The Crieff & Comrie Quair

The Crieff & Comrie Quair TM

Crieff, Comrie & District’s Community Magazine • October 2026 CRIEFF | COMRIE | ST. FILLANS | MADDERTY | FOWLIS WESTER | GILMERTON 1

CRIEFF

FOOD DRINK FESTIVAL

10th - 18th OCTOBER 2026

RESTAURANT EVENTS - WORKSHOPS - TASTINGS - DEMOS FESTIVAL SPECIALS ACROSS TOWN - ARTISAN MARKET GRAND BAKE OFF - FINALE FUN DAY - AND MORE!

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The Crieff & Comrie Quair tel/text: 07436 793785 e: crieffandcomrie@thequair.com facebook.com/TheQuair

IN AUCHTERARDER

IN AUCHTERARDER WHERE LEGS AND FEET MATTER WHERE LEGS AND FEET GREGOR McCOSHIM FCPodSMATTER MChS GREGOR HCPC McCOSHIM FCPodS MChS REGISTERED HCPC REGISTERED ROUTINE CHIROPODY ROUTINE CHIROPODY WALKING/RUNNING INJURIES WALKING/RUNNING INJURIES ORTHOTIC/INSOLE MANUFACTURER ORTHOTIC/INSOLE MANUFACTURER LEG/FOOT HEALTH ASSESSMENT HIGH ASSESSMENT STREET, LEG/FOOT206 HEALTH AUCHTERARDER, PH3 1AF 206 HIGH STREET, TEL: 07932 725211 AUCHTERARDER, PH3 1AF EMAIL:TEL: grm@mccoshim.plus.com 07932 725211

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www.grmpodiatry.co.uk Comrie Allotments Association

Interested in having an allotment plot? Our plots are located at Cultybraggan Camp and available to residents of Comrie. Half and full plots are serviced with water close by and surrounded by beautiful scenery. To find out more please email: comrieallotments@gmail.com

October brings autumn colour, darker evenings and plenty to enjoy across our landscape. Strathearn has something rather tasty to tempt us. The Crieff Food & Drink Festival runs from Saturday, 10 October to Sunday, 18 October, celebrating the area’s food, drink and local producers, with events taking place around the town. A good excuse, if one were needed, to sample some of what Strathearn has to offer. Meanwhile, in Highland Perthshire, The Enchanted Forest returns to Faskally Wood, Pitlochry, from Thursday, 8 October until Sunday, 8 November, and 2026 is a particularly special year as the spectacular sound and light show celebrates its 25th anniversary. This year’s theme, Stop The Clock: The 25th Hour, imagines that once every 25 years Faskally Wood steals an extra hour from time. Visitors can follow the trail through the autumn woodland and around Loch Dunmore, where imaginative light installations and soundscapes transform the familiar forest after dark. This anniversary year is also expected to welcome The Enchanted Forest’s one millionth visitor. There is a rather pleasing coincidence this year too. British Summer Time ends on Sunday, 25 October, when the clocks go back one hour, so in the middle of Stop The Clock: The 25th Hour, we really will be treated to an extra hour. Finally, Saturday, 31 October brings Halloween. Pumpkins will glow, guisers will knock at doors and witches, ghosts and things that go bump in the increasingly long nights may be out and about. Enjoy October! d Linda

Alistair an

The Crieff & Comrie Quair is an open access monthly magazine which is delivered FREE to over 6,400 homes and businesss in the Crieff & Comrie area - that's from the county boundary west of St. Fillans to Madderty in the east. Copies for visitors are also made available each month from our outdoor dispensers in Crieff and Comrie. The extra print run is dependent on the normal fluctuating seasonal demand. As well as being a Community Magazine, The Quair is an excellent source of information for visitors. We also produce The Atholl & Breadalbane Quair. Each month, between the two magazines, we print an average of 15,000 and deliver more than 13,800 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 noon on the specified copy date, is factual, non-political, under 400 words, and not likely to offend. Copy Date - The copy date for advertisers and organisations to submit an advertisement or article for the November 2026 edition is noon on Tuesday, 13 October. The Magazines are due to be distributed week commencing Monday, 2 November 2026.

Strathearn Harriers - Full details of all club races and events are on the club website at www.strathearnharriers.org.uk. The club welcomes runners of all standards. Crieff and Comrie are great places for running, particularly if you like trails and hills. 4

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£1 Entry with a Young Scot Card

CASTLE • GARDENS • RESTAURANT • PLAYGROUND • EVENTS • GIFT SHOP

Blair Castle & Gardens Open Monday to Sunday, 10am - 5pm.

What’s on Sunday Lunch at Blair Castle Join us on Sundays

(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.

Enjoy a delicious roast, freshly prepared in the castle kitchen

Legends of the Castle 28th and 29th October A family-friendly Halloween adventure with all-you-can-eat pizza and fries

Red Deer Feeding Saturdays & Sundays Meet our herd of Red Deer, with feeding sessions twice daily at 12:30 & 14:30

Christmas Market 20th - 22nd November

Book your tickets online today.

Our festive market returns shop, taste and celebrate Christmas

atholl-estates.co.uk Blair Castle & Gardens, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH18 5TL

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The Scottish Parliament Párlamaid na h-Alba

Jim Fairlie MSP

Perthshire South & Kinross-shire I can be contacted by telephone on 01738 620540 or by email at Jim.fairlie.msp@parliament.scot The costs of this advert have been met from parliamentary resources

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Fancy a ‘wheel’ good time with Bertie Bus?

Bertie Bus provides friendship, conversation, and the chance to remain active in the community. Passenger assistants enable Bertie Bus to offer time out and human contact for local people who have difficulties with mobility or other potentially isolating issues. What does a passenger assistant do? Passenger Assistants accompany Bertie’s passengers on its various outings and help make those trips possible. While accessible community transport is at the heart of what Bertie provides, a journey on the bus is about much more than simply getting from one place to another. Bertie opens up opportunities and possibilities for people who may otherwise struggle to get out independently. These opportunities include the chance to shop, socialise, enjoy an afternoon out and spend time in good company. PAs are an important part of that experience, providing assistance where required, whilst helping create the friendly and sociable atmosphere familiar to Bertie’s passengers. It’s a role that can be particularly rewarding for someone who enjoys meeting and chatting with people and would like to do something practical for their local community. Volunteering that fits around you - One of the most important things that the Bertie Bus team would like prospective volunteers to know is that helping doesn’t have to take over your diary. The Bertie Bus team knows that volunteers have jobs, families, holidays, hobbies, and other commitments. The aim isn’t to ask a small number of people to give enormous amounts of their time, but to have a healthy team of volunteers who can each contribute when they are able. That means even someone who doesn’t have a great deal of spare time may still have something valuable to offer. And the more volunteers Bertie has available, the easier it becomes to share that work around.

So perhaps you’ve recently retired and would enjoy meeting some new people. Perhaps you have an occasional bit of free time and have been thinking about doing something within the community. Or perhaps you’ve seen Bertie travelling around the area for years and wondered what actually goes on onboard. Why not find out? For anyone who has occasionally thought about volunteering but worried about the commitment involved, the Bertie team would encourage them to consider giving it a try. Helping with Bertie can be fun and rewarding; it doesn’t require a huge commitment of time, and it can be fitted flexibly around the other things going on in your life. Perhaps most importantly, trying volunteering doesn’t mean making a long-term commitment before you know whether it is right for you. Come along, give it a go and see what you think. If you enjoy yourself and would like to help again, the Bertie Bus team would be delighted to have you. If you discover that it isn’t for you, that’s absolutely fine too. Volunteers are what make it possible for Bertie Bus to do what it does, from its regular outings throughout the year to larger occasions celebrating its passengers, such as their annual Summer Lunch (which you’ll read about below). What’s more, Bertie makes sure its volunteers get a celebration of their own too, with the annual Volunteers’ Tea offering an opportunity to recognise the people who keep the wheels turning. Around 80 gather for Bertie’s summer lunch - One excellent example of what Bertie’s volunteers help make possible came on Thursday 16 July, when around 80 people gathered for the annual Bertie Bus Summer Lunch. The event brought together passengers, volunteers and friends of Bertie for an afternoon of food (including lovely pies and other treats from Campbells Bakery), entertainment and good company. This year’s entertainment came courtesy of Nigel Gatherer and his nine-piece ukulele band, adding some live music to the after8

noon, which was enjoyed greatly. Bringing an event of this size together requires plenty of work behind the scenes, and the Bertie team would like to thank all the volunteers whose time and effort helped make the Summer Lunch possible. Special thanks go to Kathleen Coffey for her support in bringing the event together. Larger gatherings such as the Summer Lunch complement the smaller outings that take place throughout Bertie’s year. They allow passengers and volunteers from different groups to come together, catch up with familiar faces and enjoy being part of the wider Bertie community. A celebration of Bertie’s volunteers After celebrating Bertie’s passengers during the summer, September provided an opportunity to say thank you to the volunteers themselves. The annual Volunteers’ Tea was held at Crieff Golf Club on 7 September, recognising the hard work that’s been put in by Bertie’s team of volunteers throughout the year. This year, twenty-seven volunteers attended and enjoyed a fantastic afternoon with their peers, with lots of laughter and chat. Although everyone is part of the same organisation, volunteers often help with different outings and groups. That means they don’t necessarily get many opportunities to meet the other people giving their time elsewhere in Bertie. The Volunteers’ Tea provides that opportunity. As well as being a thank-you for everything they contribute, it’s a chance to sit down together, enjoy one another’s company, and celebrate another year of keeping Bertie on the road. And perhaps by the time next year’s tea comes around, you’ll be there to celebrate too. Anyone who has considered volunteering is encouraged to get in touch and find out more. There’s no need to make a huge commitment. Simply come along, give it a try and see whether helping with Bertie Bus is right for you. To find out more about becoming a Passenger Assistant or other volunteering opportunities with Bertie Bus, contact the secretary on 07716 119414 or email secretary@bertiebus.org.uk.

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Comrie in Colour volunteers sought

Do you enjoy the outdoors? Do you have some spare time? Would you like to help enhance the local environment? Comrie in Colour is a volunteer bloom group and part of the Take a Pride in Perth and Kinross Association. We care for public garden areas throughout the village of Comrie. Our work includes weeding, planting, pruning and general maintenance. No experience is necessary, and tools are provided. We usually meet on a suitable afternoon at 2 pm, weather permitting, and work for approximately two hours. Volunteers are welcome to come along

when they can and help for as long as they are able. Our working season runs from March to October. If you are interested and would like more information, please contact us at comrieincolour@gmail.com or call 07906 292565. Crieff Needs You - The Crieff Gleam Team is a community group of volunteers making their contribution to helping keep the streets and green spaces of Crieff litter free ... something we all want to see and enjoy. A small and dedicated group meet at The Square at 2 pm on a fortnightly basis, alternating between Saturday and Sundays (see next litter-pick dates below) but more volunteers would be very much appreciated and made very welcome. Any dates that you can offer your assistance for 1 hour would be very much appreciated. All equipment will be provided - gloves, bin bags, a visibility waistcoat and litterpick grabbers - so there is no need to bend down should you have any mobility issues. All ages are welcome, with any volunteers under 12 being accompanied by an adult. All collected bags are sealed, marked with a ‘Litter Picked By Volunteers’ label and

prompt vehicle collection is arranged. Should you not be able to join The Crieff Gleam Team on a Saturday or Sunday, please do consider being a solo picker at your own convenience. Simply pick and bag any litter you find on your travels, and place in the many public litter bins around 10

the town. Let Mark know about your efforts and you’ll be added to the Crieff Gleam Team social media posts via Crieff Community Council. Please be assured, every little piece of litter binned helps keep Crieff a clean and beautiful place to live, work and enjoy. Next Crieff litter-picking dates - Sunday, 4 October, Saturday, 17 October, Sunday, 1 November, Saturday, 14 November, Sunday, 29 November, Saturday, 12 December In the event a scheduled date requires rescheduling or cancellation, details will be announced via the Crieff Community Council Facebook page and the James Square noticeboard. For further details, please email Mark Hunter at markhunter0706@gmail.com.

