New bus service is launched in area Ancre Somme group visit school pupils
A new temporary bus route has been announced to maintain transport links between Forth and Shotts to West Lothian.
The Blue Bus Company decided to cut the 71, 701 and 77 services earlier this year but SPT and Stuart’s Coaches have stepped in. SPT’s intervention will part subsidise the newly-extended Stuarts Coaches 34A service to operate from Lanark to Livingston via Shotts and Harthill. The extended service will run from December 23 until March 28 to analyse patronage and look for a more sustainable longterm solution. Chair of SPT Operations Committee David Wilson said: “Although not wholly within our area, SPT has recognised the impact the loss of these services could have on residents in Lanarkshire who travel to West Lothian for employment, educational or recreational purposes.” For details visit https://bustimes. org/ operators/ stuartscoaches
Ancre Somme Association Scotland paid a visit to pupils at Letham Primary in Livingston recently.
The children from P1 to P7 learned about the Queen, Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force, as well as hearing about WW1 and WW2 and local heritage.
They heard about the importance of remembrance and about a Royal Scots hero, William Angus VC who played for Celtic FC, and was wounded 40 times during the Great War.
When William was awarded the Victoria Cross at Buckingham Palace, King George V said: “Angus I hear you were wounded 40 times”.
Ever modest, William replied: “Aye sir, but only 13 of them were serious.”
The children also learned about Sgt Jimmy Speirs MM from Govan, Glasgow, another football legend, who played for Rangers FC, Bradford FC and Scotland.
They listened to ‘Jimmy’s Song’ by Alan Brydon and watched his life story.
Ancre Somme Association Scotland secretary, Tommy Davidson, said the visit was a big success.
He added: “These young people at Letham Primary were so interested in their local and national armed forces heritage.
“More and more schools are requesting visits throughout the year across Scotland, our charity will continue to reach out across the nation and sow the seeds of remembrance through education.
“Next year is the 75th anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day 75th.
“This is the generation that saved us from death and destruction.
“Plans are now underway to commemorate and celebrate these historic events.
“We would encourage schools and communities to create your local events now for the May 8, 9 and 10, 2020.
“It also the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain next year.
“We never want to repeat history, we must educate our youth of today.”
ASA Scotland works in partnership with West Lothian Council Museums Service.
They also network across Scotland working with various councils and schools.