Walks and beginner workshops held regularly at venues throughout Highland Perthshire
For more information, please get in touch.
Call/Text: 07828 086062
Email: nwhighlandperthshire@gmail.com
Or visit: www.nordicwalkinghighlandperthshire.com
Instagram: nw_highland_perthshire
Facebook: nordicwalkinghighlandperthshire
MUSIC NIGHT
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Pitlochry & District u3a - The u3a primarily brings together people who have finished working full time or raising their family to develop interests and wish to continue learning in an informal and supportive environment. The focus is on sharing and learning from each other.
We meet monthly in the Tryst, Pitlochry for our whole group meetings which include a talk/presentation followed by chat with tea and coffee. In addition to these we also offer special interest groups. These informal groups are led by members.
The emphasis is on learning from each other and having fun while doing so. Our groups include Book Groups, Scottish History, Craft, Mahjong, Theatre and Garden visits.
The next u3a whole group meeting will be on Wednesday, 15 April at 2 pm in the Tryst. Local physiotherapist and Pilates instructor, Liz Robertson, will be our speaker on Health & Well Being. For further information please visit our website www.pitlochry.u3asite.uk or contact our chair on smcairnx@hotmail.com with any queries.
The McLean Hall, Fearnan - The recently re-decorated hall has served the local community since 1955 and recently a celebration was held to mark the 70th anniversary of the Hall.
It is a great village amenity and is used by a variety of groups. Regularly a range of activities are held in the Hall such as yoga, tai-chi and carpet bowls as well as many village events. It is also available to book for your events, parties, celebrations, activities and meetings etc. There is a well-equipped kitchen, tables and chairs, a curtained stage area, disabled access and good parking. A range of equipment can be used when hiring the hall - table tennis, pickleball, magnetic dartboard and quoits. If you’d like to book the hall or make an enquiry, email mcleanhallfearnan@gmail. com. The McLean Hall Fearnan, Perthshire PH15 2PF. (Scottish Charity No. SC023673) www.thequair.scot
The Atholl & Breadalbane Quair
April arrives with a gentler quality than the months that precede it. The light strengthens, the days lengthen, and the land around us begins to stir again after winter’s pause. It is a month that reminds us that change does not need to be forced. It comes in its own time, quietly and with purpose.
Within these pages you will find a wide range of activities, notices and dates for the weeks ahead. Taking a moment to read through and mark what matters to you can make the difference between feeling hurried by time and moving with it more easily.
April has a habit of passing quickly if we are not paying attention, helped along by the fact that it only has thirty days to make its point!
In this part of Perthshire, the signs of renewal are often subtle. Buds appear almost unnoticed, fields shift colour, and familiar walks feel different from one week to the next. It is a good moment to step outside again, not only to take part in local events, but simply to observe what is changing around us and within us.
As ever, we advise checking details with organisers before attending events, as plans can alter. A little care and awareness help things run more smoothly for everyone. April also brings key moments in the calendar. Schools pause for the spring break from Friday, 3 April to Friday, 17 April, and Easter falls early this year on Sunday, 5 April.
As the month progresses, attention also begins to turn towards exams. These are times that call for both effort and reflection, and we extend our good wishes to pupils and students preparing for what lies ahead.
Wherever April finds you, may it offer a sense of balance, renewal and connection, and may this issue of The Quair support you in staying informed and engaged with your community.
Alistair and Linda
The Atholl & Breadalbane Quair is an open-access monthly magazine and is delivered at the beginning of each month, to every one of the 7,350 residential and business addresses in Highland Perthshire - PH8, PH9, PH15, PH16, PH17 and PH18 postcode areas.
Copies for visitors are also made available each month from our dispensers in Pitlochry, Killin, Aberfeldy and Kenmore. The extra print run is dependent on the normal fluctuating seasonal demand from visitors and tourists. As well as being a Community Magazine, The Quair is an excellent source of information for our visitors. We also produce The Crieff and Comrie Quair. Each month, between the two magazines, we print an average of 15,000 and deliver more than 13,500 copies directly to homes and businesses throughout Highland Perthshire and Strathearn.
Local voluntary groups and organisations may submit articles, free of charge. All contributions are carried subject to space being available. We ask that any article reaches us by email by the specified copy date, is factual, non-political, under 400 words, and not likely to offend.
The copy date for the May 2026 edition is noon on Wednesday, 8 April The magazines are due to be distributed the week commencing Monday, 27 April
Table Tennis Tryst Pitlochry - Looking to do something different? Whether you can play or not come and join us and have a go. Every Thursday 2 pm - 4 pm, your first time is free. Equipment is provided. Further details contact Irene 07546 479249.
West Stormont Woodland Group
West Stormont was the name used in medieval times to cover the parishes of Auchtergaven, Kinclaven, Logiealmond, Moneydie, Redgorton (Stanley) and the Murthly portion of Little Dunkeld. West Stormont has been chosen as the most suitably inclusive title for the many communities connected to Taymount and Five Mile Woods today. Working with local people to bring Taymount Wood and Five Mile Wood into Community Ownership
What has WSWG been doing? *Behind the scenes, the board continues working through our ideas for the proposed Management Agreement on Taymount Wood and Five Mile Wood with FLS, which we will update and involve you in along the way. *We had very positive feedback from Perth & District Ramblers from their ramble round the Stanley Three Woods Nature Walk from Five Mile Wood to Stanley on January 10, with Mike Thewlis joining them in Taymount Wood for WSWG. Many thanks to Ian Stokes for picking up on Mike’s work establishing this route. *For all walkers and would-be walkers, find useful advice from Walking Scotland (formerly Paths for All) www.walkingscotland.org.uk/ resource/10-simple-tips-to-walk-more-every-day *On January 22, WSWG attended an online training event organised by Third Sector Interface (TSI Perth) on Trustee Roles and Responsibilities, which was very informative. *We have been participating in the early stages of the Stanley Development Trust Common Ground Garden project to make use of the old tennis courts site until further progress can be made on the Stanley Community Hub project. The first task has been to clear part of the natural regeneration ahead of the bird nesting season to create space for the garden area to be developed over the coming months, saving lots of poles for use on site. *On February 27, WSWG was very fortunate to attend the excellent Local People Leading event at the Scottish Parliament. With over 250 participants from
wide-ranging community organisations and public sector stakeholders across Scotland, WSWG was there as part of the Community Woodlands Association delegation. Organised by Scottish Community Alliance and hosted by Presiding Officer, Alison Johnstone, the event comprised fascinating and inspiring presentations showcasing the breadth of community action across Scotland, a diverse choice of workshops on shaping change and a cross-party panel of MSPs reflecting on key insights and discussions from the day, followed by a Q&A session. WSWG attended the workshop entitled Plan or Be Planned: A Manifesto for a People and Nature-centred Planning System. This workshop showed how to put communities in the lead and nature at the heart of decision-making, exploring a bold strategy for a planning system that truly serves people and planet. How vital that is given the multiple, massive challenges of our time. *On February 11, the PKC Planning and Placemaking Committee voted unanimously to approve the proposal for an intensive poultry rearing unit at Newbigging Farm adjacent to Taymount Wood, despite substantial local objection, including from WSWG. Our community woodland is seen as an effective screening framework for the development and a useful buffer for any pollution risk to King’s Myre Loch SSSI from the production unit. *WSWG enjoyed the well-attended Community Ownership Forum meeting organised by PKC on March 4 at which the topic was Community Wealth Building with a presentation from the Scottish Community Alliance. Words of the Month - Coilltean Caillte: (Forgotten Woodlands) is a partnership project between NatureScot, Forestry and Land Scotland and Gaelic Placenames of Scotland. It is also funded by Future Woodland Scotland and the Forest, Peat and Rural Land Management Programme at the University of Edinburgh. What’s coming up next? *Tuesday, 7 April: More woodland fun with Wee Adventures in Taymount Wood - details out soon. Follow us! West Stormont Woodland Group Email us: contact@weststormontwoodlandgroup.scot
Weightlifting - Pitlochry Weightlifting Club’s Alex Phillips won his 48th Scottish title at the Scottish Masters Cup, in Tillicoultry on Saturday, 7 March.
Competing in the 71 kg (60 to 64 years) class Alex snatched 45 kg, setting a new Scottish record, and he Clean & Jerked 55 kg for a 100 kg total. This total has qualified him for the Scottish Masters in November. Pitlochry Path Group - In January all our work parties were cancelled due to adverse weather conditions and some paths suffered water damage.
February was a busier month. In Black Spout Woods, over two visits, we repaired a damaged path, cleared drains and tidied up the Car Park. Drains were also cleared on a path in West Moulin Park and several volunteers completed our annual Core Path Audits - to determine if any paths need improvement. Clearly this is only a snapshot of path conditions so if you come across an issue, that we could perhaps resolve, please get in touch. In March the riverside path from Aldour Bridge to the 100 Steps was tidied up and we held our AGM, at the Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre. Last year’s work was reviewed, and plans made for the year ahead. Recent donations from the Enchanted Forest and the Faskally Christian Trust were acknowledged - they will help support our 2026 projects.
If you would like to join us working on the paths, with friendly company, coffee and biscuits, please contact Graham Simpson (simpson571@btinternet.com or 07885 502639).
Highland Perthshire’s Go to Landscaping Company
VisionPK: 160 Years of Making a Difference Help us Continue our Work
This year, VisionPK proudly celebrates 160 years of supporting people in Perth & Kinross. Since 1866, we have been helping individuals with sight loss live full, independent lives, providing practical support, advice, specialist equipment, and services that make a real difference every day. In 2016, we expanded our work to include hearing loss support.
Over the decades, our work has only been possible thanks to the dedication of staff, volunteers, and supporters in the community. But as we look to the future, we face an urgent challenge: to keep VisionPK running and continue supporting those who rely on us. We need your help. Every donation, no matter the size, goes directly into funding our services. From daily living support to specialist equipment, advice, and community activities, your gift ensures people living with sight and hearing loss can continue to access the care they need. We cannot take our 160-year legacy for granted. Please consider giving today so VisionPK can continue its vital work for the next 160 years and beyond.
Breadalbane Community Larder
Social Supermarket - Most items 4 for £1, available Saturday mornings 11 am to 12.30 pm at Offizone, Kenmore Street, Aberfeldy. Emergency deliveries - Emergency deliveries of food parcels please call 0345 301 1100 Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pm.
FoodShare - Available 24/7 from the shelter in the rear car park of Aberfeldy Parish Church. We can rejoice that spring is finally here and we can enjoy some lovely sunshine to lift our spirits as well as the Good News of Easter which is just around the corner. As always, we thank the whole community of Aberfeldy and surrounding areas for their most generous help and faithful giving and we hope that you will be happy to continue to support this local community initiative. We could not serve those who need our support without you.
We would also like to thank all the volunteers who give of their time to keep the Social Supermarket and FoodShare running smoothly as well as those who deliver emergency support to households in crisis. Their support is invaluable.
If you are able to donate to the trolley in Aberfeldy Co-op (near the exit) please consider purchasing some of the following items which are always in demand: long-life milk, tea bags, coffee, tinned fruit, tinned meat, tinned fish, pasta sauces, jam/marmalade, puddings particularly rice pudding and custard, for example, and regular size chocolate bars are all most welcome. We would especially be grateful for donations of tinned meat, long-life milk, fruit juice and biscuits at this time.
Shower gel, shampoo, conditioner and toothpaste are very helpful too. We have been able to stock up the shelves in the Social Supermarket thanks to the community’s generosity. Your continued support is therefore still very much appreciated.
To celebrate this incredible milestone, we invite you to join us at our celebration event on Tuesday 21st April, 12-2pm at our Sensory Hub, 17-19 George Street, Perth. Come and share in our anniversary, meet staff and volunteers, and celebrate the difference VisionPK has made and will continue to make in our community.
Contact us to book your place at the event or make a donation. You can also scan the QR code below. Thank you for your continued support.
It has been wonderful to benefit from the Fair Feast initiative providing venison products to local foodbanks and community larders. This social enterprise is reducing the impact on the environment of over-population of deer and supporting local food projects with the meat this produces. Our customers are enjoying reasonably priced sausages, burgers, stews and mince and producing healthy meals. If you would like to make a financial donation to the Community Larder, please email breadalbanecommunitylarder@btinternet.com for details.
Breadalbane Community Larder is a joint initiative of several local churches and also involves members of the wider community.
Pitlochry & Blair Atholl Pipe Band
- Over the winter practices have been busy and we also recently held our AGM. We have Keepers of the Quaich at Blair Castle coming up and several weekend workshops before our first competition of the season, The British Pipe Band Championships at Ingliston on Saturday, 30 May.
You can follow us on Facebook or if you would like more information on the band, please contact Pipe Major Christy Kelly 01796 472692 or Secretary Claire Scott 01796 481456.
Larder
Breadalbane
Perthshire Pet Cremation
Local family business based on our family farm serving Perthshire and beyond Providing professional individual cremation services for all your cherished pets t
Warm Connections
- If you have met us or read our articles over the years you will know that we often encourage folk to do the small, inexpensive or free things to make your home more energy efficient. Our experience is that whenever someone does this, they can’t believe the difference it makes…draughts, rugs, secondary double glazing, thick curtains etc.
Not everyone has the ability or time to crawl around skirting boards with a silicone gun or drill holes in order to fit a draught strip, so we are excited to say that we can now provide materials and a local handyman for a couple of hours or so; we know it will make a difference! Please get in touch and we can come round to see what measures are needed and what we can do for you.
If you would like help with the big steps or the little ones, Anna and Tom at Warm Connections would be delighted to chat. Remember, our advice is completely free and there is no catch. 07759 404980, www.warmconnections.net, advice@warmconnections.net
Aberfeldy Gaelic Choir - The choir continues to meet weekly in preparation for a promising year of events. As the days become longer, at last a promise of spring and summer remind us that time passes all too quickly and the first performances in June will soon be upon us. New songs are being practiced and will eventually be perfected, always in a fun-filled evening.
The Oban Mod on Saturday, 6 June will be the first airing of the new repertoire, when the choir will travel to Oban to compete with choirs from different parts of Scotland. This is always an enjoyable day out and a good opportunity for the choir to brush up for the Aberfeldy Mod the following weekend. The Aberfeldy Mod is a two-day event, Friday, 12 June being the children’s Mod and the Saturday for adult performances in the morning, with choir competitions in the afternoon. At the end of the afternoon competitions, the massed choir singing in the square is popular with locals and visitors and marks the finish of a great two day event. The choir will be singing at other events throughout the year, but as always, the National Mod in October will remain the highlight of the year. This year Glasgow is the host venue and it will no doubt be a great event with a large influx of singers from all over Scotland. Choir meetings take place every Wednesday in the Lesser Town Hall at 7.30 pm. Anyone wishing to come along for an evening just to try it out will be given a warm welcome. A knowledge of Gaelic and the reading of music are not a necessity as help is given by the Musical Director and Gaelic Tutor. For further information, contact John Duff: 01887 820217
• We are separate from the RSPCA who cover England and Wales only.
• We receive no government funding.
Please help us care for Scotland’s animals
Dalguise Meditation Group - Do you have to be already fit to join a gym? Of course not. And you don’t have to be already calm, focussed and full of loving-kindness to begin to meditate. Quite the reverse, in fact, because those are some of the qualities that a meditation practice can help you to develop.
Whether you are completely new to meditation, or have an established practice, you are welcome to come to our meetings. These take place on the first and third Tuesdays of every month, from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm in Dalguise Village Hall. So this month meetings are on Tuesday, 7 April and Tuesday, 21 April. We enjoy sitting and walking meditations, discussions and refreshments. There are no charges, no formalities, and no religious affiliations - what we do is decided among our members. But always the intention is to develop awareness, clarity and concern for others.
If you aren’t able to attend in person, you might nevertheless be interested in going on our mailing list. Members receive thought-provoking and helpful compilations about meditation and mindful living, in the weeks between live meetings. If you would like to know more about our meetings or about meditation in general, please do contact faithanstey@gmail.com.
Croftin Mhor
HIGHLAND PERTHSHIRE HOLIDAY HOMES
Self‐Catering Luxury Holiday Homes Located in the Perthshire Highlands
HIGHLAND PERTHSHIRE HOLIDAY HOMES
HIGHLAND PERTHSHIRE HOLIDAY HOMES
A handpicked portfolio of beautiful 4 and 5 star self‐catering properties in and around the Aberfeldy and Kenmore areas www.highlandperthshire‐holidayhomes.com
Self‐Catering Luxury Holiday Homes Located in the Perthshire Highlands icked portfolio of beautiful 4 and 5 star self‐catering properties in and around the Aberfeldy and Kenmore areas www.highlandperthshire‐holidayhomes.com Holiday Letting Management Services
Full management service for owners
Optional advice and/or set‐up service to achieve maximum potential
Full management service for owners
Aberfeldy based, established 11 years
Full services include: marketing, booking administration, guest liaison, changeovers and day to day caretaking.
Penfold Property & Lifestyle Management
We assist second home owners in the area, from pre‐purchase advice to ongoing property management.
Penfold Property & Lifestyle Management
Optional advice and/or set‐up service to achieve maximum potential
Optional advice and/or set‐up service to achieve maximum potential
Aberfeldy based, established 11 years
Aberfeldy based, established 11 years
Full services include: marketing, booking administration, guest liaison, changeovers and day to day caretaking.
We assist second home owners in the area, from pre‐purchase advice to ongoing property management.
Services include: caretaking visits, on‐site management of emergencies and key‐holder services
We assist second home owners in the area, from pre‐purchase advice to ongoing property management.
We assist second home owners in the area, from pre‐purchase advice to ongoing property management.
