Graffiti dogs new pub name in Linlithgow

Its new name sign has had an image of a black dog urinating graffitied alongside the pub’s logo.

The owners, Greene King, believed the name was racially offensive and decided to change it at the end of last year – despite local protests.

A petition was launched that gathered over 10,000 signatures to retain the historic pub’s name, which originally comes from a local legend of a black hound that swam across the loch to take food to her incarcerated owner.

The council, which also received over 500 objections, deferred the decision and Greene King turned to the Scottish Government to decide. The plans were later approved by reporter Elspeth Cook.

She said: “I have carefully considered the submissions regarding the story of the black bitch (depicted as a species of hound) and its importance to the history and identity of Linlithgow.

“While the story is undoubtedly of historic and cultural importance to Linlithgow it is evident that the listed buildings were erected after the event took place. Consequently they have no direct connection to the event.

“S ince the middle of the 20th century the public house name has commemorated the event but this is not the original business name.

“It had two names prior to that: the Western Tavern and Robert Braes Wine and Spirits. I do not consider the name of the business is an integral element of the historic interest of these buildings.”