the
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Ladies’ Lunch Rocks! A wonderful afternoon was had by all on Sunday 29th April in Strathyre Village Hall where Strathyre hosted its first Ladies’ Lunch. Read all about it on page 4!
The Men’s Team
The Most Spirited Boat
The Great Loch Earn Boat Race The Achray House Hotel extends a HUGE thank you to everyone who participated in the 2018 race. We hope the winners enjoy their prizes from Strathearn Distillers! Weather conditions on the day were excellent, with the loch almost flat for most of the race. We had a staggered start with the gents leaving fifteen minutes after the ladies’ boats. The ladies provided an exciting, nailbiting finish, with their boats all finishing fairly close to each other. See page 6!
Go Katy!
The Voice of Balquhidder, Lochearnhead, Strathyre & St Fillans • JUNE 2018
Editor’s Bit Good news for this month is that we have a surfeit of articles and photos! You’ll have to read it all carefully to find your favourite bit. Many thanks to Susan Stuart at The Four Seasons who has offered a wonderful prize of Sunday Brunch for Two for the best new Book Review or “A Day in the Life Of” article over the next few months - so hopefully that will inspire some great contributions and an impartial judging panel will deliberate! Balquhidder offers an open invitation to all the villages to come and join us in celebrating the Village Hall’s 20th birthday, in the (hopefully) long and sunny evening of Midsummer. We would be particularly interested in any stories or photos of events over the last twenty years; I am sure there are many out there! Enjoy the bluebells. Does anyone know any poems which do justice to these fantastic flower displays (in my mind, far superior to daffodils)? JJ
Balquhidder News
Ceilidh and Hog Roast Midsu mmer Dance Party
BALQUHIDDER, LOCHEARNHEAD & STRATHYRE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
Annual Show
This year’s show will be held on the
1st September 2018 in
Balquhidder Village Hall 2 - 4pm
Schedules are now available at Strathyre and Lochearnhead Village Shops.
Get Growing - Get Making - Get Baking!
•• All competitors must complete an entry form •• Completed entries must accompany all exhibits on the day or the evening before •• or you can hand your entries in to either Strathyre Village Shop or Lochearnhead Village Shop •• Enter as many classes as you like for £2.50 (no entry fee in Children’s classes) •• The Hall will be open to receive exhibits from 6.30pm to 8.30pm on the evening prior to the Show and from 8.30am to 10am on the day of the Show. Judging will commence at 10.30am on the Day Cream Tea and Refreshments DONATIONS OF PLANTS FOR A SALES TABLE WOULD BE APPRECIATED! Competitors Free Entry
Extra hands very welcome - we are a very small team - can you help? Could you bake scones for the cream teas or help serve? please call Linda on 01877 384315
Watch out for more information in July’s Villagers 2
to celebrate the 20th Birthday of Balquhidder Hall
Saturday 23rd June 2018 tickets £12 • for details visit http://balquhidderhall. wixsite.com/ balquhidderhall or contact Jill 01877 384 227 Fiona 07745198854
The ‘Last Post’ A Huge Thank You to everyone for all the lovely cards and gifts, everyone who donated to the “Post Box Collection,” all who organised and came along to give me such a fantastic “Leaving Do”, Monachyle Mhor for the prosecco and wine, Lorraine Telfer for the brilliant cake and all who provided food for the feast. Thanks to Gill for the fantastic card, Claire for giving me a “Glowing Report “and also all the other “Posties” I have worked with over the years. I will miss you all. You are all 1st Class. Moira
Run Mhor 2018 Hidden Glen 10K
The Start
The second Hidden Glen 10K took place at Monachyle Mhor Hotel on Saturday 21st April. A record 423 runners took part this year with a further 50 children and adults in the 1Km fun run. Starting and finishing at Monachyle Mhor, the event took in the scenic road alongside Loch Doine before heading into Monachyle Glen. At the top of the glen, as runners reached the turning point, they were treated to spectacular views further down the glen. On their return to the hotel, runners enjoyed a Winner - Men free pint of lager courtesy of Belhaven Brewery and a great selection of food from the hotel. The men’s 10K was won by 17-year-old Max Bloor (41:41) and the women’s race by Mary McCutcheon (44:01). The fun run was also a great success with lots of young determined runners completing the 1Km course. Local runners Ossian Arkotxa and Tabatha MacKenzie won it, for the 2nd consecutive year. Huge thanks must go to the event sponsors Mhor and in particular Tom, Lisa, Dick, Sarah and Paulina along with the fantastic team of chefs and staff. Special thanks also to prize sponsors Go Ape Aberfoyle and Run 4 It (Bridge of Allan). Furthermore, the day would not have been such a success without the hard work and dedication of John Morris and the Third place - Men numerous local volunteers and staff who worked very hard on the day. Thanks also to the local residents of the Glen for their support of the event. We attempted to make you aware of the event in previous editions of the Villager along with a sign at Balquhidder Hall prior to the event. If, however you were unaware of the race and it caused some inconvenience, I can only apologise for this. Please contact info@runmhor.net so I can keep you informed of further events. Congratulations to everyone who took part this year. It was great to see the event being even more successful than last year. The Run Mhor events are developing a great reputation in the running community and we hope to continue this for many years to come. Pete Waugh Run Mhor • Tay Fitness Events
We did it!
Runner up - Men
Winner - Women
All the Winners
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Strathyre News
Stuc 2018 Cheers! As you can see from the photographic evidence, the 50s themed Ladies Lunch was a rockin’ success... There was prosecco on arrival (in a personalised glass) and a gin tasting experience - with over 10 gins to choose from (including a special homemade parma violet gin, created by the lovely Sheridan at Airlie House which went down a storm! Fingers crossed... it will feature as an ice cream soon!) Guests were then welcome to ‘pimp their drink’ at the ‘pimp station’ (shown on front page) all followed by an afternoon tea style lunch and topped off with a salsa dancing session from Mary - who had everyone on their feet. The whole afternoon was great fun and put together by a group of incredibly creative local ladies - who loved every minute - and were overwhelmed at the effort everyone made dressing up on the day! Everyone looked absolutely gorgeous - and they would like to thank you all for making it such fun. Above all else we raised over £1400 - an unbelievable amount - which will go towards the hall funds. Next year’s Ladies’ Lunch is being planned already - so watch this space and thanks again, everyone! 4
Here are some images (by Andrew Poulter) of this year’s very misty Stuc À Chroìn Hill Race earlier in May.
! e u q n a t Pe
Game On...
Jan and I just spent a very enjoyable afternoon/evening at The Broch Cafe where we were treated to something very new to us and the large crowd that turned up, and that was the French game of Petanque. The teams consisted of “The Broch” which was the home team and “The Briar” Lochearnhead who were the visitors, and what a very entertaining game it was to watch, especially in the sunshine and the beautiful location of The Broch. I somehow was roped into being the referee which was a bit unusual, as I had no idea what was happening, but Jan will tell you, nothing unusual there!! The game ended in a very fair draw but there will be a return match on 13th June at Briar Cottage Lochearnhead hosted by Kim and Fraser Proven and this will decide the winner of this round - and we can’t wait. Pictured are the players in action and the teams who were: The Broch - Bill,
Petanque Teams Broch and Briar
Diane, Stevie and Gary - and The Brier - Fraser, Martin, Graeme and Gus. Some facts about the game: Petanque is a form of boules where the goal, while standing inside a starting circle with both feet on the ground, is to throw hollow metal balls as close as possible to a small wooden ball called a cochonnet (piglet) or ‘Jack’ as we would know it. The game is normally played on hard dirt or gravel, but can also be played on grass, sand or other surfaces. The current form of the game originated in 1907 in La Ciotat, in Provence, in Southern France. The ball weighs from two pounds to two and a half pounds, and each player will have their own preference in weight. Well done to both teams and a big thank you to The Broch staff for looking after everyone and the lovely “nibbles” on offer. It’s Game On for the 13th. Wullie D
This is a very polite request from the Old Station Court Tenants and Residents Association of which I am Chairman. The grassed area alongside the core path at the back of the houses is now, and has been for over a year, part of the Court gardens and is financed and maintained by the residents. I would respectfully ask that when using this path could all dogs be kept on a lead and horse riders please stay off the grass, as the weight of a horse can cause serious damage. We are in the process of planting some flowers and it would be nice to see them flourish. Hopefully there will be notices in place soon to advise ALL using the path of this request and AS ALWAYS we would ask cyclists to please slow down in this area for the safety of everyone, especially the children who use this path so often (and will use it even more when the school reopens). Wullie Dalziel Chairman
Strathyre Primary School Parent Partnership Fundraiser
Annual
Bingo Lochearnhead Village Hall The Stuc has now passed and there will be a more formal report from our secretary Steve Respringer, but I just wanted to share this photo of the toughest marshals on the day and they are the ones who endure what can be the harshest of conditions on the Stuc summit for many hours in the interest of the safety of the runners, as indeed do all our wonderful marshals. Pictured from left to right are Oor Graeme (our grandson) Oor Damo, Oor Dougie, Oor Greg Oor Adrian and Oor Ian. Strange how they all have the same first name!! WD
Friday 15th June 2018 from 7pm
Please come along to have fun and to help raise funds for
Strathyre Primary School We are constantly fundraising to help the school pay for school trips throughout the year... the P7 induction trip... educational materials... and any other projects that the school budget doesn’t cover.
