Blairgowrie & Rattray
Hub Magazine Could you help deliver this magazine to your street? Let us know, see page 3
Christmas 2016 Sponsored by Stagecoach
In this edition: Christmas What’s On Pull-Out
Citizens Advice, Credit Union
Blairgowrie Duke of Edinburgh Group
Useful Numbers
What’s On Events What’s On Every Week
Genealogy info Lots of updates for Groups in the town
Discover Blairgowrie www.discoverblairgowrie.co.uk
Discover Blairgowrie Magazine
Christmas 2016
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Discover Blairgowrie Magazine
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Welcome to the Christmas 2016 Magazine! One of the aims of Discover Blairgowrie is to promote the town to locals and visitors alike hence we bring you the Christmas Magazine in mid November with a center 4 page pull-out telling you What’s On in the run up to Christmas. We try to include everything that we know about so if there is something missing we apologise but please let us know so we can include next year!
Appeal for Volunteers We have a fantastic group of willing volunteers who deliver the magazine to your door every 3 months but we are always looking for more help. Even if you can just do your street, that will help spread the load and give us wider scope to cover holidays etc. Please call the One Voice office on 871120 or email admin@discoverblairgowrie.co.uk
Hub Magazine Stats Number of copies printed
4,600
Number of pages
60
Number of articles
39
Number of Advertisers
46
Income from adverts
£2,928
Cost of printing
£2,170
Cost to create
£300 + VAT
Profit
£400
The profit is used to sustain the magazine for future editions and promote the town and events including printing large A0 posters advertising What’s On, printing leaflets and covering the cost of meeting room hire as well as the One Voice Community Office. Advertising Prices
1 Issue b/w
1 Issue colour
Sponsor (Back Page - from May 2017) Inside Front/Back Cover
4 Issues + website
£300 £160 (£80 for half)
£1200 £650 (£325 for half page)
Full page £80 £140 £550 1/2 page £50 £70 £300 1/4 page £30 £38 £180 1/8 page £20 £20 N/A Magazine Created by: Graphite Web Solutions, Flat 3, 32 Wellmeadow, Blairgowrie (0800 988 5521) www.graphitewebsolutions.com, steve@graphitewebsolutions.com Printed via: The Copy Shop, 18 Reform Street, Blairgowrie (01250 873 591) Thank you to all One Voice Volunteers for article/advertisement collection and magazine delivery: One Voice Volunteer Group, 13 Upper Mill Street, Blairgowrie (01250 871 120) Magazine articles are the responsibility of the article owner, The Hub Magazine accepts no responsibility for the content. 3
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What’s On Calendar for Blairgowrie & Rattray - see page 6 for the What’s on Every Week! This is taken directly from Discover Blairgowrie website www.discoverblairgowrie.co.uk November: 19 Nov - Blair in Bloom Fund Raising Coffee Morning 10am to 12pm Blairgowrie Town Hall Motown Party 7pm The Angus Hotel 20 Nov - Blairgowrie Parish Church Messy Church 9:30am Blairgowrie & District Hill Walking Club - Schiehallion 21 Nov - Rattray SWI Nov Mtg 7/7.15pm Rattray Hall, Balmoral Road 23 Nov - Citizens Advice Bureau 23 Nov 10am - 12pm Rattray Connect 24 Nov - A Scottish Concert 12:00 - 2:30pm Balmoral Road Hall,Rattray 25 Nov - Blair & Rattray Time Bank 25 Nov 10am - 11.30am Rattray Connect 26 Nov - Christmas Coffee Morning - Angus Cat Rescue 10am to 12pm St Catharine’s Hall Christmas Fair 10.00 - 14.00 Blairgowrie Town Hall, Brown Street, Blairgowrie Christmas Lights Switch On 2pm - 5pm, Wellmeadow. Rattray switch on 3/3.15pm Twin Bees: A tribute to the Bee Gees 7pm The Angus hotel 27 Nov - Blairgowrie Parish Church Advent Sunday 11:00am Blairgowrie Parish Church Strathmore Screen Storks (U) 4pm and Bridget Jone’s Baby (15) 7pm Blairgowrie Town Hall 30 Nov - Civic Trust Meeting 7.30pm Adult Resource Centre, Jessie Street, Blairgowrie Craft n Craic 7pm - 9pm St Catharines Hall December: 3 Dec - Pop Music Party 7pm The Angus Hotel 4 Dec - Blairgowrie Parish Church Gift Service & Messy Church Angel Trail 11:00am Blairgowrie Parish Church Praise Service 7:00pm 6 Dec - Buddies @ Blair Dec 10.30am - 12 noon Cargill’s Bistro 7 Dec - Blairgowrie and District Trefoil Guild 7.30pm St Catharine’s Community Centre 7 - 9 Dec Blairgowrie Players Panto - A Christmas Carol 7th - 9th December 7pm, Town Hall 7 Dec - Blethers Group Christmas Lunch 12pm - 12:30pm The Royal Hotel Citizens Advice Bureau 10am - 12pm Learning Centre, at the Recreation Centre 8 Dec - Blairgowrie & Rattray Community Council Meeting 7pm Small Hall, Balmoral Rd, Rattray 9 Dec - Blair & Rattray Time Bank 10am - 11.30am SCYD, Wellmeadow House Festive Party Night: 70s & 80s Party 7pm The Angus Hotel Wisecraft & The Gig Christmas Fundraiser 9pm till late The Gig 10 -11th Blairgowrie Players Panto - A Christmas Carol 2pm. Blairgowrie Town Hall 10 Dec - A Christmas Fiddlers Rally 7:15 - 9:45pm Balmoral Road Hall,Rattray Lyric Choir Christmas Carol Concert 7pm St Catharines Church Rod Stewart Tribute Night 7pm The Angus Hotel 11 Dec - Blairgowrie Parish Church Time to Remember 3:00pm Blairgowrie & District Hill Walking Club Christmas walk – Birnam to Murthly Castle 14 Dec - Citizens Advice Bureau 1pm - 3pm Community Connect, High Street, Rattray Whist Club 2pm - 4pm YWCA Hall, William Street, Blairgowrie 15 Dec - Crafty Folk 2pm- 3.30pm SCYD Cafe, Wellmeadow House, Gas Brae, Blairgowrie 16 Dec - Festive Party Night: 80s & 90s Party 7pm The Angus Hotel 17 Dec - 3 Tenors Christmas Carols & Classics Show 7pm to 11pm Blairgowrie Town Hall Elvis Tribute Night 7pm The Angus Hotel 18 Dec - Blairgowrie Parish Church Christmas Nativity Service 11:00am Strathmore Screen Films Trolls (U) 4pm and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (TBC) 7pm Blairgowrie Town Hall 4
Discover Blairgowrie Magazine
Christmas 2016
19 Dec - Rattray SWI Dec Mtg 7/7.15pm Rattray Hall, Balmoral Road 20 Dec - Blairgowrie Parish Church Praise & Readings 7:30pm 21 Dec - Citizens Advice Bureau 21 Dec 10am - 12pm Learning Centre, at the Recreation Centre 23 Dec - Blairgowrie Parish Church School Christmas Service 11am 24 Dec - Blairgowrie Parish Church Christingle Service 6.30pm Christmas Eve Show with JJ Muir 7pm The Angus Hotel 25 Dec - Blairgowrie Parish Church Family Christmas Service 10.30am Christmas Day Show Night with Clark Stewart 7pm The Angus Hotel 26 Dec - Boxing Day Show Night 7pm The Angus Hotel 28 Dec - Twixmas Entertainment: Abba Tribute Night 7pm The Angus Hotel 29 Dec - Twixmas Entertainment: Chrimbo Limbo Disco 7pm The Angus Hotel January 2017: 1 Jan - Blairgowrie Parish Church Morning Service 11:00 New Year’s Day Walk and Fun Run - 33rd year! Walk at 12:30, Run starts at 1pm Registration - Blairgowrie Town Hall 4 Jan - Blethers Group 10am - 12pm The Royal Hotel 8 Jan - Blairgowrie & District Hill Walking Club 9:00am Kirkton Glen Isla 10 Jan - Whist Club 2pm - 4pm YWCA Hall, William Street, Blairgowrie 13 Jan - Blair & Rattray Time Bank 10:00 - 11:30am SCYD, Wellmeadow House 16 Jan - Rattray SWI Mtg 7/7.15pm Rattray Hall, Balmoral Road 19 Jan - Crafty Folk 2:00-4:00pm SCYD Café Wellmeadow House Blairgowrie 25 Jan - Civic Trust Meeting 7.30pm Adult Resource Centre, Jessie Street, Blairgowrie 25 Jan - Craft n Craic 7pm - 9pm St Catharines Hall 26 Jan - Blairgowrie & Rattray Forum Mtg 5.30pm The Angus Hotel - TBC 27 Jan - Blair & Rattray Time Bank 10:00 - 11:30am Rattray Connect 29 Jan - Blairgowrie & District Hill Walking Club - West Drumochter February 2017: 1 Feb - Blairgowrie and District Trefoil Guild - 7.30pm St Catharine’s Community Centre Blethers Group 10am - 12pm The Royal Hotel 10 Feb - Blair & Rattray Time Bank 10am - 11.30am SCYD, Wellmeadow House 14 Feb - Whist Club 2pm - 4pm YWCA Hall, William Street, Blairgowrie 16 Feb - Crafty Folk 2:00- 4:00pm SCYD Cafe, Wellmeadow House, Blairgowrie 19 Feb - Blairgowrie & District Hill Walking Club 9:00am Catlaw 20 Feb - Rattray SWI Mtg 7/7.15pm Rattray Hall, Balmoral Road 22 Feb - Civic Trust Meeting 7.30pm Adult Resource Centre, Jessie Street, Blairgowrie Craft n Craic 7pm - 9pm St Catharines Hall 24 Feb - Blair & Rattray Time Bank 10:00 - 11:30am Rattray Connect We try to include everything we can to make the informaiton in the magazine as accurate as possible. If we have made a mistake or missed you we apologise. This list of events is taken direct from the Discover Blairgowrie website so if you check the events page (www.discoverblairgowrie.co.uk/events) to make sure your events are included they will automatically be included in the magazine.
Shop, Taste, Play, Create Stay & Discover Blairgowrie 5
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UPDATE: One Voice and Booklore.
cash sales of tickets, which we did from the launch date in June until the weekend of the event.
It is nearly the end of another year and 2016 has been a busy one for the volunteers of One Voice Volunteer Group.
One Voice continues to be involved with the Isolation and Transportation group and the Cycle Path group.
BOOKS AND ART: After the re-organisation of the Booklore bookshop in January there have been many complimentary comments about the quality of stock and the shop layout. We are very grateful for the generosity of the local community in donating large numbers of books for us to sell or re-cycle via Bookdonors.
We continue to advertise events via posters, for local voluntary groups in our shop window and in the You Are Here Boards around Blairgowrie and Rattray. HOWES SALE 2016: Most recently our volunteers have been involved in running their second charity sale in Howe’s shop on Reform Street, raising around £1500, to support the Hub magazine and other initiatives. We owe our thanks to all those who generously donated items for the sale and to the volunteers who gave their time to man the shop.
Some of our volunteers have been trying out alternative ways to sell our books, by turning them into Book Art, examples of which can be seen and bought in the shop. THE HUB AND OTHER THINGS: The Hub magazine has gone from strength to strength and saw a collaboration with the Rotary Club of Blairgowrie in the Autumn edition, when their Directory was included as a centre pages pull-out. The website, likewise, is ever expanding. The Forum has proved a good arena for exchanging and gathering information about the activities of local groups and businesses who work together to promote the town.
A BIG, BIG THANK YOU: We are very grateful to over 30 volunteers who give their time to deliver the Hub magazine (free of charge) four times a year, to the residents of Blairgowrie and Rattray. THANK YOU ALL. If you have spare time we are always in need of volunteers to help in the bookshop/office or with the quarterly magazine deliveries. Contact us on 01250 871120 or drop into the shop at 13 Upper Mill Street, Blairgowrie.
