The Bridge May 2023 by dunkeldandbirnam

Editorial 2

The Bridge

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It is quite something to look at the Stone of Scone on which the Kings of Scots were crowned – which until 1296 was on Moot Hill close to the present-day Scone Palace At the Coronation of Charles III, the ‘Stone of Destiny’ will sit underneath the Kings throne at Westminster Abbey before being returned to Edinburgh Castle It is remarkable to think of the ceremonies that piece of stone has witnessed over more than a thousand years whatever one’s views on the monarchy itself Pondering the sweep of history makes me consider the role of our own archives as a place that captures our community’s stories and history It is great to see that the archives team are wanting to extend and redevelop the current archive buildings Their plans for public consultation will be on display in the gallery of Birnam Arts and in the Community Archive on the Cross They are inviting our feedback and ideas regarding the design so please go along and add your thoughts on how our past can be safely held for future generations to ponder (See p4)

In future I hope our archives will capture stories of how we have positively responded to the enormous challenge of the climate crisis As a community we have already started many initiatives from upcycling, recycling and repairing to reducing water and energy use and increasing our community growing projects Particularly heartening is how initiatives started here are spreading out not just across Scotland but further afield Jess Pepper ’s Climate Café initiative, begun here in Dunkeld and Birnam, now has off shoots everywhere included in our sister city of Asheville (See page 5)

A huge well done to Jess and everyone involved in Climate Café for giving us a way to engage effectively at a local level with a massive global issue

I wonder what future generations will think when the look back on Dunkeld and Birnam in the 2020’s It reminds me that back in February I heard Rick Worrell talking about the ecology and genetics of wild crab apple (Malus sylvestris) - probably Scotland’s least understood and most under-appreciated native tree After the talk I asked him where we could get hold of saplings to plant, and he offered to help us locate some So in the autumn I think I will try to plant one of these remarkable tree as a sign of hope in our future Let me know if you want me to ask him if he could look one out for you to plant too

Sally Robertson

Birnam to Ballinluig A9 Community Group

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

The next A9 Community Group meeting will be on Thursday 25th May, 7.30pm at Birnam Arts/ Zoom unless otherwise notified, or unless events require one sooner. All welcome!

Since our last report was written Kevin Stewart MSP has been appointed Transport Minister, the fourth in three years He previously has held ministerial positions for Local Government, Housing and Planning; and for mental Wellbeing and Social Care The full list of his responsibilities is here: https://www cpt-uk org/news/kevin-stewart-msp-appointed-as-minister-for-transport/

He reports to Mairi McAllan MSP, the new Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition, although Transport does not appear in her title as it did for her predecessor Michael Matheson MSP

The last communication we had from Mr Matheson, in early March, had included: ”I can confirm that we remain committed to completing the dualling of the A9 between Perth and Inverness This was further reiterated by the Minister for Transport in her statement to Parliament on 8th February

As I confirmed to Parliament on 19th January 2023, work is ongoing to identify a Preferred Route option on the section of the A9 between Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing following the innovative co-creative process, with an announcement on the Preferred Route option expected to be made in the coming months (note, no mention of Community Preferred Route) I value the on-going positive engagement with the Community Group and I am aware that Transport Scotland officials provided both verbal and written updates to you recently in October and December 2022 respectively I expect to be in a position to announce a Preferred Route option by this Spring and I would like to take this opportunity to reassure you that the Scottish Government will continue to engage with the group as the project progresses I hope this is of assistance ”

At the time of writing (mid April), we've had no further information from Transport Scotland about a possible community engagement event in May We hope to have a briefing meeting with the new Transport Minister and are grateful to John Swinney MSP for Perthshire North who has written to him requesting a formal meeting with us We hope he will have had a response from Kevin Stewart by the time you read this

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 (May 2019 for PoB to TC!) is at: https://www transport gov scot/news/significant-milestone-as-four-more-a9-dualling-schemes-given-approval https://www transport gov scot/projects/a9-dualling-perth-to-inverness/a9-pass-of-birnam-

Arts News 3

WHAT’S ON AT BIRNAM ARTS

Lulo Reinhardt & Yuliya Lonskaya

Gypsy meets Classical

Thursday 11th May 7.30pm

Ticket £14 + booking fee

Lulo Reinhardt, the grandnephew of Django Reinhardt, has toured the UK several times in the past decade While Lulo has the repertoire of gypsy swing you might expect, he has extended and developed his musical horizons beyond that, with music from North Africa and India influencing his playing Now with Yuliya, he moves towards classical music

Yuliya Lonskaya began learning to play guitar at a young age, going on to gain a diploma at the Belarus Academy of Music and study with Professor Andreas von Wangenheim, Costas Cotsiolis, David Russell, Carlo Marchione and Abel Carlevaro

Since then, Yuliya has won several international guitar competitions in Poland, England, America, Serbia and Montenegro With her eclectic repertoire of folk, jazz, bossa nova, Baroque, Classical and Romantic music, Yuliya is a very welcome performer in many European and American concert halls, playing solo concerts and appearing with orchestras

Two wonderful world-class guitarists, this musical pairing is definitely a cut above Together, as the saying goes, they make beautiful music

Singing and Rainbows – In the Jungle

With Collen and Julia

Saturday 13th May 10.15am 0 – 2yrs 11.30am 2 – 4yrs

Tickets £10

Join opera singers Colleen and Katie for a new jungle-themed show, bringing a magical musical experience to you and your little one Enjoy some of classical music’s best loved arias and duets combined with singing games, sensory play, and puppet friends

Each show lasts 40 minutes

“We’ve taken our son to a number of baby shows and classes and this is by far the best, thank you so much’

“The use of well known classical music with the childrens words you have written works so well, my two loved it”

Rich Hall

Shot From Cannons

Wednesday 17th May 8pm

Tickets £17 + booking fee

Age 14 +

Fresh on the heels of his critically acclaimed memoirs, Nailing It, Montana’s transatlantic messenger returns with new rants, knife-edge observations, thrilling musical interludes and an ever-formidable knack for laughs on the fly You’ll pay for the whole seat, but you’ll only need the edge of it

Vital and incredulously angry Hilarious ” – The Scotsman “Blissfully funny” –Guardian “One hour of stonking stand-up and another of stomping hoedown mayhem That’s two top gigs in one” **** - The Mail on Sunday (Event)

EXHIBITIONS

Safety Mapping Exhibition

6th – 28th May 2023

Safety Mapping exhibition showcases a series of colleges and drawings by members of the community, responding to the question ‘What does safety mean to you?’ created during a series of workshops led by artists Helen O’Brien and Anna Kelso, commissioned by local charity Gender Equality Perth The exhibition will also feature a film made by Anna Kelso combining animation, images of participants’ artwork and text to represent the ideas and themes emerging from the project Visitors to the exhibition will also have an opportunity to respond personally by contributing to the participation wall

WORKSHOPS

Safety Mapping Workshop

Birnam Arts Gallery

Saturday 13th May, 1-3pm (drop-in)

Set within the Safety Mapping exhibition*, artists Anna Kelso and Helen O’Brien will lead a workshop which seeks to ask participants ‘What does safety mean to you?’ Using both collage and mark making this workshop encourages visitors to explore and examine their feelings of safety as they consider the journeys through their day, or their life more generally We welcome participants of all ages to contribute to this community project and through the actions of drawing, cutting and sticking we aim to provide a creative space for visitors to reflect on their physical and emotional feelings of safety within their lived experience

Please check the website for further information on all our regular workshopsBallet / Beginners Guitar / Musical Theatre / Creative Kids / Just Singin' / Pilates / Silversmithing / Tiny Tunes

Bridge - Advertising

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Unfortunately due to increasing publication costs, we have no alternative Prices will be kept at a minimum to support our local businesses and organisations.

