The Bridge April 2022 by dunkeldandbirnam

Editorial 2

The Bridge

Edited by volunteers for the people of Dunkeld, Birnam and the surrounding villages since 1974

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Regular readers of this column will know about my husband’s bewilderment at my inability to tell a swift from a swallow or house martin He looks at me while gently shaking his head despairingly and says, “just look at the tail, look at the tail” and I try to look at the tail - but they are flying so fast I can’t seem to get a good enough look I then make a total guess e g , “swallow?” and hope that I get an approving nod rather than an arched eyebrow I impressed him the other morning with saying “is that a curlew I can hear?” (Admittedly their call is distinctive even to someone as hopeless as me) but I got a “well done” for that However just because I’m clearly will never make ‘birder ’ grade does not mean I don’t get very excited at this time of year about the return of our migratory birds In fact, I get quite anxious about our ospreys – they face so many perils on their journey back from Africa At the time of writing our male has arrived – here’s hoping the female will be safely back soon See page 16 for all the latest info from Loch of the Lowes and don’t forget you can keep up with all the action on the nest hopefully eggs then chicks etc by watching their webcam Osprey webcam –Scottish Wildlife Trust

The other day I wandered down the Perth Road from Bob’s garage towards the village Instead of staying on the post office side of the road I crossed to walk down the Old Hostel path and through to Torwood Park It is absolutely amazing what the Dunkeld and Birnam team have achieved there over the years They have turned it from a piece of waste ground into a magical woodland walk full of wildflowers Many thanks to them for all their work there and around the village Please note that they are looking for extra volunteers so if you have even the slightest green tint to your fingers, please respond to their appeal on page 16 for volunteers

The situation in Ukraine is an unmitigated disaster Our thoughts and prayers are with the brave people of that country who are fighting for their homeland or moving vulnerable people to safety Thank you to everyone who has already responded to the various appeals for help A new initiative is featured on the front page and is being led by our local Corbenic Camphill Community From the 2nd of April they are setting up a ‘Ukraine appeal table’ in their Dunkeld shop to sell locally made crafts All money raised from sales on this table will go the DEC appeal If you are crafty, please set to with haste and make a few things for the stall and if you’re not please go in and buy as much as you can and be as generous as you can be to this most worthy cause

Finally – it’s the local elections in May Please make sure you register to vote and then get out to vote in person or by post Democracy might not be perfect but as Winston Churchill famously said:

‘Many forms of Government have been tried and will be tried in this world of sin and woe No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise Indeed, it has been said that democracy is the worst form of Government except for all those other forms that have been tried from time to time ’

The situation in Ukraine is a sad reminder to protect what we have – and one way of doing that is to make sure we value our democracy, despite its many flaws, and use our vote Many thanks to all our current three councillors, Anne Jarvis, Grant Laing and Ian James, for all their work over the past years on behalf of our community

Sally Robertson

Birnam to Ballinluig A9 Community Group

Working constructively to get the best community outcomes from the A9 dualling proposals

The next A9 Community Group meeting will be on Thursday 31st March and then Thursday 28th April at Birnam Arts and by Zoom, 730pm, unless otherwise notified All welcome!

At the February A9CG meeting the Coordinator reported on an update briefing that he had with John Swinney MSP, accompanied by Core Group members Garth Ponsonby and Lachlan MacEwan (also as new Chair of the D and B Community Council), on three important topics:

1 Briefing the new Transport Minister Jenny Gilruth MSP: It was agreed that it‘s important to try and get her here for a briefing, so that she can get familiar with the local situation and issues, to follow up on the visit by her predecessor last July, and ideally before a decision is taken about “Preferred Route” for Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing Still no update from Transport Scotland (TS) on this – but hoping there is progress by the time you read this We are extending an invitation directly to Jenny Gilruth

2 Priority for Safer Junctions: It was also agreed that meanwhile more needs to be done to make the junctions safer, particularly in terms of improving lighting and consideration of physical engineering change; and that any further time needed to reach a decision on the “Preferred Route” for dualling should not get in the way of implementing measures to improve safety and minimise risks at the junctions near term ( Not just Birnam and Dunkeld, but also Hermitage entrance and Dalguise road junction)

The Junctions Action Group (JAG) has played an important part in getting some action from TS at Dunkeld Junction, and everyone on the A9CG mailing list should now have received Pam Green’s correspondence with TS If you would like to go on the JAG emailing list to get this directly, and/or to be involved in JAG’s efforts, please contact Pam at pammgreen@btinetrnet com

3 Improvements at D and B Station: It was agreed that action on this, in particular as regards the (lack of!) platform height is too long overdue and that there is definitely no reason why action need await a dualling decision (We are also waiting to find out more about a contract that Jacobs is understood to have, to do with the Station )

At the February CG meeting we also received an update on the PH8 Community Action Plan (CAP) download the CAP at www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/community-council/PH8-community-matters) Travel and road safety issues are a major theme in this, and we discussed the need to document near misses/incidents which often are not officially recorded If you have thoughts on this or anything related to the CAP, please contact Sophie Cade, PH8 Project Coordinator at ph8communitymatters@gmail com

A couple of other matters discussed, looking ahead to the “DMRB3” A9 design stage of Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing, once “Preferred Route” is agreed were noise mitigation measures and the future role of the Community Group itself; how best can we represent the community at the next design stage and indeed at eventual construction stage?

A reminder that the Scottish Government and COSLA have a consultation on reduction of car use by 20% , open until 6 April 2022 https://www transport gov scot/consultation/consultation-on-the-20-reduction-in-car-km-route-map/

As always you can contact us at email: dunkeldA9workinggroup@gmail com, and to have your details added (or removed from) our mailing list; Also at Facebook page: Birnam to Ballinluig A9 Community Group Please Like and Share it Or just phone me!

Alasdair Wylie, Coordinator 01350 727361

Our page on "The Bridge" website, including key documents for download is: http://www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/community-council/a9-dualling

The latest Information from Transport Scotland is at: https://www transport gov scot/projects/a9-dualling-perth-to-inverness/a9-pass-of-birnam-to-tay-crossing/ https://www transport gov scot/projects/a9-dualling-perth-to-inverness/a9-tay-crossing-to-ballinluig/project-details/

Arts News 3

Crackin’ Easter Holiday Fun for kids of all ages!

With longer days and warmer weather, we are getting ready to extend our hours back to opening every day And with the school holidays here, we have fun for the whole family just waiting for you We look forward to welcoming you to enjoy a coffee, a sweet treat or lunch with us – maybe even out on the terrace

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WHAT’S ON –PERFORMANCES & ACTIVITIES

EASTER EGG HUNT

1 – 18 APR | 10am – 4pm

Join us to take part in a fun Easter Egg Hunt to find the 12 hidden Easter Eggs Peter Rabbit has hidden all around the Beatrix Potter exhibition There's no charge to take part – just pick up your Information Sheet when you pay for your tickets in the Gift Shop And there's even a little surprise at the end, once you've found all 12 hidden 'Easter Eggs'! The Beatrix Potter exhibition is open throughout the holidays It makes for a fun day for the whole family – children can enjoy the story and film corner, and role play in the shop and Victorian classroom With activity boxes and colouring in and puzzle sheets available in the Gift Shop, there's plenty to keep everyone entertained! You can buy your Beatrix Potter tickets on the day at the Gift Shop – no pre-booking required

Admission prices are £2/child (3 and over), £3/adult, £10/family day pass for 2 adults and all accompanying children

SINGING AND RAINBOWS

SAT 2 APR | 9.45am Age 0-2 years

10.45am Age 2-4 years

Adult + wee one: £8 + £3 for extra baby/adult

Join opera singers Colleen and Katie for a magical musical experience with your little one Some of classical music’s best loved arias and duets combined with singing games, rhymes, sensory play, and puppet friends Duration 40 mins

SPACE APE By Andy Cannon

MON 4 APR | 1pm

Tickets: £5

Once upon a time, approximately twenty years from now, Yorick stands alone, suited up and ready to blast off in a rocket on his celebrated journey to Mars

Winner of the CATS Award – Best Production for Children and Young People

For all the family: Space Ape is an award-winning science fiction storytelling performance that takes you on a journey through art, science, and philosophy, and on a mission with a very special Ape Andy Cannon, Scotland’s leading storyteller for young audiences, tells the tale, sharing his passion for space travel, using everyday objects and animation Produced by Red Bridge Arts Duration 60

