West Lothian Council chief executive Alex Linkston was the 2009 Chieftain of Bathgate and West Lothian Highland Games.
Alex Linkston said: “Every year, the games offer a blend of spectacle and fun for people of all ages, and I was honoured to be appointed Chieftain for 2009.
I was born and raised in Bathgate and have worked and lived in West Lothian my whole life. I know how much the people of Bathgate and surrounding areas look forward to the games each summer. They are incredibly popular with visitors and are one of the main attractions on the West Lothian events’ calendar.
Dedicated public servant Alex has worked with the council and its predecessor authorities for over 40 years, and was awarded a CBE in the 2007 New Years Honours List and Quality Scotland’s Leadership Award in recognition of his achievements.
West Lothian Council has won a string of accolades under his expert stewardship, including the coveted council-wide Chartermark in 2007, and is the only Scottish local authority to win the prestigious Council of the Year award.
Alex is a family man who enjoys travelling, gardening and walking. He is also a keen animal lover and keeps horses, cats and a dog at his home in the country.
Highland Games Association President Matt Purdie said:
"On behalf of the committee, I was delighted to announce Alex Linkston as our chieftain for 2009 Games.
Alex and West Lothian Council have been very supportive of the Bathgate and West Lothian Highland Games over the years, and have helped make it one of the best events of its kind in the country.
It’s the only truly West Lothian-wide event, and attracts top class competitors from all over Scotland and the world."
