Latest news with #Marches
Daily Record
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Trees set for chop across Stirling route to prepare for Walking of the Marches
An application has been made by council planners to chop back trees to accommodate flags within the parade - which is set for a route through city centre streets. Trees on the route of Stirling's annual traditional Walking of the Marches parade could be cut back to make sure standards literally won't have to be lowered. An application has been lodged by Stirling Council with their own planners seeking permission to chop back 'multiple' trees. The work would involve a proposed crown lift of around between three and five metres of some trees, using a manual pole saw only. The reason given for the work on the route is given as 'to accommodate flags in the parade', which takes place on Saturday May 31. The route of walking of the marches includes: The Rotunda, King's Street; Spittal Street; Bank Street; Baker Street; Friar Street; Barnton Street; Maxwell Place; Viewfield Street; Barnton Street; Maxwell Place; Viewfield Street; Barnton Street; Murray Place; Port Street; Dumbarton Road; Back Walk; Smith Art Gallery; Back Walk; Academy Road; St John Street; Cowane's Hospital. The streets of Stirling are expected to be packed at the end of the month as the city celebrates the tradition of Walking the Marches. This non-political event is free and open to all, celebrating a tradition dating back to the 12th Century which saw Stirling's boundaries inspected and maintained. This year, costumed historical re-enactors from Historia Normannis alongside Caledonia Combat's stuntmen will be helping to bring the period to life. The march will set off from the King Street rotunda at 10.45am and head up to Cowane's hospital. Locals are being asked to expect pipe bands, re-enactors and fun for visitors of all ages as well as crowds along the route and increased visitor numbers. A spokesperson for the organisers said: 'The Walking of the Marches is a tradition that is probably as old as Stirling, dating back to the days before accurate maps when it was necessary to check the burgh boundaries to ensure that no encroachment had taken place. As with other places across Scotland this tradition has developed into an inclusive community celebration of our heritage. 'Where most places ride their Marches, in Stirling we have always walked them; this was done by the Birlawmen, led by the Captain of the Birlawmen. 'Of course, it is no longer necessary to actually check all the boundaries but what we do is a modern interpretation of this tradition. The Birlawmen do check boundary points; the term Birlawman is no longer gender specific but it one of the many traditional terms that are still used and, like their predecessors, the Birlawmen still carry picks and shovels. 'Resplendent in their blue bonnets, the Captain takes reports from the Birlawmen that the Marches have been checked, are intact and have been marked in the traditional manner by the turning of turfs. This report is then conveyed to the Lord Provost, Lord Dean of Guild and Deacon Convenor of the Seven Incorporated Trades who are then invited to accompany the Birlawmen in a colourful celebratory procession through the city to the historic Cowane's Hospital where entertainment is provided.' The Walking of the Marches is a free event and open to all. More information can be found on the Walking the Marches Facebook page, or through Eventbrite.
Edinburgh Reporter
07-05-2025
- Politics
- Edinburgh Reporter
Holyrood constituencies change takes Linlithgow from West Lothian
A 'bizarre' change to the electoral boundaries which would see the historic county town of Linlithgow removed from West Lothian is facing opposition from angry local politicians. Boundaries Scotland has recommended welding the town into a new Falkirk East and Linlithgow constituency for the upcoming Holyrood elections – similar to the former Westminster constituency. The proposed move was branded a 'bizarre numbers game' by one veteran councillor, while another warned it would confuse people and put them off voting. If agreed by MSPs the plan will split West Lothian into three constituencies for the 2026 Holyrood election for the first time since the foundation of the Scottish Parliament in 1999. West Lothian's SNP MSPs have been urged not to support the boundary changes when the proposals come before them this month. Other options, including one moving Whitburn and Fauldhouse into a constituency centred on Airdrie 14 miles to the west, have already been rejected after public consultation. At a meeting of West Lothian Council's Executive, anger was expressed that no public meeting had been held in Linlithgow to debate the proposals. Councillor Sally Pattle told the meeting: 'Let's not forget it is Linlithgowshire. I just don't feel, and people I represent don't feel as if we have had our chance to put our case forward. We're just so disappointed that our history, our feelings and normal allegiances haven't been taken into account. 'It has been a very frustrating and lengthy process. I am slightly concerned it is [not only] going to confuse people but also turn a lot of people off in next year's Holyrood elections because they are not going to feel as if they really understand where they are voting for in Linlithgow. Labour's Tom Conn said he was 'extremely disappointed at a bizarre numbers game'. Councillor Conn said it was 'ironic that the decision had been made as the town prepared for its historic Marches.' 'I just want to record my extreme disappointment at the Boundary Commission's failure to take into account Linlithgow's particular circumstances and historical associations,' he said. 