Dinner is table d'hote and the menu is changed daily to introduce dishes and produce which are at their best on the day, and y ou can view the latest menu on ou r website. Special dietary adjustments can be made wi t h sensible prior notice.
£45.00 for 3 courses I £50.00 for 4 courses
Prices include complimentary s herry or soft drink on ar rival with coffee & homemade shortbread after dinner.
The Pitlochry Tipple
Ewan looks at the new officially recognised American single malt whiskey.
Your Community
All the news from our MPs, Clubs, Groups and Churches.
Winter Tyres
We look at all the advantages of having tyres suited to our winter weather.
The Pitlochry Garden
Sheila gives advice on planting common herbs around the garden.
Fitness With Alan Clinch
Alan looks at more core strengthening exercises to help with... mobility!
Willie's Wonky Computer
Willie looks at the latest printer fault diagnosis and repair scam.
Sudoku
Our Sudoku is also online this month, play every day and keep your brain active!
Saccharin
A quick look at the surprising history of our most popular artificial sweetener.
Recipe
This month we are going for a real hearty winter vegetable soup!
The Pitlochry Crossword
Lesley is back, to test your crossword ability, along with local and Scottish knowledge!
Welcome to the February edition of Pitlochry Life. Valentine’s Day and we are now seeing the lighter nights! February also sees the wonderful sight of snowdrops carpeting the landscape and brings hope that spring is not far away.
Let’s get off to a wonderful start then in 2025 with the Winter Words Festival and a huge welcome to Alan Cummings at the Festival Theatre. Go along to this great event and see some other well known faces!
For LIVE music, see a band at The Atholl Palace, The Coach House or The Old Mill Inn.
This month Ewan looks at American single malt whiskey in The Tipple, Sheila looks at planting common herbs around your garden - I might try lemon balm for my tea! Willie’s Computer page looks at a devious printer scam and Alan Clinch looks at more CORE exercises in the Fitness Column. Simple movements that give you a strong basis for going on to bigger things. In the recipe this month we have gone hale and hearty again, this time with an easy one-pot winter vegetable soup. Our editorials look at winter tyres, appropriately, and I reveal the surprising origin of Saccharin!
With so many hospitality and entertainment venues here in the town why not indulge yourself with breakfast, lunch or even dinner whilst soaking up the atmosphere and taking part in all the great productions and events. There is so much to see and do in Pitlochry it’s tough to fit it all in.
Have a great February and a fantastic 2025!
American Single Malt Whiskey Is Officially Recognised
There is some big news for whiskey lovers in the USA! American Single Malt has finally earned its stripes as an official whiskey category. The TTB (the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) has formalised the rules for what makes an American Single Malt, turning years of debate and anticipation into a reality. This is a huge deal for whiskey enthusiasts, craft distillers, and anyone who just loves a good dram in the US.
The Rules of the Game
Starting January 19, 2025, these are the rules to qualify as an American Single Malt:
• Where’s it made? It has to be mashed, distilled, and aged in the United States.
• What’s it made of? 100% malted barley. No corn, rye, or mystery grains are allowed.
• How’s it distilled? It gets distilled at no more than 160 proof (that’s 80% ABV).
• What about the barrels? It’s aged in oak barrels - either new or used - and those barrels can’t be more than 700 litres in size.
• Anything else? No neutral spirits or flavourings are allowed. Caramel colouring can be used but it must be disclosed. If the whiskey’s aged for at least two years, it can be described as “straight” on the label. However, there is no minimum age for it to be called Single Malt, interesting decision!
A Victory Nearly 10 Years in the Making
This didn’t happen overnight. Back in 2016, a group of craft distillers decided it was time for American Single Malt to get its due. These pioneers—calling themselves the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC)— started pushing for recognition. They rallied supporters and sent petitions, including one from big names like Westland Distillery and even drinks companies Rémy Cointreau and Diageo. For a while, the TTB seemed uninterested. But in
July 2022, they released a proposed definition— and now, here we are with a finalised version.
Of Course, Not Everyone Is Thrilled
Not surprisingly, some distillers weren’t convinced. Some wanted the rules to require all production (mashing, distilling, and ageing) to happen at the same distillery, like it does in Scotland. But that idea wasn’t approved, mainly because of distilleries like Seattle's Copperworks who rely on contract-brewed mash.
Others, like Bainbridge Organic, weren’t sold on the 100% malted barley rule. Chattanooga Whiskey suggested opening things up to allow for at least 51% malted barley, leaving room for other malted grains. And then there were debates about what kind of barrels should be used. Arizona’s Canyon Diablo Distillery argued that non-American oak barrels—or barrels previously used for non-American whiskeys— shouldn’t count. Why? I hear you ask; the answer was that they thought it would then be ‘not American enough’.
Pitlochry Repair Cafe is taking a break in January and will return on Sunday 2 February from 123pm at Moulin Hall.
Bring your items for repair - textiles, bikes, electronics, appliances, woodwork, furniture, toys and more! Enjoy hot drinks, homemade baking and soup while you wait. Repairs and refreshments are all free and donations are welcome. Kids and dogs are welcome too! Please don't bring a car unless you have to. Happy Festive Season and thanks to everyone who has supported our project in 2024! Here's to another year of fixing, learning and smiling!
Email: repaircafe@sprout-community-eco-hub.com or on Facebook / Instagram @ PitlochryRepairCafe
Dunkeld & District Strathspey & Reel Society - 3rd February
The Dunkeld and District Strathspey and Reel Society meet every Monday starting 3rd February during school term time in The Royal School of Dunkeld between 7.30 and 9.30pm, where we enjoy playing traditional and contemporary Scottish music together, under the guidance of our musical director and conductor Pete Clark.
We are a friendly group and welcome players of all instruments. There is an option to join either as a full member or to come along when you can and pay on the night. For further information visit our website at www.dunkeldstrathspeyandreel.org or email secretary@dunkeldstratheyandreel.org
Hearing Aid Drop-in Clinic - 4th February
Hearing Aid Drop-in Clinic at Pitlochry Community Hospital.
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 NHS Tayside volunteers will be here to help you on Tuesday 4th February 2025 between 10.00am - 12.00 noon at the Pitlochry Community Hospital.
Blair Atholl & Struan Community Council - 4th February
We are pleased to report that our new year begins with a new chair (Alastair Stephen, who brings years of local knowledge to the position). Otherwise, the councillors remain as before – Miranda Stevens (secretary), Giles Stevens (treasurer) and Viv Cree (minute secretary).
In order to give us more time to work on projects that matter for the community, we are now scheduling our formal meetings quarterly – the revised dates will be Tuesday 4 February (please note this is a change from the earlier date given), 13 May, 12 August and 11 November.
All our meetings take place at 7.30pm in the Armoury Room at Blair Atholl Village Hall and you are welcome to attend in person or to take part via a zoom link – this is never as good as actually being in the room but is better than not coming at all! In between times, we will continue to use our facebook page to let people know what’s happening in the community, and you can email us at any time on blairathollstruancc@outlook.com
With thanks and very best wishes for a fruitful year ahead, from Miranda Stephens.
Hearing Aid Drop-in Clinic - 5th February
Aberfeldy & Kinloch Rannoch Medical Practice (Wellbeing Room), Aberfeldy
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 NHS Tayside volunteers will be here to help you on Wednesday 5th February 2025 between 10.00am - 12.00 noon at the Aberfeldy & Kinloch Rannoch Medical Practice, (Wellbeing room), Aberfeldy.
Dementia Cafe - 5th February
North Church Hall, High Street, Perth
The cafe will be open from 10-12 on Wednesday, the 5th February and all are most welcome to attend whether worried about their memory or bringing in someone with a diagnosis of dementia. It is an opportunity to discuss with professionals or just relax with a cup of tea or coffee. There are also some delicious biscuits and cakes to enjoy.
We look forward to welcoming not only our regular visitors but some new faces too!
Mindfulness Evening - 5th February
Mindfulness Evenings, Pitlochry. You are welcome to join our informal group sharing time for relaxation through meditation, a cuppa and a laugh. We meet in the vestry behind the Episcopal Church, Atholl Road, on the first Wednesday of the month at 7pm.
Next dates: 5th February, 5th March.
Just Singin’ - Spring Term Starts - 5th February
A warm welcome awaits you at local Community Choir, Just Singin’.
Our Spring term (8 weeks) starts on Wednesday 5th February at 7.30pm in the upstairs room at Birnam Arts.
We are delighted to be welcoming well known local singing coach, Emma Neck, to lead us for the whole of this term. As always, we will simply be learning songs by ear, having fun and enjoying the company of other friendly folk who like to sing.
For further details, please have a look at our website www.justsingin.co.uk or better still, pop in and join us any night of our term, everyone is welcome!
Tryst Walking Group - 6th February
Thursday 6th February: Weem circular via the River Tay and Glassie (£3). This is a circular walk on tracks and paths. We start from Weem Church Car Park and walk down to the river and along to Wade Bridge. Continuing along the river bank we cross the Strathtay road and ascend to Glassie bunkhouse via Cuil. Crossing the Boltachan Burn we divert to the Weem Rock viewpoint then return to Weem. Height climbed 300 metres. Distance 6 miles. OS map 52. Please contact Maureen Holmes on 01796 473153 for further information. Please note: the walk organiser/ contact cannot be held responsible for any accident. Everyone walking does so at their own risk and should take due care.
Heartland Film Society at The Birks - 10th February
In February Heartland Film Society will host two events Monday 10 February at 7.00 pm.
This month’s regular monthly film is Totem - a poignant and emotionally expansive film set in a bustling Mexican household where seven-year-old Sol is caught up in a whirlwind of preparations for her father’s birthday.
28 February to 2 March - 2025 Aberfeldy Film Festival:
Childhood journeys - a weekend of films celebrating childhood and youth Fri 28 February 7.30pm - Little Miss Sunshine - An American tragicomedy around a child beauty pageant.
7.00pm Opening night special members’ event prior to the film
Sat 1 March 10.30am Homeward Bound: the incredible journey - a favourite with film lovers of all ages.