We thank you all for your ongoing support and hope you continue to advertise in The Bridge

Arts News continued

Just Singin`

You are always welcome to join in our friendly, mixed a capella choir which meets in Birnam Arts on Wednesdays 7 30pm-9 30pm No auditions or music reading, just come along and sing and have a cup of tea and a biscuit

We welcome back renowned Scots singer Amy Lord this month - find out more about her here: www amylord scot/about/ Please visit www justsingin co uk for fees and full details or email to enquiries@justsingin co uk or `phone Katie on 07765 405203 Save the date! Saturday 17th June 7 30pm - our 20th Anniversary Concert in the BA Special guests are the choir s founder, Christine Kydd and Pete Caban and Dave Amos Come and meet us all there - OR why not join the choir now be part of the performance!?! Best wishes Scottish Charity No 36400

Perth Art Gallery

Come to Perth Art Gallery this spring and explore our new permanent exhibition, Modern Scots The exhibition, over two galleries, tells the story of influential modern Scottish artists and their contribution to 20th and 21st century art The works on display cover the last 100 years and demonstrate the new and innovative ways Scottish artists were working and taking inspiration from the past and Europe The exhibition includes key players in the story of Scottish art, such as Joan Eardley and Sir William MacTaggart, alongside renowned contemporary artists Calum Colvin and Alison Watt

Details can be found on the Culture Perth and Kinross website: https://bit ly/modernscots

Life Drawing Class at Perth Art Gallery

Join local artist Bruce Shaw on Saturday, 27 May, for an exciting tutor-led life drawing class!

This class will provide an excellent opportunity for those looking to build art skills and try their hand at this art form A good start for those preparing portfolios for art college, giving the experience of sketching the human body in 3D and using different poses Get tips and build confidence from the tutor in this creative sketching environment

Participants will be using charcoal, pastels, and pencils This class is suitable for all abilities/ for ages 16+ only/ and all materials are provided as part of the cost Details can be found on the Culture Perth and Kinross website: https://bit ly/3ntJGvQ

Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries

Come along to a Bookbug session at Birnam Library! Join us on Thursday mornings from 10 30am-11 00am for a session of songs, stories, and rhymes for under 5s Prebooking for each session is essential Please get in touch with Birnam Library to book a spot 01738 459709 / birnamlibrary@culturepk org uk

Princh Printing

Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries have installed Princh, a new printing solution in libraries across Perth and Kinross, including Birnam Library With Princh, it is now possible to print from any mobile device, tablet, or laptop from home or in one of our participating libraries Just print, pay online and pick up your items You can send your print jobs at any time from any place, and what's more, you no longer have to wait in line at the printer

Details can be found on our website: https://www culturepk org uk/libraries/internet-and-computers/princh-printing/

Birnam Library

Birnam Library opening hours are:

Thursday 5pm-7pm / Friday 12pm-5pm / Saturday 9 30am-12pm Birnam Library, Station Road, Birnam, DUNKELD PH8 0DS 01738 459709 / birnamlibrary@culturepk org uk

Community News continued

Museum & Heritage Centre

Dunkeld Community Archive

12 The Cross, Dunkeld, PH8 0AN. www.historicdunkeld.org.uk archives@historicdunkeld.org.uk 01350 727786

Fundraising Charity Auction Event –

A Huge Success!

A massive thank you to all who supported us A very enjoyable evening with £4150 raised for our redevelopment/extension project

Extension/Redevelopment Plans

Plans for public consultation will be on display in the gallery of Birnam Arts and in Dunkeld Community Archive Feedback and ideas regarding the design will be much appreciated

Online Exhibitions

This month’s edition - “Tourist Souvenirs of the pastMauchline Ware” can be found at www historicdunkeld org uk

Scottish Council on Archives

We have been chosen by the SCA as a case study “A Year in the life of a Community Archive” Follow our monthly blog at A Year in the Life of a Community Archive - Scottish Council on Archives (scottisharchives org uk)

Date for Your Diary

Wednesday 31st May – Tayside Treasures Online Talk, where many of the Tayside Museum Forum members come together to give a five minute talk on their favourite museum object This year we have chosen an amazing photograph album containing the earliest ever photographs of Dunkeld Booking details

will be advertised on our web site/social media soon

July 28th, 29th and 30th –

Dunkeld Living History Weekend –Stanley Hill Park

Tickets now on sale for the concerts from Birnamarts com

Re-enactment groups

Victorian photography exhibition, including live displays

Concerts in Birnam Arts and the Cathedral

If Anyone Would Like To Be Involved In Any Way

Please Let Us Know

Identification Of Old Photographs / Oral History

One of our volunteers will be at the lunch club with old photograph albums and cine film footage We need your help to identify people, but it’s also lovely when these photographs trigger memories

We also have local residents helping us to record stories and memories, which is hugely important, so if anyone would like to help with this please get in touch

Volunteers

If you have an interest in the local history and have a spare bit of time, please get in touch and ask about volunteering No experience necessary A great way to meet like-minded people and learn about Dunkeld’s past

Young Archaeologist Club (Ages 8 to 16)

Anyone interested in joining please get in touch

Donations

If anyone has any photographs, documents and memorabilia relating to Dunkeld and the surrounding areas we would love to hear from you We are a safe depository of local history for future generations

Plants for the Garden

Rhododendrons, Shrubs, Trees - Herbaceous & Alpines Seasonal Bedding Plants & Vegetable Plants

National Garden Gift Vouchers Sold & Exchanged Tel: 01887 820472

Gatehouse Nursery is situated 2 miles South of Aberfeldy on the Crieff Road (A826)

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

This space could be selling for you!

07967 117149

Sports, Health and Wellbeing 5

AIMS:

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

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

3: To support the building and maintenance of sports facilities including a sports hall

All sports and leisure clubs are invited to join 'The Sports Hub ' Membership is free

Please send details of your club's activities and events to editor@dunkeldandbirnmamnews co uk for inclusion in the hub page of 'The Bridge '

For more details see: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/sport ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Breadalbane & District RDA (SC047991)

By the time this is in print we will have had our first day’s riding of the year It is always lovely to welcome back our riders and this term we also have a number of new riders joining the group A busy start as they all have to be assessed beforehand

Earlier in March we were lucky enough to have our Regional coach Petra Humphrey visit us to give all volunteers (new and old) a refresher training session It was an excellent morning and we are very grateful to her for being so generous with her time

As well as new riders we also have three new ponies who have all passed their assessment tests with flying colours We are so lucky as a group that new ponies always seem to become available to us just as we need them Again it is the generosity of their owners lending them to us on Monday mornings

New riders, new ponies and also new volunteers Three new energetic helpers whose running abilities (amongst other things) are much appreciated !!

Anyone interested in contacting the group or learning a bit more about us can access our web-site breadalbanerda org uk or by email breadalbanerda@gmail com

Or you can contact Helen on 01796 470414 or Vicky on 07786262329 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Dalguise Meditation Group

Celebrate the Spring by coming to a meeting this month and finding out what we do – it could set you up for the rest of the year and beyond Meetings take place every other Tuesday in Dalguise Village Hall from 10 30 to 12 30 In May the meetings are on 9th and 23rd We enjoy sitting and walking meditations, discussions and refreshments There is no charge and we have no religious affiliations

If you aren't able to attend in person, you might be interested in joining our mailing list, to receive interesting and helpful articles about meditation on the intervening Tuesdays If you would like to know more about how meditation helps us to become more aware, more focussed, calm and compassionate, contact faithanstey@gmail com

Connect … Linking Asheville, North Carolina, USA and Dunkeld & Birnam

Connect with Asheville

The Climate Cafe at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College is centered around Lin Orndorf's Issues in Sustainability class and has already covered important topics such as oceans, weather changes, and the impact of climate change on the state of North Carolina The next Cafe on 4/28 will feature mycelium and soil as topics These monthly gatherings are an important step in understanding the local impacts of climate change and how to address them Inspiration for the Climate Cafe came from Dunkeld and Birnam, Scotland, which is Asheville's Sister City In Asheville, we know our Scottish Sister City has been actively working on sustainability initiatives for years, including hosting its own

Climate Cafe The two cities have connected to share resources and knowledge about starting a Climate Cafe on the Asheville campus The Climate Cafe at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College is an important step in addressing the climate crisis and getting students and community members involved in a shared and safe space By providing a space for learning and collaboration, individuals can come together to share ideas and work towards a sustainable future Participants comment on how much they enjoy gathering with students, staff, and faculty from across campus The partnership with Dunkeld and Birnam is an

excellent example of how cities can work together to create positive change, beyond governments and a gridlocked American political system With the continued efforts of the Climate Cafe and other sustainability initiatives, we can work towards a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come

Kellyhttps://www climate cafe/ Kelly McEnany is Chair, Behavioral Sciences at A-B Tech Community College, Asheville

A-B Tech’s Vision: Changing Lives Strengthening Communities

Community News continued

Everyone welcome!!

