the Linlithgow’s news by Linlithgow’s people BLACK bitch LINLITHGOW COMMUNITY MAGAZINE ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021

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PAGE 4 LOWPORT CENTRE WHAT NEXT?

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Linlithgow Distillery Competition, Police Scotland, Burgh Beautiful, Local Arts Review, PLUS Lisa Nettleton Book Review, Bruce Jamieson - Artist JMW Turner visits Linlithgow

See our website to download a pdf of this magazine: www.linlithgowcommunitymagazine.co.uk Magazine Subscription Linlithgow Street Trees New Hopetoun Gardens Why subscribe? Yes there will be more A fragrant Summer 3 14 trees on our high street 22 in the Garden Linlithgow 4 Community Council The Wynds and Burgh Linlithgow Police News Town Planning Issues Mills House Scams & Frauds, 16 Laurie Alexander 23 Calling all Parents, One Linlithgow Bogus Callers Interviews with members The Young Team Neighbourhood Watch contents 6 of the business community, by Graeme Armstrong Digital Market 17 Reviewed by Lisa Nettleton The Arts “Writing & Reading” Burgh Beautiful: Peter 24 Local Arts news Common’s Flower Bed Litter Picking in and events 8 Local resident care of Linlithgow Amy Cornock shrubs and herbaceous 18 looks for more volunteers beds to ‘Keep Linlithgow Tidy’ Linlithgow Dental and Clinic 26 New practice and The artist Turner and Ancient relics found in new services - meet 10 a visit to Linlithgow museum... It’s not what the team A history by 19 your thinking Bruce Jamieson Paul Rolfe cghcreative.co.uk www. & production: design Bitch magazine Black Property market on ‘Dipping’ around the The music man, 28 the move Avon Amy Cornock and 20 Gary Clinton 12 the joys of wild swimming Promoting the great work of students, helps us to Skin Happy learn guitar and checks Introduces new services, The Linlithgow out some new releases. 29 products and online 13 and District consultations Allotment Society Gordon Wallace 10th Anniversary a.k.a. Kirk Gates, Westport Vets reflections by Paul Taylor 21 remembered for his love Meet Benny Reynolds, of poetry and song 31 Cocker Spaniel

A few volunteers from the Committee also gave up some of their time to clean COMMUNITY up the 3G facility at the Leisure Centre and put up some new nets ready for the FOOTBALL CLUB new season. We are delighted to see the 3G look at its best ready for the full return to playing at some point in the RETURNS TO TRAINING near future. Linlithgow Rose Community Football It’s been great to see our coaches also Club returned to training in late March continue with their own coaching having fun and just letting the kids play following a near 4 month absence from development attending online with minimal instruction or coaching playing football. It’s great to be back, qualifications being run by the SFA. from the coaches – easier said than done! albeit some of our older age-groups Our club continues to go from strength We have also been working with the have had to wait a little bit longer to to strength despite lockdown, with SFA as one of a few clubs in Scotland return to contact training. Through the return of the Linlithgow Rose the SFA, we have implemented all trialling an updated online PVG Community Football Club Ladies (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) process of the guidance including a one way team. Interest in the team has been system, Covid officers for each team to ensure we could continue to welcome significant and the newly formed new coaches without falling foul of any and a cleaning process to ensure team recently had their first training all equipment is cleaned after each session on the 3G in preparation for social distancing guidance. session. the competitive season starting. We remain hopeful that a return to We’ve not been quiet during lockdown. games will follow soon, but in the Many teams have continued to keep all We are delighted to see the Walking Football team train on the 3G and with meantime, we’d like to thank the players occupied with charity quizzes parents and players for their patience and online fitness challenges just to Linlithgow Rose FC also training there during the week, the 3G really feels like and our partners at Xcite for all they ensure we kept the broad sense of the centre of football in the town. have done to help with the return. community alive and well. One of our teams raised £500 for the The younger age groups continue to Alistair Paton Doddie Weir foundation and for a focus on having fun with small-sided LINLITHGOW ROSE Mental Health charity. games and the emphasis being on COMMUNITY FOOTBALL CLUB

NEXT ISSUE COPY DEADLINE CONTACT THE EDITOR 19 MAY 2021 [email protected]

2 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021

DAVID TAIT, EDITOR Subscribe to 4 EASY SUBSCRIPTION the Black Bitch PAYMENT OPTIONS Magazine SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS In our previous issue we touched across West Lothian of the decisions stone by stone – 225 years ago - on the precarious position at Low to be made for Springfield. from a location on the High Street Port Centre. This time John Kelly to become Burgh Mills House at of Linlithgow Community Council Still on the subject of trees, Phase 1 Linlithgow Bridge. picks up the story going into more of the project to increase the number detail following increased interest of trees on the High Street has been These are just some of the highlights in its future. broadly welcomed by the community. from this Issue but there are lots Burgh Beautiful have submitted an more to enjoy all celebrating the Hopefully good progress is being article explaining the ups and downs impressive range of talents and made now for the future of the of the project so far and answering interests of the people of Linlithgow. Centre but its past is an interesting some concerns in relation to the story too. Low Port Centre, a planting and maintenance of the To finish, I’d like to thank again all dedicated outdoor pursuits centre new trees to ensure no repeat of the our subscribers and in particular opened in 1987. Built by Lothian “shelterbelt” issues while adding a all the new ones since last time. Regional Council, it had been welcome uplift to the town centre. Your contributions are vital now promoted by Mel Gray who was also to our aim of encouraging readers a main driver in the campaign to Meantime, tentative signs of recovery to take an active interest in their reopen the Union Canal. Initially from the pandemic can be seen in a home town. There are countless managed by a committee of local number of indicators. Most obviously opportunities to take part in or residents, ownership of Low Port perhaps in the very significant drop support the activities of the very transferred to West Lothian Council in infection rates. With continued large number of groups that make in 1997. John’s article on page 4 close observance of the rules a huge contribution to quality brings the story up to date and perhaps we are through the worst of life in Linlithgow. All sorts of provides some interesting insights and can hope for a return to the new opportunities present themselves and perhaps some lessons for the normal in the short term. from helping those who need help future. to encouraging young and old to Another good indicator of the return keep fit and healthy, both physically The second part of the Community of confidence is the property market. and mentally. Council article also deals with an As reported in this issue the first issue with origins in roughly the quarter of the year has shown a Please think about subscribing to same time period - the 1970/80s. promising rise in the supply side the magazine if you haven’t done At the time Linlithgow was to match unfulfilled demand for so already. Every contribution of growing rapidly with the residential properties. whatever amount helps us to grow development in what is now the New businesses continue to defy and improve too. Springfield area. A shelterbelt of trees the gloom and invest for the future And one final, final point we was planted around the southern looking forward to when visitors offer condolences to the family of perimeter of the estate ostensibly as a will return and the usual wide range protective barrier between homes and of events can be organised in and Gordon Wallace a.k.a. Kirk Gates, railway line. At the time West Lothian around the town. our contributor, who passed away District Council would have been unexpectedly in early March. the relevant Authority but much of On heritage we are delighted to have Murdie Kennedy who collaborated the record of proceedings was lost on Bruce Jamieson’s commemoration with Gordon in the 80s pays tribute the transfer to West Lothian Council of the visit made to Linlithgow in on page 21. in 1996. The new Authority adopted 1801 by the then “promising young ongoing maintenance obligations on painter” JMW Turner. Bruce includes Murdie includes a poem written inadequately defined terms in 1996 in his article a selection of the by Gordon based on Linlithgow with the result that residents became sketches Turner had made on his street and place names. As always, increasingly concerned as trees one day visit to the town. Also on ingenious, quirky and with a great outgrew their location. With ongoing heritage Laurie Alexander produces sense of fun. cost reduction measures the question a fascinating and thoroughly now is who pays for maintenance? researched piece on changes in the The article on Page 5 sets out the High Street over time – not least the detail and potential knock-on effect relocation of a complete building

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VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SUBSCRIBE AND CONTRIBUTE TO SUPPORT FOR YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 3 COMMUNITY TACKLING TWO MAJOR COMMUNITY ISSUES LINLITHGOW COMMUNITY COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS THE ISSUES

Low Port Centre - what next? Low Port Centre was conceived as a purpose-built outdoor pursuits centre, promoted by Mel Gray, constructed by Lothian Regional Council, and /// opened in 1987. Low Port Centre was initially managed by a dedicated committee of local residents to provide outdoor education facilities for young people locally, and from all parts of Scotland and indeed overseas. The centre provided catered residential accommodation for up to 36 people. It contains a games hall, an indoor climbing wall, lounge, general purpose room and café. Water sports on Linlithgow Loch and climbing at nearby crags and quarries were popular, with many courses run during school holidays. West Lothian Council adopted the ownership and the running of the centre in 1997.

In 2017 West Lothian Leisure took on the tenancy of Low On 23rd February 2021, responding to a Facebook leak Port Centre from West Lothian Council and continued to of West Lothian Leisure’s intentions to close Low Port Centre, provide a more limited offering of outdoor education. Linlithgow and Linlithgow Bridge Community Council On 1st January 2020 the residential wing was closed and included a discussion of the future of Low Port Centre at its the centre became a day centre. In late February 2021, monthly online public meeting. Representatives of Lochside West Lothian Leisure announced their plans to give up Playgroup spoke of their concern at the sudden closing. their tenancy (which should run until March 2022) to vacate Councillor Tom Conn stated that if a group wished to take the site and provide outdoor learning and activities from forward an asset transfer then West Lothian Council had other locations in West Lothian. information on the condition of the building and running costs which would be freely available. At the March monthly online public meeting of the Community Council, Heather Begarnie, Community Development Manager for St John’s Church and Manager of the New Well, introduced the aspirations of St John’s Church and the New Well to consolidate and expand its activities in new premises. Heather is currently at an early stage of discussions with West Lothian Council to consider the feasibility of using the Low Port Centre and the possibility of a Community Asset Transfer. St John’s Church and the New Well are keen to consult with local organisations to determine the most beneficial ways to partner across organisations to share space and join up services and activities. They envisage any space being multiuse, supporting the local community whilst also meeting the needs of St John’s church members. Heather emphasised their enthusiasm to talk with any individuals and/or organisations who are interested in being part of the conversation about the future of Low Port Centre. The Community Council fully supports the proposal for a Community Asset Transfer with St John’s Church being the lead partner and overall manager of the Low Port Centre.

Linlithgow Community Council Linlithgow and Linlithgow Bridge Community Council hold a public meeting each month to discuss matters of interest to residents. Previous articles in the Black Bitch have described town planning matters on which a community council has a statutory right to be consulted. This article describes two other recently discussed matters which are of importance to the community.

4 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021 COMMUNITY Springfield Trees - Who Pays? Public Space - Private Cost?

