Elizabeth Kostova Writer in Residence from Asheville seling in to her time in the village. See p6
Meet the Team
EDITOR Sally Robertson
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Kirsty Gowans
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Dunkeld & Birnam, The Bridge
The Bridge Newsletter is produced and distributed by Dunkeld and Birnam News CICa Community Interest Company Registered in Scotland SC813544
Editorial
I was sitting on the Newcastle Metro last week, doing a bit of people-watching. Or at least… trying to. Everyone else on the carriage seemed to be looking down at their phones — emails, messages, doom scrolling… who knows. It did make me think briefly of Ready Player One, where everyone disappears into their own virtual world.
Later, over coffee, I mentioned this to a social worker on the programme I was attending. She told me she makes a point of never going on her phone on public transport — and that some of her most interesting conversations have come simply from looking up and being open to what (or who) might come her way. I found myself slightly torn. Part of me thought, “yes, great plan!” — and the other part remembered all the times I’ve been very grateful for an uninterrupted hour to catch up on emails. But still… it stayed with me.
Because we are, after all, wired for connection. And the good news is — we’re rather good at that around here.
One of the quiet joys of living in Dunkeld and Birnam is how easy it still is to bump into people, have a blether, or find yourself in an unexpected conversation. You don’t have to look far — and you don’t have to spend much (if anything at all).
You might find it getting your hands dirty at the field, the orchard, or with Dunkeld & Birnam in Bloom. Or perhaps trying something new — I’m eyeing up the Bowling Club open day on 18th April. I’ve always enjoyed a bit of pétanque, so just how hard can it be? Though, if I’m honest, it’s less about the bowls and more about the chat and the laughter.
The library is another quiet hero. Pop in and it’s rare not to find someone up for a conversation. We set
ourselves the target of doubling membership by September and we’re already 75% of the way there — huge thanks to Mags and the team. And just to reassure you, it’s free to join and there are no fines… which is just as well, as I recently discovered one of my books was due back on 25th November. Oops. And then there’s Birnam Arts — do pop in before the end of the month to catch the Moths exhibition. The upstairs corridor there has become one of my favourite places for those slightly accidental, but often surprisingly rich and varied conversations, sparked by whatever artwork happens to be on the walls.
What’s especially lovely just now is how these connections are starting to overlap. From the In Bloom fundraiser at the Meeting Place coffee morning, to the Elizabeth Kostova Writer-inResidence events supporting the Book Festival — a bit of gentle cross-pollination that brings people together in new ways. Elizabeth may be back in the USA by the time the festival comes around, but the connections made here will last much longer. And if you’re looking for an immediate opportunity to put the phone away and have a blether, you could do worse than join the queue at the Fire Station Car Wash on 4th April, 10–2. Get the winter salt washed off your car (I’m still not entirely convinced they don’t use the fire hoses…!) and support our brilliant local fire crew at the same time.
Which brings me back to that phone dilemma… and to E M Forster’s famous line in Howards End: “Only connect…” He probably didn’t have the Newcastle Metro in mind — but the point still stands.
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 2nd April, A9 Community Group, Guide Hall 7.30pm - not 26th March as shown in last Bridge. Apologies that we didn’t know in time.
Our following meeting will be Thursday 30th April, A9 Community Group, Birnam Arts 7.30pm. Dualling of Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing:
Thanks again to those who came to our January and February meetings to discuss responses received so far to objections made to Transport Scotland during the statutory consultation period which ended in July.
And thanks again to those of you who have copied your submission/objection correspondence with TS to me - all welcome!
The Community Council has responded to TS and asked for a meeting, which every objector is entitled to do.
Please note the following from the TS cover letter to each response they sent:
“As you may be aware, it is possible for an objector to withdraw an objection or parts of an objection as matters become resolved, and such a withdrawal does not prejudice or otherwise adversely affect the position of the objector with regard to the unresolved parts of their objection. This is common practice. We would request that you provide Transport Scotland with written confirmation in respect of those aspects, all or any, of the objection which you now consider resolved.”
If you need clarification or wish to comment on any aspect of the TS reply to you, write to A9dualling@jacobs.com
The TS present timetable, subject to completion of statutory processes (which may include a Public Local Enquiry) is: procurement expected to commence Summer 2028, contract award expected Spring 2029, dualling expected to be operational by end of 2033 Dualling of Tay Crossing to Ballinluig:
Thanks to the residents from Dowally and Kindallachan who attended to discuss progress of the dualling preparatory work which started in November and various concerns.
Completion of the dualling of this stretch is expected to be end 2028 . We still await information about a contractor drop-in event for Dunkeld and Birnam.
Angela Newlands, Wills Community Liaison Manager can be contacted at AngelaNewlands@willsbros.com 01698 479230 or enquiries.A9TC2B@willsbros.com 0800 011 4255. The details of the dualling design for Tay Crossing to Ballinluig are at: www.transport.gov.scot/projects/a9-dualling-perth-to-inverness/a9-tay-crossing-to-ballinluig/project-details/
As always you can contact us at email: dunkeldA9workinggroup@gmail.com , also to have your details added (or removed from) our mailing list; or just phone me!
Exciting plans are underway for a magical new Beatrix Potter Garden Trail! Funded by the Scottish Government and created with Brilliant Trails, the project will bring Potter’s characters to life with new wooden sculptures, interpretation panels, and interactive elements in the beloved garden.
The free trail will include an optional activity book for children, enhancing a cherished local asset for families and visitors.
We welcome community input as we develop the designs.
To learn more, ask questions or offer support, please contact Julia Harriman at julia@birnamarts.com
Fragile: Moths, Life Systems & Us: Exhibition
Continues to Sunday 3 May - 10am to 5pm daily. Free. Presenting the findings of artist Jan Hendry’s project investigating moth species across Scotland.
Heron Valley
Thursday, 2 April – 8pm to 10pm. £18*
Heron Valley is a dynamic folk band hailing from Scotland, known for their energetic performances and captivating blend of traditional and folk music with contemporary influences.
Wayward Jane & Harry Bird
Wednesday, 8 April – 7.30pm to 10pm. £18*
Toe-tapping tunes, soulful songs, and irresistible harmonies — a fresh, transatlantic twist to American folk and Old-Time music. Fiddle, banjo, double bass, and close harmonies collide in a joyous, high-energy live show that’s packed with heart.
Warm Spaces: Free Film. Moulin Rouge
Tuesday, 14 April – 2pm
Complimentary light lunch at 1pm for the first 15 people to arrive. No booking required.
Mad Bad Lab: Theatre Workshop
Fundraising Event For The Birnam Book Festival Saturday, 18 April – 11am to 2pm
A theatre-based workshop that provides an opportunity to move, to play, and to make a space for radical creativity and self-expression without judgement. See BA website for Booking Link.
An Evening With Elizabeth Kostova
Saturday, 18 April – 7pm to 9pm. £12-£18*
Best-selling author of The Historian, The Swan Thieves, and The Shadow Land. Elizabeth is also Dunkeld and Birnam’s Writer in Residence.£35/£40*. With artist Jan Hendry.
The Colours Of Moths Workshop
Saturday, 25 April – 10.30am to 12.30pm. £25*
An introduction to making watercolour paint from earth pigments, as used by Jan for her current Moths exhibition.
See website for workshops and more: Birnamarts.com / 01350 727674
* Denotes Booking Fee
Birnam Arts Open 7 Days: Café: 10.00-16.00 | Shop: 10.30-15.30 Booking Fees apply to all events. Birnamarts.com / 01350 727674
Eduardo Martín & Ahmed Dickinson
Saturday, 25 April – 7.30pm to 9.30pm. £18/£6 U26*
Cuba’s international acclaimed guitar duo with their latest album The Bridge, blending classical, rock and Cuban folk traditions, with the infectious rhythms of the Caribbean.
FILM CLUB
The Marching Band
The film starts at 7.30pm, doors open at 7pm and refreshments are available. Non members welcome [£8], students and under 18s £4
Birnam and Dunkeld Film Society’s final film of the current season at Birnam Arts will be the French film The Marching Band [ “En Fanfare”, 2024], an endearing tale where a conductor, adopted ats a boy and diagnosed as needing a bone marrow discovers through dna testing he has a brother, a factory worker. The factory is under threat of closure and they form a marching band to raise funds....
