The Bridge May 2026

FREE EDITION 426 MAY 2026

Local News, Events and Information

COMMUNITY CREATIVITY

This Issue: Editorial

2

Birnam Arts

3

in Full Flow THE MENS SHED

Neil Graham of the Men’s Shed with a newly donated lathe and milling machine, opening up new possibilities for metalwork.

Kammerphilharmonie Europa Enjoy an evening full of versatile sounds and complex emotions. See p3

4-5

Birnam Arts

6

Sports Hub

7-8

Classified

8

Nature & Climate

9

Classified

10-11

3 Churches in the Community

12-13

THE SILVERY TAY

Classified

15-16

The Silvery Tay inspiring Elizabeth Kostova, our Writer in Residence from Asheville.

Nature & Climate

17-18

Community Noticeboard

See page 9

See page 3

Classified

Learning & Community History

GARDEN OPENING

18 19-20

A garden to inspire: Jan Silburn’s garden opens on 17 May, welcoming visitors and raising funds for Love Oliver.

The Moore House Group - Dunkeld Campus Strengthens Outdoor Learning Through Partnership with Fordie Estate.

See p20

See page 17

HOME GROWN

See page 9

Volunteers at The Field crafting willow obelisks grown on site, ready to support this season’s flowers.

COMMUNITY CONSULTATION EVENT COMMUNITY-LED AFFORDABLE HOMES AT BIRNAM PARK “HAVE YOUR SAY AND SHAPE WHAT COMES NEXT”

WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2026 - BIRNAM ARTS Session 1 @ 15:30 - 17:00 / Session 2 @ 18:00 - 19:30

Please attend which session suits you best and arrive in time for a cup of tea and a prompt start

www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk

Community Development

21

Notes from a Councillor 22 News for our Community Council

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Stick on the Fridge

23

Classified

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YOU CAN ALSO READ THE BRIDGE ON-LINE! Scan here or go to www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk Copy Dates for the Next Issue: Friday 15th May for publication Friday 29th April

Editorial The Tay Meet the Team EDITOR

Sally Robertson Please e-mail your article to Sally at: editor@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk or post to: The Bridge Dunkeld & Birnam Community Co-Working Space Lagmhor, Dunkeld PH8 0AD ADVERTISING MANAGER

Kirsty Gowans

Please e-mail your advertising to Kirsty at: adverts@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk Advertising rates from £8.07 per month.

Contact Kirsty for details.

Tel: 07967 117149 The Bridge, edited by volunteers for the people of Dunkeld, Birnam and the surrounding villages since 1974.

Thank you for all your support.

Dunkeld & Birnam, The Bridge The Bridge Newsletter is produced and distributed by Dunkeld and Birnam News CIC a Community Interest Company Registered in Scotland SC813544

I have a lifetime ambition to walk the River Tay from source to sea. Not in one heroic push—but in sections, over time, gathering it in piece by piece.

Years ago, I was inspired by John Anderson’s walk from sea to source (an interesting question in itself—which way would you go?), and ever since I’ve had it in mind to join up all the fragments I’ve already explored.

Some of those fragments have come courtesy of my husband’s fishing habit—many a lunchtime picnic has been enjoyed on different beats along the river.

If you know them, you’ll recognise that slightly surreal moment—rather like looking at the London Underground map—when you glance across the water and think, “Is that really the next beat along?” or “Is that Vic’s house over there?”—despite the fact it took you a completely different route (and several wrong turns) to get there.

I’ve kayaked half of Loch Tay, walked miles of its banks, and still feel I’ve barely begun. At this rate, I should complete the full walk sometime in my eighties.

Closer to home, I love standing on the bridge—our bridge—watching the ever-changing patterns of the water. Or sitting on the grass nearby, watching the ducks drift past as the light shifts across the current.

The Tay is never the same twice. It’s constant and changing all at once.

Dunkeld owes its very existence to this river—a natural crossing point that shaped the settlement, from Water Wynd to the old ferry at East Ferry.

Bridges came and went, often claimed by floods, until Thomas Telford came along and built the one

we still rely on today—strong enough to withstand both spate and logging lorries (no small feat).

The Tay isn’t just landscape—it’s memory, movement, livelihood, and inspiration.

That sense of inspiration runs through this month’s issue. At Birnam Arts, our new Spring Artist-inResidence, Caterina McEvoy, begins work on Echoes of the Tay (see page 6), exploring the river through sound, clay and natural materials—and inviting contributions from the community.

We also say a warm thank you to Elizabeth Kostova, our recent writer-in-residence from Asheville, whose reflections on two months immersed in life along the Tay you can read on page Y. We loved having her here and wish her all the very best as she returns to the United States.

The Tay belongs to all of us, in different ways.

Whether you walk it, fish it, paddle it, paint it—or simply sit beside it—it has a way of drawing you in.

It is part of us for the journey of life here—flowing through our days, shaped by those who came before us, and continuing long after we are gone.

Sal Robertson

A9 Community Group AGM Monday 8th June at the Guide Hall 7.30pm

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 and our AGM will be on Monday 8th June at the Guide Hall, 7.30pm.

Please note, not our usual last Thurs in the month.

Dualling of Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing: Transport Scotland have notified – though we found out about it through the press first ! - that given the number and nature of outstanding objections to the Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing scheme, they have requested a Public Local Inquiry (PLI) to consider objections received and not withdrawn. The arrangements for a PLI are a matter for the Scottish Government Planning and Environmental Appeals Division (DPEA) and an appointed Independent Reporter who will oversee the process. Confirmation of arrangements will be made by the DPEA, independently from the Transport Scotland A9 dualling project team.

TS also advised that it is continuing to work “ to properly consider all matters raised by objectors and to resolve these where possible”.

So, although they have referred the case to DPEA, they should be continuing to engage with any objectors who are expecting replies or who have further questions or comments for them.

If you need clarification or wish to comment on any aspect of the TS reply to you, write to A9dualling@jacobs.com Here is a link to the DPEA webpage for this case www.dpea.scotland.gov.uk/CaseDetails.aspx?ID=128570 Thanks again to those of you who have copied your submission/objection correspondence with TS to me - all welcome!

Tony Topping has replaced Stuart Moffat as TS Project Manager for the Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing dualling scheme. We hope that he will have attended our 30th April meeting.

Dualling of Tay Crossing to Ballinluig: Stuart Moffat has moved to this scheme for TS. We still await information about a contractor drop-in event for Dunkeld and Birnam.

Angela Newlands, Wills Community Liaison Manager can be contacted at AngelaNewlands@willsbros.com 01698 479230 or enquiries.A9TC2B@willsbros.com 0800 011 4255. The details of the dualling design for Tay Crossing to Ballinluig are at: www.transport.gov.scot/projects/a9-dualling-perth-to-inverness/a9-tay-crossing-to-ballinluig/project-details/ As always you can contact us at email: dunkeldA9workinggroup@gmail.com, also to have your details added (or removed from) our mailing list; or just phone me!

Alasdair Wylie Coordinator 07927 175121 awylie2002@yahoo.co.uk For our reports on “The Bridge” website: www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk/

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Arts News Birnam Arts Open 7 Days: Café: 10.00-16.00 | Shop: 10.30-15.30 Booking Fees apply to all events. Birnamarts.com / 01350 727674

Concerts & Events • Café • Shop • Gallery • Beatrix Potter Station Road, Birnam PH8 0DS 01350 727 674 Tickets and details: www.birnamarts.com

Elizabeth Kostova in Residence: The Story Concludes

FRAGILE: MOTHS, LIFE SYSTEMS & US

Jan Hendry Continues until Sun 3 May 9:30 - 17:00 DAILY | Gallery Artist Jan Hendry translates her moth research into visual and material forms, poetically rendering the ecological narratives of her research into visual treasures.

TALISK

Thu 14 May 8pm-10.30pm. £22 Never afraid to push musical boundaries, there’s captivating a crowd, and then there’s Talisk.

KAMMERPHILHARMONIE EUROPA Fri 15 May 8pm-10pm. £23/£15 (under 26)

Enjoy an evening full of versatile sounds and complex emotions with some of the most talented musicians from across Europe.

MACRAME PLANT HANGER WORKSHOP Thu 21 May 10.30am-1pm

Join us for a fun and relaxing macramé workshop, whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned crafter.

WARM SPACES: FREE FILM

A CHORUS LINE - Tues 26th May 2pm.

Lunch 1pm Warm Spaces Free Film and a complimentary light lunch at 1pm for the first 15 people to arrive is back… no booking required!

GNOSS

Sat 30th May 8pm-10pm “Gnoss are one of those rare birds in folk: a group you can name after hearing their first notes.” – Folk Radio UK

Dunkeld Cathedral Art Exhibition Registration for the Dunkeld Cathedral Art Exhibition is now open at http://www.dunkeldartexhibition.com.

Artists may enter up to three pieces of work, giving details along with an image of each piece. Work must be brought to The Duchess Anne in Dunkeld on Sunday or Monday 19th/20th July, ready to hang where appropriate and a £10 administration fee is due to be paid at this time.

The Exhibition will run from Saturday 25th July to Saturday 29th August with a Preview Evening on Friday 24th from 6-8pm. If you are in the area at that time and interested, please do call in and see the Exhibition.

For further details contact Dunkeldart@aol.com See website for workshops and more: Birnamarts.com / 01350 727674 * Denotes Booking Fee

What a wonderful experience it has been! My visit from Dunkeld and Birnam’s Sister City of Asheville, North Carolina has come to an end. My stay covered most of two months and took as its theme the natural world around the Tay— “A River of Words.” I had the pleasure of meeting and talking with dozens of town residents and seeing Perthshire transition from late winter into spring. As I walked the Tay paths and made new friends, I was grateful for warm connections in a season of war and division, including the sowing of chaos by the U.S. government.

