Get latest news and updates from the Chamber and its members by signing up to our newsletter owner of Anglesey-based chocolatiers Mr Holt’s is Marcus Wareing’s former head pastry chef and star of S4C’s pastry programme Yr Academi Felys (The Sweet Academy) He has run the chocolate factory and café at a former mill at Melin Llynon He has been crafting a popular Siocled – ‘chocolate ‘in Welsh – range of Welsh treats along with a unique range of Anglesey-branded donuts – nicknamed monuts A loan of £150,000 from the Development Bank of Wales £84,000 from Bathgate Business Finance’s own funding book and a further £30,000 brokered by Bathgate from a specialist funder is now enabling Richard to expand chocolate production with a newly refitted factory at nearby Llangefni New and improved machinery will allow Mr Holt’s to meet rising demand which boasts more floor-space than the former production facility at Melin Llynon will allow the business to get its chocolates out to more hungry chocoholics than ever before This is the second time the business has received support from the Development Bank following an initial loan of £30,000 in 2019 “We’ve seen so much success in the last few years and we wanted to make sure we could answer that increased demand by building up our capacity and taking on newer The new factory in Llangefni is exactly what we needed while also allowing us to keep making chocolate locally and retaining important jobs on Anglesey “We’re so pleased with the support we had from the Development Bank of Wales and co-investors Bathgate – it’s allowing us to expand our operations at exactly the right time.” his family and his team of chocolatiers have created an excellent product that is already a Welsh gifting staple and in huge demand further afield too “A great deal of creativity and imagination has gone into developing confectionery brand and the factory site into a fantastic and engaging attraction too with a chocolate factory-themed escape room and activities to attract visitors to the area too “Richard has not only developed a unique and delicious product but he has also created jobs for local people and delivered affordable luxury for his customers We wish Richard and the whole team the best of luck and we’ll certainly be tucking in to Mr Holt’s treats to celebrate!” Senior Portfolio Executive at the Development Bank of Wales “It was a pleasure to work with Richard and the team at Mr Holt’s They have a distinctive Welsh brand with a popular product and their unique chocolates get mouths watering across the UK and beyond “We’re proud to have supported them as they look to rise to new opportunities thanks to their rapidly growing profile We wish them the very best as they continue with their future plans.” The Development Bank Wales loan for Mr Holt’s came from the Wales Flexible Investment Fund It offers finance for deals between £25,000 and £10 million mezzanine finance and equity investments available The £84,000 finance from Bathgate Business Finance which hit a landmark £5 million in capital lending in March 2025 the highest in the company’s 34-year history For more information, visit www.developmentbank.wales and www.bathgatebf.co.uk For more information about Bathgate Business Finance visit bathgatebf.co.uk, call Tracey Hamilton on 07557 973196 or email tracey@bathgatebf.co.uk. Fill out our news submission form and we will review Liverpool Chamber of CommerceSuite G08-G10 Cotton Exchange Building Bixteth StreetLiverpoolL3 9LQ © Copyright 2025 Liverpool Chamber of Commerce Designed by Bolland & Lowe Cookies help us provide our services. By using this website, you accept our privacy policy  |  Accept cookies Emergency services were called to Sibbalds Brae, in Bathgate, at around 5.45am on Monday. Police were called to Sibbalds Brae in Bathgate at around 5.45am on Monday following reports of a woman having died. The death is being treated as unexplained but is not believed to be suspicious. A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 5.45am on Monday, April 21, 2025, we were made aware of the death of a woman on Sibbalds Brae, Bathgate. “The death is being treated as unexplained but not believed to be suspicious and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal in due course.” STV News is now on WhatsAppGet all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Follow STV News on WhatsAppScan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country '+scriptOptions._localizedStrings.webview_notification_text+' "+scriptOptions._localizedStrings.redirect_overlay_title+" "+scriptOptions._localizedStrings.redirect_overlay_text+" Your location helps us personalise the site for you - showing you what’s happening in your area Enter your postcode to track the status of supply in your area and learn about your pipework responsibilities Find out more about our waste water services such as; septic tanks Check here for a detailed breakdown of your water 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£675,000 project We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website You can change your cookies in your browser at any time Director of the School of Civil Engineering and Built Environment; LJMU Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Professor Mark Power; Pro-Vice-Chancellor for External Engagement and Partnerships Founder and Chairman of the Bathgate Group The Bathgate Group has pledged £250,000 to support degree apprenticeship learners at LJMU who are striving to forge successful careers in the construction industry Over the next five years, the Bathgate Early Career Launchpad Fund will boost the opportunities available for aspiring and current degree apprentices studying with the university’s School of Civil Engineering and Built Environment to bridge funding as apprentices graduate from their studies the fund will enhance the support already on offer from LJMU for degree apprentices Focused on learners from challenged groups this