A pilot for future management of public open space in West Lothian The Community Council has a number of concerns: Four times a year our three West Lothian Council >> West Lothian Council are embarked on a programme of councillors meet with West Lothian Council officers cost cutting, and all services are currently being examined to to discuss matters specifically concerning Linlithgow determine whether West Lothian Council has a legal obligation Ward, at a meeting called the Local Area Committee. to provide particular services. The days of providing a service In common with all Community Councils in West to the community because it has always been provided are Lothian our Community Council has recently been unfortunately over. granted a seat at the table to ask questions of officers >> Ownership of public open space in Springfield remains /// and to make comments. with the developer, Wimpey Homes (now Taylor Wimpey), On 2nd March 2021, Wilcon Homes Scotland Ltd (possibly now Taylor Wimpey), a paper was presented Beazer Homes (now Persimmon) and Avonside Homes at the Local Area (current status unknown). The current ownership has been Committee regarding confused by the ending of the Feudal System of land ownership the ownership and on 28th November 2004. responsibility for public >> During the 1980’s developers were required to plant tree landscaped open space belts at the perimeter of their housing development. These in Springfield generally, had little to do with reducing wind speed and more to do with distinguishing between camouflaging the housing estate from afar. The choice of grass, shrubbery, and forestry species was often inappropriate bearing in mind the trees. In the paper, West closeness of planting and proximity to housing. Lothian Council state that having concluded a review >> West Lothian District Council acted as quasi-owner during of council records for its stewardship of the Springfield estate which ended in 1997, Springfield, it has been maintaining and planting trees and shrubs on land it did established that West not own without consultation. The quality of landscape Lothian Council is maintenance was generally high; a factor not replicated in maintaining land and recent years. assets that it doesn’t have >> West Lothian Council has intimated that it will be seeking responsibility for, and that legal advice which implies a measure of legal interpretation. West Lothian Council If the position were legally clear, then there would be no need needs to consider the for legal advice. council wide options for ongoing maintenance of >> Clearly a public meeting cannot be held so it is likely that the Springfield estate selected residents will receive a letter from West Lothian and other residential Council asking for sight of their title deeds to ascertain the developments within West extent to which the deeds convey a joint responsibility on Lothian adopted under residents of Springfield. similar circumstances. >> Maintenance of public open space must happen, the Further investigation of question is how and by whom – individual residents, residents council records by West in groups, formal residents’ associations, factors appointed by Lothian Council officers residents, West Lothian Council acting on behalf of residents? has determined that some maintenance agreements have been made with varying conditions. These details were presented to The Community Council has made an offer to West Lothian a West Lothian Council Council officers to undertake a consultation of the Springfield meeting on 30 March 2021 at which it was stated that to better residents but would need to discuss the questions to be asked. understand the complexity of the issue and to ensure that all If anyone receives a communication from West Lothian historical records are considered, the council will engage with Council on this subject the Community Council would be Springfield residents before considering options for future interested to know the nature of the communication. Whatever maintenance of the estate or determining a final position. happens in Springfield will have an impact on 49 other estates

and 94 tree shelter belts across West Lothian. The consultation with residents is to take place during April/May 2021. If the resulting review results in a proposal If you are interested in contributing to the debate on the issues for service changes then these changes will be presented described above or indeed wish to join in the work of the for approval by the council executive probably in the community council please email john Kelly, the secretary, autumn of 2021. at [email protected]

John Kelly

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ONE LINLITHGOW BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Martin said that Aran, which was Gaelic for bread, had around a half-way split between sandwiches and bagels. They were not just offering “token” vegetarian and vegan options, but had a choice of up to 10 between the two, as well as gluten-free products. They could also make up sandwiches or bagels to meet special requests. “Our guiding principle is high quality homemade food, locally sourced as much as possible. We make /// everything - from roasting our own chicken to making all our sauces, chutneys and cakes.” Martin said they had some “brilliant” suppliers, including Puddledub Farm in Fife for high-welfare bacon and ham, Unorthodox Coffee in Kilsyth for single-farm coffee from Brazil, and Clarks Foods in Penicuik for high quality cheeses. He continued, “We also aim to be sustainable - we don’t use any single-use packaging for takeaways. All our coffee cups/lids, food packaging and cutlery is recyclable or compostable, and we only sell drinks in glass bottles or cans. Only one-quarter of our waste Aran goes to landfill, and we use 100% electricity from renewable sources.” It may have only opened recently, but Aran Sandwich and Coffee has already established a reputation for the Added Martin, “We can’t wait to open as a café, offer a quality of its fare - and the unusual breadth of its wider menu and have people inside. But overall we’ve vegetarian and vegan offerings. really enjoyed operating as a takeaway, and have been blown away by the support and feedback we’ve had!” In a prime location at Linlithgow Cross in the former Truly Scrumptious wedding cake supplier (now at Braehead), Martin Pickersgill is well placed to cater for both visitors and locals, and is delighted to be joining the town’s burgeoning café culture. Martin spent a number of years in banking in Leeds after training and working as a chef, and long harboured a dream to return to the profession. He was transferred to Edinburgh a few years ago, and met his wife Laura from Falkirk, who was working with the same bank. When they were both made redundant, they looked for suitable premises to establish a café, and were delighted when the spacious premises in the heart of Linlithgow became available. Said Martin, “We have three young boys, Seth, six, Noah, three, and Zack, who’s almost one. We always wanted to open up somewhere that kids are properly catered for. We have a small play area downstairs, with simple, healthy food for children, and board games, a train set, toy kitchen, and pens, paper and a chalkboard.”

6 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021 DIGITAL MARKETS One Linlithgow’s online Easter Market went down LINLITHGOW’S a treat! GRAND REOPENING It was the fifth such market hosted on the town website mylinlithgow.com, in collaboration with Linlithgow Community Development Trust, and saw the usual excellent variety of products and services on offer, with a distinctive Easter twist. All told, over 50 sellers (both established local businesses and local crafters) have made an additional £7,000 since the inaugural Christmas online market, offering a choice of over 1,000 unique goodies. The Crannog Café was a particular favourite at Easter, whose afternoon teas, Mars crispy nests, and Mini Egg stuffed truffles were runaway successes. Owner Shonagh Brown said: “I was surprised but delighted to be the top seller at the Easter market! The online markets are great for keeping local businesses going. They’ve been well-organised and it’s been a welcome bit of extra All going well, Scotland is on course for a reopening of trade. The Crannog is too small for us to cater for non-essential retail, with gyms, bars and close-contact properly ‘distanced’ walk-in customers, but we can’t businesses to follow soon after. wait to welcome our customers back in person over the coming weeks.” This time, we sincerely hope it’s permanent, and to keep it that way, we must continue observing the usual preventative measures against the virus. To that end, One Linlithgow will be continuing to supply unlimited sanitiser and masks to businesses across town, including new “Linlithgow Loves Local”-branded antimicrobial pens, reusable masks and refillable personal sanitiser bottles with belt clips. We’re also preparing some brand-new lamppost banners, encouraging locals and visitors to use Linlithgow businesses and advertising the fantastic events in the Linlithgow calendar when they resume later in the year. The summer months will see a 2021-22 update of the Linlithgow Visitor Guide, too, and we’re looking forward to getting on with the real-life events, tourism focus and networking activities from the original Business Plan as soon as we can. At time of writing, proposals are for shops, and close- contact services like nail salons, as well as indoor gyms and pubs with outdoor areas, to reopen on 26th April. Following the markets’ success, One Linlithgow has Restrictions will still apply, such as numbers of people been looking into a more permanent online shopping in shops at one time, and contact details taken by portal for Linlithgow businesses to use. There are a close-contact businesses, so please be patient and few options to explore, so watch this space! There will remember that the independent businesses you’re certainly be another online market in June, with further visiting really appreciate your support. details to follow. By June 2021, it’s hoped that virtually all events and We’re also investigating options for a localised gift businesses, both private and commercial, will be card. We’re expecting an announcement from Scottish allowed with minimal restrictions, marking a return Government in the coming weeks about financial – almost – to normal. Fingers and toes crossed, then, support towards doing that, but we’ve done as much that everyone remains vigilant and observes advised background work as we can before the announcement, measures, so we can continue on this positive path so will be ready to take full advantage as soon as the back to unhindered living in our beloved town. terms are announced. See you there! You can keep informed by following One Linlithgow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. If you’re a business in Linlithgow, you should already be on our direct mailing list, but if not, just ask to be added by sending an email to [email protected].

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SUBSCRIBE AND CONTRIBUTE TO SUPPORT FOR YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 7 The Story of Peter Common’s much-loved Flower Bed

In 2007, in response to a request “It didn’t need much attention, from local residents, Burgh it was on my doorstep and half an hour here and there kept it up to Beautiful created a bed of scratch, but it could stretch to a shrubs and herbaceous plants couple of hours before you knew it. in ground dug for them by People stopped to chat, ask advice the West Lothian Council NETS and admire the garden but sadly no one really wanted to help or Land and Countryside Services take over from me.” team. Two founding members, The bed was looking particularly Liz Burrows and Kirsty Leonard colourful for Keep Scotland were involved in the design Beautiful’s Judging Day in which included a patch of August 2014. culinary herbs for residents’ use. The bed was maintained by local residents, led by a retired professional gardener - Peter Common - and hence the name which has stuck.

At the outset of the garden project Peter had said he would work at it “for as long as I am able” and he did so faithfully until he moved house. Was he sad to leave the garden, I asked. “Yes, I was, but not to leave the berberis behind!“ he quipped with a twinkle in his eye. (Berberis is Why would a retired man take on a colourful shrub but has very such a project you might ask? prickly stems.) Well, Peter Common was raised “I hope the bed will be kept up. It’s in the hamlet of Arniston near ready for a change of style. Maybe Newtongrange, Midlothian where a rowan tree, some azaleas and his father was the gardener. On miniature rhododendrons would leaving school at 14 Peter became make a lovely display.” apprenticed to the nearby Arniston Estate and moved there to live in a When Peter moved, the bed although Bothy with three other apprentices still colourful, began to look under the direction of the head overgrown. Regular grass cutting gardener. After the apprenticeship by Alan Agnew helped improve the aged 19, Peter joined the RAF and overall appearance. Volunteers cut a year after being demobbed, he back and planted annuals but it was moved to work at The Craigs where a shadow of Peter’s days. there were plans to develop a market garden. On retiring from this position the bed at the West Port was a gift, right on his doorstep. Kirsty and Peter recall the support given by NETS and Jim Saunders of West Lothian Council in creating the bed. Peter remembers Burgh Beautiful bringing plants and him setting to work. Asked how much time it took up

illustration: www.cloudburstkingdom.co.uk Summers Evonne Peter said,

8 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021 COMMUNITY Knee, Hip, Lower Back Problems ///

Following guidelines from College of Podiatry the clinic is open to patients with Emergencies or in pain and discomfort. Full safety measures in place. For appointment please call 07596954189. Thank you for all your support.

More recently the bed has been given a radical clearout with pruning and removal of the sharp thorned berberis bushes under the watchful eye of Peter himself. Gifts of an evergreen azalea and skimmia shrubs take their place! Thanks to Ricky Kerr of Champfleurie for donating woodchip mulch and to the hard work of Kian and Sally as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Community Challenge, the bed is ready for some more planting and new volunteers to LIKE US ON give that TLC. Inspiring Everyday Wear So, is there someone, or a couple, or a family out there who would give care and attention to this well loved bed? Visit our website WWW.QWORTH.CO.UK Burgh Beautiful would love to hear from you and would offer help and encouragement on an ongoing basis. Please contact [email protected] if interested.