Most recently, I spent a lovely afternoon at Glendelvine Primary School. The students wrote a poem with me about the school’s upcoming 100th anniversary. Together we imagined what the children would have liked to ask the entering first class in 1927, and what they wanted to tell those long-ago pupils about the Glendelvine School of today.

I’ve run writing workshops for adults at the Dunkeld Community Archive. One workshop took inspiration from old photographs of life on the Tay. Another focused around a guided tour of Dunkeld Cross, Water Wynd, and the cathedral, and another used archival artifacts as the basis of pieces of short fiction.

Along the way, I continued silent reading evenings at the Victorian Reading Room, next to Birnam Library. I was a guest at a local book club meeting, I attended Just Singin’ rehearsals at BA, and the Easter service at the cathedral. I also enjoyed work sessions in the company of Dunkeld and Birnam writers. With the help of new friends, I walked woodland paths, read about the river, explored Pitlochry, Stanley Mills, Blair Castle, Aberfeldy, Loch Tummel, and other Tay-related local sites--and visited with residents of Dunkeld and Birnam. I spent a morning at the impressive Corbenic Camphill Community and walking its beautiful Poetry Path.

Highlights of my visit include the incredible Niel Gow Festival concerts, and helping Climate Café host a special guest, Asheville toxicologist and environmental chemist Dr. John Brock. Dr. Brock inspired lively discussion about the geologically recent advent of humans, the threat of climate change, and environmental toxicology.

I was pleased to see young people among our audience and hear their excellent questions. In addition, the Birnam Reader Bookshop generously hosted Edinburgh poet and naturalist James Appleby for a reading from his new book, and the Birnam Arts Centre held a community farewell evening to celebrate the residency—special thanks to fellow writers Fiona Valpy and Jane Archer for their participation! The evening also featured poems about the river, written by Royal School of Dunkeld students.

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Arts News Dunkeld & Birnam Traditional Youth Music Group

to come along and join in with our musical adventures.

Free guitar, whistle, fiddle and accordion lessons available.

Junior trad band (P5-S2) - 6:30-7:30pm

If you would like to learn to play, or take up a second instrument, we run classes for whistle, guitar, fiddle and accordion with a focus on learning traditional Scottish music.

Classes, led by our experienced and professional trad musicians, are in small groups lasting half an hour. They’re completely free and we provide instruments, without cost, for our members to take home and use as their own. Suitable for P5 - S6.

If you’d like to join one of our bands and can already play at least a little, they are suitable for most instruments. We welcome accordion, string, wind and brass players, guitarists, pianists, percussionists, and more

All classes and bands run on Mondays during term time based at Birnam Arts.

Half-hour group lessons - 4-6pm Senior trad band (S3-S6) - 7:30-8:30pm We rely entirely on funding and donations to keep our group accessible to all and, as always, our thanks go to SSE Renewables, National Lottery, Gordon Duncan Memorial Trust, Basil Death Trust, Scops Arts Trust, The Lang Foundation, Hugh Fraser Foundation and Enchanted Forest for their funding, and to all of the local residents and groups who have generously donated support, money and instruments.

Email: dbtradgroup@gmail.com or call 07958 324 766 for more info. facebook.com/dbtradgroup instagram.com/dbtradgroup

Just Singin’

Community Choir, Birnam We are a friendly and very informal singing group which meets at 7.30 p.m. on Wednesday evenings at Birnam Arts.

We are looking forward to expanding our singing experience on the 6th and 13th May when we welcome a tutor new to our group, Nat Chalamanda.

The remainder of the term will be led by the beautiful voice of Scottish folk artist Hannah Rarity.

Please have a look at our website for further details (just singin.co.uk). Or, better still, come along and join in with us for an evening. Everyone is warmly welcomed.

Birnam Arts Update As we come to the end of our review period, we would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported Birnam Arts over the past year. Your encouragement, patience and commitment have meant a great deal as we’ve worked through a challenging but important time for the organisation.

We would also like to offer our sincere thanks to Sarah Yearsley, Ross Ashwork, and Pat Fairweather, who stepped down as trustees at the AGM in April. Each has given significant time, care and expertise to Birnam Arts, and we are very grateful for their contribution.

At the same time, we are pleased to welcome Cynthia Ellia, who joined the Board at the

AGM, and to formally acknowledge Kevin Bazely, who came on board earlier in the year. We look forward to working with them as we move into the next phase.

We are now entering a six-month transition period, focused on continuing to stabilise the organisation and implementing key changes.

This work is being led by an interim Transition Management Team, with a shared leadership approach across Sally Robertson, Johannah Randall, and Ginger Ramsden, who together are covering the responsibilities of a single full-time leadership role.

Looking ahead, we’re keen to strengthen how we communicate and connect with you—our

local community, who are at the heart of everything we do. From the June edition of The Bridge, you’ll see a new regular Birnam Arts section, designed to share more about what’s happening and the many ways you can get involved and support the organisation.

Whether it’s coming in for coffee, lunch or a drink at the bar, attending a concert, taking part in visual arts, celebrating a wedding, or browsing in the shop—every visit and every bit of support helps sustain Birnam Arts as a vital community resource.

Once again, thank you for being part of the journey.

Spring Artist in Residence at Birnam Arts Congratulations to Caterina McEvoy who has been awarded our Spring Artist-in-Residence (AiR) funded by Creative Scotland. Caterina is a composer, sound artist, musician and sound designer working between Yorkshire and her native Scotland. Her practice explores listening, place and immersive storytelling through sound, combining environmental field recordings, electronic textures and acoustic instrumentation.

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Working across sound, performance and visual art contexts, she collaborates with filmmakers, writers, dancers and visual artists to develop interdisciplinary projects responding to landscape, narrative and material For this project at Birnam Arts, Caterina will support a focused research phase for ‘Echos of the Tay’ a future exhibition at Birnam Arts, collaborating with ceramic artists Susie Johnston and Susie Rose Dalton to create new work responding to the River Tay and its surrounding landscape. Through the interplay of sound, clay and natural materials, the project explores the textures, rhythms and ecological presence of the river, reflecting on how environments are experienced, remembered and shared through both sonic and visual forms.

We can’t wait to see how Caterina responds to spending time at Birnam Arts.

The artists would love to hear any thoughts, feelings, memories, or hopes you have in connection to the River Tay. You can share these in writing, by drawing, by audio recording, or another way that works for you - please email us so we can help make it a reality. You can help Echoes of the Tay research by responding on our website; WHAT DOES THE RIVER MEAN TO YOU? Also, an “Echoes of the Tay” mailbox has been set up in the Birnam Arts Cafe, complete with blank postcards for expressing your thoughts about the river.

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Sports, Health and Wellbeing 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.’

Dunkeld and Birnam Sports and Leisure Hub Including: Multi Use Games Area (MUGA), Tennis and Bowling The Sports Hub (formerly the Rec Club) has overall responsibility for the clubhouse, tennis courts and bowling green and the Covered MUGA. We are a membership organisation and although people can pay per play, we are very keen to encourage locals to join as members at the very reasonable annual fee- you can decide to join just the MUGA or any combination of the clubs. The membership year runs from April but people can join any time during the year.

Visithttps://clubspark.lta.org.uk/ DunkeldandBirnamSportsandLeisureHub/ Membership/Join or Contact dbsportsleisurehub@gmail.com at any time for further information.

Booking for the tennis courts and MUGA can be done online at: https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/ DunkeldandBirnamSportsandLeisureHub

Dalguise Meditation Group Do you have to be fit to join a gym? Of course not. And you don’t have to be already calm, focussed and full of lovingkindness to begin to meditate. Quite the reverse, in fact: Calm, focus, and compassion are some of the qualities that a meditation practice can help you to develop.

Whether you are completely new to meditation, or have an established practice, you are welcome to join our meetings. We meet on the first and third Tuesdays of every month, from 10.30 to 12.30 in Dalguise Village Hall. May meetings are on Tuesdays the 5th and 19th.

We enjoy sitting and walking meditations, discussions, and refreshments. There are no charges, no formalities, and no religious affiliations – what we do is decided among our members. But, always, the intention is to develop awareness, clarity, and concern for others.

If you aren’t able to attend in person, you might be interested in going on our mailing list. Members receive thought-provoking and helpful compilations about meditation and mindful living, in the weeks between live meetings. If you would like to know more about our meetings or about meditation in general, please do contact faithanstey@gmail.com

Breadalbane & District Riding for the Disabled (SCO47991)

April continued to be busy for the coaches and volunteers preparing for the new term. Five attended an excellent training session at RDA Kinfauns, which focused on supporting the fitness and wellbeing of horses and ponies with deceptively simple physiotherapy techniques.

Assessing the health and suitability of a horse for the special requirements of RDA is vital to

ensure the best welfare for the hardworking equines we are so dependent on.

Our riders start back on 27th April – news of their progress to follow next month. Our RDA group liaises closely with the schools in Highland Perthshire for the selection of pupils to have the opportunity to benefit from the riding sessions and time spent with the ponies.

Volunteers are an essential part of RDA and without them we cannot operate. New volunteers are needed to ensure the long-term survival of the group. Knowledge of ponies or riding is not essential, just a willingness to learn. Do get in touch by contacting Helen at breadalbanerda@gmail.com

And please support us at the Thrift Shop 6th to 9th May!

Food Share Foodshare continues, with about 30 volunteers, who collect the food from the Co-op every evening and from Livvi’s Little Lunchbox in the afternoons, and others who check the community larders outside the Duchess Anne in Dunkeld and St. Mary’s in Birnam. We’re grateful to everyone who helps to reduce food waste in our community, by sharing surplus produce from gardens and donating spare food.

