Pitlochry Life November 2023

PITLOCHRY

LIFE

November 2023 Issue 402

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

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CONTENTS

49,69 Sudoku

8 The Pitlochry Tipple

This month Ewan talks about the recent launch of his ‘Taibhse Cask’.

12 Your Community

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

26 Willie's Wonky Computer

Willie gives some advice on removing iPhone calendar spam.

28 Top Toys!

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Our annual review of the top toys in demand this Christmas.

Crossword

32 Fitness With Alan Clinch

Alan looks at arthritis, what causes it and what you should do about it.

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Advertising

Top Toys

Debbie - 07545299491

Photography & Design Lynsey - 07305577953

Editor

Willie - 07906375953

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

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Recipe

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

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Deadline for December is 12

36 The Pitlochry Garden

As the season comes to an end, Sheila looks at things to do in November.

WELCOME

49 Sudoku

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

56 Recipe This month we look at the history of baked beans, with a couple of recipes.

Pitlochry Crossword 71 The Lesley is back, to test your crossword ability, along with local and Scottish knowledge!

Welcome to the November edition of Pitlochry Life. The clocks may have changed and the nights are getting darker, but there is so much to see and do this Autumn that honestly I don’t know how we will fit it all in.

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Wonky Computer

We have the Bonfire Night, a Choral rendition of The Messiah, live music evenings at The Old Mill Inn and The Atholl Palace Hotel every weekend, and that’s all before we even get started on the Christmas activities. In November and early December we have some fantastic Christmas Fairs, a Santa Spectacular, Christmas Parties and fantastic shows at the Pitlochry Festival Theatre. All our great locals clubs and societies are also busy this month with talks, outings and competitions. It’s going to be tough to fit it all in!

Alan looks at Osteoarthritis in the fitness column, Sheila tells us how to relax in the garden at this time of year and Willie cleans your phone of a calendar virus! He's has also been busy making beans and researching their history.

Our editorial feature this month is TOYS. Well it wouldn’t be Christmas without this now would it!

With so many hospitality venues here in the town why not indulge yourself with breakfast, lunch or even dinner whilst soaking up the relaxing atmosphere or even try our cycle routes. There is so much to see and do! It’s not long now until the Christmas Lights go on!

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The Pitlochry Garden noon on the 12th November

Have a great November and see you next time.

SKY SPORTS BT SPORTS

FULL BAR OPEN UNTIL LATE

Official Venue

check our facebook page for game times Amber Rye on draught available at the bar

CHRISTMAS

DAYTIME/EVENING EVENTS. Contact us if you are interested in holding a Christmas Meal or Party Night for your friends/family or business.

VISITORS & DOGS WELCOME

OPEN 5 DAYS

FIREWORKS Sunday 5th November £3 entry. 6pm start.

Join us for some delicious food with a stunning view!

WED, THUR, SUN 9:30 - 10pm FRI - SAT 9:30 - 11pm

Join us in a warm cosy environment for a knit & natter on

Fridays 12pm to 3pm 10th November to 22nd March

Check our Facebook page for November date

To book, call 01796 481552 or contact us via Facebook The Tulach, Blair Atholl Golf Club, Invertilt Road, Bridge of Tilt, Blair Atholl, PH18 5TE

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‘Taibhse Cask’ – Launch After several unforeseen delays, ‘Taibhse Cask’ (meaning ghost cask), was launched in The Netherlands on the 7th of October.

Why The Netherlands I hear you ask? Well, it all started with a WhatsApp message with a good customer and friend, Leen van Wijk who owns a small chain of off licences in and around the Rotterdam suburbs. Leen has bought many of our previous ‘Robertsons’ bottlings and was hosting a whisky festival in his shop in Capelle aan del IJssel.

We had spoken about releasing new bottlings and the idea of releasing the next range at his festival was born.

To say the journey from that conversation to sitting the three bottlings down on the table at the festival was stressful would not be an understatement.

I’ve aged a year for every month the whiskies were finishing in their octaves!

Octave and sampled it, then the 12yo Speyside in Pedro Ximenez and finally the 5yo Highland (lightly peated) in Virgin Oak. The smile on Leens face said it all.

The real test was in the feedback from the 200 guests coming to the festival. These whiskies were bottled at natural cask strength ranging from 55.1% So why so stressful. The process for this project abv to 60% abv. This is quite uncommon in The should have been simple: Netherlands as most are bottled at 40-46% abv.

1. Choose a cask of whisky.

The whole point of me being at the festival was 2. Decide what ‘finishing’ octave to use. to talk to customers about the project, what and 3. Choose a bottle. why they were bottled as they were, and in a small part educating consumers on how to drink them.

4. Design a label.

Adding a few drops of water, at this strength, is 5. Decide when the whisky is ready to bottle and absolutely the correct thing to do. The benefits are pull all the components together. twofold, lower the abv % by dilution and unlock the However, throw in the bottle becoming unavailable flavour compounds. Many of these consumers were 8 weeks before launch, meaning a new label not used to adding water and the reactions when design to fit the new shaped bottle, delays in label they did were comical and very satisfying. printing, and collection of the finished bottles on The event was very successful, all the stock I took the way to the catch the ferry, and you get a sense across was sold and the remaining bottles are of why I’ve aged. available in the shop to taste and buy. As for my I’ve mentioned these new bottlings before, in my additional grey hair, I say it is character forming. piece about the use of Virgin Oak casks. I’d tasted the casks during their maturation journey, but the Ewan McIlwraith first taste from the finished bottle with the finished Robertsons of Pitlochry & The Bothy Tasting Room label, with a customer, is always exciting and nerve 44-46 Atholl Rd, Pitlochry PH16 5BX wracking in equal measures. So, we opened the www.robertsonsofpitlochry.co.uk first bottle the 11 Highland finished in Red Wine 8 Pitlochry Life

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Fern Cottage Restaurant

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www.ferncottagepitlochry.co.uk Tel. 01796473840

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Killiecrankie Village Hall - 2nd &10th November Touring magician and entertainer, Greg Chapman, will perform his Magic of Dinosaurs show in Killiecrankie Village Hall at 6.30pm on Thursday, 2 November 2023. An evening for adults and children (6 years+) with comedy, magic, puppetry and more. Tickets cost £6 and are available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/gregchapman To celebrate a new WiFi connection, Killiecrankie Village Hall Committee invites you to test your general knowledge at ‘Password’ Quiz Night on Friday, 10 November 2023 at 7pm. Entry of £5 per person includes tea, coffee and snack. For details of this and how to hire the hall for your own private do, see www.killiecrankievillagehall.co.uk

The Pitlochry and Edradour Distillery Community Bonfire - 4th November The Pitlochry and Edradour Distillery Community Bonfire Firework Display will take place on Saturday the 4th of November.

Gates open at 6pm, there will be food stalls, music, Bruce Entertainments, storytelling and more…

The Fire will be lit at 6.30pm with the Fireworks at 7pm.

Thanks to the much appreciated support of the public and local businesses entry is free, however donations on the night will be welcome towards next year’s event!

Bring your entries for the Guy Competition to the Pavilion for 6.30 pm.

If you would like to help out on the night please phone Morag on 01796 472952.

Fingers crossed for a fine, dry night!

Dunkeld & Birnam Art and Crafts Fair- 4th & 5th November Dunkeld & Birnam Art and Crafts Fair takes place in The Drill Hall The Cross Dunkeld on 4th and 5th November.

We have new crafters with glass, photograph cards, celtic knitwear and slate. The Fair runs from 10am to 5pm each day and entry is free. Come and meet the makers.

Pitlochry Repair Cafe - 5th November Pitlochry Repair Cafe returns to Moulin Hall on Sunday 5 November from 12-3pm with a bang!

As well as the normal drop-in repairs and homemade baking, as our Guy Fawkes special we will be offering a special one-hour workshop with Ruth from Roobedo in sashiko stitching and Boro (mending). More info on our Facebook page. Andy, our bike specialist, will also be offering free one:one or small group lessons to help you mend your bike eg. how to change an inner tube, how to fix a puncture, how to check your brakes. Contact us on Facebook to book a slot telling us what you'd like to learn!

Bring your items for repair - textiles, bikes, electronics, appliances, woodwork, furniture, toys and more!

Repairs and refreshments are all free and donations are welcome. Kids and dogs are welcome too! Questions? Contact Julia on repaircafe@sprout-community-eco-hub.com or on Facebook / Instagram @PitlochryRepairCafe Our following session will be Sunday 3 December.

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Hearing Aid Drop-in Clinic - 7th November 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 7th November 2023 between 10.00am - 12.00 noon at the Pitlochry Community Hospital.

Climate Cafe - 9th November “Sustainability takes forever. And that's the point”. William McDonough In a Climate Cafe everyone is welcome to join in on conversations on concerns and interests about the climate change issues we face and the actions we can take.

Climate Cafes: Here is a list of the dates for Climate Cafes for November and December 2023 should you be interested in coming along - (7pm to 9pm) - Thursday 9th Nov and Thursday 7th Dec. They will all continue to be either virtual or in person. The main venue is the Pitlochry Library, 26 Atholl Rd, Pitlochry PH16 5BX unless otherwise stated. For more information contact: Carol Aitken on the new email address: pitlochrydistrictcc@gmail.com Climate Cafes Fast Fashion Event in 2024. Our local Climate Cafes including Aberfeldy, Dunkeld & Birnam, Blairgowrie & Rattray are organising a combined CC event early in 2024 possibly in Ballinluig. More information to follow.

PCAT Environment & Sustainability Group and Friends. We have organised a Community Energy Fair on Saturday 11th November 2023. 10am to 4pm in the Pitlochry Town Hall. Watch out for the posters. For more information contact : Carol Aitken at environment@pitlochryaction.org.uk

Scottish Country Dancing - 9th, 16th & 23rd November Moulin Hall 7.30pm.

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 9th, 16th & 23rd November.

All welcome. Admission payable nightly £4.00. For further details contact June on 01796 473488.

Tryst Walking Group - 11th and 23rd November Sat 11 Nov: Glen Bruar / Gleann a’ Chrombaidh (£2). From Calvine, the walk goes up Glen Bruar, then turns down to join the track up Gleann a’ Chrombaidh, to Clunes Lodge and the old A9.

We will need to transfer cars to Clunes Lodge at the start of the walk. Height gained 250 metres.

Distance 5 miles. OS Map 42 & 43.

Thurs 23 Nov: Atholl Woods (£2). This is a circular walk starting at the Cally car park at Dunkeld (Grid ref: 023437). The route goes north to Mill Dam then turns south west passing Rotmell Wood and returning via Polney Loch. All on good tracks. Height climbed 100m. Distance 7 miles.

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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Pitlochry Garden Share - 11th November Here is our fantastic brand new logo! It was designed by local artist Dylan Gibson, who has generously gifted the logo to us. Many thanks to Dylan. You can check out his work on www.dylangibsonillustration.co.uk There will be no stall this month, but we will have one at the Energy Fair being held at the Town Hall on Saturday November 11th between 10am and 4pm.

