Blairgowrie & Rattray Summer Hub Magazine

Summer 2019

Sponsored by Stagecoach

Blairgowrie & Rattray

Hub Magazine

In this edition Bookmark Festival

Darroch Wood - Image by John Siwek

Made in Blair

Leslie Street Art Trail

Cateran Ecomuseum Understanding Human-Beaver Interactions PLUS ALL THE USUAL INFO ON EVENTS AND COMMUNITY MAGAZINE PRODUCED BY THE

Blairgowrie & Rattray Development Trust Ltd

BRDT SC039702

In this Issue...

Page Welcome Calendar

3 4

Community Groups Blairgowrie & Rattray Development Trust Booklore The Heat Project Update Blairgowire & Rattray Community Council Blairgowrie & Rattray Access Network (BRAN) Blairgowrie and Rattray Business Association Blair in Bloom

6 7 9 10 11 13 14

Events Blairgowrie & Rattray Highland Games Made In Blair Apple Pressing

17 18 19

History Blairgowrie & Rattray - Our Heritage Blairgowrie and Rattray Genealogy Centre Constabulary Duty to be Done

20 22 23

News and Articles Geocaching Lipreading Claseeses in Perthshire Latest News on Mary’s Meals in Blairgowrie Bra Donations Vibrant Leslie Street Art Trail Is Back Understanding Human-Beaver Interactions Blairgowrie Scottish Country Dance Club Local Church News Granny Pat’s Summer Recipe The Ericht Scottish Country Dance Group Blairgowrie Dental Care at Blairgowrie High School Bookmark Festival Friendship Cafe Timebank Looking For A New Chairperson Safe Sanctuary - Gordon Croll Wine Memories Cateran Ecomuseum Stagecoach Blairgowrie Players Brexfast Anyone?! - Margaret Drummond Comical Creatures Health & Wellbeing Learning Festival & Strategy Page 2

Page

Sports & Activities Blairgowrie Tennis Club Strathmore Cycle Network Blairgowrie Bowling Club Rattray Tennis Club Macnabs Sponsors Blair Bolts

54 55 56 56 57

Interviews & Contributors’ Articles 58 58 59 56 61 62

Cllr Bob Brawn Cllr Tom McEwan Cllr Caroline Shiers Pete Wishart MP John Swinney MSP Murdo Fraser

Business & Contacts

66 67

Local Business Contacts Useful Phone Numbers

Advertise With Us Please send any adverts or any questions about advertising with us to this address.

Email mag@brdt.org.uk

24 26 27 27 28 29 29 30 32 32 33 34 36 36 37 40 41 42 42 43 43 44

Full page

£150

1/2 page

£80

1/4 page

£45

1/8 page

£25

5% reduction in cost for 4 Editions (annual)

Dates for this years Hub Magazine Accepting Articles & Adverts from ...

Magazine Available ...

Autumn 19/07/19 - 09/08/19

Last week of August

Winter

18/10/19 - 08/11/19

Last week of November

Spring

17/01/20 - 07/02/20

Last week of February

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Welcome to the 2019 Summer Magazine This edition is our biggest one to date with many articles on sport, wine, and other interests like geo-caching (page 24) and beavers (page 29).

Of note is an article on the ECOMUSEUM by Clare Cooper. Our Heritage proposes another pop-up in July and there is a preview of the Leslie Street Art Trail proposals for September (page 28).

Neil Rutherford from BDS gives health advice on your “drinking habits” on page 33.

We are particularly delighted to focus attention in this edition on the forthcoming launch of the BOOKMARK festival programme. You will find information about this successful venture, which just gets better every year, on centre pages.

Eleanor Rutherford - principal teacher of English, Blairgowrie High School – brings news of BHS activities John Siwek - our talented graphic designer who puts the magazine together in an attractive and appealing format. No easy task. We would ask prospective contributors to heed the guidelines – no more than 500 words, good resolution (and separate) photos, and breaking up messages into short bursts with a “pull quote” – makes reading lengthy pieces easier to read.

Finally we do appreciate feedback and suggestions on how we could add to this community magazine.

Thank you Jessie

We would like to encourage more feature Magazine articles are the responsibility of the writing, so if there are any budding journalists article owner, The Hub Magazine accepts no out there please be in touch. responsibility for the content.

Our band of magazine workers is getting even smaller. We would welcome anyone interested in coming on to the team.

Jessie Shaw - co-ordinates the team and manages the throughflow traffic of articles and adverts for the magazine at mag@brdt.org.uk Pat Richards – secretary to the group – makes and keeps all minutes (Granny Pat too) Marie Soutar - sends out invoices to advertisers.

Pat McCarthy – organises and keeps note of huge band of volunteers who distribute 5000 copies of the magazine to local households and businesses free of charge, Margaret Drummond – seeks our articles and writes and contributes to children’s corner.

Margaret also is our Proof Reader.

MAGAZINE DELIVERY Distribution and delivery of the magazine – we are indebted to the many willing volunteers who deliver 5250 copies to every household and some businesses in the town. Without this help the magazine would not be as successful as it has been.

YOUR HELP IS NEEDED to deliver the

magazine particularly in the streets around the town centre – Allan Street, Perth Street and Wellmeadow IF YOU CAN HELP WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU Contact mag@brdt.org.uk or phone 01250 871120 Above & Cover Image taken by John SIwek Page 3

What’s On? Calendar for Blairgowrie & Rattray

May 2019 25th

Blairgowrie Community Market - Wellmeadow, Blairgowrie at 10am - 3pm

29th 31st

Craft n Craic May - St Catherines Hall at 7pm - 9pm Blair & Rattray Time Bank - Rattray Connect at 10am - 11:30am

31st

Blairgowrie and District Hillwalking Club Spring Weekend - 31st May to 2nd of June Strathpeffer, For information phone 07976 509 826.

June 2019 1st 1st

Absract Views - Strathmore Centre For Youth Development, Wellmeadow House - 10am - 3pm Felt Art: Needle Felt Landscape - Create at Nest at 10am - 4pm

1st 4th

Ramblers - Day Away Rosslyn Chapel Multiple Sclerosis Society - Buddies @ Blair MS Support Group June The Royal Hotel at 10.30 am - 12 pm Blairgowrie and District Trefoil Guild May - St Catharines Community Centre at 7.30pm Blethers Group June - The Royal Hotel at 10 am - 12 pm Blairgowrie & Rattray Business Association June Meeting -TBC at 8.30am

5th 5th 5th 5th 7th-14th

Rhyme and Time Strathmore Centre For Youth Development, Wellmeadow House at 7pm BRDT Charity Shop - Howe’s, 1 - 3 Wellmeadow, Blairgowrie

12th

Whist Club Blair & Rattray Timebank - Lifeplus Centre (Old YWCA), William Street - 2pm-4 pm

14th

Blair & Rattray Time Bank - SCYD, Wellmeadow House - 10 am - 11.30 am

15th

Blairgowrie and District Hillwalking Club June Walk - Inverbervie to Johnshaven at 7am

15th

Ramblers - Loch Shandra & Auchintaple Loch Circular

19th

Blairgowrie, Rattray and District Climate Cafe - BRDT Office, 1- 3 Wellmeadow at 7pm - 9pm

20th

Crafty Folk - SCYD Cafe, Wellmeadow House - 2 pm - 4 pm

22nd

Blairgowrie Community Market - Wellmeadow, Blairgowrie at 10am - 3pm

24th

Monday Social - Nest, Reform Street - 1pm - 3pm

26th

Craft n Craic - St Catherines Hall at 7pm - 9pm

26th

Rhyme and Time Strathmore Centre For Youth Development, Wellmeadow House at 7pm

28th

Blair & Rattray Time Bank - Community Connect, Rattray - 10 am - 11.30 am

29th

Mary’s Meals Coffee Morning - Blairgowrie Town Hall at 10am - 12pm

29th

Ramblers - Glen Kendrum

July 2nd

Multiple Sclerosis Society - Buddies @ Blair MS Support Group MS Society Perth and Kinross Branch - 07552368216 - 10.30 am - 12 pm

3rd 3rd

Blethers Group July - The Royal Hotel at 10 am - 12 pm Blairgowrie & Rattray Business Association June Meeting - TBC - 8.30am

4th

Blairgowrie & Rattray Community Council July Meeting - ARC, Jessie Street at 7pm

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BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

6th

Ericht Scottish Country Dance Class July Dance - Blairgowrie Town Hall at 7.30pm - 11pm

10th 11th 12th

Whist Club - Blair & Rattray Timebank - YWCA Hall - 2 pm - 4 pm Blairgowrie & Rattray Forum Mtg - The Angus Hotel at 5.30pm Blair & Rattray Time Bank - SCYD, wellmeadow Cafe at 10am - 11.30am

13th 14th 17th

Ramblers - Stormontfield Loop Blairgowrie and District Hillwalking Club Walk - South Loch Laggan at 7.30am (cars) Blairgowrie, Rattray and District Climate Cafe - BRDT Office, 1- 3 Wellmeadow - 7pm - 9pm

17th

Rhyme and Time Strathmore Centre For Youth Development, Wellmeadow House at 7pm

18th

Crafty Folk - SCYD Cafe, Wellmeadow House - 2 pm - 3.30 pm Made in Blair Our Heritage ‘‘Tales from the Riverbank’’ - Blairgowrie Library

18th-20th 20th-22th

26th 27th 27th 31th

Blair & Rattray Time Bank July - Community Connect, Rattray - 10 am - 11.30 am Blairgowrie Community Market - Wellmeadow, Blairgowrie at 10am - 3pm Ramblers - Deuchary Hill Craft n Craic July - St Catherines Hall - 7pm - 9pm

August 2019 3rd - 9th Rattray Parish Church New To You Shop - Howes Charity Shop, Reform Street 4th Blairgowrie and District Hillwalking Club - Blackmount at 7.30am 6th Multiple Sclerosis Society - Buddies @ Blair MS Support Group May The Royal Hotel at 10.30am - 12pm 7th Blethers Group August - The Royal Hotel at 10 am - 12 pm 8th Blairgowrie & Rattray Community Council August Meeting Adult Resource Centre, Jessie Street, Blairgowrie at 7pm 9th Blair & Rattray Time Bank - SCYD, Wellmeadow House at 10am - 11.30am 10th Ramblers - Glen Sherup Horseshoe 14th Blairgowrie, Rattray and District Climate Cafe - BRDT Office, 1- 3 Wellmeadow - 7pm - 9pm 14th

Whist Club - Blair & Rattray Timebank - YWCA Hall - 2 pm - 4 pm

15th 16th 24th 24th 25th

Crafty Folk - SCYD Cafe, Wellmeadow House - 2 pm - 3.30 pm Ericht Scottish Country Dance August Dance - Blairgowrie Town Hall at 7.30pm - 11pm Blairgowrie Community Market - Wellmeadow, Blairgowrie at 10am - 3pm Ramblers - Allean Forest & The Stones - 10.30am Blairgowrie and District Hillwalking Club Walk - Ben Challum - Tyndrum at 7.30am

28th 30th

Craft n Craic August - St Catherines Hall at 7pm - 9pm Blair & Rattray Time Bank - Rattray Connect at 10am - 11:30am

This is taken directly from Discover Blairgowrie website www.discoverblairgowrie.co.uk For more information and future events take a look at the Discover Blairgowrie website.

Page 5

Community Groups

BLAIRGOWRIE & RATTRAY DEVELOPMENT TRUST NEWS Another busy period for the Blairgowrie and Rattray Development Trust (BRDT), with many exciting projects moving forward.

We have been building a new website which will keep you up to date with the work we do. BRDT is immensely grateful to David Gow local photographer, who kindly provided several beautiful images of the town which we have used on a number of pages to stunning effect. The new site retains the original address of www.brdt.org.uk and will go live towards the end of May. Trustees have also been working with Blairgowrie and Rattray Business Association (BARBA) to further develop the Discover Blairgowrie website as a key promotional and marketing resource to increase visitors and tourists to the town.

The Blairgowrie and Rattray Community Action Plan (CAP) Working Group held its second meeting in March to collaborate on the implementation of the many projects and activities for town improvement. A quarterly report on the progress of this plan will be published on the BRDT website, as well as in a new Newsletter; the first publication of this being late June. The CAP Working Group welcomed its newest member, Jamie McLennan of Strathmore Centre for Youth Development (SCYD) – Co-ordinator of the East Perthshire Youth Alliance. Through the recently launched Youth Forum, Jamie will work with many of the key groups across the town to support greater engagement and involvement of young people in our community.

Recently BRDT, Our Heritage Group and other key members of the CAP Working Group held meetings with Perth and Kinross Council to progress one of the key priorities in the Plan – that being the establishment of a heritage centre and a centrally located community resource.

This project aims to offer a suitable town centre provision where a number of groups and organisations will co-locate to deliver a range of facilities and services. An enterprise such as this requires a suitable building fit for purpose.

