From this edition we are trialing a new system for delivering The Bridge asking for volunteers to help us distribute The Bridge to the households in Dunkeld and Birnam.
This could be a section of your road, your block of flats etc
If you would be happy to distribute The Bridge to households around where you live please contact Beth and Mel at the following e-mail address: deliveries@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk
The Bridge
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I wandered past the Community Orchard with a visitor last week The trees looked so established and we admired the ripening fruit Hopefully the sun will shine on Big Apple Day on 23rd September (see page 16)
It doesn’t seem so long ago that we were planting the orchard assisted by PWC consultants on their ‘help the community’ afternoon Back then Scott and Callum needed help digging holes Now, like the trees, they are well over 6’ and capable of wielding their own spades alongside constructing their unintelligible algorithms Lovely though it is having them back for the Uni holidays I’ve not quite re-adapted to the mountainous food supplies required to keep them going – surely there were two packets of cheese in the fridge yesterday? Weren’t there? And we haven’t had cheese for a meal? So where could it have gone? I’m currently baking (by which I mean the bread machine) a loaf of bread every day and that also seems to mysteriously disappear Any ideas?
You’ll notice on the front page that we are trying a new method of delivering The Bridge – seeing if we can find enough volunteers to take delivery of a small bundle of Bridge’s (e g , maybe 12- 20) and then deliver these to the households close to you The idea is that it might help build our sense of local community as well as ensure the lesser-known doors, known only to our experienced posties and neighbours, get their copy If you can help, please e-mail Beth & Mel on deliveries@dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk letting them know which group of houses you would be prepared to deliver to We’ll trial the system until Christmas backed
up by house-to-house deliveries where we can’t find a volunteer and then review how it’s going
Finally, a big shout out to all our amazing shopkeepers who manage to keep Dunkeld a thriving high street All too often I drive through a Scottish town and think ‘where is everybody?’ and ‘why are all the shops closed?’ Dunkeld by contrast is thronging with people out and about enjoying everything our community has to offer from the beautiful scenery to its fantastic selection of shops, cafes, and restaurants A huge well done and thank you to everyone who makes this happen day after day Getting my e-bike has been an additional boost because I don’t even have to worry about where to park when I need to go to the shops for the daily supply of cheese
Sally Robertson
Community News continued
PH8 Care Group
The PH8 Care Group came out of the PH8 Community Action Plan which clearly identified Care provision in PH8 as an area of concern The Group report to the PH8 trust through minutes of meetings and through the Project Worker for the Trust, Beth Beazley, who attends meetings of the Group It’s made up of local people with direct experience of health/care provision ( ie most local people) and representatives of the Health and Care Partnership for Perth and Kinross Current members include representatives of the Lunch Club, Food Share, Men’s Shed, Social Prescribing service, Repair Shop, Gien a Haund and Recovery Cafe
The group acts as an information exchange between existing local groups, but members have also started a number of new initiatives to improve our citizens’ quality of life So we now have a Social Prescribing Service which can direct people to a variety of local groups offering companionship and involvement in a range of different activities Anyone interested should contact Jeni Guthrie at jguthrie@pkc gov uk or through Craigvinean Surgery
We also now have a Recovery Cafe which meets weekly, offering support to folk on their personal journey of recovery Audra Webster can be contacted by anyone interested at audra webster@nhs scot
Our Benches Project has seen new benches installed above the Orchard and behind the bus shelter at the Birnam Hotel We have a map of other possible sites where Council officials have indicated that they are likely to allow benches to be sited and it is our hope that people may wish to fund/dedicate benches for loved ones in future Some of the sites are in attractive locations Others are in places where they are simply needed, because of the distance between residential areas and services At least one such bench will be dedicated in the near future Anyone interested should contact Rosy Wright on rosyawright@gmail com
The Foodshare initiative is now well established thanks to Doctor Jan Silburn and operates from both outside the Duchess Anne and St Mary’s in Birnam 7 days a week Various local shops support the initiative with donations from allotments and people’s gardens always welcome at this time of year If you have more than you need, why not bring some of your produce along to one of the outlets and share with other local people?
Outings from Rivendell and Sheltered Housing, which had ceased before the pandemic, are now in full swing again thanks to Dr Graham Wright and his team They also facilitate some Rivendell residents attending regular sessions of All Together
The Food Train initiative , based in Perth, is now active in the Birnam/Dunkeld area , offering a shopping order and delivery service to the Over 65s who require it Search Foodtrain Perth
Finally, and perhaps most ambitiously, we are in dialogue with colleagues elsewhere in Perthshire regarding the possibility of a joint, not for profit initiative to tackle the continuing shortage of Homecare provision, availability of Personal Assistants and access to Befriending support This last, if successful, will require considerable input over the coming months
If you are interested in supporting any of the above or would like to attend meetings of the Care Group, please contact Beth Beazley, Project Worker for the PH8 CAP Trust, on bethbeazley@outlook com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––Chapter House Museum
Dunkeld Community Archive 12 The Cross, Dunkeld, PH8 0AN www historicdunkeld org uk archives@historicdunkeld.org.uk / 01350 727786
Dunkeld Living History Weekend – What an amazing time we had !!
A huge thank you to all the fabulous folk who helped this year, including Lindsey Gibb with a superb performance about the real Witches of Dunkeld; Colleen Nicholl, David Douglas and Andrew Johnston for their stunning performance ‘Under the Branches of Birnam Oak’ based around Fiona Ritchie’s poem; Hazel Murch and the Cathedral choir, Rev Fraser Penny, Wattie Barbour, Just Singin’ and Marta Totten for a beautiful performance in the Cathedral; Birnam Games committee and our Fire Department for hosting stands in the park, Steven Goodison for his “ye olde likeness” drawings, Dave Hunt for taking amazing Tin-Type photographs on a 100 year old camera, Blairgowrie Rattray & District Pipe Band, along with all the amazing performers and re-enactors who travel from miles around to help entertain and educate locals and visitors about our wonderful history The Scottish Deli for sponsoring our event and supplying two amazing hampers for the raffle Our wonderful volunteers who helped man the photographic exhibition in the archive Birnam Arts for hosting three of our concerts Also, the Dunkeld and Birnam Development Trust for supplying the P A system and Simon & Sarah Yearsley for the supplying, building and dismantling those huge gazebo’s!
The weather was very kind considering the forecast and everyone who attended gave us amazing feedback
Next Event
You will find us at the Birnam Highland Games where you can learn all about the fascinating history of the Games
If anyone has any photographs of past Games that we could copy, please get in touch
Volunteers
A great way to meet like-minded people and learn about Dunkeld’s vast history We have lots of interesting projects to get involved in so please get in touch if you have any spare time
Acquisitions
We are always happy to receive new and interesting artefacts, photographs, documents or research relevant to Dunkeld and the surrounding area
Online Exhibitions
Check out our latest exhibition at: www historicdunkeld org uk
Arts News 3
Birnam Arts is pleased to announce that we have appointed Giles Conisbee as our new, permanent General Manager
Giles brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to Birnam Arts He has lived and worked in Highland Perthshire for over 19 years in positions such as Head of Communications at Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Chief Executive of Birks Cinema Giles is experienced in managing business, staff and customer service and brings real strength in areas like marketing and communications
The Board and staff look forward to working with Giles in continuing to develop and strengthen Birnam Arts over the coming years
WHAT’S ON AT BIRNAM ARTS
Man Shed
Right Lines Production
Thursday 21st September
7 30pm
Tickets £12 / £10*
How does a man find his purpose when he grows older, and all the major life events come thick and fast? Should he retire to the solitude of The Shed as usual and escape from the world, or should he get out and try something new? When the familiar rules no longer apply, is it too late to change the habits of a lifetime?
