The Crieff & Comrie Quair

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The Crieff & Comrie Quair

Crieff, Comrie & District’s Community Magazine • January 2026

CRIEFF | COMRIE | ST. FILLANS | MADDERTY | FOWLIS WESTER | GILMERTON

• renoVationS

• attic conVerSionS

• dry rot and wet rot treatment

IN AUCHTERARDER

IN AUCHTERARDER

tel/text: 07436 793785 e: crieffandcomrie@thequair.com w: www.thequair.scot

We wish all our Advertisers, Contributors and Readers a healthy and prosperous 2026

WHERE LEGS AND FEET MATTER

As the decorations come down after Twelfth Night on Monday, 5 January, many of us feel ready for a fresh start. These first weeks of the year bring quieter days, and with them a welcome moment to settle, breathe and restore a little balance. They offer us the chance to bring our homes and routines back into order, and to clear what is no longer needed. If you are wondering about recycling collections or how best to deal with your real Christmas tree, up-to-date information can be found on Perth and Kinross Council’s website, including any changes prompted by winter weather.

WHERE LEGS AND FEET MATTER

GREGOR McCOSHIM FCPodS MChS

HCPC REGISTERED

ROUTINE CHIROPODY

GREGOR McCOSHIM FCPodS MChS

WALKING/RUNNING INJURIES

ORTHOTIC/INSOLE MANUFACTURER

January in Scotland has never been a month for hiding indoors. Our traditions remind us that even in the dimmest days there are small sparks of light to be found. The Old New Year on Monday, 12 January, continues to be marked in many households, a gentle echo of the past. Then, of course, comes Burns Night on Sunday, 25 January, when the Bard’s words call us back to our shared heritage and sense of togetherness. It is also a sensible time to stay grounded. The darker months often bring an increase in scams, many of them remarkably convincing. Trust your instincts, slow down before responding, and check that any request is genuine.

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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

Above all, January invites us to move through life with steadiness. A new year does not demand dramatic resolutions; small, sincere steps are enough. Clearing a drawer, taking a short walk, or sharing a cup of tea with a neighbour can do much to lift the spirit.

Alistair and Linda

The Crieff & Comrie Quair is an open access monthly magazine which is delivered FREE to over 6,150 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 from visitors and tourists and, of course, local and regional lockdowns due to worldwide pandemics! 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 13,500 copies directly to homes and businesses throughout Highland Perthshire and Strathearn. Local voluntary groups and organisations may submit articles, free of charge. All contributions are carried subject to space being available. We ask that any article reaches us by email by the specified copy date, is factual, non-political, under 400 words and not likely to offend.

Copy Date - The copy date for advertisers and organisations to submit an advertisement or article for the February 2026 edition is noon on Tuesday, 13 January. The Magazines are due to be distributed week commencing Monday, 2 February 2026.

Inner Link Club of Comrie - Inner Link meets at 10.30 am in the Comrie Parish Church Hall. The last meeting for 2025 was 8 December. We have a break for Christmas and start 2026 on 12 January. Membership is open to everyone; come and enjoy coffee and chat and hear our visiting speaker’s talk. Contact: Sharon on 07927 318010 or 01764 679943

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Are you looking for a meaningful star t to the New Year?

Join us as a volunteer at Corbenic. At Corbenic Camphill Community near Dunkeld, volunteers help create a place where people of all abilities live, work, and grow together.

There are many ways to get involved! You might spend time alongside residents in one of our creative or practical workshops, offer one -to-one friendship and support, or even join us as a live -in volunteer to experience community life more fully.

Whether you can offer a few hours a week or a set amount of months of your time, volunteering at Corbenic is a rewarding way to connect, give back to your community, and discover something new.

We are also hiring team members!

If your New Year’s resolution is to find work that feels meaningful, why not join Corbenic Camphill Community as a staff member?

Located near Dunkeld, Corbenic is a vibrant community where people of all abilities live, work, and gro w together. Our staff play a vital role in supporting daily life, whether that’s in our residential houses or the Corbenic Shop & Café.

It can be a flexible way to work, with opportunities as relief to pick up shifts that suit your schedule or have contracted hours every week, while being part of a caring, inclusive environment that makes a real difference in people’s lives.

Prenups - not just for the rich and famous

Why not find out how a prenup (or postnup) could protect your assets.

If you look up celebrity prenups on the internet, you’ll find some jaw-dropping insights into just how rich some people are (and also how demanding they can be). These stories are fun, but they also obscure the fact that, in Scotland, prenups are increasingly used by non-celebrities as well.

What is a prenup?

Prenuptial Agreements set out how couples’ assets such as property would be divided if they split up. They’re increasingly popular in Scotland where people have built up assets before marriage or where they want to protect assets for children from a previous relationship.

Do they work?

Unlike in England and Wales, prenups are generally treated as legally binding in Scottish law if both parties understood the terms of the agreement and it was fair and reasonable.

Are they a good idea?

They bring clarity about what will happen if the relationship doesn’t last. They also bring peace of mind to other family members if they’re worried about a new partner claiming someone’s assets.

Who are they good for?

Anyone who wants to ringfence any assets they bring to the marriage or protect them for other family members.

What if you don’t have one?

It’s also possible to make a postnuptial agreement. It’s similar to a prenup but made after a wedding or civil partnership. Reasons for making one could include receiving a windfall, restructuring your business, or not having a prenup in place.

To contact Caroline

carolinemackintosh@lindsays.co.uk 01738 564744

Crieff Office

21 Comrie Street Crieff, PH7 4AX

As we get into the colder months, did you know you can take a winter break with us?

Whether it’s to enjoy the warmth and extra support we can give you, or simply to relax in a safe environment with hot meals and a brew, all made for you...

Whatever your winter needs, we can help. We’d love to take the time to show you around, and chat over any questions you may have.

Want to take a look? Call us on 01764 655231 or email manager.dalnaglar@bcgcares.co.uk

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. We strive to deliver vibrant, inclusive, memorable arts experiences and we want everyone who engages with us to feel that. Driven by our programme, facilities, and through our coordinating role in the local artistic community, Strathearn has developed a wide reputation as a cultural destination. See www.strathearnarts.org for more details.

Crieff Parish Guild

Syllabus 2026 for Crieff Parish Church Guild - Living Stones - All Meetings are at 2.30 pm or as otherwise stated.

Wednesday, 14 January - Buttons & Bows

Christine or Eve

Wednesday, 28 January - Burns Day Lunch with Alison Hunter

Wednesday, 11 February - At Muthill Guild

Christina Paterson

Wednesday, 25 February - Photograph Display Bill Clark

Wednesday, 11 March - Leprosy Mission

Steve McLeish

Wednesday, 25 March - AGM

SWI Fowlis Wester

Steve Carr gave a marvellous talk on how he and his football team formed a charity to help local Ukrainian families escape the Russian invasion. It was only to be a one-off in 2005 to help children in a local TB sanatorium in Dnipro, and it still supports local orphanages and families now. He was awarded an MBE for his work.

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Flapjacks - 1st Anne Hubbard 2nd June McGrath 3rd Margaret Moran

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Happy New Year 2026 from Remake Scotland!

As we step into a brand-new year, we want to say a heartfelt thank you for your continued support, donations, and encouragement over the past years. This year is especially meaningful for us at the Remake Hub as we celebrate our 15th Anniversary; 15 years of community, creativity, and circular economy in action. Wherever you are in your sustainability journey, we look forward to welcoming you into our spaces and celebrating this milestone year together.

Visit us this New Year - We reopen on Wednesday, 7 January and our opening hours remain: Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am

to 4 pm, with late-night shopping every Thursday until 6 pm. The Repair Hub is on Saturday, 10 January from 10 am to 1 pm at Strathearn Community Campus. You’re warmly invited to: *Explore treasures on our shop floor *Visit Food for Good on Crieff High Street *Discover our Tool Library *Join our community outreach programmes and educational events *Celebrate our 15th anniversary festivities later in the year. Donations: Thinking about decluttering, moving house, downsizing, or helping a loved one transition? We’re here to help. We accept: *Solid wood furniture (high demand!) *Items other charities can’t accept, which includes shed and greenhouse contents *Craft and art supplies *Textiles and fabrics *Artworks and vintage curios *Small electricals *DIY and gardening tools *and much more. Donations are accepted five days a week during opening hours. Every item you give helps extend the life of valuable resources and keeps reusable goods out of landfill. Start 2026 as a volunteer at Remake! If your new year’s resolution is to give back or join a charity, we would love to have you on our team. We have a wide range of roles and training opportunities for everyone, whether you’re experienced or just getting started. Want to join us? Email: info@remakescotland.co.uk. Call: 01764 655733. Let’s make 2026 a year of community, creativity, and circular change together.

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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 preschoolers 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 new 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.

New Year - Comrie Library will reopen on Friday, 9 January at 10 am after the Christmas and New Year closure.

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

Strathearn Horticultural Society

Strathearn Horticultural Society is holding a quiz night on Saturday, 7 March in the bowling club, Crieff, from 7.15 pm, with the quiz starting at 7.30 pm.

To book a table (£12), please phone Janet on 01764 654229 or Susan on 07985 237990.

Comrie Community Cinema - Comrie Community Cinema would like to extend our grateful thanks to our very generous sponsors who have enabled us to continue showing our free Sunday afternoon children’s films. All are welcome and no tickets are needed.

Our sponsors are: *Gregor Muirhead, Joiners and Contractors *Scott Knox, Electrician *Ewan Cameron, Architects *Murray Lauchlan, Comrie Butchers *Comrie Development Trust *John Castley, Wild Hearth Bakery *David and Lorna Ramsay. Their sponsorship allows us to show eight films over our season from September 25 to May 26 and we are extremely grateful to them for their generosity in supporting community cinema in Comrie.

Chris’s Gigs in Comrie - Chris’s Gigs in Comrie has launched their exciting programme for 2026. All gigs can be accessed through the ticket link at Ticket Tailor. Search on Ticket Tailor for Chris’s Gigs for the whole list.

First up on Saturday, 31 January is Rum Ragged at Comrie White Church at 8 pm. Tickets £20 (plus £1 booking fee online) from Hansen’s Kitchen and at Ticket Tailor. We are very excited to be welcoming Newfoundland band and JUNO Award Nominees, Rum Ragged to Comrie. We’re very lucky to be having them since they are visiting Scotland from Canada for Celtic Connections. With a reverence for their roots and a creative, contemporary edge, this band has quickly become known as the finest performers of their great, living, musical tradition. Boasting bouzouki, fiddle,

bodhrán, banjo, guitar, and button accordion, these champions of East Coast music enliven and enlighten audiences with their signature brand of Newfoundland folk. Always honest, thought-provoking, and often humorous, it’s Rum Ragged’s live show that makes them a fast favourite with any audience. Their combination of striking vocal harmonies, staggering musicianship, and captivating storytelling gives concert-goers an experience they won’t soon forget. This one is going to be fun. Get your tickets soon.

Chris’s Gigs (Scottish Charity No. SC054099)

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.

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 contact Claire Scott at clairegrieve@hotmail.co.uk.

Looking for an afternoon out?

We are a small Whist Club, who meet on a Wednesday afternoon in Cameron Court. So why not come along, just turn up, and join us for a friendly game of whist, 2 o’clock until 4 o’clock. You may not always win a prize but you will always get tea/ coffee, cake and biscuits. There is no membership fee but £2 fee each week.

