October 2011 by DG Link

The

y r t r a w St e free to all residents

LINK

October 2011 Issue No. 7

RRP ÂŁ1.00 Distributed to the entire Stewartry community, every household and business. Now over 13,000 addresses!

Supporting the local community by linking Social and Business Networking Win tickets to DG Oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Panto (p24) and Drambusters Whisky Festival (p31) Donate to Castle Douglas Christmas Lights Fund for a chance to win an exclusive dinner party cooked by local MasterChef Tony Budde.

Features: Loch Arthur Creamery, RSPB Mersehead, Dalbeattie Matters, Castle Douglas Food Town (Day of the Region) And a Ghostly trail for Halloween

www.dgone.co.uk

Business Index: Art Gallery The Scottish Showcase Gallery…

Find the local supplier you need quickly in this handy guide... Kitchen Installation Howdens Joinery ………………….

Logs, Hardwood RM Hardwood Logs………………. GCTW ………………………………

29 21

Builder William Waugh ….………………..

Natural Health The Massage Room ……………. Jan Gray Aromatherapy ………..

15 15

Cafes The Mad Hatter…………………… Carricks of Carsephairn…………. The Willow Tree ………………….

19 11 24

Photography Greenleaf Photographic Studios..

Professional Printing FP Commercial Printing…….……

Restaurants Balcary Bay Hotel ……………….. Cross Keys .……………….……… The Royal Hotel….……..………… The Selkirk Arms Hotel …………. Urr Valley………………………….

25 21 21 23 7

Sporting Goods / Toys M. McCowan & Son.……..……..…

Timber Treatment / Damp Proofing Kaapstone …………………………

Travel ABC Travel ………………………..

Tyres Stewartry Tyres ……………………

Visitors Centre Gem Rock Museum …….…………

Wedding Cars & Limos Excalibur Wedding Cars ………….

Wind Turbines Glenquicken…………………………

Wrought Iron, Decorative Ranchers…………………………..

Bathrooms, Designer Rab Corder Bathrooms………….. Splash Bathrooms .………………

Car Sales Graham Motors …………………..

Cleaning House Proud Domestic Cleaning..

Community Classifieds CD Food Town ………………….. RSPB Mersehead ….…………… Dalbeattie Matters…………….. Day of the Region…….….………

10 12 16 21

Electrician Galloway Electrical Services……..

Fine Food & Drink Colvend Shop……………………… Flavours of Galloway …………….. Grierson Butchers ……….……….. Kilnford Barn………………………. Loch Arthur Creamery…………… Mitchells Green Grocers ………… Sunrise Wholefoods ……………… TB Watson ………….……………..

23 23 19 15 23 19 15 7,31

Gift Shop The Ark.…………….……………… Heating Engineer Lewis Oil Heating………………….

IT Services Hessk Web Design ……………….

Joinery JDR Goodman ……………………. Ian Hall Joinery …………………… Andrew Campbell & Sons ……….

21 3 11

Deadlines for inclusion is the first of every month prior to the month of publication… eg an insertion required in the September issue would need to reach us by the 1st of August. This applies to all categories including SIGs, events, classifieds, etc

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Dear All

Editor’s Note:

Kbt &West Sales: Lisa Maxwell 07764 569165 CD & Central Sales: Gemma Green 07739 963989 Dbt & East Sales: Jo Seawright 07875 209927

This month we can announce the winners of the Dougie MacLean tickets; Mrs Sheila Little, DG7 and Mrs Heather Little, DG5 (no relation that I know of). The winners of the Cavens competition and Ali Bain & Phil Cunningham won’t have been drawn until after this has gone to print so we will announce them in November’s issue. This month we have 3 competitions, all pretty amazing. And I would like to take this opportunity to introduce 2 lovely ladies that will be lending a helping hand. We have Lisa Maxwell who will start to look after the Kirkcudbright area and the west for sales and Gemma Green is going to start looking after the Castle Douglas & Central area, while I will be looking after existing customers, Dalbeattie & Dumfries. So we have gone from a team of one, me, to a team of 3, and no we don’t have any council funding as some people thought. It’s just 3 girls trying to make a living while supporting the area they live in. Hope you enjoy October’s

Jo, The Ed

Iain Hall Joiner

All aspects of Joinery work undertaken

07896 676 866 Castle Douglas IainHall21@hotmail.co.uk

HESSK WEB DESIGN Bespoke & Affordable Websites from only £90 www.hessk.com Enquiries@hessk.com Stewartry Link takes no responsibility as to the accuracy of advert contents or submitted articles and is purely the opinion of the company or author

Main Features: Diary Dates…………….. 4 Restaurant Review……. 8 Community Focus CD Food Town……... Dalbeattie Matters….. Loch Arthur Creamery Mersehead.…………

10 16 13 12

Competitions A Dinner Party ……... 19 DG One Panto ….….. 21 Drambusters ..……… 31 Natural Health…………. 14 Monthly Recipe………… 18 Art & Culture………..….

Outdoors ………………. 22 Garden View……….…..

Puzzle Page……………. 28 Useful Phone Numbers.. 30 Front Cover: This month’s photo was supplied by DG One. Send in your pictures for the front cover to info@stewartrylink.com Entries can be anyone or anything, the only requirement is to have some connection to this area. (Wildlife, landscapes, people using local amenities, or just enjoying a day out) Advertise for as little as £39 No VAT - Call 07875 209927 All back Issues available online.

Join us online... www.stewartrylink.com www.facebook.com/stewartrylink www.twitter.com/stewartrylink @Stewartry Link Support local suppliers by being Sociable

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Dates for the Diary

For more detailed information, contact details and other events check out the web site calendar on www.stewartrylink.com/events.html

Send your event to events@stewartrylink.com Art Exhibitions / Craft Fairs 18/06-01/10 Not only painters – Kirkcudbright craft workers 1900-1975’ - The Stewartry Museum, St Mary's St, Kirkcudbright, DG6 4AQ 17/09-05/11 "The Swallow & The Hare" Paul Young & Lizzie Farey - Designs Gallery, King st, Castle Douglas 01-30/10 ‘James Faed Senior (1821-1911)’ an anniversary exhibition - Tolbooth Art Centre, Kirkcudbright 01-31/10 Jane Exley: Rugs - The Mill on the Fleet, Gatehouse of Fleet, DG7 2HS 01-31/10 James Faed - The Mill on the Fleet, Gatehouse of Fleet, DG7 2HS 03-15/10 Galloway Craft Guild Exhibition - Harbour Gallery Kirkcudbright 05-15/10 Sprit of Galloway - Susan Metcalf - Castle Douglas Art Gallery 08/10-03/12 The Life and Times of David Currie of Newlaw - The Stewartry Museum, Kirkcudbright 19-29/10 ‘philippasinclair2011’ - Castle Douglas Art Gallery Children’s Shows & Activities 21-28/09 Castles SWSDFA Young Art Competition - The CatStrand 01/10 Junior Dalbeattie Hardrock Challenge - Dalbeattie 10-21/10 School Holidays 26/11 Singing Kettle – Christmas Fancy Dress Party - DG One Leisure Complex, Hoods Loaning, Dumfries, DG1 2HT 16-31/12 Beauty and the Beast Pantomime - DG One Leisure Complex, Hoods Loaning, Dumfries, DG1 2HT 3-/11-02/12 School Holidays Festivals, Shows and Civic Events 23/09 Wigtown Book Festival - Wigtown (various venues) 01-02/10 Day of the region - Castle Douglas 26/11 Drambusters Whiskey Festival - Cairndale Hotel

