The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) responded to a woodland fire behind B&M on Whitburn Road in Bathgate on Friday evening, July 17, near the popular Bathgate Market & Car Boot Sale. The fire, which occurred in a wooded area, prompted over 100 calls from concerned residents to market founder Lucy Lawson.
Rapid Response and No Casualties
SFRS received the initial call at 9:13 pm and dispatched one appliance. Crews left the scene at 10:03 pm, confirming there were no casualties. An image from the scene showed a scorched area of trees and burnt debris, including a large tyre.
Market Founder Reassures Community
Lucy Lawson, 26, who founded the market three years ago as a university project, said she received more than 100 missed calls and messages about the fire. She reassured locals that the market would proceed as scheduled on Saturday, stating, “It takes more than a fire to stop Bathgate Market.”
In a social media post, Lawson thanked the SFRS for their quick response and noted that there was no permanent damage to the market. She announced the market would open at 9 am with free face painting and tooth gems, encouraging the community to show support.
Background of Vandalism
The incident follows a spate of vandalism targeting the market, including repeated graffiti and fires. Despite these challenges, Lawson has maintained the market, which has become a beloved community fixture in West Lothian.
A spokesperson for the SFRS confirmed the details of the response, emphasizing that there were no injuries.