Congratulations to the organisers of the Bookmark Festival for the huge success of this year’s Festival in its new venue at the Community Campus. One Voice’s role was in
BOOKLORE @ ONE VOICE 13 upper Mill Street Blairgowrie NOVEMBER 2016---50% off all Cookery books. CHRISTMAS 2016—Come to Booklore for quality second-hand books on all topics. Special Christmas section. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2017—All Collectors’ Corner books HALF PRICE!!! Winter opening hours 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Saturday. 6
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Christmas 2016
Whats On Every Week These activities are taken from the Discover Blairgowrie website - we ask you to check the website and with organisers to ensure the activities are on as we can only provide the information we are given. Monday 10am - 11am 10am - 12pm 2pm - 4pm 5pm - 8pm 5:30pm - 7:00pm 6pm - 7pm 7pm - 8pm 8pm - 9pm 2pm - 3pm
Ladies Self Defence CHSS Support Mtg Craft Group Highland Dancing Smart Recovery Walking Football Karate Karate Keep fit (£2.60)
Rattray Bowling Club St. Catharine’s Centre Parish Church Rear Hall Blair Physio Studio 10 Lower Mill Street Community Campus Community Campus Community Campus ARC, Jessie Street
Evolution Combat Sports Blairgowrie Stroke Club Parish Church Blair Physio PKAVS SCYD Shotokan Karate Club Shotokan Karate Club Healthy Communities
Ashtanga Yoga Prayer Group Realistic Pilates Realistic Pilates Bookbug Rhymetime Badminton Bookbug Rhymetime Minority Communities Childrens Russian Ballet Conversation Cafe Martial Arts 4-7yrs Martial Arts 8-14yrs Bible Study Lyric Choir Army Cadet Force Scottish Country Dancing
Blair Physio Studio Church Creche Room Blair Physio Studio Blair Physio Studio Blairgowrie Library Parish Church Hall Blairgowrie Library SCYD Blair Physio Studio Wellmeadow Cafe Community Campus Community Campus Various Venues Balmoral Road Hall Check on the page Town Hall
Blair Physio Parish Church Blair Physio Blair Physio Blairgowrie Library Parish Church Blairgowrie Library PKAVS Blair Physio Joint Recovery Project Evolution Combat Sports Evolution Combat Sports Parish Church Blairgowrie Lyric Choir Army Cadet Force Ericht SCDC
Walking Meditation Personal Training Dance (3 - 5yrs) Pre-school storytime Youth Theatre Kidz Zone p1-7 (Pre Book) Youth Theatre Slimming World Pilates Darts Youth Academy Meditation Class Speaker and evening meal Cub Scouts Karate Hatha Yoga
Blairgowrie Town Hall Blair Physio Studio Blair Physio Studio Guide Hut, Emma St Blairgowrie Library Rattray Hall Lifeplus Centre Rattray Hall Blairgowrie Bowling Club Blair Physio Studio The Gig, Blairgowrie Blair Physio Studio The Royal Hotel Guide Hut Coupar Angus Hall Blair Physio Studio
B&DNS Blair Physio Blair Physio Under 5’s Dance Class Blairgowrie Library Bits & Bobs Youth Theatre Blairgowrie Lifeplus Church Bits & Bobs Youth Theatre Slimming World Blair Physio Darts Youth Academy Blair Physio Rotary Club of Blairgowrie Cub Scouts Shotokan Karate Club Blairgowrie Physiotherapy
Tuesday 6:30am - 7:30am 8.30am - 9.30am 9:45am - 10:45am 10:45am - 11:45am 11am - 11:30am 1.30 pm - 3.30 pm 2pm - 2:30pm 2pm - 4.30pm 4pm - 5pm 4.30pm - 6.30pm 6pm - 6.45pm 6.45pm - 7.30pm 7pm - 9pm 7 pm - 9 pm 7pm - 9pm 7.30pm - 9.30pm
Wednesday 9.15am - 12.30pm 9:30am - 10:30am 11am - 12pm 1:15pm - 1:55pm 2:15pm - 2:45pm 3:45pm - 4:45pm 4.15pm - 5.15pm 5pm - 6:30pm 5.30pm - 7pm 5:45 - 6:45 6pm - 7:30pm 5:45pm - 6:45pm 6pm - 10pm 6:30pm * - 7:45pm 6:30pm - 7:30pm 7pm - 8:15pm
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7pm - 8pm 7.30pm - 9pm
Netball Slimming World
Blairgowrie Recreation Centre Blairgowrie Bowling Club
Blair Bolts Netball Club Slimming World
7:30pm - 9:30pm
Dancing
Blair Town Hall
Blairgowrie SCDC
9.30am - 11.30am 10am - 11am 10.30am - 3.30pm 10.30 - 12.30 12pm - 2pm 6pm - 7pm 6pm - 8pm* 6.45pm - 7.30pm 7pm - 9pm 7pm - late 7pm - 9pm 7pm - 9pm 7:15pm - 8:15pm 7.30pm - 9pm 8pm - 9pm
Friendship Cafe Realistic Pilates Greenspace Volunteers Credit Union Lip Reading (from 8 Oct) Ashtanga Yoga Judo Martial Arts 8-14yrs Army Cadet Force Bingo Pipe Band Tuition/Practice Army Cadet Force Pilates Martial Arts 15yrs+ Badminton
Balmoral Road Hall, Rattray Blair Physio Studio Loon Braes, Davie Park Council Office, 46 Leslie Street Rattray Community Connect Blair Physio Studio Rattray Community Connect Community Campus Cadet Hall, Union St British Legion, George Street A.Proctor Ltd, Dunkeld Road Check on the page Blair Physio Community Campus Recreation Centre
Friendship Cafe Blairgowrie Physiotherapy The Loon Braes Task Force P & K Credit Union Lip reading Class - Free Blairgowrie Physiotherapy Blairgowrie Judo Club Evolution Combat Sports Army Cadet Force Legion Scotland Blairgowrie Pipe Band Army Cadet Force Blairgowrie Physiotherapy Evolution Combat Sports Blair Badminton Club
8:20pm - 9:20pm
Pilates
Blair Physio Studio
Blairgowrie Physiotherapy
10 am - 12 noon 10am - 11.30am 10am - 11.30am 4pm - 5pm 6pm - 7pm
Carpet Bowls Timebank Timebank IT Drop In Karate
Blairgowrie Parish Hall Blairgowrie Parish Church Community Connect (Last Friday) Blair & Rattray Time Bank SCYD (2nd Friday) Blair & Rattray Time Bank Wellmeadow Cafe SCYD Community Campus Shotokan Karate Club
7pm - 8pm
Karate
Community Campus
Shotokan Karate Club
Bingo
British Legion, George Street
Legion Scotland
Kundalini Yoga Church Service Sunday School Youth Theatre
Blair Physio Studio Blairgowrie Parish Church Blairgowrie Parish Church Hall Rattray Hall
Blair Physio Blairgowrie Parish Church Blairgowrie Parish Church Bits & Bobs Youth Theatre
Thursday
Friday
Saturday 8pm - late
Sunday 9:45 - 10:45 11 am - 12 noon 11 am - 12 noon 11:30am - 12:30am
ILLUMINATIONS Preparations are well under way for the erection of the Christmas Lights in the town. The volunteers have been busy over the past few weeks replacing all the old style bulbs with new LED, energy saving bulbs and checking that all the displays are working and ready to go up. This will take place on Sunday 20th November from 8am and the committee advise that anyone in the town on that day, especially in the morning, take care whilst driving and walking in the area that the volunteers are working. As has been intimated previously, we are purchasing 3 new cross-street displays for Allan Street, to replace the existing ones. We hope that they will arrive in time but there may be delays in delivery. 8
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We have everything crossed that the new lights will be delivered in time for the 20th but, if not, this is the plan: all the displays will go up on the 20th Nov, except the 3 cross-street lights and the switch-on will take place as per arranged on 26 November. The new lights will then be erected as soon as possible after their delivery. Dates for the diary: 19 November -
Fundraising raffle in Tesco – all day
20 November -
Lights erected in Blairgowrie & Rattray
26 November -
Switch-on event in Wellmeadow 2-5pm
Rattray Lights switch-on 3/3.15pm – followed by parade with
Santa and Blairgowrie, Rattray & District Pipe Band to Wellmeadow
12-17 December - Santa and his sleigh roundabout the town If anyone would like to help out with any of these events please contact Margaret on 870372 or Keith on 874776
Blairgowrie & Rattray Community Council
Trust in the Townhall where a number of artefacts of great local significance will be on display. Hopefully both will have attracted deservedly good levels of support from the public.
Summer lasted well into September and as I write this we are being treated to a glorious display of autumnal colours. At the same time volunteers in the town are working on their plans for the winter season and before this edition of the Hub magazine is published the Christmas lights will be in place ready for the switch on scheduled for the 26th November.
Although only a couple of months have passed since the last update was penned, there has been one notable improvement to the town, this time due to the efforts of David Bailey who sadly passed away in August.
We are very lucky to have such a diverse community with so many people willing to give their time in order that we can all enjoy the various activities that mark the passing seasons.
As the first Chair of this iteration of the Community Council, David set the standards of transparency, commitment and inclusivity that the council follows at every meeting and in everything that it does. David was passionate about a number of subjects, one of which was improved access to the Cottage Hospital. NHS Scotland have recently completed the path from the Perth Road entrance to the doors of the hospital thus ensuring safe access for all patients arriving by foot. It is to be hoped that Perth and Kinross Council speedily complete this work by providing the necessary controlled crossing point over the Perth Road.
One such was the recent Bookmark Festival, this has now grown to a significant Scottish event with people travelling far and wide to enjoy the programme, Christine Findlay and her team are to be congratulated for putting on such a magnificent event. This year’s venue, the Community Campus, proved to be an ideal home for the event, it is great that we have such a facility in the town. Now established as one of the town’s key events we wish the organisers every success in future years.
The Community Council has a number of sub groups led by various members and all of these continue to make progress, one of these is Community Resilience, led by Brian Smith. Brian has successfully applied for grant
Other events will have been and gone by this magazine’s publication date, one will be the screening of the Hamish Henderson film, the other an event organised by the History 9
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funding from SSE and the group is now in the position of being able to plan the necessary infrastructure and purchase of rescue equipment.
vacancies out of a total compliment of 15. Our next meeting is at the Adult Resource Centre in Jessie Street on Thurs 10th November and the following one at the same venue on Thurs 8th December. Do come along and see local democracy in action for yourself, in this way anyone with any interest in joining can appreciate what we do and how we function.
Other sub groups will have posted their regular updates in this magazine. With winter approaching, now is the time for householders to trim back hedges and overhanging branches to ensure clear sight lines along our roads and unrestricted access along the pathways. This becomes particularly important on wintery days. If you need help with this work or for gutter clearing there should be adverts in the back of the magazine for the relevant local services.
Learn more by visiting our website https:// brcommunitycouncil.org.uk/ and/or our FB page https://www.facebook.com/ blairgowrierattraycommunitycouncil/ We look forward to welcoming you to one of our next meetings.
The Community Council currently has four
Ian Richards - Vice Chair BRCC
Snippets from Barbara’s Reading
formed Old Rattray.
The name Rattray means, “Fort of the hunter”
New Rattray grew around the top of Boat Brae after the Brig of Blair was built in 1777, as the new Turnpike roads were being developed.
The Rattray Kirk was established in 1170 and was central to the area of housing which
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Christmas 2016
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Blairgowrie & Rattray Community Football Club
been donated by the S.F.P. enabling outdoor training to continue while the weather is still good. Another big thank you to them.
The Club continues to flourish mainly due to a very few dedicated coaches and volunteers virtually every week of the year. A recent addition to the list of teams is the formation of a team of boys from the 2011 age group. Like all the other teams, they are always looking for assistance, whether it be to train as a coach, administer first aid or just be on hand to look after equipment. An hour a week of your time would always be a help so do contact the Club
October saw the Clubs A.G.M. with the minutes and list of the new committee members listed on the web. By the time you read this there should hopefully be a weekly Soccer School in operation at Rattray Connect. Initially it will be run by coaches from the S.F.A. with local coaches getting involved thereafter. The aim of this is to introduce young boys into football in a secure and fun way, again full details from the usual sources. alex.thomson@ tiscali.co.uk gavintolmie@yahoo.co.uk Facebook and www.brcfc.org.uk
Our Club web site is now fully up and running due to a lot of hard work by Steve Johnson of Graphite Web Solutions, it contains details of the Club Teams and contacts as well as a details of Sponsors etc. Check out www.brcfc. org.uk
As the festive season will soon be upon us can I on behalf of all the boys, girls, coaches and committee thank every one of you for supporting the B.R.C.F.C. over the past year, have a very Merry Christmas and we look forward to a great new year.
As the winter approaches a lot of the youngsters’ start indoor training, this will feature mainly at Rattray Connect, again details on the web site. A set of four portable floodlights have
Cllr Bob Ellis (Scottish National Party – Blairgowrie & Glens Ward)
It was a pleasure to be involved in the very successful Bookmark Festival organised by an excellent team of volunteers led by Christine Findlay. The speakers / authors were all very interesting and at times had the audiences spellbound and in fits of laughter. Using the Community Campus for the venue was a great asset and it just goes to show what it can be used for and I hope to see more of this kind of use in the future.
There are quite a few issues going on at the moment in our town. The first that I would like to comment on is problem on Upper Allan Street, where lorries going to the factory down past Knockie are causing problems for the residents. I did attend a meeting in SCYD and as a result took part in an exercise with colleagues within the Council to look at alternative ways of getting to the factory but pardon the pun but this has proved to be fruitless. Other means are still being looked at though.
