3 10 156 https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/282/GlenkensGazette135.pdf 5c50b17cfcb0c36678bb22b74b45914b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 135 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document April/May 2023 ISSUE 135 Dalry School Raise £1,000 for Earthquake Relief P upils, staff, parents and friends of Dalry Primary and Secondary Schools have raised close to £1,000 to support children affected by the recent earthquake in the Middle East. INSIDE THIS ISSUE CatStrand Youth Players Win Big at Drama Festival ...see page 23 The money raised at the schools' fund raising day will be sent to ‘Mary’s Meals’ earthquake appeal. The charity already works in Syria providing meals for children. Following the earthquake their partner organisation there has been able to respond quickly in the provision of food aid. It costs £19.15 to feed a child for a whole school year. "A huge thank you to everyone who supported this event,” says Sue St Joseph, one of the teachers who organised the FREE event. “We had a fantastic day! As well as raising funds for the earthquake appeal, it was great to be able to have a community event in school again after so long. So good to see you all; so good to have the primary and secondary pupils working together; but best of all, so good to see the young people enjoying themselves whilst raising funds for such a good cause." Members of the community browse fundraising stalls manned by pupils in fancy dress If you would like to contribute, donations can be handed in or posted to the school at Kirkland Street, Dalry DG7 3UX. Cheques should be made payable to 'Dalry School'. Knockengorroch Festival's 25th Anniversary Turn to page 2 to find out more... Glenkens Hub: New Site for News T his April sees the launch of the brand new Glenkens Hub website. As the Gazette's online and up-to-the-minute sister publication, the Hub offers events listings, betweenissue news articles, a community noticeboard, local business directory, useful information such as shop opening times, amenities and visitor attractions, details of groups and organisations and more. But this is still a work in progress and what we really need is your help. We need you to visit the Hub and have a look around - tell us what you think. Have we covered everything? Is it easy to navigate? Do you have any suggestions? Please visit www.glenkens.scot and contact Hub editor, Gail, with your views at glenkenshub@hotmail.co.uk We look forward to hearing from you! The Glenkens Gazette Team Help Carsphairn Heritage Centre Celebrate 30 Years Get in touch to be included in the "30 for 30" exhibition... Page 11 News from the communities of Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Corsock, Crossmichael, Kirkpatrick Durham, Laurieston, Mossdale, New Galloway, Parton and St John’s Town of Dalry GAZETTEnews Knockengorroch Festival's 25th Anniversary Glenkens Gazette K nockengorroch in Carsphairn is Scotland’s longest running greenfield festival. This year it celebrates 25 years, featuring an array of amazing acts from across Scotland and the world as well as some very special initiatives to celebrate its quarter of a century birthday! page 2 delighted to announce a brand new commission. The Real Merlin Project is a Knockengorroch commission to create new music inspired by the truth behind the myth of the character Merlin. According to mythology, 'Myrddin' was a poet to a Welsh king. In the year 573, at a battle near Carlisle, the talking to the birds, the beasts, his apple tree and his little pig. In the twelfth century this character was recast and more commonly known as Merlin, King Arthur's wizard. The music creation, featuring vocals in four languages, Northumbrian pipes, harp, guitar, percussion and piano will take place online, with Taking place from 25-28 May the festival’s 25th year will feature an enhanced line-up, welcoming back acts from its very first event in 1998 alongside exciting new artists from Scotland, the UK and beyond. Festival, as part of the 25th anniversary celebrations, before touring the UK and Ireland in July and September. In the coming months Knockengorroch will be announcing a new communityled food growing venue and further special events. A new transport initiative, kindly supported by Dumfries & Galloway Major Events Strategy Fund, will provide a regular shuttle bus service from Carsphairn to the site, to relieve the amount of traffic travelling to the festival. Acts include the 11-piece French dub collaboration Zentone (High Tone + Zenzile), Scottish trad pioneers Old Blind Dogs, the energetic and infectious Cut Capers, Malian powerhouse Rokia Kone and Glasgow’s international superstars Mungo’s Hi Fi. The event is expected to sell out this year but tickets are currently available. For those who can prove residence in Carsphairn, Dalry, New Galloway or Balmaclellan, locally priced tickets are available to buy over the counter at Carsphairn shop. This year vehicle tickets must also be bought in advance to gain entry to the site. The site comprises eight venues, family activity areas and camping sites, all set amongst the Carsphairn hills. The festival asks all locals where possible to leave their cars behind and catch the shuttle bus in from Carsphairn. As well as the enhanced lineup, with more names to be announced, Knockengorroch is king was killed and Myrddin went mad. In his madness, he acquired the gift of prophecy and lived as a wild man in the Southern Scotland Forest, Can You Help Carsphairn SWI? M any of you will have seen the wall hanging in Lagwyne Hall in Carsphairn. It represents a rich part of Carsphairn’s heritage in needle work and was created by women of the area together. Annikki Lindsay co-ordinated the piece to commemorate Carsphairn Scottish Women's Institute's 60th Anniversary in 1997. Its thirty five panels were done individually then brought together by Annikki to musicians gathering twice in Corsock for in-person rehearsals. The piece will be performed live for the first time at Knockengorroch For further information visit www.knockengorroch.org.uk form the wall hanging you now see. We have been looking into the people and the stories behind each panel. By talking to people we have been able to identify a number of the panels and establish their creator. However, there are still panels which we are yet to learn about. The purpose of this gathering of information is to put together a short pamphlet to accompany the wall hanging which reminds us now and in the future of the people and stories behind the panels. If you can tell us anything about one or more of the numbered panels, please get in touch by emailing carsphairnswi@gmail.com or phoning Christine on 01644 460 577. Christine Whipp Pictured is the hanging with each panel numbered for easy identification GAZETTEnews Glenkens Gazette page 3 Citizens Advice Glenkens Drop-ins WE WILL BE AT THE CATSTRAND FROM 10AM TO 4PM EVERY 2ND TUESDAY FROM TUESDAY 4TH APRIL D umfries and Galloway Citizens Advice Service will be holding drop-ins across the Glenkens on a fortnightly basis. Initially these will be every other Tuesday at the CatStrand, New Galloway, 10am till 4pm, from Tuesday 4th April. "We can offer help with benefits, employment, housing, debt, energy, consumer and more," says outreach advisor Fiona. There will also be outreach sessions at Castle Douglas Citizens Advice Bureau, 3 St Andrew Street, on Wednesdays from 10am to 12.30pm and 1pm to 4pm for appointments and a drop-in service, and Fridays from 9.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4pm for appointments only. To arrange an appointment at any of these Castle Douglas sessions please call 0300 303 4321 or email info@dagcas.org Plant and Bake Sale Fundraiser Galloway Glens: T with emergency medical services through the provision of helicopter ambulances. All proceeds from the sale will be for Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance who assist the Scottish Ambulance Service Teas, lots of homebaking and a large selection of plants – herbaceous, annuals, vegetable and salad seedlings – will be available from 10am to 12 noon. his year’s Plant and Bake Sale at St Margaret’s, New Galloway ,will be held on Saturday 29 April. Glenkens Cub Scouts T he Glenkens Cub Scouts celebrated Burns Night with a table laden with Scottish food. T he Galloway Glens Scheme has been supporting a whole range of projects up and down the Ken/Dee Valley over the last five years, trying to ‘connect people to our heritage’ while boosting the local economy and supporting sustainable communities. How did we do? All feedback - positive and negative – is welcomed as we aim to compile the results of the scheme and look to build on this for future initiatives. The Cubs were challenged to entertain the Leaders with either a Scottish poem, song or instrument and we were not disappointed. We are running a short public survey and one lucky person who completes the survey will win a £50 delicatessen voucher. Please do complete it www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/R3XGV36 - the deadline for completion is Friday 28 April. Thank you, McNabb Laurie, Galloway Glens Team Leader Freya played the recorder and recited a poem titled Street Talk. Danny also played the recorder and recited The Hen's Lament. Elliot played the guitar. Bella had a poem – My Wee Doggie. Caitlin sang Gallowa' Hills and had a lovely poem called My Cuddy. Leo gave us a tune on the mouth organ and recited My Wee Rid Motor. To finish off, a parent read a story called Clan Mingan. The Cubs would like to say a huge "congratulations" to Cub Leader Bagheera on being awarded Maker of the Year at the UK Heritage Crafts Awards. The Glenkens Cub Scout pack are very proud of your achievements – well done! How Did We Do? [Bagheera - Hannah McAndrew - is a local potter and you can read more about her award on page 22.]. Pictured is a card which the Cubs all signed to congratulate Bagheera. Heather Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEnews page 4 Glenkens Community Shop Needs You! T he Glenkens Community Shop opened nearly eleven years ago, and is flourishing. So much so that we need a few more volunteers! Over this time the Community Shop has given out nearly £70,000, helping to support many groups and individuals who play such a vital role in our Glenkens community. We can only open, with anything approaching our preCovid availability, with more volunteers. Even if you can offer one three-hour session a month that would be really helpful. We’re an exceptionally friendly group. We welcome volunteers of all ages and this could be a perfect opportunity to gain some practical experience for school leavers and provide references where required. Shifts are three hours long, and usually involve biscuits. New volunteers are always paired with those with experience, and we usually have at least two people on at any one time. If you’re interested just pop into the shop for a chat with current volunteers and pick up an application form. Or you can phone 07904 678 599 to find out more or to leave an email address and we will email an application form to you. All of us volunteers really enjoy our time in the shop – it’s a great way to meet people and serve the community and also support some of the incredibly varied groups and projects in the Glenkens. At our funding allocation meeting on 29 of November 2022 we were able to disburse funding totalling £6,905 to the following individual and group applicants: Sean Campion, Balmaclellan Village Hall Trust, New Galloway Junior Golf Club, Miriam Stevenson, Caitlin Constantine, Spalding Bowling Club, Friends of Dalry School, Dalry Friendship Group, The Glenkens Choir, LING, Dalry Community Group, Loch Ken Trust, Mossdale Painters, Dalry Good Neighbours Club, Glenkens Community Centre Management Committee Grant distribution happens twice annually and we welcome applications for the next round of funding. The closing date for this is 31 May 2023 and application forms will be available in the shop or by phoning 07904 678 599. Grants are for sums of up to £500, and applicants should be either interest groups based in the Glenkens or individuals with projects which will benefit the Glenkens community. Hope to see you soon, The Glenkens Community Shop Volunteer Team Community Shop Opening Times Mon, Tue & Thu 10am-1pm Wed, Fri & Sat: 10am-4pm Glenkens & District Trust Seeks Trustees T he Glenkens & District Trust (GDT) is looking for new trustees to support its work distributing Community Benefit Funds. GDT distribute funds to support groups in the Community Council areas of Balmaghie, Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham, Crossmichael and District, St Johns Town of Dalry, Dunscore, Glencairn, New Galloway & Kells Parish and Parton. Since 2019 145 grants have been awarded to community groups across the area of benefit. This is a rewarding volunteer role that will help shape the direction of GDT as it continues to ensure that funds coming into the area have the greatest possible impact, both now and in the future. When asked about his reasons for volunteering, Matthew Sheddon, an Independent Trustee, said “GDT appealed to me because I get to see and enable many exciting community projects, transforming community benefit monies into opportunities to generate long-term prosperity.” GDT wants the Trustee group to be diverse and inclusive and are keen to have people from across the area of benefit represented. They are particularly interested in hearing from people with a background in finance or community development, and people of working age, but anyone who is passionate about giving their time to serve the community and engage actively with GDT’s purposes is sure to thrive in the role. To find out more, request a copy of the Trustee recruitment pack or to arrange an informal chat about the role with a current Trustee, please contact Chris at info@glenkenstrust.org.uk GAZETTEnews Glenkens Gazette page 5 Houston, We Have Lift In! N ew Galloway Town Hall at long last can boast a state-of-the-art lift, bringing us up to date with a newer, more accessible world. Ronnie Bradford, Local Initiatives In New Galloway (LING) project officer, can vouch for having actually ridden up and down in it. The rest of us will have to wait a little longer, but it is such an exciting milestone to have reached. As Ronnie put it when he talked to a packed house at our AGM, so far we have been taking things apart in the Town Hall. Now we are beginning to put things back together – but better than before. There is so much activity, but many delays, and we are behind schedule. We’re T he Connecting in Communities (CiC) team at Glenkens Communities & Arts Trust (GCAT) have been continuing to deliver a diverse programme of events aimed at bringing people together across the Glenkens and district. You can see the full April/ May programme on page 32, on www.gcat.scot and on our social media channels. There are lots of new activities to try – if you fancy your hand at dancing there's The Rat Pack Tea Dance on 14 April and a new Spanish Dance Class on 22 April. Or if you're a mum with kids in tow, how about getting out and about with Breeze Cycle Rides on 29 April? Our CiC games activities now working on an assumption of opening up in May with a series of community events, culminating in a Ceilidh. In June, we have a wonderful offer from Geoff Davidson to stage a fund raising concert for us. This will be an event not to be missed. At Glynne Shackleton’s suggestion, we’re going to be placing a time capsule in the building and the children at Kells Primary have already produced some writing for us for us to include. Suggestions of other things to include in a time capsule are very welcome, so please put on your thinking caps, and write us a poem, find an old photograph, or have a rummage. We’d love to include a wide range of interesting and unexpected mementos to be re-discovered many years hence. Ann Glaister include the ever-popular CiC Games Night at the CatStrand (where the bar will be open), the Boccia Club (indoor boules) and the Glenkens and District Community Drama Group is now up and running. Family Drama takes place on the last Sunday of the month at the Smiddy, and Menopause Really Matters is a welcoming support group that has an informative guest speaker each month. something you might like to apply for, you can find the job ad on the back page or visit www.gcat.scot/jobs Or come along to the Pudding Fan Club at the CatStrand on 24 April where the wonderful Mr Pook and his team will be demonstrating vegan and veggie puds. The more behind-the-scenes work of CiC lies in supporting volunteers and volunteer organisations. This area is now headed by volunteer extraordinare Martin Warnock, so for any ideas, thoughts or to volunteer your time please contact him on martin@ catstrand.com Our Glenkens Pub Quiz Nights are proving very popular - they often sell out now, so do book in advance for a fun social evening. As well as our regular programme we are busy planning the Glenkens Food Month, for which the theme this year is celebrating ‘Foods for All’ - get in touch to get involved! We are supporting the Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA) to recruit potential childminders in the area (see p7 for more info). We were thrilled to hear we received funding from Third Sector Dumfries & Galloway from their Community Mental Health & Wellbeing Fund for a year’s worth of community activities in the area. We are recruiting for a Community Activities Officer so if this is Dancers enjoying a previous Tea Dance in Dalry Town Hall Finally, my work on the Glenkens and District consultation report is at an end and I will be feeding back my findings at an event later in April – date still to be confirmed. I’d like to give a heartfelt "thank you" to our funders for their continued support of Connecting in Communities - the Blackcraig Wind Farm through Foundation Scotland and the Glenkens & District Trust and the National Lottery - you’ve been instrumental in enabling CiC to be the success it is today. You can find the full CiC programme of activities for April/May on page 32, or for further information email jo@ catstrand.com, call 01644 420 374 or visit www.gcat.scot/ cic-learning-and-wellbeingworkshop-programme Lisa Ridley, Connecting in Communities Project Lead Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEnews page 6 Energy Efficiency Report Commissioned T he aim of making community buildings in the Glenkens more sustainable has taken a step forward. This is thanks to a grant awarded to Glenkens Communities & Arts Trust from the Scottish Government's 'Community Led Vision' fund to carry out energy efficiency assessments on 11 community halls in the area. Engineers from Natural Power Consultants visited the buildings in early March to meet with representatives of the management committees alongside Glenkens Community Spaces Network Facilitator, Becca Nelson, who has been coordinating the project. As well as giving advice on the day, the NPC engineers will create a report for each building, detailing the best ways to improve the efficiency of the buildings and giving all the technical rationale behind it. There will also be similar work done on some typical houses in the area, to advise homeowners/landlords. Findings will be presented at a public event in late April. It is expected that the report will provide all the technical detail required when community venues then apply for capital funding to implement the suggestions. By assessing so many buildings at the same time, it also presents the opportunity to approach contractors collectively in order to make the work more attractive and perhaps more economical. This work on energy efficiency fits well with the aims of the Glenkens Community Spaces Network, a group created, thanks to funding from the Blackcraig wind farm, in order to support the management Glenkens Producers' Market committees of community venues in the Glenkens by finding ways in which to work together to reduce costs and duplication of effort. Becca commented: "Our meetings allow the opportunity for Management Committee members to share successes and discuss issues, and it's been great to see the beginnings of a support network springing up. I hope that this new report will also take some of the load off them and help them make the step change in capital improvements in energy efficiency." Natural Power engineers with members of Mossdale Village Hall management committee after completing energy assessment If you are involved with running a community venue and have not yet heard from me yet, please do get in touch - becca.glenkens.anf@gmail. com) - to find out more. The next Network meeting will be Tuesday 23 May. Hope to see you there! Becca Nelson, Glenkens Community Spaces Network Facilitator WRIGHTS STORE & POST OFFICE DALRY DALRY DALRY SWEET TREAT SATURDAY DALRY INFORMATION FRESH CREAM CAKES AVAILABLE TO ORDER OPENING HOURS MONDAY – FRIDAY 7.30am – 5.30pm SATURDAY 8.30am – 5pm SUNDAY 8.30am – 3pm LOCAL SUPPLIERS DALMELLINGTON COUNTRY BUTCHERS 2nd Saturday Monthly Dalry Town Hall, 10am-1pm - 8th April & 13th May - ...fresh vegetables, baked goods, preserves, bread, fresh meat, smoked products, cheese, artisan cider, chocolates, handmade crafts, gift cards, plants... * Save Fuel - Shop Local * UPPER DULLARG EGGS MITCHELLS FRUIT & VEG SWEETCAKES BAKERY GLENKENS HONEY COMPANY CREAM O GALLOWAY GALLOWAY LODGE PRESERVES IRVINGS BAKERY SCOTTISH GALLOWAY PASTA GLENKENS HONEY COMPANY Want to know what’s going on? Then visit www.dalrytownhall.co.uk POP IN FOR A CHAT AND A BROWSE GAZETTEnews Men's Shed What's Happening at the Men's Shed Opening Times Glenkens Gazette I t is with a heavy heart that the Men’s Shed has accepted the resignation of founder, Brian Jones from the committee. Brian has recently taken retirement from the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust and as a result has found himself busier than he has ever been! We are pleased that he will remain as a member but he will be sorely missed on the management committee. The Shed membership has been hit since Covid and the committee have taken steps to attract new people. The first step has been to extend our opening hours to include the first and third Saturday mornings in the page 7 month for those who work. We have also arranged with the Glenkens Art Workshop to support the group through hosting their weekly meetings at the Shed on a Thursday afternoon - any budding artists are welcome to come along! Our 'social secretary', Walter, is investigating social outings for all interested members and their partners. More details to follow on our Facebook page and website - you can find us on Facebook @ The Glenkens Men’s Shed or at www. glenkens-mens-shed. org.uk The Shed is currently in negotiation with the Pamela Young Trust for the renovation of some benches in Dalry Park. If anyone is interested in this community Local Childminding Training Extended The Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA) is embarking on the second phase of a major campaign to recruit new registered childminders in the Glenkens. The special campaign is kindly supported by Blackcraig Wind Farm Community Fund, Foundation Scotland and Glenkens & District Trust. If you are looking to get back into work, or are thinking of a starting a rewarding new career, please visit www.childminding.org/childminder-recruitment to find out more about becoming a professional childminder and the personalised support package we can put in place to help. Leanne Paton project, please get in touch. We have applied for a grant from Age Scotland to upgrade our pillar drill, purchase a router table and some stools. We also have a replacement milling machine which means our metal working room is being used much more frequently. We have been given the use of Bill Wiseman’s portable forge, and he is hoping to hold a demonstration session in the coming months. Why not pop along to the Shed for a visit? We're situated behind the old Smiddy in Balmaclellan. Enjoy a tea/coffee and a biscuit put the world to rights and see what goes on - we'd love to see you! Tom Leach, Secretary Glenkens Men's Shed MONDAY 9.30am - 12.30pm WEDNESDAY 9.30am - 12.30pm Wood Carving 2-4pm Come along and work on any project you want - our resident expert Bill is on hand with advice THURSDAY Art Group 2-4pm Work on your own creation in any medium in a friendly environment FRIDAY 9.30am - 12.30pm SATURDAY 9am - 12noon GAZETTEhousing Glenkens Gazette page 8 Forum Reveals Scale of Glenkens Housing Needs S ome 40 people attended the Glenkens Housing Forum in early February to hear the results of the 2022 Housing Needs Survey and the options for housing in the Glenkens. The event at the Balmaclellan Smiddy, hosted by the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust and supported by the Glenkens District Trust, included a presentation from South of Scotland Community Housing (SoSCH) on recent innovations in rural housing. principally because of heating costs, lack of space and the poor condition of the buildings. Insecurity of tenure was also mentioned. Other key findings revealed that half of those responding knew of someone leaving a household through lack of suitable accommodation. Two in five believed they would be in need of new housing in the next five years, and, in an interesting insight into work patterns, two thirds had need for a workspace at home. This could include yard or shed spaces as well as home offices. The HNDA concluded there was a need for housing that is This is exacerbated by the post-Covid surge in demand for second homes, a shrinking private rental market and the unintended consequences of energy efficiency legislation and its impact on the rental sector. Alan Smith, spoke on behalf of the Pamela Young Trust (PYT) which owns 22 properties in the Glenkens which are available for rent to anyone with a Glenkens connection. There is currently a waiting list of 27*. In a typical year, few, if any, houses become available as PYT tenants tend to stay very longterm. As properties become vacant energy efficiency measures are installed but this can be difficult and expensive in older traditional properties. The PYT has several ideas at the feasibility study stage including erecting three homes on a brownfield site purchased in Balmaclellan and the potential development of former hydro houses at Glenlee, currently owned by SPEN. The availability of housing The Glenkens in the Glenkens is extremely Housing limited and is affecting the Needs and Demands Assessment sustainability of communities. (HNDA) was carried out between November 2021 and March 2022. Despite Covid restrictions on public events, 146 responses were received from a population of 3,000 - a return of some 5%. The report included a survey of local employers and a review of housing association waiting lists. A quarter of those replying (27%) said their current housing didn't meet their needs, affordable, fuel efficient and low cost to run, whether redeveloping existing properties or new build. The availability of housing in the Glenkens is extremely limited and is affecting the sustainability of communities. The challenges for the Glenkens, like all rural D&G communities, includes the shortage of housing with affordable running costs for rent or purchase. N ew Galloway Golf Club Founded Foun ded 1902 www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk - 01644 420737 Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Mike Staples, chief executive of SoSCH, gave an inspirational presentation of what has been achieved in other communities in creating highquality community housing by repurposing old buildings or creating new-builds. This includes imaginative re-use of derelict land or buildings such as hotels and even an old police station. It became clear that there are many sources of advice available. There are also funding sources for developments which meet all the criteria expected of a modern energy efficient project. But the other ingredients include time - three years appeared to be the minimum time scale and five years more typical between idea and the key in the door - and there have to be people with time, expertise and energy locally to foster the initiative and then engage with other agencies, experts and funders. A full report of the event is available on the new Glenkens Hub website at www.glenkens.scot or for more information contact Mike Staples of South of Scotland Community Housing at mike. sosch@outlook.com * by the time of going to press the figure had risen to 29. Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEhousing page 9 Evictions in the Glenkens F our weeks before the Glenkens Housing Forum reported on the scale of the local crisis (see opposite page) the urgency of the issue was highlighted by eviction notices being served on a group of nine local residents. The tenants, occupying five houses and flats at the Kenmure Steadings, south of New Galloway, were phoned by the landlord’s agent on Friday 13 January and told they would shortly receive eviction notices the following week. Letters giving notice of eight or twelve weeks were subsequently issued though some of the tenants are questioning the process used. The Scottish Government, shortly afterwards, extended the current embargo on most categories of evictions until the end of October, giving the tenants more time to consider options. The tenants had had no indication that the landlord, Major General (ret’d) Jamie Gordon, had been planning to sell the properties. Some of the tenants had just completed improvements at their own expense and with the landlord’s approval. Major General Gordon told the Galloway News that he had “…not taken the decision lightly.” He went on to say “…the raft of legislation and standards the Scottish Government has brought in means it is becoming too difficult and expensive for me to provide the standard of accommodation as required by law.” New Galloway and Kells Community Council, on behalf of the tenants, arranged a Zoom meeting with the landlord. At the council’s February meeting, attended by the tenants and numerous supporters from the community, it was reported the the landlord had agreed to consider any proposals for a community purchase of the property but had made clear he wanted a quick sale. In the course of a discussion among councillors and public at the meeting, the tenants were advised to move quickly to seek expert advice and wider support for their case from politicians and relevant organisations. On 13 March the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust facilitated a meeting of tenants and local groups and experts to discuss further action. It was reported that the youngest three members of the nine had decided to leave the area since they saw no potential options in the short term. The remaining six led by Steve Petch and Andy Fletcher have pursued numerous sources of information and are working to identify some organisation which could act as a vehicle for a purchasing initiative. Steve Petch subsequently approached local MSP Finlay Carson for support. Mr Carson has written to the landlord expressing the hope that a community buy-out could be arranged. The Community Council has written to the landlord seeking an indication of the price he would be asking for the properties. No replies have been received at the time of going to press. Eviction Rap No warning in the morning: a teatime call Nothing to prepare us for imminent fall No “sit down love” no “brace yourself pet” No “didn’t see this one coming, I’ll bet” No “regret to inform you” no “sorry for your plight” Entire neighbourhood evicted? Wait, this can’t be right? Encroaching numbness, stunned disbelief Moments of anger dissolving in grief Suffocating panic, anxiety soaring Where once we had lives, we have instead tears pouring Chaos, uncertainty, and nowhere to go Not in this economy, and housing crisis woe To find ourselves homeless? Utterly shocking Letting agent smug, condescending and mocking Unlucky for some? Isn’t that what they say? But Friday the 13th? Could have picked a better day? Look not for compassion: it’s not theirs to give Indifferent to the hell in which they’ve forced us to live These are our homes: our hearts reside here Our tiny community united in fear Mercilessly mercenary, how can this be? Expendable, pocket-money commodities are we? Money talks for sure, but listen: we scream Circumstances dire, heartbreaking and obscene Too heartsick to eat, too frantic to sleep If only we could find a way: our homes to keep? This poem was written by one of the evicted tenants shortly after receiving the phone message GAZETTEpeople Glenkens Gazette page 10 St Margaret's New Priest Settles In T he Reverend Dawn Matthew and her husband Nick, together with their family, have now settled into the Rectory in New Galloway. Dawn says; “Although we’ve only been here a few weeks, we’re already beginning to feel like part of this wonderful community and we look forward to playing our part in that welcome and community spirit in the times to come”. As well as St Margaret’s, Dawn will also be ministering to All Saints’ Challoch and a joint and viable service plan is being considered by all concerned. In order for Dawn to be present in both churches every Sunday, there will be some changes in service times, initially on a trial basis. After Easter, it is advisable to check www. stmargaretsnewgalloway.org or the noticeboard outside the church, for up-todate information. Another service offering being considered is a midweek gathering on Wednesday mornings. This would be an informal and simple shared group. If anyone would be interested in joining or finding out more, please call Dawn on 01644 420431. included the presentation of symbols of ministry to Dawn by members of the congregation and community. And after the service, the St Margaret’s Guild hosted a tea party enjoyed by all in attendance. The Licensing Service for Dawn took place recently with the Right Revd Kevin Pearson, Bishop of Glasgow and Galloway, officiating. The service New Locum Minister for Glenkens Churches M ost folk will be aware that the Glenkens Churches (Dalry, New Galloway, Balmaclellan and Carsphairn) have not had a full-time Minister due to retirement since August 2022. Whenever possible within the Church of Scotland, at the request of the sessions and congregations, a Locum is appointed during the Vacancy to help ensure there are regular Sunday services, do pastoral cover – which includes such events as funerals, weddings and baptisms – school services and any other relevant event which requires the presence of ‘The Meenister’. Those who have been able to attend any of the churches since the first Sunday of Advent, 27 November 2022, will have already seen that the position of Locum has been ‘filled’, by me. ‘Me’ being Rev Pam Bellis – an OLM (Ordained Local Minister) within the Church of Scotland, who moved to Kirkcudbright in October 2021. Since arriving in the post, I have been trying to find my way about the Charge, and get to know different people on my travels. Taking regular services, up to and including Christmas ones which included all the local schools attending the church for the first time since before the dreaded pandemic, as well as, sadly funerals of local folk. Those who have already met me have as likely met my sidekick – Aria, an eight-year-old black Labrador. She enjoys being in the car, and in church when logistics allow. As those who have already met her, well you know she loves meeting folk. I have ‘done’ ministry in a number of guises for more years than I care to think about – both in Scotland and England – ranging from formal church services to different chaplaincies – including hospitals, schools and since November 2021 as one of the Veterans Chaplains in Scotland. VCS finally came live then (as with so much, the pandemic delayed its start-up) - and I was one of the initial 12 deployed – currently 18 of us – throughout Scotland. An initiative started by padres who had seen active service and now fully endorsed by the MOD, various main stream churches, the Scottish Government and various relevant charities. Things being as they are within the churches, and I’m referring here not just to the Church of Scotland (Scotland’s national church) but other denominations, there seems to be not enough full-time Ministers to fill all the current vacancies. This means that someone filling a ‘temporary’ role such as I am cannot say – ‘oh, as the Locum I will only be here a few months’ – it’s very much a case of the future of the Glenkens Charge being in God’s hands. In the meantime, I will continue doing Sunday services, and other pastoral services as required, be they in one of the four churches, or visiting homes and schools. In the immediate future this means of course Easter, for we are currently travelling through Lent. This year we will be able to be present at all four churches over the Easter weekend, one way or another - you can find service times in the Church section on page 31. Your Minister may have retired but the work of the church continues. As Christians we are not promised an easy life – but as Christians we know we have been promised Eternal Life. I hope and pray, as we move through these changing times, while the cogs of the church turn to a position where the congregations are able to ‘Call’ a new minister for the Parish, that I will get to meet more of you along the way, journeying to build up Christ’s church where we live, work and pray. Rev Pam Bellis, 07751 379 249, pam@bellisconsultancy.co.uk Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEpeople page 11 The Adventures of Kenside Polo K enside Polo is a pedigree English goat born and bred in the Glenkens, and she's gained quite a name for herself over the past year. "Polo was used as part of the publicity advertising the 2022 Royal Highland Show and to launch their new app," says Polo's owner, Irene McCreath, from Polquhanity Farm outside Carsphairn. Polo won the Sharpeyed Salver, presented by the breed society (English Goat Breeders Association) for the most points gained at shows in 2022. "We had a pretty good year with the shows, both live and online. Our big lad, Zorro, was Best Male and reserve overall in the EGBA National Show too." Pictured is Polo in front of Edinburgh Castle. Next issue we'll see what else Polo visited on her big day out in Edinburgh...it sounds like quite an adventure! New Faces for LING Gazette Deliveries L ING is delighted to welcome two new recruits - Jackie Wells and Zoe Thomas. Jackie will be our new Community Inclusion Worker, taking over from Angie Bradford. Angie is still very kindly helping out occasionally, but has been head-hunted to work more hours in Dalry School. Jackie has launched straight into her role with great enthusiasm. Some of you will know her already from Balmaclellan shop. She is working with us as we ready ourselves for re-opening the Town Hall as soon as possible and in the meantime is re- establishing LING Lunches as a first priority. We are very pleased indeed to be able to have her with us. She will be working closely with and supporting Zoe Thomas, who takes up the role of Community Hub Host, as we start up a 'warm hub' session using Kitty’s as our initial venue until the Town Hall becomes available. Again, we are delighted to have Zoe, who applied for the post, having worked as a volunteer at LING Lunches. Many thanks to those others who enquired about or applied for the positions and we’ll hope to be keeping in touch. Pictured below are Jackie Wells (left) and Zoe Thomas (right). If you live rurally in the Glenkens, you may well have met Gary Edington, our Gazette delivery driver. Thanks to funding from Fred Olsen Renewables and the Galloway Glens Scheme, we are able to deliver to Gazettes to outlying households across the area. So if you see him, say "hi"! First Lamb of 2023 First lamb of the year born in Carsphairn parish was at Polquhanity Farm on 22 February 2023, photo taken by Billy McCreath of Polquhanity Farm, Carsphairn. Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEenvironment page 12 In Pursuit of a Land Use Vision B ack in October 2022, the Glenkens was selected to take part in a Community Learning Programme (CLP) around Land Use, sponsored by the South of Scotland Enterprises (SOSE) as part of the South of Scotland Regional Land Use Partnership. The Community Learning Programme was delivered by the Social Enterprise Academy to the Glenkens and three other regions across Scotland, and aimed to help each community understand their Vision for land use in the area and to make sure that all voices were heard in the process. It started with two nationwide webinars, which provided great inspiration about what communities across Scotland are doing in the way of land use, and then continued in each region with six online sessions aimed at understanding the local issues and teasing out a Vision for the area. They were open to all, and about 30 people took part for the Glenkens series. This then culminated in an event at the end of January for all CLP participants, Community Council representatives, representatives of national agencies, the Biosphere, SOSE and the Sottish Government Land Use team. The visitors to the area were given a tour of the land use changes currently happening in the Glenkens, and then the groups came together to review the draft Vision and work up local, regional and national Recommendations for what they saw as necessary to make the Vision a reality. It was a most constructive and positive session, well facilitated by the Social Enterprise Academy and hosted at the CatStrand by GCAT. The next steps are to finalise the Vision and Recommendations based on feedback from this event. This will be done by a small Working Group and the final Vision and Recommendations will be published in the next Gazette. It is hoped that the final version of the Vision will be adopted by the Glenkens and district Community Action Plan Steering Group as a useful addendum to Attendees at the Land Use evening event at the CatStrand the Community Action Plan. You can find the final-draft Vision and Recommendations on the new Glenkens Hub website www.glenkenshub. co.uk under Resources. Feedback, until the middle of April, is most welcome - email helen@catstrand.com Helen Keron, Executive Manager, GCAT Funding Appeal by Pylon Opponents G alloway Without Pylons (GWP) is a local action group set up to "protect our beautiful part of Dumfries and Galloway from being blighted by 118 giant pylons over 32.5 kilometres, running between Glenlee and Tongland". Here is an update from Paul Swift, Chair of GWP: This pylon line, proposed by Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) - who are owned by the Spanish energy conglomerate Iberdrola - cuts through the Galloway Forest Park close to major tourist attractions such as the Queensway Crossing, Raiders Road, Loch Stroan, Otter Pool, Red Kite Trail, Kennick Burn (and the ancient beech avenue), the Bennan, Slogarie and Laurieston Forests and Barstobrick. Dumfries & Galloway Council objected to their planning application so the application went to a public inquiry. The Public Inquiry, which lasted for six weeks, ended on 30 November and was a mammoth undertaking for everyone concerned. Our two legal experts were brilliant and worked incredibly hard in preparation for the Inquiry, during the Inquiry and since, preparing their final submissions to the Scottish Government. We agreed on a fee of £10,000 for both but, owing to circumstances out of their control, they did a lot more work and we have paid them £15,000 to date. One of the reasons for the extra workload was that Dumfries & Galloway Council, who objected to the application which triggered the Public Inquiry, withdrew seven days before the Inquiry started. This created more work for everyone else. Just to put how reasonable our experts' charges are it into context, the Council's legal bill just for preparing for the Inquiry was almost £70,000. GWP was originally tasked to submit their final submission by 9 January 2023 but the Scottish Government, since the Inquiry finished on 30 November, has published four major reports and has stated “Parties are invited to provide comments on how, if at all, this document affects their case to the inquiry and its relevance to this proposal”. The publications are (a) National Policy Framework 4, (b) Scottish Government Onshore Wind Policy Statement 2022, (c) Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan and (d) Scottish Biodiversity Strategy to 2045. Our two experts, especially our planning/power generation consultant, will now have to do a great deal more work. The amount of work was illustrated when SPEN’s legal team asked for a seven-week extension stating they wouldn’t be able to complete the work in time. This has been agreed and the completion date is now 13 April. The 'David vs Goliath' analogy has just increased but, with your help, we can complete the last part of the process which will give us a good chance of success. If you feel strongly about ensuring local voices are heard in order to preserve this unique corner of Galloway for future generations, please consider helping our cause with a donation. It will be very much appreciated by GWP, the local communities and tourists who enjoy visiting our beautiful area. To donate visit https:// gofund.me/c1a7653d or pay directly to Galloway Without Pylons, Bank of Scotland, 8022-60, 23761760 Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEenvironment page 13 Stroanpatrick Restoration Project M y parents bought the old schoolhouse at Stroanfreggan in the 1960s, when the school closed. They lived there during their retirement and four generations of our family have come regularly for holidays, gatherings and a quiet place to rest, walk or work. Land use and the local community have changed enormously over the past sixty years. Farms in the area that used to rear sheep and some cattle are now given over to forestry and more recently wind turbines, but Stroanpatrick, the farm surrounding the schoolhouse on all sides is still a sheep farm, with the Southern Upland Way running through it. The news that Stroanpatrick might be sold for commercial forestry reached us while the whole family was assembled for birthday celebrations last summer, so we put our heads together to think how we might save it. But why did we think it needed 'saving'? For what alternative land use? And how does one 'save' 585 hectares of rough sheep grazing? Could we find a buyer who shared our vision of how the land could be used? If forestry companies were interested then we probably needed to act fast, so we wrote a proposal and have contacted a number of potential buyers. Stroanpatrick was last sold in 2004 for under £900 per hectare. The current price for rough grazing land is three times higher than this, but forest land is about ten times higher. International investors are interested in buying land in Scotland as a safe asset with a good return on investment and are also interested in services (eg carbon offsetting) that the land may provide. What would be lost and who are the losers if land use changes? Land value depends on what it produces (agricultural products, timber), the services that it provides (eg storage and flow of water and carbon) and its amenity (wildlife, biodiversity, landscape value, open space for walking) and heritage (eg monuments, archaeology). Owners earn money from the produce (private goods) and from the increase in asset value, but the services, amenity and heritage are mainly public goods (ie we all benefit). Change in use (eg from rough grazing to forestry) can increase the land value enormously, but such private gain may be at the expense of public loss. Owners decide how their property is used and public loss is not generally compensated, although some damage to public goods is regulated (eg drainage should not cause flooding, water resources, carbon emissions from deep peat and historically or archaeologically sensitive areas should be protected). How does this all affect our aims for Stroanpatrick and why hasn’t it been snapped up by a forestry company over the last six months, while we try to find a buyer? The two neighbouring forestry businesses have been advised that less than 20% of the area could be planted with conifers, because of peat and sensitive archaeological areas. What about a wind farm? Two applications (Longburn) have been rejected, most recently in May 2019, on the grounds of adverse impacts on the landscape, historical heritage and visual amenity. The Reporter wrote that her rejection "highlights the value of conserving any remaining areas of less modified open land which have remained unaffected by commercial forestry.” There are three notable aspects to this judgement: 1) it is based on the value of public goods 2) it implicitly rejects a change of land use to commercial forestry and 3) there is no similar process for judging loss of public goods in relation to commercial forestry. Our vision for 'saving' Stroanpatrick is based on sustainable stewardship of the natural assets of the land for the benefit of the owners, the local community and the enhancement of biodiversity, carbon stocks, amenity and our common heritage. It is not unreasonable to use the term 'saving', because most of these would be at risk from commercial afforestation. You are welcome to read our proposal, which includes contact details, at http://u.pc.cd/KN4otalK Keith Brander Above - Looking north across Stroanpatrick Left - Stroanpatrick ridge Gordon McAdam Advanced Massage Practitioner Plumbing & Heating 22 Kirkland Street St John’s Town of Dalry 01644 430 393 07834 321 789 Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEenvironment page 14 Trees, Trees and More Trees... Through the Eyes of a Tree Surgeon I t's remarkable when you look around at the fine array of amazing tree species that we have in Galloway. From ancient oaks to towering firs and pines, the different layers of trees in our woodlands, the under storey and the canopy working together to shelter the land and its inhabitants. For centuries the woodlands have been worked and managed, the cutters felling the trees, horses extracting the timber and it being sent to the local sawmills, a valuable resource for the local area. Taking care of trees in our stunningly beautiful Galloway lands has always been an honour and a joy, not to say hard work. That rewarding feeling of a good day's slog in the woods or swinging around on a rope with a chainsaw is as much pleasure as it is work. I particularly like this time of year in the woods as it’s still cool, a good place to sweat, laugh and generally be. It's a chance to catch nature's moments first hand, something that seems to be in decline. When working in the countryside or town, it is always good practice to check for any protection orders on individual trees and to get permission for tree work in a conservation area. Dumfries & Galloway has 36 of the latter. We must always be environmentally considerate when working with trees: after all trees are an essential part of our eco system, a habitat for wildlife and our actions will have an impact on that. With that in mind, we always carry out environmental tree work operations sensitively. As well as good health and safety and best practice ways of working, we try to be as safe, light-footed and as efficient as possible. It never ceases to amaze me how many enormous, exotic, and giant trees there are dotted around Galloway, and quite often in gardens large and small. Sometimes close to buildings, these old-school beauties stand high up in the winds and often have sturdy buttress roots above ground to brace the trunk against the prevailing wind forces. If these trees are growing on stony ground they can sometimes be shallow rooted and susceptible to movement. This can potentially be spotted by observing around the base of the tree after strong winds for signs of ground disturbance. Remember that trees grow slowly and spend many years building up these defences, so are unlikely to blow over in the next storm. Observing that storm Arwen came in from a northerly direction and not from our usual westerly weather pattern, was a possible factor in the downing of so many trees that just weren't ready and prepared for it. Other things to keep an eye out for are fungus or fruiting bodies on the tree and signs of dieback and disease. It's true to say that trees have been under attack in recent years. phytopthora romoran, a fungus that kills larch trees as well as others and ash dieback disease have certainly helped to change the local landscape so far. Richard working on trees in the Garroch Walled Garden Always consider the impact of removing a tree as once it's gone, it's gone. In some cases this is the only option, but often there are other options available that are suited to certain trees. This could be a reduction or a pollard, be it a little or a lot. autumn and winter for various different reasons and that’s why being environmentally sensitive when carrying out tree work operations is even more necessary during nesting bird season or even best delayed until the back end. Tree work was always traditionally carried out during Richard Kirsch, Glenkens Tree Surgeons The Boat Registration Scheme will now operate from the Loch Ken Holiday Park, Parton, next to the public slipway. Please call 01644 470 282 or email office@ lochkenholidaypark.co.uk to arrange to register your boat. All craft with an engine of any type, including electric outboards, MUST be registered before being taken on to Loch Ken. Proof of valid insurance must be shown for all boats with engines over 6hp. Full details of annual/daily fees, and the rules and regulations can be found at www.lochken.org.uk The Loch Ken Trust would like to thank Martin Smee and the Loch Ken Marina for running the scheme for the last three years. All Change for Loch Ken Boat Registration T he new season is nearly upon us and, due to changes in circumstances, the Loch Ken Trust have put new arrangements in place for the Boat Registration Scheme on Loch Ken. The Loch Ken Trust Team GAZETTEenvironment Learning to Love Loch Ken Glenkens Gazette E ducating our future generations on how to care for and protect our environment has always been a top priority for the Loch Ken Trust (LKT). It is vitally important to us that children are equipped with the knowledge to enjoy our beautiful environment responsibly and enjoy all that nature and the outdoors has to offer. In February the first of this year’s environmental education sessions was held at the Galloway Activity Centre. Activities were designed by students from Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) in collaboration with Loch Ken Ranger, Leanne Pumpr. The students are currently working on a wildlife and conservation course which aims to provide them with real-life experience of working with communities and managing natural heritage. The sessions were given the thumbs up by the Primary 5 and 6 children from Crossmichael Primary, who were the first to take part. The fun and engaging activities included scavenger hunts, squirrel den building, mini ecosystems and food webs. The weather was perfect for the school kids page 15 to enjoy a day of outdoor learning and fun in stunning surroundings, with tasty packed lunches provided by the Thistle Inn, Crossmichael. Ely Blyth, Teaching Instructor at SRUC Barony Campus, said; “This has been a fantastic opportunity for our students to gain skills in education, resource development and working with communities, in a genuine, real-life setting. The students have produced some amazing sessions and have really enjoyed the chance to work with the Loch Ken Trust and Crossmichael School. We got very lucky with the weather and the students delivered sessions on responsible camping, wildlife around the loch and the ethics behind land use in fun and engaging ways. Overall, a brilliant day!” None of this would have been possible without funding received through Inspiring Scotland from the Scottish Government’s Rural and Island Communities Idea Into Action Fund. Thanks also to a generous donation from Drax Group, the owners of the Galloway Hydro Scheme, that will enable us to roll out delivery of these activities to local schools in the summer term. Drax Group Head of Community, Shona King, said: “We’re proud to help fund the Loch Ken Trust’s valuable work which promotes our shared values of protecting the natural environment and providing educational opportunities. It’s so important that children and young people can access areas of natural beauty in order to learn about biodiversity and ecosystems, hopefully sparking a future interest in conservation.” If you are interested in the work of the Loch Ken Trust why not join us? Full details on our website www.lochken.org.uk Lindsay Stewart, LKT Support Officer Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEenvironment page 16 sponsored by What is Rewilding? W ith the loss of habitat being a major factor in the decline of biodiversity, particularly in rural areas, the concept of rewilding is quite a progressive approach to conservation. A key element is that people can incorporate this on a personal level, which can make a difference to local ecosystems. Rewilding is a conservation approach that involves restoring and protecting natural habitats and wildlife to their original state, allowing ecosystems to function without human intervention. The goal of rewilding is to bring back biodiversity, improve ecosystem health, and support the survival of threatened or endangered species. Rewilding often involves reintroducing native species that have been lost or extirpated from a particular area, such as large predators like wolves or lynxes. This can help restore natural ecological processes and improve the overall health and resilience of the ecosystem. Rewilding can also involve the restoration of natural processes like fire or flooding, which can create habitats for a variety of species. Rewilding can be controversial, as it can sometimes conflict with human interests such as agriculture, forestry, and rural development. However, many conservationists and scientists see rewilding as a crucial tool for restoring degraded ecosystems and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Beavers play a vital role in ecosystem functioning by creating and maintaining wetlands, providing critical habitats for various plant and animal species. Wetlands also act as natural water filters, helping to improve water quality and reduce the impact of flooding. European beaver gnawing leaves in the water © Galloway Wildlife Conservation Trust By reintroducing beavers to areas where they have been lost, we can help restore ecosystem functioning and improve biodiversity. Additionally, beavers can provide substantial economic benefits through ecotourism, recreation and valuable ecosystem services such as flood control. restore degraded ecosystems, improve biodiversity, and provide essential ecosystem services. Food for thought for the Glenkens perhaps? John Denerley Overall, the European beaver is an important species for rewilding efforts and can help to John runs the Galloway Wildlife Conservation Trust and can be contacted at conservation@ gallowaywildlife.org.uk The Fantastic Forest Festival Shone a Light on Woodlands in the Glenkens T he first ever Fantastic Forest Festival took place in February, with the woodlands of the Glenkens taking centre stage in many of the 12 festival events. This included artist-led walks, presentations and the first Spruce Plucking World Championships! Hundreds of attendees took part across the whole suite of events, all with the aim of better engaging with, understanding and appreciating our woodlands. Within ongoing and vital discussion about planting proposals, national targets and consultations, the festival provided an opportunity for people to celebrate our trees, forestry and woodlands in all their forms. Whether it was searching for rainforests or discussing our future timber needs, the festival tried to have something that appealed to all. Outputs from the festival include the artist residency which was underway, content for an upcoming edition of the Geographer magazine, an exhibition of the school pupils’ tree drawings and also discussion with the Scottish Parliament about presenting the findings to a relevant committee. The whole festival came about only thanks to the simply brilliant enthusiasm of partners, particularly Leeming + Paterson, the Watson Bird Project, South West Scotland Environmental Information Centre and the Crichton Carbon Centre. I am grateful to them all, and also to everyone that attended an event. McNabb Laurie Winning photograph of the Fantastic Forest Festival photo competition, taken by Diane Schofield Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEenvironment page 17 sponsored by If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk FREE Brabantia ironing board. Width at widest point is 48cm, total length is 1m 63cm. Contact: sheilamackay56@ yahoo.co.uk Jerome Russell hair dye, Pro Colour 3.0 Darkest Brown, 12 brand new packs; won them at Christmas, free to a good home. Contact: 07932 864 422 Horse manure, rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 WANTED Acoustic guitar, (doesn't have to be free). Contact: 07727 127 997 Double bed size divan base with drawers. Contact: 01644 460 673 Researching Community Heat Networks L ocal company Natural Power Consultants Ltd, who are based at Forrest Estate, outside Dalry, were recently commissioned to look into the feasibility of a community heat network for the Crichton Estate. The focus was to provide heat via low carbon sources and connect to the nearby local NHS campus, Dumfries & Galloway College, local housing and various private mixed-use enterprises surrounding the estate. A number of low carbon sources of heat accessible to the estate were asessed, including capturing heat from the Dumfries Basin Aquifer, a local, shallow source of groundwater that has high potential to provide quality heating to the proposed network. Is a community heat network something which could be looked into for our Glenkens communities? In the Doon Valley, research is being done into demonstrating whether it would be feasible to convert excess wind energy into useable stored heat in old coal mine shafts. Currently a huge amount of wind energy is wasted as the National Grid can't utilise it but it still gets paid for through curtailment payments. This lost energy equates to GW-hours of heat that could potentially be stored and distributed directly to local heat networks. With the rising cost of living, especially for heating our homes, perhaps small-scale community heat networks for our villages are a potential worth investigating for an affordable future. Sarah Ade Chest freezer. Contact: Tony on 07507 704 821 Old lawn mowers/strimmers/other small machinery. Non-runners/broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 FOR SALE Dark Wood Coffee Table with two Drawers - £50. 120cms x 60cms. Height 45cms. Contact: 07766 745 198 Oak Finished wooden fireplace surround, in good condition - £50 ono. Contact: 07521 902 567 Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEenvironment page 18 Turning Ideas into Action Delivering the Loch Ken Plan is all about turning the Loch Ken Trust’s ideas into practical action on the ground (or water!). Our Baseline Ecosystem Assessment project involves really getting to know, in detail, what state our natural environment is in right now. Once we know where we stand, we can start to develop projects to restore and enhance our ecosystem. We see ourselves as guardians of Loch Ken, so we want to be able to say that the loch’s ecosystem is actually improving, thanks to our hard work. The Loch Ken Ranger Service, which Staff and students on the Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) Wildlife & Conservation Management course will be working with the Loch Ken Ranger Service to develop and design engaging outdoor activitity sessions. These sessions will help us engage and enthuse our community to gather scientific data on the state of our ecosystem. Cath Seeds, Senior Lecturer at SRUC’s Barony Campus, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be involved with this project. Over the last few years we have built a great partnership with the Loch Ken Trust. It is a brilliant project for our students to be involved in.” is at the heart of our community engagement, relies on the support of funders and partners to bring our projects to life. Below you can see how we are working co-operatively with partners from the public, private and voluntary sectors to progress our Baseline Ecosystem Assessment. Drax plc are the current owners of the Galloway Hydro Scheme which runs the length of the Ken-Dee river valley, with Loch Ken at its heart. Since our Scottish Government funding only covers the design and development of the activity sessions, Drax stepped in to fund the delivery. Thanks to the Drax funding, we will deliver a session to each of our local schools this summer. Drax Group Head of Community, Shona King, said: “We’re proud to help fund the Loch Ken Trust’s valuable work which promotes our shared values of protecting the natural environment and providing educational opportunities.” None of this exciting work could happen without the support of our funders. The work highlighted here is supported through Inspiring Scotland by the Scottish Government Rural and Island Communities Ideas into Action Fund Galloway Fisheries Trust is a well established, local environmental charity carrying out convservation, education, research and fisheries management work across the region. They will be holding ‘citizen science’ sessions to gather data on the state of the fish stocks in Loch Ken. How and where we spend our money really matters. Part of our funding is to purchase waterproofs, to ensure that visiting school groups always have suitable clothing for outdoor activities. We are buying them from Tarff Agricultural Merchants; a local business, which is also a cooperative. Tarff was actually the first agricultural co-op in Scotland, when it was formed in 1903. Buying from small local firms, helps keep money in the local economy. Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEenvironment page 19 The Optimistic Environmentalist Why We and the Planet Need Whales in their bodies. Chemicals are transferred from mothers' bodies to their foetuses through the womb and in the milk when breastfeeding. This is a contribution to increased mortality; female killer whales did live to their 80s, males to their 60s, but now are dying in their 20s This is their prime breeding age, thus affecting future numbers of healthy births. W hales behave in ways that humans understand and value. Whales are impressive mammals, having superb physical agility, speed and intelligence, with a brain twice that of ours. They have many traits that are relatable to by humans such as being sociable and live in families (pods), looking after their offspring and help with each others' young, practising cooperative feeding, they communicate in their own language - via grunts and a variety of songs that are particular to given pods that can be heard across oceans - helping them keep in touch with each other and find pod members eg their young. Whales swim for thousands of miles, visiting different parts of the world throughout the year. They may meet up with other pods in certain areas, where they use songs, body language, splashing, jumping and individualised fin markings to track each other down. Whales are good for the sea Through their contribution to nutrient circulation, whales improve the sea, bringing nutrients from deep in the ocean to the top when alive and adding to the nutrients on the seabed when they die. Studies have shown that numbers of whales, krill and plankton rely on each other; since the moratorium on commercial whaling, populations of all three have increased simultaneously - when scientists fertilised plankton, krill and whale numbers also increased. Plastic pollution - discarded from land, by ships, etc - cuts into, tangles around and can grow into parts of the whale. Smaller bits of plastic, including plastic that has been ground up by the sea, builds up in the whales' bodies, clogging their veins, arteries, and vital organs. What can we do? Reduce our use of oil and diesel. Buy less plastic including less packaging, cosmetics and cuddly toys with plastic beads in them. Difficulties faced by whales Scientists have found that whales are not disturbed by natural noises like underwater earthquakes, ignoring and working around them. However, they find unnatural noises frightening such as those made by ships, air guns used to look for gas and oil and human building, eg laying cables, windfarms. These sounds make communicating and navigating difficult or impossible for whales. Increasingly, crowded seas make it hard for whales to navigate safely. They are regularly hit by ships, which have grown in size and number. Ships often don't see the whale or are too big to manoeuvre out of the way quickly. Like land animals with human vehicles, whales don't realise they have to move and are confused by the artificial noise. They also don't understand our 'sea lane' layouts! There has been a loss of habitat due to massive shipping increases, gas and oil drilling, wind and wave structure, harbours, etc. There has been a loss of food for example, plankton and krill numbers are falling significantly due to changes in the sea (see below). The acidity of the sea is rising through chemical and oil leaks, explosions, accidental spills from ships and manufacturing, or planned releases into the water courses. This kills food for the whales and builds up Buy local products so that items are not moved around the world as much. Always recycle - don't drop litter and clear beaches up. Join organisations that help to clean up or reduce negative impacts in the sea, help the affected animals and work with governments and agencies to improve their work eg RSPB, WWF, World Animal Protection, Greenpeace, Sea Shepherd, Friends of the Earth. Write to companies to ask them to use shipping which use modern technology that reduces noise, petrol and diesel and discard less waste. Write to MSPs/MPs to ask them to improve legislation regarding companies, shipping, etc. responsibilities and standards. Denise MacDonald-Kiernan Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEenvironment page 20 THE GALLOWAY GLENS SCHEME – OUR APPROACH £4 MILLION SPEND RECORDED THROUGH THE SCHEME TO DATE 90 ATTENDEES 9 NEW OR REFURBISHED BUILDINGS SO FAR ON ‘GO WILD’ OUTDOOR EDUCATION CAMPS 23 MILES OF IMPROVED FOOTPATH, INCLUDING 4 NEW BRIDGES 4 YEARS DALRY POSITIONS WITH PARTNERS SO FAR As we approach the end of the Scheme in September 2023, we look at headline achievements so far and try to summarise the approach taken. We are an initiative of the Dumfries & Galloway Council’s Environment Team. Many thanks as always to all partners and funders, without whom none of this would be possible… CARSPHAIRN 11 INTERN The Galloway Glens Scheme is five years of co-ordinated and focussed activity in the Ken/Dee valley, seeking to ‘connect people to their heritage’ while boosting the local economy and supporting sustainable communities. CLATTERINGSHAWS OF THE NATIONALLY ACCLAIMED ‘CAN YOU DIG IT’ COMMUNITY ARCHAEOLOGY PROJECT LAUNCHED THE SOUTH OF SCOTLAND TREE PLANTING GRANT SCEME IN D&G SUPPORTED THE LOCH KEN TRUST NOW RUNNING ONE OF THE FIRST COMMUNITY-LED RANGER SERVICES IN SCOTLAND LOCH KEN >30,000 MILES 27 AWARDS MADE TRAVELLED BY TAGGED GREENLAND WHITE-FRONTED GEESE THROUGH THE SMALL GRANTS SCHEME OUR APPROACH Identify challenges facing communities and work in partnership to design solutions Establish a relationship with partners and then trust them to deliver A ‘place-based’ approach – breaking barriers between topics and sectors, with a focus on the Ken/Dee Valley Draw funding from the national stage to be spent in D&G Use our time-limited nature to our advantage, encouraging momentum and urgency CASTLE DOUGLAS ‘NATURE POSITIVE’ >2,500 PROJECTS SUPPORTED INCLUDING THREAVE LANDSCAPE RESTORATION PROJECT, PEATLAND CONNECTIONS AND THE BLACK WATER OF DEE HABITAT RESTORATION KIRKCUDBRIGHT 35 HEADLINE PROJECTS SUPPORTED UP AND DOWN THE VALLEY ENTRIES IN THE PLACE NAMES DATABASE >75% OF SPEND IS WITH D&G BUSINESSES PRIMARY FUNDER: GAZETTEschools Glenkens Gazette page 21 Dalry School Basketball Team Continues Its Winning Streak I n February Dalry Secondary Basketball team played away at Dumfries Academy. The team won 41-7 after two quarters. Dumfries picked up some injuries so the Dalry team agreed to cut the competitive fixture short and continue with a friendly game, with Dumfries fielding some senior players in their squad. In a much tighter game, Dumfries opened up an early 10-0 lead, after which Dalry switched to a zone defence, shutting Dumfries out for the rest of the game and scoring 12 points in a row. Dalry won the fixture 1210 in what was another excellent performance from the boys. Keep your eyes peeled for the results of the Regional Finals held at Dalbeattie - will Dalry continue their winning streak? Liam Fleming, Coach The Dalry team in their brand new kits, sponsored by Dalry-based company Natural Power Dalry Primary Update Carsphairn Primary C hildren in Dalry Primary have been busy this term. We had a 'Health in Winter session' at the Galloway Activity Centre, which included climbing and archery. On the day the children also had opportunity to be on the loch in canoes and to cook lunch, learning about air miles and food sustainability. Thank you to the Galloway Glens Scheme for supporting this. We had a whole school trip to the Science Centre in Glasgow along with Kells Primary, also kindly funded by the Galloway Glens Scheme. In school we have been having some STEM sessions. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. The children were set challenges and have to design, build and present their findings to the rest of the children. Finally, our Primary 7 children have been learning cycling skills through a Bikeability course. This has been running since the February break and it's wonderful to see how their skills and confidence have increased. Paul Scrimshaw T o satisfy the demand for education at Carsphairn school, Carsphairn CC believe the school should be re-opened and the mothballing halted. Travel times for some children in the Carsphairn catchment area to the proposed alternative at Dalry school involve unacceptably long travel times, as long as one hour depending on how far north of the village the child lives. Furthermore, children are not supervised on the school bus, a further unacceptable situation for young children travelling on their own on the bus to Dalry school. Some of the points made in the consultation for Carsphairn school closure were inaccurate, and ignored both some of the clauses in the Education Act 2010 and the statutory guidance for the closure of rural schools. The Education and Learning committee meet on 28 March to consider the results of the consultation and we hope they will come to the right decision to re-open the school to support the sustainability of the community, and not mothball it for a further two years as recommended by the Education and Learning Directorate. The ongoing plan for affordable housing will bring young families to the area whose children require, and have a right to, schooling in their local community. Carsphairn Community Council GAZETTEarts Hannah McAndrew Wins Heritage Craft Award Glenkens Gazette page 22 C orsock-based slipware potter, Hannah McAndrew, has won the prestigious UK Maker of the Year Award at the UK Heritage Crafts Awards. The award is sponsored by the Marsh Charitable Trust and winners were announced at a prestigious winners’ reception at the House of Lords. The result of the award and a £1,000 cash prize was revealed at the ceremony, opened by Heritage Crafts’ co-chair Jay Blades MBE. After serving an apprenticeship with Dumfriesshire slipware potter, Jason Shackleton, Hannah has been running her own workshop since 2003. She draws influence from the ancient British folk heritage of country pottery, whose makers demonstrated extraordinary, intuitive skill, a high benchmark to which she aspires. Her ‘This is England’ charger was accepted into the permanent collection of Centre of Ceramic Art at York Art Gallery, in 2021. This piece, made as a response to the racist abuse during the Euro 2020 football tournament, raised £9,000 for FareShare UK and was featured on the national news. At this year's Heritage Craft awards Hannah saw off competition from fellow finalists hat maker Rachel Frost and lettercutter Fergus Wessel. Hannah McAndrew and husband Douglas Fitch with Jay Blade (centre), CoChair of Heritage Crafts (and presenter of TV programme 'The Repair Shop' Let the Battle Commence... W e're looking forward to an evening brimming with exciting new talent at the CatStrand Young Creatives' Battle of the Bands. This will be an opportunity for emerging young local musicians under the age of 25 to perform at the CatStrand, with the winning acts going on to perform at Knockengorroch Festival in May. Bands battling will be... Come along and support local young musicians! Book your tickets now at www.csyoungcreatives.com/ whats-on - Deodand - High Priestess - Jodie Rae - Benjamin - Haynes - Ella Campbell - Rhelm - Artful Migration Artists-in-Residence G lenkens-based artists Ted Leeming and Morag Paterson have been given a residency to study the nightjar, one of Scotland's most unusual birds. The project will enable the artists to spend time on site at Lochar Mosses and explore this elusive species, which appears to be thriving in the region. The residency, funded by Moving Souls Dance and Creative Scotland, is the third in a programme of three residencies which have been developed by Upland and Moving Souls Dance since 2017. Each residency has offered artists a unique insight into the migratory birds of Dumfries & Galloway through partnership working with local nature reserves and the opportunity to create new, high-quality artworks in response for public display. Little is known of the nightjar's migratory journey, which provides an opportunity for new research with the project partners, Forestry and Land Scotland and RSPB Scotland. The nightjar has secretive behaviour and an almost supernatural reputation, being only visible at night. Morag and Ted said: “Nightjars are a fascinating species and the source of many myths - their Latin name translates as 'milker of goats'. In folklore, people believed that nightjars fed on the milk of nanny goats, probably due to their nocturnal proximity to livestock. The birds make an annual migration from Africa to Scotland and back, and we’re looking forward to delving more into this route and some of the stopover points." Ravens by Leeming + Paterson The residency will culminate in the creation of new work to be exhibited in October 2023. For more information on project please visit www. weareupland.com/projects Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEarts page 23 Success at the Stewartry Drama Festival A fter a brilliant three-night Stewartry Drama Festival, CatStrand Players are polishing up eight trophies and celebrating after finishing 1st and 3rd in the Youth Festival and 2nd in the Open Festival. After this roaring success, the CatStrand Players went on to represent the Stewartry District at the Western Final in Dunoon with their winning plays where Rabbit placed second in the Youth category and won the trophy for ‘Best Stage Presentation’ in the Western Division youth final. A massive congratulations to all our young actors who did so well! We look forward to returning to Dunoon on 17 March, and hope to be able to report more good news then. Catherine Campbell Above - Youth Players directors Brian Edgar, Catherine Campbell and James Wallace with this year's Drama Festival trophies. Left - more wins at the Western Final in Dunoon. Carsphairn Family Film Screening I n February there was a successful family film screening by Carsphairn 'Young Deciders' in the village hall. Carsphairn ‘Young Deciders’ is a group of volunteers who formed to help coordinate the planning of activities and events for school-aged children and young people in the parish, funded by Foundation Scotland. Following some casual meetings, the young people of Carsphairn chose to run a series of movie afternoons as a preferred avenue to spend the funds provided. In April 2022 a screening of Encanto was put on at the Lagwyne Hall, which was a huge success. Following on from this the group arranged another movie matinee in February 2023. There was a great turnout of all ages, engaging the people of Carsphairn village and the wider community through this inclusive, intergenerational event. The movie chosen was Disney's Strange World and was screened by Driftwood Cinema, who hire and operate cinematic equipment in the area. With a plentiful supply of free popcorn and juice provided for the kids plus tea/coffee and biscuits for the grown-ups, the afternoon was fun for all the family. Thanks go to Driftwood Cinema, the dedicated volunteers of the Carsphairn Community Council and local children’s group Bairn Banter, who all helped organise and oversee the afternoon's activities. Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEarts page 24 Galloway Violin Studio String Workshop T he Galloway Violin Studio hosted its first workshop in three years on Friday 17 and Saturday 18 February. The event was held in Parton and organised by local violin/ viola teacher and director of the Galloway Violin Studio, Cate Howard. Guest teachers were Margaret Parkin, a Suzuki violin/viola teacher from Oxford and Ellen Martin, a Suzuki cello teacher from Ayr. Together with Cate, they delivered a wonderful two days of music-making to over 20 young string players from Dumfries and Galloway, Ayr, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Participants received individual masterclasses and on Saturday morning, they took part in a group class and Chamber Orchestra in Parton Village Hall. The group class played Suzuki violin repertoire and the Chamber Orchestra played an extract from The Snowman by Howard Blake and the Canzonetta from Mendelssohn’s String Quartet Op 12. This music was challenging, but also inspiring for the young musicians. The standard of playing achieved in such a short period of time was amazing and a credit to both students and teachers. The atmosphere in the village hall was friendly and supportive and many commented on the warm sense of community. Many thanks to Parton Village Hall Committee and to Barfil Charitable Trust and Co-op for their generous donations without which the event would Above - a group class held in Parton Village Hall Left - one-to-one teaching in a masterclass with Margare not have been possible. If you are interested in finding out more about violin lessons at the Galloway Violin Studio, please contact Cate Howard at chowardsasc@gmail.com Gilian Hodson Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEarts page 25 GAZETTEarts From the Bookroom Glenkens Gazette In 'From the Bookroom' Glenkensbased author, Robin Yassin-Kassab, takes readers through some of his favourite books. Robin is author of the novel The Road From Damascus and co-author of Burning Country: Syrians in Revolution and War. In the last issue I wrote about Ulysses – a particularly difficult book which requires time and an attitude shift to make easy. So this time I’ll talk about writing which, though of the highest literary quality, makes easy reading almost from first glance. That is: the short stories of George Saunders – in four collections so far. The stories divide roughly into two types. The first could be called suburban sci-fi, or surreal comic horror, almost in the genre (to switch media) of Black Mirror or Squid Game. Their protagonists are trapped inside simulations. They might have had their memories wiped so as to better perform their corporate task. They might work in a strip bar or some other controlled ‘entertainment’ MATTHEW PAJO Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine - pain management - women's health - men's health - fatigue - sleep - stress - anxiety - needle-free laser acupuncture- The Old School, Crossmichael info@matthewpajo.co.uk 07786 079 845 page 26 environment. The title story of the collection, Civilwarland in Bad Decline, for instance, is set in a historical theme park (Civilwarland) in which desperate employees are plagued by unruly ghosts. Ghoul is set in a sprawling network of underground theme parks, an enclosed world in which ‘monitors’ blow whistles to summon the costumewearing, role-playing staff to kick to death other staff who have broken the rules. The most serious infringement is to say aloud that no customers have ever visited the attraction, and never will. Everybody knows this truth, everybody must nevertheless continue in role. It’s a metaphorical sketch of the human condition. It’s also, indirectly, very political, a dark satire of increasingly authoritarian times. (Interestingly, the only story of his I don’t much like – Love Letter – is the only one which is obviously, straightforwardly, literally political – although I do agree with its politics.) So those are the first type. The second type are less fantastical, though still weird. Instead of sci-fi, they use a brutal realism of emotional dysfunction. Mother’s Day, for instance, skewers the self-deception, cruel parenting, and desperation of two unloved egos. Two women who were shared, and neglected, by one man, now deceased. The writing is devastatingly honest in its character analysis but somehow also gentle and compassionate. The reader empathises with these egos – and sometimes the egos even manage self-transcendence. Mother’s Day ends in one woman’s death, when she is able to slough off her troublesome self, and move on to new things. This conclusion feels somewhat Buddhist (as does the title of Saunders’ Booker Prize-winning novel Lincoln in the Bardo, which I haven’t yet read) and that’s probably because Saunders is himself a practising Buddhist. In interviews he talks of his meditative approach to writing, arriving at the desk without any preconceptions or purposive agenda, but listening to each line, allowing the story to develop itself. The stories which develop themselves through the medium of George Saunders are very funny, and at the same time deadly serious. They are inventive and profound, but also compulsive. Each line pulls you irresistibly to the next, to new surprises, tragedies or jokes. The words slip into you and accumulate as irresistibly as the progress of spring, the greening of the hills, and the coming-to-leaf of our Galloway trees. Robin Yassin-Kassab Amber Dunlop-Pajo Health Psychologist - women's health - stress - depression - anxietyThe Old School, Crossmichael info@gallowaycounselling.co.uk 07389 713 106 Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEhistory page 27 Carsphairn Heritage Centre - 30 for 30 H elp us celebrate 30 years of the Carsphairn Heritage Centre. The Carsphairn Heritage Initiative is putting together a new "30 for 30" exhibition to celebrate the end of Carsphairn Heritage Centre's 30th year, and we need your help to nominate items for the exhibition. We're looking for items that mean something to members of the community, no matter how humble or grand the item. It might be a photograph of a place, a letter, a postcard, or artefact which interests you, or just a random item which makes you smile. There are plenty to choose from, 3258 to be precise! If you'd like to help, it's simple: 1) Use the QR code or go to carsphairn.org/ CarsphairnArchive 2) Browse the Online Inventory, use the search function or have a look through the Collections and Exhibitions for ideas. 3) Let us know which item you've chosen; every item has an unique code (identifier) or copy the link to its page. 4) Tell us why you've chosen it; Pen and ink drawing of Carsphairn Heritage Centre by local artist, Robin Ade a sentence or two will do but feel free to write more if you wish. 5) Email your nomination to us with your name at: carsphairnhi.archive@gmail. com We hope you will enjoy browsing the archive and selecting something amazing. The items will be assembled into an exhibition for the Heritage Centre's Easter Open Weekend on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 April and will be available online in perpetuity from April. Gail Challis The Amazing Story of Galloway's Vanishing Horse T he Galloway garron or Nag was a famous breed of Galloway horse, now extinct but with a unique international legacy. This remarkable breed, recorded by Defoe and Shakespeare, was held in the highest regard across the country and beyond but it appears to have vanished without trace. Dr Miriam Bibby is an archaeologist, historian and journalist with a specialist interest in the history and archaeology of the horse and its relationship with humans. She has been researching Galloway’s unique breed of horse, what it was like, what happened to it, and its impact on the equine world. She will share her findings with The Glenkens Story in her talk, 'The Galloway Nag: Galloway's Gift to the World' at the CatStrand at 2pm on Sunday 23 July. Tickets, at £10 (U26 £4), are available from www. gcat.scot or call the CatStrand on 01644 420 374. Sadly no one thought to paint the Galloway Nag and it was extinct by the time of photography arrived. The only readily available image is from a book on agriculture by William Youatt which matches some of the contemporary descriptions. GAZETTEhistory Glenkens Gazette page 28 The Nature of the Games We Play (part 2) C ontinued seasonal recollections of boyhood outdoor activities... Winter, of course, was punctuated and in some ways dominated by the Christmas and New Year festivals, though I believe that celebration of the former has grown, whilst the latter has diminished, in south west Scotland since I was a boy. Like today, as Christmas approached, house decorations began to appear, especially multicoloured paper bells, chains and more elaborate concertina items as wall hangings, often with big illuminated rose pink stars between windows and curtains or cream-coloured blinds (Venetian blinds came later). former could be just a few yards long in back gardens, on pavements (!) and untreated roads, whilst serious sledging was undertaken on the grassy slopes of playgrounds, fields and banks. There was often a mild competitive edge to sliding, with the more fleet-footed vying to out-do each other for style and distance, although ice, like water, can be a great leveller and poise and elegance were oft found where least expected. Some, like myself, led with the left foot, others with the right, but most had great fun, regardless of their method, shape or size. latter often disappeared as abruptly and mysteriously as they had come. No great skill was acquired in this, but we soon got to know hares, stoats and, my personal favourite, the long, linear single track of the fox or Tod Lowry as they were sometimes called by the 'aul anes'. Of course, snow is a rarity in these parts now, and seldom lasts for long even when it does lie. From memory, spring rarely came early and March was often very cold and windy. However, longer days encouraged early evening activity outdoors to the increasingly confident songs of skittery felties (mistle thrush), mavis (song thrush) and blackies (blackbirds). Willow and hazel catkins were cut for mothers’ spring vases, while April weekends allowed more time for gathering posies of primroses from the wooded banks and violets from the fields. How perfectly beautiful they looked in a shallow dish on the kitchen table or window ledge; delicate blue violets surrounded by pale yellow primroses - and how welcomed they were, too. I always felt for these magnificent creatures, which had come so far upstream only to be caught, killed and eaten... Nature provided holly and ivy, which some had in addition to a tree (mostly synthetic), but life was largely lived indoors in wet and stormy weather, as it is today. However, frost and, joy-of-joys, snow, encouraged an outdoor exodus of the young. Frost alone was more common and the longer it prevailed the more celebrated it became, with ever lengthening forays into the countryside in search of pristine ice for breaking and other play. Icicles were a delight and so refreshing, even to those who normally turned up their noses at drinking water without Creamola Foam, Sunfresh, Tree Top, Ribena or other squash additives to the tumbler. In extreme winters with prolonged frosts the burns and lochs froze over and, of course, encouraged more dangerous pursuits, and many a good day was curtailed by going through the ice and over the wellies. The first snow saw snowmen appearing everywhere; snow women were always scarcer and more transient. Snowball fights were everywhere, while the gloaming saw wee groups gathering to make mischief by snowballing windows to encourage rage and, with luck, a chase. I recall a certain street etiquette sparing older folk, recently-bereaved or otherwise stricken households from this unkindness. The irascible and taciturn were most often targeted as reliable sport, though sometimes several houses in the same street were struck at once, just for the extra kick. Perhaps surprisingly, I don’t ever remember a window being broken and no lasting harm was done, however annoying it must have been for grow-ups. However, the communal climaxes of prolonged snow and ice in the mining schemes were slides and sledging. The Home-made sledges, some with runners fashioned at the pithead, were quite common, as were bread boards procured from shops’ back yards. These came in two sizes, the longer ones carrying several young sledgers, although three generations were often involved in the fun, breath turning to mist in the cold. Together with dogs running loose and barking for joy, the whole comprised a winter scene like some Bruegel painting. Remember chilblains? The sun had clos’d the winter-day, The Curlers quat their roaring play, And hunger’d Maukin taen her way [hare] To kail-yards green, While faithless snaws ilk step betray Whare she has been. Burns: The Vision Many older boys and indeed men were keen fishers of trout and could increasingly be seen along the burns as the season progressed. In my youth, both salmon and sea trout also had spring runs, entering the Nith from the Solway and heading up into headwaters in east Ayrshire. Afton Water, a tributary at New Cumnock, was favoured by both fish and some became highly skilled in various (illegal) methods of catching these, including at times with the rod. I always felt for these magnificent creatures, which had come so far upstream only to be caught, killed and eaten, but tradition dies hard and some families had hard times. It was about this time that stanks and ponds were visited to collect frog spawn and even a few newts, which were all kept and fed in old sinks and such like in back gardens. One soon learned to give them wee bits of mince (protein) for the taddies to become frogs, otherwise they simply became monstrous taddies with no hint of frog about them. Beyond my village the scene was more Farquharson RSA, with sheep turning round to gauge how frightened to be at one’s approach. It was always a joy to discover and follow animal and bird tracks in the snow, though of course the Sprouting hawthorn buds, so-called bread and cheese, were eaten in some parts of the country, but never in mine, and while once or twice I came upon the hidden tapping of birch sap for wine-making by continentals, this was generally unusual. In more recent years on an Estonian island, I was given a glass to try but was rather disappointed despite giving it every chance to impress. Continued over the page... Glenkens Gazette Continued from previous page... Wild spring nourishment included pignuts – we called them grun (ground) nuts. Spring flowers on old pasture often included these conspicuous creamcoloured umbellifers, indicating the presence of the nutty prize below. These were usually consumed without proper washing beyond a quick dicht on the fresh green sward, but they didn’t seem to do us any harm, though I now wonder how much of their earthy flavour was imparted by soil. Finally, we come to the excitement of the bird nesting season, a great highlight of the boyhood calendar, as indeed it still is for me. Improvements in agriculture, especially draining and silage, were fast reducing the numbers of breeding peasies (lapwings) around my village, but the early spring collecting of eggs for the plate was still practised extensively in the mining communities. Peasie eggs are simply delicious, scrambled or in omelettes, and though now understandably protected by law, I have fond memories of eating them. Gull eggs were sometimes collected for baking, but never in our house, though I do remember an occasional whaup (curlew) egg or two reaching the kitchen table. In more recent times egg collecting rightly became an abhorrent and socially page 29 unacceptable practice, and indeed as an employee of the RSPB part of my job in early years was to assist the police in detecting and prosecuting rare-bird eggthieves. While I never knew any serious collectors, like many schoolboys I kept a modest egg collection and each spring over several years had great fun adding to this. Only one egg from a clutch was taken (serious collectors usually took entire clutches and indeed often multiple clutches of the same species). I soon grew out of the habit and indeed now wonder that I could have taken any. However, like very many ornithologists of my own and earlier generations, there is no doubt that my deep interest in and love of birds was stimulated at an early age by bird nesting in spring, and to this day I still marvel at the unique beauty of birds’ eggs, but always in their rightful place, the nest. Guilt, hypocrisy, regret and embarrassment are never easy sentiments to deal with, however trivial their origin may seem to some. Whilst not excusing myself Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP Solicitors and Estate Agents Dumfries & Galloway 01556 503744 www.ggblaw.co.uk All legal advice Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie Kirkcudbright and Dumfries nor wishing to be excused for boyhood taking of eggs, I do appreciate my current seasonal connections with the natural world – the real world – and recognise the importance of bird nesting in spring in nurturing this from an early age. I don’t feel alone in this, but I do realise how privileged some of us are in having these lifelong connections with nature. "Nature’s gifts to all are free" - Burns Chris Rollie, Dalry Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEinformation Glass Recycling Points • Balmaclellan Stores, Balmaclellan • Memorial Hall, St Michael's Road, Crossmichael • Kirkland Street, St John's Town of Dalry • New Galloway, Carson's Knowe Car Park • St David Street, Kirkpatrick Durham USEFUL NUMBERS: ● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000 ● Police, non-emergency: 101 ● Doctor: 01644 420 234 ● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24 ● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000 ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) page 30 Job Vacancies Natural Power has three home-based positions open at the moment – Senior Ornithologist (closing date 7 Apr), Construction Project Manager (closing date 7 Apr) and Senior Ecological Modeller (closing date 6 Apr). For information on these jobs visit www.naturalpower.com/uk/ careers Glenkens Community & Arts Trust has a vacancy for a Community Activities Officer - see back page Inclusivity Training Sessions ThursͲFri 20Ͳ21st April (venue tbc) Are you a practitioner/ group / workshop leader or small venue and want to find out about making your service and sessions more accessible to people to people with a range of additional needs This may be the training for you and Its FREE.  Thursday we will cover: Friday we will cover supporting people:  Hearing and visual impairments (Aids/ Devices and Apps);  with Mental Health issues;  Creating accessible documents/ formats; People who identify as LGBTQ; Autism Spectrum Disorders; Easy read  An opportunity to discuss scenarios, strategies and best practice.  Talk from a local venue on getting Accessibilty right.   The days will be a mix of information sessions and workshops, and are being led by experts in the field– from Visibility Scotland, The Hard of Hearing group, to Dumfries and Galloway’s Chief Educational Psychologist and their Autism lead, LGBTQ and practical advice from The Cample_Line venue and their journey.  If you would like to come along please express your interest by email to catherine@dgvoice.co.uk or calling/ texting 07897 876181.  SMALL: We are limited to 40 places. Thank you. 6cm x 6cm, £50 DG Voice is a company limited by guarantee and a registered charity.  Registered Company Number (Scotland): SC327973. Charity number: SC030187 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £108 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £200 FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £332 Please get in touch further details including small business/ charity rates and series discounts. Email glenkensgazette@ hotmail.co.uk or call/ WhatsApp 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 334 0905 24 THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS General Medical & Dispensing Services FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY The Surgery High Street New Galloway Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm Sat 2-2.30 pm Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm  01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS  FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEinformation page 31 KEY GLENKENS CONTACTS LOCAL DOCTORS’ SURGERY Glenkens Medical Practice - 01644 420 234 COMMUNITY CONTACTS • Balmaclellan: Martin Warnock 07939 261 391 • Carsphairn: Liz Holmes - 07718 358 160 • Corsock: Julie Garton - 07769 647 702 • Kirkpatrick Durham: Heather 07551 639 629 • Crossmichael: Richard Middleton - 01556 670 691 • Dalry: Graham West - 01644 430 503 • New Galloway: 07741 656 601 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 FOOD DELIVERIES • Galloway Foodbank - 07730 788 335 • Glenkens Food Hub - www. openfoodnetwork.org.uk/ glenkens-food-hub/shop • Ballards Butchers - 01556 502502 (they also deliver groceries) • Grierson’s Butchers: 01556 502 637 • Henderson’s Butchers: 01556 502 654 • Mitchell’s Greengrocers: 01556 502 077 • Fleet Fish: call 07966 103 912 to find out about Glenkens delivery days • Roan’s Dairy - 01556 620 374 LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Glenkens Community Shop: Contact Liz Lewis on 07530 804 217 or drop by the shop on Main Street, Dalry Glenkens Scout Group: Contact Heather McIntosh on 01644 420 375 Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact newgallowaytownhall@gmail.com Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail. com or 01644 430 521 Dalry Town Hall: Contact Lesley Blissett at lesleyblissett52@gmail.com Glenkens Community Centre: Contact Sarah McAdam on minimac01644@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact ngce5000@gmail.com or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins at julia.higgins55@outlook.com CatStrand: Contact Fiona Limbrey at fiona@ catstrand.com or 01644 420 374 or pop in to the CatStrand Schools: Visit the school office or call Dalry Primary on 01644 430 105 (for Nursery/ELC too), Dalry Secondary on 01644 430 259 or Kells on 01644 420 340 Carsphairn Heritage Initiative: Contact Karen Hall at carsphairnhi@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie at mcnabb. laurie@dumgal.gov.uk If you would like to add your community organisation to this list please get in touch with the Gazette - contact details are on the back page. GLENKENS CHURCH TIMES CHURCH OF SCOTLAND Sunday Services Balmaclellan: 11am - 2 Apr, 7 May, 4 Jun Carsphairn: 11am - 9 Apr (Easter Sunday), 14 May Kells: 11am - 16 Apr (Communion), 30 Apr, 21 May Dalry: 11am - 23 Apr, 28 May (Communion) Special Services (other than noted already above): Fri 7 April - Good Friday service 7.30pm Kells church. Sat 8 April - Performance of The Passion (A Tale o' Guid Friday), 7.30pm, Dalry Church. Sun 9 Apr, Dawn Service & Breakfast, 7.30am, Balmaclellan War Memorial & Village Hall. For further information contact Rev Pam Bellis on 07751 379 249 or pam@bellisconsultancy.co.uk SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH St Margaret's Church, New Galloway, DG7 3RP Palm Sunday: 10.30am Sung Eucharist, Canon Barry Gilbert presiding Easter Day: 10.30am Sung Eucharist, Revd Dawn Matthew presiding All friends and visitors welcome. After Easter, the Sunday service times are likely to change so please check website or noticeboard outside the church. For further information, please call Dawn Matthew on 01644 420 431 or visit www. stmargaretsnewgalloway.org Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEinformation page 32 GAZETTEinformation Glenkens Gazette page 33 GALLOWAY COMMUNITY TRANSPORT www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org email gct@catstrand.com phone 01644 420374 mobile 07841 512449 April 2023 - May 2023 Regular Services GCT EXCURSIONS GK2 Glenkens-Castle Douglas (Tesco) Wednesday Evenings (Registered Route) Out Return Glasgow Shopping and Culture Saturday 6 May 2023 19:00 Dalry (Underhill) 21:15 19:05 New Galloway 21:10 19:15 Mossdale 21:00 Visit this exciting City to enjoy a day shopping or 19:25 Laurieston 20:50 19:30 Townhead of Greenlaw 20:47 visiting the museums and galleries. Drop offs at 19:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 20:37 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:35 Booking not required Glenkens to Newton Stewart Fortnightly - Tuesday mornings Outward Pickups: Dalry (Underhill) 09:30 New Galloway (Town Hall) 09:35 CatStrand) 09:37 To Aldi Return Pickup Newton Stewart (Aldi Car Park) 11:30 Return fare £3.50 Advance booking required. Member Hire Bothwell Street and Silverburn Shopping Centre. Gardens of Excellence: Corsock House Sunday 28th May 2023 Corsock House garden includes an amazing variety of designed landscapes, from a strictly formal walled garden, through richly planted woodlands full of different vistas. For more info on both these trips, please visit our website at: www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org/excursions or email: gct@catstrand.com for updates GCT has 16-, 15-, and 8-seater minibuses and a fully wheelchair accessible electric car available for hire by community organisations. For information about membership and terms and conditions of hire see the GCT website or phone 07841 512449. Glenkens eBike Club If you are a local Glenkens resident and are interested in joining the Glenkens eBike Club please see our webpage: https://www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org/ebikes phone 07841 512449 or email gctjon@catstrand.com Drivers Needed Galloway Community Transport needs your help to provide a wide range of community transport services across the Stewartry and beyond. MINIBUS DRIVING Minibus drivers with D1 (101 or by test) are needed to do volunteer and paid driving for our wide range of member community groups. PATIENT TRANSPORT We also urgently need drivers with their own cars for our patient transport service. Our volunteer patient transport drivers receive a generous mileage reimbursement and the satisfaction of providing a vital service to vulnerable people in our communities. Interested? Email gct@catstrand.com or phone 07841 512449 Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEinformation page 34 WHAT'S ON April/May APRIL Sat 15, Mambo Jambo and Alan McClure, 7.30pm, CatStrand See p32 for CiC April/May events Tue 18, Citizens Advice Drop-in, 10am4pm, CatStrand Sat 1, Battle of the Bands, 7.30pm, CatStrand, see p23 Thu 20, Open Stage with Alan McClure, 7.30pm, CatStrand Tue 4, Citizens Advice Drop-in, 10am4pm, CatStrand Thu 20 & Fri 21, DG Voice Inclusivity Training Sessions, venue tbc, see p29 Wed 5, Dalry Film Club: The Lost King, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Fri 21-Tue 25, Glenkens Food Hub Open for Orders, openfoodnetwork. org.uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop Fri 7 - Tue 11, Glenkens Food Hub Open for Orders, openfoodnetwork. org.uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop Sat 8, Happiness Collectors, 11am & 12.30pm, CatStrand Sat 8, Mike & Ruthy of The Mammals, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 8, Bairn Banter's Easter Egg Hunt, 10am, Carsphairn School Playground, see p7 Sat 8, Glenkens Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 8, A Tale o’ Guid Friday and Ayont, 7.30pm, Dalry Church, admission free, donations Abbas Read Orphanage, Malawi. Sat 8 & Sun 9, Carsphairn Heritage Centre's Easter Open Weekend, see p26 Tue 11, Vanishing Point Unplugged presents SPIN!, 7.30pm, CatStrand Tue 13, Ken Words Writers Cafe, 1pm, CatStrand David Tallontire CHIMNEY SWEEP Covering the Glenkens & further afield 07709 144 299 - wood burners - multi-fuel stoves - open fires - Agas - Rayburns - birds nest removal with CCTV inspection - certificates issued - feel free to call for advice - Find me on Facebook Sat 22, Patrick Monahan: Classy, 7.30pm, CatStrand Mon 24, Kiki Dee & Carmelo Luggeri: The Long Ride Home Tour, 7.30pm, CatStrand Wed 26, Dalry Film Club: Mrs Harris Goes to Paris, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 29, Dalry Police Station Drop-in, 11am-12.30pm Sat 29, Plant & Bake Sale, 10am12noon, St Margarets Church, New Galloway, see p3 MAY Tue 2, Citizens Advice Drop-in, 10am4pm, CatStrand Fri 5 to Tue 9, Glenkens Food Hub Open for Orders, openfoodnetwork. org.uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop Family and friends coming to stay? Short of space? Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 www.covenanters-holidaycottagescotland.co.uk Sat 6, GCT Bus Trip: Glasgow, see p30 Sat 6 - Mon 8, Carsphairn Coronation Weekend Thu 11, Ken Words Writers Cafe, 7pm, CatStrand Sat 13, Glenkens Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall Sun 14, Lulo Rheinhardt & Yuliya Lonskaya, 7.30pm, CatStrand Tue 16, Citizens Advice Drop-in, 10am4pm, CatStrand Wed 17, Dalry Film Club: The Courier, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Fri 19 - Tue 23, Glenkens Food Hub Open for Orders, openfoodnetwork. org.uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop Sun 21, Vri, 7.30pm, CatStrand Tue 23, Glenkens Community Spaces Network meeting, see p6 Thu 25 - Sun 28, Knockengorroch Festival, Knockengorroch Farm, Carsphairn, see p2 Sun 28, GCT Bus Trip: Corsock House, see p30 JUNE Sat 24, SongWave Choir Summer Concerts, 3pm, Dalry Town Hall 唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀Ⰰ 䰀漀漀猀攀 䌀漀瘀攀爀猀Ⰰ 䘀愀戀爀椀挀猀Ⰰ 䌀甀猀栀椀漀渀猀 刀攀昀椀氀氀攀搀 䘀爀攀攀 䔀猀琀椀洀愀琀攀猀 吀栀攀 圀漀爀欀猀栀漀瀀Ⰰ 䴀漀渀礀戀甀椀攀Ⰰ 䌀漀爀猀漀挀欀⸀ 䐀䜀㜀 ㌀䐀夀 眀眀眀⸀䠀愀爀爀椀猀ⴀ唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀 ㄀㘀㐀㐀 㐀㐀 㔀㈀㤀 Glenkens Gazette GAZETTEinformation page 35 REGULAR ACTIVITIES Balmaclellan Village Hall Tuesday Afternoon Teas, 1st Tues each month, to book email warburton.julie@ googlemail.com Glenkens Crafters, Wed 10am-12noon, for info contact julia.higgins55@outlook. com Books in Balmaclellan Community Library, Wed 10.30–12.30 & 5.30-7pm; Fri 5.30-7.30pm; Sat 10.30am -12.30pm (tea & coffee available on Sat). Balmaclellan Blether, 3rd Thu each month, contact warburton.julie@ googlemail.com Glenkens Art Workshop, Thu 2-4pm, contact t_leach1@sky.com Easiobics, Tue & Fri 9.30-10.30pm, contact mlfagan@live.co.uk Circuits, Sat 8-9am, contact John 07544 713 586 Kettelbells, Mon & Tue 6-7pm, contact John 07544 713 586 The Smiddy, Balmaclellan Digital Art, (age 11+), Tue 4.30-5.30 The Men's Shed, Balmaclellan Opening Times: Monday, 9.30am - 12.30pm Wednesday, 9.30am - 12.30pm, Wood Carving, 2-4pm Thursday, Art Group, 2-4pm Friday, 9.30am - 12.30pm Saturday, 9am - 12noon Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn Carsphairn SWI, 3rd Thu of the month, 7.30pm,Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn Craft Group, Fri 10am-12noon, includes tea & coffee, Lagwyne Hall, contact carsphairncraftgroup@gmail.com Bairn Banter; family stay & play session, 0-7 years, Sat 10-11.45am, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn CatStrand, New Galloway Margaret Morris Movement: Health Play (age 5-8), Mon (during term time), 3.45-4.30pm Margaret Morris Movement: Youth Grade (age 8-15), Mon (during term time), 4.30-5.30pm Young Art Ambassadors (age 11+), Mon bi-weekly, 4.30-5.30pm Citizens Advice Drop-ins, every other Tue from 4th April, 10am-4pm Boccia Club, 2nd Wed of the month, 2-3pm Newton Stewart Bus Service to Tesco, Wednesday evenings Dramarama, (age 6-10), Wed 4.30-5.15pm Up Skills: 3D Animation, (age 15+), Wed 6-8pm Young Writers Cafe, (age 12+), Wed 6-7.30pm, monthly A Chance to Dance, (age 12+), Thu biweekly, 5.30-7pm VAN: Peer Review Sessions, (age 16+), 7-9pm, monthly Dance Weekenders (age 12+), Sat monthly, 1–4pm Art Explorers, (age under 10), Sat biweekly 10-11am Sat Art Club, (age 10-15), Sat bi-weekly 11.15am-12.30pm Creative Portfolio Development, (Age 15+), Sat monthly CatStrand Youth Players, meet weekly, contact briangm@catstrand.com New Galloway Town Hall Due to work on the building please confirm activities are running on 07749 249 781 or newgallowaytownhall@gmail. com Men's Monday Morning Coffee, Mon 9.30-11am Glenkens Youth Activity Group, ages 11+, Mon 7-8.30pm, Dalry School Gym Hall, contact youthwork.ling@gmail.com or 07719 708 668 LING Lunches, Tue, 12.30-2pm. currently held at Kitty's, opposite NG Town Hall, contact communityinclusion.LING@gmail. com Sports Evenings, indoor bowling & table tennis, Tues 7-9pm, New Galloway Scout Hut, contact Ray on 01644 420 438 Tai Chi, 10.30-11.30am, suspended, contact gentletaichigroup@gmail.com Zumba, Wed 7-8pm, suspended, contact samantha.rushton@hotmail.co.uk booking essential Martial Arts, Thur 5.30-6.30pm (beginners & tots) & 7-9pm (age 6+), suspended, contact @Facebook KMANews or kmabrian@gmail.com Gentle Yoga, Fri, transferred to Balmaclellan, contact kathyr64@hotmail. co.uk Informal Family Badminton, (net and racquets but no line markings), New Galloway Town Hall, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Glenkens Charity Shop Opening Times: Mon, Tue & Thu - 10am-1pm Wed, Fri & Sat - 10am-4pm Glenkens Community Centre Dalry Good Neighbours Club, Tue, 2-4pm, contact Michelle on 07795 613 148 Schools Out, Wed 3-4.30pm, kids & parents after-school social club, contact Michele on 07940 313445 Clachan Crafters, Thu 2-4pm, contact Sarah on 07500 861 041 Yoga For All, Fr 9.15-10.15am, contact Amy on 07733 111 466 Friendship Group, Sat (excluding Glenkens Producers Market days), 1011.30am, contact Anne on 01644 430 052 Table Tennis/Badminton, available to hire by arrangement, contact Sarah on 07500 861 041 Dalry Library Main St, Dalry, Tel: 01644 430 234 Random Writers (age 12+), Thu biweekly, 3.45–5pm Glenkens Book Group, last Friday of each month, 2pm, call June to book on 01644 420 361 Library Opening Times: Tue, 2-5pm, for books and other walk-in Fri, 11.30am-12.30pm for NEC Bus Pass and Blue Badge appointments and PCs, and 1-4.30pm for books and other walkin services: Appointments can be booked in the library or on 01387 260 196. Dalry Town Hall Tai Chi, video-led instruction, Mon, 2-3pm, contact lesleyblissett52@gmail. com Dog Training, Tue, 7pm, contact Eric Broadhurst on 07831 590 822 Song Share, 1st Friday each month, 8-11pm, contact anne.chaurand@ btinternet.com Various Cosy Corner, Tue, 1-5pm, Crossmichael Church Hall, contact Anne on 07889 016 963 Crossmichael Heritage Centre, Wed & Fri, 1.30-4.30pm Cub Scouts, Wed 6.15-7.30pm, Scout Hall, New Galloway Clachan Crafters, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, Thurs 2-4pm, contact 07500 861 041 or minimac01644@gmail. com Glenkens Community Shop, open Wed, Fri & Sat, 10am- 4pm Knockvennie Hall Heat Bank & Snooker Club, contact Andrew on 01556 690 677 Outdoor Bowls, Dalry, contact Fiona Ramsay on 01644 430 587 Snooker/Indoor Bowls, contact Gary on 01644 430 521 Glenkens Gazette Join the Glenkens Walkers M y name is Jackie, and I originally had the idea for of creating a walking group to help me get to know the area better and meet new people. I’ll be walking from the Catstrand each Wednesday morning, and it would be great to have some company. If you’ve got a route in mind I’d happy to tag along - I don’t mind what the walk is like; muddy, off-road, on road or around town. I love using the AllTrails app. It has both a free and premium option and is great for plotting your walks and looking for walks in the area. A walk I went on recently was the Mossdale Kite Trail, which is a 2.5 mile circular route. AllTrails says: "...This trail is great for birding, hiking, and walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. "The route starts off along a wide gravel path before turning right and into open farmland. There may be loose cows in this area so care should be taken. Then it's through a gate and the path narrows to a very overgrown trail. "There's a lovely spot by the loch for a snack and to take a few minutes to chill." I pretty much agree with the write up from AllTrail. As far as it being a challenging walk, page 36 as an overweight, unfitish 40-something I didn’t find it especially hilly or long but I guess I’d say the challenge is the terrain at times. There is a car park at the start of the walk with room for maybe 10 cars Hope to see you at the CatStrand next Wednesday at 9.30am for some more exploring! Vsit the Glenkens Walkers Facbook page for routes and photos of our walks. Jackie Jackie has just been recruited as LING's new community inclusion worker - see page 11 for more on this. Mossdale Kite Trail as viewed on the AllTrails app 25th — 28th MAY CELEBRATING with the FINEST MUSIC from the CELTIC DIASPORA & ACROSS THE GLOBE, deep in the GALLOWAY HILLS ZENTONE (High Tone + Zenzile) / THE LANGAN BAND DOWDELIN / SOLO BANTON / OLD BLIND DOGS / MARINA P SHEELANAGIG / MUNGO’S HI FI SOUND SYSTEM ´ / CUT CAPERS YIDDISH TWIST ORCHESTRA / THE DRYSTONES / ROKIA KONE SUBHIRA QUINTET / AKRAM ABDULFATTAH / AN DANNSA DUB & many more names still to be announced. www.knockengorroch.org.uk/tickets WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Editing & Design: sarah.ade@gmail.com JUN/JUL COPY DEADLINE: 5 MAY The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No SC032050 The role of the Gazette is to represent the voice of the community and does not represent the views of GCAT.  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. 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For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Corsock, Crossmichael, Kirkpatrick Durham, Laurieston, Mossdale, New Galloway, Parton and St John’s Town of Dalry February/March 2023 ISSUE 134 FREE Community Push to Revive Glenkens Sports MUGA A community bid is being made to bring a sports pitch back to life. A steering group of Dalry Community Properties Trust is looking to take on the multi-use games area (MUGA) near the school. This would enable the use of the facility - which has been closed for over eight years due the growth of moss and algae on the surface - by local groups, schools, individuals and businesses. Sarah Ade from the group said: “We have had a great response from the communities of the Glenkens to our shout-out asking who would use the MUGA. For a successful application for transfer of the space from D&G Council to community ownership we have to illustrate a strong case for community use and community benefit. The feedback we have had will lend the application a lot of weight. There have been suggestions ranging from wheelchair basketball to walking football to tennis and ebike training. The space is really versatile, and the community are once again excited to be able make use Members of the community along with some of the Dalry Secondary School basketball team in front of the Glenkens MUGA © Jim McEwan/The Galloway News of one of our key Glenkens assets. "We have a really active group of young people who play basketball and it would be a brilliant place for them to practise. The school has a basketball team which would utilise the space, as well as using it for other sports." Becca Nelson, the new Glenkens Asset Network Facilitator, said: "I'm delighted to see the groundswell of support for getting the MUGA back into use as a community facility, and am looking forward to supporting the team of volunteers in their efforts to achieve this." Anyone who would like to comment on what the pitch could be used for should email glenkens-muga@outlook.com Biosphere Team Set Tenants Face Sights on Dalry as Glenkens Eco Office Site Eviction The Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere’s plans for a sustainable office space at St John’s Town of Dalry are gaining momentum. Architects from Prospus Group, who have a base in Dumfries, have been appointed and work on the Biosphere’s new hub will begin in the first half of 2023. The site earmarked for the development is 0.3 Ha of council-owned land at Underhill, which would be leased to the Biosphere over 20 years. In accordance with UNESCO’s sustainability ethos, the office will be a low carbon building sympathetic to the natural environments in and around Dalry, with a light ‘footprint’ on the ground. As well as creating a workplace to house the Biosphere’s team of eleven full-time staff, options to create meeting rooms, exhibition space and co-working areas that local people can access are also being explored. Continued on p10... A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative Nine tenants in private rented accommodation in the Glenkens have been given notice to quit. News was confirmed as the Gazette went to print. The owners of the Kenmure Steadings south of New Galloway have announced they are selling six properties. The tenants, some of whom have lived on the site for over 20 years, have been told that they have eight to twelve weeks to find somewhere else to live. New Galloway & Kells Community Council is writing to the landlord seeking a meeting to discuss the issue. The Gazette will carry further details in the next edition. See other housing news pages 8 & 9... www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 Carsphairn Primary School Receives Temporary Reprieve Following the recent consultation for closure of Carsphairn Primary, Dumfries & Galloway Council's Learning and Education Directorate is recommending that the Education Committee vote on 28 March to continue the current mothballed status for up to two years. Carsphairn Community Council (CCC) question the period of two years which appears not to follow the relevant clauses of the Education Act 2010. Although CCC are cautiously pleased that a case could not be made to close the school at this time, mothballing rather than reopening the school means that children who wish to learn at their local school will continue to be forced to travel to Dalry. This means a potential journey of 20 miles to Dalry and back in all weathers, if resident in the Upper Deugh valley, where it is currently likely a primary school child will settle in the near future. Liz Holmes, chair of CCC, said: "We are glad that firstly the schools inspector who assessed the closure report felt that the case for closure had not been adequately made, and secondly that the the Learning and Education Directorate seem to have recognised that Carsphairn's affordable housing project, led by the South of Scotland Community Housing group and aimed at regeneration of Carsphairn community, should bring young families with children to settle in Carsphairn. "These children will have the undeniable right to be educated in their local school in their local community [not one at least ten miles away]." CCC would like to thank all the residents, parents, and pupils who took the time to respond to the consultation, and who demonstrated overwhelming support to re-open the school. They would like to remind Carsphairn-based families who are completing forms to enrol their children in school/ nursery to place Carsphairn School as their first choice on the form, despite its current mothballed status, as this clearly shows the desire for the school to re-open. Liz continued: "CCC will continue working with the community and D&G Council to try and save the school, encourage more young families to move to Carsphairn and help us to ensure the long term sustainability of our community." Ever Considered a Spring Career in Childminding? Flower If so, could 2023 be the Fundraiser year to make it happen? SCMA staff and find out more. Creche facilities will be available. There is currently an exciting opportunity for residents of the Glenkens looking to set up as childminders. Eligible candidates will be supported in becoming registered childminders by accessing a host of free benefits including: • Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA) induction support programme • Tailored and personal support sessions from SCMA’s dedicated Childminding Development Support Officers • SCMA policy toolkit comprising guidance and templates • Start-up package of training courses: Business Side of Childminding, Child Protection in a Childminding Setting and Parental Involvement • On completion of registration with the Care Inspectorate and HMRC, a £1,000 start-up grant You can find out more about the process at a nocommitment Information Event at the Smiddy in Balmaclellan on 27 Feb – just drop in any time between 4-6pm to meet Glenkens Community & Arts Trust’s Connecting in Communities (CiC) team is supporting the SCMA in this campaign, as part of their grant from the Blackcraig Community Benefit Fund. You can stay abreast with what's happening through thier website at www.gcat.scot, the CiC Facebook, by email at jo@catstrand. com or keep your eyes peeled for posters around the Glenkens for more details. Fiona Limbrey, Connecting in Communities SWSRnR, a charity raising funds to support veterans back into work, is trying to sell 2,500 spring flowers to raise £5,000. Robin Hood, who runs the charity, said: "D&G Council has given me a shop in Midsteeple, Dumfries, rent-free until Easter to help me sell the plants - I've sold almost 200 in total so far. Raising £5,000 would fund two HGV licenses for unemployed local veterans, enabling them to get back into work." You may have come across Robin undertaking his other main fundraising activity of pulling charity mascot Jock, a giant wooden statue of a soldier, around the country. "Over the last seven years I have pulled our mascot over 2,000 miles, and the money raised has got 68 veterans back into work," says Robin. So if you happen to be shopping in Dumfries town centre, why not swing by the Midsteeple for some lovley spring flowers in support a worthy cause. Glenkens Gazette page 3 After an exciting few months in development, the new ‘Glenkens Hub’ website and social media channels are moving into a testing phase prior to launch in the spring. weather and areas of interest to Glenkens and district residents. In addition, the website will have a Glenkens-wide events calendar, where organisations can upload upcoming events and activities, plus notifications of local jobs, volunteering opportunities and housing needs. It will also host a wealth of local interest articles, some gleaned from the Gazette backcatalogue and some kindly donated by the Galloway Glens Scheme. So They will be an evolution and an all in all, your one-stop-shop for all amplification of the familiar Gazette things Glenkens! print editions, bringing you regular To help make this happen, we have digital updates on local news, recruited Gail Challis to the role of Glenkens Hub digital editor, supporting Sarah Ade in her ongoing role of Glenkens Gazette editor. Gail lives outside Carsphairn, where she is very active in the community and has a wealth of experience of creating and running community websites. Sarah and Gail will be working behind the scenes through February and March to get the website and social media channels ready for their launch with the April/ May edition of the Gazette. We’re also taking the opportunity to spruce up Gazette Editor, Sarah Ade (left) with newly the Gazette brand. appointed Glenkens Hub Digital Editor, Gail Challis. This Glenkens Hub project has been made possible by funding from the Blackcraig Wind Farm community benefit fund, administered by the Glenkens & District Trust and Foundation Scotland, and from the Galloway Glens Scheme. Thanks go to them as well as to the Gazette subcommittee, who keep the Gazette on the straight and narrow and have been invaluable in the development of this further project. The Glenkens Hub was inspired by the request of the communities as part of the Glenkens and District Community Action Plan and we hope that you find it both enjoyable and informative – just like the Gazette! Gail said: "I'm delighted to be on board and excited to be able to deliver a much needed communication hub for the Glenkens. In the next few weeks we'll be starting beta testing to make sure everything works as it should ahead of the launch in April, when we'll be asking readers to try out the site and give us feedback." For more information or to help with the beta testing phase you can contact Gail on glenkenshub@hotmail.com Helen Keron, Glenkens Community & Arts Trust Executive Manager Crossmichael Cosy Corner Situated in Crossmichael Church Hall, the Cosy Corner is now open every Tuesday afternoon from 1pm until 5pm, providing a warm and welcoming place to spend the afternoon, meet people, make new friends and enjoy reading, chatting and playing board games. Free beverages and a biscuit await and everyone is welcome, whatever their age or interests. Volunteers are keen to get people involved, so do drop in and stay for as long or short a time as you want. And if you have any ideas about anything else the Cosy Corner could do to support the community, we would love to hear from you. For any further information please phone 07889 016 963. Anne Carstairs Glenkens Gazette page 4 opportunities; firstly, meeting twice monthly in a ‘Warm Space’ at the CatStrand auditorium to take part in fun drama games and activities and share light refreshments supported by the Co-op. No previous experience is necessary to take part in this informal and friendly club, which is open to all aged 18+. At Connecting in Communities (CiC) we have completed our community consultation into future plans to connect the communities of the Glenkens through fun and exciting initiatives. I was delighted to meet more than 100 people from the communities of the Glenkens, all giving their views and comments on how they see community work in the Glenkens in 2023 and beyond. This feedback will be collated into a Glenkens Review Community Report - watch this space! Also, this month the CatStrand will have the first of what will become regular outreach sessions from Citizens Advice Scotland where you can get confidential advice on everything from how to read a smart meter to help with bills and what benefits you may be entitled to. In other news, CiC are pleased to announce a flurry of new activities for 2023. You can find a full timetable of activities for Feb/Mar on page 29, but just to whet your appetite here is a taste of what's on offer... A monthly Spanish Dance class where you can develop skills while keeping fit learning the flamboyant and fascinating steps associated with Spanish dance. Breeze Cycle Rides for ladies and their children is launching on the last Saturday in March; we are delighted to be collaborating with British Cycling ‘Let’s Ride’ to bring this exciting opportunity to the Glenkens. Another new introduction to our programme is a monthly Tea Dance with music ranging from the 1940s to the 1980s. Our entertainer will provide music and songs to dance to through the decades, so dust off your dancing shoes and get in touch to book your place on the dance floor. A monthly Games Night at the CatStrand starts on Friday 24 February, where the bar will also be open. There will also be indoor boules, board games and card games for friends and families to enjoy, relax and do something different together in a welcoming, warm space. No need to book for this evening of fun social games, just turn up on the night. Last but not least, coming in before the curtain falls, is our newlyformed Glenkens Community Drama Club. The club has two dramatic Then the Glenkens Community Drama Group opens its doors to parents and carers with primary school aged children, meeting on the last Sunday of the month at The Smiddy in Balmaclellan. An engaging family atmosphere lends itself to the art of theatre making through fun and informal drama games. This is an ideal opportunity to engage in the important social activity of play and make-believe in a supportive, informal and welcoming environment. Thank you to all our activity leaders and attendees for their enthusiasm and commitment to help make our events so successful, and thank you as well to our funders, the Big Lottery and the Blackcraig Wind Farm, for supporting our efforts in this. The Glenkens Food Month partnership have begun planning an exciting feast of events for September 2023 – if you’re interested in being involved, or have some ideas, pop along on 6 February to Balmaclellan Village Hall at 6pm or get in touch with Lisa. For further information on any of the above please get in touch on lisa@catstrand.com or 01644 420 374 - I look forward to hearing from you! Lisa Ridley, GCAT Connecting in Communities Team Leader Dalry Good Neighbours Club Good Neighbours groups have a long history in Dalry; it started as The '73 Club, which went on to become Guid Neighbours, then it faded out and resurfaced in the 90s as the Good Neighbours Club. In its last incarnation it was a very popular group with people coming from as far afield as Laurieston, Crossmichael, Carsphairn, Balmaclellan and New Galloway as well as, of course, from Dalry. The group would like to thank the Glenkens Community Shop for a grant towards the initial rent of the venue for their sessions, which will run at the Glenkens Community Centre on Tuesday afternoons from 2-4pm. With a varied programme promised over the coming weeks and months, why not come along and join in the fun - have a chat and a cuppa, make new friends and catch up with old ones. Watch out for our yellow posters around the Glenkens advertising the coming programme of events. Have you any suggestions for an afternoon session? We are all ears! There are possibilities for transport to be provided back to Balmaclellan and New Galloway if needed, as public transport could be used to get to Dalry by 2pm - just enquire (there would be a small charge for this service). For more information please contact Sarah on 07500 861 041 or Michelle on 07795 613 148. Some of the activities happening at the Dalry Good Neighbours Club in February are: Tuesday 7 - Games Afternoon Tuesday 14 - Kate Kaye; Memories of Childhood Holidays Spent in Dalry Tuesday 21 - Eddie McGaw; Talk and DVD on his Missions to Give Aid to Kids in Kenya Tuesday 28 - Who/What do you think this is? Photo Quiz There will be tea, coffee, biscuits and chatter every week - hope to see you soon! Sarah McAdam Glenkens Gazette page 5 Remembering Jamie Blore Shopkeeper Jamie Blore served the local community for over 32 years before passing unexpectedly at his home in Mossdale on 20 August 2022. Jamie’s journey began in the Midlands, raised by a loving family. Shortly after leaving school, he started work with British Telecom. This led to a formative year working in Norway, a land which he would love for the rest of his days. From here, Jamie took a position as executive engineer in Birmingham Sorting Office for the Royal Mail. It was this part of his story that introduced him to his beloved partner, Annie. After 25 years' work with the Post Office, Jamie desired a better quality of life. He took voluntary redundancy, which opened the door for Annie and himself to travel north, rooting themselves in the picturesque village of Mossdale in 1989. The village would become their “little piece of heaven”, which Jamie would cherish and nourish for the rest of his days. community; this was his world, one of kindness and kinship. A warm welcome would greet all who met him, whether stopping to buy from the shop or asking directions, he always had time to chat and help. People short on change, or in need, would be comforted by Jamie’s reminder they can take what they need, and drop the money off next time. Jamie went above and beyond, whether keeping people informed about power shortages, sorting out stray cows, lost dogs, broken down cars, the list was endless. To Jamie nothing was too much trouble, just part of the service. For many years, he was an active member of the village hall committee, dedicating his time to nurture and protect one of the village's most important assets. Anyone passing through Mossdale would be greeted by a smile and a wave, regardless of whether he was cutting grass or blissfully enjoying his paradise. Jamie leaves behind his beloved partner Annie, and their two children Emma and Dylan. The family thank you for the love and support that continues to bring them much comfort. Jamie, his family, his shop, and his Jamie touched many lives and will Clive Reginald Brayshaw MBE: 1943–2022 a regular reader at St Margaret’s New Galloway (Scottish Episcopal Church) and he served for many years on their Vestry, including a stint as Vestry Secretary. be missed dearly. Whether a friend or a stranger, if you were lucky enough to meet him, you will have glimpsed kindness and community in its purest form. Dylan Blore In Memory of Clive Brayshaw Clive Brayshaw, of The Hill, Balmaclellan, died in November last year after a short illness. A Major in the Royal Artillery, who was awarded an MBE following a difficult tour of Northern Ireland in the 1970s, Clive first lived in Morayshire after retiring from the Army. After meeting Jane Douglas through their joint involvement with SSAFA, they married in 2000 and settled in the Glenkens. He had a successful picture framing business and was also much involved in the community, including both the local churches. Having trained as a Lay Preacher when in Morayshire, he became He also attended services at Balmaclellan Kirk and for many years led the Remembrance Sunday commemoration at the Balmaclellan War Memorial. He had a keen sense of humour (visitors arriving at The Hill are greeted by a sign saying ‘Caution – you are now leaving the nanny state’) and he and Jane were renowned for their generous hospitality and kindness to friends, neighbours and newcomers to the area. taken from the Eulogy by William Douglas Glenkens Gazette page 6 Meeting Our Glenkens Councillors John Denerley, Scottish Conservative & Unionist Local Councillor John Denerley has said a huge "thank you" to everyone who voted for him in the council elections on 5 May 2022. Reflecting on his election, John said: "It was a real pleasure getting to meet so many local people over the election campaign, and to understand the issues most important to you. It is a privilege to be the first deaf Conservative Party member elected in the UK using British Sign Language, and I am humbled and grateful to be given the opportunity to serve my local community having lived here for 20 years." John wants to make positive changes to the local area helping to make greener and sustainable decisions for future generations. He continues: "I care about the things that make the Dee and Glenkens ward so special and promise to be an active and accessible Councillor for everyone. I will be holding regular surgeries so anyone who wants to meet face-to-face to discuss any local issues can do so easily and I can also be easily contacted at any time by phone or email. If I can ever be of any assistance, then please do not hesitate to get in touch with me using the contact details. "I believe that we need to bring more jobs to our communities through improved transport infrastructure and better communications. It is time that Dee and Glenkens got the support it deserves from all levels of Government, and I will work hard to ensure we get our fair share of backing which will allow us to prosper." If you'd like to get in touch with Councillor Denerley please phone 07721 507 134 or email john. denerley@dumgal.gov.uk for an appointment. New Priest for St Margaret's The Bishop of Glasgow and Galloway, the Right Revd Kevin Pearson, has officially announced the appointment of the Revd Dawn Matthew as joint Priest-in-Charge of St Margaret’s New Galloway and All Saints’ Challoch. Dawn and her husband Nick will be moving into the Rectory in New Galloway in early February and, following the Licensing Services on 18th, she will start her public ministry at the end of the month. Both Vestries are delighted with the news and are looking forward to welcoming Dawn and Nick to their congregations and communities. Dawn says, “I am very much looking forward to moving to the Glenkens and working with both churches to serve God together in our communities; sharing our faith and loving others as God loves us. With my husband Nick, and our family, we are excited to be moving to Dumfries and Galloway, a part of Scotland that has become very dear to our hearts over the past few years. We have visited many times in our VW Campervan!” Dawn’s interests include music, walking, wild swimming and home-baking. Bishop Kevin says, “We are happy to welcome Dawn into the life of our Diocese after her service to the people of St John the Evangelist, Hinckley, in the Leicester Diocese, where she led them through the pandemic experience with wisdom, prayerfulness and calm pragmatism. Her experience of community engagement and managing community projects will be of value to us all.” A Tale o’ Guid Friday and Ayont The world premiere of a newly-composed choral work will take place on Easter weekend in Dalry Church. Geoff Davidson, former BBC singer and London-based musician, has written a Passion recounting the Death of Jesus of Nazareth which relates the story from the arrest in Gethsemane to his death on Calvary. A second part recounts the resurrection story. The Glenkens Church Choir will underpin the action with local baritone Robert Lind playing Jesus and, in the second part, Nicola Junor plays Mary Magdalene. Stalwart of Dumfries Musical Theatre Company, Roy Stairmand, speaks the part of the evangelist who tells the story, and Dr Simon Davidson plays Pontius Pilate. The performance will be on Saturday 8 April at 7.30pm, and is conducted by Geoff Davidson. Geoff describes the music as dramatic, vivid, emotionallycharged and moving with “big” tunes, with his orchestrations contained in two Yamaha keyboards. The text is taken from William Lorimer’s Scots translations of the gospels which are gutsy, raw and, at times, unbearably sad. Entrance to this unique event will be free but there will be a collection on exit for the church’s charity, the Abbas Rest Orphanage in Malawi. Geoff Davidson Glenkens Gazette page 7 BUSINESS in the SPOTLIGHT painful existence simply my fate?! Advanced Massage Practitioner Bringing pain relief, deep relaxation and individualised healing to people since 2001 My intention with every person who comes to see me for massage is to be sideby-side with you on your unique journey towards personal wellness and health. My own journey with massage began in October 2001; having experienced historical sports injuries, car crashes and chronic pain for years, I was asking myself how I could recover enough to enjoy life - or was this To cut a long story short, I decided to look ‘outside the box’ and this new perspective resulted in me completing a Remedial Massage Course in Bury at The Northern Institute of Massage (a highly-regarded teaching institution). I gained knowledge and hands-on training from renowned professionals and opened my mind and body to a world where meaningful improvements, and sometimes recovery, were possible. In 2015, after sensing an inner desire to upskill, I went back to The Northern Institute and completed their Advanced Remedial Massage Course. This experience not only transformed my practice as a Massage Therapist, but it also helped change me as a person. I gained advanced knowledge and techniques from experts at the top of British and Japanese Massage, British Physiotherapy, and Osteopathy. Having honed my professional massage and mobilisation practice, my intention in every session is to better understand your problems and the relevant barriers to healing, and to listen to your personal goals. I have expanded my toolkit to include professional mobilisation techniques, turning what would be a deeply relaxing massage into an actively therapeutic experience where more complex injuries and trauma are addressed. To my mind, moderate to severe pain is not a requirement of massage, nor to the healing process; where there is excess pain there is contraction and mistrust, leading to resistance. My philosophy is to do no harm and to foster safety and trust where we collaborate on what occurs in every session. I am aware that not everyone who presents for massage can fully heal and recover: each person is unique and some of you are learning to live with chronic or progressive conditions/injuries. What I can promise is that within our therapeutic partnership, we will optimise your capabilities and perhaps even exceed your previous expectations of what your body/mind system can achieve. As I continue in my professional practice, learning something new every day, I hope to keep helping people from all walks and stages of life to heal and relax. This ability to deeply relax is, for some of us, a neglected skill and a key element in long-term recovery, health, and wellbeing. Alongside you, For contact details see below... A D TIMBER SEASONED FIREWOOD FOR SALE HARDWOOD SOFTWOOD KINDLING LOCAL DELIVERY 07884262533 07787416460 N ew Galloway Golf Club Founded Foun ded 1902 www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk - 01644 420737 Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Advanced Massage Practitioner Blair Glenkens Gazette page 8 Shout-out for Sites Do you own land or redundant buildings in and around Carsphairn? The right sort of housing is crucial to any thriving community, and underpins many of our aspirations for the Glenkens. Despite the current challenges, there are lots of exciting plans afoot for community housing all across the area - come along to a Housing Forum at 7.30pm on Thursday 9 February at The Smiddy, Balmaclellan, to hear about those plans and what other communities have done with new builds and retro-fits. South of Scotland Community Housing (SoSCH) will be there to report back on the Housing Needs Survey that the Glenkens & District Trust commissioned, and the Pamela Young Trust will be there too. Come along to find out more and share any ideas/thoughts you have! Helen Keron, Executive Manager, GCAT If so, South of Scotland Community Housing (SOSCH) would like to hear from you! SOSCH are at present working with Carsphairn Community Council to identify buildings and sites which may be considered suitable to develop community-owned affordable housing for local needs. To assess need and demand for affordable housing in Carsphairn, the Carsphairn Housing Survey is open and will close mid-February. Please follow the link to the survey to complete: www. surveymonkey.co.uk/r/CarsphairnSurvey If you have buildings or land you may consider would be of interest, then you can leave your contact details on the survey form and SOSCH will be in touch. If you would like to discuss further, please get in touch with Alison Gordon at SOSCH on alison.sosch@outlook.com or 07743446721. For further information on community-led affordable housing please visit www.sosch.org HOME WANTED IN THE GLENKENS We are seeking to buy a home with 2-3 bedrooms and 3-5 acres of land. Anywhere and any condition considered - please help us to stay in the Glenkens! Contact Abi and Bruce on 07340 531506 or abi@mordin.net Glenkens Gazette page 9 Technically Homeless Back in late June, mud oozes up, covering my spangled sandals and sliding between my toes. Rain pours steadily down on us – my two oldest daughters and me. Despite the weather, there’s excitement in us, bubbling up. "I really think this might be the place, Mum." "We could be happy here." "This is it!" we poked our heads into each classroom in turn. "Do you have somewhere to live then?" asked the headmaster. Well no not yet, not exactly – my parents live out near Dalbeattie, in the same familiar farmhouse I grew up in and we’re going to move in there, just for a few weeks. It's easier to house hunt when you’re local, instead of spending hours trawling the internet from Aberdeen. There wasn’t a lot online anyway so I figured housing and jobs are done the rural way here – word of mouth and connections. My Dad used to have an office in Dalry – he was manoeuvring daily. We have spent our time phoning estate agents, farmers, land owners, writing to people and responding to tip offs - "it’s a bit of a long shot but…" And the answer is always "no". No housing. Nothing to rent. Doesn’t meet the government standards. Your family is JUST TOO BIG. It’s not that I feel unwelcome – people are friendly and good and seem to want us to stay. There just isn’t anywhere. Carsphairn School is mothballed, and no children can swoop in and save it. Because they’d effectively be homeless. I was told about a wee place – it’s for sale though, not to rent. It's not too expensive. I think £365,000 was the asking price but it’s been about for a while so they might take less… We could buy a nice big campervan and live in it. Except its minus seven degrees outside and we’re just not THAT hardy. We could wait for a council house. Except we’re eligible for a house with five bedrooms and there isn’t one. Their voices ring out, full of expectation. I peek out from under the hood of my rain coat. Looming above us - Queen Mary’s Castle. It’s crumbling and roofless, and, coming out of the rain, it looks dark and uninviting. "What, here??" I’m a bit more of a realist. "No! Not here, exactly. Just this area." We’ve come to Dumfries and Galloway to scout out the schools. Spent the last few days touring all the high schools, all dressed up – hoping the children might find one they want to go to, and we can leave the endless car-park concrete expanse of Aberdeen. And two hours before we drive back up the road, we came to Dalry High School. Note to self – must type in ‘St. Johns Town of’ before the name Dalry as I almost booked in to see a wee place in Edinburgh. This might become slightly irritating when using Google, but I am willing to overlook it. They loved Dalry Secondary School. Both did. I was a bit sceptical at first glance but clearly one shouldn’t judge a place on the vintage of its pebble dash alone. The headmaster was welcoming and relaxed and spoke about the pros and cons of a small rural school. He showed us round and when we realised it was actually impossible to get lost, my eldest got really excited. All those fears that have haunted the final year of primary school vanished and she was relaxed and interested. I could see she was going to be able to learn here and grow into a strong young person. I could see the teachers were good, and the other children looked curious and shy as the ranger for the Southern Upland Way for years – maybe he knows of some folk I can ask. Anyway, I was confident that we’d find somewhere to live. The writhing flapping problem of finding a good (not terrifying) high school was surely more of a challenge and that had turned out to be quite easily solved. Well. If I only had a couple of pennies to rub together. Or maybe a few hundred thousand pounds. Or a flat to sell, in London. But I don’t. I’ve got an SVQ in health and social care and my partner is a gardener but flashing those papers doesn’t get you a mortgage anymore. We both have work so that’s something. We could pay rent on a place - quite easily. If there was one. We could squeeze into that tiny little place in New Galloway, except they don’t take dogs (who’d get a dog!?). We could buy a nice big campervan and live in it. Except its minus seven degrees outside and we’re just not THAT hardy. We could wait for a council house. Except we’re eligible for a house with five bedrooms and there isn’t one. Anything under five bedrooms would be overcrowding because of the ages and genders of the children (I’m told). I thought gender was a thing of the past anyway. I’m told by the Stewartry Homeless Officer that rental properties are like pigeon’s eye teeth. And so here we are, seven months later. Still looking for a place to live. We still stay in the crumbling farmhouse where I grew up with my parents, whose whole lives have been invaded by four grandchildren, a cat with six kittens and two dogs who chase the resident pet rabbits. All sorts of bad things have happened to the MUD situation in the yard now that there are four cars So herewith a plea to someone – I don’t even know who. The first minister? A local councillor perhaps. Or a secret stash of cash. Or a small organisation or idea for generating change. Please build some houses. Affordable. To rent. Or renovate something, anything. A barn, a shack, a hovel. And please change the laws back, so landlords can rent their properties again. We could really do with a home. And we would really like to live in the Glenkens. And we’re not the only ones… Harriet Whitty Glenkens Gazette Continued from front page... The Biosphere is committed to keeping the local community involved in the office design and development as it continues through the year and will be hosting a drop-in session on Wednesday 8 February at Dalry, with the opportunity to view potential architectural designs, speak to the Biosphere’s director and officers about the project, and meet representatives from the partners involved. The land at Underhill area is already used by local dog walkers and children for light recreation but the Biosphere team would like to know more about how locals currently use that space. What are your ideas on how it could be used in the future? How can we celebrate the associations between people and nature? How can we use the UNESCO Biosphere designation to help champion St John’s Town of Dalry? The village has been a designated ‘Biosphere Community’ since 2019 and already offers so much to visitors looking for a place to stop and explore, including Mulloch and Waterside hills, the Watson Bird Trails and the Southern Upland Way. The Biosphere and project partners are examining how to use Underhill’s incredible views across the Glenkens to the Rhinns of Kells (in the core of the Biosphere) to reflect the relationship between people and the land. Work on access to the office’s outdoor space, and the interpretation within, will be led by the Edinburghbased company Bright; their recent projects include the Rhins of Galloway Coastal Path, the Great Tapestry of Scotland, and public engagement for our neighbouring UNESCO Biosphere at Dublin Bay. The Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Biosphere was awarded £1.9 million in funding by South of Scotland Enterprise in 2020 to support the next five years of operations, a relationship that continues in the office project. The planning application for the development at Underhill will be submitted to Dumfries & Galloway Council in the spring, with activity page 10 Out and About in the Biosphere to commence on the ground soon afterwards if permission is approved. The Biosphere is partnering with St John’s Town of Dalry Community Council to ensure consultation on the office project continues to be as accessible as possible to local people, who are invited to get in touch with either organisation at any time with queries or concerns. Public consultation will be facilitated both in-person and online in the weeks and months ahead, beginning with a dropin session on 8th February from 2pm onwards in Dalry Town Hall. All residents are warmly invited to attend. Morag Paterson, on behalf of the Community Council, says: “We are looking forward to working with the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Biosphere as they bring their plans forward to create a headquarters in the centre of Dalry. Having the offices of a UNESCO organisation in our village should be a real boost, both for locals and visitors to the area.” Ed Forrest, the Biosphere’s director, says: “Our Partnership Board, officers and I are delighted to be moving forward with our new eco-office in the Biosphere’s 10th anniversary year. It’s an exciting time for our region as sustainability comes to the fore in public policy, private enterprise, and tourism initiatives such as Scotland’s UNESCO Trail. It’s also an incredibly challenging time, in terms of land use, economic wellbeing, and keeping our communities connected and our heritage alive. We sincerely hope the Biosphere’s presence in St John’s Town of Dalry will provide active, tangible support in all these areas for many, many years to come.” More information about Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere is available at www.gsabiosphere.org.uk For any queries about the office development or public engagement process, please contact the Biosphere via info@ gsabiosphere.org.uk or the Community Council via sjtdalrycc@gmail. com Pictured: Left- the area covered by the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere. Top - the Biosphere team. Glenkens Gazette page 11 Thinking Differently About Our Forests In a world of consultations, feedback deadlines and community engagement, trees can sometimes be seen as a bewildering topic. The Fantastic Forest Festival is a chance to approach the question of tree cover from new perspectives. How do we interact with trees, what benefits do they give us, what are the more intangible connections we have with our woodlands? The festival consists of 11 public events, supported by a Leeming & Paterson Artist’s Residency and a strand of school-based activities. These combine to give an opportunity for people of all interests and ages a chance to think differently about trees, forests and woodlands in Galloway. The events include the chance to hear from tree champions, such as the author Guy Shrubsole who will be talking on 15 February about his search for the Lost Rainforests of Britain. Separately, Peter Norman from South West Scotland Environmental Information Centre and Malcolm Haddow from the Biosphere both have events that explore the recording and identification of local indicator species – trees and more helping attendees increase their tree knowledge and contribute their findings to the wildlife records. The Glenkens premiere of Riverwoods: An Untold Story in the Catstrand on 8 February is a chance to watch this award winning and highly acclaimed film telling the story of Atlantic Salmon and the complex relationship between fish and forest. This will be followed by a panel discussion from experts and enthusiasts about the main themes in the film, with a chance to put your questions to the panel. On the 24 February, Dalry Town Hall hosts an event called ‘Imagining our Future Woodlands’ which seeks to push further on the question of what we need from Galloway’s future woodlands. This event is led by GCAT’s ‘Watson Bird’ project and will bring together a range of local and national experts to consider our local issues in the context of national policy. Throughout the festival, Leeming & Paterson will be leading an Artists' residency, exploring creative ways of engaging widely on the topic of woodlands in Galloway, outside the normal engagement channels. This includes two artist-led walks on 28 January and 26 February. Aside from these events, look out for postcards and opportunities to input across the Glenkens and surrounding area. I am excited by what is in store. It feels like a chance to remind ourselves why we like trees and the range of services and benefits they provide. Galloway is playing a very important part in the national land use and commercial planting discussions. I hope one outcome of the festival is that a wider range of people engage in this discussion and we all feel able to have a say on the future for trees in Galloway. The events are being organised by a wide range of partners, see poster on the next page for details. To find more information and to book your tickets, search www. eventbrite.co.uk for ‘Galloway Glens’. See you there… McNabb Laurie Glenkens Gazette page 12 A RANGE OF PARTNERS ARE COMING TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE THE FORESTS AND WOODLANDS OF GALLOWAY. HOW CAN WE BETTER UNDERSTAND AND ENGAGE WITH THE TREES IN OUR LANDSCAPE - THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE! 27 January Launch of Festival & Exhibition in CatStrand 28 January Can’t See the Woods for the Trees 04 February The Biosphere’s Most Wanted 08 February Riverwoods: Do fish really grow on trees… 11 February Investigating Galloway’s Native Woodland Launching the festival and an exhibition of work by Donald Watson & Leeming & Paterson which will be on display at the Catstrand for the coming month. 