Evening Entertainment 29/09 Phil Cunningham & Aly Bain 25th Anniversary Tour - Kirkcudbright Parish Church, Kirkcudbright 30/09 Glenkens 73 Club & CatStrand Youth Players - The CatStrand 30/09 Straight No Chasers - DG One Leisure Complex, Hoods Loaning, Dumfries, DG1 2HT 01/10 Race Night - Rhonehouse Village Hall 02/10 Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band - DG One Leisure Complex, Hoods Loaning, Dumfries, DG1 2HT 07-08/10 "Inspector Drake and the Black Widow" - Crossmichael Drama Club 70th Annivarsary Lochside Theatre, Castle Douglas 14/10 A Night of Musicals - Lochside Theatre, Castle Douglas 15/10 American Style Wrestling - DG One Leisure Complex, Hoods Loaning, Dumfries, DG1 2HT cont. Please mention TheStewartryLINK when answering an advert

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Office: 01387 256451 Email: sam.lewis1@btconnect.com

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22/10 Scottish Fiddle Orchestra - DG One Leisure Complex, Hoods Loaning, Dumfries, DG1 2HT 28/10 Queen Rocks Gospel - DG One Leisure Complex, Hoods Loaning, Dumfries, DG1 2HT 29/10 Mostly Ghostly Haunted Theatre Tour - Royal Theatre, Dumfries 29-30/10 Over The Rainbow - The Eva Cassidy Story - DG One Leisure Complex, Hoods Loaning, Dumfries, DG1 2HT 29-30/10 Emily Smith in Concert - Lochside Theatre, Castle Douglas 06/11 Moscow Ballet La Classique - Nutcracker - DG One Leisure Complex, Hoods Loaning, Dumfries, DG1 2HT 13/11 The Stylistics - DG One Leisure Complex, Hoods Loaning, Dumfries, DG1 2HT Outdoor 02/10 Dalbeattie Hardrock Challenge – Dalbeattie 11/10 Hedgerow Safari - Cream o' Galloway, Gatehouse, DG7 2DR 17/10 Goosey Gander - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH 18/10 Hedgerow Safari - Cream o' Galloway, Gatehouse, DG7 2DR 18-30 /10 Goosey Gander - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH 25/10 Hedgerow Safari - Cream o' Galloway, Gatehouse, DG7 2DR 26/10 RSPB Bird Event - Cream o' Galloway, Gatehouse, DG7 2DR 27/10 Bug Hotels - Cream o' Galloway, Gatehouse, DG7 2DR 05/11 Feathery Fireworks - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH Other 01-09/10 Ringford Hall 150th Anniversary Exhibition - Ringford Hall 03/10 Castle Douglas Flower Club - Demonstrator Maureen Phimister - Gordon Hall, Castle Douglas 05/10 “DALLY AT THE CALLY” In aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care Nurses - Cally Palace, Gatehouse of Fleet 12/10 Scottish Bird Club - Bhutan, the unexplored east: monasteries and birds - Cumberland St. Day Centre, Dumfries 15/10 Loch Arthur Coffee Morning plus Loch Arthur produce stall - Parish Church Hall, Kirkcudbright 24/10 Diabetes Fundraising - Gordon Memorial Hall, Castle Douglas 29/10 Fairtrade Coffee Morning - Parish Church Hall, Kirkcudbright Sponsored SIGs Mon, weekly Poker Night, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway, DG7 3RN Wed, weekly Pub Quiz, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway, DG7 3RN

‘Dates for the Diary’ inclusion info… All events where ever possible will be listed In the Diary pages of the magazine for free. Email your event to events@stewartrylink.com stating the event, location, dates and a short description. Deadlines for inclusion is the first of every month prior to the month of publication… so for example an event in July would need to reach us by the 1st of June for inclusion in the magazine and you can never be too early to send in the event. If it is in the calendar the magazine will be see it for inclusion 6

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ABC Travel Blackpool 8th October Adults £22, Child £12

Metro Centre www.drambusters.com

12th November Adults £20, Child £10

We Will Rock You 10th December Adults £50, Child £40 Pick up points & times: Kirkcudbright Post Office 8:15am Castle Douglas Market Hill 8:30am Dalbeattie Maxwell St Bus Stop 8:50am, Dumfries Coach & Horses 9:15am Info@tbwatson.co.uk

Urr Valley

The

Hotel

Naturally inspiring visit place to

Under New Management

New Lunch and Dinner Menu Set in 14 acres of mature woodland and gardens, we are perfectly situated for a spot of lunch, that special evening meal or the biggest day of anyone's life, your wedding. Sample one of our inspired menus newly created by the Head Chef while enjoying stunning views.

01556 502188 Ernespie Road, Castle Douglas, DG7 3JG www.urrvalleyhotel.com

info@urrvalleyhotel.com

DISPLAYS WORKSHOP PROFESSOR'S STUDY THE AMAZING CRYSTAL CAVE AUDIO VISUAL DISPLAY FANTASTIC CAFÉ UNIQUE GIFT SHOP We have fantastic displays of gems, crystals, minerals and fossils, a collection of unique and breathtaking creations from all over the world. And our café is renowned for fantastic food, home baking, quality coffees and teas. The Gem Rock Museum, Chain Road, Creetown DG8 7HJ Tel: 01671 820357 www.gemrock.net Email: enquiries@gemrock.net

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Restaurant Review The Old Smugglers Inn This place was a chance find. We were out that way and decided we wanted to stop for a quick lunch and thought we would try the first half decent place we came across. So we stopped at The Old Smugglers Inn expecting your usual pub. On approaching we could here a few people already in there… always a good sign. We opened the door to the Lounge entrance and was pleasantly surprised. The whole place was light and airy filled with quite a few diners already. We immediately took a liking to the place just on the décor. We took a table and looked through the menu, which was a fairly simple affair, consisting of the good ol’ favourites of soups, rolls, paninis etc., not overly extensive. But the prices were more than reasonable. My husband chose a baguette with a warm chicken filling and an orange juice & lemonade and I chose coronation chicken sandwich on brown bread with a coffee. The service was notably friendly. As we waited for the food we looked around a bit and noticed there was one or two things which was still to be finished off, such as the wires for lights over the pictures were either waiting to be connected or removed. But there were only minor details and did not overly detract from the whole room. It was genuinely a refreshing change to the normal pub décor. The food arrived, portions were a decent size with a decent side salad and tortilla chips, it was fresh, simple, filling food. We both had a coffee to finish, which seemed to include a free refill for me, not sure if that was an oversight. I then spoke to Derek who turns out to be one half of the partnership who runs the place where I then introduced myself and he asked if I had seen the bar as it had an unusual feature. So I walked through to the bar to see a boat. The bar was a boat. It looked great. There was a pool table there, an open fire, and a boat - perfect for a pint at night. It would appear a place of two distinct halves. One side is a definite cosy pub, the other is a light and airy dining lounge and as a bonus for those sunny afternoons I found a lovely beer garden by a stream. (Ok that is unlikely this time of year or even summer for that matter but I live in hope)

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The food itself is not fancy, the menu is not extensive, but it was perfect for a quick lunch. And I loved the ‘boat’ bar not to mention the price. Where possible we will include a short access report from the DGAP, who have very kindly offered to volunteer their services when they can. Therefore a report every month can not be guarantee - Thanks for your understanding The car park adjacent to the Inn is on a slope with an uneven surface. Advise parking as near to the road as possible. Entry to the premises is via a reasonable width door which can be restrained, and through a double door which cannot, into the main bar and dining area. There is a fair amount of space within the principal bar and good spacing of dining tables. Floor coverings are easily negotiable and lighting is good. Menus are in good size print and there are plans to produce large print versions. Toilet facilities are through a passageway only 74cm wide. Access to the toilet area is unsuitable for manual wheelchair users and impossible for power chairs.