Inspired by the work of the Scottish Men’s Sheds Association, “Man Shed” is a oneman theatre piece by Right Lines Productions which explores the joy of sheds, the pain of loss and the comfort of friendship
‘Beyond Expectations’ Breastfeeding Photography project - GET INVOLVED!
Tuesday 12th September
11.30 – 1pm
Birnam Arts has teamed up with photographer Jo Foo from Mei Photography and Breast Buddies Perth & Kinross (breastfeeding support service) to host two picnics where you can find out all about this exceptional photography project which puts breastfeeding in focus Have you breastfed for longer than you expected to? If so, please bring a picnic and blanket and join us at the North Inch in Perth on Sunday 10th September (12-13:30) or to Birnam Arts in the Peter Rabbit Gardens on Tuesday 12th September (11:30-13:00) to meet Jo, chat about how to get involved and get some photos taken
Singing and Rainbows Concert
Colleen and Katie
Sunday 8th October 11am – Tickets £5
Singing and Rainbows Community Concert - join Opera Singers Colleen and Katie for a relaxed and fun filled afternoon of your favourite songs spanning the years and the genres Suitable for the very old, the very young and everyone in between
Four Go Wild in Wellies Indepen-dance Company
Thursday 12th October 11am
Recommended age 3 -5 years
Adult and Child £10 Extra Adult / Child £3
Four Go Wild in Wellies is a whimsical adventure featuring bobble hats, scarves, tents that have a life of their own and, of course, lots of fun in wellies! A playful look at the joy of inventiveness and curiosity, the negotiation of social structures, and how friendships are built, broken and mended as play emerges from interaction with each other and with the world around them
From Indepen-dance, Scotland’s inclusive professional dance company
EXHIBITIONS
Perthshire Photographic Society Exhibition
Saturday 9th September – Sunday 8th October 2023
We welcome Perthshire Photographic Society back to Birnam Arts This exhibition will feature a selection of work from 20 PPS members including both established and up and coming photographers, proudly showcasing the breadth of photographic talent that have here in Perthshire Exploring a diverse range of subject matter, this exhibition will have something to interest and inspire everyone
WORKSHOPS
Friday Open Studio Sessions – Starting September 2023
We are excited to announce that from the beginning of September the Visual Arts studio will be open for free access sessions every Friday All dates must be booked in advance by emailing visualarts@birnamarts com and this opportunity is open to all artists Artists are welcome to book the studio for individual use or team up with a small group of artists to make a booking Please note we can only accept one booking per week and sessions will be booked on a first come first served basis
Arts News continued
Dunkeld and Strathspey Reel Society
Highland Perthshire and, especially, Dunkeld have a wonderful and continuing history of great traditional Scots music, from the time of Niel Gow in the eighteenth century to the present day DDSRS, our local fiddle orchestra, meets most Monday evenings during school term time, in the Royal School of Dunkeld We play an interesting variety of traditional Scottish music, old and new, under the expert direction of the well-known local fiddle player and composer Pete Clark
We love to welcome players of fiddle, cello, double bass, accordion or woodwind, who have the option either to join as full members, or to come along when you can and just pay £5 on the night We are a friendly bunch who enjoy each other’s company and the shared pleasure of making music together
Further information at www dunkeldstrathspeyandreel org
LAUDONIA’S THE GRAND TOUR
Harmonising the Past with the Present 1-8 September 2023
Melrose - Edinburgh - Dunkeld
Inverness - Aberdeen - London
We hope to see at one of our forthcoming concerts To book tickets click the link below https://www laudonia org/tickets Tickets for Dunkeld are £19 Here’s a preview of some of the beautiful music you will hear in stunning venues We are delighted to welcome Bojan Čičić as our guest leader and soloist https://youtu be/Z-cdSLjYyfo
Don’t delay - book today!!
Dunkeld Cathedral Art Exhibition
At the time of writing our Exhibition in the Duchess Anne in Dunkeld had a good start, proving popular with visitors and locals alike We had pictures going off to Bangkok and New York as well as London and various places in between We are open every day from 10-4 and 12-4 on Sundays until Thursday 31st August All work is for sale and can be seen on the website www dunkeldartexhibition com Any queries to dunkeldart@ aol com
An invitation from Just Singin’
Just Singin’ is a Community choir for all ages which meets at Birnam Arts on Wednesday evenings It begins its 8 week autumn term on 23rd August, and is keen to welcome new members If you would enjoy singing with a mixed company of friendly folk, it might just be the new pastime you have been looking for!
The group was started twenty years ago by acclaimed Scottish folk singer, Christine Kydd It has a strong emphasis on being open and welcoming to anyone who likes to sing, with no auditions, no need to read music and definitely no need to ever sing solo Over the years, the group has evolved to embrace a wide variety of types of music including everything from Scottish folk , traditional African songs, Gospel material, Georgian songs with dissonant harmonies, show stoppers from music theatre, pop songs - past and present, American folk songs, sea shanties and other world music – something for everyone!
Just Singin’ meets for four termly blocks of eight weeks spread across the year, and held at 7 30pm in the upstairs room at Birnam Arts There are a number of visiting tutors who lead the sessions for a period of four weeks each This allows the group to offer an interesting and ever changing selection of styles and songs and also has the benefit of allowing members to dip in and out, attending for a term when they can Each session begins with a quick warm up of bodies and voices, the tutor then teaches a couple of simple rounds by singing a line and the group singing it back For longer songs, sheets with the words are provided and members decide whether they want to sing low, middle or high parts The tutor teaches the tune and the harmony parts, again by singing a line at a time and having it sung back There is usually a quick break for a cup of tea or coffee, a biscuit and a chat, then back to work! By the end of the evening, it is quite incredible to hear the lovely sound that the blend of voices makes and to feel uplifted by simply being part of it
There are occasional opportunities to take part in performances for those who wish to, and Just Singin’ is always keen to support local community events and festivals, including braving the elements on Santa Day!
Further details are available on the website and Facebook page detailed below Just Singin’ would love to invite you to come along to one of its sessions with no obligation whatever – just bring your voice and a smile!