additional support will help to remove barriers to early career experience and broaden access to roles within the construction sector for individuals who might not otherwise be able to access them We are proud to support the Early Career Launchpad Fund at Liverpool John Moores University This initiative aligns with our joint commitment to foster opportunities for students from challenged backgrounds helping them build successful careers in construction and beyond By investing in their education and training we are investing in the future of our industry and our community also a former Chair of Governors at LJMU and Honorary Fellow Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of LJMU said: “This is a generous gift to support and invest in our students’ futures from the Bathgate Group The additional financial support will have a profound impact on our ability to create early career experiences for our construction-focused degree apprentices making a difference to the lives and career prospects of those who need it most.” Since the founding of the College of Building in 1951 the university has developed its programmes with industry to train the civil engineers designers and project managers that power the construction sector in the Liverpool City Region LJMU has been delivering degree apprenticeships since 2016 and currently offers a range of courses in the sector including building design engineering quantity surveying and construction site supervision and management earn their degree alongside practical skills developed in the workplace The Bathgate Group comprises a range of companies including Bathgate Silica Sand Bathgate Flooring and Bathgate Business Finance Each Bathgate company shares a common objective to provide customers with the highest level of trust and confidence in all of their products and services the group believe in making a positive impact on the communities it serves and all of the individual companies are committed to supporting various charitable initiatives and organisations in the local and wider areas The group has previously supported LJMU students through the Bathgate Start-up Fund and most recently the Bathgate Boost Award offering grants to students and alumni starting a business in the Liverpool City Region or North West area Immersive visits hosted throughout the year to celebrate online learners The first event to mark our heritage as the first university to present a sport science single honours degree Get in touch with the Press Office on 0151 231 3369 or © 2025 Liverpool John Moores University - All Rights Reserved Essential cookies cannot be turned off as they are key in helping you to navigate through our website and use its features These cookies collect information about your browsing habits in order to make advertising more relevant to you and your interests and measure the effectiveness of advertising campaigns These cookies capture anonymous data that helps us to understand how people are using our site These cookies allow the website to remember the choices you make and provide enhanced Learn more about our cookies A major project to refurbish the bridge carrying the B792 local road over the M8 motorway between Bathgate and Blackburn is planned to commence in spring 2025 and continue for approximately four months The works will require a variety of traffic restrictions on both the M8 and the B792 speed restrictions and overnight carriageway closures Details are expected to be confirmed mid-February after a tender competition to appoint a contractor is concluded Planned works on the structure include steelwork repairs installation of cathodic protection to increase the longevity of concrete elements BEAR Scotland’s South East Unit Bridges Manager said: “The bridge over the M8 between Bathgate and Blackburn requires extensive refurbishment works to address defects and to extend its service life so that it continues to provide safe access over the motorway for local communities “We’re currently in the final stages of appointing a contractor and expect to start mobilising for works on site to commence in spring 2025 “We’ll publish further information on the traffic restrictions that will be required as soon as details of the programme are confirmed.” Consultation has been carried out with relevant stakeholders including West Lothian Council and emergency services to make them aware of the plans in advance Live traffic information is available from Traffic Scotland at www.traffic.gov.scot or on X at @trafficscotland A MYSTERY death probe has been launched after a woman's body was found on a leafy country road Detectives made the grim discovery early this morning on Sibbalds Brae, Bathgate Enquiries are ongoing to determine the woman's cause of death A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 5.45am on Monday we were made aware of the death of a woman on Sibbalds Brae “The death is being treated as unexplained but not believed to be suspicious." A report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal in due course Emergency crews rushed to the A933 between Arbroath and Colliston yesterday after a smash involving an Isuzu pickup and a black Triumph motorcycle. Paramedics frantically battled to save the 68-year-old, however he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. The female driver of the pickup was not injured. “Our investigation to establish the full circumstances is ongoing and I would urge anyone who was in the area around the time and who may have seen the crash or have dash-cam footage to get in touch.” The road was locked down until just before 9pm last night as officers launched an urgent probe Anyone with any information is asked to call 101 In an uprelated incident, a man has been charged after a teenage girl was struck by a car in East Lothian Police said the 17-year-old was taken to hospital where her condition was described as "critical" Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click