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The
St Fillans Bit The Great Loch Earn Boat Race (Continued from front page) Four trophies were handed out for: the first boat in (‘Zeros or Heroes’), ladies’ winning boat (‘HMS Tying the Knot’), veterans’ winning boat (‘Mamma Mia’), and spirit of the race prize (‘Oar the Rainbow’). We have to mention that, other than the first boat in, all the other winners were ladies’ teams! Special thanks to Crieff Round Table for organizing the safety boats, to Strathearn Distillers for sponsorships that made this year’s race possible, to Premier Taxis for carting everyone to the starting point, to Drummond Estates for providing the boats, and to the St Fillans festive committee for arranging foreshore festivities. Most of all: thank you to the Achray House Hotel staff who worked extremely hard in putting all the preparations for the event in place. The event managed to raise around £2,000 for charity, a valiant effort by all for a really worthy cause. Next year’s event has been confirmed, scheduled for Sunday 28 April 2019. Early entries are encouraged, because we have 10 teams already confirmed. Contact Brad at the Achray House Hotel (brad@ achrayhouse.com) to add your name for the 2019 event. See you next year, same time, same place! Trophy Winners Mamma Mia (raising funds for MND Scotland) Katy Light, Carol Graham Pamela McDowall, Louise Whyte Zeros or Heroes (raising funds for charity) Richard Graham, Johnathon Davey Bruce Leckie, Norman MacLeod HMS Tying the Knot (raising funds for Kids Week Crieff) Hazel Bray, Gillian Duncan Christine O’Neil, Tamara Campbell Oar the Rainbow (raising funds for Logos) Keri McArthur King, Malize Donaldson Helen McCrorie, Anita Spurway
The winning Ladies’ Team
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Movie Premiere comes to St Fillans The Festive Committee is very pleased to announce that the stars have aligned for the secret project trailed in last month’s edition of The Villagers. On Friday 17 August, as a precursor to our Festive Weekend activities, there will be a showing in the Sandison Hall of the final cut of The Village by the Loch as produced by Mousehole Films. Our grateful thanks go out to Caroline, Danny, Gabe, and Ade (the Mousehole Team and fellow Villagers), who have laboured for many months to bring this record of life in St Fillans, both past and present, to the silver screen. The Festive Committee have seen the final result and were absolutely blown away by the whole thing! Moreover, Mousehole have undertaken to produce a separate, shortened version specifically for a younger audience, which will be shown on Saturday Morning. The Friday event has to be unmissable for villagers and tickets will go on sale alongside those for the Festive Weekend. Sandison Hall seating is limited to 90, so when they go on sale in July, make sure you get yours early. They will cost only £5 each and 100% of the Ticket money taken will be donated to the Scottish Charity Air Ambulance. The Children’s showing on Saturday will also be by ticket only to get a get a handle on numbers but will be free. It would be good to make the Friday event even more special by giving it a “Big Budget Premiere” feel - so dressing up will be optional: Gentlemen – Black Tie/ National Dress, and Ladies – just look stunning, as usual! Suitable refreshments will be served on arrival and a top up will be available for purchase during the short intermission. Looking forward to it already!
Nomination for Four Seasons The Four Seasons Hotel is delighted to announce that it has been nominated and is a finalist for two awards at the 3rd Scottish Hospitality Awards to be held in Glasgow on the 29th May. Shortlisted for “Hotel of the Year, Central Scotland” and “Hotel Team of the Year”, Susan Stuart, new owner says, “These awards are voted by the public so is recognition of just how hard the team here is working. My thanks go to all who voted for us”. Four Seasons News... With summer looming the hotel is changing its menus to introduce ‘a taste of summer’. Susan is pleased that the new monthly Sunday Brunch (1st Sunday of the month) has really taken off and says, “once a month keeps the Sunday brunch buffet fresh in people’s minds and interesting, making it something for all to look forward to.” With eggs benedict, smoothies and pancakes on offer the traditionalist can still get a Sunday roast served from the kitchen and can finish their meal with a selection from the dessert table all for £17.50 per person. Children under 11 years, half price. Fathers’ Day is also just around the corner and at The Four Seasons, the day has been stretched to an anytime, all weekend event, to fit around the games of golf and the football matches. A special two or three course menu is available from Friday to Monday and includes either a glass of wine (house) or a pint of beer of your choice for £24.50 or £29.50 respectively. So, if you fancy starter and main before golf, returning for pud afterwards, that can be catered for! Bookings are essential for both of the above events. Man’s (and woman’s) best friend is welcome to join Fathers’ Day in the Tarken. Sunday Brunch buffet in The Meall Reamhar - humans only! Tel 01764 685333.
High as a Kite?
Future Looks Bright at Mini Stuc during YOP2018 What an honour to be asked to present the medals at Mini Stuc A Chroin during Year of Young People 2018! Wullie Dalziel will tell you more about the race in his Strathyre column. In the medal ceremony speech, I mentioned that adults are celebrating children during #YOYP2018. I told them that they are worth celebrating due to their important position in society. My reasoning? They are “The Future”. Hopefully, some of our young VIP’s will grow up to take part in the Stuc A Chroin committee or run in the adult race. Maybe they will take over or start a new business in the area and get involved in community events, activities and councils or become Chair of LETi one day. I like to think that those who leave will return with their children to take holidays, eat in our local restaurants and enjoy outdoor activities and events. I wondered if the next Jessica Ennis or Mo Farah was standing before me or indeed a future Prime Minister. I recommended that the children should listen to and absorb as much information as possible from parents and teachers and to be aware that adults can also learn from them. I interviewed some of the young runners and you can read about that and see photographs on LETi’s BLiSS Future pages at www.robroycountry.com There has been a lot in the news about the health benefits of children running a regular mile at intervals. This was started by a Stirlingshire primary school. I learned from Strathyre Primary school that they have a Kilometer Club ensuring regular running throughout the week. Judging by the energy and enthusiasm from all 70 of the Young Mini Stuc A Chroin runners - the future looks very bright indeed. LETi is working on an audio tour of the BLiSS trail with some voice recordings supplied by young members of our communities. More will be revealed during the launch in conjunction with GeoTourist, a company that provides audio tours to the world. If anyone you meet or know is staying in accommodation that is promoted on the LETi website, please make them aware that LETi members can issue a password that will get them 10% off a Glenturret distillery tour. We can also issue a special price for a round of 9 or 18 holes of golf at St Fillans. If you have a tourism related business in a BLS village and would like to know more about joining LETi, contact Kim. email: briarinfo@btinternet.com
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ged the van” Jan and I recently “drag autiful Isle be over to Lochranza on the ist taking a res t no of Arran and I could the laziest “kite photo of what must be t you decide. flier” I have ever seen, bu see a glass ll wi If you look closely you he was so as t sea of beer under his ess! WD cel Pri s. ort eff thirsty from his 7
H I G H L A N D
G A M E S
2 0 1 8
Photo © Richard Findlay
LO C H E A R N H E A D
Dear Games Supporter
21st May 2018
Another year has flashed by and I sit here wondering where it all went but I do remember the Games. Another great day with the weather gods firmly on our side! A small financial success with a good crowd although bar takings were down a bit which is one of our biggest earners. All good but we must not be complacent we have enough money in the kitty to survive one maybe two bad years, the Games cost in the region of £20.000 to put on. A lot of money. This year no other games near us are happening on the same day so hopefully we can expect a larger crowd than usual plus the Clan MacGregor are hosting a gathering this year and should be swelling the numbers in the march at the start of the games. We also welcome Sir Malcolm MacGregor of MacGregor as our Chieftain this year who will be leading the march on to the field at one o clock. All departments work well thanks to very efficient and well-rehearsed members of the committee. As always, we can do with a bit of help in most departments. On the day we had a tremendous turnout of competitors and athletes. The dancing platform was busy all afternoon and according to Jean Swanston, our convener, a very high standard was evident. Paul and his car park attendants do a super job marshalling the bottom section of the hill race and seeing all the runners safely over the road on the way up and down over and above the marvellous job they do in parking the huge number of vehicles that flood the village. Liz and her team on the gates did a great job of welcoming all the spectators and politely extracting money from them with a friendly smile. A major thank you to Alex our Secretary and treasurer who does a great deal of work before and after the games most of which is pretty dull but must be done. Of course, a huge thank you must go to you, our Patrons, sponsors and friends who without this important event in the BLS calendar would not happen. Apparently the biggest one-day event in Stirling Council with records going back to 1838! Should any of you wish to give a hand in the setting up, taking down or on the day, it does not have to be all day an hour or three would be a big help and relieve our hard-pushed volunteers, please let either Alex or myself know. As usual all our prices are going up, Toilets, tents, prize monies, Judges expenses and improvements to the field. You can imagine this all costs money, and time from our very small army of volunteers. So once again we are asking if you would be generous enough to help us with some form of Patronage or Sponsorship for this important event in the local calendar. Should you wish to sponsor an event, please contact me, Alex Gargolinski on 07860644709 or Ken McCallum 01786 825270/07554 297211 and we can discuss what and how. We will put a list of our Patrons in the programme. If you have taken on an event, this can be done by adding your name or business name. The sum donated will not be listed. With this we will send you tickets for entry into the park and we will have some form of hospitality to which you will be invited, to join the convenors in some light refreshments. I look forward to seeing you all on the 21st July and hopefully hearing from you in the near future. Yours Aye