Accordingly, and in agreement with the Council, The Trust has registered an Expression of Interest in the property at 46 Leslie Street. This building is scheduled to come out of Council use at a later date.

The facilities in a centre such as this will be specifically designed to address the needs of the community; originally identified through the consultation process to inform the CAP. This resource will encourage tourism and welcome more visitors by means of a centrally located information centre and booking bureau where day visitors, tourists and local people can access information about events, local attractions, accommodation and things to do in the town and surrounding areas. Facilities and services will be developed in collaboration with Blairgowrie & East Perthshire Tourist Association, local businesses, accommodation providers and other key stakeholders such as PK Culture and PKC Community Planning.

The building will also look to accommodate a Heritage Centre – another Community Action Plan priority. This area will exhibit, celebrate and promote the proud history of Page 6

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Blairgowrie; showcasing and displaying the cultural, industrial and social history of the town in creative and innovative ways. With regard to the nearest neighbour in the library, such an initiative brings opportunities to collaborate with PK Culture to support and enhance the community library services of the future Centres such as these have running costs which need to be met. Accordingly, the overall design can also make provision for income generators such as commercial and retail outlets, hire of event/meeting spaces and co-working units to individuals or small businesses.

For our members we are holding an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on 19th June 2019.

We want to make BRDT a little more accessible by proposing a change to the membership rules; moving away from an annual subscription to a ‘one-off’ £5 membership fee. We are also appealing for more members and volunteers to sign up and get involved. BRDT needs a large cohort of active and engaged members to demonstrate strong community support in order to fulfil its obligations to the town BRDT and the many projects we support need more members and volunteers to support these initiatives for town improvement.

Please step forward…get in touch Tel: 01250 876000 or email admin@brdt.org.uk Stuart Nichol BRDT Chair

BOOKLORE Charity Bookshop 13 Upper Mill Street Blairgowrie Why not drop in to see what we have on offer? …..We are open Tuesday to Saturday inclusive, 10am to 4pm, selling a wide range of good quality paperback and hardback fiction and non-fiction books, photos of Blairgowrie and Rattray in the past and a selection of art work by one of our volunteers.

Over the year we have monthly offers on a selection of non-fiction titles and our good quality, paperback fiction and crime fiction are £1 per book.

One Voice and Booklore are part of BRDT, a registered charity, and are self-supporting.

In addition to selling books, which are kindly donated by the local community, we offer local information to residents and visitors alike – if we cannot help we can put you in touch with someone who can. Our shop, and

office are run solely by volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering with us please drop into the shop or phone 01250 871120 and see what we can offer you.

UPCOMING OFFERS JUNE ALL NON - FICTION HALF PRICE JULY 1st to 6th – EVERYTHING £1 6th to 31st - CHILDREN’S AND NATURE HALF PRICE. AUGUST BIOGRAPHY AND COOKERY 50% OFF.

COME AND VISIT OUR ALADDIN’S CAVE OF BOOKS!!

Blairgowrie & Rattray Development Trust Ltd

One Voice for the Community

Page 7

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BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Community Groups Click and collect food market – NeighbourFood Blairgowrie and Rattray Our second, and equally exciting new initiative is our local food market.

HEAT Project support for the local economy For the past two years, the HEAT Project has concentrated on spreading the news about climate change and helping people reduce energy use in their homes.

But we have also been working away at developing ideas to help support the local economy and reduce all our carbon dioxide emissions as consumers.

At long last, we are about to go live with two exciting new initiatives – a Local Loyalty Scheme and a click and collect local food market.

Local Loyalty Scheme After several months of consultation, design and training, the HEAT Project hosted a meeting on 1st May to give local businesses a final say about the design of the Local Loyalty Scheme.

We want to support small local businesses and also help you reduce the climate impact of your shopping choices – locally grown healthy food, from environmentally friendly sources with a much smaller carbon footprint.

You will be able to join online and every week be invited to place orders with a range of local quality food producers – vegetable growers, jams and preserves, bakery and more – and pick up your whole order from our office.

We will be launching this in early June with pick up scheduled for every Thursday from 4pm till 7pm from our office.

To find out more about both of these initiatives, please pop into the office at 1-3 Meadow Place, talk to us at the next community market, or follow us online at https://theheatproject.scot/

Ten local business people attended, along with representatives on BARBA, Discover Blairgowrie and Mount Blair Community Development Trust.

Noeleen Chapman, the scheme manager, and Ian Videlo, the founder of GainLoyalty (our software provider) outlined the proposal and sought input on any last minute tweaks.

It was agreed that the proposals described were well worth pursuing and that we should move to a launch as quickly as possible.

In summary, the scheme will be based on both a smartphone app and a card, with businesses able to decide for themselves what types of offer they will make to loyal customers, including rewards for points saved, exclusive access to sales, buy one get one free, gift cards. The HEAT project will supply training, admin support and marketing.

So what happens next? We will be out and about, getting businesses enrolled and up to speed. We will also be emailing our contacts inviting them to join as customers, and participating shops will be offering membership to their customers.

Page 9

Community Groups

Blairgowrie & Rattray Community Council (BRCC) One of the many progressive decisions made by this Community Council was to adopt a recommendation by the Scottish Government for towns to take part in a Charrette process some three years ago now. The only other town to have previously taken part in our local authority area was Auchterarder and some good things had apparently come of it in terms of ideas for town improvements.

The suggestion that Blairgowrie & Rattray should engage was floated at a BRCC meeting in early 2016. Few, if any, members had ever heard of the process so a good deal of reading up became necessary, the word literally translated from the French means ‘cart’ – not particularly helpful. Stuart Nichol had been the councillor to first suggest our involvement then explained that the word more relevantly was now used to mean an intense period of design or planning activity.

The Community Council agreed to become involved but first the matter of finance had to be addressed as a consultant well versed in delivering such a programme would have to be engaged. The cost would be £20,000, half of which would come from the Scottish Government, the other half would need to be match funded. Perth and Kinross Council proved to be very helpful in this regard, appointing a very professional officer to assist our case. The officer managed to raise the funds on our behalf and helped with the process of finding and engaging the ideal consultant. Deal done.

Stuart chaired the necessary public meeting and helped facilitate the several public workshops that were to follow. The process was very thorough and comprehensive with every conceivable aspect of our town and its needs covered.

The results were collated and presented to the public, these met with general approval.

Through the Charrette process the community had created a list of desirable future outcomes for Blairgowrie and Rattray.

These outcomes were later used as the basis for the Community Action Plan that was adopted some 15 months later prior to the creation of the Blairgowrie & Rattray Development Trust in 2018.

During the period of its creation, groups of community volunteers formed to lead and progress several of the projects identified – The Heat Project, The Riverside Venture Group and The Our Heritage Group to name a few.

From what had started as a somewhat puzzling concept we now have a substantial community created blueprint for the future of the town, a single voice (BRDT) that can speak to authorities and government on our behalf, and probably most importantly, a community that is now more ‘together’ than at any time in recent history.

Whilst the sad episode surrounding the proposed Hill Primary Project still leaves a bitter taste in mouths, Blairgowrie and Rattray has moved on and can once again look forward to an exciting but still challenging future.

Ian Richards - Chair

Page 10

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Blairgowrie & Rattray Access Network (BRAN) BRAN volunteers undertook a good deal of late winter work, preparing for the start of the new season. A lot of cutting back side and overhead growth was carried out on various paths before the birds started their 2019 nesting season.

Another pre-season job was to remove stones from the paths to avoid them causing trips and also to avoid damage to the group’s mowers. BRAN also carried out work on one of the area’s hidden gems.

For the first time the group cleared fly-tipped waste from the old A93 road through Craighall Gorge.

Why people should find it necessary to despoil our beautiful area is another question? For those who have never walked the old road, now a core footpath and rapidly being overtaken by nature, it’s a very worthwhile walk and an easy one if taken as a ‘there and back’. It could also be included in a circular walk from Lornty Bridge along the old military road, across the A93 and down onto its old section. Most of us regularly drove the old road over the Bailey bridge but most of the views are completely missed from a car. Craighall is the deepest gorge in Scotland and the views from the road down to the river and across it are spectacular, with views of Craighall Castle and further on towards its north end a walker will see the very impressive crags that drop sheer down on both sides of the river.

BRAN has just begun its long awaited Knockie shelter project, having just cleared the area at the top of the hill. Volunteers have dug shallow foundations for the stone work that will create an open shelter, highest to the west where the wind normally blows from and lowest to the opening at its easterly side. There will be a stone bench seat incorporated where folk may catch their breath having walked up from Newton Street. Walkers should be able to enjoy views across the strath towards the Sidlaws whilst sheltering from the often-blowing wind. The group has also shored up the bank up to the existing wooden bench to improve access to it.

Bran always welcomes new volunteers, be that on a one-off or regular basis. Anyone interested is asked to contact the secretary, Ian Richards.

Ian_richards2007@yahoo.com, 01250 871122, 07787 317022

The Card Gallery (Hallmark)

23, Allan Street, Blairgowrie. 01250 876444

“It’s the Thought that Counts” Come to us for new design cards and gifts that are a little bit different!

Aromatherapy Lamps, Helium Balloons New range of Broons and Oor Wullie plaques Scottish Tea Towels, Whisky Glass Gift sets Lewis Chessmen, Ladycrow Velvet Tartan Scarves And much more!

Friendly, experienced staff, happy to help.

Page 11

Community Groups

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For more information visit www.infinitybludental.co.uk Page 12

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

An update on what we’ve been doing alongside Discover Blairgowrie.

Westpark Development

Getting to Know Our Businesses

By the time the magazine is printed we will have had our first meeting with the Westpark Developer to look at ways to work together.

We are arranging familiarisation visits for our members – the idea being to get to know each other so we can talk about other businesses to visitors as the Tourist Information Office is now closed.

Reporters Visit

Cateran Yomp Discount Card

We are inviting reporters from 6 or 7 Scottish newspapers for an overnight stay to experience the town, local businesses, accommodation and activity providers.

We are working with the Yomp organisers to encourage Yompers to come into the town this year by offering a discount card for the week of the event. Contact us on admin@barba.org.uk to get involved.

We’ve also been working with the HEAT Project and the Loyalty Scheme and will be helping them roll out the scheme to businesses in the town.

We can only support these activities because of our members – get in touch to join.

To get involved with any of the above activities please do get in touch: admin@barba.org.uk Page 13

Community Groups

By the time this edition of the Hub Magazine is delivered to you, we hope that our hanging baskets will be ready to go out. The plug plants arrived early in April and, despite the cold temperatures, have grown well. Hopefully a colourful display is guaranteed for the summer.

Since our last article, we have completed a make-over in The Meeting Place, Croft Lane. The wooden pergolas and seats were all treated with a wood preservative. A lot of the old, overgrown shrubs and plants were removed and new planting put in. This area was highlighted by both the Beautiful Scotland and Take a Pride in Perthshire judges as needing attention. We hope they will look favourably on the improvements we have made. However, we still have a problem with litter and anti-social behaviour which is very annoying.

Fund raising is ongoing for Coronation Corner and we hope to have good news in the not too distant future that we have secured at least part of the funding needed. Thanks to everyone who generously donated to our Just Giving campaign. We are, as always, extremely grateful for your continued support and encouragement.

The Meeting Place looking very smart.

Page 14

If you are interested in volunteering with Blair in Bloom, or would like more information please contact us at blairinbloom@aol.com

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

CRIGHTONS CYCLES Jamie Duncan Aerial & Satellite TV Extensions All types of Satellites installed TV wall mounting Based in Blairgowrie Established 1999 Phone:

07736 551 665 jdaerials@sky.com

New & Used Cycle Sales Repairs & Servicing E-Bike Sales & Repair Parts & Accessories (4 yrs 0% Finance Available on E-Bikes)

Extensive range of bikes for all the family 87 PERTH STREET, BLAIRGOWRIE PH10 6DT

Tel. 01250 874447

Blairgowrie Stroke Club L

k what we do on Mondays!

10am – 12 noon Activities, Speakers, Art & Craft Workshops, Exercise, Monthly Outings, Indoor Games and lots of chat.

Our Peer Support Group allows those with Stroke-related illnesses to relax in a friendly, sociable and understanding environment.

Where?

St Catharine’s Hall, George Street, Blairgowrie

New Members, Volunteers, Relief Volunteer Drivers - ALL WELCOME Phone: Joyce on 01250 875342 or Jacky on 01250 872224 Email: chssblair@gmail.com

Page 15

Making Tax Digital with Gillespie’s Chartered Accountants

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BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Blairgowrie and Rattray Highland Games Sunday 8th September 2019

We hope that you are all looking forward to attending this year’s Highland Games in Bogles Field.

The committee members have been working hard behind the scenes to ensure that there are plenty of events and activities for people of all ages to watch and take part in.

Last year, we were fortunate enough to have Ed and Yasmin from television programme All Over The Place with us for the day, which was broadcast recently. It was great coverage of our Games. If you were at the Games and saw the programme you may even have spotted yourself on television.