Just Singin’
Community Choir, Birnam
We have had such a lot of fun this Spring term, led by fabulous tutor Emma Neck, singing everything from Ed Sheeran and The Cup Song, to Robert Burns.
Though currently on our Easter break, we are looking forward the start of our next term at 7.30pm on Wednesday 22nd April. As always, we will be meeting in the upstairs room at Birnam Arts and new singers are always welcome! It’s going to be a very varied term with two tutors who are new to our group leading the first four evenings, Nat Chalamanda and David McLean. The wonderful Hannah Rarity will be making a welcome return for the remaining four sessions. Please visit our website (www.justsingin. co.uk) for further details.
We would love you to come along and join in. A warm welcome awaits, and the joy of singing with a friendly, informal group.
Hope to see you there.
ATHOLL CAILLEACHS
A celebration for International Women’s Day through song, words, music and dance
After a very successful third annual concert for International Women’s Day on Saturday 7th March, we raised £569.80. This will be shared equally between this year’s chosen local charities, Linda’s Ladies and Perthshire Women’s Aid.
Thank you to our fabulous audience for coming along and supporting Atholl Cailleachs and our very worthwhile charities, we hope you enjoyed it as much as we did. See you all again next year for another show of collaborations between our outstanding local female performers.
Presented by Fiona Ritchie MBE, with special guest performances by Scots singer/songwriter Beth Malcolm and visiting poet Elizabeth Kostova from Asheville, North Carolina. This year’s Cailleachs were; Beth Malcolm – Scots singer/songwriter; Elizabeth Kostova, writer; Colleen Nicoll, soprano; Michelle Rodley, singer/songwriter; Jane Archer, writer; Lyndsey Douglas, dancer; Gill Hunter, pianist; Morag Anderson, poet; Emma Black, piper; Charlotte Caird, saxophonist; Lindsey Gibb, storyteller; Kelly McIntyre, photographer & film maker; Karys Watt, fiddle.
Grass Cutting, Hedge Cutting, Strimming, Gravel laid, Fencing, Turfing, Slabbing, Tree Work and all General Maintenance
Free Quotes Given
Kilry: 01575 560411
Blairgowrie: 01250 798403
Mobile: 07834 258491
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Arts News
Dunkeld & Birnam Traditional Youth Music Group
A big thank you to The Niel Gow Festival and Pete Clark and Muriel Johnstone inviting our junior and senior bands to perform at the Little Dunkeld Kirk, we had a great time and as always we’re very proud of our young musicians. Our older band members also enjoyed their complimentary workshop. We’ll be taking a break during the school Easter holidays and will be back to our regular class and band activities on Monday 20th April. Watch this space for our next public performance…
If you’d like to join one of our bands and can already play at least a little, they are suitable for most instruments. We welcome accordion, string, wind and brass players, guitarists, pianists, percussionists and more to come along and join in with our musical adventures.
If you would like to learn to play, or take up a second instrument, we run classes for whistle, guitar, fiddle and accordion with a
focus on learning traditional Scottish music. Classes are in small groups lasting half an hour, lead by our experienced and professional trad musicians. They’re completely free and we provide instruments, without cost, for our members to take home and use as their own. Suitable for P5 - S6.
All classes and bands run on Mondays during term time based at Birnam Arts.
½ hour group lessons - 4-6pm
Junior trad band (P5-S2) - 6:30-7:30pm
Senior trad band (S3-S6) - 7:30-8:30pm
We rely entirely on funding and donations to keep our group accessible to all and as always, our thanks go to SSE Renewables, National Lottery, Gordon Duncan Memorial Trust, Basil Death Trust, Scops Arts Trust, The Lang Foundation, Hugh Fraser Foundation and Enchanted Forest for their funding, and all of the local residents and groups who have generously donated support, money and instruments.
Email dbtradgroup@gmail.com or call 07958 324 766 for more info. facebook.com/dbtradgroup instagram.com/dbtradgroup
Elizabeth in Residence: The Story So Far
I’m visiting Dunkeld and Birnam until April 21 as a writer in residence from the town’s Sister City of Asheville, North Carolina. My initial two weeks here have been wonderful and full! I’m grateful for the very warm welcome from a vibrant community.
The theme of my residency is “A River of Words,” with a focus on writing about nature, in particular the River Tay and issues of climate change around it. It’s been moving for me to arrive here in Scotland just as the U.S. government has embarked on a devastating, illegal project of war in the Middle East.
In my first week, in addition to walking all over beautiful Dunkeld and Birnam and Birnam Wood, I visited a Climate Café meeting and reported there on Asheville’s experience of Hurricane Helene, gave two full days of poetry workshops about the River Tay at the Royal School of Dunkeld (one of the P1s assured me that there’s a troll in the Inchewan Burn, to my great pleasure!), toured Dunkeld Community Archive, attended a welcome gathering at the Birnam Oak Café (45 people came in for it—thank you!), met fellow writers living in the immediate vicinity, and sang a Bulgarian song in the annual Atholl Cailleachs performances for International Women’s Day. I also heard a maker’s talk at the Taybank and Sunday service at Little Dunkeld Kirk, where Reverend Penny wore his Asheville stole in honor of our twinned towns. I was thrilled to receive a Birnam Library card and check out my first book.
On that first Monday night, I got to see the Tay from Telford Bridge under a full moon, a sight I will treasure always.
By the beginning of my second week here, I’d begun to know my way around and was running into new acquaintances every few hours! I attended Sunday service and coffee hour at St. Mary’s, walked along the river observing early signs of spring, heard a lecture at Tayside Arts Society/Birnam Arts, visited Monday Memories group at the Community Archive and the Aberfeldy parish Warm Welcome coffee hour, taught a Level 1 writing class at Breadalbane Academy, and participated in an Aberfeldy Climate Café meeting at The Birks. I met with Ruth Brown of the Archive to learn more about the history of the Tay, and became a temporary but highly contented member of Just Singin’ practice sessions.
If you have a story about the Tay you’d like to share with me, please write: ekostova@umich.edu.
Elizabeth Kostova
Author, The Historian, The Swan Thieves, and The Shadow Land
Dunkeld Cathedral Art Exhibition
At the AGM in February it was agreed that the Exhibition would take place in the Duchess Anne in Dunkeld from Saturday 25th July until Saturday 29th August.
We will take in pictures on Sunday 19th and Monday 20th July and artists may enter up to three pieces of work, nothing bigger than 80 x 80cm. A £10 administration fee will be collected at hand in. Work should be brought to Dunkeld ready to hang where appropriate. Registration is online at http://www.dunkeldartexhibtion. com and this will be open from 1st - 31st May. The Exhibition is open every day from 10-4 and 12-4 on Sundays and we do need to recruit new stewards to help. We always have 2 stewards on duty and the times are 10-1 and 2-4 and 12-2 and 2-4 on Sundays. If you would like more information please phone Margaret Scott 01738 710399 or email Dunkeldart@aol.com.
The Meeting Place
We meet every Friday morning in the Duchess Anne in Dunkeld from 10am - 12. Friday 27th March will be in aid of the Brain Tumour Society, Friday 24th April - Dunkeld and Birnam in Bloom. Come and join us for some lovely home baking and good company.
Coming up with Elizabeth Kostova, Writer in Residence
Please join me at upcoming residency events:
Tuesday, 7th April
Walking Writing Workshop
Thursday, 9th April
Artefacts Creative Writing Workshop
My writing workshops are held at Dunkeld Community Archive. Sign up at: www.historicdunkeld.org.uk/what’s-on or just pop into the Archive at The Cross, Dunkeld, open Mon-Fri 10am-3pm.
Friday, 17th April
2pm ~ Coffee and walk along with river with poet and naturalist James Appleby from Edinburgh, and myself. Meet in the foyer at Birnam Arts. 7pm ~ James Appleby poetry reading, The Birnam Reader bookshop.
Saturday, 18th April
7-9pm at Birnam Arts
An Evening With Elizabeth Kostova. Join me for a farewell conversation and reading from my new novel, Mystery Play, which will be released in October, and maybe a special guest or two.
Auction with surprises from Asheville in support of Birnam Book Festival!
Tickets from Birnam Arts Box Office. I’ve also inaugurated a pleasant new weekly event. Members of the community of all ages are warmly invited to Victorian Reading Evenings at (of course) the Victorian Reading Room next to the Library at Birnam Arts. Dates are 9th and 16th April, 5-7pm. Please bring that book you’ve been trying to get to - or your homework - and enjoy the quiet with me. See you around the village!
