Campaigners, wanting to increase tourism and boost local business in Linlithgow, have submitted their bid to Cittaslow UK.

Cittaslow is Italian for "slow city" and Linlithgow hopes to become Scotland's second Cittaslow town, benefitting from the internationally recognised title.

The Cittaslow movement is about caring for the local town and the people who live, work and visit it. Concerned with protecting the local environment, it promotes local goods and produce, and encourages the individual character of the town.

The international Cittaslow network includes 100 towns across the world which are intent on promoting local traditions, maintain identity and support local business.

Phil Murray, chairman of the Cittaslow Linlithgow Steering Group said: "We believe that Cittaslow status will act as a catalyst for new initiatives that will help Linlithgow move forward positively and successfully. Put simply, Cittaslow will help to make Linlithgow a better place to live, work and visit."

A formal assessment day will take place in Linlithgow on Friday, May 9, when assessors from Cittaslow UK will consider the town's progress in achieving the 60 criteria against which any bid is considered.

Linlithgow has already met one essential criterion of the bid, the establishment of a Slowfood Convivium. It will be judged on other factors focussing on sustainability and supporting the use of local produce.

Perth was the first town in Scotland to be named a Cittaslow town.

Ken Macdonald, head of economic development at Perth and Kinross Council said: "Achieving Cittaslow status has been a real boost for the town. It has highlighted issues of environmental importance and the quality of life in Perth. Using the Cittaslow name, we have gained recognition for the town and it has helped create a sustainable environment for those living and working here."

West Lothian Council support the bid and the emphasis it places on the environment, waste management, local produce and tourism.

Martyn Day, Executive councillor for development and transport, said: "West Lothian Council is fully supportive of Linlithgow's bid for Cittaslow status. In keeping with the ethos of Cittaslow, the Linlithgow bid was driven forward by the hard work of community organisations and individuals in the town."

Phil Murray, chairman of the Steering Group said: "Cittaslow status will provide a new role for the town when the County Buildings move over the hill. It aims to promote a quality of welcome and a quality of life to tourists and residents in the town. It would give the town a competitive edge among other towns in the central belt."

Anyone who is interested in supporting Linlithgow's bid to become a Cittaslow town can go to the group's website at
www.cittaslow.linlithgow.com and keep up to date with the Cittaslow blog.