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<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> </span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p>
<p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span> </span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p>
<p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p>
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December/January 2010
ISSUE 61
GOING FOR GOLD
States for the first time and will also
be showing her unique glass vessels
at a select few galleries in Dumfries
and Galloway and around the UK this
winter.
The award gives Corsock-based artist To find out more visit
Amanda the opportunity to explore a www.amandajsimmons.co.uk
chosen overseas market. Amanda
has chosen America as her target
market because of the longstanding
tradition of glass making and
collecting, and the fact that it is the
birth place of her particular medium
of kiln formed glass.
Amanda Simmons received a
Gold Award for her unique kiln
formed glass vessels at the
prestigious Origin Craft Council
fair in London.
Amanda will use the award money
to visit New York in Spring 2011.
She says: “I’m very excited about
my research trip to the States as
I haven’t visited for over 15 years
and it will be interesting to see the
changes and experience the applied
arts market on a larger scale. I hope
I will be able to export a little part of
Dumfries and Galloway to America.”
Amanda is currently exhibiting in the
www.glenkensgazette.com
A DECADE
IN PRINT
Matthew Newton, creator of the
Glenkens Gazette, says:
“My original idea of a small local
magazine has certainly blossomed
since GCAT took over.
“There are so many activities and
groups, and the area is home to such
a wide range of talented individuals.
I think the Gazette is a mirror for the
Glenkens and will continue to reflect
the growth and energy of its folk
and their community spirit for many
years to come.
“And one last thing… a word of thanks
to the present editor - I know what a
great amount of time and effort you
must put into each edition!”
Photo shows Amanda receiving her award
in London with representatives from UK
Trade and Investment and Crafts Council
(photo by Gary Plahe)
Thank you Matthew, and well done
for creating such a thriving local
publication!
DALRY SPREADS ITS WINGS
A series of environmental workshops
in October was the launching event
for Dalry Bird Town, celebrating the
life and work of renowned bird artist
Donald Watson and his son, golden
eagle expert Jeff Watson.
During the week 14 young people
braved the chilly October weather
to make art works and explore the
outdoors around Dalry. (See p5 for more
on the Creative Explorer workshops...)
At the heart of the concept of
Dalry Bird Town is the Watson Bird
Centre, which it is hoped will provide
opportunities for new writers, artists
and all interested in any aspect of
birds, arts and landscape, which was
the core of Donald’s work. Roger
Crofts, who is at the forefront of the
project, outlined current thinking on
the conversion of the Watson family
home at Barone on Main Street;
Donald’s original studio, archive and
library, offices for bird organisations,
exhibition space, accommodation and
work space for artist in residence and
caretaker. In addition, the garden
would provide space for sculptures,
trails and an open air studio.
The initiative is being taken forward
by a steering group including Dalry
residents, the Watson family, bird,
arts and science interests and it
has been agreed that the Glenkens
Community and Arts Trust will provide
the charitable home for the initiative.
(See p3 for more on Dalry Bird Town...)
IN THIS
ISSUE
- Halloween
- Bonfire Night
- Birds - Red Kites,
Birdwatchers, Bird
Town, Bird Book
- CatStrand Awards
- Local History
- Clubs
- Much More...
Creative Explorers
Glenkens Gazette
page 2
Local Author: Cathy Cassidy
photo by Chris Watt
Glenkens-based author Cathy Cassidy
gives us a taste of life as a successful
childrens’ book writer:
“I write children’s books, most aimed at
the 9-14 age group, and 2010 was a busy
year for me… but a good one! Back in the
days before I was published, I imagined an
author’s life to be pretty idyllic… lots of
daydreaming mixed in with the occasional
bit of writing. I didn’t factor in the whole
book tour/book festival thing, or deadlines,
or website upkeep… urghh! It turns out
that writing is a more than full-time job,
but the fab reader feedback makes all the
hard work worthwhile.
Book festivals, school visits and bookshop
signings took me from Beijing to Brighton
to Belfast in 2010, and just about
everywhere in between… and in the middle
of all that, I was writing books! Love, Peace
& Chocolate was published in April; Daizy
Star & The Pink Guitar in June; and Cherry
Crush, the first of my new Chocolate Box
Girls series, in September. I was also voted
‘Queen of Teen’ at a national book awards
ceremony in September, which was very
scary – and yes, there was an actual crown
involved. Nobody has been in touch yet to
outline my queenly duties, but I have a few
ideas up my sleeve… surely I can swing a
few perks like free chocolate for all and
daydreaming on the school timetable? Well,
maybe!
Winter is one of my favourite times
of year, though, especially here in
Galloway… it means peace and quiet,
time to write, curled up with my
laptop beside a roaring wood fire. If
writer’s block strikes, I take my dog,
Kelpie, out for a long tramp through
the hills… the still, quiet beauty of
the countryside never fails to work
its usual magic! I am very lucky to live
in such an unspoilt part of Scotland
– after 20 years, I still find it endlessly
inspiring. Travelling the country and beyond
on book tours is fun, but nothing will ever be
better than coming back home to Galloway,
to my cottage, my family. Red kites soaring
overhead, deer picking their way gently
through the shadows… and space to dream.
What could be better?”
Cathy’s newest book, Cherry Crush, is out now
and available to buy at The CatStrand and in all
good bookstores. Find out more about Cathy and
her books on www.cathycassidy.com
NOTICEBOARD
Carsphairn‛s Got (Even More)
Talent takes place on Saturday, 4th
December, in Carsphairn‛s Lagwyne
Hall, at 7.30pm.
The Dalry quarry petition closes
at the end of the month. Anyone
wanting to add their name can
do so at Matthew Newton‛s shop.
The Community Council is planning
to present the petition to D&G
Council in Dumfries on 16th
December. We would like as many
people as possible to come along
to demonstrate the community‛s
opposition.
The pupils of Kells Primary
School would like to invite senior
citizens of our community, to
attend the dress rehearsal of
our play on Tuesday the 14th of
December from 1.30pm-2.30pm.
We would like to offer transport
to those of you who would find
it difficult to get to the school.
Please call the office on 01644 420
340 before the 7th of December
to arrange this. The evening
performance is reserved for
parents and family only.
beginning of December, please
contact Jane Brayshaw (Douglas)
on 01644 420686.
On the Sundays on either side
of Christmas (19th and 26th
December) Dalry Church will be
holding a retiring collection for
the Bethany Drop-in centre for
homeless and vulnerable people
in Dumfries, to help them cover a
shortfall in funding for the salary
of the Drop-in Coordinator.
Call for Volunteers! Dalry School
and the NHS have initiated a
health and well-being project
which hopes to raise awareness
of emotional well-being and self
esteem in an integrated way
involving not only the school and
pupils but parents and the wider
community.
If you are not able to attend these
services and would like to contribute
to this need at Christmas time you
are welcome to pass a donation to
the Rev David Bartholomew or a
Dalry elder.
They are currently looking for
volunteers from the community
who might have a skill to offer to
run a taster session or a series of
sessions during lunchtimes or after
school. The skills could be anything
that addresses or contributes
to emotional well-being and self
esteem, eg: yoga, drama, storytelling
groups, sleep workshops, walking
groups - these are just some
examples. Please contact Morag
Paterson on either 01644 430 004
or moragleeming@me.com
Balmaclellan Community Council
will be holding their annual Senior
Citizens‛ Christmas Lunch in
December. If you are entitled to
attend (eg resident in Balmaclellan
and of an age), and have not
received your invitation by the
Glenkens Gazette
page 3
DOUBLE LAUNCH IN DALRY
Thompson, who led production of
the second edition, introduced it. We
were delighted that Vanessa Halhead,
Jeff’s widow, was with us.
long-standing Dalry resident and one
of its members, spoke of the need
for new vitality in the village and his
enthusiasm for this project.
The Dalry Bird Town Initiative was
introduced by Roger Crofts and is
being taken forward by a steering
Chris Rollie gave a marvellous group including Dalry residents, the
evocation of Donald’s work as bird Watson family and bird, arts and
observer, writer and artist and science interests. Andrew Mellor, a
Louise Watson, one of Donald’s
daughters, gave us a wonderful
insight into her father and
quoted some key passages from
the book.
GCAT is supporting the project and
says it is ready to take on new
initiatives beyond the transport
project, the Glenkens Gazette and
The Catstrand.
Continued from front page... Around a
hundred people gathered in Dalry
Town Hall on Saturday 16th October
for a double launch; the inauguration
of the Dalry Bird Town Initiative and
the launch of Donald Watson’s last
book ‘In Search of the Harrier’.
It is a singular occasion when
books by father and son are
published, albeit posthumously.
The second edition of Jeff
Watson’s seminal work ‘The
Golden Eagle’ also being available
for the first time in Scotland. Des
Dalry Community Council
Repairs between the Police station and Allangibbon
bridge were successful, but side verges weren’t tidied
up and work not carried out on the corner, thereby it’s
foreseeable another accident could happen fairly soon.
It was confirmed that the petition against the quarry is
in circulation and suggested that a group of members
should go to D&G council to present it once signatures
have been collected.
Next meeting: Mon 6 Dec, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall.
New Galloway & Kells Community Council
Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING) chairman Ros
Hill reported on a meeting with D&G Council; it seems
unlikely that they would cover the annual expense of
the Town Hall’s upkeep.
The Treasurer report showed that after deductions, the
total (so far) for the Alternative Games (August 2010) is
£3696.45. Further monies are yet to come in.
Next meetings: Mon 13 Dec & Mon 10 Jan, 7.30pm, New
Galloway Town Hall.
Balmaclellan Community Council
Appreciation was expressed for Chris Bird, former chair
of the CC, who has resigned. A vacancy now exists on
the CC and various options are being considered.
There is a great deal to be done
and lots of funds to be raised.
All of this will take time. We
have already applied for funds
to employ a Project Development
Officer and to set up base in
Dalry; the first job to result from
the initiative. We hope for others
in the future.
Photo: Left to right - Vanessa
Halhead, Roger Crofts, Pam
Richardson, Cathy Agnew, Louise
Watson and Des Thompson
Repairs to ‘Old Mortality’ are likely to be delayed due
to sensitivity of materials to temperature and moisture.
However, the prospect of further damage due to winter
weather was noted.
The village hall committee reported on a busy
programme of events planned for participation and fun.
In the New Year, a Burns’ supper will be held on January
22nd and you are all welcome!
Next meeting: Mon 29 Nov, 7pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall.
Carsphairn Community Council
There are to be massive cuts in the council’s budget
next year, in line with national budget cuts. Cllr Duncan
advised that people will really start to see changes.
The volume and speed of timber lorries on the B729 was
found to be “shocking”, and very frightening when lorries
don’t move out of the centre of the road. When drivers
have been questioned, they say the verges are too soft. It
was agreed that the chair would pursue this issue.
The chair contacted D&G and Ayrshire roads dept.
regarding closure of the A713 for resurfacing and the
lack of prior notification to businesses and residents
effected. It was confirmed that Carsphairn will be
consulted next time the road is to be closed.
There will be no meeting Dec. The next meeting will be Mon
31 Jan, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall.
Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library.
Red Kites
Take Flight
Louise McClure from Dalmellington says:
“My husband Archie and I had a most
enjoyable time at the red kite open day at
Bellymack Hill. To be so close to those
beautiful birds was a day to remember.”
Many thanks to Louise for submitting this
wonderful photo of the day.
Glenkens Gazette
page 4
GLENKENS SCHOOLS REPORT
Day Out at Carlingwark
James Rees, P5, Carsphairn Primary: On
Tuesday, 28 September I got picked up in
Carsphairn at 8 o’clock in the morning to
go to Carlingwark. I got on the coach and I
could not wait to meet new friends and do the
activities. I did sailing first and that was the
best thing I did on the whole trip except my
partner Cara kept screaming. She thought I
was not driving properly. When we swapped
boats we had a race and I won the
race with Kyle from Dalry and that
proved I was driving properly!
After that we put our sails in for
lunch so we took our life jackets
and waterproofs off and went into
the dining room for lunch. When
we had finished lunch we went
back into our groups.
Rona Johnston, P5, Dalry Primary: My
group did sailing in the morning so
we went canoeing in the afternoon.
The canoes could fit 3 people in it,
Harvest Assembly
On Monday 27 September Dalry Nursery and
Primary held their annual Harvest Assembly.
P4/5/6 led the assembly, and entertained
family and friends, along with the Nursery
children.
Everybody donated harvest produce for our
Harvest table which later got split into bags
and delivered to members of the community.
Parents, staff and pupils did this in the
afternoon so a big thank you to everyone for
their help and support. We have had a lot
of kind thank you letters from people who
received bags… All in all, a very worth while,
rewarding and enjoyable event.
Indoor Athletics
On Wednesday 27th October Dalry P4 Pupils
took part in the Indoor Athletics Event at
Castle Douglas High School. Schools from
all over the region took part. The children
where split into 10 groups and had to cover
10 different stations, ranging from throwing,
running, balancing and jumping. Everyone
had a fantastic time!
my partners were Mia and Emily. My group
just couldn’t turn! We tried to turn but we
kept going backwards! Eventually we did
manage to turn, but it was still pretty hard.
Our instructor, a man called Ed tied all our
canoes together and we sailed to an island
and Fred was called Captain Fred! A man
named Paul showed us Splash Fu moves,
and he got a paddle and splashed us all with
freezing water. One of the moves he did
splashed my head and I was soaked!
After that we all went inside and unpacked.
We all had rooms and there were two boys
and two for the girls. I was sharing with
Emily, Cara, Kelsie, Amber-Lee, Poppy
and Mia so it was a pretty big room. Next
we went to a restaurant called the Scottish
Pantry and I had lasagne and a lovely
dessert.
Raphael Langford, P5, Kells Primary: The
next day we were doing orienteering in
Dalbeattie Forest. It was great fun! My
partner was Poppy. She and I worked
great as partners, but I did get stuck
in the mud a few times but in the end
I got out because Poppy came to the
rescue. We did get lost a few times too
and it was tough in the pouring rain.
When we were finished the men
announced the winners and it was
time to go home.
Fat Lamb Fundraiser
A group of children representing Kells, Dalry
and Carsphairn Primary Schools, attended
Wallets Mart in Castle Douglas on Tuesday 2
November to sell the fat lambs that had been
donated to the Glenkens schools. This was
part of a cluster fundraising event whereby
local farmers were asked to donate a lamb
for the pupils to sell, with all proceeds going
towards outdoor learning projects for the
three schools.
The staff were thrilled that this project
supports our aim to encourage learning
through real life, hands on experiences and
the children have been so enthused by the
project that they have barely noticed the
research, writing and collaborative skills they
have developed along the way! The pupils are
now all keen advocates for eating fresh, local
produce and they loved the experience of
getting into the ring and hearing the price they
got for their lamb! Now they have got the
taste for bartering we may have some future
entrepreneurs in our midst!
Kells,
Dalry
and
Carsphairn would like
to say a huge thank you
to all those who made
this exciting fundraiser
possible: Wallets Mart
for accommodating us
and the canteen staff
for supplying the snacks.
Robin Anderson coordinated the lambs
being sold on our behalf and looked after us
on the day. Andrew Gold who gave a pupil
the opportunity to introduce our lambs for
auction and then he showed us all how it was
done! Derek Thomson who collected and
delivered all our lambs to market and Kate and
Marcus Maxwell, whose powers of persuasion
encouraged everyone to support the project!!
Finally, a huge vote of thanks to all the farmers
who donated lambs and made this possible,
even though some of them no longer have
pupils in the Glenkens schools anymore.
On the day we raised an amazing £1150
from selling 15 lambs and with a donation
from Wallets Mart! This figure is set to rise
as several farmers are still to take their lambs
to market on our behalf. Thanks to the
wonderful support from the whole Glenkens
community this project has been a huge
success both educationally and financially and
is one that the children and staff were excited
and proud to be part of.
Kelly Devine, Depute Head Kells Primary
Glenkens Gazette
page 5
Y O U T H
Creative Explorers
The Creative Explorer art workshops
were delivered by Room 13 by lead
artist Emma Conder.
They were able to take place thanks to
funding from Scottish Natural Heritage, the
Royal Society of Edinburgh and Gaelforce,
with support from GCAT, Dumfries and
Galloway Council and Sarah Keast.
As well as drawing and painting we
undertook a variety of exercises and games
exploring the environment and spent time
alone on ‘solos’ thinking about wild places
and whether they matter. The group worked
with found material on our sites including
willow, colourful autumn leaves, forest
floor materials, sheep wool, mud and even
cow pats to create a variety of art works. It
is hoped that there will be an opportunity
to exhibit pictures of the art works soon.
Having had a taster of this style of art
workshop, there is an opportunity now for
the Glenkens schools to consider future
involvement with Creative Explorer and
Room 13 art events.
Emma Conder
YOUTH
PLAYERS
The Youth Players are looking forward
to taking to the CatStrand stage again on
Friday 3 December.
Their first productions of the new season
have been in rehearsal since September.
Most of the members are involved in
‘Ernie’s Incredible Illucinations’ by
Alan Ayckbourn, and some of the older
members will also perform two shorter
pieces ‘Kennel Club’ by David Muncaster
and ‘The Funeral’ by Laurie Allen.
All of the plays are comedies and the
evening promises to be great entertainment
for the audience and, judging by the
rehearsals, the cast too!
To get ready for the Festive Season,
coffee and mince pies will be served in
the CatStrand cafe at the end of the show.
Tickets are available from The CatStrand please book early to avoid disappointment.
The Youth Players will then meet once
more before Christmas on Sunday 5th
December at 3pm to make final plans for
the 2011 Drama Festival. It is planned to
enter two plays for the festival this time
around and rehearsals will commence in
earnest on Sunday 9th January.
U P D AT E
Teenspirit
Around 30 young people meet weekly
at The Catstrand to hang out with their
mates, play the wii, PS3 or watch movies
or go on trips.
We have had some spectacular trips to
Loch Ken water ski school– where Roddy
took over 20 kids out banana boating
followed by a BBQ. The group are always
up for trying new activities, next week we
are trying a youth nightclub in Ayr, and
soon we’ll be away to catch the latest Harry
Potter blockbuster.
After a year’s gap, Dalry once again
hosted a Halloween party for Glenkens
children at the Community Centre.
Generous support from Balmaclellan,
Carsphairn, Dalry and New Galloway
community councils ensured a great evening
of scary fun and games for all.
Friends of Dalry School (FODS), who
had organised the evening, did an amazing
job of decorating the community centre
and this, plus music provided by Robbie
Struthers, made a great backdrop to the
evening. The Fancy Dress Competition
was judged by Rhoda Rugg who had a very
difficult task choosing winners from such
an inventive parade.
FODS are already planning next year’s
party having snapped up cut-price
decorations the following week. Save
the sate – 31st October 2011!
Teenspirit meet every Tuesday night
from 7.30 to 9.30. If you are interested
in coming along or would like more
information call 01644 420374.
Halloween Hilarity
A ROARINGweatherSUCCESS
there was a good turn-out.
Carsphairn Kirk Social Committee
organised their village bonfire, where many
traditional games were played in the Village
Hall. The children then made their way
through the Village collecting money for
Children In Need.
Finally they arrived at the Stag Tea Garden
where the Guys, dressed as Goldilocks’
three Bears, ended up in the Bonfire
while the children enjoyed pudding and
sparklers.
Thanks go to Carsphairn Community
Garden Steering group, who donated the
sparklers for the evening.
Balmaclellan
provided
its
usual
wonderful fireworks display as well as
a great bonfire, soup, sandwiches and
even mulled wine. Despite the wet
The New Galloway bonfire night, organised
by John Thom, was a great success. John
orchestrated and funded the event through
his own endeavours, and funds raised on
the night were donated to the Combat
Stress charity in Hollybush.
A good turn-out for Carsphairn bonfire night
Breathe Easy Stewartry
Thursday 7th October in Castle
Douglas saw the launch
of the
Stewartry branch of the British Lung
Foundation’s
‘Breathe Easy’ local
support network.
The network supports those with
lung disease, especially respiratory,
(ie. Asthma, Emphysema, COPD,
bronchiectasis, etc).
The group is supported by the
Respiratory Managed Clinical Network
of Dumfries & Galloway NHS and by
the Public Health Office.
Posters are displayed throughout the
Glenkens, and meetings are held on
the first Thursday of the month in St
Ninians Church Hall, Castle Douglas,
2–4pm. Membership and entry are
free. We encourage partners, carers
and family to come along. For more
details call David on 01556
660093.
David Dearing, Secretary
Glenkens Gazette
page 6
The CatStrand: News & Events
Christmas Shopping Night, Wed 24 Nov, 5-8pm.
Calling all Santas! Choose from an exclusive seasonal
collection of locally made arts & crafts, gifts and cards,
while enjoying a glass of mulled wine and live musical
entertainment.
Exhibition: Threads in Fashion by the
Exploring Embroidery Group, runs to Thurs 9
Dec, CatStrand opening hours. Some of the work
produced from this wide-ranging topic includes
wallhangings, bags, dolls and textile jewellery.
The Pines, Thurs 2 Dec, 7.30pm, £10/£8.
A powerful young force in American roots
music. Exhilarating music from one of the
finest US bands to emerge in the last 10 years.
CatStrand Youth Players Show - Winter Season
Productions, Fri 3 Dec 7.30pm, £5/£3. The award
winning CatStrand Youth Players present ‘Ernie’s Incred
ible Illucinations’ along with another two peices, and the
evening includes coffee & mince pies after the show.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens told
by Mike Maran, Thurs 9 Dec, 7pm, £10/£8 (£6
under 16), ages 6+. Marvellous entertainment
and a fabulous treat for the whole family!
Film: Toy Story 3, Wed 29 Dec,
2pm, £5/£4. Toy Story 3 welcomes Woody,
Buzz and the whole gang back to the big
screen as Andy prepares to depart for college
and his loyal toys find themselves in daycare!
Exhibition: Anne Butler & Urpu Sellar,
Sat 11 Dec to Fri 28 Jan, CatStrand opening
hours.
Shivers Down the Spine - Storytelling Showcase,
Sat 15 Jan, 7.30pm, £7/£5. Tales to warm your heart and
tales to chill your soul; the Galloway Storytelling Collective
bring the best of the regions storytellers keeping the
traditional stories of Galloway alive.
Breakdance Double Bill: Rock-a-byeBboy and Box Fresh, Thurs 20 Jan,
7pm, £8/£5 Ages 7+. Random Aspekts and
Cypher Dance: “Four extremely talented
and impossibly acrobatic young men...”
Film: Coco Chanel & Igor
Stravinsky, Thurs 27 Jan, 7.30pm, £5/
£4. Paris 1913; Coco Chanel is infatuated
with the rich and handsome Boy Capel,
but she is also compelled by her work.
The Clog &
Shoe Workshop
Balmaclellan
Open 10am - 5pm weekdays
In winter please ring to arrange a visit.
Tel: 01644 420465
NEW ONLINE SHOP!
www.clogandshoe.co.uk
Regular events:
Exercise to Music, Mon, 10-11am, £4/£3.
Play it by Ear, every Monday during term
time, 1.30–2.30pm, £2 per adult/child + 50p
for each additional child. A weekly song, music
and storytelling session for pre-school children
and their parents or carers which now takes place every
Monday afternoon. Juice and biscuits included in the price.
Children’s Dance Classes with Margaret
Morris Movement, every Monday during term
time, 3.15-4pm pre school, 4-5pm 8-12 years, free.
Dance exercises are created to develop agility,
balance, co-ordination, elevation, flexibility and
posture.
Taking the Next Step in Computing, Mon, 5.30–
7.30pm.
Carers, Coffee & Chat, 1st Tue each month, 10am-12
noon, free. Transport may be available if required, please
phone 01644 420374.
Teen Spirit, every Tues, 7.30pm-9.30pm. A
weekly club for young people to hang out, chill,
listen to music, eat munchies, play console
games on a big screen, watch films and plan
trips and activities. If you are interested in
coming along contact Catherine on 01644 420374.
Taking the First Step in Computing, Wed 5.30pm7.30pm.
Gentle Yoga & Relaxation, Thurs, 10-11.15am, £30 per
6 week block.
Tone and Stretch, Fri 10am, £4/£3. A workout to tone
muscle and improve body shape followed by a stretch out
to ease those tired/ aching muscles; a great way to start
the day!
Afternoon Tea Club, 2nd Fri each month, 2pm, annual
membership £2. Minibus pick up from Balmaclellan &
Dalry by prior arrangement - call 01644 420374.
Saturday Art Club, 2nd Sat of every month,
10am–12noon, £4. Two-hour workshops run
by professional artists and teachers, offering
expert tuition and hands-on experience across
a range of fun filled visual arts and crafts
activities (age 5-12).
CatStrand Youth Players, every Sun
during term time, 3–5pm. The Youth division
of the Glenkens 73 Club. If you are interested
in acting, directing, costumes, sound, lighting,
stage management or any other aspect of drama or theatre,
then come along and have some fun (age 10-18).
FORREST ESTATE
FIREWOOD
Local suppliers of firewood logs,
kindling and chiminea wood.
Hardwood and so�wood
produced from sustainable,
FSC cer�ficated woodland.
Various quan��es available
for collec�on or bulk delivery.