Dianne Lamont Burgh Beautiful Linlithgow Footwear. Clothing. Accessories Burgh Beautiful Linlithgow is part of Linlithgow Burgh Trust. 207 High Street Linlithgow Linlithgow Burgh Trust is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation – Scottish Charity Number SC047211 tel. 01506 238850 e: [email protected]

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SUBSCRIBE AND CONTRIBUTE TO SUPPORT FOR YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 9 HISTORY /// The general acclaim for the work, and other exhibited TURNER IN paintings, saw him elected as a full Royal Academician and LINLITHGOW he duly opened a gallery in Bruce Jamieson Harley Street, London. Turner used his sketches of Linlithgow on several occasions, notably when, in 1807, he produced a black chalk and what were later to be called his “Scottish pencils”. He large oil painting (3 feet X 4 spent all day in the burgh before feet) clearly showing the Palace, returning by horse drawn gig St Michael’s and, to the right, into Edinburgh. While in town, he the tower and pointed steeple of sketched many details of the Palace and of St Michael’s Church and, on a the 17th century Burgh Halls. walk around the loch, quickly drafted However, in order to give several views from different angles. One result was an atmospheric his work a “classical” feel, he drawing showing what he called included an imagined copse of “The melancholy but noble Palace trees and three naked bathers of Linlithgow.” with another, semi-clad figure sitting on a sandy shore. The painting is now on display in the Walker Gallery in Liverpool.

Beneath the crescent moon, is that royal residence - its ruined state the product of the fire which had engulfed the building fifty-five years earlier. To the left, is the medieval stone crown atop the Church of St Michael – one of only four in Scotland, the others being in Edinburgh (St Giles), Perth (Trinity Church) and Aberdeen (King’s College). Below: Turner’s painting Joseph Mallord William Turner (His of Linlithgow Palace. friends and family called him ‘Bill’) It can now be bought on a facemask!

The ancient stone crown of St Michael’s Church was removed 200 years ago last year and one of the last people to see that 400-year-old structure was the artist J M W Turner.

In the year 1801, at the age of 26, the promising, young painter, J M W Turner visited Linlithgow for the first time. He had just been made an associate of the Royal Academy and arrived, looking for inspiration, complete with pocket sketchbook,

10 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021 of the town’s main employment – Using his artist’s eye, he would boot and shoemaking, a trade which have seen the countryside in the was recovering from the economic process of changing from small depression which followed the scale, strip farming, called runrig, Napoleonic War and was employing into larger fields, enclosed by hedges well over 200 locals who worked from and fields. Few sheep grazed the 6-00am until 6-00pm? pasture in those days, but beef and dairy cattle were gradually being It is interesting to speculate who selectively bred. The Rev. Andrew Turner might have met in Linlithgow Bell of St Michael’s, writing some 20 during the 1820 visit. Although he cut years later, commented that, “The a somewhat unprepossessing figure mongrel race of nondescripts (cows) (the 45-year-old artist was described are all but extinct.” Turner would by an observer as “a funny, little, undoubtedly have passed other traffic elderly gentleman”) he was a famous on the road - mostly farm carts pulled painter whom many wanted to by Clydesdales, while the Edinburgh Turner returned to Scotland in meet. Did he perhaps get welcomed to Stirling Fly was pulled by four 1820, commissioned by the newly by the Provost, the lawyer John horses. A new stagecoach service had knighted Sir Walter Scott, to Boyd, a man who was constantly just started in 1820 – the Soho, owned record Scottish views for a volume complaining about the dilapidated by J Croall and Co. It left Sawyers called “Provincial Antiquities state Linlithgow Palace was in?. Did Inn in Port Street, Stirling and, via he come across the minister of St Linlithgow, arrived 4 ½ hours later in of Scotland”. Michael’s, the Rev James Dobie, who Princes Street, Edinburgh. Fares cost Again, in this view, some imagination was equally concerned about the 8 shillings for an inside seat and has come in – in the form of a condition of his church? Well, I can 5 shillings to sit on the roof. theatrical “Scottish” foreground with use my imagination too! a kilted fisherman and a dramatic, mountainous setting – Cockleroy is Turner would have headed back to not that striking! A poignant footnote Edinburgh, past the site where St to Turner’s visit and the resulting Magdalene’s Distillery would be set painting is that the condition of St up some 14 years later. He may have Michael’s stone crown had been the noticed the construction work going subject of much anguished debate on along the Union Canal. The project regarding its precarious condition. had started some two years before The year after Turner sketched the his visit, but the waterway didn’t open crown, it was decided that it was until 1822. He would have paid his dangerous and that unless it was toll at the St Magdalene’s Turnpike removed, the whole church tower and travelled for some miles along a would collapse. Consequently, two well-kept, if unmetalled, road before hundred years ago, in the summer of hitting the less well-maintained 1821, the stonework was dismantled, public road whose upkeep depended An Edinburgh to Linlithgow and St Michael’s would have no on Statute Labour – where the local coach – bought and restored crowning glory for 143 years. farmers were obliged by law to by an American collector. spend so many days a year working How much time Turner spent in on the byway. Linlithgow is not known. Had he the opportunity to look at some of the Turner did return to Scotland buildings in the only occupied street which stretched for a mile alongside A steel engraving by Augustus in 1831, staying for a time with the Loch? Did he spot how many Callcott shows St Michael’s stone Sir Walter Scott at Abbotsford, dwellings were showing signs of age crown. The unfinished Union after which he began an and decayed grandeur? Was he aware Canal is on the left. exhausting, two-month tour to sketch scenes for some of Scott’s works. He argued that he did not need to revisit Linlithgow as he had already compiled enough sketches of the burgh. The closest he got was when he caught a ferry at South Queensferry and sailed up the Forth to Stirling, sketching as he went places such as Blackness, Bo’ness and Grangemouth. And he was right – he left us with some memorable views of Linlithgow’s bygone age.

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tropical 7 degrees. I’m relieved I’m wearing a wetsuit brave some but swimmers choose swim to in just their swimsuits ‘skins.’ or heart My thuds as the I enter water and I take a deep breath as the coldness covers I feel like body. my a task I’m doing ‘I’mon a Celebrity Get Out Me of Here!’ as mind my repeats ‘happy place, place’ happy doesn’t who but a freshlove challenge?Within a few seconds I’m amazed quickly how at I’ve acclimatised the to temperature. I feel the the of heat sun face my on and the calmness the of water and, Amy Cornock at theat risk sounding of clichéd, with feelI can’t one but at help nature. During lockdown I’ve been trying practiseto meditation in be to order beingin but the present in moment the open water is the best form of mindfulness I’ve across. come As the I come of out water my skin feels tingly and I feel more energised than I have done in time. a long As camping on my I sit chair sipping my peppermint tea I feel a sense of achievement and am pleased that I’ve found a new hobby and made new friends too. WLD is in talks with Forth Rivers potentially to Trust build a pontoon, bench and bin the at lagoon which would benefitnot only swimmers the but wider community too. Hopefully bythe Summer there will be even more activity down at this beautiful spot for everyone to enjoy post-lockdown.

a deep breath the coldness as covers body. my I feel a Celebrity on ‘I’m doing a task like I’m My heartMy I enter as thuds the water I take and place, happy place’ but who doesn’t love a fresh doesn’t who but place’ place, happy and a date in the diary is challenge? Within a few Within amazed at secondschallenge? I’m Get Me of Out Here!’ mind repeats my as ‘happy how quickly I’ve acclimatised quickly how to the temperature. WLD has system a buddy in place with quiz a and a raffle. There’s also been new welcome to a newbies night faces and answer to questions for are who people considering taking the extremely plunge. It’s important to highlight that even though wild swimming is fun and has many physical and mental benefits you have be to aware the of potential mustdangers. respect the You water inyou’re and be aware owns who of it. Just because there’s a body water of doesn’t mean should it be swum in. Doing your research is key and WLD shares up-to-date information on different swim. places to water The Lagoon theat Avon has been tested andby SEPA is deemed safe swim to in. as swimming matter no solo, how experienced a swimmer are, you set before I lose nerve. my After a brief spree shopping Amazon on I’m all kitted and out ready dip to my toes in the albeit water, with thermal swimming socks the on. I’m told water temperature is a mild today, is not advisable. I get with buddied up the lovely Dot Jamieson

. She

I contact one of the I contact of one set this up group over a

West LothianWest Dippers (WLD)

Victoria year in attract ago to order other wild swimmers. Christeen explained it’s necessarilynot the about swimming aspect, the about more it’s sense of community which the group brings. hasThere certainly been a surge in interest during the lockdown and the group stands approximately at 500 Lothianmembers West for which of there are around 50 regular dippers at Lagoon. a very It’s the Avon inclusive group and are people welcomed allof ages, shapes and sizes which is refreshing in a sport nowadays. membersSome just a leisurely enjoy dip while others may be training events everyonefor but, either way, enjoys getting together. Obviously lockdown has restricted large groups meeting and social events taking with but place the power Zoom of not everything’s a standstill. to come Within the last month there has been an online social and charity night Facebook page.Facebook how do I get involved? After a quick online browse I come across founding members, Christeen It’s theIt’s middle January, of it’s 2 degrees, blowing it’s a hoolie… is as preposterous as sounds? it On closer inspection I see that these pink shapes are tow floats being dragged along by swimmers. and the I may be water. overdue an eye test and slightly delirious from months lockdown of surely but flamingos in a lagoon in Scotland My memoriesMy the were of Avon walks with the dog along the river with the shrill sounds JCB of machines digging the up quarry for gravel. 20 years on I stumble across the lagoon while Avon a run. out It’s truewhat you they don’t know say, what’s right on your doorstep. I spot something pink bobbing in

BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRILBLACK BITCH 2021 ‘DIPPING’ AROUND AVON THE ‘DIPPING’

COMMUNITY /// 12 OAKWELL ALLOTMENT 10TH ANNIVERSARY COMMUNITY

found out during our first storm in December 2011! The official opening of Oakwell allotments was on Saturday 27 August 2011. Lesley Watson from New Hopetoun Gardens cut the ribbon on the gate, and others present included Fiona Hyslop MSP and the three