Angus Cameron President BALQUHIDDER, LOCHEARNHEAD AND STRATHYRE HIGHLAND GAMES
(Member of the Scottish Games Association)
President: Angus J. Cameron, Dundhu, Lochearnhead Tel: 01567 830268 07711368649 Treasurer: Alex Gargolinski, Ben Ouhr, Lochearnhead Tel: 01567 830231 07860644709 Hon Presidents: Ann Cameron, Robert Gibbons, Sandy Stewart of Ardvorlich Hon Vice Presidents: Donald MacLaren of MacLaren, Sir Malcolm MacGregor of MacGregor Vice Presidents: Ken McCallum, Jimmy Stewart 8
Balquhidder, Lochearnhead and Strathyre... your village needs you! The annual charity men’s and ladies’ football matches take place on Sunday 22nd July 2018 at 3pm. Once the volunteers have cleared up the Games field the married men of the villages will play the single men for the trophy and at half time the married ladies will play the single ladies for their very own trophy. Players of any age and standard will be very welcome and are needed to boost the numbers – can you help? Several local good causes benefit from the famous raffle in addition to a national cancer charity and donations to the raffle would be most welcome. Refreshments and burgers will be available at the beer tent. If you can help out in any way contact: George Weir 07855 023360 or Martin Sanders 07719 773230
Balquhidder Church News MUSINGS FROM THE MANSE
No Short Cuts
A note from
St Angus’s
I write this on a sad day - Paddy is leaving us - and off to enjoy a wellearned retirement. And, my goodness, doesn’t she deserve it! I don’t think we will ever forget her dedication and work ethic; she’s going to be a hard act to follow. Change is an inevitable part of life and though regretting her departure we now need to look forward to the next chapter in the life of the Strathearn parishes and we need to rise to the challenge of the interregnum and to doing whatever we can to help our valued lay minister Kate and our deacon Bill who voluntarily give up their time to travel a considerable distance to keep our services going, often to find a nearly empty Church when they arrive. Let’s see if we can’t do better... Not every style of ministry suits everyone in the congregation but maybe we could think a little more about what we can put into a service rather than what we can get out of it and remember we are not there so much for our own benefit but for God’s and worshipping Him will inevitably bring its own reward. In a lighter vein, I was watching The Secret Life of the Zoo recently and was struck by a remark by one of the keepers. He was referring to penguins when he said, “survival depends upon adaptability” and I couldn’t help wondering if that shouldn’t equally be relevant to the Church. I think perhaps those who don’t attend might have something to say on that subject. I wish they would...
There is a story about an Amish family visiting town for the first time. Having got there from their farm in their horsedrawn carriage they are amazed and bewildered by the sights, sounds, smells and colours on this strange new environment. They go into a shopping mall (as the Americans call it) and sense the buzz and the excitement of a new world. They see a moving staircase that people nonchalantly step on without breaking conversation, and it carries them up to another level. The mother and daughter decide to try this, so off they go. Meanwhile the father and son are fascinated by a nearby wall which periodically opens and closes and various people emerge from the wall and walk past them, and then others go in and disappear as the wall closes behind them. As they are pondering this, a very elderly lady with a walking stick approaches the wall and touches a part of it with an extended finger. Suddenly, the wall in front of her opens and she walks in. The wall closes behind her. The father and son notice a line of numbers on the wall that light up in ascending sequence 1, 2, 3, 4. Then there is a pause and the numbers light up in descending sequence 4,3,2,1. The wall opens again and as the father and son watch on, a tall elegant leggy blonde emerges from the wall. The father turned to the son and said “quick, run and get your mother!” Ah... if only life was so simple! Technology is wonderful but it’s not miraculous! By the way, in the interests of equality and to deflect accusations of sexism, I’d better add that the story could also be told from a female perspective. Now jokes just like parables, proverbs and witticisms are not just amusing but usually contain an angle of commentary on the human condition. This story is like that. It has often been pointed out by various cultural critics over the last few decades that we now live in the age of “instant gratification.” This is down to both the wonders of technology that has enhanced modern life in a myriad of ways, many of which we take for granted, and the resultant raised expectations that are produced. Now the opposite of instant gratification is of course “delayed gratification.” We all know that when we have waited patiently for something or, have worked long and hard for it, or even have doubted that it would ever materialise, then the end result can be wonderfully enriching and fulfilling; something to be savoured and enjoyed. Now whilst that is true, it is also true that some things cannot be rushed, some things have no quick fixes, and some things may never be fixed or accomplished but they cannot be left alone either. They are worth our best efforts and commitments regardless of the outcome. These relate to our own personal development as human beings and of course our relationship with others. In both of these areas there are often no easy solutions or instant make-overs, only slow methodical growth and development which sometimes can be demanding and even painful as we negotiate our pilgrimage through life. The Bible is a strange book, not least to those of faith! Yes, there are stories of miracles but surprisingly, they are only scattered here and there within the larger story and seem to have a very particular context. A lot of the Biblical story has to do with human responsibility and our response to the weird but wonderful reality we find ourselves in. Yes, there is the promise of God’s presence and grace for the journey, but we still have to travel the road…no escalators or chair-lifts here! In his list of characteristics which Paul describes as the “Fruits of the Spirit,” he lists “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22) A great list indeed! But note, none of these emerge in our personality instantaneously but need to be cultivated, nurtured and strengthened throughout the course of our lives. In this we need all the help we can get. In this regard, the Christian faith offers a framework and support structure for our earthly journey. It has stood the test of time and although the Church has, in general terms, fallen out of favour in our society, I believe it still has a lot to offer to the genuine seeker. Russel 9
Callander Rambling Club Sponsored by Caledonian Country Wear
The Club consists of a group of enthusiasts who meet regularly throughout the year to participate in a programme of strolls, rambles, hill walks and a Long Distance Path. Details are published on incallander. co.uk/ramblers.htm in the Ben Ledi View and on posters around Callander. New members and guests are always welcome. Here are some dates for your diary:
Pin-Feathers*
*Once in demand by Victorian miniaturists, the tiny pin-feather comes from the leading edge of a woodcock’s wing and only two such feathers occur on each bird (one on each wing). This month, Old Nyati shares a poem - with feeling. I’M VERY WELL, THANK YOU There is nothing the matter with me I’m healthy as I can be I have arthritis in both my knees And when I talk... I talk with a wheeze. My pulse is weak, and my blood is thin But...I’m awfully well for the shape that I’m in! Arch supports I have for my feet Or I couldn’t go on the street Sleep is denied me night after night But every morning I find I’m alright My memory is failing, my head’s in a spin But I’m awfully well for the shape that I’m in! The moral is this...as my tale I unfold That for you and me who are getting old It’s better to say “I’m fine” with a grin Than to let folks know the shape that I’m in. How do I know that my youth is all spent? Well... my get up and go has got up and went But I really don’t mind when I think with a grin Of all the grand places my got up has bin. Old age is golden I’ve heard it said But sometimes I wonder as I get into bed With my ears in a drawer, my teeth in a cup My specs on a table until I get up ‘Ere sleep overtakes me I say to myself “Is there anything else I could lay on the shelf?” When I was young my slippers were red I could kick my heels right over my head. When I was older my slippers were blue But I still could dance the whole night through. Now I am old my slippers are black I walk to the shops and puff my way back. I get up each morning and dust off my wits And pick up the paper to read the “obits”. If my name is missing I know I’m not dead And so I have breakfast and... go back to bed. 10
Anon (R.I.P.)
JUNE • Sat 2 8:30 Hill: The Cobbler (884m) Contact 01877 382924 • Wed 6 9:30 Stroll: Achray Ramble (5miles) Contact 01877 382617 • Wed 20 9:30 Ramble: In & Around the Blane Valley (8miles) Contact 01877 330446 • Sat 23 8:30 LDP: TLW2 - Helensburgh to Garelochhead (9miles) Contact 01877 330032 JULY • Wed 4 9:30 Stroll: Dam Walk Circular (6 miles) Contact 07785 703124 • Sat 7 8:30 Hill: Ben Cruachan (1126m) Contact 01877 339080 • Sat 14 8:30 LDP: TLW3 – Gareloch to Tarbet (12 miles) Contact 01877 330032 • Sat 21 8:30 8:30 Ramble: Craigower and the Linn of Tummel (6 miles) Contact 01796 472461 • Wed 25 9:30 Ramble: Summerfest – Around Loch Venachar Contact 01786 825249 Sat 28 8:30 Ramble: Balquhidder to Brig O’Turk (10 miles) Contact 01877 330059 AUGUST • Sat 4 8:30 Hill: Ben Chonzie (931m) Contact 01877 331067 • Wed 8 9:30 Stroll: Arivurichardich (4 miles) Contact 01877 339323
We meet in Ancaster Square, unless otherwise indicated. Please bring wet weather clothing, appropriate footwear and a packed lunch. And please let the walk leader know if you plan to join the walk via the contact number given! Visitors and non-members welcome.