Sat 1 March 7.30pm - Scrapper - bittersweet story of young girl surviving on the edge of society. A beautifully photographed story of a fragile father-daughter relationship. Proceeds of raffle to be donated to Children First.
Sun 2 March 6.30pm - Boyhood - epic coming-of-age movie filmed over 12 years. A masterly time-lapse study depicting a boy’s journey to adulthood with outstanding performances by Ethan Hawke and Patricia Arquette.
For more details about the festival events go to www.heartlandfilmsociety.org.uk and for tickets go to www.birkscinema.co.uk
Heartland Film Society appreciates the support of Film Hub Scotland and is grateful for other donations from local businesses.
* A prize raffle will be held throughout the weekend.
* Donations from the festival proceeds will be made to Children First.
Litter Action Group - 11th February
The tourist season has almost finished but there are still some visitors about. It would be nice for residents and visitors if the town is really clean for the festive period 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 11th February
Dates for litterpicks in 2025 are: March 11th, April 8th, May 13th, June 10th, July 8th, August 12th, September 9th, October 14th, November 11th, December 9th.
We would like to thank those residents of Pitlochry who are not members of the litter picking 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.
Pitlochry & District Climate Café - 13th February
Some TOP 10 Predictions for 2025. Circular economy models will be widely adopted in 2025, focusing on product life extension, reuse and recycling. Sustainable packaging innovations will accelerate, with companies moving away from single-use plastics. Continued on page
GET TO GRIPS
WITH WINTER TYRES
Most of us, on buying a car, check the tyres and if good tread accept they are fine… and away we go. It’s not really that simple though. The majority of cars sold, whether new, or second hand, will come with summer tyres. These are designed for best performance in warmer weather. In the winter however, once it drops below 7 degrees, their level of performance - braking, handling and traction drops away particularly in the wet, mud, or snow.
THAT’S WHERE WINTER TYRES COME IN.
As the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, tyres transfer the energy from the engine to the road surface, providing stable travel and effective braking, withstanding weight transfers and absorbing shocks - keeping you safe while you’re driving. That’s why making the right choice between different types of tyres is so important. Whether a standard car, 4x4 or SUV, all vehicles are rated for a certain size of tyres, as well as a specific tyre speed index and tyre load index. Your choice should also take into consideration the weather conditions and their impact on the performance of your tyres, so your first choice will be between the three main categories of specific tyres:
SUMMER TYRES
These tyres, the most common and best-known type, are designed to work at temperatures above 7°C where they perform best on both dry and wet surfaces. They’re designed to deliver excellent results in terms of comfort and fuel consumption for road tyres. However, they are not so good in the cold as their rubber compound hardens, providing less grip. They are also very poorly suited to snow-covered roads, or at times, even getting out of an icy driveway.
WINTER TYRES
Also known as Snow Tyres, they are designed to perform at temperatures below 7°C, when they cope very well with wet and snow-covered surfaces. They are most commonly used to replace summer tyres for the winter season, which for a tyre is
when temperatures drop below 7°C. Winter tyre treads are easily recognisable as their tread features numerous, fine, deep cuts. These are commonly known as “sipes” and act like “claws”, ensuring optimal performance in dry, wet, snowy and icy terrain.
They have better grip than summer tyres in low temperatures as they are designed with:
• 10 times more sipes
• 3D self-locking sipes throughout the entire depth of the tread, which improve handling when driving on dry roads
• 10% more tyre tread depth, which provides flexibility on slippery roads.
Winter tyres also differ from summer tyres in terms of the chemical composition of their rubber. It is formulated to stay soft even in low temperatures, increasing its grip on slippery surfaces. Consequently, if you choose to use winter tyres during the winter period, it is safer to swap them with summer tyres once the temperature begins to rise again.
ALL SEASON TYRES
Also known as Cross Season tyres, they are hybrid tyres which can adapt to temperatures as low as -10°C and as high as +30°C. They combine the features of summer and winter tyres to create a tyre which can drive safely at any time of year, no matter the conditions. In temperatures above 7°C, all season tyres outperform winter tyres both on dry and soggy terrain, as well as being much quieter. Further benefits include not having to swap them throughout the year as is necessary with summer and winter tyres, saving you both time and energy.
Although all season tyres guarantee both safety and mobility when driving in the snow, they are not as effective as winter tyres, which remain the ultimate tyre where difficult driving conditions are concerned.
WINTER OR ALL SEASON TYRES:
Tips on choosing what’s right for you. The main element to consider is the kind of winter conditions you are likely to face with your vehicle. If you regularly encounter snowy roads, have to drive in very low temperatures, live in or must often travel to areas which are difficult to reach in winter (steep slopes, unploughed roads, etc.), then the best option for you is to use winter tyres. If, however, you only occasionally drive on snow-covered roads then all season tyres are your best choice. If you were previously a winter tyre user, switching to all season tyres will spare you the bi-annual tyre swap, saving you both time and energy.
Drivers tend to believe that snow and ice are the biggest hazards for winter driving. And yet, 9 accidents out of 10 occur on dry or wet roads, rather than road surfaces covered in snow or ice. Snow can be a hazard, but it’s far from the only one. Even in the winter, nearly 9 out of 10 incidents occur on a straight road. Why? you may ask. It’s a question of concentration. Drivers tend to be much more vigilant on bends, but when driving on straight city roads, with good visibility, they let their attention wander. As a result, the number of accidents is significantly higher in urban areas.
In conditions like these, your tyres play an even more important role, which is why it is important to equip your car with either winter tyres or all season tyres. Be wary though of only fitting 2 winter or all season tyres as they will give an imbalance of performance and grip, capable of catching you out when least expected, or when you really need it. Always fit them in fours.
Having to change your tyres twice a year can be inconvenient and may make you want to consider opting for 4 season tyres instead, if they suit your needs.
If you do choose winter tyres, it can be a lot easier to buy a ‘package’ that includes the wheels as well. It’s then possible to jack up the car and change the wheels, as and when required in the Autumn and again in Spring. Easier than having to go to a garage to have one set of tyres removed, the others fitted, then also paying for a wheel balance. Also, it’s as easy to store 4 wheels with tyres as it is to store 4 tyres. All the major manufacturers make winter and cross season tyres. Your choice will most likely be determined by either a brand, or your budget. What’s important though is you choose a ‘certified’ tyre. Winter and cross season tyres will be marked on their side-wall with either M+S, or with M+S and 3PMSF. M+S stands for mud and snow, but are not certified for such use. 3PMSF stands for 3 Peak Mountain Snow Flake (as per logo) and unlike the M+S marking alone, the 3PMSF marking indicates that the tyres meet EU standards and have passed a standardised test, ensuring that you will be able to drive safely in winter weather conditions. The 3PMSF marking and its 3 peak logo will also be accompanied by M+S.
CHOOSE WISELY.
Consumers, regulators, researchers, recyclers, suppliers and technology companies must all work together to drive sustainable outcomes. https://sustainabilitymag.com/top10/top-10-predictionsfor-2025
Dates for Climate Cafés in 2025. The Venue is the Pitlochry Library, at 7pm unless otherwise stated: Thursday 13th February, Thursday 13th March, Thursday 10th April, Thursday, 15th May and Thursday 12th June. For more information contact Carol Aitken at pitlochrydistrictcc@gmail.com
Join us at the next climate cafe on Thursday 13th February, with Angela Oakley. We will be discussing how the way we invest and spend our money can have a big impact on climate change, for example -
Switch to an ethical bank and encourage others to do the same. Invest ethically.
If you have spare cash, buy shares to have an influence on how companies are run.
Ask your pension company about their investments.
Check commitments from financial institutions are kept and actions properly delegated.
Ask your local council to divest from fossil fuel companies etc.
Boycott supermarkets, products, energy companies etc. whose policies damage the planet.
Join the Campaign for Fair Finance or other pressure groups.
Moulin Scottish Country Dance Class - 13th February
Moulin Scottish Country Dance Class, Moulin Hall, Pitlochry 7.30pm.
Come along and join us - you will be made very welcome. No specific partner needed, come by yourself or with a friend Good evidence for benefits to both mental and physical health. Our main aim on the night is to enjoy ourselves.
If you have not danced for a while then dust down the shoes and come along to Moulin Hall. Beginners welcome from 7pm.
No membership fee - £5.00 nightly.
Dates for February are Thursday 13th, 20th & 27th.
For further information contact June 01796 473488.
Mid Atholl & Strathtay SWI - 15th January
The February meeting to be held in Mid Atholl Hall on Wednesday 19th at 1.30pm.
Guest speaker to be Mark Bridgeman who will give us a talk on the History of the Local Area. Competitions - 3 Shortbread Fingers, Pin Cushion. Visitors Welcome
Rannoch History Society - 15th February
Peter McIntyre was a well-loved member of the community in Rannoch and Tummel, and now his grandson, Finlay McIntyre, has agreed to share with us some of the remarkable and entertaining stories which he learned from him. Finlay will be the speaker at Rannoch History Society on Saturday 15th February 2025, in the Village Hall, Kinloch Rannoch. The meeting will start at 2.30pm and, after the talk and conversation, will conclude with light refreshments around 4pm.
All are warmly welcome. There is ample parking near to the hall.
The admission charge for non-members is £5.
Scottish Wildlife Trust - 17th February
Get busy for bumblebees!
Did you know that it’s the start of the bumblebee surveying season? And that you could get involved?
Why not come along to the next talk hosted by the Pitlochry and Highland Perthshire branch of the Scottish Wildlife Trust to find out more!
Annie Ives is Project Officer for the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, working on a fascinating project called ‘Skills for Bees: Scotland’ – and she’ll be speaking at our next talk on February 17th in Pitlochry.
The aim of Skills for Bees is to improve long-term monitoring of bumblebees by empowering local people to identify and survey for bumblebees.
Annie will give us some insights into the lives of these precious pollinators, explain why they are so important, and give practical tips to those who might be interested in supporting bumblebee surveys in our area.
Even if surveying isn’t for you, it’s chance to learn more about the 20 different species of bumblebee we have in Scotland – and familiarise yourself with the Foggie Bummer!