Councillors Tom Conn, Martyn Day /// and Tom Kerr, as well as a happy band of plot holders. There were many people involved in making Oakwell happen. Supporters included the Scottish Allotment and Garden Society, funders Climate Challenge Fund and LEADER, Alan Brown and other members of Transition Linlithgow, LADAS Committee members, Lesley and Chris Nock, Ken Ralston for drawing up the plans, our local Councillors, land use of the proposed site from and many others along the way. agricultural to allotments was granted in February 2011, with some conditions. A tremendous amount of time and effort was put into finding a suitable LADAS were lucky to obtain half site for the allotments, obtaining of the required funding through the necessary funding, overcoming Transition Linlithgow from the many obstacles along the way. Kirsty Climate Challenge Fund (CCF). Leonard and Mel Evans (formerly This is Scottish funding which is McEwan) deserve special thanks made available for projects such as for staying the course for the three ours because growing your own food years it took to get from the desire promotes a healthy lifestyle, reduces for allotments to the reality of a new energy consumption in production site. Having an active Committee, It is now ten years since and transport and contributes to volunteers for site management and a Oakwell allotments near greater general sustainability. community of dedicated plot holders We secured matching funds from Philpstoun were established. have all proved essential over the last LEADER, which provides EU monies 10 years to help make Oakwell the In normal times we would be for rural development in Scotland thriving allotment that it is today. planning to have some sort via the Scotland Rural Development of gathering to celebrate this Programme. We were extremely milestone; we still hope to do fortunate to achieve construction If you are interested in having a plot, work within the conflicting pressures please contact us on our website on this, probably outdoors, later of funding deadlines and planning https://linlithgowallotments.org.uk in the year. permission deadlines of the funders. and ask to be added to the waiting list. In 2008 The Linlithgow and District Lesley Nock from Oakwell Children’s Allotment Society (LADAS) was Nursery gave us our first five-year Paul Taylor formed to campaign for new allotment lease on Sunday 3 April 2011 and Chair, Linlithgow and District sites in and around Linlithgow. Many work started the following day on the Allotment Society potential sites were considered, mainly Oakwell site. Plot holders were finally on West Lothian Council owned land, able to get digging on 1st May 2011. but none were found to be appropriate for fruit and vegetable growing or were We were not allowed most of the huts unsuitable in other ways. until the hedge had been planted (Oct 2011), so the first year there were very Frustrated by not being able to secure few structures. Watering was an issue, a site, in December 2009 LADAS wrote as without huts we could not have butts, to local landowners suggesting they and water pipes were not connected might consider hosting allotments and until around March 2012. A rabbit-proof received a positive reply from Oakwell fence (later found to be too low) was Children’s Nursery at Philpstoun. erected. We had not realised how windy Planning permission to change the Oakwell would be – something we

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SUBSCRIBE AND CONTRIBUTE TO SUPPORT FOR YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 13 PLANNING LINLITHGOW STREET TREES CONSULTATION AND CONTRACT Available on request from [email protected] Planting Information: ///

Yes, there will be more Street Trees Of those who made comments on These were significantly higher than in Linlithgow although sadly not as Facebook, the concerns were broadly expected, resulting in a reduction in many as we would have liked. Costs similar to those which had been the number of trees deemed possible. have escalated since the original received on-line. New plantings will include two new proposal was put forward by the Comments covered such aspects as: fastigiate Hornbeams outside the Partnership Building, two to the east of small Environment Working Group Could the money be used elsewhere? Would more trees spoil or enhance the the Serpentine bed in front of the shops of Burgh Beautiful away back in and four at the Health Centre. Depending August 2019! High Street? What about congestion and reduction of parking spaces? on contingencies, there may be scope to As many readers know, the bid to the Environmental considerations; choice, use the balance of funds for replacement Scottish Government’s Town Centre location and maintenance of trees; trees at West Port or at the Regent Fund was submitted by Linlithgow Burgh potential damage to pavements and the Centre. Trust, to be managed by West Lothian long-term future of the High Street. Averil Stewart, project leader, sees this Council. DWA Landscape Architects These were all much appreciated and going some way to enhancing the town were appointed as consultants in late reflected the thinking of the initiators of and should be looked on as Phase 1. November. The draft proposal identified the project and those carrying it forward. While trees along the south side, east 27 trees showing potential location, There was shared concern about the of the Cross would have had the biggest choice of tree and nature of the tree potential costs especially in getting the impact they will have to be funded from pits necessary. tree pits right. some future Town Centre grant (or Consultation similar) once West Lothian Council has Andy McLatchie, of consultants DWA consulted upon and decided on the future Through a variety of media, the public Landscape Architects explained: “There of this temporary area. Also, this would was invited to respond to an on-line are different types of pits as seen in the leave the more controversial area questionnaire with completion by drawing. To do the job properly they of the High Street to Phase 2! 14 February. The data, comments are not cheap and short-cutting can and overall reaction to the tree lead to disappointments. Depending planting proposals were subsequently on the location, whether soft ground The deadline of 31 March has been categorised. A seven page report, with like a raised bed or into the pavement, met and the contract placed with tables and an Appendix, produced as underground root spaces and watering Landscapes and Contracts Ltd. evidence of the process, and guide in systems are necessary to allow healthy making recommendations, is available trees to grow and flourish.” So, YES there will be some more street trees. on request. [email protected] Ron Smith, convenor of Burgh Beautiful There was a very encouraging response to said: “The planning team is well aware Averil Stewart the questionnaire. John Aitken, treasurer that proper tree pits will often cost several Group Leader/Project Manager, for Linlithgow Burgh Trust, reported: times that of the actual trees chosen. Linlithgow Street Trees and Vennel “Of the 197 received on-line, 88% of However, it is disappointing to learn just Improvements Committee, respondents were in favour of the overall how expensive it turns out to be.” Linlithgow Burgh Trust proposals or in favour with reservations, Contract and only 12% of respondents were Linlithgow Burgh Trust is a Scottish opposed to the project.” Out of seven potential contractors Charitable Incorporated Organisation – who had expressed interest in the Scottish Charity Number SC047211 project, only two submitted bids.

14 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021 COMMUNITY /// BUSINESS ///

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VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SUBSCRIBE AND CONTRIBUTE TO SUPPORT FOR YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 15 COMMUNITY THE WYNDS AND BURGH MILLS HOUSE The burgesses were using the plot as a first floor house was entered from Today there are four wynds on the shortcut to their tailrigs on the hillside the new wynd. south side of the High Street, but which overlooked the town. This was originally there was only one. It was where they grew cereals and tended their known as the Easter Wynd (later livestock. In 1602 the council decided that renamed St Michael’s Wynd) and it the ruinous plot could officially be used was on the access road to the town for access; thereafter it became known from the south. The wynd led up to as the Wester Wynd. In a minute dated a port in the wall and this can be 15 November 1794, the council referred to a site for a new wynd as ‘lying betwixt

/// seen (right freground) in John Slezer’s ‘Prospect of Linlithgow’ the Duck Burn, opposite to the Mussel shown below. Stone’ which may have been a standing stone on the north side of the street. The next image shows the same view At this time burgesses had plots This became the New Well Wynd and on which a photograph of the house that (rigs) outside the south town wall, opened in 1795. The former West Wynd, was removed and rebuilt as Burgh Mills which was convenient for those on no longer the west-most, then took the House has been super-imposed. This is the south side of the street, as their name of the Dog Well Wynd. The next how the site would have appeared prior plots had a gate in the town wall. wynd to be opened was in 1803 at the to demolition. However, it was different for those Lion Well (council minute 26.3.1803) and on the north side of the street; their this completed the complement of wynds only access to their rigs outside the on the south side of the street. wall was via the Easter Wynd and its port. How additional wynds were The decision to create a new wynd at the formed in order to improve access New Well (built c.1690) was influenced by to the back of the town is examined the fact that the council needed to rebuild the miller’s house at the Burgh Mills, in below, and the connection with the Linlithgow Bridge. It was in a poor state Burgh Mills is explained. of repair, so wouldn’t it make sense to replace it with the house that was being demolished to form the new wynd. The minute of a council meeting held on It is incredible to think that, 225 years 11.7.1795 confirms that plans had been ago, a house was simply transported to a made to demolish the house in the town new site at Linlithgow Bridge. All of the and rebuild it on the mill site. The minute materials were reused in the construction gives the house dimensions as ‘Thirty of the new mill house (even the old Nine feet in length by Sixteen in breadth’ timber stair survives). Imagine how many which would be a ‘proper House for the cartloads of materials would have been Tacksman’. This was the internal size required to move the roof structure and of the house, and agrees with what was its finish, the stone for the walls and the built. The work was to be done per an windows. Gibb would have numbered estimate provided by John Gibb, mason, the stones of the window surrounds and in accordance with a plan that had been made drawings that could be referred to laid before the council. The only wynd to exist prior to the early in the re-building. 17th century was the Easter Wynd, or We can now examine what is known St Michael’s Wynd as it later became about the site, beginning with the known. This was the main route south following extract which comes from the from the town, which explains its burgh roods for 1687. The plot number importance. At the top of the wynd there is 34, which is the two rood wide house was a Port [gateway], which survived that was demolished to create the New until 1771. Unless you happened to have Well Wynd. a private gate through the rear wall of the burgh, you had to exit the town to 33. Wm Bill now as Jas Bill (merchant) the south via this Easter Wynd and its Rood 1 / Half Rood 1 / Quarter Rood 0 port. Some other route to the land south 34. John Peibles, maltman of the burgh was much needed. When Rood 2 / Half Rood 0 / Quarter Rood 0 a burgess plot at the Dog Well on the south side of the street fell into ruin, it 35. WJohn Hioggen (merchant) was not long before it was being used as Rood 2 / Half Rood 0 / Quarter Rood 0 a shortcut to the road that ran along the south boundary of the town, outside the The earliest photograph (c.1946) of these town wall. This road was known formerly buildings is shown top right. The ‘gable- as The South Vennel and later, more on’ building on the right was built to form Laurie Alexander commonly, as The Back of the Town. the west side of the wynd - note that the

16 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021 the streets of North Lanarkshire, “The Young Team” projects THE a narrative that is strong, descriptive and reflective of the YOUNG logic of a life lived surrounded by violence, drugs and gangs. TEAM Armstrong’s words are raw and unfiltered – not for the GRAEME ARMSTRONG faint-hearted - and his skill as a writer is captured in the authenticity of the first-person dialogue of the novel. This novel is often bittersweet and never shies away from capturing the harsh realities, ironies and juxtapositions of this life. In many ways Azzy is a symbol of a broken, post-industrial system where poverty is high and life chances are few and far between. Azzy has a clear sense of community identity, loyalty to his family and upholds strong moral values for himself and others in his team. He is a unique, well-defined lead character for the novel and, as he matures, it is interesting to follow his inner reflections as he struggles with his changing identity, relationships from his past and burgeoning knowledge of life beyond his hometown. “Slag the way A speak, make a Graeme Armstrong is a social presumption n judge me. fledgling Scottish writer from Judge ma family, ma prospects, Airdrie who spent his teenage ma financial status n ma years caught within the gang intelligence. Yi know wit they culture of North Lanarkshire. say aboot assumption.” Where life is lived for the It is documented that Armstrong thrills of the moment, a self- has overcome his own struggles perpetuating ‘do or die’ ethos with addiction and alcohol abuse, abounds and where duty adapting to leave behind a life lived in the shadow of gang and honour to one’s friends violence. Armstrong himself is the epitome of valour. defied expectations and studied Armstrong’s debut novel English as an undergraduate “The Young Team” is a at Stirling University before product of this life; a gritty returning to complete a masters in Creative Writing. reflection of the characters, situations and culture of In many ways “The Young Team” his youth. feels like the story of his life. It is the story of a life lived through The story unfolds through the adverse circumstances, making eyes of the main character Alan the best of choices available in ‘Azzy’ Williams who, as the novel the moment although often with opens, is a spunky fourteen-year- bleak, destructive outcomes old emerging as ringleader of and tragic consequences. It is his own up-and-coming ‘young a story of friendship, loyalty, team’ posse at the start of the brotherhood and love, with new millennium. They meet humour found in the unlikeliest covertly in the ruined ‘mansion’ of places, set against a hard grounds drinking, listening to backdrop for real life. “The music and plotting ways to gain Young Team” is an authentic, the upper hand over rival gangs interesting social commentary from neighboring housing estates. for those misaligned and Already with an abundance of underrepresented in society, street smarts, it seems Azzy has ultimately leading us towards Personal, considered, been watching and learning from the path of redemption and his elders for years, waiting for reinvention with hopes comprehensive his moment to enter the fray. for the future. “Yir main man. Alan Williams. Azzy, A git called. Rangers daft. You are our client, not your money YT legend in the makin.” Lisa Nettleton Lisa Nettleton is a 01506 200580 Written in the vernacular and teacher and enjoys evocative of the fast paced, reading on her www.morrisonpwm.com spoken Scottish heard by daily rail commute [email protected] Armstrong as he grew up on into Edinburgh