Call for details 01644 430 230
office@forrestestate.com
Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP
Solicitors and Estate Agents
01556 503744
www.ggblaw.co.uk
OFFICES IN :
CASTLE DOUGLAS, DALBEATTIE
KIRKCUDBRIGHT & DUMFRIES
Glenkens Gazette
page 7
The CatStrand: News & Events
CHRISTMAS
SHOPPING
Why not shop locally this Christmas...
The CatStrand has a selection of local arts,
crafts, gifts and cards - perfect for that
personal touch at Christmas.
From locally crafted handmade soaps to
delicious
gourmet
chocolates;
beautiful,
practical glassworks to a variety of jewellery,
books and fine art by local artists and authors.
Come along and have a look, and support
your local economy this Christmas!
Allotment
Update
If anyone is interested in being
involved in a community garden
or would like an allotment
please get in touch.
So far we have had demand for
12 allotments and have space
for more. We have been given
the use of a fantastic field with
spectacular views over New
Galloway and more importantly
very fertile soil.
Please call 420374 or email
catherinep@catstrand.com
CatStrand
Cafe
LUNCHES
Mon - Fri
11am-2pm
NEW WINTER MENU
take-away food
available
CatStrand Wins Awards
The CatStrand has scooped up two prestigious
awards this season.Both are wonderful achievements
illustrating that the venue is operating to its greatest
potential in a variety of areas.
a Bronze, Silver or Gold award based on their
level of achievement.
(To find out more visit www.green-business.co.uk)
The CatStrand is the winner of the Culture Champion
Award in the Arts & Leisure Category of the first
Dumfries & Galloway Life People of the Year Awards.
(To find out more visit www.dgblife.co.uk)
The venue joined the Green Tourism Business Scheme
(GTSB) last year in support of sustainability and green
issues and has been awarded Gold in its first grading!
The GTBS is the national sustainable tourism
certification scheme for the UK. Originally developed
in partnership with Visit Scotland, it is now the
only certification scheme validated by Visit Britain,
through the International Centre for Responsible
Tourism (ICRT).
Businesses opting to join Green Tourism are assessed
against a rigorous set of criteria covering a range
of areas such as energy and water efficiency, waste
mmanagement,
biodiversity
and
more.
Those
businesses that meet the required standard receive
THE BUS : GLENKENS TRANSPORT INITIATIVE
UPDATE ON CONDITIONS OF USE: We have recently updated the terms and conditions of use for the mini bus. If
you are a user group it is still £10 to hire it for the first six hours and then £3 per hour after that. The fuel charge
remains at 40p per mile for the time being. So why not use the bus for a Xmas or New Year outing? To register
as a user group costs a one-off payment of £20 – anyone wanting a copy of the latest conditions of use or who is
thinking of setting up a user group please contact Keith.
Another bus is now the only item on GTI’s
WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE (REGD. ROUTE):
Xmas list – we would obviously like a new
CONCESSIONARY BUS PASSES ARE ACCEPTED ON THIS ROUTE, SO PLEASE MAKE one but that depends on how much money
USE OF THIS EXTRA SERVICE
we can raise. If you know a pot of gold that
Timings are as follows:
The return journey :
can be explored please don’t keep the idea to
1900 Dept Dalry (Underhill)
2045 Departs Castle Douglas (Tesco) yourself!
1910 New Galloway
2047 Castle Douglas (Market Street)
A BIG THANK YOU AND HAPPY XMAS to all
1925 Mossdale
2052 Townhead of Greenlaw
those people who have contributed in any way
1935 Laurieston
2100 Laurieston
to making 2010 another good year for GTI. Over
3,000 passengers carried, 800 voluntary hours
1940 Townhead of Greenlaw
2110 Mossdale
driven, and 14,000 miles travelled means we
1947 Castle Douglas (Market Street)
2125 New Galloway
are one of the best transport initiatives in SW
1950 Arrive Castle Douglas (Tesco)
2135 Arrive Dalry
Wcotland – thank
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BOOK THE COMMUNITY-BUS OR IF YOU WANT
For further info &
you!
ANY MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT KEITH COOPER, GTI
Keith Cooper,
to buy tickets visit
ADMINISTRATOR ON 01644 420374.
GTI Administrator www.catstrand.com
or call 01644 420 374
Glenkens Gazette
page 8
LOCAL
HISTORY
William Macmath, Ballad Collector of Glenkens
As the Festive Season approaches it is
sobering to reflect that while Hogmanay
was well celebrated in the Glenkens,
Christmas was not.
Since there was no scriptural authority for
the date of Christ’s birth, presbyterians
gave it a body-swerve. However,
irrespective of how folk marked the passing
of the winter solstice and the return of the
light, there would be an accompaniment
of story-telling and ballad-singing in the
home, the ‘big hooses’ and the hostelries
of the glen.
Galloway had the reputation of being a
musical place and one man who devoted
much of his life to the preservation of
ballad heritage in particular was William
Macmath (1844-1922). Born in Brighton
to Scottish parents he spent much of his
childhood at Airds of Kells, home of his
maternal grandparents and his beloved
Auntie Jeanie, aka Miss Jane Webster.
Jeanie ended her days in Crossmichael.
Of Airds, where the Dee meets the Ken,
it was said that “the hand of Nature has
shut it out from almost all communication
with the world: it seems intended as the
nursery or dwelling of a poet”, as indeed,
it had been, for Robert Burns visited to
pay homage to the memory of Glenkens
poet, John Lowe.
Macmath always referred to himself
as “a Stewartry man”, visiting almost
annually until a few months before he
died. He will be known to some as the
agent of Kirkcudbright artist E A Hornel,
purchasing books, notably on Burns, for
the splendid library at Broughton House.
He had a day job as an Edinburgh lawyer
but ballads were his passion and these
he collected and sent to the American
scholar Francis James Child who, based
at Harvard, was compiling his ambitious
The English and Scottish Popular Ballads,
the first volume of which appeared at
Christmas 1882; four more followed.
William was well placed to perform this
(often laborious) service. His mother,
his aunt and four surviving younger
sisters were all ballad singers, as well
as collectors of tales and riddles. He,
apparently, did not sing, but he was known
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to recite a ballad as a party piece.
Though undoubtedly interested in the oral
tradition, much of his work was on ballad
manuscript collections, some of which
he secured for Harvard. In truth, despite
their mutual interest in the rambunctious,
evocative, emotional and violent world of
balladry, both he and Child often appear
like a couple of dry sticks in severe need
of combustion. But it is now largely due
to William that we know anything at all
about a Glenkens tradition, a precious
legacy well worth acknowledgement.
He was very interested in the historical
origins of individual ballads, more so than
Child. Believing the latter to be overly
concerned with questions of arrangement
and classification, he once, rightly, threw
Child’s words back at him: “Strictness is
offensive as well as useless. Perhaps it is
impossible. Ballads are not like plants or
insects, to be classified to a hair’s breadth”.
He understood that ballads arose from the
folk themselves and thus were as elusive,
magical and mysterious as their creators,
that ballads on a printed page were dead
things, whereas in performance they were
exhilarating and entertaining, familiar yet
unpredictable, often offering essential
cultural and social reinforcement. He
was emphatic that the ballad’s integrity
must be respected; he totally opposed
the ‘improvement’ favoured by Walter
Scott and others, not to mention deliberate
fakery and modern intrusions.
From Jeannie Webster he acquired
an excellent version of the haunting
Lord Randall which she had learned 50
years earlier from Mary Williamson, a
nursemaid at Airds; another was a variant
of Johnie Scot which she had heard from
Miss Jane Hannay, Newton Stewart. In
all, through her brother, she contributed
sixteen ballads to Child’s collection.
William’s sister, Minnie, supplied eight of
the scarce ‘ballad airs from manuscript’.
By the late nineteenth century the tradition
was dying and the tunes had often been
forgotten. From the recitation of Mary
Cochrane, Abbeyyard, Crossmichael, he
secured a lively version of The Broom
of Cowdenknowes. In 1883 Macmath
obtained a copy of The Lochmaben Harper
from the Rev. George Murray of Greenock
who had it from his father, George Murray
of Troquhain, minister of Balmaclellan
1838 to 1881, who had taken it down from
the singing of a sad woman in his parish
named Sarah Rae. A true find came from
Robert Trotter of the Glenkens literary
family who communicated two verses of a
Galloway ballad that had several different
titles but was the inspiration for Scott’s
Lochinvar who “came out of the west”:
They askéd him and speiréd him,
And unto him did say,
‘O, saw ye ocht o’ an arméd band,
As ye cam on your way?’
He jested them and jeeréd them,
And thus to them did say,
‘O, I saw nocht but a fairy troop,
As I rode on my way’.
The ‘ocht’, the ‘nocht’ and the humour are
convincingly Galloway. It is a pity that not
more of it has survived.
There is no doubt that Macmath was
a prickly character. When some of his
favourite trees were cut down at Airds
he never returned. A lawyer colleague
reported that when his company placed
William in charge of such activities as
rent collections, roups or sales, he was not
prepared to suffer fools gladly, nor was he
“so popular as some of us with those of
the company assembled who set at least as
much store on the attendant refreshments
as on the business of the day”. He died
a bachelor; a cousin reporte that the
Macmaths were not a marrying family.
A John Macmath may have compensated
by producing a largish family at the
Woodhead lead mines at Carsphairn, but
the Galloway Macmaths were otherwise
on the decline; there are now more in the
USA than in Scotland. William’s labours
in balladry undoubtedly made many
people happy but not as many as a distant
relation, the most famous of the family,
who will almost certainly appear on our
TV screens this Christmas. Ginger Rogers
was born Virginia Katherine Macmath!
Happy Holidays!
Ted Cowan
GLENKENS
MEDICAL PRACTICE
General Medical &
Dispensing Services
The Surgery
High Street
New Galloway
FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL
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01644 420234
Glenkens Gazette
page 9
C L U B
C O R N E R
NEWS FROM THE STEWARTRY CAMERA CLUB
Morag Paterson was judge for the ‘Open’
competition, the first competition of the
new session.
The variety and quality of the 40 entries
provided her with a difficult task. Her
approach was greatly appreciated as she
discussed each of the prints in detail
suggesting what she considered would
improve the pictures and recommending
what members should watch out for in
future images.
She commented on framing and mounting
and how this might help an image. Morag
was obviously impressed with the entries as
her favourite comment of the night was: “I
really, really like this!”
The Best Landscape was ‘Winter’ by
Glenkens resident John Houfe. The Best
Monochrome was ‘The Morning Washing’
by John Smith. The Most Innovative Print
was shared by Alec Blackadder with ‘Plaited
Mane’ and George Wishart with ‘Bow Blur’.
George had a great night and also won The
Best Print with ‘Dead-eyes at Rest’ and the
best handicap score. Both these pictures,
taken at Bristol Docks, Morag described as
inspiring.
Morag and her husband, Ted Leeming, are
running a special photography course in
November for 10 members of the club. It
is to be hoped that this will raise the club
standards even further. Keep watching!
For further information contact Mary McIlvenna 01644
420613 or George Wishart 01557 870090.
Morag Paterson with the Best Print ‘Dead-eyes at Rest’
- photograph courtesy of John Smith
S t e wa r t r y B i r d Wa t c h e r s
Stewartry Birdwatchers tarted their winter
lecture season ‘with a bang’ when Keith
Kirk, one of our Countryside Rangers,
spoke so about the wildlife of Dumfries &
Galloway, illustrating his talk with his excellent
photographs.
A short video of the ‘Burnie Baker’ dipping
and feeding in a local burn began the evening’s
entertainment. But how many in the audience
knew beforehand that this was a local name
for the Dipper? Presumably called this
because its white front looks like a baker’s
apron and because the bird nests and feeds
around burns.
Surely the most attractive of winter waders is
the Sanderling, with its pure white underparts
and bright pearly grey back and wings, which
scurries along the shoreline on its short black
legs like a little clockwork toy dodging the
waves. During his talk Keith mentioned and
showed photographs of two other waders.
First he told of the decline of that summer
migrant, the Common Sandpiper, around
Loch Ken, and then he said that the numbers
of Whimbrels passing through Galloway every
spring and autumn on the way to and from
their northern tundra breeding grounds had
greatly increased.
Memorable images shown by Keith included
the Greenland White-fronted Geese in flight,
which winter in the Loch Ken area, clearly
showing the distinctive black markings on
their bellies; the Black Guillemot flying across
Portpatrick harbour with its feet splayed out to
show off their brilliant and unique shade of
red; the white Buzzard which has nested in the
Loch Ken area for several years now and has
so often been mistaken for a Snowy Owl when
perched on a fence post close to the A713 road
near Parton; the colourful Waxwings feeding
on equally colourful yellow rowan berries; and
the close-up of the Nuthatch, a bird which
was first noted on many local birdtables only
in the early 1990’s, and now nests throughout
the region – a real success story when so many
other species are in decline.
Of course birds of prey also featured in Keith’s
talk including some superb photographs of
the Ospreys which nested at Threave this year
and successfully reared three young, as did the
Ospreys which nested near Wigtown and
near Caerlaverock. The viewing platform at
Threave is probably the nearest members of
the public can get legally to any osprey nest
in Britain. Keith also had several clever shots
taken at the feeding station near Laurieston
showing how acrobatic Red Kites are and, in
addition, one of another Red Kite elsewhere
in the area carrying off a Mallard duckling
showing, unfortunately, that they do not only
feed on carrion.
At the next meeting on Thursday 9th December
in New Galloway School at 7.30p.m. the
speaker will be Brian Morrell, who works at the
Wildlife and Wetlands Trust at Caerlaverock,
and his talk is entitled “Wild geese in the realm
of the ice bear”. All are welcome. Next year
starts on January 13th with another excellent
and prize-winning photographer, retired
Dumfries GP Edmund Fellowes, on ‘Some
Northern Birds’. Contacts: Geoff Packard; 01556
670466, Peter Swan; 01556 502144, oan Howie; 01644
430 226.
Walking Groups
The Glenkens Ramblers meet on Mondays
for a moderate walk taking around two
hours. The Glenkens Walkers meet on
Wednesdays for an easier walk taking around
90 minutes. Both groups meet at 1.30pm
outside the Bank of Scotland in Dalry. Lists
of walks are displayed in shops in Dalry and
New Galloway.
Contacts: John & Isobel on 430 539, Gerry
on 420 852, Peter on 420 419 and Elizabeth
on 430 581.
Ramblers at the Bruce Stone above Loch Trool, which
commemorates the victory by Bruce and his army over the
English on the banks of the Loch. We had a great day
walking the 7 miles around the Loch and had our picnic
lunch at this spot.
Glenkens
Hair Studio
Duke Street, New Galloway
Eileen thanks all her customers for their
support throughout the year and wishes
everyone a Merry Christmas and a
Happy New Year.
Christmas and New Year
Opening Hours:
THURS 16 Dec, 9am – 6.30pm
(Gent’s Barber Shop 5 - 6.30pm)
FRI 17 Dec, 9am – 5pm
SAT 18 Dec, 9am – 1pm
THURS 23 Dec, 9am – 6pm
(Gent’s Barber Shop 5 - 6pm)
FRI 24 Dec, 9am – 5pm
THURS 30 Dec, 9am – 6pm
(Gent’s Barber Shop 5 - 6pm)
FRI 31 Dec, 9am – 5pm
CLOSED first week of 2011.
Open as normal from Thursday
13th January 2011.
PLEASE BOOK EARLY FOR
CHRISTMAS APPOINTMENTS
Tel: (01644) 420616
Glenkens Gazette
page 10
ALEX
FERGUSSON
MSP
FOR GALLOWAY
AND UPPER
NITHSDALE
Holds regular advice surgeries at:
2 St ANDREW STREET, CASTLE
DOUGLAS
on the second Friday of every month from 5pm
Telephone free on 0800 028 7260
for an appointment or to make any
alternative arrangement’
You can visit Alex’s website at
www.alexfergusson.org.uk
or contact him by e-mail at
alex.fergusson.msp@scottish.parliament.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 11
Coping with
Christmas
A few tips from Dietician &
Nutritionist Lorna Willock
1 - Try not to feel as stuffed as the
turkey! Our stomach works in a similar
way to a cement mixer. If we overfill,
it will not mix the contents properly
leading to the misery of indigestion.
Stop, let the food settle and then carry
on if you’re still hungry.
2 - Try to avoid the in-between heavy
snacks like nuts and sweets. If you do
feel like a snack have some fresh fruit,
eg satsumas.
3 - Watch the alcohol intake. It’s
easy to overindulge in the holidays,
especially if ‘family measures’ are
around! To combat the dehydrating
effects of alcohol have a glass of water
along with the wine or spirits
4 - A walk in the earlier part of the
day, while the light is good, will lift
one’s mood and get body metabolism
into action.
5 - Ensure you still have your ‘5 a day’
though it may be turkey broth, brussel
sprouts and mandarin oranges!
6 - If eating out and no space left for
the mince pies or mints then take them
home for another day.
Merry Christmas!
Pensions – Savings – Investments
Retirement & Inheritance Tax Planning
Life Assurance – Protection – Mortgages
For advice on any of the above,
or to review your existing arrangements,
contact your local adviser:
Brian J. Edgar DipPFS
Area Office: Tannoch, Newton Stewart Road,
New Galloway DG7 3RT
Tel. 01644 420288
Central Office,
61 Victoria Street,
Newton Stewart DG8 6NL
Tel 01671 403080 Fax 01671 402549
e-mail - brian.edgar@marrfinancial.co.uk
web - www.marrfinancial.co.uk
Marr Financial Services is an Appointed Representative of Sesame Ltd
YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE
Glenkens Gazette
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KENBRIDGE HOTEL
New Galloway
New Galloway
Open 7 Days : Beauti
Beautiful Riverside Location
Golf Club
M E A L S S E RV E D
12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm
www.nggc.co.uk
TRADITIONAL LOG FIRE
bed and breakfast
en suite accommodation
01644 420 211
Dalry
Domestic and
Agricultural
Fencing
01644 430 495 (Peter)
or 07767 795 498
(Jonathan)
v 01644 420737 v
mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk
Buggies now available for hire
VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS
W BONE
THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE
www.kenbridgehotel.co.uk
FHB Fencing
Founded 1902
WHB JEEPS
THE GARAGE, DALRY
PETROL & DIESEL SALES
SERVICE & REPAIRS
MOTs, TYRES, BATTERIES
ALL AT COMPETITIVE PRICES
OPEN 8.30AM - 6.00PM (SIX DAYS)
10AM - 6PM SUNDAYS
SHOP • SANDWICH BAR • LOTTERY
Tel: 01644 430208 Fax: 01644 430669
email: jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk
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
Glenkens Gazette
USEFUL NUMBERS:
● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000
● Local Police: 0845 600 5701
● Crimestoppers: 0845 555 111
Dalry Library Opening Times
Tue: 2 - 4.30pm then 5.30 - 7.30pm
Fri: 11:15am - 1:15pm then 2 - 4.30pm
23 mobile library stops - to find out
where and when call 430 234
TIMES OF WORSHIP
IN THE GLENKENS
CHURCH OF SCOTLAND
Sundays: Balmaclellan - 12noon 1st;
Carsphairn 10.30am 1st 2nd 3rd 4th (Jan); Dalry
- 12noon 1st 2nd 3rd 4th (Jan); Kells - 10.30am
2nd 3rd 4th (Jan)
Special Services & Events
3 Dec, 7.30pm: Quiz Night, Balmaclellan,
Village Hall. 4 Dec, 7.30pm: Carsphairn’s
Got Talent, Lagwyne Hall. 12 Dec, 6.30pm:
Carols by Candlelight with Glenkens
Church Choir, Kells Church. 22 Dec, 5pm:
Carsphairn Church Community Christmas
Service & Childrens’ Party. 24 Dec, 10.30am:
Watchnight Service, Carsphairn Church. 25
Dec, 10.30am: Christmas Day Family Service,
Kells Church. 26 Dec, 10.30am: United
Service with Choir, Dalry Church
SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL
CHURCH (C of E)
St Margaret’s, New Galloway: Holy
Communion - 10.30am every Sun &
Wed
CATHOLIC CHURCH SERVICES
Gatehouse of Fleet: Sat, 6pm
Kirkcudbright: Sun, 9.30am
Dalbeattie: Sun, 11am
St Ninian’s Episcopal Church, Castle
Douglas: Rev McFadden - 01557 330687
CARSPHAIRN
42ND ANNUAL
BURNS SUPPER
Thursday 20th January
7.30 for 8pm
Immortal Memory
Proposer:
Grierson Dunlop
To Book Your Tickets
tel. Jean Gibbon (Sec)
01644 460244
Fresh turkeys, copas free
range turkeys, geese,
ducks, etc.
Now taking orders for
Christmas!
Don’t forget to order your New
Year roasts & steak pies...
See us at Dalry Farmers Market
on the 2nd Sat each month.
T H CARSON, THE CROSS, MILL
ST, DALBEATTIE
01556 610384
page 12
GLENKENS DIARY FOR ALL EVENTS
NOVEMBER
Wed 24, Galloway Gatherings Lecture
Series, 2-4pm, The CatStrand, see p8
Wed 24, Christmas Shopping Night, 5-8pm,
The CatStrand
Thu 25, Film: A Single Man, 7:30pm, The
CatStrand
Sat 27, The Sofa Show featuring Fred
MacAulay & Parrot, 8.30pm, The CatStrand
Mon 29, Discovery Film Festival – Shorts for
Wee Ones, 1.30pm, The CatStrand
Mon 29, Balmaclellan CC, Balmaclellan
Village Hall
DECEMBER
Wed 1, Galloway Gatherings Lecture Series:
speaker Stuart McCulloch, 2-4pm, The
CatStrand
Wed 1, GTI bus trip to Ayr – xmas shopping
or the Races, see p9
Thurs 2, The Pines, 7.30pm, The CatStrand
Fri 3, CatStrand Youth Players, The
CatStrand
Sat 4, Carsphairn’s Got (Even More) Talent,
7.30pm, Lagwyne Hall
Sun 5, CatStrand Youth Players final prexmas meeting, 3pm, see p5
Mon 6, Dalry CC, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall
Wed 8, Galloway Gatherings Lecture Series:
speaker Ted Cowan, 2-4pm, see p8, The
CatStrand
runs until Thurs 9, Exhibition: Threads
in Fashion, CatStrand opening hours, The
CatStrand
Thurs 9, A Christmas Carol by Charles
Dickens, 7pm, The CatStrand
Thu 9, SOC Talk with Brian Morrell, see p9
Sat 11 Dec to Fri 28 Jan, Exhibition: Anne
Butler & Urpu Sellar, CatStrand opening
hours, The CatStrand
Mon 13, Kells CC, 7.30pm, New Galloway
Town Hall
Tue 14, Kells Primary School Play, 1.302.30pm, see p2
Wed 29, Film: Toy Story 3, 2pm, The
CatStrand
JANUARY
Mon 10, Kells CC, 7.30pm, New Galloway
Town Hall
Thu 13, SOC Talk with Edmund Fellowes,
see p9
Sat 15, Shivers Down the Spine Storytelling Showcase, 7.30pm, The
CatStrand
Thurs 20, Breakdance Double Bill, 7pm,
The CatStrand
Thu 20, Carsphairn Burns Supper,
7.30pm, see ad below
Sat 22, Balmaclellan Burns Supper
Thurs 27, Film: Coco Chanel & Igor
Stravinsky, 7.30pm, The CatStrand
Mon 31, Carsphairn CC, 7pm, Lagwyne
Hall
FEBRUARY
Sat 5, ’73 Drama Burns Supper, 7.30pm,
The CatStrand
REGULAR EVENTS:
Glenkens Ramblers, 1.30pm, outside the
Bank, Dalry
Scouts: Mon, 7–8.30pm, New Galloway
Scout Hut
Mother & Toddlers Group: Tues 9.4511.15am, New Galloway Town Hall
Beavers: Tues, 6.30–7.45pm, New Galloway
Scout Hut
Glenkens Walking Group, 1.30pm, outside
the Bank, Dalry
Stewartry Camera Club: Wed, 7.30pm, The
Tolbooth, Kirkcudbright
Mossdale Painters, Wed, 9.30am, Mossdale
Village Hall
Cub Scouts: Wed, 6.45–8pm, New Galloway
Scout Hut
Lions Club monthly quiz, alternating
between The CatStrand & Lochinvar Hotel.
For further info contact Andrew Frew on 420
323.
The CatStrand, New Galloway (see p6&7)
Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am
Play it by Ear: every Mon during term time,
1.30-2.30pm
Children’s Dance Classes with Margaret
Morris Movement: every Mon during term
time, 4-5pm (ages 8-12)
Taking the Next Step in Computing: Mon,
5.30–7.30pm
Carers Coffee & Chat, starts Tues 1st Dec,
10am-12noon
Teen Spirit: every Tues during term time,
7.30-9.30pm
Taking the First Step in Computing: Wed,
5.30-7.30pm
Gentle Yoga & Relaxation, Thurs, 1011.15am
Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri each month,
2pm
Baby Reflexology, drop-in last Fri each
month 10am-12noon
Saturday Art Club, 2nd Sat each month,
10am–12noon
Tone & Stretch, Fri 10am, £4/£3
Catstrand Youth Players, every Sun during
term time from 3-5pm, see p5
Glenkens Youth Choir, Sun, 5-6pm
CatStrand Playstation Tournaments: contact
The CatStrand for info.
