The Bridge April 2024

The

Bridge www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk

Edition 405 April 2024

Local News, Events and Information for the Dunkeld & Birnam Area This Issue: Community News

1,2,6,12,15

Editorial

2

Birnam Arts

3

Sports Hub

5

Growbiz

6

Classified:

7,8,9,13,14

Paths & Nature Group - 5

3 Churches in the Community 10 - 13 On Saturday 24th March people from across the community assembled to make banners, write a community letter to our Councillors to call on them to save Birnam library.

See page 5 for full story

Community News Save the Date!

Living History Weekend 4th & 5th May (10am to 5pm)

World Community

15

Notice Board

16

Notes from a Councillor

17

Arboretum - 5

News from our Community Council

17

Fiddle Tree Donation to DB Trad Group - see p4

Health and Wellbeing Hub Bring the family to the our Living History Weekend in Dunkeld (Stanley Hill Park).

FREE EVENT organized by Dunkeld Archives. www.historicdunkeld.org.uk ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Reaching out to all our freelance health and wellbeing practioners … massage therapists; chiropodists, audiologists, nail technicians …

We are opening a ‘health and wellbeing hub’ at the Guide Hall to support your businesses.

See page 16 and contact us us at: coworkingdunkeld@gmail.com

www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk

Daisy Brake - 16

Stick on the Fridge Classified

18

19,20

_________________________ Copy Dates for the Next Issue: Friday 12th April publication Friday 26th April _________________________

Editorial

2 The Bridge Edited by volunteers for the people of Dunkeld, Birnam and the surrounding villages since 1974.

Thank you for all your support.

The Bridge Contacts Editor: Sally Robertson E-mail: editor@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk _________________________ Advertising Manager: Kirsty Gowans Tel: 07967 117149 E-mail: adverts@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk Advertising rates from £7.32 per month. Contact the Advertising Manager for details. _________________________ Please e-mail your article to the editor at: editor@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk or post to: The Bridge Dunkeld & Birnam Community Co-Working Space Lagmhor, Dunkeld PH8 0AD _________________________

Facebook Page Dunkeld & Birnam, The Bridge _________________________ Download Online: www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk _________________________

It will be 141 years in September since a library and reading room was opened in Birnam. I think I’m on pretty safe ground to suggest that none of us were there to celebrate the opening – however many of us may be here to see it closing unless there is a change in the current direction of travel. As you can read in the story on page 5, PKC have given us a one year stay of execution on our current model to work with Culture Perth and Kinross to develop ‘a sustainable community led model of library provision’ As I stop to think about it all it occurs to me that we had that right at the start.

We seemed to have managed before Culture PK was formed in 2016 and before PKC came into existence in 2006 and before Tayside was formed in 1975 and before Perthshire and Kinross-Shire in 1930 and before Perthshire came into existence in 1890. So maybe we just get on with it ourselves – like we did at the start.

You know what they say ... what comes around goes around. If you have any ideas on how we can make this work please join in with the dialogue.

By contrast it makes the Scottish Wildlife Trust turning 60 look like a young whipper snapper of an organisation.

However many congratulations and thanks to everyone involved at SWT over the years for the amazing conservation work done at the Loch of the Lowes. Why not pop along to their open day on Saturday 27th April and celebrate it SWT turning 60 - see page 18 You may even be lucky enough to catch sight of an osprey which hopefully will once again make it safely home to the tree tops of the loch after a mammoth migration back from Africa.

And as for The Bridge turning 50 – pah! A babe in arms.

However like the library we need to think about a

suainable community led model for our communications provision going forward. What we have is neither sustainable or resilient and is too reliant on me trying to proof and edit copy in the very margins of life. Just writing this I can recall trying to edit The Bridge in some situations that would make you laugh – from hanging out of a window in Shetland to try and get a mobile, signing off proofs in airports, pouring over a computer on a kitchen table in Arnisdale and tonight, working away on the Isle of Skye, wondering whether I will manage to write anything even vaguely coherent.

Last month I was asked about our editorial policy. For the past 20 years the editorial policy, except in extreme situations when I consult with others, is mostly whether I think the article will be of interest to you and doesn’t, in my view, cause offence. However wherever there is a difference of opinion I try to publish both sides of the debate either in the same edition or subsequent editions.

If you have ideas of how you would like communications to be managed for the community going forward please fill our the survey on page 4 or drop into the coworking space on the next Super Saturday on 13th April and have a chat. You might even want to get involved in some way. At the moment we are exploring different people taking on responsibility for different areas eg historical; things that grow etc. In the meantime to all you lovely, kind people who take the very rough with the occasionally smooth and forgive all the typos, accidental omissions and editorial decision – many thanks. (PS and on that note a thousand apologies to the SWT for managing to leave out their March article. Very much an oversight on my part.)

Sally Robertson

Birnam to Ballinluig A9 Community Group Working constructively to get the best community outcomes from the A9 dualling proposals

The next A9 Community Group meeting will be on Thursday 25th March 2024, 7.30pm at Birnam Arts.

All welcome!

Thanks to everyone who came to our community drop in event on the dualling proposals for Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing “A9- The Road Ahead” at the Duchess Anne on 2nd March, and to all those who have returned our survey questionnaire either on paper or online. (see more below) If you’ve not yet done so and would like to share your views, we’d really like to hear from as many of you as possible. More copies of that are available at Birnam Arts reception, with a returns box, or in the March “Bridge” (about 900 went to households) or online at the QR code below.

The Transport Scotland consultation officially finished on 17th March but if you still want to give them feedback or ask a question you can write to them at A9dualling@jacobs.com At 2nd March drop in event at the Duchess Anne we weren't overwhelmed by crowds but for a good part of the time there was a steadyish flow and certainly the opportunity to have quality and unpressured chat with folk . These were a mixture of those local who were quite familiar with background and recent developments, some local/ area still relatively unfamiliar with things, and a few non resident A9 users who'd stopped to have a break and seen our signs. A suggestion made at the A9 Community Group meeting on 14th March was to consider having another drop in event, on an evening which might be more convenient for some.

Our questionnaire returns so far (18th March) indicate, in summary - Very high (over 90%) familiarity with the Community Preferred Route (CPR) voted for in 2108.

- Over 60% satisfied or very satisfied with CPR, 20% not (rest neither satisfied or dissatisfied or didnt reply) - Less than 40% satisfied or very satisfied with Transport Scotland Preferred Route (PR), over 45% dissatisfied or very dissatisfied - this figure rose to 70% of returns at the 2nd March event and 85% of the most recent returns in the Birnam Arts box by 18th March, almost all specifically to do with the “at grade” at the station/ failure to reconnect Station Road fully with the station as per CPR. - 70% want some element of the PR changed 53% satisfied or very satisfied with PR for Birnam Junction, 25% not (rest neither satisfied or dissatisfied or didnt reply) 30% satisfied or very satisfied with PR at the Station, 45% not (rest neither satisfied or dissatisfied or didnt reply) See note above - About 10% indicate opposition to a roundabout at Dunkeld Junction - Over 75% want the A9 Community Group to continue These are preliminary but do make one thing clear: as more folk engage again, the growing levels of dissatisfaction with the Preferred Route “At Grade” proposals at the Station – the clearest departure from the Community Preferred Route as we have pointed out in our earlier Bridge entries, and at significant variance with this aspect of the Community Objectives developed to input to the Co-Creative process.