here We use cookies to make sure we give you the best experience possible. By continuing, you're accepting that you're happy with our cookie policy. Click here to find out more 0.87);-webkit-transition:box-shadow 300ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms;transition:box-shadow 300ms cubic-bezier(0.4 0.2)),url("https://d1plawd8huk6hh.cloudfront.net/assets/default400.png");-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;}This event has already happened!.css-kvjh8b{font-family:BuenosAires;font-weight:500;font-size:0.9285714285714285rem;line-height:1.75;text-transform:uppercase;min-width:64px;padding:4px 10px;border-radius:4px;-webkit-transition:background-color 250ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms,border-color 250ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms;transition:background-color 250ms cubic-bezier(0.4 0.26);box-shadow:none;background-color:rgba(0 If you're looking for an upcoming event View more events at Edinburgh Search for Kyle Falconer (The View) Saturday 24th May7:00pm - 11:00pm DreadnoughtRock, Bathgatebuy ticketsThe Sensational Alex Harvey Experience DreadnoughtRock, BathgateThe Sensational Alex Harvey Experience is the UK's #1 Tribute to Alex Harvey & his Sensational Band..css-1tyyxax{position:absolute;top:0;right:-8px;height:100%;content:"";background:linear-gradient(to right 0) 90%);pointer-events:none;}Kyle Falconer has always been a songwriter who has been inspired by a female muse From his chart-topping successwith The View through to his acclaimed solo career his storytelling songs have explored the good times of love andlust; the bad times of regret and heartache; and stories of some of the larger-than-life characters who have steppedinto his life alongside some playful fictional narratives.Recently crowned with the King Tuts’ Songwriting Award at the Scottish Music Awards Kyle brings the best of thosesongs together with ‘The One I Love The Most’ which will be released on February 7th ahead of Valentine’s Day Thealbum is a collection of songs from his vast back catalogue all of which are named after women and have been newlyreworked in acoustic form.Named after a lyric taken from The View fan favourite ‘5 Rebeccas’ ‘The One I Love The Most’ features songsspanning almost two decades: from the unrequited love of ‘Claudia’ (from the band’s #1 debut album ‘Hats Off To TheBuskers’) through to the lovelorn ‘Dixie’ (the original of which featured on last year’s Top 10 return ‘Exorcism ofYouth’).Along the way the album also reinvents highlights from his two solo albums ‘No Thank You’ and ‘No Love Songs ForLaura’ which often tackled more complicated themes: ‘Laura’ shares regrets for his past behaviour and the impact ithad on his then-partner and now-wife Laura Wilde to the issues of gender identity addressed in ‘Kelly’ A far lightermoment comes with ‘Madonna’ celeb-heavy imagining of what the ideal afterlife might be like whileManchester rapper PROSE adds his razor-sharp rhymes to an otherwise stripped-back ‘Lucy’.The album’s lead single and brand new track ‘Angelina’ is an instant highlight and will be unveiled on December 20th.Dramatic percussion and sweeping string arrangements creates an intense cinematic atmosphere to match a story of arelationship which has been ruined by conflicting perceptions on what the truth really is Please note: The event information above has been added by the organiser Whilst we try to ensure all details are up-to-date we do not make any warranty or representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information shown because we believe true fans deserve a fairer and smarter way to discover events they love.” 0.08);border-bottom-width:thin;margin-top:35px;margin-bottom:35px;border-color:#4e4e4e;margin-top:16px!important;margin-bottom:16px!important;}© 2001 - 2025 Skiddle Ltd | Skiddle is a registered trademark | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED A West Lothian town is fighting plans to pay for parking and demanded wardens be reintroduced to police streets which have become an “obstacle course”.  Just weeks after West Lothian Council unveiled proposals for new parking regulations – which includes plans to charge for parking on town streets in the county – Bathgate Community Council has launched a petition to scrap the move raising fears it could hit local businesses.  The community council said this week that the charges “betrayed” townspeople.  including maps of the streets which would be affected in the council’s DPE roll-out will soon go before the nine West Lothian Council local area committees on which councillors sit Bathgate will be among the first communities to have new parking regulations including metered on street parking which is planned to be introduced within the next three years.  But they are now calling for public support to stop the proposals – and are encouraging other local communities in West Lothian to join the fight.  This week Bathgate CC laid down three key changes it wants to see: –  A spokesperson said: “The Council’s proposed parking charges for High Street and train station parking have betrayed previous assurances and could negatively impact local shopping and public transport use.”  A report presented to West Lothian’s Environment and Sustainability PDSP outlined three options the proposed £5 daily charge at Council-owned railway stations (Linlithgow Livingston South and Uphall Station) has been criticised as it appears to contradict their Active Travel objectives of encouraging alternative transportation and reducing car dependency.   Others have pointed out that station car parks owned by Network Rail are free for train users  The spokesperson added: “The proposed parking charges prioritise revenue generation over addressing community concerns and exploring effective parking solutions The proposals also fail to consider utilising existing parking revenue Bathgate CC says any surplus revenue from fines would be allocated to Town Centre improvement schemes “This alternative model could be considered as a potential fourth option” The Joint Forum has backed Bathgate Community Council and urged all community councils in West Lothian to review the proposals and consider expressing their support.  