(This Fair is a PCAT Environment and Sustainability Group event. Further details will become available soon). Our stall will as usual give information about our organisation, and there will be some produce to sample.

There will be no stalls after this until March.

We are looking for old gardening tools, especially forks and spades. If anyone has any unwanted ones, please let us know!

As always, new gardeners are very welcome. Contact us on our Facebook page, or via pitlochrygardenshare@gmail.com for more information.

Ballinluig Bazaar - 11th November The next Ballinluig Bazaar will be on Saturday 11th November. This month the Bazaar will be a Cristmas Craft Fair running from 10.00am until 3.00pm in the lovely Mid Atholl Hall at Ballinluig.

We use the Mid Atholl Hall because of its excellent facilities and its easy access from Aberfeldy, Dunkeld and Pitlochry. Remember also that Ballinluig Bazaar is completely indoors. There may be gales and snow outdoors but you are well protected as you enjoy our crafts.

Contacts: Jenny 01796 473129; Judith 01796 473003; Julie 01796 482274.

Rannoch History Society - 11th November On Saturday 11th November 2023 members and friends of Rannoch History Society look forward to welcoming Seonag Barbour, known to many of us as a neighbour and Gaelic scholar and speaker. The subject of Seonag’s illustrated talk will be ‘Gaelic Footsteps in Highland Perthshire’. It will give an insight into the rich evidence of Gaelic settlement and influence on the landscape and an opportunity to understand more about past and present in this most beautiful and historic part of Scotland.

The meeting will take place in Kinloch Rannoch Village Hall at 2.30pm on 11th November. Light refreshments will be served at the conclusion.

All are warmly invited to attend. The charge will be £5 for non-members.

Pitlochry Litter Action Group - 14th November The tourist season is well on the way. It would be nice for residents and visitors if the town is really clean with no litter disfiguring the streets and green spaces. If you agree that this is important do join our team of litterpickers. All equipment is provided including gloves, black bags and grabbers. We do try to separate recyclable waste from the other litter.

Litterpicks take place on the second Tuesday of the month and we meet at 10.0am in the Recreation ground carpark.

The next litterpick is on Tuesday 14th November.

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Open 10am serving brunch, lunch & dinner until late. From our family to yours, we warmly welcome you to Victoria’s.

Brunch, Lunch & Baking by day Bistro dining & top notch wines from 5.30 pm

We look forward to welcoming you!

Victoria's Gift Vouchers available from £20 online

BRUNCH

LUNCH

DINNER

01796 472 670 | www.victorias-pitlochry.co.uk

45 Atholl Road, Pitlochry | reservations@victorias-pitlochry.co.uk

Malcolm Appleby Designer, Engraver, Silversmith, Goldsmith Shop Open By Appointment 10-5 (not Sundays)

COCKTAILS Follow us online:

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By Aberfeldy Perthshire PH15 2QU

01887 840484 swapp@dircon.co.uk @malcolm_appleby_engraving @malcolmappleby46

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Dates for litterpicks in 2023 are: December 12th.

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.

Pitlochry & District u3a - 15th November The next meeting of Pitlochry & District u3a will be on Wed 15th Nov. Our speaker will be Shamus McPhee who will be talking about Growing Up as a Gypsy Traveller and Tales from the ‘Tinker Experiment’. This follows an exhibition including Shamus’s work earlier in the year. We look forward to welcoming you along to what promises to be an informative and interesting talk. We meet in the Atholl Centre and our meetings start at 2pm.

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.

Pitlochry Flower Club - 15th November Our next meeting will be on Wednesday 15th November at the Tryst Hall, Pitlochry at 2pm when Pamela Galloway will give a demonstration entitled "Foraging for Christmas". There will be a raffle when you may be one of the lucky ones to win one of Pamela's beautiful arrangements, and also a sales table so that you can restock on supplies. Visitors will be most welcome for a small charge of £8. Please do come along and have a fun afternoon watching Pamela create stunning floral arrangements.

We are a small club and new members would be very welcome at any time. We have also a Christmas Workshop on Friday 24th November, where you can create your own Christmas door wreath and table decoration, to which all are welcome (ticket price £40). Please note that names have to be in for this by early November. For more information on any of the Club activities, please contact Lynda Gardiner (01796 472157, lynda.gardiner@talk21.com)

Pitlochry Town & Country Club - 16th November The next meeting will be held on Thursday 16th November, when Carol MacGill will inspire us with beautiful Christmas decorations. Meetings are held in the Aldour Community Hall from 2pm until 4pm where we enjoy tea and home bakes. The cost is €3 per person per meeting.

Anyone requiring transport can be collected by the Community Bus if you let me know at least the day before if you are coming to the meeting. Contact Kathleen Scott 472765.

Hope to see you there.

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The Breadalbane Heritage Society - 17th November The Breadalbane Heritage Society is now well into its programme of autumn and winter talks, taking over from the summer programme of excursions. Topics range from the work of the Tayside Raptor Study Group and the history of the Black Watch to plans for the exciting new Scottish Crannog Centre at present under construction on Loch Tay. The talk this month, Deciphering the Language of our Local Landscape by well-kent local speaker Colin Liddell, will be held on Friday 17 November at 7.30pm in the Breadalbane Community Campus in Aberfeldy. During Lockdown, Colin researched and endeavoured to translate all the Gaelic place names within the 175 square miles surrounding Pitlochry. He will explain why and how he did this and will illustrate a number of fascinating features of the life carried on in the foothills of Highland Perthshire and beyond, which have been revealed through these translations.

Doors are open from 7.00 pm onwards for those who would like to meet beforehand and look at the various displays.

During January and February talks are held on Zoom, otherwise at the Breadalbane Community Campus. 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 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 https://breadalbane-heritage.org.uk

Pitlochry & District Choral Society - 19th November We are very excited about singing Handel's Messiah on 19th November in Breadalbane Academy and 26th November in Comrie Parish Church and hope that you will be coming along to enjoy the experience. All details are on the advert on page 33 in this issue.

Our Christmas concert will be in Pitlochry Church of Scotland on Sunday 17th December. This year, in addition to seasonal songs, readings and traditional carols there will be excerpts from the musical “Les Miserables”. We look forward to seeing you at our "Musical Christmas".

Killiecrankie, Fincastle & Tummel CC - 20th November Killiecrankie, Fincastle & Tummel Community Council will hold its Annual General Meeting in Killiecrankie Village Hall on Monday, 20 November 2023 at 7pm. The AGM will be followed by the final, ordinary meeting of the year. Everyone is welcome.

Minutes of the last meeting on 18 September are on the website www.killiecrankievillagehall. co.uk/community-council/ If you would like to receive regular updates from us, please send a request to join the mailing list to info@kftcommunitycouncil.co.uk

Mid Atholl and Strathtay SWI - 22nd November Mid Atholl and Strathtay SWI will be celebrating their birthday with a meal out at a local restaurant.

Competitions - photo of a local view, £5 gift wrapped parcel .

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Established 1928

MacDonald Brothers Butchers & Delicatessen

As part of our continuing support to the Highland Perthshire community, we will donate a £5 voucher to the Atholl Food Bank and Aberfeldy Community Larder for every Turkey order placed before 30th November 2023.

· Free Range Turkeys, Geese, Capons, Ducks and Scrumptious Glazed Hams · Chipolata Sausages, Streaky Bacon & Goose Fat · Homemade Stuffings · Award Winning Steak Pies Free Delivery in Highland Perthshire - Next Day Delivery anywhere in Mainland UK - Phone for details and to place your order.

6-8 Bonnethill Road, Pitlochry PH16 5BS Tel: 01796 472047 12 Bank Street, Aberfeldy PH15 2BB Tel: 01887 820310 www.macdonald-bros.co.uk

Heartland Film Society at The Birks - 24th - 26th November Aberfeldy Film Festival 2023 Gallus Wimmen Brighten up November by joining us at The Birks for a celebration of women in film – as writers, directors and characters. Get in the mood on Friday evening with drinks and nibbles before the screening of The Party – a black comedy written and directed by Sally Potter and with a brilliant cast. Opposition MP, Janet, has invited some close friends to join her in celebrating her promotion to shadow Minister for Health. It all starts well, but, as the wine flows and tongues loosen, the atmosphere begins to change.

The Saturday afternoon film, The Secret World of Arrietty, from Studio Ghibli, is a delight not only for children, but for all ages. It’s followed in the evening by 20,000 Species of Bees, featuring a remarkable, award-winning performance from Sofia Otero as a youngster exploring her gender identity during a summer spent amongst beekeepers. The final film, Petite Maman, on Sunday evening, is a funny, sad and fascinating exploration of loss and grief. After her grandmother’s death, young Nelly is helping to clear out her mother’s childhood home when she meets and makes friends with a girl very like herself. Written and directed by Céline Sciamma.

Friday 24 to Sunday 26 November The Birks Cinema Aberfeldy Full details: www.birkscinema.co.uk www.heartlandfilmsociety.org.uk Everyone’s welcome at HFS screenings, but membership costs just £10 for12 months of reduced prices for HFS films, plus the chance to contribute to programme choices.

Macmillan Cancer Support - 25th November The official Macmillan World’s Biggest Coffee Morning was on Friday 29th September. The Highland Perthshire Fundraising Group was once more very pleased that the Green Park Hotel hosted their coffee morning which raised a fantastic £2668.70. This event would not happen without the huge generosity of the Green Park Hotel owners, Diane & Alistair McMenemie, who have raised over an astonishing £44k for Macmillan since 1997, so a huge thank you to them & all their amazing staff. Thank you to all the wonderful local businesses who donated prizes to our raffle. The raffle alone raised almost £700! Sincere thanks also to everyone who came. We hope you enjoyed the wonderful spread & Alistair’s banter too!

We still managed to go ahead with our Ceilidh on Saturday 7th October, despite the torrential rain & closed roads. The wet weather didn’t dampen spirits and we had a fun evening of music & dancing. A huge thank you to our excellent musicians Peter Stewart & Joan Blue, brilliant piper Mark Inglis, the Committee of the Mid Atholl Hall at Ballinluig, all of the wonderful donors of our raffle prizes & to all of you who braved the awful weather to attend. The Ceilidh raised £777.31 which was just superb, given the night it was outside!

Our next event is our Christmas Tea Party on Saturday 25th November at 2pm at the Grandtully Village Hall. Please come and join us for some cakes, a cuppa, & some festive cheer.

Finally, the Highland Perthshire Fundraising Group is keen to recruit more local volunteers. Can you help? We run a few fundraising events a year in Highland Perthshire - they are always a lot of fun. If you think you can spare a few hours, please call Liz on 07866556360, or email Fiona at malarkey99@gmail.com

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Pitlochry’s Open Kitchen - 26th November We meet on the last Sunday of most months at the Atholl Centre, Pitlochry (this month on Sunday 26th November) between 3 and 6pm, for an informal social cooking session. Using produce from our gardens (depending on the time of year of course!), we get together, share recipes, eat and enjoy each other’s company.