Date: Monday 17th February 2025
Place: The Tryst, Church of Scotland, Church Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5EB.
Suggested donation: £3 for non-members, £2 for members (you can donate in person on the day).
Contact markandrosie@btinternet.com for more information. Sign up to hear about events and find out more about activities on the numerous reserves in our area and beyond.
The next meeting of Pitlochry & District u3a will be on Wednesday 19th of February
We will be joined by a speaker from Pitlochry and Moulin Heritage Centre who will be speaking about their collection of artefacts from our shared past as well as future plans.
We meet in the Atholl Centre and our meetings start at 2pm and refreshments are provided after the talk.
The u3a primarily brings together 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 interest groups which are led by one of our members - the emphasis is on learning from each other and having fun while doing so.
In between whole-group meetings, members take part in specialist interest groups. For further information please visit our website (https://pitlochry.u3asite.uk) or contact our secretary on smcairnx@hotmail.com with any queries.
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
Pitlochry Town & Country Club - 20th February
As I write this article we are now into 2025 & look forward to our New Year syllabus. Hoping that you all enjoyed a happy & healthy Festive Season.
On 20th February we are delighted to welcome Tom McEwan to illustrate & talk about our Twin Town of Confolens, which is in France.
The meetings are held in Aldour Community Hall on the 3rd Thursday of the month, from 2pm - 4 pm, including tea & home baking. Cost is £3 per meeting. If you need the use of the Community Bus, make contact at least the day before the meeting with Kathleen Scott telephone 01796 472765 Hope to see you there.
The Breadalbane Heritage Society - 21st February
The Breadalbane Heritage Society continues its regular winter programme of monthly illustrated talks with a presentation on rock art. This is of particular interest in this area, which is exceptionally rich in cupmarks, cup-and-ring marks and other carvings dating to the Bronze Age and Neolithic period. On Friday 21st February at 7.30 pm Dr Joana Valdez-Tullett will talk on ‘Rock Art from Loch Tay to the Atlantic Façade’. Dr Valdez-Tullett spent five years as a researcher with Historic Environment Scotland on their ‘Scotland’s Rock Art Project’ and now works with Wessex Archaeology as a Senior Project Officer. She will discuss the results of the research on rock art in the Loch Tay area and how carvings in this area relate to other areas in Scotland and the wider Atlantic façade. Please note that this talk will be presented on Zoom. For the link to attend it please contact Ian Stewart at bhsaberfeldy@gmail.com
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 and publications. Ongoing Society projects include the maintenance of the Killiehassie private burial ground in Strathtay, and the recent publication, in association with the Aberfeldy Museum Group, of an illustrated leaflet, The Aberfeldy and Weem Heritage Trail, with a trail map and information on the many places of interest in the area. QR codes with information at each of these sites are currently being installed. The BHS also provides a free service of assistance with family history research. Recordings of all the recent talks are available on the website.
Pitlochry and Moulin History Circle - 24th February
Our February talk is back on the usual Monday evening slot, 24th February at 7.30pm in the Pitlochry Tryst. Alan Crombie will be talking on "The Fishers of Fisher`s Hotel", how the Fisher family created Pitlochry's hospitality industry with help from an evangelical teetotaller. Intrigued? Come along on the 24th to find out more. £3 entrance and all are welcome
Tryst Walking Group - 26th February
Wednesday 26th February: 9 Mile Drive Falls of Bruar and Glen Banvie (£2). A circular walk starting at the House of Bruar (Grid ref: 823660). The walk heads up by the falls of Bruar and then continues to rise through woodland to meet the Banvie Burn. We follow the burn almost to Old Blair before returning via Buluain Wood. Height gained 100m. Distance 9 miles. OS map 43. Please contact Maureen Holmes on 01796 473153 for further information. Please note: the walk organiser/contact cannot be held responsible for any accident. Everyone walking does so at their own risk and should take due care.
Continued on page
The Pitlochry Garden
February
About now I get an insatiable appetite for fresh chives and it’s happened again this year! Scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, baked potatoes - I think the winter has gone on long enough and, now that the light is coming back into our days, I realise I have been in the barn too long. Fresh herbs are growing in the sun in little pots in the window but that is not enough. Herbs have been in cultivation for a very long time. For ages these helpful plants have been used as medicine, as cosmetics, for dyeing cloth and for cooking.
Many common garden plants and weeds are herbs and some of them are edible; however, some of them are fairly poisonous. Several dangerous plants closely resemble safe ones so, if you are keen on foraging, don’t pick anything unless you can identify it.
Nowadays, for most people, it is how the herb changes the taste of our food that is most important. A herb bed in a sunny position is easy to make and a dozen or so plants will keep you supplied in the kitchen all year.
Most herbs are perennial plants with a woody structure; these generally come from the Mediterranean region so they need sharp drainage and are happy in poor soil as long as they are out of cold easterly winds. My favourites are sage, rosemary and thyme but oregano and marjoram are also easy to grow.
Chives and parsley grow well together and they don’t mind a semi-sunny place so if you are short of room you can put them at the front of
the border or even in a window box. Another plant I wouldn’t want to be without is fresh mint but that really does have to be contained as it runs at the root; a large pot or a bed of its own will keep it in check. Thyme and mint come in dozens of flavours so have a taste when you’re shopping.
If you like to eat fish then sowing some dill every year will provide you with lovely feathery aromatic leaves to cook with salmon or chop into mayonnaise. Chervil and tarragon are also annuals but they won’t mind going into the border or growing in a pot.
Bay is often sold as a standard or well-grown bush but it is only hardy here all winter if you get lucky. I would grow it in a pot and be prepared to give it an unheated greenhouse or a cold porch during the coldest months.
If you are short of space but have room for some vegetable beds, herbs make good companion plants for some crops: mint or oregano can grow beside cabbage and potatoes and parsley can go under roses or else next to tomatoes in the greenhouse.
Some argue that herbs contain micronutrients that are not found in other foods which is why we crave them added to our foods. All I know is that it lifts my spirits to chop them into every meal one way or another.
Sheila Drummond
Inner Wheel Club of Pitlochry - 28th February
We are looking forward to welcoming Alan Norris, Rotary President, will be our speaker to our meeting on Thursday 28th February finding out more about their work.
We will also be holding a quiz on Saturday 1st March. Please see our Facebook page for further information.
Members marked Inner Wheel Day on January 10th by making donations to the local Foodbank and enjoying a soup lunch at the Atholl Centre.
Inner Wheel is an international women's organisation with an emphasis on service with friendship and international understanding. We use our skills to raise money and support communities locally, nationally and internationally. We achieve this through monthly supper meetings with informative and entertaining speakers, social gatherings and community service.
If you would like to know about Inner Wheel then please email innerwheelpitlochry@gmail.com or visit us on Facebook Page www.facebook.com/InnerWheelPitlochry
Killiecrankie, Fincastle & Tummel CC - 17th March
Minutes of the first meeting of 2025 of Killiecrankie Fincastle & Tummel Community Council are on the website: www.killiecrankievillagehall.co.uk/community-council
The next meeting will be held on 17 March in Killiecrankie Village Hall. If you prefer to have Minutes and news sent directly to you, then please join our mailing list. Just email info@kftcommunitycouncil.co.uk and we will add your name.
Dave Doogan MP - Angus and Perthshire Glens - SNP
Radio Teleswitch Service decommissioning
There are changes coming for electricity customers on Total Heating with Total Control (THTC), and it is vital people know what to do about them and when.
This affects 4665 constituents across the whole of Angus and Perthshire Glens, 80,000 across the North of Scotland and 800,000 across the GB energy market.
It is the ending of the Radio Teleswitch Service, or RTS. The RTS controls RTS meters by sending the radio signal necessary for switching between peak and off-peak rates. It can also directly control energy supply for heating and hot water for Total Heating Total Control (THTC) customers. This system will come to an end on 30th June 2025 after the original target of March 31st March 24 was missed.
THTC customers are therefore being asked to switch to smart meters to avoid their system becoming inoperable. In practice, this could mean customers on this system have their heating and/or hot water continually left on or off, or that the heater charging happens at the wrong time of day.
Constituents have contacted me concerned that they are being asked to switch to smart meters without guarantees that a smart meter will work properly in their property.
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Core Exercises to Improve… Mobility
Last month’s article looked at some exercises which you might do in order to develop some stability in the core (the area between the middle of the thigh and lower back). If you’ve had the opportunity to try some of them and started to develop some improvements in stability, you can start to work on movement: remember though, this really is a case of don’t run until you can walk! As before, start with a target of 20 seconds for each exercise (it will be quite difficult). Aim to slowly increase to 30 seconds over a period of weeks, and try two sets of each exercise to begin with (but one will do).
Slow Superman
Start on your hands and knees, hands shoulder width and knees hip distance apart. If you can’t put your hand in the position shown it’s OK to use a fist. Brace the core (see last month) and extend the right leg behind. Keep the foot level with the hip. Next, extend the left arm forward (thumb facing up). Keep the arm level with the shoulder: this is picture 1. Move the left elbow and right knee toward each other and then extend back to the starting position (without putting them on the ground). Complete one set of 5 on the first side and then repeat on the opposite side (This should take you about 20 seconds). Once you become comfortable with the exercise, try to increase the number of repetitions.
Plank With Hip Flexion
knee in toward the chest (4) and return to the starting position. Alternate knees. This is a difficult exercise as it puts quite a bit of stress through the wrists, so if that’s uncomfortable you can adopt a plank type position using the elbows and a chair (see picture 4A)
Lie on your back, place the feet onto floor, arms by sides and palms to the floor (5). Brace the core and lift hips upward (6). Hold for three seconds and slowly release the spine and hips back to the floor. To make this harder, lift one foot off the floor when the hips are lifted (7).
