The Bridge
Edited by volunteers for the people of Dunkeld, Birnam and the surrounding villages since 1974
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It’s interesting to see how much news we have despite the lockdown When I started putting The Bridge together, I thought it would be a very slim edition – but our community never ceases to amaze and impress me with its creativity and optimism People have sent in articles about ‘local hero’s’; book prizes; zoom meetings not to mention our very own lockdown quiz Thank you so much to the Nicoll’s family for taking the time to devise this and good luck to you all in getting full marks – see page 3
Like so many new admirers I have been enjoying the Niel Gow statue in Little Dunkeld It seems every time I walk past, someone is standing by it having their photo taken or decorating it with a scarf or hat Niel Gow was sixty when Rabbie Burns met him on his Highland tour In his journal, Burns described Gow, who played for him, as 'a short, stout-built Highland figure, with his greyish hair shed on his honest social brow an interesting face, marking strong sense, kind open heartedness mixed with unmistrusting simplicity' It seems to me the sculptor, David Annand, has done a remarkable job of capturing the essence of this description
Many congratulations to Pete and everyone on the Niel Gow Festival Committee for all their energy and commitment over the years in envisioning, fundraising and commissioning the statue If the piece of land the statue stands on doesn’t have a name perhaps it might become known as ‘Fiddlers Green’ and be the place where many a fine tune is inspired to be written? It is
such a shame that there can’t be a Niel Gow Festival this year however hopefully we can celebrate next year Keep an eye on the festival’s facebook page for updates on what is happening on-line this year
The good news is that, despite the current snow, Spring is on the way Snowdrops and crocuses are pushing their way through the icy soil and the days are lengthening once again What a year it has been –hopefully we will soon be seeing the start of some sort of normality and we can raise a dram to Niel Gow and brighter days
Working constructively to get the best community outcomes from the A9 dualling proposals
The next A9 Community Group meetings will be on Thursday 25th February and Thursday 25th March, by Zoom unless otherwise notified Matters covered at the December and January A9 Community Group Meetings were:
• While still awaiting an update from TS/Jacobs on progress on the design of Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing, discussion of possible scenarios and responses including new community consultation;
• Follow up with the Community Council on interim safety measures at Birnam junction;
• Submission from the Group to the Transport section of Perth and Kinross Council’s consultation on Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, regarding both design/construction of the upgraded A9 and public transport issues;
• The new local Community Action Planning survey ;
• The Scottish Government transport and infrastructure budget for 2021-22; The lack of progress by Transport Scotland in addressing the platform height issue at Dunkeld and Birnam station
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 is: http://www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/community-council/a9-dualling Information from TS is available at: https://www transport gov scot/projects/a9-dualling-perth-to-inverness/a9-pass-of-birnam-to-tay-crossing/
I live in Birnam and I have become increasingly concerned about the dangers at the junction between Birnam and the A9
Each time I drive to Perth I am amazed at the changes taking place with the dualling of the A9 between here and Perth It looks as though it will not be long until it is finished
Did you know that when this happens, motorists would able to drive from Plymouth to Birnam on a dual carriageway or a motorway? The complex Birnam/A9/Bankfoot junction will then be the first time drivers will be on a single carriageway negotiating traffic turning left, right and crossing over the road For example if we are traveling north to Birnam we will have to sit in our vehicles in the middle of that single carriageway waiting to turn right This is a very scary prospect I have already experienced big lorries flashing their lights at me as I sat waiting patiently to turn right into Birnam I am also aware of other people having potentially dangerous experiences at this junction
We know that there is no fixed timescale for dualling work at this junction We still do not have a decision from the Scottish Government about the preferred route so
we will be at risk using this junction for a long time to come
I think it is very important that this junction is made safer as soon as possible I would like to hear from people who would like to start an action group to make this happen I would also like to hear from people who are concerned and have similar stories to mine A lot of work and thought is being put into the future proposals for the A9 Equally, it is now time, we should be looking at proposals to make this junction safer, especially at night, until the major road works start Some measures that could help would be lighting the junction (all major junctions on the A9 between Perth and Stirling are lit), warning signs about the upcoming junctions on the single carriageway road, a 50mph speed limit through the Birnam, Dunkeld, Dalguise Junctions
I would like to hear about your experiences and suggestions It is important that this action group works closely with the A9 Community Group and the Community Council but it would provide an immediate and additional focus on the issues at this junction at a time that the dualling of the Luncarty to Birnam Pass is being completed and the dangers will increase
Please contact me, Pam Green at: pammgreen@btinternet com 01350 728926
To mark a unique year, the pupils at the Royal School of Dunkeld have put together Our Lockdown Book, together with local author Molly Arbuthnott A creative collection of all their lockdown experiences, and the nature around them, the book also raises money for the parish of Dunkeld
“The school is a wonderful primary school in Dunkeld, thriving under Nicola William’s very capable leadership and following the motto that ‘we love to learn The idea was to channel the loneliness, hardships and difficulties we have all endured into something positive and something that can help the community around us,” says Molly, a former primary school teacher, who lives in Caputh “I felt that having gone through an experience like lockdown it was a great opportunity to reflect on what we had all experienced in a positive light and a way to raise money for the cathedral too
The book is illustrated with drawings and photos of craft the children made and it’s obvious the pupils truly entered into the spirit of the book
“I think that we should look at every hurdle thrown our way as a great opportunity to build ties within our communities and always to look at the solutions rather than the problems,” she reflects
Our Lockdown Book is £7 99 and available from mollyarbuthnott co uk or through local Dunkeld bookshops
