Pitlochry Life January 2024

PITLOCHRY

LIFE

January 2024 Issue 404

The Roundhouse Inn

The Roundhouse Inn b r i d g e o f t i l t ~ blair atholl Wishing all a very Happy, Safe & Prosperous New Year and We Look Forward to Welcoming You in 2024 Stay updated - www.rhi.scot steven@rhi.scot @RoundhouseBoT

The Best of Pitlochry and Highland Perthshire Pitlochry - Aberfeldy - Dunkeld - Birnam - Kenmore Kinloch Rannoch - Blair Atholl

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CONTENTS

45,67 Sudoku

6 The Pitlochry Tipple

This month Ewan looks at the history of haggis and whisky on Burn's night.

8 Your Community

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

14 Volunteering

We take a look at all the benefits of being a volunteer within your community.

24 Willie's Wonky Computer

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Willie looks at how to create a 'fake' Facebook page and why you might need one.

Fitness

26 Put The Brakes on Fast Food

All the benefits of watching what you eat, to live longer and happier!

Advertising

Debbie - 07545299491

Photography & Design Lynsey - 07305577953

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Editor

Willie - 07906375953

www.facebook.com/pitlochrylife Pitlochry Life Manse Road, Moulin Pitlochry PH16 5EP

Volunteering

50

Recipe

info@pitlochrylife.co.uk www.pitlochrylife.co.uk

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Deadline for February is 12

28 Fitness With Alan Clinch

Alan looks at getting back in shape after the festive period.

WELCOME

34 The Pitlochry Garden

Sheila takes a surprising look at how busy you can be in January's garden.

45 Sudoku

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

50 Recipe

This month we have no less than a great New Year steak pie!

Welcome to the January edition of Pitlochry Life. It’s been a wonderful 2023 and we are very much looking forward to a fantastic new year with all our readers.

In this issue we have many events to keep you busy on these dark cold winter nights. There is the firm favourite Burns Night and Ewan in the Pitlochry Tipple explains the history of whisky with haggis on Burns Night. In our recipe we look at the traditional staple of a fantastic New Year steak pie.

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Ditch The Fast Food

We have many live music evenings at The Old Mill Inn and The Atholl Palace Hotel, we have some great shows on at the Pitlochry Festival Theatre, and would you believe it but this year sees the 20th Winter Words Festival!

All our great local clubs and societies are also busy this month with talks, outings and competitions. It’s going to be tough to fit it all in!

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The Pitlochry Garden

Alan looks at how to work off the Christmas excess in the fitness column, Sheila tells us how busy January is in the garden and Willie sets up an anonymous Facebook account in the Computer page.

With so many great hospitality venues here in town, why not indulge yourself with breakfast, lunch or dinner, whilst soaking up the relaxing atmosphere. Don't let the weather put you off!

Happy New Year with best wishes for 2024 and we look forward to seeing you all again soon.

noon on the 12th January

Why Haggis and Whisky on the 25th?

The very first ‘Burns Supper’ was held not in January but on 21st July 1801, when 9 of Robert Burn’s friends got together to mark the anniversary of the poet’s death.

But a millerr us’d him worst of all, For he crush’d him between to stones.”

The perfect match Haggis and Whisky, but which whisky? To decide which whisky, let’s look at the flavour profile of haggis.

It took place in Burns Cottage in Alloway and included a feast of Haggis, recitals from Burn’s work With its basic ingredients, haggis has a nuttiness and finished with a speech which is now known as from the oats, gamey flavour due to the offal and the Immortal Memory. a healthy pepperiness with spices. Your choice of whisky needs to be able to stand up to these The friends decided to make it an annual event but moved it to his birthday, so the tradition of the flavours and not be overpowered. I would suggest a whisky matured or finished in either a sherry or Burn’s Supper was born and is now celebrated on virgin oak cask to give it the intensity and vitality. his birthday the 25th January.

But why eat Haggis? In his lifetime, haggis would have been a very nourishing and cheap meal for poorer families to eat. Indeed, Burns was so taken by this ‘puddin’ that he wrote a poem about it which is one of his most famous ‘Address to a Haggis’. In this poem he pronounces his adoration for this delicacy.

“Fair fa' your honest, sonsie face, Great chieftain o' the puddin-race!”

Calling it Chieftain tells us how highly he regarded it. So, haggis is now firmly on the menu.

My selection, in no order, would be: Annandale Distillery Man O’Swords Peated (Sherry Cask) Kilchoman Sanaig Peated (sherry cask) Taibhse 5yo Lightly Peated Highland (Virgin Oak Cask) LAGG Corriecravie Edition Peated (Sherry Cask) Edradour 10yo (Sherry Cask) Dalmore 12yo (Sherry Cask) Have a wonderful Burns Supper and remember to…

“Gie her a Haggis!”

But what about whisky? In the late summer of 1788 Burns started work as an Exciseman and in September 1789 he was promoted to Excise Officer for Dumfries.

I suspect that his love affair with Scotland’s national drink (not Irn Bru) started long before he started working for HMRC. He certainly wasn’t shy of praising it in his work.

The poem John Barleycorn was an ode to whisky.

In it he describes the malting process, which is still used to this day.

“They laid him out upon the floor, To work him farther woe; And still, as signs of life appear’d, They toss’d him to and fro.

They wasted, o’er a scorching flame, The marrow of his bones; 6 Pitlochry Life

Ewan McIlwraith Robertsons of Pitlochry & The Bothy Tasting Room 44-46 Atholl Rd, Pitlochry PH16 5BX www.robertsonsofpitlochry.co.uk Photo shows the last domesticated herd of Haggis in Scotland, 1890s.

20th Anniversary

WINTER WORDS

FESTIVAL 2024 8 - 11 February

pitlochryfestivaltheatre.com

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Dementia Cafe - 3rd January North Church Hall, High Street, Perth This cafe does what it says on the tin. It welcomes anyone who has a memory problem and those who have a diagnosis of dementia. If you want a quiet word with one of our professionals e.g. a psychiatric nurse, a social worker, or a link worker, our cafe is the place to come. Some of our volunteers are ex-carers of someone with dementia which can be of comfort for regulars and newcomers alike.

There is always a warm welcome and a cup of coffee or tea with special biscuits which cater for gluten- free folk. The atmosphere is always upbeat and positive.

Our next cafe will be held on Wednesday, January 3rd. If you cannot come that month, save Wednesday February 7th, in your diary and we’ll look forward to seeing you then. The Cafe is always open, even if it rains, sleets or snows!

Hearing Aid Drop-in Clinic - 9th January 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 9th January 2024 between 10.00am - 12.00 noon at the Pitlochry Community Hospital.

Litter Action Group - 9th January The town seems quiet in the winter months but there are still a few visitors about.

It would be nice for residents and visitors if the town is really clean with no litter disfiguring the streets and green spaces. If you agree that this is important do join our team of litterpickers. All equipment is provided including gloves, black bags and grabbers. We do try to separate recyclable waste from the other litter.

Litterpicks take place on the second Tuesday of the month and we meet at 10.0am in the Recreation ground carpark. The next litterpick is on Tuesday 9th January.

Dates for litterpicks in 2024 are: February 13th, March 12th, April 9th, May 14th, June 11th, July 9th, August 13th, September 10th, October 8th, November 12th, December 10th.

We would like to thank those residents of Pitlochry who are not members of the litterpicking group and who also pick up litter when they see it. We know you do this and we are very grateful.

For further information contact Roger West (rogerwest7@btinternet.com) 01796 474255 or Catherine Holmes (c.p.holmes47@btinternet.com) 01796 473400.

Tryst Walking Group - 10th January Wednesday 10 January: Tickled Trout (£4). New Walk with lunch at end of walk at Tickled Trout Café, Almondbank. We leave from Almondbank and walk towards Perth along the River Almond as far as the River Tay. We then turn back and head back along the river for lunch at the Tickled Trout. Distance 6 mls there & back OS Map 52.

Please contact Maureen Holmes on 01796 473153 for further information. Please note: walk organiser/contact cannot be held responsible for any accident. Everyone walking does so at their own risk and should take due care.

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Climate Cafe - 11th January Happy New Year and Best Wishes for 2024 from Pitlochry & District Climate café “Be the change you wish to see in the world”, Mahatma Gandhi. In a Climate Cafe everyone is welcome to come along and join the conversation on climate change and the issues we face and the actions we can take over a cup of tea or coffee. Dates for Climate Cafés in 2024. They take place on the second Thursday of the month, 7pm unless otherwise stated. Therefore, Thursday 11th January, Thursday 8th Feb, Thursday 15th March, Thursday 11th April, Thursday, 9th May and Thursday 13th June. Venue is the Pitlochry Library, 26 Atholl Road, PH16 5BX. For more information please contact: Carol Aitken pitlochrydistrictcc@ gmail.com Website: www.pitlochrycc.co.uk For 2024 - We will also be organising more events, workshops and conversations on different topics. Look out for more information on Sprout, A Community Eco Hub too.

Sustainable Fashion/Clothes Event Saturday 23rd March 2024. The Climate Cafes in Pitlochry, Aberfeldy, Dunkeld & Birnam and Blairgowrie & Rattray are involved with the organising of this event along with Grandtully School and a number of local businesses. The venue will be Breadalbane Academy. There will be a number of presentations from people who work(ed) in the fashion industry, a fashion show with the school(s) a swap shop and alterations plus a number of businesses who are reusing, upcycling clothes and fabrics. More information to follow.

Energy/Eco Fair Spring 2024 The Climate Cafés of Aberfeldy and Pitlochry along with Pitlochry Community Action Trust, Aberfeldy Development Trust, The Heat Project, Warm Connections and Sprout are organising a two place, two-day Energy/Eco Event in spring, 2024. More information to follow.

Moulin Scottish Country Dance Class - 11th, 18th & 25th January Moulin Hall Come along and join us in Moulin Hall for some Scottish Country Dancing. Suitable for those with little or no experience of Scottish Country Dancing but also for those who are a touch 'rusty' and wish to return to this great hobby. Proven to be beneficial for both mind and body. Dances are all walked through.

Classes will take place at 7.30pm on Thursday 11th 18th & 25th January.

All welcome. Admission payable nightly £4.00.

For further details contact June on 01796 473488 Pitlochry.

Killiecrankie, Fincastle & Tummel CC - 15th January Our first meeting of 2024 will be held in Killiecrankie Village Hall on Monday, 15 January at 7pm. We will be delighted to welcome a representative from Breedon to give a short update on Shierglas Quarry.

Minutes of our last meeting in November and of the AGM are on our website www.kftcommunitycouncil.co.uk. If you would like to be kept up to date on community matters, please join our mailing list. Just contact info@kftcommunitycouncil.co.uk and we will add your details.

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Scottish Wildlife Trust - 15th January Pitlochry and Highland Perthshire Branch The next meeting will be on Monday 15th January at 19.30, at the Tryst, Church of Scotland, 13 Bonnethill Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5BS. Lucy Stanfield-Jenner, head of Natural Capital in Scotland will give a talk on this subject – briefly. Natural capital is an attempt to put a monetary value of things supplied by nature which have previously been taken for granted.

Everyone is very welcome, refreshments will be provided. Suggested donations £2 for members, £3 for non members. For further information, contact Mark Aquilina at markandrosie@btinternet.com

Mid Atholl and Strathtay WRI - 17th January Mid Atholl WRI will hold there January meeting in Grantully Hall on Wednesday 17th January at 1.30pm. Peter Stewart and Drew Kennedy will entertain with Scottish Music and songs.

Competitions - 2 girdle scones, knitted teddy Bear (to be donated to McMillan Cancer)

Pitlochry & District u3a - 17th January We are looking forward to our annual Winter Blues Lunch which will be taking place in the Atholl Centre on Wednesday 17th January.

The u3a brings together people in their “third age” – that is people who have finished working full time or raising their family – to develop interests and to continue learning in informal and supportive environments. The focus is on sharing and learning from each other.