'It was the county town of Linlithgowshire [ West Lothian's original name]. * He added: 'It will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament, and I would certainly hope that our local parliamentary representatives in West Lothian will take that into account.' The SNP's Pauline Orr said: 'I can appreciate how disappointing this change of boundaries is, it is never easy. What I can say is there have been multiple conversations, meetings and discussion opportunities to put down concerns in writing locally.' Council leader Lawrence Fitzpatrick told the meeting that he had attended a very busy hearing to discuss the Whitburn proposal and added: 'I did find it surprising that a hearing was not held in Linlithgow. They should have held a hearing in Linlithgow. I'm sure it would have been well attended.' Boundaries Scotland said that after a meeting in Falkirk to discuss the proposal 'the Commission agreed that a further local inquiry was not justified.' Also time constraints around the publication of the latest review by 1 May prevented the chance of another public meeting, the commissioners said. Publication of the plans produced mixed responses on social media. Dechmont Community, writing on the West Lothian Council website said: 'Costing more MONEY.' Another said: 'Falkirk's not West Lothian! And another: 'There should be less not more' Others pointed to the geographic rather than political boundaries: 'How can South Alloa, Slammanan, Polmont, etc be classed as West Lothian. 'Bo'ness was part of West Lothian until 1976. The great boundary change. Central Region Council. Ahh the days.' West Lothian will split between three Scottish Parliamentary constituencies, which are: Almond Valley constituency Bathgate constituency Falkirk East and Linlithgow constituency Both West Lothian and Falkirk councils objected to the plans for a joint constituency, for similar reasons. West Lothian Council said the proposed Falkirk East and Linlithgow constituency broke with historical, employment, educational, leisure, health, geographical, transport and community ties. West Lothian called for two constituencies to cover the council area. That alternative would result in constituencies with just over 73,000 voters in each. Boundaries Scotland is trying to achieve constituencies of around 65,000. Boundaries Scotland said that would put the two proposed West Lothian too far above the electoral quota recommended for each constituency. The council also objected to West Lothian being moved away from its neighbouring Lothians constituencies into a new Central Scotland and Lothians West region. The new regions are again determined by changing populations and each has around 500,000 voters. On the publication of the latest review Prof Ailsa Henderson, Chair of Boundaries Scotland, said: 'Our review commenced on 1 September 2022 and sought to address significant population movement within Scotland, including areas of substantial growth. 'We have held five rounds of consultation on constituencies, three rounds on regions and local inquiries where we have engaged with the public across Scotland. 'We have responded to the very helpful suggestions we received, amongst the nearly 5,000 submissions, by making changes to boundaries and names.' By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter Like this: Like Related
Daily Record
07-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily Record
Anger at 'bizarre' plan to take Linlithgow out of West Lothian's Holyrood constituency
Boundaries Scotland has recommended welding the town into a new Falkirk East and Linlithgow constituency for the upcoming Holyrood elections - similar to the former Westminster constituency. A 'bizarre' change to the electoral boundaries which would see the historic county town of Linlithgow removed from West Lothian is facing opposition from angry local politicians. Boundaries Scotland has recommended welding the town into a new Falkirk East and Linlithgow constituency for the upcoming Holyrood elections - similar to the former Westminster constituency. The proposed move was branded a 'bizarre numbers game' by one veteran councillor, while another warned it would confuse people and put them off voting. If agreed by MSPs the plan will split West Lothian into three constituencies for the 2026 Holyrood election for the first time since the foundation of the Scottish Parliament in 1999. West Lothian's SNP MSPs have been urged not to support the boundary changes when the proposals come before them this month. Other options, including one moving Whitburn and Fauldhouse into a constituency centred on Airdrie 14 miles to the west, have already been rejected after public consultation. At a meeting of West Lothian Council's Executive, anger was expressed that no public meeting had been held in Linlithgow to debate the proposals. Councillor Sally Pattle told the meeting: 'Let's not forget it is Linlithgowshire. I just don't feel, and people I represent don't feel as if we have had our chance to put our case forward. We're just so disappointed that our history, our feelings and normal allegiances haven't been taken into account. 'It has been a very frustrating and lengthy process. I am slightly concerned it is [not only] going to confuse people but also turn a lot of people off in next year's Holyrood elections because they are not going to feel as if they really understand where they are voting for in Linlithgow. Labour's Tom Conn said he was 'extremely disappointed at a bizarre numbers game'. Councillor Conn said it was 'ironic that the decision had been made as the town prepared for its historic Marches.' ' I just want to record my extreme disappointment at the Boundary Commission's failure to take into account Linlithgow's particular circumstances and historical associations,' he said. 