Doctors
BRACKLINN & LENY PRACTICES
SEEING STARS by Keith Wilson
JUNE
Can you find the upside down giant in the night sky this month? The giant in question is of course Hercules, the ‘celestial strongman’ of the summer night sky. To spot the constellation of Hercules look high above the southern horizon. To the ancient Greeks this constellation was known as the ‘kneeling man’ but the pattern of the mythological figure can be difficult to visualise, especially as Hercules is upside down from our point of view. The constellation doesn’t have any really bright stars but it can easily be found between the bright star Vega in Lyra and the bright star Arcturus in Bootes. The most distinctive pattern in the constellation is the ‘keystone’, the quadrilateral, which forms the centre of Hercules. Midway between the two right hand stars of the ‘keystone’ is one of the most spectacular sights in the northern night sky - the M13 globular cluster - 300,000 red giant stars compressed into a small cluster.
Patient Focus Group We recently held our second meeting of the joint Patient Focus Group at the Medical Centre. Both Practice Managers attended along with patients from both practices. It was a very positive meeting with lively discussions. The main topic for discussion at this meeting was the new GP contract and the potential changes this could bring to the way we deliver patient care in Callander. Despite us now working under the new contract no firm decisions have been made by the Board as to how they intend to deliver services such as phlebotomy, travel vaccinations and childhood immunisations. We intend to update the group as more information becomes available. We also discussed the increased problem of inappropriate and aggressive behaviour to staff within the practices. This was something we highlighted in a previous article but, unfortunately, the problem continues. We talked about ways we can reduce this and will work with the group to formalise ideas and strategies moving forward. We are hoping more patients will come along and join the group as we want patient involvement, feedback and ideas to ensure that we provide the best service we can to patients of Callander Medical Centre. We will be holding our next meeting on Tuesday 19th June at 1pm. Tea/Coffee provided. Please feel free to come along. Some seasonal problems: Hayfever – as summer approaches we see an increased demand for appointments from patients suffering with hayfever. The local Pharmacies are able to deal with seasonal hayfever under the Pharmacy First Scheme. They should be the first point of contact for advice. Should they feel that you require to see a doctor they will advise you accordingly. Sunburn Advice – as summer is now upon us please remember that protecting your skin using sunscreen is better than treating it. Try to always use a sunscreen with a High UVA & UVB protection. This should be clearly stated on the label. Should you suffer from sunburn the advice is to cool the skin with a cold flannel or by bathing. Drinking fluids is essential but avoid alcohol as this will dehydrate you further. Aftersun cream and calamine lotion can relieve any itching or soreness. Paracetamol can be used to help any pain and control fever and Ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and lower a high temperature. The Pharmacy is able to give advice on treatment should you require further information. Holiday medication - please ensure you order your repeat medication the week before your holiday. We still receive requests marked urgent due to going on holiday the following day and this puts increased pressure on the staff, the doctors and the pharmacies to turn around the request in such short time scales. We may not be able to accommodate your request at short notice.
Drs Strang & Scott and Drs Mathewson & Gibson Community Nurses The surgeries and community nurses take part in various training programmes throughout the year. This is to meet the educational and training needs of all members of the practice and nursing team. The next training afternoon will provisionally be on: Tuesday 26th June 2018 Both practices and community nurse clinic will close at 12.30pm. We hope that emergency cover will be provided by NHS24 for nursing and GPs, however, this will not be confirmed to the practices until nearer the time. In the event of an emergency, please telephone 111. On this afternoon, please do not contact the surgeries for repeat prescriptions or for appointments. 11
BOOK REVIEW
Jasper Jones Craig Silvey
This a tale of small town Australia.
It is 1965 - and the Australian government has just increased its troop commitment to Vietnam. Racial tensions are high. Charlie Bucktin is 13 years old. His best friend Jeffrey Lu is Vietnamese. Lu is fanatical about cricket, Charlie is introspective and sensitive and physically frail. He mostly stays in his room reading novels by William Faulkner and Mark Twain. His parents’ marriage is in meltdown. One hot and sweaty night Charlie is woken at his bedroom window by Jasper Jones, an older indigenous boy who has a terrible reputation in the town as the bad boy: labelled as a liar, a thug and truant, always in trouble with the law. Jasper needs Charlie’s help. Charlie, unable to refuse his request, possibly flattered or even frightened by Jasper’s interest in him is led out of town to Jasper’s secret hiding place where they find Laura Wishart hanging dead from a tree. Charlie wants to report the death to the police, but Jasper convinced that he will be blamed as the obvious culprit, considered to be an “animal” in the town. He insists on his innocence and persuades Charlie, who by now is an accomplice, to help Jasper dispose of the body. Together they vow to find the real killer. This is a coming of age novel with a murder in the middle of it. The treatment of indigenous peoples of Australia is shamefully exposed. The national sport of cricket plays its part in the teenagers’ journey through adolescence and the troubles which Jeffrey Lu encounters are amusingly written. This is a very good whodunnit with intriguing twists and turns but it is also a sensitive and at times funny tale of small outback town social and political foibles.
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Stuc a’ Chroin 5000 Hill Race Finlay does it again! On a day when conditions differed greatly between the relatively balmy base HQ at the recreation ground and the nearzero visibility and below-zero windchill at altitude, Finlay Wild (Lochaber) was first to enter and first to exit those harsh conditions. Finlay came in 02:11:22, a full 10 minutes ahead of 2nd placed Jonathan Crickmore (HBT) 02:22:00 and Sam Alexander just behind on 02:23:22. For the ladies, Stephanie Provan (Deeside) came in 1st with a time of 02:46:32, not far behind was 2nd Ruth Crewe (Westerlands) 02:51:10 and Helen Bonsor, Carnethy on 02:56:52 came 3rd. A great day for all though and there were a few first timers who reported that they’d be back. No new records were set as the course was diverted due to the extended harsh winter and forestry operations and more of the race reverted temporarily to forest track than we would have liked. Underfoot conditions were best described as ‘slippy’, ‘treacherous’, ‘challenging’ and perhaps various other descriptives, but however you called them, they slowed the pace down a bit and were responsible for a few withdrawals and injuries, although thankfully nothing serious. Due to the deteriorating conditions, we also had to bring forward the cut-off at the cross-over by 10-15 minutes which brought the race to a pre-mature end for a couple of frustrated runners. Always a difficult decision, the guys at the top have to call it the way they see it and safety of runners and marshals is always paramount. With thanks to the White Stag at Strathyre for hosting us on the day and throughout the year, the Munro for their support, Mike Holliday, Eoin Campbell and Tony and the lads for distributing the water, Glen Ample Estate for allowing the use of their land, the Forestry Commission for their support, to our main sponsors Kingshouse Travel, Thomas Allan, Sula Furnishing, the Green
The first three!