CUA

FRI 8 APR | 7.30pm

Tickets: £13 + booking fee, U26 £8 that has gathered in more praise than most from all the best sections of the media

In his review of Cua at Americana UK, top writer Jeremy Searle said: “This Irish trio stands right at the forefront of contemporary cutting-edge folk and even that description sells it a little short ”

STAND BY SAT 9 APR | 7.30pm

Tickets: £14 + booking fee, U26 £10

The brutally authentic story of four Police Officers struggling to remain in control as the community they serve disintegrates around them The laughs, stress, politics and sometimes ridiculousness of any given day on the job offers the audience a small glimpse of what it’s really like, showing the modern-day Police service laid bare

A unique performance, audiences are asked to wear single-earpiece headphones, as Police Officers do, to tell this urgent story in a multi-sensory way 16 + audience Contains Strong Language Scottish Theatre Producers

JACK DOCHERTY – NOTHING BUT FRI 15 APR | 7.30pm

Tickets: £15 + booking fee

A love letter to Edinburgh, the Fringe and summer rain, this tender, playful, darkly comic tale, where BAFTA winner Jack Docherty (Scot Squad, Absolutely) grapples with lost youth, infatuation, fatherhood, sex, secrets, and truth, was featured in The Independent's Top 10 shows at Edinburgh Fringe 2021 following a sell-out run 16 + audience Contains Strong Language YES! YES! UCS!

TUE 26 APR | 7.30pm

Tickets: £12 + booking fee, U26 £10

It’s 1971, and Aggy McGraw – fresh out of school – gets an office job at Upper Clyde Shipbuilders just a week before it’s threatened with closure With nothing to lose she is swept up in the U C S ‘Work In’, joining workers and local communities to fight for the Right to Work - a victory that changes her life forever!

Yes! Yes! UCS! is a celebration of the community solidarity, collective resistance and the vital support that made the ‘Work In’ such a massive success John Lennon and Yoko Ono sent a bunch of roses with message for the people of Glasgow; it read: “Power to the People!” A Townsend Theatre Production –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

IN THE GALLERY:

4 March – 1 May | 10am - 4pm

WEIGHTS OF RESPONSIBILITY

The new exhibition features the works of three Scottish artists – Susie Johnston, Jenny Pope, and Louise Ritchie Together, they present a celebratory installation of sculptural works exploring a playful subversion of objects, skin, and expectations of contemporary womanhood –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

CLASSES:

CREATIVE KIDS with Helen O'Brien

THU 3 45pm - 5 30pm – £12 per child

Fun and creative, learner led workshops delivered by professional artists and educators Contact creativecatscot@gmail com for more information

REGULAR CLASSES

EXPLORE THE NATURE OF CLAY

Ceramicist Anna Olson will lead a new multi-week course to help you create expressive ceramics with minimal impact on the environment, looking at the process from scratch to methods of building form and creating texture Tools and Materials will be provided Keep an eye out for Anna’s new course, with more information available on our website: birnamarts com

As well as these special events, our ballet classes, tai chi, yoga, Heels Over Head dance, and Pilates sessions will continue through March, with new terms being planned to work around the Easter break You’ll find the latest information about what’s on, times and costs on our website: birnamarts com

WE’RE HIRING + A CHANCE TO VOLUNTEER WITH US

CAFÉ, BAR & FUNCTIONS STAFF

As a vibrant arts & entertainment venue, each position is vital to the organisation We'll be opening Birnam Arts up to 7 days a week again around mid-April and are looking to expand the team This will include some evening and weekend shifts

If you have experience, or if you are interested in completing the required training, we'd love to hear from you Please contact General Manager, James Irvine, on manager@birnamarts com

GIFT SHOP & BEATRIX POTTER VOLUNTEERS

From welcoming visitors to the Beatrix Potter area to taking sales in the Shop, can you help us in this busy and much-loved part of the venue? Get in touch with Steph Hand at arts@birnamarts com or come in when we are open and have a chat

POSTER DISTRIBUTION VOLUNTEERS

With a vibrant programme of events, workshops, and classes, we need some help to get the word out Get in touch today with Gift Shop Manager, Rachael Livingstone at rachael@birnamarts com to learn more

Our winter hours continue for a few more weeks: Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm, with the Gift Shop and Beatrix Potter open 10:30am to 3:30pm The Box Office is open 10am to 5pm Monday to Friday We are working towards opening 7 days a week around mid-April

We look forward to welcoming you to Birnam Arts For more information and tickets are available through our website – www birnamarts com

Arts News continued

Dunkeld Cathedral Art Exhibition

Plans are now underway for a 4 week Exhibition to be held in the Lower Hall at the Duchess Anne from Thursday 4th August - Thursday 1st September We will be open every day from 10 - 4pm and 12 - 4 on Sundays

The website is still showing last year's exhibitors but will be made ready for new registrations from 1st May Unfortunately we will have to restrict the number of artists again as we will not have space to store any extra work

A Preview Afternoon is planned for Sunday 31st July from 12 - 4 - all welcome For further information please contact DunkeldArt @aol com

Butterstone Art Group Members Wanted

We are a small enthusiastic group of artists and crafters who meet in Butterstone Village Hall on Monday afternoons We are looking for people to join us

Although we do not have a teacher, we support and help each other in our artistic hobbies and take part in Open Studios in September each year where many of our members have sold their work

Even if you have never painted before and wish to make a start, or wish to do embroidery or other crafts we should be delighted to hav you with us

If interested contact 01350 724399 to ask about The Butterstone Art Group

Culture Perth and Kinross Museums & Galleries

At Perth Museum and Art Gallery, we’re taking one giant step out of the museum and into ‘space’ this Spring! Our new cosmic playscape will leave you floating above the Earth, walking on the Moon and playing in the stars

Blast Off! was created by Perthshire design studio Fun Makes Good and is an intergalactic, interactive playscape that will surround you with giant murals of planets, where both children and adults can build, dress up, read, and space-walk together through the galaxy

The cosmic playscape aims to inspire children aged five and below to learn about the universe in an interactive and engaging manner

For the mums, dads and grandparents out there, come and journey into a far away gallery to discover what it would be like to live and explore in space, how the technology works and ponder the question about alien life with Space: Fact and Fiction This exhibition features replica props from some of our favourite television shows and movies, inviting visitors to ponder the question of alien life and what they really know

A programme of events for children and families will run alongside Blast Off! throughout the April school holidays Details can be found on the Culture Perth and Kinross Website What’s On section: https://bit ly/cpkblastoff

10am - 7pm every Thursday 10am – 5pm every Friday, Saturday and Monday 10am – 4pm every Sunday

Perth Museum and Art Gallery is closed on Tuesday and Wednesday Blast Off! and Space Fact and Fiction is on at Perth Museum & Art Gallery until Sunday, 29 May 2022

Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries

The Soutar Festival of Words is back, and it’s bigger than ever! This year the Festival will run from 22nd to 24th April and is a response to Scotland’s Year of Stories, where we as a nation celebrate stories inspired by, written, or created in Scotland

Join Culture Perth and Kinross for a three-day celebration of readings, performances and conversations with writers, poets and storytellers from Scotland and across the globe

This year the Festival will be a blended programme of digital events and live performances from venues and outdoor locations across Perth and Kinross, including Innerpeffray Library, the Birks Cinema in Aberfeldy, Strathearn Arts Space Crieff and libraries and museums run by Culture Perth and Kinross directly

Kathleen Jamie, the Scots Makar, leads a lineup featuring Elaine C Smith, The Witches of Scotland, Alistair Heather, Ashley Douglas, Len Pennie, Graeme Armstrong, Hamish Macdonald, Gerda Stevenson, Linda Cracknell, Jim Mackintosh, Caro Ramsay, Joe Donnelly, and more

Full details of the Soutar Festival of Words programme and tickets can be found on the Culture Perth and Kinross website http://www culturepk org uk/soutar2022 Digital skills at the AK Bell Library

Do you know someone who wants to learn about computers, download apps or how to get online? Then tell them to come and meet the Culture Perth and Kinross Digital Champion at the AK Bell Library You can book a 30-minute slot by calling 01738 477060 or emailing localstudies@culturepk org uk