Services include: caretaking visits, on‐site management of emergencies and key‐holder services
Services include: caretaking visits, on‐site management of emergencies and key‐holder services
Full services include: marketing, booking administration, guest liaison, changeovers and day to day caretaking. Penfold Property & Lifestyle Management
Services include: caretaking visits, on‐site management of emergencies and key‐holder services
Our service can be tailored to suit your needs and to ensure your insurance requirements are met. If you would like to find out more about our services or how we may be able to help you, please call Angela Penfold on 07887 926347 or by email at angela@penfoldproperty.com
Our service can be tailored to suit
Our service can be tailored to suit your needs and to ensure your insurance requirements are met.
Our service can be tailored to suit your needs and to ensure your insurance requirements are met.
If you would like to find out more about our services or how we may be able to help you, please call Angela Penfold on 07887 926347 or by email at angela@penfoldproperty.com
If you would like to find out more about our services or how we may be able to help you, please call Angela Penfold on
Fowlis Wester Village Hall
We are pleased to announce the date for Fowlis Wester Village Charity Plant Sale, this year the plant sale and coffee morning will be held on Saturday, 16 May there will be more details to follow but rest assured there will be the usual wide array of perennials, veggies, annuals and much more. We look forward to welcoming you to raise funds for the Hall and another local charity.
Pitlochry Rotary Citizen of the Year
It is time for us to invite you to nominate this year’s Citizen of the Year! We are looking for candidates who truly demonstrate care for others in the community and give time to deal with the many challenges that arise in the very special environment that is Pitlochry. Nominations must reach us by Tuesday, 21 April. Contact Dougal Spaven or email Secretary@Pitlochry.rotary1010.org.
We are grateful for the continued sponsorship of RW Bell!
Aberfeldy Drama Club
Following our successful Christmas Show, The Wizard of Oz, the Drama Club has been busy rehearsing One Act Plays for the annual Scottish Community Drama Association festival. We performed three plays in the Perthshire District Festival in Blairgowrie at the end of February and as a result returned home with 5 trophies. McLean, written by Bob Davidson was awarded the Sandy Miller Cup for 2nd place in the Open Competition.
Listen to the Walls by Anna Price and Sandra Batty was awarded the Allan Proctor Trophy for third place. Also the Stirling Stone for the Best Moment of Theatre and the Frank Martin Award for the best depiction of Scottish Life and Character.
Aberfeldy Youth Drama Team performed Revived 45 written by Alan Brown. They
won the Billy Gordon Trophy for the first placed Youth team and were also 4th in the Open Competition.
We look forward to forthcoming rounds of the competition with our youth team performing in the Youth Divisional final on March 14 and two Aberfeldy Teams taking part in the Divisional Open final in Kirkwall, Orkney on Easter Weekend.
We are always grateful for the tremendous support our club receives from the local community. You will get the opportunity to see all three plays when we perform them in Aberfeldy Town Hall on Thursday, 4 June and Friday, 5 June. Further details later.
Image shows David Roy and Ally Marshall in “McLean” written by Bob Davidson.
Photo by David Stanton
Chris Mitchell Landscapes
Professional Company Based near Aberfeldy • Garden and Grounds Maintenance
• Landscape Design and implementation
• Specialising in Indian Sandstone Patios
• Full array of professional machinery suitable for all garden works and tree and log splitting services For a free Consultation please phone Chris on 07988 965949
t: 08000 463422
m: 07789 007072
We provide specialist cleaning, restoration and protection, using professional methods tailored to each surface.
• Bring your Amtico & Karndean floors back to life
• Deep clean, seal and protect your natural stone floors
• Professionally polish your marble floors - not just clean them
• Revitalise your tiles and grout for instantly brighter rooms
• Specialist carpet cleaning packages tailored to your household
• Fabric and leather upholstery care - refresh, revive and protect
info@hydrokleenscotland.co.uk
www.hydrokleenscotland.co.uk
#SHORN by Elsa McTaggart - Get ready for an unforgettable night at the Aberfeldy Town Hall on Saturday, 18 April with the #SHORN event! Join us for an evening where music and artistry collide, featuring the incredible talents of multiinstrumentalists Elsa McTaggart and Gary Lister. Their unique blend of original music and various styles will captivate your senses and leave you wanting more. Don’t miss out on this exclusive celebration of talent! Online tickets are available now, so grab yours and be part of this remarkable experience. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it! Elsa and Gary have a lifetime of experience between them and cannot wait to bring this new show to Aberfeldy, celebrating 15 years of touring and marriage with a new and eclectic show of original songs, music and anecdotes. Retracing the footsteps of their honeymoon Red Shoes tour of 15 years ago… #SHORN signifies a coming of age, the shedding of the old and embracing of the new! Perfect for a date in spring! Join us for an evening that celebrates creativity, passion, and the transformative power of music. Secure yourself a place by purchasing an online ticket today, bring family or friends for a unique and unforgettable evening.
Highland Perthshire branch of the Scottish Wildlife Trust
Wild about Inverbroom is the Scottish Wildlife Trust talk on Monday, 20 April, 7.20 pm for a 7.30 pm start (finishing around 9 pm) at The Tryst, Church of Scotland, Church Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5EB. Suggested donation: £3 non-members / £2 members (cash on the day).
Join the Pitlochry and Highland Perthshire branch of the Scottish Wildlife Trust for our final talk of the season - and it’s a big one!
We’ll be hearing about the Trust’s ambitious plans for nature restoration at Inverbroom Estate in the Highlands. Acquired in 2025, Inverbroom Estate is the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s largest ever land acquisition, made possible by a £17.5 million private donation, the biggest gift in the charity’s history.
Covering 7,618 hectares - larger than the city of Dundee - the land was previously managed as a sporting estate and includes a diverse range of habitats such as peatland, ancient semi-natural woodland, farmland, and numerous lochs and lochans. Come along to hear about the Trust’s plans for habitat restoration across the estate and discover how the project will support wider efforts to tackle the nature and climate crises. For more information - markandrosie@ btinternet.com. To hear about future events - Sign up to the Scottish Wildlife Trust mailing list: www.scottishwildlifetrust. org.uk/sign-up-to-our-mailing-list/ Image - Inverbroom (c) LANDFOR
Heartland Film Society at the Birks Cinema Aberfeldy
Our season continues with Wes Anderson’s The Phoenician Scheme on Sunday, 19 April at 6.30 pm.
Wealthy businessman Zsa-zsa Korda appoints his only daughter, a nun, as sole heir to his estate. As Korda embarks on a new enterprise, they soon become the target of scheming tycoons, foreign terrorists and determined assassins. The Phoenician Scheme features Wes Anderson’s signature style with symmetrical compositions, vibrant colours, and whimsical dialogue.
Heartland Film Society has The Thrift Shop for six days commencing Thursday, 12 April. Please bring donations of clothes, bric-a-brac, books etc to the shop in Chapel Street, Aberfeldy and help us raise funds to provide more films and supporting events over the coming months.
To find out more about The Heartland Film Society, what’s on and how to become a member please visit www.heartlandfilmsociety.org.uk. For details of The Birks Cinema and its growing programme of cultural and community events and activities, including films, go to www.birkscinema.co.uk.
Pitlochry & District Choral Society Join us at 7.30 pm for a wonderful evening of Rossini on Saturday, 18 April in Pitlochry Festival Theatre.
We will be teaming up with Crieff Choral Group to perform Rossini’s beautiful Petite Messe Solennelle. Pitlochry & District Choral Society www.pitlochrychoral.co.uk
Sahaja Yoga meditation on Zoom
Discover the peace of true meditation. Sahaja Yoga offers a simple and natural way to experience inner calm, balance and selfawareness. Sessions are free, guided and suitable for complete beginners. Every Thursday, 7.30 pm, online. No need to book; just join in. Everyone is welcome. Zoom link: us02web.zoom. /j/4168216563 - Meeting ID: 416 821 6563
Find out more at www.SahajaYoga.org.uk.
Councillor John Duff
Highland Ward - Conservative
Last month’s diesel spill from a tank at the Lix Toll garage near Killin, could have been far worse than it appears to have been in the end. It is still a significant contamination event and bad enough, especially for the residents of Killin, whose water supplies were interrupted, the River Dochart and potentially Loch Tay. A full investigation into the circumstances and the followup actions must be taken once the recovery phase is over. About 15,000 litres of diesel leaked from the tank into the ground near the garage. From there, the spill seeped into a small stream and then made its way into the River Dochart. This area is within the Stirling Council area, but it wasn’t long before the pollution made its way into Loch Tay and towards the River Tay. Many concerns were raised about the time taken for SEPA to attend at the locus and begin to coordinate the necessary actions to prevent any further pollution. Thankfully, much of the diesel appears to have remained in the ground, and significant containment and excavation of the polluted ground is taking place. It is difficult at this point to estimate what environmental damage has occurred to the river, loch and their freshwater inhabitants, however, in many ways we have been lucky, as the bulk of the diesel didn’t make it into the watercourse. Lessons need to be learned to ensure such an incident isn’t repeated.
I recently attended a meeting in Edinburgh in relation to Democracy Festivals, in the hope of securing a Scottish festival for Perth and Kinross. The festival aims to revitalise democracy by strengthening the link between our political system and the people by creating spaces and opportunities for dialogue and participation. They originated in the Scandinavian/Baltic countries and are platforms for respectful, constructive dialogue across a wide variety of opinions and ages, with people from all walks of life coming together to discuss how to improve their countries. The events attract society activists, entrepreneurs, government officials, politicians, and the general public encouraging them to sit together, to listen and to casually talk about their ideas to make their country a better place. If I can be of any assistance to constituents, groups or local businesses on any matter, please contact me on jcduff@pkc.gov.uk, Mobile: 07826 908542 or Office Tel: 01738 475095.
Music Night at The Breadalbane Reading Room - Wednesday night is Music Night at the Breadalbane Reading Room, Kenmore. All welcome for an amazing evening of great music and song. From 7 pm until 10 pm. Free entry. Dog friendly. Refreshments. BOYB.
Dunkeld & Birnam Traditional Youth Music Group - If you would like to learn to play, or take up a second instrument, DB Trad Group runs classes for whistle, guitar, fiddle and accordion with a focus on learning traditional Scottish music. Classes are in small groups lasting half an hour, are completely free and we provide instruments, without cost, for our members to take home and use as their own.
Suitable for ages P5 - S6.
If you’d like to join one of our bands, we welcome accordion, string, wind and brass players, guitarists, pianists, percussionists and more to join our musical adventures. All run on Mondays during term time, based at Birnam Arts. Group lessons - 4 pm to 6 pm Junior band (P5-S2) - 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm Senior band (S3-S6) - 7.30 to 8.30 pm
As always, huge thanks for making our group possible go to SSE Renewables, National Lottery, Gordon Duncan Memorial Trust, Basil Death Trust, Scops Arts Trust, The Lang Foundation, Hugh Fraser Foundation and Enchanted Forest for their funding, and our local community who have generously donated money and instruments. For more info: dbtradgroup@gmail.com 07958 324766
Come and have a go at RowingThe Loch Tay Skiff Club are getting back on the water and enjoying the camaraderie of rowing together a couple of times a week, as well as making occasional visits to other events and clubs around Scotland. On Saturday, 25 April there’s a chance to come and have a go. If you like it, you could consider joining up for the year ahead. Find us at the shore inside the Diamond Resort Kenmore Club from 1 pm. (16-18 year-olds with parental consent/attendance).
The AGM for members will be held at 4 pm on the same day at Kenmore Pavilion (at the sports field inside Taymouth west gates.)
Pitlochry and Moulin Men’s Shed (PAMMS)
We meet weekly in the Men’s Shed, at 2 Burnside Rd (behind the lower Davidson’s Chemist) on a Tuesday at 2 pm to 4 pm. The Shed gives an opportunity for folks to work on projects and chat about experiences over tea, coffee and biscuits. Currently the Shed is developing a tool-library to support personal and community projects. The Men’s Shed meets all year round. Formally, the Men’s Shed is a single gendered protected shared space and is 18+ We welcome new and old participants.
Highland
Perthshire Community Orchestra
If you would like to join a community orchestra, open to adult musicians of all abilities, please scan the QR code and fill in the survey, or send an email to perthshirecommunityorchestra@gmail.com.
Blair Atholl Golf Club - Established in 1896, we are celebrating 130 years of golfing at Blair Atholl with a new club logo! Our 9-hole Highland Perthshire gem is still going strong in 2026 with plenty more new ideas to celebrate this coming season too. You can keep up to date with all that we are up to these days by checking our Facebook page or website www.blairathollgolf.co.uk. We are introducing 2 new Open competitions. A four-person Team Texas Scramble on Sunday, 26 April and Ladies Greensome on Saturday, 16 May. These are running alongside our 3 existing very popular events. A Senior Gents Stableford Open on Tuesday, 23 June, Ladies Tri-am on Saturday, 4 July and Gents Strokeplay Open on Saturday, 5 September. If you fancy playing in any of these Opens you can enter through our Blair Atholl Golf Club website. Our doors are open to everyone - golfers, hikers, A9 road-trippers and locals alike. You don’t need a tee-time to enjoy a fresh bake and a coffee! The decking at the clubhouse is a great place to sit and enjoy your food while looking at the lovely scenery. We look forward to welcoming new and returning visitors to our Club in 2026.
Scottish Parliamentary Election
Thursday, 7 May 2026
Mid Atholl Community Council
If you would like to know more about what is happening in your community, access our minutes, or find the latest news on planning or other updates, please go to our website at: www.midatholl. org.uk or scan the QR code to right.
Loch Tay Association: If you love
Loch Tay, we need your help
Loch Tay is the heart of our community, but beneath its pristine surface, the water is fast arriving at a tipping point.
From devastating diesel spills and sewage incidents to the surge of invasive species and choking algal blooms, the warning signs are clear. Nutrient levels are climbing, threatening the clarity and life of the loch we love. With limited official monitoring, the responsibility to protect this magnificent asset falls directly on us.
The Loch Tay Association is stepping up, but our impact is limited by our numbers. To fight back, we need more than just passion - we need a stronger mandate and the funds to act.
Your membership changes everything. This year, our volunteers are launching a yearlong water testing project to establish a vital data baseline. For example with your support, we can move from manual testing to automated, high-tech equipment that provides the undeniable evidence needed to force meaningful intervention from environmental agencies.
Don’t let Loch Tay’s beauty become a memory. Scan the QR code below to join us today. Your small annual contribution is the investment our loch deserves.
Atholl curlers out in force as sport gains Olympic attention
While the nation watched on with interest from their armchairs as Britain’s curlers vied for honours at the recent Winter Olympics, closer to home, Highland Perthshire’s curlers have once again been back out in force on the ice this winter.
clubs represented the province in the annual Atholl and Breadalbane Bonspiel at Dewars Centre in Perth, competing against rinks from the neighbouring Breadalbane Province. In what is always a closely fought and keenly contested bonspiel, it was Atholl that narrowly took the honours, with Dunkeld being the highest up rink.
With some of the clubs tracing their history back over 180 years, today’s curlers are keen to uphold the rich heritage of curling that has endured in Highland Perthshire for at least two centuries. Atholl Province and its curling clubs are hoping to encourage those whose interest in the sport was again piqued during the Olympics onto the ice when the new curling season commences in the autumn.
As a friendly, social and accessible sport, curling can be enjoyed by players of all ages and abilities. Whether it is individuals stepping onto the ice for the first time or those returning to the sport that they may have played at school, the members of Dunkeld, Murthly, Toberargan and Tullymet curling clubs offer welcoming and supportive groups in which to try the roaring game. Dewars Centre in Perth also runs regular Try Curling sessions each winter, with information regarding session dates and times available on its curling website www. perthcurling.com.
Aberfeldy Quilters - Annette has made this amazing 12-inch unfinished block to enter into a competition for The Quilters’ Guild Regional Day. It is a complicated foundation piecing pattern of an Easter bunny which looks fantastic with the fabrics Annette has chosen. We wish her well in the competition and feel sure she will win a prize with this beautiful rabbit.
The curling clubs that make up the Atholl Province - Dunkeld, Murthly, Toberargan (Pitlochry) and Tullymet - have been fielding rinks to compete in a series of competitions over the winter months. Recently, three
Aberfeldy Community Choir - The choir draws members from all round Aberfeldy, from Ballinluig to the east to Kenmore to the west, and welcomes anyone who loves to sing, from soprano voices down to basses. No audition is needed, or ability to read music, and our songs are a mixture of popular music and old favourites in 3 or 4 parts, (depending on how many tenors come along!) Fees are subsidised at £25 per term. We meet every Monday in school term time, from 7 pm to 9 pm in the Farragon room at the rear of Aberfeldy Church of Scotland, Taybridge Road, Aberfeldy. We are led by Anna Glover, and Liz Sawyer is our accompanist. Do come along. For more details text or call Malize McBride, Secretary, on 07754 859484, or email malizemcbride@gmail.com.
Celebrating the life of Vesper (29 August 2011 - 9 January 2026) This month’s front cover comes courtesy of Olivia Ingleby. Vesper stands at one of his favourite swimming spots by the River Tay, along the path to Dunkeld House. Oivia said ‘Losing a beloved pet is hard, but he is not really lost - he’s still present with us, just in spirit. At the river, in the forests, and around so many special places. One of nature’s true gentlemen and a beautiful old soul, so gentle and sweet. To all Vesper’s friends and family: thank you for your friendship and all the good times.’
Local Families Unite to Secure the Future of Independent Funeral Care in Perthshire
Derek Wittmann Family Funeral Directors has announced a new chapter in its long-standing service to families acrossAberfeldy and the wider Perthshire area.
Derek Wittmann will continue to lead the business, remaining fully involved in all funeral arrangements and services. Known locally for his compassionate and professional approach, Derek has supported families throughout Perthshire for many years, guiding them with care and dignity during life’s most difficult times. The business is now owned by the Cross family, a wellestablished local family with deep roots in the community. The partnership brings together two local families with a shared commitment to safeguarding independent, family-led funeral care for future generations.
