Broxburn, Uphall and Winchburgh - news

First meeting set to take place of traders' association

The inaugural meeting of the Broxburn and Uphall Traders Association will take place in Strathbrock Community Centre at 6pm on Monday 18 August.

The purpose of the meeting is to formally establish the group to become an association.

All businesses in Broxburn and Uphall are invited to attend to have their say on how the association should develop and to suggest ways to improve the town centres.

For more information, contact Linda Owen on 01506 777430 or linda.owen@westlothian.gov.uk

Fabe award for young Uphall mum

A young Uphall mum who achieved her own personal goals through hard work and dedication has won the Tom Meek Award.

Creche worker Kara Wright improved her literacy skills, undertook open learning modules with West Lothian College and volunteered at her local youth club, all whilst juggling her commitments as mum to a young son.

The event was hosted by the Friends of Adult Basic Education charity (FABE).

The awards are named after the late Tom Meek, whose work as a dedicated volunteer tutor inspired many students to improve their learning.

Executive Councillor for Education, Andrew Miller, said: "The awards were a very uplifting evening, and showcased the dedication to adult learning from everyone involved from students through to staff and volunteers.

"Congratulations to Kara on clinching the Tom Meek trophy, although all seven nominees had inspiring stories to tell and fully deserve to be recognised for their achievements."

Volunteers wanted for race forum

Volunteers from all walks of life are wanted to have their say in promoting understanding and diversity in West Lothian.

The West Lothian Community Planning Partnership is looking for members for a community race forum in West Lothian.

Anyone wishing to get involved should contact the Community Planning Team on 01506 774035 or email susan.gordon@westlothian.gov.uk

Family centre responds to area's popularity

The increasing popularity of West Lothian as a home for people from Eastern Europe has led to a particular challenge for the Wee Nursery at Broxburn Family Centre.

For the last year has seen an increasing diversity in the ethnic mix of children attending, some of whom speak little or no English.

The centre's annual report shows that the growing demand for pre-school places is often stretching the facilities and staffing to the limit.

One of the solution's adopted by the family centre was the employment of a Polish play worker.

• English as a second language sessions have taken off at the centre this year, with people from Poland, India, Pakistan, Morocco, Turkey, Spain and Libya taking part.

Plans to set up youth directory

Plans are afoot to set up a directory of youth activity in Broxburn, Uphall, Winchburgh, Dechmont and Ecclesmachan.

The directory will list all local activity from five-year-old up to under 16s.