In addition to our whole group talks we also offer 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://u3asites.org.uk/pitlochry/welcome or contact Sandra Cairncross (Secretary) on smcairnx@hotmail.com with any queries.

The Breadalbane Heritage Society - 19th January The Breadalbane Heritage Society is looking forward to the first of their four monthly illustrated talks for 2024, and a variety of interesting excursions during the summer. The talk this month will take place on Friday 19th January on the Black Watch, by Major Ronnie Proctor of The Black Watch Association. This will link to the visit by BHS members in May to the Black Watch Museum in Perth.

During January and February talks are held on Zoom, otherwise at 7.30 pm at the Breadalbane Community Campus. Doors open at 7.00 pm for those who would like to come early and look at the displays. Talks in 2024 are held, as always, on Fridays. The talk in February will be on the archaeology of Kilmartin, a fascinating area with many ancient sites, which members plan to visit in August on a three-night excursion. The talk in March will be on the Scottish Crannog Centre, the opening of which is eagerly awaited this year, and the talk in April is by Donald Riddell on Glen Lyon and its folklore and history. This talk has been rescheduled from October 2023, when the Breadalbane Community Campus was unavoidably closed due to the storm.

The BHS’s website 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 Continued on page 16

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VOLUNTEERING The benefits might surprise you!

WHY VOLUNTEER? Your first reaction might be, “when do I have time to do that?”, or, “why would I work for free when I really need more money/job?”, when you hear the word volunteering. But I think you’d be surprised, if that is your reaction, that there is more to it than your initial thoughts. With huge benefits, the right volunteering role can help you to find friends, connect with the community, improve your health, learn new skills, advance your career or even land you that dream job!

THE BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING: Every volunteer will get something different from

their experience, but taking on a volunteering role can provide you with many opportunities and benefits such as:

1. Combatting loneliness - meeting 5. Help protect/heal your mental new / like minded people / people health - combats depression, from all walks of life. counteracts effect of stress, anger and anxiety.

2. Finding a new sense of purpose, particularly if you’ve retired / lost 6. Physical health - keeps you a spouse. active and moving, gets you out and about!

3. Feeling a sense of value and being part of a team.

7. It can be fun and fulfilling exploring your interests and passions, it also provides you with 4. Boosting your self esteem / renewed creativity, motivation and confidence building / personal vision that can carry over into your development - overcoming personal challenges; working with personal and professional life. people you don’t know, getting out of your comfort zone, coping with 8. Learning new skills and gaining new situations, exercise critical valuable work experience thinking & learn problem solving. improving job prospects especially

I HAVE LIMITED MOBILITY—CAN I STILL VOLUNTEER? YES!! Whether due to a disability, a lack of transportation, or time constraints, many people choose to volunteer their time via phone or computer.

In today’s digital age, many organisations need help with writing, graphic design, email, and other web-based tasks. Some organisations may require you to attend an initial training session or periodical meetings while others can be conducted completely remotely. In any volunteer situation, make sure that you are getting enough social contact, and that the organisation is available to support you should you have a question.

if school / college / higher education isn’t for you.

9. Advance your career, leading to that job promotion!

10. Travel the world - yep, you can travel the world helping support displaced refugees, help providing aid, offer medical support to impoverished communities… the list goes on.

11. Making changes - changing the way things work for the better in your local community.

DIFFERENT VOLUNTEERING ROLES: There are lots of roles to choose from, the more you look the more you find, here are just some suggestions to consider:

Charity shop

Helping the Elderly.

Churches

Advocacy - Homelessness, disadvantaged/marginalised people

Citizens Advice offer lots of varying roles.

NHS / First Aid

Crisis Response Guide Dogs Conservation Local Events Driving - Community Buses / Charity runs / food supply / community groups.

Art Gallery, Museum, Library

Mountain Rescue / RNLI

Work with animals - animal shelters, rescue, wildlife centres.

National Trust Community organisations; gardening, litter picking, local councils

TIPS FOR CHOOSING A VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: There are many volunteer opportunities

that fit a variety of interests. Here are some tips for finding a volunteer opportunity: START WITH THE BASICS: Some of the most

common volunteer opportunities are helping at an animal shelter, planting flowers, trees or shrubs at your local garden, public beach or park cleanups, talking or reading to the elderly and political campaigning.

CHOOSE A VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY YOU’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT: You’ll get to explore your

interests and have fun doing so.

WORK FOR VOLUNTEER ORGANISATIONS YOU BELIEVE IN: Supporting a cause you’re passionate

about can be a meaningful and energising disruption from your everyday routine.

CONSIDER VOLUNTEERING GOALS: Is there anything special you’d like to achieve as a volunteer?

Such as, trying something new, meet new people with different outlooks and experiences, doing something for the community, seeing new places or experience a different way of living, try a new type of work you might want to pursue a job in, gain new skills, or simply expand your interests and hobbies.

VOLUNTEER WITH FRIENDS: Ask your friends where

they like to volunteer or what causes they care about.

You can spend time together while giving back to your community and encourage each other.

GETTING THE MOST OUT OF VOLUNTEERING: You’re donating your valuable time, so it’s important that you enjoy and benefit from your volunteering. To make sure that your volunteer position is a good fit: ASK QUESTIONS: You want to make sure that the

experience is right for your skills, your goals, and the time you want to spend. Sample questions for your volunteer coordinator might address your time commitment, if there’s any training involved, who you will be working with, and what to do if you have questions during your experience.

MAKE SURE YOU KNOW WHAT’S EXPECTED: You

should be comfortable with the organisation and understand the time commitment. Consider starting small so that you don’t over commit yourself at first.

Give yourself some flexibility to change your focus if needed.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO MAKE A CHANGE: Don’t force

yourself into a bad fit or feel compelled to stick with a volunteer role you dislike. Talk to the organisation

about changing your focus or look for a different organisation that’s a better fit.

IF VOLUNTEERING OVERSEAS, CHOOSE CAREFULLY: Some volunteer programs abroad can

cause more harm than good if they take muchneeded paying jobs away from local workers. Look for volunteer opportunities with reputable organisations.

ENJOY YOURSELF: The best volunteer experiences

benefit both the volunteer and the organisation.

If you’re not enjoying yourself, ask yourself why. Is it the tasks you’re performing? The people you’re working with? Or are you uncomfortable simply because the situation is new and unfamiliar?

Pinpointing what’s bothering you can help you decide how to proceed.

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.

Rannoch History Society - 19th January On Friday 19th January, Rannoch History Society welcome as their guest speaker Nial Mackinlay, member of the sixth generation of his family in the Scotch Whisky industry in which he himself worked for 35 years.

In his talk, ‘Mackinlay’s Scotch Whisky and Shackleton’s British Antarctic Expedition of 1907’ he will recount the remarkable story of how Charles Mackinlay & Co. supplied Mackinlay’s whisky to the expedition and how a bottle of that whisky was found in Shackleton’s hut by the US Navy during Operation Deepfreeze.

Some unique artefacts will be on display during the evening.

And if you’d like to enjoy a dram, please come with a designated driver!

The date is Friday 19th January 2024, at 7.30pm. The venue is the Village Hall, Kinloch Rannoch.

Admission will be £5 for non-members, payable at the door.

Heartland Film Society at The Birks - 21st January Our January choice, Sweet Bean, is a charming film from award-winning Japanese director, Naomi Kawasi, and a must for foodies! Sentaro runs a small bakery, making and selling dorayakis – a kind of pancake filled with sweet bean paste.

When looking for an assistant, he’s approached by an old lady, Tokue, who’s eager to work with him. He turns her down at first, on account of her age and also because of her deformed hands, but when he tastes her version of bean paste he gladly employs her – and business flourishes.

It’s not all plain sailing, however, and various problems come to the surface in this subtle and moving study of attitudes and relationships, which has been nominated for several awards.

Sweet Bean - Sunday 21st January 6.30pm.

Full details: www.birkscinema.co.uk www.heartlandfilmsociety.org.uk Everyone’s welcome at HFS screenings, but a 12-month membership costs just £10 and brings you 12 months of reduced prices for HFS films at The Birks, plus other benefits.

Tryst Walking Group - 27th January Saturday 27 January: Tryst Car park to Ben y Vrackie path & back to Pitlochry by a bit of a roundabout route! Starting from the Tryst on foot along to Black Spout wood, up past Atholl Palace to Edradour and up towards Kinnaird. Just after bridge over Kinnaird burn, left on path past houses and through a gate into the Christmas tree fields, up to the top. Then turning Northwest after a gate, onto moorland, across to the path down towards Balnakeilly, joining up with the Ben path down to Moulin. West to the golf course and along on the old A9 road/path for a mile, then backwards Pitlochry on the lower path. Approx 5mls. Ht climbed approx 195m. OS Map 52.

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Scotland’s Trusted Fire Proteccon Company Pitlochry Life 17

Please contact Maureen Holmes on 01796 473153 for further information. Please note: walk organiser/contact cannot be held responsible for any accident. Everyone walking does so at their own risk and should take due care.

Killiecrankie Village Hall - 27th January Don’t forget: the renowned Killiecrankie Burns Supper will be held on Saturday, 27 January 2024 in Killiecrankie Village Hall.

Email info@killiecrankievillagehall.co.uk or call 07517 065397 to reserve your place. Tickets (£20 per person) are limited so make sure you get yours!

Pitlochry’s Open Kitchen - 28th January This arose out of the Pitlochry Garden Share. We meet on the last Sunday of the month at the Atholl Centre (this month 28th January) between 3 and 6pm. Using produce from our gardens where possible (depending on the time of year of course!) we get together, share recipes and cook and eat together. We always cook veggie options. This month we will have a Burn’s Night related theme.

Events are free thanks to funding we recently received from PKC. All welcome including children if supervised. Please let us know if you plan to come along so we have some ideas of numbers. For more info contact theopenkitchen22@gmail.com or join our Facebook group.

Pitlochry and Moulin History Society - 29th January The next meeting of the Pitlochry and Moulin History Society will be on Monday 29th January.

The speaker will be Canon Liz Baker who will talk on 'Not English but Anglican' History of the Scottish Episcopal Church. Although part of the Anglican Communion The Scottish Episcopal Church is not and never has been an offshoot of the Church of England, but grew out the Scottish Reformation in 16th Century.

This is a lesser known area of Scottish history and Liz Baker is a well known figure in Pitlochry so an interesting and informative meeting.

As usual the meeting will be in the Tryst lounge at 7.30pm and entrance £3.

Rotary Club of Pitlochry - 2nd February It is now just a month away from our Dinner Dance on the 2nd February! You will not regret it - come and enjoy a fun evening with us. The band, “Cut the Cake”, is outstanding and there will be lots of exciting prizes to be won too.

The Ticket price is £50 each and are on sale at Pitlochry Hardware Centre. For any other enquiries, you can email Linda Watt at lindaawatt@icloud.com or contact her on 07713570289.

We are now also open for nominations for the Citizen of the Year 2023/2024! Please Contact Dougal Spaven on 07593402485 or email our Club Secretary at: secretary@pitlochry.rotary1010.org We wish all of you a happy, healthy and safe 2024!

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Come and join us at Blair Athol Distillery this spring!

Enjoy a tour around our historic and charming distillery or visit our exclusive Mash Tun Bar for a perfectly crafted whisky cocktail.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBILY.

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Pitlochry Repair Cafe - 4th February Pitlochry Repair Cafe will be taking a winter break and returning to Moulin Hall on Sunday 4 February from 12-3pm. We will not be running a session in January.

Our 2024 dates are: 4 Feb, 3 March, 28 April, 2 June, 1 Sept, 29 Sept, 3 Nov, 1 Dec We look forward to welcoming you in the new year to our friendly, buzzy sessions where you can get your broken and damaged items repaired and enjoy a variety of hot drinks and home-made baking and soup. Our repair volunteers have already prevented over 225 items from going into landfill. We are happy to give your item a new life! Just a couple of things we can't do - fix phones or zips! Anything else, bring it along - textiles, bikes, ceramics, household objects, soft toys, electrical items and electronics! Kids are welcome (we have some toys and games) and so are your four-legged friends!