Derek Wittmann said: “It has always been my priority to provide personal and respectful care to families when they need it most. I am pleased that this partnership ensures the long-term stability of the business, while allowing me to continue serving the community as I always have.”
Amanda Cross added: “As a local family business ourselves, we understand the importance of trust, integrity and long-term commitment to the community. We are proud to support Derek in continuing his work and ensuring that independent funeral care remains firmly rooted in Perthshire.”
Pitlochry Baptist Church
Atholl Road, PH16 5BX
Pastor: Rev David Barrie (pastor@pbcweb.net) www.pbcweb.net
Sundays - Our Worship Gathering is from 10.30 am. If you’re exploring faith or looking for a place to call home, come as you are and join us. We run a full programme for babies to teenagers. We look forward to welcoming you. Sunday, 5 April - Easter Sunday. *Easter Sunrise Communion, Ladies Dell by Loch Faskally from 7.30 am *Easter Sunday Baptisms, Ladies Dell by Loch Faskally from 10.30 am *Pitlochry Easter Egg Hunt, Ambi Park from 3 pm
Loch Tay and Glenlyon, Church of Scotland Minister, Rev Joanne Foster 07591 254652 Email joannefoster@churchofscotland.org.uk
Weekly worship at 10 am at Loch Tay and Glenlyon Church in Fortingall. Holy Week and Easter services
Thursday, 2 April - Maundy Thursday service. Joint service at 6.30pm in Rannoch Church
Friday, 3 April - Good Friday, 11 am, Joint Service at Loch Tay and Glenlyon Church at Fortingall
Sunday, 5 April - Easter Sunday with communion.
Dunkeld Parish Church
Services in Dunkeld Cathedral, Little Dunkeld Kirk and Amulree Church
Rev. R. Fraser Penny, The Manse, Cathedral Street, Dunkeld PH8 0AW. Tel: 01350 727249. Email: minister@dunkeldcathedral.org.uk
For the children during term time - *Stay & Play babies and toddlers group: Wednesdays 10 am to 12 pm *Friday Night Youth Club: 6.30 pm to 8 pm for primary 4-7 and 8 pm to 9.30 pm for secondary. *Pitlochry Youth Café for secondary pupils Tuesdays 3.30 pm to 6 pm during term time. Other notices - *The Storehouse (Pitlochry Community Foodbank): Drop-in Monday 10 am to 12 pm. Contact: thestorehouse@pbcweb.net *WA Soup Lunches: Fridays 12 pm to 2 pm in Pitlochry Baptist Church Centre. A special Good Friday Service on Friday, 3 April at 1 pm *Pitlochry Bereavement Companions Café: Saturday, 25 April 10.30 am to 12 pm in the church centre. *The Bereavement Journey: 7-week course for anyone bereaved starting Monday, 20 April from 7 pm to 9 pm. Contact admin@ pbcweb.net
Check us out on our website or Facebook or Instagram for up-to-date information.
Sunday Worship - 11 am in Dunkeld Cathedral, until Remembrance Sunday; 11 am in Little Dunkeld Kirk, from Remembrance Sunday until Easter Amulree Church - Services at 2.15 pm on the third Sunday of the month, Sunday, 19 April. Visitors and children are always warmly welcomed at any of our services, and all are invited to stay for tea and coffee after the service.
Stepping Stones (for people of all ages) - Meets at 10 am. Sunday, 12 April in the Chanonry, just down from the Cathedral. Each week we look at a Bible story and after a time of worship there are activities for children and a discussion group for adults based on the theme.
Messy Music - Taking a break during the Easter holidays. To find out more about future plans, please contact Hazel Murch on music@dunkeldcathedral.org.uk.
Easter Services
Thursday, 2 April - Maundy Thursday Communion Service in Dunkeld Cathedral, 7 pm.
Friday, 3 April - Good Friday Service in St Mary’s Birnam, 7 pm
Sunday, 5 April - Communion Service in Dunkeld Cathedral, 9 am; Easter Egg Hunt in Cathedral Grounds 10.30 am; Easter Sunday Service in the Cathedral 11 am
Please check our website for further information: www.dunkeldcathedral.org.
Aberfeldy Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses
You are welcome to join us at the Kingdom Hall, Moness Terrace, Aberfeldy. Our meetings feature short talks and discussions on Bible topics. The meetings include talks and discussions. Sunday, 5 10.30 am, Thursday, 9 7 pm, Sunday, 12 10.30 am, Thursday, 16 7 pm, Sunday, 19 10.30 am, Thursday, 23 7 pm, Sunday, 26 10.30 am and Thursday, 30 April 7 pm.If you would like a lift to a meeting, get in touch. 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 on 07802 753193. At jw.org you will find more.
You can find all of The Quair advertising details at our website by scanning the QR Code to the left and view our Facebook page by scanning the QR code to the right
Rannoch Church of Scotland
Minister: The Reverend Joanne Foster
Email: joannefoster@churchofscotland.org.uk
Services are held every Sunday starting at 12 pm in Rannoch Church of Scotland with a time for coffee, tea and fellowship at 11.30 am before the service starts.
Thursday, 2 April - Maundy Thursday. Tenebrae Service with communion, 6.30 pm
Friday, 3 April - Good Friday. Joint service at Loch Tay & Glenlyon Church, Fortingall, starting at 11 am. (No service in Rannoch.)
Sunday, 5 April - Easter Sunday. 12 pm in Rannoch Church of Scotland. Make an Easter bonnet, and join us for this celebration of joy.
The Scottish Episcopal Church
Part of the Diocese of St Andrews, Dunkeld and Dunblane Rector: Reverend 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 Page: www.en-gb.facebook.com/highlandperthshirechurches.
All are welcome at services in our churches and on Zoom. Check website for updates.
Holy Trinity Church, Perth Road, Pitlochry - Contact - Robin Baker, 01796 472005. Holy Trinity is open regularly from Easter to Christmas. The Serenity Garden is open daily.
Sunday Services - Sunday worship is at 10 am in Pitlochry Church. 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. There will be no service on Sunday, 26 April as the joint service will be in Blair Atholl.
Community Care - This continues in The Tryst Lounge on Tuesdays from 10 am to 2 pm and on Thursdays from 10 am to 3 pm. If you, or anyone you know, would benefit from these activities, please contact the Community Care team at The Tryst for details.
Monday Group (Guild) - Meets on Monday, 13 April at 2.30 pm in The Tryst for a talk by Shirley Jack, Morag Uytman and Carole Wilson on their Trefoil Guild trip to India. All welcome. Tea and coffee follow the talk.
Wednesday Coffee & Chat - Tea, coffee and biscuits from 10.30 am till 12 pm in The Tryst Lounge. Everyone is very welcome to catch up with friends, neighbours and to meet new people.
Table Tennis - Meet on Thursdays 2 pm until 4 pm in The Tryst Hall.
Church Office - The Tryst, for all enquiries and deliveries contact by email thetryst@ btconnect.com or telephone 01796 474010. The office is open from 9.30 am to 11.30 am Tuesday to Thursday. Emails and telephone messages are checked regularly.
Blair Atholl & Struan Church
Session Clerk: Harold Ingram 01796 481275
Sunday Services - Worship is at 11.30 am in Blair Atholl Church. On Sunday, 26 April there will be a joint service with Pitlochry Church,
We invite you to our Coffee Corner, in the church hall on Thursdays from 10.30 am to 12 pm.
Tenandry Kirk - Killiecrankie
Interim Moderator: Rev Neil Glover
Session Clerk: Anne Randle mob: 07710 421974
Normal Sunday service at 10.30 am. 1st Sunday of the month.
26 April Service - Tribute to the late Morag MacMartin M.B.E.
Coffee/Tea following the service. All Welcome
St Mary’s Scottish Episcopal Church
Perth Road, Birnam, Dunkeld, PH8 0BJ
Serving Birnam, Dunkeld and surrounding areas
Our main service of worship takes place at 10.00 every Sunday morning. It is a service of Holy Communion with prayers, readings, music and a sermon. We are a family and child-friendly church. This service normally lasts for an hour and we hope you will join us.
Check up to date information at www.stmarysbirnam.org.uk
Church of Scotland, Aberfeldy Area Aberfeldy (SC007899), Dull and Weem (SC001465) and Grantully, Logierait & Strathtay (SC004275) Parish Churches. Minister - Rev. Neil Glover - nglover@ churchofscotland.org.uk Tel: 07779 280074 PA - Judy Ewer - judy.ewer@adwgls.org.uk Telephone: 07836 565528
Regular Sunday morning worship
Dull and Weem Parish Church - 9.45
am. Please consult the website for current information on services at www.dullandweemparish.org.
Strathtay, Grantully and Logierait Parish Churches - 10.30 am. Please consult the website for current information on services at www.glschurchofscotland.org.
Aberfeldy Parish Church - 10.45 am. Please consult the website for current information on services at www.aberfeldyparishchurch.org.
We also offer a YouTube service from Aberfeldy Parish Church. Details can be found on the church website. This is a great way to stay connected if you are unable to be there in person.
First Sunday of the month - Joint service with Aberfeldy, Dull and Weem, and Gran-
tully, Logierait and Strathtay (GLS). 10.30 am. See church websites for details. Services for Holy Week
Wednesday, 1 April - 7 pm. Strathtay Parish Church
Thursday, 2 April - 7 pm. Maundy Thursday with Communion. Aberfeldy Parish Church
Friday, 3 April - Weem Parish Church. 7 pm. Good Friday. Sunday 5 April - Easter Sunday. Please see our church websites for details of service times and additional services
Church-based activities
‘Warm Welcome Café’ and Stay and Play - Aberfeldy Parish Church on Tuesday mornings. Tea and coffee, biscuits and baking. Stay and Play: 9.30 am to 11.30 am (during term time only). Warm Welcome Café: 10 am to 12 pm. If you would like to be involved in any way, please contact judy. ewer@adwgls.co.uk.
Waddle & Quack - Wednesdays at 10.30 am. Walk & Talk has been renamed Waddle & Quack. For the winter months the pastoral team at Aberfeldy Parish Church are now meeting at The Watermill (in the alcove at the back). You can stay in the warm enjoying a steaming coffee and a crispy bacon roll with the ‘Quackers’, or head out with a few of the flock for a short waddle before returning for coffee. All welcome. No need to book. Just turn up and see who else is there.
Aberfeldy Quilting Group - Aberfeldy Parish Church, Farragon Room. Thursdays, 10 am to 2 pm. Contact: www.aberfeldyparishchurch.org.
Aberfeldy Prayer Meeting - Aberfeldy Parish Church. 4.45 pm to 6 pm every Wednesday in Farragon. All are welcome to come along.
Aberfeldy Alcoholics Anonymous - Aberfeldy Parish Church, Kitchen. 7.30 pm to 9 pm every Tuesday. Contact: 01887 820936.
Dull and Weem Chit Chat Café - First Monday of the month in the Macdonald Room, Dull and Weem Kirk. For further information please contact Liz Bruce at DullandWeemChurch@gmail.com.
Strathtay Coffee Break - The group meets every Wednesday in the John Kyd Hall, beside Strathtay Church, at 10.30 am. All are welcome to come along and join in.
Strathtay Quilting Group - John Kyd Hall. 7 pm to 9 pm on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. Contact: gls. churchofscotland@gmail.com.
Please look at the church website for the latest information.
Church website information
Aberfeldy Parish Church: www.aberfeldyparishchurch.org Dull and Weem Parish Church: www.dullandweemparish.org
Grantully, Logierait and Strathtay Parish Church: www.glschurchofscotland.org
RC Parish of St Bride encompassing St Bride’s, Rie-Achan Road, Pitlochry PH16 5AL, Our Lady of Mercy, Home Street, Aberfeldy PH15 2AJ and St Columba’s, St Mary’s Road, Birnam, PH8 OBJ
The Parish Priest of St Bride’ Parish is Canon Steven Mulholland MA formerly of St John’s in Perth e: stbridespitlochry@dunkelddiocese.org.uk
St Columba’s Catholic Church - Birnam (PH8 0BJ) Saturday Mass 4 pm
Our Lady of Mercy Catholic ChurchAberfeldy (PH15 2AL) Sunday Mass 9.30 am
St Bride’s Catholic Church - Pitlochry (PH16 5AL) Sunday Mass 11.30 am. All welcome.
For any further information please contact the Parish Priest: stbridespitlochry@dunkelddiocese.org.uk
Pitlochry Community First Responders|Volunteers urgently required|Please apply now and help save lives in your community! Pitlochry Community First Responders (PCFR) is a local non-profit charity. We assist the Scottish Ambulance Service, who have First Responder groups across Scotland.
All volunteers are fully trained by the Ambulance Service, and live or work in the community. Responders can attend certain serious medical situations, sustaining life until an ambulance arrives.
All types of Electrical & TV works
The ambulance control centre deploys the on-duty Responders when a local 999 call is received, which they will not be able to reach rapidly. Using their own vehicles, day or night, Pitlochry First Responders selflessly operate in the local area. We cover from Blair Atholl to Ballinluig, and are in contact with the Dunkeld and Aberfeldy groups to ensure good coverage.
This is an important, life-saving local charity, and we need everyone’s support in many ways!
Most importantly, we are currently recruiting more volunteer First Responders. Responders are vital to the community, and your own lives could well depend on them one day.
No previous first aid experience is necessary as full training is given by the ambulance service. Responders need to be over the age of eighteen and have access to a reliable car while on duty.
Please scan the QR Code above for direct access, or visit our website for application forms for First Responders and our PCFR Friends group. Please share this information with others. Visit our secure website: www.pitlochryresponders.org or email us: info@pitlochryresponders.org. We need you, because you might need us! PCFR, saving local lives. Always call 999 in an emergency.
Highland Perthshire Photography Group (HPPG)
HPPG meets at 7 pm in The Birks Cinema, Aberfeldy on the last Monday of each month.
Installation, rewires, new builds, TV aerials, FREEVIEW, satellite dishes and FREESAT
Free estimates and advice, ABERFELDY BASED
Mike MacDougall 07718 122037 email: mmelec@hotmail.co.uk
We invite all local photographers, whether beginners or more experienced camera users to join us to share experience and expertise at these friendly, informal gettogethers. We also hold themed workshops and host occasional inspiring talks to stimulate our own interests and skills development in different photographic genres - such as landscape, portrait, macro, street photography, as well as black and white and mobile phone photography. Join us for our photoshoot excursions to the wide range of wonderful places of photographic interest on our doorstep and slightly further afield. So why not see if the group is what you have been looking for to take forward and develop your photography - and exchange ideas and photographic tips and tricks with like-minded people in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Our next get-together in the Birks Cinema will be at 7pm on Monday, 27 April. Just come along to find out more.
The Meeting Place, Dunkeld
We meet every Friday morning in the Duchess Anne in Dunkeld from 10 am to 12 pm. Friday, 24 April - Dunkeld and Birnam in Bloom.
Come and join us for some lovely home baking and good company.
Chimney Sweep
Dementia Café - The Dementia Café is held in the North Church, High Street, Perth on the first Wednesday of the month from 10 am until 12.30 pm.
Traineeship. We very much look forward to working ‘on the hill’ with new apprentices and the new rural skills trainees during the year ahead.
Chimneys Swept Clean with No Mess
Professional and friendly service throughout Perthshire
Birds and Infestations Removed
Chimney Pots, Cowls, Caps and Guards
Fitted - CCTV Surveys Completed
Call Felix on 07581 490536
We have Awareness Day Events planned for Wednesday, 3 June and Wednesday, 7 October this year. These events consist of twelve individual services who can offer information and advice on the day. We also have social work, New Rannochday care/carers support and the Community Mental Health team attending. The café is facilitated by the Health and Social Care Partnership and access to both services is available for information, advice, and signposting to other services available. People living with Dementia, their families, caregivers, friends, neighbours, and anyone looking to gain an insight into Dementia attend the monthly café.
The café offers a warm, inviting, safe place where people can meet, socialise, gain information, and have some refreshments. All are welcome.
Dun Coillich
Where people and nature thrive
Dun Coillich is a community-owned landscape regeneration and rural skills training project in Glen Goulandie. The site is owned by the charity Highland Perthshire Communities Land Trust, which manages the land for wildlife and for the local community.
HPCLT annual meeting and lecture - If you would like to find out more about our work, please join us at our annual meeting at the Birks Cinema on Saturday, 25 April from 2 pm. Our guest speaker will be Anthony McCluskey from Butterfly Conservation. Anthony lives locally and will be speaking about special butterflies and moths of Highland Perthshire, some of which are found at Dun Coillich. For more information, please contact projectofficer@hpclt.org.
Apprentices and Rural Skills Trainees - We were delighted to receive lots of strong applications for our Apprenticeship Scheme, an innovative partnership with FLS, NTS Ben Lawers and Kynachan and Dalchonsie Estate. The two Apprentices appointed have progressed from our
HPCLT at the Aberfeldy Thrift Shop in February - Thanks to everyone who came along to support our February stint at the Thrift Shop in Aberfeldy. It helped us raise some funds, and it was good to talk to visitors about our work.
Join us! Why not become a member of HPCLT? Our members support our work and become part of our community. Annual membership is £15. To find out more please go to www.duncoillich.org/supportus-2025.
For more information - Visit the What’s On page of our website www.duncoillich. org to find out where we are, what we do and how to book. You can also follow our Facebook Group (Dun Coillich Community Land) for regular updates!
Got a room?
Help bring theatre to life
Pitlochry Festival Theatre is looking for local hosts to support our amazing cast, crew and creative teams for short stays (between one to eight weeks). If you have a spare room with access to cooking and laundry facilities - or even a self-contained cottage or annex - we’d love to hear from you! Hosting helps us provide affordable accommodation to the talented people who bring our productions to life, and it’s a great way to get involved behind the scenes.