We also look at ways to reduce food waste and preserve food (e.g. making jams, chutney and canning vegetables). Events are free to attend thanks to funding we recently received from PKC. All are welcome including children if supervised. But please do let us know if you plan to come along, so we have some idea of numbers. For more info send an email to theopenkitchen22@gmail.com or check out our Facebook page.

Pitlochry and Moulin History Society - 27th November The November meeting will offer something a bit different, an opportunity to participate in a historic trial! Will you send a man to the gallows? Best-selling author Mark Bridgeman will be presenting a real life Perthshire murder trial in which you, the audience, will become the jury. With a prize for the winner and a Q&A to follow, this promises to be a night to remember. The meeting will be on Monday 27 November in the Pitlochry Tryst at 7.30. Entry is £3 and there will be tea and coffee and a chance to talk afterwards.

The Society is looking for helpers/committee members. If you can help out speak to someone at the meeting.

Pete Wishart MP - Perth & North Perthshire - SNP At the time of writing, I have just been out visiting households who were hit by the torrent of rainfall that caused flooding across my constituency, including much of Highland Perthshire.

This event was utterly relentless, and my sympathies are very much with those who were impacted. My office has been working hard to assist affected constituents who have gotten in touch, and remains on standby for anybody who is seeking support.

I have also just met with PKC senior management, where there was agreement that all available resources must be mobilised as part of recovery efforts. One can only hope that we don’t see such extreme weather for the foreseeable future, but with climate change making such events more and more frequent, it is imperative that we are as best equipped to deal with it as possible. This is something I know PKC, SEPA, and other bodies are currently looking at.

We are also now at that time of year where we are feeling the pinch of the colder weather, and with that of course comes the issue of higher energy bills.

After the chaos of last year, I think everybody had been both hoping and assuming that things would be looking up this time around, particularly given that global energy market prices seem to have settled, at least somewhat. However, the latest Ofgem price cap announcement paints a troublingly familiar, with energy bills still double what they were two years ago.

It is incomprehensible that this is the reality for a second year running, and begs the question of what on earth the UK Government has been doing to fix the country’s badly broken energy market over that time. It is abundantly clear that the price cap is not fit for purpose and that a new support package needs to be introduced in order to prevent another winter of despair and suffering for millions.

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Willie’s Wonky Computer Factory I’ve been getting weird appointments and strange reminders popping up on my iPhone.

Having asked around, this seems a fairly common problem and comes down to two things - iPhone Calendar Virus, or iPhone Calendar Spam. iPhone Calendar Virus. This is actually quite rare. The symptoms will include a sudden drop in battery life, the phone getting hot for no reason, new apps that you haven’t installed appearing and frequent app crashes. This is fairly easy to remove - uninstall any unfamiliar apps then check your battery health. To remove the spam part just follow the directions below.

If this doesn't cure the problem, then best to get support from the Apple Genius Bar. You can access this through www.apple.com/uk/ retail/geniusbar and speak to an Apple expert either by phone, chat or email. They will be able to help you without having to attend an Apple Store (which requires an appointmnet) and is a free service.

personal information getting compromised.

Unfortunately, because Apple’s products are so interlinked, if you get spam in your iPhone calendar it’s inevitable that it will also turn up on all your other Apple devices.

Number-one rule: never click on any links or other active sections of the appointments.

Here’s how to clean up your phone and stop the spam: Delete spam events 1.

Open the Calendar app on your iPhone.

You’ll see all events, including spam events. Note the colour of the spam event invites.

2.

On the main page, tap the Calendars button at the bottom. A list with all the calendars synced to your iPhone will show up.

3.

Look for the spam event’s colour and tap the i button next to it.

4. Scroll down and tap Delete Calendar iPhone Calendar Spam. This is the more likely to delete all spam events from your cause of your problem and thankfully, iPhone iPhone. Note: If spam calendar events Calendar Spam is not dangerous and should be are displayed with more than one colour, easy to get rid of. It is similar to phishing emails, perform the steps for those colours. where hackers create text messages, emails, web pages, and popups with links that look very Hopefully that will put an end to the unwanted similar to the original page. invites.

The usual route on to your iPhone is through If that doesn’t fix the problem, it may be emails and text messages that include invites, that the troublesome calendar has set up a links to events, or asking you to track a parcel. subscription on your phone and this will need to Then, when the you unknowingly click on these be deleted too. links, it takes you to the Calendar app. Even if 1. Open Settings. you press back or decline the event, iPhone’s default settings are in such a way that these 2. Select Calendar > Accounts. hackers can still send spam calendar events.

3. Look for the Subscribed Calendars option Apple is partly at fault here since they allow and tap it. anyone, including the people not in your 4. Find any calendars that you don’t want, contacts, to send calendar invites to your don’t recognise or haven’t subscribed iPhone. Since you aren’t expecting spam links to. Then select them and tap the Delete in the Calendar app, you will probably click on Account option. the link in the event, which will lead you to a phishing page. These pages may contain hacking Job done. scripts and malware that could result in your Willie 26 Pitlochry Life

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Pitlochry Life 27

be What Toys will bestsellers

for Christmas 2023?

Well it’s that time of year again and as many a parent will know getting the right present can be tough. With so much choice and the gifts being so expensive we have taken a look at what the experts predict will be high on the wish list. We also asked our kids what they loved playing with when they were younger and it’s not always the same toys! Here’s our suggestions and hopefully they won’t break the bank.

Crayola Colour’n’ Style Mermaid Friends Suitable for kids over 3. Kids will love colouring and styling their mermaid over and over again. Use the pens to colour and style anyway you like and then decorate with the reusable stickers. There is a tiara, brush and charms to add style to your mermaid.

When you have finished simply wipe off the colours and the fun can begin again! The sets are around £15 and there are several to choose from - so a good gift if you need to buy a few presents!

Barbie Well what can you say after this years blockbuster Barbie Pink is everywhere.

From dolls to accessories even a new Dream House. We can recommend dolls from £20 in all ranges of outfits from Travel Barbie, Barbie Soccer Doll, Barbie Baby Doctor. Watch out for the Dream House though because at £200 - £250 it’s not cheap. You can take home your own slice of Barbie the Movie with The collectors Margot Robbie Doll. She is wearing a pink gingham dress her long blond hair is styled in a half up do and tied with a matching pink ribbon and a daisy chain necklace- just like in the movie. Her look is completed with pink bracelet and pumps. Barbie The Movie is around £45 and there is a matching Ken Doll too - all Barbies sold separately.

Bitzee Interactive Pet If your child keeps asking for a pet but you’re not quite ready to commit to the real thing, consider this digital version that you can touch and feel. With a choice of 15 animals, including a cat, bunny and unicorn, each Bitzee starts as a baby and, just like a real pet, these virtual pets need love and care to grow. Around £32 Gabby’s Dollhouse Cat Friendship Cruise playset Set sail on the pretend seas with this cruise ship toy from DreamWorks Gabby’s Dollhouse. The set comes with 18 pieces including a Gabby Girl doll and MerCat figure, along with lots of dollhouse accessories and furniture.

There’s even a pool with a smoothie bar, a disco with a light-up disco ball and a photo booth. Around £40

Junior Pictionary An imaginative fun game for kids. You don’t

need to be an artist, in fact the worse the drawing the more funny it can be! Suitable for 7 years an up - all the family can join in and it’s a great game! Available at around £27

Throw Throw Avocado A Game by Exploding Kittens - Creators of award-winning, hilarious and entertaining games that adults, teens and kids will all enjoy! Great game for picnics, camping or travel! It’s dead easy to play, takes 15 minutes of madness, collect matching sets of cards faster than your opponents simultaneously while ducking and dodging and throwing squishy avocados! Mind and put away the breakable ornaments, and enjoy that moment of family madness - Around £17

Lego Star Wars Ghost & Phantom II set featuring 2 brick built Ahsoka

vehicle with 4 character figures. Well this is for the older kids I think at £150. If you have been watching the new Ahsoka series on TV it might just be what you’ve been waiting to add to your collection. With 1394 pieces you can have lots of fun building the 2 vehicles. They even combine to form a big starship! Comes with 4 LEGO Star Wars minifigures General Hera Syndulla and Lt. Beyta, each with a blaster pistol, Jacen Syndulla and First Officer Hawkins, plus a Chopper (C1-10P) LEGO Star Wars droid figure.

Also available is Lego Star Wars Ahsoka trooper battle pack at £19 to build on the theme of Ahsoka

Squishmallow Toys Super Soft 10 inches Baby Yoda

Squishamllow Large Mandalorian. These toys are super soft and squishy and very cute. There is a whole range of them - so lots for grandparents to choose from and at around £10- £15 they won’t break the bank. I also like DREW the Dragon!

Nerf Elite 2.0 Double Punch Blaster The double punch blaster means only one thing – double barrels - designed with two barrels that rapidly move back and forth as you fire. You can load both 10-dart clips onto the toy blaster and unleash 20 darts in your game of choice, be it indoor or outdoor - Around £28-36 Lego Harry Potter Dobby the House Elf It’s been a while since I saw the Harry Potter films but I still love Dobby- just remember the sock! The ultimate toy for Harry Potter fans, this Lego set allows your little one to build Dobby the House-Elf, a beloved character from the Wizarding World. He has a posable head, ears, arms and fingers so kids can change his look and he can hold the brick-built accessories, which include Aunt Petunia’s floating pudding cake and a model of Tom Riddle’s diary with Harry Potter’s sock - £25

By putting the millions of pounds unspent from previous schemes into reducing energy bills via targeted energy discounts for low-income and vulnerable households, the UK Government could do exactly that. This is a matter that the SNP Westminster Group is puahing to bring back on to the table.

One energy support scheme that I wanted to bring to readers’ attention is the Warm Homes Discount Scheme, which takes £150 off the electricity bills of people who meet the following criteria: · Your energy supplier is signed up to the scheme. · you (or your partner) get certain means-tested benefits or tax credits. · your name (or your partner’s) is on the bill.

You do not need to apply if you get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit. You’ll automatically get a letter telling you about the discount if you’re eligible.

Otherwise, you’ll need to apply via your energy supplier by contacting them directly. If you need any assistance with this, please don’t hesitate to contact my office on pete.wishart.mp@ parliament.uk or 01738 639 598.

Murdo Fraser - Mid Scotland & Fife - Conservative We are now back at the Scottish Parliament after the October recess and it is good to see all my work colleagues again after refreshing the batteries as they say.

I have been busy dealing with emails in my inbox, with many constituents contacting me about a variety of different issues - ranging from concerns about the Short-Term Let Licence legislation to local problems such as poor broadband in their home.

I was interested in the local campaign to keep the listed footbridge at Pitlochry Railway Station. I can see both sides of the story here.

I fully understand the reasons behind Network Rail’s proposal for drawing up the plan as the replacement footbridge structure will be disabled-friendly and have a lift, which is badly needed at the station. However, I can also sympathise with the opponents of the new proposal as many local residents feel the current Victorian footbridge enhances the historic feeling of the rail station, which it does.

The campaigners also feel the old footbridge shouldn’t come down until we see the electrification of the line at Pitlochry rail station. It is a classic case of trying to help elderly and disabled rail commuters, while at the same time endeavouring to retain the historic feel of the station. Some of the campaigners have pointed out that a similar application in the Highland Council area was accepted on condition that the existing bridge is retained until necessary for electrification.

