Pitlochry Life February 2023

The Pitlochry Tipple

This month Ewan gets all romantic over a Valentine's Day Cocktail.

Your Community

All the news from our MPs, Clubs, Groups and Churches.

Sudoku

Our Sudoku is also online this month, play every day and keep your brain active!

Willie's Wonky Computer

Willie looks at some really easy and very handy keyboard shortcuts.

The Pitlochry Garden

Sheila looks at all the benefits of pruning at this time of year.

Fitness With Alan Clinch

This month Alan looks at changing your eating habits to help lose weight.

A Good Book?

How reading regularly can positively change your life.

Recipe

Scotland's favourite sweet, alleged to originate in Aberdeenshire - Sticky Toffee Pudding!

The Pitlochry Crossword Lesley is back, with some geat advice, and to test your crossword ability, along with local and Scottish knowledge!

Welcome to the February edition of Pitlochry Life. It’s already staying lighter longer and I’m raring to get outside again. Too much snow!!

For you this month we have walks, trips, theatre shows and the Winter Words Festival at Pitlochry Festival Theatre. Spring is on its way! The Pitlochry Tipple this month has a cocktail especially for Valentines Day and our recipe is a favourite treat of mine - Sticky Toffee Pudding. I am all set!

In our fitness column we look at cutting your calories and Willie in the computer pages gives you some great tips for keyboard shortcuts. In the garden Sheila sees the benefits of pruning now, and if you can’t get out because of the weather then Lesley has given us a guide to cryptic crosswords. Give it a go - you might be surprised!

The town is coming out of it’s January hibernation - so pop out and say hello to all your favourite hospitality venues again and enjoy a wee treat. The live music continues and it’s great to enjoy an evening out.

Stay safe and see you in March.

The Pitlochry Garden

Ae Fond Kiss

With the birthday of Robert Burns past, the romantics amongst us turn our thoughts to Valentine’s Day. How can we show our deep appreciation to the people in our lives, who have the patience to put up with us every day. Who ignore our little foibles and support us through the trials and tribulations of everyday life, and conversely who we support and share their stresses and strains.

Food and drink are the answer!

A freshly prepared meal with some lovely wine and maybe a few Oysters, what more could the love of your life ask for, unless they are allergic to seafood! As W.C. Fields once said, “I cook with wine, sometimes I even add it to the food”.

Before the meal, what better way to start the evening than to dim the lights, dust off a Barry White album and serve a freshy prepared cocktail. Okay, Barry White was a step too far! But here are a few cocktail recipes with preparation instructions for you to try. All of the core ingredients are available at Robertsons of Pitlochry, and we also have our own “inhouse” qualified mixologist should you have any questions. Give them a go, they are easy to make, and you will have great fun in the process.

Ae Fond Kiss

• 50ml Robertsons ‘Double Award Winning’ Gin ��

• 10ml Lemon Juice

• 30ml Sugar Syrup

• 1 tsp seedless Raspberry Jam

Method: Add all ingredients to your cocktail shaker, shake, strain and pour into an ‘ice filled’ highball glass.

Garnish with raspberries and fresh mint.

French Martini

• 50ml Vodka

• 20ml Chambord

• 60ml Pineapple Juice

Method: Add all ingredients to your cocktail shaker, shake, strain and pour into a Martini glass.

Garnish with a raspberry Passion Fizz

• 20ml of either Crème de Cassis, Chambord or Fresh Orange Method: Add 20ml of your liqueur of choice to a champagne flute and top up with Prosecco or Champagne. Very simple and delicious. 2023 is the 10th anniversary of taking over the shop from Allan and Isla Robertson. Throughout the year we will be releasing special bottlings, hosting special tastings and as part of this we are pushing our Masterclasses in the Bothy to new levels, including Cocktail Making Masterclasses. This was an idea we rolled out in 2022 and it was very successful. We even had Cocktail Masterclass combined with a silent disco. That was great but not very silent!

Go onto our website or contact the shop for details of these events. If you would like to book a private masterclass for you and a group of friends, that can be done too.

Ewan McIlwraith

Robertsons of Pitlochry 44-46 Atholl Rd, Pitlochry PH16 5BX info@robertsonsofpitlochry.co.uk www.robertsonsofpitlochry.co.uk

Pitlochry Repair Cafe - 5th February

What do you do with a broken chair, an ornament with a crack, a jumper with a hole, a light that doesn't switch on or a bike with dodgy brakes? Bin it? No way!

Bring it to Pitlochry Repair Cafe! Our friendly team of volunteer repairers will do their best to fix anything (except phones)!

Sessions take place in Moulin Hall on the first Sunday of the month from 12-3pm

Dates for 2023 are 5 February, 5 March, 2 April, 7 May, 4 June, 3 September, 1 October, 5 November, 3 December.

Our talented repair volunteers have already successfully fixed over 50 items, preventing them from going into landfill.

While you wait, you can enjoy homemade baking, soup, hot drinks and good chat while you wait with our friendly front of house and baking volunteer team. Repairs and refreshments are all free and donations are welcome. Find us on Facebook and Instagram @PitlochryRepairCafe.

Interested in volunteering? We are always looking for skilled repairers, receptionists, bakers and cafe helpers! Email us on repaircafe@sprout-community-eco-hub.com

Hearing Aid Drop-in Clinic - 7th February

Do you or someone you know use NHS hearing aids? Do you need new batteries supplied and/or fitted? Do you need the tubing replaced on either your mould or open fit NHS hearing aids? If yes, then Royal Voluntary Service volunteers will be here to help you on Tuesday 7th February 2023 between 10.00am - 12.00 noon at the Pitlochry Community Hospital.

Pitlochry & District Climate Cafe - 7th February

“Believe in the power of your own voice. The more noise you make, the more accountability you demand from your leaders, the more our world will change for the better.” Al Gore.

A Climate Café is the space where everyone meets to chat about climate change, the issues we face and the actions we can take. Dates for Climate Cafés:- Please note - we have moved to a new venue and have some new dates for 2023. The venue is the Pitlochry Library, 26 Atholl Road, PH16 5BX. Our Climate Cafes will take place Tuesdays, 1pm and Thursdays 7pm, second week of the month. Therefore the next ones will be Tuesday 7th Feb & Thursday 9th Feb, Tuesday 7th March & Thursday 9th March, Tuesday 11th April & Thursday 13th April, Tuesday 9th May & Thursday 11th May, Tuesday 13th June & Thursday 15th June (virtual or in person). For more information please contact: Carol Aitken caaitken.naturaldesign@gmail.com Website: www.pitlochrycc.co.uk

New for 2023 SPROUT, The Community Eco Hub CIC will come into being by the beginning of February giving us access to more opportunities to organise more fun and informative events, workshops and conversations for our community. Repair Cafe in Pitlochry in 2023: There won't be a Repair Cafe in January, July or August to give volunteers a break! But here are the rest. 2023 Dates - All Sundays 5th February, 5th March, 2nd April, 7th May, 4th June, 3rd September, 1st October, 5th November and 3rd December. Times - 12pm to 3pm. Venue - Moulin Hall. For more information, please contact Julia Harriman repaircafe@sprout-community-eco-hub.com

GrowBiz - 8th February

Caring Futures: What is it and how can it benefit you?

Would you like to earn additional income on a part-time basis—and support your local community at the same time?

The Caring Futures project, delivered by GrowBiz, provides support to individuals and groups of people in the Perth and Kinross area, to consider working in the care sector on a self-employed basis. Caring can encompass anything from personal care and befriending, to gardening, cleaning, dogwalking, shopping or driving services.

The project will develop and support a network of self–employed carers across Perth and Kinross, helping them to be motivated, supported and fully aware of the opportunities available, along with the technical, legal and financial information needed for self-employment. One-to-one support is provided, along with learning opportunities and peer support through an extensive care and wellbeing network.

If you would like to find out more about how becoming a self-employed carer can benefit you and your community, come along to our friendly information session at PKAVS, Perth, on Wednesday the 8th February, 13:30 - 15:00. Everyone is welcome and snacks and drinks will be available. We will share information about:

• How to set up as self-employed

• Insurance, PVG checks, training opportunities etc

• What you can charge as self-employed

• How to find clients

• What support is available to help you

• The range of services you can provide

• and more!

Visit www.growbiz.co.uk/events to find out more, or email hayleygardiner@growbiz.co.uk

Moulin Scottish Country Dance Class - 9th February

Come come along and join us on the dance floor in Moulin Hall at 7.30 pm on:

Thursday 9th & 16th February. No experience required and all levels of dancer welcome. Great fun and proven to be beneficial for both mind and body!! All welcome. Admission £4.00 nightly. For further details phone June - 01796 473488

Heartland Film Society at The Birks - 12th February

Son of the renowned Iranian director Jafar Panahi, whose films have led to his imprisonment by the regime, Panar Panahi has none the less followed in his father’s footsteps by writing and directing Hit the Road. Suffused with subtle but urgent political meaning, this tense and funny film follows a chaotic, tender family as they journey across a beautiful, rugged landscape, fussing over the sick dog, singing, joking, laughing - and getting on each other’s nerves. Only the older brother, whose impending marriage is the supposed purpose of the journey, remains subdued. The film has gained numerous nominations and awards and makes for rewarding viewing.

e indulgent past-time of Afternoon Tea is a truly unique experience at Fonab Castle Hotel, taking all the classic avours and serving them in a modern and contemporary style, resulting in a ne-dining culinary journey.

Tranquil waters of Loch Faskally unfold from your unrivalled spot in 1892 on the Loch which boast oor-to-ceiling windows. e one-of-a-kind Afternoon Tea is eclipsed only by the view across to Ben Vrackie.

AFTERNOON tea LIKE YOU’VE never SEEN IT BEFORE www.fonabcastlehotel.com | 01796 470140

Non-residents welcome. Pre-booking essential.

Everyone’s welcome at HFS screenings, but why not become a member? The £10 subscription entitles you to 12 months of reduced prices for HFS films, plus other benefits.

Hit The Road Iran 2021 Cert 12A Sunday 12 February The Birks Cinema Aberfeldy

Full details: www.birkscinema.co.uk www.heartlandfilmsociety.org.uk

Scottish Wildlife Trust - 13th February

Pitlochry and Highland Perthshire Branch

The next meeting will be on Monday 13th February at 19.30, at the Breadalbane Campus, Small Lecture Theatre, Crieff Road, Aberfeldy PH15 2DU. The speaker will be Rick Worrell. Come and find out more about the ecology and genetics of wild crab apple (Malus sylvestris), which is probably Scotland’s least understood and most under-appreciated native tree. Everyone is very welcome, there is no charge. Suggested donations £2 for members, £3 for non members. For further information, contact Mark Aquilina markandrosie@btinternet.com

Pitlochry Litter Action Group - 14th February

The tourist season has more or less come to an end. But it would be nice for residents and visitors if the town is really clean with no litter disfiguring the streets and green spaces. If you agree that this is important do join our team of litterpickers. All equipment is provided including gloves, black bags and grabbers. We do try to separate recyclable waste from the other litter. Litterpicks take place on the second Tuesday of the month and we meet at 10.0am in the Recreation ground carpark. The next litterpick is on Tuesday 14th February.