Volunteers Needed in Crieff ! The Crieff Poppy Appeal is just around the corner, running from Tuesday, 20 October until Wednesday, 11 November, and we need your help to support our veterans and Armed Forces community. Whether you can spare a couple of hours during your weekly shop or a few days over the three weeks, every bit of time makes a massive difference right here in Strathearn. How you can get involved - *Poppy Sellers: Collect donations at local supermarkets or on the high street. *Drivers: Help drive and distribute poppy boxes to local shops and schools. *It’s a fantastic way to give back, meet friendly locals, and support a wonderful cause. Ready to join the team? Get in touch directly with our local organiser: Irene Anderson (Crieff British Legion), 07746 625944.

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Strathearn Music Society - Our 2026/27 season got off to

a thrilling start last month with violin/accordion duo ADlibitum, comprising violinist Andrea Gajic and her husband, accordionist Djordje Gajic, memorably produced a variety of classical music in their own inimitable style. Now the next concert will soon be upon us when the Scottish-based Scholfield - Clarke Duo arrive on Wednesday, 14 October, with Richard Scholfield on saxophone, accompanied by Iain Clarke on piano, will showcase the rich and diverse repertoire of the classical saxophone. Featured composers will be Bach, Bizet, Borne, Debussy, Jolivet, Piazzolla, Ravel and Schulhoff - all indicating that a wonderful evening is in store. As always, this concert will be held at Crieff Parish Church on the corner of Ferntower Road and Strathearn Terrace where the doors will open at 7 pm, with the concert starting at 7.30 pm. Tickets priced £16 (Students £5) can be obtained at the door or via Eventbrite (a small booking fee applies in the latter case), but anyone under 18 is admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. We look forward to welcoming you to this concert, as well as our next one on Wednesday, 25 November which will feature members of the famous Glasgow-based Telemann Ensemble when Neil Gillies on flute, Rona MacLeod on oboe, Kath Nagl on bassoon, Sharon Doyle on violin, Harold Harris on cello and Leslie MacLeod on harpsichord will perform a wide repertoire of classical works. For more information about any of our concerts or other activities, then visit the Strathearn Music Society’s website at www. concertsincrieff.co.uk or follow us on Facebook.

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Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries

Comrie Library

Bookbug sessions - Held every Friday morning from 9.30 am to 10 am. These fun, interactive sessions are suitable for pre-schoolers from baby years. Why not drop the older children at school or nursery, then pop along to the library with your wee ones? No need to book. Café Books - Do you love to read? Join us at Café Books to chat about new authors, share your own favourite books and be inspired to read more. Café Books is held at Comrie Library on the last Thursday of the month from 5.30 pm to 6.30 pm. Family history - Are you interested in researching your family history? Join our Family History Group. This informal session meets every four weeks on a Thursday afternoon from 2 pm. Using your own device is recommended, but we do have two network computers available if required. These sessions are free. Please contact the library for more information. Books on Wheels - For individuals in the Comrie and St Fillans area who cannot get out and about to visit the library, books can be delivered straight to your door each month. For more information, please get in touch with Comrie Library. Opening hours - Thursday: 2 pm to 7 pm; Friday: 10 am to 1 pm; Saturday: 10 am to 1 pm Contact us - 01764 657860; comrielibrary@culturepk.org.uk

Front Cover Picture

Our great thanks to naturalist Polly Pullar for this month’s wonderful front cover image. You can see more about Polly’s work at www.pollypullar.com 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 crieffandcomrie@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. Comrie Cancer Support - We are a group which meets regularly to offer mutual support to anyone affected by cancer. We have coffee etc., we chat, we share, and we learn from each other’s experiences through what can sometimes be a difficult time for the sufferer, their spouse, and for other friends and family members. All are welcome. And we are finding the meetings warm and dynamic, working as we had hoped. We meet on the second last Tuesday of each month throughout the year in Comrie and Dundurn Church Hall Annexe - 5.30 pm - 7 pm. Any further information can be obtained by calling: Agnes Drysdale on 07732 345675 or Lorna Ramsay on 07789 9878385. 12

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Crieff Rotary - As previously reported in the Quair, our important Charity AM/AM Golf Day at Crieff Golf Club took place in mid-August when 19 enthusiastic teams set out to try to win our coveted trophy, setting out in splendid weather at well-spaced intervals for a great day of golfing. At the end of the competition, all the results from each team were remarkably close but the ultimate winners were the four representing solicitors Lindsays (pictured left). Thanks to the competition fees, the pre-match sponsorship and the sale of raffle tickets, Crieff Rotary was delighted to have raised nearly £2,225 for its charity account - all of which can now be put towards supporting good causes. We are truly grateful to all those who supported this year’s event, not least those kind local businesses which provided excellent raffle prizes, sponsored selected holes or actually put forward teams to take part. We also were surprised how far some were prepared to travel to Crieff, with some coming from as far away as Monifieth in Angus or Oban in Argyll - but all agreed that they had greatly enjoyed the experience. In early September, we welcomed back the three Crieff High School pupils whom we had sent to the Abernethy Adventure Centre on Speyside for this year’s RYLA (Rotary Young Leaders Award) week-long camp. Amelia, Ciara and Alick joined us at the Meadow Inn and gave us a highly professional PowerPoint show illustrating a day-by-day account of their respective week at Abernethy - girls first before swapping with the boys. They all seem to have had great fun with the various challenges which were all carefully designed to develop their potential leadership skills in disparate ways. Longterm relationships with the other participants have been established and reunions seem to have been planned, even though some of the others live in more distant parts of northern Scotland. As always, the aim of every Rotarian is to help those who are somewhat disadvantaged compared with ourselves, but we still need more like-minded people to join us - and those who do will find it both rewarding and fun to be a Rotarian! Crieff Rotarians continue to meet twice a month at the friendly Meadow Inn in Burrell Street. For further information about Crieff Rotary, please scan the QR code, or visit its website, or email the Secretary at Secretary@crieff.rotary1010.org. Crieff and Strathearn Museum Cross Paths with History Becoming a Member: £15 per annum Volunteering: Our doors only stay open thanks to our dedicated volunteers. Visiting: Come in and share your own stories of Strathearn. Please come in and talk to us. 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 14

Can Do Crieff - A warm place to work

this autumn - Autumn is here, the days are getting shorter and the cooler weather is starting to arrive. For those working from home, this can be a good time to consider a change of scene and make use of a warm shared workspace at Can Do Crieff. With October half term also approaching, Can Do Crieff can provide a quieter place to work for those who may have children at home during the holidays. Whether you need somewhere to focus for a day or simply want a break from working alone at home, the space offers a local alternative in the centre of Crieff. Memberships range from day passes to unlimited 24/7 access, all without long-term contracts. Can Do Crieff is used by local people, freelancers and remote workers, creating a friendly working environment while helping people stay connected to the town. As a social enterprise, income from the workspace also helps support the work of Crieff Community Trust and Strathearn Arts and contributes to the wider community. Find out more at www.candocrieff.com or email us via candocrieff@gmail.com and we would be happy to show you around.

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Spooktacular Haunted Halloween event at Auchingarrich: Friday, 9 October to Saturday, 31 October Join us every Friday and Saturday throughout October for one of Scotland’s most bewitching family Halloween adventures! Step into the hauntingly beautiful forest, where winding paths are draped in cobwebs, lined with eerie graveyards, grinning skeletons, lurking spiders, a bubbling witch’s cauldron and a chilling haunted house - all brought to life by a team of costumed performers delivering just the right amount of spooks for every age. Climb aboard the free, tombstone tractor and trailer ride to the forest entrance, enjoy bewitching welcomes, fairground games, free craft activities and photo spots with spooky props, and toast marshmallows with Count Dracula, plus 10% off meals at the Dizzy Duck Café. The Spooky shop will be open for you, once you’ve parked, to purchase and stock up on lightsabres, sparkle wands, glow sticks and marshmallows for toasting, before heading down to the haunted forest. You will be transported to the haunted forest by the tombstone tractor-taxi where the adventure begins! The tractor-taxi is included in the price of your ticket! Watch out! Zombies, Ghosts and Ghouls are hiding around every corner, waiting to jump out at you. The best way to protect yourself is to Shout or Scream at them loudly!!! Small Monsters: £8 pp; Large Zombies: £12 pp; Monster Family Ticket: £38 (two adults and two children). Quair readers can use the code CCQUAIR-SP26 when booking online to receive a 15% discount on admission. Spooktacular Gift Shop, Toasting Marshmallows, Hot chocolate and Crafting available in the Café and at the event. Book your adventure now by scanning the QR code on our advert on page 7 or at www.jotform.com/222570686231051. All proceeds from the event go to Perthshire Zoo, Auchingarrich, Comrie, Perthshire PH6 2JE. Perthshire Zoo is a registered charity, SC053939. www.auchingarrich.co.uk. Tel: 01764 679469.

Cllr Stewart Donaldson

Strathearn Ward - SNP Last time I referred to the award of the Green Flag by Keep Scotland Beautiful to MacRosty Park. There was a celebration of this last month at the Pavilion. It was a day I was so pleased to see happen. Another event I enjoyed was the formal opening of the Viewpoint at Innerpeffray Library. Think some of you know that due to being a councillor I have been a Governor at the Library for several years. It is Scotland’s oldest public lending library, founded in 1680. My role is in many ways to be a guardian along with other trustees of the Library itself, and of its extensive collections: and not just of books. However, much has been undertaken over the last few years to improve and upgrade the surrounding grounds. There thanks must go in particular to Lara Haggerty and Peter Parke. The new Viewpoint gives an excellent view over the Heritage Trail, the River Earn, and over to Strageath. The links to the Roman era are so strong. For the future there is what will become the Innerpeffray Hedge. It will take a few years for this to become a really noticeable feature. Even if you do not go inside the Library itself, the Schoolroom, or the Chapel, the grounds are a great outdoor location. One that many of you will enjoy. Staying outdoors there was a meeting recently of the Steering Group about the Comrie to Trowan Core Path, and eventually hopefully to Crieff. At last, we look to be near to obtaining landowner consent for the whole route. There is an immense amount of work to be done. Not just on design, but actual construction. Moreover, there’s the question of funding. That said, I am more hopeful going forward. As an active travel route, it offers so many benefits not just for residents, but for tourists: not least taking cyclists off the busy A85. Another project that has been a major focus for me during my time as a councillor has been the Flood Protection Scheme for Comrie. It is nearly there with the scheduled completion date on Thursday, 12 November. Will say more next month. On the Visitor Levy we are now in the period of consultation. That ends on Wednesday, 11 November. I would recommend that readers consider taking part in this consultation, at www.pkc.gov.uk/visitorlevy, and there is a link there to the Consultation Hub. We very much want to hear your views, your comments, your ideas, so that we can mould and shape what is put forward in due course to Council. On Cameron Court, and on the overall provision of very sheltered and sheltered housing in Comrie there is a position of lacking clarity just now. Caledonia Housing Association announced that it was closing Cameron Court, and making other major changes. It was a real shock. That aroused immense opposition across the community. The ensuing public meeting saw some 250 in the audience; not just from Comrie itself, but from nearby areas in Strathearn. I will leave until next month the latest position, so the position becomes clearer. From Caledonia we received notice that there would be a pause. Shortly after that we were told that was not the case! We were perplexed to put it mildly. It is vital that we can end the uncertainty, not least for the elderly residents at Cameron Court. In addition, we must not lose Cameron Court as a community facility. To contact me I’m on SDonaldson@pkc.gov.uk, at 2 High Street, Perth. By phone it’s best to phone my Council mobile on 07557 815544. Comrie SWI - Competition results - 3 x Flapjacks: 1st Helen Williamson, 2nd Mairi Philp, 3rd Patricia Robertson. Foliage arrangement in a bottle: 1st Margaret Colyer, 2nd Jean Hunter, 3rd equal Mairi Philp and Christine Hepburn Next meeting - Tuesday, 13 October: ‘96th Birthday Party’. Fun day; no competitions. Elizabeth Boyd will entertain. Hostess: Committee. 16

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Perth and Kinross-shire

I can be reached at 63 Glasgow Road, Perth, PH2 0PE, by telephone on 01738 639598 or by email at pete.wishart.mp@parliament.uk