On the subject of transport, I was pleased to read of the extension of the number 91 bus service, which operates between Aberfeldy and Kenmore. This service stops at Acharn, Fearnan, Fortingall and Weem, and it has been extended to a five-day pilot project for the next 12 months, with additional travel between Aberfeldy and Tummel Bridge/Kinloch Rannoch on Saturdays.

The service is operated by Sweeney’s of Muthill, and it will benefit residents living in the outlying area, especially those who live in Kenmore and near Loch Tay, giving them three or four travel options each day, which is very helpful. The funding was made available through Perth and Kinross Council’s successful bid to the Smarter Choices Smarter Places Open Fund, so I would encourage local residents to make full use of this extended bus service.

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.

Continued on page 34

30 Pitlochry Life

Pitlochry Life 31

FITNESS with Alan Clinch

Arthritis – More Common Than You Might Think….

What to do?

The joints most commonly affected are hands, spine, knees, and hips. There isn’t a cure for osteoarthritis, but with care the symptoms can be relieved. The most effective treatments are those that maximise activity – this will help keep muscles and joints What happens? In very simple terms, the condition strong and bone results from damage to protective material, known density up. as cartilage, which lines our joints. Every day our Exercise and physical joints are subjected to wear, but sometimes the activity are unlikely to wear causes damage which cannot be repaired. make the symptoms When the cartilage wears away, the bones rub worse as long as against each other, sometimes exposing nerves a few simple rules which will then cause pain and instability. are followed – try to avoid impact type activities such as running on pavements: exercise on a bike This may be as a result of repeated small injuries or in a swimming pool will keep muscles strong. that don’t heal completely (things such a broken The use of walking poles will also help reduce the bones and/or sporting injuries). Additionally, if people are overweight, extra strain on the weight- impact through the joints. Exercise can also help with weight loss, which in turn will improve posture bearing joints (knees and hips) can lead to more and decrease joint stress. Bear in mind though severe osteoarthritis.

The picture on the right shows a photo of the inside that doing too much exercise too quickly, or doing inappropriate activities, may damage your joints. of my own knee, clearly showing that the tissue is The following websites are those of the biggest damaged (it’s supposed to be smooth…!)

UK organisations working with arthritis, but don’t Because osteoarthritis usually affects the smooth forget the NHS site www.nhs.uk/conditions/ lining of the joint, it makes movement more osteoarthritis/ which I’ve referred to before. difficult, leading to pain and stiffness. Once the We’re now moving into Autumn and Winter, which means that those of us with older (!) or compromised joints may be starting to get that familiar achy feeling. In my case, a combination of events has resulted in the development of osteoarthritis in the left knee. Fortunately, whilst the condition is not curable, it is possible to take some action in order to try and minimise the effects.

Osteo-arthritis is the more common of the two variants (the other being rheumatoid arthritis), affecting around 10 million people in the UK. It can affect people of all ages, including children, though it’s most likely to develop in adults over the age of 40.

cartilage lining starts to thin out (like in the picture of my own knee), the tendons and ligaments that hold the joint in place have to work harder. In turn, this can cause swelling and the development of bony spurs known as osteophytes. The final stage is bone rubbing on bone. This is likely to alter the shape and alignment of the joint.

32 Pitlochry Life

www.arthritisaction.org.uk www.versusarthritis.org

If you are suffering from arthritis then you would certainly benefit from advice from a medical professional – in the first instance this is likely to be your GP. If you think you may be affected by osteo-arthritis, act now…… alan@pitlochrylife.co.uk

PITLOCHRY & DISTRICT CHORAL SOCIETY together with CRIEFF CHORAL GROUP

HANDEL’S MESSIAH Soprano - Colleen Nicoll Contralto - Ulrike Wutscher Tenor - David Douglas Bass - Phil Gault Conductor - Christof Wutscher Orchestra - Afton Ensemble

Sunday 19th November - Breadalbane Academy Sunday 26th November Comrie Parish Church 7.00pm Tickets available now www.pitlochrychoral.co.uk

Adult - £15 Child - £5 Pitlochry Life 33

John Swinney MSP - Perthshire North - SNP Recently, I held my first Scottish Parliament Member's debate in almost 17 years.

During my tenure as a government minister I was unable to lead such debates, which allow backbench MSPs of all parties to bring forward important topics - oftentimes related to local issues impacting their community - for discussion in the Chamber.

The topic I chose for my first debate was to highlight the positive impact of Climate Cafes, and to celebrate the important work they have done both in Perthshire and beyond.

It is a source of enormous pride that the world's first Climate Cafe was launched in Dunkeld & Birnam in 2015. Since then, a number of cafes have been launched across Scotland. Excitingly, we have seen the expansion of Climate Cafes to Highland Perthshire, with cafes being launched in Aberfeldy and Pitlochry. Further afield, we have seen nations such as Finland and Japan join this movement.

The Climate Cafe model is simple: local people come along to an informal gathering with tea and cakes to learn more about climate change and discuss what action can be taken in the local community to address the climate emergency. The meetings are friendly, accessible and built upon the belief that people must work together collaboratively.

Already, there are countless examples of Climate Cafes taking and co-ordinating action for the benefit of their local communities. The Blairgowrie and Rattray Climate Cafe, for example, helped create The HEAT Project, which has delivered energy saving advice to over 700 households, thereby helping local residents to achieve significant savings on their energy bills.

In Dunkeld & Birnam, the local Climate Cafe worked with the local community to reduce water waste and, as a result, saved over 1 million litres of water over the course of a year. This led to Dunkeld & Birnam being awarded the title of Scotland's first water efficient village.

From recently attending Climate Cafes across the constituency, I was struck by the knowledge, passion and dedication of those in attendance. It was also particularly pleasing to see a number of young people in attendance, and to witness the leadership they are providing within these forums.

Whilst it is hugely important that governments across the world take strong action to address the climate emergency, we cannot overlook how crucial it is for local communities to help in this effort.

The local impact that Climate Cafes have cannot be understated, and the fact that they work with communities in a friendly, collaborative manner is, in my view, key to their success.

And if we are to succeed in tackling the climate emergency, it is vital that we properly articulate the stakes involved and bring people along with us on this journey. That, in short, is the great strength of the Climate Cafe movement.

Pitlochry and District Neighbourhood Watch Boiler Scam The scam.

Cold callers have been visiting homes in Scotland and claim that they are working for the local council. They offer the householder a prize if they allow them to inspect their boiler and say that they may be eligible for a free replacement. They have also told some householders that their boiler is faulty and it would cost £500 to fix it but this can be claimed back from the council at a later date.

How to avoid this scam.

If someone comes to your door and says they are working for the council ask them to wait and Continued on page 46

34 Pitlochry Life

Pitlochry Life 35

The Pitlochry Garden November From the beginning of November gardeners can look forward to a good, long rest; nothing to do but put your feet up and wait for spring.

But if you get bored and fidgety here are some things you could do in the garden this month, weather permitting.

On good days, that is, when it’s not raining, prepare new areas for cultivation or places where you want to plant deciduous trees bare root. Digging by hand is heavy work so do the work in stages; or get some help or hire a digger.

November is also the best time to plant new roses or a hedge of bare root whips. Planting bare root can take place any time this winter as long as the ground is open and not covered in snow. If things are delayed by bad weather, aim to get them in before bud-break.

Since the leaves are all down now rake them up and stuff them into black bags to make leaf mould. Really stuff the bags and pierce them a bit before you stash them away out of sight for about a year. While you’re at it, turn over the compost and mix it up thoroughly.

Finish planting the tulips in pots and borders, weeding as you go along and then top up the bark mulch around your plants to keep their roots protected in the winter.

I’m still not advocating cutting herbaceous plants back hard because I like to encourage wild life in the garden and decaying herbaceous material provides food and shelter for the birds.

36 Pitlochry Life

The only shrubs that need pruning now are deciduous shrubs that need restorative pruning; it is not necessary to nip everything back into a nice round ball. This only destroys the natural shape of the plant and fills up the centre with old wood.

Restorative pruning means taking out a third of the oldest (thickest) stems right to the ground.

If you do this every year all the stems will be new ones and the shrub will remain healthy for a longer time. This kind of pruning is useful for maintaining any suckering shrub like lilac or winter-flowering viburnum.

At some point the weather will put you off working outdoors but you could usefully clean up the shed and clean your tools. Remove any soil and clean the blades of your cutting tools with disinfectant; sharpen them and wipe all the blades with an oily rag. Now is also a good time to get the mower serviced.

Sort and stack your empty pots and trays but leave washing them until spring so you are sure they are clean before you sow fresh seed. Brush down the bench and clean the window, then sweep the place out.

Winter is payback time for all the bird song and all the insects caught by your feathered friends so stock up on bird food and hang out the feeders. Now you can get your feet up!

Sheila Drummond

Pitlochry Life 37

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38 Pitlochry Life

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Pitlochry Life 39

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40 Pitlochry Life

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42 Pitlochry Life

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say you are phoning the council to verify this. Then close the door and ring the council. Genuine callers will be happy to wait. Rogue traders will try to pressurise householders into a quick decision but always take time to think. Never agree to make payments for goods or services on the spot.

Report any suspicious activity to Police Scotland on 101 or 999 in an emergency. If you have any concerns about a purchase you have made contact Advice direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000 or via www.scamwatch.scot

Pitlochry/Confolens Twinning Visit The group of 10 visitors arrived on Thursday evening 5th October. The whole 4-day programme aimed to show our visitors something of the local area and all it has to offer, allow them to sample local shopping, sites, food and drink, and explore ways to strengthen and exploit links between our two communities.

Friday's programme commenced with a tour of Blair Castle and its grounds followed by a lovely lunch at the Blair Atholl Watermill and a tour (in French) of the 16th Century mill. Later a tour of the Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Explorers' Garden. Friday evening was spent up at the Moulin Hall with a traditional ceilidh and supper.

Saturday's programme was filled with a visit to the Dam in Pitlochry followed by a lunch and a fabulous cake at the Jac-o-bite cafe in Killiekrankie. The afternoon was spent shopping at local shops and House of Bruar. Sadly, the evening visit to The Enchanted Forest was cancelled due to the bad weather.

Sunday morning was spent shopping, and for some, whisky sampling in Robertsons. Lunch was provided at Fisher's Hotel where they were piped in and then officially greeted by the Provost of Perth and Kinross: Xander McDade. Lunch was followed by a match of pétanque at the pitch at the Hydro Hotel. The game, conducted in the rain, concluded in a diplomatic draw.

The party returned to France early on the Monday morning with old friendships strengthened and new friendships made. It is hoped that this latest visit will enable stronger ties to be made between our two communities particularly between young people in the schools of each town.

If you are interested in finding out more about the twinning programme please look at our Facebook page www.facebook.com/groups/977431422416859 or contact: Tom McEwan tgmcewan@hotmail.com

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

We’re on the ‘Look Out’ for Volunteers for this year’s Community Christmas Lunch. Please call or drop in at the Atholl Centre 01796 473044 if you would like to join us.