Dates for litterpicks in 2023 are: 14th March, 11th April, 9th May, 13th June, 11th July, 8th August, 12th September, 10th October, 14th November, 12th December. We would like to thank those residents of Pitlochry who are not members of the litterpicking group and who also pick up litter when they see it. We know you do this and we are very grateful. For further information contact Roger West (rogerwest7@btinternet.com) 01796 474255 or Catherine Holmes (c.p.holmes47@btinternet.com) 01796 473400.

Grandtully Logierait & Strathtay Quilting Group - 14th February

We are about to start our new session on Tuesday 14th February and have vacancies for two to four new members. Adults with no sewing experience or those with plenty would be warmly welcomed to join us. We meet in the John Kyd Hall at Strathtay Church of Scotland on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7.00pm.

Increasing our number of meetings is under consideration for either weekly or on another day or time. So, if Tuesdays don’t suit you still get in touch, we would love to hear from you. Recycling is encouraged and sewing machines are available for initial use as are some donated fabrics. Tuition is available and ideas are readily discussed and shared while we work on a mixture of group and personal projects. For initial contact please phone Marie MacLeod on 01887 840 769

Pitlochry & District u3a - 15th February

We are looking forward to our annual Winter Blues Lunch which will be taking place in the Atholl Centre on Wednesday 15th February

Our special interest group continue to be active – these include Scottish History, two Book Groups, a German Group, a Gaelic Group and a Craft Group. A Theatre Going group and Garden Visit Group are being planned for later in the year. The u3a brings together people in their “third age” – that is people who have finished working full time or raising their family – to develop interests and to continue learning in informal and supportive environments. The focus is on sharing and learning from each other. In addition to our whole group talks, we also offer special interest groups which are led by one of our members - the emphasis is on learning from each other and having fun while doing so.

For further information please visit our website Pitlochry & District U3A: https://u3asites.org.uk/ pitlochry/welcome or contact Sandra Cairncross (Secretary) on smcairnx@hotmail.com with any queries.

Pitlochry Flower Club - 15th February

Our next meeting is on Wednesday 15th February at The Tryst Hall, Pitlochry at 2pm when Lindsay Florey will give a demonstration entitled “Musical Flowers”. There will also be a Club competition with the theme "Valentine's". And there will be a raffle, where you may be one of the lucky ones to win one of Lindsay's beautiful arrangements, and also a sales table. Visitors will also be made most welcome, a small charge of £7 is made. Do come along and have a fun afternoon with friends and flowers. For more information, please contact Janice Needham (01738 629933, needham914@btinternet.com) or Lynda Gardiner (01796 472157, lynda. gardiner@talk21.com). We are a small club and new members are welcome at any time.

The Pitlochry Town & Country Club - 16th February

The Pitlochry Town & & Country Club supported CHAS with their entry at Pitlochry Church Tree Festival on a 3 tier cake stand, depicting lots of tiny Teddy Bears enjoying a Teddy Bears picnic, tucking into sandwiches, fairy cakes & mince pies all knitted by members of the Town & Country Club. Delighted to be awarded 3rd, by public vote from 21 trees entered. Our next T&CC meeting will be on Thursday 16th February, when Anne Miller will demonstrate the art of book folding. Meeting at 2pm in Aldour Hall, with tea & home bakes. New members always welcome. Contact Kathleen Scott on 472765.

Breadalbane Heritage Society - 17th February

Given the inclement weather at this time of year, the meetings for February will be on Zoom.

17th February: ‘Mar Lodge Estate Regeneration’ presented on Zoom by Andrew Painting, Ecologist and Conservation Officer at the National Trust for Scotland’s Mar Lodge Estate. For the last 25 years, the NTS has been at the forefront of conservation and regeneration of landscape, covering woodland, peatland and hill country restoration, and raptor monitoring at their Mar Lodge Estate. Andrew will introduce us to the wide range of conservation work he is involved with at the estate.

17th March: ‘Old Ways and New Roads : Roads, Bridges, Landscapes and New Towns on the

Scotland Prestige Awards

Winner of Mortgage Broker of the Year 2022 Finalists in the 2019 and 2020 Scottish Mortgage Awards for both Best Mortgage Broker Edinburgh & Scotland categories and Shortlisted for the 2022 Awards for Best Regional Broker: Edinburgh and Best Regional Broker: Central Region

Katherine Paulin joins Inksters in Dunkeld

Katherine Paulin has joined Inksters Solicitors. She was formerly with J & H Mitchell in Pitlochry. Katherine deals with all aspects of residential and commercial property, wills and powers of attorney. She will be able to meet with clients at Dunkeld and Birnam Community Co-Working Space, Lagmhor, Dunkeld.

Katherine Paulin said, “I am delighted to be joining Inksters at this time in my career. I have two young children and had reached a point in my life where I thought I might have to make a choice between my family and my career. However, the freedom and flexibility afforded by Inksters’ fee-sharing model means that I can now excel not only as a lawyer, but also as a mother.”

Brian Inkster, CEO of Inksters said, “It is great to welcome Katherine to the firm and to add Dunkeld as a twelfth location to Inksters network in Scotland. Our model allows solicitors like Katherine to flourish and I am sure she will do so from our new base in Dunkeld with the assistance of our extended network of consultant solicitors and our back office support team.”

Inksters have developed a model where senior lawyers can work as a collective, with enhanced technology and back-office support. Where a hub-and-spoke model exists with a back office “hub” (in Glasgow) and “spokes” elsewhere (currently in Aberdeen, Dunkeld, Edinburgh, Eigg, Forfar, Inverness, Lerwick, Portree, Renfrew, Thurso and Wick).

Inksters are an award winning law firm, most recently in 2022 receiving both the Scottish and UK Federation of Small Businesses Selfemployed / Sole Trader of the Year Award.

For legal advice, contact us: Inksters Dunkeld and Birnam Community Co-Working Space Lagmhor Dunkeld PH8 0AD

Highland Circuit, 1720 – 1832’ presented in person at the Breadalbane Community Campus in Aberfeldy by Christopher Dingwall, an independent landscape historian and heritage consultant and currently vice-chairman of Scotland’s Garden and Landscape heritage. His talk will look at the development of transport in the Highlands of Scotland between the building of the first military roads in the 1720s and the arrival of railways in the 1830s, and the impact this had on the Highland landscape. It involved building bridges, diverting roads and establishing new settlements along the route taken by the increasing number of tourists following a circuit through the Southern Highlands. The speaker will pay particular attention to the impact of these developments on the Taymouth Castle estate.

The BHS’s website https://breadalbane-heritage.org.uk features a video of local scenes of interest, and provides up-to-date information about talks and activities, events, publications, projects including maintenance of the Killiehassie private burial ground in Strathtay, and services such as assistance with family history research. Recordings of all the talks for 2020-March 2022 are now available on this site.

Updated information on events and talks will be posted on the BHS website. To get the link enabling you to join the Zoom talks, and for any enquiries, please email bhsaberfeldy@gmail.com

Rannoch History Society - 18th February

‘Burnt at the Stake’ is the arresting title of the talk to be given by Nevill Mangin of Killichonan at the February meeting of Rannoch History Society. Many of us like to delve into family history but few can discover a story as dramatic as this.

The meeting will take place in Kinloch Rannoch Village Hall at 2.30pm on Saturday 18th February, 2023, and all are welcome. Light refreshments will be served. Admission at the door will be £4 for non-members of the Society.

Inner Wheel Club of Pitlochry - 23rd February

Inner Wheel is an international women's organisation. Our objects are to promote true friendship; to encourage the ideals of personal service; to foster international understanding and we do this this through regular meetings, social events and raise funds to support local and international charities. January saw the club getting together to mark Inner Wheel Day with members bringing along donations for the local Foodbank.

The club meets in the evening on the fourth Thursday of every month. Gorden Conacher, Pitlochry Rotary President will be joining us at our next meeting. If you are interested in attending or would like further information, then please email innerwheelpitlochry@gmail.com

Music in Rannoch - 26th February

The concert from October that had to be cancelled at short notice for reasons of Covid is now re-arranged for Sunday February 26th at 3.00pm in the Old Church of Rannoch, Kinloch Rannoch. Music from The Gallus Brass Quintet, from the Royal Scottish Conservatoire, includes Crespo, Ewald and Debussy. £8 at the door. Refreshments available during the interval. Children free. Easy parking.

Sudoku

How to play............

Fill the grid so that every row, column and every 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition. That’s all there is to it! Use reasoning and logic to solve the puzzle - there’s no maths or adding up.

Look carefully for what numbers can go where and with a little practice it will get easier!

Pitlochry and Moulin History Society - 27th February

The February meeting of the History Society will be something different! An archive film on the remaking of the A9 from the moving image archive of National Libraries of Scotland. The film “A9 Highland Highway” a documentary on the remaking of the A9 between Perth and Inverness, Britain`s highest trunk road, over a 10 year period. I am sure many of the audience will remember the works and the heavy traffic rumbling along General Wade`s Road and through Pitlochry. The talk will be on Monday 27th February at 7.30pm in the Pitlochry Tryst Lounge. All welcome, admission £2. Tea and coffee afterwards.

Pitlochry Angling Club Open Night - 15th March

Pitlochry Angling Club is delighted to announce a resumption of our annual open night, to which all are warmly welcome, on Wednesday 15th March 2023 at 7.30pm in Scotlands Hotel, Pitlochry. There will be a charity fishing tackle auction with the proceeds being shared with the Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) and Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA). Our guest speaker for the evening will be announced nearer the time. To donate items of fishing tackle please contact Alistair McCartney on 01796472924.

Killiecrankie, Fincastle & Tummel Community Council20th March

Our next meeting will focus on large infrastructure deliveries in the Tummel area. On 20 March, a representative from SSEN Transmission will speak about the proposed route for the delivery of a transformer to the site near Loch Kinardochy in Foss. The delivery is due end-April/beginning-May 2023. At the same meeting, a representative from SSE Renewables will give details of 16 large deliveries scheduled throughout the first half of 2023 to the Tummel Bridge site.

We wish to help minimise disruption for residents in the area. So please send questions in advance to info@kftcommunitycouncil.co.uk and/or come along to the meeting at 7pm in Killiecrankie Village Hall.

Minutes from our last meeting on 16 January are now on our web www.kftcommunitycouncil.co.uk

Remember to join our mailing list so we can email Minutes directly to you.

JustSingin` Birnam

Everyone is welcome to join JustSingin`, a friendly, mixed all age community choir which meets on Wednesdays in Birnam, 7.30pm-9.30pm, upstairs in the Birnam Arts, Station Road, Birnam.

The current term runs to 23rd March and we are happy to welcome back choir leader. Ruth Rankin, www.ruth-rankin.com There are no auditions to join our a capella choir, you just need to enjoy singing with other people. We have inspiring professional tutors with old, and some modern, songs taught in the aural tradition. Please visit www.justsingin.co.uk for full details, or phone Katie on 07765 405203.

Newsflash! Our 20th Anniversary Concert will be on 17th June!

Scottish Charity No: SCO36400

Pete Wishart MP - Perth & North Perthshire - SNP

At the time of writing, the Perthshire Agronomy Roadshow is taking place today, discussing farming sustainability and profitability in the face of the UK’s bleak economic forecast.