Interested in joining our lovely team as a volunteer? We are always looking for skilled repairers, as well as enthusiastic receptionists. bakers, soup makers and cafe helpers! Email Julia on repaircafe@sprout-community-eco-hub.com or to join our mailing list for the latest news and to find out which repair experts will be present at the following session. Follow us on Facebook / Instagram @PitlochryRepairCafe

Pete Wishart MP - Perth & North Perthshire - SNP With 2024 now upon us, I would like to wish all readers a very happy new year, and send my best wishes for the year ahead.

With that said, January and February can often feel like somewhat joyless months, with the festive season over but the stubborn winter weather showing no sign of abating just yet.

For many readers, this time of year will be proving particularly difficult in the face of the continuing cost of living crisis which is eating away at people’s finances.

My office has been assisting with a huge volume of cases relating to issues with energy bills, particularly from constituents who live rurally, and we remain on standby for anyone who is need of assistance.

I also wanted to highlight some of the financial support that may be available to those who are struggling.

If you were born before 25 September 1957, you could be eligible for the UK Government’s Winter Fuel Payment, which offers between £250 and £600 to help you pay your heating bills. This amount includes a ‘Pensioner Cost of Living Payment’ between £150-£300.

If you’re eligible, you should have already received the payment. However, if you did not get a letter but think you are eligible, you can check if you need to make a claim at: www.gov.uk/winter-fuelpayment/how-to-claim The Scottish Government’s Winter Heating Payment, launched in 2022, will also see £22 million paid out to over 400,000 households across December and January.

The payment of £55.05, introduced last year, replaces the Department for Work and Pensions’ Cold Weather Payment. Unlike the old payment, it is paid automatically, once a year, to those eligible and is not triggered by the weather. In total it is expected to be worth almost three times the amount paid out in equivalent support from the UK Government.

And locally, Perth and Kinross have the Financial Insecurity Fund in place, which provides financial assistance to households with no recourse to public funds. More on this can be found on their website at: www.pkc.gov.uk/financialinsecurityfund or by phoning the Welfare Rights Team on 01738 476900.

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our family to yours, ,From our family to yours From Year! !Happy New Year Happy We’d like to thank our customers old and new for dining with us in 2023 and look forward to welcoming you back again after our winter break.

d e s o l C

Victoria's will re-open on Friday 9th Feb 2024.

DELICIOUS DINING

LOCAL PRODUCE COCKTAILS

from

4th Jan

01796 472 670 | www.victorias-pitlochry.co.uk 45 Atholl Road, Pitlochry | fiona@victorias-pitlochry.co.uk

Follow us online:

 Pitlochry Life 21

It can be daunting trying to figure out which support packages you may be eligible for, and how to go about applying. If you are in any doubt, I would recommend getting in touch with Perth CAB who will be able to guide you. They can be contacted on 01738 450580 or advice@perthcab.org.uk

Murdo Fraser - Mid Scotland & Fife - Conservative Most of us will all have spent Christmas Day with family or friends, and I hope that whatever you did you all had an enjoyable and peaceful day.

MSPs and staff at the Scottish Parliament are now off during the festive recess after what has been a busy time dealing with Parliamentary matters and queries from constituents.

One of the most recent issues I have been involved with is the roadworks on the A9 north of Dunkeld, which have caused some lengthy tailbacks for motorists, including some constituents who had to endure a journey of more than two hours to reach their destination.

Such was the concern expressed about the roadworks, which are taking place in order for SGN Gas to fit a gas pipe on the road between Birnam to Logierait, that I wrote to the gas company to ask them to find a solution to the traffic queues, which had taken place.

In my letter to SGN Gas, I highlighted how Friday afternoons tended to be a peak time for problems on the road north of Dunkeld due to the roadworks and asked them if there was scope for the roadworks to be suspended from a Friday lunchtime through to a Sunday evening.

SGN Gas had said they recognised that there was the “possibility” that traffic flows may increase in the lead up to Christmas so they announced that they would remove the traffic management system every Saturday evening through to Sunday evening to “alleviate possible delays.”

While I welcomed this move to remove the traffic management system every Saturday evening through to Sunday evening, it is not the answer I was looking for. However, it is good news that SGN Gas are making some changes, so hopefully we will see less delays on this stretch of the A9. I was also pleased that SGN Gas took the time to recently meet with the chair of the local Community Council.

Many constituents have contacted me about the lengthy traffic delays caused by the roadworks.

Concerns were raised from motorists and local residents so I really hope these latest proposals to reduce delays on the A9 north of Dunkeld are effective. Rest assured; I will be keeping a close eye on the situation.

May I wish all readers of Pitlochry Life all the best for 2024.Murdo Fraser always welcomes feedback from constituents. He can be contacted at The Control Tower, Perth Airport, Scone, PH2 6PL, by email on murdo.fraser.msp@parliament.scot or by telephone on 01738 553676.

John Swinney MSP - Perthshire North - SNP As we enter 2024, I would like to wish all readers a Happy New Year. I hope that you enjoyed a restful festive period and that you were able to spend it with those closest to you.

As I look back on 2023, I will always remember it as a year of significant change.

After serving as a Scottish Government minister for 16 years, I resigned my position and chose to return to the backbenches. This has, to say the least, been a very significant change in my professional life.

It has been truly wonderful to now have more time to spend in my constituency. Whilst I have Continued on page 30

22 Pitlochry Life

Pitlochry Life 23

Willie’s Wonky Computer Factory How to Make an Anonymous Facebook Profile Facebook is great for keeping in touch with family and friends, finding events, things to do and often just being nosey, or amusing yourself.

However, Facebook also makes a lot of personal information available to anyone who either looks you up, or comes across your page, and that puts many of us off using it. So, if you would like to use Facebook, but keep yourself and your data private, there is an option to consider - an anonymous profile.

If you are concerned about Facebook's privacy settings and violations. Making an anonymous Facebook profile also keeps fraudsters away from your personal information, like your real email address and date of birth.

Also, If there is a data breach on Facebook, an anonymous account could prevent you from becoming a victim of fraud as there’s no personal information available to the fraudster.

It also stops people who know who you are, from finding you and spying on you, and prevents you having to ignore ‘friends requests’ from others trying to connect with you on the platform. You can, however, share personal posts with those close to you. That means your friends will know who you are, but no-one else will.

Another reason for an incognito Facebook account is so you can be an administrator of a Page, like a business, club, group etc. Facebook doesn't allow you to act as an admin on a Page without a personal account to tie it to, so this way you are not sharing anything with all those using that Page.

Making an anonymous Facebook account is very simple and quick. The more bland and barebones the better, as it’s less likely to catch someone's eye if you keep it simple.

1. Create a Burner Email Account To remain truly anonymous, you need a new email address. This ensures your login information for Facebook will not be tied to any of your personal information.

Go to the likes of Gmail, or Outlook and create a new email, using a name and email address that doesn’t contain any of your personal information, or features of your real name. That way it can’t be traced back to you.

2. Sign up for Facebook Visit www.facebook.com and make sure you are logged out. Select the green Create Account button, in the mobile app, it’s the blue Create New Account 24 Pitlochry Life

button. Then use your new email address and do not use your personal phone number, otherwise it will be connected to your account - defeating the purpose of having an anonymous account.

3. Enter the Details for Your New Account The next part is very important. Make sure you do not use your real name, email address, or date of birth. Use only fictional data, that ensures none of your personal information will be tied to your new Facebook account.

Insert your new email address, a strong password, a fictional birthday, and preferred gender. Hit the Sign Up button.

Facebook will now ask for access to your contacts, be sure to click 'No'. If you click 'Yes', you will show up on the 'People You May Know' suggestions for other Facebook users.

You now have a new incognito Facebook profile.

4. Select Your Profile Picture Choose a picture that will not compromise the anonymity of your account, use a Facebook avatar or a generic photograph, like a place, fancy car or breed of dog, for example.

5. Start Adding Your Friends Remember why you have this anonymous Facebook account and only add people that you trust and who won't share your new Facebook identity with others.

I would suggest sending individual private messages to your friends and family. This way they will know that the mysterious profile trying to add them is actually you in disguise.

6. Confirm Your Account Facebook will request that you confirm your account by sending you a you a one-time confirmation code.

Confirm your account with your burner email address and not your real phone number. This will prevent any of your personal information from being tied to your new Facebook profile.

You're all set. Enjoy the privacy and freedom of having an anonymous Facebook profile.

To remain anonymous, avoid adding too many people you know, use a pseudonym for your username, and try not to comment or like too many of your real-life friend's posts.

The key to keeping your profile anonymous is to be careful of what you post and who you interact with.

Just don’t abuse it... or you will end up in Facebook Jail :o)

Willie

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Put The Brakes on Fast Food For a Longer Happier Life

It is the ultra processed foods that cause us most harm, so cutting down is a good start. However, recognising them can be quite difficult so, here are four things to look for and some tips for a better healthier lifestyle: 1. Long list of ingredients: All-natural products The NOVA Food Classification System, developed are made from just a few ingredients whereas by researchers at the University of Sao Paulo, ultra-processed foods typically have at least Brazil, places food into four categories based on five different ingredients listed on their labels. how much they have been processed during their To avoid ultra-processed foods, steer clear of production: these products.

1. Unprocessed or minimally processed 2. Unfamiliar ingredients: Ultra-processed foods foods: This includes produce such as fruit, contain additives you would never add to vegetables, milk, fish, pulses, eggs, nuts and home cooking. If the ingredients list things seeds that have no added ingredients and you’ve never heard of (and can’t pronounce), have been little altered from their natural state. these are likely to be preservatives, 2. Processed ingredients: This includes foods sweeteners, colouring, or other artificial food that are added to other foods rather than additives. eaten by themselves such as sugar, salt, 3.

Red food labels: Ultra-processed foods butter, lard, oils and vinegar. typically contain high amounts of fat, sugar, 3. Processed foods: These are foods that are and salt. Check the nutritional breakdown of made by combining foods from groups 1 and all pre-packaged food you eat and avoid any 2, which are altered in a way that home cooks with red colour coding – these are often ultracould do themselves. They include foods such processed food products, or at very least not as jam, pickles, tinned fruit and vegetables, good for you! homemade breads and cheeses.

4. Extended shelf life: When fresh food has 4. Ultra-processed foods: Ultra-processed foods an extended shelf life, it often indicates typically have five or more ingredients. They preservatives have been added. In particular, tend to include many artificial additives and products containing preservatives such as ingredients that are not typically used in home sodium benzoate, nitrates, sulphites, BHA, and cooking, such as preservatives, emulsifiers, BHT should be avoided. (BHA or butylated sweeteners, and artificial colours and flavours. hydroxyanisole is a synthetic antioxidant that They are made using sequences of processes is used to prevent fats in foods from going that extract substances from foods and alter rancid. BHT or butylated hydroxytoluene also them with chemicals in order to formulate a stabilises fats and is used to retain food smell, final product designed to be cheap, palatable colour and flavour.) and convenient. Ultra-processed foods Homemade is best. Cooking with fresh ingredients generally have a long shelf life. and choosing precisely what foods you include in Examples include ice cream, ham, sausages, your recipes is an easy way to avoid unhealthy meals. crisps, mass-produced bread, breakfast Use plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh cereals, biscuits, carbonated drinks, fruitmeat and fish and whole foods. Unhealthy foods flavoured yogurts, instant soups, sweets, like fries, burgers and pizza would be considered packaged snacks and pastries, ready-to-heat ultra-processed if purchased from a fast-food products, and reconstituted meat products or plant-based alternatives. Surprisingly, they restaurant but minimally processed if made at home with similar ingredients, or indeed from a also include some alcoholic drinks including quality local butcher or baker. whisky, gin, and rum.