Dalry Community Centre
(for info contact Sarah on 430 393)
Glenkens Playgroup: Mon-Fri, 9.15-11.45am
Paint & Art: Mon 1.30-4.30pm
Ballroom & Latin Dance drop-in class: Mon
7.30-9pm, £5
Ballroom & Latin Dance course: Mon 910pm, for more info tel Sam Hood on 01644
420672
Good Neighbours Club: Tues 2pm
Kickback Martial Arts: Tues & Thurs 7-9pm,
both adults & children welcome
Glenkens Mother & Toddlers: Wed 1.30-3pm
Craft Class: Thurs 2-4pm
Brownies: Wed 5.30-6.45pm
Guides:Wed 5.30-7pm
WRITE FOR THE GAZETTE! Submit events,
activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & techniques, fiction,
photos, ads or ideas... If you have a submission, contact Sarah Ade on
07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk
FEB/MAR COPY DEADLINE: Mon 3 January
Printing the Glenkens Gazette
for the Glenkens Community
& Arts Trust is just one way of
expressing our commitment to the
communities we work in.
www.standardlife.com
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<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> </span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p>
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GLENKENS GAZETTE
news from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry
February/March 2011
ISSUE 62
CHAMPIONS!
FREE
The CatStrand has won
the Culture Champion
award at the Dumfries &
Galloway Life People of
the Year 2010 awards.
adaptability; its ability to be
so many things at once, from
conference venue to theatre,
sports hall to cinema makes
it a hub of activity in a rural
area where other similar
resources are so limited.
This is the first year of these awards
which have been set up to recognise
people and places around the region
that play a vital role in making our
area such a wonderful place both to
live in and to visit.
The CatStrand has also
proved itself in the area of
environmental sustainability
by achieving Gold Award
status in the Green Tourism
Business Scheme. Validated
by Visit Britain, businesses
Photo: Mark Jardine, from award
opting to join Green Tourism
sponsors Roucan Loch Crematorium, presenting
the award to Cathy Agnew, GCAT chairman.
are assessed against a
rigorous set of criteria
conception, was also nominated
covering a range of areas such as
for two awards in 2010 - the first
energy and water efficiency, waste
was Leader’s Rural Community
management, biodiversity and more.
Champion, for which there was no
This award makes the Catstrand one
overall winner but four champions
of only three venues in Dumfries
were recognised, and the second
& Galloway to achieve the Gold
was Dumfries & Galloway Life’s
standard.
People of the Year 2010 awards
under the title of Community
Brian Edgar, who has been involved
Champion. Well done Brian!
with The CatStrand since its
The award highlighted the vision,
purpose and hard work that has gone
into making the The CatStrand a
reality.
The CatStrand’s success is down to
a number of key elements, among
which are the hard work of the
Glenkens Community & Arts Trust
(GCAT) in getting the project up
and running, the continuing input
of a dedicated team of tireless staff
and volunteers, and the venue’s
Curling at Mossroddick by Liz Peacock
TWICE THE ICE
For the second time in 2010 Mossroddick loch,
outside Dalry, has been host to local curlers.
Ice at the High Bridge of Ken by Steve McCallie
Up until January of last year the loch had not had ice thick enough to
curl on for 24 years. Then, at the end of December, the ice was once
again ready to be polished into a curling rink where young and old
alike could enjoy a foray out onto the ice.
Are our winters getting colder? The ice this year which built up at the
High Bridge of Ken would suggest that might be the case... Perhaps
curling will become a regular event on our local lochs once more!
IN THIS ISSUE
- Dalry Quarry Update
- GCAT Restructure
- School News
- CatStrand Highlights
- Local History
- Winter Wildlife
...and much more
A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve
www.glenkensgaze�e.com
Glenkens Gazette
page 2
ANOTHER
FEATHER
IN THE CAP
Our quest for funds for the next
phase of Dalry Bird Town has been
given a major boost by an award
from the Big Lottery’s Awards for
All scheme. The award of £10,000
will kick start the next steps of the
initative.
We are now applying for funds to
employ a Project Development Officer
for two years, hopefully from April
2013. This will allow development
of the project for the purchase and
refurbishment of Barone and its
grounds and to establish the Dalry
Bird Festival as an annual event.
We hope to know the results of our
applications sometime in March.
We are planning the first Dalry Bird
Festival for the autumn of 2011.
We hope to have guided bird walks,
talks from bird and arts experts,
demonstrations of arts and birdrelated activities and art exhibitions. If
you have ideas please let me know.
Roger Crofts,
roger@dodin.idps.co.uk
QUARRY QUERY
Dalry Community Council’s
petition against the proposed
quarrying operation was handed
over to Patsy Gilroy, who is
Chair of the Stewartry Area
Committee, by a group of Dalry
residents at the last full Council
meeting in December.
The petition asks Dumfries &
Galloway Council to re-examine its
provisional decision to allow the
quarry and to ensure that any such
decisions are only taken after lawful
consultation procedures have been
carried out.
The petition was signed by 301
people, 207 of whom are Dalry
residents. This represents the
majority of the adult population of
the village. In addition 39 people
indicated their support for the
petition on the Facebook website.
Members of the delegation from
Dalry told Ms Gilroy that they found
the Council’s decision in principle to
allow a housing company to extract
and remove 40,000 tonnes of rock
from a prominent site next to the
School and the childrens’ playpark
to be inexplicable. Mention of this
quarrying operation was only added
to the planning application to build
houses after public consultation had
taken place. This was a material
change to the application about
which the community had a lawful
right to be consulted.
Patsy Gilroy said in her letter
of acknowledgement that the
Community Council would receive
a substantive reply in due course.
She confirmed that the petition and
the Council’s response to it would
be circulated to all members of the
Council.
The Community Council hopes that
at least one of the local Councillors
will have the courage to ask for
this to be discussed by the full
Council. After all, it is not every
day that 300 people from a small
community put their names to a
petition questioning the legality of
the Council’s actions.
NOTICEBOARD
March 12 - Glenkens and District Music Club: Quintet
Zambra (wind quintet), 8pm, Dalry Town Hall.
Committee, which was then matched by Balmaclellan
Community Council.
Abbas Rest Orphanage Coffee Morning - On
October 30th a very successful coffee morning was
held in Dalry Town Hall in aid of Abbas Rest orphans.
The money was used to equip the hall with full sets of
crockery, cutlery and utensils (120 of each), as well
as new tables, making it a more attractive venue for
hire. If you would like to hire the hall, please get in
touch with either Jim Kirkpatrick (420 604) or Neil
Cawthorne (420 603).
We would like to thank all
the people who supported
us with their presence,
as well as donations of
money, raffle prizes,
baking and the sales
tables, and all the willing
helpers who served
refreshments and helped
on the stalls.
£760 was raised which
will help towards buying
the maize required which
will be more expensive
this year. As they need
over 1,000 bags weighing
50 kilos each to keep the children fed all year, the
money raised is badly needed. Thank you once again
for your support, it is greatly appreciated - Jean, Avril
& Barbara.
Balmaclellan Village Hall Committee has been
awarded a grant of £1000 from the Stewartry Area
The Senior Citizens of Kells Parish enjoyed an
excellent Christmas Lunch at the Ken Bridge Hotel on
Saturday 11th December as guests of New Galloway
Community Council.
Entertainment was provided by Tommy Edgar and the
festive raffle prizes were largely provided from the
proceeds of the donations collected in Hopkins Shop
throughout the year.
Glenkens Gazette
page 3
GCAT - A FRESH NEW FACE
In 2010, the Board and
staff at GCAT had a ‘light
bulb’ moment.
This re-think was prompted by some
excellent work with an external
consultant which encouraged the
board of GCAT, collectively, to
realise that we are GCAT – the
Glenkens Community & Arts Trust
– rather than any one of the projects
supported.
The organisations supported at
present are:
- Glenkens Transport Initiative
(GTI) – the invaluable ‘Bus’.
- The CatStrand – our wonderful
Arts, Community & Visitor
Centre.
- Glenkens Gazette –
the community news publication
you are currently reading.
- Dalry Bird Town - the
newest project, currently
attracting a lot of attention.
In GCAT’s 10th anniversary year,
we can look back on a decade of
experience and learning which has
provided us with a network of good
contacts; and an even more
important network of enthusiastic
and knowledgeable volunteers.
the community who have ideas for
projects in the Glenkens. Contact us
via email – gcatnip@catstrand.com
Gillian Khosla, Glenkens Community & Arts
Trust New Ideas & Projects (GCATNIP)
We are an appropriately
registered company and
have charitable status. We
are registered for VAT and
are experienced in corporate
governance. And we have an
appetite to continue working
towards our aim; to unite the
communities of the Glenkens.
We have, therefore, restructured
the organisation - see the flow
chart to get an idea of the
structure.
We look forward to hearing
from all and any members of
Dalry Community Council
Balmaclellan Community Council
A McKay tendered his resignation as both chairperson
and as a councilor due to personal reasons; a vote of
thanks was recorded for all his work.
Another great Christmas lunch was held at The Ken
Bridge Hotel for Balmaclellan senior citizens. Many
thanks to Jane Brayshaw of the CC and Dave and Sue
Paterson and staff for all their hard work.
The Glenkens childrens’ Christmas party was a great
success and could not have taken place without the
involvement of Chris and Kay Bird, presents funded by
Balmaclellan CC, food by Dave and Sue Paterson and
Jane McQueen, and the support local families.
Regarding recent work at Allangibbon Bridge, it was
agreed to request that improved signage be erected
indicating the severity of the bend from the north.
Next meeting: Mon 7 Feb, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall.
New Galloway & Kells Community Council
It was reported that Scottish Power had closed the
footbridges between Dundeugh and Kendoon due to
‘accelerated levels’ of corrosion that made them unsafe for
public use. However, following national media coverage,
Scottish Power announced that they hoped that repair
work could start early in 2011.
Next meeting: Mon 28 Feb, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall.
Carsphairn Community Council
Kathryn Thacker resigned as administrative secretary
due to changes in personal circumstances.
Concerns were raised over Scottish Power’s proposal to
increase the water flow from Loch Doon via the Water
of Ken into Loch Ken, etc. This point was also raised by
Carsphairn CC and further information is being sought.
Right to Buy legislation has been extended to buildings
as well as land. A house in the Salutation is up for
sale as well as one of the flats. Discussion outlined
that a community can register a right to buy if land or
buildings have gone on the market if good reason is
given for public interest.
Next meeting: Mon 14 Feb, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall.
Next meeting: Mon 31 Jan, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall.
Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library.
CatStrand
Cafe
LUNCHES: Mon to
Fri, 11am-2pm
The Clog &
Shoe Workshop
Balmaclellan
Open 10am - 5pm weekdays
In winter please ring to arrange a visit.
Tel: 01644 420465
NEW ONLINE SHOP!
www.clogandshoe.co.uk
FORREST ESTATE
FIREWOOD
Local suppliers of firewood logs,
kindling and chiminea wood.
Hardwood and so�wood
produced from sustainable,
FSC cer�ficated woodland.
Various quan��es available
for collec�on or bulk delivery.
Call for details 01644 430 230
office@forrestestate.com
Glenkens Gazette
page 4
GLENKENS SCHOOLS REPORT
Glenkens
Schools –
All Change!
The start of the new term in
January has seen a number of
changes in the management team
in the Glenkens Schools.
At Kells Primary, Mrs Kelly Devine,
who was due to start her maternity
leave at Christmas, was promoted
to the post of Head Teacher at
Wigtown Primary School with
immediate effect. Mr Zane Gray,
Principal Teacher at Moffat Academy
primary department, recently acting
Headteacher at Beattock Primary,
was appointed to cover Mrs
Devine’s maternity leave. Mr Gray
started on 5th January 2011 and
it is anticipated that he will be in
post until a permanent appointment
is made. The School Council at
Kells will be closely involved in the
process of appointing a new Depute
Head Teacher (DHT).
Carsphairn’s
Circus Skills...
At Carsphairn Primary
the children performed a
Christmas Concert about
Ffinlo the Clown.
The performance was enjoyed by
parents and friends in the Lagwyne
Hall.
Mrs Margaret Heuchan, who has
been appointed to the post of
Head Teacher at Kirkbean Primary
School, will be replaced as Principal
Teacher at Carsphairn by Mr Walker
McKenna, with Mrs Jean Adams
covering the 1.5 days support. Mr
McKenna’s 3.5 days at Dalry will
be covered by Mrs Turner, who is
currently in Dalry covering for Miss
Lamont. Both support posts were
advertised on a permanent basis in
January.
Mrs Annette Craig, previously acting
Depute Head Teacher at Castle
Douglas Primary School, will take
up the role of acting DHT at Dalry
for the duration of Miss Lamont’s
maternity leave. Miss Lamont had
the best possible Christmas present
when Molly Rose Newman arrived
on Christmas Day weighing in at 6lb
11oz; I am sure her many friends in
this area would like to pass on their
congratulations.
Farewell then and best wishes to
our leavers and a warm welcome to
the Glenkens to Mr Gray and Mrs
Craig.
Once again Dalry S1 pupils and
Wilkinsons Store in Castle Douglas
teamed up to send a Happy
Christmas around the globe for
overseas children who would
otherwise have nothing.
With contributions from pupils,
staff and Wilkinsons, twenty eight
brightly wrapped shoeboxes left
Dalry School filled with gifts to bring
cheer to children from two to fifteen
years old.
The children entertained the
audience with their singing,
percussion playing and
various circus skills which
linked in with the Circus topic
running from October to
Christmas.
The evening was thoroughly
entertaining and everyone
agreed it was a lovely
performance by the ten
children.
REWARDING
ROWING
The children at Carsphairn Primary
have been running a Rowing
Challenge over the past few months,
inviting adults into the school to
challenge them to row 500 metres
on the rowing machine in the fastest
time possible.
Shoebox
Sharing
The winner of the
Challenge was PC
Bruton, our Community
Policeman, who
completed the challenge in 1 minute
48 seconds.
The children then interviewed each
participant, asking questions about
their hobbies and favourite sports,
and about their occupations past
and present.
The children found out that PC
Bruton trained as a welder before
becoming a policeman, Angus Leigh
(school photographer) drove a pony
and trap for a living before taking
over the family photography
business, Mrs Heuchan worked for a
football club before becoming a
teacher and Mr Grant (Director of
School Services) washed dishes to
earn money when he was at
University.
Some comments from the
students were; William said he
enjoyed taking the photographs
of the people who took part in the
challenge, and Caitlin and Rachel
enjoyed hearing about their jobs.
The children thoroughly enjoyed
welcoming people into the school
and would like to thank everyone
who participated in the challenge.
Photos: right - winner PC Bruton,
left - Director of School Services,
Mr Colin Grant.
Glenkens Gazette
page 5
GLENKENS SCHOOLS REPORT
Primary pupils from
Carsphairn, Kells and Dalry
schools visited Mr Murray,
Dalry Secondary’s Technology
teacher, who showed them
how to make stilts.
students get to use the equipment
in Mr Murray’s room to make some
fantastic pieces of work. It also
helps with later transition as the
children all know Mr Murray and
are already aware of all the very
important safety rules that
must be followed in his room.
As you can see from the pictures,
the children concentrated
thoroughly during their lesson to
produce excellent pairs of stilts.
Many are now excellent stilt
walkers!
In the past primary students
have made football rattles and
trucks to go with ‘World Cup’
and ‘Transport’ topics. This year
the topic was ‘Travelling with the
Circus’.
Mr Murray and Mr Harvie kindly
gave their time to make stilts
with children from all three
schools. These lessons are
a highlight of each year as
Y O U T H U P D A T E
group of orphaned children as they
story follows the antics of Class
Youth Players
struggle to survive in impossible
Six as they carry out a task set for
circumstances. ‘Round the World
by their new supply teacher
& Drama News with Class Six’ was presented at the them
- to sail around the world without
CatStrand in 2009 and as everyone
leaving the classroom…… and be
The ‘house full’ signs were up on
enjoyed
it
so
much
at
that
time
back in time for school dinners!
December 3rd at The CatStrand as
it was decided to enter it for this
the Youth Players presented Alan
Everyone is hoping to follow up last
year’s festival. As the number of
Ayckbourn’s famous play ‘Ernie’s
year’s success when ‘The Willow
cast is flexible, it can involve all of
Incredible Illucinations’ along with
and the Pomegranate’ won the
the remaining club members. The
two different but very enjoyable
Stewartry Youth Festival and went
shorter pieces, ‘Kennel Club’
on to represent the District at
by David Muncaster and ‘The
the West of Scotland Finals.
Funeral’ by Laurie Allen.
The plays will be performed
The members are now
at The CatStrand on Friday
working on their Scottish
4th March, along with the
Community Drama Association
adult festival entry from the
(SCDA) Festival entries to be
Glenkens ’73 Club, ‘Outdoor
staged at Lochside Theatre
Pleasures’ by Jean McConnell.
at the end of February. They
This is a comedy from
will be performing ‘Dust of
another festival favourite
the Street’ by Harry Glass and
playwright which finds longalso ‘Round the World with
suffering Deirdre waiting for
Class Six’ by Nick Warburton.
an outdoor production of a
‘Dust of the Street’ is set in
Shakespeare play to begin,
the Jewish ghetto in Warsaw
reluctantly accompanied by
during the Second World War
her rather awkward and far
The cast of ‘Kennel Club’ from left to right - Hannah
and follows the plight of a
Daly, Lowena Lindsay, Eleanor Jones & Kirstin Stalker. from enthusiastic Aunt Tottie.
GLENKENS
MEDICAL PRACTICE
General Medical &
Dispensing Services
Fresh turkeys, copas
free range turkeys,
geese, ducks, etc.
The Surgery
High Street
New Galloway
See us at Dalry Farmers
Market on the 2nd Sat of
each month.
FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL
T H CARSON, THE CROSS,
MILL ST, DALBEATTIE
01644 420234
01556 610384
Glenkens Gazette
page 6
CatStrand Highlights
February and March are
exciting months at The
CatStrand as our winter
programme draws to a
close and we herald in the
spring with the brand new
March – June programme.
We are very excited about
launching our packed new
programme which features theatre,
comedy, music and film - plenty for
all the family. So make sure to get
your hands on a copy and book up
for your favourite events to avoid
disappointment.
On 4 February we are delighted
to welcome Janice Galloway, one
of Scotland’s best known and
most versatile authors. This will
be an opportunity to hear this
entertaining writer speak and read
from her work, including her latest
novel ‘This is Not About Me,’ with
opportunities for book signings on
the night.
The final live event of the winter
season is an evening of Chamber
music with award winning violinist
Sijie (Susie) Chen on her first visit
to Scotland. Sijie
will be joined
by international
artists Cherry
Tsang and
Matthew Huber for
a programme that
includes pieces by
Prokofiev, Fauré
and Smetana.
The new season
continues on Wednesday 10 March
with a visit by the immensely
talented Dáimh (pronounced
Dive), who offer a fresh, up to
date approach to traditional music,
fusing bagpipes, fiddle, banjo,
guitar and mandola. Their gigs
have been described as
“an overwhelming and
exuberant experience”.
Scottish cast including Dave
Anderson and Jimmy Chisholm.
Are you a musician, poet or singer?
Whether you are a seasoned
performer looking to try out new
material with a friendly audience
or just starting out and thinking
about performing for the first
time, The Catstrand’s Acoustic
Open Stage on 21 March will be
the perfect opportunity. Come
along to perform or just to watch
and support the performers.
If you are interested in a
performing slot please email
jodie@catstrand.com.
For more information or
tickets please call the
CatStrand box office on
01644 420 374 or visit
www.catstrand.com
On Friday 18 March we are
delighted to welcome back
Rapture Theatre to CatStrand, who
celebrate their 10th anniversary
with a performance of Gagarin Way
by Gregory Burke. This blisteringly
funny black comedy by the writer
of the tremendously successful
Black Watch features an all star
THE BUS : GLENKENS TRANSPORT INITIATIVE
£25,000 XMAS PRESENT FOR GTI: Just before Xmas GTI received the excellent news that a Family Trust Fund based
in London had decided to donate £25,000 to be used for the purchase of a new bus. One of the Board members is a
resident of Glenlochar and for a long time she has been very impressed with the work done by GTI and its mini bus.
She was aware that we are in need of a second vehicle and accordingly asked the Board in London for a donation
towards it. Even she was delighted at their response and we are all very grateful for this good news.
NEW MINI BUS: The GTI Committee are now busy researching the different vehicles available and it is hoped to
have it on the road by March 2011. It is important the best use possible is made of BOTH vehicles therefore if
you have any ideas please contact Keith Cooper. Having a second vehicle will obviously give us more flexibility
in that commitments such as the School Run and the Registered Route will not prevent the other mini bus being
used, possibly even travelling away from the Glenkens for an overnight stop!
WINTER TRAVEL: Throughout the recent cold spell we have managed to keep the School Run and the Registered
Route operating. Numbers using the Wednesday evening service into Castle Douglas show how important a
service this is, but please remember all our drivers are volunteers and it is their decision as to whether it is safe
to travel. Responsibility for this decision is
WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE (REGD. ROUTE):
solely that of the driver and not the Council.
CONCESSIONARY BUS PASSES ARE ACCEPTED ON THIS ROUTE, SO PLEASE MAKE
We are allowed to use the A713 via Parton
USE OF THIS EXTRA SERVICE
if it is felt this is safer than using the normal
Timings are as follows:
The return journey :
1900 Dept Dalry (Underhill)
2045 Departs Castle Douglas (Tesco) route via Mossdale.
TRIPS: We always have a short break from
1910 New Galloway
2047 Castle Douglas (Market Street)
running trips at this time of the year but
1925 Mossdale
2052 Townhead of Greenlaw
they will resume in March. On Sunday 13
1935 Laurieston
2100 Laurieston
March 2011 there will be trip to the Farmers
1940 Townhead of Greenlaw
2110 Mossdale
Market in Moffat whilst on Monday 28 March
1947 Castle Douglas (Market Street)
2125 New Galloway
2011 we will visit Callender House in Falkirk.
1950 Arrive Castle Douglas (Tesco)
2135 Arrive Dalry
Details will be advertised locally and tickets
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BOOK THE COMMUNITY-BUS OR IF YOU WANT
can be purchased from The Catstrand after 1
ANY MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT KEITH COOPER, GTI
February 2011.
ADMINISTRATOR ON 01644 420374.
Keith Cooper, GTI Administrator
Glenkens Gazette
page 7
C L U B
C O R N E R
Walking Groups The Glenkens Ramblers meet on Mondays
Thursday
for a moderate walk taking around two hours. The Glenkens Walkers meet
Lunch Club
on Wednesdays for an easier walk taking around 90 minutes. Both groups
We meet fortnightly in New
Galloway Town Hall, ground floor,
entrance from Duke Street, at
12.30pm for a lunch of soup and
filled rolls, cheese and biscuits and
tea or coffee for a charge of £3.00.
Our first meeting of the New
Year is Thursday 6 January, and
thereafter at fortnightly intervals.
Contact phone numbers are:
Raymond Vincent – 01644
420451, Dot Struthers – 01644
420312, Louise Knight – 01644
450655.
Golf Update
Highlights of the year were: Dick
Tulloch set a new course record
- 64-5-59; Sandy Harvie won
the Gents Club Championship and
Anne McQueen the Ladies Club
Championship; the Gents Team
won the Kirkcudbrightshire Team
Championship and is the only team
meet at 1.30pm outside the Bank of Scotland in Dalry. Lists of walks are
displayed in shops in Dalry and New Galloway.
Contacts: John & Isobel on 430 539, Gerry on 420 852, Peter on 420
419 and Elizabeth on 430 581.
Spalding
Bowling Club
The Club held their annual
Social and prizegiving on the
1st Friday in November at the
Ken Bridge Hotel.
This year the Gents champion
was Steve Davie (not in the
photo as he was on holiday)
and the Ladies champion was
Mabel Young.
to win it twice; and the Ladies
Team made it through to the
7th round of the Mail on Sunday
Classic Tournament.
Limited Memberships are now
available for the coming season
and anyone who is interested
should contact Ian Brown, Club
Secretary, on 01556 670 579.
The Open dates for 2011 are:
23rd April - Ladies
- Glenkens Salver
Greensomes
28th April - Mixed
Foursomes - Glenkens
Cup (over 15 holes)
2nd May - Gents May
Day Greensomes
Prize winners at the Annual Dinner of the Golf Club.
Stewartry
Camera Club
The club’s latest competition,
‘Music Titles’, was judged by Geoff
Keating, probably better known
for his local involvement in music.
Geoff used to be a member of
The Stewartry Camera Club and
was well qualified to judge the 30
entries from 15 members.
Geoff was hugely impressed with
the much higher standard of
technical proficiency than when
he was a member. He made
helpful comments on how he saw
individual images being improved.
His advice for members was to
scratch on the camera LCD screen;
19th May - Over 55
Mixed Greensomes Glenkens Trophy (over
“What am I taking a photograph
of?”, “shun the cliche” and “escape
the tyranny of the familiar”.
His helpful advice was much
appreciated by the club members.
The star of the evening
was Alwyn Howes who had
the best overall score with
his two prints. His image
‘Morning’ was judged ‘Best
Landscape’ and ‘Best Print’.