Side Plank with Rotation
Again, really quite a demanding exercise, so only try this if you’re proficient at all of the others. Lie on the right side, place right forearm on the floor. Bend the right knee to 90 degrees and lift the hips off the ground. Reach the left arm above the shoulder (8), with the palm facing forward. Don’t be tempted to drop the head down. Rotate chest toward the floor and bring the left arm under the ribs (9). Continue the set and then switch sides. A harder variation uses a straight arm (see picture 10). Careful of this though - excellent strength and balance is essential!
Start in a press up position (3), with hands shoulder width and knees hip distance apart, weight on the balls of the feet. Brace the core and remember to breathe. Slowly, pull the right
As ever: if you haven’t exercised for a while, or have any medical conditions which might cause problems, check with your Doctor to ensure it’s safe to increase your activity levels. Remember, pain is a sign that something is wrong….
Hip Bridge
Willie’s Wonky Computer Factory
The Great Printer Help Scam
There is nothing more infuriating than a printer that plays up, or just refuses to print. They suffer all sorts of problems with paper getting jammed, failing to connect to your wi-fi or just not responding at all.
The accompanying manual is not always great help when troubleshooting and you usually end up turning to Google in search of help.
This is where the scammers come in and they are clever. They know that by the time you reach for Google, you are exasperated, ready to throw the printer out the window and desperate for a simple solution to the problem.
The most common printers are HP, Canon and Samsung. So say, for example, you Googled ‘HP printer help’, the results page will fill with really useful web results from knowledgeable Tech Support companies offering a quick and easy solution to your problem. The first four or five listings will be ‘Sponsored’ and you probably won’t notice the official HP site further down the list.
Some of these ‘Sponsored’ results are completely bogus and operated by scammers. Yes, Google does eventually identify these results for what they are and remove them, or block your access to them, but the scammers stay ahead by constantly changing their web address.
The results will include the likes ofmegadrive[dot]solutions, geeksprosoftwareprints[dot]org, select-easy123print[dot]com and printcaretech[dot]com
Anyway… in your eagerness to resolve your printer issues, you will click on one offering simple to follow guides to get your printer working again, and you’ve just been hooked. Here’s how the scam works -
After clicking on a malicious ad, the website instructs you to enter your printer’s make, model number and sometimes a description of the fault. It will then advise you that your printer driver is out of date and you should download an updated version ‘by clicking the
link below’ in order to download the required driver.
A driver is a software program that your computer uses to talk to physical hardware (i.e. your printer). In the early Microsoft Windows days, drivers were very important to get printers, monitors and other peripherals working. Today however, Windows is good at detecting new hardware and installing the required drivers automatically. It will also keep the driver up to date, probably without you even realising. There are some exceptions, as some manufacturers like to package additional software with their drivers.
So you click the button and the new driver proceeds to ‘install’. This is entirely fake, and the only thing the website displays is a recorded animation that will always end up with the same error message, along the lines of - ‘Fatal error occurred during the printer installation!’ It will provide some reason, normally due to some network error. All is not lost though as a box pops up warning not to retry the installation again, as it could damage your printer, or invalidate your warranty and offers ‘ TO FIX THIS ERROR - START A LIVE CHAT’ or ‘CALL THIS NUMBER NOW’
That connects you to a scammer who will impersonate a popular brand support agent. They will ask for personal information and most probably will ask to be granted remote access to your computer. That then allows them to do several things, such as stealing your data, locking the computer to hold you to ransom or using it to log into your bank. They will not fix your printer!
The lesson here is be very wary of online search adverts. A good anti-malware program can block such ads and prevents access to their webs.
If you need help, always look for the manufacturers own web, where you will find a troubleshooting section in their Support page and often access to an online users forum which is a good place to start.
Be careful out there :o) Willie
This is a valid concern given the number of smart meters that, once fitted, cease working or never worked correctly in the first place. But the energy companies can and will take much greater care when replacing THTC meters with smart meters as this is not simply about cost information, the smart meter will actually control the system so nothing can be left to chance.
Smart meter information is transmitted over a wide area network, sent from each property’s communications hub. In central and southern GB, smart meter data is transmitted using mobile phone signals provided by Virgin Media O2 but in the north of England and Scotland, it’s transmitted over long-range radio provided by Arqiva.
When a smart meter is installed in a THTC customer’s home the engineer will ensure it is working properly and controlling the system with a two-way signal which is functioning. On the very rare occasions where a signal cannot be maintained customers may have a timed meter installed to provide a reliable service.
What is not an option is continuing with the current system past June 2025. The signal will stop and so will THTC, so I urge customers to get in touch with their energy company to get the ball rolling on this priority as soon as possible.
John Swinney MSP - Perthshire North - SNP
I would like to wish my constituents a Happy New Year. I hope that you all enjoyed a restful festive period and that you enter 2025 with optimism and hope.
Both in my role as your constituency MSP and as First Minister of Scotland, I am working flat-out to ensure that I am delivering for the people of Highland Perthshire and the surrounding areas.
I have already held a round of constituency surgeries, with more scheduled in the weeks to come. I aim to hold surgeries at least once a week, which allow my constituents to meet with me to discuss any issues they feel I can help them with. Should you feel that I can offer assistance, please contact my office via 01250 876 576 to arrange an appointment.
2025 promises to be a busy and eventful year across Highland Perthshire.
By the time you read this, work will have started on raising the level of the platforms at Dunkeld and Birnam train station. This has been a campaign that I have been involved with over a number of years that, due to the logistical difficulties of the work, has proved challenging to move forward. To that end, I am delighted that we have now reached such an important milestone on this journey. The raised platforms will vastly improve passenger safety and will hopefully see an end to the very unfortunate injuries that commuters have too frequently suffered when alighting from trains at the station.
The works are scheduled to be completed by the end of May this year and will be widely welcomed by all in the community.
I am grateful to all those involved in bringing these plans to fruition, particularly the members of the local community who have worked tirelessly to advance this issue.
This is a fabulous example of what can happen when a local community comes together to solve an issue, and I am delighted to have assisted in these efforts.
One of the great strengths of Highland Perthshire is that it is populated by communities of engaged, passionate citizens who are willing to put in the effort to improve their local areas. I truly believe that this is the most effective way to drive change on a local level. I will continue to engage with these efforts in the months and years to come and look to offer any support that I can.
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I wish all Pitlochry Life readers all the best for 2025.
The New Year got off to a difficult start with many people catching the flu and this was accompanied by freezing temperatures across the country. I was told the annual New Year celebrations at Pitlochry went down well. The appeal of this event cannot be understated with thousands of visitors from around Scotland, and some from abroad, travelling to the Highland Perthshire town, to enjoy music and dancing on New Year’s Day.
Special praise must be given to the volunteers who dedicate their time to help organise the event.
Looking back at 2024, it is safe to say it was a major and historic year in the business of politics, both in Scotland and the United Kingdom. We saw the resignation of former First Minister Humza Yousaf who was replaced by John Swinney and then Labour swept to power in July following the UK General Election. This seismic shift also saw the former Prime Minister and leader of the Conservative Party, Rishi Sunak, stepped down to be replaced by Kemi Badenoch, who became the first black leader of a political party in the UK.
Meanwhile, Douglas Ross stood down as leader of the Scottish Conservatives and was replaced by Russell Findlay. Both leaders have difficult jobs ahead but I feel that although it is early days, they have already shown they are up for the battle.
Locally, I was delighted to see The Old Manse of Blair be included in the world famous 2025 Michelin Guide, which is an incredible achievement. The five-star hotel and restaurant is located within a private estate on the outskirts of Blair Atholl in the Cairngorm National Park. I recently lodged and circulated a Motion at the Scottish Parliament congratulating the hotel on this fantastic accolade.
The Michelin Guide inspectors commended the restaurant for its ‘Scottish-inspired cooking,’ inventive use of local ingredients, exceptional service, and a relaxed and elegant ambience. The hotel’s chef Scott Davies previously worked at the acclaimed Three Chimneys Restaurant with Rooms, located on the Isle of Skye.
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
Pitlochry and District Neighbourhood Watch
“Take Five”
It’s easy to be tricked into providing personal or financial information to a scammer. You can be panicked into responding, caught off guard or lulled into a false sense of security. That’s what the scammers are banking on and it happens to lots of people every day. However, we can make it harder for the scammers by being aware of their tactics and “Taking Five”.
“Take Five” is a national campaign to help protect us from email, phone and online scams. It asks us to:
Stop: Give yourself a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information.
Challenge: Question whether the caller/emailer is genuine. It’s OK to reject, refuse or ignore. Only criminals will try to rush you or panic you.
Protect: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam.
For a guide to protecting yourself from fraudsters, go to www.takefive-stopfraud.org.uk
Across
Reporting Scams and suspected scams
Scams: Report all scams to Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) or online at www.consumeradvice.scot
Suspicious Emails: Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk and send links from websites which you think are trying to scam the public to the National Cyber Security Centre's scam website reporting service at www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/about-this-website/report-scamwebsite
Suspicious Text Messages: Forward suspicious text messages to 7726. The free-of-charge ‘7726’ service enables your provider to investigate and take action if malicious content is found. Calls allegedly from your Bank or Telecoms provider: If you receive a call about fraudulent activity on your Bank Account or from someone saying they are from your telecoms provider, you can check if the call is genuine by dialing 159. Most major banks and telecoms companies are covered.
Neighbourhood Watch Alerts
You can sign up for Neighbourhood Watch Alerts at www.neighbourhoodwatchscotland.co.uk or join your local Watch. Contact Cath Marshall, Secretary of Pitlochry Neighbourhood Watch on 01796 470575 to check if there is one where you live.
Fraud If you have been the victim of fraud, please report it to Police Scotland on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
Winter Coat Rail 2025
Atholl Centre Pitlochry
Office hours
Atholl Centre Office open hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday – Friday 10.00am – 4.00pm. Wednesdays 10.00am – 1.00pm
Its that chilly time of year again. Please bring along any coats that you no longer wear, and donate to our Coat Rail. If you need a warm winter coat, please come to receive one completely free. We already have several coats in, they must all find new homes! See office open hours above.
Food Bank Perth & Kinross Referrals only. Please ask if you need some help to cope with the increased cost of living, or applying for your referral.