www.justsingin.co.uk
https://m facebook com>justsingin
Perthshire Open Studios Is Back
With 120 Artists And Makers From Across the Region
More than 120 artists from all across Perth and Kinross – and beyond – will be taking part in this year’s Perthshire Open Studios festival
Running from 6-11 September it’s a fabulous chance to meet artists and makers of every kind in one of Scotland’s most beautiful areas
The range is enormous and includes painters, potters, glassmakers, jewellery designers, textile artists, illustrators, woodworkers, printmakers, photographers and many more
There will also be the Festival Showcase in the Barn Gallery at The Bield, Blackruthven, from 2-11 September, where visitors can see examples of work by each of the festival’s participating artists and makers
See https://perthshireopenstudios com
Birnam Library
Come along to a Bookbug session at Birnam Library! Join us on Thursday mornings from 10 30am-11 00am for a session of songs, stories, and rhymes for under 5s Prebooking for each session is essential Please get in touch with Birnam Library to book a spot 01738 459709 / birnamlibrary@culturepk org uk
All sports and leisure clubs are invited to join 'The Sports Hub ' Membership is free
Please send details of your club's activities and events to editor@dunkeldandbirnmamnews co uk for inclusion in the hub page of 'The Bridge ' For more details see: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/sport
Breadalbane and District Riding for the Disabled (SCO47991)
A very big THANK YOU to everybody who came and supported us at the Aberfeldy Show and Highland Games Thanks to the cooking, baking and gardening skills of our volunteers the tables at our stall were groaning with goodies on the Friday morning and, despite being replenished throughout the two days, were nearly empty by the Saturday evening Our treasurer was delighted to have £537 26 to put into our bank account There was a lot of interest in the group from near and far including a lady who works with RDA in New Zealand !! It was a special thrill to see one of the ponies who is kindly lent to us competing in the show
Preparations have been in hand for the start of the new term including a volunteers training day just to keep everyone up to scratch Unfortunately we are losing the use of our “weight bearing” pony as she has been retired, so we hope we will be able to accommodate all our riders At the start of the new academic year we are never quite sure who will be coming
We will be having a stand at the Pitlochry Highland Games on September 9th so we hope once again we will be well supported as these public occasions are our main way of raising money to keep the group going
New members to the group are always welcome and anyone interested can find out more on our web-site www breadalbanerda org uk or contact us by email at breadalbanerda@gmail com Or you can ring Helen on 01796 470414 or Vicky on 07786262329
Term finished with a wonderful session of games where the children rode through bending poles carrying cups of water in an exciting relay and played Grandmother ’s Footsteps on horseback! There were happy faces all round (including the volunteers!) and the children were all rewarded with rosettes for their achievements during the term
Although we will not be riding again until the end of August we will not be slacking during the next few months We have a stand for both days of the Aberfeldy Show on 11th and 12th August where we will be selling cakes, jams, jewellery and bric-a-brac and we look forward to welcoming you there We will also be attending the Pitlochry Highland Games on September 9th so look out for the green sweatshirts and smiling faces We are entirely funded by donations and fund-raising events so any purchases at these shows will help to ensure that we can continue to provide local children with the opportunity to build confidence, improve coordination and balance and enjoy plenty of fresh air
We are very lucky to have a fantastic team of volunteers but we are always looking for more so if you would like to join us on Monday mornings during the summer and autumn terms, please contact us via our website: www breadalbanerda org uk
Dear all,
We have already welcomed a number of visitors from our twinned community this year and I just wanted to let you know about some key people coming soon from Asheville
Jessica Coffield and her husband Ryan will be here from 25th-27th Aug including the Birnam Games
Jessica is currently President of Asheville Sister Cities and she sits on the board of Sister Cities International Thomas has kindly extended his invitation, as Chieftain, for Jessica and Ryan to march in the parade across the bridge to the Games They are really looking forward to this Jessica can be reached via email at: jeallen8@gmail com
Doug and Darcy Orr will visit for the week of 9th-16th Sept, staying in holiday accommodation at The Cross Doug is the co-chair of the Scotland committee of Asheville Sister Cities and was instrumental in getting it all off the ground They have visited Scotland and Dunkeld many times (not since 2019) so they'll feel at home I know they will be keen to visit all their favourite places in the the vicinity, and to meet up with people Unfortunately I will be away during the week the Orrs are here but if anyone would like to reach out to them during their stay you can reach Doug via email at: orrdoug38@gmail com
As you all know, Asheville Sister Cities donated the proceeds of their Burns Supper this year to the Dunkeld Community Archive Several members of our committee have contributed music, poetry and more to
the Asheville Burns Suppers and Tartan Day celebrations, and helped to welcome many visitors
This has all been greatly appreciated I have put our Twinning Agreement into a frame and this is now in the care of the Dunkeld Community Archive so it will reinforce the connection when our friends from Asheville see this
We should have a meeting in the autumn to look ahead to further collaborations on the Burns Supper, Tartan Day etc in 2024
Our next meeting is our AGM on Tues 26th September AGM when we will to look ahead to further collaborations on the Burns Supper, Tartan Day etc in 2024 This will be held at 7:30pm in the Community Coworking Space/zoom
Many thanks, Fiona
Community News continued 6
FOOD SHARE
We’re delighted to report that the Coop has asked us to collect their surplus food every night now This has prevented lots of items from being thrown out and means that it’s worth checking the tables and the fridge freezer at the Duchess Anne and the St Mary’s table for a wide variety of goodies There are often flowers, bread, sandwiches, fruit and packets of meat so keep checking!
We try to post it on Facebook but for some of us that’s very challenging!
We hardly ever have to compost anything Thanks also to the generous people who share surplus garden produce, fruit and food they don’t need Also Livvy for their daily surplus and the Field Fortunately we’ve managed to recruit more volunteers as this is a much bigger commitment If you’d like to help us - it should only be once or twice a month- please email Jan Silburn - j silburn@btinternet com
FOOD BANK
Just a reminder that we have a donations basket in the Coop Thank you to the kind people who leave items there
If you need some help with food please contact our confidential email or phone number: PH8foodbank@gmail com or 01350 700018
Housing Action Group
At the last HAG meeting it was brought to our attention that the percentage of short-term lets (SLT) in Dunkeld and Birnam, which we published as 15% in The Bridge, July 2023, was wrong It has since been verified with the PKC that according to the 2021 survey the percentages of total housing stock in D&B are as follows:
Self-catering Units 5 7%
Total of second homes including self-catering units
Short-term lets on AirBnB
Data which collates all of the above is not available For further reference please refer to: https://consult pkc gov uk/communities/proposed-shortterm-let-control-area-and-draft-pla/ We were working in good faith with figures that the PKC had shared with us but in error, the figure quoted to us appears to be the percentage for the whole of Highland Perthshire and not specifically for D&B We apologise unreservedly for this error and await the results of the current PKC survey in order to update this information We would like to reassure all HAG members and indeed the community, that our principal aim is, together with PKC to identify potential sites within D&B for the development of a relatively small number of affordable houses for the community, to be managed by the
community with the intent to do so in perpetuity Our interests in monitoring an increase in STLs in our area remains purely related to the potentially negative effect that this may have on affordable housing stock Tourism is crucial to the local community and its businesses and services The success of the HAG initiative will hopefully help people working locally to live locally In our intent to remain open and transparent to the whole community we encourage comments, questions and, most of all, support
Traditionally many railway stations were famous for their gardens and floral displays – often created and nurtured by local staff, in recent years volunteers from within local communities have become involved in adopting their local stations There are around 210 ScotRail stations adopted across the country with over 1,000 volunteers regularly participating Dunkeld and Birnam station has been adopted for around 12 years by Lachlan McEwan from Dunkeld Nurseries, he has been supported by his family and a few other locals over the years Lachlan’s commitment and contribution to volunteering at the station has been so important - as has his participation in the Highland Mainline Railway Community Rail Partnership where he has highlighted the need for the station to be made more accessible and brought back into community use Thank you, Dunkeld Nurseries, Lachlan, family and others, for all you have done - and continue to do! Who adopts railway stations? Station adopters are as varied and unique as the stations, from a person who lovingly cares for a single planter to large groups who are increasing biodiversity in the area, or introducing artworks and helping people in their communities who want to be more active, make new friends and learn new skills
How can you help? We need more local people with brilliant ideas, experience and skills to get involved and help our station action group and station adopter tell the story of the station's importance to our community heritage and a sustainable future
Please get in touch if you could commit a couple of hours of your time a week, in ways that you would find enjoyable, to contribute your ideas, expertise, interests, experience and skills Whatever your interests or background, we need your artistic, creative, organisational, and digital skills, your knowledge and experience of railways, construction or public services as well as practical, heritage, maintenance and gardening experience and skills
We are keen for people of all ages to get involvedespecially younger people and their families and local groups and organisations who would benefit from the station being more welcoming and accessible Immediate priorities for voluntary work can include activities such as maintaining and painting planters and borders/verges, information boards, leaflets and signage and arts, heritage and cultural activities
How to get involved:
Email stationactiongroup@gmail com to register your interest in volunteering to support our station adopter or fill in the form we will leave at the Post Office, Birnam Arts or the Archive and give it in to Beth, our Local Development Trust Community Connector who is based at the Co Working Space in Little Dunkeld ScotRail will be hosting an induction session on 8th September 2023, so express your interest as soon as you can!
This in session will cover everything you need to know about the Adopt-a-Station programme, and the safety of the volunteers We will work together to help ScotRail record the volunteering hours you do and celebrate the difference you are making to our station If you prefer, you can email the adoptastation@scotrail co uk directly We hope to hear from you and look forward to working with you in the future to make Dunkeld and Birnam station a station that we can all enjoy using more!
