Thought to date from 1963, the event attracted dozens of curlers.

One local lady thought that the curlers would be hungry, and brought along a large cauldron of soup, which she left on the ice for them all to enjoy.

But the 18th century cauldron is still in the loch, after it melted a hole right through the ice and sunk forever more.

If you have any old photographs that you think would be of interest to our readers, send them with details to: Journal and Gazette, 114 High Street, Linlithgow EH49 7AQ.

Pictures are returned after publication – so please include your name and address.


50 years ago
From our files of February 26, 1960

*Goats are on the rampage in Bridgend. The hard weather has brought them into gardens searching for cabbages, brussel sprouts and anything green. Tenants are up in arms as the boundary fence is not protecting the land.
*When a 22-year-old from Bo'ness went to light his living room fire he reached for the tin of paraffin but unwittingly picked up a tin of petrol. There was a terrific explosion and the whole family had to evacuate. The family had only just redecorated the living room.
*The future of the Union Canal was discussed this week as it is full of weeds. One option was to fill it in and return it to agricultural use. But it was decided to keep it as a canal for light craft.
*A mild epidemic of chicken pox is rife in Bridgend. Young children are mainly the victims but those of school age seem to be enjoying the time off.
*With secretary Davie Roy at the helm, Linlithgow Rose look set for a good finish to the season at Prestonfield. Ian Lourie (16) has been signed from Vale of Avon and there is interest in some others.


25 years ago
From our files of February 28, 1985

*The popular Port Edgar marina at South Queensferry could be sold off to private enterprise by Lothian Regional Council. The council is looking at a number of options for the marina – the biggest of its kind on Scotland's east coast.
*Plans for a new housing development in Linlithgow have been given the thumbs down because the developers refused to cut the scheme down to size. Torwood Homes Ltd wants to build four serviced house plots in Falkirk Road but the council wanted it reduced to two.
*New houses in Linlithgow Bridge have been demolished. The project is now weeks behind schedule for the 18-flat project at Avon Drive after shoddy workmanship meant two had to be pulled down.
*The opening of The Inn Place in Bo'ness hit a snag last Saturday when the band that was to play called off at the last minute. Replacement agency musicians were terrible according to owner Dicky Gibb.
*BU may have been one man down but they managed to secure a replay with a 2-2 score against Ormiston Primrose in the Swan Cup first round. Tom Caldwell was sent off with a fowl on an opponent.