Blairgowrie & Rattray
Hub Magazine Easter 2016 Sponsored by Rosemount Travel Your personal travel designer based in Blairgowrie
Image of “Davie Park Pond� kindly provided by local artist Trevor Taylor
5 minute interview with Bradley Neil
In this edition: Community Football Club
One Voice
Useful Numbers
Update from the Community Council The Ericht Trust Statement
Lots of updates for Groups in the town
Discover Blairgowrie www.discoverblairgowrie.co.uk
Discover Blairgowrie Magazine
Easter 2016
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Welcome to the Easter 2016 Magazine! How time flies, here we are in March already with Easter on the horizon and the hope of Spring, longer days and some sunshine! We hope you enjoy this Easter edition of the magazine - we decided to delay the publication of the magazine so it ties in with Easter this year. We do hope that you got involved with the recent Charrette activity and had the opportunity to help shape how Blairgowrie & Rattray develops. It was an interesting way to look at things and should actually give an idea of what the majority would like to see. We just need to take this and move forward as best we can. Another big shout out to our advertisers who have made this magazine the biggest earner so far! Once the creation and printing costs are paid, the remaining profit goes back into One Voice to help support Discover Blairgowrie and promote the town. The next edition sees Stagecoach take over as the annual sponsor and we are delighted to attract businesses from further afield and thank Pauline at Rosemount Travel for her sponsorship over the past year. We value your support and appreciate comments and suggestions on the magazine so please feel free to let us know what you think - the magazine is created by the community for the communtiy. If you would like to include your community club/organisation’s information, please pop into the One Voice office on Upper Mill Street or email: admin@discoverblairgowrie.co.uk
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Magazine Created by: Graphite Web Solutions, 11 Brown Street, Blairgowrie (0800 988 5521) www.graphitewebsolutions.com, steve@graphitewebsolutions.com Printed via: The Copy Shop, 18 Reform Street, Blairgowrie (01250 873 591) Thank you to all One Voice Volunteers for article/advertisement collection and magazine delivery: One Voice Volunteer Group, 13 Upper Mill Street, Blairgowrie (01250 871 120) Magazine articles are the responsibility of the article owner, The Hub Magazine accepts no responsibility for the content. 3
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What’s On Calendar for Blairgowrie & Rattray This is taken directly from Discover Blairgowrie website www.discoverblairgowrie.co.uk March: 18 Mar 20 Mar 21 Mar 25 Mar 29 Mar 30 Mar
Evening/night kayak touring trip Clunie Loch by Blairgowrie Strathmore Screen Alvin & the Chipmunks 4pm then Dad’s Army 7pm Town Hall Rattray SWI Mar Mtg 7/7.15pm Rattray Hall, Balmoral Road Blair & Rattray Time Bank 10am - 11.30am Community Connect Rattray Blairgowrie and District Hillwalking Club AGM 7pm The Royal Hotel Strathmore Dementia Information Cafe 10am-12pm St Catharine’s, George St, Blairgowrie Civic Trust Meeting 7.30pm Adult Resource Centre, Jessie Street, Blairgowrie Craft n Craic 7pm - 9pm St Catharines Hall
April: 2 Apr 3 Apr 5 Apr 6 Apr 8 Apr 13 Apr 14 Apr 18 Apr 24 Apr 27 Apr 29 Apr 30 Apr
Ericht Scottish Country Dance Class April Dance 7.30pm - 11pm Blairgowrie Town Hall Blairgowrie and District Hillwalking Club Walk - Glen Ey Walks Buddies @ Blair MS Support Group April 10.30am - 12pm Cargills Restaurant & Bistro Blethers Group 10am - 12pm The Royal Hotel Trefoil Guild Meeting 7.30pm St Catharine’s Community Centre Blair & Rattray Time Bank 10am - 11.30am SCYD, Wellmeadow House Drimmieburn & Meikleour WRI St Catharines Centre, George Street, Blairgowrie Blairgowrie & Rattray Community Council Meeting 7pm ARC, Jessie Street, Blairgowrie Rattray SWRI Mtg 7.15pm Rattray Hall, Balmoral Road Blairgowrie and District Hillwalking Club - Glen Dochart Walks Civic Trust Meeting 7.30pm Adult Resource Centre, Jessie Street, Blairgowrie Craft n Craic April 7pm - 9pm St Catharines Hall Blair & Rattray Time Bank 10am - 11.30am Community Connect Rattray ABC Spring Craft Fair 10am - 5pm Blairgowrie Town Hall
May: 3 May Buddies @ Blair MS Support Group May 10.30am - 12pm Cargills Restaurant & Bistro 4 May Blethers Group 10am - 12pm The Royal Hotel Trefoil Guild - AGM & Pot Luck Supper 7.30pm St Catharine’s Community Centre 11 May Drimmieburn & Meikleour WRI St Catharines Centre, George Street, Blairgowrie 12 May Blairgowrie & Rattray Community Council Meeting & AGM 7pm ARC, Jessie Street 13 May Ericht Scottish Country Dance Class Dance 7.30pm - 11pm Blairgowrie Town Hall 16 May Rattray SWI Mtg 7/7.15pm Rattray Hall, Balmoral Road 19 May Blairgowrie & Rattray Forum Mtg 5.30pm Venue TBC 28 - 29 May Ericht Art Club Annual Exhibition 10am till 5pm both days, free entry Town Hall June: 1 June 7 June 9 June
Blethers Group 10am - 12pm The Royal Hotel Buddies @ Blair MS Support Group June 10.30am - 12pm Cargills Restaurant & Bistro Blairgowrie & Rattray Community Council Meeting 7pm Rattray Connect, Rattray
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Blairgowrie & Rattray - Your Town in Your Hands “The extensive exercise of talking to as many individuals, groups, businesses and others to get their views on how to develop Blairgowrie and Rattray to maximise its potential and be the best it can be, is now complete. The results of these many conversations are being complied by our consultants and we look forward to what you’ve all had to say. We look forward to receiving the recommendations and what actions are needed to be taken, and by whom, to deliver on some of the identified areas were improvements to the town can be made. The outcome of the study will be published in the next edition of the Hub magazine.
Table 35 This was the number of the table at Crieff Hydro used by One Voice and invited guests at the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Business Star Awards event. The Table included members of One Voice, representatives from the Discover Blairgowrie team and members of the Community Council along with some partners. There were something like 400 attendees and the One Voice table was amongst illustrious company. Surrounding tables included organisations such as Stagecoach, Vector Aerospace (a well known international company), Merlin (an international company working with many clients in the oil extraction industry). One Voice Volunteer Group had been invited to attend after having gone through the pre-nomination process which included interviews between the Star Awards Team and One Voice management staff and scrutiny of their operations. This culminated in full nomination for the ‘Commitment to the Community’ Award, sponsored by RBS. Their competitors for this award were Horsecross Arts and Perth and Kinross Association of Voluntary Services (PKAVS). Horsecross Arts, in effect Perth Concert Hall and its organisation, said in their introductory film that their activities covered a wide area and over 100,000 people. PKAVS cover a similar wide area involving a lot of people and work hand in glove with PKC. Both of these organisations have paid employees some of whom spend a lot of time promoting their activities and services. So One Voice was really up against it but could be proud of being pitted against such organisations. Eventually One Voice had to accept a runner’s up spot. One of the group who nearly won a prize was Ellen of OV. She got down to the last 5 in the Crusty Tops and Soggy Bottoms competition and thoroughly enjoyed herself in the process. One Voice received lots of commiserations regarding not getting the award but the most heartening point was actually being there amongst all the other finalist nominees with as good chance of winning
SNIPPETS FROM THE BLAIRGOWRIE ADVERTISER MARCH 1916 (Price 1 penny) Local people were being encouraged to help send, “smokes” to the Troops. For every 6 old pence contributed to the general fund 30 good cigarettes and 1 ounce of tobacco would be sent. The package would also include a return address post card so that the receiver could acknowledge. Cigarettes such as, Woodbines, Gold Leaf, Gold Flake, and also Panatela cigars could be included. Local Regiments were said to be very appreciative of the smokes. (The Tobacco fund held £698.14/3pence) 5
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Blairgowrie & Rattray Community Council Officers from PKC have presented the Local Development Plan to the community and what a response they got. You turned out in droves to give your opinion and feedback to them – they were quite overwhelmed! All the information will be collated and help shape the future of our town and will work in conjunction with the Charrette findings. We’re so lucky to have these two events happening at the same time, where one can influence the other. We’re very proud of the amazing job Stuart Nichol has done of organising the charrette and are lucky to have him as part of our team. Well done Stuart!
Christmas has come and gone, New Year too, and we’re rapidly approaching Easter. Where does the time go?! Thank you to everyone who helped with the Christmas festivities, what a colourful town and abundance of happy kiddies we had. Well done Santa! Things in the town are, as ever, moving on. The permanent pedestrian crossings are being installed, the road in front of the Crown Bar is to go back to being a two-way road and, by the time this goes to print, the repairs to the Cuttle Burn and Oakbank Road should be finished. Piggy Lane changing rooms will be open and be being put through their paces, for which huge recognition goes to the unstoppable Sandy Thomson for his dogged determination and persistence in securing not only the units AND the funding but also the services of an architect to have them installed. No mean feat! Well done Mr T. What an amazing legacy you have given the town, thank you.
Now, it’s time to get your thinking caps on. The Blairie will be looking for nominations shortly for our “Citizen of the Year”. Forms will be available from various outlets in the town and no doubt there will be plenty of publicity in the press about what to do and when. We are positively brimming with amazing people who do brilliant things for the town, local clubs and organisations, let’s show them the work they do 6
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the Community Council for all their support over the last year and with whom I hope to continue to serve, until the next round of elections in November. It’s been a wonderful experience and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it.
