


In the winter the sun doesn’t come over Birnam hill, just when you most need it; but the people still swim in the frozen river and trudge through the snow
While cracked frost grows up windows, a baby is born and an old man stares at his last breath
A lover is still here
A lover is gone
And the people wait for signs of change, wait for the first glimpse of sun
For then they stand tallerraise their head, raise their face, and Birnam Hill tips a little, watching the people walk to the bridge, over the stone arches that joins villages, on the way to or on the way back from Dunkeld
When snowdrops and bluebells vanish, when the daffodils shrink, the sun makes the hill bend further, and the people climb up and over its back, and the people climb down to go into the woods, passing the pretender to stand at the tree of Macbeth - pitched up with its massive crutch, once a living part of itself, now lost, perhaps, to Dunsinane
And the people look back to history, hoping Shakespeare’s feet touched this ground, thinking of the witches chanting in and around the mighty trunk and doing what witches do – women all of them
And the people listen, hesitate, and listen again to the leaves,
for warning signs that they are getting ready to let go
The hill watches on, as it lifts up once more, and the light pushes through when it can
But the people see the ice, the rain and, oh, they see graupel, and they hear birdsong move between flakes of snow as if dancing on its way home
And the people wonder when they’ll see light again, and if it’s all worth it, and today, perhaps today is a beautiful day, and aye, today, perhaps today is not so good, full of grey melancholic mist hanging in the air
More bills come, as they must
A job is lost, a job is gained, and all the while they speak into laptops
Can you hear me?
Can you hear me?
A heart is open
A heart is broken
While the people tell themselves once again, that the sun will rise, the sun will rise over Birnam Hill
Jane is Associate Artist (Writer) at Perth theatre (in partnership with Mindspace) She is also part of an Autumn Voices project which focuses on the stories of older people
The poem ‘Birnam Hill’ was work was originally published in the ‘Renewal’ issue of PENning magazine
The Bridge
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Those of you who have read this column over the years will know that I find our deep, dark winters a long and weighty feat of endurance I do my best to battle through with sunlamps, vitamin D infusions, lunchtime walks and detoxing from the over-indulgence of the Christmas feast – but nevertheless January, for me, is a plod I rejoice with every passing day that holds the light a little longer and get ridiculously excited on seeing the first snowdrops – a sure sign that Spring is on the way So many thanks so Jane Archer for sharing her related thoughts in the poem ‘Birnam Hill’ on the front cover
Also, thanks to our very own ‘scarlet pimpernel’ poet ‘Sonsie MacSmeddum’ for their thoughts on the traffic situation in Dunkeld (p4 ) If you share’s Sonsie’s concerns then why not join the PH8 group which is looking at possible ways for managing traffic and parking in the village (p21) I have to say I was quite taken by a picture in the book by P J G Ransom ‘Old Dunkeld and Birnam’ which shows The Cross in the 1940’s as a lovely open space without cars and the parking island The only time we see it like this now is for Santa Day Let’s hope that ’22 sees a return of that lovely event, with Santa and his reindeer leading us to a community gathering in The Cross If you fancy yourself as a bit of an Elf spreading Christmas cheer, then please join the Santa Day planning group which is meeting for the first time this year on February 16th (p7)
While we are dreaming of better things, I’d like to add my support to David MacDougall’s campaign to get the path from Inver to the Hermitage Falls re-opened It’s great to see another letter in response to this on page 18 It’s such a lovely walk up from Inver, through the woods to the Falls and then either onwards up Strathbraan or on a circular loop back to the village I really hope that a cost-
effective solution can be found to retain the bank which is forcing the path’s closure – maybe we could offer a volunteer work party? I’m not sure I’d be much use in building retaining walls, but I’ll happily make the tea and offer words of encouragement
I’m sure I speak for many of us in praise of our Doctors Surgery and the excellent service they provide us Please offer them further support by taking time to look at the new ‘Care Navigation Pathway’ on p6 as the way we access support on many of our health issues is changing with our first point of contact usually being with another member of the team rather than our GP
Finally, a hurrah to our Friends in Asheville for getting Dunkeld ‘on the map’ (front cover picture and p20) It’s lovely to see ourselves signposted across the miles I hope we can reciprocate the honour they have given us before too long
Wishing you all the very best for ’22 – here’s to the light returning and signs of Spring popping up everywhere very soon
Sally Robertson
Working constructively to get the best community outcomes from the A9 dualling proposals
The next A9 Community Group meeting will be on Thursday 24th February 2022 at Birnam Arts and by Zoom, at 7 30pm unless otherwise notified All welcome!
We hope that you’ve all had an enjoyable Christmas/Midwinter festivity and a good start to 2022, in these still uncertain times Apologies for any inconvenience because of the very late call-off of the scheduled end November CG meeting
Update from Transport Scotland on Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing
Further to our report in the Dec/Jan Bridge, we pressed TS again for a more informative update and were told that there would be nothing to say before the new year This remains frustrating to say the least!
Dunkeld Junction upgrade works
The improvements made at the junction late last year are a step in the right direction but still leave unaddressed issues Credit to Pam Green and the Junctions Action Group for getting action by TS It is to be hoped that there is more to come including improvements at the Birnam and Dalguise junctions JAG will give an update in the next Bridge
New consultation on “Route Map” to reduce car use by 20%
Not unrelated to roads planning, the Scottish Government and COSLA have recently launched this consultation https://www transport gov scot/consultation/consultation-on-the-20-reduction-in-car-km-route-map/
Apart from individuals who’d like to respond, the A9 Community Group will provide a forum for discussion of this and any related government and/or local authority initiatives
As always you can contact us at email: dunkeldA9workinggroup@gmail com, and to have your details added (or removed from) our mailing list; Also at Facebook page: Birnam to Ballinluig A9 Community Group
Please Like and Share it
Or just phone me!
Alasdair Wylie, Coordinator 01350 727361
Our page on "The Bridge" website, including key documents for download is: http://www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/community-council/a9-dualling
The latest Information from Transport Scotland is at: https://www transport gov scot/projects/a9-dualling-perth-to-inverness/a9-pass-of-birnam-to-tay-crossing/ https://www transport gov scot/projects/a9-dualling-perth-to-inverness/a9-tay-crossing-to-ballinluig/project-details/
BIRNAM ARTS’ OPENING TIMES
BOX OFFICE | 10am - 4pm | Mon to Fri
GIFT SHOP AND BEATRIX POTTER |
10 30am - 3 30pm | Wed to Sun
GALLERY AND CAFÉ | 10AM - 4PM | Wed to Sun
As winter rolls along, why don’t you make a plan to join us for one of our great events and activities in the shortest month of the year Or come in to enjoy the latest exhibition in the Gallery, pause for a coffee or lunch, visit the Gift Shop or learn something new about Beatrix Potter –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
PERFORMANCES
SCOTTISH OPERA HIGHLIGHTS –
Greatest hits & lesser-known gems
THU 10 FEB | 7 30pm
Roll up, roll up for an evening of memorable melodies, as we celebrate the grit and glamour of old-fashioned vaudeville
DOUG ALLANNature, Camera, Action
SAT 12 MAR | 7 30pm
Join us for an evening of tales with one of the world's best-known and respected photographers CUA
FRI 8 APR | 7.30pm
This Irish trio bring together passion and ability to deliver a show of cutting-edge folk Let the music grab you by the scruff of your neck, for a good evening
JACK DOCHERTY – NOTHING BUT
FRI 15 APR | 7 30pm
A tender, playful, and darkly comic tale that is a love letter to Edinburgh, the Fringe, and summer rain Jack grapples with lost youth, infatuation, fatherhood, sex, secrets, and truth
YES! YES! UCS!
TUE 26 APR | 7.30pm
A celebration of community solidarity, and collective resistance inspired and led by Upper Clyde Shipbuilder's shop, and the vital support that made the 'Work In' such a massive success –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Tickets through birnamarts com
If any ticketed workshops sell out, we’ll take a waiting list for future sessions with those instructors Please get in contact and let us know your interest
CARDIOFUNK with Liz & Vicki
SAT 29 Jan, 5 & 12 Feb | 10.30am – 11.30pm
Join Pilates instructor Liz and her life-long dance and fitness friend Vicki for this new FUNdraiser to help our heartbeats and health while raising some funds for Birnam Arts
INTRODUCTION TO POTTERY
SAT 19 FEB | 9 - 10am, 10 30am - 11 30am, 12 - 1pm
Join Ellen for one of three one-hour sessions and try your hand at throwing a pot
There are limited spaces – we’ll create a waiting list (if it sells out) and hope to offer more sessions with Ellen in the near future
VEGETAL LIGHT: a workshop in embodied photography
SAT 5 MAR | 10am - 3pm
What happens if we photograph with our eyes closed and other senses opened?
