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Before heading back to Uni in September, Cals announced, “I am getting excited for Christmas,” and went on to share a list of things he’s looking forward to—making Christmas biscuits, snow angels, walking in the woods, and goodness knows what else. We looked at him, amazed that he could be thinking of Christmas in the summer sunshine. However, the weeks have slipped past, and suddenly I’m starting my own lists. Is anyone else having a quandary about whether to send Christmas cards this year? I absolutely love getting cards, but the cost of mailing a pile of them is starting to need its own budget line. “What’s the price of a secondclass stamp?” is one of those questions they used to ask politicians to see if they were in touch with us mere mortals. Given the exponential rate of increase in postage over the past few years, you need to be a stock market analyst to get anywhere close. I just looked it up, and it’s… 85p! Ten points if you got that right! One of my cousins was staying with us in the summer, and I tried out the “We’re thinking of not sending Christmas cards this year” line with him and his wife. They looked at us quite shocked and said, “Oh, but you have to send your card—we really look forward to getting it!” Ho hum, what to do? However, it’s getting to decision-making time as we start pulling Secret Santa names out of a hat and wonder where we might get the turkey from this year. One thing we can do, however, is continue to support our local businesses and charities wherever possible. Why not start with a trip to Trochry to visit Corbenic’s Advent Market on 30th November? We’re sure to find some fantastic gift ideas as well as some tasty food produced in their kitchen (see page 16). Then there’s the opportunity to join the Magical Christmas Candlelit Trail in the village on 6th December from 4-8pm, where
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 28th November 2024, 7.30pm at Birnam Arts. All welcome! If there are important developments before that we shall of course be in touch.
A REMINDER!
IF YOU SUBMITTED WRITTEN COMMENTS TO TS ABOUT THE PREFERRED ROUTE AFTER THEIR JANUARY EXHIBIT AND WANT TO KNOW WHAT THEIR RESPONSE TO YOU IS, AND HAVE NOT YET LOOKED AT THEIR CONSULTATION REPORT , PLEASE DO!
There is also a hard copy of this at Birnam Arts for ease of reference. It contains a summary analysis of responses to them (page 16 onwards) and an Appendix J (page 50 onwards) with 85 verbatim written comments to them (anonymised) on aspects of their Preferred Route announced in December 2023 and for each one a response from TS. We’ll have discussed this at the 31st October CG meeting and will do so again in November.
ALTHOUGH NO NAMES ARE SHOWN IN APPENDIX J, ITS VERY LIKELY THAT YOU WILL RECOGNISE YOUR OWN COMMENTS. (IT APPEARS THAT THEY ARE NOT SENDING INDIVIDUAL RESPONSES).
WE’D BE VERY INTERESTED TO KNOW IF YOU DO THIS AND IF SO WHAT YOU THINK OF THE TS RESPONSE TO YOU, OR IF YOU HAVE ANY OTHER COMMENTS ON THE REPORT. PLEASE EMAIL ALASDAIR, SEE BELOW. THIS WILL BE A GREAT HELP IN OUR FURTHER ENGAGEMENT WITH TS ABOUT THEIR PREFERRED ROUTE DESIGN.
Analysis of the results of the the A9 Community Group’s own survey of responses to the TS Preferred Route is still under way. If you still want to respond to that please see the QR code here or get a hard copy at Birnam Arts reception.
(Still only around 100 received, compared with over 700 who voted at the end of the CoCreative process in June 2018)
For all Transport Scotland contact details/links including their DMRB Stage 2 assessment and Preferred Route, see the June Bridge, also available on our A9 dualling page in the online Bridge, link below.
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 07927 175121 awylie2002@yahoo.co.uk
Our page on “The Bridge” website, including key documents for download is: http://www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk/community-council/a9-dualling
our local shops will be offering a warm welcome during their late-night opening. This will surely get us perfectly prepared for Santa Day on the next day—7th December. So please get those dates in your diary ASAP! However, before we build ourselves into a total festive frenzy, there’s the matter of tidying up the year that’s starting to draw to a close. What better way to do that than to get a few things mended at our wonderful repair café, which is celebrating its second birthday? Why not pop along to Birnam Arts on 4th November between 3:00 pm and 6:00 pm and see if they can help you out? (see page 14)
I know that many of us take this time of year to send whatever money can be spared to the many good causes out there. Many of us have causes particularly close to our hearts that we support for various reasons, and of course, we can’t support everything. However, if you can, please consider sending something to support our friends in Asheville as they start to rebuild their community following the devastation of Storm Helene (see front page and also page 12). At the bottom of that article, you’ll see that the Friends of Asheville committee has opened a relief fund to respond to the needs of our sister community, which has been so generous in supporting projects here in Dunkeld and Birnam over the years. One thing we can all do is hold them in our thoughts and prayers as they begin the huge effort of rebuilding.
Sally Robertson
Response to Community Council Facebook Post and Bridge Article
We are writing as an informal group in response to the Community Council Facebook post and Bridge article. We fully understand the wish to explore options for affordable housing in the local area. However, we also think all sides of the discussion need to be presented.
The most important issue is that the proposed Haughend development, even at the currently proposed scale, is very significant for our community. Development of the whole Haughend site, which may take place in the longer term, will radically change the scale of our community. We know that there are a wide range of views in relation to the current proposal. The Community Council has a clear obligation to ‘ascertain, co-ordinate and express to the local authorities for its area the views of the community which it represents’ and committed earlier this year to undertake community consultation with regards to the development. While recognising there are uncertainties in relation to the potential development, we would encourage the Community Council to undertake this consultation in an open and transparent manner as soon as possible.
The Community Council article refers to Arran but this is not a good comparison. The scale of the proposed Haughend development as a proportion of the current size of our community is significantly greater than each of the Arran developments. All the properties being developed by the Arran Development Trust are affordable. Unlike on Arran, the serviced plots at Haughend are part of a much larger scheme of likely more expensive, privately owned houses. Most importantly, the Arran schemes are community led- unlike the proposed Haughend development.
We need to be realistic about the value of the 23 serviced plots notionally being offered by Atholl estate and the cost of developing these serviced plots. Even having being given the land and serviced plots for free, build costs are likely to be substantial. Perhaps some of that cost can be grant funded (although the government grant scheme is under extreme financial pressure) but we need to be realistic about how much money is required to build and maintain 23 plots and whether, given these costs, this would actually deliver affordable housing. We need to understand these costs and present them openly for debate and discussion.
The Community Council article makes reference to other local housing initiatives including the transfer of properties from the National Trust for Scotland to Perth and Kinross Council. We should be focussing efforts on influencing PKC to amend their letting rules to focus on local people renting the former NTS properties on an ongoing basis. These are actual houses which exist today which can provide affordable housing for local people in the long term. Secondly, buying low-cost existing properties in the area and refurbishing them will be much lower cost than new build houses (even with VAT being charged on refurbishment costs). Community led, small scale developments in appropriate sites round the area are also possible. As a community, we need to look at a broad range of solutions to our local housing needs rather than focussing on a single large scale development. The signatories to this article are writing in a personal capacity and not on behalf of any organisation of which they are a member.
Maggie Green, Alex Kettles, Stuart Paton, Mike Wolf
Arts News
Birnam Arts:
Concerts & Events • Café • Shop • Gallery • Beatrix Potter Station Road, Birnam PH8 0DS 01350 727 674
Tickets and details: www.birnamarts.com
WHAT’S ON AT BIRNAM ARTS
Experimental Art-Publishing Exhibition
Dr Louisa Preston
Until Sun 24th November
Understand how small-press and self-publishing practices create a sense of place and identity for individuals and communities in rural and remote Scotland.
The Firelight Trio
Friday 8th November 7.30pm - Tickets: £18*
The Firelight Trio play European music that is evocative, inventive, and endlessly exciting. Ruth’s resonant Nyckelharpa is matched by Gavin’s powerhouse Fiddle, all backed up by Phil’s groovily inventive Accordion and Piano, in a rich tapestry of lively Swedish polskas and Scottish reels, lilting French waltzes, toe-tapping Klezmer, dazzling original tunes and more!
Robin Adams
Friday 15th November 7.30pm
Tickets: £12*
Hailing from a rich Scottish musical heritage, singer-songwriter and guitarist Robin Adams, carries the torch passed on by his parents, Chris and Pauline Adams, the driving forces behind 1970s folk rock ensemble String Driven Thing. Since 2009, Adams has released seven full-length albums, ranging from his evocative debut Down to Reverie to his 2021 foray into American Country and Blues, Wrong Road Home.
Dunkeld & Strathspey Reel Society Concert and Ceilidh
Saturday 16th November 7.30pm
Tickets: Various - see website
The concert and ceilidh promises an evening filled with the vibrant tunes of Highland Perthshire, played by talented musicians who are dedicated to preserving and sharing this rich heritage. This family-friendly event will also feature the Dunkeld and Birnam Traditional Youth Group as guest performers.
St
Andrew’s Night Fundraiser Ceilidh
Saturday 30th November 8pm
Tickets £10*
A Warning to the Curious
Friday 22nd November 7pm
Tickets: £12*
Nunkie Theatre Company presents A Warning to the Curious – Two Ghost Stories by M R James, performed by Robert Lloyd Parry.
M R James first wrote his ghost stories to perform to friends in Kings College Cambridge. Now, 120 years after their first publication, Nunkie Theatre Company have bought two of the eeriest and most entertaining back to life in this gripping, candlelit one-man show.
The Nutcracker – Birnam Ballet School
Wed 27th/Thurs 28th November 5.30pm
Tickets: Various-see website
Step into a wondrous world of enchantment and magic this holiday season with Birnam Arts Ballet School’s spellbinding production of The Nutcracker that’s sure to captivate audiences of all ages.