‘Pictures of Lily’ by Mary
McIlvenna was the ‘Best
Monochrome Print’. Peter
Middleton with ‘Snake
Oil Blues’ had the ‘Most
Innovative’ and the ‘Best
New Member’ print. Pete’s
image was taken whilst on
a camera club photography
course with Ted and Morag
15 holes)
29th May - Natural Power
Men’s Open
2nd June - Senior (over 50)
Men’s Open
31st July - Tilhill Gents Four
Ball Better Ball
13th August - Ladies Muirhead Rosebowl - Singles
The Club draws people to New
Galloway and businesses in the
village benefit from having the
Golf Club. Why not put something
back into your Community
and sponsor a competition or
advertise in the Fixture Book?
If you would like to participate
in any way please contact Jeff
Sutcliffe on 01644 450265.
Jeff, Vice Captain/Match Secretary
New Galloway Golf Club
Leeming. The ‘Best Handicap
Score’ was gained by Hazel Groome
with ‘Salt Peanuts’.
For further information contact
Mary McIlvenna 01644 420613 or
George Wishart 01557 870090.
‘Pictures of Lily’ by Mary McIlvenna
The Club welcomes new members
from the over fifties.
Glenkens Gazette
page 8
LOCAL
HISTORY
The Militar y Occupation
of the Glenkens
Contemplating Glenkens today it is
difficult to imagine the dread and
horror which pervaded these peaceful
surroundings back in the 1660s, a
period which generated atrocities
in the name of government such
as to impact indelibly upon the
character and attitudes of the glen’s
inhabitants.
When Charles II was restored to the
throne, following the Covenanting
Revolution and the Cromwellian
Occupation, he immediately set about
the transformation of Scotland’s
presbyterian church, re-introducing
bishops and episcopalian government. In
1663 ministers who refused to conform
were ordered to remove themselves
forthwith with their “wives, bairns,
servants, goods and gear” from their
churches and manses.
Most in Galloway were in this
category, among them James Buglos
of Crossmichael, Thomas Warner of
Balmaclellan, John Cant of Kells, Adam
Alison of Balmaghie, Thomas Thomson
of Parton and John M’Michan of Dalry.
They were replaced by inexperienced and
allegedly under-qualified, curates.
All legislation supporting the covenants
was rescinded and parishioners who
refused to attend the local church
were fined. Those who adhered to the
covenants and the principle of the
separation of Church and State sought
spiritual solace in conventicles - illegal
meetings for worship conducted by the
displaced ministers in houses, barns
or the open air. In order to collect the
fines, to monitor non-attendance, to
enforce laws proclaiming the covenants
treasonous and to create general terror
and mayhem, troops were sent into the
region.
Thus the Scottish Government, at
the bidding of the king, declared war
upon its own subjects.
To make matters worse the soldiers were
quartered upon the local population.
An un-named ‘gentleman of Galloway’
reported the inevitable consequences to
his friend in Edinburgh. He declared that
per family); Balmaghie, 9 families, £426
(£47 per family); Parton, 24 families,
£2838 (£118 per family); Crossmichael,
he was no fanatic but he found himself
number of families unknown, £1667;
becoming radicalised by the sufferings
Kells, number of families unknown,
of his fellow countrymen and women,
£467; Stewartry, an additional 91
as a result of the soldiers’ “inhuman
individuals, £7,860 (£526 per person).
and atheistical deportment”, as they
These figures are in pounds Scots, 12
arbitrarily preyed upon “a desolate
of which equated to one pound sterling.
people for their own private gain”.
They would be paid by the head of the
household. Although we do not know
Quartering was hated as profoundly as
the total number of families in any parish
it was dreaded. The troops seemed to
luxuriate in needless waste, feeding whole since there was no Scottish census until
sheep to their dogs and destroying crops, 1755, Dalry is clearly the stand-out on
this reckoning, a veritable hotbed of
to cries of;
resistance.
“We came to destroy, and we shall
The sums may seem misleadingly paltry.
destroy you”.
When converted from pounds Scots, for
Having consumed the resources of the
example, the 47 families in Balmaclellan
landlord they then descended on the
owed, on average, £5 sterling each but
tenants. Men were attacked and tortured,
according to the National Archives
women and children assaulted. Property
Currency Converter website, that is
was wilfully damaged, informants were
equivalent in today’s money to £384.
rewarded, complaints and grievances
The Carsphairn average is a hefty £614
ignored by the authorities.
and Dalry a staggering £1459. For the
In addition to the levying of cess
individuals of the Stewartry the average
(assessment or taxation) and the
works out at some £3378.
considerable cost of quartering, fines
These are colossal sums by 17th century
for non-attendance at the kirk were
standards. Little wonder that the
imposed, though sometimes they could
Galloway letter-writer opined that the
be avoided by bribing the soldiers.
consequence of these
Allegedly there was no distinction
between those who conformed and those “grievous and intolerant impositions”
would be the “utter ruin” of a
who refused, producing “an universal
majority of Galloway families.
outcry in this country”. Even worse,
many loyal subjects were fined for the
Furthermore, these sums were demanded
non-obedience of their wives. This was
from a society that had little experience
particularly alarming,
of cess or taxation, let alone of fines for
not attending church, and these were
“for there are many wives who will
not be commanded by their husbands the first of a series that would be levied
relentlessly for a generation through to
in lesser things than this”,
1688. Of course most fines were never
occasioning much contention and
paid, leading to the seizure of property
strife in families to the point that some
and imprisonment. Government
women fled their husbands to seek
intention was apparently the total
shelter elsewhere, and so, horror of
destruction of a dissident civilian
horrors, the poor goodman was “doubly
population. And the killing of ‘The
punished despite his conformity”! The
Killing Times’ had not yet commenced!
independence of Galloway women is a
How could the hapless population
recurring theme in this period.
defend itself ? The unexpected and
The total amount of fines for some
unlikely response was to appear in the
parishes have survived. Thus (rounded to guise of the ill-fated Glenkens Rebellion
nearest pound): Carsphairn, 49 families
of 1666, better known, inaccurately, as
paid £4865 (av. £99 per family); Dalry,
‘The Pentland Rising’.
43 families, £9576 (£223 per family);
Ted Cowan
Balmaclellan, 49 families, £6431 (£131
Glenkens Gazette
page 9
NATURE & WILDLIFE
Diamonds on the Soles of My Shoes
In a roundabout sort of way,
after all the mild winters of the
past two decades, these past
two frozen years lead to a hope
that we might sometime see a
decent summer through July
and August – even one would
do, for now!
Meantime, we have to find positives in
the bitter conditions, and there are many
for those of us lucky enough to get
around and stay warm.
With all of the local lochs and most of
the rivers ice-locked, waterfowl had a real
challenge not only to find food by day, but
open water for safe roosting by night, too
- not only here, but across Scotland.
For several weeks through December all
flight lines led to Dumfries & Galloway,
including the Glenkens, because here and
there tracts of open water remained on
the Ken and lower down on the Dee.
One Sunday evening George and I
watched 2-3,000 pink-footed geese join
Icelandic greylags and Greenland whitefronted geese to roost on the River Dee
near Threave Castle.
More than content with seeing them, we
then sat spellbound in the nice new hide
overlooking Blackpark Marsh, as the
grey gloaming gave way to near dark,
and watched 101 whooper swans come
past in groups of a dozen or so from the
east on their way to the river. Pure white
apart from their black legs and distinctive
yellow and black bills, in the silvery halflight of that frosty evening they appeared
ghostlike as they flew silently past, before
characteristically honking evocatively in
circling down to find some water of their
own for the night.
Like the geese, these travellers from
Iceland are regulars here in winter, often
feeding between Castle Douglas and
Haugh of Urr. However, the numbers
of pinkfeet were certainly swollen by
incomers from elsewhere, and there
were reports of thousands more right
along the Solway to Luce Bay, and even
a few bean geese, which used to be
such a feature of this part of Galloway.
They are now better known from the
Slamannan plateau near Falkirk, and it
was no surprise when I was contacted
by Angus, their principal watcher,
wondering if they were here.
However, of all the natural phenomena
around the area this winter, my wonder
was most stimulated again by a half
hour’s afternoon walk down the Water
of Ken from Dalry.
from the alder trees alongside the burn,
punctuated now and then by the soosh
of another batch of ice slipping into
the water from the warming banks. All
natural and timeless sounds that will
have been heard countless times before
in the Glenkens over the millennia I’m
sure, but not by me; not like I heard that
day anyway.
These thoughts were running through
my mind as I made my way back
upstream along the flood bank. Just
fornent the screens at the foot of the
Garroch Burn, I glanced to my right
over the bottom holm towards Kirkland.
With each succeeding step a new set
of sparkling stars lit up the ground as
myriad ice crystals momentarily caught
the strong, low sun rays and reflected
them towards me. This I had often seen
before, but never was I so struck by their
number and brilliance.
The ground was literally
The ground was encrusted with twinkling as I strode along.
hoarfrost after many days of
sub-zero temperatures, but now Instinctively, I stopped. So did they.
is, the stars stood still. I stepped
the sun was shining and a thaw That
on a yard and they all disappeared as
was coming.
quickly as a whole new set opened up
Suddenly I became aware of a fairly
continuous crackling sound coming
to view. On stepping back the new ones
disappeared and all the old ones came
back, while a further backward step
brought yet another set of ground
stars out. I stood in the fascinating
realisation that at any given point all
of the twinkling stars were at just the
proper angle to catch the light and
divert it to my eyes, and as I moved on
so the effect was of twinkling starlight,
or even of walking on sunshine. Winter
was never less dull!
Chris Rollie
KENBRIDGE HOTEL
New Galloway
Pensions – Savings – Investments
Retirement & Inheritance Tax Planning
Life Assurance – Protection – Mortgages
For advice on any of the above,
or to review your existing arrangements,
contact your local adviser:
Brian J. Edgar DipPFS
Area Office: Tannoch, Newton Stewart Road,
New Galloway DG7 3RT
Open 7 Days : Beauti
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Central Office,
61 Victoria Street,
Newton Stewart DG8 6NL
M E A L S S E RV E D
12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm
Tel. 01644 420288
Tel 01671 403080 Fax 01671 402549
e-mail - brian.edgar@marrfinancial.co.uk
web - www.marrfinancial.co.uk
Marr Financial Services is an Appointed Representative of Sesame Ltd
YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE
New Galloway
Golf Club
TRADITIONAL LOG FIRE
Founded 1902
bed and breakfast
en suite accommodation
v 01644 420737 v
01644 420 211
mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk
www.kenbridgehotel.co.uk
www.nggc.co.uk
Buggies now available for hire
VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS
WELCOME
Glenkens Gazette
page 10
Local Author: Chris Rollie
Chris Rollie may be more
familliar to many of you in
his role as Area Manager for
RSPB Scotland in Dumfries &
Galloway.
Chris on 13 January at the Caledonian Club,
Belgravia, with the President of the Caledonian
Society of London, where he was the principal
speaker at their Burns Supper.
With the RSPB, Chris has managed
projects such as the re-introduction of
red kites to Galloway and the subsequent
creation of the Galloway Kite Trail.
Before employment with RSPB, Chris
was a biology teacher in Ayrshire for 10
years, but was always heavily involved in
voluntary ornithological surveying and
monitoring, which led to his first full-time
post with RSPB as Conservation Officer in
1991, the year and stimulus for his move to
the Glenkens.
“My reasons for choosing Dalry were
various”, says Chris. “I absolutely loved
the place from my annual visits to monitor
peregrines and eagles in the 1980s – it
gave easy access to the hills, Dumfries,
Ayr and back to New Cumnock where my
parents lived, and where I was born and
grew up. I was also very good friends with
the late Donald Watson and great admirer
of his paintings, particularly of birds in
the Glenkens. Also, it was a great place to
bring up my then two young daughters,
with shops and two vibrant pubs!
“Although things have changed a bit over
the 20 years since coming, I am still in
love with the area – the hills, lochs, woods
and remaining bird life are breathtaking
at times, and there to enjoy in a light and
tranquility that I treasure”.
Chris goes on to talk about his work as
an author: “Some of my writing involves
short articles or papers for publication in
ornithological journals and newsletters,
but I am also keenly interested in Robert
Burns, not only his works, but also his life
and times.
“I have published
various articles and
papers on Burns and
delivered several of
these at conferences and
seminars. Having been
born overlooking the
Afton Water, I guess
it was inevitable that one day I would
write a book on Robert Burns and New
Cumnock, and this was published to mark
the bi-centenary year of the poet’s death
in 1996.
“My second book, ‘Robert Burns in
England’, was published in 2009 to mark
the 250th anniversary of the poet’s birth.”
Chris has also been asked to write a
book on Burns and Birds, and has been
considering writing about Burns in
Galloway. At present he is writing up a
recent sabbatical to Syria and working on
a long term Definitive
Chronology of Burns...
whew! Watch this space
for more from Chris.
Chris’ books are available from
The CatStrand, New Galloway,
or for further information contact
Chris on 01644 430 103 or
chrisrollie@moorglen.fsnet.co.uk
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Domestic and
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01644 430 495 (Peter)
or 07767 795 498
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THE GARAGE, DALRY
PETROL & DIESEL SALES
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ALL AT COMPETITIVE PRICES
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CASTLE DOUGLAS, DALBEATTIE
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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
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OAKWELL ROAD
CASTLE DOUGLAS
Glenkens Gazette
GLENKENS DIARY
FEBRUARY
REGULAR EVENTS:
page 11
1st Dec, 10am-12noon
Sat 5, ’73 Drama Burns Supper,
7.30pm, The CatStrand
Glenkens Ramblers, Mondays,
1.30pm, outside the Bank, Dalry
Teen Spirit: every Tues during term
time, 7.30-9.30pm
Fri 4, Janice Galloway, 7:30pm,
£8/£6
Scouts: Mon, 7–8.30pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Taking the First Step in Computing:
Wed, 5.30-7.30pm
Mon 7, Dalry CC Meeting, 7pm,
Dalry Town Hall
Mother & Toddlers Group: Tues
9.45-11.15am, New Galloway Town
Hall
Boxercise, Wed 7-8, NG Town Hall,
£4
Sat 12, An Evening of Chamber
Music with Susie Chen and Friends
Saturday, 7:30pm, £10/£8
Beavers: Tues, 6.30–7.45pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Zumba, Wed 8-9pm, NG Town Hall,
£4 - £6 combined Boxercise &
Zumba
Gentle Yoga & Relaxation, Thurs,
10-11.15am
Mon 14, New Galloway & Kells CC
Meeting, 7.30pm, New Galloway
Town Hall
Glenkens Walking Group,
Wednesdays, 1.30pm, outside the
Bank, Dalry
Tues 22, Film: Despicable Me (U),
2pm, £4.50/£3.50
Stewartry Camera Club: Wed,
7.30pm, The Tolbooth, Kirkcudbright
Wed 23, Film: Tamara Drewe,
7.30pm, £4.50/£3.50
Mossdale Painters, Wed, 9.30am,
Mossdale Village Hall
Mon 7 to Fri 18, Exhibition: Dalry
School, Catstrand opening hours
Cub Scouts: Wed, 6.45–8pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Mon 28, Carsphairn CC Meeting,
7pm, Lagwyne Hall
New Galloway Thursday Lunch Club,
12.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall,
fortnightly on Thursdays starting
6 Jan, the Club welcomes new
members from the over fifties, £3.
Contact Raymond Vincent, 01644
420451.
CatStrand Playstation Tournaments:
contact The CatStrand for info.
Lions Club monthly quiz, alternating
between The CatStrand & Lochinvar
Hotel. For further info contact
Andrew Frew on 420 323.
Paint & Art: Mon 1.30-4.30pm
Mon 28, Balmaclellan CC Meeting,
7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall
MARCH
Fri 4, Glenkens 73 Club & CatStrand
Youth Players, 7.30pm, £5/£3
Thurs 10, Stewartry Bird Watchers
Talk, for info contact Joan Howie,
01644 430 226
Sat 12, Glenkens and District
Music Club: Quintet Zambra (wind
quintet), 8pm, Dalry Town Hall
Wed 16, Dàimh, 7.30pm, £10/£8
Fri 18, Rapture Theatre presents
Gagarin Way by Gregory Burke,
7.30pm, £10/£8, Age 14+
Thurs 24, Acoustic Night, 7.30pm,
£6 (Ticket includes glass of wine/
beer or soft drink)
Thurs 31, Stewartry Bird Watchers
AGM & talks by members, see entry
on 10 March for contact info.
Saturday Art Club, 2nd Sat each
month, 10am–12noon
Catstrand Youth Players, every Sun
during term time from 3-5pm
Glenkens Youth Choir, Sun, 5-6pm
Dalry Community Centre
(for info contact Sarah on 430 393)
Glenkens Playgroup: Mon-Fri, 9.1511.45am
Ballroom & Latin Dance drop-in
class: Mon 7.30-9pm, £5
The CatStrand, New Galloway
(see p6&7)
Ballroom & Latin Dance course: Mon
9-10pm, for more info tel Sam Hood
on 01644 420672
Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am
Good Neighbours Club: Tues 2pm
Play it by Ear: every Mon during
term time, 1.30-2.30pm
Kickback Martial Arts: Tues & Thurs
7-9pm, both adults & children
welcome
Children’s Dance Classes with
Margaret Morris Movement: every
Mon during term time, 4-5pm (ages
8-12)
Taking the Next Step in Computing:
Mon, 5.30–7.30pm
Carers Coffee & Chat, starts Tues
TIMES OF WORSHIP IN THE GLENKENS
CHURCH OF SCOTLAND
20th March 12 noon, Dalry Church
Sundays: Balmaclellan 12noon 1st; Carsphairn - 10.30am
1st 2nd 3rd 4th; Dalry - 12noon 1st
2nd 3rd 4th; Kells - 10.30am 2nd
3rd 4th
SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL
CHURCH (C of E)
St Margaret’s, New Galloway:
Holy Communion - 10.30am
every Sun & Wed
Special Services &
Events: 25 Feb, 7pm: Beetle
Drive, Dalry Town Hall. 4 Mar,
7pm: World Day of Prayer Service,
Carsphairn Church.
CATHOLIC CHURCH
SERVICES
Gatehouse of Fleet: Sat,
6pm. Kirkcudbright: Sun,
9.30am. Dalbeattie: Sun,
11am. St Ninian’s Episcopal
Church, Castle Douglas: Rev
McFadden - 01557 330687
Communion Services:
27 Feb, 10.30am, Kells Church;
20 Mar, 10.15am, Carsphairn
Church.
Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri each
month, 2pm
Dalry
Library
Tue:
2 - 4.30pm then
5.30 - 7.30pm
Fri:
11:15am - 1:
15pm then 2 4.30pm
23 mobile library
stops - to find
out where and
when call
430 234
Glenkens Mother & Toddlers: Wed
1.30-3pm
Craft Class: Thurs 2-4pm
Brownies: Wed 5.30-6.45pm
Guides:Wed 5.30-7pm
USEFUL NUMBERS:
● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000
● Local Police: 0845 600 5701
● Crimestoppers: 0845 555 111
Glenkens Gaze�e
Adver�sing Rates
6cm x 6cm - £31.50 per issue (10%
series discount)
1/4 page (9cm x 13cm) - £68.25 (25%
series discount)
1/2 page (13cm x 13cm) - £126 (25%
series discount)
Full Page (18cm x 27cm) - £210 (25%
series discount)
Glenkens Gazette
page 12
A TALENT FOR FUNDRAISING
A Christmas concert in Carsphairn,
staged by the villagers themselves,
has raised almost £450 for the local
Sunday school and the village hall.
Following on from the inaugural
event entitled ‘Carsphairn’s
Got Talent’ last year, this year’s
show, on 4 December, was called
‘Carsphairn’s Got Even More Talent’
and featured a variety of acts
ranging from solo and group vocal
and instrumental items to humorous
sketches, monologues and recitals.
The event played to a packed
Lagwyne Hall and was brought to a
close with a karaoke that went on
into the wee small hours.
The concert was organised by the
Carsphairn Church Social Committee
and members and helpers laid on
tea, coffee and mince pies during
the interval.
As the event was purely for the
enjoyment of the villagers, donations
were requested instead of an
admission charge. Added to the
proceeds of a raffle, these amounted
to more than £450 in aid of the
Sunday School and the Lagwyne Hall.
“The main aim of the show was
to provide some pre-Christmas
entertainment in the village, put on
by ourselves for our own enjoyment.
The bonus was that we also raised
money for a couple of local worthy
causes.
“We are grateful to everyone who
took part in and supported our
show, especially those who donated
raffle prizes and made donations,”
commented Nigel Martin, one of the
concert organisers.
Pics left to right: Carsphairn members
of the Glenkens Choir entertain the
villagers, Colin Feierabend bursts into
song with the backing of Julie McKay,
Maggie Phillips and his wife Maureen and
Sue Wiseman relates one of her own
poems entitled ‘A Holiday Romance’.
ALEX
FERGUSSON
MSP
FOR GALLOWAY
AND UPPER
NITHSDALE
Holds regular advice surgeries at:
2 St ANDREW STREET, CASTLE
DOUGLAS
on the second Friday of every month from 5pm
Telephone free on 0800 028 7260
for an appointment or to make any
alternative arrangement’
You can visit Alex’s website at
www.alexfergusson.org.uk
or contact him by e-mail at
alex.fergusson.msp@scottish.parliament.uk
WRITE FOR THE GAZETTE! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews,
tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... If you have a submission, contact Sarah Ade on 07727 127 997 or
glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk APRIL / MAY COPY DEADLINE: Mon 4 March
Printing the Glenkens Gazette for
the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust
is just one way of expressing our
commitment to the communities we
work in. www.standardlife.com
The Glenkens Gaze�e is an ini�a�ve of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Sco�sh Charity No. SC032050
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<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> </span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p>
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GLENKENS GAZETTE
news from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry
April/May 2011
ISSUE 63
BRAND NEW
BUS!
FREE
GTI Bus user, says:
The Glenkens Transport
Initiative (GTI) are
delighted to announce
that they have a new
community bus.
As a result of the generosity of a
London-based family Trust Fund,
GTI have been able to purchase a
brand new VW 17-seater wheelchair
accessible minibus.
The Trust Fund had heard about
the activities of GTI through a local
resident who is a member of their
Board and realised that because of
our success, we were in need of a
second vehicle.
The Bus is a lifeline for many within
the Glenkens, and is so popular that
often trips are booked up before
they’re even advertised! George
Colbenson, Dalry resident and regular
“The Bus makes a lot of
difference to me and to
a lot of older people in
the Glenkens who can’t
drive anymore. There
is a great social side
to the Bus - my wife
Barbara and I see a lot
of people we otherwise
wouldn’t get to see.
A lot of trips get fully
booked, but with two
Regular Bus user George Colbenson trying out the new bus.
buses, everyone who
wants to go should
the demand for its services has
be able to, and we can have a great
steadily increased. Working with
party on the way!”
Dumfries & Galloway Council to
provide transport in a rural area is
Information is available from The
CatStrand on how to become a driver, an important role GTI play as well
as being involved with many other
how to form a ‘user group’ and the
aspects of life in the Glenkens.
role of Community Transport in the
area at a time when public services
If you have queries about the GTI
are under threat.
please do not hesitate to contact
Keith Cooper at The CatStrand
The present minibus was purchased
(01644 420 374) or email
in 2002 and in the last few years
k.cooper121@btinternet.com
SUPPORT FOR LOCAL LIBRARY
Earlier this year, the regional Council was
considering closing a number of libraries across
the region due to budget cuts.
Dalry Library was one of the libraries on the list. In light
of this, Glenkens residents got together to show their
support.
The Council decision was made not to close any libraries
this year, much to the relief of residents, and a Friends of
Dalry Library group has been formed to discuss various
ways in which the library can be used more.
As a result of an appeal for support by local childrens’
author Cathy Cassidy, the Library recieved letters,
posters, pictures and even books signed by a variety
of well known childrens’ authors. Some authors who
responded were Darren Shan, Michelle Harrison, Debbi
Gliori and Andy Briggs, along with many others. Local
library lovers would like to thank everyone for their
wonderful support!
If you would like to find out what’s on, call the Library on
430 234, or to show your support and become involved
visit Friends of Dalry Library on Facebook.
IN THIS ISSUE
- Bird Town Update
- Dalry Housing
- Day of the Region
- CatStrand Highlights
- Local History
- Star Wars
...and much more
Local Playgroup children; regular library users.
A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve
www.glenkensgaze�e.com
Glenkens Gazette
page 2
DALRY HOUSING
Reports suggest that Dalry is about
to experience a house-building
boom. Quite how many houses will
eventually be built is impossible to
say but there are currently three
projects, one planned by a public
body - Dumfries & Galloway Housing
Partnership (DGHP) - and two by
private developers. As far as can be
ascertained this is the situation as it
stands...
The proposal by an Ayrshire firm to
quarry 40,000 tonnes of rock and
build 10 houses on a site between
the school and the Manse was given
provisional approval by the Council
in November 2009. This resulted in a
wave of protest and a well-supported
petition that was presented to the
Council. The Council’s Operations
Manager has now indicated that no
agreement has yet been reached with
the developer over the conditions
attached to the provisional approval
of the plans. Until that happens;
“there is no planning permission for
the development”. Local protesters
are awaiting further news but, if
permission were to be eventually
granted, are determined to mount a
legal challenge.