Artist Rowan Lear returns to Birnam Arts to lead a playful and experimental workshop in embodied photography Participants will explore with cameras the woodland around Birnam and Dunkeld, taking inspiration from the multi-sensory world of plants, before steeping and making plant-based photographic developer and processing their films
Automatic cameras and one roll of black and white film will be supplied The day will include a lunch break Sliding Scale @ £10 (1 ticket) / £20 (1 ticket) / £30 (2 tickets) [Subsidised by Creative Scotland]
Max: 6 participants
Classes
As well as these special events, our ballet classes, tai chi, yoga, Heels Over Head dance, Pilates and Zumba sessions will continue through February With more classes added regularly, you’ll find the latest information about what’s on, times and costs on our website: birnamarts com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
:
CELEBRATING A LIFE –
Cameron Murray
22 JAN - 6 FEB | 10am - 4pm
A solo exhibition celebrating the life and work of the late Cameron Murray (1946 – 2019), reflecting on how his works in oil, watercolour, acrylic and pastel were inspired by the landscape, wildlife, changing weather and seasons around him
11 - 27 FEB | 10am - 4pm
A selection of works by artists and long-time friends, Ian Scott & Peter Kirley, their work brings together paintings in watercolour and acrylic, focusing on the locales near their homes in Crieff and Stormontfield
WEIGHTS OF RESPONSIBILITY EXHIBITION & ARTIST TALK MARCH 2022 | 10am - 4pm
A celebratory installation of sculptural works with Susie Johnston, Jenny Pope and Louise Ritchie exploring a playful subversion of objects, skin and expectations of contemporary womanhood
Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland of featuring natural, Scottish made soaps and toiletries; Harris Tweed handbags and accessories; a range of men’s heritage and classic accessories and of course a range of traditional and much-loved toys for loved ones of all ages
BEATRIX POTTER
If you’re looking for the perfect retreat inside on these colder, winter days, come escape into the imagination of Beatrix Potter Learn about her historical ties to the area, as well as getting to know the much loved and celebrated characters from Beatrix’s tales And for the little ones, join us for some fun with activity boxes, a festive story corner - and if the weather ’s behaving better than the Two Bad Mice, there is a garden of sculptures to explore too
Our winter hours are Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm, with the Gift Shop and Beatrix Potter open 10:30am to 3:30pm The Box Office is open 10am to 5pm Monday to Friday
We look forward to welcoming you to Birnam Arts For more information and tickets are available through our website – www birnamarts com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
We will be starting our choir rehearsals again next year on January 12th at 7 45 in the Tryst
For our concert in April we are hoping to perform Schubert's Mass in G, which is a lovely piece of music
Any new members who would like to join us, will be very welcome Please contact our chairman a barclay@btinternet com
Ten days before Christmas I found myself in Glen Nevis, on a wet and cold morning with two of my horses on the set of a western movie! Only three days prior, a production manager had contacted me and asked if I had any western looking horses that could be used in a western movie being filmed in the Scottish Highlands I have a small equestrian business near Dunkeld where I promote barefoot (the horse, not the rider!) and bitless (the bit of metal that goes in a horse’s mouth which causes discomfort) and positive reinforcement training (no whips, spurs or other such means of enforcement) I have four horses of my own, 3 of which are rescues, the other is well a mischievous thief who gets himself into all sorts of trouble! Of these four, one is a skewbald (brown and white) and another an appaloosa (spotty), both of which I ride in western attire, so after sending pictures of them to the production manager, I found myself in Glen Nevis on a rather dreich morning! I wasn’t really sure what to expect Afterall, who shoots a western movie in Scotland in winter? The crew however soon put me at ease and the director and actors were so friendly that it ended up being a really interesting and enjoyable day Connie, the skewbald stars in three sets and Jess, the appaloosa in five It was a long day and we filmed in two different locations Despite it being a dreich day, the scenery was still stunning and the cameraman and director worked hard to make the best of the weather I was overjoyed at how the horses reacted to their new found fame Whilst Connie is a well-travelled and “bomb proof” horse who has been with me for over five years, Jess had only been with me six months and I had only recently started riding her after a few months of rehabilitation There were big silver booms, jibs, big foam microphones and half the crew didn’t have proper waterproofs, instead wearing the cheap ponchos that flap about like crazy in the wind! But the horses took it all in their strides and really did me proud One scene had Jess’s nose literally centimetres away from the big fluffy sound mic The first two takes, she stood perfectly still on command On the third take however she just couldn’t help herself by having a little nibble of it, much to the laughter of the crew! I think the horses were the most photographed horses in the world that day as every crew member wanted their picture taken with them!
The movie is called Land of the Free and comes out in the spring Connie and Jess are doing signed hoofprints in return for carrots!
Birnam Book Festival is back for 2022! The event will be taking place at Birnam Arts 20th-22nd May 2022 and we’re on the look out for volunteers We’re seeking enthusiastic people to help us in the lead up to the festival and on the weekend itself
Birnam Book Festival is run by volunteers, for the benefit of the community and book lovers everywhere A small committee provide time throughout the year on a voluntary basis, but we still need a bit of help to plan and run the festival
A variety of roles are available to support the organisation and planning of the festival, and on the weekend itself Any time commitment you can offer will be welcomed and we have roles to suit a wide range of skills In return, we will provide you with a full induction to the festival as we define your role, and you will have access to festival events while volunteering
We’re looking for help with:
• Sponsorship and fundraising
• Promotion and communications
• Distribution of posters and brochures
• Concierges to support authors
Photography and archiving materials
• Event stewards
We will also welcome anyone who might be interested in joining us on the committee on an ongoing basis to help shape the future of the festival
You can find more details of the roles available at: www birnambookfestival co uk/volunteerpolicy
If you're looking for a new opportunity to kickstart 2022, and would like to volunteer with us, please email your details to contact@birnambookfestival co uk
All Films shown at Birnam Arts – 7:30 pm
Sunday 13th February 2022
The Good Liar 2019 1:49m 15
Consummate con man Roy Courtnay has set his sights on his latest mark: the recently widowed Betty McLeish, worth millions But this time, what should have been a simple swindle escalates into a cat-and-mouse game with the ultimate stakes
Sunday 27th February 2022
Dogman 2018 1:43m 15
A timid dog groomer living in a poor suburb sells cocaine on the side and stays out of trouble, while trying to deal with his unstable, violent acquaintance who is a menace to the whole neighborhood
You see them now where’er you go, Frae Station Road to Bridge Street, Parked vehicles: cars an' trucks an' vans, Enough to make a saint weep
They’re packed in tight around The Cross: A campervan, Range Rover
Poor Atholl Street is just a mess, Car parks are spilling over
When the Co-op delivery comes, We pray there’ll be no busses, They all get stuck, you try to cross, The air turns blue wi’ curses
The bridge! The bridge! What’s to be done? For Telford’s braw creation, It wasnae built tae carry, Every vehicle in the nation!
We need solutions, need them soon, To keep us safe frae harm, Wing mirrors clip oor lugs and worse, It’s time to sound the alarm!
Our pretendy plastic traffic cop, Does more to solve the problem, Than anyone at PKC, Scot Gov, or Transport Scotland
Let’s start a shuttle service, That's electrical and eco, Tae tour the toon, so we can boast: “Here, cars make way for people!”
Make parking in the car parks free, An on-street charge more fair, Prohibit parking by The Cross, For those that dinnae live there Pedestrians please don't give up, It’s time to find our voices, To reclaim all our bonnie streets, Make better, safer choices ~ by Sonsie MacSmeddum
(More rumgumption frae Sonsie can be found in the May 2021 edition of the Bridge )
1: To transform the lives of people in the villages and surrounding areas through sport and leisure
2: To promote the various sports and leisure activities in the Dunkeld & Birnam area
3: To support the building and maintenance of sports facilities including a sports hall
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
All sports and leisure clubs are invited to join 'The Sports Hub ' Membership is free
Please send details of your club's activities and events to editor@dunkeldandbirnmamnews co uk for inclusion in the hub page of 'The Bridge ' For more details see: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/sport ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Annual “Robbie” presentation to Royal School of
and Nicola Williams, Head Teacher, for sporting equipment for the school
The 2021 recipient of the good citizenship cup also in Robbie’s memory, was Ruby Cook Congratulations Ruby! –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––Hub Covered
We are very pleased to announce that we have received planning permission from Perth and Kinross Council for the covered MUGA This approval allows us to get on with the next stages of the project We will work with our local
undertake detailed design on the lighting
We h a v e r e c
additional elements of the project we are considering, including an improved ‘carpet’ surface and the re-siting of the tennis practice court and basketball h o o p I n p a
entry system As we form the Development Committee to manage the build we are looking for support on these issues so please get in contact if are able to help (dbsportsleisurehub@gmail com)!