Community Fayre And Ceilidh

Saturday 3rd June, Birnam Arts

Join us to celebrate National Volunteers Week and our Twinning with Asheville

As part of National Volunteers Week 2023 Dunkeld, Birnam & District Community Development Trust and Friends of Asheville are planning a joint event to celebrate the valuable contribution volunteers make to our communities Volunteering promotes interconnection and can help to make our lives more meaningful Our local area would not be the same without the many volunteers who willingly give their time to offer all the varied groups and organisations that make our community the vibrant, active and welcoming place it is To celebrate and showcase all

the opportunities we have to volunteer we are going to hold a Community Fayre where all our local societies and groups can promote the worthwhile work they do, network with others and (hopefully) recruit more volunteers Beth Beazley will be contacting groups to invite them to take part, so please watch your inboxes and return her calls The Fayre will run from 10am to 4pm at Birnam Arts in the John Kinnaird Hall

The Fayre will be followed by a Community Ceilidh, organised by (local volunteer) Fiona Ritchie, to welcome visitors from our Twinning Sister City –Asheville, North Carolina, USA What better way to celebrate our volunteers and greet our friends from across the pond than with a good dance? Music will be provided by Rohallion Ceilidh Band and doors open at 7 30pm Tickets are free and can be collected from the Box Office in advance or on the night There will be a collection for charity

We hope you can join us to say thanks to our volunteers and help create some great memories for our Friends from Asheville!

For more information please email dbdcdt@gmail com or speak to Beth or Fiona

Far too much Rural Rubbish

The Amulree, Trochry and Strathbraan ‘Rural Rubbish’ volunteers, of which there were so many this year we nearly ran out of verges to be cleared (!), were triumphant this March Volunteers picked up from either side of a 30 mile stretch, from Ladywell all the way over to the Sma Glen, up Glen Quaich and half way over the hill to Aberfeldy

On finding a substantial cache of empty prosecco bottles, one wag suggested we had a better type of litterer? A few other empties turned up a mile or so away Anyone a clue as to why anyone would do this? On the plus side, volunteers reported hearing lapwings and curlews, finding a slow worm sunning itself and wild flowers peeping up On the very serious down side, many drivers were sadly discourteous, litter pickers, who were all wearing high viz jackets having to leap smartly out of the way This was extra worrying as on one occasion these were children A newish hazard are electric cars, creeping up silently of course

The grand total was of 38 bulging black bins bags, all sorts of road signs, large amounts of black white road reflectors, and what amounted in car components to around half a complete car Plus of course, the fizz bottles

A rapid assessment of the volume of rubbish is that it would be the equivalent of a medium sized caravan Which begs the question, how can litter louts be curbed?

An Australian campaign in the 1970s featured huge banners of a pig and piglets rootling around in the rubbish with the slogan ‘Only pigs litter ’ It worked, many others have been tried over the years, and perhaps we need a fresh campaign?

‘Rural Rubbish’ owes a big thanks to Gill MacGregor from Cablea who organised the litter picking for the previous 6 years It took 3 new organisers to fill her solo efforts!

Parish of Auchtergaven Book

It is well over a century since a book has been written and published about the Parish of Auchtergaven but a new book has now been produced by local Bankfoot author and poet Thomas Brown

Tom has been a writer of letters articles and poems since 1973 and continues to do so very much a hobby which he has so enjoyed He has always had in the back of his mind to write a book about his home parish He completed this two years ago but difficulty finding a publisher meant the only alternative was to self publish

Because of limited finance only a few number of books have been produced to begin with but he hopes to have more printed

Copies have been given to A K Bell Library in Perth and also to the National Library of Scotland in Edinburgh

The photo shows Tom presenting his to book to A K Bell Library in Perth

To purchase copies of for more information contact Tom on logie twkb bankfoot@gmail com

JOB OPPORTUNITYSCOTTISH BUS WEEK #LOVEMYBUS

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The events will take place from 22nd - 28th May 2023

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For more information, please contact: Lindsey Reid at: lindsey reid@transform scot or 07775 882698

Rivendell provides high quality care and support for you and your elderly relative Based in Birnam and Dunkeld, our homely environment provides a safe and fun community spirit Our trained staff provide care and support for all your needs 24 hours a day, we are always there

So, if you are looking for social contact, a safe and supportive environment, support with health or medical needs then contact us

Our mission is to provide a home for life, so come and live life with us

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Three Churches in the Community

Thought for the Month

During the last year I have been able to take a turn at doing some shifts in the Three Churches Charity shop in Dunkeld This has been an interesting experience for me, because virtually everyone who walks through the door seems to have an interesting story to tell, be they local or, as are many, visiting this historic community from countries all over the world Over the last while I have also been involved with another interesting community project in Aberfeldy During the winter months one of the churches there has become one of the ‘Warm Welcome Cafes’ providing a social meeting point in response to the cost of living crisis This is just one of a range of community facilities that have offered to take part in a national scheme mostly being run by volunteers At the Aberfeldy project I don’t think any of us were sure what to expect or how well it would go, however it has been such a success that everyone is now wondering how best to maintain the energy that has been built up once the support funding comes to an end as the warmer weather returns

Churches have for centuries been the centre of our communities and their fine stone buildings still form an important presence in our towns and villages The second half of the twentieth century has witnessed a process of accelerating social change resulting in many of these fine buildings passing into alternative uses My own now lengthy life has stretched over this period, and one can feel a bit disorientated by what has happened, but this is not the first time that faith has lived through disruption Interesting then to note that when the first Christians faced persecution, their focus was on building communities rather than monuments I have recently been reading The Benedict Option by Rod Dreher, a book that reacts to these unprecedented societal changes but observed from a mainly American perspective Dreher focuses his response around Benedict of Nursia, the 6th Century founder of the first Benedictine monastic community, a movement that would later expand throughout the world Dreher notes that Benedict’s project was also established at a time of dramatic social change during the time that the Roman Empire was collapsing where everything hitherto understood as civilisation was being destroyed Dreher is not of course proposing that we solve the present crisis by everyone retiring to monasteries but he draws our attention instead to the value of communities and the ways of life that communities can establish I count myself lucky to have been involved over the last year with these two different but successful community projects, both run by local Churches and what has struck me over this time is the warmth of social contact that projects such as these can generate Dreher ’s text has much else to say about secularisation in Western society and if there is room for debate on the details of his analysis, his focus on the foundational role of community does provide us with much to think about Meanwhile writing over a century ago Jacques Maritain had this to say:

Instead of a fortified castle built in the middle of our land, Perhaps we must think of an army of stars thrown into the sky

Well summer is almost with us, and in the meantime this struck me as an interesting and prophetic thought for contemplation and interpretation over the warmer months to come

Roderick Campbell Guion OCDS

Church of Scotland Services

May 7th 11am – Morning Service in the Cathedral

May 14th 11am – Morning Service in the Cathedral for Christian Aid Week Followed by a bread and cheese lunch in the Duchess Anne

May 21st 11am – Morning Service in the Cathedral

2 15pm – Service at Amulree

May 28th 11am – Morning Service in the Cathedral

June 4th 11am – Communion Service in the Cathedral

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

Wednesday Worship

A more informal, relaxed type of worship has started once a month in Little Dunkeld Kirk The first was held back in April and the next two dates are:

May 10th

June 21st both at 7 30pm

There is no set format but the evening includes some worship songs, an open discussion around tables about a Bible passage, and ending with prayer (and then a cup of tea!)