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SUBSCRIBE AND CONTRIBUTE TO SUPPORT FOR YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 17 PICKING OUR WAY THROUGH THE TOWN The rotating jaws of my yellow and haven’t been able to take place within the beautiful again, it is not addressing the black litter picker unearth a Monster last year so it’s been more important than root cause of the issue. WLLP Education Munch packet from beyond its ever for individual members to try and and Awareness Group was recently set grave which, judging by its expiry do their bit whenever they can. Beecraigs up with the aim to develop and deliver an date, is almost as old as I am. We Country Park is one of the areas that educational presentation around the classify this as ‘historic rubbish’ has seen a huge increase in visitors in importance of waste management. The which somehow doesn’t make me recent months and as a result there’s target audience will initially be all school feel any younger. Lying next to it is a unfortunately been more litter left there. ages from primary to secondary. faded Snickers wrapper which, from There’s a rubbish bin and a dog waste bin The more volunteers that can get the name alone, I realise can’t be at the top of Preston Road which walkers involved the better to spread the quite as ancient. As I fill the last of may not be aware of. message. As the sign says along my clear bag and leave the woods WLLP is awaiting a new order of litter the High Street we all have a duty next to Linlithgow Leisure Centre picking equipment from West Lothian to ‘Keep Linlithgow Tidy.’ I share a socially distanced high Council in April. The group provides new five in the air with my litter picking members with a litter picker, a hoop for partner, who’s also my friend that Amy Cornock the bin bag and a hi-vis vest with WLLP introduced me to the group, logo on it. A requirement for litter Lesley Williamson. picking is to use clear bags which, after your pick, you leave by a rubbish bin. You then send a quick email to the Council who will collect them within a few days. Clear bags can be collected from New Well Wynd Community Garden or you can contact one of WLLP admin team to get a batch.

Due to the lockdown there are currently only six Council workers collecting litter in the whole of West Lothian highlighting the need for citizens to help out where we can. You can join WLLP Facebook group for more details of how to get involved. Litter picking doesn’t only help keep the area tidy but it also helps local wildlife. There have been too many occasions where field mice have drowned after West Lothian Litter Pickers (WLLP) was being caught in plastic and sheep founded two years ago by Jason Wilcox have ingested tiny pieces of plastic from Bathgate. Having worked in in the grass. So far this year 221 Germany, Jason was inspired by the bags have been collected by recycling system there and made a pact Linlithgow members of WLLP but to improve his local area on his return. unfortunately there’s still a long Jason had been organising litter picks way to go. for a few years prior but after noticing the UK-wide litter pickers group, as well as regional ones on Facebook, he decided to As a newbie to the group I was keen to start one for West Lothian. WLLP started get involved to make a difference but off with five helpers including himself, I never expected litter picking to be so his wife and some neighbours and much fun. Once you start it becomes gradually interest increased through rather addictive and you end up wanting word of mouth. Local businesses donated to pick up litter anytime you see it. I’m in order for WLLP to get equipment and pleased to say I’ve never been a litterbug funding was given from the National but now I’ve definitely caught the litter Lottery Community Fund. Its slogan ‘Act bug. I look forward to the day we can Local, Think Global’ is very much the meet in organised groups and can ethos of this group. combine cleaning the local environment with a good old blether. It gives you a Prior to the lockdown organised litter great sense of wellbeing when people picks were a great way to bring together walk by thanking you for your hard work. members of the local community and make a group effort to improve the It has sadly become apparent that whilst environment. Sadly these gatherings litter picking is helping our community pull together to make Linlithgow look

18 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021 COMMUNITY /// ANCIENT RELICS FOUND IN MUSEUM... It’s not what your thinking to present some long read articles by Bruce Jamieson, Thom Pollock, Norman Dowie and Bob McMillan. These can still be found on our Facebook and website. We also had a storytelling advent calendar on Facebook in December with a new, slightly creepy, Christmas tale being released each week from storyteller Gillian Paterson. The work on social media is mostly done by volunteers and we are always looking named Nespautitawy. The name dates for interesting things to post about the the pieces to between 1186 and 945 BC, town and about more general heritage and intriguingly, there are coffins in topics. We hope that people find things on Vienna that belong to someone with the the page that inspire them to have a read same name. It would be hard to say if it is and to visit us when we reopen. the same person though. Thanks to this We have been trying to make the research, we can now confidently say that most of our website. Our communities’ these pieces form the smallest officially coordinator, Julia, put together a great recognised collection of authentic virtual Doors Open Day last September. Egyptian antiquities in Scotland – We also launched a digital exhibition another unique feather in our museum’s about that well known Linlithgow son, cap! Come along and see them when the Scotty from Star Trek. If you haven’t museum reopens. visited the website then check it out at We have missed everyone and we hope www.linlithgowmuseum.org to be open again soon so please keep In our last article we launched our an eye on our social media and website “Linlithgow in Lockdown” collecting for details. Thank you to everyone who project. We asked people in the town to has supported us during this year with contribute any photos, written memories donations, items for the collection, or recordings of living here during this engaging with the social media posts unprecedented period. We’ve had a good or attending the talks. It’s been greatly appreciated. Hello from Linlithgow Museum. response to this collecting and when We wanted to pop into this issue we can get back into the building, we Alison Train Trustee and give a little update about what will make sure we’ve been up to during this time we are recording of closure. The museum has now everything for the sadly been closed for a full year. future residents The Board and staff have continued of the town. The to meet virtually once a month and collection is ongoing we have been working hard to make and if you would sure we can reopen safely when the like to contribute, time comes. We have really missed please email: being in the building, meeting visitors forthefuture@ and running events but some of our linlithgowmuseum. activities have kept going. So here’s org an update. During 2020, we We ran a talks series on Zoom from discovered a lot September till April. This was a more about two of completely new world for us but it’s been the items in our BLACK BITCH brilliantly positive and really fun. We had collection. They logins from all over Scotland, the rest of are funerary figures BLACK BITCH BEER GARDEN. the UK and as far afield as Australia and called shabtis, Canada which is exciting. We have tried made to accompany Offering an ideal setting for outdoor hospitality from to put on a varied programme, mixing the deceased to Monday 26th April from 11am-9pm. Sunday’s 12.30pm-9pm. local topics and broader themes. If you the after-life, and We welcome groups of up to four people from two households would like to view the talks, you can while they were to participate in alcoholic and nonalcoholic refreshments. We receive any of the links for a donation of originally thought will comply fully with government legislation and restrictions £3 to the museum. For more info email: to be modern copies, which will be advertised accordingly. We will be operating a [email protected] they have now been ‘first come first served’ policy and we will do our best to accommodate. confirmed to be The available talks are: “Saints Alive” by genuine Egyptian BLACK BITCH MERCHANDISE Gillian Paterson, “Heritage of the Union antiquities over Polo shirts,badges and whisky miniatures all branded Canal at Redding” by Danny Callaghan, 3,000 years old. with the Black Bitch logo - Ideal for a special gift. “Plague and Pestilence: A History of Excitingly, thanks SKY & BT SPORTS Pandemics in Linlithgow” by Bruce to research by Dr Dedicated to bringing you the best live sporting action. Jamieson, “The Battle of Nechtansmere, Dan Potter of the Come relax, watch and enjoy with us. Non-alcoholic 685AD” by Eve Boyle and “Scotland’s National Museums drinks only - served indoors from 11am- 8pm Cinemas on Screen” by Gordon Barr. of Scotland, we actually know who We’ve tried to keep active on our social the shabtis were TEL. 01506 842147 media channels and we were delighted 14 West Port, Linlithgow EH49 7AZ made for - a person

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SUBSCRIBE AND CONTRIBUTE TO SUPPORT FOR YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 19 Page 1/1 - - 1 E 3 2 - 1 2 1 D - - - The Troggs - 3

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Page 1/1 # $ # ! B B B B D # $ # ! B B B B L Now use a plectrum D Begin to loosen the up D Q Before trying the excerpt, ! # # # ! = 110 B B B B B A h ! # # # ! B B B B B A D Rock 4 4 c : 1 Gary’s TipsGary’s represents ‘Tea’ Pattern: Strumming one beat and ‘Coffee’ splits the (Co-fe) beat in 2. Think ‘We of Will Rock You’ by Queen and clap the drum beat: ‘TEA TEA CO-FE Next TEA’. we need to ‘rest’ on the ‘CO’ part like this: TEA ‘TEA (CO)-FE TEA’. and practice strumming the chord using ‘downstrokes’. progression TEA’. (CO)-FE TEA ‘TEA strumming and subtle muting on top the of basic rhythm, alternating pattern strumming your and some apply energy and excitement. A A D D TEA’. (CO)-FE TEA ‘TEA E E D D Beginner: firstly fret eachof the 3 chords and strum each one 4 times using downstrokes focusing on where your fingers are, and where they are going to be next. Keep fingers pointy. Intermediate: right hand and include more Learn Gary With Guitar Thismonth we are moving chords onto and anyone for who has been using it, check lesson out 2 and 3 from my free Lessons’ Guitar Beginner ‘Complete channel. are We playlist my YouTube on going to try ‘Wild Thing’ by Troggs The which uses 3 major chords: A, D and E. New Releases The ODD’: Magic‘STAY Of Everyday Things’ by Stanley Odd (Handsome Records.)Trap Intelligent Scottish Edinburgh from hailing hip-hop featuring insightful lyrics from Scottish Alternative Music Award winner Dave Hook AKA Solareye. ‘WL’ by The Snuts (Parlophone) These young Lothian West lads are poised to take over the in world a raucous and angsty fashion with their raw guitar driven indie rock. - - 1 E 3 2 - 1 2 1 D - - - The Troggs - 3 2 A 1 - - Wild Thing Wild # $ # ! B B B B D # $ # ! B B B B L D D Q Her pitch perfect, soothing and times at Celtic tones gave me goosebumps when I listened to her covering ‘Can’t Help Falling In Love’ by Elvis Presley on channel and what is alsoher YouTube impressive is her versatility. Emma manages to beautifullyinterpret ‘Weird!’ by – a very Yungblud different vocal and musical style – yet her own musical identity is consistent over both. In herlessons Emma has recently learned ‘Isn’t She Lovely’ by Stevie Wonder as I wanted to her to try something she wouldn’t normally contains plus it a the of lot new ‘seventh’ chord shapes Emma has been mastering. needed We to transpose the key to suit Emma’s vocal range and I asked her not to just ‘cover’ the piece her put but own musical mark by it changingon the underlying rhythm and attempting to re-invent slightly it as a soft ballad. Perhaps the of one most exciting things about Emma is she is far from the finished article. She startedon out ukulele and has aspirations to maybe one day be in a band and I plan to help Emma increase her ‘chord vocabulary’ as in my opinion, too many established singer- songwriters just use the same boring old first position chords. Whilst a song is much more than the chords that are used, the ability to include more musical interest and ‘colour’ can only be a good thing and when I hear artists using these musical tools, draws it me in. It will be interesting to see if any Black Bitch readers can pick on up this harmonic colour when Emma posts the song on channel ‘Emmaher YouTube Sophia’. (There will be a clickable link on my social media and Black Bitch website). https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCSjUCoekye8qjkaPBh6AZoA