Perthshire’s farming sector truly is a cornerstone of the rural economy, but despite having some of the most fertile land in all of Scotland, farmers from across my constituency have been telling me that they have never seen the sector under such strain.

Over the coming week, I will be visiting Mains of Murthly farm in Aberfeldy and Muirton Farm in Alyth to discuss the exact scale of the challenges they are grappling with, as well as to find out what support they need going forward.

With parliament now sitting again, I will be relaying their appeals to the UK Government and requesting a detailed plan for how they intend to protect the sector throughout the stormy waters that lie ahead.

In truth, 2023 looks set to be hugely difficult for practically every sector. With the festive boost in trade now over, many businesses will be looking at the year ahead with much trepidation. Highland Perthshire is filled to the brim with fantastic small and independent businesses, and it is devastating to see so many struggling at the moment.

It has never been more important to support and celebrate these establishments, which is why I was so delighted to see three of them making it to the final of the esteemed Countryside Alliance Awards.

The Scottish Deli and The Taybank in Dunkeld, and Dow's Delicatessen in Aberfeldy, are in contention for a title in the Local food/drink, Pub, and Village shop/post office categories respectively.

Dubbed ‘the rural Oscars’, the awards are now in their sixteenth year and have become the definitive rural business award to win. Making it to the final of such a prestigious event is a testament to all their hard work and the excellent service they provide to their community. I will be following their progress with pride and will certainly be championing their success in the run-up to the award ceremony in May.

Another issue that has been affecting Highland Perthshire residents is the proposal for parking charges at Faskally Woods. Several constituents have gotten in touch with me about this issue and I have raised their concerns to Forestry and Land Scotland. John Swinney MSP and I will also be meeting with members of Friends of Faskally later in the month to discuss ways in which we can assist them going forward.

Faskally Woods is an essential component to the mental and physical wellbeing of local residents and should continue to be accessible to all.

Murdo Fraser - Mid Scotland & Fife - Conservative

I hope all Pitlochry Life readers had a nice Christmas and may I pass on my best wishes to you all for 2023. Now we are back to the cut and thrust of politics at the Scottish Parliament and I will be focusing on dealing with queries from constituents along with being a member of the Covid Recovery Committee, and progressing with my Members’ Bill on Fly Tipping.

I was delighted to hear that both the Pitlochry New Year’s Day Party and the Aberfeldy Hogmanay Party in the Square were very successful, with the former attracting around 3,000 revellers. This was obviously great news for the local hotels and guest houses.

Willie’s Wonky Computer Factory

There are hundreds, probably hundreds and hundreds of keyboard shortcuts on a computer.

If you are a touch typist you will be well used to many shortcuts, however for us that are not, we abandon the keyboard and use the mouse to select an action from the menu. The problem then is that if we don’t use the shortcuts regularly you forget them and press a couple of keys expecting something to happen, only to find the computer does something completely different - and makes it really difficult to get back to where you started.

Keyboard shortcuts really are what they sayshortcuts, and if you can remember and regularly use just a few, they do make life a little easier. Every program on your computer has a set of dedicated shortcuts, however there are some that are universal in that they will work in most programs, as well as in Windows and on a Mac. The one of most benefit is Undo and it works everywhere - Control + Z. (Like most shortcuts it’s not case sensitive, so Control + z also works). It is Command + Z on a Mac - most basic Mac shortcuts will start with Command, rather than Control.

You may be familiar with it in Word where it will undo whatever you just typed, however it works in nearly all applications and will undo anything you just did, both in Windows and on a Mac. So, for example, if you accidentally moved or deleted a file, hitting CTRL + Z will bring it right back to its original location. Additionally, you can redo anything you undid by pressing CTRL + Y. The clever part is that if you keep hitting CTRL + Z it will take you back as far as you want.

If like me you copy and paste lots of text, regularly, the shortcut for that is CTRL + C (Copy) and CTRL + V (Paste). Just highlight the text or items you want copied by swiping over them on a left clicked mouse and press CTRL + C, then put the mouse cursor where you want to place them and press CTRL + V

If you want to highlight and select all the text or objects, then the shortcut to select all is CTRL + A. If you want part of the text you can swipe with the mouse, or place the cursor at the start of the text you want, press the SHIFT key and then place

the cursor at the end point and that portion will highlight.

If wanting to copy and paste different items like pictures for example, click on the first one, hold down the Control key then click on the others you want and it will only highlight the ones selected. On a Mac that’s Shift + Click.

If you want to rename a file, highlight it and hit the F2 Function Key, this works really well when you want to rename a batch of files, say for example some photos. Highlight the ones you want to rename, hit F2 and type in the new name and it will be applied to them all with a sequential number ie John’s Wedding (1), John’s Wedding (2) and so on.

If working with lots of text, either in a document, or in a web page and you want to find Something CTRL + F will open a search box (known as a Find Field) which allows you to search the text currently displayed in the program you are using. CTRL + S will Save whatever you are working on. CTRL + P will open up the Print dialog box.

Leaving your computer for a minute? Lock the screen with the Windows Logo Key + L, on a Mac that is CTRL + Com +Q.

Ok, you’ve learned 11 that will come in very handy. It’s worth researching keyboard shortcuts for whatever program you are using and learning the ones that are most useful, they save time by not having to leave the keyboard and picking up the mouse. If you regularly complete a series of actions and can’t find a keyboard shortcut for it - create your own, just Google ‘create Windows keyboard shortcut’ :o) Willie

With a fairly heavy snowfall on Hogmanay in Pitlochry, extra praise must be given to local residents who cleared the snow and put up bunting prior to the arrival visitors at 1pm on New Year’s Day. The sounds of the Vale of Atholl Pipe Band created a great atmosphere as those who attended got into a party mood. In addition, hundreds of raffle tickets were sold, which plays an important role for future events and also raises money for local community groups. Praise should also be handed out to the committee - David Watters, Cathy Joss, Alastair Jackson, Graeme Holmes and Iain Walker - who arranged the tremendous event Meanwhile, several bands performed for a large crowd at the Aberfeldy Hogmanay Party and those who attended enjoyed a fantastic fireworks display. Thanks should go to Matt Rogers and Perthshire Sound and Light for all the work they do to put on the Aberfeldy party.

And Aberfeldy was also in the spotlight after the entire town was awarded the Scotland’s People Award by TV presenter and former journalist Jackie Bird at a carol concert before Christmas. Local residents in Aberfeldy showed true community spirit by helping stricken people in Ukraine following the invasion of Russian troops.

The good people of Aberfeldy helped with visas, funded flights, set up English language lessons, community groups and support networks as they welcomed 33 young families from Ukraine into the community. Prior to Christmas, carols were being sung in Aberfeldy Town Hall by Aberfeldy Community Choir and some pupils from Breadalbane Academy when much to the surprise of everyone there they realised they were at the top secret filming of Scotland’s People with Jackie Bird, a festive celebration of Scotland’s unsung heroes.

Video messages of thanks came from Annie Lennox, Judge Rinder, Alan Cumming, Benedict Cumberbatch, Andriy Shevchenko and Serhiy Prytula, and an even bigger surprise followed when Jackie Bird pulled the curtain of the stage back to reveal Brit-award musician, Tom Walker, who went on to play a surprise gig for the town. A truly memorable and fitting end to 2022. Murdo Fraser always welcomes feedback from constituents. He can be contacted at The Control Tower, Perth Airport, Scone, PH2 6PL, by email on murdo.fraser.msp@parliament.scot or by telephone on 01738 553676.

John Swinney MSP - Perthshire North - SNP

I would like to wish all readers a happy new year, and I hope that you enjoyed a restful festive period.

Recently, the First Minister spoke of the unprecedented challenges facing our NHS, along with the steps being taken by the Scottish Government to alleviate this pressure. It is important to note that this is undoubtedly the toughest winter that our NHS has ever faced. Whilst the NHS faced pressures prior to Covid, it is clear that the pandemic has had, and continues to have, a huge impact on our health service.

For example, at the time of this writing 1 in 25 people in Scotland had Covid. Whilst the vaccine programme has been a resounding success and significantly reduced its potential health harms, this still led to 400 people being admitted to hospital with the virus within a week-long period. And for the week beginning 9th January, there were more than 1200 patients with Covid in our hospital. This was twice as many people as four weeks prior. Meanwhile, the NHS continues to deal with backlogs of treatment that were amassed during the pandemic. It is important to note that progress is being made on this front. In November, for example, more than 21,300 planned operations took place across Scotland - the highest number in a month since the start of the pandemic. Additionally, more than 90% of operations went ahead as

The Pitlochry Garden February

In spite of all the rain in January, and probably another helping of winter this month, there is still the strong possibility of a prolonged period of drought again this summer.

Fresh water is a precious commodity. Don’t let it run away without thinking of the flip side of climate change; take the hint we got last summer. That is the problem for gardeners now: prepare for sodden ground, or even flooding, but also think about storing some water for precious crops this summer. A water butt will help and it can be installed under the drain from the greenhouse. There will be good days and bad this month so here are a few things to be getting on with if you are keen to get outside. If the weather prevents you from working, don’t worry, most of this can still be done in the early part of next month.

The first job is all the pruning not done in the early part of the winter. Restorative pruning of mature deciduous shrubs is one example: select one-third of the oldest and thickest stems and cut them right down to the ground. Do this every winter and in three years all the growth will be on new wood. If you chip around the outside of the shrub old wood just accumulates in the centre until the plant dies off.

Next, do any formative pruning of apples and pears between now and bud break. Leave cherries and plums until mid-summer to avoid fungal disease getting in.

Look at the structure of the whole tree and make the fewest cuts possible, always going right back

to the main stem. Remove the dead and diseased wood to begin with and then take out anything that is crossing or crowded, especially in the centre of the tree. Then stop.

You can prune back any late-flowering clematis, like C jackmanii or durandii, to about two feet above ground or at least two pairs of buds. Now finish pruning the roses: reduce hybrid teas to an outward facing bud; remove dead wood from floribundas and shorten stems by a third to an outward facing bud. Cut back ramblers to the ground and remove old, flowered wood from climbers as well as any dead wood.

On bad days there are still things you can do: clean up the shed, tunnel or greenhouse, removing any over-wintering insects.

Wash up the small pots and trays that you will need soon enough for sowing new flowers and crops. Seed catalogues will be full of new, inspiring choices; look for varieties that are diseaseresistant, bolt-hardy or quick-maturing. Make your orders early to have your pick.

Now is a good time to clean and sharpen your tools: a blade without an edge cannot make a clean cut. That goes for the mower too; get it serviced now and avoid the rush.

That’s quite a list but, if the ragged clouds part, and the sun shines, stop work and go for a snowdrop walk – spring is coming.

Sheila Drummond

planned over the autumn period.

Additionally, there has been a significant rise in flu and other respiratory viruses, along with a growing number of Strep A cases.

The combination of these factors has led to unprecedented demand on our NHS. As an example, the number of calls that NHS24 answered during the two four-day Christmas and New Year's holiday periods totalled almost 100,000, which is the highest figure in more than ten years. Additionally, calls to NHS24 increased by about 50% in the final week of 2022 compared to the prior week.