If this all goes acceding to plan, we should still be on track for the construction work to start late Spring!
Dunkeld and Birnam District Leisure Group (the Sports Hall project)
Agreement with D and B Sports and Leisure Hub
A
towards towards the Hub’s Covered MUGA project A significant proportion of t
accident in 2005, by Kate Stansfield (Robbie's mum) and many friends The two groups will work together to commemorate Robbie as part of the MUGA project
The basis for this grant is a Memorandum of Understanding between the two groups which says that:
1 The Leisure Group (LG) supports the Hub’s proposal for the covered MUGA in the context of the Masterplan The Hub and LG agree that the first stage o
associated car park and electrical infrastructure upgrade
2 The Hub MUGA Development Committee will undertake the covered MUGA p r o j e c t T h e D
interested groups including the LG The committee will consider and explore options for the flooring, weather proofing and possibly enlarging the building with the aim of the facility being suitable for as wide a range of activities as practical
3 The Hub are committed to realising the other elements of the Masterplan, including an indoor sports hall/facility and upgrading of the existing club house facilities The Hub will form a committee to consider planning of these elements of the Masterplan
4 The LG shall make funds available to the Hub for the possibly enhanced covered MUGA, including the related car parking and electrical upgrade which are required for all elements of the Masterplan
5 T h e L G
including community needs assessment –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Historical Society
Last year we only managed one meeting which was most enjoyable and well attended, featuring Ajay Close talking about Mayhem in Long Skirts , the Suffragettes in Perthshire
After this hiatus, this is advance notice of our next two meetings which will take place at Birnam Arts in accordnce with whtever Covid regualtions and guidance are in place
Monday 21st February at 7:45 pm, there will be a brief AGM followed by Ruth Brown from the Dunkeld Community Archive talking about all the changes taking place there, plus what happens when you follow a particular series of events and how you can get involved
Monday 21st March at 7:45 pm - Ian Shields talking on the Battle of Dunkeld " The Battle of Dunkeld, Uniforms and Weapons" Ian and his partner will be dressed in clothing of the period Ian is the well known expert about the battle and I am sure we will all learn something new about the battle
February sees the group continuing its work with Craigvinean surgery to communicate the changing nature of Primary Healthcare services and how they are delivered across the PH8 area Contact has now also been established with PKC to establish more clearly when Council minibuses may become available for community use once more
On a broader ‘Care’ front, it’s clear that the Community Action Planning process has revealed a concern about the adequacy of local care provision We look forward to working with others on how we as a community can promote caring as a career locally and provide support to those who choose to take it up Anyone wishing to get involved in this theme can contact either the PH8 Community Matters Facebook page or the Gien a Gaund e mail address beneath
Work is also underway to increase the number of benches in key places around Birnam and Dunkeld Less emphasis perhaps on the view from the bench, more on its importance in breaking up lengthy walking distances from village end to key services The proposal has been considered by the Community Council and we are most grateful for the Microgrant of £500 which they have awarded This is a very welcome start to our fundraising and we are now deleloping a strategy for
securing further sources of funding, both for initial purchase and for future maintenance of benches We will be submitting grant applications aswell as providing opportunities for individuals and organisations to contribute, so that together we can improve overall access to amenities in our village
If you have any ideas or want to get in touch regarding any of the above, please contact us on: gien a haund@yahoo com
Dunkeld Community Archive
We have lots of exciting things planned for 2022:Friday 11th & Saturday 12th March 2022
(10am to 3pm daily) – A celebration of our Kickstarters’ achievements including :Mini Art Exhibition showcasing Iman’s amazing artwork of Dunkeld landmarks Prints and cards will be available to purchase A silent auction will be held for Iman’s original paintings to raise funds for the museum & archive
The very first public showing of Steven’s cartoon of Dundonnachie and the Dunkeld Bridge Toll Riots of 1868
A film of Michael’s Street Theatre production of the Bridge Toll Riots
Friday 18th to Sunday 20th March 2022
(10am to 3pm daily) – Niel Gow Festival Exhibition in
the Community Archive
Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd May 2022
(10 am to 3pm daily) – Dunkeld & Birnam Book Festival exhibition on ‘The Foresters Scribe’ by Ursula Kelly Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th June 2022 – Living History Weekend & Queens Platinum Jubilee Celebrations
See below for details so far
Saturday 27th August – Birnam Highland Games Exhibition stand displaying photographs, posters etc from the games past (TBC)
Both our young Kickstarters’ have been working hard on their projects and we will showcase their work on 11th and 12th March We were extremely proud to be chosen to represent Museum Galleries Scotland for the Governments Cabinet Office Kickstart promotional video on their social media Follow the link: https://twitter com/UKGovScotland/status/14736853632 43819010
QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE -
We have a huge event planned for the 4th and 5th June 2022 to celebrate the Queens Platinum Jubilee Saturday 4th will see a Mini Regimental Tattoo celebrating the link between the Scottish Horse and Dunkeld Sunday’s event will see many of Dunkeld’s stories told in various venues around Dunkeld and Birnam, e g The Birnam Institute Players will perform a play about Beatrix Potter in Birnam Arts, Pete Clark and Jamie Jauncey will tell the story of Niel Gow with music in the Birnam Hotel, re-enactors will tell the stories of Danes attacking Dunkeld, the Battle of Dunkeld and the Boer, 1st and 2nd World Wars, the Scottish Heritage Entertainment Company will perform the street theatre production of Dundonnachie & the Bridge Toll Riots, and much, much, more
We have amazing cinefilm footage in the archive, courtesy of the ‘Young’ family, of the Queen’s Coronation celebrations in Dunkeld in 1953 Let’s create a weekend which equals that celebration! If anyone would like to get involved, or have an idea they would like to add to the weekend of events, please get in touch
THE SCOTTISH HORSE ONLINE -
Our Regimental collection is available to search online – theogilbymuster com – Transcription work will take a long time to make it completely searchable, so if anyone has a spare hour or two a week and would like to get involved in this project please get in touch
SOCIAL MEDIA WHIZZKID WANTED –
Would anyone be interested in improving our social media output ? We currently only do Facebook but would love to do more
VOLUNTEERS –
We are always happy to welcome new volunteers We have many projects on the go so if anyone has any spare time and would like to get involved please get in touch No particular expertise necessary, just an interest in helping the local community
Looking to this year ’s event we will be holding our AGM on Wednesday 16th February 2022 on Zoom at 7pm and we would be delighted if local people would join us to discuss future plans for the event Everyone is welcome and we will be electing our committee If you wish to join the committee then please attend the meeting Please contact us on:
dunkeldsantaday@gmail com for the Zoom link
We have set up a Just Giving page so that we can raise some much needed funds so that we can put on this year ’s event Please visit Just Giving and look for Dunkeld & Birnam Santa Day We will be very grateful if you can give any amount to make sure we can go ahead this year
Our Services:
• Service Wash/Drying/Ironing
• Self-Service Machines
• Laundry Products
• Equine Rug Wash & Pet Beds
• Holiday Cover Cleaning Service
• Self Catering, Holiday Homes, Private Homes & Small Businesses
Any questions or to discuss individual or business requirements, please contact: Kelly or Rosanagh on mob: 07871 695461
email: dunbraantaylaundry@yahoo.com
Facebook: @dunbraantaylaundry
Opening times: Tuesday - Friday 9am to 1pm Perth Road, Birnam PH8 0BH (behind the post office)
Start
Independent travel agent based in Birnam No-obligation quotes available.
protected Phone: 07539 581526 Email: dot@startheretravel uk
The exciting news for the New Year is that Climate Café Dunkeld & Birnam has moved into a fixed new home in the Lagmhor Community Space, where it will get together on the first Thursday every month through 2022 from 7pm!