'It was the county town of Linlithgowshire [ West Lothian's original name].* He added: 'It will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament and I would certainly hope that our local parliamentary representatives in West Lothian will take that into account.' The SNP's Pauline Orr said: 'I can appreciate how disappointing this change of boundaries is, it is never easy. What I can say is there have been multiple conversations, meetings and discussion opportunities to put down concerns in writing locally.' Council leader Lawrence Fitzpatrick told the meeting that he had attended a very busy hearing to discuss the Whitburn proposal and added: 'I did find it surprising that a hearing was not held in Linlithgow. They should have held a hearing in Linlithgow. I'm sure it would have been well attended.' Boundaries Scotland said that after a meeting in Falkirk to discuss the proposal 'the Commission agreed that a further local inquiry was not justified.' Also time constraints around the publication of the latest review by 1 May prevented the chance of another public meeting, the commissioners said. Publication of the plans produced mixed responses on social media. Dechmont Community, writing on the West Lothian Council website said: 'Costing more MONEY.' Another said: 'Falkirk's not West Lothian! And another: ' There should be less not more' Others pointed to the geographic rather than political boundaries: 'How can South Alloa, Slammanan, Polmont, etc be classed as West Lothian. 'Bo'ness was part of West Lothian until 1976. The great boundary change. Central Region Council. Ahh the days.' West Lothian will split between three Scottish Parliamentary constituencies, which are Almond Valley constituency; Bathgate constituency and Falkirk East and Linlithgow constituency. Both West Lothian and Falkirk councils objected to the plans for a joint constituency, for similar reasons. West Lothian Council said the proposed Falkirk East and Linlithgow constituency broke with historical, employment, educational, leisure, health, geographical, transport and community ties. West Lothian called for two constituencies to cover the council area. That alternative would result in constituencies with just over 73,000 voters in each. Boundaries Scotland is trying to achieve constituencies of around 65,000. Boundaries Scotland said that would put the two proposed West Lothian too far above the electoral quota recommended for each constituency. The council also objected to West Lothian being moved away from its neighbouring Lothians constituencies into a new Central Scotland and Lothians West region. The new regions are again determined by changing populations and each has around 500,000 voters. On the publication of the latest review Prof Ailsa Henderson, Chair of Boundaries Scotland, said: 'Our review commenced on 1 September 2022 and sought to address significant population movement within Scotland, including areas of substantial growth. 'We have held five rounds of consultation on constituencies, three rounds on regions and ni e local inquiries where we have engaged with the public across Scotland. 'We have responded to the very helpful suggestions we received, amongst the nearly 5,000 submissions, by making changes to boundaries and names.'
Edinburgh Live
07-05-2025
- Politics
- Edinburgh Live
Anger at 'bizarre' plan to take Linlithgow out of West Lothian's Holyrood constituency
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info A 'bizarre' change to the electoral boundaries which would see the historic county town of Linlithgow removed from West Lothian is facing opposition from angry local politicians. Boundaries Scotland has recommended welding the town into a new Falkirk East and Linlithgow constituency for the upcoming Holyrood elections - similar to the former Westminster constituency. The proposed move was branded a 'bizarre numbers game' by one veteran councillor, while another warned it would confuse people and put them off voting. If agreed by MSPs the plan will split West Lothian into three constituencies for the 2026 Holyrood election for the first time since the foundation of the Scottish Parliament in 1999. West Lothian's SNP MSPs have been urged not to support the boundary changes when the proposals come before them this month. Other options, including one moving Whitburn and Fauldhouse into a constituency centred on Airdrie 14 miles to the west, have already been rejected after public consultation. At a meeting of West Lothian Council's Executive, anger was expressed that no public meeting had been held in Linlithgow to debate the proposals. Councillor Sally Pattle told the meeting: 'Let's not forget it is Linlithgowshire. I just don't feel, and people I represent don't feel as if we have had our chance to put our case forward. We're just so disappointed that our history, our feelings and normal allegiances haven't been taken into account. 'It has been a very frustrating and lengthy process. I am slightly concerned it is [not only] going to confuse people but also turn a lot of people off in next year's Holyrood elections because they are not going to feel as if they really understand where they are voting for in Linlithgow. Labour's Tom Conn said he was 'extremely disappointed at a bizarre numbers game'. Councillor Conn said it was "ironic that the decision had been made as the town prepared for its historic Marches." ' I just want to record my extreme disappointment at the Boundary Commission's failure to take into account Linlithgow's particular circumstances and historical associations," he said. "It was the county town of Linlithgowshire [ West Lothian's original name].