Mon-Fri 8 00am to 5 00pm
Sat 10 00am to 11 00am
Fraser Mills - NICEIC registered
All domestic and commercial work undertaken
Tel: 07545 078968
Email: fm electrical143@gmail com
FM-Electrical co uk
Locally based
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: rivendellcare@btconnect.com for more information
The Royal School of Dunkeld
– at the heart of our community
It’s great to be able to update again on exciting developments at the Royal School of Dunkeld (RSD) As pupils and staff return for the autumn term, it is worth a wee look back to a major achievement from the last school year RSD is now on what is known as a ‘rights respecting journey’ – as a result of the work undertaken by the school Rights Respecting Community Group and lots of learning about Children’s Rights across the school and through school assemblies, RSD has now earned the prestigious UNICEF Bronze Rights Respecting Schools Award According to UNICEF “becoming a Rights Respecting School involves re-evaluating the school’s ethos and practices to make sure they embed the principles of the United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of the Child It is therefore vital that the whole school community, and especially the headteacher and senior leadership team, are committed to the school’s participation” The Bronze Award shows commitment from the school community – and that planning is well underway for the next stage, looking for a Silver Award
Another school-wide milestone was achieved just before the summer term concluded with the installation, in the school grounds, of brand-new trim trail equipment – with funding through the SSE Griffin Fund Facilitated by parents, the Parent Partnership Group and staff – with, of course, key input on choice of equipment by the children – this equipment is already proving very popular, If you’re walking by the school, do take a look
At the time of writing, planning is well underway for activities at Birnam Games to celebrate the place of the school in our community, and we’re also delighted to report that the RSD school football team is getting started again – with hoped for friendlies to come with friends and neighbour schools across Highland Perthshire Next month, we plan to share with you more about the learning and projects underway across the school
Three Churches in the Community
Thought for the Month
Writing a reflection every three months coincides with the changing of the seasons Six months back I was complaining about winter, but now as I write this we are in the midst of summer From the back of our house we are blessed with access to a beautiful forty-five minute circular walk that passes first through dense woodland before opening into riverside fields I walk this circuit often and it now takes on a sort of contemplative rhythm with the changing seasons providing the backdrop As I write this the fields are now full of corn, in stark contrast to the bareness of this same landscape some six months ago It is a quiet reminder that change is the ever present feature of our lives
Ecclesiastes Chapter 3 tells us that ‘for everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven’ Pete Seeger took eight verses from this chapter and adding a haunting melody created the iconic song ‘Turn, Turn, Turn’, which took a text from the Bible to the top of the hit parade in 1965 Over the years I have come to love the words of Ecclesiastes, however if we are to look beyond the elegant poetry hoping of finding solutions for our existential problems, easy answers are not forthcoming The text presents itself as a reflection by an unknown author on what the teacher ‘Qoholet’ had told him about the futility of anything that we might normally rely on to give stability to our lives: everything has its time, and nothing is permanent
Life so far in the twenty-first century might appear to be echoing Ecclesiastes From the perspective of my own post war generation it can at times feel as if we are now living in a chaotic ‘post-modern’ world, where much of what we had taken as understood is being routinely rejected If I am going to be objective however, I am bound to ask is this really new? How for instance did those who had just fought and survived two world wars experience the new ideas brought by my own ‘hippy’ generation? Ecclesiastes is quietly nodding at this point, reminding us that it has all been seen before: “what has been, will be” as “there is nothing new under the sun” In case we are about to sink into despair the books penultimate verse finally reminds us that there is a simple solution: “Fear God and keep his commandments; for that is the whole duty of everyone”
But how? Several centuries later Jesus was asked to clarify which of the commandments was the greatest No one was particularly surprised when he answered, ‘you should love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul’, but then he suddenly added that ‘you should love your neighbour as yourself’ In case this wasn’t clear he also elsewhere twice puts it another way, saying ‘you should do to others as you would have them do to yourselves’ We are of course already blessed by a few individuals who do their best to live by these simple rules, but the other day a strange thought suddenly struck me What would happen if year on year a small percentage of people in every country in the world were to suddenly be motivated to follow that advice and moreover were never to turn back Well that would certainly be something totally ‘new under the sun’ But then what might our world be like some ten years hence? Meantime back to reality, and let’s all enjoy what’s left of the summer!
Roderick Campbell Guion OCDS
Church of Scotland Services
September 3rd 11am – Communion Service in the Cathedral
September 10th 11am – Morning Worship in the Cathedral
6 30pm – Songs & Silence in the Cathedral
September 17th 11am – Morning Worship in the Cathedral
2 15pm – Harvest Thanksgiving Service at Amulree
September 24th 11am – Morning Worship in the Cathedral
6 30pm – Songs & Silence in the Cathedral
October 1st 11am – Harvest Thanksgiving Service in the Cathedral
Tea and coffee are served after the morning service each week in the Chanonry
Songs & Silence
Once again over the summer we are holding a series of evening services called ‘Songs & Silence’ – time for prayer and meditation Using music in the Taize style (quiet and meditative), words and silence these services give an opportunity to enjoy a different type of worship in the peace of the Cathedral
They all start at 6 30pm and last about 45 minutes Come and enjoy the peace and quiet of prayer and reflection in the lovely setting of the Cathedral
The remaining dates are:
August 27th
September 10th
September 24th
Kirk Session
The next meeting of the Kirk Session is in the Duchess Anne on September 12th at 7 00pm (Please note the earlier start )
The Meeting Place
The Meeting Place is in the Duchess Anne on Friday mornings from 10 – 12 All welcome
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
Men’s Breakfast
The smell of bacon rolls and sizzling sausages will be wafting out of the Chanonry once again on August 23rd when the Men’s Breakfast gets going again, starting at 9am There is no need to book; just turn up and enjoy food, company and conversation - all are welcome
The breakfast is every fortnight so the dates in September are 6th, 20th and then the 4th of October
Harvest
The Cathedral congregation will hold its Harvest Thanksgiving Service on Sunday October 1st and there will be a Harvest Thanksgiving at Amulree on September 17th
Appeal
Every year as part of our celebrations, we have a harvest appeal to raise money for a good cause This year the Kirk Session has decided our appeal should be for Cross Roads for Human Development The President of the charity is our own Gill Evans (Sally’s Mum!) who provided this short summary of the charity’s work
‘I met Joseph at the turn of the century He had recently completed a PhD in Manchester and moved to Bristol with his family to work with Indian and Pakistani Christians in one of my churches
His background: a Dalit, (an Outcaste, an Untouchable) in the caste system of India Sent as a very young boy
by missionaries, still working in India at that time, to their school In Raichur, he quickly succeeded and eventually taught in a Theological College