Pitlochry’s Open Kitchen is @The Atholl Centre – Come along to join us at the end of November (26 ) 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

As we head towards Autumn weather, donate/swap/take a ‘new to you’ Winter coat from the Atholl Centre Coat Rail.

Warm Welcome - These Pitlochry locations are open over the winter months till the end of Continued on page 48

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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 – 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 Church of Scotland Christmas Tree Festival Saturday 2nd Dec 10am – 4pm, and Sunday 3rd Dec 2pm – 4pm at the Tryst and Church of Scotland. Evening Concert Sunday with invited guests.

For Application forms contact Atholl Centre, or The Christmas Emporium.

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

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 of every month, between 10.00am and 12 midday. We can provide support with Housing issues and Benefit queries/applications. We also provide support to access a range of available services. Please feel free to drop in for a chat.

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

Warm Rooms Mondays

- Atholl Centre - in the TV room - 10am to 1pm. Tea, coffee and biscuit - Bowling Club -11am to 3pm. Soup, bacon rolls, tea and coffee

Wednesdays - Church of Scotland – in the Tryst lounge - 10.30 to 3pm. Tea, coffee and biscuits - Bowling Club - 11am to 3pm. Soup, bacon rolls, tea and coffee Thursdays

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

Fridays

- Baptist Church Welcome All lunch – Atholl Centre - 10am to 2pm. Soup n roll. Tea, coffee and cakes

Saturdays

- Library - 9.30 am to 12.30pm – refreshments. Warm packs available – blanket, gloves, kids socks, hot water bottle and hand warmers.

All locations are free and open to all.

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Continued on page 50

This Month’s Tricky Sudoku 5 8

9 2

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

1 1

7

6

8 4

6

5

2 8

1

3

8 1

2 8

1

7

3 2

5

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!

9 Pitlochry Life 49

Winter Resilience Events Wednesday 1st November, 11.30am – 2.30pm, Tayside Hotel, Stanley. Free soup lunch included.

Tuesday 7th November, 1-3pm, Lesser Town Hall, Aberfeldy. Free tea and biscuits. £1 Bingo at 1.30pm with cash prizes.

Thursday 16th November, 1.30-3pm, Strathmore Hub, Coupar Angus. Free tea and biscuits. **Free entry into a prize draw for a hamper full of local goodies for everyone who attends** Come along to find out information from local support organisations to help you through the winter months, we can offer: •

Health & wellbeing

•

Hearing aid and walking stick ferrule repairs

•

Home safety

•

Home energy & money advice

•

Registration to the vulnerable persons list

For more information and advice on travel to the venues please contact either Lindsay McManamon on lmcmanamon@pkc.gov.uk or Audra Webster on audra.webster@nhs.scot

Just Singin` Birnam After all the dreary weather of the past weeks, why not come along to local Community choir, Just Singin' for an uplifting boost? Our 8 week winter term starts at 7.30pm at Birnam Arts on Wednesday 25th October, and continues weekly until 13th December.

Everyone is welcome to come along at any point.

We are delighted to welcome Hannah Rarity, graduate of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and winner of the prestigious BBC Radio Scotland Traditional Music Award, as our tutor for the first four weeks. The joyful Adelaide Carlow, graduate of the Royal College of Music London, accomplished musician and tutor, will make a welcome return to lead us into December. We'd love to welcome you to our friendly group - everything is provided, just come along and join in!

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 Continued on page 52

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Local Christmas Card Delivery Service This year, the local Christmas Card Delivery Service will be raising funds for the Food Bank, the Path Group and our Senior Citizens’ Bus, all on an equal shares basis.

When and where: 4th to 8th December at Victoria’s Restaurant. Mon – Thurs 10.00 am – 3.00 pm and Fri 10.00 am – 11.15 am.

It is a great opportunity to meet and chat as well as contribute to these worthwhile causes, so please get the dates in your diary and start writing your local cards. Not sending cards? Please just pop in to Victoria’s that week anyway and make a donation if you can. Every contribution helps.

We will sort and deliver cards for addresses in and around Pitlochry, from Greengates to Aldour; Moulin to Port-na Craig and everywhere in between, as well as Kinnaird; Donavourd; Croftinloan; West & East Haugh; Dalshian; Ballyoukan; and the Logierait-Dunfallandy Rd (including Murray Terrace).

Suggested donation is still 30p per card.

Donations of dry foods like rice, pasta & cereal, tinned fruit and packet items are always welcome at the Food Bank at the Atholl Centre, (behind the Baptist Church on Atholl Road). Tel. 473044.

If you would like to volunteer as a Bus driver, please phone Ian Moyes on 472425. For the Path Group, please phone Cath Marshall on 470575.

We look forward to seeing you there.

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: 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 Continued on page 58

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Beanz Meanz... Meinz Does anyone not like baked beans? They are the Popularity grew, and every region of the Americas most popular, most sold canned food in the UK and adapted the indigenous recipes to their taste. In can accompany breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes, Boston, Massachusetts ‘Boston Baked Beans’ are sometimes eaten cold, even included with a salad! made with molasses, which makes a rich, caramel We have to thank the HJ Heinz Company (founded sweet dish, along with salt pork, black pepper and, sometimes, onion. They were often slow-cooked

by Henry Heinz) who introduced beans to the UK in 1886, along with tomato ketchup, available then to form a crust (arguably the best bit). As Boston only from Fortnum & Mason in London. They were was an epicentre for rum production at that time, the byproduct was molasses, so was plentiful and considered a luxury item back then and sold for readily available. ninepence a can, which is around £2.15 today.

However, the history of baked beans goes back much farther. The French ‘Cassoulet’, a meat and bean stew, and White Beans and Bacon were popular across Europe and the UK in medieval times and could have been taken by colonists to the Americas in the 17th century. Baked beans as we know them though are made with haricot beans (navy beans in the US) and are native to South America.

The sale of Heinz beans expanded to other less ‘exclusive’ stores in the UK as they became a firm favourite. Their salesmen were expected to be “at least six foot tall, impeccably dressed and particularly eloquent”, according to Heinz, and carried flasks of heated beans to provide samples to potential customers!

fat to produce a wholesome, tasty dish, high in calories, protein and fat, and it was most likely this version that was adopted by our ancestors looking for an easy, cheap and sustainable meal.

Heinz originally stuck to their US recipe which included pork, however, it was a little too sweet for tastes in the UK and was eventually modified to a tomato based sauce without maple syrup, molasses or brown sugar. The pork was removed due to wartime rationing, so Heinz baked beans became vegetarian.

The beans were shipped to the UK from their Pittsburgh factory until 1928, when Heinz opened a factory in Harlesden, London, to meet growing The indigenous peoples of the north east of America, the Iroquois, Narragansett and Penobscot British demand. Their main factory in Wigan tribes included beans in their diet. They cooked the opened in 1959 and now produces around 383,000 beans in earthenware pots, with various available tonnes of products per year, it is also the world's largest baked bean factory. meats, maple syrup and sometimes even bear

The Puritan Christian pilgrims, arriving on the east coast of America from Europe from the 17th century certainly learned the indigenous recipes – and baked beans became a convenience food.

As their religion forbade cooking on the sabbath, pilgrims cooked the beans as a Saturday supper, then kept them warm in a wood-fired oven and ate them for breakfast after church on Sundays.

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The UK remains their biggest single market, with around 1,500,000 cans of Heinz beans consumed every day. Their ‘Beans Means Heinz’ slogan was born in 1967 and is voted best advertising slogan of all time.

Baked Beans Ingredients 400g dried Haricot beans 460ml chicken stock 230ml water 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce 6 tbsp tomato ketchup 2 tbsp tomato puree 3 tbsp brown sugar 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp onion powder 1/2 tsp black pepper 1 tsp salt 4 tsp cornflour

1. Soak beans in a big bowl of water for 8 – 24 hrs, then drain.

2. Place beans in a large pot of water over high heat. Bring to a simmer, then skim off foam.

3. Reduce heat so it's simmering gently (medium or medium low). Partially cover with lid (leaving a crack for steam to escape), then cook for 1 – 1.5 hrs until just tender. (Start checking at 45 min). Beans should be still slightly firm on inside (they're cooked more in the sauce).

Drain.

4. Place all Baked Beans ingredients in a pot (except beans) and stir, then add beans.

5. Bring to a simmer, then lower heat to medium low and simmer for 20 minutes, without the lid. Stir every now and then so the beans don't catch on the bottom of the pot.

6. Mix the cornflour with a little water. Pour into pot while stirring, then cook for 2 minutes until sauce thickens – it will thicken quickly. Taste and add more salt if needed.

Tastes better next day!

Boston Baked Beans Ingredients 400g dried Haricot beans soaked overnight 250g uncooked bacon lardons 1 medium onion, diced 8 tbsp tomato ketchup 3 tablespoons treacle 50g brown sugar 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 2 teaspoons salt ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon dry mustard

1. Bring the pre-soaked beans to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until nearly tender, approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Drain and reserve the cooking liquid.

2. Preheat the oven to 165 degrees C. 3. Arrange 1/2 of the beans in the bottom of a 2-quart (2ltr) casserole dish. Place 1/2 of the bacon over the beans and sprinkle 1/2 of the onions over top. Repeat layers once more.

4. Combine ketchup, treacle, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dry mustard in a large saucepan over medium heat; bring to a boil.

5. Pour sauce over the beans. Pour in just enough reserved cooking liquid to cover the beans. Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 hours. Remove the lid and continue to cook, checking every 1/2 hour or so and adding more cooking liquid if necessary to prevent the beans from getting too dry, until beans are soft and tender, 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 more hours.

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Rotary Club of Pitlochry We had a very successful day at the Co-op last month where we had a collection table for ShelterBox. The total of the takings came to £350.

Our sincere thank you to everyone in our community who opened their hearts and purses! If anyone would like to donate (any amount - no matter how small!) to this very worthy cause, you can make contact with our Pitlochry Rotary Club: scretary@pitlochry.rotary1010.org or any of our Rotarians. Any and all small donations could add up to you helping to provide shelter and a temporary home for a another family in desperate need of shelter.

On the 10th October, Dougal Spaven received Rotary's prestigious PAUL HARRIS Recognition.

It is the highest form of recognition a Rotary Club can bestow on a member or individual who has made an outstanding contribution to their community.

The Paul Harris Fellow Program was established by Rotary International as far back as 1957.

Congratulations Dougal - well deserved!

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.

We are looking forward to welcoming Annetta Anderson, District Chair, to our 30th Birthday Meeting in November.

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 Station Bookshop With changing clocks and the hint of forthcoming festivities we have a number of announcements for this month.

Our hours are changing. From Monday 30th October until the end of March 2024, we will open at 9.30am and close at 4.00pm. We continue to open six days a week with Sunday closing.

While you are in the Bookshop, remember that we also sell our own Book Tokens. Each costs £5 and can be spent in smaller sums over multiple visits. Our tokens are popular as small gifts for the many readers who frequent our shop. They may even encourage someone to visit us for the first time.