The Strathmore Cycle Group of which I am a member of has now more or less been in contact with all of the landowners between Blairgowrie, Coupar Angus and Alyth and we are very hopeful of not just creating safe routes to cycle on between these towns but also getting them signed. One of the routes does require building a bridge over the Isla
On the traffic theme, towards the end of this month fellow councillors along with traffic officers are to walk around the town looking at all of the issues that arise on a regular basis. All of these issues will be prioritised and obviously consulted on. 12
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but this is a project that may well attract a great deal of interest.
Being part of another volunteer group, Blairgowrie & Rattray Access Network is a joy, even though it is hard work. Doing a tremendous amount of maintenance on our paths is both rewarding and healthy and I cannot thank them all enough for the weekly work they do.
I attended the Ericht Trust AGM alongside around 35 others. It was generally about the Trust losing the old Hill Primary buildings but other possibilities came through as well, like the Blairgowrie Charrette led by Community Councillor Stuart Nicol. I am of the firm belief that not just the findings but the end result will be of great benefit to the town and the surrounding area.
By the time this Magazine drops through your letter box, we will be nearly entering the festive season, with the Christmas Lights Switch On, Panto’s and parties and I know that a Christmas Fayre is on the cards as well. So, I sincerely hope that you all enjoy the festive season regardless of what the weather brings us.
As far as the onset of the recreation centre new build, I am now waiting for the final part of the Project Team to be put together, which should be in place by the end of the month or beginning of November. A proper site investigation will then take place and then consultation with all user groups and
As usual, I can be contacted on 01250 873899 or by emailing me at rsellis@pkc.gov.uk
Snippets from Barbara’s Reading
This was mainly due to the building of mills on the banks of the Ericht to process Flax and then Jute.
The name Blairgowrie means the “Battlefield” During the 18th century the town grew from a village of 400 to 4,000 by the 19th century.
Blairgowrie and Rattray were united in 1928.
Xmas Shopping & Tearoom
Only 25 minutes drive (13 miles) from Blairgowrie on the A93, Glenshee Rd. Tel. 01250 882238 Great selection of quality gifts, knitwear, stocking fillers, toys and food items – Perfect for Christmas Gifts! Open 10am – 4pm, Fri/Sat/Sun/Mon Nov & Dec Closed from 19th Dec, reopening for the ski season Special Events: 11th November 10am – late, Cheese & Wine -Enjoy complimentary wines & nibbles as you do some Christmas Shopping 23rd November 7pm – 10pm, Ladies Only Shopping Night with a complimentary fizz cocktail or mocktail 7th December 7pm – 10pm, Gents Only Shopping Night with a complimentary beer or dram with present wrapping service 10th & 11th December -10am to 4pm Family Christmas Weekend, visit Santa’s grotto & crafts
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Christmas 2016
The Blairgowrie Duke of Edinburgh The Blairgowrie Open Group of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has just completed its 15th season. Since its inception, the unit has trained and supervised an average of 30 young people per year at three levels – Bronze, Silver and Gold. The Award is open to all young people between the ages of 14 and 25. The Open Group requires the participants to complete all DofE tasks in their own time. Doing it in their own time demonstrates a high level of commitment which is a good indicator of the character of the individual. Most people associate the DofE with camping expeditions but the participants must also complete three other sections to qualify for an Award. These are: volunteering; learning or improving a sport; and learning or improving a skill. Gold level participants must also do a oneweek residential. The unit meets one evening a week at the Adult Resource Centre in Jessie St. A substantial stock of equipment is held and hired out for use on expeditions. The only items they need to provide themselves are boots and a sleeping bag.
On the Practice the leaders will be fairly close to the group but on the Qualifying expeditions this supervision is at a distance. Examples of where the groups go are: the Amulree area; the Catlaw area; Ardverickie and Ben Alder estates; and the Cairngorms. Gold Groups usually go further afield. As well as being remotely supervised each group must be assessed by a qualified, independent assessor. All this requires a considerable input from volunteer helpers. For wild country, the leader must be a qualified Summer Mountain Leader. To achieve this, a person must attend a six-day training course and pass a five day assessment. The cost is usually covered by the Group and/ or the Council but a considerable time input is obviously required.
The training sessions start in November each year after a parents’ open night in October. The participants have to learn all the skills necessary for travelling and camping in wild country. The expedition season starts in March with a day training walk. The Bronzes usually walk in small groups of three or four, each with an adult leader. They learn how to carry a big rucksack, how to erect a tent, how to navigate and what to look for in their surroundings. The Silvers and Golds practice walking on a bearing, coping with more challenging terrain and again observation.
Weekly training also requires up to 7 volunteers to instruct and supervise the groups from November to August. No qualifications are needed, just an ability to work with teenagers and come along regularly. There is a constituted Support Group which is financially responsible for the unit. The members are often parents who wish to help in some way but are unable to commit to training sessions or expeditions.
Expeditions are organised in groups of four to seven participants. Each of these is selfcontained but supervised by two adult volunteers. At least one of these will be qualified to Mountain Leader level. Bronze do two days and one night camping. Silver do three days and Gold do four days. Each group must carry out a practice expedition before they can go on the Qualifying. These are done in April. The Qualifying walks are done in June to August.
Anyone interested in volunteering or joining the Support Group can get more information by contacting Norman Smith on nosmith@pkc. gov.uk. 15
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Planning a journey? Begin your next trip on Stagecoach’s new website! Stagecoach launched a brand new website late last year, which is much easier to use, easier to plan your journeys and easier to see updates about your bus service. Using the site it’s now really simple to: • plan your journey • personalise your timetables • find your next bus or nearest bus stop • buy more tickets online • add tickets to your StagecoachSmart card • save favourite journeys to your account easily • find service updates for your bus route • register your StagecoachSmart card for protection if you lose it And now, you can get everything you love about Stagecoachbus.com - in your pocket! The Stagecoach bus app has all you need in one place - journey planning, live bus information in real time and mobile bus tickets (m-tickets available from early 2017). Now it’s even easier to find your nearest bus stop and plan your journey using your phone. Here’s how the app makes bus travel even easier: • What’s nearby? Set your location using your phone’s GPS to find the right buses, stops and routes for wherever you are. • Where do you want to go? Use the journey planner to get from A to B with ease, including ticket options, walking directions and disruption updates. • Check live bus times so you know exactly when it will arrive, and once on the bus, follow your journey so you know exactly when to get off the bus. • Save your favourite buses, journeys and stops for even easier journey planning. Available free on the App Store (iPhone) and Google Play (Android), just search Stagecoach Bus on the App Store or Google Play store. 16
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Christmas 2016
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Christmas 2016
DON’T PUT DEBT ON YOUR CHRISTMAS LIST
free celebration. “The last thing your family would want is to see you in financial trouble in 2017. Manage expectations early. If you think Christmas will be difficult, talk to family early and decide what you can afford together. They may want to chip in with bigger items or you may decide on a ‘presents for children only’ rule.
THE local arm of a debt charity is calling for people not to cope with the festive season by relying on expensive credit. Christians Against Poverty (CAP) says it sees many struggling to cope with the cost of Christmas. Manager of the Highland Perthshire CAP Centre, Angela Hanvey said: “We know Christmas fills some people with dread.” CAP records that more than a third of people asking the charity for help with debts say they have seriously considered or attempted suicide. Angela said: “A shocking number of the people we’re helping were once so stressed and desperate, they thought suicide was their only way out. It’s incredibly sad because once we’re alongside, tackling their finances with them, it’s amazing to see how fast that feeling of hope is restored. We’ve never yet seen a situation that can’t be sorted out, so please, you’re not on your own, call and see what we can do to lift that weight.”
CAP is an award-winning charity offering a free service to everyone regardless of age, gender, faith or background. It sees every client confidentially in their home, offering both emotional support and a practical solution. CAP’s dedicated headoffice staff negotiate with creditors on the client’s behalf and help to draw up a budget. A team of befrienders ensures that each person paying off debts or going through an insolvency is supported, often by others who have experienced the same situations themselves.
“With Christmas on the way, there’s a lot of hype from marketing people about buying the perfect Christmas, which we know in our hearts isn’t real life, but we all get so easily swept up in it. As that hits our TV screens, we need to get together our own personalised plans for an enjoyable, stress-
If you need help with debts or would like to attend a CAP Money course, visit capuk.org or call 0800 328 0006 Or if you feel you could help your local centre, find out how from Angela on: 07513 652597 or email angelahanvey@capuk.org
Blairgowrie and Rattray Civic Trust
Snippets from Barbara’s Reading
The Blairgowrie and Rattray Civic Trust is holding its Christmas lunch in the Royal hotel, Blairgowrie on Tuesday 6th December - 12.30 for 1pm. We have an excellent humorous guest speaker lined up, Mr David Kelly. Please come along and enjoy the company and cheer.
Until the 1890’s sewage flowed freely into the river Ericht unfiltered. There were said to be 2 outlets, by the Railway Station and the Bridge. By then however, this had reached crisis point and from then on it was carried some 1,600 yards beyond the Railway Station where it was filtered with the effluent then flowing into the river. Finally a filter House was built on Dr Rattray’s Wellton Estate covering one and half acres. By the early 1900’s this was completed.
Contact Jacki McCorkindale jacki.mac@sky.com 01250 876867
www.discoverblairgowrie.co.uk Shop, Taste, Play, Create. Stay & Discover Blairgowrie 18
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Christmas 2016
Angus the
hotel
Festive Dates for Your Diary...
SAT 26 NOV FESTIVE LIGHTS SWITCH-ON UNPLUGGED (2-5pm)
Enjoy a pre or post-festive lights switch-on drink, snack or meal to the relaxing sound of some unplugged festive tunes.
TUE 29 NOV FESTIVE TEA DANCE (2-5pm)
Join us for an afternoon full of festive cheer! With a choice of lunch or afternoon tea & dancing to Christmas favourites from Clarke Stewart.
SAT 3 DEC POP SOUND’S FESTIVE TRIBUTE NIGHT (7pm-12.30am) With festive cocktail, great food plus DJ and pop tribute act - what’s not to like!
FRI 9 DEC 70’s & 80’s DISCO PARTY NIGHT UT O SAT 10 DEC ROD STEWART FESTIVE TRIBUTE NIGHT LD O S FRI 16 DEC 80’s & 90’s DISCO PARTY NIGHT SAT 17 DEC ELVIS FESTIVE TRIBUTE NIGHT T (7pm-12.30am) With festive cocktail, great food plus DJ plus amazing Elvis tribute!
SUN 25 DEC CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCHES
Take the strain out of Christmas Day and join us for a stress free meal with family and friends. Reservations now being taken for 12.30pm / 1pm / 1.30pm / 2pm / 2.30pm / 3pm and 3.30pm
SAT 31 DEC HOGMANAY GALA DINNER & CEILIDH Kick off your Hogmanay celebrations in style with cocktails and canapés before a sumptuous gala dinner and ceilidh with Spirit of Scotland & Harry Mac.
BOOK NOW ON 01250 872455
ANGUS HOTEL, WELLMEADOW, BLAIRGOWRIE
for further info visit theangushotel.com Blairgowrie Hub Advert2.indd 1
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Christmas 2016
Friendship Cafe
fund raising events.
Our exhibition at the RATTRAY ART FESTIVAL recently caused quite a stir with the public we called it ART IN CARE where some of the clients in CARE or ATTEND DAILY PROGRAMMES showed their talents of paintings, jewellery, landscapes and various works they do when in there activites group. it’s a great feat what is produced when one has HEALTH ISSUES. We hope to put on another exhibition some time next year, that would involve other groups. One lady was so impressed she handed into the CAFE’ a box of handicraft items, we were also mentioned on Facebook. So look out for our ART IN CARE date.