The full details of the Transport Scotland Preferred Route with a virtual exhibition and a fly through of the stretch including the Station proposals can be found at: A9 P2 Dualling Virtual Event Space The full Stage 2 Route Assessment document for Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing which is the basis for the Preferred Route remains available to read online https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/637b0abb542842269c31d0c41a901bf8

____________________________________________________________________________

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 Our page on "The Bridge" website, including key documents for download is: http://www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk/community-council/a9-dualling

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 Wednesday 3rd April Beatrix Potter Storytelling 11am Six Cats 2.30pm Free events Step into a world of imagination, reading and storytelling as actor John Anderson brings poetry and short stories to life.

Beatrix Potter Storytelling: 11am: The wonderful stories of Beatrix Potter, especially for the younger children.

6 Cats: 2.30pm: This performance is built around a selection from T S Eliot’s anthology Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats and brings to life six wonderful feline characters. A charming 45 minutes show for adults and primary school children celebrating the magical words of this great poet.

Birnam Institute Players present Old Dogs by Steve Raw Thurs 4th, Fri 5th, Sat 6th April, 7pm Tickets: £10 Adults £5 U16s + Booking Fee Ages 14+ recommended A hilarious sitcom - think Last of the Summer Wine meets Carry On! A care home, three male residents, a prostitute, an accidental ‘murder’ - join the BIPs team for another fun-packed show, hitting farce level as the desperation builds and the misunderstandings pile up!

Autumn Voices Friday 12th April, 7.30pm £5 Adult/£3 over 60s + Booking Fee Their second outing featuring local writing, this event features readings by group members of new work written over the past six months, covering everything from saints and witches in Perthshire woods to quarrelling sparrows. Also featuring Morag Anderson.

Neon Waltz Saturday 20th April, 7.30pm Tickets £12 + Booking Fee Hailing from the northern tip of mainland Scotland, Neon Waltz are a four-piece indie band with a rich, melodic sound calling to mind their '60s influenced forebears.

The band has toured extensively throughout the British Isles, leading to sell out shows, including Glasgow’s iconic King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, and landing support slots with artists such as Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, The Coral and DMA’s. A brilliant night out guaranteed!

The Tommy Smith Youth Jazz Orchestra Sunday 28th April, 2pm Duration 2hrs Tickets: £12 Adults / £5 18-25/Students / + Booking Fee/ Free Under 16s A superb concert of music and improvisation by the talented TSYJO, showcasing music by Miles, Ella, Piazzolla, Gillespie, Count Basie and Duke Ellington.

Since Tommy Smith formed the youth orchestra in 2002, it has forged over 125 masterful young musicians, many of them acclaimed award winners who have gone on to have successful national and international careers.

With special guests, Michael Owers and Ryan Quigley.

Plus Esther Kent Play Exhibition until April 21st and much more at Birnamarts.com

3 Birnam Arts Café open Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 - 16:00.

Gallery, Gift Shop and Beatrix Potter Exhibition.

Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30 - 15:30. ____________________________

Help to Put the Fun into Fundraising!

We are looking to reinvigorate our fundraising efforts and need your help to run a series of fun, charity events throughout the year, all with aim of raising much needed support for Birnam Arts, your local arts charity.

From a glitzy Mid-Summer or Winter Ball to a Burns Supper or kiltwalk, to smaller events and activities such as Local Talk and music gigs, we need your help to bring the fun (and funds!) back into Birnam Arts.

Help us to keep the lights on and strengthen the bonds between the communities we serve, please connect with us and volunteer.

We need your energy, ideas and support! If you would like to know more, or to get involved please pop in and say hello at reception or contact us via email to manager@birnamarts.com ____________________________

Please check the website for all our ongoing and one off workshops throughout the Winter months – birnamarts.com ___________________________________

Dunkeld Cathedral Art Exhibition Registration will open on 1st May until 31st May for the 2024 annual Art Exhibition.

Artists may enter up to 3 pieces of work.

Entries to be made online at www.dunkeldartexhibition.com We will take in pictures on Sunday 21st and Monday 22nd July at the Duchess Anne, Dunkeld. The Exhibition will open on Tuesday 30th July and run until Thursday 29th August. Any unsold work must be collected on Saturday 2nd September.

All enquiries to ____________________________ dunkeldart@aol.com.

Spring Singing!

Just Singin', your friendly, local Community Choir, returns after the Easter break to start our Spring term on Wednesday 17th April at 7.30pm in the upstairs room Birnam Arts. We are delighted to welcome back one of our talented local tutors, Hazel Murch, well known to many as the leader of the Dunkeld Cathedral Choir. Hazel will be leading us for the first four weeks of our term (17th & 24th April and 1st and 8th May). Please join us if you can!

We are also delighted to be able to support another singing opportunity - a one day workshop with the very talented Alice Marra who has run fantastic sessions with us in the past. As well as running various community singing groups in Dundee, Alice is involved with Sistema Scotland. She has appeared regularly at the Celtic Connections festival with her band, The Hazey Janes, and recently collaborated with writer Liz Lochhead and saxophonist Steve Kettley to record a jazzy backing to the spoken word on 'The Light Comes Back'. Alice is passionate about music and about giving everyone the chance to sing!

The workshop is taking place from 10.30am - 4pm on Saturday 27th April at Perth Methodist Church, Scott Street, Perth PH2 8JN. Alice promises a wide variety of song styles, with something for everyone. With financial support from Just Singin', the workshop is being offered at a cost of only £15. If you would like to join us on the day, please email carole.a.reid@hotmail.co.uk to book. Places are limited and filling up fast! ____________________________

Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries 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 Books on Wheels For individuals who cannot get out and about to visit the library, this includes books in large print and audio formats. For further information, please get in touch with the Birnam Library. 01738 459709 / birnamlibrary@culturepk.org.uk.

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

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

____________________________ Birnam Library Birnam Library opening hours: Thursday 5pm-7pm Friday 12pm-5pm Saturday 9.30am-12pm Birnam Library, Station Road, Birnam DUNKELD PH8 0DS 01738 459709 birnamlibrary@culturepk.org.uk ____________________________

Arts News continued

4 Fiddle Tree Donation to DB Trad Group

At Birnam Arts in February , The Fiddle Tree Collective were very pleased to hand over a cheque for £385 pounds to the DB Trad Group.

This group offers free weekly tuition and instrument provision in traditional Scottish music with the opportunity to play in their trad bands and perform live music. The small group classes are for fiddle and accordion, and run weekly through term time with tutors Karys Watt and Gill Hunter.