If you have spare seedlings or small plants, we’re happy for you to leave them for others to

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Sports, Health and Wellbeing share. Everyone is welcome to help themselves from the tables and fridges.

If you feel you can help us, please contact Jan Silburn, email j.silburn @btinternet.com

Food Bank If you need help with food please contact our confidential links- 01350 700018 or email PH8foodbank@gmail.com.

Donations are collected at the Co-op for the food bank.

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AGM of D and B Leisure Group The AGM of the Leisure Group (Sports Hall Project) will be held at the Co-Working Space on Tuesday 12th May at 730pm.

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Scan the QR code or visit www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk/contactus to view our 2026 advertising rates!

your path to greater health Dunkeld Co-Working Space FRIDAYS : 8:30AM - 5:30PM

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Sit- in & Take-away

Hours: Mon to Sat 9:30am – 4pm Sun: 10am to 4pm

Birnam Oak Café, nestled in the heart of Birnam, the gateway to the Highlands. A short walk from Dunkeld & Birnam station, and with the Beatrix Potter Garden, the Birnam Oak Tree and the beautiful River Tay only a few minutes away by foot.

All our dishes and prepared fresh to order. We’re a small, friendly team who really care about what we do, .

Pop in to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the tunes, the coffee, the food & the craic!

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Breakfast: Traditional & Workers breakfasts, filled croissants, Dunkeld smoked salmon with Rotmell regenerative farmed eggs, creamy porridge, home-made pancakes, breakfast rolls…every morning until 12 & all day on a Sunday!

Lunch: Home-made soups & quiche, baked potatoes, club sandwiches, toasties, wraps, paninis, sandwiches, mixed cheese & meat boards, veggie boards & kids funky lunchboxes.

Coffee: We only serve Glen Lyon Coffee to ensure you experience the best in coffee making & tasting.

Tea: Loose-leaf tea served in tea-pots & with our beautiful mix of donated Bone China. Real tea, real teacups!!

Treats: Delicious selection of cakes/traybakes, cheesecake, apple pie, crumble, scones & pastries…we like to change it up all the time and always try to cater for various dietary requirements Wine: Fantastic collection of wine from around the globe for both off-sales and on-sales….come & enjoy a glass of wine/cheese/nibbles with friends in The Nest, our relaxing sofa & comfy chair zone.

Antipasti: Deli counter filled with a lovely choice of cheeses, meats, olives, sundried tomatoes, artichokes.

Gifts: A lovely selection of pocket-sized gifts, cards and accessories.

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Evening Tapas: Will return from the 1st week in June on a Thursday, Friday, Saturday initially – phone to book!

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Contact us to discuss your catering requirements. Ashleigh makes all the amazing food, bursting with flavour.

Jane does what Ashleigh tells her to do….it works really well !

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The Birnam Arts Centre North Car Park Toilets Dunkeld Brodies Sawmill Inver The Community Telephone Box, Butterstone The Community Telephone Box, Willowbank,Birnam Amulree Village Hall Caputh Village Hall Dalguise Village Hall BASC office Trochry Auchnacloich Farm, Amulree Dunkeld and Birnam Golf Club Office Wall, Erigmore Holiday Park Davidson’s Chemist Dunkeld Inver Caravan Park Sports and Recreation Hub All these defibrillators are located externally and give 24 access Contact shoetrees@btinternet.com

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Nature and Climate Men’s Shed

The Dunkeld & Birnam Men’s Shed is now established at Unit 5, Birnam Industrial Estate, Station Road, Birnam. Regular meetings are held each Tuesday afternoon between 1-5 p.m. For those to who work through the day, the Shed’s opening hours can be extended from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday by prior arrangement. Should there be sufficient demand, we would consider opening on another day.

A lot of work has been undertaken in the bare shell we’ve taken over, and we now have a partitioned off social/meeting area with a small kitchenette as well as the main workshop area.

New and pre-owned tools and equipment have been acquired. We are overwhelmed by the generosity of other Men’s Sheds and members of the public who have donated us items.

Club Chairman, Neil Graham, proudly pu‫﬙‬ing the final polishing touches to a lathe and milling machine that now gives us a metal working capability for those keen to learn.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Grant Paulin of Meikle Fardle Farm for this

A number of restoration projects have been started within the community with more to follow. The Shed would like to acknowledge a kind donation of timber from Iain Gordon of The Perthshire Timber Company which has allowed us to do some of this.

Last December we visited two helicopter refurbishment units at Aberdeen Airport and were thrilled to learn how professional workshops function especially with respect to tool storage and work place safety. We also took the opportunity visit the Bridge of Don Men’s Shed to see their set up and to learn from their experiences.

If you would like to participate in these activities, to learn new skills or just to relax with a group of supportive men over a hot brew and biscuits, come along and check us out. Best part membership is free so you’ve nothing to lose!

Please phone 07305 884822 (Davie Atkin) so that a Trustee is present to welcome you.

Paths & Nature Action Group Tackling Invasive Species – Much of our April effort focused on invasive non-native (plant) species (INNS), which smother native wildflowers and offer little value to pollinators.

While some are beyond control, others we can still tackle early.

Around the Birnam Oak, we pushed back (American) snowberry, removed colonising ostrich ferns (the Royal Horticultural Society advises careful siting due to their ‘expansive’ nature), and, we hope, cleared the last of the (south European) Italian arum begun last year.

Helping Our Native Species – Our new swift nest boxes are now installed, ready for their return in early May. House martins and swallows also need nesting sites—consider allowing swallows access to outbuildings (newspaper can catch droppings). These fast fliers brighten our days and eat vast numbers of midges and flies.

Looking ahead, we’ll fit more mesh guards to protect riverside trees from beaver gnawing.

We’re fortunate to have red squirrels locally,

though they face pressure from non-native greys through competition and disease. We’re planning work with the Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels project. If you’ve seen a grey squirrel or would like to help, please get in touch.

Upcoming path work includes cutting back encroaching brambles and improving drainage on the Brae St to Loch of the Lowes/ Fungarth route.

Our local environment faces many challenges.

Last year, volunteers gave over 415 hours to improve our area—with your help, we could do even more.

Repair Cafe: Bin it? No Way!!

Have you still got things stored away waiting to be mended? Jumper with a hole in? Broken ornament? Lamp with a loose wire? Broken or shooglie leg on a stool or small chair?

Anything portable - bring them to our next café on Monday 4th May at 3:00pm to 6:00pm. in the Birnam Arts Community Room next to the Library.

Our lovely volunteers work for free. The only cost might be for spare parts. Donations always welcome to help with running costs.

Come along and have a tea or a coffee and we’ll see if we can help.

We’ll also pass on repair skills if you want to learn to fix things.

Come and see what we do.

Future dates for 2026: Monday 1st June (followed by a summer break) Monday 7th September Monday 5th October Monday 2nd November Monday 7th December

THE FIELD March was a month of seed sowing — around 6,000 leeks, carefully started in over 20 repurposed fish boxes in our small polytunnel at the field. It sounds simple, but our method involves layering our own field compost with sand and loam, topping this with purchased potting compost, then soaking thoroughly before sowing onto a final layer of fine seed compost. Some of you may know that leek seeds are tiny and black — handling them is something of a dark art!

The emerging baby leeks are cosseted until they are ready to thrive outside in their nutritious, layered compost, before being planted out. Broad beans are also popping up indoors in boxes, and their plot is almost ready to receive them.

This year, oyster catchers have chosen that same plot for their nest. We are working around them — we are not their problem; crows and rooks are. We hope they can withstand the corvid harassment and successfully raise their chicks.

It’s not all work and no play at the field. We rediscovered the joy of making as we built obelisks from willow grown on site, ready to support this season’s flowers. When we began growing at the field fourteen years ago, there was no fruit and vegetable shop in Dunkeld. Now there are three market gardens, all working to grow without pesticides or artificial fertilisers: Little Trochry Farm, the growers at Spittalfield, and Murthly Walled Garden, producing for the Taybank and, soon, the Birnam Hotel. We are delighted to see soil being cared for and nutritious food produced close to home. This feels especially important given the forecast economic climate, where food security is likely to become an increasingly crucial issue.

Historic Dunkeld (the Community Archive) have also been active at the field. A geophysical survey of the St Jerome chapel site has recently been completed, with ambitions to open a couple of exploratory pits beneath the oak trees. Should their grant funding be secured, further work will take place across the field, offering opportunities for both children and adults to develop archaeological skills.

An ash tree affected by ash dieback near the car park had to be felled, without obstructing the road or damaging vehicles. It was impressive to watch a young female tree surgeon dismantle the 40-foot tree safely and skilfully.

Thank you all for your continued support.

We hope you feel, as we do, that together we are playing our part in supporting a healthier planet. If you have friends who might like to get involved, we would love to welcome them.

A membership form can be found on the Dunkeld Field website: www.dunkeldfield. co.uk Best wishes, The Trustees

Contact for queries dbrepaircafe@gmail.com

9

FIND US AT: Forneth, Blairgowrie, PH10 6SP 07789 056328 sean@mallenymortgagesolutions.com

Rivendell provides high quality care and support for you and your elderly relative.

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

So, if you are looking for social contact, a safe and supportive environment, support with health or medical needs then contact us. Our mission is to provide a home for life, so come and live life with us.

Please phone 01350 727413 and speak to Gina or email: manager@rivendellcarehome.co.uk.com for more information.

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Colin and Lizzy offer a caring and professional 24 hour service from custom built premises at Inver, Dunkeld.

You can visit loved ones in privacy at our small chapel of rest beside the River Braan.

For a personal service tailored to your requirements please contact us.

Colin Gerrie Mobile: 07836 343967 Telephone: 01350 727364 Email: wkgerrie.inver@gmail.com www.dunkeldfuneraldirectors.co.uk

We are a family business - We care.