My Favourite Books! Chat with Molly about your three favourite books mollyarbuthnott@gmail com for details
by David McNicoll
reaches of Europe rise to become a worldwide phenomenon? That’s the first question asked in this book Secondly, most decent bars and stores have a wide range of Scotches, but what do their names actually mean? It’s not something we really think about, but it lies rooted in the social history of Scotland A large proportion of these derive from farm names, which is understandable since whisky was mostly an agricultural by-product The names, in turn, reflect the various languages historically spoken across the country Whisky gives us a glimpse into the world of our ancestors and allows us to see that world through their eyes That’s the essence of The Language of Whisky This book also strips away the veneer of self-proclaimed expert-speak and brings whisky back to where it belongs: hearth, home, and, of course, good company
David McNicoll is a son of Dunkeld, brought up in Inver and attending both the Royal School and Breadalbane Academy In 2004, he set up his own firm called Scottish Routes, which was dedicated to whisky travel He moved to America in 2010 and has represented several Scotch and Gins as Brand Ambassador in New York In addition, he hosts night-classes in the history of Scotland and freelances as a whisky specialist in private tasting sessions across the city David makes the journey back to Dunkeld as often as time, and his eight-year-old twin boys, permit He is already planning the next trip home
In 2017 I set off across the Outer Hebrides of Scotland with my ditsy mare Connie and my deaf dog Pip The quest was to try and finally bond with Connie, who had severe behavioural issues which had caused me more than one hospital visit in the 18 months that I had owned her Carrying all of our own equipment, including tent, cooking kit and a coral for Connie, we set off from Vatersay the most southerly of the Hebridean islands and simply headed north Some 19 days later we ended up at the Butt of Lewis having crossed 13 islands and travelled nearly 300km Camping under the stars each night and topping up supplies in the small villages we passed we had journeyed together, both physically, but more importantly, mentally Connie’s behaviour improved each day The tantrums she previously suffered (so bad that the vet had actually given me two syringes full of sedative) were no longer present and the rearing non-existent by the end One small bite at being asked to stand whilst being interviewed by a local journalist was thankfully the only one! We returned saddened that our adventure was over but left with an experience that will never leave any of us When I was on our adventure I kept a diary It was a way of reporting on Connie’s behaviour and gave me something to do whilst sitting in the tent listening to the rain it rained on 17 of the 19 days! I had fundraised during the trip via a Facebook page and through a charity tin I had attached to Connie’s saddle Amazingly by the end of the trip I had raised over £5000 which I donated to the Riding for the Disabled I then decided to write up my diary and try to sell it to raise further funds The book sold well and I donated £1000 to The Dogs Trust where Pip came from and another £1500 for other animal charities In the summer of 2020 I was asked by the Equus Film Festival to submit my book for the International Equine Travel award I dually submitted it and when the award festival took place late last year I confess to not even watching the live award ceremony I had looked at the entries and there were some very well know authors and some amazing stories of epic adventures Well you can imagine my shock at waking up the following morning to an email informing me that I had won! Really I feel that it should be awarded to Connie and Pip who blindly followed me day after day on my mad adventure! I feel very humbled to have won
So what now? Well, I still sell the books and am currently fundraising for the SSPCA (£6 55 inc postage and can only be bought through me either via The Deaf the Daft and the Disty Facebook page or email Karen a inkster@hotmail com) I am also doing a talk on my adventure via Zoom on February 26th Tickets are £6 50 and all proceeds go to charity You need to book tickets in advance via https://www eventbrite co uk/e/the-deaf-the-daft-and-the-ditsy-fundraising-zoomtalk-tickets-139407612923 And I am planning another big adventure with Connie and her new companion Monty the Mustang, who makes Connie’s behaviour seem insignificant but that’s another story!
So if you see us hacking around Dunkeld, Caputh, Spittalfield or Murthly then please stop and say hi To keep an eye out for the next adventure please visit our Facebook page www facebook com/thedeafthedaftandtheditsy or my business page www facebook com/Equine-Unlimited
Many thanks to the Nicoll family for this fun, local quiz Answers in the next edition of The Bridge Good luck!
Anagrams – local places
1 O, BIN A MARK
2 OCH, FOLLOW THESE
3 A NEW CHIN
4 NUMB BRIDLE RIGG
5 STOLEN RAMPS
6 LEND LIVER
7 TEN TO BUSTER
8 I BETTER TRAP, DRAG OXEN
9 LET’S SLOW UP
10 CAN GIVE RAIN
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Cryptic local shops, businesses and landmarks
1 Ovine in birthday suit
2 Large strong chest for distilled spirit
3 Endless, down-in-the-dumps toothpuller
4 Cerulean corvid
5 Headgear atop dwelling
6 Triple ecclesiastical emporium
7 Shop/activity venue for those who think they’re losing their marbles
8 Place of nurture for waterbird in small pool of liquid
9 Most excellent, lowest cardinal number
10 Explosive periodical publication near the Taybank
11 Grease a rock?
12 Resonant river-crossing
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Local knowledge
1 How many arches does the Dunkeld (Telford) Bridge have?
2 What was the unit and tool used for measuring cloth and which gave its name to a local shop?
3 What was the gunpowder stored in the “Magazine” on Boat Road used for?
4 Whose relics were brought to Dunkeld in 849?
5 What were the three houses/places that Beatrix Potter ’s family stayed at between 1871 and 1881?
6 Which two larch species cross-pollinated to create the hybrid Dunkeld larch?
7 What fibre was grown, spun and woven in the 18th century at the old settlement of Tomgarrow?
8 When were the tolls removed from the Dunkeld bridge?
9 What little bird, which can sometimes be seen on the Inchewan walk, amongst other places, is known as the “Water Bobby”?
10 On what mountain is the source of the Tay?
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The memorial to fiddler Niel Gow was installed in Little Dunkeld on Thursday 10th December, at a location on the Birnam side of Dunkeld Bridge, beside the footpath leading across the grass area to the Royal School The life-size bronze sculpture by Scottish artist David Annand has proved to be a popular addition to the village-scape and it has been interesting to see how light and weather conditions affect its appearance (Not long after the installation, one or two folk were taken aback when coming across the figure of a man loitering about the footpath at dusk!)