Bonus - You could earn up to £7,500 per year tax-free through the government’s Rent-a-Room Scheme. If you’re interested or want to learn more, please get in touch with producing@pitlochryfestivaltheatre.com today!
Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries
Breadalbane Community Library
Code Club - Held every Thursday from 3.45 pm to 4.45 pm. A weekly term-time coding club for children aged eight to 12. Bookbug session - Held every Friday from 11.15 am to 11.45 am. An under-fives activity session with songs, rhymes and stories.
Breadalbane Heritage Society Family History Group - If you are looking for help to research your family history and create your family tree, the Family History Group may be able to help. Please contact Helen Stewart at helenstewart.bhs@gmail. com or get in touch with the library. Support sessions are held in the library and are by prior arrangement only.
Creative writing with Open Book - Join the Aberfeldy Creative Writing Group with local author Linda Cracknell. All welcome. Monthly on Thursdays from 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm.
Books on Wheels - For individuals who cannot get out and about to visit the library, including books in large print and audio formats. Please contact the library for further information.
Maker_Space - Free access to creative technology, including a 3D printer and Adobe Creative Cloud.
Digital services - Free public access to computers, Wi-Fi, printing, wireless printing with Princh, photocopying and scanning facilities.
E-resources - Online library services are available 24/7 via www.culturepk.org.uk/libraries or through the library app. Resources include e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines, e-news and reference tools such as trove.scot, Theory Test PRO and Ancestry. Opening hours - Monday: Closed; Tuesday: 10 am to 7 pm; Wednesday: 10 am to 6 pm; Thursday: 10 am to 7 pm; Friday: 10 am to 6 pm; Saturday: 10 am to 1 pm; Sunday: Closed
Our whisky shop has been synonymous with fine whisky, wines and spirits for over 60 years. We have customers from all around the globe who visit our shop and website to grab themselves a nice bottle of Scotland’s famous spirit.
As well as whisky, we stock a huge host of world wines, spirits and beers as well as a comprehensive range of craft gins.
Robertsons of Pitlochry, 44-46 Atholl Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5BX
www.robertsonsofpitlochry.co.uk
Tel. 01796 472011
Reid Tree & Garden Services
• Tree felling, shaping & trimming
• All other landscaping services available
• Mono blocking, Patios & Paths laid
• Pathways & drives gravelled
• Slabbing and walls repaired or replaced
• Fencing & Turfing
• All types and sizes of trees supplied and planted - from 1m to 10m
Become a Hedgehog Champion
Become a Hedgehog Champion with the British Hedgehog Preservation Society/Peoples’ Trust for Endangered Species. How long is it since you last saw a hedgehog? They are now officially classed as vulnerable to extinction in the UK. There are many reasons and it’s sad to think of such a fate for this unique and prickly little creature. Here are ways to help: *Link your garden with Hedgehog Highways *Create a wild corner *Make your pond safe with a ramp *Clear away netting and litter *Put out food and water *Stop using chemicals *Check before strimming *Be careful with bonfires *Make a home for hedgehogs *Become a Hedgehog Champion. What’s a Hedgehog Highway? Since they travel between 1-2 km a night searching for food and a mate, a small gap in your fence the size of a CD case will let them pass through. You can become a Hedgehog Champion by registering on www. hedgehogstreet.org.
Ear Wax Removal Service
Perthshire, Angus and Fife
Home Visits
Microsuction and Water Irrigation
Contact: Rhona Findlay
01821 640453 07925 125506
NHS Certified, BA, ADM, RGN, DipHE
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The Dunkeld and District Strathspey and
Reel Society
The Dunkeld and District Strathspey and Reel Society meet every Monday, during term time, in The Royal School of Dunkeld, between 7.30 pm - 9.30 pm, where we enjoy playing traditional, and contemporary Scottish music together, under the guidance of our musical director and conductor Pete Clark.
We are a friendly group, and welcome players of all instruments that work within an orchestra setting.
There is the option to either join as full member, or just come along when you can and pay on the night. For information, or to learn more about our group, our website is www.dunkeldstrathspeyandreel.org
Brew for the Crew
A Brew for the Crew Easter Afternoon Tea will be held at McLean Hall Fearnan on Saturday, 11 April 3 pm to 5 pm. £7.50 pp/school-age children half price.
Hosted jointly by Fearnan Village Association and the McLean Hall Management Committee.
All proceeds will go to Scottish Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) ‘Operation Skyward,’ to help fund a new H145 D3 helicopter.
Tryst Walking Group, Pitlochry
Due to dwindling numbers over the past few years, it was decided at our recent AGM to disband the Tryst Walking Group as of Tuesday, 3 March.
Mid Atholl & Strathtay SWI - The April meeting of Mid Atholl & Strathtay SWI is to be held in the John Kyd Hall, Strathtay on Wednesday, 15 April at 1.30 pm. This will be the AGM. There will be no guest speaker but we will have a Learning to Crochet session.
Get Happier and Healthier at parkrun in Aberfeldy & Pitlochry
Free, Friendly, and for Everyone
Do you know that research has shown that participating and/or volunteering at parkrun really does make people healthier and happier? There are parkrun events every weekend around the UK. In Scotland all events start at 9.30 am. It’s free, open to all ages, from babies being pushed in prams to folk 80 years young. We just ask that children under 11 years keep within arm’s reach of their responsible adult. You can decide to walk, jog or run the 5km route. Each parkrun has its own unique qualities. You can even bring your dog but only one dog per person on a short, handheld lead please. We’d encourage you to register (free) with parkrun at www.parkrun.org.uk/register/ Then bring along your barcode, which will enable you to receive an email with your completion time. You may prefer to volunteer to enjoy the camaraderie, it’s a great way to meet people and make friendships. There are a variety of volunteer roles, all are easy, and we will give you any training on the day if required.
Our local parkruns are - *Faskally Forest, Pitlochry, which meets at Loch Dunmore, home of the Enchanted Forest. *Feldyroo Fitness Trail, which starts near Wade’s bridge in Aberfeldy. * Perth and Aviemore, if you wish to travel further afield. To find out more look at our web/Facebook pages. Keith’s award winning tablet
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The Baha’i Faith: Springtime - February, March and April are significant months in the Baha’i calendar. Families ricochet from shared pleasures with those around us at Christmas and New Year to what’s known as Ayam-i-Ha at the end of February. A few days given over to hospitality, acts of service or charity, and sharing gifts with loved ones. This year we organised an International Potluck Lunch for the community at Aberfeldy Town Hall with dishes brought from Finland and Spain, Turkey and Borneo, Jamaica and Persia and more. A truly amazing and happy feast!
From March 2 to 20 is the 19 day Fast, a time for reflection and for remembrance of the sacrifices made for all the people of the world by Baha’u’llah.
March 21, the spring equinox, is celebrated as the Baha’i New Year, Naw Ruz, with parties and picnics, big and small!
Tuesday, 21 April is a Holy Day, the anniversary of the Declaration of Baha’u’llah in 1863 of God’s Message for this era, the time for mankind to work towards world unity. The setting for this 12 day event was in the Garden of Ridvan (Paradise), filled with the scent of roses and the sound of nightingales, on a small island in the centre of Baghdad. At this point He had already been an exile from Persia for 10 years. On this date, Baha’is all over the world, wherever there are 9 or more adults, will be electing their own Local Spiritual Assemblies for the year ahead.
There are regular devotional evenings in Aberfeldy on a Wednesday, open to those of all faiths or none, followed by discussions and a cuppa. Contact Rachel on 07707 994812 or for youth activities, Mark on 07564 259831. For a chat over coffee ring Hilarie on 07967 601423.
E: kenmore bakery@hotmail.com Facebook: Kenmore Bakery Come and
Dear Friends, Do you have a favourite number? Are you superstitiously drawn to 7? Are you geometrically attracted to 3.14? Are you athletically inclined to 26.2? Recently I heard a writer speculate that God’s favourite number might be 1.I was struck by this. Because 1 is simple but essential. The number on which all the other numbers depend. It is also the number of attention and affection. Jesus once told a story about a shepherd with 100 sheep (a nice round number) who left behind 99 (the ice-cream lover’s favourite number) to find the missing 1. This, said Jesus, about what God is like. God is committed to the 1. So in this multi-tasking, distracted, scattered world - where do you become preoccupied with far too many things? What is the 1 thing to which you must give yourself? Or, in any given moment, the 1 person? And might Jesus be right, that we are the 1s to whom God has given everything in love? God bless you, Neil Glover - Minister - Aberfeldy, Dull & Weem and Grantully, Logierait and Strathtay
Wellness Walks
It’s tempting to hibernate over these winter months but we all know our brains and bodies will thank us for keeping moving and connecting with people, even if it means getting a bit wet!
Wellness Walks are here to help! With regular walks, little local ones and slightly longer days out there’s plenty of chance to keep walking towards wellness this winter.
Walks are always free, friendly, in small groups and led by our qualified and insured leaders. They’re never a route march and you’ll never be left behind!
Walks are planned from Aberfeldy, Kenmore, Pitlochry, Blair Atholl and surrounding areas.
New walks are added regularly so be sure to check the website regularly. www.wellnesswalks.org.uk/region/scotland
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Young footballers celebrated at BSYFC awards evening
Breadalbane & Strathtay Youth Football Club celebrated another successful year of grassroots football with its Small-Sided Awards Evening held at Breadalbane Community Campus in Aberfeldy.
Around 150 players, parents, coaches and supporters attended the event which recognised the efforts and development of the club’s youngest players across a range of age groups.
The evening included music and refreshments and featured a special guest appearance from BBC sports presenter Eilidh Barbour, who helped present the awards and answered questions from the young players about her career in sport and broadcasting. The awards marked another milestone for the growing club, whose membership is now approaching 300 players from across Highland Perthshire, with increasing numbers of girls taking part in football.
Every player received a medal in recognition of their participation throughout the year, while a number of Player of the Year awards were presented across the various teams. A special moment of the evening was Kerry Davies awarded the Marlene Robertson Memorial Award for Outstanding Contribution. Kerry was recognised for her tireless work over a number of years - support-
ing the club behind the scenes, including organising fundraising events, running the matchday shop and leading the club’s highly successful Christmas raffle.
Young volunteers Calum and Abbie were also recognised for their contribution as youth coaches, helping support younger players at training sessions and matches. The club also thanked Gregor Ross from Active Schools Highland Perthshire for his continued support in helping develop football opportunities for young people across local schools.
Players’ Player of the Year Awards
2017s Harry Laing 2016s Ivan Curic 2015s Arran Marshall 2014s (7-a-side) Robert
Breadalbane & Strathtay Youth FC continues to grow as one of the largest youth sports organisations in the area, providing opportunities for boys and girls of all abilities to develop their football skills while enjoying the social and health benefits of sport. Club representatives paid tribute to the dedication of volunteer coaches, committee members and parents whose commitment makes the programme possible. With the new season underway, the club will also be running Easter Football Camps for local children, taking place Monday, 6 April to Friday, 10 April at Home Street Park, Aberfeldy, and Monday, 13 April to Friday, 17 April at Pitlochry Recreation Ground.
Lambing Season
With lambing season here, Police Scotland would like to remind dog walkers of their responsibilities with regard to keeping their pets on a lead when they are near sheep. Dog owners have a clear responsibility to ensure their pets are under control and this is made clear in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, especially when there are pregnant ewes and young lambs in the fields. If your pets chase or worry sheep, you are likely to get prosecuted and you could lose your dog. Worrying is defined as attacking livestock, chasing livestock in such a way that it may be reasonable to expect the dog to cause injury or suffering to livestock as well as abortion in female animals, and being at large (not under close control or on a lead) in a field or enclosure where there are sheep. Chasing by dogs can do serious damage to livestock, even if the dog doesn’t catch them. The stress of chasing/worrying by dogs can cause animals to die and pregnant stock to miscarry. Livestock fleeing from dogs are often killed or seriously injured by their panicked attempts to escape, often causing significant collateral damage to fences and field boundaries in the process. In some circumstances farmers are legally entitled to shoot dogs if they are endangering their sheep. Therefore it is vital that you keep your dog on the lead around livestock. If anyone witnesses an incident of livestock worrying contact Police Scotland on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
The Arts Society Tayside - Our lecture season at Birnam Arts continues and on March 9 we learned about The Secrets of Ancient Doors from James Wright. On Monday, 13 April, Paul Roberts talks to us on Ancient Faces, Flinders Petrie and the Mummy Portraits of Ancient Egypt, and on Monday, 11 May, Ian Keable speaks on Charles Dickens, Conjurer. On Monday, 8 June, Emma Johnson concludes our main lecture season for 2025-6 with Comedy Classical: How Composers Make Us Laugh. We are in the process of developing our summer visits programme, with reservations now being taken for our Wednesday, 20 May coach visit to Arniston House and Rosslyn Chapel. Other house and garden visits are being planned; details will follow. For more information, please contact tastvisits@gmail. com or pick up the information sheet at our next Birnam Arts lecture. Our programme for 2026-7 is under preparation and will include a special interest day on silver from well-known Antiques Roadshow silver expert Gordon Foster in October. The Arts Society Tayside is a not-forprofit, volunteer-run society, dedicated to providing its members with enjoyable and approachable experiences in the arts, and supporting local good causes related to art. Each year we offer our 300 members ten absorbing and accessible morning or afternoon lectures on the second Monday of the month at Birnam Arts on a wide variety of topics, as well as a range of house, garden and gallery visits and interesting add-on days and lectures. For those unable to make the journey to Birnam, we are now offering live Zoom links to our lectures so you can watch from your own home if you wish. Please visit our website to see the full programme: theartssocietytayside.org.uk. You can join us for the balance of our 2025/26 season for a reduced membership of £45, which includes admission to the remaining lectures and gives access to our other lecture and visit programmes. Come and join us! You can contact us at tastmembership@ gmail.com or 01350 724232.
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Blair Castle & Gardens
Open Monday to Sunday, 10am - 5pm.
(Last entry to the castle 3:45pm)
Take a self-guided tour of Blair Castle & Gardens and experience 30 beautifully preserved rooms, before strolling through the stunning 9-acre walled garden.
Exciting new exhibitions
Explore A Costume Drama, bringing together original historic costumes from the castle’s attics alongside iconic pieces from film and television. Plus, don’t miss a special commemorative display honouring geologist James Hutton; a curated selection of sculptures, drawings and artefacts marking his tercentenary.
Book your tickets online today.
What’s on
Easter Ranger Events
Easter Half Term
Enjoy action-packed activities, crafts, and walks with Ranger Julia
Easter Sunday Fun Day 5th April
Easter activities including an egg hunt and tractor rides
Spring Foraging 23rd and 24th May
Learn the art of foraging at Blair Castle & Gardens
Atholl Highlanders Parade & Gathering
23rd and 24th May
Annual Atholl Highlanders Parade and Highland Games
PERTHSHIRE’S HIDDEN GEM, THYME DELI IS LOVED BY LOCALS & DELIGHTS VISITORS.
Thyme Deli is a speciality grocer offering a wide range of Scottish and local farm produce, as well as international favourites.
We also provide unique foodie gifts, hampers, a huge selection of cheese and charcuterie, and ideas for simple suppers - we’ve got you covered!
FARM TOURS at
COME AND MEET OUR RARE-BREED SHEEP, SHETLAND CATTLE, HIGHLAND PONIES, AN ASSORTMENT OF CHICKENS, GEESE & DUCKS!
Farm Tours & Feed Round takes place at 10 am on Fridays and Saturdays and lasts about an hour. Book your tickets by 4 pm the day before your required tour.
There is a maximum of eight spaces available per farm tour. To avoid disappointment, book your space ONLINE
We are situated just outside Aberfeldy on the Crieff Road, in an elevated position that provides amazing views over the Tay Valley.
Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries - Pitlochry Library
Bookbug session - Held every Thursday from 9.15 am to 9.45 am. Join us for songs, stories and rhymes for under-fives. Pre-booking for each session is essential. Please contact the library to book a place.
Community knitting group - Meets every Thursday from 11 am to 12.45 pm. Whether you already knit or would like to learn, come along to our weekly group. Everything you need to get started is provided.
Books on Wheels - For individuals who cannot get out and about to visit the library, including books in large print and audio formats. Please contact the library for further information.
Recycling - All libraries accept used stamps and batteries for recycling.
Opening hours - Monday: Closed; Tuesday: Closed; Wednesday: 12 pm to 4 pm; Thursday: 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 7 pm; Friday: Closed; Saturday: 9.30 am to 12.30 pm; Sunday: Closed
Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries - Birnam Library
From North or South: From the A9 take the Ballinluig junction. Follow the A827 to Aberfeldy. Drive into Aberfeldy, continue through the Town Square and on to a junction with traffic lights, turn left on to the Crieff Road A826. Keep going 2.5 miles, we are on the right.
Bookbug sessions - Held every Thursday from 10.30 am to 11 am. Join us for songs, stories and rhymes for under-fives. Pre-booking for each session is essential. Please contact the library to book a place. Books on Wheels - Please contact the library for further information.
Opening hours - Monday: Closed; Tuesday: Closed; Wednesday: Closed; Thursday: 5 pm to 7 pm; Friday: 12 pm to 5 pm; Saturday: 9.30 am to 12 pm; Sunday: Closed Birnam Library, Station Road, Birnam, Dunkeld PH8 0DS; 01738 459709; birnamlibrary@culturepk.org.uk
Crieff Road, Aberfeldy, Perthshire, PH15 2EL
The Field Dunkeld & Birnam
The Field Needs You! This is the time when it all happens up at the Field. The ground to be prepared, compost spread, tatties and onion sets planted, seeds sown, seedlings planted out, crop protection structures built and membranes laid. It doesn’t matter if you have no experience of these tasks, you will soon pick them up and will have plenty of help and guidance as we all throw ourselves into the spring tasks on which the next 11 months’ harvest depends. You will smell the earth warming, see buds, blossom and shoots appearing and colour coming back to the trees. There is an air of excitement when we experience the first really warm days and discard fleeces and jackets whilst working. Thursday and Saturday mornings are our work days but at this time of year some of us may be up there at any time in order to make vital progress and get everything planted.
