INTRODUCTION FROM THE GALA-DAY COMMITTEE PRESIDENT
In 1871, the population of the village of Blackridge was only 95. Over the next
10 years this had only risen to 110 but then doubled to 205 by 1891. Thus began the burgeoning of the village and, by 1893, 45 miners and 20 railwaymen made up a third of the population. As more pits opened, more miners moved into the village and the population increased to 797 by 1901 then more than doubled again to 1,979 in 1911. My own family were among the earliest miners to move to the village from the coalfields of East Ayrshire in the 1880’s.
Pits were opened at Westrigg, Craigs, Blairmuckhill, Forestburn, Blackridge N os.
1 & 2 (Stanehill) and Blackridge N o. 3 (New Pit). The pit-owners built houses to meet the growing village of Blackridge following on to Westrigg and Westcraigs.
In the 1890’s, Nimmo built first Craig Terrace and Upper Craig Terrace then
Burnside Terrace. Jas. Wood built Knocker Row in 1899 and, in 1909 United
Collieries built the Store Block and the Big Block in Westrigg. United Collieries built 68 houses in Westcraigs in 1924.
Pipe band passing the ‘middle terrace’ – Craig Terrace, built in 1896
Along with the increase in the numbers of workers, there was a corresponding rise in the numbers of school-age children. The 1898 school roll had 150 pupils. This had doubled by 1900 to 322 and to 422 by 1909. In 1902, four new classes were added to the school and, by 1911, another three new classes, cooking and science rooms and a drill hall were built. By 1914, there were 595 children at school in Blackridge. They had big families in those days many with many weans.
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From our viewpoint today, it is difficult to imagine the rigours of life for the working family in those early days. Never mind fortnights abroad, the working man didn’t have the benefit of a week away. So, amusement had to be found at home, in a break from the routine. Thus, the working men and their families arranged days when they could have a ‘wee trip’. Their wee trip did not involve a train ride to Burntisland or Portobello as it did in my childhood; their horizons were somewhat narrower.
Their wee trip was an organised jaunt to the Craig Hill for a picnic. This later became a wee jaunt, a picnic and then some sports – the Gala Day had arrived.
The Gala Day was, and still is to this day, a day to forget your travails and enjoy and have fun with your neighbours.
As the village grew to become three communities, so the Gala Day went from Blackridge Gala Day in 1908, to Blackridge and Westrigg
Children’s Gala Day in 1909 and later to Blackridge, Westrigg &
Westcraigs Children’s Gala Day as it is today.
If the first Gala Day was in 1908, then why is this year the Centenary?
Local lore has it that the first Gala
Day was in 1909 and the committee planned for a centenary year in
2009. However, as we researched this booklet, we came across the
Courier report from 1908 and so we have changed our celebration to
‘100 Years of Gala Days’ . . . we just hope we don’t come across any ea rlier Gala Days or we’ll have to hire the Tardis!
As will be seen from the following reports from the West Lothian
Courier, the gala has grown and
Gala Day President with his sister outside 6 Craig Terrace getting ready for the 1957 Gala Day changed over the years. As other villages and towns developed this day of celebration, it became a day for visiting friends and relations locally. Ideas like parades, processions, arches, fancy dress characters and decorated houses became the norm in West Lothian. Blackridge, along with
Westrigg and Westcraigs, were in the vanguard. As some photos here will testify, the loony band isn’t a new phenomenon we have produced loony bands for nearly a century.
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The excerpts from the Courier show how the day was reported over the years.
We have looked at the years 1909, 1919, 1929, and so on, up till 1999. From these we can see the character of the village changing but many will be able to identify with the names of the villagers participating in the sports. For myself, I note my aunts and uncles taking part in the festivities. Further on, I see my cousins and my school friends. Later still it is the next generation coming through and taking part in their Gala Day. I thought that my granny won her race every year but, in the one featured here, she was only first equal.
We drew some reports from the old committee minute book.
There were many stalwarts on the committee who gave up their time to organise the Gala Day and collect money for the bags.
Today’s committee salute the work they did in running successful Gala Days for 100 years. We will honour them on this special Gala Day and show our appreciation. However, it would be unfair to name any particular names - this being
Blackrig, if we missed anybody out, there’s bound to be a rammy!
We asked our councillors and the Courier correspondent to tell us their memories and reminiscences of Gala Days past and this follows the reports from the minute books. Lastly, we asked today’s schoolchildren for their views on the Gala Day and their robust views make interesting reading.
My own memories of Gala Days past are of the show park being where
Leishman Court is now, of the visitor’s races after we moved out of the village and of the two gala bags – you only got a second one if you walked in the parade. I used to wonder if there were two bags because we had two co-ops,
Armadale and West Benhar, vying to outdo one another.
Blackridge, Westrigg & Westcraigs Gala Day began 100 years ago when miners and other workers faced much adversity. They endured testing times whilst the village expanded but everyone got together to enjoy their Gala Day. The village is once again in a period of expansion, whilst finding itself in another period of recession. The initial coming of the railway caused the growth of Blackridge and the coming again of the railway will see a different growth as the nature of the village changes. Let us hope that the Bairns’ Day will continue to flourish.
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Robert Walker of Craigs Farm standing with the horse
From the Courier of 21 st August 1908
On Saturday last about 900 school children celebrated their annual Gala Day at
Craig Hill, in fine weather. The Harthill Pipe Band was in attendance. After refreshments were served, a lengthy programme of games was gone through, a feature of which was the women's race. The subscriptions, which were publicly raised, amounted to a respectable total. A committee of seven carried through the proceedings successfully. It is hoped that by next year, the proceedings will be organised on an even larger scale.
From the Courier of
20 th August 1909
CHILDREN’S GALA DAY – On
Wednesday night a meeting was held at the Craig Inns, for the purpose of considering the Blackridge and
Westrigg Children’s Gala Day. There was a fair attendance. Mr John
Chapman occupied the chair. Mr. R.
Hardy, Westrigg (secretary and treasurer) reported a surplus of £5-0s-
10d from last year, which was considered satisfactory, and Mr Hardy was re-elected as secretary and treasurer. The following committee
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were then appointed to take donations throughout the village and Westrigg –
Messrs J. Jeffrey, W. Miles, R. Jamieson, M. McLaren, J. Roy, J. Mushat, J.
Laird, and Edward Edwards. The day was fixed for Saturday, 28th August, and it was agreed to engage a brass band for the occasion. The arrangements were left in the committee ’s hands, and the meeting was closed.
From the Courier of 4 th September 1909
BLACKRIDGE AND WESTRIGG CHILDREN’S GALA DAY – Despite the inclement weather last Saturday, the children of Blackridge and Westrigg held their annual Gala Day. Harthill Pipe Band was in attendance, and marched from Blackridge through Westrigg to the Craig Hill, followed by the children. On arriving there refreshments were served, and then the Committee organised races and games. The
Band discoursed music at intervals, and dancing was indulged in until late in the afternoon. Although the weather was showery, the children managed to enjoy themselves, and returned home about seven o’clock without any mishap.
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From the Courier of 18 th April 1919
The Children’s Gala Day has been fixed to take place this year, sometime in
June. The Committee are endeavouring to add, apart from the usual amusements, merry-go-rounds and all the fun of the fair. The committee, by changing the date of this event, have done the right thing as it gives more time to make arrangements for the children’s benefit.
From the Courier of 27 th June 1919
BLACKRIDGE AND WESTRIGG CHILDREN’S GALA DAY -- On Saturday last
Blackridge and Westrigg held their annual Children's Gala Day. The weather was ideal for the occasion and close on 1000 children turned out. The first part of the programme was a procession through the district with Armadale Silver
Band and the local Pipe Band in attendance. A new feature of the procession this year was a fancy dress or character competition and the enthusiasm with which some of the youngsters entered into it proved that the idea had come to stay. Afterwards, the procession entered the Westend Park, kindly granted by the Sports Committee, where buns and milk were served out in abundance.
Then games and races were started. The boys' marathon deserved special mention as there was a good field, and all ran as if they were not boys but men,
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and the finish was close and exciting. There was also a manhunt and the finder received £1. There was much fun in this, but the winner had not much trouble as he asked the gentleman for the £1 note as he came into the park at 5 o'clock. The president of the Committee (Mr John Boyd) in opening the proceedings commented upon the splendid weather and the large turnout of children and parents. Also he was pleased to see on the field two well-known gentlemen from Armadale, and he thought it a splendid opportunity to ask them to address the gathering - the gentlemen were the Rev. Mr Drew and Father
Rattray. Father Rattray then spoke of the pleasure and surprise that it had occasioned him to see such a large gathering of children. He had no idea that
Blackridge Gala Day was such a big affair. He hoped the school teachers would soon take an interest in the Gala Day, as he thought that they were better able to work with the children than a committee was, although the order which prevailed today was very creditable to the committee and the children. Rev. Mr
Drew was called away during the above speech.
There was another innovation in the form of a baby show or competition under
12 months, for which 12 were entered. The judges were Wm. and Janet
Anderson, Armadale. The first prize was awarded to James Hardie (5 months);
2nd, Samuel Menzies Dunbar (5 weeks). All the other competitors received consolation prizes. The prize-winners in the fancy dress parade were 1, Alice
Nicol and Richard Nicol - Tinkers; 2, Walter Neilson - fancy dressed cyclist; 3,
Frank Matthews - Sweep; 4, Maggie Hamilton - Food Controller; 5, W. Mathews
- Pierette. A long programme of races was then gone through, and prizes awarded in each class. Five-a-side football was also keenly contested. Mr
Wm. Laird was the successful man hunter. The committee this year was as follows - President, Mr J. Boyd, secretary, Mr R. Menzies; treasurer, Mr J.
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M'Ghie; and Messrs. Jas. Hamilton, James Sneddon, Wm. Montgomery, James
Montgomery, P. Hogan, J. Swan, T. Ramsay, K. Mathieson, R. Templeton. J.
Marshall, Peter Sneddon. They are to be complimented upon the excellent arrangements and the way they were carried through.
From the Courier of 5 th July 1929
BLACKRIDGE CHILDREN’S GALA DAY
OUTSTANDING DISPLAYS
ALL THE WINNERS
On Saturday, the children of Blackridge and Westrigg held their annual Gala
Day. Favoured with brilliant sunshine, the event proved one of the most successful yet held in connection with those two villages. In making the preliminary arrangements, the office-bearers and members of Committee spent many weeks of hard work and undoubtedly to them belongs much credit for so arranging matters that, when good weather favoured, everything worked with clock-work regularity. The following, therefore, deserve high praise for their work.
President, Mr H. Deans; vice-president, Mr Charles Neilson; secretary, Mr
James Edwards; treasurer, Mr Wm. Brown; Committee, Messrs D. Tait, C.
Barras, A. McMullan, Wm. Hardy, H. Scobbie, H. Docherty, R. Baxter, D. Weir,
E. Connorton, R. Somerville, W. Matthews, D. Forgie, H. Bowes, W. Dowell, J.
Jeffrey, R. Welsh, W. Kincaid, Jas. Tease.
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PICTURESQUE VILLAGES
In their endeavours to brighten the village, the Committee offered prizes for decorated premises, decorated vehicles, and for arches. The results were most gratifying. The decorations on the premises, shops and houses were very picturesque, and helped to give a brightness to the villages in consonance with the gala spirit.
The prize-winners for decorated premises were – 1, Mr W. Liddell; 2, Mr R.
Neilson; 3, Mr A. Simpson.
Very fine, too was the three span arch at
Westrigg and the three span arch at
Blackridge. Both were on the same plan as those so distinctly a feature of Bathgate
Newland Procession day, and the builders are to be congratulated on their artistry. The busking of each arch was particularly well done, while the decorations were in good taste. The judges had great difficulty in making their awards and it was only after much consideration that the prizes were allocated thus:-
Arches - 1st,
Blackridge, builders -
James Fulton, David
Raeside, Isaac
Prentice, Alex.
Prentice, Peter Scobie,
Robert Laird, Gavin
Whitelaw, Matthew
Prentice, Charles Muir,
Wm. Fisher, Joe Cole,
Walter Sneddon and
Duncan McMillan.
2nd prize, Westrigg builders – J. Hamilton,
T. Beresford, R. Hamilton, J. Dowes, J. Martin, D. Carson, D. Cochrane J.
Lambie, J. Gallacher, A. Lambie, T. Hamilton, S. Beresford, J. Cochrane and J.
Duffin.
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DECORATED VEHICLES: FANCY COSTUMES
There were numerous decorated vehicles, and these included motor Iorries and horse drawn lorries. Quite a number were those which had taken part in
Armadale Children's Day procession the previous week, and four were again prize winners. All the vehicles were most artistic and useful, for they carried the younger children. The awards were thus: Decorated horse-drawn lorries - 1, Mr
Samuel Denholm, Armadale; 2, Mr Wm. Denholm, Armadale; 3, Mr James
Walker, Armadale. Motor lorries - 1, Mr J. Johnston, Armadale; 2, Mr A.
Simpson, Blackridge.
For the competition for dressed characters by the children, there was a big entry. The prize-winners were:- 1, Margaret Rankin; 2, Alice Armstrong; 3,
Mary and Catherine Brown; 4th Annie Summers. In an adult dress character competition, the winners were - 1, Mr G. Liddell; 2, Mr G. Kessock; 3, Mr W.
Cochrane.
THE PROCESSION
There were 1,400 children accompanied by Prestonlink Colliery Silver Band,
Stewart and Lloyd’s Pipe band, and Dr Bell's Public School Brass Band. In the procession were also the decorated vehicles. The tout ensemble made a grand show. To music of the bands, and hearty cheering, the youngsters gaily stepped along the road from the School to the Recreation Park at Westrigg.
Over 1,000 adults lined the peaceful points of vantage, and gave the bairns hearty receptions. A brilliant sun shone overhead and everyone was attuned to the warmth of Old King Sol.
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On arrival at the field, the children were regaled with buns and milk. Thereafter games and music were enjoyed, and in the afternoon the children were served with teas and cake.
GAMES AND SPORTS
In the recreation park, the various bands provided a programme of music, while
Professor F.B. Findlay's Troop of Dancers provided a fine programme of classical dances. The troop was conducted by Miss Ritchie, Bo'ness.
SPORTS RESULTS
All the sports events were engaged in with keen enthusiasm, and the results were, in most cases, very close.
BOYS' EVENTS
Marathon race (1 mile) 1, Wm. Matthews; 2, T. Connorton; 3, G. Marshall; 4, W
McKay.
Football (five-a-side) competition – 1, Marshall, Bell, Stockman, Borrowman, and Hamilton.
2, Calder, Gallacher, Prentice, McKay, Carse.
Cycle race - 1, A. Myles; 2, S. Osborne; 3, J. Hamilton.
Tug of war – 1, Wm. Matthews, C. Ashton, T. Connorton, F. Osborne, A.
Mitchell, A. Glasgow, R. McClement, A, Galbraith, J. Mitchell; 2, H. Stockman,
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J. Borrowman, D. Bell, W. McKay, G. Muir, T Nelson, J. Sweeney, J. Dick, Geo.
Marshall.
Boys, 8 years – 1, J. Anderson; 2, J. McMillan; 3, R. Steel.
9 years - 1, John Dryburgh; 2. Spalding; 3, P. Connorton.
10 Years - 1, H. McMichael, 2 J. Maxwell; 3, J. Sweeney.
11 years - 1, T. Connorton; 2, R. Lennox; 3, J. Anderson.
13 years - 1, G. Marshall; 2, A. Myles; 3, C. Ashton.
14 years - 1, W. Matthews; 2, A, Galbraith; 3, R. Ure.
Boys sack race - 1, Jas. Dixon; 2, P. Connorton; 3, A. Mitchell.
Boys three-legged race - 1, G. Marshall and W. Matthews; 2, T. Connorton and
J. Dixon; 3, equal, Geo. Leishman and J. Cherrey, and D. Sweeney and P.
Matthews.
High Jump - 1, Wm. Matthews; 2, T. Connorton; 3, A. Calder.
GIRLS' EVENTS
Sack race - 1, Mary Bradley; 2, Agnes Ashton; 3, Annie Robertson.
Egg and spoon race - 1, Jean Marshall; 2, E. Dunsmore, 3, Grace Blair.
Skipping rope race - 1, J. Hamilton; 2, C. Purdie; 3, P. Hamilton.
Championship race - 1, Sadie Condie; 2, L. Robertson; 3, Annie Mighton.
8 years - 1, Janet Mighton; 2, Annie Robertson; 3, Lizzie Frew.
9 years - 1, Annie Mighton; 2, Margaret Beresford; 3, Sadie Glasgow.
10 years - 1, Betty Lindsay; 2, Mabel Marshall; 3, Margaret Calder.
11 years - 1, M. Bradley; 2, Phyllis Alexander; 3, Peggie Hamilton.
12 years - 1, H. Dunsmore, 2, J. Hamilton; 3, M. Bryce.
13 years - 1, L. Steele; 2, J. Marshall; 3, equal, Nan Steele and Chris Purdie.
14 years - 1, Sadie Condie: 2, Lizzie Robertson; 3, Jane Meechan.
Three-legged race – girls - 1, M. Robertson and Phyllis Alexander; 2, Jean
Murray and E. Dunsmore; 3,
Lizzie Robertson and Jane
Meechan.
Potato race - 1, E. Dunsmore; 2,
G. Blair; 3, N. Lamont.
Netball - 1, Lizzie Steel (Capt.);
J. Marshall, Isa Hardie, J. Rae,
A. Fulton, R. Robertson, and G.
Blair.
2, Peggy Brown (Capt.); N.
Scobie, A. Dixon, E. Adamson,
J. Meechan, M. Frew, B.
Lambie.
The proceedings closed at 8 p.m., and all voted Saturday’s
Gala Day as one of the best held in the history of the village.
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From the Courier of 30 th June 1939
CHILDREN’S DAY
Blackridge, Westrigg, and Westcraigs
PROCEEDINGS A SUCCESS
The Blackridge and District Annual Children’s Day was held on Saturday under good weather conditions. The children met at the school and were marshalled under their respective school teachers with
Mr W. Scott, headmaster, and
Mr A. Downs, assistant master, directing. There were just over
600 children on parade although there were about 1500 tickets issued. This suggests that many parents in Blackridge,
Westrigg, and Westcraigs allowed their children to watch the parade instead of taking part in it. It was disappointing to the committee who had devoted so much valuable time to organising the procession.
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The village was well decorated for the occasion.
The children moved off from the west end of Blackridge just after
11:30. The president, Mr K,
Mathieson, led the parade followed by the Banner, carried by six boys. Armadale Silver
Band came next, and then followed dressed characters, of which there was a large turn-out.
Decorated motor lorries were filled the tiny tots and Stewarts and Lloyds Pipe Band came next. Armadale Public Band,
Westrigg Jollity Social Club Pipe Band, and the remainder of the children brought up the rear. The children were gaily dressed and carried flags.
At Westrigg Recreation Park each child was issued with a bag of cakes, milk and a new penny.
A fine sports programme followed.
During the proceedings two slight showers of rain were experienced, but they were of short duration.
The Blackridge Eastern Star Ladies' Committee, under Mrs W. Tait, W.M., were great helpers and attended well to the children. The Gala committee were very fortunate in having such a willing section of ladies. Also most helpful were the members of the Public School staff under Mr W. Scott, headmaster. In organising the procession and helping at football and netball ties they did splendid work.
The Children's Day
Committee responsible for carrying out the year's work were :- President,
Mr K. Mathieson; vicepresident, G. Whitelaw, treasurer, Wm. Matthews; secretary Jas. Edwards; assistant secretary Mr
Jas. Prentice; general committee – Messrs.
George Steele, C. Muir,
Wm. Prentice, Wm.
Hardie, D. McMeeking, H.
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Scobie, R. Kincaid, Jas. Tease, John Lambie, Jas. Adamson, R. Blair, W.
Kefferty, F. Marshall, Alex. Marshall, G. Boyd, G. Campbell, W. Currie, W.
Rushton, A. Russell, R. Welsh, J. Aitken, R. Baxter, and R. Hardie.
SPORTS RESULTS
BOYS
8 Years
9 Years
10 Years
11 Years
1, C. Stockman 2, I. Watson
1, N. Sim
1, R. Walker
1, A. Sherlock
2, W. Prentice
2, E. Ramsay
2, A. Simpson
3, D. Livingstone
3, M. Carse
3, P. McGill
3, D. Beresford
12 Years
13 Years
1, A. Blackley
1, C. Wason
14 Years 1, H. McGill
Three-legged race 1, A. Frew
Championship
& D. Bryce
1, C. Wason
2, J. Williamson 3, A. Forgie
2, A. Frew
2, J. Sneddon
2, J. Sneddon
& T. Oliver
2, R. French
3, J. Spalding
3, G. Sherlock
3, R. Meechan
& R. Morrison
3, A. Frew
Jockey race 1, J. Spalding
& R. Morrison
Wheelbarrow race 1, A. Frew
& D. Bryce
1, E. Fisher Sack race
8 – 11 years
Sack race
12 – 14 years
1, R. Morrison
Boot and shoe
8 – 11 years
Boot and shoe
12 – 14 years
Tug of war
1, E. Fisher
1, T. McGill
1, A. Frew
2, C. Wason
& J. Lamont
2, J. Hutton
& R. French
2, E. Ramsay
2, J. Laing
2, A. Simpson
2, C. Wason
2, C. Wason
3, J. Williamson
& W. Hutton
3, G. Sherlock
& E. Ramsay
3, E. McGovern
3, R. Mackay
3, J. Sherlock
3, W. McInulty
Long jump
Pillow fight
Football
Balloon race
8 – 11 years
Obstacle race
1, R. Meechan
1, D. Bryce
1, D. Beresford
2, H. McGill
2, R. Morrison
1, T McGill’s five 2, T. Oliver’s five
2, R. Walker
3, R. French
3, G. Ramsay
3, A. McGill
Bun race
8 – 11 years
Bun race
12 – 14 years
1, C. Wason
1, A. McGill
1, W. Watts
2, J. Williamson
2, D. Beresford
2, T. Beresford
Marathon
Special award
1, W. McInulty 2, C. Wason
Highest points Chas. Wason
Visitors bun race 1, G. Buchanan
Armadale
2, J. Colquhoun
Armadale
3, R. Morrison
3, J. Sherlock
3, R. Meechan
3, J. Williamson
3, T. Watterson
Armadale
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GIRLS
8 Years
9 Years
10 Years
11 Years
Skipping rope
8 – 11 years
Skipping rope
12 – 14 years
Jockey race
1, I. Liddell
1, C. Lees
1, M. Welsh
1, I. Oliver
12 Years
13 Years
Championship
Egg & spoon race
8 – 11 years
Egg & spoon race
12 –14 years
1, B. Scobie
Three-legged race 1, B. Scobie
& E. Fisher
Robertson
2, E. Fisher
2, H. Carse
& H. Brown
1, N. Robertson 2, I. Thompson Sack race
8 – 11 years
Sack race
12 – 14 years
1, M. Marshall
1, B. Scobie
1, B. Scobie
1, B. McGill
1, I. Oliver
2, B. Paterson
2, Emma Fisher
2, M. Maxwell
2, Nettie
2, J. Spalding
3, M. Maxwell
3, M. Mungall
3, Emma Fisher
3, Helen Sim
3, M. Maxwell
3, B. McGill
& M. Ashton
3, S. McInulty
3, B. Scobie
1, I. Oliver
1, B. Scobie
2, B. Scobie
2, H. Sim
2, A. McLeish
2, B. McGill
2, C. Lees
2, M. Maxwell
3, J. Rankine
3, H. Maitland
3, J. McClymont
3, M. Ashton
3, M. Welsh
3, B. Paterson
Thread the
1, B. & J. Scobie 2, M. Mungall
& J. Sim
1, H. & B. McGill 2, T. & I. Oliver
3, M. Maxwell
& A. Sim
3, R. Mackay needle race
Long jump
Netball
Boot and shoe
8 – 11 years
Boot and shoe
12 – 14 years
Balloon race
8 – 11 years
Balloon race
12 – 14 years
Obstacle race
1, B. Scobie
1, B. McGill
1, B. Scobie
1, I. Oliver
1, B. Scobie
2, I. Oliver
1, N. Cunningham 2, B. Scobie
1, Mary Ashton 2, H. Blair
2, S. McInulty
2, M. Maxwell
2, M. Forgie
2, M. Maxwell
& A. Simpson
3, E. Fisher
3, M. Forgie
3, E. Fisher
3, A. Simpson
3, E. Fisher
1, B. Scobie 2, M. Maxwell 3, N. Robertson
Bun race
Special award
1, M. McGhie 2, A. Simpson
Highest points B. Scobie
Visitors bun race 1, J. Agnew
Armadale
2, B. Falkner
Armadale
3, Helen Brown
3, E. Harris
Bathgate
Decorated houses – 1 (Binnie Cup), Jas. Cochrane; 2, R. Jeffrey; 3, Mrs F. Bell.
Decorated motor lorries – 1, A.G. Simpson; 2, W. Graham; 3, Armadale Co-op
(J. McAllister).
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Decorated horse lorries – 1, R. Williamson.
Children’s fancy dress – 1, Jean Rankine; 2, R. Purdie; 3, Andrew Simpson and
Edward Fisher; 4, Jas. Bryce.
Adult fancy dress – 1, Jas. Barris; 2, Murray Hart; 3, Thos. Mitchell
Robert Walker of Craigs Farm from a 1920’s Gala Day
From the Courier of 1 st July 1949
BLACKRIDGE CHILDREN’S GALA DAY
A Joyous Occasion
Brilliant sunshine again favoured a local Gala Day, this time the Blackridge,
Westrigg and Westcraigs Children's Gala Day, which was held at Blackridge on
Saturday. Accompanied by Armadale Silver band, Stewart & Lloyd Pipe and
Coatbridge Argyll Pipe Bands, about 1500 smiling and happy children marched through the village, cheering lustily and waving flags. Scattered throughout the procession were fancy-dressed characters and gaily decorated vehicles which added to the occasion that splash of colour which makes a Gala Day something different from the routine of every-day life. The householders and shopkeepers contributed their share to the colourful scene, and altogether the atmosphere in the village was one of rejoicing and gaiety.
Leaving the school at mid-day, the procession wended its way through the various streets amidst loud outbursts of cheering which came not only from the
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youngsters but also from their older folks who lined both sides of the road. On arrival at Westrigg Recreational Park, the children received the customary bag and milk which, as yet, have never lost their popularity.
JUDGING OF FANCY DRESSES
Prior to the parade commencing the judging of fancy-dressed characters, vehicles and premises took place and resulted as follows :-
Fancy-dressed characters :-
Children - 1, Pearl Rankine, 126 Westrigg (Tea-cosy); 2, Alex. Barras and
Marina Gilchrist, Robert and Evelyn Jeffrey and Betty Kefferty (Bridal Group);
3, Alex. Robertson, 3 Craig Terrace (Shepherd and Dog). Although the following children were not in the prize list they deserve special mention for their originality in dress - June McLaren, 78 Westrigg (Court Lady 18 th Century);
Cath. McLeish, Westrigg (Gipsy); Rita Davidson, 57 Westrigg, and Nan
Marshall, 10 Ogilface Crescent (Rangers); June Marshall; 10 Ogilface Crescent
(April Showers); Helen Vassie, 73 Westrigg (Minuet Dancer); Euphemia Walker,
49 Westcraigs (Night & Day). Adults – 1. Wm. Millar; 2, Hugh McGill; 3, Wm.
Spalding.
Decorated vehicles:- Motor lorries - 1, Avon Mills,. Linlithgow (driver, J. Muir);
2. Bathgate Town Council (drivers, James Goldie and Boyd Lamont). Horse drawn (pony and trap) - Thomas McIvor, Newhouses.
Decorated premises - 1, the grounds of Blackridge Church of Scotland (per Iain
Hamilton); 2, Mr Dryburgh (house front); 3, West Benhar Co-op.
18

