But undaunted the village turned out in style on Saturday for their biggest community event of the year.

Pride of place went to Queen Caitlan Philbin, who looked glorious in white. Caitlan (12), who lives in Millgate with mum Nicola (33) and wee brother Sean, five, has just finished primary 7 at Holy Family Primary School.

Crowning her on her big day was Mrs Sheila Sutherland, dinner lady at the primary school.

Sheila has served on the gala day committee, and numerous other community groups, over the years.

Caitlan told the Journal and Gazette:: ''I loved every minute of it, I wanted to do it all again right after the Gala Day.

''My favourite parts were the crowning and my speech.''

Caitlan, who heads to St Margaret's Secondary in Livingston after the holidays, also loved her pink and white castle-themed arch, and her Queen's dress.

She added: ''I'd like to thank Heather Murray and Kenny McKenzie for designing the arch, they helped make it together with family and friends.''

Brother Sean also had a role to play, as he was the escort, another main part.

The procession went ahead despite the weather, with a good turn out of four bands and a full retinue, drawn from Holy Family and Winchburgh Primary. There was a float from the Paula Duffy School of Dance and a good turn out from the Kirknewton Starlets.

Gala day committee president Emma Wilson said: ''I'd like to thank everyone who helped make the Gala Day a big success.

''All the children looked magnificent, and the rain didn't spoil our day.''


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