This year all our regular events will be back – the heavy weight competitions, the piping and Highland dancing competitions and the track events. We are increasing the prize money available for these events this year in a bid to attract more competitors.

The popular Ardblair Stones will also be back as well as other stones of strength challenges, the Nicol Stones, the Husafell Stone Carry, and the stone lift to shoulder.

Blairgowrie and Rattray Highland Games will once again be the Scottish final of the International Highland Games Federation Stones of Strength.

We are delighted that the Rotary Club of Blairgowrie will be hosting the mini Highland Games for children once again this year. Dog rescue charity Staffie Smiles Rescue will also be back with the dog show.

And of course there will be the annual Rattray versus Blairgowrie tug o’ war challenge with what is thought to be the longest tug o’ war rope in the country.

A new attraction for this event will be Braveheart Axe Throwing, who entertained hundreds of people at Scone Palace recently and who tour the country showing off their skills. There will be an opportunity for visitors to the Games to have a go at axe throwing if they wish, but we would recommend getting there early if you do as we are sure this will be a hugely popular event.

A number of local businesses have booked a stall at the Games, for which we are extremely grateful, and will be showcasing their wares on the day. We would urge you to support them. There are a few spaces still available, please contact secretary@ blairgowriehighlandgames.co.uk for more information.

We will shortly be contacting businesses in the town about advertising and sponsorship opportunities for the Games, and with around 2000 attendees at the event last year it is a good way to raise your profile and support a long-standing local tradition at the same time.

Thanks to one local sponsor, Balmoral Garage, we will also soon have some new signs advertising the Games on several of the roads into Blairgowrie and Rattray.

For all the latest news and information on Blairgowrie and Rattray Highland Games, check out the website or follow us on Facebook, Twitter @blair_games or Instagram at blairgowriehighlandgames.

We hope to see you in September!

Photographs copyright Clare McMicking / CraicN Communications

Page 17

’MADE IN BLAIR’... 18th, 19th & 20th JULY 2019...

CALLING YOUNG CREATIVES! Are you a young artist, musician, writer, filmmaker, photographer, sculptor…or other?

GET IN TOUCH TO SHOWCASE YOUR TALENTS Patrick Rooney, local Filmmaker is hosting a new three-day arts event for young people with support from Blairgowrie and Rattray Development Trust Ltd. Made in Blair is an exciting new opportunity to showcase the creative talents of young people in the area. This will be a family friendly event for all ages and interests across our community, offering young people who are interested in the arts, a platform to exhibit or perform their work.

This is a landmark local event; the first of its kind to focus solely on promoting and showcasing young talent. This will be an occasion to start building a network of young artists and performers, and forge intergenerational links with the established local arts community.

There will be a diverse programme of exhibitors, performers and contributors – bringing together young people of all abilities in a positive and productive way. It will celebrate the creativity of youth and offer a chance to get involved in their community in ways that inspire and motivate.

Made in Blair will challenge convention by hosting the event in venues not usually associated with the arts. We believe this will reinforce its unique appeal and encourage more creative potential in our community. Works will be exhibited in a number of venues with art, film and music themed workshops open for everyone to attend, as well as musical performances throughout the three days.

This event also aims to raise the profile of the town and encourage visitors from outwith the area.

OUR SPONSORS: Thank you to Perth & Kinross Council – Community Investment Fund for making this event possible DATES: Thursday 18th July, Friday 19th July and Saturday 20th July.

GET IN TOUCH: If you or someone you know is interested in being a part of ‘Made in Blair’, whether you want to hold a workshop, exhibit your work or perform: Contact Patrick Event Organiser for more information: Email patrickrooney23@gmail.com or Telephone: Development Trust Office 01250 876000 Page 18

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Apples dates for your diary Looks like this may be another bumper year for apples in Blairgowrie and Rattray. So maybe note these dates in your diaries?

Sat 31 Aug : Workshop at The Nest, Reform St, Blairgowrie, making non-plastic cloth bags for hanging apples around the town for the public to help themselves. Just come along when you can, no bag-making experience needed! And if you have any remnants of material that could be used, hand them in beforehand to The Nest, Tuesdays to Saturdays, 10am–4pm.

Sun 8 Sept : Blairgowrie Highland Games, from 10am onwards : Probably we will have some apples to give away.

Sat 28 Sept, 10am–3pm : Apple pressing in the Wellmeadow. Only one date this year, so come ear-ly to get to the front of the queue to get your eating apples pressed into delicious juice.

Any queries or offers of help to Kristin Barrett, 872634, or Kay Seal, 874633

Introducing Blairgowrie Curtains & Carpets Part of Howe’s Removals Group WE MEASURE, SUPPLY AND FIT Originally a saddlery firm the company diversified and now specialise in ● Carpets ● Cushion floor Let us introduce you to Lynne our friendly interiors advisor who will come out and measure for flooring, curtains & blinds and offer expert advice.

● Blinds ● Readymade Curtains ● Made to measure curtains ● Cushion covers & accessories For more information on our services contact 01250 872361 or e-mail enquiries@jjhowe.co.uk

Remember about our Local, National & International Removal Service Page 19

History

With another Pop-Up exhibition under

Blairgowrie & Rattray

Our Heritage

its belt, the group is now turning its attention to its next project – the mid-summer event, once again to be held in the Blairgowrie library.

Writing this article on behalf of Our Heritage for the Summer edition of our Hub Magazine gives me an opportunity to thank the authorities, groups and individuals who have made the staging of these events possible.

Firstly, Culture Perth and Kinross for letting Our Heritage loose in the library during off days and to Craig Dennis and his staff who do a lot to help the transition from library to exhibition space. Perth and Kinross Council were very helpful in allowing the group to have exclusive use of the adjacent car park at Easter for its vehicle displays. Our Heritage owes its success to having representatives from a number of local groups make up its Steering Committee.

Much of the display material is created and supplied by these groups whose knowledgeable members also make up the team of volunteers who man the event each day. The initial appeals for contributions from the community for items of interest etc are always met with a tremendous response and the generous offers of local artefacts etc. Lastly a huge thank you to all those who visit and enjoy the exhibitions, the organisers never fail to be amazed at the level of interest shown, both by locals and those from further afield.

This brings us to our next offering, the weekend of the 20th, 21st and 22nd July will see the group holding an exhibition based on our local river – ‘Tales from the Riverbank’ quite a challenge but another very exciting prospect.

Visitors can expect to see a very wide range of material, from live music, presentations, photographic records, interesting artefacts and items related to the river.

Such a theme allows the group to feature a very wide range of related subjects, for example: - fishing, natural history - feathered, furred, amphibian, wee flying & swimming beasties, bats, the beavers, bridges, water craft, the mills, local myths and legends – the list goes on!

The event will also feature elaborate river related Lego constructions created by our local expert as well as a Lego play area for youngsters.

Blairgowrie owes its existence to the River Ericht, it’s only right that we should celebrate it in this way!

This will be the fifth exhibition held by the group since its inception in early 2018.

Demonstrable public support will be key to the necessary fund-raising efforts once negotiations commence for a suitable permanent home, once identified. Progress is being made on this front and the group hopes to make an announcement regarding the likely outcome in the not too distant future. Once again, a big thank-you to you, the community, for all your support.

Ian Richards, Chair.

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BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Proudly present another Pop up museum in Blairgowrie Library 20th – 22nd July Saturday 20th open 2-5pm Sunday/Monday open 10.30 – 5pm

Free entry

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Blairgowrie Rattray and District Genealogy Centre Vanished Occupations in Blairgowrie and Rattray When researching Family Histories at the Genealogy Centre, we often come across the now vanished occupations of ancestors who had worked in the Blairgowrie and Rattray area. For many people, the hours were long, the working conditions harsh, the wages poor and life must have been hard. Vanished occupations in the mills along the Ericht included: Tenters – who tended to and repaired looms Hecklers – who separated coarse flax fibers with a toothed hackle or comb Callenderers – who pressed the jute through rollers Scavengers – who collected up loose bits from under the looms on the jute mill floor (a job often done by young people) Piecers – who joined together threads broken by spinning Blaxters – who were bleachfield workers Half-timers – young people who worked a morning part shift in the mill, went to school for a couple of hours, and then returned for another part shift in the mill In other walks of life, we come across vanished occupations, such as: Cordwainers – who were makers of leather boots and shoes Costermongers – or street sellers of fruit and vegetables Portioners – who were owners of a piece of land Pendiclers – or sub-tenants with a small holding of farm land Leeries – or lamp lighters Girnalmen – who were in charge of a meal store or granary Mendicants or Gaberlunzies – alternative titles for people who made a bare living as a beggar Cadgears or Cadgers – who were travelling dealers and carriers Of course this is just a sample of the fascinating vanished local occupations we encounter.

Researching ancestors’ livelihoods adds depth to Family Histories and provides insight into past generations experiences. Why not come and visit us at the library, who knows who you may find in your family tree.

ALWAYS WANTED TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT YOUR FAMILY HISTORY? The Genealogy Centre Volunteers can help.

Come in and see us at Blairgowrie Library any Tues, Weds or Thurs from 2.00 to 4.00pm or Saturday Morning from 10.30 to 12.00 noon.

CONTACT US - by email at blairgowrielibrary@culturepk.org.uk or blairgowriegenealogy@hotmail.co.uk Or by telephone on 01250 871305 If you can spare 2 hours a week, why not come and join us as a Volunteer.

Please send us your contact details, or come in and see us.

The Geneaology Centre is part of Visit Scotland’s Ancestral Welcome Scheme.

To find out more visit: www.scottishancestraltourism.scot Page 22

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

CONSTABULARY DUTY TO BE DONE

by Alisdair Drummond, Retired Chief Inspector, Tayside Police and Perth & Kinross Constabulary Up until the early 1800s throughout Scotland the responsibility for dealing with civil disturbances fell to the military authorities of each area, resulting in local forces of volunteer militiamen being formed to keep the peace. This was the case in Perth where the population at that time numbered around 17,000. However the effectiveness of the town’s peacekeeping squad was called into question when, following a riot, they were the butt of ribald jokes labelling them as ‘more distinguished for their rotundity than speed of foot’. It was in such an atmosphere of lawlessness that in 1811, with Parliamentary approval, a City police force was set up in Perth and by 1812 the erection of a proper jail and court house had begun, the capital and running costs of which were shared by both the City and County of Perth.

However, the City and the County Police continued to operate as independent forces for another 150 years, until 1964 when they amalgamated to form Perth & Kinross Constabulary.

By the mid-1800s the County had been divided into Sections but by 1848 the Blairgowrie Division’s Headquarters were in Rattray because Blairgowrie Town Council refused to tolerate the County’s ‘interference’. The Bailies continued to operate the Burgh force until 1876, with a strength of one officer on 24-hour duty to cover the steadily growing population.

However, these two separate police establishments did not work well together as circumstances dictated that the County officers were often required to deal with more serious incidents in the town. As Blairgowrie expanded and became more populated by incoming labour forces, even that eminent journal the Blairgowrie Advertiser turned its big guns on the Town Council because of the “lawlessness and degeneracy which was rampant in the Burgh”. The Burgh Bailies’ response was to increase its policemen from one to two! But the tide was flowing too strongly against them and in 1876 the Town Council agreed to hand over the policing to the County force, which initially provided an Inspector and two constables who lived and were stationed within the town.

Over the next 100 years the Police presence in Blairgowrie grew substantially, peaking around the time of Regionalisation in 1975. However, the apparent absence of conspicuous and reasuring police presence in our streets today would tend to indicate that Blairgowrie is in a similar predicament to our forebears of the 1800s!!

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Would you like to get your children outdoors and off their game consoles or social media?

Do you enjoy exploring new places and finding secret “treasures”?

Do you enjoy that thrill of finding something “secret” that few people know about?

Would you like to explore some local history or interesting places?

If your answer to any or ALL of the above is yes, then I have the perfect new hobby for you and your family …

GEOCACHING! Have I piqued your interest?

Good … Have a look at WWW.GEOCACHING.COM and join up as a basic member for free (premium membership costs about 50 pence a week). If it appeals to your sense of adventure then download the free official app on your smartphone and start exploring some of the exciting places on your own doorstep or near your workplace. Maybe even plan a road trip, trek, bike ride or even simply experience a superb way to explore where you go on your next holiday anywhere on the planet except North Korea.

Geocaching began in 2000 and has been a much loved and popular pastime by most people that discovered it ever since. Everyone can get involved in geocaching, from toddlers to octogenarians, the super fit to less mobile, the hobby is adaptable to your needs. I only discovered the hobby in 2015 and I have a relatively modest total of around 550 finds, but many others have found thousands upon thousands of these secretly hidden containers … There are currently over three million geocaches hidden around the world in over 190 countries. There’s even a geocache on the International Space Station! Below is a pictures of a happy cacher. Also, above shows some of the 500 geocaches hidden within 10 miles around Blairgowrie & Rattray.