Pete Wishart MP

Perth and Kinross-shire - SNP Over recent weeks, I’ve been contacted by many constituents concerned about the situation at Cameron Court in Comrie. I’ve been working closely with Jim Fairlie MSP on this, including raising our concerns directly with Caledonia Housing Association. Jim has used his column this month to discuss Cameron Court in more detail, so I won’t repeat all of that here, other than to reassure readers that finding the best possible outcome for residents remains very much a priority for me. On a rather different subject, at the time of writing I’ve just submitted an application to the Let’s Celebrate Towns 2026 competition on behalf of Crieff. Run by Visa and Nationwide, the competition celebrates towns across the UK where local people, businesses and organisations are working together to strengthen their communities. Five winning towns will each receive £20,000 towards a community project. After careful consideration and discussion with some community representatives in Crieff, I nominated it in the Community Pride category - and I think anyone who knows the town will understand why. Crieff has a tremendous sense of identity. There is rightly great pride in its history, from its cattle-droving and market-town roots to its development as a Victorian holiday destination. That character remains visible in its historic streets and buildings and in wonderful places such as MacRosty Park, Lady Mary’s Walk and The Knock. Crieff Hydro and Glenturret attract visitors from far and wide, while the town boasts an extraordinary range of independent businesses and community organisations. What really made me choose Community Pride, though, was the people. There is ambition too. Experience Crieff is bringing businesses and organisations together to promote the town, while Creative Crieff is developing exciting cultural opportunities. Scotland’s Tartan Festival, with its theme ‘Culture Woven Together’, is a particularly good example - drawing on Crieff ’s historic links with weaving and textiles while creating something new for residents and visitors. Of course, Crieff has challenges like anywhere else. I have heard from constituents about the concerns around empty shops and antisocial behaviour, which can all affect the feeling of the town centre. But the determination to tackle those issues is precisely why I think Crieff deserves this recognition. The competition closes on Sunday, 25 October, with the shortlist to follow. I’ll keep readers updated when I hear more. For now, fingers crossed for Crieff! You can reach my office on 01738 639598 or at pete.wishart.mp@parliament.uk. Probus Club Auchterarder - You are invited to join Auchterarder Probus Club which is a social forum providing fellowship and friendship for like-minded people. It is not affiliated to a central organising body. We are a broad church with retired and semiretired professional people and others and comprise farmers, ministers, senior armed forces people, surgeons and marketing folk and engineers from a wide background. You will be most welcome. We meet twice a month in the winter and once a month in the summer. Meetings are held in the Auchterarder Golf Club and start at 12 noon with lunch at 12.30 pm followed by a guest speaker. Future speakers include Members of Parliament, Senior Officers from our Navy and Army plus local traders who want to tell their story. If you are interested in joining us please contact our Press Officer by email at forbesmcnaughton@icloud.com Comrie Silver Circle - Comrie Silver Circle meets every Thursday at 2 pm in Comrie Parish Church Hall. Entertainment and afternoon tea at 3 pm. All Welcome. Phone Myra if you need transport 01764 670166. 18

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Advertising Information

Café Comrie

Please note that all advertisements carried by The Crieff & Comrie 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 are published in good faith. However, for a variety of reasons, things can sometimes change. This edition of The Crieff & Comrie Quair was sent for print on Saturday, 12 September 2026. Please therefore always check times and venues of events listed in The Crieff & Comrie Quair independently before going. We cannot be held liable for any mistakes, typographical or otherwise, by ourselves or changes made by Event Organisers.

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Muthill Parish Church - Our Mission in Muthill Parish Church is to achieve a closer relationship with God and, as an ever-welcoming church family, to tell all we meet about the joys and challenges of following Jesus. Situated in the conservation village of Muthill, some three miles from Crieff, Muthill Parish Church is a Church of Scotland congregation providing all-age worship every Sunday morning at 10.30 am. Our services are led by a variety of guest preachers and after worship, there is always a lively time of fellowship over refreshments in our newly renovated Bruce Hall. As autumn continues, we have a range of weekly activities which include two exercise classes (general mobility/balance for seniors on a Tuesday afternoon and Tai Chi on a Thursday morning). Our Soup and Sandwich Lunches continue on Wednesdays at 12.30 pm with coffee available from 11 am and are open to the community. We further continue with our Men’s Group which meets over coffee on Wednesdays at 11 am and our Book Club has its review meeting every four to six weeks depending on the book chosen and this is held on a Wednesday evening. For those who want to explore and deepen their faith in a smaller group setting, we have a Bible class which meets weekly on a Tuesday morning and a house group which meets fortnightly on a Tuesday evening. Starting in October, we are also running The Bible Course which enables participants to explore the big story of the Bible, its key themes, characters and stories and to discover where we fit into it today. This eight-week course is the new edition of the original Bible Society course which has already been undertaken by over 140,000 Christians. It will start in early October on a Sunday afternoon, each session being 1.5 hours. It is open to any-

one interested and uses interactive videos, a guidebook contributed to by Bible experts, short group discussions and requires no preparation. Plans are also underway to hold a new Alpha course starting in January 2027 which will be aimed at enquirers about the Christian faith as well as committed Christians seeking to explore their faith further. Full details of our worship services, mission outreaches and the other organisational activities mentioned above can be found on our website, www.muthillparishchurch.co.uk. Our church building, which has flexible accommodation, including a large, comfortable sanctuary with AV facilities, a medium-sized hall and two smaller lounges, is available for rental for private functions throughout the year. Our grounds also have good parking. All are welcome to our Sunday worship as well as to any of our regular activities where you can be assured of a warm welcome. The Baha’i Faith - The Comrie and Crieff group is hosting an opportunity for open-hearted, joyful and hopeful conversations and reflection on quotes and prayers from all faiths, philosophies and beliefs every Tuesday, at 7.30 pm, in Comrie. These gatherings welcome all comers in the spirit of fellowship and friendship, uplifting our hearts and souls in our commitment to making the world a better place. The theme for October will be Faith. For further information please contact Diana on 07755 2312386 or Gordon on 07510 454342. ‘As ye have faith so shall your powers and blessings be.’ ‘Abdu’l-Baha The early morning gathering in the Crieff Community Garden for prayer for the people and plants in the garden and beyond will take a winter break as the mornings grow darker, but will continue at 10 am on the first Saturday of every month. The gathering is open to all ages, backgrounds, faiths and beliefs or none in a spirit of fellowship, harmony and appreciation. ‘It behoveth man to adhere tenaciously 22

unto that which will promote fellowship, kindliness and unity.’ Bahá’u’lláh.

Comrie Centre for Peace and Reconciliation

We are continuing to meet at the Chapel at Cultybraggan every Thursday lunchtime at 1 pm. You would be very welcome to join us then for a time of quiet reflection. Such reflection can support inner quiet and balance. In this way, when we consider the disturbing state of the world - instead of allowing fear or anger to take hold, we can be part of the solution. This opportunity is open to everyone, irrespective of faith tradition. Guidance for quiet sitting can be offered if needed. You are also welcome to sit in the chapel at other times - whenever you feel a need to be quiet and calm down. For further information, contact: Sister Candasiri 01764 670088; Su 07732 533361 or Diana Macpherson 07552 312386.

Crieff Baptist Church

At CBC we have weekly services on a Sunday morning at 10.30 am in our building on Addison Terrace. We are a welcoming, friendly church and our services reflect this by being fairly informal in style, with participation from various members of the congregation each week. We have children’s groups which run during the services (during term time) as well and tea & coffee are served after the service for a time of fellowship. Each week there are various home groups which run through the school term where we study the bible, pray together and encourage and support one another. For more information on any of these, please just get in touch. Our warm spaces group (Coorie & Crafts) is on Mondays from 12.30 pm to 2.30 pm. Come along for some tea, coffee and home baking. Everyone very welcome. Alpha Course - The Alpha Course is a wonderful opportunity to find out more about Christianity, to discuss faith and life and to invite friends and family along as we explore together. Starting on Thursday, 1

October, we are running an Alpha Course here at CBC. The course runs for 10 sessions from 7.30 pm to 9 pm. At each session we will watch a video from the Alpha UK team, discuss various topics around life, faith, purpose and the Christian message (with plenty of tea, coffee and home baking too!) For more information or to sign up, please visit www.crieffbaptist.org.uk/alphacourse. For further information on any of these events, or to get in touch with the minister, John Burns, please contact via crieffbaptist@ gmail.com; pastor@crieffbaptist.org.uk. Alternatively, you can keep up to date with all that’s happening in the church via our website (www.crieffbaptist.org.uk), on Facebook (Crieff Baptist Church) or on Instagram (crieff_baptist). Crieff Baptist Church, 1 Addison Terrace, Crieff PH7 3AT. Registered Scottish Charity SC053381

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number of Quaker Meetings in Scotland. Find out more at www.quaker.org.uk/meetings or www.discoveringquakers.org.uk. The nearest ones to Strathearn are Dunblane, which meets weekly on a Sunday at 10.30 am, and Perth, which meets fortnightly on the 2nd and last Sunday of the month at 11 am. A Quaker Meeting for Worship is also held monthly in Aberfeldy (dates are advertised locally and published in The Atholl & Breadalbane Quair). Children are welcome at these meetings, although advance notice is helpful. If you would like to know more, please contact the correspondence clerk at dunblane@quaker.scot.

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Mid Strathearn Parish - Mid Strat- beautiful building; it is a living, breathing hearn Parish in rural Perthshire was formed in 2018 with the Union of the congregations of Fowlis Wester, Gask, Madderty and Monzie Churches. As a family of Christian people we offer opportunities for regular worship and aim to serve our community through caring and involvement. We seek to be welcoming, open, warm and friendly, and look forward to welcoming you to our services.

St Fillan’s RC Parish Church

hub where heritage meets modern community spirit. Step inside on any given week, and you will find that the church is constantly buzzing with energy. While its architectural presence reminds us of Crieff ’s heritage and deep roots, the activities inside are entirely focused on the present and the future. From warm morning coffees for the young and young at heart, lively toddler groups to local community group meetings and quiet spaces for personal reflection, the church has evolved into a versatile sanctuary for everyone in Strathearn. What makes Crieff Parish Church truly unique today is its open-door philosophy. It is a space where old traditions are respected, but new ways of connecting are actively embraced. Whether you are looking to enjoy uplifting music from our Praise Band, a message from one of our worship leaders, seeking a supportive network during tough times, or simply wanting to sit in peace with a warm drink, the welcome is always the same: unconditional and genuinely warm. As our town continues to grow and change, Crieff Parish Church remains a steadfast anchor. It reminds us that no matter how digital or chaotic life gets, face-to-face connection and community care never go out of style. Next time you pass by, don’t just admire the view from the outside step in, see what’s happening, and find your own space in Crieff ’s shared story. Crieff Parish Church Every Sunday at 11 am. www.crieffparishchurch.org.