While the aim is to be suitable for younger adults everyone and anyone is welcome If you think this is something you might be interested in please come along and give it a try

Kirk Session

The next regular meeting of the Kirk Session is on May 16th at 7 30pm in the Duchess Anne

The Meeting Place

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

Fellowship Group –

‘Exploring faith and life together ’

Two groups meet fortnightly, on Tuesday evenings and Wednesday mornings

The meetings over the next few weeks will be:

Tuesdays – 2nd , 16th & 30th May at 7pm in the Chanonry

Wednesdays –10th & 24th May at 10 30am in the Chanonry

For this session both groups will be looking at the same subjects and it is possible to move between the two groups All are welcome and it would be good to see the groups grow and perhaps then be able to form more smaller groups in this way More information available from John Ferguson (727585), William Hogg (727053) or Fraser Penny (727249)

Men's Breakfast

Every second Wednesday a group of men meets in the Chanonry to start the day with a cooked breakfast together, discuss events, both local and international, and enjoy each other's company

The up-coming dates are the 10th & 24th May There is no need to book; just turn up and enjoy and all are welcome

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

Youth Group

A group for all P 7s and 1st years meets during term time in the Duchess Anne on Thursday evenings Each night we start at 7pm and finish at 8 30pm More information from Fraser Penny or William Hogg

Messy Events

Messy Music meets after school on Tuesdays in Little Dunkeld Kirk – more details from Hazel Murch (music@dunkeldcathedral org)

Booking Halls

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

Christine McNicoll

Christine McNicoll retired from the post of Session Clerk in the Parish church at the start of the year, having done the job for 10 years

The congregation had a collection to say ‘thank you’ for all the work she has done, not only as Session Clerk but in many other roles as well During the morning service on April 2nd Christine was presented with an inscribed flower vase and a cheque and after the service members of the Kirk Session had a lunch in the Duchess Anne to mark the occasion

Three Churches Charity Shop

High Street Dunkeld

Opening hours:

Tuesday to Saturday 10-4

Donations welcome during opening hours

Find us on Facebook at 3 Churches Charity Shop

Three Churches in the Community

Church Services and Contacts:

Weekly Services

Church of Scotland:

Dunkeld Cathedral at 11am

Every Sunday from Easter Sunday to Remembrance Sunday

Little Dunkeld Kirk at 11am

Every Sunday from the Sunday following Remembrance Sunday to Palm Sunday

Scottish Episcopal Church:

St Mary’s Birnam at 10am Every Sunday

Roman Catholic:

St Columba’s, Mass 6pm Every Saturday

Monthly and Occasional Services

Church of Scotland, Amulree

Third Sunday of the Month 2 15pm

Servite

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

Contact Details:

Church of Scotland:

Congregational Office Bearers:

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

Tel: 01350 727249

e-mail: r fraserpenny@gmail com

Session Clerk: Alison Gillies

The Chanonry, Cathedral Street, Dunkeld PH8 0AW Tel: 07736 423198

e-mail: sessionclerk@dunkeldcathedral org

Treasurer: Mrs Louise Luke

The Chanonry, Cathedral Street, Dunkeld Tel: 07773 604372

e-mail: to be confirmed

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 (Anglican) Church, Birnam

For Holy Week and Easter services see page 12

Sunday Service 10 am - Holy Communion with hymns, music and sermon, followed by refreshments

The church is open daily for visitors, and prayers are said at 5 30pm on Fridays and 9 30am on Saturday

The Servite service is now held monthly on the last Saturday of each month at 2pm and is led ecumenically by members of the three churches in Dunkeld and Birnam It is not a communion service

The Rector:

Reverend Lesley-Ann Craddock

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

Tel: 07903 020509

email: lesley craddock@btinternet com

Part time = Friday, Saturday & Sunday I can also be found dwelling nr LochNess 01456486663

Treasurer:

Penny MacGregor and Charles Cox

Vestry Secretary:

Adrian Freer

Tel: 01821 650536

email: adrianfreer@btinternet com

Organist :

John Walker B Mus, FRCO, LRAM, ARCM

Tel: 01350 727755

(www stmarysbirnam org uk)

St Columba’s

Roman Catholic Church

Catholic Church Priest: Fr Emmanuel Adindu MSP

Tel: 01796 472174

e-mail: stbridespitlochry@dunkelddiocese org uk

Roman Catholic Churches

Dunkeld is a village with a long history of Christian worship and we are pleased to continue that worship at St Columba’s in Birnam

Parish Priest: Fr Emmanuel Adindu MSP (Missionary of St Paul) Tel: 01796 472 174

Email: stbridespitlochry@dunkelddiocese org uk

Serving St Columba’s RC church in Birnam/ Dunkeld, St Bride’s RC church in Pitlochry and Our Lady of Mercy RC church in Aberfeldy

St Bride’s RC Church, Pitlochry

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

Sunday Masses:-

Saturday Vigil 6pm St Columba’s Birnam

Sunday 9 30 am Our Lady of Mercy Aberfeldy

Sunday 11 30 am St Bride’s Pitlochry

Weekday Masses:-

9 30 am Tuesday – Aberfeldy

9 30 am Wednesday, Thursday, Friday – Pitlochry

Holy days of Obligation:-

9 30am Birnam

12 30pm Aberfeldy

6 00pm Pitlochry

During Lent the Stations of the Cross will be observed after weekday mass in Aberfeldy and Pitlochry and before the Vigil Mass in Birnam

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available prior to mass in St Columba’s Please phone Father to arrange it

If there are any parishioners who are housebound and wish the Sacrament of Holy Communion, let Father know and this will be arranged

St Columba’s, St Mary’s Road, Birnam PH8 0BJ

St Bride’s, Rie-Achan Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5AL

Our Lady of Mercy, Home Street, Aberfeldy PH15 2AL Father Emmanuel in

CAPChristians Against Poverty

Five ways your sports community can improve mental health and money troubles

National Sports Sunday, facilitated by Sports Chaplaincy UK, is taking place on Sunday 14 May To mark the event, Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is celebrating our local sports teams and individual sporting athletes whilst raising awareness of the link between mental health and debt

There’s a great community spirit at many sports clubs, but there isn’t always a focus on or opportunities to talk openly about everyday issues that impact us Here are five ways to improve life for people in your sporting community

Open up a conversation with a teammate or someone you know Starting a conversation doesn’t mean that you’re offering to counsel them through all their deepest secrets and fears, it can simply mean checking in with someone and letting them know you are around to chat

Seek free professional help if you are struggling with a particular issue If you or a friend is struggling with their mental health, gambling, alcohol or substance abuse, there's free help available, including Mind, GamCare, AA or UKNA If you have debt or money issues, contact a free, reputable debt advice organisation such as CAP at capscotland org If you’re looking for something in between those two options, try chatting with your sports coach or club chaplain if they have one A coach’s role includes supporting their athletes to receive mental healthcare, and sport chaplains offer a confidential space to chat, down-to-earth with no airs or graces, and no expectations

Consider going on a budgeting course Sport is an amazing thing to be involved in, but it can be costly It's important that we’re able to budget well so we can continue to enjoy our hobby without getting into financial difficulty CAP offers free money coaching in local communities like yours

Make encouragement part of your routine In competitive environments, it’s easy to default to a critical mindset – whether the criticism is aimed towards others or yourself Make a point this week to encourage a teammate, cheer that runner on, or even give a shout-out to a fellow sports person on social media Give yourself the praise you deserve too Small positive encouragements can make a real difference to a person’s mental wellbeing

Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity working with over 580 churches to deliver debt help, budgeting guidance, support to find work, life skills groups and more Visit capscotland org to find out more

Sports Chaplaincy UK (SCUK) is a UK charity supporting over 700 chaplains pastorally supporting the community of sport Visit sportschaplaincy org uk to find out more

Community News continued

Who’s who in the Parish Church?