Sampled from the Menu: Warm Chicken Baguette Coronation Chicken Sandwhich Served with side salad and tortillas ~~O~~ 3 cups of coffee and a fresh orange juice and lemonade ~~O~~ £11.90

The Old Smugglers Inn, 11-13 Main St , Auchencairn, DG7 1QU - 01556 640331

Rating 4 out of 5 Might not be fine dining or a special menu but good plain food; fresh, decent portions. Difficult to beat on price or find fault as a result. Based on value for money and it would get 5 out of 5, for the food alone 3 out of 5 as very plain fair… but no complaints. We would happily return.

Do you have an establishment you would like featured? Or have a favourite place you would like to recommend (perhaps along with your recommended dish or speciality)? Contact Jo, 07875 209927 or info@stewartrylink.com with the details. Every effort is taken to be fair and honest. Please mention TheStewartryLINK when answering an advert

Castle Douglas Food Town & Civic Week Initiatives are pleased to invite you to the town’s

Day of the Region Event on Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd October. This event is for the people and organised by the people of the town in order for locals and visitors alike to come and see and also take part in the many activities, interest & hobby organisations in Castle Douglas that are available for people to join. The event will be open from 10:00am to 4:00pm at a number of locations in the town. These locations include Market Hill where there will be Marquees and displays at the British Legion. These include exhibition displays as well as performance and “have a go” opportunities. The Marquee on Lochside Park will be a focus on Foody items such as cooking displays and demonstrations including a local chef’s challenge (similar to Ready Steady Chef). Food stalls for local charities and volunteer groups. Also at Lochside park there will be other events involving the Sealed Knot Society with an historic encampment and re-enactment (demo of food preparation) from days of gone by. An Archery demo and “have a go” sessions as well as Fly Fishing demonstration will be available. The Community Centre will have many interest groups exhibiting their particular hobby and work done over the last year and will also include “have a go” sessions of art, woodturning, dance and many other past times which you could be interested to join. Both the Junior School and High School will also have open doors during the event . Plans are also being made for a Musical event at the Town Hall on the Saturday evening which will include local bands. Tickets will be on sale in the town. Businesses in the town will have special open days on the Saturday and those include Irving Homestyle Bakery, Sulwath Brewery, A.D. Livingston & Sons Furniture workshop and Urr Valley Ice Cream. There will also be a special open day at the Galloway Activity Centre on Lock Ken just off the A613 road to New Galloway. Threave House & Gardens will also be part of the weekend event. Overall there will be over 60 interest groups involved over the 2 day event so come along and find out much more about Castle Douglas and what goes on in this very active Market Town of ours. We are sure you will find something to interest you over the weekend. A Double Decker bus will be touring the town taking you to various event locations. See www.dayoftheregion.co.uk for more info (click on Castle Douglas Event)

Contributed by David Devereux, Curator, Stewartry Museum, St Mary St, Kirkcudbright, www.dumgal.gov.uk/museums

Time Out

St Mary St, Kirkcudbright 10

This month’s historic photograph from The Stewartry Museum collection was taken in St. Mary Street, Kirkcudbright. It is believed to date to around 1925 and is focussed on the grocer’s van of A D Brown, registration number SW 621. It is parked outside Brown’s shop which today is occupied by ‘The Dog House’ pet shop. The van served as a mobile shop for the communities and farms surrounding the town. The larger grocers in Castle Douglas and Dalbeattie provided a similar rural service. Deliveries around the town were provided by boys on delivery bikes. Three bikes can also be seen in the photograph, all with large baskets on the front. On closer inspection the bike nameplates show that one belonged to the grocery business of Charles Finlayson in Castle Street and another to Rogerson and Black in St. Cuthbert Street, (now the Co-op).

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Carricks of Carsphairn Come and discover the secret in Carsphairn

Stag Tea Room & Garden

House Proud Domestic Cleaning A Cleaning Service to suit you No Job too small!!!

Open all year round with wonderful views Our menu has something for everyone Home made Pies, Scones & Soups Mon-Fri 7:00 - 6:00 Saturday 8:00 - 6:00 Sunday 9:00 - 5:00

Call Hannah for further details

houseproud37@btinternet.com

01556 610 523

07825 639 359

andrew campbell & sons JOINERS AND BUILDING CONTRACTORS

Take out available. Ring your order ready for collection

01557 331 861

01644 460211 Bikers Welcome Convenience store for daily essentials Post Office open Mon - Sat, 11:00 - 1:00

Scottish Showcase Gallery

Main St, Carsphairn, DG7 3TQ

mail@andrewcampbellandsons.com www.andrewcampbellandsons.com

1 Police Close High St Kirkcudbright DG6 4DL

Having been established for 200 years as a family firm, we have built up an excellent reputation over our time in business and have a wide range of satisfied clients. See the website for our portfolio of some of our recent work.

Showcasing the very best of Scottish art and crafts from all over Scotland

Photographic www.greenleafphotographicstudios.com

Over 600 original works by established and new artists, limited edition prints, picture framing, art materials & cards. Riverside Mills, Beaconsfield Place, Kirkcudbright, Dumfries & Galloway, DG6 4DP Tel: 01557 339400 (24 hrs.) Open 7 days 10am-5pm Sun 12noon-4pm

01556 504 412 selinagreenleaf@yahoo.com

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Weddings 11

Come for a Gander at the Geese at RSPB Mersehead

Have you ever experienced the sight of thousands of barnacle geese as they take off, or watched how they interact with each other as they feed on grasslands? If you’ve never had a close encounter with these fabulous birds then come along to RSPB Mersehead this autumn to experience what must be one of Dumfries and Galloway’s most amazing winter wildlife spectacles. Our land management of the reserve at this time of year is all geared towards creating ideal feeding grounds for the geese. The Svalbard barnacle geese make their extraordinary journey every year and arrive on the Solway at the end of September. They spend their winter feeding on the rich grasslands at Mersehead reserve until the middle of April when they head back to the Arctic to breed. Visiting the reserve any time in the autumn or winter will reward you with the opportunity to see these amazing iconic birds. To celebrate the return of the barnacle geese RSPB Scotland are holding a number of special events throughout October.