Serving the community in Dunkeld, Ballinluig, Pitlochry, Blair Atholl and surrounding areas for over 50 years.

Birnam 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 Kinross a 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/

Tree Surgery - Reduction & Reshaping Felling Of Dangerous Trees Crown Thinning & Ornamental Pruning Stump Grinding - Stumps Removed Hedge Cutting Site Clearances FULLY INSURED

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Three Churches in the Community THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH Tina Mine‫﬙‬

all around us.

May is traditionally Mary’s month, a month in which we reflect on the new life Mary carried and nurtured in her womb as we continue to celebrate the lighter days and the awakening of the natural world around us. May queens are traditionally crowned with flowers in celebration of Mary, known to many as Queen of Heaven, with the abundance of blossoms they wear a colourful reminder of the abundance busting

The Persian world has just celebrated its new year celebrations, Nowruz: a much better time to begin the year as the earth awakes from its winter slumbers, I think, than as we do in the depths of winter.

Given the war in the Middle East, we might wonder how anyone can celebrate under such circumstances, and yet they did, clinging on to a moment of light in a very dark world. For many of us times of wider celebration may also be marred by sadness on a more domestic scale: the anniversary of the death of a loved one; the season in which a relationship broke down; we lost our home, or job...these personal tragedies affect us deeply, more immediately than conflicts far away.

We know that conflict and war are not unique to our time: centuries ago in a time of exile, the Psalmist wrote “By the rivers of Babylon— there we sat down and there we wept when we remembered” (Psalm 137, NRSV) As a society, we are not very good at lamenting, in acknowledging when life is tough and there are no easy solutions. Lament, though, is an honest response to such times, and embracing it can help us to cope when life seems overwhelming, especially when everyone around seems joyful but we need to dwell for a time in our sadness, loss and pain. It’s important to remember, too, that we can all put on a brave face – when it is easier to appear happy than to share the sadness we are feeling.

Let us all try to be more authentic about how we are feeling and be more attentive to those in a time of lament.

As I write, a ceasefire has been announced in the middle east: only time will tell if it is the beginning of a negotiated peace. Let us pray that it does.

Prayers for Help & Healing There is a change to the usual pattern this month. Because Easter fell on the 1st. Sunday of the month it has been decided to bring the Prayers for Help & Healing service forward a week to March 29th.

This is held jointly between the Parish Church and St. Mary’s Episcopal Church at 6.30. This follows the pattern of the weekly service of healing in Iona Abbey and lasts about 45 minutes.

It is a very gentle, quiet time of worship and prayer for specific things people may mention if they want to, or you can simply join in the service and have your own time of prayer.

The next one will be in Little Dunkeld on May 3rd. and then in St. Mary’s on June 7th.

Kirk Session The Kirk Session will meet on April 28th. at 7.30pm. in the Duchess Anne.

Annual Stated Meeting The ASM of the Church of Scotland congregation will be held after the morning service on April 26th. This gives an opportunity to hear about the finances and also a chance to get an update on proposed building works.

Fellowship Group

‘Exploring faith and life together’ Two Fellowship Groups meet, fortnightly, one on a Tuesday evening at 7p.m. and the other on Wednesday mornings at 10.30a.m., both in the Chanonry.

The Tuesday group has taken a new direction with ‘Coffee & Questions.’ Everyone has questions about life, belief or ethical issues which bother them – whether it be assisted

dying or world peace or….? You are invited to come along and add your questions to the mix.

One will be drawn out each night to provoke discussion on that theme. So, if there is an issue about faith or life you would like to discuss with others then come along.

No special knowledge is required, just a willingness to be stretched and challenged.

Upcoming meetings of the Tuesday group are the 5th & 19th. May at 7p.m.

The Wednesday group will meet next on the 6th. and 20th. May, gathering at 10.15a.m. and starting just after the Men’s Breakfast.

All Welcome. Both meet in the Chanonry but if you would like to join by Zoom, let Fraser know and that can be set up.

Men’s Breakfast Every second Wednesday a group of men meets in the Chanonry to start the day with a cooked breakfast together, discuss events, both local and international, and enjoy each other’s company. Upcoming dates are 6th and 20th May. There is no need to book; just turn up and enjoy. All are welcome.

Youth Group A group for all P.7s and upwards meets during term time in the Duchess Anne on Thursday evenings. Each night we start at 7p.m. and finish at 8.30p.m.

More information from Fraser Penny RPenny@ churchofscotland.org.uk

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

THE 3 CHURCHES CHARITY SHOP 12

Church of Scotland Services

Apr 26th 11.00am Morning Service in the Cathedral

Followed by the Annual Stated Meeting

May 3rd 11.00am Morning Service in the Cathedral 6.30pm Prayers for Help & Healing in Little Dunkeld.

May 10th 11.00am Morning Service in the Cathedral Marking the start of Christian Aid Week

May 17th 11.00am Morning Service in the Cathedral 2.15pm Service in Amulree Kirk May 24th 11.00am Morning Service in the Cathedral May 31st 11.00am Morning Service in the Cathedral June 7th 11.00am Communion Service in the Cathedral 2.15pm Prayers for Help & Healing in St. Mary’s Birnam Every Sunday there is chance to get together in the Chanonry for tea and coffee after the service.

Our local Christian Aid group will be raising funds for valuable development work in different parts of the world over Christian Aid week which this year is 10th-16th May. We will be doing the usual second-hand book sale outside the Duchess Anne on 8th & 9th and 15th &16th May. Donations of good quality books are always welcome and can be brought to the Duchess Anne on Friday mornings when the Meeting Place is on or left in the food share hut in front of the Duchess Anne anytime.

And we are always looking for people to come along and buy!! Even better, if you can help out on the stall let Fraser Penny know on RPenny@churchofscotland.org.uk

Coffee Mornings On Friday the 8th. the Meeting Place proceeds will be given to Christian Aid. Also, on Saturday 9th. members of the church Youth Group will run a Coffee morning from 10-12 so please come along and support them.

Your support for these efforts is always much appreciated as we raise what we can to support people in the most difficult circumstances, to support the livelihood of their families and community.

We are an independent local charity raising money for our 3 local churches.

All money raised is divided by three equally and presented to each Church.

New Volunteers always welcome – just pop in and let us know if you are interested in joining our friendly team. SC043359

Three Churches in the Community Liſting the weight of debt in Highland Perthshire Paula’s story:

Summer Music Festival 2026 We are delighted to announce that the Dunkeld Cathedral Summer Music Festival is confirmed to run from May to August this year with concerts: • Every Wednesday lunchtime from 12:00-1:00pm throughout the festival, starting May 6th till August 26th.

• Additional Sunday afternoon concerts from 3:00-4:00pm throught July and August, beginning Sunday July 5th with our finale concert on Sunday August 30th.

We look forward to welcoming as many of you as possible to enjoy music in the wonderful acoustic of Dunkeld Cathedral.

Fifteen years ago, my whole world fell apart through no fault of my own. I was in debt up to my neck, or that’s what it felt like, though it was only £3000. And then a friend phoned and told me there was a way out with CAP (Christians Against Poverty) in Highland Perthshire. I thought about it & spoke with my family and then I decided to work with CAP. My only realistic option was bankruptcy which I didn’t want to do, but I had no other choice. It was simple enough, but heartwrenching. But I was finally free of debt, and it was such a weight off my shoulders. I was even able to save using the CAP system. It was one of the best decisions I ever made.

Thanks so much to Angela and my support worker who has since become a really good friend.

New Debt Centre Manager, Helen Kirkwood, from Pitlochry.

Take the first steps out of debt, call the free CAP UK debt helpline number on 0800 328 0006. www.capuk.org “If you can’t even cope with thinking about your debts, as opposed to needing someone to help you to know what to do with them, I’d go to Christians Against Poverty”. Martin Lewis, Money Saving Expert.com

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 4pm. Every Saturday

Monthly and Occasional Services Church of Scotland, Amulree Third Sunday of the Month 2.15pm

Contact Details: Church of Scotland: Congregational Office Bearers: 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: treasurer@dunkeldcathedral.org

Covenant Officer: Mrs. Ann Bryce Tomnagrew House, Dunkeld PH80BX Tel: 01350 723228 e-mail: annbryce228@gmail.com Organist & Choir Leader: Mrs Hazel Murch Tel: 07867 642954 e-mail: music@dunkeldcathedral.org Parish Office: Mrs Jill McCrory The Chanonry, 07808 703641 email: chanonrydunkeld@gmail.com www.dunkeldcathedral.org

St Mary’s Episcopal Church, Birnam

Roman Catholic Churches Mass Times St Columba’s Catholic Church: Birnam (PH8 0BJ) Saturday Mass 4pm Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church: Aberfeldy (PH15 2AL) Sunday Mass 9:30am St Bride’s Catholic Church: Pitlochry (PH16 5AL) Sunday Mass 11:30am For any further information please contact: The Parish Priest: Canon Steven Mulholland stbridespitlochry@dunkelddiocese.org.uk

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

3rd Sunday ALL AGE. Once a month on third Friday there is a short prayer service in church at 6pm followed by a shared sandwich supper. During summer months (Apr-Sept) the church is open daily for visitors.

The monthly Servite worship service is at 2pm on the last Saturday of each month, led ecumenically by folk from the three churches in Dunkeld and Birnam The Rector: Rev. Tina Mine‫ ﬙‬Stevens email: tina@minettstevens.co.uk Treasurer: Charles Cox Vestry Secretary: Adrian Freer Tel: 01821 650536 email: adrianfreer@btinternet.com Tel: 01350 727755 (www.stmarysbirnam.org.uk)

PLENTY OF CLOTHING AND BRIC A BRAC, COME ALONG AND TREAT YOURSELF TO A BARGAIN

OPENING HOURS Monday - CLOSED Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 - 16:00 Sunday - CLOSED 13

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Murthly Village Hall Hire From £10 per hour

Contact: murthlyvillagehall@outlook.com Tel: 01738 710408

Three Churches Charity Shop High Street Dunkeld

Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am - 4pm If you are interested in volunteering, please enquire in the shop for more info.

gs: k

Clothing and shoe sale continues for one week, 3rd - 8th September. Last chance to grab a bargain.