Sadly, due to the prevailing virus situation, it was not possible to hold a celebration on the day Once this pandemic is behind us (and who knows when that will be?) we will of course hold a gathering and concert to officially “unveil” this fine memorial
This significant achievement has been possible only as a result of the generous support and donations given by so many individuals and organisations, and I would like to take this opportunity to say a sincere thank you all on behalf of the Niel Gow Festival Society
The past year has been a difficult time for everyone Those in the world of performing arts have of course lost a huge amount of work, though online activities have blossomed and there has been the bonus of much "free" time for creativity to flourish
There will be no Niel Gow Festival this March, although we are looking into putting something on line, possibly a retrospective slide show with background music
Pete Clark
- Chair, the Niel Gow Festival Society (Reg
People come to meditation for different reasons Sometimes they are going through a particularly difficult or worrying time, looking for some respite and to learn ways of coping Other folk feel there is 'something missing' in their lives, a sense of meaning and purpose that meditation might provide Some are interested in exploring the contrast between the practices and ideas associated with meditation and the conventional beliefs and habits of our culture
Our meditation group welcomes everyone, whatever their reasons for coming We have no religious affiliations, don't try to talk people into anything, and don't make any charge At present we can't hold face-to-face meetings, but we keep in touch by email: every week a piece is circulated with wise words from respected meditation teachers from al over the world One week it might be advice on how to build a meditation practice at home; another time a discussion about dealing with pandemic anxiety; or the value of cultivating gratitude for all the blessings of life Members often respond to these topics with their own thoughts or experiences
If you would like to join our mailing list, simply contact faithanstey@gmail com and start reaping the benefits of meditation
If you are a beginner to meditation, we can also send you some pieces to get you started
A series of weekend personal insight workshops with Jamie and Sarah Jauncey at Birnam Arts and other locations
Tel: 07971 511952 / www thestorieswetell
A new route: Dunkeld Moors Loop
Connecting Dunkeld with the Cateran Ecomuseum and Cateran Trail in Blairgowrie, Scotland’s Berry Capital, this ride offers breathtaking views over the moors and lochs of the eastern edge of Highland Perthshire and the iconic River Tay
Total Distance: 62 9 km
Total Ascent: 730 m
Terrain: Quiet & private roads, cycle paths, single-track, landrover tracks
Route Category: Expert Riding Time: 6 – 7 hrs
Start/Finish: The Scottish Deli, Dunkeld
The Perthshire Gravel Trails offer you a choice of 11 different day trips and a long-distance bikepacking route To make it easier for you to choose the route that best suits you, we have now listed the day rides by start location and difficult Follow HPC on Komoot
Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels are looking for local volunteers to assist with grey squirrel dispatch within the ‘Highland Line’ – specifically in Crieff, Comrie and Dunkeld
We are working hard to deliver red squirrel conservation within the ‘Highland Line’ in Tayside We aim to prevent the invasive non-native grey squirrel from replacing red squirrels north of the ‘Highland Line’ Grey squirrel control is delivered by a combination of project staff, landowners funded via the Forestry Grant Scheme, and volunteers We are looking for local volunteers to take on the role of ‘on-call dispatcher’, providing vital support to trapping volunteers, as and when required
For further information on the ‘Highland Line’, the role description and the person spec please see: https://scottishwildlifetrust org uk/volunteering/savingscotlands-red-squirrels-grey-squirrel-dispatcher/ Training will be provided
Perthshire www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk
The Bridge covers news specifically relating to the PH8 postcodes however we are aware that wider news from Highland Perthshire is of interest
IRIS, your community owned e-magazine from Heartland As ever we have a wide range of topics from all across Highland Perthshire written by the people that live here We have 9 videos featuring walks, talks and interviews plus a great number of photographs showing off this amazing part of the country IRIS would love to hear from you whether it be video, audio, photography or a written copy get in touch magazine@heartland scot IRIS February 2021
The Highland and Strathtay Stronger Communities Team : Cat, Audra, Fiona, Alison, Jeannie and Jeni The team publish a weekly newsletter with all kinds of info relating to Highland Perthshire The latest newsletter includes info on:
• PKC Communities Service January 2021 Funding alert
• Time For Me Fund
• CAP’s Debt Counselling Service 24-7 Mental Health and Wellbeing Support for Young People
• Nutrition Training
• Supporting Good Mental Health Training New SCQF Credit Rated Course in Digital Inclusion
• Food Growing Strategy consultation
Also see: The Quair Magazine Pitlochry Life
Scottish Gas Networks is upgrading their gas network in Dunkeld - replacing our existing gas mains with new plastic pipe
Their essential work will ensure our community receives a continued safe and reliable gas supply for many years to come
The work will take place from Monday, 8 February in Atholl Street for two weeks and traffic management will be via give/take
There’s a strong sense the world will be much changed when Covid restrictions finally recede “Getting back to normal” could take a long time and, of course, normality may look and feel quite different from life pre-pandemic Our local community has responded brilliantly to the difficult circumstances, including many volunteers working together to help support those struggling and most isolated Out of that great voluntary effort a local group has formed to explore how we can take the community forward in the future: PH8 Community Matters
PH8 Community Matters wants to engage with every local resident to stimulate conversations about how we want our community to look over this coming decade and has been working hard in the background to win support from Perth & Kinross Leader and from the SSE Griffin & Calliachar Community Fund to prepare and deliver a Community Action Plan for the PH8 area
Securing funds means this project can be delivered in a professional, methodical manner but still include fun activities and approaches
This spring the PH8 group, in partnership with The Bridge, will deliver a survey asking you for your thoughts and ideas for our community: Where the problems are, what works well and, above all, what should we prioritise in the short, medium and longer term You’ll be able to complete a paper version of the survey in a special edition of The Bridge, get involved online and – restrictions permitting – at community events, focus groups and activities for all age groups Mapping out our hopes and ambitions for the future will help us all take at least a little bit of control of how the “new normal” takes shape in our community So if you have a PH8 post code look out for PH8 Community Matters on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram – and a lot more to come in future issues of The Bridge!
For further information emaii: ph8communityvision@gmail com, or visit our webpage at: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk
At the present time we have suspended all sales from the gate because of the Covid restrictions and the current spell of bad weather However we are looking forward to better weather and the eventual lifting of the current restrictions
This exciting project known as @ the field, has been set up to grow food organically with and for the local community of Dunkeld and Birnam We are now entering our tenth growing season in our field at the top of Brae Street, Dunkeld
Another successful harvest last year included some new crops eg Blue Anneliese Potatoes, autumn raspberries and different squashes and pumpkins Plus favourites such as broad beans, peas, swede, parsnip as well as potatoes, courgettes, onions, leeks, lettuce, spinach, carrots, French beans, beetroot and many varieties of herb Our hand tied bouquets of marigold; nigella, cornflowers, sunflowers, sweet peas and dill are very popular There will be some new varieties of flowers, vegetables and herbs this season, so look out for them at our twice weekly stalls starting in July We grow the food for the wider community and ourselves We welcome folk to become members whether they can work @ the field or not Your membership fee helps to pay our rent and other ongoing costs You will reap all sorts of benefits such as having a 20% discount on our produce You also have free or low cost access to any workshops we run In addition you can work @ the field or selling or distribute produce as often or seldom as you can manage We will let you know of opportunities to volunteer some help You can contribute your own expertise in many other ways We also have a wonderful AGM and harvest supper at the beginning of November each year
As a member you can have a say in how the group is run; you can vote at members’ meetings; do what you can to ensure our project fulfills its objectives; vote for the volunteer trustees who form the board and take on the organization of the project
You will be interested to know that we are a charity , a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) and our charitable objects are:
1 To advance citizenship and community development by encouraging cooperation and mutual support to produce food organically for local consumption in a changing economic and physical environment;
2 To achieve this by managing a sustainable and environmentally responsible growing project for the benefit of all;
3 To promote education within the community in organic food growing, care, harvest and distribution and ensure a better understanding of the connections between what we eat and how it is produced, delivered, and prepared
Dunkeld and Birnam Community Growing SCIO Scottish Charity Number SC042496
For more information: You can email us: dblandtrust@btinternet com
Facebook: www facebook com/pages/-The-FieldDunkeld /357191637668930
Check our website: www dunkeldfield co uk
Dave Roberts (Secretary) 01350 728926
Dave Amos (Membership) 01350 727763
More than 770 people tuned-in to the Watchnight carol service from Dunkeld Cathedral on Christmas Eve Did you miss it? No problem, just point your phone’s camera at the QR code or search YouTube for ‘Dunkeld Online’ You will find a lot of videos on the channel and not just services but other music videos too – all produced by the parish team Make no mistake, these are well produced and delivered videos which would not look out of place on the BBC There’s wonderful photography reflecting the area through the seasons and drone footage as well as excellently produced music alongside the more traditional content of Bible readings, prayers and uplifting Reflections The parish team have been putting these services online every week since the original lockdown started back in the Spring of last year; the service on 21st February will be the 50th online service – and that’s not counting a dozen other special events and music videos
The Minister, Rev Fraser Penny (pictured), says: “Far from being an emergency stop-gap while our church buildings are closed, going online has meant that we can do many more creative things, engage with more people and bring some much-needed company to those stuck at home Church-going isn’t as popular as it was a generation ago and we know there are many who might find our buildings a bit intimidating Going online has meant that anyone interested can see what goes on without themselves being seen We don’t know who
you are! You can watch at anytime, anywhere on your phone or tablet and leave whenever you like ”
Virtual choirs have become on obligatory part of
lockdown life and the Dunkeld Parish team do not disappoint Hazel Murch, the parish’s Director of Music has had to learn a lot of new skills! She records a music track on the cathedral’s organ or piano This is then emailed to all the choir members who then separately sing their own parts at home and email their tracks back to Hazel who then mixes all the contributions back into a choir Harmonies, descants, saxophone and flute tracks are also becoming a feature of the music Local singer, Karen Kelman, provides solos and adds her own videos and photography to the musical output
The picture shows Fraser Penny recording a solo song called “The Oxen,” written by church member Rachel Drury, which featured in the ‘Christmas from Dunkeld’ video Do check it out The overcoat gives you a clue to how cold the cathedral is in December!