THURSDAY 24TH NOVEMBER A SCOTTISH CONCERT with Bothy Singer JOE AITKEN music by JIM BROON TRIO Stovies served at 12noon --- Concert starts 1pm finishes approx 2.30pm- DONATION £3.00 SATURDAY 10TH DECEMBER A CHRISTMAS FIDDLERS RALLY - DUNKELD STRATHSPEY AND REEL SOCIETY Starts at 7.15 PM finishes approx 9.45 pm DONATION £7.00 all in the BALMORAL ROAD HALL, RATTRAY. ALL BY TICKET ONLY CALL ALY MUIR 01250 873 602
The CAFE meets on Thursday mornings 10am to 11.30 am in the Balmoral Road Hall,Rattray tea and coffee is served we encourge chat and friendship along with entertainment a warm welcome awaits you. Maybe you would like to support us by coming to our next two
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O Sh p e ow ni H ng o m So e on
Christmas 2016
It’s almost time to reveal our stunning new apartments in Blairgowrie Coupar Angus Road, Blairgowrie PH10 6JN Brand new 1 & 2 bed Retirement Living apartments coming soon n
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Artwork Client: McCarthy & Stone
Doc: 1-00101754.019 MAS Blairgowrie Comm Mag (277x190) Ad AW
Project: Blairgowrie Community Mag
Size: (277)mm x (190)mm
A/C: Emily
CMYK
Date: 28.10.16
Version: 1
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Christmas 2016
Blairgowrie Mobile Foot Clinic
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Christmas 2016
Winner Best Restaurant in Scotland Scotland’s Business Awards 2016 Christmas menu served from Tuesday 13th December Daily changing Specials menu www.littlesrestaurant.co.uk /WillieLittles 4 Wellmeadow Blairgowrie PH10 6ND 01250 875358
ACG Accounting Services Working with Sole Traders and Small Businesses Based in Alyth, we specialise in Sole Traders, Small Employers and Small Businesses in Blairgowrie and East Perthshire. First consultation is free, so don’t be afraid to give us a call for an informal chat on how we can help. We concentrate on providing a professional and friendly service allowing you to focus on managing and growing your business and doing the work you enjoy, rather than being overwhelmed with administration. Fees are fixed for all our services so there are no surprises and no hidden or set-up costs. We offer a flexible payment plan as an option. A professional, personalised, friendly and confidential service is central to our business approach. 7 Birch Crescent, Blairgowrie, PH10 6TS Tel: 01250 871 097 ; Mobile: 07999 694 006 Email: enquiries@acgaccountingservices.co.uk www. acgaccountingservices.co.uk 23
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Gift vouchers Available
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Christmas 2016
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To Book Tel: 01250 870062 ● www.blairgowriephysiotherapy.co.uk 1 High Street, Blairgowrie, PH10 6ET
The Card Gallery
Lu Ballet
“It’s the Thought that Counts” Children's Russian Ballet Classes
Extensive range of quality Christmas and everyday Cards including boxed Christmas Cards and Charity.
Vaganova - Russian Classic Teaching Method Suitable for both boys & girls
New Luxury Home Fragrance Candles hand made with essential oils and Soy Wax; bringing the benefits of Aromatherapy to enhance your well-being.
Between the ages of 6-8
Tuesdays 4-5pm in our purpose built dance studio To book your place call 01250 870062 **LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE**
Also SIABANN Skin Candle – burn it, melt it, rub the wax on to your skin as a moisturiser. Suitable for Vegans.
Appointments Tel: 01250 884252
Silk velvet tartan infinity scarves. Luxurious pure silk hand dyed scarves. Pewter Brooches. All of the above gifts hand made in Scotland.
DSM. DARM. Dip. MANIP., SMTO REMEDIAL MASSAGE & MANIPULATIVE THERAPY
Range of “The Broons” and “Kelpie” gifts
Treating:
Back pain
23, Allan Street, Blairgowrie, PH10 6AB
Repetitive stress injuries
01250 876444
Neck and shoulder pain 24
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Christmas 2016
John Swinney MSP
broadband and Glow, and updating the technologies curriculum to bring it in line with digital developments and clarify expectations around digital technology.
Veterans and ex-service charities are to be supported by £600,000 funding over the next three years. The Scottish Veterans Fund will help a wide range of projects to support veterans, including employability, housing, befriending and wellbeing. The fund includes a three-year £240,000 contribution from Standard Life for projects to assist veterans’ employment.
Evidence shows that technology in the classroom can enhance learning and teaching, lead to improved educational outcomes and equip our children and young people with vital digital skills.
The Scottish Veterans Fund has invested more than £830,000 and supported 125 projects that provide advice, help and support to the thousands of veterans leaving the armed forces.
This strategy is a key part of the Scottish Government’s mission to raise the educational attainment of our children and young people. It sets out how we will improve children’s access to digital learning opportunities, develop teachers’ skills and confidence and ensure the use of digital technology is central to our curriculum.
The fund will open formally for applications later this autumn and the Scottish Government and Standard Life are keen to see a strong set of applications from projects across Scotland. Queries on the criteria for application should be addressed to the General Secretary of Veterans Scotland on 0131 550 1569 or, preferably, by e-mail to office@veteransscotland.org.uk
Technology can be a powerful and engaging tool to enrich learning. We are determined to support Scotland’s teachers to use technology to its best potential so children can improve their educational outcomes and develop skills that will be vital for their life, learning and work. The strategy is available at: http://www.gov.scot/ Publications/2016/09/9494
I was pleased to recently announce that children and teachers are to be supported to access and deliver more digital learning in the classroom, through a new strategy to increase the use of digital technology to support learning and teaching in schools.
I can be contacted at 17-19 Leslie Street, Blairgowrie, PH10 6AH, on 01250 876 576 or at john.swinney.msp@parliament.scot
Measures include developing teachers’ skills and confidence, continuing to provide
Snippets from Barbara’s Reading Dark deeds indeed as in 1554 the Laird of Newton, George Drummond and his son William were murdered by a gang of about 80. They were recorded as being the Lairds of Gormack, Ardblair and Drumlochy. Some from the gang were outlawed (the term used, “put to the Horn”) and a few executed. The Highland fault line can be found along the valley of the Lochty Burn and is the dividing line between the Highlands and Lowlands.
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Blairgowrie Parish Church Services: Sunday, 20th November 9.30am Messy Church Sunday, 27th November 11am Advent Sunday Sunday, 4th December 11am Gift Service and Messy Church Angel Trail, 7pm Praise Service Sunday, 11th December 3pm Time to Remember Sunday, 18th December 11am Christmas Nativity Service Tuesday, 20th December 7.30pm Christmas Praise and Readings Friday, 23rd December 11am School Service Saturday, 24th December 6.30pm Christingle Sunday, 25th December 10.30am Christmas Day Family Service Sunday, 1st January 2017 11am Morning service
The Blairgowrie Pplayers Christmas Panto This year Blairgowrie Players are bringing A Christmas Carol to the stage in Blairgowrie Town Hall as their annual pre-Christmas production. This pantomime version of the wellknown Dickens story is written by Nick Moore and directed by Pamela Howat. It is full of song, dance, humour, ghostly goings on and, of course, humbug but make sure you have a tissue at the ready for the sad bits. We have our very own Graham Reid as Scrooge (not much stage make up needed there!!), the return of some of our previous all singing panto performers, lots of new young cast members and the odd not so young, but new, cast member! The performances start on Wednesday 7th and run through to Friday 9th December at 7.00pm and on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th December at 2.00pm in The Town Hall in Blairgowrie. The duration of the show is expected to be 2 hours. Tickets will be on sale to the general public by Saturday 5th November and can be purchased from Scott’s Pet Shop, Reform Street, Blairgowrie Tel: 01250 874230 or you may reserve them by emailing blairplayers@btinternet. com. Any unsold ticket will be available for purchase on the door. 26
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Christmas 2016
PKAVS Carers Hub Do you look after someone? You may be an unpaid carer… Anyone can be a carer whether a mum, dad, brother, sister, grandparent, partner, friend or neighbour. You may care for someone with a long term health condition or someone who unexpectedly needs support. This support can be for the short or the long term and you may not live with the person you care for. Whatever your caring situation PKAVS Carers Hub is here to help. Whether you just need a chat or are looking for more information, support and advice give our team a call today on 01738 567076. You shouldn’t have to cope alone.
PKAVS Carers Hub Website PKAVS has launched a new multi-agency Carers Hub website which offers carers quality information and online support. This website allows carers to access information, support, advice and opportunities within their community online. What you can expect: • Practical information and advice for Carers • What’s on for Carers within Perth and Kinross • Need a break? List of opportunities for carers and their cared for. • Advice and support for Carers • Read about other Carers stories…you are not alone. • List of organisations that offer specific support to carers. Please go to www.pkavscarershub.org.uk to be part of this online community and see what support is out there for Carers within Perth and Kinross. For more information please contact PKAVS Carers Hub on 01738 567076. PKAVS is a registered Scottish Charity (SC 005561) and a company Limited by Guarantee, Registered in Scotland (86065)
www.pkavs.org.uk 27
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Christmas 2016
Please Colour me in! 28
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Saturday 26th November 2016 dren al chil c o l y nt b ainme t r e t n or tes al e ising f a r Music r local ar tis d n lls fu he eadow ity sta and ot n u Wellm m: m s com t 2p Variou n causes. From ights a e l r i e h w -on t to th their o switch rade down l l i w attray y a Rattra ross then p lairgowrie, R his in C B .15pm at the dow led by d and Santa 3pm/3 n ea Wellm rict Pipe Ba t s i and D . sleigh ll be tto. of -on wi ’s gro h a c t t i n Citizen w a r s S u e o i , r ow tch ity Blairg y Lisa Hildi mmun e o c m h p T y 5 b b ed wed 3:30 erfor m and be follo p m p x4 ar Appro the Ye g. singin
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Blairgowrie & Rattray Christmas Activities 2016 Check Discover Blairgowrie Website for details 26 November
Angus Cat Rescue Christmas Coffee Morning, St Catherines Centre 10am - 12pm
Note the Dates!
Christmas Fair in aid of 2006 Football Team, Town Hall, 10am to 2pm Blairgowrie & Rattray Lights Switch On Rattray 3pm, Blairgowrie 4pm. Santa’s Grotto 3.30pm to 5pm Entertainment from 2pm in the Wellmeadow
27 November
Strathmore Screen - Cafe Society at 1pm - free due to projector issue at last screening. Storks at 4pm, Bridget Jones’s Baby at 7pm, Town Hall
3 December
Meet the Maker - Cargills 3pm - 4.30pm
7 - 9 December Blairgowrie Players Panto - A Christmas Carol, Town Hall at 7pm 10 - 11 Blairgowrie Players Panto - A Christmas Carol, December Town Hall at 2pm 10 December
Lyric Choir Christmas Concert, St Catherines Church, 7pm
10 December
Fiddlers Rally - Rattray Hall, Balmoral Road, 7.15pm - call Aly Muir 01250 873602
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Blairgowrie & Rattray Christmas Activities 2016 9 December
Wisecraft Christmas Fund raiser - The Gig from 9pm
Don’t Miss Out!
10 - 22 December
Festive Fayre Store - Corner of Reform Street, hosted by Create @NEST
12 - 17 December
Santa’s Sleigh in and around the streets of Blairgowrie & Rattray
17 December
3 Tenors Christmas Carols & Classics Show, Blairgowrie Town Hall, 7pm - 11pm
18 December
Strathmore Screen - Trolls (U ) 4pm & Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them (tbc) 7pm, Town Hall
Please check the Discover Blairgowrie website for more details including: Church Services Group Activities Latest Info Remember our local Shops and Businesses are open for you - you’d be surprised at the range of items available right on your doorstep so please do pop along and SHOP LOCAL. Most shops open on the Sundays in December
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Choose us as your Co-op local cause One Voice Community Project Stay Independent Taxi Card Scheme Your support will benefit your community by Providing funding towards a local Taxi Voucher Scheme for people who may find themselves isolated due to lack of transport. The vouchers will be used towards the cost of a taxi to help get them out to the shops, cafĂŠs, groups and social visits.
One Voice Volunteer Group Association SC - SC042694 www.discoverblairgowrie.co.uk
When Members buy Co-op branded products and services, the Co-op will give 1% to a local cause. Your support can help raise more for causes in your community. Go online coop.co.uk/membership and make us your cause by March 2017. 1%of the purchase price or cost of Co-op own branded goods and services purchased by Co-op Members will be donated to local good causes as chosen from time to time by Co-op Members. Please visit coop.co.uk for further details on how this is calculated.
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Carbon Transport Initiative
production related to travel?
Can we travel without polluting the area and producing greenhouse gases?
Can we link up with similar transport projects in Perth and Dundee? and so on.
This is the question a group of people in Eastern Perthshire is looking into. Recently, along with around 38 other groups all around Scotland, Forward Coupar Angus was awarded a small grant to look at ways of reducing those bits of the carbon footprint of our local area which relate to transport. In our case the project focuses on the catchment area of Blairgowrie High School: Alyth, Blairgowrie, Coupar Angus and the surrounding area including the glens. Some of the questions we will be asking include:
The project has the support of the Community Councils in Blairgowrie and Rattray, Alyth and Coupar Angus and Bendochy and One Voice, Forward Coupar Angus and Alyth Development Trust and will be getting underway over the next month or so. The carrot being held out to Eastern Perthshire, and the other groups, is that European Regional Development Grants may be available, at least for the next 2/3 years to support any good ideas that the various groups come up with.
How to increase the number of people walking and cycling?
So, if you have any ideas about how we could reduce the carbon load of this your area, then why not contact Ian Simpson in the High Street Store, Coupar Angus (Tel 01828 626211, email calowcarbonliving@ gmail.com), One Voice at Upper Mill Street Blairgowrie (Tel 01250 871120, email onevoice@discoverblairgowrieco.uk)or Alison Bowman in Alyth (email alisonbowman63@ gmail.com).