Welly Stop, White Stag (formerly The Inn), Stirling Stoves, The Broch, Watson Interiors, Immervoulin Caravan Park. The Munro, Ben Shean, Strathyre Cleansing, Aitchison Enterprises, KPs DIY, Ian Brydie Building Services, Heroncraft Scotland, S Carmichael & Sons (Comrie), the Denholm Partnership, Pete Bland, N&H MacGuire, Bookers, and Ping-pm. Many thanks also to Andrew Poulter, Dave Hunt, Archie Scott and David Johnston for their brilliant photos. As ever, we are lauded for our fantastic support on the hill and our many supporters at Base HQ who ensured the safety of the runners on the hill in very trying conditions, successfully erected and dismantled the marquees, supplied soup and juice to the runners at finish, and the supremely organised registration, start and finish teams. Next year is our 30th anniversary and we’re looking forward to welcoming all our supporters both new and old back for our celebrations. (More photos of the race on page 4, if you missed them! - Ed)
Orchids
around Callander A walk up Braeleny Road in June 2017 spotted 7 species of orchids in flower, equalling the number found in many Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI’s). Our expert guide was Roy Sexton, Stirling SWT Chair and retired botany professor. In his fascinating talk this April, he covered 15 orchid species that can be found within a 20 mile radius of Callander: impressive considering there are only 26 throughout Scotland (51 in the UK and 250 in Europe). The complex mechanisms by which orchids employ insects to achieve crosspollination were deduced by Charles Darwin and described in The Various Contrivances by which Orchids are Fertilised by Insects (1862) which won more prizes than his Origin of Species! For example, flowers with nectar at the end of a long tube will be pollinated by long-tongued insects such as butterflies or moths while shorted spurred species entice beetles, flies or bees. They may emit an attractive scent, the nectar can be alcoholic and contain drugs and flower colour may be an attractant, eg white orchids that are more perfumed at night are pollinated by night-flying moths. Most orchids produce sticky pollen grains, 20,000 of which clump together into pollinia which stick to the heads, eyes or even tongues of pollinating insects as they enter the flower. Their location is very specific to ensure they are deposited on the stigma of the next flower visited. This mechanism is very successful with ~78% of flowers being pollinated to produce thousands of minute seeds. However, these are too small to contain food and therefore spend 3-5 years underground while fungi enter their cells to provide food before leaves appear above ground. Probably the most familiar wild orchids are the purple spotted ones; commonspotted, early purple, heath-spotted, Northern Marsh and the early marsh orchid, all found at Braeleny. Stripes on their lower lips guide bees into the flowers. White butterfly orchids have a long narrow nectary so need a long-tongued pollinator plus are more perfumed at night to attract moths. The tongue and eyes are the only parts of a moth that are not scaly so it is to the eyes that the Greater Butterfly Orchid (GBO) pollinia stick, usually 1 or 2 but 11 have been seen! The Lesser Butterfly orchid (LBO) is a different shape and pollinia stick to the tongue. Excellent photographs of moths with attached pollinator can be seen in Roy’s paper: http://www.hardyorchidsociety.org.uk/ HOS%201012/Pollination/Sexton%20 2014.pdf. The delicate fragrant orchid has a similar pollination mechanism to the LBO but is
Fragrant orchid pink and scented in daylight so it attracts day-flying moths, also attaching pollinia to their tongue. The small, green twayblade orchid (~100 found at Braeleny) has a shallow cup from which nectar runs out, attracting beetles. Pollinia attach very specifically to their ‘foreheads’ where they cannot be scraped off. The lesser twayblade is pollinated by small flies and gnats and has been found near the top of Ben Ledi: however, at 2cm high and growing under old clumps of heather you may not spot it! There was some excitement when the rare, protected small white orchid was recently found on the descent route from Callander Crags although its tiny green flowers are easily overlooked. Others found outside Callander include the broad-leaved helliborine that has a maroon cup-shaped ‘landing platform’ with a perfume that specifically attracts wasps - the same attractant that is emitted by threatened cabbages to attract the wasps that eat caterpillars! The (ugly) frog orchid is pollinated by soldier beetles while the smooth bog orchid is unusual in reproducing vegetatively via tiny white bulbils. While most orchids have green leaves and photosynthesise the bird’s nest and coral root orchids have no chlorophyll or leaves so rely on a lifetime association with mycorrhizal fungi that form an extensive underground network to increase food and water uptake. These appealing flowers, like much wildlife, need protection from uninformed land use and development. Would you be willing to check local planning applications for possible environmental impact? Lesley Hawkins
Small white orchid
Greater Butterfly orchid
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McLaren High School
Walkers and runners get active on the Sponsored Walk
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Sponsored Walk Our annual sponsored walk took place on Friday 4 May. The walk followed the welltrodden route from the school through Coilhallan Wood toward the fish farm, returning along the Invertrossachs Road. In advance of the walkers a group of runners completed the course and classes then set off at five-minute intervals allowing an even spread of participants along the way. There was an air of energy and enthusiasm amongst pupils as they enjoyed an afternoon away from their normal routine. Walking with friends, chatting, taking in the scenery, passing time with the teachers who were walking or stewarding the route all contributed to a fun afternoon. Special thanks to members of our PTA who helped out with stewarding duties this year. Most classes completed the 5km route in just over an hour. All of the money raised from the sponsored walk will stay in the school to the benefit of McLaren High pupils. As we go to press the projected total raised is just short of £3,000. Flanders Moss ‘Under the Microscope’ A Botanical Art Project with local schools, inspired by the special bog plants of Flanders Moss, near Thornhill. Art Exhibition 9th-17th June 2018 Do you know how they made nappies 200 years ago, or how to make rope from moss? How do sundews capture their prey? Local school children are finding out answers to these questions and much more. The answers lie in the ‘bog’, specifically Flanders Moss National Nature Reserve, the largest raised bog in the UK, just 7 miles west of Stirling, in the heart of the Carse of Stirling, near Thornhill. During May, sixty five students from McLaren High School, Callander and primary schools in Thornhill and Port of Menteith are participating in Flanders Moss ‘Under the Microscope’, a botanical art project supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, linking science, heritage and art. The project is the first big project for the Carse of Stirling Partnership and involves David Pickett, SNH manager of Flanders Moss NNR, botanical illustrator Jessica Langford and creative botanist Kate Sankey. The best way for visitors to see Flanders Moss is from above. The Tower provides a great viewing platform and the boardwalk allows you to walk over the bog, looking down at the plants just below your feet. ‘Under the Microscope’ is an opportunity for the students to see the bog close up, and through their artwork reveal the fantastic colours and structures of plants which live and form the bog. The students will be looking in detail at the rich habitat the Moss provides and
through their drawings and paintings visitors to the exhibition will discover a unique view of Flanders Moss. Flanders Moss is home to a number of specialist bog plants, such as sphagnum moss, bog cotton, star moss, cranberry, sundews and reindeer moss. The students first study plants on-site and then back in the classroom through magnifying lens’ and microscopes, examining in detail the cells, structures, colours and forms. These images provide the inspiration for their artwork, using different materials and techniques such as water colour pencils, oil pastels, wax resist and silhouettes. The final artwork will be shown on Flanders Moss and at West Moss-side as part of the Forth Valley Art Beat week (9 - 17 June). For more details see the website: https://forthvalleyartbeat.com/.
visit our website: www.mclarenhigh.co.uk 15
National Park joins campaign to tackle roadside litter Visitors to Scotland’s first National Park are being urged to ‘give their litter a lift’ as part of a national campaign to tackle roadside litter. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park has teamed up with Keep Scotland Beautiful to support their roadside litter campaign by using messages on bins and lampposts at key visitor sites. Litter levels in Scotland are at their worst in a decade with 82% of motorways and A-road verges recorded a presence of litter in 2016/17. The National Park attracts more than four million visitors every year and has some of Scotland’s busiest major roads passing through it. Unfortunately, this can lead to increased levels of litter being dumped on some of the most scenic routes in the country. This type of litter not only spoils the spectacular landscape and views of the area, roadside litter is difficult, dangerous and costly to clear up. The only real solution is for those responsible to change their bad habits and dispose of their rubbish responsibly when on the road. This means holding on to it in the vehicle until they find a suitable bin. In other words: Give your litter a lift, take it home! As part of Keep Scotland Beautiful’s national week of action, the National Park Authority have placed ‘Give your litter a lift’ messages on bins and lampposts at key locations throughout the Park where visitors often stop to pick up something to eat or drink or enjoy a picnic along their journey. While many of these locations have bins, the aim is to remind people that if they are moving on with their snacks and drinks to keep their litter with them until they reach a bin or to take it home with them. Simon Jones, Director of Conservation and but we are working to tackle this issue across Visitor Operations at Loch Lomond & The the area as best we can. Trossachs National Park, said: “The National “We are doing this by trialling different Park is one of the most beautiful places in approaches to managing litter on our own Scotland, yet litter is a problem blighting some sites, by working in collaboration with our partners, other landowners and communities places in this special landscape. “Litter doesn’t just ruin a great view, it can be through initiatives like community clean-ups harmful to people and wildlife. Roadside litter is and by taking part in campaigns such as this particularly disappointing to see, especially for one to spread the message that everyone can those who do dispose of their litter responsibly play their part in preventing litter from spoiling and arrive or stop at popular locations to take this beautiful area. The solution is simple, if in the view and are confronted with someone there are no bins, or bins are full, take your litter home with you.” else’s discarded waste. “As the National Park Authority, we aren’t “Litter dropped on roadsides is particularly responsible for collecting all litter in the Park, difficult, dangerous and costly to remove, so it
CLACHAN COTTTAGE HOTEL ONE OF SCOTLAND’S ICONIC SETTINGS ON THE SHORE OF LOCH EARN The Clachan has been here for a long time, tending to travellers and residents alike - and is now the largest hotel in the area, boasting deluxe bedrooms and amazing loch view rooms. Summer’s here at last - but after sundown when the evenings get chilly, snuggle up in front of our blazing log burner... Try our ‘smoked venison with grilled wild mushrooms’ accompanied by one of our 20 trendy gins. Sample our fresh scallops from Loch Broome - and finish off with an old favourite: home made sticky toffee pudding, smothered with butterscotch sauce. Hotel residents can take advantage of our free bikes or canoes to really explore the surrounding countryside. This gives our overseas visitors the chance to see Cycle Route 7 without the hassle of travelling with bikes. Weddings and small functions are hosted by the Clachan. Our stunning setting provides the perfect backdrop for those all important videos or photos. Deluxe bedrooms • Clachan bar • Rowan restaurant Canoes/boat trips or bikes available • now showing all SKY sports in the bar
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is vital that people take this on board and act more responsibly. Keeping litter in the vehicle until a suitable bin is found is not hard to do. Hopefully our messaging will help improve the situation in the Park. “This initiative comes amidst our national Week of Action, which has seen hundreds of schools, communities, businesses and other partners take action to send the message that littering in Scotland is not acceptable. With 88% of people agreeing that roadside litter creates a negative impression of Scotland it is time we all do our part to address this unnecessary blight.” For more information about Keep Scotland Beautiful’s Roadside Litter Campaign go to https://www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/ roadside-litter-campaign/
Call for bolder action on litter in Scotland’s first National Park Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, the independent conservation and heritage charity for Scotland’s first National Park, has called for bolder action to tackle the blight of litter alongside the busy A82 tourist route on Loch Lomondside and at other visitor hotspots throughout the National Park. At the recent well-attended annual general meeting of the Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, litter was a hot topic following one of the worst years on record for accumulations of litter at beauty spots in the National Park. There was concern that the current arrangements for litter collection are poorly co-ordinated between the various agencies and fall well short of what is required in Scotland’s most popular countryside destination. The Friends have suggested (as part of a more pro-active approach to dealing with the litter problem) a five point action plan to be adopted by local Councils and bodies such as the National Park Authority and Forestry Commission Scotland. • A more joined up approach should be taken to tackling litter issues including more frequent litter clearance at busy weekends and during holiday periods; • More and larger bins should be provided at busy locations throughout the National Park as exhortations to take litter home in isolation of other measures simply doesn’t work; • Implementation of the same policy for the A82 on Loch Lomondside as exists along the A9 in the Cairngorms National Park where litter bins are provided in every layby and emptied regularly; • More rigorous enforcement of litter fines as part of a wider effort to change people’s bad habits and attitudes in relation to discarding litter in the countryside and alongside road verges; and • More hard hitting litter education campaigns on topics such as single use plastic, recycling and the impacts of irresponsible litter disposal in the National Park.