SPORTS RESULTS
Throughout the afternoon a comprehensive sports programme was carried through, the following being a list of the results :-
Girls
7 Years
Potato race
8 Years
9 Years
10 Years
11 Years
12 Years
9 Years
9-11 Years :-
Three-legged
Egg and spoon
Skipping
Obstacle race
Boot and shoe
Netball
Relay
Championship
12-15 Years:-
Three-legged
Egg and spoon
Skipping
Obstacle
Boot and shoe
Netball
Relay
Championship
Sack race
Jockey race
Wheelbarrow
1, F. Mungall
1, F. Mungall
1, J. Miller
1, I. Sim
1, J. Duffin
1, M. Watson
1, C. McNally
1, R. Harvey
1, N. McNally
& R. Dunbar
1, J. McGhie
1, M. McNally
1, M. McNally
2, J. Collins
2, G. Stokes
2, M. McGill
2, M. Reynolds
2, P. Scott
2, R. Rollo
& J. Hamilton
2, R. Rollo
2, R. Dunbar
2, B. Lamont
3, E. Fisher
3, M. Thomson
3, E. Neilson
3, H. McGregor
2, J. Henderson 3, R. Dunbar
2, M. McNally 3, S. McVittie
2, E. Royan 3, M. Jackson
3, S. McGregor
3, W. Reynolds
& N. Miller
3, S. McVittie
3, J. Forgie
3, R. Dunbar
1, M. McNally 2, R. McGowan 3, R. Dunbar
M. Lambie's team beat A. Stewart's team
1, M. McNally's team
2, R. Dunbar's team
3, J. Duffin's team
1, M. McNally
1, C. McNally
& R. Harvey
2, H. McGhie
2, S. McGregor
& M. Sneddon
3, G. McLean
3, M. Jackson
& T. Walker
1, R. Harvey
1, C. McNally
1, C. McNally
1, A. Rollo
2, A. Rollo
2, A. Rollo
2, R. Harvey
2, C. McNally
3, P. Scott
3, M. Jackson
3, P. Scott
3, J. McGhie
R. Harvey's team beat I. McGregor's team
1, R. Harvey's 2, A. Rollo's 3, C. McNally’s team team team
1, C. McNally
1, R. Harvey
1, R. Harvey
& H. McGregor
1, C. McNally
& R. Harvey
Consolation race 1, N. Marshall
2, R. Harvey
2, M. Sneddon
2, A. Rollo
& M. Miller
2, M. McNally
& R. Dunbar
2, G. Frew
3, A. Rollo
3, C. McNally & R.
Dunbar (tie)
3, M. Vint
& F. McLeish
3, A. Rollo
& P. Scott
3 equal R. Halpin
& G. Williamson
7 Years
Potato race
8 Years
1, E. Cherrie
1, J. Reynolds
1, A. Stephen
Boys
2, J. Love 3, H. Ferguson
2, P. McKeown 3, W. Lambie
2, A. Reynolds 3, J. Henderson
19