NB: Emergency contact number: 07443 738240
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, avoiding food waste & supporting many with the rising prices at this time. New Fridge & Freezer Community Larder located by the back door of the Atholl Centre.
Volunteers Welcome
Please come and introduce yourself to us, if you would be interested in becoming a Volunteer worker in the Food Bank or doing the work of the Atholl Centre. We host holiday retreats, Church retreats, disabled holidays, & Community meetings throughout the year. Call in to the office, or call 01796 473044
Warm Welcome Cookery Classes
We are planning a set of 4 classes in the Atholl Centre kitchen, to take place during March 2025. Please call into the office to find out more, if you would like to enrol. This will be funded by PKC Warm Welcome, and will be free to all taking part.
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Braes of Taymouth, Kenmore
Volunteers Welcome
Please come and introduce yourself to us, if you would be interested in becoming a Volunteer worker in the Food Bank or doing the work of the Atholl Centre. We host holiday retreats, Church retreats, disabled holidays, & Community meetings throughout the year. Call in to the office, or call 01796 473044
Changing Places Toilet
Fully equipped Restroom facility for the disabled.
Please note office open hours, or call to book in advance 07747 755 194.
Helen Kirkwood, Atholl Baptist Centre SCIO15113, Atholl Centre, Atholl Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5BX
Further information from 01796 473044.
Pitlochry Rotary Club
As we do every year at this time, we invite our community to nominate a worthy candidate for our Citizen of the Year Trophy, 2025!
We are looking for candidates who you consider really demonstrate care for others in the community and give time to deal with the many challenges that arise in the very special environment that is Pitlochry. You can send your nomination to: secretary@pitlochry. rotary1010.org by no later than 25th March.
We are grateful to RW Bell for the continued sponsorship. If you have not yet bought your copy of the Pitlochry Life publication: Pitlochry People & Place book, do so now. We have had some amazing feedback from those who did. It is a keeper - a lovely souvenir that will bring back fond memories of Pitlochry in 2024/ 2025 for years to come. A perfect gift for any occasion at the reasonable price of £20.
Get your copy at one of the many outlets in town, including: the Leather Shop, MacNaughtons, Scottish Shop, Birdie, Robertsons, both the Homeware and Hardware shops, Coorie in the Corner, the Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre and the Pitlochry Festival Theatre. There are many more shops who kindly volunteered to sell these for us, so keep your eyes peeled! If you don’t live in Pitlochry, we can mail a copy for you! All proceeds will go to Charity.
Pitlochry Town Hall Goup Survey
An Expression of Interest has been submitted to Perth & Kinross Council (PKC) to undertake a Community Asset Transfer (CAT) of Pitlochry Town Hall (PTH) following the Asset Review conducted by PKC late last year. A small executive committee has formed to proceed with the CAT and submitted an application to OSCR seeking SCIO status. This has now been granted and Pitlochry Town Hall is now a charitable organisation. Funding applications have been submitted to various organisations for funding towards a building feasibility study. This study will help to identify if PTH is a viable building for a CAT. This survey is currently underway and will be completed by the end of January 2025.
Key to the success of the CAT is the recruitment of a strong board of trustees to take the project forward. Members of the community with knowledge of business planning, project management and fundraising would be particularly welcome. Anyone who is interested in supporting PTH should get in touch via email –pitlochrytownhallgroup@gmail.com
Another crucial part of the CAT process is community consultation. We would welcome any suggestions and ideas – there are three things you can do to help:
1. Please fill in our online survey - https://forms.gle/9fHDD3vyAntAKz5U8
2. And sign our Change.Org petition - www.change.org/Save_Pitlochry_Town_Hall
Paper copies of the survey are available from the Pitlochry Homeware shop and the Pitlochry Co-op, where there is also a box to return completed surveys.
Please show your support!
Local Christmas Card Delivery Service
The local Christmas Card Delivery Service, which took place at Victoria’s Restaurant from 9th to 13th December, raised a fantastic £1,400. This was split 50:50 between the Food Bank and the Senior Citizens’ Bus.
Thank you to everyone who used the service and contributed so generously. A big “thank you” too, to all our volunteer sorters and deliverers, who worked so enthusiastically as usual and to the staff of Victoria’s for their fabulous hospitality.
Your support is very much appreciated.
Dunkeld & Birnam Traditional Youth Music Group
We now have group lessons for fiddle, piano-accordion, guitar and whistle available as well as our junior and senior bands open to ages P5 – S6.
Classes and bands are completely free to attend and we provide instruments for anyone who joins us. We couldn’t manage this without the funding and kind donations we receive, so as always, our thanks go to SSE Renewables, National Lottery, Gordon Duncan Memorial Trust, Basil Death Trust, Scops Arts Trust, The Lang Foundation, Hugh Fraser Foundation and Enchanted Forest for their funding, and all of the local residents and groups for their generosity and support.
We’re on the hunt for small guitars, so if you have any hanging around your house we’ll happily take them.
½ hour group lessons - Mondays 4-6pm
Junior trad band (P5-S2) - Mondays 6:30-7:30pm
Senior trad band (S3-S6) - Mondays 7:30-8:30pm
Our bands are for those who can already play at least a little and are open to accordion, string, wind and brass players, guitarists, pianists and more. All are based at Birnam Arts and run through term time. Find us at www.facebook.com/dbtradgroup
Email dbtradgroup@gmail.com or call 07958 324 766 for more info.
Pitlochry Library
Bookbug session - every Thursday 9.15am - 9.45am Come and join us for a session of songs, stories, and rhymes for under 5s. Prebooking for each session is essential. Please get in touch with the library to book a spot.
Community Knitting Group - every Thursday 11am - 12.45pm Do you like to knit or want to learn? Come along to our community knitting group that meets weekly in the library. We can provide everything you need to get started!
Books on Wheels - For individuals who cannot get out and about to visit the library, this includes books in large print and audio formats. For further information, please get in touch with the library. Recycling - All libraries accept used stamps and batteries for recycling. Princh Printing. Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries have installed Princh, a new printing solution in libraries across Perth and Kinross, including Pitlochry Library. With Princh, it is now possible to print from any mobile device, tablet, or laptop from home or in one of our participating libraries. Just print, pay online and pick up your items. You can send your print jobs at any time from any place, and what's more, you no longer have to wait in line at the printer.
Details can be found on our website www.culturepk.org.uk/libraries/internet-and-computers/ princh-printing
We started 2025 with some great news having secured more than £90,000 in funding to help us continue our work supporting the local community. Thanks to funding from the Gannochy Trust, we have secured the positions of our project officer and development officer for a further three years. The roles have proved to be a valuable addition to the Trust with PCAT - and by extension the wider community –benefitting from the expertise, knowledge and professionalism that they bring.
We were also successful in an application to Perth and Kinross Council’s Community Environment Challenge Fund. This grant will go towards enhancing the bus stop area in the town centre. Work has started on the landscaping and we’re looking forward to seeing the results in the very near future.
This project follows on from us organising removal of the rotten tree in the canopy and facilitating the refurbishment of the information board by the bus stop, which was done with the help of Pitlochry Partnership, Pitlochry in Bloom, Pitlochry Path Group, PKC Greenspace, Dougie McPhee Tree Maintenance Services, Paul Phillips Home and Garden Services, and Perth Signs and Designs.
We continue to support Pitlochry Town Hall Group as it explores a potential community asset transfer of Pitlochry Town Hall and were delighted to secure funding of nearly £30,000 from the United Kingdom Shared Prosperity Fund to cover the costs of the architectural services and buildings and other surveys that need to be undertaken as part of this. Congratulations also to PTHG on recently becoming a registered charity!
PCAT is a charitable development trust dedicated to working with the community of Pitlochry and Moulin. Everything we do is informed by the aspirations set out in the community action plan for the area, which you can read online at www.pitlochryaction.org.uk/community-action-plan
This Month’s Easy 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!
Saccharin is one of the oldest artificial sweeteners and has a fascinating history rooted in scientific discovery. It was discovered in 1879 by Constantin Fahlberg, a chemist working in Ira Remsen’s laboratory at Johns Hopkins University. Fahlberg stumbled upon saccharin’s sweetness while working on coal tar derivatives, inadvertently tasting the compound, after neglecting to wash his hands. Coal Tar derivatives include creosote, tar, pitch, bismuth which is used as an antimicrobial in wound dressings and paracetamol, would you believe? Recognising the potential for saccharine he patented the substance in 1884 and began producing it as a sugar substitute. During its early years, saccharin’s use was limited to diabetic patients who needed a
Saccharin What a sweet idea...
sugar alternative. However, its popularity surged during World War I and World War II when sugar was rationed. As saccharin became more widely available, it found favour among those looking to reduce calorie intake without sacrificing sweetness. By the mid-20th century, saccharin was a common ingredient in beverages, tabletop sweeteners, and processed foods.
However, saccharine faced significant controversy. In the 1960s and 1970s, studies on laboratory animals linked high doses of saccharin to bladder cancer, prompting concerns about its safety. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considered banning the substance, but public outcry— especially from diabetics who relied on saccharin—led to a compromise. Products containing saccharin were required to carry a warning label, but the sweetener remained on the market. Subsequent research clarified that the cancer risk observed in animals was not relevant to humans, and in 2000, the warning labels were removed. They realised that the amount needed to produce a risk of cancer was around 800 glasses of a sweetened drink per day!!
Comparing saccharin to sugar reveals several advantages and disadvantages. Saccharin is significantly sweeter than sugar— approximately 300 to 400 times—allowing for much smaller quantities to achieve the desired level of sweetness. This makes it an effective tool for calorie reduction, aiding weight management and providing an option for individuals with diabetes. Unlike sugar, saccharin does not contribute to tooth
decay, which is a notable benefit for dental health.
Additionally, saccharin is stable at high temperatures, making it suitable for baking and cooking. It also has a long shelf life and is inexpensive to produce, contributing to its widespread use in food manufacturing. For people looking to minimise sugar intake due to health concerns or dietary preferences, saccharin can be a valuable alternative.