Between Saturday 15th and Sunday 30th October come along on one of our Goosey Gander guided walks at Mersehead, they run daily 11am-12pm and give you chance to find out all about the barnacle geese and their courageous journey from the Arctic to South West Scotland. Also between these dates the Sulwath Centre at Mersehead is pleased to host a Wildlife Art Exhibition. The region’s top wildlife artists, including John Threlfall, join forces to show and sell their paintings, prints and cards in an exhibition to raise funds for RSPB conservation projects in Dumfries and Galloway through the Galloway Local Group. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, admission free. On Saturday 15th October we will also be launching the Mersehead, special edition flying barnacle goose pin badge, only available from the reserve. The day will also see the launch of “Wild Autumn” a collection of exciting wildlife events running at venues throughout Dumfries and Galloway with a fun family events day at Mersehead reserve. Get along to as many of these events as you can, collect your stamps from the various venues and you’ll have the opportunity to win an exciting prize. Check facebook.com and look for the Wild Autumn in Dumfries and Galloway page for details. Wild Autumn hopes to launch its own website soon. Once you’ve ventured out into the cold to see the geese why not use the attached voucher to enjoy a warm cuppa in the Visitor Centre at Mersehead.

Free Hot Drink Claim A Free Hot Drink Present this coupon to RSPB Mersehead Terms & conditions: Free hot drink offer only available at the RSPB Mersehead reserve. Please hand in this coupon to redeem. One coupon is equal to one hot drink. Offer subject to availability and ends on Monday 31st October 2011. Some products may be excluded. Coupons must be originals. No photocopies will be accepted.

12 Please mention TheStewartryLINK when answering an advert

RSPB Mersehead can be found on the A 710 Solway Coast road between Southerness and Sandyhills. Open daily, free admission to the reserve and events at Mersehead. Donations to RSPB welcome. For further information about the reserve or events phone 01387 780579 or email mersehead@rspb.org.uk The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds is a registered charity: England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland SC037654

Organic growth probably sums it up! Based on firm principles of community living, social integration, organic agriculture and a strong work ethic, we at here on our farm, plus a great range Loch Arthur have, over the past 27 years, grown of selected fine foods, organic healthcare products and crafts. steadily and organically. For many local people, Loch Arthur is a name Our Creamery produces four types of synonymous with organic agriculture and artisan food hard and soft cheese as well as production but those who know us better, know that natural yoghurt, cream cheeses, this ‘ Social Enterprise’ is rooted in an intentional farmhouse butter, milk and cream. Community supporting the lives of a variety of You’ll know why we have won so many awards when you taste our cheeses different people in a variety of different ways. which have been made from the raw At our start in 1985, as part of the Camphill Village milk of our own, and other local, Trust, organic agriculture was a key element in the organic farms. working life of our Community. This soon diversified into a variety of workshops and enterprises all Alongside all of this growth and providing meaningful work for many people who might development, it has also been otherwise have been very limited in their wonderful to experience the change possibilities for employment. At the same time, we of public awareness and the became forerunners in Dumfries and Galloway in the subsequent growth of consumer demand for foods produced regionally production and supply of local and organic foods. by artisan producers. Today, you’ll find our Creamery and Farm Shop on a busy working farm, where we have been producing And now, after many years of planning, we have begun work on our award winning cheeses for over 25 years. exciting New Farm-Shop project. As a forward-looking ‘Social Enterprise’ this is an This will be a hub of local and organic exciting venture offering quality, artisan food foods and social interaction, products whilst providing meaningful work incorporating our farm shop, bakery, opportunities for adults with learning disabilities, craft & gallery space and our much volunteers from around the world and a devoted local awaited cafe where we will serve our workforce. delicious food in a truly beautiful Arriving at our shop you’ll be greeted by a striking setting. display of fresh, organic fruit and vegetables. We are grateful for the remarkable Seasonally, we are able to supplement this with our support that has come towards us to own ‘bio-dynamically’ grown produce from our be able to go forward with this greenhouses and gardens. project and hope that it will be Then, entering the shop, you’ll be struck by the aromas wafting out from our small farm-shop kitchen. Sweet and savoury pies, cakes, biscuits and chutneys are produced daily. This alongside a range of artisan breads from our own bakery, fresh beef, lamb, pork and bacon from organic animals reared

another valuable addition to the growth of local and organic food within Dumfries and Galloway. If you’re serious about good food produced with care and conscience in a very special setting do stop by !

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Autumnal Health Making the most of October October is a month of change. We prepare for the winter at the same time as appreciating all this month has to offer. The startling range of colours from yellows, oranges and reds, beckon us, replacing any sunshine we may be missing. They encourage long, healthy walks in the woods, or maybe blackberry picking or tidying the garden. Even on cloudy days natural light stimulates glands that control the release of hormones, linked to our moods and emotions. So even if you feel low or tired, wrap up well and go outside, whatever the weather. The exercise and fresh air are guaranteed to cheer you up and you’ll be boosting vital Vitamin D levels too. The clocks go back at the end of the month unfortunately. Actually I’m hoping they won’t! Sign up for the “Lighter Later” campaign, set up by 10:10, a pressure group pushing for carbon reduction and backed by RoSPA, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents. Assuming they do go back, go to bed earlier and rise with the sun rather than sticking to your usual bedtime hours. Early morning exercise, anyone? Surely that’s better than a walk in the dark! Prepare the house for winter. Check for draughts and hidden dust and moulds, another cause of respiratory problems and easily removed using tea tree oil. Even though it may be cold outside, open the windows for ten minutes each day to air the house. Plants such as palms, ivy, peace lily, African violets and spider plants will help improve the atmosphere. I recommend B.C. Wolverton’s book. “How to Grow Fresh Air”. Try a gentle detox to help strengthen the immune system and then nurture yourself with baths instead of showers, candles to brighten dull rooms, extra cushions on the sofa and by adding warming spices to meals and hot drinks. Finally, the best thing about autumn is the harvest of bright berries, local apples and pears and the huge range of fresh root vegetables, from humble turnips to the enormous pumpkins awaiting Halloween. Now is the perfect time to stock up on healthy carotenoids, the antioxidants found in orange fruit and vegetables. Try making roasted vegetable soup, using a varying mixture of carrots, sweet potatoes, parsnips, butternut squash, turnips and swede. Toss vegetable chunks in olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt and roast for about half an hour in a medium oven, then blend with chicken or veg stock. Make a large amount, freeze portions and defrost in the morning, ready for the evening. Add different warming spices and herbs for variety. Thick soups like these are really filling and also slimming. You’ll find numerous pumpkin recipes and healthy fun snacks to help celebrate Halloween on the internet and don’t forget the nutrient-rich pumpkin seeds, delicious and chewy, whether eaten raw, sprouted or roasted. Sue Blain Naturopath The Natural Therapy Q&A section has been temporarily suspended. Please continue to send your queries to health@stewartrylink.com

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Member of

SUNRISE WHOLEFOODS Supplying good food in Castle Douglas since 1991

20th Anniversary Dalbeattie — Tel: 01556 612425

a huge range of speciality ingredients for the adventurous cook · herbs & spices · nuts & seeds · vegetarian & gluten free foods · homebrew equipment ·local cheeses and meats

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01557 820144 - 07771 546731 themassageroom@btinternet.com

"Kilnf ord Meat, It's the Best I've ever tasted”

Kilnford Beef Producing good beef involves slow and careful rearing, every little detail deemed important to achieve a top class product. Our Galloway beef excels in taste because they grow slowly. By grazing on rough pasture and only receiving a limited amount of concentrated cereal feed as they reach maturity to encourage marbling in the meat and produces a product that has a flavour all of its own. Native Galloways are smaller at maturity meaning the fibre strands are often finer and by hanging the meat for 3-4 weeks the result is very tender. With good marbling and maturation all that is left to do is cook it well and our butchers and chefs are always happy to offer advice on the cooking of any particular cut.