Potato race
9 Years
10 Years
11 Years
12 Years
13 Years
14 Years
15 Years
9-11 Years:-
1, A. Stephen
1, W. Kay
1, A. McLean
1, J. Hoggan
1, T. Marshall
1, A. Sim
1, J. Sim
1, P. Wardlaw
1, E. Murray
2, R. Blakely
2, A. Miller
2, W. Scott
2, J. Halpin
2, P. Roberts
2, R. Drybury
2, J. Gordon
2, A. Sim
2, J. Marshall
3, D. Carse
3, R. Vint
3, J. Bonnes
3, N. Belcher
3, M. Prentice
3, J. Dobbie
3, H. Sinnet
3, J. Sim
3, N. Valentine
Three-legged
Obstacle
Boot and shoe
Football
Championship
12-14 Years :-
Obstacle
Pillow fight
Boot and shoe
Tug-of-war
Football
Marathon
Relay
& A. Horsburgh
1, G. Reynolds
1, E. Cherrie
J. Reynolds' team beat N. Sharp's team
1, W. Scott
1, P. Wardlaw
& J. Leckie
2, A. Horsburgh
2, J. Roberts
2, J. Murray
2, T. Marshall
& J. Hoggan
3, W. Scott
3, F. Cherrie
3, H. Vint
3, J. Gordon
1, J. Gordon 2, J. Sim 3, R. McGregor
1, G. Dobbie 2, J. Thomson 3, H. Sinnet
H. Marshall’s team beat G. Gordon's team
H. Sinnet's team beat F. Maxwell's team
1, W. Nelson 2, J. Brown 3 (equal) A. Sim &
1, T. Marshall's 2, G. Dobbie's
P. Wardlaw
3, J. Gordon's
Sack race
Jockey race
Championship team
1, A. Miller
1, T. Marshall
1, P. Wardlaw
From the Courier of 4 th July 1969 team
2, J. Bonnes
2, J. Brown
2, T. Marshall team
3, W. Scott
3, J. Bonnes
3, R. Dryburgh
BLACKRIDGE GOES GAY FOR GALA DAY
Successful Festival
Blackridge children’s
Gala Day survived dull weather and continual threat of rain last
Saturday & triumphed.
Happily the rain didn’t materialise and the gala was carried through to a very successful conclusion.
The village looked its best for the occasion and young and old alike enjoyed the day in the open and the communal pleasure that only a Gala Day can bring.
20