Parish of St Fillan’s RC Church, Crieff & St Margaret’s RC Church Comrie Ford Road, Crieff PH7 3HN. Parish Priest - Very Rev Fr. Dr Tobias O. Okoro. email stfillancrieff@dunkelddiocese.org.uk A warm welcome is extended to all parishioners, friends and visitors. Please join us for any of the Masses and/or Services. Saturday Vigil Mass 5.30 pm in St Fillan’s. Crieff Sunday Mass 9.30 am in St Margaret’s Church. Comrie Sunday Mass 11 am in St Fillan’s Church, Crieff. Due to the ongoing flood defence repair work over the last year, St Margaret’s Church, Comrie has not been used and Mass has been celebrated in Comrie Rural Hall. All being well, we shall return to the church for Mass on the last weekend of September or beginning of October. However, people are asked to check the parish website and notices for accuracy. Grateful thanks are extended to the Committee of Comrie Rural Hall for agreeGlenartney Church Service ing to let us use the hall during this time. Sunday, 11 October for the harvest thanksgiving service 3 pm. All are welcome! Crieff Parish Church What3Words location for the church is www.crieffparishchurch.org In a fast-paced world, finding a place that ///result.stag.slippery grounds you can feel like a rare discovery. Yet, right in the heart of our community, on the corner of Strathearn Terrace and Ferntower Road, Crieff Parish Church stands as a vibrant bridge between our rich history of over 150 years and our modern daily lives. It is much more than a 24

Parish Churches of Comrie and Dundurn, Church of Scotland

‘Following Jesus. Sharing Hope. Welcoming all.’ Service times - First Sunday of the month at Dundurn Kirk at 10.30 am with other Sundays at Comrie Kirk at 10.30 am. These times may change at certain times eg Easter and Christmas. Details of these times can be found on our Facebook page or by emailing sessionclerkcpc@btinternet.com. We live stream our Comrie Kirk services. These can be found via our YouTube channel or the link on our Facebook page. We currently have no streaming facilities at Dundurn Kirk. Minister: Rev Craig Dobney. The Manse, Strowan Road, Comrie, PH6 2ES. Tel: 07864 366856 Email: cdobney@churchofscotland.org.uk Session Clerk: Mrs Pauline Booth. Tel: 07803 461188 Email: sessionclerkcpc@ btinternet.com Office contact details and church hall bookings: comrie.dundurnchurch@gmail. com Facebook: Comrie & Dundurn Parish Church YouTube: Comrie & Dundurn Parish Church: @cdparishchurch

St James Episcopal Church, Muthill

www.stjamesmuthill.com stjamesmuthill@gmail.com Priest in Charge: Rev. Rachael Wright As the leaves have started to turn and even fall from the trees, a new season in the 190year history of St James has also been beginning. My name is Rachael and I am the new minister of this wonderful church in Muthill. I’ve lived in Strathearn since 2017 and am delighted to also now be able to work with the communities here. For me, the Christian story is one of love - of a God who is love, and whose love overflowed into creating human beings and the whole wondrous universe. That love continues to flow through all things and was particularly

made real to us in Jesus: God with us, in the midst of this messy and sometimes seemingly broken world. I think that that love is available to us all and that we can connect to it in all kinds of ways. In church we connect with God who is Love through prayer, sharing, listening, music, beauty, and community. I find, more and more, that it is easiest to step into the flow of God’s love when I am outdoors. It’s one of the reasons that working in a rural community is important and exciting for me - I can see God in the changing colours, the fruits of harvest, the clear crisp mornings and starry night skies. Last month in St James we marked the Season of Creation - a time when Christians all over the world particularly focus on giving thanks for the beauty of nature and commit to its care. We thought about the connection between conflict and the climate crisis, about forgiveness (what do human beings need to be forgiven for by creation?), about action over empty talk. And finally, we gave thanks for the harvest

and those in our community who work so hard to bring it in. At St James we understand that love is a verb, a doing word. We have to act on what we say. We have to love creatively like God does. All are welcome to join us at our services on Sunday evenings at 5.30 pm where you are sure of a warm welcome and space to explore what this love means for us all. I look forward to meeting folks over the coming weeks and months - please do say hello if you see me out and about!

with questions for all ages. Fancy dress (theme: A Touch of Pink) is encouraged, with prizes for adult and child winners and for runners-up. Tickets cost £7.50 per adult or £5 per concession and include refreshments. Children under 5 are free. Please purchase your tickets using the QR code or in person from the Crieff Cancer Research shop.

Nostalgic Family Tea Party in aid of Cancer Research UK

The team at the Cancer Research shop on Crieff High Street will be hosting a Nostalgic Family Tea Party on Sunday, 1 November to raise funds for the charity’s annual Stand Up to Cancer campaign. Promising to be a fun-filled afternoon for old and young alike, the event will be held in the Ferntower Suite at Crieff Hydro from 2 pm to 4.30 pm. Expect village fête-style games, a tombola, a professional photo booth, live music and a Family Quiz

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Crieff and Strathearn Museum

As autumn arrives, another busy season at Crieff and Strathearn Museum is drawing to an end - but there is still time to pay us a visit before we close for the winter on 25 October. There is plenty to see. Our exhibitions this year range from the Picts, with some fascinating artefacts, to Strathearn’s railways, Girl Guiding, Rob Roy MacGregor and the Glen Lednock Hydro Scheme, as well as the Crieff monuments. There are also children’s activities and vintage toys to enjoy. Entry is free, although donations are always gratefully received. Over the summer we have welcomed more than 2,500 people through our doors, some from around the world and others from just around the corner. One of the pleasures of running a local museum is that visitors often bring history with them. People come in with stories and memories, questions about family or business connections in the area, or simply a curiosity about something they have seen in one of our displays. We are always delighted when we can help. Our collection continues to grow too, thanks to the generosity of people who donate items to the museum. Not everything that matters in a museum is visible to visitors, however. An important development this year has been the installation of specialist humidity and damp-control measures in our basement, helping us to look after the collection properly for the future. This was made possible by grant funding from the Perth and Kinross Council Community Led Local Development Fund. We are also very grateful to the Gannochy Trust for its continuing support. Another real success this year has been our programme of early-evening talks, most of which have been fully subscribed. Colin Crawford took us into the world of community football, Dave Ferguson explored Strathearn’s railways, Margaret Roy brought 19th-century Crieff to life, and Andrew Scobie considered the devastating impact of the Spanish Flu epidemic.

There is still one more talk to come. On Thursday 8 October, John Cowie will be looking at the coinage of Mary Queen of Scots. With examples of some rare Scottish coins to examine, he will explore a rather intriguing question: what can these small pieces of silver and bullion tell us about Scotland at the time - and about the remarkable life of the Queen herself ? Reserve places at the Museum, or at info@ crieffandstrathearnmuseum.org.uk. Free to members, non-members by donation. Finally, a big thank-you to our enthusiastic team of volunteers and trustees. Quite simply, without them there would be no museum. So, if you haven’t visited us yet this year, why not drop in before the Toon Clock doors close for the winter? You may be surprised by just how many stories are waiting

Comrie Sing-a-long - Comrie Sing-a-

long is now in its 15th year. If you have never come to try us out - maybe 2026 is the right time. We meet in Comrie and Dundurn Parish Church in Burrell Street, Comrie and we have plenty of parking, ramp access, wheelchairs and assistance. We start singing at 2 pm, large print song books are provided. It is up to you whether you sing, tap your feet, shake a tambourine or just listen - no special skills are required. Our songbooks are full of old, well-loved songs and hymns and rhymes, you will probably have sung them ‘at your Mother’s knee’ or to your own children. The Sing-along team will serve afternoon tea at 3 pm and hopefully send you on your way happy, well fed and ready for the rest of your day. We meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month…there are posters and banners up in Comrie and I can send you a personal invitation reminder if required. There is transport available within Comrie. (Sorry, just Comrie). Our goal is to bring people together, create a warm and friendly event where everyone is welcome, where you can meet old friends and make lots of new ones. Please contact Màiri for more information, 28

on tel. 07707 727137. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Tayside And Strathearn Help for Ukraine (TASH )

Our charity to help civilians in Ukraine, based at Errol Airfield is busy storing and packing donated items for the intense cold that was experienced there last winter. As you can appreciate from the photo, snow lies for weeks on end and therefore nourishment in the form of Tinned food in particular is paramount. We are being asked for the following: Tinned Porridge, Soups, Tinned meat and fish, Canned fruit and vegetables. Packets of porridge, pasta , cup a soups, sugar , tea and coffee. Lack of light and heating makes Torches, Batteries, Mobile power points, 8-hour Tea lights, Candles and Hot water bottles essential commodities. Some people have no running water so wet wipes for washing, toiletries, and all manner of sanitary products are fundamental necessities. If you can manage to donate some of these , there are 2 collection points in Crieff, the Adventist Church, Gwydyr Rd on Tuesdays from 1 pm to 2 pm and Blythswood Local Charity Shop at 10 High Street on Tuesdays or Fridays from 10 am to 4 pm. Blythswood has specifically asked for Government Baby Boxes & Baby supplies including Nappies, and Wipes. For those of you in the Aberfeldy area, the Steamie has a collection point from where our van can collect and bring to Errol. If you would like more information about Tayside and Strathearn Help for Ukraine, you contact us at info@tash4ukraine.org. uk. We are also on Facebook and Instagram @tash4Ukraine. Our next fundraiser is a coffee morning in the North Church, High St, Perth on Saturday, 14 November from 10 am to 12 pm.

The Arts Society Tayside

Our new lecture season is upon us and on 14 September, we heard from Marilyn Elm on The Art of the Garden Indoors. On Monday, 12 October we have Christina Faraday on Clocks in Art and Literature and on Monday, 9 November we will hear from Simon Inglis on Sir Henry Wood, Master Musician. There are a further nine fascinating monthly lectures after this to look forward to. For our full programme, please visit our website at theartssocietytayside.org.uk On Friday, 23 October we have a special interest day on silver from well-known BBC Antiques Roadshow expert Gordon Foster, to which, after the lecture, members will bring their own items for discussion. On Thursday, 21 January, Thursday, 28 January and Thursday, 4 February we will run our usual series of Winter Lectures in Perth to be delivered by the National Trust for Scotland. Our summer 2027 house and garden visits programme is also taking shape with a visit to Kinnaird Castle and Dunnaird Castle and Gardens. 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 addon days and lectures. Join now for the new lecture season and get the full value from your membership. Membership is unchanged at £68 for an individual for the year, or £130 for a couple. Please contact us at tastmembership@ gmail.com or tastchair@gmail.com, or come along to Birnam Arts on Monday, 12 October before 11 am, either to join for the full year or attend as a guest for £10, refundable against membership if you join after the lecture.

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What to expect from a complimentary hearing assessment at The Edinburgh Hearing Practice

Most hearing centers will measure the quietest sounds that you can hear and based on this will make a recommendation. Although this type of hearing test provides useful information, by no means does it provide a full picture, we hear with our ears but it is our brain that understands speech! With this in mind, we have designed our test protocol to ensure that we measure your exact individual issues. First and foremost, we will listen to you. Hearing loss is personal and we take the time to listen to your experience. We recommend that you bring someone with you as they can often provide useful information and support. Our hearing assessments usually take about 90 minutes. We will ask some medical related questions so that we have a good understanding of your general health and history. Next we will examine your ears. We have the latest technology and can show you images of your ears on a screen if you are interested in seeing exactly what we are looking at. 30

We thoroughly Wecheck thoroughly your ears check using your state ears ofusing the art state video of the art video equipment and equipment keep the and images keeponthe your images records on so your werecords can so we can keep track of keep your track ear health. of your ear health. If your ears are If your blocked earswith are blocked wax yourwith hearing wax your test will hearing not be test will not be accurate. You’re accurate. in safeYou’re hands in atsafe the Edinburgh hands at the Hearing Edinburgh Hearing very latest audiometric very latestequipment audiometrictoequipment record the to quietest record the quietest sounds that you sounds can hear, that you but can alsohear, importantly, but also the importantly, way that the way that

both quiet and both in the quiet presence and in the of the presence dreaded of background the dreadednoise. background noise. Where appropriate, Where we appropriate, perform tympanometry we perform tympanometry to check howto the check middle how ear the is middle workingear (this is working is a really(this is a really simple comfortable simple test, comfortable and is nothing test, and to be is nothing nervoustoabout). be nervous about). At each stageAt weeach will stage explain wethe willresults explain really the results thoroughly reallytothoroughly you and make to you sure and that make everything sure that is everything is completely clear. completely clear. Occasionally we Occasionally may feel that we may onward feel referral that onward is required referral – this is required is unusual, – this but is you unusual, can trust but you us tocan always trustdo us to alway the right thing. the right thing.

Our care plans are bespoke and suited around your individual needs and preferences. All our hearings aids are available to trial for 30 days at no cost. We believe that the proof is in the pudding! We are a family owned and run business and we love what we do. Trust your hearing to us!