In response to these challenges, the Scottish Government has already invested an additional £600m to support health and social care over the winter period. This includes funding to recruit up to 750 nurses and 250 support staff. Additionally, the First Minister confirmed that NHS24 would be hiring extra staff in order to deal with the exceptionally high call volumes. And concrete steps to tackle delayed discharges were announced, with the Scottish Government working with partners in the care sector to support the booking of additional care home beds for patients to be discharged to whilst their care packages are being finalised. A further £8m of funding will support these efforts.

We have also issued guidance to health boards this week making clear that, if it is deemed necessary, they can and should take steps to prioritise and protect critical and life-saving care.

Whilst there are no easy solutions to the challenges our NHS faces, and will continue to face, in the months ahead, the Scottish Government will always use every power at our disposal to support our most precious institution. It is why we have invested record levels of funding into our health service and offered the most generous pay deals in the UK to its staff.

People across Highland Perthshire can be assured that the Scottish Government's commitment to supporting and strengthening this invaluable service will never waiver.

Should you wish to contact me or feel that I can be of assistance with an issue, I can be reached via john.swinney.msp@parliament.scot or 01250 876 576. My office is located at 17-19 Leslie St, Blairgowrie, PH107HW.

Pitlochry and District Neighbourhood Watch

As cost of living problems are likely to continue throughout the next year it is expected that scammers and other fraudsters will try to exploit people. Former criminal activity is likely to continue together with new scams and frauds.

There has been a reported rise in illegal money lending, with millions of people across the UK turning to loan sharks to help pay bills. This is despite the fact that loans from illegal lenders end up costing on average three times as much as a legal loan.

Illegal lenders may be people who appear to be helpful, or may operate online offering quick and easy loans via social media and WhatsApp. They are not approved by the Financial Conduct Authority. Interest rates can be huge, clear information about terms and conditions may not be provided. Threats may be used to exploit vulnerable people.

If you have borrowed money from an illegal lender you have not committed a crime and you can get help. Call 0800 074 0878, or fill out an online contact form at www.stopillegallending.co.uk/ report-a-loan-shark

Find out more about the work of the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit at www.stopillegallending.co.uk

Anyone with money worries can get help and advice from the Citizens Advice Bureau.

The Perth bureau can help you make a plan to deal with debt and arrears, help with access to food banks and other support, provide information about how to reduce outgoings and check you are receiving benefits you are entitled to. 0800 196 9440 or email advice@perthcab.org.uk

Trading Standards Scotland provide a monthly bulletin informing about scams. There are many, many scams. The most frequent in 2022 were:

Cost Of Living, Deliveries, Energy Suppliers, Banking, Energy Efficiency, Doorstep Cold Calling, Making Investments, Prize Draws, Council Official Impersonation, Hmrc, Whatsapp Frauds, Online Shopping.

Scams attempt to obtain personal details and bank account information or cash payments through fraud. It is worth studying the website www.tsscot.co.uk

Other valuable information about scams and frauds identified by local residents is received by street Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinators who can share this with their members or on facebook. Many thanks to all who contribute to this local effort which lets everyone know what to look out for.

For more information about Neighbourhood Watch contact Cath Marshall, the local Secretary, on 470575 or email marshall16@marshall16.plus.com

Neighbourhood Watch Lost Email addresses: Cath Marshall

Just before the end of December, I lost several of my contact email addresses and have been reinstating these from various sources.

If you had been receiving Neighbourhood Watch Alerts from Cath Marshall but have not received any since the New Year, please email me at marshall16@marshall16.plus.com if you wish to receive them in the future and I will restore your contact details to my group. Many thanks and apologies for the disruption to the service.

Heartland FM

We are into 2023 and face some fresh challenges, thanks to everyone who filled in one of our surveys at the end of last year. We asked you about the funding of The Heartland Radio Foundation and how you can help us achieve the aims of the charity for the future. So I thought it was prudent to remind us all of why Heartland FM is here and what if is trying to achieve for the community. The aims of the charity are to advance education by providing a range of media training opportunities that will help people in Perthshire develop their personal and employability skills; and to advance community development by promoting volunteering, and by working with partner agencies to address social and economic issues in communities within Perthshire; and to advance heritage and culture by promoting and celebrating the distinctive music, arts and culture of Scotland and of Perthshire. So that's a lot of positive things we can do, and get funding to help us achieve our aims. Heartland FM, our social media channels, website and news service are all the vehicles to make this happen. We were delighted that 86% of people who responded to the survey said they would help with fundraising to help achieve the aims of charity. We are working though the ideas, but a raffle, a crowdfunding campaign and members club are all popular suggestions. So watch this space!

By supporting us you are helping us to achieve our objectives with education by supporting our student training, our commitment to helping volunteering with training and support, and support the culture and music of Scotland. We were delighted to have been at the Careers Fayre at Breadalbane Academy and chatted to pupils from Pitlochry High School too about volunteering

and training opportunities at Heartland FM.

As we look to achieve this, we have had to trim our operational costs too, so there will be some cut backs to the level we can service during this time, but we are looking to recruit more volunteers and if you would like to join the team, please let me know. Again with our objective to support volunteering, and upskilling people helping them back into work or education. So why not become part of the team - you can get in touch by emailing me at stationmanger@heartland.scot

Thanks for listening and here’s to a bright future - Alistair Smith.

Atholl Centre New Office Open hours

The Atholl Centre Office open hours are now Friday 10.00am – 4.00pm

Christmas Community Lunch 2022

Our Christmas Lunch was enjoyed by around 50 guests & volunteers. What a fantastic spread of food, and a wonderful Community gathering. Thanks again to all those who made it possible, and we are looking forward to next Christmas already!

Food Bank Referrals & self referrals all welcome. Please ask if you need some help to cope with the increased cost of living.

NB: Please note; our Emergency contact number: 07443 738240.

Pitlochry Baptist Church – Friday Soup Lunch.

We meet again weekly, every Friday at 12 midday, from 6th January 2023, in the Atholl Centre, behind the Church. All very welcome. Come & enjoy a hearty Soup Lunch and meet new friends. The Community Larder – is quite separate from the Food Bank; it is Open 24/7 for anyone to ‘give’ or ‘take’ food items along with other household items. Each day food on it’s ‘Best Before’ date is collected from the Coop shop, and is placed in the Community Larder. This is to avoid food waste and to support many with the rising prices at this time. Other items are donated by locals, in order to share with others.

We are expanding the Larder to include a fridge and freezer, also available 24/7. Follow the signs to the Larder cupboard at the Atholl Centre. Thank you for the kind donations of fridges & freezer, along with electric supply provided by RW Bell of Pitlochry. We can look forward to fresh produce throughout the Year.

Atholl Centre Garden Chalet - Looking for holiday accommodation, or family visiting and needing additional accommodation? Our 3 bedroomed, ground floor Garden Chalet is fitted with easy access and facilities to assist the wheelchair user. February 2023, Special booking rate, 25% Discount. Enquire in the Atholl Centre Office 01796 473044.

Changing Places Toilet - New and fully equipped Rest room facility for the disabled

The Coat Rail - We have a great choice of donated Winter coats & jackets. Please come along to choose one that is right for you. If you are struggling, this year to replace your old Winter coat, or if you would like to swap it for another. The Centre is open Monday – Friday. This year is a year for sharing with one another. Every coat donated to the Coat rail, has been given with the hope that someone else will benefit from the Service.

Warm Places - Pitlochry Community is providing the following venues where you can be assured of a FREE friendly and warm welcome, serving tea/coffee/soup & snacks, alongside a programme of activities; board games, crafts, jigsaws and much more.

Atholl Centre Mondays 10.00am – 1.00pm.

Pitlochry Church of Scotland Tryst Wednesdays 10.30am – 3.30pm.

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church Comfy Café Thursdyas 11.00am – 3.00pm. Pitlochry Baptist Church Cosy Café in Atholl Centre Fridays 10.00am – 2.00pm. Look out for the posters around Town, or call 01796 473044 for more info.

C.A.T.H.

Churches Action For The Homeless

The outreach service will be at the Atholl Centre, Pitlochry on the first Tuesday of every month, between 10.00am and 12 midday. We can provide support with Housing issues and Benefit queries/applications. We also provide support to access a range of available services. Please feel free to drop in for a chat, or phone Helen Tilly on 07739 858 987.

Helen Kirkwood, Atholl Baptist Centre SCIO15113, Atholl Centre, Atholl Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5BX Further information from 01796 473044.

Christmas Together

‘Christmas Together’ on Sunday 11th December 2022 at Pitlochry Church of Scotland. Pitlochry & District Choral Society brought us a joyous evening of quality entertainment. The Choir, directed by Collen Nicoll and Andrew Johnston performed with around 50 members, giving a varied Programme from Christmas Carols to Excerpts from Handel’s Messiah.

The Interval Collection this year was raising funds for Pitlochry and Aberfeldy Food Banks. Helen Kirkwood of Pitlochry Food Bank spoke of the acute need of support to Food Banks Nationwide and even in the local Communities, during this time of crisis due to the increased cost of living. The very considerable sum of £600.00 was raised to support the work, helping to sustain those struggling in these Communities at present and during the year ahead.

Pictured: Muriel Zobel (right) presenting Helen Kirkwood with the FB donation.

Rotary Club of Pitlochry

When we wished each other a ‘Happy New Year’ at the end of 2022, almost as one, we all expressed the fervent hope for a better year in 2023. There are many caring and hard-working people who work tirelessly to improve living conditions in our community. Whether it be for one of the many charity organisations in town, an animal welfare organisation, a cause to improve the day to day living conditions for all of us, the vast majority of these people do so without remuneration. They work for us simply because they care.

This year, the Rotary theme for Incoming Rotary International President Jennifer Jones, is “Imagine Rotary”. Rotary Clubs worldwide have been asked to take some time out to Imagine how each of our Clubs could develop to meet the challenges of the years ahead. Every action starts with a dream and imagination. If not already involved with a cause you care for and feel is important, why don’t you take 5 minutes in a quiet corner and reflect on how you too can help to make a difference and get involved? It may require far less of your time than you feared!

Imagine what is possible – and make it happen. Be courageous and help us to build a better future. Join us at one of our Rotary Meetings and share your thoughts and causes you care for with us. Together, you may just see magic happen!

Contact us at: secretary@pitlochry.rotary1010.org

Pitlochry Station Bookshop

February brings an event which is very popular with our Bookshop volunteers who get to sell our books in the cosy setting of Pitlochry Festival Theatre surrounded by authors and other readers.

For the first time in three years, the theatre is hosting its “Winter Words” book festival in real life rather than as a Covid-required online event. It runs from Thursday 9th to Sunday 12th February.

The programme is available online and as a booklet too. Inside you will find a list of events for the four days featuring a range of authors from across Britain who will talk about and discuss their latest works. A quick glance shows at least eighteen events covering everything from crime (fictional and factual), travel, photography and nature, to history and poetry. Each day’s programme starts at 11.00am and runs through until the evening and will be attended by book enthusiasts from far and wide. Our volunteers find that it’s not only the official events which attract but the after-event discussions over coffee or at the book stalls or at the book signing queues. This is a festival with a buzz.

Our Station Bookshop stall will be offering a wide range of second-hand books, many especially selected to tie in with the programmes various themes. As always, all money taken goes straight to our six charities.

We hope you will be able to join us at “Winter Words”. Visit our stall to inspect our book range, tell us about the authors you are seeing or just come to say hello.