Lastly, it has been almost a year since I took up the position of Chair, which means it’s nearly time to step aside and make way for someone else to take the reins. In May we have our AGM and I wish all the best to our new Chair and office bearers. I would like to thank Ian Richards, Vice Chair, Pat McGregor, Treasurer, and Nicola Ferry (and Ian Cruickshank), Secretary, and all my companions on
Morag Young Chair, Blairgowrie & Rattray Community Council
BOOKLORE 2016
Dome café)
At the start of 2016 the volunteers at One Voice undertook the huge task of sorting through all of the stock of donated books, on the shop shelves and in the store. The result is refreshed stock on the shelves and a simplified, coded pricing system. We still have the same wide variety of books for sale, but, hopefully, of better quality. There are fewer books on the shop shelves. If the book you are looking for cannot be found, ask one of the volunteers and they will look in the store room to see if it can be located there. Book requests are still put in a dedicated book and checked regularly, so if we cannot find what you require, we will look out for it amongst subsequent donations.
Berry Treasured Memories by James Niven and Irene Geoghegan A Social History of Blairgowrie and Rattray compiled by Margaret Laing Joe’s Cloud an Ither Stuff by Jane Townsley Warmth and Wit by Blairwriters New Lanark --Spinning New Lives by C.A.Hope New Lanark—Living with a Visionary by C.A.Hope Wee Georgie—Growing up in Dundee in the 50’s and 60’s by George Burton How to Train your Owners by Mike Gibb We also have two children’s books in this category:
Look out for the Folio Society edition of War and Peace (a very long read!) as seen recently on BBC TV. Crime fiction is always popular; my favourites are Michael Connelly-The Lincoln Lawyer and many more and the Jack Reacher novels by Lee Child. Amongst Scottish crime fiction writers, Ian Rankin’s Inspector Rebus stories and Peter May’s Hebriddean trilogy are always gripping reads. The old favourite classics by Jane Austen, Thomas Hardy and Charles Dickens are always worth revisiting.
The Big Brown Lazy Dog—words and pictures by John Halvorsen The Tale of Emma Appletree---words and pictures by Rosemary Patterson Photographs One Voice has a large archive of old photographs which can be printed and purchased in the shop. Opening Times and contact details Drop into the shop Tuesday to Saturday between 10 am. and 4 pm. and see what we offer. If you have a query regarding the town and environs or require other information, please pop into the shop at 13 Upper Mill Street, Blairgowrie PH10 6AG or: Email: onevoicevg@btconnect.com
There are monthly offers on certain categories of books. Look out in the Hub Magazine, the shop or the You are Here signs for forthcoming offers. For some time now we have stocked a selection of books by authors who live in or around Blairgowrie and Rattray or who have some connection with the town. Those in stock at the moment include:
Website:
www.discoverblairgowrie.co.uk
Telephone: 01250 871120
A Drop in the Bucket by Stuart Wishart (of The 7
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Position Statement from the Ericht Trust Board February 2016 It is now three months since the Ericht Trust was informed through our lawyer that we were not the preferred bidder for the Old Hill Primary Site in Blairgowrie. Since then the Trust has met on several occasions to consider its position.
reports would have been used to make the lottery application for development costs had we been the preferred bidder. We also had in place the offer of a grant from SSE to buy the building.
To bring you up to date, the site has been offered to Corryard, a developer from Crieff. It is their intention to convert the 3 buildings into residential properties. They are currently surveying the buildings.
To transfer all of this work to another site is not possible. To split it between a number of sites would not be financially viable. The plans worked because the commercial aspects of the development supported the museum and the print works which would not have been profitable in isolation. In considering another site, the Trust would have to commission much of this work again and having received grants for the initial investigations it is unlikely that the various bodies would award a further grant for basically the same work.
Since November Hamilton Scott, who owns the Blairgowrie Printers, has had to consider how to deal with a listed building and valuable print machinery. He is currently in discussion with the Conservation Officer from the Perth and Kinross Council and officers from Historic Environment Scotland to find a solution. They all viewed moving the Blairgowrie Printers to the Old School as the ideal solution but that is no longer an option.
Perth and Kinross Council wrote to our lawyer in November informing him that Corryard was the preferred bidder, but if they failed to proceed within a reasonable timescale, the Ericht Trust would be approached again. No detail of any timescale was given but this will not be an option for the Trust as the offer of the grant to buy the building will have lapsed and all the costs will need to be revised. The print works may also have been sold and the whole business plan would have to be reworked. The Trust would need to raise considerable funds to complete this work again.
The Ericht Trust has been approached on several occasions in the last few weeks about possible alternative sites in the town for our development. We have investigated all of these but to date consider none would be suitable. The Ericht Trust has spent over £60,000 in developing plans for the Old Hill Primary site all of which was raised through grants or donations. We have carried out a full Building Condition Survey, a Bat Survey, a Topographical Survey, a Structural Survey, Mechanical and Engineering Survey, a Measured Survey, Slater’s Roof Survey, a Valuation Survey and an Asbestos Survey. An architect was commissioned to produce detailed drawings, a quantity surveyor produced a full costing plan. Acoustic and Fire Engineers were consulted and a Cinema Consultant was engaged. A business consultant provided a full breakdown of profit and loss over an initial 5-year period and extensive constructive consultations were undertaken with PKC Planning Department and Historic Environment Scotland. In the last 6 months we have employed a funding director, a heritage consultant and a catering consultant. All of these
We, as Trustees are extremely disappointed at the outcome after 4 years work especially as the Community Empowerment Bill, which received Royal Assent in 2015 makes it clear that the Government wish communities to become the dominant voice in local development. To quote “Community Bodies will have the right to buy, lease or manage land and buildings belonging to local authorities. There will be a presumption of agreement to requests unless there are reasonable grounds for refusal” 8
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Easter 2016 We do not think there were reasonable grounds to refuse the bid from the Ericht Trust and we should have been allowed to make the lottery bid. If that had failed the council would still have been in a position to sell the buildings for development. Much needed facilities have been lost to the town and are unlikely to be developed in the near future because PKC focus is entirely on developing more housing with no additional facilities. As the largest town in Perthshire, Blairgowrie is severely lacking any indoor attractions, which is what we were trying to provide. Entertainment and leisure facilities should be an integral part of a cohesive society if the town is to be more than a dormitory town. Some members of the community would like an enquiry into the decision making process, others have talked of a judicial review.
The Ericht Trust would like our three locally elected representatives to establish how the bids were scored on the Criteria for Best Consideration and Best Value sheet, and give reasons why we did not succeed. Why was a community based project judged using a competitive process against a commercial bid? It is in the public interest that these decisions are made openly and transparently if we are to believe in a democratic government. To date all this information has been denied to the Trust, the Press and the Community Council. Myra Shearer Vice Chair info@theerichttrust.co.uk www.theerichttrust.co.uk
SNIPPETS FROM THE BLAIRGOWRIE ADVERTISER MARCH 1916 Soldiers based locally started to put on Military Concerts in Blairgowrie as a thank you for kindnesses shown by the local folks. Those serving in Regiments such as the Black Watch and Gordon Highlanders had willingly entertained. The concerts were said to have been a great success.
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ACG Accounting Services Working with Sole Traders and Small Businesses Based in Alyth, we specialise in Sole Traders, Small Employers and Small Businesses in Blairgowrie and East Perthshire. First consultation is free, so don’t be afraid to give us a call for an informal chat on how we can help. We concentrate on providing a professional and friendly service allowing you to focus on managing and growing your business and doing the work you enjoy, rather than being overwhelmed with administration. Fees are fixed for all our services so there are no surprises and no hidden or set-up costs. We offer a flexible payment plan as an option. A professional, personalised, friendly and confidential service is central to our business approach. 36 Smythe Street, Alyth. Tel: 01828 634140 ; Mobile: 07999694006 Email: enquiries@acgaccountingservices.co.uk www. acgaccountingservices.co.uk 11
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Cardio Haters Workout
and the winner takes it home on Friday. Just imagine how many steps the wonderful posties, Tesco merchandisers and bin operatives take each day. Would you bet you walk further than your workmates?
Some of us may jog and run with the joy of a baby gazelle but others are more circumspect when it comes to public puffing and panting. Regardless of how you feel about it, Cardio is an important part of our fitness which often gets left behind over the winter. Strengthening your heart and lungs reduces your heart rate and normalises blood pressure, improves conditions like Asthma and Type 2 Diabetes and can reduce incidences of some cancers. It also helps elevate mood and strengthens large muscle groups in the body. Fortunately, we have great facilities in Blairgowrie, Alyth and Coupar Angus to help. Here are a few ideas for cramming in your cardio and maintaining your heart and lung fitness without getting on a bus: For the busy parents: Let’s face it, if we can’t get fit chasing kids round Davie or Larghan Park, where can we do it?! How about Hopscotch? 20-30 minutes with your kids will raise the heart rate enough to provide cardio benefits and tire them out. Two for one with some playground nostalgia thrown in for free. For the fair weather friends: Can’t stand the rain? Load up your mobile phone with long lost music / TED talks or audio books and hit the Liveactive, Nortel or Enverdale gyms. You can catch up with all your favourite media interests on the Cross Trainer instead of your sofa. An album is about 40-45 minutes - perfect timing! For the desk bound: Try some friendly competition in the workplace with pedometers and a wall chart. Far be it from me to encourage gambling but I’ve known a Sweepstake for the most steps walked each week to kickstart many fitness regimes! You can take calls while walking round your desk, visit colleagues in other parts of the building, host meetings and calls while walking and meet friends for lunchtime walks. Ask your work colleagues if they’ll put £5 each in to join
For the real cardio haters: try Sprints. A gentle warm up, 3or5 x 30 second fast “sprints” (walking, running, biking etc) with a minute’s rest between. Finish with a cool down and stretch. Try Newton Street in Blairgowrie or Beechhill Road in Coupar Angus for fast walking or running sprints. You can even do cycle sprints at the back of Alyth or swim sprints at the Angus hotel and/or high school pools. I know this sounds like the worst but bear in mind it’s just 10-15 minutes twice a week for a Cardio training effect with the finest Perthshire scenery to keep you distracted. Time it to coincide with your normal shower time so it fits best into your day. For the easily bored: Have a look at the classes available at the Newhill Campus, the Enverdale and the Town Halls. They’re varied and lighthearted. You’ll be able to do a new class fairly regularly and won’t have time to get fed up. Other potentials are squash or racquetball at the Nortel or get a group together for five a side footie at Blairgowrie Liveactive or on the outdoor pitch at Larghan park in Coupar Angus. Discover Blairgowrie and http://www.coupar-angus.org are great sites for keeping up to date with Freelance instructors like Susie Black, Shari Sidley and Fiona Edwards. I’ve probably missed out loads of opportunities on our doorstep but regardless of how you get your Cardio done, it’s a vital part of your fitness regime. Please don’t skimp just because it’s cold outside. For more information on how to make the most of your fitness locally, you can subscribe to my weekly newsletter through www.sblackfitness.co.uk and Enjoy Good Health!