He had a dream, that one day there would be a Primary School in his natal village of Turukanadoni for the underprivileged Dalit children Today we have a twostorey building and 186 children on roll However, ALL children are welcome provided the parents agree for them to eat, work and play together without discrimination There is no charge: a midday meal, uniform and books are provided 186 children are now enrolled at our school Our results are excellent At the same time in the city of Raichur, a sewing project was started to teach basic sewing skills and enable women, mainly impoverished Muslim girls, to earn money by making children’s clothes, bodices for saris and hand and machine embroidery
We need to raise £35 thousand pounds a year to employ our staff and to provide everything needed for the children, in order to keep our heads above water It may not sound a lot BUT to raise that sum, generous people are much needed ’
An appeal letter will be distributed to members of the congregation to be returned to the church during October but if you don’t get that and would like to contribute please get in touch with Fraser Penny or Alison Gillies (sessionclerk@dunkeldcathedral org)
Supper
The Church of Scotland congregation is also having a Harvest supper on Friday September 29th in the Duchess Anne Tickets will be on sale later in the month and available by e-mailing: chanonrydunkeld@gmail com
The Meeting Place Friday Mornings from 10 00 to 12 00 at Duchess Anne Hall All Welcome
CLOTHING AND SHOES STARTS
TUESDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10-4
Donations welcome during opening hours
If you are interested in volunteering, please enquire in the shop for more info Find us on Facebook at 3 Churches Charity Shop
Three Churches in the Community Church Services and Contacts:
Weekly Services
Church of Scotland:
Dunkeld Cathedral at 11am
Every Sunday from Easter Sunday to Remembrance Sunday
Little Dunkeld Kirk at 11am
Every Sunday from the Sunday following Remembrance Sunday to Palm Sunday
Scottish Episcopal Church:
St Mary’s Birnam at 10am Every Sunday
Roman Catholic:
St Columba’s, Mass 6pm Every Saturday
Monthly and Occasional Services
Church of Scotland, Amulree
Third Sunday of the Month 2 15pm
Contact Details:
Church of Scotland:
Congregational Office Bearers:
Minister: Rev R Fraser Penny,B A B D , Cathedral Manse, Dunkeld, PH8 0AW
Tel: 01350 727249
e-mail: r fraserpenny@gmail com
Session Clerk: Alison Gillies
The Chanonry, Cathedral Street, Dunkeld PH8 0AW Tel: 07736 423198
e-mail: sessionclerk@dunkeldcathedral org
Treasurer: Mrs Louise Luke
The Chanonry, Cathedral Street, Dunkeld Tel: 07773 604372
Organist & Choir Leader: Mrs Hazel Murch Tel: 07867 642954
e-mail: hazel murch@gmail com
Parish Office: Mrs Jill McCrory The Chanonry, 07808 703641 email: chanonrydunkeld@gmail com www dunkeldcathedral org uk
St Mary's Episcopal (Anglican) Church, Birnam
Sunday Service 10 am - Holy Communion with hymns, music and sermon, followed by refreshments
The church is open daily for visitors, and prayers are said at 5 30pm on Fridays and 9 30am on Saturday
The Servite service is now held monthly on the last Saturday of each month at 2pm and is led ecumenically by members of the three churches in Dunkeld and Birnam It is not a communion service
The Rector:
Reverend Lesley-Ann Craddock
Priest in Charge of St Mary’s Birnam and Dunkeld St Mary’s rectory, St Mary’s Rd, Birnam, PH8 0BJ Tel: 07903 020509
email: lesley craddock@btinternet com
Part time = Friday, Saturday & Sunday I can also be found dwelling nr LochNess 01456486663
Treasurer:
Charles Cox
Vestry Secretary: Adrian Freer
Tel: 01821 650536
email: adrianfreer@btinternet com
Organist :
John Walker B Mus, FRCO, LRAM, ARCM
Tel: 01350 727755
(www stmarysbirnam org uk)
St Columba’s
Roman Catholic Church
Catholic Church Priest:
Fr Emmanuel Adindu MSP
Tel: 01796 472174
e-mail: stbridespitlochry@dunkelddiocese org uk
Roman Catholic Churches
Dunkeld is a village with a long history of Christian worship and we are pleased to continue that worship at St Columba’s in Birnam
Parish Priest: Fr Emmanuel Adindu MSP (Missionary of St Paul) Tel: 01796 472 174
Email: stbridespitlochry@dunkelddiocese org uk
Serving St Columba’s RC church in Birnam/ Dunkeld, St Bride’s RC church in Pitlochry and Our Lady of Mercy RC church in Aberfeldy
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
Weekday Masses:-
9 30 am Tuesday – Aberfeldy
9 30 am Wednesday, Thursday, Friday – Pitlochry
Holy days of Obligation:-
9 30am Birnam
12 30pm Aberfeldy
6 00pm Pitlochry
During Lent the Stations of the Cross will be observed after weekday mass in Aberfeldy and Pitlochry and before the Vigil Mass in Birnam
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available prior to mass in St Columba’s Please phone Father to arrange it
If there are any parishioners who are housebound and wish the Sacrament of Holy Communion, let Father know and this will be arranged
St Columba’s, St Mary’s Road, Birnam PH8 0BJ
St Bride’s, Rie-Achan Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5AL
Our Lady of Mercy, Home Street, Aberfeldy PH15 2AL Father Emmanuel in
One hundred days to save for Christmas
I know what you're probably thinking We've barely taken off our sunglasses and I'm already talking to you about Christmas ‘It's too early!’ is what you might be shouting at this article, but with all the wonderful things Christmas brings, it also brings cost That's why starting to plan and creating a Christmas budget 100 days before the big day can really help you avoid unnecessary spending, reduce stress and allow you to focus on the important things, like enjoying the festive period with friends and family when the time comes Decide on how much to save
With four months’ worth of pay packets between now and Christmas, now is the time to decide what you can save Think about what is realistic and manageable to set aside over the next 14 weeks Perhaps you’re able to save £1 per day? This may not sound like a lot to some people but if you start now, you’ll end up with £100 to spend by Christmas Day
Allocate your savings
Make a list of everything you want to buy for Christmas
Consider the decorations, food and treats, transport costs to see family or friends, as well as presents Reduce your spending by checking if you have any decorations left over from last year that you can reuse, or an unopened present that wasn’t your style but someone you know may love? Once you’ve decided on how much you’re going to save for Christmas, you’ll be able to work out how you want to split this amount to spend on different things
Spread your purchases out
Decide what you’re going to buy and when It can be as simple as buying one or two presents per month
Spreading the cost can give you peace of mind, plus you’ll be able to take advantage of any special offers or bargains available in the run up to Christmas Only buy what you can afford according to your budget No one wants to start the New Year stressed and in debt, and planning your purchases can help avoid that Sharing the cost
Families wanting to buy young children something special for Christmas may want to speak to relatives now about clubbing together to help cope with the cost, or even just recruit their help to manage their child’s expectations! If you’re overwhelmed with the number of presents you feel you need to buy, why not do Secret Santa? This is where everyone buys a present for just one person in the group, and is a great way to keep the Christmas spirit alive whilst making gift-giving more affordable
Access free budgeting tools
An online search will lead you to lots of free budgeting tools which can help you plan, save and track your Christmas spending Why not sign up to one of CAP’s hundreds of free money coaching workshops launching this autumn? The workshops are designed to help you manage your money better now and into the future You may never have planned ahead for Christmas before, but doing so can really take the pressure off, leaving you relaxed to really enjoy what matters
If you or someone you know is struggling with debt or other financial challenges, get in touch with Christians Against Poverty (CAP) for free expert guidance alongside practical and emotional support Find out more by visiting capscotland org or calling 0800 328 0006
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
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
Kilr y: 01575 560411
Blairgowrie: 01 250 798403
Mobile: 07834 258491
Dunbraantay Laundry
NOW OPEN!