In February Dumfries & Galloway
Council gave approval by 9 votes
to 6 to a proposal by DGHP to build
29 houses on a marshy site on the
Moniaive road next to Whinnymuir.
This is in
addition to
an earlier
planning application and means that
provisional permission has now been
given for 35 houses to be crammed
onto this very small site. It is difficult
to find information about the plans
of the private developer who had
previously advertised houses for sale
on the same land but it seems that
DGHP now owns about half of the
site. The private developer (whom I
am told is now using the name Dalry
Properties) apparently still owns some
of the land, including that needed
for a flood prevention scheme, and
could also build more houses next to
Wayside.
There were many objections to the
DGHP proposal as it stood but it
is most important to say that the
objectors were very much in favour of
affordable family houses being built
on the site. However, they believed
that the DGHP plan was for housing
at too high a density and of the wrong
type.
A settlement has existed at Dalry for
the best part of a thousand years.
In that time the village has grown
slowly to have a population today
of around 400. Buildings have been
added, a few at a time, in response to
local need for housing and services.
This demand for new buildings varied
as employment opportunities in
agriculture, forestry, hydro-electric
power and service industries waxed
Get Your Skates On
New Galloway Skate Park has got the go-ahead
and is nearly ready to start rolling...
The Glenkens Youth Project (GYP) group have recently
been granted planning permission for the park, and are
now raising money for fencing and hedging around the
site so that it is in keeping with the rest of the park.
In order to raise funds, GYP have been holding fundriasing
events. A Zumba session was held in Kirkcudbright where
£280 was raised. £400 was also raised through a ceilidh/
disco in New Galloway - these may become a regular
event, with money raised going towards GYP trips.
summer, culminating
in a weekend of special
events on the first
weekend in October.
The first ever Day of the
Region to take place in the
UK is happening right here in
Dumfries and Galloway with
the Glenkens as one of five
locations in the Stewartry
taking part.
This is your chance to find out more
about what’s happening where you
live, get involved, have a go and
maybe even try something new!
Activities will be happening in the
Glenkens throughout the spring and
and waned.
In recent years a gradual reduction
in the size of families has meant that
the building of additional houses
has not led to any significant rise in
the population. Many of the existing
houses in Dalry were built at a time
when overcrowding was the norm.
It was not unusual for large families
to be raised in one or two-bedroom
houses, but nowadays most such
dwellings have just one or two
occupants. If we want to encourage
the development of a lively, mixed
community it is obvious that more
houses suitable for families are
needed. DGHP seems intent on
pushing through its plan of building
the maximum number of small houses
on the Whinnymuir site, rather than
engaging with the Community and
coming back with a modified plan. I
think we have a right to expect better
of such a publicly funded body.
However, now that the decision to
build the DGHP development has
been taken, it is most important that
the community comes together to
welcome the fact that some of the
houses at least will be suitable for
families and to press for them to
be allocated to those families in the
area who are in desperate need of
suitable housing. Above all, I hope
that whoever occupies these houses
they will (as my family was many
years ago) be welcomed into the
community, and encouraged to take a
full part in it.
Andrew Mellor
Whether you are
interested in sports,
arts, crafts, music,
drama, cooking or the
outdoors, this is your
opportunity to share your skills or
learn new ones from others in our
community.
Three workshops took place
in February encouraging
local individuals, groups and
organisations to get involved. So
far there has been a great response
from people around the Glenkens
who are keen to take part. We hope
that many more will get involved.
WIN £50! There is a £50 prize
up for grabs for someone in the
Glenkens! Register your details now
by emailing dayoftheregion@dum
gal.gov.uk or call 01387 850228
and you will be asked to complete a
short survey about our community
for a chance to win in the Day of
the Region prize draw.
If you have an event or activity
that you would like to include
under the banner of Day of the
Region please contact Rachel, Ros
or David. Programmes of activities
will be developing throughout the
year so look out for the Day of the
Region logo on posters and flyers
to find out what’s going on. We
hope you’ll join in!
To find out more contact: Rachel
Thompson on 01644 420374, Ros
Hill on 01644 420632 or David
Whyte on 01644 460296.
Glenkens Gazette
page 3
BIRD TOWN UPDATE
We have good news to
report on the planned
Dalry Bird Town project.
In addition to the £10,000 already
received from the Big Lottery for
a Project Development Officer, a
grant of £9,000 has been awarded
by Scottish Natural Heritage. We are
also awaiting the final outcome of
an application to Rural Dumfries &
Galloway LEADER for over £40,000
as this would complete the funding
package for the next stage. We are
actively seeking office space in the
village.
We want to concentrate on two key
elements; first and foremost, we
will be putting together the funding
package for the purchase and
refurbishment of Barone, the former
Watson family home. This will take
time to come to fruition, which is why
we have a second element; a series
of events to keep the pot boiling so
to speak.
A date for your Diaries: Friday 30
September to Sunday 2 October will
be the dates of the first Dalry Bird
Festival. We have lots of ideas to
appeal to all of the family, all ages,
all abilities and all interests. Among
the ideas for indoor events being
developed are a children’s fancy
dress parade, talks about the birds
of The Glenkens, demonstrations
on how to make bird feeders
and bird boxes, a chance to see
Donald Watson’s original studio, art
exhibitions by children as well as
Dalry Community Council: The CC was
informed that two officers have been appointed for the
Biosphere project, one from Dumfries & Galloway and
the other from East/South Aryshire. It was confirmed
that the library will remain open for the time being, any
decision being deferred until at least next year. Next
meeting: Mon 4 Apr, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall.
New Galloway & Kells Community Council:
It was agreed that a donation of £25 be made to the
childrens’ party arranged by Balmaclellan Community
Council. Discussion took place regarding the painting
by DR Pelly, currently in store, which is intended to be
on permanent display in the Town Hall; the necessary
permission to be sought from the Council. Next
meeting: Mon 11 Apr, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town
Hall.
Balmaclellan Community Council: The
A712 is in a terrible state, and repairs are being done.
Because it’s so narrow, it is being closed (7am-7pm) for
repairs. This follows an earlier closure – in December
– and more to follow. It was asked whether there any
way weight restrictions could be introduced to cut down
on the heavy traffic. Cllr Peter Duncan said probably
not but he would raise this with the traffic department.
Next meeting: Mon 25 Apr, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan
Village Hall.
Carsphairn Community Council: Cllr Peter
Duncan indicated that upgrading of the B729 would be
professional artists, a book stall, and
a chance to buy cards, calendars and
posters all created by local children.
Outdoor activities being considered
are guided walks to bird locations,
visits to Donald Watson’s favourite
painting sites and how many birds
can you spot in the village. In the
evening we are considering concerts
around bird song and bird related
music. So if you have ideas please let
me know. More information will be
available over the coming months.
The Steering Group set up to lead
the project comprises: Cathy Agnew,
Chris Rollie, Louise Watson, Andrew
Mellor, Gill Khosla, Steve Davie and
Roger Crofts.
If you have ideas, free time to help or
wish to know anything please contact
me on roger@dodin.idps.co.uk or
07803 595267.
Roger Crofts, Steering Group Chair
paid for from the Strategic Road budget, although the
Council were negotiating a contribution from Timber
Transport. A meeting will be requested with the Roads
Department to consult and to clarify what would be
included in the upgrade. The Roads Department agree
in principle to there being signs warning of heavy
transport vehicles.
A SEPA representative discussed the additional flow to
through the Galloway Hydro Scheme. Under the new
EU Water Framework Directive the river flows from
Loch Doon are classified as ‘good’, but at Tongland
are classified as ‘bad’ and need to be upgraded to
‘good’. The preferred solution indicates 0.45% extra
flow throughout the length of the Scheme. In theory
this should not increase banks erosion, flood risk and
sewage disposal.
The CC queried this, particularly when water was
released from Drumjohn. It was suggested that
although the official objection deadline has passed,
letters from the CC and individuals could be submitted
to SEPA East Kilbride where they would not be formally
recognised in SEPA’s determination of the application
but, as it was likely to go to appeal to the Scottish
Executive, they would probably be considered at that
time. It was agreed that a letter be sent from the CC
detailing concerns about banks erosion – particularly at
Woodhead Bridge - flood risk and sewage disposal. Next
meeting: Mon 25 Apr, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall.
Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library.
The Clog & Shoe
Workshop
unique handmade footwear
open 10am - 5pm weekdays
Easter Mon to 31st October
please ring to arrange a visit at
other times
Tel: 01644 420 465
visit our new online shop at
www.clogandshoe.co.uk
FORREST ESTATE
FIREWOOD
Local suppliers of firewood logs,
kindling and chiminea wood.
Hardwood and so�wood
produced from sustainable,
FSC cer�ficated woodland.
Various quan��es available
for collec�on or bulk delivery.
Call for details 01644 430 230
office@forrestestate.com
Glenkens Gazette
page 4
celebration of World Book Day, Dalry Library
WORLD Inextended
its opening hours to welcome visits from
Talented
Dalry Primary classes and author Cathy Cassidy.
BOOK
Teens
DAY
Cathy shared heartfelt and humourous stories with the
children about her own passionate relationship with books and In February a second exhibition
libraries. Speaking affectionately of her local library she told them: of artwork from Dalry School
“It’s small and friendly and every book can open up a new world of was held - another celebration
imagination”.
of the wealth of talent within
Jane Banner, school librarian, and Angela
our school community.
Miller, librarian at Dalry Library, are
The exhibition was built around
working together to encourage local
the expressive and design
children to join and use Dalry Library,
units produced by the 10 pupils
which was recently threatened with
entered for the SQA art and
closure.
design examinations in the
With this in mind, back at school, Primary
summer of 2010.
and Secondary pupils took up the call
Alongside this was fabric design
of ‘Friends of Dalry Library’ and chose
work produced by S2 pupils
an author each to write to, asking for
which was a collaboration
Cathy’s talk keeps children enthralled.
a message of support for the Library.
between art and HE.
As part of their topic on ‘Space’, Primary
We are always proud of the
7 from Dalry Primary and Primary 6/7
pupils at Dalry School, but the
from Kells Primary visited the Glasgow
CatStrand exhibition offers us
Science Centre. It
the opportunity to share their
was a great day,
wonderful work with the whole
which was enjoyed
community.
by both classes, it
complimented the
work that the children
S1 at Dalry Secondary have a
had been learning
new and exciting opportunity;
about well and
followed on from their to learn Spanish.
The Modern Languages
talk from Dr Bellerby
Department was given support
from the Galloway
by the Languages Fund, and
Forest Astronomical
pupils started their lessons
Society.
after Christmas.
Pupils were surprised by how
On the 3 March, sixteen secondary pupils from Dalry School travelled to
many words they already
Bladnoch Park, Wigtown, to compete in the annual regional cross country
knew, but have added to their
championships. The sixteen S1 to S3 pupils put on their running shoes to
repertoire with greetings,
compete amongst the large number of competitors on the day.
numbers up to 20 and some
The testing course put all runners under pressure, but this was no challenge for basic grammar. Olé!
the Dalry runners who all finished strong. A finishing official reported that Dalry
pupils were the happiest and wore the biggest grins when they crossed the
finishing line. A huge “well done” to everyone who took part!
P4/5 pupils at Kells Primary
Six brave S2’s - Amelia, Kirsty, Sarah,
participated in a skipping
Alexander, Fraser and Oliver - set off
challenge to raise money for
for Italy, Aprica, along with Mr McKenna
Britain’s heart charity.
and Mrs Biggar for an extremely busy week of skiing.
The children spent six weeks
They had each been following an exercise plan for 6 weeks before setting off as
in training to build up stamina
well as attending a few meetings about the trip organised by the trip leaders, Mr
and skipping skills for the big
Findlater and Mr Sloan from Dumfries Academy.
day. The skipathon morning
Each day they were out skiing or snowboarding for five hours, glad for the
was spent in stamina skipping,
exercises now! The weather was perfect – clear blue skies and loads of fluffy
obstacle and relay races,
white snow over the slopes. The progress the pupils made was impressive with
paired and fancy free skipping
Paulo’s group soon leaving the nursery slopes behind and cruising down the
activities.
Panoramica piste. The
other groups including the
beginner boarders were
quick to follow.
Apres ski ranged from
an evening at the indoor
bowling to a night out at
the pizzeria with some
karaoke to follow. A great
chance for our pupils to
make many new friends
from the other participating
schools.
Kells school children supporting the skipathon.
Seeing Stars
SPANISH CLASSES
Regional Cross Country Championships
Skipathon
Ski Trip 2011
Glenkens Gazette
page 5
Clachan Fair
Wednesday 8:
Pet Show and
BBQ – Newfield
Green, 7pm
Plans are progressing well for this
year’s Dalry Clachan Fair. The dates Thursday 9: Scottish Night
are 5 to 11 June. Events so far are: – Town Hall
Friday 10: Treasure Hunt
Sunday 5: Donkey Day & BBQ
– Venue to be confirmed Domino
– Carminnows Lodge Songs of
Praise – Kirk or Newfield Green, Night – Clachan Inn
Saturday 11: Clachan Fair
6.30pm
(parade, stalls in the street,
Monday 6: Bingo Supper –
Mulloch Race, games and lots
Community Centre
more fun). Dance.
Tuesday 7: Quiz Night – Town
Note: There is also a Farmer’s
Hall, 7.30pm
Market on Sat
Things could still
change so watch
out for further
information and
confirmation
of times and
venues. If you’d
like more details,
to enter a float
or offer to help
during the week
please contact
Mike Kaye on
01644 430162
or clachanfair@1
stforweb.co.uk
Diabetes Support
People in the Glenkens
who have been diagnosed
with diabetes are being
encouraged to join a local
support group.
This region has the highest
proportion of diabetics in
Scotland and there are fears the
numbers could continue to spiral.
The Diabetes UK Stewartry
Support Group offers diabetics the
opportunity to learn more about the
condition and how to live with it at
a series of talks held between March
and December.
The next meeting takes place on
Monday 28 March when the guest
speaker will be Imran Arain from
Castle Douglas Health Centre
who will talk about public health
programmes currently available in
the Stewartry.
Duncan Ferguson, chairman of the
group, said: “We would like to see
more people from the Glenkens
coming to our monthly meetings.
The meetings are open to people
diagnosed with both type 1 and type
2 diabetes as well as members of
their families and their carers.”
Currently, Scotland is said to be on
the verge of a diabetes epidemic
and, according to the latest NHS
statistics, Dumfries & Galloway has
some of the highest figures.
At the start of 2010, a total of
7,348 people in the region were
registered with the condition,
representing five per cent of
the population; the highest rate
of any health board area in the
country.
The next meeting of the group takes
place on Monday 28 March in the
Gordon Memorial Hall (adjacent
to St Ninian‘s Church), Whitepark
Road, Castle Douglas at 7pm.
Admission is £1 and refreshments
are provided. There is also a fundraising raffle.
Any money raised by the group is
donated to Dumfries & Galloway
Royal Infirmary’s Endowment Fund
to be spent specifically on diabetes
care in this region.
GLENKENS
MEDICAL PRACTICE
General Medical &
Dispensing Services
The Surgery
High Street
New Galloway
FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL
01644 420234
Glenkens Business
Association (GBA)
The long awaited Glenkens Business
& Community Directory has been
hand delivered to the majority of
homes within the Glenkens, and is
available from local shops and other
outlets for those in outlying parts of
the area.
With over 40 businesses and 50
commuinity organisations featured,
we are receiving really good
feedback and enquiries from people
and groups not currently included.
We were amazed at the number
of organisations within the area,
many of whom told us they would
be pleased to have new members.
So if there is something there that
you think you might like to join just
contact them - especially, of course,
the GBA!
As you will read elsewhere in the
Gazette, the GBA is linking with
GCAT to facilitate the Day of the
Region. This will be a really good
opportunity to show off your
business or organisation in a
practical way. The GBA AGM will be
on 4 May. To join the GBA contact
David Whyte on 01644 460 296 or
email davidwhyte@btinternet.com
Local Initiatives in
New Galloway (LING)
In December we submitted
a proposal to the Stewartry
Area Comittee to take over the
management of the Town Hall.
We were told that there would be
a further look at the works needed
to ensure the building is wind and
watertight and that there are no
outstanding health and safety
issues. At going to press we are
awaiting this report.
Before we sign any agreement with
the Council we will hold another
open meeting to make certain we
have both the ongoing support
of the local community and the
volunteers to manage the project.
Ros Hill, LING Chairman
Glenkens Gazette
page 6
CatStrand Highlights
The wait is over and by now
you should have got your
hands on our new season
March – June Events Guide.
As the days start to get longer
there is plenty going on at
CatStrand during April and May to
keep you busy and entertained.
On 14 April
Edinburgh
based Plutôt la
Vie visit with
their brand
new show By
The Seat Of
Your Pants; a
fast, visual,
funny show
in a clown
style for ages
7/8+ and their families. After the
performance there will be the
opportunity to explore your own
inner clown with a performance
skills workshop for 9-15 year olds!
Join storyteller Anne Errington on
Thursday 21 April for an evening
of love stories with a twist. Tickets
include a glass of wine/beer or soft
drink so you can sit back, relax and
hear how the stories unfold.
This year’s Easter Puppet Theatre
performance will be Cloud Man,
presented by Ailie Cohen which
tells the story of cloud expert
Cloudia and her search to see
a rarely sighted Cloud Man. A
blend of puppetry, storytelling
and sumptuous visuals, this is
an Easter Monday treat not to be
missed.
One of the hottest bands on the
Americana circuit is North Carolina
based Woody Pines who pay
us a visit on 27 April with their
“rollicking, engagingly idiosyncratic
amalgam of American old-time,
blues and jug band sensibilities”.
We are extremely excited by a
visit on 30 April by ThickSkin
with their production of Blackout
by Davey Anderson. This hardhitting and highly visual production
enjoyed sell-out success at the
2010 Edinburgh Festival Fringe and
wowed critics, receiving five star
reviews.
his new album ‘My Gypsy Waltz’,
together with music from his
acclaimed 30 year career. We are
also delighted to be hosting Dick
Gaughan & Annapurna Dance
Theatre as part of the Dumfries &
Galloway Arts Festival.
For more information or
tickets please call the
CatStrand box office on
01644 420 374 or visit
www.catstrand.com
4 May is ‘Star Wars Day’ and to
celebrate, the Dumfries & Galloway
Science Festival will offering a
fascinating lecture demonstration
exploring the Science of Star Wars
with Dr Martin Hendry – May the
Fourth be With You! (see article on
back page.)
A special event in association with
the Dumfries Film Festival and dg
Arts will take place on 5 May with
the opportunity to see Speaking
the Land, a”lens and story- based
work” by international artists
Dalziel & Scullion who have created
three short films looking at the
landscape of Dumfries & Galloway.
The film will be introduced by
dgArts Public Art Officer Jan
Hogarth and tickets include a glass
of wine/ soft drink.
Formidable Flamenco – Jazz
Virtuoso Eduardo Niebla visits on
11 May presenting music from
THE BUS : GLENKENS TRANSPORT INITIATIVE
SATURDAY 14 MAY – GTI Trip to the Isle of Arran.
MONDAY 23 MAY – GTI Trip to Dawyck Gardens, near Peebles.
WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE (REGD. ROUTE):
CONCESSIONARY BUS PASSES ARE ACCEPTED ON THIS ROUTE, SO PLEASE MAKE
USE OF THIS EXTRA SERVICE
Timings are as follows:
The return journey :
1900 Dept Dalry (Underhill)
2045 Departs Castle Douglas (Tesco)
1910 New Galloway
2047 Castle Douglas (Market Street)
1925 Mossdale
2052 Townhead of Greenlaw
1935 Laurieston
2100 Laurieston
1940 Townhead of Greenlaw
2110 Mossdale
1947 Castle Douglas (Market Street)
2125 New Galloway
1950 Arrive Castle Douglas (Tesco)
2135 Arrive Dalry
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BOOK THE COMMUNITY-BUS OR IF YOU WANT
ANY MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT KEITH COOPER, GTI
ADMINISTRATOR ON 01644 420374.
Random Aspekts
On 19 January, break dancers
from Random Aspekts visited
Dalry Primary and Secondary
schools to lead students in dance
workshops, showing them some
moves including Break Dance &
Body Popping. Random Aspekts
& Cypher Dance went on perform
their shows Rock-a-Bye Bboy and
Box Fresh at The CatStrand on 20
January.
Glenkens Gazette
page 7
Double Decker Dreams
Anyone who has gone though Dalry
on a Friday night will have seen all
the young people congregating at
the park in all weathers.
If the group manage to raise the
money
With little provision for young people needed,
in the area, the group are hoping to Friday
raise enough money to buy a double nights will
decker bus that they can turn into
never be
a mobile youth cafe (complete with
the same.
juke box and table football!). The
The mobile
bus would then be able to turn
cafe bus
up and provide a space for young
would be
people to meet up with friends.
able to
STOP PRESS! GYP received
its first bus donation; £250 from
Scottish Power. GYP would like
to take this opportunity to thank
them for being the first to support
the bus-cafe project: “The Youth
Cafe will be amazing when it gets
going and give the young people
of this area something fun, funky
and fabulous!”
New Galloway
Golf Club
Open Competitions for 2011:
Thurs 28 April - Glenkens Cup 15 hole mixed foursomes
Mon 2 May - May Day
Greensomes - gents
Thurs 19 May Glenkens Trophy Mixed Greensomes - over 55
Sun 29 May - Natural Power Mens
Open
Thurs 2 June - Belhave Senior
Mens Open
Sun 31 July - Tilhill Open Fourball
If you are interested in any of the
above opens please contact the
Match Secretary 01644 450265
or jeffsutcliffe@btinternet.com
NOTICE TO LOCAL VILLAINS
There has been yet another
break in at the clubhouse. It is
now becoming a similar pattern
by local villains who smash the
window and gain entry stealing
bottles of cider. Luckily this time
it is understood that the culprit
was arrested by police.
For the attention of the villains,
the club house is fully alarmed
and is shortly to get its own
closed circuit cameras, so if you
want a drink without spending
time in jail, please go to one of
the pubs in the High Street!
Jeff,
Vice Captain & Match Secretary
If anyone is interested in donating,
or would like to sponser/advertise
on the bus please get in touch on
420327 or gyp2@btinternet.com
and help us make this happen!
This is a fantastic project for young
people to be involved with - it will
make hanging out with friends
easier, more relaxed and fun, and
will also help to develop skills and
volunteering opportunities. Children
of all ages will love it!
are new to this area
NEW GALLOWAY SWRI Ifandyouwant
to meet people, or
At New Galloway Rural we are
looking for new members to come
and enjoy our yearly programme of
speakers and social events.
The Rural is a registered charity
with no religious affiliation and
is a non-political organisation.
Its members are interested in a
wide range of subjects including
crafts and cookery, gardening, the
environment, health, exercise and
sports. The latter can be pursued
through events organised by the
Stewartry Federation. Our speakers
cover a wide range of topics to
reflect members’ wishes.
newly retired and need new
interests, we would be very happy
for you to come to a meeting or two
with no obligation to join.
If you’ve moved up from England
and belonged to the WI, you’ll
feel at home - and its cheaper!
Our fundraising lunch on 20 April
would be a good opportunity to
meet us (look out for posters).
Otherwise we will be meeting on
the 3rd Wednesday every month
from 2-4pm (except July and
August) usually in New Galloway
Lower Town Hall. Please ring Jenny
Repath on 01644 420 235 for more
information.
FUNDRAISER FOR SW SCOTLAND RnR
St Margaret’s Ladies’ Guild are holding a plant and cake sale at the
church on Kenbridge Road on Saturday 30 April from 11am - 3pm in aid
of SW Scotland RnR. This local charity provides holidays for wounded
personnel as part of their rehabilitation.
Please come and buy our plants and cakes and help us support this
worthwhile cause. Donations of produce for us to sell will be gratefully
received beforehand or on the day. For further information ring Jenny
Repath on 01644 420 235.
best
Stewartry Camera Club The
‘Handicap Score’
The Club’s latest competition
‘Movement’ was judged by local
photographer Phil McMenemy, who
has a gallery in Laurieston. Phil said
many of the prints made him think,
and one or two got him laughing
out loud, so he thoroughly enjoyed
looking at the competition entries.
The star of the evening was John
Smith who had the best overall
score with his two prints. The
‘Best Monochrome’ was by Mary
McIlvenna, the ‘New Member
Best Print’ was shared by Jenny
Armstrong, Pete Middleton and John
Repath. The ‘Best Landscape’ was
shared by Alec Blackadder, Alwyn
Howes and Mary McIlvenna.
was shared by
Hazel Groome and Mary McIlvenna.
For further information contact
Mary McIlvenna 01644 420613 or
George Wishart 01557 870090.
‘We’re Only Playing’ by John Repath
With project number one, the
skatepark, well under way, the
Glenkens Youth Project (GYP) are
looking into future developments
that will benefit the young people of
the Glenkens.
turn up and provide shelter
and somewhere for a hot
chocolate and hot snack. The
group are looking to raise around
£8000 to buy and convert the bus.