Of course, the Bookshop at the station will still be open each day during “Winter Words”. To prepare, read through the programme and choose the events you would like to attend. You will be spoiled for choice.

Pitlochry Library

Pitlochry Library is open. The opening hours are: Thursday 10am-1pm and 2pm-7pm. Saturday 9.30am-12.30pm 01796 474635 / pitlochrylibrary@culturepk.org.uk

Bookbug sessions are held at Pitlochry Library every Thursday from 10.15 – 10.45am. Come and join us for a session of songs, stories, and rhymes for under 5s. Prebooking for each session is essential. Please contact Pitlochry Library by phoning 01796 474635 or by emailing pitlochrylibrary@culturepk.org.uk to book a spot.

Book Fines

Library users no longer need to pay fines if they return their books later than the return date. Culture Perth and Kinross hope that ending fines will remove one of the barriers that may prevent people from using their libraries, making them accessible, inclusive, and welcoming to everyone living or working in the region. The move also reflects the ambitions of the Forward: Scotland's Public Library Strategy, published in 2021.

Free Online Digital Skills Learning Opportunities

PKC Adult Learning Hub is now offering free digital skills sessions that will cover essential digital skills for life and work such as: staying safe online, communicating with others, setting up an email address, accessing services online and much more. Find out more atwww.pkc.gov.uk/article/21753/Adult-learning-Computing-and-IT

One of our friendly team of staff from Perth and Kinross Council will be available to support you and answer any questions you might have.

Tel: 01738 477097 Mobile/text: 0777 555 3245.

Vale of Atholl Pipe Band

Hope you all had a great New Year. The pipe band certainly did. We started off on Hogmanay up at the Kynachan Loch Tummel Hotel where we got a fantastic welcome, then it was down to the Atholl Place hotel for midnight. Another great welcome, then the snow started...We woke up in the morning to it still snowing!

To our great relief, the New Year Street Party went ahead. A fantastic team with shovels and ploughs clearing the road and pavements! Once again it was a super afternoon. We couldn't do the usual marching and had to play standing still as the road was pretty slippy and Ghillie Brogues are not the best footwear on slush and ice! but everyone had a great time. Many thanks to the great Street Party Committee.

By the time you read this, we'll have held our Junior Solo Competition in Pitlochry High School on the 21st January and we'll also have done a “Beat Retreat” at the Britannia on the 27th January. Practices continue for the learners and the Grade 4 band down in the Tulloch Institute in Perth every Tuesday night. Please contact me if you wish further details.

Gillie McNab 07733152223 gmcnab00@aol.com

Edradour Pitlochry & Blair Atholl Pipe Band

Many thanks to everyone who purchased tickets for our Christmas Hampers, we raised over £1100 and well done to the following winners: - Fiona Lawless, Mike Nodes, Clare Robertson, Roseanna, Blair, Aaron Bryce, Julie Henderson, Ella McLauchlan, J Beck, Sally Stephen, Kirsty Gowans, Alison Johnstone & Gill Zsak. It was with great sadness that we played at the funeral for one of our founder members, Sean Townsley. Sean was passionate about his piping and whether it was with the band or a solo performance, he gave his all. Quite the charmer, he was a great ambassador for the band. Always smart and always smiling. We won’t forget that smile. Our condolences to all the family. Practices are busy in Blair Atholl on a Wednesday evening in preparation for the forthcoming competition season. If you would like more information on the band, please contact Pipe Major Christy Kelly 01796 472692 or Secretary Claire Scott 01796 481456 or follow us on Facebook or twitter.

Local Christmas Card Delivery Service

The Christmas Card Delivery service, which operated from Victoria’s Restaurant from 5th – 9th December, raised £1,291.66. This sum has been split on a 60:40 basis providing £775 for the Food Bank and £516.66 for our Senior Citizens’ Bus

Thank you to everyone who used the service and contributed so generously; thank you to all the volunteer sorters and deliverers, who made it happen; and thank you to the staff of Victoria’s Restaurant for being such great hosts. Your support is very much appreciated.

Killiecrankie Village Hall

Killiecrankie Village Hall is open again and available for hire. The hall is suitable for all sorts of events and offers a good meeting space together with a stage, fully equipped kitchen and parking.

Please check availability and book online www.killiecrankievillagehall.co.uk

Blair Atholl Bowling Club

Greetings to all our current and potential members. February can be a bit of a cold, wet and miserable month so why not brighten your week with a visit to the bowling club on Friday evenings. We will be playing our Darts and Domino leagues as well as testing your football knowledge with the ‘Footy Sheet’. If you fancy a bit of company and a game, all with a tipple or two you’ll be more than welcome.

We unfortunately suffered a burst pipe during the cold snap in January but thankfully we had drained down the water system so no real damage done and thanks to Matt Carr all now repaired. If you were to give bowls a go and become a member this coming season at an introductory offer of just £30, you’ll have access to all the clubs facilities – green, clubhouse, bar etc and the opportunity to play in club and inter-club competitions.

If you are perhaps considering taking up a new pastime or activity and would like more information about the bowling club then please contact Paul 01796 481 506 or Linda 07921 264 965 who will be only too happy to help.

Pitlochry Bowling Club

January was a quiet month as snow and icy roads made travelling difficult. However we started off the New year with a party on New Year’s Eve. We are now looking forward to the year ahead. The winter competition sheet is up in the club house for those wanting to enter.

Evelyn Humphrey and John Greenshields recently won the Killiecrankie cup beating Val and Ian Wilson on the very last end by one point. Congratulations to all four finalists. On a more week to week basis we have our Warm Hub. It is not only designed to give you a warm space to help reduce heating bills but it’s a social space to make new friends and enjoy refreshments. All you need to do is turn up. Everyone is welcome. Times are 11am-3pm Monday and Wednesday.

If you would like to try short mat indoor bowls just give us a ring to arrange a time to suit or come along on our warm hub days and have a go. We hope to continue our fortnightly Bingo nights. Dates will be on our FB page or you can phone us. If you are interested in any of the above, which I’m sure you are and have any questions you can watch out FB page or contact John on 07833664121 or Agnes on 07918122415.

Senior Badminton

Monday afternoons 3.30-5.30pm at the Atholl Leisure Centre. £5 per session. New members welcome. Come along to a session. Rackets can be hired. If you need more information call David Ramsay on 01796 472781 or Pam Sim on 01796 470160.

FITNESS

Cutting your Calories

What’s the most popular New Year Resolution? Well, up there near the top would be losing weight. Chances are many people will have considered this, though reducing weight safely is a long game, and definitely not something where we should be looking for a quick fix. The most recent Scottish Health Survey (published in September 2021) suggested that levels of adult overweight and obesity are still worryingly high: 28% for obesity and 62% for overweight and obesity together. In the Covid world we now inhabit, 39% of adults reported that their weight had increased since the first lockdown began in March 2020, and research by the World Health Organisation suggests that in the UK the average person eats around 10% more calories than they need every day - over time that is likely to cause significant weight gain. So what can be done to help? A growing body of research suggests that a sound approach might be as simple as eating slower.

A recent study involved a group of individuals with varying weights, put in two main situations - eating a relaxed meal with no pressure, or in a restricted, fast food type environment. The results showed that participants ate less when eating slowly, and felt less hungry. The ‘slow’ meal averaged 22 minutes, involving small bites and deliberate chewing without concern for time: they consumed ~57g of food per minute. The ‘fast’ meal involved large bites and quick chewing - average time was about nine minutes, with fast eaters consuming ~88g per minute. Average water intake increased in both groups, but was greater when eating slowly – a definite advantage (see my previous articles on dehydration).

The research concluded that eating more slowly allowed people to develop a better sense of when they are ‘full’ (It takes about twenty minutes from the start of a meal for the brain to send out ‘full’ signals). Participants also consumed more liquid (water) when eating slowly. All very well, but that isn’t always easy in a pressured situation,

where we might be eating at a desk or whilst moving. Again the problem is exacerbated by the post Covid situation where folk may be working from home and grabbing food when they are not involved in work calls or meetings.

You might have noticed that the comments above expressly mentioned chewing – so, why chew? Chewing is actually the first stage of digestion. Your mouth contains enzymes that start to break down food, just like your stomach. We need to break down foods is so that nutrients can be more easily absorbed into the blood stream rather than passing through unused.

As with any study like this, there many be factors which have influenced the results, but overall the evidence suggests that eating slower is likely to result in both lower calorific intake and increased enjoyment of the meal. Overall this may be a better strategy for avoiding weight gain as opposed to promoting weight loss... but everyone needs to start somewhere. So, the potential benefits of slow eating include better digestion, better hydration, easier weight control, and greater satisfaction with meals. Meanwhile, eating quickly can lead to incomplete digestion, weight gain, and lower meal satisfaction. Here are a few ideas to start with:

• Sit down - don’t eat while watching TV, texting, etc. Pay attention to your food.

• Choose high-fibre foods - they take more time to chew

• Put down knives and forks between bites

• Use smaller plates or different utensils (like chopsticks, or just a fork)

• Set aside time to eat

If you’re worried about nutrition, your diet or food intake, consult your GP or a registered dietician.

with Alan Clinch

Pitlochry Path Group

The back end of 2022 saw the group construct a new section of path close to Edradour Distillery. The work is, subject to getting funding, part one of building a better surface from Edradour to the Black Spout Woods waterfall. November and December also saw the Path Group trying to make good the damage caused by extensive flooding at the start of November. We hope the temporary repairs will see us through the winter. The power of nature never ceases to surprise. It is always a salutary lesson to see the results of moving water.

All the Group’s members contribute their time and labour to maintain and improve our community path network. We have a brilliant group of volunteers who turn out on a regular basis. Financial help has been received from local trusts and from the local authority but help, in kind, is also received from other community minded folk. The Pitlochry Path Group would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank:

Atholl Estates, Alex Butters Landscaping, Atholl Palace Hotel, Alastair Fergusson, Contraflow Limited, Pitlochry Golf Club, Taiga Upland and Wilson Brothers Our fortnightly Thursday morning sessions will continue in 2023. There is much to do. If you fancy a wee bit of outdoor exercise in the beautiful Pitlochry countryside don’t hesitate to get in touch. For more information please contact either Cath Marshall (marshall16@marshall16.plus.com or 01796 470575) or Ian Sim (i.sim@btopenworld.com or 07772 430434).

Blair Atholl & Struan Community Council

Community-led action planning in Blair Atholl

This year, Blair Atholl is looking forward to a community-led action planning process, supported by the Blair Atholl & Struan Community Council and managed by the Cairngorms National Park Authority on our behalf. There is no shortage of interested people and community groups in Blair Atholl, and this will be our chance to come together and identify the issues, ideas and projects we would like to take forward over the next eight years, so that we can make the community a better place to live, work and visit.

Our last community plan was back in 2014. Some issues from then are familiar today – transport, health services, housing – but it will be good to revisit these in light of the new challenges we are facing today. If you’d like to get involved, please email Miranda at blairathollstruancc@outlook.com

Blair Atholl & Struan Initiative

We need your help

Are you good at sums and looking for a new project for 2023? The Blair Atholl & Struan Initiative (BAASI) needs a treasurer to look after its finances going forward. This isn’t an onerous task – there are not a lot of incomings and outgoings, and our books are reviewed every year by a professional accountant. But we do need someone to help us manage our accounts throughout the year. In case you are not aware, BAASI is a registered charity which looks after the Memorial Park in Blair Atholl on behalf of the community. It’s a great organisation, because it brings together so many groups in the community who care about the health and wellbeing of the residents.