says:  “The town that we cherish and live in is gradually turning into an obstacle course because cars are frequently parked on both double and single yellow lines against the regulations This brazen flouting of the rules makes it nearly impossible to drive through town and poses a considerable and unnecessary risk to our community’s safety.  The petition adds: “Rather than charging for car parks efforts should be directed towards enforcing penalties for illegal parking This would not only alleviate the chaos on our streets but would incentivise responsible parking and allow for better flow of traffic through our town and pay for the parking wardens we need.  We want the council to consider our option when they make the decision on parking which would keep our car park free to use.”  The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) is a public service news agency provided by the local news sector (in Edinburgh that is Reach plc (the publisher behind Edinburgh Live and The Daily Record) and used by many qualifying partners Local Democracy Reporters cover news about top-tier local authorities and other public service organisations The Edinburgh Reporter brings you news all about Edinburgh Mr Miller was last seen around 1pm on Sunday navy blue jeans and a light blue sweatshirt which has a checked collar stitched in white He is believed to be driving a black MG registration HM11 POP Inspector Josey said: “Concerns are growing for Hugh’s welfare and we want to make sure he is safe and well “He is known frequent Oban or the areas around Luss and Loch Lomond “I am asking anyone who has seen him or knows where he is to get in touch.” Anyone who can help is asked to call Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 3538 of 9 March 2025 John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme Marc Cuthbert was last seen around 5.30pm on Tuesday Officers say that he could have travelled to Perth or the West Lothian area Sergeant Richard Wilson said: “Concerns are growing for Marc’s welfare and we need to make sure he is safe and well “We would urge anyone who has seen Marc or knows where he might be to get in touch.” Emergency services are understood to be at the scene at the motorway's junction 3A heading westbound. Emergency services are understood to be at the scene at junction 3A heading west after the collision which took place after 1pm on Friday. Drivers in the area are being advised to approach with caution with the on-slip closed. Police Scotland has been contacted for comment. A MAN has died at a Scots industrial estate as cops launched a probe into the incident Mercy crews raced to the Pollock (Scotrans) site on Blackburn Road in Bathgate after the alarm was raised around 10:10am yesterday firefighters and an air ambulance were scrambled to the scene Cops confirmed a 59-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been informed A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Around 10.10am on Tuesday we received a report of a man injured at industrial premises on Blackburn Road "Enquiries are continuing, and the Health and Safety Executive has been informed." The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service added: "We were requested at 10.05am on Tuesday, 4 March to assist our emergency service partners at a commercial premises in Bathgate. "Operations Control mobilised four appliances to the town's Blackburn Road, where firefighters worked to assist their partners before leaving the area." a stalwart of the last 30 years of Peoples Ford Boghall & Bathgate Caledonia Pipe Band is today announcing that he is standing down as Pipe Major of the Grade 1 band Ross has taken this difficult decision in order to spend more time with his young family and due to the demands of his job as Senior Piping Instructor at George Watsons College with whom he won the 2024 World Pipe Band Championships in the Juvenile grade Ross said: “It has been the privilege of my life to lead the fine men and women of our band for the last 9 seasons many of whom I have been lucky enough to mentor from the very beginning of their piping journey “I’ll be forever grateful for the support I’ve received from all the playing members Grant Walker and David Burnside; Brian Gilda from our dedicated sponsor Peoples Ford without whom I wouldn’t have been able to lead the band for such a significant period of time “I leave the band in the hands of the immeasurably talented Calum Watson This is the start of an exciting new chapter under Calum and Kerr’s leadership in a position to be competitive at the top end of Grade 1 for the next decade Ross’ proudest achievement with the band will undoubtedly be lifting the Jubilee Trophy & Banner at the 2023 World Pipe Band Championships a moment that will live long in the memory for all members past and present Long standing Pipe Sergeant Calum Watson will succeed him as Pipe Major effective immediately Calum said: “I’m sure I speak for the full band when I thank Ross for his unwavering dedication over the past twenty-plus years He was the Pipe Major to finally lead the band to lifting the World Championship title after 40 years in Grade 1 and nothing will be able to rival the jubilation felt by all of us in that moment I’d like to thank Ross for the guidance he’s provided me since the beginning of my piping career It has been a privilege to serve as his pipe sergeant for the last 7 years and I’m immensely grateful for all the opportunities he’s given me “I feel incredibly fortunate to be taking over the band in its current position; the commitment and talent of the team is first rate which will greatly assist me in transitioning into the Pipe Major’s role heading into the 2025 