By Ross Thomson
Copyright dailyrecord
Sight Scotland Veterans opened its doors to the local West Lothian community as part of the national Doors Open Days festival. In a fantastic turnout, 157 visitors explored the charity’s Linburn Centre, discovering the life-changing support and inspirational activities offered to ex-servicemen and women living with sight loss. Many veterans brought along family and friends to experience the centre first-hand, and everyone joined in with a range of activities throughout the day. Andrew Keane, 78, from Livingston, who served over 24 years in the army, was among the many visitors who attended Doors Open Day at Sight Scotland Veterans’ Linburn Centre. Coming along with his wife, Andrew was delighted to see so many people exploring the centre and learning about the wide range of support it offers to veterans. He praised the staff and the positive atmosphere, highlighting how important the centre has been for him personally. Andrew said: “It was great to see so many people at the Linburn Centre for Doors Open Day. I came along with my wife, and it is wonderful to show others what goes on here and all the brilliant help and support we receive. “I go to the Linburn Centre every Tuesday, and I absolutely love it. I’ve tried all the activities – archery, shooting, and the gym. The gentle exercise really helps with my back. “I’ve made so many good friends, and the atmosphere is always so positive. It just makes you feel good every time you come along. I really look forward to it every week. “Sight Scotland Veterans is a fantastic charity. It gets veterans like me, who need a bit of help, out of the house, keeps us active both physically and mentally, and helps us form strong friendships. “It’s been so good for my mental health, and I can’t thank them enough.” Doors Open Days is Scotland’s largest free festival celebrating places, history and culture, providing free access to over a thousand venues and events across the country every September. The festival offers the public the rare opportunity to visit buildings not normally open to them. The Linburn Centre, located in Wilkieston, serves as a vibrant activity hub for veterans with sight loss. Every day, the centre buzzes with activity as veterans make new connections, share stories, and enjoy a wide range of activities ranging from archery and acoustic shooting to woodwork, arts and crafts, gym sessions, and more. Jacqui Salter, Deputy Centre Manager at the Linburn Centre, added: “Each day our expert teams coordinate activities for veterans to explore interests, reconnect with their passions, develop new skills and meet new friends in a safe, welcoming environment. “You’ll always find someone happy to chat with and meet others going through similar experiences with sight loss.” For more information visit sightscotlandveterans.org.uk or call 0800 035 6409. Don’t miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here .
