13 10 430 https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/267/GlenkensGazette120.pdf 2dc73c008c15e6bfe7109f4c1afbf0e4 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 120 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 2020 ISSUE 120 FREE Glenkens Food Month Success At the time of going to press, Glenkens Food Month was only halfway through, but already its mix of online and in-person events has proved very popular, with most sold out and lots of positive feedback received. The theme of ‘Shop Local, Eat Local’ has been very strong this year – always an important message, but it feels even more critical in this time of COVID-19 recovery. Our local food and drink producers and retailers were crucial in supporting us throughout the lockdown, and we all need to keep on supporting them now. The Food Month looked quite different this year from last year, of course, but there have been some real upsides to that, as well as the sadness of not being able to meet as a full community yet. Our online events meant that people with a soft spot for the Glenkens who don’t live here could join in the fun, as well as locals who were able to join in from the comfort of their own home. The online cooking demonstrations with chef Tony Budde were particularly popular – well done to all the local guest chefs! And Glenkens Farmers Market, home of the new Glenkens Food Hub. the distanced in-person events like the Fungi Forage, Farm Tours and Pizza in the Park were very well received by all who attended. It was great to partner with CatStrand for the re-start of their events programme in New Galloway park – so good to see live acts again. There really has been something for everyone, from biscuit-bake-alongs to puppet shows to bingo. We’ve already had some lucky prizewinners who won vouchers for our local shops by shopping and eating locally – but really, we’re all winners when we shop local. Using our purchasing power to keep jobs in our communities makes a massive difference. And eating ultra-low mileage fruit, veg and meat is good for our health and the environment! One legacy from the Glenkens Food Month 2020 will be the ongoing Glenkens Food Hub. This online shop allows you to buy from a whole range of Glenkens producers and pick up your bounty from the Glenkens Farmers Market at Dalry Town Hall on the second Saturday of each month. See the ad on p3 for more details; a fantastic way to combine hyper-local seasonal shopping with top convenience. Continued on p4... ‘The Games’ Featured on Secret Scotland Like many other events this year, The Scottish Alternative Games didn’t take place but the show will still go on – in a fashion! The Games will be featured on Channel 5’s popular show, Secret Scotland, presented by Susan Calman. Susan visited New Galloway with a film crew in July and filmed a piece for the Dumfries & Galloway episode which will air on Friday 9 October at 8pm on Channel 5. Susan Calman gearing up for her first gird ‘n’ cleek lesson from current World Champion, Arthur Harfield. A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 REMEMBERING EDDIE YATES Eddie Yates, an active member of the community in Parton, died in August after a short illness. Sad news for our small community, which has lost a number of good neighbours and friends in the last year. Eddie was well known for his drive and his commitment to village life, including an eleven-year stint as the Chair of Parton Community Council, which he helped found after serving for a number of years on the Parton, Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham Community Council. He also took a great interest in the village hall and played an active role in its management and upkeep, most notably after the significant flood damage caused by Storm Peter in late 2015. Eddie and his wife Gill first met at the ages of 10 and nine at a small school in Cheshire. Their paths crossed again some years later while Gill was nursing in Shropshire and Eddie was doing his national service; they both happened to be on the same train home to visit family and ‘that was that’ says Gill. They married two years later and settled in Sandbach, having their three children there. Fast forward to 1978 and a family friend recommended visiting Kilquhanity School with their daughter Rachel’s secondary education in mind; due to the happy coincidence of Parton Holiday Park being fully booked, they were directed instead to a caravan stay with George and Doreen Prentice, which was the start of a lifelong friendship. Rachel enjoyed school and Eddie and Gill loved the friendliness of the people along with the area’s natural beauty; and so in 1979 they bought ‘Clocktower’, the distinctive former laundry in Parton. While Gill worked as a physiotherapist at Castle Douglas hospital, Eddie commuted for a number of years between Parton and Sandbach, where his business was based. Eddie was a keen sports enthusiast, playing rugby to County standard (captaining Sandbach, where he was commemorated as ‘the original superstar player of his day’) and then later, golf; playing at Colvend and captaining New Galloway. His company specialised in sports grounds maintenance, including golf courses and first division football grounds. After selling the business, Eddie capitalised on another of his great loves, gardening, and propagated rhododendrons for a while; he then managed the development of four houses on the lochside at Parton, one of which went on to become his home; and finally went on to join Scottish Enterprise, providing advice and support to local small businesses which Eddie enjoyed doing until he retired. Eddie with his one and only brown trout caught on Loch Ken In his later years, despite a couple of hip replacements, Eddie’s energy remained undimmed - he could regularly be seen keeping fit on walks around the village, cutting a determined figure with his Leki sticks. He remained active in community life right up until his death and even now, much needed repair work is going on in Parton village hall, originally initiated by him. He has left a legacy in the village – of homes, a well maintained hall, the Community Council and the beautiful Parton Heritage Trail. He will be much missed. Suzy Mercer Wright’s Shop & Post Office ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY SCANNING Dairy & Sucklers; Ageing, Twin & Barren Detection. Friday grocery delivery and daily paper round now available within Dalry - please phone to enquire. Trailer system includes triplets, marking and shedding. stocking a range of local suppliers • Express Bakery bread • • Irvings biscuits & cakes • • Ballards & Dalmellington Country Butchers meat & pies • • Mitchells fruit & veg • Pregnancy and number of pups. For bookings and info: Duncan Kennedy 07860 474001 dk@passcan.co.uk www.passcan.co.uk 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 3 OUR COMMUNITIES IN LOCKDOWN As we head towards winter, and lockdown measures begin to tighten once again, our Glenkens communities would like to ensure that nobody feels like they are alone at what may for many be a very difficult few months. The future is uncertain. We do not know how we will be affected by Government measures and lockdown rules. If you feel vulnerable or are required to shield, remember our communities have a robust safety net in place to support those in need. If you need help with accessing prescriptions, food shopping or just feel you would like to speak to someone, there is someone in your community you can get in touch with. In the special May edition of the Glenkens Gazette there was a pull-out of community contacts, starting on p7. This is available online at www. glenkensgazette.co.uk (click on the May 2020 edition in the menu bar on the right of the page, then click on the image of the front cover) and has contact details for each of the Glenkens and wider district community councils and other useful contact information. If you don’t have online access, below is a key contact for each community for those who may need it. Stay safe and remember - you are not alone. Winter in Scotland can be tough at the best of times, so if you are feeling the pressure at this difficult time, please don’t be a stranger. The Communities of the Glenkens KEY GLENKENS CONTACTS Local Doctors’ Surgery Food Deliveries Glenkens Medical Practice - 01644 420 234 • Galloway Foodbank - 07730 788 335 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: Will Adam - 01644 430 338 • Mossdale: Shop - 01644 450 281 • New Galloway: Sam Rushton 07741 656 601 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 • 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 STAFF WANTED Café at Clatteringshaws is recruiting! We are open all year round, 7 days a week, from 11am to 4pm in the winter and 10am to 5pm from Easter to September. We are looking for someone either full-time or part-time to complement our existing team To apply email your details to karen@portlogan.scot Glenkens Gazette page 4 Fun With Food in the Glenkens Continued from front page... The Glenkens Food Month is organised and run by New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE), and the Board of NGCE would like to say thanks so much to Sam Rushton, our Community Engagement Worker. Each year she goes above and beyond to put these events on for the communities of the Glenkens, and it wouldn’t happen without her. This year, Sam has also been ably supported by Abi Mordin from Propagate and the Hidden Veg market garden in Balmaclellan, who has been the driving force behind the Food Hub and many of the sustainable food events. We’d also like to say thank you to all the community groups, local businesses and individuals who have given up their time to support so many of the events. It was fantastic in particular to see the Make, Bake and Glut tables across all the communities – what a lot of talented growers and chefs we have! The Food Month is a truly Glenkens-wide event, and that makes us stronger. Last but not least, funding for the Food Month was granted from the Blackcraig Wind Farm Community Fund with funding from Blackcraig Wind Farm (Scotland) Limited, administered by Foundation Scotland working in partnership with The Glenkens & District Trust, and the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership Scheme. Thanks so much to those organisations for their support, it is very much appreciated. Helen Keron, Treasurer, NGCE Photographs (taken by Ian Biggar Photography, Sam Rushton of NGCE and Liz Holmes), anti-clockwise from top: Food Month Bingo - Jenna enjoys a cup of tea whilst playing via Zoom. Carsphairn’s impressive local produce stall. Walkers earning their cake on the new Pilgrims Way path near Carsphairn. Dalry Secondary pupils getting ready to take part in the Food Month Challenge (see p11). ‘A Play and a Piece’ - live theatre with CatStrand. New Scheme Will Cut New Home Heating Costs Galloway A successful coGolf Club operative scheme for buying domestic heating oil at reduced prices is being expanded to serve everyone in the Glenkens. The New Galloway & Kells oilbuying co-operative has been running for two years and has some 70 members. Over the last 12 months the organisers, New Galloway Community Enterprises Ltd (NGCE), have secured an average saving for members of 3.5 pence per litre. That means a saving of £17.50 on a 500 litre order. The scheme also benefits the local environment by reducing the number of tanker deliveries in the area. Now, thanks to funding from Dumfries & Galloway Council’s Region-Wide Communities Fund, NGCE will be expanding this service into the other communities of the Glenkens. Applications are being invited for the post of coordinator, who will set up and run the expanded scheme. This is a two-year part-time post. For further details see the job advert to the left or visit www. newgallowaycommunity.shop/jobvacancies New Galloway Golf Club has fared well throughout the lockdown period and on into the various phases of the present situation. The club was more than happy to see families from the local community using the course for their daily exercise during the lockdown period. Since golf was allowed to be played again the club has been busy and has had several new members from around the local area. Should anyone wish to try the game in order to keep up with their exercise, please contact the club and we will arrange for this. Now that we are able to allow visitors onto the course we are also busy. Hopefully those who have come to play our beautiful course will return over the years and provide some much needed income to businesses in the area. Ian Brown Glenkens Gazette page 5 Publication of Glenkens & District Community Action Plan The Glenkens & District Trust is delighted to announce the publication of the Glenkens and District Research Report and Community Action Plan, which is the culmination of community aspiration, consultation and discussion going back to 2017. The aim of producing the plan was to articulate our shared local priorities and common goals for the future in order to create a clear path for action. The full Research Report and Action Plan as well as a standalone summary of the Community Action Plan can be found on the Foundation Scotland Blackcraig Fund web page. GDT commissioned the Research Report and Community Action Plan from Community Enterprise, who have a great deal of experience in this type of work in urban and rural communities, right across Scotland. They carried out extensive community Death Notice Helen Mary Middleton of Holm Mill, Dalry, peacefully passed away on Friday 31st July 2020 at Castle Douglas Cottage Hospital. Much loved sister, sister-in-law, auntie, great-auntie and friend. Helen was interred at St Cuthbert’s Cemetery, Kirkcudbright, on Wednesday 12th August 2020. Due to present circumstances the funeral was private. engagement and, based on this, the overall goal of the plan is that the Glenkens and district will be a connected, resilient and carbon neutral place, where people will want to live, work and visit, to bring up their families, and to grow old. It will be somewhere that other places in Scotland will look to for inspiration. The Community Action Plan (CAP) outlines proposals that aim to make that goal a reality. Four clear themes emerged from the community consultation: • A clear desire for there to be more effective collaboration and communication across the community and for people and groups to be better connected to enable them to work collaboratively rather than in competition • A recognition that plans should be developed to ensure we have assets and services across the community that meet our needs in the long term • A need to ensure an economically flourishing community • An objective to be a carbon neutral community The CAP sets out proposals to achieve these and we will now move into a ‘set up’ phase to both kickstart delivery of the Action Plan but also incorporate the COVID-19 experience and ‘new normal’ in which we find ourselves. For this set up phase, we are forming a Community Action Plan Steering Group, made up of GDT Trustees and other people drawn from across the wider community; and to support this group we have also gone through an open tendering process for external support, paid for using windfarm monies. This paid-for support will help us get these three key things done over the next six months: an analysis of the CAP community priorities, to identify who and how we might take these forward and where the gaps might be. Where local groups are identified who can deliver well on community priorities in the short term, GDT intends to progress this work directly as funding allows. Secondly, we want to undertake some COVID-19 resilience learning and ensure the Action Plan reflects and incorporates this. Third, we want to hold a Glenkens Summit early next year to have a community conversation about what taking forward the delivery of the Action Plan priorities looks like. At the end of this ‘set up phase’ an updated implementation plan will be published and a clearer path to getting action on priorities will lie before us. After considerable thought and discussion, we decided to pause funding applications and the next round of open applications to the Main Fund will now take place early next year. We decided a cautious approach to allocating funding at this uncertain time was necessary as noone can foresee with any certainty how this current crisis will unfold over the winter months, and we wish to ensure we have monies available if they are needed to respond to urgent community needs. The work we are currently taking forward will enable us to understand this better and to make the most effective use of the monies going forward. However, funds will continue to be available to organisations who need them as set out in our Fund Strategy, which says that ‘there may be cases where an emergency situation arises that affects the community – or parts of it - and which GDT wishes to respond to. This may result in GDT choosing to provide some assistance by way of a grant or donation to a group with urgent and critical needs and/or to intermediaries with the infrastructure to provide the support. Such instances will be dealt with on a case by case basis and where no other provision or immediate support is available.’ If you become aware of organisations in need in your area, please direct them to contact Foundation Scotland in the first instance on office@foundationscotland.org.uk Fiona Smith, Chairman, GDT Glenkens Gazette page 6 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 Storage Tank, has contained Kerosene and is empty, 120cmH x 130cmW x 230cmL, used up until the beginning of lockdown. Contact: 01644 430 373. Free: horse manure (including some chicken), rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 WANTED Corby Trouser Press, good condition, full working order, collection only. Contact: 07925 914 681. Hi Sarah, Old Singer sewing machine, treadle or hand operated. Must be in working order and with shuttles please. Contact: 07889 229 340 Old lawn mowers/strimmers/ other small machinery. Nonrunners/broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 We sold the bath lift on the day the Gazette was distributed - we had two phone calls straight away! Zanussi Oven with ceramic hob, everything works but facia is tatty, collection only. Contact: 07925 914 681. Many thanks, Jennifer 2400 Titan Oil Central Heating Photo of the Issue Sponsored by the Ken Bridge Hotel This issue’s winner is Neil Blacklock with his shot Magical New Galloway, looking down over the village eerily wreathed in mist. Neil wins an evening meal for two up to the value of £30 at the Ken Bridge Hotel. Competition judges Dave and Sue said: “What a wonderful group of pictures, so difficult to choose a winner for this issue. Because we have never seen the view of the Glen shrouded in mist from the top of the West Port, and we love the way that the Town Hall is framed in the picture, we have chosen Magical New Galloway.” How to Enter: any photos taken in the Glenkens can be entered - landscapes, wildlife, portraits, action shots... Email them to glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk If you are a winner, the Gazette will send you out a voucher - please call the Ken Bridge to check opening times in light of current COVID-19 guidelines. 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 7 sponsored by Red Squirrels in the Glenkens Red squirrels seem to be thriving in the Glenkens, which is a wonderful thing to see. Gazette reader Robin Hood sent in a photo of two young squirrels feeding at his bird table. Robin would like to thank people for slowing down now that there are signs up along the road by his house letting people know there are red squirrels in the woods there. He says: “The ‘slow down - squirrels’ signs either side of our home has really had an impact. This really helps this year’s three kits as they cross daily; I have a food station in the woods opposite the house but it’s never enough, and they keep crossing to get the bird nuts on the house side.” Debra Hall has also been lucky enough to have squirrel kits as regulars in her garden. Below, Debra gives readers some tips on how to care for any red squirrel visitors you may have. FEEDING RED SQUIRRELS Although squirrels come to people’s gardens to look for materials such as moss for nest lining or to drink from the garden pond, the biggest attraction is food. What Food Should I Provide? It is best to feed a variety of different foods to squirrels, similar to those that the squirrel might forage for in the wild. The red squirrel will pillage nuts and seeds found naturally in your garden. The most suitable foods for red squirrels are hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, beech (cob) nuts and pine nuts. Sweet chestnuts and walnuts are also suitable. Unsalted peanuts are another favourite, but should be not be given in isolation. Young red squirrels can suffer from calcium deficiency if they feed too often on the wrong sort of food. Therefore, peanuts should not be given exclusively, but as part of a varied diet. To reduce calcium deficiency, provide pieces of apple or carrot; a supplement added to the feed or a dish of drinking water; bone meal added to the dry feed mix; a cuttlefish bone or antler placed Top left: squirrel kits eating from the table in Robin Hood’s garden. Top right: a young kit competing with a woodpecker for nuts in Debra Hall’s garden. Above left: a squirrel ‘nutting’ for hazels in the woods © Phillip Day. Above right: Two young squirrels enjoying peanuts in Debra’s garden in winter. near the feeder. This is particularly valuable during the summer for juvenile and female squirrels. Also provide a source of water if it is not naturally available. Grey squirrels love maize and mixed squirrel food. Therefore, to discourage them, don’t provide these foods. Some squirrels also like oats. Please note that red squirrels don’t usually like maize (sweet corn). Regular feeding every few days is best rather than having food permanently available, as this will encourage the squirrels to forage for natural food too. This way, you are providing a supplementary food source rather than the only source of food and you will not encourage them into bad habits. Feed throughout the year. In the wild, red squirrels feed on shoots and flowers in spring, and nuts and fruits in autumn and winter. The critical period to feed reds is during the summer months before the fruits and nuts are ripe, when their natural food is in short supply. Continued feeding throughout the winter will also provide an additional boost to the squirrels in your area. (This information is summarised from www.northernredsquirrels. org.uk) Glenkens Gazette page 8 CAFE AT CLATTERINGSHAWS CELEBRATES 1ST ANNIVERSARY Little did Karen and Martin Donaldson know when they took on the tenancy of Clatteringshaws café and visitor centre last autumn from Forestry and Land Scotland that they would have it interrupted by a global pandemic! Café managers Karen and Martin opened their doors on 7 October 2019 and what a year it’s been. Martin says: “First of all, I would like to wish all of our wonderful, dedicated team a very happy first anniversary! Without you we wouldn’t have made it here. “We were closed for four months but managed to re-open once it was safe to do so, in mid-July. Karen and I both work in the café alongside eight other full and part-time colleagues. With all the extra legislation and cleaning required to keep staff and customers safe, we had to recruit additional staff and now also need to recruit another full or part-time person to join our team. “Last October when we opened the café we decided to open every day (excluding Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day) and that hasn’t changed. With many cafés in Dumfries & Galloway closing in the winter we decided that this gave us an ideal opportunity to offer an out-of-season facility for locals, visitors and year-round employment for our staff.” Café at Clatteringshaws is in such an amazing location, with stunning views over Clatteringshaws Loch with the forest and hills beyond. This striking location was what inspired Karen and Martin to take on the tenancy of the café last year; having been frequent visitors to the area ROWAN HOLIDAY COTTAGE Café at Clatteringshaws is open all year round, promising a warm welcome whatever the weather. for over 25 years, they had decided that they wanted to relocate to Galloway and so when the opportunity of running the venue presented itself, it was a chance too good to miss. Karen and Martin aren’t strangers to the hospitality industry. Karen and her daughter Carrie run Tootsies Ice Cream and Coffee Shops in Lancashire. Tootsies manufactures its own award-winning ice cream in their dairy in Garstang, Preston. Karen says: “Martin and I own a cute little ice cream and coffee pod which is sited in Port Logan, where we live, and the plan was to purchase a second pod and bring it to the café but, thanks to COVID-19 cutting our first season very short, we couldn’t justify the expense this year. Next season we intend selling our own brand ice cream at the cafe and, subject to planning consent, we will hopefully have a second pod trading from the coach parking area at Clatteringshaws.” So what does Café at Clatteringshaws offer? The good news is that afternoon THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm Sat 2-2.30 pm DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm 4 Star Rated - Sleeps Six Dog friendly - Private Parking Secluded Garden An ideal base for exploring Galloway... 07503 958 710 FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY  01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS  teas are making a comeback from October. These proved to be a huge hit prior to lockdown, especially with people buying vouchers to give as gifts. Karen says: “We are very lucky to have two exceptional bakers working with us who produce all the homemade scones, cakes, tray bakes and shortbread on site every day.” Also available at the café, especially good to know as the festive season approaches, are local crafts and art work. Café at Clatteringshaws currently stocks the work of over 20 local craftspeople, potters, artists and photographers. “We were hoping to install a book exchange in the café, but had to shelve the idea due to the COVID-19 situation - hopefully this is something we can look at in the coming months.” Whatever happens going forward, Café Clatteringshaws ensures a warm welcome, delicious homemade goodies and a decent cup of coffee. So ‘Haste Ye Back’! Glenkens Gazette page 9 CatStrand Highlights After a successful weekend of live events in the park, CatStrand is gearing up for the return of some small-scale indoor arts programming from October. Our initial programme will be made up of professional artists and performers from within Dumfries & Galloway. Hope London, jazz pianist and singer, and Adam Blake, blues guitarist, are lined up as our first live acts with performances planned during October. However, with the latest guidance from the Scottish Government, we will be reviewing these events in line with the Phase 4 review on 5 October so please check our website www. catstrand.com for the latest information on booking and events. If we’re not able to welcome you to events in person to CatStrand, we do have a confirmed programme of online events planned for October and November including Scottish Dance Theatre’s digital event Introducing… Antigone, Interrupted on Thursday 15 October. This is a unique online event combining footage from the original stage production, scenes reimagined for the digital medium and real time meet-the-artist conversation. The event will give audiences an opportunity to ‘meet the characters’ and hear from choreographer Joan Clevillé and dancer Solène Weinachter. Performance elements will be weaved with discussion and opportunities to delve into various topics such as the creation of Antigone, Interrupted, the relevance of a classic story in our contemporary reality, and the role of the arts in our communities. This event will be accessible from your Scottish Dance Theatre’s Antigone, Interrupted © Maria Falconer home through our online event platform – look out for ticket Campbell, is open until mid-October booking opening up for this shortly on the when our visual arts intern programmed CatStrand website. Unrestricted print exhibition will take For families we have our brand new its place until the 22 November. Both series of interactive online Pocket exhibitions are accessible during our Theatre performances, the first of which building opening hours - currently comes to you from Dundee-based, awardThursday to Sunday- as well as online winning dance theatre company Shaper through our virtual gallery on the website. Caper. Moon Capers by Thomas Small We hope to be able to welcome you to is an interactive online event suitable for CatStrand for some live events over the ages 4+ and their grown-ups and will be next few months - and hope that you’ll online to view from Thursday 22 October enjoy our online and remote access events at 4pm. from home. The CatStrand Team Our latest exhibition in the Pyramid Gallery, Sky Meditations from Edward CatStrand Youth Arts We’re very happy to be gradually reopening our activities at CatStrand Youth and have some great plans for October. There will be a series of free workshops for ages 11+ with artist Rory Laycock looking at how the digital and art can mix. This includes 3D printing, social media filters and projecting images onto objects; all to help us build a youth art installation which explores Gen Z and digital technologies. The installation will run from 18–25 October in our auditorium. We have also put an open call out for printmakers to submit a piece to our upcoming exhibition entitled ‘Unrestricted’ which will run from 18 October to 22 November and will introduce young people to various types of printmaking. As ever, visit our facebook and Instagram pages for the latest updates @catstrandyouth At the time of writing, it is my last week at CatStrand. I’ve absolutely loved my time here and will miss the buzz of the venue, the community and especially the young people I’ve worked with who are so creative, welcoming and enthusiastic. I leave you in the capable hands of our new YAC, Jamie, who is very excited to be joining the team and helping you all continue to create. Katy Billington, Youth Arts Coordinator Hello everyone! My name is Jamie Lee and I’m the new youth arts coordinator for GCAT over at Catstrand. I’m a freelance drama facilitator with experience leading community arts in communities all over Scotland. I hail from Glasgow originally but don’t hold that against me! I’m really looking forward to getting to know everyone! Jamie Lee, new Youth Arts Coordinator Glenkens Gazette page 10 Hello from the Genkens Primary Schools It is so good to be back at school; plans were drawn up for ‘blended learning’ from August but thankfully, in the end, we were able to open fully. We missed seeing the children every day and hearing about what was going on in their lives. They have grown so much... Like everyone else during lockdown, we found the juggling of work, the internet and technology a nightmare. Sharing one device between three or four people is difficult to do when everyone needs it all the time. Anyway, in August we reopened. Following the new rules and ensuring risk assessments were adhered to seemed daunting. However, the children have really helped due to their positive outlook and eagerness to be back in a routine. Using soap and water or hand gel at every turn has become second nature. I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank our wonderful parents who have been very supportive throughout the pandemic. We have challenges ahead. I am hoping the current direction of travel in terms of restricting the spread of the virus does not lead to closing of schools and that mitigation strategies put in place by the government work. On a much smaller scale, we have many calendar challenges to face in the next few months. How do we do Christmas plays, Christmas fayres and such things? Could technology be the key? If anyone has any ideas, we’d love for you to share them with us - drop us an email at gw17officedalryps@ea.dumgal.sch. uk or call 01644 430 105. Paul Scrimshaw, Head Teacher, Glenkens Primary Cluster Reading for Fun at Kells Primary Now that we are back at school, we have all chosen books from the library and are enjoying reading every day. “I like reading because sometimes I find good ideas which I use when I am writing stories!” said Alex. “Reading is fun!” said Rosie. The children have enjoyed reading about real people in history. “The best book I have read recently was about Spartacus!” said Noah, while Rosie Erupting Volcanoes The Dalry P3-5 class wanted to learn about natural disasters this term. We made volcano models from clay, leaving space in the cone for a small container. Once the volcanoes were dry we poured vinegar, washing up liquid and food colouring into the container in the cone. We then carefully added some baking soda. The vinegar, which is an acid, and the baking soda, which is a base, combined and reacted with each other. The result was an erupting volcano. The washing up liquid made extra bubbles. We had great fun making our volcanoes erupt over and over again. Dalry Primary 3,4,5 class is reading a book about Mary, Queen of Scots. “I am enjoying reading a book about Al Capone, a gangster in Chicago,” said Jake. Our new Primary 1 pupils are also enjoying their Buddies in Primary 7 reading stories to them on a Tuesday morning. Elliot says he likes hearing stories and looking at the pictures. Adrian, pictured here with Alex and Sam, can be seen enoying his favourite book, Dinosaurumpus. Margaret Heuchan, Principal Teacher Settling in to School Dalry School’s Primary 1 and 2 pupils have been very busy since the start of term. They have been practising listening and manners and getting used to all the new routines. They have been learning lots through playing with all the toys and activities, including beginning to learn and revise different letter sounds and different ways to use numbers! The class topic is ‘People who help us’ and they have been learning about all the different jobs there are to help others while playing in a vets and a police station. Class teacher Miss Sey would like to tell all of the boys and girls in P1/2, “Well done for working so hard and trying your best!”. Glenkens Gazette page 11 A Brand New Traversing Wall When pupils headed back to Dalry School after lockdown, they were met with lots of fun new things to do in the school playing field. As well as the new climbing frame featured in the last edition of the Gazette there is now also a climbing wall. This excellent piece of equipment is a wall where children can choose a colour of hold and challenge themselves to ‘traverse’ - or move along rather than up - the wall in a circuit, offering both mental and physical stimulation. Funding for this strucutre was organised by Friends of Dalry School, with donations from Natural Power Consultants Ltd and Glenkens Community Shop, to whom we are very grateful. A huge ‘thank you’ also goes to Nick and Gwyn Pugh who designed and built the climbing wall for a fraction of the cost of a commercial installation; Dalry School what an achievement! THE FOOD MONTH CHALLENGE Dalry Secondary’s Food Month Challenge, set by the Glenkens Food Month team, was taken up with gusto by S3 pupils who had a fantastic afternoon whipping up some tremendous culinary creations. Pupils made a wide variety of dishes including spaghetti bolognese (lamb) served with a side salad; crispy lamb noodles; lamb tacos served with a Greek dip and salad; lamb wraps served with potato wedges, salad and a mocktale; lamb macaroni bake served with a side salad. Mrs Acheson and I had the pleasure of sampling these tasty dishes, and I can honestly say that they were all delicious (this is not always the case) so it made it a difficult decision. The students based their votes on the appearance of the food which we took into account along with the taste. The winner of the challenge was Isobel Stevenson who made the lamb tacos. Some comments from pupils about their experience are: “It was a very fun experience and I really enjoyed it. I now understand the pressure that real chefs go through in the kitchen,“ and “I’ve had an insight into my future, so I’m glad I’ve had a go at independent cooking.” Suzy Andrew, Art & HE Teacher Glenkens Gazette page 12 GUIDING IN THE GLENKENS NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT There have been Brownie and Guide Units in the Glenkens since 1920, with many former Brownies, Guides and Rangers still living locally. Sadly, over the past few years numbers have been decreasing and we currently have no girls attending Brownies and only a handful of Guides. To make these units remain viable, and to benefit girls in the Glenkens, we need more Rainbows (age five to seven years), Brownies (age seven to 10 years), Guides (age 10 to 14 years), and Rangers (age 14 to 18 years). We are also desperately in need of new leaders to take Guiding in the Glenkens forward into 2021 and beyond. We would love to hear from anyone interested in any aspect of volunteering, and also from young people who would like to be part of Girlguiding Scotland within the Glenkens. To find out more about volunteering, or about what activities can be enjoyed within Girlguiding, please visit www.girlguidingscotland.org.uk and look for ‘Join Us’ or ‘Volunteering’. You can also contact our County Commissioner, Mrs Kirsty Tomlin, on 07799 135 990 or klgriffiths_4@ hotmail.com. Unfortunately, if we are unable to find more girls interested in joining our Glenkens groups, or we are unable to to find new unit leaders, Guiding in the Glenkens will be closed down at the end of this year. As anyone who has been involved in Guiding will know, it will be a very sad day if this were to happen. We sincerely hope that volunteers will step forward and that girls will be encouraged to join. Guiding has been great in the Glenkens over the past 100 years, please help us to ensure that it goes forward with enthusiasm! Kathryn Peace Can you spot any familiar faces in the Glenkens Guiding Unit? Top photo is from 2018 and above photo around 1990. Out and About Around New Galloway Despite COVID-19 stalwart gardeners have been visiting the Garroch Garden regularly throughought the year with planting of fruit, flowers and vegetables in individual plots, the polytunnel, the greenhouse and common areas. Thanks to Nick Roper-Caldbeck for the opportunity to enjoy this special place and for supporting the upkeep of the grasscutting by his staff. Since the gradual uplifting of the lockdown we have been approached by more people for allotments, flower gardens or just to be kept in touch. If you would like to join, please contact us. As we go to press we are looking forward to being part of the Glenkens Food Month with an apple pressing afternoon. Volunteers on the Golf Course Woods and Garroch Paths have worked hard to keep them well accessible through the prolific growth of the spring and summer to enable many of you to enjoy these lovely walks. You will see some of these featured on the Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING) facebook and website pages. Meanwhile the New Galloway Town Hall has been sitting rather despondently, still in a state of lockdown while everyone else has been having fun. However, it has been dressed up nicely with locally-made bunting and a new tapestry in honour of Betty McQueen, a previous hallkeeper who used to like sitting in the sunshine on the middle windowsill opposite her house and and chatting to passers-by. Other flower troughs have been kept colourfully planted to keep us cheerful even if we couldn’t get in. We’ll let you know as soon as anything changes on this front. We have had a request for a new crafty group and several folk ready to be part of it, so keep a lookout for starting notices. If you are buzzing with ideas of what you would like to do in the hall just let us know on ros.hill@ rathanhouse.me.uk or 01644 420 632. Ros Hill, Chairman, LING Garroch walled garden © Debra Hall. Glenkens Gazette page 13 Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham Micro Grants Open for Applications A number of community councils around Blackcraig windfarm are now receiving £2,000 per year to be distributed through ‘micro-grants’. The latest round of the Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham Community Council micro-grant scheme is now open, and awards of up to £500 to organisations and £250 to individuals will be considered for projects for charitable purposes to the general benefit of local residents. The application form is available online at www.corsockhall.wixsite.com with details on how it should be returned. The application deadline is 26 October 2020. Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham Community Council Chairman, Joe Seed, said: “This is now our second year of funding. Last year we awarded the full £2,000 that we had available, across eight projects of benefit to our local residents. These included hall improvement costs, equipment such as a lawnmower and dishwashers, and community activities. We are keen to get the word out about the next funding round and if you have any queries, please get in touch. Applications are welcomed, from groups or individuals, by 26 October. Our thanks go as always to the Blackcraig Windfarm Fund for the money.” Pictured: Pippin Fitch next to the flower tubs funded by the last round of micro-grants and planted by Corsock Children’s Club. NOW ONLINE! Glenkens Playgroups - memories wanted As Bright Stars Nursery shut its doors for the last time in March – a planned closure in July brought forward by the COVID-19 pandemic – we want to celebrate the long history of playgroups, toddler groups and nurseries that the Glenkens Community Centre in Dalry has hosted over the years. Did you attend any of these groups with your little ones – not so little now! We’d love to take copies of any old photos that you could share, or hear stories of your time there, or even just get dates of when groups started and changed. Email your thoughts to Helen on keronh@me.com and we’ll try and get a really good feature in the next edition of the Gazette. Thank you! Helen Keron 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 Glenkens Gazette page 14 Waterside Hill Plantation Update Kerry Morrison, a member of the Dalry Community Council Subgroup for Waterside Hill, and Alison Wallace from Scottish Woodlands have for some months been in dialogue regarding woodland creation proposals on Waterside Hill. They have been listening to community voices and opinions and discussing how a woodland creation on Waterside Hill could benefit communities and stakeholders, retain key cultural features and views, benefit wildlife and address the climate emergency. As a result, a new proposal is going out to public consultation. The new scheme proposes that Waterside Hill is planted with predominantly native broadleaf species, with some Scots pine and Douglas fir which would be thinned over time and managed so that they would grow into a mature woodland that will retain carbon and support wildlife. This new proposal has been designed to enhance community access and amenity with increased open space, allowing full access to and around the Witches’ Score. An area adjacent to the existing Craigbubble Wood is set aside for the communities of Dalry and New Galloway to develop and utilise as they feel appropriate (more to follow on this aspect later). A more commercial element is proposed behind Waterside Hill to the north consisting of Sitka spruce, Norway spruce and native broadleaf species. As a new proposal (from Scottish Woodlands to Forestry Scotland), this combined scheme will be subject to full consultation, giving local communities the opportunity to ask further questions and comment. The first community consultation for this new proposal will take place at Dalry Town Hall on Thursday 8 October between 1pm and 7pm. Due to COVID-19, it is essential to book so if you would like to meet with Alison and a member of Dalry Community Council Subgroup for Waterside Hill to ask more about the scheme, please call Scottish Woodlands on 01556 502 754 and book a slot. The second public consultation will be in New Galloway, with the date and venue as yet to be confirmed. Due to challenges around consultation processes during the pandemic and with members of the community continuing to shield, it is also possible to send any questions or comments you may have to Alison Wallace directly on alison.wallace@ scottishwoodlands.co.uk or to a member of the Dalry Community Council Subgroup for Waterside Hill on watersidewood@gmail. com For further information about the consultation process and updates, please visit the Waterside Ways Facebook page and keep an eye on local notice boards in Dalry and New Galloway. Kerry Morrison, Dalry Community Council Subgroup for Waterside Hill NB Scottish Woodlands is the agent who was approached by the landowner, Earlstoun Estate, to draw up the woodland creation scheme for Waterside Hill. Scottish Forestry (formerly the Forestry Commission) is the body in charge of government grants for woodland creation and they are also in charge of approving proposals. Woodland creation schemes don’t go to D&G planning department but are dealt with by Scottish Forestry. Pictured below is a map of the proposed planting (© Scottish Forestry). Please note that this is a draft proposal published prior to public and stakeholder consultation and therefore may be subject to further changes. Glenkens Gazette page 15 Some Thoughts on Climate Change Below is a response to articles featured in the last edition of the Gazette from Laurieston resident Geoff Monk. Clearly there is a broadly based depth of feeling at the outset. I very much love being outdoors, and for me that may well involve running along the ridge of the Rhinns of Kells, reaching the top of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn, or the coastal paths on the Solway. I look for solitude and outstanding views – with as little evidence of human habitation as possible. My subsequent comments might give a different tone – so as you read on please hold my ideals in mind. Forestry I don’t want to deal with the pros and cons of particular proposals. However, whatever plans are on offer, we have to be honest that in Galloway, as in many parts of the world, our land has changed beyond recognition from what gradually evolved to be a more or less steady state after the last ice age. Present uninterrupted views would have been largely restricted to higher summits – above the climate dictated tree line. I think most of us would recognize that humanity has far overdone manipulation of the land, certainly to the detriment of biodiversity. That does also mean there might be some species living locally that would not be here in much more forested conditions. One difficulty in understanding the total human impact on the land, is that it mostly occurred so long ago that there is almost nothing in our ‘collective memories’ that senses what unspoilt land really looks like. Our understanding and starting point for debate tends to be what we see out of the window. Encouraging Biodiversity There are two difficult discussions we must have. Firstly, in recognising that without land management, humans would still be living as subsistence farmers or hunter gatherers with a very much lower population, we ask what steps can we, now part of a very full ‘human planet’ take to nudge back – rewild if you like – our little corner of earth toward a more thriving diverse entity. One example is that we have learned that extended unmanaged corridors, often next to canals or railway lines, provide zones of biodiversity – ranges of flora and fauna not found in our broadly rectangular fields or forest enclosures. Forests need to be replanted in a manner that will most encourage plants and animals. Yes, we also need to be alive to humanity’s desire for wood – and thus there will be the likes of Sitka spruce included. But how can our pieced woodland areas be joined up using corridors around our grazed fields, roads and tracks? How many saplings are simply killed at our annual culling of road and field side hedges? Surely the loss in cereal stock production would be low if even a few metres at field boundaries was allowed to return to a much more natural state. Yes, we would lose a lot of now open views. It is vital that humanity as a whole, and each community in particular, takes radical steps to vastly lower our human footprint on the earth. Broadly those of us in the west are using or diminishing the earth’s resources around three times faster than the earth can can naturally replenish what is lost. Climate Change The second discussion is climate change. Quite simply when we burn something, carbon dioxide is emitted into the air – which has little impact at all on incoming heat from the sun but ‘punches far above its weight’ in inhibiting that heat from leaving our atmosphere. The impact is an imperceptibly warming earth – which will continue until a new steady state is reached. The higher the new carbon dioxide level (together with the rise in quantity of other gases that have the example, we have an insatiable desire for travel; on land this requires a certain amount of energy, but this is increased dramatically to get us airborne or across the sea. (How have we moved from where only a tiny minority of people cruised across the oceans to where many of us burn our way across the seas on massive cruise ships?) Thus, our response to climate change now has to be far more radical than had we acted in 1990. Our Response to Environmental Changes Whether you or I like it or not, planting vast numbers of trees to help sequest carbon dioxide is only the starting point. We need to move toward solar panels being fitted to almost every building, across the tropics perhaps solar ovens (instead of wood fired) will need to be universal, and where there is plentiful wind energy, it should be harnessed. Hopefully research into tidal and wave power will bear fruit. Galloway is ideal for wind power. You or I might not like the prospect of wind turbines surrounding Cairnsmore of Carsphairn but if we do not lovingly embrace them, life is going to be very difficult indeed for our children and grand children. Thus as individuals and communities, with our backs very much against the wall, our care for the future of God’s planet must drive us to live very differently: vastly increasing renewable energy use and severely pruning use of earth’s resources, particularly fossil fuels. The Glenkens Our regional council has declared a climate emergency. Our community councils (and appropriate local groups and initiatives) need to follow, working out local strategies. Our decisions in combating climate change and rebalancing our environment should be shaped by listening to those who are currently starting (or soon to start) adult life and those who have already made strides in adapting their lifestyles. Unfortunately, we cannot bury our heads in what we see as our beautiful, peaceful, natural and archeologically rich Glenkens. Geoff Monk has run the Weather Centre in Laurieston for over 20 years and previous to that worked for the Meteorological Office. ...we cannot bury our heads in what we see as our beautiful, peaceful, natural and archeologically rich Glenkens. same heating effect) the warmer and more ‘uncomfortable’ for the present range of flora and fauna (no doubt some species will thrive, but many will not). Presently we are on course for massive loss of species. Warming may please us in terms of our electricity bills, but even small changes in average temperature are taking the earth out of delicate balance. What is more, it so happens small temperature rises allow higher levels of moisture to reside in the air. There is already evidence over time that as this moisture falls out of the air as rain-bearing cloud reaches Galloway directly off the Irish Sea, it is resulting in increased rainfall, in particular more very heavy, even extreme events. Thus more flooding. It is now more than 30 years since atmospheric scientists were able to express anticipated changes to the climate explicitly. Yet since 1990, humanity has conspired to accentuate the changes – by burning more and more fossil fuel. For Glenkens Gazette page 16 PROTECTING OUR SPECIAL PLACES Mochrum Fell Iron Age Fort In times past, amidst great troubles, hill forts offered communities hope and security. In the Glenkens, our twin iron age forts of Mochrum Fell and Stroanfreggan surely deserve to be protected as special iconic places. The troubles we face today are the same troubles our ancestors bore thousands of years ago; that of invasion. The nature of invasion has changed over time but the effects are timeless. COVID-19 is undeniably the major invader of the moment, a viral enemy of the utmost stealth and forcing our homes to become mini fortresses. Beyond the present crisis, controlling invasion is pretty much a day-to-day activity across the world. In Scotland we are lucky enough to have a democracy which allows us, as a community, to consult with planners. Thankfully, the tool of choice for fending off invasive notions has graduated from sword to voice. Yet our democratic institutions now face an invasion of their own and the democratic fortress is under threat. Like COVID-19, the democratic enemy operates with utmost stealth. The invasion is experienced as an insidious cancer which eats into the very core of our hope and security. In truth every single one of us in the Glenkens is an invader; the history of southwest Scotland is defined by waves of invasion. What starts off as a potential rejuvenating colonisation soon develops into a self-destructive invading force which hits a limit to growth. Quite simply, every invading force sucks the life out of its environment. After the ice age, first came the trees; then came the people; then came the peat; then came the cattle droving; then the sheep; then came the tourists; then the hydro dams; then the Sitka plantations; then the turbines. The upland landscape is so complex and natural in the Glenkens that today we are left with an amazing mosaic landscape which has the ability to subsume all manners of peaceful colonisation. It is only through an equitable and democratic planning system that we can manage the worst of invading forces which threaten to damage the Special Places that contribute so much to our well-being. Herding of sheep and cattle is no longer the main economic powerhouse of the Glenkens economy. The demise of the associated rich culture is a sad loss and it is imperative that what is left of the community has a place in our socio-economic strategy. Pastoral herding continues to be a very important contributor to upland resilience. The loss of pasture to Sitka is much lamented and for very good reason. Nowadays, our economy is based around Trees, Tourists and Turbines - the three Ts. Each of these is competing for land resource and each is a potential powerhouse invader. Sitka plantations, uncontrolled, pollute habitat and contribute to flood risk. Tourists, uncontrolled, pollute local interests primarily through litter dumping and irresponsible access. Turbines, uncontrolled, create noise pollution, light pollution and visual disturbance. Just as Stroanfreggan has been invaded by sheep, Mochrum Fell iron age fort has been invaded by trees. Sadly Mochrum Fell itself is to be invaded next by turbines. The developers have attempted to include Tourists by putting a picnic area under the turbines; however, it does seem to be a rather weak attempt to balance the Trees, Tourist and Turbine trio for the planning application. A recent conversation with a friend yielded a fourth T in the Glenkens socialeconomy. That T is Trust. Can we trust in the democratic institutions of this time, that they will deliver an equitable and fair planning outcome? Can we trust that polluting invaders will be sent packing by government officials who seek to improve the lives of those in already polluted cities? Or are we in the Glenkens simply the sacrificial lambs at the feet of our vitrified iron age hill forts. If you have any Special Places which you feel are under threat, please email me through fclubb@ btinternet.com Fiona Clubb, Carsphairn Mochrum Fell Together We Can Make a Difference While the world sits amidst a global pandemic a tsunami of commercial wind farm applications have been put forward which threaten to overwhelm the landscape around Corsock. It is worrying that, whilst lockdown conditions continue and public consultations are not possible, decisions on major issues which will impact our area for generations to come are being made without us. Proposed applications currently are Mochrum Fell (7 of 149.9m), Fell wind farm (7 of 200m, 2 of 180m), Garcrogo (10 of 190m) and Whiteneuk (Loch Urr site 35 of 250m) wind farms. If approved this would mean 84 turbines up to 250m dominating our landscape. At times the grid is already unable to cope with the electricity produced by the existing Blackcraig wind farm, meaning that the turbines have to be shut down. When shut down, ‘constraint payments’ are made to the wind farms - almost £650 million has been paid out to date to Scottish onshore wind farms over the last decade, resulting in 8.7 tera-Watt hours (TWh) of discarded electricity (to put this in perspective, the population of Scotland uses around 33TWh of electricity per year). These payments are paid for by the public through an added charge to our electricity bills. If more wind farms are built, it is likely a new giant pylon line would be needed. Power lines and pylons also have a huge impact on our landscapes. Please ensure you have your say as otherwise proposals like these may well be passed without any local say at all. An appeal has been submitted for Cornharrow (north of the B729 near Stroanfreggan). The Fell wind farm, adjacent to Blackcraig, has also gone to appeal and comments should be sent to DPEA@gov. scot quoting reference PPA-170-2146 (the closing date is officially 25 September but late responses may be accepted). The Mochrum Fell application, Garcrogo and Whiteneuk wind farm applications have not yet been submitted but if you would like to be kept updated, please email trevprocter@aol.co.uk and we will keep you informed - together we can make a difference. Trevor & Elaine Procter, Mochrum Fell Glenkens Gazette page 17 Community Councils Unite on Changing Forestry Planning Policy Forestry applications being proposed now total around 4,500 acres for Dumfries & Galloway, the majority of which are in the Stewartry. It has been an issue for our communities firstly to find out what’s going on and secondly do anything about it if dissatisfied with proposed developments. As a result of this, a document with a list of community concerns was drawn up asking for: • Better community notification and consultation • More planning regulation (as forestry developments are not subject to planning) • Better diversity within new planting plans (many of the new plans are the minimum standard 5% broadleaf) • A cap on the total area of a parish allowed to be forested (to prevent an area being overwhelmed by forestry) • More progressive management plans with nature and visual impact in mind (to protect biodiversity in our region) • A halt on planting until these topics are discussed/resolved with our communities These concerns were submitted to Scottish Forestry who are the government body overseeing new plantations, but all suggestions were rejected. The impact of forestry development is far reaching. The core points were put together by Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham Community Council with input from other community councils and, in early September, a letter was sent out highlighting the points and asking community councils around the region to support the document. It is hoped that by showing solidarity and a united front on these issues we can effect a positive change for our communities by calling for a forestry policy change. So far 10 community councils, representing approximately 7,440 people, Sunflower Showtime Like a lot of things in 2020 the idea began at the start of lockdown with a WhatsApp group chatting online to find out what each member of the group was doing to fill the void whilst spending more time at home. They realised that gardening was the predominant pastime and the idea of a are supporting the document. If readers have concerns about forestry in our region at present, it seems the best course of action is to contact our MSPs directly, as well as to continue to comment on individual plantations at www.casebook.forestry.scot/w/webpage/ prhome The current policy has to be altered at government level to change the grant structure and diversity standards, although Scottish Forestry is responsible for how community consultations are carried out. Some recent and upcoming forestry proposals are: 700 acres near Laurieston, 200 acres outside Dalbeattie, 700 acres near Langholm, 700 acres near Sanquhar and three applications for Carsphairn totalling 2,738 acres. The majority of these cases are minimum broadleaf standards, but there have been positive discussions with some developers resulting in improvements based on community feedback. Joe Seed, Chairman, Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham Community Council sunflower-growing competition emerged. As an incentive, they asked everyone to think of it as growing the flowers to “shine a light on our saviours on the front line” and gave free sunflower seeds out to the growers, as it was not easy to get hold of them. Gradually over the following months sunflowers could be seen throughout the the village of Dalry and stretching into other areas of the Glenkens. It was decided to use the ‘Sunflower Showtime’ exercise to raise money for a charity that reflected the work of individuals who work tirelessly as a matter of course 24/7 to save lives whilst putting their own lives at risk. The Scottish Charity Air Ambulance, which relies totally on donations from the people of Scotland, seemed to fit the bill. Fundraising stalls were set up on Dalry’s Main Street, with opportunities to guess the weight of the cake and how many sweets were in a jar, plus a raffle, prizes for which were donated by local residents. Fundraisers also worked in conjunction with Glenkens Food Month to offer a local home produce and baking stall. The residents of Dalry and the Glenkens are nothing if not generous and, thanks to their donations, a total of £426.85 was raised which will be sent to SCAA. Congratulations to everyone, young and old, who took part and a big ‘thank you’ goes to the fundraising team and all the residents who have supported this effort. The winners of the tallest sunflowers are picured: Left - Mrs Margaret Hamilton who wins the title of Dalry Adult Champion Sunflower Grower. Top right - Ben Hudson, age 11, who wins the title of Glenkens & Surrounding Area Junior Champion Sunflower Grower. Above - Lily Comrie, age 4½, who wins the title of Dalry Junior Champion Sunflower Grower. Lesley Blissett Glenkens Gazette page 18 THE GARDEN SPOT With summer barely over, it’s time to prepare for the new season. In fact, by the time you read this, it will already have started. You should have bought your spring bulbs, planted up pots and tubs for the winter/ spring and be thinking about what changes to make for next year. Any plant that hasn’t performed well – have it out. There is no room in the garden for sickly and poor performing specimens – each one removed is a new opportunity. Even my much-loved banana plant has to go due to failing in old age. When you are planting up your bulbs, hold back on the tulips; best to leave them until late October or early November before planting as this makes them less likely to suffer from Tulip Fire disease. Generally, the best advice is to plant what wants to grow and grows well but we all have our favourites that really don’t like growing in the Glenkens; however - we like to try! Classic amongst these is roses. Roses like a rich clay, alkaline or neutral soil – we definitely don’t have that. They also like hot dry sunny weather in the summer, and we usually don’t get that either. But we persevere by adding farmyard manure, garden compost, watering regularly and adding a mulch. My personal oddity is that I like Snake’s Head Fritillaries; you know that odd plant with chequered flowers that likes to grow in boggy alkaline meadows in the south of England? Well I like to grow it on my acid, dry, grassy bank at the bottom of my hedge and it certainly does not like that. In ideal conditions it will naturalise and come back year after year, but not here. I buy new bulbs each year, they flower in the spring as a great curiosity but never come back. Still I persist – I know they won’t come back but we are all allowed one indulgence, even if it means buying fresh bulbs each year. All the tatties will be up now, but why not dig over the patch one more time looking for overlooked tubers? It might cut down the number of ‘volunteer’ potato plants that spring up next year amongst whatever you plant on the spot, and it’s cheaper than going to the gym! And now to correct one of this season’s mistakes. Unusually, I had an awful crop of garlic this year so I am going to put plenty of compost and chicken manure in the new patch for next season and get the garlic planted before midOctober (along with some overwintering onions). And you know those measly little Where the leaf-cutter garlic cloves bees have been. that aren’t worth planting out? Well I cram them all into a ten-inch pot, as close together as you like, and when they come up, I cut them as ‘green tails’ to add to a salad or use as a garnish. Finally, as I look out of the window, I see neat round holes cut into the edges of some leaves. These are carefully made by leaf-cutter bees and do no harm to the plant. Not all holes in leaves are signs of a problem that needs to be dealt with. Rejoice in the insects that choose to live beside you. The Intrepid Gardener 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 19 A New Face for Crossmichael Complementary Therapy Centre After 30 years of caring for patients from all over the world, Jim Chalmers, current proprietor of Crossmichael Complementary Therapy Centre, had been planning to retire for some time. However, he insisted on not leaving until he could find someone who he was certain could provide the best continuing care for his patients; and now he has. Jim would like to bid a very fond farewell to his patients, and to introduce fellow Aussie Matthew Pajo, a highly skilled practitioner whose approach, like Jim’s, is patient-centred and professional. Matthew 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, with distinction. Matthew, his wife and On the left is Jim Chalmers, and on the right Matthew Pajo. daughter have Jim said: “Many thanks to all my recently patients who have trusted me over arrived from Australia to live the years. I know you will be in in the Glenkens - and what a good hands with Matt - if you have time to arrive; in the middle of any questions at all, just call.” a global pandemic! Hopefully Matthew’s expertise in his field and enthusiasm for this new role will, To get in touch you can call Jim at this challenging time, be of real Chalmers on 07749 087 699 or benefit to people in and around the Matthew Pajo on 07786 079 845. Glenkens area. CROSSMICHAEL COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY CENTRE Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine The Old School, Crossmichael, DG7 3AP Offering time-tested, personalised acupuncture and traditional Chinese herbal medicine to the Dumfries & Galloway region. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) is recommending acupuncture treatment for chronic pain conditions instead of pharmaceutical pain killers, on the premise that opioids and many analgesics do more harm than good*. So, what better choice is there? Acupuncture is safe, drug-free and effective. With traditional acupuncture and Chinese medicine from a qualified and trusted practitioner, you will receive authentic and researched treatments. * NICE draft clinical guideline published 3rd August 2020 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 Glenkens Gazette page 20 Glenkens Gazette page 21 Curtains Up for Dalry Film Club Dalry Film Club is looking forward to presenting a new season of films to their local audience in Dalry Town Hall. Film club chair, Jim Reid, said: “Television and the internet have been great during the lockdown but, for many of us, the big screen is by far the best way of viewing films - that’s what they were made for. We imagine that our audience has missed our screenings as much as we have, so we’re delighted to once again be able to open the doors to local film-goers.” There are a number of necessary changes to the Town Hall screenings which have had to be made in line with current guidance regarding COVID-19, to make the experience as safe as possible. Please ensure you use the hand sanitisers provided and also viewers will be required to wear face coverings. Also, social distancing requirements have reduced the audience numbers to about fifteen which means that if you turn up on the night you may not find there are spaces - to ensure a seat, please do phone and book via the CatStrand or book online (01644 420 374 or www. catstrand.com). Jim goes on to say: “This limit in numbers has made the economics of film shows very challenging and we could not run without the support we get from the CatStrand and Driftwood Cinema. Nevertheless, we have decided to keep our price to £5 for the moment to ensure it’s affordable for people. Of course, we also recognise that we are at the mercy of circumstances and may need to cancel individual films or the season as a whole if needs arise.” UPCOMING SCREENINGS: Downton Abbey - 7 October Knives Out - 21 October 1917 - 4 November Personal History of David Copperfield - 18 November Emma - 9 December Little Women - 6 January Military Wives - 27 January The Joys of Minor Classics: Anne Bronte and Wilkie Collins As the social restrictions begin to head into the winter months, the joys of finding and [re-]reading books that we might not have found time for become apparent. Two authors seem to fit the bill here: Wilkie Collins and Anne Bronte. My personal favourite Bronte book is The Tenant of Wildfell Hall but cannot choose between Collins’ The Moonstone or The Woman in White. All three books can be supplemented by various Youtube programmes. The Woman in White offers a choice from 1948, 1982, 1997 and 2018, The Moonstone offers 1934 and 1996 and The Tenant of Wildfell Hall offers a 1997 series. In addition, there is plenty of choice through a range of 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 audiobooks for all three. The various Book Club analyses and discussion videos are very much a matter of personal taste. The Woman in White and Wildfell Hall are seen as exploring the position and rights of women in the nineteenth century. The former exploring the impact of a controlling male and the latter celebrating the escape from such domination by a very enterprising and determined mother and wife. In fact, Wildfell Hall has been described as the first feminist novel. The Moonstone is a very early example of the mystery and detective book. All three are beautifully written and crafted of course and will provide hours of pleasant reading. Although written back in the nineteenth century, they have kept their charm and interest. A nice fire in the grate or the woodburner will provide the perfect hint of Victorianism to accompany them. Perhaps candlelight might be just a shade too self-indulgent or a step too far in this respect. Bruce Smith 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 22 Glenkens WW2 Deaths: Part I Regular readers of the Gazette will recall that I wrote a series of articles about the men and women of the Glenkens who are listed on our war memorials and who died in the First World War. I thought that it was high time that I paid similar tribute to those from the Second World War. Although more recent, there is much less information available about these people because, unlike for the Great War, we don’t have access to service records and there was no Stewartry Roll of Honour. But, most importantly, newspapers were not permitted to report events, injuries and deaths in the same way as was common in the first World War. In this series of articles, I will include those who are listed on the four civic war memorials of Kells, Dalry, Balmaclellan and Carsphairn. If anyone has any additional information about these men and women above what I have written (especially photographs), please forward it via the editor and I will add it in future articles [please do NOT send original documents or photographs - Ed]. There were no Glenkens deaths in 1939, and the first (and only) death from 1940 was that of Sergeant Robert Bence. Robert was born in 1908 in Bath, Somerset, to parents Fred and Margaret Bence. He was brought up from infancy by his grandfather James McJannet and assisted in the family provisions business in New Galloway; his aunt, Miss Catherine McJannet, lived in High Street, New Galloway. He joined the Kirkcudbright battery of the Royal Artillery pre-war and went to France in March 1940 as part of the British Expeditionary Force. He served in Belgium and was reported missing on 27 May before the Dunkirk evacuation at 31 years of age. With no known grave, he is commemorated on the Dunkirk Memorial in France and is named on the Kells parish war memorial. The next Glenkens man to fall was Lance Corporal John William Smith O’Neill. John was born in Kelton parish in 1917, the son of William and Sophia (Smith) O’Neill of Balmaclellan. He served with the 2nd Battalion of the Queens Own Cameron Highlanders and was reported missing in action in East Africa on 29 January 1941 at the age of 24. With no known grave, he is commemorated on the Khartoum Memorial, Sudan, along with nearly 600 soldiers of the 1940-41 East African campaign who died in the Sudan or in the advance to Eritrea and Northern Ethiopia. He is named on the Balmaclellan war memorial. Robert Little (known as Bobbie) was born in Kirkcudbrightshire (town/village not identified), the son of the late Robert Maxwell Little, a blacksmith, and Margaret (Kilpatrick) Little of Smithy House, Dalry. He joined the Royal Army Service Corps and was serving at Beacon Barracks, Salisbury, Wiltshire when he was killed during an air-raid on 14 March 1941 at the age of 21. His body was brought back to Dalry and he was buried in Dalry Churchyard where he has a private stone SPALDING WINS CUP The winners of the Inter-county Cup for Stewartry vs Dumfriesshire, won by Dalry’s Spalding Bowling Club paired with Auchencairn Bowling Club. on an official Commonwealth War Grave. He is named on the Dalry war memorial. Next to fall was Flight Sergeant Cecil Robertson. Cecil was born in 1921 in New Galloway, the son of Jessie Agnes Robertson and grandson of Mrs Robertson of High Street, New Galloway. He was educated at Kells school and Kirkcudbright Academy. Cecil enlisted into the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve in 1940 and served with 235 Squadron flying Bristol Blenheim IVs from RAF Bircham Newton, Norfolk on patrols over Holland, and for convoy protection and reconnaissance over the North Sea. His aircraft was shot down by German ME 110 fighters whilst attacking a German convoy off Borkum on the Danish coast. It was later learnt that he had been picked up by German forces, severely wounded and died of wounds on 5 May 1941 at the age of 19. He was initially buried in Wilhelmshaven Military Cemetery but was re-interred in Sage War Cemetery, Germany in July 1947. He is named on the Kells war memorial and the Kirkcudbright Academy memorial. The final death to be included in this article is that of Elizabeth Mary Wood, known as Elma. Elma was born in Dalbeattie in 1920, the daughter of Adam Wacker Wood and Hannah (Robertson) Wood of Kirkland Street, Dalry. She served in several places as a Canteen Assistant for NAAFI (Navy, Army and Air Force Institute). NAAFI is not strictly part of the Armed Forces but can usually be found in barracks and wherever troops are deployed. Their staff fulfil an important role in welfare of the troops. Elma died of Addison’s Disease in Dumfries Infirmary on 18 November 1941 at the age of 21. She is buried in Dalry Churchyard. Elma is not commemorated by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission because, being a member of a civilian organisation, she would only be commemorated by them if she died as a direct result of enemy action. However, the local war memorial committee saw fit to name her on the Dalry war memorial in recognition of her wartime service. She is also named on the Kirkcudbright Academy memorial. Paul Goodwin Glenkens Gazette page 23 Who is in Your Family History? One thing I returned to during the lockdown was researching my family history. I first researched it over fifteen years ago, but things have changed a bit since then. Much more information is available online nowadays, some of it free but much is only available on paid-for sites such as ScotlandsPeople and Ancestry. My original research had used the traditional methods of checking vital records (births, marriages and deaths) but also the censuses taken every ten years (since 1841). I found out in my initial research that I was from a long line of agricultural labourers, many illiterate and a few illegitimate. I was lucky to be able to get back a little over two hundred years on most lines. Generally, only the great and the good had their lives recorded much earlier than that. During the lockdown I was contacted by someone who shared a great-great grandmother (Mary Elizabeth Dowle) with me. I should point out that siblings share a parent, first cousins share a grandparent, second cousins share a great grandparent and we shared a second great grandparent so we are third cousins. He gave me some info about Mary Elizabeth Dowle’s father and I found that records from Lydd in Kent were online. I managed to trace back a further six generations and then a further five generations via an online family website to Richard Wake who was the Sheriff of Northamptonshire. This was a lucky stroke because he was one of said ‘great and good’ so his lineage was well documented in thepeerage.com. I traced his line back to Thomas Wake ‘The Great Wake’. Going further back, there were Knights, an MP and a couple more Sheriffs of Northamptonshire, until I got back to Sir Hugh Wake MP (born 1240) whose mother was Devorguilla of Galloway (not the famous one - her aunt). Her father was Roland of Galloway, then back to Uchtred of Galloway, Fergus Lord of Galloway and Princess Elizabeth, King Henry I of England and William the Conqueror. So, it turns out that I am the 28th greatgrandson of William the Conqueror. Not to get too excited about it, we are probably all descended from William the Conqueror, it’s just that I was lucky enough to be able to trace it. We all have two grandfathers, four great grandfathers, eight great-great grandfathers so… we have 536,870,912 28th great grandfathers and that means that I had 536,870,911 who were NOT William the Conqueror! The one thing that pleases me though, being born English, is that I have always had a love for Scotland in general and the Stewartry in particular. Now I know that, as the 24th great grandson of Roland of Galloway, it is in my DNA! Now I wonder if I can push any other ancestor lines further back? Paul Goodwin Glenkens Gazette page 24 GLENKENS PLACE NAMES: PART VI In the third instalment of this series I touched on matters supernatural and religious. Specifically I mentioned Blackcraig Hill, the old name for which was Beinn Naoimh, the sacred mountain. To recap, this derivation is supported by the place-name Benniff on the Blaeu Atlas, the survey for which was undertaken by Timothy Pont around 1600. On the hill sky-line there is Cairn Molly today, probably from the Gaelic Càrn Molaidh, eulogising or praising cairn. And then there is the discovery of the bronze casting of a Celtic handbell was found in 1892 near Monybuie (Monadh Buidhe, yellow moor) on the slopes of the hill. In this instalment I want to discuss the importance of local pronunciation in the determining of the meaning of place-names. Without getting the local pronunciation it is easy to get driven down blind alleys and end up with something completely wrong. A good example of this takes us back to Blackcraig or Am Beinn Naoimh, the sacred mountain. On the southern slopes of this hill, halfway up the track towards Halfmark and now buried in commercial forestry is the site of a former farmstead called Tydeaverries. By around 1850 this was already in ruins and the Ordnance Survey Name Book records that it had been merged with the farm of Halfmark. The Name Book also recorded some variant spellings of the place-name, Tidyverries, Tydeaverries and even Tydworish. There was clearly some disagreement amongst the Ordnance Survey’s informants as to how to spell the place-name, the matter was settled as recorded as noted therein ‘Mr Black asserts that his brother in law who is the proprietor of this place spells the house thus Tydeaverrys’. This is then a difficult name to try to establish the possible meaning of. In the Blaeu Atlas published in 1654 and mentioned above, it is Tydauarries. Gilbert Markús in the Place-Names of the Galloway Glens website perhaps wisely does not attempt to interpret it. At first glance it would suggest to me, Gaelic Taigh ‘house’ plus dubh-àirigh ‘black summer shieling’with an English plural ‘s’ as often gets added. However this would require a pronunciation in rough phonetic English, Tie Doovery(s) with the emphasis, or stress on the ‘Doo’ part. I have been trying to assist Professor Roibeard Ó Maolalaigh, Professor of Celtic and Gaelic at Glasgow University to check the local pronunciations of some Galloway place-names which he needs for some research into Galloway Gaelic. One of those chosen by him was Tydeaverrys. It is unfortunately the case that a lot of these minor place-names are being forgotten, especially when they are no longer used and are perhaps inaccessible through afforestation or some other reason. Placename pronunciation also can change under influence of new arrivals. A good case in point is Knockman (wood) near Newton Stewart which is always pronounced Knockmaan by older locals whereas it is increasingly being spoken as Knockman to rhyme with ‘postman’. This stress-shift is something BBC Radio Scotland seems to delight in with place-names. Anyhow I was fortunate to be able to speak to some knowledgable locals[1] who had grown up in that area and knew the place and its place-name as had been pronounced in their families in the past. They were good enough to check with other family members as well. The clear pronunciaton that came back was however not what I expected at all. It was Tidy Verries or Tidy Berries with perhaps a slight stress on the ‘Ver/Ber’ part of the second word (Tidy pronounced as English ‘to tidy up’). This blew the ‘house of the black summer shieling’ idea out of the water right away as that pronunciation would not fit at all. I was stumped. However on relating this to Professor Ó Maolalaigh he tentatively suggested a couple of alternatives. The first was Gaelic Taigh dà Bhairr/Bharra ’house of the two tops/ends’. But for a house half way up the hillside that didn’t seem to make much sense topographically although as Roibeard said that might account for the plural form seen in the current version. He also considered Gaelic Taigh do Bharra, ie house + honorific + saint name - ‘House of thy Bairre’ which also would much more closely fit the modern pronunciation. In making this suggestion Roibeard was unaware of the Beinn Naoimh earlier name for Blackcraig Hill, Cairn Molly or the handbell found very close by (see article 3 in this series). All circumstantial evidence to perhaps support a saintly dedication behind Tydeaverrys. Bairre is a hypocoristic form derived from a Gaelic saint called Fionnbharr, alias Finnian, probably attached to the Co. Down church of Movilla in the Ards peninsula in Ulster and who lived around 600 AD[2]. He may have been a tutor of Colum Cille. He also seems to have had a Brittonic pet name, Uinniau (alias Vinnio and Finnio) and he may have been born in one of the Gaelic settlements in Wales. This also may have led to a wide diffusion of his cult. Professor Ó Maolalaigh has pointed out that there is no evidence of a cult to Bairre in Galloway. However in the form Uinniau, he may be represented in Kirkgunzion with its St Winning’s Well not too far from Blackcraig. In conclusion then, more evidence is needed but we may just be seeing a glimpse that the sacred nature of this hill, Blackcraig or Am Beinn Naoimh was connected to a cult to Saint Finnian of Movilla. If so, this would be one of many Galloway dedications to Gaelic Irish saints of the early medieval period. Michael Ansell, Carsphairn 1 My thanks to Alan Smith and John Finlay 2 See A Dictionary of Irish Saints by Padraig Ó Riain, Dublin, 2011 Glenkens Gazette page 25 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN THE FOLK NEXT DOOR Living as we do in what sometimes seems like a covenanting graveyard we tend to forget that there were plenty of folk in Galloway, and indeed the ‘Glenkennes’, who had no truck with radical presbyterianism and who lived out their lives as best they could with few comforts in a difficult country. The earliest truly useful description of Galloway was written in 1684 by Andrew Symson, curate of Kirkinner, Wigtownshire: In the late Rebellion, that unhappy time When loyalty was look’d on as a crime, And Royalists were hooted at like owles Esteem’d deserving nought but scoffs and scowles... Symson seems to have been a decent individual, but desertion by his congregation forced him to eventually move to Edinburgh where he operated as a publisher. He could not, however, escape the violence of his times, publishing Sir George Mackenzie’s Laws and Customs with “a treatise of Mutilation and Demembration and their Punishments”. His Galloway tract factually defined the parishes and boundaries of the province, with some notes on the region’s economy. Parishes were originally ecclesiastical units of land intended to support a priest and a church, with the support of the local laird. Until the 19th century most folk would not travel very far from their birth parish. Here we explore mainly what Sympson wrote about this district; “Balmaclellan, Dalry, Corsefairne, and the Kells ly eastward of the river Dee; and because the river of Kenn runs through them, therefore they are commonly called the Glenkennes” (Sympson’s spelling of place names is used throughout). Excluded from that privileged little band were Corsemichael and Partan. The author’s technique is to give the distance of each parish from Kirkcudbright by the long and shorter routes. For example, Corsemichael is twelve miles distant from Kirkcudbright, “keeping the way thereto upon the east side of the Dee; but only eight miles the nearest way; but then you must cross the water of Dee twice, viz. at the Boat of Balmaghie (ie ferry) and at the town of Kirkcudbright”. On the east the parish is bounded by the parishes of Kirkpatrick and Orr (Urr), on the south by Bootle and Kelton, on the west Balmaghie and on the north Partan. The latter is fourteen miles from the Stewartry capital but only ten, using two Dee crossings. Three lairds claim the right of patronage, presentation of a minister – Viscount Kenmuir, the Laird of Partan and the Laird of Drumrash. When there was no agreement between them the Bishop of Galloway presented jure devoluto (no nomination). Today it is difficult to comprehend why there should have been so much controversy about such a tiny village where inhabitants are seldom seen! Balmaclellan was reckoned about twenty miles from the metropolitan, but crossing at Boat of Rone, at the merchant who left a large sum of money for a free school in Dalry. Corsefairne is twenty-eight miles from Kirkcudbright but following the same route as the Dalryrians saved about four miles. Carved out of Dalry and Kells in the mid seventeenth century the parish was now bordered by the Polmaddy Bourn. The considerable Water of Deuch loses its name on entering the Kenn. Kells with the pint-sized royal burgh of New Galloway enjoys a weekly market and an annual fair as well as Kenmuir Castle. The parish is “for the most part, muirs and mountains”. The exercise which engaged Sympson was inspired by Sir Robert Sibbald, who became president of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh and first professor of medicine at Edinburgh University, as well as Geographer Royal for Scotland. Among his many interests were mapping and gathering information for what might have become the Statistical Account of Scotland a century before Sir John Sinclair’s famous initiative, which is still extremely valuable for Scottish historians, especially of the local variety. Sympson’s interests were overwhelmingly drawn from Wigtownshire but he also tried to supply Stewartry material. He discusses soils, peat, timber, vermin, sheep, horses, bier (a poorer form of barley) and hemp. A big subject in Galloway was the importation of Irish cattle to be fattened in large parks or enclosures, for the English market and consequently a dependency, sometimes fraught, on drovers. He touches on fishing in rivers, lochs and the sea. Galloway’s ports were small and her roads poor. Folk favoured Tuesdays and Thursdays for weddings. When someone died the event was advertised by burning the bed-straw of the deceased. He was interested in language, proverbs, weights and measures. As a wise man wrote, “haein the richt tae be oorsels disnae mean turnin inwards an only carin aboot oorsels, but in learnin tae respect, tolerate an byde in peace wi oor fella Scots an ither folk, stertin wi oor neebours’”. Tak Tent! Balmaclellan was reckoned about twenty miles from the metropolitan, but crossing at Boat of Rone, at the influx of the Dee into the Loch of Kenn, saved about six miles. influx of the Dee into the Loch of Kenn, saved about six miles. Further north was Dalry but the shorter route involved crossing the Kenn and then Boat of Roan with another crossing at Kirkcudbright. “About a furlong distant from the east end of the kirk, there is a little town commonly called St John’s Clachan, or the Old Clachan, partly belonging to the Earl of Galloway and partly to the Laird of Earlstoun”. Dalry is “bounded” by a record number of neighbours – Balmaclellan, Kells and Corsefairne both separated from the village by the Kenn; and by the parishes of Cumnock, Sanquhair, Pinpont at Polskeoch and Glencairn separated by the Water of Castlefairne. Sympson mentions the endowment of Alexander Bryce, a local and a wealthy Ted Cowan Glenkens Gazette page 26 The Empire Windrush Connection A contribution by Jennifer and Sandy Harvie: We have been going through Sandy’s mum’s [Mrs Rita Harvie] things while emptying out her house and have come across clippings from newspapers about the sinking of the Empire Windrush. William (Billy) Campbell was Rita’s younger brother and eventually lived in Wales with his wife and family and died some years ago. Mrs Rita Harvie, who sadly passed away in October 2019, was well known in the village and around the Glenkens. Here is some information about the Empire Windrush, and then the excerpts from the paper follow: HMT (His Majesty’s Transport) Empire Windrush, originally MV (Motor Vessel) Monte Rosa, was a passenger liner and cruise ship launched in Germany in 1930. She was owned and operated by the German shipping line Hamburg Süd in the 1930s under the name Monte Rosa. During World War II she was operated by the German navy as a troopship. At the end of the war, she was taken by the British Government as a prize of war and renamed the Empire Windrush. In British service, she continued to be used as a troopship until March 1954, when the vessel caught fire and sank in the Mediterranean Sea with the loss of four crew. Empire Windrush brought one of the first large groups of postwar West Indian immigrants to the United Kingdom, carrying 1,027 passengers and two stowaways on a voyage from Jamaica to London in 1948. British Caribbean people who came to the United Kingdom in the period after World War II, including those who came on later ships, are sometimes referred to as the Windrush generation. Glenkens Gazette page 27 YOUR CHANCE TO SHAPE LOCHSIDE LIFE The Loch Ken Trust is a new charity which has been set up to put the community at the heart of decisionmaking on how to make life better around Loch Ken. Gazette, but would love to see even more. The Trust aims to make the future of Loch Ken better and brighter for everyone, and in order to achieve this we need input from as many different people as possible.” If you are interested in joining the Loch Ken Trust, or have any thoughts or ideas which you feel could work for the project, please contact LKToffice@ protonmail.com or visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/lochkentrust As a new organisation, we are looking to recruit members to help guide the work we do - so why not join the Loch Ken Trust? We would love to have you on board! Membership is completely free and open to anyone who supports our purpose: “To promote the natural, cultural and recreational assets of the Loch Ken area for the benefit of the public and to support sustainable local communities.” Barnaby Fryer, the Loch Ken Trust officer overseeing the project, told us: “We have been thrilled by the stream of membership applications received since our feature in the last Glenkens Progress Report: Windy Rig Wind Farm aggregates and piping. One of the local companies, GTR Contracts based just outside Dumfries, supply us with the heavy machinery required to construct the tracks to the turbine locations. MESSAGING SERVICE Are you a regular user of the B729? Do you receive text messages to be told about any large deliveries or additional activity on the route to our site? Contact Doug Wilson if you would like to be added, doug.wilson@statkraft.com or call 07542 754 642. For up to date information on construction progress, visit www.statkraft.co.uk/windyrig Advertisement ONSITE PROGRESS We have had a busy couple of months onsite with more access tracks being completed and work starting on the turbine foundations. On the public road, installation of the passing places is nearly complete and good progress is being made on the road widening in preparation for the turbine deliveries. Because we have been able to source stone within the site to create the access tracks, we have managed to greatly reduce the traffic along the B729. The addition of the new passing places is helping to ease congestion along the route. LOCAL SUPPLIERS We are pleased to see lots of local suppliers on site. Almost half of our present suppliers come from within a 30-mile radius of the site. We are currently using local suppliers for plant hire, Glenkens Gazette The last three years have been a tremendous success for the Connecting in Communities (CiC) project. Managed by Brian Jones and Chris Jowsey, and based at CatStrand in New Galloway, this project was part funded by LEADER and the Big Lottery and was primarily aimed at helping reduce rural and social isolation in the Glenkens. There are too many groups, activities and events to mention but here’s but a selection of what was delivered: the CatStrand Ukulele Band (who raised thousands of pounds for local charities and good causes), the Glenkens Men’s Shed (first and finest in Dumfries & Galloway), yoga, fitness, tai-chi, film club, intergenerational projects (check out the mural at CatStrand), walking groups, writing and photography groups, page 28 learn the whistle, beginners ukes and some mega rock events and discos. The original CiC project has now ended and we’d like thank each and every person who took part, whether this was as a volunteer, activity lead, participant, audience member or simply took part in one of our surveys - thank you; you’ve really help make the Glenkens a better place to live. But this is not the end! Thanks to a National Lottery award from The National Lottery Community Fund Connecting in Communities are embarking on a new and exciting two-year project. We’ll be based at The Smiddy in Balmaclellan and feature loads of your favourite groups and activities plus loads of new ones, all made possible thanks to National Lottery players! The Smiddy is a fabulous new building with boundless possibilities for allsorts of activities, and its co-existence with the Men’s Shed offers even more opportunities. Learning will feature greatly in the new project and we’re building partnerships to maximise the Smiddy’s potential as a learning hub. Our Skills Club, run in conjunction with the IT Centre, helping people develop their skills for employment, will be one the first activities back in the Smiddy when COVID-19 restrictions end. COVID-19 has put a hold on us getting together just now, but thanks to Zoom, and the wonders of modern technology, many of our events are available online. The new project will have more of a focus on helping groups become self-sufficient, and getting new ones started, so if you have an idea that’ll help enhance our community, please get in touch - Brian and Chris would love to hear from you. Meanwhile, opposite is a list of what’s on offer remotely and who to contact if you would like to join in (please note that times and activities change so always check with the contact for the latest information). For further info call 01644 420 274 or email chris@catstrand.com or brian@catstrand.com Glenkens Gazette page 29 ONLINE CLASSES WITH CiC 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 GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 PROFESSIONAL GARDENER Available for part-time garden maintenance and autumn clearances. Reliable and friendly service with 20 years experience. Contact Debbie on 07710 771 433 Glenkens Gazette page 30 Glenkens Gazette page 31 Many events and activities are still on hold at the time of going to print due to COVID-19. Please check government guidelines for up-to-date information on social activities during October & November. CROSSMICHAEL & PARTON POPPY APPEAL Due to COVID-19 restrictions there will be no door-todoor collection this year. However, donations can be left at Crossmichael village shop or contact Margaret Nelson on 01556 670 595 for postal details. There is also ‘The Crossmichael (virtual) Local’ Facebook page through which JustGiving donations can be made online. LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Glenkens Community Shop: Contact Shirley McNaught on 07955 743 022 or drop by the charity shop on Main Street, Dalry Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact Ros Hill on ros.hill@rathanhouse.co.uk Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Andi Holmes on andiholmes@hotmail.com or 07729 292 126 Dalry Town Hall: Contact Jim Reid on 01644 430231 or jamescreid@hotmail.co.uk Glenkens Community Centre: Contact Carylann Williamson on williamsoncarylann@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact Sam Rushton on 07741 656601 or samCEW@newgallowaycommunity.shop or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins on 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 Bright Stars - Glenkens Community Nursery: Contact glenkenscommunitynursery@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie on 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: Apart from Remembrance Sunday, we will be holding just one Church of Scotland service each Sunday. Videos will continue to be posted on youtube, accessed by typing ‘Balmaclellan, Kells and Dalry with Carsphairn’ into the youtube search box. Remembrance Services (8 Nov): 10.30am in Carsphairn Church; 10.55am at New Galloway War Memorial – act of remembrance, followed by short open-air service; 10.55am Balmaclellan War Memorial – short act of remembrance; 12noon Dalry Church SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: Sunday Services: Balmaclellan 11am: 4 Oct & 1 Nov; Carsphairn 11am: 11 Oct; Kells 11am: 18 Oct, 15 & 29 Nov; St Margaret’s, New Galloway: Sunday Dalry 11am: 25 Oct & 22 Nov. Eucharists have re-started, 10.30am. Communion Service: 25 Oct, For information call Pam Swift on 01644 11am, Dalry Church. 15 Nov, 11am, 420467. Carsphairn Church. 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 32 Smithy Wins Travellers’ Choice Award The Smithy tearoom in New Galloway have received a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice 2020 Award. Margaret and Andrew have been running the Smithy Café and Gift shop since March 2018 and have recently received this fantastic tripadvisor award. Margaret and Andrew said: “We were delighted to receive the following email from Tripadvisor– “Congratulations to The Smithy on being a Travellers’ Choice winner. Each year, we comb through reviews, ratings, and saves from travellers everywhere, and use that info to award the very best. You’re part of an exclusive group; you’re in the top 10% of restaurants worldwide”. Many thanks to the people who have made this possible. It has been a strange year for us all but the staff at the Smithy and our suppliers have taken the opportunity to shine in these difficult times. “The many messages and best wishes received from our customers and visitors are truly appreciated and we thank you all for your continued support. Stay safe and well.” Well done Margaret and Andrew for creating such an outstanding, well-loved and award-winning little café in the wonderful setting of New Galloway. STOP PRESS: Just as this edition of the Gazette was going to print, The Smithy was nominated in the Sunday Post under the best five ‘Cool Coffee Shops’ in Scotland - what an accolade! Margaret and Andrew with their Tripadvisor award. - 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 10th October • 14th November 10am-12.30pm - See Glenkens Food Hub ad on p3 For further information or to book a stall ring 01644 430 454 or visit www.dalrytownhall.co.uk Entrance by donation - proceeds towards Dalry Town Hall Refurbishment Fund North of Castle Douglas, A713 Ayr Road 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 DEC/JAN COPY DEADLINE: 5 NOV Butcher Meat Fruit & Veg Milk & Bread Available to order Design & co-ordination: Sarah Ade sarah.ade@gmail.com Printing: www.instantprint.co.uk 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 120 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_120 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 2020 Description An account of the resource Editor: Sarah Ade https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/268/GlenkensGazette121.pdf 895c7c4c789ef615ed2aed2505c509bc 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 121 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 2020/January 2021 ISSUE 121 FREE A GLENKENS HOGMANAY First footing and house parties may not be on the cards for this Hogmanay, but plans are underway for an alternative way to celebrate with friends, family and the community. you live in or have connections with the Glenkens, if you want to send a video or audio message to family or friends, do send them in! You can do this by sending a video or recording directly, by requesting a doorstep visit from our fabulous roving reporter or by visiting our pop-up greetings pod that will be touring the Glenkens community on Saturday 12 December. If you would like to send a 30 second greetings video (or even a short party piece – we’d love to see those!), please send Working with local it via WhatsApp to 07741 communities, New Galloway 656 601. Alternatively you Community Enterprises (NGCE) can send it via WeTransfer to and CatStrand are excited glenkenshogmanay@gmail. to announce ‘A Glenkens com. To request a doorstep Hogmanay’. In the run-up to visit or book to come along to the bells, our very own Jools our greetings pod, contact Sam Holland - aka Brian Edgar!on 07741 656 601. We’ll try will be live-hosting a fantastic and fit just as many of them in programme of entertainment as we can. from the amazing Shore Road We don’t want anyone to miss Ceilidh Band, local entertainers Sam Rushton and Brian Edgar look forward to toasting out on watching this fantastic and recorded greetings from the new year in - with you! community event so if you would all in the Glenkens. It can be like some support in getting watched on YouTube or Facebook ready to view it, please don’t celebrate the bells together. in the countdown to midnight on hesitate to get in touch - we can help We want a big part of the programme Thursday 31 December. So settle down in lots of ways! to be your messages to loved ones, in Sam Rushton, on the sofa or roll back the carpet, NGCE Community Engagement Worker the Glenkens or further afield. Whether crack open the bubbles and let’s Growing Our Local Food Network The start of COVID-19 back in March saw an unprecedented increase in demand for locally available food, as supermarket supply chains struggled to keep up. Our local village shops became a lifeline for communities, and deliveries from Fleet Fish, Roan’s Dairy and other food providers increased. Local mutual aid groups popped up all across the region, with interventions such as the Community Cupboards and food collections for people who were selfisolating. September brought us Glenkens Food Month and the launch of the Glenkens Community Action Plan (see article on p17). Food Month aimed to raise the profile of local food and producers through initiatives such as the Shop Local, Eat Local. It also saw the restart of the Glenkens Producer Market – which had shut its doors due to COVID – and supported the birth of the Glenkens Food Hub. Continued on p5... A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative Some of the stallholders at the Glenkens Producers Market. www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 AN UPDATE FROM LOCH KEN TRUST Having now gained approval from the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) Loch Ken Trust (LKT) has been on a recruitment drive for new members and we are delighted with the response to date. At the time of writing just over 70 members have joined us, and we are delighted with the breadth of interest groups represented and the number of new faces. There really are a lot of people out there who love the loch, are interested in its future development and are willing to get involved. Recruitment is ongoing, however and it is never too late to join. If interested, please contact us on lktoffice@protonmail.com or phone Barnaby Fryer on 07470 557742. Many of our members have expressed an interest in becoming trustees and the initial Trustee Board is now looking at the skill sets on offer and appointing what will be the first full board. Trustees will require to stand for re-election on an annual basis. As mentioned above, a key aspect will be to make sure that the voices of all interest groups are heard. Whilst the mechanics of governance trundle on, there have been quite a few developments on the ground: • A signage audit has been commissioned with a view to identifying what signage we currently have around the loch and how we can improve on it both in respect of content and visual coherence. • As a first step a new more informative sign is in place at the public slipway at the viaduct and others are in production for the west bank. • Work on development of a new website is progressing satisfactorily. • LKT has been chosen to partner with Adaptation Scotland on a major project called Climate Ready Ken. The project, which is funded by the Scottish Government, allows Adaptation Scotland to provide advice and both management and financial support recognising our real appetite to work to increase the resilience of our community in the face of climate change. We are delighted to have been chosen for this which moves us on to a national stage with only one other community in Scotland taking part. Much of this work will also serve to inform the 10-year plan, production of which is a key focus for the Trust. Regrettably the programme of events we had scheduled for this autumn under the banner ‘Autumn of Endurance’ has had to be postponed for obvious reasons but we are currently working on rescheduling this as a ‘Spring Back to Action’ plus further events next autumn. We continue to plan albeit delivery is dependent on outside factors. There have been many challenges over the summer, reflecting countryside access issues which are playing out on a national scale. We have kept our particular issues in front of our elected representatives and will continue to do so. We are of the opinion that our own challenges could be addressed to a large degree by the appointment of a full time ranger, but funding continues to prove the issue. Our Boat Registration Scheme has worked well over the summer, but we could achieve so much more with a land-based officer to inform, welcome and police the loch for the benefit of all. Alan Smith, Chairman, Loch Ken Trust Glenkens Gazette page 3 Help With a Virtual Christmas The events and circumstances of 2020 have certainly challenged us, not least by having to find alternative and creative ways to connect with family, friends and our local community. “Socially distanced”, “Zoom” and “Microsoft Teams” have had to become common vocabulary for many. Some of us may have managed to sidestep the digital world so far by having socially-distanced catch-ups outside or good old-fashioned phone calls, but as the winter approaches, maybe the outdoor meet-ups don’t seem quite so appealing or maybe you really want to ‘see’ friends and family - or join in the many online events and activities that are on offer. Well – the good news is that our local organisations are on it – on IT! Would you love to video call family and friends at Christmas but just don’t know how to get started? Do you wish you could get photos of loved ones sent to you by email but don’t have a computer? Is it the Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING) Zoom Bingo you’re missing?! Want to join a Connecting in Communities activity or enjoy a CatStrand ‘at home’ event? No worries - help is on hand! Thanks to funding from the Corra Foundation and the Co-op Community Fund, New Galloway & Kells Community Council, New Galloway Community Enterprises and LING are able to provide everything you need to get you started or improve your skills on the internet. If you reside in the Kells and New Galloway & Kells parish then we can, at no cost to you, provide a loan of a Chromebook and dongle (aka a laptop connected to the internet even if you don’t have it in your home) and, with help from the IT Centre in Castle Douglas, can provide you with free training to help you get safely connected and online doing what you want to. Please do not let nerves, age, knowledge or finances be the barriers to getting you connected and venturing into the new ways of socialising. Once you’ve tried them, you’ll be very pleasantly surprised. For more information contact Sam Rushton, Community Engagement Worker for New Galloway& Kells, on 07741 656 601. Pick up the phone and start your journey! 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: 2nd Saturday Monthly Dalry Town Hall, 10am-1pm - 12th December & 9th 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) Christmas Eve: 7am - 5pm Christmas Day: closed Boxing Day: 8am - 2pm Hogmanay: 7am - 5pm 1st January: closed 2nd January: 8am - 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 4 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 Neff double oven, 13 years old but working fine. Ring 460 516 Free: horse manure (including some chicken), rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 Thule Alpine 900 Large Roofbox (900x2320mm); roofbars for vehicle with roof-rails between 1100 to 1270mm apart; TGA Electrobike - little used and in good order; Nilfisk Alto Click&Clean accessories (power nozzle, drain and pipe cleaner and car brush - all unused); several 1 gallon glass demijohns. Contact: 01644 460 619 WANTED FOR SALE Old lawn mowers/strimmers/ other small machinery. Nonrunners/broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 Bath lift, £50, full working order when last used. Mr Samuel Fisher: 01644 420 843 Old Singer sewing machine, treadle or hand operated. Must be in working order and with shuttles please. Contact: 07889 229 340 Photo of the Issue Sponsored by the Ken Bridge Hotel This issue’s winner is an amazing shot of a blackface gimmer springing up into the air by Eilidh MacPherson. Eilidh wins an evening meal for two up to the value of £30 at the Ken Bridge Hotel. Competition judges Dave and Sue said: “We had another great selection of entries this issue, but chose the photograph of the lamb looking to seal its place as favourite in the first steeple chase in next season’s racing calendar as it made us smile, as well as being so representative of farming in the Glenkens.” How to Enter: any photos taken in the Glenkens can be entered - landscapes, wildlife, portraits, action shots... Email them to glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk If you are a winner, the Gazette will send you out a voucher - please call the Ken Bridge to check opening times in light of current COVID-19 guidelines. THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm 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  Kindling available 01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS  Glenkens Gazette page 5 sponsored by THE GLENKENS FOOD HUB Continued from front page... The Glenkens Food Hub is a work in progress with big ambitions. We’ve started small, setting up an ‘online shop’ on the Open Food Network, making space for local food producers to list their products. New producers such as Hidden Veg, Gill’s Buns and Upper Dullarg Free Range Eggs have joined regulars like Irene McCreath and Solway Smokehouse. Potential customers can browse items and pre-order for collection at the Glenkens Producer Market. Although you don’t have to preorder, we are trying to encourage it. It’s COVID-safer, and helpful for producers so we know how much to make and bring, which reduces food waste. The online Food Hub has brought a boost to the market – customers have a wider choice and this has enabled footfall to grow each month. Having a regular online presence is also helping – the customer base is growing and more people are aware of what’s going on. Jim Reid, long-time organiser of the market said: “The hall committee has worked hard to make the hall COVID-secure for visitors. So we are gratified that the market is so obviously growing and improving month by month. We get favourable comments from our visitors every time.” The Food Hub wants to find and support more local producers to supply good food to local people. We’d love to hear from anyone who wants to bring something different to the Hub that may be missing at the moment. We also want to work as a producer-led cooperative to find solutions to shared problems. This could include a hyper-local distribution and delivery system. We’d also like to introduce a prepayment system for the market, so that customers have the option of collecting a box of pre-ordered produce, instead of going round the stalls. The Glenkens Community Action Plan (see article on p17) has similar aims and objectives, so it seems these ambitions are supported by local people, in addition to increasing local fruit and vegetable production and more farm gate food. We’re looking forward to working together to grow local food systems in the Glenkens. The next Producers Market will be Saturday 12 December from 10am- to 1pm, and you can ‘click & collect’ using the online Glenkens Food Hub shop at https://openfoodnetwork.org. uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop#/ producers. Looking forward to a bumper market with lots of festive treats planned! To get in touch, become a producer or find out more about these projects, email Abi via abi@ propagate.org.uk Abi Mordin 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 6 WRITEDOWN RECORDS LOCAL LIFE UNDER LOCKDOWN When the Glenkens Writers could no longer meet in CatStrand because of the lockdown their tutor, Margaret Elphinstone, launched the Writedown initiative. Margaret says: “In times of trouble people want to be together but with lockdown people had to isolate, sometimes living alone. Writing met their need to communicate. Through our writing we entertained and supported each other, sharing fears and unexpected joys and daring to hope for a better future.” Inspired by the Mass Observation project which encouraged ordinary people to keep wartime diaries, she extended an invitation through the Gazette to anyone interested to contribute. Twenty-two writers in the Galloway Glens or with Galloway connections signed up. “As well as bringing people together we have created a fascinating historical record of how a group of people experienced and coped with the onset of a pandemic,” she adds. None of the writers was on the ‘front line’ and most were aware that life in Galloway was better than in many places. But there was mounting anxiety for absent friends and family, and for what would happen to our communities. In contrast, brilliant weather and the natural beauties of Galloway brought solace and inspiration. At the same time, illness and stress created ominous silences among the contributors. One of the writers, Leonie Ewing of Crossmichael says: “We were united by the project - it gave us focus. We brought different life experiences and points of view. It gave us a finger on the pulse of Galloway as the pandemic took hold so we could encourage each other and be uplifted.” Cath Monk of Laurieston recalls that everyone was positive at the start, “but it’s not easy to stay upbeat. We were all missing the contacts and the hugs.” She appreciated the honest sharing of difficult days. “At least we knew, ‘it’s not just me’.” The writers never met as a group, came from diverse backgrounds and many were strangers to each other at the start of the project, but they shared their writing week by week. As Christine Rae of Dalry says: “I shall tell you something, we became a close knit supportive group and it was lovely to be part of it all.” Writedown is proving a popular Christmas present and has already gone to a reprint. The Writedown writers are grateful for the support of Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership, the Galloway Association of Glasgow, Oakleaf Camp, Local Initiatives in New Galloway, New Galloway & Kells Community Council microgrants from Blackcraig Windfarm through Foundation Scotland and to Glenkens Community & Arts Trust for logistical support and administering the project’s finances. Writedown is available from CatStrand and other local outlets, price £7 (£9 including postage & packing). To order phone 01644 420 374 or email info@catstrand.com 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 7 CatStrand Highlights As winter sets in, we are delighted to be able to bring you a mixture of live screening events at CatStrand and more online at CatStrand at Home to keep you entertained over the winter months. find out more). For families, there’s a weekend of puppetry performances in the window from Andy that you won’t want to miss - wrap up and book ahead for shows at 2pm and 4pm from Thursday 17 to Sunday 20 December. Why not make a day of it on Sunday 20 with an afternoon screening of Shaper Caper’s new performance Snow Qween starring Alex McCrossan at CatStrand at 4pm. Or if you are tuckered out you can also watch the An image from the film Honeyland, screening Snow Qween online from Sunday 6 December. CatStrand at Home from 6pm that evening. fishermen and cook behind the Bryggjan We’re delighted to have received a BFI café, a tiny eatery in Iceland’s selfFilm Exhibition Fund award from Filmhub professed dullest town and Arracht, an Scotland to support sustainable, inclusive Irish gaelic thriller filmed entirely on the cultural programming in Scotland, with remote west coast of ireland in Connemara support from ScreenScotland. So are and set at the dawn of The Great Hunger looking forward to bringing you our usual programmed by Tom who saw the film at eclectic mix of independent films over the Glasgow Film Festival this year prethe second weekend in January as part of lockdown. our annual Mid Winter Film Festival. We look forward to seeing you at some Our intern Thomas has been working of our in-person events at CatStrand and away to arrange Q&A’s with directors and bringing you some magical music and producers for the film screenings around theatre events at home if you can’t make the Glenkens as well as online. We’re it out. excited to bring you some international Aidan Nicol, titles including a warm-hearted 01644 420 374 (CatStrand) documentary Lobster Soup about the T R O Y P R A C S U N R O D F L O S H I S H H O S O L E F L E E T A K S T A B D M E S S O R B A D E F G R A Y L I N G U E R R D A C E A O F A N U T N K E F O R A V Y C U S A N O D C A T C M U A A O S T R U T E A M S K R H S M H C R E P R M O H A L A I B U T W O N N I M Enjoy fishing? Why not try to catch the fish hidden in this grid. The fish run up and down, side to side or diagonally. CARP CHAR COD DAB DACE EEL FLOUNDER GRAYLING HADDOCK HALIBUT MACKEREL MINNOW PERCH PIKE RAY SALMON SHARK SKATE SOLE STARFISH TROUT Howewver, there is a fish not on the list which features twice in the grid. The answer to the following clue is an anagram of that word: yellowishbrown fossil resin. Also, unscramble the letters in bold to find a famous monster of the deep. Anwsers:anagram of amber is bream; monster of the deep is Nessie. Our Climate Conversation screenings continue with an afternoon screening on Sunday 6 December of Macedonian film Honeyland (12), nominated for best documentary at the Oscars this year. Empire called it “Stunningly beautiful and quietly powerful” and we’d have to agree. Following the life of a 50-year-old wild beekeeper and the global trends threatening her way of life and much more, this one will make you think. Our Evening In series of locallyrecorded musicians continues with blues guitarist Adam Blake from Auchenchairn broadcasting on Friday 18 December. Settle in for an evening of music and conversation with a wellseasoned musician and music journalist from CatStrand at Home to enjoy from your sofa (visit www.catstrand.com to Glenkens Gazette page 8 Kells Primary School Update Despite COVID-19 restrictions, Halloween was still celebrated at Kells Primary, albeit without the customary whole school party. There were some gruesome sights staggering around the school playground for our morning ‘wake-up’ activity and, in the afternoon, each class took part in Halloween-themed activities in their own classrooms. It has been a busy start to the new term. P1-4 have begun a new topic, learning about outer space. The first thing they wanted find out was “How the sun came up”. The children investigated this in groups, using a head torch to represent the sun and a tennis ball to represent the Earth. Primary 1-4 P1-4 have also been developing their knowledge and understanding of fractions. P2-4 extended their learning by exploring halving an A4 piece of paper in more complex and interesting ways as well as finding fractions of amounts. They have also been calculating change from £10, £20 and £50 through good old chimney sums and playing ice-cream shops in the Café Corner. P1 enjoyed folding different shapes to find how they could be split into equal parts. The Whole School We celebrated International Outdoor Learning Day on 5 November by taking part in bonfire night themed activities. The focus was on developing teambuilding and problem-solving skills. The children wanted to mark Remembrance Sunday, taking inspiration from other communities, colourfully painting pebbles/stones. Kells decided to create a ‘flower bed’ of poppies to display by the war memorial in New Galloway as a lasting symbol of Remembrance. P1-4 also looked at the poem For The Fallen during our writing lessons and had a go at putting down our gratitude in our own poems. Primary 5–7 We had fun during our ‘Day of Angles’, creating ‘angle eaters’ and finding angles in the outdoors. We also learned about food and farming. We learned about dairy farming from Mrs Heuchan and beef and sheep farming from Mrs Welsh. We have learned about democracy, finding out about parliament and the government. We enjoyed learning about tax when we had an activity called ‘The Shoe Trade’. We were in four little businesses and we had to design and sell shoes. We found out about buying and selling and we had to negotiate better prices. Mrs Heuchan & Mrs Turner Halloween was great fun at Dalry Primary School. Pictured are the Primary 3,4,5 class in their scary guises... Glenkens Gazette page 9 CATSTRAND YOUTH ACTIVITIES Our CatStrand youth volunteers did an amazing job setting up a fun Halloween at the park this year. Pizza and hot chocolate were on offer to keep everyone toasty, arts and crafts packs were given out and there were plenty of games and competitions - everyone had a blast! A huge “well done” to all the youth volunteers and a huge thank you to Helen, Toby and Sam who donated their help so generously. We are slowly starting back our regular youth work activities but we don’t have anything bigger planned as of yet. The classes we have currently are: Health, Play & Creative Dance: Mondays, 3:45pm-4:30pm Children’s Grade & Youth Dance: Mondays, 4:30pm-5:30pm Choreoskills: Mondays, 7pm-8:30pm Art Explores (for ages 5-11): Tuesday 24 November, 4.156pm and Tuesday 3 December, 4.156pm We are hoping to start our Sketch and Random Writers clubs back up soon, so watch this space! Jamie Lee Aitken, CatStrand Youth Arts Coordinator Pictured to the right are some of the CatStrand youth volunteer team setting up goodies for the kids to enjoy this Halloween. 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 Glenkens Gazette Halloween in Dalry page 10 This Halloween was like most things recently- strange and spooky. We felt that there needed to be some normality for the community especially for the kids who have endured a lot since the March lockdown, so we decorated the salon and set up a spooky grotto! Thanks to members of the community who bought sweeties or made cakes and helped decorate. Despite a horrid wet night, we managed to give around 50 bags of goodies to cheer happy socially distanced guisers. Jayne & Blair, Hair by Jayne 1st Stewartry Rangers Re-launch We are re-launching and promoting 1st Stewartry Rangers Girl guides, aged 14-18. We are privileged and proud that Girl Guiding can offer the safe space in these confusing and worrying times for young women to do all the great things Rangers do (albeit in a slightly different current way) when many other youth groups and activities have paused. Please, please, please spread the word: we are recruiting Rangers from the wide Stewartry geography (Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie, Kirkcudbright, Bourge, Gatehouse of Fleet, New Galloway, Dalry, etc). We are welcoming members of Guiding (ex-Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and former Rangers) but also keen for new members who have not been in Guiding. Please contact Jan Crooks on 07708 797 423 (or find her on Messenger), Judy Lane on 07966 706 106 or Kirsty Tomlin on 07799 135 990, or raise your interest at www.girlguiding. org.uk/joinus. Jan & Judy, 1st Stewartry Rangers Pictured below left is Jan Crooks with one of the Stewartry Rangers. Glenkens Gazette page 11 PROTECTING OUR SPECIAL PLACES There’s No Place Like Home Trees, turbines, tourists and pastoralism are the main economic forces in the Glenkens that potentially threaten our special places. Nevertheless, with effective community collaboration we can use these industries to enhance all that is precious to us. Historically, special places were far simpler to understand. These were the places that protected us from the invading forces of all nature. These were the places where we stored our food; that protected us from the weather; provided water; provided fuel, and where we felt secure. Simply, our special places were what we called ‘home’. In the modern world with governments, councils and years of economic endeavour, our homes have evolved to be connected in so many ways that we often lose sight of the essence of what is at stake when invasion is imminent. Trees, turbines, tourists and pasture are all potentially seriously damaging to our homes. The story of the Galloway Levellers is testament to the negative forces of pastoralism, while the turbines of the Galloway hydro dams prompted WGM Dobie to write: A raider comes today who kills, The glories of our glens and hills, With unheroic acts and bills and ‘private legislation’. The company promoters pen, Will dam the Deugh and dam the Ken, and dam the Dee - oh damn the men, Who plan such desecration! Trees are notorious for damaging our special places when planning is done with an empty head. However, it is tourism which is now So many of our beautiful rural homes are now headlining as a major polluter. In just ruins. the Galloway News 17 September, MSP Finlay Carson and MSP Emma expected to be proactive in consultation. Harper agreed that the issue of Our homes and our wider ‘home’ are dirty camping is unacceptable. Stuart very special places and they must be Gillespie writes: “There have been a protected from invading forces - natural number of cases of irresponsible behaviour or industrial. To do that we must help the in the countryside in recent months planning authorities approve “The Right with respect to Loch Ken’s experience Development in the Right Place”, by really particularly problematic.” understanding how our houses, gardens, As a society we no longer live in a world services, networks and shared spaces where our homes stop at the garden all work together to create our sense of gate. When an invader desecrates our place; our sense of home. neighbourhood then they desecrate our When one home is sacrificed without home. As I write, a developer is carrying a duty of care, then it is only one more out a major excavation on ground between step to take out a whole community and Carsphairn and the village water supply. one step further to annihilate the whole How many of us really understand where planet. Let us all learn to protect our most our tap water comes from and the type precious place - our home. Fiona Clubb of development work which constitutes a threat? Yet, as individuals, we are THE GARDEN SPOT This is the time of year when I like to ruminate about the garden, review the season and plot any changes for next year. Yes, I know that I still have the pots to scrub, the windows in the greenhouse to wash (to let in as much winter light as possible) and maintenance of tools, etc to carry out, but you don’t want to hear about all of that. And by the time you read this, the seed catalogues for next year will be starting to arrive – I like to get my seeds and plants ordered before new year. What’s new for next year? Well, in the ornamental garden, I have been making a nuisance of myself with a pickaxe (not a common garden tool I know) but it’s handy for getting out shrubs and perennials that aren’t doing well or that I am just fed up with, and it’s great at making space for new gardening adventures. Next year I fancy new cannas, lilies and I might even give ornamental ginger another try. In the veg garden my garlic was not as good as expected this year so, next season, I will try more fertiliser. Also, I plan to make better use of fleece to keep out all sorts of pests (birds, cabbage white butterflies and carrot root fly, etc). I am also going to try growing marrows - very old-fashioned I know but you can always pick them early and use them as courgettes. Many moons ago, an old uncle used to make a dish called ‘poor man’s goose’ which was a marrow peeled and hollowed out then stuffed with wellseasoned cooked mince before being roasted like a joint (baste well). I think I will only really need one plant so others from the packet of seed might find their way into Dalry charity shop. When I first arrived in the Glenkens it seemed that most people only really had flowers in their garden for six months or so in the year. I have always tried my best to have something in flower in the garden every single day of the year; in the twelve months to the end of October, I actually managed it (I confess that I cheated a bit with Fuchsia ‘Mrs Poppel’ still flowering in Novembe pots from the greenhouse). Obviously, the big challenge is to fill the gap between the last of the roses (usually late October) and the arrival of the snowdrops. If you would like to extend the flowers in your garden, here are a few still in flower in my garden in early November: salvia ‘Amisted’, fuchsia ‘Mrs Poppel’ (sheltered spot by a wall) and fuchsia ‘Microphylla’. If you can find a sheltered spot underneath a hedge that gets good sun, then you should get the earliest snowdrops. To fill in the gap between the last of the fuchsias and the first of the bulbs? I’m off to the garden centre to see if I can get hold of a shrub - Viburnum Bodnantense ‘Dawn’. Wish me luck! The Intrepid Gardener Glenkens Gazette page 12 CLIMATE CONVERSATION Dumfries & Galloway is leading Scotland’s response to the climate and environment crisis, with the Glenkens at its heart. Dumfries & Galloway Council’s target of becoming a carbon neutral region by just 2025, and the 12-point plan that supports it, is among the most ambitious local authority targets in the UK as well as internationally. Dougie Campbell, one of our three local councillors in the Dee and Glenkens catchment, is the council’s ‘Environment Champion’ and has been instrumental in driving the region’s recognition of and response to the climate emergency. Below are Dougie’s answers to a few climate related questions: What motivated you to take a lead in driving the council’s response to climate change? Although I was aware of climate change as something that would require us to make changes to how we lived and worked in the future, it was Greta Thunberg and the mobilisation of local young people that really inspired me to bring the issue to the council. I became aware of the potential of Dumfries & Galloway to be at the forefront of becoming carbon neutral because of our rural makeup, existing forestry and hydro systems, and that, along with the increasing concerns voiced by constituents gave me the impetus to take the motion to the full council. Once the First Minister declared a climate emergency for Scotland I knew that Dumfries & Galloway had the opportunity to lead the way. Why is the council target of carbon net zero by 2025 so important? Aside from the necessity for us all to respond to the climate emergency as quickly and effectively as possible, because of our position and the climate commitments we have made Dumfries & Galloway has a unique opportunity to be a shining light in taking local action to tackle a global problem. Galloway in particular should be proud, as individuals, communities and organisations in our area are enabling us to set the standard for the region and the country, something that can be showcased at a global level at the COP26 summit in Glasgow next year. Projects like Climate Ready Loch Ken, the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership and the Southern Ayrshire and Galloway Biosphere are all key drivers along with the active participation of local people. Because of our commitments, Dumfries & Galloway is closely watched at a national level and I hope that our reputation as a region at the forefront of climate action helps us to attract funding and investment from the Scottish Government and other bodies, benefiting the region and increasing our capacity to meet and exceed our environmental targets. There is concern that the pursuit of a carbon neutral target might come at the expense of the local environment, biodiversity and community well-being. It also appears that in some cases the profits and interests of big businesses or private individuals are still being put before our collective long-term future in this area and beyond. How do you respond to this? The Council’s 12-point plan includes a commitment to protect the natural environment and biodiversity and the commitment to be carbon neutral currently recognised as a huge draw of shouldn’t compromise this. There is tourism to the region. We need to find an probably nowhere in the region where this acceptable compromise that enables us is more important than in the Glenkens. to transition to a renewable energy future At the present time I’m working with but this can’t be at the expense of what community representatives on the makes the Glenkens such a wonderful Waterside Hill campaign and supporting place to live, work and visit. their objective to influence policy at a You have mentioned many sleepless regional and national level. There’s no nights, what is the vision that keeps doubt that forestry planting is important you going? to our net zero calculations but careful The ultimate goal is to remove reliance thought needs to be given to the on oil or gas as a society. I see Dumfries wider impacts. The Council is currently & Galloway as a shining light and, being reviewing policy and practice which well placed to meet net zero by 2025 but I will include our Forestry and Woodland think we need to keep moving to become Strategy which was written in conjunction carbon negative. with the Forestry Commission as it then In Dee and Glenkens, I would like to see was known, in 2014. It is really important us become a thriving, multi-generational now that we empower communities and community once again where young give them a meaningful say on planting people see meaningful, sustainable schemes, as we currently have with opportunities to live and work here. I planning applications, so that the possible believe we can build on our responses to adverse impacts on communities, the climate and environment to help make natural environment and biodiversity can this happen. be properly taken into account. We need to be concerned, really The current Scottish Power Energy concerned, by the climate and Networks (SPEN) proposals for the environment situation we face – not to Kendoon to Tongland Reinforcement the extent we feel overwhelmed, but gives me real cause for concern. As we so that we are motivated to take action transition from reliance on fossil fuels now. If we all play our we can contribute which currently warm our homes, fuel significantly to the global effort to halt our travel and power workplaces, to global temperature rise. renewable energy sources we’ll require Mary Smith significantly more electricity than we currently use. This makes upgrading essential but I’m very disappointed The council will soon be launching a that, despite citizens’ panel for action on climate change. recognition of the adverse People from all walks of life and perspectives are needed to environmental join the panel to help understand lived experiences across impact of overhead the region in relation to the current reality and changes lines and how that we seek to bring about – please watch this space and this could be consider getting involved. mitigated by undergrounding, Keep raising concerns and issues with your councillors, MPs this option appears and MSPs all of whom can be contacted direct or via www. to have been writetothem.com ruled out on the basis of additional The council have appointed a Climate Emergency Officer, cost to SPEN. The Sarah Farrell, who encourages using carbon footprint Glenkens is the calculators such as the one at www.footprint.wwf.org.uk, beating heart of thinking outside the box and knowing that you are supported Galloway and the when it comes to climate action. Sarah emphasises: “we’re proposed route for all in this together – the more people who are involved, the the overhead lines more confidence is increased and the greater impact we have will run straight on the carbon footprint.” To get in touch email sarah.farrell@ through Galloway dumgal.gov.uk Forest, which is ACTION Glenkens Gazette page 13 The Optimistic Environmentalist In this series, I hope to bring up ideas that we could all do, include a few facts about the environment and probably moan. For instance why do they make kettles with cheap plastic switches so that the kettle fails every 18 months - I’ve just answered myself! If anyone’s got any contributions, please contact the Gazette (details on the back page). In this first article, we’ll take a brief look at Sellotape and some alternatives. Have you heard of paper tape? At this time of year, we are using so much plastic-based Sellotape (other brands are available!) on our Christmas presents. Running out the other day, I thought it was about time I put my money where my mouth is and tried paper tape as an alternative. Unfortunately it’s brown - because it’s unbleached paper - not a problem normally but a few people I know would say something. Thus I also got some ‘washi’ tape to stick over it which is decorated. Washi tapes are made of traditional Japanese paper and are biodegradable. Washi is not strong enough to hold the paper on its own but it makes my present look interesting. I got both my paper tape and washi tape from www.andkeep.com but they are widely available elsewhere. Alternatively, you could decorate the paper tape yourself or simply be proud of what it is! Still not convinced? An article published in 2018 estimated Britons would use 6 million rolls of plastic tape over the festive period. Plastic tape cannot be recycled and makes recycling of the paper to which it’s attached extremely difficult or impossible. Now, rather than spending all of Boxing Day tearing off the Sellotape before recycling the tons of Christmas paper we produce, it can go straight in to the recycling bin while we have an extra mince pie or start those exercises to lose the Christmas weight. Denise MacDonald-Kiernan Mochrum Fell Wind Farm Update A quick update on the Mochrum Fell wind farm application, situated in the parish of Parton and near Corsock. An application was submitted to Dumfries & Galloway planning department for seven wind turbines, each 149.9 metres tall (40m taller than the current Blackcraig turbines). These would be situated on Mochrum Fell, on the skyline of the highest trig point in the area, and visible from the A75, A712, A713 and most of the Loch Ken area. Combined with new applications and proposals, if this proposal goes ahead there would be 84 turbines in the Corsock/Parton area. Members of the community are voicing concerns as they feel the lasting detriment to the area of such a large number of turbines and their necessary infrastructure would be too great. Trevor & Elaine Procter, Mochrum Fell summit trig point © Fife Flyer www.walkhighlands.co.uk Meikle Mochrum Glenkens Gazette page 14 Glenkens Gazette page 15 Glenkens Gazette page 16 Glenkens Gazette page 17 Taking our Community Action Plan to the Next Stage The Glenkens & District Community Action Plan published in September was commissioned by the Glenkens & District Trust and is intended as a road map for the whole community over the next five years and beyond. While the distribution of the Blackcraig wind farm community fund was a key driver to initiating the plan, its reach is wider than projects funded through that source. The overall goal is that ‘the Glenkens and district will be a connected, resilient and carbon neutral place, where people will want to live, work and visit, to bring up their families, and to grow old. It will be somewhere that other places in Scotland will look to for inspiration.’ Four clear themes emerged from the community consultations: • A connected community • An asset-rich community • An economically flourishing community • A carbon neutral community The plan can be accessed at https:// www.foundationscotland.org.uk/ media/1132369/Glenkens-CommunityAction-Plan-2020 We are now pleased to be moving into the implementation phase. With COVID-19 and other factors and variables, we felt 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 that there was a need for a planning year and are delighted, following an open tender process, that Community Enterprise have been appointed to take forward this work. They will use the valuable experience they gained from working on the Community Action Plan and from working on community development with other rural communities right across Scotland. They will supplement this experience by engaging Sleeping Giants, a social business rooted in this area with extensive experience in community work, to support them. This process will run until the end of March 2021. This time will be used to prepare early ideas for funding, take time to learn from the local response to COVID-19 and prepare the way for years two to five. Though, due to COVID-19 restrictions, it will be by phone and videoconference, Community Enterprise will be very visible in our community over the coming weeks and months. They will be encouraging and supporting early projects to develop, which may ultimately seek to apply funding. They will be preparing the ground for some of the more ambitious projects in the longer term and will review the impact of COVID-19 on our community. They will manage and host the first Glenkens Summit in February 2021, a gathering of people and agencies across the whole rural area. This will all lead to a review of the action plan before we embark on years two to five. We are delighted to see the next phase of our plan roll out so keep an eye on social media and local press for news of developments, and please make contact if you have any thoughts, comments or 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 ideas you would like to input. We are also looking for three or four volunteers to join the existing working group that will assist with overseeing the consultation, reviewing the plan as it develops and attending some meetings with Community Enterprise. At this stage we’re not looking for a huge commitment – the working group will be in place for around six months until the reviewed plan is published, and expect to have five or six meetings in that time. We would also like to form a long-term steering group to monitor and review the implementation of the plan. Please contact us if you are interested in being involved and we can provide more information. In conclusion, when we published the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan we recognised that our community needed support to deliver on its aspirations, so we are delighted that Community Enterprise are now on board to help us all to make progress. We look forward to working with them and with people from all across our community to push these ambitious projects forward. For further information, please contact Douglas Westwater from Community Enterprise at douglas@ communityenterprise.co.uk or on 07989 306 374 or Fiona Smith, chairman of Glenkens & District Trust, at fiona. smith1@btinternet.com Fiona Smith, GDT Glenkens Gazette page 18 I was really interested to read Paul Goodwin’s article in the October/ November edition of the Gazette, looking at the lives of people who lived in the Glenkens, and died in WW2. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) recently launched its ‘Eyes On, Hands On’ project, and is currently recruiting volunteers in Scotland. I was delighted to be appointed as volunteer co-ordinator in March, for central and south Scotland, but the project was temporarily halted due to COVID-19. To ensure everyone is as safe as possible, we are restricting our activities to Eyes On. Trained volunteers are visiting their local graveyards and cemeteries, across Britain and checking the scattered graves of the casualties of both world wars. That’s over 12,500 sites and over 160,000 graves, with ninety eight of these in Dumfries & Galloway. The condition of headstones is reported, records are checked for accuracy, photos are taken and stories discovered and shared. This will prepare us well for the Hands On part of the project which will involve further training for light maintenance (clearing and cleaning) where necessary. Any headstones needing professional attention are being identified and referred to our regional team of stonemasons and craftsmen. CWGC will be 104 years old next year, and we have recently commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain and the 75th anniversary of VE Day. It is not very long ago that we commemorated the 100th anniversary of the end of World War One. If any Gazette readers would like to be part of the ‘Eyes On, Hands On’ project, to continue honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice, please visit www.cwgc.org and follow the link ‘Volunteer for Us’ to find more information, and enrol. Anne Barclay, Commonwealth War Graves Commission - 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 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 19 Dalry’s River Embankment Questions are sometimes asked as to when the river embankments were constructed to protect against flooding in the Glenkens. There is a tradition that some of these embankments were constructed by French prisoners of war during the time of the Napoleonic wars. I have not found any written confirmation of this, though when metal detecting just south of the barrage at Glenlochar, close to the embankment there, I found a bronze imitation of a 1799 Spanish silver dollar with a hole through it. It had been given a silver coating and clearly had been worn as a medallion round the neck, and very likely could have belonged to a French soldier who had fought in the Peninsular war. However the Earlstoun papers held in Callendar House, up near Falkirk, provide evidence that the embankment at Dalry was constructed earlier than this. In July 1779 John Newall of Barskeoch initiated a court case against the Earl of Galloway and his agent, Archibald Douglas, merchant in Dalry, in protest at their construction of an embankment along the Dalry side of the river beside the churchyard. Newall claimed it interfered with his ferry service across the river there, as the passage of carriages was obstructed by the new, high embankment that was being constructed. It led to all further work being halted and to a protracted court case which was only finally settled before the Lords of Council and Session up in Edinburgh in 1785. But before that both parties presented their cases before a Commission in 1781, calling numerous witnesses and resulting in about 50 pages of hand-written minutes which record the submissions for each side in the case. These court minutes provide a fascinating record of life in the Dalry area in the 18th century and introduce us to some of the individuals who played a part in the life of the village in those far-off days. One of the key witnesses was Alexander McMillan, aged 60, late tenant of the Holm of Dalry, who had lived all his life in Dalry until he moved to Auchengibbert at Crocketford in 1779. He had been tenant of the Holm of Dalry for over 20 years and declared that the lands of the Holms of Dalry, Stewarton and Grennan were the Earl of Galloway’s most valuable lands in the Glenkens. However, flooding was a problem and large floods would regularly cover much of the flat valley floor. He said that an earlier embankment had been made around 1751 about 10 yards further from the river than the newly erected one. However it was of a slender construction and had been carried off by the first flood. A couple of years later a slightly more substantial embankment was constructed, but it also was swept away by the floods. A short while after he took up the tenancy of the farm he himself had constructed a more substantial embankment in 1761 where the earlier embankments had been. However about two years later a very high flood breached it and a substantial flow of water eroded a channel through the fields, creating the pool on the plan near the churchyard. He had intended to fill in that pool and repair the breach in the embankment, but John Newall had objected, saying it blocked off the road to the ferry along the side of the churchyard. After that breach had been made his houses on the Holm of Dalry were regularly flooded up to a depth of two feet in his dwelling house, and his stock yards and barn were also flooded causing him considerable loss. The final straw came with the exceptional flood at harvest time 1778, after which he resolved to move to a new place. Another witness, James Douglas, aged 36, Archibald’s brother, living at Kirkstyle, said that the houses on the Holm of Dalry that regularly flooded were demolished by his brother after Alexander McMillan left the farm. My next article will be on the river crossing at Dalry, with information on the operation of the ferry, on the transportation of animals and even coffins across, and on the swimming of stock across the river. Then following that a further article on routes usually followed and the road network around Dalry. Pictured above is the 1781 map of the river crossings at Dalry and of the newly constructed embankment. Also pictured is a photograph I took on 30 December 2015 which shows the embankment being overtopped around the same place it would have been breached in the 1700s when the river found a course down through the fields. David Bartholomew Glenkens Gazette page 20 GLENKENS PLACE NAMES: PART VII I would first like to apologise to my attentive readers for an error in Glenkens Place-Names No 6. The editor has been inundated by folks contacting her to point out that according to the rules of Gaelic grammar, Am Beinne Naoimh ‘the sacred mountain, or Blackcraig should of course have read A’ Bheinn Naoimh, beinn being a feminine noun. It is gratifying to realise so many readers in the Glenkens are tuned in to the niceties of Gaelic Grammar! Today I’d like to consider place-names relating to a few farms and other features that seem to have disappeared from the present day mapping. Maybe some of our attentive readers will be able to provide more information about some of them? There are so many abandoned and lost settlements in the Glenkens that we will need to return to this topic in later Gazettes as well. The first is a settlement, no doubt a farm or croft that features on Blaeu’s Gallovidia map, surveying for which took place around 1590. This place is called Stronmaklock which is clearly Sron Muclaich, ‘piggery nose or promontory’. Sron is the word for nose in Gaelic, one of many words for parts of the body that are used figuratively for landscape features. Herbert Maxwell lists two places (one in Anwoth, the other in Inch parishes) called Drummuckloch, Druim Muclaich, ‘piggery ridge’. In these examples, another body part, druim, ‘back’ is used to denote a ridge. This word was borrowed into Galloway Scots as ‘drum’ with the same meaning. In the Galloway and Carrick former Gàidhealtachd there are still around three hundred current placenames incorporating druim as the generic element. Anyway, where was Sron Muclaich? Its position on the Blaeu map shows it as being on an un-named burn between Park and Glenly. Glenly is not Glenlee House, that location was formerly Park. The valley that was called An Gleann Liath ‘the grey glen’ or possibly Gleann Laoigh ‘calf/fawn glen’ is the one occupied (unsurprisingly) by the Glenlee Burn – the Glenly farm shown on the map must be what is now Glenlee Mains, at the entrance to the Garroch Glen. Sron Muclaich is also shown to be east of Kraginbae - present day Craigenbay from Creag na Beithe ‘rock of the birch’ or perhaps Creagan Beithe, ‘birch rocks’. So it looks very like Sron Muclaich was situated up the Craigshinnie Glen, close to the burn of that name. In fact the position looks very close to the abandoned farmstead of Craigshinnie, Creag Sionnaich, ‘fox rock’, there being a noticable cliff face here, high up the Gatehill Road. Craigshinnie farmhouse was abandoned on afforestation of its former farmland and fell into ruin before being demolished by the Forestry Commission about thirty years ago. The OS 1st edition 6’’ map of around 1850 shows another former farmstead near Craigshinnie, called Craigend (in ruins by that date). This is a Scots place-name, the ‘end of the cliff or rock’ (creag again being borrowed into the local Scots dialect from Gaelic) and is probably the best candidate to the location of Sron Muclaich. Unfortunately all trace of this former farmstead has been obliterated by forestry operations. Not far away from where I believe Sron Muclaich to have been located the settlement of Gaits appears on the Blaeu map. This place appears as Ballingait and Ballengat in charters An Labharan, the wee chatterer. in the sixteenth century. These forms indicate that the place-name was Baile an Geata, ‘farmstead of the gate’. A ruined farm called Upper Gate was shown on the OS 1st edition 6’’ map around 1850. This was roughly on the other side of the Gaithill Road from the Forestry warehouse complex. Gate Flow was also shown as the name of a moss there, nowadays this area has been clearfelled and is rapidly regenerating into a birch wood. Gate Lane is a small burn that flows east from the area where the farm of Baile an Geata must have been, eventually joining the Knocknairling Burn. Another habitation and place-name that has disappeared from modern maps is Lairglauren, shown on the Blaeu map as on the west shore of Loch Ken and between another farmstead deserted by 1850 named Clone, (Klon on Blaeu) probably A’ Chluain, ‘the meadow’ although claon ‘slope’ is also possible (now commemorated in the name Clone Burn) and Bennan. Bennan is derived from beinnean and is a diminutive of beinn, implying a subsidiary mountain. It was also borrowed from Gaelic into local Scots. Lairglauren is shown as Lowran Castle on the OS 1st ed. 6’’ map and is situated beside the Lowran Burn as it tumbles into Loch Ken at the place now known as The Twin Brigs. This place-name is clearly derived from Learg ‘a hillslope’ and the burn name, Lowran, itself from labhar, ‘speaking loudly’ giving us a diminutive in Labharan. I like to think of this meaning ‘the wee noisy chatterer’. The burn certainly makes a lot of noise when in spate. There is another similarly named burn in Kells parish, the Lowring Burn that falls precipitously down between Benbrack (A’ Bheinn Bhreac, ‘the speckled mountain’) and Cairnsmore or Blackcraig of Dee (An Càrnas Mòr, ‘the big cairn shaped hill). This Lowring Burn rises in a corrie on the south-east side of Cairnsmore of Dee called Corluckie which may be A’ Choire Leacach, ‘flagstone corrie’. Yet another Louran Burn tumbles down the north-west slopes of another An Càrnas Mòr ‘Cairnsmore of Fleet’ and into the Pol an Iubhair ‘burn of the yew tree’or Palnure. What all of these burns have in common apart from the similarity of their names is their steepness and noisyness. Michael Ansell, Cars Fèarna Glenkens Gazette page 21 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN How Many Scottish Words for Snaw? If you ever watch TV you will know that Christmas this year started in September, presumably somebody’s misbegotten attempt to cheer us all up while actually achieving the opposite. The winter festival - also known as Yule, Yuletide, Yuletime, Yuleseason or Yulefest - formally ends on 1 January, eleven days after the December solstice. Doubtless Easter will begin the next day... Our much appreciated editor suggested a festive contribution this issue, so I thought I would donate something about the culture of Christmas as reflected mainly in Scots words. I was delighted to discover that Scots actually used the word ‘Merry’ (probably by mistake!), variously miry, meary, moeri, myrry, meaning cheerful, happy, carefree, gay, joyful, jolly and pleased, as far back as the time of Robert Bruce! Everyone has learned at some time that the Inuit – the people of the Arctic, formerly called the Eskimo – have over fifty words for snow. Researchers for the Dictionary of the Scots Language, or as you and I might prefer Dictionar o the Scots Leid, remarkably have found some 421 Scots words for snow. I expected, by way of comparison, that they would also have found 1,000 words for rain but in fact they are much scarcer. That said, snaw-words were often used for rain. For example, smirr might describe fine rain, drizzle, sleet or snow. The dictionary folk very effectively quote Wittgenstein: “The limits of my language are the limits of my world. All I know is what I have words for”. We can learn a lot about people not just from their accents and speech mannerisms but also from the words they use, especially perhaps when these words seem in danger of redundancy. The Historical Thesaurus of Scots (which, like the dictionaries, is now available online) mentions two types of snow: ‘dry drift’ which is a powdery snow, and ‘skalva’ which is a soft, flaky snow. Snow-smoor – suffocation by snow, whether of animals or people, has unfortunately been no stranger to the Glenkens on various occasions. The thesaurus defines at least twenty-two terms used to describe snowflake, such as flaffin, flaucht, flauchin, flauchter, flechin, fleuk, flicht, flok, snaw-flake and snaw-flauchen. Whether or not these terms are understood to refer to snowflakes is contextual, which means they sometimes refer to other objects such as dust. Figgerin and flitcher both refer to a ‘light snow-flake’. Flichter is a small particle, for example, of snow. Spitters refers to small drops or flakes of wind-driven rain or snow. Blett, flag, flagin, flukra, skelf, skovin all refer to a large snowflake. A snowball is sna(w)-ba(w), snawball and snawie-ba. Slete, sneet, flup and sleek are all straightforward synonyms for sleet, as are flush, lapper, sleesh and spleiter for slush. There are at least 21 descriptors of sleet and slush and there are many The wintry west extends his blast, And hail and rain does blaw; Or the stormy north sends driving forth The blinding sleet and snaw: While, tumbling brown, the burn comes down, And roars frae bank to brae; And bird and beast in covert rest, And pass the heartless day. Robert Burns Lizanne Henderson © Padeapix others for light snowfalls and thin snow coverings. This is a very rich field. Those who used these words had an encyclopedic knowledge of their natural surroundings, employing a tight technical language to describe them, as well as to preserve their thoughts and philosophies, as in “The snau is ane congelit rane”. Intimacy is obvious in the utterance, “the winter tyid [time] quhen baith rane, snaw, etc...fell apoun your bair tender heid” and one of the most touching “To grant that man hes vill [will] and say it is not frie . . . is als absurd as . . . saying the snau is blak. For libertie is als inseparable from vill as quhitnes from snau”. Many other examples are close to proverbial: “As the snaw meltis from the sone [sun] away, Sa from his sicht the wickit sall decay”. Robert De Bruce Trotter, who for a while resided at Dalshangan, was very keen on the Scots language. He always looked forward to “wunter” as he called it, the curling season, of channel stanes and bonspeils. All, irrespective of wealth, occupation or position, met together at the “roarin game”. Toddy suppers and sometimes dinners followed the contests, inebriated players assuring their wives that they “wusna ony drunker nor the minister”. Women often curled as well, one of the first sports to actually promote, or at least permit, gender equality. Snaw was annually expected and ice especially welcomed. There were serious problems in 1674 during the “Thirteen Drifty Days” when thousands of sheep in this area were killed in snow storms. There was a similar disastrous event in the “Gonial Blast” when it was said that between Crawfordmuir and the Border seventeen shepherds perished and upwards of thirty were taken home insensible. The total sheep losses were incalculable. The Blast was named for gonial or braxy, which described mutton fit for human consumption although not slaughtered with the knife. Such meat was smoked and dried for storage. SR Crockett combined both of these weather events in The Raiders, though he did not make as much of them as he might have done. Some of you will remember the snows of 1947 and 1963. Even in the present calamitous times it is useful to remember that however bad things are now, they have often been much worse in the past. Merry Yule! Ted Cowan Glenkens Gazette GLENKENS MUSINGS Glenkens Musings is a new section in which James Wallace mulls over elements of life in the Glenkens and beyond. James says: “I’m 18 years old and I come from a farming background. I live on a farm up in the hills past Dalry. I’ve worked at the CatStrand for three years and am very much a people person.” 2020 is not a year I can imagine looking back on with happiness and pleasure. In fact, there are not a lot of things that I can say have gone right within the year, as I’m sure you’ll agree. The year sadly started with the horrendous bushfires in Australia that spread rapidly through the south coast of the country which killed thousands of animals and destroyed many lives. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced that they were stepping down from their duties as senior royals, explaining that they wanted to live a more financially independent life. This causes mixed reactions and opinions towards the couple from the Royal Family and the UK public. We heard about the devastating news of the deaths of the NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gigi, as seven others were killed in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California. And finally, and in no means least, the world was introduced to the life-destroying and global coronavirus pandemic, COVID-19. It is quite fair to say it feels that this year couldn’t get any worse but honestly - at the risk of sounding rather pessimistic - I wouldn’t be in the least surprised if it did. However, to look at the current situation as a whole, I’m extremely happy and thankful to see that the Glenkens has came through this pandemic relatively unscathed and unharmed. I know the challenges haven’t been easy for any one of us and we’ve had to adapt to a new normal extremely quickly, but overall we seem to have made it this far fairly in tact. I think what the majority of people want now out of this year is a nice, ‘normal’ Christmas with all our friends and family. Unfortunately, due to the circumstances, sadly this may well not happen. However, I saw something rather funny recently in which someone said: “I think the only way to do Christmas this year is to kill the turkey, and have 30 people over for the funeral!”. My sister read this and jokingly said: “Quite a dark funeral when we all start eating the body!” page 22 In conclusion, I am a firm believer that there is light at the end of the tunnel and that we will defeat this virus. I am sure that this time next year things will be back to a somewhat normal existence, and that we can all go back to living our regular day-to-day lives, hopefully minus the facemasks. I just want to say that I’m incredibly grateful that the population of the Glenkens has come together to support one another through these hard times. I think we are all stronger because of it, and that now there is nothing we cannot deal and cope with. So finally, I want to be the first to say, I hope you all have a very Happy Christmas and I wish you all the best for the new year, because I’m 100% positive that it will be more enjoyable and clearer than 2020. James Wallace Glenkens Gazette page 23 Local Author’s Twentieth Novel Novelist John Dean has seen his twentieth crime novel break into print. John, whose first novel was published in 2005, is the creator of detective chief inspectors John Blizzard and Jack Harris. He is with London-based The Book Folks, which has published many of his novels including the latest, Kill Shot. His sales with The Book Folks have topped 90,000 ebooks and paperbacks and another 90,000 read in the Kindle library. The writer, 59, who moved to Dumfries & Galloway from Darlington three years ago, retired after 40 years as a journalist in March 2020 in order to concentrate more fully on his writing. Kill Shot plunges Jack Harris into a scenario where the shooting of a birdwatcher on the North Pennines not only challenges his view of an old friendship but also turns out to have national and international ramifications. John, who specialised in crime reporting during his award-winning journalistic career, said: “Like all crime novelists, I am fascinated by the dark side of the human personality and the way that it drives people to step over the line of what is deemed to be acceptable behaviour. “Every time I sit down with a blank screen, wondering what my next novel will be about, something will trigger an idea and the author in me has to follow the story until it has been told.” John, whose novels regularly feature on the Amazon best-seller lists, is also a creative writing tutor and has participated in the CatStrand creative writing workshops as well as running online courses, including crime fiction, throughout COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. For further details, you can visit https://johndean.ning.com Windy Rig Wind Farm Progress Update ONSITE PROGRESS We have been making some great progress onsite despite the weather we have encountered over the past couple of months. The works along the B729 are continuing following the surfacing of the new passing places and we are working on the last stretches of the widening works to allow the delivery of the turbine components to start in the New Year. thousands of delivery waggons off the local road network. OFFSITE PROGRESS Offsite works are progressing on the blade laydown area to the south of Carsphairn. Over the coming weeks we will commence work on the access junction with traffic management installed on the A713 to provide safe access for pedestrians. MESSAGING SERVICE Are you a regular user of the B729 or C35? Receive text messages to be told about any large deliveries or additional activity on the route to our site. Contact Doug Wilson if you would like to be added, doug. wilson@statkraft.com or call 07542 754 642. For up to date information on construction progress, visit www.statkraft.co.uk/windyrig Onsite we have completed the main spine road for the wind farm and the concrete for 8 out of the 12 turbine bases has been poured with the remaining 4 bases due to be completed in the next few weeks. By sourcing stone from within the site and producing concrete onsite with our concrete plant we have taken Advertisement Widening works along the C35 Glenkens Gazette page 24 SOUNDS LIKE KNOCKENGORROCH Knockengorroch Festival has announced the release of a lockdown album, Sounds Like Knockengorroch, featuring 20 tracks from artists who performed at Virtually Knockengorroch – an interactive livestream of the festival held in May 2020. One of Scotland’s longest-running greenfield festivals, Knockengorroch is normally held in the beautifully secluded Carsphairn hills every May, bringing an exciting array of traditional, electronic and world music acts to the Glenkens hills. Due to COVID-19, the event’s 2020 edition was cancelled and organisers put on an online festival in its place. Despite being hosted digitally, Virtually Knockengorroch embodied the authentic, participatory nature of the event, with attendees able to interact with the performances via Zoom. Following its success, organisers decided to pay tribute to the festival’s unique atmosphere, and the feelings of community and connection it evokes, by capturing the sounds of the festival in a specially curated album. The 20-track double CD includes donated recordings from an inspiring mix of folk, world and electronic music acts who were part of the virtual celebration earlier this year including two tracks written in honour of Knockengorroch and another three recorded for the first time for the album. Knockengorroch Festival organiser, Liz Holmes, said: “Virtually Knockengorroch was a way for us to share the sounds and feelings of the event with our loyal audiences and to lift their spirits during lockdown. Our festival is known for its sense of togetherness and solidarity, and this is what this lockdown album also projects. “It was incredible to receive such thoughtful and emotive original songs dedicated to the festival from some of our favourite musicians for this record, and to receive contributions from so many much-loved acts. It’s an joy to be able to combine the work of all of these artists on one album and mark their contribution to Knockengorroch over the years. With acts not able to get out there and play live we wanted to champion their art and lift this up.” 2020 would have been the 34th edition of Knockengorroch which first launched in 1998. The Knockengorroch lockdown album, Sounds Like Knockengorroch, will be released on double CD and available to download and stream from 4 December. Glenkens Gazette page 25 Join the UNESCO Biosphere Board In July 2012 Galloway and Southern Ayrshire was formally recognised as a world class environment for people and nature. The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organisation) Biosphere was the first in Scotland to achieve this status, and is part of a family of over 700 Biospheres around the world. This title is the only global accreditation for an area demonstrating excellence in sustainable development. The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere covers 5,268 square kilometers, recognising the amazing wildlife, landscapes and culture of south west Scotland, and the commitment of its communities and businesses to live and work more sustainably. With a strong focus on sustainability, a commitment to facing up to the challenges of the climate emergency and biodiversity loss, and the opportunity to play a key role in supporting a post-COVID ‘green recovery’, the Biosphere designation is very much of its time. Guided by a partnership board comprising representatives from public agencies, private businesses, local communities and environmental nongovernmental organisations, our Biosphere has delivered a significant level of activity, working towards sustainability outcomes and maximising the use of a minimal budget and only 1.5 full time staff. That team is now set to grow significantly, with the recent announcement of £1.9 million of funding support and recognition by the new South of Scotland Enterprise agency that the Biosphere has the potential to become a ground breaking catalyst, bringing together communities, businesses, land owners and individuals to help achieve a significant ‘green recovery’. The Biosphere’s key priorities for delivery over the next five years are focused on how we can support and integrate the sustainability agenda into all of our lives, benefitting communities, businesses, landowners, land managers and individuals. These key priorities include: • Delivery of practical marketing and branding projects to raise the profile, understanding, physical presence and economic value of the international UNESCO Biosphere brand to both locals and visitors • Expanding and promoting the Biosphere Certification Mark to include new business sectors, offering them specialist advice and support in sustainability best practice. • Creation of a specialist team who can offer guidance and support to land managers in the development and delivery of biodiversity and land management projects to add value through conservation, learning and sustainable land use • Developing the Biosphere Communities Scheme to support community level networking, collaboration, learning, discovery and new community based sustainability projects • Contributing to the Coalfield Communities Landscape Partnership Project. Critical to its success is having an active and engaged Biosphere Partnership Board who can share their knowledge, expertise and networks to help our UNESCO Biosphere grow. So we are keen to expand membership of the board and would actively welcome approaches from potential new members who share the Biosphere ethos and can bring with them skills and expertise in areas such as corporate sponsorship, sustainable forestry, climate change and community development. The partnership board meet quarterly – normally these meetings revolve around locations in East Ayrshire, South Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway, although currently due to COVID-19 they are all held online. They normally last for a morning and are occasionally followed by a presentation on a topic relevant to the work of the Biosphere. If you would be interested in joining the board please contact Ed Forrest ed@ gsabiosphere.org.uk For more information on the Biosphere current job vacancies please go to www. gsabiosphere.org.uk Ed Forest CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITIES The new Connecting in Communities Project (CiC) is a month old now and already well up and running. It’s still managed by Brian Jones and Chris Jowsey, but now based at the Smiddy in Balmaclellan and busy recruiting for a third member of the team. There’s a fantastic opportunity for the right person to join us as volunteering, capacity building & community resilience officer to develop a Glenkens-wide volunteering strategy and help roll out the Glenkens Community Action Plan. Thanks to a National Lottery award from The National Lottery Community Fund, Connecting in Communities has now started a new, exciting, twoyear project. Based at The Smiddy in Balmaclellan, we’re still featuring loads of your favourite groups and activities, mainly on Zoom, but we now have some ‘in person’ sessions too, COVID-secure of course! Monday afternoon is the Margaret Morris Movement Adult Dance with Sara Lockwood and the self-led Tai Chi group is socially distancing on a Wednesday afternoon, all made possible thanks to National Lottery players! Lifelong-learning is a key driver for the new project and The Smiddy is a fabulous venue for a whole host of related activities. Check out our giant SmartScreen, pictured with James from Computerfixer in Dumfries and Brian during installation; this is one of the main legacy items made possible by our friends at LEADER, an absolutely stunning piece of kit with huge educational potential. Also, look out in the new year for our CiC liveried electric vehicle, a sevenseat, fully accessible Nissan, which will be managed by Galloway Community Transport and available to support the wider Glenkens communities. We’re always looking for new things and the COVID age has brought a myriad The new SmartScreen, pictured with James from Computerfixer in Dumfries (left) and Brian Jones. of changes to our lives; so instead of the Photography Group’s exhibition gracing the walls at CatStrand, it’s now online, viewable via the CatStrand’s website, www.catstrand.com. Our writing group, Write On, managed by Margaret Elphinstone, have just published a new book, WriteDown, about local experiences during lockdown. Copies are available at CatStrand and it’s well worth a read or even as a Christmas present (see article on p6). We are also delighted to have teamed up with local yoga teacher, Amy Fowler, to bring you Winter Wellbeing a 90-day movement challenge during December, January and February. Exercise and movement are well documented in the relief of stress and helping improve mood and wellbeing, so why not be kind to yourself and join in - it’s easy and it’s free. Check out our Facebook page or CatStrand’s web pages for details. The new project will have more of a focus on helping groups become selfsufficient, and getting new ones started, so if you have an idea, that’ll help enhance our community, please get in touch - Brian and Chris would love to hear from you. To find out more call 01644 420 274 or email brian@catstrand.com or chris@ catstrand.com Chris & Brian Glenkens Gazette Bright Stars Over the last couple of weeks I was among those who cleared the last of the toys, equipment, pictures and paperwork from Bright Stars nursery. I would like to offer thanks to the happy, loving and creative place it clearly was - to all the children who first met, played and explored there together, to all the staff and their dedication, and to those who have given so much of their time and energy over the years to make it happen. May the building always hold the happy memories of children’s play, and may we continue to hear happy childhood laughter across the Glenkens as things change and move on. MS page 26 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 Glenkens Gazette page 27 KEY GLENKENS CONTACTS Local Doctors’ Surgery Food Deliveries Glenkens Medical Practice - 01644 420 234 • Galloway Foodbank - 07730 788 335 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: Will Adam - 01644 430 338 • Mossdale: Shop - 01644 450 281 • New Galloway: Sam Rushton 07741 656 601 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 • 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 Many events and activities are still on hold at the time of going to print due to COVID-19. Please check government guidelines for up-to-date information on social activities during December & January. GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Glenkens Community Shop: Contact Shirley McNaught on 07955 743 022 or drop by the charity shop on Main Street, Dalry Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact Ros Hill on ros.hill@rathanhouse.co.uk Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Andi Holmes on andiholmes@hotmail.com or 07729 292 126 Dalry Town Hall: Contact Jim Reid on 01644 430231 or jamescreid@hotmail.co.uk Glenkens Community Centre: Contact Carylann Williamson on williamsoncarylann@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact Sam Rushton on 07741 656601 or samCEW@newgallowaycommunity.shop or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins on 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 Bright Stars - Glenkens Community Nursery: Contact glenkenscommunitynursery@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie on 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: Apart from Remembrance Sunday, we will be holding just one Church of Scotland service each Sunday. Videos will continue to be posted on youtube, accessed by typing ‘Balmaclellan, Kells and Dalry with Carsphairn’ into the youtube search box. Sunday Services: Balmaclellan 11am: 6 Dec & 3 Jan; Carsphairn 11am: 13 Dec, 10 Jan & 31 Jan; Kells 11am: 20 Dec, 27 Dec & 17 Jan; Dalry 11am: 24 Jan Special Services & Events: Christmas Watchnight Service: 11.30pm, Dalry Church. Christmas Day Family Service: 11am, Carsphairn Church Videos will continue to be posted on YouTube, accessed by typing ‘Balmaclellan, Kells and Dalry with Carsphairn’ into the YouTube search box. For further information call Rev David Bartholomew on 01644 430 380. SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: St Margaret’s, New Galloway: Sunday Eucharists have re-started, 10.30am. For information call Pam Swift on 01644 420467. 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 28 Celebrating James Clerk Maxwell Did you know that the father of colour photography is buried at Parton Kirk? James Clerk Maxwell died in 1879 but all around the globe we use modern technologies based on his discoveries. His electromagnetic theory is considered to have paved the way for both quantum mechanics and Einstein’s theory of special relativity. Above is one of the competition entries, Loch Ken Ice Eye by Sarah Donovan. This winter, Parton has been celebrating this local figure and his amazing legacy with a There were two categories - ‘A Glenkens Winter’ for the community photography competition and exhibition. Hop under 18s, and ‘Glenkens: Light & Colour’ for the over online to see the entries in a virtual gallery at https:// 18s. The two winning photographs in each category will be maxwellphoto2020.wixsite.com/gallery or pop down printed in the next edition of the Glenkens Gazette. to Parton Village Hall car park to see the shortlisted For further information please email maxwellphoto2020@ photographs being displayed in an outdoor exhibition gmail.com during the Christmas holidays. 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 FEB/MAR COPY DEADLINE: 5 JAN Design & co-ordination: Sarah Ade sarah.ade@gmail.com Printing: www.instantprint.co.uk 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 February/March 2021 ISSUE 122 FREE Glenkens Community Summit The first ever Glenkens Community Summit will be a highprofile event bringing together visions for the future of the Glenkens from folk across all of our communities. The focus of the summit will be the areas highlighted in the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan (CAP), published last year, which is a roadmap for the whole community over the next five years with the goal that “the Glenkens and district will be a connected, resilient and carbon neutral place, where people will want to live, work and visit, to bring up their families, and to grow old”. You can find a copy of the plan in your local village shop or online by searching for 'Glenkens Community Action Plan'. The event will take place on 2 March at 7pm and, due to COVID-19, will be virtual. The first year of progressing with the CAP - the implementation phase - is well under way, creating the foundation on which future activities will be built. Since the last Gazette update, national organisation Community Enterprise has been appointed to take forward this work with local body Sleeping Giants. Work has been ongoing since September to get things moving in relation to the four thematic areas, and funding for this has been provided through Blackcraig Community Fund. Continued on p10... Our Biosphere Gains Momentum It’s exciting news to hear that the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire (GAS) UNESCO Biosphere has been awarded £1.9 million to deliver a range of objectives throughout the area. Garroch Glen Shepherds' Huts, one of the local businesses under the UNESCO Biosphere Certification Scheme, with business owner Carylann Williamson at the helm. A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative With everyone now familiar with the positive impact funded projects such as the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership have had in the Glenkens, we can be confident that this will mean positive change in many ways. A key area in which the Biosphere will be focussing is in expanding their team, initially with six employment opportunities, then over time increasing by another six. Also exciting is that the Biosphere team plan to make their base in the Glenkens see article on p9 for more on this. With the fantastic announcement of funding support from the South of Scotland Enterprise agency, along with recognition that the Biosphere has the potential to become a groundbreaking catalyst in bringing together communities, businesses, land owners and individuals to help achieve a significant ‘green recovery’, things are set to gain a lot more momentum. Continued on p7... This Gazette has been delivered door-to-door thanks to support from the Loch Ken Trust www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 Fancy Joining the GCAT Board? Most readers of the Gazette will have an idea of the role that the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) plays within our Glenkens communities. Some of the projects under GCAT’s umbrella are: • CatStrand • Balmaclellan Smiddy • Connecting in Communities • CatStrand Youth Arts • Galloway Community Transport • Glenkens Gazette • Watson Birds Within this basic framework there are many subsidiary projects covering myriad aspects of community and arts activities. We have a committed staff, many volunteers and an engaged board of directors who all work hard to ensure we continue to play an important role in many of the things that happen in the Glenkens. GCAT work closely with numerous partners with the aim of advancing wellbeing and sustainability through community engagement, arts and culture. Never has this been more important than in the current crisis. While we have an established track record in delivering projects with assistance from funders on both a local and national scale, we also recognise that we can never be complacent about the future. The nature of our activities means that income is seldom secure for any length of time which provides a constant challenge. Would you be interested in joining us and assisting us in this important work? We are currently looking to refresh our board and if you have 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 skills and the enthusiasm to play a part in our ongoing and future projects then we would love to hear from you. There is no specific personal specification or employment history necessary to become a board member - we are just looking for someone with energy, enthusiasm, time and skills that will enable GCAT to continue meeting the needs of our communities. If you are interested in discussing this further please contact me at alan.smith12345@btinternet.com or on 07769 680 938. Alan Smith, Chairman, GCAT Glenkens Gazette page 3 Glenkens Gazette page 4 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 Horse manure (including some chicken), rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 Sewing Machine, needs a little maintenance to get it working properly. Contact: 01644 430 380 FOR SALE Bath lift, £50, full working order when last used. Mr Samuel Fisher: 01644 420 843 WANTED Fridge-freezer. Contact: 07952 280 902 Old lawn mowers/strimmers/ other small machinery. Nonrunners/broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 Photo of the Issue Sponsored by the Ken Bridge Hotel This issue’s winner is Fiona Clubb with this classic setting of a man and his dog up at Troston cairn, enjoying the hills of the Glenkens. Fiona wins an evening meal for two up to the value of £30 at the Ken Bridge Hotel, when COVID-19 regulations allow. Competition judges Dave and Sue said: “This issue we're going with one man and his dog at the cairn. Lovely to see them savouring the wonderful scenery after a good walk." How to Enter: any photos taken in the Glenkens can be entered - landscapes, wildlife, portraits, action shots... Email them to glenkensgazette@ hotmail.co.uk If you are a winner, the Gazette will send you out a voucher - please call the Ken Bridge to check opening times in light of current COVID-19 guidelines. THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm 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  Kindling available 01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS  Glenkens Gazette page 5 sponsored by Salmon in the Upper Dee River System A report published in November details the distribution of Salmon in the Upper Dee river system. The report is based on electrofishing surveys which use a weak electric current to stun the fish, anabling them to be counted. These were undertaken by the Galloway Fisheries Trust through 2019 and outline a series of proposed habitat works that would support the salmon population. The main findings of the report are included summarised below. Wild juvenile salmon were present in five out of twenty electrofishing sites surveyed and production of salmon was concentrated within the Polharrow Burn, where salmon were found as far upstream as an impassable fall within Waukers Linn. The first electrofishing record of salmon production within the Earlstoun Burn was made during the surveys undertaken within this project. Habitat improvement works should be considered, particularly the addition of woody debris. The lower Earlstoun Burn is an area where active bankside erosion was recorded and could be addressed. The Water of Ken between Carsfad Dam and Craigs Linn has a lack of smaller substrates which appears to be limiting fish production. Possible option to increase smaller substrates here should be considered. Further electrofishing surveys should be undertaken within the upper reaches of the Polmaddy Burn to confirm salmon are not utilising the burn in favourable habitat. Water management practices should be discussed to see if there would be any potential to increase river flows between Polmaddy Burn outflow and Kendoon. A drone survey should be undertaken within the gorge section of river downstream of Polmaddie settlement to investigate for the presence of further impassable falls. Smolt (juvenile fish) sampling methods should be investigated surrounding the outflow of Polharrow Burn in order to input to a smolt tracking study planned for the river. The work was undertaken as part of the Galloway Glens Scheme’s aim to better understand and support the fish populations in the Ken/Dee Catchment. The full report is available on the Galloway Glens website at www.gallowayglens.org. Reviewing the completed report, Jamie Ribbens from Galloway Fisheries Trust (GFT) said: “Salmon populations across Scotland are in desperate need of help due to falling stocks. GFT are working closely with key stakeholders on the Kirkcudbrightshire Dee, including land owners, forestry organisations, SEPA, DRAX and the Dee District Salmon Fishery Board, to restore salmon stocks through a range of projects. To ensure these work, it is crucial to understand and identify where key sub-populations are located so that effective actions can take place in the right places. This report has shown the importance of the Polharrow Burn for supporting a juvenile salmon population but it has highlighted that they, and surrounding waters, need to be enhanced and protected. 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 Salmon parr. GFT appreciate the support we have received from Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership for this work.” The report formed part of the Galloway Glens ‘Fish Loch Ken’ project. Nick Chisholm, Galloway Glens project officer, said: “Salmon are an iconic Scottish species our cold, clean fast flowing rivers on the Atlantic fringe made this species super abundant in the past. Indeed there are apocryphal tales of abundance being so high in the past that farm workers complained about how often they had to eat them. Over the last few decades, the numbers of this noble fish have declined markedly. This report shines a light on their status in Dumfries and Galloway’s largest freshwater system and whilst the picture is grim in many places there is room for optimism. Fish are still present, albeit at alarmingly low numbers. The next stage of the process will be to work out how we can work with this population and support Galloway Fisheries Trust’s activities to boost their numbers.” For more information about Galloway Fisheries Trust’s wider salmon counting work visit www. gallowayfisheriestrust.org 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 6 Funding Well Spent in Corsock & KPD Each year Corsock & KPD Community Council receives £2,000 from Blackcraig Windfarm. Proposals are sought that benefit the local community, each being assessed by members of the community council. It has been agreed that the 2020/21 award of £2,000 be distributed between the following five initiatives: A contribution towards new doors at Knockvennie Hall; supporting running costs of Kirkpatrick Durham’s Bothy; Kirkpatrick Durham Village Hall; Corsock Vehicle Activated Speed Signs; and Corsock Kids' Club. Corsock & KPD Community Council secretary, McNabb Laurie, reviewing the awards, said: “Our thanks go to Temporis Capital, the operators of Blackcraig Windfarm, for the funding. It is great that the challenges of 2020 have not stopped the work of community groups in our part of the Stewartry. Hopefully these awards, through the micro grant scheme, will be a real help. The community council has adjusted to the ‘new normal’; we are still meeting monthly, albeit KPD Hall dishwasher being loaded by Rae Little who sits on the KPD Hall committee. virtually, and working to represent and support our local community.” “Thank you for another brilliant copy of the Gazette! NOW ONLINE! It is so nice to know what is going on around here.” Ruth 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 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 7 CatStrand Highlights During February we’re back online with our CatStrand at Home programme. Although we’ve had to stop in-house recording for the time being we’ll be back with new ‘Evening In’ performances in March from some word class local musicians including Moniaive based Pete Garnett and Gregg Lawson of Moishes Bagel fame and Sarah Jane Scouten, who will also be offering a songwriting masterclass online as part of a tour of songcraft sessions she is delivering around Scotland and Canada - virtually of course! If you missed our previous ‘Evening In’ performances we’ve made these available online again until the end of February – visit www.catstrand.com for links to our CatStrand at Home page to watch Hope London, Ollie Rigg & Michael Muir and Adam Blake performing for us from the CatStrand auditorium. Tickets are £8 or pay what you can. For families we’ve got a make your own rod puppet video specially made by Clydebuilt Puppet Theatre for ages 6-12. Learn how to create a rod puppet using materials you will have lying about the house and then watch these seasoned puppeteers show you how to technically move the finished puppet available from mid-February on CatStrand at Home. We’re glad to support regional theatre producers during this time too and will be presenting Townsend Theatre Company’s new play We Are the Lions Mr Manager on CatStrand at Home from 5 to 7 February. The play relives the extraordinary true story of the Grunwick Strike, a dispute that challenged the way women and immigrants are treated in the workplace. A live Q&A with the company will take place after the premiere showing on 5 February. For tickets and more information visit www. catstrand.com We look forward to welcoming you back to CatStrand for live performances and films when we are able to do so. If you need help accessing our CatStrand at Home programme of events please do get in touch with aidan@catstrand.com The CatStrand Team Changes Afoot for the Biosphere Continued from front page... The UNESCO Biosphere designation offers international recognition of an area as a world class environment for people and nature. It is a reflection of the amazing wildlife, landscapes and culture of south west Scotland, and the commitment of its communities and businesses to live and work more sustainably. The Galloway & Southern Ayrshire (GSA) Biosphere was the first UNESCO Biosphere in Scotland and is part of a family of over 700 Biospheres around the world who offer a network through which to share learning both nationally and internationally. With a strong focus on sustainability, a commitment to facing up to the challenges of the climate emergency and biodiversity loss and the opportunity to play a key role in supporting a post COVID-19 ‘green recovery’, the UNESCO Biosphere designation is very much of its time. Our Biosphere is guided by a partnership board comprising representatives from public agencies, local businesses, land managers, communities and environmental groups. A full list of board members is available www.gsabiosphere.org.uk and currently includes members from all across the catchment, including the Glenkens. Biosphere manager, Ed Forrest Since its inception in 2012 the Biosphere has delivered a significant level of activity, operating with only a minimal budget and the equivalent of just 1.5 staff members. The Biosphere team worked closely with colleagues in D&G Council to initiate the development of the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership scheme, which has gone on be to a fantastic example of the Biosphere in action. A Biosphere representative also sits on the Galloway Glens Board and we are currently working closely with the new Loch Ken Trust in the delivery of the Climate Ready Ken initiative. Other work has included the development of a natural heritage management plan that identifies high focus species and habitats including red squirrel, golden eagle, black grouse, upland oak woodland, purple moor grass and peat bogs, many of which can been in the local area. The Biosphere have also worked with local businesses, including the first UNESCO Biosphere Certification Scheme in the UK, which recognises the sustainability credentials of local business and has seen Garroch Glen Shepherds Huts (pictured on front page), Loch Ken Eco-Bothies, Galloway Activity Centre, Galloway Cycling Holidays and Galloway Flowers all go through the audit process. For those looking for an easier way to engage, you can sign up online to become a Biosphere Proud Supporter and join a network of 350 local businesses, organisations and individuals, many based in the Glenkens. St John’s Town of Dalry has been recognised as our most recent Biosphere Community. This involved community representatives joining the Biosphere team in using our Sense of Place Toolkit to identify the positive things that are happening in the local area and using that to ‘tell a story’ that promotes the village as a destination in our UNESCO Biosphere. Ed Forrest, GSA Biosphere Manager ed@gsabiosphere.org.uk Glenkens Gazette page 8 BOOKS IN BALMACLELLAN Reading for pleasure is one of the most important things we can do - books inspire, motivate and encourage us. If you are looking for somewhere locally to browse a large selection of books you need look no further than 'Books in Balmaclellan'. Books in Balmaclellan is a communityowned facility which has been developed over the last 12 months by both the Balmaclellan Hall Trust and Balmaclellan Community Trust to provide community access to books which can be borrowed or exchanged. There is also a selection of books for sale. Books in Balmaclellan is situated in the Templeton Room at Balmaclellan Village Hall and, thanks to enthusiastic volunteers, the room has been refurbished and decorated to provide a welcoming and comfortable environment to browse the books on display. It currently offers over 1,000 books donated by members of the community, covering a wide variety of fiction and nonfiction topics. The most recent donation of books was by Annan Academy and our thanks go to Mrs A Nixon, the librarian at the academy, for the books which are primarily aimed at the 12 to 18 age group. Unfortunately, due to current COVID-19 restrictions, we are unable to open at the moment, but once restrictions are lifted books can be borrowed or exchanged on the following days: Saturday - 10.30am to 12.30pm Monday - 6.30pm to 7.30pm Wednesday - 10.30am to 12.30pm We also plan to introduce a book subscription service during 2021. Please visit the Balmaclellan Facebook page for further details of when this will be available. We are always grateful for anyone wishing to donate books, and do get in touch if you can spare some time to help and support us in any way. Please contact either Julia Higgins at julia.higgins55@ outlook.com or 01644 420 297, or Ailsa Malone at ailsmalone@aol.com for further details. Revisiting Detective Classics for Lockdown: Michael Innes Michael Innes was the creator of Inspector Appleby and he wrote a number of detective and crime novels for over 40 years in the mid-20th century. Under his real name, JIM Stewart, he wrote a good deal of serious literature and was a Professor of English at a university. In many ways his crime novels are timeless, complex and wellwritten [what one would expect from an ex-pupil of Edinburgh Academy and Oxford]. Almost all of his crime novels are enjoyable, often with fantastic or bizarre twists to the plot. The reader is guaranteed humour, beautiful and precise language and pleasant heroes and heroines [not always young] striving to foil evil, selfish or unattractive individuals. My personal favourites are Appleby’s End, An Awkward Lie, Death At The President’s Lodging and Hamlet, Revenge! Many of his books are easily, and cheaply, available on Amazon. Appleby’s End was made into an excellent two-hour radio play and is available on YouTube. A small number of his novels are available as audio books on YouTube for those who find small print difficult. Most are between six and eight hours long and should fill some of the tedious lockdown/shielding or winter hours nicely. Bruce Smith Glenkens Gazette page 9 NEW BEGINNINGS IN DALRY The Glenkens Community Centre on Kirkland Street, Dalry, may be on the cusp of a rebirth in partnership with the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere. Constructed in 1878 as the schoolhouse, for many years the community centre has been the beating heart of the village with numerous groups and clubs making use of its facilities and location. OVer the last few years user groups have declined, with lockdown the final blow to the centre. Some months ago the Dalry Community Properties Trust (DCPT), owners of the centre, were approached by the Biosphere group enquiring whether there was any office space available to rent, but at that time there was only a small room available, which wasn’t much use. Fast forward a few months, and we suddenly found ourselves in a position to offer the whole of the building to the Biosphere project who have recently secured funding from South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) to the tune of £1.9 million, and are therefore looking for office space for their growing team (see cover story and p9 for more on the Biosphere). Whilst we are still very much at the beginning of the negotiation process, DCPT has now agreed in principle to lease the building to the Biosphere organisation for an initial period of five years, enabling the project to have its main office in Dalry. Surveys are due to be carried out and plans drawn up to determine the suitability of the building for conversion. Needless to say the relocation of the Biosphere headquarters to the village would be a major coup and boost to the local economy, putting Dalry on the international radar and attracting visitors from all over Scotland, the UK and indeed the whole globe. This in turn will benefit our local shops, pubs, restaurants, hotels and B&Bs, etc, so is very much a win-win scenario. There is also the added bonus of up to 12 new jobs - another boon for the area. It is also worth mentioning that there are a number of other ongoing projects in Dalry. The partial redevelopment of Barone on Main Street, former residence of the well-known bird artist Donald Watson, is continuing at pace with the aim to establish a visitor centre and cafe. DCPT is also looking to purchase the MUGA (Multiple Use Games Area) adjacent to Dalry Secondary School. The facility would be totally refurbished and made available to schools during the day and the general public at other times, catering for five-a-side football, tennis, basketball, netball and other activities. The Town Hall aims to expand its provision of activities to cater for other groups and organisations. Building on its current successful monthly film night and the Glenkens Producers Market, some of the user groups who used to be based in the community centre could make a welcome return. The Town Hall Covenanter Project has reached a significant milestone with the completion of a video for visitors to Dalry. Spalding Bowling Club goes from strength to strength, and there are also plans to refurbish the servicemen’s hut on Throughgate which currently caters for a snooker and carpet bowls club. Gary Blissett, Chairman, DCPT garyblissett51@gmail.com Celebrating James Clerk Maxwell Parton's James Clerk Maxwell photo competition had many great entries. The outdoor exhibition was impacted first by the problems at the Channel Tunnel delaying delivery of the shortlisted prints and now by the latest lockdown. Please keep any eye on the website for a notice of when the outdoor exhibition is up and running. Thanks to everyone who took part - you can take a look at the entries at www. maxwellphoto2020.wixsite.com/ gallery The winners (pictured) are Bonnie White Galloway by Erin Wilson in the under-18s category and Morning Tranquility by Debbie Stevens in the over-18s category. Suzy Mercer Glenkens Gazette page 10 Community Action Plan Continued from front page... Improving the use of community assets and buildings emerged as a key priority in the plan. A meeting took place with representatives of many of the local halls and buildings and there is a plan to map what the community has, so that these assets can work together more easily and effectively. There is a huge amount happening with food, from the local Producer Market and Glenkens Food Month to community-owned shops and a project is being funded to start to develop a better and more affordable food ecosystem locally, linking growers, retailers and users in a better way. Discussions are moving ahead with the design of a Glenkens youth There are various community projects in and around New Galloway under the LING banner. New Galloway Town Hall By the time you are reading this the Town Hall will have been closed for nearly a year, and it is well over a year since our feasibility study was completed with a very positive response from the folk of New Galloway. The next stage was to discuss the possibility of an asset transfer from D&G Council. Here is where we came up against our first problem; we were told that the building was an 'inalienable common good' property, which means it cannot be sold unless it goes through the courts after full consultation. Also it appears it cannot be used for activities other than for the burgh council without the permission of Kenmure Estate, so there was lots of legal work to do. Then along came COVID... With D&G Council understandably currently involved in more pressing matters, this has gone into limbo. Towards the end of the year we thought we might have been able to move on but, with the new lockdown, we have been told that no more work is taking place for the time being. One bright star has been that we got a grant from the Stewarty Area Committe which will enable us to go ahead with revamping the kitchen and downstairs toilet. At the moment we are only allowed to reheat food in the kitchen, but a revamp would provide facilities to enable project, and a piece of research is being commissioned to consider how to develop accessible childcare across the Glenkens. And finally, because communication and information is so vital, the Glenkens Gazette has received a small grant to research what is needed in this area. There will be information locally about the upcoming summit over the coming weeks, but to register now for the event you can go to https:// tinyurl.com/glenkens, get the link from Facebook or Twitter using the handle glenkenstrust or by emailing douglas@ communityenterprise.co.uk or Fiona. smith1@btinternet.com Douglas Westwater, Community Enterprise us to actually cook. An update to the men’s toilet would give us an accessible toilet and a separate unisex toilet. These improvements will necessitate liaising with D&G Council. We are able to hold on to the grants we received for the lift installation, but we cannot actually claim them while until we own the building. More activities are planned for when the hall can open. With some new babies in New Galloway we had just started up a new childrens group with D&G Lifelong Learning, and hopefully this will continue. Martial Arts Self Defence Group have requested to move to New Galloway. Under the auspices of several people who have moved here,it is planned to start up a craft group for various types of activites. We are also aware that there is interest from young people to have access to a space. Another idea which has been suggested is a communityi library/book group. Remember, we still hope to have our LING Lunches, carpet bowls and table A view of Loch Ken taken near the walks in New Galloway Golf Club woodlands. Income Tax Allowance for Working From Home If you have had to work from home because of COVID-19 then you may be eligible to claim a tax allowance, even if you only had to work from home for one day. For further information visit www.which.co.uk/ news/2021/01/governmentmakes-125-working-fromhome-tax-relief-easier-toaccess-can-you-claim tennis, as welll as circuit training, IT sessions & internet cafe and Art Group. Zoom Activities When it became obvious that the town hall wouldn’t be accessible in the near future we decided we needed to move into modern times and held a Zoom cheese and wine evening for our members as well as a general BINGO. Both went well so keep an eye open for other activities. Exploring New Galloway Gardening in the Garroch walled garden has continued under the COVID-19 guidelines and new gardeners have joined in and are looking forward to planting their plots in the spring. If you would like an individual plot, or to join in generally, please contact us. With so many of us confined to local excercise we have appreciated the footpath work done throughought the year by our volunteers both in the golf course woods and the Garroch paths. Again, anyone who would like to join just let us know. In order to enable the long distance Galloway Glens footpath to continue past New Galloway, LING contributed to the bridge across the Knocknairling Burn. This will enable off road walking to continue from the golf course woods through to Mossdale and beyond (see p12). The New Galloway Story Although a bit delayed due to cancellation of the planned meeting at the beginning of lockdown, this is now getting underway. If you misssed this, the idea is to create information boards within the town and also on the LING website, which has been much expanded over the last months. LING Christmas Lunch Thank you to Sam Rushton and her volunteers who stepped into the breach and organised this with local company Love to Eat when I was incapacitated. Annual General Meeting The LING AGM will be on Thursday 25 February at 7pm. This will be held as a virtual meeting by Zoom. Ros Hill Glenkens Gazette page 11 PROTECTING OUR SPECIAL PLACES Curtilage and Courtesy We live in such a peaceful part of the world that we rarely consider the many threats which undermine our health and wellbeing. Looking to history, it is interesting to see how people protected their special places without resorting to war. Civil society was built around the concept of curtilage derived from the word ‘cohors’ which is Latin for an enclosed yard. The words courtesy, curtsy, courtesan, court and cohort all have the same root. Curtilage is a way of legally defining a boundary wherein a homeowner or resident can expect reasonable levels of privacy. In essence, our curtilage is expected to deliver wellbeing and civility. In Britain our fenced garden space developed as a means to keep animals out of the vegetable plot, whereas in America the primary line of defence for curtilage was not a fence but the gun. I believe that the whole concept of curtilage needs to be rediscussed thoroughly so that our modern planning system may operate efficiently. The current Scottish Planning Framework is tremendous for encouraging developers to be courteous but there is no means by which that courtesy can be reflected in the mitigation of curtilage damage. Negatively affected neighbours simply have to accept a reduction in wellbeing or move. The main reason is that very few of us have any idea of what curtilage is really about and how it protects what is most precious to our sustainability. You would expect a courteous developer to ask the whereabouts of a neighbour’s water source. Likewise, you would expect a courteous resident to tell a developer about the location of a septic tank soakaway. With most large historical estates being carved up over the last few centuries, it is very common for our services of basic need to be spread through, under and over multiple ownership titles. Those who live in villages have a certain amount of protection from unscrupulous development, but the rest of us in rural settings are sitting ducks for the modern corporate developer to clear us from the land. It is a well known fact that in past times forestry plantation damaged countless residential water supplies through unregulated power and ignorance. As a society we must learn not to repeat the same mistakes over and over again if our special places are to survive. In 2019 the SNP and the Conservatives joined forces to ensure that the public could not Troson Loch appeal planning determinations. The necessary civility must occur our communal joint curtilage and without in the planning stage. For this reason it protection, our priceless sense of Home, is imperative that we are all courteous The Glenkens, Galloway and Scotland will when it comes to threatening the curtilage be lost. Fiona Clubb of others. We need to understand the collective world