season.” Leading Drummer Kerr McQuillan said: “I would like to thank Ross for the faith he showed in appointing me his Leading Drummer after Gordon Brown decided to retire at the end of 2022 It was clearly a huge challenge handed to me at a relatively young age when compared to most of my peers in Grade One Boghall has always enjoyed a reputation over many years for giving our youngsters exposure to the top of the pipe band tree and Ross Harvey has continued to carry that torch during his leadership we’ve collectively created some of our most special memories as a band We’ve worked extremely well together and formed a Worlds winning partnership within a short period of time I wish Ross and his family all the very best for the future “I’m really looking forward to working with Calum as we move into the 2025 season Calum and I have a very close bond and have worked closely musically over the last few years and on the Cabar Fèidh concert last year I have no doubt that this to be a seamless and transition of leadership.” The band are extremely thankful for the years of dedication that Ross has given to the band and would like to wish him and his family all the very best Bagpiping features and news from around the international piping community Contact us: news@bagpipe.news © Bagpipe News - The National Piping Centre Emergency services were called to the line between Bathgate and Airdrie at around 5.24am on Monday. Emergency services were called to a line near Bathgate station at around 5.24am after reports of a casualty on the tracks A person was taken to hospital with “life-changing” injuries Services between Bathgate and Airdrie were affected and Network Rail confirmed that disruption may continue NEW: Following the emergency services dealing with an incident between Bathgate and Airdrie, we're now able to run trains again.Disruption to services may still be ongoing until our staff and trains are back in position. pic.twitter.com/WqLqqsq9Pq A BTP spokesperson said: “Officers were called to the line near Bathgate railway station at around 5.24am on Monday following reports of a casualty on the tracks. “Paramedics also attended, and a person was taken to hospital with life-changing injuries. The incident is not being treated as suspicious.” The incident occurred around 2.40am on Tuesday at a property on Dalling Avenue in Bathgate A man wearing gloves and a balaclava broke into the home stole the car keys and drove off in the car a grey Audi S3 with the registration BB07 ALB Detective Constable Natalie Civil said: “Our enquiries are ongoing to trace the car and the person responsible and we are appealing to anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area or has any information that could assist to contact us “We would also ask anyone with dash-cam ring doorbell or CCTV footage from around the time of the theft to check their footage and get in touch if they have captured anything that could help.” Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland quoting incident number 0290 of 15 April you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 Home > News > Birthday Paw-ty time for abandoned Bathgate pups they were cruelly left for dead after being dumped in a plastic box in Bathgate took them to a local vets before they were released into the care of the Scottish SPCA Glasgow animal rescue and rehoming centre It was touch and go for the seven sausage Labrador cross pups who needed round the clock feeding which included milk every two hours through the night But thanks to the care and commitment of our staff not only were they nursed back to health they are now thriving Such is the remarkable story of their survival Matty and Sully to celebrate their first birthday one of the animal care assistants looking after the pups said: “It’s fantastic to see all the puppies playing with each other today Celebrating their first birthday is something we at the centre couldn’t have dreamed of when they first came to us “I have such a strong bond with the pups as myself and two other colleagues hand reared them – I am just so happy that not only did they survive but started to thrive “The first two weeks of life involved round the clock feeding as that’s what they would have done if there mother had been with them “Once they got to around week 3 – 4 we could introduce weaning them onto puppy food so the time between feeds extended meaning we could all actually get a bit more sleep “Hand rearing is so rewarding but is hard work But when I see the pandemonium and chaos of this party I wouldn’t change a thing – it was so worth it The puppies have all since been rehomed with Lesley and another staff member adopting a dog each Lesley says: “I named my pup Whirlwind as he rules my house and is a force of nature “He has six fur brothers and sisters ranging from a Jack Russell to a 50kg Rottweiler “But he’s absolutely no fear and will happily go and steal anybody toys He definitely has dachshund traits and loves the sound of his own voice.” who lives with children and never leaves their sides Sully who lives with two other dogs although Gus the chihuahua still rules his house one of the animal care assistants who looked after him while Mylo is the only animal in his home and is adored by his whole family Lesley says: “Rehoming Whirlwind has been a fantastic experience and has made my whole family complete I would urge anyone thinking of getting an animal to give us a call so we can give advice and look for some suitable animals that need a forever home.”   