! ! " # # ! E B B B B B B

! ! " # # ! B B B B B B E D # $ # ! B B B B D (15), # $ # ! B B B B L D D Q ! # # # ! = 110 B B B B B A h ! # # # ! B B B B B A D Rock 4 4 c : 1

BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRILBLACK BITCH 2021 who stays in Linlithgow, could be the next Amy MacDonald, Katie Melua or Adele. Not only does Emma have a very versatile left hand allowing her to clearly execute new and more challenging chord shapes she is an incredible vocal talent. Student Diaries Student Talking beauty of in music, this month I am featuring a S4 LinlithgowAcademy student with a stunning voice and guitar skills that have exponentially increased since she began lessons with me in August 2019. Emma Crawford ‘As The‘As Love Continues’ is a beautifully constructed record containing heartfelt piano melodies, ethereal synthesisers, 80s inspired synth drum loops and their trademark mountainous guitar driven soundscapes that build from simplicity andto epic immersive musical pictures. sadnessThe that has always been prevalent in their music has struck a chord in a nation who are themselves feeling reflective andnostalgic as we yearn our for lives old back. If you like this album, why not whizz back to 1999 and listen to ‘Nick Drake’ from their 2nd studio album ‘Come It’s On Die Young’. a masterpiece in beautiful guitar melody and what I often try to teach my students who compose music… ‘space’. In a nutshell - no. been It’s the worst public health disaster since the 2nd however War lastWorld March CO2 omissions were down 17%; between April and June 2020 UK households saved a whopping 29.1% their of disposable income (£54.6billion) and last month Scottish post-rock legendsMogwai made to numberit 1 in the UK album charts for the first time in their 25 year career. At theAt time writing of over 31.5 million in people the UK have received their firstCOVID-19 vaccination andwhilst still it’s too ourselves consider to early near the the of end pandemic, did get it thinking,me has there been any good things that of have out come lockdowns and the ‘new normal’?

MUSIC TUTOR CLINTON, GARY

20 Twitter: @GaryGuitar4 Facebook: garyclintonguitartutor Facebook: @GaryGuitar4 Twitter: MUSIC /// media social through business tuition Gary’s with date to up keep can You Hailing originally from Springburn in After a civil engineering contract brought POETRY & VERSE /// TRIBUTE TO Glasgow, Gordon was a Grammar School Gordon back to Scotland to live, he GORDON WALLACE boy, but left school at 15 to become an obtained a teaching post at Glasgow apprentice painter and decorator. He College of Building and Printing. He We were very saddened to hear in recent moved to London during the ‘Swinging moved to Linlithgow in 1976. weeks of the passing of Gordon Wallace, Sixties’. He had a fierce desire for self- I first knew him and Mary-Louise in the development and while working on who wrote regularly for the magazine early 1980s, when we were all involved in building sites during the day, he studied under the name “Kirk Gates”. setting up a Linlithgow branch of CND. in the evenings, eventually doing a degree I was aware of his reputation as a writer His sudden and unprepared-for death in civil engineering. came at a time when he was enjoying and contributor to the Scotsman and other life, refurbishing his home, recovering As his intellectual confidence developed, publications. In 1986, I approached him from eye surgery, dealing with lockdown, he became involved in radical Marxist to ask if he would like to be involved in a writing and looking forward to a happy politics and Trade Union activity and it collection of local writing I was helping new year. was in these circles that he met Mary- to put together. The result was Streetwise Louise Coulouris, an art student from Boy, which you can see below. It makes Gordon was a very private person and a privileged background, who decided clever use of local placenames to tell an didn’t feel easy with showing signs of that politics and activism attracted her. engaging story. vulnerability or weakness. He never let They married in 1971 and were only Gordon had told his family that he was anyone know the seriousness of the health parted by her death in 2012. At this time, really enjoying writing for the Black Bitch risks that affected him, nor did he perhaps they built lasting friendships and links Magazine and we would like to fully appreciate their danger himself. with a wide range of people, including reproduce his wonderful poem His family is comforted by the fact that creative individuals in the Primrose Hill as a fitting tribute to him. he died suddenly after a normal, peaceful area where they had settled and had two day at home. children, Saro and Duncan. Murdoch Kennedy

STREETWISE He took a west port at So ower the flints, whaur But aye his mind forbid beinn castle in the oatlands dark entry BOY Withstaunin whitten auld Lassies went, their Tae onie provost thochts (to wee Jock’s Hill … folk’s vennel looks braeheids fu o ploys o sleeping soon and a’body like him) And joukin dogwell Tae tanners-court the And carmelaws he oan the pavement lads…but aye kingscavil whispered in the blackness He huntburn by the At onie priory thochts “Linlithgow’s sic a He cycled waldie doon o cockleroi. bonnytoun…” the High Street entry tae the deuk’s. As gleg as onie laverock A stop for sweeties…. He sped the longcroft tae Gordon Wallace ower the peel chewy maltings the station His wee legs justinhaugh (the sort that lennox-up As fast as onie engine (Reproduced with kind the pedals yer jaws) oan the line permission from the His nether parkley And some o yon whit gied But, man, tae see him booklet LITHCA LORE riccarton wi zeal. his granny deanburn springfield up the union TWO – published 1986) Whit were they cawed noo? Ye’d think he motored doon “Noo mind the Rockville”, Oh aye……deacons’ baws! the auld M9! mither tellt him Illustration: “And nae listloanin Then tae the loch sae Then hame at last aw Sandra Gibson roun the cross royal-like and douglas boghall-black and Ashley sgibsonillustration@ And don’t come hame aw Aw rivaldsgreen and Tae meet the carseknowe- gmail.com burghmuir an’ bormie acredales o space glare in mither’s eye Or, jings, yer belsyde will He gied his bike its And monie a beecraigs- be merker wi the tawse!” parkheid tae the fiddlers look she stang him Like onie black bitch He didnae need tae ask But, och, his burgess tae telford why. eyes were avon doited wi the race. As moray a barkhill He doocot up and doon She biled the kettilstoun whoop gied he the drumlins for supper “Preston! Preston!” wis Till baith his cheeks ran And made him eggs spread aw that he could haver strawberry wi sweat oot oan friar’s bread …..his Kirkgate-hert wis And near forgot the warnin Then efter watching telly at high port, ye see. mither gave him wi his granny “By Goad… ye’ll end up in He highfield up the stairs the water yet!” and intae bed.

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PLANNING FOR A FRAGRANT SUMMER IN THE GARDEN

to attract pollinating insects not us, we just benefit from this wonder of nature! Border pinks (Dianthus) have a wonderful spicy scent, reminding both of us of our grandmother’s gardens. Again they demand a sunny position but are a little less fussy about drainage and they will spread 300mm (12”) across making an evergreen mound; they are short lived but easily replaced either by taking cuttings or buying a new young plant!

Perhaps your garden is full of lovely ‘smell-me’s’ already so you might want to top up your scents with a few annual plants. Scatter seeds of Night Scented Stocks which will pump out an early evening fragrance in the ost plants smell to some extent but there are many summer. The white Alyssum bedding plant has a generous honey Mthat we call ’smell-me’ plants. These are ones whose fragrance and many of the Lilies have wonderful oriental spicy fragrance is carried on the air with the most fragrant wafting notes to delight your senses! their fragrance into the air so we can enjoy it without having to bend down to the flowers or rubbing the leaves to release the fragrant oils. Why not add some of these ‘smell-me’s’ to Dougal Philip your garden to bring the delights of fragrance to your patio and Lesley Watson for the long summer days we are all craving? New Hopetoun Gardens Here are four permanent perennial plants that will perform for several years... Lavender is an absolute classic and we have found that all gardeners love blue flowers with fragrance. There are many different varieties to choose from, some more reliable than others so long as you plant them in a really sunny spot that is well drained. Look for the varieties Hidcote, Munstead and Vera which we have in our own garden. so much more There are lots of perennial wallfowers, Erysimum, in many than just a different colours to tempt you. The best known is Erysimum garden centre Bowles Mauve that starts flowering now and goes on for www.newhopetoungardens.co.uk many weeks. It also needs a sunny spot and is generally shorter lived than the lavenders as it probably flowers itself to death in the end! It grows to about 450mm by 450mm across (18” x 18”) and like the lavenders, makes a rounded evergreen bush.

Catmints are long lived perennials that die down in the winter and grow again every year. They flower in early summer and then again in mid-summer. They come in various sizes, this one is Nepeta Walkers Low (450mm FRAGRANT GARDEN x 450mm) and is very PICK UP YOUR FREE COPY popular with pollinating OF OUR LEAFLET ABOUT FRAGRANT GARDEN insects. After all the PLANTS NEXT TIME YOU VISIT US. fragrance has evolved