For the ‘Who’s who in the Parish Church Column’ this month we have asked Jackie MacLean to say a bit about himself Jackie is the church officer or Beadle at the Cathedral

He is also involved with our church Youth group which he describes as great fun and it keeps him young He

admits to finding it also incredibly helpful when having difficulty with his mobile phone which is fairly regular! It comes so naturally to young people

Where did you grow up?

I grew up on the Isle of Raasay, a small island of the west coast, situated between the Isle of Skye and the mainland, but like most islanders I left to go to secondary school on Skye at the age of 12

Looking back, I had a wonderful childhood, growing up in a safe and family orientated community where faith and looking out for one and other was the mainstay of the island

What did you work at?

Prior to retiring in 2018 I worked in Local Government withing the Housing Department concentrating on the Homeless Service This service provided homes for individuals and families considered to be homeless in terms of housing legislation and ensuring appropriate support in place to give them the best chance of sustaining a meaningful home within the community

Prior to this I worked in various roles including 6 years instructing outdoor education, one year of which was spent studying in Telford College Edinburgh

What is your favourite film/book?

I read a lot and find it challenging to identify a favourite book or indeed film, but I would pick out Endurance as a book that I would recommend to anyone looking for a good, true adventure, The books charts Shackleton’s epic journey and escape from the Antarctic and a favourite film would have to be Invictus Another great story of human endeavour and what make us who we are

What is your favourite piece of music?

I love music, particularly traditional and folk music but without a doubt, my favourite piece of music is Louis Armstrong’s, It’s a Beautiful World

What is your favourite place?

(Apart from Here of course!)

This is a difficult one for me as I should probably say the Isle of Raasay but any small island would do for me I love the sea, the wilder the better, it just reminds me of my childhood and lying comfortable and warm in my bed listening to the sea, the wind and unfortunately, the rain

How long have you been involved in the church –here and elsewhere?

I have been involved in church most of my life I was involved in an active church in Larbert when I was young I also have played the organ since I was 16 After the death of our oldest son, Andrew, there was a significant period of my life when I was not involved in church at all My strand of faith was stretched but not broken The support of friends, the Aberfeldy community, the worship in Iona Abbey, the liturgy of the Episcopal Church and the warmth of welcome at Dunkeld along with many individuals have been significant in my spiritual path

What changes have you seen in that time?

I have seen the church change over the years with it becoming a much happier place with both laughter and tears being shared, and opening our arms to all creeds, colours and orientations

What are your hopes for the future (of the Kirk)? There are challenges facing our church here in Dunkeld and big decisions to be made, but we need to strive to attract the young in particular and that may mean we have to change the may and environment we worship in My hope is that we all can embrace that and be aware that the church is in the community and not necessarily the buildings

The church is wherever Gods people are praising

Christian Aid Week this year is the 14th – 20th May

Every year our local Christian Aid committee, drawn from the three churches, organises various events to raise money for Christian Aid Second Hand Bookstall at the Duchess Anne on Friday 19th / Saturday 20th / Saturday 27th from 10am onwards

Donations of books always needed

These can be brought to the Meeting Place at the Duchess Anne on Friday mornings or left in the wooden hut in front of the Duchess Anne The proceeds from The Meeting Place on Friday 19th will be going to Christian Aid Soup and Bread Lunch at the Duchess Anne on Sunday 14th May at 12 30pm Adults £5, Primary School Children, £2

Instead of doing a door to door collection this year you will find an envelope inside this copy of The Bridge We hope that you will be able to put in a donation and return the envelope either to The Birnam Post Office or The Three Churches Charity Shop (Many thanks to both of them for being willing collection points )

Collecting Cans will be dotted around various shops over the week too, so please put in any loose change!

Why Support Christian Aid?

Christian Aid works through local agencies in many parts of the world, identifying good projects which our money can support They offer help regardless of race, nationality, or faith This Christian Aid Week, the focus is on Malawi and the mighty Pigeon Pea - drought-resistant, soil-revitalising, high-protein, low-cost, delicious crop Cyclone Freddy, the longest-lasting tropical cyclone on record (lasting 34 days), has hit Malawi and Mozambique This cyclone is the equivalent of a full North Atlantic hurricane season

Malawi experienced a year ’s worth of rain during the 4-week cyclone The number of people affected by the Tropical Cyclone in Malawi continues to rise Over 508,000 people are displaced and hundreds have lost their lives There's also an increased risk of malaria and cholera in the immediate aftermath Christian Aid’s partners and team in Malawi have been responding to the immediate recovery needs of communities This includes:

• Corn soya blend for porridge for breastfeeding mothers and children under 5 years

• Mosquito nets for families to provide protection against malaria

Providing temporary toilets and bathrooms, water containers and water treatment to help prevent the risk of cholera

• Mobile clinics to help people process the emotional trauma of the cyclone

• Distribution of cash to 1,000 households so that families can purchase their immediate needs Jen’s Story

Jen is a mother of two boys who have gained places in top colleges – but Jen and her husband cannot afford to send them both ‘My heart longs to see our children finish school’ says Jen ‘These dreams are very important to me, because by doing so, I’ll be sure that I am creating a good future for our children ’ Jen works hard to provide for her children but she can barely scratch a living from the soil Soaring costs are crushing her dreams and keeping her family in poverty Now she faces a choice no mother should be forced to make Rising costs mean that Jen can only afford to send one of her sons to college

Jen and her husband have two acres of pigeon peas They are struggling with the effects of the climate crisis The rainfall is unreliable, there are more storms, flooding and strong winds But the pigeon pea is a tough plant able to withstand a lot but to make the most of their crop they need good quality seeds and a fair market to sell their produce – cutting out unscrupulous middlemen

By giving to Christian Aid our gifts can help farmers like Jen and her husband plant better seeds and get a fairer price for their crops, and build happier futures for their children

Please give and help this strong, determined mum and others like her to provide for their families

Your Christian Aid Envelope

We hope that you will be able to make a donation to Christian Aid and return the envelope stuck here to either to The Birnam Post Office or The Three Churches Charity Shop

Many thanks to both of them for being willing collection points

If your envelope has fallen out you can still make a donation into one of our collecting cans dotted around the village

Many thanks

The Kiln Creative

Thursday morning 6 week block 10:30am-1pm Pottery and Workshops available on website

A World Community 15

Join us on Thursday 4th May in Dunkeld and Birnam Co-working at 7pmtalking about circular economy.