Kilnford Pork At Kilnford we are proud that our pig herd has been awarded the highest welfare standard, RSPCA Freedom Foods Award. Our breeding herd of sows are crossbred with Duroc pigs, which have been selected because of an increased fat cover and good mothering ability, so that they are suited to rearing the piglets outdoors. This extra fat throughout the tissue, as well as extra iron from the soil produces pork that is full of flavour and also has that tasty marbling throughout the joint. Our butchers are skilled at curing our own ham and bacon on site at Kilnford and, with no added water, lots of customers are loving it.

Kilnford Lamb Our Blackface ewes are grazed on our hill along with our Galloways. They graze through pasture and mature slowly to produce meat that is sweet and full flavour with marbling throughout the joint. To achieve a really tender joint we mature it for 7-10 days. Now you know more about Kilnford Meat why not come along to our Farm Kitchen Cafe to sample what we believe will be

"the Best you've ever tasted” Mon-Sat 9:30am-5:30, Sun 10:00-4:30pm, late night Thursday till 8:30pm

Just off the A75 at the Garroch roundabout

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Dalbeattie Matters Dalbeattie Community Initiative

Dalbeattie Walking Festival 2011 Dalbeattie’s fourth annual walking festival which took place from 18th – 21st August attracted record numbers of participants as the event goes from strength to strength. The walks, evening talks and family activities attracted well over 400 people this year, many of them visitors on holiday in the area, including some who came specifically for the 4 day walking festival.

Suie Hill

Balcary Heugh Auchencairn

Beach Art Rockcliffe

Graham Platt, development manager with the Initiative said “I was absolutely delighted with the number of people attending this years festival – I thought last year was good but that has been surpassed this year. Fortunately, unlike previous years, the weather stayed dry for all of the daytime activities which helped to boost the numbers but it was great to see so many people on the beach at Rockcliffe in glorious sunshine on the Sunday for the beach art and rockpooling activities”. Highlights this year included a walk across the sands to Rough Island, a walk through Edingham Munitions Factory and along the former railway line to Southwick Station, a Bat Walk at Threave Gardens, a tour of the Almorness Peninsula near Palnackie and a walk to Edingham Loch and Castle. Evening activities included an enthralling illustrated talk from local Historian Stuart McCulloch on the lives of ‘local boys’ John and Edward Balliol, a Genealology Workshop and a Slideshow of Old Dalbeattie, whilst Alistair Penman at the Newbarns Archaeological Dig which also participates in the festival was delighted with over 60 new visitors to the site over the four day period.

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Almorness Point

White Port Bay

Beach Art Rockcliffe

Edingham Castle

Graham added “The feedback from participants and the groups and organisations who participated this year has been excellent. The event would not have been possible without the help and support of a lot of other organisations, individuals and volunteers and I would like to express my sincere thanks to all who helped to make this festival such an enjoyable and successful few days”. Date for your diary – 2012 Walking Festival will take place from Thursday 16th – Sunday 19th August.

Gavin’s Loch

Almorness Point

Dalbeattie Old Port On the quayside Please mention TheStewartryLINK when answering an advert

Hestan Island from Almorness Moyle 17

Recipe of the Month: Ingredients:

Gently Braised Shoulder of Lamb with Creamed Parsnip and Potato Champ

For the lamb 1 tbsp olive oil salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 x 2.2kg/5lb shoulder of lamb, 8 banana shallots, or 16 round shallots 1 bulb garlic, cloves separated 8 sprigs thyme, plus 1 tbsp chopped thyme leaves 250ml/9fl oz red wine 60g/2oz cold butter, cubed

For the Parsnip and champ mash 3 large king Edward potatoes, peeled and cubed pinch salt 300ml/10fl oz whole milk 60g/2oz unsalted butter 3 spring onions, trimmed, white part finely sliced, green part chopped 1 large free-range egg, yolk only 2 parsnips (peeled and cubed )

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4. 2. For the lamb, rub the oil into the shoulder of lamb and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place the shoulder of lamb into a baking tray, surround it with the shallots and roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes. 3. Remove the lamb from the oven, drain off any fat and add the garlic cloves and thyme sprigs to the pan. Reduce the heat to 120C/250F/Gas 1, cover the lamb with aluminium foil, and continue to cook for 4Â˝ hours. 4. Pour the red wine over the lamb and cook for a further hour. 5. For the parsnip & champ mash, bring a pan of salted water to the boil, add the potatoes and parsnips and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until tender, then drain well and mash. 6. While the potatoes and parsnips are cooking, heat the milk in a saucepan over a low to medium heat, add the butter and the green part of the spring onion and continue to simmer for 3-4 minutes. Sieve the mixture, reserve the liquid and discard the green part of the spring onion. 7. Beat the reserved milk mixture into the mashed potatoes, then stir in the egg yolk and the sliced white parts of the spring onions. Set aside on a warm, covered plate. 8. Remove the lamb shoulder from the oven and carefully transfer the lamb, garlic and shallots to a serving dish. Do not allow the meat to fall off the bone. 9. For the sauce, spoon off any excess fat, then pour the cooking juices from the baking tray into a frying pan and heat them over a medium heat until the volume of liquid has reduced by one third. Add the cold butter and whisk until the sauce is glossy. Stir in the chopped thyme. To serve, spoon a portion of the champ mash onto each serving plate. Slice some of the lamb from the bone and place it next to the champ mash, then pour over the red wine sauce.

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Win a dinner party for 4 cooked in your house by our local Master Chef Tony Budde

The Winning Menu Canapés ****** Slow Poached Salmon with Fennel, Orange and Rocket Salad ******* Gently Braised Shoulder of Lamb with Creamed Parsnip and Potato Champ The Lamb is from Local family butcher Grierson of Castle Douglas and the fish, fruit and veg are from Mitchells Green Grocers, both in Castle Douglas

******* Redcurrant and Lemon Posset *******

Which vegetable is the parsnip closely related to? Courgette - Text ‘CDLights A’ to 82727 Cabbage - Text ‘CDLights B’ to 82727 Carrot - Text ‘CDLights C’ to 82727 Texts for the competition cost £2 plus your standard network rate. For full terms and conditions see www.stewartrylink.com/win.html. Available to UK handsets only. One winner will be selected randomly from all correct entries. All money received from this competiton will be donated to the CD Christmas Light fund. By entering this competition you agree to additional contact by either Tony Budde or The Stewartry Link for marketing purposes, you may unsubscribe at any time.