It is well established that processed foods are bad for us, causing a list of ailments including obesity, hypertension, heart failure and early death. In this country, on average, 56% of our daily calories come from processed foods. Time to change?

26 Pitlochry Life

Classification of Processed Foods

Snack on whole-foods. How many crisps, biscuits, cakes, cereal bars and sweets do we get through between meals? These are all examples of ultraprocessed foods that can easily be avoided, or at least cut down. Why not try fresh fruit, cucumber sticks, raw vegetables, nuts and seeds, and boiled eggs? They also satisfy the craving for munchies and will help keep your weight down.

processed food category. Avoid energy drinks, sugary soft drinks, frozen coffee drinks and long-life fruit juice.

As you can see, identifying ultra-processed food is a challenge, the bigger challenge however is finding a suitable healthy alternative. Here are some ideas: Swap •

Sweetened breakfast cereals for homemade oatmeal.

•

Sugary soft drinks for carbonated water and fresh fruit juice

• These products contain several ultra-processed ingredients. The meat itself is reconstituted (!) and thus ultra-processed, the buns used for burgers are • packed with preservatives, and their soft drinks are another ultra-processed product.

• I’m not saying you cannot eat meals out, and it’s • great to get out of the kitchen once in a while.

• However, choose healthier restaurants that focus • on nutritional products and natural ingredients.

Industrialised white bread for homemade or sourdough.

Avoid fast foods. One of the worst sources of ultra-processed food is fast food, such as the iconic cheeseburger or chicken nuggets from your kids favourite burger joint.

If you’re set on eating fast food, make it an occasional treat rather than the norm.

Don’t forget the drinks. Unfortunately, many of your favourite drinks also fall into the ultra-

Long-life fruit juice for freshly squeezed fruit juice.

Fried chicken for home-roasted chicken.

Cured meats and ham for fresh pork cutlets.

Beef burgers for homemade or roast beef.

Flavoured crisps for unsalted nuts, pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds

Live healthy, live long 

Willie Pitlochry Life 27

FITNESS with Alan Clinch

What to do After the Christmas (and New Year) Excess As ever, we all started out with great ideas….. this year • Avoid binge drinking – yes, I know we’ve just I’ll try and eat a bit less/do plenty of exercise over the had Christmas……. If you are going to drink, try to break/maybe I’ll refuse just one more gin and tonic limit it, and spread any consumption out over the etc etc! Well – did you? week. Remember the guidance on units for adults is a maximum of 14 per week for both men and If you did, well done. Let’s look at some ways to try women. (14 units is equivalent to 6 pints of 3.6% and redress the balance over the next few months. proof beer, or 7 glasses (175ml) of wine.)

These are all suggestions for small changes rather than big ‘resolutions’. A little while ago I read an article where a cardiologist was interviewed about some of his lifestyle choices. A bit of further research came up with the following pointers as to how we might achieve a lot by doing a little in terms of our general health. Probably a good idea, as heart and related diseases cause 25% of all deaths each year (roughly 160,000). Bear in mind that these are general guidelines, and may not be applicable to athletes, or people on specific diets

• Stand up – I’ve written on a few occasions about issues related to prolonged sitting down. It’s important for the health of your muscular and skeletal systems to use them, so whatever happens try to get up and move around every 30-40 minutes.

• Don’t eat junk food – if you fancy a snack, have some fruit instead of crisps or biscuits. Some fruits are better than others – for example raspberries or blueberries can help in reducing inflammation – good for preventing heart disease. If you eat dried fruit, remember that it usually contains high concentrations of sugar.

• Try to eat at regular times, and avoid eating just before bed – the body likes routine when it comes to eating. The same applies to snacks – mid morning or mid afternoon are good. Also, if you’re going out to eat it can sometimes be a good idea to have a small snack before you leave – it can make you less likely to overeat later.

• Avoid salt – our normal food intake will contain easily our daily requirement for salt, so there’s no need to add more. Excess salt will contribute to high blood pressure.

• Try to avoid electronic stimulation before bed.

Blue light from TV, phone, tablet, or laptop interferes with the body’s release of melatonin (the hormone that makes you feel drowsy). Try relaxing before bed…..and aim for a regular quantity and quality of sleep.

• Stay hydrated – you often need more fluid than you might think. We all need slightly different amounts, but government guidelines suggest at least 6 to 8 cups or glasses of fluid a day. People also tend to drink less than they need in colder weather.

• Try to get as much colour as you can in your meals.

• Try, where possible, to increase your intake of The chemicals that give fruit and vegetables their fibre – it is digested slower than more processed colour are generally beneficial., because they food, so you feel more full for longer. People who frequently contain antioxidants, which can help the eat higher levels of fibre tend to have lower body immune system weight, lower blood pressure, and lower HDL OK – there we go – probably enough to be thinking cholesterol. ‘Brown’ foods (brown bread/rice/pasta about for now. I’ll write more about some of these etc) are usually better than ‘white’ ones. issues over the next year.

• Do some exercise – any exercise is good, but the That said, if you haven’t exercised for a while, or more intense it is the more likely it is to have a have any medical conditions which might cause beneficial effect (but don’t go rushing in to this problems, check with your Doctor to ensure it’s safe if you’re not used to it!). Watch out for posture, follow any of these suggestions. Remember, pain is a and remember that balance and strength become sign that something is wrong…. increasingly important as we get older.

alan@pitlochrylife.co.uk 28 Pitlochry Life

Pitlochry Life 29

always prided myself on being a visible and available local MSP, the demands of my government role meant that there was significant time pressures on my diary and often I was pulled away on government business at short notice.

Now, however, I am able to get out and about as much as I like, and I have taken great joy in attending dozens of events over the past year. It has been truly wonderful to meet so many constituents for the first time and also to catch up with old friends who, due to the pandemic, I had not seen for a number of years.

I have also been working on a number of substantive issues that are facing the Highland Perthshire community. Recently, for example, I have been involved in extensive discussions with SGN regarding their roadworks on the A9 and the unacceptable delays this is causing.

As a result of my interventions, I was able to achieve a temporary pause to their roadworks and a commitment to re-think their wider strategy. At the time of this writing, they have also agreed to pause roadworks between Saturday and Sunday evening every weekend in December.

With works set to continue into the new year, I will continue to liaise with SGN on this issue and I would ask that any constituent with particular concerns contact me directly.

I will also be continuing to host a large number of constituency surgeries during 2024. If you would like to book an appointment to speak with me, please contact my office via john.swinney.msp@ parliament.scot or by calling 01250 876 576.

Pitlochry and District Neighbourhood Watch An increasing number of people are being caught out by scams which involve their being asked to send a bank transfer for purchases made on line. In most of these cases the goods paid for either don’t arrive or never existed in the first place. It seems this is easily the most practised scam dealt with by the banking sector. If you are attracted by something on the likes of Facebook Marketplace and the seller insists on a bank transfer do not proceed unless you are picking up the goods at the same time. It could be very risky.

Another method of scamming to look out for concerns QR codes. These are becoming widespread and are a very quick and useful means of directing potential customers to the seller’s website or a means of making a quick purchase. Be warned! Not all of these QR codes are genuine. The advice from Police Scotland is :• • • • •

Never scan a QR code from an unfamiliar or unexpected email. If the message appears to have been sent by a company or organisation, visit their legitimate website to make a payment or update details rather than scanning a code.

Be extremely wary if a QR code takes you to a site that asks for personal information, login credentials or payment If you receive a QR code from a trusted contact via email, confirm via a separate medium such as text message or voice call that the message is legitimate Scam messages will often have a sense of urgency and will appeal to your emotions to try and convince you to take action quickly Review the preview of the QR code’s URL before opening it to see if it appears legitimate. You can do this by opening your mobile device camera and pointing this at the QR code. This will identify the webpage link and provide the site address the code will take you to. Make sure the website uses HTTPS rather than HTTP, doesn’t have obvious misspellings and has a trusted domain. Don’t click on unfamiliar or shortened links.

(We always check the QR Codes that are printed in this magazine, Willie) 30 Pitlochry Life

Continued on page 32

Pitlochry Life 31

GrowBiz New Year, New Net Zero Goals Enterprise support organisation GrowBiz is planning to support more Perth & Kinross micro businesses and social enterprises on their journey to net zero in 2024. (Net zero refers to when the amount of greenhouse gases we create is no more than what’s taken away.)

During learning events and discussions with clients last year, it was clear to GrowBiz that many people felt unsure where to start when it came to taking measures that would improve the sustainability of their business, with much of the advice currently targeted towards larger enterprises. Others had made great progress in one area of their net zero journey, but were stuck on what to do next.

GrowBiz’s net zero support, made possible with funding from SSE Renewables, will aim to fill this gap. It will focus on providing jargon-free, practical advice to help small businesses create realistic, manageable targets. This will also take into account specific rural challenges, such as lack of public transport. It will facilitate conversations, provide peer support and learning events, and will also include support for better mental health and wellbeing.

To start a conversation with a GrowBiz team member on how to start or continue your journey to net zero, email us at connect@growbiz.co.uk We will also be continuing to provide our usual support of 1-1 business advice, learning sessions, networking events, mentoring and more. To see all of our services go to www.growbiz.co.uk

Atholl Centre Pitlochry Office hours Atholl Centre Office open hours are Monday – Friday 10.00am – 4.00pm.

volunteers & staff.

BIG THANK YOU to all who supported the Community Christmas Day Lunch; McKays Hotel & Restaurant, Mackenzies Bakery, hard working

Pitlochry’s Open Kitchen is @The Atholl Centre – Come along to join us in the New Year January (28 ) Pitlochry’s Open Kitchen meets to share recipes, cook, eat and have a good blether!

Everyone is welcome! - For more information send an email to theopenkitchen22@gmail.com th

Winter colder weather is here. Donate/swap/take a ‘new to you’ Winter coat from the Atholl Centre Coat Rail. This year we have warm jumpers too, and shoes and boots.

Pitlochry Warm Places open to offer a warm welcome again over the Winter months: Mondays – Bowling Club 11am – 3pm Tuesdays – Atholl Centre 11am – 3pm Wednesdays – Church of Scotland 10.30am – 2pm Thursdays – Library 10am – 1pm, 2pm – 7pm (Warm packs available) Fridays – Baptist Church Welcome All Lunch @ Atholl Centre 11am – 3pm Saturdays – Library 9.30am – 12.30pm Warm Places Cookery Sessions: Due to popular demand, we will be meeting again for 4 cookery sessions in the New Year. Kamil Jastrzebski will lead the sessions and bring us a tasty range of Polish recipes. Look out for dates Jan/Feb on Facebook.

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

Continued on page 38

32 Pitlochry Life

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Pitlochry Life 33

The Pitlochry Garden January Some people think that January is the coldest, longest, most boring month of the year. The same people generally don’t think much of February either. But I’d like to try to put a little shine on January if I can.

Winter defines the climate in the cool temperate latitudes. The mainly deciduous forest, stretching around the globe at the mid-latitudes in both hemispheres, is one of the richest, most fertile habitats on the planet.

In winter decayed vegetation breaks down to feed the soil, creating rich ground. There are about 150 to 200 growing days and enough rain to grow crops intensively. When spring comes, plants receive cues to come into growth and the food they produce supports us all.

contrast with the bare branches of deciduous trees and shrubs, especially if it snows.

You can still work when the weather permits.

Carry out late winter pruning of apples and pears by reducing the past year’s growth to about 4 or 5 buds, removing any dead or damaged wood and branches which either cross or crowd the middle of the tree. Make clean cuts just above a bud or back to a main stem.

You can also do some restorative pruning of established deciduous shrubs, removing one-third of the thickest growth to the base. If you do this every winter for about three or four years you will have an entirely new shrub with healthy vigorous wood.

Remember to knock heavy snow off conifers with the back of the broom and avoid getting salt from Nothing would be the same without winter: it’s the paths onto the grass or other plants. cold that encourages flower buds and germination. If you’re feeling restless you can always turn over Without it, food production is reduced or irregular the compost heap, incorporating some brown in both quantity and quality. This particularly material like newspaper or egg cartons. If you affects nuts and fruit like apples, cherries, keep it well made up during the winter it will heat strawberries and pears, and cereals like wheat. quicker in the spring.

