The retiral of a long-standing councillor who has served as West Lothian's Provost for more than a decade will give voters a new choice in the Linlithgow ward.
The ward takes in Linlithgow, Bridgend, Philpstoun Newton and Beecraigs in the north of the county. Fiercely proud of its heritage and traditions the biggest story in Linlithgow this year has been a row over a pub’s name.
Townsfolk were angered when a brewery chain decided that the Black Bitch could be considered offensive as a name for one of its hostelries. There was widespread anger from local people, many of whom brand themselves as Black Bitch, as a term for a native. But, despite a vociferous campaign, the name - which refers to a local legend - was lost as Greene King opted for the Willow Tree.