The Fiddle Tree Collective had been hugely influential in promoting traditional and world music in Highland Perthshire over more than 10 years, in attracting some superb artists to the area, and in staging over 90 successful concerts, ceilidhs and school workshops including the very popular New Year Ceilidh in the Birnam Hotel . In 2015 it was decided to stop and that any funds should be donated to a suitable organisation that would promote live music . They have now found this organisation in the DB Trad group who are doing a wonderful job promoting live traditional music for young people and Fiddle Tree are delighted to be able to support them.

Karys Watt and Gill Hunter from the DB Trad Group receiving the cheque from some representatives of Fiddle Tree, Dave Roberts, Alasdair Wylie and Simon Yearsley.

The Trad groups welcomes fiddle and accordion players, string, wind and brass players, guitarists, pianists and more. You don’t need to know about Scottish trad music, we’ll teach you how to play a variety of really old tunes as well as recently written ones. 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 Classes and bands run weekly during term–time at Birnam Arts and open to anyone aged P5 – S6.

Email dbtradgroup@gmail.com or call 07958 324 766 for more info. ____________________________

A celebration of International Womens Day led by the Atholl Caileachs On Friday 9th March a celebration for International Women's Day through song, story, music and dance took place at Birnam Arts. Cailleachs are women of knowledge and skill within a Community.

The Dunkeld and Birnam area is bubbling over with talented professional performers so what better way to celebrate International Women's Day than for them to showcase their skills.

The evening raised over £700 for RaasacPK - a worthy cause fitting for International Womens Day. “Honestly it was such a wonderful event. I was so uplifted by the whole experience. Every artist was phenomenal, I loved the Scottish provenance, the way they entwined stories dance and musical talent, I loved the individuality of each performance and made me feel so uplifted and happy it really cemented the whole theme of International Women’s day. Honestly as a member of the audience, I can say It was genuine tonic for the soul, I left feeling absolutely joyful."

The Atholl Cailleachs are: soprano Collen Nicol, singer songwriters Michelle Rodley and Gill Hunter , pianist Muriel Johnstone, Karys Watt Fiddle & Emma Black piper, dancer Lyndsay Douglas, author Jane Archer & storyteller Lindsey Gibb. ____________________________

Film Club Listings: All films start at Sunday April 14th 2024 Anatomy of a Fall 2h 30m France 2023 The story begins when Samuel is found dead in the snow outside the isolated chalet where he lived with his wife Sandra, a German writer, and their partially-sighted 11-year-old son Daniel. An investigation leads to a conclusion of "suspicious death": it's impossible to know for sure whether he took his own life or was killed.

Sandra is indicted, and we follow her trial which pulls the couple's relationship apart. Daniel is caught in the middle: between the trial and their home life, doubts take their toll on the mother-son relationship.

Sunday April 21st 2024 Laura 1h 28m 1944 Detective Lieutenant Mark McPherson (Dana Andrews) investigates the killing of Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney), found dead on her apartment floor before the movie starts. McPherson builds a mental picture of the dead girl from the suspects he interviews. He is helped by the striking painting of the late lamented Laura hanging on her apartment wall. But who would have wanted to kill a girl with whom every man she met seemed to fall in love? To make matters worse, McPherson finds himself falling under her spell too. Then one night, halfway through his investigations, something seriously bizarre happens to make him rethink the whole case.

____________________________

The Future of Community Communication – Launching Super Second Saturdays – Free cake and coffee!

In 2024 The Bridge will be 50 years old! What does the next 50 years of communications look like for our community?

Please share you thoughts and ideas via letter, email, survey monkey, FB messenger or old fashioned chat : The downstairs area of the coworking space will be opening as community free space on the second Saturday of the month. Call in and share your thoughts about communications in the community, or any other community matter, over free coffee and cake.

Super Second Saturdays – Free coffee and cake!

Saturday 13th April, 10 – 4pm Saturday 11th May, 10 – 4pm Survey Monkey Link :

.

Community News continued Dunkeld and Birnam Paths and Nature Action Group

replant with native plants including holly, elder and woodrush. We also started improving drainage on the path to Loch of The Lowes which we cleared of obstructive vegetation last year. Work on both projects will continue on Sunday 14th & Saturday 27th April.

Please let us know if you want to help.

We will also be building swift nest boxes in April for installation around the village. If you’d like to help build a box, or host one at your home, let us know.

Please contact us via stewartpritchard@aol.com for more information.

____________________________ Dunkeld and Birnam Arboretum

5

Graeme, from Ethos, who is helping Dunkeld and Birnam Community Arboretum with the design of a new / renovated Stanley Hill path from the community archive to the north car park - thanks to grant funding from Paths for All Ian Findlay Path Fund. Lots of information shared about unmet needs, expertise, worries, ideas and experiences is invaluable! The next step will be to visit the Paths for All path surface demonstrator site in Lothian, collate community input, prepare/submit the planning application and apply for funding to get it done! While that is all happening, do feel free to reach out to us to find out more www.communityarboretum.scot/ or how you can have fun and get involved as a member and of course email dbcabigtrees@gmail.com to share your thoughts! ____________________________

Save Birnam Library!

On Saturday 24th March, in advance of PKC’s budget meeting on 28th March, a wide range of people from across the community assembled to make banners, write a community letter to our Councillors to call on them to save the library and to take part in a lively and hopeful demonstration of support for our library.

A good start was made in March at clearing some snowberry by Jubilee Park where, in April, we plan to

Thank you to all the organisations and individuals who have made time on 8th March 2024 to speak to

Around 100 people attended - 64 people signed the letter and more came and went. Following the event we sent the letter, photos of the demonstration and a campaign video prepared by and with children from the community to local councillors and senior staff at Culture Perth and Kinross. The campaign video, which was widely shared, demonstrates how valued the library is, how much people use it, and how much a part of the community our library is.

On 28th March, PKC approved an amendment to the budget to agree an extra £191,000 to "maintain rural library provision for one year to allow communities, Culture Perth and Kinross and the Council to work together to develop a sustainable community led model of library provision in localities". This news was widely welcomed, however, the lack of certainty for the future of the library and PKC’s financial support is very concerning with some children asking “when will we have to start next year’s campaign?” ____________________________

Community Archive OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm 12 The Cross, Dunkeld, PH8 0AN. www.historicdunkeld.org.uk archives@historicdunkeld.org.uk 01350 727786 Are you researching your family or house ?

Have you an ancestor who served in the Scottish Horse Regiment ?

Would you like to learn more about the local history through our exhibitions ?

Are you looking for a fun and interesting hobby where you will meet new friends ?

Come and visit us soon ….

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 20th March (10am to 3.30pm in the Duchess Anne) – Art Workshop – Tickets available on Eventbrite 23rd & 24th March – Find us at Birnam Arts for the Niel Gow Festival 4th & 5th May (10am to 5pm) – Bring the family to the our Living History Weekend in Dunkeld (Stanley Hill Park) – FREE EVENT – See our web site for information and links to ticketed performances.