There is already evidence that winter chill has declined in Britain and that this has affected our output of certain crops. Maybe this has affected your fruit trees; lack of winter chill is one cause of irregular or poor fruiting.

The garden is often put to bed in late November and disregarded until March but there is pleasure to be had from good structure and plenty of evergreen plants and shrubs. Well-clipped evergreen shrubs and hedges make a good 34 Pitlochry Life

Whether the winter is Narnia or nuisance, remember we are lucky to have it. By the end of January, the sun will be stronger and the days will be longer. The bulbs are growing and the buds are fattening on the trees; remember “If winter comes, can spring be far behind?”

Happy New Year!

Sheila Drummond

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Pitlochry Life 35

Your Local Legal & Property Experts

Traditional Values - Modern Thinking Property Legal Services Wills, Powers of Attorney and Succession Planning Charities & Communities Companies & Partnerships Agriculture, Estates & Renewables Contact our Property Team to book a FREE, NO OBLIGATION valuation Tel: 01796 472606 Email: property@jandhmitchell.com www.jandhmitchellproperty.com

36 Pitlochry Life

Pitlochry Life 37

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.

Changing Places Toilet New and fully equipped Rest room facility for the disabled C.A.T.H. Churches Action For The Homeless The outreach service will be at the Atholl Centre, Pitlochry on the first Tuesday every 2 months, between 10.00am and 12 midday. The next meet will be February 2024. We can provide support with Housing issues and Benefit queries/applications. We also provide support to access a range of available services. Please feel free to drop in for a chat. Helen Kirkwood Atholl Baptist Centre SCIO15113, Atholl Centre, Atholl Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5BX Further information from 01796 473044.

Pitlochry Community Action Trust (PCAT) The 2023 annual report The most important thing that has happened to PCAT this year is that we are now, officially, a registered Charity and officially a Development Trust. We are hoping that these two developments will enable us to work more closely with our local government, community and business partners to improve life in Pitlochry going forward into 2024 and beyond. We also have a website www. pitlochryaction.org.uk where we post our activities.

In September PCAT officially attended its first Pitlochry Highland Games. We had many visitors to our stall, generated a lot of interest in our work with many copies of the Community Action Plan being distributed at the Games.

October saw the start of the Council Property Review. Our website carries full details of this important review and there has been a good response to the issues raised by PKC. We look forward to PKC’s evaluation of these responses and to their proposals for the future of their estate in the town. We will continue to carry the latest information about these events on social media and on our website.

November saw PCAT Trustees alongside other members of the community at the Tay Forest National Park Consultation at Pitlochry High School. PKC were seeking views of local people on the proposal to submit a bid for National Park status to the Scottish Government. Views on this are being collected by PKC until December 2023. The Scottish Government has announced its intention to create at least one new National Park.

November 11th saw the first Energy Fair at Pitlochry Town Hall. Many local enterprises that are involved with energy have been invited along to talk to members of the public about their energy use. These include the Heat Project, RW Bells, Escape Route, architects Studio East and Eolas and many others. There will be activities for children and many learning opportunities for all on this important topic.

PCAT is looking forward to 2024. We plan to have our first AGM on Monday 22nd January in the Town Hall starting at 7pm. Everyone is welcome. Watch the website and Facebook page for more information.

We are all looking forward to Christmas and the New Year and we want to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year for 2024.

Continued on page 42

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Warm Welcome These locations are open over the winter months till the end of March. The list below shows where and when they are on. They are mostly supported through the Perth and Kinross Council Warm Welcome Fund. All locations are free and open to all. For more information please do contact any location.

Mondays

- Bowling Club 11am to 3pm. Soup, bacon rolls & refreshments.

Tuesdays

- Atholl Centre 11am to 3pm. Refreshments + Winter coat rack

Wednesdays - Church of Scotland – in the Tryst lounge 10.30am to 2pm. Refreshments.

Thursdays

- Library 10am to 1pm then 2pm to 7pm – refreshments Warm packs available.

Fridays

- Baptist Church Welcome All lunch @ Atholl Centre 11am to 3pm. Soup n roll. Refreshments + Winter coat rack.

Tulach, Blair Atholl Golf Club, Invertilt Road, Blair Atholl, PH18 5TE Getting Crafty with Friends on Fridays, 12pm-4pm. Anyone interested can call the clubhouse on 01796 481552 or 07760193459.

Saturdays

- Library 9.30 am to 12.30pm – refreshments Warm packs available with items which help keep you warm.

The Library van can deliver when visiting community stop off points when requested.

Stay safe – Stay warm – Stay connected this winter

Pitlochry Station Bookshop Recently I was dipping into a book about the history and traditions of Christmas. The book was an excellent purchase some years ago from our own Bookshop for the princely price of £1, and while it reminded me of much that I knew about Christmas trees and yule logs, it provided me with new insights into attitudes which have been constant through the centuries.

For example, the view that Christmas is too commercialised and much inferior to past Christmases is not a modern one and has been held by all our ancestors too. Yet another sentiment that has also echoed through the ages is that Christmas should be a time of peace and helping others.

Because of our natural modesty, we don’t realise that our Bookshop is completely in tune with the everlasting idea of Christmas. In 2023, when our takings have surpassed a grand total of £400,000, all of us, whether volunteers, book donors or customers, can reflect on a job well done in helping others.

Just look at the titles of the charities who receive all our cash. Each penny raised has made a Continued on page 44

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difference to someone’s life through the work of Cancer Research UK, Children’s Hospices Across Scotland, Shopmobility, Mercy Corps, the Air Ambulance and Tayside Mountain Rescue.

So thank you, everyone, for your efforts in 2023. We hope to see you often during 2024 but if you are reading this in early January, not on January 1st and 2nd when we shall be closed for obvious reasons. Happy New Year.

The Pitlochry & Edradour Distillery Community Bonfire The Pitlochry and Edradour Distillery Community Bonfire held a stunning Firework Display in November, enjoyed by a large audience. The bucket collection raised a fantastic £1200.

The committee would like to thank everyone who contributed to our fundraising throughout the year, and all the local businesses who made donations and gave raffle prizes - the community's support is very much appreciated!

Just Singin` Birnam Local group Just Singin’ welcomes you in 2024!

As we move into 2024, we hope to build on the great singing experiences that we enjoyed last year. Our pool of talented tutors is ever expanding, providing a great variety of singing styles and material, with each tutor leading four weekly sessions at a time.

If you are looking for a new interest and enjoy singing, whatever your ability, why not come along and join our super friendly, fun group which extends a warm welcome to everyone?

We take a short break during January, and our next 8 week term begins at 7.30pm on Wednesday 7th February, in the upstairs room at Birnam Arts. Please have a look at our website if you would like some further information or contact details www.justsingin.co.uk

Dunkeld & Birnam Traditional Youth Music Group After a very successful Christmas concert and winter term, Dunkeld & Birnam Traditional Youth Music Group is back in full swing for the spring term. We’ll be welcoming new members and learning new tunes for our ever growing repertoire and developing young musicians.

This month we’ll be visiting some more local schools and look forward to spreading the word about what we do. We enjoy a wide variety of instruments in the trad bands so invite all young players to come along try it out.

As usual we’re very thankful to the kind donations we’ve received as well as to all of our funders.

As a not for profit organisation these are really important to help keep it free.

If you have any instruments hanging around your home and would like for them to be put to good use, we will happily take them. We have particular need for ¾ and full size fiddles and small pianoaccordions with 24, 32 or 48 bass buttons.

DB Trad Group runs weekly during term–time at Birnam Arts and open to anyone aged P5 – S6. To benefit from our free tuition or to join one of our bands, get in touch.

Email dbtradgroup@gmail.com or call 07958 324 766.

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This Month’s Tricky Sudoku How to play............

7 5 1

3 3

9

7 8

4

8

2

5

2

1

3

8

4

9

1

4

8 2

6

5 3

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!

8 Pitlochry Life 45

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Local Christmas Card Delivery Service The local Christmas Card Delivery Service, which took place at Victoria’s Restaurant from 4th to 8th December, raised £1,308. This was split 3 ways between the Food Bank, the Senior Citizens’ Bus and the Path Group.

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 and also to the staff of Victoria’s Restaurant, who as usual, were brilliant hosts.

Your support is very much appreciated.

Pitlochry Flower Club There is no January meeting, so our next meeting is not until Wednesday 21st February at the Tryst Hall, Pitlochry at 2pm when Steve Ludlum will be demonstrating. Along with our usual sales table we are hoping to have a bring and buy stall. Visitors will be most welcome for a small charge of £8. We are a small club and new members would be very welcome at any time. For more information on any of the Club activities, please contact Lynda Gardiner (01796 472157) Very many thanks again and all best wishes for Christmas and the New Year.

Pitlochry Town & Country Club It was so enjoyable to share our Christmas Tea together at Hetties in December & by the time you read this article we are already looking forward to a new year with arrangements in place for our January meeting when Zena Crowther will bring her cross-stitch pictures, which are works of art.

Hope that the weather is kind. We are fortunate to have the support of the Community Bus to collect members for the meetings which start at 2pm until 4pm in Aldour Hall, where we enjoy tea & home bakes after the demonstration.

Everyone is welcome, see you there.

Happy healthy New Year. Kathleen Scott. Contact 472765.

Blair Atholl Station Heritage Project Sharing our Past, Building our Future.

We are delighted to report that our Phase 1 project, Learning from Stories, starts in January! This project will celebrate the station and the railway and their place in the community. We will be meeting people who remember the station when it was a lively, busy place, and hear their stories.

We will also take photographs of things that were important in the station’s past. The stories and photos will be shared on our website and we will go into the school to run a workshop about the station and the railway with the children. A storybook for children will also be published, based on the life-story of a Blair Atholl resident, and we will write up a social history of railway staff based on the 1881 census. Our project will end in August 2024 with a big exhibition in the Village Hall, so that everyone – local people and visitors to the village – can all share in what we have learned.

This is all possible because we have secured some funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and also from the Struan Trust. We are very grateful for their help. Our group is part of the Blair Atholl & Struan Initiative.

If you would like to get involved, please email us on friendsofbastation@gmail.com Continued on page 52

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New Year Steak Pie Ingredients 675g (1 1/2 lb) diced stewing or braising steak 2 heaped teaspoons of plain flour olive oil 1 onion, peeled and diced 1 carrot, peeled and diced 4 sticks of celery, diced 1 small handful of fresh herbs or a teaspoon of dried (rosemary, thyme, bay leaf) 1 can of Guinness Beef stock cube or a Knorr ‘Stock Pot’ 2 (400g) tins of chopped tomatoes 1 (500g) packet of puff pastry 1 egg, beaten

Method 1. Trim the beef and season well, sprinkle with flour and toss around until well coated.

2. Heat 2 or 3 glugs of olive oil in a large casserole type pot and brown the meat, then add the onion and fry for a minute before adding the celery, carrots, herbs and the Guinness.

3. Add the tomatoes and the stock cube and then bring to boil. Stir well and simmer for about 2 hours until the beef is tender. Stir now and again and don’t let it stick. You should end up with a thick and intensely flavoured gravy. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.

4. Preheat the oven to 190degrees.

5. Put the meat filling into a large baking dish (or as many small ones as you fancy) 6. Roll out the pastry to a little larger than your pie dish(es), brush the edges of the dish with beaten egg and place the pastry on top.

7. Squash the extra pastry onto the outside of the dish then lightly score the top in a criss cross fashion.

8. Brush the top with more of the beaten egg.

9. Place on a baking tray (to catch any drips) and place in the middle of the preheated oven for about 45 minutes until golden and bubbling.

10. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before digging in :o)

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BREADALBANE AND DISTRICT RIDING FOR THE DISABLED The Annual General meeting of the Breadalbane and District Riding for Disabled group was held in Aberfeldy on Monday 13th November.