With an action focused programme of ideas and chat for the year, February kicks off with a Climate Café with our twinned city of Asheville joining us via zoom, to which you are welcome Please do book via info@climate cafe
Our Climate Café in Dunkeld & Birnam has inspired other communities, campuses and workplaces to consider a Climate Café, locally and globally 2021 was a year of new Climate Cafés, connections and collaborations, with a new website launch (www climate cafe) through to #COP26 in Glasgow Climate Café volunteers worked with many inspiring people and organisations across the world throughout the year, including incredible with Climate Reality Leaders trained by Al Gore on delivering presentations on the science, impacts and solutions to support new Climate Cafés to get started
In Glasgow, a Climate Café for #COP26 created a welcoming space to share climate stories, chat & ideas for action This was kindly hosted by First Bus Scotland at the largest charging depot for electric buses in the UK The connection with the wider world continued throughout COP26 through #GlobalCafésLive, in partnership with the Climate Crisis Film Festival, creating conversations across continents Participants joined from Birnam to Benin, Pitlochry to Pennsylvania, sharing views of volcanoes in Alaska, expertise on forests in India and community action in Australia to Mexico Every day climate conversations were possible through more pop up cafés kindly supported by Scottish Government with a particular a focus on climate justice and just transition with participation from across the globe
The Climate Café CIC (Community Interest Company) based in Little Dunkeld is in place to support and connect Climate Cafés across the world
In 2022, watch out for new connections and resources - lots of local action, more of the #GlobalCafesLive programme and more opportunities for collaboration in creating sustainable communities locally and more widely
For more information on Climate Café, our local Climate Café and others - go to www climate cafe or join in the next Café on February 3rd from 7 pm
Michael and Luna arrived at Cape Spear, Newfoundland on Sunday 5th December, 5000 miles on and 9 months later after setting off from Tofino, Vancouver Island in early March Lots of adventures and many memories made- not to mention £51,777 raised for Trees for Life With many messages of congratulations to spur him on (including from the Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, Deputy First Minister John Swinney, Elaine C Smith and The Proclaimers), it was an emotional moment when the sight of the Cape Spear lighthouse came into view None of it would have been possible without the
incredible support received both sides of the waterheartfelt thanks are sent to all
Thank you to Julie Hunt from Going Pottie and Mridula from Birnam Studio for their fundraising raffles which raised a whopping £545 for Michael and Luna Jackie from the Blue Magpie gift shop was the lucky winner of Michael MacGnome, and Evelyn Bell is delighted with her gift voucher to spend on a piece of art from Mridula’s studio And many thanks to Alison Campbell for driving it all
and the last word from me, Michael’s mum I went out to Canada to be there when he finished the walk He didn’t know that I was going, and it was a wonderful reunion on the evening before the last day of his walk At the time I posted a Facebook message, an extract of which follows
‘This walk has been so much more than a 5000 mile walk There are lessons or examples for us all perhaps, in just keeping on going even when it’s very hard I hope even it’s blowing a hoolie that I might meet you at Cape Spear if you are able to be there And if you’re not then I know that he’ll sense the strength of emotion and well wishes being sent his way Michael didn’t need to walk across Canada to make me proud The fact that he has is testament to his courage and belief that we can all, if we put our minds to it, make a difference in this wonderful world we have the privilege to enjoy for a brief time ’
Karen (Michael’s mum)
For a longer article with more information about Michael’s adventure see: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk
From November to the end of February, Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve opens to the public three days a week, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10 30am-4pm Through this apparently quieter wintertime, Scottish Wildlife Trust staff are busy recruiting and planning for the season ahead In March, when we open our doors more often, our team will have more than doubled, preparations will be in place for protecting the ospreys (fingers crossed for their return!) and events and displays will be organised to celebrate the Visitor Centre’s 50th anniversary
At Loch of the Lowes, great spotted woodpeckers are already claiming their territories by drumming Beautiful great crested grebes are amongst the first water birds to start courting and February visitors often see their dramatic ‘dancing’ displays The woodland is stirring with returning birdsong and the earliest breeders of them all, rooks and crows are nesting
If they’ve survived the leanest days of midwinter, our native mammals, including red squirrel, can struggle in February when their fat and food reserves are running low On milder, dry days, look out for red squirrels gathering winter bedding (e g moss, lichen) and deer snatching mouthfuls of new growth
For the instantly recognisable black and white badger, February is a memorable month Regardless of when
they are impregnated, almost all badgers give birth in February This clever natural process of delayed impregnation allows the cubs to spend their first weeks safely underground, before venturing out in April or May when food is more readily available
The green shoots of honeysuckle and elder, and the tiny spears from bulbs like snowdrops are rising from the earth to bloom, regardless of the vagaries of February’s weather Snowdrops, like certain other winter flowering plants, contain an anti-freeze which allows them to survive icy conditions After a brutally cold night, these delicate white flowers appear to be frozen solid with a covering of sparkling ice, but under the surface, the cells are alive and well
Be careful if walking on heavily frosted lawn grass, it can bruise and snap When the frost has thawed, you may see ghostly, brownish footprints This is from damage caused by someone walking across the stiff, frozen grass blades
Make the most of nature’s winter wonders because Spring will be upon us before we know it
Keep up to date with Loch of the Lowes by following us on Facebook: Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve or Twitter: @LochoftheLowes
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 eleventh growing season in our field at the top of Brae Street, Dunkeld
Another successful harvest last year included some new crops, autumn raspberries and different squashes and pumpkins Plus favourites such as broad beans, peas, swede, parsnip, kalettes 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 at Birnam Arts on Tuesdays and the Duchess Anne on Saturdays
We grow the food for the wider community and ourselves We welcome people 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 eg this year we had a very successful Willow Weaving workshop In addition you can work @ the field or sell 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 have regular work parties on a Thursday and Saturday mornings throughout the year Pre Covid we also had a popular AGM and harvest supper at the beginning of November each year and we hope to reinstate that this 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
For the first time ever, Breadalbane Academy is proud to offer full-time Gaelic provision from Nursery all the way to SQA Examinations in Senior Phase What does this mean in a practical sense for you and your family? Your child can now reap the benefits of bilingual education from enrolment in nursery to the upper end of secondary school
A Gaelic education can provide your child with a second language and a world of opportunities To further explore the benefits of Gaelic-Medium Education, why don’t you have a look at FAQs about GME: https://fdp gaidhlig scot/en/information/frequentlyasked-questions/
Additionally PKC can arrange financial support for transport to those who live in the Highland Perthshire area and wish to attend GME education This aims to help to make accessing GME provision more accessible to all, especially those who live further afield Although English-medium enrolment is required by January, Gaelic-medium enrolment for new Primary Ones (P1s) can be done up to and including August This means that you and your family have time to see if Gaelic-Medium Education suits you and your family’s needs
There are a number of ways of getting involved in the Gaelic-medium community Cròileagan, a Gaelic playgroup, is available every Wednesday and Friday 10-11pm at Breadalbane Community Campus for 0-5 year olds and their parents Get involved with our vibrant parent community at: https://www breadalbanegaelic co uk/parents-group We welcome all to get directly in contact with the Gaelic parents group (gaelicparents@gmail com) or Breadalbane Academy (breadalbane@pkc gov uk) to find out more about Gaelic Nursery or Primary enrolment
Parent Testimony:
"We have our three children in GME education at Breadalbane, in P6, P4 and P2 We've been blown away by how quickly they pick up a second language, but also by how creative they've all become This was an additional bonus that we hadn't realised learning a second language would bring They all love school and are really happy there which is also very important to us The GME children all look out for each other in a really positive, caring way, which I think is due to being in such a positive, nurturing environment We've been so pleased with making this choice for our children "
The Communities Investment Fund (CIF) is designed to support local projects which tackle inequalities (age, ability, gender, income etc)in communities across Perth and Kinross
A second round of funding has just opened for applications by 18 February More details on the PKC website:https://www pkc gov uk/article/20535/Communi ty-Investment-Fund This fund is for tackling inequalities in our community