Young Archaeologist Club meet fortnightly on a Thursday in the Community Archive at 4pm – next meeting Thursday 11th April. ____________________________

6

Community News continued

Spring Growth with GrowBiz Enterprise Support Whether you want to start, develop or grow your rural business or self-employed practice, here’s some ways GrowBiz can support you this spring: Get started: If you’re thinking about becoming self-employed, have a business idea you’d like to explore, or are in the early stages of starting up, speaking with a GrowBiz Enterprise Facilitator can give you the confidence, motivation and knowledge to get going.

Develop your skills: GrowBiz holds regular online learning sessions on useful topics to help you develop the skills needed to run a business, and also align it with net zero values and your own wellbeing. We also hold networking events where you can be inspired by other business owners.

Overcome obstacles: Do you have a specific question about your business, an idea you need help to think through, or accountability for a task you’ve been putting off? Book a half hour drop-in slot at one of our online support sessions on Thursday afternoons to chat instantly with an advisor.

Personal growth: Would you like to increase your confidence, get better at making decisions, or be able to clearly define your goals and intentions? You’d benefit from having a trained GrowBiz volunteer mentor.

Take the next step: The next step in your business could be anything from applying for funding, to taking on your first employee, to creating a website, to improving your work/life balance, to becoming carbon neutral. No matter how big or small, we can help you identify and reach it.

Email connect@growbiz.co.uk to arrange a 1-1 chat with an Enterprise Facilitator, or visit www.growbiz.co.uk to see all of our events and services. ____________________________

Third Annual Walking Meeting – 24 February 2024 increasing road safety and improving how we move around in our communities A huge thank you to all who turned out for our third annual walking meeting - held in and around Dunkeld and Birnam to explore issues related to how we move about our community, and road safety. Co-hosted by Dunkeld and Birnam Community Council, this was well attended with a huge variety of issues raised. A brief report will be available shortly and will include how ideas and concerns will be shared further with our local elected representatives, and with Perth and Kinross Council officials. More to follow in future editions of The Bridge. ____________________________

3 Churches Charity Volunteers AND What goes on behind the scenes?

For those readers who may be new to the area, the 3 Churches Charity Shop in Dunkeld is totally run and managed by volunteers. We pay no salaries and we buy in no stock. We are always in need of new volunteers, whether waiting on customers or keeping the shelves and hangers filled.

We receive donations during the week and they pile up until Monday morning, when the shop is closed, and a team of 5 works up to 4 hours sorting and preparing the shop for the week ahead.

Those who donate items trust that we will get the best possible prices for their donations and their generosity reflects this.

Research Research is not everyone’s ‘cup of tea’ but many do find it fascinating.

Every item of bric-a-brac, jewellery, paintings and books we receive is scrutinised: for age; for condition; for its potential value and maybe eventually for its actual value.

(please note that if we find a particular item has been valued at a substantial sum, we do our best to try to locate the donor) Yesterday I took a few items of jewellery to be valued, 2 of them broken, no marks on them, but just maybe they were gold. I walked out with a cheque for £200 for the charity. Searching through jewellery, silver items etc. is very time consuming, but can be very interesting and can be very profitable for the charity.

Sometimes we receive stamp collector’s albums. We contact the Philatelist Society and they ask us to email photographs of certain pages for valuation.

People donate sets of glasses and decanters, possibly Edinburgh Crystal, Waterford, Stuart or perhaps, Baccarat?

Record Albums are a potential goldmine. When we receive a box load of pop albums we call in a local specialist to advise.

Memorabilia?

Beatles, Elvis, WW1, WW2, etc. Research. Research.

And more research.

Some examples: A WW2 holster with a name inside. After much research we sent it to the Guernsey museum.

A Chinese style iron pot brought over £500 from auction.

A very dirty painting resembling work of one of the Colourists realised over £1000 at auction.

If you would like to help with any of the above and especially if you have knowledge of any of the items we research, please contact me, Dianne Simpson, Dianne.simpson@btinternet.com. ____________________________

Lost Package In, I believe, the mid 1980's , many young college students from Scotland participated in a work and travel program during the summer. Some came to an Atlantic coastal resort, Ocean City, Maryland in the United States. Our family had a small cottage there which we used during the summer, travelling back and forth each weekend from the Washington, DC area.

One summer we became acquainted with several of the students who were living in apartments near our cottage and we would host the group for Sunday dinners and celebrate birthdays. In addition to the Scots there were students from England, Ireland and Germany. It was all great fun. At the end of the summer, the students, having completed their work, would travel for a couple weeks before returning home and to their schools.

Recently while doing some cleaning we found a package in a cabinet with a note from two Scottish lassies saying that after their sightseeing travel they would return to our cottage for the package to take home. Well they must not have returned.

We would like to send them their package which contains doll house furniture.

We only know the first name of the girls, Helen and Katrina. We think they were cousins. Due to a couple etchings they gifted us of local historical places in Scotland, Falkland Palace and a scene of Dunkeld, we believe they were from that area. We also have a group photo of the students in which Helen and Katrina appear.

Wouldn't it be fun to locate the girls and reunite them with the treasures they collected while here.

Can you help ? If you have any ideas please contact editor@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk Thank you David and Joyce, Ocean City, MD

____________________________

Connect …

Linking Asheville, North Carolina, USA and Dunkeld & Birnam Hi, I am Ruby and I am a Ranger with the Dunkeld and Birnam Unit.

Recently, I was on a Zoom call with our sister city’s guide unit, Asheville GirlGuides.

It was at 5:30pm for them, and 11pm for us. We spent the hour discussing Climate change, and what they do for the planet. One girl told us she recycles carefully, while another told us she comes up with ways to help her school combat climate change.

We also talked about what it’s like living here and there, I found out that while we see squirrels, deer and rabbits most often, they see these sometimes but regularly see bears. Over in Asheville they mostly all go to different schools as there are so many schools there.

This connection was made by Climate Cafe for international Women’s Day and World Thinking Day, and I really enjoyed meeting these inspirational girls. Hopefully one day I will get to meet them in person.

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Dunbraantay Laundry NOW OPEN! 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.

Our Services: • Service Wash • Ironing • Duvets and Large Items • Same Day Wash (Please ask for further details) • Self Serve • Horse Rugs & Pet Beds • Laundry Products Opening times: Monday - Friday 9am to 4pm (closed weekends) Contact: Kelly - 07871 695461 email: dunbraantaylaundry@yahoo.com Facebook: @dunbraantaylaundry Perth Road, Birnam PH8 0BH (behind Birnam Post Office)

Fraser Mills - NICEIC registered All domestic and commercial work undertaken Tel: 07545 078968 Email: fm.electrical143@gmail.com FM-Electrical.co.uk Locally based

*Post Office Amended Opening Hours* Commencing Monday 8th April Monday / Wed / Fri 9 - 12 & 2 - 5 Tues / Thurs 2 - 5 Saturday / Sunday CLOSED

Murthly Village Hall Hire From £10 per hour Events hall and kitchen facilities for Birthday parties, Indoor sports, Dances, Gatherings, Quiz Nights and more.