30-minute slots are available every Wednesday from 10 am – 12 pm Find out more here: https://bit ly/cpkdigitalskills

Birnam Library

Birnam Library is now open again! The new opening hours are:

Thursday 5pm-7pm Friday 12pm-5pm Saturday 9 30am-12pm

Birnam Library, Station Road, Birnam, DUNKELD PH8 0DS

01738 459709 / birnamlibrary@culturepk org uk

Birnam Book Festival 2022 Line Up News

We’re excited to be able to welcome audiences back to Birnam Arts for the Birnam Book Festival (20th-22nd May 2022) for the first time since November 2019

Every year, volunteers from the committee create a festival that is an inclusive event for all ages, where audiences can participate in workshops, lively discussions with authors or just sit back and listen to inspiring speakers and enjoy great music

We’re delighted to announce the following events, which will take place at Birnam Arts across the weekend:

● A free programme for children and families, including Kate Leiper, our inaugural Illustrator in Residence, James Robertson, Nicola Wright, Molly Arbuthnott, and the Women of Dunkeld book project

● Mara Menzies performing her award-winning show ‘Blood and Gold’

● Crime writer Louise Welsh with her long-awaited novel, ‘The Second Cut’

● Saltire Society Award winning author, James Robertson on his latest novel ‘The News of the Dead’, with filmmaker, Anthony Baxter

● ’Homelands’ by Chitra Ramaswamy, an award-winning journalist and author Her second novel explores themes of history, friendship and what it means to belong

● ‘The Living Mountain', an evocative, uplifting and compelling audio-visual performance by Jenny Sturgeon, inspired by Nan Shepherd’s nature writing masterpiece

● Devi Sridhar, Professor and Chair of Public Health at University of Edinburgh, and member of Scottish Government Covid-19 advisory group, has been highly praised for her role in communicating science to the public ‘Preventable: How a Pandemic Changed the World & How to Stop the Next One’ is Professor Sridhar ’s important and illuminating book, considered the definitive account of the pandemic so far

● We’ll be raising the curtain on our first ever Cabaret Night- a musical, poetry and spoken word extravaganza, hosted by Tim Turnbull and featuring Alan Bissett, Andy Jackson, Jon Plunkett and local musicians

Patron of the Birnam Book Festival and bestselling author, Fiona Valpy said: "We’re very excited to be back at Birnam Arts this May While we delivered online events during the pandemic, there’s nothing quite like having a live audience This year ’s programme is packed with great authors, panels and performances We’re also offering free events for children, as we think it’s really important to get our young readers back to engaging and fun book events With our varied, vibrant programme, we’re looking forward to recapturing the buzz of our previous festivals " The full programme will be available at www birnambookfestival co uk Tickets will be on sale soon from Birnam Arts www birnamarts com or by calling the box office on 01350 727 674

Keep up to date with event announcements by following us @birnambookfest on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram 0101350 727 674350 727

See the advert on page 13

Sports, Health and Wellbeing 5

AIMS:

1: To transform the lives of people in the villages and surrounding areas through sport and leisure

2: To promote the various sports and leisure activities in the Dunkeld & Birnam area

3: To support the building and maintenance of sports facilities including a sports hall ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––All sports and leisure clubs are invited to join 'The Sports Hub ' Membership is free

Please send details of your club's activities and events to editor@dunkeldandbirnmamnews co uk for inclusion in the hub page of 'The Bridge ' For more details see: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/sport ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

In

Situ Climbing Opens Unit 7Indoor

Training for

Outdoor

Sports

In Situ Climbing opened the new gym at Unit 7 and I bet you’re desperate to know what’s in there, so here’s a quick overview for you:

Strength and Conditioning gym with everything you need for a proper focussed training

Climbing training area with MoonBoard, spray wall, campus rungs, gym rings, and finger boards

The new and improved Therapy Room

O f c o u r s e , t h e r e ’s

clothing, books, maps, and other shiny items

Really good coffee, smooth hot chocolate, and nice teas

A c o m f y s e a t i n g a r e a w i t h w o o d l

seating

A n d i f t h a t i s n ’ t e n o u g h , w e h

Coaching, Massage Therapy, Bowen Technique, Shiatsu, and more You don’t even need to be a member to book I know right? That’s flipping brilliant And there’s more in the pipeline We are going to be hosting Dunkeld Barbell

C l u b , f o r a n y b o d y w a n t i n g t o g e t s u

bring your sense of humour

But what about memberships I hear you cry We’ve got it covered, you can get anything from a day pass to an annual membership and plenty in between We’ve even got gift certificates Nice!

We are here: Unit 7 Cally Industrial Estate, PH8 0HU We have a car park

We are best contacted by emailing: info@insituclimbing co uk

We also have a telephone: 07547 949547

Need more info? Go to: www insituclimbing co uk –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Project

The first work on the MUGA project is starting

Dunkeld Builders undertaking this work We really appreciate that they have kindly agreed to do this work for cost price

Also this week will see the felling of the trees

approved planning permission

The contractors will ensure that the public are kept at a safe distance but please be aware that there may be short periods where access along the footpath or to the car park will be restricted

We thank the community for their patience during these works –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

D and B Leisure Group (Sports Hall project)

We were happy to share a table with the Hub at the Community Action Plan event at Birnam Arts on 5th March, with a display showing both the covered MUGA project - now under way - and the Masterplan, showing the MUGA site and also the planned future indoor sports hall A handout on the history of the sports hall project was available and some new folk asked to be put on our mailing list If anyone would like a copy of the history handout or other information, please contact Alasdair Wylie at awylie2002@yahoo co uk

We are also making plans with the Hub for a "big cheque" handover ceremony to mark the LG's £30,000 contribution to the MUGA and related works (car parking, electrical upgrade), two thirds of which is from funds raised in memory of Robbie Melvin by his mum Kate Stansfield, family and friends after his tragic death Kate is planning an April visit for the ceremony –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Community News continued

Dunkeld Community Archive

We would like to welcome two new young people to our team – Ross, who will be with us for 6 months through the Government Kickstart Scheme and Daria who is comes to us through the Perth and Kinross Young Person’s Guarantee Scheme

Friday 20th and Saturday 21st May (Free entry) – For the Birnam Book festival we will have an exhibition about the Newfoundland Forestry Corps and their connection to this area A book written by Ursula A Kelly called ‘The Foresters Scribe’ will be available and a talk about the research to produce this book will be held at 1pm on the Saturday in the Archive

The Foresters' Scribe is the first comprehensive study of the Newfoundland Forestry Companies (NFC) of the First World War It adds a long-overdue and essential chapter to the Great War history of Newfoundland and Labrador

Over a century has gone by since the NFC was formed in 1917, yet little is known of this small unit of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment Its members were men recruited for woods work in the United Kingdom Their assignment: to cut and mill Scottish timber to supply wood for the war

JUBILEE EVENT

(Combination of Free & Ticketed events)Plans are coming together for our Platinum Jubilee Celebration & Living History weekend on the 4th and 5th June 2022 The following is the line-up so far, but we would be delighted to hear from anyone in the Community who would like to add something, or publicise their event to help make the weekend something to remember The National Trust for Scotland have very kindly allowed us to use Stanley Hill park for our event

Saturday 4th June

10 15am Parade across the Bridge and into Stanley Hill Park by the Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry including ‘C’ & ‘E’ Squadrons, their Pipe Band, Horses and ‘Jackals’ They will be joined by the ‘Scots at War ’ , ‘Great War Society’ & ‘Erskine Regiment’ re-enactment groups

Stanley Hill Park will be open to the public all day where there will be camps set up showing what it was like for the soldiers during the Battle of Dunkeld in 1689, the Boer War, and both World Wars There will also be a Medics tent showing the difference between treatments in WW1 & today The Fire Department will be joining us to show ‘old & new’ equipment There will be an arena hosting a program of events throughout the day including a Musket Display, Pipes & Drums and Battle re-enactments We are also welcoming Vikings from

York who will host a ‘War Game’ in the Duchess Anne Tickets will be made available for folk who would like to join them in a battle (Dunkeld was ‘sacked’ by Danes in 904) Craig Herbertson (singer/songwriter) will be performing throughout the day in the park