22 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021 COMMUNITY /// LINLITHGOW POLICE NEWS Constables Andrew Murray and Peter Robertson are the community Police officers based at in Linlithgow Police station, which is now located within the newly refurbished Tam Dalyell House at Linlithgow Partnership Centre, High Street, Linlithgow. They are keen to get involved in local community issues and want to hear your views and opinions on these issues. We will be publishing an article in the magazine every month, covering ongoing community issues which we are keen to address within the ward. There is also a public assistance desk at the station, which is open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. Unfortunately due to the Covid Pandemic the Linlithgow Community Police Surgery has been suspended. NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH SCOTLAND This system allows users to receive alerts from Neighbourhood Watch and Police CALLING ALL PARENTS Scotland. The idea being that if there has been a recent crime trend, then officers Over the past couple of months there The police would encourage parents in from Police Scotland can send an alert have been numerous complaints Linlithgow to have an open discussion to all users who may be affected or who from local residents in various areas of with their teenage children, as to may have an interest in the crime. Linlithgow regarding large groups of where they are going and what they youths congregating. are doing when out with friends in the >> Crime Trends – recent crimes evenings and check the contents of that have occurred in their area, Unfortunately some of these groups their rucksacks. housebreakings etc. have been involved in the consumption of alcohol, drugs, setting fires, littering, Also make them aware of the current >> Missing Persons – Details of High Risk damaging property and other anti- Covid Government Guideline in missing persons can be broadcast social behaviour. relation to gatherings. to specific areas. Police and other partners are aware Their reckless behaviour is putting We require the public of these issues and will be conducting themselves, friends and family to register online. You patrols in the area. members in danger. can register at www. This behaviour is having a negative Active parenting skills are required, neighbourhood impact on the local communities and to challenge and check on their watchscotland.co.uk there are also concerns regarding the children’s whereabouts and encourage personal safety of those involved in young people to make good decisions, this conduct. focusing on keeping young people BOGUS CALLERS and communities safe. / WORKMEN IN LINLITHGOW AREA “Rogue traders” usually cold call, claiming to be workers offering to make ONLINE SCAMS AND FRAUD repairs or carry out work on your house, garden or driveway. They will charge over Over the past couple of months SO WHEN ONLINE BEFORE YOU inflated prices for work that is often of reports of online scams and fraud poor quality or completely unnecessary. MAKE ANY DECISIONS OR If you feel threatened, unsafe or have been on the increase. These INVESTMENTS… TAKE FIVE suspicious of a caller then contact are becoming more and more police immediately. sophisticated. Here are a few examples STOP >> Courier Fraud Taking a moment to stop and think >> Identity fraud before parting with your money or TO CONTACT information could keep you safe. >> Online shopping and auction THE POLICE... sites >> Romance and dating fraud 101 101 is the new number to contact CHALLENGE the police when it’s less urgent than 999. >> Ticketing fraud Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject or ignore any requests. Only Alternatively you can email >> Scam mail criminals will try to rush or panic westlothiancommunityeast@ scotland.pnn.police.uk or through >> Computer software service you. Contact us Service Fraud Banking and Card Fraud Your Local Community

TAKE FIVE is a national campaign PROTECT Police – Linlithgow that offers straightforward Contact your bank Website: www.scotland.police.uk and impartial advice to help immediately if you Twitter: @policescotland everyone protect themselves think you’ve fallen Facebook: from preventable financial fraud. for a scam and www.facebook.com/policescotland This can be found on the Police report it. Hopefully when we are through Scotland website. the pandemic the Linlithgow Community Police Surgeries will MY MONEY? MY INFO? I DON’T THINK SO! resume. We shall keep you posted .

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“WRITING AND READING – THE THE ART OF COMMUNICATION” ARTS Pat Swan [email protected].

I have often admired the Art of the Engrosser’s Script course, which is an Calligraphy, and have a friend who early 20th century pointed pen style. She produces amazing birthday cards believes she is the only person in the UK and other papery things with her with this qualification and is keen to put inky skills. She has inspired me to it into practice. play with ink and to try to use a pen Ceri also draws, mainly with pencil and nib, but it’s not as easy as it and charcoal in black and grey. often looks. She’s a busy lady! I was therefore pleased when Ceri from If you are interested in what she can Panda Scribes Calligraphy contacted offer, Ceri is on Facebook and Instagram me to ask if I’d like to feature her on the as Panda Scribes, her website is www. Arts page. She lives locally and loves pandascribes.co.uk and she is on email to relax with calligraphy after working at [email protected]. during the day. She says “calligraphy and art for me is a therapy where I can live in the moment and forget about the world around me.” Far From the Madding Crowd Wonderful news! For the second time our local bookshop has been named as Scotland’s Best Independent Bookshop! Owner Sally said “we are absolutely thrilled to have won the award again, particularly following such a challenging year. The award means we If you are looking forward to or planning are now in the running to win the overall other events, then Ceri can help with UK prize at the British Book Awards in personalising wedding and party May, and we’ve also been shortlisted invitations, save the date cards, menus for the UK Children’s Bookseller of the and place cards. Your guests will have Year in the same competition.” a handwritten memento of the event, even if it is just that first dinner party you organise after lockdown eases! If you have often wanted to write a special love letter, but you don’t like your messy handwriting, why not ask Ceri to Just as lockdown hit last year, Ceri had write the words neatly and beautifully to started running an 8-week course in the send to that special person. If you are not Old Pavilion but sadly it had to be cut good with words you could have song short. She hopes to get back to running lyrics or a quote written for a unique workshops in the future, but meantime gift. She also often adds the names to works on producing cards and other Certificates to add a personal touch. small projects for people who appreciate her fine lettering skills. Ceri is also a Scottish ambassador for The Modern Calligraphy Company. In She can be commissioned to produce a the old days when shopping was possible, She also wanted to explain that the special and unique birthday or occasion you may have seen her personalising shop has changed a lot over the past card, and what better time to surprise gift bags or candles for the likes of Jo year. You can now shop direct for lots someone you haven’t seen for months Malone or Molton Brown for Christmas of their goods and services online at with a very personal hand-made card. or Valentine’s Day. She’s looking forward www.maddingcrowdlinlithgow.com To make it even more distinctive get to such an event in the future, or even Going forward, they’ll still offer limited her to write the envelope too. Prices do teaching for them when groups are local delivery, as well as consultations vary depending on the amount of work allowed to meet. over the phone or email to make sure involved, but for example the Happy they have what you’re looking for in Birthday Alice card shown in the photo She likes to keep improving and learning, stock, or are able to order it in. here could cost as little as £4-£5. She so Ceri has been studying for more than They’ve also got a couple of new team would appreciate as much notice as two years with David Grimes to hone her members, guinea pigs Bathsheba and possible, but can generally get your calligraphy skills. “Dreaming In Script” is Gabriel, who’ll be on hand to help out card to you in 2-3 weeks, and will an online learning program that teaches with story-telling sessions as soon it’s deliver locally too. the various disciplines of traditional safe to restart. American Penmanship and calligraphy. Ceri now has a Certificate of Merit for

24 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021

In terms of events, the online collaboration as part of Wee Three Indies continues, including events with Andy Griffiths, co-creator of the hilarious Treehouse series for kids on Saturday 24th April, a really special event celebrating The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy with author and illustrator Chris Riddell on Monday 26th April, and a book launch for Sixteen Horses with debut novelist Greg Buchanan on Thursday 29th April.

Details for all of these events can be found on their website, www.maddingcrowdlinlithgow.com, or on the Wee Three Indies Facebook page. Sally finished by saying “we are so grateful for all the support our fantastic customers have shown us over the past year and we cannot wait to reopen our doors on 26th April and welcome Linlithgow’s Canal Trail everyone back properly. Nothing beats This spring, thanks to funding from Sustrans ArtRoots, an outdoor having people in the shop browsing nature trail will pop up along the towpath of Linlithgow’s Union Canal - at their leisure.” National Cycle Route 754. The route runs between the Park Bistro in the East, and the Avon Aqueduct in the West. It’s available for all to explore anytime, by foot or on wheels, and will be in place from 10th April until 9th May. The Line Gallery The trail features quotes - chosen by the people of Linlithgow via public A date for the diary - the Front Line nomination - that celebrate the joy of walking, cycling, and generally Thank You exhibition opens on spending time in the outdoors. It’s an opportunity to spend time 29th May. I expect this will be a exploring the canal as springtime arrives. Discover some new writing heartwarming collection of lockdown about the joy of the outdoors, and perhaps be reminded of some much- work, and a must see. loved nature quotes too. You’ll find extracts from classic nature writers With Galleries hopefully opening from such as John Muir and Rachel Carson, quotes from well-known the end of the month, I will soon be authors including Terry Pratchett, Sylvia Plath, J.R.R. Tolkien and able to start writing about possible Art L.M. Montgomery, and from contemporary writers like Elizabeth-Jane Outings again. Meantime you might Burnett, Lynley Dodd, Pema Monaghan and Victoria Adukwei Bulley. like to know that The Louvre has put There are thoughts from Hippocrates, Pythagoras and Albert Einstein, its entire art collection online and it’s and some from those you might not expect - such as quotes from Robin available free of charge. It’s the world’s Williams, and Doc Brown from Back to the Future! most visited museum and houses one of Readers may remember the similar trail created across Linlithgow for the most famous paintings on the planet Book Week Scotland in November 2020, which proved hugely popular - Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. If you and laid the foundations for this longer project. This time, to help need a gallery fix, visit www.louvre.fr but everyone get involved in creating - as well as exploring - the trail, 100 free be aware it could take some time to get ‘paint your own’ rock kits have been given away to people in Linlithgow. through the 482,000 exhibits! Each kit recipient will now be busy creating a nature-themed decoration for their rock, then bringing it along to join the trail for others to enjoy. If you’d like to join them, hand-drawn instructions can be downloaded Please do get in touch about from Transition Linlithgow’s website (www.transitionlinlithgow.org.uk), any events you are planning and printed at home on an ordinary printer. for the summer. This trail has been imagined and created by Kathryn Welch, delivered [email protected]. with ArtRoots funding from Sustrans Scotland, and supported by Linlithgow Community Development Trust. Thanks also to Linlithgow Library and Far From the Madding Crowd bookshop for their help in promoting QUOTE OF THE MONTH and supporting the trail. “creativity never goes We very much hope you’ll enjoy getting out out of style” and about and exploring Linlithgow’s Canal Trail this spring.

Kathryn Welch

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NEW BUSINESS /// NEW PRACTICE - NEW SERVICES Linlithgow Dental and Implant Clinic

A fast-expanding family owned in continuing to provide excellent care that the practice will continue to go Scottish dental group has taken for the people of Linlithgow and the from strength to strength.” over a Linlithgow practice surrounding areas. operated for over 25 years by Dr Friel said that the group was delighted a well-known and widely Continued Dr Murray, “After careful to be expanding into Linlithgow, and respected dentist. consideration, I have passed the clinic was fully committed to supporting the on to the Scottish Dental Care Group existing clinical team, and would do Dr Moira Murray has retired from to facilitate this ongoing care and everything possible to help the local Linlithgow Dental Care in the High progression. The dental group has grown community. Street, and transferred the practice steadily, with a fantastic management to Scottish Dental Care Group, team and structure.” “As a family-run business we understand which is led by Dr Philip Friel and the importance of maintaining the high his brother Christopher. “This has allowed the many and standards that patients have come to increasing compliance and governance know and expect, and will be introducing The Glasgow-based group, which is elements to be taken away from the new technology, equipment and continuing to expand across Scotland, dentists, giving them the time to focus treatments to further improve patients’ on what they do best - caring for and from Oban and Inverness to Dumfries, experiences at the clinic.” has retained Dr Murray’s entire team, and treating the patients under their care.” is investing in state-of-the-art equipment, This would include a new CBTC scanner Dr Murray said that Dr Friel would be as well as refurbishing the clinic. It is - being introduced to all of their clinics providing an implant service from the now named Linlithgow Dental and - whose many benefits would include Implant Clinic. clinic, and would be very much a “hands on” member of the clinical team, involved greatly improving dentists’ speed and Dr Murray told patients she had been in all aspects of the clinical operation in accuracy, and a much more pleasant and considering retirement for some time, the practice. comfortable experience for patients. and had been waiting for the right Added Dr Friel, “We thank Moira for opportunity, both for herself, and one She added, “They (SDCG) bring fresh energy, new ideas, advanced technology putting the trust in us that we will which would ensure the practice would continue to provide the very best in continue to thrive. and cutting-edge treatments to the practice. The team that I leave behind dental care for patients, and to continue Thanking them for their “fantastic are encouraged and enthused with to support the development of the team.” support” over many years, she the infrastructure, communication, acknowledged the huge responsibility in input and assistance from all of the ensuring stability for the clinical team management team, and I am confident John Smith

Dr Moira Murray centre rear with staff.