Contact: murthlyvillagehall@outlook.com Tel: 01738 710408

Lyndsey Douglas Local Jewellery Designer and Maker ornaichjewellery.com ornaich.jewellery@gmail.com Òrnaich.Jewellery ornaich_jewellery

T

in the Commun s e h c r u h C e it y hre

Thoughts from a highland snug toward the joyful light of Easter There is a constant in the cosmos and that constant is God , there is a flow of energy around our planets , stars, and dust, and that is Gods desire to love all that is seen and unseen. There is a desire which is created by God in all of us; the desire to create positive and loving thought, action and spirituality turning the non physical into physical. One is connected to that flow of creation and desire which never leaves. One might resist it unknowingly or intentionally, however God never will intentionally resist you.

My own desire to be fully present in the flow of love and the desire to be the best me that I can be even only for one moment- hopefully longer and eventually eternally - enables me to be still and to listen deeply ; after all we only hear what we honestly want to hear, and in my daily meditations and moments I feel and hear the joy and positivity of life.

Joy isn’t something that comes and goes away, joy and well-being are one’s natural state; yes even in catastrophic circumstances!

One can return to a place of being calm, loved, heard, respected, and healthy. Wisdom comes when one realises that the resistance build up of life’s constant insistence for one’s attention is greater than one’s desire for Gods love. One can find that sweet spot of balancing both the input of positivity and the output of daily ‘doing’ life!

I AM because I AM desired me to exist, and I love because God loved me first.

Matthew 7:7-8 (NIV) “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

Sit still for a while , intentionally letting the ‘doing’ go, and ‘feel’ God in you. Ask a silent question about how your life can be more love ; and God will silently and wondrously reply.

Blessings Lesley-Ann xxxx ____________________________

Church of Scotland Services March 31st.

Easter Sunday 9.00am. – Communion service in the Cathedral 10.30am. – Easter Egg Hunt in the Cathedral grounds 11.00am. – Morning Service in the Cathedral April 7th.

11.00am – Morning Service in the Cathedral 6.30pm – Prayers for Help & Healing in St. Mary’s April 14th.

11.00am – Morning Worship in the Cathedral April 21st.

11.00am – Morning Worship in the Cathedral 2.15pm – Service in Amulree Kirk April 28th.

11.00am – Morning Worship in the Cathedral May 5th.

11.00am – Morning Service in the Cathedral 6.30pm – Prayers for Help & Healing in Little Dunkeld Kirk Every Sunday there is chance to meet together over tea and coffee after the service in the Chanonry. ____________________________

Holy Week

Youth Group

On the Thursday of Holy Week (28th. March) there is a Communion Service in the Cathedral at 7pm. to remember the events of the night Jesus was betrayed and handed over to be crucified.

On Good Friday the Parish church and St. Mary’s Episcopal Church hold a join service. This year it is in the Cathedral at 7pm. ____________________________

A group for all P.7s and upwards meets during term time in the Duchess Anne on Thursday evenings.

Each night we start at 7pm. and finish at 8.30pm. More information from Fraser Penny or William Hogg. ____________________________

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 in St. Mary’s on the April 7th and then in Little Dunkeld Kirk on May 5th.

All____________________________ welcome from any church or none.

Faith Explored A more informal, relaxed type of worship started last year, monthly on a Wednesday evening. We have decided to move to the last Wednesday of each month and to meet in the Chanonry.

There is no set format but the evening includes some worship songs, an open discussion around tables about a Bible passage, and ends with prayer (and a cup of tea/coffee at some point!).

While the aim is to be suitable for younger adults and those exploring faith, everyone is welcome. If you think this is something you might be interested in please come along and give it a try. In March we will meet on the 27th. at 7.30 in the Chanonry. ____________________________

Kirk Session The next regular meeting of the Kirk Session is on April 23rd. at 7.30pm. in the Duchess Anne. ____________________________

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

Fellowship Group – ‘Exploring faith and life together’ Two Fellowship groups meet fortnightly on Wednesday mornings (10.30) and Tuesday evenings (7pm) The dates for after Easter haven’t been finalised yet but will be announced in church notice sheets.

While the groups meet in person in the Chanonry it is always possible to join by zoom with these codes: Meeting ID: 898 7502 8047 Passcode: 809745 All are welcome and for more information available from John Ferguson (727585), William Hogg (727053) or Fraser Penny (727249) ____________________________

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

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

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 ____________________________

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 in Little Dunkeld Kirk on April 7th.

All welcome from any church or none.

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in the Commun s e h c r u h C e it y hre

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 e-mail: to be confirmed

Covenant Officer: Mrs. Ann Bryce Tomnagrew House, Dunkeld PH80BX Tel: 01350 723228 e-mail: j.bryce@farmline.com

Organist & Choir Leader: Mrs Hazel Murch Tel: 07867 642954 e-mail: hazel.murch@gmail.com

Parish Office: Mrs Jill McCrory The Chanonry, 07808 703641 email: chanonrydunkeld@gmail.com www.dunkeldcathedral.org.uk

____________________________ St Mary's Episcopal Church, Birnam Sunday Service 10 am - Holy Communion with hymns, music and sermon, followed by refreshments.

Church Services and Contacts: 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 Christmas Services:Christmas Eve – St Bride’s Pitlochry: 8.00 pm Carols, 8.30 pm Vigil Mass Christmas Day – 8.30 am St Columba’s Birnam 10.00 am Our Lady of Mercy, Aberfeldy 11.30 am St Brides, Pitlochry.

The church is open daily for visitors, and prayers are said at 5.30pm on Fridays and 9.30am on Saturday.

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

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.

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.

Four reasons for debt and how we can tackle them Everything is so expensive these days, so it’s easy for many of us to find ourselves in unmanageable debt.

By recognising the causes of debt, we can gain a better understanding of the problem, prevent it and deal with it.

Low incomes At Christians Against Poverty (CAP) we offer free, face-to-face debt advice and budgeting help. One of the main reasons our clients fall into debt is living on a low income. A lower regular income means less wiggle room to cope with rising costs.

We often don’t realise what benefit support we could be entitled to. The free Turn2us benefits calculator on CAP’s website at capscotland.org/calculator is helping thousands of people to see if they are missing out on any vital income. Why not give it a try?

Unexpected circumstances We’ve all had days where it feels like everything is going wrong and unexpected circumstances can have a massive impact on our finances. It could be that you’ve been made redundant, are going through a relationship breakdown, or a loved one has passed away, resulting in less household income. These types of situations can cause us both emotional and financial pain.

If you find yourself in debt that’s unmanageable, the moneyhelper.org.uk website has a range of free support and you can find out what free services CAP is running in your local area at capuk.org/help.

Physical and mental health struggles Many of us will have heard the phrase ‘health is wealth’, meaning your health is always the most important thing. I think most of us would agree this is true. It’s also true that long-term illnesses or injuries that happen to us or a close family member can have a huge impact on our household's finances.

Being kind to yourself, seeking professional, medical help early and readjusting your budget as quickly as you can following any changes to your regular income can be really helpful. This will give you a clearer picture of where your finances are at and help you make productive decisions.