Find us on Facebook at 3 Churches Charity Shop

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THE PLANT NURSERY KINDALLACHAN West Countlich Farm, Kindallachan, Near Ballinliug, PH9 0NW SEPTEMBER SALE Saturday 21st September 9.00am - 4.30pm HUGE REDUCTIONS How to find us: turn off the A9 at Kindallachan and follow the signs to the nursery.

Do you:

W R A P 07554 ® 008058 Wellbeing nursery@alexbutter.co.uk Training www.alexbutter.co.uk

Live or work in a stressful environment?

Feel overwhelmed, exhausted or unsatisfied with life?

Want to be proactive in supporting your wellbeing?

Three Churches Charity Shop High Street Dunkeld

April, change of seasons, lots of lovely Spring/Summer clothing and shoes will be appearing on our rails, as well as a variety of bric a brac as usual in the shop

Dog Chaperone for Weddings Ad Hoc / One Off Dog Walks for One Household at a time Join us1for a two free Day or up to Night Dog day Sitting Cat and Hen Visits WRAP® workshop to self-reflect, 07774 294610 learn skills and build an action Hello@solopaws.co.uk plan for early intervention and On Facebook and Instagram

prevention, to support your wellbeing.

17th & 24th Sept 2024 9-3pm both days Book a free place here:

Opening hours: Tuesday to Follow us on Saturday, 10am - 4pm If you are interested in volunteering, please enquire To in the shop find out more contact Beth for more info. dbdcdt@gmail.com Find us on Facebook at 3 Churches Charity Open Shop to all PH8 residents 18 years +

Health and Wellbeing Hub, Dunkeld & Birnam Guidehall, Little Dunkeld

Glack Dog Kennels

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vaccinated RBSFully mobile bank visits Dunkeld& and Birnam.

Thursdays: Dunkeld, full PPE compliant.

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Many families already are.

We invite you to explore our school and plan ahead with confidence.

Contact Catriona Elliott, Admissions Registrar admissions@morrisonsacademy.org

Nature and Climate rural skills trainees. We have been busy repairing footpaths and checking fencing after the winter, and we are now enjoying the arrival of spring as the hill bursts into life.

Get involved!

Where people and nature thrive Dun Coillich – where people and nature thrive Dun Coillich is a community owned landscape regeneration and rural skills training project in Glen Goulandie. Highland Perthshire Communities Land Trust owns and manages the land for wildlife and the local community.

Prize winning!

Many congratulations to Tony Marshall, one of our apprentices from last year, who recently won a Lantra ALBA award for Environmental Conservation Learner of the Year.

Congratulations also to the Pitlochry High School Junior Rangers who won the Anna Murray Partnership Working Award for their innovative programme in which S2 pupils take part in 25 days of conservation, learning, and volunteering across the Cairngorms National Park with a broad network of partners, including HPCLT. Welcome A big welcome to our two new Level 5 Modern Apprentices Fin and Coleby, and seven new

There are many ways to get involved with the exciting work being done by our small charity:

• Membership - costs £20 a year, and our members become part of our community.

Further details at https://www.duncoillich. org/support-us-2025/.

• Come to an event - our summer public events will be listed here www.duncoillich.org/whatson/

• Volunteering - We meet every Tuesday to enjoy time outdoors doing something practical.

• Become a trustee - to help steer the work of

HPCLT among a friendly group of fellow board members.

• Business partnership scheme - a way for

local businesses to give back to communities and the environment and support our work.

We welcome Glen Lyon Coffee as our first business partner.

More information Visit our website www.duncoillich.org to find out more about where we are and what we do, or follow our Facebook Group (Dun Coillich Community Land) for regular updates.

Dunkeld and Birnam in Bloom as many roots as we can. In St Ninians we replanted with snowdrops, aconites, cowslips, primroses and bluebells for early year colour.

The area is shady when the leaves appear on the trees.

This month we have been planting native bluebells in Torwood walk to increase the numbers that are already there. We also received tree shavings. The team have been busy laying these on the path.

Wildflower beds have been our focus this month in both Torwood and St Ninians.

We have dug them over and tried to remove

OPEN GARDEN

Please come along to visit the garden at Torwood House on St. Mary’s Road in Birnam (PH8 0BJ) on Sunday 17th May, 1-5pm on St Marys Road, Birnam.

We have lots of azaleas, rhododendrons, flowering shrubs, herbaceous borders and woodland, created over the last 50 years.

There will be tea, coffee and cakes and some plants for sale. This year we are supporting the children’s cancer charity, LOVE OLIVER, which has been a wonderful support to a local family over the last few years. We hope with your help to make a useful donation for childhood cancer research and support for affected children and families.

News from the Community Orchard Hope you’ve been enjoying walking through or past the orchard these past few weeks as the trees and fruit bushes start to unfurl their leaves and the daffodils bring a splash of welcome colour.

We value the orchard not only for our enjoyment, but for its benefits to wildlife and the wider environment — from capturing carbon dioxide in its leaves throughout the growing season, to providing flowers for pollinators, and offering nest sites, shelter and food for both wildlife and people.

Please step in if you are passing and enjoy a peaceful walk around. The community orchard is to your left just before you cross the bridge into Dunkeld. The orchard has been cared for by volunteers since 2008.

We’d love to hear from you if you might be able to join the team – both light and heavier jobs to suit and no prior experience or expertise in fruit tree care needed! Email us dunkeldbirnamorchard@ gmail.com or find and follow us on social media.

Evergreen Gardening Group We’re hosting tabletop/accessible “gardening” sessions in the Servite Community Lounge (Willowbank, Little Dunkeld) Our next session is Thursday 14 May 10:3012:00 Thanks to everyone who came to the Evergreen Gardening Group get-together, held in the community lounge at Servite in March, when we enjoyed “all things herbs.”

Plants have been split and potted up for sale, so if you didn’t get along to our fundraising coffee morning, check out the pallet at St Ninians which has any remaining plants for sale. We meet on Monday mornings at 10 a.m. Groups can be found in St Ninian’s Garden, Dunkeld and Torwood Park, Birnam. Anyone who would like to come and join us, please do.

For our next session we’re planning to revamp the outdoor manger planter – replacing the current colourful display of winter bedding/ spring bulbs with plants to provide interest through the coming months. If the weather is poor, we’ll retreat to the community lounge and do what we can from there.

Sessions are designed to make it possible to work from a chair or wheelchair as Servite is an accessible building and the manger planter allows you to get your chair/knees under.

All members of the community welcome – you don’t need to live at Servite to come along.

There’s no charge for attending and tea and coffee are provided. Although booking isn’t essential it would be helpful to have an idea of who’s coming so please get in touch to let me know you are interested or have any questions - 07876 118625 or mel@cavecrag.com (volunteer co-ordinator).

Look forward to seeing you at the session!

17

Nature and Climate Gardening & Growing Club – Join Us! Love plants? Whether you’re a windowsill potterer or a plot-taming pro, our Gardening & Growing Club is for you!

We’re a friendly bunch who enjoy learning, sharing tips, and meeting fellow garden enthusiasts. Our year is packed with inspiring talks, garden visits, social events, and our big annual show in August.

First meeting FREE – come along and give it a try!

Annual membership: Just £25 for a year of green-fingered.

Everyone’s welcome! Drop by, meet like-minded folks, and grow something wonderful with us. For more info dbggclub@gmail.com

START OF THE NEW GARDENING AND GROWING YEAR 10th May 2026

Visit to rhododendrons at Glendoick House Gardens

10th June

Sally Lorimore of Willowhill to give a talk on the Hellebores at Willowhill Gardens

15th July 2026

Murthly Walled Garden

22nd August 2026

The Annual Show, Birnam Arts

16th September 2026

Falkland Palace Gardens

14th October 2026

Talk on Cacti and Succlents

18th November 2026

Wreath making at the Guide Hall

Part of the growing Climate Café® movement that began in this village over ten years ago, the Climate Café® Dunkeld & Birnam offers a welcoming space to share ideas, news, concerns, practical actions and find out more about local initiatives to tackle the climate emergency – all over a friendly cuppa. The café connects our community with the wider network of Climate Café® spaces springing up across Scotland and beyond, making it easy to learn, connect, and take action together.

Join the chat and action in the Coworking Space in Little Dunkeld, the first Thursday of every month from 7pm - 9pm. There’s no formal agenda, chat is led by those who come along, it is a place to share information, keep up with events, get support with your ideas and find inspiration. Find out more at www.climate.cafe or follow the conversation online #ClimateCafe #DrinkChatAct

Community Noticeboard Three Churches Charity Shop We have been having some difficulties with the card payment machine this month, as the access by the provider was not available. It’s been surprising how many people were able to find enough cash by digging deep in pockets and bags and asking their companions “have you got any change on you?” In spite of having the cash machine across the road, we did lose a few sales.

One of our volunteers came across a pair of very nice-looking binoculars and thought that they were a donation. Not knowing their value, they were safely put aside until our in-house specialist could assess them. Then came a desperate phone call from a lady who had inadvertently left her binoculars in the shop.

They were very expensive and had been given to her by her family as a special birthday gift. What a relief they had not been put on sale.

will help point folk to information available and direct them to significant parts of the building.

Basic guidance and training will be offered so that volunteers know what is expected of them.