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Open Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 4 pm; late night opening Thursday until 6 pm. Want to find out more? Check www. remakescotland.co.uk; Contact: info@ remakescotland.co.uk or give us a call on 01764 655733. New Home for Remake? Plans are progressing for our likely move to the Bargain Buys building in Crieff. We expect to be closing our shop, Tool Library and Mending Circle towards the end of this year for a few weeks to reopen all services at the new location. Please note that details are yet to be confirmed so do check our website, Facebook and Instagram for any updates. Until then, we look forward to seeing you and offering all our usual services at our Reuse Hub by the Visitor Centre. The People’s Emergency Briefing Thursday, 8 October at 7 pm Strathearn Arts. Screening of the powerful documentary presented by Chris Peckham, which follows up on the National Emergency Briefing in 2025 when leading experts presented climate change data and solutions to political leaders in Westminster. There will be a brief Q&A after the screening to discuss impacts and solutions locally. Mending Circle - Let’s Make Mending Fun! Join us every Saturday morning from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm at our Reuse Hub. Join our group of like-minded people breathing new life into their loved items. Repair Hub - Our next Repair Hub is on Saturday, 10 October, 10 am to 1 pm at Strathearn Community Library in Crieff. Bring along small electricals and household items, computers, appliances, clothes, textiles and accessories. All repairs done by volunteers and free (donations towards costs are welcome). Sewing machine repairs are by appointment only. Please email marie-claire@ remakescotland.co.uk in advance to book your sewing machine in for repair. Remake Reuse Hub - Crieff Visitor Centre, Muthill Road, Crieff. Pop in to explore

our fantastic range of second-hand furniture, art, vintage as well as DIY, craft and sewing materials. Enough to inspire creative projects for all ages. Want to donate large furniture items, clearing a house or downsizing? Please email jake@remakescotland.co.uk and we can also organise a visit and collection. Tool Library - Getting into the garden work and home DIY this autumn? Why not look borrow items from our community tool library! Over 400 items available and all rentals are donations based. Volunteering Have some spare time and want to join a fun, community team? We are always excited to welcome new members! Please get in touch via info@remakescotland.co.uk to learn more about the various roles available.

Friends of Crieff Cemetery

We invite the public to come along to our War Graves Tour on Saturday, 7 November at 2 pm, when we will remember the service personnel memorialised or buried in Crieff Cemetery.

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Lady Mary’s Walk parkrun - August gave us plenty to celebrate at Lady Mary’s Walk parkrun. Throughout August, over 500 people volunteered, walked, jogged or ran the course, while later in the month we celebrated several of our volunteers’ major milestones at parkrun, including two celebrating 250 volunteering Saturdays and Linda celebrating her 500th! Every week depends on people lending a hand, and we would love to welcome some new volunteers. You don’t need previous experience or a running background. You could marshal along the route, hand out finish tokens or scan barcodes. We’ll show you what to do, and helping occasionally is always very welcome. To get involved, email ladymaryswalk@ parkrun.com with a Saturday you’re available, or speak to the Run Director at an event. If you would rather try the course, our free 5k starts at 9.30 am every Saturday. Register once on the parkrun website, bring your barcode and arrive a little early for a welcome and an explanation of the route. Walkers are especially welcome. There is no time limit, and our tail walker stays at the back, so there is no need to worry about keeping up. Come on your own or bring a friend, enjoy the riverside paths and join us for a chat afterwards. We’d love to see you.

Cultybraggan Camp History Project

The Project was founded in 2017 to preserve the history and the fabric of the camp, working wherever possible with the camp owners at the time. Our members include academics and volunteers who are dedicated to investigate and document in central resources all aspects of the camp’s past. We believe the camp is of importance to the nation and not just the local village. It is our ambition to create an online fund of knowledge to be preserved for hundreds of years and beyond. This includes all stories, documents, photographs and images, which will be assembled into a virtual museum. There may also be a virtual guided tour of the camp showing the various artefacts as one explores and possibly an ‘App’ for mobile phones. We continue in discussion with other organisations doing similar work to us, which is proving mutually beneficial. We are very conscious that a lot of currently existing web material is vanishing, to be lost forever. Those digital records and stories will prove very interesting in hundreds of years’ time. We are working with groups and universities to endeavour to create permanent national reservoirs of all this material. Our members are the experts at guiding tours, giving talks and supporting authors, historians and filmmakers, allowing them direct access to our resources and personnel. Now in our eighth year, we provide illustrated talks to many groups including organisations and institutes, colleges, schools, Probus, Rotary and Local History clubs. We can do these in person or online and in hybrid situations with an audience and online. We are planning a series of free online talks over winter - see the Events page of our website. If you’d like one of our talks delivered personally, please email us at tours@camp21.org.uk. There is a wealth of information for the public to view and download on our website at camp21.org.uk. C

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Cycle Crieff Charity SCO54428 - Our aim is to support all aspects of cycling in the

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area. We’re not a commercial business, we’re an inclusive community, for all. What We Do Routes, Repairs & Reuse/donations - *Affordable access to cycling: Low-cost or free bikes are provided through donations, recycling & rebuilding. Need a bike but limited funds? We can help! *Repairs & Workshop Support: A flexible community workshop offers servicing, self-repair space, guidance from highly qualified mechanics, & donated new & pre-used parts such as lights, wheels, tyres etc. *Routes & Riding Community: Rides focus on inclusion & social connection. Local routes and cuppas to longer challenges all offered by the community. *Training & Education: ongoing ‘look after your bike’ workshops with families, individuals, Cubs, schools, refugees & Cadets. In-house training and Velotech funding. *Volunteering! Want to contribute to your community? Flexible volunteer places available, full training and support. You get a free bike and kit! Crieff Cycle Community A’ (easy social), ‘B’ & ‘C’ Rides (plus time trials!) There are regular bi-monthly social rides and rides instigated by local riders. The next bi-monthly social ride is Sunday, 11 October with Seonaid R & Andy G, Saturday, 24 October with Gavin & Blair. Community focus - Bike packages continue to be supplied to families and individuals, thanks to the donations from the community. Direct donation via email is the best method if you want to make sure your bike reaches us. 22 bikes have been saved from landfill this month and 10 bikes moved on to help those who couldn’t afford a bike otherwise. We continue Dr Bike and Maintenance courses, just get in touch if you want to take part. Come & have a look if you need a ‘new to you’ bike, tyres, tubes, lights, chains etc. Grab a bargain to keep cycling! Finally - Despite being a charity we often contribute to other causes and we are selling a popular local cyclist’s bike and returning anything raised to MacMillan Cancer Support. Look on our FB and Instagram to see the lovely Basso! Please get in touch if you want to know more or get involved in our adventures! Visit our website www.cyclecrieff.scot/about.html. Facebook www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100067081600855. Email - cyclecrieff@yahoo.com Crieff Banking Hub - The Crieff Banking Hub is now operating from its permanent home at 17 High Street, Crieff, PH7 3HU. The Hub is open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. A Community Banker from your own bank is available on these days: Monday: Santander, 9 am to 4 pm, Tuesday: Virgin Money, 9.15 am to 4.45 pm Wednesday: TSB, 9 am to 5 pm, Thursday: Royal Bank of Scotland, 10 am to 5 pm, Friday: Bank of Scotland, 9 am to 5 pm. When the Hub is open, you can use counter services to withdraw or deposit cash, pay in cheques, check your balance, top up utilities and more. Please note - Community Bankers may be unavailable over lunchtime as they take a break. Always check up to date details at www.cashaccess.co.uk/hubs/crieff-perth-and-kinross Strathearn Arts - Strathearn Arts (Strathearn Artspace SC044319) is a registered charity which aims to promote and advance the arts, culture and heritage through participation and enjoyment of the creative arts. See www.strathearnarts.org for more details. 34

35

Crieff Community Council

After acknowledging the town’s views on the future of the Drummond Arms site and responses to plans from Historic Environment Scotland, PKC has now accepted that affordable housing is no longer a viable option, the September meeting of Crieff Community Council heard. ‘This is a victory for common sense, we’ve got what we wanted and we must now press ahead to come up with a suitable option that will work best for the town,’ CCC Chairman Brian Wilton told the meeting. The news was announced by PKC’s John Beveridge. He emphasised that the affordability of any agreed future proposal was paramount and announced they will work further with the community, starting with nominated representatives, to revisit and reappraise favoured options identified in the earlier consultation process. In parallel with looking at the Drummond Arms site, plans for the future of the old Crieff Primary School site will also be considered and suitable options formulated. The meeting also considered the proposed PKC visitor levy, which is currently going through a consultation process. The proposal is for a £4 per room per night levy, which would be £4.80 for VAT-registered businesses. Concerns have been raised by the Crieff and Strathearn Tourism Alliance on the negative impact the proposal would have on businesses in the area. Among its objections is that the levy would create an unfair competitive advantage for certain types of accommodation providers, that small businesses are being tasked with the cost of administering, charging and accounting for the levy, and the levy would be included as business income for tax purposes. There are also no clear figures on what would be raised after the cost of administration and enforcement was taken into account, and what would be put back into generating more tourism to the area. If you want to express your views on the levy, please go to the PKC website for more information.

Councillor Stuart Donaldson reported that an agreement with landowners along the proposed active travel path between Crieff and Comrie has been reached, an exciting milestone. Work is now progressing on the path’s design. The Crieff Food Festival will begin on Saturday, 10 October at The Steading, with 30 market stalls and lots of family entertainment all day. Nineteen venues have signed up over the following week to host food and drink activities across the town, with the festival ending on a high with a community bake-off in James Square on Sunday, 18 October. It was also confirmed that there will be a Hallowe’en pumpkin and fancy dress competition again this year, with details to come. The next CCC meeting will be on Monday, 5 October at 7.30 pm at the Strathearn Campus. All are welcome to attend. If you want to know more or you’re keen to help the CCC, please email criefftoun@ gmail.com or call 07874 774464.

Your Crieff Your Voice: Community Action Plan and Local Place Plan

Thank you to everyone who has responded to the community engagement activities the Your Crieff Your Voice team have been running over recent months. The response has been fantastic with hundreds of residents, businesses, community groups and stakeholders sharing their views through a range of engagement activities including community visits, workshops, focus groups, the Have Your Say Day and an extensive public survey that received more than 500 responses. The information gathered through all of these conversations and activities will be analysed and used to identify the key priorities for the town. While the final themes will not be confirmed until this analysis is complete, likely areas of discussion include issues such as housing, jobs and enterprise, community facilities, transport and the natural environment. The next step will take place on Saturday, 31 October, when we are asking the community to come together again to hear 36

what people have said and agree on the direction of travel for Crieff ’s future. The event will give residents the opportunity to review and discuss proposed projects under each theme and help agree a final list of priorities for inclusion in the Community Action Plan and Local Place Plan. Participants will also be invited to work with maps of the town to identify where future land-based developments and projects could be located, including potential sites for housing, business and industrial development, new green spaces and other community infrastructure. Brian Wilton, Chair of Crieff Community Council and Co-Chair of the Community Action Plan and Local Place Plan Steering Committee said, ‘The response from the community so far has been fantastic. Hundreds of people have already taken the time to share their ideas, concerns and ambitions for Crieff. The event on Saturday, 31 October will be an important opportunity to bring all of that information together, discuss what we’ve heard and agree on a shared set of priorities that can guide the town’s future development. We hope as many people as possible will come along and be part of the conversation.’ Further details about the venue, timing and programme for the event will be placed on Crieff Community Trust’s website www. crieffcommunitytrust.com and displayed on posters around the town. Save the Date - Community Action Plan and Local Place Plan Community Event on Saturday, 31 October. Please come along to hear what the community has said, help shape the priorities for Crieff and play your part in creating a shared vision for the future of the town.

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Jim Fairlie MSP Perthshire South & Kinross-shire - SNP

Many readers will already be aware of the considerable concern in Comrie about Caledonia Housing Association’s plans for Cameron Court and the wider sheltered housing provision in the village. I completely understand that concern. For the residents themselves, and particularly for their families and friends, this isn’t an abstract discussion about housing models or service provision. Cameron Court is their home, and the support and familiar faces around them provide security and reassurance. Any suggestion of that changing is understandably worrying. Readers may have seen that Pete Wishart MP and I wrote jointly to Caledonia as soon as we became aware of the proposals. We made clear our opposition and raised concerns about the impact on vulnerable residents, the apparent gap that could be created between independent living and more intensive care, and whether every possible alternative had been properly explored. We also questioned the sustainability argument when Cameron Court has vacancies which Caledonia has chosen not to fill while its review has been underway. We asked Caledonia to look at whether greater occupancy, different funding arrangements, alternative models of support and closer working with public agencies could provide another way forward. Pete and I subsequently met Caledonia Chief Executive Julie Cosgrove and colleagues to discuss these concerns directly. We were assured that there is no set date for changes at Cameron Court and, importantly, that existing services will continue during this period. We were also told that no tenant will be moved from their home against their will. Those assurances were welcome. Since then, around 250 people attended the public meeting in Comrie, which demonstrated just how strongly the community feels. Caledonia has indicated that it is willing to consider alternative models and work with the community and other partners. However, there does still appear to be some confusion about exactly where matters now stand. The community understandably wants to know whether this is a genuine opportunity to develop an alternative that could change the eventual outcome, or whether Caledonia is simply preparing for a transition it has already decided will happen. Pete and I will continue pursuing that clarification. Above all, we will continue standing up for Cameron Court’s residents and doing everything we can to ensure they remain safe, supported and protected from unwanted disruption. There is clearly tremendous determination within Comrie to find a solution, and we will continue working with the community to achieve that. If any readers need to get in touch with me, please do so by emailing jim.fairlie.msp@parliament.scot.