How to improve the integration of local bus services and help them link up to travel across Scotland? What is the optimum number of electric vehicle charging points in the area and where should they be sited? Is there a place for bike hire (including electric bike) hire in this area?
You never know, if you have a great idea we may be able to raise funds for it and get it implemented.
How to best use information technology and the ‘Internet of Things’ to reduce CO2
Cllr Caroline Shiers (Scottish Conservative – Blairgowrie & Glens Ward) Writing for the Christmas Hub when we are in the October holidays always help focus on the busy period coming up. What a great summer of events in the town this year. Thank you to everyone who made them possible. Without the volunteers, the local businesses giving advertising and financial support they just wouldn’t happen.
names like Sally Magnusson and Sue Lawrence and hear them rave about their Blairgowrie experience is fantastic and bodes so well for the future of this festival. Thanks to all who contributed to the success. Jim Naughtie and I had a great chat looking at the crowded shelves of well-thumbed books in the campus library and both remarking on how great that is to see.
Recently Blairgowrie hosted the fourth Bookmark Festival. The feedback from festival goers and authors was tremendous and I feel so proud at what has been achieved in such a short period of time. To speak with household
At Bookmark I was struck when chatting to locals, by how many were in the Campus for the first time and who were impressed with the facilities, the flexible space and the way it provided all that was needed to turn it into 33
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Christmas 2016 declared not fit for use and the Girl Guides have mounted a campaign to raise funds for a new facility. This is a great initiative and one I will be doing all I can to support. I was a Brownie and a Girl Guide and my son attends Beavers and I value the contribution the organisations have made to my life. It would be great to see Blairgowrie and Rattray youngsters benefit from upgraded facilities and I would urge you give any support you can.
an event space. Jaclyn Meikle and her team pulled out all the stops to make it a success and it was noticed by all. My concern is – why are we not hosting more events like this? The campus was built as a community campus and I will be approaching officers to see what more we can do to look at publicising the facilities on offer and reviewing the pricing structure to ensure this is not a one off event. Over the past few months, I have been approached by a number of residents who are concerned about anti-social behaviour and vandalism. There have been a number of issues reported to the police and I have arranged a meeting with Police Scotland to discuss community policing as we head into the winter. It is so important that our communities are safe and that means people have to feel able to report incidents on 101 or 999 if it is an emergency. I have valued the support of the community council in highlighting these issues.
Finally, as we head for Christmas please support our local businesses and High Street. They value their local customers and will be very pleased to have your support. I hope to see you at the Christmas lights switch on which the volunteers have been planning all year. As always I can be contacted on (h) 01828 640181 (w) 01738 553990 or by email cshiers@pkc.gov.uk or via my facebook page
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can take away the headache For further information call:
Steven Boyd at ASI Outsourcing Tel: 01250 770100 www.asi-outsourcing.co.uk
PC repair Laptop repair PC running slow? Advice on all software Complete tune-up Computer set up & from only £45 installation Upgrades Custom PC design & build Network support PC system improvement Spyware removal Virus removal Wireless set up Tuition Steve Saunders tel: 01250 873014 mob: 07989 533836 email: info@microblair.co.uk web: www.microblair.co.uk Free pick up and return service
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We are a small independently run local rescue/rehoming group covering Angus, Dundee, Perthshire, Fife and beyond when needed. We provide temporary care for cats and kittens which for all sorts of reasons are in need of new loving homes. This could be down to illness/ bereavement, allergies within the household or as owners find their circumstances change so that they are no longer in a position to care for the beloved pets. Unfortunately cats which are not neutered present us with the problem of unwanted litters. We always aim where possible to encourage neutering of cats as this can prevent unnecessary heartache for the owners and also straying of pets from the family home not to mention the problem of an unwanted litter of kittens.
our biggest outlay we also have food and cat litter to purchase for the many cats we have in care. We ask for a donation of ÂŁ60 from the new owners when we rehome a cat or kitten, though as you can imagine this does not cover the majority of the outlay that each has incurred before being ready for their new homes. We receive no financial support other than that given by our loyal members and supporters who arrange many events throughout the year,. We work tirelessly to raise the funds necessary to care for the animals within the Rescue. The events include table sales, coffee mornings, car boot sales, sponsored events, medium Evenings, Quiz Nights and much more!! We are very grateful for the support we receive which is used 100% for the cats in care.
In order to be able to accommodate the numbers we have in care, we are grateful to have members who temporarily foster cats and kittens before they go on to their new loving homes. All cats and kittens that come through the Rescue are wormed, flea treated, micro chipped, vaccinated and if old enough, neutered before they are eligible for rehoming. We work closely with our professional veterinary practice to ensure that all our animals are in good health before they leave us. Whilst our vet bill is
Enquiries or further information on the work of Angus Cat Rescue can be obtained from Angus Cat Rescue FB page or by contacting Angela Smith on 07982 064765 . 35
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Local Business Contacts
DRIVING INSTRUCTORS
This is a list of businesses who support Discover Blairgowrie and are members of the local Business Association. Contact admin@discoverblairgowrie.co.uk to join.
Sue’s Driving School
Adams Law
01250-874485
ACCOUNTANTS/BOOKKEEPERS
Miller Gerrard
01250-873468
ASI Outsourcing
01250-874831
ESTATE-AGENTS/SOLICITORS
01250-770100
FLORISTS
Gillespie Inverarity & Co Ltd 01250-870718
Something Special Flowers 01250-873237
Graham Edwards Accts
01250-873465
Mark Barron CA
01250-870222
GARDEN/LANDSCAPES
S Climie Office Services
01250-798501
Gardencare & Landscapes
01250-870343
G Croll Landscapes
07949-286026
ACTIVITIES/OUTDOOR Julie Baird Pilates
07963-088112
HEALTH/COACH/COUNSELLOR
Susie Black Fitness
07914-700988
Blairgowrie Physiotherapy
01250-870062
Julie Baird
07963-088112
Susie Black Fitness
07914-700988
ARTISTS/CRAFTS Create @ NEST
07804-240861
Trevor Taylor
01250-886323
HOME/CURTAINS
WarpWeftWeave
07846-486135
Aurora Drapes
BUILDING/CONSTRUCTION A Proctor Group
HOTELS/ACCOMMODATION 01250-872261
BUS OPERATORS Stagecoach
01383-660880
CARE/CARE HOMES RESIDENTIAL Care Crew
01828-627600
Hope Park
01250-872349
01250-872376
01250-873014
01250-876666
Rosebank House B&B
01250-872912
Southlittleton Cottages
01250-870611
01250-875555
Cargills Bistro
01250-876735
The Cateran Cafe
01250-870134
The Dalmore Inn
01250-871088
Wee House of Glenshee
01250-882238
RETIREMENT PROPERTIES McCarthy & Stone
01250-875136
0800-3100311
SHOPS
DOG GROOMING Canine Cuts
Blairgowrie Holiday Park
RESTAURANTS/CAFES
DENTISTS Blair Dental Care
01250-872455
Graham Environmental
COMPUTERS/INTERNET Microblair
Angus Hotel
PEST CONTROL/FIRE/HYGIENE/DAMP PROOF
CARPETS Cunningham Carpets
07834-770458
All Things Fair
01250-872040 36
01250-874238
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Christmas 2016 SHOPS cont’d
TRAVEL/TOURISM
Blair Copy Shop
01250-873591
Rosemount Travel
01250-874627
Booklore
01250-871120
The Travel Bar
01250-870900
Cornerstone Deli
01250-798151
Kate Fleming
01250-873990
JAS Crockart & Son
01250-872056
TRADESMEN Alex Robertson Painter/Dec 07597-394057
Something Special Flowers 01250-873237 WarpWeftWeave
07846-486135
WM Coupar
01250-872436
WEB DESIGN Graphite Web Solutions
01250-873072
Riverside Venture The recent town charrette covered many aspects of Blairgowrie and Rattray and while many thoughts and suggestions were put forward one particular aspect kept turning up. This was the Riverside and the need to improve it as a local community asset and make it more attractive for visitors. A newly formed group has taken up this idea and is seeking to perform these improvements. Their aim is to release its potential for locals and visitors by improving the area visually, introducing information for the public and turning the whole riverside in to an informative and entertaining leisure area.
groups wanting to offer further visitor experiences or extreme activities. It is hoped to engage the Community to use their volunteering spirit, expertise, enthusiasm and energy to drive the project.
Blairgowrie and Rattray have long considered the River Ericht and the riverside as one of its greatest assets and there have been several proposals and reports that have sought to enhance it and turn it into an attractive, indeed exciting, leisure facility.
The whole Venture would be split into phases with each one containing achievable projects. Many ideas have been put forward for projects but the Riverside Venture group will happily welcome further input from others who may wish to take them on. The idea of phases is more to prioritise areas and although some projects within them will logically follow each other many can be performed simultaneously by individual groups.
Many of the previous proposals have been excellent but involved large amounts of work, investment and engagement with many agencies. The new Riverside Venture group seek to use a bite size chunk approach and to think along practical and achievable projects lines. Their aim is to create an attractive and visually entertaining walk up and down the accessible parts of the river Ericht. One emphasis will be to provide information, both on its wildlife and history of its industrial use, hoping to lead the way for further development by organisations or business
The whole venture, at the moment, is in its formalising stage so if you would wish to become involved please contact Brian Smith on 07788712629 or email lutonwolf89@ btinternet.com 37
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PHYSIOTHERAPY AND MASSAGE THERAPY Our Friendly Chartered Physiotherapists provide a comprehensive assessment, diagnosis and treatment to:
Treat ANY Muscle injury and Joint pain.
Treat ALL Neck and Back pain.
Rehabilitate from Fracture
Joint replacement, Stroke, Parkinsons, Falls & Mobility issues
Our fully qualified
Remedial
&
Sports Massage Therapist also offers Sports or Swedish massage to help:
Aid recovery
Relieve tired & aching muscles
Improve flexibility
Treat Sports injuries
Reduce stress
Sports profiling service available to improve performance & decrease injury in Golf, Football, Rugby & Swimming.
Improve posture
Tel: 01250 870062
www.blairgowriephysiotherapy.co.uk ● enquiries@blairgowriephysiotherapy.co.uk 1 High Street, Blairgowrie PH10 6ET
SCOTTISH SOLICITOR AND NOTARY PUBLIC YOUR TRUSTED ADVISERS PROPERTY LAW
ESTATE AGENCY
COMPANY LAW
LETTINGS & MANAGEMENT
COMMERCIAL LAW
GUARDIANSHIPS
EMPLOYMENT LAW
POWER OF ATTORNEY
WILLS & EXECUTRIES
DISPUTE RESOLUTION
CALL NOW FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Tel: 01250 874485 Mob/Legal: 07719 855856 Mob/Property: 07739 915043 Email: farah@adams-law.co.uk or david@adams-property.co.uk Visit our website at: www.adams-law.co.uk 38
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ONE FOR THE WOMENFOLK YOU KNOW THE FEELING!
Blairgowrie Messy Church Angel Trail
by Margaret Drummond Have yourself a merry little Christmas, With endless cards to write and mail. You could cut your list but the folk you’ve missed Will send you one, it never fails.
Blairgowrie Messy Church Angel Trail is well underway around the Blairgowrie shops. There are 23 angels, each with a letter attached, in the shops around Blairgowrie. The letters when arranged spell out the title of a well known Christmas carol. Look out for a poster in the shop windows which tells you that you will find an angel there. In the shop you will also find a leaflet explaining what to do. On the back of each leaflet is an invitation to a range of Christmas services in Blairgowrie Parish Church, James Street to sing this carol and many more and to share in the joy of Christmas.
Have yourself a merry little Christmas As round the shops for gifts you dash, For the chances are, though you’ve hunted far, Your family would prefer the cash. Have yourself a merry little Christmas Unpacking all the food you’ve bought, Then you realise there’s no brussels sprouts, But everyone’s glad that you forgot. Have yourself a merry little Christmas On Christmas Eve still wrapping late. But don’t panic at the sound of sleigh bells,
Enjoy the trail around the shops which ends on Saturday 26th November. Good luck in finding all 23 angels, as well as Christmas gifts for family and friends.
Just get Santa Claus to sellotape. Have yourself a merry little Christmas As you serve up the Christmas meal, Asking who wants what - just give them the lot, Then put your feet up, that’s the deal!
Blairgowrie & Rattray Access Network (BRAN)
One path, Cargill’s Way has seen attempts at improving drainage but most of the work has been mowing, strimming, lopping and general clearance with litter picking where necessary. Regular walkers tend not to drop litter as they wish to find the countryside clear of such pollution. Littering tends to be much more commonplace on the paths close to the town centre where such antisocial behaviour is all too common.