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Two local officers from Police Scotland attended December’s Crieff Community Council meeting to discuss actions taken in relation to the recent seemingly deliberate torching of the Community Garden shed and its subsequent destruction along with its valuable contents. This was in the wake of persistent, highly destructive vandalism at the site over an extended period.

Following its investigations, Police Scotland has charged two female youths with wilful fire-raising and they have subsequently been reported to the relevant authorities. Those at the meeting expressed concern that it was likely that no adequate punishment would follow, the lack of any visible and meaningful consequences meant there was little deterrent for other likeminded youths and therefore similar crimes would continue.

The police officers clarified they were not part of the sentencing process however, they noted actions to deter further youth crime were more successful when the parents of the offenders were co-operative and engaged. It was also agreed that some sort of restorative justice would be most appropriate, that the vast majority of young people in Crieff is very well behaved and are likewise dismayed at the actions of the small minority.

The meeting heard a local business is prepared to donate a new metal shed, and CCTV cameras and lighting for the area are also being pushed through by MSP Jim Fairley. In the past this was resisted as locals who supported the garden weren’t able to legally monitor a public area, particularly one frequented by children, however the cameras will be connected to the council and police monitoring system. Councillor Rhona Brock addressed the meeting to say she had just heard reports a heavy bench from the Star Garden had been stolen. It was also reported that the thieves may have carried the bench down the High Street and so may be identified by High Street CCTV. She is going to lodge a report with the police so they can investigate. Brian Wilton was re-elected chairman of the Community Council at this Extraordinary General Meeting, and other officers were likewise re-appointed. The CCC is in dire need of more people, potentially those retired with particular expertise, to take up positions as Community Councillors. If you want to know what this would entail and might be interested, please contact Brian on 07874 774464 or email criefftoun@gmail.com. Further demolition of the Drummond Arms is now in abeyance with negotiations with Historic Environment Scotland on what further action can be taken now ongoing. A final report on the communities’ position on what they would like to happen at the site following demolition is almost finalised. An initial draft prepared by consultant Maria Francké was asked to be amended to ensure it was a faithful representation of local feeling.

The meeting heard the recent Jigsaw Festival was a wonderful success, with people from across the country attending. It had over 500 visitors over two days and income from the event was £2,500, half of which was profit and would go towards the Crieff Cludgie fund. It has been booked again for 2026.

A notice from PKC of intended added double-yellow lines for the town include a section of North Bridge Street. The meeting heard that although some action was needed given the current situation getting in and out of town at the bridge was unacceptable, a more reasonable option would be to allow pavement parking in that section, as had been the case previously. This would mean introducing an exception to such parking being made at this location. This has been communicated to PKC, although they are currently adamant no exceptions can be made. This seems unreasonable as other councils have made such exceptions.

The next CCC meeting will be on Monday, 5 January at 7.30 pm at the Strathearn Campus. All are welcome to attend.

Crieff & Strathearn Drovers’ Tryst Walking Festival

As winter closes around us, the Drovers’ Tryst has been developing their 2026 Walking Festival plans. The dates for next year’s walks are Friday, 15 May to Monday, 18 May 2026.

Already around 20 walks have been identified with at least half being the popular linear walks, made possible by the continued and appreciated support of minibuses from PKC. The access to minibuses allows the inclusion of walks that might otherwise be difficult to coordinate, with the start point and finish being miles apart. Linear walks next May include Bridge of Orchy to Pubil along Loch Lyon and the old Drovers’ route from Kirkmichael in Strathardle to Ballinluig, south of Pitlochry as well as along Glen Almond from Newton Bridge to Loch Tay.

The attraction of the Drovers’ Tryst Walking Festival continues to lie with providing guided walks, across a range of categories from Extra hard walks (such as walking in from Glen Artney to ascend both Ben Vorlich and Stùc a’ Chròin before returning to Glen Artney) to a more relaxed Easy walk such as a local nature walk with a knowledgeable guide. Added to the range of walks, the inclusion of linear walks and the relaxed and friendly chat along the routes, explains why the Crieff and Strathearn Drovers’ Tryst has been attracting walkers for over 25 years!

Details of the walks will be posted on the Tryst’s website (www.droverstryst.com) in January with bookings opening later that month or early February. Such is the popularity of these walks that early bookings are recommended!

at www.thequair.scot

The Trustees wish you all the best over the Festive Season and look forward to meeting again on Perthshire’s hills in May 2026! See all of our advertising

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What a wonderful 2025 | Celebrating 50 years of bertie bus

As 2026 begins, we’d like to take a moment to reflect on what has been a truly unforgettable year for Bertie Bus.

In 2025, this beloved local charity marked 50 years of service to the Crieff and Strathearn community, which was a milestone that brought with it celebrations, memories and a renewed sense of purpose.

Throughout the year, we were reminded time and again of just how much Bertie means to so many: from those who ride with us, to the volunteers and supporters who keep our wheels turning.

Springtime Quiz Night - Fun, funds, and community spirit. The year began with a bang at the Bertie Bus Charity Quiz Night in April, hosted by Crieff Golf Club. It was an evening filled with laughter, and a shared sense of purpose, as well as a tough test of brain-power. As neighbours and friends gathered to compete (with varying degrees of seriousness!), they also helped raise an incredible £1,340. These are funds that go directly toward keeping Bertie on the road. As always, the Bertie Bus team was humbled by the generosity of local businesses and supporters who donated prizes, as well as the volunteers who helped the night run smoothly. These events are about more than fundraising; they’re a celebration of the strong community that Bertie has been part of for five decades. A summer lunch to remember - In July, the Bertie Bus annual Summer Lunch took on added significance. Held at the Crieff British Legion Club, the Bertie team welcomed over eighty service users and friends of Bertie for a special afternoon of food, music and memories.

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This joyful event also marked Bertie Bus’ 50th anniversary of serving Crieff and the surrounding villages. With cupcakes, celebratory cake, and even a glass of bubbly, it was a fitting tribute to the generations of volunteers who have made Bertie what it is today. A special thank you goes to St Columba’s Episcopal Church for generously providing additional parking. Of course, the whole event wouldn’t have been possible without all the volunteers who worked behind the scenes to ensure the day ran like clockwork. Golden Jubilee celebration - Honouring the People Behind Bertie. Then, in August, Bertie Bus hosted our biggest event of the year: the Golden Jubilee Celebration at Broich House. Past and present volunteers came together in a beautifully decorated marquee for an evening of food, music, and dancing. Thanks go to the local businesses who donated generously to the raffle that evening, as well as to the anonymous donor who funded the event, asking only that the donation be used to take the time to celebrate the people who make Bertie possible.

More than just a bus - While these events marked major milestones, Bertie’s work con tinued week in and week out, with Bertie Bus offering outings, shopping trips, library visits, and vital moments of connection to those who might otherwise be isolated. Whether it’s a friendly face at the door, a lift to town, or a companion for a shared cuppa, Bertie brings more than transport: it brings people together.

The Bertie team was also proud to support local veterans this past November, providing transport to and from Crieff’s Remembrance Day events. As ever, it was an honour to help those who have given so much.

Looking ahead - Bertie Bus continues to run on community spirit, and the fuel that keeps us going is volunteers. If you’re looking to give back in the New Year, why not consider joining our team?

Whether you can help as a driver, assist on outings, or support with events, there’s a place for you at Bertie. To find out more, email chair@bertiebus.org.uk or call 07716 119414. Here’s to another year of connection, care, and community. The team at Bertie Bus wishes to thank you for making 2025 so special, and they also send their best wishes for a Happy New Year in 2026!

Crieff Fifty Plus Club

Our next monthly meetings are on Wednesday, 4 February and Wednesday, 4 March at 2.30 pm in St Columba’s Church, Perth Road.

The talk on Wednesday, 4 February is entitled ‘The Crieff Murder’ by Jeff Davies and on Wednesday, 4 March, the talk is by Vicky Smith, on ‘The Tay Bridge Disaster’.

Annual membership of our club is £5, plus £2 for each monthly meeting. This includes tea, coffee and biscuits, so quite a bargain! There is also an opportunity to join any of our activity groups - Art, Quilting, Mahjong, Bridge, Indoor Bowls and Badminton. New members are always welcome, and we meet on the first Wednesday of the month, from September to May (except January), usually with a speaker on an interesting topic, of general appeal.

So, come along, and give us a try! Your first meeting is free.

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Cllr Stewart Donaldson

Strathearn Ward - SNP

A Very Good New Year to One and All.

As most readers know there is always a gap before you read any submitted copy. Hence, when you see this during the Council recess, in fact right now as I write there are a whole host of meetings. My diary is chock-a-block with events and briefings. And if I mislay my diary then help! It happened last week, before I found it under a couple of files at home. Immense relief!

Come early January there’s usually a bit of a lull and time to catch up on various matters. Then we get into the Budget process, with the Council due to hold its meeting in that respect on Wednesday, 4 March. Prior to that the Scottish Budget will be on Tuesday, 13 January. That will be crucial.

Over the next two months there will be a lot more happening. On the Glen Lednock wind farm application, I still have no confirmed date, but there is a strong likelihood that it will be considered on Wednesday, 7 January at Planning. If that is the case, then the papers are likely to go out before Christmas. If so, then I will endeavour to let a number of folk know. The next possible date for Planning would be Wednesday, 11 February. I spoke last time about Community Councils, and the EGMs that were being held. I am pleased to see that this is now completed, and that all four of Strathearn community councils are now fully constituted for the next three years. It matters in terms of local democracy.

Two important meetings coming up tie in with Comrie mainly. One is on Comrie Primary School: a report about the recent inspection report. That was positive. I referred last time to a recent visit to the school buildings, and the need for improvements. There is also going to be a meeting about the core path between Comrie and going to Crieff eventually. That is along the route of the old disused railway line. It’s a matter that has gone on for so long. On this front I really hope we can move forward with pace this year.

One event that was enjoyable was held at the Campus in Crieff a few days ago. A large number of local community organisations received grant funding under the Fairer Communities for All programme, and also from the Green Living Fund. The event covered not just Strathearn ward but Strathallan too. These groups contribute so much to community life throughout west Perthshire, but there is not enough space here to single any one out. I would though congratulate not just them, but also earlier in the evening the recipients of the achievement certificates on learning and training. Well done.

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.

PADS - PADS (Perthshire Abandoned Dogs Society) is a well-loved, long established local dog rescue charity with kennels at Forteviot. Our aim is to provide care and shelter for the county’s unwanted dogs and to find them new loving homes. Our kennels, which were renovated in recent years, can house up to thirty animals in warmth and comfort.

We provide veterinary care for the sick and injured amongst our strays and we have a small hospital unit which is used for the recovery of animals who have had operations. It also contains a ‘mother and baby unit’ where new mums can care for their puppies in a safe and relaxed environment. See www.padsdogrescue. com for further information.

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

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

I would like to wish everyone a very Happy New Year, and I hope you managed a good break over the festive period - some time to unwind, see family and enjoy the slower pace that December briefly allows. But as January rolls in, the lights come down, and the cold hangs around, we enter a stretch of the year that can feel particularly tough.

We live in an extraordinarily beautiful part of the world, but that comes with a bite in January. The days are short and the festive warmth can feel a long way off. This is when community really matters most. A quick check-in with a neighbour, a chat in the shop or a hand where it’s needed can make a real difference at this time of year.