Despite atrocious weather there was a good turnout, reflecting the enthusiasm and commitment of our members. We had reports from our chair and treasurer, the former summarising the year with many thanks to all involved in making sure that the group runs smoothly. We are especially grateful to those who lend us their ponies, and also for the use of Knockdarroch as a venue. Our finances have been boosted by some generous donations, as well as stalls at the Aberfeldy and Pitlochry shows, again we are very grateful to everyone who has contributed. There were several changes to the trustees, with a few standing down and new trustees appointed. The office bearers were elected with Helen Webb taking over as chair, Helen McDade as Vice chair, Vicky Kilpatrick as secretary and treasurer to be confirmed. There were more ‘thankyous’ to the outgoing trustees and office bearers, who have worked hard to ensure the group is thriving, many of whom have been involved with the group for a number of years.

On 23rd November the West & Central Scotland RDA Regional "Get Together” was held in Stirling and was very well attended (50+) by members of the various groups in our region. Four of our members went and participated in various workshops and lectures including health and safety for both volunteers and participants, with a focus on Safe Lifting & Manual Handling, and general group management issues. A guest speaker from RNIB also spoke to us on how best to support sight impaired participants. A report from the recent National AGM brought us all up to date on current issues. An excellent day presented by various specialists, most of whom are volunteers too.

A group of S3 pupils from Pitlochry High School chose Breadalbane and District RDA as the charity they put forward in a YPI (Youth and Philanthropy Initiative) competition to win £3000 for the charity. Although they didn't win, they did very well and we really appreciate their efforts on the group's behalf.

Lastly, we are very much looking forward to our 2024 season and, as always, would welcome any new volunteers. Please contact Vicky on 07786262329 for further information, or email breadalbanerda@gmail.com

Pitlochry in Bloom Be Part of the Blooming Magic of Pitlochry!

Hopefully you’ve noticed our town’s radiant floral displays - from the vibrant hanging baskets complementing our containers and wrought iron figurines, adding life to our Victorian postie, distillery still bed, fisherman in his boat “The Bloom“, the nanny and pram, loving seat and flower seller.

Pitlochry in Bloom is proud to make a difference in our community.

Though we recently had to retire our Victorian lady golfer her enchanting replacement is already capturing the admiration of many photographers and she helped celebrate our town’s Rotary Club 50th Anniversary.

As you will understand all this good work for the town is very dependent on our super volunteers and hopefully your support. Facing rising costs like many, your generosity will ensure Pitlochry’s heart will continue to bloom and make Pitlochry so attractive to our residents and many visitors alike.

Our bank details are: Continued on page 54

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Pitlochry in Bloom Bank of Scotland: a/c: 00734440 sort-code: 80-09-41 Please give generously – every little helps!

Thanking you in anticipation, Kate Howie - Chair of PIB katehowie@yahoo.co.uk

Dunkeld & District Strathspey and Reel Society Highland Perthshire and, especially, Dunkeld have a wonderful and continuing history of great traditional Scots music, from the time of Niel Gow in the eighteenth century to the present day.

DDSRS, our local fiddle orchestra, meets most Monday evenings during school term time, in the Royal School of Dunkeld. We play an interesting variety of traditional Scottish music, old and new, under the expert direction of the well-known local fiddle player and composer Pete Clark.

We love to welcome players of fiddle, cello, double bass, accordion or woodwind, who have the option either to join as full members, or to come along when you can and just pay £5 on the night.

We are a friendly bunch who enjoy each other’s company and the shared pleasure of making music together.

Further information at www.dunkeldstrathspeyandreel.org

Inner Wheel Club of Pitlochry Inner Wheel is an international women's organisation. Our objects are to promote true friendship; to encourage the ideals of personal service; to foster international understanding and we do this this through regular meetings, social events and raise funds to support local and international charities.

Thank you to everyone who came along to our stall at the Christmas Fair (and to see our tree). The money raised will be shared between Social Flock, Multiple Sclerosis and plus other local causes.

We will also be marking Inner Wheel Day on January 10th through collecting for the local Foodbank.

The club meets in the evening on the fourth Thursday of every month. David Duncan will be joining us at our next meeting for Burns Night.

The club meets in the evening on the fourth Thursday of every month. If you are interested in attending or would like further information, then please email innerwheelpitlochry@gmail.com

Pitlochry Garden Share Food grown by the community for the community! Reduce your food bills and meet likeminded people. Eat local seasonal fruit and vegetables. We share the tools, skills, harvest and a good blether!

Many thanks for all the donations of tools we have received. We really appreciate your support.

There is still plenty to do at the Moulin Community Garden. Please get in touch if you want to get involved or learn more about us. Any help is welcome, even if it is just once a month. Contact us at pitlochrygardenshare@gmail.com or find us on Facebook.

New project for this year at the Community Garden in Moulin: we are looking for parents of children of any age to join us in creating an exciting kids’ area in the garden, so they can have fun learning about where their food comes from. Get in touch and take part in shaping this project!

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Repairs · Virus Removal New Systems · Broadband Networking · Data Recovery Verisure Monitored Alarm Systems Clover Merchant Services Covering Pitlochry, Aberfeldy, Kinloch Rannoch, Dunkeld and Surrounding Areas

Free support for small businesses, social enterprises and the selfemployed in rural Perth & Kinross

1-1 advice ~ online learning ~ business mentoring ~ networking events ~ sustainability support ~ and more

Pitlochry Life 55

Pitlochry Library Opening hours: Thursday 10am-1pm & 2pm-7pm, Saturday 9.30am-12.30pm 01796 474635 / pitlochrylibrary@culturepk.org.uk Bookbug sessions are held at Pitlochry Library every Thursday from 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 Pitlochry Library to book a spot.

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/

Blair Atholl Bowling Club Happy New Year to all our readers. We hope everyone has had a wonderful Festive period as we look forward to a new year. The clubhouse will continue to be a warm place for anyone wishing to join us on the 1st Friday of the month at 8pm for darts, dominoes and a blether.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Mid Atholl Indoor Bowling Club Mid Atholl indoor bowling club meet on Mondays in Mid Atholl Hall Ballinluig 2pm -4pm, bowls are available, flat soled shoes must be worn.

Come along and give bowling a try. For more information contact Frances on 01796 482240.

Pitlochry Bowling Club A Happy New Year and we wish you all Good Health and Happiness in 2024.

The bowling club will be open again every Monday morning at 11am till 3pm serving homemade soup and filled rolls. We look forward to seeing everyone again.

Thank you to Perth and Kinross council for sponsoring these “warm spaces” throughout the community. We served soup and bacon rolls to over fifty visitors in the first three weeks. So do come along and enjoy a friendly sociable few hours in a warm and welcoming environment.

Bingo nights are very popular. They are held once a fortnight the January dates are Monday 15th and Monday 29th, 7pm for 7.30 start. Everyone is very welcome.

Our quiz night last month was sold out before the actual night so watch out for next one.

We are busy with short mat competitions as well as darts, dominoes and cards.

If you are interested in trying short mat bowls do come along and give it a go. All you need is flat shoes as we supply bowls and a wee bit of coaching to get you started. It’s a lovely way to spend an hour or so on a winters day. A Friday night is also a good time to pop in for a drink and see what is going on.

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We look forward to welcoming new members and the New Year is a good time to start.

For further information on any club activities watch our FB page (Pitlochry Bowling Club), or phone John on 07833664121 or Agnes on 07918122415.

The Pitlochry and Moulin Heritage Centre A huge thanks from the Pitlochry and Moulin Heritage Centre, located in Moulin Square, to all who came and visited us this Summer. We are now closed for the winter but will reopen in the Spring.

Remember though, we now have heating so if you are looking for an interesting space to hold an event over the winter, then please contact us, we might be able to offer something for a small fee to cover our costs.

For more details, please contact us by email at pandmheritage@gmail.com or through our Facebook page “Pitlochry and Moulin Heritage Centre” or our website www.pitlochryandmoulinheritagecentre.co.uk And the work behind the scenes never stops, so if you have some time on your hands and would like to get more involved, we love to welcome new volunteers. Or if you have some interesting donations for the Centre then please get in touch. The Centre is run by volunteers and stays open only through local support, visitors and donations.

The Trustees would like to offer our sincere thanks and gratitude to all those volunteers that have been involved this year and those who have donated interesting items for display. And a big thanks also to David Williamson from Moulin Yarns for his fantastic displays and contribution to the Centre. Finally, thank you to our members for their continued support. Without you all, we would not be able to stay open and have this fascinating insight to local history.

Edradour Pitlochry & Blair Atholl Pipe Band The band led the parade with the Atholl Highlanders in Blair Atholl on Remembrance Day and it was great to see so many people back at the village hall for food and refreshments afterwards. Many thanks to MacDonald Brothers Butchers and the Atholl Arms Hotel for their generous donations of food.

Our AGM will be held on Wednesday 28th February at 7.00pm in Pitlochry High School.

If you require any further information on the band, please contact Pipe Major Christy Kelly 01796 472692 or Secretary Claire Scott 01796 481456 or follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

Vale of Atholl Pipe Band What a great time we had playing at all the festivities at the beginning of December. We started off in Aberfeldy on the 2nd December leading the reindeer parade up to the square in minus 4 degrees!!!

We played another spot at 1pm in perhaps a degree higher!

Then it was down to Perth where we played in the High Street at 3.30pm and the temperature had risen to minus 2 degrees!!! Then it was the Christmas Lights parade leaving from Thimblerow Car Park, to the Tay Street end of South Street with about 30 groups taking part. It was a tremendous atmosphere.

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The following day it was back down to Perth to play at the St Andrew's Day parade where it was a very mild zero degrees!!!!! The massed bands were just getting ready to play their last tune at the Concert Hall after another lengthy street parade when the snow came on. I'm sure it looked very pretty!!!

We've also just had a change of Pipe Major in Grade 3. Mark Stewart, who had been Pipe Major for the last four years and brought the band through Covid with online practices and was also responsible for the high placings and trophies at the Major Championships, has decided to stand down. We'd like to thank Mark very much for all his dedication and hard work. We're not losing him though, as he's going to help with the Grade 4 and Novice bands. We're delighted to announce that Kyle Howie has accepted the Grade 3 Pipe Major role. Kyle is a piper in the Grade 3 band and used to play in the Vale Grade 1 band and the Red Hot Chilli Pipers. He also teaches pipes at Strathallan School.

The band is looking forward to playing at the New Year Street Party in Pitlochry, and the entries are coming in for our solo Junior Competition in Pitlochry High School on the 20th January. Looks like a busy day!!!

Gillie McNab gmcnab00@aol.com 07733152223.

Blair Atholl & Struan Community Council Happy New Year from Blair Atholl & Struan Community Council As we enter into another year, we are preparing for another busy year for the CC in 2024.

One of the questions people often ask us is – what is a community council for? The answer is that we are nothing other than a group of local people who want to make Blair Atholl & Struan a better place to live. By coming together on behalf of the community, we can (we hope) influence and put pressure on others, and with a lot of hard work and more than little luck, this may then lead to a positive outcome at least some of the time.

We hope to make a positive start to 2024 with further developments building from the Community Action Plan (CAP) of 2023. We will call a meeting early in the year to include other local community groups that were involved the CAP; the areas we hope to work on together include the Memorial Park, paths and preservation, wildlife and the lade. If you would like a copy of the CAP we can email it to you, please feel free to ask.

What happens next is largely up to all of us as individuals and as a community – what do you want the CC to try to do on your behalf in the year ahead? We meet bi-monthly on a Tuesday at 7.30pm in the Armoury Room – 2nd Tuesday of the month – and our facebook page is a good place to see what is going on. Email us on blairathollstruancc@outlook.com

Blythswood Christmas Shoebox Appeal A big thankyou.