In need of budgeting support Budgeting and learning to save are essential life skills, but many of us have never been taught how to manage our finances and avoid debt. When things go wrong, not having this vital knowledge can make it a lot harder to deal with situations that impact our income.

Building up a savings buffer of around three to six months of your monthly income can bring you peace of mind. Even if you think you know how to budget and save, it’s always great to learn new skills. Consider taking part in free money coaching to grow your knowledge. You can access free budgeting resources and find out more at capscotland.org/budgeting.

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 education and more. Visit capscotland.org to find out more. ____________________________

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The Bridge wishes all our readers a very Happy Easter See church pages for details of Easter Services

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The Royal School of Dunkeld – at the heart of our community As we move through early Easter holidays and towards the summer term school life continues in full swing. As ever we’re on the lookout for areas and activities where we can engage with the wider community. As an example, parents recently held a Pub Quiz to raise funds to start a Lego Club. The night was a huge success, a great time was had by all and we raised £335! Thanks to Quizmaster Kapil Handa for making it a really fun night. There have been many requests to make it a more regular event so watch this space. Huge thanks go to the Royal British Legion for hosting, a great venue. Huge thanks are also due to parents and local businesses for donating and sourcing prizes: Suzi Falconer, Julie Brady, Katie Miles, Aran Bakery, Redwood Wines, and The Taybank. Related, a huge thanks to those who have donated Lego to the school – we’re still looking for more, with the intention of having a box available in each of the classes. If you’d be willing to donate to the school, please pop it into the school office.

On 8 February 2024 the Parent Partnership Group (PPG) of the school discussed the news that Birnam Library could be under threat. As a result the chair of the PPG wrote to Perth and Kinross Councillors, and board members of Culture Perth and Kinross to convey the PPG support for the library as an integral part in the lives of so many – and to outline willingness to be involved with any collaborative conversations for a positive way forward.

Finally, it is great to see work commencing to replace the Zebra Crossing with traffic lights (a so-called toucan crossing). One of the themes of the annual community walking meeting this year was Safe Routes to Schools - this change will make things safer for children and adults alike making their way to and from school, including to the highly utilised MUGA. Thanks to all who have campaigned for this change over the past few years, and to PKC for listening.

As well as through our articles in The Bridge, you can keep up to date with lots of school and community activity through regular newsletters at the Royal School of Dunkeld website https://www.royaldunkeld.pkc.sch.uk/News/Newsletters/.

Nicola Williams, Headteacher, Royal School of Dunkeld Graeme Cook, Chair, Parent Partnership Group

April ‘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 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 Sports 07970 778525 Sally Robertson Leisure Hub dbsportsleisurehub@gmail.com Dunkeld & Birnam Tennis Club 07731 631563 Morna Mitchell mornaamitchell59@gmail.com Glendelvine/Spittalfield Cricket Club 07816 982140 Andrew Ross (all ages) Grass Track & Field Group 07736 724113 James Jarvis Highland Perthshire Clay Shooting Club 07821940252 Ted Carr tedcarr@waitrose.com Leisure Group (Sports Hall Project) 727361 Alasdair Wylie awylie2002@yahoo.co.uk Over 35’s Rugby 07738 006738 Iain Gordon iainhg@aol.com Running Club (8 – 12 year old,) 07761 673231 Adrian Davis (Mondays at 3.30pm) wildoutdoorscotland@gmail.com Swimming & Alexander Technique 07778 778007 Jan Osband jmosband@gmail.com Tai Chi 07551 029076 John Connelly dachutaichi@gmail.com Tayside Orienteers 727048 Bill Melville billmelville@ogoroad.com Yoga 728783 Sue Atkinson atkinsue93@yahoo.co.uk Music & Arts BIPS 07872 505516 Melanie Brockway mbroc02@hotmail.com Birnam Arts 727674 Manager admin@birnamarts.com arts@birnamarts.com Birnam Arts Ballet (Mon – Thurs, Emma Gray age 4 upwards & adults) ballet@birnamarts.com Cathedral Tower Bell Ringers 742218 Iona Connor lowesfarm@hotmail.com Dunkeld Strathspey & Reel Society 07531 520476 Duncan Thomson duncanwthomson@yahoo.co.uk Film Society 727740 Tom Barnard tom_barnard@btinternet.com Just Singin’, 7.30pm Weds (BA) 07765 405203 Katie Dalgliesh www.justsingin.co.uk 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 Caputh Baby & Toddler Group 07722 183546 Catherine Thomson (Tues, 9.30 – 11.30am) Nursery at Royal School of Dunkeld 01738 454470 Royal School of Dunkeld Sunday School – Church of Scotland 727249 Fraser Penny For Younger People Girlguiding Dunkeld (Rainbows, 07770 324173 Trix Stephen Brownies, Guides, Rangers) (District Commissioner) 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)

15

Local Organisations - Continued

Hall Bookings Amulree Village Hall

07749 914906 Isabel Brady northamulree@btinternet.com 727674 Manager 07832 235607 Lorna Lyle 07808 703641 Jill McCrory chanonrydunkeld@gmail.com 07746 392268 Anne Cameron annedunkeld@gmail.com 07808 703641 Jill McCrory chanonrydunkeld@gmail.com

Birnam Arts Caputh Hall Chanonry Dalguise Village Hall Duchess Anne Health Community & Services Birnam Library (Thu 5 – 7pm, Fri 12 – 5pm, Sat 9.30am – 12 noon) Chemist (Dunkeld) Chemist (on Sunday) Doctors Dunkeld & Birnam Community Council Infinity Blu Dental Care(Birnam & Pitlochry) PKC Environmental Services PKC Roads Dept Registrar Tayside Police (non-emergency)

01738 459709 Margaret Quigley birnamlibrary@culturepk.org.uk 727210 Davidsons 01738 494610 Asda, Dunkeld Rd, Perth 727269 Craigvinean Surgery Lachlan MacEwan dbcc.chair@gmail.com 729198 / 01796 470001 01738 476476 01738 475000 01738 475121 3/5 High St, Perth perth-registrars@pkc.gov.uk 101