Elizabeth
AIMS:
Sports, Health and Wellbeing
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.’
Dunkeld and Birnam Sports and Leisure Hub
Including:
Multi Use Games Area (MUGA), Tennis and Bowling
The Sports Hub (formerly the Rec Club) has overall responsibility for the clubhouse, tennis courts and bowling green and the Covered MUGA. We are a membership organisation and although people can pay per play, we are very keen to encourage locals to join as members at the very reasonable annual fee- you can decide to join just the MUGA or any combination of the clubs. The membership year runs from April but people can join any time during the year.
Visit: https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/ DunkeldandBirnamSportsandLeisureHub/ Membership/Join or Contact dbsportsleisurehub@gmail.com at any time for further information.
Booking for the tennis courts and MUGA can be done online at: https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/ DunkeldandBirnamSportsandLeisureHub
Dunkeld And Birnam Bowling
Club
Open Day
Saturday 18th April At 1pm
Come and join us on Open day to try your hand at Lawn
Bowling and participate in a fun day. You don’t need to have played before -All levels and standard welcomed Refreshments will be available – teas, coffee, sandwiches and the bar will be open For more information contact Mary Notman on 07843728380
Or email marynotman10@gmail.com
Dalguise Meditation Group
Do you have to be already fit to join a gym? Of course not. And you don’t have to be already calm, focussed and full of lovingkindness to begin to meditate. Quite the reverse, in fact, because those are some of the qualities that a meditation practice can help you to develop.
Whether you are completely new to meditation, or have an established practice, you are welcome to come to our meetings. These take place on the first and third Tuesdays of every month, from 10.30 to 12.30 in Dalguise Village Hall. So in April , meetings are on Tuesday 7th and 21st. We enjoy sitting and walking meditations, discussions and refreshments. There are no charges, no formalities, and no religious affiliations – what we do is decided among our members. But always the intention is to develop awareness, clarity and concern for others. If you aren’t able to attend in person, you might nevertheless be interested in going on our
mailing list. Members receive thought-provoking and helpful compilations about meditation and mindful living, in the weeks between live meetings. If you would like to know more about our meetings or about meditation in general, please do contact faithanstey@gmail.com
Breadalbane & District Riding for the Disabled (SCO47991)
There has been much preparation for the start of riding for 2026 on April 27th with indoor and outdoor training sessions reminding everyone of the routines etc. and introducing new protocols as advised by head office. We look forward to welcoming our riders some of whom will be well known faces but there will be new ones too.
Our single day at the Thrift Shop did well and helped boost our finances. Since then another charity has very kindly offered us four of their days 6th - 9th May. Incredibly kind and we are so grateful to have this opportunity to raise more money for our funds. It continues to be a headache for us as to how to raise sufficient funds to cover our running costs.
Volunteers are an essential part of RDA and without them we cannot operate. Our entire group is run by volunteers so we continue to be on the look out for new volunteers to ensure the survival of the group. No knowledge of ponies or riding is necessary but if you are interested please do get in touch by contacting Helen at our email address breadalbanerda@gmail.com
Sports, Health and Wellbeing
The photograph shows Bob Merriman and Denis Cairns, both long-standing members of the club, holding the new trophy. The trophy has been generously funded by Denis and his wife, Euna Cairns, while the trophy stand was crafted by fellow member Bob Merriman who is a carpenter by trade. The stand has been crafted from a piece of Black Walnut that Bob had kept to one side, ‘just in case!’
“The whole idea of the plate competition (New Trophy) is to keep as many members as possible involved in the tournament. It’s for all those players who were knocked out in the first round. Their names are then drawn in the plate competition, keeping them playing tennis rather than missing the opportunity after one match,”said Denis. Denis and Euna were keen to support the continuation
of the club’s in-house competitions and celebrate the long history of tennis in Dunkeld and Birnam. The club’s first Men’s Singles trophy was presented in 1922 and continues to be engraved on the same trophy today!
Denis and Euna hope the new award will encourage more people to get involved in tennis and make the most of the health and social benefits the sport offers, as well as the excellent facilities available in the community.
“We’ve made many friends, enjoyed many social events, and kept fit thanks to the facilities here,” Denis added. “We really appreciate that the club is managed by volunteers for the benefit of all its members.”
The new trophy will now become part of the club’s annual competitions, further strengthening the legacy of tennis in the Dunkeld and Birnam villages.
Birnam Oak Café, nestled in the heart of Birnam, the gateway to the Highlands. A short walk from Dunkeld & Birnam station, and with the Beatrix Potter Garden, the Birnam Oak Tree and the beautiful River Tay only a few minutes away by foot.
All our dishes and prepared fresh to order. We’re a small, friendly team who really care about what we do, . Pop in to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the tunes, the coffee, the food & the craic!
• Breakfast: Traditional & Workers breakfasts, filled croissants, Dunkeld smoked salmon with Rotmell regenerative farmed eggs, creamy porridge, home-made pancakes, breakfast rolls…every morning until 12 & all day on a Sunday!
• Coffee: We only serve Glen Lyon Coffee to ensure you experience the best in coffee making & tasting.
Tea: We love serving our traditional loose-leaf tea in our little tea-pots with our beautiful mix of yer granny's bone china Nothing beats real tea in real teacups!!
Treats: Delicious selection of cakes/traybakes, cheesecake, apple pie, crumble, scones & pastries…we like to change it up all the time and always try to cater for various dietary requirements
Wine: Fantastic collection of wine from around the globe for both off-sales and on-sales….come & enjoy a glass of wine/cheese/nibbles with friends in The Nest, our relaxing sofa & comfy chair zone.
Antipasti: Deli counter filled with a lovely choice of cheeses, meats, olives, sundried tomatoes, artichokes.
• Gifts: A lovely selection of pocket-sized gifts, cards and accessories.
Contact us to discuss your catering requirements. Ashleigh makes all the amazing food, bursting with flavour. Jane does what Ashleigh tells her to do….it works really well ! email: hello@feast-catering.com
Nature and Climate
Paths & Nature Action Group
With the hint of spring, the curlew, lapwing and oystercatchers already heading inland and the first sand martins spotted on the Tay near Perth - its time to build and instal nest boxes. It’s easy to make your own and put them up in your garden. Find instructions for different birds on the RSPB or BTO websites. We have made and distributed several swift boxes. Our swifts return in May so there’s still time to create new nest sites for these incredible birds. Swifts may not use boxes in their first year but other birds like sparrows, which are also great fun to watch, may use them in the meantime.
Paths works still to be decided but, meanwhile take a pair of secateurs with you on walks to clip back those encroaching brambles etc to help keep paths open.
For further information contact: stewart.pritchard@aol.com
Spring is on the way!
This is the time when it all happens up at the Field, ground to be prepared , compost spread, tatties, onion sets and seeds to be sown, seedlings planted out, crop protection structures built and membranes laid. It doesn’t matter if you have no experience of these tasks you will soon pick them up and will have plenty help and guidance as we all throw ourselves into the Spring tasks on which the next 11 months harvest depends.
You will smell the earth warming, see buds, blossom and shoots appearing and colour coming back to the trees. there is an air of excitement when we experience the first really warm days and discard fleeces and jackets whilst working. Thursday and Saturday mornings are our work days but at this time of year some of us may be up there at any time in order to make vital progress and get everything planted.
News from the Community Orchard
This, for many of us, is the “exciting month” as flowers and foliage begin to bring more colour back into our lives after the dark winter. Soon the orchard will be adorned with blossom in many shades of white, cream and pink, whilst daffodils bring a splash of yellow. The pollinating insects will be busy and we hope the weather will be kind with not too many storms as strong winds prevent them from flying and also knock blossom from the trees, leading to less flowers and as a result less fruit.
Over the past month we have been getting as much winter pruning done as possible before the leaves unfurl and the trees are in active growth. This pruning aims to improve tree health, fruit production and shape, not always easy as some of the trees have grown at odd angles or been pruned somewhat haphazardly in their youth, whilst some of the trees which are nearer the river grow crooked as they reach for the light away from the tall trees there. Nonetheless, come autumn we generally
have a fantastic crop. At this time of year we focus on pruning the apples and pears, leaving the stone fruit (cherries, plums and damsons) for another couple of months as they are less susceptible then to silver leaf disease, to which they are prone. The soft fruit has also had a bit of a haircut and a feed in the hope of producing new wood for future years’ fruiting.