RSON BR E I

BUTCHERS

Suppliers of Quality Scottish Beef, Lamb and Pork

Mitchells

Green Grocers Suppliers of the Freshest Fruit, Vegetables and Fish Mitchells are pleased to support Tony Budde in his fundrasing for the Castle Douglas Christmas Lights

138 King St, Castle Douglas

tter a H d Ma Cafe & Restaurant The

Grierson Bros are pleased to support the CD Xmas Light Fund-raising. Phone us now to order your lamb joint and re-create Tony's menu

148 King St, Castle Douglas DG7 1LU

01556 502637 www.griersonbros.co.uk info@griersonbros.co.uk

Tony with one of his celebrity colleagues

We would also like to pay special thanks to Grierson Butchers and Mitchells Green Grocers for supporting this fund raising.

Normal price £24.95 per person, cooked for your dinner party in your house

Tony has very kindly offered an amazing prize to help raise a bit of money for the Castle Douglas Christmas Lights fund. For the chance to win the Chef for a night to cook up a dinner party for 4 people we are asking you to donate £2 by texting the answer to the question below.

great value food

King St, Castle Douglas - 4 shops down from the main car park on the left

Choose the Mad Hatter for our warm welcome and relaxed atmosphere

Children and dogs welcome Baby changing facilities Open Monday to Saturday

Tel: 01556 502712 Stay a while, or if you’re in a hurry we provide a take-away service too

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CatStrandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cultural Section As summer passes and we enter one of the most beautiful seasons with autumn colours taking hold within the countryside, October promises to be full of exciting activities and opportunities for visitors to our region. The CatStrand is at the forefront of the arrangements for Octoberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day of the Region events in the Glenkens, which is one of five communities holding celebrations of rural community life right here in Dumfries & Galloway in the first ever Day of the Region to be delivered in the UK! This amazing project allows everyone the opportunity to explore what is going on in your community, make new friends, try something new, find out some more and learn new skills! Day of the Region also encourages us to explore our region by offering a FREE TRANSPORT service around the 5 participating Day of the Region locations. Managed by Dumfries and Galloway LEADER Programme, the initiative aims to increase well-being across Dumfries & Galloway, to encourage all of us to get to know those in our community better and be more connected to what is going on right on our own doorstep! The concept for Day of the Region here in Dumfries and Galloway has been developed through consultation and visits with partners in The Netherlands and Germany who have been delivering successful 'Day of the Regions' celebrations for a number of years. The other participating communities in 2011 are: Castle Douglas, Creetown, Crocketford and Gatehouse of Fleet. Full details of all the events and free travel can be found at www.dayoftheregion.co.uk. October also sees the launch of the new CatStrand Events Guide for the November 2011 to February 2012 season. A full programme of live entertainment, film, activities and workshops is planned , so look out for the new guide which will be available at various outlets throughout D&G or online at www.catstrand.com. 20

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Ground Clearance and Tree Works

Firewood Best Ash Hardwood Logs for Stoves & Open Fires of any size. Free delivery to Dalbeattie and Dumfries area.

Contact Alex 07880 988508

JDR Goodman Joinery & Property Maintenace Dalbeattie 07857 601510 01556 612289

Established 1815 WILLIAM WAUGH & SONS (BUILDERS) LTD Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural Insurance Work also undertaken l New Builds l Drainage Alterations l External Works l Extensions l Renovations l Plastering l Rough Casting l Roofing l Scaffolding

For a free estimate contact:

01387 740216 / 740264

enquiries@williamwaugh.com Broadford, Auldgirth, Dumfries DG2 0RT

01644 420494

路 Excellent Restaurant specialising in fresh, local produce. 路 10 cosy en-suite rooms with all modern facilities. 路 A traditional Bar with a good selection of Real Ales, Malts and a welcoming log fire.

Poker Night every Monday, 7:15pm enquiries@thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk Quiz Night every www.thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk Wednesday, 8:30pm

High St, New Galloway, DG7 3RN enquiries@thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk www.crosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk Please mention TheStewartryLINK when answering an advert

Outdoors… This month we have a Night time Outdoors, perfect for Halloween

Mostly Ghostly

We are Mostly Ghostly Investigations, Dumfries and Galloway’s first paranormal team and creators of the Dumfries Ghost Walk. The team consists of founder member Kathleen Cronie along with Derek McCall, John Hill and Mary Wood. We officially launched on Halloween 2008 with an investigation at Scotland’s oldest working theatre, the Theatre Royal in Dumfries, a location which the group holds in high esteem. Since our official launch we have carried out numerous investigations throughout the region, including several in Galloway and the Stewartry; Sorbie Tower, The Garlieston Straight, The Old Galloway Gazette building in Newton Stewart and Greenlaw Mansion near Castle Douglas to name a few. We have also travelled out with the region to some well-known sites renowned for their paranormal activity including; Jedburgh Jail, Brougham Hall near Penrith and Pittenweem Clock Tower in Fife. It was our interest in the paranormal that brought about our first venture away from investigations. We held an event at the Theatre Royal to give members of the public an insight into some of the theories and practices carried out by ourselves and others during an investigation. Following on from the success of this, we decided to diversify and aim for something more ambitious – researching and developing the Dumfries Ghost Walk. We recently completed our first season aimed at the tourist trade and are delighted with the continued wealth of local support which has exceeded our expectations. As mentioned earlier the group feels a great affinity with the Theatre in Dumfries, so we were thrilled when the Guild agreed to host our new Haunted Theatre Tour within the walls of this historically important building. It is with great pleasure we announce our first tour which will take place on Saturday 29th October 2011. So what does the future hold for Mostly Ghostly? We will continue to develop the Ghost Walk, Theatre Tour, and of course our investigations, which as always, remain our first priority. Contact details 07751 722 008 www.mostlyghostly.org 22

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www.flavoursofgalloway.co.uk

Colvend Shop a great range.... locally

THE

Selkirk Arms HOTEL

H I G H S T R E E T • K I R KC U D B R I G H T

our famous

Christmas Party Nights

Groceries Fresh Vegetable Instore Bakery Off License Award Winning Local Meat Local Speciality Foods Seasonal Goods

Open

Mon-Sat

2011: December 9, 10, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23 4 course Festive Fayre Dinner, Quiz Treasure Hunt, Disco & games £29 per person All inclusive Bed, Breakfast and Party - £66pp

8am - 6pm

Festive Fayre

Sunday Apr - Sep 8am - 6pm Oct - Mar 8am - 2pm

available every day from Thursday 1st December 2 courses £14.95; 3 courses £18.95 available in the Bistro and Artistas. Large parties booking advisable.

Colvend Shop, Near Dalbeattie. DG5 4QD 01556 630 228

5 course gourmet lunch, 12 - 2pm £50 per person

Christmas Day

More information and Festive Menus on our website:

treatyourselfcolvend@gmail.com www.treatyourselfcolvend.webs.com

w w w.s elkirkarm s hote l.co.uk

Booking now on 01557 330402

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Conjure up the magic of Christmas with this Fabulous family pantomime.