For a relatively small parish, Dunkeld has achieved so much and it is no wonder that hundreds of people tunein every week Videos go “live” at 11 00 on Sunday mornings but can, of course, be viewed at any time after that Use the QR code or go onto YouTube and search for ‘Dunkeld Online’
The River Tay Way – a new long-distance walking and cycling route through Highland Perthshire – has been chosen as a Co-op Cause in Dunkeld to benefit from the Co-op Local Community Fund
Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust (PKCT), who are developing the River Tay Way, want to get the community involved in developing the route in Dunkeld and Birnam
PKCT aspire towards installing signage, develop a leaflet, design interpretation, develop a website, and other promotional activities to promote both routes to local people and visitors, when restrictions ease
The cycling route follows NCN 77 through the grounds of Dunkeld House Hotel; the walking route follows core paths from Griffin Forest to the Hermitage and on past Birnam Hill
Andy Barrie, PKCT’s Strategic Routes Officer, who is leading the development of the River Tay Way, said: “Access to open spaces continues to be extremely important during the COVID-19 pandemic
“We want to encourage greater use of the countryside for mental and physical health and wellbeing
“The River Tay Way offers visitors a way to explore to some of Perthshire’s most spectacular sites; it links communities between Kenmore at Loch Tay all the way to Perth; and is creating new and improved cycling infrastructure that will provide better active travel opportunities for work or leisure
“The project ultimately aims to help improve the health of users, create sustainable community links, and will develop tourism income when restrictions are lifted ” Dunkeld Co-op members buying Co-op branded products support all three ongoing community causes, including the River Tay Way, and can choose to specifically support one, by going online to www coop co uk/membership
Find out more about the River Tay Way’ Co-op cause by visiting https://membership coop co uk/causes/54370
All Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries and Perth Museum & Art Gallery are now closed until further notice due to the National Lockdown The Culture Perth and Kinross website offers a wide range of e-resources including e-books and e-audiobooks, as well as free access to digital magazines and newspapers via PressReader Library membership is free to all who live in the Perth and Kinross region You can join the library via www culturepk org uk or by phoning 01738 444949 Monday to Friday 9am-5pm For those who may be home-schooling, we’d urge you to check out our learning website www cpkplay co uk, which is full of fun things to watch, do, play and create Culture Perth and Kinross will continue to keep its visitors and users updated via the website, but you can also sign up to our email mailing list http://bit ly/cpkemail As a charity, Culture Perth and Kinross has seen its income greatly impacted because of the pandemic If you are able to support the work Culture Perth and Kinross do with communities and through learning and outreach, please consider donating via www culturepk org uk/donate
Great personal news yesterday as my Mum received her Covid vaccination 81 years young and part of the 99% of Scots over 80’s now vaccinated Mum reports no real after effects except a dull pain in her arm I think she firmly believes that cake is the antidote to any possible side effects, she has eaten copious amounts of the stuff and has had no side effects therefore her theory is proven
Seriously, after such a long hard year which has affected all age groups from young children to the elderly the hope given by the vaccination process seems like light at the end of the tunnel I would like to praise everyone from the scientists to the people putting the needles in arms for the way this rollout is being accelerated
This pandemic has also brought out the best in many, many people and I have sensed a greater feeling of Community and awareness of others within our Communities I hope that as we come out of this situation we continue to work as communities and not revert to the more insular beings we may have been before this
Unfortunately my Xmas tree is still up After joking about this on social media I was contacted by the local Press for comment and a photo so it will remain in situ until I can have the Xmas I wanted with my friends and family Have the fairy and a star job sharing over the period Started a go fund me page for the electricity and negotiated a good contract with the tinsel
As to Council business I know that many of you have been disappointed with the response to the recent weather conditions by the Council and Tayside Contracts and I will continue to advocate for a more flexible use of resources I E if there is no snow in Perth or Luncarty but much snow in Bankfoot or Dunkeld and Birnam
then mechanical and labour resources must be redeployed to areas of need I met with the Convenor of this service and senior Council Officers to push this view forward However although this discussion was in October and my suggested changes were agreed to be sensible, I see no change as yet
Since my last column the Tay Cities Deal has been signed off with the Scottish and Uk Govt’s committing £150M each to the deal, thankfully the UK Govt finally agreed to pay this over 10 years as the Scottish Govt and the Local Authorities wanted rather than the 15 years that the UK Govt proposed
The stone of Scone is coming home, well nearly home it is coming to Perth Hopefully it will be an international attraction and increase visitor footfall throughout PKC
Council business is very curtailed at the moment and the chance to represent your views at decision making levels is not easy Unfortunately the current Administration have decided that all Service Committees should now be cancelled
Zoom is fine but I and all of you must miss meeting people in person This virus has robbed us of choices Hopefully we can all stay well and and safe for a little longer until the vaccinations really make a difference
Looking forward to getting harangued in the street or the restaurant or the pub for something the Council hasn’t done, can’t believe I miss that
Best
An update from the King’s Seat Hillfort Archaeology
As we look ahead with hope to 2021, Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust (PKHT) are pleased to bring you an update on the exciting citizen science community archaeology project that’s been ongoing over the last 3 years on King’s Seat hillfort, a remarkable Scheduled Monument located in the grounds of Dunkeld House Hotel
The Project began in 2017 as a partnership between PKHT and Dunkeld and Birnam Historical Society, who (prompted by Dave MacDougall) contacted us to assist with developing a project to understand the site better, as it had lain buried beneath a dense carpet of rhododendrons for a long time With permission from the land owners and Historic Environment Scotland, who oversee the legal protection of the site, and with grants from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, The Gannochy Trust, and Scottish & Southern Electric’s Griffin and Calliacher Windfarm Community Fund, not to mention generous local giving via the Dunkeld CoOp, the project has been working to reveal the archaeological and unearth some of its secrets With archaeological contractors AOC Archaeology on the team the project saw archaeological survey and excavation across 3 years This allowed volunteers from the local community, as well as local primary and secondary school pupils and UHI university students, the opportunity to work alongside professional archaeologists to learn new skills, meet likeminded people and uncover the King’s Seat story In all, over 290 volunteers, pupils and students have contributed more than 800 days of their time to the project –incredible!