The community orchard is to your left just before you cross the bridge into Dunkeld. We are a group of volunteers who have been looking after the orchard since 2008. At harvest time the fruit is distributed free to members of the community. “Big Apple Day” – our annual community harvest celebration – will be on Saturday 26 September this year. As we struggled a bit with the winter pruning due to fewer volunteers this year so we’d love to hear from you if you might be able to join the team. You can email us at:
dunkeldbirnamorchard@gmail.com or find and follow us on social media.
There are several types of volunteers and activities from which to choose the Busy Bees, the Sowing machines, the Persistent planters, the, Picky Pickers, The Slash and Burn mob, Heavy Lifters, Odd Jobbers, Pottering Potters, Weary Weeders, Combined Harvesters or if you must the Coffee Brewers or Idle Chatterers. At the end of the day. they all contribute to getting the job done and having a convivial time up at the Field. As we are dedicated to the common ownership of the means of production and the most equitable distribution of the fruits and vegetables of our labours, you will be encouraged to take home produce according to you or your family’s needs.
The rest goes on the stall at the gate or food share until the village stalls open in July. Refreshments are served every day with our Coffee and cakes receiving high praise. Come up and see us sometime!
The Orra loon
Slating
Gutter
Flat Roofs Repaired Or Replaced • New Roofs
General Building Repairs & Maintenance
Rivendell provides high quality care and support for you and your elderly relative. Based in Birnam and Dunkeld our homely environment provides a safe and fun community spirit. Our trained staff provide care and support for all your needs 24 hours a day, we are always there.
So, if you are looking for social contact, a safe and supportive environment, support with health or medical needs then contact us. Our mission is to provide a home for life, so come and live life with us.
Please phone 01350 727413 and speak to Gina or email: manager@rivendellcarehome.co.uk.com for more information.
Rails and slats Ranch Boards, Garden Sleepers -Various sizes Loose Bark and Woodchip
Birnam Library is run by Culture Perth and Kinrossa charitable trust bringing art, culture,
Three Churches in the Community
THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH
Fraser Penny
When Jesus was crucified, the accusation against him was nailed to the cross above his head. It read ‘Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.’ That in itself led to a dispute between Pilate and the local leaders but there is an interesting fact included in John’s Gospel. We are told that the inscription was written in Hebrew, Latin and Greek – a wee indication that Jerusalem, then as now, was a melting pot of cultures, languages and sectarian conflict.
Nothing much changes then! Here we are 2,000 years later and the Middle East burns once again – still a melting pot of cultures, languages and religion only now the weapons are much bigger and more destructive. Three months ago we sang the Christmas Carol ‘It came upon the midnight clear’ which has the line – ‘beneath the angels’ hymn have rolled two thousand years of wrong.’ It was in this mayhem that Jesus brought his message of peace and mercy. Of God’s kingdom, so different from the kingdoms of this world. He refused to participate in the world’s ways and instead took all the wrong and violence on himself, pleading for change, yet still it goes on.
That’s why I find it so objectionable when Christian nationalists enlist Jesus to support their cause. That is perhaps most obvious in America just now, but it is creeping in here too with marches organised by the likes of Tommy Robinson.
What a mess humanity has made of things and to claim that Jesus – Jesus who died in preference to killing for his cause - would participate in that is nothing short of blasphemy.
The accusation above him was written in different languages for all to see. The words from his mouth are a universal language:
‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.’
Schedule for Holy Week & Easter Triduum 2026
Church of Scotland Services
Mar 29th Palm Sunday (and therefore the last Sunday in Little Dunkeld until November)
11.00am Morning Service in Little Dunkeld
6.30pm Prayers for Help & Healing in St. Mary’s (Please note this is a week earlier than usual.)
Apr 5th Easter Sunday
9.00am Communion service in the Cathedral
10.30am Easter Egg Hunt in the Cathedral grounds
11.00am Morning Service in the Cathedral
Apr 12th 11.00am Morning Service in the Cathedral
Apr 19th 11.00am Morning Service in the Cathedral
2.15pm Service in Amulree Kirk (Including the Sacrament of Baptism)
Schedule for Holy Week & Easter Triduum 2026
St Columba’s Birnam PH8 0BJ Our Lady of Mercy, Aberfeldy PH15 2AL St Brides Pitlochry PH16 5AL
Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord 28 March (Vigil)
Mass 16:00
Mass 09:30
Mass 11:30
Fig Monday 30 March Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions 18:00
Holy Mass 19:00
Temple Tuesday 31 March Stations of the Cross 09:00 Aberfeldy
Temple Tuesday 31 March
Spy Wednesday 1 April
Spy Wednesday 1 April
Apr 26th 11.00am Morning Service in the Cathedral
Followed by the Annual Stated Meeting
May 3rd 11.00am Morning Service in the Cathedral
6.30pm Prayers for Help & Healing in Little Dunkeld.
Stations of the Cross 09:00 Aberfeldy
Holy Mass 09:30
Holy Mass 09:30
Stations of the Cross Noon Birnam
Stations of the Cross Noon Birnam Holy Mass 12:30
Holy Mass 12:30
Maundy Thursday 2 April Solemn Mass of the Lord’s Supper & Watching at the Altar of Repose until Compline at 9.00pm 19:00 21:00 Pitlochry
Maundy Thursday 2 April Solemn Mass of the Lord’s Supper & Watching at the Altar of Repose until Compline at 9.00pm 19:00 21:00 Pitlochry
Good Friday
May 10th 11.00am Morning Service in the Cathedral Marking the start of Christian Aid Week Every Sunday there is chance to meet together over tea and coffee after the service.
The next one will be in St. Mary’s on the 29th. and then in Little Dunkeld on May 3rd.
Good Friday FASTING & ABSTINENCE
3 April Office of Readings & Morning Prayer 10:00 Pitlochry
Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion 15:00 Pitlochry
FASTING & ABSTINENCE 3 April Office of Readings & Morning Prayer 10:00 Pitlochry
Kirk Session
Holy Saturday at the Tomb of Christ
Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion 15:00 Pitlochry
Holy Saturday at the Tomb of Christ 4 April Office of Readings & Morning Prayer 10:00 Pitlochry
4 April Office of Readings & Morning Prayer 10:00 Pitlochry Solemn Vigil of the Lord’s Resurrection 20:30 Pitlochry
The Festival of Easter 5 April
Solemn Vigil of the Lord’s Resurrection 20:30 Pitlochry
Solemn Mass 09:30 Aberfeldy Solemn Mass 11:30 Pitlochry
The Festival of Easter 5 April Solemn Mass 09:30 Aberfeldy Solemn Mass 11:30 Pitlochry
If you would like to attend any of the Easter Triduum events and require transport, please speak to Canon Steven. Similarly, if you are able to offer transport to another parishioner or parishioners to one of these events, please make Canon Steven aware of this. Thank you so much.
If you would like to attend any of the Easter Triduum events and require transport, please speak to Canon Steven. Similarly, if you are able to offer transport to another parishioner or parishioners to one of these events, please make Canon Steven aware of this. Thank you so much.
Holy Week
On the Thursday of Holy Week (2nd. April) there is a Communion Service in the Cathedral at 7pm. to remember the events of the night Jesus was betrayed and handed over to be crucified.
On Good Friday the Parish church and St. Mary’s Episcopal Church hold a join service. This year it is in St. Mary’s at 7pm.
Prayers for Help &
Healing
There is a change to the usual pattern this month. Because Easter falls on the 1st. Sunday
of the month it has been decided to bring the Prayers for Help & Healing service forward a week to March 29th.
This is held jointly between the Parish Church and St. Mary’s Episcopal Church at 6.30. This follows the pattern of the weekly service of healing in Iona Abbey and lasts about 45 minutes.
It is a very gentle, quiet time of worship and prayer for specific things people may mention if they want to, or you can simply join in the service and have your own time of prayer.
THE 3 CHURCHES CHARITY SHOP
Kirk Session will meet for a short time after the morning service on March 29th to approve the accounts for 2025.
The next regular meeting of the Kirk Session is on April 28th. at 7.30pm. in the Duchess Anne.
Annual Stated Meeting
The ASM of the Church of Scotland congregation will be held after the morning service on April 26th. This gives an opportunity to hear about the finances and also a chance to get an update on proposed building works.