Our Services:
• Service Wash/Drying/Ironing
• Self-Service Machines
• Laundry Products
• Equine Rug Wash & Pet Beds
• Holiday Cover Cleaning Service
• Self Catering, Holiday Homes, Private Homes & Small Businesses
Any questions or to discuss individual or business requirements, please contact: Kelly or Rosanagh on mob: 07871 695461 email: dunbraantaylaundry@yahoo com Facebook: @dunbraantaylaundry
Opening times: Tuesday - Friday 9am to 1pm Perth Road, Birnam PH8 0BH (behind the post office)
The Kiln Creative
Locally made pottery and pottery classes
Upcoming workshops at Birnam Arts:
Weekend workshop
16th & 17th of September
6-week block Thursday am starting 7th September
Weekend workshop 28th & 29th October
For more information and bookings: www.thekilncreativepottery.co.uk
A World Community 15
Loch of the Lowes
September at the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Loch of the Lowes The visitor centre is open every day from 10 30am to 5 00pm
The first hints of autumn foliage are starting to appear Coppers and yellows gleam amongst the trees’ green canopies and fields are ripening into rippling golden tapestries across the landscape Harvest time is upon us! Not just for humans but for wildlife It is an excellent time to forage for soft fruit but, please remember the golden rule to leave plenty of brambles, rowan berries, rosehips etc for the birds and mammals who depend on it
Summer visiting birds will be leaving the skies and while swifts will already have left, swallows, house martins and warblers won’t be long behind Our Loch of the Lowes ospreys will most probably be long gone (check our website) but we can look forward to new visitors, those who come down from the north to overwinter in Scotland
In August, when I write this, there is an unpleasant odour wafting as you walk along the path to the visitor centre The flies love the smell and the taste of a sweet liquid produced by the Stink Horn (Phallus Impudicus) After eating, the flies carry fungal spores to different areas The stink horn may make some blush, or others laugh but fungi like stink horn have their part to play in the environment at Loch of the Lowes They break down plant or animal matter, which they absorb as their food and then nutrients are released into the soil
by Janice Willsher
At this time of year you may see red squirrels (Scurius Vulgaris) eating and storing fungi They can eat fungi that are poisonous to us but for a squirrel they provide essential nutrients, like calcium, magnesium and potassium
Heads-up for early next month 7th October Fungi Foray with Tony Wilson at Loch of the Lowes Booking is essential as numbers are limited Fungi Foray with Tony Wilson | Scottish Wildlife Trust or call 01350 727337
If you would like to get hands on, there is a Heart of Scotland Forest Partnership ‘Day of Action’ on Thursday 28th September 10am to 3 00pm This is a day of conservation work near the slopes of East Schiehallion You would use hand tools to thin young trees, increasing the amount of natural light and growing space for the expanding woodland Book your free place via email; perthshireranger@scottishwildlifetrust org uk
Rowan Trees Matter!
Dunkeld and Birnam Community Arboretum, SGN and PKC work collaboratively with residents save two local Rowan trees
Good news! With support from our local Development Trust and Community Council, we have been able to stop two Rowan Trees in our Community Arboretum (meaning trees that are important to our sense of place and local community) from being cut down so they can continue to benefit our community and be enjoyed by future generations Rowan Trees are really important for biodiversity and our community sense of resilience as our volunteer so beautifully describes in their “If I were a tree” article But Rowan Trees are often under valued and so by celebrating our local arts and heritage, we have been trying to highlight how important Rowan Trees are for our sense of place and community connection Perthshire-born Lady Nairne, Carolina Oliphant (1766-1845) wrote the song lyrics for the famous Scottish song “The Rowan Tree “ and her lyrics remind us of the importance of trees for our sense of place, family, community and for remembrance You can find the song lyrics and links to youtube performances of the song on our website www communityarboretum scot One of the Rowan trees we saved is located outside the Coworking Space - sadly the two trees next to it are going to have to be cut down but SGN have agreed to help us redistribute the wood from these so the rich lichen and moss colonies have the best possible chance of spreading to other local trees The other tree we have saved was planted 20 years ago by Frank and Liz Ibbertson on the verge of Torlee Road next to the carrot field overlooked by Birnam Hill As you can see from the photo below, it is a beautiful shaped tree having been lovingly tended by Frank and Liz over the years You can locate and visit it using the “What Three Words” highlighted in bold in this Japanese Haiku we wrote as part of our campaign to save it:
Rowan Tree of Torlee Lady Nairne's song bids our clearcut community excavate memories
The poem in memory of Frank who passed in 2023 Liz is our charity’s first community tree watch volunteer
The Rowan Tree
This beautiful tree has a place in ancient Scottish folklore and is a valuable tree in the ecology of Scotland, especially in the Highlands where it provides food and shelter for insects, birds and mammals It can be seen, still growing but gnarled and browsed, around the ruins of abandoned cottages and blackhouses The long gone inhabitants grew Rowan (and Blackthorn) around their homes believing that these plants were guardians against so called witches and the evil eye Whether this apotropaic practice worked or not, these plants would provide food to brighten the plates and cups of drab winter diets with Rowanberry jelly and Sloe flavoured drinks
I feel I identify with Rowan because of its resilience It can grow from a berry dropped by a blackbird into a cleft in a rock, surviving on rainwater, moss and minerals from the rock eroding around it Seemingly few resources indeed I live with severe and enduring mental illness It takes a lot of resilience to keep going and survive with illnesses that can take away the resources that others have to help them thrive The Rowan is a survivor and I admire their ability to survive in a harsh climate Anon
Dunkeld and Birnam Community Arboretum Volunteer
Growbiz
Could You Become a GrowBiz Mentor?
With National Mentoring Day happening next month, it’s a good time to consider whether you can contribute to the Perth & Kinross rural business community by volunteering as a GrowBiz mentor
Mentoring is a positive way to share experience you’ve gained, develop your communication skills, gain confidence in guiding others, build a network of rewarding relationships and give back by helping someone unlock their full potential
Mentor Stuart Broster says: “I joined because I semiretired in May 2020, after a very busy career in the hospitality industry for 45 years; mentoring has allowed me to give something back, and has been very important for me as it allows me to keep my brain ticking over, and of course you meet some great people along the way ”
You don’t need prior mentoring experience or business qualifications to volunteer as a GrowBiz mentor, just some experience in running a business, managing a team, training, or being involved in community development work Our mentor training will show you how to hone and adapt these skills to the mentoring process
Mentor Steve Taylor says: “I got involved because I have quite a bit of experience across a range of businesses and brands, and thought it might be useful to share that I’ve been a working artist for the past 20 years or so, so have some small business/selfemployed experience too ”
The GrowBiz mentoring programme puts you in control of how much time you spend with your mentee and how often you meet with them, so even very busy people can get involved And you don’t have to advise mentees on more technical aspects of business the GrowBiz team can help with that
Our award-winning mentoring programme is accredited by the Scottish Mentoring Network
Find out more at www growbiz co uk/mentoring
Gardening and Growing Club
Talk about the Taybank’s Walled Garden September 13th 7:30pm, Birnam Arts
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
Everyone welcome – first meeting FREE Please come along and ‘try out’ being a member
Annual membership £20
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:
Sun 14th Oct, 2pm
Visit to Drummond Castle Gardens – Guided Tour (1 hour)
Wed 13th Dec, 6pm
Christmas Night Out, Atholl Arms Hotel
Wed 29 Nov, 7:30pm
Wreath Workshop by Bridget from Gatehouse Nursery, Birnam Arts
Sun 24th Feb, 2pm
Visit to Fingask (Andrew Threipland)
Wed 13th March 7:30pm – AGM, Birnam Arts
Lifts to any of the meetings/trips away can be arranged on request
Photo
Community Noticeboard
A Ripple of Kindness and Stories
Not all stories start with ‘Once upon a time’ or end ‘happily ever after’, they cover all sorts of topics be it dark tales, local history, myths and legends, wildlife, climate and the environment and much more The Story Ripple is offering funding for 1 hour story performances by a professional storyteller in October and November for community and education groups It’s a very easy form to complete and in return all the group needs to do is cover any travel expenses and do a good deed The closing date is 11 September I’m a Professional Storyteller based in Dunkeld and if you’d like to discuss ideas for a session contact me at: Lindseystoryteller@gmail com
For more information and to apply see: https://www sisf org uk/community-programme/ Dunkeld
Guide Hall
Looking for a venue for a regular or one-off meeting or class? Dunkeld Guide Hall is available to hire
Our lovely bright hall has capacity for meetings of around 40 people (as we have around 40 chairs!!) We have a large well-equipped kitchen and disabled access and a disabled toilet Due to the closure of the Playgroup in Dunkeld we have most mornings free, plus there are some afternoons and evenings available too If a regular user requires storage space this can be arranged Letting rates start at £15 for up to 1 5 hours The hall is centrally located in Little Dunkeld, behind the Royal School of Dunkeld Please contact Helen Taylor on: helen@glenfender org uk to discuss your requirements
The Meeting Place
The Meeting Place will be at St Mary's in Birnam on Friday 1st September then back to the Duchess Anne on 8th and following weeks
The BIG McMillan Coffee Morning will be on Friday 22nd Hope to see you there for a cup of tea/coffee and some delicious home baking 10-12
Thank You
Bob and Caroline Lindsay would like to thank everyone who attended the recent quiz night in the Royal British Legion Dunkeld along with all the local businesses and individuals who donated very generously to the Scottish charity Classrooms for Malawi CFM are committed to alleviating poverty through education by providing young people in Malawi with the opportunity to attend school in a safe, clean and friendly environment The sum of £1,840 was raised towards our target of £3,000 which will be used to provide bunk beds, mattresses and mosquito nets for boarding children who presently sleep on mats on concrete floors
The Fabulous Redwing band will be holding a concert in the Legion on 9th September at 8 30pm and all proceeds will be donated to the school Tickets £10 at the door and all welcome
Guide Dogs
Name A Puppy “Vicki” Campaign Says THANK YOU
The local Guide Dogs fundraising group, busily raising money to name a puppy “Vicki”, wants to send out a big thank you to the staff and patrons of the Atholl Arms Hotel for their support for our event in July We had a goods table under the marquee and raised nearly £150 on that rainy Saturday We would also like to thank Nigel Large and The Gael Spirits Company for their generous donation of a bottle of “The Gael” Gin, for our grown-ups tombola It’s was a huge (and delicious) success! We’re over half way to our goal of £2500 Thank you Birnam and Dunkeld
If you’d like to make a donation to our Name a Puppy “Vicki” campaign, please feel free to stop buy Kettles of Dunkeld and feed the Guide Dogs counter collection dog!