Maybe you could help out? You don’t need to commit to a set time every week - just whatever you can manage.

It is always enjoyable and you meet lots of interesting people from all over the world.

Feedback from previous years volunteers has been impressive and they found it to be a most pleasant and worthwhile experience. If you would be interested, then please contact Mike Smithson on mandjsmithson@yahoo.co.uk

Dunkeld Community Fire Station

All in a day’s work for our shop

The Meeting Place Our Coffee Morning on behalf of The Brain Tumour Charity raised £600 and we would like to thank everyone who helped to make this event a huge success.

We meet every Friday in the Duchess Anne (Church hall) in Dunkeld from 10am - 12.

On 24th April, members of the Dunkeld and Birnam In Bloom Committee will have a plant stall as well as Cake and Candy to go with the Coffee and Chat. All welcome.

Volunteer welcomers needed at the Cathedral.

Over 80,000 visitors come into Dunkeld Cathedral every year and, in the summer months, we like to have welcomers on duty as folk come in. No specialist knowledge is required about history or the church. All that is needed is a friendly face, enthusiasm for our community, and this wonderful building at the heart of it. Welcomers

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A huge THANK YOU to everyone who came along to our charity car wash. We got lucky with the weather, transforming loads of cars and two bikes from dirty to squeaky clean.

We also had a lot of interest from families and enjoyed showing children around the fire engine.

Thanks to your support and generosity, we raised a fantastic £654.73 for the Firefighters Charity!!! We have an upcoming visit planned for the two local nurseries at the end of the month and will be organising an open day for the summer.

We’ve also had four prospective recruits get in touch and are still actively recruiting.

If you’d like to learn new skills, help your community and get paid for your service then visit the station on a Wednesday night between 7pm and 9pm.

Get in touch with us on Facebook, email: oliver.gibb@firescotland.gov.uk or follow this link: www.firescotland.gov.uk/careers/on-callfirefighter/

Learning and Community History 12 The Cross, Dunkeld, PH8 0AN. www.historicdunkeld.org.uk manager@historicdunkeld.org.uk

01350 727786

OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm

LIVING HISTORY EVENTS 2026 DATES FOR YOUR DIARIES May Sat 2nd & Sun 3rd – Clan clashes, political plots and violent battles...Follow the life of a 17th C soldier through these trying times in Scottish history. Sir Arthur Erskine Regiment 17th C training camp in Stanley Hill park plus guided tours and an evening talk about the Marquess of Montrose. Immerse yourself in this turbulent era of Scottish History defined by its battles and risings.

June Sun 28th (WORKSHOP 10 tickets only) - Step into a richly detailed Jacobean-inspired apothecary brought to life by The Historical Herbalists CIC. Refreshments, lunch and materials included.

July Wed 29th July (WORKSHOP 10 tickets only) - Join Emma from Bog Born Crafts for a chance to use the techniques and tools of Neolithic and Bronze Age people to craft replica Beaker-style pottery. Refreshments, lunch and materials included.

August Fri 21st to Sun 23rd – Jacobite Festival 2026; The 21st is the 337th anniversary of the battle of Dunkeld. Sir Arthur Erskine Regiment camp in Stanley Hill park, guided Dunkeld battlefield tours and an evening talk on the Battle of Killiecrankie.

FOR FULL DETAILS AND BOOKING INFORMATION SCAN HERE Or, visit our web site www.historicdunkeld.org.uk/whats-on

YOUNG ARCHAEOLOGIST CLUB

Fortnightly on a Thursday, 3.30pm to 5pm in the Archive for children age 8 – 16.

Next meeting - Thursday 7th May.

SUPPORT US BY BECOMING A MEMBER + ADULT ARCHAEOLOGY/HISTORY CLUB By becoming a member of Historic Dunkeld you can help support our developing museum.

We also have an annual get-together. You can choose to just be a supporter, or you can sign up for our archaeology and history club where you will gain access to all our talks, skills workshops and fieldwork, and get half-price tickets to most of our events.

Our club night (last Thursday of each month), talks and skills workshops are held in the rooms above the Perth Arms at 7.30pm. Please feel free to grab a drink on your way up!

MONDAY MEMORIES CLUB Monday in the Archive from 3.00pm to 4.30pm in the Archive.

Reminisce over tea/coffee & biscuits.

If you need transport please get in touch as we have a taxi available.

Newsletter To keep up with all our news and what’s on in Historic Dunkeld, sign up for our free monthly newsletter.

Sign up at www.historicdunkeld.org.uk

Dunkeld and Birnam Scouts continue to meet fortnightly, running out of the Duchess Anne, but with activities ranging into and through our wonderful natural environment as well. We try to get out most weeks, even if weather not necessarily permitting!

We’ve space for some new recruits, boys or girls aged 10 1/2 to 13 are welcome to come along for a taster. They can expect something different every week. Most recently, we’ve done Easter baking, a wildlife night trek, stargazing, and “wide games,” as well as contributing to a national consultation on climate change (as part of a global issues badge). We also played a variety of indoor games, and lots more!

If you’re keen, or know someone who might be, you can log interest through this QR code Contact Graeme Cook 07904411624

Library Community Challenge!

Friends of Birnam Library are setting the community a challenge to double the number of active borrowers in our community from 220 – 440 by September 2026 and show to everyone how much we value Birnam Library!

It’s free to join the library – just pop along to the library to join or renew your membership if you have lost your card – and you don’t even need to be able to read to join .. you can join as soon as you are born!

Home Repairs and Improvements Carpentry : Plumbing : Tiling Glazing and Decorating SERVING PERTHSHIRE FOR 30 YEARS NO JOB TOO SMALL Chris Wylie 2 Millhole Road, Spittalfield, Perthshire. PH1 4JR Phone: 01738 710671 / 07925 844491

Please check that your membership is with Birnam Library so your membership counts towards our target!

Did you know .. our library also has jigsaws for borrowing and space for book groups to meet?

You can also order books on-line using the Spydus app which is free to download.

If you would like to join the community group contact us at: friendsofbirnamlibrary@gmail.com Friends of Birnam Library : A Community Group committed to a bright and sustainable future for Birnam Library

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Learning and Community History The Moore House Group Dunkeld Campus Strengthens Outdoor Learning Through Partnership with Fordie Estate.

Moore House Group Dunkeld Campus are proud to be working in partnership with Fordie Estate, providing meaningful outdoor learning opportunities that support our neurodiverse children and young people. This partnership is now well underway, with groups of our young people already taking part in a structured programme at Fordie Estate. Each week, learners spend a full day immersed in the natural environment; an approach that reflects our commitment to outdoor learning as a powerful tool for supporting regulation, wellbeing and engagement.

For many of our young people, access to calm, open spaces and sensory-rich environments plays a vital role in helping them feel settled, focused and ready to learn. The programme offers a blend of vocational learning and personal development. Young people are actively involved in woodland management, identifying species and exploring the importance of biodiversity, as well as green woodworking, where they use traditional tools to create practical items.

Our young people are also contributing to infrastructure projects such as building boardwalks and outdoor learning spaces, giving them a strong sense of ownership and achievement as they see the direct impact of their work. A key part of the experience is learning and applying the “Leave No Trace” ethos, encouraging respect for the environment, and reinforcing our wider values around responsibility and care.

Importantly, this work is about much more than developing practical skills. It is about creating opportunities for success in different forms; building confidence, encouraging teamwork, and allowing young people to achieve in ways that are meaningful.

This ongoing partnership reflects our commitment to delivering inclusive, responsive education. By embracing opportunities like this, we continue to create an environment where every young person feels accepted, supported to aspire, and empowered to achieve. As Abby, our Outdoor Learning Coordinator says, “it has been great to see how positively the young people have enjoyed the experience of learning new outdoor skills whilst building great relationships within the group and the wider Fordie Estate team.”

You can learn more about Fordie Estate at: www.fordieestate.co.uk

Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries

Dunkeld Mobile Service

Bookbug sessions - every Thursday from 10.30am - 11am. Come

Thursdays 9.00am – 10.00am Dunkeld North End Car Park, Atholl Street, Dunkeld, PH8 0AR

and join us for a session of songs, stories, and rhymes for under 5s.

Prebooking for each session is essential. Please get in touch with the library to book a spot.

Books on Wheels - For individuals who cannot get out and about to visit the library, this includes books in large print and audio formats. For further information, please get in touch with the library.

Bin Straps - Are you having issues with your grey-lidded bin toppling

over in high winds and spilling its contents? Why not collect a bin strap for your grey lidded bin at any Culture Perth & Kinross library? Stock is limited; only one bin strap per grey bin.

Recycling - All Culture Perth & Kinross libraries, including Birnam, accept used stamps and batteries for recycling.

Maximum borrowing limit - Did you know that the maximum number

of items you can now borrow on your Culture Perth & Kinross library card at any one time is 12?

E-resources - Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries offer online library

services available 24/7 via the library website at www.culturepk.org.uk/ libraries or by downloading the library app. Services include browsing the catalogue, online joining, requesting and renewing items. A selection of e-resources is also available, including e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines, e-news and e-reference resources, including trove.scot, Theory Test PRO and Ancestry.

REGULAR OPENING HOURS: Monday - Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 5pm - 7pm Friday: 12pm - 5pm Saturday: 9.30am - 12pm Sunday: Closed Birnam Library, Station Road, Birnam, DUNKELD PH8 0DS Contact: 01738 459709/ birnamlibrary@culturepk.org.uk

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Services

• Royal Mail & Parcelforce • Everyday Personal Worldwide • Cash withdrawls • Cash Deposits

& Business Banking • Cheque Deposits • Driving: vehicle tax

Alternative Branches: Please check opening times and that these branches have the services you require.

