Centre offers a summer of fun

Jul 17 2008 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

LIVINGSTON’S town centre is playing host to a variety of events for all the family this summer.

Almondvale Shopping Centre will welcome groups from across Scotland and offer ideas to help parents keep their kids entertained.

From Monday, July 21, to Friday, July 25, a selection of the country’s top venues will be coming to the mall to highlight what’s on offer for kids over the school break.

Children of all ages will have the opportunity to take part in free activities including ballet, yoga and theatre workshops, touch pools from Deep Sea World, a petting stable and even a climbing wall.

Jennifer Bruce, marketing manager for Almondvale Shopping Centre, said: “We are delighted with the support we have received from venues across Scotland.

“The region has a lot to offer kids. However, we have extended our search to the whole of the country bringing together a massive range of action packed ideas.

“We thought that offering the kids a fun week of free activities would be a great way to break up the long holidays.”

On Monday, July 21, and Tuesday, July 22, young performers can step into the limelight by taking part in the ballet, yoga, karate and theatre workshops.

On Wednesday, July 23, a team from Scotland’s National Aquarium, Deep Sea World, will be bringing along their portal touch pool, providing kids with the opportunity to handle small sea life creatures, including starfish.

Those looking for something a little more adventurous this summer should have a go on the Ratho Edinburgh International Climbing Arena climbing wall on Thursday, July 24.

And on Friday, July 25, Gorgie City Farm’s mobile petting stable will bring an element of farm life to the centre.

Livingston’s animal corner will include rabbits, chickens, guinea pigs and a tortoise.

All activities are free of charge, however the shopping centre will be continuing with its fundraising for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Jennifer Bruce added: “I am really looking forward to this event, the petting stable and the sea life creatures in the touch pool are sure to attract lots of attention.

“And I am certain the climbing wall and karate workshops will definitely test the fitness levels of many youngsters in the West Lothian area over the summer holidays.”