26 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021 N O I T I T E P M O C THE DOLLHOUSE

The Dolls0.50p are pleased to Collagannounceen hand treatment £5 withthat any manicur wee will reopen on the 26th April. We are so looking forward to Gel overlay infill (shellac) £30.00 (60mins) Acrylicseeing infills (Shellac) you£30.00 (75mins) all. Due to guidelines Acryliccan infills (Acrylic)we £25.00please (60mins) ask you to book your appointment using our fb overlay Gel ovpageerlay nail r epairor £4.00call per nailthe art salon and leave Acrylica removvoicemail.als (not in house) £25.00 We (45mins) will pick them up and get in touch. Shellac soak off (not in house) £10.00

77 The Vennel

LuxHighury pedicure Street,(vinylux) £30.00 (45 Linlithgow mins) LuxT.ury pedicur 01506e (shellac) £42.00 (50847 mins) 222

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Sell your home with Paul Rolfe HOUSING T 01506 828282 PAUL ROLFE W paulrolfe.co.uk MARKET COMMENTARY APRIL 2021 ///

An increase in the number of properties coming to market as lockdown restrictions begin to ease...

As at the end of March new This often leads to closing dates and offers ground source heat pump systems and instructions in the first quarter of well above home report valuations, and other low carbon heating technology. there is upward pressure on prices across 2021 out of our Linlithgow office the whole property market. Presently 62% of existing homes in are approximately 10% down Scotland are owner occupied, yet only 38% Scotland remains the fastest selling area of them have an EPC band rating of C or on the same period in 2020. in the UK, taking an average of 40 days above, and the Scottish Govt are working However we are beginning to to sell a property, compared to the UK on measures designed to see all homes see an increase in the number average of 59 days. achieve a minimum EPC band rating of C by 2040. of properties coming to market Driving Improved Energy as lockdown restrictions begin Efficiency In Residential They want all homeowners to to ease, but generally demand Homes benefit from reduced energy bills still far outstrips supply across and more efficient homes, where The Scottish Government has announced technically feasible and cost- the property market. Our that building regulations are set to be own experience mirrors what changed so that all new homes use effective to do so. To ensure that Rightmove is reporting, that is renewable or low-carbon heating from all homeowner occupied homes new listings in February 2021 2024. The plans to increase energy meet the standard in time, they efficiency and reduce carbon emissions were 20% down on February for new-build homes will run alongside we will continue to focus on 2020, but that by the first week a £30 million investment in renewable encouraging homeowners to in March this gap had heat projects. improve their energy efficiency. closed to 5%. Energy minister Paul Wheelhouse said: They have proposed that, “We will ensure that new homes and should voluntary progress not be Family Homes buildings across Scotland meet the enough, mandatory action may Family homes, in particular, are attracting challenge of the climate emergency, be required from 2030. significant increases in requests to view, combining the action we need to take with 30 or 40 viewings per property being on climate change with our ambition to not at all uncommon. This is borne out provide affordable, warm homes.” by figures from Rightmove which show that the number of enquiries received for This means that low carbon or renewable properties listed on Rightmove are 34% heating systems will need to be installed more last month than in March 2020. in new build properties from 2024, moving away from gas boilers to air or

28 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021

HEALTH ///

HOW IPL REJUVENATES > Vascular. The light targets and is EXTRAS: AND IMPROVES MOST SKIN readily absorbed by blood vessels, IPL can be combined with other in CONCERNS AND CONDITIONS. heating them to a point where they clinic treatments such as chemical are destroyed. Following treatment, peels and/or Phototherapy Skin Rejuvenation is an umbrella the vessels quickly clear as they are treatments. word used to describe the result reabsorbed by the body, leaving little > Peels can be carried out you get from skin treatments or no trace of the original lesion. Red immediately prior to treatment which restore the youthful vein removal can provide a long- or on alternate appointments to appearance of your skin. These term solution to facial problems such enhance results. (Generally great for treatments generally involve as general red flushing and Rosacea, exfoliation clearing dead skin cells controlled methods of trauma to thread veins, cherry angiomas/red and pores to allow for better light the epidermis or dermis layer of spots (blood spots), spider naevi absorption). the skin to stimulate cell renewal and port wine stains. and fibroblasts into triggering the > Phototherapy can be an add > Pigmentation. The light targets and on at the end of a treatment to increased production of collagen is absorbed by the high concentration and elastin. Treatments such as supercharge the cell production of melanin found within pigmented and reduce any downtime. lasers, lights, radio frequency, lesions. The rapid absorption of light and chemical peels etc are all energy heats the melanin and causes At Skin Happy we always start with methods of controlled trauma the destruction of the melanin-rich an in-depth consultation along with which rejuvenate the skin with cells. Flat pigmented lesions such as education that will help you to make next to no or minimal downtime. sun damage, age spots and freckles clear and informed decisions. WHAT IS IPL? can be successfully removed We help you find solutions for your skin concerns that are non-intrusive IPL is Intense Pulsed Light. creating a clearer, brighter, and and offer a more natural route to It emits wavelengths of light. more youthful appearance. aesthetics that stimulate your body’s Depending on which wavelength is > Rejuvenation. For all the signs own natural processes, improving used the light can target different of visible ageing. The light is not only the appearance of your skin (chromophores) in the skin such as absorbed into the skin. It triggers the but your confidence too. Vascular lesions (blood), Pigmented stimulation of the fibroblast cells, lesions (flat brown age spots/ leading to increased production We only choose clinically proven freckles) and hair etc. of new collagen and elastin. This and medical grade providers. improves the skin tone and texture Our Laser, IPL and Radio Frequency IPL is a quick, easy, and non- of the skin, evening out lumps provider is Lynton Lasers Ltd, a intrusive method of skin rejuvenation and bumps whilst reducing the specialist aesthetic technologies offering a variety of solutions for the appearance of lines and wrinkles. manufacturer made up of the skin which can reduce the need for WHO IS SUITABLE FOR largest team of UK-based doctors, long term oral/topical medication. scientists, and aestheticians. Lynton TREATMENT? have over 25 years-experience in Most people are suitable for WHAT SKIN CONCERNS AND pioneering medical-grade devices treatment except for very dark CONDITIONS CAN IPL IMPROVE for a broad range of cosmetic skinned or tanned individuals. AND HOW DOES IT WORK? concerns and their Laser and IPL > Acne. The light targets overactive If you are pregnant and with some Medical Grade equipment is also sebaceous glands, greatly reducing medication it is best not to undergo listed on the NHS Supply Chain. the number and severity of active IPL treatment. lesions, lessening the inflammation Pigmentation that is large, dark, Skin Happy, 42 High Street, and frequency of breakouts. The light mottled or raised cannot be treated Linlithgow Tel: 01506 888138 also stimulates the production of and may need to be checked by a www.skinhappy.co.uk new collagen to improve skin texture dermatologist. E: [email protected] and can also reduce the appearance Large, dark moles should not be SkinHappy skinhappyme of red or brown areas of skin that treated, nor should lesions covering are often associated with acne a large part of the body. breakouts.

COMING UP IN THE NEXT EDITION OF THE BLACK BITCH MAGAZINE: Full or part removal or fading down of: > Tattoos > Semi-permanent Makeup (eyebrows). > Medical Tattoos / Radiotherapy Spots We restore radiance back into your skin to help you feel confident, carefree, and skin happy. For more information and to book your consultation, visit our website.

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Being able to see and hear clearly helps keep you connected to your world and the people you love, especially during lockdown. So our stores remain open to care for all NHS and private customers, and to help relieve pressure on our partners in the NHS.

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30 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 81 APRIL 2021 This month Westport Vets Pet PETS’ of the Month is Benny Reynolds Hello I’M BENNY Benny is a 1 year old Cocker Spaniel, If, like Benny’s owner, you are looking a very loveable but cheeky dog! forward to having adventures further afield, Benny gets so excited when he sees their it is worth ensuring you are aware how to grandkids and his favourite thing to do is best keep your dog safe in new areas. to get out and play with other dogs. He is 1. Ensure your microchip details are all often found sitting under their grandson’s correct and up to date and have an ID tag highchair patiently waiting for dropped on your dog’s collar or harness. Having food. Benny is at his naughtiest when both forms of identification on your dog playing with other dogs and refusing to is a legal requirement. come back to his humans. 2. Research the area - online maps and His favourite toy is a bunch of socks used walking apps are a fantastic tool to help to play tug with his owners and he loves to highlight areas of interest such as parking play ‘ready steady go’ where they race each areas, picnic benches, public toilets. They other. Benny’s happy place is lying on the also help to identify considerations such couch, curled up on the cushion. as free grazing sheep, high risk cliff edges, steep declines and bodies of water. Benny’s owner says: 3. Check your route - the distance and “Benny was my rock during lockdown as terrain to expect, and if your dog can cope I had just lost my Dad in May after a stroke with this. For example, hill walking should 9. Sand can cause stomach problems in January. I found I couldn’t sit in the be trained for, starting with small hills and as it can compact in the stomach and house but walking on my own was not the gradually built up to ensure your cause a blockage. same as having a dog beside you. I was so companion is ‘hill fit’. 10. Seek out shade to prevent heatstroke used to having a dog but lost Dylan in 4. Be weather aware - looking out for and ensure your dogs do not overexert October 2019. We rehomed Benny as the sun UV levels, heat, storms, snow, strong themselves. little boy in his original family had winds and if any extreme weather may be 11. Consider the wildlife. Pay attention to developed allergies.” expected. Be aware of peak temperature signs for nesting birds, grazing animals, times and visibility levels expected on seals and jellyfish. the day. 12. Areas where Blue Green Algae is 5. Going to the beach - check high and low present should be avoided, if ingested this tide times to prevent any risks of becoming can lead to liver damage or failure. Call stranded. Check the beach is dog friendly. your vet immediately if you suspect your 6. If you have a dog who loves to scavenge dog has come into contact with algae. it may be worth looking for a quieter area out with peak public times. 7. Always carry plenty of water for your We are extremely lucky to have so many dog. Drinking salty water can cause beautiful places nearby to visit, it is always sickness, diarrhoea and in some make them worth planning to ensure you can enjoy seriously ill as they become very dehydrated. them the safest way. Stop them drinking from rock pools or After lockdown puddles on the beach. The Westport Team is always here to help. restrictions ease, Benny’s owner is 8. After swimming in the sea, rinse dogs For enquiries email surgery@westportvets. most looking forward to being able to go with fresh water so they do not lick salt off com. If you have any concerns about your further with Benny taking him to see the their fur. Clean their ears to prevent any pet or in an emergency call 01506 844165. beach to show him the sand and sea. infections brewing.

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