Fellowship Group
‘Exploring faith and life together’
Two Fellowship Groups meet, fortnightly, one on a Tuesday evening at 7pm and the other on Wednesday mornings at 10.30am, both in the Chanonry.
The Tuesday group has taken a new direction with ‘Coffee & Questions.’ Everyone has questions about life, belief or ethical issues which bother them – whether it be assisted dying or world peace
We are an independent local charity raising money for our 3 local churches. All money raised is divided by three equally and presented to each Church. New Volunteers always welcome – just pop in and let us know if you are interested in joining our friendly team. SC043359
Three Churches in the Community
or….? You are invited to come along and add your questions to the mix. One will be drawn out each night to provoke discussion on that theme. So, if there is an issue about faith or life you would like to discuss with others then come along. No special knowledge is required, just a willingness to be stretched and challenged. Upcoming meeting sf the Tuesday group are the 7th. & 21st. April at 7pm.
The Wednesday group will meet next on the 25th. March, 8th. & 22nd April, gathering at 10.15 and starting just after the Men’s Breakfast. All Welcome.
Both meet in the Chanonry but if you would like to join by zoom let Fraser know and that can be set up.
Men’s Breakfast
Every second Wednesday a group of men meets in the Chanonry to start the day with a cooked breakfast together, discuss events, both local and international, and enjoy each other’s company. Upcoming dates are 25th. March, 8th. & 22nd April. There is no need to book; just turn up and enjoy and all are welcome.
Christian Aid
Our local Christian Aid group will be raising funds for valuable development work in different parts of
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 4pm. Every Saturday
Monthly and Occasional Services
Church of Scotland, Amulree Third Sunday of the Month 2.15pm
Contact Details:
Church of Scotland: Congregational Office Bearers:
The Chanonry, Cathedral Street, Dunkeld PH8 0AW Tel: 07736 423198
e-mail: sessionclerk@dunkeldcathedral.org
Treasurer: Mrs Louise Luke
The Chanonry, Cathedral Street, Dunkeld Tel: 07773 604372
e-mail: treasurer@dunkeldcathedral.org
the world over Christian Aid week which this year is 10th-16th May.
We will be doing the usual second-hand book sale outside the Duchess Anne on 8th & 9th and 15th &16th. May. Donations of good quality books are always welcome and can be brought to the Duchess Anne on Friday mornings when the Meeting Place is on or left in the food share hut in front of the Duchess Anne anytime.
And we are always looking for people to come along and buy!!
One of those Fridays the Meeting Place proceeds will be given to Christian Aid and hopefully the Youth Group will also do a Coffee morning on a Saturday morning. More details will follow in the next Bridge.
Your support for these efforts is always much appreciated as we raise what we can to support people in the most difficult circumstances, to support the livelihood of their families and community.
Youth Group
A group for all P.7s and upwards meets during term time in the Duchess Anne on Thursday evenings Each night we start at 7pm. and finish at 8.30pm. More information from Fraser Penny.
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
Snowdrop Day raised over £1000
A successful Snowdrop Day raised over £1000 for church funds. Many thanks to everyone involved and to all who came and supported the day.
The All Together meetings continue on the first Thursday at 2pm. This is an informal time of music and refreshments for everyone - the church is accessible and these sessions are for young and old, those with dementia and all who like a sing-a-long.
Members enjoyed an away-day for Lent at the Bield where we spent time in prayer and in enjoying the gardens there.
Tina our new Rector says “I have been made very welcome and look forward to continuing to settle in to community life alongside my duties in the church.”
Church Services and Contacts:
Covenant Officer: Mrs. Ann Bryce
Tomnagrew House, Dunkeld PH80BX
Tel: 01350 723228
e-mail: annbryce228@gmail.com
Organist & Choir Leader: Mrs Hazel Murch
Tel: 07867 642954
e-mail: music@dunkeldcathedral.org
Parish Office: Mrs Jill McCrory
The Chanonry, 07808 703641 email: chanonrydunkeld@gmail.com www.dunkeldcathedral.org
St Mary’s Episcopal Church, Birnam
Sunday Service 10am - Communion with hymns, music and sermon, followed by refreshments. 3rd Sunday ALL AGE.
Once a month on third Friday there is a short prayer service in church at 6pm followed by a shared sandwich supper. During summer months (Apr-Sept) the church is open daily for visitors.
The monthly Servite worship service is at 2pm on the last Saturday of each month, led ecumenically by folk from the three churches in Dunkeld and Birnam
The Rector: Rev. Tina Minett Stevens email: tina@minettstevens.co.uk
Treasurer: Charles Cox
Vestry Secretary: Adrian Freer
Tel: 01821 650536
email: adrianfreer@btinternet.com
Tel: 01350 727755 (www.stmarysbirnam.org.uk)
Roman Catholic Churches Mass Times
St Columba’s Catholic Church: Birnam (PH8 0BJ)
Saturday Mass 4pm
Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church: Aberfeldy (PH15 2AL)
Sunday Mass 9:30am
St Bride’s Catholic Church: Pitlochry (PH16 5AL)
Sunday Mass 11:30am
For any further information please contact: The Parish Priest: Canon Steven Mulholland stbridespitlochry@dunkelddiocese.org.uk
Egg g Hunt East g s er
Fun for all the family at Birnam Arts this Easter with our ‘Easter Egg Hunt' in the Beatrix Potter Exhibition Can you find all 12 eggs Peter Rabbit has hidden?
Friday 3 - Sunday 19th April rd
10.30am - 3.30pm (last entry 3pm)
Upgrade to our ‘Easter Holiday Pass’ to get unlimited entry & special offers Visit our Shop Counter for more info
HWith
oliday Pas Easter
Moreinfo& orvisitour ShopCounter
A great value pass for familes visiting throughout the Easter Holidays Valid 3 - 19 April th
Unlimited entry to the Beatrix Potter Exhibition for 2 adults & up to 4 children
Join in our Easter Egg Hunt 10% off in our Gift Shop Discounts in our Cafe
Dog Chaperone for Weddings Ad Hoc / One Off Dog Walks for One Household at a time Day or up to 1 Night Dog Sitting Hello@solopaws.co.uk On Facebook and Instagram
Join us for a two day free WRAP® workshop to self-reflect, learn skills
Dunkeld & Birnam Guidehall, Little Dunkeld
Where people and nature thrive
Dun Coillich is a community owned landscape regeneration and rural skills training project in Glen Goulandie. The site is owned by the charity Highland Perthshire Communities Land Trust, which manages the land for wildlife and for the local community.
HPCLT Annual meeting and lecture
If you would like to find out more about our work, please join us at our annual meeting at the Birks Cinema on Saturday 25 April from 2pm. Our guest speaker will be Anthony McCluskey from Butterfly Conservation. Anthony lives locally and will be speaking about special butterflies and moths of Highland Perthshire, some of which are found at Dun Coillich.
For more information, please contact projectofficer@hpclt.org.
Apprentices and Rural Skills Trainees
We were delighted to receive lots of strong applications for our Apprenticeship scheme, an innovative partnership with FLS, NTS Ben Lawers and Kynachan and Dalchonsie
Nature and Climate
Estate. The two Apprentices appointed have progressed from our Traineeship. We very much look forward to working ‘on the hill’ with new apprentices and the new rural skills trainees during the year ahead.
HPCLT at the Aberfeldy Thrift Shop in February Thanks to everyone who came along to support our February stint at the Thrift Shop in Aberfeldy, it helped us raise some funds and it was good to talk to visitors about our work.
Join us!
Why not become a member of HPCLT? Our members support our work and become part of our community. Annual membership is £15; to find out more please go to https://www. duncoillich.org/support-us-2025/.
For more information
Visit the What’s On page of our website www. duncoillich.org to find out where we are, what we do and how to book. You can also follow our Facebook Group (Dun Coillich Community Land) for regular updates!
Wild about Inverbroom
Scottish Wildlife Trust talk Monday 20th April
Join the Pitlochry and Highland Perthshire branch of the Scottish Wildlife Trust for our final talk of the season – and it’s a big one! We’ll
Dunkeld and Birnam in Bloom
One Monday morning we tackled replacing the 5 barrels in St Ninians gardens. The fushias and clematis had been in the barrels for at least 10 years, so you can imagine the roots that had to be dug out. Anyway with some grit and determination we got them out and replanted. Time will tell if they like their new home and produce their usual colourful display of flowers later in the year.