of basic need, and how it all fits together. How many of us possess a really sound understanding of where our basic services come from, or go to? If we are to protect our special The Old School, Crossmichael, DG7 3AP places we need to adopt an attitude of courtesy and build Offering time-tested, personalised acupuncture a more joined up and traditional Chinese herbal medicine to the concept of curtilage Dumfries & Galloway region. through which we can negotiate ‘winThe National Institute for Health and Care Excellence all’ development. (NICE) is recommending acupuncture treatment for Not everyone has a chronic pain conditions instead of pharmaceutical pain nice garden enclosed killers, on the premise that opioids and many analgesics by a fence. As a do more harm than good*. So, what better choice is society we need there? Acupuncture is safe, drug-free and effective. to understand that With traditional acupuncture and Chinese medicine from citizens without a qualified and trusted practitioner, you will receive traditional curtilage authentic and researched treatments. still have basic needs, and that * NICE draft clinical guideline published 3rd August 2020 their curtilage will take form, not in Practitioner Matthew Pajo has been studying and ownership, but practising Chinese medicine for over 25 years and in a community has completed a BHSc in acupuncture and has garden or the attained a MAppSc in Chinese Herbal Medicine summit of a wild Scottish mountain. Contact Matthew on 07786 079 845 In essence our community space is CROSSMICHAEL COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY CENTRE Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine Glenkens Gazette page 12 NEW GALLOWAY LINK PATH A new path is being planned to provide an off-road link between New Galloway and the Galloway Forest Park. The new route, referred to as the ‘New Galloway Link Path’, means pedestrians will have off-road access from New Galloway Golf Club woods to the Forest Park’s network of paths. Walkers currently have to negotiate the A762, with limited visibility and fast traffic. The new section of path, running from the Cairn Edward forest road at Strachan to the existing network of paths in the New Galloway Golf Club woods, allows users to avoid the road. The route boasts marvellous views over Loch Ken and into Galloway Forest Park. The need for the project was identified by the local community, particularly Gerry Cinderby and the 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 the Council’s Environment Team. Now, with the generous support of the Kenmure Estate landowner and the assistance of the Dumfries & Galloway Outdoor Access Trust, plans are afoot to establish the new route in Spring 2021. The project will cost more than £30,000 in total. This is being funded by the Galloway Glens Scheme’s National Lottery Heritage Funding, matched to contributions from the Council’s Environment Team, the Dumfries & Galloway Region Wide Community Fund and a contribution from LING. Final fundraising for the route is now underway. The path route will complete a missing path link between New Galloway and the path network in the Forest Park to the south. The work undertaken will include creation of new lengths of path, upgrade of existing paths, and a new footbridge over Knocknairling Burn. Gerry Cinderby, New Galloway resident and Local Initiatives in New Galloway volunteer, who identified the opportunity for the project initially, said: “This path will be of great benefit to local walkers and to visitors. It will give safe access to areas of old woodland as well the network of paths in the Forest Park and could form part of an ambition to develop a long-distance path from Carsphairn to Kirkcudbright. Our grateful thanks to all the funders of this project and to the landowner who generously supported this idea”. Further applications for match funding are currently underway, but it is planned that the improvements will be delivered in March 2021. Any queries or comments on the project are welcomed to jonathan.barrett@ dumgal.gov.uk Balmaclellan Community Garden Plans are underway to create a space for the local community to use, at the Balmaclellan Village Hall. Locals will know that there is a substantial area of land around the hall that will benefit from a spruce up, and local people will have opportunities to be involved in the planning, design and creation. A survey has been launched to find out what local people want to see in the space. You can have your say by using the URL at the end of this article – or look out for hard copies available in your favourite usual local outlets. Community gardens are about more than gardening. They are social spaces, places for people to meet and mingle, for events, barbecues and picnics. They can also be educational – a space for local gardening enthusiasts to swap tips and knowledge, or swap seeds and cuttings. Children and young people can learn how to grow, and learn about biodiversity, or just have space to play and picnic. The garden at Balmaclellan will incorporate a heritage display in the village hall to showcase the rich history of Balmaclellan and its people. This will be a social and educational resource for residents and visitors to the village. The Balmaclellan Community Trust received funding for the heritage project from Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership small grants scheme. The Trust are working with local food enterprise Propagate, who will help design and create the space. Abi from Propagate has over 20 years experience working with communities on local food projects, including developing community growing projects. Propagate are also the lucky recipients of a Galloway Glens grant. A series of outdoor skillshare workshops will be happening during 2021 at The Hidden Mill. The first of these is ‘Soil and Soul’, a mulchy journey into soil health and soil building. This will take place on Saturday 17 April, with the others taking place later in the year. The link to the survey for having your say in how the community garden should develop can be found at https://forms. gle/YMPqSozhrvx27W7E7 Find out more about the workshop by searching for Soil and Soul on www. eventbrite.co.uk and more about Propagate can be found at www. propagate.org.uk or by searching Propagate Scotland on Facebook. Glenkens Gazette page 13 The Optimistic Environmentalist It is estimated around 1 billion (yes, billion) Christmas cards are sent each year, 25 million at Valentine’s day, and a further 16 million at Easter – and these figures are just in the UK. Why not use these to create gift tags for next year or, if that’s not for you, try to recycle them. If you’ve received parcels in cardboard boxes, why not use the flattened boxes as mulch under your plants which will help retain moisture in the ground and keep down some of the weeds. If you don’t need it, give it to someone that could use it. As a Braille reader, I supply my husband with Braille paper; it is much thicker than paper for print so that the Braille dots do not get squashed too easily. It has a strange property - ordinary paper gets wet and breaks up; for some reason Braille paper does not so stays on the ground for a long time, wet but intact. If you are not lucky enough to have access to this, make sure you buy Valentine's chocolates or Easter eggs in cardboard or foil, and with as little packaging as possible. The other month I bought six bars of Lindor chocolate over the internet. I was shocked that each bar was wrapped in bubble wrap - whilst chocolate is precious to me, I fail to see why it needed so much packaging when it was all sent in a box! Some companies are now changing to plastic-free or plastic reduced packaging. Next time you order something, why not ask the supplier to leave out the plastic? I love Ferrero Roche but had stopped buying them because they come in that very thick plastic container that you can’t do anything with and which is not recyclable. However, I was given some in a Christmas tree shaped box made of card - I hope this is a good sign, it certainly was for my taste buds! Remember to recycle the aluminium foil around the chocolates too, at the council household waste sites. Finally, I’d like to harp on about toilet paper. Before Christmas, I found a company who were selling recycled paper rolls in brightly decorated paper. According to an article published by National Geographic an astounding 40% of the plastic produced is packaging – used just once and then thrown away. Unfortunately, these toilet rolls are a little more expensive than some other brands, but the cost does include a donation to a charity to improve hygiene and sanitation throughout the world. It made me think though - why do we need to see our toilet rolls through plastic, anyway? I searched the internet. The next best product I could find was from Suma recycled toilet rolls with no chlorine-based processing in potato starch industrially compostable ‘Bioplast’ on certain packs. You cannot put this in your own compost bin as it is does not get hot enough. Some councils do take it in their garden waste. The good news is that Suma Ecoleaf loo rolls, which are available in supermarkets, have emailed me back and are in the process of changing to fully recycled paper wrap. The current rolls are competitively priced so I hope the changes will still keep them like that. I have written to the supermarkets I use regularly to ask them to encourage other producers to change too. It’s amazing how such basic changes will help with lowering our carbon footprint and reducing landfill. Denise MacDonald-Kiernan THE GARDEN SPOT This is the season when I think of the three Ps: Planning, Pruning & Planting. In these uncertain times, we don’t know if we will be able to get into garden centres but the restricted range in supermarkets of seeds and plants is not our only choice. There is much more available on the internet than you might at first think and you are not restricted to Amazon and eBay. You can buy many items online from Dobbies garden centre (and others), seeds from Suttons, etc, and dahlias and chrysanths from Halls – I am sure that you will all have your own favourite suppliers. The internet is also useful for advice and ideas. Some sites I use are Gardeners World, Beechgrove Garden and Gardeners Question Time, but a word of advice – don’t try and follow advice given on websites that are not UK-based. Growing conditions in other countries vary significantly and, if you are looking at GQT or Gardeners World sites, their advice is often focused on England so add a week or two to the advised planting times. There are some good videos on YouTube as well, but do double-check any advice from videos. The time is approaching the last chance to order and plant bare-rooted trees and shrubs (including fruit trees), so don’t hang about. Now is the time for winter pruning. Much is specific to individual plants but wisteria is one that people often get wrong – each of last year’s new growths should now be cut back to two or three buds; don’t cut it right back as those buds are where the flowers come from. For roses, cut out dead/dying wood, remove crossing branches and cut back the rest to an outward-facing bud, I usually cut back to about half the height that it reached last year. Keep your tools clean and sharp to avoid spreading diseases and, if you are using a ladder, move it frequently and don’t overstretch. Clear away dead leaves, etc, from the ground as this is where pests and diseases over-winter. Get slow-growing plants such as chilli started by sowing seeds in a propagator or indoor on a windowsill, and don’t be too keen to plant seeds outdoors if the soil is still cold. If the weeds haven’t started to germinate then there is no Azalea flowering in February snow. point in planting your annual flowers or veg out yet either – better to be a little late, they will soon catch up. Remember to check over any plants that are overwintering in the greenhouse or shed and pick off dead leaves before they attract mould. Make sure they don’t dry out and, if they look dead, don’t give up too soon – I have known apparently-dead plants come back to life as late as mid-June. Finally, a plea for hedgehogs. They are the gardener’s friend, eating slugs and other nasties, so avoid slug pellets and make sure that hedgehogs have a way to get into and out of your garden as they need to roam far and wide. And to brighten the day, a photo from a previous season. The Intrepid Gardener Glenkens Gazette page 14 Glenkens Gazette page 15 Advertisement Glenkens Gazette page 16 Glenkens Gazette page 17 Looking Forward to Seeing You From our perspective at Balmaclellan Village Hall, 2020 was a very frustrating year. With the COVID-19 lockdown closing the hall in late March, all the events which we had planned were postponed and indeed at the time of writing, the Hall remains closed. However, this does not mean that things have not been happening. Work on refurbishing the building has continued and new facilities are ready to be used when lockdown is lifted. Plans are in hand to restart activities in the Hall when community groups are allowed to again use the venue. The Books in Balmaclellan project has successfully rekindled people's interest in books and a substantial collection of books on a wide range of topics are now available. The events programme for 2021 has now been published (see Balmaclellan Facebook page and posters) and includes a range of activities from quiz nights to plant shows, barbecues to talks, a ceilidh or two and not forgetting the pre-Christmas community gathering and Hogmanay “We will do this again!” party. It will feel great to get these events started again. All of this is of course subject to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, but we believe it is important to think positively and be ready to launch our events when the time comes. Balmaclellan Village Hall has been serving the community since 1924 and we plan to do so in 2021. If anyone would like to help with any of these activities please contact Ailsa Malone at ailsmalone@aol.com Stephen Bullock, Chairman, Balmaclellan Village Hall Trust 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 18 Primary Schools Update Just after the schools broke up we received the news that we would be returning to remote learning after Christmas. This was then extended on 4 January. It didn’t feel like the new start/new year we were all hoping for. However, Dalry and Kells Primary staff, children, parents and the local community appear to be coming together again to face the challenge. Although we are only a week into the new remote learning term, we have managed to improve on some of the challenges we faced last time. We have held some successful class ‘Teams’ meetings online, have a new closed Facebook group to share learning and buckets-full of hope, enthusiasm and community spirit. One of the other exciting projects we are planning is a magazine created by the Glenkens Primary Schools. It appears to be quickly evolving into a community effort. Not only have we many children on board, we have contributors to the Glenkens Gazette and other local groups wanting to support us. Thank you to all who have volunteered their time and effort. We look forward to being able to share this with you. Although the data for Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland and UK-wide is worrying at present, we do have the rollout of vaccines and a better understanding of the virus to support us this time. If you have any thoughts or ideas on how the schools could help or interact with the community, especially those who are feeling isolated at this time, please get in touch with us. In the meantime, stay safe and continue to follow the rules. Paul Scrimshaw, Head Teacher, Glenkens Primary Cluster Glenkens WW2 Deaths: Part II This is the second article covering Glenkens deaths in WW2. After the article in the last edition I was sent a photograph of Robert (Bobby) Little who was killed on 14 March 1941 and is buried in Dalry churchyard. If you have any photographs please send copies (not originals) to the Gazette so that I can include them with future articles. Corporal George Verdun Bell Penman served with the RAF Volunteer Reserve and was taken prisoner by the Japanese on Java. He was one of many prisoners taken to the island of Haruku. He died there on 17 May 1943 and was buried at Cape Marakee but was re-interred at Ambon in February 1947. George was born 1917 in Kells Parish, the son of George and Margaret (Bell) Penman of Dalmae, Dalry. He is named on the Kircudbright Academy War Memorial as well as the memorial in Dalry. It was a grim day in New Galloway on 19 June 1943 with two deaths reported - gunner George Maclure and conductor John Robb. George Richard Maclure, served with 148 (Bedfordshire Yeomanry) Field Regiment, Royal Artillery. George was born in 1912 in Ceylon, the son of Richard and Mary Margaret Maclure of New Galloway. He was taken prisoner at the fall of Singapore in 1942 and died at the age of 31 at the Kinsayok Prisoner 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 War camp. He is buried in the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, Thailand. John Robb was a warrant officer class 1 in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps and was appointed to the position of conductor. Born 1914 in New Galloway, John was the son of John and Agnes (Milligan) Robb. He served in the 51st Highland Division and was captured at the surrender at St Valery-en-Caux in June 1940. John died suddenly in the prisoner of war camp hospital at Hildburghausen in central Germany at the age of 29 and was buried there. His body was re-interred in Berlin in August 1950. James Howatson was born in 1920 in Carsphairn, the son of Francis and Elizabeth Howatson of Lowe Cleugh Farm, Dalry. He enlisted into the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve in March 1940 and served with 40 Squadron as a Sergeant wireless operator/air gunner. The squadron’s Wellington bombers had been operating from Malta since October 1941 against targets in Italy and North Africa. In May 1942 the surviving aircraft were flown to Egypt, eventually moving West to the airfield at Hani West, Tunisia, flying against targets in Sicily and Italy. James was reported Missing in Action on 8 July 1943 at the age of 23 and is named on the Malta memorial to the missing. It is not clear why James is listed on the Dalry war memorial and not on the one in Carsphairn. 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 Bobby Little. Christopher Martin Bell (known as Martin) was born in 1920 in Kells, the son of Robert and Letitia (Morgan) Bell of Dalry. He served in the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards as a Sergeant and was killed in action on 11 September 1943, being buried in Salerno War Cemetery, Italy. Martin is commemorated on the Kells parish War Memorial in New Galloway. Alan Richard MacDonald was born in 1921 at Eton, Buckinghamshire, the son of William Elder and Grace Eileen (Young) MacDonald of the Schoolhouse, Balmaclellan. He served as a flying officer in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. He was declared missing in action on 29/30 October 1943 at the age of 21 when his aircraft disappeared on a training flight from RAF Long Kesh in Northern Ireland. Alan is listed on the Runnymede Memorial in Surrey and on the Balmaclellan War Memorial. ...to be continued… Paul Goodwin Glenkens Gazette page 19 The River Crossing at Dalry The witness statements in the court case brought by John Newall against the Earl of Galloway in 1781 over the building of an embankment to protect the Holm of Dalry from flooding provide interesting details on how the river was crossed here in those days. ferry and landed at e, about 30 metres downstream from d. Most traffic from the ferry used to follow the path skirting round the south side of the churchyard and then heading up into the village of Dalry. The remains of the earlier embankment gradually got worn down close to the churchyard wall by those on foot and by cattle, allowing continued access to haven e along the traditional path. However, carriages and carts had to skirt around the south end of the old embankment and approach haven e along its inner side until a wider path was made when the churchyard dyke was repaired eight years previously. The new embankment interfered with all such traffic that had followed that wider path. when the river was high it was usual to put cattle in the river a little upstream of the usual ferry point on Mr Newall’s side of the river so that they might land at either Red Scar or d, as it was dangerous for them to land any lower on account of the strong current. He had from time to time seen beasts carried further downstream by the current. The other route into Dalry was the steep one up from rock d by the north corner of the churchyard, which the present-day path follows. Foot passengers sometimes used this and riders would lead their horses up this way, but it was really too steep for carts. Some years previously, Alex McMillan had put a ditch and a stake and ryce hedge (small horizontal branches woven between stakes) across this The ferryman lived at path to stop cattle getting up Boatgreen on the west side of to the crops he had higher the river crossing and, prior up above the motte, but this to the building of Allangibbon had been broken down by Bridge, this crossing was travellers. the main local route to the More recently, with western side of the Ken valley. the building of the new I have found with my metal embankment, the path from detector coins going back to e leading round to the north the reign of Elizabeth I and corner of the churchyard many Georgian halfpennies had been widened and around the site of Boatgreen – strengthened, supported by but notably no Victorian coins, wood, to allow travellers more tying in well with the building easily to use this route. of Allangibbon Bridge in 1816. It was also revealed that The boatman in 1781 was John Newall himself had built 1781 plan of the River Ken and crossing points at Dalry. William Smith, aged 63, who an embankment some twenty had operated the ferry for 18 years earlier on his side of years. He had the ferry in a the river roughly opposite the Haven e was the only point where sublet from William Newall, the brother new embankment, and also one below carriages and carts were loaded onto of the principal tenant John Newall. the Cat Craig. These embankments the ferry or offloaded from it. When There was no machinery on either side consisted of woodwork filled up with the water was very high horses, and to assist the loading and offloading of sand and stone. But the witness sometimes cattle, were landed at carts and ‘trail carrs’. This had to be who mentioned this, John Barber of Clauchanmark burnfoot (b) or at Red done by men. Clauchanmark (where Kenbank House Scar (c). Two witnesses also commented Various places were used for now stands) said that he didn’t think that coffins carried on handspikes were embarking and disembarking. When they stood beyond a year. landed at b and c when the water was the water was low the ferry generally The boatman William Smith spoke of too high at haven e. To access these took foot passengers between m and how in the very high flood of harvest higher landing points the ferry would rock d (see plan), along the line which 1778 the water stood three feet deep creep up the western bank before the suspension bridge now follows. in the Boatgreen houses. This flood launching across the stream. Those on horses would cross a little also threw up the sand bank at the ford When the ford was impassable black downstream at the ford, which is often and deepened the water there, making cattle and sheep were sometimes swum called the ‘horse ford’ in the witness fording there more difficult. across from m to e. One witness, James statements. When the river was higher David Bartholomew Douglas of Kirkstyle, commented that horses were transported across on the Glenkens Placenames Interest I have been following with interest your instalments on Glenkens Placenames, in particular Part VI which dealt with Tydeaverries. My grandfather Walter Maxwell was born at Lagan near Loch Howie on the Corriedoo side of Blackcraig hill. His father, Alexander, was gamekeeper and died there in 1896 of diphtheria. Although Tydeaverries was recorded as a ruin in the 1860s it was occupied in 1901 by my grandfather, his mother Margaret, and four of his nine siblings, following Alexander’s death. They probably ‘flitted’ using the footpath that ran from Loch Howie to Halfmark. This would suggest that either the original Tydeaverries was reinhabited or there was another residence in the vicinity that used the name. Margaret’s aunt was Anne Hannah who was murdered by Mary Timney at Carsphad in 1861. Barbara Barker Glenkens Gazette page 20 GLENKENS PLACE NAMES: PART VIII Let’s continue our look at the meanings of now deserted former Glenkens farms. Continuing up the Ken on the west bank and exploring up the tributary glens like Glenlee, An Gleann Liath or Gleann Laoigh ‘the grey valley or calf valley’ and the Garroch Glen, Gleann Gadharach, possibly ‘hunting hound valley’ or as suggested on the ‘PlaceNames of the Galloway Glens’ website, Gleann Garbhach, ‘rough glen’. Starting up Glenlee then, we pass a significant Glenkens landmark, the somewhat conical shaped hill called Dunveoch. This is most likely derived from Dùn na(m) bhFitheach, fort or hill of the raven(s). This is an interesting hill name as it shows that the Gaelic spoken by Glenkens folk shared some affinities with Irish and Manx Gaelic. The altering of the /f/ to /v/ sound in the genitive (called eclipsis) is characteristic of Irish. Compare the Scottish Gaelic place-name form Creag nam Fitheach, ‘rock of the ravens’ in Knapdale to see the difference. Upstream from Dunveoch and past the recently built hydro scheme on the Glenlee Burn are two abandoned farmsteads towards the upper reaches of the glen, before the hills called Benbrack, A’ Bheinn Bhreac, ‘speckled peak’ and Craigrine, Creag Rinne, ‘pointed rock or cliff’ block progress westwards. These are Drumbuie and Lochspraig. The former was in ruins by the time of the first OS survey around 1850 and no doubt derives from An Druim Buidhe, the yellow back or ridge, referring originally to what is now called the Rig of Drumbuie. Lochspraig is quite a puzzling place-name, there is another Lochspraig near Bargrennan in the Cree Valley. Given that there is no loch in the vicinity and looks like there never has been one there, I think the generic element might be log, a variant of the more familiar lag/lagan, ‘a hollow or declevity’. The specific element may well be sprèidh, cattle, livestock, ie Log Sprèidhe. The Place-Names of the Galloway Glens website (op cit) would dispute this but I have heard sprèidh being pronounced by native speakers in a way that would give rise to the hard terminal ‘g’ sound in Scots. Incidentally there is another potential example of the generic term discussed here in the former farm of Lochmeharb, now engulfed in commerical Sitka just over the Carsphairn parish boundary into East Ayrshire. This is probably Log na h-Earba, ‘hollow of the hind’, compare Craigmaharb for Creag na h-Earba, ‘rock of the hind’ in the Forrest Glen. Proceeding now up the Garroch Glen we come to an abandoned farm on the edge of the wonderful Hannaston Oakwoods called on the OS 1st Edition 6’’ map Greenloop. This may refer to a green loop in the Garroch Burn. It is approximately in the same location as the settlement named Kaen on the Blaeu atlas, surveyed around 1590. Kaen then may have been an earlier name for Greenloop and could be derived from The site of Allwhillam, Aill Choluim on the Garroch Burn ceann, ‘head, point, looking southwest towards A’ Bheinn Bhreac. top, promontory, etc’, probably the same element as occurs in Kenmure are remains of a summer shieling much Castle, earlier forms of which include higher up the hill than Clenrie (on Canmoor 1456, Kennemor, 1471 for Meikle Lump, Scots ‘big lump’). The An Ceann Mòr, the big head. This foundations can still be seen. probably referring to the prominent It is evident from the OS 1st edition natural mound on which the castle was 6’’ map of 1853 and earlier maps constructed. that most of the upper Glenkens Loan Fell is a Scots place-name tributary glens were once much more meaning ‘hill beside a path or track’ densely populated than is the situation and this ruin is situated on the opposite today. Many of the former farms and bank of the Garroch Burn on the edge shepherd’s cottages have been engulfed of Garroch Wood. Not far away, beside in a monoculture of Sitka spruce, the surviving farm house of Hannaston especially so in the Forrest Glen. This is the abandoned settlement called valley seems to have been particularly Cavan, An Cabhan, ‘the hollow’ the heavily settled in the past. same term as found in the Irish County The Crummy Burn is a significant Cavan. tributary stream of the Polharrow, Pol Further up the Garroch Glen we pass na h-airbhe, ‘burn of the boundary’, the continuing farms of Knocksheen, probably referring to the so called Deil’s Cnoc Sìthean, ‘fairy hill’, the former Dyke which most likely was a boundary farmhouse of Largmore, An Learg marker for the eastern perimeter of the Mòr, ‘the big hill slope’ and another hunting Forest of Buchan. The Crummy Drumbuie, see above. On the hill north Burn has generated the nearby of Largmore, at the side of the upper settlement names of Crummypark reaches of the Crummy Burn is the and Crummyfoot, the latter being long abandoned settlement called Broadpark abandoned. The burn name probably on the OS 1st Edition, 1853. This seems comes from Cromadh, ‘the bending, straightforward ‘broad enclosure’ but twisting one’. Near Crummyfoot ‘foot it was Bred House with Upper and of the Crummy Burn’ is the ruin of Nether Bred on an estate plan of 1768 Burnclose which according to the OS by James Gregg. This suggests Am was a former smithy.This will be Scots Bràghad, ‘the slope’ possibly lies behind ‘enclosure by the burn’. the anglicised Broadpark. Just above Knocknalling, probably An Leaving the public road we then climb Cnocan Àlainn, ‘the beautiful hillock’ up the unmetalled road towards the is the former stead called, on the OS remote sheiling of Clenrie, An Claon 1st edition map of 1853, Kingston. Àirigh, ‘the sloping sheiling’, but before The Place-Names of the Galloway reaching there on the left, surrounded Glens website suggests that ‘the name by broken down dykes is the abandoned probably reflects royal rights over the settlement of Allwhillam. This had been land in this part of the parish, being abandoned by 1853 and the derivation part of the hunting forest.’ given in the Place-Names of the A striking landmark on the way up the Galloway Glens website, Aill Choluim, Forrest Glen is the line of cliffs on the ‘Calum or Colum’s rugged bank, rough north bank of the Polharrow called Craig steep, steep river-bank, place or stead’ Michael, Creag Mhìcheil, ‘Michael’s Cliff’. is appropriate. I think the most likely This feature has given its name to an meaning is steep river bank here as abandoned farm at its north-east end, the farmstead is built on a little plateau not far from the Kingston mentioned of better drained ground which slopes above. steeply down to the Garroch Burn. We will continue the journey up the It might be interesting to hill walkers Forrest Glen in the next edition. who ascend Millyea, Am Meall Liath, Michael Ansell, ‘the grey lump’ from Clenrie that there Cars Fèarna Glenkens Gazette page 21 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN The Gaddgedlar Hoard A medieval Icelandic saga conveys the information that Gaddgedlar is the place where Scotland and England meet. In a previous brief discussion of the Vikings in Galloway, based on an article I published in 1991, I pointed out the very slight remains of Viking activity here in the Southwest. This has always seemed something of a puzzle because the Vikings were fairly numerous on the south side of the Solway, as they were in the Isle of Man and of course Ireland. They colonised Shetland and Orkney, Caithness and Sutherland while replacing many Gaelic place-names in the Outer Hebrides with Viking ones. These warriors also moved into the Clyde and on one occasion achieved the remarkable feat of capturing Dumbarton Castle. We are still not sure why their presence in Galloway is so scanty. However, many of you will have seen in the Press that the Vikings, or at least traces of their presence, are set to return to Kirkcudbright this summer. Items from possibly the most important hoard ever discovered in the UK are to be exhibited in Edinburgh in February this year, before moving to Kirkcudbright Galleries. The launch celebrates a three-year project for which £1 million has been awarded to thoroughly investigate the hoard’s contents. Although the site of the find has been an open secret locally, until now it has been vaguely described as having been discovered in Dumfries and Galloway to deter future would-be Hoard Raiders. Now the Scottish Daily Record has revealed that the collection was “found on church land near Balmaghie in 2014 by Derek McLennan”. We in the Glenkens have been fortunate to have heard excellent talks by Revd David Bartholomew and Dumfries and Galloway archaeologist Andrew Nicholson, both of whom were involved in the finding of the treasure trove. It is now possible for us to shout about this glorious discovery from the top of Merrick, which incidentally on a good day is an ideal spot from which to enjoy distant views of some parts of Viking Scotland, England, Man and Ireland. The collection includes gold ingots and artefacts, items in bronze, glass and crystal, and many items made of silver. See the National Museums Scotland website for short films on the find discussed by Dr Martin Goldberg, principal curator. Susanna Harris of Glasgow University, co-investigator, is understandably enthusiastic about some of the organic materials unearthed, such as wood, leather, wool, linen, textiles and silk, some unprecedented in a Scottish context. study of the treasures will hopefully revolutionise our understanding of our surroundings in the tenth century. Who buried the objects and why? In which direction was the person, or persons, who buried them travelling? Were they even Vikings? Why were some items melted down while others were preserved? Why are the objects in four separate parcels? Why do there not appear to be any weapons so far? What do the remains tell us about the burier’s sense of the aesthetic? Why did the buriers not return for their horde? A new book on the Vikings of 570 pages has very few references to Scotland; Neil Price, The Children of Ash and Elm: A History of the Vikings. Although we sometimes may think there are already enough books on the Vikings to sink a thousand ships this one, like the author’s other publications, is excellent. His title is inspired by one of numerous Viking origin legends. It tells of two great lumps of driftwood washed up on the beach which are transformed into the first man and the first woman, Askr, the ash tree and Embla, the elm; ‘from this couple are descended all of humankind, down through the millennia to our own time’. It was to be a close-run matter in the twentieth century when 25 million elms died in the UK alone. It is currently predicted that ash dieback will kill a horrendous 80% of our ash trees. Price just manages to include a quick reference to the ‘spectacular tenth-century hoard of silver, gold and jewellery in Galloway. The ecclesiastical nature of a number of the hoarded items indicates they may well have been plundered from a monastery’. But which one? Inevitably there will continue to be more questions than answers but hopefully some kind of information board will be provided at Balmaghie before too long. Ted Cowan It is up to us to talk up the find at every opportunity and to think about what these objects might actually mean, such as the symbols on the artefacts, or to question how Chinese silk arrived on the banks of the Ken. As more folk view the treasures, new visitors as well as residents will regard their surroundings with fresh eyes. It is up to us to talk up the find at every opportunity and to think about what these objects might actually mean, such as the symbols on the artefacts, or to question how Chinese silk arrived on the banks of the Ken. In time the Galloway hoard artefact. Glenkens Gazette A Hebridean Journey page 22 Behind an unassuming cottage in Moniaive lies a treasure trove. the genteel manner in which she gathers these stories. Whether this is whilst making bannocks with a farmer’s wife at the top of Galloway glen, talking traditional techniques with a shepherd, or knitting This treasure is not gold nor silver nor with a fellow home artisan; they are jewels but something far more valuable – shared moments, in front of the fire or memories. The Vanishing Scotland archive on top of the hill, where knowledge and is a collection of songs, stories, recordings, sentiment are passed on. As a private films and handmade artefacts gathered archive, Vanishing Scotland's contents over 40 years by curator Alyne Jones. are available to researchers through Great care is taken to protect this legacy, collaborative projects and endeavours. not just for the collectors but for those This treasure trove of a collection also who entrusted their memories and work to includes many gems from further afield the archive. stories and songs that come from across Alyne has collected hundreds of stories, Scotland and across time, that have found memories and photographs of the people their way to Alyne. One such artefact is an and landscape of Dumfries & Galloway extremely rare piece of history that has recording ways of life and activities, often finally been brought to life after 100 years. now sadly no longer practised. Early in 1990 Alyne interviewed Miss Many in Glenkens have already been Winifred Shand, the last organiser of the interviewed by her, and will appreciate Highland Home Industries, an organisation set up in 1909 to promote handwork and crafts from the Highlands and Islands. During the course of these interviews Alyne became the book-keeper and Vanishing Scotland the repository for a handwritten journal recounting the birth of the Sketch and photograph from Miss MacKenzie's diary. Highland Home Industries in the travels of the first organiser, Miss Isabell Burton MacKenzie. A hidden diary, a lost world brought to life, the book reads like a feature film. Travelling from a castle on the Black Isle by steam train Miss MacKenzie, an Edwardian lady, moves from her usual high society social circle to journey (with her travelling bath) around the outer Hebrides by pony and boat. After over 100 years hidden away, everyone can share in Isabell’s adventures. A Hebridean Journey is available from Vanishing Yarns, the showcase for the archive website (see details below). Kara Millen An Interview with Alyne Jones... 1) What inspired you to write A Hebridean Journey and what is the book about? During my time studying ethnology at The School of Scottish Studies, Edinburgh University, I was struck time and again by the fact that the lives and the work of remarkable women are rarely recorded. The book is about a journey made to the Hebrides in 1912 by an extremely accomplished young woman artist and photographer, employed as the first organiser of the Highland Home Industries. 2) Some years ago you did an exhibition at the CatStrand. Do you have much research about the Glenkens, and is it accessible to local people? The Vanishing Scotland exhibition, part of Homecoming Scotland, gave people the chance to see my portraits of exceptional people who were well known in Galloway as tradition bearers of indigenous knowledge. I spent many hours and days in the Galloway hills listening to songs, tunes, stories, dances and collecting from the folk memory, recounted as if the events from half a century ago occurred yesterday. I am planning for further access facilities as in the past few years I have had a number of successful research student placements. 3) Where are you from originally and what sparked your interest in history? As a child growing up I was engaged in the life of a small market town on a river. I learned to swim in the Nith, rowed the ferry boat across it and played with frogs on its banks. The countryside was a magical place where my father worked to get extra money for our annual holidays and put me to bed at night with stories from the farms. It was becoming a part of the folk revival, going to the Dumfries Folksong Club every week as a teenager and learning those songs, that imbued in me a lifelong love of people’s history. 4) Do you have another book planned and, if so, what would you like to write about? I have plans for three books; to share my collection of traditional knitting patterns, illustrated with pictures of knitters along with the history of the hill shepherding folk and artists; the story of the last organiser of Highland Home Industries, which will be called Knitting by Bicycle; and Mullwharcar Memories Stories of Galloway Folk. The hills and moors of Nithsdale and Galloway are being changed rapidly into an industrial landscape and the people, the land and the wildlife and plants will soon be just a memory. This saddens me more than I can say. 5) I believe you have an archive of Galloway folk music - is this something which focuses much on the Glenkens? And is it something you plan to make available for local people, or perhaps publish in some way? When this pandemic is over I would love to collaborate with other local projects to produce a piece of legacy work with multimedia that will remind people living now upon whose shoulders they stand. To find out more about Alyne’s work call 01848 200 083, visit www.vanishingyarns. co.uk or contact her by post at Vanishing Scotland, Rosedene, Dunreggan, Moniaive, DG3 4HQ. Glenkens Gazette page 23 GLENKENS MUSINGS Now as the festive season has wound down and we’ve all started to try and better ourselves for a new year, sadly the horrible memories and feelings of 2020 are still very heavily engraved upon all of our minds. The year that triggered so much loss and so much pain will probably remain with us forever. And as I write, still the sinful and malevolent entity that is COVID-19 shows its ugly face and continues to rip apart our world. However, a lot has happened since last I wrote and promising things have started to occur. The exciting news on the vaccine being rolled out was finally a little glimmer of hope for everyone and now gives us a fighting chance of defeating the virus. In spite of this, when the Glenkens will receive this jab is a question I don’t know the answer to. But then again, because we’ve come so far and suffered for so long, being patient is a thing we’ve become quite accustomed too. Overall, the UK is now in a much better state than it has previously been in. The dark clouds that have hovered over us for the past 12 months are now slowly starting to disperse and we can see light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again but I am still so thankful that the Glenkens community have still stayed strong and helped each other out through these difficult times. We are so nearly out of the woods! Just a little longer to stay strong together; if we all follow the rules and keep up morale, the finishing line is in sight. So, I hope all that you do in 2021 brings you great joy and success and, if you ever have any doubts about the year, please remember that surely it’s going to be better than last year! James Wallace WINDY RIG WIND FARM PROGRESS UPDATE As we move into the next phase of the project component deliveries - RJ McLeod will step back as the construction phase is nearing completion. COMPONENT DELIVERIES TO SITE Moving forward into the component delivery phase we will be working with Collett who will be transporting the components to site and Vestas as the supplier of the turbine components. Vestas will also be constructing the turbines across the site. SUCCESSFUL TRIAL RUNS In December we held two trial runs of components to the site, one run to simulate a blade delivery and one to simulate a tower section. Both runs went very well and gave us vital information on the timings that we will need for the actual deliveries that we expect to start in early February. LAYDOWN AREA AND LOCAL ROAD IMPROVEMENTS The laydown area at Carsphairn is ready for the deliveries of the blades and the road widening along the B729 and C35 is complete. In mid-January we carried out some strengthening work on the C35 to ensure the road surface wouldn’t be impacted by the component deliveries. Across the site all the turbine bases were completed before Christmas and the last of the access roads will be completed in early February. We are currently operating a text message service to alert residents to potential disruption, contact Doug Wilson if you would like to be added, doug.wilson@statkraft. com or call 07542 754642. For up to date information on construction progress, visit www.statkraft.co.uk/windyrig Advertisement Work continued to progress well on the Windy Rig development throughout December and January despite the weather and only one day was lost due to the snow in midDecember. Glenkens Gazette Support for Local Projects The Galloway Glens Small Grants Scheme has just made its fourth round of awards, and a number of Glenkens projects were successful in receiving funding. Some of the Glenkens projects to receive funding are: Carsphairn Community Woodland Ltd: £4,885 awarded. The applicant is in the process of purchasing 49 hectares of woodland at Muirdrochwood forest, near Carsphairn (www.carsphairn.org/CCWL). This award will support the installation of visitor amenities, including picnic benches, noticeboard, compost toilet and hide. Balmaclellan Community Trust: £4,913 awarded. The group are seeking to install a heritage display in the village hall to showcase the rich history of Balmaclellan and its people, acting as a social and educational resource. Propagate CIC: £5,000 awarded. The group, based at Ironmacannie Mill, outside Balmaclellan, will provide courses and training on topics such as agroecological land management, organic food growing and low carbon solutions. Glenkens Community & Arts Trust: £4,015 awarded. The project will cast a bronze replica of the locally found Balmaclellan Mirror, dated from the first century AD, currently on display at the National Museum of Scotland (www.arthistoryproject.com/timeline/ prehistory/iron-age/thebalmaclellan-mirror). Jude Crooks, Galloway Glens Administrator, said: “The Galloway Glens Scheme has now made 22 Small Grant awards, worth more than £75,000 in total. This was our fourth funding round and I’m looking forward to working with the range of community groups that have received an award. We have a £100,000 budget for the Small Grants Scheme page 24 and so will be advertising the next funding round in the near future.” Ted Leeming, the Chairman of the Galloway Glens Partnership Board, said: “The Small Grants Scheme is a small but extremely valuable part of the work being done by the wider Galloway Glens Scheme, and has already supported a varied suite of projects that seek to connect people to their heritage in their own way. "It is great to see such appetite and demand for innovative and forwardthinking projects in these strange times that we live in. My thanks go, as ever, to my fellow partnership board members, the Galloway Glens team, the National Lottery Heritage Fund for the award and all Scheme partners, including the Council’s Environment Team and the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere.” Pictured are the representatives from two of the successful projects, Propagate (left) and Balmaclellan Community Trust (above). Glenkens Gazette page 25 Glenkens Gazette Anyone Fancy a Game of Pétanque? French bowles, or pétanque, is an outdoor game in which players roll their boules/balls towards a target ball. The objective is to score points by having boules closer to the target than the opponent after all boules have been thrown. The game is normally and best played on hard dirt or gravel, and the beauty of the game is you only need a small space and you don’t have to bend down, as with conventional green bowling, which means it’s great for those who are less mobile. John McCulloch of New Galloway wondered if there’s anyone in the area who may fancy getting together for a game now and then? Perhaps in time a local pétanque club could be formed if there was enough interest. If this sounds like something you would be interested in, you can get in touch with John on 07753 367 167. page 26 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 Glenkens Gazette page 27 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: Sam Rushton 07741 656 601 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 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 Many events and activities are still on hold at the time of going to print due to COVID-19. Please check government guidelines for up-to-date information on social activities during February and March. GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Glenkens Community Shop: Contact Shirley McNaught on 07955 743 022 or drop by the charity shop on Main Street, Dalry Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact Ros Hill on ros.hill@rathanhouse.co.uk Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett on 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 on williamsoncarylann@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact Sam Rushton on 07741 656601 or samCEW@newgallowaycommunity.shop or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins on 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 Bright Stars - Glenkens Community Nursery: Contact glenkenscommunitynursery@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie on 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: Church services have had to stop again at the time of preparing this piece. When they are able to resume they will be at 11am, and at the following venues: 1st Sunday each month – Balmaclellan; 2nd Sunday each month - Carsphairn; 3rd Sunday each month – Kells; 4th Sunday each month – Dalry. The local Church of Scotland congregations are continuing to prepare weekly prayers and reflections that can be accessed on YouTube under ‘Balmaclellan, Kells and Dalry linked with Carsphairn’. The services include hymns and songs and the whole service is accompanied by pictures of the Glenkens. David is also happy to send these directly to people by e-mail if they contact him at DBartholomew@churchofscotland.org. uk. Paper copies can also be provided to those who do not have internet access. Contact him at 01644 430380 if you would like to receive these resources, or simply if you would like to have a chat. SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: Services at St Margaret’s, New Galloway, are currently suspended due to COVID-19 restrictions but please see website for up-to-date information as well as weekly reflections, https:// stmargaretsnewgalloway.org or call 01644 420 259. 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 28 Blackcraig Community Fund Reopens You may already have heard of the Blackcraig Wind Farm Community Fund which got up and running in 2019. The fund is provided through community benefit monies paid annually by the owner of Blackcraig wind farm and is run in partnership between Glenkens and District Trust (GDT) and Foundation Scotland. GDT exists to resource and enable community development and makes the decisions on grant awards, guiding the strategic priorities of the fund. GDT are all drawn from the local community and led by an independent chair, Fiona Smith. If you’re interested in becoming a trustee, please get in touch. Foundation Scotland is a national grantmaking charity whose communities team specialise in supporting community benefit arrangements. On Blackcraig Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund, Foundation Scotland provides development work, grantmaking support and fund administration. Blackcraig’s fund manager is Foundation Scotland’s south of Scotland communities team manager, also a Glenkens resident, Suzy Mercer. Last year, despite lockdown, more than £104,000 was awarded through the Community Fund during 2020, with just under £10,000 also provided in additional COVID-19 Emergency Fund grants. This year the fund has just over £336,000 available for distribution and reopens to applications on 1 February. Fiona Smith, chair of GDT, says: “We recognise this is still a difficult time for many organisations and groups to plan their activities, but we very much encourage people to get their ideas in for consideration if they can – Foundation Scotland are on hand to help with preapplication advice and support”. Online and telephone-based one-to-one information sessions will be available to book in February and March if you want to talk through your ideas before the application deadline of 6 April 2021. For further details on how to book, go to Foundation Scotland’s website or email suzy@foundationscotland.org.uk Applying is straightforward and GDT is keen to see applications that reflect community priorities in the area, particularly those set out in the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan. If you haven’t see this plan yet, there should still be some copies in your nearest village shop or you can view it online at the website below. The Fund is open to constituted groups based in or benefitting the residents of the community council areas of Balmaclellan, Balmaghie, Carsphairn, Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham, Crossmichael, Dunscore, Glencairn, New Galloway & Kells, Parton and St John’s Town of Dalry. Groups can apply for grants between £500 and £25,000 for projects or activities that will help the communities become more connected, asset rich, economically flourishing or carbon neutral. To find out more visit www. foundationscotland.org.uk/ programmes/blackcraig or email suzy@ foundationscotland.org.uk or visit Twitter and Facebook @glenkenstrust - 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 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 APR/MAY COPY DEADLINE: 5 MAR Design & co-ordination: Sarah Ade sarah.ade@gmail.com Printing: www.instantprint.co.uk 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. 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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 2021 ISSUE 123 FREE Councillor Proposes Ward Summit to Discuss Local Road Conditions The surge in construction activity associated with the Windy Rig and South Kyle windfarms over recent months has exposed the woeful inadequacy of the Glenkens roads network to cope with the sheer volume and weight of the exponential increase in HGV traffic. Road surfaces are being pummelled into potholed submission as huge vehicles – from wood wagons clearing timber from the South Kyle site and aggregate lorries to cement trucks and low level transporters carrying heavy plant and machinery – thunder along country lanes that are not designed for such treatment. Council road repair gangs are finding it difficult to keep up with the amount of remedial work needed. a daily basis. In Carsphairn, the owners Matters came to a head a few weeks ago of a successful B&B – which has won when, in separate incidents, two 80-tonne numerous accommodation awards over multi-wheeled cranes heading to Windy the years – have sold up and moved away Rig toppled off the B729 (Carsphairn to because they could see the writing on the Moniaive road) and a temporarily widened wall for tourism in the face of creeping section of the C35s (Lorg Road), creating industrialisation. Now the village’s second badly damaged road surfaces and verges B&B is also on the market. and necessitating extended road closures Continued on p2... for crane recovery and repair work. This latest episode brings into sharp focus the extent to which Glenkens roads cannot deal with the size, weight and relentlessness of windfarm and commercial forestry related vehicles which are a consequence of the current increasing industrial development of our rural environment. But it is not just the roads and the countryside which are suffering. Lives and livelihoods are Tight fit... two HGVs try to pass each other on the narrow B729. being affected on Sustainable Transport in the Glenkens Galloway Community Transport (GCT) has been travelling in new directions and some exciting developments are afoot. The Smiddy in Balmaclellan, which will be available to use for free. Finally, GCT are initiating an ebike hire scheme to allow residents and visitors to try ecycling and, if they enjoy it, to be able to hire bikes as and when they want. Starting out With sustainable local transport a key aim of the recently published Glenkens & District Community Action Plan, now is the perfect time for GCT to move into carbonzero transport. With this in mind, GCT have purchased a brand new ecar, which is available for a variety of community uses. Also, an ecar charging port will be installed at A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative with six bikes the project aims to expand the fleet as demand requires and possibly to encourage people to acquire their own ebikes. Turn to p6 for full article... This Gazette has been delivered thanks to support from CatStrand. See centre-page pull-out guide for CatStrand's new online platform. CatStrand reopening see p2! www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 CONCERNS OVER GLENKENS ROADS Continued from front page... Jim and Fiona Clubb have been forced to shut down their hay delivery business because of the disruption caused by stranded HGVs persistently blocking the B729 access to and from their premises at Blackmark. “The situation has come to a head for us personally, and we have made the decision to close our hay delivery business,” says Fiona. “It is now unsustainable because of the chaos on the public road. This is also in light of the disruption continuing for at least the next 10 years.” The severely potholed roads with crumbling verges and very few passing places have created logistical difficulties for local delivery businesses and supermarkets taking groceries to outlying homes. And whenever there are road closures, traffic delays are compounded by the necessity for huge detours. With the prospect of ever more windfarms and commercial forestry schemes throughout the Glenkens in the pipeline, the end is nowhere in sight for local residents who have grown weary and worried about the over development of the area and the day-to-day damage it is causing to their way of life – not to mention their emotional and psychological wellbeing. Things have reached such a state that local D&G councillor Pauline Drysdale is proposing a ward summit with council officers, community councillors, wind farm representatives and constituents to discuss the infrastructure and roads network in and around the windfarms and across the immediate area. The aim of the meeting is to improve management and communications with a focus on winter management as an additional factor. Its objective is also to facilitate better relationships between contractors, windfarm management and D&G Council and to clarify where each tier of responsibility lies. The A713 has the designation of ‘tourist route from Gretna to Ayr’ but currently – in the absence of visitors because of SCOUT GROUP Diana, our Beaver leader, has decided to step down after more than 20 years of service to the Glenkens Scout Group. She has been an inspiration to the other Leaders and youngsters she has served so faithfully. We would also like to thank Jim and Chrissie who gave up their time latterly and ably assisted Diana in making the colony meetings such a happy place to be. Beavers are boys and girls aged 6-8 years and their motto is “Fun and friendship”. We are now looking to recruit new Beaver Leaders. This may suit two parents who have children in the age bracket or someone just interested. As, like everyone else, Scouting has been badly hit by the pandemic we have not been able to hold our AGM. What we do know is we are looking for a new chairman, treasurer and secretary. Again all these posts have been held by Catherine, Heidi and Lynn for many years and we are most grateful to all three for their commitment in their time of office. We are appealing to parents or anyone in the Glenkens who would be interested in filling any of these positions. In line with National Scout Guidelines, we are still on red, which means no face-to-face meetings but hopefully it won't be too long before it moves to green, and we can meet again. Any queries on the vacant positions please ring Heather on 01644 420 375. Thank you, Heather (Cub Scout Leader) coronavirus restrictions – the road has taken on a new mantle of ‘windfarm construction access’. It’s a title that will probably continue for many years to come... Nigel Martin Pictured: Bottom - photos of the crane which toppled off the Lorg Road, and its recovery, taken by Joe Ade (see p29 for more on this). Below - an example of road edges crumbling under the weight of traffic. CatStrand Reopening Further to the government announcement on 16 March, CatStrand is planning to reopen on Monday 26 April at 11am. The café will be open with outdoor and indoor tables and the gift shop will also open again. Numbers and households at tables will be restricted in accordance with government guidance. Some limited indoor activities and classes may be able to start back from 17 May. We are really looking forward to welcoming everyone back on 26 April but please note that this was the planned date at the time of going to press based on the government advice at that time and may be subject to subsequent change. Please see www.catstrand.com for latest updates. Glenkens Gazette page 3 Remembering Simon Winstanley A gentle and kind soul, we remember Simon Winstanley who sadly passed away on Tuesday 9 March 2021. He and his late wife, Annie, made a wonderful life in the Glenkens for themselves and their four children. A widely respected architect, Simon built a successful local career and achieved the highest accolade in his field, an RIBA award, for the house he designed and lived in for the last ten years - The Houl, on the High Carsphairn road. Simon enjoyed his brief period as a grandfather of two and these grandchildren, along with the many more who may come along, will learn about their grandfather through shared memories of his love of and dedication to his family and friends, his passion for architecture and music, and his heartfelt connection to the Scottish countryside which inspired him in so many ways. Simon will be greatly missed but his memory will continue to live on, spreading joy for many years to come through the buildings and living spaces he designed. Simon is pictured with his first grandchild, Maisie Lou Winstanley Gonzalez. LOCAL FOOD KEEPS GROWING Despite the continued lockdown, the work to stimulate a local food economy has not gone away. In February, market organisers started looking at the possibility of a click-andcollect style market using the online hub set up last year for pre-orders. The online hub opened at the beginning of March, giving customers ten days to order, and was advertised via social media and local posters. Shopping to choose from included jams, homegrown veg, The Glenkens Producers Market has plants, tarts, cakes, cheese and liqueurs. found a way to keep going and supply It was very successful and people were good food to local people; and off the obviously keen to support local food with heels of the recent Glenkens Summit many quickly getting on board and taking there will be a project to investigate advantage of the new system. aspirations and barriers around the supply On market day, customers were and demand for local produce. allocated a time slot for collecting their The January and February markets items from Dalry Town Hall and most did not go ahead, lockdown restrictions stayed about for a quick socially distanced creating a bit of rest for producers and outdoor chat. the opportunity to plan ahead for the The market on 10 April will be the same market volunteers. arrangement, so check the hub website from early April to see what’s on offer – new producers will be coming on board with exciting products! (See ad on p19 for details). In May, the market volunteers are planning for a big re-opening. Volunteer Lesley Blisset said: “It’ll be all singing, all dancing, bells and whistles - an event not to be missed!” In addition to the great range of producers, plans also include an outdoor café area, entertainment, community information stalls and more. If you would like a slot on the busking pitch, please contact Anne Chaurand at anne. chaurand@btinternet.com or A customer at March's click-and-collect 07846 252 848. Musicians, Glenkens Producers Market. jugglers, magicians and more all welcome! The event will be on Saturday 8 May from 10am to 1pm. Glenkens Community Transport (GCT) will run a shuttle bus from New Galloway and Balmaclellan to Dalry to help people get to the market. Other stops can also be arranged - please get in touch with GCT manager Glen to 07841 512 449 to arrange a pick-up. Building on the increasing success of the market, local sustainable food enterprise Propagate has the task of digging deeper into the needs, aspirations and barriers facing producers and consumers across the Glenkens. A scoping study will seek to find out what food is currently available locally, how people access it and where the gaps are. This will include looking at existing and potential food production and ways this can reach local markets – from locally grown veg to locally produced dairy and meat products. Propagate will work collaboratively to create to a routemap for a resilient local food system, with elements that can be developed into projects. If you’re a local food producer looking to get your product to local people, if you’re involved in supply chains or food retail, or if you have a great idea that can increase the diversity of available local food, your voice needs to be heard. Please get in touch at the email address below. The scoping study will also talk to people about how and where to access local food including box schemes, shops, cafés and delivery services. Find out more about this work by contacting Abi at abi@propagate.org.uk or 07340 531 506. Glenkens Gazette page 4 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 Horse manure (including some chicken), rotted and fresh, no weed killers used. Dig your own from a large heap, bring sacks or trailer. Contact: 07889 229 340 90mm plastic scoops, small square plastic boxes with handles and lids (will stack) roughly 3kg and 1.8kg (good for use as compost caddies). Bottle brush and syphon tube for wine making. I would also like to say thank you for all the generous people sending used stamps for the horse charity – keep them coming! Contact: Sue 07563 718 011 FOR SALE 2x 2metre plastic curtain tracks with hooks and fittings. Contact: 07724 878 796 Oil tank. Contact: 07703 303 805 Any drummers out there? I'm clearing out the shed, drums & bits, 3 drums, some cases, cymbal stand, spare parts stands, etc. Contact: Blue on 07934 361 526 Sewing Machine, needs a little maintenance to get it working properly. Contact: 01644 430 380 Bath lift, £50, full working order when last used. Mr Samuel Fisher: 01644 420 843 WANTED LING would welcome any spare paving slabs to help with making muddy sections of walks passable. Please phone David Hardy on 01644 420 422. 2-drawer filing cabinet. Contact: 01644 420 267 Fridge-freezer. Contact: 07952 280 902 Old lawn mowers/strimmers/ other small machinery. Non-runners/broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 Glenkens Gazette page 5 sponsored by SIGNAGE TO SUPPORT LOCH KEN New signage installed on the west bank of Loch Ken is the latest mark of progress by partners around the loch, helping to provide information and encourage responsible behaviour from visitors. Loch Ken is the largest body of freshwater in Southern Scotland, hosting a variety of users and groups. Loch Ken Trust was established to “promote the natural, cultural and recreational assets of the Loch Ken area for the benefit of the public and to support sustainable local communities.” Work is proceeding on several fronts under this aim, both on a strategic level but also – of equal importance – making tangible improvements around the loch itself. This week sees the installation of three new signs on the west bank of the loch which set out guidelines for use of the loch, outlining how to obtain a fishing permit, how to register a motorboat and other information. Loch Ken Trust chairman, Alan Smith, said: "Loch Ken Trust has identified the need for better, coherent signage around the loch. A good first step last year was the installation of a new information board at the public slipway on the east bank and we are now delighted to have worked with New Galloway Angling Association to install three new signs on their stretch of the west bank. A lot of thought has gone into the physical design of these signs as it was important that, whilst providing a lot of important information, they also sit well in their beautiful locations.” If you would like to get in touch with the Loch Ken Trust, or if you would like to join as a member, please contact Barnaby Fryer, Loch Ken Trust Officer at barnaby.fryer@ lochkenalive.co.uk Loch Ken is the largest body of freshwater in Southern Scotland... 