SNIPPETS FROM THE BLAIRGOWRIE ADVERTISER MARCH 1916 Showing in Cinemas at this time was the, “Jockey of Death” which was said to have 4,500 feet of thrills. The advert stated that, “all Cinema goers would want to see this extraordinary picture” 12
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Cllr Caroline Shiers (Scottish Conservative – Blairgowrie & Glens Ward)
thriving community. Further information on all of this can be found on the PKC website at http://www. pkc.gov.uk/mainissuesldp2 Copies are available in the library. I was delighted that a huge number of residents attended the event in the Town Hall in January and there is a further event in February. This is a lengthy process and it is important the public has its say to help shape the future development of the town. As one of the three elected Councillors I will ensure these views are represented at discussions at PKC.
I am looking forward to attending the official opening of the new containers installed at the football pitches at Piggy Lane. These facilities will make a huge difference to the teams who play there. The containers are now in place as a result of hard work and sheer determination of the Blairgowrie and Rattray Community Football Club, practical support from local businesses and individuals and in particular the Chairman Sandy Thomson, who has shown great determination to overcome a number of issues and get the job done. I am sure the teams will benefit from them over the coming seasons.
Finally, a meeting was recently held to look at the issues from the floods and resulting problems which occurred. A variety of measures are being looked at to address the issues identified and hopefully, alleviate problems in the future. With Spring around the corner, Blair in Bloom and Keep Blairgowrie & Rattray Beautiful are working to tackle litter around the town will be busy over coming months and I would really encourage you to get involved.
The issue of sports, community facilities and infrastructure continues to be high on the agenda. As part of the debate on the Main Issues Report for the next Local Development Plan I secured an amendment which means that a full review of the infrastructure of Blairgowrie and Rattray is being undertaken alongside the Charette (which is referred to elsewhere in this magazine). It is essential that any further housing in the area is coupled with development of facilities and roads, healthcare and all of the other requirements for a growing,
As always, I can be contacted on 01828 632608 (h) 01738 553990 (0) or email carolineshiers@ gmail.com Trying to maintain and improve the facility without closing the hall and disrupting regular bookings is difficult. . Regular users have been very cooperative in recent months while renovation of a toilet block has been taking place, this work once again has been done in conjunction with P.K.C. Who have financed 75% of the cost. Another major expense coming up is the varnishing of the main hall floor the cost of which is totally down to B.T.H.A. own finances. It may not be the most striking of buildings on the outside but the committee are striving to ensure that the inside is of a high standard.
The Town Hall, is it still a relevant venue for today? As the committee continue to look for more all-round use for this valuable facility, the answer is yes. This is no more evident than when you see how many larger organizations use it on a regular basis, none more so than the Blood Unit, Strathmore Screen, P.K.C. for elections and public events, Blairgowrie Players, and various dance groups, craft fairs and keep fit classes for all ages. Another large event, which has just ended, was the four-day “Your Town in Your Hands� Charette consultation seminar. The committee are continually looking at different ways to attract a newer and wider audience with some promising looking events in the next three months, keep an eye on local papers and Discover Blairgowrie for details. 14
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DuringyMarch&yweywillybe relocatingytoy45yLeslieyStreet& Blairgowriey1nearytheylibrary2
Mobile:y07469y814y762 Bathing Clippingy9yStyling The Strathmore Advisory Group (SAGr)
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that existing services provided at BCH will be maintained.
SAGr evolved from the Strathmore Focus Group, itself set up in October 2011 to act as a body to ensure good communication between the local public, NHS Tayside & the Community Health Partnership (CHP). Particular emphasis was placed on the re-development & modernisation of the Blairgowrie Community Hospital (BCH) and associated medical services within the catchment area. SAGr has allowed our community to have a voice in these developments.
With the impending integration of NHS Tayside & certain support aspects of Social Services, implementation of the proposed Strategic & Joint Commissioning Plan will introduce significant structural, control and operational changes. These may well effect the way services are currently provided by NHS Tayside and the healthcare support aspects of the local Social Services. With this in mind, SAGr is currently working through a review and update of its agreed Terms of Reference. The intention is to keep the group’s voice relevant to the community, to the BCH & to the Strathmore healthcare and support services. I hope to be able to report on further progress in the next issue of the Hub.
Now that the modernisation of one wing of the BCH has been completed, with the well-received rebuild and up-to-date ward facilities in one half, the future of the other half seems to turning towards the proposed move of the Coupar Angus (Trades Lane) Community Mental Health Team into the wing. This does not exclude other possibilities being investigated. We have been assured
David Bailey Chair, SAGr
SNIPPETS FROM THE BLAIRGOWRIE ADVERTISER MARCH 1916 The dentist at 36 Allan Street was advertising extractions from 1/- and stoppings from 2/- assuring readers that it would be painless. 15
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Cllr Bob Ellis (Scottish National Party – Blairgowrie & Glens Ward)
and I will keep on saying it, drivers please adhere to the 20mph speed limit when approaching the town centre.
Well done to Steve and all of those who contribute to this excellent magazine and also to those who deliver it to all of the houses in Blairgowrie & Rattray.
There are still problems at the Perth Street end of Reform Street with drivers not heeding the Give Way sign when turning right. We have now had a site meeting with a senior roads officer and we are looking at a solution to this and I will update you once this has been drawn up, costed and a timescale put on it.
I think it is safe to say that this is one of the wettest winters we have had for a long time. The rain has caused so many problems on our roads, on land and in our rivers. I don’t think that I have ever seen flooding like it since I have been in Blairgowrie.
It really heartens me to see our town’s Charrette gaining momentum. This is being taken forward by our Community Council under the stewardship of Community Councillor Stuart Nicoll and a couple of other Community Councillors. I would most certainly urge everyone in the town to air your views from within the consultation process after all “It is Your Town”.
The Council will get round all of the damaged roads and bridges as soon as they can and I have been reassured of this at a meeting that I had arranged for early February. The long standing problem is that of the bridge at Bleaton Hallett just north of Bridge of Cally and this will be very costly and will take until the autumn to repair. We have seen yet another landslip on Oakbank Road just north of the 2012 landslip. However, work has already started on the repair to both of these plus there will be work done on the Cuttle Burn at the same time. I am very hopeful, weather permitting of course that it will be back to normal by the end of March.
The Charrette will also be looking at our leisure facilities or should I say the lack of up to date ones. We are definitely looking at an all weather pitch at the back of the High School as well as I am aware that monies are to be spent on the Recreation Centre in the not too distant future. Also, well done to Sandy Thomson for all his successful efforts in getting changing facilities down at Piggy Lane.
The long awaited work on the installation of the pedestrian traffic lights in the Wellmeadow has started and again, weather permitting they should be finished by the time this magazine drops through your door. I have said this before
As usual I can be contacted on 01250 873899 or by emailing me at rsellis@pkc.gov.uk
Visiteastperthshire (BEPTA) Tourism is one of our best ways of showing off just what we have in this area of Perthshire and even Scotland. Our membership numbers continue to rise and we have taken on two new Directors both of whom have tremendous skills.
on the 20th and 21st April and we are sharing an area set aside for the whole of Perthshire, 10 stalls in all. Already our appointments diary is filling up, which is obviously great to see. The people/buyers who are coming to this prestige event are coming from all over the world and we will be doing our level best to sell to them what is on offer here in the Blairgowrie & The Glens area.
At the moment, we are concentrating on EXPO16, which is a huge tourism event being held at Ingliston, Edinburgh. We are working in partnership with members on this as well as Glenshee Tourist Association, who have helped to support us with funding. The event is being held
On show at our stall will be our own Berries and 16
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Easter 2016 Cherries Tartan, a plasma screen showing off photographs of things to do and see on a loop. We will also be taking leaflets down and a wicker basket full of local samples from a small kayak paddle to locally made chocolates.
We can be contacted for further information by emailing us at visiteastperthshire@gmail.com or visit our website: visiteastperthshire.com Bob Ellis Chairman
Wellmeadow Café C Fresh Home Baking – Community Café – Everyone Welcome!
Open Tuesday – Friday: 10am – 5pm Saturday: 10am – 3pm Wellmeadow House, Gas Brae, PH10 6AY We are a community social business venture operated by SCYD*. Our café is run by talented, young, local chef Becky Moran. Some of our waiting staff are volunteers. Where possible we use all local produce and ingredients and all our dishes are freshly prepared in-house, including our cakes and specialty ice-creams.
Hope to see you soon! *Strathmore Centre for Youth Development
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A friendly and efficient local firm of solicitors and estate agents Property purchases and sales Wills and executries Family law Powers of Attorney Miller Gerrard, Solicitors & Estate Agents The Studio, 13 High Street Blairgowrie PH10 6ET Telephone 01250 873468 Email mg@millergerrard.co.uk
Website www.millergerrard.com
Graham Edwards Chartered Accountant & Business Advisers
We will provide you with a comprehensive proactive accounting, taxation advice and support service to meet your individual needs. SERVICES AVAILABLE • • • • • • • • • •
Preparation of sole trader and partnership accounts Preparation of monthly management accounts Preparation of limited company accounts Completion of income tax returns Complete income tax and corporation tax service Advice on capital gains tax and inheritance tax planning Preparation of VAT returns Business plans and cash flows Payroll & PAYE Start up advice
1 Perth Street, Blairgowrie, PH10 6DQ www.grahamedwards-ca.co.uk Telephone 01250 873465 18
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PKAVS Carers Hub Complementary Therapies for Unpaid Carers Coming Soon! PKAVS Carers Hub has been granted a pot of money after its successful bid to the Participatory Budgeting fund. The project will provide monthly therapy sessions for Carers in Strathmore. There will be a choice of two different 45 minute therapies on offer including Indian Head Massage or Reflexology. PKAVS is extending its existing services in Strathmore to provide equal opportunities for Carers in the area so that they can access additional support services that will enhance their health and well-being. Carers registered with PKAVS are free to book their therapies and appointments will be on a first come, first serve basis. Therapies are free of charge but we may ask for a small donation on the day. For more information please contact Erman Maglalang on 07935 312345 or email erman.maglalang@ pkavs.org.uk. Details and any updates will also be posted on our website at www.pkavscarershub.org.uk. PKAVS is a registered Scottish Charity (SC 005561) and a company Limited by Guarantee, Registered in Scotland (86065).