Birnam Brew + Blether
Birnam Arts Centre - Dance and Drama Studio
Wednesdays 1.45pm-3.15pm
Commencing Wednesday 6th November
Connect with your community in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, hosted by Alzheimer Scotland. Join us for tea, coffee, cake and chat. This is an opportunity to learn more about dementia and the support and services available within North Perthshire and hear from invited guests with North Perthshire specific knowledge. There will be a suggested donation of £2 to cover refreshments. Contact Emilia Parr with any questions on 07584 408392 or at eparr@alzscot.org
TASTER DAY
Saturday 30th November 11:30am - 1:30pm at Birnam Arts
Come and try guitar, whistle and fiddle at our taster day. We’ll have short workshops for each different instrument for complete beginners aged P5 – S6 and you can try out as many of these as you like.
Guitar workshops will be lead by Liam Mannion, Whistle workshops by Munro Gauld and fiddle workshops by Karys Watt. Booking is essential so if you’d like to come along you can get in touch with us via the contact details below.
Plans for expanding tuition for other instruments are underway so watch this space for news about extra classes. This does mean that we’re on the look out for guitars of all sizes, so if you have any hanging around your home and would like them to be put to good use, we’ll happily take them.
Our current classes for fiddle and piano-accordion and band sessions run weekly during term–time at Birnam Arts for anyone aged P5 – S6. It’s completely free and we provide the instruments at no cost.
Our junior and senior bands are for those who can already play at least a little, and we welcome accordion, fiddle, viola, cello, wind and brass players, guitarists, pianists and more to join in with our musical adventures.
½ hour group lessons - Mondays 4-6pm
Junior trad band (P5-S2) - Mondays 6:30-7:30pm
Senior trad band (S3-S6) - Mondays 7:30-8:30pm
Get ready for a fun-filled evening of lively Scottish ceilidh dancing and vibrant music at Birnam Arts with Rohallion and supporti your local arts charity - Birnam Arts!
See website for workshops and more: Birnamarts.com / 01350 727674
* Denotes Booking Fee
Dunkeld & Birnam Traditional Youth Music Group
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, Enchanted Forest for their funding, and all of the local residents and groups who have generously donated money and instruments.
Our local community has already given tremendous support and encouragement through donating instruments, time and money, attending concerts and involving us in local events. We couldn’t ask for more.
Find us at www.facebook.com/dbtradgroup
Email dbtradgroup@gmail.com or call 07958 324 766 for more info.
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
The Kiln Creative
The Kiln Creative
Late Autumn Fair 17th November - 10am-4pm
Weekend Workshops: Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd September
6 Week Block: 18th September to 23rd October
Unit 5, Cally Industrial Estate, Dunkeld Pottery, Flea and Prints from The Kiln Creative Pottery, Cara Guthrie Ceramics, Rachael Cocker & Erica Taylor Low Christmas pottery class dates coming soon
Private group classes available to book
For more information and bookings: www.thekilncreativepottery.co.uk
For more information and bookings: www.thekilncreativepottery.co.uk
Fraser Mills - NICEIC registered All domestic and commercial work undertaken Tel: 07545 078968
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.
Lyndsey Douglas
Local Jewellery Designer and Maker
ornaichjewellery com
ornaich jewellery@gmail com
Òrnaich Jewellery
ornaich jewellery
Posts, Rails and slats
Ranch Boards, Garden
Sleepers -Various sizes
Mon-Fri 8.00am to 5.00pm
Sat 10.00am to 11.00am
Loose Bark and Woodchip Elaine Bur ns Podiatr y HCPC
Glack Dog Kennels
Heated Kennels Day & Long Term Stays
Raise your level of wellness, reduce pain, stress/anxiety & re-align where you are in life. Health & Wellbeing Hub
Elizabeth & Keith Lumsden 01350 728849
E-mail: bizzabooks@gmail.com
pennybaird5@icloud.com Little Dunkeld • 07342 979393 Zerobalancinguk.org
Three Churches Charity Shop
High Street Dunkeld
Elaine
gapdunkeld@gmail.com
This space could be selling for you! Contact t he Advertising Manager adverts@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk 07967 117149
If you are interested in volunteering, please enquire in the shop for more info.
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
6
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.’ For more details see: www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk/sport
Dalguise Meditation Group
Meditation has all sorts of benefits – increased focus and calmness, the opportunity to see things from a different perspective, a greater feeling of freedom and harmony, among many others. Whether you have never tried meditation before, or whether you have an established practice, why not come to one of our meetings and find out what we do?
Meetings take place every other Tuesday in Dalguise Village Hall from 10.30 to 12.30. In November, the meetings are on 5th and 19th. We enjoy sitting and walking meditations, discussions and refreshments. There are no charges, no formalities and we have no religious affiliations.
If you aren’t able to attend in person, you might be interested in going on our mailing list, to receive interesting and helpful articles about meditation and mindful living, on the intervening Tuesdays. If you would like to know more about our meetings or about meditation in general, please do contact faithanstey@gmail.com
Blind Skiing Achievements.
Neil Graham from Birnam and Mark Abel from Aboyne are both Army veterans and skiing partners. Neil served for 40 years with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers as an Aircraft Engineer and Mark for 12 years in the Royal Corps of Transport/Royal Logistic Corps. They ski with the Armed Forces Para-Snowsport Team (AFPST) and the Visually Impaired Veterans Ski Club (VIVSC). In January 2011 Mark’s life changed forever in a matter of hours following a catastrophic attack of optic neuritis in both eyes leaving him severely visually impaired/ blind.
Mark is registered blind and Neil is his ski guide. Mark states: “Skiing with VIVSC in 2012 Neil saw something in my skiing and in 2015 he introduced me to racing with AFPST. This was the start of a great journey, training in the UK and the Austrian Alps. In January 2017 following a medical I was granted a paralympic alpine race licence in time for the first races that week. However, the joy soon turned to immense grief and sadness following the tragic death of my son Sam aged 14 having taken his own life.
The day before his funeral my wife Anita was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
My ski Racing career had finished before it started. Neil got me back on skis in 2019 but I still wasn’t in the game, he hadn’t given up and got me skiing again in 2021. I was now getting my mojo back. More skiing followed in 2022 ending the season competing in Winter Park, Colorado.
Big thanks to AFPST, VIVSC and my trusted guide Neil who has made all this possible.”
In Winter Park, Colorado in March they won a silver medal, then 2x golds and a silver in the Parallel Lines competition, run by Snowsport Scotland held throughout the summer at indoor centres in England (Glasgow is now closed). They have now been selected to represent UK at the forthcoming Invictus Games in Whistler, Canada.
AFPST and VIVSC are all-volunteer, independent service charities who use para-snowsports as a means to support and accelerate the recovery of wounded, injured and sick military personnel and veterans. To help these two amazing charities:
The Visually Impaired Veterans Ski Club Armed Forces Para-Snowsport Team they both have their own specific Just Giving accounts where donations would be gratefully received.
Breadalbane & District Riding for the Disabled (SCO47991)
Riding ended for the year with the autumn half-term break. Unfortunately the last day was a very soggy cold day so no riding was possible but a treasure hunt for grooming equipment around the large barn provided much entertainment with riders being reminded of the their uses etc.
Petra (our regional coach) paid us a second visit to test Sinead for becoming a coach. Sinead was marked as being ‘outstanding’ and the group as a whole received high praise. A satisfactory end to the riding year. We now have 4 superb coaches which gives excellent cover for illness or holidays but we would dearly like to grow our pool of volunteers to give flexibility. It is such a rewarding experience helping the riders discover totally new horizons and no experience with horses is necessary with informal training sessions being given. We operate on Monday mornings during the summer and early autumn school terms. If you could offer us some time please do get in touch with Vicky on 07786 262329 or email breadalbanerda@gmail.com.
Our AGM is going to be held on Monday 18th November in the Farragon room of the Church of Scotland hall, Aberfeldy. The meeting will be from 10-11.30 and will then be followed by a social get together from 12 – 2pm with light refreshments being served. We look forward to welcoming anyone who would like to join us. To help the catering please could you contact Vicky as above if you intend to come.
Despite no more riding until April next year, we are still very much on the look out for another pony along side the three we are already lent. The work that the ponies are asked to do is not at all onerous but it can be very useful exercise in keeping a retired pony going. One of our ponies is over 30 and still very much enjoying life . If anyone has (or knows of) a suitable pony of 13hh or more please do contact Vicky.
Dunkeld and Birnam District Leisure Group AGM
The 2024 AGM of the Leisure Group (The Sports Hall Project) will be held on Monday 11th November at the Community Co Working Space at 730pm. All welcome!
If you are interested in discussing future indoor provision for sports and leisure activities for the community but cannot attend, please contact the Secretary, Alasdair Wylie on awylie2002@yahoo.co.uk or 07927 175121
Sports, Health and Wellbeing
Michael Robertson Plasterer Plaster & Cement work
All types of Cornice work and Ceramic Tiling 20 Stell Park, Birnam PH8 0QA 01350 727694 • 07742 091269 miketheplasterer@hotmail.co.uk
DUNKELD BUILDERS LTD
New Builds, Extensions, Renovations and Restorations, Stonework, Drainage, Groundworks and jobbing. Contact: 01350 727320
Whatever reason you have to choose a gift or something special for yourself or your home, it should be a JOYful process. Choosing a gift can be fraught, however we’d encourage you to add a bit of JOY into the process by exploring the many fabulous gift ideas found on Perthshire Artisans website, www. perthshire-artisans.scot
There are original artworks, everyday and showpiece ceramics for the home, decorative glass art and mosaics, an amazing selection of prints in all styles, cosy knitwear, leather goods, naturally scented candles, card selections, unusual Harris Tweed® clothing items, willow woven accessories, handturned bowls and beautiful unique jewellery.