At 7pm the Birnam Arts will host a play, written and performed by the Birnam Institute Players, about Beatrix Potter Tickets will be on sale soon through Birnam Arts

Sunday 5th June

Most of the active Army will retreat, but everyone else will remain to entertain you throughout the day in Stanley Hill park

At 4 30pm Dunkeld Cathedral will host a narrated story of the church, with music from the Scottish Plainsong Choir, the Capella Nova Choir and our very own Handbell Ringers Tickets will be available soon through Birnam Arts

At 7 30pm Birnam Arts will host a narrated story of Niel Gow with music from Pete Clark and Jamie Jauncey Again, tickets will be available through Birnam Arts

The Community Archive will be open throughout the weekend with an exhibition about ‘Royals visiting Dunkeld’, including photographs from Queen Victoria’s Jubilee celebrations in Stanley Hill park in 1897 and a home-made banner from this jubilee celebration which went on to be ‘re-cycled’ and used at King Edward VII’s Coronation in 1902

As always, we would welcome any new volunteers Please get in touch if you find yourself with some free time and want to get involved in our exciting projects No experience necessary, just an interest in history and the community

archives@historicdunkeld org uk

01350 727786

12 The Cross, Dunkeld, PH8 0AN

Chattan Tea Room & Post Office

Three Churches in the Community

Thought for the Month

When the invasion of Ukraine started, I started watching some programmes on Russia Today before it was removed from Sky Having heard so much about it I wanted to take a look for myself and see what it was like It was quite an eye-opener to hear apologists justifying things that right thinking people could never countenance

It is useless to shout at the TV, of course, but that doesn’t stop us! It is so frustrating nonetheless, when right and wrong seem so obvious yet can’t be acknowledged publicly It is a human trait first to pick your side and then select the facts to back up your case, rather than examine the facts and make an honest choice

It now seems ages ago (and so trivial) that we were hearing about nothing but ‘Partygate’ but the same happened there A person’s attitude to the facts was in many cases, determined by which side of the divide they had already chosen and facts were then forced to fit the favoured narrative

We are masters at choosing facts to fit our version and ignoring the inconvenient ones Thus, spin doctoring and propaganda are born

We all do it to an extent We find it difficult to admit when we are wrong and change our minds in the light of truth, so we would rather ignore or trash the facts that threaten our own particular theory Whether we call it gilding the lily, being economical with the truth, alternative facts or fake news it amounts to the same We are building our own wee propaganda machine and thus the spiral of half-truths, divisions and ultimately violence continues Innocent people and truth are the casualties The rest of the world is left scrambling for an appropriate response

When Jesus was tried, false witnesses were lined up to testify against him The facts were embellished, his words tweaked to slightly misquote him and give the desired slant thus backing up the case already decided Accusations were hurled and justifications offered – yet the sinless one at the centre of it all said nothing The one who could, justifiably, have protested his innocence took the duplicity, spite and bitterness on his own shoulders and died forgiving

Jesus who could have called down cohorts of angels to blow them all to Kingdom come chose instead to say ‘Father, forgive them’ so that the Kingdom might come The spiral of half-truths, lies, violence, ended in his body when he took it all and died forgiving so that the spiral might be ended And from the blood and the brokenness came new life on Easter morning Hope, that in God’s mercy, evil does not triumph and the ways of the wicked, ultimately, are doomed

Fraser Penny

Kirk Session

The Church of Scotland congregation will hold its AGM on Tuesday 29th at 7 30pm, in Little Dunkeld Kirk

The next regular meeting of the Kirk Session is on May 3rd at 7 30pm

Online Services

Online worship continues and can be accessed on our YouTube channel ‘Dunkeld Cathedral online ’

A fantastic team of people puts in a lot of work to produce the end result Everyone involved is well aware of the commitment this requires but also recognises what an important development this has

been It continues to be under review as we decide how to develop this ministry

Church of Scotland Services

April 3rd 11am – Morning Service in Little Dunkeld

April 10th Palm Sunday 11am – Morning Service in Little Dunkeld

April 17th Easter Sunday

9 00 – Celebration of Communion in the Cathedral

10 30 – Easter Egg Hunt for children of all ages

11 00 – Morning Worship in the Cathedral

2 15 - Service at Amulree Kirk

Including the Sacrament of Baptism

April 24th 11am – Morning Service in the Cathedral

Including the Sacrament of Baptism

May 1st 11am – Morning Service in the Cathedral

Tea and coffee are served after the morning service each week – in Little Dunkeld it is in the Church and when in the Cathedral we go down to the Chanonry

At the time of writing, members of the congregation are still required to wear masks but there is to be a Government announcement towards the end of March which might change the rules

Holy Week

Maundy Thursday (April 14th ) there will be a Communion service in the Cathedral at 7pm

On Good Friday St Mary’s Episcopal Church have a Quiet Hour between 2-3pm

And at 7pm there will be a joint service in the Cathedral

All Welcome

Catholic Easter Services

The Sacred Paschal Triduum

Maunday Thursday - The Last Supper of the Lord

Birnam - 3 00pm - Mass of the Last Supper

Pitlochry - 6 00pm - Mass at St Bride’s

Good Friday

Aberfeldy - 12 noon - The Passion Death of Our Lord and the Veneration of the Cross

St Bride’s - 3 00pm - The Passion and Death of Our Lord and the Veneration of the Cross

Holy Saturday - The Easter Vigil

St Bride’s - 8 00pm - The Solemnity of the Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ

Easter Sunday Masses

Aberfeldy - 9 00am

Birnam - 11 00am (a supply Priest)

Pitlochry - 11 30am

The Meeting Place

The Meeting Place is in the Duchess Anne on Friday mornings from 10 – 12noon All welcome

Fellowship Group

During Lent the Ecumenical Fellowship group will be meeting weekly on Tuesdays The meetings will be hybrid, so those who want to can meet in the Chanonry in person but there will also be an option to join by zoom The contact codes will be sent out each week by email but if you would like to join that way, please get in touch with either Fraser Penny, or John Ferguson (727585)

The group is continuing with its study of 1 Corinthians

Men's Breakfast

The sizzle of sausages and the smell of bacon rolls once again emanates from the Chanonry fortnightly on Wednesday mornings The Men’s Breakfast starts at 9am and will be meeting on April 6th , 20th and May 4th

If you would like more details please contact Peter Mackie at Petermackie46@gmail com

Thursday Youth Group

A group meets in the Duchess Anne on every Thursday between 7 and 8 30, once again meeting in person From the start of the summer term, after Easter, people from P6, P7 and S1 (or the equivalent in any school) are welcome to join Games, sports, refreshments, reflection time and a chance to get together with friends and more Entry is £1 per session

For more information, please contact William Hogg (727053) or Fraser Penny (727249)

Booking Halls

Anyone who would like to book either the Duchess Anne or the Chanonry for meetings and events should contact Jill McCrory on chanonrydunkeld@gmail com

CAP Money Course

Struggling to balance the budget as energy bills continue to increase? Was Christmas on the cards –credit cards that is? Or is the rising cost of living worrying you? The CAP Money Course could be just what you need

This free, short money course makes managing your money simple It will teach you budgeting skills and a simple cash based system to help you get to grips with your finances The course will be held in Aberfeldy Parish Chur on three Thursday during April and May from 7 30pm

Christians Against Poverty (CAP) have been operating in Highland Perthshire for more than 8 years and have helped 22 families and individuals to enjoy a completely debt-free free life CAP has delivered the Money Course to around 70 people in our community and everyone has learned something from it One participant said “I would stress the confidentiality of the course and that everyone would gain from attending, even if they didn’t feel they had any problems with managing money”

This is a very informal DVD based course full of helpful tips and hints If you would like to find out more or book a place on the course, either go online at www capmoney org , email angelahanvey@capuk org or call 07513 652597

Three Churches in the Community Church Services and Contacts:

Weekly Services

Church of Scotland:

Dunkeld Cathedral at 11am

Every Sunday from Easter Sunday to Remembrance Sunday

Little Dunkeld Kirk at 11am

Every Sunday from the Sunday following Remembrance Sunday to Palm Sunday

Scottish Episcopal Church:

St Mary’s Birnam at 10am

Every Sunday

Roman Catholic:

St Columba’s, Mass 6pm

Every Saturday

Monthly and Occasional Services

Church of Scotland, Amulree

Third Sunday of the Month 2 15pm Servite

There is a Communion Service in the lounge at Servite at 3pm on the first Sundays of March, June, September and December

St Mary’s Episcopal Church Service Time: 10am

Said Eucharist (communion) every Sunday Beautiful organ music instead of hymns for the duration of the virus

Brilliant sermons too!