IDEAS FOR IMPROVING CHRISTMAS LIGHTS? Blairgowrie and Rattray Illuminations Committee have already held our first meeting of 2016. We are planning how to spend some of the money donated to us over the past year. The upgrade from traditional bulbs to LEDs will continue, but we are seeking specific suggestions from you all on how we might improve your enjoyment of the Festive Season. In addition, we continue to search for someone to volunteer to take over (or share) as Secretary. Ideas or volunteers please contact Keith Reid (874776) or Margaret Wotherspoon (870372). I Want Never Gets
so by asking you’re giving them the chance to do something they like, to feel good because they’re doing something for someone, and to earn some Time Credits for something they want. Do you fancy learning the guitar, or want someone to speak Gaelic or French with? Are you looking for someone to go walking with? Your Timebank might well have someone who can help, but you need to ASK. Timebanks are about WANTS.
How often were you told as a child that ‘I want never gets!’ Well forget your childhood lessons because that’s just not true when it comes to Timebanking. The thing about Timebanking…………… …………. is that it can entirely be about WANT. It isn’t necessarily about NEED, although that does play a part. More often than not members say to us ‘but I don’t need anything’. Well that’s fine – but a Timebank is about giving other people the opportunity to be involved in their community and that’s why people join – because they want to give and be involved. So just forget ‘need’ and concentrate on the WANT. For example, do you hate ironing? Do you want to be free from it? There may well be someone who loves to iron,
So here’s what we want. We want you to use us more, and if you’re not already a member we want you to bring your skills and join and start asking for things. The direction of the Timebank is influenced by the members so if you want to see it go in a particular direction, then tell us and we will work to make that happen. We WANT you to be involved � 19
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You can now join online.
• Fill it out and send and we will get in touch with you.
• Go to www.timebanking.org and in the top right hand corner, click the blue Time and Talents tab and select Alyth Time Team from the drop down list.
Or contact us on 07761233418 or by email bandrtimebank@gmail.com. Drop in and see us on the SECOND Friday of every Month at SCYD, Wellmeadow House,
• Click ‘sign in’ without ticking the admin box.
Gas Brae, Blairgowrie and the LAST Friday of every month at CommunityConnect @Rattray both between 10 and 11.30pm
• On the next screen on the left below our logo is a ‘Become a member’ link. • Click that and you have a screen asking for your information.
The Blethers Group The Blethers Group meet on the 1st Wednesday of every month in the Royal Hotel Blairgowrie, from 10am - 12pm for an informal chat and a cuppa. We are particularly fond of old photoghaphs of long ago Blairgowrie and Rattray - and as you can guess by our name, we are fond of a good natter about the places and people in the photos. In our present form we started up just over 3 years ago. When we lost the collection - some of which had been donated by people who attended at that time - we wondered whether to carry on. However with a lot of hard work a committee and constitution was formed and our collection has been restored, thanks to the generosity of members, and is available at the meetings, or in between times, at the One Voice Office in Upper Mill Street where it is kept. There is no membership fee involved and any photos loaned are copied and the originals returned to the owners. This is to ensure that the collection is preserved for everyone to see. At our February meeting we had 55 members attend, the most ever, and we continue to go from strength to strength. If you think our group would be of interest to you, please come along - we would love to see you.
THOUGHTS (by BL)
Booklore@onevoice 13 Upper Mill Street Blairgowrie PH10 6AG
Winter heartbreak floods and storms, Can it really be the norm?
OFFERS: During March all books on Gardening will be half price. April will see Travel books half price and May will be the turn of History and Hobbies.
Then a glimpse of snowdrops cheers us Makes us smile and gives us hope.
Don’t forget that we have a selection of books by authors with a connection to the local area for sale, as well as photographs from our archive and The Ericht Trust DVD of the Print Works. We will display posters for forthcoming events by local community groups in our window (A4) and in the ‘You are Here ‘ boards in the Wellmeadow, at the Bus Stance and at Rattray (A5 and laminated please).
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The Card Gallery “It’s the Thought that Counts” Huge range of quality cards Ideal gifts for Mother’s Day; Easter or any occasion Unique range of silk, LED potted flowers. Quirky gifts: Glass earring dishes; ceramic Kelpies: The Broons: Best selling adult Ladybird books. Also ‘Itty Bittys’ - the exclusive Star Wars collectibles Be Surprised!
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The 5 Minute Interview - Morag Young Blairgowrie & Rattray Community Council Chair What made you decide to get involved with Blairgowrie and Rattray Community Council? I thought it might be a good way to affect some change in the town. Having moved back after quite a few years away, I was disappointed at the lack of facilities on offer.
Why did you take on the role of Chair of the Council? I had been Vice Chair for the previous year under David Bailey’s watch and after he stepped down it was almost expected that I would take on the role. Although it seemed very daunting never having done anything like this before, David and the group were, and continue to be, very supportive.
I’m pretty sure it is, but is it load’s of work? YES! Loads more than you would expect!
What’s the best thing about being a Community Councillor? Being able to have a positive impact on decisions that affect the town and help move things forward and help out the groups in the town. It’s very rewarding.
What sort of people are on the Council? We all have really a diverse mixture of people on the Council, with wide ranging ages, backgrounds and areas of expertise which I think is a real strength of our group.
What’s been the Council’s greatest achievement so far? I think having the community engage with us on a regular basis has been fantastic and has been a huge achievement. Yes, we’ve managed to open a dialogue with the local council and start to get things done like getting rid of the traffic lights and start a charrette to look at what potential the town has, get the Oakbank Road reopened (shortly) but we regularly have members of the public attend our monthly meeting. They don’t always ask questions of have issues they want to raise, sometimes they just come to listen. I love that.
What’s the biggest challenge for this year? You know I don’t know if I could pin it down to one thing. There have been so many times when I’ve thought that something would be straightforward or has been decided but then it’s not gone that way. It’s been constantly challenging, maybe that’s why I’ve enjoyed it.
When you’re not chairing the CC, what do you love to do to relax? Relax?! Well, being self employed doesn’t give you much time off as it is, but I guess to relax I play XBox or skate. More specifically I play (and coach) roller derby, the Perth team. We’ve had a really busy year getting ready to become a competing team. It’s been very exciting and we’re literally weeks away now from our goal now. I can’t wait!
SNIPPETS FROM THE BLAIRGOWRIE ADVERTISER MARCH 1916 Willie Low the grocer at 35 Allan Street was selling loose tea from 2/- a pound and Darjeeling tea at 2/8. 22
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Local Business Contacts
DENTISTS
This is a list of businesses who support Discover Blairgowrie and are members of the local Business Association. Contact admin@discoverblairgowrie.co.uk if you would like to join.
Blair Dental Care
ACCOUNTANTS/BOOKKEEPERS
DRIVING INSTRUCTORS
ASI Outsourcing
Sue’s Driving School
01250-770100
Gillespie Inverarity & Co Ltd 01250-870718 Graham Edwards Accts
01250-873465
Mark Barron CA
01250-870222
S Climie Office Services
01250-798501
01250-875136
DOG GROOMING Canine Cuts
01250-872040
01250-874831
ESTATE/AGENTS/SOLICITORS Adams Law
01250-874485
Miller Gerrard
01250-873468
FLORISTS
ACTIVITIES/OUTDOOR Julie Baird Pilates
07963-088112
Susie Black Fitness
07914-700988
Something Special Flowers 01250-873237 GARDEN/LANDSCAPES
ARTISTS/CRAFTS
Gardencare & Landscapes
01250-870343
Trevor Taylor
01250-886323
G Croll Landscapes
07949-286026
WarpWeftWeave
07846-486135
BANKS Royal Bank of Scotland
01250-874922
BARBERS/HAIRDRESSERS Just For Gents
07909-115392
01250-872261
CARE HOMES RESIDENTIAL Hope Park
01250-872349
CARPETS Cunningham Carpets
01250-872376
COMPUTERS/INTERNET Microblair
01250-873014
01250-870062
Care Crew
01828-627600
Julie Baird
07963-088112
Susie Black Fitness
07914-700988
The Listening Tree
07922-278766
AACE Fabrics & Foam
07771-367769
HOTELS/ACCOMMODATION/TRAVEL Angus Hotel
01250-872455
Blairgowrie Holiday Park
01250-876666
Rosebank House B&B
01250-872912
Rosemount Travel
01250-874627
Southlittleton Cottages
01250-870611
NURSERYS Cornerstones
CRAFT/FABRIC Aace Fabric & Foam
Blairgowrie Physiotherapy
HOMEWARES
BUILDING/CONSTRUCTION A Proctor Group
HEALTH/COACH/COUNSELLOR
07771-367769 23
01250-876165
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Easter 2016
PEST CONTROL/FIRE/HYGIENE/DAMP PROOF
Cornerstone Deli
01250-798151
Graham Environmental
JAS Crockart & Son
01250-872056
01250-875555
Something Special Flowers 0 1 2 5 0 - 8 7 3 2 3 7
RESTAURANTS/CAFES Cargills Bistro
01250-876735
The Cateran Cafe
01250-870134
The Dalmore Inn
01250-871088
WarpWeftWeave
07846-486135
WM Coupar
01250-872436
TRADESMEN John Oliver Electrician
SHOPS All Things Fair
01250-874238
Blair Copy Shop
01250-873591
Booklore
01250-871120
01250-872600
Alex Robertson Painter/Dec 0 7 5 9 7 - 3 9 4 0 5 7 WEB DESIGN Graphite Web Solutions
01250-873072
Granny Pat’s ‘Fridge’ Soup I make this soup when there are vegetables in the drawer of the fridge which look beyond salvation. My granddaughters call it Granny’s green/yellow or orange soup depending upon the combination of vegetables used. You will need: 2 tablespoons oil
2 cloves of garlic finely chopped
A knob of butter
1 vegetable stockpot or cube
1 large chopped onion
Boiling water to cover
3 sticks of celery, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
A variety of chopped vegetables according to what is left in your fridge: These could include: leeks, carrots, parsnips, tomatoes, peppers, turnips, broccoli, squash. I often use the outside leaves of cauliflower instead of throwing them away. Make sure that you do not use too many parsnips or carrots as the soup will be too sweet. Heat the oil and butter in a large pan over a moderate heat until the butter has melted. Add the onion, celery and garlic and cook for a few minutes until soft, but not coloured. Add the rest of the chopped vegetables, turn down the heat and cover with the lid and cook, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are beginning to cook but not colour. Add the stock pot or cube and enough boiling water to cover generously, sprinkle with salt and pepper and cook until all of the vegetables are soft. Blend the soup with a stick blender or in a liquidiser until smooth or ‘rustic’ in texture depending upon your preference. To serve the soup I sometimes add a dash of double cream or crème fraiche, a sprinkling of parsley too. Garnishes could be added such as crispy bacon, fried onions, or croutons. However you choose to finish it, serve it piping hot with crusty rolls.