Many of us locals know of The Cateran Trail, but only we geocachers know about the many geocaches hidden along the route. The muggles (non-geocachers) who walk that trail every year know nothing of them, nor do they know about the one in the local library, or the ones in Davie Park … Very few of the local inhabitants even know that there’s a library just a mile or so off the A923 Blairgowrie to Coupar Angus road … Do you know where it is?

I only learned about it once I’d become a geocacher.

Geocaching is far more exciting and much more fun than I can convey in a short article like this, but there is a wealth of information on the geocaching.com webpages and many other websites which explain the hobby in greater detail. There are even a number of Facebook groups dedicated to helping people get into the game and I will shamelessly plug my own worldwide group called Geocaching - How To? … If you are interested in learning more, come along and join the mixture of 1,400 other newbies, intermediate and experienced geocachers who are willing to help you get started.

Ron Forbes Page 24

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Blairgowrie Mobile Foot Clinic

Treatment in the comfort of your own home for: Nail Cutting Corns and Calluses Fungal Infections and Athletes Foot Ingrown Toenails

For all your Foot-care requirements contact:

MADELEINE MCINTOSH Registered Foot-Health Practitioner Est 2007.

01250 872005 or 07904 382840 S.A.C Dip

FHTP

FHPP

Page 25

News & Articles

Lipreading classes in Perthshire In October 2018, twenty-eight hard of hearing students joined lipreading classes in Blairgowrie and Perth. The classes have been exciting, fun and friendly.

During the past twenty weeks, students received talks from Debbi Wallace, Action on Hearing Loss (AOHL) who spoke about equipment that assists them with their hearing loss and helps them in their homes, from flashing doorbells, vibrating smoke alarms, television devices and much more; although there is a one-off delivery charge the equipment is free.

Other visits have included the Community Police, with whom we discussed how the hard of hearing students find it difficult to walk on paths when cyclists approach from behind, as they can’t hear their bells.

Just before Christmas Perth & Kinross Provost, Dennis Melloy and his wife, Libby, came to the Blairgowrie class and joined in signing along with the Dundee based Signed Songs R Us choir, who signed along to a number of popular Christmas songs.

Michelle of Deaf link came and talked about advocacy and her organisation, where they can assist with appointments and completing forms /bills etc.

Another interesting talk was by Rhona Campbell from Action on Hearing Loss, who talked to the class about the organisation and the help it offers to the hard of hearing.

The latest talk was from Chris Smith, the Local Authority Fire Liaison Officer, who gave out an excellent presentation on fire safety and C.P.R. Not only have the students had many visitors to their classes, they have also invited their own friends and families to join in a lipreading class, so they could appreciate some of the difficulties faced by the hard of hearing.

Students have also learnt, how their hearing aids work, speech movements, lip patterns, working with their class partners on solving problems, pairs exercises, quick recognition exercises, British Sign Language and much, much more.

In addition to benefitting from all these lessons, speakers and services the classes have enabled people with similar problems to meet together and discuss what having a hearing loss means to them and their families and share solutions for shared problems.

To run lipreading the Blairgowrie classes donations have been gratefully received from Proctors Insulation Blairgowrie, Rotary Club Blairgowrie, Masonic Lodge, Co Ann Janitorial Supplies Blairgowrie, Isabelle McInally, Lightscape Creations, Greggs Bakery, Scotmid, the See Hear Project of Perth & Kinross Council and Tesco’s Bags for Help. The students too have raised money by holding two raffles, one of which was held in Blairgowrie Tesco’s in February.

The Lipreading classes in Perth have been supported by Deaf Action.

Classes stop for a summer break in mid-June and will hopefully start again in October for another thirty weeks. However, this will only be possible if enough donations are received to keep the classes going. If you would like to donate or would be interested in joining a class near you, contact Susan Brown on 01250 872861 / 07940333924 or susanbrown1957@hotmail.com Facebook – Perthshire Lipreading Page 26

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Latest News on Mary’s Meals in Blairgowrie The Blairgowrie and District Mary’s Meals Support Group would like to thank everyone who has supported us since we started in 2009. Thanks to your generous support our group has raised £74,745.40 so far. The charity, which started in 2002 now works in 18 different countries and is now feeding 1.45 million children every school day.

Many of our schools have been damaged by the cyclone in Africa but where possible they have helped with the relief work, where the families have been fed and the children’s education has been interrupted as little as possible.

The school we currently support in Kankhunkwe, in Northern Malawi, requires £8,000 a year to feed all the children who attend. We are always looking for back Packs and items to fill them. A collection box will be at the Annual Coffee Morning on Saturday 29th June in Blairgowrie Town Hall from 10am to 12 noon. Felt tip pens, cardigans and jumpers are not required in the packs nor are draw string bags suitable. Stalls will include crafts, plants, cake and candy, bric-a-brac, books, and a Harry Potter theme with the usual tombola and bottle stalls and the delicious home-made baking with your tea and coffee. Please make an effort to come and support us and make it a bumper event.

For the month of July many of the shopkeepers in Blairgowrie have kindly agreed to help us run a competition. This will be to spot the “odd item” in the shop windows. Details and entry forms will be available at the Coffee Morning and from the 1st July entry forms will also be available from R. Doig and Sons and Something Special Flowers. Completed entry forms can be posted in a box in either of these shops.

If you require a speaker for your event or meeting, or anyone wishing to join the group and support us in any way would be most welcome.

Contact us on 01250 875086 or morarcrafts@talktalk.net Charity No SC022140

Bra Donations ‘You are invited to donate new or ‘gently worn’ bras for Smalls for All to a collection point in Coupar Angus! The bras can be any size, including sports and nursing bras, but not teen, cropped-top style or bikini tops. By ‘gently worn’ they mean bras that are in good condition and still have good wear left in them.

The photograph shows Jean Campbell, a member of Soroptimist International Perth, delivering a collection of donated lightly-used bras and new pants to Smalls for All’s ‘Pantagon’ Headquarters in Livingston

Soroptimist International Perth is delighted to support the efforts of Smalls for All which partners with Freedom from Fistula Foundation and Kenya Children’s Home making a big difference for women & girls in Kenya, Malawi, Sierra Leone and Madagascar, helping those living in orphanages, slums, internally displaced persons’ camps and schools as well as those in hospital suffering from medical conditions like obstetric fistula The Local Collection Point for lightly used bras and new pants for the next couple of months is at: Top Style Hairdresser, Leslie Street, Blairgowrie – courtesy of Jennifer’ Page 27

VIBRANT LESLIE STREET ART TRAIL IS BACK FOR A SECOND YEAR The popular Leslie Street Art Trail is back for a second year and this year’s showcase promises to be even bigger and better than before.

Organised by Blairgowrie-based artist Wendy Mackey, the Leslie Street Art Trail comprises a series of exhibitions in shop windows in the east Perthshire town during the nine-day Perthshire Open Studios celebration of art in September.

Wendy Mackey, who, after a lifetime of working with cattle, now paints farm animals, capturing their quirky personalities, curiosity and wilfulness on large dramatic canvasses, is working with local artists and businesses and organisations on the displays.

Details about each of the participating artists and directions to their Perthshire Open Studios venues will be displayed in the windows, along with treasure trail clues, to encourage visitors to look in each window.

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, this year’s trail will feature over 50 artists exhibiting in nearly 30 businesses and organisations in the town.

As well as Leslie Street, businesses in the Wellmeadow and Upper Mill Street are also involved this year.

Wendy first had the idea for the displays following a visit to Galashiels in the Scottish Borders during the Common Riding when all the shops are decorated in the colours of the town, displaying memorabilia and photographs.

With the backing of Perthshire Open Studios, she contacted businesses and was delighted by the response with nearly 20 signing up to be involved in a similar showcase dedicated to artists in Blairgowrie. Blairgowrie Library, the One Voice Community Office and the Blairgowrie and Rattray Development Trust offices were also keen to get on board.

Each window, although showcasing individual artists, had a coordinated look, with a small version of the colourful Perthshire Open Studios bunting, sponsored by the One Voice Page 28

Volunteer Association, and matching acrylic sign holders displaying the artists’ contact details and directions to their venue.

Wendy explained: “The idea was that, because so many of the Perthshire Open Studios venues are based in the countryside and suburbs, the showcase windows will bring Perthshire Open Studios right into the town centre and hopefully encourage more people to visit studios outwith the town.

“The windows of the businesses will be decorated with a selection of unique artworks including several different styles of paintings, ceramics, needle-felting, crochet, knitting, weaving, silver jewellery, wood carving, sculpture and fused glass.

“There will also be an exhibition in Blairgowrie Library of art work from pupils at Blairgowrie High School, who will also be creating a footprint trail around the route and decorating the area with recycled materials.

“The idea is to develop mutually beneficial collaborations between businesses and local artists in the area and encourage more visitors to the town and the artists’ studios during Perthshire Open Studios.

“We also want to encourage the local community to get involved and will be offering free art workshops for various groups such as children with additional support needs, older people and mothers and toddlers.

“We’re looking forward to another inspiring celebration of local artistic talent.”

Perth and Kinross Provost Dennis Melloy, president of Perthshire Open Studios Glenys Andrews, artist and founder of the Trail Wendy Mackey, and Brigadier Sir Mel Jameson. Photo courtesy of Clare McMicking/CraicN Communications.

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Understanding the role of traditional media about human-beaver interactions in the Tayside Written by Nathalie Obrusnik

The beaver. Most of us know it as a mystique, cute and fascinating animal. Yet, not everyone is charmed by this species as conflicts between humans and wildlife often start when there is competition for food or space. Being a forest- and nature conservationist and a student with a deep passion for nature it felt only natural to study human-beaver interactions in Scotland.

My name is Nathalie Obrusnik, 23 years old and I live in the Netherlands. For my MSc thesis I went to Scotland to listen to the diversity of views about the beaver debate. I compared these views (25 interviews) with Scottish newspapers (55 articles) to see how the beaver debate is represented in the articles. This is important to know because the media has a major influence on people’s thoughts.

I talked with famers, landowners, fishermen, ghillies but also with nature organisations, a tour guide and a councillor. I found out that the real problems are not only visible on the surface (impacts of wildlife on land), but that their roots go much deeper. Most of the people I interviewed highlighted problems such as: the way the beaver was reintroduced, the impacts on their land, the lack of governmental support and management. Other people showed their concerns about topics such as the unofficial beaver killings. Interactions changed into conflicts due to the lack of communication between the government, nature organisations and the people in the field. Previous studies on the portrayal of human-wildlife conflicts by the media often found negative portrayals of ‘conflict’ species. This study found that the Scottish media highlights both the positive influences of having the beaver back in the country but also highlights the problems related to the human-beaver interactions.

Most of the discussion about beaver related articles concerned the beaver’s impact on the environment, the lack of beaver protection and the notifications of unofficial beaver culling.

Furthermore, the need for a proper management plan is mentioned finally although the reintroduction was referred to as an illegal process and a wildlife crime, the establishment of the beaver in the Tayside was in some cases described as a milestone. Of course some newspapers were more positive than others.

My main message based on this study is that we need to cooperate with each other. Everyone has their own worldviews, ideas and emotions. Yet, if we are only willing to take and not to give than we will never find common ground. The government needs to help the people whose income depend on their land and is ‘damaged’ by the beaver. Yet, we need to take into account as well that our precious nature is vanishing in a world taken over by humans. We need to embrace nature and all kind of species because, we all have a right to live.

If you would like to read more and receive a copy of my thesis please contact me on Nathalie-obrusnik@hotmail.com.

Blairgowrie Scottish Country Dance Club We meet every Wednesday in the Town Hall at 7.30pm and have benefited from our advertisement in the Hub magazine with new people attending. We are preparing for our Annual Open Dance on Friday 1st March 2019 when we will be dancing to the music of Lindsay Weir.

The programme is on the Web site. Our final dance is a dinner dance and will be for members and guests on Wednesday 27th March. For more information we now have a web site: www.blairgowriescottishcountrydancing.co.uk where any change to normal programmes will be notified or contact the secretary on 01250 873272.

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News & Articles

Blairgowrie Parish Church Weekly Sunday Morning worship is at 11am and for those with very young families who want to attend morning worship there is a well equipped and supervised creche from 10.50am.

Monthly Sunday Family Worship is offered at 9.30am. in the Church Hall and for families with younger children we have a regular Messy Church – a very important part of our Sunday activities. Also we have a toddler’s group called ‘Jump for Joy’ held monthly on Saturday mornings in the Church Hall.

A warm welcome awaits everyone on a Sunday morning. After 11am worship a ‘cuppa’ in the Church Hall provides company, laughter – and a listening ear! Our monthly charity soup lunches are also popular and all are welcome.

Our various organisations are well supported and include Guild, Boys’ Brigade, Craft Group and Social Club providing badminton, bowls and dominoes.