Volunteers muck in for latest Make a Difference Day in Scotland’s first National Park Approximately 15 volunteers got their hands dirty to collect more than 20 bags of rubbish from a beauty spot beside Loch Lubnaig, near Strathyre. The event, organised in association with Forest Holidays and Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority, had been due to take place in early March, but had to be cancelled due to ‘The Beast from the East’. However, even the weather couldn’t stop the volunteers from heading to the site in more spring-like conditions to lend their services for the day. The event was the latest Make a Difference Day to be led by the Friends and builds on the efforts made by the conservation and heritage charity
in recent years. Several other such events have taken place with the aim of removing litter and overgrown rhododendron from various parts of Scotland’s first National Park. Plans are also already in place for the next Make a Difference Day, which is scheduled for Thursday, June 14 along the West Loch Lomond Cycle Path. The Friends had previously staged an event there five years ago, but further work is now needed to reopen the view of Loch Lomond, and all those with an interest in conservation of the National Park are urged to take part. Friends Project Officer Jared Bowers, who was one of the volunteers who took part, said: “We are delighted with
Above and left: Volunteers at Loch Lubnaig did a grand job of collecting rubbish for Make A Difference Day
the success of our Make a Difference Day and already we can’t wait for the next one! Volunteers are a vital part of what our charity sets out to achieve in Scotland’s first National Park and we very much appreciate their ongoing support, including that from the businesses whose employees joined us on the day. “Anybody wanting to get involved in next month’s Make a Difference Day is encouraged to get in touch with us. The more people take part in our activities, the bigger the difference we can make.” 17
Kasia’s Co okin’... Crumble Rhubarb Yeast Cake This is the cake that is very popular in Poland and Germany. It tastes amazing and the whole house will smell like the best bakery. It can be made with any seasonal fruit, such as rhubarb, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries or plums. But it will also taste great without any fruit. It is topped with the crumble, that gives the flavour of vanilla. It is best served on the day of baking and can be eaten cold or straight from the oven! Ingredients: For the crumble: 500g plain flour 100g butter, 4 tsp dry active yeasts 100g sugar 1egg +2 egg yolks 100g ground almond 6 tbsp sugar 100g plain flour 250ml milk 2 tsp vanilla essence Pinch of salt 2 long stalks of rhubarb sliced Icing sugar for sprinkling (optional) Heat oven to 180C. Mix together yeasts, sugar, warm milk (but not hot) and 3 tbsp of flour. Leave in a warm place for about 10 min to proof. Add the rest of the flour, the egg, the egg yolks, melted butter, salt. Mix well. Let the dough rise for an hour in a warm place. Line the form (about 20x30cm) with the baking paper and spread the dough. Add rhubarb on the top. Leave the cake for a while in a warm place and make the crumble in the meantime. To make the crumble chop the butter, add the remaining ingredients, mix well together and knead with your hands. Sprinkle the crumble over the cake. Put into the oven. Bake for about 30-40 min or until the inserted wooden stick comes out clean. Sprinkle with icing sugar if desired. Enjoy!
Kasia
Just an update on the continuing work at the recreation ground... As you will see from the photos it has been a very hard and cold slog for all concerned but we have finally installed the drainage pipes, which we hope will keep the area free from water logging - and prevent water from reaching the gardens and houses below the recommended level. We have also installed a new pathway to the ground. Work is still to be done with grass seeding and some landscaping to follow - but all in good time. This is where I would like to ask for some help from anyone who can spare some time. What I would like to propose is to plant some perennial flowers or shrubs on the banked areas (anywhere except the actual field) - preferably ground cover plants that produce colour through the seasons and are easily looked after. So, if you have any excess from your greenhouse or garden and would like to contribute, please let me know. If you are not in a position to plant them yourself, let me know and I will arrange planting. Perhaps you may want to plant a memorial to your lost loved one or family pet... why not put it there, where you have access at all times? Could I ask that we avoid daffodils or similar plants which don’t last long, or need cutting or tying down after blooming, as we already have enough of those. Bluebells and Forget-me-nots are ideal ground cover... but we’d be happy with anything. One last request! When this lovely area is complete it will need to be maintained. It would be nice to have a group of volunteers to help out - perhaps on a rota basis - but we can address that issue later.
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Callander & West Perthshire Firstly, apologies for not managing to get an article in the April and May issues of The Villagers. I was on leave around both deadlines, so I missed out on being able to provide one in time! We’ve had a busy few months and now that nicer weather is upon us, the numbers of visitors to the area has increased. The volume of traffic on the roads has also increased, and that brings additional challenges to deal with. Here is a breakdown of incidents that’s happened since my last report: • Overnight between the 24th and 25th March a theft occurred at a yard near to Mhor 84, Balquhidder. A digger bucket and a generator engine were stolen from the location. • Between the 1st April and the 3rd May a wall was damaged on Stronslaney Road, Balquhidder. It would appear that a vehicle has struck the wall and failed to report the damage. • On the 6th April, a male was charged on North Loch Earn and given a recorded police warning for a contravention of The Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Camping Management Byelaws 2017, in relation to a fire that he lit which caused damage to the area where he was camped. • On the 14th April, a fraud occurred in Lochearnhead whereby the victim purchased goods online and the perpetrator never sent the item. • Between the 1st and 3rd May, a theft occurred to a shipping container in Lochearnhead which is used to store all the Highland Games equipment. The container was forced open to allow access and items were stolen from within. • Between the 1st and 16th May, a property at Runacraig, Strathyre was broken into whilst the occupiers were on holiday and items were stolen from within. • On the 5th May, a hit and run RTC occurred on the A84 North of Strathyre. The offending vehicle was described as being black in colour and it struck another vehicle causing damage, and thereafter made off in the opposite direction and didn’t stop or provide their details. • On the 19th May, two males were charged at The Broch Carpark for a number of offences under The Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Camping Management Byelaws 2017 in relation to unauthorised camping within the management area, lighting a fire which caused damage and littering due to the mess they had made overnight. The following day, it was brought to the attention of the Police that the males had left the area and left all their belonging behind and as a result they will now be charged with fly tipping. This could turn out a costly trip for them, as the fine for fly tipping is a minimum of £200 and a maximum of £40,000! • On the 20th May, another two males were charged under The Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Camping
U3A
Management Byelaws 2017 in relation to unauthorised camping within the management area. The two males were camped at 1769 layby South of Immervoulin which is a location where no camping is allowed at any time. In addition to the camping, they had also been using controlled drugs and consuming alcohol within the Byelaw area. During this time, there have also been a number of collisions on the roads, some of which have resulted in serious injuries. One of the collisions on the A84 led to the road being closed between Callander and Lochearnhead for several hours on a Saturday afternoon. We appreciate that closing the road for any length of time is an inconvenience; however please understand that the road is only closed in the most serious of circumstances for two reasons. The first reason is to allow us to investigate the circumstances, and the second reason is to provide safety for all the emergency services on scene. To have people jumping road closures and arriving at scene not only risks our safety, but also hinders us providing often live saving treatment to casualties so I would ask for your patience and understanding. Anyone found jumping road closures may also be fined as a result. If anyone has any information surrounding any of the crimes of note that I’ve highlighted, please get in touch. As always, I can always be contacted on 101 or for those who prefer email, I can be contacted directly at william.diamond@ scotland.pnn.police.uk. Regards, PC Will Diamond
June is the month when almost all of our groups hold their last meetings and take a break; the session being rounded off with a grand BBQ and Barn Dance to be held in Gartmore Village Hall on Midsummer evening 21st June, from 7.0-10.30pm. The Riverside Ceilidh Band will provide the beat and Skinner of Kippen will serve the meat. Tickets at £15 are available from group leaders. A free bus will link the villages of Killin, Lochearnhead and Strathyre via Callander, Thornhill, Port of Menteith and Aberfoyle to Gartmore and back. Our AGM and Enrolment Day will be held at Callander Kirk Hall on Thursday 23 August from 2.004.00pm and further details will be published nearer the time. Keep up to date with news and photos on our website: Callander and Perthshire U3A.