Dalhia and begonia tubers have been taken out of their winter storage, from various volunteers homes that have spare shelves, cupboards or even a turret and we will start the process of potting them up.
During April we will be busy baking, jam making and splitting plants to sell at our coffee morning
Gardening & Growing
Club – Join Us!
We’re a friendly bunch who Love plants? Whether you’re a windowsill potterer or a plottaming pro, our Gardening & Growing Club is for you!
We’re a friendly bunch who enjoy learning, sharing tips, and meeting fellow garden
on Friday 24th April between 10-12 in the Duchess Anne in Dunkeld. Any plants not sold will be taken over to St Ninians gardens where we have an honesty box (or hole in the shed door) for donations to be made for plants taken.
Our AGM is to take place on Monday 27th April at 10am in Birnam Arts where everyone is welcome to come along.
We meet on Monday mornings at 10am. Groups can be found in St Ninian’s Garden, Dunkeld and Torwood Park, Birnam. Anyone who would like to come and join us, please do.
Thank you - Moira (07931 758 456)
enthusiasts. Our year is packed with inspiring talks, garden visits, social events, and our big annual show in August.
First meeting FREE – come along and give it a try!
Annual membership: Just £25 for a year of green-fingered.
Everyone’s welcome! Drop by, meet like-minded folks, and grow something wonderful with us. For more info dbggclub@gmail.com
START OF THE NEW GARDENING AND GROWING YEAR
26th April 2026
10th May 2026
Visit to the Japanese Garden, Dollar.
Visit to rhododendrons at Glendoick House Gardens
10th June Sally Lorimore of Willowhill to give a talk on the Hellebores at Willowhill Gardens
15th July 2026 Murthly Walled Garden
22nd August 2026 The Annual Show, Birnam Arts
16th September 2026 Falkland Palace Gardens
14th October 2026 Talk on Cacti and Succlents
18th November 2026 Wreath making at the Guide Hall
be hearing about the Trust’s ambitious plans for nature restoration at Inverbroom Estate in the Highlands.
Acquired in 2025 Inverbroom Estate is the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s largest ever land acquisition, made possible by a £17.5 million private donation, the biggest gift in the charity’s history. Covering 7,618 hectares – larger than the city of Dundee - the land was previously managed as a sporting estate and includes a diverse range of habitats such as peatland, ancient semi-natural woodland, farmland, and numerous lochs and lochans.
Come along to hear about the Trust’s plans for habitat restoration across the estate and discover how the project will support wider efforts to tackle the nature and climate crises.
Date: Monday 20th April 2026
Time: 7:20pm for a 7:30pm start (finishing around 9:00pm)
Venue: The Tryst, Church of Scotland, Church Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5EB
Suggested donation: £3 non-members / £2 members (cash on the day).
For more information contact: markandrosie@btinternet.com.
To hear about future events, sign up to the Scottish Wildlife Trust mailing list: https://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/sign-up-toour-mailing-list/
DRINK, CHAT, ACT
Part of the growing Climate Café® movement that began in this village over ten years ago, the Climate Café® Dunkeld & Birnam offers a welcoming space to share ideas, news, concerns, practical actions and find out more about local initiatives to tackle the climate emergency – all over a friendly cuppa. The café connects our community with the wider network of Climate Café® spaces springing up across Scotland and beyond, making it easy to learn, connect, and take action together.
Join the chat and action in the Coworking Space in Little Dunkeld, the first Thursday of every month from 7pm - 9pm. There’s no formal agenda, chat is led by those who come along, it is a place to share information, keep up with events, get support with your ideas and find inspiration.
Find out more at www.climate.cafe or follow the conversation online #ClimateCafe #DrinkChatAct
Learning and Community History
Library Community Challenge!
Friends of Birnam Library are setting the community a challenge to double the number of active borrowers in our community from 220 – 440 by September 2026 and show to everyone how much we value Birnam Library! It’s free to join the library – just pop along to the library to join or renew your membership if you have lost your card – and you don’t even need to be able to read to join .. you can join as soon as you are born!
Please check that your membership is with Birnam Library so your membership counts towards our target!
Did you know .. our library also has jigsaws for borrowing and space for book groups to meet? You can also order books online using the Spydus app which is free to download.
If you would like to join the community group contact us at: friendsofbirnamlibrary@gmail.com
Friends of Birnam Library: A Community Group committed to a bright and sustainable future for Birnam Library.
DUNKELD AND BIRNAM REUNION GROUP
INVITE YOU TO
The Annual School Reunion
Afternoon Tea 2pm - 4pm Saturday 25th April 2026 at The Guide Hall
Little Dunkeld
(for pupils who attended The Royal School of Dunkeld during the 40s 50s 60s & 70s)
Tickets (£8 each) will be available from Dunkeld Community Archives or can be bought online through Eventbrite. This follows on from the two previous years’ successful Reunions. It was decided to make the Afternoon Tea an annual event when former pupils can gather and meet up with old school friends.
During the Afternoon Tea there will be an opportunity to look at an exhibition of school photographs from Dunkeld Community Archives
Further contributions of relevant photographs would be gladly received. (We can scan and copy your original photographs and return them to you.)
12 The Cross, Dunkeld, PH8 0AN. www.historicdunkeld.org.uk manager@historicdunkeld.org.uk 01350 727786
LIVING HISTORY EVENTS 2026
Tickets via Eventbrite or links on our web site.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARIES
OPENING HOURS
Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm
May: Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd - Sir Arthur Erskine Regiment training camp in Stanley Hill park plus guided tours. Musket & Canon displays, the gore of the Barbers Surgeon and much more!
June: Sunday 28th (WORKSHOP 12 tickets only) - Step into a richly detailed Jacobeaninspired apothecary brought to life by The Historical Herbalists CIC.
July: Wednesday 29th July (WORKSHOP 12 tickets only) - Join Emma from Bog Born Crafts for a chance to use the techniques and tools of Neolithic and Bronze Age people to craft replica Beaker-style pottery.
August: Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd Jacobite Festival 2026; The 21st is the 337th anniversary of the battle. Join us in the Perth Arms at 7.30pm to hear the story of Killiecrankie and Dunkeld.
Sir Arthur Erskine Regiment camp and guided battlefield tours in Stanley Hill park.
YOUNG ARCHAEOLOGIST CLUB
Fortnightly on a Thursday, 3.30pm to 5pm in the Archive for children age 8 – 16. Next meeting - Thursday 23rd April.
ADULT ARCHAEOLOGY/HISTORY CLUB
If you become a ‘Member’ of Historic Dunkeld, you gain free access to our Archaeology Club. Check our Members page on our web site.
St Jerome’s Chapel project - The Geophysical Survey went very well last month and we hope to have the results with you in next month’s Bridge. Our funding applications are in, so fingers crossed we can proceed with excavation to establish a date.
We plan to excavate further at King’s Seat Hillfort this year with Prof. Gordon Noble, so now is the time to join our membership to get involved.
All talks and skills workshops for the club will be held in the rooms above the Perth Arms at 7.30pm. Please feel free to grab a drink on your way up!
Thursday 26th March: Skills workshop - Excavation skills with Bob Carchrie.
Thursday 30th April: Skills workshop – Skills workshop with Dr Lucy Dean – Latin/Scots & understanding medieval documents.
MONDAY MEMORIES CLUB
Monday in the Archive from 3.00pm to 4.30pm in the Archive. Reminisce over tea/coffee & biscuits.
If you need transport please get in touch as we have a taxi available.
Newsletter
To keep up with all our news and what’s on in Historic Dunkeld, sign up for our free monthly newsletter.