All are welcome in this space https://www stmarysbirnam org uk/

Contact Details:

Church of Scotland:

Congregational Office Bearers:

Minister: Rev. R.Fraser Penny,B.A. B.D., Cathedral Manse, Dunkeld, PH8 0AW Tel: 01350 727249

e-mail: r fraserpenny@gmail com

Session Clerk: Mrs C McNicoll Tel: 01350 727500

e-mail: mcnicoll431@btinternet com

Treasurer: Mr. John Gray

Highfield, Brae Stret, Dunkeld, PH8 0BA

Tel: 01350 728697

e-mail: gray john17@sky com

Covenant Officer: Mrs Ann Bryce

Tomnagrew House, Dunkeld PH80BX Tel: 01350 723228

e-mail: j bryce@farmline com

Organist & Choir Leader: Mrs Hazel Murch

Tel: 07867 642954

e-mail: hazel murch@gmail com

Parish Office: Mrs Jill McCrory

The Chanonry, 07808 703641

email: chanonrydunkeld@gmail com www dunkeldcathedral org uk

St Mary’s Episcopal Church, Birnam

The Rector:

Reverend Lesley-Ann Craddock

Priest in Charge of St Mary’s Birnam and Dunkeld St Mary’s rectory, St Mary’s Rd, Birnam, PH8 0BJ

Tel: 07903 020509

email: lesley craddock@btinternet com

Part time = Friday, Saturday & Sunday

I can also be found dwelling nr LochNess 01456486663

Treasurer:

Penny MacGregor and Charles Cox

Vestry Secretary:

Adrian Freer

Tel: 01821 650536

email: adrianfreer@btinternet com

Organist :

John Walker B Mus, FRCO, LRAM, ARCM

Tel: 01350 727755

(www stmarysbirnam org uk)

St Columba’s

Roman Catholic Church

Catholic Church Priest:

Fr Emmanuel Adindu MSP

Tel: 01796 472174

e-mail: stbridespitlochry@dunkelddiocese org uk

St Bride’s Catholic Church

Rie-Achan Road, Pitlochry PH16 5AL

Our Lady of Mercy’s, Home Street, Aberfeldy, PH15 2AL

We celebrate the presence of the Risen Lord amongst us during these Masses:

St Columba’s Birnam, Saturday Vigil Mass at 6 00 pm

Our Lady of Mercy, Aberfeldy, Sunday at 9 30

St Bride’s, Pitlochry at 11 30 pm

Holy Days of Obligation: Mass Times

St Columba’s Birnam, at 9 30 am

Our Lady of Mercy, Aberfeldy at 12 30 pm

St Bride’s, Pitlochry at 6 00 pm

Weekday Masses:

Our Lady of Mercy, Aberfeldy, Tuesdays at 9 30 pm

St Bride’s, Pitlochry, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 9 30 am

Lent and Easter

During Lent Stations of the Cross will be observed as follows:

Our Lady of Mercy, Aberfeldy, after the Tuesday Mass

St Bride’s, Pitlochry after the Friday Mass

St Columba’s Birnam, before the 6 00 Saturday Vigil Mass

How poor nutrition can impact us all

Did you know it’s Nutrition and Hydration Week this month? This is a worthwhile campaign and most of us could benefit from advice on eating better

Nutrition and poverty

For some, poor nutrition is a choice Others, though, including many of those who seek help from Christians Against Poverty (CAP), feel they have no choice but to skip meals and are not getting a nutritious diet – not through choice, but because of necessity 6% of CAP clients say that debt meant they had to sacrifice meals on a daily basis A much higher proportion of clients –over one in three (37%) – report skipping meals on, at least, a monthly basis In many cases, parents will ensure their children eat first, even if they themselves then have to go without

The spiral of poor nutrition

The NHS website says that a lack of proper nutrition can lead to someone feeling tired all the time, feeling weak, getting ill more often and taking longer to recover from illness This can make it difficult for someone in this position to go to work, or work productively, which can lead to them not being able to earn and falling further into debt, particularly if their work hours are unpredictable

There are also some great, healthy recipes, for example, at bbc co uk/food Why not try something new this month? Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity that works with local churches to deliver debt help, budgeting guidance, support to find work, life skills groups and more Visit capscotland org to find out more

Notes from a Councillor

Unfortunately the topic that overshadows everything that is happening locally is the terrible Russian invasion of Ukraine and the shocking scenes of wanton destruction that the Ukrainian people are having to bear

Along with Councillor McDade I brought a motion to Council that we should suspend the twinning arrangement that Perth has with the Russian city of Pskov and to look at a twining arrangement in the future with a Ukrainian city or town of comparable size to Perth This action was not aimed at the people of Pskov but at the Russian Govt and a show of solidarity with the Ukrainian people The Motion was passed unanimously with the support of all Elected Members The Ukrainian flag now flies at 2 High St replacing the Russian one

The support of local people willing to help the Ukrainian refugees has been amazing ranging from the many donations of food, clothes, bedding and toys to people willing to offer accommodation within their own homes for Refugees who arrive in Perthshire Perth man Steve Carr chairman of the Dnipro Children charity has been instrumental in managing to get 48 orphaned Ukrainian children to Scotland which is a monumental achievement

Locally I was shocked to hear that the Dunkeld and Birnam Santa Day organisers were facing an £800 bill for a road traffic order to enable the parade to take place

Happily after a discussion with Officers at PKC I was able to pass on the good news that this charge would be waived and there would be no charge at all

Cath’s Dog Walking

Dog Walking and sitting Service in Murthly, Bankfoot and Dunkeld area

Either group or solo walks daily as well as dog sitting

Prices:

£10 per hour weekdays and £12 per hour weekends

Available 7am until late each day

I am insured, hold Canine First Aid Level 4 and current PVG Clearance

Email:cathhendry@icloud com Telephone: 07934217252

Mon-Fri 8 00am to 5 00pm Sat 10 00am to 11 00am

The Community Council in March was very interesting when David Littlejohn a lead planning Officer attended and answered questions from the Public many of which centred around the growing prevalence of short term lets in the Dunkeld area and this coupled with rising rental prices is making the area very difficult to find affordable domestic rentals This was also one of the main themes at the PH8 community matters meeting held in the Birnam Institute This meeting had a large turnout with various organisations represented and the option to form a development trust and what that would involve was discussed

I attended a walk round Dunkeld and Birnam with quite a few residents and 2 road safety Officers from PKC There were various views as to how the parking issues and the road traffic issues should be tackled I think that changes to benefit both residents and visitors alike will be possible and am sure that if the Community keep pressing for improvements they will be delivered

Biodiversity is something that all of us should be interested in and there are quite a few initiatives to be rolled out in the near future Last month I received a 1000 snowdrop bulbs which were planted in Caputh cemetery Friends of cemetery Groups will be able to apply for wildflower seeds, bat roost boxes and other plants to help feed our pollinators Churches and halls will also be able to obtain swiftboxes and other bird nest boxes

With the Council Elections coming up I am sure that I speak for Cllrs James and Jarvis as well as myself that it has been a privilege to represent Strathtay Ward at Perth and Kinross Council Grant Laing

Coulterenny, Cairneyhill, Bankfoot, Perth. PH1 4AQ

Email: admin@potterplumbing co uk

diggercox@btopenworld com

JOHN SWINNEY, MSP for PERTHSHIRE NORTH can be contacted at: 17-19 LESLIE STREET, BLAIRGOWRIE Tel: 01250 876576

SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, EDINBURGH EH99 1SP Tel: 0131 348 5717 e-mail: john.swinney@parliament.scot

Pete Wishart MP: Member of Parliament for Perth and North Perthshire pete.wishart.mp@parliament.uk Perth Office: 63 Glasgow Road, Perth, PH2 0PE. Tel: 01738 639598 North Perthshire Office: 17-19 Leslie St, Blairgowrie, PH2 6AH Tel: 01250 876 576

•

• Laundry

• Equine Rug Wash & Pet Beds

• Holiday Cover Cleaning Service

• Self Catering, Holiday Homes, Private Homes & Small Businesses Any questions or to discuss individual or business requirements, please contact: Kelly or Rosanagh on mob: 07871 695461 email: dunbraantaylaundry@yahoo com Facebook: @dunbraantaylaundry Opening times: Tuesday - Friday 9am to 1pm Perth Road, Birnam PH8 0BH (behind the post office)

Community Noticeboard 15

Amulree Hall

Our next fund raising event is on 26th March when we will be serving soup, coffee and cake form 10-2pm We had a lovely time in February so hope you can join us soon We will hold another one on 30th April, same time same place

The family movie night is on 1st April, please get in touch for details

Appeal For Honesty .... Box

The honesty box at the stall at the gate to the Field has been taken away, we know not by whom

This is an appeal to anyone who may know of its whereabouts, or who finds it, to please, please return it to the stall

Dunkeld Community Fire Station

Dunkeld & Birnam Community Fire Station are looking for new firefighters!