The Discoveries have surpassed everyone’s expectations and over the course of the excavation an amazing selection of artefacts and structural remains have been uncovered dating from around 600-800 AD – in the Pictish period A building with a large hearth
was unearthed within an enclosure on the summit with fragments of high-status pottery and glass drinking vessels imported from the continent, gaming pieces, animal bone and horn These paint a vivid picture of the Pictish elite gathering to feast, decorated in the latest high-status jewellery and sampling exotic goods from abroad The site was also a centre for specialist metal working and spindle whorls (used in textile production) indicate the site was an important centre for craft production The massive construction of the site, the evidence from the finds, and radio carbon dating confirm the King's Seat as an important centre of local power with influence over the trade and production of high-status goods during the Pictish period It is similar to other high-status, royal fort sites of early historic date in Scotland such as the early Dalriadic capital of Dunadd in Argyll, and the Pictish royal centre at Dundurn fort near St Fillan’s by Loch Earn Plans for 2021 are in place, despite Covid-19, and while the excavations are finished there’s still much to be done, and to look forward to Study of the finds and our records from the dig will result in a final report in the form of a book, to be published in 2023 Meanwhile, following our Picts in the Park living history fair in 2018, we hope to share the discoveries through interpretation boards and leaflets, for both adult and younger audiences, to encourage residents and visitors to explore King’s Seat’s incredible story We also hope to have an exhibition at the Dunkeld Community Archives so watch this space and follow progress on www pkht org uk/kings-seat
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 Fax: 0131 348 5946 e-mail: john.swinney.msp@scottish.parliament.uk
Contact the Advertising Manager adverts@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk 07967 117149
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
“There is a tendency for us to flee from the wild silence and the wild dark, to pack up our gods and hunker down behind city walls, to turn the gods into idols, to kowtow before them and approach their precincts only in the official robes of office And when we are in the Temples, then who will hear the voice crying in the wilderness?”
(Chet Raymo, the soul of the night)
The long dark metrological winter is preparing to let go its grip and allow the earth below our feet to warm, slowly, gently, and with purpose; that purpose is renewal The plants and the animals are ready to begin a cycle that we humans look out for with a smile, as it marks the promise of longer days and spring However I wonder if any of you are like myself and are a little sad that winter is leaving I enjoy the dark nights because the stars and the moon appear for longer in the darkest skies above my cottage I enjoy the cold because the logs can release their potential energy and warm me as I sit with a book, knees covered by a soft rug, by the fire I welcome the time when the power goes out for hours due to heavy snow fall and there is a quiet on the hill that is only experienced when the lights go out I am blessed to have a great appreciation for the dark and I don’t rush to flee from it
The dark can be a fearful place for some, especially for those who have always kept a light on and don’t often walk outside at night ‘The dark’ has become a metaphor for all that is not good in our lives, and we might speak and write of it as nasty and unwanted For me the dark of the night and the dark within my mind are places of inspiration and reflection Humans all experience times of darkness and sadness, we might think we are broken because of them But sometimes if we are not in actual danger, we can slow down, reflect upon what is making us sad or scared We might be able to feel a solid pathway beneath us that had been unseen We could notice tiny glimmers of light all around us that had gone unnoticed; or remember being warmed by a relationship that has been left untended leaving only the embers
Darkness does not have to be bad, like winter it can give our minds time to rest
That leads me nicely onto ‘Lent’; the 40 days before Holy Week Traditionally sacrificial and without cake!! Lent need not be about giving things up, or looking for the light as if the dark is going to bite us It can be used as a time of transition An emergence into life in contrast; appreciated and hopeful because we no longer fear darkness as an unending event We are an Easter people
Revd Lesley-Ann Craddock St Mary’s Episcopal Church
It is still not possible to meet in person for worship but hopefully with the roll-out of the vaccine, that day is not too far away
In the meantime, the Church of Scotland congregation is continuing with online worship (see the separate article ) If you are not confident about accessing YouTube, Fraser also produces a printed version of the service which you can get by contacting your district elder or get in touch with Fraser on 01350 727249 or by email at: RPenny@churchofscotland org uk
The house group continues to meet by zoom which works fairly well At times, we have participants from as far afield as America!
For a number of weeks now we have been discussing a recent book by Church of Scotland writer Steve Aisthorpe called ‘Rewilding the Church ’ Steve begins with the idea of rewilding in nature as a way or renewing the environment and uses that as an image of how the church might face its current challenges Even if you can’t join in the discussions it is well worth a read
The group usually meets fortnightly on a Tuesday at 7pm but the pattern of meeting is altered sometimes So, if you would like to join in, please contact either John and Mara Ferguson on 727585 or Fraser Penny on 727249 and we can add you to the email list to receive notifications of when we meet and how to access meetings
Many people were delighted to see the stable scene which was in front of the Duchess Anne over the Christmas period When you turned into the Cross it was such a lovely sight in the darkness and helped remind us of the light of the Christmas message in otherwise dark times
Alongside it, the Tree for Remembering attracted a lot of attention and many people put short messages, thoughts and prayers on the tabs to hang on the tree It was obviously something well worth doing, especially when so many people are struggling in isolation while dealing with loss
Many thanks to the Highland Main Line Community Rail Partnership who gave a grant which covered the electrical equipment needed and W & K Gerrie for providing the stable scene and Christmas Tree A huge thank you also, to everyone who helped in setting it up – with help ideas, advice and sheer muscle power!
The men’s breakfast has been meeting weekly by zoom on Wednesday mornings at 9am Obviously the bacon rolls are not so good but we can still put the world to rights!
If you would like to join in please contact Peter Mackie at Petermackie46@gmail com to add your name to the mailing list
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
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
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/
High Street Dunkeld
Our new shop is currently closed due to Covid restrictions but look forward to seeing our volunteers and customers as soon as restrictions allow.