This is also when the cost of heating and powering our homes hits hardest. Energy casework remains one of the most common issues raised with me; from unaffordable bills, to confusing information from suppliers, to ongoing uncertainty around the RTS meter switchoff. These are not minor issues; they affect comfort, health, finances and peace of mind, particularly for older or more vulnerable households. If you or someone you know locally is struggling with anything energy-related, please do get in touch with my office. Whether it’s disputing charges, navigating a supplier or simply making sense of the information you’ve been given, we deal with these issues every week and are more than happy to help. Lastly, a note on the Glen Lednock windfarm proposal. At the time of writing, this is scheduled to be considered by the Perth and Kinross Council Planning Committee on Wednesday, 7 January. While PKC is not the final decision-maker, it is a statutory consultee, and its conclusions will be taken into account by the Scottish Government’s Energy Consents Unit when they make their determination. I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to share their views with me on this issue, and for the careful and thoughtful way in which residents have set out their concerns or support. I will remain engaged as matters progress, while respecting the independence of the planning process. Wishing you all a fantastic start to 2026.

If you need help, whether it’s on energy matters or anything else, please get in touch on 01738 639598 or pete.wishart.mp@parliament.uk.

Crieff Choral Group - Crieff Choral Group would like to thank all who supported their concerts in 2025, and to wish everyone a Happy New Year. 2025 was another successful and enjoyable year, with music ranging from Henry Purcell’s ‘Come Ye Sons of Art’ to Claude-Michel Schönberg’s ‘Les Misérables’. It was great to welcome a good number of new members to the choir too.

Their talented music director, Ulrike Wutscher, continues to inspire them!

Over the year some members of the choir have entertained in the community, both in Crieff and Comrie. In December, they sang Christmas songs and carols in several care homes, and at the hospital.

Rehearsals commence at the beginning of January for joint performances in April with Pitlochry & District Choral Society of Rossini’s beautiful, ‘Petite Messe Solennelle’. If you enjoy singing and would like to join the choir, contact the choir secretary on crieffchoral@gmail.com or find information on www.facebook.com/Crieff. Tenors and basses are particularly welcome.

Rehearsals are on Mondays, 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm at Strathearn Arts. No audition needed.

You can find all of The Quair advertising details at our website by scanning the QR Code to the left and view our Facebook page by scanning the QR code to the right

“Where children can be children . . .

Game-changing education,

now from age 5

It’s been a busy few years for Strathallan Prep School. Since our launch in 2020, we have expanded into four new year groups, welcoming our youngest pupils ever in the Strathallan’s 100-year history. We’ve won awards for our teaching and introduced some groundbreaking programmes from the Pre-Senior Baccalaureate to the Junior Foresters Award.

Our small school is making a big impact. Our small class sizes, specialist teachers, and access to all the facilities of Strathallan’s 153-acre campus foster skills and passions. Strathallan Prep is a happy, vibrant place filled with music and laughter, where every child is set up for future success in senior school and beyond.

Open Morning: Saturday 14th March 2026

www.strathallan.co.uk/visit-us

Muthill Parish Church

(Church of Scotland)

We are an active village-based church with a growing congregation eager to tell the community we serve about the joys and challenges of the Christian faith. Our weekly Sunday services start at 10.30 am with a range of visiting preachers and a modern approach to all-age worship. Our services are post-screened via YouTube on the church website. Full details of our mission and the range of our regular activities can be obtained from our church website, www. muthillparishchurch.co.uk.

Our Alpha Course will be launched on the evening of Thursday, 15 January 2026. Applications for this course will remain open until Thursday, 8 January. The course, which is free of charge, will run for 10 weeks with an away-day in March. It is open to anyone in the Strathearn area of any faith background or none. Full details on how to apply are available in the News section of our church website. Our community Soup and Sandwich lunches continue every Wednesday at 12.30 pm (with coffee from 11 am). They are free until March 2026, thanks to a warm space grant from Perth and Kinross Council.

Our church building dates from 1826 and we will celebrate the bi-centenary of the laying of the foundation stone in March 2026. With our church sanctuary having been modernised over the past year, we now have a flexible hub available for letting for private functions. For more information please contact us by email at muthillparish@yahoo.com. In addition to our church website recorded above, we are on Facebook at www.facebook.com/muthillchurch.

the baha’i faith - The Comrie and Crieff group is hosting an open space for open-hearted conversations and reflection on quotes and prayers from all faiths and philosophies every Monday in Crieff at 7 pm and on Tuesday at 7.30 pm, in Comrie. These gatherings welcome all comers. For further information please contact Diana on 01764 670399 or Gordon on 07510 454342.

‘This is the Day whereon the Ocean of God’s mercy hath been manifested unto men, the Day in which the Day Star of His loving kindness hath shed its radiance upon them.’ Baha’u’llah

In Crieff the early morning gathering in the Crieff Community Garden for prayer for the people and plants in the garden and beyond will move to a monthly time slot of 10 am on the first Saturday of every month. The gathering is open to all ages, backgrounds, faiths and beliefs.

‘The branches are many but the tree is One.’ Baha’u’llah

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 disturb-

ing 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.

Quakers in Scotland - There are a number of Quaker meetings in Scotland. To find out more, visit 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 second and last Sunday of the month at 11 am.

Children are welcome at both meetings, although advance notice is helpful.

If you would like to know more, and perhaps need a lift, please contact Elaine Millar on 07745 854073 or email, millarclan@btinternet.com.

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 and 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.

As we head into the new year, we are planning three all age-events from January to

March. These should be

and are open to everyone, just come along on the night.

New Year 2026 family events:

Friday, 30 January - Ceilidh 6.30 pm to 8 pm. Music, dancing & fun, whether you’re a dancer or not!

Friday, 27 February - Pudding & Board Games Night 6.30 pm to 8 pm. We’ll provide pudding & games; you bring an appetite & competitive spirit!

Friday, 27 March - Challenge Night 6.30 pm to 8 pm. Think Crystal Maze/Taskmaster challenges for all ages.

For further information on any of these events, or to get in touch with the minister, John Burns, please contact via: crieffbaptist@gmail.com or 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

Mid Strathearn Parish - Mid Strathearn 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 Ford Road, Crieff PH7 3HN, Also serving St. Fillan’s and St Margaret’s, Comrie stfillancrieff@dunkelddiocese.org.uk

Sunday Masses - 5.30 pm Saturday Vigil in St Fillan’s, Crieff 9.30 am in St Margaret’s, Comrie 11 am in St Fillan’s. We are here to welcome you home, to God, to us, to your true and better self. Our church is located in Ford Road, Crieff, in the heart of Perthshire, part of the Catholic Church in Scotland.

Crieff Parish Church www.crieffparishchurch.org Happy New Year from everyone in the Parish Church.

January can be quite a challenging month as people head back to work and school after some time away. Perhaps we have spent more than we normally do on presents and luxuries but now we are anxious about the credit card bill that will soon be dropping its way through the letterbox.

Then, there are the unrealistic New Year resolutions we have set ourselves, as we buy gym memberships, put all the remain-

ing chocolates and biscuits into the bin and declare this to be the year of taking ourselves in hand. Yet the days are still dark, the weather often cold and it’s not all that tempting to put on the trainers and attempt to walk or jog off the excesses of the previous month!

There may be concerns also about the year to come. What will it bring to our families, our friends and indeed the world around us? Are there things we should do to build up our resilience, to enable us to cope? Are there skills we should learn to navigate our way more competently and effectively through life in 2026? All of these are important and legitimate questions as New Year dawns.

The reality is that we’re unlikely to smash all the goals and resolutions we might try to set for ourselves. That doesn’t make us a failure or bad people, but it tells us something about the unrealistic expectations we often have of ourselves.

One of the things we in the Parish Church have been thinking about in December is how to connect with missing generations from the Church. When we see fewer children and young people or adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s, what might draw them back or invite them in for the very first time? Sometimes it’s nothing more complicated than a personal invitation. And we offer that to you today.

Sometimes it’s providing a venue and a safe space to talk about the things that are most important to us in all the daily challenges and struggles we encounter in life.

Many of us who attend Church feel these challenges and struggles too and we get some comfort, solace and support from joining together for worship each Sunday in the Church building at the corner of Strathearn Terrace and Ferntower Road, at 11 am. You are welcome to join us any Sunday morning where you can be assured of a warm welcome, a chat and if you need it, a listening ear over a cuppa after the worship is over.

If you would like to find out more about us, please do not hesitate to get in touch. You can email us confidentially on crieffpc@ gmail.com and your request and details will

be passed on to the relevant individuals for a response. We look forward to welcoming you one of these days and in the meantime may 2026 be a year full of rich blessing for you.

Scottish Registered Charity SC004304

A congregation of the Church of Scotland within the Presbytery of Perth Congregation number 281650.

St James Episcopal Church, Muthill

Week by week, the doors open at St James Scottish Episcopal Church in Muthill to welcome all who wish to come. Prayers, songs and hymns with fellowship make everyone welcome, give strength for everyday life and link us with the mystery of the Almighty. Christmas-time is a good reminder that there is more to our lives than work and play and so it’s a good time to fit in an hour or two for thinking of bigger issues and to come along to a church for time out and contemplation. Whether you live in Muthill, or it’s just that our evening service time suits you, you are invited to join us for any of our traditional services and our refreshments afterwards. If you’d like to talk over something on your mind then you can contact Rev Duncan Strathie at stjamesmuthill@gmail.com

Reid Tree & Garden Services

• Tree felling, shaping & trimming

• All other landscaping services available

• Mono blocking, Patios & Paths laid

• Pathways & drives gravelled

• Slabbing and walls repaired or replaced

• Fencing & Turfing

• All types and sizes of trees supplied and planted - from 1m to 10m

roofing division

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Jehovah’s Witnesses

26-30 King St, Crieff PH7 3HA

Jehovah’s Witnesses hold meetings for worship twice each week. (Hebrews 10:24, 25)

At these meetings, which are open to the public, we examine what the Bible says and how we can apply its teachings in our life. Most of our services include audience participation, much like a classroom discussion. Meetings begin and end with song and prayer.

You don’t have to be one of Jehovah’s Witnesses to attend our meetings. We invite everyone to come along.

Seats are free. No collections are ever taken. www.jw.org/en

Seventh Day Adventist Church

Gwydyr Road, PH7 4BS info@crieffadventist.org.uk

We meet every Sabbath (Saturday) for our worship services. At 10 am we have our Study Hour (with separate classes for adults and children). Our main worship service is at 11.20 am and we often have other events throughout the week. Our aim and vision is to be a community that reflects faith in God demonstrated by faith in our fellow men and women, thus honouring the command of the Lord Jesus found in passages such as John 13:34,35 ‘A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.’ Come and join us...

Please check any service times listed independently before attending. If you see any out of date information, or feel that there any omissions, we’d be obliged if you could email us at crieffandcomrie@thequair.com

The Crossing Crieff

Who are we - The Crossing Crieff is a Gospel-centred, local, independent church. A Community who gather to Worship, learn from His Word, and fellowship. We believe in the power of studying the Word of God (the Bible) and having a community of people which is not just on Sunday. We meet twice a week for worship, bible study/teaching, and fellowship, in which we systematically go through the bible looking at the big picture of the bible and the individual events and stories and how it all fits together.