Many visitors look on our shelves for railway books but so often they are disappointed. The books we receive fly off the shelves as soon as they appear. So, dear readers, if you have any railway books which you no longer require, please donate them to us. You will add to our income and delight our customers too.

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The Bookshop will be holding a special Christmas Book Fair in Fisher’s Hotel on Saturday 9th December from 10.00am until 4.00pm so that you have an extra opportunity to purchase gifts for reader friends, or just for yourself.

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/

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.

Blair Atholl Bowling Club The tea cups have been washed and dried; bowls polished and put away as another bowling season draws to an end. Saturday 30th September saw our traditional Treasurer’s Team v Secretary’s Team match close the green for another year. Played as a triples format, the Treasurer’s team claimed victory on the day but a great afternoon was had by all.

Some of the inter club finals just missed last month’s publication Men’s Seniors champion - Mick McWilliams.

Club Champion - Sam Davie Men’s Pairs - George Cameron & Jim McCallum Nomination Pairs - Sam Davie & Raymond Millar Handicap Competition - Sam Davie Floodlit Competition - Jim McCallum, Ian Page & Jim Haggart.

The season may be over but the club will be open on the first Friday of every month from 8pm for darts and dominoes. So if you fancy yourself as another Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor, come along for a game, a chat and a drink.

New members will be made most welcome and you don’t need to be an expert at the sport to have a great time. Come along next season and give it a try - you might just surprise yourself at how quickly you’re giving the bowls ‘more grass’ or getting a lucky ‘wickie ’ to win an end.

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Pitlochry Bowling Club We had our closing day at the end of September. Thanks to Neil Haggart our green keeper, our bowling green has looked lovely and played well throughout the season.

Some results of games played in the weeks before closing are as follows: Club Championship winners are men Neil Haggart and runner up John Anderson, Ladies, Val Wilson and runner up Ann Egglishaw. Walker cup winner Neil Haggart Buttercup winner Neil Haggart, 2022 cup winner Campbell, Club Rinks winners Val Wilson, Ian Wilson, Joe Osborne and Kevin Walsh. Congratulations to all the worthy winners.

Report on our prize giving evening will be in next months report as it’s too late for this one.

Once again Perth and Kinross council are sponsors of Warm Space venues. Look out for details on community notice boards.

Pitlochry Bowling Club are hosting a Warm Space every Monday 11am till 3pm. We will be serving teas coffee homemade soup and rolls. Starting from November 6th. We look forward to welcoming you.

Other events you may be interested in are our popular Bingo nights. The dates for November are Mondays 13th and 27th. 7pm for 7.30pm. The bar will also be open. Everyone is very welcome.

A quiz night is also organised for Saturday 11th November 7 for 7.30pm. £10 for a table of 4. Our last one was packed out so come along for a good night.

We are now playing short mat bowls in the club house if you are interested in having a go we will be happy to see you. All you need is flat soled shoes. We supply bowls and coaching.

If you would like details of any club activities watch our facebook page - Pitlochry Bowling Club. Or phone John on 07833664121 or Agnes on 07918122415.

Senior Badminton Atholl Leisure Centre, Mondays 2-4pm, £5 per 2 hour session.

For more information contact David on 01796 472781.

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 Continued on page 64

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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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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.

Vale of Atholl Pipe Band After the hectic summer, it was good to have a quieter October.

Our keen solo players did a couple of competitions in Brechin and Burntisland. At Brechin, Archie McNab got over all Runner Up for 18yrs and under piping, while his wee sister Flora came second in her tenor competition. Archie didn't compete at Burntisland, but instead piped for Flora in four tenor drumming competitions and she won them all!! Flora is now looking forward to the World Solo Drumming Championships in Glasgow on 21st October, so it'll all be over by the time you read this!!!

A couple of us played to welcome the visitors from Pitlochry's twin town, Confolens, into a meal at Fisher's Hotel. The Pipe Band have been to Confolens a few times so a lot of “catching up” was done with the group. They enjoyed a full programme while they were here, but unfortunately the Enchanted Forest visit was cancelled due to the weather!

November is back to hard practice and we also have a day out planned for the band to go ten pin bowling with a meal following. A nice thank you for all their hard work over the summer!!

We'll be playing at the Remembrance Day Service in Pitlochry on Sunday 12th November so hoping for a frost free morning!!!

If anyone would like to learn to play pipes or drums please contact me. All tuition is free.

Gillie McNab 07733152223 gmcnab00@aol.com

Edradour Pitlochry & Blair Atholl Pipe Band October was a quieter month with a short break then we played for Keepers of the Quaich at Blair Castle. Well done to Lennox Munro & Annabel Charton for being accepted into the senior band of the National Youth Pipe Band and for their outstanding results at the Burntisland Pipe Band Solo Competition, Annabel was overall senior piping champion and Lennox overall junior piping champion. Our drummers did well also, Ryan King won the MSR at the City of Brechin Solo Competition and Joe Charlton was placed 4th & 5th in his categories at Burntisland.

We are doing our usual Christmas Hamper Raffle so please contact any band or committee member for your tickets and chance to win one of these amazing hampers.

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

Dunkeld & Birnam Traditional Youth Music Group We’re back in full swing for winter term with November bringing us an exciting guest appearance at Dunkeld and District Strathspey and Reel Society’s family ceilidh, where some of our members will be performing the tunes we’ve been working on.

Watch this space for a winter concert featuring our budding young musicians…

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We’re grateful to have so much local support and give thanks to those who have donated instruments to our group, this helps us to continue providing free tuition and musical experiences to our growing classes and bands - if you have any unwanted fiddles or accordions hiding around your home, we’ll happily put them to good use.

Continued thanks go to our funders at SSE renewables, The National Lottery community fund, The Basil Death Trust, The Gordon Duncan Memorial Trust and our local community council.

The Enchanted Forest also treated us with a trip to their opening night experience, which we thoroughly enjoyed.

If you’d like to benefit from our free tuition or to join one of bands, get in touch. Dunkeld & Birnam Traditional Youth Music Group runs weekly during term–time at Birnam Arts and open to anyone aged P5 – S6.

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

Pitlochry Ladies Golf This year the ladies section went to Edzell in Angus for their Annual Outing. We were blessed with lovely weather and a great time was had by all. As the summer season draws to a close the Annual Meeting and Prize Giving will take place on Friday 3rd November gathering at 6pm for 6.30pm in the Red Deer. The business of the meeting will be followed by a meal. All members will be made very welcome, and we are hoping for a good turnout. The last game of the summer season was on Sunday 22nd October and the first game of the Winter League on Tuesday 25th October.

Breadalbane & District RDA Riding came to an end for 2023 with the start of the autumn half-term.

This year has seen the group take many strides forward with the new team of coaches making their impact. Also the contribution that our five new volunteers have made has been immense. They all very quickly picked up ‘the reins’ and have been a huge support to the riders and coaches alike.

We were blest with mostly good weather throughout the late summer term with the exception of one very wet Monday. What a blessing in disguise it turned out to be as the alternative plan for Horse Care and Grooming under cover was a great success with the riders. Everyone really enjoyed bonding face to face with their pony and a lot of TLC was given!! How rewarding it is to see the growth in confidence amongst our riders. They have all made huge progress since April and were rewarded with rosettes on the last day. Sad moments too as we said good-bye to one of our prize riders who has ‘outgrown’ us but a recognition of what has been achieved.

Our final event for this year is the AGM on Monday 13th November at 11.15 am in the Farragon Room of Aberfeldy Continued on page 68

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Parish Church. We welcome anyone to this and in particular any potential new volunteers.

Come and hear how rewarding it is to be able to facilitate our riders to achieve more than they ever dreamt of. Alternatively anyone interested can find out more on our web-site www. breadalbanerda.org.uk or contact us by email at breadalbanerda@gmail.com Or you can ring Helen on 01796 470414 or Vicky on 07786262329.

Blythswood Christmas Shoebox Appeal - Pitlochry It’s that time of year again when old empty shoe boxes are found, covered in Christmas paper and filled with items. These are then sent to mostly children living in impoverished situations in Easter European countries. The Baptist Church is cooperating with Pitlochry High School and the Atholl Centre to collect these boxes and items to fill them. They will then be sent off on Friday 3rd November from 2.30pm to 3.30pm when a lorry arrives outside the church to collect the boxes, so not long to go.

There are leaflets in the Atholl Centre which tells you what to do and there are posters with details in the Corrie in the Corner window and in the Hardware Centre. There is also a box in the Atholl Centre where you can leave items or filled boxes. They can also be handed into the School. Why not fill a box with a few friends, or as family or organisation. It can cost between £10 to £15 to fill a box. For more information contact – Iain for the Baptist Church 07397 884453, Helen at the Atholl Centre 01796 473044 or Mr Sherriffs at the School 01796 474666.

Thanks to all who helped out last year.

Blair Atholl & Struan Initiative The Friends of Blair Atholl Station “The railway was part of your life – a big part of it – I just loved it” These words, spoken by a Blair Atholl resident, were the inspiration for an oral history project which, we hope, will begin early next year, led by the Friends of Blair Atholl Station, on behalf of the Blair Atholl & Struan Initiative. The Friends of Blair Atholl Station has applied to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for funding for a project that is focused on listening to stories of the station. So, do you remember the station and the railway in its heyday – perhaps one of your parents or grandparents worked there? Or you travelled to school on the steam train?

Or you remember the ‘housewives’ choice’ train? If so, please get in touch and share your stories with us. Email Viv at friendsofbastation@gmail.com, or contact us through our Facebook page. And if you want to see some of our recent videos about the station, check out our Youtube channel @ FriendsofBlairAthollStation – you won’t be disappointed!

Blair Atholl & Struan Community Council During the last few months the village has welcomed some improvements and we can report excellent progress is being made.

The Lade is flowing with fresh amber water again which is wonderful as seeing this has been greatly missed by everyone.

This has meant the water mill has been revived with the wheel turning and fully functioning.

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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

This Month’s Easy Sudoku 4

5

8

6

9

6

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

7 3

2

5 3

1 6

4

3

2 8

7

6

2

8 7

8 2

5

2

6

3

9

4

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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The small footbridge to the west side of the river Tilt has been damaged for a while but Atholl Estates have confirmed that funding is now in place to make the repairs that is required for the footbridge. We don’t have a date as yet for when this will be completed but will keep you posted!

PKC confirmed that work would be commenced to makes repairs to the Bridge of Tilt on the 2nd October. The repairs were necessary due to some damage to the base of an abutment supporting the bridge. We are not sure of the extent of the repairs but it is great to know that progress was being made.

All extremely good news , we thank everyone who was involved to keep the village in working order.

Any questions about this or any other aspect of community council business, please email Miranda on blairathollstruancc@outlook.com or facebook Blair Atholl & Struan CC.

The Friends of Pitlochry Community Hospital The Friends of Pitlochry Community Hospital was set up in 1987 with the aim of providing support and assistance to patients and former patients of the hospital. This role has also expanded to help those within the local community where care needs may not be fully met by the healthcare system.

Our applications for assistance are individually assessed by the Trustees who retain the final decision on any grant.