Perthshire Artisans is a collective of 36 artists and makers all creating original and beautifully crafted artworks and gifts. Set up and supported by GrowBiz Scotland, the platform showcases and promotes the Artisans work and skills, whilst also supporting them in running their small business and facilitating peer support, a really valuable benefit when you’re busy working on your own.
There’s additional seasonal JOY when you know you’re buying and supporting a small local business, finding a sustainably produced piece and discovering an unusual gift idea which is well made, often one of a kind, and comes with it’s own story.
Perthshire Artisans is also exclusively showcasing at the Perthshire Artisans Winter Exhibition at Birnam Arts from 30 November. EnJOY buying better, buying from a small local business and finding something distinctive to gift, for any reason.
Work and Business Support Community News
Flute and Piano Lessons Available
I am Emilia Parr and I am a musician who has recently relocated to the area. I am a graduate of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and am an experienced music educator, with extensive experience teaching all ages and abilities. I offer personalised, one-on-one music tuition tailored to each student’s needs and goals. I am happy to teach at my home just outside Dunkeld or come to you. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to advance, I’d love to support you on your musical journey!
Contact Emilia on 07786693526 or emilia.parr@gmail.com
Do
Feel
Festive
Linda Farquharson
Wellbeing Training
Community Developments
Development Trust
As usual, the Development Trust work continues on a range of fronts.
We had a meeting with the Community Council in September- this was a useful forum to clarify the
roles and responsibilities of each group, to make sure we don’t duplicate efforts and to agree allocation of specific actions. It was also a good opportunity to get
to know each other better.
At the meeting, we agreed that the Community Council would progress any issues it deems appropriate in relation to Haughend. The Trust has been clear that it is not taking a position regarding Haughend until the view of the whole community has been more clearly established. The current Trust board believe that this is a planning issue which should be considered in the next development plan - LDP 3 - for our area.
The recent Community Council Facebook posting and article in this issue of the Bridge represent the views of the Community Council and not those of the Development Trust.
The Trust in the process of setting up the new Community Led Housing Group. This group will explore a number of ideas including purchasing existing properties and small housing projects. We are looking for more people to join the group, particularly people with direct knowledge or experience in relation to the issues around affordable housing. If you want to find out more please contact Beth via dbdcdt@ gmail.com We will provide updates on the work of the group over the coming months.
Day of Older People celebrations. Over 12 groups were represented and over 30 people attended, there was a positive buzz in the room throughout the event. Thanks very much to Birnam Arts for being such great hosts and looking after us so well.
Artisan Village Update
Trust AGM
The 2025 Trust AGM will take place on Monday 25th November 2024 at the Birnam Arts. A formal notification will be sent to all members. If you have any Trust related questions or suggestions please contact Beth via dbdcdt@gmail.com
Dementia Café
Please share your views on the Artisan Village via our online survey https://forms.gle/x35ES4gSSqy5Z2kGA or scan the QR Code: Paper versions available on request –please email dunkeldmakers@gmail. com We are holding a community consultation event on Saturday 2nd November as part of the Community Land Festival. Come along and speak to us in St Ninian’s Garden between 2.00 and 4.00pm and find out all about our Community Asset Transfer journey so far!
THE PLANT NURSERY KINDALLACHAN
https://www.communitylandscotland.org.uk/event/ dunkeld-birnam-district-community-developmenttrust-artisan-village-open-afternoon/ Local Place Plan Progress
West Countlich Farm, Kindallachan, Near Ballinliug, PH9 0NW SEPTEMBER SALE
Saturday 21st September 9.00am - 4.30pm HUGE REDUCTIONS
We have had extensive feedback and comments from people at Birnam Games and the recent Community Fayre which have been added to the maps. We are refining the questionnaire and hope you will use the attached QR code to identify areas in the community which you feel need to be improved, protected or developed.
How to find us: turn off the A9 at Kindallachan and follow the signs to the nursery. 07554 008058 nursery@alexbutter.co.uk www.alexbutter.co.uk
We also hope to meet some of you at group activities to discuss the issues which concern you. The main topics emerging so far are safe and active travel and parking round the villages, affordable housing, use of green spaces, environmental awareness and protection, energy, use and protection of buildings- you are encourage add your own ideas about how we could improve our local area. Please look at the questionnaire and complete any areas of interest to you.
In October we welcomed many more people than ever before to our Awareness Day. This photograph shows the many caring people representing organisations who help carers and those they support in our community, whether with financial knowledge, legal matters, housing, or general advice about living with someone with dementia
In addition to our regulars, we welcomed a group of students to witness how we have created a safe environment in our monthly cafe. Inviting them on
This is your chance to tell Perth and Kinross Council what you would like to happen in your community!
WRAP
Free
Do
Care
The Care Group is very pleased to announce that they easily beat their fundraising target of £1,500. Well done to Eilidh and John (and their co-adventurers) and thank you to everyone who supported this effort.
Community
Many thanks to all the community groups who joined us for our Community Fayre as part of International
Live or work in a stressful environment?
Dog Chaperone for Weddings Ad Hoc / One Off Dog Walks for One Household at a time Day or up to 1 Night Dog Sitting Cat and Hen Visits 07774 294610 Hello@solopaws.co.uk On Facebook and Instagram
Feel overwhelmed, exhausted or unsatisfied with life? Want to be proactive in supporting your wellbeing? Join us for a two-day free WRAP® workshop to self-reflect, learn skills and build an action plan for early intervention and prevention, to support your
Feel overwhelmed, or unsatisfied with Want to be proactive supporting your
Parkinson’s, MS, brain injuries, or anybody who would like support in a safe and welcoming environment with their family, caregivers and friends.
If you would like to book a place on this Worrkshop
Glack Dog Kennels
Heated Kennels Day & Long Term Stays Elizabeth & Keith Lumsden 01350 728849 E-mail: bizzabooks@gmail.com
Join us for a two day free WRAP® workshop to self-reflect,
to Saturday, 10am - 4pm
If you are interested in volunteering, please enquire in the shop for more info. Sale
Street, Perth from 2-4pm. This Cafe caters for those with dementia,
and Wellbeing Hub, Dunkeld & Birnam Guidehall,
Thought for the Month
Recently I have been reflecting about life’s comings and goings; I laugh at myself often as I say ‘I never know where I am as I stay in two homes’. Pilgrimage comes to my mind , journeying just to experience the journey and perhaps to learn a little more about one’s self in the process of returning from that journey.
Returning is a journey in time not a destination. The return is not an ending, it is part of life’s cycle I was, I am, and I shall always be returning and departing.
Through the ebbs and flows of time, I find my way back. Each step I take, each breath I breathe Leads me closer to where I once was
A familiar place, a distant memory
A part of me that I can’t erase
I walk through the streets I used to know
The faces I once loved, now strangers
But still, there is a connection
A bond that can’t be broken by time, I see the trees that once whispered secrets to me
The river that carried my dreams away I hear the echoes of laughter and tears
The voices of the past calling out to me
Returning is not just a physical journey
It is a journey of the soul
A rediscovery of all that I am
All that I have been, and all that I will be;
I find pieces of myself scattered along the way Memories tucked away in hidden corners
Emotions buried deep within my heart
Longing to be unearthed and felt once more I am the sum of all my returns.
Each journey shaping me, molding me Into the person I am today
And the person I will become tomorrow. I embrace each return with open arms
Ready to rediscover, to relearn
To grow and evolve with each step I take For returning is not an end, but a beginning Pilgrimage; a continuation of the endless cycle of life
A journey that never truly ends
For I am always returning and departing Forever moving forward, forever coming back.
Psalm 84:
Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.
Lesley-Ann
Priest in charge of St Mary’s Birnam
Church of Scotland Services
November 3rd. 11am. - Morning Service in the Cathedral.
6.30pm – Prayers for Help & Healing in Little Dunkeld
November 10th. 10.45am – Remembrance Service in the Cathedral.
Please not the earlier start time.
This will be the last Sunday service in the Cathedral for the year.
12.30pm Act of remembrance at the War Memorial.
The main ceremony will be down at the roadside so that those who aren’t able to climb up to the memorial can attend.
November 17th. 11.00am – Morning Worship in Little Dunkeld Kirk 2.15pm – Communion Service at Amulree
November 24th. 11.00am – Morning Worship in Little Dunkeld Kirk
December 1st. 11.00am – Communion Service in Little Dunkeld Kirk 1st. Sunday in Advent
Tea and coffee are served after the morning service each week – after services in the cathedral that is in the Chanonry and in Little Dunkeld, it is in the church.
Prayers for Help & Healing
On the first Sunday of the month there is a short service 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 on November 3rd, in Little Dunkeld Kirk then on December 1st. in St. Mary’s All welcome from any church or none.
Alpha
Interested in exploring openly the basics of Christianity? The Wednesday Worship group is running Alpha over the next couple of months. Themes are introduced by a video then through friendly, open conversations different aspects of belief and faith will be explored. There will be a chance to share your thoughts and hear what others think. You can say anything you like, or nothing at all. Everyone is welcome no matter your background or beliefs. Meetings are in the Chanonry on Wednesdays and start with a light meal at 7pm with the video and discussion session starting at 7.30pm.
For more information contact Fraser Penny on 01350 727249, or Calum & Kirsty Leese on 07925 550412 or 07854 211892
Kirk Session
The next regular meeting of the Kirk Session is on November 12th. at 7.30pm. in the Duchess Anne.