Crieff & Comrie Sight & Hearing enjoy tea and coffee, hear from local speakers, and share helpful hints and tips with Loss Support Groups

Do you live with sight or hearing loss? Would you enjoy meeting others in a friendly and supportive environment? VisionPK runs welcoming local support groups in Crieff and Comrie where you can meet new people,

others who understand the challenges of sight and hearing loss. Family members, friends and carers are also very welcome. Comrie Group - Every second Tuesday of the month, 10 am to 11.30 am. The Lounge, Cameron Court, Almond Place, Comrie, PH6 2BB 38

Crieff Group - In partnership with the Macular Society. First Monday of the month. 10 am to 12 noon. St Andrew’s Parish Church of Scotland, Strathearn Terrace, Crieff, PH7 3AQ. New members always welcome. We would also love to hear from anyone interested in volunteering locally or helping to raise funds to support the groups. For more information contact VisionPK; Telephone: 01738 626969; Email: info@ visionpk.org.uk

Crieff Fifty Plus Club Our next monthly meetings are on Wednesday, 7 October and Wednesday, 4 November at 2.30 pm in St Columba’s Church, Perth Road. The talk on 7 October is by Iain Brown talking who will talk about ‘Crieff in Leaf’ and on 4 November is by Brian Wilton MBE on the subject of the Crieff Community Council.

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Rob McInroy - Barvick Falls

We’ve covered Crieff-born writer Rob McInroy’s books in The Quair before, particularly Moot, a historical novel set during the third International Rover Scout Moot, which took place in the grounds of Monzie Castle in July 1939. Since then, he has published Barvick Falls, which is again set entirely in Crieff, this time at the start of World War Two. It features a sinister local schoolteacher, Lorna Carrington and a feisty Glaswegian evacuee, Ellen Laing. Everybody knows something about Lorna Carrington, but nobody knows everything. And if they did, they’d be very, very frightened. The novel is about whether people will realise what Lorna Carrington is capable of before she does something truly terrible. We caught up with Rob and asked him how Barvick Falls had been received. “Really well,” he told us. “It was shortlisted this year for a Crime Writers’ Association award for best historical novel. It’s proved very successful and I hope it’s given Crieff a wee bit of publicity.” Rob was born in Crieff and always uses Perthshire as the backdrop for his novels. “People of my parents’ generation, who lived in Crieff through the war, are dying off now,” he told us, “and I want to remind everyone of what life was like back then.” He gave us a sneak preview of what’s coming up next. “The new book will be out later this year. It’s a story about outsiders and how life can be made very difficult for people who don’t conform. It features Ellen Laing again, the Glaswegian schoolgirl from Barvick Falls, and this time she gets into even more trouble.” You can find out more about Rob’s books on his website at www.robmcinroy.co.uk

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Make a Festive Date for A Spanner in the Works - Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without Crieff Drama Group’s festive show on Saturday, 5 December in Strathearn Arts, Comrie Street. Their new show, A Spanner in the Works features a host of well-loved characters plus one or two new ones. So, what’s going on? Productivity is down at the North Pole and there’s a backlog of presents to make and wrap by Christmas Eve. What will the elves do? Can Santa solve the problem with the help of his friend, Professor Sparks? And what happens when someone puts a spanner in the works? Performances are at 2 pm, 3 pm and 4 pm - So be prepared to join in, shout out and maybe even sing along. It’s a short, fun show designed for younger children (or anyone who still believes in Santa). Crieff Drama Group strives to make these shows available to all, so tickets are priced at a nominal £1 per seat. There is no charge made for infants who do not require their own seat. Tickets will be available to book online at www.crieffdramagroup.co.uk from Saturday, 24 October or in person from Fun Junction, 4 High Street, Crieff (cash only). Don’t forget the show date. Remember, Remember the 5th of December. Comrie Community Woodland

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Our Woodland is thriving on a north-facing hillside 300 metres west of Cultybraggan Camp on south side of the road. The forty-five acre site was bought for the Community along with the Camp in 2007. Unique features are the irrigation system built in 1941 to supply water to the new POW camp below and the site’s overall shape - about 1 km long yet only 100 meters wide in places. It was used for sheep grazing until 2021 when twenty thousand native trees were planted and hundreds more since. Reviews and studies of trees, plants, fungi, birds, insects, mammals and other creatures have taken place and the species count now exceeds 740! Responsible visitors, subject to Scottish Outdoor Access Code, are always encouraged to report their own findings or just enjoy the site and views. Visitors see differences week by week from overall growth and natural effects of the seasons. Looking beyond our woodland, you may see migrating birds purposeful flight across the sky. Third Sundays of each month are our normal volunteering days when anyone is welcome to join us while we perform a variety of maintenance tasks. But this month is different! It’s the second Sunday (Sunday, 11 October) to avoid clashing with Apple Day. Projects include clearing paths, checking fencing, signage, bridges, benches and picnic tables and removal of vegetation threatening tree growth. We welcome volunteers of all ages and abilities with activities for children accompanied by a responsible adult. Sessions start at 10 am and continue till about 3 pm with a break for lunch. We advise wearing sound, waterproof footwear and bringing a packed lunch and drinks. We have a good stock of all the tools needed and our regulars provide helpful guidance and instruction. There is limited parking at the site with plenty more at Cultybraggan Camp. See us online at www.facebook.com/groups/comriecommunitywoodland and direct any questions to woodland@comriedevtrust.org.uk. Comrie Apple Day - A Taste of Autumn at Comrie Apple Day on Sunday, 18 October 11 am to 2 pm. A popular family event held next to the Community Orchard at Cultybraggan Camp. Delicious fresh and pasteurised apple juice, a big selection of cooking and eating apples to sample and buy, apple pressing, children’s activities and food stalls. Come early to avoid disappointment. Cash only 42

Campbell’s Bakery - Campbell’s Bak-

ery was founded in Callander in 1830 by Donald Campbell. His great grandson, Bob Campbell, moved it to Crieff in 1929 (Bob was one of the first people in Crieff to have a motorised vehicle, which he used on his ‘roll round’ delivery service for people who couldn’t make it to the shop). The Comrie shop opened in 2013. Iain first stepped into the bakery when he was 11 years old, scraping trays and sweeping floors - the beginning of a lifetime in the trade. He was raised on the values of hard, honest graft and working as a team. Bestselling products are (and always have been!) Scotch pies, fudge doughnuts, strawberry tarts and softies. The strawberry tarts and Scotch pies have recently gone viral on social media with a post of Iain asking, ‘How do you eat your strawberry tart?’ then eating it in a oner! The ‘pie’ post has re-ignited the old question about ‘A pie on a roll? Aye or Naw?’ (Both posts have had over 30K views with hundreds of comments!) And even more recently the wee Highland Coo cakes have taken off massively, especially with tourists. Iain’s guiding mantra (learned through years of trial and error) to keep his business alive is to listen to his customers and ‘Give them what they want’. Simple really. Campbells from Canada and America who are tracing their family origins come to the bakery for baking classes and demonstrations (shortbread, oatcakes and Scotch pies, amongst others) and the baking classes are now really taking off, leading the way for the future. It is fast becoming an experience of choice for tourists looking for something different.

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Strathearn Arts What’s On

Buy tickets online at www.strathearnarts. org. Our welcome desk opens 30 minutes prior to each event, and you can purchase tickets for any upcoming show at this time. We do recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment, as popular events can sell out! Thursday, 8 October - 7.30 pm. Free. Film: The People’s Emergency Briefing. Join Climate Cafe Crieff and local environmental charity Remake Scotland for a screening of The People’s Emergency Briefing; a powerful and thought-provoking documentary presented by Chris Packham. Following the film, stay for a special Q&A and community conversation with local leaders and guests from across Strathearn. Together we’ll reflect on the issues raised, share local perspectives, and explore how our community can respond with creativity, resilience and hope. Saturday, 10 October - 7.30 pm. £21. Comedy: Fred MacAulay. Now in the fourth decade of his comedy career, Fred MacAulay still loves being on stage doing what he does best ...... quite simply it’s stand-up and his appetite for performing is as strong as it was all those years ago when he took a massive sideways step from a career as an Accountant and Company Secretary into the world of entertainment. Saturday, 17 October - 7.30 pm. £16/£13. Dance: Deiseil - Dancing in Time. Deiseil: Dancing in Time is a powerful exploration of how stepdance, Scotland’s percussive dance, was lost to us … and how its revival, drawn from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, became woven into a lifelong friendship. Experience a compelling journey across centuries of tradition told through fiddle, feet, Gaelic song and story, in an immersive performance which draws you into the heart of a rich heritage. Thursday, 22 October - 7.30 pm. £10. Film: The Man with the Plan. A young student, Flea, discovers the 1942 Beveridge report - and its comprehensive vision for a better society. We follow Flea’s fantastical journey as it takes her amongst Beveridge’s

Five Giants - Want, Disease, Squalor, Idleness and Ignorance and the whirl of politicians, ineffective policies and missed opportunities across the decades since 1942. Following the screening, actor Neil Gore who plays ‘Want’ in the film will discuss the making of The Man with The Plan, from its development and production to its message as a call to action. Thursday, 29 October - 7.30 pm. £10 / £3. Film: Midwinter Break. Stella (Lesley Manville) and Gerry (Ciaran Hinds) are a retired Irish couple who have settled in Glasgow. Seeking adventure, the duo embark on a cultural holiday to Amsterdam - but a confronting revelation from Stella threatens to put their relationship at a precarious crossroads. Sunday, 1 November - 2 pm. £5. Dance: Tea Dance. Hasan Hadi’s critically lauded drama, and Iraq’s submission for Best International Feature at the Oscars, follows in the life of a nine-year-old girl who must prepare her school’s cake for the birthday of dictator Saddam Hussein. Sunday, 8 November - 4 pm. £10 / £3. Film: Glenrothan. Donal (Alan Cumming) embarks on a homecoming visit to his native Scotland - and comes face-to-face with his straight-talking estranged big brother Sandy (Brian Cox). Their momentous reunion is further complicated when Sandy announces his resignation as head of the Glen Nairn distillery - unexpectedly appointing his younger brother as his successor.

Inner Link Club of Comrie - We meet at 10.30 am in the large Comrie Parish Church Hall on alternate Mondays starting Monday, 12 October. Do come and join us for a tea or coffee and chat before we hear our speaker’s talk. We will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of Inner Link, Comrie. For more information please ring: 07927 318010. 44

Small Classic Car Show

On Sunday, 25 October we will be holding a small classic car and bike show with some classic tractors in aid of Bertie Bus at North Dowald, Crieff off the Highlandman Loan in aid of the Community Bus service, Bertie Bus - www.bertiebus.org.uk. Light refreshments will be served and a raffle will be organised. Entry for vehicles is £5 and donations will be accepted on entry. Please support this worthy cause. All enquiries to Dr Mark Roycroft on 07825 176434 or mroycroft@ talk21.com.

The 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. We have an Awareness Day Event planned for Wednesday, 7 October this year. This event consists of twelve individual services who can offer information and advice on the day. We also have social work, New Rannoch - day 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.

Crieff ’s Fibro Warriors

Crieff ’s Fibro Warriors is a support group for anyone suffering from Fibromyalgia in the Strathearn area. We have a Facebook group and we meet in Crieff Baptist church on Tuesdays at 1.30 pm. For more information please contact Claire Scott at clairegrieve@ hotmail.co.uk.