Glenkens Gazette
page 8
LOCAL
HISTORY
T he Glenkens King
Cairn Edward, smothered as it
is in forest, when viewed from
the east, looms like a great
pudding across Loch Ken or
above New Galloway.
Balliol, grandson of Dervorguilla, Lady
of Galloway and great grandson of Alan
Lord of Galloway, was recognised by
the English and not a few Scots as King
Edward from 1332-56, albeit his title
was much disputed. The true king was
The hill’s name is of Gaelic formulation David II, son of Robert Bruce. Balliol
since in English or Scots it would
was king only with English support and
be ‘Edward’s Cairn’. The question
so can be seen as the ‘Young Pretender’
is – who was Edward? It has been
of the fourteenth century. Local hero
unconvincingly attributed to Edward I
he undoubtedly was, but he lived a
of England but a less likely individual for somewhat futile and pathetic life.
Scottish commemoration is difficult to
There was a failed conspiracy to place
imagine since it was he whose invasion
him on the Scottish throne in 1320 in
of Scotland in 1296 led directly to
opposition to Robert I who had insisted
the Scottish Wars of Independence.
that landholders possessing estates in
Venerated as a great king in England, he
England must surrender them or face
is characterised in Scottish historiography
banishment, and must decide whether
as a cruel and bloody tyrant who was
they were Scots or English. He thus
responsible for the English occupation
created a seriously dissident group known
of the country and the vicious execution
as ‘The Disinherited’ who continued to
of William Wallace.
support Balliol for a generation. After his
John Gordon Barbour of Bogue House father’s deposition young Edward was
near Dalry asserts that in his day (1824)
subjected to rather luxurious detention in
the locals pronounced Edward, Ethart,
England. He was godson of Edward I, a
possibly influenced by Gaelic Eideard.
sometime playmate of Edward II and the
He relates the tale of how Edward
pawn of Edward III.
Bruce, brother of King Robert, victor
In 1332 he was invited back
at Bannockburn, climbed the hill and,
admiring the magnificent view over Ken to Scotland by a man whose
name looks like a Galloway
and Dee, exclaimed that he must one
spoof – Twynam Laurison!
day take possession of such a beautiful
vista. Accordingly a cairn was erected
He began well, winning the battle of
on the summit and Edward Bruce, in
Dupplin Moor in which he “displayed
due course, became Lord of Galloway.
a bold spirit of enterprise, and a
However he was a hot-headed warrior
courage superior to all difficulties”; he
who is depicted as something of a
also inspired a revolt in Galloway. He
maverick and folk do not usually name
was crowned King of Scots at Scone,
places for their enemies.
celebrated in English propaganda as,
Glenkens was Balliol territory ‘the very and true king of Scotland,
as by heritage and right line’. David II
and the Bruces were their
was eight years old and so, as a minor,
sworn foes.
deemed by some unfit to occupy the
The families fought one another on
kingship. By year’s end the Bruce party
several occasions and the Bruces, when
had driven Balliol out of Annan Castle,
they gained the upper hand, wreaked
uncomfortably straddling a saddleless
havoc on the glen.
horse “with one leg booted and the other
Balliols and Bruces were competitors for bare”. However, he recovered, to win
further victories at Berwick and Halidon
the Scottish kingship in the 1280s and
‘90s. Edward I, having been asked by the Hill, only to face defeat at Culblean in
1335.
Scots to decide the case, selected John
Balliol as the man with best title in 1292,
ruling until deposed three years later. It
is the latter’s son who is most likely to be
remembered in Cairn Edward. Edward
Once David II began his personal
rule Balliol was little more than an
English pensioner. For the rest of
his life he was a spent force whom
English commentators dismissed as a
pseudo-king, manipulated at the whim
of Edward III for his own nefarious
purposes. Balliol based himself at Hestan
Island in Fleet Bay and at Burnt Isle in
Loch Ken.
His ‘kingdom’ amounted to
little more than an extended
Glenkens, specifically Buittle,
Kenmure and Kirkandrews.
The last-named included Balmaghie,
Parton and Crossmichael while he also
controlled Kenmure Castle and the
Earlston estates. Eventually, in 1356,
he was forced to alienate the whole of
the south of Scotland to Edward III, as
well as, unforgivably, his own kingship,
“roaring like a lion, almost beside
himself with anger [he] burst out in
words more bitter than any conceivable
death”, lambasting “the Scottish people,
that most unsympathetic of nations
who have rejected me as their ruler”. So
saying he handed over his crown and a
handful of Scottish earth and stones.
Thus the ambitions of the last
of the line of the Lords of
Galloway ended in dust.
He lived for a further eight miserable
years. Glenkens should memorialise its
one king for History’s victims deserve
to be remembered alongside her heroes
even if, as the chronicler wrote, “On this
matter it should be noted that he gave
away nothing for his part, because he
had no right in the beginning”. For more
information see Amanda Beam, The
Balliol Dynasty 1210-1364 (Edinburgh
2008).
Ted Cowan
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Glenkens Gazette
Alexander Gordon
of Earlstoun
The local Church of Scotland
congregations are planning
to set up a Covenanter trail
around the Glenkens.
Curious to know where the noted
Covenanter Alexander Gordon of
Earlstoun was buried, I was browsing
through the Gordon family papers in the
Ewart library, Dumfries, when I came
across the following lines:
“He died at Airds (Parton parish) 1726 and
was buried in Dalry Churchyard, south side
near the dyke, on which spot his grandson Sir
John Gordon intends raising a monument to
his Memory with the following inscription:
‘To the Memory of the very worthy Pillar
of the Church of Scotland, Sir Alexander
Gordon of Earlstoun, Bart. who, after many
years sufferings, died 1726 aged 76’.”
He at times
hid in the
Earlstoun
oak, which is still there, just
hanging on to life; and he had
a hideout nearby in the woods
where he often slept. In the end he
was arrested on board ship while on a
mission to Holland for the Covenanting
Societies and spent six years in jail in the
Edinburgh area, including time on the
Bass Rock.
It seemed very appropriate to me that
there should be a memorial to Alexander
in Dalry churchyard, perhaps as one of
the central focal points of the proposed
Covenanter trail.
So I approached the Scottish Covenanter
Memorials Association to see if they
would take on the project. They have
been very helpful and have offered
a grant of £1200 to the project, but
that will still leave us short of what is
required.
There are two possible ways of taking
the project forward; the more ambitious
There then followed a lengthy epitaph
one would be to erect a memorial stone
composed by his grandson. His grandson
like the one pictured. This contains a
arranged for the erection of a stone with
good portion of the epitaph, though
a similar epitaph over the grave of his
with twelve lines missing from the centre
great-grandfather William Gordon of
of the poem. The owner of Ayrshire
Earlstoun, who was buried in Glasford
Memorials, who is a member of SCMA,
churchyard, Lanarkshire after being killed
has quoted £3345 for the preparation
at the Battle of Bothwell Bridge; but the
and erection of such a stone. Normal
family were going through hard times
cost for such a stone would be over
financially after the years of persecution
£5000. The other option would be to
and it would seem that he never managed
leave the poem off the stone, which
to erect the stone in Dalry churchyard.
would reduce the cost considerably
After the Battle of Bothwell Bridge
but would leave us with a far less eyeAlexander was outlawed. For a time
catching stone without these inspiring
troops were billeted in Earlstoun Castle
words which bring it to life.
and when they were absent he sometimes
It is proposed to erect the stone just to
returned to sleep in his own bed, only
the left of Dalry Session House, as you
quick actions enabling him to elude
face it from the front. It is also hoped
capture on a number of occasions.
to prepare an information board on the
KENBRIDGE HOTEL
New Galloway
page 9
Gordons of Earlstoun
which could be
attached to the Session
House itself. There
could be possibilities of
having the poem on the
information board; but
that would be a far less
enduring memorial and
subject to vandalism.
I would value feedback
on what you think we should do. I
would also be grateful of any pledges
from people willing to help us reach the
amount required for the more expensive
stone.
There are 32 lines of text and, alongside
grant support, you could perhaps think
in terms of sponsoring, say, a line for
£50 to help us reach the total. If there
is support for it I would certainly favour
the first option.
There will be a Conventicle in Dalry
churchyard on Sunday 26 June at
3pm. This could conceivably be for
the dedication of the new stone if
the project comes together quickly.
Otherwise it will be a milestone on the
road towards the erection of that stone,
and will highlight the connections which
the churchyard has with Covenanting
times.
David Bartholomew
T. H. CARSON
BUTCHERS
See us at Dalry Farmers
Market on 2nd Sat each month.
We can deliver to your door call us any time up to the Friday
before the Farmers Market, and
we will deliver on the Saturday,
afternoon.
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01556 610384
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THE GARAGE, DALRY
PETROL & DIESEL SALES
SERVICE & REPAIRS
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01556 503744
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01644 420 211
Tel: 01644 430208 Fax: 01644 430669
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Glenkens Gazette
Burns Returns
A memorable evening toasting
the Bard was enjoyed by all
those who attended the first
Burns Supper to be held in
Balmaclellan village hall for 31
years.
The tradition was re-kindled by the
recently formed Hall Commitee and
their hard work was clear for all to
see. New Curtains and table cloths
made by Sandra Dempster and
beautiful flowers by Lee Cawthorne
along with new crockery and tables
financed by the Stewartry Area
Committee led many locals to say
they had never seen the hall look so
well as they were welcomed at the
door by Jim Kirkpatrick and a glass
of fizz.
Chairman Neil Cawthorne welcomed
everyone to the hall and
the evening was started
with the Selkirk Grace
by Reverend David
Bartholemew.
page 10
given by Robert
Mcturk.
Professor Ted
Cowan gave the immortal memory,
bringing a Glenkens theme to his
words. Amazing renditions of Tam
o Shanter and Holy Willie’s Prayer
were provided by Stewart Park from
Sanquhar. Brian Edgar gave the
toast to the Lassies with Maybelle
Thompson replying on their behalf.
The toast to agriculture was given
by Alex Ferguson MSP.
Between the speeches all present
were entertained by Eileen
Cawthorne and Robert Lind who
gave a beautiful recital of some
of Burns’ most popular songs.
All agreed that it was a night to
remember and look forward to it
becoming an annual event once
again in the village.
Tartan Day Pupils in
Primary 7 at Dalry School organised
a ‘Tartan Day’ to celebrate the life of
Robert Burns.
The children came into school
dressed in tartan and each class
took part in Scottish related
activities. Primary 7 organised an
assembly about Roberts Burns,
which included Scottish songs and
performances of Tam O’Shanter
and Address to a Haggis. Primary
7 then went on to cook their own
Burns Lunch of haggis, neeps and
tatties, with shortbread for pudding.
The children worked well together
to cook a fantastic lunch, which
everyone enjoyed.
The Haggis was piped
in by John Hilsley and
a rousing address was
Community singing followed, with Margaret Sloan at the
piano and this led in to David Gibbon giving the Vote
Andy McCartney piped in the Haggis, with Irene McCreath of Thanks to the artists. David prefaced this by asking
Anna Campbell
acting as Poosy Nancy, Darrel Wilson addressed the
to present Andy
Haggis very ably and Dr Bartholomew gave the Selkirk
McCartney with
Grace.
an engraved
The meal was prepared by Committee Members and
glass bowl in
as usual in Carsphairn, the men of the Hall Committee
recognition
served the tables.
of piping at
Robert McTurk was Chairman for the evening and
Carsphairn
introduced Grierson Dunlop who proposed the Toast to
Burns Supper
Robert Burns.
more years than
most people
Laura Luke from Kilmarnock sang two Burns’ songs
could remember
beautifully and unaccompanied, and Andy Campbell
- at least 40!
gave a scary and lively rendition of Tam o’ Shanter. This
FHB Fencing
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Dalry
Domestic and
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01644 430 495 (Peter)
or 07767 795 498
(Jonathan)
CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS
New Galloway
Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm
Sat 2-2.30 pm
DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS
Golf Club
Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm
Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm
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FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES
OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY
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CASTLE DOUGLAS
The top table.
The Best of Burns
A packed Lagwyne Hall at Carsphairn enjoyed what was
termed “One of the Best Burns Suppers Ever” on the
Thursday before Burns Night. And this was the 43rd of
these annual events!
was followed by David Finlay proposing a toast to “The
Lassies” which had his audience in stitches (and David
too) and Cathy Agnew suitably replied on behalf of the
lassies, closing with a toast to “The Laddies”.
Glenkens Gazette
G L E N K E N S D I A RY
MARCH
Mon 28, Diabetes Support meeting,
Gordon Memorial Hall (adjacent to St
Ninian‘s Church), Whitepark Road,
Castle Douglas, 7pm, see p5
APRIL
Sat 2 April – Thurs 12 May,
Exhibition: Anthea & Derek Summers,
The CatStrand
Wed 6, Make a Scarecrow
Workshop,10am-1pm, The CatStrand
Thurs 7, Film: Harry Potter and the
Deathly Hallows Part 1, 2.30pm, The
CatStrand
Wed 13, Spring Fling: Bunting Making
Workshop,10.30-12.30, The CatStrand
Thurs 14, Plutôt La Vie: By the Seat
of Your Pants, 2.30pm, The CatStrand
Thurs 21, Storytelling with Anne
Errington, 7.30pm, The CatStrand
Mon 25, Ailie Cohen: Cloud Man, 57+, 3pm, The CatStrand
Wed 27, Woody Pines , 7.30pm,
The CatStrand
Thurs 28, Golf: Glenkens Cup - 15
hole mixed foursomes
Sat 30, St Margaret’s Ladies’ Guild
plant & cake sale, 11am - 3pm, the
church on Kenbridge Road, see p7
Sat 30, ThickSkin: Blackout by Davey
Anderson, 8pm, The CatStrand
MAY
Mon 2, Golf: May Day Greensomes
- gents
Wed 4, GBA AGM, 7pm, The Ken Bridge
Wed 4, May the Fourth – The Science
of Star Wars, 7.30pm, The CatStrand
Thurs 5, Film: Speaking the Land,
8pm, The CatStrand
Sat 7, Kells Primary School PTA Spring
Family Fun Day, 11am-2pm
Wed 11, Eduardo Niebla, 7.30pm,
The CatStrand
Sat 14 May – 30 June, Exhibition:
Carol Taylor, The CatStrand
Sat 14, GTI Bus Trip, Isle of Arran,
see p6
Thurs 19, Golf: Glenkens Trophy CHURCH OF SCOTLAND
Sundays: Balmaclellan:
12noon 1st, Carsphairn: 10.30am
1st 2nd 3rd 4th, Dalry (April): 12noon
1st 2nd 3rd 4th, Dalry (May): 9am 1st
2nd 3rd 4th, Kells: 10.30am 2nd 3rd 4th
Special Services/Events:
17 Apr, 6.30pm: Glenkens Church
Choir with Stainer’s Crucifixion,
Balmaclellan Church. 22 Apr,
7.30pm: Good Friday Service, St
Margaret’s Church, New Galloway.
24 Apr, 7am: Easter Dawn Service
at Carsphairn War Memorial,
followed by breakfast in Lagwyne
Hall, Carsphairn. 6 May , 7.30pm:
Mixed Greensomes - over 55
Thurs 19, Glenkens RNLI Fundraising
Group, ‘Hats at Sea’, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall
Fri 20, Dick Gaughan,7.30pm, The
CatStrand, New Galloway
Mon 23, GTI Bus Trip, Dawyck
Gardens, near Peebles, see p6
Fri 27, Annapurna Dance Theatre,
7.30pm, The CatStrand
Sat 28, THE Fun Dog Event of The
Year, Barstobrick equestrian centre,
Ringford, see p12
Sun 29, Golf: Natural Power Mens Open
JUNE
Thurs 2, Golf: Belhave Senior Mens Open
Fri 3, Welfare Rights Benefit
Surgeries – phone to book, 9.30am1pm, The CatStrand
Sun 5 to Sat 11, Clachan Fair, Dalry
REGULAR EVENTS:
Glenkens Ramblers: Mon, 1.30pm,
outside the Bank, Dalry
Scouts: Mon, 7–8.30pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.4511.15am, New Galloway Town Hall
Beavers: Tues, 6.30–7.45pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Glenkens Walking Group: Wed,
1.30pm, outside the Bank, Dalry
Stewartry Camera Club: Wed, 7.30pm,
The Tolbooth, Kirkcudbright
Mossdale Painters: Wed, 9.30am,
Mossdale Village Hall
Cub Scouts: Wed, 6.45–8pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Thursday Lunch Club: 12.30pm,
New Galloway Town Hall, fortnightly
starting 6 Jan, £3, contact - Raymond
Vincent, 01644 420451.
Lions Club monthly quiz: alternating
between The CatStrand & Lochinvar
Hotel, contact - Andrew Frew, 420 323
The CatStrand, New Galloway
(for info call 420 374)
Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am
Play it by Ear: Mon during term time,
1.30-2.30pm
Quiz Night, Dalry Town Hall. 29
May: 10.30am: United Service with
Choir in Dalry Church.
Communion Services: 1
May, 12noon: Balmaclellan Church.
SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL
CHURCH (C of E): St
Margaret’s, New Galloway: Holy
Communion - 10.30am every Sun
& Wed.
CATHOLIC CHURCH
SERVICES: Gatehouse of
Fleet: Sat, 6pm. Kirkcudbright:
Sun, 9.30am. Dalbeattie: Sun,
11am. St Ninian’s, Castle Douglas:
Rev McFadden - 01557 330687.
Dalry Library
Tue:
2 - 4.30pm then
5.30 - 7.30pm
Fri:
11:15am 1:15pm
then
2 - 4.30pm
23 mobile library
stops - to find
out where and
when call
430 234
page 11
Children’s Dance Classes with
Margaret Morris Movement: Mon
during term time, 3.15-4pm (preschool), 4-5pm (ages 8-12)
Carers Coffee & Chat: Tues, 10am12noon
Teen Spirit: Tues during term time,
7.30-9.30pm
Taking the First Step in Computing:
Wed, 5.30-7.30pm
Boxercise: Wed: 7-8, New Galloway
Town Hall, £4
Zumba: Wed: 8-9pm, New Galloway
Town Hall, £4 - £6 combined price
for Boxercise & Zumba
Gentle Yoga & Relaxation: Thurs, 1011.15am
Sing it Out: Singing Workshop: Thurs,
11.30am-12.30pm
Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri each
month, 2pm
Saturday Art Club: 2nd Sat each
month, 10am–12noon
Circus skills swapping share: 3rd Sun
of the month, 1-3pm
Catstrand Youth Players: Sun during
term time from 3-5pm
CatStrand Playstation Tournaments:
contact The CatStrand for info.
Dalry Community Centre
(for info contact Sarah on 430 393)
Glenkens Playgroup: Mon-Fri, 9.1511.45am (contact - Julie Moore 01644
460 687)
Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm
Ballroom & Latin Dance drop-in class:
Mon, 7.30-9pm, £5
Ballroom & Latin Dance course: Mon,
9-10pm, for more info tel Sam Hood
on 01644 420672
Good Neighbours Club: Tues, 2pm
Kickback Martial Arts: Tues & Thurs, 79pm, both adults & children welcome
Glenkens Mother & Toddlers: Wed,
1.30-3pm
Craft Class: Thurs, 2-4pm
Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm
Guides:Wed, 5.30-7pm
USEFUL NUMBERS:
● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000
● Local Police: 0845 600 5701
● Doctors: 01644 420 234
Gaze�e Adver�sing Rates
6cm x 6cm - £31.50 per issue
(10% series discount)
1/4 page (9cm x 13cm) - £68.25
(25% series discount)
1/2 page (13cm x 13cm) - £126
(25% series discount)
Full Page (18cm x 27cm) - £210
(25% series discount)
Glenkens Gazette
page 12
THE Fun Dog Event of The Year
In aid of Dumfries & Galloway Canine Rescue Centre
Sat May 28, Barstobrick equestrian centre, Ringford
Pedigree and novelty show classes; Dog agility and
dog dancing; Dog obedience competitions; Celebrity
Judge STV presenter Stephen Jardine
Come and join us!
Further info: 01387 770210, www.caninerescue.co.uk
and local vets and pet shops.
carricks of
carsphairn
Convenience Store and Tea Room/Garden
A warm welcome awaits customers old and new!
Enjoy a browse around the shop, which stocks all your
daily requirements. Post Office open 11am to 1pm
Monday to Saturday. Locally made woollens, gifts and
cards available.
Enjoy a light meal in the Tea Room, which is open
all year round (except Christmas Day). Our menu has
something for most tastes including home-made pies,
scones and soups. Our garden has the most wonderful
views all year round...
We are open:
Mon to Fri
7am - 6pm
Saturdays
8am - 6pm
Sundays
9am - 5pm
STAR WARS
Over
the
past few years, 4 May has come to be known
worldwide as ‘Star Wars’ day; an affectionate pun
on the iconic greeting which is spoken in hushed
tones by the likes of Luke Skywalker and Obi-Wan
Kenobi in the Star Wars films.
It is perhaps a sign of how strongly the Star Wars
saga has impinged on popular culture over the past
30 years that the phrase “May the Fourth be With
You” immediately evokes thoughts of Jedi kinghts and
lightsabre battles!
But just how much science is there behind the science
fiction of Star Wars? Could we ever travel to other
planets, traversing the vast distances between star
systems using shortcuts through hyperspace? What
kinds of alien worlds might exist elsewhere in our
Universe, and could they bear lifeforms that resemble
the exotic creatures found in the Star Wars cantina?
Could a Jedi Knight really use a lightsabre to fend off
blasters and energy weapons? Could the Death Star
really blow up another planet?
On May the Fourth 2011 Dr Martin Hendry, an
Astrophysicist from the University of Glasgow, will give
a talk on the ‘Science of Star Wars’ at The CatStrand as
part of the Dumfries & Galloway Science Festival.
As a lifelong Star Wars fan, Martin has always been
fascinated with the exotic worlds, spaceships and alien
life depicted in science fiction - and how they might
relate to what science tells us about the real Universe.
He currently holds a Science in Society fellowship from
the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council, the
aim of which is to lead an international programme of
science outreach on the theme of ‘Exploring the Dark
Side of the Universe’.
The aim of this project is to engage schools and the wider
public with some of the biggest questions in science: How
did the Universe begin? What will be its eventual fate? Is
there life on other planets? Why are we here..?
Perhaps above all what he has learned from 25 years
as a scientific researcher is that the real Universe is
even weirder than anything science fiction has dreamed
up. Come along to The CatStrand on 4 May to find out
more...
Real Dog Training
“Is your dog ruining your life?”
REAL solutions for REAL problems in
REAL situations to make
a REAL difference.
CALL ERIC NOW
Home: 01644 460670
Mobile: 07831 590822
Eric Broadhurst (NDOA
Advanced Instructor)
35 years dog trainer to the TV
and film industry
WRITE FOR THE GAZETTE! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons,
reviews, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... If you have a submission, contact Sarah Ade on
07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk JUNE/JULY COPY DEADLINE: Fri 6 May
Printing the Glenkens Gazette for
the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust
is just one way of expressing our
commitment to the communities we
work in. www.standardlife.com
The Glenkens Gaze�e is an ini�a�ve of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Sco�sh Charity No. SC032050
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Editor: Sarah Ade
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<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> </span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p>
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GLENKENS GAZETTE
news from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry
June/July 2011
ISSUE 64
FREE
NEW BIGGER GAZETTE
As of the next issue, the
Glenkens Gazette will be
even bigger and better.
Thanks to a generous ongoing
sponsorship from the Glenkens’
largest employer, Natural Power
Consultants, the Gazette will now
include an additional four pages in
every issue!
The new format will include a new
FREECYCLE page, an environmental
feature, further features and
more room for organisations and
companies to advertise.
The FREECYCLE page is
designed to allow people
to get rid of items they
no longer want, knowing
they will be appreciated by
someone else.
You basically give them away
instead of just taking them to the tip
or putting them in the bin. It could
be anything from a bed or sofa to
spare vegetable plants, pots of jam
or an old computer. You would be
amazed at what other people want...
But for it to work WE NEED
YOUR HELP!
If you have any item you wish to
include on the FREECYCLE page
simply contact Gazette editor, Sarah
Ade (07727 127 997 or glenkensgaz
ette@hotmail.co.uk) identifying the
item and giving a brief description
along with contact details, and
she will include your items in the
Gazette.
The environment feature will be
different every month but each
will be relevant to you and the
Glenkens, and could include items
such as energy efficiency, wildlife,
local initiatives, etc.
The new look will also allow for
additional features to be included,
so if you have any ideas for
inclusion simply let us know.
And don’t forget the additional
advertising space - local
people really do read the
Gazette and it is a useful way
to be seen in the local area.
We need the support of local
companies to make the Gazette a
success so please put in an advert.
Once again, a big thank you
to Natural Power. We are
very grateful for your support
and commitment to the local
community and look forward to
the new expanded Gazette for
future issues.
A Natural Winner
The winning photograph
Phil says; “As I hope you can
imagine I am chuffed to bits and
so proud. It continues to be an
amazing journey I am having with
my photography (and my life!).”
“The image (below) is one of those
which I’ve had in my head for a few
years and I was fortunate on this
occasion for everything to come
together to create the final image
– it was one of those drooling
moments, which as an artist don’t
come along too often.”
