Hundreds enjoy Link’s free ‘perfect’ Bathgate Summer Fun Day

More than 400 people attended Link’s free Summer Fun Day at Bathgate Thistle’s Creamery Park on Sunday, 30 July.

The event was organised by Link staff and tenants to give local people a chance to find out more about Link, whilst also enjoying a free day out.

Bathgate Area Board Chairperson, Eileen Porter said: “The number of things for people to see and do at the event was really varied, and the catering was excellent.

With cost-of-living challenges and difficulties for parents trying to entertain their children over the long summer holidays, this event was perfect – and all free! Well done, Link.”

Activities included bouncy castles, face painting, a small animal petting zoo, and arts and crafts. A children’s disco and party games entertained the younger children, with housing staff on hand to chat with the adults. There was also a sensory space providing a calming area for children with sensory conditions.

Players from junior football club Bathgate Thistle taught soccer skills and organised a ‘beat the goalie’ competition. To tie in with the Women’s World Cup as well as encouraging equality, girls joined in the football skills activities alongside boys taking penalty kicks against Bathgate Thistle’s goalkeeper. Community choir, ‘Singergie’, entertained the crowds with an open-air performance.

Link tenant Laura Ann from West Lothian felt the event hit the mark. She said: “The fun day was really welcoming and inclusive. It was nice to see the girls joining in with the boys at the football activities and to see so many people engage with the sensory tent. I’m looking forward to coming back again next year”.