Service Times

Heartlands.church - At www.heartlands.church, we’re not just starting another service - we’re nurturing a rooted, relevant, and real Scottish church family, shaped by the applied Word of God and made ready for the days ahead.

Sunday Morning Service - 11 am for children service (all welcome), and 11.30 am12.30 pm for adult service, followed by tea, coffee & fellowship at Strathearn Campus, Pittenzie Rd, Crieff PH7 3JN

tuesday Evening bible study - 5.30 pm for a meal and fellowship followed by a discussion-based bible study starting at 6.15 pm - 7 pm at Craiglynne, Dallerie Road, Crieff, PH7 4EG

More Information

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about God or ourselves.

Our details are Pastor: Allan Holleran Email: info@thecrossingcrieff.co.uk Web: www.thecrossingcrieff.co.uk Tel: 07864 803123

Address: Craiglynne, Dallerie Road, Crieff, PH7 4EG. Charity No: SC052382.

Comrie Parish Church

www.comrieparishchurch.org Comrie Parish Church, 22 Burrell Street, Comrie, PH6 2JP Welcome to our Church - We seek to follow Jesus Christ, to share the Gospel, and bring the knowledge of God’s love to all.

Sunday services are 10 am Comrie Parish Church and 11.30 am Dundurn.

To contact Rev Craig Dobney call 01764 679196 or email him at CDobney@churchofscotland.org.uk. Charity No: SC 001878

Dundurn Parish Church - Dundurn Parish Church in the village of St Fillans is the linked charge with Comrie Parish Church. Sunday worship is at 11.30 am.

If you’ve been longing for preaching with backbone and Bible, community without compromise, and a place where questions are welcome but truth isn’t watered down - this might be just what you’ve been praying for. We’ve not officially launched yet - but you don’t have to wait to get a feel for who we are. Tune in from home to Kingdom.rocks - our 24-hour online radio station with heartfelt worship, daily devotions morning and evening, strong sermons, and even stories and songs for the bairns with Jingle & Ben and the Music Town Gang. Check the broadcast schedule at Kingdom.rocks, have a listen, and see if you click. Come and see. Come and listen. You’ll know if it’s home.

robert@whisperingword.com, 07975 805323, www.heartlands.church Blessings, Reverend Victor Robert Farrell

Strathearn Episcopal Churches

Crieff, Comrie, & Lochearnhead

Rev. Gennie Evans rev.gen@btinternet.com. Tel: 01764 650985

St Columba’s, Crieff; St Serf’s, Comrie; St Angus’, Lochearnhead and St Fillan’s, Killin

www.strathearn-episcopal-churches.co.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 semi-retired 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

Friends of Crieff Cemetery - Friends of Crieff Cemetery would like to thank the members of the public who attended our Remembrance War Graves Tour in November last year.

Our tour culminated at the graveside of Flight Lieutenant William ‘Bill’ Reid.

Bill received the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy for acting courageously under perilous conditions, and for returning his surviving crew members back to the safety of RAF Shipdham after a sortie over Germany in 1943.

He later told a news reporter after receiving the Victoria Cross that he was merely a ‘custodian’ of the medal, holding it to honour the bravery and sacrifices of air crews who had made it back, and for those who did not. Lest We Forget.

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Quality Blinds You Can Afford

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Venetian Blinds and Wooden Venetian

Roller Blinds and Vision Rollers

Roman Blinds

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In Venetian, Wood Venetian, Roller and Pleated

Pleated Blinds

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Café Comrie

• Traditional Scottish breakfasts • Baked potatoes

• Hot filled breakfast rolls • Home made soups

• Freshly made sandwiches & toasties • Croissants

• Mackies ice cream

• Twinnings tea selection and fresh ground coffee

• Daily special board

• Takeaways Available

Winter Opening Times will vary.

Please check our Facebook & Instagram accounts for details

Café Comrie, Drummond Street, Comrie, PH6 2DW

Tel: 07702 903309 e: Cafecomrie07@gmail.com

Comrie bridge Club - Think your bridge is a bit rusty or not good enough to join a club. Think again and give us a try. Why not turn your heating off and come for a warm welcome at Comrie Bridge club. We are a small friendly club that plays duplicate bridge each week from early October to the end of March. We welcome new players both experienced and improvers and your first visit is free. On a Wednesday afternoon you are welcome to come and just watch for a few weeks before joining in play. We play on Wednesday afternoon at 2 pm and Thursday evening at 7 pm in the Comrie Bowling Club, Camp Road. We ask players to arrive at least 15 minutes early. You do not need a partner for Wednesdays. Thursday is for pairs but if you need a partner give us a ring and we will try to arrange one for you. Both sessions have a break for tea or coffee and biscuits. The annual membership fee is £7 which includes both days and the table fee is £3 per session. If you are interested in joining us or want more information please contact: Phil 07713 643565 philiptipping61@gmail. com or Kate 07714 291077 kate@thecreativepractice.org

Front Cover Picture

Our great thank to Polly Pullar for this month’s wonderful image of a long-tailed tit that she captured locally. You can see Polly’s website at www.pollypullar.com. We usually use photos from our own stock, however if you think you have something suitable you would like us to use for The Quair please feel free to email 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.

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.

We thoroughly check your ears using state of the art video equipment and keep the images on your records so we can keep track of your ear health.

We thoroughly check your ears using state of the art video equipment and keep the images on your records so keep track of your ear health.

If your ears are blocked with wax your hearing test will not be accurate. You’re in safe hands at the Edinburgh Hearing

If your ears are blocked with wax your hearing tes accurate. You’re in safe hands at the Edinburgh Hearing

very latest audiometric equipment to record the quietest sounds that you can hear, but also importantly, the way that

very latest audiometric equipment to record the qui sounds that you can hear, but also importantly, the

both quiet and in the presence of the dreaded background noise.

both quiet and in the presence of the dreaded background noise.

Where appropriate, we perform tympanometry to check how the middle ear is working (this is a really simple comfortable test, and is nothing to be nervous about).

Where appropriate, we perform tympanometry to check how the middle ear is working (this is a really simple comfortable test, and is nothing to be nervous about).

At each stage we will explain the results really thoroughly to you and make sure that everything is completely clear.

At each stage we will explain the results really thoroughly to you and make sure that everything is completely clear.

Occasionally we may feel that onward referral is required – this is unusual, but you can trust us to always do the right thing.

Occasionally we may feel that onward referral is required – this is unusual, but you can trust us to alway 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! Gullane 01620 493000 Auchterarder 01764 219000 Edinburgh 0131 629 1819 4 Stanley Road, Gullane, East Lothian EH31 2AD or 63 High Street Auchterarder PH3 1BN

Tayside and Strathearn help for ukraine

This charity, based in a warehouse at Errol Airfield, PH2 7TB has now sent over 100 articulated lorries to Ukraine, thanks to the generosity of donations coming from individuals, organisations and sponsorship. Every lorry is filled to capacity with what our Ukrainian contacts tell us are desperately required, namely food, toiletries, nappies, formula milk, adult incontinence pads and bedding. Donations can be made to the above address or via our 17 collection points, please see below for details.

As well as sorting and packing in our warehouse on Monday and Wednesday mornings, from 9.30 am - 1 pm, some of our volunteers are involved in fundraising. We now have a van to collect donations from further afield and would appreciate it if more collection points could be established, perhaps in a hall, shop or garage. We are greatly indebted to those individuals and organisations that enable us to send our lorries to Ukraine, costing £3,500 each trip. Some of our trustees give talks about our charity.

Further information about our humanitarian work may be accessed at the following: info@tash4ukraine.org.uk, Facebook & Instagram @tash4Ukraine.

VisionPK - Comrie - VisionPK support a regular group in Comrie for people with a visual or hearing impairment. We have been running for over a year now, meeting up for a chat and some refreshments. People working or living in the community have

been invited along to chat with us about their work or interests.

Strathearn Talking News

If you would like to volunteer at the group, or come along as an attendee, then please get in touch, we would appreciate community support.

Our meetings in Comrie are in: The Lounge, Cameron Court, Almond Place, Comrie PH6 2BB. We meet every second Tuesday of the month from 10 am until 11.30 am. Tel: 01738 626969 info@visionpk.org.uk

Friends of Aytoun Hall - After the sell-out success of last year in filling a void in the town at Hogmanay, Friends of Aytoun Hall will again be organising a Ceilidh in the hall from 8.30 pm to 12.30 am. Adult £20; 12-16 year olds accompanied by adult £10. Bring your own bottle and snacks. Dance to music from the Blackford Fiddlers. Tickets can be reserved on payment by text to 07722 511565.

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.

Sing-A-Long - Comrie - Sing-a-long is now in its 13th year. If you haven’t come to take part yet…maybe now is the right time….we sing well known, good old fashioned songs (words provided), enjoy afternoon tea and have a chance to have a chat with old and new friends. We meet in Comrie and Dundurn Parish Church on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 2 pm. If you would like more details just phone 07707 727137 or 01764 670570.

Strathearn Talking News is your local talking newspaper. We are volunteers who read and record onto USB the Strathearn Herald, the local newspaper for Crieff and District. We also read and record onto USB the monthly magazine The Crieff and Comrie Quair. A USB may be more familiarly known as a memory stick.

Strathearn Talking News is a Charity (SCO 15628) and in 2014 the Charity received a grant from Awards for All to go digital. Prior to that the newspaper was recorded and copied onto cassettes. We are proud to say that Strathearn Talking News has been providing a service for nearly 35 years for those in our community with a visual impairment and who find reading difficult. We provide a USB player. It is a small lightweight box no larger than a box of tissues. It runs off the mains electricity but it can also run on a battery which is automatically charged when the player is plugged into the mains. This makes it very easy to take into other areas of the house. The yellow on/off dial at the front is also an excellent volume control. The dial and the forward/back/pause buttons are yellow to make them more vis-

ible. The service we provide is completely free. We record and copy from our own homes on a weekly rota, 52 weeks of the year. Listeners to Strathearn Talking News hear local news concerning Crieff and the surrounding villages. We record all the news items, letters to the Editor, Intimations, Planning Applications, reports from local Clubs and Organisations, a calendar of events, as well as the main feature in the newspaper that week. We also do our best to describe photographs!

The Crieff and Comrie Quair is an open access monthly magazine and carries articles on a variety of interesting topics. We record and copy it onto our weekly USB once a month.

E: info@strathearntalkingnews.org

T: Maureen Anderson 01764 652406

W: www.strathearntalking news.org

I hope readers had a relaxing Christmas and New Year in the company of family and friends.

At the end of November, I visited the excellent Scottish Adventure School in Crieff, situated within the grounds of Ardvreck School.

The Scottish Adventure School is a provider of residential outdoor education and is headed by Andy Robertson. It was excellent to hear Andy’s passion and dedication for delivering this type of high-quality outdoor learning. The centre’s operation is very impressive, and I can see why this outdoor centre is so popular for schools from right across the country - 75% of which were state schools in 2025.

The purpose of my visit was to discuss the implications of my Outdoor Education Bill and to see the improvements Andy has made to the site and the facilities on offer to youngsters. I was especially impressed with the accommodation provision which can comfortably house 130 people at a time and has recently received heavy investment in new bathrooms and showers.

