With a cold weather snap sweeping the country, Bathgate Thistle Community Football Club has donated 100 meals to West Lothian Leisure Xcite’s Winter Warmer offer.
As part of the leisure charity’s pay-it-forward scheme, the local football club donated enough to cover the cost of hot meals for members of the local community who are in need.
To help people stay warm amid the rising cost of energy bills, West Lothian Leisure is offering free-to-access warm spaces along with a lunchtime deal of soup and a roll at a discounted price of £1.50 from 1.30pm - 4.30pm, Monday to Friday, as well as free cup of tea or instant coffee.
Thanks to the football club’s donation, 100 people can access the deal at no charge.
The club, which was created in 2013 and is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, has over 30 youth teams for boys and girls, as well as several free to attend community sessions including 18+ recreational womens, walking football and children’s Sunday football.
Bathgate Thistle Football Club’s Chairman Paul Marr said: “Community involvement is central to our club and when we heard about the Xcite Winter Warmer deal we were keen to get involved.
“It is a great initiative, and we are delighted to be able to give back to our local community.”
Locals are welcome to use the seating areas and café spaces at Xcite Bathgate, Linlithgow and Livingston, with members of the public under no obligation to make a purchase or be a WLL member.
Guests are also welcome to use the free Wi-Fi, settle down to read or just spend a bit of time chatting with staff.
Xcite Health & Wellbeing Manager Lisa Hunter said: “We are incredibly grateful for the generous donation from Bathgate Thistle Community Football Club.
“The cost-of-living crisis is having a huge impact on people in our communities across West Lothian and the donated Winter Warmers will go towards supporting people who are finding times tough, allowing them access to a warm nutritional meal.
“Staying warm is fundamental to good health and a positive mental wellbeing. We recommend that anyone looking for a warm welcome or a chance to get out of the house as temperatures drop takes advantage by coming along for a visit.”
The local leisure provider took the decision to introduce warm spaces to the community following a widespread rise in energy bills.
Since October average household costs have risen to around £2,500, with another rise set to come in April 2023, meaning local warm spaces could make all the difference.
Locals keen to pay it forward can contact staff at Xcite venues.
Full details of WLL facility opening times and Xcite Cafes can be found at bit.ly/XciteTimes.
Don't miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here