There are several types of volunteers and activities from which to choose the Busy Bees, the Sowing Machines, the Persistent Planters, the Picky Pickers, The Slash and Burn Mob, Heavy Lifters, Odd Jobbers, Pottering Potters, Weary Weeders, Combined Harvesters or if you must the Coffee Brewers or Idle Chatterers. At the end of the day they all contribute to getting the job done and having a convivial time up at the Field.
As we are dedicated to the common ownership of the means of production and the most equitable distribution of the fruits and vegetables of our labours, you will be encouraged to take home produce according to your or your family’s needs. The rest goes on the stall at the gate or food share until the village stalls open in July. Refreshments are served every day with our Coffee and cakes receiving high praise. Come up and see us sometime!
We’re on the lookout for Care Assistants and a Chef.
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Want to know more? We’d love to hear from you.
The Birks is more than a cinema! We strive to create memorable experiences that bring the community together. Our cinema and café are open five days a week (Thursday to Monday), and our café welcomes you six days a week (Wednesday to Monday). Pop in for a cuppa! Every week, we have regular classes and groups, which are free (donations welcome).
On Monday mornings, we host a relaxed Chair-Based Exercise session followed by Knit & Knatter in the afternoon, and Chess Club in the evening. Why not join our Book Club? Meets every second Monday of the month at 7.30 pm, choose books and chat about great reads in a relaxed setting with fellow book lovers. Have an interest in photography? Want to make new friends? Come along to Highland Perthshire Photography Group meetings on the last Monday of each month at 7 pm and join them as they discuss walks, talks and local outings. Take your photography to the next level! Beginners and students are all welcome!
Our Environmental film of the month will be The Shepherd and the Bear on Monday, 27 April, at 7.30 pm. Exploring a conflict provoked by the reintroduction of brown bears in the midst of a traditional shepherding community set in the majestic French Pyrenees. An ageing shepherd struggles to find a successor as bears prey on his flock, and a teenage boy becomes obsessed with tracking the bears.
On Thursday afternoons, people are invited to gather upstairs with their own craft and art projects for Craic N’ Craft - crafting and chatting! Our Lego Coding Club, for chil-
dren with additional support needs, meets after school and in the evening, and our much-loved Acoustic Music Night, where musicians of all levels come together to play a mix of traditional and favourite tunes. You are also welcome to sing along, tap your foot to the beat, or just sit back and enjoy the music!
We have a new exciting weekly stories group for older residents of the area, Feldy Folk Tales, on Fridays from 2 pm. Writer and local resident Lesley Wilson introduces the project by sharing stories created with older residents across Scotland over the past ten years. A mixture of fact and fiction, past, present and future. Working in a creative and collaborative way, Lesley supports people to share their stories and have them truly heard.
Board Games Night is held every Friday night with a variety of games to choose from. All welcome.
Get ready to put your knowledge to the test with our Quiz Nights! On Friday, 3 April, at 7.30 pm, gather your friends and family for a fun-filled evening and a chance to win. And make sure to add a bowl of nachos to your table to share!
Our popular Gaelic Café will be a conversation-only session on Saturday, 4 April, 10.15 am. If you are interested in Gaelic culture, already speak Gaelic or are just learning, join our friendly group to chat or just listen to these inspiring and fascinating sessions!
Sunday, 5 April, 3.30 pm is our next Book and Film Blethers. This month, we are screening The Tasters, based on the award-winning, bestselling book At the Wolf’s Table by Rosella Postorino. The film reconstructs the true story of the women coerced into being food tasters for Adolf Hitler towards the end of World War II.
Heartland Film Society - On Sunday, 19 April, at 6.30 pm, we will be screening The Phoenician Scheme. The story of a family and a family business. Wealthy businessman Zsa-zsa Korda appoints his only daughter, a nun, as sole heir to his estate. As Korda embarks on a new enterprise, they soon become the target of scheming tycoons, foreign terrorists and determined assassins.
Special Events
Friday, 10 April - 7 pm. Project Hail Mary + David Woods Talk. Science teacher Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling) wakes up on a spaceship light years from home with no recollection of who he is or how he got there. As his memory returns, he begins to uncover his mission: solve the riddle of the mysterious substance causing the sun to die out. He must call on his scientific knowledge and unorthodox ideas to save everything on Earth from extinction… but an unexpected friendship means he may not have to do it alone.
Before the screening, join us for a talk by David Woods, an author and researcher on the Apollo program, based in Central Scotland. He has written four books, including the highly regarded How Apollo Flew to the Moon.
Thursday, 16 April - 7 pm. National Theatre
Live: All My Sons Bryan Cranston and Marianne Jean-Baptiste feature in a five-star, triumphantly acclaimed new production of Arthur Miller’s classic play, from visionary director Ivo Van Hove. One family, the heart of the American dream. When wartime delivers profits for Joe, it comes at a price when his partner is charged with criminal manufacturing deals, and his eldest son goes missing in action. Will peacetime bring peace of mind, or will he be confronted by the consequences of his actions?
Saturday, 18 April - 11 am. Where The Wild Things Are. An adaptation of Maurice Sendak’s classic children’s story, where Max, a disobedient little boy sent to bed without his supper, creates his own world. A forest inhabited by ferocious wild creatures who crown Max as their ruler. This film is generously sponsored by Healthiest Town Aberfeldy.
Saturday, 18 April - 7.30 pm. Grow Your Own. Refugee Kung Sang (Benedict Wong) and his family are given a plot at a Merseyside allotment to help with his rehabilitation and integration into British society. Some of the longstanding residents take umbrage, but eventually rapprochement is found; initially over the joys of gardening, but then to fight the common cause of an invading mobile phone company. Generously sponsored by Healthiest Town Aberfeldy.
Tuesday, 21 April - 6.45 pm. The Royal Opera: The Magic Flute. Princess Pamina has been captured. Her mother, the Queen of the Night, tasks the young Prince Tamino with her daughter’s rescue. But when Tamino and his friend, Papageno, embark on their adventure, they soon learn that when it comes to the quest for love, nothing is as it really seems.
Friday, 24 April - 6 pm. Tapas Night Get ready for a flavour fiesta at The Birks Café. Join us for an unforgettable Tapas Night at The Birks Café, curated by our fantastic (and originally Portuguese!) Café Manager, Cristina, featuring the finest deli selections from the local gem, Thyme Deli Bistro (Errichel). Indulge in traditional tapas with options to choose either meaty or veggie.
Sunday, 26 April - 1 pm. Fèis Thatha. Held in our Community Creative Learning Space in The Birks Cinema, the Sunday Session offers you the chance to play, learn and share traditional music in a relaxed, fun setting. The sessions are free to attend and led by two fantastic musicians, so come along with your instrument, have a coffee and join in with the tunes (or just sit and listen). No session experience required, and all levels and instruments welcome!
Volunteering Opportunities - Bring your love of community, people and cinema to life by volunteering with us. There are loads of ways to get involved - you can do as little or as much, as often as you like! Whether you have two hours or two days free, we would welcome your energy, time and support.
Volunteers play a vital and valued part in the everyday life of your community hub. If you would like to know more, email volunteers@birkscinema.co.uk.
J. W. LANG PAINTER &
• Interior and Exterior
• Kitchens and Bathrooms Tiled
• Floors Tiled
• Coving & Cornices
• No job too large or small
• Free Estimates See our website at www.jwlang.co.uk
We are open Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm
11 Kenmore street, Aberfeldy 01887 829636 also Blairgowrie 01250
IN ABERFELDY
Library of
Innerpeffray by Crieff
A warm welcome awaits you at the Library of Innerpeffray, where our team of visitor guides can help you turn the pages of our historic collection and be enveloped in tales of past times. Our 2026 exhibition, ‘Signs of the Times’, explores the myriad uses of signs and symbols within the books of our collection. From books on mysterious subjects such as heraldry, emblems and allegory, to the history of printers’ marks and fine decorative bindings, this exhibition is a real visual delight.
Dates for your Diary
WHERE LEGS AND FEET MATTER
WHERE LEGS AND FEET MATTER
GREGOR McCOSHIM FCPodS MChS
HCPC REGISTERED
ROUTINE CHIROPODY
Saturday, 30 and Sunday, 31 May - Exploring the Frozen South. Talk and mini exhibition about the life and exploits of polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Situated in Innerpeffray schoolroom, this exhibition affords the opportunity to view maps and texts from one of the Library’s most recent acquisitions - a pristine copy of ‘Heart of the Antarctic’. On Saturday afternoon, we are delighted to welcome Roderick Wordie - grandson of James Wordie, geologist with Shackleton’s ‘Endurance’ expedition - to give an illustrated talk inspired by extracts from his grandfather’s log. Tickets for the talk will be £12 and will be available to book online. The exhibition will be free to view Saturday 10 am to 1 pm, and Sunday 2 pm to 5 pm.
GREGOR McCOSHIM FCPodS MChS
WALKING/RUNNING INJURIES
ORTHOTIC/INSOLE MANUFACTURER
Wednesday, 1 July - The Three Inch Fools: King Arthur and the Holy Fail. 7 pm. The everpopular Three Inch Fools outdoor theatre company are back once more at Innerpeffray. In a land of daring quests, dashing knights, and endless jousting, there lived a would-be hero - waiting in the wings - who went by the name of Arthur. Saddle up - things are about to get legendary! Early bird tickets available online now - strictly limited in number and available until the end of April.
Friday, 7 August to Saturday, 8 August - Innerpeffray Summer Fayre. Friday and Saturday 10 am to 4 pm. Gladden your heart with a browse of our summer fayre in the schoolroom, with unique gifts from the Library alongside carefully curated stalls from local artists and makers. Free entry, refreshments available.
LEG/FOOT HEALTH ASSESSMENT
ORTHOTIC/INSOLE MANUFACTURER
LEG/FOOT HEALTH ASSESSMENT
OFFIZONE, KENMORE STREET, ABERFELDY, PH15 2BL
TEL: 07932 725211
206 HIGH STREET, AUCHTERARDER, PH3 1AF
EMAIL: grm@mccoshim.plus.com
TEL: 07932 725211
These are just a few of the events we have lined up for the season ahead - look out for our notices every month in The Quair to find out about more talks, concerts, fairs, workshops, our annual festival and a special exhibition that we have planned. The Friends of Innerpeffray Library will also have their annual programme of events, which will be announced here.
Call for Volunteers - Our friendly volunteer team are crucial to the running of the Library of Innerpeffray. Whether you would like to be a visitor guide, join the gardening team, do behind-the-scenes admin or help out with our programme of events, we’d love to hear from you. Email info@innerpeffraylibrary.co.uk or call the number below.
EMAIL: grm@mccoshim.plus.com
www.grmpodiatry.co.uk
From March to October, the Library’s regular opening hours are Wednesday to Saturday 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday 2 pm to 5 pm. Contact us on 01764 652819 or visit our website at www.innerpeffraylibrary.co.uk for more details and for ticket booking.
Horizon Lunch Club, Aberfeldy
www.grmpodiatry.co.uk
On a plate
Horizon Lunch Club, unique in Highland Perthshire, is about to celebrate twenty years offering hearty meals to our senior citizens. From our beginning, accommodated and gathering support at Dalweem, we moved to the Town Hall in 2011 providing a 3-course lunch on Tuesday and Wednesday, 12 pm to 1.30 pm.
More than a lunch service, Horizon has always sought to promote a caring, safe place
where friendships, experiences and memories are shared and enjoyed. And any excuse for celebration - birthday, local event or wider, festive occasion.
Our improved, extended accommodation allows for the provision of 24 places. Led by Anne Duff, the team of volunteers are on hand offering a choice of menu, cooked and prepared on site. After lunch, when our customers have departed either by their own transport or our taxi service, any concerns about individuals may result in us
seeking agreed assistance from other local organisations - simple issues of care. We delight in seeing many regular customers, quick to share the latest gossip, enjoy the regular Bingo and frequent Raffle draw.
There’s always room at the table for those wishing to extend friendships. Please contact Anne on 07789 977037 for more information. We look forward to seeing you.
The Scottish Crannog Centre
The Crannog is hatching this easter in Kenmore Spring is bringing new life and activity to the Scottish Crannog Centre on Loch Tay, with an Easter collaboration in Ken-
more, new faces on the team, and exciting progress on the Crannog build.
On Sunday, 5 April, the Crannog Centre will be taking part in Kenmore’s Family Easter Fun day, with activities happening
both in the village and at the Crannog itself. While events in Kenmore include puppet and bead activities, a treasure trail and refreshments in the Sports Pavilion, visitors can also head along to the Crannog between 10 am and 5 pm for its special Crannog is Hatching event on Saturday, 4 and Sunday, 5 April. The Crannog activities will feature bird-themed crafts and handson experiences for families, celebrating the arrival of spring.
Visitors will also be able to see the exciting progress being made on the Crannog build. Staff and volunteers have been working hard throughout the winter. Over the next couple of months, the build is really going to take shape as they start to work on the walls and roof. Keep your eyes peeled for the Crannog completion date.
There are also new treats waiting in the café, which has recently launched a refreshed menu including the welcome addition of chilli nachos. Whether you’re warming up after a Lochside walk or taking a break between activities, the café offers a relaxed spot to refuel.
Meanwhile, work continues across the site. The forge is getting a new experimental haircut with a straw hat to keep metalworkers dry during the spring showers, complementing the older Taymouth Castle golf course. The Crannog has also welcomed a new member of the team. NPA trainee Cat has joined and has begun her National Progression Award in Green Woodworking, working with coppice materials and helping plant willow in the centre’s training willow coppice at Dalerb.
Recently the centre was also delighted to welcome old friends from RIELA, visiting with Professor Alison Phipps from the University of Glasgow, who were given a tour of the site and the progress on the crannog build. With Easter celebrations bringing families to Kenmore, it’s the perfect time to stop by and see the Crannog Construction.
Top2Toe
Comrie & St Fillans Music Circle
Manicures & Pedicures OPI and Lacquer Lash
Lift - A natural lash treatment designed to lift and enhance the natural lashes and improve the appearance of the eye area.
Meetings are held at the Rural Hall Comrie, meeting between 12 pm and 12.30 pm on a Tuesday (But never the second Tuesday in the month) which is then followed by a light lunch and the subject for the day. Regardless of the programme of the day we are finished at no later than 4 pm. We return on Tuesday, 22 September (please put this date in your diary now) with a further 10 programmes ending on Tuesday, 15 December
Sessions will take place on 22 September and 29 September; 6 October, 20 October and 27 October; 3 November, 17 November and 24 November; and 1 December and 15 December.
A full programme for the autumn is being finalised regarding speakers and subjects but I know that it is going to be an excellent set of events. Membership is open to both male and female. We are a friendly club and all are welcome. New members are more than welcome. Please come along and give us a try. For further information please contact Malcolm Gregory on 01764 670493 or 07752 498187.
PADS - PADS (Perthshire Abandoned Dogs Society) is a well-loved, long established local dog rescue charity with kennels at Forteviot, a few miles south-west of Perth. See www.padsdogrescue.com for further information.
Kinetic Chain Release can ease symptoms and bring rapid, lasting relief from many chronic conditions.
Suitable for all ages.
Hayley Carruthers
KCR Practitioner
T: 07775668302
E: b2b@matchett.co.uk back2balancepitlochry
Comrie & St Fillans Music Circle
PerthFect Blinds
Sunday Sessions
Aberfeldy Drama Club Thrift Shop 2026 - Aberfeldy Drama Club Thrift Shop continues to support a wide range of local groups throughout the year. Each Sunday the shop allocates its takings to a different community organisation, helping to sustain the many clubs, charities and initiatives that contribute so much to life in the Upper Tay area. The forthcoming rota is as follows - Sunday, 29 March Bring Back the Smile to Nepal; Sunday, 5 April Christmas Lights; Sunday, 12 April Heartland Film Society; Sunday, 19 April Kinloch Primary School; Sunday, 26 April Highland Perthshire Riding Club; Sunday, 3 May Feldy in Flower; Sunday, 10 May Heart of Scotland Herb Society; Sunday, 17 May Aberfeldy Bowling Club; Sunday, 24 May Kenmore in Bloom; Sunday, 31 May Air Ambulance; Sunday, 7 June NT Feldy Crew; Sunday, 14 June Breadalbane Reading Rooms; Sunday, 21 June Breadalbane Canoe Club; Sunday, 28 June Maclean Hall, Fearnan; Sunday, 5 July Aberfeldy Tennis Club; Sunday, 12 July Loch Tay Hikers; Sunday, 19 July Grandtully Primary School; Sunday, 26 July Kenmore Primary School; Sunday, 2 August Weem Church; Sunday, 9 August Camserney Hall; Sunday, 16 August Museum Group; Sunday, 23 August Aberfeldy Rugby Club; Sunday, 30 August Auto Immune Diseases Support Group; Sunday, 6 September Fortingall Roots; Sunday, 13 September St Andrew’s Church, Strathtay; Sunday, 20 September Breadalbane Strathtay Youth FC; Sunday, 27 September Rotary; Sunday, 4 October The Eating Disorder Recovery Unit; Sunday, 11 October The Birks Cinema Trust; Sunday, 18 October Aberfeldy Farmers Market; Sunday, 25 October St Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Strathtay; Sunday, 1 November Breadalbane Community Larder; Sunday, 8 November Rescue Donkeys; Sunday, 15 November Amulree Village Hall; Sunday, 22 November Gamekeepers Welfare Trust; Sunday, 29 November Aberfeldy Scouts; Sunday, 6 December Community Choir; Sunday, 13 December Men’s Shed. Please contact Hazel Kennedy on tomvale7@gmail.com for any queries.