2016 saw the start of the group’s real campaign to keep our Core Path network clear of obstructions, mowed and generally in a state where walkers could enjoy the experience and views offered by our many attractive walking routes. So far there have been 46 separate work parties, of these some have involved large groups of up to 12 volunteers, many have been individual, notable Ally Donald taking our one rotary mower ‘for a walk’ as he puts it.
BRAN’s key responsibility is to maintain the local Core Path network together with sections of the Cateran Trail. The group will continue its maintenance 39
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programme through the winter when it will concentrate on keeping bushes and low tree growth in check. Prior to the start of next Spring’s growing season, the group will agree a schedule of work based on the experience gained to date. Perth and Kinross Council (Greenspace) have kindly agreed to provide some badly needed extra equipment and funding, and whilst modest in scale such help is very much appreciated.
appropriate to their individual skills and capabilities. BRAN has been very pleased to hear that PKC have been successful in recruiting a new Countryside Ranger to our area. Alan Dorman joined the Greenspace Team last week and we would like to give him a very warm welcome to our community, we wish him every success and look forward to working with him.
This will mean an extra (second) strimmer being available. Prior to next year’s season the group hopes to have purchased a second and much needed heavy duty rotary mower. By employing two mowers early in the season the job of maintenance will be made much easier. This year at times, the general growth rate outstripped the ability to keep paths mowed adequately. 2017 should be very different.
Our volunteers do a very valuable job and whilst the work content is very real all enjoy the experience with good company and more than a few laughs along the way!
BRAN has been very fortunate to retain a loyal following of volunteers since its inception in 2015 and has recruited a number of new folk who regularly offer their time. By managing the maintenance plan more effectively the weekly call for volunteers should be more focussed, it should be possible to make clear what the specific needs are in terms of work content and make it easier for helpers to offer their time
Please contact the BRAN Secretary for more information or if you would like to help, much of the work is family friendly and all are welcome to join. The Blairgowrie Advertiser carries regular updates about our work parties throughout the year. Ian Richards – Secretary ian_ richards2007@yahoo.com, 07787 317022, 01250 871122
Perth and Kinross Credit Union (PKCU) Supporting local people with ethical finance Perth and Kinross Credit Union (PKCU) offers safe, ethical savings and loans to people who live or work in Perth and Kinross. Having been running for two years, PKCU now has over 1000 members and operates an office Blairgowrie, within the Council Housing office in Leslie Street, from 10.30 to 12.30 every Thursday. What is a credit union? 40
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Christmas 2016 Credit unions are financial co-operatives owned and controlled by their members. They offer savings and loans, plus they are local, ethical and know what their members want. There are currently around 54,000 credit unions in 97 countries serving more than 186 million people. People, not profit Credit unions are not for profit organisations, so any money made is re-invested into the business or paid out in dividends to the members. The only shareholders in a credit union are the members who use its services. Euan Walker, Chair of the Board, said: “Credit unions are ethical lenders and part of our remit is financial education. We encourage savings, even at modest levels, and are then in a position to help savers with responsible loans if they need them at a later date. Everyone benefits from having some money put aside, no matter how much or how little. Having savings can allow you to work towards your financial goals and gives you peace of mind should an emergency arise.”
save. PKCU is also a member of the Association of British Credit Unions Limited (ABCUL), the leading trade organisation for credit unions in the UK. Easy and convenient
If you’re interested in investing in a local project that promotes financial responsibility and won’t lend to people at rates they can’t afford, try PKCU.
A Perth and Kinross Credit Union savings account offers you a safe, convenient way to save regularly and includes life insurance on your savings. You can open an account with as little as £1 and save as much or little as you like. You can set up a standing order, pay in cash at the branch, post a cheque or use payroll deduction if you work for an employer partner. Savings can easily be withdrawn by cheque or bank transfer.
Employer partners Employer partners can arrange for their employees to save with PKCU directly from their salaries. Consider helping to offer your staff financial security and demonstrating corporate social responsibility by joining the employer partner scheme.
Want to find out more? For more information or to join, please call at the PKCU office, either in the Council office at Leslie Street, Blairgowrie between 10.30 and 12.30 on a Thursday or at 282 High Street, Perth, Monday to Friday from 10am to 2.30pm. Alternatively telephone any time in office hours on 01738 624872 or email info@pkcu. org.uk
Safe and secure Perth and Kinross Credit Union has been through a thorough and extensive registration process with the Prudential Regulation Authority and Financial Conduct Authority. It is a member of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme and the Financial Ombudsman Service, making it a secure way to
It’s Snow Joke What do Santa’s elves use to mend broken toys? 41
Answer: Super Igloo
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Christmas 2016 Trek
Winter Skills
Camp Expeditions
Abseil Climb
Bronze, Silver and Gold National Navigation Awards
H I L L & M O U N TA I N SKILLS SCHEME
Hill and Mountain Skills
Professional training and guiding to national standards
Mobile climbing wall Ideal for parties, events, galas, shows and more
NSC Outdoor Adventures 01828 640763
www.nscoutdooradventures.com
David Scott (Blairgowrie) Ltd FUNERAL DIRECTORS AND MONUMENTAL AGENTS 65 HIGH STREET, BLAIRGOWRIE PERTHSHIRE, PH10 6DF Telephone (01250) 876400 Fax (01250) 870064 email: enquiries@dscottfunerals.co.uk
Also at 7 Toutie Street, Alyth, PH11 8BP Tel: (01828) 633433
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Pete Wishart MSP
state pension age for women in line with the age for men over two decades, but the 2011 Pensions Act rapidly accelerated the original timetable and the 2.6 million women affected by the changes – born in the 1950s – were not informed.
All the best for the festive season! I would like to urge sixteen and seventeen year-olds to ensure they are registered to vote. They are now eligible to vote in Scottish elections, including the local government elections taking place on 4 May 2017. Engagement by young people in the political process has been extremely high since the 2014 Independence Referendum and the 2016 Scottish Parliament elections.
To make such major changes to these pensions with such short notice is totally unacceptable and ignores the years of planning and contribution that require to go into pension planning. No-one is arguing against the equalisation of the State Pension Age, however these women have paid National Insurance contributions and are due their pension – it is not a benefit, but a contract that the UK Government has broken.
For the first time, sixteen and seventeen year-olds will be able to cast their votes in the council elections, but it’s important that they ensure they are on the electoral register. It is important that everyone, including young people, make sure their voice is heard next May. If people are unsure whether they are registered or information can be found at: http://www.tayside-vjb.gov.uk/pages/ regtovote.html
The Government must do the right thing and listen to the voices of all the WASPI women. By using the surplus in the National Insurance Fund for transitional measures the Government can afford to provide relief and dignity in retirement for millions of women.
I recently joined with my MP colleagues to deliver the Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaign petition to Westminster. The petition calls on the UK Government to take immediate action to help the millions of women whose retirement plans have been shattered by rapid increases to the State Pension Age.
If any constituents need to contact me, I can be reached at 17-19 Leslie Street, Blairgowrie, PH10 6AH, on 01250 876 576 or at pete.wishart.mp@parliament.uk
The 1995 Pensions Act legislated to bring the
Blairgowrie Lyric Choir-Swedish Visitors
local history with a Gaelic song or two thrown in! The visitors were also welcomed by the owners in to Ardblair and Newton Castles.
From 5th -8th May this year Blairgowrie Lyric Choir was delighted to welcome Cantus Koren from Stockholm , Sweden.
On Thursday 5th May both Choirs met for the first time for their only joint practice before performing in Blairgowrie Town Hall on the Friday evening and Alyth Church on the Saturday.
Thirty Swedes, nineteen of whom were Choir members, enjoyed the hospitality of several Lyric members, Kristen Barrett and the Angus Hotel.
Conductors Lizzie Lloyd and Vera Belin took the combined Choirs through their paces and soon any anxieties regarding the shared songs dissipated as the voices blended smoothly together. The Lyric pieces were ably accompanied on keyboard by Kathleen
During their short stay the Cantus members made visits to castles and distilleries. Many of them enjoyed a local walk led by Kristin and enhanced by John Howie’s knowledge of 43
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Christmas 2016 assume that some of our pronunciations may have been less precise than hers! Following the concert on Friday night the Swedish guests joined with Lyric members and friends for a ceilidh, where Laurence Blair-Oliphant demonstrated how to make a kilt and plaid and brought along some fearsome Scottish battle weapons.
Campbell. Large audiences at both venues were treated to a very varied programme which offered something for everyone. At the lighter end of the scale were selections from The Sound of Music and from Abba; a gentle arrangement of Simple Gifts which is based on an old Shaker hymn tune; a choral arrangement of You Raise Me Up, a song popularised by Westlife and the well- known Rhythm of Life from Sweet Charity.
Flora MacGregor delighted everyone with her Highland dancing as did Todd Bannerman with his bagpipe playing. Dances and songs from both countries were much enjoyed, as were Betty’s stovies, plus oatcakes, cheese and wine provided by the Choir. Cantus kindly served up delicious Swedish cheeses and rye breads brought for the occasion.
At the opposite end of the scale was a rendition of Vivaldi’s Gloria and, in between these extremes, were four songs from A Tapestry of Songs from the British Isles, Adiemus by Karl Jenkins, who is justifiably one of our most popular living composers; The Seal Lullaby, music that was written by Eric Whitacre for a film that failed to happen but which stands beautifully on its own as a gentle lullaby; and This is the Day, a song composed by John Rutter for the wedding of HRH Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton.
Although the Lyric Choir will not be visiting Stockholm in the near future, all agreed it had been a happy and successful cultural experience. It is certain that friendships and contacts made will continue for a long time . For some time now, the Lyric Choir has been ladies only, singing mostly three part arrangements of songs. For these concerts, some of the music was in four parts - soprano, alto, tenor, and bass - thus exploiting the relatively recent return of men’s voices to the Choir. The present male contingent is small, but will hopefully grow in time.
In addition, we joined our Swedish friends in a performance of En Sommarafton (One Summer Evening) by the 19th century Swedish composer Adolf Fredrik Lindblad. Lindblad was a friend of Felix Mendelssohn, and reportedly collaborated with the famous Swedish soprano Jenny Lind. It is fair to
The Choir meets on Tuesday evenings from 7-9pm in Rattray Hall, Balmoral Road. Anyone interested in joining please contact Janet on 01250872682, janetscoyle@ btinternet.com or any Choir member.
It’s Snow Joke Why is Rudolph the Reindeer happy to pull Santa’s Sleigh? Answer: Because he doesn’t want to get the sack. 44
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Product/Service Information Place text here that introduces your organization and describes your specific products or services. This text should be brief and should entice the reader to want to know more about the goods or services you offer.
Your Organization
Phone: 555-555-5555 Fax: 555-555-5555 E-mail: someone@example.com
Your business tag line here.
CRIGHTONS CYCLES
New & Used Cycle Sales Repairs Servicing Parts & Accessories
Extensive range of bikes from trikes and scooters to Electric Bikes
TAYSTFUL
CHRISTMAS ORDERS NOW BEING TAKEN Gift Vouchers, Artisan Chocolates, Courses and Sweet Treats Tel: : 079 79 79 19 55
87 Perth Street, Blairgowrie PH10 6DT Tel. 01250 874447
www.crightonscycles.co.uk
www.taystful.co.uk
Follow us on facebook
email: shona@taystful.co.uk 45
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BLAIRGOWRIE, RATTRAY AND DISTRICT GENEALOGY CENTRE
the left arm and left leg at the thigh broken and that the unfortunate man was much cut and bruised, and was suffering from internal injuries. Everything possible was done for the sufferer, who lingered on in great pain till early yesterday morning’.
An e mail enquiry to the Genealogy Centre from a descendant of John Duncan led us to research his Family History. This is what we found (permission for the publication of this article has been given by John’s descendant).
John was 55 when he died, the loss of the main breadwinner would have hit his family hard. In 1888 his widow Barbara and some of their children decided to emigrate to America. Daughters Jane and Catherine remained in Scotland. Catherine lived at 1 Bankhead until she died in 1933 aged 84.
John had worked as a ploughman and gardener, and lived with his wife and family at Balcairn Cottage. They moved to Blairgowrie to get work in the mills, no doubt hoping for a better life. They first lived at Wylies Land in Jessie Street, and later at 1 Athole Street. John was employed at Erichtside Works. In the 1870s this mill employed more than 700 workers in the manufacture of: flax, tow, and jute, and all manufacturing processes were carried out on the premises. Two of John’s daughters, Catherine and Mary Ann, were also mill workers.
Sadly the Mills saw many accidents, for more newspaper reports see the display board in the Genealogy Centre. HAVE YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT YOUR FAMILY HISTORY? The Genealogy Centre Volunteers at Blairgowrie Library can help.
The “Dundee Courier” of July 1881 carried this report of a Fatal Accident in a Blairgowrie Mill.
Come in and see us any Tues, Weds or Thurs from 2.00 to 4.00pm. If these hours do not suit, an appointment for Friday or Saturday can easily be arranged.