Sign up at: www.historicdunkeld.org.uk
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Home Repairs and Improvements
Carpentry : Plumbing : Tiling Glazing and Decorating
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Learning and Community History
Moore House Group Butterstone Campus
Staff Spotlight: Adam Moffat’s Journey to becoming Deputy Head of Care of Moore House Group North
Affectionately dubbed the “King of the North” by a colleague, Adam oversees five residential care houses across Fife and Perthshire. His journey into social care began by chance during university, but he soon realised he had a knack for the work. “I started to find I was really good at building relations with the kids,” he recalls, “and I got a huge amount out of helping them progress.” When Adam joined Moore House in 2023, he was initially struck by the beauty of the Dunkeld Campus, but it was the organisational culture that made him stay. “The more I read about the organisation and then when I started meeting key leaders, I was really impressed by how the organisational values matched up with my own personal values,” he explains. To many, Moore House is known for its specialist schools, but Adam’s role focuses on the essential ‘other half’ of the young person’s journey: Residential Care. As Deputy Head of Care, Adam leads the teams that provide a “home away from home” for our children and young people. This isn’t just a place to stay, it is a therapeutic environment that works hand-in-hand with the Dunkeld Campus education team. As a leader, Adam is in charge of a diverse team of managers and practitioners, but he views his role as a facilitator rather than an overseer. “Service Managers are recruited and appointed on the basis of their skills and experience,” he says. “My job is to ensure they have tools and support to put those skills to the best use.” He believes that “exceptional practice occurs when Managers are allowed to use innovation and out-of-the-box thinking.” By empowering his staff, he ensures the best possible environment for the young people in their care. Ultimately, Adam’s mission is rooted in a sense of belonging. “I feel it’s really important that our kids all feel accepted,” he says. “Regardless of where in the organisation you sit, I really believe everyone at Moore House embodies that.” His hope for every young person is simple yet important: “That kids felt wanted. I want every kid who stays with us to feel that during that time people wanted to spend time with them.” To learn more about what Adam and the rest of the staff team do, visit our website: moorehousegroup.org.uk/the-jane-moore-trust
News from Dunkeld Community Fire Station
Dunkeld Mobile Service
Thursdays 9.00am – 10.00am Dunkeld North End Car Park, Atholl Street, Dunkeld, PH8 0AR
• Royal Mail & Parcelforce Worldwide
• Cash withdrawls
• Cash Deposits Services
• Everyday Personal & Business Banking
• Cheque Deposits
• Driving: vehicle tax
Alternative Branches:
Please check opening times and that these branches have the services you require.
Last month we said thank you to James Coutie for his incredible 10 years of dedicated service as an on-call firefighter at Dunkeld Community Fire Station. James will be stepping away from his role after a remarkable decade of service. James has shown unwavering commitment to protecting our community and the surrounding area. For many years, he served as our only Crew Commander — a role that carries significant pressure and responsibility. He ensured the fire engine was available and ready to respond, providing vital cover all year round. His leadership and reliability have made a lasting impact at the station and the community we serve. James will continue to be involved with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in Perth. He will leave very big shoes to fill at Dunkeld. As we look to the future, we are actively recruiting 5 retained firefighters to join our team and help continue providing essential fire cover for Dunkeld and Birnam.
If you have ever considered serving your community in a rewarding and meaningful way and live or work within 8 minutes of the station, now is the time to step forward. For more information follow this link https://www. firescotland.gov.uk/careers/on-call-firefighter/ Thank you again, James. We wish you all the best for the future.
Press release April 2026
Highland Perthshire Plus was established in March 2023 and quickly grew into a well-supported, community-led organisation, gaining charitable status in October 2024.
Highland Perthshire Plus provides meaningful volunteering opportunities for adults with disabilities through our Star Project and delivers sports and leisure activities for children and adults with disabilities in partnership with Scottish Disability Sport. Working with Perth & Kinross Council, the Board is exploring the development of a supported housing scheme in Aberfeldy in the coming years.
Our membership continues to grow, supported by a committed and experienced Board. In this role, you will also be supported by the Highland Perthshire Plus Development Manager.
Highland Perthshire Plus is seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to join the team as a Family Support Worker for our Connecting Families project.
The Family Support Worker will play a key role in maintaining and strengthening connections with families across the region, while providing vital support to those experiencing Additional Support Needs (ASN) or disabilities.
The role will involve building supportive relationships with families who are at different stages of their journey, including those who are beginning to understand the challenges associated with a family member’s additional support needs, as well as families already navigating these experiences. For more information and to receive an application pack, please email info@hpplus.net or call Lindsay on 07830402407.
See our advert on page 10 for more details
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Dark Green Delivered directly to homes and businesses in Dunkeld and Birnam - every month.
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Community Developments
Dunkeld and Birnam & District
Community Development Trust
We have made important progress over the last month in relation to affordable housing. We have recently appointed
Fraser/Livingstone Architects to lead a team of consultants to progress feasibility work for future community-led homes at Birnam Park, the area of land at the southern end of Birnam which in recent years has been known as “the carrot field.” FLA’s work will build on the hard work of all who have taken an interest in this, as well as the prior engagement work which informed the Community Action Plan, Community Housing Needs Survey and last year’s Local Place Plan. This exciting new phase of work
will involve further engagement events, with the consultant team keen to collaborate with the wider community to explore options and discuss ideas to help inform the future delivery of any new low-density homes and other possible community uses. Events are likely to be held late April/early May - see our website and local publicity for more details or email us.
Our Energy Group is working on a funding bid so that we can explore in more detail options that will enable the community to actively shape and benefit from its local energy future. The project will bring together residents, businesses, community organisations and technical experts to design a community-owned renewable energy programme tailored to local needs and opportunities. The initiative aims to reduce household energy costs and address fuel poverty; generate long-term income for community benefit; strengthen local climate resilience and enable residents to participate directly in the renewable energy transition.
We are delighted that the Artisan Village project which seeks to create affordable workshop space for creative businesses has been awarded further funding from the PKC Advancing Community Assets Fund. The group will now be able to commission a business plan and develop the design proposal in readiness for a Stage 2 Community Asset Transfer Request for the derelict garage and land at the back of the North Car Park from Perth & Kinross Council.
A New Chapter in Community-Led Care for Rural Perthshire
Scotland’s rural communities face a quiet but urgent crisis. With an ageing population, rising demand for care and a system designed for cities rather than glens, too many people in remote areas have been left without the support they need. In Rannoch & Tummel and Dunkeld & Birnam communities that rank among Scotland’s ten percent most access-deprived areas - the absence of reliable care at home has meant delayed hospital discharges, growing pressure on families and people unable to remain in the homes and communities they love. That is the challenge Heartland Cares was created to meet.
Their answer is already making a difference.
Rooted in our Vision - caring communities where everyone is valued, connected and supported to live their best life - Heartland Cares is a notfor-profit social enterprise owned by and accountable to the communities of Dunkeld & Birnam and Rannoch & Tummel. It has been designed from the ground up by local people, for local people, ensuring that the wealth, jobs and decisions generated by this organisation remain firmly rooted in the communities it serves. Our Mission is equally clear: drawing on that deep local understanding, we provide community-led support that connects people with each other and with the help they need to thrive. In practice, this means delivering care at home, volunteer befriending and hospital transport (R&T) - weaving together professional services and the warmth of community volunteers to create a joined-up circle of care tailored to the realities of rural life. Every decision we make is guided by one simple principle: what is best for the people we serve.
Introducing Our CEO: Dr Divij Suri
We are proud to introduce Dr Divij Suri as Heartland Cares’ inaugural Chief Executive Officer and Home Care Manager - a role that demands a strategic vision to build a pioneering organisation from the ground up. A medical doctor holding an MBBS, an MBA in International Business and an MSc in International Health Management from Imperial College Business School, London, he brings rare academic distinction alongside deep,
We are pleased to be supporting the Community Council which is leading on local traffic, parking and active travel challenges, important work as the busy tourist season approaches. More feedback and ideas came out of the public meeting held on 10 March, building on the results of the recent parking survey.
Finally, many thanks to all who helped to organise and supported the recent “Safari Dinner” organised by the Care Group.
The Trust is a charitable organisation owned and managed by the local community. We were formed in 2022 to take forward the initiatives highlighted in the Community Action Plan and enable and support beneficial community projects. In addition to the work of the Care, Housing, Energy and Artisan Village groups we support a number of other local groups, projects and initiatives such as the Food Share and Paths and Nature Group. For more information see Home | Dunkeld Birnam And D
Our new Development Officer Mel Nicoll is now in post and working Tues-Thurs from the Co-Working Space. As a volunteer-led organisation we would be delighted to hear from members of the local community who are interested in getting involved, whether at Board level or by supporting us or any of our partner groups or projects in other ways. Please contact us on dbdcdt@gmail. com Minutes of our monthly Board meetings can be found on our website as well as information about membership.
hands-on expertise in healthcare operations, finance and governance. Over a distinguished career spanning clinical practice, health service management, academic leadership and healthcare consultancy, Divij has developed a commanding breadth of experience across the full spectrum of healthcare delivery, governance and system improvement. Heartland Cares is currently building its team and preparing to launch services across both communities. If you would like to stay informed, volunteer, work with us or simply learn more, we warmly invite you to get in touch: info@heartlandcares.org, divij@heartlandcares.org
The United Lodge of Dunkeld - Donations
The United Lodge of Dunkeld are looking for local groups/good causes to give donations to. This is something we do annually.