If you or someone you know can offer an animal a new home then please visit our website  Help us promote events like this by sharing this page It costs us £63,000 every day to continue the work that animals across Scotland depend on Our work is only possible because of the generosity of people like you Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a Scottish Charity: SC006467 and a Private Limited Company: SC201401 KY11 8RY "Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals" and “Scottish SPCA” are registered trademarks of the Scottish SPCA This website is copyright © Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Bathgate Band will be making a television appearance next week. The musicians will be featured on My Kind of Town which airs at 8.30pm on Thursday on BBC Scotland (and later on BBC iPlayer).The link to details of the programme which focuses on the town of Bathgate is here Email Nigel Martin: sbbapr@gmail.com Tweets by @TheSBBA The deadline for proposals to come forward for the Bathgate venue is 27 May councillors and members of West Lothian’s Integration Joint Board have been told.  The IJB heard this week that there have been two requests for additional information and viewings of the café requested The advertisement has been viewed over 31,000 times.  The campaign group Save Rosemount Café has asked the Health and Social Care Partnership to take the closure off the table and work with West Lothian council on a long-term solution.  The café in the Rosemount Gardens care complex is open six days per week but currently operates at a loss of £100,000 per year because of a lack of custom.   Local councillors who have fought the plan believe the café has been chosen as ‘low hanging fruit’ and question what effective savings would be.  The proposal would see staff relocated to other council venues After a march meeting which first tabled the closure as part of the IJB budget cuts local SNP councillors Pauline Stafford and Willie Boyle had asked: “With a no redundancy policy where do the staff go and who picks up the cost of transferring them somewhere else told this month’s meeting of the IJB: “The IJB agreed to review Rosemount café two months after 25 March 2025 with a review and update provided at the end of the first month and to agree that the facility will be closed if no viable expressions of interest have been received at the end of this period.”  He added: “The opportunity for a local community group or local business to take over the running of the café was publicised on the West Lothian Council Facebook page and at the café site prior to the meeting of IJB on 25 March 2025.   “An updated advertisement was published on 14 April 2025 noting that IJB is inviting organisations/groups interested in leasing the café at Rosemount Gardens in Bathgate to come forward.   social enterprises or voluntary organisations who would be interested in operating the café were urged to get in touch.   “There have been two requests for additional information and viewings of the café requested which has been viewed over 31,000 occasions will remain live until 27 May 2025.”   In a report to the Board Mr Allen added that a campaign group named the director of the Health and Social Care Partnership on 22 April expressing their concern about the proposed closure of the café.   The group requested that the IJB remove the saving for the year 2025/26 to allow time for stakeholder consultation and development of partnership working between West Lothian Council and community organisations “to find a sustainable solution to maintain this vital service”.   The group also asked that the IJB use the next month to fully scrutinise the financial figures of the café consider the wider community benefits it brings.  Board member John Innes asked what would happen if no viable proposal came forward before the Board meets again in June He was told that the venue would close as part of the 25/26 budget proposals.  Union representative Stevie Dunn asked if more information could be made available on the proposals to find work places for staff.   “What are the plans for the staff in the event that the cafe closes I suppose they’ll have to be managed under organisational change Mr Allen said: “There are four FTE and five individuals involved We considered what options were available and worked with colleagues in Property Services to identify alternative positions for those individuals to move to before the March meeting With the two-month deferment we will need to pick that up again.”   He added that should a new operator be confirmed the issue of Tupe (Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations which ensures that employees typically continue to work for the new employer under the same terms and conditions as they had with the previous employer could be considered.    Log in to leave a comment This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed. The Edinburgh Reporter brings you news all about Edinburgh, updated here as often as we can.. Notifications can be managed in browser preferences. I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Anti-racism demonstrations have taken place in Scotland for the first time following the disorder elsewhere in the UK The campaign group Stand Up To Racism Scotland (SUTRS) organised the counter-protests in the towns of Bathgate in West Lothian and Paisley in Renfrewshire demonstrators carrying banners and placards gathered outside the Cairn Hotel on Blackburn Road Placards carried by members of the crowd bore slogans that included “refugees welcome” “smash fascism & racism” and “stop the far right” SUTRS said: “After Wednesday’s stunning antifascist mobilisations drive the racist far-right out of our streets.” The post added: “Stop any intimidation & harassment at Cairn Hotel Calling on local anti-racists to come together this evening.” Trade union banners could also be seen in the crowd that gathered in the West Lothian sunshine on Friday evening A similar demonstration took place at the same time outside the Watermill Hotel in Paisley Prior to these events there had been no far-right demonstrations Further anti-racism protests are planned in a number of Scottish cities on Saturday Earlier, it was revealed that John Swinney had written a letter to X and Meta – which owns Facebook and Instagram – saying police chiefs in Scotland have raised concern at the length of time it