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Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries Strathearn Community Library

Celebrate National Poetry Day 2026 and this year’s theme, Wonder, by visiting the Community Poetry Exhibition at Strathearn Community Library. The exhibition will run to Friday, 30 October. On Thursday, 1 October, you can also attend a special poetry evening celebrating National Poetry Day at the library. The event begins at 7.30 pm and features local poet Patricia Ace. Suitable for ages 16 and over. Tickets are available online via Eventbrite or in person from Strathearn Community Library. Please note that you are welcome to bring your own bottle (BYOB) to this event. An Evening with Jess Smith - Libraries play a vital role in our communities. As a keen advocate of libraries, Scottish writer and traditional storyteller Jess Smith will give a talk at Strathearn Community Library on the importance of storytelling and the written word. Over the years, Jess has raised awareness of the travelling community from her own childhood experiences using the power of story and place. She will recount some of these stories and share some tales from her most recent book, Button Bog. Suitable for ages 16 and over, the talk will take place on Tuesday, 6 October from 7.30 pm to 9 pm. Tickets are £5 and available online from Eventbrite and in person from Strathearn Community Library. Bookbug sessions - These fun, interactive sessions are suitable for pre-schoolers from baby years. Sessions are held every Thursday, including school holidays, from 10.30 am to 11 am. No need to book. Family History - Are you interested in researching your family history? Join our Family History Group. This informal session meets every fortnight on a Friday morning from 10 am - Noon. Using your own device is recommended, but we do have network computers available if required. These sessions are free. Please contact the library for more information. Tangled Yarns - Connect, share and learn with our friendly, informal knitting group.

Needles and yarns are available for beginners or those re-engaging with the craft. Meets every Tuesday from 2 pm to 3.30 pm. Café Books - Do you love to read? Join us at our informal Café Books session to find new authors, share your own favourite books and be inspired to read more. If you sign up for our Café Books email list, you will be sent regular monthly lists of the titles discussed. Café Books is held at the library on the first Saturday of every month from 11 am to 12.30 pm. Books on Wheels - For individuals in the Comrie and Crieff area who cannot get out and about to visit the library, books can be delivered straight to your door each month. For more information, please get in touch with Strathearn Community Library. Bertie Bus - Provides a monthly trip to Strathearn Community Library, finishing with tea or coffee at the Steading Café. Please contact the Secretary of Strathcare on 07716 119414 for more information. E-resources - Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries offer online library services available 24/7 via the library website at www. culturepk.org.uk/libraries Opening hours - 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 Contact us - 01764 657705; strathearnlibrary@culturepk.org.uk Comrie Heritage Group - Comrie Connections Visit - A special moment for CHG this summer was the visit on 19 August by 37 adults and three children from Canada, the USA, Jamaica and England, all with the surname Comrie or family links to the village. Their three‑day trip to Scotland was organised by Mairi Philp of Comrie and Dundurn Parish Church, with support from many local volunteers and Comrie Heritage Group. After time in the Parish Church, the group enjoyed lunch in the Church Hall and explored the CHG exhibition from Comrie Fortnight. Guided walks around the village followed, some venturing as far as the Earthquake House. Family‑history research by Frances, Lady Trees added in46

terest, including the earliest known reference to the Comrie name in 1275. The day ended with tea in the Hall before the coach returned to Glasgow.

It was a thoroughly enjoyable occasion for everyone. Cultybraggan Camp welcomed Jim Fairlie MSP recently, in a visit hosted by CDT and CHG. He was impressed by the stories linked to the Camp since 1941. Visits like this help spread the word about what the Camp offers, reminding us that personal recommendation still matters. New contacts continue to help the Camp’s development. Recent steps include links with the Tayside Museums Forum and a visit to Kelvingrove Museum, both useful in progressing accreditation work and improving cataloguing of the Museum’s collection. The exterior of the Museum building once the Jail Block and Guardhouse - is due for redecoration shortly, and a local Comrie firm will carry out this work. With its new roof and insulation, the building should look fresh for 2027, the 20th anniversary of CDT’s purchase of the site from the MOD. The Museum will close for the winter on Monday, 26 October, reopening on Friday, 26 March 2027 (Good Friday).

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Comrie & St Fillans Music Circle Crossing

Meetings are held at the Rural Hall, Nurses Lane, Comrie. All start between 12 pm and 12.30 pm on Tuesdays (except for the 2nd one in each month) and there is a light lunch before the subject for the day. We finish no later than 4 pm. Our autumn programme, consisting of audio and Comrie & video presentations by St Fillans Music Circle some of our members, is: Tuesday, 6 October - Malcolm Gregory Music, but not as you know it. 8th edition Tuesday, 20 October - Eric Perks Caledonian Classics Tuesday, 27 October - John Southorn 1685 - A Great Year Tuesday, 3 November - Alison Hunter My Favourite Schubert Tuesday, 17 November - Graziella Luhmann - Music from the USA Tuesday, 24 November - Carolyn McKeggie - Birds! Tuesday, 1 December - Jan Southorn Shakespeare Music Tuesday, 15 December - Christmas Party Requests We are a friendly club, open to all ages, and all are welcome. Membership costs £55 for autumn and £45 for spring. There is also the opportunity to donate £1 at each meeting which goes to support our local talent such as Comrie Kids Strings. Like most clubs, we are looking for new members. An introductory meeting is free. Please come along and give us a try. For further information, please contact Graziella Luhmann on 07500 083827. Comrie Probus Club - For all meetings we shall meet at the Comrie Parish Church Hall at 10.30 am for tea and coffee followed by the speaker of the day terminating at 12 noon. We shall commence the first of our 6 meetings on the 7 October with the last meeting on the 16 December. Dates are as follows 7 October - Nick Cooke -Pilgrim Paths 21 October - Paul Prescott - Appearance and Reality 4 November - David Bushby - Pacific 48

18 November - Jonathan Sainsbury Keeping authentic to my vision 2 December - Jimmy Denholm Architecture 16 December - Andrew Scott - Kitchen Demo and Christmas Lunch Recommencing on the 13 January 2027 with 6 more speakers, to be confirmed. Subscription remains unchanged at £40 for the 12 meetings and we are open to both Male and Female members, all are welcome so come and give us a try. If further information is required, please contact either Judith Rogers on 07772967160 or Malcolm Gregory on H 01764670493 or M 07752498187 Crieff Choral Group - A selection of classic choir favourites will be on the programme for Crieff Choral Group’s winter concert which will take place on Saturday, 28 November in Comrie Parish Church. The group rehearses every Monday evening from 7.30 pm in Strathearn Arts, Comrie Street, Crieff. New members are always welcome and no audition required. To find out more, visit the group’s website at crieffchoral.co.uk, check out its Facebook page, or get in touch with the secretary.

Strathearn Horticultural Society

Thanks to all the exhibitors who took part in our flower show and to everyone who came along to support us. We have a Quiz Night coming up on Saturday, 7 November, in the bowling clubhouse, 7 pm for 7.30 pm. To book a table, please phone Janet on 01764 654229. Art and Crafts Fair - The Dunkeld and Birnam Art and Crafts Fair takes place on Saturday, 7 November and Sunday, 8 November in The Drill Hall, The Cross, Dunkeld from 10 am to 5 pm each day. Earnsong Choir - We meet every Monday during school term in the White Church in Comrie, from 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm. So come and join our friendly choir, who love singing together. We would love to see you.

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Brass Central Strathearn - Brass Central Strathearn is busy rehearsing as we prepare for a busy few months ahead! Our first engagement is Remembrance Weekend, when we are proud to support the Royal British Legion on Saturday, 7 November, performing in James Square, Crieff. We then head to Fife for something a little different. On Thursday, 26 November, we’ll be joining the Kinross Kacophony Orchestra for a concert at Loch Leven Community Campus as part of the Kinrossshire Winter Festival. We’d love to see some familiar faces there, so do come along and support us. After that, it’s straight into our festive programme, which is always one of our favourite times of the year! We’re still finalising our Christmas calendar, so keep an eye on our social media for the latest updates. As your local community band, we’re always delighted to welcome new members of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re picking up an instrument for the first time or returning after a break, we’d love to have you join us. Get in touch via info@brasscentralstrathearn.co.uk.

Crieff Camera Club - Crieff Camera Club meets

in the small hall, Crieff Parish Church (St Andrews Halls), Strathearn Terrace on the first and third Thursday on every month (September to March inclusive) at 7.15 pm for a 7.30 pm start. We have a presentation by Alister Sinclair on Thursday, 5 November then Tom Ryan will give two presentations on Thursday, 19 November - ‘Through Glass’ and ‘Venice after Dark’. The membership fee is £40 for the session plus £1 per meeting which includes tea and biscuits. Your first meeting is free. Beginners and experienced photographers are welcome.

Crieff Parish Church Guild - The Crieff Parish Church Guild has a varied programme of meetings and activities planned for the coming months. Meetings are held in the Church Hall unless otherwise stated. The programme is as follows: Wednesday, 14 October - Meeting at Muthill Guild Wednesday, 28 October - Douglas Lemmon, Physio Wednesday, 11 November - Speaker on Cult y Braggan Wednesday, 25 November - Buttons & Bows, Margaret Wednesday, 16 December - Christmas Party Wednesday, 27 January - Coffee or Tea at 10.30 am in the Church Hall Wednesday, 10 March - CrossReach speaker Wednesday, 24 March - Moyra Rodd, Crafts Wednesday, 14 April - Crieff Guild, to be confirmed Wednesday, 28 April - Speaker from CHAS Wednesday, 12 May - Speaker from Christian Aid Wednesday, 26 May - AGM and decision on projects Bingo Night and Raffle in aid of Rideaway charity - The Rideaway charity provides equine therapy for local school pupils. Join us on Friday, 6 November for a fun evening of bingo! Fabulous prizes and a great raffle! Kids’ game at the break. Doors open at 6.30 pm. Games start at 7.30 pm. British Legion, Crieff. All proceeds go to support our therapeutic riding sessions. We are a 100% volunteer organisation and rely 100% on donations and fundraising. A huge thank you to the British Legion for hosting us. Comrie & District Men’s Shed - The Comrie and District Men’s Shed incorporating She Shed is a welcoming local charity space for making, learning and connecting. Our accommodation has a range of woodworking, metalworking and craft facilities which allow development of practical skills in a friendly and supportive environment. We are actively looking for new members of any age over 18 who want to come and enjoy learning or teaching new skills. Alternatively you might just want to come and join us for a cuppa and a chat. At present we open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 am to 2/4 pm. We are also now open on Thursday (Projects) and Friday (Social/Games) evenings for everyone from 6 pm to 10 pm. Why not come out and see us at Hut 65 at Cultybraggan Camp. We had a stall at the Crieff Gathering, along with some of our crafts and games. The games went down a treat with both children and adults. We enjoyed good chats with the visitors, some local and others from afar. We are having a Race Night on Friday, 2 October at the White Church in Comrie from 7.30 pm to 11 pm. Come and enjoy the fun and bring family and friends. Spaces are limited, so please register your interest by emailing comriemensshed@gmail.com or phoning 07917 358216. We may still have spaces on the night. Please bring cash (not cards!) to bet on the horses and buy at the bar. The format will be six races with eight horses in each, plus an auction race on the night - come and grab yourself a winner! See all of our advertising details on our Facebook page @TheQuair 50

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Crieff Nursing Home welcomes new manager with traditional Sri Lankan cuisine

On Monday, 17 August, Dalnaglar Nursing Home, part of BCG, one of Scotland’s leading care providers, welcomed returning Home Manager, Judith Meaden, with open arms to her new home. Some members of the team took the opportunity to create special dishes and invoke traditions from their home country of Sri Lanka. The surprise party was organised by Operations Support Manager, Kirsty Smith, working secretly with the team to create a unique welcome, along with Mel Logan, Senior Nurse from the Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership. One of the highlights was a Sri Lankan traditional dish of milk rice brought in by Senior Care Assistant, Nipuna - especially chosen for the celebration, as it is shared during weddings, birthdays, and other special occasions. In this case for new beginnings and welcoming to a new home. Other culinary offerings included fish rolls prepared by Dilini, pork and chicken curries cooked by Damith and Kaveesha, followed by traditional Sri Lankan pancakes served by Maleesha. Throughout the informal get-together, the team and residents enjoyed the opportunity to chat to the new Home Manager, Judith, who returns to BCG after a short break and brings with her extensive experience within the care sector. Judith was touched by the unexpected welcome, and said, ‘When I left, it didn’t take long for me to realise just how much I missed being part of the BCG team. I missed the positive culture, the people and the sense of purpose that comes with working here. As my first day highlighted, the team spirit, support and sense of community is clear. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to return. I am absolutely delighted to be back, especially at this fabulous Perthshire home in Crieff. From day one, I have felt welcomed and supported, and I already feel part of a fantastic team once again. Coming back feels like coming home and

why I love being part of the BCG family.’ Everyone at the home was thrilled that Judith’s return was to their Dalnaglar Nursing Home. Kirsty Smith, Operations Support Manager, said, ‘Judith is a fantastic fit for Dalnaglar. She brings a wealth of experience, genuine passion for care, and a people-focused approach that aligns perfectly with the home’s values. Dalnaglar is supported by a dynamic, dedicated and highly skilled team who work tirelessly to provide the very best care and support for residents every day. ‘I know Judith will thrive in this environment, and her leadership will complement the strong culture already in place. We are delighted to welcome her back to BCG and are excited to see her work alongside a team that continues to build on the home’s success.’ The welcome party was a huge success in building immediate bonds and continues to contribute towards the positive and supportive environment within Dalnaglar. The home prides itself on providing individually tailored care, and days like this help to foster and build strong relationships between the team and residents, creating a community atmosphere where everyone is embraced and included.