7.00pm @ Catstrand, no tickets required. Drinks & nibbles upon arrival. A friendly gathering with creative conversations and artist talks from Leeming & Paterson, exploring our woodland habitats. 10am-1pm @ Balmaclellan Smiddy. See Eventbrite for full info + book ticket. Learn about the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere’s Most Wanted Project which aims to use citizen science to record local rarities using our phones, followed by a step-by-step tutorial and demonstration on how to use the iNaturalist app. 10.00-11.30 @ Dalry Town Hall, tickets via Eventbrite After watching the critically acclaimed and award-winning film together, an expert panel will discuss and answer any questions. 7.30pm film starts @ Catstrand, tickets via Eventbrite. An introduction to the native woods of Galloway for anyone who would like to get involved in their conservation, whether through recording their wildlife, researching their history or campaigning for their protection. Presented by Peter Norman from SWSEIC. 10am-12noon, followed by a walk. Tickets via eventbrite. Guy Shrubsole, author of ‘Lost Rainforests of Britain’ talks about his recent work and why the word ‘rainforest’ matters. 15 February The Lost Rainforests of Britain 18 February ‘Spruce Plucking’ World Championships 22 February National Trust for Scotland: ‘Treetastic’ at Threave Nature Reserve A day celebrating Trees on the Threave Nature Reserve, home to the Threave Landscape Restoration Project. Winter Tree ID workshop, creative tree crafts, tree folklore and storytelling, a tree trail, and tree planting. 10am-3.30pm. £3.50 per person, booking via ‘Threave Garden and Estate’ on eventbrite. 22 February The Future of Woodlands in Dumfries & Galloway How has Southern Scotland’s tree cover changed through history, why our woodlands were originally established and how this is changing. 24 February Imagining our Future Woodlands Join us for conversations with a variety of different voices and communities of interest – local and national - as we consider Galloway’s future woodland interests and ambitions. 26 February A Walk in the Woods 7.30pm, Online event, tickets via Eventbrite. If Spruce self-seeds in the wrong place, could it be plucked? A fun opportunity to get out onto the hillside, irrespective of the weather. See channels for more info. Starting 2pm, See Galloway Glens channels channels for more info and how to take part! 7.30pm, Hybrid event – in Balmaclellan Smiddy or Online, tickets via Eventbrite. 10.30-3pm @ Dalry Town Hall, tickets via Eventbrite. An artist-led, immersive walk in the woodlands with Leeming & Paterson, with a chance to look back at the activity of the festival. 10am-1pm, tickets via Eventbrite. ALL TICKETS FOUND ON EVENTBRITE.CO.UK BY SEARCHING ‘GALLOWAY GLENS’, UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED. A partnership initiative, including: Glenkens Gazette page 13 RSELF & BE PART OF THE FESTIVA U O Y S S E L E X PR The Fantastic Forest Festival is an event for everyone and we would really like to hear from as many people, of all ages, as possible. Every idea is important to us and we would love to hear your voice. Let’s make a noise! TAKING PART IS EASY Simply let us know, in words and pictures, your thoughts in the space above. The following prompts may help but anything goes ✿ Imagine your perfect future Forest – for nature, climate and people ✿ How do different types of woodland, or individual trees, make you feel? EXPRESS YOURSELF - Individual words, poems, statements, pictures, paintings, graffiti …anything goes. Go wild. Use your imagination!!! Everything you think of is valid and all thoughts will be completely anonymous. Our artists in residence, Ted Leeming and Morag Paterson, will use these responses to inspire their final artistic outcomes. Simply take a photo of this page on your phone including your ideas and email them to fantasticforests@gmail.com If you prefer to submit your original ideas, please feel free to use a blank sheet of paper and submit it to the boxes we have located in shops and community buildings throughout the Glenkens. Glenkens Gazette page 14 Feedback Sought on Castlemaddy Forest Plan Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is looking for feedback on its proposed ten-year plans for the forests it looks after in the area south of Carsphairn. “This is a great opportunity for local people to come along and speak to us about our outline plans for these forests but also for us to get some feedback. “There are a lot of competing demands on forestry and balancing all of the factors involved is quite a complex process. “We usually find that local As part of a regular forest management people are always interested process, FLS is revising the Castlemaddy to know what is happening Land Management Plan (LMP), which in their local forests and covers an area of 2,826 hectares and it’s always good to get includes Carminnows, Dundeugh, their insight and comments Marscalloch and Polmaddy forests. 8 February from 2pm to 8pm, and Dalry on the things that are Village Hall on Friday 10 February The long-term vision for the area important to them. from 2pm to 8pm. features a mix of actions that include “Hopefully, everyone who has an interest maintaining sustainable timber Anyone who is unable to attend can look will be able to make it to one of the two production, restoring ancient woodland, through the documents online and either1 ‘drop in’ events in February and share Clatteringshaws advert 57 x 120.pdf Clatteringshaws advert 57 x 120.pdf 1 28/10/2014 16:31:16 managing of the historic environment and send any comments or queries to the their thoughts.” conserving biodiversity and water quality. email address provided, or can complete The drop-in sessions are booked for Carol Finch, FLS Forest Planner, said: Carsphairn Village Hall on Wednesday the survey on the page. C M Y CM MY Tell us about it Tell us about it We are reviewing the Forest We are reviewing the Forest Plan for Castlemaddie and we want to know what you think. What’s special about this place? How do you use it? What do you think of our plans? Please come along to our public drop in M Y CM MY What’s special about this place? How do you use it? What do you think of our plans? Please come along to our public drop in CY CY CMY CMY K C Plan for Castlemaddie and we want to know what you think. Wednesday 8th February 2023, 2pm to 6pm Lagwyne Village Hall Carsphairn forestryandland.gov.scot K Friday 10th February 2023, 2pm to 6pm Dalry Village Hall Dalry forestryandland.gov.scot 28/10/ Glenkens Gazette page 15 Carsphairn Community Woodland Look Back on 2022 Thinking back over our first operational year at the community woodland, it has certainly been action packed! A little over a year ago we commenced work, firstly felling the diseased larch and created a site for the yard and shed. Stone was then laid and the shed went up in March thanks to funding from South of Scotland Enterprise. We took on staff, Andy and Phoenix, who have proved to be a great asset, running the woodfuel enterprise, alongside the many tasks they undertake in the woodland. The wonderful wildlife hide funded partly by Galloway Glens Scheme (thanks for all your input!) was completed and has been a big hit with everyone. We have held a number of open days, well supported and showcasing a range of rural craft workers, various walks and talks and have even managed to fit in a willow weaving workshop and beginners’ woodwork classes. More to follow in 2023! Many thanks to everyone who has supported us; it's been a great year and there are further exciting developments afoot to look forward to in 2023... watch this space and see you all at Muirdrochwood soon! If you would like to know more or have any suggestions, including workshops you would like to see take place at the community woodland, please email: carsphairncw@ gmail.com To order firewood, details are in the ad below. The CCW Team Reiki Master Praconer     Or would you like to experience a Reiki session for general balancing/ issues with life Distance or face to face sessions for you Firewood for Sale or your pet Carsphairn Community Woodland   ï Free local delivery ï  From Enquiries to: Tel: 07710 124 255 Carsphairn Community Woodland Limited is commi�ed to acquiring, developing and managing local woodlands in a sustainable and environmentally sound way for the long-term benefit of the local community. Website: www.carsphairn.org/CCWL Company Limited by Guarantee SC591976   Full PPE and insured Approved Therapist Reiki can help to restore the body’s natural ability to heal and create balance.  Glenkens Gazette page 16 sponsored by ReConnect Festival Solutions to Climate Anxiety ReConnect is a 4-day festival of film, discussion and nature-based workshops, seeking responses and solutions to climate anxiety. The festival will take place from 2-5 March, and the full programme is available at www.gcat. scot The 2021 census reported that 75% of adults in Britain feel worried about the impact of climate change. 84% of young people worldwide are concerned about climate change, with over 50% navigating feelings of sadness, anxiety, powerlessness, anger, helplessness or guilt. These are natural, rational responses to the climate crisis. But they can impact our everyday lives and overwhelm us to a point of inaction, causing us to withdraw from the climate movement during a vital time. ReConnect Festival aims to address these increasing feelings of climate grief and anxiety, empowering audiences with resilience and a sense of agency in response to the climate crisis. We’re particularly interested in exploring the connections between nature connectivity, arts engagement, and personal wellbeing. We believe a deeper connection with the arts and nature can ground and energise us, strengthening our sense of self, community and place. This is vital to our personal wellbeing and, in turn, our ability to engage with the climate movement effectively. Thus, at the heart of the festival is a focus on restoring and nurturing connections – to others, to nature, and to ourselves - through a programme of film screenings, discussions and creative naturebased workshops. The Programme of agency, empowerment and resilience. We have joined with Crichton Carbon Centre, Propagate and 2050 Climate Group to bring together a range of post-screening activities including a ‘Letters to the Earth’ workshop, discussions and a panel of local young climate leaders. I hope this can be a really valuable and nurturing weekend for people of all generations, but particularly the young people who are disproportionately affected by the climate crisis. Complementing the film programme, we’ll have creative naturebased workshops that will encourage us to tap into our imaginations and reconnect with our natural environment though art. As a way of encapsulating the spirit of ReConnect we’ll be closing the festival with an open mic night, themed around nature, climate change and eco-anxiety. We encourage anyone to come along who has a piece of music, poetry or storytelling which explores their relationship with any of these themes. It’s an opportunity to really connect with our creative spirits as a way of navigating our feelings around the climate crisis within a loving, connected environment that will have grown throughout the weekend. I hope this can be a really valuable and nurturing weekend for people of all generations, but particularly the young people who are disproportionately affected by the climate crisis. We have a really exciting programme planned, with three special film screenings that will allow us to connect with the stories of those on the frontline of the climate crisis. We aim to provide audiences with the tools and space to process their emotional responses to climate change, instilling them with a sense Phoebe Watt, CatStrand Visual Arts, Live Events and Creative Learning Intern Phoebe’s internship at GCAT is supported by the Galloway Glens Scheme and The Holywood Trust. Glenkens Gazette page 17 sponsored by If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk FREE Several dozen willow stems, average length 6ft, ready for planting. Ideal for creating willow fedges, arbors and garden features. Steel garden bench, 1.4metres long, requires painting. Contact: 01644 420 267 Office chair, typical style with wheels and various adjustments. Maroon seat and back. Television/Hifi Table, 5 Glass shelves with black upright stands. CATHERINE@CATSTRAND.COM Approx 110(l) x 45(w) x 75(h)cm. Shelves can be removed. In very good conditions. Contact: Ted on 07887 736 887 WANTED Perennial plants, come and dig them up and take them away; everything must go. Contact: sandjharvie@gmail.com Chest freezer. Contact: Tony on 07507 704 821 Horse manure, rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 Double bed size divan base with drawers. Contact: 01644 460 673 Old lawn mowers/ strimmers/other small machinery. Non-runners/ broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 Glenkens Gazette What a year it has been for the Loch Ken Trust! Our Annual General Meeting was held in November, and it was great to reflect on all our achievements throughout 2022. The launch of the Loch Ken Plan in May 2022 was a key event for the Trust. The Plan is based around the United Nations Global Goals, and if you haven’t had a chance to read it yet you can download online at www. lochken.org.uk/lochkenplan page 18 ...News from the Banks of Loch Ken... This year funding allowed us to hold several events including ClimateReady Ken, Dark Skies, Leave no Trace and Ranger Cookout. Funding also allowed loch side, ranger-led education sessions for all the local primary schools which were very well received. Another highlight of the year was the completion of our defibrillator project. The Loch Ken Trust together with Awards for All have now installed six external defibrillators in heated boxes around the loch. In September this year we embarked on our environmental baseline assessment study which will include ongoing scientific monitoring for the Loch Ken Trust and the wider community. The studies will also guide the work of the Loch Ken Ranger Service to protect, restore and improve our environment. Watch this space for exciting events and projects scheduled for next year! 2022 also saw the Trust take part in many volunteering projects including helping with the Ken Bridge bicentenary preparations and helping out with a local primary school project. The Visitor Management and Infrastructure Plan were also major developments. As one of the first communityled ranger services in Scotland we have ensured that Loch Ken has been better cared for. Our rangers Ken Scott and Leanne Pumpr have worked hard patrolling the loch and building relationships with loch users and landowners. Ken Scott retired at the end of October and we would like to thank him for all his great work. Ranger Leanne is continuing with reduced patrols over the winter. Lots of training and development has taken place, including a site visit to Loch Lomond to seek advice from an established ranger service. We have hosted several college and university visits to our beautiful Loch Ken and promoted responsible use of the countryside. Chairperson Mungo Bryson said: "We are very proud of all that the Loch Ken Trust has achieved in the community over the course of the year, and we would like to thank all our friends and members for their continued support." Our AGM minutes, chairperson's report and finalised accounts can be viewed at www.lochken.org.uk We would love YOU to join us! Membership is free and details can be found at www.lochken. org.uk/membership Pictured: Left - Barney from the Loch Ken Trust with Lisa Simonaitis and the new defibrillator which has been installed at the Forrest Estate. Top - Loch Ken from a kayak (taken by Ken Scott). Below - former Loch Ken Trust Ranger, Ken Scott, running a workshop for local school children. The Loch Ken Trust Team Glenkens Gazette page 19 The Optimistic Environmentalist How the Sea Helps Us Breathe: Marine Photosynthesizers Oxygen makes up 21% of Earth's atmosphere. Scientists estimate that 50-80% of the oxygen production on Earth comes from the ocean. The majority of the produced oxygen is from oceanic plankton - drifting plants, algae, and some bacteria that can photosynthesize i.e. they use carbon dioxide, water and energy from the sun to make food for themselves, releasing oxygen in the process. They're invisible to the naked eye, but produce more oxygen than the largest redwoods. Land plants start appearing in the fossil record 470 million years ago, before dinosaurs, but the ocean was producing oxygen for billions of years before that. The oldest known fossil is from a marine cyanobacterium, a tiny blue-green photosynthesizer that was releasing oxygen 3.5 billion years ago. Today, another cyanobacterium, Prochlorococcus, is the smallest photosynthetic organism on Earth and is the most abundant. It is estimated to be responsible for producing 20% David Tallontire CHIMNEY SWEEP Covering the Glenkens & further afield 07709 144 299 - wood burners - multi-fuel stoves - open fires - Agas - Rayburns - birds nest removal with CCTV inspection - certificates issued - feel free to call for advice - Find me on Facebook of the oxygen in the atmosphere. One in every five breaths you take, you owe to Prochlorococcus - a higher percentage than all of the tropical rainforests combined. Amazingly, scientists only discovered this super-abundant photosynthesizer in 1988! Under a microscope, you can peer inside this filamentous red algae. The thin, hair-like filaments are only one cell wide. The pigment phycoerythrin, makes the red colour, and along with green chlorophyll, allows the algae to undergo photosynthesis. Most marine photosynthesizers have to live in the "photic zone" - the layer at the top of the ocean that is illuminated by sunlight to a depth of about 200 meters (656 ft) below the surface. It's difficult to put a depth limit on it, though, because photosynthesizers keep taking photosynthesis down farther than we thought possible. 886 ft below the ocean's surface, you would barely be able to see light, but a type of red Family and friends coming to stay? Short of space? Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 www.covenanters-holidaycottagescotland.co.uk algae, Corallinales, photosynthesizes down there. The red colour of Corallinales comes from a pigment which enables it to absorb blue and green light, just about the only light that filters down there. Calculating the exact percentage of oxygen produced in the ocean is difficult because the amounts are constantly changing. Scientists can use satellite imagery to track marine photosynthesizers. They measure the chlorophyll so estimating the amount of photosynthesis occurring, but this cannot tell the whole story. The amount of plankton changes seasonally and in response to changes in the water's nutrient load, temperature, and other factors. Studies have shown that the amount of oxygen in specific locations varies with time of day and with the tides. It's important to remember that although the ocean produces at least 50% of the oxygen on Earth, roughly the same amount is consumed by marine life. As on land, marine animals use oxygen to breathe, and both plants and animals use oxygen for cellular respiration. Oxygen is also consumed when dead plants and animals decay in the ocean. This is particularly problematic when algal blooms die and the decomposition process uses oxygen faster than it can be replenished. This can create areas of extremely low oxygen concentrations (hypoxia), often called dead zones, because the oxygen levels are too low to support most marine life. Denise MacDonald-Kiernan 唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀Ⰰ 䰀漀漀猀攀 䌀漀瘀攀爀猀Ⰰ 䘀愀戀爀椀挀猀Ⰰ 䌀甀猀栀椀漀渀猀 刀攀昀椀氀氀攀搀 䘀爀攀攀 䔀猀琀椀洀愀琀攀猀 吀栀攀 圀漀爀欀猀栀漀瀀Ⰰ 䴀漀渀礀戀甀椀攀Ⰰ 䌀漀爀猀漀挀欀⸀ 䐀䜀㜀 ㌀䐀夀 眀眀眀⸀䠀愀爀爀椀猀ⴀ唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀 ㄀㘀㐀㐀 㐀㐀 㔀㈀㤀 Glenkens Gazette page 20 Dalry School Basketball Team Dalry Secondary School basketball team was thrilled with the level of community support they received. The team would like to thank Natural Power Consultants Ltd, the Galloway Glens Scheme and Terry from Lion Removals for their offers of funding. Members are very excited about choosing their kits and hopefully in the next edition of the Gazette they will have arrived and there will be a photo of the team. Above right is a table showing the Junior League positions - the letters along the top stand for Games Played, Wins, Losses, Points (for wins), Points For (scored in game), Points Against (scored in game) and Points Difference (between points scored and conceded in game). Liam Fleming, PE Teacher & Coach Experimenting with Light and Colour Children in Primary 5-7 at Kells Primary School took part in a STEM workshop in which they had a great time investigating light and colour. The children experimented with red, blue and yellow torches. They enjoyed creating secret messages using colour and were challenged to use several Sewing for Fun Students from Dalry Secondary have been learning new skills and developing their fine motor skills. Sewing has taught them about patience in a subtle but very effective way. Their new skills can also be put to use to help them mend clothes and become more conscious consumers in the future. They can also put their new skills to use to create unique handmade gifts. Everyone becomes a winner as sewing encourages mindfulness and reduces stress and anxiety. Pictured are some of the creative uses pupils turned their new sewing skills to. mirrors to bounce light in six different directions. Margaret Heuchan Glenkens Gazette page 21 New Faces at Glenkens Youth Group LING are pleased to welcome Sarah Kirk as our new Youth Activity and Development Worker, and Ben Wells as Youth Work Assistant for our Glenkens Youth sessions and trips. Sarah takes over from Olivia Donald, who is heading off to have her first baby – Olivia’s done a fantastic job establishing a popular weekly youth meet-up session in the Glenkens for young people aged 11 and over, and delivered a great range of free trips and activities during sessions and in the holidays. The Glenkens Youth posts are funded until May this year by Blackcraig Windfarm Community Fund administered by Glenkens and District Trust and Foundation Scotland, with additional funding from the D&G Council Stewartry Area Committee. Glenkens Youth started in response to needs identified by Glenkens young people and our aim is to see it develop into an independent, long-term youth service for our area – if you’d like to be involved, let us know! Mary, Chair, Local Initiatives in New Galloway (youthwork.ling@gmail.com) CatStrand Youth Players' Panto Success "A triumph!’ ‘Exceptionally good, better than most professional pantos." "What a night, the best one yet!" "The cast were all great and the show was hilarious." "Fantastic fun, can’t wait for 2023!" These were just some of the comments written by audience members as they left the latest CatStrand panto, Sinbad Sails Again by Paul Reakes. The show played to three packed houses in December and was thoroughly enjoyed by the audiences and the cast alike. The brand new script by our favourite panto author was definitely one of his best yet and the cast had great fun rehearsing it from September onwards. Now firmly established as a mainstay of the CatStrand arts programme, this was the twelfth annual panto and its popularity was underlined by the fact that tickets were largely sold out several weeks beforehand. The story started one year after Aladdin’s marriage to Princess Jasmine but everything wasn’t quite turning out to be "happy ever after," particularly after a disguised Captain Crossbones and his henchmen steal the magic lamp! Aladdin recruits Sinbad the Sailor to chase down the pirates and retrieve the lamp and the adventure begins! A superb rendition of A Whole New World by Aladdin (Fiona Edgar) and Jasmine (Ella Campbell) provided a perfect opening to the show and set the scene for what was still to come. Captain Crossbones (James Wallace) and his sidekicks Sam (Naomi McCreath) and the hapless Percy (Stanley Harfield) were subjected to lots of boos as they carried out their skullduggery but also provided lots of comedy too, not least when Crossbones led a hilarious and energetic performance of the song Jump. Megan Oliver played Sinbad with great aplomb and ably helped by Zara (Lorne Johnston) and Molly the Monkey, cutely played by Rosie Spernagel, they tracked the baddies down to a remote desert island. With the magic lamp now back in the possession of the evil Abanazar (Laura Edington), they managed to save the day and retrieve it with the assistance of islander Aloa (Sanna Gilbert) and the local knowledge of a friendly Gorilla (Izak Entwhistle). Once they were able to finally rub the lamp and summon the Genie (also played in fine style by Izak Entwhistle), everything could be sorted out and once again everyone would live happily ever after! Of course, a panto wouldn’t be a panto without a dame, as the song says "there is nothing like a dame" and there certainly is nothing like a dame played by Ruby Harfield! She really made Semolina Sinbad larger than life and together with her son Ali Sinbad (Dante Newbery) they led the comedy scenes with great skill to the constant delight of the audience. Their hilarious take on I Want to Break Free, with Ali in the Freddie Mercury role will live long in the memory. A production such as this takes a huge amount of work behind the scenes too and the new Behind the Scenes Crew, led by Cat Campbell, worked hard for several months making props and scenery and their clever creations definitely helped to set the various scenes throughout, none more so than the giant Sea Serpent’s head which appeared in a cloud of smoke to herald the end of Act One! The songs, music and sound effects are always a major part of any panto and this year more than ever and that was all down to the skill of Simon Davidson as Musical Director. The costumes are a key component too and Sue Lindsay worked hard to pull together the wardrobe of over 30 costumes for the show. The show was directed by Brian Edgar who praised the cast for their skill and commitment and thanked everyone for their hard work in bringing the show to the stage and the audiences for their incredible support once again. The CatStrand Players now move on to the Festival Season and hope to emulate the unprecedented success of last year when we took two plays to the Western Finals with the Youth entry making it all the way to the Scottish Final. This year we have three plays in rehearsal for the festival, two in the Youth Section and one in the Open Festival. The youth plays are – Rabbit by David Foxton (directed by Cat Campbell) and Tell Me Another Story, Sing Me a Song by Jean Lenox Toddie (directed by James Wallace) and the Open entry is Feeding the Ducks by Michael Park (directed by Brian Edgar). The plays will be staged at the Stewartry District Festival at The Fullarton in Castle Douglas over the weekend of 2-4 March and then will be staged at CatStrand on Friday 10 March. Glenkens Gazette page 22 Fun With the Cub Scouts The Glenkens Scout Group has been delighted to receive a cheque for £320 as a donation from the Carsphairn Community Trust's Christmas Fayre. Steve Cowley, treasurer of the Trust, popped into our Pack meeting on a very cold night to give us the cheque. Carsphairn hall was beautifully decorated, and the place was humming. Stalls laden with gift ideas. A real feeling of community spirit. Thank you again for your kindness. The Cub Scouts visited the CatStrand Youth Players panto Sinbad Sails Again (see page 21). Absolutely fantastic and thoroughly enjoyed by all. Well done to everyone involved! with sgraffito (a technique of cutting/scraping through the thin layer if white slip into which the clay has been dipped to reveal the darker clay behind) designs which were fired and brought back in time for them to give as Christmas gifts (pictured). Heather & Hannah At the end of November the Cubs decorated clay tiles Glenkens Producers' Market WRIGHTS STORE & POST OFFICE DALRY DALRY DALRY SWEET TREAT SATURDAY DALRY INFORMATION FRESH CREAM CAKES AVAILABLE TO ORDER OPENING HOURS MONDAY – FRIDAY 7.30am – 5.30pm SATURDAY 8.30am – 5pm SUNDAY 8.30am – 3pm LOCAL SUPPLIERS DALMELLINGTON COUNTRY BUTCHERS 2nd Saturday Monthly Dalry Town Hall, 10am-1pm - 11th February & 11th March ...fresh vegetables, baked goods, preserves, bread, fresh meat, smoked products, cheese, artisan cider, chocolates, handmade crafts, gift cards, plants... * Save Fuel - Shop Local * UPPER DULLARG EGGS MITCHELLS FRUIT & VEG SWEETCAKES BAKERY GLENKENS HONEY COMPANY CREAM O GALLOWAY GALLOWAY LODGE PRESERVES IRVINGS BAKERY SCOTTISH GALLOWAY PASTA GLENKENS HONEY COMPANY Want to know what’s going on? Then visit www.dalrytownhall.co.uk POP IN FOR A CHAT AND A BROWSE Glenkens Gazette page 23 Boosting biodiversity, businesses and community benefits Protecting habitats and improving biodiversity • Extensive habitat improvement measures – net gain for biodiversity • New native broadleaf trees to be planted and 145ha heathland restored • Peatland restoration – enough to cover 190 football pitches • Carbon emission saving of around 4 million tonnes Enhanced outdoor access and protecting heritage • 15km of new sign-posted, accessible tracks through restored habitats • Visitor sign-posting and additional pathways created • Improved access to and understanding of important WW2 crash site and other features of historical interest A major green investment in local communities • Building on our approach at South Kyle Wind Farm, maximising local jobs and supplier opportunities • New apprenticeships to be created • Estimated £7million boost to local economy • Up to £16million community benefits package with flexible, community-led approach The Planning Application for Quantans Hill Wind Farm is being submitted to the Scottish Government’s Energy Consents Unit imminently. To view and respond to the Planning Application please visit www.energyconsents.scot where you will also find confirmation of the period in which responses may be submitted (likely to be until late March).* You can also find out more about Vattenfall’s proposals at: www.vattenfall.co.uk/quantanshill Data from Quantans Hill Environmental Impact Assessment Report (2022), Natural Power et al; and Vattenfall. Images top & bottom from Lee Williams for Vattenfall’s Pen Y Cymoedd Wind Farm in South Wales. *Details correct at time of going to print 19.01.2023 Advertisement With 14 turbines, Quantans Hill Wind Farm will add around 90MW to Dumfries and Galloway’s homegrown electricity capacity, as well as battery storage. As a Vattenfall project, this major investment has also been designed to deliver tangible economic, biodiversity and community benefits to the local area around Carsphairn and across South West Scotland. The planning application identifies potential for: Glenkens Gazette page 24 Photo of the Issue ...Sponsored by the Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Co... This issue’s winner is Robin Hood with a view over Loch Ken taken from his garden. Robin wins £10 voucher redeemable at the new Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Co premises at the Old School on Brooke St, Dumfries. Company owner and competition judge, Hannah Gould, said: "We are very excited to now have a cafe in Dumfries! We're open Tuesday till Saturday from 11am to 5pm with 7pm closing on Thursdays and Fridays. We serve all homemade goodies - traybakes, brownies, salads, burgers and of course mac 'n' cheese. Every Thursday we do all-you-can-eat mac 'n' cheese too. We are based in the Old School with lots of other lovely, independent small businesses. So come see us!" To enter you can send in any photograph taken in the Glenkens to glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk From the Bookroom Glenkens Gazette In 'From the Bookroom' Glenkensbased author, Robin Yassin-Kassab, will take readers through some of his favourite books. Robin is author of the novel The Road From Damascus and co-author of Burning Country: Syrians in Revolution and War. I pretended to read James Joyce’s Ulysses when I was a student. I know this from my old copy of the book, in which one-word notes qualified by question marks (like ‘Homeric parallel?’), in my youthful, spidery handwriting, are placed seemingly randomly against the text. But I didn’t really read this famously difficult book, not in full. I didn’t have time. And most of us will never have time, because now we are attuned to immediate gratification, addicted to the dopamine hit. Our thoughts come more rapidly than ever, but are reduced in range as a result. “Ulysses” was written before sound bites and tweets, and reading it is the task at least of a slow Galloway springtime. It’s one of the rare books you could actually survive on if shipwrecked on a desert island. It refers to, mimics, satirizes, or converses page 25 with so many other texts that it feels like the Ur-text or Originary Book from which all others proceed. Almost all the tools and tricks of the contemporary novel were worked out first here. But where most novels will exploit one unusual method, “Ulysses” uses many. Each chapter is a different kind of experiment; each therefore stands in itself as a novel – in the literal sense of ‘novelty’ and ‘innovation’. This is what makes the book difficult. The reader can’t relax for a moment. Just when he thinks he’s worked out what the book is doing, it decides to do something else. It’s a babbling fool of a book. It is literary LSD, very seriously mind-expanding. But there is method in its madness. There’s a plot, and relatable characters. Believe it or not, there’s a great sense of humour too. All this is accessible to most people if they take the time, and follow the following advice: First, don’t try so hard to understand. Which is certainly easier said than done. We’ve been trained since school to extract information from text, to reduce each paragraph into a summary as we go. If we can’t easily do this, we feel lost. But think of this analogy. In a bar you hear bits of several nearby conversations as well as the conversation you and your friends are having, and you hear the voice in your head, the inner commentary, judging, regretting, remembering, worrying. The words you hear spark associations with other words. There’s the song playing on the stereo, plus the song now playing in your head that it reminds you of. You don’t need to understand everything to fully experience and enjoy this scene. Second, read the text aloud. Listen to it. Enjoy its music. We don’t refuse to listen to jazz because we can’t follow the storyline. Likewise, we don’t give up on Picasso or Rembrandt because we’re not sure of their positions on Irish politics. Third, laugh. This often follows naturally from reading it aloud. If you heed these pointers you’ll eventually find that, as when learning a language, at a certain point it becomes much easier. Next you’ll be grappling with “Finnegans Wake”… Robin Yassin-Kassab Gordon McAdam Plumbing & Heating 22 Kirkland Street St John’s Town of Dalry 01644 430 393 07834 321 789 Glenkens Gazette page 26 Kenmure Castle: Witness to Galloway's History Kenmure Castle, the most famous of the Glenkens castles, stands just south of New Galloway and has been touched by much of Scottish history. It was a Balliol stronghold in the wars of independence and was a refuge for Mary Queen of Scots on her flight from Scotland and was sacked by her enemies. It was sacked again by Cromwell for supporting the Royal cause and after the Jacobite uprising the 6th Viscount Kenmure was beheaded in the Tower of London for backing the rebels. Robert Burns predictably was a guest - on his way to Kirkcudbright. On Sunday 26 February The Glenkens Story local history group will present an afternoon of talks at the CatStrand on the castle and the people in its history. Janet Brennan-Ingils, castle historian and author, restorer of Barholm Castle and former chair of the Scottish Castles Association, will speak on the history of Kenmure. For much of its history the castle has been held by the Gordon family. Major General (retd) James Gordon, the present owner, will Kenmure Castle in the 18th century by give a personal Francis Grose, died 1790 account of the Gordon family's will discuss the origin of the name close links to the castle’s eventful history. ‘Kenmure’ which looks straightforward Completing the afternoon’s programme, the muir of the Ken - but all may not be local place names expert Michael Ansell as it seems. Air Crashes Near the Glenkens Regular readers of the Gazette will know that I wrote a series of articles* on Air Crashes in the Glenkens. As these were well received, I thought readers might be interested in a few nearby air crashes, mostly in the Stewartry. I will begin with one of the saddest tales, from Dundrennan. On 18 July 1944 a Bristol Beaufighter (serial JL 893) crashed on a house in the village killing the crew of two; Sgt Pilot E M Young and Navigator Flight Sergeant H A Wiles. Also killed were four of the Hamilton family in the house; parents James and Georgina along with children Henry and Agnes. The sole survivor was daughter Georgina (known as Ina) who was badly injured. There are stories of the sound of the aircraft circling, presumably looking for somewhere to land, before the crash. Until 2010, there was no memorial to this tragedy when one was at last unveiled beside the parish church. Daughter Ina attended the unveiling on the 66th anniversary of the tragedy. In the photograph, Ina (then Wood) is the lady in the blue jacket, the lady beside her is Jean Brown who was the driving force behind getting the memorial erected (see photo). Near Loch Skerrow or, more accurately, in the woodland to the West of the site of the Little Water of Fleet Viaduct, stands a crude mortared cairn surrounded by twisted remnants of an air crash. I had heard rumours of the crash site but very little was known. In August 2008, together with Bob Peace, a fellow member of Galloway Mountain Rescue Team, we visited the site to photograph it and record the exact position. Research over several months, assisted by members of Dumfries & Galloway Aviation Museum, determined that this was the site of a crash of an RAF Typhoon serial JR 439 on 18 March 1944. Canadian Pilot Kenneth Osborne Mitchell of 440 Squadron was killed in the crash at just twenty-two years of age and he is buried in Ayr cemetery. At the time, 440 Squadron were based at Prestwick and in training prior to moving down to Kent to combat the V1 flying bombs. The story of the crash site is that it was only discovered when local workers were called to investigate a power outage in the area caused by the aircraft crashing into cables; and the story of the cairn is that the pilot’s parents had requested some form of memorial at the crash site. Efforts to contact the family in 2008/09 were unsuccessful. It should be noted that, in 2008, there was nothing at the site to show what had happened there, or when; just the cairn and wreckage. I decided that the memorial should remain anonymous no longer and, in fine weather on 18 March 2009 (the 65th anniversary of the crash), with a small group, I revisited the cairn and placed a plaque on it giving details of the crash and the pilot who died. Present on the day were members from the Dumfries & Galloway Aviation Museum and my late wife, Betty. The plaque also bears the phrase ‘until the day break, and shadows flee away’ which is the same as his parents chose to have inscribed on his gravestone (bottom right photo). Please note that removal of any item from a military crash site would be a criminal offence. To be continued… Paul Goodwin * Issues 89, 95, 100 and 112 Glenkens Gazette page 27 GLENKENS PLACE NAMES In commemoration of the near completion of John Paterson’s splendid new house at Barskeoch, I intend to look at some placenames recorded on the Plan of the Enclosures of Earlstoun and Barskeoch belonging to John Newal Esq. area would seem to be a spur off what is now Waterside Hill. This is shown as Knockengig which is possibly for Gaelic Cnoc na Dìge - ‘Hill of the ditch’. However it may be that Knockengig was actually the earlier name for the Fairy Knowe. There is a Gaelic word digh, one meaning of which is ‘fairy knowe’ so Cnoc na Dighe - ‘hill of the fairy mound’ - is a possibility. The Gregg map shows that there was a pool in the River Ken at the foot of the Fairy Knowe called the Dalreoch Pool. This is now subsumed under the hydro loch but it was in the river just north of where the Earlstoun Burn used to enter the River Ken. In pre-hydro days the area to the north of the Earlstoun Burn and to the east of the Ken was shown on the Ordnance Survey map of 1853 as being formed of three large flat enclosures, evidently some of the best land on the estate. Going by the name of the contiguous pool (Dalreoch), this flat riverside area was called in Gaelic An Dail Riabhach - ‘The Brindled Holm’. It is now completely under the waters of Earlstoun Loch. valley’. This is the same word as in County Cavan, Ireland. Barskeoch itself is one of two bàrr place-names on the property of Mr Newal. Bàrr means ‘the top of anything’ often applied to a minor hill-top of no great elevation, especially in Galloway and Argyll. In the case of Barskeoch the derivation will be Gaelic Am Bàrr Sgìtheach - ‘the hawthorn hill’. The other bàrr name is shown on the map as Barchuck. This is shown on the OS 1st edition 6’’ map of 1853 as Barchock. This is an interesting placename and probably represents Gaelic Bàrr Seabhaige ‘hawk hill-top’, perhaps (according to Dwelly’s Dictionary) specifically referring to the Peregrine This map was drawn by James Gregg Falcon. The Gaelic word seabhag is in 1779 and is available on the National in fact a borrowing into Gaelic of the Library of Scotland website. English word ‘hawk’. This plan has been discussed several Between Barchuck and the River Ken times previously in seminars organised is marked as the Pulharrow Park on by the Dumfries Archival Mapping Gregg’s plan. This is from the Polharrow Project (DAMP). It is a remarkable Burn which joins the Ken close to the map in its detail, showing a well laid north end of the park. Polharrow is out estate, already largely enclosed probably to be derived from Gaelic Poll and improved. Previous na h-Airbhe - ‘burn of the discussions have tended boundary or wall’ - perhaps to focus on the details of referring to the Deil’s Dyke the estate layout of parks which I suggest formed the and woodlands (a fair bit of eastern boundary of the royal which is now of course under hunting Forest of Buchan. Earlstoun Loch). Therefore There is a pool in the Ken I want to focus on some where it runs along the of the unremarked Gaelic Pulharrrow Park. This is origin place-names on the marked on Gregg’s plan as plan to consider what the The Lin. Linne is the Gaelic names meant and where they word for a pool so this are located in the modern could have been a Gaelic landscape. coining however the word To understand the layout of was borrowed into Scots so the plan one has to remember it may have been named in that the main road from Dalry that language. In Scots the to Ayr passed well to the meaning could sometimes be west of the existing A713. It a pool or the waterfall above is still clearly visible on the a pool. The hillock on the east First Edition Ordnance Survey side of the river at The Lin The south part of Gregg’s 1769 plan of Earlstoun 6’’ to the mile map published was called Lin Know by Gregg & Barskeoch showing Knockengig and Tarhastan. in 1853 and although it is and Craig Linn on the OS map less clear on aerial survey of 1853. Lin Know is Scots photography it can still be whereas Craig Lin could be An Dail Riabhach is one of several followed. Gaelic Creag na Linne - ‘rock of the pool’ Gaelic dail ‘holm’ names in the - which describes it exactly. Starting at the south, the old road to Glenkens, from south to north Ayr can be picked up where it leaves the To finish it is interesting to note a Dalarran, Dalry, Dalreoch, Dalbonniton, modern A762 just south of Craiggubble new place-name has been created near Daltallochan, Dalshangan and Wood. This wood is so named from a the north part of Gregg’s estate plan Dalquhairn. conspicuous rock face there and stands when a new house was recently built Breoch Park was a large wooded for Gaelic Creag na gCapall - ‘crag of the on part of the lands of Barskeoch Farm. enclosure on the east side of the River horses’. This is Inverharrow, a pleasing name Ken opposite Barskeoch farmhouse. in character with the place- names Moving north two hills are marked on Again it is now under-water. The name surrounding it and conveying the correct Gregg’s plan just south of the lands of most likely derives from Gaelic Am meaning (all be it in anglicised spelling) Earlstoun and Barskeoch. One is named Bruach - ‘bank of a river’ for its location: Inbhir na h-Airbhe - ‘the as Terhastan and this seems to be mouth of the (poll) Harrow’. West of Barskeoch was what used what is now known locally as The Fairy to be a separate farm of Cavan. This Knowe. Terhastan would appear to be Perhaps John’s new house should is situated between Barskeoch and Gaelic Tòrr Ùisdein, for ‘Wee Hughie’s be called Am Bàrr Sgìtheach? Just a Hannaston. This will be derived from hill’. thought... Michael Ansell Gaelic cabhan - ‘a hollow, cavity, shallow The other hill marked in the same Glenkens Gazette page 28 WINDY STANDARD REPOWERING PLANS SUBMITTED Advertisement Fred. Olsen Renewables has applied to the Scottish Government for permission to repower Windy Standard Wind Farm, north east of Carsphairn. The plans would see the removal of 36 turbines and eight wind turbines up to 200m to tip erected in their place. We would like to thank everyone that has taken part in the public consultation and encourage them to visit the website www. windystandardwindfarm.co.uk to view the application documents and learn more about how to have their say. Windy Standard Wind Farm was one of the first to be built in Scotland in the 1990s. We are committed to continuing this legacy and to ensuring that the project delivers for the economy and for communities locally – as well as helping to address wider issues such as wind turbine blade recycling. The repowering proposals bring forward a raft of opportunities, including: • Delivering over £7m in community benefit funding • Supporting students at Dumfries and Galloway College Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP Solicitors and Estate Agents Dumfries & Galloway 01556 503744 www.ggblaw.co.uk All legal advice Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie Kirkcudbright and Dumfries • Re-using the turbine blades locally - creating bus shelters, bike racks or even a playpark! Anyone with questions on the plans is encouraged to get in touch with the team by emailing communities@ fredolsen.com or calling 07435 763 900. Glenkens Gazette page 29 Connecting in Communities February 2023/ March 2023 Activity Programme Pudding Fan Club FREE EVENT Monday 13th Feb Honey Valentine | 6.30pm - 8.30pm Monday 27th March Ukraine Easter Bread | 6.30pm - 8.30pm CatStrand Café Contact & booking details see below Photography in Focus Tuesday 7th & 21st Feb / 14th & 28th March 10am -12pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan plus ‘out in the field’ Contact: Ian Biggar: ianbiggar@btinternet.com 07799 372052 Visit:https://gcat.scot Click on CiC Activity Programme Glenkens & District Community Drama Group FREE EVENT Tuesdays - February 7th / February 21st / 7th March / 21st March | 7pm - 9pm The CatStrand, New Galloway 7th March’s venue The Smiddy Balmaclellan Family Drama Group on Sunday 26th February / 26th March 2pm-3.30pm at The Smiddy Balmaclellan Contact & booking details see below Menopause Really Matters Monday 13th Feb & 13th March | 7pm - 8pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan. Donations to ‘The Menopause Charity.org’ Contact: Lesley Atkins: lesley@thenourishingspace.co.uk 07587 122151 Visit https://gcat.scot Click on CiC Activity Programme Art For Wellbeing Every Tuesdays Dalry Town Hall, Kirkpatrick Durham Village Hall Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn Contact for dates times booking details see below Glenkens Ukes (Ukuele Workshops) Every Wednesday | 6.30pm-8pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan - £3.00 Contact: Brian Jones - briantjjones@gmail.com 07760 884113 Visit https://gcat.scot Click on CiC Activity Programme Café & Bar Open Night Saturday25th March | 7pm - 9pm Bar and Café Open for drinks and Light Snacks BRING FRIENDS MEET FRIENDS, MAKE FRIENDS Contact & booking details see below ARTistry - Life Drawing Classes Thursdays |10am-12.30pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan - £7.50 Contact & booking details: Leto Seferiades letosef@gmail.com 07763 235888 Visit https://gcat.scot Click on CiC Activity Programme Boccia Club Indoor Boules FREE EVENT Wednesday 8th Feb & 8th March | 2 pm-3pm Catstrand FREE Contact & booking details see below Rat Pack Tea Dance Friday 17th February | 7.30pm-8.30pm Dalry - £3.50 Friday 31st March | 7.30pm – 8.30pm Catstrand - £3.50 Contact & booking details see below Glenkens Pub Quiz Nights Sunday 26th Feb | 7.30pm The Clachan Inn Dalry Thursday 23rd March | 7.30pm The Ken Bridge Hotel Teams of 4/6 - £1 per person: Takings go to charity Contact & booking details see below The CiC Games Night FREE EVENT Friday Feb 24th, March 24th | 7pm-9pm The CatStrand, New Galloway Indoor boules, & board games Bar Open Contact & booking details see below Spanish Dance Classes FREE EVENT Saturday 25th March | 10.30am -11.30am 10.30am - 11.30am CatStrand, New Galloway Contact & booking details see below Breeze Cycle Rides for Females FREE EVENT Saturday 25th March | Time TBC Meet at St John’s Town of Dalry Car Park Registration essential on www.letsride.co.uk Contact & booking details see below No Logo Productions Presents: Make-Up SAFE SPACE CAFÉ Saturday 25th February 7pm CatStrand, New Galloway, Bar Open Contact & booking details see below All bookings through email: jo@catstrand.com or call 01644 420374 or Visit https://gcat.scot Click on CiC Activity Programme unless otherwise specified If you have any ideas of what activities you would like to see happening in your community, please do get in touch and we will do our best to make them happen! Contact jo@catstrand.com Glenkens Gazette page 30 Dalry's Entry for the Turner Prize...? (to be sung to the tune of Away in a Manger) In Midtown's Location, At the top of Dalry, There's an art installation, That catches the eye. It started as a pothole, Then workmen in turn, Broke through to the culvert, That channels the burn. The buses edge round it, The lorries squeeze past, There's a fence that surrounds it, And the hole's now quite vast. So D&G Council, Send men every day, Who nod their heads sagely, Then go on their way. I view it each morning, Outside my front door, I don't think they'll fix it, Till May '24. Now people in aircraft, Look down from the sky, At our art installation, Down here in Dalry. by Sue Wiseman Glass Recycling Points • Balmaclellan Stores, Balmaclellan • Memorial Hall, St Michael's Road, Crossmichael • Kirkland Street, St John's Town of Dalry • New Galloway, Carson's Knowe Car Park • St David Street, Kirkpatrick Durham ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) CROSSMICHAEL THERAPY CENTRE - Your Health is Important - Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is probably best known for its treatment of pain. However, they can be used to treat a broader variety of conditions, from achy joints to anxiety, skin troubles to insomnia, acupuncture could help change the way you manage some of life’s health challenges. Matthew Pajo has been studying and practising Chinese medicine for over 25 years and has attained a Bachelor Health Science and Master Applied Science in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. As a highly skilled and trusted clinician, Matthew uses safe, effective, and natural treatments that can bring relief from acute and chronic conditions. Matthew is a member of the British Acupuncture Federation and the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians. To make an appointment call 07786 079 845 or email info@matthewpajo.co.uk For more information visit www.matthewpajo.co.uk Psychological Therapy Amber Dunlop-Pajo has spent over 20 years working as a psychologist and has attained a Bachelor Psychology (Hons) and Master Psychology (Health) and is a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society. Amber specialises in Women’s Health as well as depression, stress, anxiety and has a focus on health psychology. SMALL: Contact Amber on 07389 713 106 or info@gallowaycounselling.co.uk For more information visit www.gallowaycounselling.co.uk 1/4 PAGE: Crossmichael Therapy Centre, The Old School, Crossmichael, DG7 3AP 6cm x 6cm, £50 9cm w x 13cm h, £108 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £200 FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £332 Please get in touch further details including small business/ charity rates and series discounts. Email glenkensgazette@ hotmail.co.uk or call/ WhatsApp 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 334 0905 24 THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS General Medical & Dispensing Services FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY The Surgery High Street New Galloway Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm Sat 2-2.30 pm Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm  01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS  FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 Glenkens Gazette The Community Kindness Cupboard outside Dalry Library has home baking in every Thursday. page 31 WHERE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB LISTINGS Dumfries & Galloway! What's Going on @DGWGO on Facebook; What's Going On Glenkens @WGOGlenkens on Facebook; Glenkens Gazette @GlenkensNews on Facebook – once on the page for any of these, use the search function to look for jobs. The Glenkens' largest employer, Natural Power Consultants Ltd, also have a jobs page - www.naturalpower.com/uk/careers KEY GLENKENS CONTACTS LOCAL DOCTORS’ SURGERY Glenkens Medical Practice - 01644 420 234 COMMUNITY CONTACTS • Balmaclellan: Martin Warnock 07939 261 391 • Carsphairn: Liz Holmes - 07718 358 160 • Corsock: Julie Garton - 07769 647 702 • Kirkpatrick Durham: Heather 07551 639 629 • Crossmichael: Richard Middleton - 01556 670 691 • Dalry: Graham West - 01644 430 503 • New Galloway: 07741 656 601 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 FOOD DELIVERIES • Galloway Foodbank - 07730 788 335 • Glenkens Food Hub - www. openfoodnetwork.org.uk/ glenkens-food-hub/shop • Ballards Butchers - 01556 502502 (they also deliver groceries) • Grierson’s Butchers: 01556 502 637 • Henderson’s Butchers: 01556 502 654 • Mitchell’s Greengrocers: 01556 502 077 • Fleet Fish: call 07966 103 912 to find out about Glenkens delivery days • Roan’s Dairy - 01556 620 374 LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Glenkens Community Shop: Contact Liz Lewis on 07530 804 217 or drop by the shop on Main Street, Dalry Glenkens Scout Group: Contact Heather McIntosh on 01644 420 375 Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact newgallowaytownhall@gmail.com Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail. com or 01644 430 521 Dalry Town Hall: Contact Lesley Blissett at lesleyblissett52@gmail.com Glenkens Community Centre: Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact ngce5000@gmail.com or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins at julia.higgins55@outlook.com CatStrand: Contact Fiona Limbrey at fiona@ catstrand.com or 01644 420 374 or pop in to the CatStrand Schools: Visit the school office or call Dalry Primary on 01644 430 105 (for Nursery/ELC too), Dalry Secondary on 01644 430 259 or Kells on 01644 420 340 Carsphairn Heritage Initiative: Contact Karen Hall at carsphairnhi@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie at mcnabb. laurie@dumgal.gov.uk If you would like to add your community organisation to this list please get in touch with the Gazette - contact details are on the back page. CHURCH TIMES CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sunday Services Balmaclellan: 11am - 5 Feb, 5 Mar Carsphairn: 11am - 12 Feb, 12 Mar Kells: 11am - 19 Feb, 19 Mar Dalry: 11am - 26 Feb, 26 Mar For further information email Rev Mark Smith at mark.smith@churchofscotland.org.uk SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: St Margaret's Church, Kenbridge Road, New Galloway, DG7 3RP Sundays: 10.30am Sung Eucharist, followed by refreshments Visitors welcome - for information, including directions, please see visit www.stmargaretsnewgalloway.org or call our vestry secretary, Christine Rankin, on 01644 420 259. Glenkens Gazette page 32 GALLOWAY COMMUNITY TRANSPORT www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org email gct@catstrand.com phone 01644 420374 mobile 07841 512449 February 2023 - March 2023 Regular Services GK2 Glenkens-Castle Douglas (Tesco) Wednesday Evenings (Registered Route) Out Return 19:00 Dalry (Underhill) 21:15 19:05 New Galloway 21:10 19:15 Mossdale 21:00 19:25 Laurieston 20:50 19:30 Townhead of Greenlaw 20:47 19:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 20:37 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:35 Booking not required Glenkens to Newton Stewart Fortnightly - Tuesday mornings Outward Pickups: Dalry (Underhill) 09:30 New Galloway (Town Hall) 09:35 CatStrand) 09:37 To Aldi Return Pickup Newton Stewart (Aldi Car Park) 11:30 Return fare £3.50 FREE BIKE WORKSHOPS IN FEBRUARY FOR ADULT LEARNERS BIKE FAMILIARISATION, SHORT LOCAL JOURNEYS AND CONFIDENCE BUILDING WORKSHOPS LEVEL 1: SATURDAY 11th FEBRUARY 10:00-11:00 LEVEL 2: SATURDAY 18th FEBRUARY 10:00-11:30 LEVEL 3: SATURDAY 25th FEBRUARY 10:00-11:30 ALL SESSIONS WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE CAR PARK IN NEW GALLOWAY FREE! ADVANCE BOOKING AND REGISTRATION IS ESSENTIAL. EMAIL: JON@CATSTRAND.COM OR CALL 07841 512449 IN PARTNERSHIP WITH GALLOWAY COMMUNITY TRANSPORT AND CYCLING UK Advance booking required. Member Hire GCT has 16-, 15-, and 8-seater minibuses and a fully wheelchair accessible electric car available for hire by community organisations. For information about membership and terms and conditions of hire see the GCT website or phone 07841 512449. Glenkens eBike Club If you are a local Glenkens resident and are interested in joining the Glenkens eBike Club please see our webpage: https://www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org/ebikes phone 07841 512449 or email jon@catstrand.com Drivers Needed Galloway Community Transport needs your help to provide a wide range of community transport services across the Stewartry and beyond. MINIBUS DRIVING Minibus drivers with D1 (101 or by test) are needed to do volunteer and paid driving for our wide range of member community groups. PATIENT TRANSPORT We also urgently need drivers with their own cars for our patient transport service. Our volunteer patient transport drivers receive a generous mileage reimbursement and the satisfaction of providing a vital service to vulnerable people in our communities. Interested? Email gct@catstrand.com or phone 07841 512449 We would like to thank Glen Murray, who has now retired from his role of GCT Manager, for all his hard work over the last several years, and wish him all the best in his retirement! GCT is now managed by Jon Betts, with support from the GCT Administrator, Sue McMinn Glenkens Gazette page 33 Keeping Our Homes Secure A local resident has been in touch to voice concern about the first burglary in Dalry for some time. In December a house in Dalry was broken into. The burglars went in through the back, breaking the glass conservatory doors and then glass patio doors. It happened around 5pm. The resident thinks they must have disturbed the burglars. They had gone through drawers in the bedroom but nothing was missing. "If you have a predictable routine, try to vary this so you don’t become vulnerable," said the resident. "Perhaps just check in on your neighbours, and keep an eye on their homes and if there is any strange activity. I just wanted to let villagers know to be vigilant over winter, ensuring curtains are closed when lights are on, etc." Community Police Constable, Chloe Ellis, said: "Thankfully house break-ins are very uncommon in this area. It is of note that the two house break-ins we had within the Stewartry of late did not occur through the night. As such, it is important that everyone is vigilant for any suspicious or unknown vehicle or persons in the area, day or night." To find tips on keeping your home secure visit www. scotland.police.uk or, if you have any concerns or questions stop in and chat to Chloe - she's at Dalry Police Station when the police car is parked outside. Alternatively, you can call the Castle Douglas Police Office on 01786 289 070 or 101 for nonemergencies. Glenkens Community Spaces The Glenkens Asset Network - now called Glenkens Community Spaces - held its first meeting in Balmaclellan Village Hall on 23 January, which was a resounding success. The Asset Network arose from the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan, which highlighted how important all our community spaces are. The voluntary committees do a fantastic job of looking after them, and this Network is designed to help them in that work. Becca Nelson, in the new role of Network Facilitator, has one day a week to support them and their priorities over the next two years, thanks to windfarm funding. If you missed the meeting but would like to know more, contact Becca on becca.glenkens.anf@ gmail.com Glenkens Gazette WHAT'S ON page 34 February/March JANUARY Sat 28, Samson Sounds, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sun 29, Clachan Folk Sessions, 5-7pm, The Clachan Inn FEBRUARY See p29 for Feb/Mar CiC events listings 27 Jan-26 Feb, Fantastic Forest Festival, see p12 Wed 1, Dalry Film Club: Elvis (12), 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Fri 3, CatStrand Burns Supper, 7.30pm, CatStrand Mon 6, Glenkens Food Month 2023 Ideas Session, 6pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall, see p4 Tue 7, Dalry Good Neighbours Club: Games Afternoon, 2-4pm, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, see p4 Wed 8, Biosphere Office Plans dropin session, 2pm onwards, Dalry Town Hall, see p10 Wed 8, Forestry & Land Scotland: Castlemaddy Forest Plan dropin session, 2-8pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn, see p14 Thu 9, Ken Words- Glenkens Writer's' Cafe, 7-9pm, CatStrand Thu 9, Glenkens Housing Forum, 7.30pm, The Smiddy, Balmaclellan, see p8 Fri 10, Forestry & Land Scotland: Castlemaddy Forest Plan drop-in session, 2-8pm, Dalry Town Hall, see p14 Sat 11, Glenkens Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 11, GCT Bike Workshop Level 1, see p32 Tue 14, Dalry Good Neighbours Club: Kate Kaye; Memories of Childhood Holidays Spent in Dalry, 2-4pm, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, see p4 Wed 15, Dalry Film Club: Top Gun Maverick (12), 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Fri 17, Fara, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 18, GCT Bike Workshop Level 2, see p32 Tue 21, Dalry Good Neighbours Club: Eddie McGaw; Talk and DVD on his Missions to Give Aid to Kids in Kenya, 2-4pm, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, see p4 Fri 24, Games Night, CatStrand Fri 24 - Sun 26, UpSkills: Filmmakers, 10-5pm, The Smiddy, Balmaclellan Sat 25, GCT Bike Workshop Level 3, see p32 Sat 25, Community Café, 10am1pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 25, NoLogoProductions Presents: Make-Up, 7pm, CatStrand Sun 26, The Glenkens Story - Kenmure Castle: Witness to Galloway's History2-4pm, CatStrand Mon 27, Find Out About Childminding drop-in, 4-6pm, creche facilities available, The Smiddy, Balmaclellan Tue 28, Dalry Good Neighbours Club: Who/What do you think this is? Photo Quiz, 2-4pm, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, see p4 Tue 28, Battle of the Bands closing date for applications, see p16 MARCH Wed 1, Lizabett Russo, 7.30pm, CatStrand Wed 1, Dalry Film Club: Grow Your Own (12), 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Thu 2, ReConnect Festival: The Ants and the Grasshopper + Young Leaders Panel, 7pm, CatStrand Fri 3, ReConnect Festival: All That Breathes + Letters to the Earth Workshop, 7pm, CatStrand Sat 4, ReConnect Festival: ‘Reimagining Landscapes’ Painting Workshop, 2-4.30pm, CatStrand Sat 4, ReConnect Festival: Gather + Discussion with Propagate, 7pm, CatStrand Sat 5, ReConnect Festival: Bundle Dyeing and Hapa-Zome, 10-1pm, CatStrand Cafe Sun 5, ReConnect Festival: Open Mic Night, 7.30pm, CatStrand Tue 7, Hannah Rarity, 7.30pm, CatStrand Thu 9, Ken Words- Glenkens Writer's' Cafe, 7-9pm, CatStrand Sat 11, Glenkens Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall Wed 15, Dalry Film Club: Phanton of the Open, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Fri 17, Dark Sky Jazz: Euan Stevenson and Konrad Wiszniewski, 7.30pm, Catstrand Sat 18, Dark Sky Jazz: Nimbus Sextet, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 18, Community Café, 10am1pm, Dalry Town Hall Sun 19, Dark Sky Jazz: Matt Carmichael & Fergus McCreadie, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sun 26, Clachan Folk Sessions, 5-7pm, The Clachan Inn, Dalry APRIL Sat 1, Battle of the Bands, CatStrand, see p16 CATSTRAND CAFÉ & SHOP WINTER HOURS Once again we’d like to thank all of our customers for their support over 2022 - our shop and café had a very busy year and we appreciate the support very much. Please note that we are currently operating our winter hours and are open Tuesday to Saturday (inclusive), 11am4pm. The café will be serving teas, coffees and home baking throughout the day and lunch will be available from 11.30am2.30pm. The café and shop will be closed on Sundays and Mondays with regular classes and events already arranged for those days still going ahead as normal; however, please note that café facilities will generally not be available. We will return to sevenday opening from Sunday 19 March. The CatStrand Team Glenkens Gazette page 35 REGULAR EVENTS Balmaclellan Village Hall: Tuesday Afternoon Teas, 1st Tues each month, to book email warburton.julie@ googlemail.com Glenkens Crafters, Wed 10am-12noon, for info contact julia.higgins55@outlook. com Books in Balmaclellan Community Library, Wed 10.30–12.30 & 5.30-7pm; Fri 5.30-7.30pm; Sat 10.30am -12.30pm (tea & coffee available on Sat). Balmaclellan Blether, 3rd Thu each month, contact warburton.julie@ googlemail.com Glenkens Art Workshop, Thu 2-4pm, contact t_leach1@sky.com Easiobics, Tue & Fri 9.30-10.30pm, contact mlfagan@live.co.uk Circuits, Sat 8-9am, contact John 07544 713 586 Kettelbells, Mon & Tue 6-7pm, contact John 07544 713 586 The Smiddy, Balmaclellan: Digital Art, (age 11+), Tue 4.30-5.30 Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn: Carsphairn SWI, 3rd Thu of the month, 7.30pm,Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn Craft Group, Fri 10am-12noon, includes tea & coffee, Lagwyne Hall, contact carsphairncraftgroup@gmail.com Bairn Banter; family stay & play session, 0-7 years, Sat 10-11.45am, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn CatStrand, New Galloway: Margaret Morris Movement: Health Play (age 5-8), Mon (during term time), 3.45-4.30pm Margaret Morris Movement: Youth Grade (age 8-15), Mon (during term time), 4.30-5.30pm Young Art Ambassadors (age 11+), Mon bi-weekly, 4.30-5.30pm Boccia Club, 2nd Wed of the month, 2-3pm Newton Stewart Bus Service to Tesco, Wednesday evenings Dramarama, (age 6-10), Wed 4.305.15pm Up Skills: 3D Animation, (age 15+), Wed 6-8pm Young Writers Cafe, (age 12+), Wed 6-7.30pm, monthly A Chance to Dance, (age 12+), Thu biweekly, 5.30-7pm VAN: Peer Review Sessions, (age 16+), 7-9pm, monthly Dance Weekenders (age 12+), Sat monthly, 1–4pm Art Explorers, (age under 10), Sat biweekly 10-11am Sat Art Club, (age 10-15), Sat bi-weekly 11.15am-12.30pm Creative Portfolio Development, (Age 15+), Sat monthly CatStrand Youth Players, meet weekly, contact briangm@catstrand.com New Galloway Town Hall: Due to work on the building please confirm activities are running on 07749 249 781 or newgallowaytownhall@gmail.com Men's Monday Morning Coffee, Mon 9.30-11am Glenkens Youth Activity Group, ages 11+, Mon 7-8.30pm, Dalry School Gym Hall, contact youthwork.ling@gmail.com or 07719 708 668 LING Lunches, Tue, 12.30-2pm. currently held at Kitty's, opposite NG Town Hall, currently suspended due to a burst pipe - contact communityinclusion.LING@ gmail.com Sports Evenings, indoor bowling & table tennis, Tues 7-9pm, New Galloway Scout Hut, contact Ray on 01644 420 438 Tai Chi, 10.30-11.30am, suspended, contact gentletaichigroup@gmail.com Zumba, Wed 7-8pm, suspended, contact samantha.rushton@hotmail.co.uk booking essential Martial Arts, Thur 5.30-6.30pm (beginners & tots) & 7-9pm (age 6+), suspended, contact @Facebook KMANews or kmabrian@gmail.com Gentle Yoga, Fri, transferred to Balmaclellan, contact kathyr64@hotmail. co.uk Informal Family Badminton, (net and racquets but no line markings), New Galloway Town Hall, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Dalry Library & Customer Service Centre Main Street, Dalry, Tel: 01644 430 234 or 01556 502 643 Tuesday: For books and other walk-in services: 2-5pm Friday: For NEC Bus Pass and Blue Badge appointments and PCs: 11.30am – 12.30pm; for books and other walk-in services: 1 -4.30pm. Appointments can be booked in the library or on 01387 260 196. Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry: Dalry Good Neighbours Club, Tue, 2-4pm, contact Michelle on 07795 613 148 Schools Out, Wed 3-4.30pm, kids & parents after-school social club, contact Michele on 07940 313445 Clachan Crafters, Thu 2-4pm, contact Sarah on 07500 861 041 Yoga For All, Fr 9.15-10.15am, contact Amy on 07733 111 466 Friendship Group, Sat (excluding Glenkens Producers Market days), 1011.30am, contact Anne on 01644 430 052 Table Tennis/Badminton, available to hire by arrangement, contact Sarah on 07500 861 041 Dalry Library: Random Writers (age 12+), Thu biweekly, 3.45–5pm Glenkens Book Group, last Friday of each month, 2pm, call June to book on 01644 420 361 Dalry Town Hall: Tai Chi, video-led instruction, Mon, 2-3pm, contact lesleyblissett52@gmail.com Dog Training, Tue, 7pm, contact Eric Broadhurst on 07831 590 822 Song Share, 1st Friday each month, 8-11pm, contact anne.chaurand@ btinternet.com Various: Cosy Corner, Tue, 1-5pm, Crossmichael Church Hall, contact Anne on 07889 016 963 Crossmichael Heritage Centre, Wed & Fri, 1.30-4.30pm Cub Scouts, Wed 6.15-7.30pm, Scout Hall, New Galloway Clachan Crafters, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, Thurs 2-4pm, contact 07500 861 041 or minimac01644@gmail.com Glenkens Community Shop, open Wed, Fri & Sat, 10am- 4pm Knockvennie Hall Heat Bank & Snooker Club, contact Andrew on 01556 690 677 Outdoor Bowls, Dalry, contact Fiona Ramsay on 01644 430 587 Snooker/Indoor Bowls, contact Gary on 01644 430 521 USEFUL NUMBERS: ● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000 ● Police, non-emergency: 101 ● Doctor: 01644 420 234 ● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24 ● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000 Glenkens Gazette page 36 Glenkens Gazette Delivered to Outlying Homes If you live in an outlying property in the Glenkens, you may have met our new friendly delivery driver, Gary Eddington, as he popped a Gazette through your mailbox. Soon Gary will have the Glenkens Gazette logo visible on his pick-up, so you will be sure to recognise him when he's out and about. We are thrilled that we have secured funding through Fred Olsen Renewables and the Galloway Glens Scheme to deliver copies of the Gazette door-to-door to the outlying areas of the Glenkens. The push for this came from the response we had during Covid, when we received grant funding from various sources to have the publication delivered door-to-door to every household through Royal Mail. What we found to be the main WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk benefit of this was that households out of the villages, who may not otherwise pick up a Gazette, or even be aware of it, were able to feel connected to the wider community, find out what was going on, etc. Also in these more trying times, it is invaluable to have a regular, trusted someone pop by and say "hi" every few weeks, who can potentially signpost people to helpful resources if they are struggling with rural isolation, heating their home, or anything else that might be more pronounced when living in a rural situation. Editing & Design: sarah.ade@gmail.com APR/MAY COPY DEADLINE: 5 MAR The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No SC032050 The role of the Gazette is to represent the voice of the community and does not represent the views of GCAT.  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 134 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_134 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource GCAT Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2023 Description An account of the resource Editor: Sarah Ade https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/280/GlenkensGazette133.pdf eb620ab0c7ffbbc5928d43d50191736f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Corsock, Crossmichael, Kirkpatrick Durham, Laurieston, Mossdale, New Galloway, Parton and St John’s Town of Dalry December 2022 / January 2023 ISSUE 133 Eli's Hair Raiser Dalry Secondary School pupil, Elizabeth Stevenson, has a new look after a charity event to help raise money for the Little Princess Trust. Elizabeth volunteered to have her long hair cut to help raise money for this special charity, and has so far raised £415. Her hair has been donated to make real hair wigs for young people who have lost their hair, either through treatment for cancer or other conditions that have caused hair loss. Eli said: "I decided to have my long hair cut to help raise money for this special charity. My hair will be donated to make real hair wigs. In particular I wish to raise awareness of how cancer can affect children and young people. I am raising money in memory of close family members affected by cancer, and also in tribute to Alex (better known as TechnoBlade) and Edd Gould - both YouTubers who sadly lost their young lives to cancer." To donate please visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ eli-stevenson FREE Pictured Right: Eli with her long hair. Below: left - Eli's mum, Miriam, helping with the hair cut. Middle - look at all that hair! Right - Eli outside Blackburn's hairdressers in Castle Douglas with her brand new look. Citizens Advice Outreach Service Dumfries & Galloway Citizens Advice Service (D&GCAS) will be providing a face-to-face outreach clinic at community venues across the Glenkens. Once a week for the next two years, D&GCAS will offer general welfare and debt advice and signposting to other sources of help and support. Provision of this service has been made possible through funding from the Blackcraig Wind Farm Community Fund administered by Foundation Scotland in partnership with Glenkens and District Trust. This is of particular importance given that the rising costs of energy and other household necessities are hitting those from rural areas particularly hard. D&GCAS is working with the Glenkens Communities & Arts Trust’s Connecting in Communities team to identify suitable locations for the delivery of the project and recruitment for the new adviser post is underway. In accessing this award Phil Stewart, chief executive officer of D&GCAS, A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative commented: "Our objective in growing our service reach into the Glenkens is to ensure that no one is left behind when it comes to accessing the advice, support and assistance that they need during these very challenging times. We find that living in a rural location often exacerbates the issues faced." Until the project begins Glenkens residents can access existing provision in the Parish Church Halls, Queen Street, Castle Douglas. This service is open on Wednesdays from 10am-4pm for drop-ins (closed 12.30-1pm) and Fridays from 10am4pm for appointments only (closed 12.30-1pm). You can call 0300 303 4321 or email info@dagcas.org to book an appointment. www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 Have Your Say on the Future of Glenkens Forestry It has been announced by Environment Minister Mairi McAllan that a public consultation on future grant support for forestry is to take place in early 2023. The aim is to seek views on the evolution of the Forestry Grant Scheme and find ways to improve the delivery of the Scottish Government’s priorities for Net Zero, biodiversity, community wealth building and the economy. Morag Paterson, who is on the forestry sub-committee for Dalry Community Council and also a founding member of Glenkens-based group Communities for Diverse Forestry (CDF), gives us an overview of how this could impact us and why we need to have our say: We very much welcome the announcement on the public consultation reviewing the forestry grant. In addition, measures will be put in place by spring to enhance public involvement in woodland creation proposals within the existing scheme, for which CDF have been positively campaigning on for over the last two and a half years. The necessity for improving community engagement is backed-up by three recent reports, including the State of the Biosphere and a paper commissioned by the James Hutton institute. We must take a balanced approach when increasing tree cover, using a more diverse range of species including within commercial forests - to enhance biodiversity and habitat connectivity and build resilience from future threats from pests, disease, and climate change. We also must safeguard important species like curlew and black grouse through appropriate site choices and prioritise protecting our peatlands. With overall commercial afforestation targets heavily focused in the south of Scotland, rural communities must get involved with shaping suggested improvements to the Forestry Grant Scheme. We hope to see some partnership between environmental organisations, supporters of multifunctional forestry and community-led initiatives working together to facilitate responses. We need as much input as possible for the review. Unfortunately, we are hearing that people find this type of consultation inaccessible and difficult to navigate, and there is a strong feeling of disenchantment with how recent regional and national consultations have been delivered. With this in mind, Dalry Community Council is keen to support anyone who would like advice with regard to responding to the consultation, as it is crucial that there is a high level of community feedback see contact details in panel below. Dundeugh Forest Long Term Management Plan is open for consultation this December and Mackilston has just had an application for forestry re-submitted. Dalry Community Council would like to hear from anyone who has comments or suggestions with regard to these proposals or would like to get involved with the Forestry Grant Scheme consultation at sjtdalrycc@gmail.com or 07917 102 693. Blackcraig Wind Farm Winter Round The Glenkens and District Trust, working in partnership with Foundation Scotland, is delighted to announce a further ten awards made from the Community Fund in its winter round, with a total sum awarded of £126,362. The trustees are always pleased to see applications spanning the full range of the fund’s strategic priorities but in this round there was a notable concentration of applications focused on providing benefit to the youngest members of our community. This felt particularly vital to trustees as the cost of living crisis starts to impact on family budgets and opportunities. Grants included £12,965.93 to support Scottish Childminding Association to recruit, train and support five new childminders in the Glenkens, increasing local childminding provision and early learning and employment options for local families; £1,000 to Crossmichael and Parton Playgroup to hire a minibus once a month for a year, enabling nursery children to get out and explore their local area and natural environment; £350 for Springholm Nursery to buy a laptop to assist with an outdoor education project photographing natural materials and putting them under the microscope; £1,310.40 for Springholm Parent Council to enable primary children to access ranger-led outdoor education sessions at Loch Ken; and finally £3,026 for Crichton Carbon Centre to promote ‘Biosphere Explorers’ resource packs that will help increase local primary school pupils' understanding of climate change, biodiversity and sustainability. On this crucial issue of climate change trustees were pleased to issue the first award of a larger, multi-year grant, in the form of £45,000 over a period of three years to the Galloway Fisheries Trust (GFT). This is to support a project delivering tree planting around streams in the upper Urr area which aims to protect waterways from the impact of rising temperatures, enabling habitats to remain viable for instream species through shading, and helping to maintain good water quality, as well as preventing erosion and encouraging biodiversity by helping to connect fragmented landscapes by acting as wildlife corridors. This project builds on the first phase of work by GFT which the fund had also supported. Once again trustees were pleased to see that the priorities identified in the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan (CAP) published in 2020 are now starting to come to fruition in the shape of developed projects which are being taken forward by a range of local community organisations. To enable the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust to continue their leadership role across the CAP they received an award of £25,000. Congratulations to all the successful applicants. For more information on the fund, including the availability of the new Education & Training bursaries, visit www. glenkenstrust.org.uk Glenkens Gazette page 3 Affordable Community Homes Coming to Balmaclellan The old filling station site in the centre of Balmaclellan, just opposite the Smiddy, has changed ownership. The Pamela Young Trust (PYT) has purchased the site with a view to constructing community housing. PYT chair, Steve Davie, said: “The recent Housing Needs and Demand Assessment commissioned by the Glenkens District Trust underlined the gap in local affordable housing, and this is borne out by the length of our waiting list. Whilst it may be some time before building can start, we are excited about adding to our list of affordable properties for local people”. Across rural Scotland, communities are facing challenges that impact upon their vitality, resilience and future sustainability. Carsphairn Community Council are keen, at this stage, to understand the manner in which suitable housing supply is impacting their community. Working with South of Scotland Community Housing (SOSCH), they have launched a Housing Survey – part of a wider localised Housing Needs and Demand Assessment that can be used to inform future decision-making. SOSCH is a registered charity who support communities in exploring affordable, community-led housing solutions which address local need, to build sustainable, rural communities across the south of Scotland. Community-led homes give individuals and families opportunities to live, and work, within their communities in an affordable way with secure tenancy options. Community-led housing is about communities taking charge in addressing housing issues to provide strong and resilient communities that might not be possible through the mainstream provision of housing alone. SOSCH have already supported a number of communities in Dumfries and Galloway to plan and deliver community-owned safe, secure, low-energy affordable homes. The Scottish Government supports rural community-led housing and development, At this stage PYTs plans are embryonic, but the intention is to create properties that will provide attractive, affordable and environmentally sustainable homes whilst enhancing the aesthetics of Balmaclellan village centre. Planning permission is in place for two houses but PYT will be looking carefully at the latest research on building homes fit for the 21st century before deciding on plans. In the short-term, PYT plan to clear the site in order to provide temporary parking for local residents, and those visiting the Smiddy. New Housing in Carsphairn Issues such as a lack of new homes being built, rising house prices and development costs, a lack of affordable housing, energy costs, second home ownership and properties entering the short-term holiday market combine to limit opportunities for those who live and work in our rural communities. Lack of housing options will impact upon the sustainability of local service provisions – local schools, shops and support – particularly to our ageing population in Dumfries and Galloway. However, communities across Southern Scotland are working to identify and provide local solutions to these challenges. Carsphairn is one such community - a de-population trend has already impacted upon the school, with the Local Authority currently undertaking formal consultation on its future following its mothballing two years ago. particularly through the Rural Housing Fund. SOSCH assist communities to access this funding and a Housing Survey is a key first step in this process. So, if you live in Carsphairn and are in need of more suitable housing - or have a connection to the community and would like to relocate or are interested in living in the Carsphairn area - please complete the Carsphairn Housing Survey by scanning the QR code below or visiting www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ CarsphairnSurvey. You can also call South of Scotland Community Housing on 07743 4467 21 if you are not online and require a paper copy. The survey will run until 9 January 2023. In addition, SOSCH are also keen to hear about any prospective opportunities for new housing supply and are seeking any information relative to suitable development land or existing empty properties (housing or non-housing) in the local area. Should you be aware of any such opportunities, please contact Alison Gordon, South of Scotland Community Housing at alison.sosch@ outlook.com Carsphairn Community Council Pictured is the view of Carsphairn village and the hills beyond, taken from above Lagwyne Cottage. Glenkens Gazette page 4 BUSINESS in the SPOTLIGHT Galloway Scottish Pasta is a brand new venture for Andrew and Margaret, who some readers may be familiar with as they have run the Smithy Café in New Galloway for the last five years (see article on back page). "A comment from someone during the Glenkens Food Month about food miles incurred when eating pasta made us wonder if we could make pasta from as locally-produced flours as possible. We also wanted to make a pasta that was distinctly Scottish and not just made in Scotland," says Andrew. Experiments began, with mixtures of wheat and oat flour, and the couple found that organic Aberdeenshire oat flour gave the pasta a different colour and texture to traditional pasta, although it did make it more difficult to produce. “From the start, we had wanted to slow-dry the pasta as that was the best way to retain its original flavours and texture; it also made it easier to store and extended the shelf-life. It became apparent, however, that the weather in Scotland in winter is not ideal for slow-drying pasta!" Andrew continued. This lead to the creation, in early in 2022, of a humidity-controlled room within The Smithy cafe, where visitors can now see the pasta being made and dried. Galloway Scottish Pasta is available to buy at local shops in New Galloway, Balmaclellan and Dalry, as well many other outlets throughout Dumfries & Galloway, from F&O Larder in Stranraer, Harris & Co in Castle Douglas to The Wee Shop in Moffat. You can also buy it online at www.gallowaypasta.co.uk and through the Glenkens Food Hub (see ad on p30 for how to use the Hub). To find out more about Galloway Pasta follow them on Facebook @gallowayscottishpasta Glenkens Producers' Market WRIGHTS STORE & POST OFFICE DALRY DALRY DALRY SWEET TREAT SATURDAY DALRY INFORMATION FRESH CREAM CAKES AVAILABLE TO ORDER OPENING HOURS MONDAY – FRIDAY 7.30am – 5.30pm SATURDAY 8.30am – 5pm SUNDAY 8.30am – 3pm LOCAL SUPPLIERS DALMELLINGTON COUNTRY BUTCHERS 2nd Saturday Monthly Dalry Town Hall, 10am-1pm - 10th December & 7th January ...fresh vegetables, baked goods, preserves, bread, fresh meat, smoked products, cheese, artisan cider, chocolates, handmade crafts, gift cards, plants... * Save Fuel - Shop Local * UPPER DULLARG EGGS MITCHELLS FRUIT & VEG SWEETCAKES BAKERY GLENKENS HONEY COMPANY CREAM O GALLOWAY GALLOWAY LODGE PRESERVES IRVINGS BAKERY SCOTTISH GALLOWAY PASTA GLENKENS HONEY COMPANY Want to know what’s going on? Then visit www.dalrytownhall.co.uk POP IN FOR A CHAT AND A BROWSE Glenkens Gazette page 5 Festive Feasting with the Glenkens Food Hub A year after its launch, the Glenkens Food Hub is now a fully-fledged part of shopping in the Glenkens, offering a convenient way to buy local produce. Lesley, who works with the Food Hub, says: "If you haven’t tried a shop with us yet, now is the time! With Christmas in mind the focus this month is on meat for festive feasts. Whilst the Hub loves its veg, the meat offered comes from regeneratively farmed animals within a 30-mile radius of the Glenkens, and is exceptionally tasty and ethical; food which you can eat with a clear conscience." practices to produce nutritious and tasty food locally, while increasing soil health and carbon uptake and providing space for nature to thrive. We believe that, rather than being a key driver of climate change and biodiversity loss (and soil loss for that matter), agriculture has the potential to be an important part of the solution. We also believe that people have a right to have access to healthy food free from chemicals, which are not only harmful to our soil and ecosystems but also to our health. We endeavour to have a positive impact on the land and maintain an absolute respect for all creatures, domestic and wild.” The Hub stocks produce from four farms - Low Auldgirth Steading, near Thornhill and Suie Fields, near Auchencairn both offer a selection of pork, lamb, and beef while Barnbarroch Naomi, Katy and Finn from Suie Fields organic farm, near Wigton, and Bailie Curriach, near Dalbeattie, both gave us a few words on their farming specialise in grass-fed beef. ethos, which we feel encapsulates Here are some favourite choices for the ethos of all our Hub producers: the festive season to inspire you to eat “Our aims are to explore regenerative local for those holiday celebrations. Without a doubt the favourite at Low Auldgirth is 'pigs in blankets'. They find their way onto the dinner plate, the buffet table and even into a festive breakfast. Simply wrap their high-meat content, deliciously tasty sausages in bacon and slow-roast in the oven to bring out the best of the flavour. They highly recommend using their dry cured streaky bacon as the extra fat really A favourite at Barnbarroch is their home-grown adds to the flavour or, grass-fed beef Wellington wrapped in mushrooms, for an interesting twist, prosciutto and puff pastry. THE NOURISHING SPACE HEALTH COACHING LIVE A LONG LIFE WELL and more like this? See ad below for how to order from the Glenkens Food Hub online. If you would like to shop at the Hub but don’t have access to a computer please call Lesley on 07587 122 151 to book a time slot to place your order over the phone. od hu nkens f e s t i v e fo gle b Want to feel less like this try their smoked bacon. Suie Fields would recommend their Highland beef topside roasting joint, roasted in the slow cooker with lots of herbs and veg for a melt-in-the-mouth dish. Luke and Francis at Bailie Curriach highlight their Shetland beef sirloin, salmon cut, slow roasted in the oven with all the trimmings. For Christmas at Barnbarroch they will be having a luxurious beef Wellington using a mouth-watering cut of their own grass-fed, Galloway beef wrapped in mushrooms, prosciutto and puff pastry. Delicious! Barnbarroch farm has been certified organic for over twenty years and, as producers of high-quality beef, they love nothing better than sharing their own produce with family and friends. Christmas is the ultimate time to celebrate quality. Whilst turkey may be traditional, locally grown, sustainable, high welfare beef, lamb and pork could work just as well for this year’s festive feast? Buy all your favourite local produce here this Christmas openfoodnetwork.org.uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop orders open 12pm Wednesday 14th December orders close 10pm Sunday 18th December delivery/collection Tuesday 20th December Get in touch to see how I can help! 07587122151 | lesley@thenourishingspace.co.uk within the glenkens or collect from dalry don't have a computer? call to book your phone order slot - 07587122151 Glenkens Gazette page 6 New Galloway's Community Shop As the festive season approaches, staff at New Galloway Community Shop have been stocking up in the hope that they can help take a little of the stress out of your Christmas shopping. Last-minute gifts, Christmas dinner essentials, items for the post-Christmas clean or those last-minute bits and pieces... Whether it's meat, vegetables, local produce or household essentials, New Galloway shop has regular deliveries arriving throughout the week. If there is anything specific you need, you can ring up or pop in and and order it. Sometimes it’s a struggle to find that last-minute gift or stocking-filler, but the shop has been stocking up on a range of seasonal items to suit budgets, which can also be gift-wrapped. This year New Galloway shop are also raising funds for Marie Curie, thanks to a talented local resident who has donated hand-knitted snowmen and reindeer. The shop will be operating extended hours to coincide with the Catstrand Christmas Shopping Nights on Thursday 1 and Friday 2 December, as well as during the Christmas Lights Parade on Sunday 4 December, and will be closed on Christmas day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day to allow staff a well-deserved break. New Galloway shop is a community owned and operated enterprise (owned by New Galloway Community Enterprises - NGCE) that relies on your custom to thrive and survive. NGCE would like to say "thank you" for your continued support in 2022. The shop also offers volunteering opportunities which would be a great opportunity for a young person just starting out to gain handson experience and to learn key skills, and also great to put on a CV. Or if you have recently moved to the Glenkens, and perhaps would like to meet some more people, volunteering is a great way to make new friends - get in touch to find out more at ngce5000@ gmail.com or call 01644 420 620. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2023 from everyone at New Galloway Community Enterprises! Pictured: Below - one of the shop's Christmas hampers filled with local goodies. Bottom - the welcoming interior of New Galloway Community Shop. Stewartry Food Train The local Food Train, based in Castle Douglas, has received a boost to its funds thanks to local fundraising efforts. The guild at St Margaret’s church in New Galloway ran a tombola stall at the Alternative Games in August, raising a sum of £460 for the Stewartry Food Train. Jiff Hyde, development officer at the Food Train, said: “With costs rising in every direction, we really appreciate this contribution from St Margaret’s Guild. All the money raised enables us to support older people who wish to remain in their own homes by providing grocery shopping and delivery, help with small household jobs, a befriending service and Meal Makers, a neighbourhood meal sharing service. We are so grateful to St Margaret’s for their donation, as well as to our wonderful volunteers who deliver our services.” Glenkens Gazette page 7 Galloway Community Transport Bids a Fond Farewell to Glen Glen Murray is retiring from the role of Galloway Community Transport Manager at the end of December. He has been in this post for some eight years, having been with Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) prior to this appointment. For almost all of that time, he was the only member of staff working on what was then called the Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) and put some quite Herculean amounts of work into transforming that organisation into what it is today. From the start, when there was just one minibus, the fleet has grown to three minibuses plus the operation of three Council-owned buses, an eCar and the range of ebikes that it boasts today. From 2019, when Galloway Community Transport (GCT) was re-born as its own SCIO, it has been able to fundraise and take on contracts in a way that it couldn’t before. GCT is still very much a core GCAT project and a critical part of the GCAT family. From such modest beginnings GCT is now a key transport provider in the Glenkens and beyond running registered bus routes, school bus runs and patient transport services, as well as accommodating registered usergroups and organising recreational trips. As Glen approaches his well-deserved retirement, it is just as well that he has been joined by two new(ish) members of the GCT team. Jon Betts joined as administrator last November and will be stepping up as GCT manager from January. The administrator role was back-filled by Sue McMinn in October, and between the three of them, they are working hard to achieve a smooth transition to ‘life after Glen’. GCT wouldn't be where it is today, and indeed couldn’t run, without its pool of paid and volunteer drivers – their contribution to the success of GCT cannot be overstated. It is also supported by a Trustee board, whose advice I know Glen always appreciates. Glen leaves GCT on something of a high – it is known regionally and nationally as a gold standard Community Transport Organisation, and we have very recently found out that we have received full grant funding to cover the cost of an additional minibus – this time a fully accessible electric one - putting GCAT and GCT’s aims of net zero operations one step closer. Glen at the wheel of one of the minibuses in the GCT fleet. So, we wish Glen all the very best for this next phase of his life, and hope that he takes with him proud memories of all that he has achieved with Galloway Community Transport while he sails off into the sunset! We look forward to working with Jon and Sue as they consolidate and build on Glen’s success. Helen Keron, GCAT Executive Manager Glenkens Gazette page 8 Glenkens Archaeology: Chapelyard The Chapelyard site, situated halfway between Dalry and Knowehead, has had a fascinating and complex history which has remained formally un-investigated…until now! The ‘Can You Dig It’ community archaeology team investigated this multi-phase site that stretches from a possible medieval chapel through to the ruins of a post-medieval farming settlement. While nothing remains of the chapel, the site was tested for any surviving traces or medieval finds. At the same time, the remains of adjacent farmstead ruins were surveyed, and it appears they date from at least the 17th right through to the 19th century. Claire Williamson, archaeologist from the Can You Dig It project, would like to thank everyone who took part in this project. Jan Hogarth, Galloway Glens Education & Community Engagement Officer Pictured: Below left - Joan and John managed to get down to the foundations of one of the structures and even got a few bits of 19th/20th century pottery along the way. Below right - Geoff, Sheila, John and Joan investigate a possible small rectangular structure just to the east of the enclosure. Community Woodland Fun Carsphairn Community Woodland held another enjoyable open day in October. Despite the weather there was a great turnout and those attending enjoyed participating in the activities on offer, with the more energetic folk tackling the climbing wall provided by the Galloway Activities Centre. Children were able to enjoy various activities including a coconut shy, a fairy trail and ‘roll the stone into the crocodile’s mouth’! Photos show some of the demonstrations and activities that took place. Pictured are visitors getting involved with demonstrations of spinning and weaving, crook making, archery and, for the most intrepid, Galloway Activity Centres climbing wall. Glenkens Gazette page 9 THE GALLOWAY GLENS SCHEME – OUR APPROACH £4 MILLION SPEND RECORDED THROUGH THE SCHEME TO DATE 90 ATTENDEES 9 NEW OR REFURBISHED BUILDINGS SO FAR ON ‘GO WILD’ OUTDOOR EDUCATION CAMPS 23 MILES OF IMPROVED FOOTPATH, INCLUDING 4 NEW BRIDGES 4 YEARS DALRY POSITIONS WITH PARTNERS SO FAR As we approach the end of the Scheme in September 2023, we look at headline achievements so far and try to summarise the approach taken. We are an initiative of the Dumfries & Galloway Council’s Environment Team. Many thanks as always to all partners and funders, without whom none of this would be possible… CARSPHAIRN 11 INTERN The Galloway Glens Scheme is five years of co-ordinated and focussed activity in the Ken/Dee valley, seeking to ‘connect people to their heritage’ while boosting the local economy and supporting sustainable communities. CLATTERINGSHAWS OF THE NATIONALLY ACCLAIMED ‘CAN YOU DIG IT’ COMMUNITY ARCHAEOLOGY PROJECT LAUNCHED THE SOUTH OF SCOTLAND TREE PLANTING GRANT SCEME IN D&G SUPPORTED THE LOCH KEN TRUST NOW RUNNING ONE OF THE FIRST COMMUNITY-LED RANGER SERVICES IN SCOTLAND LOCH KEN >30,000 MILES 27 AWARDS MADE TRAVELLED BY TAGGED GREENLAND WHITE-FRONTED GEESE THROUGH THE SMALL GRANTS SCHEME OUR APPROACH Identify challenges facing communities and work in partnership to design solutions Establish a relationship with partners and then trust them to deliver A ‘place-based’ approach – breaking barriers between topics and sectors, with a focus on the Ken/Dee Valley Draw funding from the national stage to be spent in D&G Use our time-limited nature to our advantage, encouraging momentum and urgency CASTLE DOUGLAS ‘NATURE POSITIVE’ HEADLINE PROJECTS SUPPORTED UP AND DOWN THE VALLEY >2,500 PROJECTS SUPPORTED INCLUDING THREAVE LANDSCAPE RESTORATION PROJECT, PEATLAND CONNECTIONS AND THE BLACK WATER OF DEE HABITAT RESTORATION KIRKCUDBRIGHT 35 ENTRIES IN THE PLACE NAMES DATABASE >75% OF SPEND IS WITH D&G BUSINESSES PRIMARY FUNDER: Glenkens Gazette Calling All Crafters! A new community craft project is planned to commence in the new year. Angie Bradford, in her role as LING events, activities and inclusion manager, and Miriam Stevenson, of Midge Porter Design, are proposing a year-long multi-textile craft project which will hopefully result in a combined community wall hanging that will tour the Glenkens. The working title is 'Inspiring Glenkens'. The idea behind the project is to bring together the talents of the community craft groups of the Glenkens in a single project. As there seem to be quite a few new faces in the area, Angie and Miriam also thought it would be a nice way of helping people feel involved with their new home, and to introduce them to the existing craft groups in the region. Miriam said: “We thought that 'Inspiring Glenkens' would be a good title to encourage established local crafters to share what inspires them about our beautiful and diverse region and for new residents, who maybe don't know as much about the area but have been inspired to come and live here, to express themselves creatively”. There are several active craft groups in the Glenkens, all of which are very welcoming and encourage crafters to bring their own projects to work on and to share ideas and tips with other members. The groups also offer the opportunity to try out new crafts. 'Inspiring Glenkens’ plans to reach out to new and existing members of craft groups in order to create a combined community craft project. Textile panels for the wall hanging would be created, either individually or as teams, with crafters using any textile craft medium they like. The aim would be to meet every three to four months to show and discuss progress, and for people to get to know each other (if they don't already). An application for funding for the project, if successful, will be split between local craft groups in Balmaclellan, Dalry and Carsphairn. For further information, interested parties can contact Angie at page 10 communityinclusion.ling@gmail.com or Miriam at midgeporterdesign@ btinternet.com If you would like to take part you would be made most welcome - details of the craft groups involved are: Balmaclellan – Glenkens Crafters: Balmaclellan Village Hall, Weds 10am12pm. Contact: Julia Higgins Julia. higgins55@outlook.com Carsphairn – Carsphairn Craft Group: Lagwyne Hall, Fri 10am– 12pm. Contact: Maggie Phillips at carsphairncraftgroup@gmail.com Dalry – Clachan Crafters: Glenkens Community Centre, Thurs 2-4pm. Contact: Sarah McAdam at minimac01644@gmail.com Carsphairn Shout Out for Memories of Donald Watson Watson Birds is currently producing a book about Donald Watson, the local bird artist, writer and conservation campaigner who lived in Dalry for over 50 years. As editor, I have commissioned contributions covering all aspects of Donald's life from those who knew him well; the artist, the scientist, the man of the Glenkens, the family man and the conservation campaigner. If you have any memories or tales of Donald please let me know as I would love to include local anecdotes. Please get in touch with me by letter at 6 Eskside West, Musselburgh, EH21 6HZ, by email at roger.dodin@ btinternet.com or by phone on 07803 595 267. I look forward to hearing from you, Roger Crofts Carsphairn’s branch of the SWI is a small, social and active group who enjoy sharing A beautiful tapestry, which was a experiences Carsphairn SWI millenium project, and skills, as which was recently moved into the well as learning main section of Lagwyne Hall so it can be appreciated by everyone. new ones. Membership of the SWI is available to all women in Scotland and there is an emphasis on friendship and inclusiveness. Within the SWI, preserving traditional skills remains important. However, these are added to by the introduction of new experiences and ideas, we like to move with the times. We extend an invitation to anyone who would like to join us. You will be made very welcome and could come along as a visitor in the first instance, to see if you enjoy it. To find out more please call 01644 460 577. Glenkens Gazette page 11 The Optimistic Environmentalist Rubber, Bakelite and an Eco Friendly Christmas This section has been inspired by readers' questions on the recyclability of bakelite and rubber. Pure rubber is a natural product made from sap; this 'green' rubber can be melted down and remoulded and will biodegrade over a long time. However, most rubber is mixed with chemicals and metals that improve particular features, eg hardness, durability and elasticity. This type of rubber is therefore reused rather than recycled. Estimates vary but globally we produce in excess of two billion worn-out tyres per year - the largest percentage of rubber used. Tyres can be recovered (remoulds) to prolong their life. Some children's play areas use old tyres for children to clamber in and out of or to hang from trees or use as a seat on swings. They can also be used in your garden or public places for barriers or to grow plants in. There are companies that cut up used rubber to make things like mouse mats, cup stands or clothes. Rubber is ground up to make playground, fitness or running track flooring, mats, shoes, garden mulch, sports turf, livestock pens, and mixed into road hardcore. Reclaiming and reusing rubber uses far less energy than producing new rubber, decreasing the demand on plantations, deforestation and impact on water, soil and animal habitats. According to www. asm-recycling.co.uk, recycling four tyres reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 323 pounds (about 147 kg). Much of our waste rubber goes into landfill, but this does not apply to tyres which must be repurposed or exported. Bakelite is a plastic made from synthetic chemicals. It was used more in the 30s and 40s. Now it's only used in homes for cooking handles on pots and utensils because it does not get hot or soften when heated. It is mostly used for brake pads, wire insulation and related automotive components. It is difficult to recycle because it does not lend itself to remoulding when heated and releases many harmful chemicals. There is a limited interest in trying to recycle bakelite as a carbon source for iron and steel-making, but in general this plastic goes to landfill. Some Eco Christmas Ideas • Gifts with as little plastic as possible • Cuddly toys often have plastic beads inside but don't say this; to be sure, make them yourself or get a friend to • Wooden toys with FSC certification (a standard which guarantees that trees are replaced responsibly); broken parts can then be composted but only if the paint or varnish is safe • Board and computer games they can teach children and adults about environmental issues and solutions whilst having fun eg www. chaostheorygames.com and www. thegoodlifegame.co.uk • A beekeeper's course, suit or other equipment • Seeds, eg wildflowers and other insectattracting plants • Peat-free compost • Electric gardening tools • UK flowers, eg www.gallowayflowers. co.uk • Wind up equipment, eg a radio • Bamboo or organic cotton bedding • Products with clear green credentials, eg www.ethicalconsumer.org, www. theecoshopuk.com • Make your own Christmas crackers containing paper hats, surprising eco facts and ideas about actions that the recipient can do • Use wrapping paper and tape that is recyclable (a lot of Christmas paper isn't) • Wrap parcels in paper and cardboard, trying to minimise use of plastic bubblewrap, jiffy bags, etc. It is better, though, to reuse or pass on rather than just throw away • Support environmental charities as presents, eg Friends of the Earth, Green Peace, World Animal Protection, WWF, RSPB, Sea Shepherd. Many send information packs containing stickers and posters, or newsletters to interest the whole family explaining their work • Have a competition with your family or friends to create tasty recipes with Christmas leftovers Denise MacDonald-Kiernan Gordon McAdam Plumbing & Heating 22 Kirkland Street St John’s Town of Dalry 01644 430 393 07834 321 789 Glenkens Gazette page 12 The Battle of Stirling Bridge Dalry Secondary S1 students took part in a re-enactment of Scotland’s first war of Independence - the Battle of Stirling Bridge using the school grounds as their outdoor theatre. Their drama was scripted by Mrs Warren and explored how, on 11 September 1297, Andrew Moray and William Wallace defeated the English forces of John de Warenne and Hugh de Cressingham near Stirling, on the bridge over the River Forth. After bringing the story to life through drama they then tried their hands at journalism, producing their own excellent newspaper reports of the battle to display in the classroom. Perhaps some future journalists are emerging in Dalry - watch this space… Pictured left are S1 pupils re-enacting the battle, with history teacher, Mrs Warren, having been fatally wounded. The pupil article above, written in 'news' style, is by Molly and Rosa. Dalry School Basketball Team Dalry Secondary got off to an incredible start in this season's regional basketball matches. There were two games, one against Castle Douglas High School and the other against Dumfries High School, and the Dalry Secondary team won both. The wins become even more impressive when you take into account the fact that both of of the other schools have well over ten times the number of pupils that Dalry Secondary has (CD has 550 students and Dumfries has around 800, compared with Dalry's 45), highlighting the level of skill of the Dalry players. Since the start of the last school session, a number of pupils have really taken to the sport and improved immeasurably, with five pupils now playing competitively for Ayr. To further support the team the school are looking to purchase a new basketball kit so the boys really look the part at their games. Any fundraising/community donations would be very welcome! If you would like to donate, either hand donations in to the school office or you can make a payment to Friends of Dalry School (bank details are Friends of Dalry School, sort code 80-06-11, account number 00322693) or to get in touch with FoDS visit them on Facebook @Friends of Dalry School. Pictured below are members of Dalry Secondary's basketball team raring to go before the November matches, from which they came away victorious. Glenkens Gazette page 13 Schools and the Community Traditionally the 'friends of the school' are parents of pupils who attend that school. It makes good sense - after all, it's the children of those parents that benefit from the fundraising and social events that are often seen as the core business of a 'friends of the school' group. The wider community often holds less interest in the role of a school, but I feel that rural communities need to challenge that norm to retain a thriving existence. Friends of Dalry School (FoDS) was set up some years ago in order to provide a fundraising body for Dalry school, which includes both the primary and the secondary school. The organisation is a registered charity, so is able to apply for funding and benefit from opportunities such as reduced tax that the school or parent council would not be able to access. But why, once your children have flown the nest or you are living an independent single life, would you take an interest in Friends of Dalry School? The truth is that there are many motivators. Estate agents across Scotland will tell you that schools are a 'top 3' consideration for house buyers - so a flourishing school with great opportunities adds to your house value. As well as benefiting local homeowners on a financial level, schools also impact a community's overall health and wellbeing, having traditionally been one of the pillars of a community along with churches, post offices and, some might say, the public houses. Schools, however, hold a unique position in maintaining a balanced, multigenerational community. Schools enable our communities to regenerate. The Office for National Statistics shows that ageing households not only have fewer members but they often need less and spend less which, in turn, reduces opportunities for business which reduces opportunity for employment which reduces migration to the area which reduces opportunities for business, which reduces…well you can see where this goes. On the social side, the multigenerational nature of our rural communities is what enables them to thrive, and has been shown to be one of the healthiest ways to live. Communities where residents of all ages interact supports cultural traditions and values – as well as new innovations and technology – being shared between generations, which helps build a sense of personal and community identity and safety while encouraging tolerance. Members of a healthy, mixed-age community have been shown to possess a more positive, confident outlook as a result of interacting with a broad spectrum of ages, while social barriers are broken down. can’t expect an education department in Dumfries and a head teacher in Castle Douglas to see what we see; they don't live here. We need to ensure that the assets we know are here are utilised to their full potential. Becoming a Friend of Dalry School is not just about donating money, although that does help to access opportunities. It is about creating a strong network and supporting the school through time, energy and sharing a united vision. It's singing Dalry Secondary School's praises to all and sundry so people are aware of what an asset it is, both for our children and for the wider community. Through the school, we can create a work force suited to the needs of our communities. If our young people are nurtured and supported and are raised with a love of the Glenkens and a real sense of place, there is a strong likelihood that they will stay in the area, or return from worldly adventures to start families back where they grew up. FoDS is a place where you can bring whatever you have and make a difference. We should look at the future with ambition. Dalry Secondary School can thrive and be a centre of excellence in rural education. An easy way to support the schools is to set up a monthly donation - please get in touch for bank details. FoDS is also registered at www.giveasyoulive. org.uk where you can login and each time you make a purchase at many regular sites like Amazon and Tesco, an amount is donated to FoDS - so it doesn't even cost you anything! To find out more, or get involved, visit the Friends of Dalry School Facebook page - the more people who join FoDS, the more our shared vision for our schools, and our community, grows! Members of a healthy, mixed-age community have been shown to possess a more positive, confident outlook as a result of interacting with a broad spectrum of ages, while social barriers are broken down. It is these benefits, rather than improving your house price, that I hope will motivate you to become a Friend of Dalry School - supporting our community school supports us all, helping our wonderful Glenkens to continue to thrive into the future. What's Great About Dalry Secondary At the risk of sounding like a certain president, let's “Make Dalry Great Again” - or indeed remind people that it is great, as it's often the things closest to home that get overlooked. Let's make Dalry Secondary the school of choice for those in the Glenkens. Dalry’s rural position is seen by some as a reason to dismiss it, but in truth it is a strength. The benefits go far beyond a high teacher-to-pupil ratio. Its location on the edge of the Forest Park opens up unique opportunities. It’s proximity to renewable energy schemes, forestry and agriculture brings rich opportunities for both business and education if we can capitalise on them. And I haven’t even touched on working with eco-tourism or cycling initiatives, and all the other exciting projects and developments under way as we speak. We, as a united Glenkens community, Alastair Lamb, parent of children in Dalry Primary and Secondary Schools Glenkens Gazette page 14 Farewell to Ranger Ken The Loch Ken Trust has bid a fond farewell to Ranger Ken Scott. Ken was the trust’s first ever Loch Ken Ranger and paved the way for us as one of the first community-led Ranger Services in Scotland. Over his eighteen-months of employment Ken has patrolled the loch over 200 times and responded to over 166 incidents including dirty camping, campfire damage, wildlife crime, pollution and fly-tipping, often working in conjunction with partner agencies such as D&G Council Community Safety team, D&G Council Access Officer, Scottish Environment Protection Agency and the Police Scotland Wildlife Crime team. Education sessions were a very important part of Ken’s work and funding enabled him to host lochside events for a number of local schools. Ken said: "It’s very exciting that our next generation are growing up with the knowledge to help them look after this beautiful environment." Ken’s commitment to his work has ensured our beautiful Loch has been better cared for, enabling everyone to enjoy our natural world responsibly. Local landowners commented on the vast reduction of antisocial behaviour and rubbish left on their land since Ken took up his position in April last year. Ken was instrumental in the setup of our Visitor Management Plan and his friendly presence around the loch will certainly be missed by all. Ken educating local school children on safe and sound lochside protocol. The Loch Ken Trust would like to thank Ken for all the amazing work he has done over the past eighteen months and wish him all the best for the future. Our most recently appointed Ranger, Leanne Pumpr, will continue with patrols around the Loch. The Loch Ken Trust Team Connecting Community Spaces Through New Asset Network A new network is being set up in the Glenkens and district to support town hall and village hall committees. Thanks to funding from the Blackcraig Wind Farm Fund, Becca Nelson has just started in post with Glenkens Communities & Arts Trust as the Glenkens asset network facilitator. Becca will be hosting bi-monthly network meetings for all interested parties with an additional day a week to move some of the actions forward which are flagged up at these meetings. Becca said: “I am looking forward to meeting everyone and getting the network going. The committees do such good work already, I’m excited about how I can help them and how we can perhaps achieve even more by working together.” Becca will be introducing herself around the area throughout November and December, with a view to having the first network meeting in January. If you would like to get in touch with Becca before then you can email becca.glenkens. anf@gmail.com Galloway Sorting Tender Many readers I'm sure will be aware of the old railway which ran from Dumfries to Stranraer and Portpatrick, known as the Paddy Line. Its stations included Castle Douglas, Crossmichael, Parton, New Galloway (actually at Mossdale) and Gatehouse of Fleet. The line carried passenger traffic and freight, but also an important part of its business was to take a 'sorting tender'. This was a small post office sorting facility where letters and packages were sorted by post office staff on the move, so that they were ready for immediate delivery when they reached their destination. The Galloway Sorting Tender ran from 1871 to 1904 when the name changed to Galloway Sorting Carriage and then from 1930 to 1940 it was known as Galloway TPO (Travelling Post Office). An example of one of these carriages is preserved in the National Railway Museum in York, although the preserved example was never used on the Paddy Line - a photo of the interior is included below. On 31 December 1935, the sorting carriage was involved in the Ken Valley derailment. Two postmen were injured and the carriage was destroyed. Stamp collectors sometimes come across examples of Victorian stamps that bear the cancellation which was used on board ‘Galloway Sorting Tender’ - the example below is from 1872. Paul Goodwin Glenkens Gazette page 15 The Glenkens Kvöldvaka A wonderful Icelandic winter tradition has been unfolding in the Glenkens: the kvöldvaka (‘evening wake’). It is brought by New Galloway based author Sarah Thomas, whose new memoir The Raven’s Nest, is set in Iceland’s rural and rugged Westfjords region. Dating back to a time when the majority of Icelanders lived on farms, in the winter months, when the days became short and outdoor work was made impossible by darkness, the household would come inside. After the rökkurstund - an hour or so of relaxation in the twilight hour - a single fish oil lamp would be ritually lit, and the kvöldvaka would begin. The household would share in the light of that lamp, and as they continued the necessary wool work of knitting, darning and spinning, someone would read aloud to them - the sagas, poetry, the scriptures. Even in times of scarce resources and deepest poverty, everyone could share in a story and become literate, and this gave rise to the nation of book lovers Iceland is today. "Kvöldvaka is a wonderful tradition I witnessed when I spent several years living in Iceland, and became part of a family of sheep farmers and fishermen. I decided to use it as a way to share my new book which is about those people and that place," says Sarah. She continues; "Being read aloud to in this way as an adult is very special. It is relaxing, transportive and convivial in a way we rarely get to experience. I invite audiences to bring their knitting and mending to do as I read, and in a strange way this ‘creates time’. You complete that darning you never get around to, whilst hearing a story, and you get some alone time in your mind whilst being in company. Jólabókaflóð ('Christmas Book Flood'). It is tradition for everyone to receive a book for Christmas and part of Christmas Day is spent reading, so November onwards sees a flurry of book buying - a fine tradition! Why not gift a copy of The Raven’s Nest to a loved one this Christmas? It’s dark outside, so come coorie in by candle glow and lamplight and be read to. And if you wish, bring your knitting and mending! Glenkens Kvvöldvaka is part of the CatStrand Arts Programme and is also supported by the Galloway Glens Scheme. It will continue for the following dates: 29 November at CatStrand, 6 December at The Smiddy and 13 December at CatStrand, on a 'pay what you feel'basis. Signed copies of The Raven's Nest are available at the readings and Sarah will be happy to inscribe them for you. The book is also stocked in the CatStrand shop as well as all good bookshops and online. Being read aloud to in this way as an adult is very special. It is relaxing, transportive and convivial in a way we rarely get to experience. "At my readings, jumper armpits have been mended, mittens made, embroidery done. In some ways, this combination of handiwork and story is the most profoundly human thing we can do. We are wired for it. Perhaps that’s why it feels so calming. In an increasingly fractious world this feels like a valuable thing to offer. Since June, I have toured with The Raven’s Nest through Iceland and the UK doing this at music festivals, literature festivals, bookshops, art galleries, village halls, and - a particular highlight - the Royal Botanical Garden in Edinburgh for Book Week Scotland." Another Icelandic bookish phenomenon begins at this time of year: the Ukranian Lessons? My name is Graham and I am resident in the Glenkens. I am retired and do a little voluntary work at the primary school in Moniaive. I have had a broad experience during my working life and the last 12-15 years I have mainly worked with young children in the 3-11 age group; incidentally this has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my life. Ever since the war in Ukraine started I have been wondering what I can do to help, aside from donating some money to an account set up by the Ukrainian Army. I have decided that next summer (July/ August), during the summer holidays, I will make a trip to Ukraine in my van along with my dog Ivy. My plan is to fill the van with enough supplies to help set up a small kindergarten and primary school. In conjunction with the staff at Moniaive primary school and playcare centre I will make a list of things to take. I am limited to what I can take as it all has to fit in my van. I will publish a list and start fundraising early next year. At the moment I am asking the Ukrainians who are resident in Glenkens for help. Mainly I would like to learn some basics of the Ukrainian language and alphabet. I am able to pay a small amount to anyone who can help. Thanks in advance, Graham Firewood for Sale Carsphairn Community Woodland From ï Free local delivery ï Enquiries to: Tel: 07710 124 255 Carsphairn Community Woodland Limited is commi�ed to acquiring, developing and managing local woodlands in a sustainable and environmentally sound way for the long-term benefit of the local community. Firewood for Sale Website: www.carsphairn.org/CCWL Company Limited by Guarantee SC591976 Carsphairn Community Woodland From Glenkens Gazette page 16 On the Trail of a Good Story The Glenkens Story's motto has always been "Sharing Our History" and this will be the focus of the history group's first meeting in 2023. John Nelson lives near Crossmichael and has a deep interest in local and family history. One of his family's stories became the focus of John’s book, On the Trail of a Broken Shoe: The True Story of the Last Man Hanged in Scotland for Horse Stealing. Since publishing the book in early 2022 John has spoken to many audiences about the story, the journey it inspired and the light it sheds on Galloway’s rural past. But how does someone take a family story and share it with a wider audience? The Glenkens Story has invited John to talk about how he set about "Sharing Our History" and how the book itself came about. In conversation with historical novelist Margaret Elphinstone, John will describe how he took a family tale, gathered facts from friends and relatives, visited archives and records, polished his story-telling skills in creative writing classes and went on to publish, negotiating the hazards of marketing and the vagaries of the book trade. Every family has something to contribute to the total of local history. This is a story of how individual stories can be shared. This event will be held on Sunday 22 January from 2-4pm at CatStrand, New Galloway. For tickets, priced £8, call 01644 420 374 or visit www.gcat.scot Mike Brown Hallowe'en in the Glenkens This year hallowe'en in the Glenkens was great fun, with lots of guising going on as well as a party in Dalry Town Hall. LING (Local Initiatives in New Galloway) joined forces with Friends of Dalry School (FoDS) to put on a halloween party for children and young people in the area, which was a great success. Kids enjoyed a range of hallowe'en-themed party games, starting with fun for the wee ones from 4.30-6.30pm, and then more activities suited to older children from 7-8.30pm. Activities included decorating biscuits, pin the smile on the pumpkin, musical monsters, 'mystery boxes' with horrorfilled contents, dooking for apples, turning people into mummies and eating ring biscuits on strings. The young people also enjoyed David Tallontire CHIMNEY SWEEP Covering the Glenkens & further afield 07709 144 299 - wood burners - multi-fuel stoves - open fires - Agas - Rayburns - birds nest removal with CCTV inspection - certificates issued - feel free to call for advice - Find me on Facebook hanging out together and listening to hallowe'en music, as well as eating a range of halloween-themed snacks from 'dead finger' hot dogs to 'raw meat' and 'sick' crispy cakes to 'eyeball' jelly - and, of course, lots of sweets! LING would like to say a big thank you to FoDS for organising the party, in particular to Julie and Sarah for all their hard work - the young people had a great time. On the theme of Hallowe'en, children also enjoyed guising in the Glenkens villages, and in New Galloway the McGaws and the Joneses outdid themselves once again with well thought out, terrifying themes perfect for the intrepid guiser...definitely not for the faint hearted! For more on LING youth events, see p30, and there is an ad on the back page of this issue for a youth worker if that's something which may be of interest to you or someone you know. Family and friends coming to stay? Short of space? Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 www.covenanters-holidaycottagescotland.co.uk A Glenkens young person accepts the iced ring challenge at the Dalry Town Hall LING/FoDS hallowe'en party. 唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀Ⰰ 䰀漀漀猀攀 䌀漀瘀攀爀猀Ⰰ 䘀愀戀爀椀挀猀Ⰰ 䌀甀猀栀椀漀渀猀 刀攀昀椀氀氀攀搀 䘀爀攀攀 䔀猀琀椀洀愀琀攀猀 吀栀攀 圀漀爀欀猀栀漀瀀Ⰰ 䴀漀渀礀戀甀椀攀Ⰰ 䌀漀爀猀漀挀欀⸀ 䐀䜀㜀 ㌀䐀夀 眀眀眀⸀䠀愀爀爀椀猀ⴀ唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀 ㄀㘀㐀㐀 㐀㐀 㔀㈀㤀 Glenkens Gazette page 17 The Life of the Atlantic Salmon The Atlantic salmon has a complicated life. Their lifecycle of breeding in freshwater before going to sea to grow before returning to their home river to breed is taught at schools across the country. Atlantic salmon face challenges that would be unsurmountable to many fish. This is due to the different osmotic challenges the two environments pose; in freshwater the fluids in the fish will be saltier than their environment and water will try and flood in, the reverse is true in saltwater. For a young salmon, about to embark on its journey to sea, it must change its physiology from that of a freshwater fish to a marine fish. The switch, called smoltification, puts huge stresses on the fish. To add to that stress, whilst the fish is undergoing this change it must negotiate its way down a river from its home grounds to the sea; on the Dee this is a journey of up to 30 miles. Within the river, the migration is relatively passive; fish wash down, riding the current during elevated flows. In areas of still or very slow-moving water they cannot just ride the current, however, and they must swim; this swim involves the highest risk. Diminutive in size (typically less than 15cm) they are a tasty snack for many predators such as pike, trout, cormorant and otters, which abound in the slower water. Anything that likes a fishy supper likes a tasty smolt! Towards the end of the ice age, the first of the Dee salmon entered the river. They found a river that had a small number of lochs and, in the lower reaches, sections of slow flowing water, but in the main access was a breeze and the habitat for rearing their young was superb. The Dee became the most prolific salmon river in southwest Scotland and the spawning grounds in the Ken, from New Galloway upstream, were some of the most important areas for them. In the early 20th century, power within the river Dee was identified and one of the biggest hydroelectric schemes in the world was constructed. Dams were constructed throughout the river creating large expanses of new ‘stillwater’; still water that predators abounded in. Flow was controlled, blunting the small rises in water that the fish relied upon to migrate out the river. The natural outlets to lochs were replaced by concrete walls and turbines turbines that the fish would have to pass through. Salmon were considered, but our knowledge of their needs was scant. Upstream migration of fish was provided, but little thought was put into the needs of the fish leaving the river. 