Application forms maybe obtained from the secretary at fpch.secretary@gmail.com If you are interested in joining the committee with the FPCH or, may consider supporting their work in the community please contact fpch.secretary@gmail.com

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 There will be a short meeting in Tenandry Church at 2pm on Thursday 23rd November with a focus on reflection and prayer for the future of our church and other rural churches. All are very welcome.

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

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The Pitlochry Crossword 1

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By Lesley

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ACROSS

DOWN

7 Hollow soap? (6) 8 In retrospect, doctor trapped in actual cupboard (6) 9 Empty unappealing laundry - not bonnie (4) 10 Chic loo built beside end of flattish beauty spot (4,4) 11 Village made gel once (7) 13 Fries spinach without an explosion (5) 15 Mark first frost - you might need this (5) 17 Erupts riotously round last rebel stirrer (7) 20 Collector organising a clan get-together (8) 21 Stoned, like Ben Nevis (4) 22 Town fire alarm in café, on and off (6) 23 Part dragon, part llama’s seen at the theatre (6)

1 Loud commotion surrounding odd goat man (6) 2 Heard hill noise from animal (4) 3 Sea creature is alone unnaturally (3,4) 4 Perhaps watch isle (5) 5 Leaders of Argyll Rotary regularly organise camping holidays above roadside village (8) 6 One in service disrupted EU pact (6) 12 Dicky shot near water (5,3) 14 Argued excitedly about Pitlochry at first getting promotion (7) 16 Adjusts his car seats (6) 18 Pester girl returning to Speyside village (6) 19 Perhaps crochet Boaty McBoatface (5) 21 Graham endlessly lost in mist (4) Answers for October on page 81 Pitlochry Life 71

Join us from 10:50am on Remembrance Sunday (12th November) at the war memorial on Atholl Road as 'Pitlochry Remembers.' Our Worship Gathering will commence afterwards in our building at approximately 11:15am.

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 events: We are still hoping to have a couple of baptisms in the Ladies Dell, which is near the dam. All are welcome to come and witness these baptisms and join us afterwards for refreshments. Please keep an eye out on our website and social media for up-to-date details for date and time, once confirmed.

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 November 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 2 November 7.00pm Service for All Souls, remembering those we have loved and lost. nd

5 November No Service Joint service at All Saints at 10.30am for the Feast of All Saints th

26 November No Service Joint Service at St Andrews at 11.15am for the Feast Day of St Andrew th

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

Contact - Mrs. Lavinia Gordon 01796 481230.

Kilmaveonaig is open daily Sundays at 11.15am Holy Communion/Matins/ Communion by Extension 5th November No Service Joint service at All Saints at 10.30amfor the Feast of All Saints 26th November No Service Joint Service at St Andrews at 11.15am for the Feast Day of St Andrew St Andrew's, Church, Strathtay, opposite the local shop.

Contact - Ms. Lesley Whitwood 01887 840416.

Sundays at 11.15am Holy Communion/Matins/Service of the Word/Communion by Extension; 5 Sundays with Church of Scotland (see website) th

House Group 10.00am Last Wednesday of the month 72 Pitlochry Life

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5th November No Service Joint service at All Saints at 10.30am for the feast of All Saints 26th November Joint Service at St Andrews at 11.15am for the Feast Day of St Andrew All Saints, Kinloch Rannoch Square - Contact – Reverend Canon Liz Baker 01796 472005: First Sunday of the Month 9.30am Holy Communion 5th November Joint Service for he Feast of All Saints 10.30am 26th November Joint Service at St Andrews at 11.15am for the Feast Day of St Andrew Zoom Services Sundays -

6.00pm Evening Services (see Website)

Thursdays - 10.30am Morning Prayer

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.

CrossReach: Have you, or anyone you know, been feeling lonely lately and would like some company? CrossReach offer twice weekly day care (Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10.00 – 15.30) in The Tryst where you can take part in a varied activity programme, meet new friends and enjoy a homecooked three course lunch. To find out more, pop in, have a coffee and learn about our service and how to arrange a placement. For more information, please contact Lorna Smith, Service Manager on 07771 345244 or email lorna.smith@crossreach.org.uk 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.

Scottish Country Dance Group: Tuesdays at 7.30pm, all welcome.

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

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

Blythswood Christmas Shoe Box Appeal: Filled boxes or individual items must be handed in to The Atholl Centre or Pitlochry High School before Friday 3 November.

Christmas Tree Festival: An advance notice that our popular Christmas Tree Festival will be help on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 December. If you would like to provide a decorated tree, have a craft stall or need further information, please contact The Tryst office.

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.

Continued on page 76

74 Pitlochry Life

Pitlochry Life 75

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 service in Blair Atholl Church at 11.15am.

Coffee Corner is back in Blair Atholl Church Hall every Thursday at 10.00am – 12.00. All welcome.

Remembrance Sunday 12th November - Please see local notices for services at the War Memorials. Church services at the usual times.

Services in Rannoch are held weekly, at 9.45am at Braes of Rannoch and 11.30am at the Old Church, Kinloch Rannoch.

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.

Jehovah’s Witnesses In the book of Acts we discover how Jesus set up his congregation and what its priorities were. We will be studying this record over the coming months. 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 2nd November, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: Job 11, 12, ‘Three Ways to Gain Wisdom and Benefit From It’, ‘Parents—Help Your Children to Gain Godly Wisdom’, ‘A Far-Reaching Commission (Matthew 28:18–20)’.

Sunday 5th November, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘Do You Have the Evangelising Spirit?’. A discussion: ‘Carry What You Must and Throw Off the Rest (Hebrews 12:1)’.

Thursday 9th November, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: Job 13, 14, “If a Man Dies, Can He Live Again?”, “Set Something Aside”.

Sunday 12th November, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘Are You Conscious of Your Spiritual Need?’. A discussion: ‘Rely on Jehovah, as Samson Did (Judges 16:28)’.

Continued on page 78

76 Pitlochry Life

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Thursday 16th November, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: Job 15–17, ‘Eliphaz Demonstrates How Not to Give Comfort’, Acts 1:1–5.

Sunday 19th November, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘Make Jehovah Your Stronghold’. A discussion: ‘Young Ones—How Will Your Life Turn Out? (Proverbs 2:11)’.

Thursday 23rd November, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: Job 18, 19, ‘Never Abandon Your Fellow Worshippers’, Acts 1:6–12.

Sunday 26th November, 10.30 a.m. A talk: ‘What God’s Kingdom Is Doing for Us Now’. A discussion: ‘Let Mildness Be Your Strength (2 Timothy 2:24)’.

Thursday 30th November, 7.00 p.m. Short talks, videos and discussions including: Job 20, 21, ‘Righteousness Is Not Defined by Wealth’, ‘Does God Want You to Be Rich?’, ‘Be “Content With the Present Things” (Hebrews 13:5)’ Acts 1:13–24.

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 Places of Worship A beautiful funeral at the church in Weem recently brought people from far and wide, of all faiths and no faith, to give thanks for a life well-lived. There was a great sense of harmony and gratitude, love and support. Compare this to a funeral in Bavaria, in February, where the mourners had to stand outside the church as they and the deceased were not all of the faith of that Church!

Baha’u’llah’s teaching for this age is that all the people of this planet are of one race, the human race, and that all religions are one, under one God. A Bahà’i House of Worship is designed to reflect these truths and those of every faith are welcome. There is no clergy or rituals or sermons. There are simple devotional programmes including reciting, singing or chanting of the Word of God from Bahà’i sacred scriptures and those of other world religions.

Each House of Worship has its own distinctive architecture influenced by the local landscape and culture. Each also reflects Bahà’i belief: a circular design with nine entrances, representing the major world religions, welcomes people from all directions; a single dome shelters all under the embrace of one God; and lovely gardens reflect unity in diversity. In the fullness of time, each House of Worship will be surrounded by other structures dedicated to serving the needs of the community: hospitals, universities, and other humanitarian and social service agencies.

As yet there are few national Houses of Worship. Is there one in Perthshire? No, although there is a national centre in Edinburgh and in London. Most meetings take place in homes and local neighbourhood centres. Visitors who would like to discover for themselves the spirit of a Baha’i meeting are welcome to join in or there are opportunities to discuss ideas over a coffee! Groups for children and youth are available in the Aberfeldy area. In Comrie and Crieff you can meet for coffee!

You can contact Rachel on 07707 994812 or Hilarie on 07967 601423. For more information use www.bahai.org Picture: Baha’i House of Worship in Delhi, in the form of a lotus.

78 Pitlochry Life

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Pitlochry Pitlochry Life Life 79 79

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

Whilst every care is taken in preparing this magazine to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot be held responsible for loss, damage or omission caused by an error in an advert. Artwork is accepted on the condition that it is legal and copyright free and that the advert is fair and accurate. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers or the views expressed by contributors, nor do the publishers necessarily share such views. We reserve the right to refuse articles and advertisements.

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

80 Pitlochry Life

Cycle with me! Pitlochry to Killiecrankie via Loch Faskally there and back!

Great for: Low level, flat cycling and beautiful scenery.

Benefits: Conveniently starts at a central car park. Forest routes combined with riverside cycling. Use as a one-way or ‘there and back’ route. Cycle as little or as much of the route as you please before turning back!

Length: Approx. 8 miles.

Start at the Atholl Road Car Park in Pitlochry and turn left onto the main street in the town. On the outskirts of Pitlochry, take a left at the sign to the Faskally Boating Station. At the boating station at the bottom of the hill take the track that brings you alongside Loch Faskally. When you come to a track turning right, away from the Loch, look for the signs to the caravan park. You may have to dismount here to navigate the small steps. Do not follow the track alongside the river at this point as there are steep banks and the ride will get very technical. Keep following the signs for the caravan park and this will take you to a tarmac road. Turn left here and continue until you meet another road where you will make another left and continue cycling along the footpath.

Go straight across at the junction to Tummel Bridge. Look out for the left hand turn onto a tarmac road and continue downhill on this tarmac until a right hand turn up river takes you to the Killiecrankie Visitor Centre.

You will pass the ‘Soldier’s Leap’ on this path which is a breath-taking view well worth dismounting for! You may want to stay off your bike at this point to continue up the steps to the Visitor Centre. Return to Pitlochry reversing the above route.

Sally

Answers to the October Crossword THE VERY BEST OF PERTHSHIRE UNDER ONE ROOF...