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
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: Mr. George Kinloch 2 Woodville, Birnam, Dunkeld, PH8 0DN Tel 01350 728895
e-mail gbkinloch@btinternet com
Organist & Choir Leader: Mrs Hazel Murch 07768 468360
e-mail: hazel murch@gmail com
Parish Office: Mrs Ruth Brown
The Chanonry, 07834 490361 email: chanonrydunkeld@gmail com
www dunkeldcathedral org uk
St Mary’s Episcopal Church, Birnam
The Rector:
Reverend Lesley-Ann Craddock
Tel 01350 728091 / 07903 020509
email: lesley craddock@btinternet com
Treasurer:
Penny MacGregor and Charles Cox
Secretary:
Jane Anderson
Tel 01350 723203
email: janeanderson180@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:
Father Neil Gallagher
Tel: 01796 472174
e-mail: stbridesrcchurch@yahoo com
Due to current circumstances, unfortunately The Meeting Place is off until further notice
Rie-Achan Road, Pitlochry PH16 5AL
Also served by St Bride’s: St Columba’s, St Mary’s Road, Birnam, Dunkeld, PH8 0BJ
Priest: Father Neil Gallagher e-mail: stbrideschurch@yahoo com
Our Lady of Mercy’s, Home Street, Aberfeldy, PH15 2AL
Priest: Father Neil Gallagher
e-mail: stbrideschurch@yahoo com
Every Sunday 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’s, Aberfeldy, Sunday at 9 30 am
• St Bride’s, Pitlochry, Sunday at 11 30 am
Holy Days of Obligation: Mass Times
St Columba’s, Birnam at 9 30 am -
Our Lady of Mercy’s, Aberfeldy at 12 30 pm -
St Bride’s, Pitlochry at 6 00 pm
Weekday Masses:
Tuesdays, Our Lady of Mercy’s, Aberfeldy at 9 30 am Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, St Bride’s, Pitlochry at 9 30 am
Booking for Christmas Masses:
Our Christmas mass times are:
Christmas Eve: Christmas Day:
St Columba’s, Birnam – 5pm
Our Lady of Mercy, Aberfeldy – 9 30am
St Bride’s, Pitlochry – 7pm
St Bride’s, Pitlochry – 11am
As per Government guidelines numbers will still be restricted at Christmas so pre-booking is required for all masses Please phone the relevant contact for each church to book your place:
St Columba’s: AnneMarie – 07807 792628
St Bride’s: Fiona - 07706 430848
Our Lady of Mercy: Roseanne – 01887 829644
Duchess Anne 3 00pm – 5 00pm
We're missing all our Messy Church friends and families
Watch out for the next Dunkeld Messy Church on line, details through PPG email and our Messy Church group email.
DU NK EL D FI NE FOODS
3-5 Atholl Street, Dunkeld
St ocki ng your everyday essent ials and our awar d wi nning salmon
Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Saturday 9am to 12.30pm Sunday closed
Post office closed for lunch between 1pm and 2pm
Fruit, vegetables, groceries logs and kindling
Pre-Order Vegetable boxes and delivery
Takeaway: hot rolls, soup, pastries, scones and cakes
Hot Meal Wednesday: £9 95 per person includes main and dessert
Prepared vegetable dishes ready to heat
Pre-Order service: cakes, quiche Breads and afternoon teas
To place orders please call: 01350 727342
This space could be selling for you!
Contact the Advertising Manager adverts@dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk 07967 117149
Dunkeld Community Archive & Chapter House Museum
We are delighted to announce the launch of our new ‘chapter house virtual museum’ and ‘The Scottish Horse Virtual Museum’ They are both available to view via our web site: www historicdunkeld org uk
Both the archive and the museum remain closed due to covid restrictions, but we are still available to carry out research requests via email: archives@historicdunkeld org uk
Please also follow us on facebook
Say hello to Highland Storm Gin by the Pentone Family:
A tour de force in design and distilled craftsmanship, inspired by our beautiful Highland Perthshire surroundings at Dunkeld Distillery, imbued with local botanicals, and full of refreshing highland strength to see you through all storms.
Our exclusive first edition small batch artisan gin is available in limited numbers so pre-order to secure yours now. Ready for release this February.
Pentone: Highland Storm Gin. 70cl. 47.5% vol.
Scottish Handcrafted Spirits Pentone Family www.pentonefamily.com
23 August 1932 - 16 November 2020
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Ron Convery in November 2020 Ron moved to Dunkeld with his late wife Pat in 1992 they had a great fondness for the area and made many friends They became active members of the community and many people may remember Ron for his recent involvement with the Film Club and Mary's Meals Porridge Days Ron always made the most of life and was up for any adventure It is especially sad that his days came to an end during the time of Covid, which means that his family and friends cannot come together to celebrate that long life So, we have opened an online book of remembrance to share memories, photos and videos of Ron Please feel free open the link and look at the book, should you wish to share something please follow the instructions on how to register online: https://www theonlinebookcompany com/OnlineBooks/ RonConvery/Contributions/Messages/16
If you have any difficulties please email: blconvery@gmail com
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
Christmas
We were very grateful to receive a Griffin Micro Grant from the Dunkeld and Birnam Community Council and we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to them and to SSE for their generosity Every penny was spent on festive fun – we got a beautiful sparkly tree out the front which you may have seen Each resident got a delicious 3 course Christmas lunch
with wine from Riverside Catering Each resident also received a goody bag full of treats, handmade by people here Thanks so much for making this possible and spreading some cheer during a very difficult time
Following the break in at Laggan Wolf Trax and The Wee Bike Hub, Laggan and the theft of 12 Mountain Bikes Police Scotland are offering the following advice to Bike owners
Make sure you take a note of all your bike details, including the frame and serial number (usually found under the bottom bracket) This way, if your bike is stolen or stripped, you can pass details to the Police to help them find your bike or parts, and help catch those responsible
You can register your bike details free online at: www bikeregister com
Dunkeld & Birnam Santa Day Virtual AGM
Tuesday 16th February at 7pm
The Dunkeld & Birnam Events group invite local people to attend their Virtual AGM on Tuesday 16th February at 7pm If you would like to join the meeting then email dunkeldsantaday@gmail com to request the Zoom link We will be electing our committee on the evening and if you have something to contribute to the committee, please feel free to come forward
Please note that the Meeting Place nor the Duchess Anne lunches will not be functioning until further notice
Inventor Dehumidifier Model C2
Height 40cm Width 30cm Depth 25cm £25ono 07505 770039
In good condition with manual
Due to Covid19 I am seeking new employment Full time preferred
Enjoy working as part of a team, also happy to work alone Own transport
Adaptable and willing to do non admin duties C V and references available
Contact:- Evelyn: 0797 053 3632
Organised, super-flexible, proactive housekeeper/PA seeks live-in position in Perthshire
Experience with private-household/sporting estates/luxury hospitality, ready and available now for long-term position
Let me help while you get on with the important stuff! Tel: 07730 030 024
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
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
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