100 years on we understand salmon in greater detail. In 2021 Galloway Glens, DRAX, Galloway Fisheries Trust and the Dee District Salmon Fisheries Board came together to embark on a piece of ground-breaking research to investigate the issue and get a better understanding of what’s going on. We captured a small A map of the smolt listening stations along the number of smolts upstream of migration route; red dots are receivers, yellow Dalry and implanted some tiny stars are smolt trap-and-release sites (Polharrow acoustic tags within them. These and Coom burns) and black lines are man-made tags go ping at frequent intervals impoundments (Earlstoun and Tongland dams, with unique pitches. Throughout Glenlochar barrage). the Dee system we placed several receivers which recorded the fish as they passed on their also noted that 2021 was a very good way downstream. From this we could year nationally for smolt migration with determine where and when the losses elevated flows in the spring happening occurred. at the right time and with the right The work went better than expected and frequency. These results are a snapshot we managed to determine that 58% of in time, and in a year when conditions for the smolts leaving the Upper Dee would smolt migration were excellent. Further make it to the estuary. The mortality work needs to be done to determine at dams was lower than expected with what would happen in other years when 88% of fish making it through past the migration is trickier. barriers, passing through the turbines A detailed summary can be seen on the under generation, even when alternative Galloway Glens website. routes were available. Overall, the pattern Galloway Glens would like to thank of migration was similar to that found in DRAX, Galloway Fisheries Trust, The other rivers with a natural flow. It was Dee District Salmon Fisheries Board and Glasgow University for assistance in this project as well as, of course, the National Heritage Lottery without which none of this work would have been possible. Nick Chisholm N ew Galloway Golf Club Spalding Bowling Club Well done to all the winners at spalding this season! Spalding held its annual prize giving at Lochinvar Hotel, Dalry. Another good season was had by all with this year's Gents Champion being John peacock and Ladies Champion Kate Bone. Founded Foun ded 1902 www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk - 01644 420737 Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Glenkens Gazette page 18 sponsored by If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk FREE MDF-type computer desk with split level surfaces for monitor and keyboard. It has recesses for CDs/DVDs on either side and shelves underneath for scanner, printer, etc. Dimensions are 144cm high x 100cm wide x 65cm deep. Contact: 01644 430 103. Perennial plants, come and dig them up and take them away; everything must go. Contact: sandjharvie@gmail. com Amazon Fire7 tablet (no charger) for email, kindle books, internet, movies, etc. Trust Slimline small drawing tablet (no stylus). Box of computer bits & bobs cables, routers, etc. Two large paper guillotines, suitable for office. All to be collected. Contact: Val on 01644 460 526. Horse manure, rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 07845 562 217 We are seeking to buy a home with 2-3 bedrooms and 3-5 acres of land. Anywhere and any condition considered - please help us to stay in the Glenkens! Contact: Abi and Bruce on 07340 531506 or abi@mordin.net Or would you like to experience a Reiki session for general balancing/ issues with life Distance or face to face sessions for you or your pet      Approved Therapist Reiki can help to restore the body’s natural ability to heal and create balance. Double bed size divan base with drawers. Contact: 01644 460 673 Chest freezer. Contact: Tony on 07507 704 821 Old lawn mowers/ strimmers/other small machinery. Non-runners/ broken welcome. Contact: HOME WANTED IN THE GLENKENS Reiki Master Praconer     Full PPE and insured WANTED  Glenkens Gazette page 19 sponsored by The Nature of the Games We Play I began the year intent on two things that I’d not done before. One was to record the broad habits of our (Dalry) jackdaws or ‘Jaikies’ throughout the year, to answer some basic questions beyond their obvious sociability and habit of nesting in lums. I have done this. Secondly, in the light of a grandfatherly realisation that many children don’t have the deep connection with nature that many of my generation had, I resolved to make seasonal recollections of my own outdoor activities as a boy. I have done less well on this, but an autumn request for this article provided a fruitful opportunity. Summers were usually a blur of all sorts of street games, especially football in days of no cars parked on my street. Nature took a back seat except for making dens in stacked hay, ‘dookin’ and ‘paidlin’ in the burn on hot days, and catching minnows or ‘beardies’ in bottles. A few rasps were picked but mostly missed, so short is their season and so busy we were. However, the return to school and shorter days brought more focus to our time. Reps from Delrosa went round the classes with sacks encouraging us all to gather ripe rosehips for their (delicious) rosehip syrup. The rewards were very worthwhile and would often amount to a tanner or even a shilling or two. Of course, rosehips and doghips were well known to us as ‘itchy pooders’, which have to be experienced to be believed. Essentially, the skins were peeled off and sometimes eaten, recalling apples, while the hairy seeds or ‘pooders’ were deployed behind the shirt collar of some poor unsuspecting pal. Frantic removal of shirts and ‘pooders’ ensued. Pea shooters were also employed around this time, though I don’t recall peas ever being used, but rather rowan berries shot through the hollow stalks of umbellifers, with strips of plastic insulating tape forming mouthpieces for the lucky ones who could procure these. Playgrounds and public spaces were littered with rowan berries and rosehip skins, with some, for shame, even finding their way into school corridors. The bramble and nut seasons followed closely, with whole families involved in the former. Bramble jeely was a standard in school play-and-pit-pieces, and indeed on homemade scones. A few of the avant-garde dabbled with bramble and elderberry winemaking and indeed this was annual in the café-owning Italian families. To avoid disappointment, most nuts were gathered too early, unripe green husks discarded along the way, but for those who knew a secluded hazel shaw the extra wait was worthwhile. Chestnuts or ‘chessies’ - ‘conkers’ down south - were scarce and generally very wee in my boyhood upland parish of New Cumnock. were exotic and unheard of – were from certain farm fields. As the date approached word spread around the school as to just where the biggest and best were to be found, with accompanying tales of irate farmers and narrow escapes. My most memorable and narrowest escape happened as a small group of us returned through a ‘tumshie’ field from Knockshinnoch Lagoons with armfuls of bulrushes (reedmace) for vase decorations, together with several huge ‘tumshies’. We were spotted by the farmer – a noted livewire – who stopped on the road as we left his field. He was raging and ordered us all into the back of his vehicle, including my mongrel dog, Dusky. I was first in and slipped across the back seat, opened the far door and jumped out with the dog. We were soon over a dyke and running across the burn to the scheme and safety. I was glad I did because the other three and another dog were taken directly to the police station, which was closed and so they were all locked up in a dark farm shed for an hour or two. This would have completely freaked me out, and still does a bit on recollection. I can’t remember if the police came to our door on that occasion or not, though I would have regretted it if they had. By Hallowe’en, of course, street bonfires were already constructed in anticipation of Guy Fawkes’ night. Some were huge and often had internal chambers or dens where sentries could spend time guarding against thieves of combustibles, or even those who would ignite a neighbouring street’s pile. So, into November and bonfires ebbed, flowed and burned as the feuds developed. Mostly, no real harm was done beyond an early fire, but I do remember one near tragedy when a bonfire was prematurely lit with several unaware sentries in an internal den of breadboards, and it was always a relief to see the street’s labours and pride win through to the 5th, when interstreet harmony was restored. Thus, these autumn months and their natural products were enmeshed in our youthful lives and that connection with the natural world – the real world – was instilled in us all. Every passing week sees something new in nature and, whilst we didn’t see it all, we saw enough to celebrate in our games and pass-times that lit a passion in our eyes and a glow in our dreams. Chris Rollie ...these autumn months and their natural products were enmeshed in our youthful lives and that connection with the natural world – the real world – was instilled in us all. Nevertheless, we tried and a ‘drookin’ in vinegar was one of the common tricks employed to secure a hardened ‘bully’ three of four, though I’m not sure it ever really made much difference. One or two lucky ones were somehow able to cross the border to Drumlanrig in Dumfriesshire, where the legendary ‘chessies’ were reputedly like apples. Gooseberries or ‘gudjucks’ as we knew them had already been plundered and during these earlier forays the plum and apple crops in the few walled gardens were noted for later. Owners were aware of this, of course, and successful raids had to be planned with cunning and precision, in contrast to the wild back garden raids around the housing scheme where I was born and grew up. Strawberries were early, scarce and usually too close to the houses to risk, and so it was that ‘tumshies’ (turnips) were the standard loot. Although I revelled in the thrill of the chase, I never really warmed to their raw taste and texture, though some of the more adventurous growers had sweet snowball ‘tumshies’ and they were just about palatable. The biggest and best ‘tumshies’ for Hallowe’en lanterns – pumpkins Glenkens Gazette page 20 Protecting the Hearts of Our Communities Here in the Glenkens and neighbouring communities, our hearts are being better protected thanks to the Loch Ken Trust (LKT). The LKT has funded new publicly accessible defibrillators and heated boxes in which to house them to six Loch Ken communities, as part of their ‘Protecting Our Heart’ project. The project is part of the Loch Ken Plan, which aims to make Loch Ken the world’s first ‘Future Ready Community’. In a rural area like ours the wait time for an ambulance can be lengthy, and the survival rates for heart attacks are lower than the national average. Since we are unlikely to see extra ambulances in the area, the Trust decided to expand the network of existing defibrillators to provide better coverage. There are now defibrillators in installed at Forrest Estate, Dundeugh, Glenlochar, Clarebrand, New Galloway, Crossmichael and Mossdale. The project was funded by a grant secured from the National Lottery’s Awards For All programme and supported by the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership Scheme. LKT officer, Barney Fryer, said: "This is a hugely important project for us at the Loch Ken Trust as it is all about looking after the health and wellbeing of the people in our communities." Sharon Fishwick, of Dundeugh, said: "The residents of Dundeugh have been trying to get a defibrillator installed in our remote village for years. We would like to thank the Loch Ken Trust for their continued support as we take ownership of our defibrillator." Please watch this space for details of cardiac training which will be available in the near future. To find out more about the work of the Loch Ken Trust please visit www. Lochken.org.uk Pictured above: Loch Ken Trust Officer Barney Fryer with Dundeugh residents Sharon Fishwick and D Aitken, alongside the newly-installed defibrillator at Dundeugh. Harvest Festival Speech 2072 Dear People, it’s my turn to welcome you to our Glenkens Harvest Feast. You’ve all contributed to this spread. There are some new faces since last year. A few have just come into this world and probably aren’t listening. Others have taken a long, difficult road to reach us at last. Welcome, all of you! Some friends are gone since last year. We miss them all. We’ll pause while I read their names… Nothing’s certain. We’ve known hunger. We’ve known danger. We’ve lost people we love. When the signal’s live we hear similar, or worse, stories from across the world. We’ll never meet those others, but we stand in solidarity with them all. Together we live frugally and work hard, but today is our autumn feast. Everyone can eat their fill. Everyone deserves thanks. Let’s remember who made all this possible: You hill farmers who know this land like the back of your hands, who care for the herds who roam our hills. If it wasn’t for you we wouldn’t only be hungry; we wouldn’t know the sound of a curlew, a lapwing or a black grouse. All of you who protect our woods and wetlands. Look at the wild harvest in all its glorious colour spread out before us. Think of the trees that sprang from seeds which stayed hidden in the soil through the worst of times. You farmers, fishers, growers and foragers who look after our meadows, lochs and rivers and who brought in this delicious food today - just smell that barbecue - don’t worry - only a few words to go now... You brave souls who’ve made it here from lands destroyed by drought and floods, or devastated by war. Without your skills and hard work we wouldn’t be here today. Above all, we thank those who made the change, way back in the 2020s. The ones who refused to let our good earth vanish under sitka spruce. Who protested against the cow factories, the flattened fields, the lost woodlands, the lakes of slurry and poisoned water courses. Who dared insist that the land belongs to those who live on it. Who ensured that against all the odds we would cherish our soil, our trees and flowers, our birds and insects and animals, all these beings who came here as the ice melted and whose rightful home this has been for twelve thousand years. Who believed that vibrant communities, healthy farms and other-than-human lives mattered more than any money ever minted. If it wasn’t for those courageous people - those honoured ancestors of all of us, wherever we were born - we wouldn’t be here today. They knew that in a dangerous world food won’t fly your way forever. If they hadn’t stood up for our soil, our land and our people there’s no way we could survive here now. Therefore we remember them. They lived in an uneasy comfort we can’t begin to dream of, but they had the wit to think of us. So raise your beakers and let’s drink to the brave rebels of the 2020s! MNE From the Bookroom Glenkens Gazette page 21 In the summer I walk about in the garden, or up and down the hills, but in the winter I board my mind’s vessel and set out through the surging pages of books. Books in grim wintertime serve as both Vitamin D and a passage to other worlds. The colder the weather, the darker the days, the warmer and brighter I like my books. So this year, as the solstice approaches, I’ve pulled a present off the shelf I’ve had stored up for over a decade. That is, By the Sea, a novel by Abdulrazak Gurnah. It throws me through time and space, linking me first to where I was when I acquired the book. That is, Palestine, a hotel in east Jerusalem to be precise, in spring 2009. I was there for ‘Palfest’, the Palestine Festival of Literature, in the company of several wonderful writers, including Abdulrazak, who has since won the Nobel Prize for Literature. The hills of the West Bank, like the rest of the Levant, experience bracing cold in the winters. It snows as much there as it does in Galloway. Fortunately, therefore, this novel links me also to Oman, on the Tropic of Cancer, where I lived for five years. Not that the novel is set in Oman. It’s set mainly in Zanzibar, on Africa’s east coast, but Zanzibar was once – from the late 17th Century to the 1960s – the capital of the Omani Empire. Based first on slaves, then on cloves, the empire was rooted in the monsoon trade winds which blow east to west in the last months of the year, across the Indian Ocean to Africa, and then west to east in the early months of the new year, from Africa to the Arabian Gulf, Iran and India. (The English word monsoon derives from the Arabic word for season – ‘mousem’.) In Zanzibar and similar ports a new culture was made from the mixing of several. The language – Swahili – encapsulates it: Bantu in structure, Arabic, Persian and Bantu in vocabulary. There were plenty of Swahili speakers in Oman – a bright, hot, very friendly country, blessed with blue skies, blazing smiles, giant Connecting in Communities (CiC) is keen to get the word out about two new groups which have just been launched. ‘Menopause Really Matters’ is a friendly group which meets monthly, with the aim to create an environment in which members can nurture and support each other in a safe space, where people can talk and improve their quality of life. We will also be inviting guest speakers each month to provide relevant information and advice. Our first meeting was warmly received and hugely enjoyed. One attendee said; “It was wonderful to be in a welcoming environment to meet, talk and laugh with new friends about shared experiences.” If you would like to come along, contact either lesley@ thenourishingspace.co.uk or jo@ catstrand.com or call 01644 420 374 to book in or find out more. CiC is also excited about a new 'From the Bookroom' is a new section where Glenkens-based author, Robin Yassin-Kassab, will take readers on a journey through some of his favourite books. Robin is author of the novel The Road From Damascus and co-author of Burning Country: Syrians in Revolution and War. In the summer I spend every spare moment outside, but in the winter I retreat to my bookroom, light a fire, and generate some verbal heat. turtles, and frankincense trees. It’s impossible to sum up By the Sea in a few sentences without doing it an injustice. Instead, I suggest you explore for yourselves this complex family drama teased out in retrospective conversation between migrants. It’s a tale of memory and loss, of love and arbitrary injustice, of imprisonment and exile. And it dances continually between worlds, from the east African coast to the chilly southern English seaside. So these are two extra locations to hold in my mind – alongside Jerusalem, Palestine; Muscat, Oman; and the Glenkens, Galloway – as I sail this bookroom towards the light, towards the lengthening days of a coming new year… Robin Yassin-Kassab Illustration of Robin speaking at an event by artist and author Molly Crabapple. Community Drama Club which will launch in February 2023, and we are keen to hear from anyone aged 18+ who would be interested in performing and/or supporting, with a view to working on productions to be performed around the region. If you want to return to an interest in theatre, or to newly unleash your inner thespian, please get in touch to find out more about this exciting new community group which is free and open to all. The cntact person is Jo at jo@catstrand.com or 01644 420 374. CiC are most grateful to funders Blackcraig Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund, administered by the Glenkens and District Trust and Foundation Scotland, and the National Lottery, whose contributions help make all our activities possible. Jo Jackson, CiC Activity Officer Glenkens Gazette Christmas in New Galloway Everyone from across the Glenkens is invited to New Galloway's Christmas celebrations. The Christmas lights parade, led by piper Ian Wemyss, will begin at New Galloway Golf Club car park and make its way down the High Street at 5pm. Please arrive at the car park by 4.40pm, where there will be hot chocolate and mince pies to keep you warm while you listen to carols by Kells school pupils (children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult). In anticipation of the parade, please could High Street residents have your outdoor Christmas lights switched on by 5pm on Sunday 4 December. If you need assistance putting your lights up do get in touch on 07766 476 125 or email communityinclusion.ling@ gmail.com - thank you! For more on New Galloway's Christmas celebrations there will be a brochure available from the end of November. We would like to thank all volunteers and supporting organisations who have helped to provide this year's New Galloway Christmas celebrations. Let the festive fun begin! Angie Bradford, LING Community Events & Activity inclusion Manager page 22 Urr Valley Garden Club The Urr Valley Garden Club reconvened in April, after a two year pause, and have so far enjoyed an illustrative talk covering the history of Threave, a visit to The Lost Gardens of Arbigland and also a visit to Luckie Hargs garden in Bainbridge. From October through to March monthly meetings are held at Haugh of Urr Village Hall on the third Thursday of the month at 2pm. The Winter Programme for 2022/23 is as follows: • Thursday 15 December: Christmas Capers • Thursday 19 January: My expedition to Vietnam, by Richard Baines, Curator at Logan Botanic Gardens • Thursday 16 February: An illustrated talk on Alipine Plants, by David Lawson • Thursday 16 March: An illustrated/practical talk on Propagation, by Nadine Stotten-Thom, Garden Instructor from Threave • AGM Thursday 20 April: AGM followed by Garden Design with Owen Harlow, formerly of Threave Annual Membership remains at £10; subscriptions run from 1 April to 31 March. The guest fee is £3 per person. New members are always welcome; if you are interested please contact 07977 050 971 or 07971 105 626. Glenkens Gazette page 23 ...News from the Banks of Loch Ken... Protecting our planet is very important to The Loch Ken Trust. In order to make our planet better we have to know where we are right now. Our Baseline Ecosystem Assessment project forms a key part of the Loch Ken Plan. We will be hosting a range of activities over the year ahead to really understand the state of the ecosystem that is Loch Ken. Loch Ken and the surrounding area is a paradise for wildlife watchers. It’s a colourful place – look out for red squirrels amongst the trees and red deer silhouetted on the skyline. The loch is home to a wintering flock of Greenland white-fronted geese. This population represents one of only a handful of wintering flocks on mainland Scotland. Also frequenting the loch are otters, red kites and ospreys. The activities will range from professional scientific studies, through to bio-blitzes and other forms of ‘citizen science’. We will also be hosting visits from schools across the region and higher/further education students. One of our objectives is to produce a short-list of ‘priority’ species, across air, land and water that we can track as a proxy for overall ecosystem health. Salmon, for example, are a great indicator of overall ecosystem health. ‘Be Respectful of the environment and leave no trace’ A significant area of the loch is designated a Special Protection Area for this species - the highest level of protection awarded to birds in Europe. These species will form the basis for a programme of ongoing scientific monitoring for The Loch Ken Trust and the wider community. They will also guide the work of the Loch Ken Ranger service to protect, restore and improve our environment. PROTECTING OUR NATURAL WORLD Our natural environment is under pressure like never before in human history. Whether it is the effect of climate change, or the growing biodiversity crisis, it has never been more important to understand what is going on in our ecosystem and to conserve, protect and restore our natural habitats. GET INVOLVED... We would love YOU to be involved in this project! Is there a particular area that interests you? Please get in touch lktoffice@protonmail.com we'd love to hear from you! Photographs © Ken Scott Glenkens Gazette page 24 Dear Gazette, I captured this image of the Remembrance Day one-minute silence at New Galloway war memorial. It reminded me of something out of a Thomas Hardy or Brontë novel… Ros Music for Midwinter As we head into the depths of winter, SongWave community choir will bring you songs from many lands An added attraction in the evening and traditions that bring Hall. performance will be the Dumfries & Galloway Clarsach Society led by Wendy warmth and heart to PRESS RELEASE Stewart. the season. From Shchedryk, a Twelfth For immediate release chance to join in too! Taking into account the current financial constraints on many people, tickets Music for Midwinter Joyous and upli5ing songs and readings for the darkest Under musical director Kate Howard night carol from the Ukraine, to Laula, are priced at ‘pay what you feel’ with a the choir will be performing two part a oflullaby the year. from Estonia; from Arise and minimum of £5. concerts in the Glenkens on Saturday Hail, an English West Gallery carol, to To find out more and be kept up17 December; at 3pm they will be in As weIn head into the depths of winter, community choir will bring you songs fromvisit www. Freenship’s Name, fromSongWave the singing to-date with future events Crossmichael Church and at 7.30pm many of lands tradi;ons that bringWillie warmth and heart to the season. theand Border Shepherd Scott, songwavechoir.org.uk they will be in Kirkpatrick Durham Village there’s something for everyone and a Under musical director Kate Howard we will be performing two concerts in the Glenkens on Saturday December 17th. At 3.00 we will be in Crossmichael Church and later in the day, at 7.30, the loca;on will be Kirkpatrick Durham Village Hall. An added aIrac;on in the evening will be the Dumfries and Galloway Clarsach Society led by Wendy Stewart. Photo of the Issue From Shchedryk, a TwelLh night carol from the Ukraine, to Laula, a lullaby from Estonia; from Arise and Hail, an English West Gallery carol, to In Freenship’s Name, from the singing of the Border Shepherd Willie ScoI, there’s something for everyone and a chance to join in too! ...Sponsored by the Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Co... Taking into account the current Þnancial constraints on many people tickets are priced at ‘Pay what you feel’ with a minimum of £5. This issue’s winner is Andrew McCluckie with a striking shot of his collie dog, Jasper, paddling under the Loch Stroan viaduct. To be kept up-to-date with future events, sign up for our newsletter and find out how to book tickets for these concerts visit the website www.songwavechoir.org.uk Ends For further information please contact: Cath Ingham at mamacath@me.com phone 07763124001 Andrew wins two portions of mac 'n' cheese from our competition sponsors, the Balmaclellan-based Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Co. Company owner and competition judge, Hannah Gould, said: "What a shot! The composition is lovely, with the circular frame highlighting the dog. We felt it was just right for the season - reflections of a crisp autumn/winter day in the Glenkens." To enter you can send in any photograph taken in the Glenkens to glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 25 Connecting in Communities December 2022/ January 2023 Activity Programme ARTistry - Life Drawing Classes Thursdays - Dec 1st, 8th & 15th / Jan 12th, 19th, 26th 10am-12.30pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan - £7.50 Contact: Leto Seferiades letosef@gmail.com 07763 235888 Glenkens Pub Quiz Nights Sunday Dec 11th | 7pm The Clachan Inn Dalry Thursday Jan 12th | 7pm The Ken Bridge Teams of 4/6 - £1 per person Contact: Chris Jowsey on necjj00@btinternet.com 07925 914681 Chair Yoga Fridays - Dec 2nd, 9th & 16th / Jan 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th 2pm-3pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan By donation, suggested £5 Suitable for beginners, gentle introduction to physical and mental benefits. Contact: Kath on kathry64@hotmail.co.uk 07720 949430 Boccia Club Wednesdays - Dec 14th & 11th Jan | 2pm-3pm Catstrand FREE Indoor Boules in the CatStrand Auditorium An inclusive afternoon of fun indoor bowling, suitable for all abilities, all welcome Contact: jo@catstrand.com Call 01644 420374 Menopause Really Matters Mondays - Dec 5th & Jan 9th |7pm - 8pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan. A supportive & informative group. Advice, guest speakers and friendly network guaranteed. Donations to ‘The Menopause Charity.org’ Contact: Lesley Atkins lesley@thenourishingspace.co.uk 07587 122151 Open Mic Night Thursdays - Dec 15th & Jan 12th 7.30pm-10pm CatStrand Performers free / Audience - £5 includes a tot of whisky on arrival for Dutch Courage! Or Mulled Spiced Apple Juice. Contact: Alan McClure alanmcclure70@hotmail.com Art For Wellbeing Mondays & Tuesdays - Dec 5th, 6th, 12th, & 13th / Jan 9th, 10th 16th, 17th, 23rd, 24th, 30th & 31st By donation for art materials Mondays | 1.30pm-3pm Crossmichael Memorial Hall Tuesdays | 10.30am-12pm Dalry Town Hall, Tuesdays | 1pm-2.30pm Kirkpatrick Durham Village Hall Tuesdays | 2pm-3.30pm Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn Contact: jo@catstrand.com / 01644 420374 Glenkens Ukes (Ukuele Workshops) Wednesdays - Dec 7th & 14th / Jan 4th, 11th, 18th 25th 6.30pm-8pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan - £3.00 Dec 14th FREE Festive Sing A Long | 7pm-9pm Contact: Brian Jones on briantjjones@gmail.com 07760 884113 Photography in Focus Tuesdays - Dec 6th, 13th Jan 10th, 17th, 24th & 31st | 10am-12pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan plus ‘out in the field’ Expert tuition to bring your photography knowledge and skills into focus. Contact: ianbiggar@btinternet.com 07799 372052 LGBTQI + Film Night in association with SAFE SPACE CAFÉ ‘Carol’ Saturday - Dec 17th | 7pm ‘Tangerine’ Saturday Jan 14th | 7pm CatStrand, New Galloway £6 / U 26 £4 After film drinks, snacks and chats in the CatStrand Café All welcome Contact: jo@catstrand.com / 01644 420374 Pudding Fan Club Monday - Dec 19th | 6.30pm-8.30pm CatStrand Café FREE EVENT Please bring along your favourite flavoursome Autumnal style pudding, share flavours and recipes. (or just come to enjoy the puds on offer) Contact: jo@catstrand.com / 01644 420374 Afternoon Tea and Table Top Games with Fabby Cakes Thursday 26th Jan | 2.30pm-4.00pm Dalry Town Hall. All welcome to share warm welcoming space, hot drink, delicious cakes and fun games! Contact: jo@catstrand.com / 01644 420374 All bookings through email: jo@catstrand.com or call 01644 420374 Visit: www.gcat.scot/CiCActivityProgramme unless otherwise specified If you have any ideas of what activities you would like to see happening in your community, please do get in touch and we will do our best to make them happen! Contact jo@catstrand.com or call 01644 420374 Glenkens Gazette page 26 Youth Players Xmas Panto It’s panto time again... oh yes it is! CatStrand Youth Players, supported by a few of the older members, have been working hard at rehearsals since September to bring this year’s panto to the stage. Our behind-the-scenes crew have also been busy making scenery and props. The cast and crew have had great fun working on Sinbad Sails Again, a brand new script by our favourite author Paul Reakes and everyone is proud that the shows on Friday 9, Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 December will be the world premiere production (see Diary on p30). The story incorporates a few familiar characters and starts in Aladdin’s palace one year after his wedding to his princess. Abanazer is still in exile on a desert island and as Sinbad returns from his latest voyage he is immediately recruited to help Aladdin find his famous magic lamp which gets stolen by some mysterious characters who trick their way into the palace. The usual songs, mayhem and laughter ensue as the baddies are pursued around the world. Could there be a happy ending? You’ll just have to come along to find out! At the time of going to press, tickets were selling very fast but there might still be a few left if you are lucky... The principal roles in the panto feature Megan Oliver as Sinbad the Sailor, Fiona Edgar as Aladdin, Ella Campbell as Zara, Lorne Johnstone as Jasmine, Ruby Harfield as Semolina Sinbad, Dante Newbery as Ali Sinbad, Laura Edington as Abanazer and James Wallace as Crossbones the Pirate. As soon as Sinbad has sailed again it will be straight into rehearsing for the 2023 Youth Drama Festival with the aim of repeating the successful run to the Scottish Final earlier this year. We’ll have more news on that in the next edition. The Youth Players Come and Help Us Shape Community Activity Across the Glenkens and District You are cordially invited to a gathering of valued partners and friends of ‘Connecting in Communities’   Monday 5th December sessions at 4–5:30pm and 7–8:30pm Balmaclellan Village Hall As the current round of funding for Connecting in Communities nears its conclusion, we’d love to hear the views and aspirations of residents and organisations about the future of community development in the Glenkens into 2023 and beyond.   Come along for a glass of mulled wine or spiced apple juice and share your knowledge, experiences and ideas with us! Please RSVP advising on your attendance and at which session to: lisa@catstrand.com or 01644 420374 or call into the Catstrand, New Galloway A D TIMBER SEASONED FIREWOOD FOR SALE HARDWOOD SOFTWOOD KINDLING LOCAL DELIVERY 07884262533 07787416460 Glenkens Gazette page 27 Glenkens Treasures * Paul goodwin * In the last issue, we announced a new section – Glenkens Treasures - where we can celebrate the many people in our communities who go 'above and beyone' in helping others. We are delighted that the first Glenkens Treasure nomination is Paul Goodwin. Paul is well known to Gazette readers due to all his work with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, with regular Gazette contributions on the wars, war memorials and plane crashes in the Glenkens. Paul has also taken some of the stories of local servicemen and women to our schools as well as to the wider public. Paul volunteered at Dalry School for years, offering his skills in IT and running after-school clubs for students. More recently, Paul volunteered to host a Ukrainian family and has gone ‘above and beyond’ in helping them, and other Ukrainians living locally, settle into the community. Congratulations to Paul, and thank you for all your kindness to others. Please get in touch if you have someone to nominate for our Glenkens Treasure section; tell us who you would nominate, and why, giving your own name and contact details, and we'll be in touch. You can email glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk or drop written nominations in to the CatStrand, marked Glenkens Treasures. Woodland Apprentice Carsphairn Community Woodland’s apprentice is supporting all aspects of forestry work at Muirdrochwood Forest. The community took ownership of the woodland in March 2021. This change in ownership, enabling the community to reshape the woodland to benefit all, ties into a broader ambition for the woodland to support local jobs and training opportunities. The first training role is underway, with Phoenix Lord part-way through his pre-apprentice position, working on a variety of forestry management tasks around the site. Phoenix joined Carsphairn Community Woodland in June following a sixweek forestry work experience at the woodland, in conjunction with Tarff Valley and has been working on a whole range of activities through the summer. His contract runs until December 2022. Phoenix said: “I have enjoyed my experience at Carsphairn Community Woodland. I have learned a lot of valuable skills which is a great advantage for my future as I continue my forestry career.’’ Phoenix is being managed day-to-day by Andy, the Muirdrochwood Forestry Supervisor and Mentor. Andy said: “Phoenix has shown a keen interest in all aspects of forestry activities and also flora and fauna. In the woodland he has been a great help, tackling all tasks put in front of him and he has come on a lot in his time here. I have no doubt he will be a great asset wherever he goes next.” Carsphairn Community Woodland see the use of the site as a focus for local jobs and skills training as a vital part of the organisation’s work. Phoenix’s Six-Month role is being funded in partnership between Carsphairn Community Woodland and the Galloway Glens Scheme, using their award from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Jan Hogarth, the Galloway Glens Education & Community Engagement Officer, added: “One of the main aims of the Galloway Glens Scheme is to encourage and support the next generation to be able to plan their working lives here in Galloway. The efforts of the volunteers at Carsphairn Community Woodland are already yielding real work experience and training opportunities, congratulations to all involved.” For anyone planning a visit to the woodland, the Muirdrochwood Forest car park is on the B729 near the High Bridge of Ken junction (postcode DG7 3TD), and the ‘what three words’ location for the site is remit.breed.chestnuts. For more information about the wider Muirdrochwood Forest site follow Carsphairn Community Woodland on Facebook or visit www.carsphairn/CCWL or email carsphairncw@gmail.com Glenkens Gazette page 28 Meeting Our Glenkens Councillors Dougie Campbell, Independent I was privileged to be re-elected as your councillor in May and I’m really looking forward to continuing to represent and support the Glenkens community. It’s fair to say, however, that we have some significant challenges ahead of us, due to factors such as Brexit, recovery from Covid and now of course, the cost of living crisis which is impacting on us all. Following the election, the first task for our newly-elected councillors was to form an administration to oversee continued delivery of vital services such as waste collection, roads maintenance and social work services. I joined a new group of seven independent councillors from across the region and, without our collective support, none of the major political parties would have been able to form a majority administration. After a period of negotiations with all parties, the new Independent Group agreed to form an administration with Labour and SNP colleagues. This new administration, described by the media as a ‘Rainbow Alliance’, has adopted a very different approach to that of the last five years, which means Council plans for the next five years, including annual budgets and spending programmes will be developed with the participation of all councillors. It’s a new way of doing business, but it was selfevident that we all recognised that the cost of living crisis will be the defining issue for the Council over the course of the difficult years ahead. I very much hope this collaborative approach will ensure we are in a stronger position to protect and modernise vital services. During my campaign to be elected as your independent councillor, I maintained that we needed to take party politics out of council decision making, always seeking to do the best for people living and working here. And, with the challenges ahead, I don’t think that’s ever been more important. I’ve taken on new responsibilities, and have been appointed Vice Chair of the Finance, Procurement & Transformation Committee and, Chair of Stewarty Area Committee, which means I’ll be closely involved in the decisions that directly affect the Glenkens. Although no longer Environment Champion, the Council has agreed that the environment should be every councillor’s priority and has re-established our Climate Emergency Cross Party Working Group. We recognise that the deteriorating Greetings from the Manse After the solemn drama of the start of November (All Saints’ Day, Bonfire Night, Remembrance) we have two weeks’ rest before…yes, you’ve guessed it...Advent! If you’re already sick of tinny carol music, jingly bells, corny TV adverts and garish displays everywhere, read on. It might just help you have the best Christmas ever... Would you like to hear the Christmas story more clearly; to have a real sparkle in your decorations; for your lights to push back the mid-winter darkness? It has been said that failing to plan is planning to fail. With Christmas, failing to prepare will strip the hope, peace, joy and love from the celebrations and ruin the New Year to come. So it’s time to start getting ready. That’s what Advent is about. We are reminded of the truth behind the festival. Advent enriches Christmas by allowing us to seek God’s Hope, Peace, Joy and Love in our lives so that they can fill our celebrations as they filled the stable all those years ago. In our worship and reflections we will be revising what we already know – that Jesus gave up everything to come into this world to show us true Hope, true Peace, true Joy and true Love. The familiar words of carols and readings become clearer above the jingly bells. The candles outshine the tinsel. The dirty, smelly stable out-sparkles the tinsel. The gifts we give carry more value. The lights push back the darkness like never before! This Advent, join us on the great Adventure (see what I did there?!) into Christmas ... and beyond! Whatever form your celebrations take – carol-singing, mad light displays, panto, giving gifts, Christingle, over-indulging in food and drink, opening presents on the big day, etc – enjoy them. What we celebrate is amazing...awesome...lifechanging! May God Bless you at this Blessed time of year. Rev Mark RS Smith, Interim church moderator for the parishes of Balmaclellan, Kells, Dalry and Carsphairn condition of our roads and public transport in Dumfries & Galloway are issues people are concerned about, and we’ve asked council officers to draw up proposals to address these challenges. I’ll update you on this in subsequent issues of the Glenkens Gazette. As always, my priority as your local councillor will be to support the Glenkens. We’ve come through the Covid pandemic which has been an incredibly difficult period for everyone, and I’m sure that the community spirit demonstrated throughout will again hold us in good stead for the challenges ahead. If you want to speak to me about any council related issue I can be contacted at dougie.campbell@dumgal.gov.uk or 07388 956 558. LOST ITEM By mistake I gave away a miniature painting on an easel - about two inches high - to the Dalry charity shop. Did you by chance buy it from the shop in April? I would dearly love to have it back as it was painted by a relative. If you could return it, I would happily provide a reward and my undying thanks! Paul, 07973 174 342 LING Trustees, along with employees Angie and Ronnie Bradford, Olivia Donaldson and Claire Dean, would like to wish all LING members, volunteers, friends and families and the whole of the Glenkens community a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New year! page 29 WINDY STANDARD WIND FARM AN UPDATE We are pleased to be moving forward with our plans to repower the first phase of Windy Standard Wind Farm, which would see the removal of 36 turbines and eight turbines up to 200m to tip erected in their place. It is expected that we will submit our proposals to the Scottish Government in the very near future. Upon submission everyone will have the opportunity to comment on the proposals. Further information will be available at www.windystandardwindfarm.co.uk If consented, our proposals will bring forward many benefits, including: • Delivering sustainable and creative uses for decommissioned materials in the region, creating local jobs and supporting a circular economy • Supporting the training of wind turbine technicians in Dumfries & Galloway • Providing over £8m in community benefit throughout the lifespan of the project • Generating 49MW of clean electricity We will notify local residents and stakeholders when our plans are submitted. In the meantime, please do keep in touch at www.windystandardwindfarm.co.uk / communities@fredolsen.com / 07435 763 900. Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP Solicitors and Estate Agents Dumfries & Galloway 01556 503744 www.ggblaw.co.uk All legal advice Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie Kirkcudbright and Dumfries Advertisement Glenkens Gazette Glenkens Gazette GCAT Needs You! The Glenkens Community and Arts Trust AGM is coming up in the New Year, and we are seeking nominations for three new Trustees. If you appreciate the work that we do, whether its our Arts programme, CatStrand Young Creatives, Connecting in Communities, Galloway Community Transport, the Glenkens Gazette or the Community Action Plan, consider joining our Board. It’s a friendly group that meets every two months to provide strategic oversight and good governance for our ever-evolving organisation. You don’t need any particular skill sets other than the commitment to think hard about what GCAT needs and how you could help – although this time, we are looking particularly for people with an interest in numbers and spreadsheets! But we need Get into the Christmas Spirit Singing popular Christmas carols, and listening to traditional readings, is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit by reminding us of the simple joy of the Christmas story. On Sunday 18 December, at 6pm, St Margaret’s Church in New Galloway are holding their Carol Service to which all members of the community, and any visitors, are welcome. Following the service, the St Margaret’s Guild will be serving mulled wine, and spiced apple ale (nonalcoholic) as well as a selection of festive nibbles. page 30 three new people, so do apply if you have more general skills. If you’re interested getting right to the heart of the community in this voluntary role, contact Helen Keron for an informal chat on helen@catstrand.com by 18 December. Looking forward to hearing from you! Helen Keron, Executive Manager McMillan Fundraiser The Macmillan Coffee Afternoon held at Hair by Jayne raised an amazing £820. "There was a great turnout! Next year we will hold it in the Town Hall so folk can stay and chat," says Jayne, continuing; "I would like to share the thanks we received from the Macmillan donations team; a lovely letter, thanking everyone involved for their support." There will be a Christmas bake stall outside Jayne's salon on Monday 5 and Tuesday 6 December where funds raised will go to Dalry Film Club. Glenkens Gazette page 31 Join the CatStrand Boccia Club Connecting in Communities (CiC) have started a Boccia Club once a month at the CatStrand. Boccia is an indoor boules activity which is accessible to all ages stages and abilities. The club meets on the second Wednesday of the month from 2-3pm, with a post-game cuppa and cake afterwards in the CatStrand café. Jon, who approached CiC to introduce the idea of a Boccia Club to the Glenkens, Glass Recycling Points • Balmaclellan Stores, Balmaclellan • Memorial Hall, St Michael's Road, Crossmichael • Kirkland Street, St John's Town of Dalry • New Galloway, Carson's Knowe Car Park • St David Street, Kirkpatrick Durham ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) explains: “Everyone is most welcome - all abilities, no barriers. Come and join us to have a lovely sociable afternoon playing boccia.” CiC and Jon are hoping to build the activity into The Glenkens & District Boccia Club with opportunities to have inter village matches and tournaments. If you enjoy Boules, would like to make new friends and help us build our team, please contact Jo at jo@catstrand.com or call 01644 420 374 to find out more. Jo Jackson, CiC Activity Officer CROSSMICHAEL THERAPY CENTRE - Your Health is Important - Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is probably best known for its treatment of pain. However, they can be used to treat a broader variety of conditions, from achy joints to anxiety, skin troubles to insomnia, acupuncture could help change the way you manage some of life’s health challenges. Matthew Pajo has been studying and practising Chinese medicine for over 25 years and has attained a Bachelor Health Science and Master Applied Science in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. As a highly skilled and trusted clinician, Matthew uses safe, effective, and natural treatments that can bring relief from acute and chronic conditions. Matthew is a member of the British Acupuncture Federation and the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians. To make an appointment call 07786 079 845 or email info@matthewpajo.co.uk For more information visit www.matthewpajo.co.uk Psychological Therapy Amber Dunlop-Pajo has spent over 20 years working as a psychologist and has attained a Bachelor Psychology (Hons) and Master Psychology (Health) and is a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society. Amber specialises in Women’s Health as well as depression, stress, anxiety and has a focus on health psychology. SMALL: Contact Amber on 07389 713 106 or info@gallowaycounselling.co.uk For more information visit www.gallowaycounselling.co.uk 1/4 PAGE: Crossmichael Therapy Centre, The Old School, Crossmichael, DG7 3AP 6cm x 6cm, £50 9cm w x 13cm h, £108 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £200 FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £332 Please get in touch further details including small business/ charity rates and series discounts. Email glenkensgazette@ hotmail.co.uk or call/ WhatsApp 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 334 0905 24 THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS General Medical & Dispensing Services FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY The Surgery High Street New Galloway Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm Sat 2-2.30 pm Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm  01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS  FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 Glenkens Gazette The Community Kindness Cupboard outside Dalry Library has home baking in every Thursday. page 32 WHERE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB LISTINGS Dumfries & Galloway! What's Going on @DGWGO on Facebook; What's Going On Glenkens @WGOGlenkens on Facebook; Glenkens Gazette @GlenkensNews on Facebook – once on the page for any of these, use the search function to look for jobs. The Glenkens' largest employer, Natural Power Consultants Ltd, also have a jobs page - www.naturalpower.com/uk/careers KEY GLENKENS CONTACTS LOCAL DOCTORS’ SURGERY Glenkens Medical Practice - 01644 420 234 COMMUNITY CONTACTS • Balmaclellan: Martin Warnock 07939 261 391 • Carsphairn: Liz Holmes - 07718 358 160 • Corsock: Julie Garton - 07769 647 702 • Kirkpatrick Durham: Heather 07551 639 629 • Crossmichael: Richard Middleton - 01556 670 691 • Dalry: Graham West - 01644 430 503 • New Galloway: 07741 656 601 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 FOOD DELIVERIES • Galloway Foodbank - 07730 788 335 • Glenkens Food Hub - www. openfoodnetwork.org.uk/ glenkens-food-hub/shop • Ballards Butchers - 01556 502502 (they also deliver groceries) • Grierson’s Butchers: 01556 502 637 • Henderson’s Butchers: 01556 502 654 • Mitchell’s Greengrocers: 01556 502 077 • Fleet Fish: call 07966 103 912 to find out about Glenkens delivery days • Roan’s Dairy - 01556 620 374 LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Glenkens Community Shop: Contact Liz Lewis on 07530 804 217 or drop by the shop on Main Street, Dalry Glenkens Scout Group: Contact Heather McIntosh on 01644 420 375 Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact newgallowaytownhall@gmail.com Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail. com or 01644 430 521 Dalry Town Hall: Contact Lesley Blissett at lesleyblissett52@gmail.com Glenkens Community Centre: Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact ngce5000@gmail.com or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins at julia.higgins55@outlook.com CatStrand: Contact Fiona Limbrey at fiona@ catstrand.com or 01644 420 374 or pop in to the CatStrand Schools: Visit the school office or call Dalry Primary on 01644 430 105 (for Nursery/ELC too), Dalry Secondary on 01644 430 259 or Kells on 01644 420 340 Carsphairn Heritage Initiative: Contact Karen Hall at carsphairnhi@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie at mcnabb. laurie@dumgal.gov.uk If you would like to add your community organisation to this list please get in touch with the Gazette - contact details are on the back page. CHURCH TIMES CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sunday Services Balmaclellan: 11am - 4 Dec, 1 Jan Carsphairn: 11am - 11 Dec, 8 Jan Kells: 11am - 18 Dec, 15 Jan Dalry: 11am - 11am Dalry 25 Dec, 22 Jan Special Services Carols by Candlelight, Sun 18 6.30pm, Balmaclellan Church. Children's Christmas Party, Sat 17, 5pm Carsphairn Church. Watchnight Service, Sat 24, 11.30pm, Carsphairn Church. SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: St Margaret's Church, Kenbridge Road, New Galloway, DG7 3RP Sundays: 10.30am Sung Eucharist, followed by refreshments Christmas Services: Carol Service, Sunday 18 December, 6pm. Christmas Day - Sung Eucharist, 10.30am. Visitors welcome - for information, including directions, please see visit www.stmargaretsnewgalloway.org or call our vestry secretary, Christine Rankin, on 01644 420 259. Glenkens Gazette page 33 GALLOWAY COMMUNITY TRANSPORT www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org email gct@catstrand.com phone 01644 420374 mobile 07841 512449 December 2022 - January 2023 Regular Services GK2 Glenkens-Castle Douglas (Tesco) Wednesday Evenings (Registered Route) Out Return 19:00 Dalry (Underhill) 21:15 19:05 New Galloway 21:10 19:15 Mossdale 21:00 19:25 Laurieston 20:50 19:30 Townhead of Greenlaw 20:47 19:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 20:37 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:35 Booking not required Glenkens to Newton Stewart Fortnightly - Tuesday mornings Outward Pickups: Dalry (Underhill) 09:30 New Galloway (Town Hall) 09:35 CatStrand) 09:37 To Aldi Return Pickup Newton Stewart (Aldi Car Park) 11:30 Return fare £3.50 Advance booking required. Member Hire FREE BIKE WORKSHOPS IN DECEMBER AND JANUARY FOR ADULT LEARNERS BIKE FAMILIARISATION, SHORT LOCAL JOURNEYS AND CONFIDENCE BUILDING WORKSHOPS LEVEL 1: SATURDAY 3rd DECEMBER 10:00-11:00 GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE CAR PARK, NEW GALLOWAY SAFE TRAINING AWAY FROM THE ROAD * BIKE SAFETY CHECKS * ROAD SAFETY TECHNIQUES * HELMETS AND EQUIPMENT ARE AVAILABLE TO BORROW LEVEL 2: SATURDAY 10TH DECEMBER 10:00-11:30 GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE CAR PARK, NEW GALLOWAY RECAP ON LEVEL 1 SESSION * SHORT LED RIDE AROUND NEW GALLOWAY LEVEL 3: SATURDAY 17TH DECEMBER 10:00-11:30 GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE CAR PARK, NEW GALLOWAY RECAPS ON LEVEL 1 & 2 SESSIONS * LED RIDE FROM NEW GALLOWAY TO DALRY JANUARY DATES: 7th / 14th / 21st FREE! ADVANCE BOOKING AND REGISTRATION IS ESSENTIAL. EMAIL: JON@CATSTRAND.COM OR CALL 07841 512449 IN PARTNERSHIP WITH GALLOWAY COMMUNITY TRANSPORT AND CYCLING UK GCT has 16-, 15-, and 8-seater minibuses and a fully wheelchair accessible electric car available for hire by community organisations. For information about membership and terms and conditions of hire see the GCT website or phone 07841 512449. Glenkens eBike Club If you are a local Glenkens resident and are interested in joining the Glenkens eBike Club please see our webpage: https://www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org/ebikes phone 07841 512449 or email jon@catstrand.com Drivers Needed Galloway Community Transport needs your help to provide a wide range of community transport services across the Stewartry and beyond. MINIBUS DRIVING Minibus drivers with D1 (101 or by test) are needed to do volunteer and paid driving for our wide range of member community groups. PATIENT TRANSPORT We also urgently need drivers with their own cars for our patient transport service. Our volunteer patient transport drivers receive a generous mileage reimbursement and the satisfaction of providing a vital service to vulnerable people in our communities. Interested? Email gct@catstrand.com or phone 07841 512449 Glenkens Gazette WHAT'S ON page 34 December/January DECEMBER See CiC programme on p25 runs until 9 Jan, Carsphairn Community Housing Survey, see p3 Thu 1 & Fri 2, CatStrand Christmas Shopping Nights & New Galloway Shop late night opening, 6-9pm, see p6 Fri 2, Song Share, 8-11pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 3, Community Café; 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 3, Christmas Craft Fair, 11am3pm, Mossdale Village Hall Sat 3, Zoë Bestel, Kate Kyle & Eilidh McGrath, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sun 4, New Galloway Christmas Lights Parade, 4.30pm Golf Club car park, see p22 Sun 4, Corsock Craft Fair, 11am3pm, Corsock Village Hall Mon 5, Connecting in Communities: Community Discussion, sessions at 4–5:30pm and 7–8:30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall, see p26 Tue 6, The Raven's Nest: kvöldvaka, 7pm, The Smiddy, Balmaclellan Tue 6, Art for Wellbeing, 10.30am12noon, Dalry Town Hall (continues on January 10,17,24 and 31) Wed 7, Glenkens Church Guild Coffee Morning, 9am -12noon, Dalry Town Hall Wed 7, Dalry Film Club: Sorry We Missed You, 7:30pm, Dalry Town Hall Thu 8, Ken Words- Glenkens Writer's' Cafe, 7pm, CatStrand Fri 9 & Sat 10, Panto: Sinbad Sails Again, 7:30pm, CatStrand Sat 10, Glenkens Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall Sun 11, Panto: Sinbad Sails Again, 2pm, CatStrand Sun 11, The Furrow Collective We Know By The Moon, 7.30pm, CatStrand Tue 13, The Raven's Nest: kvöldvaka, 7pm, CatStrand Wed 14, Passing Through, 7.30pm, CatStrand Thu 15, Open Mic Night with Alan McClure, 7.30pm, CatStrand Thu 15, Urr Valley Garden Club Talk: Christmas Capers, 2pm, Haugh of Urr Village Hall Sat 17, Songwave Choir: Music for Midwinter, 3pm at Crossmichael Church and 7.30pm at Kirkpatrick Durham Village Hall, see p24 Sat 17, LGBTQ+ Film Night, 7pm, CatStrand Sun 18, Carol Service, 6pm, St Margaret’s Church, New Galloway Sun 18, CatStrand Christmas Grotto, drop-in between 11am-3pm Wed 21, Dalry Film Club: Downton Abbey - A New Era, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Thu 22, Midwinter Ceilidh with Whirligig, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 31, Dalry Community Hogmanay Party, details tbc, Dalry Town Hall JANUARY Sat 7, Glenkens Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall Wed 11, Dalry Film Club: Our Ladies, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Thu 12, Ken Words- Glenkens Writer's' Café, 7-9pm, CatStrand Sat 14, LGBTQ+ Film Night: Tangerine, 7pm, CatStrand Thu 19, Urr Valley Garden Club Talk: 'My expedition to Vietnam' by Richard Baines, Curator at Logan Botanic Gardens, 2pm, Haugh of Urr Village Hall Sat 21, Community Café, 10am -1pm, Dalry Town Hall Sun 22, The Glenkens Story: On the Trail of a Good Story, 2-4pm, CatStrand, see p16 Sun 29, Clachan Folk Sessions, 5-7pm, The Clachan Inn, Dalry LING lunches are a community project, and are currently being served at Kitty’s, opposite the New Galloway Town Hall, from 12.30-2pm each Tuesday. Everyone in the Glenkens is very welcome - if you haven't got access to transport, why not give the public bus a go? It stops off at 12.30pm in New Galloway and leaves at 1.30pm; just enough time for you to meet, chat and eat! Glenkens Gazette page 35 REGULAR EVENTS Balmaclellan Village Hall: Tuesday Afternoon Teas, 1st Tues each month, to book email warburton. julie@googlemail.com Glenkens Crafters, Wed 10am12noon, for info contact julia. higgins55@outlook.com Youth Volunteers (age 11-16), Mon monthly, 5.30–7.30pm Balmaclellan, contact kathyr64@ hotmail.co.uk Scriptless Drama Club (age 11-19), Tue, 5.30–6.30pm Informal Family Badminton, (net and racquets but no line markings), New Galloway Town Hall, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Boccia Club, 2nd Wed of the month, 2-3pm Newton Stewart Bus Service to Tesco, Wednesday evenings A Chance to Dance, Thu bi-weekly, 6–8pm Books in Balmaclellan Community Library, Wed 10.30–12.30 & 5.307pm; Fri 5.30-7.30pm; Sat 10.30am -12.30pm (tea & coffee available on Sat). Dance Weekenders (age 12+), Sat monthly, 1–4pm Balmaclellan Blether, 3rd Thu each month, contact warburton.julie@ googlemail.com CatStrand Youth Players, meet weekly, contact briangm@catstrand.com Glenkens Art Workshop, Thu 2-4pm, contact t_leach1@sky.com Easiobics, Tue & Fri 9.30-10.30pm, contact mlfagan@live.co.uk Circuits, Sat 8-9am, contact John 07544 713 586 Kettelbells, Mon & Tue 6-7pm, contact John 07544 713 586 Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn: Carsphairn SWI, 3rd Thu of the month, 7.30pm,Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn Craft Group, Fri 10am-12noon, includes tea & coffee, Lagwyne Hall, contact carsphairncraftgroup@gmail.com Bairn Banter; family stay & play session, 0-7 years, Sat 10-11.45am, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn CatStrand, New Galloway: Margaret Morris Movement: Health Play (age 3-7), Mon (during term time), 3.45-4.30pm Margaret Morris Movement: Children’s Grades & Youth Dance (age 8-15), Mon (during term time), 4.30-5.30pm Art Explorers, Sat monthly, 10-11am (age 5–8) & 11.15am–12.30pm (age 8–12) New Galloway Town Hall: During ongoing works entry may be through the back door and some activities transferring elsewhere call 07749249781 to check. Men's Monday Morning Coffee, Mon 9.30-11am Glenkens Youth Activity Group, ages 11-19, Mon 7-8.30pm, currently held at Dalry School Gym Hall, contact Olivia on youthwork.ling@gmail.com or text 07719 708 668 LING Lunches, Tue, 12.30-2pm. currently held at Kitty's, opposite NG Town Hall, contact Angie on communityinclusion.LING@gmail.com Sports Evenings, indoor bowling & table tennis, Tues 7-9pm, drop in or contact Ray on 01644 420 438 Tai Chi, 10.30-11.30am, contact gentletaichigroup@gmail.com Zumba, Wed 7-8pm, contact samantha. rushton@hotmail.co.uk - booking essential Martial Arts, Thur 5.30-6.30pm (beginners & tots) & 7-9pm (age 6+), contact @Facebook KMANews or kmabrian@gmail.com Gentle Yoga, Fri, transferred to Dalry Library & Customer Service Centre Main Street, Dalry, Tel: 01644 430 234 or 01556 502 643 Tuesday: For books and other walk-in services: 2-5pm Friday: For NEC Bus Pass and Blue Badge appointments and PCs: 11.30am – 12.30pm; for books and other walk-in services: 1 -4.30pm. Appointments can be booked in the library or on 01387 260 196. Dalry Library: Random Writers (age 12+), Thu biweekly, 3.45–5pm Glenkens Book Group, last Friday of each month, 2pm, call June to book on 01644 420 361 Dalry Town Hall: Tai Chi, video-led instruction, Mon, 2-3pm, contact lesleyblissett52@gmail. com Dog Training, Tue, 7pm, contact Eric Broadhurst on 07831 590 822 Song Share, 1st Friday each month, 8-11pm, contact anne.chaurand@ btinternet.com Various: Crossmichael Heritage Centre, open Wed & Fri, 1.30-4.30pm Cub Scouts, Wed 6.15-7.30pm, Scout Hall, New Galloway Clachan Crafters, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, Thurs 2-4pm, contact 07500 861 041 or minimac01644@gmail.com Glenkens Community Shop, open Wed, Fri & Sat, 10am- 4pm Knockvennie Hall Heat Bank & Snooker Club, contact Andrew on 01556 690 677 Outdoor Bowls, Dalry, contact Fiona Ramsay on 01644 430 587 Table Tennis, (available 24/7), Dalry Snooker, (available 24/7), Dalry Indoor Bowls, (October to March), Dalry Badminton, (available 24/7), Dalry For details for table tennis, snooker, indoor bowls and badminton contact Gary Blissett on 01644 430 521. USEFUL NUMBERS: ● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000 ● Police, non-emergency: 101 ● Doctor: 01644 420 234 ● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24 ● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000 Glenkens Gazette page 36 Smithy Awarded Travellers' Choice Third Year Running The Smithy in New Galloway has been recognised by Tripadvisor as a Travellers’ Choice award winner for a third year running. The award celebrates businesses that have received great traveller reviews on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months and recognises those businesses whose reviews place them in the top 10% of restaurants worldwide. As challenging as the past year was for the hospitality trade, The Smithy stood out by consistently delivering positive experiences to their customers. Margaret and Andrew, owners of The Smithy, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have received this award as it is based on the positive feedback left by customers of both the food and service that they receive at The Smithy. "This has been a year where we have had to adapt and evolve to cope with the challenges that have come our way and it is pleasing that the changes have been well received by our customers. This award was made possible by the hard work of our staff and the great service and quality of produce that we receive from our suppliers. "Next year will be another challenging year for hospitality businesses and we thank all of our customers for their continued support. We would also like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year.” A proud Andrew and Margaret in their cafe with their 2022 Tripadvisor award. Launch of the Gazette Hub The Gazette is excited to announce that the Glenkens Communications Hub project, offering an online resource for news, events, information, history and much more, is nearly ready to go. This project was set in motion through the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust following-up on the need highlighted by Glenkens residents in the Community Action Plan, and has been enabled through funding from Blackcraig Wind Farm Fund and the Galloway Glens Scheme. In light of this, we are looking for a digital editor to work one day a week on maintaining the Gazette Hub and social media presence. This will initially be a year-long freelance post, but with a view to continuing longer-term. Please get in touch at glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk if this is something you would like to find out more about. And be ready for the next edition of the Gazette as it will have a fresh new face, aligning with its fresh new online presence! www.blairtempleton.com 07795170927 massagebt@outlook.com Blair Templeton Massage Practitioner @Facebook 19 Townhead Crescent, Dalry, DG7 3UR WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Editing & Design: sarah.ade@gmail.com FEB/MAR COPY DEADLINE: 5 JAN The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No SC032050 The role of the Gazette is to represent the voice of the community and does not represent the views of GCAT.  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 133 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_133 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource GCAT Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2022 Description An account of the resource Editor: Sarah Ade https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/279/GlenkensGazette132.pdf 31306dffe10605133bd182620dbd62ba Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 132 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Corsock, Crossmichael, Kirkpatrick Durham, Laurieston, Mossdale, New Galloway, Parton and St John’s Town of Dalry October/November 2022 ISSUE 132 FREE The Clachan Inn Cooks Up Culinary Excellence Award Dalry's Clachan Inn has been awarded the AA Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence 2021-22. The AA Rosette award scheme, introduced in 1956, was the first nationwide strategy for assessing the quality of food served in restaurants and hotels in the UK. The AA team of inspectors has a wealth of experience gleaned through visiting venues across the length and breadth of the country, so when an award is made, it carries a lot of weight. The Clachan is one of just seven establishments in south west Scotland to hold one of these prestigious awards and be recognised in the AA Guide, where it is ranked in fifth place (visit www.leadingrestaurants.co.uk/data/ best-restaurants/dumfries-and-galloway for more on this). Laura Burnie, who owns and runs the pub along with partner Phil Papworth, said: "It’s a really huge achievement that we are so proud of. We would like to give credit to our amazing and talented staff who work alongside us and without whom we wouldn't be where we are today. "The award has been a very welcome boost after having had to navigate our way through two years of the pandemic, which in this The Clachan Inn Kitchen Team - from left to right are Jim industry has been challenging to Banner, Phil Papworth, Martin Templeton, say the least! We Xander Foster and Robbie Thomson. were hugely wellsupported by our are just so pleased to still be able to local communities and beyond when all be here on the other side of it all doing we were able to offer were takeaways, what we love!" for which we are really grateful, and we KEN BRIDGE BICENTENARY The bicentenary of the Ken Bridge was marked in style, starting on Saturday 27 August with a full day of celebrations. The Ken Bridge was designed by engineer John Rennie and completed 200 years ago, permanently linking the communities of the Glenkens and forming an iconic Glenkens landmark. The Ken Bridge lluminated by new lights installed by DRAX for the bicentenary celebrations, photographed by David Warren. A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative Some 150 people of all ages gathered in the sunshine for a parade with giant puppet dragons, birds and airplanes. The parade travelled from New Galloway to the Ken Bridge, with local storyteller Anne Errington weaving tales along the way. Continued on page 3... www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette SONGWAVE CHOIR After more than two years of being unable to do what they love best, Castle Douglas-based SongWave Choir are finally performing again. Chair of the choir, Jo Gallant, summed up the thoughts of all the singers: "After two very difficult years it was so lovely to be singing again for real, and to real people. We’d particularly like to express our thanks to the CatStrand for embarking on a joint promotion with us and to the community of Crossmichael for all their support and for the sumptuous spread of refreshments for choir and audience alike." page 2 Kate Howard, the choir's new musical director, expressed her delight at how well the concerts were received, saying: "It’s an honour and a pleasure for me to have been asked to take over such a talented group of singers who never fail to give of their best." Formerly known as the Feral Choir, the renamed ensemble sings songs from all over the world, interspersed with related readings on subjects ranging from the plight of refugees to the joys of childhood in summer. Having resumed rehearsals in September, SongWave are now working towards their winter concerts, which are planned for the weekend of 16-18 December. To be kept up-to-date with future events you can sign up for their newsletter at www.songwavechoir.org.uk Cath Ingham The choir pictured outside Crossmichael Church after their debut post-pandemic performance. Crunch Time for Pylon Scheme An opinion piece... Glenkens has been threatened with a new pylon scheme for over six years. At last, a public inquiry into SPEN’s overhead proposal from Kendoon to Tongland on a new route begins on 1 November. No thanks to D&G Council, though. Last year officials recommended councillors "raise no objections". SPEN had submitted a Landscape & Visual Impact Assessment but the Council failed to carry out its own review, yet said it was in broad agreement and problems affecting landscapes had been addressed. People living in Glenkens disagreed and insisted the adverse effects were so great as to be unacceptable. Close on 900 objections were submitted during the consultation period, many demanding that the most sensitive stretches of the line go underground. The pylons question will eventually be decided by ScotGov, but the local planning authority is a consultee and was wrong to tell councillors to keep quiet. Fortunately, after being contacted by campaigners, councillors forced a discussion and this led to the inquiry. There are, of course, many technical issues involved, but the more straightforward objections include: • Ignoring the Holford Rules, which require SPEN to avoid areas of highest amenity value and follow the existing route which had been there for over 80 years. The public expect established principles like Holford to be followed. SPEN cite the presence of an SSSI at the spot where the existing line crosses Loch Ken as an excuse for ignoring Holford and abandoning the present route. • SPEN is owned by Spanish energy giant Iberdrola, whose own Environmental Policy puts respect for the environment at the centre of the group's energy and business planning. SPEN, by choosing the ugliest option and pushing it through some of our most gorgeous and iconic countryside, make a nonsense of their parent company's policy pledge. • Scottish Ministers, in their Scoping Opinion, told SPEN to consider alternative measures such as undergrounding. SPEN subsequently admitted that undergrounding is technically feasible and environmentally preferable, so why wasn't this their default position from the start? It would have fulfilled Iberdrola’s environmental promise, reduced impact on the environment, prevented lasting damage to Galloway’s tourism, and (probably) won the approval of local communities. SPEN say it would cost £96 million more. But the operator would benefit from lower maintenance, higher transmission efficiency and immunity to storm damage. Elsewhere in the country power lines are going underground but SPEN are resisting best practice and planning to cut a swathe though the Galloway Hills Regional Scenic Area with huge steel pylons that will forever blight the pristine landscape awaiting National Park designation. • The accompanying works programme, which is scheduled to last a full five years (and possibly longer), and the traffic management plan will hit New Galloway especially hard. This smallest of Scottish royal burghs hopes to become a gateway to the new national park and has struggled for decades to recover from economic decline. More than a quarter of a million construction vehicle movements – as many as 264 a day – will be shifting stone, removing timber and importing concrete and steelwork. Although banned from the high street, large numbers of construction HGVs will thunder through the normally peaceful village centre on the A712. SPEN’s Environmental Impact Assessment has been criticised as inadequate and flawed, as have other aspects of their proposal. They seem determined to inflict on us an unsightly above-ground scheme in order to maximise their bottom line for the benefit of Iberdrola’s foreign shareholders. If allowed to do so, they will cause immense harm to future tourism on which Galloway and the rest of the region depend, weaken our already fragile local economy and discourage the inward investment needed to prosper. What’s more, they will violate the high aesthetic standards expected in an area bidding for National Park status. Galloway's communities can expect to pay dearly in years to come for this exercise in corporate greed. Please visit www. gallowaywithoutpylons.org/ for further information. Stuart Littlewood Glenkens Gazette page 3 Continued from front page... Upon arriving at the Ken Bridge, Mark Zygadlo’s 'Water Organ' played music based on the speed and turbulence of the river waters through bellows mounted on an 18foot long catamaran. People picnicked, paddled, danced to a silent disco and created their own bridges out of cardboard bricks in a fantastic community afternoon. In the evening people gathered at the Ken Bridge Hotel for the buildup to the Ken Bridge light switch on. There was food and music before the countdown to the illumination which created a glorious display in The parade with giant puppet dragons, walking the gathering dusk. Many thanks to everyone involved from New Galloway to the Ken Bridge. in this fantastic celebration, in particular the volunteers who worked so hard and Drax, who took full ownership of the spectacular bridge lighting. Funding for the community and arts events came from DG Unlimited, the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership, the Loch Ken Trust and the Blackcraig wind farm community benefit fund through the Glenkens & District Trust and Foundation Scotland. The programme was also supported by the Year of Stories 2022 Community Stories Fund, which is delivered in partnership between VisitScotland and Museums Galleries Scotland with support from National Lottery Heritage Fund. Peter Renwick, CatStrand Arts Manager Glenkens Schools Woodland Visit Carsphairn Community Woodland, at Muirdrochwood Forest, near Carsphairn, was host to children from Dalry and Kells primary schools. This was part of their series of autumn Wildlife Bonanza events, supported by the Galloway Glens scheme, which were being held to encourage the local community to visit and feel a connection to the site. Children enjoyed a range of activities including wildlife walks, tree planting and tales from a crypto-zoologist. The overall Bonanza programme consisted of three public events and the school visit. The first public event was Darkness & Stars, followed by Life as a Squirrel or Pine Marten and finishing with Fungi and Mushrooms. For anyone planning a visit to the woodland, the Muirdrochwood car park is on the B729 towards Carsphairn, by the High Bridge junction (postcode DG7 3TE with ‘what three words’ location remit.breed.chestnuts). Glenkens school children in the wildlife hide at Carsphairn Community Woodland with storyteller John Wheeler. To find out more visit Carsphairn Community Woodland on Facebook. If you would like to join CCW visit www. carsphairn/CCWL or email carsphairncw@gmail.com CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOG PLEASE The children at Dalry Primary School are fed up of the dog mess on the school field. Today one of the children slipped on the field and got covered in dog mess. We are asking the people who bring their dogs onto the school field not to, please. We would also ask people to pick up their dog's poo around the village. Our class will be making signs to put up around the village to ask people to clear up their dog's mess. Kai and Archie (P6) Glenkens Gazette page 4 UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVITY The 20-yearold Glenkens Art Workshop is in danger of folding through lack of numbers. Our membership is down to an average of five per week, which has left us reliant on the generosity of grant providers to continue functioning. We are a small, friendly group with different levels of ability. Each member works on their own project in various media. The group meets on Thursday afternoons from 2-4pm at Balmaclellan Village Hall. Please come along! Rekindle your artistic abilities for only £3 a session with tea/coffee and biscuits thrown in. Tom Leach t_leach1@sky.com to support our village hall volunteer committees, working towards ensuring the sustainability of our community and public spaces. should see some concrete movement on those fronts soon. CAP Priorities Get Moving In line with the Glenkens Community Action Plan priorities, work on a communications hub website for the Glenkens and wider district is underway. The aim is to create a one-stop shop for Glenkens residents and visitors that will highlight events, job vacancies and volunteering opportunities, as well as signpost to existing community websites. Another project that hopes to show the strength of everyone working together is an asset network. This aims Both these projects are supported by the Blackcraig wind farm community benefit fund, through the Glenkens & District Trist and Foundation Scotland. The CAP Steering Group met again in August and determined that the current focus for longer-term projects should be around Energy Efficiency and Land Use. These are important topics, and I am currently working out how we can best add value to the many enthusiastic and effective grass roots projects out there. Other important CAP topics are childcare, housing and local jobs, and we The Glenkens Community & Arts Trust has a leadership role in delivering the CAP, but for success we need to see its delivery happening through a variety of different organisations. Local Initiatives in New Galloway is already doing great work on the Youth Activities strand of the CAP, and Propagate is working hard on local food elements. If you have any other ideas, I’d love to hear from you! Helen Keron, Executive Manager, GCAT helen@catstrand.com To see the action plan visit www.glenkenstrust.org.uk/ community-action-plan Glenkens Gazette page 5 Education & Training Fund Glenkens & District Trust (GDT) and Foundation Scotland have announced a new Education & Training bursary fund for people living in the Glenkens and district area. GDT Trustees are keen to spread the word that this new fund is not just for school leavers but for anyone aged 16+ resident in the fund’s area of benefit who is looking for support with the costs of accessing training or education opportunities – be that people who are re-training mid-career, returning to work after a gap, or entering further and higher education or an apprenticeship. The fund has been created to help support access to opportunity and improved livelihoods, in line with the existing Community Fund and Community Action Plan priority 'An Economically Flourishing Community'. This new fund feels more relevant than ever as we face rising living costs and a potential recession and associated impacts on employment. As with the Blackcraig Wind Farm Community Fund, the area covered by the new bursary scheme is defined by the Community Council areas shown on the map to the right. Grants are available for both short courses (capped at £1,000) and multiyear courses, up to a maximum of three years and £3,000 (£1,000 per year of support sought). Travel, subsistence and childcare costs can be supported, and a range of course types will be considered including driving qualifications, if these can be demonstrated to help contribute to accessing a training or education opportunity. Applicants will be asked to demonstrate how they arrived at sums being sought – it’s important to read the guidance on the fund’s webpage before starting an application. People with bursaries will be asked to report back on how they used the grant and what difference it made. For more information about the new fund go to https://tinyurl.com/ GDTbursaryinfo The above map shows the GDT fund area of benefit. From Geology to Theology Many people may have assumed that David Bartholomew, minister of the four Glenkens churches for the last 28 years, had always been a Church of Scotland minister, but this in not the case. The clue to another side of this modest and unassuming man is in his title of 'Dr'. However this is not a doctorate in theology but in geology. Brought up in Edinburgh and schooled at Edinburgh Academy, David was initially unsure what to study at university but picked geology as he felt that resonated with his love of the outdoors and the natural world. After a brief time calling himself an atheist, the Christian faith became meaningful to him in his last year at school. Whilst at St Andrews University he joined a bible study group and spent several years helping out at the Church of Scotland summer missions in Ayr. His time at St Andrews was followed by an MSc in mineral chemistry at Birmingham and then several years studying for a doctorate at Leicester University. This took him to remote Patagonia for three months and, on returning to Britain, he brought back two tonnes of rocks which were shipped via the Panama Canal – some of which have now found a home in the rock garden at their cottage in the Borders! David and Heidi outside the Manse in Dalry. On gaining his doctorate in 1984, David was unsure of his path. He toyed with the idea of working for an oil company but didn’t feel the fit was right for him. He was delighted when a letter to the Geological Survey of Zimbabwe resulted in a job offer, leading to work on the mineral resources of Zimbabwe and field mapping. His strong faith and desire to serve God also led him to help out at a church in Harare by teaching Sunday School, and he also offered to help at a Scripture Union camp on an island in Lake Kariba where one of the other leaders was Heidi… After nearly five years working in Zimbabwe, he felt a strong call from God to train for the ministry and this took him to Aberdeen University and his fourth degree – Bachelor of Divinity. During this time he and Heidi corresponded with one another until Heidi, who was working for Coopers and Lybrand by this time, engineered a one-year posting to Aberdeen which allowed their friendship to develop further. They became engaged and then, in August 1992, were married in Harare. After their honeymoon they spent a month in Mozambique helping with a mission to street kids. The pull of a rural life led David to apply to be minister in the Glenkens, where he was ordained minister in 1994 – and retired in 2022. In the same way that his love for God remained strong during his years as a geologist, so his connection to the earth continued during his years as our minister. Following encouragement from one of his elders, Roger Godfrey, he took up metal detecting in 1997 and became an enthusiastic metal detectorist, meeting several other detectorists in the area. He had met Derek McLennan before and had asked for the opportunity to join him detecting on church land at Balmaghie where he and his friends had made some interesting finds. Derek invited him to join him there on 1 September 2014, along with Mike Smith, the minister of the New Life Community Church in Castle Douglas. This was the day when Derek discovered the Galloway Hoard. David wonders if the stars aligned in some way for the hoard on church land to reveal itself to the trio, two of whom were ministers. He describes the “heart-stopping moment” when they discovered the richly decorated early Christian cross. In retirement, David plans to continue metal-detecting, although he accepts that nothing will ever quite match up to the September 2014 find! Nicolette Wise See back page for an article on David's retirement... Glenkens Gazette page 6 CatStrand Singers Book Launch Things have been very exciting in the world of the CatStrand Singers. Over the last two years the group has been working on a book of music, local history and anecdotes with accompanying CD, called Singing the Galloway Glens. The songs are in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern. All have been written and/or arranged by Nicola Black. Nicola has crafted newly commissioned songs, some from her own fertile imagination, some from poems and fragments of writing from writers, based on the area, its people and wildlife. There are also some arrangements of well loved, familiar Galloway songs. The songs include some from weel kent characters not with us any more, Tommy Edgar MBE, Bunty Scott and Logan Patterson, as well as present local writers Christine Rae and Debra Hall, as well as members of the Ken Words writers group. "I can’t wait to share these songs with my choirs and singing group," said Kate Howard, choir leader and composer. The CD and book will be available at local outlets and via choir members. You can hear harmony versions of the songs by the CatStrand Singers by buying a CD or download at www. singingthegallowayglens. bandcamp.com Also available on the website is a download of harmony parts for the songs which can be found in the 'merchandise' section. There will be a small initial fee and after that they are free to copy for choirs to use. The CatStrand Singers have been meeting for twelve years and are a selfselecting group. There are no auditions and anyone can join. They’re always happy to welcome new members. The project has been supported by the Galloway Glens scheme and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The first performance of the songs will take place at CatStrand on the afternoon of Sunday the 16 October at 4pm. Glenkens Gazette page 7 CatStrand Highlights It seems that summer has flown by in a blink, as has my first year in post as arts, culture and heritage manager at CatStrand. However, not to worry, we have plenty to warm your cockles as the winter nights draw in. We are delighted to have secured another year of funding for our arts programme from Creative Scotland, making it 15 years in a row! We were awarded our full request, which is a testament to the huge amount of work by many people that goes into creating and delivering the Arts Programme, plus the quality of the acts that CatStrand attracts. So back to what's on...the National Theatre of Scotland have included us for two dates on their tour of May Sumbwanyambe’s play Enough of Him, based on the life of Joseph Knight, an African man who lived as a slave in Scotland in the 1700s. This performance will be captioned to improve accessibility for all. Paragon will host a one-day conference called All In about access and inclusion in the arts at CatStrand in early October. This will be a day of sharing experience and best practice, with a good element of performance included. We have more theatre in the form of Downs With Love, a funny and uplifting story of a love triangle between Beth - a young woman with Down’s Syndrome her carer Tracy, and Mark who plays the guitar in the pub. Jordan & Skinners' The Time Machine: A Radical Feminist Retelling promises a bold and irreverent reimagining of HG Wells science fiction classic. The day before the show the company will lead a theatre workshop, open to all. On Tuesdays from October through to December, New Galloway-based writer Dr ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY SCANNING Dairy & Sucklers; Ageing, Twin & Barren Detection. Trailer system includes triplets, marking and shedding. Pregnancy and number of pups. For bookings and info: Duncan Kennedy 07860 474001 dk@passcan.co.uk www.passcan.co.uk Sarah Thomas invites you to join her in the Icelandic tradition of Kvöldvaka. This tradition was born of winter nights when the days were short and work still to be done, but satisfied a thirst for literature and imagination. The sessions will be based around weekly live readings of Sarah’s ecological memoir The Raven's Nest, with the audience invited to knit, darn, spin, mend or draw whilst listening. If music is more your taste, we have you covered with gigs from world-class jazz saxophonist Tommy Smith, jazz duo Bancroft & Lynne, genre-crossing harpist singer and composer Esther Swift, the soonto-be folk legend that is Kris Drever, and finally Fraser Fifield and Graham Steven’s folk instrumentation & jazz guitar. The long-established Glenkens choir CatStrand Singers are also returning to the CatStrand fresh from the launch of their new album (see article on opposite page). Take a look at the What's On section on p34 or the ad below for more events or pick up our brochure, visit www.gcat.scot or join our mailing list for full details. Peter Renwick PROJECT IN FOCUS Glenkens Gazette page 8 Leaving a Lasting Legacy The Galloway Glens Scheme is working to ‘connect people to our heritage’, while boosting the local economy and supporting sustainable communities. It has been quite a ride, but there is no getting away from the fact that our delivery phase ends in September 2023 – in essence we only have a year left! Over the last four years it feels like the Galloway Glens Scheme has increasingly found where it fits in the local funding and community development network. We are an example of the Biosphere ‘In Action’, and what can happen when the amazing qualities of our region are harnessed to draw down national funding on a scale and with a focus to make a difference. Much discussion is underway about what happens when we go in September 2023, and working to maximise the legacy of the scheme. What do we mean by ‘legacy’? Legacy varies from who is going to look after the 'bricks and mortar' projects supported, through to who is going to make sure publications and partnerships generated from work undertaken are retained. Many projects supported through the Galloway Glens Scheme have a natural legacy partner – for instance National Trust for Scotland, Loch Ken Trust or Glenkens Community & Arts Trust. Other aspects to our legacy might suit our bigger and longer-term partners at the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere. Over the next year you might notice us toning down the Galloway Glens ‘brand’ and beefing up the visibility of partners through our output. One positive to our departure is that we know we are going, and can plan accordingly. We want to leave partners and local communities keen to get involved in a similar initiative in the future. We are also working to measure the impact of the scheme. Yes, this means number of people at events, using footpaths and attractions supported, but also some of the harder to measure points, such as total spend with Dumfries & Galloway Businesses, increased confidence and knowledge about the local heritage. It is easier to count how many people were at an event than it is to work out if the event was actually enjoyable or useful. Some of the unintended positive consequences of the Galloway Glens Scheme have actually been the most rewarding – a local supplier we used going on to bid for work with other departments in Dumfries & Galloway Council, innovative approaches used in supported projects being adopted by others on the national stage. How we best capture and evidence these to support the development of future schemes will be key. As we step into our last year of operation, the scale of support received from so many places really hits home. From the funding from National Lottery Heritage Fund and partners such as Drax, the owners of the Galloway Hydro Scheme, through to the time and enthusiasm of volunteers working on projects. Onwards, the last 12 months beckon, and we have plenty still to do… The Biosphere Explorers project engaged children with the outdoors: Below left, children from Dalry Primary School plant trees at the Carsphairn Community Woodland. Below right, enjoying a Crichton Carbon Centre walk near New Galloway. Sponsored page, working in partnership W W W. G A L L O W AY G L E N S . O R G The Galloway Glens Team Working towards OUR CLIMATE & BIODIVERSITY FUTURE Glenkens Gazette The Galloway Glens Scheme is working really hard with partners to play our part in tackling the Climate & Biodiversity challenges that we all face, changing habits and reducing consumption. Dumfries & Galloway Council has set the ambitious target of being a net zero carbon region by 2025. With the COP26 Climate Change Conference taking place in Glasgow, this is a chance to review milestones from within the Galloway Glens Scheme so far... More than 12,000 electric vehicle miles travelled carsphairn 1,400 page 9 We’re all in this together, contact us with any queries you may have on climate or biodiversity and we will help or point you in the right direction. hectares of Galloway landscape under active management Supporting the Loch Ken Trust’s ʻLOCH KEN PLAN’, dalry aligning work around Loch Ken with all 17 of the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals overseeing the THE CLIMATE READY KEN PROJECT, loch ken ‘Galloway Footsteps’ events committed to 1,900 fewer pieces of single-use plastic and a saving of tonnes of carbon Supporting National Trust for Scotland’s ground-breaking ʻTHREAVE LANDSCAPE RESTORATION PROJECT’ John Muir awards achieved, educating young people in the natural world castle douglas 11,000 The Galloway Glens Scheme is an initiative of the Council’s Environment Team. designing an adaptation toolkit for the Loch Ken community in the face of climate change native trees planted across the region by March 2022 Dedicated projects to support 3 of the Biosphere’s 37 school sessions undertaken by the Kirkcudbright HIGH FOCUS SPECIES PRIMARY FUNDER: THE GALLOWAY GLENS SCHEME IS OVERSEEN BY A PARTNERSHIP BOARD, INCLUDING: CRICHTON CARBON CENTRE’S ‘Biosphere Explorers’ education project Keep up to date with our latest news: WWW.GALLOWAYGLENS.ORG Glenkens Gazette page 10 Glen Gravel/Glen Glyde Wigtown is Book Town, Kirkcudbright is Artists Town and Castle Douglas is Food Town. When you are a town it seems easy to find an identity and many of us enjoy the reputations that each of these towns enjoy, but when you are a Glen…what then? You might argue that Dalry is Bird Town with the newly signposted Watson Trail, but I started to wonder if there is an identity in Glenkens that transcends one town or village; a collective identity. After all there is no question that the titles of Book Town, Artists Town and Food Town draw in revenue and investment. The answer I found was almost 100 miles north of New Galloway, in Aberfoyle... gravel! Aberfoyle has become known in cycling circles as Gravelfoyle. Gravel, for the uninitiated, is the middle ground between mountain biking and road riding; and it is quite a big middle ground. With trails ranging from well-groomed gravel paths to descents that rearrange your skeleton with vibration, gravel riders come in all shapes and sizes from those who appreciate a quiet ride in nature to thrill seekers looking to push the boundaries of what is possible on a bike. So perhaps your question is, if there is a Gravelfoyle why does Scotland need a Glen Gravel? It is a good question, and one worthy of an answer, but the Glenkens secret weapon is not gravel but glide. The Glenkens cycling landscape is equally well placed to deliver you at the coast on roads raced in the British Cycling national road cycling championships and Tour of Britain. Glenkens provides a Jekyll and Hyde experience for cyclists from the rolling roads by Loch Ken to bone-jarring escapades in the Galloway Forest Park; the sheer variety of riding to be had caters for most, if not all, and for those it doesn’t cater for we find ourselves flanked by the 7Stanes mountain bike trails. So why us? Well, to tell the truth, Gatehouse of Fleet has already hosted the first Raiders Gravel event sponsored by big bike brand Canyon, but it wasn’t big events that made Gravelfoyle. The Gravelfoyle destination brand and waymarked trails are a project operated by a local community interest company. The organisation is owned and operated by cycling enthusiasts local to Aberfoyle. Their aim was to develop a cycling-related infrastructure, grow participation and deliver the Trossachs as a cycle tourism hot spot, and most importantly to make cycling a key economic driver for the area. Cycling in Aberfoyle has been a boost for not only hospitality, but also independent bike shops, guides, community shops and beyond. All it takes for the Glenkens is a few keen bodies to start mapping routes to build momentum in establishing a reputation as the gateway to some spectacular rides both on and off road. Of course, you may not want to share the Jekyll and Hyde secret of Glenkens gravel and glyde, but if you fancy mapping some routes maybe we can start a movement? Alastair Lamb, alastair.l.lamb@gmail.com LOOK BEFORE YOU COOK With the Gazette's emphasis on growing your own fruit and vegetables and vegetable swapping and sharing, I thought other gardeners might find the following (true) cautionary tale amusing. Many years ago I worked in a college to the north east of London and each morning I gave two of my colleagues a lift to work. One of them, Joy, was a keen gardener and liked to grow vegetables so inevitably A D TIMBER SEASONED FIREWOOD FOR SALE HARDWOOD SOFTWOOD KINDLING LOCAL DELIVERY 07884262533 07787416460 the conversation often turned to what we were growing and eating. One morning it was brocolli. I told her that we had grown some really nice, dense heads of brocolli but couldn't cook them whole because they were occupied by big, squidgy green caterpillars which needed evicting. “We don't have that problem,” announced Joy confidently. “In all the years we've grown it I've never spotted a caterpillar on brocolli.” I had noticed that Joy wore glasses in the office but not outside so I asked, “Do you wear your glasses for cooking?” “No, of course not,” she replied, “I know all my recipes off by heart.” “Next time you cut a head of brocolli,” I suggested, “Put your specs on, cut it into small pieces and inspect it to see what's inside.” “Alright,” she agreed, “but I won't find anything. We just don't get caterpillars in ours.” A few days later I pulled up at the usual spot to find Joy looking a bit green about the gills. As she settled into the car her only words were, “I shall never, ever eat brocolli again!” Sue Wiseman Glenkens Gazette page 11 The Optimistic Environmentalist Making the Most of Our Food and Garden: Part 2 As well as for growing food, the garden is good for relaxing in, shading, playing in, or giving us visual or sensory stimulation whilst we're there or through pictures or perfumes. Make the most of your garden. For instance, use rose hips for drinks and salads; or elderberry flowers for fresh summer drinks or home-made wine. Herbs have multiple uses from cooking, scenting the home and healing eg mint for cooking and to make a tea to soothe the stomach or just enjoying; lavender for salads, scenting pillows or your home, or making an essential oil to treat infections. As well as decorations for the home, plants have uses eg willow for building barriers, structures for shelters, and furniture. Hedges are good for birds and insects and can separate spaces and make corridors. A food hedge is good for your kitchen and looks decorative. Remember these spaces are also home to many different living creatures and plants and their needs should be considered too. Giving the right amount of nutrients and water to the soil and plants is important. Use organic fertiliser by growing clover or comfrey, for instance, and learn how to apply these appropriately to the garden or compost. If you buy compost, use peat-free; peat bogs soak up carbon from the air and hold it in like a carbon sink, so are vital to our battle to reduce carbon. Use rainwater collected by you because it contains fewer chemicals than drinking water, eg no chlorine. Use plants that are good for pollinating insects such as open 'single' flowers for bee access and buddleia, loved by moths and butterflies. Install structures that will help everyone to coexist such as boxes for birds, bats, insects and other animals, or cages to keep your fruit protected whilst allowing animals to eat the rest. Reduce negative impacts - use organic or natural pesticides and leave small areas untouched for insects to use, in turn feeding birds. Plant varieties that are more pest or disease resistant. Put cardboard under trees or biodegradable membrane on soil so weeds can't grow through, or use a weed wand to burn weeds on a path. Encourage helpful species into your garden to reduce those you don't want hedgehogs, frogs and toads all eat slugs and snails. Buy encarsia formosa for your greenhouse, a harmless almost invisible wasp which kills white fly (www.rhs. org.uk/prevention-protection/biologicalcontrol-garden). Companion planting is the close planting of different plants that enhance each other's growth, protect each other from pests, help with pollination and provide habitat for beneficial insects. For instance, plant basil or onions with peppers, or peas or beans with potatoes. Be creative. Just because something is labelled as a weed does not mean that you can't use it for its beauty in a flower arrangement. However, be careful that you understand the plants so that you don't introduce weeds into your garden by mistake or poisonous plants where it would not be safe for children or animals. If you want to send flowers that aren't home-grown, buy UK-grown cut flowers rather than imported ones; this can save up to 7.9kg carbon per bunch. Use electric gardening tools such as battery-driven rather than petrol. If 21% of UK gardeners who use petrol power tools switched to green energy, it would save enough carbon to drive around the planet 29,820 times. Denise MacDonald-Kiernan Glenkens Gazette page 12 GLENKENS YOUTH GROUP The Glenkens Youth activity group is meeting on Monday evenings from 7-8.30pm at Dalry Community Centre this autumn. To tie into the Glenkens Food Month the young people have enjoyed decorating and eating cupcakes and truffles, as well as playing basketball, table tennis, board games and chilling out together. The activities in these sessions are based on the suggestions of the young people themselves so please share your ideas and I will do my best to put them into action. In October we will be making decorations for our Halloween party, and during the October holidays two day trips are planned - one to Dumfries to take part in a Mostly Ghostly Ghost walk and one to Flip Out Trampolining in Glasgow. The Glenkens Youth sessions are supported by Blackcraig wind farm community benefit fund, through the Glenkens & District Trist and Foundation Scotland, and are open to all Glenkens young people aged 11-19 (see poster on p30 for more details). Glenkens Youth activities, including the park meet-ups and the hugely popular Outdoor Fun & Filmmaking sessions held over the summer, are a response to the requests from local young people and families for more opportunities for young people in the area to get together and do sports, outdoor and youth-led activities. These activities wouldn’t have been possible without the help of a group of amazing volunteers who have given up their time for free to help out - a massive thank you goes out to all of them. Feedback from volunteers is that they enjoyed their time with the Glenkens Youth Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP Solicitors and Estate Agents Dumfries & Galloway 01556 503744 www.ggblaw.co.uk All legal advice Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie Kirkcudbright and Dumfries We are looking for people to be part of a small team to look at youth provision in the Glenkens area and how we can take it forward. You could be a parent, carer, young person or represent an organisation. This would be minimal commitment - if you’re interested, please get in touch with Mary on 07967 959 511. group and would like to take part again. If you would like to help out at any of our sessions or would like to find out more please get in touch. I am always keen to hear about what young people in the area would like to do, including older young people who may be interested in volunteering or opportunities to build skills - you can contact me at youthwork.ling@gmail.com or phone/ text 07719 708 668 to join the Glenkens Youth Whatsapp group for information on all local youth events and activities. Olivia Donald, LING Youth Activity & Development Worker Pictured are young people decorating cakes at a Glenkens Youth session. Glenkens Gazette page 13 Ukranians in the Glenkens It can’t have escaped many people’s notice – the tragedy occurring in Ukraine. Nor, that there are now Ukrainians living amongst us in the Glenkens. People from Ukraine very much like their privacy and are unlikely to wish to speak about their life in Ukraine or the war, so in this article I won’t be naming any individuals or describing the events causing them to be here. Likewise, my comments are from what I have read and heard from hosts across southwest Scotland. In a previous article I wrote about how the people of the Glenkens have opened their homes to those fleeing oppression from the time of the Covenanters, to the two World Wars and now Ukraine. To my knowledge, in the Glenkens we currently have six adults and seven children with a further two adults and one child expected soon, in five family groups. Several of the children are now at school in Dalry. As a host of a family of three, I can tell you that I have yet to meet or even hear of a Ukrainian who plans to settle here. They want to return to their homeland as soon as it is safe. To this end some are holding on to their jobs in Ukraine and working remotely, and at the same time seeking and finding work in Scotland. Their Ukraine earnings becomes a pittance when they bring it to Scotland because of the awful exchange rate, that and their incredible work ethic explains the desire and need for a second job. Many are keeping their children enrolled in schools in Ukraine and children are doing their Ukrainian schoolwork remotely in addition to attending schools in this country and everyone is doing what English lessons they can. Some Ukrainians arrived in Scotland with little more than the t-shirts on their backs, and with clothes and footwear unsuited to the Scottish climate. The generosity of people in the Glenkens is worth the making of a film in itself. Without even asking, toys, clothes and donations of money have arrived but most touching of all are the small gifts that come with love, a home-made jar of jam, a baked desert or a cake. I don’t want to name any of the generous individuals but the charity shop in Dalry has been a big help with free clothes and toys, and a grant towards transportation costs. Both Mabie Farm Park and the Creetown Rock and Gem Museum have given free admission – I must admit that I am sometimes brazen in asking for a discount on my guests’ behalf, it means that what money we have can go that bit further. I am fortunate that I had spare rooms and was ‘up for’ a project following the death of my wife Betty in January. I expected that this would be my own effort, but how wrong I was. Friends, neighbours and parents of children at the school have rallied around to make my guests feel welcome and a larger circle of friends have given their time to help Ukrainians in the Glenkens with improving their conversational English (both parents and children). As to the bureaucracy and total incompetence of government officials, well – I could write a book. Suffice it to say, that seven weeks after arrival, we are still missing most of my family’s entitlement due to errors and delays in the system and our story is unfortunately far from unique. One surprise is that language is not the biggest handicap; that honour goes to cultural differences. I could not have imagined how it would be to share a house with people with such a different way of living. In Ukraine they have communal heating which is fixed price so turning up the heating a few degrees or long showers cost nothing over there. I have put my big foot in it more than once by failing to anticipate our differences. Another shock for them is how poor our health and dental services are compared with what is available in Ukraine. But having said all that, everyone can be part of the solution. If you see a Ukrainian walking around in the Glenkens (with or without their host), please introduce yourself and offer some basic conversation – this will help their English. Suggested topics: the weather (as always), traffic, price of food, local recipes, where have they been in Scotland, local events and even good places to forage for wild food. Let us hope that they soon get what they want – to return to a peaceful Ukraine. Slava Ukraini! Paul Goodwin SOPHIE'S POEM The Beach The waves, they dance In joyous ways They loop and swirl and prance Oh how I wish I were the sea So others could feel at one with me The birds, they fly Up in the sky They dive and flap and cry Oh how I wish I were a bird So I wouldn't have to speak a word The sand, it glimmers In the sun It blows and shines and glimmers Oh how I wish I were the sand So I to could be a heaven on land The Beach, it glows In the setting sun It's calming, relaxing, peaceful Oh what fun it'd be To spend a day at this heavenly and beautiful sea Glenkens Gazette page 14 ...News from the Banks of Loch Ken... The Loch Ken Ranger Service is leading the way as one of the first community-led ranger services in Scotland. The Ranger Service was set up by the Loch Ken Trust in April 2021 in a bid to protect and care for our natural environment. The Loch Ken Ranger Service covers both land and water activities. Our newest land ranger, Leanne Pumpr, was appointed in June with a post generously funded by the NatureScot’s Better Places Fund. OUR NEWEST LAND RANGER, LEANNE PUMPR, TELLS US A BIT ABOUT HERSELF water. At two-and-a-half he already has his priorities right! I started my career later in life and went back to study after having my children and gained a foundation degree in Creativity for Young Children. I have managed a family centre and worked in partnership with education, health care, social care and the RAF. We moved to New Galloway just over three years ago, closely followed by our expectant daughter and my mum (so much for our peaceful lives!). I worked with Capability Scotland as Child and Family coordinator and as part of my role I delivered and developed presentations within schools on the importance of wearing a cycle helmet; not just for cycling, but numerous sporting activities. I assisted Ken Scott and Mary Smith on the Loch Ken Trust education events and it ignited my passion further to be part of protecting our environment. Inspired by Ken and his font of knowledge, and spending time around the loch, has led me to where I am today. What do you love most about your role as land ranger? Being outdoors and being part of improving and sustaining the environment for future generations ‘Be Respectful of the What is your advice anyone planning to environment and toexplore and wild camp in and around Loch Ken? leave no trace’ I spent most of my childhood on a pair of water skis or on our cruiser on the local rivers down south.These days my pursuits are walking with our pack of hounds, paddle boarding, keeping fit and gardening. I have a passion for the outdoors and an interest in sustainability. My family consists of myself, Guy (whom you may start to see around volunteering alongside me), our two grown-up children and three grandchildren. Our grandson is an avid adventurer and is happiest trekking through the woods or being in the Describe what your job involves… Patrolling the loch, welcoming and educating visitors on responsible access, chatting to lovely people, clearing any rubbish left behind, working in partnership with landowners, hosting educational events and lots more. No two days are the same! Look at the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Check notice boards around the loch for fire risk information. Be respectful of the environment, leave no trace and always fully extinguish campfires. To find out more about the work of the Loch Ken Trust visit www.lochken.org.uk Pictured: Above - Leanne adventuring with her grandson. Below - Leanne with fellow Loch Ken Ranger, Ken Scott. Glenkens Gazette page 15 10,000 Years of Galloway History in a Day BOOK LAUNCH After having been twice-delayed by the pandemic, The Early Peoples of Galloway conference scheduled for 2020 finally took place in September. Once again the CatStrand was sold out for a Glenkens Story event attracting an enthusiastic audience from near and far. Our eight expert speakers took us through 10,000 years of history in a day. Richard Tipping provided a breathtaking over view of the period as hunter gatherers arrived on the land stripped bare by ice. Dramatic events followed in succeeding millennia. Aurimė Bočkutė introduced us to the Mesolithic world of hunter gatherers and the challenge of interpreting scant evidence such as flint workings and shell middens (which also included human knuckle bones!). Andrew Nicholson, D&G’s own archaeologist, galloped us through the local record of finds, from the prehistoric to Roman times, revealing the rich heritage of our region. Several of his cup-and-ring mark finds were discovered when he sat on a carved rock by chance to enjoy a picnic. David Parsons interpreted the complex shifts of languages as different people moved through the area and the legacy left in place names - one of our best tools for interpreting the deep past. Ronan Toolis introduced us to the age of the early Britons and the Kingdom of Rheged whose capital might well have been at Trusty’s Hill at Gatehouse of Fleet. Adrián Maldonado introduced us to the ‘late antiquity’ period which saw early Christian settlement in Scotland. The four conference sessions were chaired by Michael Ansell, Lizanne Henderson, Margaret Elphinstone and David Bartholomew. David introduced the final lectures, covering the burial of the Galloway Hoard, by explaining that he had been present when a detectorist companion made the discovery on historic church land. Orla Craig explained that her PhD research was examining the significance of the location, pursuing a theory that the area around Balmaghie was a “debatable land” and centre of an ecclesiastical power struggle. Alex Woolf rounded up the conference with speculation on who was really in power in what is now Galloway at the end of the first Christian millennium. Staging the conference was a major challenge but the CatStrand staff and volunteers rose to the occasion and the In 2018 the Glenkens Story staged a conference titled Galloway: The Lost Province of Gaelic Scotland. A book of the proceedings - with the same title - was published on the day of this year’s conference with the first copies on sale. The book was edited by Michael Ansell, Ronald Black and the late Ted Cowan. It is published by John Dewar Publishers and is available from CatStrand priced £19.99. Glenkens Story, along with the speakers and attendees, greatly appreciated the warmth and efficiency of the welcome and the high standard of catering. The success of the conference was also a tribute to the inspirational contribution by the late Ted Cowan to the planning of the event. Mike Brown & Michael Ansell, Glenkens Story Steering Group Glenkens Community Shop Latest Grants The Glenkens Community Shop is pleased to have made its second round of grants since life has, more or less, returned to normal. Recipients included Loch Ken Dragon Boats, Clachan Crafters (a new group starting September in Dalry), Balmaclellan Heritage Group, LING, Youth Group Sports, Community Café, Dalry, Dalry Community Cupboard, Lorna Willock's Health & Weight classes (also new this autumn, based in Dalry), LING Community Inclusion Activities, Ken Words Writers Group and Dalry Film Club. We’re so pleased to be able to give out grants again, and will welcome applications for the next round. The closing date for this is Saturday 26 November and application forms will be available in the shop from the end of October. Grants are for sums of up to £500. Applicants should be either interest groups based in the Glenkens or individuals with projects which will benefit the Glenkens community. As you can see from the list, these are many and varied! The shop is now open three full days a week – Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays - from 10am to 4pm. Do drop in sometime, we’d love to see you! The Community Shop Team Linda Garretty from the St Margaret's Guild manning the tombola at the Alternative Games which raised £250 for the local Food Train (see p27 for article on this year's Games). Glenkens Gazette CatStrand Xmas Panto CatStrand Youth Players are delighted to bring a very busy and successful year to a close with their latest panto Sinbad Sails Again by Paul Reakes. The drama season lasted much longer than usual this year with the unprecedentedly successful run of the Youth Players’ production of Lockdown which reached the Scottish Final at Bathgate in June, finishing in second place. After a short break over the summer months, rehearsals are already underway for the popular page 16 Christmas pantomime which will take to the stage on Friday 9, Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 December. Sinbad Sails Again is a brand new script by our favourite panto author Paul Reakes: it promises to be another hilarious show! The storyline is almost like a sequel to the famous stories of Aladdin and Sinbad with both characters taking centre stage in the plot which involves Crossbones the pirate and his henchmen as the baddies and even Abanazar reappears from his exile to join in with the skullduggery. Sinbad’s mother Semolina and his brother Ali plus a few of their friends including Molly the monkey Lunch at Kitty's add to the chaos but of course the Genie of the Lamp reappears to sort everything out and he ensures that everything ends happily ever after! Tickets will go on sale soon and be sure to book early to avoid disappointment as they will sell out very quickly! The Youth Players Successful Late Night Openings The CatStrand late-night openings on Fridays through July and August were a huge success, enjoyed by many. New Galloway Town Hall’s LING Lunches have moved across the road to Kitty’s Tea Room. A huge thank you to Sylvia for her kindness and generosity towards supporting LING and our community. We’ll be there while the renovations are in process at the Town Hall. Lunches will still be served on Tuesdays between 12.30pm and 2pm. The everchanging menu will be displayed in the window and on LING’s Facebook. Angie, LING’s Community events and activities inclusion manager, and our volunteers look forward to seeing you all there! The LING Team The sharing platters were a highlight, as were the varied musical accompaniments. It was also a great chance to showcase our new bar, installed over the summer by NDH Joinery thanks to a very kind donation. It’s an excellent addition to our café and displays our fine selection of drinks to great effect! As the autumn draws in, we will be moving to monthly late openings instead of weekly, and the dates for your diary for the next few months are: 16 October – along with a Men’s Shed Quiz Night 4 November – along with a Youth Open Stage Night 1 & 2 December –along with our Xmas Shopping Nights Do feel free to come for a drink and hang out, even if you’re not coming to the events. Thanks to all who came along this summer, we did enjoy having you, and we hope to see you all again this autumn. Brian Edgar David Tallontire CHIMNEY SWEEP Covering the Glenkens & further afield 07709 144 299 - wood burners - multi-fuel stoves - open fires - Agas - Rayburns - birds nest removal with CCTV inspection - certificates issued - feel free to call for advice - Find me on Facebook N ew Galloway Golf Club Founded Foun ded 1902 www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk - 01644 420737 Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Kindling available Glenkens Gazette page 17 OLD FRIENDS I learned to use a sewing machine when I was five; my mother taught me to make clothes for my toys, and the memory is still sharp after seventy years. For my generation this was a crucial skill; my friends and I started making our own clothes in our early teens, and it progressed from there. Our machines followed us through life, marking important times: soft furnishings for a new house, baby clothes, dresses and toys, repairs and renewals. My mother taught me on an old Singer hand-cranked machine, heavy and slow, but sturdy - it had already come through the female line for three generations, with my mother having acquired it from her Great Aunt Maud. I progressed to a brand-new Bernina in 1972, to make curtains for our first house. It was top of the range at the time; I wanted it to last… It did last - half a century of family service - but I was devastated when, in the middle of lockdown when I needed it most, it developed its first problem and became unusable. Worse still, I had run out of people prepared to service my ‘vintage’ machine, my old friend. Last year, people might have witnessed an old lady doing a dance of joy in New Galloway High Street. There, in a window near the post office, was an old Singer, and on it a notice offering to mend and restore old sewing machines. John Johnes offers this service for pre1980s machines. My Bernina was saved! John found parts on the internet, gave it a thorough overhaul and had it back to me within a week. John donates all fees to the New Galloway Town Hall Restoration Fundraiser Appeal and has so far raised over £1,000, which attracted match funding from the UK Government Community Ownership Grant Fund. John also restores and re-sells antique and vintage machines, and has some fine examples, mostly hand-cranked Singers. They are beautiful objects in their own Family and friends coming to stay? Short of space? Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 www.covenanters-holidaycottagescotland.co.uk right and non-sewers have also bought them, just to enjoy their presence. Chatting with John and his wife, Catrin, this ‘presence of an old family friend’ seemed to be a recurring theme. Catrin’s 1937 Singer Singer sewing machines were made at Kilbowie, Clydeside was passed down from 1884 until the factory closed in 1980. This beautiful to her from her 1929 Singer 99K is typical of the robust construction and grandmother and mother; the handle ornate decoration. The oldest machine to pass through of the hand-cranked John’s hands was an 1897 Singer 128K and its owner is machine worn smooth delighted to have it back in working order. by three generations. She finds the family line going from my great-great Aunt associations and Maud, through six generations. Another gentle rhythms soothing in times of client has bought a Singer to give for her stress. niece’s 21st birthday, to launch her into a John’s clients had similar affectionate fashion course at Kings’ College, London. stories to tell. They value the continuity, Hopefully, these will be the foundation for and the family memories brought by the ‘Old Friends’ of the future. using it: making bunting for a family Annie Graham wedding, transforming a new kitchen with bright curtains, a quilt for a first-born, John Johnes can be contacted at making garden cushions during lockjjohnes@gmx.com or 07731 548 626. down… Several people also mentioned how their machines enable them to re-cycle and reuse materials. This was secondnature to my generation, and we are anxious to pass on these skills of selfsufficiency and conservation. Happily, several of John’s clients are passingon to next generations. Catrin has taught her daughters and Cllr John Denerley laid a wreath at Carsphairn War Memorial in I have been memory of the late Queen Elizabeth II on Friday 16 September. teaching my Pictured are Cllr Denerley (centre) with a group of villagers who great-niece, attended to pay their respects to our late sovereign. keeping the 唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀Ⰰ 䰀漀漀猀攀 䌀漀瘀攀爀猀Ⰰ 䘀愀戀爀椀挀猀Ⰰ 䌀甀猀栀椀漀渀猀 刀攀昀椀氀氀攀搀 䘀爀攀攀 䔀猀琀椀洀愀琀攀猀 吀栀攀 圀漀爀欀猀栀漀瀀Ⰰ 䴀漀渀礀戀甀椀攀Ⰰ 䌀漀爀猀漀挀欀⸀ 䐀䜀㜀 ㌀䐀夀 眀眀眀⸀䠀愀爀爀椀猀ⴀ唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀 ㄀㘀㐀㐀 㐀㐀 㔀㈀㤀 Did you know..? We have a Self Service Laundrette behind the community shop Open 8am to 5pm Monday to Saturday and from 9am to 3pm on Sundays Glenkens Gazette page 18 sponsored by If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk FREE Double synthetic fibre duvet, not much used. Machine washable. Contact: Sue on 07563 718 011 Used kitchen units available from 24 October. Contact: Gerry on 07952 507 108 Supermarket trolley style barbecue on wheels, little used. Brand new bike tyre, Kenda Desert, size 50-559 26x1.95. Contact: Alan on 07769 680 938 Magimix spiraliser attachment, came as a special offer, never used. Contact: sandjharvie@ gmail.com WANTED Computer monitor/flat screen TV for use with Xbox/Playstation. Contact: Sarah on 07727 127 997 Double bed size divan base with drawers. Contact: 01644 460 673 Miniature Painting. By mistake I gave away a miniature painting on an easel to the Dalry Charity Shop. It's only about two inches high. Did you by chance buy such a painting from the shop in April? I would dearly love to have it back as it was painted by a relative. Cost reimbursed plus a reward and my undying thanks. Contact: Paul on 07973 174 342 Chest freezer. Contact: Tony on 07507 704 821 Old lawn mowers/strimmers/ other small machinery. Nonrunners/broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 FOR SALE Wooden fire surround, 56in wide, 49in tall, as new condition. Offers around £100. Contact: 07521 902 567 HOME WANTED IN THE GLENKENS We are seeking to buy a home with 2-3 bedrooms and 3-5 acres of land, somewhere in the Glenkens. Horse manure, rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 Anywhere and any condition considered please help us to stay in the Glenkens! Contact: Abi and Bruce on 07340 531506 or abi@mordin.net Youth Intern We are really excited to welcome our new intern, Phoebe Watt, to the CatStrand Arts Team. Phoebe's background is film, having done a degree in Film and Media before studying a Masters in Film Curation, and she will be working with us for the next six months. Phoebe has previously volunteered with the youth-led Climate Crisis Film Festival, and during her Film Curation degree she also worked with the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival. Both festivals aim to challenge audiences’ perspectives on complex issues such as climate change and mental health, particularly by illuminating the diverse range of underrepresented voices of those who are impacted. Phoebe says: "I’m so excited to be joining the team and really looking forward to getting involved. I would like to increase younger audiences’ engagement with cinema and the arts through diverse programming that reflects the concerns and interests of my generation." This role is supported by The Holywood Trust’s core support of the CatStrand Young Creatives programme and by the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership. Peter Renwick and Cat Campbell, CatStrand Glenkens Gazette page 19 sponsored by Meet the Producers Glenkens Food Hub coordinators, Lesley and Tamsin, were delighted with the event held at New Galloway Town Hall in September as part of Glenkens Food Month. The community had the opportunity to come and talk to producers about how they grow, farm or make their products. All the producers are based within 30 miles of the Glenkens and operate in an environmentally friendly and humane way, with a focus on rare breeds and using local ingredients. Abi from Hidden Veg had a delicious beetroot salad and kale pesto to taste. Hidden Veg follows agro-ecological and permaculture principles and aims to produce no waste and to offer affordable produce. Francis from Baile Curriach, a small farm near Dalbeattie, came to talk about their rare breed Shetland cattle. They are passionate about preserving this breed and manage them in a sustainable way, with the cows and nature at the forefront. The herd are purely grass fed, producing high quality beef which tastes how beef used to taste! Beans Greens is a radically simple, yet innovative, set-up. They grow healthy, tasty microveg from organic seeds in peat-free compost. The Glenkens Food Hub 'Meet the Producer' event at New Galloway Town Hall. Some of these greens have forty times the pastries, savouries, and cakes he offers. nutrient density of their fully grown equivalent! They can be Galloway Pasta were the most local scattered on salads, sprinkled on soup, of our producers, with Andrew making mixed into an omelette, added on top of the pasta at The Smiddy café on the High your cheese-on-toast and much more. Street in New Galloway. Ruth from Low Auldgirth Steading A selection of cheeses was also available joined us from her regenerative, organic to try, kindly donated by another Glenkens small holding near Thornhill. They work Food Hub producer, The Ethical Dairy. with traditional breeds of pigs, such as We are having a festive 'Meet the Oxford Sandy and Black, and Ryeland and Producer' tasting event at the end of Gotland sheep, from which they also sell November, date TBC. Follow us on the wool and fleeces. Facebook, sign up to our newsletter or Tom from Earth’s Crust Bakery in look out for posters for more details. Castle Douglas has been baking and www.openfoodnetwork.org.uk/glenkenscatering for a long time, and does so in food-hub/shop Tamsin and Lesley a thoughtful and considered way. This is The Glenkens Food Hub is supported highlighted in the ingredients he chooses, by the Blackcraig wind farm community the healthful and tasty sourdough bread benefit fund, through the Glenkens & selection, and in the wide range of District Trist and Foundation Scotland. Glenkens Gazette page 20 One Hundred Skylarks, and More... What a difference it made leaving the French windows open and letting evening birdsong, on the cool air after rain, into the Smiddy as we launched 'Over Holm and Hill - a Year Poetry-walking a Birdscape'. The exhibition, which ran from 25 June to 22 July, was the creative culmination of a seasonal cycle of poetry walks on the ‘Donald Watson Bird Walk’ in the countryside around Dalry, led by local bird expert Chris Rollie and Ken Words project co-ordinator, Jane McBeth. The walks, and accompanying writing workshops in Dalry Town Hall, prompted a richness of original material which was curated in a sequence that wrapped round the walls of the gallery space, giving viewers both pleasure and pause. If you missed the exhibition, you can catch up with it in January in the café gallery at Gracefield Arts Centre, Dumfries. Meanwhile, throughout October Ken Words have another poetry-walk inspired exhibition on the walls – this time in the CatStrand Gallery. ‘Polmaddy and the Rhinns - The Beholding Eye’ runs from 3 to 29 October and invites viewers to reflect on the way we come to understand and perceive this landscape. If you have any queries about either exhibition, please contact project co-ordinator Jane McBeth at jane. kenwords@gmail.com Ken Words is a Glenkens Communities & Arts Trust project, supported by the Galloway Glens and Creative Scotland funding. The Glenkens Scouts The Glenkens Cub Scout Pack were delighted to receive a 'thank you' letter from the Queen's ladyin-waiting in response to the platinum jubilee celebratory cards we made for Her Majesty. The Cubs would like to thank you for supporting our stall at this year's Alternative Games by donating and buying; we raised £78.70. It was amazing to have the Games revived after Covid, and to see so many people having fun and making old and new friendships. A lot of work goes on beforehand to make it such a success, and we thank everyone involved, even though James did promise I would win the Grand National Snail Race - maybe next year James! (See article on p27 for more on the Games). We are on the lookout for two Beaver Leaders if anyone is interested. I am sure Diana and Tim, if available, would help you get started. Beavers are between the ages of six and eight. Heather, Hannah, Doug & Ben Pictured to the right is the letter received from the Queen's lady-inwaiting. TOWN HALL TRANSFER FINALISED Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING) is delighted to announce that it has now taken asset transfer of New Galloway Town Hall from D&G Council. The building is held in trust for the benefit of the community – both those resident in New Galloway and Kells and across the wider Glenkens. Our thanks to the Council for their support over the several years it has taken to bring this about. There was a last-minute hiatus when dry rot was identified, but the council have guaranteed to treat, repair and restore and are working impressively fast and collaboratively with LING to coordinate the work taking place in the hall – and to maximise our capacity to stay open for activities at the same time. Now that we have ownership of the building, the grant funding we have secured (totaling over £300,000) can begin to be released to us, with the planned renovations and refurbishment taking place between now and Christmas. Thanks go to the several grant-funding bodies who have been so patiently waiting for asset transfer to finally be achieved. Their encouragement, advice and support, in some cases over many years, has been invaluable to us. They include: The UK Community Ownership Fund; The Glenkens and District Trust; The Garfield Weston Foundation; The National Lottery Community Fund; The Pilgrim Trust; The Architectural Heritage Fund; The Winnifred Ann Kennedy Trust; The Robertson Trust; The Galloway Association of Glasgow; The Hugh Fraser Trust; and the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership Scheme. Anne Glaister Glenkens Gazette page 21 The villages of the Glenkens sit among some of the highest conservation value areas in southwest Scotland. The landscapes and incredible biodiversity of this region were recognised internationally in 2012 with the award of ‘UNESCO Biosphere’ status to more than 5,200km² of Galloway and Southern Ayrshire. In the decade since its designation, the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere (GSAB) has been working to widen understanding of our local environments and how we can approach climate change impacts and the global nature crisis. Alongside this remit GSAB aims to help local people connect with the exceptional natural beauty that lies on our very doorsteps. Out and About in the Biosphere fall. He says: "I am one of the project support officers and have been in the role since July. I recently graduated with a First Class BSc (Hons) in Wildlife Conservation Management from SRUC and am an avid biological recorder and amateur photographer in my free time. For anyone who hasn’t done so before I recommend taking a closer look at some of the Biosphere’s marvellous moths!" The best way to observe moths is to create or buy a moth trap. The charity Butterfly Conservation provides an excellent and easy-to-follow guide; simply google ‘budget bucket moth trap Butterfly Conservation’ and voilà your new hobby as a lepidopterist has begun. Several exciting moths have grass verges. Many of the upland species of dragonfly can be observed in autumn including the golden-ringed dragonfly, common hawker and black darter. For the avid enthusiast, the nationally vulnerable azure hawker can be found at the southernmost part of its UK range in remote blanket bogs in the Galloway hills. There are records of azure hawkers at Silver Flowe, one of the Biosphere’s Core Areas – this highlights the value of our UNESCO designation for threatened species. Now to glorious galls. Autumn provides perfect conditions to find galls. A gall is in essence a benign tumour, created as a reaction of a plant’s tissues to damage from a feeding or egg-laying insect or fungus. One of the commonest ones to find is the ubiquitous oak marbled gall which, as the name suggests, grows on oaks, and these were once used to dye leather and cloth. The bedeguar gall is a spectacular sight to behold and grows on dog rose, caused by a group of wasp larvae. Finally, look for the oak knopper gall, a colonist from the 1960s which chemically induces acorns to mutate to provide a safe space for the larvae to develop. As the colours of autumn evolve around us it is almost instinctive to be drawn to the big visual dramas of our changing seasons, but there is plenty to discover in the micro world below. The Biosphere team includes specialists in land use and biodiversity who are working with farmers, landowners, and landbased enterprise across the Glenkens and beyond, encouraging the adoption of nature-friendly practice in land management. Among the Biosphere’s projects and partnerships are those designed to support our essential pollinators – bees, butterflies, beetles and more – creatures with brief and precious lifespans. As the colours of autumn evolve around us it is almost instinctive to be drawn to the big visual dramas of our changing seasons, but there is plenty to discover in the micro world below. Malcolm Haddow is one of the newest members of ‘Team GSAB’ and shares here some of the smaller natural treasures we might spot in the Glenkens as days shorten and leaves begin to been recorded in the Glenkens: among our autumnal species, look for the canary-shouldered thorn, august thorn, large wainscot, frosted orange and green-brindled crescent. Moths have undergone a marked decline in recent decades and by recording moths in your local area you can contribute knowledge to national databases, help track trends in populations, and play a part in achieving the Biosphere’s objectives in conservation. From marvellous moths we move on to dashing dragonflies! As vegetation begins to die back we are provided with ideal conditions to watch dragonflies. One of the last species to emerge, the migrant hawker, has only recently colonized Scotland. It readily breeds in any unpolluted standing water. Watch for migrant hawkers on patrol over vegetation at woodland edges and along Autumn is a prime time to watch local wildlife and I hope we have inspired you to appreciate some of our smaller denizens. If you find any of the species mentioned above, please record them on iRecord or iNaturalist as it has never been more important to monitor our local wildlife than now. The Biosphere’s Land Use & Biodiversity team is available to advise on projects large or small including garden areas, community green spaces, and farming or land-based businesses. They are contactable at mary@gsabiosphere.org.uk with more information available at www. gsabiosphere.org.uk Pictured, left to right: canary-shouldered thorn moth; bedeguar gall; Migrant Hawker dragonfly © Malcolm Haddow. Glenkens Gazette page 22 Community Plea to Save School Dumfries and Galloway Council is proposing, subject to the outcome of the statutory consultation process, to discontinue education provision at Carsphairn Primary School, reassigning its catchment area to that of Dalry Primary School. The community of Carsphairn want the school to maintain its 'mothballed' status, leaving the opportunity for the school to open if enough children wish to attend. “We are currently in a 'catch 22' with the children presently in Carsphairn school catchment going to either Dalry, Kells or Moniaive primary schools due to the fact that Carsphairn isn't currently an option and, furthermore, it has proved impossible for parents to enrol their child in Carsphairn,” says Liz Holmes, Carsphairn Community Council chair. She goes on to say: "There are children in Carsphairn who wanted to attend Carsphairn school after it was mothballed but found it impossible. At a meeting held in February 2019 it was agreed to temporarily mothball the school from August 2019, and that if new pupils arrived then they could request to be enrolled at the school, dependant on there being availability of suitable staff. This has clearly not been the case, as parents have been unable to enrol their child at Carsphairn school, which means that we were given misleading and incorrect information at this meeting." Carsphairn Community Council is currently working with South of Scotland Community Housing to create affordable housing in Carsphairn, either in or north of the village, within the next few years. The aim is to regenerate the community of Carsphairn through a number of strands, one of which is family housing. Having a school is key to the sustainability of the village and outlying areas in terms of its appeal to families, especially due to its remote location. Owing to the pandemic, there has been a trend of people moving to more rural areas like the Glenkens and there will almost certainly be a demand for our school as this trend continues." Liz goes on to say: “Continuing to have the school mothballed would give the community the opportunity to regenerate, and it appears to cost the Council very little to keep the school in a ‘mothballed’ state. We would appreciate support from anyone who would like to submit their views on the Members of the community have a petition running to gather support to keep the school open which has already gathered over 300 signatures - visit www.change.org to sign. matter, and which may help prevent the school closure.” To submit your views, or find out more, visit dumgal. gov.uk/consultations or email statutoryconsultation@dumgal.gov.uk before 5pm on Friday 4 November. Glenkens - Producers' Market Shop online: www.ballardsbutchers.co.uk Email: shop@ballardsbutchers.co.uk Tel: 01556 502 501 Free Local Delivery Tues & Fri (orders over £20) Wide Variety of Local Produce Butcher Meat Fruit & Veg Milk & Bread Available to order 2nd Saturday Monthly Dalry Town Hall, 10am-1pm - 8th October & 12th November - ...fresh vegetables, baked goods, preserves, bread, fresh meat, smoked products, cheese, Galloway pasta and artisan cider, chocolates, handmade crafts, gift cards, plants... * Save Fuel - Shop Local * Want to know what’s going on? Then visit www.dalrytownhall.