- Restaurant & Takeaway - Fuel Station & EV Charging Points - Clothes & Accessories Shopping - Gift Shop & Gift Hampers - Garden & Homewares Shops - Whisky, Gin, Beer & Wine Cellar - Deli & Food Larder - Highland Cows to visit & Nature Walk Opening Summer 2023 - New Open-air Garden Restaurant

Across

7 MUCKLE 8 ARABLE 9 JURA 10 TICK BITE 11 STATION 13 TRYST 15 SCENE 17 RECYCLE 20 GLENSHEE 21 CASK 22 CAIRNS 23 EARWIG

Down

1 AUGUST 2 SKUA 3 PEAT BOG 4 DANCE 5 TAYBERRY 6 SLATES 12 TENANDRY 14 LEVERET 16 CELLAR 18 LASSIE 19 WHIST 21 CORN

Open daily from 8am to 8pm, just off the A9 at Bankfoot, PH1 4EB. Call 01738 787 696 or book a table online at www.tasteperthshire.co.uk Pitlochry Life 81

HOROSCOPES

BY CHRISTINE CHALKLIN

For November 2023 November pushes the emotional and passionate sign of Scorpio into the spotlight; this powerful energy is exaggerated by the communication planet Mercury, remaining in Scorpio until the 10th. This month presents a cosmic opportunity to review anything in your life that has outlived its purpose and needs to be let go. Dynamic Mars, very powerful in its own sign of Scorpio until the 24th, also indicates a time of great potential for developing your inner warrior and your ability to fight for change and transformation. Scorpio is shining a light on our hidden truths, particularly around the intense new moon on the 13th. This lunar cycle brings up a strong urge to explore any unconscious habits, patterns, fears and traumas that we might have, and have the courage to see what needs to be changed. Venus, the planet of love and romance, finishes her journey through practical Virgo and arrives in her own sign of Libra on 8th. This placement wants balance, harmony and beauty, particularly in all forms of relationship, chances are that some romantic attachments will be looked at in a new light. The moon is full in the curious sign of Gemini on the 27th, offering a chance to get a clear idea about how you think about the direction of your life and what you want to bring to fruition in the coming months.

ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20 Resources and finances are in the spotlight during November as the Scorpio Sun, Mercury and Mars encourage an all-important review. Scorpio Mars demands action and offers you the courage and determination to make some important changes. After the 8th Venus, the planet of love and romance, enters your opposite sign indicating the need for peaceful and harmonious relationships.

TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 21 The powerful and transformational Scorpio Sun, communicative Mercury and dynamic Mars all shine a strong and guiding light on your relationships and partnerships during November. This is the perfect time to make some dramatic changes as your self-esteem is at an all-time high, enabling you to communicate your values and your worth to your nearest and dearest.

GEMINI MAY 22 - JUNE 21 The work and wellbeing angle of your chart is strongly emphasised during November as daily routines and general health become your top priorities. Mercury, your ruler, remains in determined Scorpio until the 10th, suggesting that you can now be unwavering in your decisions. The Gemini full moon on the 27th brings up challenges, change and new beginnings.

CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22 November suggests that love and romance are in the spotlight as the Sun, communicative Mercury and dynamic Mars fire up this sector of your chart. The Scorpio new moon on the 13th brings up a hidden truth. Whatever happens on the relationship front, it’s going to be a passionate and intense month and the way forward becomes much clearer if you tune into your intuition.

LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 23 Your home and family are high on the agenda during November as the Sun, Mercury and Mars shine brightly in your domestic sector. Powerful Mars ensures that things go your way, as long as you use your intuition when dealing with any difficult issues.

Venus arrives in balanced Libra on the 8th, offering the opportunity to review an ongoing relationship in a more favourable light.

VIRGO AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 22 November starts with a dynamic line up of planets in your thinking and communication area, determined Mars in Scorpio gives you the extra courage to express ideas and opinions that you are normally reluctant to voice. Venus, in balanced Libra after the 8th, offers a helping hand and a more positive outlook. Your mind is sharply focussed, particularly around the Taurus full moon on the 27th.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 23 November’s intense line up of planets in your financial area give you the go ahead to start a review.

Careful planning is now needed and as Venus arrives in your sign after the 8th you should begin to see a positive way ahead. The Scorpio new moon on the 13th also offers the opportunity for new ideas and new beginnings. Successful interaction is the main theme to keep you occupied.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22 November is your birthday month and it offers the start of a new cycle of transformation and personal growth. Dynamic Mars stays in your sign until the 24th, ensuring the perfect opportunity to be more assertive as you step up into a more important role. The new moon in your sign on the 13th suggests the start of something new and also gives you the courage to go for any new opportunities that come your way.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21 November looks like shaping up to be an introspective month, The Scorpio Sun, Mercury and Mars collectively urge you to review your future plans by checking in to see if you really are following your heart’s desire. Some important work related issues come to the surface and you may need to renegotiate how you are valued. Your intuition will guide you and take you where you need to go.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20 The Sun, Mercury and dynamic Mars are all extremely powerful and intense in Scorpio during November.

This energy stirs up anything to do with friendships and your group endeavours. Community spirit and humanitarian goals look set to be high on your agenda as you develop new associations and friendships.

Romance is also favoured as love planet Venus arrives at the highpoint of your chart on the 8th.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 18 November indicates a busy time ahead as you feel the need to look carefully at your aims and objectives.

The intense and powerful Scorpio energy urges you to do some deep soul-searching and connect with your more mystical side. You'll find that you are accessing your intuition now more than ever, particularly around the time of the powerful and magical Scorpio new moon on the 13th.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20 November indicates higher learning, study and spiritual growth as the intense Scorpio Sun, Mercury and enthusiastic Mars urge you to open your mind and explore subjects that have been at the back of your mind for a while. You’ll also need to stay wide awake and attentive to any new prospects that come your way, particularly around the new moon on the 13th.

Christine is a professional astrologer offering private consultations in astrology, life coaching and Bach flower essences.

NAVIGATE YOUR WAY THROUGH these challenging times, discover your unique birth map and take a refreshing new look at all aspects of your life. Reach your fullest potential by booking an astrological reading now! Consultations are available on Zoom, WhatsApp or by telephone.

Christine Chalklin Inspirational Astrologer and Life Coach Email: christine_chalklin@hotmail.com Website: www.yourguidinglight.org

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

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

-

84 Pitlochry Life

© Pitlochry Life 2019

Pitlochry Life 85

Starting New Business

Accommodation Dunkeld House Hotel

25

Pitlochry Hydro Hotel

15

The Atholl Palace Hotel

10,44

The Green Park Hotel

7

The Old Mill Inn

2,88

Attractions

54

Churches Blair Atholl & Struan

76

Jehovah's Witnesses

76

Pitlochry Baptist Church

70

Pitlochry Church of Scotland

74

Scottish Episcopal Church

72

Balinluig Bazaar

16,31

St Bride's Catholic Church

76

Big Country

31

Tenandry Kirk

70

Blair Athol Distillery

9

The Baha'i Faith

78

Blair Castle

11

Killiecrankie Visitor Centre

6

Pitlochry Festival Theatre

3

The Atholl Palace Hotel

10,44

Community

2

Atholl Centre

46

Ballinluig Bazaar

The Old Mill Inn

60

Neighbourhood Watch

34

Pitlochry Bowling Club

62

Pitlochry Choral Society

20,33

Pitlochry Confolens Twinning

46

Pitlochry Flower Club

18

Pitlochry Garden Share

16

Pitlochry In Bloom

52

Pitlochry Ladies Golf

66 60 16

Pitlochry Moulin Heritage

62

Pitlochry Moulin History Soc

24

Pitlochry's Open Kitchen

24

Pitlochry Repair Cafe

12 58

Blair Atholl Bowling Club

16,31 Pitlochry Rotary Club 60 Pitlochry Station Bookshop

Blair Atholl Struan CC

68

Pitlochry Town & Country Club

18

Blair Atholl Struan Initiative

68

Rannoch History Society

16

Blythwood Shoebox

68

Scottish Country Dancing

14

Breadalbane & District RDA

66

Tryst Walking Group

14

Breadalbane Heritage Soc

20

u3a

18

Christmas Card Delivery

52

Vale of Atholl Pipe Band

64

Climate Cafe

14

Warm Rooms

48

Community Bonfire

50

Dunkeld Birnam Youth Music

12,13 Winter Resilience 12 Crossword/Sudoko 64

Dunkeld Strathspey Reel Soc

50

Crossword

71

Edradour Pipe Band

64

Sudoko

49,69

Friends Pitlochry Com Hosp

70

Hearing Aid Clinic

14

Heartland Film Society

22

Inner Wheel Club

58

Just Singin'

50

KFT CC

20

Features

43

Killiecrankie Village Hall

12

Cycle With Me

81

77

Macmillan Cancer Support

22

Fitness

32

75

Brodies Timber

43

Chris Smillie Joinery

23

Done Maintenance

23

Duncan McLean

38

Home Service Company

23

Iarann Forge Blacksmith

69

J W Lang Painter

51

J W Lang Tiler

73

McKenzie Strickland Architect

63

Morrison Joinery

51

NKS Window Cleaner

59

Pankhurst Decorators

39

RW Bell Green Energy

53

Sean Mclauchlan Electrical

51

Stevie G Roofing

51

Suthers Stonemason

73

Business Services

86 Pitlochry Life

Mid Atholl Indoor Bowling

Pitlochry Library

BMAS

Pitlochry.org

20

Pitlochry Litter Action

Building Services

Discover Scotland

Mid Atholl SWI

Computer Services Computer Services

Dunkeld Birnam Art Fair

69

58

Dentist Anderson Dentistry

37

iBlu Dental Care

65

Portman Dental Care

42

Horoscopes

82

Elaine Burns Podiatry

61

Malcolm Appleby

Pitlochry Garden

36

GRM Podiatry

61

Solicitors & Estate Agents

Pitlochry Tipple

8

Hair With Hazel

61

J&H Mitchell

40

Recipe

56

Hearing & Mobility

42

Macnabs

47

Top Toys

28

Heartland Hearing

49

Willie's Wonky Computer

26

Lesley McLean Footcare

61

Pitlochry Osteopathic Clinic

47

The Atholl Palace Hotel

44

Financial Malleny Mortgage Solutions

63

J&H Mitchell

40

Parc Royale

31

Atholl Palace Gin

10

Blair Athol Distillery

9

Dunkeld House Hotel

25

Live Music

Fern Cottage

11

The Atholl Palace Hotel

44

Karelia House

37

The Old Mill Inn

88

Killiecrankie Visitor Centre

6

Macdonald Bros Butchers

21

Pitlochry Festival Theatre

3

Pitlochry Hydro Hotel

15

Taste Perthshire

81

The Atholl Palace Hotel

10,44

Pest Control

The Green Park Hotel

7

Andy Law

The Old Mill Inn

2,88

The Tulach

6

Removals

Victoria's

17

Howes Removals

MPs & Councillors John Swinney MSP

34,67

Murdo Fraser MSP

30,67

Pete Wishart MP

24,67

59

47

Repairs

Funeral Directors Gaulds

55

Strowan Cemetery

55

W&K Gerrie

73

Garden Services Chris Mitchell

39

Duncan McLean

38

Reid Tree Garden Services

38

Tree Maintenance Services

39

Perthshire Guitar Services

59

Schools Morrison's Academy

35

Shopping Ballinluig Bazaar

16,31

Blair Athol Distillery

9

Hearing & Mobility

42

House of Bruar

1

Health & Beauty

Karelia House

37

BMAS

Macdonald Bros Butchers

21

75

Taxi & Transport Highland Travel Taxi

67

Stagecoach

19

Vacancies

Homes For Sale

Food and Drink

17

27

Taymouth Castle

I N D E X

Pitlochry Life 87