The Gala Day committee from the start had their hands full. One of the bands was delayed for half an hour, and boys and girls were becoming a little impatient.
The children were marshalled, as usual in the school playground and
Mr. Swan, headmaster had them assembled and all ready to move when the bands were in their places.
At 11.45 a.m. judging of the children’s fancy-dress characters and those in the adult class were completed and, with everyone in their places, the procession, led by veteran Dick Welsh and Airdrie
Argyll Accordion Band left the school brae, with Bathgate Public and
Braemar Ladies’ Pipe bands accompanying.
At the foot of the brae, hundreds of parents and friends waved and cheered as the parade turned up
West Main Street and round
Helen Walker wins First Prize
Langside Drive, eventually coming to the gala field via East Main Street,
Westcraigs, and Westrigg.
As well as the officia l bands engaged for the procession, “the local loony band”, heralded by Mr Paterson, with improvised marshalling antics, gave cheering onlookers added entertainment, and during the sports events Bathgate Public
Band provided music for its many admirers who had gathered round.
With the help and co-operation of the committee, Mr Swan had little difficulty in controlling the public and ensuring that all the events were efficiently completed with the minimum of delay.
The committee, on and off the field, are to be congratulated on their efforts. It is because of them that
Blackridge Gala Day attracts more and more and makes the event for villagers and others one that will always be remembered.
21

SPORTS
The following were the results and sports :
Flat race :- 6 Years
7 Years
BOYS’ RESULTS
1, A. McGowan
1, J. Halpin
8 Years
9 Years
10 Years
11 Years
12 Years
13 Years
14 Years
1, H. Meechan
1, A. Middleton
1, W. McKenzie
1, S. French
1, D. Sinnett
1, S. Beresford
1, R. Sjczotka
15 Years
Three-legged :-
9-11 years
Three-legged :-
12-15 years
Sack race :- 9-11 yrs
1, W. McGowan
1, J. Sinnett
& W. Inglis
1, D. Marshall
& J. Hutton
1, H. Meechan
Sack race :- 12-15 yrs 1, Jas. MacKay
Jockey race :- 9-11 yrs 1, A. French
& A. Miller
Jockey race :- 12-15 yrs 1, R. Morrison
& T. French
Wheelbarrow 9-15 yrs 1, D. Marshall
& John Hutton
2, Ian Smith
2, D. McLeod
2, H. McKay
2, W. Inglis
2, A. Miller
2, H. Welsh
2, D. Marshall
2, Jas. McKay
2, R. Morrison
2, J. Quinn
2, A. Drummond
& A Robertson
2, J. Baxter
& W. McGowan
2, W. Inglis
2, A. McLeish
2, A. McGhee
& E. Welsh
2, D. Marshall
& J. Hutton
2, G. Strachan
& R. Sjczotka
O.A.P. race
Married men’s 36-55
Championship 9-11
Championship 12-15
1, Ben Mitchell
1, W. Smith
1, H. Welsh
1, R. Sjczotka
Obstacle race 9-11 yrs 1, A. Sinnett
Obstacle race 12-15 1, Wm. McGowan
Boot and shoe :- 9-11 1, A. Robertson
2, R. Morrison
2, A. McLeish
2, A. Sinnett
2, S. Beresford
2, E. McKay
2, John Hutton
2, A. Sinnett
Boot and shoe :- 12-15 1, G. Struthers
Relay race 9-15 Years 1, R. Sjczotka’s team
Consolation race
Young men’s 16-35
1, John McNee
1, T. Collins
2, R. Sjczotka
2, D. Bryce’s team
2, Ken McInulty
2, J. Swan
Marathon 1, S. Beresford
Primary football :- 9-11 1, D. Sinnett’s team
2, R. Sjczotka
2, D. T rott’s team
Primary football:-12-15 1, S. Beresford’s team 2, N. Livingstone team
Boys’ Champion John Hutton 11 points
GIRLS’ RESULTS
Flat race :- 6 Years
7 Years
8 Years
9 Years
1, H. Traynor
1, R. Pegg
1, D. Sutherland
1=, A. Beresford
2, A. Moffat
2, A. McCubbin
2, A. Pollock
1=, M. Chalmers
22

10 Years
11 Years
12 Years
13 Years
14 Years
15 Years
Three-legged :-
9-11 years
Three-legged :-
1, M. Smith
1, C. Halpin
1, A. Smith
1, J. Morrison
1, C. Strachan
1, C. Robertson
1, Jean Strachan
& Evelyn Robertson
1, D. Pegg
12-15 years
Egg & spoon :- 9-11
Egg & spoon :- 12-15
Skipping race :- 9-11
& L. Drennan
1, Eliz. Robertson
1, Cath. Strachan
1, L. McQueen
Skipping race :- 12-15 1, D. Pegg
Wheelbarrow 9-15 yrs 1=, Evelyn Robertson
& Cath. McNee
O.A.P. race
Married women 36-55
Championship 9-11
Championship 12-15
1=, Mrs Kincaid
1, Mrs Welsh
1, M. Smith
1, Cath. Strachan
Obstacle race 9-11 yrs 1, Eliz. Robertson
Obstacle race 12-15 1, Evelyn Robertson
Boot and shoe :- 9-11 1, Eliz. Robertson
2, J. Strachan
2, S. Chalmers
2, E. Sim
2, N. Robertson
2, J. Muir
2, Evelyn Robertson
2, S. Boyd
& Jean Robertson
2, M. Cassidy
& C. McNee
2, Jean Strachan
2, Eliz. Sim
2, Helen Robertson
2, Cath. Strachan
1=, Jean Strachan
& Elizabeth Robertson
1=, Mrs McGregor
2, Mrs Calderwood
2, C. Halpin
2, Alexis Smith
2, Jean Strachan
2, Cath. Strachan
2, Jeanette Strachan
Boot and shoe :- 12-15 1, Cath. Strachan
Relay race 9-15 Years 1, J. Muir’s team
Consolation race 1, M. Struthers
Young women’s 16-35 1, Morag Boyd
Primary netball :- 9-11 1, C. Halpin’s team
Primary netball:- 12-15 1, J. Morrison’s team
Girls’ Champion 1, Catherine Strachan
OTHER EVENTS
Decorated Lorries – 1, Local W.R.I.; 2, West
Lothian Co-op Society Ltd. (West Benhar)
Decorated premises – 1, A. Beresford, 4
Craighill View; 2, D. Sinnett, Sunnydale Road;
J. Robertson, Langside Drive; 4, “The Craig
Inn”, Main Street.
Fancy Dressed Characters – 1, James
Drummond (Robot), 4 Sunnydale Road; 2
2, Cath. McNee
2, Cath. Strachan’s tm.
2, Heather Cadan
2, Hazel Cadan
2, M. McKeown’s team
2, C. Strachan’s team
17 points
John Brown (Scarecrow), 11 Hillside Drive; 3,
Ronald Sjczotka (Zulu warrior), 59 Park Road;
4 (equal), Ann Jack (Bo-peep) Westcraigs and
C. McNee and Eve Robertson (Andy Capp and Flo).
Adults – 1, Graham Struthers (Pied Piper); 2, Mary Sjczotka (Nobody's child); and 3, William Park (Billy the Goat).
23