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Easter 2016 Useful Phone Numbers
Hosptial Day Room ..................01250 874 466 Adult Resource Centre .............01250 871 910
Blairgowrie Community Hospital
Social Services Day Care ...........01250 877 843
Reception..................................01250 874 466
Freedom Bus Adult Care Services
Strathmore Older People’s mental Health Team
..................................................0845 3011120
..................................................01250 877 843
Care at Home ..........................01738 476 7000
GP Unit ......................................01250 877 854
OTHER UESFUL NUMBERS
District Nurses ...........................01250 872 030
Alzheimer Scotland
Health Visitors ...........................01250 876 668
Dementia Advisor ...................01738 562 358
Blairgowrie Dental Care............. 01250 875 136
Anti-Social Behaviour Team ....01738 476 173
Dundee Dental Hospital ............01382 660 111
Adult Care Area Office..............01250 871 910
Ninewells Main Number ........... 01382 660 111
Blairgowrie Housing Area Office
Perth Royal Infirmary ................01738 623 311
.................................................01738 476 000
Royal Dundee Liff Hospital .......01382 423 000
Homelessness .........................0800 917 0708
NHS 24 .......................................................111
Blairgowrie Library .................01250 871 305
CHEMISTS
Blairgowrie Registration of Births, Deaths &
Boots ........................................01250 872 029
Marriages ................................01250 871 310
Davidsons .................................01250 870 282
Childcare Social Work Office ...01250 871 330
SURGERIES
Child Protection ...................... 01738 476 768
Ardblair Medical Practice ..........01250 872 033
Childcare, Family Info Service ..0845 601 4477
Strathmore Surgery ...................01250 872 552
Building Standards Warrants .. 01738 475 300
VETERINARY SURGERIES
Blairgowrie
Blairgowrie Veterinary Surgery .01250 872 061
Tourist
Information
Centre
..................................................01250 872 960
Thrums Veterinary Group .........01250 871 010
Community Connect, Rattray ....01250 871 538
LEISURE CENTRES
Care at Home ............................01250 871 901
Community Campus ................01250 871 967
Police ..........................................................101
Live Active ................................01250 871 360
Scottish Gas Emergencies ......0800 111 999
SCHOOLS
Scottish Water ...........................0845 6 018 855
Newhill Primary School ...........01250 871 941 St Stephen’s Primary School ....01250 871 950
These numbers are provided for your
Rattray Primary School ............01250 872 389
convenience. If you have any corrections or
Blairgowrie High School ..........01250 871 200
suggestions for additions then please let One
POST OFFICES
Voice know on Upper Mill Street (01250 871
Blairgowrie (in Co-op) .............01250 876 034
120)
Local Delivery Office ...............01250 872 766 ELDERLY ACTIVITIES Health Community Collaborative 25
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INTERVIEW WITH SUSAN O’BRIEN OFFICE MANAGER AT ARDBLAIR MEDICAL PRACTICE 1. Can you tell our readers when the Practice first opened? It was during October 1998, but prior to that we were in Reform Street. 2. What is the Practice catchment area? We cover up to the Spittal of Glenshee, and to the bridge before going into Coupar Angus, also as far as New Alyth, across to Butterstone and to the end of the Beech Hedges.
Our website at www.ardblair.scot.nhs.uk allows patients to access all manner of information and services available. It also includes the facility to request prescriptions as we can no longer accept this request over the phone.
3. What are the current patient numbers? We presently have 7,893, with ages range from 0 to 103 years 4. What are your current staffing levels?
We are obviously aware that not all our patients have a computer or access to one and as always we try our best to answer queries over the telephone or by individuals coming along to speak to us at the surgery.
There are 8 Doctors, 3 Nurses, 1 Health Care Assistant and 12 Admin Staff, working a variation of full and part time. We also share a pharmacist with other relevant bodies. (The Practice is also a training Practice, and we will have an ST1 [a first year Specialist Training doctor training to be a GP] from February for 6 months.)
6. You mentioned that there are appointments missed? Yes, and this is of great concern to ourselves and obviously affects patients trying to make appointments. Over a period of 6 months between June and November last year we had 321 Doctor Appointments missed. Nurse appointments missed over the same period were 479. This included both 20 and 30 minute appointments.
5. Can you give examples of changes the practice has experienced over the years? With the introduction of computers there is obviously far less paperwork, the term we use is, “paper light” We are obviously moving forward all the time aiming to give our patients the best service we can and have regular in house training in order to do this.
7. Is there anything that would be important for us as patients to do?
There is to be a new Text messaging service introduced in approximately 3 months. This we hope will reduce the number of appointments missed. This new system will send a text message to a patient’s mobile phone to remind them of their appointment up to 36 hours before hand. Obviously those who do not have mobile phones will continue as before i.e. a curtesy call being made to remind those who have a longer than normal appointment which can sometimes be made up to 3 weeks in advance.
It would be invaluable for all our patients to keep us informed if they have changed their contact phone number or address. You can understand if those are not correct it may not be possible to address our patient’s needs and this could be crucial in times of emergency. The hub Magazine wishes to thank the Ardblair Medical Practice for agreeing to this interview and to Susan for being so helpful to us. Ardblair Medical Practice Phone number is: 01250 876118 26
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Murdo Fraser MSP In February the Scottish Government released their latest farm income statistics, which provided mixed reading for farmers in East Perthshire. Across the board total income fell by 18% last year which was the second time in succession it has done so. However, fruit growers across the country, many based in the Blairgowrie area, saw their income increase by £40 million, which was good news after a series of disappointing harvests. Despite this slither of hope, farmers across the country have suffered a difficult year which shows little signs of improving in 2016 after the Scottish Government’s botched CAP payments system. With many farmers facing huge financial hardships as a result of the payments disaster, it is time the sector had a Government that truly understood its needs. Historic levels of rainfall have resulted in much of Scotland and in particular, Perth and Kinross, being submerged under water at the start of 2016. Once in 200 year flooding events are happening more frequently and we need to consider more carefully how we respond to this. Ensuring waterways work efficiently and allow excess water to move out to sea quickly is important, as is the construction of strategically placed flood defences and sustainable drainage. Natural flood defences also have a role to play. The planting
of trees is one of the simplest yet most effective methods for helping deal with heavy rainfall. It is disappointing, therefore, that the Scottish Government have failed to meet their target of planting 100 million trees during their time in office. The irony will not be lost on many as trees not only help prevent flooding but also remove harmful carbons from the atmosphere which have been blamed for contributing to extreme weather events. Post emergency disaster relief is also in need of review. The Scottish Government’s response has been ponderous and their failure to distribute money from Westminster quickly has been disappointing. I have used time in Parliament to call for farmers who have been affected with flooded fields to be prioritised when it comes to CAP funding, a commitment that the Government has yet to agree to. Above all lessons must be learnt following extreme weather, if these events are to become more frequent then the Government’s response will also need to improve. Murdo Fraser MSP always welcomes feedback from constituents. He can be contacted at the Control Tower, Perth Airport, Scone, Perth PH2 6PL Tel 01738 553 990 or email atmurdo.fraser.msp@ scottish.parliament.uk
Blairgowrie Stroke Club Had a Stroke? Don’t feel isolated or lonely! Come and join our weekly get-together on Mondays from 10 am – 12 pm at: St Catharine’s Hall, George Street, Blairgowrie We facilitate conversation, play games, organise various activities, and occasionally we invite guest speakers. During the summer, once per month, we go on outings. For example, the March outing is to the Discovery Point in Dundee. Usually we make use of the Freedom Coach for our transport. For more information, please contact: Joyce on 01250 875342, Jacky on 01250 872224 Or email: chssblair@gmail.com We would like to welcome new members and volunteers 27
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A retirement without compromise Coming soon to Blairgowrie Coupar Angus Road, Blairgowrie PH10 6JN Brand new 1 & 2 bed Retirement Living apartments coming soon ■
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Easter 2016