Dates for your Diary BA = Birnam Arts Centre, DA = Duchess Anne Hall, The Cross, Dunkeld April Continuing until 21st April Exhibition until April 21st Esther Kent ‘Play’ 3 Beatrix Potter Storytelling, 11am: by John Anderson, especially for the younger children 6 Cats Storytelling, 2.30pm: Birnam Arts 4-6 Birnam Institute Players present Old Dogs by Steve Raw 7pm Tickets: £10 Adults £5 U16s (+£1 Booking Fee) Birnam Arts 7 Service Help and Healing St Marys Church 8 Repair Café - Arts Studio Birnam Arts dbrepaircafe@gmail.com 10 Gardeners and Growers. Talk by John Mattingley, Cluny Gardens, Trees/Seed Collection Birnam Arts 7pm acox325@gmail.com 12 Community Orchard Cuppa and Cake 2pm at the Orchard BYO flask and chair dunkeldbirnamorchard@gmail.com 12 Autumn Voices 7.30pm £5 Adult/£3 over 60s (+ £1 Booking Fee) Birnam Arts 14 Paths and Nature Action Group Loch of the Lowes path clearance stewartpritchard@aol.com 20 Neon Waltz 7.30pm Tickets £12 (+ £1 Booking Fee) Birnam Arts 21 Tayside Woodland Group Walk 1pm Black Spout Car Park lenseal210@gmail.com 23 Kirk Session 7:30pm Duchess Anne 27 Loch of the Lowes “open day” celebrate 60 years of the Scottish Wildlife Trust free admission 27 (from 3pm at Birnam Arts) – School Reunion of Class 1940’s, 50’ and 60’s – Tickets available at birnamarts.com 27 Just Singin’ workshop with Alice Marra, Methodist Church Perth, £15 carole.a.reid@hotmail.co.uk 27 Paths and Nature Action Group Loch of the Lowes path clearance stewartpritchard@aol.com 28 The Tommy Smith Youth Jazz Orchestra, 2pm Tickets: £12 Adults / £5 18-25/Students / + Booking Fee/ Free Under 16s May 4-5 10am to 5pm – Dunkeld Living History Weekend in Stanley Hill Park – Free Event – See our web site for more information.

3 8pm in Birnam Arts – “Dunkeld’s Dark Deeds“ performed by Lindsey Gibb at Birnam Arts – Tickets available from birnamarts.com 4 8pm in Birnam Arts – Daniel Downie: A Historical & Hysterical journey through Scottish History – Tickets available from birnamarts.com 5 Service Help and Healing St Marys Church 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.

10 Gardeners and Growers Club Falkland Gardens Visit acox325@gmail.com 11 Viking Optics day 10.30am to 3.00pm. Loch of the Lowes lochofthelowes@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk 17-18 James V: Katherine 19:30 - 21:30 Birnam Arts June 12 Gardeners and Growers Club Bradystone, Murthly.

Propagation Workshop, Garden tour. acox325@gmail.com July 28

Gardeners and Growers Club Montrave, Fife Visit – acox325@gmail.com 30 - end August Dunkeld Cathedral Art Exhibition www.dunkeldartexhibition.com August 17 Gardeners and Growers Club Annual Show, Birnam Arts acox325@gmail.com

For dates further ahead see: www.dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk

Community Noticeboard

16 Dunkeld Guide Hall

Daisy Brake

Birnam Library Opening hours: Thursday: 5pm – 7pm Friday: 12pm – 5pm Saturday: 9.30am – 12pm Birnam Library is situated in the Birnam Arts Centre, Station Road, Birnam, PH8 0DS Tel : 01738 459709

New! From 1st April Health and Wellbeing Hub at the Guide Hall The Community Coworking Space in partnership with Growbiz and the Guides is starting a new Health and Wellbeing Hub at the Guide Hall.

If you work in area of health and wellbeing and have your own personal insurance cover for your activity (public liability is covered) you can rent the Guide Hall for £10 per hour to undertake treatments or classes.

For more information and to book space contact coworkingdunkeld@gmail.com Community Coworking Space working in partnership with____________________________ Growbiz and The Guides.

The Meeting Place THE MEETING PLACE is open every Friday in the Duchess Anne from 10-12.

On Friday 26th April the coffee morning will be in aid of Dunkeld and Birnam in Bloom, and we will have a Cake and Candy stall.

Come and join us for a welcome cup of tea/coffee, delicious home baking and good company. ____________________________

Repair Café – First Monday of the Month The Next Repair Cafe is on Monday 1st April, 3.00pm to 6.00pm Birnam Arts.

If one of your New Year resolutions is to get down to mending those things that need fixing then why not bring them along to see if we can help. Or maybe just pop in, have a cuppa and see what we do. You'll be very welcome. ____________________________

On 17th March Daisy Brake from Dunkeld met with MSPs, including Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf, in the Scottish Parliament today to challenge expectations of what deaf children can achieve and call for urgent investment in the life transforming therapy which supported them to have the same opportunities as their hearing peers.

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

“I can speak like my hearing friends and do anything they can. I’m currently preparing for my National 5s and want to go to university. But this isn’t the case for all deaf children and that isn’t fair. I hope that by speaking to MSPs today they can see why we need to raise expectations for deaf children and young people and why investment is needed now.”

Daisy’s visit to the parliament highlights the issues faced by far too many deaf children in Scotland who still don't have access to the early and effective support to develop language and communication needed to thrive in life.

This means they face the prospect of lower academic achievement, lower employment prospects, and a higher risk of poor mental health, bullying and social exclusion.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. When young deaf children and their families have access to effective, early support, whether their families wish to use spoken language, sign language or both, their opportunities in life can be transformed. And for those families who want their deaf child to learn to listen and speak, the specialist programme of Auditory Verbal therapy is enabling them to get an equal start at school. Urgent action is needed to increase access to Auditory Verbal for families of deaf children across Scotland.

For____________________________ more information visit www.avuk.org

Wanted – Garden Tools Do you have any garden tools that are languishing unused in your shed and surplus to requirements? I could potentially use these and would be happy to make a small payment or donation to charity in return. I am keen to reuse items rather than buy new ones. Items that would be useful include garden forks, rakes, edging shears, hoes and hand tools etc. Please contact Mel Nicoll 07876 118625. ____________________________

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

Spring into Fashion After the Easter Holidays, the 3 Churches’ Charity Shop will be displaying their light weight clothing preparing everyone for the anticipated warmer, sunnier weather.

Why not pop in to the shop and get something fresh for the Spring and Summer.

OUT with the dark, thick clothing IN with the bright, light weight apparel.

Ladies and Gents, why not treat yourselves?

For more information please see our article on the middle ‘church pages’ ____________________________

Three Churches Charity Shop

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Find us on Facebook at 3 Churches Charity Shop

Contact the Advertising Manager adverts@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk 07967 117149

Advanced Booking recommended

Notes from a Councillor

17

As I sit down to write this month’s Councillor article, there is a feeling of Spring in the air, the increase in daylight is also most welcome.

Perth & Kinross Council have submitted their National Park bid to the Scottish Government on 29th February. There has been much conversation surrounding the bid since the intention to submit one was announced earlier in 2023 As the deadline for submission approached there was much media coverage surrounding the wider National Park conversation and location of other expected bids. A Ministerial visit is imminently expected as part of the evaluation process of the bid by the Scottish Government.

There is currently much buzz around the Council offices as the long-awaited opening of the new Perth Museum is imminent. Much time, energy and enthusiasm has gone into the creation of Perth & Kinross’s latest culture offering by the talented team tasked with the delivery of it. The opening signals a positive change for the centre of Perth. There is so much of Perth & Kinross’s history to be told to a wider audience.

Viewing the permanent galleries is free, however, to view The Stone of Destiny this requires a timed ticket. The temporary exhibition, The Unicorn, to view requires a paid ticket.