‘On Wednesday afternoon a mechanic named John Duncan employed at Erichtside Works, while working at the elevator suddenly lost his footing and fell down, a distance of 30 feet. Several of his fellow workers at once rushed to his aid, when it was found he was very severely injured, no time was lost in getting him conveyed home and medical aid procured’. Dr Lunan, on arrival found
CONTACT US - by email at blairgowrielibrary@culturepk.org.uk or blairgowriegenealogy@hotmail.co.uk . Or by telephone on 01250 871305 If you can spare 2 hours a week, come and join us as a Volunteer. Please send us your contact details, or come in and see us.
It’s Snow Joke Do you know what was wrong with the puppy who was taken to the Vet because it chewed up all the Christmas Decoorations?
Howe’s Carpets & Interiors Established 1871 We sell carpets, vinyl, curtains and blinds.
Answer: It was suffering from tinselitis
Come in for professional advice and browse through our large selection of samples available to take home We measure, supply and fit
Do you know why Mary Christmas was stopped by the Police while getting a driving lesson?
To get your FREE quotation call 01250 872361 Or e-mail shop@jjhowe.co.uk
FREE UNDERLAY WITH ALL HESSIAN BACKED CARPETS
Answer: Because she had NOEL plates
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MEMBERSHIP DRIVE! Your Timebank Needs you!
hanging; decluttering and lots more.
We are actively seeking new members for the Timebank and we would be delighted if you got in touch for more information. Timebanking is an easy way of getting involved locally – and the beauty of it is that you can give as little or as much of your time as you want. It’s all about giving AND receiving so don’t forget that you can use it for things that you want or need, as well as offering your skills and interests. Everyone has skills which could be beneficial to someone else. It could be teaching a musical instrument, taking someone for a coffee, showing how to crochet – anything at all.
We have a drop in on the SECOND Friday of every Month at SCYD, Wellmeadow House, Gas Brae, Blairgowrie and the LAST Friday of every month at Community Connect @Rattray, both from 10am – 11.30am Our crafting group, Crafty Folk meets on the third Thursday of the month at the Wellmeadow Café from 2.00 to 3.30. Everyone is welcome. Just come along and bring your craft project and if you don’t have one we can help you start something. We also run a Whist group so if playing cards are your thing, come along to The Lifeplus Centre on William Street (formerly the YWCA Hall) on the SECOND Wednesday of every month from 2-4pm.
Blair and Rattray Time Bank members are the best! To date, our members have exchanged 760 hours. That’s 760 hours, (or more than a month) of folk doing things for other people. Examples of exchanges include doing shopping; giving lifts; companionship; gardening; bits of DIY; dog walking; curtain
Get in touch by emailing us at bandrtimebank@gmail.com or phone the brokers on 07761233418 (Ivy) and 07511169041 (Joanne)
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Perth Citizens Advice Bureau: Benefits Advice in Libraries (BAIL): Benefits specialist Sarah MacLean is running a series of one to one benefit advice sessions at Blairgowrie Library, 46A Leslie Street Blairgowrie. Sarah can: • Run benefit entitlement checks • assist with completing applications (including online applications) • Provide advice can guidance on challenging sanctions • Provide advice and guidance in instances where applications have either been unsuccessful or awarded at a lower rate than expected. • Sarah also seeks to maximise client income by ensuring that they are aware of all forms of support to which they may be entitled, i.e. discounts for heating. This service is by appointment only: To make an appointment please call 01738 450599. In keeping with the principles of CAB, all advice provided by Outreach services is free, confidential, impartial, independent and empowering. Limited company registered in Scotland; registered office 7 Atholl Crescent, Perth, PH1 5NG. Registration number 153915; charity number SC003259
A Bespoke drapes / curtains, blinds & soft furnishings Created by Lara For beautiful homes. www.auroradrapes.co.uk
07834770458 / 07934048226
Lara@auroradrapes.co.uk Contact us for professionally handsewn draperies, blinds & soft furnishings - superior quality using traditional & modern methods. All projects considered.
Follow & like us on social media.
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J & J HOWE 30 Reform St. Blairgowrie Open Monday – Friday 8 – 5 Saturday 9 – 1 Still continuing our high quality
REMOVALS and STORAGE Complete removal service Local and Long distance Specialist to the Islands Large containerized storage warehouse Get free quote for your removal
AUCTIONS and VALUATIONS Auction sale on Mondays 6pm Goods on view from 2pm day of sale Also Saturday 2 – 4 Office open Tues and Wed 8.30 – 4 See weekly list and auction dates on line
VISIT OUR INTERIOR SHOP We sell and fit carpets, cushion floor, blinds and curtains For further details of all these services phone 01250 872361 or email matt@jjhowe.co.uk www.jjhowe.co.uk
Hope Park House is a well established Care Home, set in beautiful landscaped grounds in Blairgowrie. Run by a charitable trust, we specialise in residential and respite care for older people with dementia and we aim to support our residents to lead fulfilling lives within the Home and through the wider community. Our new modern extension allows us to make positive contributions to the local community by offering a flexible Day Care Service 7 days a week. Day Care at Hope Park. Morning tea/coffee is served when you arrive, after which we start our daily activity programme. We have a dedicated room for activities and enjoy Newspaper Groups, Reminiscence Groups, Arts and Crafts, Quizzes, Bus Outings, Baking and one of our most popular activities – Music and Singing. With a full care team we also offer assisted bathing or showering, with hairdressing facilities on a Wednesday.
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We serve lunch at around 1pm and offer nutritious home cooked food, with a choice of menu. After lunch you can relax and take it easy or join the afternoon activity groups. Coffee/tea is served at around 3pm and our minibus can take you home, if you live locally, at a time that suits you. If you are interested or need more information about our Care Home, Respite or Day Care Services, please contact Pamela Wilkie on 01250 872349. Email care@ hopeparkhouse.com Hope Park Trust would like to hear from anyone who would be interested in joining the Committee.Please contact John Jennings on 01738 475564 (office hours) or email jjennings@pkc.gov.uk for information.
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Murdo Fraser MSP
of self-regulation is falling way below of what we should expect. In appealing your charge directly to the operator, there is a clear conflict of interest and the code of conduct that operators work to is entirely voluntary, leaving it open to significant abuses.
I would like to wish all readers of the Hub a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. As we enter the festive season retailers across Perth and Kinross will look to the season of goodwill to bring more shoppers to high streets across the region. Christmas shopping can help make or break a retailers year but there are several other issues that are holding back retail profitability. High business rates are crippling town centre business and are in urgent need of review. Since 2007 rates have increased by 42% with many town centre businesses feeling the pinch of these hikes. In addition to the burden of higher rates many small to medium sized firms are being hit by the large business supplement, which taxes firms based on their shop floor size rather than financial footprint. The combination of these two taxes is resulting in reduced profitability for independent retailers and unless the Scottish Government reverses tack more small businesses will become dependent on the Christmas shopping season to fill up their order books.
On top of this private operators use questionable tactics to elicit payment from drivers. Fines from private parking companies are packaged to look as though they have the same legal standing as those from local authorities. They are not. Third party debt collectors are often appointed to extract revenue, with many citing the Parking Eye vs Beavis case despite there being no legal precedent north of the border. The threat of court action coupled with a barrage of intimidating letters often results in older and more vulnerable residents coughing up, even if they haven’t broken the rules. The relationship between parkers and providers is at an all time low.
Another issue that constricts town centre growth is the availability of parking spaces. Private parking companies operating in town centres are a vital provider of spaces but recent issues, particularly in Perth, have shown that their relationship with motorists is not working.
What I want is a more rigorous form of regulation. I am calling on the Scottish Government to enforce a standard set of guidelines that operators must stick to as well as a wholly independent statutory appeals service. The implementation of these policies would allow parkers to regain trust in the system and would give both motorists and providers a clear set of responsibilities that they must stick to.
Hard to interpret charging regimes, poor signage, and puzzle-like meters are confusing motorists and resulting in a significant number of fines being handed out. Extracting revenue from fines would appear to be more important than providing the best possible customer experience.
As ever I welcome the feedback from constituents and can be contacted at the Control Tower, Perth Airport, Scone, called on 01738 553990, or emailed at murdo.fraser. msp@parliament.scot
For motorists who have been issued an incorrect fine and want to challenge it there is no independent appeals process. This is the crux of current problems. The existing system
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Enterprise Mentoring Support in Eastern Perthshire Thanks to funding from the Rural Perth & Kinross Leader programme, GrowBiz is able to expand its successful Mentoring Support scheme for Eastern Perthshire, now in partnership with the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce. We would like to welcome everyone who is interested in finding out what enterprise mentoring is all about. At an information session on Tuesday 29th November 2016, from 6-8.30 pm at Cargill’s Restaurant, Blairgowrie, you will have the opportunity to hear more about mentoring and how it has already helped businesses in East Perthshire. We will have some of our existing mentors and mentees on hand to answer questions and tell you about their experience. This event will also provide an opportunity for you to meet and chat with other local business people, and to share your experience knowledge and ideas about how to further develop enterprise mentoring support in the area. Mentoring is a two way partnership for the purpose of mutual learning and development. A mentor is generally someone who is a little more experienced in an area where the mentee wishes to develop; in this case running a business. They act as a sounding board for ideas, provide an objective perspective on the mentee’s business or business ideas and provide friendly unbiased support and guidance. Mentoring is definitely a two way process with mentors gaining as much as mentees. Mentors first take part in a training course, which takes place over 2 evenings or 2 half days, and does not focus on business skills, but on the interpersonal skills required to mentor someone else effectively ; skills which can be applied to every part of your professional and personal life. If you would like to find out more please contact us at connect@growbiz.co.uk.
GRANNY PAT’S WINTER RECIPE Mum’s Irish Brack My mother-in-law gave me this recipe in 1969; It has sustained us during many selfcatering holidays down the years! The cup measurements in this recipe are British teacups not standard American cups. You will need: 350g dried fruit (I include cherries, mixed peel and stem ginger as well as currants etc..) 1 cupful of brown sugar Soak the above in 1 cupful of cold tea overnight. Next morning: Add 2 cupsful of SR flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder and one well beaten egg. Mix well and pour into a well-greased loaf tin. Bake for approximately 2 hours in a medium oven (130 degrees fan). Take out and cool, leave at least one day before slicing thinly and spreading with butter. This tea loaf keeps well. 51
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Isolation and Transport Group Update This group of professional people and volunteers continues to work to help to provide community transport for those isolated at home. A questionnaire was sent out to all households in Blairgowrie and Rattray who receive this magazine in summer this year. Isolation and its consequences can lead to early dementia and /or depression. Tackling this is a priority for Government and the Health and Social care agenda.
One Voice Volunteer Group Association is seeking funding from the NHSTayside Community Innovation Fund for the means to set up a pilot scheme, have it evaluated and then further funds sought to sustain it.
The group most affected by this are the elderly though not exclusively so. Difficulty with transport to get to church, to appointments, group meetings, meeting friends, going to places of interest and general socialising activities are some of the reasons given for seeking help. These people cannot confidently use bus or train services – which may be at a distance and their physical and mental frailty prohibits the use of public transport.
Further information can be obtained by contacting Dr J Shaw, One Voice Office 13 Upper Mill Street Blairgowrie PH10 6AG or onevoice@discoverblairgowrie.co.uk
Thanks so far to: A Proctors Ltd Miller Gerrard Stagecoach Tescos Co-op Let us know if your business would like to contribute - email admin@ discoaverblairgowrie.co.uk
Over 40 replies were received and these supported our view that help was needed to tackle this problem. People just didn’t like asking for help from friends, family or neighbours. They wished to remain independent. We have explored how other areas are tackling this problem. The conference in Dunkeld recently confirmed that projects could be either big or small but each area would be different and find their own solutions. We have written to businesses and have been encouraged by the support from Stagecoach, A Proctor Group, and John Hart from Miller Gerard. Our local Co-operative stores have selected this cause as one of their charities for the next six months (see poster in this mag) and Tesco Stores are proposing a fundraising raffle.
Discover Blairgowrie www.discoverblairgowrie.co.uk
Taste, Shop, Play, Create, Stay & Discover Blairgowrie
“Refreshingly Local”
One Voice Volunteer Group
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The Ericht Trust Update The Ericht Trust AGM was held on Monday 10th October in the Royal Hotel. Ian Gordon (Chair) gave his report, which was mainly an account of our endeavours and efforts to develop a Cultural and Heritage Centre for this community. Nearly 5 years and over 3,000 hours of voluntary work to say nothing of the £60,000 raised and spent in Business plans, surveys and costing has been ignored by Perth and Kinross Council. They have chosen a development company, Corryard, as the preferred bidder. Their reasons were entirely commercial.
proposed from the floor. After the formal proceedings the Chairman opened the discussion about the future of the Trust. It was agreed that Blairgowrie and Rattray needed a Development Trust for future projects arising from the Charrette. It is also possible that some funds may be released from Wind farm revenues in the future and this can only be paid into a body such as a development trust.