However, saccharin is not without its drawbacks. Some individuals find that it leaves a bitter or metallic aftertaste, which can detract from its appeal. While deemed safe for human consumption, saccharin’s artificial nature continues to raise scepticism among consumers seeking natural food options. In contrast, sugar, a natural sweetener, is often perceived as more wholesome despite its well-documented health risks.
Sugar has its own set of disadvantages, primarily its high caloric content and contribution to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic disorders when consumed excessively. Saccharin provides a solution to these issues, but its lack of nutritional value means it offers no vitamins or minerals, unlike natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup.
In conclusion, saccharin’s journey from accidental discovery to widespread use illustrates its enduring appeal as a sugar alternative. Its advantages—calorie reduction, stability, and cost-effectiveness—make it a valuable tool in modern diets. However, its drawbacks, including aftertaste as well as gastrointestinal irritation such as bloating and diarrhoea (and possibly altering the intestinal microbiota composition) and consumer scepticism, highlight the ongoing debate over artificial sweeteners versus natural options. As dietary preferences continue to evolve, saccharin remains an important part of the conversation about sweeteners
and their role in health and nutrition.
Other Artificial Sweeteners include:
• Aspartame
• Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K)
• Sucralose
• Neotame
• Advantame
• Saccharin
Sugar Alcohols are another alternative to table sugar. Some occur naturally in fruits and vegetables; others are produced industrially. Sugar alcohols include:
• Sorbitol
• Xylitol
• Lactitol
• Mannitol
• Erythritol (may be linked to heart attack risks)
• Maltitol
Sugar alcohols have slightly fewer calories than sugar. They don’t cause sudden increases in blood glucose, making them a good option for people with diabetes or pre-diabetes. But, they too also can cause gastrointestinal irritation, exasperate IBS symptoms and have a laxative effect if eaten in excess.
Plant or fruit-based non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) include Stevia, Luo Han Huo (Swingle fruit or monk fruit extract) and Thaumatin (also known as talin and is 2000 -3000 times sweeter than sugar!). Natural NSS also include honey, maple syrup, agave syrup and molasses.
To keep things simple, the World Health Organisation recommends that sugar in whatever form you take it should be no more than 10% of your daily calorie intake, so that’s 200 calories for a woman consuming 2000 calories a day!
Debbie
Find out more about PCAT – including how to become a member and support the work of the Trust - on our website www.pitlochryaction.org.uk or by following ‘Pitlochry Community Action Trust - PCAT’ on Facebook.
Pitlochry Station Bookshop
The purpose of Pitlochry Station Bookshop is to make money from the sale of secondhand books and to pass that money on to a group of nominated charities.
All our books are donated by our customers and supporters and we only accept books in good condition. We sell to our customers and visitors at attractive prices, sometimes as low as £1 per volume.
Our expenses are low, especially since ScotRail does not charge us for the rental of our premises and all of our staff are volunteers. This means that almost all money that we raise goes straight to our six charities.
Our charities are mainly local, or have local links. They are: Cancer Research UK, Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS), Highland Perthshire Shopmobility, Mercy Corps, Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance and Tayside Mountain Rescue.
You can find our Bookshop at the far end of Platform One at Pitlochry Station. Our winter opening hours are 9.30 to 4.00 Monday to Saturday. Our friendly volunteers will help with any enquiries you have.
Faskally parkrun
Did you know that research has shown that participating and/or volunteering at parkrun really does make people healthier and happier?
There are parkrun events every weekend around the UK. Our local parkrun, Faskally Forest parkrun, meets at Loch Dunmore every Saturday at 9.20am and starts at 9.30am. It’s free, open to all ages, from babies being pushed in prams to folk 80 years young. We just ask that children under 11 years keep within arm’s reach of their responsible adult. You can decide to walk, jog or run the beautiful 5km forest route. You can even bring your dog but only one dog per person on a short, handheld lead please. We’d encourage you to register (free) with parkrun at www.parkrun.org. uk/register/ Then bring along your barcode, which will enable you to receive an email with your completion time. You may prefer to volunteer to enjoy the camaraderie, it's a great way to meet people and make friendships. There are a variety of volunteer roles, all are easy, and we will give you any training on the day if required.
Afterwards, we go to the Red Deer Restaurant for a coffee and blether. To find out, more look at our web page www.parkrun.org.uk/faskallyforest or Facebook page www.facebook.com/faskallyforestparkrun
Pitlochry Bowling Club
We welcomed the New Year in style with a fantastic party, enjoyed by our members and friends. It was a great way to start 2025, and we look forward to many more social events throughout the year.
January has been a relatively quiet month, but the Killiecrankie Cup competition is
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well underway, as is the Tay Tummel League, keeping our bowlers busy.
Our Monday Warm Space continues to be as popular as ever, with many visitors coming in to enjoy homemade soup, filled rolls, tea, and coffee. If you haven’t been yet, do pop in any time between 11am and 2pm - everyone is welcome! These warm spaces not only offer a cosy spot to help with heating costs but also provide a great opportunity to meet new people. We are grateful to Perth and Kinross Council for sponsoring these spaces, which run throughout the town.
If you’re looking for a new activity, why not try short mat bowls? We’d love to welcome you to the clubhouse and let you have a go. Just wear flat, clean-soled shoes—or even socks, as some of us do! You can also join us on Wednesdays at 2pm for a friendly game, whether you want to play or simply watch and enjoy a cup of tea with us afterwards.
Friday evenings are always lively at the club, with a mix of activities such as bowls, darts, and dominoes, or simply a chance to relax with friends over a drink. Feel free to drop in and see what’s happening - you’re welcome to join in or just enjoy the atmosphere.
For those who love a bit of excitement, our bingo nights take place fortnightly on Mondays - keep an eye on our Facebook page (Pitlochry Bowling Club) for exact dates.
Our clubhouse is also available for hire, making it a great venue for gatherings and events. If you’re interested, please get in touch or come in for a chat.
For more information on any of the above, please contact John on 07833 664121 or Agnes on 07918 122415. You can also follow us on Facebook (Pitlochry Bowling Club) for regular updates. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Vale of Atholl Pipe Band
We had a great time playing at the New Year Street Party. Once again a huge crowd, having a fantastic time. Some great videos on Facebook with thousands of views. A huge thanks once again to the organising committee who do such a tremendous job.
By the time you read this, we'll have held our Junior Piping and Drumming Competition in Pitlochry High School. This is the 49th year of running the competition which started off as just a piping competition in Scotland's Hotel when Erhard Penker, who had the hotel, was the President of the Pipe Band. It is now a large piping and drumming competition, the only one of its kind in the whole of Perth and Kinross. We'll let you know how it went next month!!!
Both of our bands are practising away for this years competitions. Four of the five Major Championships have been announced, in Edinburgh, Dumbarton, Perth and Glasgow, so we're just waiting to hear if and where the 5th one will be held.
Our tuition is ongoing for chanter and drums every Tuesday night in the Tulloch Institute, Perth. Just drop an e-mail if interested.
Gillie McNab gmcnab00@aol.com 07733152223.
Pitlochry & Blair Atholl Pipe Band
Thank you to everyone who purchased raffle tickets for our Christmas Hampers, we raised almost £1000, which was amazing. Well done to our winners: Jacqueline Bruce, Michael Duthie, Willie Williamson, Chloe, George Bett, Ian Sinclair, Susan Campbell, Helen Sinclair, Norma Oswald, Bumble, Pam Lamarsh & Tracey Cudworth.
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Our AGM will be held in Pitlochry High School on Wednesday 19th February at 7pm. Practices continue on a Wednesday evening in the High School and if you would like more information on the band, please contact Pipe Major Christy Kelly 01796 472692 or Secretary Claire Scott 01796 481456.
Table Tennis Tryst Pitlochry
Looking to do something different. Whether you can play or not come and join us and have a go. Every Thursday 2 - 4pm, your first time is free. Equipment is provided. Further details contact Irene 07546479249
Killiecrankie Village Hall
Killiecrankie Village Hall committee thanks everyone who contributed to the success of the Hogmanay Ceilidh and the recent Burns Supper.
As always, the Hall welcomes enquiries for any event - large or small. See the website www.killiecrankievillagehall.co.uk for details.
GrowBiz
Brighten Your February with GrowBiz Support
February is the shortest month of the year, but it can feel like the longest! If you're struggling to find the motivation and drive for your rural business, social enterprise or self-employed practice this month, here are some ways we can help:
Learning Sessions: Our online learning sessions can help you develop important skills, sparking fresh ideas and inspiration. This month we’ll cover things you need to consider if you're just starting up, which will give you a clear direction for your next steps, and how to create beautiful designs for your business using Canva, which is sure to ignite your creativity.
1-1 Support: Feel supported during 1-1 chats with our friendly Enterprise Facilitators, who can help you overcome challenges, identify where you need assistance, encourage you to prioritise your well-being, and provide answers to your questions. You can get in touch at connect@ growbiz.co.uk, or attend one of our Thursday afternoon drop-in surgeries.
Mentoring: Our mentoring programme can support you to overcome internal barriers, such as lack of confidence, as well as providing a listening ear and a sounding board for your ideas. Or perhaps you’re ready to share what you know with others as a volunteer mentor? Giving back can help us feel positive, useful and empowered.
Find out more about our free services at www.growbiz.co.uk
The Meeting Place
We meet every Friday morning from 10-12 in the Duchess Anne church hall in Dunkeld. Come and join us for a cup of tea or coffee, delicious home baking and good company. Further details from mascott47@aol.com
Pitlochry Garden Share
Things are quiet in the gardens. Many crops have been harvested, and some of the plots “put to bed” for the winter. We do however still have winter cropskale, brussels, parsnips, leeks and neeps…..
There will be no market stall this month. They will restart in the spring.
You may be aware that the PKC recently held a consultation to look at growing possibilities locally, including provision of allotments. Following on from that, it seems there is no chance in the near future of allotments being provided. Unfortunately it is not possible for individuals to have personal allotments at the Community garden due to lack of space. However, if anyone is interested in growing their own food, you would be welcome to join us. Volunteers can join others at regular sessions, or work at times to suit themselves if they prefer to work alone. All volunteers can take home a share of the produce.