Aberfeldy Probus Club - At the March meeting of the Club, our speaker after lunch was Zuleika Brett who is the Director of Development at Pitlochry Festival Theatre which is celebrating its 75th Anniversary this year. Zuleika took as her subject - Pitlochry Festival Theatre: Sustaining the future of the Theatre in the Hills through its 75th year and beyond. She gave us an overview of the Theatre which is a major employer in this area with around 60-70 full-time staff as well as 80 or so actors during the season supported by 40 technical staff.
There have been changes to the programming which include shows that may transfer to the West End or even to Broadway after the production airs at Pitlochry. This is seen as an exciting time for the theatre. Look out for information about the events planned for this season including exhibitions of 25 years of costumes which is on at the moment and a ‘Fringe-like’ programme and events in Pitlochry itself.
Next month, we are meeting on Wednesday, 8 April when our speaker is Ms Jean Oudney talking about The Ecology and History of Beavers in Scotland. If you would like to try the Probus Club, why not come along to one of our meetings. Contact the Secretary, Elaine Melrose on 07345 514944.
Pitlochry Litter Action Group (part of Pitlochry in Bloom) - It would be nice for all of the visitors who come to Pitlochry and also for residents if the streets and green spaces are kept clean. If you agree that this is important, do join our team of litter pickers. All equipment is provided, including gloves, black bags and grabbers. We do try to separate recyclable waste from the other litter. Litter picks take place on the second Tuesday of the month and we meet at 10 am in the Recreation Ground car park.
Dates for litter picks in 2026 are: Tuesday, 14 April, Tuesday, 12 May, Tuesday, 9 June, Tuesday, 14 July, Tuesday, 11 August, Tuesday, 8 September, Tuesday, 13 October, Tuesday, 10 November and Tuesday, 8 December. For further information, contact Catherine Holmes (c.p.holmes47@btinternet.com); 01796 473400.
Vale of Atholl Pipe Band
Highland Night
The Highland night is held in the Recreation Ground, Pitlochry every Monday night between 25th May 2026 and the 7th September 2026. If it is wet, the event is held in Pitlochry Town Hall.
Gates open at the Recreation Ground at 7pm.
Drive In - Free Parking in the Field
Featuring: Pipe Band, Scottish Music and Songs, Highland and Scottish Country Dancing
Admission Prices: Adult £10, Child £3
Sam Decorating Services
Mobile: 07737 792402
Email: sammcrobbie53@gmail.com
Birnam Arts: Concerts & Events
• Café • shop • Gallery • Beatrix potter Station Road, Birnam PH8 0DS - 01350 727674. Tickets and full details online at www.birnamarts.com
Beatrix Potter Garden Trail - Exciting plans are underway for a magical new Beatrix Potter Garden Trail! Funded by the Scottish Government and created with Brilliant Trails, the project will bring Potter’s characters to life with new wooden sculptures, interpretation panels, and interactive elements in the beloved garden. The free trail will include an optional activity book for children, enhancing a cherished local asset for families and visitors.
We welcome community input as we develop the designs. To learn more, ask questions or offer support, please contact Julia Harriman at julia@birnamarts.com.
Continues to Sunday 3 May - 10 am to 5 pm daily. Fragile: Moths, Life Systems & Us exhibition. Free. Presenting the findings of artist Jan Hendry’s project investigating moth species across Scotland.
Thursday, 2 April - 8 pm to 10 pm. Heron Valley. £18* Heron Valley is a dynamic folk band hailing from Scotland, known for their energetic performances and captivating blend of traditional and folk music with contemporary influences.
Wednesday, 8 April - 7.30 pm to 10 pm. Wayward Jane & Harry Bird. £18*. Toetapping tunes, soulful songs, and irresistible harmonies. A fresh, transatlantic twist to American folk and Old-Time music. Fiddle, banjo, double bass, and close harmonies collide in a joyous, high-energy live show that’s packed with heart.
Tuesday, 14 April - 2 pm. Warm Spaces: Free Film. Moulin Rouge. Complimentary light lunch at 1 pm for the first 15 people to arrive. No booking required.
Saturday, 18 April - 11 am to 2 pm. Mad Bad Lab: Theatre Workshop - Fundraising Event for the Birnam Book Festival. A theatre-based workshop that provides an opportunity to move, to play, and to make a space for radical creativity and self-expression without judgement. See BA website for Booking Link.
Saturday, 18 April - 7 pm to 9 pm. An Evening with Elizabeth Kostova. £12-£18*. Best-selling author of The Historian, The Swan Thieves, and The Shadow Land. Elizabeth is also Dunkeld and Birnam writer in residence. £35/£40*.
Saturday, 25 April - 10.30 am to 12.30 pm. The Colours of Moths Workshop. £25* An introduction to making watercolour paint from earth pigments, as used by Jan for her current Moths exhibition.
Saturday, 25 April - 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm. Eduardo Martín & Ahmed Dickinson. £18/£6 U26* Cuba’s international acclaimed guitar duo with their latest album The Bridge, blending classical, rock and Cuban folk traditions, with the infectious rhythms of the Caribbean. See website for workshops and more - birnamarts.com / 01350 727674 *Denotes Booking Fee
Crieff & Strathearn Drovers’ Tryst Walking Festival
The dates for this year’s walks are Friday, 15 May to Monday, 18 May 2026. Already around 20 walks have been identified with at least half being the popular linear walks, made possible by the continued and appreciated support of minibuses from PKC. The access to minibuses allows the inclusion of walks that might otherwise be difficult to coordinate, with the start point and finish being miles apart. Linear walks next May include Bridge of Orchy to Pubil along Loch Lyon and the old Drovers’ route from Kirkmichael in Strathardle to Ballinluig, south of Pitlochry as well as along Glen Almond from Newton Bridge to Loch Tay. Details of the walks are on the Tryst’s website (www.droverstryst.com)
Useful Numbers Pitlochry & District
Pitlochry Community Hospital 01796 472052
infinity Blu Dental Practice 01796 470001
Pitlochry Tourist Information 01796 472215
Heartland Vet Services 01796 472201
Live Active Atholl 01796 473866
Pitlochry Theatre 01796 484626
Heartland Hearing 01796 473334
Atholl Eyecare 01796 516085
Useful Numbers Dunkeld & Birnam
infinity Blu Dental Practice 01350 729198
Mr Peter Greig PS, BDS 01350 728826
Birnam Arts 01350 727674
The Dunkeld Vet 01350 729270
Useful Numbers Aberfeldy area
Anderson Dentistry 01887 820441
Aberfeldy Optician 01887 829756
Locus Centre 01887 829187
Heartland Vet Services 01887 820771
Highland PerthshireSchools
Breadlabane Academy Reception 01887 822300
www.breadalbane.pkc.sch.uk/BA/ Breadalbane Community Campus 01887 822400
www.breadalbane.pkc.sch.uk/BCC/
Pitlochry School 01796 474666
Pitlochry School absence line 01796 474699
Royal School of Dunkeld 01738 454470
www.royaldunkeld.pkc.sch.uk
Grandtully Primary 01887 822499
Logierait Primary 01796 474646
Blair Atholl Primary 01887 822491
Glenlyon Primary 01887 822477
Highland Perthshire Politicians
MSP - Perthshire North
Election Thursday, 7 May 2026
MP - Angus and Perthshire Glens
Dave Doogan MP 01307 804 185
Local Councillors - Highland Ward
Xander McDade 01738 475000
Mike Williamson 07810 814495
John Duff 07826 908542
Local Councillors - Strathtay Ward
Grant Laing 01738 475023
Claire McLaren 01738 475000
Ian James 01738 475022
Emergency Contact List, Aberfeldy Community Resilience Group Coordinators
The following contacts can help co-ordinate a community response if a situation warrants this within Aberfeldy. Please note that individuals will be available or accessible at different times, and you may have to move on to the next number if contact cannot be established. If the situation is serious, please contact the emergency services.
Name: Victor Clements (Chair, Aberfeldy Community Council) 24hr telephone contact: 01887 829361 or 07787 520987 Email: victor@nativewoods.co.uk
Name: Val Ferguson (Tayside Waders) 24hr telephone contact: Tel 01887 829529 or mobile 07715 040470. Email: valferguson@ btopenworld.com
For up to date information on services and care provided at Pitlochry Community Hospital please see the NHS Tayside website www.nhstayside.scot.nhs.uk/GoingToHospital/OurPremisesA-Z/PitlochryCommunityHospital/index.htm
Aberfeldy & Kinloch
Rannoch Medical Practice
Aberfeldy Health Centre
Other Useful Numbers
NHS 24 111
Police Scotland 101
Flying Smiles Mobile
Dental Hygienist 07812 055724
Perth Citizen’s Advice 0808 196 9440
Kenmore primary 01887 822430 Bankfoot
Pitlochry Recycling Centre
Bridge Road
Thursday to Monday
9am - 4pm
Last entry 3.45pm
Name : John Steele (Locus Breadalbane) 24hr telephone contact 01887 822724 or 07852 218681. E: enquiries@locuscentre.org
Pitlochry Baptist Church
WA (welcome all) Soup Lunch Soup served from 12 noon every Friday during the winter months.
Tigh an Daraich, Taybridge Road
Aberfeldy, PH15 2BH Tel: 01887 820366
Repeat Prescriptions: 01887 829743
tay.aberfeldyprescriptions@nhs.scot
Opening Hours - 8 am - 6 pm, Mon to Fri
Check hours for bank and public holidays
Aberfeldy & Kinloch
Rannoch Medical Practice
10 am -
Registrar of Births, Deaths & Marriages by appointment only 01887 822459
Kinloch Rannoch, pH16 5pR Tel: 01882 632216
Appointments only Monday - Friday
9 am-10.15 am, 2 pm - 2.45 pm and 4 pm - 5.30 pm For appointments phone reception
www.aberfeldyandrannochsurgery.co.uk
Housing & Community Safety
pitlochry Area Office
26/28 Atholl Road, pitlochry, pH16 5Bx
Opening hours are as follows: Mon 8.45 am - 12.30 pm and 1.30 pm - 5 pm, Tues 8.45 am - 12.30 pm and 1.30 pm - 5 pm Wed
Closed, Thurs Closed, Fri 8.45 am - 12.30 pm and 1.30 pm - 5 pm. Appointments can be made with us by calling us on 01738 476000 (option 2).
Registration of Births, Deaths and Marriages - Tel: (01796) 474645 Mon to Fri: by appointment
This Council office will not open until 11 am on the first Thursday of every month.
See Current Library opening times at www.culturepk.org.uk/libraries/
perth and Kinross Council
Council Main Reception 01738 475000 Perth & Kinross Childcare Information Service 0845 601 4477
The Atholl & Breadalbane Quair
is published by SCOT ACTIVE LTD
with a registered office address of 26/30 Bonnethill Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5BS Company Number SC854228 tel/text: 07436 793785
e: atholl@thequair.com
Advertising Information
Please note that all advertisements carried by The Atholl & Breadalbane Quair are done so with the understanding that any claims, statements or information given are the sole responsibility of the advertiser in question. We cannot be held liable for any commercial or consumer disputes, problems or difficulties arising from their workmanship or services.
Editorial and Event Information
All of our listed events and adverts are published in good faith. However, for a variety of reasons, things can sometimes change and inadvertent mistakes can be made. Please therefore always check times and venues of events listed, in both editorial and adverts in The Atholl & Breadalbane Quair independently before going. We cannot be held liable for any mistakes, typographical or otherwise, by ourselves or changes made by Event Organisers. This edition of The Atholl & Breadalbane Quair was sent for print on Sat, 14 March 2026.
Pitlochry Hospital Car Service - An independently run voluntary service here to help those who do not have access to transport to get to hospital appointments in Perth and Dundee. Whether it is a routine appointment or something more serious we are committed to getting you there. If you would like our assistance, please contact us on 07767 547892 or email pitlochryhospitalcars@gmail.com. There is a small charge to cover fuel.
Humanos Aid International - Our charity has a complete range of stationery, supplied by Sklep Papierniczy based in Poland. With over 60 items, including super glue, bubble wrap, all types of envelopes, printing paper and more, the range will be extended, once new supplies arrive. The post office in Ballinluig sells the full range of stationery and other items for our charity. The post office in Ballinluig has the following opening hours; Monday/ Thursday/ Friday 9 am - 12 pm & 1 pm - 5.30 pm closed for lunch 12 pm -1 pm. Humanos Aid International Registered Scottish charity SC042807
Front Cover Picture
Our great thanks to Olivia Ingleby for sending us in this month’s front cover image. Please see page 18 for more. If you have something suitable you would like us to consider for the front cover of The Quair then please feel free to send it to us at atholl@thequair.com stating your name and providing a short narrative about the photo. Please note that by sending your photo you are also agreeing to let us use this for any Quair activity.
You can reach Perth CAB for Advice on: FREEPhone : 0808 196 9440 10am - 3pm Mon to Fri (Free from both landlines and mobiles)
Email: advice@perthcab.org.uk
Webchat: www.perthcab.org.uk (10am - 1pm Mon to Fri)
NHS 24 - NHS 24 is a confidential out of hours telephone health advice and information service available across Scotland. If you or someone you care for is unwell and you feel that it can’t wait until your GP surgery re-opens then you can call NHS 24 on 111. Where clinically appropriate a GP home visit or an ambulance may be arranged for you. In a life threatening situation you should dial 999.
Davidsons Chemist, Bank St, Aberfeldy 01887 820324
Perth Citizens Advice Bureau
What is a Quair? (noun) (1) A quire; a book. The Kingis Quhair, James I. (of Scotland). (2) A set of twentyfour sheets of paper of the same size and stock; one twentieth of a ream. (3) A collection of leaves of parchment or paper, folded one within the other, in a manuscript or book. (Middle English quayer, four double sheets of paper, from Old French quaer, from Vulgar Latin *quaternus, from Latin quatern, set of four, four each, from quater, four times.
The Kingis Quhair is a fifteenth-century poem attributed to James I of Scotland. It is a semi-autobiographical work, describing the King’s capture by the English in 1406 on his way to France and his subsequent imprisonment by Henry IV of England and his successors Henry V and Henry VI. RSABI (previously The Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution) - RSABI is a unique Scottish charity with roots going back to 1897. To learn a little more about how RSABI operates, please see the website at www.rsabi.org.uk
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, 7 April between 10 am and 12 noon at the Pitlochry Community Hospital.
Hearing Aid Drop-in Clinic at Aberfeldy & Kinloch Rannoch Medical Practice
Do you or someone you know use NHS hearing aids? Do you need new batteries supplied and/or fitted? Do you need the tubing replaced on either your mould or open fit NHS hearing aids? If yes, then NHS Tayside volunteers will be here to help you on Wednesday, 1 April between 10 am and 12 noon at the Aberfeldy & Kinloch Rannoch Medical Practice, (Wellbeing Room), Aberfeldy.
Our event wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our extraordinary team of volunteers, they truly make it possible. Whether you volunteer solo or with a group, you’ll help create an amazing experience for every participant.
As a thank you, you’ll receive a FREE entry for next year’s event for you or a friend.
Volunteer roles are varied from race pack collection, helping at feed stations on the route and giving out medals and goodies at the finish.
If you are part of a local community group or you are a scout or cadet leader, we o er £40 per volunteer. Please note that the volunteers must be over the age of 14 on event day. It’s a great way to fundraise while supporting your community.
Head to our website to find out how to get involved:
https://www.etapecaledonia.com/volunteer
Head to our website to enter. BE PART OF THE TEAM & EARN A FREE ENTRY
Choose your 40, 55 or 85 mile route and explore beautiful Highland Perthshire on two wheels and closed roads!
APPLICATIONS CLOSE 24 APRIL 2026
Limited entries remain for the 20th edition of Etape Caledonia. Join us on Sunday 10th May 2026 for an unforgettable adventure.
Pitlochry & Moulin Community Council
The Pitlochry & Moulin Community Council (PMCC) represents local residents by listening to community concerns and supporting ideas that help Pitlochry and Moulin continue to develop as inclusive, welcoming and vibrant places to live.
Highlights from our March meetingThe March meeting covered a range of local issues, ongoing projects, and opportunities affecting both communities.
Police update - Police Scotland provided a short update, noting that officers continue regular community engagement and routine local monitoring.
School development - Members discussed the planned development at the school, which includes relocating the library and leisure facilities to the school campus. The current construction timeline is summer 2027. Ahead of this, Perth and Kinross Council will carry out a pre-planning consultation within the community.
Infrastructure updates - BEAR Scotland essential wall replacement and riverbank reinstatement works require the A9 northbound off-slip into Pitlochry to close from Monday, 1 June to Thursday, 31 December. The timing of the works has been scheduled to minimise environmental impact on the River Tummel. Perth and Kinross Council has introduced urgent mitigation measures at Aldour Bridge after inspections identified deterioration in key structural elements. The bridge remains open to both vehicles and pedestrians at all times; however, temporary restrictions are now in place. These include a 20 mph speed limit on the C452 Bridge Road, a continuous single-lane closure, and two-way time-controlled traffic signals. These measures will remain in place while specialist assessments and repair work are undertaken.