From the Courier of 6 th July 1979
Village Gala
COLOUR and gaiety marked Blackridge gala last Saturday and it was voted an outstanding success by the happy villagers.
There was a threat of rain but happily it did not materialise and everything was carried through without a hitch.
The Gala Day committee were out early. Three bands, followed by their admirers, struck up en route to their assembly point at Park Road and Craig
Street.
Gathered there were the decorated vehicles, bicycles and fancy dressed characters, awaiting the judges’ assessment before the parade began.
By noon the parade was marshalled and on their way to the school park at the west end of the village.
At the head of the parade and carrying the banner were Andrew Robertson, Jim
Alexander, and Jim Robertson.
The leading band was Caldercruix Accordion followed by Blackridge majorettes,
Eastfield and Harthill Flute Band, Harthill majorettes, Fauldhouse Miners
Welfare Youth Band and Vale o’ Craig Boys Club with the shield and trophies they won this year.
24

The striped shirts of the boy footballers, the bright and modern dresses of the majorettes and the man y attractive juvenile cyclists made this year’s procession very colourful.
At vantage points along the main streets, hundreds of villagers waved and cheered as the procession passed.
When the marchers reached the park, each child received a packed meal and refreshments. Then there was an interval before a lengthy sports programme began.
The judges for the competitions were Messrs Stewart, Allan and Souter from
Harthill and they had a difficult task assessing the prize winners.
The Gala Day committee are to be complemented on the success achieved. It is mainly due to their efforts that Blackridge Gala Day attracts more and more and, for the villagers and others, makes this annual event such a tremendous affair.
The competition results were:
Best decorated premises – 1, Farquhar
Square (The Stables) for originality; 2, the parish church youth club; 3,
Drummond Place; 4, No. 28
Drummond Place.
25

Best decorated vehicles – 1, Parkville Social Club; 2, Westcraigs; 3, Lowfield.
Best decorated bikes – 1, Angela Owen; 2, J. Riggins; 3, A. Roberts.
Best dressed characters –
(adults) 1, R. Sjczotka; 2, Mrs E. Barr; 3, M. McGrorty, D. Robertson.
(children) – 1, George Kerr; 2, Kevin McKeown; 3, Margaret Miller; 4, Margaret
McGrorty.
The sports results were:
Flat race :- 6 Years
7 Years
8 Years
9 Years
10 Years
11 Years
12 Years
13 Years
14 Years
15 Years
Three-legged race :- 9-11 years
Three-legged race :- 12-15 years
Egg & spoon race :- 9-11 years
Egg & spoon race :- 12-15 years
Skipping rope race :- 9-11 years
Skipping rope race :- 12-15 years
Wheelbarrow race 9-15 years
Married women’s race
Young women’s race
Championship race 9-11 years
Championship race 12-15 years
Obstacle race 9-11 years
Obstacle race 12-15 years
26
GIRLS
Julie Buchanan
Susan Wilson
Pauline Roy
Helen Drennan
Jane Drennan
Tracey McLean
Elizabeth Mullen
Mandy Somerville
Mary Welsh
Ann Robertson & Heather Thomson
Irene Sloan & Alice Sinnett
Jacqueline Hughes & Alison Hughes
Tracey McLean
Alison Hughes
Carol McLean
Margaret Steele
Tracey McLean
Mary O’Hagan
Mrs Hughes
Tracey McLean
Alison Hughes
Gail Allingham
Margaret Steele

Boot and shoe race :- 9-11 years
Boot and shoe race :- 12-15 years
Relay race
Netball Primary
Netball Junior
Tracey McLean
Margaret Steele
Gail Allingham
Gail Allingham
Julie Canning
Flat race :- 7 Years
8 Years
9 Years
10 Years
11 Years
12 Years
13 Years
14 Years
15 Years
Three-legged race :- 9-11 years
Three-legged race :- 12-15 years
Sack race :- 9-11 years
Sack race :- 12-15 years
Jockey race :- 9-11 years
Jockey race :- 12-15 years
Wheelbarrow race
Young men’s race
Championship race 9-11 years
Championship race 12-15 years
Obstacle race 9-11 years
Obstacle race 12-15 years
Boot and shoe race :- 9-11 years
Boot and shoe race :- 12-15 years
Relay race
Marathon
Football Primary
Football Junior
BOYS
Sandy Geddes
Sandy McKinnon
Mark Griffen
John McKeown
Frank Geddes
Brian Horsburgh
James Purdie
Gordon Bell
Jim McKeown
Alan Jamieson & Martin Middleton
James Robertson & Jim Alexander
Alan Jamieson
Jimmy Meechan
Jim McLean & Frank Geddes
James Purdie & Andrew Robertson
James Purdie & Andrew Robertson
John Halpin
Roy Orr
James Purdie
Alan Jamieson
James Meechan
Chris Hughes
James Purdie
Stephen Sim
Gordon Bell
B. Horsburgh
J. Robertson
27

From the Courier of
30 th June 1989
GALA - The Gala
Day Procession wound its way through the village streets before arriving at the public park at Westrigg where the food boxes were distributed before an afternoon of sports.
Results were:
Girls -
6 Years
7 Years
8 Years
9 Years
10 Years
11 Years
12 Years
13 Years
14 Years
15 Years
Bobby Walker astride a pony - the year is undisclosed
Three-legged race :- 9-11 years
Three-legged race :- 12-15 years
Egg & spoon race :- 9-11 years
Skipping rope race :- 9-11 years
Skipping rope race :- 12-15 years
Wheelbarrow race 9-15 years
O.A.P.’s race
Married women’s race
6 – 8 years Champion
9 – 11 years Champion
12 – 15 years Champion
Obstacle race 9-11 years
Obstacle race 12-15 years
Boot and shoe race :- 9-11 years
Young women’s race
Marathon
Boys -
6 Years
7 Years
8 Years
9 Years
L. Cunningham
S. Bradley
J. Gavin
G. Calderhead
G. Neilson
W. Campbell
A. Filson
G. Meechan
A. Drennan
H. Thomson
R. Meechan & W. Campbell
S. Miller & A. Filson
R. Meechan
R. Meechan
A. Filson
S. Miller & A. Filson
Mrs Strachan
Mrs Cunningham
K. McKay
W. Campbell
A. Filson
E. Duncan
S. Miller
A. Filson
Miss Hughes
W. Campbell
N. Cassidy
I. Shanks
J. Robertson
W. Filson
28

10 Years
11 Years
12 Years
13 Years
14 Years
Three-legged race :- 9-11 years
Three-legged race :- 12-15 years
Sack race :- 9-11 years
Sack race :- 12-15 years
R. Meechan
M. Seawright
D. McKennan
K. Robertson
B. Stewart
D. Ezzie & D. McGowan
K. Coventry & K. Robertson
W. Filson
B. Stewart
Jockey race :- 9-11 years
Jockey race :- 12-15 years
Wheelbarrow race :- 9 - 15 years
Married men’s race
6 – 8 years Champion
9 – 11 years Champion
12 – 15 years Champion
Obstacle race 9-11 years
Obstacle race 12-15 years
Boot and shoe race :- 9-11 years
Boot and shoe race :- 12-15 years
G. Lambie & M. Seawright
K. Robertson & K. Coventry
B. Stewart & J. Geddes
H. Wood
I. Shanks
M. Seawright
J. Geddes
M. Seawright
J. Geddes
G. Cunningham
K. Robertson
Relay race :- 9 - 15 yrs K. Robertson, B. Denholm, C. Tease, G. Lambie
Marathon B. Stewart
Points Cup Winner Angela Filson & Billy Stewart
Decorated Premises
Fancy Dress (Adults)
Fancy Dress (Children)
Decorated Lorries
Mr. H. Wood
C. Duncan
W. Campbell
C. Boyd
29

Sandy and Kirsty’s decorated house in Westcraigs 27 th June 1987
From the Courier of 1 st July 1999
GALA – Everyone pulled out all the stops to ensure Blackridge had one of its best Gala Days for years. Many children participated in the parade, which wound its way through the streets bedecked with flags. Many premises were also decorated and the sun shone on the day.
Sports results were as follows:
Boys
6 Years
7 Years
1, Darryl Burns
1, Scott Craig
2, Darren Hardie 3, Thomas McNee
2, James McKay 3 Aaron Ferguson
9 Years
10 Years
11 Years
12 Years
13 Years
14 Years
Sack race
6-8 years
Sack race
9-11 years
1, Lee Moffat
1, A. Ferguson
1, Ryan Smith
1, James Lindsay
1, James McKay
1, James Jardine
2, Chris Meechan
2, Kieran Bryce
2, K. McCaully
2, Mark Ferguson
2, Scott Craig
2, K. McCaully
3, James Jardine
3, T. Naismith
3, Steven Walker
1, Stuart Ferguson 2, Ashley Roberts 3, Darryl Turnbull
1, Liam Moffat 2, Kevin Allison 3, J. van Nuil
3, Thomas Gavin
3, Alan Patterson
3, A. Ferguson
30