Fellowship Group
Fellowship Group – ‘Exploring faith and life together’ Two Fellowship Groups meet, fortnightly, one on a Tuesday evening at 7pm and the other on Wednesday mornings at 10.30am, both in the Chanonry. This
session we will be studying Paul’s letter to the Philippians. The dates for the next few weeks are: Tuesday group – November 12th & 26th. Wednesday group – November 13th & 27th. If you find it difficult to come in person, it is possible to join by this zoom link:
Meeting ID: 898 7502
Passcode: 809745
Men’s Breakfast
The smell of bacon and sausages will once again be wafting out of the Chanonry as the Men’s Breakfast gets started again. It starts at 9am and meets fortnightly. Upcoming dates are November 13th & 27th. There is no need to book; just turn up and enjoy and all are welcome
Harvest Appeal
Every year the Kirk Session asks members to support a particular charity as part of our Harvest Thanksgiving celebrations. This year we have chosen a local group which has been developed over recent years to provide extra support at home for people who need it – whether that is simply a befriending service or more in-depth personal care. John Gilruth, who heads up this group, writes:
The current model of providing care to older and disabled people is simply unable to keep up with the level of demand as we live longer lives, nor is funding able to keep up. PH8 Caring Support is coming up with local solutions where local people are encouraged to become professional carers or Personal Assistants (PA) or to become volunteers to visit people in their own homes.
PH8 Caring Support exists to promote the role of PA and volunteer Befriender, to find out who in the community needs support around the home and to put them in touch with each other. There are some Personal Assistants out there, but very often the people who need them don’t know how to get support. The local Coordinator, Eilidh Wild, is making it her business to find out who is out there already and who needs support. But we know there aren’t enough of them yet to ensure that folk who want to stay in their own homes can get the support they need, hence the need to keep promoting and supporting the role of the PA.
Our harvest offering will go to raise funds to develop this worthwhile project further. Any support, large or small, will be very much appreciated.
You can make a donation to the Appeal by bank transfer to the Church Account with the reference ‘Harvest’ Sort code 80-06-57 Account number 00723183
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
Three Churches in the Community Church Services and Contacts:
Kirk Session
The next regular meeting of the Kirk Session is on August 13th. at 7.30pm. The venue is still to be decided.
Scottish Episcopal Church:
St Mary’s Birnam at 10am. Every Sunday.
Church Services and Contacts:
The Meeting Place
Kirk Session
The Meeting Place is in the Duchess Anne on Friday mornings from 10 – 12noon and will run up until the Art Exhibition starts. All welcome.
The next regular meeting of the Kirk Session is on August 13th. at 7.30pm. The venue is still to be decided.
Roman Catholic: St Columba’s, Mass 6pm. Every Saturday
Scottish Episcopal Church:
Follow us on Facebook at: 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
The Meeting Place
Fellowship Group –
‘Exploring
faith and life together’
The Meeting Place is in the Duchess Anne on Friday mornings from 10 – 12noon and will run up until the Art Exhibition starts. All welcome.
The two Fellowship Groups ended the current sessions with a meal together on June 19th. They will both start up again in the Autumn.
Fellowship Group –‘Exploring faith and life together’
Youth Group / Messy Music
The two Fellowship Groups ended the current sessions with a meal together on June 19th. They will both start up again in the Autumn.
Both of these have stopped now over the summer and will start again in the Autumn.
Booking Halls
Youth Group / Messy Music
Both of these have stopped now over the summer and will start again in the Autumn.
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
Local Pilgrim Walks
Booking Halls
Two local reflective walks have been set up by the Cathedral Pilgrimage team.
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
Local Pilgrim Walks
Two local reflective walks have been set up by the Cathedral Pilgrimage team.
These walks are gentle reflective walks which allow for times of silence, of prayer and gentle conversations. Walkers have commented that ‘It was peaceful, interesting and thought provoking’ , ‘wonderful, spiritual, leisurely paced’. The walks are gently guided by one of the team. We hope to have material ready for self guided walks in the near future. There are two walks -
These walks are gentle reflective walks which allow for times of silence, of prayer and gentle conversations. Walkers have commented that ‘It was peaceful, interesting and thought provoking’ , ‘wonderful, spiritual, leisurely paced’. The walks are gently guided by one of the team. We hope to have material ready for self guided walks in the near future.
There are two walks -
St Colme’s Walk which is the longer of the two and will last around three hrs. It includes one short steepish path so good footwear is advised! The walk takes you along the River Tay, then up through the woods to Polney Loch and on to St Colme’s Well. It starts and finishes in the Cathedral grounds. Birnam Oak Walk: This is the short walk and will take just under two hrs and takes you over the bridge to the orchard, then follow the river to the famous Oak and comes back via St Mary’s church where there is time for quiet reflection.
The next walks will be
St Colme’s Walk which is the longer of the two and will last around three hrs. It includes one short steepish path so good footwear is advised! The walk takes you along the River Tay, then up through the woods to Polney Loch and on to St Colme’s Well. It starts and finishes in the Cathedral grounds.
Saturday 14th September 10am 3 hrs to St Colm’s Well starting in the Cathedral Grounds
Friday 27th September 10am 1.5 hrs to the Birnam Oak starting in the Cathedral Grounds
Birnam Oak Walk: This is the short walk and will take just under two hrs and takes you over the bridge to the orchard, then follow the river to the famous Oak and comes back via St Mary’s church where there is time for quiet reflection.
The next walks will be
For further information please contact Rosie Mackie at rosiemackie2@gmail.com
The Local Pilgrim Walks will take a break over the winter months. Look out here for the new dates in the Spring.
Saturday 14th September 10am 3 hrs to St Colm’s Well starting in the Cathedral Grounds
3 Churches Charity Shop
Friday 27th September 10am 1.5 hrs to the Birnam Oak starting in the Cathedral Grounds
For further information please contact Rosie Mackie at rosiemackie2@gmail.com
The 3 Churches Charity is doing very well indeed, both in sales and in valuable donations. A huge thank you to those who buy, those who donate and those who volunteer.
Sometimes we may receive a lot of clothes donations all at once, and when this happens, because of limited storage space, we may need to ask for your understanding if we cannot accept your clothes donations for a couple of weeks. So, thank you for your patience.
3 Churches Charity Shop
The 3 Churches Charity is doing very well indeed, both in sales and in valuable donations. A huge thank you to those who buy, those who donate and those who volunteer.
Our customers continue to tell us how much they love our shop and recently they add that they like the way it is laid out too. This is useful to us. Thank you for your feedback. We would really appreciate one new type of volunteersomeone who is used to selling on Ebay... this would only be needed a few times a year. If you can help, please contact our Chairman Anne Graham on 07751593421.
Sometimes we may receive a lot of clothes donations all at once, and when this happens, because of limited storage space, we may need to ask for your understanding if we cannot accept your clothes donations for a couple of weeks. So, thank you for your patience.
Weekly Services
Church of Scotland:
Dunkeld Cathedral at 11am.
Our customers continue to tell us how much they love our shop and recently they add that they like the way it is laid out too. This is useful to us. Thank you for your feedback. We would really appreciate one new type of volunteersomeone who is used to selling on Ebay... this would only be needed a few times a year. If you can help, please contact our Chairman Anne Graham on 07751593421.
Every Sunday from Easter Sunday to Remembrance Sunday. Little Dunkeld Kirk at 11am.
Weekly Services
Every Sunday from the Sunday following Remembrance Sunday to Palm Sunday
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
St Mary’s Birnam at 10am. Every Sunday.
Monthly and Occasional Services
Follow us on Facebook at: St Bride’s RC Church, Pitlochry We celebrate the presence of the Risen Lord amongst us during these Masses:
The Chanonry, 07808 703641 email: office@dunkeldcathedral.org www.dunkeldcathedral.org
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.
St Mary's Episcopal Church, Birnam
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.
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 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
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.
I can also be found dwelling nr Loch Ness 01456486663
Treasurer: Charles Cox
The Rector: Reverend Lesley-Ann Craddock Priest in Charge of St Mary’s Birnam and Dunkeld
Vestry Secretary: Adrian Freer
St Mary’s rectory, St Mary’s Rd, Birnam, PH8 0BJ Tel: 07903 020509 email: lesley.craddock@btinternet.com
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.
Roman Catholic Churches
Parish Priest: Fr Emmanuel Adindu MSP
(Missionary of St Paul)
Tel: 01796 472 174
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.
Email: stbridespitlochry@dunkelddiocese.org.uk
Parish Priest:
Fr Emmanuel Adindu MSP
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.
(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.
9.30 am Wednesday, Thursday, Friday - Pitlochry Holy days of Obligation:9.30am Birnam
Sunday 9.30 am Our Lady of Mercy Aberfeldy
Sunday 11.30 am St Bride’s Pitlochry
12.30pm Aberfeldy
6.00pm Pitlochry
Weekday Masses:9.30 am Tuesday - Aberfeldy
9.30 am Wednesday, Thursday, Friday - Pitlochry
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available prior to mass in St Columba’s. Please phone Father to arrange it.
Holy days of Obligation:9.30am Birnam
12.30pm Aberfeldy
6.00pm Pitlochry
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.
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.
Squash those money worries this September
September is often a month of change. Whether you’re sending your kids back to school, heading off to university, or preparing for higher energy bills over the winter, change usually comes with cost. Here are some tips on saving money this September. Starting university?
is creeping up on us
I know! It’s a bit early to be thinking about Christmas, or is it?
The freedom that comes with moving away and starting university is exciting, but finances can soon spiral out of control. Visit capuk.org/budgeting for help creating a budget, so that you can make sure there’s money allocated for fun and social activities as well as important costs like food and rent.
September is often a month of change. Whether you’re sending your kids back to school, heading off to university, or preparing for higher energy bills over the winter, change usually comes with cost. Here are some tips on saving money this September.