PKC has opened the Digital Inclusion Fund, and invites community groups to bid for funding to improve digital participation and inclusion in their local community The funding is for any project which provides access to digital technology and skills development or involves the installation of public wi-fi in community-owned or managed facilities There are no specific criteria for this fund, other than:
• any facility the community groups are applying for must be owned or managed by a committee of community members,
the community group must be able to maintain the running costs of your project into the longer term
• any devices or other technologies remain the property of the applicant group
If you, or if you know of a community group who would be interested in applying, there is a short application form, which can be found at: https://forms office com/r/8Q6MvG1mht
Information about the fund can also be found on the PKC website www pkc gov uk/pkgrantsdirect
The Digital Participation Working group within Perth and Kinross Council will then access the applications, and the groups will be notified if they have been successful with their application
Thanks, Stewart
The next Climate Cafe this Thursday will be held online on zoom due to current COVID guidance but when we can meet safely in person, we will have an exciting new space to meet at our Community Co-working Space, Lagmhor (the Old Doctor's Surgery where WWF Scotland were once based)
In the meantime, please register in advance for the meeting so that we can arrange the session to suit those attending as well as we can
You are invited to a Zoom meeting
When: Feb 3, 2022 07:00 PM London
Register in advance for this meeting: https://us02web zoom us/meeting/register/tZAvce6rqj4 pE9yHZ7CLTc8QDOe6NrLBdnsV
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting
There is a zoom slot booked for each Climate Café for 2022 in case anyone chooses to join by zoom in the future too - we can set it up so you can join virtually if you choose Jess Peppe
Climate Café Dunkeld & Birnam Dates for 2022
Feb 3, 2022 07:00 PM Mar 3, 2022 07:00 PM Apr 7, 2022 07:00 PM May 5, 2022 07:00 PM Jun 2, 2022 07:00 PM Jul 7, 2022 07:00 PM Aug 4, 2022 07:00 PM Sep 1, 2022 07:00 PM Oct 6, 2022 07:00 PM Nov 3, 2022 07:00 PM Dec 1, 2022 07:00 PM
“Everybody has a little bit of the sun and moon in them Everybody has a little bit of man, woman, and animal in them Darks and lights in them Everyone is part of a connected cosmic system Part earth and sea, wind and fire, with some salt and dust swimming in them We have a universe within ourselves that mimics the universe outside None of us are just black or white, or never wrong and always right No one No one exists without polarities Everybody has good and bad forces working with them, against them, and within them
PART SUN AND MOON by Suzy Kassem”
We are all God bearers
Some of you may know that I stay 5 days a week in my cottage on the hills above Loch Ness, not many know that whilst I am there I wild swim with my two dogs I find this discipline has many benefits, physically for my arthritis, mentally for my winter sleepy mind and spiritually for it is in the cold water surrounded by high hills, and with the longest view down the loch that I say morning prayer and shout out my gratitude for all that I am blessed to have and for Gods never failing provision in my life
One morning I walked to my secluded and beautiful little Sandy place to begin my swim Each step bringing tingling awareness of the peace that I crave, and expectation of the joy that the cold water shocks into my aching limbs It was a perfect freezing cold morning The sky clear blue, the hills snow white, the birds were hovering, the fish were jumping, the dogs were playing and life felt peaceful
And then!!! I noticed a group of young men sitting not far from my sanctuary , laughing, preparing to fish; I was less than pleased to share my moment with the God of creation in that creation
I went into the water with a less than gracious attitude, casting dagger looks toward the group, and sulking, I swam with my dogs, I said my prayers less loudly than usual, spoke out my gratitude less exuberantly than I am known to do
I walked out of the cold clear water to dry off and the group beckoned me over They commented on my swim and my prayer then broke a loaf of bread that one of them, a baker, had brought for their breakfast, an arm was held out with a chunk of the bread toward me “Peace be with you, we are all God bearers” he said We chatted with each other for the next half an hour, shared faith stories and testimonies, they encouraged my ministry and I theirs ; each of them were committed to living out their own faiths in their own cities, and we smiled, and I was reminded in that encounter with complete strangers that to share creation is communion, to share bread is love
That lesson was learned well and I am so very grateful
Lesley Ann Craddock
Worship is getting back to near normal but there are still some restrictions Members of the congregation are still required to wear masks, including while singing and we have to socially distance household groups Hand sanitisers are placed at the door and people are encouraged to use that on entry and exit At the moment we only have one morning service at 11am in Little Dunkeld and on the 3rd Sunday of the month there is a service at Amulree Kirk at 2 15pm All are welcome
It is hoped that the Covid infection rate will be reduced enough to allow us to hold a Communion Service on March 6th
Online worship continues and can be accessed on our YouTube channel ‘Dunkeld Cathedral online ’
A fantastic team of people puts in a lot of work to produce the end result Everyone involved is well aware of the commitment this requires but also recognises what an important development this has been It continues to be under review and in the next few weeks the team will be looking at how we can develop this ministry
It would be helpful to have any feedback or comments from people who watch so please send them to RPenny@churchofscotland org uk
The men’s breakfast is meeting virtually at 9am on Wednesdays The bacon rolls don’t quite taste the same but it is good to get the chance to catch up
If you would like more details please contact Peter Mackie at Petermackie46@gmail com
A group for P 7 and S 1 meets in the Duchess Anne on Thursdays between 7 and 8 30 We are doing a ‘zoom’ get together on the 20th and hope to meet again in person on the 27th onwards
For more information, please contact William Hogg (727053) or Fraser Penny (727249)
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
Highland Perthshire charity offers free debt help and top tips on saving money this Winter
Christians Against Poverty’s (CAP) Highland Perthshire Debt Centre want to help people save money and stay within a budget as we head into the Winter months
The longer nights mean that people are spending more time indoors in the evenings, with heating and lighting on much earlier This is extremely challenging for low income families or anyone on a tight budget
CAP’s top tips:
• Turn the thermostat down by just two degrees from 20°C to 18°C This will make a big difference If you can afford to, make sure that you have your boiler serviced to ensure it is operating efficiently If you still feel cold wrap up in a jumper or blanket before turning it up any higher
• Spend less time in the shower by setting a timer Doing so could save a family of four, on average, as much as £100 per year
Use cold water for hand washing It’s the soap that kills the bacteria, not the hot water
• Unplug your microwave A microwave uses energy
to power its clock 24/7 By unplugging it when you’re not using it, you can really cut down on electricity
Replace your light bulbs Moving from traditional incandescent bulbs to CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps) or LED bulbs saves money because they are 90% more energy efficient and last 50 times longer
• Don’t use plug in electric heaters unless it’s absolutely necessary They use a tremendous amount of electricity and the bills will go up dramatically
• Investigate local sources of support for warmer homes such as boiler grants and free loft insulation
For more details see: warmconnections net or mygov scot/help-energy-bills/
If anyone reading this is worried about debts piling up that are causing anxiety and stress then contact CAP on 0800 328 0006 or capuk org as soon as possible to get free debt help
CAP is here on your doorstep ready to help ease the burden of money worries
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/
Churches Charity Shop
High Street Dunkeld
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10-4
Donations welcome
during opening hours
Can you spare 3 hours a month to help in our shop?
Call in for a chat or contact:
Anne Graham: 07751 593421
Mara Maggio 01350 727585
Dianne Simpson 07796 920018
Marion Eglinton 07740 877504
Find us on Facebook at 3 Churches Charity Shop
Church of Scotland:
Congregational Office Bearers:
Minister: Rev R Fraser Penny,B A B D , Cathedral Manse, Dunkeld, PH8 0AW
Tel: 01350 727249
e-mail: r fraserpenny@gmail com
Session Clerk: Mrs. C. McNicoll
Tel: 01350 727500
e-mail: mcnicoll431@btinternet com
Treasurer: Mr. John Gray
Highfield, Brae Stret, Dunkeld, PH8 0BA
Tel: 01350 728697
e-mail: gray john17@sky com
Covenant Officer: Mrs. Ann Bryce
Tomnagrew House, Dunkeld PH80BX
Tel: 01350 723228
e-mail: j bryce@farmline com
Organist & Choir Leader: Mrs Hazel Murch
Tel: 07867 642954
e-mail: hazel murch@gmail com
Parish Office: Mrs Jill McCrory
The Chanonry, 07808 703641
email: chanonrydunkeld@gmail com www dunkeldcathedral org uk
St Mary’s Episcopal Church, Birnam
The Rector:
Reverend Lesley-Ann Craddock
Priest in Charge of St Mary’s Birnam and Dunkeld
St Mary’s rectory, St Mary’s Rd, Birnam, PH8 0BJ
Tel: 07903 020509
email: lesley craddock@btinternet com
Part time = Friday, Saturday & Sunday
I can also be found dwelling nr LochNess
01456486663
Treasurer:
Penny MacGregor and Charles Cox
Vestry Secretary:
Adrian Freer
Tel: 01821 650536
email: adrianfreer@btinternet com
Organist :
John Walker B Mus, FRCO, LRAM, ARCM
Tel: 01350 727755
(www stmarysbirnam org uk)
We hope to reopen the Meeting Place very soon
Please keep an eye out in the March edition of the Bridge for an update.