9-11 years
Obstacle race
12-15 years
Boot & shoe
6-8 years
Boot & shoe
9-11 years
Boot & shoe
12-15 years
Marathon
9-11 years
Marathon
12-15 years
Girls
6 Years
7 Years
8 Years
9 Years
11 Years
12 Years
13 Years
14 Years
Egg & spoon
6-8 years
Sack race
12-15 years
Three-legged
6-8 years
Three-legged
9-11 years
Three-legged
12-15 years
Jockey race
6-8 years
Jockey race
9-11 years
Jockey race
12-15 years
6 – 8 years
Championship
9 – 11 years
Championship
12 – 15 years
Championship
Obstacle race
6-8 years
Obstacle race
1, Stuart Ferguson 2, Gary Meechan 3, J. van Nuil
1, K. van Nuil
& Darryl Burns
1 Kallum McCaully
& Ryan Smith
1, Lee Moffat
& Stuart Ferguson
1, David Taylor
& K. van Nuil
1, Ryan Smith
& Kallum McCaully
1, Mark Ferguson
& Thomas Gavin
1, David Taylor
2, James McKay
& Scott Craig
2, Darren Moffat
& Neil Fish
2, Mark Ferguson
& John Dodds
2, Scott Craig &
Ryan Robertson
2, Liam Marshall
& James Jardine
2, Gary Meechan
& J. van Nuil
2, Scott Craig
1 Kallum McCaully 2, Steven Walker 3, Ryan Smith
1, Stuart Ferguson 2, Lee Moffat
1, David Taylor 2, Scott Craig
3, Ashley Roberts
3, K. van Nuil
1 Kallum McCaully 2, Steve Walker 3, Chris Meechan
1, Mark Ferguson 2, Lee Moffat
1, David Taylor 2, K. van Nuil
3, Ashley Roberts
3 Ryan Robertson
1, Kallum McCaully 2, Liam Marshall 3, James Jardine
1, G. Robertson
1, Kallum McCaully 2, Steven Walker 3, Ryan Smith
1, Mark Ferguson 2, G. Robertson 3, S. Ferguson
1, Fiona Steele
1, M.C. Mitchell
1, Amanda Gavin
1, G Cunningham
1, Gayle Shanks
1, A. Meechan
1, Jill Steele
2, Mark Ferguson
3, Scott Penman
& Steven Walker
3, Thomas Gavin
& Greg Campbell
3, Alan Patterson
& Darryl Burns
3, Scott Penman
& Steven Walker
3, Lee Moffat
& Stuart Ferguson
3, K. van Nuil
3, Greg Campbell
2, Rachael Craig
1, Lisa Hewitson 2, Joanne Coull 3 Jennifer Jardine
2, Sarah Baird
1, C Cunningham 2, Stacey Sinnet 3, Joanne Baird
2 Laura Meechan
2, Marie Shanks
2, M.C. Mitchell
3, G. Steele
3, S. Walker
3, Cath. Morrison
3 Jennifer Jardine
31

Egg & spoon
9-11 years
Egg & spoon
12-15 years
Three-legged
6-8 years
Three-legged
9-11 years
Three-legged
12-15 years
Skipping race
6-8 years
Skipping race
9-11 years
Skipping race
12-15 years
6 – 8 years
Championship
9 – 11 years
Championship
12 – 15 years
Championship
Obstacle race
6-8 years
Obstacle race
9-11 years
Obstacle race
12-15 years
Boot & shoe
6-8 years
Boot & shoe
9-11 years
Boot & shoe
12-15 years
Marathon
9-11 years
Marathon
12-15 years
Primary School netball
1, Stacey Sinnet 2, Dionne Burns 3, Amanda Gavin
1, Marie Shanks 2 G. Cunningham 3, Marie Shanks
1, M.C. Mitchell
& Sarah Baird
1, Amanda Gavin
& Debra Kincaid
1, Gail Shanks
2, Rachael Craig
& Joanne Coull
2, Dionne Burns
& E. Robertson
2 G. Cunningham
& Marie Shanks & Adele Meechan
1, Ashley Brodie 2, M.C. Mitchell
3, Stacey Sinnet
& C. Cunningham
Lindsay Denholm
& M. Alexander
3, Lisa Hewitson
1, Amanda Gavin 2 C. Cunningham Evelyn Robertson
1, Gail Shanks
1, M.C. Mitchell
2 G. Cunningham
2, Gill Steele
1, G Cunningham 2, G. Shanks
3, Marie Shanks
3, Laura McNee
1, Amanda Gavin 2 C. Cunningham 3, Stacey Sinnet
1, G Cunningham 2, Gail Shanks
1, M.C. Mitchell
1, E. Robertson
1, G Cunningham 2, Gail Shanks
1, Sarah Baird
1, E. Robertson
1, M. Shanks
2, Rachael Coull
2, Amanda Gavin
2, M.C. Mitchell
2, Amanda Gavin
2, Gail Shanks
3, Marie Shanks
3, Joanne Coull
3 C. Cunningham
3, Marie Shanks
3 Jennifer Jardine
3 C. Cunningham
3 G. Cunningham
1, Amanda Gavin 2 C. Cunningham 3, E. Robertson
3, M. Shanks
Secondary
School netball
1, Gillian Cunningham, Stacey
Lawrence, Cheryl
Cunningham Susan Watson &
Leah Devlin
1, Kirsty Millar, Kathryn Sloan,
Leanne Wright & Stacey
McLaren
2, Megan Dunbar, Isobel
Dunbar, Karyly Rogers,
Stacey Sinnet & Michelle
Lindsay
2, Gayle Shanks, Mhari
Shanks, Louise Ralston &
Michelle Alexander
32

Photos became more of a feature in the
Courier – we do not have copies but they were captioned thus:
Fun in the sun at Blackridge
For the off… the races get under way at
Blackridge Gala Day as these excited youngsters enjoy all the fun of a day out… and family fun in the sun in the case of Blackridge Gala Day 1999 as parents and children alike enjoy a glimpse of the much elusive sunshine which graced their special day.
The people of Blackridge have been congratulating themselves their Gala Day was on Saturday, June 26. For it has been the only dry Saturday to date for the
1999 gala season. Blackridge doesn’t choose a gala queen, which means everyone can star on the day. A spokesman for the gala committee said that the races could have been better supported by older youngsters “But that’s the case ac ross West Lothian,” he said. And he added, “We couldn’t have been luckier. We had great weather, people turned out, and they all seemed to have a good time. What more do you ask for on our one special day a year?”
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EXTRACTS FROM THE GALA DAY COMMITTEE MINUTE BOOK
Extract from Minute book for 23 rd June 1936
The committee of Blackridge,
Westrigg and Westcraigs children’s Gala Day met in the
Gala Day hut with H. Deans as president over 24 members.
The treasurer intimated that last year’s purvey was for 3,300 bags, 350 pies, 350 sandwiches and 100 gallons of milk. A motion was moved to order the same and for it to be disbursed same as last year. A. Russell,
W. Prentice, R. Blair and J.
Lambie along with the Eastern
Star Ladies were appointed to feed the children at the park.
All committee members, as far as possible, to be at the school for 10.45 to assist in the arranging of the walk. Bands were to walk in the following order: 1 st City of Edinburgh Silver Band, 2 nd Stewart and Lloyds Pipe Band, 3 rd
Armadale Silver Band and 4 th Harthill Welfare Pipe Band.
W. Matthews and J. Prentice were appointed to run the sports from the table, with R. Welsh in charge of football, Schoolteacher and R. Hardie for netball, J.
Adamson and C. Muir for Pillow fight. The starters for the races: W. Kincaid, M.
Lambie, A. Marshall and G. Steele. The judges for the races: G. Campbell, G.
Whitelaw and J. Montgomery.
All members of the committee were instructed to be at the field on Friday 26 th
June to arrange for the following day.
Extract from minute book for 28 September 1936
The AGM of Blackridge, Westrigg and Westcraigs Gala Day committee met on
28 th September in the Gala Day Hut with 20 members present.
The Chairman remarked on the excellent way everything has passed off at the
Gala Day under the adverse weather conditions but hoped that a better day would be had next year. He also complimented the Committee on the efficient way that they had carried out the duties allocated to them.
34