Dunkeld and Birnam residents will feel relieved by the recent recommendation by Planning officers to refuse the application for an extension to the Erigmore Caravan Site, Councillors Laing, James and I were inundated with emails of concern when the application was proposed.

Planning legislation is complex. Evaluating applications has many layers and it is essential that the many consultees’ recommendations are considered within the legal framework of the system. However, the applicant does have a right to appeal the recommendation.

Councillor Bailie Claire McLaren

News from our Community Council Dunkeld & Birnam Community Council Community Council Matters Community Council Member Lachlan MacEwan

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

We have been very busy with lots of the community concerns and have been dealing with numerous issues please keep an eye on our Facebook page where we have been keeping the community updated. Its the best way to keep everyone updated as soon as we possibly can. We had David Littlejohn from PKC at our last community council meeting answering pre determined questions relating to planing and was able to answer some questions from the floor.We would like to thank David Littlejohn for his time and will keep in touch with him as there are a lot of planning concerns in the Dunkeld and Birnam community council area. We at the moment are working very hard to resolve concerns and I would like to thank our small team for there support and guidance even when on holiday well above the call of duty. We have 3 spaces for co-opting persons on to the community council . Please keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates.

Regards, Lachlan MacEwan

JOHN SWINNEY, MSP for PERTHSHIRE NORTH can be contacted at: 17-19 LESLIE STREET, BLAIRGOWRIE Tel: 01250 876576 SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, EDINBURGH EH99 1SP Tel: 0131 348 5717 e-mail: john.swinney.msp@parliament.scot

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Pete Wishart MP: Member of Parliament for Perth and North Perthshire pete.wishart.mp@parliament.uk Perth Office: 63 Glasgow Road, Perth, PH2 0PE. Tel: 01738 639598 North Perthshire Office: 17-19 Leslie St, Blairgowrie, PH2 6AH Tel: 01250 876 576

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

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

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

A World Community

18

exercise. It’s a great place to meet other members of our community.

We look forward to meeting you. ____________________________

Loch of the Lowes, Dunkeld, PH8 0HH Tel: 01350 727 337 Email: lochofthelowes@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk The visitor centre is open 10:30am to 5.00pm every day.

For any events of the Scottish Wildlife Trust see and book if required https://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/thingsto-do/wildlife-events/

____________________________ Repair Cafe Mending Workshops

Scottish Wildlife Trust Gardening and Growing Club – Join us for the new gardening year!

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 runs from April – March (please don’t be put off by the cost – just drop us a line and we can sort something out).

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 April 10 Speaker: John Mattingley, Cluny Gardens, Trees/Seed Collection Birnam Arts 7:00pm May 10th: Falkland Gardens Visit June 12th Bradystone, Murthly. Propagation Workshop, Garden tour.

July 28th Montrave, Fife Visit: Growing giant vegetables for show and walled garden.

August 17th Annual Show: Birnam Arts November Wreath Making: Birnam Arts For more information and for membership enquiries either come along to a meeting or contact the secretary Andrea Cox acox325@gmail.com

____________________________ Dunkeld & Birnam Community Orchard

Over the last month we have made great progress with the winter pruning of the apples and pears and soft fruit.

A few old tree stumps have also been removed successfully. A great team effort has seen some major work clearing up the soft fruit cage and we are now be reinforcing the rabbit netting and feeding the bushes so that we hopefully get a good crop of raspberries, blackcurrants, redcurrants, blueberries, gooseberries and brambles this summer. Other work on our list includes some work on the plum trees which are outgrowing their space. Huge thanks to everyone who has helped out over the recent weeks.

In April we plan to take a breather and enjoy the signs of spring over a cuppa and cake. Please join us on Friday 12 April at 2pm. Wrap up warm and bring your own flask and outdoor chair! Anyone who would like to find out more about getting involved please come along then if you can or get in touch via email/telephone. Contact Katharine Melville, Joint Co-ordinator on 01350 727048 or dunkeldbirnamorchard@gmail.com The Orchard Group is open to everyone and includes younger and older members of our community. We have a What’s App group which you can join as well as email list. We have some fixed “work” sessions but you can also go down on your own or link up with others in the group on an ad hoc basis to fit in with your work or weekly schedule. You don’t need to know about fruit trees/horticulture, there’s no need for regular commitment and we can help you to find a task that isn’t physically-demanding if you can only manage gentle

Think or imagine back to 1964. You possibly drove a Ford Cortina and watched television in glorious black and white, if you had a TV at all; wireless was still king and was the best way to hear the news that would make it to the newspapers only in a couple of days. News was also very "local", and you probably never heard about the group of individuals who banded together to form a new organisation focusing on Scotland's wildlife. That organisation was the Scottish Wildlife Trust, and 60 years on we are celebrating what in human terms would be a diamond anniversary.

The world is a different place now, compared with 1964, and the wildlife around us is facing many more challenges. There have been success stories; beavers can be seen across many parts of Scotland now, including Loch of the Lowes, where with knowledge and understanding they can find their valued place again.

Red Squirrel numbers continued to decrease with the advancement of the grey squirrels but with our joint action we can see them daily at Lowes. The red squirrel’s predator which is also its lifeline, the Pine Marten, is again welcome. The Scottish Wildlife Trust maintains the same beliefs, safeguarding all of Scotland's wildlife.

SWT now consider the bigger picture of biodiversity and the human impact on the natural world. Of course in an ideal world they could thrive across any part of Scotland, but 60 years has seen an industrialisation of our landscape and this has given nature reserves an even more important role in the ecosystem.

____________________________ Loch of the Lowes

Loch of the Lowes “open day” on Saturday 27th April in order to celebrate 60 years of the Scottish Wildlife Trust this year; it was set up in April 1964. This will be free admission with a look back at the 1960s with some games for children and a chance to chat about people’s experiences of the Scottish Wildlife Trust and Loch of the Lowes over the years.

Viking Optics day on 11th May 10.30am to 3.00pm.

Come to Loch of the Lowes to see binoculars, monoculars and telescopes. Contact Loch of the Lowes as soon as possible if you would like a demonstration of a specific Viking product.

Many thanks to our three instructors at our Garden Tool Maintenance Workshop. It was a big success. If there is more demand we might be able to repeat. Let us know.

I think the people who came along enjoyed it too and found it useful.

Keep an eye out for the clothes mending workshop on APRIL 27th at BA. Look out for the evenbrite booking link on local Facebook and Next Door to book.

Next Repair Cafe – Monday 8th April Venue – Birnam Arts in the Arts Studio This service by volunteers is free. Only cost might be for spare parts. Donations also 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.

Contact for queries dbrepaircafe@gmail.com

____________________________

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Contact the Advertising Manager adverts@dunkeldandbirnamnews.co.uk 07967 117149

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PAINTING & DECORATING Interior / Exterior Work Paper Hanging • Taping Phone Sandy Carr Bankfoot 01738 787547 Mobile: 07818 254520

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ATHOLL STREET 01350 727556 Proprietor: Alasdair Wylie

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