Repair Cafe

No meet up in May

Next Repair Cafe

Monday 5th June in the Arts Studio, Birnam Arts

See you then

The field is springing into action

Over the past few winter months, a team of dedicated volunteers has been working away behind the scenes doing all the tasks that need to be done during the winter months This incudes tidying up, trimming hedges, preparing ground for the year ahead as well as harvesting our remaining crops like brussels sprouts, kale, kalettes and leeks for sale at the field stall We are now entering the hungry gap and there will be no more sales from the gate until June

A team has also been working hard planting seeds in the small polytunnel and these are coming on well and when the weather starts warming up we can start planting out the large polytunnel is also ready for spring The winter salad crops are all finished and the ground has been cleared and prepared for the summer crops The new polytunnel has been invaluable over the winter months It has been used as a workspace to build staging etc and has been an invaluable warm and comfortable space for people to enjoy tea and coffee after completing tasks in the field during the cold winter months

The Kitchen Garden has not been ignored and we have nearly everything ready for planting and this year besides the old favourites, we are continuing with some no-dig beds This principle has also been adopted in Plots 8 and 9 and the whole approach has been made easier by ready supply of horse dung locally and a large lorry load of compost from Binn Farm Many thanks are due to all concerned as it all helps improve the soil fertility

The flower garden is already looking good and will be superb this summer All our fruit trees and cages have received special care and attention and are looking good We have also received many visitors over the winter months from similar projects or groups trying to set up a community garden We also had the pleasure of a Channel 5 film crew in March in the field making a film about Dunkeld that should be going out in May on a Sunday evening

This is our busiest time of the year and we have welcomed some new volunteers but, if you would like to join in, you are always welcome to come up and help We are there on Thursday and Saturday mornings from 10am and, in addition, there is also someone there most days We have volunteers of all ages who really enjoy spending time in the field, thank you to you all In addition after our work sessions we have reinstated time for tea, coffee, cake and a catch up chats that are enjoyed by all It is an essential form of communication Have a look at our website www dunkeldfield co uk or our Facebook page @ The Field Dunkeld & Birnam Better still, if you want more information, ring: Dave Amos (01350 727763) or Dave Roberts (01350 728926) or drop us an email: dblandtrust@btinternet com We look forward to seeing you at the field

Himalayan Balsam-pulling Group

As many of you will know, himalayan balsam is a very invasive non-native species which spreads along our water courses, crowding out other natural plants

The local group starts its weekly activities to control the plant on Monday 15 May and will continue into the late Summer

If you would like to help there are several options: You could join the group on a Monday morning from 10:00-11:30, after which we generally go for coffee

You could pick your own favoured spot and have the satisfaction of knowing you are keeping it clear

When you are out for a walk you could pull a few plants when you see them

Because we have been pulling for a number of years, many areas, such as the river bank near the Birnam Oak, or the Community Woodland near the Braan just need a regular check to remove a handful of plants

Last year we concentrated our efforts at the beach on the promontory just past Dunkeld House Hotel, so we hope to see a big improvement there this year

Then there is the serious problem near the Jubilee Bridge Atholl Estates have tried mowing the bracken to make the area easier to access, and last year we received extra help from the Community Pay-back team A good team of regulars there would make a real difference

The plant is very easy to pull up, and we find the act of removing it both therapeutic and addictive!

If you’d like to know more phone Bill or Katharine on 01350 727048

Also keep your eyes out for postings from Climate Café

May at Loch of the Lowes is a wonderful month!

Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre is open 7 days a week, 10 30am-5pm, throughout May - and all the way through to the end of October

Our ospreys returned on 17th March, just six hours apart This was the first time our pair have arrived on the same day Since then, they have set about rearranging and restoring the nest from the damage of winter storms Excitingly, they have 3 eggs in the nest and are settling in for the long incubation Events in May: Optics Fair – Saturday 13th May 10 30am-4pm Come along and browse and try out binoculars, monoculars and scopes from Viking’s wide range An expert from Viking will be here to answer any questions and suggest the best optics for your own, personal use

Q What’s the difference between a little brown bird and a stunning female yellowhammer?

A A good pair of binoculars

Restoring Scotland’s habitats for wildlife while making it accessible and enjoyable for people is a difficult balancing act An excellent project (now 2 years old) is happening locally and managing to balance these goals Lying just north of Perth at Denmarkfield

On Saturday 27th May, 2-2 30pm Ellie Corsie, Denmarkfield Project Manager is giving a fascinating talk about the delights and challenges of Rewilding Denmarkfield, a 90 acre site near Luncarty Ellie and her team are working with the local community and schools to rewild people and the land Booking is essential for this event, please see the Scottish Wildlife Trust website, Things To Do, Events or follow the link Rewilding Denmarkfield | Scottish Wildlife Trust Unfortunately, avian flu continues to wreak havoc across the world and Perthshire is no exception Keeping feeders, water and bird baths clean and washing them in hot soapy water (outside) is the best option at the moment If you can clean the soles of your shoes/boots after walks, this can also prevent cross contamination In May, we hope to have chicks hatching! The Visitor Centre is open 7 days a week, 10 30-5pm and we look

forward to welcoming you

Gardening & Growing Club

Whether you potter with a few pots or garden an acre you are very welcome at the Gardening and Growing club £20 annual membership

Programme of Events:

Sunday 14th May 2pm

Visit to The Old Coach House Gardens, Dunbog, Newburgh, KY14 6JF

Wednesday 14th June 7:30pm

Sharpening Tools Workshop, Euan Camlin Birnam Arts

Wed 12th July 4pm

Visit to Bradystone House Gardens, Murthly

Sat 19th Aug – Annual Show

Sun 14th Oct 2pm

Visit to Drummond Castle Gardens – Guided Tour (1 hour)

Wed 13th Dec 6pm

Christmas Night Out, Atholl Arms Hotel

Wed 29 Nov 7:30pm

Wreath Workshop by Bridget from Gatehouse Nursery, Birnam Arts

Sun 24th Feb 2pm

Visit to Fingask (Andrew Threipland)

Wed 13th March 7:30pm – AGM Birnam Arts

Lifts to any of the meetings/trips away can be arranged on request

Try out the club by coming along to a first meeting for free If you enjoy it then you can join for the year for just £20 For more information contact the secretary Andrea Cox on 07740 982465 acox325@gmail com and follow the Facebook Gardening & Growing Dunkeld and Birnam

Climate Café

Climate change is a pressing issue that affects everyone and everything on the planet It can feel overwhelming, but it also presents an opportunity for creativity, innovation, and collaboration The Climate Cafe is a space where individuals can come together to learn and share ideas about how to address the challenge of climate change The Climate Cafe is an excellent example of how Sister Cities can collaborate and work together to address global challenges Asheville and Dunkeld and Birnam are both committed to sustainability, and this partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration and sharing resources Jess Pepper, a resident of Dunkeld and Birnam and the founding member of the Scottish Climate Café® , has been instrumental in helping the Asheville community get started Her experience in organizing and growing Climate Cafes has provided valuable insights and guidance on how to start a successful initiative The Climate Café at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College is centered around Lin Orndorf's Issues in Sustainability class and has already covered important topics such as oceans, weather changes, and the impact of climate change on the state of North Carolina The next Cafe on 4/28 will feature mycelium and soil as topics These monthly gatherings are an important step in understanding the local impacts of climate change and how to address them Inspiration for the Climate Café® came from Dunkeld and Birnam, Scotland, which is Asheville's Sister City In Asheville, we know our Scottish Sister City has been actively working on sustainability initiatives for years, including hosting its own Climate Cafe The two cities have connected to share resources and knowledge about starting a Climate Cafe on the Asheville campus The Climate Cafe at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College is an important step in addressing the climate crisis and getting students and community members involved in a shared and safe space By providing a space for learning and collaboration, individuals can come together to share ideas and work towards a sustainable future Participants comment on how much they enjoy gathering with students, staff, and faculty from across campus The partnership with Dunkeld and Birnam is an excellent example of how cities can work together to create positive change, beyond governments and a gridlocked American political system With the continued efforts of the Climate Café® and other sustainability initiatives, we can work towards a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come

Photo: Scott Duncan

Community Noticeboard

Craft Fairs Dates

25th to 27th August 4th and 5th November

Thank You

I would like to say a big thank you to all who contributed to my presentation on my retirement from being Session Clerk I would also like to thank Fraser, the Kirk Session and members of the congregation for all their support over the 10 years of my service

Many thanks to you all once again

Christine McNicoll

Amulree HallSupporters 100 Club First draw in May 2023!

Monthly Rolling Local Lottery

Secure your number(s) between 1 – 100 £5 per number (standing order preferred) Two cash prizes per month All profits go towards the upkeep of the ‘Amulree Village Hall’ All welcome to enter

For more details and to secure your number(s); Email: Ahs100club@yahoo com

The Meeting Place

We are open every Friday morning from 10 - 12 in the Duchess Anne for tea, coffee and tasty home baking

Friday 28th April our Coffee Morning will be in aid of Dunkeld and Birnam in Bloom There will be a cake stall Donations welcome

Archive Launches Youtube Channel

Did you go to the musical play about Beatrix Potter at Birnam Arts?