* He added: 'It will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament and I would certainly hope that our local parliamentary representatives in West Lothian will take that into account.' The SNP's Pauline Orr said: 'I can appreciate how disappointing this change of boundaries is, it is never easy. What I can say is there have been multiple conversations, meetings and discussion opportunities to put down concerns in writing locally.' Council leader Lawrence Fitzpatrick told the meeting that he had attended a very busy hearing to discuss the Whitburn proposal and added: 'I did find it surprising that a hearing was not held in Linlithgow. They should have held a hearing in Linlithgow. I'm sure it would have been well attended.' Boundaries Scotland said that after a meeting in Falkirk to discuss the proposal 'the Commission agreed that a further local inquiry was not justified.' Also time constraints around the publication of the latest review by 1 May prevented the chance of another public meeting, the commissioners said. Publication of the plans produced mixed responses on social media. Dechmont Community, writing on the West Lothian Council website said: 'Costing more MONEY." Another said: "Falkirk's not West Lothian! And another: ' There should be less not more' Others pointed to the geographic rather than political boundaries: 'How can South Alloa, Slammanan, Polmont, etc be classed as West Lothian. 'Bo'ness was part of West Lothian until 1976. The great boundary change. Central Region Council. Ahh the days.' West Lothian will split between three Scottish Parliamentary constituencies, which are: Almond Valley constituency Bathgate constituency Falkirk East and Linlithgow constituency Both West Lothian and Falkirk councils objected to the plans for a joint constituency, for similar reasons. West Lothian Council said the proposed Falkirk East and Linlithgow constituency broke with historical, employment, educational, leisure, health, geographical, transport and community ties. West Lothian called for two constituencies to cover the council area. That alternative would result in constituencies with just over 73,000 voters in each. Boundaries Scotland is trying to achieve constituencies of around 65,000. Boundaries Scotland said that would put the two proposed West Lothian too far above the electoral quota recommended for each constituency. The council also objected to West Lothian being moved away from its neighbouring Lothians constituencies into a new Central Scotland and Lothians West region. The new regions are again determined by changing populations and each has around 500,000 voters. On the publication of the latest review Prof Ailsa Henderson, Chair of Boundaries Scotland, said: 'Our review commenced on 1 September 2022 and sought to address significant population movement within Scotland, including areas of substantial growth. 'We have held five rounds of consultation on constituencies, three rounds on regions and nine local inquiries where we have engaged with the public across Scotland. 'We have responded to the very helpful suggestions we received, amongst the nearly 5,000 submissions, by making changes to boundaries and names.'
Powys County Times
05-05-2025
- Automotive
- Powys County Times
Woodpecker Rally confirms Newtown as 2025 base once again
The Phil Price Memorial Woodpecker Rally is set to return in 2025, with Newtown remaining its base. Following the successful transition from Ludlow in 2024, the rally will again take place in the Welsh town on August 30. The event will incorporate stages renowned worldwide, Myherin and Hafren, both made famous by the Wales Rally GB. The rally, which was first run in 1983, is sponsored by the Phil Price Rally School. The shift to Newtown in 2024 was necessitated by the unavailability of the traditional English Marches stages, such as Haye Park and Hopton. The move, however, proved fruitful, and the rally is now capitalising on this momentum. The 2025 edition will introduce a new format, with crews contesting approximately 45 competitive miles through gravel stages. The fast, flowing roads of Myherin, which are seldom used, will be included. The technical challenges presented by Hafren will form the core of the event, with three of the four morning tests taking place in this popular forest complex. To minimise road miles and enhance the rally experience, servicing will be located at Llanidloes Rugby Club, providing easy access back into the forests for the afternoon run. The Britpart facility in Newtown, which served as the rally headquarters in 2024, will continue to host pre-event documentation, start, and finish celebrations. Chairman of the organising committee, Alan Corns, said: "After a great response to the 2024 edition, we've taken another step forward for this year. "Myherin and Hafren are some of the most respected gravel stages in the world, and we're thrilled to be bringing them into the heart of the Woodpecker Rally. "Britpart coming on board last year to host the rally base has really elevated what we can offer this year, and with Llanidloes Rugby Club supporting service, we've been able to streamline logistics for crews and make it a better experience all round. "While we still hope to return to Ludlow and the English stages one day, Newtown has welcomed us with open arms, and we're proud to call it home again for 2025." Additional event information, including entry and spectator details, will be announced in the coming months.