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 6 New Directions for Galloway Community Transport The COVID-19 lockdown has had a big impact on community transport in the Glenkens/ Stewartry area, mainly restricting services or stopping them altogether. However, while keeping as many existing services running as safely as possible, Galloway Community Transport (GCT) has been travelling in new directions. With sustainable local transport a key aim of the recently published Glenkens & District Community Action Plan and the Glenkens now part of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere, now is the perfect time for GCT to move into carbon-zero transport. LEADER funding awarded to Glenkens Community & Arts Trust’s Connecting in Communities project has allowed GCT to acquire an electric car that will benefit the community in a variety of ways. With full wheelchair access and four additional passenger seats the ecar is ideal for transporting small groups and people with disabilities. Since mid-January, the car has become a familiar sight around the Stewartry with Castle Douglas Golden Day Club using it for their meal delivery service and GCT drivers taking pupils to school. Economic to run and environmentally friendly, the car looks set to find a range of other uses such as taking people to events, local patient transport and getting young people to employment interviews. The network of e-vehicle charge points across the region is growing all the time and cash from Glenkens & District Trust and the Blackcraig Windfarm Community Fund is paying for the installation of a freeto-use one at The Smiddy in to encourage people to acquire their own ebikes. The plan is for there to be ebikes based at New Galloway (CatStrand), Balmaclellan (The Smiddy), and Dalry (location to be announced) which can be booked online or by telephone for a modest charge. Full details will be available soon on the GCT website (www. gallowaycommunitytransport. org). There will also be bike shelters at The Smiddy and CatStrand with a public bike maintenance station at the latter, for the use of local and visiting cyclists. The launch of GCT Ebikes is scheduled to take place at the CatStrand on Saturday 29 May, with ‘have-ago’ rides, introductory talks, and showings of Motherload, a wonderful, crowdsourced documentary about the history of cycling and "how cargo bikes will save the world". Volunteers are needed to help with checking bikes out and in and with other aspects of the administration of the scheme. If you are based locally and would like to volunteer to help with the GCT ebike scheme please contact GCT Manager, Glen, by email on gct@catstrand. com ...GCT’s ebike hire scheme will allow residents and visitors to try ecycling and, if they enjoy it, to be able to hire bikes as and when they want. GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 Balmaclellan which will attract visiting electric vehicles and become one of the ecar’s bases. What better way to help keep people fit and reduce air pollution than getting as many people as possible cycling? Ebikes make cycling more accessible to more people than the non-assisted variety and they are a great way to get from place to place for work, socialising or simply for pleasure. With funding from Cycling Scotland and the Transport Scotland Energy Saving Trust, GCT’s ebike hire scheme will allow residents and visitors to try ecycling and, if they enjoy it, to be able to hire bikes as and when they want. Starting out with six bikes the project aims to expand the fleet as demand requires and possibly Pictured is Martin Fortnum of the Castle Douglas Golden Day Club using the new ecar to deliver meals during the pandemic. Glenkens Gazette page 7 Many a Mickle Maks a Muckle The Inaugural Glenkens Community Summit The inaugural Glenkens Summit took place online in March. The summit was the first in what it is hoped will become a series of similar events and was organised by Glenkens & District Trust (GDT) with the support of Community Enterprise. The event provided an opportunity to discuss and debate some of the big issues for the Glenkens communities and think about what these might mean for the review of the five-year Glenkens & District Community Action Plan. While GDT took the lead in organising the event we, as a fund distribution body, have the primary purpose of resourcing and enabling community development rather than carrying out projects. Therefore the natural next steps will be to identify and support, in an open and transparent manner, community organisations that want to get involved in implementing the plan. The summit was open to the whole community and to anyone with an interest in the Glenkens. We were delighted that 102 people attended on the night. During a busy and stimulating two hours, the audience got a brief update from Douglas Westwater, CEO of Community Enterprise, on the early work underway with different community groups around short term priorities as set out in the plan. There was helpful feedback about some areas that needed further consideration, such as work to maintain the biodiversity of the area, the outdoor ‘assets’ and the problems in some areas of poor broadband service. We then heard from three inspiring speakers. Ailsa Clarke, Development Manager of Inspiralba, a social enterprise consultancy based in Argyll and Bute and developer of the digital Rural Social Enterprise Hub, spoke about rurality and community development. Neil McInroy, CEO of the Centre for Local Economic Strategies, spoke about Community Wealth Building and the positive move to create a more local economy in the Glenkens. And finally Phillip Revell, Chair of Scottish Communities Climate Action Network, spoke about community-led action to address the climate emergency. There were questions from the audience on what is needed for effective community involvement in decision making, what practical steps we as a community can take to address the climate emergency, how we should think about the local energy economy and, in developing the plan, how we ensure that benefits flowing from the work remain in the community for the long term. Some messages that really resonated with the audience included the need to have many small things working together to create something good (Neil McInroy reminding of us the good Scots phrase:”Many a Mickle Maks a Muckle”); the need to nurture and support community groups to take risks and try new things; and the imperative to make the climate emergency an essential part of our thinking. All the speakers identified community involvement as key to success and suggested different means to achieve this. an absolutely brilliant summit. The innovation, ambition and passion shines through. Fantastic speakers and really exciting plans.” As one community member attending said later: “Last evening’s event was an excellent interaction, large number of people, lots of energy and ideas.” We will consider the points raised in the meeting, as well as in other discussions, and feed these into on-going development of the plan. An important next step will be to identify how delivery plans for identified projects can be created and what capabilities and organisations are needed to enable this. Underpinning this there is a need to agree how we as a community want to oversee, monitor and evolve the plan. This will include considering the current Steering Group membership, processes and resources. ...the need to have many small things working together to create something good...”Many a Mickle Maks a Muckle”... The thought provoking comments from the floor fed into smaller group discussions where people had the opportunity to get into some detail about the four thematic areas of the Community Action Plan. The event was ably concluded by Jane Morrison-Ross, who has recently taken on the role of Chief Executive of South of Scotland Enterprise and who personally tweeted after the event “What THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm 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  01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS Kindling available  Please feedback any views to Douglas Westwater of Community Enterprise, at douglas@communityenterprise.co.uk or Fiona Smith, chairman of Glenkens & District Trust, at Fiona.Smith1@btinternet. com Fiona Smith, chairman, GDT Glenkens Gazette page 8 Hello from Dalry & Kells Primary Schools Over the last few weeks, I have noticed birds beginning to sing, buds appearing on the trees, new spring lambs and, more recently, frogspawn. Spring is here and a renewed feeling of optimism is in the air. Likewise, our Primary 1-3 children have been back a few weeks and this week were joined by their Primary 4-7 peers. In school, there was a sense of excitement, of happiness to be with friends after such a long time. I could feel the same sense of optimism (a new beginning) as I walked around the playground and put my head around the classroom doors. The children know the drill - hand washing, trying to be distanced and which doors to use, etc. The sun shone, and everything went smoothly as everyone came into school. Staff, having learnt much from two lockdowns and remote learning, are continuing to think about how the different ways of using technology can benefit teaching in the classroom. During lockdown, many children enjoyed family activities such as cooking and shared pictures of their completed dishes on our closed Facebook page. Children also shared pictures of the wide variety of school-based and nonschool-based activities. This continued as children were given opportunities to share things they had done. One child shared with the class that he had been helping with the lambing and talked about a photograph he had sent in. He looked like a real vet in miniature! Some budding writers and journalists from across the two schools worked together using Microsoft Teams during the latest lockdown. They designed, wrote articles for, and published the first edition of The Scribbler. What an amazing, good read! Thank you to all the children and staff who participated to bring this to fruition. This is going to be our schools-based magazine which we hope to extend further to community readership and maybe even rival the Glenkens Gazette! (See page opposite for more on The Scribbler). Similarly, Paul Goodwin, a retired colleague has given up a lot of his valuable time to create a series of videos for us to use for a writers' club across the schools. The videos draw on Paul's experience and studies into writing short stories and other genres of creative writing. Thank you Paul. Members of the community have also worked hard on our behalf during lockdown. I would like to take the opportunity to thank them for their support. Members form the community group Local Initiatives For Dalry (LIFD) have raised money so we can buy books for use in school, a much-appreciated action and we thank them for this. We have seen many acts of kindness and the community coming together to support one another and again, thank you to all concerned. If I have not mentioned you by name, please accept my apologies and know that you are very much appreciated. Moving forwards, like the march of spring as it gains momentum towards summer, we will go forth. Even though there is still dismay and challenges, we have much to look forward to, much to be optimistic about and much to hope for. Happy Easter everyone! Paul Scrimshaw, Glenkens Partnership head teacher Pictured above are pupils out on the playing field for PE, happy to be with thier friends enjoying the spring sunshine. PUPILS COMMUNITY FUNDRAISER Can you help give young people in the Glenkens a boost this summer? Every two years P6 and P7 pupils from Dalry and Kells schools have a residential trip to Edinburgh. It’s an opportunity the children look forward to with huge excitement – a rite of passage as they grow in independence and an opportunity for the young people from both schools to get to know each other better in preparation for High School. Among all the disruption to learning caused by COVID-19, it is looking likely that this year’s P7 cohort will miss out on the trip as well as the usual activities that form part of the transition to High School and celebrations that mark the end of their time at Primary. However, parents and carers are hoping to provide an alternative for this year’s P7s and are planning to offer a local weekend camping trip led by parent and carer volunteers later in the summer term if restrictions allow. With this in mind, Kells and Dalry parent councils have launched a community ‘Go Fund Me’ campaign to help fund this and to give all Glenkens young people a boost at this difficult time. We hope this will be an opportunity for the community to show support, especially as the usual fundraising activities and events the children would be doing are not possible just now. All money raised will help fund camping and activity fees for the P7 trip and the purchase of outdoor equipment for use by young people of all ages, to help make gathering safely outside to socialise and learn easier and more accessible. Everything raised will be divided proportionately between the two parent councils and will help us secure additional funding from other sources. If a lot of us contribute just a small amount, we will soon be on our way to making this happen! You can contribute easily though our Go Fund Me page - visit www. gofundme.com and search for Give Glenkens Young People a Boost. Alternatively you can send cash or a cheque made payable to Kells Parent Council, posted to Kells and Dalry Parent Councils Fundraiser, c/o Kells Primary School, Braeside, New Galloway DG7 3RL. Please include that it is a contribution to the outdoors fund, and your name and address if you would like to receive a ‘thank you’! If you would like more information, please contact maryzair@gmail.com Glenkens Gazette page 9 GLENKENS SCHOOLS MAGAZINE Over lockdown and during another period of remote learning, a dedicated and talented group of P1-7 pupils from Dalry and Kells Primaries have been creating a very special magazine for kids that they call The Scribbler. This writing project, the brain-child of class teacher Jenna Devlin, came about through discussion with pupils and staff and the consensus that there was a need for a project that the pupils could collaborate together on through these tricky times. The Scribbler, a magazine for ‘inquisitive kids,’ has been planned, designed, developed and edited solely by the pupils. This has been a momentous task in its own right as it has all had to be done independently and online at home. The finished first issue is a real testament to the pupils’ grit, determination, talent and resilience as they adapted to new ways of working and sharing online with their peers. Jenna said: “I am extremely proud of every single member of The Scribbler, what they have produced is very special and really showcases the talent that we are so lucky to have in our Primary Schools. The dedication that this group of children have shown has astounded me with the pupils each week turning up to online meetings, meeting set deadlines and producing quality pieces for publishing. I just can’t wait to see what the next issue brings!” If you would like to take a look at The Scribbler, there is a link on the Glenkens Gazette Facebook page through the post on 10 March. If you would like to include anything in our magazine please get in touch with Jenna at gw08devlinjenna@glow.sch.uk - we are always so keen to include articles from members of our community, to share with our school community. Jenna Devlin Glenkens Gazette page 10 Lockdown '21: A Teacher's Perspective Daffodils and spring flowers are beginning to come into bloom; shoots are appearing on trees and leaves are beginning to unfurl. Schools too are beginning to emerge from lockdown hibernation and open up. February saw our youngest pupils back in school, along with some senior pupils studying practical subjects who need to work on completing their practical assignments. For both pupils and staff that has been an exciting step – the small change in routine back to some sort of ‘normality’; meeting up with others than just your nearest and dearest at home! Have we ever all been so excited about the prospect of a return to school?? It has been wonderful to see pupils face-to-face again – albeit at a two metre distance with face masks on, looking as though we’re extras in a Bond movie. It has been wonderful to do some ‘proper’ work again, rather than being tied to a computer. In my case, as a music teacher, actually being able to play music together with others. Singing is proving a challenge for pupils who have voice as their first instrument. We’re not allowed to sing indoors, but we can outdoors. So far, we’ve managed to avoid going out in the rain – we’ve had one sunny day and one dry but windy day; holding on to our music has been the greatest challenge. It’s been a novelty having a small group of pupils in school – we’ve enjoyed and benefited from this focused time. Pupils say they’ve been able to concentrate better being in school without the distractions that home presents and with the structured support of staff, even though not all subject staff are in school. I’ve enjoyed being in school with them but have found that there are more distractions in school than at home. And I’ve missed the flexibility of working from home – not having the drive to work; being able to work early in the morning/ late at night and not having to be tied to the hours of 9am to 3.30pm. In the meantime, online learning and teaching – home school learning and teaching – continues. It has been a challenge for us all – staff, pupils, parents. It has been especially hard for those of us teaching practical subjects and for those trying to learn practical subjects. But we have managed. My creativity has been challenged in coming up with work that can be done online, and trying to retain a practical element in that. It has been fascinating to see how pupils have engaged with the work – sometimes in a way that is expected; sometimes in a way that is completely unique as pupils display their ‘creative’ approach to the tasks set; you never quite know what you’re going to get! It has been interesting to see how pupils have progressed since the lockdown a year ago. How much more skilled they – and we – are at coping with the challenges/work/ requirements. It’s only by experiencing events such as these and learning how to cope with them that we build resilience. Building resilience is a difficult learning experience, but it’s obvious from the contrast between lockdown 2020 and lockdown 2021 that pupils are becoming more resilient. Returning to school on a fuller basis and being able to see everyone face-to-face is something we’re all looking forward to. Will we recognise one another with our lockdown hair styles? We’re looking forward to finding out more about how people are; what’s been going on in their lives; how they’ve been coping. Whilst there is a level of anxiety about how it’s all going to work, it will be good for everyone’s wellbeing to be back together. We’ve been ‘in it together’ in our own little bubble; it will be good to take the next step of being ‘in it together’ in the Dalry bubble. As with everything to do with this pandemic, adapting to the changes has been a challenge. At the end of the Christmas term, the mood was upbeat and optimistic; the prospect of a return to ‘normality’ seemed imminent. Then the world turned upside down with the news of the new variant of COVID and we were back into lockdown. By February, we had just got used to being in lockdown and the prospect of bringing even a limited number of pupils back into school was daunting. But we’ve risen to the challenge and coped! The return of all pupils on a phased basis in March is the next change and challenge – another daunting prospect, but together we’ll cope and make it work. We are resilient! And we’ll hope that the plans for next term will see a return to a more normal way of life – both in school and out of it. Sue St Joseph, music teacher, Dalry Secondary Wednesday Afternoon Activities Part of Dalry Secondary School's music study related to one of a series of challenges set during lockdown 2020 by the Royal Scottish National Opera (RSNO). This challenge concerned breath control and was set by the RSNO’s principal trombonist Dávur Juul Magnussen. The three challenges he set for this exercise were: • Pin the Fiver – how long could you ‘pin a fiver’ to the wall just by blowing on it? (5.18 secs). • Blow a Candle – what’s the furthest distance from which you can blow out a candle? (133cm) • Immerse the Balloon – blow up a balloon and immerse it in a bucket of water. How much water do you displace? (5.5 litres) Izak Entwhistle chose to have a go at these three challenges, with spectacular results, and a little ‘help’! Here are Izak's results... Pin the Fiver - I used a £20 note because we did not have a fiver. It stood up for 5.5 seconds. Blow a Candle - I originally did the candle blowing on a table but our table wasn’t big enough, so I went on to the floor instead. I got up to 4.5 feet. While I was doing the candle challenge my dog decided to interrupt it and lick me... Immerse the Balloon - When I watched the video, I thought that you had to blow up a balloon and dunk it into some water, but I did not realise that you had to measure it until I’d already done it, so I had to do it again. The result is six litres. Pictured is Izak completing the challenges - top left is Immerse the Balloon, top right is Pin the Fiver (or £20), and to the right is Blow the Candle, with help from the dog (see the candle and measuring tape behind Isak's canine helper). Glenkens Gazette page 11 Local Initiatives In New Galloway What's-a-cooking in New Galloway Town Hall? Taking advantage of lockdown, and considerably assisted by grant support and permissions from Dumfries & Galloway Council, we have been able to embark on some major renovations. A spanking new kitchen is being installed, complete with a fabulous ‘community-sized’ range cooker and a long-awaited commercial dishwasher. This means we will comply with health and hygiene requirements and the kitchen will be of value for all kinds of community events, including cooking lessons or group cook-ins. A specially created lower worktop section will provide space suitable for children or wheelchairusers. The photograph gives an inkling of the interim chaos involved, illustrating why lockdown is a good time for getting ahead with this work! We are also in the process of replacing the downstairs gents-only toilets with two unisex toilets. At last ladies will no longer have to face the climb up to the first floor to access a toilet, as for some this is daunting, if not impossible. What is more, one of the new toilets will be a fully compliant disabled toilet, achieving accessibility at least for any events taking place in the Lesser Hall. We are so fortunate to have a retired architect on our board managing this project. Glynne Shackleton joined us a year ago and has been worth his weight in gold. As you can imagine, we are very excited about all this and very much looking forward to the time when we can open our doors and welcome everyone in to see what has been achieved. LING Lockdown Lunches Although LING Lunches in the Town Hall have had to be suspended, we have been able to offer a lockdown lunch delivered to your door once a month. We had an amazing 44 orders for the February lunch, which had Dawn Spernagel of ‘Love to Eat’ rushed off her feet in her kitchen preparing soups, breads and puddings ready to bag up for volunteers to deliver. Unfortunately, we can only include New Galloway and Kells households in this offer as numbers might otherwise overwhelm us. It has been interesting to find that, although people are having to heat up and eat their lunch in their own homes, it nevertheless feels like a bit of community contact. Perhaps just knowing the experience is being shared by others at the same time makes the food taste even better! A Brew and a Blether We have started up a regular online Zoom chat opportunity on Tuesdays at 2pm. Lockdown lunchers, in particular, are invited to drop in to say hello to familiar faces, but anyone can come along. It’s been surprisingly lovely to have a proper chance to chat, rather than just pausing in the street in the cold - and it’s so friendly. We divide up into small groups of around four, rather as you would if you sat at a table in the hall. Talking to a whole roomful of people (or a whole screenful if you’re on Zoom) is not very comfortable, but suddenly finding yourself with just a few smiling faces, for ten minutes or so at a time, is quite a treat. I think we have all been astonished at how nice it feels. If you’d like a Zoom invitation to drop in on a Tuesday, please just email us at newgallowaytownhall@gmail.com - the only downside is that you have to bring your own tea and biscuits. This project is a collaboration with New Galloway Community Enterprises and anyone in New Galloway and Kells who hasn’t tried Zooming and would like some help to get started, please get in touch. Help is at hand (grant-aided) and that includes not only friendly expertise, from the IT Centre in Castle Douglas, but also the possibility of equipment and internet access on loan from New Galloway’s community engagement worker, Sam Rushton. Broadening our Board The Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING) AGM took place on 25 February, by Zoom - a first-time for everyone, but it all seemed to work satisfactorily (sighs of relief all round). We were delighted to be introducing and welcoming our three new trustees, Lynn Gallacher, Mary Smith and Jude Crooks. Between them, they bring a wide range of valuable experience and expertise to the LING board, which is going to be a huge help. They also dramatically reduce the average age of the board – another very welcome benefit. The continuing board members are Ros Hill, David Hardy, Glynne Shackleton, and Ann and Bob Glaister. Walking Our Way to Health We have talked before about the pathway clearances, descriptions of the walks and the Walled Garden, with lots of detail now available on our website newgallowaytownhall.com Recent discussions have been about planning guided walks or outings for families, perhaps for children or young people. Some events offering chances to join in the volunteering to carry out repairs and improvements are also envisaged. As these ideas are firmed up, we will provide details on posters, on our Facebook page and on our website. So much is known now about the health-giving value of walking or even just being outdoors and we have such wonderful places on our doorstep. It has been lovely to know how many people are beginning to try out some of the walks that Gerry Cinderby and David Hardy have cleared and described. It’s not just about physical health either. We’re all going to be struggling a bit as we emerge from this stressful time, and who knows when it will be truly over. Being outdoors, whether striding out, wandering through woodland, or enjoying the gentle peace in the lovely Garroch Estate walled garden – all can offer balm to the soul. A Stitch in Time Finally, a delightful new fund-raising venture. John Johnes has offered to repair antique or vintage sewing machines in return for a donation to LING’s new 'Crafty Group'. The intention is to support opportunities for developing new skills. The machine may be yours to keep for posterity or it may be that you want to sell it on subsequently. Some will also be offered for sale. Enquiries to John at jjohnes@gmx.com or on 07731 548626. The first one for sale in Ros’s window display, sold within a few hours. I remember learning on one just like that as a child! Ann Glaister Pictured are, top, the fitting of the new kitchen in New Galloway Town Hall and, left, the Stitch in Time project sewing machine for sale. Glenkens Gazette page 12 Carsphairn History Goes Global It has been a monumental journey of discovery for Carsphairn Heritage Initiative (CHI) since embarking upon ambitious plans to digitise their vast collection of local historical photographs, documents and artefacts, collected over the last 30-plus years. In 2017 the group set out to collate and scan thousands of items and present them as a digital heritage archive via the Carsphairn community website. The project was designed to make the collection accessible to anyone anywhere in the world; make previously inaccessible material available to visitors, researchers and anyone with an interest in the cultural and social history of Carsphairn and, most importantly, preserve the collection and the wealth of local heritage information it contains by presenting it in an engaging, userfriendly manner. During the three-year programme Carsphairn Heritage Initiative (formerly Carsphairn Heritage Group) has received funding to support the project from Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP) ‘Our Heritage' small grants scheme. This huge and ambitious task, now complete, sees over 3000 items of local historical interest available to search and view via the Carsphairn community website. The vast collection of items has been donated by local families with a connection to Carsphairn over the last 30 or so years and now has a secure and dedicated home visible to all by visiting www.carsphairn.org/CarsphairnArchive Karen Hall, CHI chairperson, said: “I am delighted that we have successfully completed this ambitious project. It’s been a huge undertaking, some of it in very challenging circumstances." "The dedication of our small team of volunteers, who have worked tirelessly in their own time at home, has been incredibly humbling," said Karen Hall. "They have never lost sight of our shared goal and they should be extremely proud of this wonderful achievement. "I would like to thank all the wonderful contributors to our collection for their generosity and for entrusting their precious donations to us; our hardworking volunteers for their time, patience and motivation especially over the last twelve months; Carsphairn Community Council for enabling us to display our Heritage Archive via their website; and our funders GGLP and Carsphairn Renewable Energy Fund Ltd for their continued financial support. None of this would have been possible without them all and I feel honoured that so many have shared our vision and together we got the job done, ensuring that this nostalgic and historically important information is preserved for future generations”. The interim trustees of CHI were planning to convene their first Annual General Meeting in May 2020 but, due to COVID-19 restrictions, it was postponed. The group will reschedule the meeting for later this year, as soon as it is deemed safe to do so. A new Board of Trustees will be sought and if anyone is interested in becoming a Trustee or simply volunteering some time to the group's future projects then they would be delighted to hear from you. More details here can be found at www.carsphairn.org/CHI or email carsphairnhi@gmail.com The archive still requires some final enhancements and the group are looking for willing participants to volunteer their time transcribing documents such as hand-written letters and poems, newspaper clippings and event programmes. If you have some free time, a good eye and some patience perhaps you might like to help. Further details of how to get involved can be found at carsphairn.org/archive or email carsphairnhi.archive@gmail.com Helen Keron, GGLP education & community engagement officer, said: "The amount of volunteer work that has gone into this project is quite staggering. It must have seemed insurmountable when they started, and now here it is completed. The Carsphairn Digital Archive will be an invaluable and permanent resource for people both near and far wanting to find out more about the history of Carsphairn and the surrounding areas. Hats off to all involved!" Pictured from the Carsphairn Heritage Archive is a photograph are, below, the Salutation Hotel in 1920 and, above, Mr & Mrs Hyslop outside the Carsphairn village shop, pre-1920; one of the photographs from the CHI collection. Glenkens Gazette page 13 Glenkens Gazette page 14 What's Been Happening in Dalry Dalry’s Community Kindness Cupboard An exciting new project for the village can be found outside the front of Dalry Library. Come along and see our Community Kindness Cupboard. Inside you will find a variety of groceries, toiletries, pet food and washing and cleaning products, as well as an assortment of games and books for all ages. The cupboard is for everyone in our community to use. So, if you run out of or need any of the above products just pop along and have a look to see what’s inside - hopefully our Kindness Cupboard will give you a reasonable choice. You can access the kindness cupboard 24/7. The only thing we ask is - please take only what you need and leave for others… “a little treat from us to you, we hope this makes you smile all day through”. It is important that we always follow COVID-19 guidance, so we ask anyone accessing the Kindness Cupboard to sanitise your hands and any replaced items. Please share and respect hopefully sometimes we'll need to borrow something, and another time we'll have something to give to the cupboard. Thursday will be a special day for our Kindness Cupboard as local bakers will be adding fresh produce for the community to share. If you wish to give a donation for the baking, please use the envelopes provided and post it through the letter box at 75 Main Street (house next to library with the blue door). Thanks go to New Galloway Community Enterprise for sharing the funding from The Princes Countryside Fund and the Barscobe Family for providing the community with cupboards. Telephone Box Hopefully everyone will be aware that our old phone box on the Ayr Road is being restored. We are eternally grateful for Duncan Jordan’s ongoing commitment and patience, spending numerous hours at this task - his hard work and dedication is clear for us all to see. We are lucky to have such a generous and skilled member in our community. The future of the telephone box is yet to be decided, so if anyone has ideas and suggestions for its use, please mention it to a member of Dalry Community Council or put your suggestions on the St John’s Town of Dalry Community Council Facebook page. Special thanks should be given to the Glenkens Community Shop, St John’s Town Services and Dalry Community Council for their financial support with this project. Dalry Eco Flower Group Last year this group was set up to add colour to our village and to support people’s mental health. We wanted to show that we care about the people in our community and the environment which we live in. We planted containers of different shapes and sizes, giving us an array of colours, splashed around our village, making it a lovely, cheerful The Community Kindness Cupboard outside Dalry Library. place to live in during what have been incredibly ‘challenging times’. This was only made possible through the commitment of four volunteers - Jane Trueman, Linda Carter, Fiona Davidson and Angie Bradford - along with funding from a 'micro grant' from Dalry Community Council. Plants were generously donated by Dumfries & Galloway Council. Towards the end of the year, bulbs were added to the containers and these will hopefully be seen blooming in soon. The next stage will be to add new plants and more containers to continue to brighten up our village once more. If anyone is interested in helping out with the group please contact Angie on anji1206@hotmail.co.uk or chat to any of the above named people on the street! Supporting Our Community's Children The past year has been so challenging for everyone, but thankfully now our children are heading back to school and hopefully things will settle into something more normal. To help support our children in these challenging times, Dalry Community Council have donated to Dalry Primary School six packs of books that aim to support children’s mental health, and the school were also able to purchase some more books thanks to funding from Local Initiative for Dalry (LIFD). The LIFD donation came from the successful mental health baking stall which was run by local people in the summer - thanks go to those who ran the stall. Angie Bradford & Fiona Davidson Glenkens Gazette page 15 Glenkens Gazette page 16 Glenkens Gazette page 17 Glenkens Gazette page 18 Glenkens Gazette page 19 THE GARDEN SPOT COVID-19 is receding and spring is advancing at a pace. It’s important to keep on top of things or the weeds and wildlife will just take over. Nature abhors a vacuum, so if you have any open soil you need to cover it by planting, sowing or covering it with a mulch otherwise you will find that you have unwittingly got a garden of native species (weeds to you and me). As I write this, we have no idea when the garden centres might reopen so I am resorting to buying all my plants and seeds either online or at the supermarket. One thing about buying plants at the supermarket is that they tend not to be as well kept as garden centre stock - great when they arrive but not so good after a week or so - so try to buy your plants as soon as they arrive in the shop. The tasks mount up at this time of year; prune the roses (I like to finish that by the beginning of April), clean the glass on the greenhouse, get seeds planted (check the packets – some need to wait a few more weeks), check the tree ties are loose enough for a new season’s growth… the jobs never seem to end. Now is also the time to prune your hardy fuchsias and penstemons – down to around two inches high I suggest. Many health professionals are now using ‘green prescriptions’. That is, they New season's promise... are telling people to get out into green spaces for physical exercise but also for mental health. What better way to do this than by gardening? And there is no right and wrong; if your idea of gardening is to paint stones and arrange them in patterns or grow all ‘native species’ for wildlife or have neat rows of marigolds, then all of that is fine. TV’s Beechgrove Garden and Gardeners World, along with Radio 4’s Gardeners Question Time, have all reported an increase in audience figures over the last year so gardening is certainly in the ascendency. We also need to encourage the next generation to have an interest in growing food crops and ornamentals because I believe there will be increased job opportunities in horticulture in the UK because of import complications caused by Brexit. One important job that we always seem to overlook is to take the time to walk around the garden and look and listen, without being tempted into chores. Sit in peace and wonder at nature, the birds flitting about their business and the buds breaking for a new year. I am going to sign off now. I have written this column for the last two-and-a-half years and I hope you have enjoyed my musings. This is my sixteenth and final submission. If anyone is interested in writing on gardening subjects in the future, please contact the editor and I will enjoy reading what others get up to in their garden! The Intrepid Gardener - 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 - 10th April & 8th May - The April market will be Click & Collect only Click & Collect online with the Glenkens Food Hub at https:// openfoodnetwork.org.uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop or just visit us on the day (8 May onwards) - for further details call 07776 034 260 entry by donation on the door (15 miles from Castle Douglas on A713) Glenkens Gazette page 20 ARCHAEOLOGY MEETS POETRY ON THE RAIDERS ROAD Remains of rural life from a remote Raiders Road farmhouse affected by the Lowland Clearances have been brought to life in a new poem for StAnza, Scotland's Poetry Festival. In 2019, archaeologists and volunteers from the Can You Dig It (CYDI) community archaeology programme investigated a deserted farmstead named Upper Gairloch along the Raiders Road which runs through the Galloway Forest Park, beginning near Mossdale. Looking to showcase a fresh perspective on Scotland’s past during the pandemic, Dig It! – a hub for Scottish archaeology – commissioned Mae Diansangu to write a poem inspired by the site. Diansangu is a spoken word artist and performer based in Aberdeen whose work centres on anti-racism, intersectional feminism, and LGBTQ+ rights. They worked online with Claire Williamson, an archaeologist from Rathmell Archaeology and Project Manager for CYDI. In use as a steading since the seventeenth century, the surviving remains of Upper Gairloch consist of a farmhouse rebuilt in the late-eighteenth or early-nineteenth century and a kiln barn of similar date. The CYDI team – who have reworked their programme of talks, workshops and excavations to an online offering during the pandemic - were able to marry up the site’s archaeological record with written sources, such as maps and census records, to piece together the lives of the people who once lived there. A broken slate stylus, for example, was found on the site of the farmhouse and may have been used by the children of Elizabeth McQueen who listed herself as head of the household in the census record of 1851. Following the Lowland Clearances when many land workers were compelled to leave their settlements due to changes in land use, this particular ruined settlement later became part of a larger sheep farm cared for by a shepherd named William Little, who used farm ruins like this one as sheiling huts. Many such steadings, like the Upper Gairloch farmstead, survive today hidden in dense vegetation waiting to be uncovered. Dr Jeff Sanders, Project Manager at the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland’s Dig It! project, said: “Despite the pandemic continuing to postpone community-led archaeological activities, we’re still finding ways to take inspiration from Scotland’s past inhabitants. Diansangu's creativity and empathy helps us reflect on what was important to the these people and ultimately re-examine what is still important to us today.” Helen Keron, Community and Education Officer for the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership Scheme, which hosts CYDI, said: ”We were delighted that one of our sites was chosen as the inspiration for Mae’s poem. Can You Dig It is all about connecting people with their heritage, and this is such an innovative way to do that – a great idea by Dig It!. Mae’s poem is fantastic and really evokes the hardship of life in Galloway as it was then, but also the connection that archaeology gives us to our predecessors. It’s well worth a listen – in both languages!” Diansangu’s poem, nuhin new unner the sun, has been released in Doric and English to coincide with StAnza 2021 (6 –14 March 2021) and can be read or listened to on the Dig It!, StAnza and CYDI websites. Dig It!, which advertises online and 'in person' archaeology events for members of the public throughout the year, is coordinated by the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and primarily funded by Historic Environment Scotland. For more information, visit www. DigItScotland. com Pictured are: Top - the start of the poem nuhin new unner the sun, the rest of which can be viewed/listened to online. Far left - a volunteer exposing the floor of the Upper Gairloch farmstead © Galloway Glens. Left - pieces of pottery found at Upper Gairloch. Glenkens Gazette page 21 The Church and the River Crossing One of the fascinating details in the 1781 plan of the river crossing at Dalry, accompanying the court case brought by John Newall of Barskeoch against the Earl of Galloway, is the sketched drawing of Dalry Church that it contains. Admittedly it is only a rough sketch, but it clearly shows the church with roughly the same shape as the current building but without the bell tower. The bell tower has the date 1831 on it, and it has sometimes been assumed wrongly on this basis that the church was built in that year. My transcription of Presbytery of Kirkcudbright minutes has revealed that most of the current church was actually built in 1771, and only the tower was added in 1831. In the 1771 church the bell was housed in a small bell house built onto the west gable end. Kells Church had been rebuilt in 1822 with a fine bell tower and Dalry did not want to be upstaged by New Galloway and contracted the same architect, William McCandlish of New Galloway, to add a tower to the Dalry Church building. Some other improvements were also made, such as enlarging the windows and relocating the stairs, which had been accessed within the sanctuary near to the west and east doors so that they were accessed instead through enclosed stairs at the north end of the church. High on the east gable end there is a square plaque with the date 1771, the name Jo. McNish and mason’s marks (see photo). John McNish of Kirkcudbright was the mason who built the church, and was later given the task of building Dalry manse in 1784 – though the manse was later enlarged in 1828. He used some of the stone from the old manse, which had originally been on the site of the Lochinvar Hotel, in the construction of the new manse. The initial plan for the 1771 church had been for a rectangular building, but the minister, Alexander Dick, had declared that the proposed building was too small. John Newall, one of the principal landowners (heritors) with responsibility for maintaining an adequate church building in the parish, offered to add a north aisle to the church at his own expense provided he was released from being required to contribute to the cost of the rest of the building. His offer was accepted. This was the same John Newall who brought the court case against the Earl of Galloway, the main local landowner, ten years later. Some of the witness statements in the court case make reference to the churchyard. Several of them comment that the churchyard dyke was repaired seven or eight years earlier, soon after the church was built. Robert Ferguson of Millmark mentions that it was a drystone dyke covered with sods. He also comments that twothirds of the dyke resembled a sunk fence with the ground being nearly on a level with the top of the churchyard dyke on the inside. Apparently after the earlier embankment had been breached the churchyard would often get flooded when the river level rose, and the new embankment now protected the part of the churchyard wall where the water had got in. John Gordon of Dalry said that three years before the water had invaded the churchyard on three occasions. The first flood had surrounded the Newall family mausoleum (marked on plan as ‘monument’) and the last flood at harvest 1778 had been even higher. After the creation of the new embankment, however, there had been a problem of cattle getting into the churchyard along its top. They gained access to the embankment at its unfinished sloping west end. David Bartholomew Pictured: Above - 1781 plan of Dalry churchyard, with rough sketch of the church and the Newall mausoleum. Below left - Dalry churchyard, showing current church and mausoleum and the higher ground level within the churchyard. Below right - Mason’s 1771 plaque on east gable of Dalry Church. Glenkens Gazette page 22 GLENKENS PLACE NAMES: PART IX In the last piece I wrote: "It might be interesting to hill walkers who ascend Millyea, Scots Gaelic Am Meall Liath, ‘the grey lump’, from Clenrie that there are remains of a summer shieling much higher up the hill than Clenrie (on Meikle Lump, Scots ‘big lump’). The foundations can still be seen." David Bartholomew kindly got in touch with a response which was so interesting that I include it here in full (with David’s permission). You mention a summer shieling high on Meikle Millyea. I came across it in the summer – or what I assume is the same ruin. I suspect it may actually be a hilltop hideaway dating back to Covenanter times. Simpson in his 1846 book ‘Traditions of the Covenanters’ in his chapter on Roger Gordon of Largmore writes the following on p257, referring to a time Roger escaped from the dragoons one night when the dragoons 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, but I’m sure he is referring to Meikle Millyea rather than Meaul. Roger had sasine over Clenrie as well so it would make sense that he might have built a refuge on the higher reaches of his own land where he would have been unlikely to have been troubled by soldiers. I only noticed the ruin when I was almost upon it, and he would have likely camouflaged it with heather and have given it a turf roof, so that it would have been even less visible in those days. The Covenanters who were trying to avoid capture must have had a number of refuges where they could gather. I know of the ruin of one in Earlstoun wood used by the Gordons of Earlstoun. I found another ruin that may have a similar origin high up on the western slopes of Meaul hill. John Dempster, who was shot dead by dragoons near the top of Meaul may have been making for that very refuge when the soldiers closed in on him. They could be just summer shielings, as you say; but they are so high up that I think serious consideration must be given to them being Covenanter hideaways. So many were hiding away in the hills in those days, and it would make sense that many of them had places high up on the mountains so that they were well off the normal trails and had a good view of any approaching soldiers. I think on reflection that David is probably right about the Clenrie structure and thanks again to David for this information and the photograph of the structure. Anyhow, now we will continue the journey up the Forrest Glen looking Millyea shieling. for abandoned farms and their placenames. One such close to the mouth of the Polharrow near Knocknalling, is marked on the OS 1st Edition 6’’ map of 1854. This is Garrainie. David B kindly reminded me about this one as well and pointed out the OS Name Books description of the place. The Site of a Small Hamlet on [the estate] of Knocknalling. It formerly [consisted] of 7 or 8 houses, but now nothing [of it] remains only with the exception [of the] ruins of two houses. It is not [known] in this locality how it got the [name]. Tradition says these old houses were [founded] by Earl of Bothwell to accommodate his hunters & Dogs during the period he was residing in Earlston Castle. This is an interesting reference to hunting and it could be that Garrainie was the Forrest Glen equivalent of Castle Maddy in the Polmaddy Glen where tradition also has it that hunting dogs were kept. The Forest of Buchan boundary being probably the so called ‘Deil’s Dyke’ which can be seen crossing the glen roughly north-south near Knockreoch, An Cnoc Riabhach, ‘the brindled hill’. Garrainie itself is a tricky one. The forms recorded in the OS name book and on Ainslie’s Map of 1797 suggest the stress was on the first syllable. My best guess would be Scots Gaelic na gàraidhnean, a plural form of gàradh, normally ‘gardens’ but here perhaps ‘dykes’1. Loss of the final -n in Scots wouldn't be surprising, especially after the syllable-initial n. The Place-Names of the Galloway Glens website perhaps wisely, doesn’t attempt an etymology of this place-name and shows it in the wrong location, south of New Galloway. I think there must have been confusion between Knocknalling and Knocknairling. The 1854 map shows several ruined buildings at Garrainie. It would be interesting to try to establish if some of these buildings were kennels. Between Garrainie and Craig Michael is what the OS described as a ‘cothouse’ called Kingston. It was in ruins as well by 1854. The Name Book states ‘It is not known in the locality how it got the name’. There are a number of probable ‘royal’ place-names in and around the fringes of the former royal hunting forest. One further up the Forrest Glen is King’s Holm, near the ruins of Ringreoch (which I will retrun next edition). At the head of the Polmaddy Glen are the Blaree Burn, perhaps from Scots Gaelic Blàr Righ, ‘king’s field’ which rises near the King’s Well and Stone on the slopes of Meaul (am Meall, ’the lumpy hill’). These placenames may relate to the former royal forest. Local tradition tends to link place-names associated with royalty with King Robert the Bruce and the Wars of Scottish Independence but I think its at least as likely that they reflect the hunting tenure of the land hereabouts. Near Kingston, just north east of Knocknairling House walled garden is Wally Stane, marked on the OS 1st edition 6’’ map. This stone seems to be subsumed within deciduous woodland policies surroundin ‘the big hoose’ but in 1854 it was open ground. It would be interesting to establish if this stone can still be located. This will be a Scots place-name from ‘wallie’ meaning ‘fine, beautiful, excellent’. Michael Ansell, Cars Fèarna * Thanks to Alan James for suggesting this piece. Glenkens Gazette page 23 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN A Gallimaufry o'Bards The editor of the poem to the right, The Battle of Spearford, neatly described it as "descriptive of a traditional fight in Crossmichael between the Gordons of Kenmure and the Glendonwyns of Parton". The word traditional is code for ‘no evidence it ever happened’. The bard was Samuel Wilson who was, according to Alexander Trotter, recognised as one of the "greatest of the numerous poets who sprang into existence in Galloway in the 18th and 19th centuries", no doubt inspired, as were so many, by one of Scotland’s greatest fabricators Walter Scott. He was born at Burnbrae west of Clarebrand, attending school at Ringanwhey (now Riganwhey) and Crossmichael, ending his formal education at Glasgow University. He developed a successful business as a wood merchant but while working in Balmaclellan he was injured by the axe of a companion, necessitating the amputation of a leg. Before the accident he had been fascinated by archaeology and history. In the Highlands he learned to speak and write Gaelic. He was already known for his skill on flute and fiddle to which he added bagpipes. A well-known local character he bawled out children who mocked his wooden leg. During his fifty years as a shop-keeper he advertised that he kept a loaded pistol on the premises. He never married, dying in 1863 aged 78. It is disappointing that so few women in our general area seem to have written verse. Maria Trotter preserved some jingles but is much more valuable as a source of information about life in Galloway in days gone by. She tells us that she persuaded one of her sons to "write down a wheen odds and ends about the old notions of the people, and also a hantle of the bits of anecdotes of curious kinds of craiters, that used to enliven the farmer's fireside when I was young, in the lang winter forenichts, among the drearie muirs and mountains of our native Galloway. The most of the folk they are about are all dead, and their descendants crushed out of the country, to seek the living denied them at home by absentee landlords, big farms, and game laws; but the few aboriginals that are left may like to read of the ways of their ancestors, and even the incomers may have a desire to know something of them that were here before them". I have written before about this lady and I hope to do so again. She was nearly blind but was ‘behauden to naebody’ in describing something of the way of life some sixty years earlier. Her Galloway Gossip was a joint venture with her son Robert De Bruce Trotter who resided for a time at Dalshangan. A more recent writer was Alexander G Hunter who published a slim booklet entitled, Rhymes of the Glenkens, which contains a selection of unpretentious and often humorous verse, straight out of the ‘now’. He adores his ‘Jean’: "I hear her voice in ilka bird/That twitters i’ the tree;/I’ll luve her till the very en’/ Till sense and reason dee". Also appealing is his address to Cairnsmore of Deugh: What feet hae trod your massive braes What een hae scanned your howes What herds hae tramped ye up and doon To seek for their bit yowes What men hae stopped at orra times To drink frae oot your lanes Or cooried doon to licht a pipe In the shelter o’ your stanes? I would be glad to hear from anyone who knows of other verses by this bard. A poet that I only recently discovered is Joan Rudal, originally, I think from London, who was inspired by the Moffat area, publishing Songs of the Grey Country in 1916 and Peatsmoke in 1919 both of which convey the massive disaster of war. From the Land you left behind you, Where the mountains gird our home Stray my errant songs to find you-Will you read them where you roam? Will you read, with eyes a-dreaming Of the windy woods we knew, And the grassy uplands gleaming In the twilight - starred with dew Till you hear the brown burns brawling O’er the grey rocks, and the scream Of the peewit and the calling Of the hill-wind, through your dream. Proudly paraded the hardy Glenkensmen, Their broad tartans wav’d in the wind of the hill; Gordon’s loud pibroch cheers on his bold clansmen, The turrets of Kenmure resound to the peal. Swiftly Maculloch came,Maitland and all his men Stout Craigengillan and haughty Knockgray; Kennedy’s bowmen true Muster’d on Lowran’s brow; Ken’s rocky shore ne’er beheld such array. PROFESSIONAL GARDENER Available for part-time garden maintenance and autumn clearances. Reliable and friendly service with 20 years experience. I suspect he was unable to reply. Ted Cowan Contact Debbie on 07710 771 433 Glenkens Gazette page 24 The Optimistic Environmentalist What do Bank holidays mean to you: deckchairs or decorating? If your house is anything like ours, it will definitely be decorating. There have been huge changes in paint technology over the last 20 or so years, for example – the introduction of water-based gloss, some of which can even be used outside; this in-turn allows tools to be cleaned in water, the reduction of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) given off by paint. If you remember painting with solvent-based gloss paint in the 1990s or before, VOCs are the things that made your whole house stink for weeks – and invariably made our dogs ill. If you're buying paint for your latest project – try to buy low VOC products – both for your nose and the wider environment. So, you've got your paint sorted, what are you going to clean your brushes with when you've finished? If you're using water-based paint then water will do to clean up with. However, you may prefer the finish only outdoors or in a well ventilated area. Wear nitrile or PVC protective gloves. Store locked up. It makes rather sobering reading - if you want the full picture, the safety data sheet for white spirit is freely available on the internet and is possibly even more scary. Do you really want to use a product like this in your home? Probably not, but what's the alternative? Here comes the good news – 'clean spirit'. Clean spirit has been around for over ten years but, judging from the shelves of hardware stores, is still something of a fringe product. It's a mixture of ingredients often including alcohols and bristle softeners that will perform the same brushcleaning function as white spirit. The difference is it's deemed non-toxic, non-flammable, biodegradable, has low VOCs and virtually odourless - and yes, it does work! Some solvent-based paints are harder to remove from brushes than others. We have found the solution for stubborn paints is to have a small amount of white spirit (that you can re-use time and time again) to soak the brush in initially, then do the proper cleaning with clean spirit. Is it a panacea? In our experience, no, but it does drastically reduce the amount of white spirit you need and used with a bit of care, really does work. On top of that, because it's classified as non-hazardous, mail order suppliers are much more amenable to sending it through the post. At least one of the big online DIY suppliers will only sell white spirit to you in person at the store counter but will happily send clean spirit to you in the post. Oh, and if you happen to drip some paint onto your new carpet, you can also use it to remove that too – with less chance of ruining the carpet. Again, it really does work – our 'oatmeal' coloured 80% wool carpet came up as good as new after a mishap with some bright red anti-rust paint. White spirit is a common enough household product but before you automatically reach for it, have a close look at the product label. that solvent-based paints provide and if your project involves external metalwork you haven't got much alternative. You're then faced with the inevitable: 'Clean-up with white spirit'. White spirit is a common enough household product but before you automatically reach for it, have a close look at the product label. I lifted the following information from a bottle we have in the shed: Dairy & Sucklers; DANGER – Ageing, Twin & Barren Detection. Causes damage to the central nervous system Trailer system includes triplets, through repeated or prolonged marking and shedding. exposure if inhaled. May be fatal if Pregnancy and number of pups. swallowed and enters airways. Repeated For bookings and info: exposure may cause Duncan Kennedy skin dryness and cracking. Flammable liquid dk@passcan.co.uk and vapour. Toxic www.passcan.co.uk to aquatic life with long lasting effects. Use ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY SCANNING 07860 474001 Denise MacDonald-Kiernan Glenkens Gazette page 25 Revisiting Detective Classics for Lockdown: Edmund Crispin Edmund Crispin is the creator of the amateur sleuth, Professor Gervase Fen, and prolific writer of crime fiction (as well as being a musician and composer of some distinction). Crispin was the pen name for Bruce Montgomery. The style of the books contains a good deal of humour and the ridiculous, a light touch with human weaknesses, complex plots and quite a lot of fun. They are well written in the classic detective novel fashion. In many ways he did not enjoy the rapid changes brought about by the twentieth century and this comes through in many of the books. Most reviewers mention the high-spiritedness and charm of his novels. The first Crispin novel that I read was The Moving Toyshop and it remains one of my all time favourite novels to this day. I think that if my house was burning down I would grab it to keep it safe! Other favourites include, Holy Disorders and Glimpses of the Moon. Professor Fen is drawn to be insufferably arrogant and pompous, solving the mysteries he is presented with through wild and intuitive thinking with some provocative behaviour. Nevertheless, he is still a very likeable individual and entertaining character. Many of his ten crime novels are still available on Amazon. Interestingly, nearly all of them are also available as audio books with various lengths from five through to nine hours. Bruce Smith 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 IAIN MCDONALD I am delighted to be selected as the Scottish Liberal Democrat Candidate for the Galloway & West Dumfries Constituency A lifelong local resident, with 35 years experience as a Solicitor We can make a difference - vote positive If you wish to get in touch or support my campaign, please do so – I shall be pleased to hear from you: Iain4GWD@gmail.com Dumfries & Galloway Liberal Democrats @DGLibDems Scottish Liberal Democrats PUT RECOVERY FIRST Glenkens Gazette page 26 Hug in a Mug Cheers Dalry Residents A small group of residents who got together on WhatsApp under the name Friends of Dalry organised a wonderful gift for Dalry's elderly residents. On a cold Wednesday in February over 200 residents of Dalry and surrounding area received a surprise hug in the form of a small gift consisting of a delicious home made mug of soup and cake. The 'Hug in a Mug' gesture was a way of showing anyone who may have been feeling isolated, lonely or a bit fed-up that they were not forgotten and the rest of the village was thinking of them at this strange time. The community came together to produce pots of scrumptious soups and trays of homemade cakes which brought a smile to each and everyone and were accepted with tears of joy and happiness. From all the thank you messages that have been received it can safely be said that it was a resounding success . This whole venture would not have been possible without the help of the residents of Dalry and a huge thank you goes out to all of you - well done Dalry! A dismal day turned bright and sunny by this act of kindness and community spirit - looking ahead to turning virtual hugs into real ones... Lesley Blissett See 'Thanks' on p28... 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 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 27 What Do Peatlands Mean To You? Peatland Connections is a new and exciting Crichton Carbon Centre project that will take you on a journey to rediscover our diverse and unique Scottish peatlands in the heart of Dumfries and Galloway. This three-year project, funded by the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership Scheme and Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, will explore the many connections we have to this sometimes-forgotten landscape. It is widely appreciated that healthy peatlands store carbon, reducing greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere, support unique plants and animals and have a role to play in water quality and regulation. This project will not only explore how we can help support peatland restoration and management in the Galloway Glens area to maximise these benefits, but will also bring alive our peatlands by celebrating their rich history and culture of stories, songs and ancient myths. Jayne Murdoch, Project Officer for Peatland Connections, says: “I aim to connect with as many different people as possible so we can better understand the importance of peatlands and the benefits they have for us all. I want to ask people in the Glenkens area: what do peatlands mean to you? We want Peatland landscape at Clatteringshaws. communities and Come with us on this rediscover of our organisations to beautiful and diverse peatlands. get involved in field trips, research and workshops and share your stories, songs To find out more about our poems and photographs with us. Please plans in the Glenkens visit www. share your thoughts and experiences peatlandconnections.com or contact of peatlands - just type 'peatland Jayne at j.murdoch@carboncentre. connections sharing' into the Facebook org search bar. 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 28 Photo ofSponsored thebyIssue the Ken Bridge Hotel This issue’s winner is Nigel Spencer from Smittons with his photo, Face at the Window, showing a thoughtful-looking baby owl peering out. Nigel wins an evening meal for two up to the value of £30 at the Ken Bridge Hotel, when COVID-19 regulations allow. Competition judges Dave and Sue said: "Again a wonderful selection of photographs, but seeing the wee owl at the window jolted Dave's memory back 50 years to when the Warren family had two young rescue owls. Their sons and Dave had great fun feeding the owls with slivers of meat wrapped in wool until they were successfully released." How to Enter: any photos taken in the Glenkens can be entered - landscapes, wildlife, portraits, action shots... Email them to glenkensgazette@ hotmail.co.uk To the organisation supplied the aged of Dalry with soup and a bun on a cold frosty day in early February - what a lovely surprise! Regards, Ernest If you are a winner, the Gazette will send you out a voucher - please call the Ken Bridge to check opening times in light of current COVID-19 guidelines. See article on p26 ('Hug in a Mug')... Glenkens Gazette page 29 Corsock Village Hall Book Swap This March, the Corsock Book Swap was launched, situated in the village hall. Over recent years the plant swap box outside Corsock village hall had developed beyond its initial remit, including books and publications such as the Glenkens Gazette. Keen to set up a more weatherproof facility, Corsock residents came together to use some of the Community Council’s COVID-19 resilience funding to buy a small bookcase and PPE equipment for the porch of the hall. A range of books have already been donated by the public and the facility is in regular use. Further donations of books are welcomed, to be left in the quarantine box. What a great example of a positive local community response to these odd times... WL WINDY RIG WIND FARM PROGRESS UPDATE There were no injuries at either incident and the relevant authorities were notified. As a robust plan was formed to safely remove the vehicles, appropriate environmental measures and monitoring was put in place. This included redirecting the water course around the cranes and using pumps to move the water away from the vehicles. The fluids were removed from the vehicles and personnel were placed at the incident sites round the clock to monitor for any possible contamination. Preparatory road works were required on both sides of the C35 to allow access for two larger cranes to lift the vehicle out of the verge and onto a transporter to be removed from site. During this period, we communicated with local residents through the Community Council, our website and our text messaging service. Deliveries of turbine components commenced shortly after the crane removal and will continue for several weeks. We would like to thank local residents for their patience and understanding during the difficult few weeks in March. We are currently operating a text message service to alert residents to turbine delivery information and minimise potential disruption. Contact Doug Wilson if you would like to be added, doug.wilson@ statkraft.com or call 07542 754642. For up to date information on construction progress, visit www. statkraft.co.uk/ windyrig Advertisement At the beginning of March there were two incidents involving crane vehicles on their way to the Windy Rig Wind Farm site. Glenkens Gazette 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 page 30 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 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 The Community Kindness Cupboard outside Dalry Library has home baking in every Thursday (see article on p14). 