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Balquhidder, Lochearnhead & Strathyre Community Council Minutes of a meeting (incorporating the Annual General Meeting) held at Strathyre Village Hall on 16th May 2018 Please note that these minutes have not yet received formal approval and should be considered as a draft version only. Present: Malcolm McNaughton (MM), Paul Hicks (PH), Loraine Telfer (LT), Adrian Squires (AS), David Johnston (DJ), Karen Methven (KM), Jeanette Stewart (JS), Richard Eastland (RE). Apologies: Ruth McLusky (RM), Angus Cameron (AC), Billy Ronald (BR), National Park. In attendance: Cllr Jeremy McDonald (JM), Theresa Elliot (TE), Stirling Council; PC Will Diamond (WD), Police Scotland. Three members of public from Balquhidder. 1) Approval of Minutes It was proposed by DJ and seconded by JS, that the minutes of the meeting on 4th April 2018 should be accepted and this was approved unanimously. 2) Declarations of Interest No declarations were made. 3) Police Report During the period from 4th April to 15th May, there were two incidents of anti-social behaviour. On 6th April, a male was charged under The Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Camping Management Byelaws, 2017, for setting a fire in a position likely to cause damage. He was issued with a warning as a result. On 3rd May 2018, damage was caused to a dry-stone dyke on Stroneslaney Road, Balquhidder. Anyone with information about this is asked to contact PC Diamond. Enquiries are being carried out in relation to two offences of fraud, one on 14th April and one on 9th May. WD encouraged everyone to be mindful of security and the need to be cautious when purchasing goods or services, especially online, using only reputable websites and means of transferring monies. Between 1-3 May 2018, a theft occurred at a locked container which is used to store Highland Games equipment in Lochearnhead. The container was forced open and a quantity of alcohol was stolen. Between 1st-15th May, a house at Strathyre was broken into and property was stolen. Anyone with information about these occurrences is asked to contact PC Diamond. Regarding motoring offences: one driver was reported to the Procurator Fiscal on 21st April for driving at 52mph through Lochearnhead whilst another was similarly reported on 6th May 2018 for driving at 53mph through Lochearnhead. On 5th May 2018, a collision occurred on the A84 near to Strathyre when a motor-home was struck by another vehicle. The other vehicle, described as a black car, failed to stop and drove off. The incident took place at about 6pm in the evening. During this reporting period, PC Diamond was on annual leave for three weeks, but attended at various events. On 9th May 2018, he attended Stirling Sheriff Court for the first trial relating to the new camping management bye-laws. As a result of the trial, two males pleaded guilty to breaching the camping bye-laws, one being in possession of drugs, but both of them fishing with illegal bait. One received a £350 fine and the other £300. On 13th May 2018, he attended at the Prestwick Search and Rescue Base to carry out familiarisation training with the new aircraft and its crew. On 18th May 2018, he was one of forty officers from across the country to attend a course in Edinburgh run by “Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture” (SASA). This is a division of the Scottish Government Agriculture and Rural Economy Directorate which hosts training for wildlife officers, aimed at enhancing skills in terms of forensics and health and safety considerations. It was a thoroughly worthwhile day. There were also several incidents involving the Mountain Rescue Team during this period, all of which were successfully resolved. JM mentioned that he had attended a Public Safety meeting recently where figures were circulated about the number of police officers attending community council meetings. The highest attendance on record was that of our own local officer, PC Diamond. MM proposed a vote of thanks to WD and this was warmly endorsed by all present. 4) Matters arising There were no matters arising from the previous meeting. 5) Planning Matters Erection of Holiday Let Unit, Balquhidder. AS advised that an application had been made to build a single-storey, three-bedroomed holiday lodge on land between Grianan and Tigh na Voil in Balquhidder, with parking space for three vehicles and access from the road. Some local residents had concerns about the proposal and wished to present these to the community council. AS explained that the CC was not competent to discuss technical details but could represent the wider concerns of the community. Comments were made about various aspects of the ruling from the planning authorities, notably the question of access to the proposed property. Residents believed that it would be difficult for approaching vehicles to see the property in good time and it was stated that there have been recent collisions or near misses here. It was also said that traffic on the single-track road here had increased significantly since 2010. AS mentioned that the new Local Development Plan and Visitor Experience Policy from the National Park Authority (NPA) envisaged the possibility of encouraging more tourism in this area, preferably with small-scale developments of the sort proposed. It was pointed out, however, that this is still a Special Conservation Area and JM asked if the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) had been involved. AS replied that they would certainly have been consulted, but had offered no comments. From what was said by the residents attending the meeting, it was evident that there is considerable strength of feeling against this application in the immediate local community, where it is regarded as a test case of an ‘in-fill’ site. The NPA has previously stated that no building will be allowed between single-track roads and the lochs but this goes against that stance. If it is allowed, the character of the area will change. Children will be less free to explore their environment. Locals would be happier if a residential home was being considered rather than a holiday let. There is concern about who will stay here and the likelihood of noisy activities that may take place. Concern was also expressed about the proposed sewage system and the possibility of overflow or seepage on to adjoining land between the development and Loch Voil. It was agreed that the environmental concerns regarding noise and sewage, together with the concerns over access to the property were material considerations that ought to be passed to the planning authorities for consideration. AS would prepare a suitable reply to submit before the consultation period expired on 18th May. Action: AS to submit comments on behalf of the council to the planners. 6) Annual General Meeting MM opened this section of the meeting by thanking the existing office-holders for their hard work over the past year. He commented on the cheerful enthusiasm and commitment of all members in their attendance at meetings and contributions to discussions. It had been a busy year with some significant issues to be tackled and a great deal had been achieved. KM added that this was due in no small part to the chair’s own rôle and example. MM then passed over the chairing of the meeting to Cllr JM. 7) Presentation of Accounts LT had prepared a statement of accounts for the past financial year, and had them reviewed by an independent auditor. These were presented for scrutiny and PH proposed that they should be accepted. This was seconded by DJ and approved unanimously. LT suggested sending a small mark of appreciation to the auditor and this was agreed. Action: LT to arrange for a token of appreciation to the auditor. 8) Appointment of Officers The following members stated their willingness to continue in office, and no other offers or proposals were made. Those listed below were proposed and seconded for specific rôles as follows: MM: Chair; (RM and KM) DJ: Deputy Chair; (MM and PH) LT: Treasurer; (PH and KM) PH: Secretary; (DJ and LT) AS: Planning Officer. (RM and MM) These appointments were agreed unanimously and JM then handed the chair back to MM for the rest of the meeting. 9) Bye-laws and clear-way. PH stated that the bye-laws were now fully enacted and working. The clearway had not yet come into existence but was simply awaiting final approval from the appropriate minister in the Scottish Government and no further input was required from the community council. DJ proposed that this item should be dropped as a standing item on the agenda henceforth. A final report on the clearway could be given in due course. This was seconded by PH and approved by all. Action: Item no longer to be included on agendas unless specifically required. 10) Electric Bicycle Stations LT stated that, recently, she had attended a meeting of the Loch Earn Tourist Initiative (LETI), at which the idea of setting up a system of electric bicycles for hire in our area had been put forward. LT had telephoned a company in Stirling that runs a similar scheme, but they were of the opinion that such schemes were only really viable in cities. It was agreed that this was an interesting concept, but it probably made better sense for a private company to take it on, rather than the community council. RE suggested that SusTrans might have some useful comments about such schemes in rural areas. 11) Correspondence 11a) Review of polling arrangements. PH reported that Stirling Council was undertaking a review of all polling districts and places within its area. Currently there are three ‘districts’, corresponding to each of the three villages within the community council area. The ‘polling places’ are the three village halls. Members commented that this arrangement seems to work well and all were content that it should continue unchanged. Action: PH to report back to Stirling Council. 11b) Laggan Farm, Strathyre - creation of woodland. PH reported having received a letter from SAC Consulting at Scotland’s Rural College, Stirling. It concerned a proposal to create an area of woodland immediately behind Laggan Farm to the South of Strathyre. The intention is to plant both native Scots Pine and native Upland Birch trees. This was discussed and members supported the proposal wholeheartedly. Action: PH to reply to SAC Consulting. 12) Matters From Councillors 12a) JM mentioned that Stirling Council was to make an award in relation to broadband services. Details will be circulated soon. 12b) JM then asked if there were any matters that members wished to raise and RE mentioned that grass verges are not being cut at Mhor 84 - by the steps from the bus stop down to the local Balquhidder Road. This route is used extensively by local children. JM agreed to investigate further. Action: JM to investigate grass cutting at Mhor 84. 13) Any Other Competent Business 13a) JS had received a complaint about trees overhanging pavements in Auchraw Brae at Lochearnhead. It was agreed that, before contacting Stirling Council, it might be better for JS to speak to the owner of the property concerned (the Clachan Hotel). Action: JS to speak to land owner. 13b) TE mentioned some forthcoming training opportunities for ‘participation request’ training in connection with the Community Empowerment Act, 2015. She also referred to a new social media platform (www.frog.net) that provides useful information about support services and well-being, focused on specific, geographical areas. Action: PH to circulate details of training. 13c) DJ reported having attended a training day for community councils on the new General Date Protection Regulation that comes into force on 25th May. He mentioned some specific points of note about the inclusion of names in minutes of meetings and the use of electronic circulation lists. As a result, it was agreed that the names and email addresses of community council members could be circulated freely amongst themselves, but other names should only be included on general circulations as ‘blind carbon copies’. 13d) KM had received a complaint about the number of signs in and around Balquhidder, in addition to the required road signs. The content varied from advertising houses and events to defining boundaries. Could anything be done to control the proliferation of such signs? PH suggested that planning permission would be required for most signs, but nobody was clear as to how this was enforced or by whom. Action: PH to make further enquiries. 13e) KM asked about the criteria for referring planning applications to the CC. JM stated that there is no agreed definition of a ‘public consultation’. Members agreed that there appears to have been a change of policy amongst planning authorities. Community councils are now expected to check online the published lists of recent applications and to single out those that may be of interest to the wider community. AS confirmed that he already did this regularly and referred any likely candidates to the Secretary for listing on the regular agenda. There was no other business and, at 9:20 p.m., MM declared the meeting closed. The next meeting is due to take place at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday 27th June 2018 at the Balquhidder Church Friendship Room.