As local readers of The Crieff and Comrie Quair will know, The Scottish Adventure School is perfectly located for outdoor education, given its proximity to the upper moorlands around Ben Chonzie and Glen Turret, as well as the Rivers Earn and Tay, and Bennybeg. On a residential outdoor experience here, youngsters can expect a wide variety of outdoor activities including rock climbing, canoeing and rafting, mountain biking, as well as making use of the facilities on site including an archery range and high ropes courses. During my frequent visits to outdoor centres, it is always so clear to see just how enthusiastic the instructors are for providing children with a residential experience that will stay with them for life. There is a wealth of evidence that shows how beneficial it can be for youngsters’ confidence, independence and resilience. This positivity is reflected on the young people attending who overwhelmingly enjoy the outdoor activities, being away from home, and free from all the distractions of mobile phones. These experiences can be daunting at first, but they are teaching young people key life skills and the feedback is always so positive.

As always if any local residents would like to raise issues with me please get in touch by calling my office on 01738 553990 or emailing elizabeth.smith.msp@parliament.scot

Crieff Macular Support Group

Crieff Macular Support Group is here to help anyone who has macular degeneration or any form of sight loss. Everyone is welcome at this small friendly group.

We meet at the Small Hall of St Andrew’s Parish Church of Scotland, Strathearn Terrace, Crieff PH7 3AQ from 10 am to 12 pm on the first Monday of the month. We often have speakers, on a wide range of topics connected with the local community, sight or general interest. It can be helpful to meet other people who have problems with their sight and we enjoy the social interaction at the meetings over tea/coffee and biscuits. We would welcome new members and would encourage anyone interested to join us. Friends, family members and carers are welcome at the group too.

If you know of someone in another area how might benefit from their local Macular Society Support Group, please let me know. For more information about the Crieff Macular Society Support Group, if you would like to come to the meetings or help with the group or if you have any questions, please contact Laura Gray, Senior Regional Manager, Macular Society on 07948 352967 or email laura.gray@macularsociety.org.

Crieff Community Garden - Calling all community builders, lovers of nature, people and the planet. Help is needed to restore and refresh the Crieff Community Garden to its former glory, to recreate a safe welcoming area for all; a place of peace and purpose, of beauty and connection. This is a space open for the community, run by the community. It is the perfect place for schools, both primary and secondary, for local businesses, families and friends and individuals to become involved and learn, through nature, about the growth of co-operation and co-habitation. As a garden flourishes so do we. On a practical level a secretary and a co-ordinator are urgently needed, as well as willing helpers, who can offer an hour or so here and there to prune, weed and plant. All ages, abilities, beliefs and backgrounds are welcome. Please step up and become part of a caring community group who have spent thousands of hours over the last few years creating this vibrant, living space which now needs to be restored and maintained. Let’s show a world that seems to be collapsing that a better place can be built from the grassroots (literally) up! Please contact Catriona on 07743 113140 or Diana on 07552 312386 or join us in the garden on Wednesday evenings from 6 pm to 8 pm, weather permitting, and until the days shorten.

What is a Quair? (noun) (1) A quire; a book. The Kingis Quhair, James I. (of Scotland). (2) A set of twenty-four sheets of paper of the same size and stock; one twentieth of a ream. (3) A collection of leaves of parchment or paper, folded one within the other, in a manuscript or book. (Middle English quayer, four double sheets of paper, from Old French quaer, from Vulgar Latin *quaternus, from Latin quatern, set of four, four each, from quater, four times;

The Kingis Quhair is a fifteenth-century poem attributed to James I of Scotland. It is a semi-autobiographical work, describing the King’s capture by the English in 1406 on his way to France and his subsequent imprisonment by Henry IV of England and his successors Henry V and Henry VI.

The Arts Society Tayside - Our lecture season at Birnam Arts continues and on Monday, 8 December we enjoyed our fourth lecture of the season: Gavin Plumley on ‘Bruegel - The Seasons and the World’. We kick off 2026 with Zara Fleming - ‘Bhutan, Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon’ on Monday, 12 January, followed by five further lectures at Birnam in store for the rest of our 2025/6 season.

In addition, we are very pleased to announce that tickets for our winter lectures, open to members and guests, are now available: ‘To Draw or Not to Draw: Six Great Painters of the Seventeenth Century’, by the excellent lecturer Dr Andrew Patterson, whom members and guests will remember from last year. The lectures take place on Thursday, 22 January (Velasquez and Rubens) Thursday, 29 January (Poussin and Caravaggio) and Thursday, 5 February 2026 (Rembrandt and Vermeer). They take place at The Soutar Theatre, The AK Bell Library, Perth, at 10 am for 10.30 am, and the series of three lectures costs £30. Please contact our Winter Lectures Secretary on pamjmurray@hotmail.com to make a booking.

The Arts Society Tayside is a not-for-profit, volunteer-run, society, dedicated to providing its members with enjoyable and approachable experiences in the arts, and supporting local good causes related to art. Each year we offer our 300 members ten absorbing and accessible morning or afternoon lectures on the second Monday of the month at Birnam Arts on a wide variety of topics, as well as a range of house, garden and gallery visits and interesting add-on days and lectures.

Please visit our website to see the full programme: theartssocietytayside.org.uk. You can join us for the balance of our 2025/6 season for a reduced membership of £45, which includes admission to the remaining five lectures and gives access to our other lecture and visit programmes. Come and join us! Please contact us for a complimentary lecture or to become a member: tastmembership@gmail.com or 01350 724232.

Can Do Crieff - Can Do Crieff would like to extend a Happy New Year to you all. The end of 2025 was busy for us as we hosted a very successful AI Adoption workshop in partnership with the Scottish AI Alliance and also joined Lewis Ness on his Daytime show at Heartland FM. If you have made any new year resolutions to be more productive at work, why not come and have a look around Can Do Crieff. It offers a warm and friendly environment away from any distractions at home and also provides fast Wi-Fi, comfortable desks and meeting spaces with flexible membership options (day passes through to unlimited 24/7 access) with no contracts or long commitments.

at Crieff Connexions. There were lots of groups from Crieff and beyond who submitted proposals, offering a variety of localised and creative solutions to help address the cost of living crisis.

Find out more at www.candocrieff.com or message us via candocrieff@gmail.com and we would be happy to show you around.

Crieff Connexions - Welcoming the Citizens Advice Bureau back to Crieff Many thanks to all of those who took part in the recent Green Living and Fairer Communities voting process. It culminated at the start of December with an event revealing the results of the public vote. The event itself was a lovely time where many community groups gathered, sharing some nibbles and talking about what their organisation is doing. It is always encouraging to hear what is going on. We were also able to celebrate with the friends and family of learners who had been working on courses for months and were presented with their certificates, some of whom are volunteers

There were two separate funding streams being reported on: the Green Living fund and the Fairer Communities for All fund. Crieff Connexions submitted proposals to both funds and we were delighted by the support we received, which meant that we were awarded money from each. Funding from the Green Living fund will enable us to purchase a freezer to store food picked up daily by volunteers at the end of the day from supermarkets, which is then used to stock our food pantry. This is a much-needed piece of equipment and will help us cut down on food waste, so we appreciate all your votes.

In speaking with many residents of Crieff, it became clear that not having Citizens Advice in the town was a real loss. Travelling to Perth, having to make phone calls or searching online for the right person had become a significant barrier for people needing their services. As a result, Crieff Connexions submitted a bid to the Fairer Communities for All fund in collaboration with Citizens Advice Perth. Our hope was to bring Citizens Advice back to Crieff and we were delighted to be awarded the full amount we asked for. Thank you for the support you showed us through your votes. Plans are already under way to make this happen. We are anticipating weekly dropin sessions with Citizens Advice starting in January. Keep an eye on Facebook and in The Quair for more details, and thank you again for supporting this important project.

Community Fund, helping us plan for an even more ambitious spring. On November 1, our coffee morning at the White Church in Comrie raised nearly £1,000 thanks to the generosity and support of our local community. Together, this means we’re on track to plant around 40,000 more snowdrops in spring 2026.

Our planting season has now drawn to a close for this year, and we’re taking a wellearned rest as we look forward to seeing the first blooms of 2026. Seeing snowdrops return to our public open spaces while flood defence work continues will be a welcome reminder of what community spirit can achieve and give us all a little sign of hope that things will soon return to normal.

We remain focused on our long-term goal of planting 300,000 snowdrops and leaving a living and lasting legacy for our village. To find out more or get involved, visit comriesnowdrops.org.uk or follow us on Facebook at Comrie Snowdrops.

Comrie Probus Club

Comrie Snowdrops - The 19,000 snowdrops which we’ve already planted are now quietly preparing to emerge in early 2026 at the War Memorial Garden, the White Church, and along the Lednock Footpath. These first plantings mark the beginning of our plans to create a series of beautiful winter walking trails for residents and visitors to enjoy. Last year, we were delighted to receive a £5,000 grant from the National Lottery

All meetings are held on every other Wednesday at the Comrie Parish Church Hall at 10.30 am starting with tea and coffee followed by the presentation of the day.

We recommence on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, with a further 6 meetings, under the guidance of our chairman, Ian Rogers. The meeting dates are:

Wednesday, 14 January The Rise and Rise of Wild Hearth Bakery

Wednesday, 28 January Wilder Thinking Wednesday, 11 February Costa Concorda

Wednesday, 25 February 50 Years of Organ Grinder’s Monkey

Wednesday, 11 March Branklyn Gardensa Perthshire Gem

Wednesday, 25 March - AGM followed by Lunch at Comrie Golf Club

Membership is open to everyone, we are a friendly club and all are welcome. Please come along and give us a try.

For further information please contact Judith Rogers on 01764 679727 or 07772 967160 or Malcolm Gregory on 01764 670493 or 07752 498187.

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.

Arran Road

CENTRAL HOME ALARMS

Established 1981

Tayside’s First SSAIB Registered Company. Reg. No. Tays 001

Security Alarms

Installed, Repaired, Serviced & Updated.

Phone Bob Anderson on 01764 670540

Founder member of IAAI

Cycle Crieff Charity - Our aim is to support all aspects of cycling in the area. We’re not a shop; we are an inclusive community helping everyone. What we do

Routes, repairs and reuse and donations - *Affordable access to cycling: Low-cost or free bikes are provided through donations, recycling and rebuilding. In 2025, over 128 bikes were renovated! *Repairs and Workshop Support: A flexible community workshop offers servicing, self-repair space, guidance from highly qualified mechanics, and donated parts like lights. Many stranded cyclists have had emergency help. *Routes and Riding Community: Over 153 events were hosted this year. *Training and Education: ongoing ‘look after your bike’ workshops with Cubs, schools, refugees and Cadets. *Volunteering and Community Partnerships. free bikes! - We have a lovely range of donated nearly-new bikes. Please get in touch if you would like a bike. The Hoy children’s bike is lovely and any donation made to have the bike will be given to prostate cancer.

Crieff community a’ (easy social), ‘b’ and ‘C’ rides - There are regular bimonthly social rides and rides instigated by local riders which will be continuing in 2026 from March. Our recent Bike Sale and Dr Bike was a success and we always have a range of serviced and affordable bikes.

Warm places - Bikes, chat and humour! We’re opening up the workshop to all, over the winter, on the following Sundays: 4 January, 11 January, 18 January, 8 February and 22 February. We’ll be at the workshop from 2 pm to 4 pm for drinks, Damsel goodies and bike chat! Please get in touch ahead, if you can, and we’ll make sure we have enough of everything. Bring a bike along for free checks to see how it’s done! All welcome!