takes for technology companies to remove “problematic” posts the First Minister told social media bosses: “It is clear to me that social media platforms have a duty to take action to ensure that individuals in our society are not subjected to hate and threatening behaviour and that communities are protected from violent disorder.” Everyone has a role in stopping the spread of misinformation You and your platform have a specific responsibility to do so He added: “Everyone has a role in stopping the spread of misinformation You and your platform have a specific responsibility to do so.” The social media giants have been told to set out how they are combating racist and hateful speech spread across the platforms with Mr Swinney adding: “Given the seriousness of the situation action needs to be immediate and decisive.” Pressure has been growing on social media giants in recent days, with former Scottish first minister Humza Yousaf describing X, formerly Twitter, owner Elon Musk as “one of the most dangerous men” on the planet at a talk in Edinburgh on Thursday. Digital Ofcom watchdogs also wrote to social media bosses to remind them of their obligation to remove dangerous communication. Police, fire crews and an air ambulance were called to Blackburn Road in Bathgate on Tuesday morning. Police, fire crews and an air ambulance were sent to the scene around 10.10am on Tuesday at an industrial premises on Blackburn Road in Bathgate. A 59-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) said it is aware of the incident and working with police. A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 10.10am on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, we received a report of a man injured at industrial premises on Blackburn Road, Bathgate. “Emergency services attended; however the 59-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. “Enquiries are continuing, and the Health and Safety Executive has been informed.” A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were requested at 10.05am on Tuesday, March 4 to assist our emergency service partners at a commercial premises in Bathgate. “Operations Control mobilised four appliances to the town’s Blackburn Road, where firefighters worked to assist their partners before leaving the area.” A Scottish Ambulance Service spokesperson said: “We received a call at 9.59am on March 4 2025 to attend an incident on Blackburn Road, Bathgate. “Two ambulances, an air ambulance with trauma team and special operations response team (SORT) were dispatched to the scene.” A HSE spokesperson said: “We are aware of the incident and are working with Police Scotland.” Sign In Register It is with profound sadness we share that Andrew Ryan Bathgate passed away unexpectedly on Monday 2025. Adored by all who were lucky to know him Andrew leaves a huge hole in our world. A son and friend; Andrew attended school in Moose Jaw SK and graduated from Central Collegiate. He attended Saskatchewan Polytechnic and obtained his Red Seal Journeyman Carpenter most recently employed with PCL Construction where he excelled. A skilled craftsman many are lucky to have benefitted from his skills and projects over the years. Andrew loved to be outdoors and travelling; there are so many memories of family vacations and camping trips that we will treasure forever. Known among the family as a chef Andrew took excellent care of his “third child” – his BBQ. He was so caring and put his family first and always ready for a conversation. Blessed with an excellent sense of humour Andrew made friends easily and was loved by all.  Andrew leaves to mourn his partner of 17 years and their children Addison and Callum. He will be profoundly missed by his parents Gregg and Helen; sisters: Jylian (Daniel) and their children Niko and Alison (Mike) and their children Madison (Tim) Bradley. Andrew is also survived by numerous aunts as he was a firm supporter of organ donation.  Andrew is best summed up in a text message he sent to his family; we will miss him always Always do and always will” – Andrew Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Gary McDowell, Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www.moosejawfuneralhome.com Peoples Ford Boghall & Bathgate Caledonia Pipe Band are thrilled to announce the launch of their crowdfunding campaign for the highly anticipated pre-Worlds concert at the prestigious Glasgow Royal Concert Hall This event promises to be an unforgettable evening of traditional and contemporary pipe band music showcasing the exceptional talent and passion of one of the world’s premier pipe bands led by Pipe Major Ross Harvey and Leading Drummer Kerr McQuillan The primary objective of this campaign is to fund the production and recording of a live album of the concert capturing the energy and excellence of the band’s performance in one of Scotland’s most iconic venues The band invites supporters and music enthusiasts from around the globe to join them in making Cabar Feidh a resounding success The crowdfunding campaign offers a range of exclusive perks designed to appeal to fans Here are some of the perks available to backers: Pipe Major Ross Harvey said: “We are incredibly excited about ‘Cabar Feidh’ and the opportunity to share our music with the world The support from our fans and the wider community is essential to making this concert and live album a success and we are thrilled to offer these unique perks as a token of our appreciation.” Funds raised from the campaign will go towards the production costs of the concert and the live album ensuring a high-quality experience for both live and remote audiences it will support the band’s ongoing efforts to promote and preserve the rich tradition of pipe band music For more information on the crowdfunding campaign and to pledge your support, please visit https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/cabar-feidh-2024-live-album–2#/.  