This year the DG One Theatre brings you one of the world’s favourite fairytales! This magical tale tells the story of Beauty the beautiful daughter of the town inventor Professor Crackpot. She longs for romance and adventure but little does she realise they will come when she becomes the prisoner of a monstrous Beast in return for her father’s freedom, The Beast, really a Prince, must learn to love and be loved –only then will he regain his true form and live, yes you’ve guessed it happily ever after. Will our heroine find true love? Will good overcome evil? Will the housekeeper Dame ever find time to do any housework? All will be revealed in this spellbinding pantomime full of music, magic and mayhem, special effects, breathtaking sets, loads of laughs and lavish costumes. The perfect Christmas treat for all the family and one of the most sensational and magical pantomimes ever to be seen in Dumfries. Starring Nina from ‘Nina and the Neurons’ as Beauty and Leah Macrae – Julie from Gary: Tank Commader as Fairy Kindheart. Produced and Directed and Starring Michael Courtney Nominated the 2008 UK ‘Producer Of The Year’ as ‘Funny French Franc.

3 Family Tickets to be won for Stewartry Link Fans!!! DG One have very kindly offered readers 3 chances to win a family ticket to go and see the Panto. If you would like the chance to win pop on to Facebook and ‘attend’ the event. Full terms and conditions are in the description of the Facebook event. But you need to be able to attend, agree to any photos and ‘Like’ the Stewartry Link on Facebook - www.facebook.com/stewartrylink

By Special Invitation The Willow Tree P A L N A C K I E

Breakfasts, Morning Coffee, Light Lunches Fantastic Home made cakes and snacks served 7 days 10am - 4pm Evening Meals served Thurs - Sun 4pm - 8pm Fully licensed, Credit / Debit Cards Accepted

01556 600092 Glen Road, next to the village shop, Palnackie DG7 1PH

We are delighted to announce that our new shop is now open at 76 High St, Kirkcudbright, DG6 4JL. With a wonderful selection of gifts and decorations we look forward to welcoming you to our new shop.

The Ark, Kippford

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TheArk

Kippford Opening Times:

Mon - Sat: 10:00 - 5:30 Sunday: 12:00 - 5:00 01556 620201

Christmas Catalogue now available!

RABCORDER Affordable Prices ~ Quality Bathrooms The Bathroom Specialist 01556 505864

Join our Christmas Club now and order in advance 43 High St Dalbeattie 01556 610270

50 King Street Castle Douglas 01556 502009

www.mmccowanandson.co.uk

Unit 1 Station Yard, Oakwell Rd Castle Douglas, DG7 1LA www.rabcorder.co.uk

BALCARY BAY Country House Hotel

Auchencairn, Castle Douglas, DG7 1QZ - Tel: 01556 640217/640311 www.balcary-bay-hotel.co.uk - reservations@balcary-bay-hotel.co.uk Balcary Bay Country House Hotel takes its name from the beautiful bay on which it stands commanding a stunning location overlooking the Solway, within an area of Galloway that is romantic in its isolation, and which was once full of intrigue. Heston Isle, the hide-out of 17th Century smugglers, fronts the hotel' view across the Solway coast, while beyond rise the majestic peaks of the Cumbrian Lake District. Romantic, secluded, tranquil & welcoming. Open to residents and non-residents alike whether it be a casual lunch with the sound of the gentle lapping tide or a romantic dinner for two our award winning cuisine is guaranteed to delight the most discerning palate. Whatever the celebratory occasion you will find a menu to suit, making it a truly memorable experience.

Morning Coffee: served between 10:00-11:30am daily Tea by the Sea: full afternoon/cream teas 3:00 - 5:00pm daily Bar Lunch: noon - 2:00pm Traditional Sunday Lunch: 12:00 - 1:30pm. Bookings recommended Dinner: 7:00 - 8:30pm daily. Bookings recommended Please mention TheStewartryLINK when answering an advert

Garden View October ~ Lawns

In the interests of full disclosure I need to be honest with you here. I don’t actually have a lawn. I have grass. Sometimes it’s a bit mossy and sometimes there are sprinklings of daisies. As I also have two small boys and dog it often looks a bit threadbare. I used to have a lawn, sometime in the dim distant past, before children, pets and environmental ethics got in the way. The problem is that velvety green lawns require a lot of hard work. They are also particularly tricky to achieve if like me, you now garden organically as much as possible. A weed-free lawn is nigh-on impossible to achieve without the use of selective weed killers. It’s also tricky to achieve if you are trying to conserve water, as many of us are now. I do admit that there are occasions when I mourn the death of my beautiful swathe of green, but on the whole I’ve learned to love and work with what I have. Even workaday lawns need some care and attention, especially at this tail-end of the gardening year. A little TLC now will ensure that it has a head-start in spring. First spend a bit of time raking your grass with a wire-toothed spring rake. This drags out all the dead grass and moss. It’s called scarifying and I’ve always suspected that this is because the lawn looks scarifyingly bad after you’ve done it! Don’t panic though, it has to look worse before it looks better. The next task is to stab it all over with a garden fork. Push the fork in about 4-6 inches / 10-15cm and wiggle it about to relieve compaction. If your soil is clay-like, which mine isn’t, it’s good to sweep sharp sand into the holes to improve long term drainage. Now I know it looks a bit bald and sad at this point, but it’s worth giving it a cut so that it’s about 1 inch / 2.5cm high. Don’t mow it too short. One week later apply a water-on lawn food. If you’re not organic you can buy combined food and moss killers. If some of the patches look very bare, prick them lightly with a garden fork and reseed them with a hard-wearing grass mix. Finally when April comes around, apply a lawn fertiliser (which can contain a weed killer if you’re not organic) and start to mow regularly. Apply another top-up feed in June. By mowing once a week the grass will thicken, and although you might still get a few daisies here and there, your grass will be looking more lawn-like. And if it wouldn’t pass muster at Wimbledon who cares...daisies are really very pretty flowers. 26

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SOVEREIGN

R ancher Simple Safe Strong Tel: 01556 504888

APPROVED

www.rancher-equipment.co.uk

CONTRACTOR

Decorative Ironwork

Your wish is our command

Balconies, Gates, Railings Give us a visit to discuss your needs 1 & 2 Carlingwark St, Castle Douglas

www.rancher-equipment.co.uk

Tel: 01556 504888

WOODWORM WET ROT, DRY ROT RISING DAMP BASEMENT WATERPROOFING MASONRY REPAIRS & PLASTERING GENERAL BUILDING WORK PROPERTY MAINTENANCE 10 20 30 YEAR GUARANTEES

DUNCAN BURNS DAMP PROOF INJECTION, TIMBER TREATMENT

TEL: 01556 505893 MOB: 07730 449917

6 Abercromby Rd Castle Douglas DG7 1AY

MAKING MORE FROM THE WIND JUST GOT EASIER Glenquicken Engineering has just been appointed the main Proven VAR (reseller) in South West Scotland recognising our professionalism and expertise in the small wind market. This means that more people – farmers – householders – commercial premises can ‘harvest the wind’. • • • • • • • •

Proven wind turbine specialists 30 years engineering project management experience All services in-house from planning to completion Over 50 wind turbines installed over the last 2 years Based locally, fast response times, personal service Advanced technology means significant reduction in payback period Earn income selling excess powerback to the grid Be paid “Feed in Tariff” (FiTs) for all power produced

ARRANGE A FREE DESKTOP SURVEY or for more information or to view any of our turbines in operation and have their workings explained please call our office, email us or visit our website.