Murthly: Mon-Thurs 9am – 13.00, Friday 9am – 13.00 (5.1 miles) Spittalfield Mobile Service: Thurs 10:15 – 10:45 (5.2 miles) Bankfoot: Mon, Wed and Fri 9:30 – 11:30 (5.3 miles) Pitlochry: Mon-Sun 9am – 20.00 (13 miles) Ballinluig: Mon, Thurs, Fri 09:00 – 12:00, 13:00 – 17:30 (8.6 miles) Perth Muirton: 113 Dunkeld Road Perth PH1 5BS Mon-Fri 9am – 17:00, Sat 9am – 13.00 (13 miles)

Community Developments Muirhall Energy Muirhall Energy, in partnership with Scone Estates, has been progressing with plans to develop North Logiealmond Wind Farm, approximately 18 km north-west of Perth.

At the start of the year, we held a series of information events across consecutive weeks in Bankfoot, Chapelhill and Birnam. These were attended by more than 140 visitors, where they could find out information on the final design of the wind farm, which will be submitted for planning, and how the feedback received to date has shaped these proposals.

We really appreciate the time spent by local residents attending these events and engaging in conversation with the team. The materials that were on display are still available online at the project website www.muirhallenergy.co.uk/ projects/48-north-logiealmond.

At these events, we anticipated that the Section 36 Application would be submitted in late March/early April. We are now writing to let you know that there will be a delay in submission until the Summer. This delay is in order to provide additional information as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment on the potential for environmental effects from grid infrastructure. These grid elements will still be subject to separate engagement and consenting, as discussed at our information events.

We will continue to keep the community and local stakeholders informed as matters progress, including an update on anticipated submission dates closer to the time. When the Application is submitted, we will also notify local residents and community groups of this, where to find information and the timescales for submitting representations.

Anyone with any questions can get in touch with the team NorthLogiealmondWF@ muirhallenergy.co.uk.

A New Chapter in Community-Led Care for Rural Perthshire OUR VISION

“We help create caring communities where everyone is valued, connected, and supported to live their best life.”

OUR MISSION

“Drawing on local understanding, we provide community-led support that connects people with each other and the help they need to thrive.”

Heartland Cares - a new community-owned organisation is set to transform social care across rural Perthshire, offering a lifeline to residents in Dunkeld and Birnam & Rannoch and Tummel.

Heartland Cares has been established to deliver vital care at home and other social care services directly within these communities. Built on social enterprise principles and guided by the belief that every decision should reflect what is best for the people it serves, Heartland Cares aims to help people remain in their own homes, connected to the communities they love, for as long as they choose.

The need for such a service is pressing. Across Scotland, over 5,000 people were waiting for an initial care assessment and 3,400 for care by the end of 2023 and in Perth and Kinross alone, 246 adults were still awaiting assessment1.

Part of the challenge has been structural. Under Scotland’s Self-Directed Support (SDS) system, the option for local authorities to arrange care directly which is SDS Option 3, is simply not available in many rural parts of Perth and Kinross. Commissioning private providers is rarely economically viable outside of cities, leaving many residents with no realistic alternative to managing their own care.

Heartland Cares offers a different path. By drawing on local understanding and community leadership, the organisation will provide services that connect people with the support they need while also creating local jobs, supporting people to live and work in their communities and strengthening the social fabric of rural Perthshire.

The benefits are expected to extend well beyond individual care recipients. By enabling faster hospital discharge and reducing the need for residential care, Heartland Cares also aims to relieve pressure on NHS, a benefit that will be felt region wide.

Heartland Cares is currently building its team and preparing to launch services across both communities.

If you would like to stay informed, volunteer, work with us or simply learn more, we warmly invite you to get in touch: info@heartlandcares.org

COMMUNITY CONSULTATION EVENT COMMUNITY-LED AFFORDABLE HOMES AT BIRNAM PARK “HAVE YOUR SAY AND SHAPE WHAT COMES NEXT”

WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2026 BIRNAM ARTS

Session1@15:30-17:00/Session2 @18:00-19:30 Please attend whichever session suits you best and arrive in time for a cup of tea and a prompt start

A AT THE SESSIONS...

MEET THE TEAM THE STORY S ST T TO OR RY SO FAR/WHERE F FAR/ R/W /WHERE WE ARE NOW O OW BIRNAM & DUNKELD HIST HISTORIC S ST TORIC GROW TO GROWTH O OW W WT TH COMMUNITY-LED COMMUNITY TYTY Y-LED HOMES / HOUSING EXA X XAMPLES EXAMPLES SITE S ST STRENGTHS, RENGT G GTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES & THREAT A AT T TS S THREATS YOUR Y YO UR VIEWS VIEWS/FEEDBACK W WS S/FEEDBAC S/ A K AC WHAT’S WHAT A AT’S NEXT X XT

Dunkeld and Birnam & District Community Development Trust After a community consultation recognised strong demand for and local support of affordable housing, an initial feasibility study into the possibility of a small-scale, community-led development at Birnam Park (“the carrot field”) has begun. The feasibility study will also explore other potential community uses for the site.

We are holding an event at Birnam Arts on Wednesday, 29 April. Please join us to find out how we got here and to share your views. Everyone in the community is welcome.

See our advert [to side/below]. Information about this event, and other Trust projects and work, can be found on our website www.dbdtrust.org Dunkeld, Birnam and District Community Development Trust is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) regulated by the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR), Scottish Charity number SC052156.

A ST S STRONG RONG LO L LOCAL C L DEMAND FOR CA AFFORDABLE AFFORDA D BLE HOUSING HAS DA A BEEN AS IDENTIFIED. THE FEAS FEASIBILITY A IBILITY AS T ST TY S STUDY UDY D WILL EXPLO DY EXPLORE L RE THE POT LO POTENTIAL O ENTIAL OT SCALE, COMMUNITY-LED DEVELOPMENT FOR A SMALL SCA CA TY LO C LE, COMMUNITY TYY-LED DEVELO L PMENT OTHER OF HOMES AND OT HER POSSIBLE COMMUNITY TY O T USES PARK CARROT A BIRNAM PA AT P RK (“THE CA C RROT O FIELD”) OT

EVERYONE WELCOME! FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT MEL NICOLL, DEVELOPMENT OFFICER 07864 232116 DBDCDT@GMAIL.COM UNABLE TO ATTEND? PRESENTATION MATERIALS & FEEDBACK FORMS WILL BE AVAILABLE ONLINE AND TO VIEW LOCALLY AFTER THE EVENT.

"Dunkeld, Birnam and District Community Development Trust" is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) regulated by the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR), Scottish Charity number: SC052156. https://www.dbdtrust.org

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Notes from a Councillor Please note there is no Councillors’ Column this month due to the Scottish Parliament elections.

Polling takes place on Thursday 7 May

PLEASE REMEMBER TO VOTE For more information:

www.pkc.gov.uk/scottishparliament We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all our Community Councillors for the time, care and commitment they give in supporting our local area.

News from our Community Council The Community Council continues to work on a number of important local issues affecting residents across Dunkeld, Birnam and the surrounding area.

A significant development this month is confirmation that a Public Local Inquiry has been launched for the Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing section of the A9 dualling programme. This follows unresolved objections to the current proposals. The inquiry is an important formal stage in the statutory process and will allow concerns to be examined independently before any decision is made on whether the project can proceed. We know how important the A9 is to our community, and we will continue to monitor progress closely while pressing for solutions that balance national transport improvements with local quality of life.

We have also received notice from Muirhall Energy that submission of the planning application for the proposed North Logiealmond Wind Farm has been delayed.

The application, previously expected this spring, is now anticipated in Summer 2026.

The delay is to allow further environmental assessment work, particularly in relation to grid infrastructure. We understand

further updates will be provided ahead of submission, and we will share these when available.

with meeting agendas, minutes and up-todate planning application information can be found on our website.

Traffic and parking remain key priorities for the Community Council. We are continuing to work constructively with Perth & Kinross Council and other partners on a range of short, medium and longer-term measures to improve safety, reduce congestion and increase parking capacity. Progress includes plans for improved pedestrian signage, consideration of time-limited parking, stronger enforcement during peak periods, better visitor information, traffic calming measures and wider strategic review work. These issues affect residents, businesses and visitors alike, and we remain committed to practical improvements.

We thank residents for their continued engagement and support as we work on behalf of the community.

Residents should also be aware that a new planning application relating to Newtyle Quarry has now been submitted.

This follows the refusal last year of previous quarry expansion proposals after strong community opposition. Given the level of public concern previously expressed, it is important that residents are aware of this latest application.

The proposal will be discussed at the next Community Council meeting on Monday 27 April.

The Community Council encourages everyone to stay informed and involved.

Full updates on all of these matters along

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COUNCILLOR GRANT LAING

(Independent) 01738 475000 or 07881 500501 Email: GLaing@pkc.gov.uk

COUNCILLOR IAN JAMES (Conservative) 01738 475000 Email: IJames@pkc.gov.uk

COUNCILLOR CLAIRE MCLAREN (Scottish Liberal Democrats) 01738 475000 Email: ClaireMcLaren@pkc.gov.uk

May ‘Stick on the Fridge’ Local Organisations - Contact Details

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

Please contact the editor with amendments/additions.