Blairgowrie & District Hillwalking Club Despite the very wet weather The Blairgowrie and District Hillwalking Club have enjoyed lovely weather for their latest walks. On a crisp, sunny, winter’s day 23 members of The Club had a fantastic day out walking from Comrie to Crieff via Glen Lednock and Glen Turret. Starting at Invergeldie in Glen Lednock, one group reached the summit of Ben Chonzie with spectacular views all round. Snow on the summits sharpened visibility and some solitary birds of prey were spotted as well as coveys of grouse. From the summit of this solitary Munro, walkers kept to the summit ridge, skirting Carn Chois before dropping down to the Glen Turret dam and then making their way to the Café of the Famous Grouse Experience. Another group enjoyed walks around Glen Turret admiring the dam and various water features in the Glen before joining the others in the Café. On the hills, the new snow was a joy although, on the descent, most walkers plunged into deep snow or hidden bogs that released some colourful language. For their Christmas Walks in the Killiecrankie/ Pitlochry area twenty seven members of The Blairgowrie and District Hillwalking Club, many with decorated rucksacks, enjoyed a bright, sunny winter day with fresh snow underfoot and great views of the surrounding hills. Starting at Garry Bridge one group crossed the footbridge to follow the east bank of the River Garry and then the shore of Loch Faskally to the boathouse before walking up past the Golf Course to finish at the Moulin Hotel. Also starting at Garry Bridge another group took the Tenandry Loop path which winds round the east side of Craig Fonvuick, climbing steadily up the snowy path to the summit with splendid views across to Ben Vrackie and Ben y Ghlo. After descending to Balrobbie Farm to cross the River Garry near the Soldier’s Leap this group walked down the road to join a marked path leading below Craigower and down the side of the Golf Course to the Moulin Hotel. Two other groups started at the Moulin Hotel and one group took the Bealach Path over the shoulder of Ben Vrackie and descended in quite deep fresh snow to the Pass of Killiecrankie to walk up the road and join the path across the hill to the Moulin Hotel. The other group from Moulin climbed the path past Loch a’ Choire to the summit of Ben Vrackie to enjoy the superb wintry views before descending eastwards to join the Bealach Path and return to the hotel. Once all were gathered in the Moulin soup and mince pies
were enjoyed followed by a quiz, fun and fellowship to round off a good day on the hills. At the end of January a popular walk was on the Fife Coastal Trail from Tayport to Guard Bridge on a calm, dry and partly sunny day between the storms. After refreshing walks along the beach and through the Tentsmuir Forest the Guard Bridge Hotel provided a warm friendly welcome for refreshments and a good blether. The Club also enjoyed a Club Night with a very interesting talk about the Scottish Charity Air Ambulance which was enjoyed by the audience and in January a very enjoyable Quiz Night was held to raise funds to help with transport to walks. To learn more about the Club please visit our web site (www.bdhc.org. uk). The membership covers a wide range of ages and abilities and the variety of destinations and activities reflects this. Our meets cover everything from low level glen walks and coastal walks to scrambling on the Munro ridges and snow gully climbing in winter. Each meet has a variety of suggested walks of different lengths and difficulties to suit all abilities. Prospective members can attend two meets before deciding to join. Visitors will always be welcome at social events and club nights. Why don’t you join us to enjoy the magnificent scenery and wildlife of Scotland and to experience the variety of weather while at the same time becoming fitter! To register for a meet or for information visit the website: www.bdhc.org.uk or phone Bruce Henderson (01334 870866). The programme up to June is: 13 Mar 8.00 am 25 Mar 7.00 pm 03 Apr 8.00 am 24 Apr 8.00 am 15 May 8.00 am 03–05 Jun
Ben Lawers (cars) AGM and Meal Royal Hotel Glen Ey Glen Dochart – Balquidder South Cairngorms Spring Weekend: Onich
Photo: A group on the summit of Ben Chonzie
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Easter 2016
Blairgowrie Rams Junior Rugby Club
keeping fit and learning how to work as a team. For more information please contact Club Secretary, Farah Adams on farah@adams-law.co.uk
Here is an image of 32 Blairgowrie Rams kids and their coaches, who were lucky enough to get tickets for the Scotland V England Rugby International on Saturday 6th February. The image is of our Team getting into voice just before the match. Despite the disappointing result, the Team had a “Grand Day Out” and are looking forward to the Scotland V France match at Murrayfield next month. Let’s hope the Scotland team have got their act together by then. The Rams meet most Sunday mornings at the JJ Coupar playing fields for training and matches with other teams from around Scotland. Both boys and girls aged from 6 to 15 years of age are welcome to come along and give Rugby a TRY!! It is a fun and a safe way of
Outstanding Citizens Wanted
Your Community Council in Association with the Blairgowrie Advertiser is inviting nominations for the 2016 Citizen and Young Person of The Year. Maybe a friend, a colleague or someone you know has made a real difference to our town, a group of people or even an individual. Someone who has acted outwith their normal job, perhaps as a volunteer, and has had a significant impact in helping others within the community. Nomination forms for both awards are available at the Library, One Voice Office, in newsagents and on line on the Community Council website and Facebook Page. Nominations opened on Tuesday 1st March and will close on Thursday 28th April. Completed forms should be handed in at the Library. The Young Person’s award is open to individuals aged 21 years and under. There will be a presentation ceremony at the Community Market on Saturday 25th June at which the winners will be presented with their cups. 30
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David Scott (Blairgowrie) Ltd FUNERAL DIRECTORS AND MONUMENTAL AGENTS 65 HIGH STREET, BLAIRGOWRIE PERTHSHIRE, PH10 6DF Telephone (01250) 876400 Fax (01250) 870064 email: enquiries@dscottfunerals.co.uk
Also at 7 Toutie Street, Alyth, PH11 8BP Tel: (01828) 633433
CANINE CUTS DOG GROOMING AND MICROCHIPPING All ages and breeds welcome Hand stripping, clipping, scissoring, bathing, nail trim, etc 3 High Street, Rattray, Blairgowrie 01250 872040 http://canine-cuts.webeden.co.uk 15% discount with this advert Compulsory microchipping comes in to force from April 2016
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Pete Wishart MSP I want to highlight the availability of free financial help and advice from the independent charity, The Scottish Gas Energy Trust (SGET) as well as Scottish Gas and the StepChange Debt Charity. SGET provides grants to help pay off gas and electricity debts and to purchase energy efficient white goods such as washing machines and fridge/ freezers. Winter can be a financially difficult time for many, so I would strongly encourage anyone worried about their energy bills to get in touch with the Scottish Gas Energy Trust for help and advice. You don’t have to be a Scottish Gas customer to use this helpline and the help given is completely free. Contact the Trust on 01733 421060 or via email on bget@charisgrants.com
The initiative is open to schools across the UK, and the winning projects are chosen in four age categories (4-7, 8-11, 11-16, 17-19). Every school that enters receives a web badge in recognition of their achievements, and the winners are invited to the Houses of Parliament for a prize giving ceremony in Speaker’s House. In addition to the main competition, this year they are also asking for schools to submit blog pieces, ‘top tips’ and images for the website that illustrate what can be achieved when young people work together, and the huge contribution school councils make to their schools and communities. Previous entries have been projects varying from work with the elderly, promoting healthy eating, tackling cyberbullying, being safe at school, raising awareness about medical conditions, disability and mental health issues, and sustainability initiatives.
Scottish Gas also provides direct help for customers, including those who are having difficulty paying their bills, with an interest free debt repayment plan. The company also helps millions of people with energy saving measures and has 1.5m customers registered on a Priority Services Register, which offers additional help for disabled or chronically ill customers and those of pensionable age. For more information please contact Scottish Gas on Freephone 0800 048 0202.
I have no doubt that there are some brilliant ideas out there in East Perthshire schools and any school council in my constituency who wants to take part is welcome contact my office for more details. There is also information online at speakersschoolcouncil.org, and the Speaker’s School Council Awards team can be contacted by phone or email on 0207 219 6260 or via email speakersschoolcouncilawards@parliament.uk
I would like to encourage local schools to consider taking part in The Speaker’s School Council Awards. It is an initiative run by the Parliamentary Education Service, which provides an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the achievements of school councils in bringing about positive change in their school or community.
If any constituents need to contact me, I can be reached at 17-19 Leslie Street, Blairgowrie, PH10 6AH, on 01250 876 576 or at pete.wishart.mp@ parliament.uk
SNIPPETS FROM THE BLAIRGOWRIE ADVERTISER MARCH 1916 There was pressure building for farmers to start employing women in order for eligible male workers to be released to be sent to the “Front.” Many farmers were appealing for their male workers to be exempt. Someone had actually sent a poem to the Blairie against female employment, with one of the lines being:“Picture a fancy goods shop girl sent out to use a rake, she had never noticed one before and how it made her ache.” 32
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BLAIRGOWRIE & RATTRAY & DISTRICT GENEALOGY CENTRE
feature in this article.
At the Genealogy Centre based at Blairgowrie Library, Volunteers are frequently asked to research the Family History of people from this area who emigrated during the 19th century, often to Canada, America, Australia and New Zealand. Their ancestors had bravely endured lengthy, hazardous journeys in harrowing conditions in the hope of finding a better life.
At the Genealogy Centre we receive enquiries from local people and from all corners of the globe. Requests for help with research mostly involve a person’s own family history, but sometimes a request can be more unusual. One such request came from a lady from Glasgow who had purchased a photograph album at an Antiques Fair. The album had belonged to Mary Mitchell (1828-1899), a sister of Thomas Mitchell of Greenfield, Lochy Terrace, after whom Mitchell Square is named. Mary was the second wife of Rev. John Miller, the Minister of Blairgowrie Congregational Church from 1869 to 1878.
In June 1863 in Alyth, Mary Anderson, born 1838 at ‘Shanzie’ Alyth, married Andrew Anderson, born 1837 at Kirriemuir, and on 4th July 1863 they set sail from Gravesend aboard the ‘Lancashire Witch’ bound for New Zealand, arriving in Lyttelton on 13th October 1863. Three men who shared their journey kept diaries and these may be read online at www.rootsweb. ancestry.com/~nzlscant/lancashire_witch.htm
The album contained more than 50 beautiful photos, most of which have now been identified with help from Doug Mitchell, Great-Grandson of Thomas Mitchell, who lives in London, Ontario, Canada and who was able to add a further 50 or so photos from his Grandfather, Thomas Edward Mitchell’s collection. Sandra Goodall, Granddaughter of Thomas Edward, provided family information.