If you’d like to find out more, please email Viv at blairathollstruaninitiative@gmail.com

Tenandry Kirk, Killiecrankie

Interim Moderator: Rev. Neil Glover

Session Clerks: Marion Faulds - 01796 472415

Sunday Service - 10.30am. All welcome.

Aberfeldy, Dull and Weem and Grantully, Logierait & Strathtay Parish Churches

Minister – Rev. Neil Glover - nglover@churchofscotland.org.uk 07779 280074

PA - Judy Ewer - judy.ewer@adwgls.org.uk 07836 565528

Regular Sunday Morning Worship

Dull and Weem Parish Church – 9.30am.

Please consult the website for the current information on our services. www.dullandweemparish.org

Strathtay, Grantully and Logierait Parish Churches -10.30am. Please consult the website for the current information on our services. www.glschurchofscotland.org

Aberfeldy Parish Church – 10.30am. Please consult the website for the current information on our services. www.aberfeldyparishchurch.org

We ‘meet up’ at our weekly Zoom Service - details can be found on all the Church Websites. 1st Sunday of the month is a joint service with Aberfeldy, Dull and Weem, and Grantully, Logierait & Strathtay (GLS) – 10.30am

February – Aberfeldy – 10.30am. March – Logierait. April - Dull and Weem. And then repeat! Church Based Activities

‘Warm Welcome Cafe’ and Stay and Play in Aberfeldy Parish Church on Tuesday mornings -teas, coffee, biscuits and homebaking - all free thanks to grant funding from Perth and Kinross CouncilCost of Living Fund and the Church of Scotland – Small Grants. Stay and Play 9.30 – 11.30am. Warm Welcome Café – 10am – 12pm

I am sure you have heard about Warm Banks or Cosy Spaces, both describe Government and Council initiatives to open up our public buildings as a warm space, for individuals to meet over the cold winter months. Aberfeldy Parish Church is making a start on a Tuesday morning. This plan can be extended if there is sufficient demand in the coming weeks.

If you would like to be involved, please contact Judy judy.ewer@adwgls.co.uk

Aberfeldy ‘Stay and Play’ - Aberfeldy Parish Church - Tuesday mornings 9.30 -11.30am – Lawers Hall

Aberfeldy Prayer Meeting - Aberfeldy Parish Church - 5.00pm every Wednesday evening in Farragon – all are welcome to come along.

Aberfeldy Alcoholics Anonymous - Aberfeldy Parish Church, Kitchen 7.30 – 9pm every Tuesday

Contact - 01887 820936.

Aberfeldy Quilting Group - Aberfeldy Parish Church, Lawers Hall – Thursdays - 11.am – 3pm

Contact Jane - 07771641390 or Annette - 07736384035.

Dull and Weem - Chit Chat Café - is 1st Monday of the month in the Macdonald Room, Dull and

Did You Know That Settling Down With a Good Book Can Positively Change Your Life?

When was the last time you read a book? If you’re one of countless people who don’t make a habit of reading regularly, you might be missing out.

Whether hardback, softback or Kindle, reading has a significant number of benefits, so here are 10 that make it worthwhile:

1. Mental Stimulation

Staying mentally stimulated can slow the progress of (or possibly even prevent) Alzheimer’s and Dementia, since keeping your brain active and engaged prevents it from losing power.

Just like any other muscle in the body, the brain requires exercise to keep it strong and healthy, so the phrase “use it or lose it” is particularly apt when it comes to your mind. Doing puzzles and playing games such as chess have also been found to be helpful with cognitive stimulation.

Research has confirmed that reading involves a complex network of circuits and signals in the brain. As your reading ability matures, those networks also get stronger and more sophisticated. MRI scans to measure the effect of reading a novel on the brain showed that throughout the reading period and for days afterward, brain connectivity increased, especially in the somatosensory cortex, the part of the brain that responds to physical sensations like movement and pain.

2. Stress Reduction

No matter how much stress you are under, it all just slips away when you lose yourself in a great story. A well-written novel can transport you to other realms, while an engaging article will distract you and keep you in the present moment, letting tensions drain away and allowing you to relax. A study found that 30 minutes of reading lowered blood pressure, heart rate, and feelings of psychological distress just as effectively as yoga did.

3. Knowledge

Everything you read fills your head with new bits of information, and you never know when it might come in handy!

4. Vocabulary Expansion

The more you read, the more words you gain exposure to, and they’ll inevitably make their way into your everyday vocabulary. Being articulate and well-spoken is of great help in any profession, and knowing that you can speak to higher-ups with self-confidence can be an enormous boost to your self-esteem. It could even aid in your career, as those who are well-read, wellspoken, and knowledgeable on a variety of topics tend to get promotions more quickly.

5. Memory Improvement

When you read a book, you have to remember an assortment of characters, their backgrounds, ambitions, history, and nuances, as well as the various arcs and sub-plots that weave their way through every story. That’s a fair bit to remember, but brains are marvellous things and can remember these things with relative ease.

Amazingly enough, every new memory you create forges new synapses (brain pathways) and strengthens existing ones, which assists in shortterm memory recall as well as stabilizing moods.

6. Stronger Analytical Thinking Skills

Have you ever solved the mystery yourself before finishing the book? If so, you were able to put critical and analytical thinking to work by taking note of all the details provided and sorting them out to determine “whodunnit”. Your brain’s working well Sherlock.

7. Improved Focus and Concentration

In our internet-crazed world, attention is drawn in a million different directions at once as we multi-task through every day.

In a single 5-minute span, the average person will divide their time between working on a task, checking email, texting, keeping an eye on twitter, monitoring their smartphone, and interacting with co-workers. This causes stress levels to rise, and lowers productivity.

When you read a book, all of your attention is focused on the story—the rest of the world just

falls away, and you can immerse yourself in every fine detail you’re absorbing.

Try reading for 15-20 minutes before work (i.e. on your morning commute, if you take public transport), and you’ll be surprised at how much more focused you are once you get to the office.

8. Better Writing Skills

This goes hand-in-hand with the expansion of your vocabulary.

Exposure to published, well-written work has a noted effect on one’s own writing, as observing the cadence, fluidity, and writing styles of other authors will invariably influence your own work.

In the same way that musicians influence one another and painters use techniques established by previous masters, so do writers learn how to craft prose by reading the works of others.

9. Tranquility

In addition to the relaxation that accompanies reading a good book, it’s possible that the subject you read about can bring about immense inner peace, tranquillity, lower blood pressure and bring about an immense sense of calm.

10. Free Entertainment

Though many of us like to buy books so we can

annotate them and dog-ear pages for future reference, they can be quite pricey.

For low-budget entertainment, you can visit your local library and bask in the glory of the countless tomes available there for free. Libraries have books on every subject imaginable, and since they rotate their stock and constantly get new books, you’ll never run out of reading materials. Encourage your kids to read as much as possible because the effects of reading are cumulative. Reading with your children also builds warm and happy associations with books, increasing the likelihood that they will find reading enjoyable in the future.

Reading at home can boost school performance later on. It also increases vocabulary, raises self-esteem, builds good communication skills, and strengthens the brain.

It’s never too late to begin taking advantage of the many physical and psychological benefits waiting for you in the pages of a good book.So, step away from your computer, crack open a book, and replenish your soul.

Willie

Ingredients

For the pudding

75g soft butter

75g light soft brown sugar

75g dark muscovado sugar

200g self-raising flour, plus extra for dusting

1 tbsp golden syrup

2 tbsp black treacle 2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

200g pitted dried eating dates

1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

For the toffee sauce

125g butter

75g light soft brown sugar

50g dark muscovado sugar

200ml double cream

sticky toffee pudding

Method

• Pre-heat the oven to 180C. Grease a 20cm (Brownie) tin thoroughly with 25g of the butter, then dust the inside with flour.

• Blend the remaining butter and sugar together with a food mixer. Slowly add the golden syrup, treacle, eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture and continue mixing. Turn the mixer down to a slow speed and add the flour. Once all combined, turn off the mixer.

• Put the dates in a saucepan with 300ml water and bring to the boil. Purée the water and date mixture until not quite smooth and add the bicarbonate of soda and vanilla extract. Quickly add this mixture to the flour and butter mix. Once combined, pour into the prepared tin and bake for 30 - 35 minutes until the top is springy to touch and the pudding is just starting to shrink from the edges of the tin.

• Remove from the oven and allow to cool, then turn out of the tin and cut into squares.

• To make the sauce, melt the butter and sugar together in a small pan, add the cream and bring to the boil. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce reaches the desired consistency, it should coat the back of a spoon.

• To serve, warm the sauce, then warm the pudding in the oven, or for a few seconds in the microwave and serve with ice-cream.

Weem Kirk. For further information please contact Liz Bruce - elizabeth_1_bruce@btinternet.com

Strathtay Coffee Break - The group meet every Wednesday in the John Kyd Hall, beside Strathtay Church at 10.30am - all are welcome to come along and join in!

Strathtay Quilting Group - John Kyd Hall 7 - 9pm on 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month. Contact Marie MacLeod - stytchandturn@btinternet.com

Please look at the church website for the latest information.

The Scottish Episcopal Church in Highland Perthshire Offers All a Warm And Inclusive Welcome

Part of the Diocese of St Andrews, Dunkeld and Dunblane

Rector: The Rev Canon Liz Baker 01796 472005: Email: bethmaybaker@yahoo.co.uk Lay Reader: Lesley Whitwood 01887 840416: Email: lesleywhitwood@btinternet.com Website: www.hplc.scot Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/highlandperthshirechurches

The Episcopal Churches In Highland Perthshire February 2023 are welcome at the services in all our churches and on Zoom. Check our website for updates.

Holy Trinity Church, Perth Road, Pitlochry -Contact - Robin Baker - 01796 472005. Holy Trinity is open daily throughout the year.

Sunday services - Normally 9.30am Holy Communion or All Age Communion.

Thursday Services – 10.30am Morning Prayer followed by Coffee and Cake.

22nd February Ash Wednesday 10.30am Holy Communion with Ashing (Joint for Whole Charge).

8th February 2.00pm Julian Group Meeting (Call the Rector for details of this Ecumenical Group).

Kilmaveonaig (St Adamnan’s Church), opposite former Tilt Hotel, Blair Atholl.

Contact - Mrs. Lavinia Gordon 01796 481230. Kilmaveonaig is open daily throughout the year.

Sundays at 11.15am - First Sunday All Age Communion third Sundays, Holy Communion. Second and fourth Sundays Matins/ Morning Prayer or Communion by Extension. St Andrew's, Church, Strathtay, opposite the local shop.

Contact - Ms. Lesley Whitwood 01887 840416.

Sundays at 11.15am - First Sundays Mattins, second and fourth Sundays Holy Communion; third Sundays Service of the Word/Communion by Extension; fifth Sundays Joint Service Church of Scotland.

House Group - Last Wednesday of the month contact Ms. Lesley Whitwood 01887 840416 for details.

All Saints, Kinloch Rannoch Square Contact - Reverend Canon Liz Baker 01796 472005.