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 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 • Mossdale: Shop - 01644 450 281 • New Galloway: Sam Rushton 07741 656 601 • Parton: Erica or Brian - 01644 470 277 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 Shirley McNaught on 07955 743 022 or drop by the charity shop on Main Street, Dalry Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact Ros Hill on ros.hill@rathanhouse.co.uk Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett on 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 on williamsoncarylann@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact Sam Rushton on 07741 656601 or samCEW@newgallowaycommunity.shop or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins on 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 Bright Stars - Glenkens Community Nursery: Contact glenkenscommunitynursery@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie on 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 Apr & 2 May. Carsphairn: 11am - 11 Apr & 9 May. Kells: 11am - 18 Apr & 16 May. Dalry: 11am - 25 Apr, 23 May & 30 May. There will also be an Easter Dawn Service outside Dalry Church at 7am on 4 April. Communion will be celebrated at Balmaclellan on 2 May. The local Church of Scotland congregations are continuing to prepare weekly prayers and reflections on youtube under ‘Balmaclellan, Kells and Dalry linked with Carsphairn’. The services include hymns and songs and the whole service is accompanied by pictures of the Glenkens. David is also happy to send these directly to people by email if they contact him at dbartholomew@churchofscotland.org.uk Paper copies can be provided to those who do not have internet access. Call 01644 430380 if you would like to receive these resources, or simply if you would like to have a chat. SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: Communal worship at St Margaret's New Galloway resumed on Palm Sunday, albeit with last year's social distancing measures still in place. Sunday services, usually including the Eucharist, are at 10.30am every week. Visitors are always welcome. For further information, please see website https:// stmargaretsnewgalloway.org or call 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 32 Concerns Over New Pylon Route This February, a group of local people from Laurieston got together (in a socially-distanced manner) to protest against the proposed Glenlee to Tongland power line. Richard, one of the protest organisers, said: "Our main objections to the project are the destruction of endangered species and habitats, and also the potential effects for local residents who make a living through tourism." Campaigners accept an upgrade is needed but say the new line should be put underground to minimise damage. Richard went on to say: “This is one project out of many that is adding to the ongoing problems facing our world, a world our children will inherit and ask us why we let this sort of thing happen. We would like to see the Scottish Government step up to the mark to ensure that this kind of environmental destruction in the name of ‘green energy’ is not allowed to continue.” SP Energy Networks (SPEN) has published a report for the Kendoon to Tongland 132kV Reinforcement (KTR) "At what point will people stop and see that the costs are, indeed, too high?" Project. The report looks to identify potential underground cable routes as an alternative to overhead lines. The study found that underground cables were technically feasible and would offer environmental benefits, but the additional costs would be too high. Richard asks: "But how can you balance the cost of destruction to our environment, to our livelihood, to our future... At what point will people stop and see that the costs are, indeed, too high?" Pictured above is the small gathering at February's lockdown protest. You're right...you've seen this photo before, in the previous issue - but here it is in full resolution... Poetic lines curated by Ken Words from their Waterside Hill Poetry Walk of 20 September 2020. Contributors, in alphabetical order, are Michael Ansell, Angus Macmillan, Andrew Mellor, John Priestley and John Smith. If you have any queries please contact jane.kenwords@gmail.com 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 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 123 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_123 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 https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/271/GlenkensGazette124.pdf edda99c6849b9b09c7f750b1a5711b0c 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 124 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 June/July 2021 ISSUE 124 FREE MEET THE LOCH KEN RANGER Loch Ken now proudly boasts its very own ranger, a post managed by the Loch Ken Trust Ken Scott, who took on the role in April, explains a bit about what the role entails. Since starting my post as ranger, I have regularly patrolled around the loch introducing myself to locals and visitors alike, as well as responding to people who contacted me directly. On the first Friday I was on duty I was contacted twice about fishermen flying a St George flag, while lockdown rules prevented cross border travel. It turned out to be two local guys - one had family roots in Gibraltar and his friend had brought the flag along on St George’s Day as a bit of a wind-up. We want to encourage visitors to keep coming back to the loch, but to please visit responsibly and leave no trace behind. On several occasions already I’ve cleaned up rubbish and even an abandoned tent from areas around the loch, some of which was a real danger to wildlife. Information regarding this was kindly passed to me by a concerned angler, via the Loch Ken Trust Facebook page. I have been shown around the loch on land as well as viewing it by boat, gaining an appreciation of access and safety issues that I hope to be able to help resolve when out on patrol. Hopefully my presence around the loch will reassure Ranger Ken Scott (left) litter picking with local communities and local volunteers Kate and Andy. responsible visitors that there is someone in place sitting between the loch communities to help directly with any and partners at the D&G council issues or concerns they may have. community safety team and Police Those concerns could be related to Scotland, calling upon and working areas such as antisocial behaviour, alongside those partners as required. irresponsible land access, poaching or littering. I see my part-time role as Continued on p3... you Parton Photo Exhibition Are struggling to find a house in Takes to the Road the Glenkens? Parton community's Glenkens photo exhibition has taken to the road at last. The display of competition entries planned for Christmas was delayed by lockdown but with the lifting of the 'stay at home' order, the exhibition went on display as promised in Parton village hall car park, mounted on a vintage Bedford truck, pictured here. The photos look fantastic. Thanks again to all the participants and to my fellow Partonians Tom Marshall and John Simpson who put in time to make the competition and exhibition happen; to Dumfries & Galloway Council and Parton Community Council for supporting the printing costs; and to Gordy who was press-ganged into making the frame and mounts that made our truck display possible! If your village, hall or school would like to host the truck exhibition for a weekend or similar, we would be absolutely delighted to bring it over and park up - just drop an email to maxwellphoto2020@gmail.com Suzy Mercer Bea enjoying Parton's mobile photo exhibition A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative Do you know someone who is? Whether it's to rent or to buy, we want to hear your story. The Glenkens is currently facing a housing crisis, with not enough homes available for those wishing to settle in the area and local families being forced to leave due to a housing shortage. In the next edition of the Gazette we will take a look at this situation in some depth, hopefully starting an ongoing conversation. www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 Formal Objections to Pylon Route Below is an update on the application by Scottish Power Energy Network (SPEN) for the Kendoon to Tongland 132kV Reinforcement Project. SPEN’s applications were submitted to the Scottish Government in September 2020. Dumfries & Galloway Council are a consultee in the process just like the RSPB, Scottish Forestry, Historic Scotland, NatureScot, etc. After much discussion, D&G Council agreed to raise objections "on the grounds that it has not been proven as yet that the proposals would not have an unduly adverse effect on the landscape character due to this proposal running through two Regional Scenic Areas and that underground would be the preferred option to protect these sensitive areas landscape views and visual amenity”. The government has written to SPEN asking them what they want to do either withdraw the applications, modify their applications or ask the government to decide as it stands. If the last is adopted the government will appoint a 'reporter' who will consider the scope of an enquiry which will be one of three options: (a) Written evidence from interested parties (b) A hearing session whereby the reporter asks questions to various stakeholders. (c) Public Local Enquiry (PLI) - the bookie's favourite as this is a thorough and formal procedure. To date there have been 909 objections sent to the government with 564 CLIMATE PANEL TENDER Dumfries and Galloway Council have put out to tender the £50K contract to set up and run a 'climate pane' focused on implementing the Council's 12-point Climate Emergency Declaration Plan. In response to a request through the Dumfries & Galloway Climate Group, several local organisations and individuals have responded and are pulling together a potential tender. Those involved believe it is important that, in the spirit of 'climate assemblies', the agenda for its delivery should be set by as wide a mix of people as possible living in the local community. The challenge of the climate emergency is felt most acutely by young people. So, those facilitating the bid very much want young people to become involved in the tendering process and, if successful, managing the eventual 'climate panel' process. Roland Chaplain is providing the contact point for anyone interested in becoming involved in however small or large a way - get in touch on 01644 420 361 or roland@glenkensbb.co.uk New overhead pylon route outside Carsphairn. from Dumfries & Galloway. I have been informed by SPEN that these are phenomenal numbers so I sincerely hope the volume has an impact. About 60% of the objections have been regarding the Glenlee to Tongland section with only 40% objecting to the whole project. Paul Swift Dear Editor, I just wanted to send my thanks for a great article highlighting the plight of living in Carsphairn at the moment and dealing with the issues these wind farms are causing. It’s not the finished product that causes these difficulties, it’s the constant disruption to our daily lives that becomes difficult to live with. When wind farm operators put in for planning permission, the planning officers don’t look at these things. Jackie Locke, Carsphairn Clarification: The Gazette has been asked to point out that the owners of the “second B&B” in Carsphairn, as referenced in last issue’s front page article, sold their business because they were retiring and not due to the impact of wind farm development in the area. The reference to the B&B being on the market was to illustrate, along with the sale of the only other B&B in the village, the impact on tourist accommodation in Carsphairn. We are happy to make this clarification as there was no intention to mislead. GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 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 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 FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY  01556 502263 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS  Glenkens Gazette page 3 Carsphairn Road Network Ward Event Local residents whose lives have been affected by the increase in traffic associated with wind farm construction and timber felling were able to air their grievances at a ward event, entitled Carsphairn Road Network, on 11 May. Carsphairn Community Council chair Liz Holmes said: "Thanks to councillor Pauline Drysdale and the various bodies involved in this meeting. Feedback from the meeting was largely positive and it is hoped that the Windy Rig messaging service will be improved further to ensure residents and businesses living along the route, who have experienced serious disruption to their activities, are kept up to date with transport and delivery schedules." Councillor Pauline Drysdale said: "I was delighted that we were able to have a ward event during COVID. The follow-up report stated that some of the objectives were achieved, but it still needs some work going forward with regards to the Traffic Management Plan. As a councillor I feel it's my job to ensure that the Following multiple council planning department incidents that have are being as proactive as affected Carsphairn possible in terms of the residents, local councillor processes and procedures to Pauline Drysdale agreed be followed. I will continue to arrange the ward event to strive to act as a voice for with council members and the community regarding interested parties. their rights to use these The event was put on to roads for their daily needs. engage with the Windy It is vital that people's Rig team, council officers, needs are considered as Photograph submitted by Rita Fairgrieve of a wind turbine blade being Smithy House Associates a priority when planning lifted to make it round a corner on the B729 next to her house, Old (who are responsible for strategies and wind farm Burnfoot Cottage. communications during developments are agreed." the Windy Rig construction Going forward, it seems process), councillors, that a discussion needs local councillor or community council if Carsphairn community council, ward to take place within D&G Council with the Traffic Management Plan (TMP) was officers and constituents to discuss the regard to how they regulate wind farm being breached by any vehicles so that infrastructure, the management of the developments. In the ward event, they could follow it up. roads network (in and around the wind Statkraft, developers of Windy Rig wind The TMP can be viewed at www. farms and across the immediate area) farm, repeatedly noted that they were carsphairn.org/CCPlanning – issues and the communications regarding these abiding by the agreement that had been can also be reported by emailing works. set up with Dumfries & Galloway Council. planningenforcementteam@dumgal.gov. The purpose of the event, as explained If this is the case, the agreement uk by a council officer, was to “improve process seems to be lacking significantly It was also noted that if there are the management and communications in prioritising consideration of the significant areas of damage to roads, surrounding the aforementioned impacts of large scale developments on potholes, etc, it can be reported on the work ... Also to facilitate better local residents. dumgal.gov.uk website under the 'Report relationships between the contractors, With so many commercial applications It' function on the home page. the management of Windy Rig and our being submitted accross the region - for It was clarified by Doug Wilson that council and to understand where each both wind farms and forestry plantations Statkraft is required to restore roads tier of responsibility lies." - it seems vital that the council has a to their original condition following the 16 local residents joined the meeting, robust strategy in place going forward; completion of the wind farm. Also, upon which was chaired by Councillor a strategy which ensures the needs the end of use of the laydown area Drysdale, to share their concerns and and rights of local people are given outside Carsphairn village, the site will discuss potential solutions. equal importance to the demands of be landscaped with input from the local The key concerns were the damage corporations. community. to small local roads by heavy vehicles (both timber and wind farm), a lack of communication between Windy Rig management and residents regarding disruption on the roads, and the amount of disruption to local residents from wind farm traffic and road works. With regard to better communication, Doug Wilson, of Smithy House Associates, agreed that they would endeavour to improve their messaging service to ensure residents were kept up to date with changes in times, etc, of component deliveries. D&G Council roads department representatives suggested that residents contact their LOCH KEN RANGER Continued from front page... To raise awareness and visibility I now have stickers on my car, making it far more visible when out on patrol which hopefully will encourage direct local engagement. So don’t be shy - if you see the car parked up, come over and have a chat! That same visibility should also help deter the small minority of visitors whose reasons for visiting Loch Ken may fall outside of ‘responsible’. I am collating any concerns that are raised in order to identify patterns and repeated issues, what the busiest times are and any hotspots that may require more regular or more robust patrolling. I cannot be at the lochside 24 hours a day and I am relying heavily on locals and visitors being my eyes and ears, and getting in touch with any concerns - if I am not told about problems, I can't do anything about them, so I urge anyone with an issue to either phone me, email or leave me a message on the Loch Ken Trust FaceBook page. Get in touch with Ken on 07918 300 889 or lktranger@protonmail.com Glenkens Gazette page 4 SECURING OUR GL More than 100 people attended the Glenkens District Trust’s first summit to debate the issues facing the Glenkens communities (as reported in the last Gazette). For many, the most inspirational part of the evening was contributed by the guest speakers who shared their expertise in social enterprise, community wealth building and community response to the climate emergency. Pictured left to right: Philip Revell is convenor of the Scottish Communities Action Network on Climate Change. Neil McInroy is CEO of the Centre for Local Economic Strategies and advises the Scottish Government on Community Wealth Building. Ailsa Clark is founder and development manager of the social enterprise support organisation, Inspiralba and runs the Rural Social Enterprise Hub. to buy their produce. This has been a focus of the successful Glenkens Food Month and its spin off - the Glenkens food hub. All three stress that having got to this point the Glenkens communities must press ahead. Ailsa Clark advocates pilot projects. “Identify short-term objectives that are do-able, which will get quick wins,” she says. Philip stresses the importance of not ‘overthinking’ and, like Neil, encourages spontaneity rather than spending time and energy on complex integrated planning. The Gazette has followed up by interviewing the speakers, specifically asking how the Glenkens communities should set out to secure their economic future. Their first responses are encouraging. “You have already started!” says Philip Revell. “You have agreed a community plan. Many communities have not got that far.” Neil McInroy adds: “You have already created social enterprises and have instances of community ownership. This is something to build on. It shows what can be done.” Philip cites the importance of supporting local producers by making people aware of what is available and providing opportunities Ailsa has seen too many communities waiting for some outside agency to provide 'the big fix’ with a major development. “Don’t set your heart on it,” she says. “Start with what you can do where you are. Tackle issues in bite-sized chunks. Twenty micro- businesses could be a better prospect. Some might fail but some might grow organically and provide future strength - and keep the wealth in the community.” Neil also is wary of placing too much emphasis on a big investment from outside, which comes with the risk of financial extraction. Community energy is better directed at local small-scale initiatives, “where wealth sticks”. As his mantra has it: “Many a Mickle Maks a Muckle.’ None of the panelists believes securing agreement in a community is easy. “You will never please all of the people all the time” says Ailsa. “The priorities have to be the priorities of the majority. Keep the plan up to date and keep the community with you.” Philip believes consultation requires radical approaches. “The way you reach out to people is crucial,” he says. “There are lots of new approaches which have been shown to work. People are tired of the traditional form of public consultation.” He advocates citizens’ assemblies, not of self-selecting activists but of ordinary members of the community. There are various ways of doing this including ‘sortition’ - a method of getting decisions from randomly selected citizens dating back to early Greek democracy. Glenkens Gazette page 5 LENKENS’ FUTURE Neil believes in monitoring people’s needs, wants and desires - and identifying how policies are addressing these. Ailsa stresses the importance of avoiding confrontation. “There are always going to be egos and personalities to deal with. Better to focus on objectives. We want to create job opportunities for young people? Who is going to be agin that?” Once such a consensus is achieved, people are then discussing the best way to achieve an agreed goal. Ailsa adds that success must be shared and celebrated but warns not everything will go to plan. She believes ‘space for reflection’ must be created for considering what is not working and how to put it right without casting blame. Economic prosperity should not be measured by GDP says Philip. “GDP tells you nothing about wealth or how it is distributed. It measures income not wealth and doesn’t tell you where income goes.” Neil is an exponent of community wealth building which aims to give communities a stake in the economic wealth of their localities. This, he says, is well beyond token consultation, or community development or economic development. It is about economic democracy, growing the wealth of a community organically by sharing resources and linking up local supply chains, employment opportunities, etc. This is a different way of looking at the economy. All three contributors mention community and land. For Ailsa, land ownership is not essential “but it can make things a lot easier”. Neil adds: “Be clear first what community ownership of land can help with. Economic regeneration means attracting and retaining people with skills and this requires affordable housing and this requires land.” The same, says Philip, applies to the desire to create affordable energy-efficient housing. If most people support these goals then there is motivation for the community to acquire land. The panel’s ideas are stimulating but challenging. How can a community of a few thousand people respond? “Scotland,” says Philip, “is the most centralised democracy in Europe. In Finland, an area the size of Dumfries and Galloway would have 10 local authority areas, each with real power and resources.” In many countries small communities can, and do, take major decisions. All three speakers emphasise this is already happening across Scotland. They represent organisations with vast experience and contacts. Numerous agencies can provide support and assistance such as the Scottish Land Commission and local authorities. There is information out there (see panel of sources below). For instance communities could aspire to own wind turbines rather than parley for handouts. “Imaginative partnership working can build up capacity for change,” says Neil. The challenge is to build a local economy which works for the local people. “Keep your eye on the horizon” says Ailsa. “Take time to envision,” says Philip. “What do we want the Glenkens to look like in 2030?” See article on p32 regarding local food production survey... Find Out More There are many examples across Scotland and beyond of local communities working to develop their own economies. Here are the websites of our three interviewees which describe how ordinary people are working to secure their future: • www.ruralsehub.net • www.scottishcommunitiescan.org.uk • www.cles.org.uk For Want of a House... Rory Paterson was among the 100 participants in the Zoom summit on the economic future of the Glenkens. He found the event inspiring and surprising. Inspiring because of the ideas being presented by the speakers and taken up by the participants: surprising because, aged 34, he found himself the youngest person in the audience. “If we are talking about building for the future we must have younger people involved,” says Rory, who grew up in the Glenkens and now wants to return and settle here. He and his partner are expecting a son in the summer and want to make their home here and become involved in local food production. Talk of community farming and partnerships piqued his interest. With his brothers he has inherited some 30 acres of farmland and is keen to play his part in creating a thriving economy. But there is a major obstacle. “I am living in Dumfries at present because I can find nowhere to rent in the Glenkens.” He is currently working as a therapeutic support worker with the organisation Common Thread. He wants to contribute to the community - after living and working in in the US and as a fly fishing guide for Atlantic salmon in Norway and Strathspey, he wants to come home to the Glenkens and put down roots again. However, renting is proving so difficult he is now considering buying and is working hard to gather a deposit. Rory knows of others who want to settle here too but are also stymied by a lack of affordable housing and adequate public transport. If people want to see a thriving Glenkens, then he believes these issues must be addressed. "As soon as I am in the area," he says, "I'll be working hard to get involved with the community. I have some good ideas and being a son of the Glenkens, it's time to get back and get on with it." Do you know of young people who want to work in the Glenkens but can’t find accommodation? The Gazette plans to take a look at the scale of the problem of available local housing. If you have anything to contribute with regard to this topic, please contact us on glenkensgazette@ hotmail.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 6 Community Councils - Why Bother? I arrived in the Parish of Dalry as a curious 'comer-inna' wanting to know more, so I went along to the community council meetings, which happen monthly. All general community council meetings are open and anyone can attend. With open curiosity, I attended every month. I learnt 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 matter of 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, ensuring that the people of Dalry, especially the elderly, people with disabilities, people living alone, and lower income families had much needed support. In all, community councils attend to ongoing nuts and bolts as well as more complex issues such as dealing with the influx of Sitka spruce planation proposals. 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 will lose our community councils, which are valuable assets for our rural towns and communities. Our voices are heard and represented through our community councils - 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. where anyone can have their say and – if agreed upon – enable positive things happen for our communities and our environment. During the past 15 months, during a pandemic and lockdowns, restricted movement and social distancing, I’ve experienced important things geting done, things that have made a difference. I am proud to be a part of this hard working group of dedicated individuals. So here’s the crux. Dalry Community Council would love more people to become involved in whatever way suits them best. We would love to see more people attend the monthly meetings. More than that, we would love - and actively and openly encourage - young people to get involved. New members under the age of 40 would inject a youthful vitality and bring to the fore issues of concern for younger citizens and future generations. If you would like to know more about your local community council, visit https://info.dumgal.gov.uk/ CommunityCouncils Dee and Glenkens is Ward 3 - click to open the list of community councils; then click on your town or village to reveal contact emails addresses. If you’re interested in getting involved, or just want to know more, please get in touch. The more voices we hear, the more representative community councils will be. Kerry Morrison, deputy chair, Dalry Community Council Our voices are heard and represented through our community councils - community councils do make a difference. 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. In Dalry, we are currently working on a Climate Emergency Declaration, which will hopefully be adopted and inform the future work we do. Our community councils are places FOND FAREWELL TO GLENKENS COMMUNITY SHOP FOUNDER About eight years ago Shirley McNaught had a lightbulb moment – why not use the empty shop space in Dalry’s Main Street for a charity shop. Not just another branch for a national organisation, but one which would serve our local community. So the Glenkens Community Shop was born... Since then, Shirley has worked tirelessly managing the shop, which is no little task. It has become a hub for the community, somewhere to pop into for a chat and somewhere you can always pick up a bargain. It has supported local groups and individual projects to the tune of about £50,000 since its inception, many of which may have struggled without this support. Now Shirley has decided to retire and no-one can really replace her. However, the shop will continue to run with us, the volunteers, trying to cover all that she did! We will miss her dearly, but look forward to her popping in from time to time to say "Hi!". We hope Shirley will enjoy looking back at this incredible achievement and feel truly proud of what she has done - she has left an enduring legacy to the Glenkens she loves so much. Thank you Shirley! Lis Lewis and the Shop Volunteers Shirley McNaught (right) with shop volunteer Avril Brown in 2012. Glenkens Gazette page 7 COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT Local capacity-building company Sleeping Giants ran an online workshop titled How to Win Friends and Influence (The Right!) People. Attended by a few Glenkens residents, the event explored community involvement in decision making and some of the structures in place which allow local people to contribute to the decisions which affect them. Sleeping Giants' Grace Cardozo introduced us to Arnstein's Ladder of Participation (1969) and the Community Empowerment Act (2015).   I felt it would be a good time to share the fundamental principles of both with our local communities, particularly given the level of rural change we can expect to see over the next decade and the amount of (often impenetrable) jargon used to describe it. As we enter the 'Just Transition' to the 'Green Recovery', address 'Land Reform' and develop 'Regional Land Use Partnerships' using 'Nature Based Solutions' to meet 'Net Zero' targets, not to mention 'auditing Natural Capital' and 'public money for public goods'. We need to find a way to wade through the jargon and enable our communities. The Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 legislation, introduced by the Scottish Government, will help people have more say in the decisions that affect them and more power to take care of things themselves. They also help by giving community groups money to make them stronger, and asking public bodies to make sure they listen to what communities want. The eleven key points are: 1 – National Outcomes National Outcomes describe what we want Scotland to be like. The Act says that national outcomes should be published. 2 – Community Planning Community Planning is how public bodies work together and with the community in each council area to make life better for people. 3 – Participation Requests If a community group has an idea to make services better, they can make a participation request to the public body that runs the service. The public body will have to listen to the community group's idea and talk to them about how it might work.   4 – Community Rights to Buy Land The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 gave rural communities and crofting communities special rights to buy land. 5 – Asset Transfer A community group can make an asset transfer request for any land or buildings which a relevant authority owns or rents from someone else. 6 – Delegation of Forestry Commissioners' Functions The Act will allow Scottish Forestry to delegate its responsibilities in connection to land that Arnstein's Ladder of Participation, created by Sherry Arnstein in her book The Citizen's Handbook, first printed in 1969. is leased to community groups. 7 – Football Clubs The Act allows the Scottish Ministers to make new laws to make sure fans have a say in how their club is run. 8 – Common Good 'Common good' is property that local councils have been given to help local people. 9 – Allotments Local councils will have to keep a list of people who want an allotment - people will have a right to have a 250 square metre allotment and rents must be fair. 10 – Participation in Public Decision-making People should be able to have their say in decisions that affect them. 11 – Non-domestic Rates This allows local councils to reduce business rates for different types of business.   Legislation is all well and good but, to put it into practice on the ground, we need consultations that are more than a tick box exercise included grudgingly to get a project over the line.   Arnstein's Ladder of Participation (see illustration above) is a valuable tool to see how much meaningful engagement and participation is really going on. Is it nonparticipation, tokenism and informing? Or genuine empowerment, which incorporates partnership, citizen control and delegated power. "The ladder is a guide to seeing who has power when important decisions are being made. It has survived for so long because people continue to confront processes that refuse to consider anything beyond the bottom rungs." (The Citizen's Handbook) There are many helpful resources about the Community Empowerment Act and the Ladder of Participation available online. We would love to hear your experiences of local instances of good engagement, occasions when it could have been done better and what your hopes and aspirations are for land-use change and social justice in the Glenkens over the coming decades. Please send your thoughts to the Gazette email, which can be found on the back page. Morag Leeming MARBRACK GARDEN SERVICES - mowning - strimming - hedge cutting - pruning All debris removed Contact Rob & Rita 07554843219 Glenkens Gazette page 8 Threave Gardening Show 2021 The National Trust for Scotland’s Threave Gardening Show is back, and this year it's full of surprises. The three-day event takes place from 4 to 6 June with an open-air plant sale as well as other socially-distanced garden activities for all the family over the weekend. Sam Gallacher, operations manager at Threave, said: “Our first Threave Gardening Show in 2019 was a great success and that’s why we took it online last year with the support of our local strategic partners, the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership Scheme. We're very much looking forward this year to welcoming visitors back to the garden and, having learned from our virtual experiences about how we can communicate our horticultural knowledge in video form, we will be integrating this into the physical space of the garden.” The team will be showcasing a number of specialist nurseries with plants for sale, as well as presenting a flower extravaganza from a group of skilled and dedicated volunteer flower arrangers in Threave House. Attendees will also have the opportunity to gain advice and ideas from expert gardeners and students from the famous National Trust Scotland's Threave walled garden © Sarina G Photography School of Heritage Gardening who have innovated, transformed and developed our outstanding garden for over sixty years. Michelle Robertson, visitor services manager at Threave, says: “Throughout the weekend we’ll have cream teas in the Terrace Café, artisan pulled meat brioche buns and ice-cream specials at the Stables Café and retail offers all weekend. We are even hoping to have craft activities for the under-12s so keep a look-out for updates on our Facebook page." Upon arrival, visitors will receive a special map of the garden identifying the location of the plant market, the flower extravaganza, and each of the QR-codes which link to the video demonstrations. To ensure that all visitors can enjoy a safe and socially distanced visit numbers and the duration of each visit will be limited. Tickets can be booked for the following time slots: 10am-12noon; 12.30-2.30pm and 3-5pm. Booking online is essential - to book visit https://nts.cloudvenue.co.uk/ threavegardeningshow Balmaclellan House Open Garden The gardens at Balmaclellan House were open on Sunday 2 May under Scotland’s Garden Scheme and, despite it being a cold day, there were 114 visitors plus children. There was a really nice atmosphere with a mix of tourists, garden scheme regulars and locals dropping in to meet and catch up on the news. The formal garden at Balmaclellan House is based on the shape of the Balmaclellan mirror, an historic artefact found in Balmaclellan Parish in 1861. The mirror is very early Iron Age, dating to between 110 and 240 AD. Mirrors such as this have been found in southern Britain, but it is unique in Scotland. The mirror is of national significance and is housed in the National Museum of Scotland. The mirror has been on a tour of the UK as part of a collaboration between the National Museum of Scotland and the British Museum but has never been exhibited in the Glenkens. Due to its value, it would be a major problem to get the original for exhibition in this area. However, through funding from the Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership, there are plans for a bronze replica to be on permanent display in Balmaclellan Smiddy. The actual casting will be a public event held at the Men’s Shed in Balmaclellan - this project has been delayed due to COVID but will hopefully progress later in 2021. The Balmaclellan House garden was designed in 2012 by Emma Gibson from Balmaclellan, who was inspired by the mirror, and the planting scheme has since been further developed and maintained by Billy Orr. Prior to the redesign, this area of the garden had been a tennis court. A total of £620 was raised during the open garden, 50% of which is distributed by Scotland's Garden Scheme to national charities and 50% going to a local recipient, which in this instance is the Glenkens Community & Arts Balmaclellan House garden, based on the design of the Trust. iron age local artefact, the Balmaclellan mirror. Glenkens Gazette Arndarroch Open Days Arndarroch, situated on the B7000 five miles north of Dalry, commands fine views of Kendoon Loch and Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. In 1990 the present garden was a bare hillside with thin, rocky soils. This challenge was compounded by rabbits, nettles, docks, thistles and strong winds. The birds were few. Undaunted, owner Annikki Lindsay used the natural features to create a very special garden full of surprises that blend in with the natural surroundings. Today the garden and the predators exist harmoniously. The hostas are no longer at the mercy of slugs as these are controlled naturally by frogs, toads, birds and hedgehogs. Rabbit-proof cultivars have been chosen and the rabbits, still numerous, do not cause the devastation they once did. Many birds choose to make the garden their home or visit it seasonally including barn owls, house martins and swallows. There are natural nesting sites and food as well as nesting boxes. Development of the garden has taken 30 years and has evolved beyond the original plans for it. The owner has learnt that the best outcome can be achieved by working with nature and not against it, resulting in a unique garden to wander around and sit in to contemplate the magnificent views and to focus on individual aspects of the garden. Arndarroch Garden will be open on one day each month over the coming months, giving you a chance to view it as the seasons change. The first Open Days will be on Saturday 19 June and Saturday 17 July, from 10am to 4pm. The garden will be open under the umbrella of the Glenkens Church of Scotland. Entry page 9 View of Kendoon Loch from Arndarroch garden and teas will be by donation, and will support the local Church of Scotland congregations. PORTRAIT OF A COMMUNITY An outdoor photography exhibition is to be held at the Green Well of Scotland, outside Carsphairn. The exhibition, which tells the story of the area’s local community and heritage, will be launched on Sunday 27 June and will be open to the public until the end of September. Documenting images taken at the Green Well of Scotland of locals from Carsphairn parish in May 2021, this exhibition captures the local community as they emerge from the unprecedented experience of a national lockdown. The exhibition, which will be mounted outside the Carsphairn Heritage Centre and the Green Well of Scotland, has been captured by professional photographer Alicia Bruce, whose work is part of the National Galleries of Scotland collections. More than 180 members of the local community were invited to step forward and be photographed at the well. The Green Well of Scotland is a well- The Green Well of Scotland photographed at dawn on Beltane (1 May) 2021 by Matt Hickman Dear Editor, The article about the archaelogical survey of Upper Gairloch (April/May 2021) suggests that a family was evicted from their home to make way for a larger farm. There is no evidence for this. In 1880 the grazing farms of Upper and Lower Gareloch, containing 2,025 acres were advertised to let from Whitsunday 1881. 170 acres were deemed to be meadow. These farms were again advertised to let from Whitsunday 1890. The outgoing tenants were James Gray, Ewanston, Balmaclellan and Major JM Kennedy, Knocknalling. Both were non-resident. William Little, the shepherd, lived in Lower Gareloch. There were probably similar advertisements in previous years, but, known historic site sitting next to the river Deugh (Dee) at the foot of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. Said to be bottomless, the 30-foot diameter pool is the focus of many local legends. Historical sources suggest it was visited regularly in times gone by as it was believed its water had healing properties and locals believe it is one of the Fons Scotiae mentioned in Saint Columba’s biography. The Green Well of Scotland is situated down-river from Knockengorroch, where the world-renowned greenfield festival takes place each year. Katch Holmes, Knockengorroch’s festival co-producer, is the creative force behind the exhibition. Having grown up in the community of Carsphairn, Katch has first-hand knowledge of the parish and its residents and was delighted to be able to reach out to as many locals as possible to invite them to be a part of the project. Dr Peter Hewitt of Dumfries and Galloway Museums said: “There are few wells that can boast a richer folklore than the Green Well of Scotland. Tucked away in a remote part of Galloway, the well is seemingly ageless and bottomless. Here you will find healing lore, devil lore, stories of witches and avian guardians, lairds, covenanters and a fugitive ‘alchemist’. Above all, the Green Well is a place of beauty, a place where the regions’ cultural memory is stored like a battery." where no aspiring tenants were willing to embark on investing in land with no arable fields for growing oats, the staple food source prior to the introduction of potatoes, the farms were let to farmers on lower ground. Shepherds were hired to manage these upland farms which were known as 'led' farms. No suggestion of 'clearance'. AB Hall, Moniaive Glenkens Gazette page 10 Having Fun at Dalry ELC At Dalry Early Learning & Childcare Centre (formerly the school nursery) the children have settled back in after being away due to COVID restrictions. With rules at present encouraging time outside we have been doing most of our play outdoors, which isn't an issue with us as we love learning in an outdoor environment. This has enabled us to look at our learning environment and introduce planting beds for the children to learn about gardening. Gardening is an interactive playground that stimulates all of their senses - growing plants and nutritional food, tasting the food, noticing and enjoying the different smells: and learning how to take care of living things and the science that is involved through growing. The children will become responsible, looking after the plants, helping them grow and learning about the lifecycle of the plants, starting with a seed. We asked the children what they would like to grow in the nursery and ordered the seeds, which the children have planted ready to go into the beds. The children also helped build up the beds, filling them with soil, filling the wheelbarrows up, and transporting them to the beds. Lots of teamwork, sharing, and turn-taking involved in this procedure, all the time through their play and involvement they were learning. We can never have enough plants at Dalry ELC as the children use the herbs in their mud kitchen play, stimulating their senses. If you have any spare plants that we could use we would be very grateful. Just pass them Children at Dalry ELC engaged in planting and watering their seeds. over the wall into the nursery garden when you are passing. Please label them, just in case we can't recognise the plant. Julie Moore Glenkens Schools Cluster Update Hello from Dalry and Kells Primary Schools. Things are slowly returning to normal at school and with each passing week there seems to be a further relaxation of COVID rules. Long may this continue! All being well we will soon be able to do certain PE games indoors if the weather continues to be so harsh. In Dalry we have been working hard on several fronts but wanted to share news about the library. Our school library has always had a designated space but has never quite achieved the quiet, peaceful atmosphere adults associate with a library. However, thanks to the hard work of several members of staff, led by Mrs Devlin, we have achieved a transformation. A specific space in another room has been designated for our non-fiction collection of books, allowing more space in the library. This extra room has enabled us to create a comfortable seating space which has been designed as a quiet sensory space for children, complete with a fish tank and three friendly goldfish. I would like to take the opportunity to also thank Dalry Community Council for funding new books related to health and wellbeing, and Sharon Currie who organised a fundraiser to add further to these purchases. Meanwhile, at Kells the children have been working on the environment with litter picks and learning how to be more eco-friendly. Children in the younger class have also been busy creating puppet shows. Across the schools this week we have been taking part in activities for Mental Health Week. Coming out of the pandemic it is important for us all to realise the impact the restrictions of the last few months have had on us. Our children are no different - in class the children have talked a lot about feelings, kindness, relationships and experienced ways in which we can support our mental health such as being outdoors, yoga and mindfulness. Paul Scrimshaw, Headteacher, Glenkens Primary Schools Partnership (Carsphairn, Dalry & Kells Primary Schools) Above left: Some of the P3/4/5 children with books funded through Dalry Community Council. Above right: Kells children enjoy a puppet show by fellow pupils. Glenkens Gazette GLENKENS MUSINGS “Life is like a wheel, sometimes you’re at the top, sometimes you’re at the bottom, but remember you always have a chance to turn things around” When I stumbled upon this quote one day while scrolling endlessly on Facebook, I realised how appropriate it was for our current day and age. It also gave me the reassurance that I could change things for the better if I wanted to. Even if that does sound sort of clichéd and corny, it still made me smile and feel a bit more grateful for the life I’d been given. However, speaking out about our own mental health is something us Brits are not accustomed to. Mental health seems to be a very taboo subject. Why is that? Do we see it as a sign of weakness? As a sign of failure? Many people have tried to answer these questions but unfortunately have been page 11 unsuccessful. Everyone's mental health fluctuates - we all go through difficult times and we all go to dark places some point in our lives. It’s a part of life and no one knows why. Seeking help or advice about your own wellbeing is far from being a sign of weakness - it is actually a triumph. It shows that you are strong and have the right mindset to make yourself well again. Always trying to conquer difficult things by yourself can often backfire, just leading to you digging a bigger hole for yourself to escape from - trust me, I know. Reaching out for help at these times takes courage. Everybody deals with their problems differently. The main thing to do is find an activity that you find enjoyable, calming and stress free as it will certainly make things easier. These can be simple things like going for a walk, getting stuck into a good book or pottering about in the garden. Something simple to distract you from your thoughts and worries just for a little while can help immensely. Now I know I am not an expert in this field but, at the risk of sounding pretentious and cocky, I do know bottling your emotions up and putting labels on them will do as much good as skydiving without a parachute. This is why it is so important to make time to do things that give you pleasure and to try open up to people once in a while. Talking to people gives you the opportunity to vent your stresses and thoughts in a healthy way, and will certainly make you feel more at ease. So if you come across an inspirational quote online one day, do take it into consideration - it might just be what turns things around. James Wallace CatStrand Youth Arts Programme Lucy Smith from Moniaive will be taking on the role of youth arts coordinator with the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust. With a background in environmental art and traditional music, as well as time spent working with a circus, Lucy will be able to draw on her wide range of skills and experience to support her role which is based at CatStrand, New Galloway. Lucy has been involved in organising and running projects for the Youth Music Initiative and Feis Rois, and the CatStrand team are excited to have her on board. She'll be getting started on planning the summer programme of activities for 5-18 year olds, as well as coordinating the Youth Spaces project that will be running youthled pop-up youth clubs and hang-out spaces around the Glenkens this summer. Aidan Nicol, CatStrand Could you help support our youth spaces project to get off the ground this summer? We are looking for volunteers 18+ willing to commit to as little as 1 x 2hr support session for pop-up trial youth clubs in New Galloway Town Hall, New Galloway Park and visiting mobile youth spaces in Crossmicheal, Balmaclellan, Dalry and Carsphairn over the summer months. Please get in touch if you'd like to know more the project runs from June to August with weekly sessions, so even helping support one of these in your village would be a big help. To find out more email aidan@catstrand.com or call 01644 420 374 or 07401973019. Young Nature Blogger Young people who love nature and the outdoors are invited to take part in a summer writing challenge. Entrants are asked to write up to 500 words about nature in our Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere. One of the competition judges, Andrew Bielinski, RSPB area manager, said: "We hope Young Nature Blogger 2021 inspires young people to engage with nature, be amazed at the diversity, and learn why it’s so important that we all nurture and care for it so that it remains wonderful for generations to come." The challenge is being run by Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere. Entrants must be under 21 and entries should be sent to info@gsabiosphere.org.uk Winners will receive wildlife goodie bags and their blogs will feature in DG Life magazine and Ayrshire Magazine as well as Biosphere websites in the autumn. Glenkens Gazette page 12 Can Carsphairn Save its School? Carsphairn Primary School is once again under threat of closure. No stranger to this situation, Carsphairn community has on numerous occasions over the years had to fight to save their school. Carsphairn Primary is set in an unusually remote upland location and, if the school closed, a round-trip to and from Dalry Primary (the nearest primary school) would mean a journey of up to 40 miles a day for pupils from the furthest reaches of the parish. On top of the distance, in winter the weather often is more extreme up in the Carsphairn hills - so it's not surprising that the community has always been successful in fighting its corner. This latest instalment of the school saga sees Carsphairn Primary being ‘mothballed’ owing to an absence of primary aged children in the catchment area. Various reasons have caused the low numbers over the past few years including necessary relocation owing to the Carsphairn floods of 2015 and parents changing their employment. As with all remote rural areas, there are fluctuations in population – a family or two moving into or out of the catchment has a huge impact on the school. The mothballing of the school was agreed to by the local community in February 2019 on the basis that there would be an annual review for a minimum of three years - potentially longer due to the 'very remote rural' designation of Carsphairn school. But now D&G Council’s education department wish to start a consultation for closure. One of the key reasons seems to be that there have been no placing requests received for the school over the past two years. However, the community have recently discovered that it is currently not possible to submit a placing request or enrol a child at Carsphairn Primary. At the moment there are at least three preschool children in Carsphairn parish who are entitled to education at ELC (Nursery) level. There is also a child living in the community whose parents relocated to Carsphairn mainly because of the presence of the school, just a minute or so walk from their home; the family is currently home-schooling. Over the years we have seen our rural population decline and with it falling school rolls but, leading up to and since the COVID pandemic, there has been a shift in rural demographics in the Glenkens. Over the past few months houses have been selling within days of going on the market and rental properties are snapped up before they even hit the letting agents. Dalry Primary has received an unprecedented number of registrations of interest – some classes are at capacity already and children are having to be signposted to Kells school as an alternative. These changes do not reflect the falling school roll with which we have become familiar Top: The front cover of the current Carsphairn Primary School over the years. brochure. Above: Carsphairn Primary School pupils around 1920. In two years Will we see the school grow again in the coming decade? Carsphairn Primary School demographics and the extraordinary will have served the community for times we are currently living in, it seems 300 years. Considering Carsphairn imperative that a way is found to enable community's history of resilience and Carsphairn Primary to remain at the determination, as well fluctuating rural heart of the community. Supporting Our Gaelic Heritage Gaelic is a living language and part of a rich cultural tradition which belongs to the whole of Scotland. Spoken in Galloway until around the 17th century, there were still a few Galloway Gaelic speakers as recently as the 20th century. The Scottish Government’s Gaelic Language Plan aims to increase the number of people learning, speaking and using Gaelic to ensure that it has a secure future in Scotland as an official language of Scotland, commanding equal respect to the English language. A few Gaelic schools exist in Scotland, producing fluent bi-lingual children starting from nursery age and sometimes even younger. Despite what may be commonly believed, children are born with the ability to become bilingual and multilingual - there is more than enough room in the brain for two or more languages. A growing body of research confirms that Gaelic education is a success, with pupils involved performing better than their Englishmedium peers in English reading and at least as well in science, maths and English writing. This is a critical time for the future of Gaelic. The position of the language is extremely fragile and the declining numbers of those speaking Gaelic fluently threatens the survival of Gaelic as a living language in Scotland. It is essential that steps are taken to create a sustainable future for Gaelic in Scotland. Carsphairn Comunity Council would like to promote the Gaelic language in support of the heritage of southwest Scotland as there seems to be a dearth of a Gaelic tradition in this area. We are looking into the potential for creating a Gaelic hub in Carsphairn. If you have an interest in Gaelic and would like to be involved in this exciting venture, please email Liz Holmes at lizholmes21@gmail.com Glenkens Gazette Hello - my name is Fiona and I’m Glenkens Community & Arts Trust’s new… [takes a deep breath] … Volunteer, Capacity Building & Community Resilience Officer… Phew, that's a mouthful! I work out of the Smiddy in Balmaclellan, along with Brian and Chris, and we are the Connecting in Communities (CiC) Team. I’m very excited to be getting to know folk in and around the area and discovering what a wealth of talent lies within the communities of the Glenkens. CiC have been very active over the last year in finding novel ways to continue to facilitate some of the groups online, but we are now feeling very optimistic about meeting up in the flesh, so to speak. The Glenkens Community & Arts Trust recognises the huge contribution its volunteers make to the everyday running of the organisation and, as activities and page 13 our buildings start to open up again, the call-out to volunteers echoes through the glens. Our longstanding volunteers are welcomed back with (socially distanced) open arms, but we also welcome new volunteers. Anyone who would like the opportunity to learn new skills or maybe help teach others new skills, or just get out of the house for a few hours and make new friends would be welcome. Many people might have volunteered for the first time out and about in the community as part of the COVID community resilience response and now that - touch wood - the call is less urgent, would like to continue volunteering in some form or other. Please have a look at the Volunteering section of our new website www. gcat.scot for more information about volunteering with us or drop me a line at fiona@catstrand.com. Although many of our groups will be restarting soon, we are always looking for new ideas for meeting. If you have a particular interest or passion that you would like to develop or share but are not quite sure how to get involved or set up a group we would like to hear from you. We can offer guidance, be it governance of the group or marketing your activity. Connecting in Communities aims to facilitate activities throughout the Glenkens and as our name suggests, we are all about getting people together in order to combat social and rural isolation and build confidence in seeing one another again. If you live in one of the Glenkens smaller communities and would like to get involved please get in contact with Brian, Chris or myself for more information. Fiona Limbrey, Volunteer, GCAT Capacity Building & Community Resilience Officer fiona@catstrand.com Stay Up To Date with the Glenkens & District Trust As ever there has been lots going with the Glenkens & District Trust (GDT). We have been busy with the recent Glenkens Summit event (see the interviews with some of the participants on p4-5), the ongoing work relating to the Community Action Plan and our preparations for the next round of decision making. The latest round of the Blackcraig Windfarm Fund closed on 6 April, with another great response from the community, and the Trust will be considering 17 applications in early June. Applicants should hear back on the Trustees’ decision by mid-June at the latest. The intervening weeks in between Fund close and decision making are used for assessing – every application goes through eligibility checks, due diligence and an assessment process delivered by our partners, Foundation Scotland. Decision making sits with GDT, based on the robust assessing process Foundation Scotland uses, which is one of the reasons we like working with them. Trustees bring their local knowledge and expertise to the decision making table, but all awards are made on merit, in accordance with the Fund Strategy, and Trustees are not part of the decision on any applications where there is a conflict of interest. For more information do contact Suzy at Foundation Scotland suzy@foundationscotland.org.uk As well as these activities, the Trustees have recently been working on setting up GDT’s Associate Membership arrangements, which will essentially work along the lines of a ‘Friends of GDT’ group. Associate members are different to GDT’s members - every organisation is different, but in GDTs case its membership is drawn from the community councils (as entities) in its area of operation. Associate Membership is a way of GDT being accountable to the wider community and a way for interested people and groups to be kept up-to-date with what Glenkens & District Trust is doing, but without having responsibility for governing the Trust. Associate members don’t have voting rights but will receive email updates on the work of GDT, invitations to GDT general meetings (associate members are welcome to come along, ask questions and hear more about what is going on), and hear first about opportunities to engage in events like the recent Glenkens & District Summit. Associate members can be individuals, institutions, organisations and bodies who support and want to engage with the work of GDT - you don’t have to be resident in the area. This structure preserves the fundamental role of community councils in the governance of GDT, while making sure GDT is accessible to the wider community without individuals or groups having to be community councillors, trustees or grantees - this reflects GDT's aim to be open and accountable and to support a sense of community ownership of the valuable resource that ‘community benefit’ monies represents. If you would like to become an associate member please contact GDT on our new email address - info@ glenkenstrust.org.uk - and a form will be sent out to you by Suzy or one of the team at Foundation Scotland, which is providing GDT with administrative support for associate membership. Fiona Smith, Chairman, GDT Glenkens Gazette page 14 CatStrand Highlights We're excited to be presenting a diverse and playful programme at CatStrand and around the Glenkens as we return to live events this summer. Wednesday 28 July with a day of outdoor performances and indoor workshops with their Stories Just in Case shows. Performed out of a suitcase on wheels, this pop-up theatre will share classic fables - there will be a performance in the morning and another in the afternoon with workshop sessions in between. Live music and film returns Our On the Water event on to CatStrand with socially 10 June is a collaboration with distanced café style seating the Loch Ken Trust, supported in place for all shows. We're by Galloway Glens Landscape pleased to showcase some Partnership, that will bring music of the region's finest musical to the shores of Loch Ken in a talent with performances from special concert that you can enjoy Zoe Bestel and The Bookshop from the water. Tickets include Band over the summer. hire of a kayak, paddleboard, Films include Exhibition on boat or canoe - it's floating room Screen's Sunflowers - a The Swings presented by All or Nothing theatre only! The Galloway Agreement, unique opportunity to see, as company, coming to CatStrand on 21 and 22 July a collaboration featuring four never before, this series of (photograph by Suzanne Heffron). of D&G’s best known traditional spectacular paintings - and musicians, will play from the a postponed screening of shore at the Galloway Activity with Crossmichael Arts, on 23 July. Icelandic documentary Lobster Soup in Centre, who are hosting the event. An And it's not just for children; come and June that includes a bowl of locally-made event not to be missed. have a go...your swinging will activate a lobster bisque from Kircudbright Cookery As the summer holidays arrive in soundscape full of memories as you feel School to enjoy alongside the screening. Galloway we're hosting a giant swing the rush of air past your face and are For more information on all of the set - All or Nothing theatre company's inspired by the aerialists who show us above events visit www.gcat.scot to five metre high giant swings feature what you can really do with a swing! explore our new Glenkens Community & two performing aerialists and a sound Venue partners Dalry Town Hall Arts Trust website and book tickets. installation where you can play, watch, host Clydebuilt Puppet Theatre on The CatStrand Team and listen. This will all be set up for an interactive performance in New Galloway Park on 21 and 22 July, and in Crossmichael, hosted in partnership Thank You Sam! Sam Rushton moved on from her role as Community Engagement Worker (CEW) for New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE) in May to take up a full-time role in education, and will be very much missed by the whole community. Sam joined NGCE in January 2018, shortly after the purchase of New Galloway community shop. Her role was funded by the Big Lottery ‘Growing Community Assets’ fund as part of the award for buying and renovating the shop and flats above, and has been pivotal in bringing the New Galloway and Kells community closer together. The role was part-time, although you would hardly know it from Sam’s boundless enthusiasm and endless creativity. It was also a role in two halves, as so many things are at the moment. In 2018 and 2019 Sam focused on community events that brought people together, from pot-luck suppers to Ladies Give It a Go water-sports to Walking Football in the park. In September 2019, she organised the first Glenkens Food Month, bringing together organisations and businesses from across the Glenkens Sam (right) receiving flowers from NGCE chair Helen Keron. to remind us all just what a wealth of local food we have access Galloway is very grateful for all of to here. Sam’s help, ideas and sheer energy Then, in 2020, everything changed and for getting things over the finish line. Sam shifted immediately to making us From organising the amazing Resilience feel like we were together even though Team volunteers to accessing funding to we had to be apart. From distanced VE support the community, Sam’s work has Day celebrations to Easter Bunny housebenefited all of us in one way or another. visits, from High Street galleries to the Sam will be sadly missed but I, along amazing virtual Glenkens Hogmanay, with all the NGCE board and staff, wish she never flagged. She even snuck in a her all the very best for her exciting new second Glenkens Food Month in between role, and we are very glad we will still see lockdowns! her around New Galloway! A lesser-known area of her role is Funding for the role continues until the incredible amount of work Sam December 2022 and we look forward to does behind the scenes in supporting welcoming Sam’s successor as soon as individuals and in supporting other possible in June. Watch this space! community organisations. In particular, Helen Keron, Chair, NGCE I know that Local Initiatives in New Glenkens Gazette page 15 Considering the Control of Bovine Tuberculosis in Badgers Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) is a disease which affects both animals and humans.Let us look specifically at badgers and the domestic cow, as this transmission is a focal point due to the potential of TB transmission from infected cattle to humans. It is known that infected badgers can transmit from badger to badger or from badger to cow by contact or, more often, by infecting the food and water the cows may eat and drink. Controlling the population of badgers is considered necessary to reduce the possibility of cross-contamination from badgers to cows. Can bTB be controlled, and if so how should this be done? Controlling Bovine TB by culling badgers reduces the numbers, which in turn reduces the possible contacts with cows; this approach seems to work according to the Department for Environment Food and rural Affairs (DEFRA). Scotland has been officially TB free since 2009 but unfortunately many still believe that badgers are infecting their cows, leading to potentially unnecessary, and illegal, culling of badgers. Regular testing of cattle is carried out and, if the tests are positive, the animals are sent for slaughter. The government awards financial compensation for their slaughtered animals, costing approximately £100 million a year but this does not cover everything - farmers care deeply for their stock and mourn their loss. Another solution is not to kill the badgers but to vaccinate them against the disease, thus halting the spread within the badger population and stopping the contamination of the domestic cow. Vaccinations for cattle are not considered a viable option as it interferes with the current test for bTB. Badgers are a dominant predator in our countryside and the UK hosts 25% of the European badger population. The Welsh assembly released a report which suggested an ecosystem could result in serious damage by removing a major predator such as the badger. Under the Protection of Badgers Act (1992), badgers and their sets across the UK are protected - only licensed individuals are allowed to cull badgers. Badgers are an important part of the ecosystem in the UK. They create habitats for other species in redundant setts and control the population of many predators, which in turn preserves the more vulnerable lower down the food chain. With the dominance of humans, nature can become unbalanced. We live in the UK with an ecosystem not controlled but vastly influenced by us. Consequently, we may have to control some species to maintain a balance. Badger culling appears to work with regard to the spread of TB to cattle, but is it necessary when a vaccine is available? Bovine TB can destroy a herd of cows and destroy a farmer's livelihood. But to cull badgers when there are other ways to manage bTB seems to me a less than sensible thing to do. Andrew Metcalf, Hawkrigg, Dalry CROSSMICHAEL COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY CENTRE Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine 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 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 16 A reader sent in this photograph of two old teapots someone has placed on the gateposts down by the river near Dalry. Photo captions anyone? NOW ONLINE! Wright’s Shop & Post Office 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 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 17 Boswell Book Festival Goes Online Boswell Book Festival is the world's only festival of biography and memoir. Normally held at Dumfries House, near New Cumnock, the festival has become one of the most prestigious cultural events in Scotland and has attracted a host of writers and personalities such as Judi Dench, John Byrne, Ben Macintyre, Maggie O’Farrell, Susan Calman and many more. Along with the main festival there is a hugely popular Children’s Festival featuring some of the best and most popular children’s authors, illustrators and performers, bringing biography and memoir alive. Inspired by the great Ayrshire writer James Boswell of Auchinleck, the unique theme is taken from the genre at which he excelled, namely the telling of people’s life stories. Establishing himself as the father of modern biography with the publication of The Life of Samuel Johnson, 1791, his journals, first published in the 1950s, became best-sellers worldwide. The 2020 Sky Arts series followed his travels in Scotland with Dr Johnson, as recorded in The Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides. This year, the Boswell Book Festival is online for the first time so no need to travel - the event runs from 10-16 June and you can join in wherever you are - and all events are free. At the Children's Festival, children can journey back in time with popular Dundonian writer Chae Strathie as he zips through ancient Egypt, laugh with Adam Murphy as he makes his Corpse Talk Comics come to life, and settle down with some colouring with Eilidh Muldoon on a Hebridean adventure. With the kids happily entertained, why not take time out to enjoy talks from Troon-born Andrew Cotter whose Labradors, Olive and Mabel, have become social media superstars. Or join Janey Godley who kept us laughing through lockdown with her hilarious Nicola Sturgeon voiceovers. Alex Renton digs deep into his Ayrshire family’s history as slave and plantation owners while Yorkshire Shepherdess, Amanda Owen, as seen on Channel 5's Our Yorkshire Farm spills more beans on farming life with nine children. To find out more about any of the talks, including events for schools, visit www.boswellbookfestival.co.uk and follow the instructions to register. The talks will continue to be online until the end of June. Glenkens Gazette page 18 BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT "Initially I gave out some samples to friends to see what they thought, and they all loved them. Next I got a menu together and created a logo and we've been busy from week one. "What I love about the business is having a massive fridge full of cheese! Also people get really excited about their orders, so that's really nice. I've had loyal customers since the first week, which means we must be doing something right!" The Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Company started life last May in Stockbridge, Edinburgh. Dreamed up one rainy morning by Hannah Gould, the company aims to create one of our comfort food staples - homemade macaroni cheese - delivered to your door. "I can't believe it's our first anniversary already!" says Hannah. visit their Facebook page @ thestockbridgemacandcheeseco From the August/September edition of the Gazette, The Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Co will be sponsoring our Photo of the Issue competition, offering two portions to the lucky winner - so get snapping! Hannah grew up in the Glenkens and moved back in February. "It's lovely being back home in the Glenkens - having so much space and being closer to friends and family," says Hannah. Hannah's plan for the future is to make their mouthwatering mac 'n' cheese available country-wide, and to get it stocked in shops - so watch this space. All options are available vegan and gluten-free - to see a menu or make an order Pictured is 'The Spicy One' - classic mac 'n' cheese with jalapenos and chilli cheese. - 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 - 12th June and 10th July - Click & Collect online with the Glenkens Food Hub at https:// openfoodnetwork.org.uk/glenkens-food-hub/shop or just visit us on the day (8 May onwards) - for further details call 07776 034 260 entry by donation on the door (15 miles from Castle Douglas on A713) Glenkens Gazette page 19 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 20 Glenkens Gazette page 21 The Optimistic Environmentalist GREEN ROOFS What is a Green Roof? The term 'green roof' may be used to indicate roofs that use some form of green technology but, for this article, it refers to a roof that is partially or completely covered with vegetation in a growing medium, planted over a waterproofing membrane. Green roofs can also be called living roofs, eco-roofs, oikosteges, vegetated roofs and VCPH (Horizontal Vegetated Complex Partitions if you want to impress the neighbours!). Rooftop ponds are a form of green roof which can be used to treat grey water. Green roofs can be put on any size of structure ranging from bin stores, bike racks, sheds, garages right up to larger buildings including houses and industrial sites. Why Would You Want a Green Roof? The most obvious reason for a green roof is to liven up a space and make it a more beautiful or relaxing environment. Green roofs increase the habit for insects, birds and other wildlife including plants. They can create a corridor for birds or butterflies, for instance, to travel through an area. Green roofs use the natural functions of plants to filter water and treat air in urban and suburban landscapes. Rainwater is trapped by the garden substrate, taken up by the plants' roots and through transpiration and evaporation is released into the air in a more controlled manner. A green roof can absorb up to 75" of rainwater, helping reduce stormwater run-off. Green roofs serve as a green wall, filtering pollutants and carbon dioxide out of the air, helping to lower rates of diseases such as asthma. This carbon sequestering helps the plants to grow whilst reducing our carbon footprint. Plants can also filter pollutants and heavy metals out of rainwater. Some of these chemicals for example, nitrogen and phosphorous - can actually help the plants grow. Green roofs help to keep buildings cooler in the summer by reflecting and absorbing solar radiation, stopping it reaching the roof. In winter, plants and the growing system reduces heat loss so increases the natural warmth of the building. Green roofs also help to insulate a building for sound; the soil helps to block lower frequencies and the plants block higher frequencies. In some cases, ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY SCANNING green roofing can extend the lifespan of a roof; by covering the waterproofing membrane with growing medium and vegetation, it shields the roof from UV radiation and physical damage. Things to Think About When Making a Green Roof • What do you want the green roof for? • How much of a green roof do you want; a bin or bike store roof, or your whole house roof? • What time and budget do you have to build and maintain it? • What access will you have to the roof, eg for maintenance? • Does the roof of the structure need reinforcing? Some green roofs can be very heavy depending on the type, its components and how much rainfall and wind it will experience. If you are planning to green roof your house or a large shed/garage, check local planning regulations and find an architect who has experience in this area to help design it. If you're not sure and feel daunted, you could start small and see how it goes how about a green roofed hen house or playhouse for the kids? Good luck and enjoy the effort, the learning and the outcome! Denise MacDonald-Kiernan 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 On the A713 just north of Dalry, in the layby near Carsfad, is a new information board about the Glenkens Pilgrims Way. It makes for interesting reading and marks a nearby ancient crossing point of the river Ken - well worth finding time to stop and have a gander! 