Volunteers - We have had a few fantastic volunteers over the last few years. Are you practical and keen to learn new skills? Free training and qualifications available and of

course you can build your own bike! Age and gender not important! Finally - Thanks to everyone who supported our application to PKC for funding to support the project over the next few months. This will allow us to expand our project and support even more people to enjoy cycling in Crieff and Strathearn. 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. Emailcyclecrieff@yahoo.com. Website - Routes (Scottish Charity No. SCO54428)

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A very Happy New Year to everyone across Strathearn! I hope you all managed a bit of a breather over Christmas and get some quality time with loved ones. January can feel like a bit of a long haul, but it also gives us that sense of a clean slate and new opportunities. I’m looking forward to the year ahead and to continuing to work hard for the communities I’m so proud to represent. One upsetting local issue that emerged since my last column, and was the fire that destroyed the shed at Crieff Community Garden at the end of November. I visited the site the following morning, and speaking with the folk who’ve been involved since the garden was first created gave a clear picture of just how much time, effort and genuine community spirit has gone into building and maintaining it over the years.

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Perthshire South & Kinross-shire

I can be contacted by telephone on 01738 620540 or by email at Jim.fairlie.msp@parliament.scot

The garden was set up more than a decade ago in response to antisocial behaviour identified by Perth & Kinross Council’s Safer Communities Team. Since then, it has grown into a much-valued space, used by volunteers, families and young people. Many local people have told me how it has supported wellbeing and helped strengthen connections across the community. That’s why it’s particularly frustrating for them to see the site repeatedly targeted. Following my visit, I wrote to Police Scotland and Perth and Kinross Council, passing on the detailed background and constructive suggestions that constituents shared with me. One of the practical ideas put forward is to explore installing CCTV and improved lighting at the north end of the campus grounds, nearer the garden. Constituents also pointed out that the Strathearn Community Campus management team used to be more closely involved in oversight of the area, and that renewing partnership working between the Campus, the Council and Police Scotland could help reduce further incidents. I was pleased to receive a response from Police Scotland confirming that they are actively working with Perth and Kinross Council to address the points raised in my letter. It is encouraging to see a coordinated approach being taken by all relevant parties to try to improve the situation.

Jim Fairley MSP

South & Kinross-shire - SNP

on ???? ???? or jim.fairlie.msp@parlia-

On a brighter note, I was later in touch with Glenturret Distillery, who very kindly offered to replace the shed for the community. This is a fantastic example of local business stepping up to support the community, and shows the spirit of Crieff at its best. I’ve been helping to coordinate discussions between Glenturret and the garden volunteers to make sure this generous offer becomes a reality.

So as we step into the new year, there’s plenty of work still to do - but with local commitment, partnership working, and practical support, I’m confident that challenges like this can be turned into opportunities to strengthen our communities and make Crieff an even better place for everyone to live.

If you need to contact me or if you would like to make a surgery appointment to see me, please check my social media or get in touch with my office, 63 Glasgow Road, Perth, PH2 0PE. You can on 01738 620540 or email me at Jim.Fairlie.MSP@Parliament.Scot.

brass Central strathearn - Happy New Year to you all! We’ve just wrapped up a wonderful festive season filled with lots of events, and we’re incredibly grateful for every smile, kind message, and generous donation. Your support makes all the hard work and rehearsal worthwhile. As we step into the new year, we’re excited to look out some fresh music, which is always a highlight for the band. We’re also putting the finishing touches on our 2026 events calendar, so keep an eye out for what’s coming up.

Wishing all our supporters a fantastic year ahead! And if your New Year’s resolution is to try something new, why not pick up a musical instrument? New members are always welcome. Feel free to contact us at brasscstrath@gmail.com.

Jim

The Crieff & Comrie Quair

is published by sCot aCtivE ltd with a registered office address of 26/30 bonnethill road, pitlochry, ph16 5bs Company Number SC854228 tel/text: 07436 793785 e: crieffandcomrie@thequair.com

Perth and Kinross Council

Crieff Area Office 01738 476000

Council Main Reception 01738 475000

Registrars - by appointment 01764 657850

useful numbers

Crieff Community Hospital 01764 653173

Police Scotland 101 infinityblu Dental 01764 650480

Crieff Vet Services 01764 652086

Flying Smiles Dental Hygienist 07812 055724

Advertising Information

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 Sunday, 7 December 2025. 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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Crieff Rotary - On December 3, Crieff Rotary staged its latest Young Chef competition, making use of the splendid kitchens at Crieff High School. Eight talented youngsters, comprising four each from the High School and from Morrison’s Academy, took part by preparing and cooking a two-course meal under the watchful eye of our two judges, local chefs Yannick Grospellier and Andrew Greenan. Points were awarded across a number of categories, including cost (no more than £18 could be spent on the ingredients), method of preparation, tidiness, style of presentation of the completed meal and, of course, its taste. Repeating his kind assistance from last year, our 2023-2024 winning Young Chef, Rowan Haines, came back to this first round of the 2025-26 competition to present the trophy - only to discover that the winner was his younger brother Alasdair!

Rowan famously went on through three more stages to eventually become the champion Rotary Young Chef across Great Britain and Ireland. We are pretty sure that Alasdair will be hoping to emulate his big brother’s amazing progress which will start with the North of Scotland District final in a few weeks’ time.

When declaring the final result, our two judges admitted that they had been very impressed by all the entries from the eight young competitors before awarding first place to Alasdair who was one of those representing Crieff High School. Second place went to Anna Rowley from Morrison’s Academy, while third place was taken by Rosie Kimber, also from Morrison’s Academy. Needless to say, supporting teachers Sarah McCully from Crieff High School and Stella Russon from Morrison’s Academy were very proud of their respective pupils. The final bills for the equipment for our new village maize mill in Malawi have now been paid and that has enabled Crieff Rotary to release its remaining funds for other charitable activities. This included support for CAP (Christians Against Poverty) by providing one of that charity’s Christmas hampers which were being distributed those local families who were not capable of enjoying the festivities in the manner to which the rest of us might be accustomed. Incidentally, by the time this edition of The Crieff & Comrie Quair has been published, we are hoping that the first load of maize will have been processed at our new mill and the Malawian villagers will have made their last 10-mile trudge each way to the nearest commercial mill to get

their maize turned into grain, instead now enjoying the convenience of their marvellous local facility. 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 this QR code, or visit its website, or email the Secretary at Secretary@crieff.rotary1010.org.

Photograph above - Presentation to Alasdair Haines by brother Rowan with judges Andrew Greenan and Yannick Grospellier.
Young Chef participants with Sarah McCully (CHS) and Stella Russon (Morrison’s Academy)

bespokestairscrieff.com alan@bespokestairscrieff.com 07544 634 964

Staircases

Comrie & District Men’s Shed quiz night

We are holding a Quiz Night on Friday, 20 February at the Royal British Legion Hall in Crieff from 7.30 pm to 10 pm. Doors open at 6.30 pm. This is the Shed’s first Crieff-based event so come along and help us make it a memorable evening.

A reasonably priced bar will be available. Tickets (£10 per table of four), you can reserve by emailing comriemensshed@gmail.com, phoning 07917 358216 or by simply calling into Hut 65 at the Cultybraggan Camp (We are open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm). Alternatively, you can just turn up on the night.

Book now and we’ll see you at the quiz.

perth Citizens advice bureau - You can reach Perth CAB for Advice on: FREEPhone: 0808 196 9440 10am - 3pm Mon to Fri (Free from landlines and mobiles) E: advice@perthcab.org.uk W: www.perthcab.org.uk

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Café Comrie, Drummond Street, Comrie, PH6 2DW

A superb café business in a popular Perthshire town Same owners for the last 18 years - retirement sale

• Well-presented premises • 30 covers

• Separate Ice Cream Parlour

• Neatly presented kitchen and preparation areas

• Currently trading 5 days per week to suit owners

• Trading 5 days week (9am - 4pm) closed Sunday and Monday

the evenings

Why are we considered the best holiday let management company in the area?

Custom website

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Very competitive commission

Comrie Silver Circle - The new season started on Thursday, 4 September at 2 pm, meeting in the Comrie Parish Church Hall. All Welcome. Phone Myra if you need transport. 01764 670166. In the following months, just say. Comrie Silver Circle meets every Thursday at 2 pm in the Parish Church Hall. Entertainment and afternoon tea at 3 pm. All Welcome. Phone Myra if you need transport 01764 670166.

Abbeyfield Breadalbane Society

Abbeyfield Breadalbane Society offers supported sheltered housing at Eskdale House in the centre of Aberfeldy, with a focus on maintaining residents’ independence while offering support and companionship.

• The eight residents’ rooms are en-suite and include a “mini kitchen”with a small fridge, kettle, toaster etc.

• Two hot meals a day, room cleaning and a laundry service are provided.

• Staff are on hand during the day, and all residents’ rooms are linked to a community alarm service for peace of mind overnight.

• There is a shared lounge/dining room and conservatory where volunteers organise activities such as Scrabble and film nights. Residents appreciate the opportunity to maintain their independence within a caring and friendly setting.

For more information on what Abbeyfield Breadalbane has to offer please contact House Manager Claire on 01887 820606 or email eskdale1974@outlook.com

Crieff Trefoil - Crieff Trefoil continues to meet throughout the year on the fourth Monday monthly - indoors over the winter and at various locations outdoors over the summer months. Our indoor autumn/ winter sessions began recently and are held at St Columba’s Episcopal Church, when meetings will once again this year be full of surprise activities.

Each year we are tasked by UK Trefoil with attracting only one new member to each of our Guilds - could you be that one new member? Crieff Trefoil is a small, active, fun group but play an active part in the bigger Perth & Kinross County, Scotland and the UK with national and international opportunities, eg holidays at home and abroad, available for all members - why not give us a try?

For further information Crieff Trefoil can be contacted by email at criefftrefoilguild@ gmail.com or by making an enquiry via the Trefoil Guild website www.trefoilguild. co.uk. Trefoil Guild Scotland and Trefoil Guild UK have public Facebook pages and are also on Instagram where you can see much of the fun activities we get up toyou may be surprised!

Crieff Lunch Club - Crieff Lunch Club is run under the auspices of the Royal Voluntary service and staffed by a brilliant group of volunteers from Crieff and district.

We meet in Duchlage Court in Crieff every Thursday lunchtime in term time, and provide a 2 course lunch and tea and biscuits for a very modest cost. It is a great opportunity for folk living alone to come along, meet others and have a hot meal together. Transport to the lunch for those who live out with Duchlage Court can be arranged through Bertie bus. We are always looking for new clients and, of course, new volunteers to join our teams of volunteer helpers for about 2 hours, once a month. If you are interested in coming along or volunteering for the lunch club, please contact the RVS office in Perth on 01738 633975 or email at perthsupportingyou@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk.

a new year

As the calendar turns and a fresh year begins, there’s no better time to plan an escape that inspires, restores, and excites. And where better than Scotland, a land where dramatic landscapes meet centuries of hi tory, cosy hideaways meet vibrant cities, and every turn feels like the start of a new story.

Whether you’re dreaming of windswept coastlines, snow-topped mountains, charming villages, or the warm glow of a fire-lit pub, Scotland offers the perfect backdrop for a year of unforgettable adventures

s year, let Scotland be your place to reset, reconnect, and rediscover the joy of exploration Whether your getaway is a quiet retreat, an epic road trip, or a slow wander through its historic towns, Scotland welcomes you with open arms, this New Year and every year beyond

to new adventures and here’s to Exploring Scotland!