If you are able to help with volunteering at the Meeting Place please phone Margaret on 01738 710399
St Columba’s Roman Catholic Church
Catholic Church Priest:
Father Neil Gallagher
Tel: 01796 472174
e-mail: stbridespitlochry@dunkelddiocese org uk
Bride’s Catholic Church
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
We're missing all our Messy Church friends and families, but hope to see you soon.
We have moved into 2022 and I take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy New Year I hope a Good Christmas was enjoyed by all and hopefully we can look forward to a more normal existence now Covid seems to be in retreat It was disappointing that restrictions were imposed for Christmas and table service was back in restaurants and bars It affected the pantomime, and the theatre was closed There were many disappointed children and families who once more lost out on an annual treat Football got a reprieve but not a family favourite The Omicron strain of the virus is affecting many more people, but the infection is not too severe, and figures show the unvaccinated are the ones ending up needing to be in the ICUs Vaccinations are a personal choice, but people have a responsibility not to put others at risk With the passing of lockdown there seems to be more cars than ever back on our roads Complaints about speeding have never been higher, and many communities including Dunkeld, Meikleour and Dalguise plus others have reported problems Ian and I have worked with the communities and road engineers and a number of speed limits and Vehicle Activated Signs (VAS) are programmed to be installed Hopefully this will be this year though the situation can change when a major accident causes a safety problem as this takes priority Rumbling Bridge is a case in point That is expected to be repaired in the spring I am often asked about the 20mph limits as the Places for Freedom project is nearing the end of the period The valuation of the programme will be in a few months, then be reported to a council committee before any decision will be taken They seem to be very popular as the number of requests I am getting from other communities for 20mph limits show If you would like to comment on the 20mph limit you can email me
I attended the PH8 community consultation in October This was very well-attended and groups discussed, population demographics and the community, housing and development, tourism and the local economy, education and young people, health and social care, sport and recreation, community facilities and activities for groups, sustainability and the environment, heritage and culture, public transport
The Community Council have done amazing work so far and working to take it forward quickly They have identified what is important to local communities and this is an opportunity to have a say in how the community develops Contact the community council to take part
A new year as always, sees us waiting to find out how far our settlement from Holyrood will go toward paying for services As before, we know there will be a shortfall, this year it will be bigger than ever This leaves very little uncommitted money to pay for services as there are restrictions on what the council can spend money on ScotGov has given councils permission to raise council tax with no cap, I expect some councils will be giving their residents a shock We need to make every penny count In Perth & Kinross
The 2021/2022 Community Investment Fund is open for a limited second round of applications The local partnership is looking for groups operating in Strathtay who would benefit from some project cash to apply Applications will close on Friday 18th February 2022 at 5pm
Full information on the PKC website Community Investment Fund - Perth & Kinross Council (pkc gov uk)
THINK LOCAL, BUY LOCAL, STAY LOCAL. Keep safe, keep well and follow the advice
As always, I am happy to take up enquiries on your behalf, it may take longer for a while but contact me on 01738 475030 or email annejarvis@pkc gov uk
Ann Jarvis, Conservative Councillor, Strathtay Ward 5
JOHN SWINNEY, MSP for PERTHSHIRE NORTH can be contacted at: 17-19 LESLIE STREET, BLAIRGOWRIE Tel: 01250 876576
SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, EDINBURGH EH99 1SP Tel: 0131 348 5717 e-mail: john swinney@parliament scot
Pete Wishart MP: Member of Parliament for Perth and North Perthshire pete.wishart.mp@parliament.uk Perth Office: 63 Glasgow Road, Perth, PH2 0PE. Tel: 01738 639598 North Perthshire Office: 17-19 Leslie St, Blairgowrie, PH2 6AH Tel: 01250 876 576
Do you love children, enjoy being outdoors and are looking for an exciting new challenge?
We are seeking a Childcare Practitioner in our Out of School Childcare service 45 weeks per year, based in Pitlochry Part time, permanent position, 20 hours per week Job Purpose
To support, develop and work alongside all small team, in delivering high quality play experiences within the kids' club setting supporting the smooth day to day running of the service and offering support and care to children and their families Work alongside and support staff in all aspects of the service to ensure effective delivery, which meets the identified needs of users Person Specification
You should have an HNC in Childcare and Education, or SVQ3 in Social Services (Children and Young People) or equivalent, and relevant experience in childcare Ideally The Childcare Supervisor should have an awareness of ‘My World Outdoors’, with experience of delivering outdoor play and learning, and the ability to develop and implement nature based activities for the kids' club
The Childcare Supervisor will be extremely well organised and able to juggle a varied workload, including taking the setting through the Care Inspectorate inspections, writing and implementing policies, developing professional partnerships with the Local Authority, relevant childcare support agencies and other community groups If this sounds like the role for you we would love to hear from you Please email us at thedenrecruitment@gmail com for a full job description and application form Visit our website to learn more about The Den: www thedenatheartland com The Den @ Heartland Kids' Club, Registered charity No SC049188
The Sinclair Family Trust was established in 2018 to provide support to people in need living in the North Perthshire area
The Trust is actively seeking applications and will consider funding requests from individuals, groups and local organisations for the purposes of providing assistance to those in need in meeting the demands of day-to-day living Each application will be considered on its merits and we aim to respond to applicants within 3 months of receipt of their application. Further information and our application form are available on the website: www sinclairfamilytrust co uk
For more details please contact:The Sinclair Family Trust 10 Barossa Place Perth
With COVID-19 restrictions easing across the country, we are delighted to announce that we will be going ahead with The 17th Niel Gow Festival This will be taking place on the 18th to the 20th March 2022
During the festival, we will be adhering to Government guidlines as they are announced, and we will take every precaution to ensure that you feel safe whilst attending the various concerts over the weekend
We just want to take a moment to thank every one of you for your continued support throughout this difficult time - without you we would not be able to continue to put on this festival, and for that we are truly grateful
Please see the programme detailing the great concerts, workshops and events that we are running this year
And, as always, there will be sessions running into the early hours of the morning, so bring your instrument and play to your heart's content You don't want to miss this one!
We've missed you Welcome back
Festival program and tickets available from:
Birnam Arts
Web: https://www birnamarts com/ Tel: 01350 727674
Email: info@birnamarts com
Performers include: Aaron Jones | Adam Sutherland | Alastair J Hardie | Alastair McCulloch | Alastair Savage | Anne Taylor | Brian McAlpine | Charlie McKerron | Chris Amer | Roddy Matthews | David MacFarlane | Douglas Lawrence | Dunkeld & District Strathspey & Reel Society | Gordon Gunn | Graham Mackenzie | Hannah Fisher | Iain Anderson | Iain Fraser | Karys Watt | Marc Clement | Marie Fielding | Maureen Rutherford | Muriel Johnstone | Paul Anderson | Pete Clark | Riddell Fiddles | Roddy Matthews | Ruairidh MacMillan | Ryan Young | Sorren MacLean | Suzanne Houston | Donald Knox
Dear Editor,
I read with interest in your November issue Mr David MacDougall’s more-than-justified plea to restore the Hermitage path on the south side of the Braan to its former glory This public path, high above the river, formed one of the finest circular woodland walks in Scotland From today’s Hermitage car parks, it also gave access across the A822 to that spider ’s web of delightful paths leading up to the open ground and moorlands around Balhomish, down to Dunkeld’s second great waterfall at Rumbling Bridge or a return by the Birnam Glen Many areas of Scotland would long to have such country and such walking gems
Closing off this once-popular right-of-way on safety grounds is, of course, unchallengeable, but it is also the easy option By its long inaction and reticence it now seems Forestry Scotland is content to wash their hands of restoring the path for all time This would be disgraceful It was on Forestry Scotland’s watch that the path was allowed to fall into disrepair
Surely Forestry Scotland have an obligation to seriously examine means of making the path safe again, and unequivocally state their intentions for its future to the people of Dunkeld Unless, of course, they have an entirely different reason or agenda they are trying not to reveal If so it is important it should be aired now It is around 15 years since this splendid route has been denied to locals, visitors and the fast-growing army of walkers Frankly, that period of inactivity and silence is best described as ‘shameful’
After all this time surely Forestry Scotland should be required to publicly state their intentions and be held to public account Are they going ahead or not? If yes –then details and a timeframe should be provided If they are not going ahead – then why not?