Craft Fairs Dates
4th and 5th November
Dunkeld & Birnam Community Orchard invite you to
Big Apple Day, Juicing and Picnic on Saturday 23 September from 11:30 to 14:30
Tea and Home Baking Apple Juicing Harvesting Community Stalls Activities for the Children
Bring your own picnic and picnic rug Community groups are welcome to showcase their activities
Contact Katharine on 07803 605612
Birnam Book Festival
Get ready for the Birnam Book Festival! Join us 21st and 22nd October 2023 for an exciting programme that dives into Legends, Lore, Stories &Song We'll be exploring the tragedy of the Scottish Witch Trials, celebrating Scottish folklore and finding out more about our local connections to Macbeth With talks, poetry, music, authors, workshops and family events, Birnam Book Festival 2023 will be a feast for the imagination
Tickets are now available for our first event, Heal & Harrow from www birnamarts com
Our full programme packed with exclusive BBF events will be announced soon!
Repair Cafe
Bin it? No Way!!
Have you still got things stored away waiting to be mended? Jumper with a hole in? Broken ornament? Lamp with a loose wire? Broken zip? Broken ornament? Anything portable - bring them to ourNext Cafe – Monday 4th September
Venue – Birnam Arts in the Arts Studio
Service by volunteers is free Only cost might be for spare parts Donations welcome
Come along and have a tea or a coffee and we'll see if we can help We'll also pass on repair skills if you want to learn to fix things
Do you like mending clocks? We have had a few brought in We have managed to mend some but need extra skill to help with the actual mechanism If you would like to help please get in touch
Contact for queries: dbrepaircafe@gmail com
RBS mobile bank visits Dunkeld and Birnam. Thursdays: Dunkeld, The Cross 14 50 pm to 15 20 pm and Birnam, Post Office 15.05 pm to 15.25 pm
Notes from a Councillor 17
The last month has been busy Perth & Kinross hosted the Grand Fondo cycle race The route went through some of the finest scenery in Perthshire Thank you to all the communities and residents who supported the cyclists at the roadside Many residents have commented on how much they enjoyed the event The earlier opening of the realigned carriageways as part of the CTRL project has also been welcomed For those who have driven the new section of road, am sure you will agree the progress daily is commendable Dunkeld to Perth has become a quicker journey
The gold medal winning Olympic Curling Team were recently awarded the freedom of the City of Perth at The Perth Salute. Lucinda Russell and Peter Scudamore were also awarded the same honour to recognise their achievements in the training of two Grand National winners It was an honour to be present at such a historic occasion Sporting achievements rightly acknowledged Previous recipients the honour over the centuries name Politicians, Royalty, Military and Industry Champions To date there has only been one other female to be honoured When next in Perth look out for the mural which has been painted on the side of a building depicting recent female sporting achievers Very impactful
The A9 conversation continues, what has been heartening, is the change in parliamentary politicians’ voices, even from The Green Party, seeing a need for road safety improvements on this route Accidents and countless near misses will continue to happen till the continual talking moves to action, which is hoped will be soon
Councillor Bailie Claire McLaren
Email: ClaireMcLaren@pkc.gov.uk
News from our Community Council
Dunkeld & Birnam Community Council Community Council Matters
New community council member -
Roseanna Preston-Jones
If you would like to contact the Community Council you can do so by emailing: dbcc correspondence@gmail com
You can also contact us via the messaging system on our facebook page
Of course, if you have the opportunity, then please do chat to any member of the Community Council if you bump into them while out and about
Please look on www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk for information about future dates and times
To read the minutes of previous meetings and to find the agenda for forthcoming meetings, see: www dunkeldandbirnamnews co uk/community-news/ community-council –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
I am a village native, second generation with strong ties to Birnam & Dunkeld and the surrounding area
Growing up in Dunkeld and Birnam was a privileged childhood, I don’t have to list the
JOHN SWINNEY, MSP for PERTHSHIRE NORTH can be contacted at: 17-19 LESLIE STREET, BLAIRGOWRIE Tel: 01250 876576
many amazing resources at our fingertips Suffice to say it's a very special place, and most residents would agree with me! Much of my 20’s and early 30’s were spent living and working in the U S A , an incredible time and one which exposed me to a wealth of experiences both personally and professionally
I was drawn back to Dunkeld in 2018 yearning for that strong sense of community, family and the natural beauty that surrounds us here in this special part of Scotland
As a parent I couldn’t ask for a more nurturing, natural landscape to educate and raise my daughter; ‘it takes a village’ they say and how lucky my daughter is to interact and learn from so many members of this village and attend the local primary school
My husband and I are very proud to own Redwood Wines in Dunkeld, we opened the business in 2021 We thoroughly enjoy
Pete Wishart MP: Member of Parliament for Perth and North Perthshire pete.wishart.mp@parliament.uk Perth Office: 63 Glasgow Road, Perth, PH2 0PE Tel: 01738 639598
interacting with the locals and visitors alike and participating in the progressive network of business owners within the village and Perthshire Aside from my obvious passion for food & wine, I am a keen gardener, often found down at the allotments My background in textile design still affords me with a passion for spinning wool, weaving and dyeing yarns. When the opportunity arose to join the community council I was eager to get involved As a business owner, mother and resident of Dunkeld I look forward to taking an active role and assisting where possible with the various issues raised within the community I endeavour to be a positive, fair, productive and enthusiastic voice on the council
I welcome any members of the community to contact me in person at Redwood Wines or by email at roseannapjones@gmail com
Roseanna Preston-Jones
September ‘Stick on the Fridge Page’
Local Organisations - Contact Details