Please see our website: www.blairgowrieparishchurch.org.uk for details of all our church activities and contact telephone numbers.

We look forward to a special service in our Church at 6.30pm on Thursday 20th June. This service will see the Induction of our new Minister the Reverend Benjamin Abeledo. Mr Abeledo is currently a Parish Minister in Edinburgh, and previously had 16 years service as a Military Chaplain in the British Army. He is Spanish by birth and has also served as a paratrooper in the Spanish Legion.

There is a warm welcome if you wish to attend any of the above services or activities.

Contact Alisdair Drummond, Session Clerk, on 01250 873207.

Rattray Church, Church of Scotland.

Service time: Sundays, 11.15.

We warmly welcome all to join us in worship at our pretty church with its Italianate style clock tower and beautiful stained glass windows. Contact: Rev Linda Stewart (01250) 872462

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BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

BERRYPICKERS’ CEILIDHS 2019 This year the churches will only be putting on two ceilidhs for the berrypickers as there is uncertainty about how many student pickers there will be this year.

The ceilidhs will be on 3rd and 17th July, in Blairgowrie Parish Church Hall.

We know that these will be enjoyable as students look forward to them from year to year, and they become quite proficient at the dances.

A number of church members help in preparing the refreshments and assisting with the dancing. If you would like to be involved wjith this please contact Moira Somerville on 01250 875240.

Your help will be appreciated and it should be a fun evening.

St Stephen’s R C Church, John Street, Blairgowrie Parish Priest: Gregory Umunna, M.A., Ph.D. Telephone: 01250-872171 E.mail: peacegreg2002@yahoo.com Masses: Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 10 a.m. Wednesday 7 p.m.

Saturday - Vigil Mass 6.30 p.m. Sunday - 11 a.m.

St. Luan’s, Alexandra Street, Alyth - Sunday Mass 9.30 a.m.

St Catharine’s Scottish Episcopal Church, George Street, Blairgowrie We are currently without a rector since Very Revd Kenny Rathband, our previous rector, moved to become the new rector of another charge. At present services are taken by Revds David and Janice Cameron and our Lay Reader Lis Burke.

Revds David and Janice Cameron can be contacted for pastoral assistance on 01250-873272. The church can also be contacted via the office in St Catharine’s Centre, on 01250-874583.

The main service each Sunday is a celebration of Sung Eucharist at 9.30am, although whenever there is a fifth Sunday in the month all our local congregations join in a shared service at 10.30am which rotates around the churches.

There is also a short, said Communion service at 11.30am each Wednesday.

More details are available on our website: https://www.abcsaints.co.uk

AW Joinery For All your Joinery Services: Home Improvements Fitted Kitchens Timber Decking Solid Wood / Laminate Floors 01250 870 693 / 07876 133 342 www.aw-joinery.com Page 31

GRANNY PAT’S SUMMER RECIPE Honey Gingerbread Another ‘blast from the past’! A very sweet treat indeed.

You will need: 100g self-raising flour 1 level teaspoon ground ginger 1 level teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 egg - beaten 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil A greased and lined 15cm or 18cm square cake tin.

50g honey 50g golden syrup 50g caster sugar 2 tablespoons milk a pinch of salt

For the icing: (optional) 1 heaped tablespoon of sieved icing sugar, approx. 6 teaspoons syrup from a jar of stem ginger, 1 bulb of stem ginger chopped into small pieces.

Add the flour, salt, ginger, cinnamon and caster sugar to the honey and syrup. Mix in the beaten egg, milk and vegetable oil, beating it thoroughly. Put into the tin and place into an oven heated to 190 degrees (170 fan or Gas 5) for 30 mins. When nearly cold, mix the icing sugar with enough of the ginger syrup to make an icing loose enough to drizzle from a teaspoon. Drizzle over the cake then scatter the chopped ginger over the top.

THE ERICHT SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE GROUP The Ericht Scottish Country Dance Club are holding the following dances during in the Summer: Teacher: Carol Bisset Contact detail is available on the website: erichtdance.co.uk or Jan McHugh 01250 870975

CLASSES 1st October to 17th December 2019 7th January to 24th March 2020 Beginners Class Tuesday 7.00 - 8.30pm General Class Tuesday 7.30 - 9.30pm

Friday 10th May Summer Dance

Blairgowrie Town Hall.

Cost £6 Non dancers £2.50

Band Jim Lindsay.

Tea and biscuits at interval.

Friday 5th July Summer Dance

Blairgowrie Town Hall.

Cost £6 Non dancers £2.50

Band Lindsay Weir.

Tea and biscuits at interval.

Friday 16th August Summer Dance

Blairgowrie Town Hall.

Cost £6 Non dancers £2.50

Band David Oswald.

Tea and biscuits at interval.

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BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Blairgowrie Dental Care were delighted to be invited along to Blairgowrie High School last month to deliver a presentation on the dangers of fizzy drinks.

The pioneering staff at the school, led by Deputy Head teacher Mr Dingwall, have recently introduced a ban on energy drinks and are looking to extend it to include fizzy drinks so we were very keen to show the students some of the reasons why we think this is such a good idea.

A few years ago, we produced a display board entitled ‘Think before you drink’ which showed a variety of soft drinks and the amount of sugar contained within them. It proved very popular when displayed in the practice and even more so when shared on our social media pages. We therefore had groups of the Blair High students make their own versions of the display. The students collected empty cans of drinks that they regularly consume, then measure out the sugar content to create eye catching posters.

This hopefully will encourage them to stop and think about their choice of drink in the future, as often the sugar in drinks is overlooked.

As well as high sugar content, we were also keen to show how fizzy drinks are also damaging due to their acidity. Drinks are made ‘fizzy’ by dissolving carbon dioxide in them and this chemical reaction creates carbonic ACID which is erosive to teeth.

Regular drinking of acidic drinks causes your teeth to wear away causing sensitivity and short teeth, even if the drinks contain no sugar! This can often be confusing with many people thinking they are taking the healthy option by drinking ‘diet’ drinks.

To try and demonstrate this to the school we made up a game entitled ‘Play your pH Cards Right’ where the students had to guess which drinks were higher or lower in acidity.

It was great fun; each drink was measured with the science department’s pH meter and if five were guessed correctly then a prize was awarded. As suspected, there was a lot of confusion initially about which drinks were the most acidic but after a few rounds and a good discussion, the students were winning plenty of prizes.

We had a great time with the students and were very impressed by their enthusiasm and genuine interest in learning about our topic.

We are very much looking forward to future collaborations with the school.

If you have any questions regarding acidity and the sugar content of fizzy drinks or anything else tooth related, then please speak to your dentist at your next check-up.

If you are needing a dentist, we are currently registering NHS and private patients. Please call us on 01250 875 136 to arrange an appointment.

Neil Rutherford Page 33

Although our weekend Festival takes place in October, BOOKMARK is always keen to keep reading and books in the news. Each year we aim to invite leading writers to Blairgowrie to talk about their new books, or run particular events, and we try to cover as wide a range of subjects as possible. We bring quality speakers and writers – both well-known and new - to our beautiful part of Perthshire and over the years we have impressed our guests with our friendly, professional organisation. We’ve been delighted to have been described by our writers as ‘The Best Small Book Festival in Scotland’.

We now have four prestigious Patrons who all accepted our invitation to be part of BOOKMARK with delight: Fiona Armstrong has been our Patron since BOOKMARK’s inception and continues to support us. She is well-known as a television journalist and her duties now include being Lord Lieutenant of Dumfries. She writes for Country Life and is the author of several books, including ones about fly-fishing and Scottish clans.

Magnus Linklater CBE is one of Scotland’s leading writers. He has worked for most of the UK’s leading newspapers and has been the editor of The Scotsman and The Times in Scotland, for which he continues to be a major contributor. Apart from writing he is also very interested in the arts in general and is currently the Chair of Horsecross n Perth.

Ken Cox comes from a family of renowned plantsmen and he is one of the world’s leading botanists and expert in rhododendrons. His firm and garden centre at Glendoick, between Perth and Dundee, is his base for not just a dazzling display of plants but from where he often travels to, among other places, south-east Tibet and India. Writer, lecturer, musician, adviser to national and international societies. His books include Woodland Gardening and Scotland for Gardeners Rosemary Goring ‘started out as an editor with W and R Chambers, godfathers of English dictionaries, but was lured into newspapers with the promise of free novels.’ She was the Literary Editor of Scotland on Sunday and The Herald, which she continues to write for as well as contributing to The Scottish Review of Books. She has two books of Scottish history published including Scotland: Her Story and two historical novels After Flodden and Dacre’s War.

Page 34

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

So far this year three guest writers have caught our imaginations: Olga Wojtas, a hit at last year’s October Festival, came to our AGM to entertain us with another tale of the hapless Shona McGonigle; Marion Duffy in April gave us a whole afternoon talking about being a writer in a novel-writing partnership and then she ran a successful creative writing workshop; and in May Douglas Skelton took us to Thunder Bay, his setting for a fast-paced and exciting thriller, and then turned us into a jury to decide on the outcome of a criminal court case.

Three more events are happening before our Festival in October. On 1 June at St Catharine’s Community Centre, Magnus Linklater, in conversation with Rosemary Goring will be talking about Scotland’s history and the chapters he has added to Fitzroy Maclean’s important book Scotland: A Concise History to bring it right up to date. History is his main interest as far as writing goes: his books include Great Scottish Lives; Bonnie Dundee: For King and Conscience Massacre: Story of Glencoe. He is also an excellent story-teller and this will be an afternoon packed with tales.

On July 20th Shaun Bythell, from the book lovers’ destination of Wigtown, is coming to help reveal the star-studded line-up that we have for our October Festival. Shaun’s highly entertaining book Diary of a Bookseller ran high on the best-selling book lists last year, and we are going to hear some enthralling tales of being a second-hand bookseller from the eagerly-awaited sequel. There will also be an extra special raffle at this Launch, as well as the renowned afternoon tea, and a chance to take advantage of the great ‘early bird’ ticket offers for October. Eleven events – from world-leading novelists to acclaimed folk musicians – will be taking place over the weekend of October 4-6 at Blairgowrie’s Community Campus and although we can’t yet reveal who is coming, we can promise that it will be opening with a session that will sell out very quickly…you have been warned!

Our final event before October comes to Alyth and will be a captivating afternoon of art and poetry. Gerda Stevenson returns to BOOKMARK to read poetry and present an illustrated talk on ‘The Art of Christian Small’ with Christian’s daughter Jenny Alldridge. Christian lived and worked in the Borders, painting luminous works which celebrated everyday life. She was a very private individual and so it was only after she died that many more of her paintings came to light. Jenny and Gerda have published a book of seventy paintings and Gerda has written poems, in the voice of Christian, to accompany some of these. Those of you who have heard Gerda at BOOKMARK before know that we are in for a very special event. Gerda is one of Scotland’s leading actors – as well as writing acclaimed poetry, being a talented musician and theatre director too. This is a rare opportunity to enjoy her singular talents.

The Stage is Set History, music, thrillers, memoirs, novels, crime fiction, poetry, nature writing and travel are all on October’s Festival menu.

Our motto is ‘Go with Flow’ and often there is nothing better at a book festival than doing simply that: going to listen to someone you’d never heard of or trying out a subject you didn’t think would interest you can so many times be the one event you remember. And if you’ve never been to a book event before, why not give us a try? We’re friendly, open to meeting new friends and offering time out to encounter new experiences. We look forward to welcoming you to BOOKMARK: we’re sure you won’t be disappointed.

Gail Wylie BOOKMARK Chair Page 35

News & Articles

Friendship Cafe In our 9th year, WOW.

Thursday mornings here in Balmoral Road Hall, Rattray between 10am to 11.30am is the place to be where things are very lively with song, dance or just have a blether and make friends.

So why not pay us a visit. The team would like to see you. Our entertainment looks good for the next few months. We have been averaging 75 at our mornings. The cafe has reached a landmark and in June we will be entering our 9th Year open every Thursday 52 Weeks of the year and it is a great achievement to all involved. Just wonder how many scones, cakes, biscuits, tea bags, jars of coffee we’ve gone through in that period.

A big Thank You to all who have done or handed in items for our morning cuppie!!!

Cheers for now Ally Muir (organiser) & the Team

Blair, Rattray and District Time Bank are looking for a new Chairperson.

If you would like to volunteer your time to support and lead our little community group please get in touch with Cat Mackay, on 07761233418. Come be part of our team.

THE

CLIMATE EMERGENCY means we all have to change the way we live– even here in Blairgowrie & Rattray

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REFUSE unnecessary packaging

REDUCE the amount of the earth’s resources that you use.

Garden Design Garden Makeovers Garden consuancy & advice Garden Maintenance 40 years experience Free no obligation estimates

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RE-USE Don’t just bin it, could someone else use it?

RECYCLE Could the materials be made into something new?

For further information find us at the community market or leave a question at the BRDT’s HEAT project.