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 23 A Carsphairn Lass: Part II Recollections by Betty McNally When the war broke out there were lots of soldiers around and planes flying over us. We saw many crashes in the areas. There was one in the glen towards Dalmellington where 11 British soldiers were killed and one in Loch Doon where a Czech pilot was killed. Parts of that plane were moved to the Aviation Museum in Dumfries. At night there were a lot of German planes going over to bomb Clydebank. One night we were coming home from the pictures in Dalmellington, the heather and grass round our house was all on fire. This was caused by German bombers dropping incendiary bombs after a bombing raid. we encountered a carry-on at Lagwyne. The army had staged a mock battle and had “blown up" the bridge over the Deugh, but they had built a Bailey bridge over the river so we could get to school. I remember twelve men from the Home Guard guarding the bridge as it was rumoured that the Germans were coming. I remember the Show at Carsphairn on the first Saturday in June. There were lots of animals and birds, hens, bantams, and pigeons in the McMorran’s byre. There was a man who lived in a warm room above where the cows were. I think it was the Randall sisters who had the hotel at that time. The hall was well used with concerts and whist drives. I remember the Popplewells, the owners of the Gaiety Theatre in Ayr, coming to judge a beauty competition. My sister was first, I was second and Jean Kirk was third. We were all very pleased. It was a really busy place with people coming down from Ayr and Glasgow. To me that was a long, long way. My birthday was on Christmas Day and Mum always gave the family a party. I always wanted a bike, but my parents said they couldn't afford one. There was one in a shop window in Dalmellington, and I watched that bike for weeks. On Christmas morning I came downstairs and there was the bike in the livingroom. I burst into tears – I was 14 and that was the first time I found out there was no Santa! Lots of children and mothers came to stay in Carsphairn during the war. Our The Home Guard marching along Carsphairn's main A713 road When I left during the war, courtesy of the Carsphairn Archive. evacuees, a school, I went mother with to work with three wee the Campbells boys, came We went to the village every at the Holm and then I went to from Clydebank but there were Sunday to the Sunday School. train as a nurse at Seafield Hospital two boys from Jersey at Drumjohn. We had only one bike between in Ayr. After that I went to work When all the tanks were about, my mother and me, so we took it at Lamloch, looking after the my mother spent her time on the in turns to ride it or run behind. McMillan children. I got married to girdle making scones and pancakes The Church service was held after William McNally in 1948 in Dalry for everybody. In return we would Sunday School, so we stayed for it. get chocolate and rations from the We were scared of Mrs Sievewright, Church. The service was conducted by both Reverend Mullo Weir, soldiers. Just before Christmas the minister’s wife, who always the Dalry minister, and Reverend one year, one of the Churchill wore a large hat and sat in the Sievewright. William was Dalry tanks crashed near Stroma. It front pew. When Mr Sievewright born-and-bred and he had been in went upside down and six men was away during the war, Mr Tidd the army throughout the war. I was were inside it. They were rescued came by bus from Glasgow to take 18 when I got married and moved and came to Stroma. We thought the weekly service. into the house that my husband that they might have to spend Carsphairn was a very busy little bought for us. Christmas with us, but they were village. We had two shops - Mrs collected before it. Submitted by Frank McHugh, shared Blyth’s and Lawrence’s. The Post courtesy of the Doon Valley Gazette Going to school one morning Office and hotel were also busy. Glenkens Gazette CiC Autumn Update The Connecting in Communities (CiC) team at Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) has been continuing to deliver an exciting and diverse programme of events aimed at bringing people together across the Glenkens and wider district. A current highlight is the new Wellbeing Road Shows that are running in various locations in the area and aim to be a onestop shop for improving wellbeing. You can see the full October programme on the opposite page at www.gcat.scot and on our social media channels. As well as our regular programme, September was a busy month as the team partnered with the Biosphere in delivering Carbon Literacy training, supported the GCAT team effort on the Ken Bridge 200 celebrations and took over the baton of Glenkens Food Month from New Galloway Community Enterprises. Some fabulous events there that we hope you enjoyed – and do look out for the next ones coming. The more behind-the-scenes work of CiC lies in supporting volunteers and volunteer organisations, and we are THE MEN'S SHED The Men's Shed has appointed a social secretary, Walter Starritt, who is busy trying to organise activities to get Shed members out and about. So far we have arranged a Quiz Night at the CatStrand on Friday 14 October at 7.30pm. Please come along - nonShed members are very welcome. We are looking to hold an open day on Saturday 2 October between 10am and 3pm for potential new members to come and have a taste of making things that we can sell at the CatStrand Christmas Shopping Nights on the 1 and 2 December. This will be linked with a barbecue for those who have worked up an appetite - if we can find a chef... page 24 looking forward to a joint project with New Galloway & Kells Community Council to get information about the local help available to us all over the winter out to outlying households, amongst other ideas and other organisations. We’ve also been continuing our work on assessing what the community development needs for the Glenkens and district will be in 2023+, and how CiC can support those. There are some clear emerging themes from the work so far, such as lifelong education and skills, community arts and community engagement, but if you have other thoughts and ideas, we’d love to hear from you on lisa@catstrand.com. We aim to have a draft plan available for review early in the New Year so that we can work on implementing it before the current phase of CiC ends in June 2023. Lisa Ridley, CiC Project Lead Walter has provisionally booked a venue for hosting the Men's Shed Christmas meal. We are going to Nikos, in Castle Douglas, on Friday 16 December at 7.30pm. We are hoping for plenty of support from Shed members and partners, and will try to arrange transport. Other suggestions have been a Golf Day, and visits to the Sulwath Brewery and/or the Bladnoch Distillery. Other suggestions welcome! Please keep an eye on the Glenkens Mens’ Shed Facebook page for more activities as they are arranged. For further information you can contact me at Leach at t_leach1@sky.com Tom Leach Photo of the Issue ...Sponsored by the Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Co This issue’s winner is Susan Currie with a lovely photo of Buddie among the bluebells. Susan wins two portions of mac and cheese from our competition sponsors, the Balmaclellanbased Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Co. Company owner and competition judge, Hannah Gould, said: "We love Buddie in the bluebells - it made us smile!" To enter you can send in any photograph taken in the Glenkens to glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 25 FREE ACTIVITIES OCTOBER ACTIVITY PROGRAMME All these activities are FREE & open to people with no experience or some experience. All equipment will be provided. Most activities will run in small groups so BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL - see contact details below PHOTOGRAPHY IN FOCUS LGBT + FRIENDLY ‘ SAFE SPACE CAFÉ ’ Tuesdays: 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th | 10am-12pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan plus ‘out in the field’ Expert tuition to bring your photography knowledge and skills into focus Saturday 15th | 5pm - 7pm CatStrand Café Drop by for an informal early evening of drinks, snacks and conversation UKULELE WORKSHOPS CHAIR YOGA Wednesdays: 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th | 6pm-7.30pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan Bring rhythm into your life with our informal Ukulele workshops Fridays: 7th, 14th, 16th, 21st & 28th | 2pm - 3pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan Suitable for beginners, gentle introduction to physical and mental benefits. ARTistry OCTOBER’S AUTUMN WALK IN NATURE Thursdays: 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th | 10am -12.30pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan Develop your creative skills in life drawing Contact Leto: letosef@yahoo.com Sunday 23rd 10.00am-12.30pm Meeting at Dalry Town Hall. Easy to moderate walk to Mulloch, spotting autumnal birds and early winter visitors. PLAY READINGS PUDDING CLUB Thursdays 6th & 20th | 7pm-9pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan Come and dip your theatrical toes into a fun evening of play reading, sampling a variety of characters and dramatic situations, in a friendly and welcoming space. Monday 24th | 6.30pm-8.30pm CatStrand Cafe Bring along your favourite Autumnal or Halloween style pudding, share flavours and recipes. OPEN MIC NIGHT Thursday 13th | 7pm - 10pm CatStrand Performers free / Audience £5 includes a tot of whisky on arrival for Dutch Courage! IF YOU HAVE ANY IDEAS OF WHAT ACTIVITIES YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE HAPPENING IN YOUR COMMUNITY, PLEASE DO GET IN TOUCH AND WE WILL DO OUR BEST TO MAKE THEM HAPPEN BOOKING ESSENTIAL For more information or to reserve your place, please call the CatStrand on 01644 420 374 between the hours of 11am - 4pm, or email jo@catstrand.com Glenkens Gazette page 26 Can You Help Save the MUGA The Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) beside Dalry School is partway through an asset transfer, but needs more hands on deck to take things forward. Would you be willing to give some time to pursuing the next stage of the transfer from the Council to the Dalry Community Properties Trust, getting the MUGA fit for use once the transfer is completed and/or organising user groups once it's up and running? The MUGA is a brilliant asset to the communities of the Glenkens with a full size court suitable for tennis, basketball, badminton or other games, floodlights for dark winter evenings, and a great space for the schools to utilise. Meetings of a working group can be held in person or by Zoom, to suit members, but we do need enough people willing to help - let's secure this space for the Glenkens communities into the future! If anyone is interested in supporting the MUGA, please either call Angie Bradford on 07766 476 125 or email Sarah Ade on sarah.ade@gmail.com CLIMATE ACTION NETWORK Introducing D&G Scottish Communities Climate Action Network's (SCCAN) new regional network co-ordinator, Steven Clark: Like the teams from Galloway Glens, the Loch Ken Trust (LKT) and many of your readers, I know time is of the essence and that there's a lot of work to do in the face of climate change. For my part, that means building a critical mass of community-led groups on the SCCAN network, all doing their bit for resilience - or as Barney from the LKT eloquently rephrased it, to create 'Future Ready Communities'. A strong DG Network within SCCAN would help facilitate better communication and let community groups know that they aren't striving in a vacuum, by enabling the sharing of best practices for a multitude of climate action initiatives. There is a world of people out there trying to make their communities more 'Future Ready' and SCCAN has the capability to bring them together. Check out the SCCAN website, sign up for our newsletter or feel free to get in touch with me at steven@ scottishcommunitiescan.org.uk for further information. Steven Clark Glenkens Churches Interim Moderator Following David Bartholomew’s retirement, the position of minister for the parish of 'Balmaclellan, Kells and Dalry with Carsphairn' is officially vacant. This means that the local presbytery appoints an interim moderator to oversee the preparations for a new minister to be recruited. My name is Mark Smith and I am Minister for Dunscore with Glencairn & Moniaive – the other side of those hills - and I have been invited to take on the interim role. I will be acting as moderator (chair) for the Kirk Sessions and working with them to put in place what is needed for the parish to call a new minister. I also oversee the Sunday worship, ensuring that, as far as possible, there is cover for the planned services during the vacancy. I will also make arrangements for baptisms, weddings and funerals during the vacancy. We do hope to be able to appoint a locum minister later in the year, who will take the majority of services. There is a lot of paperwork to do, lots of checks to be carried out, and some negotiations to pursue as the four congregations are looking to become one (union) and a new partnership (union or linkage) with Crossmichael, Parton & Balmaghie with Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham will need to be investigated. The future for many rural parishes in our region is under review and more congregations will have to share fewer ministers, so the church will have to find imaginative ways to work. Watch this space! As you can see in the Church Times section on p32, Sunday worship continues in our local churches – do support them, come along and see what really goes on. We have managed to ensure that all the usual Remembrance Sunday events and services happen this year and the kirk sessions are working on plans for Christmas too. My wife, Debbie, and I live in Wallaceton (half-way between Dunscore and Moniaive) with our elderly cat (Lily), a young tortoise (Dori) and a mad ginger puppy (Lottie). Please feel free to get in touch if you have any questions on 01387 820 475 or mark.smith@ churchofscotland.org.uk Mark RS Smith Pictured above are Mark and Debbie with their dog Lottie. Glenkens Gazette page 27 SOLWAY CREDIT UNION What It Is and How You Can Benefit A Gazette reader asked if we could do an article about Solway Credit Union and how joining could benefit people here in the Glenkens so here it is! What if a bank, instead of being focused on profit, was focused on you? Solway Credit Union (SCU) was set up in 1999 by a group of local people interested in promoting thrift; namely, encouraging better ‘financial health’ through regular saving and low cost loans. SCU provides a range of practical, affordable and straightforward financial services to everyone living or working in our Common Bond area of Annandale & Eskdale, Nithsdale and the Stewartry. Current membership includes a number of folk from the Glenkens – and the SCU is looking to actively grow in visibility and activity across the region, addressing any perceptions that it is only for people in Dumfries. The SCU benefits from all of the usual government-backed safeguards as members of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, but with one very big difference in how it operates: the principle of a credit union is that you can join a membership society that is run by, and exists to support, its members not shareholders - and it is not seeking to make a profit. The SCU currently offers a Share Account, Junior Saver for children up to 16, a simple Loan Account for those wishing to borrow, and Payroll Deduction for regular savings. Savings and Loans are protected by free life assurance provided by CUNA Insurance Group. Anyone living or working in the Stewartry can join the SCU. The core product offered is a loan of up to three times the savings you have with the Union, with interest charged at only 1% per month - much lower than credit cards. Aside from the core work of providing reasonable and helpful financial products, the SCU has also undertaken a range of financial education workshops in local schools – including Dalry school – seeking to instil good financial practice and savvy into our region’s schoolchildren. Based in an office in Dumfries, the SCU runs a website with information and allowing member deposits and withdrawals www. solwaycreditunion.co.uk SCU will also be launching a new app in the next 12 months, giving members the full range of banking options through their phone. If you think any of the Solway Credit Union’s services would be of interest to you, please do get in touch, and we are also always looking for members to join the board of trustees. SCU administrator, Anne, is available for any queries on info@solwaycreditunion. co.uk or 01387 267200 or you can follow Solway Credit Union on Facebook and Twitter. McNabb Laurie Return of the Alternative Games Finally, New Galloway was able to once again host the Games after a two year enforced absence during Covid. First held in Parton in 1977, the popular event is now celebrating its 45th anniversary and attracted record crowds to New Galloway Park on Sunday 7 August. Many regular participants returned and were joined by lots of willing newbies keen to experience some of the unique events for the first time. The reigning Gird ‘n’ Cleek World Champion, Arthur Harfield, had been patiently waiting to defend his title and had even appeared on TV with Susan Calman during his reign. However, he was assured of some feisty competition with several other former champions present, and the heats provided some great entertainment for the spectators. When it came to the final, the audience was in for a surprise as young Elizabeth, winner of the Primary Girls final, became the youngest ever World Champion. The Tractor Pull attracted a large number of entries, as did the Quad Bike Pull for the juniors, with both young and old showing their strength and some impressive times recorded. The Mungo Bryson Memorial Trophy for the men’s Tossin’ the Sheaf competition was retained by George Dempster, and the ladies' Tossin’ the Sheaf saw Dawn Spernagel retaining the gold. The ever-popular Snail Racing attracted a big crowd with curious punters rolling up to support, encourage and even bribe the snails in each of the three races during the afternoon. The Classic Car Show was well supported once again and attracted a very impressive lineup of vehicles. The Connecting in the Communities project organised a miniCommonwealth Games for the younger competitors which was very popular, and there were stalls with local produce for hungry, or thirsty, punters. After 45 years, the Alternative Games continues to be enjoyed by locals and visitors of all ages and this year welcomed competitors and spectators from as far afield as South Africa, Slovakia, France and Canada. The organisers would like to thank everyone who helped to make the Games a success once again and everyone who came along to spectate and compete on the day. Brian Edgar Spectators seated in the natural amphitheatre of New Galloway Park watching the Tractor Pull, photographed by Eric Broadhurst. ...I heard that someone tried to cheat in the snail race by removing the shell. Apparently he thought it would make the snail faster, but it just made it more sluggish... Anon Glenkens Gazette HEDGEHOG ALERT If a hedgehog is out during the day, it is in need of help; big or small, they should not be out in daylight hours. Alison, who runs a local hedgehog rescue centre, has a plea for Glenkens residents: "If you see a hedgehog out in the day, don’t wait for tomorrow - please act straight away and help the hedgehog's life. At this time of year there are late litters who will not have had enough time to put on the weight they need to see them through the cold winter (they need to weigh at least 600g). "Please pick them up and keep them warm and dry until they can be collected - call me any time on 07722 516 514 and I'll come and get them." page 28 Glenkens Treasures An idea for a new section Glenkens Treasures - has been suggested by a Gazette reader inspired by David Bartholomew's 28 years' service to the communities of the Glenkens and his part in finding the Galloway Hoard treasures. The theme is that there are many people in our communities who often go "above and beyond" in helping others – checking in on elderly neighbours, helping at community events, raising money for good causes; the list is endless. We would like to celebrate this kindness to others through the Gazette and ask readers to get in touch to nominate people they feel fit the bill. So please tell us who you would nominate, and why, giving your own name and contact details, and we'll be in touch. You can email glenkensgazette@hotmail. co.uk or drop written nominations in to the CatStrand, marked Glenkens Treasures. Glenkens Gazette page 29 BUSINESS in the SPOTLIGHT Tarnia Hrynczyszyn qualified as a massage therapist in 2006. After a pause in her training, Tarnia's passion was rekindled in 2017. She says: "Whilst training for my first trail marathon I sustained a series of injuries which spurred me on to studying massage in a more in-depth way, to help me gain an understanding of what was causing my injuries and how I could continue to progress with running." Tarnia qualified in Sports and Remedial Massage with the Western School of massage at the Caledonian University and also studied with the highly acclaimed Western School of Massage. "I aim to continue my studies next year, taking their advanced remedial training courses," says Tarnia. Glenkens Sports & Remedial Massage is the name of Tarnia's business, through which she offers a range of treatments, specialising in sports massage techniques which can help reduce injury time, relieve pain and improve range of movement. A service of mobile appointments is available during the week within the Glenkens area, or appointments can be booked for Mondays and Sundays in Castle Douglas. Tarnia goes on to say: "I believe in keeping my prices at as reasonable a rate as possible as I truly believe massage is good for people's overall wellbeing, with daily stress having a way of manifesting itself in the form of aches and pains." To find out more or make an appointment call 07410 623 408, email glenkenssportsmassage@gmail.com or visit Tarnia's Facebook page @Glenkens Sports & Remedial Massage. Our proposals to repower the first phase of Windy Standard Wind Farm would see the removal of 36 turbines and up to eight wind turbines erected in their place. As a result, we have been focusing on the decommissioning process and identifying solutions to repurpose or recycle the blades. We have formed a partnership with Ayrshire based 360 Safety and Training. As a local provider of specialist safety and technical training to the wind industry, we hope to work together to incorporate repurposed turbine components into the delivery of wind turbine training courses. The partnership allows us to contribute components to a local company and support the training of a local workforce, all whilst ensuring that our repowering proposals are helping to give turbine components a new lease of life. Further information can be found at www. windystandardwindfarm.co.uk. Keep in touch: communities@fredolsen.com / 07435 763 900 Advertisement WINDY STANDARD WIND FARM Glenkens Gazette CPR Training in New Galloway Following a very well-attended first CPR and defibrillator training session, a further session is being offered on Saturday 15 October. This will provide a more in-depth introduction for those new to it all, with an opportunity for some hands-on practice and tuition. The session will be run by Christine Rankin and Dr Elizabeth Kelly, from 10am to 12noon at New Galloway Town Hall, and there will be coffee and biscuits available. Please note that places are limited to 12 so if you are interested in attending, please contact Christine Rankin at dalgowantraing@aol.com or 01644 420 259/07749 212 201. GLENKENS YOUTH Coming up this Autumn.. Ages 11-19 YOUTH MEET-UPS Mondays 7.00 - 8.30pm Dalry Community Centre Sports, food, crafts, table-tennis, a space to meet friends September: 5th, 12th (19th - Cancelled), 26th October: 3rd, 10th FREE OCTOBER HOLIDAY TRIPS Monday 17th: Mostly Ghostly Tour, Dumfries Monday 24th: Flip Out trampolining, Glasgow Booking essential! Book at tinyurl.com/GYoctober Monday 31st October 7.00 - 8.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Music, games, hot dogs.. To join the Glenkens Youth Whatsapp group for updates or for more info message Olivia on 07719 708 668 LING Youth Work is funded by Glenkens & District Trust to help young people in the Glenkens access sports, outdoor and youth-led activities and have a say in the community. . For info contact Youth Activity & Development Worker Olivia Donald at youthwork.ling@gmail.com Veg, bread, cakes, pies, preserves meat, eggs, cheese, pasta, scones & more! page 30 Watson Bird Update Please check out our new website at www.watsonbirds.org You can now also buy postcards, letter cards and small posters of Donald Watson’s paintings in the shop at CatStrand. In the Watson Room at the Smiddy in Balmaclellan, you will find a display of most of the books that Donald wrote or illustrated - please feel free to visit. Roger Crofts McMillan Coffee Afternoon Thursday 6 October 2pm till 4pm at Hair by Jayne, Dalry - Great raffle prizes All welcome - will be great to see you! KNOCKVENNIE HALL At a village hall meeting, the current crisis in energy and the cost of living was discussed in light of how the hall might have additional benefits to our community. Knockvennie Hall serves the community of the Urr Valley between Bridge of Urr and Corsock and Parton. The villages have their own halls, so Knockvennie is often thought of as a village hall without a village. We have publicised the new snooker club which now has two good quality tables housed in the refurbished interior of the hall. We are offering a ‘heat bank’ where folk in the area who might be experiencing financial difficulties (or not) are welcome to access the hall to socialise, make tea or coffee and have a blether, game of cards or play some dominos; relax in a warm place, meet folk. If you would like to access the Hall please contact Jonathan (01556 650 187), Jerry (01556 650 505) or Andrew (01556 690 677) and we can arrange to open up for you. We are still looking for snooker players - table hire is currently £4 per hour. Please contact one of the above to arrange a visit and try the tables out. Andrew Pyle THE NOURISHING SPACE HEALTH COACHING LIVE A LONG LIFE WELL Shop online for seasonal, local, good food. openfoodnetwork.org.uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop Order from midday Friday to midday Tuesday for delivery or collection the following Friday 14 - 18th Oct 21st Oct 28 - 1st Nov 4th Nov 11 - 15th Nov 18th Nov 25 - 29th Nov 2nd Dec Delivery within the Glenkens or collect from Dalry Follow us on Facebook or get in touch for more information lesley@propagate.org.uk | 07587122151 Struggling with menopause? Get in touch to see how I can help! 07587122151 | lesley@thenourishingspace.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 31 FREE COURSE Alastair Lamb, who lives in Dalry, has been working on a brand new online course with his company, The Dream Clinic. "The aim is to unleash the people with an idea or dream to make our world a better place," says Alastair. He continues: "We'd like to start at home so are giving away 100 free places to Gazette readers." You can take a look at the course and get the discount at www.udemy.com/ course/delivering-big-ideas-by-the-dreamclinic/?couponCode=GLENKENS22 or if you want to know more email alastair.l.lamb@gmail.com Glass Recycling Points • Balmaclellan Stores, Balmaclellan • Memorial Hall, St Michael's Road, Crossmichael CROSSMICHAEL THERAPY CENTRE - Your Health is Important - Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is probably best known for its treatment of pain. However, they can be used to treat a broader variety of conditions, from achy joints to anxiety, skin troubles to insomnia, acupuncture could help change the way you manage some of life’s health challenges. • Kirkland Street, St John's Town of Dalry Matthew Pajo has been studying and practising Chinese medicine for over 25 years and has attained a Bachelor Health Science and Master Applied Science in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. • New Galloway, Carson's Knowe Car Park As a highly skilled and trusted clinician, Matthew uses safe, effective, and natural treatments that can bring relief from acute and chronic conditions. • St David Street, Kirkpatrick Durham ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) Matthew is a member of the British Acupuncture Federation and the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians. To make an appointment call 07786 079 845 or email info@matthewpajo.co.uk For more information visit www.matthewpajo.co.uk Psychological Therapy Amber Dunlop-Pajo has spent over 20 years working as a psychologist and has attained a Bachelor Psychology (Hons) and Master Psychology (Health) and is a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society. Amber specialises in Women’s Health as well as depression, stress, anxiety and has a focus on health psychology. Contact Amber on 07389 713 106 or info@gallowaycounselling.co.uk For more information visit www.gallowaycounselling.co.uk Crossmichael Therapy Centre, The Old School, Crossmichael, DG7 3AP 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS General Medical & Dispensing Services FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY The Surgery High Street New Galloway Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm Sat 2-2.30 pm Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm  01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS  FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 Glenkens Gazette The Community Kindness Cupboard outside Dalry Library has home baking in every Thursday. page 32 WHERE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB LISTINGS Dumfries & Galloway! What's Going on @DGWGO on Facebook; What's Going On Glenkens @WGOGlenkens on Facebook; Glenkens Gazette @GlenkensNews on Facebook – once on the page for any of these, use the search function to look for jobs. The Glenkens' largest employer, Natural Power Consultants Ltd, also have a jobs page - www.naturalpower.com/uk/careers KEY GLENKENS CONTACTS LOCAL DOCTORS’ SURGERY Glenkens Medical Practice - 01644 420 234 COMMUNITY CONTACTS • Balmaclellan: Martin Warnock 07939 261 391 • Carsphairn: Liz Holmes - 07718 358 160 • Corsock: Julie Garton - 07769 647 702 • Kirkpatrick Durham: Heather 07551 639 629 • Crossmichael: Richard Middleton - 01556 670 691 • Dalry: Graham West - 01644 430 503 • Mossdale: Shop - 01644 450 281 • New Galloway: 07741 656 601 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 FOOD DELIVERIES • Galloway Foodbank - 07730 788 335 • Glenkens Food Hub - www. openfoodnetwork.org.uk/ glenkens-food-hub/shop • Ballards Butchers - 01556 502502 (they also deliver groceries) • Grierson’s Butchers: 01556 502 637 • Henderson’s Butchers: 01556 502 654 • Mitchell’s Greengrocers: 01556 502 077 • Fleet Fish: call 07966 103 912 to find out about Glenkens delivery days • Roan’s Dairy - 01556 620 374 LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Glenkens Community Shop: Contact Liz Lewis on 07530 804 217 or drop by the shop on Main Street, Dalry Glenkens Scout Group: Contact Heather McIntosh on 01644 420 375 Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact newgallowaytownhall@gmail.com Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail. com or 01644 430 521 Dalry Town Hall: Contact Lesley Blissett at lesleyblissett52@gmail.com Glenkens Community Centre: Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact ngce5000@gmail.com or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins at julia.higgins55@outlook.com CatStrand: Contact Fiona Limbrey at fiona@ catstrand.com or 01644 420 374 or pop in to the CatStrand Schools: Visit the school office or call Dalry Primary on 01644 430 105 (for Nursery/ELC too), Dalry Secondary on 01644 430 259 or Kells on 01644 420 340 Carsphairn Heritage Initiative: Contact Karen Hall at carsphairnhi@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie at mcnabb. laurie@dumgal.gov.uk If you would like to add your community organisation to this list please get in touch with the Gazette - contact details are on the back page. CHURCH TIMES CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sunday Services Balmaclellan: 11am - 2 Oct, 6 Nov Carsphairn: 11am - 9 Oct, 13 Nov Kells: 11am - 16 Oct, 30 Oct, 20 Nov Dalry: 11am - 23 Oct, 27 Nov Special Services Harvest Thanksgiving (11am) & Lunch (12noon), 2 Oct, Balmaclellan Village Hall Communion, 23 Oct, 11am, Dalry Church Remembrance Sunday, Carsphairn (10.30am in the church), Balmaclellan (11am at the war memorial), Kells (11am at the war memorial), Dalry (12noon at the war memorial) SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: St Margaret's Church, Kenbridge Road, New Galloway, DG7 3RP Sundays: 10.30am Sung Eucharist, followed by coffee/tea Visitors welcome - for information, including directions, please see our website www.stmargaretsnewgalloway.org or call our vestry secretary, Christine Rankin, on 01644 420 259. Glenkens Gazette page 33 GALLOWAY COMMUNITY TRANSPORT www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org email gct@catstrand.com phone 01644 420374 mobile 07841 512449 October - November 2022 Regular Services GK2 Glenkens-Castle Douglas (Tesco) Wednesday Evenings (Registered Route) Out EXCURSIONS 1 October 2022 Saturday Return 19:00 Dalry (Underhill) 21:15 19:05 New Galloway 21:10 19:15 Mossdale 21:00 19:25 Laurieston 20:50 19:30 Townhead of Greenlaw 20:47 19:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 20:37 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:35 Booking not required Glenkens to Newton Stewart Fortnightly - Tuesday mornings Outward Pickups: Dalry (Underhill) 09:30 New Galloway (Town Hall) 09:35 CatStrand) 09:37 To Aldi Return Pickup Newton Stewart (Aldi Car Park) 11:30 Return fare £3.50 Advance booking required. Member Hire THE TRANQUIL GARDENS Acorn Bank House & Garden, Temple Sowerby, Cumbria Explore the working watermill and discover the house and the industrial history of the wildlife grounds. Plants for sale. Refreshments available. Admission £9 (NTS members free) AND Larch Cottage Nursery, Melkinthrope, Cumbria Plants for sale. Refreshments available. Fare £10 SOLD OUT. Please phone the CatStrand (01644 420374) if you wish to be on the waiting list in case of any cancellations. __________________________________________ 15 October 2022 Saturday The Creative Crafts Autumn Show with Creative Crafts for Christmas SECC, Glasgow The Creative Craft Show is a haven for knitting, cross stitch, paper crafting, jewellery & dressmaking and stitching enthusiasts, offering all the very latest supplies, ideas and innovations in the hobby world! You’ll find everything from kits, charts and patterns to fabrics, yarns, threads and buttons plus opportunities to gain advice from industry experts. Admission £11 at the venue; discount for online booking Pickups: 0800 Kirkcudbright (Harbour Square Bus Stop); 0825 Castle Douglas (British Legion, Market Hill); 0835 Crossmichael (Shop); 0900 New Galloway (CatStrand); 0910 Dalry (Underhill); 0925 Carsphairn (Shop) Fare £10 For more info please see the website: https://www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org/excursions GCT has 16-, 15-, and 8-seater minibuses and a f ully wheelchair accessible electric car available f or hire by community organisations. For inf ormation about membership and terms and conditions of hire see the GCT website or phone 07841 512449. GCT Ebike Club If you are a local Glenkens resident and are interested in joining the GCT Ebike Club please see https://www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org/gctebike-club phone 07704 662925 or email jon@catstrand.com Drivers Needed Galloway Community Transport needs your help to provide a wide range of community transport services across the Stewartry and beyond. MINIBUS DRIVING Minibus drivers with D1 (101 or by test) are needed to do volunteer and paid driving for our wide range of member community groups. PATIENT TRANSPORT We also urgently need drivers with their own cars for our patient transport service. Our volunteer patient transport drivers receive a generous mileage reimbursement and the satisfaction of providing a vital service to vulnerable people in our communities. Interested? Email gct@catstrand.com or phone 07841 512449 Glenkens Gazette WHAT'S ON page 34 October/November OCTOBER Fri 2 to 30, Chair Yoga, 2-3pm, Smiddy, Balmaclellan Sat 2, Men’s Shed Open Day, Men’s Shed, Balmaclellan, 10am-3pm, see p17 Mon 3, Dalry Community Council meeting, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall Tue 4 to 25, Photography in Focus, 10am-12pm, Smiddy, Balmaclellan Tue 4 to 25, Tai Chi, 10am-12pm, New Galloway Town Hall Tue 4 (for 6 weeks), Digital Art Drawing Course, 4.30pm, Smiddy, Balmaclellan Wed 5 to 27, Ukulele Workshops, 6pm-7.30pm, Smiddy, Balmaclellan Thu 6 to 28, 10am -12.30pm, Smiddy, Balmaclellan Thu 6 & 20, Play Readings, 7-9pm, Smiddy, Balmaclellan Thu 6, Chance to Dance, 6pm, Smiddy, Balmaclellan Fri 7, John Fenner: Joie de Vivre Jazz, Lochinvar Hotel, 8pm Fri 7, Paragon presents All In, 9.30am- 4.30pm, CatStrand Fri 7, Tommy Smith, 7.30pm, Crossmichael Church Sat 8, Glenkens Producers Market, Dalry Town Hall, 10am-1pm Sat 8, Art Explorers, 10am, Smiddy, Balmaclellan Sun 9, Carsphairn Community Woodland Rural Skills & Crafting Day, 11am-3pm, Muirdrochwood Forest Mon 10, Young Creatives Ambassadors, 5pm, CatStrand Mon 10, Dalry Town Hall Management Meeting, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall Thu 13, Open Mic Night, 7-10pm, CatStrand Thu 13, Ken Words: Glenkens Writer's' Cafe, 7pm, CatStrand Fri 14, CatStrand Late Night Opening with Men’s Shed Quiz Night, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 15, LGBTQ Friendly ‘Safe Space Café’, 5-7pm, CatStrand Café Sat 15, CPR & Defibrillator Training, New Galloway Town Hall, booking essential - see p30 with Youth Open Stage Night, 7.30pm Sat 15, GTI Bus Trip: Creative Crafts Autumn Show, Glasgow, see p33 Sat 5, Art Explorers, 10am, Smiddy, Balmaclellan Sun 16, CatStrand Singers: Singing the Galloway Glens, CatStrand, 4pm, see p6 Sun 6, High Tea Tunes Special: Esther Swift, 2pm, CatStrand Wed 19, Film Night: King Richard, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall, refreshments available, book at www.gcat.scot or email jimcreid@hotmail.com Thu 20, Bancroft & Lyne, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 22, Art Explorers, 10am, Smiddy, Balmaclellan Sat 22, Community Café, 10am12pm, Dalry Town Hall Sun 23, Autumn Walk in Nature, 10am-12.30pm, see p25 Tue 25, Pudding Club, 6.30-8.30pm, see p25 Wed 26, Cutting Edge Theatre: Downs With Love, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 28, Performance Collective Stranraer present Unsupervised Adulting, 7.30pm, CatStrand Mon 31, Halloween Party, 4.306.30pm (under 11s) & 7-8.30pm (1119yrs) Dalry Town Hall, see p3 Mon 31, Young Creatives Ambassadors, 5pm, CatStrand NOVEMBER Tue 1, Random Writers, 4.30pm, Dalry Library Tue 1 & Wed 2, National Theatre of Scotland Presents: Enough of Him by May Sumbwanyambe, 7.30-9pm, CatStrand Wed 2, Film Night: Biggest Little Farm, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall, refreshments available, book at www. gcat.scot or email jimcreid@hotmail. com Thu 3, Chance to Dance, 6pm, CatStrand Fri 4, Song Share, Dalry Town Hall, 8-11pm Fri 4, deadline for comments on the consultation for closure of Carsphairn School must be submitted to statutoryconsultation@dumgal.gov.uk before 5pm, see p22 Fri 4, CatStrand Late Night Opening Mon 7, Dalry Community Council Meeting, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall Tue 8, Devising Physical Theatre by Jordan & Skinner, 7-9pm, CatStrand Wed 9, The Time Machine: A Radical Feminist Retelling, 7.30pm, CatStrand Thu 10, Ken Words: Glenkens Writer's' Cafe, 7pm, CatStrand Thu 10, Kris Drever, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 12, Glenkens Producers Market, Dalry Town Hall, 10am-1pm Mon 14, Dalry Town Hall Management meeting, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall Wed 16, Film Night: Operation Mincemeat, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall, refreshments available, book at www. gcat.scot or email jimcreid@hotmail. com Thu 17, Chance to Dance, 6pm, CatStrand Sat 19, Ensemble Hesperi: Concert, 7pm, CatStrand Sat 19, Ensemble Hesperi: Playing Sessions, 11am & 2pm, CatStrand Sat 19, Art Explorers, 10am, Smiddy, Balmaclellan Sat 19, Community Café, 10am12pm, Dalry Town Hall Fri 25, Fraser Fifield & Graeme Stephen, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 26, Random Writers, 2pm, Wigtown Festival Company, CatStrand Sat 26, closing date for Glenkens Community Shop grants, application forms available at the shop from end Oct, see p15 Sun 27, Christmas Arts & Crafts Fair, Dalry Town Hall, 11am-3pm, see p28 Mon 28, Young Creatives Ambassadors, 5pm, CatStrand DECEMBER Sun 4, Christmas Fayre, Sunday, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn Thu 1 & Fri 2, CatStrand Late Night Opening with Xmas Shopping Nights Glenkens Gazette page 35 REGULAR EVENTS Balmaclellan Village Hall: Tuesday Afternoon Teas, 1st Tues each month, to book email warburton. julie@googlemail.com Glenkens Crafters, Wed 10am12noon, for info contact julia. higgins55@outlook.com Books in Balmaclellan Community Library, Wed 10.30–12.30 & 5.307pm; Fri 5.30-7.30pm; Sat 10.30am -12.30pm (tea & coffee available on Sat). Balmaclellan Blether, 3rd Thu each month, contact warburton.julie@ googlemail.com Glenkens Art Workshop, Thu 2-4pm, contact t_leach1@sky.com Easiobics, Tue & Fri 9.30-10.30pm, contact mlfagan@live.co.uk Circuits, Sat 8-9am, contact John 07544 713 586 Kettelbells, Mon & Tue 6-7pm, contact John 07544 713 586 Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn: Craft Group, Fri 10am-12noon, includes tea & coffee, Lagwyne Hall Bairn Banter; family stay & play session, 0-7 years, Sat 10-11.45am, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn CatStrand, New Galloway: Margaret Morris Movement: Health Play (age 3-7), Mon (during term time), 3.45-4.30pm Margaret Morris Movement: Children’s Grades & Youth Dance (age 8-15), Mon (during term time), 4.30-5.30pm Youth Volunteers (age 11-16), Mon monthly, 5.30–7.30pm Scriptless Drama Club (age 11-19), Tue, 5.30–6.30pm 6+), contact @Facebook KMANews or kmabrian@gmail.com Newton Stewart Bus Service to Tesco, Wednesday evenings Gentle Yoga, Fri 5.45-6.45pm, contact kathyr64@hotmail.co.uk A Chance to Dance, Thu bi-weekly, 6–8pm Informal Family Badminton, (net and racquets but no line markings), New Galloway Town Hall, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Dance Weekenders (age 12+), Sat monthly, 1–4pm Art Explorers, Sat monthly, 10-11am (age 5–8) & 11.15am–12.30pm (age 8–12) CatStrand Youth Players, meet weekly, contact briangm@catstrand.com New Galloway Town Hall: Please note that, during ongoing works in the town hall, entry will be through the back emergency exit door and some activities will be transferring elsewhere. Crafty Corner with tea & biscuits, Mon 2-4pm, contact Kristina on 07789 680 468 Glenkens Youth Activity Group, ages 11-19, Mon 7-8.30pm, currently held at Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, see p30, contact Olivia on youthwork.ling@ gmail.com or text 07719 708 668) LING Lunches, Tue, 12.30-2pm. No need to book, currently held at Kitty's Tea Room, opposite NG Town Hall, contact angie on communityinclusion. LING@gmail.com Sports Evenings, indoor bowling & table tennis, Tues 7-9pm, drop in or contact Ray on 01644 420 438 Tai Chi, possibly suspended during works, contact Ju-lie on gentletaichigroup@gmail.com Wee Messy Crafters, Wed, 1-2pm, contact weemessycrafters@gmail.com Zumba, Wed 6.30-7.20pm & 7.258.15pm, contact samantha.rushton@ hotmail.co.uk - booking essential Martial Arts, Thur 5.30-6.30pm (beginners & tots) & 7-9pm (age Dalry Library & Customer Service Centre Main Street, Dalry, Tel: 01644 430 234 or 01556 502 643 Tuesday: For books and other walk-in services: 2-5pm Friday: For NEC Bus Pass and Blue Badge appointments and PCs: 11.30am – 12.30pm; for books and other walk-in services: 1 -4.30pm. Appointments can be booked in the library or on 01387 260 196. Dalry Library: Random Writers (age 12+), Thu biweekly, 3.45–5pm Glenkens Book Group, last Friday of each month, 2pm, call June to book on 01644 420 361 Dalry Town Hall: Tai Chi, video-led instruction, Mon, 2-3pm, contact lesleyblissett52@gmail. com Dog Training, Tue, 7pm, contact Eric Broadhurst on 07831 590 822 Song Share, 1st Friday each month, 8-11pm, contact anne.chaurand@ btinternet.com Various: Crossmichael Heritage Centre, open Wed & Fri, 1.30-4.30pm Cub Scouts, Wed 6.15-7.30pm, Scout Hall, New Galloway Glenkens Community Shop, open Wed, Fri & Sat, 10am- 4pm Knockvennie Hall Heat Bank & Snooker Club, contact Andrew on 01556 690 677 Outdoor Bowls, Dalry, contact Fiona Ramsay on 01644 430 587 Table Tennis, (available 24/7), Dalry Snooker, (available 24/7), Dalry Indoor Bowls, (October to March), Dalry Badminton, (available 24/7), Dalry For details for table tennis, snooker, indoor bowls and badminton contact Gary Blissett on 01644 430 521. USEFUL NUMBERS: ● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000 ● Police, non-emergency: 101 ● Doctor: 01644 420 234 ● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24 ● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000 Glenkens Gazette page 36 END OF AN ERA On the last Sunday in July, over 100 faithful folk from all the Glenkens churches gathered together in Dalry Church for the Revd Dr David Bartholomew’s last service before his retirement. David has served for 28 years as Church of Scotland Minister for the Glenkens, which includes the churches of Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Dalry and Kells. The uplifting service, albeit bittersweet, was enriched by the Glenkens Choir, led by organist and choir master, Geoff Davidson. David and Heidi moved to the manse in Dalry in 1994, where their children Fiona, Jamie and Stuart were all born, raised and schooled. During the service, David reminisced about his time in the Glenkens starting with his first communion service at Dalry which was followed later in the day by a dash to the Cresswell for daughter Fiona’s birth. He and Heidi were so touched by how delighted his new congregations were to have a family in the manse – they received over 200 cards which they still have today. David stressed that he had always tried to be a minister to the whole population of the Glenkens, not just church members – one parishioner pointed out afterwards that “David has always been there for everyone” whether regular church goers or not. As well as baptisms, weddings and funerals, there have been prayer groups, Alpha courses, Sunday Schools, children’s holiday clubs, and social events such as Quiz Nights and Beetle Drives. Members from each of the four churches gave personal tributes, which included memories such as the Easter dawn services, Carols by Candlelight, and an appreciation of David and Heidi having dedicated such a huge part of their lives to the Glenkens communities. On a lighter note, it was remembered that at a ‘Carsphairn’s Got Talent’ evening, David provided an entertaining turn as the Revd I M Jolly! Other personal touches during the service included a prayer and blessing written by Alan Sidaway, and David leaving the church to a farewell march specially composed for the occasion by Geoff Davidson. The service was followed by a large gathering in Dalry Town Hall with presentations and a buffet lunch. Gerald Bell's words of appreciation were followed by a presentation by Ian Knox, Session Clerk, of gifts from church members and the community which included a framed picture of the Holy Linn. On behalf of Carsphairn church, Irene McCreath also presented a gift and lastly Marion Bone presented a bouquet of flowers to Heidi who has supported David throughout their time in the Glenkens. Interim Moderator, Revd Mark Smith (see article on p26), then said Grace and the buffet lunch was served, allowing folk to mingle, chat and reminisce. When the Covid pandemic hit our shores, the various lockdowns included all places of worship. David and Heidi David in Dalry Church giving his last service before retiring. rose to the challenge and started recording and filming services which were uploaded onto YouTube and available to all. Heidi’s technical and photographic skills provided a stunning backdrop of the 800sq kilometres of the Glenkens, accompanied by inspirational music, while David led the services with prayer and Bible readings. As well as providing spiritual sustenance to Glenkens church goers, these videos allowed the beauty of the Glenkens and Galloway to be shared across the whole world. There are now over 100 services on the church YouTube channel for the years ahead, a truly magnificent legacy for us all from the couple. Glenkens Church Community Here at the Glenkens Gazette, we extend our best wishes to David and Heidi as they embark on retirement in the Borders. We would also like to thank David for donating his archive collection of Gazettes, which date right back to the first edition, to us. These will be available for members of the community to peruse - please get in touch if you would like to look through our past editions. Gordon McAdam Plumbing & Heating 22 Kirkland Street St John’s Town of Dalry 01644 430 393 07834 321 789 WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Editing & Design: sarah.ade@gmail.com DEC/JAN COPY DEADLINE: 5 NOV The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No SC032050 The role of the Gazette is to represent the voice of the community and does not represent the views of GCAT.  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 132 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_132 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource GCAT Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2022 Description An account of the resource Editor: Sarah Ade https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/278/GlenkensGazette131.pdf c45d85227208fb5eb6c4253b335e88e7 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 131 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Corsock, Crossmichael, Kirkpatrick Durham, Laurieston, Mossdale, New Galloway, Parton and St John’s Town of Dalry August/September 2022 ISSUE 131 FREE ORDER LOCAL FOOD ONLINE! There is now a way to order locally-produced food online - and have it delivered direct to your door! The ease of use of today's online supermarket shopping, accentuated in our rural areas during the pandemic, means that convenience really is king when it comes to buying food, and it's tough to offer this service when it comes to shopping local. However, here in the Glenkens we've managed it with the creation of the Glenkens Food Hub. The knowledge that this is something people wanted came from the Glenkens Community Action Plan research which identified the need for a single point for ordering local and sustainably produced food. (You can view the action plan at www. glenkenstrust.org.uk/communityaction-plan). What could be better than knowing you're supporting your friends and neighbours in their food business, and that the food you are buying is as fresh as can be; from just round the corner grazed, grown or made - and having it delivered straight to your door? The food hub offers a hyper-local food chain solution giving food sovereignty to those who produce, distribute and consume our food. It also helps tackle the The Glenkens Food Hub in action - Abi, Tamsin and issue of greenhouse gas Linda prepare boxes to be delivered to local customers. emissions present in long, global supply chains. This benefits the community Friday 2 September or 16 to 20 by improving health and wellbeing, September for delivery Friday 23 reducing social isolation and building September. community wealth. To order, or to sign up for the hub's The hub is currently a collective of 12 newsletter and hear about future local producers, all within 30 miles of dates and new producers, visit https:// the Glenkens. The August food hub is openfoodnetwork.org.uk/glenkens-foodopen 12-16 August for delivery on hub/shop Friday 19 August. Turn to page 4 to see the current The September food hub moves list of local producers... to twice a month, and you can order from 26 to 30 August for delivery Glenkens Food Month is Back This year's theme is 'Celebrating Our Local Food’ and we're looking forward to working with organisations and food businesses across the Glenkens to create a mouthwatering programme of events. ceilidh and much much more – all culminating in live music accompanied by fresh local food at the Ken Bridge Hotel on the 24 September to tie in So far on the calendar is a plant & produce swap, a local food feast and film screenings that will really make you think about where our food comes from. There will be a fungi forage, community ‘glut’ tables, burger & beer at the CatStrand, the Balmaclellan A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative with celebrations for the bicentenary of the Ken Bridge. The GCAT Connecting in Communities team is delighted to be taking over the baton of organising the September food month from New Galloway Community Enterprises and is looking forward to building on the excellent work done over the last three years by community engagement workers Sam Rushton and Hayley Edgar. Propagate remains a key partner, with their focus on healthy and resilient food systems (Propagate are also a key partner in the Glenkens Food Hub initiative - see article above). Look out for more information about the Glenkens Food Month from early August we look forward to seeing you there! The Connecting in Communities Team www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 The Land Use Conversation Last issue's Land Use Focus drew together a selection of pertinent local land use issues highlighted by some excellent authors, sparking much discussion. Continuing the land use conversation and trying to figure out how the Glenkens can ensure a community voice in a changing world - and fast - there are a number of strands on the horizon. There is an opportunity for the Glenkens to participate in the process of creating the Scottish Government's vehicle for communities to be involved in land use decisions, Rural Land Use Partnerships (RLUPs) - see p12 for more on this - but will the creation of this system be in time to support the Glenkens with the pace of current land use change? Another strand is community ownership of areas of land. Carsphairn now has its own section of woodland in community ownership, through the recent acquisition of a portion of Muirdrochwood forest by Carsphairn Community Woodland Ltd (see pages 10-11 and 25 for further information on CCW). Can our communities become more active in land ownership? The Glenkens & District Community Action Plan's priority of a community farm and community food production is an area which is also being looked into. Is there a way that the community can purchase land which can then be held in stewardship and used for the benefit of our communities in order to support local food production? Are there other ways our communities can become the key stakeholders they need to be in the land use decisions which will affect all our futures? These are some of the questions being asked, and hopefully we'll find some answers soon. NB Apologies to the authors of the articles on the page opposite as this page was omitted in error from the printed version of last issue's Glenkens Land Use Focus. GALLOWAY IS NOT ALONE On 30 June, the Galloway Glens Scheme and Leeming & Paterson hosted an online event that allowed us to hear from speakers working on a local and national level, all with an interest in how land use is managed and influenced in Galloway. We heard that the South of Scotland has been selected as a pilot for a Regional Land Use Partnership (RLUP), highlighting timescales and what this could achieve. The Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere gave an overview of how land use can be set in the wider debate of sustainability, and we heard how art can help us better understand our relationship with land use. The event also included a presentation from Andrew Thin, chair of the Scottish Land Commission, talking about how we can influence land use legislation in Scotland. All the speakers contributed different angles to the debate, and I am very grateful for their time, and for the questions and input of the audience. Since the event, one overall point has stuck with me: Galloway is not alone. The concerns being raised in our area, from ‘off-market’ land transactions and local owners being priced out from purchase, through to community disengagement and unintended consequences of emerging global carbon markets, are actually being felt across the whole of Scotland. These challenges are not unique to Galloway. The Scottish Land Commission play a vital role. They have the ear of Scottish Ministers, they compile input from across the country and try to fix what people tell them is wrong. It just so happens that the week after the event a Scottish Government consultation was launched entitled ‘Land Reform in a Net Zero Nation’. This is looking ahead to the proposed new Land Reform Bill which has a stated aim to "ensure that the public interest is considered on transfers of particularly large-scale land holdings, and we will aim to introduce a pre-emption in favour of community buy-out where the public interest test applies…" The new consultation wants to know your answer to a range of questions including: • Is a ‘large-scale’ landholding one that is more than 3,000 hectares in size, or should it be smaller? • Should large-scale landowners be required to undergo a ‘public interest test’? • Should this measurement be applied to the seller or the buyer of the land? • Should an owner be required to notify community groups in advance of their intention to sell land? While hearing the speakers on the night I realised that Galloway’s challenges are woven into our national story. We are not alone but sometimes we are seen further from the land use change ‘frontline’ than we should be. The best way we can address this is by inputting the voices of Galloway into the ‘Land Reform in a Net Zero Nation’ consultation paper. Search for it online and submit your views before 25 September. If "decisions are made by those who show up" then this is our chance. McNabb Laurie, Galloway Glens Scheme WHO SHOULD DECIDE ON LOCAL LAND USE? Glenkens Gazette The current approach to land use in rural Scotland is unbelievably out dated. It is centralised in government departments and agencies. It is fragmented to suit different purposes that are all too often in conflict with each other. It fails to link all of the government’s environmental, climate change, economic and community benefit targets. And the consultations of local interests are often a sham with decisions imposed in spite of our representations. Oh dear, it has to be better than this! What is needed? First, leave the decisions to informed local communities, including local farmers and managers of land, to deliver outcomes which will benefit local natural environments, local landscape and amenity, and of course local communities resource owners. We have the ingredients for making decisions better and involving us. We have a perfectly good national framework - the Land Use Strategy. And this is encouraging the development of Regional Land Use Strategies. We have a world class ethical basis for looking after the land and how each interest group has both rights and responsibilities in taking this forward - the Statement of Land Rights and Responsibilities approved by the Scottish Parliament. Its roll-out is being led by the Scottish Land Commission. We have the challenge of delivering a new basis for supporting food production following Brexit and the promise of a new incentive scheme in 2024. We have also the promise of new environmental legislation on the same time scale. Locally, we are well advanced. We have an excellent local framework - the Glenkens and District Community Action Plan with staff employed to facilitate its achievement. We have an excellent enabling mechanism - the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership which has already led local discussions on land use. We have local understanding of the global and national imperatives for use of the land. There is nothing to stop us deciding for our ourselves. Of course, we need to be sure that the newly elected local councillors and our Holyrood representatives are fully supportive of our efforts. And we do need the support of the national powers that be in future-proofing decisions and actions to favour a mutually supportive contribution to providing local social and economic benefits, redressing climate change, improving biodiversity and landscape amenity. What do we want to achieve? That is not for me to prescribe. However, I am sure there are ingredients shared by the page 3 Surely we want more of this (above) and not more of this (below)... majority of local interests. For example, farming which produces wholesome food for local, as well as wider, consumption on land that provides jobs for future generations, provides shelter for animals through tree planting, that sequesters carbon, and improves soil structure, soil biodiversity and the look of the landscape. Hopefully, this a good starting point. Roger Crofts Wind Farms and the Glenkens Are you aware of what is happening in the Glenkens? Before long, every hilltop between Dalmellington in the northwest, Sanquhar in the northeast and Parton in the south will be covered with giant wind turbines. The approach of the Scottish government to planning permission for onshore wind farms in the area is relentless. Even on those occasions when the Dumfries & Galloway Council has the resources to address developers’ applications, the government rides roughshod over them. Although almost everyone would agree that it is crucial to cut carbon emissions and to strive one way or another for net zero, a balance has to be struck between that and other interests, such as tourism on which the fragile economy of Dumfries & Galloway depends. Our landscape and environment are important to all of us. Dumfries & Galloway has already done far more than its fair share towards green energy, indeed to such an extent that it is a massive exporter of power from the region, largely to England where demand is greatest. By contrast, onshore wind farm development in England depends on the consent of the local communities affected: consent which is almost never forthcoming. There is no need for this headlong rush to cover the hills with wind farms. Even now the grid lacks the capacity to transmit all of the power produced by those which are operational, let alone those which are planned, and ends up having to make huge constraint payments to the wind farm operators. Moreover, back-up is required for times when the wind does not blow; with the government currently setting its face against fossil fuels and conventional nuclear power, some alternative is still needed. Before onshore development proceeds further, there needs to be a comprehensive investigation of the relative merits of other sources of green energy, particularly offshore wind and small nuclear reactors (SMRs – classified as green by the EU), and of the damage which onshore wind farms do to our livelihoods, particularly to tourism. The problem is that once built, an onshore wind farm will almost certainly never be dismantled: the damage is irreversible. In the meantime, it is essential that the voice of local communities in the areas affected is heard. If you want your voice to be heard, contact Save Our Hills Dumfries & Galloway through at www. saveourhillsdumfriesandgalloway.co.uk or find us on Facebook. Iain Milligan, Chairman, Save Our Hills Dumfries & Galloway Glenkens Gazette Revisiting Our History We all know we live in an old part of an old country. Every day we can walk by ruins of old buildings or ageing monuments to people long dead. Our graveyards are ancient; full of tumbled stones and eroding carvings. Cobbles still line some of our streets and break their way up through the tarmac on others. The forests around us have grown up and around villages that most of us have no idea ever existed. Have you ever walked by those ruins, or stopped to catch your breath by one of those monuments, and wondered "what is its story?" Have you ever squinted to read that old engraving and wondered "who was this person really?" Armed with little more than a pile of books from the Local Collection at Dalry Library and my mobile phone, I’ve set out to answer these questions in a new series of videos called Galloway Retold. My aim is to bring the stories of Galloway into the digital age in bite-sized, accessible and entertaining pieces. Starting with the story of Kenmure Castle, I will be releasing one video a week over the summer, and maybe beyond, on my YouTube channel. With thanks to Dumfries Libraries and Archives, these will be available on Facebook, through the new Dumfries & Galloway Heritage Service page, and the page 4 Dumfries & Galloway Libraries Twitter page. Search YouTube for ‘Galloway Retold’ to find my channel directly! Angela Miller Glenkens Men's Shed Dalry Arts & The Shed has been very busy over the last month or two. We recently constructed over 100 nesting boxes for pine martens in conjunction with the Dumfries & Galloway pine marten group. These are now being installed over a large area hopefully in time for next year's breeding season. The Shed members did an excellent job giving their time and expertise for free. The Shed also hosted the third Dumfries Men's Shed network meeting in June. Unfortunately the attendance was down due to the rising Covid rates. However, the Sheds that did attend - Moffat, Newton Stewart and Dalbeattie - were very impressed by how well-run, well-equipped and tidy our Shed was. The food, provided by members and by Connecting in Communities, went down very well and our thanks go to all those who contributed, particularly to Chris Jowsey who, under trying circumstances, kept the event on track. Tom Leach Crafts Fair Dalry Town Hall will be hosting an Arts & Crafts Fair on Sunday 28 August from 11am to 3pm. The fair will have a diverse range of handcrafted pieces of work from a selection of artists, designers and crafters from across the region. Our aim is to establish the Dalry fair as a 'mustsee' attraction in the area - we hope to see you there! Lesley Blissett Glenkens Food Hub Producers Continued from front page... Abi Mordin runs Hidden Veg, a small market garden in Balmaclellan, growing seasonal vegetables, herbs, and fruits. Tom van Rooyen bakes delicious bread, pastries and more at Earth’s Crust Bakery in Castle Douglas. The Ethical Dairy cheese is produced at a forward thinking, sustainable, carbon negative farm whose model is based around treating the animals, the land, their environment and the people who work there with respect and kindness. Irene McCreath is a local farmer and goat aficionado. She produces the most wonderful preserves, both savoury and sweet, from her garden produce, to accompany the delightful duck eggs from her farm. Gillian Smith is a busy farmer, with many interests, with a passion for Zwartbles sheep. She is also an adept chef and cooks up wonderful treats from her courtyard. Barnbarroch organic farm belongs to the McConnell family near Newton Stewart focusing on nature friendly, organic farming to bring you sublime beef products. Suie Fields in Auchencairn is a smallscale family farm, providing fresh and nutritious food, including grass-fed Highland beef, outdoor reared saddleback pork, eggs, fruit and veg. Low Auldgirth is a family run steading, using traditional methods and heritage breeds to farm the land in a way that enriches the environment. They produce slow grown, quality farm products that capture both passion and place. Beans’ Greens is a new venture for Lisa, offering broccoli, radish, sunflower, and pea microgreens. Grown in the Cairn Valley from organic seeds, the microgreens are full of nutrients, some boasting forty times more than their fully grown counterparts. Galloway Scottish Pasta is the brainchild of Andrew and Margaret from the Smiddy Tearooms in New Galloway. They make a slow dried, artisanal pasta from wheat flour, milled in Kirkcaldy, and organic oat flour grown, and milled in Aberdeenshire, with a pinch of Ayrshire sea salt. Baile Curraich, near Dalbeattie, is owned by ex-forces Francis and Luke, who works in social care. They run a small farm, rearing rare and native breeds, in particular Shetland Cattle for both beef and to preserve the breed. They farm with wildlife and conservation in mind. All beef is 100% grass fed, even in winter when they are fed indoors on the farm’s summer grass. Scone Mad is based at Carsphairn Tearooms. Enthusiastic Lindsay makes wacky flavour scones, using local ingredients. Are you feeling hungry yet..? We are looking for more local producers within a 30-mile radius of the Glenkens so do tell us if you produce food which is sustainably grown or made, and would like to be involved in the hub’s online marketplace. Please spread the word amongst the Glenkens community and if possible help those less technically minded to place orders online (www.openfoodnetwork. org.uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop). Lesley Atkins Glenkens Gazette #Tossers Update Reporter - Angelica Sprout WARNING - this article contains graphic images and language some may find distressing Since the last edition there have unfortunately been further recorded sightings of tossing of all kinds. Good people from across the area have been phoning in to report accounts of #tossers but, whilst there is mounting evidence that they are actively operating in the area, we are yet to have a confirmed and verifiable sighting. And as we delve into their secretive world it is becoming increasingly apparent that there are various different sub-species of #tosser, many of whom mingle openly and with little remorse with the normal people of our community. After careful examination of the scattered detritus they leave behind, we are starting to formulate theories with respect to a few distinct #tosser subspecies. #thefurtivetosser - the average #tosser does not like to be observed; it is as if they actually know they are doing wrong. Initial investigations suggest that the majority are remarkably furtive in Dear Gazette, Having read Ted Leeming's comments in the April/May issue of the Gazette about #tossers, I thought maybe I should highlight the #aquatossers; that is the people who think it's ok to toss their rubbish into the nearest waterway – be it loch, river or burn. Lame excuses (when risking a black eye, I have mentioned to page 5 nature, quietly going about their business knowing just how unpopular they are. #theprofessionaltosser - one avenue of exploration is that there are a few persistent offenders that repeatedly cause a material amount of the problem. Without wishing to be alarmist, we are increasingly pursuing a theory that there may even be a small number of professional #tossers in our area who are not only extremely proficient at what they do but are repeat offenders. #thecompleteunrepentanttosser - once unthinkable, it is now thought that the worst #tosser of all may have entered our community and be active across the Glenkens. Belligerent and unrepentant, one preliminary study even suggests they blame others for their actions. Whilst initial evidence appears strong as to their existence it is inconclusive and we will keep you posted as the picture builds. We appeal to everyone to send in photos of any evidence you may see of #tossers. Please do be careful in approaching #tossers though as, from what we can gather, they can present unpleasant and erratic behaviour. We also don't know if tossing is contagious, so keeping a healthy distance is recommended. However, honking your horn and gesturing from the protection of your car may be ok, with the recommended approach being to take a note of their number plate and report the sighting to the police. The Gazette is keen to applaud any voluntary activities relating to the inevitable clean-up required once a #tosser enters an area. Such community spirit is essential to help undermine their activities, but will also help keep our beautiful area clean. We hope to run a special feature on #tosser clean-ups in a future edition and look forward to receiving any images and observations you may have (Gazette email can be found on the back page). culprits that their actions really are not acceptable) include “the rain will wash it away” and “it's all natural stuff, it can't do any harm”. The burn into which the gable end of my house is set regularly sports an interesting array of garden waste, disgarded vegetables and orange peel, along with plastic bags and food wrap. A garden ornament has joined them recently too, as well as other decaying, smelly items. Anyone going for a refreshing early morning dip in the river, where this lot inevitably ends up, risks emerging festooned with a load of old gunge that someone has jettisoned further upstream. Our waterways and the wildlife they support are precious – let's not treat them as rubbish tips. Sue Wiseman Industry, Community and Alternative Technology Event An interesting and informative Industry Community & Alternative Technology (ICAT22) event was held in Castle Douglas Community Centre in July. There were a number of tables where attendees could join in discussions on key issues impacting our area. Abi Mordin, from Propagate, facilitated a discussion which focused on local food production and food security. There was a discussion on community ownership of land led by Linda Gillespie. A conversation on the potential of locally generated energy from renewables was facilitated by Jeremy Sainsbury, and there was also a table considering how to influence decision makers and planning policy led by Carolyn Yates. The final hour of the event was taken up by a Q&A session with Paul Rogers, Professor of Peace Studies, who covered lots of of the current big issues surrounding the climate crisis and consequential geopolitical instability and migration concerns. Feedback from all discussions were that participants felt them to have been highly worthwhile. The event was facilitated by the Castle Douglas Development Forum (CDDF). If you would like to find out more about this event and its outcomes, or future events of a similar nature, please get in touch with Carolyn Yates on CDDF Chair Carolyn Yates at cddfchairperson@gmail. com or 01556 503 739. Abi Mordin from Propagate sharing ideas about local food production with members of her working group. Glenkens Gazette page 6 Connecting our Communities As I approach the end of my fifth week in post as project leader for Connecting in Communities (CiC), I just wanted to say a big "thank you" to everyone who has welcomed me and the rest of the new CiC team into our new roles. The team has been busy so far going into the Glenkens and district to meet people and deliver programme flyers for the activities coming up this month. Together with Fiona Limbrey, CiC's community development officer, and activity officer, Jo Jackson, we continue to build a community-based project that reaches the needs of our local organisations, friends and neighbours. We are busy pulling together a fabulous new programme for August, leading into a scrumptious September Food Month 2022. Fiona has been busy liaising with volunteers; we continue to need support from people to help with everything from CatStrand events to gardening or driving the community transport bus. If you feel you could give a little bit of time, Fiona would love to hear from you! Jo’s activity programme has launched, with everything from life drawing to drumming to guided walks. See the page opposite for details of upcoming events and activities. I have begun to venture out into The CiC Team (left to right) - Jo, Lisa and Fiona. the wider Glenkens and district to get a firmer understanding of what the needs are for the future of community development for 2023 and beyond. If you have any suggestions for shaping the future of the Glenkens and district, I would love to hear from you on lisa@ catstrand.com, or drop in at the CatStrand for a chat. I am really looking forward to the Ken Bridge bicentenary celebrations, with plans well underway for a host of activities and events for all ages. These include an afternoon of talks presented by the Glenkens Story on ‘Crossing the Ken: Bridges, Fords and Ferries’ and the Ken Bridge ‘Crossing the Water’ parade - family fun with storytelling and puppet making, with a lovely finale with Mark Zygadio’s water organ - to find out more visit www.gact.scot Thanks must go to Dave Paterson for the use of the Ken Bridge Hotel garden, to DRAX for lighting up the bridge, as well as to the team that has produced such a fabulous programme of events. Special thanks to John Crallan for steering the project to where it is today, Mike Brown for creating the flyers and Martin Warnock, Willie Jardine and Jamie Murdoch for clearing shrubbery around the bridge. Finally, thank you to Marcus Maxwell who has kindly allowed us to use his sheds and land to celebrate this historic occasion. September brings the return of Glenkens Food Month. This will be a celebration of our local growers and producers, showcasing the great food produced in our area. If you have any foodie ideas you’d like to explore and put into the Food Month programme, please contact me - I’d love to hear your ideas! Lisa Ridley, CiC Project Leader THE NOURISHING SPACE HEALTH COACHING LIVE A LONG LIFE WELL Switch from this to that to feel well! Ready to make a change? Get in touch... 07587122151 lesley@thenourishingspace.co.uk www.thenourishingspace.com Glenkens Gazette page 7 FREE ACTIVITIES AUGUST ACTIVITY PROGRAMME All these activities are FREE & open to people with no experience or some experience. All equipment will be provided. The activities will run in small groups so BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL PHOTOGRAPHY IN FOCUS Expert tuition to bring your photography knowledge and skills into focus Tuesdays: 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th: 10am-12pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan plus ‘out in the field’ MUSIC MATTERS Bring rhythm into your life with upbeat drumming and Ukulele workshops Ukulele: Wednesdays: 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st: 7pm-8.30pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan ARTistry Develop your creative skills in life drawing Thursdays: 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th: 10am-12.30pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan WELLBEING - LIFE SKILLS FOR ALL Introduce Mindfulness to your life and discover how it helps to live in the present. Stay for a cuppa, scones and chat after (included) Thursdays: 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th; 11.00am-12.00pm CatStrand, New Galloway WELLBEING - YOGA FOR MEN Suitable for beginners, gentle introduction to physical and mental benefits Fridays: 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th: 2pm-3pm The Smiddy, Balmaclellan ACCESSIBLE ART FOR WELLBEING Free fortnightly workshops focusing on exploring Art and it’s intrinsic relationship to Health and Wellbeing FREE art workshops across the Glenkens, visiting Dalry, Crossmichael, Kirkpatrick Durham 19th August Crossmichael Village Hall 10.00 -11.30am 26th August Kirkpatrick Durham Village Hall 10.00 -11.30am 19th, 26th August 12.30 -2.00pm Dalry Town Hall GUIDED NATURE WALKS Guided Nature walks in a variety of stunning locations. Sundays: 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th: timings 2pm-4pm A light late lunch will be provided. Transport is available, booking essential in order to plan pick-up points in the Glenkens Please do get in touch to find out about our glorious weekly locations. For more information and to book please call us on 01644 420 374 11am-4pm or book online at www.gcat.scot/project/cic/ Glenkens Gazette page 8 Dalry Birdsong Day GLENKENS Watson Birds HELP FOR and Planet Birdsong LIFEBOATS organised a number of events in Dalry. Peter Cowdrey took a group along the river levee to identify bird song. Despite the gusty wind, we heard a good range of bird song - chaffinches both Bird watching on the river levee listening for songs. young and older, red books from Donald Watson’s kites, whitethroats, collection and the recently printed sand martins, a hobby and postcards and letter cards. In others. As a result, a number of the evening we were treated people subjected themselves to to outstanding musicianship by attempting to sing a specific bird brother and sister duo, Peter and song, helped by a spectrograph. Liz Cowdrey on piano and violin Operated by Peter Threipland, a respectively. Pieces by classical good representation was achieved composers along with Peter’s own of various bird songs, including compositions, based on sound curlew. recordings of bird song, formed It was pleasing to have a number the programme. of people visiting Dalry Town Roger Crofts Hall in the afternoon to purchase The Glenkens RNLI fundraising group ran a successful two-day fundraising Cakes & Plants sale in Dalry. A large selection of plants and seedlings, and a mouth-watering selection of home baking, helped us to raise over £620 for the Kirkcudbright lifeboat group. The committee would like to thank everyone who so generously supported this event, and they would also like to thank Hair by Jayne who allowed use of the space outside the salon for the sales tables. Glenkens folk have always been keen supporters of the Lifeboats, who are our fourth emergency service but receive no funds from the government and must rely on volunteers. The RNLI Kirkcudbright office reports that fundraising is still well down following the Covid lockdowns and so they were particularly delighted to receive the pay-in from the Glenkens. CatStrand Café Open 11am till 4pm 7 days a week Come along for our delicious home baking. Light lunches also available 11.30am-2.30pm Walkers, cyclists, bikers and dogs all very welcome! Open Friday evenings in August from 4pm till 9pm with live music in the bar. (bar open with tea, coffee and snacks also available) Glenkens Gazette page 9 Over August and September a busy programme of events has Some of the creations which will be present at the Crossing the Water family event. been arranged to mark the bi-centenary of the Ken Bridge's completion. There is a real diversity including poetry, exhibitions, a delve into the history of the bridge, folk music sessions and the appearance of a kinetic sculpture water organ. Ken Bridge 200 Exhibition - new photography using the Ken Bridge as a subject, alongside a delve into the historical archive, old photographs, newspaper articles and maps. Water Organ by Mark Zygadlo Water Organ is an intriguing kinetic artwork built on an eighteen foot catamaran. Crossing the Water: A Parade of Stories, Music and Characters Over the Ken Bridge - A family-friendly celebration of 200 years of connecting the Glenkens with puppet making, storytelling and a parade. Lighting Up the Bridge - Live music, partying and the new bridge lights will be switched on. Ken Words Autumn Story Ceilidh - River crossings have always been meeting points for sharing news and stories - a relaxed evening, sharing stories in 'open floor' session. Crossing the Ken: Bridges, Fords and Ferries - Speakers include L Bruce Keith, author of Bridgescapes: Scotland's Bridgebuilding Heritage on how the bridge was built and the people who built it; David Bartholomew on crossing the Ken before the bridge; Archie McConnel on the story in maps and Michael Ansell on folk memories of the bridge. Under the Bridge - Folk Session from 5pm. BBQ from 6pm, with locally sourced food (part of Glenkens Food Month book food tickets). 7.30pm, Galloway Agreement outdoor concert. Peter Renwick, CatStrand These events have been supported by the Year of Stories 2022 Community Stories Fund, delivered in partnership between VisitScotland and Museums Galleries Scotland, with support from National Lottery Heritage Fund. They have also been made possible by support from DG Ltd’s Regional Arts Fund, Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership, Loch Ken Trust and Glenkens District Trust. Many thanks to all the Glenkens community groups who have contributed to this diverse and exciting programme. More on p38. For full details of events visit www.gcat.scot or pick up a CatStrand brochure from retail outlets around the Glenkens. CatStrandEST.2007 AUGUST & SEPTMEMBER ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY SCANNING Dairy & Sucklers; Ageing, Twin & Barren Detection. Trailer system includes triplets, marking and shedding. Pregnancy and number of pups. For bookings and info: Duncan Kennedy 07860 474001 dk@passcan.co.uk www.passcan.co.uk SUMMER CEILIDH REFUGEE SETTLEMENT FUNDRAISER FRI 5 AUG 7:30 DALRY TOWN HALL ARCTIC WINDS PART 1 : NIGHTLANDS THU 11 AUG 7:30 THE FALLEN ANGELS OF THE MOINE THU 18 AUG 7:30 CATSTRAND TOM BANCROFT'S IN COMMON SUN 28 AUG 7:30PM CATSTRAND SMITH & MCCLENNAN SAT 10 SEP 7:30 CATSTRAND FOUR HANDS ONE PIANO: THE LISNEY BRIGGS DUO FRI 16 SEP 7:30 CATSTRAND PICTISH TRAIL THU 22 SEP 7:30 CATSTRAND UILLEANN DUO: SAT 24 SEP 7:30 CATSTRAND PROJECT IN FOCUS Glenkens Gazette page 10 Muirdrochwood Forest Wildlife Hide is Ready! Muirdrochwood Forest, near Carsphairn, has been a hive of activity since ownership passed to Carsphairn Community Woodland (CCW) last year. In March 2021, more than four years of work by the local volunteers of CCW finally paid off with ownership taken of part of Muirdrochwood Forest. The group have wasted no time, with a timber processing shed and equipment installed, car park, walking routes being created on the site and opportunities for volunteer activities in the woodland. beautiful landscape.” The hide was built by Adam Murray, from Thick & Thin Lumber Company, based near Beattock. Adam added: "The timber that was chosen was locally sourced European larch, planted in 1948. Working on the project was good fun due to the planned in August/September (see page opposite). Faith Hillier, Biosphere Community Officer, was at the launch event and said: “This is a beautifully constructed hide, with a stunning view of the landscape. We are looking forward to bringing school children here to learn about the wildlife of the Muirdrochwood Forest and it’s a fantastic location for the future community events we’re planning to hold in partnership with experts on red squirrels, pine martens, fungi and the night sky.” CCW are very grateful to funders of the land acquisition, Scottish Land Fund, Carsphairn Renewable Energy Fund Ltd and a discount for public benefits from Forestry and Land Scotland, and also to South of Scotland Enterprise (SoSE), who funded the development costs of the forest. A highlight of recent work has been the installation of a new Members of the Galloway Glens team and the GSA Biosphere For anyone octagonal wildlife hide. join members of CCW outside the new wildlife hide. planning a visit, the This hide was created Muirdrochwood Forest using funds from CCW car park is on the B729 and the Galloway shape of the structure, and it was towards Carsphairn from the High Glens Scheme, supported by partners great to see the project through from Bridge junction (postcode: DG7 3TE), including the Glenkens Red Squirrel design to milling of the timber to The ‘what three words’ location for Group and the Galloway & Southern construction. It was also enjoyable the site is remit.breed.chestnuts. Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere. In July, for the midges to have a fresh source the hide was officially opened with a For more information, follow of food…” gathering of project partners at the Carsphairn Community Woodland on Bob Peace, from Glenkens Red hide. Facebook or visit www.carsphairn/CCWL Squirrel Group, commented: "I David McMillan, Chair of Carsphairn If you would like to join CCW as a am really pleased to have been a Community Woodland, said: “CCW member (if you live in Carsphairn part of this project - the resulting members have all commented on Community Council area) or as a hide is way beyond my original what a lovely addition the hide supporter (if you live further afield), expectations". is to the woodland and that it's details are on the website or you can A series of events in the hide are a very fitting building in such a email carsphairncw@gmail.com Sponsored page, working in partnership W W W. G A L L O W AY G L E N S . O R G autumn wildlife bonanza Glenkens Gazette page 11 at muirdrochwood’s new wildlife hide Muirdrochwood, near Carsphairn, is a woodland now owned by the community! Carsphairn Community Woodland (CCW) is running a number of exciting strands of work on the site. The Glenkens Red Squirrel Group and the Galloway Glens Scheme have been working with CCW to install a fabulous new wildlife hide which is now open. To celebrate its installation, a series of free events have been planned with the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere team which explore the biodiversity of Galloway and welcome you to the wildlife hide and wider Muirdrochwood forest site! 31st august 9:30pm-11:00pm – darkness and stars Galloway was the first ‘Dark Sky Park’ designated in the UK. Star expert and Freelance Ranger Elizabeth Tindal will guide us through some stars and constellations, talking about science and stories! Format: In-Person public event, booked via Eventbrite 2nd september 9.30am-2.30pm – welcome to your forest Children from Dalry & Kells Primary Schools will take part in a range of activities, linked to ecology, biodiversity and science as well as meeting a cryptozoologist/storyteller, introducing the community woodland and fostering a sense of curiosity and love of the natural world. Format: Schools will visit the site, not a public event. 7th sep 6-7:30pm – life as a squirrel or pine marten Glenkens Red Squirrel Group and Dumfries and Galloway Pine Martin Group will share their knowledge of Red Squirrels and Pine Martins on the Muirdrochwood Forest site. Hear about their habitat, life and behaviour. Format: In-Person public event, booked via Eventbrite 14th sep 6-7:30pm –what is the difference between fungi and mushrooms, and what can you eat? Join Peter Norman from the South West Scotland Environmental Information Centre (SWSEIC) to find out more about the diversity of Fungi within the forest and the function it performs in its biodiversity. Format: In person event, book via Eventbrite. Bookings for Public events handled through www.eventbrite.co.uk, search for ‘Galloway Glens’ For any further info about the events, the hide or planning your visit to the wider site, contact info@gallowayglens.org’ Glenkens Gazette page 12 Regional Land Use Partnerships After the fantastic reception last issue's Land Use Focus received within our communities, we are delighted to report that the Glenkens has been selected as one of two areas to take part in a community engagement project linked to the pilot Regional Land Use Partnership (RLUP) being created for the South of Scotland. The community learning programme linked to the RLUP is designed to help communities get their voice heard in this process, as a key stakeholder. The programme, run by the Social Enterprise Academy, will start with two webinars entitled ‘Lighting a Spark’ on the 25 and 30 August. These events are open to RLUP residents from across Scotland, and present an opportunity to learn from inspirational land use speakers and share ideas on how local land is used. The programme will continue with six online sessions just for the Glenkens communities and a final in-person ‘connecting with the RLUP’ meeting. The SoS RLUP seeks to bring together all of the people and organisations with an interest in land use in order to create a Regional Land Use Framework by the end of 2023 that will ‘prioritise land use change that delivers climate change objectives and improves biodiversity’. These will start at the end of September and continue to the end of November. The plan for these is to bring the community and other key stakeholders together for constructive discussions about how to move forward to a place where national and local interests are balanced and all voices are heard. The feedback will then inform how the regionwide RLUP can also achieve these aims on a larger scale. As we know, time is of the essence for the Glenkens with respect to land use change, but this chance to engage with the RLUP mechanism can only help us get our voices heard. The webinars and community sessions will be open to all, and as wide a range of people as possible are welcome. If you have a view on land use in the Glenkens – from forestry, farming and wind farms to mining, flood prevention and biodiversity – or if you have no view but would like to know more, look out for more information on all these sessions and please participate. You can help to give the Glenkens a voice in this key conversation that affects us all. See page opposite for details of how to participate in the community learning programme. Glenkens - Producers' Market Shop online: www.ballardsbutchers.co.uk Email: shop@ballardsbutchers.co.uk Tel: 01556 502 501 Free Local Delivery Tues & Fri (orders over £20) Wide Variety of Local Produce Butcher Meat Fruit & Veg Milk & Bread Available to order 2nd Saturday Monthly Dalry Town Hall, 10am-1pm - 13th August & 10th September ...fresh vegetables, baked goods, preserves, bread, fresh meat, smoked products, cheese, Galloway pasta and artisan cider, chocolates, handmade crafts, gift cards, plants... * Save Fuel - Shop Local * Want to know what’s going on? Then visit www.dalrytownhall.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 13 Regional Land Use Partnerships’ Community Learning Programme Lighting a Spark 25 & 30 august 2022 | 2 Online webinars • Learn from inspirational land use speakers from across Scotland Following these introductory webinars, the programme will deliver a series of online sessions with local communities in four pilot Regional Land Use Partnership areas to:  Explore ways to help tackle climate change and encourage wildlife through land use change  Identify sustainable land-based opportunities for local people though open and collaborative sessions  Give voice to communities’ needs and wishes by developing a shared vision for future land use To register, please scan the above QR code. For more information please contact Janet Bromham, Project Manager, janet@socialenterprise.academy SocEntAcademy www.socialenterprise.academy/scot Glenkens Gazette page 14 Meikle Millyea Curiosities The Ordnance Survey Name Book of 1849 mentions a large and irregularly shaped stone situated near the centre of Meikle Lump on the north-east side of Meikle Millyea. It declares that it was one of the most noticeable 'rocking stones' in the south of Scotland, having been so nicely poised that a slight wind put it in motion. It adds: "By some mischance or other it has lost its equilibrium and has not rocked any these many years past." Some visitors fooling around had clearly knocked it off its rocker! It would seem that it was a popular late 18th century tourist attraction while still able to rock in the wind. Francis Grose climbed up to it in 1790 and produced a fine drawing of it which was later published in his 1797 book The Antiquities of Scotland. He called it the Laggan Stone and wrote: "This huge stone, which is so poised as to be moveable with a small exertion of force, stands near the summit of a high ridge of mountains, called the Kells Rins. The particular hill on which it is situated is called Mullae, and the stone itself is called the Mickle Lump; near it is a small pool of water which covers about half a rood of land. The dimensions of this stone are, its greatest length eight feet nine inches, its height five feet one inch and a half, its circumference twenty-two feet nine inches." He may have been wrong in also giving the stone the name "the Meikle Lump", as later this name was given to the ridge on which the stone lies. On the other hand this may have been a local name for the large stone. I climbed up to see if I could locate it a few weeks ago and I am sure I found it at grid reference NX 52739 83567; it certainly seems to be the right shape (see photo). However, given the dimensions of the stone Grose gives, I would judge that the figures he places alongside the stone are too small - and David Tallontire CHIMNEY SWEEP Covering the Glenkens & further afield 07709 144 299 - wood burners - multi-fuel stoves - open fires - Agas - Rayburns - birds nest removal with CCTV inspection - certificates issued - feel free to call for advice - Find me on Facebook the pool of water adjacent to the stone is much smaller than half a rood. Just below the ridge on which the former rocking stone stands, and nestled into the hill just south of the dyke, is the remains of a small dwelling. Simpson in his 1841 book Traditions of the Covenanters recounts the adventures and close calls that covenanter Roger Gordon of Largmore had as he tried to avoid capture by the government soldiers. Simpson writes the following, referring to a time Roger escaped from the dragoons one night when they surprised him at Largmore: "He then repaired, with all convenient speed, to his accustomed hiding-place in one of the lofty ranges of the Galloway mountains, called the Mill or Meaul ae. A place of greater solitude than this can scarcely be found, and a retreat which, in the night season, it was impossible for the troopers to find." His name for the mountain is a bit garbled, and to my mind this is clear evidence that he was attempting to write down stories that had been shared with him orally; but I’m sure he is referring to Meikle Millyea. Roger held Clenrie as well so it would make sense that he Top: Francis Grose’s 1790 drawing of the rocking might have built a refuge on the higher reaches of stone. Middle: recent photograph of the Rocking his own land where he Stone. Above: suggested covenanter refuge. would have been unlikely to have been troubled by soldiers. In 2020, when If this is indeed Roger’s shelter, it could climbing the mountain with the family, I well be that he built it not far from the came upon the ruins of this small building Rocking Stone because the latter was high, high up on the shoulder of the well known to local folk and it would have mountain. I only noticed the ruin when I helped his fugitive friends to find the was almost upon it, and he would have shelter and join him there. You can find it likely camouflaged it with heather and at grid reference NX 52963 83404. have given it a turf roof so that it would David Bartholomew have been even less visible in those days. Glenkens Gazette page 15 The Optimistic Environmentalist Making the Most of Our Food and Garden: Part 1 Around a third of food produced in the world per year (about 1.3 billion tonnes) is thrown away. Use-by dates are there for safety eat until and on the date shown but not after or it could be unsafe. Best before date, sometimes shown BBE (best before end) shows the date that the manufacturer says the quality of the food will be maintained; it does not mean that food is unsafe to eat after this date and the food will often still be good enough to eat so don't automatically throw it away without checking it. Try not to get too enthusiastic and over-buy food, only to throw it away because you didn't get around to eating it. Don't just bin it - compost it; preferably either in your garden or a neighbour's or friend's. Just remember that no meat or dairy produce should be composted, and neither should anything that has been cooked. According to the Royal Horticultural Society, every 1kg of home-made compost saves over 100g fossil CO2 emission - most non-organic nitrogen fertilizer is made from fossil gas. So try to use natural products like manure, chicken pellets or home compost. Using home compost can save more than 5.1kg per gardener every year, not to mention the goodness you can put back into your garden or someone else's. When weaning your baby, use fresh food or a small amount of your meal; liquidise it and put in ice cube trays and freeze. You can then heat up as many cubes as you need so your baby can have an appropriately sized meal with a variety of tastes in it. As well as this being cheaper, it saves packaging from single-use jars or cartons of food, prevents too much waste from uneaten parts of jars, etc, and it is usually healthier. Baby foods are notorious for having a high sugar content. Whilst different sources quote different figures, between 50% and 80% of food consumed in the UK is imported. The differences seem to hinge on, for example, whether tea that is processed in the UK (but grown overseas) is an import or not! Importing food and repackaging it in the UK is common. Thus, eat seasonal food that is locally sourced, as much as possible, if not at least from Scotland or the UK. This should mean that the food is fresher when you get it and is therefore richer in vitamins, eg vitamin C breaks down over time. More local seasonal food will generally keep the carbon emissions lower than if the food is forced out of season in heated greenhouses or has travelled a long way. eg apples in cool dark places wrapped in paper, or preserving fruit and veg in jams, chutneys or carefully frozen. Christmas dinner with home-made red currant jelly made from garden-grown fruit is a joy, and have you tried white currants (which I've never seen for sale in a supermarket) with a dash of sugar on pancakes? You will never look back! Use herbs to make flavours more exciting. They can be grown in pots in the kitchen or plant them in the garden preferably near to the house for easy access. Expand the variety of local fruit and veg that you have by exchanging food with friends and neighbours. Set up a food network to exchange spare or unwanted fresh, tinned or packeted ingredients or full dishes to reduce waste - you may even experience foods or dishes that you haven't had before. Some people are better at growing certain crops or have a particularly large crop of something that they can't use. For instance, when we lived in Yorkshire, for a number of years we got blight on tomatoes, either in the garden or in the greenhouse, so whilst Richard can grow them well elsewhere, we just could not grow them there; however, we never had carrot fly as we lived high up where it was windy, so our carrot crop was great - good for exchanging the excess. Some networks around the UK swap food and jobs, eg someone will make a loaf of bread for some potatoes, someone would take a dog for a walk while someone makes a rhubarb chutney or apple and blackberry crumble maybe with fruit from their garden. Expand the variety of local fruit and veg that you have by exchanging food with friends and neighbours. Have a go at growing what you can; it often tastes better and could give you a sense of satisfaction or interest in your food (it's particularly important for children to understand where their food comes from and how much effort goes into growing it). When growing fruit and veg, plant a variety so that you spread out your crops throughout a season and have a variety of crop types. For instance, potatoes can be early, mid or late season, salads can be grown in winter as well as summer, different berries, raspberries and apples, etc, crop at different times. Learn how to make the most of these crops by storing them, If time, space or money are at a premium, think about growing fruit rather than veg. Veg growing can be hard work whilst most fruit plants, once established, will grow and produce fruit for years - often even with abject neglect. Denise MacDonald-Kiernan Gordon McAdam Plumbing & Heating 22 Kirkland Street St John’s Town of Dalry 01644 430 393 07834 321 789 Glenkens Gazette Colourful Times at Dalry Primary School Dalry Primary school children had a fun afternoon experimenting with natural dyes. Children from the P3/4/5 class got an option to choose an exciting activity during one of their Friday afternoon '31Time' sessions when they had a visit from Miriam, of Midge Porter Design. Miriam explained how natural dyes are sourced, processed and applied after which the children got to dip-dye their own wool yarn and fabric samples. Using extracts from common household foods such as red cabbage, tea, and onion skins, the children also used dyes from flowers and tree barks. Miriam then explained how by altering the pH of the dye bath it was possible to change the dye colours, sometimes quite significantly. Using vinegar and bicarbonate the children were amazed as the dye colours changed before their eyes! One of the children wanted to go straight home and dye some wool from the sheep on his family farm. Miriam took the dyed samples home to rinse and dry them before returning to show the children the range of colours they had achieved. Then followed a crafting session where the children had a go at crocheting, weaving and sewing using the wool fabric and yarn samples. It was all great fun and the enthusiasm of the children was wonderful to see. There was a suggestion of trying tiedyeing next time! The dyeing session was very kindly funded by a grant award from the Glenkens Community shop in Dalry. Pictured: above right pupils amazed by colour changes created in the dying process. Right - the finished colours of yarn. Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP Solicitors and Estate Agents Dumfries & Galloway 01556 503744 www.ggblaw.co.uk All legal advice Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie Kirkcudbright and Dumfries page 16 Glenkens Gazette page 17 Dalry Secondary School Trip Dalry Secondary School enjoyed a whole-school trip to Kirkcudbright in June, including our new S1s who were on their transition visit to the school that day. We set off from Dalry at 9am, arriving in Kirkcudbright just before 10am when we split into two groups – S1/2 went to visit the Dark Sky Centre whilst S3/4 went to investigate the Viking Hoard at Kirkcudbright Galleries. After an hour and a half there was a short break and then we swapped venues. At Kirkcudbright Galleries we had the opportunity to find out more about the Viking Hoard – how it was discovered and the information it revealed – as well as an opportunity to handle replica objects before visiting the exhibition to see the real thing! This was followed by a session writing our names in the anglo saxon runic alphabet, creating lino cuts of these before printing them. The Dark Sky Centre enabled us to explore the past, present and future all in one place – an out of this world experience! We could be star-gazers, astronauts, scientists, explorers and in the planetarium we journeyed into space together; quite a shock to come back down to earth and adjust to the bright sunshine outside. Pupils and staff enjoyed a picnic lunch in the Soaperie Gardens and a quick explore of the town before heading back to Dalry. We had a thoroughly enjoyable day – our first whole school trip since 2019 – and our thanks go to everyone involved for giving us such a good time. Sue St Joseph Pictured: left - Brodie star-gazing. Above - teachers Mr Collins and Mrs Johnston play at being astrronauts (photo by Laya McCallie, S2). Young Athletes Show Prowess Dalry Secondary School's sports day showed the prowess of lots of the Glenkens' young athletes. Overall Sports Champion of the day was Charlie Moore, who won the Carmichael Cup after a strong showing in a number of events. Dante Newbery collected the Goodwin Shield on behalf of Goodwin House after his own strong performance. A big well done to both boys as well as all the other participants for making it a competitive and enjoyable event. A "thank you" also goes to staff for helping with the running of events. Family and friends coming to stay? Short of space? Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 www.covenanters-holidaycottagescotland.co.uk Four of our pupils competed for Dalry at the Regional Athletics Competition - Charlie Moore in the 100 metres and long jump, Crawford King in the shot put, Oscar Benson in the 100 metres and long jump and Karol McDonald in the 800 metres. As always the boys were a credit to the school. Liam Fleming Pictured: Top right - (left to right) Charlie Moore (S2), Crawford King (S3) and Oscar Benson (S1). Bottom right - Dante Newbery with the Goodwin Shield and Charlie Moore with the Carmichael Cup. 唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀Ⰰ 䰀漀漀猀攀 䌀漀瘀攀爀猀Ⰰ 䘀愀戀爀椀挀猀Ⰰ 䌀甀猀栀椀漀渀猀 刀攀昀椀氀氀攀搀 䘀爀攀攀 䔀猀琀椀洀愀琀攀猀 吀栀攀 圀漀爀欀猀栀漀瀀Ⰰ 䴀漀渀礀戀甀椀攀Ⰰ 䌀漀爀猀漀挀欀⸀ 䐀䜀㜀 ㌀䐀夀 眀眀眀⸀䠀愀爀爀椀猀ⴀ唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀 ㄀㘀㐀㐀 㐀㐀 㔀㈀㤀 Did you know..? We have a Self Service Laundrette behind the community shop Open 8am to 5pm Monday to Saturday and from 9am to 3pm on Sundays Glenkens Gazette page 18 Uncovering the Secrets of Scotland's Only Industrial Ghost Town Hidden in the hills near to Carsphairn are the remains of an entire mining village built at Woodhead in the 1830s - deemed as Scotland's only example of an industrial 'ghost town'. The site of Woodhead lead mine was operational from 1838 till 1873 under the control of a reputably philanthropic landowner, Colonel MacAdam Cathcart. It is a rare example of a ‘total production’ unit in Scotland, using the cutting-edge equipment of the time to carry out all the processes of lead production from mining the ore through to exporting high quality lead pigs and even some silver. The machinery was powered by water and water alone, with a myriad of lades still traceable across the site. In the 1840s, Woodhead was producing up to 900 tons of lead a year. And for every ton of lead, they were also getting around 18 ounces of silver: enough for the Colonel’s wife to make communion cups from it for donation to the local church. The smelted lead was carried by horse-drawn carts up for storage in Dalmellington, before being taken to Ayr for sale and shipment. Alongside this fully integrated mining complex, Cathcart also constructed a ‘model village’ to house the miners and their families, with a school and library Some of the ruins at Woodhead, photographed by Will Dunbar. to educate their children. By 1851 there was a population of 301 staying in the village, pulling in mainly skilled miners from Wanlockhead and Leadhills. As the mine’s output started to fall dramatically throughout the 1850s however, the miners started to leave. Some went to Dalmellington, while others headed further afield to mines in America and Australia. The mine closed in 1873, but some of the housing remained in use for self-employed forestry workers until as late as the mid-1950s. Today, the site survives as a complex of ruinous structures spread out across a hillside to the northwest of Carsphairn. And its significance is recognisable in its designation as a legally protected scheduled monument. Following in the footsteps of earlier surveys carried out in 2002 and 2008, Can You Dig It, the community archaeology project of the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership, is leading a group of volunteers to undertake a historic building survey of some of the upstanding structures. Joined by local historian Anna Campbell, Can You Dig It will train volunteers on how to create detailed photographic and written records which will further add to our knowledge of this site before any more is lost. Woodhead is unique in Scotland with the remains of a planned village, metal mine and smelt mill, and this site with its combination of social and industrial archaeology may be the country’s only example of an industrial ghost town. For many years there has been a call for more detailed archaeological research of the site and the Galloway Glens’ Can You Dig It project is taking up the challenge. To find out more, or get involved, visit www.gallowayglens.org/projects/ community-archaeology-programmecan-you-dig-it BEM for Community Service This year Debbie Murdoch, who ran the Balmaclellan shop during the pandemic, received a British Empire Medal (BEM) in recognition of her work for the community. Balmaclellan residents wanted Debbie to receive the recognition they felt she deserved for all her hard work and support of members of the community during coronavirus pandemic. Debbie said: "I feel very honoured and proud to have been awarded my BEM, I have thoroughly enjoyed being a big part of the community and miss everyone dearly. I didn’t feel I was doing anything special, so it was a huge shock." Pictured: Debbie Murdoch being presented with her BEM by HM Lord Lieutenant of the Stewartry, Lord Sinclair. Glenkens Gazette page 19 WARS, ALLIES AND REFUGEES Apologies for this simplistic summary of history, but I thought that shifting allegiances make an interesting tale... The battle of Waterloo was fought in 1815, where Britain and our allies Germany defeated the French. A memorial to the battle and our allegiance with Germany stands proudly on a hill above New Abbey. The oldest civic war memorial in Scotland is in Balmaclellan. It records five men from the parish who died in the Crimean War (1853–1856) where Britain was allied with the French (our former enemy) against the Russians. Moving forward to the first World War (1914–1918), now we are again allied with the French, this time against our former ally Germany. During this period, refugees from Belgium came to the UK and one family at least found refuge in a house in New Galloway (I would be pleased to receive information about the refugees in New Galloway if any readers have any). Russia (formerly our enemy) now became our ally and fought against the Germans although Russia left the war early (in 1917) to deal with their own internal problems. In the second world war (1939–1945) we were again allied with the French (former enemies) and the Russians (former enemies) against the Germans (former allies). Ukraine was partly occupied by Germany and partly by Russia at this time, and Ukrainians who fell into the hands of the British were put into prison of war camps if they had been forced into the German army, or handed back to the Russians if they had been conscripted into the Russian army. Ukrainian prisoners of war (ex-German army) were put into a prison camp near Lockerbie. They were treated well and many settled there after the war as they did not want to go back to Ukraine under Russian occupation. There is still a Ukrainian chapel on the site of the POW camp and a significant number of locals can claim Ukrainian descent. Of course there were refugees in the Glenkens in the form of evacuees and records show that there were eighty evacuee children on the roll of Dalry school in 1940. Now move forward to 2014. Britain, France and Germany (who have all fought each other at one time or another) are all members of NATO and therefore allies. Ukraine is now an independent country whose independence was agreed by Russia when the Soviet Union broke up in 1991. But Russia now invades Crimea (which is part of Ukraine). Finally, to the present day. Russia has invaded other parts of Ukraine (whose independence it guaranteed) and refugees are fleeing Ukraine in large numbers to find (hopefully temporary) homes, across Europe. Some of these refugees have now found places of safety in the Glenkens. Whatever the shifting allegiances of the great powers; whatever the occupation of one country by another; the Glenkens provides a place of refuge in time of need. Paul Goodwin farmers keeping animals and growing crops in settled communities. Builders of stone circles and burial chambers reflected changing religious practices and beliefs. Successive waves of immigrants left their traces in rock art or the remains of hut circles. Then came artisans, often far-travelled - working with bronze and later with iron. Smiths forged art in precious metals. Defence, and prestige, required crannogs and hilltop fortifications. Romans left traces of great camps and fragments of forts. Missionaries brought Christianity and created the splendours of Whithorn and carved stone crosses. They attracted the pilgrims who joined the travellers and merchants and invaders, often from faraway places. They left many traces of their lives and as many puzzles and mysteries. The 9th century Galloway Hoard, discovered in the last decade, with its diversity of artefacts and far-flung connections, well illustrates the complex story of peoples who have lived on this land before us. Join us at the Early Peoples of Galloway conference at the CatStrand on Saturday 3 September (10am to 4pm) and discover “ten thousand years of history in a day". Visit https://gcat.scot/event/theglenkens-story-the-early-peoples-of- galloway for the full programme and to make a booking, or call 01644 420 374. Tickets £30 (Students £20) for the full day including coffee and buffet lunch. Ten Thousand Years in a Day Who were the travellers riding over the site of your garden? Who were these armed bands camping in the valley you see from your window, or the people hunting wild cattle where today you go shopping? Who were here, in our daily places, in the deep deep past? Since the glaciers melted over 10,000 years ago, many peoples have lived in what we know as Galloway. Now, in an ambitious day of discovery, the Glenkens Story history group is staging the Early Peoples of Galloway conference, bringing together eight experts to describe the people who lived here and the worlds they inhabited, from the retreat of the ice until the year 1000 AD. The first to arrive were hunter gatherers and fishers with tools and weapons of wood and stone, moving from camp to camp as the seasons changed. Slowly they gave way to Mike Brown & Michael Ansell, The Glenkens Story News Flash Overcoming Hurdles at New Galloway Town Hall The discovery of some dry rot at the head of the main staircase caused great consternation just as Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING) were on the point of taking ownership from D&G Council. At this point in time, however, we are optimistic that asset transfer can proceed on the understanding that the council will act urgently to rectify the matter at no cost to us. Even better, we are advised that the hall is safe to use as long as we close off the main staircase and make use of the back stairs. The Upper Hall will operate on restricted numbers until such time as both exits are available again. LING Trustees Glenkens Gazette page 20 GLENKENS PLACE-NAMES: PART XVII Personal names are sometimes found in our Glenkens place-names. There is a peculiar set of these in the valley of the Blackwater of Dee, apparently commemorating one individual. Boddon’s Folly is shown on the OS 1st edition map of 1852 as already in ruins. It was located south-east of Loch Stroan near Red Scar Island in the Dee and is now engulfed in conifer forestry. The OS Name-Book entry for this location (OS1/20/81/51) states: The ruins of a house on the farm of Bennan it was built by a man named Boddon who occupied about eight acres of moorland by a sublet contract off the farm of Bennan, the speculation of his building a house on so small a quantity of barren moorland was looked upon as a foolish speculation which finally became a failure, it is now a roofless ruin and known by the given name. close to a marked bend in the river called the Loop of Lanebreddon (Lòin Bradan - ‘salmon burn’). The ford appears to be partly formed from an island in the river there. OS Name-Book entry for this location (OS1/20/48/4) states: A stoney ford across the Black Water of Dee. Situate a little west of the conflux of Curnelloch Burn. A man called Boddon was drowned in it, hence the name. It seems as though these names are commemorating an individual called Boddon, who appears to have had a particular connection with islands in the Black Water of Dee. Are there any other clues to his identity? Well, a Helen Boddon is recorded in the census of 1841 in the parish of Kells - presumably she was connected to the Boddon in our place-names - and a Robina Boddon died age 81 at Dalry in 1919. The family name is unusual in Scotland and the Boddon family is not now present locally, to my knowledge? ‘descendant of Buadán (an ancient Irish personal name, older form Buatán); an old Ossory surname’ in his book Irish Names and Surnames, 1923. The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names of Ireland (Muhr and Ó hAisbéil 2021) suggests this name was possibly derived from the Gaelic word buad - ‘talent, victory’. Early bearers of the name include Donochow (Donnchadh) O Bodan in 1599. In his book A Dictionary of Irish Saints Pádraig Ó Riain mentions (pp 85-90) several early saints of the name Baodán. He comments that the name assumed many forms including Baoide, Baoithín, Baoth, Dobhaodóg and Buadán. He derived this name from Gaelic baoth, now meaning foolish but historically denoting someone innocent or guileless. The saints of this name (or variants thereof) are listed as: Baodán of Cluain Annobhair, Kildare Baodán of Cluain Mac Nóis, Offaly Baodán of Lann Léire, Louth Baodán of Ceall Ua Scóba, Galway Baodán of Meathas Truim, Longford Baodán of Rubha Baodáin, Kildare Baoithín of Inis Baoithín, Wicklow Baoithín of Iona, a close blood relation of St. Columba, his alumnus and constant companion. Baoithín of Teach Baoithín, Westmeath. It seems as though these names are commemorating an individual called Boddon, who appears to have had a particular connection with islands in the Black Water of Dee. Are there any other clues to his identity? A well-known and signposted spot on the Raiders’ Road between Bennan and Laggan o’ Dee is Boddon’s Island. This is situated about 600m upstream from the deserted clachan called Clachrum (An ClachDhruim - ‘the stone ridge’) just south of a rise in the ground known as Knowe Happle (for Cnoc a’ Chapaill - ‘hill of the horse’). The OS Name-Book entry for this location (OS1/20/81/32) states: A small island in the Black Water of Dee belonging to the farm of Gairloch – this island was rented by a man called Boddon, hence its name. Gairloch is probably from An Geàrr Log - ‘the short hollow’. Much further up the Black Water of Dee, about a kilometre from the outlet of Loch Dee, are Boddon’s Steps. This crossing over the Dee is quite N ew Galloway Golf Club Founded Foun ded 1902 www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk - 01644 420737 Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME George Black in his magisterial book The Surnames of Scotland mentions the surname Bodden. It is instructive that all his examples of this name come from Kirkcudbrightshire, one Gilbert Boddane witnessing an instrument of sasine at Bordland of Laik in 1552, John and William Boddane recorded as masters of families in Buittle in 1684 and John Boddane recorded in a place called Meiklehalf in 1688. Boddane/ Boddan seems very much to have been a Galloway surname. Black goes on to speculate that the surname might derive from the lands of Bowden in Roxburghshire but notes that all the instances of the name are from Kirkcudbrightshire, implying doubt. Donald McWhannell, in the book Galloway: The Lost Provice of Gaelic Scotland (forthcoming) mentions that the late 13th Century Ragman Roll contains the seal of one Patricii d’Gilboian or Gilbochyn (Mac Giolla Baoithein - ‘son of the servant of Baoithen’) along with another seal of Patricii mak G——, also given as MacGilboian. This is a Galloway name meaning ‘son of the devotee of (Saint) Baoithen’ Given the Galloway provinance of the Boddane surname a Gaelic origin alternative derivation should be considered. The Rev Patrick Woulfe mentions the name Ó Buadain So it seems that the unfortunate Boddan of the Black Water of Dee placenames, who perhaps was ruined when his holding failed and drowned further up the river, may have been a representative of an old Galloway and Glenkens family of Ó Buadain or Mac Giolla Baoithein. If the analysis above is correct then we may add Boddan to the considerable list of local Gaelic family names such as the incomplete sample below: Sloan, Ua Sluagháin Agnew, Ua Gnímh Adair, Ua Dáire Carson, Acarson, Ua Crosáin Acoueltan, Ua Comhaltáin Ahannay, Hannay, Ua hAnnaigh or Ó hÉanna (?) Milligan, Amuligane, Ua Maolagáin Cannan, Ua Canannáin Heron, Ua hEaráin or Ua hEaradháin (?) Roan, Ua Ruain Ua means ‘grandson’ or more generally ‘descendant of’. It manifests itself in Irish surnames as O’ or A. In Galloway it was usually anglicised as A as in Acarson, Aheron, etc. Over time the A prefix dropped out of use in the anglicised form of the names. Michael Ansell, Cars Fèarna Glenkens Gazette page 21 THE KEN BRIDGE STORY The River Ken defines the Glenkens: it also divides it. Crossing the often turbulent Ken safely and reliably has preoccupied local people and travellers for centuries. Success finally came in 1822 with the opening of John Rennie’s magnificent 5-arch granite bridge which is being commemorated this year. As part of the the Ken Bridge bicentenary celebrations (see p9), the Glenkens Story is presenting Crossing the Ken: Bridges, Fords and Ferries on the afternoon of Saturday 24 September. It will set the scene by describing the state of communications in the Glenkens before the completion of the bridge and the haphazard reliance on fords and ferries and bridges that washed away. Our guest speaker, L Bruce Keith, will then take up the story of Rennie and the bridge of 1822. “John Rennie, an East Lothian farmer’s son, was a stalwart of the Scottish Enlightenment,” says Bruce, who is the author of Bridgescapes, the recently published story of Scotland’s bridge building heritage. “He was one of several eminent Scottish engineers whose genius, coupled with attention to detail and practical intuition, produced a legacy of outstanding bridges. “Rennie's Waterloo Bridge in London was acclaimed when it opened as ‘the noblest bridge in all the world’. Although it was replaced last century we can still gaze in wonder and pride at many of his surviving bridges including, in southern Scotland, those at Kelso, Musselburgh and Newton Stewart. The Ken Bridge, one of his final commissions before he died in 1821, is A-listed and has been described as ‘an architectural gem, one of the most elegant bridges in south-west Scotland’.” Bruce will describe the challenges the Ken crossing posed and how Rennie and the men who worked with him overcame them - at the second attempt. In other contributions, Archie McConnel of the Dumfries Area Mapping Project and David Bartholomew will describe the earlier river crossings and Michael Ansell will discuss folk memories and local tales of the bridge. L Bruce Keith, historian of Scotland’s bridges, will speak at the Glenkens Story event on 24 September. Share the stories of our famous bridge at the CatStrand 2-4pm on Saturday 24 September - tickets are £12 from www.gcat.scot or phone 01644 420 374). Post-Covid Fun for Cub Scouts We started our pack meetings in April, following the awful Covid pandemic, and Leaders were delighted to welcome Cub Scouts from all over the Glenkens. We were off to a flying start with a scavenger hunt, and then we had lots of platinum jubilee activities. The Cubs made and posted beautiful celebratory cards to Her Majesty and crowns were decorated for a celebratory banquet. The jubilee banquet was great fun, with Cubs dressing up in their best clothes, enjoying a table laden with goodies generously provided by parents. We were delighted when Drew Low, our Galloway Area President for the Scouts, joined us at the banquet. Always a favourite activity for the youngsters is a sausage sizzle, which went down a treat as usual. There were of course some sausages burnt, some half-cooked and sent back for finishing off, and some covered in ash, but the kids had a great time, finishing off with toasted marshmallows. On the final night before the holidays, the Cubs were challenged to make a model boat and we took them over to the park to sail them in the burn. A few Cubs got a bit drookit by the end but never the less great fun was had! Hannah, Doug and I would like to welcome on board Ben Wells, a young Leader who has joined the team. Ben recently moved to Balmaclellan from Kent, and has already made an impact in the Pack. On a sad note, we say farewell to Heidi, who has been our group treasurer for many years, as well as all the extras she did for us - we appreciated her time very much, and wish her and her husband David well in their next venture - “Good luck" and "thank you”. We are having a table-top sale at the Alternative Games on 7 August – if you have any toys, jigsaws, bric-a-brac, children's books, teddies, etc that you would care to donate, please hand them in to Heather. Yours in Scouting, Heather, Hannah, Doug and Ben Pictured are Cubs decked out in their finery, enjoying the jubilee banquet. Glenkens Gazette page 22 sponsored by If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk FREE Footjoy golf shoes, black, size 9. Good condition, just outgrown them. Contact: Nigel on 07774 778 872 Four single beds. Contact 01644 430 380 Modern oak headboard for single bed, pine dressing table and stool, 3 mismatched bedside tables. All been stored in garage so need painting, varnishing or waxing. Contact: Alan on 07769 680 938 Horse manure, rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 WANTED Double bed size divan base with drawers. Contact: 01644 460 673 Miniature Painting. By mistake I gave away a miniature painting on an easel to the Dalry Charity Shop. It's only about two inches high. Did you by chance buy such a painting from the shop in April? I would dearly love to have it back as it was painted by a relative. Cost reimbursed plus a reward and my undying thanks. Contact: Paul on 07973 174 342 Chest freezer. Contact: Tony on 07507 704 821 Old lawn mowers/strimmers/ other small machinery. Nonrunners/broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 King size mattress, 2-seater sofa, water butt, outdoor bench, outdoor table & chairs. Contact: Sarah on 07453 858 505 or saraheathomas@gmail.com HOME WANTED IN THE GLENKENS We are seeking to buy a home with 2-3 bedrooms and 3-5 acres of land, somewhere in the Glenkens. Anywhere and any condition considered please help us to stay in the Glenkens! Contact: Abi and Bruce on 07340 531506 or abi@mordin.net September 2022 Celebrating our Local Food Glenkens Gazette page 23 sponsored by eBike Rental Scheme Takes Off The Galloway Community Transport (GCT) eBike rental scheme has got off to a great start with lots of Glenkens residents taking advantage of the opportunity to tour our beautiful countryside with a bit of extra assistance. The bikes are very easy to use, and Jon from GCT will give each new member of the eBike club a full induction into how to use them. As a membership scheme, the project is designed to show people the benefits of ebike riding for their health and for the environment, and it is open to everyone in the Glenkens. Ebike riding is really a lot of fun and suits all ages and fitness levels – so if the hills of Galloway have stopped you getting out and about on your bike, this could be perfect for you. Why not find a friend and give it a go! Thanks as ever to our funders, Cycling Scotland and the Energy Saving Trust, for their support in purchasing these bikes and allowing us to offer this scheme to the Glenkens. The cost is £20 to join for the year, and then a day’s rental of the bikes is currently just £2 - an introductory price, thanks to our funding for the scheme. So what are you waiting for? Get in touch with Jon at jon@ catstrand.com and come and have a go! Pictured: GCT eBike scheme members getting to grips with the bikes outside CatStrand in New Galloway - photo by Ian Biggar. Glenkens Gazette page 24 Barwhillanty Garden Barwhillanty Estate welcomed visitors for an open garden event in May. "It was a wonderful celebration of nature, the outdoors and bringing people together showcased sunshine, artisan pizzas, yoga on the lawn and a taste of aerial yoga to finish," said estate owner Oscar Yerburgh. Joining the move towards local food production, Barwhillanty is offering home-grown veg boxes. Collection is every Thursday from the Estate Office, from 2-4pm, and you can order online at www. barwhillantyestate.co.uk Pictured is a selection of some of the homegrown goodies available. SEASONAL LOCAL FOOD PROMOTES BETTER HEALTH Our lifestyle can affect between 70-90% of our health outcomes. Our genes only account for 10-30% of our health, depending on which diseases we may succumb to. What we eat is one of these lifestyle factors. A balanced diet, limiting ultra-processed foods and focusing on real, whole foods with lots of plants can make the difference between good or poor health. This can work whatever way of eating you subscribe to, from vegan through to carnivores. Changing how we think about food, and buying from local producers, can alter our eating behaviour to benefit our health. It doesn’t have to be at the expense of our enjoyment of food - far from it. We can appreciate food more which tastes delicious and we know the provenance of. Here are four reasons to eat local, in-season food! Fresh tastes best Locally grown fruit and vegetables, harvested within 48 hours, taste better. Happy meat and dairy animals, reared on conservation-led farms, grazed outside in diverse grassland, have a more delicious and intense flavour. If it tastes better, you’ll likely eat more of this good produce, and not want any of those ultraprocessed foods. More nutrients for your money Ripe and fresh fruits and vegetables contain the most nutrients. The minute they are picked, their plant cells begin to shrink and their nutrients diminish. Supermarket produce is grown and processed with its shelf life in mind, and not its nutritional benefits. These products are picked early, when nutrient load is lower, and then transported long distances and stored for weeks, and sometimes months, before arriving on supermarket shelves. What farm animals are fed on, you eat too, in their meat, dairy or egg produce. When they have access to natural crops, grown in healthy soil, they eat more nutrients. This improves the nutritional value of the finished produce. Mother nature knows best Farmers can only grow what their local conditions will support. Before transporting goods over long distances became commonplace, we had no option but to eat seasonally. As a result, we based our meal choices on the ingredients we had available. Luckily, the natural cycle of produce is perfectly designed to support our health. Building a lifestyle around seasonal food supports the body’s natural healing processes. Abundant leafy greens in spring, help our bodies detox after a winter of pickled veg and cooked carbohydrate and protein rich foods. While in summer, water-dense fruits like berries, tomatoes and cucumber keep us hydrated. Nature knows best and provides us with what our body needs. Longevity coach Lesley Atkins enjoying a bowl of home-grown strawberries. Follow the diversity diet Eating seasonal local food helps to achieve a diverse diet. Assortment in our diet, especially when eating plants, is crucial for our gut health and therefore our overall physical and mental health. To do this, we need to opt for a wider range of plant varieties and heritage stock that are not available in supermarkets, but our local farmers do provide. Our foraging and hunting ancestors used to eat hundreds of different plants and animals. Now, we only consume around 0.1% of the possible edible plants on the planet. The latest science encourages us to eat at least 30 different plants per week. However, I would like to challenge you to eat 300 different plants in a year! How can you get access to great local products? Firstly, I’d encourage you to grow your own, as you’ll also get the benefits that gardening brings. Local seed and plant swaps can get your collection going. Secondly, Hidden Veg and the Glenkens Food Hub online are great places to shop. Local markets also give you the chance to speak directly with producers, you can ask what varieties they are growing and check if they are using sustainable and organic methods. Lesley Atkins Lesley Atkins is a Glenkensbased health & longevity coach at The Nourishing Space - www. thenourishingspace.com Glenkens Gazette page 25 Youth Players Make the Scottish Final Since the very beginning, although we have had great successes at the district and divisional rounds, the CatStrand Players and Youth Players have never made it to a Scottish Final - ever. But at last, after six very long, sometimes stressful but very enjoyable months, the CatStrand Youth Players finally made it to the SCDA Youth Final 2022. From start to finish with our production of ‘Lockdown’ by Douglas Craven, myself, Brian and the entire cast and crew have loved every single second, and to get to a Scottish final for the first time ever was the icing on the cake! After winning the Western Final at Dunoon in March, it seemed a long wait until the big final but the date soon rolled around and we set off to the Regal Theatre in Bathgate, where we were up against two other competing teams. Representing the Northern Division was Blairgowrie Youth with their performance of ‘Down Came the Rain’ by Burgess Clark, and from the Eastern Division was St Kentigern’s Academy Youth Theatre with their play ‘Platform Party’ by Alan Richardson. All three plays, while being so different in topic and direction, were enjoyable and interesting pieces of theatre. The adjudicator for the final was the experienced Alasdair Hawthorn, and he said that he thoroughly enjoyed all three productions and was extremely impressed with the high standards from all of them, each one ably demonstrating why they were all worthy of their place in the final. Members of CatStrand Youth Players, pictured with Unfortunately, there SCDA adjudicator, were thrilled to receive second could only be one winner place with the group's performance of 'Lockdown'. at the end of the day and he awarded first place are very proud to have represented to Blairgowrie Youth Players for their the Stewartry District at the Western poignant performance of ‘Down Came Final six times now and then, this the Rain’. It was an excellent piece of year, finally representing the Western theatre and they were certainly worthy Division at the Scottish Final for the winners, and we were absolutely first time. We hope to be back soon! delighted to come a close second! So that is the end of the festival The adjudicator really enjoyed season - until next year that is! our play, saying that he liked how Congratulations again to all the the tension built up and he could cast and another huge thank you to really sense it spreading through the everybody who has helped in any way audience. All in all, he told us we had with the Youth Players, particularly to produced a memorable play with very all those who travelled to Bathgate current and poignant subject matter and Dunoon to support us; it was very and we should all be very proud of much appreciated. We really couldn’t ourselves. have done it without you. We all thoroughly enjoyed the We’ll be having a wee break now journey we took with ‘Lockdown’, before we start rehearsals on 4 performing in all three rounds of September, ready for our annual panto the SCDA Youth Festival, and loved which will be on stage on 9, 10 and 11 meeting all the other competing December. Hope to see you there! teams at Dunoon and Bathgate. We James Wallace Carsphairn Community Woodland Open Day Carsphairn Community Woodland (CCW) held a successful open day in June at Muirdrochwood Forest, with a good attendance from both locals and supporters from further afield. The visitors came to view progress in the woodland and hear about the projects that have been undertaken so far and what CCW's plans are for the future. Carsphairn Community Woodland would like to say a big "thank you" to their supporters - without support from members from the local community, organisations and individuals, we would not have been able to reach the point we are at now. There are various activities organised over the summer - take a look at pages 10 and 11 to find out more. The CCW Team Glenkens Gazette page 26 Meeting Our Glenkens Councillors Andy McFarlane, SNP Over the next few issues of the Gazette we'll give our new Dee & Glenkens Ward councillors a chance to introduce themselves, starting with Andy McFarlane who says: I have a great belief that none of us achieves much without the help of others. We rely on parents, friends, partners, colleagues, and others to get through our daily lives. It is no different when working in the public sector, which I did as a police officer for 30 years. I worked in a great variety of roles, but those that I enjoyed most were where I, working with others, made a difference to our communities. It is my belief in my ability to work effectively with others to deliver good things for our communities, and make a difference, that inspired me to put myself forward for election. Because we are living through difficult times, it is even more important that we maximise our resources, people, property and financial, and I will work with communities and council staff to do so at every opportunity. My hope is that I can demonstrate that I will work hard to deliver for all of the people and communities of Dee and Glenkens. I will listen, acknowledge, and work with the communities to address their issues wherever it is appropriate. I am eager to better understand how we can work together to tackle poverty, and particularly child poverty. I believe that every child deserves to have the best opportunity to do well in life. We as adults must work to make that happen. We also need to encourage wider participation within our communities. It is for each community to drive their ambitions for their area, and I want to join them and help them achieve whatever goals they set for themselves. The more that members of communities get actively involved, the greater the ambition and the greater the achievements that are possible. I will do whatever I can to support community involvement and participation, as a means of improving Lockdown Reflections An opinion piece by Barry Bryan-Dixon To be honest, I didn't find the whole lockdown situation too gruelling, and it certainly doesn’t seem like two years ago that it all started. What did take me by surprise were the news broadcasts of case numbers and deaths on a daily basis, which was all very depressing. I watched the news every day to keep up with things, which lasted for about six months or so, and it was all doom and gloom with very little or no good news. I found that I was feeling down more than usual, so I cut my listening to the daily news down to three days a week, but that didn't seem to work. It was time to make another decision; do I stop watching the news altogether, or do I cut it down even further to one day a week? I turned it over in my mind for a couple of days and then one morning I came across BBC Scotland - low and behold, news headlines along with other information until around 7pm when normal programmes started. So any time of day I could tune in and get my headlines - there and then I decided to stop watching the news altogether, jot the headlines down daily to keep myself up to date, then every three days or so enter them into my 'Covid Lockdown Diary'. Not watching the news was the best decision I ever made; it relieved much of the pressure of my anger and anxiety attacks, depression and mood swings, bringing them back to a manageable level. I'm usually pretty adept at managing things - if I feel moody or depressed, I watch something lighthearted or funny, like Tom and Jerry or Road Runner, and I have a good library of comedy films and TV shows. My friends help me a great deal too; I couldn’t manage without them. the lives of all of those within our communities. Lastly, the council is often the subject of criticism but I would like to say that, in my short time in post, I have seen the hard work and application of employees in the council, and I have been grateful for their support and guidance. If you would like to get in touch with Andy you can email andy.mcfarlane@ dumgal.gov.uk or call 07795 927 009. So we are almost back to normal now, and the only thing I have difficulty with is my mask. If I go into a shop I feel obliged to wear it, even though I don’t have to. In fact, I feel guilty if I don’t - I suspect that these feelings will wear off eventually, or I certainly hope they will. As I said in my previous article, Corona Virus Comparisons (printed in Issue 118, June/July 2020) our situation will be similar to post-WW2; it may have taken 40 years but we did it then, and I'm sure with a bit of common sense and empathy the government should be able to get their priorities right and sort things again this time too. So I am back to watching the news every day and it’s OK. I might shout at the TV every so often when someone says something I think is stupid or I disagree with, but that is healthy isn’t it? The next pandemic, in another hundred years or so, I think will be more powerful and destructive, although I hope I'm wrong. I noticed that the NHS is compiling a register with Covid and flu together, which suggests to me an annual jag for Covid is to come... Glenkens Gazette page 27 A Carsphairn Lass: Part I Recollections by Betty McNally... I moved to Stroma, Carsphairn, with my parents and sisters in 1935, when I was seven years old. The house was built by the Galloway Water Power Company now absorbed into Scottish Power. We were the first inhabitants of it. It was built on the hillside, no shelter, no trees; just what the herds call 'blaw grass' and heather. When I was at Stroma there was no electricity in the house - that didn’t come until about 1955. We had to use candles in the bedrooms and an Aladdin lamp in the kitchen, with a paraffin heater in the bathroom and the kitchen had a black range. There were three bedrooms. When my family moved to Stroma we made a rockery round the house, as well as a lawn and a large vegetable garden and Mum had her flowers too. When the winters were bad, which was often, my Dad and I used to cut peat. It was hard work, but it kept the range nice and warm. When it was blowing a blizzard, the snow came through the doors. If it was a bad snowstorm, we had to take a shovel with us to dig our way through to the telephone which was in the porch at the front door. Snow also blew in through the slates and we had to take it out in buckets before the ceilings were brought down. During the rationing my Dad, Ada Coltart (nee Grierson) who lived at Drumjohn, across the road from Stroma, and myself walked to Dalmellington to get the rations, seven miles there and seven miles back. I remember going one day when the snow was up to the telegraph wire, and we had to walk in Dad’s footsteps in case we went into a snow drift. In the winter months my mother, my sisters (Effie and Margaret) and I used to make rag rugs and we also cut up cardboard boxes and used the cardboard to make dart boards which we sold to a shop in Dalmellington. Dad worked for the Galloway Water Power Company. His job was going round the Loch Doon intake and valve at Drumjohn, checking the reading and he also went to Bow Burn and the Deugh. His transport was a motorbike and sidecar. There was a spring of clear water called 'The Whiskey' down the road to Dalmellington at the last corner on the right hand side. One day Dad stopped there for a drink of fresh water before he returned to Loch Doon. When he reached the loch, he found an adder had crawled up his sleeve – luckily he got it out without any trouble. After a number of years Dad got a van and when he went to Dalmellington, which was a very busy mining town, the residents would call out “Here’s Ernie the Watter Man”. Every Monday he brought a lady, Mrs McHugh down from Dalmellington to visit the McCutcheon family at Meadowhead. One severe winter the Murdoch family, who were at Waterhead, found that the Deugh had flooded and then frozen, and the pressure of the ice was causing the walls of the house to crack and break up. A helicopter was called to help Dad and some volunteers rescue the family and livestock - it was all reported in the local paper. When Bob Grierson killed the pig at Drumjohn we kids used to see it hanging on the only tree by the house. The Grierson’s had two daughters, Mary, who married Wattie Bryden from Dalmellington, and Ada, who married Davie Coltart from Dalry. Ada went into the NAAFI during the war. She was a wonderful cook, learning it all from her mother. There was a family called Britten who lived at Brockloch Cottage, and they had a boy and a girl. We all went to school together in the Lawrence’s school car. There was also a family called Rae, who walked over the hill from Knockengorroch to meet the car at Brockloch. When I went to school, Miss Dougan was our teacher. She was very strict and shouted at us a lot (she also shouted at adults.) There was a tin shed in the playground which was used by Miss Miller, the dentist. We had lots of entertainment in the hall at which Miss Dougan got us to sing and do plays. She also took us to singing festivals at Kirkcudbright and Castle Douglas. Our school trips were to Sandyhills for games and a picnic. We were all given a bag with a small sandwich, a sugar bun and a bottle of milk in a cardboard container with a straw. I remember Mother giving me a sixpence to go buy something at the wee shop. One time I brought a pair of 'silver' candlesticks. Mum had them on her dressing table for years; they were her pride and joy. When Miss Dougan left Carsphairn to go to Shawhead I was the oldest girl in the school and got to go to Alexander’s store in Ayr with her, where she bought a fireside chair with the money that had been collected for her leaving. Evacuees from Clydebank came to school and brought their own teacher. We didn’t understand their language, songs or their games and we didn’t like it... Submitted by Frank McHugh, shared courtesy of the Doon Valley Gazette Glenkens Gazette page 28 A CASE FOR FOREST CROFTS The success of Carsphairn Community Woodland Ltd’s acquisition of part of the woodland of Mardrochit (Muirdrochwood) prompts the question as to whether, if a larger area of the woodland was purchased, there could be potential for the creation of forest crofts or smallholdings. A scheme such as this would be excellent for enabling housing for local residents and encouraging engagement with the land, but would be doubly appropriate given that this woodland contained the Muirdrochwood Forest Holdings - a smallholding in the middle of the wood - when the forest was originally established by the Forestry Commission. Previously there were The neglected former holding of Druim an Easa, many such Castlemaddy Forest; could new life be breathed ‘crofts’ in back into these abandoned crofts? the Galloway forest, but most have Could an expanded Mardrochit been sold-off or abandoned over the community acquisition pave the years. way to this tradition being reestablished? Michael Ansell Parton Photo Competition Parton Village Hall held a photo competition with entries submitted during April for display in the hall over the Jubilee weekend. The theme this year was 'trees' to tie in with the recent community woodland planting and we had 54 entries with lots of interesting interpretations of the theme. out where the pictures had been taken! The winners were Sheila Nelson and Graham Dawson chosen by a popular vote at the Jubilee picnic. Congratulations to Sheila and Graham and thank you to everyone for the support and the entries. The aim was to encourage people to get out and explore the area and think creatively but it was particularly lovely to be able to put on a display in the hall this year and see everyone taking time to look around, discuss their favourites and try to work Pictured: Winning photographs by Sheila Nelson (below right) and Graham Dawson (below left). Glenkens Gazette THE CERTIFICATE It’s an oft-told joke: "I left school with one certificate – 25 metres breast-stroke". But that doesn’t apply to me, I’m not that good a swimmer. I always pride myself that I can get from anywhere in the pool to the nearest edge. But I did leave school with just the one certificate and it has taken me over half a century to appreciate the value of the certificate and the story behind it. To set it in context, the year was 1968 and I was soon to leave a grotesque comprehensive school of 1800 pupils in a ‘New Town’ and run off to join the Army at the tender age of just fifteen years and two months. Best thing I ever did, and that was a full year before I was due to take (and probably fail) my O levels. My English teacher (Mr Davis - a Welshman) had a very clipped, even staccato, way of speaking. One spring day he tasked my class with writing a poem. Now I was a cocky young so-andso, and I resented being told when to write poetry. I had always considered poetry writing a personal thing for when I was in the mood (not that I wrote many poems – and looking back, they were usually rubbish anyway). But my nose was ‘out-ofjoint’ and I thought to myself that I would show him! I wrote a poem about a school teacher, which riffed mercilessly on Mr Davis’ mannerisms, and handed it in fully expecting to get detention for my cheek. Without my knowledge, he entered it for a school poetry competition (which I did not even know existed) and I was amazed when he told me that it had won. I was presented with a certificate and I had to read the poem aloud in an assembly of my year group of several hundred pupils and teachers. Everyone there must have realised that it was about him. Why would he do that? Why would he set himself up? Bravery… he saw something in me, and did what he could to encourage it. As my long, varied and (mostly) successful career was beginning to draw to a close in 2014, for some reason I began writing…fiction, poetry, memoir and more. Looking back, that certificate gave me the confidence that I COULD write. I now humbly submit that old poem, A Lesson, that I wrote as a fourteenyear-old, in memory of the late Mr Davis. Paul Goodwin Ling Lunches are Back Did you know LING lunches are on again? Every Tuesday, our lovely and welcoming volunteers open New Galloway Town Hall doors between 12.30pm and 2pm to provide scrumptious homemade soups and sweets, all at a very reasonable price. Everyone of any age is very welcome, whether on your own, with friends or as a family. No need to book, just come along and try LING lunches out! Until recently, our lunches were provided by Dawn of local company Love to Eat, and we are so grateful to her for the excellent food she provided over the years. However, Dawn has decided to step back and take a bit more time for family and other things, and we are very excited to have Jax of Fabby Cakes, another Glenkens business, providing our lunches. Do pop in to try her equally wonderful cooking. LING were extremely lucky to be awarded funding from Glenkens Community Shop to purchase lovely new tablecloths, which we now use during lunches. LING would like to say a huge thank you the shop (if you haven’t visited Glenkens Community Shop it's well worth a visit - it’s on Main Street, Dalry). If you'd like more information or to support LING in any way - ideas, suggestions of events and activities that you would like to see happen throughout the Glenkens, and/or you can volunteer occasionally - please email me (Angie, LING's new Community Inclusion Manager) at communityinclusion.ling@ gmail.com or message us though our Facebook page @Local Initiatives in New Galloway. We look forward to hearing from you! Angie Bradford page 29 A Lesson Hey boy! Yes you! Just lolling around, Just give it back And turn around. Oh boy! Hey you! Sit up straight. What a mess, A slovenly state. Low marks! Again! You’re getting worse, Have I to act As mother and nurse? What’s this? At me! Who made this dart? Never again Or you’ll properly smart. Sit down! Sit still! That’s not a cue, That bell’s for me And not for you. Mark! Stand up! Go to the head, Go on, get going, You heard what I said. Hey boy! Yes you! Didn’t you hear? Have I to clip you Round the ear? Ah well! And now the lesson’s passed, It’s time to prepare for another class. I am determined to make these smart, On the backsides’ll do for a start. THE CLACHAN FAIR Is anyone is interested in reinstating the Clachan Fair? If so, please contact Jane Metcalf at bella54@ btinternet.com at the earliest convenience. Otherwise monies raised from the previous Fair will be donated to charity. Glenkens Gazette page 30 CARSPHAIRN CRAFT GROUP After keeping the going through the pandemic with virtual sessions, Carsphairn Craft Group finally had our first in-person meeting in two years. The group had managed to keep going over lockdown via Zoom, but crafting through a screen just isn't the same. It was so good to be able to meet up again properly, and on our first meeting back we even had a lady join us all the way from Gatehouse, who got to know us through a Facebook group. We had cake and coffee and not much crafting was done as everyone was just so happy to be together again. Since then, we have had a lovely outing to New Lanark and a yummy coffee and cake at Garrion Bridge Garden Centre. In the first week in July we used a buddy system in which those who could crochet buddied-up with those who couldn't, which led to a fun and fruitful morning. The next July workshop was held in Carsphairn Community Woodland, where members learned about natural dyeing. We have other workshops planned throughout the year, including Worldwide Spin in Public Day which we will be holding a day late on Sunday 18 September, from 10am, in Lagwyne Hall - feel free to pop in and learn the amazing art of spinning! It's wonderful to be back up and running, and I'd like to thank Gail for all her hard work over the years that the group has been running, and it's a real joy and an honour to be taking up the reins in organising the group, and to see how much the group has grown since Covid. Carsphairn Craft Group meet every Friday from 10am to 12noon(ish) in Lagwyne Hall. The coffee is always on the boil, and new members are always welcome, both from within the community and from further afield. Maggie Pictured is the craft group at the CCW workshop on natural dyeing (left) and some of the resulting wool colours (above). Making Mouths Matter in Schools Local dentist and yoga practitioner, Maria Papavergos, is working to raise awareness about oral health in local schools. "My mission is to educate schoolchildren in our area about oral health, with my project 'Making Mouths Matter in Schools'," says Maria. She continues: "I have been talking to the children in Crossmichael, Gelston and Auchencairn primary schools about the importance of their mouths and how they connect to their bodies." Maria set up the initiative as she felt that there is a real lack of understanding in how best to support oral health as part of our overall health. She believes that a good start is to get kids to understand for themselves about making healthy choices, as this will lay the groundwork for healthy choices for a lifetime. Having worked with Unilever brand Zendium previously, she knew they had a holistic perspective of the mouth and the body as a microbiome - a forward-thinking approach to oral health similar to her own. Maria approached the brand and they agreed to support the project by supplying toothpaste. "I began by making approaches Maria teaching the children at Crossmichael to schools across the region, Primary School about their oral health. starting with my daughter’s school at Crossmichael. The sessions so diseases such as cardiovascular disease far have gone really well with lots and diabetes are all linked to oral health. of good questions, even from the very Lifestyle choices that can lead to good young children," says Maria. oral health are so important - one in The hope is that through promoting four children in Scotland have a cavity the success of the campaign locally the before they start school, and so much initiative can be rolled out nationally discomfort could be avoided just through with other dentists getting on board and better education in this area - it's very engaging with schools in their area. preventable. So what can we do starting today to "My aim is to help children understand enable better oral health in our children, that it’s not just about brushing your and ourselves? teeth; your mouth is a gateway to "I feel there is a misunderstanding of overall health." what is damaging to teeth," says Maria. To find out more visit Maria's website "Dried fruit, raisins, smoothies…these at www.thelifestyledentist.co.uk or are all considered healthy, but are not if you would like to book a visit for healthy for teeth. Snacking is a key your child's school email maria@ factor in dental decay. Also, gut health, thelifestyledentist.co.uk immune health as well as systemic Glenkens Gazette page 31 Deciding the Future of the Glenkens Community Centre The building on Kirkland Street, Dalry, known as the Glenkens Community Centre, was constructed in 1878 as the new school and continued as such until the 1930s. After the war it served a number of functions but, during this century, its main purpose has been a community centre. Following the threat of closure by Dumfries & Galloway Council, the building was acquired in 2017 by Dalry Community Properties Trust (DCPT) under the Right to Buy Legislation. It then continued as a base for various user groups, including Brightstars Childcare, until early 2020 when Covid forced its closure. The DCPT was primarily set up to deal with this initial purchase, but is now established as a registered charity, which enables it to deal with possible future acquisitions on behalf of the village and residents. As we are now entering a phase where Covid restrictions are easing, it is an appropriate time to consider the future of the centre. Unfortunately, during the last two years many of the user groups have relocated or ceased to operate altogether, as in the case of Brightstars, and the trustees have been forced to take a long, hard look at where this leaves the centre. The conclusion is that there are only three realistic options: Option 1 is to attract new user groups back and operate in much the same manner as previously. However, this would require setting up a new management committee to deal with the day to day operations, and any income is unlikely to cover the ongoing costs, such as insurance and maintenance, in the short term. Option 2 would be to find a single user and let the building on a long lease. This would be a more secure path than Option 1, but in both cases a certain amount of capital expenditure would be required to bring the toilet block up to modern standards. Option 3 would be to sell the building and use the funds generated to acquire other assets in the village for the benefit of the community. In order for the residents to have their say on this important issue it has been decided to have a public meeting in Dalry Town Hall on Thursday 29 September at 7pm. Attendees will have the opportunity to vote on their preferred option, and this will give the trustees an insight into public opinion and allow them to decide on the way forward. Anybody with questions and/or opinions can contact the chairman of DCPT at garyblissett51@gmail. com prior to the meeting. WOOL GATHERING In autumn 2021 Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere launched The Wool Gathering, an initiative to promote the versatility of local wool and its diverse potential as a sustainable resource. This year the Biosphere has been awarded funding from the Blackface Breeders’ Association, support which will drive the project forward and raise awareness that sheep farming is integral to both our heritage and our regional economy. Scotland’s first Biosphere was designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 2012 and covers more than 5,200km² of the south-west region, including hill grazing throughout the Glenkens. Across much of the Biosphere blackface sheep are the dominant breed, with a history that stretches back into the mists of time. First mentioned in monastery records of the 12th century, blackface sheep are hardy animals that thrive on upland pasture, even in inclement weather. Today their wool is typically sold for use in the carpet and mattress trades in the UK and Europe, and wastage in sale and processing is high. Use of blackface wool in clothing has been in decline since the trend towards cheap man-made materials overtook the historic appreciation for hardwearing woollen garments that are locally made. As the impacts of the climate crisis become more acute, suppliers and consumers are seeking creative ideas to make the systems that produce our food, fibre and fuel much more robust. The Biosphere’s remit as a UNESCO designation is to promote sustainability in enterprise alongside environmental education and research, and to test solutions to some of the most critical challenges of our time. With the funding that the breeders’ association provides the Biosphere’s plans are now being progressed: British Wool is helping the project source 1,000kg of Blackface Fine no.1 725 produced within the Biosphere region, and following scouring (cleaning) Knitlab North will create and test prototype items of outerwear. Through their partnership the Biosphere and the breeders’ association hope to demonstrate that the potential of blackface wool is much greater than its current uses suggest, and that in time far fewer fleeces will go to waste. The Wool Gathering is just one of many projects aimed at supporting and celebrating ‘Biosphere life’ across the whole region including, of course, Blackface sheep at this year's Carsphairn Show. the Glenkens, an area that sits at the heart of this UNESCO designation. During 2022 the Biosphere’s Land Use & Biodiversity team are starting a land managers’ group that will meet regularly to share experiences and reinforce the local connections which are especially critical at a time of nationwide policy changes and global financial crisis. The Biosphere’s Proud Supporter and Certification Mark schemes – both of which are free to join – continue to promote sustainable communities and the micro and SMEs which bring such incredible diversity to our local economic landscape. Members based in the Glenkens cover a range of sectors, from food and drink at The Clachan in Dalry to the creative textiles of Midge Porter Design, growing and learning at Galloway Flowers, outdoor adventuring at Galloway Activity Centre, and shepherd’s hut holidays at Garroch Glen. More information visit www. gsabiosphere.org.uk or email info@ gsabiosphere.org.uk Tamara Fulcher Glenkens Gazette Thank You, Lyndsay page 32 The last thing Lyndsay Wright would ever want is to be the centre of attention, for a fuss to be made... But, on behalf of the old Wright's Shop team and the community she served – for more than eight years, unfailingly – I dare to venture a public "thank you, Lyndsay, for everything" and the heartfelt wish that she may have good health to enjoy many years of adventuring. Jane McBeth Pictured: Raising a glass to Lyndsay, third from the right, at Wright's Shop Christmas meal out at Carlo's in Castle Douglas. A PLEA FROM A LOCAL TAXPAYER I am a taxpayer living in the Glenkens. I am concerned that a number of people in the area are not claiming everything that they are entitled to and this upsets me, especially with the rising cost of fuel. If you are on a low income, please check to see if there is anything you could claim, especially Pension Credit or Universal Credit. People who live elsewhere in UK are claiming their entitlement and I just want to make sure that those who live here are claiming what my taxes are helping to fund. If a married couple has one who is a taxpayer and the other not – claim marriage allowance by contacting your tax office. Anyone under 22 or over 60 is entitled to a free bus pass – contact the local library. If you receive Pension Credit or Universal Credit you should be eligible for the Social Tariff on your Broadband – they rarely advertise this so if this applies to you, phone them up and make a noise, it could save you £250 per year. A Glenkens taxpayer Youth Activities in the Glenkens LING Glenkens Youth Activity Group held its first youth group night in June, and was delighted that 21 young people, aged between 10 and 15, came along from all over the Glenkens. Are you stuggling to afford to heat your home with the rising cost of living? The Hub, in Dumfries, may be able to help – get in touch on 01387 269 161 or info@ thehubdg.org.uk The group starts up again on 15 August for sports, outdoor activities and opportunities to relax and meet up with friends outside of school. Through the summer holidays over 50 young people aged between seven and 14 will take part in two-day Outdoor Adventure and Filmmaking Fun sessions. These will run in partnership with CatStrand Young Creatives and are funded by D&G Council Amazing Summer with support from the Loch Ken Trust. Thanks go to Kells and Dalry Primary Schools and Dalry Secondary School for letting us promote the activities through school channels. For more information, or to be included in the youth activities email or WhatsApp group, please contact Olivia at youthwork.ling@gmail. com, text 07719 708 668 or visit @localinitiativesinnewgalloway on Facebook. Pictured: Young people participating in a youth session in New Galloway Park, enjoying the sunshine. Glenkens Gazette page 33 BUSINESS in the SPOTLIGHT Valerie and I have been married for 32 years this year. We've got two kids (not that they're kids anymore) - Caitlin who is 27 and Ciar who has just turned 23. We took the plunge to move here in August last year after years of thinking about having our own business. I had been driving HGVs for a large supermarket for 27 years and Valerie was a pupil support asisstant at a local primary school for 22 years and it was high time for a change. So we sold our family home in Lochgelly, Fife, and moved to a flat in Dunfermline for six months while we decided what to do. Things seemed to drag on forever but, in early 2022, we finally caught sight of the light at the end of the tunnel when we made the decision to buy the shop. We all passed our initial Post Office training before taking over the business, but to be honest it was only scratching the surface of learning. The keys were officially handed over in April this year and we are thoroughly enjoying everything about the community in Dalry. Everyone has been really friendly and helpful, even correcting us when we've undercharged them! Generally we're quite chatty people and enjoy being that "wee bit nosey", so we love a bit of banter in the shop. We don't have any plans to make major changes to the store. We'd perhaps like to evolve it to include some sort of hot food availability and snacking options, maybe even a nice coffee machine. How could I forget about Tibo, our over-friendly 'cockapoo'. We bought him from a family prior to moving here, and he's been keeping us entertained ever since. No point in making life too easy! We'd like to say a huge thanks to Lyndsay for making it as stress-free a handover as possible, to Isobel, Jane, Susan and the girls who work in the shop for all their help and support, and to the whole town of Dalry for making us feel part of the community from day one. Hopefully we'll be serving this community for a good few years to come, so we'll get to know many more of our Glenkens locals. Bill, Val, Caitlin, Ciar and Tibo WINDY STANDARD WIND FARM - OPEN DAY FUN - We would like to thank everyone that attended the Windy Standard Wind Farm Open Day on Saturday 25 June. We hope they had as much fun as we did taking part in the celebrations and seeing first-hand wind energy in action. Visitors to the wind farm were met by Rowanbank Environmental Arts & Education, a social enterprise that creates magical outdoor experiences. They really were magical in their costumes! They joined everyone on the coaches and provided a potted history of the wind farm alongside a fantastic performance to the top. At the top of the hill everyone was met with refreshments in the marquee before taking part in some games and a treasure hunt in and around the turbines. After enjoying a delicious spread provided by Carsphairn Tearooms and an adrenaline-fuelled safety demonstration, we retired back down the hill heading for home. It was a great day out for both adults and children and we are sorry that the weather stopped it from running again on the Sunday. Keep in touch: communities@ fredolsen.com / 07435 763 900 Advertisement In this edition we'll be getting to know the new owners of Wright's Shop in Dalry. Glenkens Gazette page 34 Glenkens Jubilee Celebrations The sun came out in Dalry for the treasure hunt around the village which the children enjoyed, even though a few got lost on the way! Lots of residents decorated their houses with bunting and flags, and it was fun to see the competitive spirit alive and well in Dalry. The winner of the 'Best Dressed House' received a sweety bouquet and a new flag for their collection. The town hall, decorated with lots of bunting and flags made by the children from Dalry Primary School, was the venue for a ‘bring your own’ picnic. There was a magician to wow the public and lots of old-fashioned games to play such as 'tin can alley' and 'guess the name of the corgi!' A great time was had by all. Picture: Winners of Dalry's Jubilee Best Dressed House were Jim and Elizabeth Gourlay (Elizabeth pictured here). Carsphairn Community Council organised a get-together for the community to celebrate the Queen's platinum jubilee. After the dearth of communal activities owing to the Covid pandemic, it presented the ideal opportunity for Carsphairn residents and guests to enjoy together not only a delicious buffet supplied by Carsphairn Tearooms but also some excellent music from the Kilmarnock Concert Brass. The event was held in Carsphairn's community garden decorated with flags, bunting and balloons, and to top it off, the weather was perfect. The Communty Council would like to give thanks to those volunteers who helped set up and dismantle chairs, tables, gazebos and miles of bunting to make the event such a success. Parton Village Hall arranged a canoe outing on Loch Ken for adventurous villagers as part of the jubilee celebrations. Canoes and a safety boat were hired from Galloway Activity Centre giving everyone a chance to take part even if not a regular paddler. Eight boats launched from Parton and headed up the loch, under the viaduct for a picnic on Green Isle where Paul Hodson provided entertainment with stories about the history of the islands. The wind picked up for the return journey making it slow going but everyone made it back safe and sound. Overall an enjoyable day out, a great way to catch up with neighbours whilst seeing the village and the loch from a different perspective. Local Initiatives in New Galloway, New Galloway Community Enterprises and New Galloway & Kells Community Council hosted a Jubilee Jamboree in New Galloway park, with support from CatStrand Arts for the musical elements. It was followed by a fabulous ceilidh in the town hall featuring the Shore Road Band. Wonderful afternoon teas were provided by Dawn of ‘Love to Eat’ and food for the ceilidh featured pie and beans, thanks to Margaret Watson, followed by amazing platinum jubilee trifles made by David Briggs. The highlight of the afternoon was undoubtedly the pet show, with lots of happy rosette winners. Thanks go to the more than 30 volunteers who supported the event - through their hard work it all came together, and the sun smiled on us. Glenkens Gazette GLENKENS GLASS RECYCLING POINTS • Balmaclellan Stores, Balmaclellan page 35 Sports in Dalry Outdoor Bowls - for details contact Fiona Ramsay on 01644 430 587 Table Tennis (available 24/7) Snooker (available 24/7) • Memorial Hall, St Michael's Road, Crossmichael Indoor Bowls (October to March) Badminton (available 24/7) For details for table tennis, snooker, indoor bowls and badminton contact Gary Blissett on 01644 430 521. • Kirkland Street, St John's Town of Dalry CROSSMICHAEL THERAPY CENTRE • New Galloway, Carson's Knowe Car Park - Your Health is Important - • St David Street, Kirkpatrick Durham For details of other recycling points visit www.dumgal.gov. uk/wasterecycling - follow the ‘Recycling Points in the Community’ link. There is also a ‘Find My Nearest’ tool that enables you to find a range of local services, including recycling points. ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is probably best known for its treatment of pain. However, they can be used to treat a broader variety of conditions, from achy joints to anxiety, skin troubles to insomnia, acupuncture could help change the way you manage some of life’s health challenges. Matthew Pajo has been studying and practising Chinese medicine for over 25 years and has attained a Bachelor Health Science and Master Applied Science in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. As a highly skilled and trusted clinician, Matthew uses safe, effective, and natural treatments that can bring relief from acute and chronic conditions. Matthew is a member of the British Acupuncture Federation and the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians. To make an appointment call 07786 079 845 or email info@matthewpajo.co.uk For more information visit www.matthewpajo.co.uk Psychological Therapy Amber Dunlop-Pajo has spent over 20 years working as a psychologist and has attained a Bachelor Psychology (Hons) and Master Psychology (Health) and is a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society. Amber specialises in Women’s Health as well as depression, stress, anxiety and has a focus on health psychology. Contact Amber on 07389 713 106 or info@gallowaycounselling.co.uk For more information visit www.gallowaycounselling.co.uk Crossmichael Therapy Centre, The Old School, Crossmichael, DG7 3AP 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS General Medical & Dispensing Services FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY The Surgery High Street New Galloway Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm Sat 2-2.30 pm Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm  01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS  FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 Glenkens Gazette The Community Kindness Cupboard outside Dalry Library has home baking in every Thursday. page 36 WHERE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB LISTINGS Dumfries & Galloway! What's Going on @DGWGO on Facebook; What's Going On Glenkens @WGOGlenkens on Facebook; Glenkens Gazette @GlenkensNews on Facebook – once on the page for any of these, use the search function to look for jobs. The Glenkens' largest employer, Natural Power Consultants Ltd, also have a jobs page - www.naturalpower.com/uk/careers KEY GLENKENS CONTACTS LOCAL DOCTORS’ SURGERY Glenkens Medical Practice - 01644 420 234 COMMUNITY CONTACTS • Balmaclellan: Martin Warnock 07939 261 391 • Carsphairn: Liz Holmes - 07718 358 160 • Corsock: Julie Garton - 07769 647 702 • Kirkpatrick Durham: Heather 07551 639 629 • Crossmichael: Richard Middleton - 01556 670 691 • Dalry: Graham West - 01644 430 503 • Mossdale: Shop - 01644 450 281 • New Galloway: 07741 656 601 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 FOOD DELIVERIES • Galloway Foodbank - 07730 788 335 • Hidden Veg - www. openfoodnetwork.org.uk/hiddenveg/shop • Ballards Butchers - 01556 502502 (they also deliver groceries) • Grierson’s Butchers: 01556 502 637 • Henderson’s Butchers: 01556 502 654 • Mitchell’s Greengrocers: 01556 502 077 • Fleet Fish: call 07966 103 912 to find out about Glenkens delivery days • Roan’s Dairy - 01556 620 374 LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Glenkens Community Shop: Contact Liz Lewis on 07530 804 217 or drop by the shop on Main Street, Dalry Glenkens Scout Group: Contact Heather McIntosh on 01644 420 375 Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact newgallowaytownhall@gmail.com Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail. com or 01644 430 521 Dalry Town Hall: Contact Lesley Blissett at lesleyblissett52@gmail.com Glenkens Community Centre: Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact ngce5000@gmail.com or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins at julia.higgins55@outlook.com CatStrand: Contact Fiona Limbrey at fiona@ catstrand.com or 01644 420 374 or pop in to the CatStrand Schools: Visit the school office or call Dalry Primary on 01644 430 105 (for Nursery/ELC too), Dalry Secondary on 01644 430 259 or Kells on 01644 420 340 Carsphairn Heritage Initiative: Contact Karen Hall at carsphairnhi@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie at mcnabb. laurie@dumgal.gov.uk If you would like to add your community organisation to this list please get in touch with the Gazette - contact details are on the back page. CHURCH TIMES CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: Sunday Services St Margaret's Church, Kenbridge Road, New Galloway, DG7 3RP Balmaclellan: 11am - 7 Aug & 4 Sept Carsphairn: 11am - 14 Aug & 11 Sept Kells: 11am - 21 Aug & 18 Sept Dalry: 11am - 28 Aug & 25 Sept Special Services Communion, 21 Aug, 11am, Kells Church. Harvest Thanksgiving, 2 Oct, 11am, Balmaclellan Church. Harvest Lunch, 2 Oct, 12noon, Balmaclellan Village Hall Sundays: 10.30am Sung Eucharist, followed by coffees/ teas Visitors are always welcome - for further information, including directions, please see our website www. stmargaretsnewgalloway.org or call our vestry secretary, Christine Rankin, on 01644 420 259. Glenkens Gazette page 37 GALLOWAY COMMUNITY TRANSPORT www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org email gct@catstrand.com phone 01644 420374 mobile 07841 512449 August - September 2022 Regular Services GK2 Glenkens-Castle Douglas (Tesco) Wednesday Evenings (Registered Route) Out 19:00 19:05 19:15 Dalry (Underhill) New Galloway Mossdale Return 21:15 21:10 21:00 19:25 19:30 19:37 19:40 Laurieston Townhead of Greenlaw Castle Douglas (Market St) Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:50 20:47 20:37 20:35 Booking not required Glenkens to Newton Stewart Fortnightly - Tuesday mornings Outward Pickups: Dalry (Underhill) 09:30 New Galloway (Town Hall) 09:35 CatStrand) 09:37 To Merrick Leisure Centre and Aldi Return Pickup Newton Stewart (Aldi Car Park) 11:30 Return fare £3.50 Advance booking required. Member Hire GCT has 16-, 15-, and 8-seater minibuses and a fully wheelchair accessible electric car available for hire by community organisations. For information about membership and terms and conditions of hire see the GCT website or phone 07841 512449. GCT Ebike Club If you are interested in joining the GCT Ebike Club please see https://www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org/gctebike-club phone 07704 662925 or email jon@catstrand.com EXCURSIONS 24 August 2022 Wednesday THE BORDERS GARDEN Portmore Garden, Eddleston, Scottish Borders Our journey starts with a drive to Moffat for a coffee break, followed by a scenic drive through Upper Tweeddale to Peebles for a leisurely lunchtime stop which allows time to explore this interesting market town. Portmore is a 1.5 acre walled garden designed with taste and flair. The selection of colours in the planting is impressive. The glasshouses are full of tender plants displaying their own colours in full summer. The gardens contain an Italianate grotto, rose beds, borders and water garden. Plants for sale. Refreshments available. Partially wheelchair accessible. Pickups: Dalry (Underhill Bus Stop) 0900, New Galloway (CatStrand) 0910, Kirkcudbright (Harbour Square Bus Stop) 0935, Castle Douglas (Market Hill Car Park) 0955, Dalbeattie (Craignair St Bus Stop) 1015, Dumfries (Wickes Car Park) 1030 Admission £6. Fare £10 For more info please see the website: https://www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org/excursions Drivers Needed Galloway Community Transport needs your help to provide a wide range of community transport services across the Stewartry and beyond. MINIBUS DRIVING Minibus drivers with D1 (101 or by test) are needed to do volunteer and paid driving f or our wide range of member community groups. PATIENT TRANSPORT We also urgently need drivers with their own cars f or our patient transport service. Our volunteer patient transport drivers receive a generous mileage reimbursement and the satisf action of providing a vital service to vulnerable people in our communities. Interested? Email gct@catstrand.com or phone 07841 512449 Glenkens Gazette WHAT'S ON page 38 August/September AUGUST www.openfoodnetwork.org. uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop Thu 8, Ken Words: Glenkens Writers' Café, 7pm, CatStrand Fridays in August, CatStrand: Live Music in the Bar, 4-9pm Sat 27, Great Corsock Show, Corsock Village, see back page Sat 10, Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall Fri 5, Fundraising Ceilidh, Dalry Town Hall, peter@ catstrand.com Sat 27, Under the Bridge Story Telling Parade, 1-5pm, New Galloway to Ken Bridge Thu 11, Ken Words: Glenkens Writers' Café, 7pm, CatStrand Sat 27, Mark Zygadlo’s Water Organ, 12noon-5pm, Ken Bridge Thu 11, Arctic Winds Part 1: Nightlands, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sun 28, Mark Zygadlo’s Water Organ, 10am-5pm, Ken Bridge Fri 12-Tue 16, Glenkens Food Hub open for orders, www.openfoodnetwork.org. uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop Sun 28, Arts & Crafts Fair, 11am-3pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 13, Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall Fri 30, RLUPS Community Learning Programme, see p12&13 Sat 13-Sun 14, GB Ultras Elite Runners, Dalry Town Hall Thu 18, Arctic Winds Part 2: The Fallen Angels Of The Moine, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 19, Accessible Art for Wellbeing Workshop, 1011.30am, Crossmichael Village Hall & 12.30-2pm, Dalry Town Hall, see p7 Wed 24, GCT Bus Trip: The Borders Garden, see p37 Thu 25, RLUPS Community Learning Programme, see p12&13 Fri 26, Accessible Art for Wellbeing Workshop, 1011.30am, Kirkpatrick Durham Village Hall & 12.30-2pm, Dalry Town Hall, see p7 Fri 26-Tue 30, Glenkens Food Hub open for orders, Sun 28, Tom Bancroft's 'In Common', 7.30pm, CatStrand Wed 31, Darkness & Stars, 9.30-11pm, CCW, see p10 SEPTEMBER Glenkens Food Month, look out for posters and on Facebook Fri 2, Welcome to Your Forest, 9.30am-2pm, CCW, see p10 Sat 3, The Glenkens Story: The Early Peoples of Galloway, 10am-5pm, CatStrand Wed 7, Six Feet, Three Shoes, Dalry Town Hall, peter@catstrand.com Wed, Life as a Squirrel or Pine Martin, 6-7.30pm, CCW, see p10 Sat 10, Smith & McClennan, 7.30pm, CatStrand Wed 14, What is the Difference Between Fungi and Mushrooms, 6-7.30pm, CCW, see p10 Fri 16, Four hands One Piano: The Lisney Briggs Duo, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 16-Tue 20, Glenkens Food Hub open for orders, www.openfoodnetwork.org. uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop Thu 22, Pictish Trail, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 23, Steve Turner, 7.30pm, The Smiddy, Balmaclellan Sat 24, Steve Turner: Song Accompaniment Workshop, 11am, The Smiddy, Balmaclellan Sat 24, The Glenkens Story presents 'Crossing the Ken: Bridges, Fords and Ferries', 2pm, CatStrand Sat 24, Uilleann Duo 'Underarmed' album launch, 7.30pm, CatStrand by Sun 25, closing date for responses to 'Land Reform in a Net Zero Nation' consultation paper, see p3 Sun 25, Firelight Trio, 2pm, CatStrand Thu 29, Public Meeting: The Future of the Glenkens Community Centre, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall, see p31 Glenkens Gazette page 39 REGULAR EVENTS Balmaclellan Village Hall: Tuesday Afternoon Teas, 1st Tues each month, to book email warburton. julie@googlemail.com Glenkens Crafters, Wed 10am12noon, for info contact julia. higgins55@outlook.com Books in Balmaclellan Community Library, Wed 10.30–12.30 & 5.307pm; Fri 5.30-7.30pm; Sat 10.30am -12.30pm (tea & coffee available on Sat). Balmaclellan Blether: 3rd Thu each month. For info contact warburton. julie@googlemail.com Glenkens Art Group, Thu 2-4pm, for info contact t_leach1@sky.com Easiobics: Tue & Fri 9.30-10.30pm, contact mlfagan@live.co.uk Circuits: Sat 8-9am, contact John 07544 713 586 Kettelbells: Mon & Tue 6-7pm, contact John 07544 713 586 The Smiddy, Balmaclellan: Photography Workshops, Tuesdays in August, see p7 Music Workshops, Wednesdays in August, see p7 Life Drawing Workshops, Thursdays in August, see p7 Mindfullness Workshops, Thursdays in August, see p7 Yoga for Men, Fri in August, see p7 Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn: Craft Group, Fri 10am-12noon, includes tea & coffee, Lagwyne Hall Bairn Banter; family stay & play session, 0-7 years, Sat 10-11.45am, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn CatStrand, New Galloway: Margaret Morris Movement: Health Play (age 3-7), Mon (during term time), 3.45-4.30pm Margaret Morris Movement: Children’s Grades & Youth Dance (age 8-15), Mon (during term time), 4.30-5.30pm Youth Volunteers (age 11-16), monthly, 5.30–7.30pm Scriptless Drama Club (age 11-19), Tue, 5.30–6.30pm Newton Stewart Bus Service to Tesco, Wednesday evenings A Chance to Dance, Thu bi-weekly, 6–8pm Dance Weekenders (age 12+), Sat monthly, 1–4pm Art Explorers, Sat - monthly, 1011am (age 5–8) & 11.15am–12.30pm (age 8–12) CatStrand Youth Players, meet weekly to work on festival plays and an annual pantomime, contact briangm@ catstrand.com New Galloway Town Hall: Wee Messy Crafters, Wed, 1-2pm, contact weemessycrafters@gmail.com Zumba, Wed 6.30-7.20pm & 7.258.15pm, contact samantha.rushton@ hotmail.co.uk - booking essential Martial Arts, Thur 5.30-6.30pm (children) & 7-9pm (age 6 and up), contact Brian or Nancy on Facebook KMANews or kmabrian@gmail.com Gentle Yoga, Fri 5.45-6.45pm, contact kathyr64@hotmail.co.uk Informal Family Badminton, (net and racquets but no line markings), New Galloway Town Hall, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Dalry Library: Random Writers (age 12+), Thu biweekly, Dalry Library, 3.45–5pm Dalry Town Hall: Tai Chi, video-led instruction, Mon, 2-3pm, contact lesleyblissett52@gmail. com Dog Training, Tue, 7pm, contact Eric Broadhurst 07831 590 822 Film Nights, Wed, see listings opposite CatStrand Singers, Thu, 11am12.30pm, contact anne.chaurand@ btinternet.com Song Share, 1st Friday each month, 8-11pm, contact anne.chaurand@ btinternet.com Crafty Corner with tea & biscuits, Mon 2-4pm, contact Kristina on 07789 680468 Glenkens Producers Market, 2nd Sat each month, 10am-1pm, contact lesleyblissett52@gmail.com LING Lunches, Tue, Elevenses 11am & lunches from 12.30-2pm. No need to book, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Various: Sports Evenings with indoor bowling and table tennis, Tues 7-9pm, drop in or contact Ray on 01644 420 438 Tai Chi, Wed 10.30-11.30am, includes coffee & biscuits, contact Ju-lie gentletaichigroup@gmail.com Dalry Library & Customer Service Centre Main Street, Dalry, Tel: 01644 430 234 or 01556 502 643 Tuesday: For books and other walk-in services: 2-5pm Friday: For NEC Bus Pass and Blue Badge appointments and PCs: 11.30am – 12.30pm; for books and other walk-in services: 1 -4.30pm. Appointments can be booked in the library or on 01387 260 196. Crossmichael Heritage Centre Open Wed & Fri, 1.30-4.30pm Cub Scouts, Wed 6.15-7.30pm, Scout Hall, New Galloway Guided Nature Walks, Sundays in August, 2-4pm, see p7 USEFUL NUMBERS: ● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000 ● Police, non-emergency: 101 ● Doctor: 01644 420 234 ● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24 ● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000 Glenkens Gazette The Return of the Great Corsock Show page 40 Saturday 27 August is a date for all diaries, with the return of the Great Corsock Show! This much-loved Stewartry tradition returns after a Covid-induced absence, with the always popular baking and produce categories and activities including the scarecrow competition, tombola and cake sale - everything necessary for a great day out. Leaflets with all categories and information have been distributed around the Corsock area, and copies are also available from the porch of Corsock Hall or online at www.corsockhall.wixsite.com/ home/post/the-great-corsock-show-2022 Organisers are looking for donations for the raffle/tombola and would be very grateful for baking donations to the refreshments area too. If you can help, either with a donation or on the day itself, please get in touch on greatcorsockshow@ hotmail.com Also, keep an eye on the CorsockHall Facebook page for updates. See you there! The Corsock Show Team 20th GAMES IN NEW GALLOWAY SH THE SCOTTI E ALTERNATIV 2 GAMES 202 FEATURING: THE GIRD 'N' CLEEK WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP - SNAIL RACING - TRACTOR PULL - TOSSIN' THE SHEAF HURLIN' THE CURLIN' STANE - TUG O' WAR - PIPE BAND CLASSIC CAR SHOW - BAR - BARBECUE ...AND MUCH MORE! SUNDAY 7TH AUGUST Admission 2PM £6 Adult/£4 Senior Citizens/£1 Child AT NEW GALLOWAY PARK PROFITS SUPPORT LOCAL CHARITIES AND GOOD CAUSES. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Editing & Design: sarah.ade@gmail.com OCT/NOV COPY DEADLINE: 5 SEPT The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No. SC032050  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. 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For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Corsock, Crossmichael, Kirkpatrick Durham, Laurieston, Mossdale, New Galloway, Parton and St John’s Town of Dalry June/July 2022 ISSUE 130 Land Use in the Glenkens We live in the Glenkens; perhaps we have been here for generations, or perhaps we have only recently arrived. Regardless of timescale, the Glenkens is the place we call home, and where we find our sense of family and of community. Everyone has an interest in the land around us, whether it’s members of the community using spaces for recreation and amenity, farmers utilising the land for agriculture, or industry such as forest and wind interests. Another aspect which is becoming more and more influential is land use in response to the climate and biodiveristy crises. The BBC Scotland programme, Landward, recently had a focus on Galloway which gave a snapshot of the impact the surge of farmland sales to institutional investors is having. Farmland is being bought in order to plant trees for carbon capture and carbon credits, resulting in skyrocketing prices outpricing local buyers as well as changes to the landscape itself when farmland is turned into blanket forestry plantations. The Glenkens is traditionally a hill farming area, renowned for its Galloway cattle and blackface sheep. In the 1930s huge changes took place with the creation of the hydro system. Then, post-WW1, the Forestry Commission began to plant Sitka spruce to replace trees utilised in war efforts. Our human landscape is a constantly evolving one, changing in response to society’s needs and demands; we cannot expect it to stay static. However, we do have a responsibility to make sure that decisions made today which impact the world around us create the best outcome for future generations. So how do we allow change to happen while ensuring communities continue to thrive and are empowered in their landscape? We need the tools to enable our communities to be listened to by governing bodies and the people in charge of land use policies affecting us all. Here in the Glenkens, where land use is changing so rapidly, we need this before it’s too late. In this issue we look at Local Place Plans and how community councils can have an input, ensuring the people’s desires and needs for land use in the community are recorded and will be considered by the local authority, and therefore developers. Will Local Place Plans have an influence, will it be soon enough and what can we do now? In other parts of the British Isles, communities have responded strongly to rapid afforestation, such as the Save Leitrim campaign in Ireland and a 17,000 strong petition requesting changes to a scheme at Frongoch Farm in Cwrt-y-Cadno, Wales (see p22). A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative Del to y ivered ou than r door sup po ks to Gall rt from owa y Gl the Sch eme ens We have articles from local residents who are keenly feeling the loss of their wild spaces; voices from community groups liaising with the commercial forestry sector to enable a community voice in planting policy; views from a professional forester; and articles by local trusts and groups which are emerging in a bid to gain community footing among the corporate bodies who control more and more of the land around us. Included are perspectives from advocates for Galloway as a National Park, as well as information on international mining interests scoping in the Glenkens and what this may mean for us. Small scale woodland management, and the potential for woodlots and woodland crofts or smallholdings, are considered. Local food production is looked at – the demand is increasing, but will we lose the ability to produce food through losing our farms, and our farmers? And we delve into forestry policy and try find out how effective the plantations spreading across our hills actually are in fighting the climate crisis. In this issue of the Gazette, we don't have space to include all perspectives if you feel an issue hasn't been covered and have a piece you would like to submit, please get in touch. To read this issue's land use focus, turn to page 15... www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 New Faces for Balmaclellan Stores Balmaclellan has recently welcomed new owners to Balmaclellan Stores in the heart of the village. Debbie Murdoch who took over as shop manager from her parents six years ago has handed over to Jackie and Chris Wells. Balmaclellan Community Council chair Martin Warnock presented flowers and cards to Debbie on behalf of the village to thank her for all her hard work over the past six years - especially during lockdown when the shop continued to provide essential support to the community. Debbie received a British Empire Medal for services to the community during this time. Jackie and Chris and family have moved up to the Glenkens from Kent to start their new life as shopowners. Martin presented a welcome card and flowers from locals who are delighted to see the shop continue as the hub of village life. Debbie has been working with them during a handover period while they adjust to their new life in the village and meet all the regular customers. Gill Warnock New owners Jackie and Chris outside the shop in Balmaclellan. SCOTTISH ALTERNATIVE GAMES SET TO RETURN After missing two years because of the pandemic, the Alternative Games will be back on Sunday 7 August! Since moving from Parton in 2001, the popular event had been held on the first Sunday in August every year until the Covid outbreak prevented New Galloway’s 20th staging of the Games in 2020. Again in 2021, plans were thwarted by the continuing pandemic restrictions but thankfully now, as we slowly return to something like normal, we will finally celebrate the 20th Alternative Games in New Galloway - and we look forward to seeing everybody there! The event is organised by a small committee and we greatly appreciate all of the willing volunteers who turn out to help on the day with the set-up/take down. We would also appreciate additional help on the organising committee too. If you would be willing to help out, please get in touch on bjedgar19@gmail.com or 01644 420 374. News from WriteOn WriteOn, the online offspring of the Glenkens Writing Group, has launched a monthly blog and is starting to return to live in-person meetings. WriteOn evolved from the book project Writedown*, published in 2020, in which the Glenkens Writing Group group recorded early experiences of lockdown. Looking back on the book now, I’m struck by how strange it all seemed to us then, and how quickly we’ve become used to a very different world. Although there are no current plans for a further book, the new monthly blog will publish on a rolling basis the work of WriteOn’s 25 members - ranging from fiction and poetry to memoir and travel writing and much else besides. You can access the blog at www.writeongalloway.wordpress. com or you can find us via the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust website www.gcat.scot We currently have space for new members, and when there are no spaces we keep a waiting list. If you’re interested in joining you can email me at writeongalloway@gmail.com *Writedown is available from CatStrand priced £7 (£9 incl p&p). Margaret Elphinstone Glenkens Gazette page 3 CLIMATE CHANGE PANEL Four young people from Dalry - Elizabeth Stevenson (12), Laya McCallie (12), Keshet Lamb (10) and Daniel Williamson (12) attended the Climate Change Panel for Dalry Residents. 15 members of the community, made up of 11 adults and four young people, met in Dalry Town Hall to discuss ideas for how Dumfries & Galloway can become net zero by 2025. Dr Jamie Hamilton from the Community Chartering Network, who organised the event, said: “All the adults in the room were bowled over by the intelligent and articulate contribution of the young citizens to the complex discussion and outcomes, which would have been much the poorer without them.” Here Laya and Elizabeth give an overview of the discussion: The term net zero means achieving a balance between the carbon emitted into the atmosphere, and the carbon removed from it. Carbon is emitted through things like power stations and exhaust fumes from cars. Carbon is removed through things like forests, peatland, sea plants and grasslands, where the process of photosynthesis absorbs carbon. At the meeting, many points were brought up by young and older residents about conditions within the village. Some of the points raised were: • school funding and school transport. Young residents experienced that teachers were bringing up the fact that they couldn't supply certain class materials because they had not been returned and that they could not buy any more due to the budget. • young residents were also concerned with the fact that their bus to school had stopped picking some of them up, and one had difficulty getting in because her family was having car troubles. • forestry; people expressed their frustration on the fact that the trees that were being planted were bad for the environment, and that people were getting kicked out of their houses for space for trees to be planted; this made most people at the panel believe that companies just bought land to plant trees, look good and make money without checking if it would be good for the local people and environment or not. • younger people weren't getting drawn to the area because some houses had little or no wifi. We enjoyed the meeting, and I think all the young participants felt happy because we felt that we were being listened to. Pictured above is the event, with the table which included the young Dalry citizens at the back. Our Covenanter Heritage Some two years ago Dalry Town Hall, with support from Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership and the Glenkens & District Trust, commissioned a video called Dalry and the Glenkens Rising. This told the story of a local rising against religious persecution, that started in Dalry in 1666, and its cruel aftermath. This became part of the Covenanting movement. The plan has always been to show the video within Dalry Town Hall to attract visitors to the Glenkens and to encourage interest in our heritage. Unfortunately, Covid restrictions delayed this aspect of the project until this year. What we now hope to do is to show the video between 2pm and 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer. But to enable this we need a small group of volunteers willing to join a rota to be present within the hall during these periods. Some training will be provided in setting up the projection equipment, but it is really no more complicated than a home video system. Equally, there is no expectation that volunteers will be historians – the video explains it all. If you are interested in helping with this project, please contact me on 07776 034 260 or at jamescreid@ hotmail.co.uk Jim Reid Glenkens Gazette LING are thrilled that, after interviewing some really excellent applicants, we have made three fabulous appointments. page 4 First, we have a Project Manager to oversee the renovation and refurbishment of the Town Hall - Ronnie Bradford. Secondly, we have an Events, Activities and Inclusion Manager - Angie Bradford. Angie will take the place of Neil Paterson, but with a wider brief and a two-year position. Angie comes to us from Ferry Friends, with Creetown Initiative, who will miss her sorely. And, yes, you probably spotted that the Bradfords are a couple; completely separate interview panels, no overlap in decision-making - just two excellent, separate appointments. And last, but Loch Ken Trust Summer Plans The Loch Ken Trust is a new charity, set up to support Loch Ken and the surrounding communities. Overseen by a Board of Trustees, the Trust runs the Loch Ken Ranger Service and the Boat Registration Service, helping users and stakeholders around the Loch. Power Boat Registrations are handled by the team at the Loch Ken Marina, who can be contacted for more details. The Loch Ken Ranger Service, led by Ken Scott, is working to support responsible access and compliance with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. To get in touch, email lktranger@ protonmail.com or call 07918 300889. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Trust or to find out more about their work, visit www. lochken.org.uk. LAUNCH OF THE DRAGON BOATS We are pleased to announce the launch of dragon boats on Loch Ken on 24 July - save the date! Before this date we need to have some fully trained helms who are prepared to go on a rota and we are offering training dates at the Galloway Activity Centre (GAC), on either Saturday 16 or Sunday 17 July. There is no cost attached to the training, and up to six people can be trained each day so it really is first come first served. Senior instructor, Andy, from the GAC will be our trainer. The day will start at 9am until midday on theory/safety, etc. After an hour’s break for lunch each participant will helm under supervision, finishing at 4pm. On completion of this training you will be ready to helm. In the afternoon only we will also need people to be paddlers from 1pm to 4pm, to enable our trainee helms to practice. Please contact our secretary Joyce on pflssw@gmail.com if you are interested in training and/or paddling either days. Paddlers for Life by no means least, we have a Youth Activities and Development Worker Olivia Donald; Olivia brings a wealth of experience and will work closely with Cat at the Catstrand. All three seem delighted to be joining us and we are very pleased indeed to be welcoming all three. Our thanks go to Architectural Heritage Fund, the Scottish Government’s Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund, and GDT and the Blackcraig Community Fund, respectively, for the grant funding that underpins these appointments. Grant giving bodies like these provide us and our community, not just grant funding that makes things possible, but also a wealth of advice, support and learning opportunities which is much appreciated. Bob Glaister, LING Dear Kenmure Dog Walkers, Can anyone walking a dog around Kenmure Castle grounds please remember to keep it on a lead at all times. Today a dog which was not on a lead attacked and mauled a sheep and we had to inform the farmer. Luckily we managed to get the dog off the sheep but it was a horrible situation, and there were also lambs in field. Thank you, A Concerned Resident Glenkens Gazette page 5 GAVIN'S UKRAINE FUNDRAISER Gavin McGhie and his brother Frank walked non-stop round Clatteringshaws Loch, a 60-mile round trip, to raise funds for people in need in the Ukraine. "I would like to thank everyone for their kind donations", said Gavin. "Especially a huge 'thank you' to my beautiful wife Melissa for the posters and all her help, and a great big thanks to our good friend Steve Grimshaw for his support round the challenge and bacon rolls and coffee at 2am at Glentrool! And thanks to the Gazette for sharing this, and to readers for contributing!" A grand total of £3,500 was raised and sent to the Humanitarian Appeal for Ukraine. Gavin and Frank at the end of their walk holding the Ukranian flag. Open Garden The gardens at Balmaclellan House were opened again on Sunday 24 April under Scotland's Gardens Scheme (SGS). The weather was glorious and there were more than 130 visitors in attendance over the day, with just under £1,000 raised for charity. This year the proceeds were split between SGS and Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, with the latter providing a team of volunteers to assist with the teas and washing up on the day. Thank you to all who helped out, especially Ian and Anne who spent most of the afternoon by the sink! The formal garden, which is based on the design of the Balmaclellan Mirror, was particularly popular this year and it was great to have a bronze replica of the mirror on loan from The Smiddy 07709 144 299 - wood burners - multi-fuel stoves - open fires - Agas - Rayburns - birds nest removal with CCTV inspection - certificates issued - feel free to call for advice - Find me on Facebook Rook discord as wings, a black cloud, descend to roost. Leafless trees blur in failing light, evening gives way to night. Winter dusk is that magic time of things half seen, where sounds from far seem near. Birds finally settle, harsh voices fall silent among untidy nests. in Balmaclellan for visitors to see. A further copy of the mirror is currently on display in the Stewartry Museum in Kirkcudbright, in an exhibition running in tandem with the Galloway Hoard exhibition which runs until 10 July. Plant sales, courtesy of Billy Orr of Blackthorn Nurseries, were also popular, as was the display of classic and sports cars. The lovely weather allowed people to linger and socialise whilst enjoying the views and having cups of tea, something which has not always been easy over the last few years. Alan Smith David Tallontire CHIMNEY SWEEP Covering the Glenkens & further afield Settling 唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀Ⰰ 䰀漀漀猀攀 䌀漀瘀攀爀猀Ⰰ 䘀愀戀爀椀挀猀Ⰰ 䌀甀猀栀椀漀渀猀 刀攀昀椀氀氀攀搀 䘀爀攀攀 䔀猀琀椀洀愀琀攀猀 吀栀攀 圀漀爀欀猀栀漀瀀Ⰰ 䴀漀渀礀戀甀椀攀Ⰰ 䌀漀爀猀漀挀欀⸀ 䐀䜀㜀 ㌀䐀夀 眀眀眀⸀䠀愀爀爀椀猀ⴀ唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀 ㄀㘀㐀㐀 㐀㐀 㔀㈀㤀 by Anne Micklethwaite #Tossers There will be an update on the #Tossers campaign featured last edition in the August/September issue of the Gazette. In the meantime, remember to send in your examples of #tossers to glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 6 Spring Fling's 20th Year Nearly 100 artists and makers are ready to welcome back the public for Dumfries and Galloway’s annual open studios event. A total of 96 participants from all parts of the region will throw open their studio doors and welcome in the public between 2-5 June for Spring Fling. Visitors can get behind the scenes of artistic practice, learning about their processes and inspirations, and have the opportunity to buy a piece of art direct from the artist. This is the 20th Spring Fling and will mark the first full in-person event since the pandemic. Catherine Corfield, who moved to St John’s Town of Dalry last year, is one of the artists participating for the first time. “I’m so excited to be part of such a prestigious event - it brings so many people to the region and has huge artistic importance. I’m really looking forward to being able to talk to people in person; it’s something I have really missed during the pandemic.” Catherine, who is a landscape oil painter, will be Dalry-based landscape artist Catherine Corfield holding her is on the Pink Route for this year's Spring Fling event. open studios event at the CatStrand in Dawdry near Kirkpatrick Durham; New Galloway where she currently Jo Gallant, Pete Machell and Geoff has her work on display and where Forrest near Mossdale; and Fitch & she works as the CatStrand Youth McAndrew, Amanda Simmons and Arts Coordinator. Natalie Vardey near Corsock. Some other Spring Fling artists in To find out more about the event and around the Glenkens are Adam visit www.spring-fling.co.uk Booth, Pamela Grace and Clare ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY SCANNING Dairy & Sucklers; Ageing, Twin & Barren Detection. Trailer system includes triplets, marking and shedding. Pregnancy and number of pups. For bookings and info: Duncan Kennedy 07860 474001 dk@passcan.co.uk www.passcan.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 7 STEERING FOR CHANGE The Glenkens & District Community Action Plan (CAP) Steering Group held its first full meeting in early May. The key role of the steering group is to be the custodian of the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan, and the Terms of Reference of the group can be found on www.glenkenstrust.org. uk. The steering group is supported by Helen Keron, the executive manager at the Glenken Community & Arts Trust, and the bulk of the meeting was spent reviewing progress against the Plan and agreeing the areas of focus going forward. The Glenkens and District Trust also provided an update about their funding strategy and plans, so that the local context that the Community Action Plan sits in is continuously updated. The steering group was pleased to see progress by community groups on a number of projects highlighted in the CAP, including the development of a community-wide communications tool led by GCAT, a youth work project led by Local Initiatives in New Galloway and the plan for a distribution network for local produce, led by Propagate. They also noted the recent publication of the Loch Ken Plan by the Loch Ken Trust, which reinforces many of the priorities of the Community Action Plan. Fiona Smith, Interim Chair of the CAP Steering Group said: “It was great to come together as the full group for the first time. We are all aware that the CAP is very ambitious and will take time, energy and funding to progress, so we agreed we should encourage realistic planning and timescales for these important projects and priorities. Having said that, becoming a Carbon Neutral Community is a particular priority at present, with the main challenge being how to balance short-term delivery with really ambitious projects.” Helen, together with the new GCAT ‘Connecting in Communities' team, is planning to get out and about over the next few months to meet as many local organisations as possible to discuss the Community Action Plan and the priorities within it. The Steering Group decided that a Glenkens Forum on the topic of Food and Farming would be an important next step, and that will be planned for the summer. Pictured are members of the newly formed CAP Steering Group. Inner Peace Reiki REIKI BY SANDRA MAYSON IPHM REIKI MASTER PRACTITIONER Is your pet feeling stress, anxiety or pain? Reiki can help restore their body’s natural ability to heal and create balance. Distance or face to face sessions for both humans & animals. Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP Solicitors and Estate Agents Dumfries & Galloway 01556 503744 www.ggblaw.co.uk All legal advice Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie Kirkcudbright and Dumfries Get in touch with Sandra on 01644 440218, email innerpeacereiki@btinternet.com Full PPE & Insured Approved Therapist Glenkens Gazette page 8 GLENKENS MUSINGS The CatStrand Youth Players When I started to work/volunteer at the CatStrand nearly six years ago, I never knew how popular and successful the youth players had been. I only joined in my late teens because I went through a little dark period and was looking for a way out of it. And I’m so glad I did because I can honestly say it is the most fun I have ever had. The SCDA Festivals that happen annually, (apart from 2020-2021 due to Covid) are always a fun and rewarding time. I have been involved with them since 2018 under the watchful eye of award-winning directors Zoe Kirkpatrick and Brian Edgar. When this year’s festival date was set, I was happy to just be behind the scenes, helping Brian as the director. I was stunned and honoured when Brian asked if I’d like to try. The play we decided to Produce is ‘Lockdown’ by Douglas Craven. Set in a dark classroom, eight students sit in an “official” lockdown, (note: not the ones we’re used too!) not knowing if it's just a drill or an actual emergency. When a hysterical first year bolts from the classroom and the teacher rushes after them, the remaining students are left alone to decide if it’s safer to stay or run. So far with this production we have had amazing success! In the District round at The Fullarton in Castle Douglas, we picked up four awards The Youth Players team in rehearsal at the CatStrand. which we are very grateful for. The next round at the not hesitate to contact the CatStrand, Western Divisional final in Brian or myself - Youth Players is open Dunoon, we also did really well, being people aged from 12 to 18. placed first and now being sent to A massive thank you to all the represent the west at the Scottish Youth cast and crew of ‘Lockdown’ and for Final in Bathgate on 11 June. everybody's support towards us. CatStrand Players is such a great Thank you again to Brian for giving me time and such a laugh. It brings people together and gives a distraction a chance! We all hope we do you, the Glenkens from a problematic world. If you would like to get involved with the players and the South West, proud in June. in any shape or form or would like James Wallace some more information, please do Talking Murder in Dalry Meet four successful crime authors talking about their inspirations and how they turn a simple idea into gripping page turners. Having spent twenty-seven years in the Metropolitan Police, Ian Robinson is now a full-time writer. Seven of his crime novels have been published and Rubicon was optioned with the BBC for a six-part TV series. Ian is published by Fahrenheit Press and The Book Folks of London. Jackie Baldwin sets much of her work in Dumfries and Galloway and was a solicitor in Dumfries for twenty years. , was published Her debut crime novel, by Killer Reads, Harper Collins in 2016. The second in the series , was published in 2018 with the third, John Dean, a former journalist who specialised in crime for much of his career, is the creator of the DCI John Blizzard and DCI Jack Harris series of novels inspired by the northern cities of his working life and the wild countryside of his Scottish home. He is published by The Book Folks of London Ann Bloxwich is a lifelong fan of crime fiction who started writing after attending her first crime writing festival in was Harrogate. Her debut novel published by Dark Edge Press in the summer of 2021. Dalry Town Hall Friday June 24 at 7.30pm Tickets £10 Booking details available from www.dalrytownhall.co.uk Dalry will support National Crime Reading Month in June by staging an 'In Conversation With…' event featuring crime writers Jackie Baldwin, Ian Robinson, Ann Bloxwich and John Dean. National Crime Reading Month is an initiative developed and run by the Crime Writers’ Association, and is staged this year in collaboration with The Reading Agency. It aims to bring new books to existing readers and attract new readers to one of the most popular and best-selling genres. The Dalry event will take place in Dalry Town Hall, at 7.30pm on Friday 24 June. Many Gazette readers may be familiar with Ian Robinson as he has been featured in previous editions, having previously been based in the Glenkens. Ian spent 27 years working in the Metropolitan Police and is now a fulltime writer. Seven of his crime novels have been published and Rubicon was optioned with the BBC for a six-part TV series. Ian is published by Fahrenheit Press and The Book Folks of London. Ian said: "When I first moved to Scotland, I wrote in The Clachan Inn while my daughter was at the local playgroup. It’s an honour to be invited back to Dalry for National Crime Reading Month." Tickets for the event are £10 and are available from www.dalrytownhall.co.uk – follow the link to DTH Promotions. For more information please contact John Dean on 07889 554 931, and to find out more about National Crime Reading Month visit www.thecwa.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 9 CatStrand Highlights There is plenty to look forward in the CatStrand Arts programme as we move into the summer months - here’s some of the things I am most looking forward to - I hope to see you there! In The Weeds: An Tobar and Mull Theatre, Friday 3 June A gothic thriller about who gets to claim ownership of the land we all live on. Exploring island identity and our troubled relationship with the natural environment. The Galloway Agreement: Ken Bridge Song Suite, Sunday 12 June, Dalry Town Hall This is a special concert launching a programme of Ken Bridge bicentenary Watson Birdsong Day, Saturday 25 June, Dalry Town Hall A day dedicated to Donald Watson and bird song. Events include a birdsong and landscape walk, the birdsong recording studio, the book launch of Jackdaws and Other Friends, and culminates in The Conference of Birds concert with Peter Cowdry SongWave Choir: Songs of the Summer, Sunday 25 June, Crossmichael Church Castle Douglas based choir, SongWave, known throughout the region for their uplifting and entertaining performances, present a concert based on songs of community, friendship, changing seasons and the many cycles of life. Peter Renwick, Arts Culture and Heritage Manager, CatStrand An Tobar and Mull Theatre will present In the Weeds on Friday 3 June. events. Including the premier of Wendy Stewart’s Ken Bridge Song Suite which takes The River Ken, The Crossing, and the life of engineer John Rennie as inspiration. For full listings and details of events visit www.gcat.scot or pick up a CatStrand brochure from retail outlets in and around the Glenkens. CATSTRAND EST 2007 A GLENKENS STREAM OF ARTS & EVENTS CATSTRAND JUNE HIGHLIGHTS The CatStrand Young Creatives have a brilliant summer programme lined up, with events and activities for ages ranging from five to 25. 1ST James Yorkston Jon Thorne & Ranjana Ghatak’s Music crosses the worlds of Indian Classical, Jazz and Folk music. Expect new pieces exploring the beauty of sacred vocal music played with a new flavour and excitement.. Some of the exciting things on offer during June and July are: - A Youth Beatz Excursion, which is an accompanied trip to the Youth Beatz festival. 3RD - Stomping Ground Creative are hosting a Music in Film workshop over six weeks. - A Drama Rama Workshop led by CatStrand's youth worker, Cat, who will take children on a fun, creative adventure to a magical land, exploring through role-play, drama, movement and storytelling. - Eco Art Forest School sessions - led by Kay from Irose Studio, children will gather materials outdoors and learn how to make their own art materials such as ink, paint, and painting tools before returning to the Catstrand to make their own art. For full information, please visit the CatStrand website at www.gcat.scot or take a look at the CatStrand programme. YYorkston, Thorne & Ghatak 7:30pm, CatStrand 9TH In The Weeds: An Tobar and Mull Theatre 7:30pm Caststrand 24TH & 25TH Award-winning writer and performer Skye Loneragan brings her fragmented portrayal of motherhood, sisterhood and experience of loved ones debilitating mental illness. 25TH A gothic thriller about who gets to claim ownership of the land we all live on. Exploring island identity and our troubled relationship to the natural environment. 12TH The Galloway Agreement - Ken Bridge Song 7:30pm, Dalry Town Hall This is a special concert launching a programme of Ken Bridge bicentenary events. Including the premier of Wendy Stewart’s Ken Bridge Song Suite Watson Birdsong Day Various times, Dalry A day dedicated to Donald Watson and Bird Song. Events include a Birdsong and Landscape Walk, the Birdsong recording Studio, The book launch of Jackdaws and Other Friends, and Culminates in The Conference of Birds Concert with Peter Cowdry Bancroft & Lyne 7:30pm , CatStrand Heralded as a ‘must see’ act at a recent Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival, New York they have performed at many venues and festivals around the UK, Europe and North America. Though This Be Madness Fri 7:30pm, CatStrand Babes in arms performance Sat 10:30am, Catstrand 25TH SongWave Choir: Songs of the Summer Crossmichael Church , 3:00PM Castle Douglas based choir, SongWave, are known throughout the region for their uplifting and entertaining performances present a concert will be based on songs of community, friendship, changing seasons and the many cycles of life. Glenkens Gazette Threave Landscape Restoration Project page 10 FIRST YEAR HIGHLIGHTS Smart Cows, Grazing & Access • Over 6000 metres of fencing removed • 1 Herbivore Impact Assessment completed • Archaeological Surveys completed over entire site Dam Busters, Ponds & Scrapes e De er Riv • 14 Belted Galloways trained and wearing the collars 2021 saw the start of the National Trust for Scotland’s Threave Landscape Restoration Project, with the re-establishing of natural processes and habitats across the 80 hectare Threave Nature Reserve at Kelton Mains near Castle Douglas. The river has been reconnected to the wetlands, hardy native cattle are grazing the land, with fences and non-native trees being removed. The site aims to become a restored woodland-wetland ecosystem, self-sustaining and self-adapting to Scotland’s changing climate. Have a look at what we have done in our first year and if you have any queries or want to get involved, get in touch… • 35 metres of Embankment removed • 735 metres of drains filled in • 7.3 hectares of wetland created • 160 metres of drystone dyke removed • 1 bird hide moved • 15 ponds & Scrapes • 31 soil samples taken • 2415 metres of new grass paths around Kelton Mains Wilder Woods Threave Castle Mill Burn Restoration • 4.4 hectares of non-native conifers/commercial plantation removed Wetland reconnected to river • 16,000 trees ordered and ready for planting • 158 Alder Planted • 6 ‘kickers’ Installed • 147 Rowan Planted • 1 heavily poached section re-profiled • 397 Aspen trees planted • Year 1 invertebrate surveys completed • Year 1 fish surveys completed • 1 brash feature installed • 3 v-shaped flow detectors installed • 2 owl boxes installed River Dee Kelton Mains Farmhouse Cas Dougtle las 2 mil es PROJECT IN FOCUS Glenkens Gazette page 11 Mammals in the Garden Are there wild mammals in your Galloway garden? Help us find out! as a shy mammal, is at home in many urban watercourses. Yet we rarely see our mammal neighbours, mainly because they are active during the night, whilst we are asleep. Which wild mammals share your living spaces, possibly more than you think?! to monitor wild mammals whilst you sleep. The equipment will be automatically triggered to record when an animal is detected close-by, and the information collected will assist local and national conservation projects. There are more than 60 species of wild mammals resident in The project is funded through Scotland and, discounting those the Galloway Glens ‘Our that live in Heritage’ the sea, the Small Grants majority of scheme. The them are found scheme is close to human overseen by habitation. Anna Harvey, A project Galloway led by South Glens West Scotland Administrator. Environmental Anna said: Information “The ‘Wild Centre Mammals (SWSEIC) at Home’ is seeking project is an volunteers in opportunity for the Galloway people to find Glens area A badger in a Stewartry garden captured with an infrared night camera. out about any willing to wild visitors host an infrato their Ken/ red camera If you live in the Ken/Dee Dee gardens or open spaces, or a bat detector to better Valley, between Carsphairn while also improving our wildlife understand our wild neighbours and Kirkcudbright Bay, and records by supplementing and their distribution. would like to find out about SWSEIC’s database of sightings. your wild neighbours, now Remote Highland Glens and This is ‘citizen science’ in action! is your opportunity. Contact wilderness areas are certainly A big thank you to the National Peter Norman from South important for wildlife, but there Lottery Heritage Fund for West Scotland Environmental are more species of mammal in supporting this great project.” Information Centre (SWSEIC) our towns, villages and gardens. on pnorman@swseic.org.uk to A number of infrared clips Some wild mammals, especially borrow an infra-red camera or have already been filmed and bats, actually live in the same a bat detector, together with published. Visit the SWSEIC buildings as us. Red foxes expert assistance from SWSEIC. channel on www.youtube.co.uk reach their greatest population Both pieces of equipment can to see clips – some expected density in towns and cities, and be set up in your garden or local sightings and some quite even the otter, often thought of greenspace and left unattended unexpected! Sponsored page, working in partnership W W W. G A L L O W AY G L E N S . O R G Glenkens Gazette page 12 On the Trail of a Broken Shoe Ten years ago John Nelson rode into the Highlands on a Clydesdale horse, following in the footsteps of an ancestor’s pursuit of his stolen horse. Now, after continuing his research into that little known story and many other tales, John has published the beautifully produced book On the Trail of a Broken Shoe. It is available locally at Crossmichael Shop, CatStrand in New Galloway, Tarff Country in Dumfries, Smarts bookshop in Castle Douglas, Gallovidia Books in Kirkcudbright and Old Bank Books in Wigtown. SOPHIE'S POEM Spring is Here Flowers blooming all around, Plants growing in the ground, Leaves growing on the trees, Everywhere there are bees In this tranquil spring all around me, I wonder how this came to be, In this peace, this order, this calm, I’m surrounded by so much charm Birds chirping in the wood, Piglets rolling in the mud, Blue skies everyday, All grey clouds have gone away I wish to be for evermore, Here standing on this forest floor, For evermore my ears ringing, With bees buzzing and birds singing By Sophie Roberts Glenkens - Producers' Market Shop online: www.ballardsbutchers.co.uk Email: shop@ballardsbutchers.co.uk Tel: 01556 502 501 Free Local Delivery Tues & Fri (orders over £20) Wide Variety of Local Produce Butcher Meat Fruit & Veg Milk & Bread Available to order 2nd Saturday Monthly Dalry Town Hall, 10am-1pm - 4th June & 9th July - NB change of date for June only Fresh vegetables, baked goods, preserves, bread, fresh meat, smoked products, real ale and artisan gin, chocolates, fresh pasta, handmade crafts and cards, plants and more... Want to know what’s going on? Then visit www.dalrytownhall.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 13 Watson Birds Branches Out A significant number of Donald Watson’s paintings were exhibited at Fingask Castle in Perthshire during their annual Fingask Follies event. Using the excellent printing services of Small Print in Castle Douglas, three A3 sized posters, six A4 posters, 12 letter cards and six postcards are available for purchase at the CatStrand shop and at various Watson Bird events. Roger Crofts Pictured below is the Fingask Castle exhibition of Donald Watson's paintings. The paintings shown were a number that had been found during a review of Donald Watson's archive - now superbly framed by Leo Blamire in Castle Douglas - along with a variety of his other paintings. Having the project showcased in this manner means that Watson Birds, our new trails, etc, will reach a much wider audience, and hopefully bring more people to the Glenkens. Many people have been asking for cards of Donald Watson’s paintings. CROSSMICHAEL HERITAGE CENTRE Crossmichael Heritage Centre re-opened its doors on the 1 June. The heritage centre, which was opened originally by Ted Cowan and Lizanne Henderson, will be open each Wednesday and Friday afternoon between 1.30pm and 4.30pm - do drop in to see the excellent local history exhibition. PUBLIC MEETING There will be a public meeting in Dalry Town Hall on Thursday 23 June at 7pm to discuss the management/ ownership structure of the town hall. Residents of the Parish of St John’s Town of Dalry are invited by the Dalry Town Hall Management Committee to attend a meeting at the above time and place to discuss and vote on the proposal: “That the building and grounds of Dalry Town Hall be acquired by a charitable body namely Dalry Town Hall SCIO from the present historic Trust, Dalry Town Hall Trust, through such legal means as are appropriate” Note: A SCIO is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation and the proposed move is explained in the article on page 32. J Reid, Vice Chair, Dalry Town Hall Management Committee Kindling available Family and friends coming to stay? Short of space? Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 www.covenanters-holidaycottagescotland.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 14 Ted Cowan and Local Music My first introduction to Ted was through a book he edited called The People’s Past: Scottish Folk, Scottish History (1980). At the time I was a research student, doing fieldwork in the Glenkens, and quickly discovering that by asking questions about music-making I was also learning a great deal about local history. Many historians are thirled to the written record as a primary source of information. For Ted, however, songs and stories were just as important to an understanding of history, revealing a great deal about people’s view of themselves and the times they lived in. He had a particular interest in ballads, a type of song that tells a story: another of his books is called The Ballad in Scottish History (2000). I love to sing ballads, and I shared the stage with Ted several times. Ted passionately wanted to see D&G better known and understood. He asked me to contribute a chapter on music and dance to the book Dumfries and Galloway, People and Place c.17001914 (2019). He especially wanted me to include the local version of the ballad ‘Lord Ronald’, which was written down by William McMath of Airds of Kells in the late 19th century. We had good fun launching that publication at Wigtown Book Festival. In recent years Ted was instrumental in encouraging me to revisit, share and write about my research in the Glenkens. For example, I have greatly enjoyed taking part in the work of groups like ‘The Glenkens Story’, ‘Ken Words’, ‘Carsphairn Heritage Initiative’ and ‘Dalry Heritage Group’. Tributes to Ted in the last issue of the Gazette all conveyed what good company he was. We both, I think, actively sought opportunities to engage with audiences outside academic settings. He was one of several local contributors at a Ken Words event for Logan Paterson, and as I recall his performance of Logan’s humorous poem McSkimming’s Flaughterin' Spade had everyone in stitches. It was my impression that he delighted in being a participant in, as much as an observer of, local culture. To put it another way, as others have noted, while Ted was happy to initiate and be the ‘front man’, he also liked to be in the audience. On my last visit to Ted, I discussed plans for a new book about local music and dance. Typically generous, he offered to help in any way he could, and I left with a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm. While he is greatly missed, I have no doubt that Ted’s contribution to the Glenkens and its folk will continue to make an impact in the years to come, including for myself. Not least because, in his own words, folk tradition "enables us to catch the echo of the people’s past across the wide valleys of Time". Ted and Jo giving a presentation on ballads in Dumfries in 1986. Jo Miller An Evolving Conversation with the Hill A summit book or summit register is a traditional way of recording visitors to the top of a mountain. The book on Waterside Hill is tucked away in an inobtrusive, weatherproof canister at the cairn where, as well as noting their presence at the summit, visitors are invited to take in their surroundings and relate something of the experience. These personal reflections will provide a layer of information and nuance that explores sense of place over a long period, with people offering thoughts in the course of their everyday wanderings, special visits, or long-distance walks, but always in their own time. The summit box will be available until 23 September 2022, and the first hundred arrivals who open it to write, or draw, in the register will find a small token left for them to take in return for their musings. The tokens, prepared by Morag Paterson, consist of a traditional photograph of Waterside hill made into a postcard which offers a memoir of the hill now, and a small reproduction of a monoprint, presented on a plantable card impregnated with wildflower seeds, which gestures back towards the village and an ongoing wildflower planting project taking place this summer. A parallel summit box will be also be left at a location in Dalry, beginning with the old phone box, to allow contributions from different people, and engaging with Waterside Hill from a different vantage point. Some tokens will also be available in the phone box. Jane McBeth will be caretaker of the books until the autumn, when she and Morag will gather them in and add their own reflections. The registers will then travel from place to place in the community where they can be read and enjoyed. Although the project is initially for a sixmonth period, the intention is to continue replacing the book on the summit cairn over the coming years to create an ongoing record of the changes on the hill, and how people experience and reflect on this change in the landscape. The summit box, where walkers can leave their comments, is nestled into the cairn at the top of Waterside Hill. This project concept has been developed by Morag Paterson (artist) and Jane McBeth (Ken Words) in association with Glenkens Community & Arts Trust and funded by Creative Scotland. Jane McBeth Land Use in the Glenkens Glenkens Gazette page 15 Communities for Diverse Forestry With land sales accelerating by the day and new commercial forestry schemes expanding rapidly across the Glenkens, we wanted to give you an update on what Communities for Diverse Forestry (CDF) have been doing. We’re lobbying at both a local and national level for new woodland creation to be a mixture of tree species. This is important not only from a visual perspective, but also due to the fact that well structured, mixed forests offer habitat for more species and can be more resilient to pests, diseases and climate change, therefore providing a response to the climate and biodiversity emergency which monoculture plantations do not. We’re calling for meaningful community engagement that fully explores Sense of Place and incorporates invaluable local expertise re access routes, archaeological features, cultural history and resident flora and fauna, etc. Protecting our peatlands and open habitats is also important, and we’d like to see joined up thinking around cumulative proposals that ensures these habitats are connected rather than swallowed up. Peat is one of our most important carbon stores and it’s important that we don’t release that carbon unnecessarily by planting trees in the wrong places. Timber and forests are a valuable resource, provide jobs and have the potential to provide long term carbon sequestration when used in buildings. However, planting on peat, burning it for electricity in large scale power stations and churning out short shelf-life products has the opposite effect. We’re contributing to a group response to the UK Forest Standard review and recently spoke at a fringe event at the Scottish Labour conference organised by the Woodland Trust. The event was chaired by Claudia Beamish and Colin Smyth MSP was also on the panel. In February we had a virtual meeting with Màiri McAllan, the minister for environment and land reform, which gave us the chance to present our concerns to the government directly. We were very clear that we need urgent help to develop a more holistic view when woodland targets are rolled out as the current ‘gold rush’ threatens to displace both people and nature. We’ve also had two meetings with the CEO of Confor, Stuart Goodall, which we hope have already led to positive action being put in motion with respect to community engagement, and maybe even cumulative impacts. Over the last year we have compiled a set of free guidelines that walk a community through how a woodland creation application consultation works and how, when, and why they can engage with developers. Scottish Forestry recently confirmed that they appreciate our initiative on this and that the minister is keen to ensure Communities for Diverse Forestry are fully engaged and consulted with respect to principles and engagement around responsible land use. We plan to roll out some FREE training sessions on forestry engagement for individuals and communities over the coming months. Please get in touch if you would be interested in attending at commsdiverseforestry@gmail.com Morag Paterson, CDF Pictured: Top - Cairnsmore of Carsphairn, newly planted; over 900 hectares of new Sitka spruce dominant plantations have been consented in Carsphairn over a one-year period. Above: Land owned by Duchrae Estates, Dalry, which is due to be planted. The community don't feel there was sufficient local engagement, and the sign reflects increasing anti-Sitka sentiment due to the dramatic rise in local plantations (photograph submitted by a Gazette reader). WHAT IS REGENERATIVE FARMING? Glenkens Gazette A quiet revolution is happening in agriculture across Scotland and the rest of the UK. Words like ‘regenerative’ and ‘agroecology’ are making their way into policy frameworks that will pave the way for new farm payments after 2024. But what do these words mean? And how can farmers learn more to get ready for the changes ahead? In a nutshell, regenerative and agroecological systems are farming with nature. Valuing biodiversity, reducing inputs and maximising soil health through changes in management from what we think of as ‘conventional’ - for example introducing holistic planned mob grazing, reducing ploughing and tillage, valuing diversity in the pasture. Regenerative systems are about supporting your underground livestock, so that they do all the hard work increasing fertility and structure! It’s economical, profitable and offers huge benefits in terms of carbon sequestration, water management and more. The Regenerative Farming Network is open to all farmers and food producers across D&G, South Ayrshire and East Ayrshire. Already at 140 members, this peer-to-peer knowledge exchange page 16 group organises farm walks, talks and film screenings to support transitions to more sustainable naturebased farming practices. You don’t have to be an expert, or even (yet) implementing regenerative practices – just have a curious and open mind and willingness to find out more. The Glenkens has a rich and diverse farming heritage. A patchwork of small family owned or long term tenanted farms sits alongside larger estates and holdings. The majority of our local farming is sheep and beef cattle. Vegetables used to be produced in fields around Dalry, and perhaps could be again; there's certainly a demand for it. Our mix of uplands and lower lying land create opportunities for different soil distribution and habitat types. Our uplands are good for grazing livestock, but also offer potential for agroforestry and increased native broadleaf tree cover, such as birches, rowans, hawthorns, willows and hazels. When done properly, this tree mix is compatible with grazing livestock, providing shelter, fodder and nutrients. The Regenerative Farming Network for South West Scotland already counts some local Glenkens farmers amongst its members. New members are always welcome, and more info can be found at www.dgsustainablefoodpartnership.org/ regenerative-farming-network and there is also a Facebook group; just search for Regenerative Farming Network South West Scotland To read more about regenerative farming check out the Groundswell website at www.groundswellag.com/principles-ofregenerative-agriculture Abi Mordin Vision for land use and land management in the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere in 2050 The Biosphere is a diverse, mixed and integrated living and working landscape. It supports a wide range of innovative low carbon and biodiversity friendly landbased activities including farming, forestry, tourism, and nature conservation. The Biosphere is recognised internationally as a region that demonstrates how sustainable development is good for people, the environment and the local economy. The Biosphere is an excellent place to live and work. Better digital and physical infrastructure, public transport and affordable low-carbon timber housing will support the local economy, making the Biosphere an attractive and pleasant home for all age groups. Employment opportunities and accessibility retain those who have grown up locally and stimulate inward migration from folk who left the region and outsiders charmed by the Biosphere's reputation as an attractive and innovative rural community. The Biosphere has a strong identity. Natural and cultural heritage sites and local traditions and culture are respected and celebrated, strengthening sense of place and inspiring local arts and culture. Pride and knowledge of natural and cultural heritage drives the Biosphere's reputation for nature-based tourism, traditional crafts and local art, and regional food which provide an important contribution to the Biosphere's economy. Land uses are integrated to provide multiple benefits and support biodiversity and carbon storage. Environmental protection upheld and conservation targets are achieved. Degraded peatland is restored, and existing forest plantations restructured to increase biodiversity and amenity value. Any additional woodland is carefully considered to maximise benefits (climate mitigation, biodiversity, jobs, timber, and recreation opportunities) and avoid negative impacts on the open landscape character and local infrastructure. Local food, timber and energy provides many local needs. Less imported food and timber reduces carbon emissions from transport and support local employment. A local circular economy maximises value and environmental standards and minimises waste. Energy needs are met with local community and household renewable energy generation. Mixed ‘productive’ woodlands provide quality timber, including native hard woods that support local industries. This vision was developed in a participatory process of two workshops and a web-based survey with a diverse group of stakeholders in the Biosphere as part of the EIT Climate KIC funded FORLAND R project.. For further information contact marc.metzger@ed.ac.uk illustrations by Cooperation, collaboration and consensus help achieve integrated land use. Regional partnerships identify priorities and help translate national priorities into what is needed and suitable for the Biosphere. Where there are competing land use demands, changes are properly guided, scrutinised, assessed and justified to ensure that the future outcome is greater than before. Regulations, incentives and support are aligned to favour mixed and integrated land use that provides multiple social, environmental and economic benefits. Forest Research Farming in a Changing Landscape Glenkens Gazette page 17 by Patrick Laurie The speed of land use change in Galloway is extraordinary. In what seems like no time at all, extensive areas of traditional hill farming country have gone to commercial forestry, and given the time delay between approval and delivery of new forest projects, it’s hard to grasp the enormity of what’s coming next. When I travel to other parts of the UK for work, it’s hard to convey a sense of these dramatic changes to people who have not seen it with their own eyes. In the same way, when visitors come here to see what’s happening, many are staggered by the transformation currently unfolding in the hills. In 2010, it wasn’t unusual for hill grazing in Galloway to be bought and sold at around £850 per acre, but in recent months the same acre of land might cost seven or eight thousand pounds. Major commercial investors are battling to buy our land, and as we approach a period of uncertainty for hill farming, it’s easy to see why many farmers are taking the opportunity to sell up and get out. The average age of a farmer in Scotland is 57, and it’s fair to say that many Galloway farmers are treating the sale of their land as an unexpectedly generous windfall in advance of their retirement. That makes sense, and it’s hard to blame people for selling now. But it also means that it’s almost impossible for younger farmers to get a foot on the ladder. Land is hard to get hold of at the best of times, but when so much of it suddenly vanishes Patrick Laurie with one of his Galloways, photograph by Polly Pullar. into forestry, it’s like the future is being switched off. In many ways I blame the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) for this mess. Several decades of supportive subsidy drove farmers to follow a single thread of income through sheep, even as those animals became less financially viable. There’s no doubt that sheep are part of the answer for hill farming systems, but it’s never sensible to place all your eggs in a single basket. Leaving the CAP, it’s no wonder that some farmers are feeling panicked – they’ve been driven into a specialised business that seems horribly uncertain, but while sheep farming as we know it today seems like an ancient practice, it’s actually quite a recent creation. Even fifty years ago, parts of most hill farms were cropped for cereals and root crops and many had pigs or cattle of some kind. The uplands used to offer a far more diverse mixture of revenue streams, but these have steadily eroded down to one. The traditional model was more diverse, but there is an even wider range of options for modern hill farming. Hill farmers can run their sheep and cows alongside renewable energy, sustainable timber production and tourism. We’re working towards a system that will pay for hill farms to store carbon in peat, and it’s likely that future subsidies will provide proper support to protect and conserve our fantastic upland biodiversity. We have the potential to build a really bright, diverse and exciting future for hill farming in Galloway which will dramatically boost local communities. It’s an exciting place to work, but as land continues to sell at exclusive prices to pension companies and green investors from across the world, it’s getting harder to see how we’ll ever be able to realise the true potential of our hills. Land Use in the Biosphere What is a The underlying ethos of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere is sustainability. For the Biosphere sustainability is about “Thinking Global, Acting Local” it’s about dealing with the needs of the local environment, the local economy and our local society in a balanced and even-handed way. We extend this to our approach on land use too. We believe the Biosphere can support an environment that is good for production of food and fibre, that can help alleviate the impacts of climate change, can enhance and celebrate our rich natural and cultural heritage, can provide new employment opportunities and a place for the health and wellbeing of local people and visitors to the region. For us that landscape is a mosaic of integrated land uses, where people work together to shape a future that doesn’t just benefit us here and now but will also ensure that future generations will be able to meet their own needs. Ed Forrest, G&SE Biosphere Director • The Galloway & Southern Ayrshire (G&SA) Biosphere have created a Sense of Place Toolkit, which is available on their website for anyone to use. This may be helpful for communities to help focus on what areas are valued by members of the community, and to help people identify what’s special about their area. To find out more visit www. gsabiosphere.org.uk and search under ‘Business in the Biosphere’ and then ‘Business Resources’. Woodlot? A woodlot allows local people to rent and manage an area of woodland from a landowner on a longterm basis. The Scottish Woodlot Association encourages woodlots in Scotland using a similar model to how woodlots are run in Canada, where this has been common practice for decades. To find out more you can visit the Scottish Woodlot Association on Facebook or Twitter @ ScottishWoodlotAssociation TREES, CARBON OFFSETTING Glenkens Gazette page 18 It would seem whether fighting in the name of the fatherland, the motherland or the homeland, that one word - land - has probably been at the back of every conflict since mankind could wield a club. Land is a dear and precious thing and people everywhere instinctively see keeping control of their territory as key to their survival. Well, everywhere, it seems, except Scotland. The blue and yellow flag Ukrainians proudly fight under is said to depict their farmed heritage and its landscape, and I read recently that the Ukrainian people have a great affinity for the soil and land, much of which comes from memories of the Holodomor, a famine that killed 3.5 million Ukrainians in the 1930s. This was a man-made famine which occurred within the breadbasket of Europe and was caused by the political doctrines of far off city-bound politicians who thought they knew best about how farming should be organised. One of the most disturbing stories I've heard with regard to the effect of propoganda and media influence recalls relatives in Russia refusing to believe family members in Ukraine as to the extent of Putin’s 'special operation'. I imagine, though, that these people are not 'bad' people - just ones who choose to believe the official narrative. Facts are paramount, but even in our world where free speech is taken for granted, facts sometimes get buried in mountains of information or are simply ignored by popular narratives, reinforced again and again in a media that instinctively knows it is good business to tell consumers what they want to hear. I would contend “tree planting is good for the environment” is one such popular narrative that few in the media or corridors of power seem able to see past. Even bodies that should know better, like the National Farmers Union, fall into the trap of talk of “integrating farming and forestry”. Those concerned about the amount of land being lost to forestry in places like Galloway must stop talking of integration; and stop using the language of compromise. As a representative of RSPB put it so well, “all the forest industry wants is just a little bit more land, and after that, all they will want is just another little bit more land” and so on. They just keep chewing away at Scotland to try to satisfy the insatiable demand of their clientele, or the new breed of corporate investor trying to offset their businesses’ responsibilities (and guilt) for the harm they have done - and continue to do - to the planet. It doesn’t matter if it is one of the few larger areas of open farmland so crucial for conserving hard-pressed ground nesting birds like the curlew - the (probably a more useful assessment of timber requirements) Scotland actually produces double the timber of the European average on this per capita basis - all in a country where more than half the land area is totally unsuitable for forestry. Furthermore, according to the National Forest Inventory, Scotland timber production is set to soar to 12 million metres cubed by 2030. So in just eight years time Scotland will be producing around three times more timber than the European average on this per capita basis. To add context, further consider that Europe (the UK included) is a net timber exporter (30 million metres cubed surplus) produced from a vast and growing timber resource felled at a very sustainable 73% of annual incremental forest growth. Further, Europe currently burns 112 million metres cubed of roundwood, and could burn more, such is its abundance. In addition to this, Europe burns tens of millions of tonnes of waste wood, all of which could be recycled into useful products like particleboard, but using this type of wood efficiently is simply not needed, such is the abundance of virgin timber. All this is set in a world where roughly half of all timber produced annually is burned, the burning of which constituting around 4-5% of all anthropogenic warming (Jacobsen 2010) in soot effects alone. Note that this still excludes the global warming effect of all the emissions of CO2, methane and nitrous oxide also emitted at combustion. As we’ve established, facts are paramount, so for those believing the idea that planting trees is a valid climate mitigation strategy, please consider the following: There have been very few actual measurements of soil carbon changes following afforestation of organo-mineral soils (shallow peat) in the UK uplands (Reynolds 2007). However, one such study by Edinburgh University researchers of a Sitka spruce forest at the Forestry Commission’s (FC) study site at Harwood Forest in Northumberland (on soils very similar to much of the Glenkens) recorded a massive 134 tonnes per hectare loss over the first 40 year rotation, which is a similar amount to the carbon accumulated in the trees. “The current climate change mitigation strategy is built around tree planting that will see the destruction of farmland and...the loss of habitats, flora, fauna and people, all to be replaced by foreign-owned carbon-offset Sitka forests that don’t actually offset carbon or slow global warming at all, but actually contribute to it.” supposed “panda of UK conservation” – or land backing directly onto the thousands of acres of the Galloway Forest Park; it just all gets ‘integrated’, ie covered in Sitka spruce. Planting under current legislation is a one-way street whereby when land gets planted, it cannot come back out of trees for the foreseeable future. Environmental bodies like NatureScot and SEPA have been gagged and neutered by concordant agreements with Scottish Forestry that they have been forced to accept by an urban-bound government that ‘knows best’. And what does it know best? That at around 18%, Scotland’s forest cover is lower than the European average, and to them this lack of ‘being average’ is something that must be corrected by state doctrine. Scotland has a land area of 7.8 million hectares and a population of five million and, despite much of the country being unsuitable for forestry, Scotland still produces around 8.5 million metres cubed of timber annually. By comparison, Europe as a whole has a land area of 620 million hectares (excluding Russia), has a population of 627 million and produces 542.5 million metres cubed of timber (State of Europe’s Forest Report 2020). If you do the maths, Scotland by land area currently produces 25% above the European average, and by population AND THE LOSS OF OUR LAND Glenkens Gazette This soil carbon loss throughout the rotation was then followed by a further additional large soil carbon loss at clearfell which was followed by a slow soil carbon recovery through the second rotation, reaching a balance 80 years after initial planting (Zerva and Mencuccini 2005). Other studies, also at the FC Harwood Forest site, have shown additional significant nitrous oxide warming emissions equivalent to 10% of the cooling effect of the growing trees (Ball et al 2003). In a very similar study, Benanti et al (2014) found the net effect of the land use change from wet grassland to Sitka spruce forest also reduced the assumed CO2 global warming amelioration capacity by 10% through the release of nitrous oxide. This loss of soil carbon during the first Sitka rotation, followed by a gradual recovery during second rotation as recorded by Zerva and Mencuccini, is backed up by the Forest Research Study Venguelova (2018), and this loss and slow recovery in the second rotation appears to be the Forest Research official line on this point. However, given Scottish Government’s commitment to a ‘net zero’ date of 2045, the 50–60 years or so that this 134 tonnes soil carbon per hectare is lost to the atmosphere (and the global warming feedback effects it brings) needs to be carefully considered, in addition to several other global warming effects from afforestation such as the change in surface albedo (or reflectivity) that’s caused by the change in land cover from open ground to conifer forest. In the briefing note, Morison (2019), written by James Morison, head of UK Forest Research (and a ‘go to’ advisor to the UK’s Climate Change Committee), the albedo effect is described as a “substantial component of the net climate change effect of afforestation” and the range of “25 to 45%” is offered as “the likely reduction in the cooling effect by the carbon stored in the trees by the warming effects of the albedo change caused by tree planting in the UK”. Therefore, even at its lowest value, this warming effect is the equivalent of the release into the atmosphere of 37.5 tonnes of carbon per hectare in a typical Sitka forest situation. Adding these afforestation warming page 19 effects of soil carbon loss, forest nitrous oxide emissions and albedo change effects together comes to an equivalent warming effect of over 180 tonnes of carbon per hectare by the year 2062 for a forest planted today. Set this against 150 tonnes of carbon per hectare stored in the trees over the same time frame – though this carbon may also eventually be be released back into the atmosphere after harvesting by burning these trees as biomass fuel – in a Europe which currently has hundreds of millions of cubic metres of timber surpluses to our requirements, what else are we going to use it for? It should be noted all these figures come from either Forest Research/Forestry Commission or from research conducted at their study sites; if their research is correct, the planting of more forests in the Glenkens will in actual scientific fact impede, not help, Scotland reach its 2045 net zero target. It may be hard to believe the figures could get any worse, but if trees from these local forests are burned as biomass - or it displaces trees elsewhere from their market that are then burned as biomass - the energy debt to transport, dry and process this wood for burning as a fuel is estimated by the Food and Agriculture Organisation and others to be around 25% of the total energy value. So even if biomass fuel is used instead of fossil fuel in this process, this means for every three hectares burned as biomass an additional hectare (with all its inherent 180 tonnes of carbon cost/debt) needs to be grown just to ‘fuel’ the whole process, meaning the potential effect isn’t of 180 tonnes of carbon being released by 2061 but the equivalent of 240 tonnes of carbon being released into the atmosphere for every hectare of biomass fuel delivered to the burner (which when burned loads another 130 tonnes or so of carbon per hectare into the atmosphere), ie 370 tonnes carbon from every hectare of Sitka harvested from the Glenkens come 2062. Or convert that 370 tonnes carbon into CO2 equivalents - a release of 1,356 tonnes CO2 per hectare. This is what is actually happening according to the forest sector’s own research. All this and, say, a long haul airline perhaps based in Australia boasting it is helping the environment in its purchase of carbon credits in Scotland (I’m told this is actually the case for land near Dumfries) while it continues to blast aviation fuel into the upper atmosphere on a daily basis. However, in reality, their supposed offset forest in Scotland is actually pumping another 1,356 tonnes CO2 per hectare into the atmosphere over its first 40-year rotation. The current climate change mitigation strategy is built around tree planting that will see the destruction of farmland and upland bird habitats that’s already well under way (eg 5,000 breeding curlew pairs and many, many more lost from Galloway and Border hills alone - RSPB). It is a ‘strategy’ that will not only oversee rural depopulation and the end of a farming tradition and occupancy of the land that stretches back five or six thousands years, but will ‘help’ cause local extinction of birds such as curlews, plovers, skylarks and black grouse. It is a strategy for the loss of habitats, flora, fauna and people, all to be replaced by foreign-owned carbonoffset Sitka forests that don’t actually offset carbon or slow global warming at all, but actually contribute to it. Finally, almost everyone I speak to seems to think to go against the popular narrative around tree planting - to go against Scotgov doctrines and to turn around its forestry bandwagon - is a nigh on an impossible task. However, if the current system is to be halted or even slowed down then the facts must be heard - and the Glenkens Gazette seems as good a place as any to start this much needed process! James Ramsay Pictured is James with his sheep up on the hill with plantation forestry and wind turbines in the background. WOODLAND CROFTS AND FAMILY FORESTRY Glenkens Gazette Some years ago, I attended an interesting forestry workshop at which a local forester outlined the history of a particular woodland. page 20 intensity of management than a more remote forester? The answer lies in multiple benefits - to the crofter. The crofter derives not just a degree of income from his woodland, but it is also for him a place to live, grow food and fuel, and carry out other business activities. Not all of his work in the woods needs to be remunerated directly. Enhanced knowledge of the woodland However, he then went on to confess built up through time on site allows an - if that is the right word - that he had attention to detail which maximises the only managed to visit the wood once opportunity to add value. Integrated with in the previous 18 months. Many in silviculture, other uses of the woodland the audience were slightly taken such as grazing or tourism aback by this, but to me it was not activities, add economic value a surprise. You only have to ‘do the to the woodland beyond simply maths’ to realise that this is the its production of fibre. And the current reality: fewer foresters than intimate knowledge of the forest in the past, with ever more things to held by the working woodland do, trying to cover ever larger areas crofter, and his frequency on of country. site, enable management for Many would not see this as biodiversity of the highest level. an issue, but rather evidence By making woodland of enhanced efficiency. With management a part of people’s improved information technology lives, rather than a waged - computer-based mapping and subactivity only, we allow more compartment databases, brought to be done for less money, together in sophisticated GIS whether that is provided systems - the ‘forester’s footprints’ through timber income or grant are perhaps less critical to forest support. You might call that management now than they once Ros and Rab Nash, woodland crofters at Cogle Wood ‘sweat silviculture’- analogous were. Croft, Caithness ©WoodlandTrust/JohnMacPherson. to the ‘sweat equity’ invested by Many would agree, however (not self-builders in their homes. least foresters themselves), that If family forestry characterised it would be desirable to be able Though published several years ago, by woodland crofts – and other to spend more time in the woods, the steering group report still remains emerging models such as woodlots - is enhancing their local knowledge, which one of the best-argued cases for unquestionably a good thing, then we would improve management, leading woodland crofts we have. Its strength surely need much more of it. In practice, to better benefits being delivered. But lies in its hard-headed focus on public a significant expansion of family forestry until someone finds a way to increase benefits: woodland crofts are worth in Scotland would only require a small management input without adding to having, because they can deliver fraction of existing woodland - a fraction costs, is this just wishful thinking? more. These potential benefits were which will be more than offset by the Maybe we are approaching the issue grouped under the usual economic, planned increase in woodland area under in the wrong way. Arguably, a model environmental and social headings. One Scottish Government targets. And one already exists where high levels of in particular is worth quoting here in area where woodland area is rapidly management input can be sustained respect of my earlier remarks. Woodland increasing is the south of Scotland – but without incurring crippling costs. We crofts, the report considered, had the there’s a problem here. may not be all that familiar with it yet potential to: “Derive economic benefits It is at present only legally possible to in Scotland, on account of the way our from local intensive management of create new crofts (including woodland forest industry has developed in the areas of forest that may be difficult to crofts) in the Highlands and Islands. past, but it is common the world over, achieve with remote management on an However, Scottish Ministers have the where it is better known as ‘family extensive basis”. power to designate new areas for croft forestry’. Various definitions for this can Though economic benefits were creation and have used this power in be found but the one I like particularly is, highlighted in that statement, the past, though currently there is no “small scale forestry, based on personal environmental and social ones could policy to do so again. The legislation involvement and strong stewardship just as easily have been included too, involved is very simple, so this ultimately values”. as highlighted elsewhere in the report. comes down to a question of politics - so In considering how family forestry can The key point is the recognition that if you think woodland crofts would be deliver more for less, it is worth looking local intensive management can bring a welcome diversification to the local closer at one model of family forestry additional benefits, which may be forestry scene, you’ll need to give your that we do have, which now enjoys the difficult to achieve under conventional MSP a call… support of the Scottish Government management models. woodland crofts. Jamie McIntyre Why, then, might a resident woodland This support was the culmination crofter be able to justify a greater For further information visit www. of many years of discussion and woodlandcrofts.org patient promotion of the concept by its proponents, and followed a comprehensive ‘official’ examination of the issues. The study was delivered by a steering group tasked by the Scottish Government with examining “whether, and how, national forest estate (NFE) land might be used to create new crofts under crofting legislation”. Though the given focus was the NFE, the report actually addressed the general principles involved and as such its conclusions regarding the benefits of woodland crofts could be applied much more widely. WHO SHOULD DECIDE ON LOCAL LAND USE? Glenkens Gazette The current approach to land use in rural Scotland is unbelievably outdated. It is centralised in government departments and agencies. It is fragmented to suit different purposes that are all too often in conflict with each other. It fails to link all of the government’s environmental, climate change, economic and community benefit targets. And the consultations of local interests are often a sham, with decisions imposed inspite of our representations. Oh dear, it has to be better than this! What is needed? First, leave the decisions to informed local communities, including local farmers and managers of land, to deliver outcomes which will benefit local natural environments, local landscape and amenity, and of course local communities. We have the ingredients for making decisions better than remote interests with no 'on the ground' knowledge. We have a perfectly good national framework - the Land Use Strategy. And this is encouraging the development of Regional Land Use Strategies. We have a world class ethical basis for looking after the land and how each interest group has both rights and responsibilities in taking this forward - the Statement of Land Rights and Responsibilities approved by the Scottish Parliament. Its roll out is being led by the Scottish Land Commission. We have the challenge of delivering a new basis for supporting food production following Brexit, and the promise of a new incentive scheme in 2024. We have also the promise of new environmental legislation on the same timescale. Locally, we are well advanced. We have an excellent local framework - the Glenkens and District Community Action Plan with staff employed to facilitate its achievement. We have an excellent enabling mechanism - the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership, which has already led local discussions on land use. We have local understanding of the global and national imperatives for use of the land; there is nothing to stop us deciding for our ourselves. Of course, we need to be sure that the newly elected local councillors and our Holyrood representatives are fully supportive of our efforts. And we do need the support of the national 'powers that be' in future-proofing decisions and actions to favour a mutually supportive contribution to providing local social and economic benefits, redressing climate change, improving biodiversity and landscape amenity. What do we want to achieve? That is page 21 Surely we want more of this (above) and not more of this (below)... not for me to prescribe. However, I am sure there are ingredients shared by the majority of local interests. For example, farming which produces wholesome food for local, as well as wider, consumption on land that provides jobs for future generations, provides shelter for animals through tree planting, that sequesters carbon and improves soil structure, soil biodiversity and the look of the landscape. Roger Crofts Wind Farms and the Glenkens Are you aware of what is happening in the Glenkens? Before long, every hilltop between Dalmellington in the northwest, Sanquhar in the northeast and Parton in the south will be covered with giant wind turbines. The approach of the Scottish government to planning permission for onshore wind farms in the area is relentless. Even on those occasions when the Dumfries & Galloway Council has the resources to address developers’ applications, the government rides roughshod over them. Although almost everyone would agree that it is crucial to cut carbon emissions and to strive one way or another for net zero, a balance has to be struck between that and other interests, such as tourism on which the fragile economy of Dumfries & Galloway depends. Our landscape and environment are important to all of us. Dumfries & Galloway has already done far more than its fair share towards green energy, indeed to such an extent that it is a massive exporter of power from the region, largely to England where demand is greatest. By contrast, onshore wind farm development in England depends on the consent of the local communities affected: consent which is almost never forthcoming. There is no need for this headlong rush to cover the hills with wind farms. Even now the grid lacks the capacity to transmit all of the power produced by those which are operational, let alone those which are planned, and ends up having to make huge constraint payments to the wind farm operators. Moreover, back-up is required for times when the wind does not blow; with the government currently setting its face against fossil fuels and conventional nuclear power, some alternative is still needed. Before onshore development proceeds further, there needs to be a comprehensive investigation of the relative merits of other sources of green energy, particularly offshore wind and small nuclear reactors (SMRs – classified as green by the EU), and of the damage which onshore wind farms do to our livelihoods, particularly to tourism. The problem is that once built, an onshore wind farm will almost certainly never be dismantled: the damage is irreversible. In the meantime, it is essential that the voice of local communities in the areas affected is heard. If you want your voice to be heard, contact Save Our Hills Dumfries & Galloway through at www. saveourhillsdumfriesandgalloway.co.uk or find us on Facebook. Iain Milligan, Chairman, Save Our Hills Dumfries & Galloway COULD NATIONAL PARKS PLAY A ROLE IN LAND USE CHANGE? Glenkens Gazette page 22 The land use of the Glenkens and wider Galloway is undergoing change at a pace and scale that has not been seen since the creation of the Forest Park. is no presumption that in the event of conflict the first aim will take precedence. You can view the full wording of the purposes at www. gallowaynationalpark.org Like much legislation, the National Parks (2000) Act makes no specific reference to climate change or the biodiversity Many of these pressures for change crisis, though this may be are national with ‘nature recovery’ and considered in the current ‘climate change’ as the headlines, but review of the national with many more acting locally and in planning framework. some cases dramatically. The Act already allows National parks in Scotland were only considerable scope to include them and enacted in 2000, with the first two intentionally provides the flexibility to being created soon after (Loch Lomond tailor the national park to more closely & Trossachs and Cairngorms). Scottish reflect local circumstances, aided by a national park legislation differs from management board where local elected that south of the border. It shares the representation is in the majority. aims of ‘conserving and enhancing National Parks influence land use in the natural and cultural heritage’ their area in one of four broad ways: and ‘promoting understanding and 1) Through the production of a National enjoyment of the special qualities’ but Park Plan. adds two further aims - ‘sustainable 2) Through encouraging and assisting use of the natural resources of the area’ land managers to deliver the vision set and ‘promote sustainable economic out in the Plan and directing them to and social development of the area’s possible funding incentives for this. communities’. Uniquely in Scotland there 3) As the planning authority it can control inappropriate development. 4) Through a Ranger service which helps manage access and visitor conflicts. National Parks don’t have a different planning system to the rest of the country but My name is Kavita Sharma. I am a PhD student at ETH are using the same Zürich, researching tree planting in Scotland. You can help system to deliver me with my research by letting me know your thoughts the more targeted and views on forestry developments in the Glenkens. vision agreed in the Please send me an email on kavita.sharma@usys.ethz.ch, National Parks Plan. call or message over WhatsApp, or send an SMS to 0041 1788 616 140. Share Your Views What do you think of forestry development in the Glenkens? Both positive and negative views are welcome, including what landscape changes mean for you, ideas for improving consultation or anything else you consider important. All comments would be held confidentially, and all responses will be anonymized if used in reports or papers. Once my research is completed, I will submit a summary of the findings for publication in a future edition of the Glenkens Gazette. The ‘carrot and stick’ approach above is not designed to produce ‘a one size fits all’ solution. It is more effective in practice than it appears on paper, in part because a significant amount of rural land use is influenced by various forms of government incentives. It provides more and new alternatives to land managers on what they might do with the land where these options deliver the aims of the National Park. The ‘Cairngorms Connect’ and ‘Great Trossachs Forest’ projects are examples of this being carried out at a landscape scale through collaboration with many land managers in a way not seen outside National Parks. Perhaps the biggest, though possibly least tangible, influence that a National Park can have is the certainty of the future vision for the area. Many rural land use changes are long-term and the rewards gradual. Over the last 70 years, new National Parks have been created in the UK and existing ones extended but none has ever been disbanded. A National Park won’t solve all of Galloway’s challenges but, done well, it can make a really positive contribution to a vibrant and sustainable future for the area. Rob Lucas Pictured is farmer Robert McTurk with Carsfad Loch and Glenkens hills in the background. In other parts of the British Isles, communities are responding in a variety of ways to the rapid rise in afforestation. A couple of examples are the Save Leitrim campaign in Ireland, the inception of which is explained on their Facebook page as being "founded by a group of like minded people... to fight for the survival of our rural communities which are being decimated by the relentless subsidised afforestation programme". Another campaign which gained a lot of media attention was a 17,000 strong petition requesting changes to a scheme at Frongoch Farm in Cwrt-y-Cadno, Wales, where a Londonbased firm had bought four farms in the area with the intention of planting them as a carbon offset for their clients. How Could Mining Impact Us? Glenkens Gazette An Australian mining company's prospecting has raised concerns of toxic pollution, radioactive release, ecological damage and the destruction of historically and culturally important sites and protected habitats in the Glenkens. Walkabout Resources/JDH Exploration have secured Crown licences from the Scottish Government to prospect for minerals within three areas of Galloway centred around Newton Stewart, Gatehouse of Fleet and New Galloway. Walkabout has been drilling 200 metres down through the water table into galenarich rock looking for gold and silver, as well as minerals associated with renewable technologies. Galloway has a history of mining across the region, being rich in copper, lead (galena, wolfanite, etc), silver, gold, zinc, arsenic and other rare earth metals. However, metal sulphide mining is notoriously difficult and comes with significant unavoidable environmental impacts and risks to health from minerals which are toxic and cumulative in the body. Water courses are particularly vulnerable page 23 to pollution of drinking water supplies, rivers and marine areas. Thousands of tonnes of earth and rock would need to be blasted, removed and processed; again, often with hazardous processing to remove the mineral from the ore, eg mercury amalgamation. There is a very real risk of radioactive release of uranium, thorium and strontium as the rock in Galloway is exceptionally heavily metamorphosed and extremely hard, and therefore blocks short wave microwave signals, trapping radioactive molecules within the rock structure. Walkabout/JDH have focused on old mine sites and spoil heaps, surveying areas around Glentrool, Talnotry, Blackcraig and Pibble Hill. They have conducted drilling at Blackcraig/Palnure over the past year and have recently begun to survey in the Glenkens. Walkabout have to date not conducted themselves well in terms of community engagement. They have been in Galloway since 2018, and only late last year did it become wider public knowledge due to a local resident in Blackcraig publicising the fact. In the current climate, there needs to be stronger policy for sustaining intrinsic geological substructures and the biodiversity of ecosystems of rocks, rivers, marine life and water courses, and although not required, the company have chosen not to adopt the Scottish model for community consultation. Mine sites are difficult and challenging for local communities on a social, environmental and financial level. If there is to be mining in Galloway, there needs to be an open dialogue between all parties - national government, local government, business interests and communities. Mining is paradoxical as there is a need for minerals in various capacities to facilitate the transition to zero carbon, and for many consumer goods. The war in the Democratic Republic of Congo, that has lasted for 20 years and claimed five million lives, has been driven by mining for the minerals which run our mobile phones, electronics and cars. Is it right that we, in Scotland, continue to offload our responsibilities; out of sight out of mind? Or do we look at alternatives where mining isn’t needed, instead 'mining' waste consumer electronics or furthering developments in zinc or sodium ion or carbon batteries, etc. Mining in Galloway needs to be very carefully considered in social, economic, cultural, historical and environmental terms. The Galloway Mines Action Group has been established to ensure that these discussions take place at the highest level, that proper evidence-based research informs the decision making, and that Galloway is protected from irresponsible mining. Chris Helson, Galloway Mines Action Group The Galloway Mines Action Group can be found on Facebook, as well as another local group called Galloway Against Mining. Pictured is a map of areas with Crown prospecting licences © JDH Exploration this can be viewed at www.jdhscotland.com Perspective from a Forester Glenkens Gazette We asked Tom Clark, Forest Manager for Czernin-Kinsky, a Dalrybased commercial forestry company, to give us an insight into current changes to the forest sector. With regard to the way Government targets on planting are being rolled out, what are your thoughts on how this is being progressed? Government targets for tree planting and forest expansion are ambitious and perhaps unsurprisingly, as a professional forester, I would broadly support the mission to increase forest cover. The annual targets have been met for the last few years now, so on that basis alone, the conclusion must be that forest expansion is on target. However, I appreciate that the devil is in the detail and there can be more to it than simply the number of acres planted. Is this sustainable, in terms of land use balance? Scotland definitely has room for more forest. However, we must be extremely careful that this forest expansion takes place only in areas of least value to the agricultural sector and the communities it supports. The recent spike in land values, which is largely being driven by the demand from corporate and institutional interests to offset their carbon emissions, is leading to better and better farms being identified for woodland expansion as the price per acre becomes comparable to that of the poorer quality land. In my view, this situation which is being turbocharged by Scottish Government incentives and indirect funding via the National Investment Bank, is as naïve as it is unsustainable and is leading to a page 24 rapid and irreversible change in rural demographics, concentration of land ownership into fewer hands, and raises justifiable concerns surrounding food security and agricultural critical mass. Should communities have more say and if so, how? Communities currently have a mechanism to influence, consult with, or oppose new woodland creation schemes via Scottish Forestry’s (SF) public consultation process. This system I believe works reasonably well, however given the number of schemes now on the system, some community councils are finding it difficult to fully assess each proposal within the 28 day timescale. Perhaps a longer consultation period would be of benefit to allow communities enough time to fully weigh up each proposal would be of benefit. I also see no harm in visitors to the SF website being able to access outline woodland designs, scoping maps, etc which are currently only available on request. Foresters also need to improve their engagement with communities gone are the days of sticking a scheme into the system and hiding behind the state regulator. We need to be known, approachable, able to communicate our aims effectively, and willing to make some compromises where appropriate, something that I concede the industry has failed on in the past. Put simply, we need to be part of the community. As an established forestry manager in the area, how do you see new planting schemes in terms of the future of the area - can you see how things could potentially be done better/differently? New planting schemes will continue to come on stream in the coming years. The increasing age demographic of hill farmers coupled with decreasing relative returns from farming and increasing returns from timber long-term will likely see that trend continue. In Galloway we have the combination of a perfect Valuing Our Peatlands For some, peatlands may not seem the most attractive of places. However, at the Crichton Carbon Centre we’re passionate about these 'squadgy' landscapes, the life they support, and the climate benefits they provide. Over the next 18 months, the Peatland Connections project will be raising awareness of the importance of these landscapes through integrating science with art and creative engagement approaches to connect and re-connect us to our Galloway peatlands. Over the course of the project we will be commissioning artists, co-delivering a series of citizen science projects focusing on water quality and peatland climate, nearby industrial processing facilities, a skilled labour resource and suitable land for planting which makes it a very attractive proposition for commercial forestry. In my ideal world, I’d like to see existing landowners consider planting some trees as part of their farm or estate businesses, a scaled grant system favouring smaller landowners would help this. This would help build the link between forestry and farming as well as keeping a working population near the forests and engaged with them, as opposed to being owned, managed and profited from remotely. The company I represent owns around 12,000 acres of mostly commercial forestry in the Glenkens. This directly supports six well paid, permanent jobs as well as approximately seven full-time equivalent contract jobs in a remote rural area. We all live locally, many of us putting kids through schools and spending money in the local economy. We have run a successful apprenticeship scheme in the past and will soon be advertising for a six-month internship programme in association with the Galloway Glens Partnership. It is in our interest to hire locally and reinvest as much locally as possible. I would like to think this is a good example of how forestry can be of real tangible benefit to rural areas. ecosystems, organising walks and talks with a variety of experts, and co-developing a decision making tool. The overall aim is to reconnect local rural communities, scientists, land managers and policy makers to land use decision making in order to realise a more sustainable and climate resilient future. To find out more visit www. peatlandconnections.com/blog and https://www.carboncentre. org/blog Kerry Morrison, Peatland Connections Project Officer Navigating Land Use Changes from a Small Business Perspective Glenkens Gazette When I came to live in the beautiful Glenkens, six years ago, I was quite unprepared for the speed and scale of local land use change, and the affect this would have on my ability to set up in business. Despite being self-employed for 40 years I had never before felt the need to inspect planning applications, let alone participate in a public planning inquiry. My dive into the public planning system was a fascinating journey, albeit a time-consuming one. Setting up a new business requires a great deal of planning but it is unusual for a micro land based start-up to also have to become a registered lobbyist. The sheer scale of land use change in the Upper Glenkens is extremely challenging, compounded by the tag-along politics. We chose our property for its potential to contribute page 25 to the local community as a rural economic hub; as a place that has the capacity to accommodate many types of enterprise. With a peaceful natural beauty, proximity to the Southern Upland Way and availability of additional rental grazing for our 30 Highland cows, the business model was very clear. Within days of moving in it became apparent that all was not well, and that massive land use changes had been wreaking havoc on the community for decades. Pasture for grazing was in short supply, usurped by forestry operations. To make matters worse the plantations had become havens for all manner of agricultural predator. Within two months we discovered all the local beauty spots and great trails were to be filled with wind turbines and within 18 months we were told that our additional grazing ground was to be sold for plantation. Our original business model was crushed. Six years on, we are now working on our seventh land-based business model, and one which will hopefully be immune to what is going on around us. Each of our previous business ventures had been viable but each relied heavily on honest political exchange to mitigate the effects of very dominant government policy. Net zero, carbon credits, Brexit, Covid-19 and the sequestration of the public road network to serve the sole needs of government partners have been the reasons for the collapse of viable business models. The demise of the Upper Glenkens' economic vitality is not for the want of effort from those who live there. This area has more potential to grow as a strong remote rural economy than anywhere else in Scotland. The decline is a measure of the government’s obsession with big politics, global agendas and handouts to economic elites. Gardeners who set aside areas for large ornamental bushes are not concerned with the natural and organic regeneration of micro species. Rather they enjoy the fact that the stronger plants act as a kind of weedkiller. Once the government has done its thing and planted its garden, I sincerely hope there will be a little space left for us. Fiona Clubb, Carsphairn the people and natural habitats of the area. Irrespective of whether we are for or against the proposals, once they are being built, we need to make sure every opportunity is taken to get maximum local return and benefit. to host footpaths and other amenities. Upper Urr Environment Trust There is more development proposed in the Upper Urr catchment in the next ten years than was undertaken in the last 50. From windfarms to forestry, whether we like it or not, the area is going to be changing - both in terms of landscape character and use, but also the simple cash investment that will be made into the area. Land prices continue to skyrocket with all but the most wealthy or investment funds prevented from purchasing property when it comes to market. The role of the Community Council is clear; to represent local views and opinions on these developments. However, once the developments are consented - what then? There is a role for a local organisation to make sure that anything being built or impacting our landscape delivers the most local benefit to The Upper Urr Environment Trust (UUET) has been set up to fulfill this role. Initial activities have included: • Dialogue and agreement with a proposed forestry development which will include a dedicated piece of community managed space, a site able • The Trust has also secured funding from the Corsock & KPD Community Council Blackcraig Microgrant scheme to purchase river temperature monitors to monitoring changes and areas of risk for the river ecosystem • Exploring the potential for riparian native tree planting in the catchment to combat the effects of climate change • Upper Barr Farm near Corsock came up for sale and UUET lodged an interest with the agent. Ultimately it was sold to an unknown buyer but the Trust remains alive to the opportunity of land purchase. • UUET has registered as a SCIO (SC051592) If you would like to get involved email uuet.scotland@ protonmail.com Founding Trustees of UUET Pictured: The current view from Glaisters woods looking over at Blackcraig ridge and windfarm - but what landscape will our children be looking at in years to come? A Farmer's Take on Rewilding Glenkens Gazette The concept of rewilding seems to be everywhere. With its potential to address the twin crises of global warming and biodiversity loss, that’s understandable. And who wouldn’t be excited by what’s now happening - for example, on the Threave Estate? But is that re-wilding (they graze cattle)? What exactly is re-wilding anyway, and how would it affect our present agriculture-dominated landscape, especially here in the Glenkens? I have a small (75 acre) livestock farm near Crossmichael with sheep and Galloway cattle. We are organic. We have planted hedges and 12 acres of trees (native broadleaves), and made ponds. We have hay meadows full of yellow rattle (it parasitises grass, so encouraging a greater diversity of plant species). I’m a member of several conservation organisations as well as the Nature Friendly Farming Network and the Regenerative Farming Network for South West Scotland. I have read and learned from Isabella Tree, George Monbiot and other re-wilders. Why, then, do I feel ambivalent about the idea of rewilding? If rewilding means withdrawing from chunks of land and turning them over to ‘nature’, this sits within a deeply embedded way of thinking that assumes a dichotomy between ‘man’ and ‘the natural world’. According to the biblical account, God gave us ‘dominion’ over the rest of creation. Although this binary structure has since mutated through a variety of shapes at the hands of Renaissance, Enlightenment and Romantic thinkers, the basic framework remains: human beings (Society, Culture, Reason) on one side; nature (whether resource, wilderness, solace or inspiration) on the other. (I’m over-simplifying – and probably being Eurocentric as well; but for better or worse, something like this model now drives the entire world system.) But since Darwin, we have known that human beings are not separate from the rest of life but an intrinsic part of the evolutionary process. The discoveries of genetics make clear that we share most of our DNA with other species (including insects and plants). And we know that our bodies are home to billions of bacteria and fungi, and depend on them for our health. At the same time, ecologists have discovered that there seem to be vanishingly few (perhaps no) page 26 human capacities that are not shared to some extent by other species, including communication and social organisation (and this also extends to insects and plants). Life on earth forms a holistic system, within which homo sapiens is but a single thread. If we don’t find a way of living within this web that treats it as a self-sustaining community, we shall surely perish. There are some parts of the world where setting aside really large areas for rewilding may have value – parts of the Scottish Highlands may fall into this category. But in most of Scotland, rewilding is likely to fall victim to the binary trap, with chunks of ‘nature’ interspersed with areas of conventional farming. There are several reasons why this would be problematic: • Nowhere in the world is now free from the effects of human activity; human withdrawal is impossible. • Insects, birds, mammals, even seeds don’t respect farm boundaries. Ecological health requires supportive habitat at landscape scale. • We still need to produce food. If withdrawing from substantial areas of land implies ever greater intensification of production, this will be ecologically counterproductive. • Above all, if we continue to evade the need to find a way of living responsibly within the ‘web of life’, exploitation and damage – affecting ourselves as well as the rest of life – will carry on. Cashing in ‘natural capital’ – as in the current carbon credit scam that is powering the explosion in commercial afforestation in Scotland – is no substitute for finding a place in an ecological community. A holistic response would require suitable financial support for farming, replacing the old EU system. England appears to have chosen the binary route I have criticised above. ‘Public money for public goods’ is going largely into ‘rewilded’ areas while at the same time farmers are encouraged to go high-tech and intensify even more on the rest of their land. (The rocketing prices of synthetic fertiliser, diesel and livestock feed – much of it sourced from imported ingredients from ecologically sensitive areas – might suggest that further intensification is a dead end.) The Scottish Government is still developing and consulting on a new framework, due to come in 2026, but seems to be focused on a more across-the-board, whole-farm approach that continues to support food production but increases the proportion of support going into biodiversity enhancement and greenhouse emissions reduction. This is a good start – though so far the proposals are far from sufficiently radical in my view. To come close to what is needed would demand a coherent framework of change in social as well as agricultural policy areas: • A large-scale shift towards regenerative farming methods; ecologically healthy soil is fundamental. • Social policies that ensure everyone can afford and has access to nutritious, goodquality, sustainably produced food. • A shift in diet towards a reduction in consumption of meat and dairy, and an increase in fruit and vegetables; and an appropriate response from food producers. • Support for local and community-based food supply chains with the aim of cutting food miles, boosting food security and enhancing the local economy. • Radical land reform, aiming to reduce average farm holding size, which, alongside large-scale investment in training and financial support for new entrants, would boost the numbers of land workers; less capital intensity, more labour intensity – a healthy social ecology is an intrinsic part of a healthy web of life. This is a challenging agenda, not least for farmers, especially in South West Scotland where pretty much all of us are livestock farmers. Is it do-able? I don’t know. But I do believe that without it, the future of food production here is bleak and the future of the web of life even bleaker. For more information about regenerative farming, see the article on the second page of this Land Use section. Richard Middleton Richard farms at Lochhill Farm, Crossmichael. Pictured is part of Lochhill Farm with some of the new woodland in the background, with Erncrogo Loch and in the distance Screel and Bengairn. Turn to the back page of this edition for details of ' Land Use Conversations: A Glenkens Future', an online event where you can get involved in the conversation about land use in the Glenkens. Glenkens Gazette page 27 The Optimistic Environmentalist Technology, Gadgets & Gizmos - Part Two... Get the most out of your batteries by treating them carefully. Different battery chemistries need handling differently. For instance, mobile phones usually have a lithium-ion battery. For maximum battery life always run the battery down to 20% before then charging it up to around 80%; allowing the battery to go out of this range makes it less efficient. As batteries begin to lose capacity after a certain number of cycles, make sure that you don't stick it on to charge for a little bit, just because you've got 20 minutes spare, but run it down and then charge to 80% each time. Don't forget, batteries contain valuable minerals so don't throw them in the bin, take the them to the Council's household waste sites for recycling. There have been many fires because people leave their chargers plugged in but unused for many hours; only plug them in when you need them - it's safer and saves power. Look for equipment that can be mended or upgraded, eg have the batteries replaced (look at www.ifixit.com for repairable/upgradeable devices and how to do it). Change components and don't automatically get a new piece of technology just because your contract has run out and you've been offered it. Only buy technology that meets your needs rather than getting a 'bigger and better' bit of equipment just because you can. Be clear to a shop assistant what you need the technology for and don't be persuaded to buy extra bits just because the seller is pushing it hard. Buy equipment that is flexible for your changing needs. Fairphone produce a mobile which is made to minimise impact on the environment – replaceable glass, aluminium casing not plastic, upgradable, etc. For instance, you can remove the camera, the screen and the battery (yes, it's not glued in!). To encourage you to repair bits to prolong the lifespan of the phone, they even send you a screwdriver which fits. Pass on or recycle equipment that you don't want any more, eg list it on Freecycle, sell on ebay, etc. Funded by electrical equipment manufacturers, www. recycleyourelectricals.org.uk covers reuse and repair as well as recycling of electricals. Don't always buy new when secondhand is good enough; sometimes you can buy better items that are secondhand rather than paying brand new prices. Lobby companies to produce equipment that uses less power and can be mended or upgraded, and demand clear, truthful and verifiable information about how the equipment is recycled at the end of life, not just thrown into landfill. If equipment is not made to last or is difficult to mend on purpose - in-built obsolescence - tell the company and publicise to other customers or websites to put pressure on companies. Contact politicians to ask how laws and regulations are to be changed to encourage, motivate or force companies to create products and services that allow for reuse, ability to mend or upgrade, and for responsible recycling or disposal. Encourage people in your local area to share equipment and technology; pass on what is not wanted any more; maybe form groups to make it easier to recycle products en masse; share ideas and think of ways that equipment can be used in different ways or sold to locals or tourists. For instance, some creative companies in Britain are using components from unused devices for alternative uses or decorative items e,g. circuitboard notepads. Denise MacDonald-Kiernan Fancy foraging? Above are some of the amazing edibles growing around Galloway at this time of year, courtesy of Mark Williams of Galloway Wild Foods. Why not see what you have growing around you? Glenkens Gazette page 28 sponsored by If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk FREE Lovely chair, needs some repair to the basketwork on one side and perhaps a craftsperson to freshen up the embroidery. Glassfronted cabinet is fine but needs the lock reset in order to close properly. Someone handy with a chisel looking for a place to display the family treasures perhaps?! Other items also including bedside cabinets, coffee tables and books on cats. Contact Rhoda on 07484 296 868. Brown sideboard. Please collect. Contact: Annikki 01644 460 640 Garden 'strawberry’ net available for any keen gardener. It stretches, so measurement is dodgy but say approximately 14m x 3m. It is two pieces joined together so could be separated. Please collect. Contact: 01644 430 293 or 07770 830 727 Children’s slide, 2.5m long. NOT freestanding – suitable for tree-house or similar. Can deliver. Contact: 01556 670 691 Horse manure, rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 WANTED Miniature Painting. By mistake I gave away a miniature painting on an easel to the Dalry Charity Shop. It's only about two inches high. Did you by chance buy such a painting from the shop in April? I would dearly love to have it back as it was painted by a relative. Cost reimbursed plus a reward and my undying thanks. Contact: Paul on 07973 174 342 Chest freezer. Contact: Tony on 07507 704 821 Old lawn mowers/strimmers/ other small machinery. Non-runners/broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 King size mattress, 2-seater sofa, water butt, outdoor bench, outdoor table & chairs. Contact: Sarah on 07453 858 505 or saraheathomas@gmail.com HOME WANTED IN THE GLENKENS We are seeking to buy a home with 2-3 bedrooms and 3-5 acres of land, somewhere in the Glenkens. Anywhere and any condition considered please help us to stay in the Glenkens! Contact: Abi and Bruce on 07340 531506 or abi@mordin.net Glenkens Gazette page 29 sponsored by Villagers in Parton volunteered their time to plant a new community woodland in the village. Around 30 people of all ages turned out on Sunday 3 April and between them they planted over 300 saplings in the field behind the village hall. The trees have been chosen to provide a mix of native species suitable for the location with space left in the middle for picnics! A lovely chance to catch up with all our neighbours and also create a woodland for future generations to enjoy. A special thank you to Paul Murray and Barbara Turnbull for organising and providing the saplings and expertise. Thank you too to Penny and Bridie for keeping everyone supplied with tea and cake. Pictured are some of the village's dedicated tree planters. Tom Marshall Glenkens Gazette page 30 GLENKENS PLACE-NAMES: PART XVI I was recently reading an article in a place names journal which referred to Tom a’ Mhòid in Glenlyon and I was struck by the correspondence with our own Tormoid Knowe, near Brockloch north of Carsphairn.* The word tom, ‘hillock, knoll’ doesn’t occur in the Galloway place-names so Tormoid is the closest Gallovidian Gaelic equivalent I guess. Tòrr also means ‘hill, mound etc’. The Gaelic term mòd means ‘assembly, meeting, court etc’ so Tom a’ Mhòid and Tòrr a' Mhòid ‘the knoll of the assembly’. JSNS states: The knoll (Tom a’ Mhóid) was investigated in 2017 and 2018 during the Early Christian landscape of Glen Lyon project, and analyses showed that the striking topography of the site was mostly due to natural sediments deposited from the nearby mountainside. Traces of quarrying activities conducted at the top of the knoll likely contributed to the sediments found in the excavation trenches further down the slope. There were also indications of attempts at levelling up and   creating   a   platform;   however   these   could   not   be   verified   (Busset, Maldonado and Kasten 2019a; Busset, Maldonado and Kasten 2019b, 14). While the archaeology could not confirm human intervention on the shaping of the knoll, this does not diminish its striking appearance. On the contrary, it seems natural that such a prominent feature supports further the choice to hold political or religious assemblies at this place, as discussed above. The Glenkens Tormoid is also quite a striking natural mound. It is situated on a bend on the northern bank of the Polcorroch Burn, Pol Corrach, ‘steep or N ew Galloway Golf Club Founded Foun ded 1902 www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk - 01644 420737 Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME angry burn’ in a gap between two areas of Sitka spruce. Could this place also have been an ancient assembly site? If so what kind of assembly and for what purpose? Alan James has pointed out to me that mòd in Scottish Gaelic seems to correspond to Old English (ge-)mōt, and, judging by the senses in Dwelly (Scots Gaelic Dictionary), referred very specifically to meetings of an official, judicial kind – baron courts, etc (except for the specialised sense of a music and poetry competition). This specific meaning of mòd would seem to preclude one potentially promising line of enquiry: that the assembly refers to a mustering of the tainchel, ‘beaters’ (a Scots term derived from Scots Gaelic timcheall, ‘surround’). Timcheall is probably found in the Glenkens place-name Knocktinkle, a small knowe overlooking Dalarran Holm and with a great view to the Rhinns of Kells (although note Markús’s reservation in respect of early forms on the PlaceNames of the Galloway Glens website). My suspicion is that Tormoid may be another of these gathering places for hunters is to some extent supported by the existance of the hill-name Craigencolon. This is the hill just north of the place-name Eldrick (from eileirg, ‘deer trap’), and given that proximity, it might be expected that the name could reflect hunting in the area. Craigencolon may be derived from Creag nan Còmhlan, ‘rock of the bands, bodies of people, circle, company, groups or troops’. This would fit well with the name being a reference to the tainchell. Many helpers would have been required to drive the deer to the eileirg. It may be noted however that the PGG website prefers Creag a’ Chuilinn, ‘rock of the holly’, as the derivation for Craigencolon. Reverting to the narrower definition of mòd then, are there any indications in what is now the upper part of Carsphairn parish of centres of judicial authority that might have generated the place-name Tòrr a’ Mhòid? Well, close by is marked on the OS map Brockloch Moat, just to the east of the Carsphairn Lane. There is also a Lamford Moat a bit further north. However at page 63 in the Inventory of Monuments in the Stewartry of Kirkcudbright 1914, it states: "Mote', Brockloch.