Hackle Rally 2027 - Organisers of the proposed Hackle Rally, planned for March 2027, provided a detailed update on their progress. More information will be shared with the community over the coming months - you
can view their proposal on our website. Full minutes are available on our website. Next meeting - Our next meeting will take place in Aldour Community Hall on Monday, 13 April at 7 pm. All are welcome; meetings are open to everyone and offer a chance to share ideas, raise local issues, and hear updates on what’s happening in our area. The agenda will be published in advance on our website: www.mypmcc.org Planning & Development updatesPlanning matters continue to be updated regularly on both the PMCC Facebook page and website. Perth and Kinross Council is developing its new Local Development Plan (LDP3), which will guide future land-use decisions across the region. Residents can explore proposals, including an interactive map showing what is being considered for Pitlochry, Moulin, and the wider area, via the link on the PMCC website. PKC welcomes enquiries at DevelopmentPlans@pkc.gov.uk.
Connect with us - www.mypmcc.org, info@mypmcc.org, find us on Facebook.
2026 European Junior and Under 23 Wild Water Racing Championships
Paddle Scotland are excited to announce that they will be hosting the 2026 European Junior and Under 23 Wild Water Racing Championships on the River Tay between Aberfeldy and Grandtully from Wednes-
day, 12 to Saturday, 15 August. As it has been a few decades since an international canoeing event has been held at Grandtully, Paddle Scotland are committed to delivering a great event for competitors and locals alike.
This is a significant event for canoeing in Scotland and for Paddle Scotland. Wild Water Racing has two formats, both raced against the clock: the Classic, which is a longer race typically lasting around 15 minutes, and the Sprint, which is over in less than a minute. The Classic will take place on Wednesday 12 August and Thursday, 13 August, the Sprint heats will take place on Friday, 14 August, with the finals being on Saturday, 15 August.
For the Classic race competitors will be getting on the Tay at Beyond Adventure in Aberfeldy and paddling to below Fourth Falls, the sprint will finish at the same place with the start upstream of the Tully rapids. As this is a European Championship, we are expecting around 300 competitors and coaches: with teams coming from across Europe, from France all the way across to Macedonia. These championships don’t typically expect many travelling spectators, however there will be some.
This event will be based at Grandtully making use of the recently upgraded Paddle Scotland camp site facilities, as well as the village hall and playing fields.
Although the racing starts on Wednesday, 12 August, we are expecting that teams will start to arrive several days before. There may even be teams that come across in the months ahead of the race to get familiar with the Tay.
The organisers of the event have the joint objective of hosting a great European River Racing Championships on the River Tay while respecting the local community and landowners alike. Should you need further details on the event, or should you be willing to help with running the event we would also be keen to hear from you at wwreventinfo@paddlescotland.org.uk
Tayside and Strathearn
Help for Ukraine
We would like to thank everyone who has delivered vital items to the various collection points or indeed to Errol during this particularly cold period. It is only by receiving these heartfelt donations of goods and money that we can continue to send a 40 ft articulated lorry to Ukraine every fortnight. When it arrives, we receive photos of families choosing essential items to cook, wear or swallow eg, paracetamol or aspirin.
We are now trying to send appealing extras that might lighten their load eg, hand cream, Vaseline, Lip salve, Emery boards etc. The Ukrainians’ Wish List remains unaltered.
Our next idea to help them illuminate their long nights is by making candles. We have plenty of candles to melt down but are advised to use small bake bean or small corn cans and would be very grateful if, after enjoying the above, you could put them into the collection points.
Crieff collection point - Thank you to all those who have contributed already and welcome to those who would like to do so now. Adventist Church ADRA warehouse, Gwydyr Road, Crieff, PH7 4BS.
Opening hours - Tuesdays until Tuesday, 7 April, from 6 pm to 7 pm. If you would like to donate, please find us on this email address: info@tash4ukraine. org.uk.
Open Day: Pitlochry Tennis Club
Are you looking to improve your tennis skills, meet new friends and enjoy the great outdoors? Look no further! Pitlochry Tennis Club is pleased to welcome everyone of all ages and skill levels to our open day on Sunday, 12 April, 2 pm.
Located in the glorious grounds of the Atholl Palace Hotel, we have four wellmaintained courts, a welcoming club shed, and a variety of activities and facilities designed to meet the needs of every player. Whether you’re picking up a racket for the first time, or returning to tennis after some time, everyone is welcome to come along to the open day.
Open Day - *Try out the ball machine! *Get some help with your serve (Rackets and balls provided) *Find out about activities and membership *Refreshments available
Why Join Pitlochry Tennis Club in 2026/27?
Inclusive Environment - We pride ourselves on creating a friendly and supportive atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. Social Events - From friendly tournaments to social mixers, we hold twice weekly social tennis nights (5 pm Wednesdays and 2 pm Sundays) and host a variety of events throughout the year, providing ample opportunities to meet fellow tennis enthusiasts.
League Tennis - Throughout the summer, the club plays in the Perth & District league, with home and away matches against other local clubs such as Dunkeld and Perth. We also play friendlies from time to time. Fitness and Fun - Tennis is a fantastic way to stay active and healthy while having a great time with friends. Practice makes perfect! Use our ball machine to improve your skills. Hours and hours of fun!
Special Membership Offer: 50% off! To celebrate the new season, we are thrilled to offer annual membership for £100 - that’s 50% off our recommended annual fee. You can also try before you buy. Pop along and join in our weekly, open social tennis sessions to experience all our club has to offer. Join Us Today! Interested? Please message our club secretary John on johnuytman@
gmail.com or WhatsApp on 07941 807569, pop along for a chat any Wednesday or Sunday. You can also find and follow us on Facebook.
Pitlochry Town & Country Club
The last meeting for this session is on Thursday, 16 April, when we look forward to hearing a speaker from the Perthshire Gallery, Bonnet Hill Road, Pitlochry. This local Gallery has much to offer within its walls providing a diversity of skills, arts and crafts.
Meetings are held in the Aldour Community Hall from 2 pm till 4 pm, at £3 per member attending, which includes tea, coffee and home bakes.
Anyone requiring the Community Bus should please make contact the day before the meeting on Pitlochry 01796 472765. Hope to see you there.
Killiecrankie fincastle & Tummel
Community Council
Killiecrankie Fincastle & Tummel Community Council wishes to thank the speakers from the proposed Hackle Rally for coming along to talk about their plans at our most recent meeting. We had a full Agenda in March and Minutes of the meeting can now be read on www.killiecrankievillagehall.co.uk/ community-council/minutes.php.
We also wish to thank all the volunteers who took part in the annual Killiecrankie Litter Pick. In spite of our best efforts, roadside litter remains a scourge.
If you would like to receive Minutes and news of local events by email, please join our mailing list. Contact info@kftcommunitycouncil.co.uk to have your name added.
Killiecrankie Village Hall -
Killiecrankie Memorial Hall Trust will hold its AGM on Tuesday, 21 April at 7 pm to approve the accounts for 2025, appoint members of the management committee and conduct any other relevant business.
Anyone resident in the Killiecrankie, Aldclune and Fincastle area is welcome to attend.
The hall is available to hire for any event - large or small. See the website www.killiecrankievillagehall.co.uk for details or email info@killiecrankievillagehall.co.uk.
Pitlochry and Moulin History Society
The April meeting of the History Society will be on Monday, 27 April at 7.30 pm within the Pitlochry Tryst. The speaker will be Keith Myers who will talk on his research into Ardtrasgairt, a portrait of a Highland community in the 19th Century. Lying at the foot of Glen Lyon, the talk covers the changes in this working-class community in the mid to late 19th century, who lived there and the dramatic changes as industrialisation progressed. Admission £3 and all welcome. Volunteers to help with the running of the society are always welcome, speak to a member of the committee.
Cleaning – General Housework, Dusting, Vacuuming, Spring Cleaning, Oven Cleaning
D.I.Y. – Shelf Fitting, Picture Hanging, Power Washing Patios, etc
D.I.Y. – Shelf Fitting, Picture Hanging, Power Washing Patios, etc Dog Walking, Car washing & Valeting
D.I.Y. – Shelf Fitting. Power Washing Patios, etc
Dog Walking, Car washing & Valeting
Dog Walking, Car washing & Valeting
If there is anything you can’t see on the list please just ask No job too small
If there is anything you can’t see on the list please just ask No job too small
If there is anything you can’t see on the list please just ask No job too small References can be supplied
References can be supplied
Heart of Scotland Herb Society
Herbs Health Happiness
Our next meeting will be held in The Bowling Club, Aberfeldy, at 2 pm on Wednesday, 15 April. Spring is well on the way and the perfect time for Local Herbalist Freya Broad to give us a talk on Spring Herbs and Wild Foraging.
All are welcome. Guest entry £5. Information contact Cath McGregor Tel: 01887 830234 or Susan Craik Tel: 07501 095602 or updates on Facebook Heart of Scotland Herb Society
Blair Atholl Village Hall Craft Fairs
It’s that time of year again when our village hall throws open its doors and car park on Saturdays to craft fairs run by the Atholl Craft Collective and the Craft Bazaar team. They don’t happen every week, but are on twice a month through the spring, summer and autumn months - a great place to find gifts for your loved ones and treats for yourself - check our website for exact dates www.blairathollvillagehall. co.uk/whats-on.
The first fair will be on Saturday, 11 April, so get yourselves along to see a wide range of arts and crafts work created by local people. And there may even be some spring plants for sale. What keen gardener can resist? Find out more from Sue Gledhill. Email fobavh@outlook.com
Pitlochry Station Bookshop - Half a million pounds raised! Pitlochry Station Bookshop opened in 2005 and was formally constituted in December 2006. In the years since, volunteers have overseen plenty of changes, including new, custom-made shelving. What has remained unchanged has been our commitment to supporting our six charities to the best of our ability and to doing so by offering for sale quality books, covering every genre, at prices hard to match anywhere.
We have a higher price for certain categories, such as classic Penguin books (the orange and white covers), travel and fiction published in the last three years. We also price individually books that are of particular value, historically or for their high production values. 90% of our stock, though, remains £1 for paperbacks and £2 for hardbacks. So reaching £500,000 in sales has been done while offering excellent value for money.
All involved in the Bookshop are now looking forward to celebrating that achievement in May - more details in our next reportwith our charities and key supporters. In the meantime, as well as calling in on Platform 1 as usual, you can join us on Saturday, 4 April when we’ll have a stall, from 12 pm to 4 pm, at the Easter Book Fair in Fisher’s Hotel. Work is already underway selecting a suitable range of books to tempt visitors.
Thank you to all who have got 2026 off to an excellent start by bringing donations to the Bookshop. Having space to store books before we are able to display them is always a challenge but it’s one we welcome. If donating more than two bags, please contact us first so that we can arrange to receive them. From Tuesday, 31 March, Pitlochry Station Bookshop remains open every day of the week except Sunday from 9 am to 4.30 pm.
Climate Café Aberfeldy - Climate Café
Aberfeldy is part of a network of Climate Cafés around the world where people gather to chat and take action on climate. We meet the second Tuesday of each month at 7.30 pm. It’s all very informal, welcoming and there’s always excellent tea, coffee and cake! We’ve had some fantastic discussions over the last few months about ethical finance, clean energy access in Africa, and most recently reducing food waste. We partnered with Healthiest Town Aberfeldy on the Too Good to Waste campaign in March, including a cooking demonstration by local chef Nick Wilson of the Perthshire Table on making delicious food out of things we might think of food waste - for example chutney made with banana skins and hummus out of broccoli stalks - all very tasty! Our April meeting will be on Tuesday, 14 April at 7.30 pm, upstairs at Handam. Topic: A Fishy Business - is fish farming ethical? There’s lots to talk about here with concerns regarding the environmental impacts of fish
farming as well as the benefits it can bring to remote communities. Donald Riddell, who has a long history of working with people to connect with nature, will kick off the session and everyone is invited to participate in what is bound to be a lively discussion. On Tuesday, 12 May the topic will be the Climate impact of Artificial Intelligence, also held upstairs at Handam Zero Waste Store. There are also monthly films with a focus on the environment at the Birks Cinema (4th Monday of each month). The next film is on Monday, 27 April - The Shepherd and the Bear: Set high in the majestic French Pyrenees, The Shepherd and the Bear explores a conflict provoked by the reintroduction of brown bears in the midst of a traditional shepherding community.
For questions, or to join our email list for updates and news, please contact aberfeldyclimatecafe@gmail.com and follow our Facebook page - Aberfeldy Climate Café.
Aberfeldy Farmers’ Market and Arts and Craft Fair
We are kicking off markets this year on Sunday, 5 April. Come along to the square between 10 am and 2 pm and see what is for sale this year! We have some interesting new offerings as well as the usual tasty delights.
The Arts and Craft Fair will be inside on the mezzanine floor of the Birks Cinema. We hope that you will be able to have coffee, brunch or lunch at one of the many super cafés and visit some of our lovely independent shops open on Sunday. For further details of the Farmers’ Market email aberfeldymarket@gmail.com or for the Art Fair email lynn@breaghaglass.com.
Breadalbane & District Riding for the Disabled
There has been much preparation for the start of riding for 2026 on Monday, 27 April with indoor and outdoor training sessions reminding everyone of the routines etc, and introducing new protocols as advised by head office. We look forward to welcoming our riders some of whom will be well-known faces, but there will be new ones too.
Our single day at the Thrift Shop did well and helped boost our finances. Since then another charity has very kindly offered us four of their days Wednesday, 6 May to Saturday, 9 May. Incredibly kind and we are so grateful to have this opportunity to raise more money for our funds. It continues to be a headache for us as to how to raise sufficient funds to cover our running costs.
Volunteers are an essential part of RDA and without them we cannot operate. Volunteers run our entire group, so we are continuing to look out for new people to ensure its survival. No knowledge of ponies or riding is necessary but if you are
interested, please do get in touch by contacting Helen at our email address breadalbanerda@gmail.com. (Scottish Charity No. SC047991)
Inner Wheel Club
of Pitlochry
Inner Wheel is an international women’s organisation. Our objectives are service with friendship and international understanding. We achieve this through monthly supper meetings with informative and entertaining speakers, social gatherings and community service. We also raise funds in support of local, national and international charities. We meet on the fourth Thursday of every month for supper followed by a speaker.
We’d like to thank everyone who came along to our quiz, helping us raise funds for Maggie’s Centre and Mary’s Meals. We also look forward to welcoming people to our open meeting in April.
If you would like to know more about Inner Wheel then please email innerwheelpitlochry@gmail.com or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/InnerWheelPitlochry.
Moulin Hall Trust: A note from the committee
Another busy start to the year, with some fantastic local groups using the Moulin Hall for everything from Bridge, Scottish Country Dancing and Yoga to Repair Café and Sewing Classes, as well as numerous private functions. We had a fantastic night in January where we collaborated with Confolens Ceilidh Band and hosted a Taste of Burns, which was widely enjoyed! This helped raise funds that were split between the Hall and Confolens Ceilidh Band for future events and Hall upkeep. Delighted to report that this funding contributed to our new doorstep and fresh gravel around the entrance to the Hall, keeping it looking fresh and cared for - and less muddy! We are so delighted to be able to provide affordable facilities for such a broad range of events that bring so many people together. Notice of our AGM - Friday, 15 May, 7 pm in the Moulin Hall - all welcome. For all bookings, contact Libis 07930 288761; www.facebook.com/MoulinHallUsersGroup
Moulin Hall Trust
Notice of AGM 2026 Friday, 15 May at 7pm in Moulin Hall.
Pitlochry Garden Share
- We are currently very busy preparing beds, planting lots of seeds indoors, and getting our new polytunnel ready for action.
We will hopefully hold our first market stall of the year on Saturday, 18 April. It will be in the usual place just outside the monthly Pitlochry market between 10 am and 2 pm. We should have some young fruit bushes and rhubarb plants, and some other seedlings (eg, tomatoes) for sale.
Please keep an eye on our Facebook page and our website (see below) for any other upcoming events.
We are always delighted to have new volunteers. We will particularly welcome extra help over the next few months since our coordinator Anna Stokes is currently on maternity leave. If anyone is interested in joining us, or learning more about us, visit our website at pitlochrygardenshare.org or check out our Facebook page. You can also email us via pitlochrygardenshare@gmail.com.
Dull and District Scottish Women’s Institute
We meet on the first Tuesday of every month (from September until May) at 7.30 pm in the Camserney Hall. You will always get a fabulous tea with home baked goodies and delicious sandwiches. Best not to eat too much before you come!
Next Meeting - Tuesday, 7 April at 7.30 pm. Helena Smith, Demonstration and have a go at making a small Spring flower arrangement
Membership - £37 Guests - £5
If you would like further information, please feel free to contact us via the Dull and District SWI Facebook page.
wkgerrie.inver@gmail.com
Pitlochry Town Hall - An Audience with Eddie Rose will be a night to remember. Eddie Rose will take to the stage on Friday, 10 April at 7.30 pm, in a generous offer to help fundraising for the Town Hall. Accompanied by Wayne Robertson on the accordion. The hall was built for local gatherings like this, so let’s come together with great community spirit. Tickets £8. Another fantastic event lined up is on Friday, 22 May, a concert by the Dunkeld and District Strathspey and Reel Society. Up to 15 musicians performing traditional and contemporary Scottish music. Tickets £12. Tickets for town hall organised events are available via our website and in person at our new Information Point: open Fridays 12 to 4 pm (other times TBC - volunteers needed). Pop in your diary: Craft Fairs on the first Saturday of the month from Saturday, 2 May 10 am to 3 pm. Handmade crafts and designs, supporting local small businesses and artists.
Saturday, 18 April 8 pm, by AMAC Events: Weegie hink ae that? Musical sketch comedy trio. Age 14+ £20. Please visit our website to view all events, tickets and to join our weekly Lottery. Fundraising is a vital part of our journey towards community ownership and we thank everyone for their support. www.pitlochrytownhall.com; enquiry@PitlochryTownHall.com
Rannoch History Society
Friday 24th April, 7.30 pm, Kinloch Rannoch Village Hall.