Pip’s Secret Door - Fiona Lowry is delighted to announce the release of Pip’s Secret Door, the first book in her enchanting new chapter book series, The Fairy Woods. 52

Written for children aged 5 to 8 years, Pip’s Secret Door invites young readers into a world of wonder, imagination, friendship, and gentle magic, where believing in something extraordinary may be the start of the greatest adventure of all. Faith believes in fairies but Harris is not so sure. When the siblings discover a tiny red door hidden in the bark of an old oak tree, everything begins to change. Soon, letters begin to appear. Tiny windows glow among the branches and the woods seem to whisper secrets of their own. As Faith and Harris follow the clues left behind by a mysterious fairy called Pip, they discover that kindness, curiosity, and believing in the impossible can unlock doors they never knew existed. Inspired by childhood adventures in the Scottish countryside, Pip’s Secret Door combines magical storytelling with themes of confidence, imagination, family connection, and self-belief. Fiona Lowry said, ‘Stories have always created a world of possibility for me, and when my own children came along, I saw the world through their eyes again. I wanted to create a world that captures the wonder of long summer days, exploring outdoors, creating adventures from imagination, and believing that magic might be closer than we think. Pip’s Secret Door is a story about far more than fairies. It is about curiosity, kindness, friendship, and learning that sometimes the most magical things in life begin when we choose to believe in ourselves.’ The Fairy Woods series has been created to grow alongside young readers as they transition from picture books into chapter books, offering accessible storytelling, engaging illustrations, memorable characters, and a magical world children can return to again and again. Pip’s Secret Door is available worldwide through major retailers, independent bookshops, libraries, and online booksellers.

Innerpeffray Library - Dates for your Diary Wednesday, 14 October - The Ted Powell Lecture: The World of Scotch Whisky with Richard White. 7 pm. Friends convenor Richard White will give a personal overview of Scotch Whisky - how it is made, the different types and styles, how the worldwide market is evolving, and his experiences of selling it in over 50 countries around the world from Canada to Vietnam to Malawi. Tickets £10, members of the Friends free, but please book. Thursday, 29 October - The Law and Criminal Insanity: Sheriff Principal Gillian Wade KC. 7 pm. In 2026, the Library was delighted to add two pocket watches with connections to the Drummond family to its collection. One of these also bears a fascinating historic connection to the first legal case which defined the defence of insanity in English law in 1843. Tickets £10. Friday, 6 November and Saturday, 7 November ­- Innerpeffray Festive Fayre. 10 am to 4 pm. A chance to browse unique, bookish gifts inspired by the Library’s collection in the Schoolroom at Innerpeffray. A range of carefully curated arts and crafts by local artisans will also be available, so come prepared to shop! Sunday, 15 November - Dead Men’s Eyes: Ghost Stories by M.R. James. 7 pm. Master storyteller Robert Lloyd Parry of Nunkie Theatre returns for another night of pleasing terror. Two tales of the restless dead, by the master of the English ghost story. Event begins promptly at 7 pm - no late admittance. Tickets £20. Suitable for ages 14+. Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 November - Festive Wreath-Making Workshop. 2.30 pm to 5 pm. Such a popular event that we are running it twice: come and learn how to make a spectacular wreath using locally gathered seasonal plants. Led by Gwyneth Hardy, who was executive producer of The Beechgrove Garden for 30 years. Tickets £35. From March to October, the Library’s regular opening hours are Wednesday to Saturday, from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday, from 2 pm to 5 pm. Visit our website at www.innerpeffraylibrary.co.uk

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Sunday, 11 October - Stroll Rumbling Bridge, (5 miles) Sunday, 25 October - Walk Falls of Bruar and Glen Banvie, (11 miles) Sunday, 8 November - Stroll Birks of Aberfeldy and Dunskaig, (4 miles) Sunday, 22 November - Walk Auchingarrich Circular, (8 miles) Please contact Walks Co-ordinator Neil Harrower if you are interested in joining any of these walks or would like more information. Neil: 07992 228913

Morrison’s Academy appoints first female rector in its 166-year history

Morrison’s Academy has announced the appointment of Mrs Catherine Precious as its new Rector, marking a significant milestone in the 166-year history of the Perthshire school as the first woman to lead the institution since its founding by philanthropist Thomas Morrison. Mrs Precious begins her leadership at the start of the new academic term and joins Morrison’s Academy from Jersey College for Girls, where she served as Vice Principal and Headteacher of the preparatory school. Her career spans senior leadership roles across both UK and international education, including schools in the north of England and four years as an Ofsted Inspector. She also served as Executive Headteacher for the Ta’allum Group in Qatar, where she led school development within an international network. She holds the National Professional Qualification for Headship and continues to engage in advanced leadership development. The appointment comes as the Crieff-based day school continues to build on its strong academic reputation while evolving to meet the needs of a modern, forward-looking education. The school cites her expertise in school improvement, curriculum development and leadership of whole-school strategy as central to its next phase. She succeeds Mr Andrew McGarva, who leaves the school after five years in post to take up the position of Principal at Tring Park School for the Performing Arts. Mrs Precious, who has already begun meeting pupils, staff and families as she starts to shape her vision for the years ahead, said, ‘I am delighted to have joined Morrison’s Academy at such an important moment in its long and distinguished history. It is a privilege to lead a school with such a strong sense of community, academic excellence and commitment to the development of every young person. I look forward to working with pupils, staff and families as we build on the school’s many strengths and look ahead to the future together.’ Donald McDonald, Chairman of the Board of Governors at Morrison’s Academy, added, ‘We are absolutely delighted to welcome Catherine Precious as the new Rector of Morrison’s Academy. She brings a wealth of experience, a clear commitment to excellence and a proven track record of leadership in both the UK and internationally. We are confident she is exceptionally well placed to lead the school into its next chapter while preserving the values and traditions that define Morrison’s Academy.’ For more information, please visit www.morrisonsacademy.org. 54

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coming weeks, the best way to keep up is A Taste of What’s Coming from guese treats and quick midweek meals. the Crieff Food & Drink Festival Thursday, 15 October - Show-Stopping Pa- online.

Foodies, take note! The Crieff Food & Drink Festival hits the town from Saturday, 10 October to Sunday, 18 October, bringing nine full days of culinary celebrations, expert demos and mouth-watering local flavours to Strathearn. Brought to you by Experience Crieff and sponsored by The Crieff Food Co., this year’s festival is packed with experiences across town, and new events are being added to the schedule every week! Masterclasses & Workshops - For those looking to get hands-on in the kitchen, places will be strictly limited for interactive workshops. Here’s a sneak peek at a few sessions already confirmed: Monday, 12 October - Shortbread Secrets: Master the art of traditional Scottish shortbread with family bakers at Campbell’s Bakery Wednesday, 14 October - Cooking for a Cause: Join chef Sam Heeney-Governo for A Taste of Love to Cook featuring Portu-

tisserie: Learn delicate afternoon tea techniques with former 5-star hotel pastry chefs at Ems & Co. Flavours Across Town & Finale Highlights - Venues right across Crieff are gearing up for a feast. You can test your culinary trivia at The Tower’s Food Pub Quiz (Wednesday, 14 October), soak up Bavarian vibes at G’s Bistro Oktoberfest (Saturday, 17 October), or indulge in a refined Glenturret Whisky & Lalique Chocolate Pairing (Sunday, 18 October). And that’s just the beginning! Festival-goers can also look forward to special menus and deals at local eateries, sweet treats at Gordon & Durward, daily gin tastings, fish filleting masterclasses, an Artisan Market at The Steading (Saturday, 10 October) and the Grand Bake Off competition and finale fun day (Sunday, 18 October). Stay Updated as the Line-up Grows! With many more events, venue collaborations, and booking links launching over the

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Don’t miss out on tickets as they go live. Visit experiencecrieff.co.uk/events for the latest full programme, times, and booking details!

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Women’s Social Group Celebrating the Art of Conversation

NWR (National Women’s Register has been connecting women across the UK since 1960. Our friendly group in Crieff is looking to grow and help local women connect through conversation and activities. NWR gives women a brilliant opportunity to meet, engage in meaningful discussions, and form lasting friendships. Why join the Crieff NWR? *Stimulating Conversations: Engage in lively discussions on various subjects, from current events to personal passions. Our first meeting in September sees us set the topics and activities between September and January. They will include a national telephone treasure trail where we solve clues around a hidden theme. *New Friendships: Build lasting relationships with local women who share your interests and values. *Social Events: Enjoy a range of activities beyond regular meetings, including outings, speaker events, and more. What our members say - ‘NWR is a great way to meet other local women in your

area and make lasting friendships.’ ‘It’s a wonderful group to be part of, everyone is so inclusive and kind and I find the topics and meetings very interesting and a lot of fun.’ ‘Belonging to NWR has given me so much pleasure.’ ‘It does me good! It cheers me up. I never regret making the effort to get to a meeting.’ ‘I love the Move for Life exercise class and Chair Yoga - great for my mobility and mental health.’ ‘My membership of NWR has given me wonderful supportive friends for life.’ How to get involved - Women interested in joining NWR are encouraged to complete the contact form on the Crieff page of the NWR www.nwr.org.uk/network/ groups/crieff. We will then contact you with more information and the offer of a free taster session. About NWR - NWR is a national membership charity that combats social isolation by connecting women for conversation, exercise, and social events. Our meetings start with an icebreaker topic to help conversation flow: sometimes random and

fun, sometimes more serious and topical. With groups across the UK, NWR offers a platform for women to discuss a wide range of topics, from current affairs and the arts to travel and lifestyle, within a friendly and supportive setting. We also have a thriving online community, offering a weekly exercise class, online discussion groups, book clubs, and expert speakers, which can be enjoyed from the comfort of your home. For more information, visit nwr.org.uk The White Church Winter Craft Fair Celebrating 25 Years of Local Creativity! Join us at Comrie’s White Church for our much-loved Annual Winter Craft Fair on Saturday 7 & Sunday 8 November! Now in its 25th year, this cherished event continues to showcase the incredible talent of over 20 local artists and makers across two festive-filled days. Discover a stunning selection of handcrafted treasures, including candles, crochet, ceramics, paintings, prints, glasswork, festive décor, and an array of unique gifts and accessories - perfect for early Christmas shopping! Enjoy delicious homemade refreshments all served by the Scottish Women’s Institute (SWI) the ideal spot to take a break and soak in the community spirit. There will be a fantastic raffle with amazing prizes, all in support of the SWI! Whether you’re a returning visitor or a first-timer, there’s always something new and inspiring to discover. Come along and celebrate the creativity thriving right on our doorstep. The White Church, Comrie, PH6 2DW. Saturday, 7 November ‘26 10am - 4pm Sunday, 8 November 12pm - 4pm

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