GLENQUICKEN ENGINEERING LIMITED, GLENQUICKEN, CREETOWN, NEWTON STEWART DG8 7ET T: 01671 820363 | M: 07778 562302 | E: glenquicken@btinternet.com | W: www.glenquickenwindturbines.co.uk

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Puzzle Page Crossword

Across 1 Advocate (7) 5 Spice (5) 8 Home decorating (3) 9 Large flightless bird (3) 10 Rest your feet! (3) 12 Distinctive (7) 13 Carousels (5-2-6) 15 Bright headlight (7) 18 Night bird (3) 19 Hotel (3) 20 Striped insect (3) 21 Giant monsters (5) 22 Shamrock or clover leaves (7) Down 1 Bequeath (5) 2 Twenty-four hours (3) 3 Return to Earth's atmosphere from outer space (7) 4 Might be used for 8 across (8,5) 5 Long, light, paddle boat (5) 6 Religious aid-worker (9) 7 Stinging plants (7) 11 Haphazard (9) 13 Gangster (7) 14 Crime (7) 16 Assemble (5) 17 Perfect (5) 20 Heckle (3)

Sudoku: Each Row, Column and 3x3 square must contain every number from 1 to 9 with no duplicates

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STEWARTRY TYRES Oakwell Road Castle Douglas DG7 1JY TYRES BATTERIES EXHAUSTS BRAKES

LARGE JOBS OR SMALL: HIGH QUALITY ELECTRICAL WORK IN YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS

Galloway Electrical Services FAST RESPONSE INSTALLATION AND REPAIR

Castle Douglas 01556 503777 Newton Stewart 01671 401112 GRAHAM ··SALES PARTS MOTORS ·REPAIRS Volkswagon Group Specialist

VALLEY VIEW COTTAGE, TARFF KIRKCUDBRIGHT

Telephone: 0782 744 0320

Hardwood Logs Dalbeattie Half Load £50 Full Load £80 Seasoned

01556 650370 Springholm Garage, Castle Douglas DG7 3LP Tel:

07827 736500 For all your Bathroom needs

14 St. Andrew Street • Stranraer • DG9 7EB

Free Press commercial print brings high quality, low cost colour printing within the reach of businesses large and small. From start to finish we are fully equipped to carry out any of your colour printing requirements.

From pre-press to press to finishing our plant has the latest in state of the art Heidelberg Graphics Technology. FP commercial print is a new service offered by one of south west Scotland’s most prestigious and oldest media publishers, Stranraer & Wigtownshire Free Press established in 1843.

· Permenatly competative prices · Supply & Fit or Supply Only · Full Planning & Installation Service by our own qualified tradesmen if required · New Build & Trade Packages available

Visit us at 24 New Market St, Castle Douglas - 01556 504978 Mon-Fri 9:30-5:00, Sat 10:00-3:00

We understand the need for a modern business to promote itself and its products accurately, imaginatively and above all successfully. We offer a bespoke service catering to the individual needs of each client and we believe each client to be an individual, not a number in a process.

• Honest y • Reliabilit y • Service • Value contact us now to see what

01776 702551 can do for you. Please mention TheStewartryLINK when answering an advert

Useful phone numbers: Emergencies Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Police - dial 999 Fire Brigade - 01387 263921 or dial 999 Ambulance - 01387 267144 or dial 999 Coastguard - 01557 331133 or dial 999 Mountain Rescue - dial 999 Environmental Protection - 0800 80 70 60 Dumfries & Galloway Council - 01387 260000 Childline - Freefone 0800 1111 Samaritans - 01387 253555 Rape Crisis Centre - 01387 253113 / 01776 889331 Scottish Gas - 01387 268010 Scottish Power Emergency - 0845 2727 999

Health Services Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Castle Douglas Clinic: Medical Group - 01556 505900 Castle Douglas Clinic: Dr Carson & Partners - 01556 502050 Castle Douglas Community Hospital - 01556 502333 Castle Douglas Dental Practice, Garden Hill - 01556 505703 Castle Douglas Dental Practice, King St - 01556 502488 Castle Douglas Dental Practice, St Andrews St - 01556 503348 Cresswell Maternity Hospital - 01387 246246 Dalbeattie Clinic - 01556 610331 Dalbeattie Dental Practice, Birch Valley - 01556 610917 Dumfries & Galloway Royal Infirmary - 01387 246246 Frendz Crisis Pregnancy Centre, Dumfries 01387 252288 Kirkcudbright Clinic - 01557 330755 Kirkcudbright Community Hospital - 01557 330549 Kirkcudbright Dental Surgery - 01557 330229 Kirkcudbright Pharmacist - 01557 332088 Newton Stewart Community Hospital - 01671 402015

General Information Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Alcoholics Anonymous 24 Hr Helpline - 0845 697555 Citizens Advice Bureau - 01556 502190 Family Mediation Service - 01387 263185 Food Train - 01557 332444 MSP, Galloway & West of Dfs, Alex Fergusson Narcotics Anonymous 24hr Helpline - 0141 2487101 Trading Standards 01387 260092

Have we got the phone numbers right? Is there a useful number that has been missed off the list? Please contact Jo, 07875 209927, info@stewartrylink.com 30

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September Solutions Mind Benders 1. Little House on the Prairie 2. They parted company 3. Elongate

This month’s solutions - several people have asked if we can have puzzle solutions in the same edition as the puzzles. Potential for cheating but if that is what most of you prefer then who am I to quibble. So we have last month’s and will print current solutions from now on.

Mind Benders 1. Hole in one 2. Wolf in sheep’s clothing 3. Split second timing

Win a pair of tickets to the

THE DRAMBUSTERS Whiskey Festival We have 2 pairs of tickets to give away to the biggest Whisky event of the year!!! TB Watson the organisers, have offered 4 tickets to give away to 2 lucky readers. Simply text the correct answer to 82727 for the following simple question: What is the name of the distillery in Dumfries & Galloway? Blairgowrie - Text Drambusters A to 82727 Bladnoch - Text Drambusters B to 82727 Glenbervie - Text Drambusters C to 82727 Texts for the competition cost £1 plus your standard network rate. For full terms and conditions see www.stewartrylink.com/win.html. Available to UK handsets only. Two winners will be selected randomly from all correct entries. Prize may be gifted to any individual by the winner’s written consent. By entering this competition you agree to additional contact by either TB Watson or The Stewartry Link for marketing purposes, you may unsubscribe at any time.

26th of November, Cairndale Hotel, Dumfries: 12 noon to 4:30pm Tickets £16, available in store and online www.drambusters.com Ticket price includes a dramming glass, water & programme.

Drambusters is a trading name of TB Watson Ltd, 11/17 English St Dumfries DG1 2BU 01387 256601 Info@tbwatson.co.uk

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HOWDENS JOINERY CO.

01556 505301 Castle Douglas Branch Abercromby Rd Industrial Park DG7 1LH

MASSIVE AUTUMN SALE

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R T

*No Tradesman? Pop in to our new showroom, plan your perfect kitchen and let us find a local fitter for you.

O A N D LY E *

Free Survey & Design