Yes, a massive thanks to all in the church who donated full shoe boxes, items to fill them and cash to help with the expenses of taking them to Kosovo by lorry. We cooperated with Pitlochry High School and the Atholl Centre to make this happen. There were 118 shoe boxes which left in a lorry from the church. The school brought down 45 boxes, others came from many individuals in the town, from the good folk of the Welcome All soup lunch, from the Church of Scotland and the Holy Trinity Church.

From around Scotland about 7,315 shoe boxes will be given out to children in Kosovo to help them have gifts this Christmas.

Should you be willing to help next year please to speak with Iain or Maureen.

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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

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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

Blair Atholl & Struan Linked With Braes Of Rannoch And Foss & Rannoch Interim Moderator: The Rev Grace Steele.

Phone – 01887 820025. Email - GSteele@churchofscotland.org.uk Session Clerk Blair Atholl & Struan

Harold Ingram 01796 481275

Session Clerk Braes of Rannoch

~~

Session Clerks Foss & Rannoch

Robert and Elizabeth Anderson 01882632272

Blair Atholl & Struan Church - Weekly Sunday service in Blair Atholl Church at 11.30am from January 2024 (Please note change of time) Coffee Corner in Blair Atholl Church Hall every Thursday at 10.30am - 12.00. All welcome Rannoch Sunday services are each Sunday in January at 9.45am at Braes of Rannoch and 11.30am at the Old Church, Kinloch Rannoch

The Scottish Episcopal Church in Highland Perthshire Offers All a Warm And Inclusive Welcome Part of the Diocese of St Andrews, Dunkeld and Dunblane Rector: The Rev Canon Liz Baker 01796 472005: Email: bethmaybaker@yahoo.co.uk Lay Reader: Lesley Whitwood 01887 840416: Email: lesleywhitwood@btinternet.com Website: www.hplc.scot Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/highlandperthshirechurches Episcopal Churches in Highland Perthshire December 2023. All are welcome at services in our churches and on Zoom. Check our website for updates.

Holy Trinity Church, Perth Road, Pitlochry -Contact – Robin Baker - 01796 472005.

Holy Trinity is open daily Serenity Garden is open Daily Sunday services 9.30am Holy Communion/Communion by Extension.

Book Group. Contact - Ms. Lesley Whitwood 01887 840416 for details.

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.

St Andrew's, Church, Strathtay, opposite the local shop.

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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).

House Group 10.00am Last Wednesday of the month.

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

First Sunday of the Month 9.30am Holy Communion.

7th January 9.30am All Age Communion for Epiphany.

Zoom Services Sundays -

6.00pm Evening Services (see Website).

Thursdays - 10.30am Morning Prayer.

Pitlochry Baptist Church Atholl Road, PH16 5BX Pastor: Rev David Barrie (pastor@pbcweb.net) www.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.

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.

This month's highlighted event: Community Ceilidh - Saturday 27th from 6:30pm at PBC. It promises to be a great night, and we'd love to have you along to it. Suitable for all ages... and all levels of dancing ability! Ceilidh Dancing Food - Drinks And it’s free!!!

All and any donations received will go to our partner Steadfast Global and their work with persecuted Christians throughout the world.

Pitlochry Church of Scotland Interim Moderator: Rev Fraser Penny 01350 727 249.

Session Clerk: 01796 472791.

Website www.pitlochrychurchofscotland.org.uk Sunday Service: Morning Worship at 10.30am.

We invite you to join us, whether you live locally or are just visiting the area. Worship begins with a warm welcome, followed by a mix of music and words, ancient and modern. Tea/coffee and biscuits are served in The Tryst Lounge following the service.

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CrossReach: The service provided by CrossReach and Perth & Kinross is changing. If you, or anyone you know, would benefit from meeting in The Tryst Lounge on Tuesdays or Thursdays for activities, lunch and some company, please contact The Tryst office for details (see below).

Wednesday Coffee and Chat: 10.30am – 11.45am. Everyone is very welcome to catch up with friends, neighbours and to meet new people over tea, coffee and biscuits in The Tryst Lounge. At present, donations are for the people of Malawi, through the Bananabox Trust.

Wednesday Warm Rooms: 12.00 – 1.45pm. Everyone is welcome to come to share a warm space and enjoy a bowl of soup in The Tryst Lounge. Come for coffee and stay on for soup! Free wi-fi available.

Church Choir: Wednesdays at 6.25pm in The Tryst Hall. New members always welcome.

Pitlochry Choral: Wednesdays at 7.45pm in The Tryst Hall.

Table Tennis: Meet weekly on Thursdays 2.00pm until 4.00pm in The Tryst Hall.

Church Office: The Tryst, for all enquires and deliveries contact by email thetryst@btconnect.com or telephone 01796 474010. The office is open from 9.00 – 11.00am Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Emails and telephone messages are checked regularly.

For details and availability of The Tryst hire also contact by email thetryst@btconnect.com or telephone 01796 474010.

St Bride’s Catholic Church Parish Priest: Fr. Emmanuel Adindu Rie-Achan, Pitlochry PH16 5AL Tel. No: 01796 472174 E-mail address: stbridespitlochry@dunkelddiocese.org.uk Also served by St. Brides; Sunday Masses: St. Columbia’s, St. Mary’s Road, Birnam Vigil Mass 6p.m.

Our Lady of Mercy. Sunday 9.30am.

St. Bride’s. Sunday 11.30 am.

Weekday Masses: Our Lady of Mercy. Tuesdays 9.30am. St. Brides Wednesday, Thursday, Friday at 9.30am.

There will be no weekday mass during January as Ft. Emmanuel will be on Holiday .

A Happy and peaceful New Year to all from St. Brides.

Jehovah’s Witnesses When life seems unfair, how do you react? What advice does the Bible give? On the 11th we will be addressing this question. You are welcome to join us for our meetings held at the 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 using the information below.

Thursday 4th January, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: Job 32, 33, ‘Comfort Those Who Are Dealing With Anxiety’, ‘Interest in Others​—Imitate Jesus’, ‘Peter​—From Fisherman To Dynamic Apostle’.

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This Month’s Easy Sudoku 1

2

4

9

6

5

3 8

4

9

6

6

7

1

3 3

6

3 8

8

1 4

4

5 2

4

9 1

8

4

7

3

6

9

4 2

1

5

3 6

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!

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Sunday 7th January, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘Human Creation’s Groaning—When Will It End?’. A discussion: ‘Cherish Your Privilege to Worship in Jehovah’s Spiritual Temple (Revelation 14:7)’.

Thursday 11th January, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: Job 34, 35, ‘When Life Seems Unfair’, ‘False Religion Does Not Reflect God’s Love’, ‘John—The Disciple Whom Jesus Loved’.

Sunday 14th January, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘Why Show Self-Sacrificing Love?’. A discussion: ‘How Jehovah Guarantees His Promise of Paradise (Isaiah 65:16)’.

Thursday 18th January, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: Job 36, 37, ‘Why You Can Trust God’s Promise of Everlasting Life’, ‘Why Were Jehovah’s Witnesses Persecuted During the Time of the Holocaust?’, “Uneducated and Ordinary Men” Part 2—Acts 4:1–22.

Sunday 21st January, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘Are You on the Road to Everlasting Life?’. A discussion: ‘How to Keep Our Love for One Another Strong (1 John 4:7)’.

Thursday 25th January, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: Job 38, 39, ‘Do You Take the Time to Observe Creation?’, ‘Observing Creation Helps Us to Remember the Big Picture’, “Uneducated and Ordinary Men” Part 3—Acts 4:23–31.

Sunday 28th January, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘A Cleansed Earth—Is It Possible?’. A discussion: ‘You Can Remain Confident During Uncertain Times (Haggai 2:4)’.

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 questions.

The Baha’i Faith The Baha’is of N.E. Scotland came together in December for the first round of elections that will culminate in the election of the National Spiritual Assembly of the UK next April. Meeting in Dundee we had come from all points of the compass: Aberdeen, Speyside, Deeside, Aberfeldy, Comrie, Kinross and Fife; 77 souls were qualified to vote. Our chosen delegate, one of 95 UK wide, will cast a vote at the National Convention in April.

Baha’i elections are totally different from the voting we are used to, for parties and for individuals who put themselves forward.

Voting in Baha’i elections is by Secret Ballot and no-one may canvass or put themselves forward. The qualities required, specified by the Guardian of the Faith, are those “of unquestioned loyalty, of selfless devotion, of a well-trained mind, of recognised ability and mature experience. Other factors to consider from a pool of those qualified are age distribution, diversity and gender.” No mention of personalities should be made in the run-up to elections; believers must try to get to know each other over time, exchange views, mix freely, and discuss the requirements of office, without reference to particular individuals. When casting a vote, we aim to “approach the time of election in the mood of prayer, disinterestedness and detachment from worldly motives.”

Not such an easy discipline as it may sound!

For further information go to www.bahai.org or contact local Baha’is in your area via Hilarie on 07967 601423 (hilarieburnett@clara.co.uk) or Rachel on 07707 994812. There are a wide range of meetings which are open to anyone interested.

68 Pitlochry Life

Pitlochry Life 69

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Pitlochry Life 71

The Atholl Medical Centre Ferry Road, Pitlochry.

Tel: 01796 472558

Mon - Fri 8.00am - 6.00pm (Doors open at 8.30am) Except Wednesdays Closed 12.15 - 1.45pm Out with Surgery Hours NHS 24 - 111 Prescriptions - tay.amcprescriptions@nhs.scot

Pitlochry Community Hospital Ferry Road, Pitlochry.

Tel: 01796 472052 Visiting Hours: GP Unit - Contact for further info.

MIIU - Temporarily closed until further notice.

Kinloch Rannoch Medical Practice The Surgery, Kinloch Rannoch.

Tel: 01882 632216

The Reception is open Mon - Fri 8.00am - 6.00pm Surgery Hours 9-10.15am, 2-3pm and 4-5pm.

For all urgent appointments please phone reception Out with Surgery Hours NHS 24 - 111

Pitlochry Post Office

Within Premier Store 63 Atholl Road, Pitlochry.

Tel: 01796 474301 Blair Atholl Post Office Tel: 01796 481233 Ballinluig Post Office Tel: 01796 482220 Strathtay Post Office Tel: 01887 840203 Kinloch Rannoch Post Office Tel: 01882 632347

Pitlochry Library

26 Atholl Road, Pitlochry Tel: 01796 474635 E-mail: pitlochrylibrary@pkc.gov.uk Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri - Closed Thurs 10.00am - 1.00pm & 2.00pm - 7.00pm Sat 9.30am - 12.30pm

Housing & Community Safety and Registration Services 26 Atholl Road, Pitlochry Mon, Tues & Fri 8.45am - 12.30pm & 1.30pm - 5.00pm Appointments arranged out with these days 01738 476000 (select option 2)

Registration of Births, Deaths & Marriages Mon - Fri: By Appointment 01796 474645

More Helpful Numbers to Hand Pitlochry Police Station

101

Perth & Kinross Council

01738 475000

Crimestoppers

0800 555 111

Adult Care Services

0845 301 11 20

Scottish Hydro

0800 300 999

Anti-Social Behaviour

01738 476173

Gas Emergency

0800 111 999

Council Housing Emergency

0845 301 11 10

Perth Royal Infirmary

01738 623311

Environmental Health

01738 625411

NHS 24

111

24hr Domestic Abuse

0800 027 1234

Infinityblu Dental Pitlochry

01796 470001

Infinityblu Dental Dunkeld

01350 729198

Citizens Advice Bureau

01738 450580

Homelessness

0800 917 0708

Roads & Flooding

01738 475000

Mental Health Services

0845 301 11 20

Samaritans

0845 909090

SSPCA 24Hrs

0300 999 999

Childline

0800 1111

Perthshire Women's Aid

01738 639043

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Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

72 Pitlochry Life

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

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Answers to the December Crossword Across

1 STEWART 5 GOLD 9 CHRISTMAS 10 FUN 11 XMAS 13 INSHORE 14 BASEST 15 ECHOED 18 HELPFUL 20 AWRY 22 LIT 23 FLICKERED 25 SHED 26 HARNESS