Retained Firefighters in Dunkeld & Birnam operate ‘oncall’ and respond to emergency calls via a pager from their home or place of work at any time of the day or night

They provide vital fire and rescue cover in the community, protecting local people and businesses in the area from fire and other emergencies

If you join the Fire Station not only will you be performing a highly valuable role in the local area, but you will be taught vital life-saving skills that will be of real benefit to you

It’s a challenging role within a team spirited environment where all have pride in working for the SFRS

If you are interested please come to the Station on a Wednesday evening between 7pm and 9pm

More information is also available at the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service website: https://www firescotland gov uk/careers/retainedvolunteer/

Doctors Surgery

Our Doctors Surgery will be open as normal with telephone consultations with the GP in the first instance

To help keep our phone lines available for the GPs use, please consider using our online prescription service via our website rather than phoning in your requests

Please consult our website for updates on our COVID vaccine clinics

See page 7 for all the latest Doctors Surgery News

Land Rover Experience Scotland Butterstone Loch, Dunkeld

Part-time Housekeeping/ Domestic Assistant

Butterstone and Dunkeld This is a customer-facing role which will include the serving and clearing of lunches and refreshments to our guests and daily cleaning duties A high level of customer service is therefore essential, and we are looking for someone who is self motivated and who can work well as part of a team Due to our location a d

approximately 16-20 hours per week and will involve working some weekends We offer an excellent hourly rate of pay and 28 days holiday per year (pro-rata) A uniform will be supplied, and there is a company pension scheme

Please apply with a full CV and covering email to: hr@landroverexperiencescotland co uk

robertson printers

Self-Publishing a Book?

We specialise in short-run paperback booksColour or Black & White, All types of binding Call or email for a quote!

Three Churches Charity Shop

High Street Dunkeld

Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10-4

Donations welcome during opening hours

Can you spare 3 hours a month to help in our shop?

Call in for a chat or contact:

Anne Graham: 07751 593421

Mara Maggio 01350 727585

Dianne Simpson 07796 920018

Marion Eglinton 07740 877504

Find us on Facebook at 3 Churches Charity Shop

Dalguise Meditation Group

Everyone is welcome who would like to learn to meditate, to consolidate a meditation practice they already have, or simply to join our friendly group for a period of quiet contemplation and thoughtful discussion

We are non-religious, and non-commercial (i e there is no charge –plus free tea, coffee and biscuits too!) for further information contact: faithanstey@gmail.com

Birnam Institute Library

http://www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/ business-showcase/1064-birnam-institute-library

Opening hours: Thursday 5pm-7pm Due to Covid19 restrictions, the library will not be open for browsing Birnam Library is situated in the Birnam Arts Centre, Station Road, Birnam, PH8 0DS Tel: 01738 459709

RBS mobile bank visits Dunkeld and Birnam. Thursdays: Dunkeld, The Cross 14.50 pm to 15.20 pm and Birnam, Post Office 15.25 pm to 15.45 pm

A World Community

Our Climate Café in Dunkeld & Birnam is a welcoming space for chat and positive action for our planet The Climate Café is back to meeting in person at the Community Coworking Space at Lagmhor, the Old Doctor's Surgery, on the first Thursday of every month - so our next Café is on Thursday 7th April It is free and everyone is welcome from 7 pm to around 9 pm Let us know on info@climate cafe if you would still like to join us virtually on zoom!

It's a really informal space - where anyone can drop by for a chat, to share ideas, let folk know what their business or project is up to, ask questions or get involved in activities There are also more opportunities to take action in between the Climate Café datesthese are organised by Climate Café volunteers Thank you to Liz and Jan for organising this month's actions!

Last month Martin Mathers from the HEAT Project visited and he will be returning on Tuesday 26th April to share more free energy savings advice and opportunities for home visits He also has information on all the latest support and schemes to save money and emissions - and can help access them too Private appointments can be made too

This month there will be an opportunity for tree planting at Dun Coillich on Saturday 2nd April - this will be a free and fun day out Please do register in advance on info@climate cafe if you would like to come along and we can make sure there are enough trees for everyone!

The brilliant and popular Repair Café from Aberfeldy will be visiting again on April 23rd - a great chance to bring along items that could be repaired and save them from landfill!

Could you help out with the Repair Cafe? Do you enjoy fixing things and giving second life to our everyday things? If you have DIY skills, sewing skills, tech skills and can spare a bit of time please get in touch at info@climate cafe and join the team Watch out for confirmation of times on posters and on our facebook page or instagram

Next up there are plans for more action from engagement with local elections to action for zero waste and a circular economy, with a focus on sustainable fashion (swap shop plans!) active and sustainable transport, community energy and biodiversity in the local area Watch out for more events and visits from inspiring speakers throughout April and May!

Dunkeld and Birnam Community

Growing @the Field

We are a Community assisted organic agriculture project situated at the top of Brae street Dunkeld We grow every vegetable and fruit which suits our climate and this provides our loyal band of volunteers with food for most of the year Our prime produce is sold at a very affordable price to the community via twice weekly summer stalls and a regularly stocked stall at the Field gate throughout the winter

If you are interested in sharing the work and our produce come along on a Thursday or Saturday morning 10am any week for an induction and join in the fun,coffee and cakes somehow miraculously appear on every occasion

You can check us out on our website: www dunkeldfield co uk and facebook

Currently we are preparing seed boxes in the small polytunnel and sowing leeks, to be followed by beans,squash and brassica so that they will be ready to plant out into our outdoor plots the spring By the time you are reading this George Ness will have selected a suitable tractor and plough from Dave Muirhead's fleet of vintage machines and implements and will be opening up a fresh 60 x 10 metre plot for this year's tatties The volunteers have been spreading horse dung contributed by Graeme Tinto's horses on the ground since New Year Graeme has also given his time and trailer to facilitate this task

The seed tatties will be planted in April and this is a great occasion for families to help so come along and let your children see where their food comes from We have a large polytunnel which grows a remarkable range of exotic vegetables through the summer months from aubergine to chilli peppers and of course masses of tomato and cucumber We encourage biodiversity and have planted hundreds of native hedging trees, willow and hazel around the field which provides habitat for birds and insects the year round

We rent the field from the Soil Association and as this is our eleventh year of growing for the community, we hope to mark this occasion with a celebration over the summer

Come and see what we are doing:it's a lovely open space which is full of life and produce!

Raymond Simpson on behalf of the trustees

Dunkeld

and

Birnam in Bloom

What are we doing this month?

Torwood Park, Birnam

The Community Council grant has been approved, so work on the extension to the footpath at Torwood Park can go ahead once materials are purchased and the Payback team can start the groundwork The advised diameter of drainage pipe was finally located in Aberfeldy and will be delivered soon Our path materials will be ordered through the council, from Stewarts of Auchterarder, so saving us delivery charges (Every little helps!)

The snowdrops along the roadside by the new hedge side at Birnam exit to the A9 have been a great success, and we will plant the other half of this stretch as soon as we can move more snowdrops in the green from the large bed in Torwood Park

We have been trying to establish Scottish Bluebells in the woodland walk without a lot of success and would like to try planting them “in the green” If you have any you can donate to us we would welcome them?