Setting up a polytunnel and some raised beds are next on the list to organise as we move into the New Year. As always, new volunteers, and ideas, are very welcome. Contact us on our Facebook page, or via pitlochrygardenshare@gmail.com for more information.
Dùn Coillich Rural Skills Traineeships
Applications open for Dùn Coillich Rural Skills Traineeships
Are you aged 16-25 and live in Highland Perthshire? Thinking about a land-based career but not sure where to start?
Why not have a look at the free Rural Skills Training Course offered by the Highland Perthshire Communities Land Trust which is open for applications now? The next course starts in March 2025 and runs for 30 weeks every Wednesday and some Thursdays.
Based at Dùn Coillich Community Land outside Aberfeldy, the course offers trainees chance to get hands-on training and industry-recognised vocational qualifications, all tailored to opening up opportunities in land-based careers.
You’ll learn everything from all-terrain vehicle (ATV) driving to chainsaw handling, dry stone walling to ropes training – and a huge amount in between. And it’s all completely free!
Previous trainees have found work in sectors such as forestry and farming, gamekeeping and conservation – and they’ve had a lot of fun along the way.
“We aim to create a supportive, friendly environment where trainees are given chance to explore their individual strengths and interests,” said Heather Hamilton, Project Officer.
“As well as the practical rural skills training we also offer one-to-one support to help them achieve their personal goals, as well as additional employability skills such as team work, leadership and time keeping.
“We’ve seen so many trainees increase in confidence and life skills during their time with us, whatever their background - it’s really rewarding to see them go on to the next stage in their lives having gained so much in a short space of time!”
Interested? Know someone who might be? Head to www.duncoillich.org/skills-training to fill in an application form, call Heather on 07849 268411 or drop her an email at projectofficer@hpclt.org
Tenandry Kirk, Killiecrankie
Interim Moderator: Rev. Neil Glover.
Session Clerks: Marion Faulds - 01796 472415, Edward Elworthy - 07770842502
Every Sunday service at 10.30am.
1st Sunday of the month Coffee/Tea following the service. All Welcome.
Rannoch Church of Scotland
On 1st January 2025, Braes of Rannoch Church and Foss and Rannoch Church united to become the Rannoch Church of Scotland based in The Old Church in the village of Kinloch Rannoch.
St Columba’s Saturday Vigil 6.00pm Our Lady of Mercy 9.30am St Bride’s 11.30am
Weekday Mass Times
Our Lady of Mercy Tuesday 9.30am, St Bride’s Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 9.30am
Holy Days of Obligation
St Columba’s 9.30am, Our Lady of Mercy 12.30pm, St Bride’s 7.00pm
For further information please refer to our Facebook page.
We are very happy to welcome visitors to our Parish to worship with us and each Tuesday and Wednesday we light candles and pray for their needs and intentions.
The Scottish Episcopal Church
Offers all a warm and inclusive welcome to all
Part of the Diocese of St Andrews, Dunkeld and Dunblane
Rector: The Rev Canon Liz Baker 01796 472005: Email: bethmaybaker@yahoo.co.uk
Holy Trinity is open regularly from Easter to Christmas
Serenity Garden is open Daily
Sunday services 9.30am Holy Communion/Communion by Extension/ Café Communion.
5th Sundays Joint Service with Kilmaveonaig & All Saints (see Website for details).
Book Group. Contact - Ms. Lesley Whitwood 01887 840416 for details.
New Patchwork Group Patchwork and Quilting by machine for beginners but all levels welcome. Every Friday from 2-4 pm. at Holy Trinity (in the hall). For more information phone Isabel on 07856 339230
Garden Group 11.00am to 1.00pm on Tuesdays
Kilmaveonaig (St Adamnan’s Church), opposite former Tilt Hotel, Blair Atholl.
Contact - Mrs. Lavinia Gordon 01796 481230
Kilmaveonaig is open daily
Sundays at 11.15am Holy Communion/Matins/ Communion by Extension.
5th Sundays Joint Service with Holy Trinity & All Saints (see Website for location).
St Andrew's, Church, Strathtay, opposite the local shop.
Contact - Ms. Lesley Whitwood 01887 840416.
Sundays at 11.15am Holy Communion/Matins/Service of the Word/Communion by Extension.
5th Sundays with Church of Scotland (see website.)
5th Sundays Joint Service with Holy Trinity & Kilmaveonaig (see Website for location.)
Zoom Services
Sundays - 6.00pm Evening Services (see Website.)
Thursdays - 10.30am Morning Prayer.
Pitlochry Baptist Church
Atholl Road, PH16 5BX www.pbcweb.net
Pastor: Rev David Barrie (pastor@pbcweb.net)
Sundays - Our Worship Gathering takes place every Sunday from 10:30am at our building on Atholl Road - next to the Tourist Information Centre and across the road from Heartland FM. If you’re exploring faith or looking for a place to call home, come as you are and join us. For the children, we have a full programme for babies through to teenagers. We look forward to welcoming you.
Highlighted event:.
The Welcome All Soup Lunch is every Friday in the Atholl Centre (behind Pitlochry Baptist church) at 12 noon; there’s no charge, though donations are welcome. This is part of the warm space operating from 11am-2pm each Friday from now until the end of April. Come join us and meet up with old friends or make new ones.
Saturday 22nd February (6-9pm) - Community Ceilidh with food and refreshments provided. Although a free event, any donations will in their entirety be gifted to one of our mission partners, Steadfast Global, to encourage persecuted Christians around the globe.
Sunday 23rd February (6-7pm) - Selah Worship Gathering. A welcome opportunity to have more time together in a relaxed setting to seek, listen, and respond to the Lord as we go deeper with him together.
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For quick & easy access to information on our website and social media pages, scan this QR code (the black and white box thing). Do this by:
(1) Open the Camera app on your phone. (2) Hold your phone so that the QR code appears in view. (3) Tap the notification to open the link in your browser. Alternatively, if that gives you a headache, go to our website or check us out on Facebook and Instagram for current up-to-date information.
Jehovah’s Witnesses
You are welcome to join us at the Grandtully Village Hall. By the last week of the month we will be back in our refurbished Kingdom Hall, 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, get in touch.
Sunday 2nd February, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘How Can You Make a Good Name With God?’. A discussion: ‘Brothers—Are You Reaching Out to Serve as an Elder? (1 Timothy 3:1)’.
Thursday 6th February, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: Psalms 144–146, ‘Jehovah Wants You to Be Happy’, “Let the Will of Jehovah Take Place”, Part One—Acts 21:1–3.
Sunday 9th February, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘Bearing Up Under Persecution’. A discussion: ‘A Miraculous Provision of Bread (John 6:35)’.
Thursday 13th February, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: Psalms 147–150, ‘We Have Many Reasons to Praise Jah’, ‘Listen to Jesus—Preach the Good News’, ‘Caesarea— Roman Provincial Capital of Judea’, “Let the Will of Jehovah Take Place”, Part Two—Acts 21:4–9.
Sunday 16th February, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘Basis For Confidence in the Bible’s Divine Authorship’. A discussion: ‘Everlasting Life for You—But How? (John 6:40)’.
Thursday 20th February, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: Proverbs 1, ‘Youths—To Whom Will You Listen?’, “Let the Will of Jehovah Take Place”, Part Three—Acts 21:10–17.
Sunday 23rd February, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘Come, You Who Thirst for the Truth’. A discussion: ‘Parents—Help Your Child to Strengthen His Faith (Romans 12:2)’.
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 will find the Bible’s answers to life’s big questions.
The Baha’i Faith
Unity in Diversity
The moment is rich, so close to Hogmanay and Burns Night, for Scots to explore and fine tune their sense of identity and consider themselves in relation to other cultures. There is pride and a feeling of self-worth, a determination to pass on to our children our values and many of our traditions.
World unity does not imply sameness. Baha’u’llah says we must safeguard the multiplicity of cultures in deliberate fashion, respecting one another and giving room for infinite diversity. Abdu’l Bahá, His son, draws a simple metaphor:
“Consider the flowers of a garden. Though differing in kind, colour, form and shape, yet, inasmuch as they are refreshed by the waters of one spring, …invigorated by the rays of one sun, this diversity increaseth their charm and… their beauty. How unpleasant to the eye if all the flowers and plants, leaves and blossoms, the fruit and branches of the trees, were all of the same shape and colour…. In like manner, when divers shades of thought, temperament and character, are brought together under the power and influence of one central agency, the beauty and glory of human perfection
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will be revealed.”
Baha’u’llah’s “ purpose is neither to stifle the flame of a sane and intelligent patriotism in men’s hearts, nor to abolish the system of national autonomy so essential if the evils of excessive centralisation are to be avoided…. It calls for a wider loyalty… and disclaims all attempts at uniformity…. Its watchword is unity in diversity.”
The fuller quotes can be Googled on Bahaiquotes.com. Local Baha’is enjoy debate and discussion - and Burn’s Night - and can be reached any time through hilarieburnett@clara.co.uk or rachelhelenab@hotmail.com
Pitlochry linked with Blair Atholl & Struan Churches of Scotland
Minister: Rev Mark Foster (MFoster@churchofscotland.org.uk)
Sunday Services: Sunday worship is at 10.00am in Pitlochry Church and at 11.30am in Blair Atholl Church.
At Pitlochry, 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. Tea/ coffee and biscuits are served in The Tryst Lounge following the service.
Day Care: This continues in The Tryst Lounge on Tuesdays from 10.00am – 2.00pm and on Thursdays from 10.00am – 3.00pm. The community bus is available. If you, or anyone you know, would benefit from these activities, please contact the Day Care Team at The Tryst for details. If you wish to volunteer to help at these sessions, please contact Lynne Cunningham LCunningham@pkc.gov.uk
Monday Group: David Frame will be talking bout his travels in Mexico on 10 February at 2.30pm. All welcome.
Scottish Dance Group: Meets on Tuesdays in The Tryst Hall at 7.30pm. All welcome.