Listing for local voluntary organisations are free however The Bridge welcomes donations to cover the cost of these listings Please send donations to the Advertising Manager, John B Gray at Highfield, Brae Street, Dunkeld, PH8 0BA Many thanks
Please contact the editor with amendments/additions Phone 01350+
Organsiations - General
3 Churches Charity Shop 07751 593421 Anne Graham
Alcoholics Anonymous (Helpline) 0800 917 7650
Chapter House Museum 727786 Ruth Brown (in Dunkeld Cathedral, open 7 days) archive@historicdunkeld org uk
Dunkeld & Birnam Historical Society 07584 434253 Dave Roberts daveroberts132@btinternet c om
Dunkeld & Birnam in Bloom 727288 Linda Speirs lindaladyhill@yahoo co uk
Dunkeld & Birnam Men s Shed 07777 696953 Jackie MacLean dbmensshed@outlook com
Dunkeld Masonic Lodge 724232 Tom Gordon secyonefour@gmail com
Dunkeld Community Archive 727786 Ruth Brown (Mon – Fri, 10am – 3pm) archive@historicdunkeld org uk
Friends of the Cathedral 728697 John Gray friends@dunkkeldcathedral org
Gardening and Growing Club (Horti) 07740 982465 Andrea Cox acox325@gmail com
National Trust for Scotland 07548 757060 Karen Clark kclark@nts org uk
Royal British Legion 728811 Kevin Forsyth Kevforsyth@hotmail com
RVS 01738 633975 Geoff Bird
(Supporting You At Home and perthsupportingyou@royalvoluntaryservice org uk Home Library Service)
SWRI 723203 / 07881 531565 Evelyn Menzies Evelynhmenzies@gmail com
SWRI Amulree 723203 Jane Anderson
The Field 07584 434253 Dave Roberts dblandtrust@btinternet com
The Orchard 727048 Katharine Melville kmelville@ogoroad com
The Meeting Place (Fri, DA) 07474 183042 Margaret Scott Tourist Association 723297 Adrian Blundell
Community Learning & Development
PKC CLD Staff 01738 459701 Cat Gordon/Alison May/ Robin Crawford dunkeldcomlearn@pkc gov uk U3A 07714 103309 Sandra Cairncross smcairnx@hotmail com
Sport Butterstone Hill & Trail Group 07761 673231 Adrian Davis wildoutdoorscotland@gmail com
Clan Bowmen (Field Archery) 727911 / 07786 073686 Arthur Robert Hewines bobhewines@hotmail com
Dunkeld & Birnam Angling Association secretary@dbaa co uk Billy Davidson
Dunkeld & Birnam Bowling Club 07977 911068 Gael Shaw Gaelshaw@btinternet com
Dunkeld & Birnam Golf Club 727524 Jackie MacLean (Visitors Welcome) dunkeld@outlook com
Dunkeld & Birnam Tennis Club 07731 631563 Morna Mitchell mornaamitchell59@gmail com
Glendelvine/Spittalfield Cricket Club 07816 982140 Andrew Ross (all ages)
Grass Track & Field Group 07736 724113 James Jarvis
Highland Perthshire Clay Shooting Club 07821940252 Ted Carr tedcarr@waitrose com
Leisure Group (Sports Hall Project) 727361 Alasdair Wylie awylie2002@yahoo co uk
Over 35’s Rugby 07738 006738 Iain Gordon iainhg@aol com
Running Club (8 – 12 year old,) 07761 673231 Adrian Davis (Mondays at 3 30pm) wildoutdoorscotland@gmail com
Swimming & Alexander Technique 07778 778007 Jan Osband jmosband@gmail com
Tai Chi 07551 029076 John Connelly dachutaichi@gmail com
Tayside Orienteers 727048 Bill Melville billmelville@ogoroad com Yoga 728783 Sue Atkinson atkinsue93@yahoo co uk
Music & Arts
BIPS 07872 505516 Melanie Brockway mbroc02@hotmail com
Birnam Arts 727674 Manager admin@birnamarts com arts@birnamarts com
Birnam Arts Ballet (Mon – Thurs, Emma Gray age 4 upwards & adults) ballet@birnamarts com Cathedral Tower Bell Ringers 742218 Iona Connor lowesfarm@hotmail com
Dunkeld Strathspey & Reel Society 07531 520476 Duncan Thomson duncanwthomson@yahoo co uk Film Society 727740 Tom Barnard tom barnard@btinternet com
Just Singin’, 7 30pm Weds (BA) 07765 405203 Katie Dalgliesh www justsingin co uk
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
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)
Hall Bookings
Local Organisations - Continued
Amulree Village Hall
07749 914906 Isabel Brady northamulree@btinternet com
Birnam Arts 727674 Manager
Caputh Hall 07832 235607 Lorna Lyle Chanonry 07808 703641 Jill McCrory chanonrydunkeld@gmail com
Dalguise Village Hall 07746 392268 Anne Cameron annedunkeld@gmail com
Duchess Anne 07808 703641 Jill McCrory chanonrydunkeld@gmail com
Health Community & Services
Birnam Library (Thu 5 – 7pm, Fri 01738 459709 Margaret Quigley 12 – 5pm, Sat 9 30am – 12 noon) birnamlibrary@culturepk org uk
Chemist (Dunkeld) 727210 Davidsons
Chemist (on Sunday) 01738 494610 Asda, Dunkeld Rd, Perth
Doctors 727269 Craigvinean Surgery
Dunkeld & Birnam Community Lachlan MacEwan Council dbcc chair@gmail com
13 Gardening & Growing Club talk by Donald from Taybank Walled Garden
21 Man Shed Right Lines Production 7 30pm Tickets £12 / £10* Birnam Arts
22 The Big Coffee Morning in aid of McMillan Duchess Anne 10 – 12pm
23 Big Apple Day 11:30 – 2:30 The Orchard
24 Songs and Silence Cathedral 6:30pm
26 Friends of Asheville NC AGM Community CoWorking Space/zoom 7 30pm
27 Community Market in aid of Santa Day Outside Birnam Hotel 11-3pm
28 A9 Community Group meeting Birnam Arts/zoom 7 30pm
29 Harvest supper Duchess Anne Tickets chanonrydunkeld@gmail com
October
7
Fungi Foray with Tony Wilson at Loch of the Lowes Booking essential Fungi Foray with Tony Wilson | Scottish Wildlife Trust or call 01350 727337
8 Singing and Rainbows Concert Colleen and Katie 11am £5
12 Four Go Wild in Wellies Indepen-dance Company 11am
14
Recommended age 3 -5 years
Adult and Child £10 Extra Adult / Child £3 Birnam Arts
Gardening & Growing Club Visit to Drummond Castle Gardens –Guided Tour 2pm (1 hour) acox325@gmail com
21-22 Birnam Book Festival
November 4th – 5th November Craft Fair, Drill Hall, Dunkeld
29 Gardening & Growing Club Wreath Workshop by Bridget from Gatehouse Nursery 7:30pm, Birnam Arts acox325@gmail com
December 13 Gardening & Growing Club Christmas Night Out, Atholl Arms Hotel 6pm acox325@gmail com
2024
February
23 Annual Walking Meeting ‘How We Move About Our Community’ 24 Gardening & Growing Club Visit to Fingask (Andrew Threipland) 2pm acox325@gmail com
March
13 Gardening & Growing Club AGM Birnam Arts 7:30pm acox325@gmail com
For dates further ahead see: www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk
PAINTING & DECORATING
Interior / Exterior Work
bizzabooks@gmail.com
Pet Cremation
individual cremation services for your beloved pets 07522 174883
perthshirepetcremation co uk
Dunkeld Horse Grazing & DIY Livery
or Email Karen: 07759 701413 gapdunkeld@gmail com
Call: Mon-Fri 8am-8pm Text: 7 days 8am-8pm FREE ESTIMATES HONEST, RELIABLE SERVICE
Grass cutting, Hedge cutting, Strimming, Leaf collection, Weeding/dig over, Edging, Gravel footpaths, Aerating, General tidy-up. All General Garden Maintenance work carried out to the highest quality on every job, everyday