Starting university?
Back to school?
Despite Christmas being on the same date every year, it always seems to creep up on us earlier and earlier? No sooner is summer over than the stores start filling their seasonal aisles with Christmas chocolates. The shops are well prepared but are we? Here are some tips to help.
Making a list saves money
If you’re struggling with the cost of school uniform, get in touch with your child’s school to find out what support they can offer. Schools are legally required by the Department for Education (DfE) to make sure their uniforms are affordable for all students. This includes allowing supermarket own-brand options and making second-hand uniforms available. Buying from any store as opposed to a designated shop or school could save parents around £50 on average, says the DfE. There is also preloved uniform for free in the Locus Center.
The freedom that comes with moving away and starting university is exciting, but finances can soon spiral out of control. Visit capuk.org/budgeting for help creating a budget, so that you can make sure there’s money allocated for fun and social activities as well as important costs like food and rent. Back to school?
No matter how stunningly beautiful the shop displays look or how effective the TV adverts are, don’t let yourself get sucked in by Christmas advertising. You may need to be strict with yourself. Think about making a budget.
Planning for Christmas?
If you’re struggling with the cost of school uniform, get in touch with your child’s school to find out what support they can offer. Schools are legally required by the Department for Education (DfE) to make sure their uniforms are affordable for all students. This includes allowing supermarket own-brand options and making second-hand uniforms available. Buying from any store as opposed to a designated shop or school could save parents around £50 on average, says the DfE. There is also preloved uniform for free in the Locus Center.
Planning for Christmas?
First, consider how much you really need to spend. Make a list and stick to it. If you haven’t got much money don’t feel obliged to spend it just because it’s Christmas. Sticking to the list helps you stick to your budget.
In the run up to Christmas could you buy one or two presents a week to take advantage of special offers? But remember to stick to your list!
Celebrations like Christmas can be great, but they’re never worth getting into unmanageable debt for. 16th September marks 100 days until Christmas Day and there’s nothing wrong with planning ahead. The closer we get to December; the higher prices will creep for festive ‘must-haves’ like toys and the latest tech. If you know there’s something you want to buy, it’s worth starting to shop around now, before prices go up. Make a list and tick things off as you go, helping you avoid impulse buys that you don’t really need.
Feeling the cold?
Celebrations like Christmas can be great, but they’re never worth getting into unmanageable debt for. 16th September marks 100 days until Christmas Day and there’s nothing wrong with planning ahead. The closer we get to December; the higher prices will creep for festive ‘must-haves’ like toys and the latest tech. If you know there’s something you want to buy, it’s worth starting to shop around now, before prices go up. Make a list and tick things off as you go, helping you avoid impulse buys that you don’t really need.
Consider how much you can realistically save between now and Christmas. Saving can be tough, but remember, a little is better than nothing especially when your income is low and money is tight already. £1 a day between now (1 Nov) and Christmas week would amount to around £50.
Managing the cost of Christmas
Feeling the cold?
As the colder weather approaches, and with the cost of energy still high, we’re all looking for ways to save. According to the Energy Saving Trust, limiting showers to four minutes could save households up to £70 a year, and avoiding using the tumble dryer could reduce costs by up to £75 a year, depending on where in the UK you live. For more advice, visit energysavingtrust.org.uk.
Thinking longer term?
As the colder weather approaches, and with the cost of energy still high, we’re all looking for ways to save. According to the Energy Saving Trust, limiting showers to four minutes could save households up to £70 a year, and avoiding using the tumble dryer could reduce costs by up to £75 a year, depending on where in the UK you live. For more advice, visit energysavingtrust.org.uk.
Thinking longer term?
Make future Septembers a little bit easier by getting into the habit of saving regularly. Even a small amount adds up and can provide a safety net in case the unexpected happens, or just help you reach your goals. It’s UK Savings Week from 9th to 15th September, with a mission to help make saving simple, easy and rewarding, whatever your circumstances. Visit uksavingsweek.co.uk for tips.
It may be worthwhile considering what Christmas really needs to cost you. Perhaps have some conversations with family members about how you will approach Christmas this year. Are you having a large family gathering? You could encourage everyone to bring a dish towards the Christmas dinner to reduce the cost. Do you need to buy presents for everyone? Perhaps you could consider doing a family secret Santa so each of you buys one gift within a set budget. This reduces the cost for each member of the family as well as perhaps cheap gifts purchased just because of the pressure to buy something for everyone.
Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity working with over 800 affiliated churches to deliver debt help, budgeting guidance, support to find work, life skills groups and more. Visit capscotland.org to find out more.
Make future Septembers a little bit easier by getting into the habit of saving regularly. Even a small amount adds up and can provide a safety net in case the unexpected happens, or just help you reach your goals. It’s UK Savings Week from 9th to 15th September, with a mission to help make saving simple, easy and rewarding, whatever your circumstances. Visit uksavingsweek.co.uk for tips.
Budgeting is for life, not just for Christmas Being prepared for any big expenses such as Christmas takes time, thought and planning but it also pays to be prepared with regular spending too.
Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity working with over 800 affiliated churches to deliver debt help, budgeting guidance, support to find work, life skills groups and more. Visit capscotland.org to find out more.
There are some great tools available for budgeting and saving. CAP Moneycoaching helps thousands of people every year to budget their money, save and spend well. Courses are run across the UK, giving people the skills to take control of their finances and stay out of debt.
12 Community History & Learning
Connect with Asheville
Hurricane Helene and It’s Impact on Asheville
Dunkeld & Biram’s Twinning City
Greetings and gratitudes to all of our Dunkeld & Birnam friends from your Twinning community of Asheville. You have lifted our spirits in this unforeseen, challenging time. So I want to provide a bit of an update for the Bridge.
Darcy and I and all of our friends are safe after this second most impactful storm in US history, although like most of western North Carolina, we have been without power, running water and reliable cellular service for almost two weeks. Power and cell service now have largely returned, but running water is much more difficult due to the complete destruction of water lines from Hurricane Helene. Yet our own problems are simply inconveniences compared to the considerable loss of life, utter decimation of small villages located along streams and rivers, destruction of homes and businesses , 400 roads closed and many bridges caved in.
The intensity and duration of the storm in our mountains, 500 miles from the coast, was unexpected, although there have been others, such as an epoch storm in 1918. But several forces coalesced to create this powerful “perfect storm of destruction”: a previous two days of drenching rains; the unusually prolonged nature of the storm over Asheville with sheets of rain falling horizontally; the many villages located on rivers and streams; sustained high winds; and the numerous winding and hilly (though scenic) roads susceptible to fallen trees and power lines.
Amidst the destruction there have been hopeful elements. Downtown Asheville, not close to a river, was largely spared (including the Dunkeld & Birnam directive mileage sign on the city green!). Likewise our nearby town of Black Mountain. The federal emergency aid agency FEMA has been everywhere in the delivery of food, water, medical supplies and clothing (and now must also contend with Hurricane Milton in Florida). Numerous other assistance programs are at work such as World Central Kitchen and Beloved Asheville. Most of all there have been countless examples of acts of generosity and kindness, people to people, much welcome in these divisive political times. And repeatedly we have witnessed the remarkable resilience of the human spirit.
The road to recovery will be long and challenging. We are reminded that Mother Nature always has the last word and that global warming is only too real and accelerating. But we also are reminded of the significant value of International Twinning/Sister City programs such ours, that bridge the miles and the seas. And we remain grateful for our Dunkeld & Birnam partners, by the Bridge across the Tay.
Our D&B Friends of Asheville committee has opened a relief fund for Asheville, whose community has been so generous in supporting projects here through the years.
If you’d like to contribute, please contact Alasdair Wylie (07927 175121) or Fiona Ritchie (07710 537969). Thank you.
Dunkeld Campus Butterstone Fire Walk Charity Fundraiser
On the 19th September we hosted a Charity Fire Walk Event at our Dunkeld Campus in Butterstone. In total, 23 brave people ranging from our CEO, teachers, support staff, head office staff, parents and supporters of our school, all chose to literally walk over hot coals to raise sponsorship money for The Jane Moore Trust.
In the lead up to our event our children and young people were busy crafting fire themed decorations and bunting, inventing and making their own carnival games, and baking delicious sweet treats. We had fire-shaped biscuits, scones, cakes, fudge and wonderful cheesecakes, all for sale. From our polytunnel the children selected the best courgettes and tomatoes we had grown and made their very own Dunkeld Campus chutney. They also picked courgettes and carrots to make an amazing sponge cake. A number of young people also decorated empty jars with flame inspired designs which were later filled with homemade scented candles.
We had some external stall holders join us to sell their handcrafted goods, jewellery and sweets, and the school pupils filled 7 ‘guess the number of sweet jars’, organised a tombola, and a silent auction with a variety of impressive prizes. Our amazing ‘date with a book’ stall was a great success; books were individually wrapped in paper with only the first sentence written on the front. It was great fun deciding what book to buy with only this hint!
During the event itself, our staff, volunteers, children and young people manned the stalls and encouraged people to spend, spend, spend.
Although our Deputy Head Craig Martin declined to walk over fire, after supplying hot dogs and coffee all night, he very sportingly placed his head and hands in a pillory and stayed there whilst a very long queue of pupils and staff paid to throw wet sponges at him!
We are delighted to announce that we successfully raised £12,923.10 which will directly support our services for children and young people. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated and contributed to this wonderful event.
We look forward to keeping you updated on our upcoming events, and hope to see some of you attend our future fundraisers.