Comrie Community Woodland

Comrie Community Woodland is about 300 metres west of Cultybraggan Camp on south side of the road. The 45-acre site was bought for the Community along with the Camp in 2007. Unique features are the irrigation system that was built in 1941 to supply water to the new POW camp below and the overall shape, about 1 km long by only 100 metres wide in places. On a northfacing hillside, some parts are quite steep and for over ten years it was mostly used for grazing. Volunteers got together to develop the site and in 2021 planted about twenty thousand trees - all native varieties while hundreds more have been planted since. The site is open all day, every day to visitors. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code applies, guiding you to clear up any litter while enjoying your visit responsibly.

Colin Andrew Smith Architect . Treetops . Dull . Aberfeldy . PH15 2JQ 01887 820815 . colin@casarchitect.co.uk . www.casarchitect.co.uk

Heather Watson-Ross BSc (Hons) MCPod - Registered HCPC Podiatrist/Chiropodist

Ochils Podiatry offers a comprehensive range of podiatry/chiropody treatments.

Third Sundays of each month are volunteering days when anyone is welcome to meet and join us from 10 am till about 3 pm, while we perform a variety of maintenance tasks. Projects include checking fencing, clearing paths, development of signage, construction of bridges, benches & picnic tables and removal of vegetation threatening tree growth.

We welcome volunteers of all ages and abilities. Activities are provided for children, who should be 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 we need.

For all enquiries please contact by: Telephone 01764 752252 Email info@ochilspodiatry.co.uk www.ochilspodiatry.co.uk

We are located within Davidsons Chemist, 54-56 High St, Auchterarder.

"Keeping the community

on their feet"

Strathearn Ramblers

Thursday, 19 February - Stroll/Walk, Combined stroll and walk Valleyfield Woods and Culross. Start Point: Culross (what3words: trickled.give.harshest). Distance: Stroll 4.5 miles, walk 6.5 miles. Leave: Laggan Park, Comrie 9 am, Crieff Co-op 9.15 am. Description: This mixed coastal and woodland walk takes in some of the highlights of West Fife including the lovely Valleyfield Woods (well known for their snowdrops) and the picturesque village of Culross. Much work has been done on the footpaths in the area by the hardworking volunteers of the West Fife Woodlands Group. All start at Culross and head east on the Fife Coastal Path with the strollers heading into Valleyfield Woods to admire the snowdrops. The walkers will divert to take in a circuit of Preston Island and the salt pans before heading into Valleyfield Woods. The route back passes the abbey back into picturesque Culross which can then be explored if time allows.

Saturday, 14 March - Stroll, Murthly Castle and the banks of the Silvery Tay. Start Point: Murthly village (park and meet at the Nisa local). Distance: 6.5 miles. Leave: Laggan Park, Comrie 9.45 am, Crieff Co-op 10 am. Description: A chance to enjoy a delightful circular walk around the Murthly castle estate and parkland. It offers fine riverside views and a chance to see several mature specimen trees that are amongst the finest in Perthshire. Wildlife sightings are possible, and the walking is generally easy on flat tracks and drives. NB: We will park on the main street in the village since there is very limited parking at the entrance to the castle. Thursday, 26 March - Walk, Tombane, Ballinloan and Drumour Circuit. Start Point: Little Tombane track (grid ref NN 9560 3986) (what3words: meatball.subtitle.writers). NB: We will need to use as few cars as possible, and drivers will need instructions to turn in Meikle Findowie entrance on opposite side of road to access the Little Tombane track when approaching from Amulree. Distance: 6 miles. Leave: Laggan Park, Comrie 9 am, Crieff Co-op 9.15 am. Description: Over half this rough walk is pathless, but it will take participants up through the wood then out across pasture past two

ruined townships then along an ancient track through forest to Griffin Wind Farm. The return is beside lovely Ballinloan Burn before joining the Old Military Road over Drumour, passing Corbenic’s Poetry Path. Sunday, 12 April - Stroll, Muckhart and Rumbling Bridge. Start Point: Coronation Hall, Pool of Muckhart (what3words: announce. snack.asterisk). Distance: 6.5 miles. Leave: Comrie Laggan Park 10 am, Crieff Co-op car park 10.15 am, Coronation Hall, Pool of Muckhart 10.45 am. Description: This lovely circular walk starts from the Pool of Muckhart, takes you past Muckhart Mill and through the Rumbling Bridge Gorge before returning to Muckhart via farm tracks. There is about 180m of ascent in total which is spread out across the walk making this pretty much a flat walk. The route is entirely on paths/tracks and quiet roads although some bits can be very muddy.

Friday, 24 April - Walk, North Third Reservoir from the Bannockburn Centre. Start Point: Battle of Bannockburn Centre (what3words: plans.heave.slate). Distance: 9 miles. Leave: Laggan Park, Comrie 9 am, Crieff Co-op 9.15 am. Description: Starting from Battle of Bannockburn car park we cross the M9 following minor road passing Old Sauchie before climbing to the craggy escarpment of Lewis Hill with superb views all around. We then descend to North Third reservoir, walking round the shore before crossing the dam and coming down back through some woodland and passing by a fishery before rejoining the road leading back over the M9 and back to the car park. The route is on minor roads, tracks and paths which can be muddy, please wear appropriate footwear.

Army Cadets - Ever thought about giving the Army Cadets a go? We are a youth organisation for children aged 12 to 18, run by volunteers, giving children opportunities to enhance their sports, try new things, and learn skills out in the field. We are also active DofE leaders, supporting everyone wishing to take part. Currently parading on a Wednesday in Meadow Place, Crieff, from 7 pm to 9 pm or in Auchterarder on Mondays from 7 pm to 9 pm. We are always looking for girls and boys to join and see what we can offer you.

Check out our poster below with a QR code, which will give anyone who is interested more information to see what it’s all about. We hope to see many of you soon!

The copy date for the February 2026 edition of The Crieff & Comrie Quair is noon on Tuesday, 13 January. The magazines will be distributed week commencing Monday, 2 February.

IT'S TIME TO GET STARTED

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Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries

Strathearn Community Library bookbug sessions - These fun, interactive sessions are suitable for preschoolers from baby years. The sessions are held every Thursday, including school holidays, from 10.30 am to 11 am. No need to book.

Tangled Yarns - Connect, share and learn with our friendly, informal knitting group. Needles and yarns will be available for beginners or those re-engaging with the craft. Group meets every Tuesday from 2 pm to 3.30 pm.

Strathearn Writing Group - This free, informal workshop takes place on the first Tuesday of every month, 5.30 pm to 6.30 pm, beginning Tuesday, 6 January. Café books - Do you love to read? Join us at our informal Café Book session, find new authors, share your own favourite books, and be inspired to read more. If you sign up for our Café Books emailing 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, 11 am to 12.30 pm.

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. Using your own device is recommended, but we do have laptops available if required. These sessions are free. Please contact the library for more information.

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 for more information on 07716 119414. E-resources - Culture Perth and Kinross Libraries have online library services available 24/7 via the library website (www. culturepk.org.uk/libraries) or by downloading the library app: browse the library catalogue, online joining, requesting and renew-

ing items. A selection of e-resources is also available from the library website (www.culturepk.org.uk/libraries): e-books, e-audio books, e-magazines, e-news and e-reference resources, including trove.scot, Theory Test PRO and Ancestry.

New Year - Strathearn Community Library will reopen on Tuesday, 6 January at 10 am after the Christmas and New Year closure. Please note that the library will be closed on Thursday, 8 January, for staff training.

Strathearn Community Library 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 - In July, the daughter of a prisoner of war at Cultybraggan Camp visited and kindly donated her father’s diary in which there is an account of how some of those interned celebrated Christmas.

Monday, 4 December 1944 - Our church project is progressing well. The barrack designated for church services is becoming more and more beautiful. Every evening, we gather round the stove in this little church and practise our hymns. We copied a Choral Mass from a borrowed scoreboard. The choir director from the neighbouring officers’ compound managed to smuggle a few four-part hymns to us over the barbed wire after weeks of effort. One of the greatest blessings came through a brief conversation with Colonel Ziemann, a noble and distinguished older gentleman, who is said to be a music professor. He transcribed the entire four-part score of Schubert’s Mass for us! Can we learn Schubert’s Mass by Christmas? Now we are hard at work practising. We have almost no supplies - no paper, no ink, no pencils!

Christmas 1944 - Our church had taken on a festive appearance. Through the tireless work of a few dedicated comrades, our sim-

ple altar was transformed into a magnificent high altar.

The wooden cross now had a hand-carved corpus. Candlesticks were crafted from wood. Stars were cut from tin cans. The entire altar was adorned with fir branches, with Christmas trees standing on either side.

A generous English civilian donated large candles, holy water, and even a small bell for the altar server. Before the Midnight Mass began, an English officer visited our little church and was visibly moved by what he saw.

At 5.45 pm on December 24, the Mass began. The church was packed with prisoners. The altar glowed in the light of candles and searchlights, creating a breathtakingly solemn atmosphere. We opened with the Kyrie from Schubert’s Mass. The melodies soared over the heads of the congregation, touching every heart with the deep reverence of the moment.

On Christmas Day, in the afternoon, our small choir and those who had worked on decorating the church gathered for a small celebration. A long table, decorated with fir branches, was set up. Everyone brought some baked goods. Coffee was prepared on a small stove.

We stood around the altar and sang ‘Holy, Holy’. Many of us were moved to tears.

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 4 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 well-deserved break.

Please also always check up to date details at www.cashaccess.co.uk/hubs/crieff-perthand-kinross

Meetings are held in the Rural Hall, Comrie, starting between 12 pm and 12.30 pm on a Tuesday, but never on the second Tuesday in the month. A light lunch follows, after which we move to the subject for the day. Regardless of the programme we finish no later than 4 pm.

We finished 2025 with a superb buffet provided by Bistro Comrie which was enjoyed by all attending members.

We recommence with a full eight meetings, with performances by Howard Duffie and Comrie Kidds Strings. our 2026 dates are as follows -Tuesday, 20 January - John Southorn. Sibelius Violin Concerto No. 5 Tuesday, 27 JanuaryRoger S Smith. ‘Female composers’ Tuesday, 3 February - Jan Southorn. ‘Music of my life’ Tuesday, 17 February - Eric Perks. ‘Relationships in music - romantic and other’ Tuesday, 24 February - Alison Hunter. ‘Tchaikovsky - life of’ Tuesday, 3 March - Howard Duffie Tuesday, 17 MarchComrie Kidds Strings Tuesday, 24 March - AGM and members’ requests Membership is open to everyone and all are welcome. We are a very friendly club that plays videos, listens to various genres of music and welcomes occasional live entertainers, so please come and see. If further information is required, please contact Malcolm Gregory: home 01764 670493 or mobile 07752 498187.

Crieff and Strathearn Museum

Cross Paths with History

The museum is closed for winter and although closed work goes on behind the scenes. We are busy packing away this year’s displays and getting ready for next year. As always if you would like to support the museum by becoming a member, please check our website for details and a membership form or pop into the museum and

join. The membership fee is £15 per annum and you will be helping us with the running costs of keeping the museum open. We accept cash or card payments.