specialising in church, weddings, bridal bouquets – any occasion please ring/fax: 01350 724259 or email: sheilabruges@hotmail co uk
If you would like to contact the Community Council you can do so by emailing: dbcc correspomdence@gmail com or email the Chair on dbcc chair@gmail com
Or, if you get the opportunity please chat to any of the community council if you bump into them out and about
Meetings are held monthly at 7pm on the second Monday of the month
Dates of next meeting: 8th March 2021 Time: 7pm
Venue: Zoom
To read the minutes of previous meetings and to find the agenda for forthcoming meetings, see: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/communitynews/community-council
Andrew
Cave Community Councillor
The ongoing lockdown restrictions, winter weather and the Coop refurbishment have all contributed to a noticeably quieter start to the year in Dunkeld and Birnam, but helped along by ‘zoom’, work has nevertheless been progressing on a number of the issues covered in the Road Safety Subgroup update in the November edition of the Bridge
Several members of the Community Council, Councillor Anne Jarvis and Jess Pepper (Chair of Royal School of Dunkeld PPG) recently had an encouraging meeting with representatives from Perth
and Kinross Council to discuss how we can move forward with a number of the priorities identified in our previous community consultation meetings
We discussed five initial areas of focus: Unauthorised parking and traffic enforcement; pedestrian safety on the Telford Bridge; the extension of the 20mph zone to a greater area of Dunkeld and Birnam; potential traffic calming and pedestrian safety modifications at the junction of the Cross and Atholl, Brae and Bridge Street; and traffic reduction and safety enhancement options around the Royal School of Dunkeld
Whilst the PKC officers were understandably clear that the works priorities in the Perth and Kinross Council area continue to be primarily related to COVID 19 safety modifications, there was mutual enthusiasm for initiating early discussions about the kind of projects that might be possible later this year There was also recognition that although there are clearly year-round traffic and safety issues relating to the Dunkeld and Birnam Community Council area, the challenge of managing the seasonal increase in visitors was becoming more acute
With respect to parking enforcement, the PKC team relayed that whilst resources are currently thinly stretched across Perth & Kinross, they would be happy to arrange a site visit to Dunkeld & Birnam to discuss and evaluate some of the perennial unauthorised parking flashpoints In addition to regular enforcement checks and ongoing efforts by the community to encourage responsible parking, there may be other physical changes (such as bollards or marking changes) in some areas that might be appropriate to help with parking and safety issues It was also agreed that potential options for improved safety at the junction of the Cross area and Atholl Street and Brae Street would also be discussed at the follow up site meeting
With respect to the Telford Bridge, there was again broad support for undertaking a structured feasibility study to consider a range of measures to improve
safety As part of this study, consideration would be given using software modelling tools to the range of possible knock on effects (such as standing traffic and noise) from potential changes such as the addition of traffic lights in conjunction with pavement widening Clearly given both the practical and cultural importance of the Bridge to the community, extensive further consultation would be undertaken on any possible changes before any solution would be implemented by PKC As part of the review of the bridge safety, it was also agreed that consideration would also be given to several relevant footpaths, pavements and cycleways in the locality of the crossing area There was also support from all sides to push ahead with a PKC-led review of an extension of the 20mph zone to more of the built up area in Dunkeld and Birnam such as the Boat Road and Brae Street, with the accompanying addition of additional 40mph buffer zones to reduce the speed of incoming traffic progressively There is now more extensive data from Perth & Kinross and other Council areas relating to the effectiveness of 20mph restrictions in different settings, and this would be taken into account in the feasibility study
Finally, it was further agreed that a discussion would be initiated by PKC involving relevant stakeholders regarding traffic reduction and safety issues in the Royal School of Dunkeld area
As we have been careful to emphasise in previous updates, the above issues will take time to work through and progress can at times feel glacial, but we are very pleased to be making some headway and were greatly encouraged by the willingness of the Perth and Kinross Council team to more actively evaluate a number of the safety considerations that are of particular interest to our community
Andrew Cave February 2021
Dunkeld House Hotel has raised over £50,000 to help conserve Perthshire’s remarkable trees
With over 200,000 acres of stunning woodlands, which include more champion trees than anywhere else in the UK, Perthshire is Big Tree County
Beyond its generous financial support, Dunkeld House Hotel is an important Perthshire Big Tree Country site
Its magnificent grounds are home to the Dunkeld House Tree Trail, which features dozens of unique and impressive heritage trees and over 30 stunning examples of other internationally threatened trees
In recent years, the hotel has raised £50,000 towards Perthshire Big Tree Country from a £1 optional donation per overnight stay from its guests since it joined the Supporting Perthshire Big Tree Country Scheme in 2012
The scheme – administered by Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust (PKCT), who manage Perthshire Big Tree County – allows hotels, B&Bs and businesses of all sizes across Perthshire to broaden their green credentials and help conserve Perthshire’s tree heritage and improve access to it for everyone to enjoy now and in the future
To learn more about Perthshire Big Tree Country, visit www perthshirebigtreecountry co uk or visit the online interactive map to watch the seasons change across the area http://map pkct org/ Hotels, B&Bs and businesses wishing to also help support Perthshire Big Tree Country can get in touch with Peter at PKCT: peter quinn@pkct org
Linking Asheville,
"On the birthday of Robert Burns, our friends at Asheville Sister Cities in North Carolina, USA staged a socially distanced Burns Supper which we co-hosted in Dunkeld and Birnam via Zoom The transatlantic event featured all the traditional toasts and included lots of participation from our extended community: The Blairgowrie and Rattray District Pipe Band launched the supper with footage of their parade across Dunkeld Bridge to the Birnam Games; Christine Kydd gave the Address to the Haggis and sang Burns songs; Pete Clark played Niel Gow fiddle tunes associated with Burns; Thomas Steuart Fothringham performed piano tunes in Murthly Castle; Dave MacDougall delivered The Immortal Memory; and Fiona Ritchie recited poems by Burns and Perth's own William Soutar Rev Fraser Penny offered the Selkirk Grace and Alasdair Wylie proposed toasts, while our friends in Asheville charged their glasses with Aberfeldy Single Malt Whisky, specially imported for the occasion In Asheville, the Brig o' Doon Quartet performed a traditional American folk song and the Burns Supper concluded with a recording by Just Singin' of Auld Lang Syne, set to a photo montage of Asheville visitors enjoying exploring our community through the years