Peoples Ford Boghall & Bathgate Caledonia Pipe BandFounded in 1972 Peoples Ford Boghall & Bathgate Caledonia Pipe Band has solidified its place as one of the premier pipe bands globally known for its musical excellence and commitment to the art of pipe band performance the band is dedicated to youth development and teaching in the local community nurturing the next generation of pipers and drummers Pipe Major Ross Harvey lifted the World Champion Jubilee Trophy and banner at Glasgow Green in August 2023 A response to a Holyrood consultation on the plan had been delayed after West Lothian Councillor Danny Logue expressed his fears about fire risks.  A motion presented by the council leader highlighted the dangers of battery plant fires and called on the Scottish Government to take note of the historic risks at such plants.  Planners recommended concerns could be handled by planning conditions.      Last month Councillor Logue highlighted the severity of fires at storage plants around the world including Australia and the US where firefighters had fought for days to control fires.  At this month’s meeting he again raised his fears about the planned site next to the Boghead Roundabout.  “I’m concerned about the distance,” he told fellow councillors “There’s been a number of serious incidents around the world.  I have reservations because the distance from residential areas is not great enough.”   And the SNP councillor Carl John asked a planning officer if he thought the Fire Service would be able to tackle a disaster at such a site.  said it was not for the council planning department to speak for the Fire Service.  Planning officer Tony Irving told the meeting that the Scottish Government was consulting Scottish Fire and Rescue as part of the wider consultation.  Councillor Fitzpatrick reminded the meeting that the council was being asked for its views as a consultee and not as the planning authority making a decision on the development.  Other worries raised about the proposed site centred on pollution and the disposal and decommissioning of batteries.  The council could object to the plans set to be lodged under the 1989 Electricity Act but that would force a government public enquiry with a potential financial liability for the council if it lost.   The plan proposes the installation of a battery energy storage system and associated infrastructure with a generating capacity of up to 200MW on land at Pond Industrial Estate  The proposed development consists of the siting of 74 containerised battery storage units and ancillary equipment A sub- station building and a high voltage compound together with a Scottish Power Transmission compound area a SUDS basin and concrete perimeter walls measuring 11ft and a 16ft wall height on the southern and eastern sides of the application site respectively will be erected which will act as acoustic barriers.  The site will be surrounded by a further security fence with CCTV installed.  Fire officers told a recent meeting of Bathgate Local Area Committee that such sites have significant input from the Fire Service at all development stages.  The town’s community council has lodged no objections during the Scottish Government consultation.   The paper before the Executive recommended no objections be lodged and also that the council rules governing responses to consultations around national infrastructure such as the Electricity Act be updated by the next meeting of the full council at the end of the month.  The Council Executive also agreed to convey to the Scottish Government that any consent granted should take into account concerns raised by members at the Executive It added information on the five biggest lithium-ion battery fires to date calling on the government to take cognisance of them.   A Dundee man has admitted taking photos under women’s clothing on a train journey in Fife at a plush Edinburgh hotel and at an insurance broker in the capital targeted one of his three victims while on a ScotRail train between Inverkeithing and Kirkcaldy on January 19 2023 He violated a second woman at the Huxley bar and restaurant in Edinburgh’s Rutland Street on December 21 2022 and a third woman at Lockton Companies in the city’s Torphichen Street on 26 January 2023 Bathgate, of Smiddy Brae, Fowlis, appeared at Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court to plead guilty to the three voyeurism offences He was put on the sex offenders register ahead of sentencing next month Bathgate admitted operating equipment beneath the clothing of three women by using a mobile phone “to take or attempt to take images” of their bodies under their clothing without their knowledge The charges state he operated the equipment with the intention of enabling himself or another person to observe their genitals It is a contravention of Section 9 of the Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act 2009 covering voyeurism offences Bathgate had faced a fourth voyeurism charge and a fifth allegation of committing a breach of the peace but prosecutors accepted not guilty pleas to those He had been accused of using his phone to take or attempt to take images under the clothing of “various women” whose identities are meantime unknown to the prosecutor on various occasions between July 2022 and March 2023 It was alleged this happened at various locations including Princes Street and on various train services in Scotland including journeys between Haymarket and Dundee At the same locations and over the same timeframe Bathgate had also been accused of repeatedly using his phone to take pictures of various women without their knowledge This breach of the peace charge included the name of one woman and “those whose identities are meantime to the prosecutor unknown” Sheriff Mark Allan deferred sentencing until March 6 to obtain background reports Full details of the circumstances surrounding these crimes are expected to be given at the sentencing hearing For more local court content visit our page or join us on Facebook