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Safe Sanctuary

by Gordon Croll

As I write this gardening feature, I am inspired by all the floral delights that brighten up our spring gardens and in the Blairgowrie and Rattray area, we have some lovely gardens, as well as enchanting Bluebells in Darroch Wood.

It has been a particularly good spring for bloom, given the favourable weather which has allowed Camellias, Magnolias, Pieris, Rhododendron, as well as the many spring bulbs which feature in gardens and open spaces.

Many will be counting the days down for planting out their summer bedding schemes and containers, having lovingly grown on their own plants, while others will purchase their plants at the local garden centres.

Blair in Bloom has been beavering away throughout the autumn and winter and will no doubt have something special to display having been buoyed by their fantastic gold winning achievements last summer.

We all know the pleasures to be derived from gardening and most will appreciate the beauty to be found in and around gardens, however there are risks and dangers lurking, given the number of accidents that occur in what appears to be a safe sanctuary.

While not wishing to put a damper on things; great care should be taken when working with power tools, although any piece of equipment can be dangerous if not correctly used.

Gardening provides an opportunity for healthy exercise and is a good workout for most parts of the body and again; care must be taken not to cause strain through lifting heavy weights or lifting with poor posture and technique and ensure that the correct equipment is used for the task.

Slips, trips and falls are common accidents waiting to happen, especially if there are objects left around the garden, or where steps are loose and slippery.

Plants which are toxic or cause irritation can be extremely serious especially where children are involved, as it can be for pets as well.

Water features in gardens adds something rather special, but again can be fatal where young children are concerned. Features which avoid any depth of water; such as a thin film of water over a round stone or mill- wheel may be considered.

I must admit that my own garden is not as my wife would like it and there has been much debate as to what is required to make it safe for our grandchildren and is currently out of bounds and devoid of much horticultural interest. Although my own garden isn’t as we would like it, I look forward to seeing many more inspiring gardens as I go about my business in the town and farther afield.

Happy gardening and stay safe Page 37

News & Articles

“It’s good to get by but it’s better to hear well”

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BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

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News & Articles

WINE MEMORIES

by Keith Robinson

My interest in wine goes back a long time and I enjoy wines from many countries. Taste is so personal, a good wine to one person is not necessarily good for another but I have found that a wine means so much more to me if I have visited the area it comes from. I can picture the countryside and sometimes the actual vineyard. In our travels we have been to large and small wine growing areas but I’m going to highlight some of the interesting or more obscure places that trigger my memories.

Furthest from home, in the late 1990s New Zealand was already gaining a reputation for its Sauvignon Blanc mainly from Marlborough in the north of the South Island. In the deeper south in Otago near the tourist town of Queenstown the first plantings of a major expansion of the Pinot Noir vines was being undertaken. Right next to the remains of old “gold rush” mines. At that time the production from Otago was minimal but Central Otago is now a well-established region covering about 250 hectares and is the most southerly wine area in the world. Because of the protection from the mountains to the west the area has a true continental climate and when the expansion was started the aim was quality rather than volume. This has paid off as they now produce some of the most respected Pinot Noirs in the southern hemisphere.

Similarly, on a visit a few years later to Margaret River, south west of Perth, Australia, we found a young wine area with brand new wineries and visitor centres. It has grown equally fast and also with a view to quality, and is now a very well established and reputable Australian wine area.

Now to Europe: Many years ago Spain used to be a wine-lake country with too much wine of very poor quality. This has been transformed by exciting wines frequently using traditional Spanish grapes and not resorting too much to fashionable Page 40

international grapes. The sheer size of the wine regions of La Mancha and Valdepeñas was impressive but the much smaller region of Toro sticks in the mind more. We came across the small town of Toro - a town about the size of Blairgowrie - while driving west from the airport at Valladolid. Toro is North West of Madrid and on the river Duero, it has its own wine area named after the town. The grape variety is Tinto de Toro and although very closely related to Tempranillo it has unique qualities. The vines survived the root-feeding Phylloxera aphid outbreak in the 1860s that devastated European vines, so some of the Toro vines are 150 years old.

The variety is suited to the cold winters and hot summers of the area and was the chosen drink for Christopher Columbus on his trip to the “Indies” because one of the Queen’s advisors came from Toro.

Now France would need many articles to cover the diversity of its wine industry so I’ll Just mention two wine areas which, if you like strong full bodied wines, are well worth a try. They certainly impressed me. South west France has two red wine areas that stand out but aren’t well known. The city of Cahors is on the river Lot in country with rolling hills, many limestone outcrops and Bastide towns.

These are striking, fortified townships usually built on hills in medieval times and you can see them for miles. The Cahors wine used to be made of 100% Malbec grape. More recently some wineries are blending in a little Merlot or Tannat. It is very dark in colour and because of this is called the Black wine.

Further south in the gentle foothills of the Pyrenees is the village and wine area of Madiran. All the wine was originally made from 100% Tannat grape which is very high in Tannin. More recently some growers have blended the grape with small proportions of the Bordeaux grapes Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc to make the wine less astringent and more acceptable to the modern taste. By the way, Madiran is supposed to be good for the heart.

I hope these wine memories have illustrated how the enjoyment of a wine can be enhanced after a visit to the wine area.

Wherever your wines come from Enjoy!

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

‘NO BOUNDARIES’ Help Launch the New Cateran Ecomuseum!

A call out to our young folk to help create the opening programme The new Cateran Ecomuseum has just begun preparations for its formal launch programme later in the year in November.

Called ‘No Boundaries’ it is being co-produced with North East of North (NEoN) Scotland’s only digital arts festival based in Dundee, working with some of Tayside’s best artists and local young people from Alyth, Blairgowrie, Coupar Angus and Kirriemuir, all thanks to the support of the new East Perthshire Youth Alliance and DD8 in Kirriemuir.

The plan is to have three major outdoor installations in Alyth, Blairgowrie and at the Spittal of Glenshee ready for mid-November. Exactly what they will be is down to the imagination of our young folk but the focus will be on key Ecomuseum sites and experiences and will include working in partnership with the Hamish Matters Festival to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Hamish Henderson’s birth!”

We’re keen to make sure that as many young folk in Blairgowrie as possible know about the workshop opportunities we’ve set up with two set of amazing artists, so here are a few details: The Perthshire Poet Jim Mackintosh has just begun a 6 month residency and he’s offering regular workshops for young folk between 10 – 25 from now right through until the autumn.

Jim is taking as inspiration for his residency, the poems of the great Hamish Henderson, who was born in Blair and grew up at the Spittal. The reason for this is that this year is the 100th anniversary of Hamish’s birth and the Spittal installation will be focusing on him.

Poems written by young folk during the residency will be part of the No Boundaries public programme and the installation at the Spittal of Glenshee.

Dundee based digital artists Biome Collective whose spectacular 3D light show opened the V&A Dundee last September have also just arrived for a 6 month residency. Their workshops for young folk, also aged between 10 -25, will use everything from the new technological skills of computer games conceptualisation, understanding of software, hardware and programming, graphics, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, augmented reality, moving image and music/sound to re-imagine the culture, history and heritage of this very special part of Scotland. The possibilities for what they create together for the Alyth and Blairgowrie installations with all those amazing experiences will know No Boundaries!

Please check with SCYD for exact dates of all the workshops as they are moving around a bit in response to young folk’s availability.

Venues for the Biome Collective Workshops will be Blairgowrie & Rattray Development Trust’s home in Blairgowrie, and various venues in Blair and Alyth will be used for Jim’s workshops.

So if you are aged 10-25 or you know anyone aged 10-25 who is interested in getting involved then please help spread the word...

Page 41

News & Articles

***

Blairgowrie Players ***

As the days grow longer, make the most of it, plan your evening travel arrangements with Stagecoach this summer.

There is no shortage of activities across Tayside this summer for you, your friends and your whole family. Whether it is a relaxing evening dinner, enjoying an energetic night out in Dundee or working up at sweat in the gym, Stagecoach can get you there.

Visit the wonderful expansion of the Waterfront in Dundee where you can visit the RRS Discovery and adjoining museum, the stunning exhibits at the V&A or enjoy a night of culture at Perth Concert Hall and theatre. There’s plenty to see and do throughout Tayside this summer so the easiest thing to tick off your list, is planning your travel with Stagecoach!

With unlimited bus travel after 7pm, for just £3, there is nothing holding you back from a summer full of family excursions, fitness goals and non-stop laughs.

All tickets are available to buy from your driver. Dayrider and Megarider tickets can also be purchased on the Stagecoach Bus app.

Plan your journey at stagecoachbus.com or use the Stagecoach Bus app.

With the success of our Afternoon of One Act Plays behind us, we are now in rehearsal for our next production, the comedy ‘Allo ‘Allo, which will be onstage at Blairgowrie Town Hall on Wednesday and Thursday 14th & 15th August at 7.00pm, with a matinee performance on Sunday 18th August at 2pm. Listen carefully, I will say zis only once, what-a mistake-a to make-a it would be to miss the tales of the Fallen Madonna, an assortment of sausages and several Good Moanings! Come along and enjoy this popular play based on Series 4 of the television show. Tickets will be on sale both online and in The Card Gallery from July.

We are still hoping to bring a Youth production to the stage during the year but full details of this are still to be confirmed.

We can confirm that our Pantomime for 2019 will be Puss In Boots, running from Wednesday 4th to Sunday 8th December.

Further details of auditions and ticket sales for this will be in a future magazine and on social media.

We are off to Edinburgh with a Murder Mystery in June and later in the year we will bring a further new one to the fore, another of our annual fun shows which we are called on to repeat in various locations around Tayside.

New members, whether with a desire to be on stage or to work behind the scenes, are always welcome. If you would like to receive our quarterly newsletter, or if you have any further queries, please get in touch either on our Blairgowrie Players Facebook page or by emailing blairplayers@btinternet.com

Page 42

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

BREXFAST ANYONE?!

by Margaret Drummond

Some folks are calling Brexit ‘a dog’s breakfast’ As no-one seems to have a clue just what to do.

The MPs all need a tonic (with gin?)

And the situation’s chronic But Parliament’s like a human breakfast too.

The choices are all passed around the table With the ‘serial’ featured daily on TV. Although the seats are quickly taken The politicians save their bacon And want bread buttered on both sides with their tea.

At each sitting like hot sausages they sizzle, Faces red as burst tomatoes on a plate.

They don’t want eggs all in one basket, But hard or soft? – well just don’t ask it!

So scrambled looks like being the nation’s fate.

Meanwhile the population’s feeling sicker And antacid sales are really on a roll.

As politicians bump their gums But only refluxed thinking comes, Britain’s Brexit indigestion takes its toll.

COMICAL CREATURES

Spare ribs.

What do skeletons barbecue?

Because it hasn’t a leg to pull.

Why can’t you fool a snake?

Dinosores.

What do prehistoric monsters call their aches and pains?

To get tweetment.

Why do sick birds go to hospital?

Because it’s always spotted.

Why can a leopard never hide?

Page 43

Community Groups

Eastern Perthshire Schools & Community Health & Wellbeing Learning Festival & Strategy

The schools of Eastern Perthshire, along with a wide range of partners have worked together over the past nine months to create a shared vision and strategy to improve Health and Wellbeing (HWB). Organised and led by Andy Dingwall and L-J Grant from Blairgowrie High School, and Craig Brown from Rattray Primary School, this strategy was launched at the Eastern Perthshire Schools & Community HWB Learning Festival in February. The learning festival brought together nearly 300 professionals from across all schools in the Blairgowrie High School catchment area together with a range of other PKC teams and local partners including Police Scotland, NHS, Eastern Perthshire Youth Alliance and others.

Delegates were welcomed by Bev Leslie, Head Teacher at Blairgowrie High School, before Deputy First Minister, John Swinney delivered the keynote address. Mr Swinney emphasised the importance of HWB as a key priority for education and also noted the importance of having the voices of children and young people heard.

Eighteen different workshops took place over the course of the day covering each of the four priorities of the Eastern Perthshire HWB Strategy: mental wellbeing and resilience; sleep; physical health and diet; communication and engagement.

An exhibitor marketplace was open throughout the day with delegates having the opportunity to see displays about how local schools have been taking forward HWB and the opportunity to meet and hear about a range of partners and organisation who can support the strategy.

Under the hashtag #EPHWB the event was trending on Twitter throughout the day. Evaluations of the event were overwhelmingly positive as both a learning opportunity, a chance to consider and reflect on practice and in terms of having a plan for moving forward. The day was helped to be a success in no short measure down to the support of a team of technical and support staff, along with a fantastic group of young people – 30 BHS pupils were in attendance to

Above: The Learning Festival attracted around 300 attendees.

Right: Bev Leslie (Head teacher) and Andy Dingwall (Depute Head and Chair of the Eastern Perthshire HWB Strategic Group) with the team of pupil helpers.

Page 44

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

take care of delegates, speakers and guests and they were a credit to the school.