The Balance sheet was submitted for the Committee’s approval and was unanimously agreed. The financial statement showed a balance of £111-11/-.
J. Lambie, seconded by G. Steele, moved that the Officials be elected en mass and the following were agreed: President H. Deans, Vice President: K.
Mathieson, Secretary: J. Edwards and Minute Secretary: J. Prentice.
After discussion C. Muir, seconded by G. Steele, moved that same bands be engaged for next year’s Gala Day and this was agreed.
A lengthy discussion took place with regard to the Coronation due to take place in May 1937. It was moved by J. Tease, seconded by R. Baxter, that the
Committee wait on the Welfare Committee take the first step in that direction.
There being no further business the meeting was closed with a vote of thanks to the Chairman.
Extract from minute book for 22 nd February 1937
An intimation has been received from a member of the Welfare
Committee that no steps had been taken regarding the upcoming Coronation so G. Whitelaw proposed, seconded by
F. Marshall, that the
Gala Day Committee takes the necessary steps to commemorate the occasion. An amendment was made as Coronation Day was not recognised but it was agreed that the children should be treated at a later date. G. Campbell suggested that a day be held similar to Jubilee celebrations, i.e. a miniature Gala Day with a bonfire and fireworks. This was agreed and officials were appointed.
Extract from minute book for 22 nd June 1938
Number of Gala Day tickets issued is 963. Motion to purchase a total of 3,300 bags and disburse as follows:
Armadale Co-op Society = 1,800 bags, 4½ lbs tea and 30lbs sugar
West Benhar Co-op Society = 1,000 bags and 100 gallons milk
Frank Brown = 550 bags, 350 pies and 350 sandwiches
J Bryce was appointed as convenor for feeding the children.
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Extract from Minute Book for 29 th February 1940
After a lengthy discussion it was moved by W. Matthews and seconded by J.
Lambie that a Sports Day be held on the last Saturday in June 1940 to celebrate the Coronation. Children to gather at the recreation park for afternoon sports. Tea to be served and all races confined only to schoolchildren.
Extract from Minute Book for 28 th May 1940
Owing to insufficient attendance of Committee members a unanimous decision was arrived at that the present meeting be postponed until 10 th June 1940 and discuss whether a Sports Day be carried through on last Saturday in June or abandoned for this year. Members to be notified on new meeting.
Extract from Minute Book of 10 June 1940
Decision taken at reconvened meeting of 28 th May to adhere to the decision taken on 29 th February and the Sports day will go ahead.
Extract from Minute book for 17 th June 1940
A letter was read from Stewarts and Lloyds pipe band stating that a few of their members were in the forces so they had to decline from taking part in the Gala
Day this year.
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Extract from Minute Book dated 24 th June 1940
A letter was received from Mrs Tennant of Bedlormie house refusing to give a donation towards the Gala Day fund and asking the Committee to cancel the
Children’s Gala Day due to the current warfare.
900 bags to be purchased for this year and the children to be fed at 5 o’clock.
Notices to be put in various shops and public places to advise of same. Price of bag to be increased to 4½d. Bags to consist of 3 cakes @ 1d, 1 chocolate biscuit @ 1d and 1 bun @ ½d. Names of any sick children to be given to
Treasurer who would receive a gift as in previous years.
Extract from Minute Book dated 24 th July 1940
The president intimated that the Children’s sports day had passed off satisfactory with the exception of a shortage of bags. This is because last years
Gala Day tickets had been handed to collectors who had exchanged them for bags. It was therefore decided that new tickets be printed f or the Children’s
Gala Day.
Extract from Minute Book dated 18 th June 1941
The treasurer indicated that, owing to a Blitz at Greenock, West Benhar were unable to purvey for the children’s Gala Day due to the scarcity of sugar. A discussion then took place regarding a Sports Day for Children and if possible to try to give them a bag with 2 buns in it. A motion was made by R. Hardie and seconded by R. Baxter that the Gala Day be postponed for the duration of the war. An amendment by J. Adamson, seconded by J. Lambie, that a Sports Day for the children be organised instead. This motion was carried 13 votes to 5.
Extract from Minute book dated 1 st July 1942
A meeting was organised to decide of there was to be a
Gala Day in 1942. After discussion it was decided that the Gala Day would go ahead and date was fixed for 8 th August 1942.
Extract from Minute Book dated 8 th August 1942.
Emergency meeting took place in school due to the inclement weather. Sports could not take place and new date of 15 th August
1942 arranged weather permitting.
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Extract from Minute book dated 4 th June 1945
As the war had ended it was proposed that the Gala Day this year be a Victory
Gala Day and the motion was carried. The Victory Gala Day would be for local children only.
Extract from Minute book dated 19 th May 1947
The committee discussed how many bands should participate in the Gala Day.
Two bands were suggested by the secretary then P. Rankin suggested 3 bands. The Committee then agreed that there should be 2 pipe bands and 1 brass band; however the committee had received terms from 3 brass bands. It was then decided that the terms for both Armadale Silver and Whitburn Silver band be accepted. The Secretary was waiting the terms of other pipe bands to be discussed at the next meeting.
Extract from Minute Book dated 3 rd June 1947
The bands confirmed for the Gala Day are Coatbridge Argyle Pipe Band,
Armadale silver Band and Whitburn silver Band.
Extract of Minute Book dated 19 th April 1948
The venue of the Gala Day committee changed from the Gala Day Hut to the
Welfare Hall due to a fire in the Gala Day hut.
Extract of Minute
Book dated 17 th May
1948
The Secretary called the meeting to bring to the notice of the committee that a great for the field. New netting had to be purchased and Mr Morton to be approached about stabs and trestles for the field. Collection to be taken by boys club on day of Gala Day was to go to infirmary as usual but an amendment was then made that the collection should go to the Gala Day funds to purchase new equipment due to the fire at the Gala Day hut.
Extract of Minute Book dated 8 th June 1948
The Cooperative could not provide any cars for the Children’s Gala Day due to the petrol shortage but J. Brown’s Quarries, W. Hardie, Murray and Hunter were sending motors.
38 deal of equipment had been lost due to the
Gala Day Hut being burned. The Secretary and Treasurer were asked to enquire about hiring a marquee tent

Extract of Minute Book dated 12 th June 1948
Mr G. Whitelaw and Mr D. Welsh reported that Armadale Co-op would need an allocation of cooking fats to supply the Gala Day with 300 bags due to rationing.
Extract of Minute Book dated 3 rd April 1950
Lengthy discussions took place as to how many bands would do for the Gala
Day. Mr Currie thought that 3 bands would be enough but Mr Whitelaw thought
2 bands. It was decided to wait and see the price of the bands. The Secretary was to arrange for an advert to be placed in the Coatbridge Advertiser and the
West Lothian Courier. It was also agreed for an advert to be placed for a Dance band to take place on both the Eve and the night of the Gala Day.
It was decided that new Gala Day tickets should be printed with different colours for both visitor’s tickets and residents’ tickets. Mr Sneddon suggested that there should be a loud speaker for the park on the Gala Day so the Secretary to approach Mr Barras or Mr Love to see if they could supply the Committee with a loud speaker.
Extract of Minute Book dated 7 th June 1950
Mr Currie reported that Mr Farquhar had made arrangements for five-a-sides and Mr Barras and Mr Miller would referee such matches at the school.
Mr Currie suggested that the ice cream vans get into the field for the sum of 30/- and Mr Miller was appointed to take this collection from each van and place
39

them in the bottom of the field. No charge was to be made to village ice cream vans but donations must be given.
Prize money to be increased for sports as follows:
Boys Events 1 st 2 nd 3 rd
6 years 7 years
8 years 9 years
10 years 11 years 12 years
9d
1/-
6d
9d
3d
6d
1/6 1/3 1/-
13 years 14 years 15 years
3-leg race 9 years – 11 years
3-leg race 12 years – 15 years
Sack race
Obstacle race 9 years – 11 years
Obstacle race 12 years – 15 years
Relay Race
2/-
3/-
4/-
3/-
3/-
3/-
8/-
1/6 1/-
2/-
3/-
2/-
2/-
2/-
6/-
1/-
2/-
1/-
1/6
1/6
4/-
Championship race all ages
Pillow fight
Boot and Shoe all ages
Football 9-11 years 12-15 years
High Jump
Consolation 7 years – 11 years
Consolation 12 years – 15 years
Marathon ‘badge’
10/- 7/6 2/6
5/-
2/-
£1
5/-
3/-
4/-
3/-
1/6 1/-
15/-
3/-
2/-
3/-
2/-
2/-
1/-
2/-
1/6
30/- 20/- 12/6 7/6
Girls Events
Netball 9 years – 11 years
21/- 14/-
Netball 12 years – 15 years
28/- 21/-
Badge for girl’s championship
The committee agreed to ask
Mrs Rankine, Mrs Barras, Mrs
Miller and Mrs Drinnan if they would give their services at the park.
Any schoolboys wishing to enter the marathon should give their names to the schoolmaster or the Gala Day Secretary.
Betty Van-Nuil (Kefferty) winning the Girls Championship 1955
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Extract from Minute Book dated 23 April 1951
J Adamson reminded about the children from Wallhouse being brought up for the Gala Day. The committee unanimously decided that special races would be run for them.
Extract from Minute Book dated 15 th May 1951
Secretary has received a letter from Wallhouse accepting the invitation and stated that there would be 25 children with 5 staff.
Extract from Minute book dated 10 th March 1953
The AGM of the Gala Day committee took place and officers were elected as follows: President: Mr William Currie, Treasurer: Mr Alex Sturrocks, Secretary:
Mr Peter Rankin and minute
Secretary: Mr James Mackay.
Extract from Minute book dated 10 th May 1954
Secretary had received notice that the Westrigg Public Park would not be available for the
Gala Day. It was therefore agreed that the Gala Day procession would commence at Heights Road to Westrigg, to Westcraigs and then to school via Main Street.
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REFLECTIONS ON GALA DAYS PAST
Councillor Stuart Borrowman
I remember my parents' admiration for the committee who came round every week with sweep tickets. I was too young to understand it at the time but now realise these people put in endless hours to enable other people to have a good time.
I recall the railings at our house in Meadowview being painted each year for the Gala
Day and my fear of leaning on them before they were dry.
One year it turned out to be more than just fear.
Also, the shame of being short with a passback at the five-asides final and costing us a goal and the look my cousin
Robert gave me for it.
Councillor Isabel Hutton
Blackridge Gala Day holds many special memories for me from my teens onwards. I can recall the anticipation of my friends in Blackridge of wondering if the weather be like? What would they / we wear and, more importantly, what would be in the Food Bags. The excitement would build of what shows will be there, which was usually a speedway and a few stalls, in latter years this would change.
The races, in particular could be hilarious especially when you had family competing against family and other families to get the few bob to spend on the shows. The park would be packed full of families picnicking when the weather was good, sharing with friends and families who had visited the village on the Gala Day.
All credit to past organisers and present organisers for the time they give their time up to allow people like me to hold fabulous memories of
Blackridge Gala Days.
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Courier Correspondent, Sadie Montgomery
When I moved to Blackridge over 40 years ago the Gala day here wasn't the sort I was used to. No Queen and court, which was always the highlight of our
Gala day. However, when the children came along, Blackridge was always going to be their Gala day so along with several other young mums we decided to do something about that.
We had a Knitting Bee when the fathers baby-sat and the group of us met in each other’s houses on a Thursday night. Sometimes I must confess there wasn't much knitting done. We started putting 10 pence each away every week to help decorate a float for the Gala day. Kirkwood’s farm kindly gave us the use of a tractor and trailer {the silage trailer, so that the kids wouldn't fall off}.
We had to wait till the silage had been collected then clean the trailer before we could start. Our first effort was The Knitted Bees when the kids and parents were dressed in hand knitted brown and yellow striped tank tops. {See they are back in fashion again} This was the first of several floats we entered throughout the years and were successful on the prize front too.
Then we thought we would make some bunting to decorate the square in
Drummond Place so any dresses, shirts, pyjamas etc. that were too small were cut into triangles and rectangles before being stitched to tape. This was strung from window to window across the square with the children looking for what were once their items of clothing.
What fun this all was - not just for the children but for the adults too.
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ASPIRATIONS FOR GALA DAYS FUTURE
We asked the children of Blackridge Primary School to tell us what they want to see in the Gala Day and they came up with a large number of suggestions which the committee did not have time to implement this year but which will give them targets for years to come.
We had only asked for ideas but the children came back to us with a great many drawings to illustrate their points. Unfortunately, this booklet, being in black & white, cannot adequately convey the vibrancy of the drawings but we hope that the enthusiasm for the Gala Days yet to come will help inspire children young and old.
The drawings were adjudged for inclusion by teachers from outwith Blackridge
School and we could only show a small selection here, we couldn’t feature everyone who sent us drawings and their thoughts. We thank all of the children at Blackridge Primary and their teachers for all of their hard work.
Primary 1’s Sophie wants to give everybody goodie bags and a free ride and a circus
Also in Primary 1 -
Aimee suggested that there could be a horse roundabout.
Arianna would like face-painting and football.
Ben wants good bags.
Callum drew Spiderman and Batman throwing sweets from a float.
Catherine drew a tiger, a bear and a decorated house.
44