They describe the conditions on board, the route taken, weather conditions, illnesses, deaths and burials at sea. Mary and Andrew Anderson continued to endure hardship after their arrival in New Zealand, but eventually purchased a farm near Leeston which they called ‘Shanzie’. They raised 5 sons and 3 daughters. An Obituary for Mary may be read on the above website. Mary’s older brother William and his wife Ann Smith from Blairgowrie had no doubt endured a similar voyage when they emigrated to Australia in 1854. William’s Great-GreatGrandson Lawrie Anderson of Albany, Western Australia, has given permission for his family to 33
Copies of these photos and some of the history of the Mitchell Family have been filed in looseleaf folders and may be seen at the Library when the Genealogy Centre Volunteers are on duty – Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 2-4 pm
ALWAYS WANTED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOUR FAMILY HISTORY? Genealogy Centre Volunteers at Blairgowrie Library can help Tue 2-4pm Wed 2-4 pm Thurs 2-4pm If those hours do not suit, an appointment for FRIDAY or SATURDAY a.m. can be arranged. Tel. 01250 871305 email: blairgowrielibrary@pkc.gov.uk or blairgowriegenealogy@hotmail.co.uk If you can spare 2 hours a week, why not join us as a Volunteer. Please leave your contact details or come in to talk with us.
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Blairgowrie, Rattray and District Local History Trust The Trust’s current study is on the history of local schools. This will consist of a Time Line setting what we know and can discover about local schooling through the ages against the national picture; old school photographs; extracts from school log books and other records; artefacts; and personal reminiscences. We would welcome your help with this. If you have photos, mementos, stories, or anything that would help us, please contact the Trust secretary, Tony Luckins by email (bogor60@fastmail.fm) or phone (01250 876798). You can also hand in material to the Librarian in Lesley Street. Please remember to leave your name and contact details. Material from our present schools will be particularly welcome.
THE ‘NO FORESIGHT’ SAGA by Margaret Drummond An old school stands on a hill in Blair, Windows boarded and interior bare, Once a primary hub of education, Now a symbol of the town’s frustration. The Ericht Trust sought donations and grants To bid for the school, and submitted plans For a Heritage Centre, community led, But the powers that be killed their hopes stone dead. Meetings were postponed, decision date delayed, Till behind closed doors it was finally made, With a preferred commercial bid judged to be “Best public purse value” by PKC This bid’s acceptance is viewed as unfair With no concern for the real needs of Blair, And now folk are asking – just how long will The old school stand there untouched on the hill?
We have set up two pages on our website to record our findings: http://blairathistory.org/ schools.html And we will have a display at the Community Market on Saturday 28th May. We hope to see you there!
WHAT TO DO ABOUT LITTER.? The majority of our town is kept clean and tidy due to the attention it gets from the council. There are however many parts of the town that the council can’t clean up due to land ownership and this illustrates how quickly the town would look if it were not for the council’s staff.
Blair in Bloom, Perth & Kinross Council and hopefully other groups too, who are equally concerned about this problem.
The attached photograph shows a scene not too far from the Wellmeadow, there are many similar ones that demonstrate a lack of civic pride, a complete disregard for the environment and that there are some in society who just discard what they want and presume someone else will pick up their mess or maybe they just don’t care.
The campaign will have to be a long term effort continuing to remove litter and mess, but also a programme of awareness raising and generating widespread support from as many people, businesses and others in the town to make it clear this behaviour is unacceptable. In the longer term it is hoped by this programme of awareness raising and education the incidences of littering and fly tipping become less of an unsightly problem and we can be rightly proud of a litter free town in all it various parts.
Many of these areas have recently been cleared of litter and other rubbish by many volunteers from Blair in Bloom, Blairgowrie and Rattray Access Network and others too, but all too quickly these areas become as bad as ever.
If you would like to be a part of this campaign please call Ian Richards on 07787 317022 or by e-mail to ian_richards2007@yahoo.com
An anti-litter campaign will be launched in the Spring by The Community Council together with 34
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John Swinney MSP
payment of £1,500 to every household or business affected by recent flooding.
I was pleased to see the announcement from the Scottish Government that it will invest more than £160 million in 2016-17 on schemes that will help 5,000 people across Scotland buy their first home.
The Scottish Government can also make a payment to businesses of up to £3,000 if the ability to trade by that business has been significantly affected. An Agricultural Floodbank Restoration Scheme of £1 million has also been established.
This funding will be targeted at people on low incomes and will be vital for young people and their families looking to get on and up the housing ladder. These schemes don’t just boost homeownership but boost house building – creating jobs and supporting economic growth.
The recent bad weather has been a very difficult period for many local residents. I was determined to make sure we put in place support for individuals affected and the Scottish Government has swiftly announced a strong package of assistance.
Applications for the Help to Buy (Scotland) scheme open on March 1st and I would encourage eligible people in Highland Perthshire looking to buy their first home to apply.
I am delighted that Perth and Kinross Council, who handled the flooding challenge with such effectiveness, has now moved swiftly to announce the grant support that is available to members of the public. This is the type of immediate assistance that will be of help to local people.
More information about Help to Buy, including purchasing price limits, is available at: www.gov. scot/htb As part of Open Market Shared Equity, priority access is provided to social renters, disabled people, members of the armed forces, veterans who have left the armed forces within the past two years, and widows, widowers and other partners of service personnel for up to two years after their partner has been killed while serving in the armed forces.
I encourage local residents to take up the opportunity and gain access to support that will be helpful in getting back on their feet. Further information is available at http://www.pkc.gov.uk/ floodingsupportgrant or by calling the flooding team on 01738 475000
I welcome the package of flood support measures outlined by Perth and Kinross Council and I would encourage local people to apply for that assistance. The Scottish Government has allocated £1.65 million of new financial assistance to Perth and Kinross Council to enable the council to support local residents. This will involve a
I can be contacted at 17-19 Leslie Street, Blairgowrie, PH10 6AH, by telephone on 01250 876 576 or on email at john.swinney.msp@scottish. parliament.uk
Blairgowrie & District Ramblers Here are our upcoming walks - Anyone interested please contact the Secretary on 01250 873577 19th March Hill of Couternach, Glen Prosen 2nd April Dunsinane Hill & Pitmiddle Wood 16th April Montrose Beach Circular 28th April Social Evening 30th April Alyth Circular 14th May Loch Muick 28th May Killiecrankie to Ben Vrackie Circular 11th June Day Away Loch Katrine & Primrose Hill 25th June Little Glen Shee/Craig Gibbon Circular 36
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Blairgowrie Lyric Choir
Each Choir will perform its own programme and in addition several pieces will be sung by both together. The programme will be very varied and will certainly have something to suit all tastes in music.
In May this year Blairgowrie Lyric Choir will be welcoming guests from Stockholm Sweden. Through friends in Rattray, some members of this choir suggested a link with the Lyric Choir would be a good idea. This was followed up and now we are delighted to say that both choirs will meet for three days in May.
Tickets for the concerts will be on sale from Monday 11th April and can be purchased from Mitchell’s Newsagents and The Cookshop, both in the High Street.
Cantuskoren will arrive in Blairgowrie on Thursday 5th May and will perform two concerts along with the Lyric Choir. The first concert will be held in Blairgowrie Town Hall on Friday 6th May at 7pm and the second in Alyth Church on Saturday 7th May at 7pm.
We are hoping for a large turnout at both concerts so that we can give our Swedish friends a warm welcome and a visit they will enjoy, so please come along and support us.
Are you feeling isolated due to lack of suitable transport? We are trying to ascertain whether there is a need for a community transport scheme (possibly a taxi card scheme) to enable residents to maintain their independence and ability to get out and about when you wish. For example a trip to the hairdressers, out for a coffee, get some shopping etc. It maybe needed just for a short while after an op or longer term due to inability to drive or get on a bus. If you feel this would be of benefit to you or to someone you know, please could you let us know? We are a small working group made up of someone from Healthy Communities, Age Concern, Community Council, One Voice Volunteer Group and Discover Blairgowrie. Please contact us by email - admin@discoverblairgowrie.co.uk By telephone - One Voice Office, 01250 871120
BLAIRGOWRIE PLAYERS Blairgowrie Players entered 3 plays into this year’s Scottish Community Drama Association Festival of One Act Plays back in February. As in previous years they will be re-staged in Blairgowrie Town Hall on Friday 1st April with the curtain opening at 7pm. Tickets will be on sale at the Music Box early in March priced at £8. They will also be available on the door on the night or can be reserved by emailing blairplayers@btinternet.com. The price includes 3 very different one act plays with wine/soft drink and nibbles. The youth play is ‘The Hunt for Aiken Drum’, our children range from 8 to 16 in this story about a group of kids and their search for Aiken Drum …. the Brownie of Bladnoch. ‘The Education of Meg’ is the dramatic story of a dying old woman revisiting periods of her very hard life, and ‘The Last Bread Pudding’ is a comedy set in a drama group committee meeting, it does have a little swearing in it but nothing too extreme. Each play is enjoyable in its own way, come along and see what you think. 37
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The Listening Tree Coaching & Counselling Katie Nicol www.thelisteningtree.co.uk 07922 278766 BACP registered counsellor
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Hope Park House is a well established Care Home, set in beautiful landscaped grounds in Blairgowrie. Run by a charitable trust, we specialise in residential and respite care for older people with dementia and we aim to support our residents to lead fulfilling lives within the Home and through the wider community. Our new modern extension allows us to make positive contributions to the local community by offering a flexible Day Care Service, 7 days a week. We have planned activity programmes, visits from local groups and outings in our minibus. We also have two enclosed sensory gardens. Our staff team are friendly, motivated and trained to a high standard and are committed to ensuring the best possible outcomes for our residents. For more information or to visit, please contact Una Tennant on 01250 872349. Email care@hopeparkhouse.com 40
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CREATING A MEN’S SHED IN STRATHMORE? Following the success of the Carse of Gowrie Men’s Shed, there is renewed local interest in creating a Strathmore Men’s Shed. Members of Men’s Sheds come from all walks of life and the bond that unites them is that they are men, with time on their hands, skills they would like to learn or share, with some who are looking for something meaningful to do with their lives. A public meeting will be held at the Blairgowrie Recreation Centre, Beeches Road, Blairgowrie PH10 6PN on Wednesday 30th March at 6.30pm. We plan to have some Carse Shed members to answer questions and share their experience of setting up their Shed. All local men are invited to join us for this free event, tea and coffee will be provided. For more information please phone Jackie 01738 473718.