A full account of this was published in the last edition of the Hub Magazine. Malcolm Davidson, Company Secretary then gave a financial report for the year up till April 2016.
The Ericht Trust will continue to work closely with One Voice Volunteer Association and Blairgowrie and Rattray Community Council.
There followed a re-election of two of the Trustees – Jessie Shaw and Mike Stevenson. There were no new trustees
Safer Community Wardens - Safer Community Team
environmental awareness, project a positive image and learn that community involvement and good conduct brings respect and recognition from others and the community itself.
Junior Wardens Project The Junior Warden Project was first introduced in September 2007. The main aim of the project is to educate children between the ages of 9 and 11 years old on anti- social behaviour and the impact it can have on the local area.
The project is provided in a fun and safe environment and during the course an understanding and trust is built on the work of the emergency services and other agencies.
It aims to increase the children’s knowledge on the duties of a Community Warden and highlights the steps the children can take to resolve this problem and take pride in their community, making it a safer, cleaner, and better place to live.
In addition the participants gain more confidence in their own abilities providing them with more social skills to deal with their peers and other temptations. The project consists of 6 visits –
The Vision statement of the Junior Warden Project reads: -
1. Environmental
Junior Community Wardens are a group whose purpose is to take a positive outlook working within their community, working together to develop social and communications skills, promote
3. First Aid
2. Fire Safety 4. Black Watch Museum (history of the Black Watch) 5. Patrol (Safer Community Warden) 53
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Christmas 2016 A. During our visit to the local Fire Station we learnt how quickly fire can destroy our homes and how important it is to switch off and unplug things as well as other things we need to be aware off.
6. Presentation The participants are chosen after filing an application form; parents receive permission forms for all activities and a time table of events.
Q. What did you find out when you went out and about in the local area?
The successful participants also receive baseball caps, note books, a workbook and a bag. On completion of the course they receive a book token, a certificate and one will receive a further book token for the best work book submitted.
A. How important it is to recycle litter. When we visited our local Recycling Centre we saw what happens to the items we do recycle and how they can be used in other ways in the future.
The project aims to promote the 4 R’s
Another thing we looked at is how vandalism can affect us all. For example, the damaged toilets in Davie Park, and graffiti in various places throughout the town.
• Respect your community • Respect for others • Responsibility for your own actions • These lead to Respect from Others
Q. What did you do during the First Aid session?
The project is an educational and fun course and is very well received by participants and schools. It also gives participants more social and communications skills enabling them to be more confident and respectful to others and their community.
A. We learnt about the importance of CPR and how to do this as it could help save a life. Visiting Scone Airfield to see the Rescue Helicopter and be told about the work it does was very interesting too. Sitting inside the helicopter was amazing.
End of Junior Wardens Statement from PKC
Q. Do you think we could do more, both as adults and children, to help make our local area a better place to live?
RATTRAY PRIMARY SCHOOL AND ITS INVOLVEMENT WITH THE JUNIOR WARDEN PROJECT
A. Yes, we need more recycling bins to put our litter in. Having a water fountain in Davie Park for instance could cut down on the amount of plastic bottles of water we need to take with us when we go to play there. CCTV cameras would be good to have in places like Davie Park as well so that we can find out who are doing things that are not good, and affecting us all. Having a special wall where people can paint and draw could help as well instead of doing Graffiti on places and buildings. Local Watch Group - we could report to on bad stuff we see happening.
Recently I was invited to meet with the children at Rattray Primary School (now P7’s) involved in the Junior Warden Project ending in June this year. The 10 children, who were chosen to take part, became overall winners after competing against 10 other Primary School Teams throughout the PKC area. A Shield had been presented to them at the end of the project, something to be very proud of indeed. My plan when we met was to hold a question and answer session on behalf of the Hub Magazine Team. Initially the children were hesitant, but soon hands were going up throughout the classroom with the children eager to share their experiences and talk about what they had learnt.
At the end of my visit I was very impressed by what I was hearing from the children. The project had certainly had an impact and they had put forward many good ideas. I promised I would take these ideas forward. All comments have since been passed on to
Q. What part of the Course did you find most interesting? 54
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say and to your teachers too.
All children need to be listened too, as after all, they are our future and we want the best for them.
Thanks also to Perth and Kinross Council’s Community Warden Team for their input in helping me complete this article.
Many thanks Rattray School P7 pupils for allowing me time to listen to what you had to
Well done children, a great achievement.
OUR LOCAL ROYAL MAIL SERVICES
a better service to our customers.
In the lead up to Xmas I thought that it would be useful to find out more in relation to this valuable service and have been in email contact with our local Manager Nicola Sawers.
This year we have been celebrating 500 years of postal services, which is an exciting milestone. Right now we are focussed on Christmas, our busiest time of the year where our mail volumes more than double
Although this has been a different approach than face to face interviews, it has proved a useful way to ask questions and receive answers.
2. What current work force is there in the Blairgowrie and Rattray area?
Barbara Lynch (Hub Magazine Volunteer)
We have 36 staff including the manager, with nine female staff in our office including the Delivery Office Manager.
1. Can you tell us a little about the Royal Mail Service, both nationally and locally?
3. What area is covered by our local office?
Royal Mail is the only postal operator which delivers to every address in the UK, six days a week. Whether you are posting to Lands’ End, John O Groats or anywhere in between, a first class stamp will get your letter there the next day. We know that having fixed prices regardless of where in the UK we are delivering is especially important to our rural customers, in places like Blairgowrie and Rattray.
All PH10 – 13 postal addresses and this covers 11,000 delivery points. 4. What work is involved at Blairgowrie and Rattray’s Royal Mail Depot and how has it changed in recent years? Our staff sort, prepare and deliver all the mail for the area. The main difference now is that it is, “Sequenced” so there is less manual work involved. The introduction of a PDA system means that our customers get notification of parcels coming and another when delivery has been complete. Parcel volumes have certainly increased due to the
We have been transforming and investing in our business in recent years, a big part of which is technology investments. This makes life easier for our posties and allows us to give
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Christmas 2016 We would be grateful if householders could look at their own access and egress to their properties. If they find any of the problems and hazards mentioned above it would help our delivery staff greatly if these problems can be reduced in some way so that our staff can offer the best possible service. We would also ask customers to make sure that their dogs are secure when the postie calls.
rise in online shopping. 5. What are the main hazards encountered by the local Royal Mail Staff? Dogs are a huge problem, if they are out in the garden when we are delivering and also dogs being let out when we ring the doorbell. Hazards such as loose paving, overgrown shrubs over paths and doorways are also difficult. During the winter months the additional hazards of snow and ice can make things very difficult indeed for our post men and women. In rural areas when we need to deliver to farms or houses, with longer drives which have potholes and uneven surfaces, these homes can take longer to reach and make it more difficult to deliver, sometimes causing damage to our delivery vans.
From everyone at Royal Mail we wish all of our customers a very Merry Christmas. We are looking forward to delivering all of your cards and presents (please remember to post early and to use a postcode!) The Hub Magazine wishes to thank Royal Mail employees for this invaluable input and wish a very Happy and Safe Festive season to you all.
6. What can we the public do to help reduce those problems and issues?
Barbara Lynch (Hub magazine volunteer)
Blairgowrie Rotary Club A busy autumn season for the club has had one major highlight—the club’s major financial support for Bookmark, sponsoring the entire big-name programme for Saturday October 8 in the three-day event, which continues to build upon its success and is preparing for another wellattended weekend in 2017.
Handy and, in the lead-up to the Festive Season, Scrooge. The club has also taken over a popular annual major classic car event, the next one being held in the spring of 2017, details of which are to appear in the press in due course. Organising the event will prove a major task but a club sub-committee is already hard at work on preparations for what should prove a major fund-raiser for the club’s benevolent fund, which has over the years donated thousands of pounds to worthy causes large and small, both locally and in the wider world.
The club’s autumn season has also seen several interesting and noted speakers addressing its weekly meetings, covering a wide and fascinating range of topics. President John Gray and other members will attend the annual Remembrance Day service at the Wellmeadow and lay a wreath. Our members have also been involved in The Gavel competition, an entertaining and nottoo-serious contest of indoor games between the many Rotary clubs in Area 1010, which covers a large area of Scotland including Blairgowrie.
The club is involved in many other fundraising efforts and events, including its everpopular golf foursome tourney held every year at Rosemount Golf Club. Next autumn the Blairgowrie club will be celebrating its 70th anniversary with a grand Charter Dinner on November 17, 2017, which promises to be a truly memorable occasion.
Other social events include monthly winetasting evenings at the homes of club members and two forthcoming outings to Pitlochry Festival Theatre, to enjoy Para 56
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The club meets every Wednesday at 6pm at the Royal Hotel and new members are always welcome. Please contact Secretary Liz Mason at 01250870578 or email liz.mason2@btopenworld.com for any enquiries. The Blair in Bloom committee has had a very successful summer. We were awarded a Gold Medal, and a certificate for our Involvement with Youth in the Take a Pride in Perthshire competition. We also won a Silver Gilt Medal in the Beautiful Scotland competition. Thank you to all the businesses who supported us and the volunteers who helped us carry out all the work needed to make sure the town was up to standard. Now we have to plan how we can improve for next year!! We received a donation of £600 from McCarthy & Stone which will be used to update Coronation Corner and will also be holding a fund raising Coffee Morning in the Town Hall on 19 November from 10-12 o’clock. We are holding our prizegiving for our Garden and Photographic competition entrants in St Catharine’s Hall on 16th November. We will be planting more crocus corms in Elm Row and in the Rotary Bed in the Wellmeadow with members of Rotary International. The purple crocuses, which will bloom in the Spring, are the symbol of Rotary’s work to eradicate polio throughout the world. We have a great bunch of volunteers but are always looking for more - so if you, your business or your organisation would like to help us it would be very much appreciated. If you can even spare a few hours occasionally please get in touch. Helen McCann Chairman Tel 01250 874000 Email blairinbloom@aol.com
LADIES HOCKEY TEAM ENJOY NEW STRIPS
October and despite a loss of 1-0, the ladies looked strong with some excellent passing and plenty pressure against the away team.
Blairgowrie ladies hockey club have had a promising start to the season and have been showing off their new strips at their most recent match against Brechin.
The goal from Brechin came at a time the team were outnumbered in the circle and despite some excellent saves from standin and first time goalie Claire Galloway throughout the match, Brechin were leading
The team played a home match at the North Inch Community Campus on Saturday 29 57
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the match in the first half. The team had some great chances to score and hit the post more than once, but were unable to get past the goalie to even the score. Blairgowrie were also donning their new strips for the season, which were produced by Discovery Teamwear and have been sponsored by local bus company Stagecoach East Scotland, and Graham Pest Control of Blairgowrie.
weekends with home games at the North Inch Community Campus in Perth, in the absence of a suitable full sized pitch in Blairgowrie. The team are always keen to welcome new players of any age and ability to come along and join in, so if you’re interested, come along to the training sessions or contact the team for more information via their facebook page at facebook.com/blairgowriehockeyclub.
Blairgowrie ladies hockey team play in the Midlands League division 1 and train on Monday evenings from 7-8.30pm at the MUGA pitch at the Blairgowrie Community Campus. Matches are played at the
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Cargill’s Bistro Blairgowrie
Call 01250 876735
Lower Mill Street, Riverside, PH10 6AQ www.cargillsbistro.com Open Wednesday—Sunday 10.30—last orders 9pm
Sunday 3rd December 3pm—4.30pm “Meet the Maker Local Food & Drink” Tastings and chance to buy Christmas gifts
A Year in the Life of Discover Blairgowrie, One Voice and the forum Here are some of the things we have achieved this year:
ou ll a h
e
ed s
Help
se in
Found so
meone a
!
ray Ratt
rdener and house sitter
er, ga
Found a window clean
Tackled local iss ues with Oakbank the BRC Road, th Cs e Char re tte and th uch as e Traffic Lights Produced this m agazine for 3 years now!
bed for th
e night!
yclng athmore C tr S d e lp e g H nd fundin Network fi h the roug a! h T ep ali ustr f ‘Pe py o ent to A o c a nd s ced Sour ’ book a e Hedg
Helped the NHS tackle isolation and so far raised £1,100 for the Community
mas r Christ und o f t s ju is not ey to f A puppy ed enough mon e town! th is a f we’ve r og on behalf o D e id a Gu
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You te Y t lll us w ere wh r
We’l’ll te W t lll y u how yo At the all-new stagecoachbus.com you can plan and save your journeys, find the nearest bus stop to you – and even see how long it will take to walk to it.
stagecoachbus.com T e new place to begin you Th y r journ r ey