If you know of any local organisation that would be interested in such a donation contact us on secyonefour@gmail.com
Three Churches Charity Shop
March has been a very busy month for us as we have had our annual winter sale whereby all clothing and shoes have been selling at half price. Customers are constantly amazed by the quality of our goods and many return each year to see what is new in store.
We are now looking forward to displaying our Spring/Summer collection, let us hope for another lovely warm summer like the one we had last year.
As always we are on the lookout for new volunteers so if you can spare a few hours each month we would love you to join our team. Happy Easter to one and all
Notes from a Councillor
Suddenly it is Spring and the world appears to be spiralling into self-destruct mode!
Whilst President Trump is poking the bear in the Middle east, we can rest assured that we can safely save a couple of pounds of CO2 by digging up the Perthshire Countryside and filling it with concrete to house a few wind turbines! Whilst I agree with the need for green energy, I also believe that we have amassed more than our fair quota and as custodians of our beautiful Countryside, we should protect what we have.
The Council budget has been set at an eyewatering 8.9% and ironically included circa £1.3M to tackle poverty and climate change. I was dismayed that funding for the Visitor ranger service was not included.
This seasonal team helps to support communities with the influx of tourists and campers into local beauty spots in the more rural areas of Perth and Kinross and works with partners such as Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Forestry and Land Scotland and various estates and land managers.
In recent years, there have been a large number of incidents caused by irresponsible visitors to local beauty spots, some involving littering, vandalism, theft, blocking access to farmland, fire raising and noise complaints and generally made local residents feel safer. However, there have been occasions where local residents have suffered serious physical and sexual violence caused by these visitors.
This vital service has been in place since 2021 and they have educated visitors to our beautiful Lochs and beauty spots and prevented damage and disturbance in some of our outstanding Sites of special Scientific interest and made local residents feel safer.
Those of you who know me will know that I do not hold specific surgeries, I prefer to react directly with anyone who contacts me and deal with their issue at their convenience. My email is ijames@pkc.gov.uk or if you prefer to call me on my mobile: 07761988308.
News from our Community Council
Have Your Say: Help Shape the Future of the SSE Griffin & Calliacher Community Fund
The SSE Griffin & Calliacher Community Fund has been supporting local projects and groups for 15 years. Over that time, the communities have grown, changed, and faced new challenges and opportunities and SSE want to make sure the fund continues to make the biggest possible difference for local people. This is why SSE are asking residents to take part in an important consultation that will help shape how the fund operates in the years to come.
The main purpose of this consultation is to ensure the fund still reflects what our communities need today. While the fund has achieved a great deal since it was first established, we know that priorities evolve, new issues emerge, and different ideas come The consultation will explore how local people feel the fund has been performing, what has worked well, and where improvements could be made. It will also ask questions about the kinds of projects and priorities that matter most to residents today. These might include jobs and skills, support for young people, community facilities, the environment, transport, housing, or other local issues. Your insight will help us understand what is most important in your area.
To make sure everyone has an opportunity to take part, the consultation will use several different ways to gather views. The main method is a survey, which will be available both online and in paper format. Paper copies will be available in local community venues, and you can also request one if that’s easier for you. A leaflet will be delivered to households to raise awareness and encourage participation.
The survey will include a mix of open-ended questions, so you can share your ideas in your own words, and simple tick-box questions to help us understand what you see as the top priorities going forward. Every response will contribute to building a clearer picture of what local people want from the fund.
You can also share your views in other ways. SSE will be working with Community Councils, so you can speak with us directly if you prefer. Posters and local promotion will help signpost opportunities to get involved, and SSE will be hosting in-person events at various locations. These sessions will let people explore issues in more detail, hear others’ ideas, and have interactive discussions about the future of the fund. There will also be engagement activities with schools, ensuring young people’s voices are included.
The consultation is being run by IBP Strategy and Research, an independent organisation specialising in community engagement. They have significant experience in this type of work, including large-scale surveys with communities across Scotland. Their independence ensures that all responses will be handled professionally and confidentially.
This is your chance to influence how the Griffin & Calliacher Community Fund works in future. By taking part, you’ll help ensure the fund continues to support the projects, priorities, and opportunities that matter most to our communities. We encourage everyone to get involved and share their views. The consultation is currently being designed and we will promote it on our Facebook page and website as soon as it becomes available.
April ‘Stick on the Fridge’
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.
Organisations - General
Phone 01350+
3 Churches Charity Shop 07751 593421 Anne Graham
Alcoholics Anonymous (Helpline) 0800 917 7650
Chapter House Museum 727786 Ruth Brown (in Dunkeld Cathedral, open 7 days) archive@historicdunkeld.org.uk
D&B Paths and Nature Action Group stewartpritchard@aol.com
DBDCDT Dunkeld Birnam District 07864 232116 Community Development Trust www.dbdtrust.org/ Dunkeld & Birnam Community Orchard 727048 Katharine Melville dunkeldbirnamorchard@gmail.com
Dunkeld & Birnam Historical Society 07584 434253 Dave Roberts daveroberts132@btinternet.com
Dunkeld & Birnam in Bloom 07931 758456 Moira Forbes Forbes50@hotmail.co.uk
Birnam Arts 727674 Manager admin@birnamarts.com arts@birnamarts.com
Birnam Arts Ballet (Mon – Thurs, Emma Gray age 4 upwards & adults) ballet@birnamarts.com
Cathedral Tower Bell Ringers 742218 Iona Connor lowesfarm@hotmail.com
Dunkeld and District Strathspey & Reel Society 07740 664052 Theresa MacVarish Clark secretary@dunkeldstrathspeyandreel.org Film Society 727740 Tom Barnard tom_barnard@btinternet.com
Just Singin’, 7.30pm Weds (BA) 07765 405203 Katie Dalgliesh www.justsingin.co.uk
Traditional Youth Music Group 07958 324 766 Karys and Gill dbtradgroup@gmail.com and Facebook
Annual Events
Art Exhibition dunkeldart@aol.com Margaret Scott
Arts & Crafts Fair (Apr, Aug & Nov) 727968 / 07743 400938 Na’an Meikleour poppyseednaan@yahoo.com
Christian Aid Week 727867 Jim McCafferty
Highland Games (August) 07880 588433 Duncan Sim duncan_sim@hotmail.com
Niel Gow Festival 07766 406313 Liam Manion (weekend closest to 22 March) LManion41@gmail.com
Nursery at Royal School of Dunkeld 01738 454470 Royal School of Dunkeld Sunday School – Church of Scotland 727249 Fraser Penny
Local Organisations - Continued
For Younger People
Girlguiding Dunkeld (Rainbows, 07770 324173 Trix Stephen Brownies, Guides, Rangers) (District Commissioner) The Black Watch Army Cadets 07429 113439 2nd Lt Craig Ross 1989ros@armymail.mod.uk
Youth Group (for P7s & 1st years, 727249 Fraser Penny Thurs 7 – 8.30pm)
For Older People
Caledonia HA and Willowbank House 07595 651446 Joanne Lawrie joanne.lawrie@caledoniaha.co.uk
Senior Citizens 727311 Ronalda Pattullo
Hall Bookings
Amulree Village Hall 07749 914906 Isabel Brady northamulree@btinternet.com
26 Big Apple Day at the Community Orchard, Bridge St, Little Dunkeld
Oct 14 Gardeners and Growers Talk on Cacti and Succlents
26 Community Council Meeting & AGM 7-9pm venue TBA dunkeldandbirnamcc.co.uk
Nov 18 Gardeners and Growers Wreath making at the Guide Hall.
30 Community Council Meeting 7-9pm venue TBA dunkeldandbirnamcc.co.uk
Dec
5 Santa Day Saturday 5th December
For more information on groups that meet regularly and for dates further and for all contact information see www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk If you notice an inaccurate entry or that contact information needs updating please contact the editor on editor@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk Thank you