Have you seen Pete Clark’s brand new film about Niel Gow?

Did you hear BBC Gardeners Question Time broadcast from Birnam in 1991?

Did you see all the events at last year ’s Jubilee and Living History Weekend?

Surely you’ve seen the black & white silent movie of Dunkeld & Birnam in the 1950s?

Did you get tickets for the Dunkeld & District Strathspey & Reel Society Concert?

Did you attend the street-theatre production of the Bridge Toll Riots?

If you have answered NO to any of these questions, then you need to head over to the newly-launched Dunkeld Community Archive YouTube Channel where everything and more is waiting for you to browse and enjoy for free

Just go to historicdunkeld org uk and click on the YouTube link or simply scan the QR code below Remember to hit the Subscribe button to get notified when new videos are added

Dunkeld Community Archive: bringing the past into the present and preserving the present for the future

Creative Spring Market & Open Studios

There are many reasons for choosing handmade original items for your home, yourself or as gifts Buying handmade is a conscious decision showing an appreciation for the talented creatives, their skill, and their design know-how, and offers an alternative ecofriendly, sustainable option

The creative talent across Perthshire is easily enjoyed at www perthshire-artisans scot (set up and run by GrowBiz Scotland), featuring 30+ artists working in all genres Whilst online access to handmade creations is wonderful, it’s still fabulous to see the products and meet the artists and makers in person The Creative Spring Market & Open Studios, on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 May at The Perth Creative Exchange, includes artists based in the building and Perthshire Artisans

Connecting with creatives adds to the experience, story and authenticity of a piece should you choose to buy it, or simply know more about how it is made Every item

has its own personality accentuating the charm and individuality of being handmade The artist and maker creates from experience and brings out the best of the materials through their knowledge and designs, which stand the test of time in both style and durability

Supporting local Artisans helps creative talent thrive and compliments their work It also connects local culture to our homes or when sharing as gifts Artists’ work includes cards, prints, candles, jewellery, ceramics, glass, leatherwork, photography and original artworks

The Creative Spring Market & Open Studios are free to visit, 10am-4pm, 20/21 May at Perth Creative Exchange, Stormont Street, Perth, PH1 5NW

Bir nam Library

Opening hours: Thursday: 5pm – 7pm Friday: 12pm – 5pm Saturday: 9 30am – 12pm Birnam Library is situated in the Birnam Arts Centre, Station Road, Birnam, PH8 0DS Tel : 01738 459709

Birnam Library is run by Culture Perth and Kinrossa charitable trust bringing art, culture, books, learning, creative communities and local history and heritage to people across the whole of Perth and Kinross https://www culturepk org uk/

RBS mobile bank visits Dunkeld and Birnam. Thursdays: Dunkeld, The Cross 14.50 pm to 15.20 pm and Birnam, Post Office 15.05 pm to 15.25 pm

Notes from a Councillor 17

Since my last article a great deal seems to have happened The recent change of the clocks bringing Summertime, the countryside and gardens are waking up The sowing of field and garden crops is well under way, I look forward to seeing the countryside change colour as they grow

It was a delight to attend the official opening of the MUGA, along with many others who had been involved in bringing the wonderful community facility from a vision to reality The demand for the use of the facility has been greater than expected To have heard of the recent damage to both the roof and sports pitch area is deeply shocking and disappointing The whole community is suffering because of the thoughtless damage It is hopeful that the damage can be rectified soon

The safety of road users of the A9 is a growing concern The recent line painting refresh and roll out of LED cats eyes has improved the clarity of junctions and changes from dual to single carriageway sections These improvements are welcome but do fall short in satisfying the safety concerns of many in the local communities surrounding the A9 I have received an extremely disappointing response to a letter sent to the recent Transport Minister, Jenny Gilruth MSP where I requested an update on plans to address junction safety in the Dunkeld & Birnam area

To continue with a road theme, the construction of the Cross Tay Road Link is progressing well and still on schedule It has now reached the stage where new carriageway construction has commenced There is likely to be lengthy delays on some occasions over the next four months, this will also affect buses and the running of bus timetables We all look forward to the opening of the finished link early next year!

News from our Community Council

Dunkeld & Birnam Community Council

Community Council Matters

Chris Claydon Dunkeld & Birnam

Community Council

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

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

Of course, if you have the opportunity, then please do chat to any member of the Community Council if you bump into them while out and about Meetings are held monthly at 7pm on the second Monday of the month

Date of next meetings: 9th May / 12th June / 10th July

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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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

Hello fellow citizens of the greatest place to live on earth!

The time has come for me to say goodbye, and this will be my final column for The Bridge after four years on the Community Council

I am, of course, in very good company with 2023 seeing some notable retirements in our community which I have been asked to mention

Stevie, our trusty road sweeper has retired after 35 years on the job

Stevie turned up for work day in, day out, whatever the weather, and he will be sorely missed by many Not only was Stevie a familiar, friendly face but he was a great support over the years to some of the more vulnerable members of our community On behalf of the Community Council, and I’m sure we speak for everybody, we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Stevie for all that he has done, and we hope that the surgical removal of his trolley goes well!

We also say goodbye to Steve from the Co-Op, another well-kent face who always had a friendly word for customers

Steve’s positive attitude and consideration for others will be difficult to replace – he worked tirelessly

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

through COVID and hordes of tourists alike, without ever losing his good humor

And last but not least, I have just heard that Pete The Dentist, as he is fondly known, is hanging up his drill and retiring Dunkeld & Birnam have been extremely lucky to have been blessed with such an excellent dentist Enjoy your well-deserved retirement, Pete

The last thing that I’d like to do as a Community Councilor is to appeal to the members of our community The Community Council really needs your support and I have had to leave at a time when numbers are already low

Being a Community Councillor has been very rewarding, despite its challenges, and I would encourage anyone in our community to sign up for a spell – you don’t have to stay for four years

Finally, I’d like to wish my fellow Community Councillors all the best going forward – it has been a pleasure working with you Toodleoo-the-noo!

Chris

Councillor Claire Bailie McLaren

May ‘Stick on the Fridge Page’

Local Organisations - Contact Details

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

Phone 01350+

Organsiations - General

3 Churches Charity Shop 07751 593421 Anne Graham

Alcoholics Anonymous (Helpline) 0800 917 7650

Chapter House Museum 727786 Ruth Brown (in Dunkeld Cathedral, open 7 days) archive@historicdunkeld org uk

Dunkeld & Birnam Historical Society 07584 434253 Dave Roberts daveroberts132@btinternet c om

Dunkeld & Birnam in Bloom 727288 Linda Speirs lindaladyhill@yahoo co uk

Dunkeld & Birnam Men s Shed 07777 696953 Jackie MacLean dbmensshed@outlook com

Dunkeld Community Archive 727786 Ruth Brown (Mon – Fri, 10am – 3pm) archive@historicdunkeld org uk

Friends of the Cathedral 728697 John Gray friends@dunkkeldcathedral org

Gardening and Growing Club (Horti) 07740 982465 Andrea Cox acox325@gmail com

National Trust for Scotland 07548 757060 Karen Clark kclark@nts org uk

Royal British Legion 728811 Kevin Forsyth Kevforsyth@hotmail com RVS 01738 633975 Geoff Bird

(Supporting You At Home and perthsupportingyou@royalvoluntaryservice org uk Home Library Service)

SWRI 723203 / 07881 531565 Evelyn Menzies Evelynhmenzies@gmail com

SWRI Amulree 723203 Jane Anderson The Field 07584 434253 Dave Roberts dblandtrust@btinternet com

The Orchard 727048 Katharine Melville kmelville@ogoroad com

The Meeting Place (Fri, DA) 07474 183042 Margaret Scott Tourist Association 723297 Adrian Blundell