If you would like to learn more about the Jane Moore Trust or Moore House Group Dunkeld campus, please visit our websites: www.janemooretrust.org.uk and www.moorehousegroup.org.uk
OPENING HOURS
Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm 12 The Cross, Dunkeld, PH8 0AN. www.historicdunkeld.org.uk archives@historicdunkeld.org.uk 01350 727786
Please welcome our newest member of staff. Funded by SSE/Griffin Community Windfarm. Liz Sutton of Ruby Tiger (a specialist heritage consultancy) joined us on October 1st. Liz will be helping us to develop the Trust and our activities, including bringing in new funding.
Talks
We are pleased to announce the following historical talks for 2024/25. Tickets (£5) are available via Eventbrite or from the Community Archive. All talks will be held in the Duchess Anne Hall monthly on a Friday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Tea/coffee & biscuits will be served afterwards, giving people a chance to mingle and chat with the speaker.
08/11/24 – Mike Taylor: Bristling with Guns ~ “Oi mate, you can’t put that cannon there” 06/12/24 – Euphemia Ramsay: A Gothic Ghost Story for Solstice 14/02/25 – Dr Andrew Paterson: Christian Icons ~ Making & Meaning 14/03/25 – Paul MacLennan: Dundonnachie ~ The Man Behind the Bridge Toll Riots 11/04/25 – Lesley Wilson: Local Stories from Local People
EXHIBITION
We are gathering stories of those who served in any of the British Armed Forces who were from Dunkeld, Birnam and surrounding areas, to be displayed in the Community Archive during November. Please pop along to see the stories, or to bring along photographs or items relating to your own or family members service.
BIRNAM BOOK FESTIVAL
Legends, Lore, Stories and Song
26th & 27th October 2024 – Come and find us at the Birnam Book Festival
Mid-Week Memories Club
Is now back on a Wednesday from 3.30pm to 5pm. A lovely group of folk, reminiscing over tea/coffee & biscuits.
We do have a taxi funded, so if you need transport please get in touch.
Young Archaeologist Club (age 8 to 16)
We meet fortnightly on a Thursday during school term in the Community Archive at 4pm. The next meeting is Thursday 7th November.
If you have an interest in history and archaeology, come along !
A huge thank you to The Crannog staff who entertained and educated our young people during our trip to see their new museum and Iron Age village.
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
Head Of Moore House Group - Dunkeld Campus: Tracey Ford-McNicol walks over hot coals
Scottish Landscaping
Friendly reliable service guaranteed
Grass Cutting, Hedge Cutting, Strimming, Gravel laid, Fencing, Turfing, Slabbing, Tree Work and all General Maintenance
Free Quotes Given
Kilry: 01575 560411
Blairgowrie: 01250 798403
Mobile: 07834 258491
Environmental
At the Field
Dunkeld and Birnam community growing @the Field Brae Street will continue to have work days on Thursday and Saturday mornings through the winter months.
Many people may be surprised to learn that we harvest much of our crops over the colder months of the year, carrots,parsnips,leeks and a variety of brassica remain in the ground (unless it freezes hard) and feed us till March and we have tatties , onions and squash in store. We share this with the community by stocking a stall at the gate to the Field on Thursdays and Saturdays. There is also plenty work to be done putting plots to bed for the winter and spreading dung to be ploughed in in the Spring. We also need to clean tidy and repair tools and buildings and plan seed purchase for next year after reflecting on successes and failures this year..
We have planted cover crops on any bare soil and scythed seeding weeds on others in order to seal the ground and prevent erosion and leaching of nutrients over the winter and also reduce the spread of weeds onto our plots in Autumn winds.
We look forward to birds enjoying the seeds ,berries and shelter around our hedges and margins which we deliberately leave uncultivated to encourage biodiversity.
Coffee breaks tend to take place in the warmth of a poly- tunnel which afford a congenial venue in inclement weather.
Members are invited to the Field’s Annual General Meeting at 7pm in the Duchess Anne, Dunkeld on Friday 1st November. This will be followed by the popular Harvest Supper.
This year will follow the model we have developed in the last two years where some members volunteer to make and bring a main course or desert where possible made from field produce, though this is not essential. As usual some members help to set up before the AGM and some volunteer to clear up after the meal .
Numbers are limited for the Harvest Supper(48) due to the size of the venue and as ever it is first come first served!
We welcome new members and volunteers for information and application forms see our website https://www. dunkeldfield.co.uk/
Raymond Simpson on behalf of the trustees DB Community Growing.
Dunkeld and Birnam in Bloom
October Mondays have been wet, so we have not been out in the gardens as normal, but bedding plants are still hanging in, so it seems a shame to pull them out and replace with the Spring bulbs. That will be one of our tasks for November plus cutting back bushes and of course sweeping up the leaves in St Ninian’s.
We have been collecting the dried Allium seeds and with a bit of friendly banter attempting to pot up to hopefully get extra plants in the years to come. We will see who among us succeeds in producing flowering plants. Halloween is the time to put a couple of pumpkins in the garden and our extra helper flies in for a few days where she can be found lurking about in St Ninian’s! (see picture) Anybody who would like to come and join us in the gardens, please do. Groups can be found on a Monday morning at 10am in St Ninian’s Garden, Dunkeld and Torwood Park, Birnam.
Thank you Moira (07931 758 456)
Take a fresh look at
Dùn Coillich!
New website showcases transformation
If you haven’t been up to Dùn Coillich for a while – and maybe you’ve never had chance to visit – now’s the time to take a look around!
Thanks to a brand new website you can now see the transformation of the hillside outside Aberfeldy at the touch of a button (www.duncoillich.org), and explore the walking, training and volunteering opportunities on offer.
Dùn Coillich – managed by the Highland Perthshire Community Land Trust – is home to a community-owned landscape regeneration and rural skills training project, and has become one of the jewels in the crown of Highland Perthshire.
Once a deer farm on the eastern shoulder of Schiehallion, the site by Glengoulandie has welcomed hundreds of volunteers, visitors and trainees since a community buyout in 2002 – the first of its kind in the region.
Years of tree planting, habitat creation, path maintenance and natural regeneration – combined with a dedicated education and volunteering programme – has transformed the site into a haven for wildlife and visitors alike.
The Kiln Creative
The new website makes it even easier to get directions, access information about the many species which now call Dùn Coillich home, find out about walks and talks, and sign up for training courses and volunteering opportunities.
“Anyone who has had any involvement in Dùn Coillich and the Highland Perthshire Communities Land Trust over the years can be rightly proud of what we’ve achieved together,” says Heather Hamilton, Project Officer. “This new website gives us chance to share our history and look forward to our future – the before and after pictures in the timeline show just what’s possible!”
Tempted to find out more? Join us at our Autumn Gathering on Saturday 2nd November from 2pm to 5pm. Everyone welcome for a bite to eat, whatever the weather! Visit www.duncoillich.org/whats-on for information or email Heather at projectofficer@hpclt.org
Weekend Workshops: Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd September
Big Apple and Juicing Day at the Community Orchard
Our largest crowd of adults and children eagerly gathered at the opening of Big Apple Day. They were particularly fascinated by the juicing process. We thought readers might be interested in the various stages:
1. The apples are tipped into the mill and come out as pulp.
2. The pulp is put in the hydro press. This ingenious method uses a mains water supply to inflate a bladder that exerts pressure on your fruit and presses it from the inside outward.
The juice is strained into a large container.
3. The juice is funnelled into a large canister which has a tap.
4. The finished product. Some people brought their own containers. But many more took a drink from our clean wash-and-use-again jam jars, and some took a closed jam jar away with them. Just a warning - our apple juice is not pasteurised, so needs to be drunk right away. To pasteurise your own, heat up to 70 degrees for at least 2 minutes.
*If you are interested in hiring the equipment please contact dunkeldbirnamorchard@gmail.com
Following the excitement of the juicing and tasting, the youngest visitors migrated to the well equipped activities table, while others were equally impressed with the array of home baking.
There were also some serious harvesting groups who picked a good quantity of Bramley cookers and used the picking pole to bring down some of the eaters such as the curiously named Bloody Ploughman. It was a busy day for both orchardeers and visitors, but there were quiet moments too when people were able to sit and chat and listen to the quiet strains of the small pipes. We were so lucky with the weather and we are incredibly grateful to the generosity of our visitors whose donations helped to refill our depleted coffers.
Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam, Crocosmia, pink purslane, Italian arum etc), diseases and pathogens (like ash dieback) are spreading; beavers are back after 400 years, and making use of, particularly, the riverside beech trees.
The Group, and The National Trust for Scotland, has made a small start to ensure the amenity of this area is maintained by removing some of the invasive snowberry and replanting with native trees like rowan and holly. We plan to continue this as well as the balsam control, protect selected trees from beaver gnawing, and consider options for improving the path surfaces.
Gardening and Growing Club
Whether you potter with a few pots or garden an acre you are very welcome at our friendly Gardening and Growing club. £20 annual membership acox325@gmail.com Everyone welcome – first meeting FREE. Please come along and ‘try out’ being a member.
The Gardening and Growing Club is a group for anyone interested in learning more about a wide range of matters to do with gardening and growing in a relaxed environment where you can also chat and meet other people in the village interested in gardening and growing. During the year there is a mix of talks, visits to gardens, socials as well as the annual show in August. Whether you tend a few pots on your windowsill or garden a massive plot it really doesn’t matter – you are very welcome to join us.
Programme of Events 2024-25
13 November Wreath Making Birnam Arts 7pm Free to members - donations to Dunkeld and Birnam in Bloom
11 December Christmas Meal, Duchess Anne
12 February Alan Horgan, Soft Fruit Growing Birnam Arts
12 March History of Dunkeld & Birnam Orchard and AGM Birnam Arts
14 May Branklyn Gardens Talk Birnam Arts
Our Repair cafe is 2 years old this Month
In the two years you have brought in 291 of your treasured possessions of all shapes and sizes – from toys to wheelbarrows to broken ornaments to holey jumpers to shuggly chairs and little table without legs and electrical goods too (especially lamps in these dark nights).