In 2019 and 2020, Burns Suppers held by Asheville Sister Cities have been very well attended, raising funds for the National Trust for Scotland's Burns Cottage restoration appeal and for the Niel Gow Memorial Fund This year, the online-only event was held as a fundraiser for Birnam Arts Thank you to everyone who hosted this special occasion, to Asheville's Highland Brewing Company, to everyone who attended, and all those who contributed to the fundraiser We are very grateful for this support from friends in our twin community across the sea and look forward to welcoming everyone back when it's safe to travel once again "
Fiona Ritchie, Dunkeld and Birnam
A good time was had by all, albeit virtually thanks to Fiona Ritchie and Doug Orr the pre-recorded entertainment was fantastic and the camaraderie was as Rabbie Burns would have wanted it especially the ending with Auld Lang Syne our next get together is planned for Tartan Day, April 6th, when, hopefully, we can gather in groups across the sea to tak' a right gude-willie waught for auld lang syne Cary Findlay, Asheville
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 Highfi eld, Brae Street, Dunkeld, PH8 0BA Many thanks
Please contact the editor with amendments/additions Phone 01350+
Organsiations - General
Dunkeld & Birnam in Bloom 01350 727288 Linda Speirs
Dunkeld Visitor Centre 01350 727688
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 727324 Brenda Roddy
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
Learning
Community Learning Staff
727669 Evelyn Menzies / Christine Miller / Jinty Smart
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 Anthea Deane 01250884740 adeane@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
Fiddle Tree www thefiddletree co uk
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 next 2013) 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 Girl Guides
727456 Trix Stephen Brownies 727054 Gail Vaux
Rainbows
Youth Café
727306/ 727332 Chris/Rachael
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
Senior Citizens
Friends of Rivendell
Other Village Publications
The Bridge - Editiorial
01382 237158
Heather Campbell
727311 Ronalda Pattullo
728885 Fiona Ritchie
the-bridge@hillrobertson co uk
The Bridge - Advertising 728697 John Gray
The Bridge - Items for Sale the-bridge@hillrobertson co uk
Order of Service - Church of Scotland 07834 490361 Ruth Brown chanonrydunkeld@gmail com
Hall Bookings
Duchess Anne 07834 490361 chanonrydunkeld@gmail com Ruth Brown
Chanonry 07834 490361 chanonrydunkeld@gmail com Ruth Brown
Birnam Institute 727674
Dalguise Village Hall 07746 392268
Amulree Village Hall www amulreehall org uk Caputh Hall caputhhall@gmail com 01738 710 848
Health Community & Services
Infinityblu Dental Care, Pitlochry 01796 470001
Infinityblu Dental Care, Dunkeld 01350 729198
Dentist
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
Tourist Information 727688
Vets 727999 Ferns Veterinary Practice
Police (Tayside Non-Emergency) 101
February 2021
16
Dunkeld & Birnam Santa Day Virtual AGM 7pm
25 Birnam to Ballinluig A9 Community Group 7:30pm via Zoom Zoom link will be published on facebook and emailed to our mailing shortly beforehand dunkeldA9workinggroup@gmail com 01350 727361
March 2021
8 Community Council meeting 7pm Zoom
25 Birnam to Ballinluig A9 Community Group 7:30pm via Zoom Zoom link will be published on facebook and emailed to our mailing shortly beforehand
dunkeldA9workinggroup@gmail com 01350 727361
For dates further ahead see: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk
The term “Local Hero” has been used a lot in the last year, whenever I hear this title, I think of one particular person I speak on behalf of a lot of Dunkeld, Birnam and the wider communities, that could not have got through this strenuous time without the Tea Room and Post office being open Kelly Annetts has gone above and beyond to make sure that not only can people get their coffee and food but can get everyday items too As soon as Kelly heard we were going into lockdown she started to think about the communities needs and how she could make life just a little bit easier for everyone Fruit and vegetables were available for customers, a telephone order system was put in place, you could either, pick it up or she would deliver it Hot meal Wednesday then came about, as Kelly already supplies a few of the more vulnerable residents she then extended this to anyone who wanted it This meant the customers that were shielding had a day off cooking and a hearty meal to look forward too Kelly was doing this all single handed, whilst keeping the post office open, having two children and animals to care for Not to mention her own Grandmother that was shielding As the first lockdown eased The Chattan Tea Room opened again for sit down food The staff came back, and some normality resumed Having been working 6 days a week Kelly was able to get a few well-earned hours to herself This however didn’t last long as come December she supplied over 40 Christmas Dinners! Kelly has made the Tea Room and Post office accessible for the whole community, so many people have commented on how it’s the only pace they visit and the only people they may see for weeks on end This second lockdown has been very testing for everyone but once again Kelly has stepped up and extended her stock, made takeaways an option and kept the community at the forefront of her business Anne, Kelly’s late Mum, would be so proud of her, The Chattan Tea Room and Post office always was a hive of activity and a real hub of the community and this legacy remains thanks to Kelly’s hard work and commitment Heather Daly
Ed: Many thanks to Heather for writing into The Bridge about her ‘local hero ’ I’m sure we all share her view and send our heartfelt thanks to Kelly for all she has done for our community during lockdown
If you want to write an article for The Bridge about your local hero, then please do!
Telephone & Fax: 01796 472494 Mobile: 07800 577259
Blanche A Golder MARH
Please contact 07715382238 to book an online appointment
ATHOLL STREET 01350 727556
Proprietor: Alasdair Wylie
While we're closed if there's anything you need please contact Alasdair on 01350 727361 or 07927 175121 Email: kettlesdunkeld@yahoo co uk
Plumbers and Heating Engineers
Unit 3/4, Birnam Industrial Estate, Station Road, Birnam, Dunkeld PH8 0DS
Tel No: 01350 727258 • Mobile: 07557 366575
Email: dunkeldplumbers@mail com
Michael Robertson Plasterer Plaster & Cement work
All types of Cornice work and Ceramic Tiling
20 Stell Park, Birnam PH8 0QA 01350 727694 • 07742 091269
miketheplasterer@hotmail co uk
Mobile: 07836 615626
Email: diggercox@btopenworld com
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
Interior / Exterior Work
Paper Hanging • Taping
Phone Sandy Carr
Bankfoot 01738 787547
Mobile: 07818 254520
email: sandytcarr@yahoo.co.uk
Contact the Advertising Manager adverts@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk 07967 117149
DUNKELD BUILDERS LTD
New Builds, Extensions, Renovations and Restorations, Stonework, Drainage, Groundworks and jobbing
Contact: 01350 727320
Kevin: 07876 744936
www dunkeldbuilders co uk
Heated Kennels
Day & Long Term Stays
Elizabeth & Keith Lumsden 01350 728849
E-mail: bizzabooks@gmail.com
07967 117149
Greg Robb Glazing
Glass and Glazing Specialists
4, Manson Road, Perth Tel/Fax: 01738 441212
Email: louiserobb205@btinternet com
50 years’ experience in all types of glass and mirror work
Supply/Install/Replace misted double glazed units, PVCU windows and doors Free estimates, prompt reliable service.