-The O.S. map indicates a mote here. This is a long natural gravel ridge or moraine on which there are no indications of defenses". Also stated is: "Mote’ - Lamford. The mote marked by the roadside here is a natural mound, and though a broken section on the top discloses a few stones, laid there by the hand of man, there are no indications of any defenses whatsoever". Lamford itself is another hunting placename, being derived from Scots Gaelic longphort, a word originally meaning 'ship harbour’ but coming to mean ‘enclosure’ or ‘encampment’. In a record dated from 1645 Lamford or Over and Nether Lang Foordes was mentioned together with a place called Darnsekall. This is the modernday Darnshaw, over the other side of Lamford Hill near Waterhead . This may be derived from Scots Gaelic Doire nan Sgall, ‘copse of the heroes’, or even Doire nan Sgàill, ‘copse of the ghosts’. I have been told by a neighbouring resident, Liz Holmes, that Darnshaw is now deserted, its roof having apparently been removed thirty or so years ago. As Alan James has highlighted the relationship between Scots Gaelic scál, ‘a man, champion, hero’ and Scots Gaelic scáil, ‘shade, shadow, ghost’ in Scottish and Irish Gaelic usage is a bit confusing – basically, they’re the same word, Middle Irish scál, which the Dictionary of the Irish Language sv scal reckons was primarily used for supernatural beings, later for (super)humans. There is even a sense recorded in Scotland as ‘calf’ (Forbes in Dwelly) however I guess this was probably just an optimistic name for a bull-calf, ‘champion male’. The Gaelic word sgal, ‘ghost, spectre’, may be cognate with the English words ‘shy’ and ‘scare’1. These proposed connections will go back thousands of years to the common Indo-European roots of the Celtic and Germanic languages. Michael Ansell, Cars Fèarna * Places of Belief In Medieval Glen Lyon and Beyond: Onomastic and Archaeological Perspectives by Anouk Busset and Sofia EvemalmGraham, University of Glasgow. Journal of Scottish Place-Names Studies, No14. Glenkens Gazette page 31 THE BATTLE OF RULLION GREEN Many readers will have heard of the Pentlands Uprising, which should more correctly be known as the Glenkens Uprising according to the late Professor Ted Cowan. But as a reminder (very briefly)... In November 1666, four men attempted to rescue an old man being tortured by soldiers in St John’s Town of Dalry. The incident escalated and resulted in a rebel Covenanter army marching on Edinburgh. The rebel army were met by government troops at a place called Rullion Green, near Penicuik, and this resulted in the battle of Rullion Green in which the rebels were defeated. There is a memorial at the site of the battle and I had long promised myself a visit, which I finally managed in March. The photographs show the memorial, a close-up of the explanatory plaque and a view of the battlefield with Edinburgh in the background. A number of articles have been written about this period of history and several of these were published in the Glenkens Gazette and can be found online. Paul Goodwin Connecting in Communities After the retirement of Brian Jones and Chris Jowsey from our Connecting in Communities (CiC) project, the team is finally back up to full strength! We have two new team members - Lisa Ridley as Project Leader and Jo Jackson as Activity Officer. They will join Fiona Limbrey who remains in post as Volunteering and Capacity Building Officer. It’s great to see the team back in place, and I know that Lisa and Jo are looking forward to hitting the ground running for the final year of CiC delivery. Gordon McAdam Plumbing & Heating 22 Kirkland Street St John’s Town of Dalry 01644 430 393 07834 321 789 Lisa joins us from the Met Police, where she was a Police Officer, having previously been a Police Staff Investigator. Prior to that, she was a Senior Area Youth Worker for Hertfordshire County Council for 21 years, where she worked in partnership with regional and other organisations to support her teams to deliver various youth-based projects. She now lives in Mossdale and is looking forward to getting to know the Glenkens communities. L-R Lisa Ridley, CiC Project Leader, and Jo Jackson, CiC Activity Officer, with Helen Keron, Jo took early retirement Executive Manager of GCAT from teaching drama in Kirkcudbright Academy in the area, and she’s got loads of great 2019. Since then, she has ideas for that, so do look out for been supporting individuals within those new plans from June. the community, as well as supply Thanks as ever to the Big teaching. She lives in Kirkcudbright, Lottery, who core-fund Connecting but will be well known to some in Communities, to the Postcode of you from her support of the Lottery for supporting the activity CatStrand Arts programme. programme and to the Blackcraig Lisa’s main objective for the year Wind Farm Community Benefit fund, is to work with local organisations administered through the Glenkens across the Glenkens and district to and District Trust with Foundation really understand the needs of our Scotland, for supporting and communities so that we can plan for extending the project. Their support what we need to do across the area means that we can put on a lot of in 2023 and onwards. She’ll also be our CiC activities for free or low cost, working closely with me to move and is very much appreciated. the Community Action Plan forward, along with Fiona. Meanwhile, Jo will be putting on a series of activities targeted at different groups across Helen Keron, Executive Manager, GCAT Glenkens Gazette page 32 SCHOOLS' VISIT TO THE GAC S2 and S3 pupils from Castle Douglas High School and Dalry Secondary attended the Galloway Activity Centre (GAC) to enjoy a range of outdoor experiences. The activities on offer included archery, laser tag, the giant swing, paddle boarding, windsurfing, sailing and kayaking. The pupils had a great time and, as always, were a credit to their school. Liam Fleming, Physical Education/ Pupil Support Teacher Should Dalry Town Hall Become a Charity? Dalry Town Hall is a fine old building, built in 1858 and enhanced at the end of the 19th Century. It was founded by a group of local benefactors and constructed on a piece of land called the Kirk Knoll, part of what was known as the Moat Park, probably named from the adjacent motte and bailey structure overlooking the River Ken at this point. The plot was granted by John Eden Spalding and the Spalding name continues in the village in the name of the nearby Spalding Bowling Club. He and others: James Alexander, Thomas Barbour, Rev Samuel Blair, Wellwood Maxwell and David Cowan, formed a Trust to hold the building and HOUSE REPAIRS JOINERY Semi-retired Furniture Maker & Builder in GLENKENS AREA ...special rates for inclusion of tea, cake and friendly banter... Call Pete on 07970 462 088 its environs in trust for the inhabitants of Dalry and the public generally. The Trust continued by virtue of agreement amongst the existing Trustees as to the appointment of suitable newcomers to join the Trust whenever needed – particularly as numbers were diminished by death. It appears that the Trustees originally managed the hall directly but at some point a Committee of Management was needed and nowadays the present Management Committee operates under a Deed of Trust from 1964. Today the committee is the active partner in running the hall, with the current trustees being more or less silent partners. Decisions as to maintenance, activities, fundraising, hiring, accounts, etc all lie with the Management Committee. The trustees are now a number of separate individuals and the Trust is no longer a coherent body, having no formal structure, office bearers, meetings, bank account or decision making procedure. Nevertheless, the Trust remains the effective 'owner' of the hall, albeit on behalf of the larger community. In recent years this historic arrangement has placed the Management Committee at a disadvantage as it is not the owner of the hall and surrounding land. Thus, it cannot seek funds for significant works or developments on a building it does not own. The committee is aware that a proportion of funders will not provide grants to bodies other than charities and in many application forms, the first question is “Do you own the property?” Additionally, the trustees (and probably the committee as well) carry unlimited liability for any debts that might arise. In 2005 the Scottish Government brought forward legislation that created bodies named Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisations or SCIOs. A SCIO is a legal form unique to Scottish charities that can enter into contracts, employ staff, incur debts, own property, sue and be sued. It also provides a high degree of protection against liability. Moreover, the trustees must submit themselves to annual re-election and the SCIO can therefore be viewed as more democratically accountable than a historic trust. Since its establishment, many organisations have been created within this form of charitable structure and many existing bodies have transitioned to it to take advantage of the greater freedoms and protections it allows. The Dalry Town Hall Management Committee would like to see the hall move to becoming held by a SCIO, to allow it the freedom to develop the hall for the benefit of the community. The 1964 Deed suggests a mechanism for doing so. As a first stage, this requires that a Public Meeting be held in the hall and a vote be held indicating the approval and support of the community for such a move. Consequently, Dalry Town Hall SCIO (SC049437) was formed some two years ago to pursue this course of action. However, Covid intervened, and it is only now that progress can be made. A Notice of Public Meeting (p8) has been published to allow those who are interested in the future of Dalry Town Hall to discuss and vote on this move. J Reid jamescreid@hotmail.co.uk Glenkens Gazette After a three year Covid hiatus, the annual St Margaret’s Guild Plant & Bake Sale took place at the beginning of May at the church in New Galloway. This was very successful, raising over £620 for Dumfries and Galloway Blood Bikes, the charitable organisation set up by local volunteers to deliver essential blood and urgent medical supplies between NHS hospitals and healthcare sites in Dumfries and Galloway. Christine Rankin, chair of the St Margaret’s Guild, said: "It was wonderful to get back to having a social event in the church and being able to chat with people face to face, whilst raising money for a popular local charity". guild directs the fundraising and social activities and were delighted to welcome back the Balliol Singers, postponed from April 2020 due to the pandemic. Their concert, entitled Paella and Pasta: Musical Nourishment from Spain and Italy, was held at the church in early May. It was a real pleasure to listen to live music again whilst raising money for Guild funds. St Margaret’s is currently without a priest but there is an ongoing advertisement in the Church Times and it is hoped that a suitable applicant will come forward and be appointed. Meanwhile the vestry is most grateful to the team of visiting clergy enabling St Margaret’s to hold a Service every Sunday at 10.30am. Nicolette Wise Pictured below is the fundraising Plant & Bake Sale. There was also a one-prize raffle in aid of Ukraine for a tower of chocolate treats. This raised £150 and the lucky winner was Eva Pennington. Although relatively small, the congregation at St Margaret’s has always been committed to outreach in Dumfries and Galloway and beyond. The Glenkens Hustings Prior to the last local authority elections, Glenkens Community & Arts Trust hosted a hustings meeting at CatStrand on the evening of 25 April. Given that there were a number of new faces amongst the candidates, this was considered necessary so that the Glenkens electorate could see and hear from those putting themselves forward to represent us. Six out of the seven candidates attended and a lively session ensued in front of a large audience. Following the election Dougie Campbell (Independent), Andy McFarlane (SNP) and John Denerely (Scottish Conservative and Unionist) were elected for the Dee & Glenkens ward. WINDY STANDARD WIND FARM - FAMILY FUN OPEN DAY Come and visit Windy Standard Wind Farm and take part in a fun filled family open day! Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 June from 10am to 3pm Attendees will gather to be transported to the wind farm from the bottom of the access track. At the top they will be taken on a magical, and educational, tour of the wind farm site before retiring for complimentary lunch and refreshments in our marquee. The team will be on hand to talk about all things wind power before the event draws to a close and everyone is returned safely to the bottom of the hill by 3pm. To book visit www. windystandardwindfarm.co.uk For further information email communities@fredolsen.co.uk or call 07435763900. Advertisement St Margaret's Fundraising page 33 Glenkens Gazette Boosting biodiversity, businesses and community benefits page 34 Advertisement With 14 turbines, Quantans Hill Wind Farm will add around 90MW to Dumfries and Galloway’s homegrown electricity capacity, as well as battery storage. As a Vattenfall project, this major investment has also been designed to deliver tangible economic, biodiversity and community benefits to the local area around Carsphairn and across South West Scotland. The planning application expected to be submitted in the summer identifies potential for: Protecting habitats and improving biodiversity • Extensive habitat improvement measures – net gain for biodiversity • New native broadleaf trees to be planted and 145ha heathland restored • Peatland restoration – enough to cover 190 football pitches • Carbon emission saving of around 4 million tonnes Enhanced outdoor access and protecting heritage • 15km of new sign-posted, accessible tracks through restored habitats • Visitor sign-posting and additional pathways created • Improved access to and understanding of important WW2 crash site and other features of historical interest A major green investment in local communities • Building on our approach at South Kyle Wind Farm, maximising local jobs and supplier opportunities • New apprenticeships to be created • Estimated £7million boost to local economy • Up to £16million community benefits package with flexible, community-led approach Find out more about the Quantans Hill Wind Farm proposal and Vattenfall’s local approach by visiting: www.vattenfall.co.uk/quantanshill Data from Quantans Hill Environmental Impact Assessment Report (2022), Natural Power et al; and Vattenfall. Images top & bottom from Lee Williams for Vattenfall’s Pen Y Cymoedd Wind Farm in South Wales. Glenkens Gazette GLENKENS GLASS RECYCLING POINTS • Balmaclellan Stores, Balmaclellan page 35 Sports in Dalry Outdoor Bowls (from April) - for details contact Fiona Ramsay on 01644 430 587 Table Tennis (available 24/7) Snooker (available 24/7) • Memorial Hall, St Michael's Road, Crossmichael Indoor Bowls (October to March) Badminton (available 24/7) For details for table tennis, snooker, indoor bowls and badminton contact Gary Blissett on 01644 430 521. • Kirkland Street, St John's Town of Dalry CROSSMICHAEL THERAPY CENTRE • New Galloway, Carson's Knowe Car Park - Your Health is Important - • St David Street, Kirkpatrick Durham For details of other recycling points visit www.dumgal.gov. uk/wasterecycling - follow the ‘Recycling Points in the Community’ link. There is also a ‘Find My Nearest’ tool that enables you to find a range of local services, including recycling points. ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is probably best known for its treatment of pain. However, they can be used to treat a broader variety of conditions, from achy joints to anxiety, skin troubles to insomnia, acupuncture could help change the way you manage some of life’s health challenges. Matthew Pajo has been studying and practising Chinese medicine for over 25 years and has attained a Bachelor Health Science and Master Applied Science in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. As a highly skilled and trusted clinician, Matthew uses safe, effective, and natural treatments that can bring relief from acute and chronic conditions. Matthew is a member of the British Acupuncture Federation and the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians. To make an appointment call 07786 079 845 or email info@matthewpajo.co.uk For more information visit www.matthewpajo.co.uk Psychological Therapy Amber Dunlop-Pajo has spent over 20 years working as a psychologist and has attained a Bachelor Psychology (Hons) and Master Psychology (Health) and is a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society. Amber specialises in Women’s Health as well as depression, stress, anxiety and has a focus on health psychology. Contact Amber on 07389 713 106 or info@gallowaycounselling.co.uk For more information visit www.gallowaycounselling.co.uk Crossmichael Therapy Centre, The Old School, Crossmichael, DG7 3AP 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS General Medical & Dispensing Services FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY The Surgery High Street New Galloway Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm Sat 2-2.30 pm Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm  01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS  FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 Glenkens Gazette The Community Kindness Cupboard outside Dalry Library has home baking in every Thursday. page 36 WHERE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB LISTINGS Dumfries & Galloway! What's Going on @DGWGO on Facebook; What's Going On Glenkens @WGOGlenkens on Facebook; Glenkens Gazette @GlenkensNews on Facebook – once on the page for any of these, use the search function to look for jobs. The Glenkens' largest employer, Natural Power Consultants Ltd, also have a jobs page - www.naturalpower.com/uk/careers KEY GLENKENS CONTACTS LOCAL DOCTORS’ SURGERY Glenkens Medical Practice - 01644 420 234 COMMUNITY CONTACTS • Balmaclellan: Martin Warnock 07939 261 391 • Carsphairn: Liz Holmes - 07718 358 160 • Corsock: Julie Garton - 07769 647 702 • Kirkpatrick Durham: Heather 07551 639 629 • Crossmichael: Richard Middleton 01556 670 691 • Dalry: Graham West - 01644 430 503 • Mossdale: Shop - 01644 450 281 • New Galloway: Hayley Edgar 07741 656 601 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 FOOD DELIVERIES • Galloway Foodbank - 07730 788 335 • Hidden Veg - www. openfoodnetwork.org.uk/hiddenveg/shop • Ballards Butchers - 01556 502502 (they also deliver groceries) • Grierson’s Butchers: 01556 502 637 • Henderson’s Butchers: 01556 502 654 • Mitchell’s Greengrocers: 01556 502 077 • Fleet Fish: order before 1pm on Mondays for delivery the following week. Delivery days can be found when ordering at www.fleet-fish. co.uk or call 07966 103 912 • Roan’s Dairy - 01556 620 374 LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins at julia.higgins55@outlook.com Glenkens Community Shop: Contact Liz Lewis on 07530 804 217 or drop by the shop on Main Street, Dalry CatStrand: Contact Fiona Limbrey at fiona@catstrand. com or 01644 420 374 or pop in to the CatStrand Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact Ros Hill at ros.hill@rathanhouse.co.uk Schools: Visit the school office or call Dalry Primary on 01644 430 105 (for Nursery/ELC too), Dalry Secondary on 01644 430 259 or Kells on 01644 420 340 Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail.com or 01644 430 521 Carsphairn Heritage Initiative: Contact Karen Hall at carsphairnhi@gmail.com Dalry Town Hall: Contact Lesley Blissett at lesleyblissett52@gmail.com Glenkens Community Centre: Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact ngce5000@gmail.com or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Carsphairn Community Woodland Open Day Sunday 12 June All Welcome Come along and see what's been happening in Carsphairn's new community space! To find out more email carsphairncw@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie at mcnabb.laurie@dumgal.gov.uk If you would like to add your community organisation to this list please get in touch with the Gazette - contact details are on the back page. CHURCH TIMES CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sunday Services Balmaclellan: 11am - 5 June & 3 July Carsphairn: 11am - 12 June & 10 July Kells: 11am - 19 June & 17 July Dalry: 11am - 26 June & 31 July Special Services Communion, 10 June, 11am, Carsphairn Church. Quiz Night, Friday, 17 June, Dalry Town Hall. Presentation to minister followed by light buffet lunch, Sunday 31 July, 12.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Local Church of Scotland congregations can be accessed on YouTube or can be emailed. Contact David on 01644 430 380 for paper or email copies, or simply for a chat. SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: St Margaret's Church, Kenbridge Road, New Galloway, DG7 3RP Sundays: 10.30am Sung Eucharist, followed by coffees/teas Visitors are always welcome - for further information, including directions, please see our website www.stmargaretsnewgalloway.org or call our vestry secretary, Christine Rankin, on 01644 420 259. Glenkens Gazette page 37 GALLOWAY COMMUNITY TRANSPORT www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org email gct@catstrand.com phone 01644 420374 mobile 07841 512449 June - July 2022 Regular Services GK2 Glenkens-Castle Douglas (Tesco) Wednesday Evenings Out (Registered Route) Return 19:00 19:05 Dalry (Underhill) New Galloway 21:15 21:10 19:15 Mossdale 21:00 19:25 Laurieston 20:50 19:30 19:37 Townhead of Greenlaw Castle Douglas (Market St) 20:47 20:37 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:35 Booking not required Glenkens to Newton Stewart Fortnightly - Tuesday mornings Outward Pickups: Dalry (Underhill) 09:30 New Galloway (Town Hall) 09:35 CatStrand) 09:37 To Merrick Leisure Centre and Aldi Return Pickup Newton Stewart (Aldi Car Park) 11:30 Return fare £3.50 Advance booking required. Member Hire GCT has 16-, 15-, and 8-seater minibuses and a fully wheelchair accessible electric car available for hire by community organisations. For information about membership and terms and conditions of hire see the GCT website or phone 07841 512449. GCT Ebike Club If you are interested in joining the GCT Ebike Club please see https://www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org/gctebike-club phone 07704 662925 or email jon@catstrand.com EXCURSIONS 18 June 2022 Saturday THE MACHARS GARDENS A leisurely drive to Wigtownshire and visits to two private gardens full of interest and colour. Lunch at the Isle of Whithorn. Pickups: Dalry (Underhill Bus Stop) 0900, New Galloway (CatStrand) 0910, Castle Douglas (Market Hill Car Park) 0935, Kirkcudbright (Harbour Square Bus Stop) 0950, Gatehouse (Spar Shop Bus Stop) 1005 Admission £5. Fare £7 23 July 2022 Saturday THE LAKELAND GARDEN To Pooley Bridge, a leisurely scenic drive beside Lake Ullswater and over Kirkstone Pass with a lunchtime stop in Bowness-on-Windermere. Pickups: Dalry (Underhill Bus Stop) 0830, New Galloway (CatStrand) 0840, Kirkcudbright (Harbour Square Bus Stop) 0905, Castle Douglas (Market Hill Car Park) 0925, Dalbeattie (Craignair St Bus Stop) 0945, Dumfries (Wickes Car Park) 1000 Admission £5. Fare £12 For more info please see the website: https://www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org/excursions Drivers Needed Galloway Community Transport needs your help to provide a wide range of community transport services across the Stewartry and beyond. MINIBUS DRIVING Minibus drivers with D1 (101 or by test) are needed to do volunteer and paid driving for our wide range of member community groups. PATIENT TRANSPORT We also urgently need drivers with their own cars for our patient transport service. Our volunteer patient transport drivers receive a generous mileage reimbursement and the satisfaction of providing a vital service to vulnerable people in our communities. Interested? Email gct@catstrand.com or phone 07841 512449 Glenkens Gazette page 38 What's On June/July JUNE Wed 1, Yorkston, Thorne & Ghatak, 7:30pm, CatStrand Thu 2 to Sun 5, Spring Fling Open Studios, see p6 Fri 3, In The Weeds: An Tobar and Mull Theatre, 7:30pm, In The Weeds: An Tobar and Mull, CatStrand Fri 3, In The Weeds: An Tobar and Mull Theatre, 7:30pm, In The Weeds: An Tobar and Mull, CatStrand Sat 4, Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall, see p12 Thu 9, Glenkens Writer's Cafe, 7pm, CatStrand Wed 8, Film: Dune, 7:30pm, Dalry Town Hall Thu 9, Bancroft & Lyne, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 10, GB Ultras registration and start, Dalry Town Hall Sat 11, Resuscitation and Defibrillation: an open introduction, 10.30am12noon, New Galloway Town Hall Sun 12, Carsphairn Community Woodland Open Day - all welcome Sun 12, The Galloway Agreement presents the Ken Bridge Song Suite (marks the start of the Ken Bridge bicentenary celebrations), 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall, tickets from CatStrand Sat 18, GCT Bus Trip The Machars Gardens, see p37 Thu 23, Public Meeting, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall, see p13 Fri 24, Crime Writers Evening, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall, see p8 Fri 24, Though This Be Madness, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 25, Youth Beatz Trip, 11am–6.30pm, 12yrs+, 9am pickup CatStrand, see Young Creatives, see p9 Sat 25, Donald Watson Bird Event, all day drop-in from 10am, Dalry Town Hall Sat 25, Watson Birdsong Day: Birdsong and Landscape Walk, 10am-12noon, Dalry Town Hall Sat 25, Watson Birdsong day: Birdsong Studio, 2pm, 45 Main Street, Dalry Sat 25, SongWave Choir: Songs of the Summer, 3pm, Crossmichael Church Sat 25, Watson Birdsong day: Jackdaws and Other Friends - Book Launch, 6.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 25, Watson Birdsong Day: The Conference of Birds Concert , 7pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 25 & Sun 26, Windy Standard Family Open Day, 10am-3pm, Carsphairn, see p33 Sat 25, Though This Be Madness - Babes in Arms performance, 10.30am, CatStrand Thu 30, Land Use Conversations – a Glenkens Future, 7-8.30pm, online event, see back page Thu 30, Kirkcudbright Writers' Cafe, 7pm, Selkirk Arms JULY Sat 2, ICAT 22 (Industry Community and Alternative Technology) event, 1.305.30pm, Community Centre, Cotton St, Castle Douglas, for info contact 01644 420 361 Sun 3, J George Murphy Duo, 6.30pm, The Clachan Inn Mon 4, 11 & 18, Music in Film Workshop, 5.307.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway, age 12–16 Tue 5, MaMa - Family Workshop, 2pm, CatStrand Tue 5, MaMa–by Cosmic Dance, 7pm, CatStrand Sat 9, Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall, see p12 Mon 11, Dance the Beach Life, 10am–2pm, CatStrand, New Galloway, age 3–7yrs Wed 13, Drama Rama Workshop, 11am–12noon, CatStrand, New Galloway, age 6-9 Wed 13, Play in a Day Drama Workshop, 12–4pm, CatStrand, New Galloway, age 10+ Thu 14, Ken WordsGlenkens Writers' Cafe, 7pm, CatStrand Mon 18-Fri 22, DG Dance week, 10.30am–3.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway, age 11+ Tue 19, Collagraph Printmaking Masterclass, 10am–2pm, Smiddy, Balmaclellan, age 10-16 Tue 19, Canvas; Beginners Art Workshop, 2.30–5pm, The Smiddy, Balmaclellan, age 13+ Fri 22, ‘Up My Street’ Art Workshop, 10am-12pm, The Smiddy, Balmaclellan, age 10+ Sat 23, GCT Bus Trip The Lakeland Garden, see p37 Sun 24, Launch of Dragon Boats on Loch Ken, see p4 Glenkens Gazette page 39 REGULAR EVENTS Balmaclellan Village Hall: Tuesday Afternoon Teas, first Tues every month, to book email julia.higgins55@outlook.com Glenkens Crafters, Wed 10am2.30pm, for info contact Julia Higgins on 01644420297 Books in Balmaclellan Community Library, Mon 6-7pm, Wed 10am–12.30pm & Sat 10.30am-12.30pm Glenkens Art Group, Thur afternoons, contact Tom Leach on t_leach1@sky.com Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn: Craft Group, Fri 10am12noon,includes tea & coffee, Lagwyne Hall Bairn Banter; family stay & play session, 0-7 years, Sat 10-11.45am, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn CatStrand, New Galloway: Margaret Morris Movement: Health Play (age 3-7), Mon (during term time), 3.454.30pm Margaret Morris Movement: Children’s Grades & Youth Dance (age 8-15), Mon (during term time), 4.30-5.30pm Youth Volunteers (age 11-16), monthly, 5.30–7.30pm Scriptless Drama Club (age 11-19), Tue, 5.30–6.30pm Newton Stewart Bus Service to Tesco, Wednesday evenings A Chance to Dance, Thu biweekly, 6–8pm Dance Weekenders (age 12+), Sat - monthly, 1–4pm Art Explorers, Sat - monthly, 10-11am (age 5–8) & 11.15am– 12.30pm (age 8–12) CatStrand Youth Players, meet weekly to work on festival plays and an annual pantomime, contact briangm@catstrand.com New Galloway Town Hall: on Facebook KMANews or kmabrian@gmail.com Gentle Yoga, Fri 5.45-6.45pm, contact kathyr64@hotmail.co.uk Informal Family Badminton, (net and racquets but no line markings), New Galloway Town Hall, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Dalry Library: Random Writers (age 12+), Thu bi-weekly, Dalry Library, 3.45–5pm Dalry Town Hall: Crafty Corner with tea & biscuits, Mon 2-4pm, contact Kristina on 07789 680468 LING Lunches, Tue, Elevenses 11am & lunches from 12.302pm. No need to book, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Sports Evenings with indoor bowling and table tennis, Tues 7-9pm, drop in or contact Ray on 01644 420 438 Tai Chi, Wed 10.3011.30am, includes coffee & biscuits, contact Ju-lie gentletaichigroup@gmail.com Tai Chi, video-led instruction, Mon, 2-3pm, contact lesleyblissett52@gmail.com Wee Messy Crafters, Wed, 1-2pm, contact weemessycrafters@gmail.com Zumba, Wed 6.30-7.20pm & 7.25-8.15pm, contact samantha. rushton@hotmail.co.uk booking essential Martial Arts, Thur 5.30-6.30pm (children) & 7-9pm (age 6 and up), contact Brian or Nancy Glenkens Producers Market, 2nd Sat each month, 10am1pm, contact lesleyblissett52@ gmail.com Dalry Library & Customer Service Centre Main Street, Dalry, Tel: 01644 430 234 or 01556 502 643 Tuesday: For books and other walk-in services: 2-5pm Friday: For NEC Bus Pass and Blue Badge appointments and PCs: 11.30am – 12.30pm; for books and other walk-in services: 1 -4.30pm. Appointments can be booked in the library or on 01387 260 196. Dog Training, Tue, 7pm, contact Eric Broadhurst 07831 590 822 Film Nights, Wed, see listings opposite CatStrand Singers, Thu, 11am-12.30pm, contact anne. chaurand@btinternet.com Song Share, 1st Friday each mont, 8-11pm, contact anne. chaurand@btinternet.com Various: Crossmichael Heritage Centre Open Wed & Fri, 1.30-4.30pm USEFUL NUMBERS: ● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000 ● Police, non-emergency: 101 ● Doctor: 01644 420 234 ● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24 ● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000 Glenkens Gazette page 40 Results of Housing Survey The Glenkens housing survey is now complete. The survey, carried out by South of Scotland Community Housing (SOSCH), was commissioned by the Glenkens and District Trust (GDT), based upon findings contained in the Community Action Plan. This type of survey - a Housing Needs and Demand Assessment (HNDA) - is the key that unlocks funding support for community-led housing. This survey looked at the 10 communities within the GDT area. The aim of the survey was to produce data for individual communities and community organisations, who could then explore the potential for community-led housing solutions using the survey findings to underpin the start of any future project. In total there were 146 responses to the survey with most responses coming from four communities: Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, New Galloway and Kells, and St John’s Town of Dalry. Some key concerns highlighted were the lack of rental housing available, as well as affordable housing to buy, due to issues such as competition from buyers purchasing second homes, houses becoming short-term holiday lets, and the difficulty in securing affordable land for self-build opportunities. The knock-on effects of these issues were suggested in comments on how school rolls were falling, and that the vitality and sustainability of communities was being affected. With the ongoing trend of homeworking, many respondents felt that workspace within the home and workshops within/ alongside/in proximity to affordable housing was required. Future housing projects should consider how it might address the demand for such spaces. Another key element was energyefficiency. The survey results highlight the need for low-energy homes that are affordable to run, whether redeveloping existing property or new build. Respondents highlighted the need for more energy efficient homes, with over 50% of respondents indicating that fuel inefficiency was a factor in their homes not meeting their needs. By considering this through measures such as higher levels of insulation, triple glazing, etc, this would address both climate change and the rising cost of energy, to combat the increasing levels of fuel poverty. Going forward, communities can use the survey as evidence of community engagement for community-led housing grant funding as well as providing local level information on the need and demand for different types, size and tenure of housing. For further advice and information please contact SOSCH at www.sosch.org You can read the full report at www. glenkenstrust.org.uk/news GDT will also consider how best to use this report and ensure it is circulated to all relevant groups and individuals, hopefully gaining some momentum in addressing the numerous issues raised. Fiona Smith, GDT Land Use Conversations: A Glenkens Future 30th June, 7-8.30pm This Online event brings together a panel of local & national land use experts, organisations, artists and most important of all…you, to learn more about land use discussions and how we can all input our thoughts. Join us for a stimulating discussion & to share your views. Book your free online ticket, search on Eventbrite.co.uk for ‘Galloway Glens’ Event organised by local artists Leeming & Paterson, in partnership with the Galloway Glens Scheme. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Editing & Design: sarah.ade@gmail.com AUG/SEP COPY DEADLINE: 5 JULY The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No. SC032050  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. 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For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Corsock, Crossmichael, Kirkpatrick Durham, Laurieston, Mossdale, New Galloway, Parton and St John’s Town of Dalry April/May 2022 ISSUE 129 FREE BIG PLANS FOR CARSPHAIRN COMMUNITY WOODLAND In an exciting new step for the community of Carsphairn, local organisation Carsphairn Community Woodland (CCW) has taken ownership of its very own forest. The project has been progressing since 2016 when Carsphairn Community Trust responded to Forest Enterprise’s notice of sale of Muirdrochwood Forest. It's fantastic that all the hard work that has gone in over the past five years has finally paid off, and for the public to be able to start enjoying the benefits. Funding for the acquisition came principally from the Scottish Land Fund, with a significant discount from Forestry and Land Scotland for the public benefits the project will deliver, and also from Carsphairn Renewable Energy Fund Ltd. Carsphairn Community Woodland open day was held last October to celebrate the purchase of the land for the community. Hurdles that had to be overcome along the way included the discovery of larch disease and, of course, the pandemic over the past two years. Community ownership of the woodland, which was largely a conifer plantation, will provide greater access to the countryside and allow a more diverse woodland environment for wildlife to be created, for people to enjoy walking and picnicking in, and also to create a community hub for outdoor volunteering, activities and skills development. Continued on p2... #Tosser Litter Campaign Having collected over 30 Red Bull cans along just a few hundred metres of roadside, local photographer Ted Leeming decided that enough was enough. “These 'tossers' need to learn,” says Ted, who is installing signage to help draw attention to the matter. “If we all carry a bin bag and take but a few minutes to clear away a few bits of rubbish each we can all do a little bit to keep our beautiful Glenkens clean," he says. Ted is asking everyone to photograph and post offences on social media with appropriate hashtags such as #serialtosser, #casualtosser, #furtivetosser, #blatanttosser, #uttertosser, etc. "You get the idea," says Ted, "but please keep it clean! Send photos to the Gazette of your own examples (those you come across not that you create) together with any signage, A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative clean-ups or others measures you may think of to 'Stop the Tossers'." Littering is becoming a real problem in the area and other local bodies such as the Loch Ken Trust are also working to raise awareness - for more on this visit their Facebook page @lochkentrust In our next edition there will be a special Land Use Focus. If you would like to include something related to land use in the Glenkens please get in touch! www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 Carsphairn Community Forest Continued from front page... David McMillan, Chair of Carsphairn Community Woodland, said: "Carsphairn is a rural community working towards regeneration of an area with low employment opportunities and few outdoor community facilities. Taking ownership of this area of woodland gives us the opportunity to manage it sustainably for recreation and the wellbeing of the local residents and visitors, whilst enhancing the natural environment and creating new employment opportunities. "New footpaths, benches, picnic tables etc, will enhance local recreational opportunities and a local woodfuel supply will be created and commercial timber production will provide a longterm income stream for the community. "The celebratory event originally envisaged at the woodland, to mark the acquisition, was delayed due to COVID-19 restrictions, but finally took place in early October 2021. It was wellattended, with folks enjoying a walk around the land, learning about the plans for the community woodland and sharing soup and cakes around the fire." CCW secured development funding from South of Scotland Enterprise (SoSE) in September 2021. The diseased larch was felled over the winter, along with some Sitka spruce for the community woodland centre of activity. We were fortunate to have been provided with stone through the Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) power line work and this was used for groundworks and track enhancement. We are very excited to have our first staff member on board - Andy, our Community Forest Worker, joined us in February and will be a great asset to both woodland maintenance and volunteer activities. We look forward to welcoming our Community Forest Manager, Graeme, soon too. During March the infrastructure began to come together, with the construction of a forestry shed and a borehole for the water supply. The provision of equipment and machinery, also funded by SoSE, will enable CCW to develop the woodland to benefit the community. Once everything is in place CCW will be ready to welcome the community and visitors to enjoy the space, carry out woodland volunteering tasks such as tree planting and path maintenance, Isobel McBeth, founder and walk leader of the Glenkens Walking Group, has decided to retire after almost 15 years. many of us well into the future. A much appreciated feature of the walks was the coffee/tea and cakes organised by Isobel at the end of each walk. The £100 balance of the 'tea fund' will be donated to Macmillan Nurses. Isobel is not hanging up her boots, but will continue to walk with a few friends. Due to COVID restrictions members have fragmented into smaller informal groups who meet up casually for walks, so there is an opportunity for someone to canvas demand and potentially form a new group with a regular programme of walks. Gerry Cinderby and develop interest groups in other areas too. The Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP) have funded a wildlife hide which will enable people to enjoy the birds and red squirrels that frequent the woodland. GGLP also funded signage and seating through their small grants scheme. A 24 hour ‘Bioblitz’ is planned for later in the year where school children and the public will be invited to come along and help record all the wildlife and plants present in the woodland. CCW is a limited company with a number of directors and members, all coming from the Carsphairn area. We also have a number of supporters – anyone outwith the Carsphairn area and with an interest in Carsphairn Community Woodland is welcome to become a supporter. Forestry and rural training skills are some of our focus areas and training courses are currently being developed. If you are interested in becoming involved in any aspect of CCW, please contact carsphairncw@gmail.com The CCW Team Walking Group Dalry Founder Retires Library During that time she has introduced new walkers to the many scenic and often challenging local paths which cannot be found on maps. This knowledge is invaluable and will serve Book Group Would you like to belong to a book group that meets in Dalry Library? We are seeking interest in this, so in the first instance please leave your contact details with librarian Angela Miller. The library is open on Tuesdays 2pm until 5pm and Fridays 1pm until 4.30pm. The library service can provide up to 10 copies of titles to registered Book Groups. Glenkens Walking Group enjoying a walk around Loch Trool; Isobel is in the back row, second from the left. Thanks, June Hay Glenkens Gazette page 3 GLENKENS EBIKE CLUB TAKES TO THE ROAD After a slightly uncertain start last year, Galloway Community Transport’s (GCT) ebikes are hitting the road in earnest this spring. The GCT Ebike Club will be launched at an event at the CatStrand in New Galloway on Saturday 2 April. Drop in anytime between 1pm and 3pm to see the ebikes, meet the team and hear more about the club. If you’ve been hankering to feel the wind in your hair but feel that cycling might be a bit too strenuous, this is the very thing for you. The discrete electric motor in our state-of-the-art ebikes gives that little bit of assistance when needed and can greatly relieve the strain. GCT trialled an ebike hire scheme last summer but found that the logistics were impractically complicated. After considerable consultation with users and other ebike operators, we have formed an ebike club that will give Glenkens residents inexpensive and easy access to ebikes. The club is open to all Glenkens residents over the age of 16 with basic cycling competence. Working in A cycle training session with GCTs ebikes. partnership with Sustrans, GCT has skilled and qualified people available to help get you comfortable and competent on an ebike so you can quickly start to enjoy the ride. Free support will be provided for club members every Thursday at 10am at the CatStrand. If you’re interested in joining the club, visit www. gallowaycommunitytransport.org/ ebikes for more information and a downloadable membership form, give us a ring on 07704 662 925 or email jon@catstrand.com Membership costs £20 for 12 months and bike use is then £2 per day. As well as offering access to ebikes, the club will run regular training sessions and also organise accompanied rides on some of the many beautiful routes in the Glenkens, allowing members to extend their ebiking experience and share it with like-minded people. Galloway Community Transport, a Glenkens Community and Arts Trust project, gratefully acknowledges the funding and support provided by Cycling Scotland and Energy Saving Trust in the establishment of our ebike club and the training and support provided by Sustrans. Glen Murray, GCT Manager Balliol Singers A Capella Choir Dumfries-based a cappella choir The Balliol Singers is returning to New Galloway for the first time since 2008. The group will present a concert in St Margaret’s Church at 7.30pm on Tuesday 3 May, two years after its original scheduled date which was delayed due to the pandemic. One of the leading vocal ensembles working in the region, the 19-strong choir was founded in 1992 as The Balliol Consort and presents interesting and ambitious programmes of unaccompanied choral music from the mediaeval period up to modern times across a wide range of musical styles. Having previously explored music from Northern Europe, the choir is travelling south this time to offer a selection of pieces from Spain and Italy under the gastronomic title 'Paella and Pasta'. The two countries arguably provided the backbone of Renaissance music. Music from more recent times includes works by the operatic giants Rossini and Verdi, the great cellist Pablo Casals, and one of Spain’s greatest modern composers Manuel de Falla; of particular interest will be three movements from a setting by the Italian Ildebrando Pizzetti of the Requiem, widely considered to be one of the greatest twentieth-century works for unaccompanied choir. The concert is being given in aid of St Margaret’s, and admission is £10 (children are free). The church will also be holding a raffle during the course of the evening. Castanets will not be allowed! To reserve a seat email geoff. creamer@outlook.com or call 01848 330 821. Geoff Creamer Glenkens Gazette page 4 TED COWAN An Appreciation Since Ted Cowan’s sudden death at the beginning of January, scores of obituaries have appeared in Britain and abroad, in newspapers, in specialist journals and online. His international reputation as a historian has been wellmarked, and deservedly so, but despite his academic stature he was also deeply committed to the history and life of the Glenkens where he had made his home with his wife and fellow historian, Lizanne Henderson. The Glenkens Gazette has compiled this appreciation of Ted, contributed by five of those who had shared his local interests and worked closely with him. The Glenkens Story Mike Brown In 2015, when I mooted the idea of a group for those interested in our local history, Ted was particularly enthusiastic on two counts. ‘The Glenkens Story’ was to be run as informally as possible and the subtitle read 'Sharing Our History'. Ted, ever the popular historian, had no truck with the “sit there and we'll tell you your history” model. He generously used his contacts to bring leading speakers to our events but also encouraged local enthusiasts to share their knowledge and bring their questions. From the start he was involved heart and soul, whether trekking across the moors to view prehistoric remains, scrutinising wind-swept war memorials, delivering erudite lectures or mischievously flyting with visiting speakers. His suspicion of the ‘establishment’ was deep-rooted. He relished rattling unionist cages with his take on the Declaration of Arbroath. 'The Glenkens Story', he told me, was to be the title of his next-but-one book. No-one was better qualified to write it. What a loss - along with the passion, the knowledge and the memorable friendship. Covenanters and the Hoard - David Bartholomew When I first met Ted I was somewhat in awe of having one of Scotland’s foremost historians living within our parishes. I quickly discovered the humanity of the man – no professorial airs and graces, but a man with a passion for Scottish history and for the common man, always ready to engage in friendly banter. As Glenkens minister I quickly realised I needed to be aware of the impact of the Covenanting times. It was a subject close to Ted’s heart. In 2006 he and Lizanne came to one of the first outdoor conventicles I arranged – at Auchencloy, deep in the forest off the Raider’s Road. The midges were biting like fury – though a minor irritation compared to the poignant story of the four men who were martyred there. Several times Ted and I shared the stage for talks on the Covenanters. In 2016 on the 350th anniversary of the Glenkens Rising in Dalry, popularly known as the ‘Pentland Rising’, Ted argued strongly that it should be renamed the ‘Glenkens Rising’. I supported him fully on this. The Galloway Hoard also drew us together. I had been present when it was discovered. Ted was fascinated with its potential for opening a window into Galloway’s forgotten past, but didn’t believe the Vikings had ever settled in the area to any significant extent. I believe he has been vindicated. It is now recognised that it is much more complicated than being a simple Viking hoard and may more accurately be called an AngloSaxon hoard. Ted was a great ambassador for the Glenkens and for Galloway and we realise now what a great loss to our community has come with his passing. Gaelic and Galloway Scots - Michael Ansell Although not a Gaelic speaker himself, Ted was fascinated by the language and especially its contribution to the hidden cultural legacy of the South-West Gàidhealtachd, especially Galloway and Carrick. He was instrumental in bringing together one of the finest group of Gaelic academic experts in Scotland to a sell-out Glenkens Story conference in CatStrand in 2018. Up until the time of his death Ted was diligently working as co-editor of a publication of the proceedings of this conference entitled “Galloway: The Lost Province of Gaelic Scotland” due later this year. This volume will provide the most comprehensive coverage to date of Galloway's hidden Gaelic heritage. Ted was also a strong supporter of the local Scots language or leid. He frequently lamented the diminution in the use of Galloway Scots and feared it was going the way of Galloway Gaelic which had disappeared a few hundred years earlier. Again, through the auspices of the Glenkens Story, Ted was the moving force behind a 2019 CatStrand conference on Galloway Scots. Reflecting Ted's interest in the ongoing use of local Scots, part of this conference was given over to conversations in the vernacular between John (Cubby) McCubbing of New Galloway and Robin Jardine from Balmaclellan. I still struggle with the thought we can’t have any more pints and ribald banter with the great man. And all the discussions that might have been. Glenkens Gazette Crossmichael Heritage John Nelson “There was no battle of Spearford!” declared Ted. “There’s no documented proof.” I was taken aback. I had named my house after that well-known local ‘punch-up’. “There is a poem about it!” I said. “A Victorian invention” he retorted. I still don’t know whether he was winding me up. I never will. I enjoyed Ted’s company hugely; he and I were the same vintage and shared the same healthy cynicism. His religion, I have been told, was staunch contrarian, a sub-sect of my belief that there are only two ways to do something, my way and the wrong way! I came to know Ted well through our common interest in local history and enjoyed his talks at CatStrand and Wigtown. I looked forward to his regular articles in the Gazette. Both Ted and Lizanne enthusiastically supported our local history project, and three years ago, agreed to open Crossmichael Heritage Centre together. Ted opened the exhibition, Lizanne ‘cut the ribbon’ and launched the adjacent ‘Hearse Hoose’ time-line which displays events in the parish and the wider world. Ted was great company and with his friendly manner and cheery outlook was absorbed seamlessly by, and became a valued part of, Glenkens life. Ted was a valued friend and I will miss him. page 5 the point I’m going to make.” The term ‘polymath’ could have been invented to describe Ted. This was sometimes a problem. Many of us will have attended talks by Ted where his sheer breadth of knowledge took him in unscripted directions, the audience enthralled by his words albeit unrelated to the title of his talk! A CatStrand lecture on Robert Heron, the 18th century New Galloway polymath, saw Ted entertainingly digress into Heron’s ‘partiality for liquor‘ and descent to an early death in London, despite the protests of an audience member expecting to hear of Heron’s scholarship in divinity and literature. Ted had a great interest in Scottish fiction, particularly writers such as R L Stevenson and S R Crockett who was born at Little Duchrae near Laurieston. In 2014 he played a leading role in commemorating the centenary of the author’s death helping to stage a fullday conference followed by a period costume dinner in the Ken Bridge. The next day he led a minibus tour of Crockett sites. Always a committed Scot, with much of his work reflecting this, Ted accepted all political viewpoints and relished informed debate. One of the few times I saw him stuck for words was when I suggested that had the nationalists adopted the slogan ‘Yes please‘ to counter the unionists’ ‘No thanks‘ they might have been successful. He secretly liked that! A colleague of mine used to refer disparagingly to those he considered less interesting as 'not a man for a long train journey'. No one would ever level that charge at Ted, a man I got to know well and whose company was always welcome and indeed sought out. A pint at the Ken Bridge will be a lesser experience without his company. ● In the next Gazette, Jo Miller will reflect on Ted’s contribution to preserving the Glenkens’ heritage of music and song. Glenkens Community & Arts Trust - Alan Smith Ted was a member of the Glenkens Community and Arts Trust board for seven years where his views were regularly controversial and challenging but always appreciated. His ability to politely stifle pomposity in any form was a joy to behold. He wore his knowledge lightly and didn’t need props. Asked if he would be using PowerPoint he replied: “the power is in Ted (centre) on a Glenkens Story field trip to prehistoric sites on Berdennoch Hill. David Tallontire CHIMNEY SWEEP Covering the Glenkens & further afield 07709 144 299 - wood burners - multi-fuel stoves - open fires - Agas - Rayburns - birds nest removal with CCTV inspection - certificates issued - feel free to call for advice - Find me on Facebook 唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀Ⰰ 䰀漀漀猀攀 䌀漀瘀攀爀猀Ⰰ 䘀愀戀爀椀挀猀Ⰰ 䌀甀猀栀椀漀渀猀 刀攀昀椀氀氀攀搀 䘀爀攀攀 䔀猀琀椀洀愀琀攀猀 吀栀攀 圀漀爀欀猀栀漀瀀Ⰰ 䴀漀渀礀戀甀椀攀Ⰰ 䌀漀爀猀漀挀欀⸀ 䐀䜀㜀 ㌀䐀夀 眀眀眀⸀䠀愀爀爀椀猀ⴀ唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀 ㄀㘀㐀㐀 㐀㐀 㔀㈀㤀 Glenkens Gazette page 6 Action Plan Steering Group The Glenkens and District Community Action Plan (CAP) has taken an important step towards delivery of the priorities of our communities with the appointment of the final members of the newly formed CAP Steering Group. This group is the custodian of the Action Plan, with a remit to ensure delivery of the plan and to make sure that it remains relevant to the needs of the communities. After a public recruitment effort in February the following members have joined the steering group: • Joe Seed • Sarah Ade • John Paterson • Bob Glaister • Caroline Reeves These new members add to the current Glenkens & District Trust (GDT) trustees with a seat on the steering group: • Tom Marshall • Richard Middleton • Andrew Mellor • Fiona Smith (interim chair) Plus independent member: • Barney Fryer Within this group there is a diverse spread of Glenkens and district geography, age, interests and experience. GDT feel that this is an important transition to embedding delivery of the action plan within our communities. As per the Terms of Reference for the group, GDT trustees will never make up more than a third of this group, so Andrew Mellor will be stepping down shortly to keep this balance in place. GDT thank him and Julie Garton for their work on the steering group to this point. This group will support and guide the work of Helen Keron, executive manager for the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, in her efforts to see the CAP priorities delivered by a network of local organisations, all working together where it adds value to achieve the most that we can for our communities. In parallel news, a number of projects that will deliver Action Plan priorities were funded in the most recent round of GDT funding, and hopefully some of these will be reported on in the next edition of the Gazette. ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY SCANNING Dairy & Sucklers; Ageing, Twin & Barren Detection. Trailer system includes triplets, marking and shedding. Pregnancy and number of pups. For bookings and info: Duncan Kennedy 07860 474001 dk@passcan.co.uk www.passcan.co.uk Glenkens Gazette Dalry School Woodland Dalry School is the first school in the Stewartry to benefit from the South of Scotland Tree Planting grant. Over 300 mixed native deciduous trees sourced from Scottish nurseries, along with donations of local saplings, have been planted. This has been a great project with the whole school getting involved. This project is predominantly funded by a South of Scotland Tree Planting grant secured by Dalry Community Council through the Galloway Glens scheme. The community council also applied for trees from the Queen's Green Canopy project on behalf of the school, as well as sourcing and buying some local trees themselves to add to the mix. Lachlan (P4) said: "The tree planting will save the earth and provide oxygen for us to breathe." Archie (P5) said: "The trees will help protect nature and give the animals food and a safe habitat." P3,4,5 class teacher Mrs Devlin said: "This project was such a fantastic learning opportunity, with the children seeing that their actions can have a direct and positive impact on the environment and the importance of trees for our health and wellbeing. It really is a wonderful legacy and something that they can all nurture and watch grow whilst they are in school, and then revisit when they are adults." You can view the school trees on the map at www.queensgreencanopy.org/ map-education-hub Right - S1&2 pupils planting a tree. Below - the P3,4,5 class ready to plant. Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP Solicitors and Estate Agents Dumfries & Galloway 01556 503744 www.ggblaw.co.uk All legal advice Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie Kirkcudbright and Dumfries page 7 Glenkens Gazette page 8 Renovation of Carsphairn War Memorial Carsphairn Community Council is working with Carsphairn Heritage Initiative to plan a renovation of the community's war memorial for the centenary of its original dedication. An article in the The Scotsman from 10 April 1923 records: "The war memorial designed by Captain John W Dods, Dumfries, and erected in memory of the men from the parish of Carsphairn, Kirkcudbrightshire, who fell in the great war, was unveiled on Sunday by Colonel William H Clark Kennedy, VC (Canadians), a native of the parish, who came all the way from Montral [sic] to perform the ceremony. Captain Cathcart, of Brockloch, accepted custody of the memorial on behalf of the parish council. Mr Wm McCall MacMillan, of Lamloch, gave an endowment of £100 for the upkeep of the memorial." Following the abolition of Parish Councils as a consequence of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1929, all assets previously held in trust by the people of Carsphairn were transferred into the ownership of Dumfries & Galloway Council. Carsphairn, like many other parishes, maintained ownership of its war memorial for a grand total of six years. Original unveiling of Carsphairn War Memorial 1923 © Carsphairn Heritage Archive. Community councillor Matt Hickman, who is leading the project on behalf of both the groups involved, said: "Given the vast social and cultural significance of our war memorial, its increasingly dishevelled state is somewhat distressing, regardless of the council's best efforts at routine maintenance with a very limited budget. It was when I stopped to look at the war memorial in Dalmellington and saw the little plaque at the bottom proclaiming it had been 'renovated by the community' some years ago that the idea of a full restoration for the centenary occurred. I'm very keen that this is a project to foster inclusion of the whole community and invite anyone who feels they may have any time or ideas to offer get in touch either by email at hickmantrail@ gmail.com or give me a ring on 07531 035824. I'll be very pleased to hear from you." CATSTRAND EST 2007 A GLENKENS STREAM OF ARTS & EVENTS CATSTRAND SPRING HIGHLIGHTS April 6TH Our Carnal Hearts 7:30pm - 9:00pm at CatStrand OUR CARNAL HEARTS, by Rachel Mars, Arch 468 and An Tobar & Mull Theatre. Glenkens Food Hub will be returning to a street near you soon! Bringing the very best of locally sourced and sustainably produced food to your doorstep Follow us on Open Food Network for updates https://openfoodnetwork.org.uk/glenkensfood-hub 7TH Clare Hammond, pianist 7:30pm - 9:00pm at Catstrand Acclaimed as a “pianist of extraordinary gifts” (Gramophone) and “immense power” (The Times). 9TH The Rheingans Sisters 17TH 7:30pm - 9:30pm at CatStrand May Siobhan Miller 18TH 7:30pm - 9:00pm at CatStrand A richly celebrated Scottish folk singer and songwriter. ‘One of the best Scottish traditional singers on the planet’ / fRoots. Nettles in the Garden Travelling Shadow Theatre + workshop. 2:30pm at Lagwyne Hall For family audiences 2+ with babes in arms. Show lasts 30 mins followed by 30 min workshop. Odd Socks by Nikki Kalkman 15TH 3pm at CatStrand Ages 5+ and families. Show lasts 45 mins. Seed Heart 16TH 2:30 pm at CatStrand Show is suitable for all ages & lasts 30 Mins. Workshop is suitable for ages 5+ and lasts 60 mins. A unique and unmissable act on the folk and world music stage today, Rowan and Anna play a plethora of instruments in their live shows. 21ST Vanishing Point presents The Metamorphosis: Unplugged 7:30pm - 9:00pm at CatStrand A musical, cabaret-style night out from the team that brought you The Dark Carnival Unplugged. For more information or to book: www.gcat.scot or tel. 01644 420374 Glenkens Gazette page 9 CatStrand Highlights As we head into spring I'm delighted to set out a few highlights of our packed programme of theatre, music and children's events. I’m especially looking forward to Metamorphosis and Our Carnal Hearts, two brilliant contemporary theatre companies with a bit of an edge. They promise to be unforgettable experiences. Rapture Bites returns after postponements due to COVID and the invasion of Ukraine with A Number, an award-winning and powerful play. Some of the best children's theatre is on its way, thanks to the Puppet Animation Festival and Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival. Our music lineup features well-kent faces and incredible quality of artists whether your interest is folk, classical, comedy or world music. For further event details for April and May check out the ad on the page opposite and the What's On listings on p34. Hope to see you soon! Peter Renwick, GCAT Arts Culture & Heritage Manager Vanishing Point presents The Metamorphosis: Unplugged Saturday 21 May, 7.30pm, CatStrand. NEW FACES AT GCAT Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) said farewell to chairman Alan Smith in January after over 11 years of service with the organisation. Alan leaves the organisation in excellent shape. He has seen it grow to its present despite two floods, one pandemic and (on the brighter side) the creation of The Smiddy venue and the refurbishment of the Men’s Shed. "His pragmatic approach, unfailing optimism (and ability to generate funds!) will be sorely missed," says GCAT executive manager, Helen Keron. Taking over from Alan as GCAT chair is Peter Fryer. Peter has had a home in Dalry for over 20 years but for most of that time has worked abroad in Africa and the Middle East. Peter began his career as a geologist and then qualified as a chartered accountant. After starting in the oil industry, he was latterly the group accountant at the Birmingham Post & Mail Group. Peter moved to Zambia in 1996 where he met his wife Trish, who was the head of the Konkola Mine School. Peter and Trish returned to the Glenkens full time in 2016 and Peter joined the Board of GCAT in 2021. GCAT also welcomes a new member of the Board, Lindsey Smith. Lindsey will be well known to many, as she was the business support manager of GCAT for eight years, until she moved on to The Stove in November 2021. Staff at GCAT have also seen a lot of changes over the last few months. Gill Warnock has recently been joined in her role as business support manager by Keith Halsall as business support assistant. Peter Renwick continues as arts, culture and heritage manager, supported by youth arts co-ordinator Cat Caulfield. Glen Murray, Glenkens Community Transport (GCT) manager, has been joined by Jon Betts, GCT assistant. Jon has particular responsibility for the eBike Club (see article on p3). The only outstanding GCAT posts now are for the Connecting in Communities project manager and activity coordinator, and it is hoped these roles will be filled in April. Until then, Fiona Limbrey is holding the fort. Meanwhile, Helen Keron continues in her role of executive manager, which has a dual remit of heading up GCAT while also supporting delivery of the Community Action Plan across the Glenkens and district. Contact details for all GCAT staff can be found on the front inside page of the CatStrand brochure or on our website at www.gcat.scot GCAT's new chair, Peter Fryer. Glenkens Gazette page 10 black water of dee RESTORATION VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME Join Galloway Fisheries Trust and help them to restore the Black Water of Dee with an exciting range of activities over the next few months. Join us and learn how to improve fish habitat, plant a tree or help monitor river life. 10TH MARCH DECIDUOUS TREE PLANTING AND RIVER CHANNEL MODIFICATION. 24TH MARCH INSTALLING LARGE WOODY DEBRIS FEATURES AND TREE PLANTING. 7TH APRIL CONIFER REGEN CLEARANCE, INSTALLING LARGE WOODY DEBRIS FEATURES AND TREE PLANTING. 14TH APRIL INVERTEBRATE SURVEY DAY 21ST APRIL INSTALLING LARGE WOODY DEBRIS FEATURES AND TREE PLANTING. 28TH APRIL ELECTROFISHING DEMONSTRATION 12TH MAY GRAVEL LOOSENING We will meet at the Clatteringshaws Dam entrance to the Raiders Road at 10:00. Please bring a packed lunch and wear warm waterproof outdoor clothing and wellies (waders if you have them for in-river work). We will finish by 15:30 on most days. If you would like to attend a volunteer day, please book your place with Rowan McCleary at the GFT. rowan@gallowayfisheriestrust.org or 01671 40 3011 PROJECT IN FOCUS Glenkens Gazette page 11 The CatStrand Singers The Galloway Glens, through the ‘Our Heritage’ Small Grants Scheme, is supporting The CatStrand Singers – a singing group that is inspired by our landscape. We met online for over a year until summer 2021 when we could meet outside in a member of the choir’s beautiful garden. It was so lovely to sing together again. Using Zoom online is great in many ways, but the big drawback is the choir cannot hear each other sing because of time delay with the connection, so the excitement of getting back together was huge. People worried that they wouldn’t know how to do it anymore, but there was no need to worry, we all project we’re involved in: "Singing together is so uplifting! And singing about the beautiful Galloway Glens makes it even more special." "Among all the wonderful songs Nicola has written for the Galloway Glens singers, my favourite is one called Rhona. The haunting melody reminds me of my friend who sadly died a couple of years ago and this beautiful song makes me think of the weekly journey we made by the Nicola Black, choir director, gives side of Loch Ken putting the world an update from the project: to rights, on our The CatStrand way to the song Singers are so sessions." delighted to be "When COVID back together meant meeting and singing outside, again! welcoming When COVID friends into my came along and garden to sing nobody could together joyfully meet up we was amazing." started meeting "Miles from online. That was Doon and miles a great thing but, to go. Worth living where we every mile to be do with patchy with everyone internet, it wasn’t singing. ('Miles the answer for from Doon and everyone. When miles to go' is a lockdown came, line from one of we were just the songs.)" starting to learn "Singing during the songs for lockdown in our new CD and Kathryn’s lovely book. garden was This project, such a pleasure! one which is The CatStrand Singers enjoying a session in Kath's garden last summer. Back in the supported by hall with more The Galloway people we’re Glens Landscape slotted right back in. really coming together and making a Partnership, involved the writing We have our first recording session good sound." or arrangement of 17 songs which really soon, and hope to have the are about or have connections to For more information about The book and CD out in the Autumn. the area. Some songs have been CatStrand Singers or might be Here are some things members of created from poems by members of interested in joining, please do the choir have been saying about the choir, others from the Ken Words get in touch with the CatStrand on getting back together and the Project workshops. 01644 420 374. Sponsored page, working in partnership W W W. G A L L O W AY G L E N S . O R G Glenkens Gazette page 12 Blackcraig Fund Update The Glenkens and District Trust, working in partnership with Foundation Scotland, is delighted to announce a further nine awards made from the Community Fund in its winter round, with a total sum awarded of £136,826. The trustees were particularly pleased to see applications coming from right across the area of benefit, and spanning the Fund’s strategic priorities. Some successful applications included £14,000 to Kirkpatrick Durham Community Hall for urgent rewiring work to keep this valued facility in safe use; £25,000 to active new group Dunscore Playpark Project towards putting in a new tarmac path round the playing fields in the village; and £12,540 to the Scottish Woodland Trust (SWT) reserve at Knowetop Lochs to contribute to the repair of the boardwalks. Knowtop Lochs nature reserve, near Balmaclellan, has a lovely circular walk, great for families. Once installed, the new section of boardwalk will mean SWT can keep the reserve open to the public and will have a lifespan of 30 years. Knowtop Lochs, situated between Balmaclellan and Corsock © SWT More information about this hidden gem, where to find it and how to get involved in the local volunteer group can be found at www. scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/reserve/ knowetop-lochs In addition to these diverse awards, the trustees were delighted that some of the early priorities identified in the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan (CAP) published in 2020 are starting to come to fruition in the shape of developed projects which are being taken forward by a range of local community organisations. Awards directly aligned with the Glenkens CAP included support for activities for young people, led by Local Initiatives in New Galloway with support from GCAT Youth Arts; the development of a local food hub from Propagate CIC; and a new Glenkens website, providing information and listings for events, activities and facilities right across the Glenkens area, co-ordinated by GCAT. A full list of awards can be found at www.tinyurl.com/blackcraigawards SOPHIE'S POEM Sophie Roberts, aged 12, will be writing a poem for each issue of the Gazette. Sophie says: "I first started writing poetry in primary school and found I really enjoyed it. I have written a number of poems inspired by nature and my surroundings. I write mostly about the beach as I find it very inspirational. "I look forward to writing more and expanding my range of topics." Old Oak The leaves on the old oak Moving on the breeze They are attached by such small thread and can fall with such great ease The big sturdy trunk Growing by the year It grows up tall into the sky If it should fall, I fear The branches, curled into each other Entwined again and again I look into them and feel lost Every now and then The majestic oak in my garden Oh so deeply peaceful When I look at it everyday All sad feelings go away Glenkens Gazette page 13 Waterside Hill Community Area Local communities are exploring plans for how they would like to use an area set aside amongst the woodland creation scheme on Waterside Hill. An inaugural meet on the hill in late February was attended by 12 people, a real intergenerational gathering spanning at least six decades. There was lots of chat around what people hoped would be protected – small burns, trees, the view back to Dalry - as well as what they might want to use the space for. Initial ideas included natural play features, a pond, a hut or cabin, a covered seating area and meandering, accessible paths. Funding investigations are underway and we hope to have more news on that soon. More walks and gatherings are planned - it would be great to involve as many people as possible and hear a wide range of ideas. Please email sjtdalrycc@gmail.com with your thoughts, or visit the Waterside Ways Facebook page to stay updated on the progress of this project. Pictured is the group who attended the February walk up Waterside Hill. THE GLENKENS STORY The Glenkens Story local history group has resumed its programme with a presentation on the results of the Borgue field names project. Field-names can contain a wealth of information on local history, farming, ecology, wildlife, customs, language and so on. This is all lost when the names cease to be used (or are replaced by numbers!). The Borgue project has achieved much and The Glenkens Story was meeting in March to discover how this was achieved and whether there is support for a similar project in the Glenkens, an area with a different and changing land-use story. A report will appear in the next Gazette. The Glenkens Story has established a successful tradition of an annual full-day conference. The latest event, originally scheduled for 2020, has twice been postponed by the pandemic but it is hoped to go ahead on Saturday 3 September. The Early Peoples of Galloway conference will focus on the peoples who inhabited what is now Greater Galloway during the ten thousand years between the retreat of the glaciers and the year 1000 AD. Experts from a variety of fields will explore the story of these immigrants, their identities, cultures and languages and their impacts and legacies over successive centuries. The talk will be held at CatStrand from 10am to 5pm, tickets are £30 including coffees and buffet lunch (£20 for students). Tickets purchased for the postponed conferences of 2020 and 2021 can be carried forward. Numerous events are being staged to mark the bicentenary of the Ken Bridge and on Saturday 24 September The Glenkens Story will present Crossing the Ken: Bridges, Fords and Ferries The River Ken is a defining feature of the Glenkens. It also a dividing feature. For centuries local people have looked for ways to make the crossing, culminating in Rennie’s 5-arched bridge opened in 1822. As part of the celebrations the Glenkens Story will present an afternoon of talks on the history of the crossings including, among others, contributions from Bruce Keith, author of Bridgescapes of Scotland, David Bartholomew on the history of Ken crossings, Archie McConnel on the cartographic record and Michael Ansell in conversation with local people sharing stories and recollections of this iconic bridge. If you wish to be added to the Glenkens Story mailing list please contact me on mbrown99@dircon. co.uk Mike Brown, Convener, The Glenkens Story steering group Glenkens Gazette page 14 Kirkcudbright Half Marathon After the cancellations of 2020 and 2021 the Kirkcudbright Academy Parent Council has announced that the school's half marathon will go ahead on Saturday 28 May. The route remains the same as in 2019, starting at the Academy and taking in the scenic sights around Kirkcudbright and St Mary's Isle before heading out of town along the ‘Beeches’ road to Twynholm, proceeding south to Kirkcudbright Bay and back to the finishing line at school. Entry is online only - there will be no walk-up entries on the day. All races depart from the Kirkcudbright Academy field. The walk departs at 9am and the half marathon/10km departs at 11am. For details and maps visit www.kahm.org.uk and for online entries visit www. entrycentral.com The starting line at the 2019 Kirkcudbright Half Marathon. We are continuing to raise sponsorship monies but would like to acknowledge the financial contributions held over from 2020 from the Stewartry Sports Council, Carson & Trotter, GS Construction and The Galloway News. If you would like to contribute financially or assist on the day please contact race coordinator Richard Nash (who is based in New Galloway) on richard.m.nash@ btinternet.com or for general information email kahminfo@ gmail.com Glenkens - Producers' Market Shop online: www.ballardsbutchers.co.uk Email: shop@ballardsbutchers.co.uk Tel: 01556 502 501 Free Local Delivery Tues & Fri (orders over £20) Wide Variety of Local Produce Butcher Meat Fruit & Veg Milk & Bread Available to order 2nd Saturday Monthly Dalry Town Hall, 10am-1pm - 9th April & 14th May - Fresh vegetables, baked goods, preserves, bread, fresh meat, smoked products, real ale and artisan gin, chocolates, fresh pasta, handmade crafts and cards, plants and more... Want to know what’s going on? Then visit www.dalrytownhall.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 15 Community Project to Assess Mental Health and Wellbeing The global pandemic has changed the way we use services and how we interact with each other. We also have to deal with world events and local issues which all take a toll on our mental health. We may have lost loved ones, felt isolated, lacked creative spaces or had to give up our favourite hobby. No matter what our circumstances or background, we have all had to adapt how we live and work. Dalry Community Council has commissioned a Glenkens Community Wellbeing Survey, which will initially be rolled out to Dalry residents before being expanded to the rest of the Glenkens. This is to discover where people could benefit from support to self-manage and maintain their own mental health, the purpose is to help enable individuals and the community to manage their wellbeing and strengthen their resilience. We are also passionate about prevention when it comes to wellbeing and would also like to hear from those who feel they do not have mental health issues. Everyone’s views are welcome and can help the community as a whole. Here’s where you can help... You have an opportunity to tell us what your needs are and find ways to help you feel better in yourself. Is it a lack of resources that's holding you back, timings of groups that don’t suit, lack of activities to spark your interest? Are you feeling isolated due to working from home and missing that office support? Are you alone for the first time due to a bereavement and need support? Would you like more intergenerational events mixing old and young together? Let us know and have your say! Once we have the information provided from this survey we will incorporate findings from the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan and address the areas that effect the community and individuals. We propose to implement a range of wellbeing initiatives which are inclusive, accessible, inspiring and supportive, mapping what we already have and know through existing support groups, clubs, activities and resources that meet the needs of Dalry and its residents. We will then seek to focus on any gaps through a second round of funding and initiatives. If this is successful it will be rolled out to the wider Glenkens area. If you have any questions or would like to get involved please email Dalry Community Council at sjtdalrycc@gmail.com Dalry Community LOCAL PLACE PLANS Council hopes to Local Place Plans are part of the Government’s wider work on planning reform and implementation of the Planning (Scotland) Act 2019. They offer the opportunity for a community-led, collaborative approach to creating great local places. Local Place Plans can support community aspirations on the big challenges for a future Scotland, such as responding to the global climate emergency and tackling inequalities. It is vital that local people have the opportunity to engage meaningfully and have a positive influence in the future planning of development in their areas. The aim is to significantly enhance engagement in development planning, effectively empowering communities to play a proactive role in defining the future of their places. Local Place Plans are communityled plans setting out proposals for the development and use of land. Introduced by the 2019 Act, these plans will set out a community’s aspirations for its future development. Once completed and then registered by the planning authority, they are to be taken into account in the preparation of the relevant local development plan. Local Place Plans are a way for communities, working with local authorities and other public sector organisations, to bring forward proposals that reflect National and Local Outcomes. Also, by reflecting those wider policies and plans in Local Place Plans, communities should find it easier to make change happen. In addition, the Place Principle promotes a shared understanding of place, and the need to take a more collaborative approach to a place's services and assets to achieve better outcomes for people and communities. The principle requests that all those responsible for providing services and looking after assets in a place need to work and plan together, and with local communities, to improve the lives of people, support inclusive and sustainable economic growth and create more successful places.” Excerpt from www.gov.scot start creating a Local Place Plan in the coming months and has set up a steering group to drive the project forward. It will use data from previous consultations and reports such as the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan, the Citizens Panel pilot and the results of a current Mental Health & Wellbeing survey (see article above) as baseline data to consult with the community. The steering group hopes to be able to share as much of the process as it can with other local communities to give them a head start on writing plans of their own. If anyone is keen to be involved with the steering group please send an email to Dalry Community Council at sjtdalrycc@gmail.com Glenkens Gazette People, Places and Outdoor Spaces Our new strapline, 'People, Places and Outdoor Spaces', has helped in a successful funding bid for the Scottish Government’s Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund. We argued in our bid that everything LING offers can help communities to thrive and can strengthen our resilience when times are hard, and were delighted to be awarded a major grant from the fund to appoint an events, activities and inclusion manager for two years, part-time. New Galloway Town Hall Renovations - Full Steam Ahead! The fundraising for the Town Hall renovations has been going from strength to strength and we’re all set to embark on the major works throughout the summer months. As part of that funding, we have secured a grant from the Architectural Heritage Fund to recruit a part-time project officer to oversee the renovation work. Externally, our plans for the building include repairs to the roof and walls, and repainting. Internally there will be complete rewiring and the creation of a greener heating system and installation of a lift. Youth Work After consultation with young people and discussion with other local organisations, we have been successful in securing a grant from the Blackcraig Windfarm Community Fund for the appointment of a parttime youth activity and development page 16 worker. We are thrilled about this as engaging young people has been an ambition for a long time. This role will complement the CatStrand Youth Arts programme by focusing on opportunities for sports, the outdoors and youth-led social activities across the Glenkens, not just in New Galloway and Kells, and work with young people to help shape the future of youth provision in the area. LING Lunches on the Go Once More On Tuesday 1 March, we opened the doors again at last for LING Lunches, our weekly community meals and meet-up, that had to be paused and, for a time, become a monthly meals delivery service due to Covid restrictions. 1,000 Canadian Dollars Previously we recounted the tale of Dr Millman’s great-great-granddaughter who contacted us to find out a bit more about him. We discovered he had been provost 150 years ago and initiated the fund raising for the town hall clock, which still keeps time today. We sent them information and photographs and as a thank you, they were happy to offer us a donation to help with our Crowdfunder. Imagine our astonishment and gratitude when what arrived in the LING bank account was a donation of $1,000! This gave a real lift to our Crowdfunder campaign and we succeeded in hitting our target of £5000 by 28 February - a huge thank you to everyone who contributed. Other fundraising has gone on alongside, with some members of our community pulling out all the stops. A range of fun and entertaining events generated with great energy and enthusiasm by our Events Manager, Neil, have also helped with raising funds. In trying to match-fund the offer of £175,000 from the UK Government’s Family and friends coming to stay? Short of space? Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 www.covenanters-holidaycottagescotland.co.uk Kindling available Community Ownership Fund, we have worked hard at seeking grants from other trusts and foundations and so far have gratefully received funds from eight local and national funding bodies. New Chair at the Helm Since 2008, Ros Hill has been the cheerleader in chief for LING and New Galloway Town Hall. As chair, she has kept faith with the vision that this building can and should be saved for community use. Not only that, but she has enabled us to take on the restoration of the Garroch Estate Walled Garden and the clearing of miles and miles of footpaths and woodland walks. Now she has decided to step down, though staying on the Board as a trustee, and Mary Smith has been elected to chair. Mary hopes to support the Board and volunteers to build on Ros’ vision at this next stage in LING’s development. With two new trustees joining us – Susan Dunstan and Poppy Gilbert – we are in a strong position as we move into this next chapter. Thank You As always, we want to express a huge thank you to all the volunteers who give time and effort to support the Town Hall renovation, events, walled garden and woodland path projects. We hope that, with the funding in place now for paid roles to further support our work and volunteers, and with a focus on working closely with other organisations in the Glenkens, we can move forward to help serve the whole Glenkens community in a time when building positive connections, reaching our most vulnerable and isolated and creating opportunities for people of all ages to get together is more important than ever. We always welcome any interest in volunteering - for an informal chat please get in touch on newgallowaytownhall@gmail.com For more details on our job opportunities please see our ad on the back page of this issue or visit www. newgallowaytownhall.com MOVING HOME Glenkens Gazette When we moved to the Glenkens almost exactly a year ago we didn’t really know what to expect. We had both lived in cities for most of our adult lives, and my memories of countryside living were limited to my childhood on the Devon moors which, as someone in their forties, felt like a very long time ago now! page 17 sign from nature to get moving on drilling a borehole, and life went on. When the house was invaded by various bugs and beasts (at the last count we’ve had bats in the loft conversion, frogs in the toilet, flying ants en masse down the chimney and, of course, the usual suspects - midges and cleggs) we rescued, released and ‘dealt’ with them accordingly. At first it felt quite overwhelming, almost like a sort of culture shock, but with trees and vast open space rather than high-rises and the thousands of people you get in cities. I remember finding the first few weeks disconcerting. There was the quietness, punctuated by the wind and the gentle rumbling of the river in the distance, and the pure darkness of the nights. There was the vastness of the wilderness we found ourselves in, and how it made you feel almost inconsequential. Looking out through the trees and over the moorland it was hard not to feel nature's indifference to our existence. During those quiet times I often felt like if I stopped looking for even a moment that the wilderness would just reach out and claim back our little cottage for itself, covering it in moss and greenness. Over time though it started to become the new normal. The wildness of outside started to feel protective rather than threatening and nature's powerful and unrelenting force became a source of comfort. We still faced trials, but they became just another part of rural living. During the summer, when our water source dried up we bought ourselves a water filter and used the river instead. We looked at it as a We weathered the many storms, dodged fallen trees, and repaired blown down chicken runs. We cooked our teas on the woodburner when the power went out for the thousandth time, and escaped to the CatStrand cafe for cheese toasties and to charge our phones when it got too much. A year down the line it feels like we’re starting to make real progress in our new life. We built a greenhouse with way too many parts and steps (I confidently proclaimed it should only take a couple of days, but unsurprisingly those days turned into weeks) that is now filled with seed trays, ready for this season's vegetables and flowers. We got the borehole dug, and hit water at 70 metres down. It was a messy, muddy and noisy business but having an actual water supply that doesn’t dry up as soon as the sun comes out is a real joy. We have enough wood prepared to see us through many winters to come, and enough batteries to weather any storms, and the power cuts that come with them. The other morning, as I was walking to the hen house to let them out for the day, I was struck by just how lucky we were to live here. There was a sharp frost on the ground and everything was sparkling in the early morning sun; multiple tiny rainbows, reflecting off the blades of grass and brittle winter twigs of the downy birch and rowan trees. The air was especially clean and fresh, even for here, and it felt like if I stopped for more than five seconds I'd end up becoming transfixed and mesmerised by it all - frozen in time for a while, like the frostcoated wilderness. The hens, sensing my approach, started clucking and squawking, telling me they wanted out and to stop my lagging but, for a moment, one short beautiful moment, everything felt calm and everything felt right. When I got to the henhouse I found two eggs - the first they had laid since we got them half a year ago. I like to think the hens were letting me know that everything takes time, that new isn’t new forever and that, in this case, when new becomes normal, you know you’ve arrived. Freiya Benson Glenkens Gazette page 18 CatStrand Youth Players The panto performances seem a long time ago now, but it was great to be back on stage again with the everpopular Christmas panto. Old Mother Hubbard played to three full houses in December and was thoroughly enjoyed by the audiences and the cast. Straight after Christmas, thoughts turned to the SCDA Drama Festival and two plays were selected to be entered into the 2022 competition. The Festival was stopped in its tracks in 2020 when the first lockdown hit shortly after the Stewartry District Round was completed and CatStrand Players’ much acclaimed winning play, Henna Night, by Amy Rosenthal was unable to progress to the next round. With this in mind, it was decided to enter Henna Night again in the Open Festival and the Youth Festival entry was appropriately called Lockdown, written by Douglas Craven but not about the type of lockdown we have become used to over the past two years! Both of the plays were very successful at the Stewartry Festival, picking up six trophies between them and for the first time ever, both CatStrand plays would progress to the West of Scotland Finals in Dunoon on 19 March. Lockdown, directed by James Wallace won the Youth Festival and also the awards for Best Stage Presentation, Best Moment of Theatre YP And they all lived happily ever after © Ian Biggar and Audience Choice. Henna Night, directed by Brian where they will compete against the Edgar, was second in the Open Festival other winning teams from around the and also won the Audience Choice West of Scotland for a place at the award. Although there weren’t as many Scottish Final. clubs competing in the festival as there The plays will also be performed usually is, this was still a tremendous again at CatStrand on Thursday 24 achievement and both teams are really March together with some comedy looking forward to their visit to Dunoon sketches from the newly formed to represent the Stewartry District Scriptless Drama Group. BUSINESS in the SPOTLIGHT stunned at the range of talent exhibited in the gallery." Phil offers a showcase to artists and makers who have long since become friends, with the key to his business ethos being the concept of a truly mutually beneficial and supportive working relationship. The gallery is nestled in the heart of Laurieston village, equidistant between New Galloway, Gatehouse, Kirkcudbright and Castle Douglas; "at the crossroads of both history and the future", says Phil with a grin. "It’s been a tricky journey these last two years," muses gallery owner Phil, "and as we emerge, blinking, into the light of a relatively new world, it’s also a great world with much to savour, enjoy and take pleasure in." Phil's trademark enthusiasm remains undimmed as he continues to build upon and improve his gallery space which aims to celebrate this beautiful part of Scotland. He says: "The depth of creative talent here in Galloway is incredibly high but remains relatively untapped; visitors from outside the region are often Comments in the visitors book and reviews on Google, TripAdvisor and other social media attest to the pleasure found by visitors and locals alike when they happen upon this hidden gem on their travels. A fairly recent evolution to the gallery has been the introduction of a wonderfully bright and surprisingly spacious tearoom. You can sit down to a range of filter coffees, loose-leafed teas and locally-produced cakes from Jackie Povall at Fabby Cakes in New Galloway. Local artists and makers on display include Pamela Grace, Amanda Simmons, Clare Dawdry, Grahame Young and many more alongside the fine art photography of owner Phil himself, with a more recent addition of organic perfumes by Flaya, jewellery by Elizabeth Gault and astounding box creations by Jenoch Wood. Opening times are Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10am to 4pm and Sundays from 10am to 5pm. To get in touch, visit GalleryatLaurieston on Facebook or call 01644 450 235. Glenkens Gazette page 19 My Dad and Admiral Horton Men (and women) who have fought in wars rarely speak of their experiences. And in my opinion when they do, it is usually to tell a funny tale. Such was the case with my father, Henry Arthur Goodwin. Dad would have celebrated his 100th birthday on 10 February this year, but alas he got nowhere near; he died in 1980. But the recent centenary of his birth set me to thinking about one of the very occasional tales he told of his war. Dad was enlisted into the Royal Navy on 8 September 1942 as a stoker; the job involved looking after the engines on board ship. In dad’s case these were diesel engines on a diesel electric ship, an unlikely job for someone who had served his apprenticeship as a French-polisher. He was posted to HMS Bayntun (K310) which was a Captain class frigate built in the USA under the lend/lease scheme. Based out of Londonderry, the ship was mainly involved in Atlantic and Mediterranean convoy escorts, and hunting for U-boats; she did see some action. One weekend, Dad had a weekend pass which was cancelled at short notice because a VIP (Admiral Sir Max Horton) wanted to inspect the ship and the whole ship’s company was required to be present and dressed in their best ‘square rig’. We can imagine that he was pretty annoyed, having his weekend spoiled. I will pause my tale for the moment to give you a little background…each navy ship had a purser (known colloquially as the ‘pusser’) whose job included issuing personal clothing and equipment to all sailors. The kit as issued included trousers made of a heavy material and with vertical creases, ribbons that were a good length and a ‘tally’ ribbon worn around the hat which was ‘just so’. In the way of things, all sailors promptly had various changes made to their uniform (to be cool as we would say nowadays); these included new lightweight trousers with horizontal (‘seven seas’) creases, shorter ribbons and the tally had a bow over one eye. When the admiral came on board, everyone in the ship's company was wearing the customary ‘cool’ form of the uniform but Dad, by way of protest, was wearing full ‘pussers issue’, which must have stood out like a sore thumb. As my dad explained to me, when Admiral My dad, Henry Arthur Goodwin Max Horton inspected the crew he stopped at Dad, peering through a gin soaked haze, looked him up and down and asked his name. Apparently the admiral didn’t speak to anyone else on the ship and for a few days afterwards, everyone wanted to know what the admiral had said and what his reply had been…”Goodwin, sir”! Sometimes to make a protest you don’t have to break the rules; a work-to-rule can have the same effect. Thankfully I have inherited the same ‘awkward’ gene. Paul Goodwin 20s Plenty for New Galloway At the start of January, Kells Community Council (CC) arranged for a survey to be distributed to residents of New Galloway asking whether they felt the village would benefit from a 20mph speed limit. The majority of the forms were returned with overwhelming support for the CC view that we should have the lower speed limit, and at the February community council meeting the findings were given to regional councillor Jane Maitland. The need for a survey regarding people's views on the speed limit came directly from the regional council. When Kells CC approached D&G Council with regard to local support for the Scottish Government’s move towards imposing a safer speed limit in all built up areas, the council responded that claiming residents wish this change is not enough and that evidence needed to be provided. The survey form was delivered to every household in the village, and 126 signatures were returned in favour of a 20mph limit. Lois Aitkenhead Glenkens Gazette Art, Farming, Forestry & Conservation What a fantastic evening was had at the Art, Farming, Forestry & Conservation conversation, linked to CatStrand’s exhibition by Leeming + Paterson. Artists Ted Leeming and Morag Paterson explore biodiversity through the lens of photography. In an innovative move, they hosted an evening bringing together voices from the worlds of hill farming, forestry and conservation. Art, especially ecological art, is a brilliant way to bring different areas of expertise together, flushing out interdisciplinary connections and allowing the audience and speakers to discuss solutions to problems or threats to local landscapes. The event was brilliantly chaired by Alan Smith of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust. The first to speak was Patrick Laurie who runs a small farm in Galloway and is also the author of the award winning book Native: Life in a Vanishing Landscape. Patrick is a farmer with a drive for upland conservation and working with native cattle, grouse and wading birds. On listening to him talk, I was struck by his passion and the way he felt a deep connection with the land and the nature. This is why he is such a brilliant writer but it means he feels the pain of the land and species loss deeply. Patrick spoke honestly about his concern that the average age of farmers is getting older and with land being sought after by large forestry companies there was a temptation for families who had farmed this land for generations to sell. Fast on the heels of Patrick was speaker Anna Lawrence who helped us understand more about forestry, both the dangers to the environment around us but also the opportunities for community led rewilding. Anna is a professor at the University of the Highlands and Islands, and her mission is to bridge the gap between extreme forms of forestry, through what she calls non-binary forestry. She described some excellent examples of rewilding, biodiversity, and a balanced approach to planting and encouraging nature to reclaim the land. The discussion was very enlightening and productive with Alan ensuring people were allowed to express their concerns provoked by the excellent speakers. How could the community halt the march page 20 of commercial forestry or was it too late? Why were there not more grants for biodiversity, not just in patches of the landscape, but covering a larger area? Morag and Ted aren’t experts in the areas being discussed but, through their photographic observations, they were able to create a space for this ecologically intelligent and timely conversation to take place. For me, relatively new to this impressive community, I was struck by the spirit and the pride of the people working and living on the land in Galloway; if they can't find a solution then no-one can! Their strength seems to lie in an ability to look out into the world for solutions and then look within their communities to try and test these innovative ways of living in balance, and protecting and enhancing the natural world around them. Jan Hogarth Local Food Network Grows Propagate is delighted to announce that we have been awarded around £8,000 from the Communities Wellbeing Fund for our Growing Connections project - more food and growing events that bring the community together during 2022. Following on from the Seed Swap in March in New Galloway, you can expect to find gardening activities popping up across the Glenkens. We have also just heard that a funding application to Blackcraig Wind Farm Fund to support setup and initial running costs for the Glenkens Food Hub has been successful. This will mean that the very best of local and sustainably sourced products can be delivered to your door. We are looking to connect with more veg growers in the area who can supply the Food Hub, even if only with a very small amount. If you are a keen grower, or know someone who is - please get in touch on abi@ propagate.org.uk Abi Mordin, Propagate Glenkens Gazette page 21 Slow Down for Corsock This article is not really about speed signs - it's more about slowing down in general. This evidence that villagers felt traffic needed to slow down enabled funding to be secured from the Strategic Timber Transport Scheme and the Glenkens & District Trust to install two electronic speed signs in February 2022, which was great. However, the most common question asked during the project was "why bother?" - the signs don’t dispense fines, they can only politely remind drivers of their speed with a hope that this will gently encourage them to abide by the limits. My response is that, in a way, the signs are much more than that. Recent years have not been kind to Corsock. We have lost vital community assets like the school and the pub. Often these losses have been due to broader changes in society, yet on a village scale they have a huge impact and are mourned. houses huddle for no seeming reason or purpose - we look in one direction towards the Glenkens and the other towards Dumfries. With the loss of these core elements of village life, a place like Corsock risks becoming a place that people just hurry through, a bend in the road around which a group of persistent But Corsock has an identity - it has its own history, its own sense of place and its own sense of purpose. The new signs are a reminder of the speed limit, but they also reflect the work over the last 18 months to look after ‘here’. We want drivers to know that we care about Corsock, and that we aren’t just a blip along the route of getting from one place to another. So the next time you see the Corsock signs flash up your speed, remind yourself to slow down - maybe even stop - and have a look around; we really are a very nice little village! McNabb Laurie, Corsock Community Council Pictured alongside Corsock's new speed sign are, left to right, Lindsay Stewart with children, Sharon Mitchell with children, Willie Dickson and councillor Iain Howie. Neil's Comic Capers Neil Paterson can be commissioned to do cartoons for special events and occasions such as retirements, birthdays, weddings, etc. To get in touch email pater5365@yahoo.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 22 sponsored by If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk FREE Brown leather reclining chair, reasonable condition, contact Mark on 07515 052 238 Electric lawn mower and grass box. Contact: Ian on 07840 506 516 Three-seater IKEA Karlanda sofa, approx 7ft long, with spare set of covers. The sofa is light blue/grey, and the spare covers are mustard yellow. New Galloway. Contact: 07763170098 Horse manure, rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 FOR SALE Electric cement mixer: Wickes Belle Minimix 130. Good condition, little used, £100. Needs to be collected. Contact: 01644 460 516 Elite Care wheelchair, suitable for large person, barely used. £100. Contact: 07521 902 567 WANTED bench, outdoor table & chairs. Contact: Sarah on 07453 858 505 or saraheathomas@gmail.com LOCAL JOBS Dalry-based company Natural Chest freezer. Contact: Tony on 07507 704 821 Old lawn mowers/strimmers/ other small machinery. Non-runners/broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 King size mattress, 2-seater sofa, water butt, outdoor Power Ltd has two local jobs going - Lead Driller and Business Support Assistant. To find out more visit www. naturalpower.com/uk/careers HOME WANTED IN THE GLENKENS We are seeking to buy a home with 2-3 bedrooms and 3-5 acres of land, somewhere in the Glenkens. We've been here for almost two years renting, are active in the local community and want to put down roots. Anywhere and any condition considered please help us to stay in the Glenkens! Contact: Abi and Bruce on 07340 531506 or abi@mordin.net FESTIVAL OF DIVAS AND ICONS Knockengorroch Festival has revealed its 2022 theme, Divas and Icons, through a photo series with rap artist and singer Nova aka Nova Scotia The Truth, who will be performing at this year's festival. Pictured beside the Deugh river, Carsphairn, Nova presents this year’s theme in a homage to the endangered freshwater mussel of Scottish rivers in a scene inspired by Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus. See back page for ad with festival details. Glenkens Gazette page 23 sponsored by WE ARE THE ARK You are likely to see signs like these appearing outside Glenkens gardens in the coming months. They are part of an international initiative entitled We Are The Ark which aims to promote the use of gardens as sanctuaries for our beleaguered and diminishing ecosystems and wildlife. Many people have already given over parts of their gardens to safe habitats for other species; this initiative is about encouraging others to join in. It requires very little effort or cost as you just return part of your garden to native species, and put up a sign saying: THIS IS AN ARK www.wearetheark.org The signs let your neighbours and passers-by know that the wildness of your garden is intentional (and not neglect!). Hopefully it will encourage them to join in. By working together we can provide our villages and neighbourhoods with desperatelyneeded wildlife corridors full of birds, bees, butterflies, hedgehogs, and 1000s of struggling species of native plants, insects, mammals and birds. We Are The Ark was started in Ireland by Mary Reynolds, who describes herself as "a reformed landscape gardener". She won a big award at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2002 but then realised in a eureka moment that imposed landscaping was the last thing wild systems needed, and she started this project for gardens. You can take part whether you have a window box or a hundred acres. By handing back part of our gardens to nature and giving a minimal helping hand to restore ecosystems we become, in Mary Reynolds’ phrase, “a guardian rather than a gardener”. The rest of our gardens can still be used for growing vegetables, our favourite flowers or space for recreation. We Are The Ark is now an international movement with thousands of supporters, and we have an informal group operating in the Glenkens. You can take part without contacting anyone, but if you would like to get involved you can email margaret. elphinstone@dircon.co.uk We’d like to hear what you are doing or planning to do with your gardens and your ideas for restoring space for natural ecosystems in the numerous gardens of the Glenkens. To find out more visit www. wearetheark.org or there is also a podcast at https://pca.st/vkgfd4vn Margaret Elphinstone Glenkens Gazette page 24 The Optimistic Environmentalist Technology, Gadgets & Gizmos We have become reliant on machines and technology to help us do day-to-day activities, to keep us safe and comfortable, relaxed, energised or entertained. However, our demand for the metals and minerals necessary for our machines and for power are growing all the time, causing us problems that we must all take responsibility for and do everything we can to deal with the issues. Waste in Technology Figures state that Britain produces 1.6 million tons of WEEE (waste electric and electronic equipment) which is approximately 23.9 kgs per person thrown away each year. Global figures are estimated at 53.6 million tons (12 October 2021). their technology. Apple has complained that this will stifle innovation. I, though, am sick of buying the right cable for each piece of technology despite of having a drawer full and would be very grateful if Britain follows Europe with new legislation. ...What Can We Do? Clear your drawers, cupboards and rooms by passing on all electric or electronic items or recycling them. Many charities and some charity shops accept mobile phones and other electrical items. Alternatively, give them away via sites like Freecycle or Gumtree. How Machines and Technology are Designed is Crucial There is a growing call to encourage companies to create machines that can be mended or upgraded to reduce machines like they used to. The Right to Repair national and international movement (www.repair.eu) is asking for responsible design and stopping inbuilt obsolescence, ie items being made that fail after a short time and cannot be mended. Individuals and groups are involved in various campaigns including the reintroduction of removable and replaceable batteries in devices. Our TVs are among the most power-intensive domestic items in the home because of the amount of power a TV uses ... and how much Companies are time in a day we have them on. realising that reducing In November 2020 research commissioned by community-run mobile network, giffgaff, indicated that Britons have 55 million unused mobiles lying around (www.metro. co.uk). Researchers polled 2,300 adults from 20 cities. Giffgaff are running the Check Your Drawers campaign urging the public to pass on or recycle old devices, or refurbish them for cash for yourself or the community. In 2017, Zero Waste Scotland (zerowastescotland.org) found that a third of the respondents had unused smart phones, a quarter were hoarding unused digital cameras, and 19 percent had unused computers or laptops. Not only are we creating new technology but we are keeping very important metals and minerals trapped in machines that could be recycled for other devices, thus reducing mining. Research by the European Commission (EC) in 2020 showed that 11,000 tonnes of chargers alone are wasted every year. The European Commission brought in a proposal in 2021 to reduce the amount of waste in technology and electrical products. For instance, they proposed the use of a universal charging port for all phones, tablets, laptops, smart speakers, digital cameras, games consoles and headphones ie the USB-C port. The proposal also takes away the need to supply a charger with a device. This will enable people to use their chargers between machines and carry on with them when they buy new items. Some companies are already using this port in how much needs throwing away. Unfortunately, computer and mobile phone manufacturers in the last few years have been gluing in batteries and other parts and sealing in components so that the whole item has to be replaced, and recycling them into components parts or metals is difficult. For example, we have a very good tumble dryer built by a well-known German manufacturer, bought for its environmental and efficiency aspects a while ago. It developed an issue that needed the condenser to be cleaned of lint drawn through the machine. My husband is an ex-electronics engineer; it took him six hours to take it apart and reassemble it. This involved complete disassembly, disconnecting cable looms, removing the drum, etc. The actual cleaning took only ten minutes and the only tool required was a vacuum cleaner. If the manufacturer had put an access hatch at the side, you could get to the part straightaway, or if the machine had been designed differently so the condenser could be easily reached, it would be cheap and easy to repair. Better design would stop machines being thrown away so quickly and give work to local people to mend power consumption is also important, not just for customers' power bills, but also because of climate change. Our TVs are among the most power-intensive domestic items in the home because of the amount of power a TV and its related entertainment equipment uses, and how much time in a day we have them on. Sky has just brought out the Glass TV which they claim reduces the power consumption by a third, partly as they have put all the entertainment components into one box, and partly because the power drawn by this item is lower than comparable TVs. When looking at TVs, it is amazing how they vary in energy consumption. Generally, the bigger and more expensive a set, the greater the power consumption; I wonder, though, if the largest sets costing over £10,000 even consider efficiency! ...What can we do? When you buy a piece of equipment, look at the power consumption as well as the cost. Denise MacDonald-Kiernan Part 2 of Technology, Gadgets & Gizmos will follow in the June/July issue of the Gazette. Glenkens Gazette page 25 HEDGEHOG RESCUE Alison Bradley is based outside Carsphairn and runs a hedgehog rescue centre. Below is a little about what's involved in rescuing these wonderful prickly garden regulars, along with some tips for how to help your local hedgehogs. Spring is here and people are starting to tidy up their gardens. Please be mindful of wildlife when working and check carefully, especially hedgehogs, as untidy areas are their homes and they may still be in their winter sleep. If strimming, check long grass and leaves under hedges as this is often where hedgehogs get caught and injured. Slug pellets are another horror for hedgehogs; they eat the pellets as well as the poisoned slugs, killing the hogs in a slow and painful way. It would be great if more people tried other, wildlife-friendly ways to deter slugs - they do work. A family of hungry hogs in your garden is a much cheaper option than pesticides! Hegehogs are starting to come out of hibernation now and some will have just managed to survive over the winter, but upon waking are struggling to find enough food to build themselves up for the breeding season. These hogs can be quite weak and are already starting to be found and brought into the rescue centre - four have come in over the last two weeks. Something to note is that hedgehogs are strictly nocturnal and should never be out in daylight. The hog can look perfectly Seven five-day-old hoglets were brought in normal scurrying around as the mother had built her nest in a silo and looking for food, but were washed out when the silo was cleaned. this can be the start of a downward spiral which can result in its death. If you do find a hog back into the wild. Some do have to out during the day please take it in, stay as permanent residents as they put in a high-sided box (they are are blind or have lost a leg due to excellent escape artists) with a hot injury. At present I have 22 hogs in water bottle (not too hot) wrapped my care, six of which are permanent in an old towel (if you don’t have residents. I am always looking for a hot water bottle you can use a safe release sites as it may not be lemonade bottle filled with hot water) possible to release a hog back to and give me a ring - I am always where they were found. They come happy to give advice. Hedgehogs in their own release box which they will eat cat or dog food and small cat have lived in for a few weeks to biscuits. Also remember to supply a acclimatise to and all I ask is that low dish of water - please don’t give you put food out for a while to give milk as it causes enteritis. Peanuts, them a start in their new home. sultanas and sunflower seeds in small If you have a question about quantities are ok but do crush the hedgehogs, have found an peanuts as they can get them stuck injured hog or would like to offer across their palate, which can lead to a safe space for a hedgehog starvation. release you can get in touch with Most of my patients are released Alison on 07722 516 514. THE JOLLY STRIMMER (to be sung to the tune of The Jolly Miller) There was a jolly strimmer once Lived in the Glens of Ken He strimmed away from morn to night The noisiest of men And this the burden of his song Forever it will be I care for nobody, her nor him It’s strimming that makes me free To strim by night was his delight To strim by day his glee He thrashed with joy the flowers bright He scythed the infant tree And this the burden... He put the fledgling birds to flight He terrorised the bee The hedgehog’s brood he trashed with might. The spiders all did flee. And this the burden... His neighbours’ peace with zeal he breached He sowed discord around Their curses left him quite untouched He could not hear a sound And this the burden... Now Father Time his scythe has waved The strimmer’s sand has run The neighbours have the peace they craved The strimmer’s had his fun So this the burden of their song Forever more will be Let nature flourish safe and strong From strimming at last set free Anon Glenkens Gazette page 26 GLENKENS PLACE NAMES: PART XV In Glenkens Placenames XIV in the last issue of the Glenkens Gazette, I mentioned the odd looking placenames Petillery and Petiffers, both in Carsphairn parish. An attentive reader has quite correctly asked whether the ‘pet/pit elements might be outliers of the very common ‘pit’ place-names which are found in their hundreds mainly in east and northeast Scotland. There are 82 examples in Fife alone, examples being the wellknown Pittenweem in Fife and Pittodrie in Aberdeenshire. These eastern ‘pit’ place-names are often described as Pictish. These placenames are nearly all coined in Gaelic - pett was originally a Pictish word borrowed into Old Gaelic as pett. Indeed this place-name element appears five times in the earliest surviving Scottish Gaelic text, ie the notes appended to the 12th century Book of Deer. Often pett and baile place-names exhibit generic element variation in Gaelic forms of place-names. For example there is Pitlochry in Perthshire which nowadays is Baile Chloichridh in Gaelic (see Ainmean-Aite na h-Alba). Baile means a settlement, farm, village or even town with baile mòr signifying a city. The original Pictish meaning of pett seems to have been ‘land-holding or farm’. So back to the question from our alert reader. I would suggest that despite some historical references to the ‘Picts of Galloway’ it is unlikely that Picts as we would understand the use of the term in the east and north-east of Scotland were significantly present in Galloway. The attested Pictish kingdoms were essentially north of the Forth-Clyde valley and once covered all of the north including the outer Hebrides and the Orkney/Shetland Islands. Pictish was subsumed by Gaelic in the former and Norse in the latter. In pre-ninth century Galloway the Brittonic, Norse and Old English languages could be found, soon to be eclipsed by a thorough Gaelicisation. Professor William Watson in The Celtic Place-Names of Scotland wrote: "The population of Galloway was never Pictish, if by Picts we mean the real Picts – the early tribes of the far north of Scotland. Nor yet was it ever Pictish in the sense that it at any time came under Pictish rule or hegemony; it never formed part of Pictavia." Having said all that there are a couple of tantalising hints at Pictish connections with the south-west. The most transparently dramatic potential connection are the ‘Pictish’ symbols carved on the rock at the hillfort of Trusty’s Hill near Gatehouse (see lidar illustration below). The Galloway Picts Project (see www. gallowaypicts.com/gallowaypicts/results/ summary-report/ for the summary report) considers that the Pictish carvings could be genuine given they established occupation of the hill fort in the period fifth to seventh centuries AD but suggests that they are perhaps part of an ‘assemblage’ of features found at other hill forts such as Edinburgh and Dunadd in Argyll. In these places, as with Trusty’s Hill, there is an association of Pictish symbols with possible royal inauguration features such as rock-cut basins and entrance ways. Were the Pictish symbols seen as high-status art and therefore Laser scanned image of the Pictish symbols carved on a rock on Trusty’s Hill hill-fort near Gatehouse of Fleet. Image courtesty of The Galloway Picts Project https://gallowaypicts.com/ gallowaypicts transferred from Pictland proper to Galloway in the context of this royal dark age stronghold (if it was such rather than a ceremonial site)? The name Trusty’s Hill itself is interesting. It is reminiscent of the Pictish name Drost, which was the name of several Pictish kings. However before we get too excited by this correspondence it is as well to consider Alan James’ wise council in his Place-Names of the Fleet Valley online resource. I reproduce an extract here (for the full text see www. gatehouse-folk.org.uk): "Two stories about the place-name Trusty’s Hill (recorded by Maxwell, perhaps significantly, as ‘Trusty Knowe’ without the possessive ‘s) were current in the 19th century. The Ordnance Survey Name Book relates one that has the typical qualities of a folk-etymology: 'Formerly there had been a house at the base of the hill which had been occupied by a man named Carson who had married one of the minister’s servants, which servant the minister had always styled her as his Trusty Servant, from whom it is said the hill took its name'. The other, obviously an antiquarian speculation based on the apparently Pictish carvings near the summit, associated Trusty with a Pictish King Drust. Drust (in fact a Gaelic form for Pictish Drost) was the name of several rulers in Pictland, the one associated with the hill would be the king mentioned in an Irish account as the father of a princess named Drusticc, who was sent by his father to be educated at Whithorn by the then abbot, Mugint, and got up to some mischief that prompted Mugint to compose a hymn, ‘Spare us, Lord...’. Both these are delightful examples of stories made up to explain a place-name, but names are not created to suit stories, it is the other way around, both these yarns must have served to make sense of a pre-existing name. In the absence of any documentation for the name prior to the Ordnance Survey, any suggestion as to the real origin of the name can only be very tentative. Nevertheless, it is worth comparing it with the better-documented Trostrie, above. Trusty’s Hill might perhaps be another Brittonic formation with *traus-, though the generic in this case may have been -tī (Welsh tŷ) ‘a cottage, a small house’. *Traus- tī would suggest some building on the way through the narrow gap where a watch was kept, maybe some toll levied, on those passing through. If this were the case, the idea in the folketymology that the hill was named after an inhabitant of a modest building at its foot would not have been too far from the truth. So it is possible (though of course far from certain) that ‘Trusty’ was, like Trostrie, a strategic crossing-point on the ancient east-west routeway, and the hill was named after it." The other potential connection with Galloway Picts is a reference to a tribe of folk called the Creenies. This is in a book by Trotter, Robert de Bruce, 1877 - Galloway Gossip, or the Southern Albanich 60 Years Ago by Choppington, Northumberland. Ostensibly this seems to represent the Gaelic term Cruithnigh the plural of Cruithneach which is the Gaelic term for Pict. If we could trust Trotter then this just might represent a lingering folk memory of a people (by then speaking Gaelic) who migrated from Ulster and who were originally seen by the Irish as Picts. However I would take almost all that Trotter says with a pinch of salt. Suffice to say that I don’t think that Petillery or Pitiffers represent ‘Pictish’ place-names of the type found in the east of Scotland and I hope I can rest my case. I have strayed a bit from Glenkens place-names in this issue for which I crave your indulgence but I blame the person who asked such a complicated question in the first place! Michael Ansell, Cars Fèarna Glenkens Gazette page 27 NEW OWNERS FOR DALRY SHOP The Dalry shop and Post Office is due to change hands on 7 April, when the new owners Val and Bill Chalmers take over. I want to say a huge "thank you" to everyone who has supported the shop over the last nine years. I have found my time very enjoyable and rewarding, but am now looking forward to taking things a bit easier! Please come in and meet Val and Bill and give them your support. Best wishes, Lyndsay Photo of the Issue Sponsored by the Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Company This issue’s winner is Morag with a lovely view over the Rhinns of Kells. Morag wins two portions of mac and cheese from our competition sponsors, the Balmaclellan-based Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Co. Company owner and competition judge, Hannah Gould, said: "The Rhinns are so dramatic, and this really captures an air of mysticism as sunlight filters down over the hills - a really lovely shot." To enter you can send in any photograph taken in the Glenkens to glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Gordon McAdam N ew Galloway Golf Club Founded Foun ded 1902 www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk - 01644 420737 Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Plumbing & Heating HOUSE REPAIRS JOINERY 22 Kirkland Street St John’s Town of Dalry Semi-retired Furniture Maker & Builder in GLENKENS AREA 01644 430 393 07834 321 789 Call Pete on 07970 462 088 ...special rates for inclusion of tea, cake and friendly banter... Glenkens Gazette page 28 GAZETTE CROSSWORD This crossword is sponsored by Lancaster Wealth & Investment Management, with a prize of a £25 voucher for the Clachan Inn. Congratulations to Mary Blyth who won last issue's prize! 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 ACROSS DOWN 1 Short lyric poem that praises an individual, an idea, or an event (3) 2 The Philosophers Stone is said to contain the _______ to cure all diseases (6) 3 Widely held but false belief or idea (4) 3 Toni Collette’s hilarious title character in the 1994 Australian comedy-drama Þlm (6) 4 Beetle larvae (4) 6 Workman’s cutting tool (6) 4 Canadian actor, who starred in hit 2004 rom-com ÒThe Notebook”, Ryan _________ (7) 7 5 University Challenge host of 27 years, Jeremy _______ (6) Classic card game (5) 9 Feeling of happiness that something unpleasant has not happened (6) 6 Dry, scaly protective casing of the seeds of cereal grains (5) 11 Cheesy dish ßavoured usually with white wine (6) 8 Naturally occurring Þbre that was widely used in construction until the late 1990s (8) 12 City famous for super yachts and salad (4) 15 Abbreviation of the names Christopher or Katherine (3) 16 DC Comics superhero “Green ___________” (7) 17 Dvořák’s Largo (New World Symphony) was used in this companyÕs well-loved 1970Õs advert (5) 10 What does this stereo button symbol mean ⏏ ? (5) 13 Form of role-playing game where the participants physically portray their characters - Acronym (4) 14 Homer SimpsonÕs catch-phrase - ______! (3) Chance to win £25 in vouchers for The Clachan Inn, Dalry Complete the crossword above and solve the anagram of the letters in the green boxes. Send the winning word to philip.lancaster@sjpp.co.uk and a winner will be chosen at random. Good luck! Glenkens Gazette page 29 Mull of Galloway to John o' Groats Fundraising Challenge Iain Munro, originally from Perth, is now based at the Galloway Activity Centre by Loch Ken. Iain in front of one of Scotland's charity air ambulance helicopters. sounded like a really worthwhile cause." Iain began his journey on 9 March, and is walking the whole route carrying his own tent and supplies, aiming to complete the journey within 25 days because it takes 25 minutes or the Air Ambulance to reach 90% of Scotland. If you would like to donate Iain’s Fundraising Challenge go to JustGiving and search MoG2Jog. WINDY STANDARD WIND FARM COMMUNITY UPDATE Fred Olsen Renewables is proud to be developing and operating wind farms across Scotland for over 25 years. Windy Standard Wind Farm was our first operational project in Scotland and has allowed us the opportunity to build up close relationships with suppliers in and around the region – allowing us to deliver economic benefits locally through job creation and investment. We look forward to continuing these partnerships as we move forwards with our proposals for the repowering of Windy Standard Wind Farm and also the construction of Windy Standard III. However, we are also always keen to meet with new suppliers and learn about the services that they can provide as part of our supply chain. Please get in touch with suppliers@fredolsen.co.uk to find out more. Advertisement Iain will be walking from the Mull of Galloway to John O’ Groats - the entire length of Scotland, which is around 460 miles - to raise funds and awareness for Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance and for Jeffrey’s Biker Journey. "I grew up in Perth only a couple of miles from the Scone airport where one of the air ambulance helicopters is based," says Iain. "Right from when Scotland's charity air ambulance started in 2013 I would look up every time I heard a helicopter in the hope to see it. "When I moved away from Perth I lived in mainly remote areas and with the air ambulance I have the peace of mind knowing that if needed help is not far away. "I found out about Jeffrey's Biker Journey in July 2021 whist I was self isolating. I was scrolling through Facebook and I came across a post about a UK-wide relay ride to raise awareness of Batten disease and to help Jeffrey, a five-yearold boy who had been diagnosed with Batten disease earlier in 2021. I thought it Glenkens Gazette Plants and Cakes St Margaret’s Church, on Kenbridge Road in New Galloway, is hosting a plant and cake sale on Saturday 7 May to raise funds for Dumfries & Galloway Blood Bikes. From 10am to 12 noon, a wide selection of herbaceous plants, flower and veg seedlings and house plants will be for sale in front of the church, all lovingly grown in local gardens. At the same time, delicious home-baking will be for sale inside the church, and teas and coffees will also be on offer. The sale is being organised by St Margaret’s Guild and all proceeds from the sale will be given to Dumfries & Galloway Blood Bikes, a charity set up by local volunteers to deliver essential blood Hi, I love reading your Gazette and wish I lived in the New Galloway area - I'll be coming back soon! Best wishes, Steve, Nottingham page 30 and urgent medical supplies between NHS hospitals and healthcare sites in Dumfries and Galloway. The charity is entirely dependent on donations and run by volunteers who receive no compensation for their time or costs. The service is provided free of charge to the NHS, ensuring limited resources can be used where most needed. Christine Rankin, President of St Margaret’s Guild, explains: “We have always been supporters of Dumfries & Galloway Blood Bikes and we are particularly conscious that the rise in fuel costs will hit them hard. We hope as many as possible will join us on 7 May to help raise much needed funds”. Retirement of Rev David Bartholomew This is a preliminary notice to inform members of the Glenkens communities that the Rev David Bartholomew is retiring as Minister of the parishes of Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Dalry, and Kells at the end of July. His last service will be in Dalry Church on 31 July. The church elders are planning to have an event in Dalry Town Hall after the service and there will be a presentation at 12.30pm, followed by a light buffet lunch to which all will be welcome. David has touched the lives of many people in the community over the 27 years of his ministry here, and there will be a collection for people to show their appreciation. Contributions can be given to session clerk Ian Knox (on 01644 430 529 or 07840 506 516) or to any church elder. Won't Someone Read Me? APRIL 23 I sit here on a shelf, jammed shoulder to shoulder with others in the local interest section of Dalry Library. THE GALLOWAY PLAYERS St. John’s Town of Dalry Town Hall Saturday April 23rd 4 pm - 5 pm Galloway’s own Flute and Guitar Duo performing a beautiful mixture of Bach, Celtic music, and Italian Classical repertoire. Not to be missed! Entry by donation (suggested £5) thegallowayplayers@gmail.com We have stories to tell, but no-one has read me for five years. My stories are not online, you won’t find them with Google – you need to check me out! Tuesday 8 March was International Women’s Day and Scotland’s First Minister apologised for the way that so-called witches were persecuted in the past; still, no-one came to read the real stories. Who am I? Ghosts and Witchcraft in Dumfries & Galloway... PARTON PHOTO COMPETITION This year's photo competition has the theme of 'trees'. Please submit entries to partonphoto2022@gmail.com or on Facebook at @partonvillagescotland Photos will be displayed in the village over the Jubilee weekend. Glenkens Gazette GLENKENS GLASS RECYCLING POINTS • Balmaclellan Stores, Balmaclellan • Memorial Hall, St Michael's Road, Crossmichael page 31 Sports in Dalry Outdoor Bowls (from April) - for details contact Jim Hutchinson on 01644 430 639 Table Tennis (available 24/7) Snooker (available 24/7) Indoor Bowls (October to March) Badminton (available 24/7) For details for table tennis, snooker, indoor bowls and badminton contact Gary Blissett on 01644 430 521. • Kirkland Street, St John's Town of Dalry CROSSMICHAEL THERAPY CENTRE • New Galloway, Carson's Knowe Car Park - Your Health is Important - • St David Street, Kirkpatrick Durham For details of other recycling points visit www.dumgal.gov. uk/wasterecycling - follow the ‘Recycling Points in the Community’ link. There is also a ‘Find My Nearest’ tool that enables you to find a range of local services, including recycling points. ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is probably best known for its treatment of pain. However, they can be used to treat a broader variety of conditions, from achy joints to anxiety, skin troubles to insomnia, acupuncture could help change the way you manage some of life’s health challenges. Matthew Pajo has been studying and practising Chinese medicine for over 25 years and has attained a Bachelor Health Science and Master Applied Science in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. As a highly skilled and trusted clinician, Matthew uses safe, effective, and natural treatments that can bring relief from acute and chronic conditions. Matthew is a member of the British Acupuncture Federation and the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians. To make an appointment call 07786 079 845 or email info@matthewpajo.co.uk For more information visit www.matthewpajo.co.uk Psychological Therapy Amber Dunlop-Pajo has spent over 20 years working as a psychologist and has attained a Bachelor Psychology (Hons) and Master Psychology (Health) and is a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society. Amber specialises in Women’s Health as well as depression, stress, anxiety and has a focus on health psychology. Contact Amber on 07389 713 106 or info@gallowaycounselling.co.uk For more information visit www.gallowaycounselling.co.uk Crossmichael Therapy Centre, The Old School, Crossmichael, DG7 3AP 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS General Medical & Dispensing Services FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY The Surgery High Street New Galloway Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm Sat 2-2.30 pm Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm  01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS  FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 Glenkens Gazette The Community Kindness Cupboard outside Dalry Library has home baking in every Thursday. page 32 WHERE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB LISTINGS Dumfries & Galloway! What's Going on @DGWGO on Facebook; What's Going On Glenkens @WGOGlenkens on Facebook; Glenkens Gazette @GlenkensNews on Facebook – once on the page for any of these, use the search function to look for jobs. The Glenkens' largest employer, Natural Power Consultants Ltd, also have a jobs page - www.naturalpower.com/uk/careers KEY GLENKENS CONTACTS LOCAL DOCTORS’ SURGERY Glenkens Medical Practice - 01644 420 234 COMMUNITY CONTACTS • Balmaclellan: Martin Warnock 07939 261 391 • Carsphairn: Liz Holmes - 07718 358 160 • Corsock: Julie Garton - 07769 647 702 • Kirkpatrick Durham: Heather 07551 639 629 • Crossmichael: Richard Middleton 01556 670 691 • Dalry: Graham West - 01644 430 503 • Mossdale: Shop - 01644 450 281 • New Galloway: Hayley Edgar 07741 656 601 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 FOOD DELIVERIES • Galloway Foodbank - 07730 788 335 • Hidden Veg - www. openfoodnetwork.org.uk/hiddenveg/shop • Ballards Butchers - 01556 502502 (they also deliver groceries) • Grierson’s Butchers: 01556 502 637 • Henderson’s Butchers: 01556 502 654 • Mitchell’s Greengrocers: 01556 502 077 • Fleet Fish: order before 1pm on Mondays for delivery the following week. Delivery days can be found when ordering at www.fleet-fish. co.uk or call 07966 103 912 • Roan’s Dairy - 01556 620 374 LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Glenkens Community Shop: Contact Liz Lewis on 07530 804 217 or drop by the shop on Main Street, Dalry Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact Ros Hill at ros.hill@rathanhouse.co.uk Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail.com or 01644 430 521 Dalry Town Hall: Contact Lesley Blissett at lesleyblissett52@gmail.com Glenkens Community Centre: Contact Carylann Williamson at williamsoncarylann@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact ngce5000@gmail.com or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins at julia.higgins55@outlook.com CatStrand: Contact Fiona Limbrey at fiona@catstrand. com or 01644 420 374 or pop in to the CatStrand Schools: Visit the school office or call Dalry Primary on 01644 430 105 (for Nursery/ELC too), Dalry Secondary on 01644 430 259 or Kells on 01644 420 340 Carsphairn Heritage Group: carsphairnheritagegroup@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie at mcnabb.laurie@dumgal.gov.uk If you would like to add your community organisation to this list please get in touch with the Gazette - contact details are on the back page. CHURCH TIMES CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: Sunday Services Balmaclellan: 11am - 3 Apr & 1 May Carsphairn: 11am - 10 Apr, 8 May & 29 May Kells: 11am - 17 Apr & 15 May Dalry: 11am - 24 Apr & 22 May Special Services Soup & Sweet Lunch, 2 Apr, 12.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Good Friday Service, 15 Apr, 7.30pm, Dalry Church Easter Dawn Service, 17 Apr, 7am, New Galloway Park Easter Breakfast, 17 Apr, 7.30am, New Galloway Town Hall Communion, 1 May, 11am, Balmaclellan Church Conventicle 8th May, 3 pm, Carsphairn Churchyard Local Church of Scotland congregations can be accessed on YouTube under ‘Balmaclellan, Kells and Dalry linked with Carsphairn’ or can be emailed. Contact David on 01644 430 380 for paper or email copies, or simply for a chat. St Margaret's Church, Kenbridge Road, New Galloway, DG7 3RP Sundays: 10.30am Sung Eucharist, followed by coffees/teas Visitors are always welcome - for further information, including directions, please see our website www. stmargaretsnewgalloway.org or call our vestry secretary, Christine Rankin, on 01644 420 259. Glenkens Gazette page 33 GALLOWAY COMMUNITY TRANSPORT www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org email gct@catstrand.com phone 01644 420374 mobile 07841 512449 April - May 2022 Regular Services GK2 Glenkens-Castle Douglas (Tesco) Wednesday Evenings Out (Registered Route) JOIN US Return 19:00 Dalry (Underhill) 21:15 19:05 New Galloway 21:10 19:15 Mossdale 21:00 19:25 Laurieston 20:50 19:30 Townhead of Greenlaw 20:47 19:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 20:37 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:35 Booking not required Glenkens to Newton Stewart Fortnightly - Tuesday mornings Outward Pickups: Dalry (Underhill) 09:30 New Galloway (Town Hall) 09:35 CatStrand) 09:37 To Merrick Leisure Centre and Aldi Return Pickup Newton Stewart (Aldi Car Park) 11:30 Return fare £3.50 GCT Ebike Club Drop-In Launch Advance booking required. Member Hire GCT has 16-, 15-, and 8-seater minibuses and a fully wheelchair accessible electric car available for hire by community organisations. For information about membership and terms and conditions of hire see the GCT website or phone 07841 512449. CatStrand, New Galloway Saturday 2 April, 13:00-15:00 drop in to see the ebikes, meet the team and hear more about the club. If you can’t join us at the launch but are interested in the GCT Ebike Club please see www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org/ebikes phone 07704 662925 or email jon@catstrand.com Cycle Training Like to try an ebike, join a group cycle ride, brush up your cycling skills? Try a free 1 to 1 confidence-building session with local Sustrans Senior Development Officer, Annick Larogue. CatStrand, New Galloway Thursdays from 10am For further information/ booking email annick.larogue@sustrans.org.uk or call/text 07824 863032 Sustrans is a registered charity in Scotland (SC069263) and in England and Wales (326550) Drivers Needed Galloway Community Transport needs your help to provide a wide range of community transport services across the Stewartry and beyond. MINIBUS DRIVING Minibus drivers with D1 (101 or by test) are needed to do volunteer and paid driving for our wide range of member community groups. PATIENT TRANSPORT We also urgently need drivers with their own cars for our patient transport service. Our volunteer patient transport drivers receive a generous mileage reimbursement and the satisfaction of providing a vital service to vulnerable people in our communities. Interested? Email gct@catstrand.com or phone 07841 512449 Glenkens Gazette page 34 What's On April/May APRIL Sat 2, A Squatter o' Bairnsangs, 7pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Sun 3, Community Tree Planting & Launch of Photo Comp, 11am, Parton Village Hall (includes refreshments) Wed 6, Our Carnal Hearts, 7.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Thu 7, Clare Hammond, 7.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Fri 8, Storytime & Crafts, 11.30am-1pm, Dalry Library Sat 9, Puppet Animation Festival: Nettles in the Garden Travelling Shadow Theatre + Workshop, 2.30pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn Sat 9 (then every Tue for 5 weeks), Songwriting Course, 12-18yrs, CatStrand, New Galloway Sat 9, Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall Mon 11 - Fri 15, DG Dance Weekender Intensive Easter Week, 10.30am-4pm, Dumfries - transport can be provided Mon 11, After Noguchi Paper Sculpture Workshop, 12noon-1.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway through www.gcat.scot or on the door, Dalry Town Hall Sat 30, Visiting the Green Well of Scotland, 1.30pm; a visit to the well, near Carsphairn, booking essential at www.eventbrite.co.uk Wed 13, When the Sparks Fly: Two Iron Working Sites Around Loch Ken, 7.30pm, online event - book at www. eventbrite.co.uk MAY Thu 14, Eco Art with IRose Studios, 12noon-2pm, under 10yrs, CatStrand, New Galloway Wed 4, David Scheel: Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player, 7.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Thu 14, Ken Words: Glenkens Writer's Café, 7pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Wed 11, Film Night: Harriet, 7pm, tickets through www. gcat.scot or on the door, Dalry Town Hall Fri 15, Puppet Animation Festival@:Odd Socks by Nikki Kalkma, 3pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Sat 16, Puppet Animation Festival: Seedheart, 2.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Thu 12, Ken Words: Glenkens Writer's Café, 7pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Sat 14, Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 16, Illustrate!, 2-4pm, 11yrs+, Smiddy, Balmaclellan Tue 17, Rapture Bites: A Number, 1pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Sun 17, The Rheingans Sisters, 7.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Wed 18, Siobhan Miller, 7.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Sun 17, Arts a& Crafts Fair, 11am-3pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 21, Vanishing Point presents The Metamorphosis: Unplugged, 7.