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 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 2 gillets, small, not worn; Freeview HD box, unused; Marantz CD player, minor defect; Standard spot lamp. Contact: 01644 420 852 Ceramic electric cooker hob and oven. Both are Creda models; the hob is creda model 42295 (width 770mm x 470mm depth). The oven is Creda Europa Solar Plus (height 890mm, width 600mm depth 570mm). Donation to LING contact raglaister@aol.com Pair of heavy duty aluminium ladders, 4m 23cm (just short of 16 foot each). Contact: 07840 506 516 Glass mirror, 33" x 67"; Wine making kit includes fermentation buckets and demijohns, etc. Contact: 01644 430 062 Wooden hen house, with 3 perches. 132cm wide x 120cm deep x 124cm high. Contact: 01644 430 218. Coal, large pile in garage, free to collect - suitable for open fires. Bring bags or a trailer just off the Lorg Road. Contact: 07946 183538 Metal double bed frame, over 50 yrs old with wooden bed ends (no mattress); 2 chests of drawers perfect for up-cycling - very well made; 2 bathroom cabinets with mirrored doors (mirrors slightly marked); single bed with mattress, very good condition. Contact: 01644 430 373 Dry, clean tree stumps suitable for being made into garden furniture/creations for someone handy with a chainsaw. Timber, ready to be taken away – needs someone with a chainsaw and trailer, etc. Contact: Jim on 07749 087 699 90mm plastic scoops, small square plastic boxes with handles and lids (will stack) roughly 3kg and 1.8kg (good for use as compost caddies). Bottle brush and syphon tube for wine making. Contact: Sue 07563 718 011 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 2x 2metre plastic curtain tracks with hooks and fittings. Contact: 07724 878 796 Oil tank. Contact: 07703 303 805 Any drummers out there? I'm clearing out the shed, drums & bits, 3 drums, some cases, cymbal stand, spare parts - stands, etc. Contact: Blue on 07934 361 526 WANTED LING would welcome any spare paving slabs to help with making muddy sections of walks passable. Please phone David Hardy on 01644 420 422. Fridge-freezer. Contact: 07952 280 902 2-seater leather sofa. Contact: Jennifer on 01644 430 373 Heavy duty strimmer, the kind with handles. Can pay for a decent secondhand one. Contact: Jim on 07749 087 699 Old lawn mowers/ strimmers/other small machinery. Non-runners/ broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 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 23 sponsored by Council Recycling Scheme Q&A A Gazette reader has suggested that there are elements of the new council recycling scheme which are a little unclear and asked if we could run a piece giving information on some of the things not included in the leaflet. Below are some points taken from the D&G Council website - to find out more visit www.dumgal.gov.uk/ article/21420/FAQ-s-NewWaste-and-Recycling-Service new Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) on certain drinks containers, including glass. Through this scheme shoppers will pay a deposit of 20p for drinks containers at point of purchase. The deposit is refunded when you return the container to a retailer/collection point - for further information visit www.depositreturn.scot Until this time, please use the glass recycling points in New Galloway (bottom car park, next to the Red Kite info point and industrial units) and Balmaclellan (next to the village shop), or at Tesco in Castle Douglas or other local points • Food waste can either be composted - items such as peelings and cores from recycling (including composting), then recovery (including energy recovery), while waste disposal through landfill should be the very last resort. In most cases, recycling is better for the environment than burning waste to produce energy and certainly better than sending materials to landfill. Zero Waste Scotland's website has lots of useful ideas and advice about reducing and re-using waste https://wasteless. zerowastescotland.org.uk/ Where Does My Recycling Go? Paper, card and cardboard collected from your blue-lidded bin or sack will be baled and sent to reprocessors for recycling into newspapers and packaging. Plastics, metals and cartons from your red-lidded bin or sack will be sorted, baled and sent to reprocessors for recycling into new products. • Communal (shared) bins may be considered where limited space to store bins might be a problem - to discuss this option, contact kerbsiderecycling@dumgal. gov.uk or 030 33 33 3000 • If you are producing more recycling than will fit into the bins, additional recycling bins can be provided free of charge - get in touch on https:// info.dumgal.gov.uk/faultreporting • If you need to downsize or upsize your bins, apply online on the website link above • For those who are partially sighted or blind, the new bins have notches on them to help users distinguish between the different bins. The bin for paper, card and cardboard has one notch on the lip of the lid, and the bin for plastics, metals and cartons has two notches on the lid. • Garden waste will not be collected as part of the new recycling service but there are a number of ways to deal with your garden waste. Home composting is a great solution - it avoids transport and processing costs, reduces CO2 emissions, and gives you free organic matter for your garden. For advice on home composting and offers on home composting bins visit www.dumgal.gov. uk/article/20762/home-composting Garden waste can be taken to your local Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) where you can dispose of it free of charge and it is used to produce compost. If you are unable to home compost or take your garden waste to a HWRC, you can arrange a bulky uplift. For details see www.dumgal.gov.uk/ article/15259/Bulky-waste-collection • With regard to glass, in 2022 the Scottish Government is introducing a fruit and vegetables, egg shells, tea bags and coffee grounds - or alternatively put into your general waste bin. For further information visit www.zerowastescotland. org.uk/reduce-food-waste • I own a holiday home and run it as a business, how will this affect my domestic waste uplifts? If you run a holiday home which you let out for profit, then you should have a trade waste agreement in place to have your waste and recycling materials uplifted and disposed of through a registered waste carrier. A list of fees and charges can be found at www.dumgal. gov.uk/article/15593/Commercial-wastecollection What Are The Benefits of Recycling? • Do I have to recycle? Whilst the council cannot force you to recycle, it is hoped that everyone will play their part. Section 46(4) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 requires householders to use the bins or containers provided by the Council for waste and recycling collections and for the householder to place the correct waste material in the correct bins. • Are there alternatives to recycling? European, UK and Scottish laws all support the principle of a waste hierarchy where waste prevention and re-use are the most preferred options, followed by jars. Glass collected at Recycling Points and Household Waste Recycling Centres will be sorted, crushed and sent to reprocessors for recycling into new glass bottles and • Does my waste end up in landfill? The Ecodeco Mechanical Biological Treatment (MBT) facility on the outskirts of Dumfries will continue to receive Dumfries and Galloway's non-recyclable waste. The waste is shredded and dried by heat produced naturally by 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 the natural water cycle. The dried waste is then refined into several 'fractions' via secondary shredding and other mechanical processes. The principal output of the facility is a fuel used in specialist 'energy from waste' plants. The other fractions are all subject to further treatment at third party facilities. The 8-20mm fraction (glass and stone) is separated with the inert portion becoming an aggregate replacement product. The fines (less than 8mm) fraction is composted and used as a restoration material on landfills and old mines, etc. Ferrous metals are recovered, cleaned by a third party, and recycled. If you need storage containers for your recycling, the black council recycling boxes which are no longer in use are being offered to households free of charge at the council's Household Waste Recycling Centres. Advertisement Glenkens Gazette page 24 Glenkens Gazette page 25 ROADS FROM THE DALRY FERRY This is the third and final instalment of the series of articles by David Bartholomew looking at the history of the river crossing at Dalry. In the court case brought by John Newall against the Earl of Galloway in 1781 over the building of an embankment on the River Ken there was some disagreement among witnesses as to the suitability for carts of the road up by the north corner of Dalry churchyard from haven E (a small bay area some 20 metres south of the end of the suspension bridge on the east side of the river). Some witnesses declared that it was too steep and narrow; whereas another witness, John Gordon, a Dalry joiner, said that he had taken a cart loaded with stones by this route, and had had no problem doing so. The cart had been pulled by a small Galloway pony, the ordinary size of local working horses. He had taken up the challenge of attempting this after hearing another witness, William Good, declare that he had taken loaded carts up and down by this route. Various comments were made about local roads. One witness, William Logie, stated that he knew the high road from St John’s Clauchan to Edinburgh went through the village of Minniaive, and that the road to Dumfries branched off that road. He considered the road via Minniaive to be the most direct route for carriages to Dumfries. He said that before the Grennan Bank road was constructed the most direct road to Dumfries went over the Mulloch Hill by Balmaclellan Church and the Water of Urr; but that the road from Balmaclellan Church to the Water of Urr was only a bridle and drove road. John Grierson, aged 30, agreed with William Logie. He declared that he had seen loaded carts driven up and down Mulloch Hill, and some parts of that road 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 were steeper and rougher than any part of the road leading by the north corner of the churchyard. Another witness, Samuel McMillan, aged 29, said that he had once driven a cart over the Mulloch Hill, but on that occasion he didn’t follow the track of the old road as dykes had been constructed Early river ferry boat, probably similar in design to across it. But the one that would have operated at Dalry. he said he remembered the old road before Braxfield, who gave a final judgment in the construction of the dykes. This April 1785. He gave the Earl of Galloway would imply that the dykes on Mulloch and his heirs and successors authority to Hill could not have been built before the complete the embankment as originally 1750s. planned; also to repair any future Robert Ferguson of Millmark stated damage to it. And forbade John Newall that an alternative longer route for and his heirs, successors or tenants carriages to Dumfries was by the from interrupting any future work. Grennan Bank road, which had recently He also declared that if any damage been much improved, and then on to occurred to the land of John Newall Crossmichael. He affirmed that the or his tenants on the west side of the bridle road from Balmaclellan Church to river in the next ten years that could the Water of Urr was very bad. be shown to be the result of the new One curious piece of information was embankment, the Earl of Galloway shared by Robert Dalzell of Raeford and his heirs and successors would be (now Kenside). In 1745 the young men responsible for funding the repairs. He of the parish of Dalry used to gather also required the Earl ‘to make a good for military training and exercises and sufficient road of communication of at Kirkstyle, the Broom Isle and the the breadth of 24 feet both for horses Holm of Dalry below the embankment and wheel carriages from the landing – though at that time there was no place or haven of the ferry boat’ round embankment. He himself was a member by the north corner of the churchyard of that association. to join up with the existing high road. What was the final result of the court However John Newall was clearly still case? The 1781 Commission, under unhappy with some comments the Earl John Bushby, sheriff clerk of Dumfries, had included in his evidence and penned gathered evidence to be brought before some critical observations which were the Lords of Council and Session. It attached to the judgment. came in time before the infamous Lord David Bartholomew 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 26 GLENKENS PLACE NAMES: PART X Back to our investigation of deserted settlements and their names, continuing up the Forrest Glen. The next settlement as we proceed west along the old track between Knocknalling and Knockreoch is Markland. This was a ruin on the OS map of 1853 and is a Scots place-name, ‘merk’ being a measure of land value. So presumably this farm was valued at one merk. The term merk was borrowed into the version of Gaelic spoken in Galloway and produced place-names locally such as Marg na drochaide ‘merkland of the bridge’ (Muirdrochwood), Cùl Mairg ‘back of the merkland’ (Culmark), Marg Scallach probably ‘bald merkland’ (Marscalloch) and Am Marg Breac ‘the speckled merkland’ (Marbrack). A little further west the old track crosses the Polcairdie Burn. This stream is derived from Poll Cèardaiche, ‘Smithy Burn’. This burn contains the same specific element as Knockcairdie at the top of Dalry. Compare Allt na Cearta ‘burn of the forge’ Culfeightrin, Antrim. A little uphill from the smith’s burn and on the slopes of Knockclune, Cnoc Cluaine, ‘meadow-hill’ are the ruins of Aitkin’s Wa’s, another Scots placename, the ‘waas’ or walls of someone called Aitkin. Again this farm was already ruined by 1853. Continuing west, passing the still occupied Knockreoch farmhouse, nestled with its back to Cnoc Cluaine with the wooded hillock called Drumrearie to its front. This is an interesting hill-name, Gilbert Márkus suggests: "'Hangman’s ridge’ (druim riaghaire) is a possibility. Likewise ‘servitor’s ridge’ (druim riaraich), which might refer to some servant of the royal hunting grounds of Forrest." In respect of the ‘hangman’s ridge’ possibility, is it a coincidence that nearby is the Court Hill of Knocknalling? Upper Knockreoch, Cnoc Riabhach, ‘the brindled hill’ is another former farm site, in ruins already by 1853 and situated across the Polharrow from the Green House, HQ of Natural Power Consultants Ltd. North of the present Forrest Lodge was the holding of Upper Forrest, once more abandoned by 1853. Compare Grey Point, Rinn Riabhach, Bangor County Down. ‘Brindled’ is the primary meaning of riabhach in Scots gaelic and Irish but a secondary meaning is grey or yellow-grey. Still on what is now Forrest Estate but really over the watershed and in the glen of Polmaddy lies the ruined farmstead of Darnaw. When I was a boy, this place was still roofed and in relatively good condition though already buried in Sitka plantation. Now it is a roofless shell. The place-name will be derived from Doire an Àtha, ‘wood of the ford or kiln’. It is perhaps referring to some crossing over the Polmaddy, giving access to Castlemaddy farmstead, Caisteal nam Madadh, ‘fortress of the (hunting) dogs’. The farm of Fore Bush, formerly Buss, Scots for ‘bush, thicket, clump of trees’ seems to have had its farmstead moved a few hundred metres north west compared to its position in 1853 when it was a single story thatched cottage occupied by one John McTurk. Continuing up the Burnhead Burn in the direction of Loch Dungeon, probably Loch Daingean ‘loch of the bulwark, fortification, stronghold’, referring to the colossal cliffs towering above the loch which form the western side of Milldown and Millfire. These hills are derived from am Meall Donn ‘the brown hill’ and Meall Fèoir, ‘grassy hill’ respectively. We next come to the ruins of the farm of Altiebeastie, situated in the middle of a Sitka clearfell area and beside the of Low Pennyturn’s field systems while High Pennyturn is situated across the road from that office. The place-name is puzzling but may represent peighinn nan dorn, ‘pennyland of the fist or fist sized stones’. Compare Dundurn, Loch Earn which WJ Watson (CPNS 488) gives as Dùn Dùirn. The Pennyturn place-names are situated on the edge of Drumgowan Wood which name is from Druim a’ Ghobhainn, ‘the ridge of the blacksmith’. However, in respect of Pennyturn, Alan James has pointed out to me that Sir Herbert Maxwell has, in his book Studies in the Topography of Galloway and repeated in his Place-Names of Galloway, a 'Pennytown' in Kells, without stating anything more than the name, and this may be the same place. Alan thinks that possibly Brittonic 'pen' is the generic term here. This means ‘a head’ but in place-names it may be ‘top, summit’ or ‘end’, perhaps especially the higher end of a long hill or ridge, or the elevated end of a hill-spur which might be seen in the contours of High Pennyturn. He suggests that Brittonic *penn-ï-durn ‘ridge-end of the fist or cobble’ or *penn-i-dron, tron' ridgeend of the throne', used in some Welsh place-names and possibly at Cardrona by Peebles, for stone circles might be in the background to this placename.The lack of early forms here does however make it difficult to say anything definitive about his intriguing place-name. For more on Brittonic place-name elements in the ‘Old North’ see Alan James’s comprehensive online resource hosted by the Scottish PlaceNames Society at https://spns.org.uk/ resources/bliton. Continuing downstream we reach the ruins of Largvey, Learg Bheithe, ‘hillside of birches’. From the aerial photography there are very clear remains of at least one farmstead and outbuildings as well as rig and furrow plough marks surviving. By the time of the first OS survey in 1853 Largvey was in ruins and the farm ground incorporated in Stranfasket, possibly Sron Fasgaidh, ‘promontory of shelter’. Woodhall is shown as still inhabited on the 1853 and 1888 OS maps just north of Stranfasket farm house. What is striking about this journey up and down the Forrest Glen is the sheer number of former farmsteads that line both sides of the valley. There must have been a substantial medieval subsistance farming community living there. No doubt their farms abandonment was part of the rather unsung (compared to he Highlands) Lowland Clearances. Michael Ansell, Cars Fèarna What is striking about this journey up and down the Forrest Glen is the sheer number of former farmsteads... Altiebeastie Burn. This place was a ruin in 1853. I would suggest that this is a burn-name in Allt na Bèiste, ‘burn of the beast, beast of prey, monster, wretch’. Bèist dhubh or bèist dhonn are names for the otter so the place-name might commemorate this animal. There are still traces of the old medieval field system at Altiebeastie visible on the aerial photography, despite forestry planting and harvesting operations, but a relatively new forest road cuts through the southern end of the old field dykes. Returning back down the glen, this time on the south bank of the Polharrow, Dukieston or Duckieston is now reached, the original farm (deserted by 1853) being in a different place from the house bearing the name today. This will be a Scots formation, probably a nickname plus Scots toun, ‘a farm’. Close by are High and Low Pennyturn, described as small hills rather than farms in the OS Name Books. However, there are signs of what looks like farmstead building ruins visible on aerial photography with extensive associated surrounding field systems so it could be that these were earlier farms long forgotten by the time of the first OS mapping. Natural Power’s Green House office complex sits on top Glenkens Gazette page 27 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN The Rogue at the Bogue We have probably all driven the A702 from Dalry to Moniaive without giving a thought to Bogue just at the junction to the Balmaclellan road. known for the promotion of literacy and the establishment of libraries. Alexander Trotter attested that sorners (spongers) and tramps from Ayrshire, like a flock of locusts every summer, were sure to receive shelter and food from the benevolent Barlay, though banned from every other residence. John G Bruce was born at Gordonstone, Dalry, in 1775, at that time ‘the site of a considerable village of crofters and cottars’. He married a daughter of William Wilson in Auchenleck of Minnigaff who was a lineal descendant of the family to which belonged Margaret Wilson, one of the Wigtown Martyrs. John Barbour’s fatherin-law did so much business in the Glenkens that he was made an honorary burgess of New Galloway in 1803. John started to publish in the 1820s. Toryism’. It was important to Barbour that history should portray the rational conduct of our ancestors, connected with the real scenery where they suffered, fought and fell. He then made his plea: ‘In an age in which servility and sycophancy have too much prevailed, let us lift the mirror of manliness from the dust of our forefathers’. This was too much for the At one time it was occupied by a great and the good. He enjoyed an writer named John Gordon Barbour impeccable Galloway pedigree in his (1775-1843) whose nom de plume was Barbour/Bruce connections and in his Cincinnatus Caledonius, which translates respect for the Covenanters, but he as curly-haired Scot. The original betrayed his class as a landowner with Cincinnatus was to become a kind of his radical ideas and his punishment patron saint of farmers. Historically he was to be unfairly ridiculed. Despite was so highly regarded that he was his interesting ideas on History and elected to the position of Consul in the Landscape - some folk wondered early Roman Republic. He was, if some places nurtured an it must be said, a legendary ‘historical atmosphere’, he figure, who seems to have was written off as an eccentric opposed the demands of the and, as sometimes happens, plebs, the common people who he accommodated his actions sought codification of the laws. to his imposed reputation. He He was already an old man used Threave as an example when he was called to deal with of his light and shadows the problem. He left his plough theme. The castle had been a and his farm (traditionally poor bastion of feudalism, and over but since he was an aristocrat powerful subjects, who annually presumably it was rich) winning demanded the lardners, annual over his opponents and then marts of 27 fat cows. When the returning to home to become old guard left, farmers could remembered as a great leader, kill their own cattle and tend and a proponent of the greater their own moors; heritable good praised for his civic jurisdictions were outlawed virtue, modesty and humility, and agricultural improvement Bogue Farm in 1868 from a sketch by James Trotter', like all farmers everywhere! took place. Light drove out the East Galloway Sketches 1901 Ever since, Cincinnatus has shadows. ‘Long flow the Dee, been whoever folk wanted him unpolluted with blood. Long His first book was Lights and Shadows to be but in reality, he was probably a grow the forests unskaithed by burning. of Scottish Character and Scenery wealthy estate owner who realised late A Lagg and a Claverhouse have here in which he introduced himself as in life that the common people actually been withstood. And may tyranny of having explored almost every corner of had rights of a kind. Cincinnati in the US all sorts be here firmly stemmed. And Scotland and most places in the south is, of course, named for him. while the towers of Threave yet mark of the country. ‘A Scotsman by birth--a John Gordon Barbour, Oor Ain what hath been, may the virtues of our Scotsman by nature--a Scotsman by Cincinnatus, allegedly had Roman ancestors give nerve to our souls’. Part education--he delights in every thing connections as well, because the Two of this item will appear in the next Caledonian’. His inspiration was the Barbours claimed to be descended Glenkens Gazette, when we will see how Covenanting experience; he had a warm from a soldier who served in Agricola’s some folk were also outraged by his feeling for those who both suffered and invasive army of Scotland in the first remarks about the Kirk. He was also a bled in defence of civil and religious century AD. John, however, boasted a poet. Meanwhile, let Barbour supply his liberty. Living in the very heart of a surname that was much more famous own benediction: country where hundreds and thousands in Galloway, because Archdeacon John suffered at the hands of Lagg, Turner Barbour was the first biographer of From the source of the Ken to the and Claverhouse. He conversed often Scotland’s famous King Robert Bruce. mouth of the Dee, with the descendants of the sufferers, There are many stories about Bruce’s becoming intimately acquainted with May corruption be stemm’d by the adventures in Galloway which John both the local habitations and their Gordon Barbour was proud to write sons of the free. names. He also claimed to collect oral about. Gilbert Barbour of Barskeoch traditions about the ‘Killing Times’. and Drumbuie in Kells seems to have That is why this article is entitled The However, not all were admiring of his lost his property during the wars of Rogue at the Bogue! Ted Cowan worthy efforts. He had to withhold some the covenant but it seems the family of the materials he collected because survived as crofters since they resurface Part 2 of this feature to follow in the ‘They were not steeped to the lips in August/September issue... in Barlay and Dalshangan. Barlay was Glenkens Gazette page 28 WINDY RIG WIND FARM PROGRESS UPDATE We are now halfway through our blade delivery programme. Advertisement This is the first time a specialist blade transporter is being used in the UK. This allows the blade to be lifted up to a 60 degree angle vertically and rotate 320 degrees to help negotiate the journey from the laydown area along the twisty sections of the B729 to the Windy Rig Site. Statkraft attended the recent Carsphairn Road Network Ward Meeting arranged by Councillor Pauline Drysdale. Statkraft were able to update the local community on progress with component deliveries, the C35 road repairs and timescales for the completion of the project. We appreciate that the delivery phase of the project has been difficult for residents on the B729 and C35, and Statkraft and all the contractors would like to thank them for their patience during this time. As a direct result of the meeting, we are improving how we communicate potential traffic disruption, including how we use the text messaging service to provide delivery updates. In late June, we expect component deliveries to be completed and residents will see a reduction in traffic volumes generally. Remedial works to restore the C35 to its pre-delivery condition will commence in July. These works are covered by a legal agreement and a bond has been lodged with Dumfries & Galloway Council. The works require approval by the Council after completion. A detailed works plan will be shared with residents along the C35 before commencement. On site, work will continue until late summer, with turbine installation expected to be completed in August. We are currently operating a text message service to alert residents to turbine delivery information and minimise potential disruption. Contact Doug Wilson if you would like to be added, doug.wilson@ statkraft.com or call 07542 754642. An elevated blade travelling along the B729 towards to site WINDY STANDARD WIND FARM COMMUNITY UPDATE Advertisement Hello - I am Miles McConville and I would like to introduce myself as the project manager for Windy Standard Wind Farm, located North East of Carsphairn. Fred. Olsen Renewables (FORL) has been involved in Windy Standard Wind Farm since the 1990s. It currently consists of 66 turbines and provides a substantial community benefit fund. Windy Standard 1, the first phase of the wind farm, is approaching the end of its operational life and we are exploring opportunities to repower the development. These plans would reduce the number of turbines on site and increase the amount of power generated. We are speaking to local residents about our plans and will be holding a virtual consultation in June which will be accessible at www. windystandardwindfarm.co.uk I would like to encourage everyone to get in touch should you have any questions - my email is communities@fredolsen.co.uk or you can phone me on 07435 763 900. Alternatively, visit www. fredolsenrenewables.com for further information. Glenkens Gazette page 29 Glenkens Gazette page 30 Photo of the Issue Sponsored by the Ken Bridge Hotel This issue’s winner is Kath Martin with her photograph of Highland pony, Cormack, gazing out over the River Ken. Kath wins an evening meal for two up to the value of £30 at the Ken Bridge Hotel. Competition judges Dave and Sue said: "This time the lovely photo of the Highland pony edges into the winning place as we feel he shows an admirable appreciation of the lovely Glenkens landscape." The Gazette would like to thank Dave and Sue for their support in sponsoring the Photo of the Issue competition over the years as this is the last issue they will be judging. The competition has been a great success, with many happy readers enjoying meals as a result of their generosity. From the August/September edition, The Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Co, based in Balmaclellan, will be be judging the competition and offering two portions of their delicious home-made macaroni cheese to the lucky winner - see the Business in the Spotlight section on p18. For anyone who has a winning voucher for a meal at the Ken Bridge from a previous issue, you are able to redeem vouchers up until May 2022. CURRENT FORESTRY PROPOSALS: DALRY Dalry Community Council would like to hear from people who have opinions or ideas about two forestry proposals that are being consulted on in the next few months. The first is at Duchrae, which is close to Lochinvar. This is a new version of a scheme that was turned down several years ago. The second is Mackilston, five miles north of Dalry and adjacent to the path along the Blackwater to Butterhole Bridge. Both proposals predominantly Sitka spruce schemes with a small percentage of native broadleaves and open land. If you have any thoughts at all, whether they are to do with access, biodiversity, species diversity, soils, habitats, water quality or land use change and cumulative impacts, please drop us a line at sjtdalrycc@ gmail.com or you can use the Dalry CC or Waterside Ways Facebook pages. Feel free to include positive thoughts and suggestions as well as objections as we’d like to gather as much information as possible. We have just moved to the area and have found the Gazette really useful in getting to know what is going on thank you! Lyndsay 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 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 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: Sam Rushton 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 Shirley McNaught on 07955 743 022 or drop by the charity shop on Main Street, Dalry Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact Ros Hill on ros.hill@rathanhouse.co.uk Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett on 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 on williamsoncarylann@gmail.com New Galloway Community Enterprises (NGCE): Contact Sam Rushton on 07741 656601 or ngce5000@gmail.com or pop into New Galloway Community Shop Balmaclellan Community Trust: Contact Julia Higgins on 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 Bright Stars - Glenkens Community Nursery: Contact glenkenscommunitynursery@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie on 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 - 6 Jun & 4 Jul. Carsphairn: 11am - 13 Jun & 11 Jul. Kells: 11am - 20 Jun & 18 Jul. Dalry: 11am - 27 Jun ^ 25 Jul. Communion will be celebrated in Carsphairn Church on 11 July. The local Church of Scotland congregations are however continuing to prepare weekly prayers and reflections that can be accessed on youtube under ‘Balmaclellan, Kells and Dalry linked with Carsphairn’. The services include hymns and songs and the whole service is accompanied by pictures of the Glenkens. David is also happy to send these directly to people by email if they contact him at DBartholomew@churchofscotland.org. uk - paper copies can also be provided to those who do not have internet access. Contact him at 01644 430 380 if you would like to receive these resources, or simply if you would like to have a chat. SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: Communal worship at St Margaret's Church New Galloway has now resumed with the Eucharist on Sundays at 10.30am, followed by coffees/teas (with current guidelines in place). Visitors are always welcome - for further information including directions, please see our website www.stmargaretsnewgalloway.org or call 01644 420 259. 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 32 Growing the Local Food Economy The Glenkens Community Action Plan identified growing the local food economy as a key action. Local company Propagate has been tasked with taking forward a scoping study, looking at local food needs in the Glenkens. We have two surveys open for local people to respond to that will help us build up a picture of: • What locally produced food do people already buy, and how do they buy it? • What locally produced food would people like to be able to buy, and how would they like to buy it? • What stops people from buying locally produced food? • Who is currently producing food locally, and who would like to be a local producer? For the purposes of this survey, by 'locally produced food' we mean food that has been grown, raised or made within 25 miles. The results from this work will be used to identify what is missing locally and what the biggest needs are, along with the potential, aspirations, barriers. We will work with local producers, landowners, community organisations and the council to find solutions to these needs. Veg growing locally at Hidden Veg on the Hidden Road, Balmaclellan. We would like to invite all local people across the Glenkens to complete this online survey which can be found at www. propagate.org.uk/food-systems Hard copies will also be available along with drop-off boxes at key points in our communities, and you will also find our team out and about at local events and locations over the coming months. If you 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 would like to speak to someone about this directly, contact details are included below. All types of food producers and aspiring food producers - farmers, market gardeners, bakers and makers – are invited to complete this survey which can be found at www.propagate.org.uk/foodsystems. You are welcome to complete this whether you informally sell jam at the gate or make a living selling sheep at the market! Please get in touch with us to speak to a member of the team directly if you would like a hard copy of the survey. We will also be contacting local shops, cafes and people involved with food supply chains to understand the aspirations and barriers around using local produce in menus, or stocking it on the shelves. This work will take place between June and August 2021. We will present the results back to the community during an event as part of this year's Glenkens Food Month. If you would like to get in touch, please email hello@propagate.org.uk or phone 07340 531 506. Abi Mordin Design & co-ordination: sarah.ade@gmail.com AUG/SEPT 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/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 124 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_124 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 https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/272/GlenkensGazette125.pdf 761314d519f1edeca00897a0efe10996 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 125 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 2021 ISSUE 125 FREE A CONCERT ON THE LOCH Have you ever enjoyed a musical performance while afloat? was a first for the region, with the audience taking to the water in a selection of craft to appreciate the bankside performance. Aidan Nicol of Glenkens Community & Arts Trust said: "From the vantage point of the stage we could watch the multi-coloured boats paddling in for the start of the performance from across the loch - one of our sound technicians commented that this was the most remarkable event they'd ever seen come together - and in that Most probably neither had the moment I'd have to agree; it felt very majority of the audience at a unique special to be a part of." event held in the Glenkens this June. The performance was thoroughly Through a enjoyed by the collaboration of waterbound local groups, audience. a water-based One of the concert was held visitors to the on Loch Ken, event, Connie with the novel McQuaker, said: experience of "The event a boat-bound was amazing. audience. It was such a The Galloway fantastically Agreement’s unique way to string quintet be reintroduced performed from to live music the shores of after such a Loch Ken to a long lockdown. sold-out crowd I've never heard based at the of any event Galloway Activity similar to it - a Centre. really innovative, The audience at the On the Water event were able to enjoy a tranquil The On the excellent idea!" evening of traditional music from the comfort of their own boat Water event (photograph courtesy of the Galloway Glens Scheme). Connecting Glenkens Communities How do you get your local information? Is it in the local shop? Or perhaps you have a great source of information in a switched-on neighbour or friend whom you chat to regularly. Do you read the Galloway News? Scroll through Facebook? Do you often only hear about a local event after it’s happened? Have you spotted a great communication tool elsewhere that could work here in the Glenkens? We would love to hear about how you get your local information on what’s going on in the area, and how you feel communication could be improved. Continued on p2... Read our special Gazette report, A Roof Over Your Head, Head, on pages 15 to 18... A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 Support Our Glenkens Communications Survey Continued from front page... The Glenkens & District Trust (GDT) Community Action Plan (CAP), created through feedback from our Glenkens communities, highlighted some key areas within our communities where improvement could be made. One of these areas was improved communication across the communities of the Glenkens and wider district. GDT recently awarded funds to the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) to do some research into how people in our communities feel communication channels could be improved, seeking to invest in an effective communication tool for the whole community. As part of this process a short survey is being circulated, both in paper format and online. You can find a copy of this survey in this edition of the Glenkens Gazette, or online on the Gazette Facebook page or online on our FaceBook page or at bit.ly/ glenkens. Paper copies can be returned to a local drop-off point (most likely where you got your copy of the Gazette from), or you can photograph/scan the completed survey and attach it to an email to gill@catstrand.com Have your say - be involved in influencing the future direction of community communication in the Glenkens – your feedback is vital. We’d love to hear from as wide a range of people across the community as possible so please also encourage your friends and family in and around the Glenkens to take a few minutes to complete the survey. We look forward to hearing from you! The Gazette Team This photograph of Mrs Zoe Harvey from Corsock, reading the latest issue of the Gazette, was submitted by Rosalie Edington. Your chance to have a say on community communications... Rosalie said: "Mrs Harvey loves it when I take her the new edition of the Gazette! Is she the oldest reader at 97?" We're not sure, but we think she could be - let us know if you know of an older reader! Carsphairn Air Crash Remembered On 7 July 1951 at 11.10am a plane fell out of the sky and crashed near Brockloch Tower, two miles north of Carsphairn. The aircraft was a US Air Force tanker version of the B-29 Superfortress bomber and all eleven crew were lost. Scott and Noel Marion Poppoff. Seventy years later and, at the exact time of the accident, a member of the Scottish Military Research Group left a symbol of remembrance at the plaque which marks the site of the crash. Pictured below is the memorial plaque which is set into the dyke alongside the A713 road just north of Carsphairn. The plaque remembers: John B Simpson, Joseph Aloysius O'leary, George Jacques Hayden, Reginald Y Russell, John R Finnegan, Jack Wilfred Kern, George Merril Foote, Tennant Appleton Metz, Henry H Hill, Wallace L 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 3 Crossmichael Heritage Project Crossmichael Heritage Project, located at the Old Hearse Hoose, has opened its doors to visitors. The renovation of the building was recently completed and features a fascinating wall-mounted timeline showing what happened in the parish from 10,000 BC to the present, and also what was happening in the wider world at a similar time. There is the added interest of a historic map showing the many ancient features in the parish with background detail. In the historic old churchyard we have created a graveyard tour showing a diverse range of gravestones such as JM Barrie’s Captain Hook, a 17th century covenanter martyr, two brothers drowned in the River Dee and even a Crossmichael soldier who died at Balaclava in the famous ‘charge of the Light Brigade’ - into the valley of death rode the 600! There are many other gravestones with curious and interesting stories attached. Do come and visit; you will be amazed The Crossmichael Heritage Project, situated next to the church yard at the Old Hearse Hoose on the A713 road which runs through Crossmichael, opens to visitors. at the amount of history in our little parish. The main part of the Heritage Centre display, housed in the church hall, is still closed because of COVID regulations, but we hope to be able to open it soon. John Nelson, Crossmichael Heritage & Living History Project Scottish Alternative Games 2022 Little did we realise when the Games were cancelled in 2020 that the situation in 2021 would mean that they unfortunately couldn’t be held yet again! The ongoing requirements have made it impossible to hold the event in anything like its usual form and therefore the decision was made to cancel this year's Games. Instead, we will look forward to finally celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Games in New Galloway on 7 August 2022. Next year will also mark the 45th anniversary of the first ever Alternative Games in Parton, where they began. The pandemic has been a very difficult time for everyone and we were hoping that restrictions would be lifted in time to allow the Alternative Games to take place and give us all something to look forward to and enjoy. However, even now in Tier Zero, the continuing restrictions and requirements would mean that many of the events on the day couldn’t take place or would need to be adapted to meet sanitising and distancing rules. The success and popularity of the Games has been built on the friendly atmosphere of a good old fashioned family day out and the unique events that everyone can participate in. We didn't want this to be lost by imposing restrictions to limit numbers, changing rules, etc. But we will make up for it in 2022 - fingers crossed - and celebrate the return of the Scottish Alternative Games in style. So please put Sunday 7 August 2022 in your diary now! Brian Edgar The Men's final of the Gird 'n' Cleek race a decade ago, in August 2011 Glenkens Gazette page 4 Lockdown has been a terrible time for everyone but, as we begin to ease restrictions, things are starting to look much brighter. Here at the Smiddy in Balmaclellan, Tai-Chi has One of the young cyclists on the family bike ride, Molly Pugh, at the end of the journey. resumed, fitness classes have blossomed on Zoom, Chris J was recognised in BT’s Unbreakable Awards for the weekly Lockdown Quiz, and we’re trialling We joined Chris, and another family, on the community family bike ride on 'hybrid yoga' (half on Zoom and half Saturday 29 May. face-to-face in the Smiddy), socially We met up at the CatStrand and headed off to Balmaclellan, then down the distanced of course! back road to Dalry where we had a quick break. It was nice to see everything The occasional bouts of good weather on a bike instead of in a car. We then took a right down a track that went all the have allowed the photography group way downhill which was really fun to ride on because you could go really fast. to get out-and-about, Shedders have We ended up behind the old Milton Park Hotel and from there we crossed the been utilising the Men’s Shed’s facilities bridge and went left and cycled down the back road to New Galloway. for solo projects (the Shed remains We stopped for a quick photo and managed to spot Balmaclellan in the closed for group sessions just now), distance. Apparently this stretch of road is where a buzzard used to always adult dance has returned to CatStrand, appear and tried to attack people when they were riding their bikes. our Winter Wellbeing challenge was a Then we finally arrived back at the CatStrand and had a nice lunch with the huge success and the Family Friendly other adult cyclists who did the longer 13-mile ride on e-bikes. It turns out we Bike Ride went down a storm - included did 10 miles, not six miles as Chris had said! is an account by one of our youngest Thanks, Chris, for a nice morning out, Molly attendees (also see article on back page). Chris Jowsey Dalry Craft Fair On Sunday 29 August, Dalry Town Hall will be hosting an Arts, Antiques & Artisan Craft Fair from 11am until 3pm. There will be a group of independent dealers, contemporary designers, artists and crafters - all under one roof. They will be showcasing a diverse range of work which will give you a chance to purchase unique "not on the High Street” items from some of the most talented and creative individuals in Dumfries & Galloway and the south of Scotland. A list of potential exhibitors will be posted at www. dalrytownhall.co.uk and on Facebook @DalryDG7Town Hall The fair will also be offering delicious home-baked cakes, teas and coffees from the Pop-up Café either as a takeaway service or with outside seating and tables under the cover of the gazebos. If the weather is kind we will also have picnic tables for extra seating. The monthly Pop-up Cafés are staffed by volunteers and the fair is also organised by volunteers. We hope you will feel able to come along and enjoy the whole event and be tempted by the beautiful items on offer. Entrance to the craft fair will be £1 per adult (over 16). Glenkens Gazette page 5 DAYS OUT FROM THE GLENKENS Visitors to the Glenkens sometimes find themselves looking for something interesting to do, especially if the weather is not quite as planned. Whether you have children or grandparents to entertain, hopefully there is something here for you. I have assumed two things; firstly, that you have a car and enjoy (or don’t mind) driving and, secondly, that you can look up online or ask for more details on any of these suggestions, so it is just a list. 6) Gardens: Castle Kennedy Gardens, Glenwhan Gardens, Logan Botanic Gardens 7) Hill Walks: For fit and experienced walkers only (make sure to bring a map and compass); Forrest Estate to Corserine, Meikle Millyea and Carlins Cairn, Cairnsmore of Fleet 8) Easy Hill Walk: From Dalry Town Hall, follow the Southern Upland Way signs to the river, then cross beside Earlston hydro power station (a listed building) and up Waterside Hill (see article on p10) 9) Wanlockhead: Lead mining 1) Galloway Forest Park: Murray's monument, deer and feral goat parks, Clatteringshaws loch and visitor centre 5) Portpatrick: Choose (or avoid) lifeboat day, local walks, Mull of Galloway experience 13) Loch Doon: The castle that moved, osprey nest, picnic sites beside the loch 14) Dark Sky Park: On a clear night, see the milky way from almost anywhere out of town (best on a moonless night in spring or autumn) - a favourite spot is Clatteringshaws 15) Local Museums: Dalbeattie, Stewartry Museum in Kirkcudbright, Newton Stewart, Stranraer, Dumfries, the Devils Porridge Museum near Annan. 17) Kirkcudbright: Art galleries, art centre, Broughton House, walk around St Mary’s Isle 2) Off the Beaten Track: Raiders road, Stroan Viaduct, Otter Pool and Clatteringshaws 4) The Machars: From New Galloway take the Queens Way past Newton Stewart to Wigtown (also the region's Book Town), Bladnoch Distillery, Garlieston, Whithorn, Isle of Whithorn (there's a lovely walk around headland), St Ninian’s cave, Port William. This may need to be two trips if you want to do it all! 12) Coast Drive: From Ayr to Stranraer, Ayr town and beach, Burns Cottage in Alloway, Dunure harbour, Culzean Castle, Lendalfoot (you might see seals near the Varyag memorial) 16) Rocks and Geology: Apart from Wanlockhead there is the Gem Museum in Creetown and the Gem Shop in Castle Douglas Here are a few of my favourite day (or half-day) trips out within reach of the Glenkens. 3) Scenic Drive: New Galloway to Lauriston, then turn right and follow the single-track road to Gatehouse of Fleet (with a visit to the Mill on the Fleet for lunch perhaps) and a short ferry to Cumbrae Spike the deer at the Red Deer Range (listing 1 - Galloway Forest Park) museum, preserved miners’ cottages, gold panning, narrow gauge railway, fossicking on spoil heaps, wild camping in Mennock Pass 10) Safe Sandy Beach: Sandyhills (beware of fast-moving tides if you walk along the coast), drag a magnet through sand and ‘catch’ magnetite, see old salt pans – there is cheap beachside parking 11) Largs: Nardini ice cream in art deco building, a variety of restaurants 18) Entertaining Children: Mabie Farm Park, Cream o’ Galloway, Heads of Ayr Farm Park, Galloway Activity Centre (also a recommendation for adults) 19) Historic Sites: Sweetheart Abbey, Waterloo Monument, Lincluden Collegiate Church 20) Staying Local: Red kite feeding station near Lauriston, 16th century ruined village of Polmaddy just north of Dalry, Holy Linn waterfall (signposted from the Dalry to Moniaive road) To find more things to do in the area just search ‘Dumfries and Galloway days out’ on an internet search engine it's surprising how much there is to see and do! Paul CatStrand Youth Players Return Having been inactive since the first lockdown was imposed in March last year, the longawaited return of the CatStrand Youth Players is almost upon us. Provided everything continues to go well with the easing of restrictions, we plan to start meeting again on Sunday 5 September at 2pm in CatStrand. All former members are welcome, together with anyone who would like to join as a new member - you can join if you are aged 10 to 18. The first production we will be working on will be the Christmas panto. Please look out for updates on the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust website www.gcat.scot and CatStrand Facebook page. Honey (Ruby Harfield) and Trudy (Hope Rowley) with Camilla the Camel in 2020. Glenkens Gazette page 6 Help Shape the Future of the Glenkens & District Trust Glenkens & District Trust (GDT) is taking the next step in its development and looking for three additional people to join its active group of trustees. As you may already know, GDT is a charitable body which resources and enables community development in the Glenkens and surrounding areas by distributing wind farm community benefit funds. Currently we make awards from the Blackcraig Wind Farm Community Fund and we have also been actively involved stimulating the development of a Glenkens & District Community Action Plan. So far this year GDT has made 18 awards worth a total of £151,000 to a wide range of different organisations. New trustees don’t need any specialist skills or experience - training and ongoing support will be provided to any new trustee upon joining – but a love of the area and a commitment to the value of local community-led activity in all its shapes and sizes is absolutely crucial. Young people are particularly encouraged to apply and the GDT chair, Fiona Smith, is very happy to have an informal chat with people who are interested. It’s a great time to get involved in shaping the future of the trust – not only do we currently make decisions on the Blackcraig Wind Farm Community Fund but we are helping drive a coordinated approach to community benefit across the Glenkens and district area, which we hope will result in the most impact and the best outcomes for our communities - an approach which is vital as we look ahead to the significant number of potential developments in our area. Trustees play an absolutely crucial role in ensuring that local people GDT Trustees meeting over Zoom shape and direct the work of the trust and also in ensuring that the fund strategy, which underpins how money is awarded, reflects the needs of the wider community. The GDT Board is made up of trustees appointed by local community councils and up to five independent trustees. Our recent governance review led to the creation of these independent Trustee roles which, along with the establishment of our new associate membership arrangements, are all part of positive developments to strengthen our accountability to the communities we serve. So it’s a great time to get involved! Trustees meet on a bi-monthly basis – full details of the commitment, including a full role description and additional information for applicants, is available by contacting the trust on info@glenkenstrust.org.uk and can also be found on our Facebook page @ glenkenstrust. Application is by letter and the closing date for applicants is 31 August 2021. To contact GDT chair Fiona for an informal discussion email fiona.smith1@ btinternet.com or call 07789 903 127. Fiona Smith, chair, GDT - 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 - 7th August & 11th September * note the August market is on the 1st Saturday 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 7 Hopes for a Local Food Network Last summer, the Glenkens and District Community Action Plan showed an appetite in the community for "a plan for collaborative production and distribution of local produce”. Local company Propagate has begun work on this by launching two surveys - one for consumers and one for producers - to find out what people are looking for. The pandemic has demonstrated the importance of producing our food locally, highlighting that our current global supply system is vulnerable to all kind of shocks. When we asked people where they currently buy their local food, several respondents did not know of anywhere they could access locally produced food. Some pointed to the Dalry Producer's Market and Food Hub as a great step forward. Issues of distance, cost and availability were all identified as barriers to access. One person said: "I'd like to be able to buy local food without having a 20mile round trip to reach Dalry. I'd like to walk or cycle to my local village of Carsphairn." Locally produced food is often much more expensive than food sourced globally. One respondent stated: "I do buy [some local food] – I would buy more if I had a higher income". simply don't know what is out there. The few people who already have access to lots of local produce were usually those who already have the land and/or knowledge to produce it themselves. Even in this instance however there's a desire for specialist goods that could be produced locally – local oats and barley, hemp for food and fibre, and mushrooms were suggested, or more locally produced store-cupboard foods. Whilst many people wanted to see more availability of locally produced meat, game and fish, a high number of those surveyed identified a lack of freshly grown local vegetables, asking for “more focus on veg and fruit production, less on meat”. What Can be done? When we asked what changes the public would like to see to improve the situation, we got many insightful replies about what a better system could look like. Some thoughts were: “Could there be better links between producers and local shops that could allow you to order online with the producer and collect at the shop? Could producers work more closely to do meal boxes to make cooking/shopping easier?” Several respondents identified access to land for small producers, and establishing community ownership, as crucial Supported Agriculture scheme, new market gardens and potentially a big indoor growing space for producing more exotic crops. Conversations About Food Later in August we will hold informal gatherings in local venues where you can come along and have a chat with us about local food, building on what you've told us in the survey. We're going to keep these small and we'll make some tasty food to share. We're planning to hold these conversations in mid-August, on Tuesday 10, Thursday 19 and Saturday 21 at venues throughout the Glenkens. If you would like to come along please keep an eye out for the event listed online, or get in touch with us to find out venues. Or if you've filled in our survey and said you'd like to be involved, we'll be in touch! “...better links between producers and local shops that could allow you to order online with the producer and collect at the shop? Could producers work more closely to do meal boxes to make cooking/ shopping easier?” We'd love to talk more about this in the conversations we are going to hold in August – could we build a fairer place to live, where everyone can access nutritious, locally grown produce? Often it's hard to know whether produce we're buying is local or not. Several respondents said they'd like to see labelling on produce, as well as notices in shop windows stating they sell local produce. One person asked for “better marketing to know that we are getting genuinely local food”. Some people stated that they find it hard to source produce that is both local and organic – or that they areas to work on. On the Producer Side... Local producers and aspiring producers have also been responding to a call for input and participation into the survey. Challenges and opportunities are starting to emerge as more people get involved and tell us what they think. There is a clear call for more cooperation amongst producers through joined up supply chains, shared resources and education around buying local. Several ideas have been put forward to increase the supply of locally produced fruit and vegetables – for example, establishing a Community Glenkens Food Month – the Results of Our Scoping Project Our findings from this project will be presented in September during the Glenkens Food Month. The ideas we've seen in the responses to the surveys will be explored further through focus groups and discussions. Combining the voices of producers, aspiring producers and local communities, we will start to generate concrete ideas that can be taken forward that support and encourage increased access to local food for everyone. If you want to get involved or would like more information, please contact Beth on beth@propagate.org.uk or 0797 237 9684. Beth Coleman Glenkens Gazette page 8 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 9 Green Well of Scotland Exhibition The Green Well of Scotland, situated outside Carsphairn, is showcasing an exhibition of local portraits illustrating a rural hill community emerging from the pandemic. The exhibition will run until September, and has images located both at the well and at the Carsphairn Heritage Centre. Green Well is a historic beauty spot steeped in folklore just over the border from East Ayrshire into Dumfries & Galloway. The photographs are designed to capture the local community as they emerge from the unprecedented experience of a national lockdown. The project has been produced by Knockengorroch Community Interest Company and supported by Dumfries & Galloway Regional Arts Fund and EventScotland through Scotland’s Events Recovery Fund. Ben Ade, an engineer from Carsphairn, is one of those pictured. He said: “It feels like quite a pivotal point in the Members of Carsphairn community at the Green Well Exhibition launch event history of Carsphairn, emerging from such a large scale pandemic and also with the area already suffering heavily from depopulation of younger generations. “It will be interesting for future folk to look back on heritage pictures like these and see what sort of characters lived around Carsphairn in 2021. “The local environment has been extremely important to us during lockdown, I wouldn’t want to be locked down anywhere else.” The Green Well of Scotland sits just off the A713, by a popular walker’s route, next to the River Deugh at the foot of Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. It is a 30-foot diameter pool with a wealth Below is a response to the letter included in the last edition of the Gazette regarding the article titled Archaeology Meets Poetry on the Raiders Road in the April/May issue. Hi Sandy, It's Claire from Can You Dig It here, hope you're doing well. Yes, you're right, the article does read like they were evicted - which I didn't pick up on, sorry! You are very correct that there is no evidence for that and it's not what I think happened, they likely moved on for their own reasons. In the full data structure report, I talked more about the wider landscape of improvements playing a part in its abandonment (in its use as a house rather than its abandonment by a specific family) and the move towards smaller farms being amalgamated into larger sheep farms as mentioned in the Statistical Accounts. This could have played a part in Upper Gairloch later being amalgamated with the neighbouring lands by the time of the later advertisements. I like the point you make on the lack of arable land putting people off buying the land after it had been made into a larger sheep farm - the selling of the ground to farmers based elsewhere then meaning that no one had to move into the farmsteads as homes anymore. I missed a trick there so thank you! I feel the longer discussion didn't come across correctly in the shortened article which was included in the Gazette - while I didn't write it, I did read over it before it went out so I should have spotted how it would come across to fresh eyes. I'm very grateful that you wrote in when you got in touch and pointed this out. Best wishes, Claire of cultural and historical significance. Dr Peter Hewitt, of Dumfries & Galloway Museums, said: “There are few wells that can boast a richer folklore than the Green Well of Scotland. Tucked away in a northern part of Galloway, the well is seemingly ageless and bottomless. Here you will find healing lore, devil lore, stories of witches and avian guardians, lairds, Covenanters and a fugitive ‘alchemist’. Above all the Green Well is a place of beauty, a place where the region's cultural memory is stored like a battery.” For more information, visit www. knockengorroch.org.uk/green-well-ofscotland-exhibition OUR HERITAGE SMALL GRANTS SCHEME OPEN The latest round of Galloway Glens funding through the Our Heritage Small Grants Scheme is now underway. The Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership have so far awarded approximately £75,000 of the £100,000 budget for this scheme, leaving £25,000 still to be awarded. The deadline for applications is 15 September - for full details on what type of projects can be applied for, a list of awards to date, or to kick-off an application, please visit the Small Grants page at www.gallowayglens.org Glenkens Gazette page 10 Youth Spaces Summer Fun Since starting as Youth Arts Coordinator at CatStrand in late May it has been a pleasure to get to know members of the community and learn more about the many wonderful things that happen in the area. We’ve been working on the Youth Spaces project which came about as a result of the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan identifying a need for a space within the Glenkens for young people to call their own. Our youth volunteers helped plan the first of our Youth Spaces settings at New Galloway Town Hall and we have been delivering these sessions with much success. So far we have bowled with melons, done indoor and outdoor sports, had a quiz night, a movie night, and will be enjoying laser tag and a disco over the next couple of weeks. The sessions are on Mondays (last one Monday 2 August) from 5.30pm to 8pm at New Galloway Town Hall, and sessions are for age 11+. The Youth Arts Summer Programme is now also underway. On 20 July we did a Dirt Edits trip to Glentress to spend the day mountain biking on the trails. The young people worked with professional mountain biking and film making instructors on the day, then worked with Faye McKellar and Aidan Nicol to edit their Bowling with melons at Youth Spaces footage and make their in New Galloway Town Hall own films at CatStrand the – perhaps you have a favourite group following day. that you would love to go to again, We have a wide range of activities or an idea for something new? Get in on offer this year – from making touch if so! your own art materials to dance to Thank you all for your warm Minecraft to puppet performance. welcome and I look forward to There will also be a family kite meeting more of you and your young making workshop at Dalry Town Hall people. with a picnic and kite flying session up the Mulloch on 4 August, and a For more info visit www.gcat.scot or Ceilidh Club for under 25s at the check out Facebook and Instagram @ Smiddy in Balmaclellan on Sunday 25 catstrandyoutharts, or email lucy@ July and Sunday 1 August. catstrand.com I’m keen to find out what you’d like Lucy Smith, to see and do in the coming months Youth Arts Coordinator, CatStrand WALKING UP WATERSIDE HILL Our walk starts in Saint John’s Town of Dalry at the Clachan Inn. For much of our route we will follow the well signed Southern Upland Way (SUW) so we set off down the unpromising track beside the Town Hall. The mound on the right is Dalry Motte, the site of a 12th century castle, and after barely a hundred yards a rural vista opens up. Shortly we cross the River Ken over a suspension bridge known locally as Boat Weil after an old ferry crossing or simply as the ‘wobbly bridge’ by the youngsters in the village who sometimes skim stones below. We keep an eye out for otters in the river – they are seen here from time to time, but not today. Turning right we follow the river upstream, watching a field of sheep and their lambs on our left, eventually reaching a minor road which we cross. We follow the SUW signs to a footpath, past a moss-covered dry-stone wall (known locally as a dyke) on the left and the fish ladder of Earlstoun hydroelectric power station on the right; we soon reach a gate to the hill proper. Now the climb begins - this is Waterside Hill. We have wisely chosen to take this walk in late spring before the bracken is full grown and we weave our way steadily uphill, no longer following the signed route but choosing firm ground, sheep tracks and rocky outcrops. We can just make out the course of a medieval drove road to the right and Stonechats seem to call their approval while a pair of Red Kites wheel overhead. I pick up a small pebble and will add this to the cairn at the summit. We pause just before the top to look at some unusual low growing plants – sundews; they make View of Dalry from Waterside Hill their living by catching and digesting insects. At the top we drink from our waterbottles as we soak up the amazing views all around. We are only a little over five hundred feet high but we can see Earlstoun Loch and distant Cairnsmore of Carsphairn to the North, mighty Corserine to the North-West, Loch Ken and Screel Hill away to the South. The only sound is that of the skylarks high overhead. Looking back the way we came, Dalry now seems like a model village with smoke rising from the odd chimney and tiny cars and trucks moving silently along its roads. We could make this a circular route but we enjoyed the sights so much that we choose to return the way we came to see it all again from a different angle. On the descent we pass a gnarled hawthorn bush that we didn’t notice in our eagerness to get to the top. It is one of very few shrubs on the hill and it is covered in blossom like a bridal gown. Refreshments await at the village pub. Walk duration - can be done in an hour but you will probably want to take two. Paul Goodwin Glenkens Gazette GLENKENS MUSINGS When I submitted my last article on the subject of mental health, I was a little concerned about how well it was going to be received and welcomed. The reason behind that was I know people sometimes don’t appreciate information like that or they find it too uncomfortable a topic. However, I shouldn’t have worried at all because so many people from all walks of life came to me and revealed how much they enjoyed reading it and how they were glad that I was brave enough to actually write it. It honestly meant so much to me that people thought I had written something that could help, so I’m incredibly thankful to everyone who liked it. So, I was inspired again to touch more on the topic so I could maybe open more people’s eyes to how vital it is to talk about it. When people think of poor mental health, the first thing that comes to mind is depression. But it’s far more Do you fancy a new hobby that is low cost, varied, fun, low commitment (we appreciate your school/ college/work pressures) and gives you a safe space to relax and be yourself ? 