Our dedicated fixers have succeeded with 262 of them and we hope their owners are
happy with the results.
Come and join us for cake and a chat and see what we do.
Monday 4th November Birnam Arts 3.00pm to 6.00pm. Bring along anything that needs fixing even if you no longer want it. We might be able to find it a new home.
Murthly Village Hall Hire
Paths Nature Action Group
From £10 per hour
If you think you could help us mend things then please come and see if it would suit you. We are a very informal group who really enjoy the once a month session. The cakes
Events hall and kitchen facilities for Birthday parties, Indoor sports, Dances, Gatherings, Quiz Nights and more.
As the balsam control season came to a close our attention turned to planning some path maintenance tasks. We need your help to achieve this – on flexible days/ times. Please get in touch if you’d like to support your local paths network. Currently we are planning works on the Polney Loch path and a return to the Inver-Hermitage link. We held two evening walks in Unplugged week looking at some local issues, what the Group did this year, and contemplating some future options. There are various interests in doing ‘something’ with the riverside strip from about the Braan mouth to the fishermens hut. There have been great changes here (over the last Century or so) and it’s clear that there will now be more - climate change is altering the pattern of flooding; new species of animal, plant (including introduced
Raise your level of wellness, reduce pain, stress/anxiety & re-align where you are in life. Health & Wellbeing Hub
dbrepaircafe@gmail.com if you want to get in touch.
pennybaird5@icloud.com Little Dunkeld • 07342 979393 Zerobalancinguk.org
May ‘Stick on the Fridge Page’
November ‘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
D&B Paths and Nature Action Group stewartpritchard@aol.com
Dunkeld & Birnam Historical Society 07584 434253 Dave Roberts daveroberts132@btinternet.c.om
Dunkeld & Birnam in Bloom 727288 Linda Speirs lindaladyhill@yahoo.co.uk
Birnam Arts 727674 Manager admin@birnamarts.com arts@birnamarts.com
Birnam Arts Ballet (Mon – Thurs, Emma Gray age 4 upwards & adults) ballet@birnamarts.com Cathedral Tower Bell Ringers 742218 Iona Connor lowesfarm@hotmail.com
Dunkeld 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
Traditional Youth Music Group 07958 324 766 Karys and Gill dbtradgroup@gmail.com and Facebook Annual Events Art Exhibition dunkeldart@aol.com Margaret Scott Arts & Crafts Fair (Apr, Aug & Nov) 727968 / 07743 400938 Na’an Meikleour poppyseednaan@yahoo.com Christian Aid Week 727867 Jim McCafferty Highland Games (August) 07880 588433 Duncan Sim duncan_sim@hotmail.com Niel Gow Festival 07766 406313 Liam Manion (weekend closest to 22 March) LManion41@gmail.com For Children Baby & Toddler Group 07546 128902 Lesley Singers
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)
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)
BA = Birnam Arts Centre, DA = Duchess Anne Hall, The Cross,
May
Dates for your Diary
May exhibition at Birnam Arts Conglomerates Jessica Ramm
1 Aging Creatively Workshop with Alison Price 60+, Free, but please book 10-12pm
2 Climate Café Community Coworking Space
4-5 10am to 5pm – Dunkeld Living History Weekend in Stanley Hill Park –Free Event
All month Art Exhibition Louisa Preston Experimental Artist FREE Birnam Arts Prayers for Help and Healing Little Dunkeld Kirk 6:30pm
The Field AGM and Harvest Supper Duchess Anne 7-9pm
3 8pm in Birnam Arts – “Dunkeld’s Dark Deeds“ performed by Lindsey Gibb at Birnam Arts – Tickets available from birnamarts.com
Repair Café 3- 6pm Birnam Arts
4 “Macbeth: Death, Bane & Birnam workshop led by Actor Joe Arkley & Shakespearean specialist Tracey Irish 2pm – Duchess Anne Hall
4 8pm in Birnam Arts – Daniel Downie: A Historical & Hysterical journey through Scottish History – Tickets available from birnamarts.com
5 Service Help and Healing Little Dunkeld Kirk 6:30pm
Perth & Kinross Dementia Cafe Awareness Day Wed Oct 2nd 2024 10am-12:30pm North Church Hall , High Street Perth
Concert The Firelight Trio 7:30pm Birnam Arts Historical Society Talk Mike Taylor: Bristling with Guns – “Oi mate, you can’t put that cannon there” Duchess Anne Hall 7:30 – 9:30pm £5
5 Dundonnachie: Fraud & Riot In Dunkeld workshop led by Actor Joe Arkley & Shakespearean specialist Tracey Irish 10.30am – Duchess Anne Hall ~
5 4.30pm in Dunkeld Cathedral - The Scots Opera Project Present Wandering Oisin ~ A Celtic Folk Opera (Soprano Colleen Nicoll, Music by Esther Swift & David Douglas, Lyrics by Tony Bonning) – Tickets available on Eventbrite.
Craft Fair,
8 Sho and the Demons of the Deep by Zoë Bullock Independent Arts Projects in association with National Theatre of Scotland £5 Children £12 Adults 1.30pm Dunkeld School: Free
10 Gardeners and Growers Club Falkland Gardens Visit acox325@gmail.com
10 Bookstall in aid of Christian Aid 10am onwards outside Duchess Anne
10 3 Churches Charity Shop Table Top Sale Hobby/Craft Materials
11 3 Churches Charity Shop Table Top Sale Hobby/Craft Materials
11 Bookstall in aid of Christian Aid 10am onwards outside Duchess Anne
11 Print Workshop with Jessica Ramm Free,but please book. 10am-12pm Birnam Arts
11 Viking Optics day 10.30am to 3.00pm. Loch of the Lowes lochofthelowes@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk
Breadalbane & District Riding for the Disabled
11 West Stormont Woodland Group, woodland picnic 12.00, followed by a guided walk Meet at the entrance to Taymount Wood contact@weststormontwoodlandgroup.scot
11 Scotland's Garden Scheme Birnam Bank Walled Garden PH8 0BW 10-4pm £5 admission - Children free
12 Paths and Nature Actions Action Group 2 - 3.30pm stewartpritchard@aol.com
12 Songs and Silence Service at the Cathedral
13 Dunkeld and Birnam in Bloom, AGM 10.30 at Dunaird House, Birnam. 17-18 James V: Katherine £12 + Booking Fee 19:30 - 21:30 Birnam Arts
17 Bookstall in aid of Christian Aid 10am onwards outside Duchess Anne
18 Orchard Group 10:30am Katharine 01350 727048 dunkeldbirnamorchard@gmail.com
22 Bridge Day at Birnam Arts £20 per player http://www.bridgewebs.com/bridgedays Miriam Drysdale 07747777601
24 Budapest Café Orchestra £18 + Booking Fee 7:30pm
25-27 The Dunkeld & Birnam Spring Art & Crafts Fair The Royal Dunkeld Hotel 10-5pm daily Entry is free
Society Talk Euphemia Ramsay:
Gothic Ghost Story for Solstice Duchess Ann Hall 7:30 – 9:30pm £5
26 Paths and Nature Actions Action Group 10 – 11:30 stewartpritchard@aol.com
& Birnam - Magical Christmas Candlelit Trail
30 A9 Community Group meeting and AGM Birnam Arts 730pm June
2
Night Christmas Shopping - 4.00pm-8.00pm
Garden Opening Sunday 12 - 5 Pm Torwood House St Marys Road Birnam. Proceeds to local charities.
2 Service Help and Healing St Mary’s Church 6:30pm
and Growers Meeting – Christmas Event, Duchess Anne story of Dunkeld & Birnam Orchard and AGM Birnam Arts
For a Full listing of Event see Dunkeld Community Google Calendar Follow this link or also from our Facebook page https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/3?cid=ZHVua2VsZGFuZGJpcm5hbWNv bW11bml0eUBnbWFpbC5jb20
7 Beaver Breakfast 5.00 – 7am. Loch of the Lowes - Loch of the Lowes, Dunkeld, PH8 0HH (Visitor centre open 10.30am till 5.00pm daily) Tel: 01350 727 337 Email: lochofthelowes@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk 12 Gardeners and Growers Club Bradystone, Murthly. Propagation Workshop, Garden tour. acox325@gmail.com 16 Songs and Silence Service at the Cathedral 18 Kirk Session Meeting, Duchess Anne, 7:30pm 26 Beaver Watch 7 - 9.30pm. 30 Songs and Silence Service at the Cathedral
For dates further ahead see: www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk
For dates further ahead see: www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk
Dunkeld
BA = Birnam Arts Centre, DA = Duchess Anne Hall, The Cross, Dunkeld
OLD FASKALLY CHRISTMAS TREES
Christmas is
coming
- O rder N O w !
Christmas trees direct from the grower in Pitlochry!
Premium Nordmann Fir & Fraser Fir
5ft £40 • 6ft £48 • 7ft £56
8ft £64 • 9ft £90 • 10ft £100
Standard Nordmann Fir
5ft £32 • 6ft £40 • 7ft £48 • 8ft £56
Christmas Tree Stands £30
Larger trees available upon request. All subject to availability.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who turned up on Saturday night for our Quiz. It was a great turnout and everyone had a great time. We would also like to thank everyone for donating to our raffle. We had a huge amount of prizes and this helped raise the amount of money we did. We raised a whopping £686.93!! Thank you! This was our 4th year running the quiz and it has always been well supported. This will be the last time Lachlan and myself will organise the quiz and we are very grateful for all the support we have received over the last 4 years.