Down

1 SACK 2 ERR 3 ASSISTS 4 TAMMIE 6 OFFCOLOUR 7 DUNKELD 8 USES 12 MISTLETOE 14 BEHOLDS 16 CRACKER 17 SLEIGH 19 FIFE 21 ADDS 24 RUE

Pitlochry Life 73

HOROSCOPES

BY CHRISTINE CHALKLIN

For January 2024 The New Year starts with a brilliant and optimistic triangular pattern between the Sun, Moon and the lucky planet Jupiter. On a personal level this bodes well for positive change during the year ahead, as long as you stay connected to your heart and to your true life path, success can be yours. The unpredictable and maverick planet Uranus is also involved in this aspect pattern, suggesting that globally there is still much upheaval and change to come. We will surely witness some major developments in the economy, trade and diplomatic relations. Transformational Pluto arrives in Aquarius again on the 21st (beginning another short stay until the final move in November) the cosmos suggests that the powerful Aquarian energy will endeavour to give us all renewed inspiration and courage to achieve remarkable things, and hopefully guide us towards a more humanitarian and social outlook. Dynamic energy planet Mars arrives in steady Capricorn on the 5th serving our capacity for endurance and our desire for emotional stability. Mystical Neptune in Pisces highlights the need for optimism and spiritual awakenings, it’s now more important than ever to stay kind and compassionate to ourselves and to others as we stand on the threshold of the New Year and of a new awakening. The new moon is in ambitious Capricorn on the 11th and the full moon culminates in the creative sign of Leo on the 25th All best wishes for a happy and successful 2024 ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20 Three planets in Sagittarius gather at rather restless sector of your chart, you are probably expecting this year to be totally different to anything experienced before. Broadening your horizons, new learning and faraway travel will all occupy your mind. This is an important year for Aries as you focus on exciting projects. The Capricorn new moon on the 11th highlights a business opportunity that can take you forward.

TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 21 January sees an abundance of cosmic activity at the highpoint of your chart; this indicates another important phase for developing your goals and ambitions. Further education and travel could play a big part in your plans for 2024. Delay your important decisions until Uranus returns to direct motion after the 27th. The Capricorn new moon on the 11th offers an exciting opportunity.

GEMINI MAY 22 - JUNE 21 Mars, Mercury and Venus are gathered in the relationship area of your chart this month, suggesting that some important issues need to be addressed if you are to find a positive way forward. Knowledge gained during 2023 will assist you in making some important decisions. A short term goal also needs attention, for best results use the practical Capricorn new moon energy on the 11th.

CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22 The start of January 2024 is energised by three planets highlighting your health and wellbeing sector. This planetary set up provides quite a challenge, but optimism and positive thinking will make a vital difference to your current plans and help things go your way. The Leo full moon on the 25th highlights finances, you can use your intuition to make some creative decisions.

LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 23 January’s powerful fiery Sagittarian alignment illuminates the love and passion sector of your chart, suggesting that a new or a renewed romance could now be on the cards. Meanwhile, the Capricorn Sun is powerful in the work and wellbeing sector of your chart, making planning and restructuring also a strong focus this month. The full moon in your sign on the 25th offers a challenging turning point.

VIRGO AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 22 The Sun, joined by Mars on the 5th, occupy the most creative part of your chart during January. This is definitely the month to get new projects up and running, particularly as Mercury and Venus both change signs later in the month. The first new moon of the year in Capricorn arrives on the 11th, offering some new beginnings and practical help with innovative and pioneering ideas.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 23 Your home and family come to the forefront in January as the Sun illuminates your domestic Area. Venus, your ruler, also moves into down to earth Capricorn on the 23rd, creating important insights for you to act on in a practical manner. Mercury moves direct on the 2nd suggesting your ideas can flow again. The Leo full moon on the 25th brings an exciting sense of adventure and heightens your creativity.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22 Mars, Mercury and Venus are all crowding the financial area of your chart suggesting that business plans and long range ideas are positively highlighted while your mind is sharp and at its best. Jupiter and Uranus are both in Taurus, pulling you toward taking a new and innovative direction. You can expect some big changes this year, but do remember it’s best to keep your options open.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21 As the month begins your sign is positively illuminated by Mars, Mercury and Venus, all offering a very optimistic start to the New Year. Expansion and growth are yours for the asking, but you would do well to have a period of reassessment before you stride forth, as its best not to repeat any past mistakes. After the 5th, dynamic Mars changes sign and shines a positive light on all your productive abilities.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20 January offers a rather introspective start as three planets request that you take time out to review where you are and where you want to be. The current optimistic Sagittarian energy offers you a new perspective on anything that needs adjusting. Dynamic Mars arriving in your sign on the 5th offers the start of an entirely new cycle, and shines a very positive light on any future endeavours.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 18 Action planet Mars joins the Sun in a pivotal position in your chart on the 5th; your intuition is at its height and you should now feel that the time is right to forge ahead with important changes to the structure of your life.

Uranus, your ruler, moves direct on the 27th offering insight into an innovative new phase of work, use this trend to focus on professional challenges.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20 Mystical Neptune is slowly coming to the end of its long journey through your sign. During this time your intuition and your imaginative and creative abilities have all been steadily growing. January offers renewed energy to put all your wisdom into professional challenges and career decisions. Positive breakthroughs will be sure to occur if you follow your intuition with renewed vigour and abundant self-confidence.

Christine is a professional astrologer offering private consultations in astrology, life coaching and Bach flower essences. Bookings for readings for 2024 are now being taken.

NAVIGATE YOUR WAY THROUGH these challenging times, discover your unique birth map and take a refreshing new look at the months ahead. Consultations are available on Skype, Zoom or telephone.

Contact me now to discover what the stars have in store for you during 2024.

Christine Chalklin, Inspirational Astrologer and Life Coach Email: christine_chalklin@hotmail.com

Website: www.yourguidinglight.org Mobile: 07813 483549

Kinloch Rannoch

26

26

21

37

21

14

13

8

30 112 108 80

96

89

99

98

79

Aviemore

57

30

-

83

80

52

68

61

71

70

50

Perth

26 112 83

-

16

47

67

37

31

15

34

Blairgowrie

26 108 80

16

-

45

64

35

30

12

32

Kinloch Rannoch

21

47

45

-

16

16

18

35

17

80

52

Blair Atholl

Blairgowrie

57

-

Dunkeld

Perth

87

87

Aberfeldy

Aviemore

-

Inverness

Kenmore

Inverness

Pitlochry

in Miles

Rannoch Station

Pitlochry

Distance

Rannoch Station

37

96

68

67

64

16

-

32

34

54

34

Kenmore

21

89

61

37

35

16

32

-

7

24

27

Aberfeldy

14

99

71

31

30

18

34

7

-

18

21

Dunkeld

13

98

70

15

12

35

54

24

18

-

20

Blair Atholl

8

79

50

34

32

17

34

27

21

20

-

76 Pitlochry Life

© Pitlochry Life 2019

Pitlochry Life 77

Churches

Accommodation

Pitlochry Flower Club

48

Dunkeld House Hotel

71

Blair Atholl & Struan

62

Pitlochry Garden Share

54

Pitlochry Hydro Hotel

9

Jehovah's Witnesses

66

Pitlochry In Bloom

52

The Atholl Palace Hotel

40

Pitlochry Baptist Church

64

Pitlochry Library

56

The Green Park Hotel

2

Pitlochry Church of Scotland

64

Pitlochry Litter Action

8

The Old Mill Inn

80

Scottish Episcopal Church

62

Pitlochry Moulin Heritage

58

St Bride's Catholic Church

66

Pitlochry Moulin History Soc

18

Tenandry Kirk

62

Pitlochry's Open Kitchen

18

The Baha'i Faith

68

Pitlochry Repair Cafe

20

Pitlochry Rotary Club

18

Attractions Blair Athol Distillery

19

Blair Castle

23

Killiecrankie Visitor Centre

17

Computer Services

Pitlochry Festival Theatre

7

Computer Services

The Atholl Palace Hotel

40

The Old Mill Inn

80

Building Services

Pitlochry Station Bookshop

42

Pitlochry Town & Country Club

48

Community

Rannoch History Society

16

Atholl Centre

32

Scottish Country Dance Class

10

Blair Atholl Bowling Club

56

Scottish Wildlife Trust

12 8,16

55

BMAS

47

Blair Atholl Station Heritage

48

Tryst Walking Group

Brodies Timber

25

Blair Atholl Struan CC

60

u3a

12 58 42

Done Maintenance

31

Blythswood Shoe Box

60

Vale of Atholl Pipe Band

Duncan McLean

35

Breadalbane Heritage Soc

12

Warm Welcome

Graham Fire Protection

17

Breadalbane RDA

52

Home Service Company

31

Christmas Card Delivery

48

J W Lang Painter

31

Climate Cafe

10

J W Lang Tiler

69

Dementia Cafe

8

Dentist

Mark Cameron Painter

46

Dunkeld Birnam Youth Music

44

iBlu Dental Care

63

McKenzie Strickland Architect

61

Dunkeld Strathspey Reel Soc

54

Portman Dental Care

39

Morrison Joinery

46

Edradour Pipe Band

58

NKS Window Cleaner

57

Hearing Aid Clinic

8

Pankhurst Decorators

33

Heartland Film Society

16

RW Bell Green Energy

49

Inner Wheel Club

54

Sean Mclauchlan Electrical

46

Just Singin'

44

Stevie G Roofing

46

KFT CC

10

Suthers Stonemason

69

Killiecrankie Village Hall

18

Mid Atholl Indoor Bowling

56

Mid Atholl WRI

12

Neighbourhood Watch

30

PCAT

38

Financial

Pitlochry Bowling Club

56

Malleny Mortgage Solutions

Pitlochry Community Bonfire

44

Business Services Discover Scotland

25

GrowBiz

32,55

Pitlochry.org

67

Starting New Business

51

78 Pitlochry Life

Crossword/Sudoko Sudoko

45,67

Features Fast Food

26

Fitness

28

Horoscopes

74

Pitlochry Garden

34

Pitlochry Tipple

6

Recipe

50

Volunteering

14

Willie's Wonky Computer

24

61

Food and Drink

Live Music

Blair Athol Distillery

19

The Atholl Palace Hotel

40

Cidsin Bistro

3

The Old Mill Inn

80

Dunkeld House Hotel

71

Fern Cottage

21

Karelia House

17

Killiecrankie Visitor Centre

17

Macdonald Bros Butchers

39

Pitlochry Festival Theatre

7

Pest Control

Pitlochry Hydro Hotel

9

Andy Law

The Atholl Palace Hotel

40

The Green Park Hotel

2

Removals

The Old Mill Inn

80

Howes Removals

The Roundhouse Inn

1

Victoria's

21

Funeral Directors Gaulds

53

Strowan Cemetery

53

W&K Gerrie

69

MPs & Councillors John Swinney MSP

22,65

Murdo Fraser MSP

22,65

Pete Wishart MP

20,65

57

43

Repairs Perthshire Guitar Services

57

Schools Morrison's Academy

29

Strathallan School

11

Shopping

Garden Services Duncan McLean

35

Reid Tree Garden Services

35

Tree Maintenance Services

33

Blair Athol Distillery

19

Karelia House

17

Macdonald Bros Butchers

39

Solicitors & Estate Agents

Health & Beauty

J&H Mitchell

36

Macnabs

43

Elaine Burns Podiatry

59

GRM Podiatry

59

Hair With Hazel

59

Taxi & Transport

Heartland Hearing

45

Highland Travel Taxi

55

Lesley McLean Footcare

59

Stagecoach

13

Pitlochry Osteopathic Clinic

43

The Atholl Palace Hotel

40

Homes For Sale J&H Mitchell

I N D E X

Vacancies Blair Castle

23

Parc Royale

33

36

Pitlochry Life 79