SNIPPETS FROM THE BLAIRGOWRIE ADVERTISER MARCH 1916 All steel Raleigh Bicycles with tyres fitted were on sale from £7.16/- at Raitt’s in the Wellmeadow. In a later edition of the Blairie Mr Raitt placed a notice saying that he had been called for patriotic duty at the front and that he hoped customers would keep supporting his business.
The Discover Blairgowrie Hub Magazine This magazine is directly connected to the www.discoverblairgowrie.co.uk website, the One Voice Volunteer Group, the Blairgowrie & Rattray Forum and the East Perthshire News 1 hour radio show on Heartland FM. These platforms provide a fairly inclusive method of reaching the people of Blairgowrie & Rattray, they are provided by locals for locals with NO external funding. We have built this magazine up so that it is now almost sustainable and it continues to grow. Nearly 1 year old, the Discover Blairgowrie website is also approaching sustainability solely by the support received from our advertisers and time given by local voluneteers. We hope to grow from strength to strength. 41
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Gillespie Inverarity & Co. Limited Chartered Accountants, Tax Consultants and Business Advisers “Accounting for your future not your past.” As your trusted adviser we are members of your team, focused on your results and your future. We will show you how to succeed not just how to do your accounts. “Looking forward not back in creating and protecting your wealth” Contact us today! 1st meeting free! 33 Leslie Street Blairgowrie PH10 6AW 01250870718 www.gillespiesca.co.uk
A relaxed and informal haven in the heart of Blairgowrie Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 4pm – 9.30pm Friday, Saturday 12pm – 2.30pm & 6pm – 9.30 www.littlesrestaurant.co.uk /WillieLittles 4 Wellmeadow, Blairgowrie, PH10 6ND 01250 875358 42
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PKAVS Carers Hub Website PKAVS has launched a new multi-agency Carers Hub website which offers carers quality information and online support. This website allows carers to access information, support, advice and opportunities within their community online. What you can expect: • Practical information and advice for Carers • What’s on for Carers within Perth and Kinross • Need a break? List of opportunities for carers and their cared for. • Advice and support for Carers • Read about other Carers stories… you are not alone • List of organisations that offer specific support to carers Please go to www.pkavscarershub.org.uk to be part of this online community and see what support is out there for Carers within Perth and Kinross. For more information please contact PKAVS Carers Hub on 01738 567076. PKAVS is a registered Scottish Charity (SC 005561) and a company Limited by Guarantee, Registered in Scotland (86065).
Julie Baird Pilates Body Control Pilates Instructor and REPs member (Register of Exercise Professionals) Practising for 10 years. When: Tuesday Evening Classes: 6pm-7pm and 7.10pm-8.10pm
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CRIGHTONS CYCLES
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Extensive range of bikes web: www.microblair.co.uk from trikes and scooters to Electric Bikes 87 Perth Street, Blairgowrie PH10 6DT Tel. 01250 874447
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J & J HOWE
Reform St. Blairgowrie
Open Mon – Fri 8 – 5 Sat 9 – 1 Still continuing our high quality REMOVALS and STORAGE Complete removal service Local and Long distance free quotations AUCTIONS and VALUATIONS Auction sale on Mondays 6pm Goods on view from 2pm day of sale Also Saturday 2 – 4 VISIT OUR INTERIOR SHOP Carpets, cushion floor, blinds and curtains. Try our free measuring and estimating service.
01250 872361 matt@jjhowe.co.uk www.jjhowe.co.uk 44
Discover Blairgowrie Magazine
Easter 2016
The Spring Garden
current growing season, with a view to longer term projects.
The great British obsession with the weather is extremely relevant when it comes to gardening and the various difficulties it presents. Many communities have suffered flooding in recent months, while severe gales have also taken their toll.
All the best gardeners are creative, hardworking, patient and content - well not always perhaps, as there are always frustrations to contend with. The aforementioned weather determines so much of what we do and when we do it in the garden and so you must carry out tasks when the conditions are favourable, but do not be tempted to plant and sow seeds too early.
As the buds of spring appear, you should assess your garden in terms of identifying and repairing any structural damage. Be it fences, shed roofs, damaged trees, or even garden furniture and trampolines that were dislodged during the winter gales, all need sorting.
Many of you will have been to visit garden centres for ideas in recent weeks and months, as well as the must do refreshments and cakes, but unless you have a heated glasshouse, the purchase of summer bedding and container plants so early will be disastrous and expensive.
Gardens can be designed to provide shelter and privacy, as well as offering seasonal interest which can be achieved by the use of hedging or barrier plants that cope with the elements. Natural plantings and fences should ideally be 50% porous otherwise wind speed and turbulence can increase within the garden causing further damage.
Some will have facilities to bring on their own seedlings, however I would recommend ordering plugs and seedlings which you can arrange through various suppliers online and to arrive at a time when you can grow them on in an unheated glasshouse or polytunnel.
Everyone bemoans the never ending rain which has resulted in saturated soils, making gardening difficult, particularly on heavy soils. In the garden lawns become muddy if worked on and any cultivation becomes a messy and tiresome business. Working the soil when too wet may result in structural damage and should be worked when less sticky. Gardens are best dug in the autumn, with farmyard manure incorporated where appropriate and ideally should the soil surface should be left lumpy for the frost to break it down and now is an ideal time to incorporate good garden compost which has broken down. This opens up the soil and makes it easier to work.
Other things to be considering as the days are lengthening could be, forking the lawn, applying lawn sand to kill off the moss, cut the grass lightly with the blades set at a height so as not to scalp the lawn. Finalise any digging and plant at the correct time, as the spring months can produce some sunshine, with the odd late flurry of snow and night time frosts. Ensure you do not overdo things, as many won’t have done much in the garden since the autumn so pace yourself, be patient and enjoy the joys and floral beauty that spring offers.
It never ceases to amaze me how hardy and durable many of our garden plants are. Obviously, many are annuals or are not winter hardy, with some succumbing to rots, frost damage, pests and disease and numerous other disorders and on occasion our own errors and misjudgement. Climate change may be an issue and while parts of the UK suffer drought conditions in summer, in Perthshire it appears rather different and our plant selection process hasn’t changed too much. Spring is always a welcome time of the gardening year and a time to look forward and plan for the 45
Discover Blairgowrie Magazine
Easter 2016
Blairgowrie & Rattray Community Football Club As the Club continues to develop with more boys and girls wanting to take part in football. The Clubs Girls section has received a boost to their coaching staff with the addition of Forfar Farmington footballer Megan Hassett. Megan will bring a wealth of skills and experience of women’s football to the girls’ teams. For further information on girls’ football contact Lee Macdonald on Tel. No. 07909115018 or email skebs78@btinternet.com. Alternatively, on Facebook “Blairgowrie and Rattray Girls Football 2007-2010”. Another boost to this section will be a series of taster sessions for girls of Blairgowrie and Rattray run by Saint Johnstone Football Club in conjunction with the S.W.F. and the B.R.C.F.C. commencing after the Easter holidays, times and venues still to be confirmed. On the 31st January 2016 the B.R.C.F.C. received notification that they were granted Charitable Status and are now a SCIO Club. Finally, the Club have changing facilities at the Piggy Lane pitches in the form of self-contained units complete with toilets as well as another unit for storage. The units have been donated by the Scottish Football Partnership at a considerable cost. This is another major step forward in providing a base for the kids of Blairgowrie and Rattray for years to come. A big thank you to the S.F.P.
Blairgowrie YFC 2009’s We are just one of many kids football teams involved within Blairgowrie and Rattray Community Football Club. Starting up last year as Blairgowrie 2009s taking a dozen 5 year olds coaching and training them and watching them turn themselves into a fantastic wee football team. Last year we played 4 aside games each Sunday from March to October in Perth then during shutdown we play in Dundee. We travelled to half a dozen football tournaments up and down the country last year where the boys showed off their skills and their behaviour was impeccable representing Blairgowrie. We train at least once a week, but also take part in Coerver and Box Soccer in partnership with BRCFC, which the boys are loving. We do most of our training at Piggy Lane, where with the hard work and dedication from BRCFC along with the SFA, we now have two fantastic changing units, toilets and storage facilities. This year, we are looking to play 5 aside and compete in more tournaments, we are currently booked to take part in 3 already and as coaches we are just looking to enjoy watching the boys develop their abilities and grow in stature again this season. We would like to thank the many generous sponsors who helped us out last year Proctors, Wydos taxis, Unite Union, Robertson’s Farm, Subway, Balhousie Care Group, Scotmid and all who helped when we had the charity shop. “Blairgowrie 2009s YFC” have a facebook page where there are many pics of what our boys have been up to in there maiden year, please like our page to keep up to date with our achievements. Here’s to at least another dozen years Blairgowrie 2009s. 46
Discover Blairgowrie Magazine
Easter 2016
Restaurant and Bistro.
Call 01250 876735
Lower Mill Street, Riverside, Blairgowrie, PH10 6UD www.cargillsbistro.com
We are delighted to serve you . . . all day from 10.30am until last orders 9pm Serving breakfast, morning coffee, lunch, cream teas, evening meals or simply a quick snack or glass of wine!
Check out our events on our website or
The Discover Blairgowrie Name A Puppy Appeal Update Thanks to the generosity of the residents of Blairgowrie and Rattray and the efforts from all involved, the discover Blairgowrie nap appeal has raised an amazing £3550 as at the 12th of February! More fundraising events are in the planning including – A sponsored dog walk, a coffee morning and a music evening, plus many more! If you would like to get involved or simply keep up to date with events, please note your interest at www.discoverblairgowrie.co.uk
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