Launching this strategy is an important first step in what will be a five year plan to improve Health and Wellbeing in our schools. This action plan also has as a central feature the development of a ‘one stop shop’ website which aims to provide resources and materials for professionals as well as support materials for children/young people and their parents and carers.

Andy Dingwall was keen to stress that health and wellbeing underpins all learning in school. This initiative aims to ensure that young people in East Perthshire develop the knowledge and understanding, skills, capabilities and attributes which they need for mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing now and in the future. This is a 5 year plan but the organisers feel that this was an extremely positive start.

High School Website - www.blairgowriehs.org.uk

GREASE IS THE WORD

Blairgowrie High School will be performing their version of the ever-popular musical Grease at the school on the19th and 20th June.

Under the directorship of Art Teacher Joanne Petrie, this production has been given its very own Blairgowrie edge with a vibrant young cast who are hoping to bring verve and vitality to this classic musical. Seats at the performance are likely to be very limited but watch our website or twitter feed nearer the time to find out how you can join in the fun.

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BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

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BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

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

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BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

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BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Page 53

Sports & Activities

www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/blairgowrieLTCd Blairgowrie Tennis Club is a vibrant inclusive club with a membership of over 180 players from age three playing on the best facilities in the county.

The club began on Lochy Street next to the bowling club with only one court. In 1921 the club moved to Coupar Angus Road where there were three blaes courts which often flooded for days following heavy rain. Three years ago the club sold the site to McCarthy Stone and built five new all-weather courts at the J. J. Coupar Recreation Park.

The club decided on a low maintenance polymeric surface, which can be used all year (apart from very cold frosty, snowy days). Top quality lighting has also been installed which is easily controlled by a phone app.

The club has a comprehensive competitive programme and takes part in both local and regional tennis competitions with eleven adult teams and three junior teams.

A fully established coaching programme is available with three level 3 and one level 2 coaches, all developed through the club. Players from age three have coaching times and details of these can be found on the club website.

A programme of social events is organised annually both on the courts and at local venues.

There are social club tennis events 4 times weekly. American style tournaments and parent and child competitions are held with BBQs in the summer. The annual quiz night in May at Blairgowrie Bowling Club is a well-attended event, as is the annual dinner in November at the Dalmore Inn. Membership is available for adults and children and can be paid by monthly direct debit.

Further information is on the website.

Visitors are very welcome at the club and courts can be booked through the Clubspark website. www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/blairgowrieLTC Page 54

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

More News from the Strathmore Cycle Network I thought I would start on a personal note this time. I didn’t learn to cycle till I was in my twenties (a long story) and have never been confident on two wheels. In fact, until recently I hadn’t been on a bike in decades. When the new track opened, I invested in an electric bike and am discovering whole new parts of our area that I hadn’t appreciated before. In years past I might have run the new routes and I may yet walk them but for me cycling has the benefits of being able to travel longer distances, explore further and enjoy the wonderful countryside around us. At a time when we are all waking up to the potential threats of our changing climate, driving less and travelling actively more makes complete sense.

I have heard from lots of people how much they appreciate the access the new track gives them to other parts of Strathmore. I know that the lack of signs is still a problem for many.

They are being made in early May and should be in place by the time you read this.

Of course, the aim is to have a network of tracks and quiet roads which we can all use safely to travel locally – to school, to work or just to be out in nature. The next stage is from Coupar Angus to the Bendochy crossroads. This has involved two issues on which the SCN group has consulted people.

The first was the proposal to change the Couttie Bridge to a single lane carriageway for vehicles, creating a lane for non-motorists. There was an on-line survey advertised through our very own Blairie and a survey in the Community Market. Both produced very similar results – roughly 72% of respondents were in favour of this change. The Community Council debated this and took a vote: the majority were in favour of the change. Officers in PKC are now engaged in designing all the necessary safety features.

The second issue has been finding an acceptable route from the centre of Coupar Angus to the waterworks at the bottom of the hill. Thanks to funding from Sustrans, it has been possible to employ a firm with community engagement expertise which has carried out an extensive programme of consultation events and activities throughout the town. At the time of writing, the outcome of this is not clear. Please watch for news of this in the Blairie.

Alyth development Trust has recently secured a grant from the Paths for All - Smarter Choices, Smarter Places Open Fund. This will be used to help us develop usage across the whole cycle paths network increasing journeys and awareness of sustainable travel choices.

One final development: the small group of volunteers from each of the three Development Trusts who are working to make these safe routes a reality have realised that we need a website and a social media presence. This is in hand and should be in place by June.

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Sports & Activities

Blairgowrie Bowling Club The Blairgowrie Bowling Club is now 151 years old and going strong. Our members are enthusiastic about their bowling and have a full programme of competitions and friendly matches with other neighbouring clubs throughout the season with some members entering regional and national level competitions. We have a number of new members this year and would encourage anybody who would like to try bowling to come along on Monday afternoons and/or Friday evenings when they can have a go. We also have regular social events such as Friday bingo nights, fun days on the green for families and entertainment nights with a live band party planned for Hogmanay.

Social members are also very welcome at the club and we have a winter season of carpet bowling and games nights which give the chance to meet up with friends and get out of the armchair. Our clubhouse is very comfortable and members can drop in of an evening to enjoy a drink and a chat. The clubhouse is available to hire for parties and events at very reasonable rates to both members and non-members with the option of a bar being laid on if required.

For any further information please contact Jacki McCorkindale - secretary@blairgowriebc.co.uk or Phil Theaker - treasurer@blairgowriebc.co.uk

Rattray Tennis Club.

As Rattray Tennis Club in Middle Road Rattray opens for another successful season, it is at the same time celebrating its 99th year.

When it opened on 7th August 1920, it was a much different club to what it is today.

The club-house was made of wood, the courts were grass, and old wooden tennis racquets were the equipment of the day. Today the facilities consist of a well maintained brick built club-house with two blaes courts which are thought by the members and visiting players as heaven to play on. Floodlights have been added to permit play when natural light is poor. The older, heavier racquets have now been consigned to decorating the walls of the clubhouse and today players use sophisticated graphite racquets.

The oldest member is Willie Turner, who has been involved with Rattray Tennis Club for over seventy years. Willie tells many an interesting and heart-warming story about the Club and continues to assist with maintenance of the facilities.

Rattray Tennis Club serves the community very well with current members coming not only from Rattray but also from Blairgowrie, Alyth, Coupar Angus, Meigle and as far as the Dunkeld area. Current members say that it is such a friendly place to play, players come to enjoy the casual and welcoming atmosphere and to share play with those of all abilities.

The club nights are every Monday and Thursdays from 6.15pm onwards, and in addition the club participates every Tuesday, with four players, in the Regional Strathmore leagues. There are also several tournaments throughout the season catering for players of varying abilities, the emphasis being on enjoying playing the game at whatever level of play an individual may have.

Club president & secretary Alex Bruce said a mix of good facilities, very friendly members, and a well-run club behind the scenes combined to make Rattray an ideal place for anyone looking to join or try their hand at this sport. He said “We’ve got a wide range of ages and abilities— from kids at school to our oldest member who I believe is 87. There is also a good mix of men and ladies across the spectrum of abilities. Ideal for the mature player to come along at any time of the day, to enjoy the social or competitive side of tennis.

Page 56

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

Macnabs Opens New Office in Blairgowrie and Sponsors Blair Bolts Netball Team Macnabs, a leading law firm in Perthshire, has recently sponsored the Blair Bolts netball team, as it strengthens ties with the community and opens it’s new office in Blairgowrie.

Macnabs, which has been advising the people of Perthshire, Tayside and beyond since 1880 provides the full spectrum of legal advice, helping clients who are approaching a major life change such as marriage, divorce or adoption and need help managing their affairs; are purchasing, selling or leasing their property; or are involved in a dispute or commercial matter with which they need assistance, and opened a new office in Blairgowrie last month.

Susan Mackay who is an Associate in the Private Client Team, and also plays for the Blair Bolts, comments: “At Macnabs, our corporate social responsibility programme is an important part of who we are. We have a strong track record of supporting our local communities and helping causes that are close to people’s hearts, and it is great that we can help the local netball team as part of this.”

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Interviews & Contributors’ Articles

Cllr Bob Brawn

Scottish Conservative, Blairgowrie and Glens Ward When I wrote my last article, we were on the verge of announcing the budget for the coming year. Shortly afterwards, it was passed and thankfully many of the feared cuts in services did not materialise. However, a larger rise of 4% in Council Tax was necessary on this occasion.

As I’ve mentioned before, I’m always in favour of lower taxes but Council Tax is a little different. It is paid locally, collected locally and spent locally- on the services that we see every day. Bins being emptied, roads being repaired, public transport- the list goes on.

Our front line services have been maintained.

In addition, as you will know, funds totalling £400,000 were re-instated to the Blairgowrie Recreation Project enabling the much desired six-lane, 25m pool to be put back into the plans.

This Administration continues to support our communities and an important part of that was the introduction of the Community Investment Fund last year. A total fund of £50,000 was allocated to each ward to fund projects originating from the community with the final decision to approve being made by a panel made up of members of that community. Our ward received 13 deserving applications totalling £146,000 so difficult decisions had to be made.

I had the opportunity of chairing that panel and at no time had to make a casting vote.

I am pleased that projects throughout the ward benefited. Although already said, I would like thank the panel again for their time and patience as this was the first year of doing this.

Cllr Tom McEwan

Scottish National Party Blairgowrie and Glens Ward Speeding and driver behaviour are constant concerns within the community. There have been several developments which aim to help reduce these antisocial behaviours.

In Rattray on Hatton Road speed cushions Page 58

The proposed Westpark development is progressing with initial plans for the commercial area now in the public domain.

However, it is not expected to come before the Planning Committee prior to August. Understandably, many town centre businesses are concerned about the effect that this site will have on them and I would urge all residents to remember how well they serve the community and to continue to support them.

As I write, the much debated nursery extension at Rattray Primary School was approved yesterday. This will come as a disappointment for some but the school itself will receive a much needed refurbishment as part of the project. Yes, some playground area will be lost but the Planning Committee believed that the benefits to all the children outweighed this loss.

Vehicle activated signage, flashing your approach speed, continues to be rolled out across Perth and Kinross and I am pleased to see that they have now been installed in Bridge of Cally. And with a nod to energy conservation, all three are solar powered.

Further signage for Kirkmichael will hopefully follow this year. Reduced speeds have already been seen.

Community Speedwatch, allowing communities to play a part in reducing traffic speeds is to be piloted- most likely in Meigle and if successful over a six month period, it could be rolled out to other interested communities.

As always, good luck and Godspeed.

E-mail - BBrawn@pkc.gov.uk Mobile - 07557 815541

are to be installed and I am looking to get officers to agree to install them in Berrydale and Smithfield also, following the affirmative action taken by residents in these areas.

Speed activated cameras have been installed on Coupar Angus Road and Perth Road and more are included later in the council 5 year rolling program. The Community Speedwatch scheme allows volunteers to check vehicle speeds at designated locations BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

and forward the relevant details to Police who will carry out the appropriate checks and issue a follow up letter where necessary.

The Scheme is designed to reduce speeds in areas of concern and make drivers aware that excessive speed within posted limits is unacceptable.

Scottish Government’s Town Centre Fund is a grant to enable local authorities to stimulate and support economic investments which encourage town centres to diversify and flourish, creating footfall through local improvements and partnerships. Specifically, this fund will support town centres to be vibrant, accessible and enterprising places.

This could include re-purposing buildings for housing, retail, business, social and community enterprise, services, leisure, and culture, tourism and heritage. Council officers have been asked to look at the BRDT’s project to develop a heritage centre/ museum, utilising the library/council offices on Lesley Street in Blairgowrie as this would fit nicely with the grants criteria.

Following a meeting at the Community Campus with the Headteacher, Council Officers, Community Council, Traffic Warden and the Police, regarding road safety and parking, a consultation event was held at the Community Campus in February. The event was very well attended by parents, pupils and residents who live adjacent to the school.

Subsequently I have also been handing out

Cllr Caroline Shiers

Scottish Conservative, Blairgowrie and Glens Ward At the end of the Easter holidays I was delighted to attend the annual Blair in Bloom litter pick. Yet again there was a fantastic turnout of volunteers and thanks to everyone who gave up their Sunday morning to help.

The sheer quantity of rubbish collected is always concerning. It is great to see it gathered up but frustrating that there is so much of it. The area along the riverside to the south of the bridge is really in need of a clear up and ways to achieve this are being looked at.

the consultations forms on the door step when conducting street surgeries in the area.

There are several options on the table to ensure the safety of the pupils as they walk, cycle and get dropped-off near to the school.

The information from the consultation event will be used to select some of the options we have available to test and with the support of all those involved I think this issue will finally start moving in a positive direction.