5th February 9.30am Holy Communion. Online Zoom Services

Sundays - 6.00pm Evening Services (see Website for details).

Thursdays - 10.30am Morning Prayer – from Holy Trinity. Contact the Rector Liz for further details and Zoom invitations.

Pitlochry Baptist Church

Atholl Road, PH16 5BX

Pastor: Rev David Barrie (pastor@pbcweb.net) www.pbcweb.net

Keep up to date with us on both Facebook and Instagram

Sundays:

We gather from 10:30am at our church building on Atholl Road. If you’re exploring faith or looking for a place to call home, come as you are and join us. Our provision for the younger ones includecrèche (babies and pre-school), His Kidz (primary-aged children). We look forward to welcoming you.

Community:

We love being a part of our community - whether in Pitlochry, Kirkmichael, Kinloch Rannoch, Blair Atholl, Aberfeldy, and so on. Below is a selection of initiatives we thought you would like to know about: Community Larder - situated outside the Atholl Centre. Bring, or take, whatever is there. Everything is free and for the benefit of the community.

Cosy Café and WA soup lunch - Come join us on Fridays from 10am in a warm welcome space with the soup lunch starting 12pm. Located in the Atholl Centre behind our church building.

Food Bank - situated in the Atholl Centre behind our building. Contact 01796 473044 or admin@athollcentre.org.uk for information.

Heart & Soul - a topical mix of music, chat, news, community focus and issues, plus interviews every Sunday on Heartland FM from 8-9am (97.5FM & www.heartland.scot)

Make & Bake (nursery and primary children) - an after school, term-time event in the Aberfeldy Town Hall. Tuesday fortnightly from 3:30pm (January 31, February 14 & 28 and March 14 & 28) You will be most welcome! For more info call Gill on 07725 669816.

Sounds Inspirational - an hour of gospel, spiritual, and inspirational music with a wee bit of chat thrown in as well. Every Tuesday from 7pm on Heartland FM (97.5FM & www.heartland.scot). Repeated Thursdays at 10pm.

Stay & Play (babies and toddlers group) - a meeting place for anyone caring for pre-nursery aged children. For the children there’s plenty of play, craft, singing and energy sapping fun. In the church building, Wednesdays 10am-12pm during school term-time.

Youth Basketball - for secondary boys, Wednesdays, at the Atholl Leisure Centre, 7:15pm. Send a PM on our social media platforms or website for more information.

Blair Atholl & Struan Linked With Braes Of Rannoch And Foss & Rannoch

Interim Moderator: The Rev Grace Steele.

Phone – 01887 820025. Email – GSteele@churchofscotland.org.uk

Session Clerk Blair Atholl & Struan Harold Ingram 01796 481275

Session Clerk Braes of Rannoch ~~

Session Clerks Foss & Rannoch Robert and Elizabeth Anderson 01882632272

Blair Atholl and Struan Church – Weekly service in Blair Atholl Church at 11.15am. Coffee Corner is back in Blair Atholl Church Hall every Thursday at 10.00am – 12.00. All welcome Services in Rannoch are held weekly, at 9.45am at Braes of Rannoch and 11.30am at the Old Church, Kinloch Rannoch.

Pitlochry Church of Scotland

Interim Moderator: Rev Fraser Penny 01350 727 249

Session Clerk: 01796 472719

Website: www.pitlochrychurchofscotland.org.uk

Sunday Service - 10.30am. We invite you to join us, whether you live locally or are just visiting the area. Worship begins with a warm welcome, followed by a mix of music and words, ancient and modern. The wearing of masks within our building is now optional. Everyone is welcome for Tea, Coffee and Juice in The Tryst after the service. There will be a service of Communion on Sunday 5th March at 10.30am. Guild Meeting on Wednesday 8th February at 2.30 pm in The Tryst. UNIDA Project in Brazil followed by refreshments. All welcome.

Friday 3rd March – World Day of Prayer service from Taiwan: to be arranged. Tryst for Prayer: is on Wednesday’s 10am – 10.30am in the Tryst Warm Rooms: The Tryst Lounge will be open on Wednesdays from 10.30am to 3.30pm for this event. There will be a warm space for people to socialise and have refreshments, including soup lunch. If you would like to join us and keep warm do come along. All welcome. Wednesday Coffee and Chat: 10.30am – 11.45am Everyone is very welcome to catch up with friends, neighbours and to meet new people over tea, coffee and biscuits in the Tryst lounge. Table Tennis: meet weekly on Thursdays 2pm until 4pm in the Tryst Hall Church Office – The Tryst – Hours 9am – 11am, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Tel: 01796 474010 For details and availability of Tryst hire contact finance.pitlochry@gmail.com Tel: 07752470235.

Tryst Office for deliveries and other enquiries Tel: 01796 474010; email: thetryst@btconnect.com

ScotThoughts Podcast – Thoughts for the day, short stories, Parables, inspiration, Reflections, Hymn writers, sermons. Listen on Spotify or Anchor podcasts. Weekly Sermons are published on the Church website.

Jehovah’s Witnesses

What will the Kingdom accomplish when God’s will is done on Earth? Find out what the Bible says on the 5th February. The meetings are held at our Kingdom Hall in Moness Terrace, Aberfeldy. If you have a Bible, bring it with you; if you would like a Bible, we offer copies without charge. If you would like a lift to the meetings, please use the contact details below.

Thursday 2nd February, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: 1 Chronicles 7–9, ‘You Can Fulfill Challenging Assignments With Jehovah’s Help’, ‘Jehovah Helps Us Through Our Trials’, ‘Be Honest in All Things’.

Sunday 5th February, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘Do You Share God’s View of Life?’. A discussion: ‘We Can Live Forever (John 17:3)’.

Thursday 9th February, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: 1 Chronicles 10–12, ‘Strengthen Your Desire to Do God’s Will’, ‘Search for God’s Thinking’, ‘What the Bible Says About Work and Money (Part 1)’.

Sunday 12th February, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘Global Peace—From What Source?’. A discussion: ‘“You Will Be With Me in Paradise” (Luke 23:43)’.

Thursday 16th February, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: 1 Chronicles 13–16, ‘Following Direction Leads to Success’, ‘“The Love the Christ Has Compels Us” (2 Corinthians

5:14)’, ‘What the Bible Says About Work and Money (Part 2)’.

Sunday 19th February, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘How To Keep Spiritually Awake’. A discussion: ‘Find Peace During a Crisis (John 14:27)’.

Thursday 23rd February, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: 1 Chronicles 17–19, ‘Maintain Your Joy Despite Disappointments’, ‘God Has Requirements For Prayer’, ‘Appreciating the Gift of Life (Part 1)’.

Sunday 26th February, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘Follow the Course of Hospitality’. A discussion: ‘Help Others to Endure Difficult Times (Proverbs 3:27)’. Jehovah is the name of Jesus’s father; to witness is to share the truth. Enjoy a free study of the Bible at your convenience—ring or text 07 802 753 193. At www.jw.org you can study the Bible in a language of your choice, and, you can find the Bible’s answers to life’s questions.

St Bride’s Catholic Church

Parish Priest: Fr. Emmanuel Adindu Rie-Achan, Pitlochry PH16 5AL Tel. No: 01796 472174 E-mail address: stbridespitlochry@dunkelddiocese.org.uk

Also served by St. Brides; St. Columba’s, St. Mary’s Road, Birnam Saturday Vigil Mass at 6pm. Our Lady of Mercy Sunday at 9.30am. St. Bride’s Pitlochry Sunday at 11.30am, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 9.30am.

The Baha’i Faith

On Strikes and Justice- a Baha’i View Abdu’l Baha, son of Baha’u’llah, spoke in the early years of the 20th Century on the underlying issues of strikes: “Great difficulties have arisen and will continue to arise from this issue. …The root cause lies in the law of nature that governs present day civilization .. which results in a handful of people accumulating vast fortunes that far exceed their needs, while the greater number remain destitute and helpless. This is contrary to justice, to humanity, and to fairness.”

“…One must therefore enact such laws and regulations as will moderate the excessive fortunes of the few and meet the basic needs of the myriad millions of the poor, that a degree of moderation may be achieved… The wealthy [must] recognize the advantages of moderation in the acquisition of profits and show regard for the welfare of the poor and the needy.”

“For their part, the workers should not make excessive demands, be recalcitrant, or go on strike. Rather, the mutual and equitable rights of both parties should be officially fixed …according to the laws of justice and compassion, and any party that violates them, after a fair hearing, should be condemned.” A hundred years on, this advice still makes sense!

In her book on “Rethinking Justice”, Judge Nelson of the United States Court of Appeals and other colleagues have strongly condemned our current adversarial system of settling disputes. Mediation (i.e. with the services of a third party) is perceived as fairer and leads to greater compliance. Her ultimate conclusion, however, is that the Baha’i method of consultation works best in group decision-making. It encourages diversity of opinions, discourages the struggle for power common to traditional systems and cultivates openness and humility. The principle imbedded in this process is that “once a decision is made, it is incumbent on the entire group to act on it with unanimity.”

More information on Baha’i principles can be found on www.bahai.org

The Atholl Medical Centre

Ferry Road, Pitlochry. Tel: 01796 472558

Mon - Fri 8.00am - 6.00pm (Doors open at 8.30am)

Except Wednesdays Closed 12.15 - 1.45pm

Out with Surgery Hours NHS 24 - 111 Prescriptions - tay.amcprescriptions@nhs.scot

Pitlochry Community Hospital Ferry Road, Pitlochry. Tel: 01796 472052

Visiting Hours: GP Unit - Contact for further info. MIIU - Temporarily closed until further notice.

Kinloch Rannoch Medical Practice

The Surgery, Kinloch Rannoch. Tel: 01882 632216

The Reception is open Mon - Fri 8.00am - 6.00pm Surgery Hours 9-10.15am, 2-3pm and 4-5pm. For all urgent appointments please phone reception

Out with Surgery Hours NHS 24 - 111

Pitlochry Post Office

Within Premier Store

63 Atholl Road, Pitlochry. Tel: 01796 474301

Blair Atholl Post Office Tel: 01796 481233 Ballinluig Post Office Tel: 01796 482220 Strathtay Post Office Tel: 01887 840203 Kinloch Rannoch Post Office Tel: 01882 632347

Pitlochry Library

26 Atholl Road, Pitlochry Tel: 01796 474635 E-mail: pitlochrylibrary@pkc.gov.uk

Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri - Closed Thurs 10.00am - 1.00pm & 2.00pm - 7.00pm Sat 9.30am - 12.30pm

Housing & Community Safety and Registration Services

26 Atholl Road, Pitlochry Mon, Tues & Fri 8.45am - 12.30pm & 1.30pm - 5.00pm Appointments arranged out with these days 01738 476000 (select option 2) Registration of Births, Deaths & Marriages Mon - Fri: By Appointment 01796 474645

More Helpful Numbers to Hand

Help!

How to Crack Cryptic Crosswords

Cryptic crosswords can seem quite daunting, but the setters use some common devices to help you solve them. They don’t want you to fail!

In most clues, a definition of the answer (such as you would see in a quick crossword) will either be at the beginning or the end of the clue, while the rest of the clue is made up of the wordplay which should help you arrive at the definition. Here are a few types of clues which appear in most cryptic crosswords:

ANAGRAMS Look for a word which means something to do with movement, confusion or disorder, indicating that the letters in the word(s) next to it need to be re-arranged.