The Dunkeld & Birnam Christmas Art and Crafts Fair
The Dunkeld & Birnam Christmas Art and Crafts Fair takes place in The Drill Hall The Cross on 9th and 10th November from 10am to 5pm each day. Crafts include woodturning, leather (handmade shoes made to measure), silks, felt, harris tweed, Art, glass, knitwear, embroidery, slatework, soaps and skincare, homemade tablet, sheepskins, leather belts and silver jewellery. Demonstrations and free entry
The Meeting Place
The Meeting Place is on a Friday morning in the Duchess Anne from 10-12. Come and join us for some good company, tea/coffee and delicious home bakes.
Change of date: On Friday 15th November we will be supporting the Scottish Air Ambulance and Wendy, one of their paramedics will join us. She will be able to answer any questions and hopefully have some cards and other goodies for sale. We will have a cake stall. All welcome.
Finally Took to the Skies
Hello Everyone,
We have some wonderful news. We finally managed to take to the sky and jump out of a very small plane.
After a few rescheduled dates we had an experience of a life time. The free fall was out of this world and definitely something that we recommend. The views at 10,000 feet were breathtaking.
A big shout out to St Andrews Skydive in Glenrothes. All the staff were amazing.
Amy aka Miss Robb was attached to the calm and collected Connor, who videoed Amy’s jump. Michelle was attached to Cammy who was a jokester.
A huge thank you to Iain and Leslie at St Andrews Skydive for all their help in getting our jump rescheduled so quickly and enabling us to meet our deadline.
We have raised an unbelievable amount of money. We shared our GoFundMe page on social media networks and posters around Dunkeld & Birnam. We also asked some local businesses in the area to place donations buckets in their shops, which they all happily agreed to do. A massive thank you to them all, they collectively raised £540!!!
The businesses were: The Atholl Arms Hotel; Chattan Tea Room; Corbenic Shop & Café; Dunkeld Butchers; Dunkeld Co-op; Dunkeld Fish Bar; Kat n Kat; Livvies Little Lunchbox; Royal British Legion Dunkeld
Our fundraising Grand Total is £4,150!!!!!!
£2,075 will go to The Royal School of Dunkeld for The Secret Garden Project.
The other £2,075 will go to the Young Lives Vs Cancer charity.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported, donated and rooted for us. It’s been amazing!
Lastly, but by no means least…
Thank you to the previous PPG members Graeme, Jennifer, Julie & Katie who helped Michelle’s crazy fundraising idea come into reality with no second thoughts.
Julie Brady, thank you & the helpers for organising The Bingo Tea to fund Amy’s (Miss Robb) jump and for sharing our posts at every ask.
Sonia Wallace, thank you for dressing up as a Dino with Michelle who was dressed up as a Unicorn on
Birnam Games Day, to promote what we were raising money for and also sharing posts at every ask. We have been renamed by Archie in P4, as Sonia-saurus & Michelacorn. Claire Wallace and Katie Mills who also shared our posts at every ask. And Julie Telford for checking Michelle’s grammar for all the updates and posts!
A final thank you goes to our family and friends that came to watch us jump, took pictures & videos for proof we did it! Haha!
Thank you
Much love always Amy & Michelle
The 3 Churches Charity Shop
The 3 Churches Charity Shop remains a hive of activity as our new autumn/winter stock is now on sale. Every day, clothing is flying from our shelves as satisfied customers leave armed with warm clothing. A big thank you to the gentleman who pointed out that one of our musical records selling for £1 was in fact a collector’s item and worth at least £15 - £20. Please pop in and see if we have anything that would suit you or at least come in for a friendly chat, you will be very welcome.
A pair of gold cufflinks has been found in a donation to the 3 Churches Charity Shop. They may have been donated in error. If you think these may be yours please come into the shop and describe what they look like so we can return them.
Puddleduck Nursery New Mud Kitchen
Puddleduck Nursery is excited to announce the arrival of a brand-new mud kitchen, generously created and donated by the talented pupils of Moore House Group, Dunkeld Campus, Butterstone, part of The Jane Moore Trust . This wonderful addition to our outdoor play area promises to provide endless hours of fun, creativity, and hands-on learning for our little ones.
The mud kitchen, carefully crafted by the pupils at MHG Dunkeld Campus, is a fantastic resource that will allow the children to explore the natural world, engage in imaginative play, and develop essential skills such as problem-solving and collaboration. From making mud pies to pretend cooking, this new feature will inspire children to get messy, experiment, and discover in a safe and stimulating environment.
At Puddleduck Nursery, we believe that outdoor play is a vital part of early childhood development, helping children to build confidence, enhance their physical abilities, and nurture their creativity. The donation from MHG Dunkeld Campus aligns perfectly with our ethos, and we are incredibly grateful to the pupils for their hard work and thoughtfulness in creating this amazing mud kitchen.
We can’t wait to see the joy and excitement this new addition brings to our nursery community, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to Moore House Group for their generous support!
Pictured here is Derwyn from MHG and Jill, Puddleduck Nursery Manager.
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/
HEADing towards Everest Quiz Night
I would like to thank everyone who came along to support the above quiz night. It was a good turnout and everyone had a fantastic night. The sum raised from the quiz night and the raffle was £360. This money will be put towards helping people with acquired brain injury (ABI) get to Base Camp Everest. They are all members of groups and branches of Headway throughout Scotland but they are doing this as individuals. This is something most of them never thought they would ever achieve. They are also raising funds for the documentary which will be filmed over there to highlight the problems people with ABI face. It is hoped this will be shown throughout the world.
A big thanks to John Attwell who was the quiz master and set the questions. Thanks to the British Legion for allowing us to use their premises and a big thanks to all who donated raffle prizes.
Evelyn Menzies
(Chairperson, Headway Perth & Kinross)
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
Editorial 19
Last Friday I, along with Bailie Claire McLaren and Councillor Tom McEwan, Convener of Housing and Communities, was delighted to meet Stuart Maxwell of the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) to cement the deal that Perth and Kinross Council will purchase 20 residential properties from NTS.
This is the conclusion of months of work involving Perth and Kinross Council, the Scottish Government and of course NTS.
I am sure this venture will improve the situation of the sitting tenants and those who will be able to acquire a Council tenancy in the future. These houses will be covered by the Local Lettings Initiative which will benefit the local community. Work has now started on the upgrade to the Stewart Tower road which links Bankfoot and Murthly. This work will be welcomed by many and I am happy to see it finally being progressed.
Being someone who is not that keen on heights I have to say I still enjoyed the climb up to the deck of Destiny Bridge and a walk across it. It is a fantastic piece of engineering which will open on time early next year.
Residents in Dunkeld are working with Council Officers and others to set up a North Dunkeld Resilience Group to work together to mitigate the severe localised weather events which are becoming more prevalent.
In this year’s 2024-25 budget, funding was allocated to progress a Dunkeld Flood Scheme. There had been no funding available for this until the budget decision was taken. Previous to this it would have been 2034 before any flood prevention measures would even have been looked at.
Capital projects such as these have a timescale over several years covering design and construction phases then onto procurement and construction. Whilst the timelines may be disappointing for residents, we have put the funding in place so that this project can move forward and be a benefit to Dunkeld residents.
A decision at Committee to cease selling Perth and Kinross Council minibuses at auction but rather to gift them to community groups will start this Autumn.
We are moving into yet another testing budget setting phase. It is difficult at Council level as we are the last to know how much of a budget we will have and in which areas we will have control of the spend. Unfortunately more difficult decisions will have to be made to balance the books.
Grant Laing
News from our Community Council
Dunkeld & Birnam Community Council Community Council Matters Community Council MemberJohn McMillan Wigzell
Following the great news that NTS have agreed to sell around 20 properties to PKC at the Cross and Cathedral Street, the topic of affordable housing remains very much at the top of local discussions and particularly amongst the young. Indeed, against this backdrop, at a well attended recent joint meeting between the Community Council and the DBDCD Trustees, it was agreed that the Community Council will meet with Atholl
JOHN SWINNEY, MSP for PERTHSHIRE NORTH can be contacted at: 17-19 LESLIE STREET, BLAIRGOWRIE Tel: 01250 876576
Estates and Ristol Consulting to investigate and understand both the pros and cons of this new proposed development.
Atholl Estates proposed model is premised on free serviced plots which is very similar to the hugely successful affordable housing projects delivered by Arran Development Trust (ADT).
Arran have already delivered 18 affordable homes (2 x 1 bedroom homes, 10 x 2 bedroom homes and 6 x 3 bedroom homes) which were snapped up inside 24 hours by key workers and a further 23 self build serviced plots. They are targeting 200 affordable homes.
The Atholl offer represents a significant advantage to young people in Dunkeld as other Trusts have had to buy the plots which are typically around the £200k mark. It is worth noting that the alternative route of buying properties to refurbish attracts VAT while self builds do not.
Moving now to some distressing news from The Riverbank. Hammy Hamster’s best friend Roddy
Rat appears to have moved his relatives into Dunkeld and in particular the area around the North Car Park and adjacent wood. There have been extensive complaints to the Community Council and PKC’s environmental health team are now investigating and will provide remedies. One of the main attractions for the rats is said to be waste food wrappers from tourists and campervans. Finally, we are delighted to announce that PKC have formally approved both Sonia Wallace and Kim Forsyth as new community councillors which will be formalised on Monday 14th.October at the Community Council’s AGM. This will of course reduce the average age of councillors to the lowest in Scotland and bring better insight into how younger people view life in Dunkeld and environs.
John McMillan Wigzell, Treasurer-Dunkeld & Birnam Community Council.Dunkeld & Birnam Community Council
Coworking desk with use of sound proof pods for calls - £1.80 per hour - 24/7