Charlie would like to see a decorated motorbike and men throwing sweets.
Connor wants a weight lifting competition and a motor bike race.
David wants to dress up as Ben 10.
Jack drew a decorated truck with clowns.
Justine wants girls to dress up as queens.
Keris drew a fairy and queens.
Lee drew a football game.
Mark would like a van, a clown and a police car.
Morag would like to dress up as a bridesmaid.
Natalie drew a fairy with her wings.
Nicole drew a trapeze and would like to see a circus.
Rachael drew a clown, as she wants clowns to make people laugh.
Scott wants to go on a truck, which he drew.
Primary 2’s Charlotte would like pets on the Gala Day; it would be cool and fun
Also in Primary 2 -
Aaron would like a king and queen.
Abbie would like to see more flags in the Gala Day, as they are fun to hold.
Aime would like to see a robot and to get sweets.
Jamie drew a multi-coloured float.
Josh drew a colourful float.
Julia drew sweets, money, flags and a stretch limo.
45

Keegan would like to see races at the Gala
Day.
Kelsey would like to see a dragon float in the Gala Day.
Lewis drew a purple float on a sunny day.
Megan drew a very colourful float.
Ryan would like to see an egg and spoon race.
Robbie drew a big red float.
Sebastian wants a water cannon.
Stephen drew a pirate float.
Also in Primary 3 –
Amy would like facepainting.
Amy H would like shows and drew a Big
Wheel.
Cara would like horses
Primary 3’s Rachael would like the shows back, please and a trampoline at the Gala Day.
Charlie would like bouncy castles because they are fun and would like to do racing and face painting.
Dylan would like football and silly string.
Jack D would like football, trampoline, leap frog, swimming pool, slide wall, shows, bands and ice cream van.
Jack M wants some hopping races, jumping races and a trampoline.
Jodi would like face paintings.
Jordana would like the horses out this year with a carriage.
Katie would like to see a police car and a fire engine and would like to wear the police and fire uniforms. In the fire engine, she would like to put in a video unit.
Matthew drew the parade on a sunny day.
Molly would like a bouncy castle, a trampoline with a net, a horse, facepainting, a sweetie stall and a horse & carriage.
Scott would like a face paint of a tiger.
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Primary 4’s Jade had an exceedingly colourful two-sided painting of dancers at the
Gala Day and would like prizes at the races and more shows
Also in Primary 4 -
Caitlyn drew all of the classes on floats with different themes.
Chloe ’s painting showed the waltzers, go karts and a sticky wall.
Craig drew Power Rangers, Spongebob and Batman.
Declan would like to see a Star Wars float, more bands and a bouncy castle.
Emma said we should win prizes if we win a race, every class could have a float, we could book more shows, someone could throw sweets out of a bag, people could dress as Spongebob, some people could dress as a fairy and we could have a barbeque.
Jack wanted to see Spiderman, Spongebob, Patrick Star and Sandy Cheeks at the Gala Day. He also wants to see dodgems.
Joshua wants to see High School Musical, Sky High, Peter Pan, Power
Rangers, Thunderbirds, Who wants to be a Superhero, Spongebob, Batman and the Simpsons.
Katelyn had drawings of sweets being thrown from a float, a gala queen, racing and shows.
Leah would like to see a flowers parade.
Michaela wants toys to buy a merry go round, more shows, barbeque for little ones and people dressed up as Bratz.
Natalie would like a gala queen and football.
Nicola painted the Cool Cat Girls on a float.
Rachel wants Queen Cleopatra.
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Hogwarts was the theme for many -
Billy drew a Hogwarts float.
Courtney painted a Hogwarts float and would like to see floats on school topics.
Georgia drew Hogwarts, sweets, shows and a treasure hunt.
Madison drew a Hogwarts School float.
Marie drew a Hogwarts Express float.
Meg drew a Hogwarts float but also sought trophies for race prizes, sweets being thrown for people and also a barbeque.
Rachel drew a Hogwarts Express float for P4.
Victoria drew a Harry Potter float and would like to see some animals and more shows.
Also in Primary 5 -
Connor wrote - for the Gala Day this year, I would like many people to dress up like schoolchildren and schoolchildren dress up like adults. I would like to see more floats and a float like a pirate ship, and a float like a U.F.O.. I would like the school to dress up too. At the park, I would like a bouncy castle as well.
David drew a float and commented that it would be great to see this picture at
Blackridge Gala Day. He would feel really proud to see it with my family in real life.
Leona wrote that at Blackridge
Gala Day this year I would like more shows and to put in flower girls. She drew some shows and said that it would be very good to get all these and make it
Primary 5’s Brooke wrote, “At the Gala Day, I would like to see more people as more people equals more fun. At the park we could maybe raise some money for more rides because it gets a little boring. Not too boring though!
I would love to see the sun shining every year because every year it rains really, really heavily. Everyone has an umbrella” better.
Megan
Day
thought that every Gala there has been in
Blackridge has been great but thought that it could be a little better. She said that sometimes she felt sorry for the people watching and the people that decide to join in but have to walk. She thought that there could be stalls at the side and floats for more people to get round.
48

Michaela drew a Ferris wheel and said that we need more shows for ages like
7 to 14 that will be better for us. If we get rides and roller coasters, that would be good fun.
Nicole said that this year the Gala Day should have more police because teenagers are drinking and throwing stuff at the floats and hitting people. She thought that they are being silly.
Stacey wrote - for this year’s Gala Day, I would really enjoy it if some more fun, fabulous roller coaster were there. I would also like there to be more floats – if you se e it my way, I’m sure you’ll understand.
Primary 6’s Arran asked that we take part and hold a flag and would like to see ‘throw a dart and win a prize’, a slide, a trampoline and a beautiful baby contest.
Also in Primary 6 -
Caitlyn wrote – this year at the Gala Day, I would like to see a slide, a trampoline, ice cream, ghost train, sack race, football for over 40’s, spin to win and Fake Elvis and his band on a float.
Chloe would like to see girls from P6 and P7 dress up in dresses and put a crown on and there to be one princess and one queen sitting on either side.
She would also like to see babies over 1 to have a toy car with cardboard over it and all decorated.
Demi looked for P6 girls and boys to dress up as disco divas. One P6 girl to be gala queen, P7 girls to be people from a scary sleepover and P7 boys to be robots. She would also like to see a water chute and a swimming pool with a
49

sun umbrella. She would like to see a Gala Queen and King in Andy
Campbell’s horse and carriage.
Emma wrote – this year at the Gala Day, I would like to see an ice cream stall, a hula van, a fun house, a gala queen and a brolly store (just in case) and within the brolly store we can have rain ponchos as well. We could have a float with
Blackridge school on it. We could hit adults with pies (or wet sponges) too.
Leeanne said – you can go on a float when you are 11 or 20 years old. I would like to see the nursery dress up as princesses and would like to see P7 dressed up as devils. And I would like a gala king and queen and would like a teachers contest.
Lewis had a list which included 20 years or under sack race, fizzy drinks, win a prize shop, the smartest teacher contest, a water slide, an Elvis competition, a gala queen, lost of shows and races, a fun house and ice cream and many others.
Lucy wrote – at this years Gala day, I would like to see a gala queen, an ice cream stall, a best talent competition for under 50s – if you win you get a trophy.
I would like to see P6 and P7 on a float.
Primary 7’s Claire drew a float with Happy 100 th and athletes on an obstacle course
Natalie would like to see the P1 boys dress up as devils and the P1 girls dress up as fairies. P2 boys dress up as Superman and P2 girls as Bratz. P3, P4 and P5 dress up as zombies, vampire s and ghosts and P7 and P7’s dress up as disco divas (even boys). All classes to walk along with their teachers.
50

Pauline said – at this years Gala Day, I want a band to play Auld Lang Syne. I want the village people to play twinkle, twinkle, little star for the nursery. I want there to be a cat walk and I want P6 to have a float with a queen and king and all the rest of the class can be naughty school kids. On the park, I want a water slide and a steep slide for 8 to 16.
Rebecca wanted the school to dress up as anything and would like to see sweetie stalls, a gala queen, sack race and rope competition.
Also in Primary 7 -
Catherine would like to see bands
Chloe thought that the school should decorate a float or dress up
Clare would like an obstacle course for the Gala Day and at the end of the day the person that does it the quickest wins a prize
Jade wants an obstacle course
Kelsey would like to see more shows
Jennifer had a number of suggestions
1. My first suggestion is that we could get a big barbeque
2. You could ask a steel band to play
3. You could add a gala queen
4. They should have a dressing up theme e.g. 60’s, cowboys & Indians, under the sea, school-kids, neon, all in white
5. You could add a sports day
6. It should be more of a carnival atmosphere
7. We should have a big water fight at the end
Gemma told us – As a citizen of Blackridge, I take great interest in Blackridge
Gala Day and have done ever since I was a toddler. I have seen Blackridge’s procession shrink every year. There are races at the Gala Day park but the let down is what else is there (stalls, mini-waltzer, etc.) and I fear there may not be a 101 st anniversary of Blackridge Gala Day. So, therefore, I am asking for a few minor (or major) changes to our Gala Day park. My dad has lived in Blackridge all his life and has asked me to ask to liven up the park. A bit more stalls, maybe a few bouncy castle slides, (please keep the races going) a few, bit more adult-like skills, rides, etc. I know it will cost but I ask for one more thing.
Advertisement. Blackridge needs more advertising for the Gala Day because the procession’s audience is also decreasing but the kids are not taking part and getting all the fun receiving free sweets from people who spend their money. Thank you.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
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FINALLY, OUR THANKS TO -
Sybil Cavanagh from West Lothian Local History Library, West Lothian Courier editor John Murdoch, Lynn Woodside for extracts from the minute book and thanks for use of photographs to Tam Anderson, Robert Bell Collection, Tam
Bell, Rose Beresford, Liz Condie (Teasie), Betty Kefferty, Jim McGregor, Dan
Miller, Nan Miller, Andrew Sherlock, Betty Van-Nuil, Bobby Walker & Janice
Wood + anyone that we may have missed out – we really don’t want a rammy.
52