Example: Chirpy lot dancing where we are

The word dancing indicates an anagram. An anagram of chirpy lot is Pitlochry which is where we are.

WORDS HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT If there’s a word such as among, included or contained, it could mean that the answer is right there in the clue, with the letters in the correct order. Words such as clearly or obviously can also be used.

Example: Three kings plainly stinking

The word plainly indicates that the answer is in front of your eyes, and there it is across the first two words Three kings and reeking means stinking.

WORDS WITHIN WORDS If the answer is completely contained within another word, this is usually indicated by a word such as surround, cover, capture, insert, contain, even consume

Example: Snowstorm covers hill

The word covers indicates the answer is in another word, and snowstorm contains tor which is a hill.

HOMOPHONES These are indicated by words such as sounds like, on the radio or I hear that.

Example: We hear this loch is OK

We hear indicates a homophone, and OK means fine which sounds like Fyne which is a loch.

PARTICULAR LETTERS IN A WORD You might only need the first, last or middle letters of a word, in which case you’ll see beginning of, head of, leader of, end of, middle of, etc.

If all the letters except the first and last are required, this can be indicated by body of or contents of.

Example: If part of a clue is beginning of October, this can indicate that the answer includes the letter o, as it’s at the beginning of October.

SHORTENED WORDS If the first or last letter of a word in the clue should be dropped, this is shown by words such as heading off, or cut short Example: In a clue which includes … short stay, you would need the letters sta without the y. Alternatively, it could be a word which means stay which is then shortened, such as bide cut to bid.

DOUBLE DEFINITIONS In these clues, two different definitions of the answer are given, although there is nothing to indicate this.

Example: Go in Scots group

The answer to this is gang which is go in Scots (language), as well as meaning group.

SINGLE LETTERS Sometimes a word is used to represent a single letter, such as small, medium or large for s,m or l, right, run or river for r, hotel or hospital for h, parking for p, etc.

Example: If a clue uses the word parking, this could indicate that the answer has a p in it.

There are many, many more of these including the nato alphabet, such as echo for e.

Clues can also be a combination of the types listed above, including simple synonyms or part anagrams. The list is by no means exhaustive, but perhaps this has helped to shed some light!

The Pitlochry Crossword

By Lesley

ACROSS

7 It’s ice forming in Perth and Dundee, for example (6)

Val McDermid possibly knitted our hat! (6)

Talk, heading off to Ben y Vrackie perhaps (4)

Clan duel excited Perthshire hamlet (8) 11 Talked rubbish? He raved nonsensically! (7)

Finally makes it, the scramble up, like, a Munro? (5)

Pitlochry terrace appears in appendix once (5)

Haphazard wee bits - Pitlochry Life has one! (7)

Learn about origins of old Celtic heavenly body of water (4,4) 21 Venison bingo? (4) 22 Mother discarded way of serving tatties (6) 23 Apparently, Dundee persistently more profound (6)

DOWN 1 Came in unsteadily to The Birks? (6)

Dagger in scabbard, irksome (4)

Hunting and shooting done here - smashing teasets! (7)

Alexander on the beach? (5)

The least distressed people at Parkrun?! (8)

German city that is pretty (6)

Strangely hunched over contents of box on the road to Kirkmichael (8)

Place in Pitlochry for an American president (7)

Rob is perplexed about a line on a map (6)

Problem - mutineers held back Perthshire river (6)

Father and confused animal at Edinburgh zoo (5)

Run away from large angry northerner (4)

HOROSCOPES

BY CHRISTINE CHALKLIN

For February 2023

February pushes the humanitarian sign of Aquarius to the forefront, this sign is innovative and individualistic and strives for independence above all else. Connecting with your authentic self is the theme of the month and taskmaster Saturn, now in the last degrees of this sign, will enhance visionary and forward thinking for the good of all. The Chinese New Year arrived on the 22nd of January and lasts until February 2024. This year is the year of the Water Rabbit and according to tradition, hope, empathy and courage are strong themes; less anger and more relaxation is indicated. It also a year for major shifts in politics, watch out for a new wave of leaders to step up. Dynamic Mars picks up the pace during this month, ensuring that projects, Ideas and business matters should move along smoothly. The love planet Venus remains in soft and gentle Pisces until the 19th. Venus connects with Neptune on the 14th, suggesting that Valentine’s Day has the potential for a new romance or more spiritual bonding in an existing one. The full moon arrives in the regal and creative sign of Leo on the 5th and the new moon in Pisces falls on the 20th.

ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

Pioneering Mars in Gemini remains strong in your communication area all through February, suggesting that some excellent opportunities for innovative new ventures will be coming your way very soon. Love planet Venus arrives in your sign on the 20th, your social life should be on a roll now; there is much to be gained from group encounters and new friendships.

TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 21

Strong Aquarian energy is at the highpoint of your chart, indicating that now is the time for keeping an open mind on all your potential goals, including the previously dismissed ones. Venus, your ruling your ruling planet is in Pisces until the 19th, romantic matters are now also on a high – this could be a good time for taking time out with a partner to explore the world.

GEMINI MAY 22 - JUNE 21

Aquarian energy during February suggests that the pull to broaden your horizons and take up new lines of study becomes stronger than ever. Action planet Mars remains in your sign all month, this placement is quick and changeable, not so good for making long lasting decisions. The spiritual Pisces new moon on the 20th suggests a more intuitive approach to most things.

CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22

Finances, resources and investments are all under review this month as the independent minded Aquarian Sun illuminates this area of your chart. Take time out to make new plans concerning your career prospects, the time could soon be right to take the plunge and begin a brand new project. The powerful Leo full moon on the 5th offers a turning point – expect a creative development.

LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 23

The radiant Aquarian Sun and task master Saturn both occupy your opposite sign during February. This powerful energy is emphasising the fact that you might need to address any difficulties in your relationships. The full moon in your sign on the 5th throws some light on an issue that’s been troubling you for a while, good communication helps as a creative solution comes into view.

VIRGO AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 22

Mighty planet Jupiter, newly arrived in Aries, offers the potential for some big changes to your finances and resources; be on the lookout for some important new information related to better your financial plans. Planetary trends suggest that this is also a good time for restructuring a nutritional review, particularly around the new moon in your opposite sign on the 20th.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 23

Some new and exciting creative opportunities are suggested during February as the Sun and Saturn both occupy this important area of your chart. Innovative new ideas can flourish and with Saturn’s disciplined and practical outlook. They can be long Lasting. Romantic encounters are also in strong focus, particularly around the 20th as Venus arrives in Passionate Aries.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

The radiant Sun and stern Saturn in Aquarius are collectively illuminating your home and family life. Radical change could now be on the horizon, particularly around the Pisces new moon on the 20th. Mercury arrives in Aquarius on the 11th, good communication is essential as you look at new and innovate ways for moving forward, try to act with caution and deliberation.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 23

- DECEMBER 21

February’s powerful Leo full moon on the 5th highlights travel and all forms of further study. Pull out all the stops and get busy with major initiatives; your strong intuition now may prove to be spot on. Action planet Mars continues on through your opposite sign, enhancing your organisational skills and offering you the chance to view decisions in a very different light.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Communication planet Mercury remains in your sign until the 10th, it’s a good time for initiating any sort of practical change. Transformational Pluto is now in the last degrees of your sign suggesting there are many lose ends to tie up before you embark on an entirely new life journey. The Pisces new moon on the 20th offers a creative new way of getting your message across.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 18

February is your birthday month, Expansive planet Jupiter is strong and courageous in fiery Aries, indicating that you can communicate better now and get your ideas across to others – you have a store of mental energy which should be applied to good ideas. The Pisces new moon on the 20th highlights finances, use your analytical abilities and problem-solving skills to make important changes.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20

Power planet Mars in Gemini is strong in your domestic area this month; you should feel the urge to push ahead and review home and family matters with new found confidence and courage. Venus in your sign ensures that you are attractive to others and the new moon in your sign on the 20th enhances your intuitive ability, tuning in and trusting this will make the way ahead look so much clearer.

NAVIGATE YOUR WAY THROUGH these challenging times, and reach your fullest potential in 2023. Take a refreshing new look at the year ahead by booking an astrological reading now - Consultations are available on Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp or telephone.

Christine is a professional astrologer, offering private consultations in astrology, life coaching and Bach flower essences. If you would like to find out what the New Year 2023 has in store for you, please contact her to discuss your birth chart and book a consultation.

Christine Chalklin

Inspirational Astrologer and Life Coach

Email: christine_chalklin@hotmail.com Website: www.yourguidinglight.org

Mobile: 07813 483549 Find me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/restyleyourlife

Accommodation

The Atholl Palace Hotel 1,40

The Green Park Hotel 9

The Old Mill Inn 80

Attractions

Blair Athol Distillery 11

Pitlochry Festival Theatre 5

The Atholl Palace Hotel 1,40

The Old Mill Inn 80

Building Services

Artstyle Renovations 49

Brodies Timber 45

Done Maintenance 19

Duncan McLean 37

Dunkeld Plumbing 57

G Stewart Electrical 45 J W Lang Painter 49 J W Lang Tiler 43 M&A Fencing 57

McKenzie Strickland Architect 51 Morrison Joinery 49

Murthly Sawmill 43

Prime Plant Hire 24

RW Bell Green Energy 53

Sean Mclauchlan Electrical 57 S.L. Decoration Services 53

Stevie G Roofing 49

Suthers Stonemason 43

Trend Transformations 20

Business Services

ABSS 67

Discover Scotland 25

GrowBiz 14,33

Churches

Blair Atholl & Struan 66

Grandtully Logierait 58

Jehovah's Witnesses 68

Pitlochry Baptist Church 66

Pitlochry Church of Scotland 68 Scottish Episcopal Church 64 St Bride's Catholic Church 70

Tenandry Kirk 58

The Baha'i Faith 70

Carpets

Robert Gray Carpets 33

Computer Services

Computer Services 67

Heartland Tech 59

Community

Atholl Centre 44

Blair Atholl Bowling Club 52

Blair Atholl Struan CC 56 Blair Atholl Struan Initiative 56

Breadalbane Heritage Soc 18

Christmas Card Delivery 50 Edradour Pipe Band 50

GL&S Quilting Group 16

Hearing Aid Clinic 12

Heartland Film Society 14

Inner Wheel Club 22

Just Singin' Com Choir 26 KFT CC 26

Killiecrankie Village Hall 52

Neighbourhood Watch 38

Moulin Scot Country Dance 14

Music in Rannoch 22

Pitlochry Angling Club 26

Pitlochry Bowling Club 52

Pitlochry Choral Society 46

Pitlochry Climate Cafe 12

Pitlochry Flower Club 18

Pitlochry Library 48

Pitlochry Litter Action 16

Pitlochry Moulin History Soc 26

Pitlochry Path Group 56

Pitlochry Repair Cafe 12

Pitlochry Rotary Club 46

Pitlochry Station Bookshop 48

Pitlochry Town & Country Club 18 Rannoch History Society 22

Scottish Wildlife Trust 16 Senior Badminton 52 u3a 18 Vale of Atholl Pipe Band 50