Canal celebrations launch this weekend
A host of exciting events are being held this weekend as part of the Union Canal’s 200th anniversary.
Organised by the Winchburgh Community Development Trust, Winchburgh village is set to be a ‘muster’stop for the flotilla as part of celebrations to mark the 200th anniversary of the canal opening.
Around 26 boats and vessels will gather at Winchburgh on Saturday for the Flotilla 200, which will see two separate fleets sail from Edinburgh and the Falkirk Wheel to meet at Linlithgow.
The Farmers’Market has moved to the grounds of Winchburgh Church, close to bridge 32 on the canal to help mark this occasion.
Winchburgh’s artist-inresidence, Gill White, will be on hand to help residents express their creative side, while other entertainment includes face
painting, music, and dance performances.
The Flotilla 200 has been organised by Scottish Waterways for All and Scottish Canals, helped by local societies such as the
Linlithgow Union Canal Society. The fleet gathering at Winchburgh is due to arrive between 1pm and 2pm this Saturday.
Leigh Lauder, Development and Engagement Officer, Winchburgh
Community Development Trust, said: “We hope the people of Winchburgh will join the flotilla celebrations and as part of this, we are excited to be hosting our second Farmers’Market and welcome groups who will be entertaining people with their performances.”
Stuart Rennie, spokesperson for Scottish Waterways for All, said:“It is wonderful that the Winchburgh community will be able to play its part and enjoy Flotilla 200.
“We’d like to thank Winchburgh Community Development Trust and Winchburgh Developments Ltd for all their help in bringing this to fruition.
“It’s a fine example of how volunteer groups, local communities and businesses can work together to everyone’s benefit.”