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The Villagers’ Contacts Jill Johnston Editor Gardeners Cottage Balquhidder FK19 8PB 01877 384227
Gill Waugh Production Manager Stronvar Farm Balquhidder FK19 8PB 01877 384203
David Johnston Production Gardeners Cottage Balquhidder FK19 8PB 01877 384227
Other Contacts...
Andrew Poulter Advertising Coire A Chroine Balquhidder FK19 8PB 01877 384784
Copy Deadline Day is the 21st of the month. Send your contributions to: c o n t a c t @ t h e - v i l l a g e r s . o r g . u k
Please help us to get The Villagers to you as so on as possible!
Lochearnhead Contact: Ali Ferguson 01567 830 405 St Fillans Contact: Isobel Howell 07876 031768 Strathyre Contact: Wullie Dalziel 01877 384 384 Mobile 07768 221661 Mail Order Distribution: Andrea Poulter 01877 384784
DIARY DATES We e k l y A c t i v i t i e s Monday
Dynamic Meditation - Lochearnhead Village Hall - 10-11am - see page 18
Tuesday
Keep Fit - Lochearnhead Hall - 10.30 to11.30am Gaelic Playgroup - Balquhidder Hall - 10.30am to 12.30pm St Fillans Music Circle - Sandison Hall - 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Light lunch included. Contact John Light (01764 685307) / Malcolm Gregory (01764 670493). Country Dancing - St Fillans
Wednesday Yoga - Balquhidder Hall - 11.00am to 12noon (contact Ann Cobbett 01877 376291) Youth Club - Lochearnhead Hall - 7.00 to 9.00pm Thursday
Darts League - The Inn & Bistro - 7.00pm Choir Occasional is closed for the summer. Meeting again in September!
Friday
Playgroup - Lochearnhead Hall - 10.00am-12 noon (Contact Mel Brydie 01877 384668)
JUNE 2018
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Rock’n’Roll Bingo - Lochearnhead Hall - see page 5
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Hog Roast and Ceilidh - Balquhidder Village Hall - see page 2
JULY 2018
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Highland Games, Lochearnhead - see page 8
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Annual Charity Football Match - Lochearnhead - see page 8
Stephen Kerr MP 49 Borestone Crescent, Stirling FK7 9BQ 01786 475034 Councillor Martin Earl Stirling Council, Old Viewforth, Stirling FK8 2ET earlm@stirling.gov.uk 01786 233114 Councillor Evelyn Tweed Stirling Council, Old Viewforth, Stirling, FK8 2ET 01786 233101 Councillor Jeremy McDonald Stirling Council, Old Viewforth, Stirling, FK8 2ET 01786 233117
CHURCH SERVICES Balquhidder, Lochearnhead, Strathyre and St. Fillans CHURCH OF SCOTLAND
Balquhidder Parish Church Registered Charity No. SCO12316
Sundays 11.30am Minister: Rev Dr Russel Moffat The Manse, Main Street, Killin FK21 8TN revmoffat@gmail.com Dundurn Church, St Fillans Sundays 11.30am Minister: Rev Graham McWilliams Tel: 01764 671 045
ROMAN CATHOLIC Callander, St Joseph the Worker Sundays 11.30am Saturday Vigil Mass 5.30pm from May through to September Killin, in the Episcopal Church Sundays 2.30pm Father Jim McCruden 2 Ancaster Square, Callander Tel: 01877 330 702
SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH St Angus’s Church, Lochearnhead 1st Sunday each month: 11.30am Communion 2nd Sunday 5.30pm Evensong 3rd Sunday 11.30am Communion 4th Sunday 5.30pm Evensong 5th Sunday (if applicable) 5.30pm FOOD FOR THOUGHT
A reflective time to discuss contemporary issues in a spiritual context (Check with Rector for venue: 01764 655389)
Vestry Secretary - Maureen Lipscomb Tel: 01567 830234
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S U P P O RT Y OUR LOCAL S UP P LIERS !
Do you need an affordable home? Rural Stirling Housing Association aims to support local communities by providing quality homes at affordable rents for families, couples and single people in housing need. We currently have over 560 rented houses and flats. Around 40 of these become available for rent each year. We are in the process of building a further 23 flats in Callander and 12 flats & houses in Killearn. We currently have properties in the following communities: Aberfoyle • Doune • Kinlochard Stronachlachar • Balfron • Drymen Kippen • Tyndrum • Buchlyvie Gargunnock • Lochearnhead Callander • Gartmore • Strathblane Deanston • Killin • Strathyre We may be able to build in other communities in the future – please let us know if you want to live in a village that is not listed above. Information on local housing need and demand helps us plan for the future. If you are interested in renting one of our properties when they become available please contact us: Rural Stirling Housing Association Stirling Road, Doune FK16 6AA Telephone: 01786 841101 Email: enquiries@rsha.org.uk Registered as a Scottish Charity No. SC037849
Printed by Graphics and Print Services, University of Stirling Tel: 01786 467209 email: graphicsandprint@stir.ac.uk Published by The BLS Newspaper Association
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Success for Stirling Scho ols at the
Mini Stuc Hill Race
On Friday 4 May 10 primary schools took part in the Mini-Stuc hill race. The race is organised in partnership between Active Stirling and the Stuc a’ Chroin 5000 committee, who are responsible for organising the main adults race the following day. Around 70 pupils tackled the challenging one-mile route with some tough underfoot conditions during the race, which is now in its second year. The event saw primary 4 – 7 pupils from Aberfoyle, Callander, Crianlarich, Doune, Gartmore, Killin, Port of Menteith, Kincardine in Menteith, Thornhill and Strathyre Primary Schools taking part. For many of the children this was their first experience of hill running. After the success of the last two years, the race is well on its way to becoming a permanent fixture of the Stuc weekend. Strathyre Primary School took home two medals from the boy’s race with Ossian de Arkotxa Dougall crossing the finish line first and third place going to Tyler Gibson. While second place was taken by Tom Campbell from Callander Primary School. Mary Keely from Doune Primary School made a late dash to cross the finish line first. It was a close second for Elizabeth Woods and third was won by Niamh McKinlay, both from Aberfoyle Primary School. Aberfoyle Primary were the winning team and were presented with a shield donated by the Stuc a Chroin 5000 committee. Claire Peebles, Active Stirling Active Schools Co-ordinator said “Well done to all the pupils who took part in the race which was over a more challenging route than last year. Also, a special well done to all the medallists! We would also like to thank the Stuc a’ Chroin 5000 committee who helped facilitate the event and all the local volunteers from the village who supported by marshalling, taking pictures and organising catering for all the competitors.” There are plans to open the Mini-Stuc to secondary schools next year, with an additional event taking place in the afternoon.