A variety of entertainment events are being held for the Winchburgh community this weekend (Saturday, May 21).
Organised by the Winchburgh Community Development Trust, the village is set to be a muster stop for the flotilla as part of celebrations to mark the 200th anniversary of the Union Canal opening.
Around 26 boats and vessels will muster 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 on the complete 31.5 mile route.
The Farmers’ Market, the second organised by the Winchburgh Community Development Trust, has been moved to the grounds of Winchburgh Church, close to bridge 32 on the canal to help mark this occasion.
Winchburgh’s very own artist-in-residence, Gill White, will be present to help residents express their creative side. Further entertainment includes face painting, music and dance performances.
The market will feature a number of stalls selling local produce from local game, fruit and vegetables to house interiors and wax melts.
The Flotilla 200 has been organised by Scottish Waterways for All and Scottish Canals, with various musters point along the route. The Winchburgh muster has been organised by the Winchburgh Community Development Trust with support from the Winchburgh Developments Ltd.
The fleet mustering at Winchburgh is due to arrive between 1pm and 2pm on Saturday 21st May.
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 really excited to be hosting our second Farmers’ Market and welcome groups who will be entertaining people with their performances.”
The flotilla mustering at Winchburgh will be led by a wide beam canal boat, the Panacea from The Sorted Project, a charity that supports men and women in recovery from substance use and mental health.
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 would like to thank Winchburgh Community Development Trust and Winchburgh Developments Ltd for all their help in bringing this to fruition and helping us all celebrate this important anniversary in the canal’s history.
“It’s a fine example of how volunteer groups, local communities and businesses can work together to everyone’s benefit.”
Penny Lochhead, Community Sports and Greenspace Manager, Winchburgh Developments Ltd, said: “This is a historic occasion for both the Union Canal as well as Winchburgh, and one we are thrilled to support.
“We would like to encourage all residents to join in the celebrations and enjoy the Farmers’ Market, while seeing the fleet of decorated vessels for themselves.”