There are many groups in the local area which do great community work and rely on volunteers to make Blairgowrie and Rattray a better place to stay and visit. Groups like Blair in Bloom, Illuminations committee, Braemar Day, Blairgowrie Highland Games, BRAN and many more, are always on the lookout for more people to get involved and help and it is certainly a great way for anyone to contribute to their community.

I hold regular open surgeries in the Rattray Connect on the last Thursday of every month from 7pm until 8.45pm, happy to discuss any issues you need my help and support with.

Contact Details: Email - tmcewan@pkc.gov.uk Mobile - 07557815540, Cllr Tom McEwan Facebook Page (https:// www.facebook.com/SNPBlairCouncil17/)

I am pleased to see that the vehicle activated signage around the town is working and hope that this will go some way to bringing speeds down. The installation of the pedestrian crossing on Welton Road is very welcome and is finally “off the list” having been discussed for more years that I can remember. The investment in road safety measures committed to in the council budget is delivering these improvements.

A 20mph zone will soon be installed around Rattray Primary School in response to concerns raised by parents and the wider community. I continue to work with Police Scotland and community groups such as our very active community council and the feedback from the consultation session at the Continued on next page Page 59

Campus regarding traffic will be put forward at another event to get further comment on the proposed safety measures there.

I recently had the pleasure of spending an afternoon visiting Newhill and St Stephens Primary Schools. The children there were engaged, interested and keen to chat about their schools and the town. Newhill recently received a glowing report from its inspection and it was good to be able to pass on thanks to staff for all their hard work. I look forward to visiting Rattray and Kirkmichael schools very soon. It is an absolute pleasure to spend time in our local schools meeting our younger residents and one of the definite highlights of being Convenor of Lifelong Learning.

I was concerned to hear about the closure of the Perth College facility in Blairgowrie and I am working with council officers to look at alternative options for adult education courses in the local area.

I have attended a number of meetings with representatives of the local business community in relation to the proposed

Pete Wishart MP

Scottish National Party Perth and North Perthshire I was pleased to see the first of the Blairgowrie berries hitting the shelves last month. Perthshire soft fruit is renowned across the country and I am always keen to do what I can to support local growers.

Whilst it is great to see the first of this year’s crop in the shops, there is a great degree of uncertainty about how much of this and future year’s crop will be able to get to our plates on time, because of the lack of a fit for purpose scheme to help our growers attract seasonal labour. I will continue to do what I can to support Perthshire growers and I will continue to lobby UK Ministers for a fit suitable scheme.

I was concerned to hear of the forthcoming closure of the Blairgowrie Learning Centre.

This centre is a great example of widening access to further education, as it offers a Page 60

Interviews & Contributors’ Articles Westpark Development. I would congratulate the Business Association on their proactive and positive approach and will work with them to do all we can to encourage shopping in the centre of the town and ensuring we have a vibrant town centre and riverside area.

Finally, the summer months bring lots of community events in and around the local area. There will be a family event at Loon Braes to showcase some exciting ideas to make more of this underused and very lovely area. Meetings are ongoing re the redevelopment of football facilities at Davie Park and this, coupled with works at Loon Braes look set to really raise the profile of this area.

As always I can be contacted on 01738 553990 (0) 01828 640181 (h) cshiers@pkc.gov.uk or by facebook message.

I can be contacted cshiers@pkc.gov.uk 01738 553990 (0) 01828 640181 (h) or by facebook or Twitter.

wide range of courses supported by tutors in Blairgowrie. It is there to offer specific support for those who need extra assistance and to provide an opportunity to those with a lifelong interest in learning, or those who want to brush up on skills and languages. I recently visited the centre to speak to those concerned about the impact of the closures.

I hope that Perth College University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) reconsiders this closure. The UHI model was designed to bring learning to communities and the closure flies in the face of that objective.

I welcome the launch of two new advice services from Perth Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB). Perth Citizens Advice have launched their Community Advice Project, which offers financial health checks, energy advice and help with benefit claims. They have also launched a telephone service specifically to help people with new Universal Credit claims.

With the number of Universal Credit claims in Perth and Kinross increasing considerably, the launch of this new telephone support BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

service couldn’t be better timed. The number of people coming to my office with concerns about Universal Credit has also skyrocketed, with many facing delays to payments or unfairly imposed sanctions.

Perth CAB can be contacted at 01738 450580 (Helpline) or 01738 450 581 (Appointment Line). Their website is https://www.perthcab. org.uk/

The Community Advice Project will help people to ensure that they are making the most of their money and that they can access the most cost-efficient energy tariffs.

I can be reached at 17-19 Leslie Street, Blairgowrie, PH10 6AH, on 01250 876576 or at pete.wishart.mp@parliament.uk

John Swinney MSP

Deputy First Minister of Scotland Scottish National Party

I have been involved with a number of local issues over the past couple of months, including meeting the parent council at Rattray Primary to hear about their concerns over the nursery extension and the condition of the school. I have made representations to Perth and Kinross Council about this. I was pleased to meet with members of the Blairgowrie Climate Café, at a time when climate change is at the fore of the political agenda. I will certainly continue to take forward their views in discussions with the Scottish Government and the authorities.

I will be meeting soon with Sgt Forrester at Blairgowrie Police Station to talk about a number of local issues that have been raised with me. It is important that there is a continuing dialogue between elected representatives and authorities such as Police Scotland. If readers have any specific issues, please let me know.

I would like to encourage local organisations, charities and community groups to apply for funding from SSE’s Perth and Kinross Sustainable Development Fund.

The fund, which is making £240,000 available, aims to supportive “transformative” projects that increase opportunities for education and employment, build resilience, protect vulnerable residents and stimulate meaningful community regeneration.

would therefore encourage any eligible organisations within my constituency to complete an application form.

The deadline for applications to be received is 12 Noon on 25 July 2019. Fund guidelines and an application form are attached to this email or are available at: https://sse.com/ communities/sustainablefund/ Finance Secretary Derek Mackay recently announced the town centre fund. It aims to drive local economic growth by helping town centres fund projects such as re-purposing buildings for retail, business and community enterprise, while improving access and infrastructure. It has been confirmed that Perth and Kinross will receive a share of £1,983,000 from the new ring-fenced fund.

This funding can help transform town centres, such as Pitlochry and Aberfeldy. The health of our town centres is vital to the economic and cultural life of our communities – and this new investment can make a real difference.

Perth and Kinross Council must now ensure that the £1.98m is spent wisely and ensure that our local town centres reap the benefits of this huge investment. The town centre fund is part of a wider package of business support measures that will help drive economic activity in Perthshire, helping to give our local high streets a welcome boost.

If any constituent needs to contact me, I can be reached at 17-19 Leslie Street, Blairgowrie, PH10 6AH, telephone 01250 876 576, email john.swinney.msp@parliament.scot

The money on offer will directly benefit communities across Perthshire, and I Page 61

Interviews & Contributors’ Articles

Murdo Fraser MSP Scottish Conservative

One of the most topical issues in Blairgowrie at the moment is the planned retail development for the Perth Road area of the town.

The Westpark Partnership has submitted its plan for the first phase of the project, which will include discount chains Lidl and Home Bargains.

The development will be part of the large Westpark expansion, which includes designs for hundreds of new homes on 70 acres of fields and woodlands.

Perth and Kinross Council backed a masterplan for the site earlier this year.

I know there are many local residents who welcome the prospect of this proposed lowcost shopping as an alternative to Tesco, but there are others who have concerns about an out-of-town shopping centre.

Out-of-town retail has killed town centres elsewhere in the country, and we should be careful about the possible impact on existing local businesses.

I will be keeping a close eye on this development and would encourage all residents with an interest to make their views known through the planning process.

Speeding motorists is another major issue for Blairgowrie. A number of constituents have contacted me about this matter and Perth and Kinross Council have installed a series of Vehicle Activated Signs on all the main access points entry into the town as well as around the Wellmeadow area in the town centre.

The council also has plans to roll out a 20mph speed limit around Rattray Primary School.

I will be engaging with the council to see whether these measures are working.

A particular concern has been speeding in Golf Course Road, with some constituents calling for a 20mph speed limit to be introduced along with a stronger police presence in the area to catch motorists who Page 62

flout the law.

Some constituents have also raised the issue of the road surface on Golf Course Road near Woodlands Grove.

With this in mind, I have written to Karen Reid, chief executive of Perth and Kinross Council, to look into the possibility of introducing a 20mph speed limit and also the problem of the road surface on part of Golf Course Road.

In addition, I have also written to Chief Superintendent Andrew Todd, divisional commander for Tayside, to ask that he considers police carrying out speed checks on Golf Course Road.

Health is an issue that constituents often contact me about and I was very alarmed to read the findings of a recent damning report on NHS Tayside’s treatment of breast cancer. A report published by Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) resulted in NHS Tayside announcing it will make changes to its breast cancer chemotherapy treatment after it was found to be different to the rest of Scotland.

HIS made a number of recommendations about ways to improve practice and processes. NHS Tayside states it has accepted all of these and is now developing an action plan to act on these with urgency.

NHS Tayside has also stated that it has written to all affected patients who received chemotherapy as part of their breast cancer care from December 1, 2016, when the change was made, offering them a clinic appointment with an oncologist.

It is staggering that this situation was allowed to develop, and we now need to provide reassurance to patients that things are now on the right track.

As ever, Murdo appreciates the feedback of constituents and can be contacted at the Control Tower, Perth Airport, Scone, PH2 6PL or via email at Murdo.fraser.msp@parliament.scot or via telephone at 01738 553990.

BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

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BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

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LOCAL BUSINESS CONTACTS This is a list of businesses who are members of the local Business Association.

Contact admin@discoverblairgowrie.co.uk to join.

Dentists

Blairgowrie Dental Care ............. 01250 875136

Beauticians, Therapists

Blairgowrie Reflexology ............. 07949 204 932

Garages

Cotly Garage ................................ 01250 872591

Funeral Directors

David Scott Funeral Directors ... 01250 876400

Self Catering

Ericht Holiday Lodges ................. +44 (1250) 874686

Removals

JJ Howe ......................................... 01250 872361

Retirement Appartments

McCarthy & Stone........................ 0800 201 4811

SCOTTISH SOLICITOR AND NOTARY PUBLIC YOUR TRUSTED ADVISERS PROPERTY LAW

ESTATE AGENCY

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BRDT Magazine - Spring 2019

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS Blairgowrie Community Hospital Reception ...................... 01250 874 466 Strathmore Older People’s mental Health Team ................... 01250 877 843 GP Unit ....................................... 01250 877 854 District Nurses ........................... 01250 872 030 Health Visitors ........................... 01250 876 668 Blairgowrie Dental Care............. 01250 875 136 Dundee Dental Hospital ............. 01382 660 111 Ninewells Main Number ............ 01382 660 111

POST OFFICES Blairgowrie ................................... 0345 611 2970 Local Delivery Office .................. 01250 872 766

ELDERLY ACTIVITIES Health Community Collaborative Hospital Day Room ...................... 01250 874 466 Adult Resource Centre ............... 01250 871 910 Social Services Day Care ............. 01250 877 843 Freedom Bus Adult Care Services . 0845 3011120 Care at Home ........................... 01738 476 7000

OTHER USEFUL NUMBERS

Perth Royal Infirmary ................ 01738 623 311

Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Advisor ....................... 01738 562 358

Royal Dundee Liff Hospital ....... 01382 423 000

Anti-Social Behaviour Team ...... 01738 476 173

NHS 24 ..............................................................111

Adult Care Area Office ............... 01250 871 910

CHEMISTS

Homelessness .............................. 0800 917 0708

Blairgowrie Housing Area Office 01738 476 000

Boots ............................................. 01250 872 029

Blairgowrie Library ....................... 01250 871 305

Davidsons ..................................... 01250 870 282

Blairgowrie Registration of Births, Deaths & Marriages ..................................... 01250 871 310

SURGERIES

Childcare Social Work Office ....... 01250 871 330

Ardblair Medical Practice ........... 01250 872 033

Child Protection ........................... 01738 476 768

Strathmore Surgery .................... 01250 872 552

Childcare, Family Info Service ..... 0845 601 4477

VETERINARY SURGERIES

Community Connect, Rattray ..... 01250 871 538

Blairgowrie Veterinary Surgery . 01250 872 061

Care at Home ............................... 01250 871 901

Thrums Veterinary Group .......... 01250 871 010

Police .................................................................101

LEISURE CENTRES Community Campus ................... 01250 871 967

Building Standards Warrants .... 01738 475 300

Scottish Gas Emergencies .............. 0800 111 999 Scottish Water ............................ 0845 6 018 855

Live Active .................................... 01250 871 360

SCHOOLS St Stephen’s Primary School ...... 01250 871 950

These numbers are provided for your convenience. If you have any corrections or suggestions for additions then please let One Voice know on Upper Mill Street

Rattray Primary School .............. 01250 871 980

(01250 871 120)

Newhill Primary School .............. 01250 871 941

Blairgowrie High School ............ 01250 871 200 Page 67

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