Wednesday Coffee & Chat and Warm Spaces: Tea, coffee and biscuits from 10.30am – 11.45am and soup from 12.00noon – 2.00pm in The Tryst Lounge. Everyone is very welcome to catch up with friends, neighbours and to meet new people.
Church Choir: Choir practices will be announced shortly.
Pitlochry & District Choral Society: Rehearsals for the Spring Concert continue on Wednesdays at 7.45pm in The Tryst Hall. If you would like to join us, please come on Wednesday.
Table Tennis: Meet weekly on Thursdays 2.00pm until 4.00pm in The Tryst Hall.
At Blair Atholl, we invite you to our Coffee Corner, in the church hall on Thursdays from 10:30am –12noon.
Administrator/Secretary: We are hoping to employ an administrator/secretary in The Tryst office in the Spring. For further details, please contact the office (details below).
Church Office: The Tryst, all enquiries (including hire of the facilities) and deliveries contact by email thetryst@btconnect.com or telephone 01796 474010. The office is open from 9.30 –11.30am Tuesday to Thursday. Emails and telephone messages are checked regularly.
Winter vegetable & lentil soup
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large leek, sliced and washed
2 parsnips, peeled and diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
1 medium swede, peeled and diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme
200g dried green or Puy lentils, rinsed (can also use red lentils or split peas)
1 tin (400g) chopped tomatoes
1.25ltrs vegetable stock
100g kale, washed and roughly chopped (or savoy cabbage)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Method
This is a really hearty winter soup, making the most of February's seasonal vegetables. Nourishing, budgetfriendly and delicious. With 1.25ltrs of vegetable stock it makes a hearty soup, or use 750ml for a stew that's great with mashed potatoes.
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced leek and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the parsnips, carrots, and swede. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
3. Add the garlic, smoked paprika and thyme. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the lentils, chopped tomatoes and vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils and vegetables are tender (carrots take longest)
5. Stir in the kale and cook for another 5 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread :o)
DOMESTIC ABUSE IS A CRIME
If you are experiencing physical, emotional, sexual or financial abuse or are being intimidated or threatened by a current or previous partner, you are being subjected to domestic abuse. You may be feeling frightened, isolated and ashamed. You are not to blame for what is happening to you, it is NOT your fault. Above all, you are not alone and you don’t need to suffer in silence. Help is available to you.
If the incident requires immediate attention please contact your local police station. In an emergency always call 999 (if the incident is ongoing or life is in danger)
If you have been the victim or witness to domestic abuse, or have concerns regarding a victim of domestic abuse there are several ways you can report this to the police:
At your local police station. If the incident is urgent, this is the best way to report it. If someone is in immediate danger always phone 999.
Use an online domestic abuse form. If you are unable to go to your local office (or prefer to remain anonymous) you can submit the form directly to the police.
If you suspect some else is suffering domestic abuse, you can report it anonymously and in confidence to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
For more information or to seek help, call the Safer Scotland Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0800 027 1234 or visit www.saferscotland.co.uk www.scotland.police.uk
This Month’s Tricky 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!
The Pitlochry Crossword
ACROSS
1 Secure alien’s necklace (7)
5 Archer aching on the way back (4)
9 Saint translates even Latin (9)
10 Usual knock back (3)
11 Woolly term of endearment (4)
13 Seducer arranged judo with Ann (3,4)
14 Network owe BBC remodel (6)
15 Potter around after small canoodle (6)
18 Bag let cash loose (7)
20 Flower got out of bed (4)
22 Chameleons protect sign (3)
23 Capered, played for money, I hear (9)
25 Realise I’m abandoned by missus unfortunately (4)
26 Unveils rocky mountain (7)
By Lesley
DOWN
1 Zero affection (4)
2 Initially, centre overthrew left pass (3)
3 Honour some men - no blethering! (7)
4 Leading Dundonian gatecrashes glossy party (6)
6 Our star, up shimmering on cloud nine (9)
7 Crumple disc - run check obviously (7)
8 Bird appears in the afternoon (4)
12 Driven? Incorrect but I aim so (9)
14 Keeps pieces on board (7)
16 Weirdly, I’m an orc inventor (7)
17 Castle mail redirected within borders of Glenrothes (6)
19 Shrugs off, avoiding Romeo’s cuddles (4)
21 Find pain-free dentist - paradise! (4)
24 Clearly, helluva misspelling darling (3)
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
Visiting Hours:
Pitlochry Community Hospital Ferry Road, Pitlochry. Tel: 01796 472052
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
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
HOROSCOPES
BY CHRISTINE CHALKLIN
For February 2025
The Chinese New Year began on the 29th of January and we are now in the year of the Wood Snake; this is a rare and significant combination that occurs once every 60 years. This unique pairing of the snake, known for its wisdom and transformative energy, with the wood element, symbolises stability, growth, and creativity. These two powerful energies create a year that encourages both inner reflection and outward progress. Wood is associated with growth, creativity, flexibility, and compassion and snake energy is characterised by its resourcefulness, adaptability, and innovative thinking. The month also starts off with an alignment of Saturn, the moon, Venus and Neptune in the sign of Pisces, this is a highly significant combination, suggesting the opportunity for deeper intuition, sensitivity and compassion. The humanitarian sign of Aquarius is now in the spotlight, this sign is innovative and individualistic and strives for independence above all else. Connecting with your authentic self is the major theme of the month. Dynamic Mars, retrograde since early December, picks up the pace at the end of the month, suggesting that projects, Ideas and business matters should begin to move along smoothly. The love planet Venus enters fiery Aries on the 4th, indicating that Valentine’s Day has the potential for some adventurous and passionate romantic encounters! The full moon arrives in the regal and creative sign of Leo on the 12th, and the new moon in Pisces falls on the 28th.
ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20
Pioneering Mars, retrograde in the sensitive sign of Cancer, remains strong in your domestic area all through February, suggesting that some excellent opportunities for innovative new home projects and ventures will begin to emerge very soon. Love planet Venus arrives in your sign on the 4th, your social life should be on a roll now; there is much to be gained from courageously marching forward into new friendships and relationships.
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 some that you may have previously dismissed. Pluto in Aquarius offers the chance for total transformation - will you take it? Venus, your ruling planet arrives in fiery Aries on the 4th, 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
Pluto, Mercury and the Sun together in Aquarius during February, suggest that the pull to broaden your horizons and take up new lines of study becomes stronger than ever. Action planet Mars remains in Cancer all month, this placement highlights your finances and earning potential, assisting your ability to work with your intuition when making important decisions. Things get easier after the 24th as Mars starts to move forward.
CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22
Higher education and distant travel are on your mind this month. With so many planets in Pisces your long held dreams and aspirations take centre stage. The independent minded Aquarian Sun emphasises your need to break free and explore entirely new dimensions in your life. 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.
LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 23
The radiant Aquarian Sun, Mercury and transformational Pluto are strong in your opposite sign during February. This powerful combination is emphasising the fact that you might need to address any difficulties in your relationships. The full moon in your sign on the 12th throws some light on an issue that’s been troubling you for a while, good communication will help tremendously as a creative solution comes into view.
VIRGO AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 22
Mighty planet Jupiter, very powerful at the highest point of your chart, offers the potential for some big changes to your goals and to your career. After the 4th be on the lookout for some important new information related to better your financial plans. The current planetary trends also suggest that this is a good time for restructuring a nutritional review, particularly around the new moon in your opposite sign on the 28th
LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 23
Some new and exciting creative opportunities are suggested during February as the Sun, Mercury and Pluto all occupy this important area of your chart. Innovative new ideas can flourish and as Venus, your ruler, arrives in courageous Aries on the 4th you should find yourself at the top of your game. The auspicious Leo full moon on the 12th illuminates your many talents and offers the chance of a brilliant new networking opportunity.
SCORPIO OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22
Saturn, Venus and Neptune in Pisces are gathered in the sector of your chart concerned with your creativity, self-expression and joy. This is the perfect month to explore your talents, maybe even a hobby that you haven’t visited for a while. The Aquarian Sun and Mercury are both active in your domestic sector, indicating that radical change could now be on the horizon, particularly around the Pisces new moon on the 28th.
SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21
February’s powerful Leo full moon on the 12th accentuates your craving for long distance travel and all forms of further study. It’s time to pull out all the stops and get busy with major initiatives; your strong intuition now may prove to be spot on in the months ahead. Mighty Jupiter, your ruling planet, leaves the retrograde phase after the 4th offering you the chance to view your decisions in a very different light.
CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20
Transformational Pluto, the Aquarian Sun and communication planet Mercury are strong in your financial area, indicating that it’s a good time for initiating any sort of innovative change and for reviewing your earning potential. The powerful Venus Neptune conjunction in mystical Pisces is suggesting there may be some lose ends to tie up before you embark on an entirely new life journey; use your intuition and you can’t go wrong.
AQUARIUS JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 18
Expansive planet Jupiter is strong and courageous in the area of your chart concerned with self-expression, joy and creativity, particularly as the energy gets stronger after the 4th. This could turn out to be an exciting month as your new ideas seem to just fall into place. The Pisces new moon on the 28th highlights finances and asks you to use your analytical abilities and problem-solving skills to make important changes.
PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20
The month starts with the coming together of Saturn, the moon, Venus and Neptune all in your sign - what could be better for a brand new start? This is the start of a new cycle, it’s time to plant seeds of intention and dream about the possibility and potential of 2025. Venus in your sign ensures that you are attractive to others and also enhances your intuitive ability. Tuning in and trusting your inner guidance will make the way ahead look so much clearer.
Christine is a professional astrologer offering private consultations in astrology, life coaching and Bach flower essences.
NAVIGATE YOUR WAY THROUGH these challenging times, discover your unique birth map and take a refreshing new look at what’s coming up for you in the year ahead. Be more positive and plan with in-depth knowledge and cosmic awareness as you tune into your highest potential and be alerted to when positive and productive planetary cycles are working in your favour. Consultations are available on Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp or telephone.
Please contact me for more information.
Christine Chalklin, Inspirational Astrologer and Life Coach