St Ninian’s Garden

Our Helleborus have flowered beautifully this year –their common name “Christmas Rose” equates to February Blooms in this part of Scotland! By the time this article is printed the Spring bulbs will be up and giving us a beautiful colourful display, around the village Liz and Evelyn have done some work on the low fence surrounding the wildflower bed in the corner, but we do need a lot more willow – does anyone have some?

Pruning shrubs, cutting back of plants and grasses continues this month, as does the never ending job of leaf sweeping

Should you feel that you could spare us a few hours –please contact Liz, Betty or Linda or simply turn up at either Torwood Park or St Ninian’s Garden on a Monday morning at 10 30 (ish) and join the group (Tea break time around 11 30) The weather will be warmer soon and the days longer, to allow us all to enjoy the outdoors more

Hoping to see a few new faces soon, Linda Speirs

Advance note for your diary - AGM date will be the 25th MAY at 2pm at Birnam Arts

Loch of the Lowes in April

The summer season at Loch of the Lowes is now well and truly underway! After two years of being constrained by the pandemic, it’s wonderful to be open again 7 days a week, 10 30am-5pm Although the restrictions have eased, we, staff and volunteers, are continuing to wear face masks and keep up a regime of

sanitizing hands, touch points etc to make the centre as safe as possible for all visitors

Tickets can be purchased on the door when you arrive or you can book them in advance through www scottishwildlifetrust org uk and clicking on ‘Things to Do’

On Saturday 5th April we’re holding an Optics Fair (10 30am-4pm) when you can try and buy a wide selection of binoculars and telescopes with expert advice from Trish from the Viking Optical

Our male osprey has returned for his 11th season at Loch of the Lowes! LM12 flew into the reserve at midday on 13th March Hopefully, it will not be long before he is joined by a female and we have fingers crossed it will be NC0, his mate in previous two years You can check out the latest news and see the Live nest-cam stream on our website (above) or simply put ‘Lowes osprey webcam’ into your search engine and you’ll see what’s happening in real time

Isn’t it lovely to have longer hours of daylight and see purple, pink, white and yellow flowers? Every day, new colours are joining vibrant green foliage and fresh grass to take over from the russet, browns and greys of winter This month we’ll see the countryside steadily greening above our heads and beneath our feet while birdsong rises to a crescendo in the approach to International Dawn Chorus Day, 1st May 2022

Let’s hope April will bring clement weather so walks in the countryside won’t entail the mud of March! If you are out and about, be extra careful not to disturb wildlife or farmers’ crops and animals This is a vital time of the year for all living things who ask for little, except peace and safety to raise the next crop or generation Birds, especially ground breeding birds, are very vulnerable while they incubate eggs and raise chicks: a dog or human trampling a well-hidden nest spells disaster

Treecreeper - photo by John

Monks

Animals are very protective of their youngsters so steer clear of walking through fields with calves, or lambs and we must remain protective toward wild mammals while their young ones fend for themselves for the first time Please always adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and encourage friends and neighbours (or your clients if you run a B&B, hotel etc) to make sure they know and understand the Code Scotland’s wonderful countryside is a joy to explore, but our right to roam comes with serious responsibilities

https://www outdooraccess-scotland scot/ Follow all the action at Lowes and on the osprey nest through our website scottishwildlifetrust org uk, Facebook: Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve and Twitter: @LochoftheLowes Email lochofthelowes@scottishwildlifetrust org uk

News from our Community Council 17

Dunkeld & Birnam Community Council

Community Council Matters

Laura Graham Community Councillor

If you would like to contact the Community Council you can do so by emailing: dbcc correspondence@gmail com

You can also contact us via the messaging system on our facebook page

Of course, if you have the opportunity, then please do chat to any member of the Community Council if you bump into them while out and about

Meetings are held monthly at 7pm on the second Monday of the month Date of next meetings:

11th April

9th May

13th June

Venue: Online zoom meeting

Please email us on the above address if you would like to attend and we will send you a zoom invitation

To read the minutes of previous meetings and to find the agenda for forthcoming meetings, see: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/community-news/ community-council

April already! Where has the time gone?

The Community Council has been busy the past few months with guest speakers from Atholl Estates, Scottish Gas Network and Highland Perthshire Cycling, it’s great to see them all engaging with the Community Council and sharing their proposals with the community

Please have a look at the minutes from these meetings (available to view on The Bridge website) or get in touch with us for further information

With COVID restrictions affecting all of our community groups I’d like to take this opportunity to remind them that there are SSE Covid Recovery and Griffin Microgrants for up to £1000 available to apply for

Grants are available to legally constituted groups, non-profit organisiations and registered charities, application forms can be downloaded from the SSE website

We are all painfully aware of the terrible humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and have had members of the community asking us what can be done Collections have been organised across the community and we will keep you updated on our facebook page of any further collections that we become aware of and any updates from PKC

Please be sure to follow our facebook page which is updated regularly with useful items such as traffic orders, community watch posts and planning applications

PH8 Community Matters

March saw the launch of our first ever Community Action Plan for PH8, celebrating with a community launch event at Birnam Arts on 5th March, attended by people from all over the community It was fantastic to see so many folk keen to hear more about the plan and get involved with

Community Development Trusts, Fiona Ritchie gave an inspiring welcome and steering group members Stuart Paton and Caroline Wilding provided a succinct synopsis of the process as a whole – view videos of all the speakers and the D

everyone who took part and helped to make this happen!

happen Given its scope we need an organisation that can oversee its delivery and lead on the actions that don’t fit into any existing community groups For this r e a s o

Development Trust on Wednesday 30th March 7:00pm at Birnam Arts and via Zoom So, if you are passionate about change for good in our community and c a n s p a r e s o m e t i m e t o g e

along or get in touch We want a Community Development Trust to reflect the community it will be working for, and welcome any people keen to get involved (email ph8communitymatters@gmail com for the Zoom link)

Also, this month sees the launch of the PH8 area Housing Survey In partnership w i t h t h e C o m m u n i t i e s H

survey results will help shape what housing is provided in Dunkeld, Birnam and surrounding area, led by the needs and aspirations of the community, and will h e l p e n s u r e f u t u

t h o s e w o r k i n g i n t h e a r e a t o l

homes for local people To this end, as well as current residents, the survey is also for people wanting to return or re-locate to the area, and local businesses –

support to complete the online survey can attend a drop-in session at any of the following locations:

Sat 26th March – Amulree Village Hall 10am-12pm

Thurs 7th April – Dalguise Village Hall 1pm-3pm

Tues 12th April – Co-working space, Lagmhor, Little Dunkeld 10-12pm

Mon 18th April – Butterstone Village Hall 10am-12pm

Sat 23rd April – Birnam Library 09:30-11am and Birnam Arts Café 11am-12pm Yo u c

ph8communitymatters@gmail com

We would love to hear what you think – get in touch on the above email address or on social media: @ph8communitymatters or visit: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/community-council/PH8-community-matters

Laura Graham

April ‘Stick on the Fridge Page’

Local Organisations - Contact Details

Listing for local voluntary organisations are free however The Bridge welcomes donations to cover the cost of these listings Please send donations to the Advertising Manager, John B Gray at Highfield, Brae Street, Dunkeld, PH8 0BA Many thanks Please contact the editor with amendments/additions

Organsiations - General

Local Organisations - Continued

Health Community & Services

Infinityblu Dental Care, Pitlochry 01796 470001

Infinityblu Dental Care, Dunkeld 01350 729198

Dentist

Phone 01350+

Dunkeld & Birnam in Bloom 01350 727288 Linda Speirs

Guide Dogs for the Blind 727346 / 727657

Friends of the Cathedral 01350 728697 John Gray

Probus Club 01738 787930 Sandy Love

Email: slove59@aol com

Horticultural Society 727255 Jan Silburn

Historical Society daveroberts132@btinternet com Dave Roberts

National Trust for Scotland North Perthshire Ranger Service - Office: 01350728641