Phone 01350+ Organisations - General 3 Churches Charity Shop Alcoholics Anonymous (Helpline) Chapter House Museum (in Dunkeld Cathedral, open 7 days) D&B Paths and Nature Action Group DBDCDT Dunkeld Birnam District Community Development Trust Dunkeld & Birnam Community Orchard Dunkeld & Birnam Historical Society Dunkeld & Birnam in Bloom Dunkeld & Birnam Men’s Shed Dunkeld Masonic Lodge Dunkeld Community Archive (Mon – Fri, 10am – 3pm) Friends of the Cathedral Gardening and Growing Club (Horti) National Trust for Scotland Royal British Legion Repair Café RVS (Supporting You At Home and Home Library Service) SWRI

07751 593421 Anne Graham 0800 917 7650 727786 Ruth Brown archive@historicdunkeld.org.uk stewartpritchard@aol.com 07864 232116 www.dbdtrust.org/ 727048 Katharine Melville dunkeldbirnamorchard@gmail.com 07584 434253 Dave Roberts daveroberts132@btinternet.com 07931 758456 Moira Forbes Forbes50@hotmail.co.uk 07777 696953 Jackie MacLean dbmensshed@outlook.com 724232 Tom Gordon secyonefour@gmail.com 727786 Ruth Brown archive@historicdunkeld.org.uk 728697 John Gray friends@dunkkeldcathedral.org 07740 982465 Andrea Cox acox325@gmail.com 07548 757060 Karen Clark kclark@nts.org.uk 728811 Kevin Forsyth Kevforsyth@hotmail.com 07788746127 Liz Duguid dbrepaircafe@googlemail.com 01738 633975 Geoff Bird perthsupportingyou@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk

SWRI Amulree The Field The Meeting Place (Fri, DA) Tourist Association

Community Learning & Development PKC CLD Staff U3A

Sport

723203 / 07881 531565 Evelyn Menzies Evelynhmenzies@gmail.com 723203 Jane Anderson 07584 434253 Dave Roberts dblandtrust@btinternet.com 07474 183042 Margaret Scott 723297 Adrian Blundell

01738 459701 Cat Gordon/Alison May/ Robin Crawford Enquiries: cld@pkc.gov.uk https://bit.ly/PKCCLD 07714 103309 Sandra Cairncross smcairnx@hotmail.com

Butterstone Hill & Trail Group

07761 673231 Adrian Davis wildoutdoorscotland@gmail.com Clan Bowmen (Field Archery) 727911 / 07786 073686 Arthur Robert Hewines bobhewines@hotmail.com secretary@dbaa.co.uk Billy Davidson Dunkeld & Birnam Angling Association Dunkeld & Birnam Bowling Club 07977 911068 Gael Shaw Gaelshaw@btinternet.com Dunkeld & Birnam Golf Club 01350 727524 Rhona Pollok (Visitors Welcome) dunkeldgolf@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 (all ages) 07816 982140 Andrew Ross 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 Bill.b.melville@btinternet.com Yoga 07858 817915 Sue Atkinson atkinsue93@yahoo.co.uk

Music & Arts BIPS

07872 505516 Melanie Brockway mbroc02@hotmail.com 727674 Manager admin@birnamarts.com arts@birnamarts.com Birnam Arts Ballet (Mon – Thurs, Emma Gray age 4 upwards & adults) ballet@birnamarts.com Cathedral Tower Bell Ringers 742218 Iona Connor lowesfarm@hotmail.com Dunkeld and District Strathspey & Reel Society 07740 664052 Theresa MacVarish Clark secretary@dunkeldstrathspeyandreel.org Film Society 727740 Tom Barnard tom_barnard@btinternet.com Just Singin’, 7.30pm Weds (BA) 07765 405203 Katie Dalgliesh www.justsingin.co.uk Traditional Youth Music Group 07958 324 766 Karys and Gill dbtradgroup@gmail.com and Facebook Birnam Arts

Annual Events

Art Exhibition Arts & Crafts Fair (Apr, Aug & Nov) Christian Aid Week Highland Games (August) Niel Gow Festival (weekend closest to 22 March)

For Children

Baby & Toddler Group Caputh Baby & Toddler Group (Tues, 9.30 – 11.30am) Nursery at Royal School of Dunkeld Sunday School – Church of Scotland

dunkeldart@aol.com Margaret Scott 727968 / 07743 400938 Na’an Meikleour poppyseednaan@yahoo.com 727867 Jim McCafferty 07880 588433 Duncan Sim duncan_sim@hotmail.com 07766 406313 Liam Manion LManion41@gmail.com 07546 128902 07722 183546

Lesley Singers Catherine Thomson

01738 454470 727249

Royal School of Dunkeld Fraser Penny

Local Organisations - Continued

For Younger People

Girlguiding Dunkeld (Rainbows, 07770 324173 Trix Stephen Brownies, Guides, Rangers) (District Commissioner) The Black Watch Army Cadets 07429 113439 2nd Lt Craig Ross 1989ros@armymail.mod.uk 727249 Fraser Penny Youth Group (for P7s & 1st years, Thurs 7 – 8.30pm)

For Older People

Caledonia HA and Willowbank House Senior Citizens

Hall Bookings

Amulree Village Hall Birnam Arts Caputh Hall Chanonry Dalguise Village Hall Duchess Anne

Health Community & Services

07595 651446 Joanne Lawrie joanne.lawrie@caledoniaha.co.uk 727311 Ronalda Pattullo 07749 914906 Isabel Brady northamulree@btinternet.com 727674 Manager 07832 235607 Lorna Lyle 07808 703641 Jill McCrory chanonrydunkeld@gmail.com 07746 392268 Anne Cameron annedunkeld@gmail.com 07808 703641 Jill McCrory office@dunkeldcathedral.org

Birnam Library (Thu 5 – 7pm, Fri 01738 459709 Margaret Quigley 12 – 5pm, Sat 9.30am – 12 noon) birnamlibrary@culturepk.org.uk 727210 Davidsons Chemist Chemist (Dunkeld) (on Sunday) 01738 494610 Asda, Dunkeld Rd, Perth Doctors 727269 Craigvinean Surgery Dunkeld & Birnam Community Lachlan MacEwan dbcc.chair@gmail.com Council Infinity Blu Dental Care(Birnam & Pitlochry) 729198 / 01796 470001 01738 476476 PKC Environmental Services 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 May 2 2 2

The Field Work Day 10am-12pm www.dunkeldfield.co.uk Living History Tours-17th-century Scottish Soldiers 11am|2pm historicdunkeld.org.uk Living History Talk -James Graham 1st Marquess of Montrose: A Scottish Hero?

7:30pm upstairs at Perth Arms historicdunkeld.org.uk 3 Living History Tours-17th-century Scottish Soldiers 11am|2pm historicdunkeld.org.uk 3 Jan Hendry’s FRAGILE: Moths, Life, Systems & Us Birnam Arts exhibit ends 3 Prayers for Help and Healing 6:30 – 7:30pm Little Dunkeld Kirk 3 RSPB International Dawn Chorus Day https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/news/ the-dawn-chorus-all-you-need-to-know-about-natures-big-show 4 Repair Cafe 3 to 6pm. in the Birnam Arts Community Room next to the Library.

5 Tuesday Lunch Club 12:30 to 2:30pm at The Duchess Anne 5 Meditation 10.30 to 12.30 in Dalguise Village Hall faithanstey@gmail.com 7 Young Archeologists Club 3:30 to 5pm in the Archive for children age 8 – 16.

7 Climate Café Coworking Space in Little Dunkeld 7-9pm https://www.climate.cafe 7 Youth Group 7-8:30pm The Duchess Anne minister@dunkeldcathedral.org 8-9 Second Hand Book Stall for Christian Aid Duchess Anne 11-3pm 10 Gardeners and Growers visit to rhododendrons at Glendoick House Gardens dbggclub@gmail.com Community Council Meeting 7 to 9pm Birnam Arts 11 12 Dunkeld & Birnam Leisure Group AGM Co-Working Space 7:30pm 14 Evergreen Gardening Group at Servite Community Lounge 10:30 to 12:00pm 14 Youth Group 7-8:30pm The Duchess Anne minister@dunkeldcathedral.org 14 TALISK Scottish Folk Trio 8pm-10.30pm www.ba.com 15 KAMMERPHILHARMONIE EUROPA orchestra 8pm -10pm www.ba.com 15-16 Second Hand Book Stall for Christian Aid Duchess Anne 11-3pm 17 Amulree Church Service 2:15 – 3:15pm Minister Rev R Fraser Penny 17 Open Garden 1 to 5pm Torwood House St. Mary’s Road in Birnam (PH8 0BJ) 19 Meditation 10.30 to 12.30 in Dalguise Village Hall faithanstey@gmail.com 19 Tuesday Lunch Club 12:30 to 2:30pm at The Duchess Anne 21 Young Archeologists Club 3:30 to 5pm in the Archive for children age 8 – 16 21 Birnam Arts Workshop Macrame Plant Hangers 10.30am-1pm www.ba.com 21 Youth Group 7-8:30pm The Duchess Anne minister@dunkeldcathedral.org 26 Warm Spaces Free Film Birnam Arts --A CHORUS LINE –1pm lunch, 2pm film 28 Skills Workshop --Glass Identification with Jamie Kunka 7:30 historicdunkeld.org.uk 30 GNOSS Scottish folk band 8pm-10pm www.ba.com 30 Servite Ecumenical Service 2:00 – 3:00pm Servite House Birnam June 8 A9 Community Group AGM Guide Hall 7.30pm 25 Archives :Skills workshop - Excavation skills part 4www.historicdunkeld.org.uk July 15 Gardeners and Growers Visit Murthly Walled Garden dbggclub@gmail.com 25-29 August Dunkeld Cathedral Art Exhibition Open Daily 10-4 (Sundays 12 – 4) Duchess Anne Dunkeld Free http://www.dunkeldartexhibtion.com Aug 15 Gardeners and Growers Annual Show Birnam Arts dbggclub@gmail.com 31 Community Council Meeting 7-9pm venue TBA dunkeldandbirnamcc.co.uk

For more information on groups that meet weekly and for dates further and for all contact information see www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk If you notice an inaccurate entry or that contact information needs updating please contact the editor on editor@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk Thank you.

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