“Seeing the competition my image
was up against in this Award
makes me feel humble, grateful
and gives me a real sense of
acknowledgement
for my endeavours
– things like this
make my work so
worthwhile.”
To see more of
Phil’s work visit
The Gallery at
Laurieston, open
Sundays and most
Saturdays during
the summer (01644
450 235) or visit
www.pmc
photography.co.uk.
A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve
Phil McMenemy
Local photographer Phil
McMenemy has been
awarded the Scottish
Nature Photography
Award 2010 Natural
Abstract Prize.
IN THIS
ISSUE
- Day of the Region
- CatStrand Highlights
- Local History with
Ted Cowan
- Dragon Boats
- Afghan Schools Trust
...and much more...
www.glenkensgaze�e.com
Glenkens Gazette
page 2
the Glenkens
communities, and
we are using the
Day of the Region
to promote them
to everyone living
within the Glenkens,
as well as those
further afield around
Dumfries & Galloway.
Day of the Region
Glenkens is gathering
momentum and many
groups and organisations
based in the Glenkens
are already involved.
This is your chance to find out
more about what’s happening
where you live, get involved and
have a go!
There are numerous activities
already happening throughout
From Scroggie Hall
Organic Farm Open Day to micro
chipping for dogs, The Sound of
Brass in Carsphairn to paddling in
Dragon Boats, it’s all happening
in the Glenkens!
Posters and flyers are on display
in the usual places around the
communities of the Glenkens,
telling you about what’s going
on each month, all in the lead up
to the main Day of the Region
weekend on Saturday 1 & Sunday
2 October.
You can also find out
what’s happening by
reading it here in the
Glenkens Gazette!
Look out for the Day
of the Region logo on
the following pages for
features and info on
upcoming events and
activities - the logo
may be for one article
or for the whole page.
Tell us about your events to
be included in the next issue
– contact Ros Hill on 01644
420632/ros.hill@rathanhou
se.co.uk, or David Whyte on
01644 460296/david.whyte@
btinternet.com.
something for their age group
Skate Park Nears Completion had
and seeing the site in use will be a
The Glenkens Youth Group
have raised £4,200 for the
Park over the last 18 months.
This has been through a series of
fundraising activities, and has been
hard work for all those involved,
but also very rewarding.
have had Jimmy McKenna on our
team. His expertise and dedication
has meant this project has come to
fruition.
There is a real sense of excitement
and anticipation in the air and the
kids are eager to get going.
We have been extremely lucky to
It’s high time the young people
Keep your eyes peeled
for a new Cravendale
milk ad filmed in various
locations around the New
Galloway area.
polystyrene! They have also built
a Saxon barn from an old barn by
Waterside...
great reward for all of us involved.
We would like to thank Kate
and Marcus Maxwell for storing
the equipment for such a
long time, Natural Power, St
Margaret’s Ladies Guild and
2014 Communities Fund for
their financial support.
SPOT THE GLENKENS
Apparently the ironage roundhouse
at Clatteringshaws was the
landmark that caught the company’s
eye originally, although they have
actually ended up building their own
roundhouse in nearby woods out of
The ad will be the one after the
‘Cats with Thumbs’ ad currently
running, and the storyline is of a
man sitting in his kitchen with a
cup of tea when he starts to think
about who the first person to
milk a cow may have been, and a
comical story ensues, involving an
ironage fort and Saxon barn… so
keep a look out!
GTI WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE
(registered route)
Outward Journey:
19:00 Dept. Dalry (Underhill)
19:10 New Galloway
19:25 Mossdale
19:35 Laurieston
19:40 Townhead of Greenlaw
19:47 Castle Douglas (Market St)
19:50 Castle Douglas (Tesco)
Return journey:
20:45 Dept. Castle Douglas (Tesco)
20:47 Castle Douglas (Market St)
20:52 Townhead of Greenlaw
21:00 Laurieston
21:10 Mossdale
21:25 New Galloway
21:35 Dalry
To book a GTI bus or for more information please contact keith cooper,
GTI Administrator, on 01644 420374.
The Ironage roundhouse at Clatteringshaws.
FORREST ESTATE
FIREWOOD
Local suppliers of firewood logs,
kindling and chiminea wood.
Hardwood and so�wood
produced from sustainable,
FSC cer�ficated woodland.
Various quan��es available
for collec�on or bulk delivery.
Call for details 01644 430 230
office@forrestestate.com
Glenkens Gazette
page 3
SCOTLAND’S FIRST DRAGON
On Thursday 21 April,
Loch Ken saw the arrival
of the first Dragon Boat
in Scotland.
The eagerly awaited boat arrived
to glorious sunshine, and members
of the Paddlers for Life charity took
the chance to take the boat on her
maiden voyage.
“We are very excited to have the
first permanent Dragon Boat and
team anywhere in Scotland,” said
charity secretary and spokesperson
Raewyn Thomson.
and it is hoped that Paddlers for Life
will be able to offer an opportunity
for locals to keep fit whilst having
fun.
Chairperson for the charity, Lucy
Carlow, said “We are extremely
grateful to Macmillan, LEADER,
Awards for All and the Robertson
Trust for the funding we received to
purchase our first boat and get the
project off the ground.”
“In addition,” said Lucy, “we would
like to thank Richard Herman from
the Galloway Activity Centre at Loch
Paddlers for Life Scotland
South West is a newly
established charity set up
by local people to offer an
accessible and beneficial
sport to those recovering
from cancer as well as
other members of the local
community.
Dragon Boat racing has
become increasingly popular
as a sport in recent years
Dalry Community Council: Members discussed
the proposed donation in respect of the Covenanters
Memorial Stone, and it was agreed to donate £500.
It was noted that the Blackcraig windfarm application
had been approved. There has been no further news
received in relation to the proposed application by
Kindbuild [on the site by the school]. With regard to
Whinneymuir [the site at the top of the village] it was
noted that the Construction Group that DGHP use have
gone into liquidation, which could mean a delay in the
implementation of their building proposals.
A member of the CC attended a meeting dealing with
the ‘Local Development Plan’ for D&G. This is a 20 year
Local Development Plan. Essentially there are 8 main
plan issues – 6 of which affect Dalry. The aim is to find
ways on how to grow the economy in a sustainable
manner. Details/further information can be obtained by
going online to: www.dumgal.gov.uk/LDP. The CC have
prepared a response. Next meeting: no meetings in
June or July.
Ken who has very kindly offered us
the use of its excellent facilities.
The gentle exercise of paddling,
coupled with beautiful surroundings
and good company have been
evidenced worldwide to be of
particular benefit to anyone
recovering from breast cancer and
the related effects of its treatment.
To celebrate the arrival of the
boat at Loch Ken, Paddlers for Life
Scotland South West will be holding
an official launch day later this
summer to allow local people the
opportunity to come and see
the boats in action and try
paddling for themselves.
In the meantime, Paddlers
for Life will be holding weekly
paddling sessions on Sundays
at the Galloway Activity
Centre (see p11).
To find out more, please visit
paddlersforlifescotlandsw.co.
uk or email lindsay@paddlers
forlifescotlandsw.co.uk
discuss the extraction of timber using
the Hidden Road. Next meeting: Mon
1 June, 7pm, & Mon 27 June, 7.30pm,
Balmaclellan Village Hall.
Carsphairn Community Council:
Representatives from Eon and Ayrnet Mark attended
to discuss the proposed Quantans Hill Windfarm.
Applications have been submitted for two 80 metre test
masts; these represent the proposed hub height of the
estimated 20 – 30 turbines.
Eon plans to fund, develop and operate the windfarm,
and will liaise with D&G Council, but the final say is with
Scottish Ministers as the development will be over 50
MW capacity. The Scoping Report is due in June 2011,
after which there will be formal public consultation, and
then a Planning Application in early 2012.
Letters were presented outlining the benefits of a village
pub. It was agreed to approach the existing owner to
determine his current plans, and then assess possible
options.
New Galloway & Kells Community Council: The possibility of completing a community survey
The AGM was held on Mon 9 May - Margaret Sainsbury
supported/funded by the Council is being investigated.
retired as Chairman and there were no nominations for
Its objective would be to determine and prioritise wider
a new Chairman. In the absence of a Chair, Vice Chair
community need and future projects, and to meet
Maybelle Thomson will take on these duties for two
evidence requirements of LEADER for the Community
months. An extraordinary general meeting (EGM) will
Garden. An initial meeting will be arranged.
be held on Mon 11 July in order to resolve this situation. The planning application on Carminnows Plot 3 is going
Next meeting: Mon 13 June, 7.30pm, New Galloway
through due process and should be put before one of
Town Hall.
the May Planning Applications Committee meetings. The
Balmaclellan Community Council: The AGM Environmental Standards Department have dropped the
Dangerous Wild Animals licence condition to identify the
was held on Wednesday 27 April. Clive Brayshaw was
animals, and are now proposing a monthly head count
elected Chairman, Alan Pallister Vice-Chairman, Gillian
by the owner attended quarterly by the Department.
Smith Secretary and Jane Brayshaw Treasurer.
The CC considered this an inadequate way of monitoring
At our regular meeting it was agreed that we would
potential escapees. Next meeting: Mon 27 June, 7pm,
invite Keith Brown, from D&G Council’s Roads
Lagwyne Hall.
Department, to our next meeting (Mon 1 June) to
Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library.
Glenkens Gazette
page 4
Wednesday Afternoons with a Twist
11 Dalry pupils chose a
camp craft activity for
their Wednesday afternoon
activity this term.
The school has a programme of
activities through out the year that
pupils choose to follow for a term
– from flower arranging, sugar craft,
and weaving to tennis, rounders,
and orienteering to name just a few.
The pupils on the camp craft course
had to commit just a bit extra than
is usual however. A lovely walk up
Waterside discussing the equipment
list we would need for camping,
an afternoon of using stoves and
cooking up lots of different one-potmeals in the school playing fields,
then lots of preparation at home to
collect together all that was needed
for an overnight
trip.
Taliesan Camp was
our home for the
night. The pupils
hiked up Screel
Hill before tea,
then cooked up
a meal followed by marshmallows
around the campfire. Thanks to PC
Bradley, our community policeman.
He has helped us with our plans and
guarded camp for us too!
The pupils commented:
“The toilet wasn’t as bad as we
thought”; “...the hill was hard
but the views at the top made it
worthwhile”;“..soggy”; “...yes we’d
do it again”.
The purpose of the sessions was to
challenge the pupils organisational
skills, make do without home
comforts for a night and to cook a
nutritious meal. All in all every body
achieved the goal.
Our next challenge is to do the
same again but to carry all our stuff
to camp!
RED NOSES Music Festival Success
Dalry School raised £330
pounds with their Red Nose
Week activities.
Staff and pupils joined in the fun
with competitions and dressing up.
The finale was the ‘Bomb the
Teacher’ event when pupils launched
over 600 water bombs at their
‘favourite’ teachers!
Animal Magic
Dalry School had a visit recently
from Laura Rennie from Animal
Magic. The work shop was called
Fur, Feathers, Skin & Scales and
pupils learned about the differences
between the five vertebrate groups
using the four B’s – Body Covering,
Breathing, Blood & Babies - learning
about classification with real
animals!
Laura ran two workshops, one for
Dalry Primary had a very successful
Kimberly McAdam took 2nd place
week at the Galloway Music festival.
for her clarinet solo and Joseph
Taylor took 4th place in the other
In the Group Music Making category
instrument solos on drums.
P4/5/6 took 1st place with their
composition of Alice the Camel and
All of the children performed well
Sayenu. In the same category P7
and were a credit to the school.
took 2nd place with
their composition of
Interplanetary Craft.
There were six groups
in this category and the
standard was very high.
The P1/2/3 class took
part in the singing
game and action song
categories and were
commended for the
rhythmical singing
and interesting use of
actions.
1st place for P4,5 & 6 in the Group Music Making
In the soloists section
category.
the P4 – 7’s and another for the
S1 pupils. The pupils learned about
the four B’s for each of the groups
of animals whilst getting to know
and handle the animals Laura had
brought along namely Sui the Galah
cockatoo, Kizzy an African pygmy
hedgehog, Tilly a European green
toad, Huffy a hognose snake, and
Bob a bearded dragon.
Here’s what a selection of the S1’s
thought of the workshop;
“the workshop was my favourite
science class
ever and it
was amazing”;
“great fun whilst
learning” and
“it was really
interesting and
I learnt about
the difference
between toads
and frogs”.
Starting
Them Early
Primary 6 and 7 pupils from Kells
School have enjoyed a series of
coaching sessions during May and
June at the bowling club in Dalry.
The sessions were led by club
member Hamish Sinclair.
Glenkens Gazette
page 5
Busy Calendar for
Carsphairn
the church,
as two of its
members are
involved on a personal level.
Carsphairn Church social group are
holding An Evening of Brass with
Dunaskin Band on Sunday 19 June
at 6.30pm in Carsphairn Church.
A similar event was held last year
and was very successful.
This year donations will be split
between Altzheimers Scotland and
Headway Dumfries. Both charities
are very close to the hearts of
Then on Friday 1 July (date to
be confirmed) there will be an
Alternative Burns’ Supper in
Lagwyn Hall at 6pm. This is for all
the children in the village; think
Burns night - then think Burns’
night with a twist!
This is the time of year Burns died,
not the time of year when he was
born, and for this event children
are welcome and adults have to be
accompanied! Haggis neeps and
Welfare Rights
Benefit Surgeries
Are you getting what you are entitled to?
Unsure which benefits you should be
receiving?
If so we may be able to help - come along to The CatStrand
and get advice from the Benefit Maximisation team who will
be having a series of surgeries.
Please phone The CatStrand on 01644 420 374 to book
your individual appointment (each session lasts 30 mins).
Surgeries will be held on Friday 3 June from 9.30am - 1pm.
tatties are on the
menu but so are
pizza and chips!
There will be fun
Burns’ activities,
including Hunt the Haggis featuring
a ‘Golden Haggis’.
Carsphairn PTC are holding their
annual stall, tombola and raffle
at Carsphairn Show. Donations
of prizes, cakes, plants and other
homemade goodies for the stall
would be gratefully accepted, and
can be left at the school before
Thursday 2 June.
Bird Centre is
Taking Off Dalry’s
Watson Bird
Centre has
now raised £65,000 for the next stage
of the project.
They are currently recruiting for a project officer
for a two year period to be based in Dalry.
Remember to make a note in your diary that
Dalry Bird Festival will run from Friday 30
September to Sunday 2 October.
GLENKENS HORTICULTURAL SHOW
Now that winter is behind
us (or so I hope) it’s time
to sow our seeds, polish
up our trowels and get
planting.
This year the show is on Saturday
20 August in Dalry Town Hall.
Doors open for exhibitors from
Saturday 8am until 9.30am. After
this judging will take place. The
Hall will be open at 2pm to the
general public and at 3.30pm the
presentation of trophies will take
place.
There are classes especially for
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
Young People, but ‘children’ of any
age can enter in the open classes.
The children’s classes are open to
ALL young people aged 4 to 11
even if they are not resident in the
Glenkens.
There is a wide range of craft,
decorative and produce sections
not to mention the popularity of
the homemade wine class.
The ever increasing entries in the
photographic section makes it one
of the fastest growing classes and
this year the subject is ‘Building or
Buildings’.
GLENKENS
MEDICAL PRACTICE
General Medical &
Dispensing Services
The Surgery
High Street
New Galloway
FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL
01644 420234
Schedules, which are free, will be
available in your local Post Offices
and General Stores from May
onwards.
Although the number of entries
was higher last year, the
attendance was slightly lower on
the door than in previous years.
As ever, come along and bring a
friend (or two) to enjoy the day
- and if anyone wishes to donate
a small amount of time to support
the show we would be very happy
to see you.
Joan Berkley,
on behalf of the Glenkens Society
Glenkens Gazette
page 6
CatStrand Highlights
June/July
Highlights
It’s been a very
busy few months here
at CatStrand and we are
hoping to round off our
season with a laugh.
Join us on Wednesday 8 June for
an evening of top Scottish stand
up comedy compared by BBC
Radio regular Susan Morrison &
headlined by Vladimir McTavish
(“Painfully Funny” - The Scotsman)
and supported by John Gavin
(2009 Scottish Comedian of the
Year).
On
Thursday
30 June,
make sure
you catch
Never Let
Me Go,
a film
adapted from Kazuo Ishiguro’s
bestselling Booker Prize short
listed novel of the same name. The
film stars Keira Knightly, Carey
Mulligan and Andrew Garfield.
Our new season kicks off on
Saturday 2 July when we welcome
The Shee;
...an exceptional all
female band with an
adventurous brew of Folk,
Gaelic, Scots & Bluegrass
that has earned them
considerable recognition.
Be sure to look out for our new
Events Guide when it comes out.
Join us on Wednesday 20 July
for The Wood and the Water,
an evening of poetry and music
as artists find creative ways to
respond to aspects of rivers, seas
and forests.
There is an opportunity to see
writer-director Peter Mullan’s
award winning third feature film,
NEDS (18) on Thursday 21 July.
This is a hard-hitting coming of age
tale set in 1970’s Glasgow.
We’re thrilled that the Salsa
Celtica Acoustic Band will be
paying us a visit with the Small
Island Sessions on Friday 29 July.
Audiences can expect
an evening of exciting
border-crossing World
Music that weaves
together the melodies &
rhythms of Scots and Irish
Gaelic Song with that of
Afro–Latin Folkloric Music.
Artist Carol Taylor will be
exhibiting work in the Pyramid
Gallery until Thursday 30 June.
Having grown up in St John’s Town
of Dalry before going on to study
at Edinburgh College of art, Carol
believes that life as a child and
teenager in Dalry had a profound
impact on her as an artist.
We are delighted to be working
alongside The Smithy Tea Rooms,
New Galloway, who will continue to
offer a delicious pre-event suppers
for selected events (including
Vladimir McTavish, The Shee and
Salsa Celtica)
For more Information &
tickets please call the
CatStrand on 01644 420 374
or visit www.catstrand.com
SUPPORT CATSTRAND Farewell & Good Luck!
WHILE YOU SHOP
The Catstrand has
launched a new online
fundraising webshop.
CatStrand is asking its supporters
to shop online at www.buy.at/
CatStrand; any items bought
through the site means money will
be donated to the CatStrand - at no
extra cost to themselves!
Over 150 retailers are accessible
through the webshop, including BT,
Marks & Spencer, Waterstones and
Next.
Many retailers provide
exclusive offers to
CatStrand webshop,
such as discounts or
offering free delivery,
providing more reasons for
supporters to buy products
through CatStrand
webshop.
Rachel Thompson, General Manager
at CatStrand says:
“The webshop facility is such
a simple but effective idea.
We receive a commission on
each purchase you make.
Donating to our organisation
couldn’t be easier!”
Rachel Thompson, who has been
General Manager at The CatStrand
for the past 3 1⁄2 years, is moving
on to pastures new.
She will be taking up a Business
Development post with Natural
Power Consultants at the end of
June.
The whole GCAT organisation
has developed greatly under
Rachel’s leadership, not least the
establishment of The CatStrand as
one of the leading Arts & Visitor
Centres in Scotland.
Everyone involved with GCAT
thanks Rachel for her diligence and
dedication since she joined us and
we all wish her well in her new job.
Brian Edgar,
Chairman of the CatStrand
Management Group
Glenkens Gazette
page 7
NEW PROJECTS FOR AFGHAN
two female teachers.
SCHOOLS TRUST While
visiting Kabul they met
The photograph to the
right shows Godfrey
Smith and Robin Ade of
Glenkens-based charity
Afghan Schools Trust with
Khadija, the coordinator of
its new women’s literacy &
health programme in Lal.
Lal is a 9000ft high district in
Afghanistan’s central Hazarajat
mountains. Khadija started in early
April, and by the end of April she
had organised and started literacy
and health classes for 42 women
aged 15-28.
Funds raised in Galloway are
paying for Khadija and for
up with members of the Ahmad
Shab sufi musicians who performed
with such success at The
CatStrand in 2009.
visit www.afghanschools.org
The Trust has given many
successful talks about their work
- if you would like a talk for your
organisation please ring Godfrey on
01644 420 465 (daytime).
On the same visit,
the Trust also initiated
the building of a
school for 300 children
in Bagh e Bostan in
the far Northwest of
Afghanistan.
The expanding Trust
programme relies on
new donations to pay
for teachers - for more
information please contact
info@afghanschools.org or
Youth Players Rise to the Challenge
The group’s first productions of
2011 were staged at Lochside
Theatre during the Stewartry
Drama Festival and again to a
packed house at The CatStrand.
‘The Dust of the Street’ by Harry
Glass was a challenging play for
young people to perform and
without a doubt the cast rose to
the challenge. They were praised
by the adjudicator for portraying
the intense emotion of the
piece and holding the audience
throughout, particularly in the
very moving final scene. The cast
was: Dylan Blore, Lowena Lindsay,
Cameron Lindsay, Kirstin Stalker,
Jordan Pears and Josie Oliver.
‘Round the World with Class Six’
by Nick Warburton is a festival
favourite which is great fun to
perform and rehearse. However,
it sets it’s own challenges,
demanding excellent timing
and teamwork. The cast had
the audience enthralled as they
changed their classroom scene into
a sailing ship and ‘sailed around
Round the World with Class Six
the world’. The adjudicator praised
the production for the excellent
movement, comedy timing and
voice projection throughout and
genuinely believed that the cast
were enjoying themselves just as
much as the audience obviously
were! The cast was: Eilidh Stalker,
Hannah Daly, Eilidh Thomson, Zoe
Kirkpatrick, Liza-Beth Brannock,
Emily Jones & Téa Oliver.
Unfortunately neither of the
teams progressed to the Western
Finals this time around. However,
everyone thoroughly enjoyed
taking part and judging by the
reaction of the audiences at
each performance, they greatly
appreciated both plays.
The Youth Players will close the
current season at the CatStrand on
Friday 3 June with an evening of
three one act plays.
The evening opens with ‘Five
Green Bottles’ by Ray Jenkins, a
comedy set in a seemingly ordinary
household caught up in the early
morning rush of breakfast and
getting out to work and school.
‘Fireflies’ by Harry Glass was
written just after the Chernobyl
disaster in 1986 and it somehow
seemed appropriate to perform
it again to mark the 25th
anniversary. The recent events in
Japan, of course, have made the
subject matter very relevant again.
The play looks at the after effects
of the nuclear disaster, through the
eyes of the children involved, with
that unique mixture of pathos and
humour that only
Harry Glass can
achieve.
The evening
ends with ‘Sweet F A’ by Mark
Wheeller. This is based on the true
story of Southampton girl, Sarah
Stanbury, and her struggle to gain
recognition as a football player in
the 1980’s. It is in documentary
theatre style which re-enacts
various significant episodes in the
development of Sarah’s football
career and the hurdles, natural
and man-made, which she had to
overcome on the way to the top.
We hope that the contrasting styles
of each play will make for a very
enjoyable evening of theatre with
something to suit everyone.
The Youth Players will not
be meeting in June, July and
August and will start again for
the new season on Sunday 4
September.
Dust of the Street
Glenkens Gazette
page 8
DOUBLE TRAVEL
Monday 28 March was
another important day for
GTI – the first trip with
the new bus and with
every seat taken!
We visited Callender House, near
Falkirk, in lovely spring sunshine
– a very interesting house with
everyone enjoying a perfect day
(photo on right).
Friday 8 April saw the GTI
Committee celebrate two birthdays
by abandoning the usual form of
transport and walking round the
lead mines at Carsphairn (photo
on left). Snippets
of local information
from Bob Peace
added to an
interesting afternoon
– the two birthday
cakes and other
refreshments that
followed being well
deserved!
increasingly popular and we
are trying to fix dates further
in advance – other trips will be
added but you might like to make
a note of these dates already fixed;
Sunday 10 July – Highland
Games in Stirling; Sunday 5
Sept – Portpatrick Folk Festival;
Tuesday 20 Sept – Farmers
Market, Penrith. Bookings are
only allowed from the date given
on the poster but please book early
to avoid disappointment.
We have also added an extra
clause to the fees covering Hire
Charges which allows users to use
a vehicle for £10 for the first six
hours and thereafter £3 an hour up
to a maximum of £40 per 24 hour
period – this will no doubt help
those thinking of using a vehicle for
a week-end away.
School Bus Driver Needed –
Term Time Mornings Only: From
the beginning of the new term in
August, we need someone to drive
our mini bus to provide transport
for children from the Mossdale
area to Kells Primary School. This
takes just over one hour each day
for which the driver is paid – if you
are not already one of our drivers
training will be given. If you are
interested, please contact either
Keith Cooper or Roy Hooker on
01644 420 374.
Future Trips and
Use of Buses:
Trips are becoming
SCARECROW WORKSHOP SUCCESS
The Scarecrow workshop is the first
in a series of garden themed activities
that aim to encourage more people/
families to think about growing their
own fruit and vegetables.
It was a damp and miserable day so the session
was held at New Galloway Town Hall instead of the
allotment site and, under the excellent supervision
of Julie Aitkin, 10 quirky characters were created.
It was a lovely day and every one present had a
great time.
Thanks to all the ladies that helped the little ones
with the tricky sewing bits!
Also a big thanks to Laurence Oliver for being our
judge.