The Rannoch History Society is pleased to welcome Dr Nicola Small, delivering a talk entitled Interesting and intriguing lives - early Duchesses of Atholl, and their notable connections RHS annual Membership £15 per person, £5 per person admittance if not a member. Post-talk drinks and nibbles included. Further information and any updates will be available on the Rannoch History Society Facebook Page.
Aberfeldy Highland Ball - The Aberfeldy Highland Ball Committee is delighted that the money raised at the 2025 Aberfeldy Highland Ball will go to the Scottish Charity Air Ambulance.
SCAA is Scotland’s only charity Air Ambulance and is funded entirely by the generosity of the people of Scotland. Thanks to SCAA supporters, they are able to respond to time-critical accidents and emergencies throughout Scotland and its many Islands. We wish to thank all who attended the ball and who bought raffle tickets and all who donated prizes for the raffle, and all those who generously donated directly. Your support and generosity is very much appreciated. Together we raised over £6,000 which is a record amount for any charity over the Ball’s history.
The Charity for the 2026 Aberfeldy Highland Ball is the Butterfly Conservation Charity and the date is Saturday, 5 December. This is the first Environmental charity that we have supported and is in response to the biodiversity, nature decline and climate crisis. It is concerning that three-quarters of British butterflies are in decline. The 56 species in Britain and Ireland are under threat today from unprecedented environmental change. As Butterflies and moths have been recognised by the Government as indicators of biodiversity with their fragility making them quick to react to change so their struggle to survive is a serious warning about our environment.
public access defibrillators in Aberfeldy & Weem
Public access defibrillators in Aberfeldy and Weem can be found at: *The Birks Cinema, The Square *Chillies Indian Restaurant, Dunkeld Street *Aberfeldy Fire Station, Crieff Road *Aberfeldy Bowling Club, Taybridge Terrace *Outside 1 Moness Crescent (path from Old Crieff Road to Moness Crescent) *ABC Nursery, Dunkeld Road (*adult and child pads) *Ailean Chraggan Hotel, Weem *Weem Church (at rear door)
These defibrillators are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can be used without training (open the defibrillator and follow the spoken instructions). You cannot shock someone who is not in cardiac arrest. Special children’s pads (under 8 years or 55kg) are available at the ABC Nursery location.
Any issues with the defibrillators, please contact John Duff (01887 820217).
Pitlochry Hospital Car Service
Since 1 August 2025 the Service has provided volunteer drivers for over 60 trips to hospital in Perth and Dundee. Demand continues to grow; we received 16 requests in January 2026. We are very grateful to our volunteer drivers for continuing to offer this service.
The Service is available to patients of the Atholl Medical Centre who are not covered by Tay Valley Connections. The Service offers lifts to hospital appointments in Perth and Dundee. We do not cover other types of appointment, such as opticians, or trips to the Pitlochry Community Hospital.
Drivers wait for the appointment to finish and return the patient home. There is a charge to cover the driver’s costs but not their time. The cost of a round trip to Perth is £20 and it is £30 to Dundee. Receipts are available.
If you or someone you know would like to use the service or volunteer as a driver, please contact 07767 547892 or email pitlochryhospitalcars@gmail.com.
Bring Back The Smile to Nepal - Almost 11 years on from the Nepal earthquake of 25 April 2015, Bring Back The Smile to Nepal continues to support long-term recovery through education: women’s health initiatives: women’s enterprise projects and wider community development.
We offer engaging talks for community groups, organisations and schools, sharing real stories from our work on the ground and the impact these programmes are having. If you are looking for an informative and inspiring speaker, we’d be delighted to visit.
To book a talk, please contact Anna at bringbackthesmiletonepal@ gmail.com.
You can also get in touch via our social media platforms. (Scottish Charity No. SC045923)
Beef, Veal, Lamb, Pork, Poultry & Sausages
Botanical Spirits, Mead and Beer
Bread and Cheese
Cakes and Chocolate
Eggs and Honey
Fresh and Smoked Fish
Fruit and Vegetable
Markets 5th April & 3rd May 2026
Homemade Burgers hot or to take home
Jam, Jellies and Sauces
10.00am to 2.00pm
Aberfeldy Town Square
1st Sunday of the Month
April - November 2024
Venison, Rabbit, Pheasant, Pigeon, Partridge… Pies and Pasties
Plants and Herbs
Preserves and Pickles
Ready Meals
Salad and Olives
Scones and Tray Bakes
Shortbread and Oatcakes
Vegetarian and Vegan Food
How to Contract with Tradesmen - In the current financial climate people are looking to save money wherever they can, none more so than when looking to get work carried out on their home, but the cheapest tradesman is not always the best!
Here is a list of DO’s and DON’Ts when contracting with tradesmen:
DO ask for references and names of previous clients. Speak to them and look at their previous work, if possible
DO make sure you have a sufficient contact details for the tradesman e.g. geographic address, landline telephone number
DO get at least 2 detailed quotes in writing for the work needing to be done (3 quotes for larger jobs) and check that VAT is included in the final figure
DO check any claims by the tradesman that they are a member of a trade association
DO agree on the work being carried out and payment terms before the tradesman starts the job
DO make sure you receive your cancellation rights if you enter into a contract/agreement with a tradesman during a visit to your home or work - in most cases the tradesman must give written notice of your right to cancel the agreement
DO have regular meetings with the tradesman if it is a building job to make sure everything is on track
DO make sure you have any instructions and warranties for goods
DO know your rights - contact Citizens Advice Consumer Services on 08454 04 05 06 if you have any queries about your rights, or alternatively go online to www.adviceguide.org.uk
DON’T pay the final bill until the job is done and you are happy with the work - you have the right to withhold a reasonable amount of money until the work has been done to your satisfaction
DON’T rush into anything - take your time to make a decision on which tradesman to use
DON’T agree to have work done on the spot by someone who knocks on your door touting for work especially if they tell you there is something wrong with your property.
PADS
- PADS (Perthshire Abandoned Dogs Society) is a wellloved, long established local dog rescue charity with kennels at Forteviot, a few miles south-west of Perth. Our aim is to provide care and shelter for the county’s unwanted dogs and to find them new loving homes.
Contact Fiona MacEwan
M: 0799 0834 092
aberfeldymarket@gmail.com
Our kennels, which were renovated in recent years, can house up to thirty animals in warmth and comfort. We provide veterinary care for the sick and injured amongst our strays and we have a small hospital unit which is used for the recovery of animals who have had operations. See www.padsdogrescue.com for further information.
For
Thankfully
Every
Highland Safaris begins a new era of family-led ownership
Founded by Donald and Julie Riddell in 1992, the iconic Highland experience near Aberfeldy enters a new chapter as second-cousin Robbie Winton acquires the business from Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels, building on its legacy and future potential.
Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels has announced the sale of Highland Safaris to Robbie Winton, reconnecting the muchloved Highland attraction with the wider family of its original founder.
After acquiring Highland Safaris in 2022, and following a period of careful stewardship and development, the Leckie family felt this was the right moment to hand the business on.
Ensuring Highland Safaris continues with clear direction and deep respect for its roots, this handover allows the Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels to focus its future investment on its core hotel and hospitality portfolio.
Robbie Winton is the second cousin of Donald Riddell, who founded Highland Safaris in 1992.
With strong family ties to the business, previous managerial experience as their own Operations Manager and a deep personal connection to the Highlands, Robbie brings both continuity and fresh ambition to the role.
Highland Safaris under his leadership.’ Highland Safaris has spent more than 30 years offering guests unforgettable encounters with Scotland’s landscapes and wildlife, combining adventure, conservation and storytelling. The business has now become a cornerstone of naturebased tourism in Perthshire.
The business provides a broad portfolio of guided experiences, including mountain safaris, outdoor activities such as Archery and Axe Throwing, their unique red deer and barn owl experience, private bookings and corporate events. These offerings attract visitors from across the UK and internationally, contributing to Perthshire’s reputation as a leading destination for responsible tourism. For Robbie, the acquisition represents more than a business move, ‘Highland Safaris has been part of my life for a long time now, so taking on ownership feels incredibly special. I’ve seen first-hand the care, passion and hard work that goes into creating these experiences and my focus now is on continuing that legacy while bringing new energy and ideas into the mix.
group and corporate experiences.
‘Supporting the local community is incredibly important to me. Highland Safaris is part of the fabric of Aberfeldy and wider Perthshire and I’m keen to work closely with local businesses, suppliers and partners to ensure the area grows together’, says Robbie.
The transition has been warmly welcomed by the team at Highland Safaris, with a strong sense of continuity and shared excitement as the business enters a new era under family-connected ownership. Reflecting on the transition, Harriet Gray, General Manager of Highland Safaris, said, ‘On behalf of the entire team, I want to welcome our new owners with excitement and optimism. We look forward to working together to grow the business and continue delivering excellence. You have a committed, passionate team behind you, ready to support this next chapter.’
Highland Safaris remains open yearround, welcoming visitors, locals and corporate groups. Those interested are encouraged to experience Highland Safaris for themselves and be part of its next chapter. To book an experience or find out more, visit www.highlandsafaris.net.
New Owners; Robbie Winton and Rebecca Maitland taken by Iain Struthers.
Commenting on the sale, Richard Leckie of Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels, said, ‘Highland Safaris has given us many memorable adventures and immense satisfaction, both as owners and in the experiences we’ve been able to offer our customers. We are genuinely pleased to be passing the business to Robbie and have every confidence in the continued success of
I’m also excited to be doing this alongside my partner Rebecca, who brings a huge amount of creativity and energy through her business, Socially Organised. She’ll be spearheading our marketing and supporting the day-today running of Highland Safaris, helping us tell our story in a way that feels authentic and true to who we are.’
Looking ahead, Robbie’s focus will be on strengthening Highland Safaris’ connection with the local community, welcoming returning and new visitors, and expanding opportunities for private,
Neighbourhood Watch, Pitlochry
Spring brings a fresh new set of scam opportunities as well as the all year round ones, so please look out for and be suspicious of cold callers offering gardening and/or home maintenance services, as well as phone calls, emails or texts from people saying they are from all sorts of official organisations, such as your Bank, TV Licensing, HMRC, broadband provider, Sky, the Council or delivery company.
If the caller/emailer mentions ‘security check’, ‘refund’, ‘subscriptions’, ‘delivery problems’, ‘prize draw’, ‘gift card’, ‘special offer’, ‘malware or viruses on your computer’ alarm bells should sound.
If they ask you to confirm personal or financial information or ask for access to your computer, it’s sure to be a scam, so put
the phone down/delete the email. Scammers can be charming and appear friendly to lull us into a false sense of security but they also try to panic us into believing the matter is urgent. Do not be fooled. Keep calm. Be sceptical. No matter who they say they are, do not feel pressurised into giving them any information. It’s your home, your choice and you don’t need to answer questions from anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
Pitlochry High School Parent
Council Annual General Meeting
Pitlochry High School Parent Council warmly invites all parents and carers to attend our Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, 29 April at 6 pm. This meeting is a vital opportunity for our school community to come together, reflect on the past year, and help shape the future of the Parent Council and the wider school campus. At this year’s AGM, we will be seeking to elect a new Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. These roles are essential to keeping the Parent Council operating effectively and ensuring that parents’ and carers’ voices continue to be heard. Without volunteers to step into these positions, the Parent Council cannot function, making your involvement more important than ever.
The Parent Council plays a key role in working with our children and young people in mind, alongside the school staff and the local authority, to provide support and constructive input on matters affecting school life. One particularly important area of focus is helping to ensure due process around the development of the school campus so that decisions are informed, transparent, and reflective of the needs of pupils and staff. Getting involved does not require prior experience - just an interest in supporting the
school community and a willingness to contribute. Whether you take on an official role or simply attend meetings when you can, your perspective matters and can make a real difference.
The AGM is open to all parents and carers, and we encourage anyone curious about the Parent Council to come along, ask questions, and find out more. Together, we can help ensure Pitlochry High School continues to be a positive, supportive, and forward-looking environment for all. We look forward to welcoming you on Wednesday, 29 April at 6 pm.
School calendar - Don’t forget to keep an eye on the school calendar on the website for key dates and updates. Stay informed - Follow us on Facebook; visit: www.pitlochryhighschool.com; email: pitlochryparentcouncil@gmail.com
Just Singin’ Community Choir, Birnam
We have had such a lot of fun this spring term, led by fabulous tutor Emma Neck, singing everything from Ed Sheeran and The Cup Song to Robert Burns. Though currently on our Easter break, we are looking forward to the start of our next term at 7.30 pm on Wednesday, 22 April. As always, we will be meeting in the upstairs room at Birnam Arts and new singers are always welcome! It’s going to be a very varied term with two tutors who are new to our group leading the first four evenings, Matt Chalamanda and David McLean. The wonderful Hannah Rarity will be making a welcome return for the remaining four sessions. Please visit www.justsingin.co.uk for further details.
We would love you to come along and join in. A warm welcome awaits, and the joy of singing with a friendly, informal group. Hope to see you there.
We’re delighted that working with Pitlochry All Wheels (PAW) we have secured more than £200,000 towards improving our skatepark! We’re hugely grateful to the SSE Hydro Community Fund which awarded the project £100,000, SSE Renewables Sustainable Development Fund and SportScotland which awarded £50,000 each and the Gannochy Trust’s Youth Panel which awarded just over £4,000. A wheeled sports park will give the community, especially young people, a place to share experiences, develop skills and be active in a safe environment. We are working with Perth and Kinross Council to achieve a creative and collaborative design for all wheeled sports in harmony with the surroundings and the Recreation Ground’s function as home to large scale events, with the aim to deliver an all wheels park by the end of 2026. PCAT is proud to be part of the many initiatives supported by SSE Renewables, SportScotland and the Gannochy Trust’s Youth Panel making a difference in communities locally, regionally and nationally. The project previously received funding support from The Enchanted Forest discretionary Fund, Andie Millar’s Trust and Pitlochry Inner Wheel. A survey conducted last year showed considerable support for the proposals. If you have any questions about the proposals, please email pitlochryallwheels@gmail. com.
Find out more about PCAT on our website www.pitlochryaction.org.uk or by following ‘Pitlochry Community Action Trust - PCAT’ on Facebook.
away really hard. Most of them have never competed in a pipe band competition before, so it’s a huge step for them.
We’re having great fun organising our 60th year of Highland Nights. We’ve got visiting groups coming from abroad, including three pipe bands from Australia. We’ll keep you posted but we just need lots of dry, sunny Monday nights! Highland Nights are every Monday from Monday, 25 May to Monday, 7 September.
Our learners continue to practise away with lessons every Tuesday night in the Tulloch Institute, Perth. If you would like more information, please email tuition@thevale.org.
Gillie McNab gmcnab00@aol.com Mob 07733 152223
Pitlochry Bowling Club - Pitlochry Bowling Club would like to wish everyone a very Happy Easter!
We’re excited to start our outdoor season on Saturday, 18 April at 2 pm, and we’d love to see you there. Everyone is very welcome. By the time you read this, our AGM will have taken place, and we are pleased to say our treasurer is keeping membership fees the same - with a great offer for new members too. We’re a friendly, sociable club and always delighted to welcome new faces
Our popular ‘warm space’ mornings finishes at the end of this month. A huge thank you to John Anderson, Fay MacNicoll, Val Wilson and all their fantastic helpers for their commitment every Monday - it’s very much appreciated. We’re delighted that coffee mornings will continue, so please join us on Mondays from 10 am to 12 pm.
be provided.
Contact Fi at filumsdenyoga@gmail.com to book. For more information: www. filumsdenyoga.co.uk.
The Big Shed, which you can hire in full or in part, sits in a beautiful spot adjacent to the Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve, with views over Loch Tay. It’s a lovely space for wellness retreats of all kinds, as well as celebrations.
To find out more about the Big Shed, have a look at the website, the Facebook page or email us at websitecontact@bigshed.org.uk.
The Big Shed is at Tombreck on the north side of Loch Tay, about 2 miles beyond the Ben Lawers Hotel. Access is signposted from the main road and there is parking. www.bigshed.org.uk www.facebook.com/ theBigShedTombreck, txt or phone 07508 645453
Dunkeld Cathedral Art Exhibition
Vale of Atholl Pipe Band - March has been a month of practices for both our competing bands. Our Grade 4 band members from last year are looking forward to playing up in Grade 3 this year and working hard on their competition sets and our newly formed Grade 4b band, under Pipe Major Stuart Letford are practising
It’s been a successful winter of short mat bowls, with some great results. Now our outdoor fixtures are lined up for what promises to be a busy summer - fingers crossed for plenty of sunshine! Keep an eye on our Facebook page (Pitlochry Bowling Club) for updates. For more information, contact John on 07833 664121 or Agnes on 07918 122415.
The Big Shed - Yoga and Outdoor meditation retreat with Fi Lumsden on Sunday, 26 April from 10 am - 4 pm. Suitable for all ages and abilities and costs £60, which includes £10 deposit. A simple lunch of soup, bread, snacks and tea and coffee will
At the AGM in February it was agreed that the Exhibition would take place in the Duchess Anne in Dunkeld from Saturday, 25 July until Saturday, 29 August. We will take in pictures on Sunday, 19 and Monday, 20 July and artists may enter up to three pieces of work, nothing bigger than 80 x 80cm. A £10 administration fee will be collected at hand in. Work should be brought to Dunkeld ready to hang where appropriate. Registration is online at www.dunkeldartexhibtion.com and this will be open from Friday, 1 to Sunday, 31 May. The Exhibition is open every day from 10 am to 4 pm and 12 pm to 4 pm on Sundays and we do need to recruit new stewards to help. We always have 2 stewards on duty and the times are 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 4 pm and 12 pm to 2 pm and 2 pm to 4 pm on Sundays.
If you would like more information please phone Margaret Scott 01738 710399 or email Dunkeldart@aol.com