Community Learning & Development

PKC CLD Staff 01738 459701 Cat Gordon/Alison May/ Robin Crawford dunkeldcomlearn@pkc gov uk U3A 07714 103309 Sandra Cairncross smcairnx@hotmail com

Sport

Butterstone Hill & Trail Group 07761 673231 Adrian Davis wildoutdoorscotland@gmail com

Clan Bowmen (Field Archery) 727911 / 07786 073686 Arthur Robert Hewines bobhewines@hotmail com

Dunkeld & Birnam Angling Association secretary@dbaa co uk Billy Davidson

Dunkeld & Birnam Bowling Club 07977 911068 Gael Shaw Gaelshaw@btinternet com

Dunkeld & Birnam Golf Club 727524 Jackie MacLean (Visitors Welcome) dunkeld@outlook com

Dunkeld & Birnam Sports 07970 778525 Sally Robertson

Leisure Hub dbsportsleisurehub@gmail com

Dunkeld & Birnam Tennis Club 07731 631563 Morna Mitchell mornaamitchell59@gmail com

Glendelvine/Spittalfield Cricket Club 07816 982140 Andrew Ross (all ages)

Grass Track & Field Group 07736 724113 James Jarvis

Highland Perthshire Clay Shooting Club 07821940252 Ted Carr tedcarr@waitrose com

Leisure Group (Sports Hall Project) 727361 Alasdair Wylie awylie2002@yahoo co uk

Over 35’s Rugby 07738 006738 Iain Gordon iainhg@aol com

Running Club (8 – 12 year old,) 07761 673231 Adrian Davis (Mondays at 3 30pm) wildoutdoorscotland@gmail com

Swimming & Alexander Technique 07778 778007 Jan Osband jmosband@gmail com

Tai Chi 07551 029076 John Connelly dachutaichi@gmail com

Tayside Orienteers 727048 Bill Melville billmelville@ogoroad com Yoga 728783 Sue Atkinson atkinsue93@yahoo co uk

Music & Arts

BIPS 07872 505516 Melanie Brockway mbroc02@hotmail com

Birnam Arts 727674 Manager admin@birnamarts com arts@birnamarts com

Birnam Arts Ballet (Mon – Thurs, Emma Gray age 4 upwards & adults) ballet@birnamarts com Cathedral Tower Bell Ringers 742218 Iona Connor lowesfarm@hotmail com

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

Film Society 727740 Tom Barnard tom barnard@btinternet com

Just Singin’, 7 30pm Weds (BA) 07765 405203 Katie Dalgliesh www justsingin co uk

Annual Events Art Exhibition dunkeldart@aol com Margaret Scott Arts & Crafts Fair (Apr, Aug & Nov) 727968 / 07743 400938 Na’an Meikleour poppyseednaan@yahoo com

Christian Aid Week 727867 Jim McCafferty

Highland Games (August) 07880 588433 Duncan Sim duncan sim@hotmail com

Niel Gow Festival 07766 406313 Liam Manion (weekend closest to 22 March) LManion41@gmail com

For Children Baby & Toddler Group 07546 128902 Lesley Singers

Caputh Baby & Toddler Group 07722 183546 Catherine Thomson (Tues 9 30 – 11 30am)

Nursery at Royal School of Dunkeld 01738 454470 Royal School of Dunkeld Sunday School – Church of Scotland 727249 Fraser Penny

For Younger People Girlguiding Dunkeld (Rainbows, 07770 324173 Trix Stephen Brownies, Guides, Rangers) (District Commissioner)

Messy Church (last Sunday in month) 727249 Fraser Penny

The Black Watch Army Cadets 07429 113439 2nd Lt Craig Ross 1989ros@armymail mod uk

Youth Group (for P7s & 1st years, 727249 Fraser Penny Thurs 7 – 8 30pm)

For Older People

Senior Citizens

727311 Ronalda Pattullo

Servite 07595 651446 Ivan Russell (Working Hours, Mon, Wed, Friday ivan russell@caledoniaha co uk

1 – 4pm; Tues, Thurs 8 30am – 12 noon)

Hall Bookings

Local Organisations - Continued

Amulree Village Hall

07749 914906 Isabel Brady northamulree@btinternet com

Birnam Arts 727674 Manager

Caputh Hall 07832 235607 Lorna Lyle

Chanonry 07808 703641 Jill McCrory chanonrydunkeld@gmail com

Dalguise Village Hall 07746 392268 Anne Cameron annedunkeld@gmail com

Duchess Anne 07808 703641 Jill McCrory chanonrydunkeld@gmail com

Health Community & Services

Birnam Library (Thu 5 – 7pm, Fri 01738 459709 Margaret Quigley 12 – 5pm, Sat 9 30am – 12 noon) birnamlibrary@culturepk org uk

Chemist (Dunkeld) 727210 Davidsons

Chemist (on Sunday) 01738 494610 Asda, Dunkeld Rd, Perth

Doctors 727269 Craigvinean Surgery

Dunkeld & Birnam Community Lachlan MacEwan Council dbcc chair@gmail com

Infinity Blu Dental Care(Birnam & Pitlochry) 729198 / 01796 470001

PKC Environmental Services 01738 476476

PKC Roads Dept 01738 475000

Registrar 01738 475121 3/5 High St, Perth perth-registrars@pkc gov uk

Tayside Police (non-emergency) 101

Dates for your Diary

BA = Birnam Arts Centre

DA = Duchess Anne Hall, The Cross, Dunkeld

6-28 Safety Mapping Exhibition Birnam Arts 11 Lulo Reinhardt & Yuliya Lonskaya Gypsy meets Classical 7 30pm Ticket £14 + booking fee Birnam Arts

13 Singing and Rainbows – In the Jungle with Collen and Julia 10 15am 0 – 2yrs 11 30am 2 – 4yrs Tickets £10 13 Loch of the Lowes Optics Fair 10 30am-4pm 13 Safety Mapping Workshop 1-3pm (drop-in) Birnam Arts Gallery

14-20 Christian Aid Week

19-20 Second Hand Bookstall at the Duchess Anne in aid of Christian Aid 10am onwards

14 Gardening & Growing Club : Visit to The Old Coach House Gardens, Dunbog, Newburgh 2pm

17 Rich Hall Shot From Cannons 8pm Tickets £17 + booking fee Age 14 + 27 Second Hand Bookstall at the Duchess Anne in aid of Christian Aid 10am onwards

27 Community Market in aid of Santa Day Outside Birnam Hotel 11-3pm

27 Loch of the Lowes talk by Ellie Corsie Denmarkfield Project Manager ‘Rewilding’ 2pm

31 Tayside Treasures Online Talk featuring photograph album containing the earliest ever photographs of Dunkeld Booking details from Archives

3 Community Fayre 10 – 4pm Birnam Arts dbdcdt@gmail com

Community Ceilidh welcoming visitors from our Twinning Sister City –Asheville, North Carolina, USA Music by Rohallion Ceilidh Band 7 30pm Free Birnam Arts dbdcdt@gmail com

5 Repair Cafe in the Arts Studio, Birnam Arts See you then 14 Gardening & Growing Club Sharpening Tools Workshop, Euan Camlin 7:30pm Birnam Arts

17 Just Singin’! 20th Anniversary Concert in the BA

For dates further ahead see: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk

PETS

Lost and Found

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

Painter and Decorator

• Wall Murals • Marbling • • Wood Grain Effects • Not VAT registered

too

Stays

Elizabeth & Keith Lumsden 01350 728849

E-mail: bizzabooks@gmail.com

PAINTING & DECORATING

01738

ATHOLL STREET 01350 727556

Proprietor: Alasdair Wylie

If you have lost or found a dog, cat or other pet FACEBOOK: Missing Pets, Perth and Kinross 07432 368792 info@dogfriendlyperthshire.co.uk DUNKELD BUILDERS LTD