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Sat 23, Better Lives Partnership Bridge to Creative Project – Art in the Community, 1pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Sat 23,The Galloway Players, 4-5pm, Dalry Town Hall Tue 12, Wee Mousie - Taster Theatre Workshop, 12noon1pm (8-11yrs) & 1-3pm (12yrs+), CatStrand, New Galloway Tue 26, A Historical Treasure Trail in Maps: Buying Up and Selling Out in the Age of Improvement, 7.30pm - A ‘hybrid’ event, book at www. eventbrite.co.uk to attend online or in person, at the Balmaclellan Smiddy Wed 13, Film Night: House of Gucci, 7pm, tickets Thu 28, Ken Words: Online Writer's' Café, 7pm Sun 22, Afternoon Concert, Dalry Town Hall, contact anne.chaurand@btinternet. com Fri 27, Pop-up Café, 10am12pm; teas, coffees cakes and blether, payment by donation, Dalry Town Hall, contact vickileelucas01@ gmail.com Sat 28 (4pm) & Sun 29 (11am), Starcatchers & Andy Cannon present 'Spike! A Dinosaur Caper', CatStrand, New Galloway Glenkens Gazette page 35 REGULAR EVENTS Balmaclellan Village Hall: Tuesday Afternoon Teas, first Tues every month, to book email julia.higgins55@outlook.com Glenkens Crafters, Wed 10am2.30pm, for info contact Julia Higgins on 01644420297 Books in Balmaclellan Community Library, Mon 6-7pm, Wed 10am–12.30pm & Sat 10.30am-12.30pm Glenkens Art Group, Thur afternoons, contact Tom Leach on t_leach1@sky.com Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn: Craft Group, Fri 10am12noon,includes tea & coffee, Lagwyne Hall Bairn Banter; family stay & play session, 0-7 years, Sat 10-11.45am, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn CatStrand, New Galloway: Margaret Morris Movement: Health Play (age 3-7), Mon (during term time), 3.454.30pm Margaret Morris Movement: Children’s Grades & Youth Dance (age 8-15), Mon (during term time), 4.30-5.30pm Youth Volunteers (age 10+), last Mon of the month, 5.30– 7.30pm Scriptless Drama Club (age 11-19), Tue, 5.30–6.30pm Newton Stewart Bus Service to Tesco, Wednesday evenings A Chance to Dance, Thu biweekly, 6–8pm Dance Weekenders (age 12+), Sat - monthly, 1–4pm Art Explorers, Sat - fortnightly, 10-11am (age 5–8) & 11.15am– 12.30pm (age 8–12) CatStrand Youth Players, meet weekly to work on festival plays and an annual pantomime, contact briangm@catstrand.com New Galloway Town Hall: Crafty Corner with tea & biscuits, Mon 2-4pm, contact Kristina on 07789 680468 LING Lunches, Tue, Elevenses 11am & lunches from 12.302pm. No need to book, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Sports Evenings with indoor bowling and table tennis, Tues 7-9pm, drop in or contact Ray on 01644 420 438 Drop-in to chat about local plans and activities with Hayley Edgar, Community Engagement Worker, Wed 1011am Tai Chi, Wed 10.3011.30am, includes coffee & biscuits, contact Ju-lie gentletaichigroup@gmail.com Zumba, Wed 6.30-7.20pm & 7.25-8.15pm, contact samantha. Dalry Library & Customer Service Centre Main Street, Dalry, Tel: 01644 430 234 or 01556 502 643 Tuesday: For books and other walk-in services: 2-5pm Friday: For NEC Bus Pass and Blue Badge appointments and PCs: 11.30am – 12.30pm; for books and other walk-in services: 1 -4.30pm. Appointments can be booked in the library or on 01387 260 196. rushton@hotmail.co.uk (booking essential) Martial Arts for Children, Thur 5.40-6.30pm (children) & 7-9pm (age 6 and up), contact Brian or Nancy on Facebook KMANews or kmabrian@gmail.com Gentle Yoga, Fri 5.30-6.30pm, contact kathyr64@hotmail.co.uk Informal Family Badminton, (net and racquets but no line markings), New Galloway Town Hall, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Dalry Library Random Writers (age 12+), Thu bi-weekly, Dalry Library, 3.45–5pm Dalry Town Hall Tai Chi, video-led instruction, Mon, 2-3pm, contact lesleyblissett52@gmail.com Dog Training, Tue, 7pm, contact Eric Broadhurst 07831 590 822 Film Nights, Wed, see listings opposite CatStrand Singers, Thu, 11am-12.30pm, contact anne. chaurand@btinternet.com Song Share, 1st Friday each mont, 8-11pm, contact anne. chaurand@btinternet.com Glenkens Producers Market, 2nd Sat each month, 10am1pm, contact lesleyblissett52@ gmail.com USEFUL NUMBERS: ● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000 ● Police, non-emergency: 101 ● Doctor: 01644 420 234 ● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24 ● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000 Glenkens Gazette Are you UKRAINE FUNDRAISER considering Local lad Gavin McGhie is raising funds for the people of Ukraine. offering a home to people forced to leave Ukraine? Gavin says: "I was driving to work one day and decided I wanted to do something to help, and started thinking what I could do." On 17 March, Gavin and his brother Frank walked a 60-mile loop of the Galloway Forest Park in 22 hours without stopping. page 36 Massive Outpouring Of Love (MOOL), an organisation in D&G which was set up to support refugees, are coordinating refugee hosts in the region. Gavin and Frank reaching Clatteringshaws at daybreak. Money raised will go to the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal. At the time of going to press, the figure is at £2,760 and it's growing all the time. Support Gavin's fundraising campaign and send in your donations - the page will stay upen until 17 April - www.gofund.me/fc695b57 MOOL are offering Zoom meetings for help and advice and have an area coordinator who can be contacted at castledouglas@mool.scot if you would like to find out more. Job Opportunities in the Glenkens Local Initiatives in New Galloway have vacancies for the following freelance positions to help increase resources, opportunities and resilience in our community. Project Officer - Town Hall Renovations 15 hrs p/w (flexible), £20 p/hr, fixed term 9 months Events, Activities & Inclusion Manager 20 hrs p/w (flexible), £17.50 p/hr, fixed term 2 years Youth Activity & Development Worker – Glenkens 9 hrs p/w (flexible), £12-£15 p/hr, fixed term 1 year For more details and how to apply, please see www.newgallowaytownhall.com or scan the QR code: We are keen to encourage a wide range of applicants and warmly invite anyone interested to contact us with questions or for an informal chat - email us at newgallowaytownhall@gmail.com AFROCELT SOUND SYSTEM NEWEN AFROBEAT L'ENTOURLOOP | PLUMP DJS MUNGOS HI FI SOUND SYSTEM ROSS AINSLIE & ALI HUTTON'S SYMBIOSIS LOWKEY | THE POOZIES | KEL ASSOUF MOISHES BAGEL | CALLUM EASTER NOVA | TINDERBOX ORCHESTRA DON KIPPER | TWELFTH DAY AN DANNSA DUB | SAMSON SOUNDS ZOE BESTEL | FEHDAH DUB STUY | DOLPHIN BOY & MANY MORE The closing date for all posts is 18th April 2022 In partnership with Glenkens & District Trust WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Editing & Design: sarah.ade@gmail.com JUN/JUL COPY DEADLINE: 5 MAY The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No. SC032050  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 129 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_129 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource GCAT Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2022 Description An account of the resource Editor: Sarah Ade https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/275/GlenkensGazette128.pdf eadf2371bd291e0e26c048a4bbba9d82 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 128 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Corsock, Crossmichael, Kirkpatrick Durham, Laurieston, Mossdale, New Galloway, Parton and St John’s Town of Dalry February/March 2022 ISSUE 128 FREE WATSON BIRD TRAILS LAUNCHED Two new Glenkens walking routes are now signposted in celebration of local bird artist Donald Watson, who lived and worked in Dalry. Both trails have their starting point at Dalry Town Hall garden, where there is a sign explaining the Watson Birds project and maps of the Walking Trail and the Art Trail. The Walking Trail around Dalry takes around two hours and follows one of the Glenkens Core Paths along the river bank. After crossing the main road by Boat Knowe, the path climbs the Mulloch Hill before meandering back into the village. The Art Trail can be done by bicycle or car - users should allow around half a day for this route, although it's shorter in winter as the section through the Raider’s Road is closed. An app will soon be available to accompany the trails, narrated by local bird expert Chris Rollie. This commentary aims to provide an insight into Donald’s art and observational skills, as well as highlighting what you might expect to see at different times of the year. Watch this space for more on the app launch! It is hoped that people using the trails will engage creatively in whatever way they choose - through The new Watson Bird Trails brochure, available to poem, prose, music, download online or from local retail outlets. drawing, painting or photographs - and that these will form part of Room at The Smiddy in Balmaclellan. an exhibition in the summer. The Watson Birds project is a Glenkens Brochures for the trails can be Community & Arts Trust initiative, downloaded at www.watsonbirds.org or supported by the Galloway Glens are available at local shops. There is an scheme and Blackcraig Wind Farm exhibition about the trails in the Watson Community Benefit Fund. Wild Swimming The popularity of wild swimming is booming, and in the Glenkens we are privileged to enjoy accessible, clear waters. Loch Ken boasts some of cleanest loch waters in Scotland, probably due to the hydro system releasing a fresh flow regularly. Having been a wild swimmer in my childhood in France I was keen to reconnect with those pleasures when I moved to Dalry eight years ago, but it took me a while to discover local swimming spots. Friends who grew up here told me of their exploits jumping off rocks at the High Bridge of Ken. My days of such youthful daring have long gone, though I am glad to see some local youngsters still taking the plunge! Continued on page 16... A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 End of an Era for Brian Jones and Chris Jowsey’s tenure at GCAT’s Connecting in Communities (CiC) project has come to an end, after a combined 12 years of community service - Brian eight and Chris four. The project continues though in Fiona Limbrey’s capable hands, with help from the other GCAT staff. However, the boys leave behind a fantastic legacy for the Glenkens from both the original Connecting in Retirement project and ongoing CiC projects. Nothing ever runs smoothly without a huge amount of hard work, dedication, determination and support from all sides. So, we’d like to say a massive "thank you" to everyone involved over the years, especially the volunteers, who have made everything we do so successful. We must also thank our core funders without whom there would have been no CiC: The Big Lottery (Play makes it possible), the Scottish Government LEADER programme, the Postcode Lottery and the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP), plus many other silent contributors. We have also developed a lot of partnerships along the way, not just locally but with national organisations like Age Scotland, Visibility Scotland, Dementia Friends, Third Sector Dumfries & Galloway, Sleeping Giants, Better Lives Partnership, Ability Scotland, Generations Working Together and one of our stalwarts, the IT Centre in CD, to name but a few. Just to be clear, CiC hasn’t ended, it's just that some of the team are moving on - the project continues to go on and will, we are sure, reach even greater heights! If you want to see what has been achieved to date, take a trip to Balmaclellan and look at the Smiddy and Men’s Shed - two establishments that are the envy of the country and neither would be there without CiC and the GCAT team! Come inside and look at the giant screen and fabulous IT kit, then look at the 7-seat electric vehicle in the carpark – many thanks again to LEADER and GGLP. Wander round the back of CatStrand and gaze upon the huge ‘Hope London’-inspired mural or check out the ‘Youth Chris and Brian receiving VOSCARS. Booth’ blue phone box at New Galloway - both intergenerational their “What have the Romans done for projects between CiC and CatStrand us?” video; both getting VOSCARS; Youth Arts. Rocktober (featuring FM, the loudest band ever to play CatStrand and Brian and Chris were instrumental to giving local youngsters Pure Silver, the communitiy during the pandemic, their first real gig), plus hosting gigs and determined to ensure that the for Kiki Dee and rock legend Eric Bell. CIC project provided digital online activities and events that would help Brian said: “The last eight years the community to stay in touch. working in the Glenkens has been a tremendous part of my life. I’ve met some fantastic and gifted people, made many new lifelong friends and enjoyed working with some talented GCAT staff members. It was a hard decision to make to move on but I will not be riding over the hill into the The CiC legacy isn’t just physical sunset and will continue to take part - we leave behind also many in CiC activities and become a GCAT established groups and abiding volunteer.” memories. Glenkens Men’s Shed Chris said: “I’d like say thank(the first in Dumfries & Galloway), you once again to everyone who the CatStrand Uke Band with its sellhelped make CiC such a phenomenal out concerts raising monies for local success, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my and national charities, photography time with GCAT”. and writing groups, Tai-Chi, yoga, Stay safe, IT support, Knit & Blether - the list The CiC Team goes on. One we are really proud of is JPFitness, supported from an ad-hoc For further information on CiC session in the park to a thriving five projects you can get in touch with times a week fitness business. Fiona on 01644 420 274 or fiona@ Other highlights include the LEADER catstrand.com awards featuring Brian and Chris in Just to be clear, CiC hasn’t ended, it's just that some of the team are moving on - the project continues to go on and will, we are sure, reach even greater heights! Glenkens Gazette page 3 TED COWAN: 1944 - 2022 Ted Cowan died on Sunday 2 January at his home in Balmaclellan parish after a short illness. He was 77. A Scottish historian with an international reputation, he was also a champion of the history of Galloway and an ardent promoter of the Glenkens and its story. He was emeritus professor of Scottish History and Literature at Glasgow University and had previously taught at Guelph University in Canada. He was latterly director of the Crichton University Campus in Dumfries. A long-standing supporter of Scottish independence, he was a leading authority on the Declaration of Arbroath but his interests were wide-ranging, from the Vikings to the story of Scottish emigration. His work was underpinned by a conviction that history was nothing without an understanding of the role of ordinary people. His regular contributions to the Gazette reflected the depth, breadth and eclectic curiosity of his commitment to local history. A larger than life character in every way, he was a redoubtable raconteur, passionate in argument, an enthusiastic contrarian and a droll and warmhearted friend. Born in Edinburgh, he was brought up in Dumfries and always identified as a Doonhamer. His first wife, Alison, died in 1994. He is survived by their three children, Karen, Morna and David. In 2004 he married Lizanne Henderson, a fellow historian. A full appreciation of Ted and his contribution to the life of Galloway and the Glenkens will be published in the next edition of the Gazette. He will be sorely missed. GALLOWAY TOPS NATIONAL PARK POLL Galloway has emerged as the clear winner in a vote to choose Scotland’s next national park. The on-line poll organised by the Scots Magazine featured seven potential locations for a proposed third park. Galloway scooped more than half the votes, outstripping support for the other six candidates combined. Galloway received 1250 votes, 51% of the total and well ahead of nearest rivals, Borders with 19% and Argyll on 12%. The remaining areas - Ben Nevis/ Glencoe, Glen Affric, Wester Ross and Harris each returned single figure percentages. Rob Lucas, chairman of the Galloway National Parks Association, has welcomed David Tallontire CHIMNEY SWEEP Covering the Glenkens & further afield 07709 144 299 - wood burners - multi-fuel stoves - open fires - Agas - Rayburns - birds nest removal with CCTV inspection - certificates issued - feel free to call for advice - Find me on Facebook 唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀Ⰰ 䰀漀漀猀攀 䌀漀瘀攀爀猀Ⰰ 䘀愀戀爀椀挀猀Ⰰ 䌀甀猀栀椀漀渀猀 刀攀昀椀氀氀攀搀 䘀爀攀攀 䔀猀琀椀洀愀琀攀猀 吀栀攀 圀漀爀欀猀栀漀瀀Ⰰ 䴀漀渀礀戀甀椀攀Ⰰ 䌀漀爀猀漀挀欀⸀ 䐀䜀㜀 ㌀䐀夀 眀眀眀⸀䠀愀爀爀椀猀ⴀ唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀 ㄀㘀㐀㐀 㐀㐀 㔀㈀㤀 the result as a clear indication of enthusiasm for Galloway’s claim. The news comes ahead of a scheduled meeting with Lorna Slater, MSP, the minister responsible for recommending which area should be granted national park status. Mr Lucas said: “We look forward to meeting the minister and making our case in the spring. There is clearly a real ground swell of support.” Glenkens Gazette page 4 Join the Community Action Plan Steering Group You may already have heard of the Glenkens and District Community Action Plan – a set of actions that the Glenkens communities set as their priorities in 2020. The Action Plan was commissioned by the Glenkens and District Trust (GDT) to start setting out which projects or plans local people want to see happening in our area. The overall goal of the Action Plan is that this will be a connected, resilient and carbon neutral place, where people will want to live, to work, to bring up their families and to grow old. The next stage is to evolve the Community Action Plan Steering Group, originally set up by GDT, to sit within the community and be the custodian of the Action Plan. It will be nine people, of all life experiences and interests from across our communities, who will review progress against the Plan, suggest interventions if some actions aren’t getting done, and ensure that the Action Plan remains up-to-date and relevant as our communities change. few hours every couple of months for pre-reading and meeting attendance, then this could be of real interest to you. It’s open to everyone from across the Glenkens and wider district, which goes down both sides of Loch Ken as far as Bridge of Dee, Corsock and Kirkpatrick Durham, and it’s important that the nine members represent the geographical breadth of the area as well as a variety of life experiences and interests. The recent new role of GCAT Executive Manager, held by Helen Keron, includes a remit to support this group by ensuring that the actions they request are carried out, which means the group will be able to make a real difference in the area. There are five places currently available as this group gets going, so if you have an interest in seeing stuff get done and can spare a If you’d like to know more, visit www.glenkenstrust.org.uk/getinvolved for the 'Terms of Reference' of the Steering Group, or contact Fiona Smith (Chair of GDT) for an informal chat about the role on Fiona.smith1@btinternet.com. The deadline for applications to join is 28 February 2022. You can view the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan at www.glenkenstrust.org.uk/ community-action-plan ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY SCANNING Dairy & Sucklers; Ageing, Twin & Barren Detection. Trailer system includes triplets, marking and shedding. Pregnancy and number of pups. For bookings and info: Duncan Kennedy 07860 474001 dk@passcan.co.uk www.passcan.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 5 Glenkens & District Community Action Plan Do you want our communities to be the best that they can be? Are you a new resident, or have you been here for years? Old hand at committees, or new to community development? You should consider joining the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan Steering Group! The Steering Group is the custodian of the Community Action Plan and will ensure that the actions get carried out and that the plan remains relevant to us all. All are welcome on this exciting new group. There are 5 spaces currently available, open to people from across the Glenkens and district of all ages and with all life experiences and interests. For more info, see www.glenkenstrust.org.uk/community-action-plan Or contact Fiona Smith (Chair of Glenkens and District Trust) for an informal chat about the role on Fiona.smith1@btinternet.com Application deadline 28th February 2022. GLENKENS HOUSING SURVEY Glenkens District Trust (GDT)and South of Scotland Community Housing (SOSCH) are working together to assess housing needs and demands across the area. The online survey has been open since December, and we are keen to hear from people who have experienced issues identifying suitable accommodation that is affordable to them in the Glenkens and wider district. Whether renting or buying, relocating or returning to the area, we ask that you take a few moments to fill out the survey and have your voice heard. This information will help us to understand the bigger housing picture, and develop plans for the future that meet the needs of those who would wish to live here. You can access the survey by scanning the QR link below or online at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ GlenkensHousingSurvey If you would like a paper copy, or have any questions, please contact Stacy on 07902 714 340 or stacy.sosch@outlook. com Stacy Bradley-Davidson, SOSCH Glenkens Gazette page 6 Glenkens - Producers' Market Shop online: www.ballardsbutchers.co.uk Email: shop@ballardsbutchers.co.uk Tel: 01556 502 501 Free Local Delivery Tues & Fri (orders over £20) 2nd Saturday Monthly Wide Variety of Local Produce Butcher Meat Fruit & Veg Milk & Bread Available to order Dalry Town Hall, 10am-1pm - 12th February & 12th March - Click & Collect online with the Glenkens Food Hub at https:// openfoodnetwork.org.uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop or just visit us on the day - for further details call 07776 034 260 entry by donation on the door (15 miles from Castle Douglas on A713) Leave a legacy... inheritance tax planning, don’t leave it too late. Call or email to arrange a friendly chat or face-to-face appointment. Inheritance tax planning is about passing the proceeds of an estate to chosen beneficiaries rather than to HMRC. 1 Tynemouth Road, Tynemouth, NE30 4AY MOBILE: 07983 700844 EMAIL: philip.lancaster@sjpp.co.uk Lancaster Wealth & Investment Management | Associate Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management Lancaster Wealth & Investment Management is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Glenkens Gazette National Planning Framework Consultation Have Your Say... The government is currently consulting on National Planning Framework 4, a long-term plan that sets out where development and infrastructure is needed in an area. In practical terms, the document will have an influence on things like transport networks, tourism, decarbonisation, renewable energy and electricity infrastructure development, forestry, natural capital and land use change. It will guide national planning policies, designate national developments and highlight regional spatial priorities. The Framework will be part of the development plan, and so influence planning decisions across Scotland. Each area of Scotland has a different spatial strategy - ours comes under the South of Scotland, broadly including Dumfries & Galloway and the Scottish Borders. In this area the plans set out ambitions to: • create a low carbon network of towns • support sustainable development • innovate to sustain and enhance natural capital • strengthen resilience and decarbonise connectivity The draft plan was published on 10 November 2021 and is now being page 7 followed by a public consultation which closes on 31 March 2022. Following parliamentary process and analysis of the public responses, the government hopes to adopt the plan by late summer 2022. So now is your chance to get involved and have your say! This is really important, and the government is encouraging everyone to get involved. You can respond to the consultation by going online at www. transformingplanning.scot/ national-planning-framework/ get-involved The website has lots of useful background information and resources to help you formulate a response, or you can always contact your local community councillors to discuss. Main distributor for Cheval Liberte and Debon in South West Scotland. We specialise in all sizes of horse trailers, tipping and box trailers. Viewings welcome by appointment. www.dgtrailersales.co.uk sales@dgtrailersales.co.uk 01644 717 394 Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP Solicitors and Estate Agents Dumfries & Galloway 01556 503744 www.ggblaw.co.uk All legal advice Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie Kirkcudbright and Dumfries Glenkens Gazette page 8 SOME WARTIME DETECTIVES There are a number of authors who have set, or started, their books during WWII. Following the success of early books most have continued the chronology after 1945 and into the post-war period. The works of Sam Eastland, Philip Kerr, John Lawton, Luke McCallin and Ben Pastor are generally well-written and reasonably engrossing, demonstrate decent historical research and are widely available still. The authors manage to give most of the leading characters some depth and a few human failings. Sam Eastland has written seven books in the Inspector Pekkala series. The first, The Eye of the Red Tsar, is set in 1930s Stalinist Russia and provides much of the framework for the subsequent books. My personal favourite is the second, The Red Coffin, set amongst the development of the famous T-34 battle tank. Philip Kerr introduces us to a private detective, Bernie Gunther, as he tries to navigate his way through the dangerous world of Berlin in the 1930s. The first, March Violets, is followed by 13 others that take us through the war and beyond. I have enjoyed them all but found it best to leave a decent interval between them. John Lawton, in Blackout, introduces us to Frederick Troy investigating crimes in wartime London. The subsequent books develop his career, NOW ONLINE! ORDER ONLINE OR BY PHONE Fleet Fish source a large selection of top quality fish, fruit and vegetables from market place to your door. We also stock chicken, sausages and cold meats plus eggs, milk and cheese. Much more than a fish van! Order before 9pm Sunday for delivery the following Friday 07966 103 912 charliecoid@hotmail.com www.fleet-fish.co.uk although not always strictly chronologically. Second Violin is set earliest in his career. Ben Pastor’s Martin Bora is a German soldier who investigates crimes during WWII across Europe. He is less than committed to the Nazi cause and the books are enjoyable. I have not read them all but the first two, Lumen and Liar Moon, were excellent, as was The Tin Sky. The books are not set chronologically. Luke McCallin brings us the German soldier, Gregor Reinhardt, who is tasked with undertaking criminal investigations for the German army in WWII. There are only a few books and one of them picks up his early life in WWI. From A Dark Horizon and The Man from Berlin are probably the best two to start with. There are, of course, many more authors and their wartime detectives. However, the above are ones that I myself have read and enjoyed. Bruce Smith Glenkens Gazette page 9 CatStrand Highlights It is starting to get busy at CatStrand, with plenty of music, great theatre and dance on its way. The impact of Omicron has unfortunately meant that we have had to postpone Rapture Theatre’s The Guys & Mairi Campbell’s Auld Lang Syne. We hope to reschedule both for 2023. GIGS We have three big gigs coming up with The Paul Mckenna Band on Saturday 12 February, Moishe's Bagel on Monday 3 March and Roddy Woomble on Friday 25 March. The New York Times described The Paul McKenna Band as "the best folk band to have come out of Scotland in the last twenty years". Paul and his band draw on both Scottish and Irish roots in a dynamic, full-bodied array of original and traditional material, along with songs by like-minded authors. Moishe’s Bagel are well-known locally so it's easy to forget their international reputation. They were aptly described by The Scotsman as "putting the class into unclassifiable". Their music is an intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performance. Roddy Woomble is widely regarded as one of Scotland’s finest songwriters, known for his enigmatic lyrics, warm baritone voice and consummate gift for a tune. As the frontman of Idlewild, Roddy has toured the world as a headline act as well as a support act to REM, Pearl Jam and U2, amongst others. DANCE & THEATRE Friday 4 March sees Suzi Cunningham's double bill, Rules to Live By and Eidos, presented at CatStrand. These are stunningly visual female solo Butoh dance and physical theatre pieces, exploring idolatry and identity. Rules to Live By is a raw and riotous movement-led tribute to Mark E Smith (lead singer of The Fall). A glittery and rebellious aspiration to a hero’s punk anarchy; a requiem for heroism, hedonism, rebirth, with dark disturbing humour. Eidos is a tribute to Suzi’s grandmother, a punk in her own right, and Suzi’s personal Vivienne Westwood. On Friday 11 March we host a new show made for youngsters aged 10-14 years (as well as adults). Delve into the mind of a supersleuth in this new production of one of the most popular Sherlock Holmes stories. A four-strong cast present an exciting and thrilling mystery, featuring a feisty heroine overcoming a domineering presence The Galloway Agreement performing at Crichton Church. in her life. Sherlock Holmes: The Speckled Band by Théâtre Sans Frontières is a gothic world of suspense, edgy live music and melodrama. KEN BRIDGE BI-CENTENARY EVENTS 2022 marks two hundred years since the completion of the Ken Bridge. Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 March sees the first of a programme of events taking place across the year. On 26 March Ken Words will hold a special Word Ceilidh at the Ken Bridge Hotel. On 27 March, The Glenkens Story have arranged an afternoon of talks entitled Crossing the Ken: Bridges, Fords and Ferries, discussing the crossings of the Ken, the people who created and used them and the stories they told. CatStrand has commissioned harpist and composer Wendy Stewart to write a Ken Bridge song-suite, using the river Ken, the crossing, and the life of engineer John Rennie as inspiration. On the evening of Sunday 27 March, this will be premiered at a special concert of The Galloway Agreement at Dalry Town Hall. Not to be missed! Glenkens Gazette FOOTPATHS page 10 Supported through the Galloway Glens Scheme The Galloway Glens Scheme runs until September 2023. We are supporting more than 35 projects up and down the Ken/Dee valley, including a series of footpath works. Have you tried out the routes improved by the scheme so far? Some are complete, some underway and others in planning – with a focus on local contractors and materials. For more information, see our website or get in touch… GLENKENS PILGRIMS WAY Barely accessible beforehand, this historic route from Polmaddy to Carsphairn has been secured and improved. carsphairn KEN BRIDGE APPROACH Exploring the opportunity for a new off-road path from New Galloway to the Ken Bridge. UNDER DEVELOPMENT NEW GALLOWAY LINK PATH A new off-road link from the New Galloway Golf Club woods into the Galloway Forest Park, including a bridge over the Knocknairling Burn. dalry New Galloway GLENKENS PILGRIMS WAY, PHASE 2 CROSSMICHAEL COMMUNITY WOODLAND 800m of path resurfaced, with a new bridge + picnic area. loch ken Exploring the potential for an extension of the route from Polmaddy to the Southern Upland Way. BLACKPARK PATH, CASTLE DOUGLAS crossmichael through Threave Estate to Bridge of Dee UNDER DEVELOPMENT OTTER POOLS A short circular route installed around the Otter Pools site, coinciding with construction of the new toilet block. castle douglas MOSSDALE TO GATEHOUSE RAILWAY LINE Supported D&G Council colleagues to improve the surfacing, with a new bridge at Loch Skerrow, allowing pedestrian access as far as the Big Water of Fleet viaduct. Kirkcudbright The Galloway Glens Scheme is an initiative of the Council’s Environment Team. PRIMARY FUNDER: THE GALLOWAY GLENS SCHEME IS OVERSEEN BY A PARTNERSHIP BOARD, INCLUDING: Working with NTS, this popular route was resurfaced, with a spur onto Kelton Mains Farm and a new section to the Bridge of Dee. ‘Threave Trim Trail’ also installed. TORRS POINT, KIRKCUDBRIGHT BAY Surfacing and drainage on this coastal route. Keep up to date with our latest news: WWW.GALLOWAYGLENS.ORG PROJECT IN FOCUS Glenkens Gazette page 11 South of Scotland Tree Planting Grant Scheme In the year of COP26 and with our everincreasing focus on reducing our carbon footprint, the new South of Scotland Tree Planting Grant scheme was introduced across Dumfries & Galloway. Scotland Tree Planting Grant scheme (with the snappy acronym of ‘SoSTPG’) is designed to encourage the creation of small areas of new native woodland and tree planting by funding the cost of trees, protective tubes/stakes and minor fencing works costing up to £1,000. Many successful grant applicants have added their own funds and resources to the grant to create even bigger planting schemes to create new woodland, replace field boundary trees or new tree planting in existing mature woodland. Aside from the carbon capture local communities. Since the beginning of 2021 the scheme has awarded 51 grants to a wide range of individuals, farms, businesses, schools and community groups, which has resulted in over 8,000 new trees being planted across the region. Interest has been particularly high in the Glenkens and surrounding area with over 15 grants being awarded to successful recipients so far. We are particularly excited to see applications have been received from Dalry School and other community groups. This season’s tree planting will be completed by the end of March, but we are now working hard to secure funds to repeat this offer next year. This scheme will add to the landscape of the Glenkens in coming years and will hopefully contribute to the next generation of mature, native trees to be enjoyed by future generations. As the saying goes, “the best time to plant a tree was 80 years ago – the second best time is now…” Since the launch of the scheme, a large proportion of applications for the small-scale planting of native trees has come from right here in the Glenkens. Originally developed by the Woodland Trust, Scottish Borders Council and Tweed Forum, the scheme has been running since 2014 in the Scottish Borders Council area. With help from Dumfries & Galloway Council, a generous private donation and Lottery funding, the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership Jonathan Barrett was able to step up to extend the delivery of For further details of the scheme across the One of the scheme's Glenkens applicants, Balmaclellan’s Lynn Stewart, this scheme contact whole of the Dumfries showing Jonathan Barrett round her newly planted trees. 07469 571806 or & Galloway region. jonathan.barrett@ Although we are dumgal.gov.uk well endowed with This project is part woodland and benefits, the scheme encourages the funded by the National Lottery Heritage forestry, most of this is commercial planting of native woodland trees as Fund, Dumfries & Galloway Council timber. Much of the older, mature a way of enhancing local landscapes and private donations. The scheme is native woodland is in decline as trees and adding to local biodiversity whilst delivered locally by the Galloway Glens succumb to age and disease and promoting woodland stewardship in Landscape Partnership. are often not replaced. The South of Sponsored page, working in partnership W W W. G A L L O W AY G L E N S . O R G Glenkens Gazette page 12 Youth Arts Programme Gets Going Again at CatStrand Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) welcomes Catherine Campbell as its new CatStrand Youth Arts Co-ordinator, after Lucy Smith moved on at the end of last year. Catherine (Cat) brings a wealth of experience in running youth and community arts programmes to the role and, having started in January, her appointment represents a new start for the New Year for Youth Arts in the Glenkens. Peter Renwick - arts, culture and heritage manager for GCAT - said: “It's brilliant to have Catherine on board. She brings a fresh new approach to the programme and 2022 promises to be an excellent year for our Youth Arts programme. Be sure to keep an eye out on the CatStrand Youth Arts Facebook page and our website for new and exciting events, workshops and activities for people aged from four to 25. Many of the events will be free or very low cost. As ever, thanks are due to the Holywood Trust for their ongoing support of this role – it’s very much appreciated.” Catherine Campbell said: “I’m absolutely delighted to join the team at GCAT. I moved to the Glenkens six months ago and have been really keen to get involved in the work of the CatStrand because of its excellent reputation for delivery of arts. "As an artist and a parent, I have always been passionate and committed to inspiring and developing the skills and ambitions of young people in arts, culture and creativity. "I have a degree in Fine Art and Theatre, and a Masters degree in Arts Management, and have spent the last 12 years leading projects involving children and young people in the arts across Yorkshire. "I am so excited to lead and deliver a youthled arts programme which really champions and inspires children and Family and friends coming to stay? Short of space? Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 www.covenanters-holidaycottagescotland.co.uk Kindling available GCAT welcomes new Youth Arts Coordinator, Catherine Campbell. young people in the area. I welcome children, young people and families to contact me with their thoughts and ideas about what they would like to see on the programme. "I am also keen to expand our pool of creative practitioners so if you are an artist, musician, dancer, writer or have any other creative skill and would be interested in working with children and young people, I'd love to hear from you." You can contact Catherine on catherine@catstrand.com or 01644 420 374 or check out the CatStrand brochure, Facebook or www.gcat.scot for details of upcoming events. Glenkens Gazette page 13 Last Day Of Term at Dalry Secondary School Wednesday 22 December was the last day of term in 2021. The secondary pupils celebrated the end of term with various activities. The main event was the church service but, with COVID restrictions in place, there were no family members or primary pupils present. There were several musical performances from pupils, carol singing and a short message from Reverend Bartholomew, reminding us of the meaning of Christmas. After the service the pupils returned to the school and spent the rest of the day enjoying a range of activities including board games and crafts. It was a challenging term with rising COVID infection levels and restrictions continuing but we pulled through it together. Now into 2022, pupils and staff are looking forward to a new year where hopefully things will improve. The senior pupils are already preparing for prelims and looking towards their final exams. Perhaps this will be the year where things return to normal? Colin McEwan Pictured: secondary pupils' visit to Dalry Church. LEARNING THROUGH PLAY P3,4,5 have been busy investigating and exploring through their play and enquiry based learning this term. The pupils decided they wanted to know more about Robert Burns, so we put together a mini ‘When Burns was a Bairn’ topic. We researched life in the 1700s, created models in Minecraft of the style of cottages, learned to blether in Scots, rewrote the story of The Gruffalo in Scots, had a wee jig to some Scottish music and topped off our learning with a fantastic Burns’ Supper and Scots poetry competition. All the pupils were brilliant and made their teachers very proud. Celebrating Robert Burns been really great opportunity to investigate Scottish history… I just wonder where the inquisitive minds of P3,4,5 with take us next time? Jenna Devlin Glenkens Gazette page 14 Easter Arts & Crafts Fair Once again Dalry Town Hall hosted a successful Art and Crafts Fair at the end of November 2021. The weather was not on our side but with true Dumfries and Galloway spirit many of our exhibitors turned up. The hardy souls that braved the cold and wet were treated to some beautiful, handcrafted items and pieces of artwork which could be purchased as unique gifts for family and friends. We had the outside Pop-Up Café under cover, serving hot drinks and delicious homemade cakes. Following on from this successful event we will host an Easter Art & Crafts Fair on Sunday 17 April from 11am until 3pm. Some of the designers and crafters that came have already booked their stalls which helped us make the decision to have another fair. Again, we will be having the Pop-Up Café and there may be an Easter egg hunt for the younger ones and an Easter bonnet competition for everyone, judged by one of our artist/crafters. More details will follow so look out for the posters in the coming weeks. Finally, I wish to extend a very big "thank you" to everyone who helped out with the Christmas fair, and to all the exhibitors and customers who supported our efforts. All the money raised goes towards the Dalry Town Hall refurbishment fund and, on behalf of the hall management committee, I thank all the residents and visitors. Keep an eye out for further details at www.dalrytownhall.co.uk and on the Dalry Arts & Craft Fair Facebook page. Lesley Blissett, chair, Dalry Town Hall management committee Pictured are some of the art and craft items for sale at the Christmas fair. Glenkens Gazette page 15 Glenkens Local Food Network We just want to say a massive "thank you" to everyone who signed up and used the Festive Food Hub. growing with demand. We are looking for more local producers to get involved – if you grow veg locally and often end up with a surplus, or would like to grow some for the Hub, please get in touch. We always need more veg, and our current producers can’t provide enough for everyone! We don’t want to have to buy veg in and would much rather work cooperatively and collaboratively with local growers of all sizes. We’re also planning a series of events through the year to connect gardeners and growers and to share skills, knowledge, produce and wisdom. The first of these is penciled in for Saturday 19 March in New Galloway Town Hall – a Seed Swap and Gardeners Get Together. Save the date - I look forward to seeing you there! The trial was a great success, both for local producers and consumers. It wasn’t without hiccups but, thankfully, they were few and far between. Propagate is now looking for funding to support the set-up and running costs of the first year of a permanent Food Hub for the area. This is likely to evolve over time, starting small and Abi Mordin, Propagate Festive Food Hub boxes being delivered by Beth from Propagate. Zero Footprint 12 Years On Zero Footprint 12 Years On is an exhibition by local photographers Ted Leeming and Morag Paterson which will be on display at the CatStrand from 1 February until 1 March. Ted and Morag visually explore their home patch of 11 acres of natural regeneration and native woodland planting. The photos explore the human and nonhuman habitats both ‘inside’ the boundary lines and looking to ‘outside’, where the landscape is likely to change rapidly over the next decade due to new agricultural subsidies, forest expansion and the rush to buy carbon credits and secure natural capital. The project combines traditional photography with some experimental and abstract photographic processes, rather than addressing the subject from a purely documentary point of view. There will also be old and new maps on display, soil chromatography and paper made from naturally re-generated willow trees, and a chance to contribute your own thoughts and ideas to the conversation, which will then go on to inform future works. There will be an informal ‘talks and conversations’ event on the evening of Thursday 24 February. Spaces are limited so please contact CatStrand on 01644 420 374 to book. Glenkens Gazette page 16 Take a Dip on the Wild Side Continued from front page... I was nervous at first of the sheer expanse of Loch Ken (and the thought of the huge pike which inhabit it), having become used to the security of urban swimming pools. However, I soon conquered those fears and am happy to say that I am smitten but never bitten, and I haven't heard of anyone suffering any ill consequences from the loch's aquatic residents. In fact, in summer you can indulge in the equivalent of a spa treatment by lounging by the loch and having the minnows nibble your toes. This is quite a pleasant experience for which some people pay a fortune, but here in the Glenkens it’s free! running costs of the safety boat is the only expense. As you swim from the pier at Crossmichael you get a stunning view of the lower loch and the gentle grassy slopes of the parish of Balmaghie. You also share the loch with wildlife so it is important to respect this and, during nesting season, to avoid approaching too close to potential waterfowl nesting sites. Freshwater swimming has many benefits. It stimulates the release of 'happy' hormones (dopamine), leaving you energised and smiling in a post-swim 'high'. In the long run, it boosts your immune system as well as your sense of wellbeing. It improves sleep and helps lower stress levels. And, of course, there are the benefits of sharing an activity with others. I also find that being at one with nature, and feeling a sense of blending in with your surroundings, brings a wholesome spiritual dimension to the experience. Swimming smoothly into an unbroken mirror of reflections, or catching the rising or setting sun's liquid light, can be truly magical. Swimming smoothly into an unbroken mirror of reflections, or catching the rising or setting sun's liquid light, can be truly magical. Of course, like any outdoor pursuit, the sense of freedom has to be accompanied by a sense of responsibility. You have to watch for sudden surges caused by the hydro system. And never ever go swimming by yourself. A couple of hundred yards downstream from Dalry is the pool by a rock known as Cat Craig. On sunny summer days, the place can be alive with folks of all ages enjoying the beach and the calm waters. And not everyone gives up when the weather turns fresher. The shock of plunging into cold water can become an addictive pleasure! In Crossmichael, a group meet regularly under the friendly, careful supervision of Jim, who takes his boat onto the loch in order to keep a watchful eye on the condition of the water and the progress and safety of swimmers. These supervised swims take place on Sundays at 10am throughout the year and also, from Easter to October, on Wednesdays at 5pm. It is best to wear a highvis item such as a fluorescent head cap or a tow-float so that you are immediately visible and can be spotted if you get into trouble. A small donation of a pound or so for the Anyone who can swim confidently is welcome to come along - the mixed-ability gathering includes children following in their inspirational grandmother's wake, triathlon athletes and leisurely-paced swimmers like myself. You can build up your confidence near the shallow shores or swim across to Balmaghie and back - it's up to you. In cold water, you need to move, though; your own efforts gradually warm you from inside and the water starts to feel comfortable - you can tame the cold. And when it rains you can enjoy a frog's view of the bouncing droplets! Wetsuit or no wetsuit? While there are amazing individuals locally who have built up the ability to swim all year without a wetsuit, I am sadly not one of them...yet. I use a suit that is designed for this type of swimming. I have just paid £150 for a new one, the 'old' one having lasted me over two years of weekly swims. I also use swimming gloves and socks in the cooler months. If you feel ready to peel off the wetsuit and re-enter the water after some energetic strokes, the tingling sensation of the water directly on your own skin is curiously delicious! Most importantly, keep safe. Advice is available both online, through Facebook groups such as Dumfries and Galloway Wild Swimmers, and through the local community of wild swimmers. I look forward to seeing you soon! Anne Chaurand Crossing Loch Ken on a winter morning. Glenkens Gazette page 17 DAISY'S BIG QUESTION “Mummy?” This piece of flash fiction by local author Paul Goodwin was first published in Southlight in Spring 2019 and has also been published on www. storiesforlipreading. org.uk “Yes Daisy?” “Why don’t people speak to me?” The question came as a shock, although it shouldn’t have. “You speak to me… and daddy… and Poppy… and Nana… and the lady who came to see us last week, but other people don’t. They just nod or smile.” Raising a child on a farm presents lots of challenges, keeping Daisy safe from animals and machinery was a full-time job once she learnt to walk and she is such an adventurous child. She is keen to learn her letters and numbers before she starts nursery next year and she can already write her name so we are working on writing her address now. “Why mummy?” She has had all her injections and we bought the best child’s car seat. We even changed our old LandRover for something with a better safety rating. Anything to protect her. “Why?” “Daisy, you know that there are different countries?” Daisy nods in reply. “Well, people in different countries often speak different languages and they don’t know how to speak to each other. People don’t speak to you because they don’t speak your language.” “Oh.” (a long pause) “Could we go to the country where people speak my language?” “I’m sorry Daisy, we can’t do that”. I wish more people would learn British Sign Language! Neil's Comic Capers Neil Paterson can be commissioned to do cartoons for special events and occasions such as retirements, birthdays, weddings, etc. To get in touch email pater5365@yahoo.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 18 sponsored by If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk FREE Epson printer cartridges 1291 and 1281 series. 01644 420 267 Brown leather reclining chair, reasonable condition, contact Mark on 07515 052 238 Electric lawmower and grass box. Contact: Ian on 07840 506 516 Three-seater IKEA Karlanda sofa, approx 7ft long, with spare set of covers. The sofa is light blue/grey, and the spare covers are mustard yellow. New Galloway. Contact: 07763170098 Horse manure (including some chicken manure), rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 FOR SALE Elite Care wheelchair, suitable for large person, barely used. £100. Contact: 07521 902 567 WANTED Chest freezer. Contact: Tony on 07507 704 821 Old lawn mowers/strimmers/ other small machinery. Non-runners/broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 2 x queen size mattresses. 1 sofa (preferably a sofa bed). Contact: Sarah on 07453 858 505 or saraheathomas@gmail.com HOME WANTED IN THE GLENKENS We are seeking to buy a home with 2-3 bedrooms and 3-5 acres of land, somewhere in the Glenkens. We've been here for almost two years renting, are active in the local community and want to put down roots. Anywhere and any condition considered - please help us to stay in the Glenkens! Contact: Abi and Bruce on 07340 531506 or abi@mordin.net Wright’s Shop & Post Office Friday grocery delivery and daily paper round now available within Dalry - please phone to enquire. stocking a range of local suppliers • Express Bakery bread • • Irvings biscuits & cakes • • Ballards & Dalmellington Country Butchers meat & pies • • Mitchells fruit & veg • Shop & Post Office open 7 days Monday to Friday 7am–6pm Saturday 8am–6pm Sunday 8.30am–4pm Tel 01644 430 225 Glenkens Gazette page 19 sponsored by GLENKENS ENERGY CAFES Glenkens Community & Arts Trust have been successful in an application to the Rural Communities Ideas Into Action Fund for a grant to pilot Energy Cafés in three locations in the Glenkens. These will be held in Balmacellan, Carsphairn and Crossmichael: • The Smiddy, Balmaclellan, on Saturday 26 February from 11am to 4pm • The Memorial Hall, Crossmichael, on Saturday 12 March from 11am to 4pm • Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn, on Sunday 26 March from 11am to 4pm I am hoping to have as many partners as possible in attendance, giving advice on energy saving, how to decipher energy bills and make sure you’re on the right tariff, examples of energy efficiency technology, advice on fuel poverty and how to get out of it, etc. We are purchasing some plug-in energy monitors that will be available for people to borrow to ascertain where they are using the most energy. These events will be set out like a café, with a number of tables with cakes and tea and coffee and, at each table, one of our partners offering information and advice. People can move round the tables - a bit like energy info speed dating! I am very keen to hear your thoughts and suggestions on this, and if you can think of any other potential partners that could be helpful to have there that would be wonderful. As you can imagine, time is of the essence so a speedy response would be great please - you can get hold of me at fiona@catstrand.com or 01644 420 374. Thank you and best wishes, Fiona Limbrey, GCAT Volunteer, Capacity Building & Community Resilience Officer Glenkens Gazette page 20 The Optimistic Environmentalist Water, water, everywhere..? The majority of the earth is covered by water, but only one percent is not salty from the sea or frozen. Of this, only a small amount is in reservoirs or wells for us to drink. What many of us use has to be cleaned for drinking water and the waste is re-cleaned to recycle again. This is expensive, time-consuming and energy intensive - Scottish Water is one of the highest-energy consumers in Scotland! Saving water helps reduce our energy bill too. Around one fifth of the average household's heating bills goes in heating water. Think before you throw water away - can it be used for something else? Pets need fresh water at all times, so it's better to partly fill their bowls regularly than fill them up and throw a lot away. dishes in a lot of water. Wait for a full load though, and use the 'eco' setting, saving water and energy. water every day, and between 5% and 8% of toilets leak, most commonly dual flush toilets. Did you know? A tap left running while washing dishes or fruit and vegetables for 10 minutes can use around 110 litres of water, which disappears straight down the drain! If you have easy access to your cistern, put food dye or a dye tablet in the cistern and wait 20 minutes. If the water in the toilet bowl is coloured, you have a leak. Use a washing machine with full loads and on 'eco' settings where possible. For smaller washes, use the half load cycle; some machines measure how much water is needed for a particular load. When buying a washing machine or dishwasher, don't just look at its price, compare its water and energy usage and its 'eco' settings. Saving Water in the Garden Saving Water in the Bathroom Showers and baths use the most water in the home (30%), and make up around a fifth of the average household energy bill. Using a shower instead of a bath can save two thirds of the water. Knocking just one minute off your normal shower can save over Saving Water in the Kitchen Re-use water from your vegetable steamer - flush the toilet or, once cooled and filtered, put in your water butt/s outside. If you boil your veg in water, use it to make gravy so you benefit from the extra vitamins too. A dripping tap can waste over 5,500 litres of water a year - that's enough to fill a paddling pool every week for the whole summer, or over 15 litres a day. Make sure taps are turned off properly or replace the washer, or the tap if necessary. Wash your dishes in a basin or bowl instead of under a running tap. Dishwashers can use less water than hand washing as they spray the water to clean the pots rather than dowsing Use a water butt. Fit it with a tap; either empty into a watering can or container or fit a hosepipe. You can fit a number of permanent pipes and butts together to carry more garden rainfall around the garden including into the greenhouse. Cover the butts in plants or decorate them. Did you know? Rainwater contains nitrogen which helps your plants thrive. Save water and energy - only fill the kettle with the amount of water you need. Buy a kettle which lets you fill just the amount for the cupfuls you want to boil at any one time. When you want to have fresh water in your kettle, don't just empty it down the sink - think of something you can do with it; defrost your birdbath or use it for pot plants once cool. Did you know? A hosepipe can use enough water in 30 minutes to fill five baths. Use a watering can instead of a hose; it's more accurate, placing the water where it is most needed. Watering plants early in the morning or late in the evening not only stops them from being burnt by the sun, but also reduces evaporation. Fit your hose pipe with a trigger nozzle so it only runs when you need it to. A small Scottish roof collects over 45,000 litres of water each year, more than enough to keep your water butt topped up. Just fit a diverter on the downpipe from the roof to drain water into the butt. 2,600 litres of water and 27kg of CO2 per person each year - try a shower timer. Although you need to watch out for power showers as they can use as much water as a bath! Turning off the tap when brushing your teeth or shaving can save 5 litres a minute and over 3,700 litres a year per person. Putting the water into a mug instead means what is left can be used for other purposes, eg for cleaning the toilet. When you buy a toilet, check how much water is used per flush. If you have an older toilet, reduce the amount of water used by putting a brick, large stone or a toilet 'hippo' (an inflated bag) into the cistern; these can be removed for a particularly large flush. Did you know? A leaking toilet can waste between 215 and 400 litres of Use a bucket and sponge to wash the car rather than a hose pipe. Even better, use the water out of your water butt! To water your pot plants, use water from the butt with the watering can even for your inside plants. Leaking Pipes It's important to get leaking pipes fixed as soon as possible. If the leaks are in your house or on your land, it will be your responsibility. Remember, not only are you wasting water but it can often end up in damaging your property, particularly when left for a while. Make sure you and your family know where your stopcock is so when you have a water problem, you can shut it off straight-away - stopcocks are not always easily found, particularly if you are panicking. Glenkens Gazette page 21 Anniversary Fundraising for New Galloway Town Hall A recent email from Canada triggered a look into the history of New Galloway Town Hall. The enquirer was seeking a portrait of her great-great-grandfather. There was, unfortunately, no portrait, but we did discover something very interesting about him. Situated in the town hall is a plaque in memory of Dr Millman, the provost of the Royal Burgh of New Galloway from 1868 to 1881 and the enquirer's great-great-grandfather. Among his work as provost, Dr Millman was instrumental in raising funds in 1872 to replace the town hall clock. There is a wonderfully comprehensive minute of the meeting of the town council at which the provost made the case for a new clock: “He had called the council together for the purpose of consulting them as to the advisability of making an attempt to remove the stigma that had for many years adhered to the Burgh in consequence of the utterly worthless condition of the town clock as a timekeeper... The time had arrived when exertions should be made to replace it by a new clock which should not only be of use to the inhabitants, but also an ornament to the Burgh.” Dr Millman’s fundraising had been very successful. He gathered £190 with, it would appear, very strong support from the Burgh as there is a list of 290 subscribers. The first name on the list is Dr Millman himself, who donated two guineas. A guinea was one pound and one shilling. The donations ranged from five guineas to one shilling. Now, exactly 150 years later, there is fundraising afoot once again for the Town Hall. Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING), the charity which has been managing the hall for the last five years, has been awarded a grant of £175,000 to refurbish the hall but needs to match that by raising another £175,000 and, as you can imagine, further grants are being sought. If the total of £350,000 can be reached then LING is confident that "exertions can be made… to The plaque in the Town Hall dedicated to Dr Millman. and all readers are enthusiastically encouraged to please donate and share the page - every pound donated is worth two because of the matched funding, so every contribution is doubly significant. Now it may be that following Dr Millman with two guineas is ambitious (two guineas of 1872 is equivalent to £250 today!) but one old shilling (say £6), or more if you can possibly afford it, would be wonderfully welcome. ...the stigma that had for many years adhered to the Burgh in consequence of the utterly worthless condition of the town clock as a timekeeper... The new clock was first set in motion by Mrs Maxwell of Glenlee, one minute before noon on Friday 20 September 1872. This was not quite the end of the story, however, because “in consequence of a violent storm of wind and a defect in fixing by the Mason, the West dial fell out and was destroyed on the 3 January 1873. It was replaced without delay.” remove the stigma that has for many years adhered to the Burgh in consequence of the utterly worthless condition”... well, that’s a bit over the top, but the look of the hall is certainly in need of improvement and a lift will open the upper hall to everyone. A crowd-funding initiative was set up on 29 January this year We know some people are already fundraising for us and will be donating larger sums. The link to the crowdfunding page is www. crowdfunder.co.uk/p/sos---saveour-space-new-galloway Our reply to our Canadian enquirer included some photographs and further Millman details and concluded with information on the current fundraising. The LING treasurer added that it would be remiss of him not to invite them to donate, to which they have replied positively. Please do join in this anniversary fundraising - it would be lovely if we can equal or exceed the 290 subscribers of 1872! Bob Glaister, Treasurer, LING Glenkens Gazette page 22 GLENKENS PLACE NAMES: PART XIV About 500m or so from Carsphairn and on the west side of the Water of Deugh is the site of the deserted farm of Halfmark. This is near the confluence of the Halfmark and Garryhorn Burns. This farm is shown as Halfmark on Ainslie’s map of 1797 and on the OS 1st edition 6-inch map of 1853. Published at roughly the same time, in 1858, AE Thomson’s Plan of Woodhead including portions of adjacent farms calls the place HalfMark farm of Castlemaddy. This implies that it was once part of Castlemaddy Farm. At any rate in 1859 it comprised some 482 acreas of which only six was arable or meadow, probably the area shown as ‘Croft’ that occupied a bend in the Water of Deugh. Most of the former farm was described as moss and hill pasture. The site has unfortunately been obliterated by forestry operations, with the first Sitka rotation already felled and a second about halfway to maturity. The farm was evidently still occupied in 1853. Thomson’s map shows that Halfmark was connected to Castlemaddy to the south by what he calls a ‘drove road’. The farm was unnamed on the second edition OS map in the 1880s but still appears to have been roofed. Upstream from the site of Halfmark farm with its garden is another area of better ground, occupying a loop in the Halfmark Burn where there is a small island indicated. This flat area was called Black Holm on Thomson’s map, ‘holm’ being a Scots term for a flat, usually fertile area beside a river (eg Holm of Dalry). This holm has escaped afforestation in the 1970s perhaps due to its waterlogged nature after drainage stopped when Halfmark was abandoned. Thomson also shows a few small areas of trees surviving amongst the rocky sides of the Halfmark Burn, these being almost the only trees evident in an otherwise completely bare landscape. The Cleugh of Alraith (Cleugh of Auld Raith on Thomson, 1859) refuge for native trees still exists. Halfmark is a Scots term indicating a farm worth in rental terms half a merk, ie 80 pence. Cleugh is a Scots word meaning a ravine and is common in the Scottish Borders and Dumfries-shire, less so in Galloway. Alraith/Auld Raith may be derived from Scots Gaelic Ail Raithe ‘bracken cliff/rock’ maybe referring to the steep sides of the cleugh. Alternatively the generic could be Scots Gaelic allt, ‘burn’ so ‘bracken burn’ (the Thomson form rather suggests allt). Then again the specific might refer to Scots Gaelic rath, ‘fort’. For further discussion on these terms see Place-Names of the Galloway Glens website. Whatever the meaning of the specific term here it seems that the generic element raith/rath was fossilised as Na Gearrachan a place-name when the local Gaelic pronunciation still sounded the terminal 'th'. The change of pronunciation of Gaelic th to 'h' was general in ordinary speech by about the fourteenth century, was later in the eastern Grampians than elsewhere and did not take place until the 16th century or even later in highregister poetic diction. It’s possible that speakers in the area? Just across the Halfmark Burn from the Black Holm is the green oasis that holds the site of the former farm called Mosspark. This was a ruin on the OS 1st edition map and on Thomson’s map it is termed "Ruins of Moss-park Farm steading". Thomson lists this as a large farm of some 1,684 acres of which only some 42 were classed as arable/ meadow. Mosspark farm occupied the area between the Halfmark Burn and the Garryhorn Burn and extended all the way to the top of the ridge of the Rhinns of Kells, incorporating Craighit, from Creag a’ Chait, ‘wild-cat rock’, Cairnsgarroch derived from An Càrnas Gearrach, ‘the furrowed cairn-shaped hill’ and Meaul from Am Meall, ‘the lump’. Between Craighit and Blackcraig is a very peculiar name on the former farm of Mosspark. This is Pitiffers. There is another of these odd ‘pitt’ names in Carsphairn, that is Petillery in the very far north of the parish. Pitiffers looks rather like Scots Gaelic Peit, ‘piece of land’+ aifreann/aifrinn, ‘a religious mass’ with English plural. However Pitiffers is quite near the lead mines at Woodhead so are we looking at some strange use of the standard English word ‘pit’? There is a disused mine shaft near there shown on the OS 1:25k map. Another possibility is that the name derives from the surname Pettifer, common in England, with many spelling variants and which seems to be mainly found in the South East Midlands. This personal name is from Norman-French pie de fer 'iron-foot', as a nickname either for someone with a prosthesis or a mighty strong walker! A further comparator might be Gleniffer Braes in Robertson Country Park near Paisley. This could be a lost streamname in either place, -iffer would be from early Gaelic ibar/iubhar. So Pittifers might be peit-iubhair, ‘yew-place’, either referring directly to yews or via a streamname. If so, it is very odd that we have two place-names possibly containing Scots Gaelic peit in Carsphairn parish. Between Craighit and Blackcraig is a very peculiar name on the former farm of Mosspark. This is Pitiffers. there would have been a time lag in the representation of the weakened sound in Scots spellings, since the weakening of articulation would have been progressive rather than sudden. Nonetheless it is a bit surprising to find the 'th' sound preserved here. Possibly familiarity with the name before the sound change, by Scots Michael Ansell, Cars Fèarna Glenkens Gazette page 23 Photo of the Issue Sponsored by the Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Company This issue’s winner is Stephen Jackson with this unique shot of a Galloway 'deebra', spotted at the Red Deer Range situated on the A712 Queensway (heading out of New Galloway towards Newton Stewart). Stephen wins two portions of mac and cheese from our competition sponsors, the Balmaclellan-based Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Co. Company owner and competition judge, Hannah Gould, said: "A rare sight, the deebra has always been elusive and shy. This beautiful animal can only be found in the deer parks of Galloway and there are hardly any photographs of these creatures. We feel privileged to see such a great close-up - it would be good to see some more of these lovely animals..." To enter you can send in any photograph taken in the Glenkens to glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Campaign to Have Witches Pardoned Those who read the article on the witch Elspeth McEwan in the October/November edition of the Gazette may be interested to hear that there is a campaign afoot to have Scots witches who were convicted of witchcraft pardoned. The 'Witches of Scotland' campaign hopes that an official apology could be issued on 8 March International Women's Day. Do you have the power to change the world? The purpose and passion of local company Natural Power's founders has drawn similar people to Natural Power for over 25 years. Despite our growth, our philosophy hasn’t changed and our team continues to work together to create a world powered by renewable energy. If you think you can help us make that happen, please have a look at some of the roles we are currently looking to fill - visit www.naturalpower.com/uk/careers Gordon McAdam N ew Galloway Golf Club Founded Foun ded 1902 www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk - 01644 420737 Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Plumbing & Heating The Natural Power Team HOUSE REPAIRS JOINERY 22 Kirkland Street St John’s Town of Dalry Semi-retired Furniture Maker & Builder in GLENKENS AREA 01644 430 393 07834 321 789 Call Pete on 07970 462 088 ...special rates for inclusion of tea, cake and friendly banter... Glenkens Gazette page 24 GAZETTE CROSSWORD This crossword is sponsored by Lancaster Wealth & Investment Management (see ad on p6), with a prize of a £25 voucher for the Clachan Inn. Congratulations to Danny & Heather Chipchase who won last issue's prize! 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 12 9 11 13 14 15 16 ACROSS 1 1840 invention that helped 400,000 Valentine’s Day cards reach loved ones in its Þrst year (5,5) 4 Frances McDormand won the Best Actress Oscar for her role in ÒThree Billboards Outside Ebbing, _________Ó (8) 5 Film that was accidentally announced as the winner of Best Picture Oscar in 2017 Ò______ LandÓ (2,2) 6 Word which when follows both Moon and Green, completes the titles of two Best Picture Oscar winners (5) 7 Benedict Cumberbatch stars in this 2021 Golden Globe winning Þlm Ò The Power of the _____Ó (3) 8 An abundant colour at Chinese New Year, symbolising luck, joy and happiness (3) 10 In the Chinese Zodiac, the animal representing 2022 (5) DOWN 1 Tom Hanks won the Best Actor Oscar for this Þlm (12) 2 The Winter Olympic Games start in February 2022 in this city (7) 3 French pancake made of a thin batter (5) 8 Australian Open match court, named after a successful Australian tennis star, Ò____ _______ ArenaÓ (3, 5) 9 Cricketing term for a batsman being dismissed with a score of zero (4) 11 Winner of the Best Actress Oscar for her role in “Walk the Line” as June Carter - __________ Witherspoon (5) 13 Test cricket series played between England and Australia ÒThe _____Ó (5) 12 Best Picture Oscar winning South Korean black comedy (8) 14 Pancake Day is the informal name of Ò_______ TuesdayÓ (6) 15 AlÞe Hewitt and Gordon ______ who won a ninth consecutive Wheelchair Grand Slam Doubles title at the Australian Open 2022 (4) 16 2021 Australian Open Women’s Singles Champion, Naomi ______ (5) Chance to win £25 in vouchers for The Clachan Inn, Dalry Complete the crossword above and solve the anagram of the letters in the pink boxes. Send the winning word to philip.lancaster@sjpp.co.uk and a winner will be chosen at random. Good luck! Glenkens Gazette page 25 Glenkens Community Police Happy New Year from all of us at Stewartry Community Policing Team. WINDY STANDARD WIND FARM COMMUNITY UPDATE We would like to wish everyone a healthy and happy new year. As we reflect on the past twelve months, despite its challenges, we have really valued the time that the community has spent talking to us and discussing our proposals for Windy Standard Wind Farm. The feedback that we have gathered has been fantastic and we hope to continue these conversations in 2022. Looking forward, we plan to submit our application to the Scottish Government for the Windy Standard Repowering in late March. Ahead of then we will continue to speak to stakeholders and the local community and keep everyone up-to-date with our progress. In the meantime, we are continuing to explore how we can reuse the blades we will be removing from the wind farm site. We are also looking into arranging an open day on site for when restrictions ease and the weather improves. We hope to see you there! For further information you can visit the website www. windystandardwindfarm.co.uk We want to hear your views - please contact us on communities@fredolsen. co.uk or 07435 763 900 Advertisement Throughout 2021, we have continued to work together with our partner agencies and local communities to prevent and detect crime and keep people safe whilst at home, travelling, socialising and shopping across the region. We continue to maintain a visible police presence throughout our communities, working towards raising awareness of both local and national campaigns. The pandemic continues to generate uncertainty and has an impact on us all, but it is evident our communities have pulled together during the festive period and New Year celebrations. We would like to thank you for your support and ongoing adherence of the guidance and restrictions put in place by the Scottish Government in effort to make our festive period safer and in effort to reduce the impact of the pandemic as we enter 2022. As we move forward into the New Year, let’s hope for a more prosperous year ahead. I hope 2022 brings a return to some kind of normality for local events to go ahead and I will hopefully see many of you while I’m out and about in the coming months. PC Amy Baird Glenkens Gazette page 26 New Flower Fairies Needed for New Galloway New Galloway’s flower fairies, Marion Briggs and Linda Garrety, have tended the community gardens of New Galloway for many years, bringing delight and pleasure to all who pass by. Now it is time for them to hang up their wings and retire into their own gardens - so we need new flower fairies! Are you green-fingered and would like to have a patch of garden to tend and, in doing so, bring joy to the folks of New Galloway? There are two plots available; the garden at the entrance to the village on the Ken Bridge side and the larger garden beneath the Royal Burgh village sign. Whoever the willing heroes are who take this on will have free rein to create gardens of their own choosing and imagination. If you think this is the project for you, Marion and Linda would be happy to talk to you about their experience to get you started. Marion can be contacted on 01644 420 475 or found in her garden at Kyles, Kirk Road, New Galloway. GALLOWAY GREENS My name is Catrin Johnes and, from this spring, my husband John and I will be taking care of the Galloway Greens her boxes in New Galloway. The seven boxes which are dotted around the village were made possible through generous donations from local companies and individuals. If you look carefully, there is a small plaque on each box naming the sponsor. Each box will be planted with a wonderful selection of edible fresh herbs. The herbs are for you to help yourself to - just pick what you want and get cooking! Herbs are incredibly healthy, containing all kinds of vitamins and antioxidants and, most importantly, they help to make our food taste great. Herbs can be expensive to buy in the shops and often end up languishing in the back of the fridge in a slimy mess. By using the Galloway Greens herb boxes, we can all enjoy eating fresh herbs without the expense or the waste. If you are new to cooking with herbs, try gently crushing a leaf or two between your fingers to experience the aroma, or have a nibble to discover the flavour of these lovely fresh herbs. Look for the snippets of information in or near the boxes and remember, you can never go wrong with a bit of parsley sprinkled over your tatties! Catrin Johnes Glenkens Gazette GLENKENS GLASS RECYCLING POINTS • Balmaclellan Stores, Balmaclellan • Memorial Hall, St Michael's Road, Crossmichael • Kirkland Street, St John's Town of Dalry page 27 Sports in Dalry Outdoor Bowls (from April) - for details contact Jim Hutchinson on 01644 430 639 Table Tennis (available 24/7) - for details contact Gary Blissett on 01644 430 521 Snooker (available 24/7) - for details contact Gary • St David Street, Kirkpatrick Durham ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) The Old School, Crossmichael, DG7 3AP Offering time-tested, personalised acupuncture and traditional Chinese herbal medicine to the Dumfries & Galloway region. Practitioner Matthew Pajo has been studying and practising Chinese medicine for over 25 years and has completed a BHSc in acupuncture and has attained a MAppSc in Chinese Herbal Medicine Contact Matthew on 07786 079 845 We are pleased to welcome chartered psychologist Amber DunlopPajo to the Crossmichael Complementary Therapy Centre. Amber has spent over 20 years working as a psychologist, with a special focus on health psychology. Amber specialises in womens' health as well as depression, stress and anxiety. Contact Amber on 07389 713 106 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 Badminton (available 24/7) - for details contact Gary Blissett on 01644 430 521 Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) Indoor Bowls (from October to March) - for details contact contact Gary Blissett on 01644 430 521 CROSSMICHAEL COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY CENTRE • New Galloway, Carson's Knowe Car Park For details of other recycling points visit www.dumgal.gov. uk/wasterecycling - follow the ‘Recycling Points in the Community’ link. There is also a ‘Find My Nearest’ tool that enables you to find a range of local services, including recycling points. Blissett on 01644 430 521 THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm Sat 2-2.30 pm GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS General Medical & Dispensing Services FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY The Surgery High Street New Galloway Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm  01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS  FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 Glenkens Gazette The Community Kindness Cupboard outside Dalry Library has home baking in every Thursday. page 28 WHERE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB LISTINGS Dumfries & Galloway! What's Going on @DGWGO on Facebook; What's Going On Glenkens @WGOGlenkens on Facebook; Glenkens Gazette @GlenkensNews on Facebook – once on the page for any of these, use the search function to look for jobs. The Glenkens' largest employer, Natural Power Consultants Ltd, also have a jobs page - www.naturalpower.com/uk/careers KEY GLENKENS CONTACTS LOCAL DOCTORS’ SURGERY Glenkens Medical Practice - 01644 420 234 COMMUNITY CONTACTS • Balmaclellan: Martin Warnock 07939 261 391 • Carsphairn: Liz Holmes - 07718 358 160 • Corsock: Julie Garton - 07769 647 702 • Kirkpatrick Durham: Heather 07551 639 629 • Crossmichael: Richard Middleton 01556 670 691 • Dalry: Graham West - 01644 430 503 • Mossdale: Shop - 01644 450 281 • New Galloway: Helen Keron 07741 656 601 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 FOOD DELIVERIES • Galloway Foodbank - 07730 788 335 • Hidden Veg - www. openfoodnetwork.org.uk/hiddenveg/shop • Ballards Butchers - 01556 502502 (they also deliver groceries) • Grierson’s Butchers: 01556 502 637 • Henderson’s Butchers: 01556 502 654 • Mitchell’s Greengrocers: 01556 502 077 • Fleet Fish: order before 1pm on Mondays for delivery the following week. Delivery days can be found when ordering at www.fleet-fish. co.uk or call 07966 103 912 • Roan’s Dairy - 01556 620 374 LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Glenkens Community Shop: Contact Liz Lewis on 07530 804 217 or drop by the shop on Main Street, Dalry Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact Ros Hill at ros.hill@rathanhouse.co.uk Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail.com or 01644 430 521 Dalry Town Hall: Contact Jim Reid on 07776 034 260 or jamescreid@hotmail.co.uk Glenkens Community Centre: Contact Carylann Williamson at williamsoncarylann@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact ngce5000@gmail.com or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins at julia.higgins55@outlook.com CatStrand: Contact Fiona Limbrey at fiona@catstrand. com or 01644 420 374 or pop in to the CatStrand Schools: Visit the school office or call Dalry Primary on 01644 430 105 (for Nursery/ELC too), Dalry Secondary on 01644 430 259 or Kells on 01644 420 340 Carsphairn Heritage Group: carsphairnheritagegroup@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie at mcnabb.laurie@dumgal.gov.uk If you would like to add your community organisation to this list please get in touch with the Gazette - contact details are on the back page. CHURCH TIMES CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: Sunday Services Balmaclellan: 11am - 6 Feb & 6 Mar Carsphairn: 11am - 13 Feb & 13 Mar Kells: 11am - 20 Feb & 20 Mar Dalry: 11am - 27 Feb & 27 Mar Special Services Communion - 20 Feb, 11am, Kells Church Communion - 13 Mar, 11am, Carsphairn Church or Lagwyne Hall World Day of Prayer Service - 4 Mar, 2.30pm, Dalry Church Local Church of Scotland congregations can be accessed on YouTube under ‘Balmaclellan, Kells and Dalry linked with Carsphairn’. These can also be emailed - contact DBartholomew@churchofscotland.org.uk and paper copies can be provided to those who do not have internet access. Contact David on 01644 430 380 for these resources, or simply for a chat. St Margaret's Church, Kenbridge Road, New Galloway, DG7 3RP Sundays: 10.30am Sung Eucharist, followed by coffees/teas Visitors are always welcome - for further information, including directions, please see our website www. stmargaretsnewgalloway.org or call our vestry secretary, Christine Rankin, on 01644 420 259. Glenkens Gazette page 29 GALLOWAY COMMUNITY TRANSPORT www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org email gct@catstrand.com phone 01644 420374 mobile 07841 512449 February – March 2022 GCT Ebikes Regular Services GK2 Glenkens-Castle Douglas GCT in partnership with Sustrans (Tesco) Wednesday Evenings Out (Registered Route) Return 19:00 Dalry (Underhill) 21:15 19:05 New Galloway 21:10 19:15 Mossdale 21:00 19:25 Laurieston 20:50 19:30 Townhead of Greenlaw 20:47 19:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 20:37 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:35 Booking not required Glenkens to Newton Stewart Tuesday mornings Fortnightly from 25th January 2022 Outward Pickups: Dalry (Underhill) 0930 New Galloway (Town Hall) 0935 CatStrand) 0937 To Merrick Leisure Centre and Aldi Return Pickup Newton Stewart (Aldi Car Park) 1130 Return fare £3.50 Advance booking required. Member Hire GCT has 16-, 15-, and 8-seater minibuses and a fully wheelchair accessible electric car available for hire by community organisations. For information about membership and terms and conditions of hire see the GCT website or phone 07841 512449. Thursdays from 10am CatStrand, New Galloway DRIVERS NEEDED Galloway Community Transport needs your help to provide a wide range of community transport services across the Stewartry and beyond. MINIBUS DRIVING Minibus drivers with D1 (101 or by test) are needed to do volunteer and paid driving for our wide range of member community groups. PATIENT TRANSPORT We also urgently need drivers with their own cars for our patient transport service. Our volunteer patient transport drivers receive a generous mileage reimbursement and the satisfaction of providing a vital service to vulnerable people in our communities. Interested? Email gct@catstrand.com or phone 07841 512449 Glenkens Gazette page 30 What's On Feb/Mar & Juliet, 6pm, FEBRUARY Romeo CatStrand, New Galloway Fri 4, Catstrand Burns Supper, 7.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Wed 9, Cubs 'come and try' session, at the Cub Hall, New Galloway (by the old phone box, now the Youth Booth), 6.45-8pm. For further information call Heather on 01644 420 375 Wed 9, Sacred Wells in Our Landscape; What Have We Learned? 7.30pm, Galloway Glens online event, book through www.eventbrite. co.uk Thu 10, Ken Words: Writers’ Café, 7pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Sat 12, The Paul McKenna Band, 7.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Sun 13, The Clachan Folk Session, 5-7pm, The Clachan Inn, Dalry Wed 16, Film - James Bond: No Time to Die, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Sun 20, Fullarton Theatre Bus - The Royal Ballet: Tue 22, Amorous Couples, Place Names and Steampunk: Conversations About Old Estate Maps and How to Make Them Dance! 7.30pm, Galloway Glens online event, book through www. eventbrite.co.uk Thu 24, Artists Talk Leeming Paterson: Zero Footprint, 7pm, CatStrand, New Galloway MARCH Fri 4, Suzi Cunningham presents Rules to Live by/ Eidos, 7.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Mon 7, Moishe’s Bagel, 7.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Wed 9, David Currie of Newlaw: Merchant, Smuggler & Slave Trader, 7.30pm, Galloway Glens online event, book through www. eventbrite.co.uk Fri 11, Film - Sherlock Holmes: The Speckled Band, 7pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Sat 19, Better Lives Partnership Bridge to Creative Project – Art in the Community, 12.30-3.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Tue 22, The Scottish Commonty, the Midsteeple and the Queen of Sardinia: Pondering the Past and Georeferencing Old Maps, 7.30pm, The Smiddy, Balmaclellan or book to attend online at www. eventbrite.co.uk Fri 25, Roddy Woomble, 7.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Sun 27, The Galloway Agreement - Ken Bridge Song, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Sun 27, The Glenkens Story Presents: Crossing the Ken - Bridges, Fords and Ferries, 2pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Wed 30, Haunting Tales with Mostly Ghostly, 7.30pm, Galloway Glens online event, book through www. eventbrite.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 31 REGULAR EVENTS Balmaclellan Village Hall: Tuesday Afternoon Teas, first Tues every month, to book email julia.higgins55@outlook.com Glenkens Crafters, Wed 10am2.30pm, for info contact Julia Higgins on 01644420297 Books in Balmaclellan Community Library, Mon 6-7pm, Wed 10am–12.30pm & Sat 10.30am-12.30pm Glenkens Art Group, Thur afternoons, contact Tom Leach on t_leach1@sky.com Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn: Bairn Banter; family stay & play session, 0-7 years, Sat 10-11.45am, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn CatStrand, New Galloway: Youth Volunteers, every other Monday 5.30-7.30pm, ages 12–18 'Scriptless' Drama Club, Tuesdays 5.15-6.15pm, 11-15 years Newton Stewart Bus Service to Tesco, Wednesday evenings, see p29 Art Explorers, fortnightly Saturdays, 10-11am for ages 5-8, 11.15am-12.30pm for ages 8+ CatStrand Youth Players, meet weekly to work on festival plays and an annual pantomime, contact briangm@catstrand.com New Galloway Town Hall: Crafty Corner with tea and biscuits, Mon, 2-4pm, contact Kristina on 07789 680468 Sports Evenings with indoor bowling and table tennis, Tues 7-9pm, £3, drop in or contact Ray Bridgeman on 01644 420 438 Drop-in to chat about local plans and activities with Hayley Edgar, Community Engagement Worker, Wed 1011am Gentle Yoga, Fri 5.30-6.30pm, contact kathyr64@hotmail.co.uk Informal Family Badminton, (net and racquets but no line markings), New Galloway Town Hall, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Sports in Dalry Outdoor Bowls (from April), contact Jim Hutchinson on 01644 430 639 Snooker (available 24/7), contact Gary Blissett on 01644 430 521 Indoor Bowls (available October till March), contact Gary Blissett on 01644 430 521 Badminton (available 24/7), contact Gary Blissett on 01644 430 521 Table Tennis (available 24/7), contact Gary Blissett on 01644 430 521 Tai Chi, Wed 10.30-11.30am, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Zumba, Wed 6.30-7.20pm & 7.25-8.15pm, contact samantha. rushton@hotmail.co.uk (booking essential) Martial Arts for Children, Thur 7-9pm, contact brianhilton237@ gmail.com Dalry Library & Customer Service Centre Main Street, Dalry, Tel: 01644 430 234 or 01556 502 643 Tuesday: For books and other walk-in services: 2-5pm Friday: For NEC Bus Pass and Blue Badge appointments and PCs: 11.30am – 12.30pm; for books and other walk-in services: 1 -4.30pm. Appointments can be booked in the library or on 01387 260 196. USEFUL NUMBERS: ● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000 ● Police, non-emergency: 101 ● Doctor: 01644 420 234 ● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24 ● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000 Glenkens Gazette page 32 KNOCKENGORROCH FESTIVAL IS BACK! Scotland’s leading world ceilidh, situated among the Carsphairn hills, is back! Knockengorroch Festival is set to return "music to the hills and people to the land" once more this May after a two-year gap due to the COVID pandemic. Knockengorroch is Scotland’s longest running greenfield festival and a true celebration of music, people, and the land they came from. The natural amphitheatre of the Southern Uplands of Scotland, is the perfect stage for world music. Katch Holmes, co-producer of the event, said: "Times have been tough for those involved in live music and events so we are extremely excited to be working towards this full scale festival. Our smaller event the Big Gig in September was a sell out event and a dry run for what will be our first festival since 2019. We're sure musicians and visitors alike are excited as we are to be holding our party in the hills again!" The festival has unveiled the first acts to perform at its comeback event with highly anticipated and critically acclaimed European and African based collective Afro Celt Sound System leading the line-up. Rescheduling their appearance from 2020, the collective will fill the hills of Galloway with their driving afro house, bold West African brass and exuberant electronic rhythms. They share top billing with a rare UK date for elders of traditional sound system and vinyl culture, the enigmatic French Sir James and King Johnny, aka L’Entourloop, a unique hip-hop ‘Yardie Style’ show featuring DJs, MCs, live brass and unique visual creations drawing on classic French cinema. Sunday’s closing performance on the main Bo-Airigh stage will come from Ross Ainslie and Ali Hutton’s Symbiosis, two of Scotland’s absolutely finest award-winning pipers, appearing with full five-piece band to offer a masterful blend of the old and the new; modern Scottish folk music at its mightiest! The festival will feature a series of environment and heritage workshops and activities, comedy, theatre, and arts & crafts; as well as a range of activities for younger festival-goers to get involved. Knockengorroch 2022 will take place from Thursday 19 to Sunday 22 May 2022. Weekend tickets are available now via knockengorroch. org.uk/tickets Pictured: top Knockengorroch's Bo-Airigh Stage by ReCompose. Left the festival site by Jethro Collins. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Editing & Design: sarah.ade@gmail.com APR/MAY COPY DEADLINE: 5 MAR The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No. SC032050  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 128 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_128 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource GCAT Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2022 Description An account of the resource Editor: Sarah Ade https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/274/GlenkensGazette127.pdf 9a0262c4a997b68c8bb455ba1448cd0d Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 127 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Corsock, Crossmichael, Kirkpatrick Durham, Laurieston, Mossdale, New Galloway, Parton and St John’s Town of Dalry December 2021 / January 2022 ISSUE 127 FREE From Dishwasher to 'Scottish Young Chef of the Year' Glenkens chef Fraser Cameron is celebrating a double triumph with two 'Young Chef of the Year' awards. Fraser, 24, has just won the Federation of Scottish Chefs 'Scottish Young Chef of the Year' at a live cooking final in Glasgow. This follows victory earlier this year in the CIS Young Chef of the Year competition. This is the first time both awards have come to Dumfries and Galloway in the same year. Fraser, who attended Dalry School and whose family still live in the village, found his passion for cooking aged just 14 when he started a part-time job washing dishes at the Ken Bridge Hotel. He says he knew at that point he absolutely wanted to be a chef. At school he was encouraged and well supported in this quest by his home economics teacher, Hilary Austin. Fraser also enjoyed spells working in the Lochinvar Hotel and Clachan Inn. While attending the University of the Highlands & Islands to study professional cookery at Perth College he won a scholarship to train at the Andrew Fairlie restaurant at Gleneagles as part of his studies. Following college, Fraser worked in a number of top, fine-dining restaurants in Edinburgh. In 2019 he decided to return to Dumfries and Galloway to work alongside his friend and mentor, Jonathan Brett, who was setting up the new 1610 restaurant at the Globe Inn, Dumfries. Fraser Cameron with mentor Jonathan Brett at the award ceremony. Fraser is passionate about the local produce in Dumfries and Galloway and has been a Chef Ambassador for Galloway Beef and the Galloway Cattle Society since 2018. He firmly believes that fine-dining opportunities should not be the reserve of the Central Belt when we have such quality on our own doorstep. This is reflected on the menu at the Globe Inn. Fraser is delighted that his recent awards have further highlighted what Dumfries and Galloway has to offer the culinary world. Fraser often returns to Dalry and is extremely grateful for the ongoing support and encouragement from so many people in the Glenkens. He was delighted recently to welcome a group of his former teachers to the Globe Inn and looks forward to seeing more friends, old and new, from the Glenkens. HAVE YOUR SAY ON COMMUNTY HOUSING IN THE GLENKENS The trustees of Glenkens & District Trust (GDT) read with interest the recent focus on housing in the August/ September issue of the Glenkens Gazette. Housing was raised as a priority action area in the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan, published in September 2020. Due to the pandemic, alongside changes to the energy performance rules for rentals, local housing concerns have been thrown into sharp relief and reading about these issues highlighted for GDT trustees the urgent need to focus on this area as a priority. After discussion with local stakeholders, including the Pamela Young Trust, GDT sought a proposal A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative from South of Scotland Community Housing (SOSCH) and has agreed to commission a Housing Needs and Demand Assessment (HNDA) using Blackcraig Wind Farm Community Fund monies. The process will include gathering the views of local community members as well as employers, other stakeholders and, where possible, people who have sought to move into the area but have been unable to. Turn to page 5 to find out how you can have your say... www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 REMEMBERING JIM CHALMERS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jim Chalmers on 10 September 2021. Jim was born in Brisbane, Australia, to parents without monetary wealth but an abundant wealth of love. The only devices that he had were a black and white TV shared by all, a few toys, a crystal radio he made for himself at high school and a push bike. Jim used this bike for riding to school, to visit friends and at times to explore Brisbane in the wee hours of the morning while everyone else slept. In his teenage years, Jim and his friends formed a band called The Spectres and to his parents' and neighbours' dismay, practised in the garage for hours on end. Jim’s taste for travel started early. There was a huge world out there and he wanted to see it and experience it first hand. He wanted to immerse himself in local communities across the globe. At the age of 18 he sold his belongings, filled a backpack and began his travels around Australia. A split second decision saw him jump on a flight to India and thus began his love affair with India and the Middle East. Over the years he trekked through many countries, seeing and meeting people from all walks of life. Jim trained as an acupuncturist in Brisbane, Australia, and graduated in 1988. He completed his postgraduate studies in Nanning, China in 1991. He joined the AACMA Board on his return, serving as chair of the Continuing Professional Development Committee and also as an early vice president in 1998, back in the days when the profession was struggling to become recognised and registered. Jim put in many hours and effort to further the cause of this great profession. It was through his role as CPD Committee chair that Jim met Dr Marc LeBel, who had studied under the recognised ‘father‘ of Auricular Therapy, Dr Paul Nogier. This gave rise to Jim's passion for auricular acupuncture, and led to him conducting courses worldwide and presenting at conferences. His subsequent book on this technique, Auriculotherapy Ear Acupuncture; The Practitioner's Guide, was launched at AACMAC Brisbane in 2017. After many years of living and working in Brisbane, Jim and his wife Mei followed his heart to his ancestral home and relocated to Scotland in 2003 where he continued to practice acupuncture at Crossmichael until 2020. Jim was a great practitioner and friend to many, sharing all the knowledge and techniques he had accumulated over his many years in the profession. He was loved and respected by all who came in contact with him and that is a testament to his wonderful and generous spirit, as well as his big heart. He had a wicked sense of humour too, and delivered deadpan jokes all with a twinkle in his eye! Jim leaves behind his beloved wife Mei, three children and nine grandchildren. We express our deepest appreciation to all who have reached out during our time of mourning, we are grateful for your continued love and support. Jim will be missed dearly by all who knew him. Marcia Crichton (Jim's daughter) Would You Like to Be a GCAT Trustee? The Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) has continued to grow over the last few years and is now thoroughly embedded as an anchor organisation in the wider Glenkens. There have been some new key appointments of late and we feel we are now very well placed to move forward in the next stage of our development. You’ll see an article from our new executive manager, Helen Keron, on p13. Would you like to join us and be part of our next steps? We will be looking to appoint up to three new trustees/ directors at our AGM in January. In case you are wondering, both these terms are appropriate as, whilst GCAT is a company limited by guarantee, it is also a registered charity. Last year, two new trustees joined our board and are playing an important part in developing our strategy for the future – could you support us too? We are interested in hearing from people of all ages, with all backgrounds and from all over the Glenkens – the more diverse our experience on our board, the better we can serve our community. This year we are also particularly interested in hearing from residents who have a background in the arts or are good with numbers. Apparently some people love a spreadsheet! The key thing is that you have a keen interest in what GCAT is achieving and have experience that would add to what we already have. If you are interested please give me a call on 07769 680 938 or email me on Alan.Smith12345@btinternet.com for an initial discussion. Alan Smith, Chairman, GCAT Ltd GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 Kindling available Glenkens Gazette The Great Tiger Hunt In the summer of 1972, while Jim Chalmers and I were sharing a rooftop flat in New Delhi, we came across a book entitled The Man Eaters of Kumaon by Jim Corbett. We were fascinated by the blow-byblow accounts of his hunts and, having not a lot to do at the time, we decided to go up to the Almora National Park, the scene of some of the Corbett tales, and see if we could find a man-eater to shoot. A silly idea, but we had Corbett’s precise instructions as to how to do it. Neither of us had access to firearms so we decided on bows and arrows, an even sillier idea, but by now we were fired up by our plan. We went across town to the Assam Handicrafts Emporium, bought a couple of rather small bows and some wicked-looking arrows, and set off for Almora. We spent the first night with acquaintances above the town on Cranks’ Ridge, so named for the British eccentrics who had retired there. Some were still alive and had been joined by a variety of well-known 1960s characters, including Anagarika Govinda and the groundbreaking Scottish psychiatrist RD Laing. Next morning we set off north along the ridge towards Binsar, a 7,500 foot forested mountain, which we climbed before nightfall. On the summit we were surprised to find a large British-style house with a rose garden and a stunning view of the main range of the Himalayas. A local family, who were caretaking the property, told us that it was owned by an English judge who had returned to Britain two years before. They also told us that their buffalo, on which they relied for milk, had been killed the previous night by a tiger. Our pursuit of a tiger had suddenly become very real on the first day of the hunt. There was only one place the tiger could have dragged a heavy buffalo - a rhododendron-filled gorge a few hundred yards below the house. We immediately went down to the gorge, got our archery equipment out and, in the gathering dusk, pushed our way into the dense foliage. We came out again a minute later, having realised that if the tiger appeared, we had no chance. Our concerns were not over, however, since the only place we found to spend the night was a small shrine to the Hindu god Shiva with thick, stone pillars but open on all sides. I think we slept well enough after our long trek, hoping that the tiger, even if was a man-eater, would be content with its buffalo. The following morning we found fresh leopard footprints on the trail down the mountain. Corbett had told us that leopards only kill humans at night so we decided not to sleep in open Shiva temples again. At the base of the mountain we came to a village where our tiger hunt took an exciting turn. The villagers told us two of their people had been killed by a tiger in the past month. They asked us to kill it and produced two firearms, one of which was said to work well, the other being a bit dodgy. Suitably armed, we now had to work out how we would shoot the tiger. The classic Corbett technique was to find the area where the man-eater was operating, tether a goat and sit in a tree above waiting for the beast to appear. The villagers would give us a goat and we already knew where the tiger was operating, thanks to our experience the night before. The The following morning we found fresh leopard footprints on the trail down the mountain. David Tallontire CHIMNEY SWEEP Covering the Glenkens & further afield 07709 144 299 - wood burners - multi-fuel stoves - open fires - Agas - Rayburns - birds nest removal with CCTV inspection - certificates issued - feel free to call for advice - Find me on Facebook 唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀Ⰰ 䰀漀漀猀攀 䌀漀瘀攀爀猀Ⰰ 䘀愀戀爀椀挀猀Ⰰ 䌀甀猀栀椀漀渀猀 刀攀昀椀氀氀攀搀 䘀爀攀攀 䔀猀琀椀洀愀琀攀猀 吀栀攀 圀漀爀欀猀栀漀瀀Ⰰ 䴀漀渀礀戀甀椀攀Ⰰ 䌀漀爀猀漀挀欀⸀ 䐀䜀㜀 ㌀䐀夀 眀眀眀⸀䠀愀爀爀椀猀ⴀ唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀 ㄀㘀㐀㐀 㐀㐀 㔀㈀㤀 page 3 Jim and the Shiva shrine where Robin and Jim slept. only problem was that, according to Corbett, it could take weeks of sitting in the tree before the tiger appeared, if it appeared at all. Reality finally dawned on us and, in spite of the exciting and quite unexpected prospect of actually hunting a man-eater, we decided, with regret, that we had important things to do in Delhi and were not up for spending the rest of the summer up a tree. The next night we spent in a splendid mountain cave where Shiva and his consort Parvati were said to have been married. In the morning, we had a nice cup of tea with fresh cinnamon leaves brought to us by the sadhu holy man attending the shrine. Robin Ade Jim Chalmers (see page opposite) dedicated his life to the Glenkens community as a provider of acupuncture and complementary medicine for some 20 years. This story serves as a tribute to Jim and a contribution to the record of his extensive and extraordinary travels. Robin Ade is a local artist and naturalist as well as author of Fisher in the Hills; A Season in Galloway, a widely-read personal account of his early fishing days in the Glenkens. Glenkens Gazette page 4 CatStrand Christmas Shopping Gift Shop Open 11am-4pm 7 days Late Night Shopping Thurs 25 Nov & Thurs 2 Dec 6.30–8.30pm ~ CatStrand closes for the festive season at 3pm on 23 Dec and re-opens at 11am on Wed 5 Jan ~ Christmas Panto CatStrand Youth Players present Old Mother Hubbard by Paul Reakes at CatStrand on Friday 10 Dec 7.30pm Saturday 11 Dec 7.30pm Sunday 12 Dec 3.00pm October - December 2021 HOGMANAY CEILIDH Friday 31st December 9pm - 12.30am Music from Shore Road Band and Wyrdy Women Tickets from New Galloway Community Shop from 6th December Adults £10, under 18s £5, under 5s free Stovies and oatcakes included - BYOB MARTIAL ARTS FOR CHILDREN Thursdays 7-9pm Contact brianhilton237@gmail.com ZUMBA CLASSES £5, Wednesdays 6.30-7.20pm & 7.25-8.15pm Contact samantha.rushton@hotmail.co.uk Booking essential DROP-IN TO CHAT Tickets £7 Adult/£4 u25 Hayley Edgar Community Engagement Worker in Town Hall most Wednesday mornings 10.00 11.00am to chat about local plans and activities Book at www.gcat.scot or 01644 420374 CRAFTY CORNER WITH TEA AND BISCUITS A Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from all at CatStrand! £3, Mondays 2-4pm starting 1st November Contact Kristina on 07789 680468 SPORTS EVENINGS INDOOR BOWLING OR TABLE TENNIS £3, Tuesdays 7-9pm � Contact Ray Bridgeman on 420438 GENTLE YOGA SESSIONS £5, Fridays 5.30-6.30pm Contact Kath at kathyr64@hotmail.co.uk TAI CHI Wednesdays 10.30 - 11.30 Contact Ros on 07789680468 to enquire FAMILY BADMINTON SESSIONS Informal and by arrangement - nets and racquets but no line markings - contact Ros 07749 249781 ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY SCANNING Dairy & Sucklers; Ageing, Twin & Barren Detection. Trailer system includes triplets, marking and shedding. Pregnancy and number of pups. For bookings and info: Duncan Kennedy 07860 474001 dk@passcan.co.uk www.passcan.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 5 LOOKING AT IMPROVING GLENKENS COMMUNICATIONS The Gazette has been working with the Glenkens & District Trust (GDT) on a project to identify options to develop an effective communication tool for the whole Glenkens community. This concept supports the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan 2020 where Theme 1 is 'A Connected Community'. The work was then combined with an existing Glenkens Community & Arts Trust/Glenkens Gazette project. We used an approach of desk-based research, qualitative research (in-depth interviews) and quantitative research (through a survey) to gain as much insight into the subject as possible. Desk Research We started with a review of published data on community publications. Finding the best balance between news and features is a critical decision, and there are a range of free and paid-for local communications in various media. For our purposes, we included examples with catchment areas from one village to the entire region. Qualitative research (19 in-depth interviews) We interviewed key stakeholders to scope the issue of local communications. This covered general questions on community information before gathering specific feedback on developing the Glenkens Gazette. We established that the Gazette is responses to 4-page survey) We surveyed people across the Glenkens and wider district to assess their views on wider communication issues and to gather specific feedback on the Gazette. We found that people use a variety of sources for local information. Facebook is the most popular, except for those aged 75+ who prefer local newspapers, and that smartphones are the most common device for accessing local information. A website featuring urgent local information and event details (for both attendees and organisers) was the most popular idea for improving communications. A multichannel approach will be most successful and would likely include more online and pro-active outbound communications. It was apparent that we must also take care not to exclude those who do not access information online. Next Steps GDT and GCAT are currently considering the full project reports and will hopefully have more to say about where to go from here in the next issue of the Gazette. “...there is a wide range of subjects. It's inclusive... I think that's what makes it stand head and shoulders above your average kind of community paper.” Continued from front page... The first step to SOSCH compiling this high level report will be an online survey of people’s views on what the local housing needs picture looks like, which requires as many people as possible to take part. If you’re reading this and thinking "groan - not another report/survey/ consultation!" here are five good reasons why you should take part in the online survey: 1) Lots of people have an informed view that this is an important local issue – but creating change takes evidence and a way to gather all those views together 2) An HNDA is the key that unlocks the door to strategic and funding support for community led housing initiatives – without one, no local project will be able to kick-start any serious action 3) This HNDA will cover all 10 communities covered by the GDT a well-established, trusted brand, valued for its neutrality and significant contribution to community cohesion. There was demand for providing information in a wider range of media. Many considered a community information hub (both on and off-line) to be desirable and felt that communities needed more co-ordination. Quantitative research (103 To find out more about this project email Gill at gill@catstrand.com or call 01644 420 374. area of operation – the more people take part, the more meaningful the data will be and the more chance there is of good data when chunked up by community. So if, for instance, Dalry or Crossmichael or Carsphairn wanted to use the HNDA to start its own housing project, it needs lots of people from those communities to have taken part in the research. progressing community-led housing projects. It is also a required part of the process in support of grant funding for housing delivery and securing strategic support from the Council. SOSCH is excited about this piece of work and looks forward to engaging with the Glenkens communities and a wide range of local stakeholders as we progress this work”. 4) It will also inform the work of important local charities, such as the Pamela Young Trust, to help shape their response to the evolving housing need in our area, within the boundaries of their specific purpose. We really need your input - please take 10 minutes to complete the survey, and also share among friends, family and your local community. 5) It only takes 10 minutes to fill in. Mike Staples, Chief Executive of SOSCH, says: “A Housing Needs and Demand Assessment will provide important information around shortfall in housing supply in the area and is a key first step in You can find the survey online at at www.surveymonkey. co.uk/r/GlenkensHousingSurvey For a paper copy or to get in touch regarding the survey, email stacey.sosch@outlook.com or call 07775 957 702. Fiona Smith, Chair, GDT Glenkens Gazette page 6 Glenkens Gazette page 7 Glenkens Gazette page 8 Would you like to become part of our story? There are so many ways to get involved! Drive Write We always need volunteer minibus drivers. Full training given and excellent prospects of moving into a paid role if desired. Don't fancy driving a minibus? Taking people to hospital in your own car is simple, safe and extremely rewarding. All costs are covered. The Glenkens Gazette is always looking for contributors. Whatever your age, viewpoint or experience, it all makes our newsletter as representative as possible. Consult Steward Fancy free front-row seats at some of our events?! Our stewards help to keep everyone safe and welcomed. CatStrand Arts uses a small Steering Group to consult on the upcoming Arts programme, which we look to change out regularly and be as representative as possible. Welcome Share Are you the convivial sort? You could be the friendly face of CatStrand, in the day at the front desk or behind the bar at evening events. Full training given. Have you got a skill you could pass on to others? Connecting in Communities is all about facilitating workshops and classes for the community. Jump around Join the Board The Board of Trustees drives the strategic vision of GCAT. If you have thoughts on how to move the organisation forward, do get in touch! If you love working with young people and can match their energy and creativity, CatStrand Youth Arts often needs people to help at events. For more details of all these volunteer roles or for a no-commitment chat, contact Fiona Limbrey, our Volunteer Officer, on Fiona@catstrand.com or 01644 420 374 Glenkens Gazette page 9 SUSTAINABLE LOCAL FOOD PRODUCTION IN THE GLENKENS As reported in previous issues, Propagate, a collective specialising in community food work, have been conducting a local food scoping study building on the local food economy actions identified in the Glenkens Community Action Plan. The first stage of the study - which included survey responses, focus groups and discussion with local producers, shops, hospitality and supply chain operators - is now completed, and clear key strands have emerged. As a result, three projects have been outlined as next steps in developing robust, sustainable local food production and distribution in the Glenkens - these project outlines were presented at the Glenkens Local Food Feast in Dalry Town Hall as part of Glenkens Food Month 2021, where 25 people were treated to a sit-down three-course meal in which 95% of the ingredients were sourced within 25 miles. Project Outline 1: Food Education in Schools. A clear theme identified in the study was increasing awareness of the importance of local food production and agriculture. The aim of this project will be to engage schools in the Glenkens in a well thought out and planned food education programme for an academic year. Project Outline 2: Hyper Local Supply Chain. In response to the needs identified for a single point of ordering and a weekly delivery, both for households, shops and hospitality, this project will create a pilot for a local food distribution hub. Appropriate ordering systems will be put in place – online and by phone – which will likely build on the existing system used monthly for the Producer Market. A unit will be sought locally in a village central to the area with capacity to store food safely, and electricity for cold storage. Customers will be able to place weekly orders, products will be collected from local food producers, sorted at the unit and then delivered to customers. Project Outline 3: Community Farm. The study showed an overwhelming demand for increased locally and organically produced vegetables and fruit, and enthusiasm for developing a small (between 5-10 acres) Community Supported Agriculture project to help meet this. This would also meet the needs identified for training, education, skills development and local jobs. This would provide for vegetable production, areas managed for nature and biodiversity, and possible small-scale low-density livestock. Beekeeping and other rural skills will be integrated. At Barmurrie Farm, Balmaclellan, one of Gillian Smith's beef Growers will be cows grazes in a field of meadowgrass and wildflowers. Gillian employed to manage also offers Treats from the Courtyard on the Glenkens Food Hub (see ad on back page). the garden areas and a coordinator will need to be in place to oversee the farm and are policies controlled by the Scottish put educational, training and outreach Government. However, by engaging programmes. with existing structures such as the Conversations with landowners, Dumfries and Galloway Sustainable Food producers and partner organisations are Partnership, we can represent the views already underway to kick-start some of the Glenkens and help to shape and of these projects. A funding application influence regional policy. Additionally, has been submitted to network local there are opportunities to engage with fruit and vegetable producers and build the current and future consultations capacity to enable participation in a local that will inform national policy by the supply chain. Scottish Government. By building a It is clear from the surveys and good food network in the Glenkens we conversations that people in the can act as a collective voice and have Glenkens are very enthusiastic about our seat at the table. the idea of working cooperatively for the The work involved in the Glenkens benefit of the wider community. People Local Food Scoping Study has been understand the challenges around funded by the Glenkens and District producing and accessing local food, but Trust and the Prince’s Countryside Fund. there is a clear desire to tackle some of The full report can be accessed at these big issues. www.propagate.org.uk/glenkens-foodOf course, there are larger issues hub here that can only be addressed on a Abi Mordin regional or national level. For example, abi@propagate.org.uk land reform and agricultural payments Glenkens Gazette page 10 Glenkens - Producers' Market Shop online: www.ballardsbutchers.co.uk Email: shop@ballardsbutchers.co.uk Tel: 01556 502 501 Free Local Delivery Tues & Fri (orders over £20) Wide Variety of Local Produce Butcher Meat Fruit & Veg Milk & Bread Available to order 2nd Saturday Monthly Dalry Town Hall, 10am-1pm - 11th December & 8th January - Click & Collect online with the Glenkens Food Hub at https:// openfoodnetwork.org.uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop or just visit us on the day - for further details call 07776 034 260 entry by donation on the door (15 miles from Castle Douglas on A713) Glenkens Gazette page 11 Connecting in Communities Since the easing of COVID restrictions, more ‘face to face’ Connecting in Communities (CiC) activities are taking place around the Glenkens. photography group meeting weekly, kettle bells fitness at Balmaclellan Village Hall and yoga at the CatStrand. Please visit www.gcat.scot for further information on these and more CiC activities. One of the many popular events during lockdown was our weekly online quiz (pre-COVID, this was the New Galloway pub quiz). This proved to be, and still is, a lifeline for many participants with some people joining from as far afield as Holland and France. Unbeknown to the team, the quiz was nominated and Some of these include self-led tai chi became a winner of BTs 'Unbreakable' at the Smiddy and Dalry Town Hall, a competition for ‘service to the community during lockdown’, with a prize of a live Zoom call with Sophie Ellis-Bextor! The quiz is on Wednesdays at 8pm and is open to all get in touch with Chris for a Zoom link to join. The Glenkens Men’s Shed is once again in full swing. Not only was our Shed the first in Dumfries & Galloway, it’s undoubtably the finest and also one of the greenest - so, if you’ve never been, now is a great time to come and Electric car charger situated behind the Men's Shed/ take a look! The Shed is open Smiddy in Balmaclellan, free for the community to on Mondays, Wednesdays use 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. and Fridays from 9.30am to 12.30pm and again on Wednesday afternoons from 2pm to 4pm, with this later session offering wood turning and carving. Not only does the Shed look fantastic with its smart insulated cladding, new roof and solar panels, it now boasts stateof-the-art radiant heaters, batteries to store solar power, a brand-new car park and free electric vehicle charging points. The chargers aren’t just for the Shed though - they’re available for visitors and the wider community too. CiC were thrilled to be awarded £13,300 from the People’s Post Code Trust to allow us to provide more activities and events around the Glenkens. We would love to hear from you if you have anything in particular you would be interested in taking part in. Finally, CiC has been identified as a suitable medium through which to roll out the ‘Green Glenkens’ element of the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan. The project is still in development but we have a number of exciting ideas. If you are interested in being involved please contact Fiona on fiona@catstrand. com or call 01644 420 374. You can also email Brian at brian@ catstrand.com or Chris at chris@ catstrand.com, or feel free to call on 01644 420 374. Brian Jones Main distributor for Cheval Liberte and Debon in South West Scotland. We specialise in all sizes of horse trailers, tipping and box trailers. Viewings welcome by appointment. www.dgtrailersales.co.uk sales@dgtrailersales.co.uk 01644 717 394 Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP Solicitors and Estate Agents Dumfries & Galloway 01556 503744 www.ggblaw.co.uk All legal advice Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie Kirkcudbright and Dumfries Glenkens Gazette page 12 An Underrated Mystery Novelist: JOSEPHINE TEY Many years ago I picked up a book in Wigton by Miss Tey and was enchanted by the plot and how well written it was. Before the full benefits for book lovers of the internet were available, it was more difficult to add further novels to a collection. Scouring bookshops, bookfairs and charity shops were the main avenues to be explored for out-of-print classics. Nowadays a simple click on ebay or Amazon will bring most books to the door in a few days. Josephine Tey [real name Elizabeth Mackintosh] was born in Inverness and spent some time as a teacher in both Scotland and England before returning home to run her father’s house. Val McDermid enjoyed her work, describing them as, ‘brilliant unconventional crime novels’. She wrote eight mystery novels, many with Inspector Grant featuring. Perhaps the two most well known are The Franchise Affair and Daughter of Time. My personal preference is more towards A Shilling For Candles or The Man In The Queue. The books NOW ONLINE! are not quite cosy mystery novels as they usually touch upon some raw human emotions such as jealousy and emotional scars. However, the touch is sufficiently light in this respect. We can catch rather more than a glimpse of the frustration of a women called back from a career and an independent life to the frustration and tedium of domestic life and family duty in the 1920s in her books. However her writing did bring some considerable benefits. She was wealthy, she wrote plays, one of which was a West End success, she helped to make the career, and keep the friendship, of John Gielgud. In recent years the author Nicola Upson has used Miss Tey as the main character in a series of mystery novels. They really are very enjoyable and are best read in sequence. The first, An Expert in Murder, provides a valuable insight into many aspects of Miss Tey’s life in Inverness, her desire to sample a more broad-minded city, her West End success and complex emotional life. Finally, there are some excellent radio adaptions and audiobooks of Tey’s novels and even two television dramas available on YouTube. Bruce Smith A Robin's Supper The robin chipped, the least of his modest calls that only a gardener would notice. ORDER ONLINE OR BY PHONE Fleet Fish source a large selection of top quality fish, fruit and vegetables from market place to your door. We also stock chicken, sausages and cold meats plus eggs, milk and cheese. Much more than a fish van! Order before 9pm Sunday for delivery the following Friday 07966 103 912 charliecoid@hotmail.com www.fleet-fish.co.uk Amidst the cacophony of sparrows settling to the dusk in the nearby hedge, the robin stood aloof. At the highest and nearest point, he looked down at me. I called “hello robin” and he knew. I turned another sod but found nary a worm, the flatworms had had them all. Feeling guilt and shame for failing to provide the fee to the gardener’s friend, I raided the pot of varied food that my partner kept for the flocks that came every day. I strew barely a handful of fat and seeds in supplication. Never one for a feast, the robin was at my feet and took but a few of the finest morsels and then was gone, leaving the rest for those who wanted an early breakfast. IG Glenkens Gazette page 13 CatStrand Highlights There is a lot going on in December as the Glenkens celebrates the festive season in style. We kick off the festive season on Friday 3 December with The Sugar Revue, a burlesque and cabaret show which returns to the CatStrand promising a "fun-packed sexy stocking filler of a Christmas show". Grab your tickets quickly for the very popular and hilarious Youth Players Panto, Old Mother Hubbard, that is being staged on Friday 10, Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 December. Join local bird expert Chris Rollie in Dalry for the Winter Voices Poetry Walk organised by Ken Words on Sunday 12 December. To warm up after the walk what could be better than joining the Clachan Inn Folk Session led by Ollie Rigg, Michael Muir (Muckle Spree) and Lucy Smith. On Saturday 18 December, Balmaclellan has its own Christmas play, A Christmas Carol. This classic Dickens tale has been adapted as a spooky, funny, intimate and heartwarming twoperson production by Neil Paterson and Jilly Henderson. On Sunday 19 CatStrand will showcase two Christmas classic films. Earlier in the day there will be a relaxed screening of Elf for young folk and their grown-ups, where tutting is strictly forbidden and laughing out loud is encouraged. This is followed by some 'own time' for the grown-ups with a viewing There will be a relaxed family-friendy screening of the Christmas of It’s a classic, Elf, on Sunday 19 December. Wonderful Life, complete our finest younger singer songwriters. with mulled wine and a mince pie. He is highly regarded for his powerful yet Looking ahead to 2022, there are a intensely emotive voice and passionate few shows worth booking ahead for... social conscience. Friday 28 January sees Auld Lang Finally, we are very excited that on Syne, Mairi Campbell's critically Monday 7 March we will be hosting acclaimed music theatre show, hitting Moishe’s Bagel with some thrillingly the CatStrand stage. This performance original cutting-edge klezmer and world explores the meaning of one of the folk music from a selection of Scotland’s world’s most performed songs through finest musicians. As The Scotsman the lens of Mairi’s rich experience. A puts it, they "put the ‘class’ into funny and heartfelt show resonates with ‘unclassifiable'." wider universal truths. To book any of these events or find out On Saturday 12 February The Paul more visit www.gcat.scot McKenna Band will hit the stage. Paul Peter Renwick McKenna has long been ranked among FIRST FEW WEEKS IN POST At the time of writing, I have been in post as the executive manager for the Glenkens Community and Arts Trust for three weeks, and it’s been quite the three weeks! My focus has been on listening and understanding the details of the organisation from its staff and some of our volunteers, all of whom are doing a fantastic job of delivering our many projects to support the communities of the Glenkens. As part of that, we have created a graphic of the evolution of GCAT over the last 15 years or so. This was fascinating to pull together and demonstrates the amazing growth of the organisation. We stand here now as a stable and mature organisation, ready to support our communities with the present and future challenges of remote-rural living and the national and global context. In the coming months I want to hear from many more people about how we can best do this, so if you would like a cup of tea and a chat about your priorities for our communities, do drop me a line on helen@catstrand.com or 01644 420 374. This also ties in perfectly with the other element of my role, which is to lead and support the community to deliver the priorities set out in the Glenkens and District Community Action Plan (CAP). As we move into the next phase of delivery of the plan, partnership working between all our amazing community organisations across the area will be key, and I want to start talking to as many of them as possible to start that process. I will of course be working closely with Glenkens & District Trust and their CAP steering group during this process. I feel that we are at a key point of transformation for our communities. We have such community spirit and live in such a beautiful part of the country, but the challenges that COVID brought have disproportionately affected some members of our communities, and have highlighted the challenges of remote-rural living for everyone. The good news is that we are supported structurally by wellestablished community organisations, as well as by our partners in Dumfries & Galloway Council, Third Sector Dumfries & Galloway and South of Scotland Enterprise, and also that we have access to our own funds in the form of community benefit. If we work together to deliver our community aspirations, there is no reason why we cannot overcome these challenges and access the undoubted rewards of living in the wider Glenkens together. So do please be in touch (individuals as well as organisations) and we will see where we can get to! Helen Keron, Executive Manager, GCAT Working towards Glenkens Gazette page 14 OUR CLIMATE & BIODIVERSITY FUTURE The Galloway Glens Scheme is working really hard with partners to play our part in tackling the Climate & Biodiversity challenges that we all face, changing habits and reducing consumption. Dumfries & Galloway Council has set the ambitious target of being a net zero carbon region by 2025. With the COP26 Climate Change Conference taking place in Glasgow, this is a chance to review milestones from within the Galloway Glens Scheme so far... More than 12,000 electric vehicle miles travelled carsphairn 1,400 We’re all in this together, contact us with any queries you may have on climate or biodiversity and we will help or point you in the right direction. hectares of Galloway landscape under active management Supporting the Loch Ken Trust’s ʻLOCH KEN PLAN’, dalry aligning work around Loch Ken with all 17 of the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals overseeing the THE CLIMATE READY KEN PROJECT, loch ken ‘Galloway Footsteps’ events committed to 1,900 fewer pieces of single-use plastic and a saving of tonnes of carbon Supporting National Trust for Scotland’s ground-breaking ʻTHREAVE LANDSCAPE RESTORATION PROJECT’ John Muir awards achieved, educating young people in the natural world castle douglas 11,000 The Galloway Glens Scheme is an initiative of the Council’s Environment Team. designing an adaptation toolkit for the Loch Ken community in the face of climate change native trees planted across the region by March 2022 Dedicated projects to support 3 of the Biosphere’s 37 school sessions undertaken by the Kirkcudbright HIGH FOCUS SPECIES PRIMARY FUNDER: THE GALLOWAY GLENS SCHEME IS OVERSEEN BY A PARTNERSHIP BOARD, INCLUDING: CRICHTON CARBON CENTRE’S ‘Biosphere Explorers’ education project Keep up to date with our latest news: WWW.GALLOWAYGLENS.ORG Glenkens Gazette page 15 Youth Players Christmas Panto After missing out last year, the CatStrand Youth Players are delighted to be back on stage again with their 2021 panto Old Mother Hubbard. The last public performances from the group were at The Fullarton Theatre in March 2020 as the senior team won the Open Drama Festival in style with their acclaimed production of Henna Night. Unfortunately, lockdown soon intervened and further progress in the next round of the Scottish Community Drama Association (SCDA) competition was denied. Now, 21 long months later, the curtain will finally rise on a Youth Players show again! The hilarious story of Old Mother Hubbard unfolds in great style in the story from the pen of Paul Reakes with the characters brought to life by many of the Youth Player ‘veterans’ ably supported by some new faces. With her cupboards all bare once again and with her and her family facing eviction, a stroke of good fortune leads to the Hubbards being granted a wish by the Good Fairy. In true panto fashion, Mother Hubbard wishes that they could be transported to America to find her long lost brother Ossie, who has supposedly made lots of money in the ranching business in the Wild West. Of course, it isn’t all straight forward and all kinds of antics are thrown into the mix by the ‘baddies’ - Matt Vinyl and his sidekicks Hank and Jake while the Hubbards enlist the help of friendly locals - Old Tumbleweed, Tex Laramie and Little Deer - in their quest to find Ossie. The Hubbard’s dog Dandy is the real hero in the end, though, as Ossie is finally discovered in unusual circumstances in Big Chief Thundercloud’s camp! It’ll be great to welcome audiences back to the Christmas panto once again - but please book your tickets early to avoid missing out as they're selling fast! Brian, CatStrand Youth Players Neil Paterson can be commissioned to do cartoons for special events and occasions such as retirements, birthdays, weddings, etc. To get in touch email pater5365@yahoo.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 16 Why Have Community Councils? With Kells Community Council in real danger of being dissolved due to lack of members, the Gazette felt it may be a good time to reprint some of the thought-provoking piece written by Kerry Morrison, deputy chair of Dalry Community Council, which was printed in the June/July issue of the Gazette. With open curiosity, I began to attend [community council meetings] every month. I learned about upcoming applications for wind farms and the wind farm community funding. I observed how members discussed issues and took decisions for actions based on votes. I soon became aware of the good work that the community council does for the community, like the winter emergency shed, which contains simple yet necessary items should we need them in times of extreme cold weather and power cuts. Meetings are often quite matterof-fact. Issues are discussed and acted upon. Some issues are quite mundane, yet crucial, like checking the salt bins are stocked up in winter; others, more pressing. Dalry Community Council acted swiftly in March 2020 when the country went into lockdown making sure the people of Dalry, especially the elderly and those with disabilities, people living alone and lower income families, had much-needed support. In all, community councils attend to the ongoing nuts-and-bolts needs of a community, as well as more complex issues. Until I attended the meetings, I didn’t know what community councillors got up to. I discovered that they are a bunch of involved and engaged individuals who get stuck in. They do this as volunteers. However, if no one volunteers, we risk losing our community councils, which are vital assets for our rural towns and communities. Our voices are heard and represented through our community councils, and community councils do make a difference. I thought I would write this because, even though meetings are open to all, very few people actually attend. Perhaps it is because they aren’t all that thrilling all of the time. However, they are informative and they are spaces for positive action. Over the past months, during which we've been dealing with the COVID pandemic and lockdowns, restricted movement and social distancing, I’ve experienced important things getting done, things that have made a difference. I am proud to be a part of this hard working group of dedicated individuals. To find out more about your local Community Council, visit https://info. dumgal.gov.uk/CommunityCouncils (Dee & Glenkens is Ward 3; click to open the list of community councils, then click on your town or village for a contact email). The Royal Burgh New Galloway & Kells Community Council needs more members - if nobody new joins, Kells Community Council will be dissolved in April 2022. If you live in Kells parish, or live outwith the area but would like to support our community council (we are in dire need of someone with some accountancy skills, and can recruit from outwith the parish for this, taking someone on as an associate member), please get in touch with community council secretary, Sharon Fishwick, or bandsfish@gmail.com D&G Virtual Operations Team Many of us were affected by the severe weather and flooding at the end of October, with some folks effectively cut off and many others wondering whether they would be able to make journeys given the number of road closures across the region. It was incredibly helpful to be able to check out the road network on the Dumfries & Galloway Virtual Operations Team (DGVOST) website www.dgvost.uk - with regular updates on which roads were closed, where you would need to tackle a flood, and which roads were at risk of closing soon. What is DGVOST? This site is an important communication tool that is only activated during emergency situations. It is highly effective for spreading accurate information to the general public in real time. Key safety messages are issued through the website and across social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook. Information is gathered from a wide range of sources, including through media and information shared by the general public. Even though the site is only active in emergency situations, it is a good idea to bookmark the page on your browser, or write it down, for future reference. Local Resilience Teams It’s also worth noting that most of our local community councils have resilience teams and it can be a good idea to make yourself familiar with your local community council contact for this. You can find details for your area using the new locator map online, which you can find at www. dglocator.org.uk/dgResilience There’s also lots of helpful information about other organisations and information on volunteering with resilience groups in your community. It's worth noting that community resilience teams don’t necessary kick into action every time there’s flooding, mind you - it depends on the nature and severity of the situation. Morag Paterson Glenkens Gazette page 17 GLENKENS MUSINGS Ah, the festive period has come around again. It's funny to think that a year ago I submitted my first piece to the Gazette - this was the first time I had let people read something I had personally written, and it was something I’d never thought I would do. I suppose the most dominant theme of this year has to be something that has occurred for all of us change. It's actually quite a unique and comical thing if you really think about what it means. And during the past couple of years, it has happened so often it has probably broken records. But why are we told again and again to 'embrace' change? To be really quite honest, I would in a heartbeat rewind back to 2019 if I knew what was going to happen to our lives. I would go back to the years that I truly enjoyed and could do absolutely anything I wanted without consequences - within reason of course! Unfortunately, and regrettably, that simply isn’t possible. We are in too far and too deep to turn back. So, what can we do to improve the scary and uncertain aspects that can come with change? We could pretend that it doesn’t exist and believe everything is still all hunkydory but perhaps that could throw up more complications rather than solutions. No, the only way, in my opinion, is to simply just go with it. I know that sounds rather blunt but in these current times you really can’t be getting engrossed in all the little things that could or couldn’t work. And, like I’ve said countless times before, you’ll become so bogged down with the different theories circulating round your brain that you will spiral out of control, and it's just not worth it anymore. Who has the time?! Going with it will just make things easier for everyone and that is what you have to remember; it is affecting everyone, not just yourself. Go at your own pace and don’t get paranoid about what could go wrong. Life is full of glitches and struggles but, strangely, I find that exciting because otherwise life would be boring and not a challenge. Go on and be adventurous. Live the life you were given. I hope you have a very happy Christmas and I hope all you do in 2022 brings you joy and success. James Wallace The Old Man and the Captain This short story won this year's national Cranked Anvil Flash Fiction competition. It was September 1945, two weeks after the Japanese surrender. The Captain stood looking out of the turret of his Sherman tank as they moved cautiously through the obliterated village. A single truck followed the tank and a platoon of soldiers, with rifles at the ready, accompanied them. The men were in two lines, one to the left side of what passed for a road, and one to the right. A soldier would occasionally raise his rifle and aim it if something moved, usually it was a rat or a dog but sometimes a person who would skulk away when they were spotted. Ahead of them was the remains of a building, out of line with the others, it jutted out into the road covering the left half of it. All of the buildings had been made of wood and were burnt and blackened by bombing. It had rained recently so the village smelled of wet charcoal and unpleasant things which the soldiers tried to ignore. In the centre of the road, in front of the building, stood a frail old man holding what looked like a vintage flintlock rifle; not aiming it threateningly, but holding it diagonally across his chest as if in defiance. The Captain halted the column and sent for the interpreter. A young Japanese boy came forward from the truck, his head bowed and with an air of apprehension. “Go to the old man, find out what he wants, and why he will not let us pass.” The interpreter bowed “yes, sir!” and scuttled forward. The interpreter bowed deeply to the old man. The old man bowed in return, but less deeply. Words were exchanged in Japanese. The interpreter bowed again and returned to the Captain. “Sir, he says this is…” he seemed to be looking for the words “a respectful place of dead people. And he will defend it with his life.” The Captain considered his position. He could order the man to be shot; he was after all armed. He could order his men to drag the old man to one side and confiscate the antique firearm, but he chose a third way. He issued an instruction to his Sergeant and then said to the interpreter “go back to the old man and tell him that we will honour his respectful place of dead people and mark it so that no Americans will enter.” The interpreter did as he was bid. The Sergeant took two men, erected a line of white tape around the ruined building and placed a sign, front and centre. The column began to move off, being careful to all move over to the right. The old man stepped back to let them pass. The Captain nodded to the old man, which may have looked like a bow, and the old man gave a salute. The men looked at the newly erected red triangle sign as they passed, with its skull and crossbones and the word MINEFIELD. Paul Goodwin EXPERIENCED CARER REQUIRED To be part of a small team providing daily care (personal care) for an elderly lady in the Glenkens. Flexible hours, approx 2 hours/day at £13/hour. Contact: kate.e.adamson@gmail.com Glenkens Gazette page 18 Glenkens Gazette page 19 Glenkens Gazette page 20 PROTECTING OUR SPECIAL PLACES: Pollution Protecting special places concerns protecting wellbeing and assuring community sustainability. That said, everyone has different ideas about what this means as we all have differing needs. A neighbour of mine had to produce five varieties of milk at the breakfast table in order to satisfy the health needs of her visiting extended family. Catering for the needs of variety is a tricky business. She solved this particular problem by telling them to bring their own milk. Similarly, as members of the Glenkens community, we need to bring our own ideas on wellbeing to the community table. Each of us understands our own threshold in terms of allergy or intolerance to certain phenomena. However, in community terms we may talk about this in terms of pollution. Nobody wants pollution, least of all in their own back yard, but there are plenty of developers who will push us to tolerate it. I would argue that it is up to every community to set a limit on acceptable pollution levels in their environment - we should not be forced to accept what we know to be unhealthy. I was raised in a city within a very An example of local pollution - the wind farm laydown area by Carsphairn village. urbanised extended family and what I consider to be noise, light and air pollution today is life itself to many of my nearest and dearest. In the time I have lived in this community I have learned that the majority of my resident neighbours cherish primarily peace, nature and dark skies. These are all qualities akin to the outgoing pastoral community. Now that our governing bodies are pushing towards the industrialisation of the Glenkens, our special places are in danger of being used as a landfill site for all the pollutants known to the urban environment. Of all the pollutants, it is perhaps the hidden pollutant of insidious corruption that is the most damaging of all. Corruption seeks to persuade us that the many things that we know to be bad for our health are simply a figment of our imagination. Photo of the Issue In order to live peacefully together we must manage our levels of community pollution and understand the needs of those who live alongside us. The nature of any animal is to move away from intolerable pollution. The nature of abuse is to continue to enforce pollution on any animal whose movement is restricted. When we endeavour to protect our special places, we endeavour to mitigate abuse. We are right to feel a need to protect the places in which we find a sense of wellbeing, whether that is a peaceful glade or a noisy music venue. To discuss this, we must understand the fluidity of pollution, tolerance levels and the nature of corrupting forces. And to do this, we must come together as a community rich in variety of opinion and respect for others. Fiona Clubb Sponsored by the Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Company This issue’s winner is Lynn Stewart with this gorgeous shot titled 'Balmaclellan Sunset'. Lynn wins two portions of mac & cheese of her choice from our competition sponsors, the Balmaclellan-based Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Co. Company owner and competition judge, Hannah Gould, said: "Having grown up running around the hills of Balmaclellan this is a view I've seen many times. Match it up with a stunning sunset and it's a view that takes your breath away every time. If you don't have much time, always make time for a Balmaclellan sunset..." To enter you can send in any photograph taken in the Glenkens to glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 21 Blackcraig Wind Farm Fund Drop-in Thanks to all who dropped in to see us despite the inclement weather at Dalry Town Hall on 5 November. The aim of the event was to share learning and celebrate the work supported by the fund to date, and some great conversations were had and connections made. There were engaging stalls on display from funded projects such as the impressive range of energy efficiency measures installed at the Glenkens Mens Shed which have enabled reduced running costs, shared energy supply and a reduced carbon footprint; the Loch Ken Trust, who received an award to help pilot the incredibly successful Ranger’s post, which helps protect and promote our community’s natural heritage; the work led by Corsock Village Hall to survey the community owned assets in the area and their facilities and needs so that local halls and other facilities can join forces to optimise use of these buildings; Propagate CIC came along with their recent report which proposes food education, a hyper local supply chain for local produce and a community farm as vital next steps to having a more joined up local food system and increased local food production; Dalry Town Hall Committee showcased their funded film The Glenkens Rising which was commissioned to promote our local heritage and help attract visitors interested in Covenanting history into the Town Hall and the village’s facilities. Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) projects Ken Words and the Glenkens Gazette highlighted the value of connected communities and some of the innovative ways these connections are being made and supported locally. We were also really lucky to have support organisations on hand whose role is to help people build ideas into projects, and projects into successes, such as Community Land Scotland, Third Sector Dumfries & Galloway, Home Energy Scotland, the Moniaive Initiative, GCAT and South of Scotland Community Housing (see front page article). Finally we also launched a new report providing an update on how the fund has been used in its first two years of grant-making, which you can view at https://tinyurl.com/blackcraigat2 or email suzy@foundationscotland.org.uk for a copy. Don’t forget the next round of applications closes on 10 January with decisions in mid-March, so do get in touch if you would like to find out more about the application process - https:// www.glenkenstrust.org.uk/funding Suzy Mercer, Community Funds Manager for Blackcraig, Foundation Scotland ARTISTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT Jilly Henderson & Neil Paterson Having just moved to Dumfries & Galloway from the seaside town of Arbroath, on the east coast of Scotland, artists Jilly Henderson and Neil Paterson have found themselves inspired by the Glenkens area. Jilly Henderson has been a selfemployed artist for over 30 years. She graduated from DJCAD in Dundee with an honours degree in graphic design and printmaking. Jilly says: “Neil and I moved down here to experience a complete change. After lockdown we realised that life is precious and short, so we set in motion our dream to live in the countryside with a remote vibe but somewhere with things going on”. At the moment Jilly is working on a series of framed original ink artworks to be exhibited in the Gallery at Laurieston. She also encourages commissions from people for ink portraits of their houses, which are a really lovely and unique gift idea. “I have just completed an original mosaic artwork on the front wall of our new house in Balmaclellan," says Jilly. "I love working outdoors and so this was an opportunity to showcase my work plus meet some of our neighbours as they saw the work progress over a number of days”. Neil Paterson uses his knowledge of different art styles and working stone to create sculptures that have been commissioned for public spaces in Angus and Dundee as well as for private gardens and gifts. He carves in sandstone, marble and granite and is always on the lookout for suitable old stone that he can 'recycle' into a sculpture. One of his more challenging commissions was for a bagpipe-playing bear, representing the pipe tune The Black Bear. A recent commission has been to carve two squirrels chasing each other around a recycled sandstone roof ridge tile for a private garden in Balmaclellan. Neil says: "'I enjoy helping people to realise their ideas in stone. Aside from ornamental work, stone is a wonderful medium for memorials commemorating happy events such as weddings and anniversaries and for sadder times such as the passing of a family member, friend or pet. For gifts I usually have something in stock - the highland cow is always a popular design, but I'm also open to commissions." Neil is also a cartoonist (see p15) as well as a songwriter and performer, and he would love to meet and play with other musicians locally so would like to shout-out to anyone interested to get in touch! Neil can be contacted through his Facebook page @Neil Paterson Stonecarver Balmaclellan or at www. patersonstonecarving.co.uk/home Neil and Jilly are enjoying throwing themselves with enthusiasm into Glenkens community life. Jilly’s work can be found in her Etsy online gallery plus look out for updates on future exhibitions on her Facebook and Instagram pages @ JillyHendersonArtist or email; jillyhoo@ outlook.com Neil and Jilly are looking forward to presenting their family friendly adaptation of Dickens' A Christmas Carol at Balmaclellan Village Hall on 18 December at 7pm - tickets for this event can be bought from Balmaclellan Village Shop or CatStrand. Glenkens Gazette page 22 sponsored by If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk FREE FOR SALE WANTED Electric lawmower and grass box. Contact: Ian on 07840 506 516 Elite Care wheelchair, suitable for large person, barely used. £100. Contact: 07521 902 567 Chest freezer. Contact: Tony on 07507 704 821 Three-seater IKEA Karlanda sofa, approx 7ft long, with spare set of covers. The sofa is light blue/grey, and the spare covers are mustard yellow. New Galloway. Contact: 07763170098 POLO 1.2 TSI SE, petrol bluemotion, 78,506 miles. VW MOT & serviced until 5 October 2022, full VW service history. £5,400 ono. Contact: 01644 430 373 Horse manure (including some chicken manure), rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 Old lawn mowers/strimmers/ other small machinery. Non-runners/broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 2 x queen size mattresses. 