As a reminder, examined last month, only a 25-yard stretch of the path is a problem where a tree has fallen and taken the bank down with it Two men with a chain saw and a day’s work would clear the half dozen small trees from the rest of the path and give it a touch of TLC
Is cost the reason or excuse for doing nothing? But right across Scotland funding is being found for many, many large and small local projects, some of which won’t provide the benefits of a new Braan path Coastal walks, traffic-free city walks, riverside walks, cycle paths, paths to provide improved communications, the repair of mountain tracks etc are all commonplace now as well as attracting funding Why should the southern Braan path be considered differently?
Hopefully, the 15-year delay is not a case of the disinterest and apathy that can befall some senior managements of large organisations which can sometimes become too remote from their rural communities and lose perspective Forestry Scotland’s decision to consider the matter closed could, after all, be interpreted as uncaring, aloof, high-handed as well as displaying poor judgement Ian Nimmo, Freuchie, Fife
Mainly Saturday changeovers, approximately 35 lets per year, 4-6 hours per changeover.
Extremely good hourly rate for person willing to work to exceptional standards
Additional remuneration may be possible for laundry costs.
Could share responsibility with one other person
Must be registered as self-employed
For further details, contact Karen, 07957 508 342
Our Doctors Surgery will be open as normal with telephone consultations with the GP in the first instance
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
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
Birnam Institute Library
http://www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/ business-showcase/1064-birnam-institute-library
Opening hours: Thursday 5pm-7pm
Due to Covid19 restrictions, the library will not be open for browsing Birnam Library is situated in the Birnam Arts Centre, Station Road, Birnam, PH8 0DS Tel: 01738 459709
RBS mobile bank visits Dunkeld and Birnam. Thursdays: Dunkeld, The Cross 14.50 pm to 15.20 pm and Birnam, Post Office 15.25 pm to 15.45 pm
Birnam
If you would like to contact the Community Council you can do so by emailing: dbcc correspondence@gmail com or email the Chair on dbcc chair@gmail com
You can also contact us via the messaging system on our facebook page
Of course, if you have the opportunity, then please do chat to any member of the Community Council if you bump into them while out and about
Meetings are held monthly at 7pm on the second Monday of the month Date of next meetings: 14th February
14th March
11th April
Venue: Online zoom meeting
Please email us on the above address if you would like to attend and we will send you a zoom invitation
To read the minutes of previous meetings and to find the agenda for forthcoming meetings, see: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/community-news/ community-council
It has been another brisk start to the year for the Community Council, with a number of ongoing issues on our agenda, from traffic and road safety to affordable housing and planning applications Whilst it can at times be frustratingly slow to bring about changes that benefit the community, there is also much to celebrate, and three recent successes should be mentioned in dispatches and celebrated accordingly
First, the recent upgrade to the Little Dunkeld A9 Junction The improved signage, lane marking and illuminated bollards are significantly better in my view Whilst it is inevitably an interim solution whilst we await the outcome of the A9 dualling plans, the improvements are likely to stand us in good stead for many years whilst a long-term solution is found, and may well save lives A huge thank you is owed to Pam Green and a committed group of volunteers who have campaigned tirelessly at all levels of government to secure support for these improvements Thank you Pam, you are a local hero!
Second, the Multi Use Games Area (or MUGA as it is known) that is planned for the Dunkeld and Birnam Sports and Leisure Hub has received planning permission With funding secured for the project, construction is due to start later this year This exciting development will mean that we finally have an all year round, covered and floodlit outdoor games pitch for the community to use As a parent with two boys just starting out at the Royal School of Dunkeld who will benefit directly from the facilities, I am immensely grateful to all of the team at the Sports and Leisure Hub who have made this exciting idea a reality, in particular David Tripney, Sally Robertson, Stuart Paton and Project architect Jane Brewster The development also now gives us an opportunity to campaign for a proper off-road footpath from Little Dunkeld to the Medical Centre and the MUGA, another important priority particularly for young and old alike in the community
Finally, we should celebrate the amazing work done on the PH8 Community Action Plan led by John Gilruth
and another dedicated group of volunteers As the project team work on transitional plans to set up a longterm community organisation to oversee the range of important projects that came out of the survey work, we should again pause momentarily to recognise the success of this project In the Information Age data is key, and we now have community wide views and preferences to support campaigns for change and plans for the future
All three of the above projects show what can be achieved by focussed and resourceful groups in our community For my part, this is my last update as a Community Councillor after three challenging but rewarding years I am not going far though and will continue to volunteer on some of the road and cycle safety initiatives and am planning to join the board of another community organisation shortly
I would strongly encourage everyone to consider doing a stint on the Community Council As the most localised rung of local government, the Community Council plays an important role in a number of areas by endeavouring to represent the community’s views on local issues and planning applications (although it should be noted that community councils are not involved in approving or refusing planning permission) It also administers several local community grant schemes, amongst other responsibilities
In particular, I would love to see more young people on the Community Council, as somewhat worryingly I have been one of the more youthful members over the last few years! Anyone over 16 is eligible to join - no experience whatsoever is required and it will look great on your CV If interested Lachlan, Chris and the team would love to hear from you at: dbcc correspondence@gmail com
Andrew Cave
Asheville Sister Cities International has been interested in a sign downtown for some time but no organized effort was put forth Because of my long standing relationship with city officials I was "volunteered" for the task which turned out to be a year long project
We utilized the firm that makes and installs all of the wayfinding signs for the city for continuity and requested a prominent location on Pack Square near City Hall (ed: This is in the historic district of downtown Asheville ) This sign will give added exposure to ASCI and to all of Asheville’s sister cities They are Vladikavkaz, Russia, Karpenisi, Greece, Saumur, France, Osogbo, Nigeria, Valladolid, Mexico, San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico and of course our most recent, Dunkeld and Birnam Just a block away from where the sign in place is the Wortham Performing Arts Center, the Asheville Art Museum, the Pack Square major Intersection including the Pack’s Tavern!
We followed the pattern of most such signs in the US by giving the distance in miles to our twins and will add a flower bed to the base in the spring to give it a little extra When a Dunkeld and Birnam committee member next visits Doug & I will arrange for photos with the Mayor and others at the sign
Rick Lutovsky
Listing for local voluntary organisations are free however The Bridge welcomes donations to cover the cost of these listings Please send donations to the Advertising Manager, John B Gray at Highfield, Brae Street, Dunkeld, PH8 0BA Many thanks
Please contact the editor with amendments/additions
Organsiations - General
Phone 01350+
Dunkeld & Birnam in Bloom 01350 727288 Linda Speirs
Guide Dogs for the Blind 727346 / 727657
Friends of the Cathedral 01350 728697 John Gray
Probus Club 01738 787930 Sandy Love
Email: slove59@aol com
Horticultural Society 727255 Jan Silburn
Historical Society daveroberts132@btinternet com Dave Roberts
National Trust for Scotland North Perthshire Ranger Service - Office: 01350728641
The Meeting Place (Fridays DA) 727382 Jean Dickson
SWRI Email: evelyn menzies@sky com Evelyn Menziesl
SWRI Amulree 01350 723203 Jane Anderson