If you are interested in volunteering as a guide or helping in any other way at the museum then please email us at: info@crieffandstrathearnmuseum.org.uk. Our website is: www.crieffandstrathearnmuseum.org.uk (Scottish Charity No. SC048238).

Crieff bridge Club - Crieff Bridge Club has resumed its activities for the winter. We meet every Tuesday in Crieff Golf Club starting at 6.30 pm. We would welcome new pairs and anyone interested should contact our Secretary, Donald Smith, for further details. (smithdonald@tiscali.co.uk). We are a very friendly club and would make new comers, regardless of ability, most welcome.

Dun Coillich - Where people and nature thrive

Dun Coillich is a community-owned landscape regeneration and rural skills training project in Glen Goulandie. The site is owned by the charity Highland Perthshire Communities Land Trust, which manages the land for wildlife and for the local community. Join us! Why not become a member of HPCLT? Our members support our work to restore precious habitats and make Dun Coillich more accessible to local people, and they also become part of our community. Annual membership is £15. To find out more please go to www.duncoillich. org/support-us-2025.

Volunteering update - Dun Coillich is a wonderful place for volunteering, with its beautiful landscapes, thriving wildlife and friendly, welcoming staff and volunteers. December’s tasks involved making sure that our newly installed deer fence can be seen by low-flying birds including the rare black grouse.

CRIEFF & STRATHEARN MUSEUM

We meet every Tuesday from 10 am until 3 pm and on the last Sunday of the month. Tasks include improving footpaths, planting and pruning trees, checking fences and helping with ecological monitoring. Contact our Project Officer Heather Hamilton for more info - projectofficer@hpclt.org.

Crieff
Comrie & St Fillans Music Circle

Replay is a brand-new two-day music festival coming to the South Inch in Perth on 15th and 16th August 2026 - brought to you by the same team behind the much-loved Heartland Festival in Pitlochry.

Replay is a brand-new two-day music festival coming to the South Inch in Perth on 15th and 16th August 2026 - brought to you by the same team behind the much-loved Heartland Festival in Pitlochry.

Replay is a brand-new two-day music festival coming to the South Inch in Perth on 15th and 16th August 2026 - brought to you by the same team behind the much-loved Heartland Festival in Pitlochry.

With a completely different musical vibe, Replay celebrates the feel-good sounds of the 80s, 90s and 00s, bringing together iconic artists, great energy and a f riendly, welcoming atmosphere.

With a completely different musical vibe, Replay celebrates the feel-good sounds of the 80s, 90s and 00s, bringing together iconic artists, great energy and a f riendly, welcoming atmosphere.

With a completely different musical vibe, Replay celebrates the feel-good sounds of the 80s, 90s and 00s, bringing together iconic artists, great energy and a f riendly, welcoming atmosphere.

Expect a safe, family-minded weekend with great local food and drink, accessible viewing areas, space for dogs, clean, wellmanaged toilets and all the organisation and care you’ ve come to trust f rom the Heartland team.

Expect a safe, family-minded weekend with great local food and drink, accessible viewing areas, space for dogs, clean, wellmanaged toilets and all the organisation and care you’ ve come to trust f rom the Heartland team.

Expect a safe, family-minded weekend with great local food and drink, accessible viewing areas, space for dogs, clean, wellmanaged toilets and all the organisation and care you’ ve come to trust f rom the Heartland team.

If you’re ready to relive the soundtrack of your life, Replay is the perfect way to make summer memories in Perth.

If you’re ready to relive the soundtrack of your life, Replay is the perfect way to make summer memories in Perth.

If you’re ready to relive the soundtrack of your life, Replay is the perfect way to make summer memories in Perth.

Replay Festival brings an incredible weekend of live music to Perth, led by two iconic headliners.

Replay Festival brings an incredible weekend of live music to Perth, led by two iconic headliners.

Replay Festival brings an incredible weekend of live music to Perth, led by two iconic headliners.

On Saturday, Natalie Imbruglia takes centre stage with her unmistakable voice and global hits, followed by Blue headlining Sunday with their chart-topping anthems and harmonies.

On Saturday, Natalie Imbruglia takes centre stage with her unmistakable voice and global hits, followed by Blue headlining Sunday with their chart-topping anthems and harmonies.

On Saturday, Natalie Imbruglia takes centre stage with her unmistakable voice and global hits, followed by Blue headlining Sunday with their chart-topping anthems and harmonies.

Joining them across the weekend are pop favourites

Joining them across the weekend are pop favourites

B* Witched, legendary hit-makers 10cc, the unforgettable Bay City Rollers and the brilliant Al tered Images.

B* Witched, legendary hit-makers 10cc, the unforgettable Bay City Rollers and the brilliant Al tered Images.

Joining them across the weekend are pop favourites B* Witched, legendary hit-makers 10cc, the unforgettable Bay City Rollers and the brilliant Al tered Images.

th

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Ticket sales since the launch on 28 November 2025 have been strong. Don’t miss out and get your tickets today at the best price!

Ticket sales since the launch on 28 November 2025 have been strong. Don’t miss out and get your tickets today at the best pri

Ticket sales since the launch on 28 November 2025 have been strong. Don’t miss out and get your tickets today at the best price! th

BLUE

Innerpeffray Library

The Library of Innerpeffray reopens for tours on Sunday, 1 March. During January and February, the grounds and heritage trail at Innerpeffray are open; come for a walk in our peaceful surroundings and marvel at the show of snowdrops in the library gardens.

A favourite place with dog-walkers and peace-seekers alike, Innerpeffray lies in a quiet spot on the banks of the Earn - lovely at all times of year, it is particularly spectacular in late January through February when hundreds of delicate snowdrops create a white carpet across the woodland floor. See if you are lucky enough to spot one of our resident red squirrels or the flocks of fieldfares overwintering in the trees.

Although the library is closed in January, you can still visit us ‘virtually’ via our website. Via our ‘What’s On’ page you’ll find a link to several entertaining e-tours exploring different aspects of our collectionseverything from gardening to golf! And as no visit would be complete without a sou-

venir; why not browse our online shop and treat yourself to a unique Innerpeffray gift or two?

Our Keeper of Books, Lara Haggerty, will be busy over the winter season giving a series of talks about the Library to community groups and gatherings across the local area. If you would be interested in inviting her to speak for your group, do get in touch using the contact details below.

Meanwhile, behind the scenes at the Library we’ll be busy preparing our new exhibition for 2026 - we look forward to welcoming you to explore it in the spring!

Dates for your diary

Madertie Month - 1 to 31 March. Tours of the library are free all month long when the library reopens in March, in honour of our founder David Drummond, 3rd Lord Madertie, who created Scotland’s first free lending library in 1680.

Programme of events - Our programme of events for the 2026 season is in the planning stages with some exciting new projects on the horizon, so do keep an eye out for

our ‘dates for the diary’ in future editions of The Quair, or you can check our ‘What’s On’ page on our website at any time. From talks to workshops and plays to concerts, there will be something to please everyone. Call for Volunteers - Our friendly volunteer team is crucial to the running of the Library of Innerpeffray. Although the library is closed to the public over the winter months, this can be an excellent time to start volunteering, as we have a programme of cleaning and checking the books, which is an ideal way to get to know both the collection and the other volunteers! Whether you would like to be a visitor guide, join the gardening team, do behind-the-scenes admin or help out with our programme of events, we’d love to hear from you. Email info@innerpeffraylibrary.co.uk or call the number below.

From March onwards, the library’s regular opening hours will be Wednesday to Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday, 2 pm to 5 pm.

Contact us on 01764 652819 or visit www. innerpeffraylibrary.co.uk for more details.

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Further notes on David Jack and the origins of Monterey Jack

In continuation of the December edition’s feature, the following notes offer more background on David Jack of Crieff (18221909).

Jack owned several dairies situated on the banks of the Salinas River, Monterey County, California. They were operated on his behalf by Portuguese dairymen.

They encountered a problem with excess milk which they solved by using the milk to make cheese.

The cheese was produced in accordance with an old recipe believed to have been introduced into the area by Spanish settlers and known locally as ‘Queso del Pais’ (Spanish for country cheese).

Jack sent his cheese to market in San Francisco in crates stamped ‘Jack’s Cheese, Monterey’. The cheese, described as similar to a mild cheddar, became very popular on the west coast and remains so to this day. It is often found in restaurant menus on both sides of the pond-especially in regard to pizzas, and hamburgers. It came to be known as ‘Monterey Jack’. There are competing theories regarding the origin of the cheese name, but the foregoing is widely accepted.

A number of cheese makers throughout the world produce cheeses branded as ‘Monterey Jack.’

Cllr Noah Khogali

Strathearn Ward - Conservative

As we say goodbye to another year and welcome 2026, I wanted to take a moment to look back at what has been a wonderful Christmas period locally.

I must start by saying a massive thank you to everyone involved in organising the Crieff Christmas celebrations. The effort that goes into these events is often unseen, but the result is always a wonderful display of community spirit that gives the town a real boost just when it is needed and the cold December nights are properly setting in.

It is also wonderful that Crieff can boast Scotland’s only Santa Post Office. It’s a super selling point for the town, and hopefully drew more attention to the cinema-to-be too! Another thing to look forward to.

Events like these don’t just happen; they are the result of hard work by dedicated volunteers and local businesses pulling together. That strength of community is something we should be incredibly proud of as we head into the new year.

Wishing you all a very Happy Hogmanay and a peaceful, prosperous New Year. As always, if there’s something you’d like to raise or discuss, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can contact me on - Telephone 01738 475000, email NKhogali@pkc.gov.uk or at Perth & Kinross Council, 2 High St, Perth PH1 5PH

Strathearn

Music Society - Our concerts in 2025 concluded, as promised, with the welcome return of the talented Resol String Quartet comprising Ellette Harris (1st violin), Annabel Kidd (2nd violin), Raphael Chinn (viola) and Chloe Randall (cello). Following on from their last visit to Crieff in February 2024, this time they enthralled their large audience with works by Beethoven, Haydyn and Mendelssohn and richly deserved the warm applause which greeted each item.

Our 60th season of delivering the very best of chamber music to Strathearn will continue into 2026 with four more wonderful concerts between now and June. The first will be on Wednesday, 21 January when the talented young musicians in the Chloé Piano Trio, namely Maria Gilicel on violin and Jobine Siekman on cello, accompanied by George Todica on piano, will bring us a selection of delightfully appropriate works by Amy Beach, Reena Esmail, Joseph Haydn and Maurice Ravel.

We are very grateful to our President, Frances Farr, and the Tunnell Trust who are jointly sponsoring this concert which, as usual, will be held at Crieff Parish Church on the corner of Ferntower Road and Strathearn Terrace. Tickets cost £15 (Students £5) and can be obtained at the door or via Eventbrite. As always, children under 18 will be admitted free. Doors open at 7 pm with the concert getting under way from 7.30 pm.

Next month will bring the Scottish-based Thistle Trio to the same venue in Crieff on Wednesday, 18 February. More about this in the next edition of The Crieff and Comrie Quair.

If you are looking 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 and X (Twitter) @concertscrieff.

CELEBRATING

of creating beautiful homes in Perthshire

PENTHOUSE AT OLD HILL SCHOOL PROJECT, BLAIRGOWRIE

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO CREATE SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL PLEASE GET IN TOUCH WE WOULD LOVE TO HELP

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