1 sofa (preferably a sofa bed). Contact: Sarah on 07453 858 505 or saraheathomas@gmail.com HOME WANTED IN THE GLENKENS We are seeking to buy a home with 2-3 bedrooms and 3-5 acres of land, somewhere in the Glenkens. We've been here for almost two years renting, are active in the local community and want to put down roots. Anywhere and any condition considered - please help us to stay in the Glenkens! Contact: Abi and Bruce on 07340 531506 or abi@mordin.net Wright’s Shop & Post Office Dalry Licensed convenience store and newsagent stocking a range of local suppliers. - We would like to thank all our customers for their continued support and pass on best wishes for the Festive season Festive Season Opening Times: Christmas Eve: 7am - 5pm Christmas Day: closed Boxing Day: 8.30am - 2pm Hogmanay: 7am - 5pm 1st January: closed 2nd January: 8.30am - 2pm Normal Opening Times (both shop & PO): Monday to Friday: 7am – 6pm Saturday: 8am – 6pm Sunday: 8.30am – 4pm Galloway gifts & wreaths in stock Tel: 01644 430 225 Glenkens Gazette page 23 sponsored by Natural Power Gains Carbon Neutral Plus Status The Glenkens based renewable energy consultancy and service provider, Natural Power, has achieved Carbon Neutral Plus certification, delivering on its commitment to the environment. Natural Power has its own internal environmental committee, Green Space, which not only calculated the whole company’s carbon footprint for 2019 and 2020, but has had this verified by an external auditor, Carbon Footprint, an independent organisation that helps businesses provide a robust demonstration of low carbon credentials. Having established the data, Natural Power has carefully selected and purchased offsets for its entire carbon footprint for 2019 and 2020. As an international renewable energy business, having worked on projects in more than 60 countries and with ambitions to expand support for customers internationally, Natural Power carefully selected and purchased offsets from projects in Europe (UK), Africa (Kenya), Asia (India) and the Americas (Brazil and Aruba). Each of these is verified to the highest standards, such as Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), to guarantee the emissions reductions. As the business continues to grow, it will deliver upon a certified carbon reduction plan with the aim to continue reducing emissions and become a net zero organisation in 2023. Natural Power was founded in 1995 with a drive to create a better environment for future generations. On its mission to live and breathe green energy, it designed and built its own eco-office with power from renewable sources, heat from ground source and water from underground aquifers. The Green House is located at Forrest Estate, outside Dalry. Natural Power moved its head office to The Green House in 2000 and has since proved that high value jobs can be created (and sustained) in rural areas. Today, it is a global business employing more than 400 staff across 14 international offices, with 120 people employed in and around the Glenkens. The team has delivered projects in more than 50 countries, amounting to almost 215,000 MW of installed capacity – enough to potentially power more than 134 million homes annually. Glenkens Gazette page 24 The Optimistic Environmentalist A Guilt-free Sleep, a Rant and Something for Christmas... I get frustrated that whatever you do, there is always something that you can do better to reduce your carbon emissions. This also gives me hope though because it makes me realise how much we could all do. In April, we bought a new mattress. We spent a lot of money on it because I get so hot at night and I have Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis so my joints are very painful. Two of these mattresses failed, i.e. they became more dented and misshapen than our old one, within days. Going for a different replacement, to our great delight, we were told about an environmental option. All new Harrison Spinks mattresses are fully foam-free (foam cannot be recycled), glue free and FR (flame retardant) chemical treatment free. Special flexible micro springs replace the need for foam. They use traditional weaving methods with state-of-the-art weaving looms, creating a breathable and FR chemical free mattress, some of which is made from wool from their own sheep, farmed in Yorkshire. At the same farm they grow hemp and flax for the mattresses too. All of the wood they use in the headboards and divans is sourced from sustainably managed forests that are FSC certified including wood from their own responsibly managed woodland. This makes the beds recyclable - at the end of their lives, they are taken apart by the company and are 100% reused - the company "re-fibernise" the polyester fillings into next generation materials and melt down the springs for reuse. Thus, their up-to-date products are entirely recyclable, reusable and nothing goes to landfill. The company also constantly looks at everything they do from the pens they write with, to the trucks that deliver their products. This is not free advertising, but it shows what can be done when companies Feeling stressed? Peace and quiet can be hard to find during the frantic countdown to Christmas… In order to help, St Margaret’s church in New Galloway is offering an escape from the stresses of the world during December. put their mind to it. I feel stupid not to have thought to look into such a large purchase before we bought it. I must admit, though, that I assumed that there would not be much we could do apart from ask about how it would be recycled (we were assured it would be, but could not get any details when asking about the original purchase). When asking for a new model, we were lucky that a shop assistant told us about the Harrison Spinks models, but it was not something that the shop pushed as much as I would have liked and the Dumfries branch had not mentioned it at all. We are really looking forward to the mattress coming in December. It shows that absolutely everything you do and use can be improved if the will is there. RANT! We have two big Labradors, one of which has boundless energy and always loves playing. As part of this they tug toys apart, enjoying getting the stuffing out. We have an A&E bag for cuddlies waiting to be mended. They get to the point that only certain bits are repairable, therefore odd limbs or strange creatures made from assorted body parts are strewn around our house, but the dogs love them just the same. When we first buy them, we have to take any plastic eyes or noses out as Remus will eat them otherwise. Disturbingly, in the last two-and-a-half years (Remus' lifetime) we have found that they also contain plastic beads; I assume this is to make them feel softer (although they don't feel more so than ones I had as a child), unless it's something to do with cost. All we can do with the beads is to throw them in landfill so they are not swallowed. We complain about microplastics in toiletries but it makes you wonder how many others there are floating around. BEWARE Having bought Christmas wrapping paper in WH Smith, their useful labelling showed how many wraps are not recyclable. It seems all papers are not created equal. Try and think of the environment this No readings, hymns or sermons; no phones, computers, TV or social media – just a quiet (and COVID-compliant) space for silent contemplation and reflection. All are welcome, whether you are a church-goer or not. We all need somewhere to unwind and de-stress. 10.30am–12noon on Wed 1, Thu 9, Christmas. If you can, search the high street or internet for environmentally friendly cards, gifts and decorations, or those without plastic. There are some interesting ideas and plenty of environmentally friendly toys for children of all ages. You could also change what you normally buy and give people gifts to support environmental or animal charities. A BOOK IDEA FOR CHRISTMAS Climate Change: How We Get to Carbon Zero by Bianca Nogrady, priced at around £7.50 for a paper version or £4 for an ebook. This book is fascinating; she looks at topics as diverse as cement (it contributes 8% of our annual carbon emissions); food production (over a quarter global carbon emissions); to the two billion tonnes of waste we generate every year and how we can tackle these problems. Here's the publisher's description: Man-made global warming is advancing inexorably. Are there ways to halt it? In this invaluable, one-stop guide Bianca Nogrady analyses the science of climate change and offers a concise overview of the ways in which our carbon emissions might be reduced. She examines the challenges posed by food and energy production and the cutting-edge technologies that could mitigate their polluting effects. She looks at initiatives to create green industry and transport. She explains the economics of emissions trading schemes and the practicalities of geoengineering plans to trap greenhouse gases. And she addresses the fundamental question: is it possible to safeguard our future before it's too late? Denise MacDonald-Kiernan Wed 15 & Wed 22 December. Pop in for five minutes, or stay an hour, to find some peace and tranquillity. St Margaret’s Church is on the Kenbridge Road, New Galloway, or visit the website for further information at www.stmargaretsnewgalloway.org Nicolette Wise Glenkens Gazette page 25 Dalry Hogmanay Celebrations Community Ceilidh, 31 December, 8pm-1am, Dalry Town Hall Come along for a night of dancing, singing, live music, and contagious good cheer! You are warmly invited to participate with a song, a tune, a story. BYOB, bring your own nibbles. Free event but due to the restricted numbers for COVID safety, tickets must be collected in advance - available from Wright's shop, Glenkens Community Shop and from Anne (see below). Bells Get Together outside Town Hall and Clachan Whether you are in the Town Hall, the pubs, or somewhere else in the village, come down at midnight for 'the bells' and join in a mighty Dalry Auld Lang Syne together! New Year's Dip on New Year's Day To freshen up after the party, or boost your immune system for the New Year, come down to the river at 1pm for a dip, followed by a hot drink at the Clachan! More more info contact Anne on anne.chaurand@btinternet.com Glenkens WW2 Deaths: Part Three This is the third article in a series about Glenkens deaths in the Second World War. Photographs of those who died are very difficult to come by, so we are lucky to have three relating to this article. If you have a photo of anyone listed on a Glenkens war memorial, I would love to copy it so that I can include it with future articles. John Thompson was the son of Margaret Thompson of Hill View, Dalry. He served with the (Scottish) Battalion of the Parachute Regiment and, as part of the 2nd Parachute Brigade, landed in Italy in July 1943. In November they were attached to the 2nd New Zealand Division and the battalion was involved in the Battle of Monte Cassino and the battles along the river Sangro. John died of wounds on 7 December 1943 at the age of 28 and is buried in Sangro River War Cemetery, Italy. He is listed on the Dalry war memorial. Thomas Archibald Blythe was the son of Bruce Crawford Blythe and Anne Monteith (Archibald) Blythe of Glasgow. He married Sheila Mary Rae Blythe of Westerton, Glasgow, in 1939. Although Thomas was born in Glasgow, his father (and siblings) had been born in Carsphairn and, in 1915, his uncle Walter was the village school teacher. Thomas was educated at Hillhead High School in Glasgow and initially worked with the Albion Motor Company before moving to Sheffield. At the outbreak of war he attended the 162nd Officer Cadet Training Unit in Salisbury and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Royal Warwickshire Regiment in February 1940. By 1942 he was Chief Instructor, with the rank of Major, at the Eastern Command Infantry Battle School. He requested a move to a fighting unit and was posted to the 1/7th RWR. Thomas landed at Normandy on 29 June 1944 and took part in the fighting around Caen. On 8 July the battalion captured the village of St Contest, held by the 25th SS Panzer Grenadiers. Thomas was killed in action on 8 July 1944 at the age of 29 and is buried in La Delivrande War Cemetery, Douvres, Calvados, France. He is listed on the Carsphairn war memorial. James Gilchrist McFadzean was born at Darnscaw, Carsphairn, the son of James and Agnes (Gilchrist) McFadzean. He was employed with the Galloway Water Power Company when he enlisted in 1941. He served with 59 Field Company, Royal Engineers. He was killed in action on 28 July 1944 at the age of 34 and is buried in the Florence War Cemetery, Italy. He is listed on the Carsphairn war memorial. Robert Ferguson (known as Bobby) was the son of William and Margaret (Milligan) Ferguson and husband to Mary Ferguson of 2 Auckland Terrace, Dalry. He served as a Sergeant with C Company, 7th (Airborne) Battalion (Galloway), King’s Own Scottish Borderers. The first of the Horsa gliders carrying the 7th Battalion KOSB landed at Arnhem on the first day of the battle, Sunday 17 September 1944, to secure the Ginkel Heath position designated as DZ-Y for the 4th Parachute Brigade. Bobby was declared missing in action between 20 and 21 September 1944 at the age of 31. By 25 September the battalion were defending the perimeter near Oosterbeek Hoog Railway Station and that night the survivors were withdrawn to cross back over the Rhine. Bobby’s brother, Lance Sergeant John Ferguson, was taken prisoner at Arnhem by German forces. Bobby is listed on the Groesbeek Memorial (to the missing) at Gelderland, Netherlands; and on the Dalry war memorial and on the 7th KOSB Arnhem memorial in the Dumfries and Galloway Aviation Museum. Thomas William Corrie was the son of Thomas and Mary Craik (Shaw) Corrie of Lowdenlea, Balmaclellan. He served with 6th Battalion, Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) and he died of wounds on 15 December 1944 at the age of 24. He is buried in Sittard General Cemetery, Limburg, Netherlands where he is one of many UK soldiers whose grave is regularly tended by local schoolchildren. He was awarded the Military Medal for bravery which was published in the London Gazette on 12 April 1945. Thomas is listed on the Carsphairn war memorial. Thomas Bryden Kirk was the son of William and Grace (Bryden) Kirk of Bogue Cottage, Dalry, and husband of Freda Dorothy (Harah) Kirk, of 15 Church Street, Driffield, Yorkshire who he married in 1939 in Driffield. Thomas was a foreman joiner in Bath when he enlisted in October 1940 and served with 114 Road Construction Coy, Royal Engineers as a Sergeant. He was killed in an accident in Burma on 25th March 1945 at the age of 30 and was buried at the Yazagyo Military Cemetery but was re-interred in Imphal, India in June 1945. His brother Harry was to die less than three months later and another brother, Robert, of the Royal Army Medical Corps was captured in June 1940 and was a prisoner of war for five years before being repatriated in May 1945. Thomas is listed on the Dalry war memorial. My thanks to Ken Morrison of the Scottish Military Research Group for his assistance with research. ...to be continued… Paul Goodwin Pictured,left to right, are Bobby Ferguson, John Thompson and Thomas Kirk. Glenkens Gazette page 26 GLENKENS PLACE NAMES: PART XIII Taking a break from our recent exporation of the place-names relating to the Glenkens’ lost or abandoned homesteads I’m taking a festive theme this edition and considering the possibilities for places named for the holly tree (ilex aquifolium). The Gaelic word for holly is cuillion. In that language by appending the suffix -ach the meaning ‘place of’ or ‘abounding in’ is formed. Thus a place called Cuillionach would have been notable for its profusion of holly trees or bushes. There are several contenders for places named for hollies in this way in the Glenkens and Galloway more generally but for all of them alternative derivations are possible and in many cases probably more plausible. These include Craigencolon, a rocky summit north of Carsphairn overlooking Loch Doon. The Place-Names of the Galloway Glens website gives this as being derived from creag a’ chuilinn the rock of the holly tree’. However this is the hill just north of the place-name Eldrick from Gaelic eileirig, ‘deer trap’, and given that proximity, it might be expected that the name could reflect hunting in the area. There is a possibility that this is the case, and that it is derived from Creag nan Còmhlan, ‘rock of the bands, bodies of people, circle, company, groups or troops’. This would fit well with the name being a reference to the tainchell (Scots for ‘beaters’, from Scots Gaelic timcheall, ‘surround’). Many helpers would have been required to drive the deer to the eileirig. A second place-name that may contain the Gaelic word for holly is Collin Island on the Black Water of Dee just downstream from the well known Otter Pool. The Place-Names of the Galloway Glens website gives this name as being derived from Gaelic Eilean Cuillin, ‘holly island’, and indeed there is another Holly Island about a kilometer upstream. However the website also gives the possibility that Collin Island reflects the Gaelic eilean culein, ‘island of (the) puppy'. I imagine holly is the more likely solution here. Forms in Cuillionach, ‘a place abounding in holly’, include Cullendoch Hill, north of Craigencolon mentioned above and one just outside our area, Cullenoch, a smallholding in the forest near Lauriston. The Place-Names of the Galloway Glens website gives both these names as from Cuillionach, ‘place of hollies’. It is possible that the northern-most place-name refers to the hill grazing ground pertaining to the former farm of Cullendoch, Kullonach on Moll, Culenoch on Ainslie 1797 and Cullenach on Ainslie 1820. If so the name of the hill itself is lost. Alan James has pointed out that there is another Cullendoch on the Big Water of Fleet, a Cullendeugh in New Abbey, and a Balcullendoch in Penninghame parish, Wigtownshire. James’s paper considers the different possibilities relating to the possible specific and generic components of these place-names. I would agree with him that suggestions that Cullendoch derives from cuilionn dabhach, ‘holly hollow’, should be set aside (due to the implausibly early coining date this formation implies) and that we are more likely to be dealing here with cùil, ‘a corner or nook’, as the generic term. James points out the range of potential meanings for the specific that may be involved, dabhach, extending from a unit of landholding to a tub or vatlike landscape feature and a fish-trap. It is possible that the Carsphairn Cullendoch is Cùil na Dabhaich, ‘the nook of the fish-trap or of the tub’. However, Gordon McAdam N ew Galloway Golf Club Founded Foun ded 1902 www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk - 01644 420737 Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Plumbing & Heating Cùil na Dabhaich would be stressed on dabh-, while the Galloway Glens website suggests cuilionnach, ‘abounding in holly’, which would be stressed on cuil-. I have not been able to obtain a pronunciation from a local who knows this hill well, but the nearest source I have found suggests that the stress is Cùllendoch. The pronunciation of Cullendoch today, then, seems to suggest that ‘abounding in holly’ may be correct. Another possibility is suggested, however, by the Irish place-names Cullion in Clonallan Parish, County Down, and Lisdrumgullion in Newry Parish, County Armagh, which Toner and Ó Mainnín derive from Irish Cuilleann and Lios Droim Cuillinn, ie ‘a steep unbroken slope’ and ‘fort of the ridge of the steep slope’ respectively. They state: "The element gullion (et var) is often translated as if it were from cuileann, ‘holly-tree’, but TS Ó Máille has convincingly argued that in many cases it actually comes from cuilleann (gen cuillinn) ‘a steep slope’ (Ó Máille 1960)." They also suggest that in some cases (such as with Cullion above) cuilleann may simply mean ‘an area of high ground’ or a steep unbroken slope. In either sense, therefore, cuilleannach, ‘place of steep slopes’ or ‘high ground’, may be the explanation of our Cullendoch. The hill is probably a bit steeper than its neighbours on the northern Rhinns. It should be noted, however, that Irish cuilleann is long obsolete, and that hill-names incorporating this element may be among the earliest strata. The Ivy (herera helix) is eidheann in Gaelic. Unfortunately there do not seem to be any obvious place-names in the Glenkens which contain this specific element. However we do have Craignane, a hill overlooking the Water of Deugh in the very north of Carsphairn parish. There are other similar place-names in other parts of Galloway and usually they are taken to refer to birds, ie creag an eòin, ‘rock or cliff of the bird’, or creag nan eun, ‘rock of cliff of the birds’. However it is possible that this represents Creag na h-Eidhne ‘rock or cliff of the ivy’. The bird solution is more likely however. Michael Ansell, Cars Fèarna HOUSE REPAIRS JOINERY 22 Kirkland Street St John’s Town of Dalry Semi-retired Furniture Maker & Builder in GLENKENS AREA 01644 430 393 07834 321 789 Call Pete on 07970 462 088 ...special rates for inclusion of tea, cake and friendly banter... Glenkens Gazette page 27 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN An Early Christmas Present I have collected books for most of my life and now age cruelly dictates that I have to get rid of them. Time and again I have set out to reduce the piles of print around the house only to find in the first ten minutes a long lost volume that I start to re-read and good intentions are once again forgotten. I recently found in a catalogue a book for which I had long been looking. Despite its ridiculously high price I sent for it and thus acquired one of the most eccentric books in my collection - Derwentwater or the Adherents of King James; A Tale of the First Rebellion, with an appendix, "Containing Genealogical Notices and Several Ancient and Honourable Families by Robert Trotter, Gent Chief of The Name in Scotland, Edinburgh." The author makes the fatal mistake of producing a tale, "partly historical and partly romantic". The story is about the subject of the title, James Radcliffe Earl of Derwentwater, a catholic who, along with William Gordon, seventh Viscount Kenmure and an Episcopalian, joined the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715. "Flashed the broad battle axe clear on the river, The shouts of the warriors were heard from afar; Loud was the battle cry, ‘Gordon for ever’! Lord Gordon of Kenmure, and young Lochinvar.’ " A co-conspiritor was the Earl of Nithsdale whose faithful wife contrived his escape; the other two were impeached for high treason. Jacobites notoriously did not make the most knowledgeable or successful of soldiers and Derwentwater was a young man in his early twenties with almost no experience of warfare. His biography is full of interest but Trotter made a complete hash of it. His attempt to produce a style which replicates that of Walter Scott is a complete failure and his language is flowery, sentimental and repellent. Consider, "They then crossed the river Ken, and scoured meadow and glen, like the coming of the distant thunder, like the swash of a thousand swans in the lake (loch to you and me!); and when they reached the cross of the new-made town of Galloway, James VIII, would-be Jacobite king was proclaimed in due form; the bells rang their merriest peal, and the shouts of applause were continued and loud." This is an excellent example of why the study of history does not require any assistance from ‘book culture’ which has become alarmingly common in the literature departments of today’s universities and literary reviews, which claim to ‘improve’ the past while in fact mangling, distorting, and misrepresenting it. The author offers no evidence for the rest of his statement. Is it likely that a village notorious for covenanters would now support the hated Stewart cause? The other part of Trotter’s book is a collection - an Appendix over twice as long as the tale of the unfortunate Jacobites. It provides evidential material and snippets on genealogies, mostly from Galloway, which he claims were supplied by folk that he consulted in ‘big hooses’, even castles. Needless to say, his informants were intent upon making these pedigrees as impressive and distinguished as possible. It is easy to believe that the Trotters and their ilk enjoyed playing at the role of ‘lairds’. Wherever possible they emphasised possible connections to their own family. They rented houses in the Glenkens for perhaps a couple of months in the summer but they went back to their homes and places of employment during the rest of the year. There is, of course, nothing wrong with this. They paid back the local community by writing about the history of their glen in their books and articles. For example, Trotter tells us that the Barbour family, who recently appeared in this column, descended from the Barberini in Italy and that they first came to Scotland with Agricola; in other words, at the very beginning of recorded Scottish history, a claim for which there is no evidence. Clement, miller of Polmaddy, in the Glenkens, for entertaining James V and sheltering him all night, during one of his hunting expeditions in the new Forest of Galloway was granted ‘all the lands of Polmaddy’. The Countess of Douglas at Threave Castle demanded that bone marrow be served at three meals a day. Her husband, no doubt anticipating COP26, wishing to stop her addiction, arranged for 300 lambs to be placed outside her window. When she asked why he did so he responded, ‘For marrow to your Ladyship’s table’! A tear of pity bedewed her cheek but from that day a dish of marrow was never seen in Threave Castle. All trivial but unprovable like much nowadays associated with the Christmas celebrations. Hoping yours is merry and bright! Ted Cowan Vintage Sewing Machine Restoration If you have an old sewing machine you would like to have restored or repaired, I'm happy to undertake any works sewing machines up to those made around the 1980s. I donate my time without charge and I only ask to be refunded the cost of any parts required (you are welcome to order them instead!) and that a donation be made to a mutually agreed local community cause. Please get in touch and we can arrange for you to drop your machine off where I live in New Galloway - I am quite happy to assess a machine without obligation. Please contact me if you have any interest or if you have ideas concerning what community causes need or deserve support. I tend to be busy with tending the garden through the growing season but have time to spare through winter! Best wishes, John jjohnes@gmx.com 9 6 10 7 12 13 Glenkens Gazette page 28 CHRISTMAS CROSSWORD 14 9 1 2 12 4 13 9 10 5 French name for a Christmas cake shaped like a log French _______ de Noel (5) 6 Sport that takes precedence on Boxing Day in Australia, New Zealand (7) 8 What’s every Elf’s favourite type of music? (4) 10 Northern Italian city which gave us Panettone (5) 8 13 What’s every Elf’s favourite type of music? (4) 4 Who is S 10 Northern Italian city which gave us Panettone (5) 6 “Buddy 12 & 13 Who is never hungry at Christmas? The _________ , it’s always __________!! (6,7) 7 The tagl “may the __ 14 The Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square is a gift from which country each year? (6) 9 Racecou George VI ACROSS DOWN 3 Traditional festive 11 bread originating in Dresden in 6 “Buddy the Elf, what’s your favourite _________“ (6) the1300’s (7) 1 Key ingredient of sweet and spicy Lebkuchen cookies (5) 11 A term lasting twe DOWN 8 1 Key ingredient of sweet and spicy Lebkuchen cookies (5) 2 The single released by X Factor winner 2009 Joe McElderry, which missed out on the Christmas No.1 spot to 14 Rage Against the Machine (3,5) 3 Who brings Christmas presents for our 4 legged friends? (5,4) 4 Who is Santa Claus’ favourite singer? (5,7) French _______ de Noel (5) 14 9 Racecourse where the Boxing Day showpiece King Chance to win £25 in vouchers for The 2 The single released by X Factor winner 2009 Joe Complete the crossword and solve McElderry, which missed out on theabove Christmas No.1 spotthe to Christmas an Rage Against the Machine (3,5)Send the winning word to philip.lanca and a winner will be chosen at rando 6 Sport thatVItakes precedence on Boxing Day in Australia, George race takes place? (7) New Zealand (7) 3 Who brings Christmas presents for our 4 legged friends? (5,4) 8 What’s favourite type of music? (4) (4) lastingevery twelveElf’s days, then later to Christmas 4 Who is Santa Claus’ favourite singer? (5,7) 10 DOWN Northern Italian city which gave us Panettone (5) 6 “Buddy the Elf, what’s your favourite _________“ (6) 11 A term originally applied to a pagan winter festival ACROSS 1 Key ingr 3 Who bri (5,4) 12 & 1312Who is never hungry at Christmas? The _________ , 713The tagline for Luke Skywalker’s Christmas Tree Farm 5 French name for a Christmas cake shaped like a log it’s always __________!! (6,7) “may the ________ be with you (6) 14 The Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square is a gift from which country each year? (6) 3 Traditional festive bread originating in Dresden in the1300’s (7) 11 6 Sport that takes precedence on Boxing Day in Australia, New Zealand (7) 12 3 Traditional festive bread originating in Dresden in the1300’s (7) DOWN 2 The sing McElderry, Rage Again 7 ACROSS ACROSS 5 French name for a Christmas cake shaped like a log French _______ de Noel (5) 6 14 10 11 3 5 8 Chance to win £25 in vouchers for The Clachan Inn, Dalry 3 Traditional festive bread originating in Dresden in the Christmas ingredient of sweet Lebkuchen cookies (5) Complete the crossword above and solve anagram ofand thespicy letters in the red_________ boxes. 12 1& Key 13 Who is never hungry at Christmas? The , the1300’s (7) it’sphilip.lancaster@sjpp.co.uk always __________!! philip.lancaster@sjpp.co.uk Send the winning word to 2 The single released by(6,7) X Factor winner 2009 Joe 5 French name for a Christmas cake shaped like a log McElderry, which missed out on the Christmas No.1 spot to at Christmas random. Good luck! French _______ de Noel (5) and a winner will be chosen the Machine 14 Rage TheAgainst Tree in(3,5) Trafalgar Square is a gift from which country each year? (6) 6 Sport that takes precedence on Boxing Walker Day in Australia, 3 Who last brings issue's Christmas presents for our 4 legged friends? Congratulations to Andrew who won prize! This crossword is New Zealand (7) (5,4) sponsored by Lancaster Wealth & Investment Management (see ad on p10). 7 The tagline for Luke Skywalker’s Christmas Tree Farm “may the ________ be with you (6) 9 Racecourse where the Boxing Day showpiece King George VI race takes place? (7) 11 A term originally applied to a pagan winter festival lasting twelve days, then later to Christmas (4) 8 What’s every Elf’s favourite type of music? (4) 4 Who is Santa Claus’ favourite singer? (5,7) 10 Northern Italian city which gave us Panettone (5) 6 “Buddy the Elf, what’s your favourite _________“ (6) 12 & 13 Who is never hungry at Christmas? The _________ , it’s always __________!! (6,7) 7 The tagline for Luke Skywalker’s Christmas Tree Farm Complete crossword above and solve the Christmas anagram of the letters in the red boxes. “may the ________the be with you (6) 14 The Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square is a gift from which country each year? (6) 9 Racecourse where the Boxing Day showpiece King George VI race takes place? (7) and a winner will be chosen at random. Good luck! Chance to win £25 in vouchers for The Clachan Inn, Dalry Job Opportunity Spalding Bowling Club Winners 2021 Send the winning word to philip.lancaster@sjpp.co.uk Would you like to join our friendly team and make real difference Chance to win £25a in vouchers for The Clachan Inn, Dalry Complete the crossword above and solve the Christmas anagram of the letters in the red boxes. to your community? Send the winning word to philip.lancaster@sjpp.co.uk 11 A term originally applied to a pagan winter festival lasting twelve days, then later to Christmas (4) and a winner will be chosen at random. Good luck! WE HAVE VACANCIES FOR A: • Business Support Administrator (24 hrs/week) • Youth Arts Coordinator (21 hours/week) Both roles are salaried positions with full employment benefits. See www.gcat.scot/jobs for full details. Closing date for applications is Sunday 12th December and interviews will be held on the 20th and 21st December. Top row, left to right: Jim white, club president Paul Nicolson, John Peacock, Eric Broadhurst. Bottom row, left to right: ladies champion Ann Hamilton, gents champion Gordon McAdam, Colin Ramsay, Sandra Dempster, Elizabeth Peacock and Fiona Ramsay. page 29 A WINDY RIG MERRY CHRISTMAS The teams have completed a rigorous testing and commissioning programme across the 12 turbines and it was expected that all of the Windy Rig turbines will be exporting power to the grid at the end of November. The remedial work on the C35 was completed in October and signed off by D&GC. There was also some additional work on the B729 that was completed at the same time. Work to reinstate and secure the laydown area has also taken place with some weather dependant works still to take place. Statkraft would like to thank all local residents for their patience during the construction of the wind farm throughout the year and take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. WINDY STANDARD WIND FARM COMMUNITY UPDATE We recently held our public exhibitions about our proposals to repower Windy Standard Wind Farm. The events were held in Dalmellington, Carsphairn and New Cumnock and attracted a number of visitors. We really enjoyed discussing the plans with local residents and we hope that everyone managed to have their questions answered. We are encouraging everyone to have their say on the proposals. We are still collecting feedback and can easily discuss the plans in further detail. We would encourage everyone to visit the website www. windystandardwindfarm.co.uk, view the exhibition materials and provide their comments. The team is also available to have answer any questions that people may have. Please get in touch by contacting communities@fredolsen.co.uk or by phoning 07435 763900. Advertisement It’s been a busy couple of months as the completion of the Windy Rig project fast approaches. Advertisement Glenkens Gazette Glenkens Gazette page 30 Local Initiatives in New Galloway Major Grant Award For New Galloway Town Hall Facebook, or there are posters around the local community. Also check out the Diary pages in this issue on p34-5, and below is an article from New Galloway's new community development worker, Hayley Edgar, with more on our Christmas festivities. We are delighted to have been awarded a Community Ownership Grant of £175,000 by the UK Government towards the refurbishment of the Town Hall. This is a fund expressly designed to help those taking ownership of buildings for the community, which we hope to be doing shortly. An asset transfer process has been in train for a while now, held up by COVID and by the complexities of transferring a building held as ‘inalienable common good’, but things are moving forward now. We do need to secure matched funding for the grant and will be working our socks off to gain as much as possible. Hogmanay Ceilidh We are thrilled to announce that we have been able to book The Shore Road Band for our Hogmanay Ceilidh, thanks to some events funding secured from D&G Council back in June. It will be wonderful to have another ceilidh (fingers crossed for no more sudden lockdowns) and we are so looking forward to being treated to a band with such a great reputation. All ages are welcome! LING Lunches Restarting New Kitchen And Toilets In the meantime, we have not been standing still. With the help of some additional funding from D&G Council, we have already been able to install a smart new community kitchen and are just completing the installation of new toilets. Events Manager Yet another grant success, this time Scottish Government funding (the Enabling Neighbourhoods & Communities fund) via the Corra Foundation, has enabled us to appoint a part-time events manager. We are excited to announce that Neil Paterson has been appointed and will be working with us for the next five or six months (see article on p21 for more about Neil). What’s On Since August, we have been gradually and carefully re-opening the town hall for regular activities, ensuring that sensible COVID mitigations are in place. All this takes time and attention to detail, but we have tried to make our guidance and hall hire arrangements clear and simple. In particular, we have instigated a simple way for people to hire the hall for events which are community run. To find out more visit www.newgallowaytownhall.com or @Local Initiatives in New Galloway on Last, but by no means least, we are finally planning to restart LING Lunches on Tuesday 11 January. So many people tell us how much they have missed them, and we have too. Those who volunteer are delighted that there is, at long last, a commercial dishwasher available, so not so many hours on dishwashing duty are required. Some things will be different because of COVID security, but the essence will be the same. Our new events manager will be invaluable in supporting the process and making sure it is as safe and welcoming as possible. We look forward to seeing many of our regulars again, along with quite a few new faces. Ann Glaister New CEW for New Galloway I am delighted to have been appointed by New Galloway Community Enterprises as the new community engagement worker. The role, formerly held by Sam Rushton, remains to support the economic and social wellbeing of the community of New Galloway and Kells. I will be in New Galloway most Wednesday and Thursday mornings if anyone would like to meet up with me in person, or if you would like to get in touch please see contact details below. We have had a very busy summer since I started in the role and it has been great to meet and work with so many people as well as being involved in some exciting projects and events, including The Glenkens Food Month. We are now looking forward to Christmas celebrations! For several years now the New Galloway Events Committee have held the Christmas lights switch-on. I was delighted, along with the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust and Local Initiatives in New Galloway, to be asked to carry this on for 2021. We want to 'make this season bright' after our difficult period of lockdowns and restrictions. Therefore, we are asking New Galloway residents to join in the fun again and light up the High Street. Please could you have your Christmas lights up and ready by 5pm on Saturday 4 December, as the parade down the High Street will be that evening. If you need help putting lights up or need lights, please get in touch as I'd be happy to help. To really bring the Christmas spirit to the Glenkens we are also hosting lots of mini-events throughout New Galloway on Saturday 4 December from 2pm - to see what's on please turn to the Gazette Diary on p34 of this issue. Pre-booking needed for some events, so give me a call or drop me an email to book (details below). There will also be a brochure circulating around New Galloway which includes a list of events, church services and local business opening hours over the Christmas period. Here at New Galloway Community Enterprises we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone in the Glenkens community for your support and to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year! Hayley Edgar hayleycew@newgallowaycommunity.shop 07741 656 601 Facebook @CommEngageNGK Glenkens Gazette page 31 BALMACLELLAN COMMUNITY UPDATE Balmaclellan’s community groups are working together to revitalise community life after the past months of COVID restrictions. The Balmaclellan Community Trust and the Balmaclellan Village Hall Trust are working together to help the village hall utilise its full potential as a central hub for the community. Since lockdown restrictions have eased, lots of the weekly events have been restarted as well as new, interesting and engaging events for the future. AFTERNOON TEA in the HALL Our first Afternoon Tea was held on 5 October, an event enjoyed by all those who came to sample the home-made treats on offer. That successful beginning was the start of a monthly programme of teas on the first Tuesday of the month, each month having a speciality theme of cakes to suit the season. Our next Afternoon Tea will be Tuesday 7 December, with a Christmas theme of course - booking is essential as places are going fast. To reserve a place please email julia.higgins55@outlook.com (please note that from January 2022 the cost per person will be £5). BOOKS in BALMACLELLAN The library re-opened in May 2021 and has an ever-growing membership, not surprising given the range, quality and variety of books available! Come along and see for yourself - you can spend time browsing our very full bookshelves containing a wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books available, and there are also lots of children's books and books you can buy. The Book Room is situated in the village hall, in the Templeton Room, and is open Monday from 6-7pm, and Wednesday and Saturday from 10.30am-12.30pm. We are very grateful to everyone who has donated books for this great community resource. GLENKENS CRAFTERS Every Wednesday morning sees the village hall become a hive of crafting activities. The group is informal and friendly, and aims to bring people together creating friendships and support in a safe space. Practical skills in crafts and sewing can be learned, or you can bring your own project and relax and chat while you work. We have a good mix of complete novices and experienced crafters sharing ideas and techniques - why not come along for a chat and a cup of tea in good company. We also have an extensive craft library and craft resources which you are welcome to use. BALMACLELLAN COMMUNITY GARDEN Work is underway at the village hall, where volunteers are creating a brand new community garden. We hope it will become a social space for people to meet and mingle, for events, barbecues and picnics, but also a space for local gardening enthusiasts to come and swap tips, knowledge, seeds and spare plants or cuttings! Children and young people can use the garden to learn how things grow, learn about biodiversity or just meet, play and picnic. It will also incorporate a heritage display to showcase the rich history of Balmaclellan and its people. The Watson Birds Exhibition As part of the development of the signposted trails for the Watson Birds project, a new exhibition is on show in the Watson Room at The Smiddy, Balmaclellan. There are reproductions of Donald’s paintings for each of the nine Glenkens sites of the Donald Watson Art Trail. Illustrations of birds commonly found around Dalry, where the Watson Bird Walks run, will also be showcased. Please check with CatStrand at www.gcat.scot or call 01644 420 374 for access to the exhibition. Trail markers and interpretation boards for these walks are currently being manufactured locally and we hope to have them installed before the end of the year. In the meantime, brochures for the art trail and walk are available at local shops across the Glenkens, as well as the Clachan Inn and the Ken Bridge Hotel. This part of the project is funded by the Black Craig Wind Farm Community Fund and Galloway Afternoon tea being enjoyed in Balmaclellan Village Hall. Balmaclellan Community Trust received funding for the heritage project from Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership small grants scheme. If you can spare time to help in any way, please contact either Julia on 01644 420 297 or julia.higgins55@outlook.com, or Ailsa on ailsamalone@aol.com for further details. GLENKENS ART GROUP On Thursday afternoons the village hall hosts the Glenkens Art Group. This is a group of artistically inclined people who come together for a couple of hours each week to paint/draw/create artworks in a variety of media in a peaceful, supportive atmosphere. We are a mixed group containing novices as well as experienced artists who share tips, encouragement and expertise and we welcome anyone who would like to come and work and enjoy a cup of tea. If you would like to join us, contact Tom Leach on t_leach1@sky.com Julia Higgins Glens Landscape Partnership. We are also working in partnership with Ken Words, led by Jane McBeth, and ably assisted in guided walks by local bird expert, Chris Rollie. Roger Crofts Glenkens Gazette The Community Kindness Cupboard outside Dalry Library has home baking in every Thursday. page 32 WHERE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB LISTINGS Dumfries & Galloway! What's Going on @DGWGO on Facebook; What's Going On Glenkens @WGOGlenkens on Facebook; Glenkens Gazette @GlenkensNews on Facebook – once on the page for any of these, use the search function to look for jobs. The Glenkens' largest employer, Natural Power Consultants Ltd, also have a jobs page - www.naturalpower.com/uk/careers KEY GLENKENS CONTACTS LOCAL DOCTORS’ SURGERY Glenkens Medical Practice - 01644 420 234 COMMUNITY CONTACTS • Balmaclellan: Martin Warnock 07939 261 391 • Carsphairn: Liz Holmes - 07718 358 160 • Corsock: Julie Garton - 07769 647 702 • Kirkpatrick Durham: Heather 07551 639 629 • Crossmichael: Richard Middleton 01556 670 691 • Dalry: Graham West - 01644 430 503 • Mossdale: Shop - 01644 450 281 • New Galloway: Helen Keron 07741 656 601 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 FOOD DELIVERIES • Galloway Foodbank - 07730 788 335 • Hidden Veg wwwopenfoodnetwork.org.uk/ hidden-veg/shop • Ballards Butchers - 01556 502502 (they also deliver groceries) • Grierson’s Butchers: 01556 502 637 • Henderson’s Butchers: 01556 502 654 • Mitchell’s Greengrocers: 01556 502 077 • Fleet Fish: order before 9pm Sunday evening for delivery the following week. Delivery days can be found when ordering at www. fleet-fish.co.uk or call 07966 103 912 • Roan’s Dairy - 01556 620 374 LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Glenkens Community Shop: Contact Liz Lewis on 07530 804 217 or drop by the shop on Main Street, Dalry Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact Ros Hill at ros.hill@rathanhouse.co.uk Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail.com or 01644 430 521 Dalry Town Hall: Contact Jim Reid on 07776 034 260 or jamescreid@hotmail.co.uk Glenkens Community Centre: Contact Carylann Williamson at williamsoncarylann@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact ngce5000@gmail.com or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins at julia.higgins55@outlook.com CatStrand: Contact Chris Jowsey at chris@catstrand. com 01644 420 374 or pop in to the CatStrand Schools: Visit the school office or call Dalry Primary on 01644 430 105 (for Nursery/ELC too), Dalry Secondary on 01644 430 259 or Kells on 01644 420 340 Carsphairn Heritage Group: carsphairnheritagegroup@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie at mcnabb.laurie@dumgal.gov.uk If you would like to add your community organisation to this list please get in touch with the Gazette - contact details are on the back page. CHURCH TIMES CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sunday Services Balmaclellan: 11am - 5th Dec, 2nd Jan & 30th Jan. Carsphairn: 11am - 12th Dec, 26th Dec & 9th Jan. Kells: 11am - 19th Dec & 16th Jan. Dalry: 11am - 23rd Jan. Special Services Carols by Candlelight: 12 Dec, 6.30pm, Dalry Church. Carsphairn Community Christmas Service: 23 Dec, 5pm, Carsphairn Church. Watchnight Service: 24 Dec, 11.30pm, Balmaclellan Church. Christmas Day Family Service: 25 Dec, 11am, Dalry Church. Local Church of Scotland congregations can be accessed on YouTube under ‘Balmaclellan, Kells and Dalry linked with Carsphairn’. These can also be emailed - contact DBartholomew@churchofscotland.org.uk and paper copies can be provided to those who do not have internet access. Contact David on 01644 430 380 for these resources, or simply for a chat. SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: St Margaret's Church, Kenbridge Road, New Galloway, DG7 3RP Sundays: 10.30am Sung Eucharist (following current COVID guidelines) followed by coffees/teas. Advent: Open for private prayer and reflection from 10.30am-12noon on 1, 9, 15 and 22 December. Carol Service: 4.30pm, Sunday 19 December, followed by mulled wine and mince pies. Christmas Day: 10.30am, Sung Eucharist. Visitors are always welcome - for further information, including directions, please see our website www. stmargaretsnewgalloway.org or call our vestry secretary, Christine Rankin, on 01644 420 259. Glenkens Gazette page 33 GALLOWAY COMMUNITY TRANSPORT www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org email gct@catstrand.com phone 01644 420374 mobile 07841 512449 December 2021 – January 2022 GCT Ebikes Regular Services GK2 Glenkens-Castle Douglas GCT in partnership with Sustrans (Tesco) Wednesday Evenings Out (Registered Route) Return 19:00 Dalry (Underhill) 21:15 19:05 New Galloway 21:10 19:15 Mossdale 21:00 19:25 Laurieston 20:50 19:30 Townhead of Greenlaw 20:47 19:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 20:37 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:35 Booking not required Glenkens to Newton Stewart Tuesday Mornings Outward Pickups: Dalry (Underhill) 0930 New Galloway (Town Hall) 0935 CatStrand) 0937 To Merrick Leisure Centre and Aldi Return Pickup Newton Stewart (Aldi Car Park) 1130 Return fare £3.50 Advance booking required. Member Hire GCT has 16, 15, and 8 seater minibuses and a fully wheelchair accessible electric car available for hire by community organisations. For information about membership and terms and conditions of hire see the GCT website or phone 07841 512449. Thursdays at 10am CatStrand, New Galloway DRIVERS NEEDED Galloway Community Transport needs your help to provide a wide range of community transport services across the Stewartry and beyond. MINIBUS DRIVING Minibus drivers with D1 (101 or by test) are needed to do volunteer and paid driving for our wide range of member community groups. PATIENT TRANSPORT We also urgently need drivers with their own cars for our patient transport service. Our volunteer patient transport drivers receive a generous mileage reimbursement and the satisfaction of providing a vital service to vulnerable people in our communities. Interested? Email gct@catstrand.com or phone 07841 512449 Glenkens Gazette page 34 WHAT'S ON DECEMBER Ongoing, Watson Birds Project Exhibition, The Smiddy, Balmaclellan Wed 1, Thu 9, Wed 15 & Wed 22, Space for Contemplation, 10.30am– 12noon, St Margaret’s Church, New Galloway, see p24 Thu 2, CatStrand Late Night Shopping, 6.30-8.30pm, CatStrand Fri 3, The Sugar Revue Burlesque & Cabaret Show, 7.30-9.30pm, CatStrand Sat 4, Art Explorers, 10-11am for ages 5-8, 11.15am-12.30pm for ages 8+, CatStrand Sat 4, Christmas Craft Fair, 11am-3pm, Mossdale Village Hall Sat 4, The Smithy Christmas Shopping, 2–4.30pm, The Smithy, New Galloway Sat 4, LING Teas 'n' Tinsel, 3.304.45pm, tickets available from New Galloway shop Sat 4, The Smithy Carols & Hot Chocolate, 4.30–4:50, The Smithy, New Galloway Sat 4, Christmas Lights Switch On, 5pm, begins at New Galloway golf course carpark Sat 4, Mulled Wine & Shortbread, 5.20– 7pm, CatStrand, book on www.gcat.scot or 01644 420 374 ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 Family and friends coming to stay? Sat 4, Santa's Grotto, 5.20–6.15pm, New Galloway Park, book on www.gcat. scot or 01644 420374 Sat 4, New Galloway Community Shop Late Night Shopping, open till 7pm Tue 7, Afternoon Tea in the Hall, Balmaclellan Village Hall, email to book julia.higgins55@outlook.com or 01644 420 297, see p31 Tue 7, Macmillan Fundaising Bake Stall, outside Hair by Jayne, Dalry Wed 8, Film: Little Women, 7.30-9pm, Dalry Town Hall Wed 8, Christmas Coffee Morning, 1030am-12noon, New Galloway Town Hall, see below Fri 10, Youth Players' Christmas Panto; Old Mother Hubbard, 7.30-9.30pm, CatStrand Sat 11, Glenkens Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 11, Youth Players' Christmas Panto; Old Mother Hubbard, 7.30-9.30pm, CatStrand Sun 12, Winter Voices— a poetry walk over hill and holm, 12-4pm, meet at Dalry Town Hall, book via CatStrand Sun 12, Youth Players' Christmas Panto; Old Mother Hubbard, 3-5.30pm, CatStrand Sun 12, The Clachan Folk Session, Sat 1, New Year's Dip on New Year's Day, see p25 Sat 8, Glenkens Producers Market, 10am-1pm, Dalry Town Hall Fri 28, Mairi Campbell: Auld Lang Syne, 7.30-9:30pm, CatStrand Macmillan Fundraisers Christmas Coffee Morning Returns Get into the festive spirit at New Galloway Town Hall on Wednesday 8 December. From 10.30am to 12 noon, the Glenkens Churches Guild and St Margaret’s Ladies Guild are once again hosting their long-established Christmas Coffee Morning. Enjoy a cup of coffee with home-made mince pies or shortbread while listening to seasonal live music from Geoff Davidson. Stock up on delicious treats for Christmas from the Baking Stall, and browse the beautiful array of Christmas gifts and decorations from the Craft Stall. There will also be a Raffle with some great prizes. Everyone welcome! Entry £2.50, children free. THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm Sat 2-2.30 pm DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY www.covenanters-holidaycottagescotland.co.uk JANUARY The Macmillan event outside Hair by Jayne in Dalry raised an impressive total of £905.18. The next bake stall outside the salon will be held on Tuesday 7 December and funds raised will go towards the hedgehog rescue sanctuary outside Carsphairn. Short of space? Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 5-7pm, Clachan Inn, Dalry Sat 18, Art Explorers, 10-11am for ages 5-8, 11.15am-12.30pm for ages 8+, CatStrand Sat 18, Dickens' A Christmas Carol, 7-9pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall Sun 19, CatStrand Kids Cinema presents ELF, 1-3pm, CatStrand, see p13 Sun 19, Film: It’s a Wonderful Life, 3.30-5:30pm, CatStrand Wed 22, A Galloway Glens Christmas card, 7.30-9pm, CatStrand Fri 31, Hogmanay Ceilidh with the Shore Road Band and Wyrdy Women, 9pm-12.30am, tickets from New Galloway shop Fri 31, Community Ceilidh, Dalry Town Hall, 8pm-1am, see p25 Fri 31, Bells Get Together outside Town Hall and Clachan, see p25  01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS  Glenkens Gazette page 35 REGULAR EVENTS Balmaclellan Village Hall: New Galloway Town Hall: Tuesday Afternoon Teas, first Tues every month, to book email julia.higgins55@outlook.com Glenkens Crafters, Wed 10am2.30pm, for info contact Julia Higgins on 01644420297 Books in Balmaclellan Community Library, Mon 6-7pm, Wed 10am–12.30pm & Sat 10.30am-12.30pm Glenkens Art Group, Thur afternoons, contact Tom Leach on t_leach1@sky.com Crafty Corner with tea and biscuits, Mon, 2-4pm, contact Kristina on 07789 680468 Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn: Zumba, Wed 6.30-7.20pm & 7.25-8.15pm, contact samantha. rushton@hotmail.co.uk (booking essential) Bairn Banter; family stay & play session, 0-7 years, Sat 10-11.45am, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn CatStrand, New Galloway: Art Explorers, fortnightly Saturdays, 10-11am for ages 5-8, 11.15am-12.30pm for ages 8+ Newton Stewart Bus Service to Tesco, Wednesday evenings, see p33 CatStrand Youth Players, meet weekly to work on festival plays and an annual pantomime, contact briangm@catstrand.com Sports Evenings with indoor bowling and table tennis, Tues 7-9pm, £3, drop in or contact Ray Bridgeman on 01644 420 438 Drop-in to chat about local plans and activities with Hayley Edgar, Community Engagement Worker, Wed 10-11am Tai Chi, Wed 10.30-11.30am, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Martial Arts for Children, Thur 7-9pm, contact brianhilton237@ gmail.com Gentle Yoga, Fri 5.30-6.30pm, contact kathyr64@hotmail.co.uk Informal Family Badminton, (net and racquets but no line markings), New Galloway Town Hall, contact Ros on 07749 249 781 Dear Gazette, Here in New Zealand we are very proud of our grandsons, Olek and Karol, and their mum, Marta, for their amazing back yard constructions in Dalry!! Maralyn & David McDonald Take a look at Issue 118 of the Gazette to see the feature on Marta and the boys' amazing garden creations! You can find past issues online at www. glenkensgazette.co.uk Youth Volunteers, every other Monday 5.30-7.30pm, ages 12–18 Dalry Library & Customer Service Centre Main Street, Dalry, Tel: 01644 430 234 or 01556 502 643 Tuesday: For books and other walk-in services: 2-5pm Friday: For NEC Bus Pass and Blue Badge appointments and PCs: 11.30am – 12.30pm; for books and other walk-in services: 1 -4.30pm. Appointments can be booked in the library or on 01387 260 196. USEFUL NUMBERS: ● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000 ● Police, non-emergency: 101 ● Doctor: 01644 420 234 ● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24 ● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000 Glenkens Gazette A Season on Loch Ken After taking on the role of Loch Ken Ranger in April, I had a vague idea running through my mind of what this new job might entail. But this was a brand new venture, both for myself and for the Loch Ken Trust, and neither of us really knew what to expect. Getting straight out and about was crucial; meeting local residents, business owners and landowners. The easiest way for me to maintain a realistic hold on the many and varied needs was to keep constant sight of the legislation that underpins much of what I do around the loch - the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. This is where our free statutory access to much of Scotland’s land and inland waterways comes from. The Act places an onus of responsibility upon anyone wishing to access land or water in that they must do so responsibly. The Act also places an onus of responsibility upon landowners, where they should not bar responsible access physically or by way of signs or any other means. The summer was a perfect storm of ‘staycations’, seeing high numbers of visitors released from a year of lockdown but with foreign travel restrictions remaining in place, and the hot and dry summer also increased visitor numbers to the loch. At times the public slipway at Boat O’Rhone was reminiscent of the French Riviera, with families sunbathing, eating picnics, launching various watercraft or just cooling off, playing or swimming. That caused occasional conflict when folk were asked to move for fishing boats to be reversed down the slipway, which is something boat owners pay to do. Section 5 of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code stipulates that wild camping is lightweight, done in small numbers and for two or three nights in any one place. Much of what I witnessed this summer could never be described as lightweight camping and it is easy to lose sight of the fact that such numbers must have an impact on our communities, the environment and upon wildlife. My first observation is that this area of the loch is not a campsite and the people who pay to fish have regularly been denied that use. Secondly, there are no toilet facilities alongside the loch and visitors doing what comes naturally has an environmental impact. The last of my observations is the effect that constant disturbance from high numbers of visitors has on wildlife. For instance, there are three small islands on the loch and one in particular has seen considerable disturbance to nesting birds. The vast majority of visitors, however, have been responsible and had an obvious respect for the outdoors. It is good to see the numbers of young people learning how to use the loch responsibly. Several parents commented on a desire to see outdoor education being included in the school curriculum and we are currently in page 36 Ken collecting rubbish left by campers on the Loch Ken islands. the process of looking at how we might be able to deliver this to local schools. Education is absolutely key - one of my fears for the future is that if enough complaints are heard at a high enough level, this may eventually force legislative changes to the Act with restrictions coming into place on the free access that we currently enjoy in Scotland. If we all learn how to leave no trace of our visits, a landowner should have little idea that we were ever on their land and have no reason to complain. Loch Ken is a beautiful place and is big enough to accommodate the wide array of activities that take place on and around it, but too high a demand placed upon any area of it will inevitably have a negative impact. To protect and preserve this beautiful area for future generations requires wellbalanced care and consideration from all, and we can all play a part in that care. Ken Scott, Ranger, Loch Ken Trust 07918 300889 lktranger@protonmail.com Saturdays WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Editing & Design: sarah.ade@gmail.com FEB/MAR COPY DEADLINE: 5 JAN The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No. SC032050  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. 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For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Corsock, Crossmichael, Kirkpatrick Durham, Laurieston, Mossdale, New Galloway, Parton and St John’s Town of Dalry October/November 2021 ISSUE 126 FREE New Galloway Link Path Opens A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to launch the completion of the exciting New Galloway Link Path. The route offers pedestrians a safe way to walk off-road from New Galloway to the network of Galloway Forest Park paths. About a mile in length, the route starts at the New Galloway Golf Club woods to link up with the Cairn Edward forest road at Strachan. Before the route was opened, walkers had to negotiate the A762 along a stretch with limited visibility and fast traffic. The need for the project was identified by the local community, particularly New Galloway resident Gerry Cinderby and other Local Initiative in New Galloway (LiNG) volunteers. Over recent years the idea has been worked up into a detailed proposal by the Galloway Glens Scheme, with the backing of D&G Council’s environment team. Now, with the generous support of Gerry Cinderby cuts the ribbon to open the New Galloway Link Path to the public. in memory of Jamie Gordon’s late mother who loved to walk by the burn. Any queries or comments on the project are welcomed to Jonathan. barrett@dumgal.gov.uk To see the region's full network of Core Paths use D&G Council's 'map viewer' function on their website. Turn to p2 for a map of the New Galloway Link Path. the Gordon family as landowners along the route, and the assistance of the Dumfries & Galloway Outdoor Access Trust, the new route is open for access. The work undertaken includes creation of brand new stretches of path, upgrades to existing paths and a new footbridge over Knocknairling Burn. The bridge has been named Kirsten’s Bridge, GLENKENS COMMUNITY SHOP Over the last nine years the Glenkens Community Shop - usually known as the charity shop - has put about £60,000 back into the Glenkens community. This was through a grant process with applications taken twice a year. Sadly, the last time we were able to do this was December 2019. But after being closed for so long, we’re now open two days a week and are finally in a position to offer these grants again. So we are calling local groups, or individuals, with a project who would benefit from funding to come forward. The maximum grant is £500, and projects must be based in and benefit the Glenkens area. If you’d like to apply you can collect an application form from the shop on Wednesdays or Saturdays between 10am and 4pm. There’s a different form for groups and individuals. We will give out the grants in early December, and the closing date for applications is Saturday 20 November 2021 - we look forward to hearing from you! We’d also love to see you in the shop, where we have all sorts of stuff to browse through. We welcome donations after 2.30pm on the days we’re open, and also on Mondays between 10am and 12noon. If you’d like to join our smashing team of volunteers, you can pick up an application form for that too - we look forward to seeing you soon. The Glenkens Community Shop Team Responses to last issue's housing feature can be found on page 5... A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 Macmillan Coffee Afternoon in Dalry Jayne and her team from Hair by Jayne look forward to seeing you all at the Macmillan Coffee Morning 'Cakes & Chat' at Dalry Town Hall on Thursday 7 October from 1-3pm. Due to COVID the decision has been made to provide a yummy selection of home-made cakes in a box to take home, rather than have a traditional sit-down coffee morning. There will also be a raffle with prizes donated by local businesses, a veg and jam/chutney stall, a guessing game, and more. Dalry community have generously donated the use of the hall for free for the event and organisers would be grateful if people could please follow current COVID guidelines. Jayne, who is organising the fundraiser, said: "We have held many baking stalls over the last year and they have been a great success. The last one was a twoday event which raised £650 for Dumfries & Galloway Blood Bikes. We have also raised £525 for Spalding Bowling Club and £500 for Dalry Town Hall. "Our bake stalls are a real success and wouldn’t go ahead without the support of the community - well done everyone who has helped make this possible, and let's make this next fundraiser another great one!" David Tallontire CHIMNEY SWEEP Covering the Glenkens & further afield 07709 144 299 - wood burners - multi-fuel stoves - open fires - Agas - Rayburns - birds nest removal with CCTV inspection - certificates issued - feel free to call for advice - Find me on Facebook 唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀Ⰰ 䰀漀漀猀攀 䌀漀瘀攀爀猀Ⰰ 䘀愀戀爀椀挀猀Ⰰ 䌀甀猀栀椀漀渀猀 刀攀昀椀氀氀攀搀 䘀爀攀攀 䔀猀琀椀洀愀琀攀猀 吀栀攀 圀漀爀欀猀栀漀瀀Ⰰ 䴀漀渀礀戀甀椀攀Ⰰ 䌀漀爀猀漀挀欀⸀ 䐀䜀㜀 ㌀䐀夀 眀眀眀⸀䠀愀爀爀椀猀ⴀ唀瀀栀漀氀猀琀攀爀礀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀 ㄀㘀㐀㐀 㐀㐀 㔀㈀㤀 Laden tables from a past Macmillan fundraiser at Hair by Jayne Glenkens Gazette page 3 GCAT WELCOMES HELEN KERON As the Gazette goes to print, Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) is delighted to announce the appointment of Helen Keron into the new executive manager role. She will take up the post in late October. Helen may be well-known to some of you, as she lives in New Galloway and is currently the education and community engagement officer for the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership Scheme. Helen said; "I'm looking forward to working with the excellent GCAT team of staff and volunteers to define this exciting new role – in particular working on the development of GCAT as an anchor organisation for the region, and working with community organisations right across the Glenkens to support delivery on the aspirations of the people who live here as set out in the Glenkens and District Community Action Plan." Alan Smith, chairman of GCAT, said: "We are delighted with this appointment, after a robust recruitment process, and are looking forward to Helen joining us in this exciting new role. We are very appreciative of the financial support from South of Scotland Enterprise and Blackcraig Wind Farm Community Fund which has made this appointment possible." We'll look forward to hearing more from Helen about her plans for the role, GCAT and the Community Action Plan in the next edition! Helen is pictured on the banks of Loch Ken. The Galloway Hoard Returns The Galloway Hoard is the richest collection of rare and unique Viking-age objects ever found in Britain or Ireland - and they were unearthed right here on the edge of the Glenkens. Buried around 900AD, in Balmaghie kirkyard, the Galloway Hoard has taken the world by storm. It brings together a stunning variety of materials and treasures from Ireland, the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms and as far away as Asia. The Hoard transports us back to a critical moment in history: the formation of the political entities we now know as Scotland, England and Ireland, in a time of Viking raids. The Hoard includes gold and silver valuables, what might be the first item of silk from that era found in Scotland, fantastic evocative crosses and a magnificent vessel which was wrapped in textiles. It was remarkably well preserved, and has advanced our understanding of life in Galloway all that time ago. After its discovery, a strong case was put forward for the Hoard to remain in Galloway. This was unsuccessful, with the items being installed at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh. However, part of the agreement was that it should come to Galloway on display and, for six months from October 2021, it is coming home to be displayed in the Kirkcudbright Galleries. The Galloway Glens Scheme, working with the Council’s Museums service, have been running a touring exhibit through September to whet people’s appetite for the return of the Hoard itself. If you do visit the Hoard in Kirkcudbright you will be able to admire the items yourself. When doing so, your mind may run to what Galloway was like in 900AD...Who had gathered the items here? Why had they buried them – did they intend to return? And always - what else is underneath our feet in Galloway, as yet undiscovered..? Pictured is Andy Nicholson unearthing some of the Viking Hoard along with pieces of the Hoard in the ground. Glenkens Gazette page 4 SWS RnR Charity Renovates Jock South West Scotland RnR works towards getting veterans back into full time work. "So far to date they have got 60 former combatants qualified and working as HGV drivers here in Dumfries & Galloway," says charity manager Robin Hood. Robin goes on to say: "The main publicity, and fundraising, attraction of our charity has always been our mascot, Jock. I have pulled Jock around on his trolley for a total of around 2,500 miles over the last five years, through rain and shine. As you can imagine, the weather had taken its toll so we decided it was time for Jock to undergoe a bit of a spruce up." Pictured are Jock and Robin, before and after the renovation. BLACKCRAIG WIND FARM COMMUNITY FUND NEW FUND DATES Applications open Friday 1st October 2021 Deadline Monday 10th January 2022 Decisions by mid March 2022 Around £105,000 is available for distribution in this round, with grants of £500 to £25,000 available. FUND CELEBRATION EVENT Dalry Town Hall, Sat Nov 6th 10am - 1pm Meet some funded projects and hear about their achievements, find out more about how to apply, chat with a Trustee and have a cuppa! Keep an eye on @glenkenstrust on Facebook for event details MORE INFORMATION Contact suzy@foundationscotland.org.uk for pre application info & support Keep up to date at www.glenkenstrust.org.uk or Facebook @glenkenstrust The Blackcraig Community Fund is delivered in partnership by Foundation Scotland, a charity and company registered in Scotland SC022910/SC152949; & Glenkens & District Trust SCIO SC042489 Glenkens Gazette page 5 RESPONSES TO LAST ISSUE'S GLENKENS HOUSING FOCUS Having read the article 'Tough Call for Landlords....' I would like to add some opinion. Although your article is mostly about the demands of the Energy Certificate being unreasonable, I have found that many other landlords are packing it in because the laws have increasingly become more biased towards 'protecting' tenants and castigating landlords, so much so that tenants can do no wrong and landlords are always to blame. I have a small flat in Kirkcudbright that I have let out over the last 20-odd years, and the kind of situations with a variety of tenants would include: - Tenant has a dog that ripped up the sitting room carpet. Cost: New carpet needed. - Tenant and boyfriend returned from the pub to realise they had left the front door keys in the flat. They kicked the door in and made a botched attempt to screw the bits back together. Cost: New front door. - Young tenants partying made so much noise in the flat the neighbours called the police. - Tenants leave without paying the last month's rent, stating that I can keep the deposit instead. This is okay only if there is no damage deductions, which is rare. And so on... The rent has only ever covered the mortgage and insurance, without covering repairs. I keep reluctantly saying to myself that the current tenancy will be the last, and I have contemplated converting the flat into AirBnB or holiday lets so I can have a little more control over my property, which I may have to move into in the future. Gazette Reader I was shocked to read the recent articles on home shortages in the Glenkens. Community is a word that’s thrown about and often misunderstood. My experience on arriving in the area five years ago was one of openness and acceptance. A community who looked out for one another and would help those in need. A heritage rich in local culture. What I fear now is the desecration of those values. Values slowly eroded thanks to the greed of those who see property as money making machines at the expense of community cohesion. The facts are stark. Thanks to the pandemic it’s generated a sellers’ market, and that’s not a good thing. It means local people cannot compete with corporate greed, those who seek a remote working site, or those who see a house as an additional income generator for holiday makers. There comes a time where the community have a duty to stand up Dear Editorial Team, I very much enjoyed the article by Michael Ansell on forest crofts. I probably qualify as an incomer but am not one to complain about potholed roads. I'd be very interested in supporting anyone exploring new initiatives around woodland crofting and re-estabishing community based agriculture or arboriculture. I'd be glad to be connected with like minded individuals to see if I can be of service or a willing cheerleader for those who can. Warm regards, AL It's the same here in Ayrshire - the estate agent I spoke to said it is folk from south of the border who regard our home areas as incredibly cheap. As they have loads of money compared to us locals, they are offering up to 40% over the asking price. It is horrifying as locals will be outpriced like Cornwall and the Lake District. He went on to say that some folk are so wealthy they are buying third and fourth holiday homes. Horrendous for buyers who want to stay in their home towns... Selina to this invasion of liberty and choice. Those who view a quaint Galloway cottage as a business opportunity rather than a home. Those who can afford to pay tens of thousands above market value, pricing local families out. Most of these homes are destined for holiday lets preventing the opportunity for local families to purchase. I appreciate the freedom to choose how people invest money, but at what cost? Community can’t operate when people are forced to leave family in order to live. There needs to be an onus on estate agents and those who advertise property on social media to prioritise local need first. To exhaust local routes before reaching the wider market beyond Scotland. I recently learned of a family who were given notice on a family home so it can be turned into an office for a seasonal business. This is deplorable when other suitable accommodation could be utilised, or created, on site. So, what can a community do when nothing illegal is taking place? We all have freedom of choice. Freedom to decide which businesses to support, which holiday rentals to advertise or provide a service to. Holiday lets need cleaning and maintaining, what would happen if that stopped? Choose to support local initiatives over others. Explore ways of utilising vacant properties for local people to live in. Use social media to highlight the issues of homelessness this is creating. Yes, homelessness. It may not seem much but make enough noise and see who will listen. If it creates opportunity for dialogue at government level, then it’s a start. It takes one voice to start a conversation. A heritage rich in culture is under threat of destruction. I’m one of the lucky ones. I have a home, but that doesn’t mean I don’t, or shouldn’t, care about those who are struggling to remain in an area they’ve grown up in and are connected to. This problem isn’t local, it’s spreading to all areas of Dumfries and Galloway. The Glenkens community deserve a place to call home, not a ghost town. Ian Glenkens Gazette page 6 GLENKENS PRIMARY SCHOOLS Hello and welcome to a new school year. This year we have seen a number of new children coming into both schools having moved into the area. They have augmented our new p1 and nursery starters, meaning each class has new faces. Welcome to everyone. We have been lucky with the weather so far with only a couple of rainy days, meaning we have been able to use the outside areas for learning activities. We were very excited to have had a school trip for the older children. (which feels like freedom and normality). We took a fleet of minibuses to comply with COVID regulations and went to a field in Crossmichael, where we met some Vikings who had set up an encampment there. The children were able to find out about daily life in Viking times; from money and bartering to food textiles, religion, fishing and transport. On the theme of normality we have started having whole school assemblies again, albeit outside. We are focusing on our core values of Kindness, Being Safe and Being Respectful. Each week we think about one of these aspects and celebrate good role models in the school. We are learning to live with the ever-changing picture of COVID and what it means to our school life. We rejoice in the bits of returning normality and look forward to a time where we can be fully open again. Until such times however, we will continue to look for solutions to the everyday challenges. Paul Scrimshaw, Head Teacher, Glenkens Primary Schools Partnership The children from Dalry P6/7 had an excellent visit to the Viking encampment at Crossmichael Marina, learning about the lives of the Vikings who lived in the Glenkens around 800 AD. They were accompanied at the camp by a Viking called Sven, which was great fun as he went around playing little jokes on the people in the various tents. At the weaver's tent, the children were taught about how wool was processed and dyed to make clothing and textiles. They also learned about the spinning and weaving process. The boat builder showed the children how to row a Viking long boat and how woodworking was done in Viking times. In the kitchen area, the children learned about flour and had a go at grinding the wheat grains into flour. The trader talked about how to check whether you had a good trade with metals and how to check if you had actual precious metals. The monk took the children on a pilgrimage, through storytelling, explaining about Cuthbert and how Kirkcudbright got its name. The children also went to the village hall and looked at an exhibition about the Galloway Hoard. Helen Keron guided the children through the history of this amazing local historical discovery. We had a great visit, and the children really enjoyed the experience. We all hope to go and see the Galloway Hoard when it arrives in Kirkcudbright later this year. Sabine Haynes, Dalry Primary Children from Kells Top: Dalry Primary pupils try their hand at rowing a Viking long ship. Above: Kells Primary pupils learn about growing wheat and making flour in Viking times. Primary visited the site at Crossmichael to learn about the Galloway Hoard and find out about life in the times of the Vikings. They learned about flax and making linen, using a quern stone and rowing. Hector said the best part was meeting Sven with his sword and Millie said she liked grinding flour with the quern stone. Margaret Heuchan, Kells Primary Fun Learning at Kells It has been really good term with lots of learning taking place. We have had lots of opportunities for outdoor learning thanks to the good weather! The p1s have settled into the class very well. Our topic has been 'Under the Sea' where we have been doing lots of artwork and science experiments relating to the ocean. We have also focused on the impact of climate change on the sea and explored the impact of ocean pollution. Eve Francis, Class Teacher, Kells Primary School Pictured are the new Kells P1 class, enjoying their very first school term. Glenkens Gazette page 7 Dalry Secondary School News It’s been fantastic to have our young learners back in school after lockdown and, whilst we do still have all of our control measures in place to keep pupils and staff safe, we are trying to ensure that school feels as normal as it can and opportunities are restricted as little as possible. Thankfully, the good summer weather has continued throughout the term which has afforded us the opportunity to get out and about in the local area as part of our Wednesday afternoon Wider Achievement Activities (WAA). During this time our main aims are to provide different experiences for our learners and also to help our learners recognise the skills they are developing that will be important in the world of work when they leave school. This term’s activities are Creative Writing, Music Technology and Green Engineering. The Green Engineering group is working towards creating more nesting sites for our local bird population. The group has been supported by the Galloway Glens Scheme and, on 1 September, we were taken on a guided walk by Nick Chisholm and Ellen Bielinski to learn about the types of habitat and bird species present in and around Dalry. A big thank you to Nick and Ellen and also to Duncan Ireland who kindly photographed the event. The Creative Writing group were joined by author Kathryn Koromilas and enjoyed a fascinating session on 'black out poetry'. Many thanks to Kathryn for providing this experience for our learners. The Music Technology group were visited by guest speaker, Ross Nurney, from Circa 16 recording studio and also took a trip to the CatStrand to improve their understanding of recording and creating music. The group are using Mixcraft 9 recording software to create their own pieces and we look forward to sharing these in the near future. Many thanks to Lucy Smith and Andrew Black at the CatStrand and to Ross Nurney and Dave Miller at Circa New Science Stuff This term the school was pleased to receive a donation of science equipment. The equipment was used by the Open University as a STEM outreach and the school were given some surplus equipment. We are very grateful and look forward to using it in future projects. Mr McEwan, Science Teacher, Dalry Secondary School 16 for their support in providing these experiences for our learners here at Dalry Secondary. Lorraine Gillies, Depute Head, Dalry Secondary School Pictured: Top - Alex, Joe and Keiran birdwatching with the Green Engineering group. Above - Eli tests out some of the recording equipment at the CatStrand in the Music Technology sessions. Glenkens Gazette page 8 CATSTRAND YOUTH GROUPS We rounded off the 2021 Youth Arts Summer Programme with a pedal powered Movie in the Park – Juno - programmed by Film Intern Thomas McClure. Since term has started weekly MMM dance classes with Sara Lockwood have been running, and we have hosted several one-off activities including a Food Themed Youth Volunteers session to celebrate Glenkens Food Month, a kite making workshop, and most recently an evening of storytelling around the campfire with Vikings. At the beginning of September we had our second setting of the Youth Spaces pilot project in the form of a pop-up outdoor Youth Club at Dalry Library, hosted by the Breathe Youth Project from Aberfeldy. Their setup included a marquee complete with inflatable sofas, fairy lights, coffee table with flowers in vases, a pizza oven and VR headsets. It was great to see everyone get stuck in with games, socialising and sports. Thanks to Dalry Library for being so accommodating! This marked the end of the Youth Work Internships for Finlay McGaw and Arran Macdonald Kiernan who have now completed their placements – thank you for all your hard work! If you’d be interested in completing an internship with us please get in touch – lucy@catstrand.com. Coming Up Youth Volunteers are back! Fortnightly Mondays 5.30-7.30pm at CatStrand from 27 September. Age 12+, free pizza! We’ll be working on putting together another Dirt Edits style adventure, Photoshop skills for a live competition and anything else you’d like to happen in Glenkens! Young people enjoying the Youth Spaces session at Dalry Library. We’ll also have fortnightly sessions of Art Explorers (from 9 October) at CatStrand, Random Writers at Dalry Library, and monthly Gaming Nights and Film Screenings. In the October half term we will have some seasonal events, including a Halloween Party, Halloween crafts and a spooktacular film night, as well as a highly creative and very fun workshop with artist Rosie Priest working to create art maps of the Glenkens – not to be missed! This autumn Kath Peters will be leading an exciting project devising short theatrical pieces that we will perform flash mob style in Dumfries and Glasgow during the COP26 summit in November. This will be open to ages 14+ and free to take part in. More information is available on the main GCAT website (www.gcat. scot) and on our social media (@ catstrandyoutharts on fb and insta), with leaflets and posters coming soon. If you’d like to join our mailing list contact lucy@catstrand. com. I’m keen to hear what you’d like to see coming up in Glenkens – please get in touch if you have an idea or suggestion! Lucy Smith, Youth Arts Coordinator, CatStrand Glenkens Gazette page 9 GAZETTE CROSSWORD 1 2 3 4 7 5 6 8 9 10 12 11 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 ACROSS DOWN 2 Investment type intent on reducing risk (5) 1 Leave a pursuer far behind (11) 5 Computing term for memory size (4) 2 Lift up from above (5) 7 Spin round (5) 3 Fictional extraterrestrial race of mutants (5) 8 Dame ______ Storey (5), 17 time Paralympic Champion 4 Compass point (4) 9 Consumption, inhalation (6) 5 Financial market condition (4) 10 Bicycle part (5) 6 Adorn (9) 12 Inter-country tax imposed on goods and services (6) 11 Stacey __________ (6), TV presenter and journalist 14 Before tax deductions (5) 13 Four time Tour de France winner, Chris ________ (6) 15 Digital or virtual currency (6) 14 Irish Police Force (5) 17 Fish eggs (3) 16 English for “Le cochon” (French) (3) 18 Moderate in intensity (4) 19 Dishonest, unprincipled (5) Chance to win £25 in vouchers for The Clachan Inn, Dalry Complete the crossword above and solve the anagram of the letters in the pink boxes. Send the winning word to philip.lancaster@sjpp.co.uk philip.lancaster@sjpp.co.uk and a winner will be chosen at random. Good luck! This crossword is sponsored by Lancaster Wealth & Investment Management (see ad on p10). Building Stone Database Anyone wishing to repair their old house sensitively might be interested to have a look at the Scottish Stone Database at webservices.bgs. ac.uk/buildingstone This is a joint initiative by Historic Environment Scotland and the British Geological Survey to raise awareness of the wonderful and varied old stone buildings that we have here in Scotland and to encourage people to repair them correctly. You can find out which quarry your stones came from and where you can obtain similar ones for repair. Sue Wiseman * Information obtained from The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings Glenkens Gazette page 10 BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT Monybuie Design & Harris Upholstery Monybuie Design and Harris Upholstery, run by Fiona and Tony Harris, are based just outside of Corsock, offering a full re-upholstery service and made-to-measure upholstered furniture. Monybuie Design, with Fiona Harris at the helm, recently won a Scottish Enterprise Award for Best Bespoke Upholstery Furniture Designer. With Monybuie Design, the AnySizeSofa brand has expanded out from made-to-measure sofas and chairs, encompassing almost anything to do with fabric and leather upholstery. Fiona has been designing furniture for over 30 years, having ‘married into' a family upholstery business with four generations of experience. Monybuie Design grew from this as she took her design skills and their upholstery expertise to create bespoke furniture, specialising in creating one-off commissions, from bespoke sofas and chairs, to headboards, footstools and make curtains and blinds. Fiona works on designs considering unusual access requirements, making furniture for specific spaces, or simply turning a customer’s design ideas into reality. The largest project they have undertaken was to design all the bedroom upholstery and public areas for two boutique hotels in Berlin. Working alongside husband Tony, who looks after Harris Upholstery, the couple take on all types of upholstery jobs, from traditional (bringing antique sofas, chairs, and footstools back to their former glory) to more modern re-upholstery. They also work on commissions for local restaurants, pubs and hotels, having recently worked on the refurbishment of places such as The Masonic Arms in Gatehouse of Fleet and The Maxwell Arms in Dalbeattie. For further information you can call Fiona on 01644 440 529 or email harrisupholstery@btinternet.com or alternatively visit either www. AnySizeSofa.co.uk or www.HarrisUpholstery.co.uk Make a financial plan today ... for peace of mind tomorrow Pop-in for a coffee and friendly chat about protecting you and your loved ones, helping you achieve your goals, and making time for the things you really love. DROP IN DATES (1PM-4PM): Friday 8th October Friday 22nd October Saturday 6th November Friday 19th November VENUE: Catstrand New Galloway Lancaster Wealth & Investment Management | Associate Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management MOBILE: 07983 700844 EMAIL: philip.lancaster@sjpp.co.uk Lancaster Wealth & Investment Management is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Glenkens Gazette page 11 - Shop online: www.ballardsbutchers.co.uk Email: shop@ballardsbutchers.co.uk Tel: 01556 502 501 Free Local Delivery Tues & Fri (orders over £20) Wide Variety of Local Produce Butcher Meat Fruit & Veg Milk & Bread Available to order 2nd Saturday Monthly Dalry Town Hall, 10am-1pm - 9th October & 13th November - Click & Collect online with the Glenkens Food Hub at https:// openfoodnetwork.org.uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop or just visit us on the day - for further details call 07776 034 260 entry by donation on the door (15 miles from Castle Douglas on A713) Main distributor for Cheval Liberte and Debon in South West Scotland. We specialise in all sizes of horse trailers, tipping and box trailers. Viewings welcome by appointment. www.dgtrailersales.co.uk sales@dgtrailersales.co.uk 01644 717 394 Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP Solicitors and Estate Agents Dumfries & Galloway 01556 503744 www.ggblaw.co.uk All legal advice Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie Kirkcudbright and Dumfries Glenkens Gazette page 12 Revisiting Detective Classics 4: John Dickson Carr A lesser known, but rather prolific, crime and mystery novelist of Scottish descent, most of his novels were written between the 1930s and 1950s. He also produced many radio plays for the BBC, including during the Second World War. Carr spent some of his early years in France and his first detective novel, Castle Skull, is set in the Rhineland. Another, The Case of the Constant Suicides, is set in a Scottish castle. Carr also uses World War Two as the theme for some of his mysteries, notably Murder in the Submarine Zone and The Reader is Warned. His first detective was the Frenchman, Henri Bencolin, followed by Dr Gideon Fell and then Sir Henry Merrivale. NOW ONLINE! Carr makes fair use of the ‘locked room’ mystery in a number of his books. The Mad Hatter Mystery, The Hollow Man and She Died a Lady are amongst my favourites. I still have a few more to find and to read. They do not seem to be quite as easy to find as some of the other classic detective fiction. However, his radio plays are easy enough to find, varying between 35 and 90 minutes long. Donald Sinden made an excellent Dr Fell in one series based on Carr’s books. Bruce Smith CROSSMICHAEL COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY CENTRE Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine The Old School, Crossmichael, DG7 3AP ORDER ONLINE OR BY PHONE Offering time-tested, personalised acupuncture and traditional Chinese herbal medicine to the Dumfries & Galloway region. Fleet Fish source a large selection of top quality fish, fruit and vegetables from market place to your door. Practitioner Matthew Pajo has been studying and practising Chinese medicine for over 25 years and has completed a BHSc in acupuncture and has attained a MAppSc in Chinese Herbal Medicine We also stock chicken, sausages and cold meats plus eggs, milk and cheese. Contact Matthew on 07786 079 845 Much more than a fish van! Order before 9pm Sunday for delivery the following Friday 07966 103 912 charliecoid@hotmail.com www.fleet-fish.co.uk We are pleased to welcome chartered psychologist Amber Dunlop-Pajo to the Crossmichael Complementary Therapy Centre. Amber has spent over 20 years working as a psychologist, with a special focus on health psychology. Amber specialises in womens' health as well as depression, stress and anxiety. Contact Amber on 07389 713 106 Glenkens Gazette page 13 CatStrand Highlights MUSIC AND GIGS Glenkens Folk Weekend 9-10 October: Plenty to keep music fans entertained over the weekend. On the Saturday, Scottish folk favourites Breabach return to the CatStrand with their music deeply rooted in Highland and Island tradition and the innovative musical ferment of their Glasgow base. Prior to this you can catch the first in a new monthly series High Tea Tunes join Moniaive harpist Wendy Stewart for a concert, tea and scones at the Balmaclellan Smiddy. On the Sunday afternoon, Leveret perform in Dalry Town Hall. Leveret is the combined forces of three of England’s finest folk musicians: Andy Cutting (button accordion), Sam Sweeney (fiddle) and Rob Harbron (concertina). Their performances combine consummate musicianship, compelling delivery and captivating spontaneity. Join us after the concert and bring your instruments at the Clachan Inn for a folk session lead by Oli Rigg, Michael Muir (Muckle Spree) and Lucy Smith. Saturday 13 November is the date for the second of the High Tea Tunes series, featuring Alex McQuiston and young cellist Will Archibald. DANCE AND THEATRE 17 October in Dalry Town Hall: Scottish Dance Theatre’s artistic director Joan Clevillé presents an intimate solo work. What do you do when the state becomes the oppressor? Would you put your body on the line? Antigone, Interrupted re-imagines a classic story for a contemporary world through the body and the voice of a single performer. 22 October at the CatStrand: Waves by Mary Alice Cooper is the tale of Elizabeth Moncello and how, growing up in the 1930s, she came to be the unofficial Breabach return to CatStrand inventor of the butterfly stroke. Waves is about having the courage, desire, and determination to swim against the tide of expectation. An extraordinary tale of a life fully lived. 2 November at the CatStrand: Classic lunchtime theatre is back, with the return of the very popular Rapture Bite’s series. Rapture Theatre present the Dock Brief - a delightful comedy about the law, life and love. What happens when an unsuccessful murderer meets an even more unsuccessful barrister? 24 November the CatStrand: Mull Theatre present Ever Brilliant Thing. Duncan Macmillan’s heart-wrenching and hilarious play about depression and the lengths we'll go to for someone we love. Based on true and untrue stories. “You’re seven years old. Mum’s in hospital. Dad says she’s ‘done something stupid’. She finds it hard to be happy. You make a list of everything that’s brilliant about the world.” Also look out for the rescheduled date of Andre Anderson’s Playing Together, an outdoor dance show about the power of play, its effect on us, and why recreation activity is important for our recovery. Peter Renwick, CatStrand GCAT Welcomes Back Peter Renwick Thank you for such a warm welcome back to the Glenkens. I look forward to getting to know you all as I take up the hugely exciting role of arts, culture & heritage manager for the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT). It's a real privilege to be able to stage the GCAT programme - there are only a few places in Scotland where you can see such a high quality programme in such an intimate environment. I’m looking forward to working with partner venues, and I hope to be able to stage some special events in the surrounding landscape. I moved from Edinburgh to New Galloway around 2010 to take up a marketing support role at the CatStrand. At this time Cathy Agnew was chair, Karen Donald the programmer, and Brian Edgar was on the board. I’ve been programming performing arts across D&G ever since then. Working with Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival, Dumfries Theatre Royal, The Stove, DG Council, and Moat Brae. Most recently, I was the producer of The Village and The Road by Tom Pow and The Galloway Agreement (performed at the CatStrand at the beginning of September), and the programmer for the launch weekend of Creetown’s new venue, The Quarrymen’s Arts Centre. I’m addicted to the Peter Renwick, GCAT's new thrill of staging events and arts, culture & heritage manager. seeing an expectant audience walking into a room. Coming back into the is that I’ll do my best. Glenkens you see a new and renewed Alan Smith, Chairman of GCAT, sense of confidence and pride. This is commented: “All at GCAT are delighted reflected in the work of the Galloway that Peter took up the post. He brings Glens Scheme, The Loch Ken Trust, New a wealth of experience in programming Galloway Community Enterprises and and running events. He’s well known many others. I’ve come in at a really amongst Dumfries & Galloway's artists good time as Helen Keron is taking on the and venues and has an excellent post of executive manager and I have no knowledge of the Scottish and UK doubt that GCAT has a big job to do. touring sector. He has a clear dedication I’d like to pay tribute to the work that to creating an arts programme that has Aidan Nicol has done. In my first two the broadest reach and that reflects the weeks here it has been often said that artists and communities of this region.” she leaves ‘big boots to fill'. All I can say Peter Renwick Glenkens Gazette page 14 CENTENARY OF THE POPPY Artificial poppies were first used as a symbol of remembrance in 1921; this year is the centenary of their use and therefore is an apt time to remember the Glenkens connection. In Carsphairn churchyard, on the right as you approach the church, is a gravestone to the splendidly named Marmaduke Macrae. He was born in Old Cumnock in 1776 and was farming at the Holm of Dalquhairn, Carsphairn when his son David was born in 1800. David grew up and was farming at Dukieston in Kells parish when his son, Thomas, was born in 1820. Dukieston is now a ruin in Forrest Estate, lying in the plantation up behind Dukieston Cottage. Thomas attended the Kells school, New Galloway (now the CatStrand). Thomas married and farmed in Laurieston where he had a son called David born in 1845 and this movement from one place to another was typical of those employed in agriculture at the time. A few years later, Thomas and his family emigrated to Canada and settled in Guelph, Ontario where Thomas became one of the foremost breeders of Galloway cattle in North America. In due course, David grew up, became an Army Officer and had a family of his own, one of whom (John born on 30 November 1872) is the key part of this history. John McCrae also joined the Army and served in the Boer War and later the First World War where he became a medical officer and was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel. He was in charge of a field hospital during the Second Battle of Ypres in Belgium and it was there that he wrote the poem In Flanders Fields following the death of his friend Alexis Helmer, the poem being written on 3 May 1915 and published soon after in Punch magazine. John McCrae himself died later in the war. In Flanders Fields was the inspiration for the poppy to be adopted as a symbol of remembrance and the poem itself is used at almost every remembrance service in the UK, Canada, Australia and many other countries. Marmaduke’s gravestone can still be seen in Carphairn churchyard and memorials to John McCrae can be ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY SCANNING Dairy & Sucklers; Ageing, Twin & Barren Detection. Trailer system includes triplets, marking and shedding. Pregnancy and number of pups. For bookings and info: Duncan Kennedy 07860 474001 dk@passcan.co.uk www.passcan.co.uk Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae seen the world over including the In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres, his old family home in Guelph which is now a museum and at Eilean Donan Castle where there is a McCrae clan memorial featuring his poem. Below is John's poem, In Flanders' Fields. Paul Goodwin Glenkens Gazette page 15 Dalry War Memorial Centenary On Saturday 11 September, nearly seventy people gathered at Dalry war memorial to attend a ceremony commemorating the centenary of the unveiling of their war memorial. In fine September weather, people had travelled from far and wide; one travelled all the way from Aberdeen and another up from Luton to attend the event. The turnout was creditable for such a small community. Hilda McAdam of the Dalry Heritage Group did a splendid job of co-ordinating the various efforts especially the publicity and invitations. Rev Dr David Bartholomew acted not only as Minister but as the Master of Ceremonies for the occasion and Paul Goodwin spoke about the history of the memorial and of its continuing importance as a focus for remembrance. Various unsung people appeared, moved chairs, tidied and made sure that it all went smoothly; a great sign of local community spirit. A late refusal of permission by the council meant that the parade could not process down the road from the Town Hall as planned or even down the pavement. They instead met at the memorial and those who wished were invited to move to the session house where piper Mackenzie Lawrie led them back to the memorial. Many of those who walked behind the piper were descendants of those who had been on that original parade. Many had probably never followed a piper before and may not have the chance to do so again, no doubt they were thinking of that original parade on 11 September 1921. Last Post and Reveille were played by the bugler for the day, Paul Scrimshaw, head teacher of Glenkens Primary Schools. Lord Sinclair laid the wreath, not in his capacity as Lord Lieutenant but as the grandson of the Hon Mrs Sinclair who had unveiled the memorial a century earlier. The wreath itself was not one of poppies as we have come to expect but was a faithful reproduction of an original wreath used one hundred years earlier. Jim Hutchison used his smartphone to video the ceremony for the benefit of those who were unable to attend and his video is available at https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=_WSCutyoLxE Paul Goodwin Photographs by Heidi Bartholomew Gordon McAdam N ew Galloway Golf Club Founded Foun ded 1902 www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk - 01644 420737 Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Plumbing & Heating HOUSE REPAIRS JOINERY 22 Kirkland Street St John’s Town of Dalry Semi-retired Furniture Maker & Builder in GLENKENS AREA 01644 430 393 07834 321 789 Call Pete on 07970 462 088 ...special rates for inclusion of tea, cake and friendly banter... Glenkens Gazette G A L L O W AY G L E N S As the nights start drawing in, the Galloway Glens Team have been working with a range of partners to provide a fascinating series of events to carry us through the darker months. November sees the critical COP26 Climate Change conference in Glasgow. We’ll be exploring the impact of climate change from a Galloway perspective, how will we be impacted and what part can we play in creating a flourishing future for all. peatland connections 06 October, 7.30pm Galloway Peatlands are a vital part of Scotland’s Peat arsenal. Crichton Carbon Centre will give us a tour of what we know and what we don’t know. Join us to explore what work is underway locally to adapt to the impacts of climate change and what creative practices have to do with it. Event hosted in Kirkcudbright’s Dark Space Planetarium, book to attend either in person or online. Good Neighbours: Home & Away – the tales of a wayward goose. 20 october, 7.30pm. Tickets £8. The Wild Goose Festival and Galloway Glens presents a unique evening of science and story. With performances from the story weavers of Moat Brae and lectures from eminent scientists on the adventures of geese. Event hosted in Moat Brae, book to attend in person or online. Galloway Trout Travellers 03 november, 7.30pm Meet the common trout, a fish that has travelled around the world. Transported to far-flung places, but does a Trout ever change its spots? An evening with prominent local artists and world-class scientists. Event hosted in New Galloway’s Catstrand, book to attend either in person or online. page 16 The Wild Woods of Western Europe 17 November, 7.30pm Scruffy and dishevelled woodland: the engine for biodiversity and the lungs of the earth. From ancient woodlands to forests-long-gone, what have we learned? Event hosted in Dalry Town Hall, book to attend either in person or online. Let’s Grouse 01 december, 7.30pm Burns was described as “nothing more than a singing blackcock”. The Black Grouse used to strut around the Uplands, along with our national bard. But there is trouble ahead for this iconic species, what can we do? Event hosted in Balmaclellan Smiddy, book to attend either in person or online. inspirational threave 15 december, 7.30pm Something exciting is happening at Kelton Mains. The world is watching, but where did this project come from? Where is it going and what does it mean? Event hosted in Threave House, book to attend either in person or online. Robins: A friendly Christmas character? 22 december, 7.30pm For too long, the Robin has adorned our Christmas scenes, as a saint amongst birds. But let’s unpick this, from Viking Folklore to Victorian tradition, how did the bird get away with it? Event hosted in CatStrand, book to attend either in person or online. All events a ‘Hybrid’: re y can att ou e online nd or i person! n Full joining instructions will be issued after booking. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @gallowayglens for updates on upcoming events. Book your place: www.gallowayglens.org/events. Queries: info:gallowayglens.org. Many thanks to all partners involved. Glenkens Gazette page 17 The Optimistic Environmentalist MYTHS & MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT RECYCLING - Part Two How is recycling handled by Dumfries & Galloway Council? Below are some questions answered by D&G Council. How do the items from our bins get sorted - is it by hand or machine? Items collected in the recycling bins may be sent across a picking line and there is likely to be an element of both hand and mechanical sorting. Is different coloured glass treated in the same way or does the council have to separate it out? The company we send our glass to (Viridor, in Newhouse near Glasgow) use an optical separator to separate different colours of glass. This is more cost-effective than collecting and processing separate colours. What happens to items that are mixed e.g. the widget in a drink's can is plastic, not metal? If it is made of a recyclable material and can be separated during processing it may be recycled but there will always be a percentage of materials that are ‘rejected’ through the recycling process. Which plastics do DGC recycle? In line with most other Scottish local authorities, we use a simple message for plastics. We collect all plastic bottles, pots tubs and trays in order to encourage as many people to recycle as possible. The companies we send the materials to will sort these into separate waste streams and process. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET; Type ‘1’), High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE; Type ‘2’) and Polypropylene (PP; Type ‘5’) are the most straightforward to recycle. PET and HDPE are the most commonly used materials for plastic bottles, pots tubs and trays, although compressed polystyrene (Type 6) is also used in some yoghurt pots. We would expect our offtakers to recycle this material. Other types of plastics are unlikely to be recycled (this includes hard plastics used in producing for example CD and DVD cases, plant pots and plastic toys). For further information, see the A-Z list on our website at: https:// www.dumgal.gov.uk/article/21405/ New-Waste-and-Recycling-Service Is it true that there is a minimum size for recycling? If so, is this why you do not recycle caps off bottles? Can you recycle them if they are screwed back on to the bottles or are they made from different plastic? There is no minimum size and plastic or metal caps placed in your redlidded bin will be sent for recycling although certain types of hard plastic are very difficult to process and may not be recycled. People say "everything just gets dumped in landfill anyway". What actually happens? What does the council do with each item in the recycling? Recycling is generally cheaper than processing mixed waste, so it would not make sense to invest millions in a separated collection system to then send it all to mixed waste processing. Landfill is the least environmentally acceptable solution and the most costly. There is an article on what happens to each waste stream on our website at: https://www.dumgal.gov. uk/article/22036/What-Happens-tomy-Waste-and-Recycling Non-recyclable waste is collected from the kerbside where it is sent to the Ecodeco Mechanical Biological Treatment (MBT) facility on the outskirts of Dumfries. Here waste is shredded and dried by heat produced naturally as a result of biological activity. This drying process recovers around 30% of the weight of the waste as moisture which is passed through a biofilter to atmosphere and returned to the natural water cycle. The principal output of the facility is a fuel used in specialist Energy from Waste (EfW) plants. Other outputs include glass and stone which are turned into an aggregate replacement product, and metal which is recovered, cleaned and recycled. People often say "it all gets sent abroad" and when it's abroad there is no guarantee that it will be recycled. Where does DGC send their recycling and do they know what it is used for? Where we can, we use Scottish or UKbased companies to process waste. Unfortunately the amount of waste produced in Scotland and the rest of the UK exceeds recycling capacity, therefore materials are often sent to Europe where the recycling industry is more established. Scotland is catching up though and we hope that in time, materials can be processed at home (or even better, we all reduce the amount of waste we produce). Dumfries and Galloway Council has a duty of care to ensure the waste we collect on your behalf is processed responsibly. Any company we use will have been carefully vetted and we know that glass, most metals and fibres (paper and card) are processed within the UK. However, it is common for materials to be passed on from company to company and each time this happens it becomes harder to track. We are not aware of any of our waste being sent outside of Europe. Does DGC have any other plans for recycling in the future e.g. for clothes, household items? For now, our focus is on encouraging as many people as possible to use the new recycling service, and to minimise contamination, enabling us to make a significant improvement in our recycling rates. The new system is flexible to change, so if new technology comes in that allows us to recycle a wider range of items such as plastic bags or crisp packets at an affordable price, we can make changes. The Scottish government has set a target for local authorities of recycling 70% of municipal waste collected by 2025. This is ambitious and to meet it will require further steps, such as a garden waste collection service and reducing the amount of general nonrecyclable waste we collect. We will also be supporting initiatives to reduce waste or find alternative uses for unwanted items, to cut down on the amount collected. This includes supporting the establishment of a new re-use shop at the Dumfries Zero Waste Park once constructed. Denise MacDonald-Kiernan Glenkens Gazette page 18 sponsored by If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk FREE Trampoline, Dalry. Contact: 01644 430 555 Small automatic washing machine. Hotpoint WMTL79 top loading with retractable wheels. Suitable for single person or couple. Contact: 07788 192 586 Four panel screen/room divider, MDF, neutral colour but easily painted, 183cm high, each panel 44cm wide. Contact: 01644 430218 Saddle holder, wall mounted, black coated steel, good condition. Contact: 01644 430218 Poultry drinker, galvanised metal. Contact: 01644 430218 Camp bed, folds in half for storage (90cm when folded). Contact: 01644 430218 Welsh onion plants, potted up. Alchemilla mollis (Lady's Mantle) may need help to dig these out. Also Aspidistras. Contact: Sue on 07563 718 011 Horse manure (including some chicken manure), rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 FOR SALE Wooden stool set, new - £4. Bike training stand, new (stand your bike in this and use as an exercise bike) - £10. 2 bed rail safety sides - £10 each. Large wardrobe - £50ono. Contact: 07876 353 557. WANTED Perennial candytuft (evergreen), iberis semparvirens. Contact: Sue on 07563 718 011 Wright’s Shop & Post Office Friday grocery delivery and daily paper round now available within Dalry - please phone to enquire. stocking a range of local suppliers • Express Bakery bread • • Irvings biscuits & cakes • • Ballards & Dalmellington Country Butchers meat & pies • • Mitchells fruit & veg • Shop & Post Office open 7 days Monday to Friday 7am–6pm Saturday 8am–6pm Sunday 8.30am–4pm Tel 01644 430 225 Large rabbit hutch or similar wanted. Contact: 07889 229 340’ Old lawn mowers/strimmers/ other small machinery. Nonrunners/broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 We are seeking to buy a home with 2-3 bedrooms and 3-5 acres of land, somewhere in the Glenkens. We've been here for almost two years renting, are active in the local community and want to put down roots. Anywhere and any condition considered - please help us to stay in the Glenkens! Contact: Abi and Bruce on 07340 531506 or abi@mordin.net Glenkens Gazette page 19 sponsored by The Glenkens: The Beating Heart of Scotland's First UNESCO Biosphere The Glenkens sits at the heart of Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere, a global designation which recognises the region’s unique natural and cultural heritage and potential for innovation in sustainable development. In its present form the Biosphere covers 5,268 km² of south-west Scotland across the three local authority areas, its geographical boundary based on catchments of the rivers that flow out of the Galloway Hills (see map). More than half of the Biosphere’s staff live within the Glenkens (the team held their most recent Development Day at The Smiddy at Balmaclellan). From mushrooms to mistlethrushes and from Crossmichael to Carsphairn, Glenkens life features prominently in the Biosphere’s social media feeds. Residents are doubtless familiar with local ‘Biosphere in action’ projects such as those run by Galloway Glens, while many of the businesses and community groups which have signed up to the Biosphere’s Proud Supporter scheme are local household names. The Smithy and the CatStrand in New Galloway, the Clachan Inn at Dalry, and Galloway Activity Centre on Loch Ken are prominent Proud Supporters, all committed to sustainable practice and the Biosphere ethos of supporting the local community and economy in everyday life. While working to protect and celebrate life in the Glenkens and beyond, the Biosphere is also a key player in achieving Dumfries & Galloway Council’s ambitious climate change goals which are aiming for net zero carbon emissions by 2025. The impacts of global warming that are already being felt in the Glenkens are being recorded across the entire Biosphere region, from the increasing frequency of ‘exceptional’ summer temperatures to flooding, soil erosion, habitat loss, and an upheaval in biodiversity that has seen several native species go into drastic decline. Galloway and Southern Ayrshire became Scotland’s first UNESCO Biosphere when the designation was awarded in 2012, and with its 10th anniversary approaching next year the organisation is expanding public engagement and potentially its geographical reach. The Biosphere’s current boundary is under review, with a proposal to bring in the Rhins of Galloway having progressed to public consultation. Including the Rhins would bring in Luce Pictured are the new Biosphere lead officers (left to right) Bay and the Mull of - Tamara, Andrew and Jenna, all recruited this year, Galloway, Scotland’s photographed near the Holy Linn at Balmaclellan. southernmost point, while Stranraer with its population of Anyone wishing to participate in the approximately 13,000 - would become consultation on bringing in the Rhins the largest Biosphere town. Becoming is invited to take the online survey at part of the Biosphere could bring useful https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ attention to the challenges described BiosphereBoundaryReview (being above: those specific to the Rhins as conducted in association with Solway well as those shared with the Glenkens Firth Partnership). and rural Scotland as a whole. More information about Galloway and The UNESCO designation has the Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere potential to attract investment and is available at www.gsabiosphere. research, also to generate partnership org.uk or by email request to info@ projects that support education, skills gsabiosphere.org.uk training and business enterprise. The Tamara Fulcher, Biosphere Biosphere is proudly community-led Communications & Marketing Officer and any expansion will be steered by the collective community voice. page 20 Advertisement Glenkens Gazette Maximising local opportunities for a fossil free future Vattenfall’s Ray Wind Farm, Northumberland Quantans Hill and Whiteneuk Wind Farms: proposals updated As we build South Kyle Wind Farm north of Carsphairn, Vattenfall is working hard to create opportunities for local people, communities and businesses. We want to build on this with two further renewable energy investments in Dumfries and Galloway - Quantans Hill Wind Farm and Whiteneuk Wind Farm, projects which could create a pipeline of further opportunities for local jobs, skills development, businesses and enterprise, community benefits and natural habitats across South West Scotland. This winter, our proposals for Quantans Hill and Whiteneuk will be finalised and submitted to Planning. Ahead of that, each scheme has been updated as part of our comprehensive design review, a process shaped by local feedback and environmental data. Both proposed developments have been reduced in scale, with fewer and lower turbines; layouts sensitive to local landscape, heritage, wildlife and habitats, whilst offering substantial community benefits for the local areas. Please find out more about the proposals and their opportunities by visiting our online exhibitions at Proposed location of Quantans Hill Wind Farm www.vattenfall.co.uk/quantanshill www.vattenfall.co.uk/whiteneuk Alternatively, contact us at: quantanshill.windfarm@vattenfall.com whiteneuk.windfarm@vattenfall.com Vattenfall Wind Power Ltd. St Andrew’s House, Haugh Lane, Hexham, Northumberland NE46 3QQ Tel: 01563 595044 Proposed location of Whiteneuk Wind Farm Glenkens Gazette page 21 Sponsored by the Mac & Cheese Co Photo of the Issue Stockbridge This issue’s winner is Eilidh MacPherson from Marbrack Farm, Carsphairn, with her photograph titled 'Galloways Back on Marbrack After 22 Years'. Eilidh wins two portions of mac & cheese of her choice from our competition sponsors, the Balmaclellan-based Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Co. Company owner and competition judge, Hannah Gould, said: "I love cows! Especially Galloways and belties. You can't beat a hillside scattered with these gentle, furry teddy bear beasts. I guess working with cheese all the time, with the mac 'n' cheese company, you develop a love of milk and a newfound respect for the animals which produce it!" To enter you can send in any photograph taken in the Glenkens to glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk ELSPETH MCEWAN OF BOGHA Elspeth McEwan was the most famous convicted witch in Galloway and the last to be burnt at the stake in Southern Scotland. By all accounts she was an elderly educated woman who lived alone in a cottage called Bogha on the farm known as the Cubbox in the parish of Balmaclellan. She was sometimes known as "the old wife of Bogha". She was accused of tormenting her neighbours by witchcraft including interfering with their hens either by making them lay vast numbers of eggs or none at all, and by stealing milk by use of a moveable pin which she kept hidden in the rafters and which could draw milk from any cow. In 1696, the church session was called to act; Beadle McLambroch was sent to fetch her and given the minister’s horse to bring her back. With both of them on the same horse, they reached the hill up to the manse at Balmaclellen when the mare became tormented and, in its fear, started to sweat blood. Since then, the hill has been known locally as Bluidy Brae and some say it is haunted. Elspeth was imprisoned for two years in Kirkcudbright Tolbooth where she was tortured and begged for the release of death. In March 1698 she was tried for the "horid cryme of witchcraft" and confessed to "a contract and regular commerce with the Devil, and of practising charms and other evil magical acts to the harm of the people". On 24 August 1698 she was taken to Silver Craigs in Kirkcudbright where she was first strangled and then burnt at the stake. Her executioner was William Kirk and he was rewarded with a monetary fee, a suit of clothes, food and a pint of ale "when she was burning". Unmarked stone in Balmaclellan church yard, thought to mark the grave of Elspeth McEwan. Local tradition has it that an unmarked stone in Balmaclellan churchyard marks Elspeth McEwan’s burial place. Glenkens Gazette page 22 GLENKENS PLACE NAMES: PART XII Continuing up the Polmaddy Glen the next former habitation we reach is Holmhead of Castlemaddy situated on the north side of the burn, not far off the old track that ran from Drumness to Castlemaddy. tough and simple life. He describes the brothers harvesting potatoes there and a nice photograph in the Carsphairn Heritage Archives shows the brothers and one of their sisters making hay stooks in the former hay field behind the cottage. After afforestation the house was abandoned before becoming part of the Mountain Bothies Association network of shelters. I remember in the 1970s when the barn beside the house was still standing and in pretty good condition. Unfortunately due to the Forestry Commission road providing easy access to motorised transport the property became something of As the Scots part of the place-name a magnet for anti-social ‘holm’ suggests the house was behaviour and therefore more situated on a piece of level trouble than it was worth to the ground beside the river. This Forestry Commission and was was probably quite a fertile demolished in 2011. area in the past although It might be worth mentioning maybe prone to waterlogging. a few other place-names on the The Forestry Commission former farm of Castlemaddy. planted the holm with the On the hill to the north of the ubiquitous Sitka spruce which cottage is Clashbrock Bog were subject to windblow and and the Peat Hass. This is an were clearfelled in the last extensive area of peat land few years. This treatment which should never have been has obliterated all trace of planted in the first rotation the former cottage which had and unfortunately has been evidently been abandoned well This photo was taken in 1923 and shows Rab, Sam and replanted following felling. before afforestation. In 1853 Jessie Wilson making hay at the Shiel o’ Castlemaddy, Clashbrock is from Scots Gaelic according to the OS Name Book courtesy of the Carsphairn Heritage Initiative Archive at Clais Bruic, ‘badger hollow’, states: "The ruins of an old www.carsphairn.org/CarsphairnArchive although ‘broc’ could also refer (herd's) house on the farm of to the fox, perhaps more likely Castlemaddy, and situated on at this location. The Scots may just possibly have been a more a portion of arable land on the Northern terms hass, haas, hause, hals, etc have substantial lodge justifying the term margin of 'Pulmaddy Burn'." several meanings but the sense here is caisteal. It is possible these were created likely to be ‘peaty defile’. The former arable land referred by the Forestry Commission during to seems to have been largely left Just west of Clashbrock Bog is a rock unplanted by Forestry and Land Scotland certain operations but they appear to on the noth slope of the hill called be visible in pre-afforestation aerial and is now reverting to a naturally Craigenwallie. This rock used to be regenerating mixture of willow, alder and photography. However some years ago a cleary visible from the forestry track posse of local metal detectorists failed to self-sown Sitka spruce. before the second rotation grew too tall. find anything that might have suggested The land on which Holmhead of It may be derived from Scots Gaelic such a use for the site. Castlemaddy stood was clearly part of Creag a’ Bhealaich, ‘rock of the pass’, Castlemaddy farmhouse itself has seen the large farm of Castlemaddy which perhaps referring to the gap between service as a Scout Hut and now is leased was bounded by the farms of Largerie it and Acquaintance Hill to the west, on a long lease to the MoD who use it to and Darnaw on the east, Braidenoch through which the present-day forestry practice storming buildings and so on. and Kiltersan to the north and probably road runs. It is maintained in wind and watertight stretching to the ridge line of the Rhinns Acquaintance Hill is interesting in that condition at least. of Kells, including Carlin’s Cairn. As well Dwelly lists an obsolete term cointean, The Sheil of Castlemaddy was the last as the main farmhouse of Castlemaddy, ‘contentious man, wrangler, controversy’ inhabited house in the Polmaddy Glen. It this farm had three other subsidiary and cointinn, ‘a dispute’, occurs in Irish. was described in 1853 in the OS Name holdings of which Holmhead was one. An Cointean, ‘the dispute’, might lie Books as a small one storey thatched Northside of Castlemaddy was situated behind Acquaintance Hill and Quantans house in good repair. It had probably about a mile north of Holmhead beside Hill near Carsphairn. Of course there only recently been built. Andrew the old track that led from Castlmaddy are numerous threiplands, ‘disputed McCormick wrote a chapter in his book to Carsphairn via Braidenoch and lands’, and similar, formed in Scots. Galloway: The Spell of its Hills and Kiltersan. It is shown on the OS 1st It may be of relevance that on Blaeu Glens entitled ‘The Sheil Folk’. In it he edition map as being at the centre of we find the burn-name Achinbreith B describes visiting The Sheil on a walking a complex of fields and dykes. It was near Castlemaddy. This looks like ach’ holiday and staying with the family who also ruined by 1853. Until the first Sitka na breith, ‘field of the judgement’. It lived there, presumably in the 1920s. rotation was harvested about 18 years seems an odd name for a field but The house had evidently been expanded ago the footings of Northside could still it does looks like it is in the same in size by then as it was occupied by Rob be seen but the subsequent harvesting approximate place as Acquaintance Hill. and Samuel Wilson and their two sisters. and replanting operations have Does this potentially flag up an area of McCormick paints probably a rather rosy, obliterated all trace of the foundations, previous contention, perhaps between romanticised picture of life at The Sheil tracks, dykes, etc. landowners? Michael Ansell, and the reality was probably a pretty Castlemaddy itself is about a mile Cars Fèarna further up the glen. Its name derives from Scots Gaelic Caisteal nam Madadh, ‘castle of the dogs', (or possibly wolves). The most likely explanation behind this place-name is that Castlemaddy was a hunting lodge originally, part of the huge Forest of Buchan, later converted into an extensive farm and that the madaidhean referred to were hunting dogs. There is no trace of a fortification in the area now: the present surviving farmhouse is 19th Century in origin. However it may be worth noting that there appear to be earthworks visible in a bend of the Polmaddy, across the river from Holmhead of Castlemaddy which Glenkens Gazette page 23 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN Mary Louisa Cannan Mary Louisa Cannan (1819-1911) was born in New Spynie, Elgin, where her father was the minister and married to one of the four Miss Kennedys of Knocknalling. Mary was their first born. This lady’s parentage had been celebrated in the Glenkens for hundreds of years. When she was eight the family returned home when Rev Thomas Cannan became minister of Carsphairn, courtesy of Lord Selkirk. The journey from Spynie to Edinburgh by coach took a week and involved spending another week in the city since coaches were fully booked, but a bonus was a glimpse of Walter Scott on Princes Street. She apparently did not fear the cold, enjoying curling and sledging in just her short sleeves. She rejoiced in "a free wild life" running about the Carsphairn hills. Her dad kept sheep, cattle and a horse; the children were given a large ram for a pet which once up-ended the visiting minister of Kirkcudbright. Rev Cannan taught boarders who found him a severe master, the tawse occupying a fair chunk of the curriculum. He also took it upon himself to urge his congregation to whitewash their cottages, a craze that continues to the present day. On Sundays the shepherds came from miles around "wearing their plaids through all the seasons - in summer to keep out the heat and winter to keep it in". Their dogs lay at their feet during the service, looking forward to the weekly fight when it was over. After a Sabbath walk, the children were permitted to read an illustrated Pilgrim’s Progress. Meal, milk and meat were abundant. Mrs Cannan was a dab hand at making large quantities of preserves from fruit in the manse garden but vegetables were dangerously scarce in winter and scurvy was common. Coal by the cartload from Dalmellington was cheap and peat was plentiful. Poor light was provided by home-made candles, made from sheep tallow and rushes. The family obviously felt superior to the inhabitants of Dalry where "the cottages were all thatched and were just a collection of hovels, there being only one slated roof among them". In one cothouse the chimney was in the middle of the floor, smoke escaping through a hole in the roof. The shepherds used stilts on occasion, as did the school master. Carsphairn obviously had a water problem then as now. Visits from the packman were long anticipated and enjoyed. They brought luxury items designed to appeal to women and hence their intentions were often supposedly suspected by their jealous husbands. There are many great stories about these peripatetic merchants who brought news to the outback and often music and song as well. Some were in the market for hair which well rewarded both donor and purchaser. Mary often visited relatives in the Glenkens. Her uncle rented The Shiel from Millar of Glenlee as it had been by Cannans since the reign of James VII. Her mother’s oldest sister had married Mr Barbour in Muirdrockwood. Aunty Bess and her husband were notorious skinflints but "though miserly in all her ways she was exceedingly kind to beggars". At age nine, suffering from typhus fever, Mary was sent to stay with another aunt, in the manse at Balmaclellan, to be shut up for many weeks in a small room by herself. The local herd boy lent her books "scarcely fitted for her tender years". It is a pity we are not told what the books were, shared by a herder and a nine year old lass! When visiting, her father, "to ‘Christopher North’ and many others in literary and academic circles. Like her father Mary was a Liberal in politics. While still in her early teens in 1832 she devised a banner "representing a tree with nests supported by bishops. The nests were rotten burghs and Lord John Russell and his party were trying to cut down the tree". As her memorialist noted "she always insisted on her rights as a citizeness". Her pupils included the two Brunel boys, grandsons of the engineer. While teaching in the Lake District she fell in love with the place, and found friends who organised a trip to Berlin for her. She learned German and made the acquaintance of the Brothers Grimm. After four years she moved to Rome surviving by writing articles for Chambers Encyclopedia. She travelled extensively in Italy, once being invited to a reception in honour of Frederick of Prussia the future Emperor of Germany. As she returned home the Crimean War broke out. Since her mother suffered the pains of age, they moved in together. Mary Cannan was inspired by her friend Mary Fletcher, widow of Archibald Fletcher, "a pure and firm patriot" and reformer, to move to Wordsworth country. Eventually, in 1879, she bought land at Easdale, Grasmere, and built a house named The Shieling. Another distinguished resident had been Sir John Richardson, from Dumfries, sonin-law of Mrs Fletcher whom he adored. He is known as a courageous Arctic explorer, distinguished physician and accomplished natural historian, inspirer and writer of Flora Boreali Americana. Wordsworth died in 1850, Mrs Fletcher in 1858, Richardson in 1865 and Mary Cannan in 1911. Mary claimed the best time in her life began when she became 60. Asked why she never married she answered that she believed unmarried people attained "a better level of happiness than married ones, although not climbing to the same heights, nor sinking to the same depths". She did not believe in ghosts because they always seem to appear dressed and "I cannot believe in the immortality of clothes". In writing this article I have ruthlessly plundered an obituary by RC, presumably a relative, in The Gallovidian, summer 1912, 84-91. Ted Cowan She rejoiced in "a free wild life" running about the Carsphairn hills. her joy", broke the sole window in the airless room with his fist. While staying with her mother’s uncle Macmillan at The Holm she read thirteen of Scott’s novels in a week while hiding under a four-poster bed. Surely she deserved some kind of medal! She often resided with her Kennedy grandparents at Knocknalling. Much of her knowledge of older times must have come from Granny Kennedy who told her of gentlemen so plastered after dinner as to be unfit to join the ladies who were expected to tolerate their drunkenness. By 1828 the Kennedys and several other local families, including the Cannans, had grown rich in the dark satanic cotton mills of Manchester and district. When Cotton was King, the Kings of Cotton were from the Glenkens, a truly remarkable story which we have touched on before. Mary concluded her school days at Kirkcudbright Academy, thereafter becoming a pupil-teacher in Edinburgh. As a governess she was pleased to meet Professor John Wilson, nom de plume, Glenkens Gazette page 24 WINDY RIG WIND FARM PROGRESS UPDATE In October the final milestone on the Windy Rig Wind Farm will be reached with power being exported to the grid for the first time. Advertisement We would like to sincerely thank local residents for their patience and understanding throughout the project. Local Road Improvements Work began on the remedial works required along the B729 in late September. It is planned that we will commence the repair works on the C35 from Monday 4 October. The works will take 5 days to complete from the site entrance to the junction with the B729 and during this time the road will be closed from 0900 – 1700 with limited local access. There will be priority access for any emergency vehicles. The works required have been agreed in advance with Dumfries & Galloway Council and they will approve the final works upon completion. Laydown Area At Carsphairn the remediation work on the laydown area will start in early October. The scope of the works was agreed during the planning of the laydown area and will see the area fenced off and new planting put in place to provide screening from the main road. Once again, we would like to thank local residents again for their patience during the delivery of the Windy Rig Wind Farm. For up to date information on project progress, visit www. statkraft.co.uk/windyrig Completed turbines at the Windy Rig Wind Farm WINDY STANDARD WIND FARM COMMUNITY UPDATE We are progressing with our plans to re-power Windy Standard Wind Farm. Impact Assessment Scoping Report to the Scottish Government Energy Consents Unit (ECU). This submission formally requests the initial views of key consultees on our proposals and this feedback will help to shape our final proposals. As an update, we recently submitted an Environmental We have also undertaken the majority of surveys on site and hope that we can have an in-person event in early November where we can display our plans and discuss them in further detail with the local Advertisement The 36 existing turbines on site will be removed and replaced with nine turbines, with a height of up to 200m to tip. community. We are very keen to continue our conversations ahead of then. All of the information can be viewed at www.windystandardwindfarm.co.uk. Please do get in touch by contacting communities@fredolsen.co.uk or by phoning 07435 763900. We really welcome your feedback, insight and opinions. Miles McConville, Project Manager, Windy Standard Wind Farm Glenkens Gazette page 25 GALLOWAY COMMUNITY TRANSPORT www.gallowaycommunitytransport.org email gct@catstrand.com phone 01644 420374 mobile 07841 512449 October - November 2021 GCT Ebikes Regular Services GK2 Glenkens-Castle Douglas GCT in partnership with Sustrans (Tesco) Wednesday Evenings Out (Registered Route) Return 19:00 Dalry (Underhill) 21:15 19:05 New Galloway 21:10 19:15 Mossdale 21:00 19:25 Laurieston 20:50 19:30 Townhead of Greenlaw 20:47 19:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 20:37 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:35 Booking not required Glenkens to Newton Stewart Tuesday Mornings Outward Pickups: Dalry (Underhill) 0930 New Galloway (Town Hall) 0935 CatStrand) 0937 To Merrick Leisure Centre and Aldi Return Pickup Newton Stewart (Aldi Car Park) 1130 Return fare £3.50 Advance booking required. Member Hire GCT has 16, 15, and 8 seater minibuses and a fully wheelchair accessible electric car available for hire by community organisations. For information about membership and terms and conditions of hire see the GCT website or phone 07841 512449. Thursdays at 10am CatStrand, New Galloway GCT Excursions NOW BOOKING Saturday 9 October Gardens of Excellence The Autumn Garden, Dawyck Botanic Garden Stobo, Peebles Pickups: 0900 Dalry (Underhill); 0910 New Galloway (CatStrand); 0940 Castle Douglas (British Legion, Market Hill); 1000 Kirkcudbright (Harbour Square Bus Stop) Fare £10 Saturday 16 October Creative Crafts Show Crafts for Christmas SECC, Glasgow Pickups: 0800 Kirkcudbright (Harbour Square Bus Stop); 0825 Castle Douglas (British Legion, Market Hill); 0900 New Galloway (CatStrand); 0910 Dalry (Underhill);0925 Carsphairn (Shop) Fare £10 Glenkens Gazette The Community Kindness Cupboard outside Dalry Library has home baking in every Thursday. page 26 WHERE TO LOOK FOR LOCAL JOB LISTINGS Dumfries & Galloway! What's Going on @DGWGO on Facebook; What's Going On Glenkens @WGOGlenkens on Facebook; Glenkens Gazette @GlenkensNews on Facebook – once on the page for any of these, use the search function to look for jobs. The Glenkens' largest employer, Natural Power Consultants Ltd, also have a jobs page - www.naturalpower.com/uk/careers KEY GLENKENS CONTACTS LOCAL DOCTORS’ SURGERY 01556 670 691 Glenkens Medical Practice - 01644 420 234 COMMUNITY CONTACTS • Dalry: Graham West - 01644 430 503 • Balmaclellan: Martin Warnock 07939 261 391 • New Galloway: Helen Keron 07741 656 601 • Carsphairn: Liz Holmes - 07718 358 160 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 • Corsock: Julie Garton - 07769 647 702 • Kirkpatrick Durham: Heather 07551 639 629 • Crossmichael: Richard Middleton - • Mossdale: Shop - 01644 450 281 FOOD DELIVERIES • Galloway Foodbank - 07730 788 335 • Ballards Butchers - 01556 502502 (they also deliver groceries) • Grierson’s Butchers: 01556 502 637 • Henderson’s Butchers: 01556 502 654 • Mitchell’s Greengrocers: 01556 502 077 • Fleet Fish: order before 9pm Sunday evening for delivery the following week. Delivery days can be found when ordering at www. fleet-fish.co.uk or call 07966 103 912 • Roan’s Dairy - 01556 620 374 LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Glenkens Community Shop: Contact Liz Lewis on 07530 804 217 or drop by the shop on Main Street, Dalry Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact Ros Hill at ros.hill@rathanhouse.co.uk Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett at garyblissett51@gmail.com or 01644 430 521 Dalry Town Hall: Contact Jim Reid on 07776 034 260 or jamescreid@hotmail.co.uk Glenkens Community Centre: Contact Carylann Williamson at williamsoncarylann@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact Helen Keron on 07741 656601 or ngce5000@gmail.com or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins at julia.higgins55@outlook.com CatStrand: Contact Chris Jowsey at chris@catstrand.com 01644 420 374 or pop in to the CatStrand Schools: Visit the school office or call Dalry Primary on 01644 430 105 (for Nursery/ELC too), Dalry Secondary on 01644 430 259 or Kells on 01644 420 340 Carsphairn Heritage Group: carsphairnheritagegroup@ gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie at mcnabb.laurie@dumgal.gov.uk If you would like to add your community organisation to this list please get in touch with the Gazette - contact details are on the back page. CHURCH TIMES CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sunday Services Balmaclellan: 11am - 3 Oct & 7 Nov. Carsphairn: 11am - 10 Oct. Kells: 11am - 17 Oct, 31 Oct & 21 Nov. Dalry: 11am - 24 Oct & 28 Nov. Communion: 24 Oct, 11am, Dalry Church. Remembrance Services: 14 Nov - 10.30am, Carsphairn Church; 10.55am, New Galloway War Memorial – act of remembrance, followed probably by service is St Margaret’s Church; 10.55am, Balmaclellan War Memorial – short act of remembrance; 12 noon, Dalry Church. Local Church of Scotland congregations can be accessed on youtube under ‘Balmaclellan, Kells and Dalry linked with Carsphairn’. These can also be emailed - contact DBartholomew@churchofscotland.org. uk and paper copies can be provided to those who do not have internet access. Contact David on 01644 430 380 for these resources, or simply for a chat. SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: Communal worship at St Margaret's Church, New Galloway, takes place every Sunday with a Sung Eucharist at 10.30am (following current COVID guidelines) and this is followed by coffees/teas. Visitors are always welcome. For further information, including directions, please see our website www.stmargaretsnewgalloway. org or call our Vestry Secretary, Christine Rankin, on 01644 420259. Dalry Library & Customer Service Centre Tuesdays 10.30am-2pm Fridays 11am-4.30pm For further information contact Castle Douglas library on 01556 502 643 USEFUL NUMBERS: ● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000 ● Police, non-emergency: 101 ● Doctor: 01644 420 234 ● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24 ● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000 Glenkens Gazette page 27 Dear Editor, I picked up a copy of the Gazette yesterday (I do not seem to always come across one). I feel compelled to commend you on the level at which the publication continues. As someone with an interest in housing, your centre spread was of particular note at highlighting the numerous issues that exist. I picked up my copy in Carsphairn tearoom while buying a coffee before joining Jonathan’s walk to Polmaddy – I can commend that to anyone interested in local history. A real ‘eyeopener’! Best wishes, Iain DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY LOVES LOCAL GIFT CARD Wouldn’t it be great if more money was spent locally in Dumfries and Galloway? The Dumfries & Galloway Scotland Loves Local Gift Card does exactly that. It’s a gift card that can only be spent in businesses registered in Dumfries and Galloway. We don’t want any businesses in Dumfries and Galloway to miss out, so whether you are a shop, a cafe, a hairdresser or visitor attraction we would urge you to sign up. It works like any other Mastercard gift card and there is no cost for the business - visit www.lovelocal.scot/giftcard to sign up - it only takes 5 minutes. Dumfries and Galloway were the first local authourity to sign up for the gift card, so let’s make sure you can spend your gift card everywhere in the region from Langholm to Portpatrick! If you have any questions then drop an email to john.king@dumgal.gov.uk ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE (price per issue incl VAT) General Medical & Dispensing Services SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 Kindling available Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 Glenkens Gazette page 28 Christmas Arts & Crafts Fair August saw Dalry Town Hall hosting a brand new Arts & Crafts Fair. This was seen as an opportunity to showcase several creative makers, artists and designers in Dumfries & Galloway and the South of Scotland. Luckily the weather was on our side and it proved to be very successful with visitors taking the their first tentative post-COVID steps across the threshold to enjoy and experience lots of new and innovative exhibits. It was an opportunity for artists and designers to network and make new contacts for future sales and commissions. The working life of creative individuals can be a solitary one, producing masterpieces from the confines of their home studios, even selling online is no substitute for interacting with customers face-to-face whilst guiding them towards making an informed choice. There were two marquees, one housing the overspill of stalls for exhibitors whilst the second became the refreshment tent, serving delicious home-baked cakes, teas and coffees. All the baking was provided by an enthusiastic band of volunteer bakers and the cafe was also manned by dedicated volunteers. I wish to extend my personal thanks to every individual who helps out at these events - they just would not happen without you. There was a diverse range of products on offer including ceramics, silver jewellery, quirky metal sculptures, textiles, woodcarvers' and artists' exhibits, glass and housewares and more - the list of exhibitors is too numerous to mention everyone here, but for those of you who are able, you can visit the Arts & Crafts Fair Facebook page @AandCDalryTown Hall to watch videos of the crafters setting up and displaying their beautiful wares. The Dalry town hall website has also got information about exhibitors - www. dalrytownhall.co.uk We had an amazing amount of positive feedback after the event, so it has been decided to host another fair on Sunday 28 November from 11am until 3pm. This is an opportunity for those of you that didn't make it last time - or those that did and would like another chance to browse our wonderful local arts and crafts people's creations - to enjoy some Christmas shopping in a unique environment. What better way to shop local and support our wealth of amazingly talented artists and makers? There will also be festive refreshments available from our outdoor heated marquee. Come along and get into the Christmas spirit! Lesley Blissett Pictured are some of the creations on offer at the August fair. THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE Family and friends coming to stay? Short of space? Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm Sat 2-2.30 pm DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY  Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 01556 502263  VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS www.covenanters-holidaycottagescotland.co.uk WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Design & co-ordination: sarah.ade@gmail.com DEC/JAN COPY DEADLINE: 5 NOV The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No. SC032050  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 126 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_126 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource GCAT Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2021 Description An account of the resource Editor: Sarah Ade