1st Stewartry Rangers (Girl Guides aged 14-18), have just been relaunched and need more recruits. complicated than that. Depression can be an aspect of it, but only when life gets too much for people to cope with. I can guarantee that every single person on this planet will suffer through something at some point that to them could feel like the end of the world. That could be losing a loved one or getting too stressed about work, school or absolutely anything. There is so much science and history behind it too. If you’re like me and can often dwell on the past, present and future it can make it harder for yourself to move on from dark times. But honestly - and I’m not going to lie - I don’t think we ever truly move on. We can try all we like to forget about things but at the end of the day, we will all keep circling back because whatever it is had such a strong effect on us. And if you feel like you keep referring back to these dark moments quite frequently, then maybe it's time to look for some support and advice. Like I’ve said before, there is nothing worse living through miserable times by yourself. I wish mental health was talked about more openly in the world and I wish people could just face the fact that having issues with mental health does not make you a failure. We are offering amazing opportunities across the Stewartry, welcoming girls aged 14 to 18 who have not been in Guiding before as well as previous members of Guiding (exRainbows, Brownies and Guides). Rangers is very different from the younger Girl Guiding groups, but as with all Girl Guiding we offer a safe space to have fun and meet new friends. Rangers do amazing things - you can learn new skills, take action for things you believe in, be creative, travel, complete the Duke of Edinburgh award programme and much more. We respond to our members and take a youth-led approach, listening to what you want and helping you make it work. We have plans to take a trip to IKEA - to have page 11 But I can understand that maybe the older generation don’t care to discuss it and don’t really want to learn about it, because probably when they were younger it was never talked about and it was a sin if you did. But I’m hoping now, due to advances in technology and education, that it could one day be a thing that is talked about with ease and was part of the school curriculum. Because if we don’t do anything, more and more people are going to fall into a pit of despair that possibly they can never get out of. So please, talk to friends and family, seek advice if you need it, don’t do it alone. Life was never going to be easy, but I never thought it was going to be this hard… James Wallace fun, enjoy a Swedish lunch and learn about making self-assembly flat pack furniture (promoting future independent living). We are looking into organising a holiday to Lorne House in Northern Ireland where we can go kayaking, wild swimming, take a trip to the Titanic museum, go canyoning/gorge walking, take a trip to the theatre, etc. We plan to fundraise to keep costs down for this. We are currently holding local taster sessions, so please spread the word and encourage girls aged 14-18 (or are approaching 14) to get in touch and take advantage of the excellent opportunities offered by the 1st Stewartry Rangers. To find out more, contact Jan Crooks on 07708 797 423 or Judy Lane on 07966 706 106, or visit www.girlguiding. org.uk Jan Crooks & Judy Lane Glenkens Gazette page 12 Revisiting Detective Classics: Simenon Inspector Maigret books can often appear rather slow-paced for people today. However, when time hangs rather heavily in an afternoon or evening, they may well be just the thing. Simenon, a Belgian author, was a truly prolific writer of detective fiction, mostly with a flavour of a France that has largely disappeared. He is one of the greatest writers of the twentieth century and, despite the slow pace, many of his crime novels are strangely compelling. There cannot be many people that have read all of the books written between 1931 and 1972. In his early career he was reputed by his publisher to produce a novel per month. My favourites, of those I have read, are Maigret’s Revolver, Lock 14, Maigret in Montmatre and Maigret’s First Case. Maigret is a police inspector in Paris but is often called away to other regions. books available of many of the titles, with a running time of around three to four hours. Bruce Smith Many of the novels have been adapted repeatedly for radio and television - Rupert Davies, Michael Gambon and Rowan Atkinson have each portrayed him brilliantly. NOW ONLINE! The Bruno Cremer series will allow people to listen in French, and there are also audio 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 As we head into the middle of the summer we're looking forward to a variety of outdoor and indoor events and film screenings at CatStrand and around the Glenkens. If you missed our live concerts from Zoe Bestel and The Bookshop Band in June and July, you can enjoy these concerts from home on our CatStrand at Home virtual events platform. Professionally recorded on the night of the live shows, it's almost as good as being there! The Village and the Road is a performance featuring music and words from Tom Pow and The Galloway Agreement - presented live at CatStrand on Sunday 29 August. With support from Arts Live it explores 'the great thinning' - the pattern of people taking the road out of their villages - a subject close to home in the Glenkens. We'll be trialling out reintroduction of raked seating for this event, but will be maintaining distancing between group bookings. A visual art installation from Annanbased artist Katie Anderson, Sound Horn, is popping up in Barwhillanty Estate's woodland during the last week in August. Wander around the sculptures as they emit sound and interact with one another and the landscape. Part funded by Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership, this installation is another of our Loch Ken Trust partner events, opening up areas around the loch for you to explore. The beautiful Barwhillanty Estate made the perfect setting for the sculptural installation which will be open from 11-3pm daily from 24 to 28 August - booking for this event is essential. The Saturday offers yoga and pizza in the gardens too as part of the estate's wellbeing day - see booking details online. The horns will play soundscapes including those captured and created here in the Glenkens by artist Katie J Anderson, Lucy Smith and Sarah Jane Scouten. Townsend Theatre's Talking Horse pop-up venue - created from a horsebox - is visiting the Glenkens, presenting the Ragged Trousered Philanthropists in Crossmichael on 3 September and in New Galloway on 4 September. Producer Louise and writer/ director Neil will be joining us for an artists' lunch at CatStrand on Saturday 4 September to chat about the process of making the show and developing work for rural touring and the West End stage. We're back in New Galloway park with a The Dalry Eco Flower Group are a small but enthusiastic group with plenty of fun and friendship thrown in. to recycle - so if you have anything that you think we could use as a planter, please get in touch. We recently added two wheelbarrow planters, both of which were kindly donated. The Throughgate wheelbarrow has a variety of herbs please help yourselves. If you do have spare herb plants in your garden, we would love to have them as this will help us make a few more herb planters throughout the village. We have four dedicated members of our Eco Flower Group - Fiona Davidson, Jane Trueman, Linda Carter and Angie Bradford. Together we source funding, plan, purchase pots and plants, water and feed. If you have a wish to join us, even just now and again, to help Sound Horns day of music in September as part of the Glenkens Food Month - the afternoon line-up rounds up with a concert of Detroit, Chicago and electric style blues from local favourites the Wave Blues Band. Tickets are free but booking is still important so we can get you seated in your booking bubbles - picnic blankets are provided but you may wish to bring a chair! Films coming up include Our Midnight, a black and white ode to lost souls and chance encounters from South Korean director Lim Jung-eun. Selected by our youth film programming intern Thomas who has been looking for films that offer 'connection', this intriguing film premiered at the Glasgow Film Festival this year. If you love the early films of Jim Jarmusch or the endless possibilities of a night with Richard Linklater then Our Midnight is for you. Dalry Film Club screen Bellbird on 25 August, a New Zealand drama set around a family-run dairy farm - told with great heart and warm humour, this film shines a light on the plight of a small rural community where the people are the heroes. As part of the Glenkens Food Month we're offering a pedal powered climate conversations screening in the walled garden of the Garroch Estate. Dirt! is an environmental documentary narrated by Jamie Lee Curtis. It brings to life the environmental, economic, social and political impact that the soil has. This screening is powered by a bike-operated generator, volunteers and audience members can take turns to keep the film rolling. You'll need to keep the wheels spinning to get to the end of the evening! Later on, at the end of September Driftwood Cinema present A Night at the Cinema in Dalry Town Hall - a special night of silent film accompanied by live musicians, Ben and Beth Porter, who are currently working on scoring the new Aardman film. We hope to see you at some of the events coming up! The CatStrand Team DALRY ECO FLOWER GROUP This year we have been able to purchase new planters with support from Dumfries & Galloway Council supplying some plants and Dalry Community Council for micro grant funding. We’d also like to thank our community volunteers who water, feed and tend our beautiful planters - without you our plants would be very thirsty. You may have noticed we have an array of different planters - we do like out, please get in touch. It’s a calming, relaxing wee job to do! So, from our wee group to you - please walk round our village and enjoy the blooming view! Angie Glenkens Gazette page 14 Farewell from CatStrand's Aidan As I prepare to leave post at CatStrand and move away from Dumfries & Galloway to start a new job with Puppet Animation Scotland in Edinburgh I'm reflecting on four years of events, projects, community, fun and beautiful surroundings that I've found in the Glenkens and the region. First of all, a big "thank you" to everyone who has been a part of my time here as youth arts coordinator and as arts, culture & hertitage manager at CatStrand. Highlights from my time at CatStrand have to be the stained glass phoneboxour youth booth project - which I helped young people create in my role as youth arts coordinator. It makes me smile every time I walk by, remembering painting it in our 'CSI' suits. Memorable moments from my time as arts manager have to include watching Within this Dust in which Sara Lockwood's students joined in with the performance and brought a tear to my eye; the 20-strong Fat Suit jazz collective filling our small auditorium with glorious sound that could knock your socks off; Dalry Town Hall's Samson Sounds gig which had such a fantastic atmosphere, the hall was packed out and jumping. I really enjoyed touring the villages with our Mid Winter Film Festival - complete with Anne always arriving for her volunteer shift and tipping much more whisky into the soup kettle hot toddy concoction than I had! Having a Q&A with the filmmaker of Piano to Zanskar felt like a special moment too. The events last year in the park felt like a true triumph for our community. Watching willing helpers gather to build a marquee and shift very heavy staging and spray painting 30 carefully measured circles onto the grass so that we could put music and theatre on in the park when restrictions were beginning to be lifted was all worth it for the appreciation of those audiences Aidan Nicol, CatStrand arts, culture & heritage manager, and musicians who will be sorely missed by the communities of the Glenkens were so pleased to be performing and management through his time leading watching again. And the Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival of course bobbing about Loch Ken on and he is committed to getting to know a paddle board this year as our On the the Glenkens once again and supporting Water event came together on a June the creative activity in the area. Peter will evening was magical too! take up post in August and will be a great There is so much great stuff I could addition to the Glenkens Community & talk about - but at the root of it all I Arts Trust's team at CatStrand - look have loved the spirit of the people in out in the next issue of the Gazette for a the Glenkens, who want and are willing proper intro from Peter. to create and do and work to make this Aidan Nicol, area a wonderful place to live. It's been Arts, Culture & Heritage Manager, a great pleasure to be part of that and a CatStrand privilege to call this place home. Galloway was not somewhere I had We are all sorry that Aidan visited before I took up my job as youth is leaving us, she has done a arts coordinator in 2017, but it will fantastic job in her time with definitely be somewhere I'll be returning GCAT and she will be greatly to often. It soon stole my heart and I've thoroughly enjoyed the relaxed pace of missed around CatStrand and life, friendly, open and caring people, the Glenkens. varied and creative cultural goings-on Everyone at CatStrand wishes and weather that some years means you Aidan well in her new role can grow tomatoes outside - something, in Edinburgh and we look as a Shetlander, that still shocks me. I'm delighted to say our arts forward to welcoming Peter programme is in safe hands under Renwick as our new Arts & the newly appointed Peter Renwick. Heritage Manager. Peter is familiar to some of you, having Brian Edgar, previously worked for CatStrand General Manager, around 10 years ago. He has extensive experience of rural arts programme CatStrand 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... A ROOF OVER YOUR HEAD Glenkens Gazette page 15 Taking a Look at Housing in the Glenkens Housing in the Glenkens is something which seems to be coming to the forefront more and more. We have a proportionally large number of empty houses in the area – I could name 20 off the top of my head, and that's outside of the villages. Then there are also many houses that would previously have been let on a long-term basis but are now being let as holiday-lets. And of course, we are having a post-lockdown property boom, which means South of Scotland Community Housing (SOSCH) is an organisation that was established as a houses previously rented out are now going on the market and selling like hotcakes. New people buying houses and moving into the community is wonderful, but local folk being out-priced when trying to buy and having a severe lack of long-term rental options is becoming a serious problem. Also, business seems to take priority over the human element in communities these days, and there are various examples of local houses being taken out of commission due to business interests. There are so many constructive projects, along with increasing amounts of grant and windfarm funding, boosting the Glenkens economy and infrastructure, and building it into a go-to destination to live in as well as to visit. But how can this happen if there are not enough houses available for people to live in? Good housing, varying from affordable housing through to high-end options, needs to be available on the rental market and also for those wishing to buy or to build. Over the next few pages we will look into this issue in a bit more depth, and hear from a number of people with different views on housing in our area. Sarah Ade, Editor, Glenkens Gazette reaction to shortfall in rural housing supply in Dumfries & Galloway and now works to support community-led solutions to localised affordable housing challenges. We engage with community organisations across the region in order to understand – at a micro-localised level – issues of housing supply and then develop housing projects that address these. Our organisation is well aware of the rural housing crisis, but in recent months our direct engagement with communities has highlighted an increasing concern that people on local wages are finding it increasing difficult to access suitable housing – and, in particular, housing that is safe, warm, offers security of tenure and is affordable to run. We are seeing levels of second home ownership increase across our rural communities, with this trend continuing to accelerate. Continued on next page... Glenkens Gazette Continued from front page... SOSCH will work with communities in the longterm to identify and deliver solutions, particularly within the wider context of community empowerment and ownership of assets. In recent months we have assisted the delivery of Scotland’s first community owned passive-certified homes in Closeburn, a project designed to sustain the local community with new families, helping I have read about other local Councils Devon and Cornwall way - that have 'capped' how many homes can be holiday homes, but unfortunately I doubt D&G Council would go for this. I have always wondered why trailer parks haven't really become a thing over here, given that we seem to copy a number of other US trends. I fully understand there are stereotypes with these, but you can get bad neighbours anywhere and from any type of housing. I know that some holiday parks do now have residential licences, but they are few and far between. I can't help but think that if a housing association, for example, were to go to one of the companies who make these Galloway famously has the lowest average salaries in mainland Scotland. The only chance we had to keep young people here was page 16 to support the school, whilst also addressing climate emergency and fuel poverty. We have also supported a number of groups to repurpose empty or derelict buildings as community-led housing, including Langholm Police Station, the former Bank of Scotland building in Wigtown (which also includes affordable visitor accommodation managed by the community) and the former Grapes Hotel in Whithorn. Our work can support homes for locally affordable ownership or rent that are allocated according to community needs. In recent months, we’ve undertaken research into post-COVID living, considering societal shifts around the individual’s relationship with home, immediate environment and community, considering changes that are likely to continue (for example, increased working from home) and some positives, such as increased levels of community support and heightened resilience around community ownership. This work has been adapted into an enhanced design guide that seeks to place community at the heart of decision making around housing. SOSCH would be very happy to open a dialogue with Glenkens communities around local housing needs and to work to consider community-led solutions. More information on our work can be found on our website – www.sosch. org Mike Staples pre-fab buildings with a large order, they'd get a good price per unit - surely cheaper and ultimately less hassle than a full build. SOME IDEAS FROM GAZETTE READERS When you start looking at some of these pre-fab units, they are really nice. These units are also ideal for people on their own and the elderly (who will likely struggle with stairs). The smaller size means they are also far easier to maintain for the elderly and generally they are put on plots with a small garden, again reducing maintenance for the occupant. If you create a 'park' which primarily caters to the elderly/those without children (I don't think these units would be suitable for long-term usage by a family), it stands to reason that it will free up flats and houses that are currently "underoccupied". I know in the US somebody is usually employed to 'manage' a park and take care of all the smaller issues, so potentially creating employment too. Balmaclellan Resident the quality of life and the fact that houses might be affordable. The recent COVIDinduced price increases are really worrying. We need to have some difficult conversations about whether we want our young ...source funding to create other holiday let options such as pods/shepherd's huts, to allow existing properties to be let long-term while the landowner still makes money from holiday lets. ...incentives for landlords to rent out their empty properties, with financial support to help bring properties up to rental standard. ...local housing regeneration; eco-housing created with support from wind farm monies and the regional council - there are examples of this type of partnership working in the Highlands. people to get onto the housing market. We need to talk about the supply of houses and whether we want Galloway to be solely a holiday destination or a working, functioning community. Corsock Resident Tough Call for Landlords as New Energy Rating Regulations Loom Glenkens Gazette From what I can see, the housing situation in the Glenkens will only get worse unless there is some substantive new build. In more general terms, it is not quite as simple as the estates, if we use that generic term, trying to maximise profit. Yes, holiday rentals are more lucrative, but it is closer than you might at first think when all costs are factored in. The real issue that many landlords have identified is the legislation coming from Scottish Government (more onerous than the rest of the UK) with regard to energy performance requirements. I am 100% behind recognising the effects of climate change and the need for adaptation. We certainly need to change our energy sources but, even more importantly, we need to cut energy consumption which is of course recognised by Scottish Government - but there is a tradeoff. In very simple terms, many ‘Galloway Cottage' type properties (and other areas of Scotland with same housing stock will have the same problem) just cannot be brought up to the energy efficiency standards that are approaching. The Pamela Young Trust (PYT) has been providing affordable housing in the Glenkens for nearly 30 years. Created by the late Pam Young, who wanted to give something to the community she loved, it started with retirement accommodation but for many years now the trustees welcome applications from anyone, page 17 The strategy to improve the housing stock vis-à-vis energy efficiency is laudable, but what if it is impossible and leads to a housing crisis in areas such as ours? When I say ‘ impossible', I don’t mean ‘not economically viable' - I really do mean ‘impossible’. Some of our Glenkens houses are totally unsuited to things regularly recommended such as external wall insulation and internal wall insulation, have no appropriate locations for air or ground source heat pumps, no attic space to insulate to normal ‘urban’ standards, etc. Then there is the much-trumpeted drive to remove gas boilers...a lot of the Glenkens would love the chance to install mains gas boilers! If current plans kick in as presently legislated, the situation is pretty stark. These changes are currently on hold due to the impact of COVID but the proposed changes, which landlords will be aware of and planning for, are that all rental properties will need to be at least an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of band D within the not too distant future. If you were running an estate with say six properties, all band F, and little prospect of being able to bring them in line with the new legislation - what would you do? Options are a) spend a huge amount on them but young or old, single or with a family, with a Glenkens connection. The trust currently rents out 22 properties in the Glenkens to longterm tenants. But they also have a long list of applicants looking for housing that they are unable to help until a property becomes available. Regarding increasing their housing stock, their policy has always been, and continues to be, not to consider buying a property unless it has been on the market for at least six months so that locals wanting to buy are not put at a disadvantage. as said above this might not even be an option b) leave them empty, thus generating no income or c) move them into a booming holiday home market where rents are increasing? It seems pretty obvious that any professional advice would be to go for c). I am not defending landlords taking homes out of the long-term rental market in favour of holiday lets, but feel that it's important to look at these types of facts to enable a full understanding of the situation. Perhaps, as food for thought, landlords be given the ability to apply for an exemption from the new rules, giving reasons for their application to a panel of surveyors approved by the Government. If the surveyor agrees then an exemption certificate is issued. If the surveyor disagrees then there is the ability for the landlord to apply for grants to assist with bringing the property up to standard, perhaps with the intervention rate being means-tested. The legislation and strategy behind it is well meaning but will only exacerbate the rural housing crisis. Legislation really requires more specific targeting at Rachman-type landlords renting sub-standard properties which could be improved and which are mainly, but by no means exclusively, urban. A Glenkens Landlord Steve Davie, Chairman of PYT, comments: “In addition to our lengthy waiting list, we are also concerned about the new Scottish government legislation regarding energy efficiency because some of our existing properties, although well maintained, may not fulfil the new criteria and, if an upgrade is even feasible, a considerable amount of costly work will need to be carried out. We would urge the government to consider exemptions for certain older rural properties which would be almost impossible to bring up to the new standards”. Forest Crofts in the Glenkens Glenkens Gazette page 18 The Glenkens has two assets in abundance; state and privately owned forest land and deserted farmsteads, often engulfed in Sitka spruce. In a sense, the Glenkens pays a high price for being part of the Sitka capital of Scotland in terms of acid rain, damage to local roads by the timber industry and the continuing march of new commercial plantations, fuelled by extraordinarily generous grants to landowners and forestry companies. Few benefits accrue locally from the vast Sitka expanses. Economic added value is taken outside the region. Increasingly contractors are brought in from far afield to conduct harvesting and other forestry operations. The benefits accrue elsewhere: the problems remain here. individuals and communities to build lives and livelihoods based on the woodland resource. It is also expected that the approach to management taken by woodland crofters will deliver social, economic and environmental benefits. Lifestyles and livelihoods based on woodlands are traditional in many parts of the world, but are currently rare in Scotland. Although it is anticipated that woodland crofts will always involve an [Muirdrochwood] Carsphairn). The proposal would incorporate plans to divide areas of Sitka forest into crofts, with the right to erect an eco-efficient house and outbuidings. There would be regulation as to forest management on the crofts (eg perhaps a progressive switch to a more mixed woodland resource) and common management of wider ‘common’ forest areas. As such, the local authority planning policy would need to be supportive but this partly exists for Carsphairn parish already. What is a woodland croft? A woodland croft is a croft with sufficient tree cover overall to be considered a woodland under forestry policy. element of woodland management, the exact nature and extent of this is not prescribed. Whilst there are constraints on how a woodland is managed at the whole woodland Need it be this way? It used to be the case that employment was much more local, the villages of the Glenkens all had forestry workers living and working within a ten mile radius and forestry offices were here. For example the Forestry Commission had offices at the Bennan and Clatteringshaws. Dedicated villages were constructed here for workers. Dùn Deugh no more, Glen Trool no more! Perhaps it is time to look at new ways to use these otherwise often sterile plantations. One possibility would be to use a small fraction of the area for woodland crofts. What is a woodland croft? A woodland croft is a croft with sufficient tree cover overall to be considered a woodland under forestry policy. Woodland crofts are an opportunity for scale, there is considerable flexibility for individual woodland croft tenants to manage their crofts to meet their own needs and aspirations. The way to establish such crofts locally (at least on state land) would be through community getting together a bid under the National Forest Land Scheme (as was done successfully in respect of Mardrochit Imagine that (for example) the Polmaddy Glen was re-populated with forest crofts. This glen used to be a vibrant local farming community in its own right. Barlae, Drumness, Largerie, Craig Lingal, Castlemaddy, Sheil of Castlemaddy, Darnaw (amongst others) were all small holdings up the valley. Could this be recreated? One problem is that there is no electricity grid in these areas: that can be turned into a benefit as off-grid self reliant holdings could be created using solar energy and small scale wind turbines and, in some cases, micro-hydro. In time this could stimulate local entreprise supporting such developments. Another problem in the past has been the reluctance of the forestry authorities to countenance people living inside working commercial forests. This is for a good reason, often when such places have been sold to incomers (or when the original buyers resell) in the past, the new folk then devote the rest of their lives to complaining to the forestry authorities about potholes in forest roads, timber trucks, etc. Could the sterile Sitka factory forests give way to a diverse mosaic of crofts and woodland of a mixed nature, supporting local people and expertise? Michael Ansell, Cars Feàrna If you have any thoughts on any of the housing articles featured, or would like to get in touch with like minded people to work towards a new housing initiative in the Glenkens, get in touch with us here at the Gazette on glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk Glenkens Gazette GROWING UP It was playtime and the class ran out into the fresh air. The boys mostly played football or swung from the low branch of the tree. The girls gathered in small giggling groups, or did handstands against the wall. Peter… Peter did what he always did, he ran to the far end of the playground, to the third fencepost from the left and back to his spot. He did this twice more and then stood, with his back to the wall, getting his breath back and watching… watching the cars passing and checking the numbers, sorting the friendly numbers from the dangerous numbers in his head. Here was a dangerous number, on a white van, ‘02’ it said. Two was a really dangerous number, two sides in a war, two people fighting, two eyes staring into his soul. Peter gave a shiver. ‘14’ was the next one, he didn’t like this one much either, he didn’t like any even number really, because they all divided by two, into two armies, two teams, two sides to argue, and there was always a tension with two. ‘03’, he liked three, like a triangle, no side could face the other, there could be no confrontation. He had played a triangle on stage once, at the Christmas concert, his mum had told him to be brave, he had been, and nothing bad happened. A motorbike came past, '13' it said, he liked that, thirteen was a friendly number, like the one and three had got together and squeezed the two out of existence. Then a ‘09’, that was a great number, three times three, one of the best. He had once seen ‘117’, that had been a special day, it was his favourite number of all because it was nine times thirteen. Then he heard it coming, that devil of a black car, with a noisy exhaust and the worst number of all ‘222’. He closed his eyes until it was past. Then the bell rang for end of playtime, it was too sudden and loud, he held his hands over his ears until it stopped, and it was time to go back in. Peter joined the queue and most of the others ignored him; that was fair because he ignored them. One or two of the other children smiled at him and he smiled back, like he had been told to – that was good manners. It was a new day. Peter went into his classroom with the rest and there at the front was his teacher, Mrs Benson and another lady and a girl. Mrs Benson spoke… “children, this is Fiona, she is joining our class. Fiona doesn’t speak to people but she understands if you speak to her. If she wants to say something, she will write "Tea for Two" page 19 it down and show you. Please make her welcome.” Fiona tugged her mother’s sleeve, she bent down and Fiona seemed to whisper something in her ear. Fiona’s mother spoke… “she is glad to be here and hope you will all be her friends.” That playtime, after he had done his three runs, Peter watched to make sure that Fiona was safe and to see if she needed his help. It was good to help people. She was with a group of girls, looking at a magazine. They were laughing, Fiona was laughing too, this meant she was safe. One day Fiona came to stand beside him at playtime. She wrote something in her notebook and showed it to him. “What are you doing?” it said. He explained about sorting the friendly numbers and the dangerous numbers and about triangles. She smiled and stood beside him. Then she seemed to get an idea, she went away and came back with another girl and a piece of string tied in a loop. The girl said “Fiona wants me to show you cat’s cradle, it’s a game.” The two girls made the cat’s cradle and when it was in the other girl’s hands, Fiona traced the shape of the triangles it made. She had remembered what Peter had told her about liking triangles. Peter liked cat’s cradle, he was happy. Fiona often stood beside Peter at playtime. Sometimes they watched the cars together and sometimes they played cat’s cradle. It was the last day of the last term. After the summer they would all be going to big school; Mrs Benson had reminded them at the start of the day. Peter was upset, he didn’t like change. At playtime he paced up and down after his usual runs. Fiona came over and tried to take his hand. He pulled away; he didn’t like to be touched. Cat’s cradle was OK but holding hands was - uncomfortable. She leaned towards him, he wanted to move away. “Be brave” he could hear his mum saying it, inside his head. He was brave. Fiona leaned in towards him and whispered in his ear “it will be alright”. And he thought that it probably would be. Paul Goodwin Glenkens Gazette page 20 Glenkens Gazette page 21 The Optimistic Environmentalist MYTHS & MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT RECYCLING - Part One I have been so glad that at last Dumfries and Galloway Council is now recycling. I like the leaflet the council sent out to tell us what they can recycle and what they can't. However, I then discovered Aldi's own brand yoghurt pots that say on them they cannot be recycled so I thought I'd look into things more. This article is full of facts from the D&G Council themselves as well as from the council website, www. derbyshire.gov.uk and www.green. uw.edu The food and oil on dirty food cardboard and paper can cause problems in the recycling machine which is why the council avoids these. Websites suggest that you can compost pizza boxes and napkins/ serviettes for instance. This is a good idea, but make sure they are not very dirty or the food could attract rats to your bin and nearer to home. Don't assume that compostable items can be recycled. They often clog up the council machines so as yet, the council ask that we don't put compostable items in with garden waste at the household waste recycling centres. Check your compostable item - some things can only be industrially composted, eg bio-plastics. If so, a household compost bin will not get hot enough for it to biodegrade, so you will need to put these in your normal blacklidded refuse bin. For domestic recycling, put it in your compost bin (make one if you haven't already got one - your plants will love it) or give it to a friend. Compostable items will not breakdown in a landfill site once it is sealed. To biodegrade, items need oxygen and sealing a landfill site stops oxygen getting in. Therefore, always compost appropriately if possible. Composite waste is the most problematic to recycle as the different parts need separating and often dealing with differently. For instance, takeaway coffee cups have a layer of plastic inside which is why they cannot be recycled easily and would have to go to a special recycling plant where they can peel the two layers apart. Thin plastic/foil, like crisp packets, sweet wrappers and chocolate wrappers end up contaminating paper; to the recycling machine they are thin and flat like paper so are not filtered out. Gone are the days of small paper receipts. Many receipts are not recyclable. Fifty percent of the UK receipts are printed on shiny thermal paper that's not recyclable because of the harmful BPA and BPS chemicals. That is why you are now being asked if you want a receipt or not. Loose plastic bags, string or rope can tangle round machines so don't put them in the recycling. There are 40,000 different types of plastics in existence. To make it easier to categorise them for us, they have been condensed down into seven types (although one of these is 'miscellaneous'). Thus the numbers on a plastic item show which category the plastic falls into. Each plastic is treated with a different chemical process and they are bound together in different ways so require different recycling. Some types are easier to recycle than others. The easiest two are PET, eg in water bottles or salad dressing bottles, and HDPE, eg shampoo bottles and milk bottles. The other types are more problematic and will often require you to find specialist recyclers. There is a common misconception that the green arrow icon (a small, circular green icon with interlocking arrows, pictured) means an item can be receycled. This is not necessarily the case; it just means the company has contributed towards the recovery and recycling of packaging in Europe. To know for sure if you can recycle an item, look for the writing - packaging must explicitly state if it is recyclable. The Mobius loop (a white or green triangle symbol with arrows pointing to each other, pictured) does not mean that it will be acceptable to a recycling facility - it just means it is capable of being recycled. In general, glass, paper and metal can be recycled indefinitely. Once plastic is reused, it degrades in quality so is not normally used to make the same items the next time. Recycled plastic cannot be used for transparent items unless mixed with virgin plastic. Water bottles, for instance, can be used in things like fleeces and carpets. In conclusion, the phrase "if in doubt, leave it out" has been used. It is true that a whole batch of recycling can be ruined by chucking one wrong item in. However, anything we can do is important. The Derbyshire Council's website dispels the myth that recycling uses more energy than it saves; it says that up to 95% less energy is needed to make products using recycled materials. It also states that, for instance, recycling one aluminium can can save enough energy to run a TV for four hours. Look out for Part Two of Myths & Misconceptions About Recycling when there will be a Q&A with D&G Council. Denise MacDonald-Kiernan 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 Trailer, single axle Maypole 712. 4ft x 3ft. 12-years-old. Work required on electrics. Contact: 01644 420 267 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 Ceramic electric cooker hob and oven. Both are Creda models; the hob is creda model 42295 (width 770mm x 470mm depth). The oven is Creda Europa Solar Plus (height 890mm, width 600mm depth 570mm). Donation to LING - contact raglaister@aol.com Foldaway ladder/stool. Contact: 07770 830 727 Part-filled 19kg calor gas propane cylinder. Collect from Carsphairn. Contact: 07794 347 011 Dry, clean tree stumps suitable for being made into garden furniture/creations for someone handy with a chainsaw. Timber, ready to be taken away – needs someone with a chainsaw and trailer, etc. Contact: Jim on 07749 087 699 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 WANTED Old lawn mowers/ strimmers/other small machinery. Non-runners/ broken welcome. Contact: 07845 562 217 Glenkens Gazette page 23 sponsored by HAS MIGRATING TO SEA BECOME TOO DIFFICULT FOR OUR SALMON The River Dee Atlantic salmon smolts can begin their migration out to sea as high up in the Glenkens as Kendoon Loch (reservoir). Atlantic salmon in the Kirkcudbrightshire River Dee have taken a sharp decline in recent years, with numbers far lower than expected for a catchment of this size. Their complex life-cycle exposes them to numerous habitats and pressures, with darkly-coloured juveniles (parr) remaining camouflaged in freshwaters for 2-3 years before deciding to migrate to sea. However, before they can migrate, they need to undergo major physiological changes so that they can cope with life at sea. These changes occur whilst juveniles are still in their freshwater habitats, then – once complete – the race is on for these ‘smolts’ to migrate downstream and out to sea, as their silver colouration now makes them highly visible to predators. The smolts’ journey to sea is fraught with difficulty. In addition to avoiding predators, smolts are even more sensitive to poor water quality than they were as parr, especially in relation to acidification and the release of toxic metals from degraded peatlands, a prominent issue in Dumfries and Galloway. To reach the sea, smolts must also navigate through a series of barriers, fragmented habitats and standing waters, which can all delay and/ or prevent smolts from reaching their destination. For example, a recent study has documented that more than half of a population of tagged smolts can become lost whilst migrating through standing water. Even delays in smolt migration may result in high mortalities due to mismatches between timing of sea entry and optimal environmental conditions (i.e. availability of prey and abundance of predators). The Galloway Fisheries Trust (GFT) are conducting a study to determine what proportion of smolts are able to successfully migrate through the River Dee and out to sea. Using the latest advances in technology, acoustic telemetry was used to detect tagged salmon smolts as they migrated past receivers by transmitting a ‘ping’. The individuals’ unique ID and date are then recorded at that location. A total of 16 receivers were deployed at regular intervals along the River Dee, especially in large areas of standing water (ie Loch Ken). In April, GFT captured and tagged 50 smolts below Carsfad Loch, of which 38 smolts THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE Family and friends coming to stay? Short of space? 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 Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS www.covenanters-holidaycottagescotland.co.uk  01556 502263  had already been detected migrating through Earlstoun Loch by mid-May. Once migration has completed, GFT will remove the receivers for data analyses. Results from this study will be used to identify areas along the River Dee that delayed smolt migration, or where survival was low. These areas can then be prioritised for management and, where possible, improved to ensure that future generations are able to successfully complete their migration out to sea, and thus improve the likelihood of more adults returning to spawn. GFT would like to thank Galloway Glens, Drax and the Dee District Salmon Fishery Board for funding this project, as well as landowners for their continued support. If you would like to know more about the project and other projects from GFT, then visit www. gallowayfisheriestrust.org and/or follow GFT on social media. Samantha Beck, Fisheries Biologist, Galloway Fisheries Trust Glenkens Gazette page 24 It All Started With a Box Hilda McAdam, doyen of the Dalry Heritage Group, phoned me to say that she had a box of papers and medals relating to Gordon Candlish, a postman from Dalry. Would I be interested in having a look through them? I’m sure she guessed what the answer would be – and what a treasure trove! The box contained the family papers of Gordon and his father Anton. Anthony Gordon Candlish (known as Anton) was born in 1897 and, in later years, lived at a house then known as 1 Underhill, Dalry – after a renaming and renumbering, that house is now 68 Main Street. Following his service in the Army in the Great War, Anton was a postman for many years. In the box was a marriage certificate showing that he married Agnes Neil Brown from Edinburgh in 1924. The box contained other treasures too, such as birthday cards and a few photos, one with him beside a baby and a pram taken in Underhill; we presume that the baby was his son, also named Anthony Gordon Candlish but known as Gordon. Anton’s service records for the Great War were lost, like many others, in the Blitz in WW2, but we know that he enlisted into the 5th Battalion Kings Own Scottish Borderers (KOSB) in October 1914 and was soon transferred to the 2nd Battalion and later to the 1st Battalion. He served on the Western Front and the Italian Front. In separate incidents he was gassed, wounded and suffered from trench fever, which is transmitted by body lice. We also know that he was awarded the Military Medal for bravery but generally these citations have not survived and historians understand very few of the circumstances for which these medals were awarded. Fortunately, in this box was a copy of Anton’s citation: to the men of his section, who all lost their lives but himself. This man has on many occasions proved himself a gallant Soldier in Action. Recommended by LIEUT COL CT FURBER, Commdg 2nd KOSB. Awarded Military Medal by XI Corps Commander. Date of Award 21/7/18. He was invalided out of the Army in 1919 and was awarded a Silver War Badge. Hilda recalls that he had difficulty with his speech and this may have been caused by a wound for which he was discharged. When the second World War broke At this point in my research, I became a little confused between several people of the same name (Anthony Gordon Candlish)... 203487 PTE AG Candlish For great gallantry, initiative and devotion to duty during the operation, East of Nieppe Forrest (sic), June 28th 1918. This man was in charge of a Lewis Gun Section. He manoeuvred his Section with skill and dash, enabling the team to kill many of the enemy and greatly assisting the advance of the remainder of his Platoon, when held up by an enemy strong point. Although suffering from fever and a slight wound, throughout the operation he refused to leave the line and his behaviour throughout was a fine example out, Anton applied to join the 7th KOSB On 8 November 1939 and was refused because they were not accepting any more (Great War) NCOs. He wrote to the 5th KOSB on 20 November 1939 and was refused owing to age. On 27 November 1939 he applied to the recruiting centre and this time enclosed his recommendation for the Military Medal – he was again refused due to age and occupation. Obviously still eager to serve, we have a letter from the head postmaster at Castle Douglas dated 5 April 1940 to say that there were no restrictions on him joining HM Forces. Continued on next page... Glenkens Gazette Continued from previous page... A further letter from the recruiting centre in Dumfries dated 16 April 1940 advised him of various options open for him to serve but we suspect that he continued working as a postman and could speculate that he was a member of the Home Guard. Although there were no service medals in the box, there were three RoSPA safe driving competition medals for seventeen consecutive years. At this point in my research, I became a little confused between several people of the same name (Anthony Gordon Candlish) but it eventually sorted itself out after I started at the beginning and made a chart (included to the left of the page opposite). Anthony Gordon was an Army Officer who retired to Dalry after serving for over 32 years in the late 1700s. He died in 1843 at the age of 87 as is recorded in the book Gordons Under Arms. He died without leaving a will and his daughter had pre-deceased him so his pension was inherited by his grandson, Anthony Gordon Candlish (born 1804). The grandson served in the Royal Artillery from 1825 to 1843 and briefly became a Chelsea Pensioner before he married in 1843. He died in 1846, just page 25 two years after his son was born. This brings us to the son, also Anthony Gordon Candlish (born 1844), who inherited two houses in Dalry from the original Anthony Gordon in 1867. This Anthony married and had a child (you guessed it, Anthony Gordon Candlish) in 1869, sadly dying the following year. The latest Anthony (born 1844) remarried in 1893 (presumably his first wife had died) and they had one child (another Anthony Gordon Candlish born 1896) and this child was the one who started this whole investigation. It was not uncommon at this time to give two children in a family the same name in order to preserve a family tradition. This Anthony (born 1844) died in 1917. Anthony Gordon Candlish (Anton) was born in 1896 and served with distinction in the Great War. He married in 1924 and died on 26 October 1955 of a spinal cord tumour at the young age of 59 years. Anton’s son (Anthony Gordon Candlish) was born in 1928. He was known as Gordon and was too young to serve in WW2 but he served in the Territorial Army for a brief period in 1946 and we have his Skill at Arms record. He became a postman, like his father, but he had no children and died in 1993 Anthony Gordon Candlish, the one known as Anton, in later life. so he was the last Anthony Gordon Candlish. Anton’s Great War service is remembered on the Roll of Honour in Dalry Town Hall and also on the Castle Douglas Post Office Roll of Honour where he is (incorrectly) noted as having died in the war. As there are no descendants, the family are remembered only by this article and a small box of papers held by Dalry Heritage Group. Paul Goodwin BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT An exciting new venture for West Coast Sea Products (WCSP) brings fresh Scottish seafood to the doors of Glenkens residents in Dalry, Balmaclellan and New Galloway. Alice King, WCSP local sales manager, founded her seafood delivery service during lockdown last year to make Scottish produce more accessible to locals. One year on, and she has brought the business home to offer top quality fish to people living in Dumfries and Galloway. “I started by selling our scallops in and around Edinburgh during lockdown last year, and it really took off! It wasn’t long before I invested in a fish van, ran a regular service and began selling at farmers markets in Kirkcudbright and Castle Douglas too. “So much has changed over this first year of deliveries - we have a much larger selection of seafood available now, and have started a delivery service throughout Dumfries and Galloway. It’s amazing how much demand we are seeing for our local produce, and it’s been great to offer more species through connecting with small independent fishermen and producers.” Alice, who grew up in the fishing town of Kirkcudbright, has enjoyed being back in Dumfries & Galloway delivering this service. “It’s been great to be back home, and really exciting to be at the helm of a new venture offering our amazing products directly to local folk. Customers can come along and buy directly from the van or preorder using our online shop, and we also have a stand at the Glenkens Producers Market in Dalry. So if you see our van in the Glenkens area, come and say hi!” YOU WILL FIND THE WCSP VAN EVERY WEDNESDAY IN: • Balmaclellan from 11.15-11.45am (next to Balmaclellan Village Hall) • New Galloway from 12.15-12.45pm (on the High Steet, near the Post Office) • Dalry from 13.15-13.45pm (by the old Bank of Scotland building) You can find full West Coast Sea Products delivery routes across D&G, and order online, at www.wcspltd.co.uk Pictured - Top: Alice with the WCSP market stall. Centre: the fish van. Bottom: freshly caught scallops. Glenkens Gazette page 26 GLENKENS PLACE NAMES: PART XI In the last edition we explored the deserted farmsteads and their place-names in the Forrest Glen. the shape will have been altered over the years not least by the Forestry Commission dredging gravel out of the river to help create the new forestry road into Castlemaddy Forest. The other named ford is the Ballensack Ford, just a bit upstream. This is probably from Beul-àtha nan sac ,‘ford mouth of the sacks’, perhaps referring to where the sacks of meal were exported from the mill, maybe some being taken to the supposed hunting lodge at Castlemaddy. There is another Ballensack in the Stewartry, this one being the old name for mhic Chormaic (Gilmor McAulaye McOrnayk) in favour of his grandson Aulan mac Aulain mhic Cormaic (Aulan son of Aulan McOrnayk). It is interesting to note the Gaelic-Norse nature of some of this family’s personal names. Amhladh, deriving ultimately from Ólafr. Could this hark back to the naming Now we venture a bit further north traditions brought by the Gall Ghàidheal this time up the Polmaddy Glen, from (foreign ie Norse Gaels) – the folk who the confluence of the Polmaddy, Poll effectively Gaelicised Galloway from Madaidh - ‘dog burn’, with the Water of the 9th-10th centuries on? It is also Deugh - Dubhach ‘dark one’, according noteworthy that the personal naming to Place-Names of Kirkcudbrightshire. here is patronymic rather than involving I think Dundeugh, Dùn Dubhach - ‘fort a fixed surname. of the Deuch’, probably Continuing upstream originally applied to the we next come to the the old fortification near deserted farmstead of where the Polmaddy Largerie. This is still enters the Water of visible, having been Deugh. However, dùn in a small unplanted can mean a prominent area through the first ‘fort-looking hill’ rather Sitka rotation. It was than anything specifically occupied in 1853 but man-made and, as deserted by 1894. the other subsidiary The place-name is tops on this hill also somewhat problematic are named as dùnan, due to the fact that I think that is also the Herbert Maxwell, in his case here. The correct book The Place-Names name for Dundeugh of Galloway, suggests Hill would have been that the pronunciation Dunmore - Dùn Mòr, ‘big stress is on the first hill’, as Dunbeg - Dùn syllable. Gilbert Márkus Beag, ‘small hill’and explains how this stress Dunbannoch - Dùn would lead perhaps to Beannach, ‘pointed a derivation from Learg Ruins of Largerie farmstead, Learg Àirigh or Learg Iarach hill’ are the other tops. Àirigh, ‘sloping sheiling’. These three dùn names However, as Gilbert are recorded on the OS says, this would be an Roberton Bridge over the Pulwhirrin 1st edition map of 1853. The name unusual combination and construction. Burn in Borgue parish. This is also near Dundeugh Hill then simply refers to I suspect that Maxwell made a mistake a former mill, Kirkandrews in this case. the hill grazing ground pertaining to here though and that what we are A bit further upstream is Stepend, Dundeugh farm. This type of confusion dealing with is Learg Iarach, ‘lower in ruins in 1853. Step referring to happens a lot in Galloway. For slope’. stepping-stones. Stepend has also been example, Kirrereoch Hill (just north of Across the river from Largerie is the destroyed by forestry operations. The the Merrick) was originally am Beinn attractively sited former farmstead of Gaelic equivalent is stair, ‘stepping Mheadhonach, ‘the middle mountain’, Drumness. This is situated on a ridge stones over a river, path through a bog’. but it is now known by the name above a quite dramatic set of rapids and This is seen at Stair on the River Ayr that was coined for the hill grazing of waterfalls on the Polmaddy. The placeand probably Starr close to the south Kirrereoch farm at its foot. name reflects the situation well, being end of Loch Doon. Anyway, back to lost farmsteads. Just north of Polmaddy and to the east from Druim an easa, ‘the ridge of the The first one encountered on the way waterfall’. The farmhouse was probably of the pack road is the ruin of Barlae. upstream on the south bank of the abandoned when the land was bought This was still inhabited at least as late Polmaddy burn is Woodhead. This as 1894 and seems to be located beside by the Forestry Commission in the is across the river from the ruined 1960s, and became a hostel for the Air the line of the so-called Deil’s Dyke. Polmaddy village.The place-name is self Training Corps before they relinquished This dyke (most easily seen where it explanatory but whatever presumably it. It has since decayed markedly and crosses the Forrest Glen) is probably native woodland was being referred is suggested for demolition by Forestry a boundary dyke for the royal hunting to was gone by 1853 and now, of and Land Scotland. This will be the forest to the west. Barlae is most course, the site has been obliterated by second farmhouse demolished in the likely from Bàrr Laoigh, ‘calf-hilltop’. commercial forestry operations. glen by the Forestry Commission, the Happily the ruins of Barlae cottage and Polmaddy village is no doubt named other being Sheil of Castlemaddy which outbuildings can still be seen in a small from the burn flowing past it. Three was knocked down in 2011. clearing amongst the Sitka. This farm named fords are marked on the OS 1st We will continue upstream in the next was long held by the McCornock family edition map, two derived from Gaelic, Gazette. who also had Strongassil, Sròn gCaiseil, the other Scots. The easternmost is the ‘castle promontory’, from at least as Michael Ansell, Camling Ford from Cam Linn, ‘crooked far back as 1365 when the place was Cars Fèarna pool’. There is a crooked pool here but resigned by Gille Mòr mac Amhlaidh Glenkens Gazette page 27 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN THE ROGUE AT THE BOGUE: PART TWO John Gordon Barbour of Bogue was one of the Glenkens’ greatest eccentrics. A sample of Barbour’s questions is diagnostic. "Would Shoemakers and Weavers make good Kings? Is Gout any Criterion of Christianity? Are the Lower Ranks of Mankind all really Swine? Does a wooden ladle or a silver spoon make a huge In the last issue of the Glenkens difference Gazette we noted that his radical in a Man’s politics rendered him suspect in intellect?" the eyes of many. What then of his In 1824 he views on religion? Before looking at published a a few of his ideas on the subject, it tract entitled should be stressed that Barbour was Is it a Crime a sincere admirer of the seventeenth to Speak century Covenanters, a subject which the Truth; always caused him a visitation of the or Queries "blue devils", in other words deep Connected despondency. The political concerns with of the "folk of the moss haggs" rather Christianity, chimed with his own of the nineteenth using his nom century, particularly on matters of de plume, authority and responsibility. Charles Cincinnatus I and his son basically and hideously Caledonius. As a consequence, he found declared war on their own subjects, it difficult to find publishers for his later notably the largely defenceless faithful of work. The following quote may indicate Galloway. some of Barbour’s difficulties when his publisher told him that his publications were not selling well: "How in the name of Heaven can I have great success with the (publishing) trade! I never flatter gipsies, or sinecurists, or swindlers. I can see no religion in people breaking their word, or walzing, or boxing. I can scent no Christianity in kept mistresses, in Drury Lane saloons, or in Blackwood’s Magazine. I can spy none of the spirit of Jesus Christ in Irish or English bishops living in France, For bookings and info: in British senators staring at Sadler’s Duncan Kennedy balloon when they should be searching for a murdered dk@passcan.co.uk missionary, or in knocking down www.passcan.co.uk three hundred thousand pounds for the knocking down of Windsor Castle, while the devil is knocking three hundred thousand souls in the benighted Highlands of Scotland." (James Sadler in 1784 became the first Englishman to fly a balloon. Royal or Government expenditure was as much resented in the eighteenth century as it is today). Miss Isabel Trotter noted in her journal she had been told by Mr Mackenzie, an author and poet from Castle Douglas, about Barbour’s publisher’s refusal to sell his book. "Some things in it are very censurable I understand". It is very doubtful that she would have enjoyed Barbour’s essay comparing the corruption in the Old Testament with contemporary Britain. One of his reflections was to compare "the good done by the Empress Maria Louisa and the inventress of Dunlop cheese"! He was mercilessly lampooned for several years in the Castle Douglas Miscellany and its successor, the Castle Douglas Advertiser, as had been James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd, by the Walter Scott circle, though there is a suggestion that, like Hogg, Barbour came to enjoy playing along with the gallery, transferring the humour to his tormentors. When he was accused of exaggeration of statement and sentiment, mystifying his feelings and playing such fantastic tricks as would make old wives laugh, as well as displaying boldness and irreverence, he continued to write under the name of ‘Lowran Glen’. He wanted to write a book that "would have told what all the world knows, that the Scots of the days of yore were the greatest heroes that ever trod the face of the earth; that scarcely a burnside or a hilltop in Scotland can be mentioned but what was the scene of deeds of heroism to which Waterloo and Salamanca were bairn’s play and local worthies could have dragged a live bullock with his horns stuck in their belts, up the face of Cairnsmore". Barbour was unique, remaining throughout his life the Rogue from the Bogue! Ted Cowan "Would Shoemakers and Weavers make good Kings? Is Gout any Criterion of Christianity? Are the Lower Ranks of Mankind all really Swine?..." ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY SCANNING Dairy & Sucklers; Ageing, Twin & Barren Detection. Trailer system includes triplets, marking and shedding. Pregnancy and number of pups. 07860 474001 Glenkens Gazette page 28 WINDY RIG WIND FARM PROGRESS UPDATE Advertisement In July, a major project milestone was reached, with the final turbine component delivered to site. This was the first time a specialist blade transporter was used in the UK. If you didn’t see it in action, you can view a video at www.statkraft. co.uk/windyrig and completing the testing and commissioning programme. It is expected, weather and other factors permitting, that all Windy Rig turbines will be exporting power to the grid this autumn. Local Road Improvements Offsite, the Team will be working on the C35 and the laydown area Once again, we would like to thank local residents for their patience during the delivery of the turbine components. We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused during this time, and sincerely thank local residents for their patience during the delivery period. On site, the Windy Rig Team are now working towards erecting the remaining turbines in Carsphairn. Remedial works to restore the C35 to its pre-delivery condition are being planned and agreed with Dumfries & Galloway Council. There is a legal agreement and bond in place to cover this work, and the Council will need to approve the works once they are completed. Details will be shared with residents along the route before the works commence. At Carsphairn, work has started to clear the blade laydown area in preparation for planting to provide screening. Blades waiting to be lifted into position For up to date information on project progress, visit www. statkraft.co.uk/windyrig WINDY STANDARD WIND FARM COMMUNITY UPDATE Windy Standard Wind Farm has been in operation for over 25 years. Advertisement We are currently exploring how we can continue to operate the wind farm with fewer turbines, increase electricity production and continue to invest in the local community. We have created an online exhibition where you can learn more about our plans to remove 36 of the existing turbines, replacing them with nine turbines with a height of up to 200m to tip. The exhibition can be accessed at www. windystandardwindfarm.co.uk. We would really welcome your feedback and opinions on what we are proposing. You can make comments online, by email to communities@fredolsen.co.uk or by phone on 07435 763 900. If you have any problems accessing the exhibition please get in touch and let me know. I can easily provide the information on memory stick or hard copy and talk you through the proposals. We are very excited about the opportunities that our plans present. This includes re-using the turbine components that will be removed from the site. We want to work with the community and stakeholders to identify how a unique concept for the local area can be brought forward, focussing on sustainability and creativity. The online exhibition details a range of potential uses for the turbines including cattle troughs for use by local farmers, playparks for local children, climbing walls for outdoor centres, benches and even glamping pods. I really hope that you will take the time to have a look and provide some feedback. And please do get in touch should you have any questions. Miles McConville, Project Manager, Windy Standard Wind Farm Pictured are two ideas for reusing turbine components; as glamping pods and skate ramps for a skate park. Glenkens Gazette page 29 Glenkens Gazette page 30 Sponsored by the Mac & Cheese Co Photo of the Issue Stockbridge This issue’s winner is Susan Currie with her photograph of the Holy Linn, a wellknown beauty spot outside Balmaclellan which was also a location for secret sermons during the covenanting times. Susan wins two portions of mac & cheese of her choice from our new competition sponsors, the Balmaclellanbased Stockbridge Mac & Cheese Co. Company owner and competition judge, Hannah Gould, said: "The photograph of the Holy Linn is the winner this issue - this is one of my favourite spots in the Glenkens and I love swimming there!" To enter you can send in any photograph taken in the Glenkens to glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 01644 420234 Local company Natural Power is currently recruiting – visit their website to find out what jobs are available at www. naturalpower.com/uk/ careers 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 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 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 charity shop on Main Street, Dalry Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING): Contact Ros Hill on ros.hill@rathanhouse.co.uk Dalry Communities Properties Trust (DCPT): Contact Gary Blissett on 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 on 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 on 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 Bright Stars - Glenkens Community Nursery: Contact glenkenscommunitynursery@gmail.com Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership (GGLP): Contact McNabb Laurie on 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 - 1 Aug & 5 Sept. Carsphairn: 11am - 8 Aug, 12 Sept & 29 Sept. Kells: 11am - 15 Aug & 19 Sept. Dalry: 11am - 22 Aug & 26 Sept. Communion: Kells Church, 15 Aug. Harvest Thanksgiving: Dalry Church, 26 Sept. Local Church of Scotland congregations continue to prepare weekly prayers and reflections that can be accessed on youtube under ‘Balmaclellan, Kells and Dalry linked with Carsphairn’. David is also happy to send these directly to people by email if they contact him at DBartholomew@ churchofscotland.org.uk Paper copies can also be provided to those who do not have internet access. Contact him at 01644 430 380 if you would like to receive these resources, or simply if you would like to have a chat. SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: Communal worship at St Margaret's Church New Galloway has now resumed with the Eucharist on Sundays at 10.30am, followed by coffees/teas (with current guidelines in place). Visitors are always welcome - for further information including directions, please see our website www.stmargaretsnewgalloway.org or call 01644 420 259. 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 32 GLENKENS E-BIKES IN ACTION The day dawned clear, bright and sunny over the Glenkens perfect weather for the Connecting in Communities (CiC) family-friendly bike ride. The event was held to complement the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust’s (GCAT) Active Travel Scheme launch and Galloway Community Transport’s (GCT) e-bike demonstration day. Two rides were planned, both setting off from the CatStrand; a more challenging route for adults and a child-friendly route for families, initially scoped at six miles but stretching to 10 miles on the day! After some milling about, last-minute checks and ooh-ing and ahh-ing over the fabulous new e-bikes, the adult group set off, lead by Jude Jowsey. They pedalled off up the long drag towards Clatteringshaws before heading into the Galloway Forest and the long descent to Glenlee (avoiding the swimming-pool sized potholes) and back to CatStrand via Kirk Road. Meanwhile the families were setting off towards Balmaclellan, little legs doing equally as well as adult ones on the first big hill. Onto the turn along by the cemetery where breath was recovered ahead of the climb from Bogue along the A702 to Moss Roddock Loch, then a nice freewheel before heading north Some of the family bike ride crew enjoying a welcome break en-route. along the High Carsphairn road. After a brief wait at the top of before settling in to watch the thoughtMilton Park Bank while some provoking film Motherload – cargo bike latecomers joined the fun, the group anyone? sped off downhill before cautiously All in all, a brilliant day was had - let’s crossing the A713 and heading towards do it again soon! If you are interested in Glenlee. A welcome break was had at the getting involved with bike rides, family or top of the climb to Kirk Road before the otherwise, please get in touch. final run. Chris Jowsey, Upon returning to the CatStrand, both chris@catstrand.com, groups thoroughly enjoyed tucking 01644 420 374 into some tasty soup and sandwiches 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 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 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. 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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/. 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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 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 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/1/276/GlenkensGazette129.pdf 4a5978801c09ef6cdc451f5f67973957 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 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 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/. 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