The Meeting Place (Fridays DA) 727382 Jean Dickson

SWRI Email: evelyn menzies@sky com Evelyn Menziesl

SWRI Amulree 01350 723203 Jane Anderson

Chapter House Archive (Mon 10-12 & 7-9, Wed & Fri 10-12) 01350 727786

Bridge Club (Tuesday 6 45pm BI) 727294 Vilma Morison

Royal British Legion 01350 728884 W Forsyth

Tourist Association 01350 723297 Adrian Blundell

Friends of BI (nb not bookings see below) 723203 Jane Anderson

WRVS 01738 633975 Kathleen Coffey

German Shepherd Rescue, Scotland 01738 710111 Liz Bowers

Staffie Smiles Rescue 07743 180228 Shiona Cameron

The Orchard 727048 Katharine

@thefield 728926 Dave Roberts

Email: dblandtrust@btinternet com

3 Churches Charity Shop 01350 727237 / 07751593421 Anne Graham

Community Learning & Development

PKC CLD Staff

01738 459701 Email: dunkeldcomlearn@pkc gov uk Cat Gordon/Kim McBain/Alison May

U3A 01796 483281 Meg Ross

Email: megross@btinternet com

Sport

Dunkeld & Birnam Angling Association Secretary, Russ Jobson dunkeldangling@gmail com DBAA@live co uk

Bowling Club Gael Shaw 07977 911068 Gaelshaw@btinternet com

Badminton johnrmoy@googlemal com

Field Archery 07786 073686 01350 727911

Glendelvine/Spittalfield Cricket Club (all ages) Neil Wimberley

Website: www glendelvinecricketclub com Email: wimbo32@hotmail com

Golf Club (Visitors Welcome) 727524

Highland Perthshire Clay Shooting Club 07821 940252 Secretary Ted Carr Email: thecarr@waitrose com

Leisure Group (Sports Centre Project) 727361 Alasdair Wylie Curling 01738 454700 Claire Milne

Tennis Club m: 07740 586064 or 01738 710484 Shona Smith Email: shonamh@googlemail com

Tayside Orienteers 727048 Bill Melville

Running Club adrianrdavis@hotmail com Adrian Davis

Netball 723269 Tiffy Shedden

Yoga 728773 June Mitchell

Yoga 2 728783 Sue Atkinson

Uver 35's Rugby 07738 006738 iainhg@aol com

Tai Chi 07551029076 John Connelly

Music & Arts

Cathedral Tower Bell Ringers 724218 Iona O’Connor Film Society 727740

Handbell Ringers 01828 628109 Margaret Davidson

Birnam Institute - Arts & Conferences 727674

Just Singin’ 7 30 Weds BI 07545 219529 Carole Reid www justsingin co uk

BIPS howemarilyn@hotmail com Marilyn Howe

Birnam Youth Theatre Mon 5 00-6 30pm 727207

Dunkeld Strathspey & Reel Society 07531 520476 Duncan Thomson duncanwthomson@yahoo co uk

Silversmithing Wed 7-9pm 727674

Arty Kids Wed (from 18thApr) 4-5pm 6wks 727674

Birnam Arts Ballet Tues/Wed/Thu age4up 727674

Ceramics Tues/Thurs 10am-1pm 7-9 30pm 727674

Scottish Country Dancing 01738 561676 / 01350 727380 Helen or Dinah

Annual Events

Highland Games (August) www birnamhighlandgames com

Christian Aid Week 727867 Jim McCafferty Flower Festival (bi-ennial) 724255 Sheila Mannion

Art Exhibtion (June - August) 01738 710399 Margaret Scott Arts & Crafts Fair (June & Nov) 01350 727968 Na an Meikleour

Niel Gow Festival - Weekend close to March 22nd - petethefiddler@btinternet com

For Children Baby & Toddler Group 07546 128902 Lesley Singers

Playgroup 9 20-11 40 Tues and Thurs Playleader: dbplaygroup@gmail com

Nursery at Royal School 01738 454470 Royal School Dunkeld Puddleduck Nursery 727117 Heather Morton Royal School of Dunkeld 01738 454470 Kids Club - After school care 07930 462944 Supervisor Sunday School - Church of Scotland 727249 Caputh Baby and Toddler Group Tues 10-11:30am - Lorna 07832 235 607

For Younger People Girlguiding Dunkeld Trix Stephen, District Commissioner (Rainbows Brownies Guides Rangers): Tel 07770324173 Email guider@girlguidingdunkeld org uk Youth Café 727760 Linda McDougall

Youth Club Wednesday pm DA 727259 Fraser Penny

The Black Watch Army Cadets 07429 113439 Staff Sergeant Craig Ross

Beaver, Cubs, Scouts 07766 071854 Martina Wolfe

Messy Church last Sunday in month 727259/727594 Fraser Penny/Deidre Gerrie

For Older People

Servite

07595 651446 Ivan Russell

Working Hours: Mon,Tues,Thurs,Fri: 09:00 – 13:30

Senior Citizens 727311 Ronalda Pattullo

Friends of Rivendell 728885 Fiona Ritchie

Hall Bookings

Duchess Anne 07808 703641 chanonrydunkeld@gmail com Jill McCrory

Chanonry 07808 703641 chanonrydunkeld@gmail com Jill McCrory

Birnam Institute 727674

Dalguise Village Hall 07746 392268

Amulree Village Hall www amulreehall org uk

Caputh Hall caputhhall@gmail com 01738 710 848

728826 Mr Greig, PS, BDS

Doctors 727269 Craigvinean Surgery

Chemists 727210 Davidsons

Chemist on Sunday 01738 643791 Asda, Dunkeld Rd, Perth

P&K Environmental Services 01738 476476

Library 01738 459709 Margaret Quigley

PKC Roads Dept 01738 625411

Community Council

dbcc chair@gmail com Stuart Paton

Registrar (3/5 High St Perth) 01738 475121

Police (Tayside Non-Emergency) 101

Dates for your Diary

BA = Birnam Arts Centre

= Duchess Anne Hall, The Cross, Dunkeld Continues

– 1 May 10am - 4pm Gallery exhibition Weights of Responsibility Birnam Arts

area Housing Survey drop in Co-working space, Lagmhor, Little Dunkeld 10-12pm

Jack Docherty - Nothing But 7 30pm Tickets: £15+booking fee Birnam Arts

PH8 area Housing Survey drop in – Butterstone Village Hall 10am-12pm

Bingo Tea 7pm Dunkeld and Birnam Golf Club

PH8 area Housing Survey drop in Birnam Library 09:30-11am and Birnam Arts Café 11am-12pm

23 Climate Café - Repair Café from Aberfeldy - repair and save items from landfill!

24 Film Club the Old Man and the Gun 2018 1:33m 12A 7:30pm Birnam Arts

26 Yes! Yes! UCS! 7 30pm Tickets: £12 + booking fee, U26 £10 Birnam Arts

26 Climate Café Martin Mathers from the HEAT Project Community Coworking Space (Old Doctors Surgery)

30th Dunkeld & Birnam Spring Art & Crafts Fair the Drill Hall The Cross Dunkeld 10am to 5pm free entry

30 Amulree Hall fund raising event - soup, coffee and cake form 10-2pm

May 2022

1 Dunkeld & Birnam Spring Art & Crafts Fair the Drill Hall The Cross Dunkeld 10am to 5pm Free entry

5 Climate Café 7pm Zoom / Community Coworking Space

15 Film Club Sweet Country 2017 1:53m 15 7:30pm Birnam Arts

20-22 Birnam Book Festival 2022

20-22 Book Festival Exhibition at the Archives ‘The Foresters Scribe’ by Ursula Kelly

25 AGM Dunkeld and Birnam in Bloom 2pm at Birnam Arts

29 Film Club Tom Jones 1963 2:9m X 7:30pm Birnam Arts

For dates further ahead see: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk

PETS Lost and Found

If you have lost or found a dog, cat or other pet

Missing Pets, Perth and Kinross 07432 368792 info@dogfriendlyperthshire.co.uk

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Contact the Advertising Manager adverts@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk 07967 117149

THE GARDENER

0777 546 0373

Call: Mon-Fri 8am-8pm Text: 7 days 8am-8pm FREE ESTIMATES HONEST, RELIABLE SERVICE

Grass cutting, Hedge cutting, Strimming, Leaf collection, Weeding/dig over, Edging, Gravel footpaths, Aerating, General tidy-up.

All General Garden Maintenance work carried out to the highest quality on every job, everyday

Gillian Vaughan Painter Decorator Interior / Exterior Feature walls Tel: 07841 116458 Email: thegirlcalledwill@gmail.com www.facebook.com/GillianWVaughan