Linlithgow Marches
There is no way that Linlithgow's annual civic festival can be adequately described. You have to actually be here to appreciate the Marches.
The Marches is organised by the Deacons Court, set up in 1975 when the Town Council ceased to exist due to local government changes. This voluntary body, headed by the Provost, raises funds and plans the big day.
Those born in Linlithgow are known as as "Black Bitches" (The Burgh crest depicts a black bitch tied to a tree on an island) and many Black Biches who live far away will make an annual visit the their vhome town for the Marches. Those that can't will often think of their home and wish they could be there on Marches day.
The Riding of Linlithgow Marches
Tuesday 17th June 2008 - Programme
| Time | What is Happening |
|---|---|
| 5.00am - 7.00am | In spite of the early start, This is not to be missed! Meet at the West Port at 5:00am sharp! Flutes, pipes and drums parade through the Burgh, Linlithgow Bridge and Blackness - rousing inhabitants. |
| 7.00am onwards | Brass, pipe and reed bands play throughout Linlithgow |
| 8.30am | Provost's Breakfast in the Burgh Halls (Invitation Only) |
| 9.00am | Decorated floats and bicycles judged in St Michael’s R.C. Church Car park |
| 10.25am | Civic and Dyers parties march to the Palace to fraternise |
| 10.35am | Parties return to the Cross for “Fencing the Court”- a proclamation of the dire penalties which await any person who “troubles or molests” those riding the Marches |
| 10.50am | Trophies presented to the winners of the decorated float and bicycle competitions |
| 11.00am | Don't Miss This! The Marches Procession moves off westwards along the High Street. Flagbearers lead the way with the Provost, guests, bands, decorated vehicles, Round Table, 41 Club and other groups followed by the Fraternity of Dyers in top hats, tails and sleek cars |
| 11.25am | The Procession arrives at Linlithgow Bridge where the Provost, Bailies and otrhers propose toasts |
| Noon | Don't Miss This! The Procession moves from Linlithgow Bridge to Blackness, passing along the whole length of the High Street |
| 1.00pm | The Procession arrives at Blackness and moves to the War Memorial to lay wreaths |
| 1.25pm | Dignitaries and guests make their way to Low Valley House to sample “Blackness Milk”- a refreshing blend of milk and whisky - to toast the Baron Baillie (appointed annually by Linlithgow to look after the Burgh's interests in its port and haven of Blackness) and to hear his witty report |
| 1.45pm | Principal parties march to Castle Hill where the Court is fenced and the Baron Bailie installed in office for another year - keeping his eye on the goings on in Linlithgow’s once bustling sea port |
| 2.15pm | Lunch at Blackness |
| 3.30pm | Leaders of Civic and Dyers parties exchange visits and hospitality |
| 4.45pm | Procession reforms at Low Port |
| 5.00pm | Whatever else, don't Miss This! Grand Finale as the Procession winds its way three times round the Cross (traditionally a walk, a trot and a gallop) and the Provost & Deacon for the Dyers report on the state of the Burgh boundaries. God Save The Queen! |
The bands which will be appearing are:
• Royal Burgh of Linlithgow Reed Band • Bo’ness and Carriden Band • Bo'ness Pipe Band • The Bathgate Band • Jedforest Instrumental Band • Unison Kinneil Band • Alloa Bowmar Pipe Band • Sambalistic • Grape Vine Panthers American Marching Band • The Band of the Royal British Legion Scotland
In addition to joining the main procession, bands will play in various parts of the town early in the morning and during the afternoon.