Chapter House Archive (Mon 10-12 & 7-9, Wed & Fri 10-12) 01350 727786
Bridge Club (Tuesday 6 45pm BI) 727294 Vilma Morison
Royal British Legion 01350 728884 W Forsyth
Tourist Association 01350 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
Community Learning & Development
PKC CLD Staff 01738 459701
Email: dunkeldcomlearn@pkc gov uk Cat Gordon/Kim McBain/Alison May
U3A 01796 483281 Meg Ross Email: megross@btinternet com
Sport
Dunkeld & Birnam Angling Association Secretary, Russ Jobson dunkeldangling@gmail com DBAA@live co uk
Bowling Club Gael Shaw 07977 911068 Gaelshaw@btinternet com
Badminton johnrmoy@googlemal com
Field Archery 07786 073686 01350 727911
Glendelvine/Spittalfield Cricket Club (all ages) Neil Wimberley
Website: www glendelvinecricketclub com Email: wimbo32@hotmail com Golf Club (Visitors Welcome) 727524
Highland Perthshire Clay Shooting Club 07821 940252 Secretary Ted Carr Email: thecarr@waitrose com
Leisure Group (Sports Centre Project) 727361 Alasdair Wylie
Curling 01738 454700 Claire Milne
Tennis Club m: 07740 586064 or 01738 710484 Shona Smith Email: shonamh@googlemail com
Tayside Orienteers 727048 Bill Melville
Running Club adrianrdavis@hotmail com Adrian Davis
Netball 723269 Tiffy Shedden
Yoga 728773 June Mitchell
Yoga 2 728783 Sue Atkinson
Uver 35's Rugby 07738 006738 iainhg@aol com
Tai Chi 07551029076 John Connelly
Music & Arts
Cathedral Tower Bell Ringers 724218 Iona O’Connor Film Society 727740
Handbell Ringers 01828 628109 Margaret Davidson
Birnam Institute - Arts & Conferences 727674
Just Singin’ 7 30 Weds BI 07545 219529 Carole Reid www justsingin co uk
BIPS howemarilyn@hotmail com Marilyn Howe
Birnam Youth Theatre Mon 5 00-6 30pm 727207
Dunkeld Strathspey & Reel Society 07531 520476 Duncan Thomson duncanwthomson@yahoo co uk
Silversmithing Wed 7-9pm 727674
Arty Kids Wed (from 18thApr) 4-5pm 6wks 727674
Birnam Arts Ballet Tues/Wed/Thu age4up 727674
Ceramics Tues/Thurs 10am-1pm 7-9 30pm 727674
Scottish Country Dancing 01738 561676 / 01350 727380 Helen or Dinah
Annual Events
Highland Games (August) www birnamhighlandgames com
Christian Aid Week 727867 Jim McCafferty
Flower Festival (bi-ennial) 724255 Sheila Mannion
Art Exhibtion (June - August) 01738 710399 Margaret Scott
Arts & Crafts Fair (June & Nov) 01350 727968 Na an Meikleour
Niel Gow Festival - Weekend close to March 22nd - petethefiddler@btinternet com
For Children Baby & Toddler Group 07546 128902 Lesley Singers
Playgroup 9 20-11 40 Tues and Thurs Playleader: dbplaygroup@gmail com Nursery at Royal School 01738 454470 Royal School Dunkeld Puddleduck Nursery 727117 Heather Morton Royal School of Dunkeld 01738 454470 Kids Club - After school care 07930 462944 Supervisor Sunday School - Church of Scotland 727249 Caputh Baby and Toddler Group Tues 10-11:30am - Lorna 07832 235 607
For Younger People Girlguiding Dunkeld Trix Stephen, District Commissioner (Rainbows Brownies Guides Rangers): Tel 07770324173 Email guider@girlguidingdunkeld org uk Youth Café 727760 Linda McDougall Youth Club Wednesday pm DA 727259 Fraser Penny
The Black Watch Army Cadets 07429 113439 Staff Sergeant Craig Ross Beaver, Cubs, Scouts 07766 071854 Martina Wolfe
Messy Church last Sunday in month 727259/727594 Fraser Penny/Deidre Gerrie
For Older People Servite
07595 651446 Ivan Russell
Working Hours: Mon,Tues,Thurs,Fri: 09:00 – 13:30
Senior Citizens 727311 Ronalda Pattullo
Friends of Rivendell 728885 Fiona Ritchie
Hall Bookings
Duchess Anne 07808 703641 chanonrydunkeld@gmail com Jill McCrory
Chanonry 07808 703641 chanonrydunkeld@gmail com Jill McCrory
Birnam Institute 727674
Dalguise Village Hall 07746 392268
Amulree Village Hall www amulreehall org uk
Caputh Hall caputhhall@gmail com 01738 710 848
Local Organisations - Continued
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
Police (Tayside Non-Emergency) 101
BA = Birnam Arts Centre
DA = Duchess Anne Hall, The Cross, Dunkeld
February 2022
3 Climate Café 7pm Zoom / Community Coworking Space
10 Scottish Opera Highlights – Greatest hits & lesser-known gems 7 30pm Birnam Arts
13 Film Club The Good Liar 2019 1:49m 15 7:30pm Birnam Arts
16 Santa Day AGM 7pm Zoom dunkeldsantaday@gmail com
19 Introduction to Pottery 9 - 10am, 10 30am - 11 30am, 12 - 1pm Birnam Arts
21 Historical Society AGM and talk by Ruth Brown from the Archives 7:45pm 22-6 Feb Exhibition celebrating a life – Cameron Murray 10am - 4pm Birnam Arts
27 Film Club Dogman 2018 1:43m 15 7:30pm Birnam Arts
March 2022
Exhibiton : Weights of Responsibility Exhibition & Artist Tal 10am - 4pm Birnam Arts
3 Climate Café 7pm Zoom / Community Coworking Space
5 Vegetal Light: a workshop in embodied photography 10am - 3pm Birnam Arts
Sliding Scale @ £10 (1 ticket) / £20 (1 ticket) / £30 (2 tickets)
[Subsidised by Creative Scotland] Max: 6 participants
11&12 A weekend of events at the Archives see main section for info
12 Doug Allan - Nature, Camera, Action Birnam Arts 7 30pm
13 Film Club Elevator to the Gallows 1958 1:31m A 7:30pm Birnam Arts
18-20 Niel Gow Festival Exhibition in the Community Archive 10-3pm
21 Historical Society talk by Ian Shields -The Battle of Dunkeld, Uniforms and Weapon 7:45pm
27 Film Club Ladies in Black 2018 1:49m PG 7:30pm Birnam Arts
April 2022
7 Climate Café 7pm Zoom / Community Coworking Space
8 CUA 7 30pm Birnam Arts
10 Film Club The Personal History of David Copperfield 2019 1:59m PG 7:30pm Birnam Arts 15 Jack Docherty – Nothing But 7 30pm Birnam Arts 24 Film Club The Old Man and the Gun 2018 1:33m 12A 7:30pm Birnam Arts
26 Yes! Yes! UCS 7 30pm Birnam Arts
For dates further ahead see: www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk
Telephone & Fax: 01796 472494 Mobile: 07800 577259
Work continues in earnest to publish and publicise the PH8 Community Action Plan which captures a huge amount of input and discussion over the last 6 months- from the survey, focus group meetings, 1-1 sessions and the event on 2nd October Each of the 6 themes in the Plan- safe & active travel; housing for all; connectivity, accessibility and care; environment and a greener future; community & culture; a thriving local economy- has clearly defined actions and people or groups with responsibility for delivery The Plan has a 5-year timescale and the hope is that the actions will make a significant and meaningful difference to our community.
We plan to print out an abbreviated version of the plan to distribute to all houses in the PH8 areathis leaflet will highlight the themes and actions Copies of the full plan will be available in key community venues locally and of course online Both the abbreviated version and the full plan should be available by mid February
In parallel with finalising the plan, we are working on settin up a new community body which will be tasked with monitoring and delivering the plan This body will be a Scottish registered charity with essentially the aims and objectives of a Community Development Trust- this will allow the body to deliver on the action plan, apply for funding, employ staff, and hold assets, including land and buildings The charity will have a small number of Trustees, elected on a regular basis by the members who will be anyone with a direct interest in the PH8 area
We are also starting work on the themes and specific actions There have already been meetings dealing with the housing theme (see the December Bridge for more details) We have received funding from PKC LEADER to progress this theme over the next few months and are very hopeful of making real progress in this time
So, now is the time to start getting involved if you put your name forward at one of the events or now want to volunteer Please email us on ph8communitymatters@gmail com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @ph8communitymatters for further updates
Dog Walking and sitting Service in Murthly, Bankfoot and Dunkeld area
Either group or solo walks daily as well as dog sitting
Prices:
£10 per hour weekdays and £12 per hour weekends
Available 7am until late each day I am insured, hold Canine First Aid Level 4 and current PVG Clearance
Email:cathhendry@icloud com Telephone: 07934217252
If you have lost or found a dog, cat or other pet
Missing Pets, Perth and Kinross 07432 368792 info@dogfriendlyperthshire.co.uk
This space could be selling for you!
Contact the Advertising Manager adverts@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk 07967 117149
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
Join our community led spirit Sign up at: www.dunkelddistillery.com
Follow our journey at: Instagram: @thedunkelddistillery Facebook: @Dunkelddistillery
Heated Kennels
Day & Long Term Stays
Elizabeth & Keith Lumsden 01350 728849
E-mail: bizzabooks@gmail.com
ATHOLL STREET 01350 727556
Proprietor: Alasdair Wylie
G & A Paddocks
Dunkeld Horse Grazing & DIY Livery Call or Email Karen: 07759 701413
gapdunkeld@gmail com
Contact: 01350 727320 Kevin: 07876 744936 www dunkeldbuilders co uk