The Clog & Shoe
Workshop
unique handmade footwear
open 10am - 5pm weekdays
Easter Mon to 31st October
please ring to arrange a visit at
other times
Tel: 01644 420 465
visit our new online shop at
www.clogandshoe.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 9
Community
CARSPHAIRN COMMUNITY GARDEN Carsphairn
Garden is supported by
the Dumfies & Galloway
CONTINUES TO GROW
LEADER Programme, Stewartry
After a break for the
winter weather, activity
in Carsphairn Community
Garden got underway
again in late March.
More trees and shrubs have been
planted, plinths for a notice board
and a viewing point have been
built by Knockengorroch dyker Bill
Holmes, and a solar panel and mini
wind turbine have been installed to
power the garden’s lighting
David Richmond of the Garden SubGroup explained:
“We’re just about to install three
park benches and two picnic tables
made by local craftsman Kevin
Johnston, so even though there’s
still more planting and
laying of turf to be
completed, people can
now start to visit and
enjoy the garden.”
The original official
opening for the end
of June has now been
postponed to the end
of September, but the
Garden will be available
for locals and visitors
alike to walk around and
appreciate throughout
the summer months.
Area Committee and Carsphairn
Windfarm Community Fund.
Mums and children from Carsphairn Church Sunday
School egg rolling in the Garden at Easter.
CATSTRAND: COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE
The CatStrand was the location for the
fourth in a series of project visits run
by the Scottish National Rural Network,
who aim to connect rural Scotland and
promoting rural growth.
The visit focussed on community enterprise and
brought together a group of people involved in
similar activities from around rural Scotland to share
experiences and ideas.
Rural Network Coordinator Matt Tyrer said:
“The CatStrand is a really inspiring place. Not only
does it provide a fantastic venue for a whole range of
activities, but with the community bus and newsletters
also being managed by GCAT they can ensure people
know about what is happening and can get to the
venue from around the surrounding area.”
Presentations were given on the background, funding
and development of GCAT and the CatStrand, and
what is happening at the CatStrand now, as well as
future plans.
Plenty of time was given for the visiting group
to wander around the venue and investigate the
facilities, as well as there being lots of opportunity
to ask questions and discuss some of the issues and
ideas coming out of the presentations.
Then, for an insight into what the team at GCAT are
taking on next, the group took a trip on the community
bus to see the Watson Bird Centre in Dalry.
This looks set to be another significant
redevelopment and future project which
will undoubtedly benefit hugely from
the expertise
and experience
gained in the
development of
the CatStrand.
The visit finished
over a lovely lunch
in the CatStrand’s
Pyramid Gallery and
café, another informal
opportunity to carry
on the conversations
and exchange contact
details before setting
off home.
KENBRIDGE HOTEL
New Galloway
W BONE
WHB JEEPS
THE GARAGE, DALRY
PETROL & DIESEL SALES
SERVICE & REPAIRS
MOTs, TYRES, BATTERIES
Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP
Solicitors and Estate Agents
01556 503744
www.ggblaw.co.uk
OFFICES IN :
CASTLE DOUGLAS, DALBEATTIE
KIRKCUDBRIGHT & DUMFRIES
Open 7 Days : Beauti
Beautiful Riverside Location
TRADITIONAL LOG FIRE
M E A L S S E RV E D
12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm
bed and breakfast
en suite accommodation
ALL AT COMPETITIVE PRICES
OPEN 8.30AM - 6.00PM (SIX DAYS)
10AM - 6PM SUNDAYS
SHOP • SANDWICH BAR • LOTTERY
01644 420 211
Tel: 01644 430208 Fax: 01644 430669
www.kenbridgehotel.co.uk
email: jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk
mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 10
DALRY ILLUMINATIONS
After nearly 18 months
of planning and design,
Dalry Town Hall has just
completed the installation
of a new eco-efficient
heating system and new
and upgraded state of the
art interior and exterior
lighting.
Chairman Mark Stoves explains:
“The Hall’s previous heating
system was over 20 years old
and was inefficient, particularly
in the winter months, and
relatively expensive to use.
We needed to install a better
system, and grants were
available from Community
Energy Scotland.”
The hall, originally built in 1859,
features a beautiful wood panelled,
vaulted ceiling which makes the
hall a fabulous acoustic space for
concerts and recitals, but also
causes a lot of wasted heat.
The Hall now features eight new
wall-mounted radiators, together
with two ceiling-mounted fans for
distributing warm air back into the
hall.
During this period the committee
also secured funding to improve
and upgrade the hall lighting.
Mr Stoves explains further:
“The hall is a beautiful building
set back from the main road
on a large plot of land in the
centre of the village, but it has
not been illuminated at night
and the existing interior lighting
consisted of six old flourescent
battens and two floodlights,
which did not help to create
a welcoming or creative
atmosphere.
“With the added benefit
of the recently installed
double glazing, new padded
seating, flexible portable
staging system and the newly
refurbished kitchen, the Hall is
now even more comfortable to
members of the public and is
a great venue for all kinds of
events - old and new!”
The outside
lights on the
Hall will run
on a timer
until after the
Clachan Fair
week, after
which the Hall
will only by
lit up when
there is an
event on - so
when you see
that the Hall is
illuminated, pop down and see
what’s going on!
Anyone wishing to book the Hall
should contact Mr Stoves on 07850
193807, mark.stoves@btinternet.c
om or visit www.st-john’s-town-ofdalry-town-hall.co.uk.
and to date have
Helping You Go Greener recycling,
generated over £6 million for
The CatStrand is going even greener and helping you go greener too!
The venue has recently joined two recycling
programmes, becoming a collection point for used
batteries, old mobile phones and used print cartridges.
Through the collection of these items,
waste and pollution can be reduced, as
well as funds being raised for charity.
The organisation that recycles the mobile phones and
print cartridges is Recycling Appeal, based in Falkirk
(www.recyclingappeal).
Recycling Appeal collects
mobile phones and printer
cartridges for reuse and
charities and good causes.
The battery recycling is through an organisation called
Battery Back (www.batteryback.org) who allow people
to easily recycle their batteries for free. The growing
number of BatteryBack collection points will help Britain
to meet its recycling targets (we need to increase our
battery recycling from the current 2.8% to over 25% by
2012 and over 45% by 2016 to meet targets).
So come along with your old and unwanted
batteries, mobiles and cartridges, and feel good
about helping the environment and raising money
for charity at the same time!
Glenkens Gazette
page 11
Dalry Clachan Fair
Sunday 5 June to Saturday 11 June
Some great events are
planned for this year’s
Clachan Fair and there
should be something for
everyone!
Sunday: Donkey Open Day &
BBQ, Songs of Praise
Monday: Treasure Hunt
Tuesday: Quiz Night
Wednesday: Scottish Night
Thursday: Pet Show
Friday: Domino Night, Junior
Disco
Saturday: Parade Day, Stalls,
Games, Best Dressed House
and lots more fun.
but depends solely
on fundraising and
donations.
The new heating
and lighting show
how well any extra funds can be
used.
There’s also a tennis
competition planned and
team games.
For details of how to join in the
individual events, watch out
for posters around the village
and the Fair Programme. These
dates are pretty definite but
might be subject to change.
All the proceeds go to maintain
the Town Hall, which gets no
money from the local council
Paddlers for Life Events ALTERNATIVE
You don’t have to
have paddled before
to come along - just
come and meet us and
have some fun!
confirm by email with lindsay
@paddlersforlifescotlandsw.c
o.uk at the beginning of each
week if you plan to attend the
paddling session, so we know
how many to expect.
Wear trainers/crocs, water-proof
jacket and comfortable trousers
(not jeans), and bring a change
of clothes. You don’t have to be a
good swimmer either – buoyancy
aids, paddles and safety boat cover
provided.
Sunday 5 June, 10am paddling.
IMPORTANT – Please
SPALDING
BOWLING CLUB
The Club opened on
Thursday 16 June.
Marie Davie, the President’s wife,
threw the Silver Jack and delivered
the first two bowls. She then
declared the green open for play,
and wished everyone an enjoyable
and sucessful season.
Further dates will be confirmed
at a later stage or by checking
for updates on paddlersforli
fescotlandsw.co.uk or email
lindsay@paddlersforlifescotland
sw.co.uk.
Glenkens
Walking
Groups
The Glenkens Ramblers meet on
Mondays for a moderate walk
taking around two hours.
There was a good turnout of
members and friends and, after a
cup of tea, 24 people had a game.
The Glenkens Walkers meet on
Wednesdays for an easier walk
taking around 90 minutes.
Anybody who would like to come and
have a go is most welcome - there
is a sweep game on Mondays &
Saturdays starting at 7pm.
Liz Peacock
Both groups meet at 1.30pm
outside the Bank of Scotland
in Dalry. Lists of walks are
displayed in shops in Dalry
and New Galloway.
Contacts: John & Isobel on
430 539, Gerry on 420
852,Peter on 420 419 and
Elizabeth on 430 581.
GAMES 2011
Line-up: New Galloway
Ceilidh, Fri 5 Aug, 8.30pm, £6/4.
Kick off the Alternative Games
weekend and enjoy the best of
Scots Hospitality with a ceilidh in
the Town Hall.
Scottish Alternative Games, Sun 7
Aug, Games start at 2pm, £4/1 - pay
at the gate. New Galloway’s quirky
annual summer event returns for its
11th year in the town. A fun day out
for all the family with all of the usual
favourites including the official Gird
n’ Cleek World Championship, Hurlin’
the Curlin’ Stane, Balmaclellan
Skittles, Tractor Pull, Tug ‘o War,
Archery and Snail Racing!
Surreal McCoy: Big Rory & Ochie,
Sun 7 Aug. As part of the Alternative
Games, Catstrand are delighted to
bring you Big Rory and his dog Ochie
- guaranteed to entertain!
Glenkens Gazette
page 12
Glenkens Allotment
Awarded Grant
The Glenkens Community
Garden and Allotment, a
GCAT project, has been
lucky enough to secure a
grant from The Climate
Challenge Fund.
A site in New Galloway will be
transformed into productive plots
to enable more people to grow their
own. The community garden will
have a number of small beds for
anyone interested in getting into
growing vegetables but daunted by
the idea of having a plot.
Over the year the group
will be running a series of
sessions, from teaching
the basics of how to grow
from seed, to making a
composter, pruning fruit
trees, and jam and chutney
talk and taster.
If anyone would like to come along
and share their knowledge and skills
or would be interested in taking on
an allotment, please get in touch.
The site is open to anyone in the
Glenkens. So far we have had
interest from Carsphain, Dalry and
New Galloway.
We are very excited by this
development - growing
your own vegetables is not
only good for your pocket,
but increases your physical
activity and general health
and wellbeing, as well
as being good for the
environment.
reducing food waste, recycling,
composting and being more aware
of our behaviour and consumption
levels.
Simply by being more aware
and conscious of our patterns of
behaviour, we can start to plan
menus, shopping journeys, etc,
and reduce waste, reduce petrol
consumption and save money - and
at the same time reduce our carbon
footprint.
We would like to welcome
the new Community Garden &
Allotment Project Development
Officer, Wendy Fenton. Wendy
lives in Corsock and brings with
her experience of smallholding
We have a number of CO2 reducing
targets to meet which
involve eating more
local seasonal food,
Raising Awareness
KEEPING ENERGY
IN THE COMMUNITY of Brain Injury
With more windfarms going up around
the area, the role of communities in
relation to the production of power is
something frequently under discussion.
It really boils down to the question of:
...if there are going to be turbines, shouldn’t
the community they are situated in see
maximum benefit rather than a large
corporation from outwith the area?
There are many ways communities may benefit from the
production of power in their area.
Roland Chaplin, member of the Glenkens Sustainable
Development Steering Group (GSDSG), says:
“There area models giving members of the community
individual share stakes in one or more turbines...Another
option which a growing number of communities are
exploring is outright ownership of one or more turbines,
or even of the whole project, with the local community
borrowing the initial capital.
“This last option means that once the initial borrowing
has been paid off, the rest is a straight profit for the
community.”
There are many ideas out there, and various new options
for communities arising all the time. If you would like to
find out more about how your community can become
more involved, contact Roland on 01644 420 361 or
roland@glenkensbb.co.uk.
A Carsphairn villager sustained a
brain injury last July, and his family
want to raise awareness of Brain
Injury.
From Monday 9 to Sunday 15 May is Brain Injury
Week, which includes Hats for Headway Day on
Friday 13 May.
While Action for Brain Injury Week
is a great opportunity to raise
awareness of brain injury and its
effects, there’s still plenty of time to
have fun - and what better way than
with Hats for Headway Day!
The school in carsphairn took part in Brain Injury
week, which included a session with the schools
outreach worker from Headway Dumfries, and
taking part in a non-uniform day while wearing a
hat.
Carrick’s of Carsphairn shop also
took part in the fun. They provided
customers with hats to raise money,
and those who didn’t have a hat had
to pay a forfeit!
Photos and more information will be in the next
issue of the Glenkens Gazette.
Glenkens Gazette
page 13
LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN
Robert Burns
in the Glenkens
Burns was
keen to visit
Airds to
see the
views
the bard, who was “a friendly
that had
Summer is a time to welcome inspired Lowe. Kenmure suggested they looking body”, wearing kneevisitors to our glen.
all take his barge, named Glenkens, down breeches and peculiar long
At the end of July 1793 Robert Burns
the loch. A man named Carson reported boots.
and his good friend John Syme spent a
that the party comprised himself,
The water was too low for a dry landing
few days here.
Kenmure, Syme, Burns and Rev John
and so while others jumped, Burns
Gillespie the aged minister of Kells.
stumped through the mud with his
Leaving Dumfries they called on the
reverend cargo. Syme again joked at his
Glendonwyns (Glendinnings) at Parton, Unfortunately before they
friend’s expense. This time Rab was in
viewing Airds across the Ken in homage reached their destination the
better fettle. Gazing upon the beauty of
to John Lowe, the tragic poet who
vessel grounded.
his surroundings he proclaimed: “This
composed the highly popular song,
place would make a blockhead into a
‘Mary’s Dream’. By nightfall they reached Everyone else used oars to vault
ashore; only Burns and Gillespie
poet!”. Mr Murdoch later built a house in
Kenmure Castle staying for three days.
remained. According to Joseph Train’s
Balmaclellan. He died in 1882 aged 96.
Their host was John Gordon whose
rather elaborate version of the story
grandfather was executed for his role
Both Carson and Murdoch doubtless
Burns, “...his eyes beaming, and his
in the Jacobite rebellion of 1715 and
believed their own stories yet they recall
face suffused, sprang at once over the
hence his title was in abeyance, though
different versions of the same event.
boat’s gunwhale, knee-deep in mud,
he was still known locally as Kenmure.
The choice, dear Reader, is yours! Each
and grasping the old gentleman with
They then took the hill road from
echoes the other, which is appropriate
Lauriston (Clachanpluck) to Gatehouse, outstretched arms, he half dragged him
because the one poem to come out
on to his back and bore him ashore’.
in torrential rain.
of the Glenkens visit was an epitaph
Syme exclaimed in jocular mode that
“On the Death of Echo, a lap-dog”
A major preoccupation of the Burns was the last man he expected to
requested by Mrs Gordon on behalf of
trip was the issue of Burns’
see “priest-ridden” but the poet did not
her deceased pet. As Syme related, Burns
boots...
join in the mirth, grimly plodding on
disliked the subject, “but to please the
through the reeds with his godly burden. lady he would try”. He did, but not very
The poet, who was something of a
dandy, had purchased a new pair at a
A different version, set on the other
hard:
cost of 22 shillings, an enormous sum at bank of the Ken, was told to Captain
a time when a day labourer earned one
Cunningham Graham of Dalarran, in
“In wood and wild, ye warbling throng,
shilling a day (less in winter). According
his house, by Murdoch of Drumwhirn
to Syme, Burns was in a mood as foul as (on the Corsack-Moniaive road) who
Your heavy loss deplore;
the weather all the way to Kirkcudbright, was, at the time, the ferryboat boy.
after leaving Kenmure, because his fine
Murdoch recalled that he was summoned Now half extinct your powers of song,
top-boots were ruined through being
to ferry over the river, Kenmure, Syme,
Sweet Echo is no more.”
soaked and subsequently shrunk while
Gillespie and Rev Thomson, minister of
drying. However there are at least three
Balmaclellan, all of whom were intent
Have a great summer!
other versions, all related, of what
upon paying a visit to the Holm.
Ted Cowan
happened to the booted bard.
He particularly remembered
FHB Fencing
Dalry
Domestic and
Agricultural
Fencing
01644 430 495 (Peter)
or 07767 795 498
(Jonathan)
New Galloway
Golf Club
Founded 1902
www.nggc.co.uk
v 01644 420737 v
Buggies now available for hire
VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS
WELCOME
Glenkens Gazette
page 14
GLENKENS DIARY
Sat 11, Willow Weaving, 104pm, £50, CatStrand, New
Galloway
JUNE
Sat 14 May to Thurs 30 June,
Exhibition: Carol Taylor, CatStrand,
New Galloway
Mon 1, Balmaclellan CC Meeting,
7pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall
Thurs 2, Golf: Belhaven Senior Mens
Open, New Galloway Golf Club
Fri 3, Benefit Advice Surgeries
– phone to book, 9.30am-1pm,
CatStrand, New Galloway
Fri 3, Youth Players Performance,
CatStrand, New Galloway
Sat 4, Carsphairn Show, 8am
sheepdog trials, 10am sheep
judging, 2pm pet show, Carsphairn
Sun 5, Paddlers for Life, 10am –
paddling, Galloway Activity Centre,
see p11
Sun 5, Clachan Fair Donkey Open
Day & BBQ, Songs of Praise
Sat 11, Clachan Fair Parade
Day - stalls, games, Best Dressed
House and lots more fun (see p11)
Mon 13, Kells CC Meeting,
7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall
Sun 19, An Evening of Brass
with Dunaskin Band, 6.30pm,
Carsphairn Church
Mon 27, Balmaclellan CC Meeting,
7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall
Thurs 30, Film: Never Let Me Go,
7.30pm, £5/4, CatStrand, New
Galloway
JULY
Friday 1 (date to be
confirmed), Alternative Burns
Supper: Burns Night with a Twist
for Kids, 6pm, Lagwyn Hall
Sat 9, Build a Garden Composter,
10.30am- 1pm, FREE, CatStrand/
Community Garden
Tues 7, Clachan Fair Quiz Night
Sat 2 July to Thurs 11 August,
Exhibition: Gwendol Gains,
CatStrand, New Galloway
Wed 8, Clachan Fair Scottish
Night
Sat 2, The Shee, 7.30pm, £10/8,
CatStrand, New Galloway
Wed 8, Susan Morrison &
Vladimir McTavish, 7.30pm, £10/8,
CatStrand, New Galloway
Sat 9, Cafe Connect, 7pm, FREE,
CatStrand, New Galloway
Mon 6, Clachan Fair Treasure Hunt
Thurs 9, Clachan Fair Pet Show
Mon 11, Kells CC EGM, 7.30pm,
New Galloway Town Hall
Fri 10, Clachan Fair Domino Night,
Junior Disco
Tues 12, Puppet Making &
Movement, 10am-3pm, £12,
Real Dog Training
“Is your dog ruining your life?”
REAL solutions for REAL problems in
REAL situations to make
a REAL difference.
T. H. CARSON
BUTCHERS
See us at Dalry Farmers
Market on 2nd Sat each month.
Eric Broadhurst (NDOA
Advanced Instructor)
We can deliver to your door call us any time up to the Friday
before the Farmers Market, and
we will deliver on the Saturday,
afternoon.
35 years dog trainer to the TV
and film industry
01556 610384
CALL ERIC NOW
Home: 01644 460670
Mobile: 07831 590822
CatStrand, New Galloway
Sat 16, Jams & Chutney Talk,
10.30am-12pm, £2.50, CatStrand,
New Galloway
Sat 16, Pruning Workshop,
1.30-4pm, £5, CatStrand, New
Galloway
Wed 20, The Wood and The
Water, 7.30pm, £8/6, CatStrand,
New Galloway
Thurs 21, Film: NEDS, 7.30pm,
£5/4, CatStrand, New Galloway
Fri 29, Salsa Celtica, 7.30pm,
£12/10, CatStrand, New Galloway
AUGUST
Fri 5, New Galloway Ceilidh with
Robert Menzies Ceilidh Band,
8.30pm, NG Town Hall
Sun 7, Scottish Alternative
Games, 2pm, NG Park
Sat 13, Glenkens Show, Mains of
Kenmure, New Galloway
Sat 20 Aug, Glenkens
Horticultural Show, Dalry Town
Hall, doors open for exhibitors at
8am to 9.30am on Sat, and the
Hall will be open to the public
at 2pm, trophy presentation at
3.30pm.
SEPTEMBER
Fri 30 Sep to Sun 2 Oct, Dalry
Bird Festival – a date for your
diaries!
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Glenkens Gazette
page 15
WHAT’S GOING ON IN JUNE & JULY ...BE PART OF IT
REGULAR EVENTS:
Glenkens Ramblers: Mon,
1.30pm, outside the Bank,
Dalry
Scouts: Mon, 7–8.30pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Mother & Toddlers: Tues,
9.45-11.15am, New Galloway
Town Hall
Beavers: Tues, 6.30–7.45pm,
New Galloway Scout Hut
Glenkens Walking Group:
Wed, 1.30pm, outside the
Bank, Dalry
Stewartry Camera Club:
Wed, 7.30pm, The Tolbooth,
Kirkcudbright
Mossdale Painters: Wed,
9.30am, Mossdale Village Hall
Cub Scouts: Wed, 6.45–8pm,
New Galloway Scout Hut
Thursday Lunch Club:
12.30pm, New Galloway Town
Hall, fortnightly starting 6 Jan,
£3, contact - Raymond Vincent,
01644 420451.
Lions Club monthly quiz:
alternating between The
CatStrand & Lochinvar Hotel,
contact - Andrew Frew, 01644
420 323
The CatStrand, New
Galloway (01644 420 374) :
Exercise to Music: Mon, 1011am
Play it by Ear: Mon during term
time, 1.30-2.30pm
Children’s Dance Classes
with Margaret Morris
Movement: Mon during term
time, 3.15-4pm (pre-school), 45pm (ages 8-12)
CatStrand Playstation
Tournaments: contact The
CatStrand for info.
Dalry Community
Centre (contact - Sarah on
01644 430 393) :
Glenkens Playgroup: Mon-Fri,
9.15-11.45am (contact - Julie
Moore 01644 460 687)
Carers Coffee & Chat: Tues,
10am-12noon
Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm
& Wed, 7-9pm
Teen Spirit: Tues during term
time, 7.30-9.30pm
Ballroom & Latin Dance dropin class: Mon, 7.30-9pm, £5
Taking the First Step in
Computing: Wed, 5.30-7.30pm
Ballroom & Latin Dance
course: Mon, 9-10pm, for more
info tel Sam Hood on 01644
420672
Zumba: Wed: 7.30-8.30pm,
New Galloway Town Hall, £4
Gentle Yoga & Relaxation:
Thurs, 10-11.15am
Sing it Out: Singing Workshop:
Thurs, 11.30am-12.30pm
Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri
each month, 2pm
Saturday Art Club: 2nd Sat
each month, 10am–12noon
Circus Skills Swapping Share:
3rd Sun of the month, 1-3pm
CHURCH OF
SCOTLAND
3pm: Conventicle in Dalry
Churchyard.
Special Services/
Events: 2 June, 6.30pm:
Ascension Day service, Dalry
Church. 5 June, 6.30pm:
Clachan Fair Songs of Praise
with Sanquhar & District
Silver Band on Newfield
Green outside Dalry Church.
19 June, 6.30pm: Concert
with Dunaskin Brass Band,
Carsphairn Church. 26 June ,
SCOTTISH
EPISCOPAL CHURCH
(C of E): St Margaret’s,
New Galloway: Holy
Communion - 10.30am every
Sun & Wed.
CATHOLIC CHURCH
SERVICES: Gatehouse of
Fleet: Sat, 6pm. Kirkcudbright:
Sun, 9.30am. Dalbeattie:
Sun, 11am. St Ninian’s, Castle
Douglas: Rev McFadden 01557 330687.
Sundays: Balmaclellan:
12noon 1st, Carsphairn:
10.30am 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th(Jul),
Dalry: 9am 1st 2nd 3rd 4th,
Kells: 10.30am 2nd 3rd 4th
Catstrand Youth Players: Sun
during term time from 3-5pm
Communion Service:
3 July, 10.15am Carsphairn
Church (using central table).
Dalry
Library
Tue:
2 - 4.30pm
then 5.30 - 7.30pm
Fri:
11:15am - 1:15pm
then 2 - 4.30pm
23 mobile library stops
- to find out where and
when call 430 234
Good Neighbours Club: Tues,
2pm
Kickback Martial Arts: Tues
& Thurs, 7-9pm, both adults &
children welcome
Glenkens Mother & Toddlers:
Wed, 1.30-3pm
Craft Class: Thurs, 2-4pm
Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm
Guides: Wed, 5.30-7pm
USEFUL NUMBERS:
● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000
● Local Police: 0845 600 5701
● Doctors: 01644 420 234
● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24
● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000
Gaze�e Adver�sing Rates
6cm x 6cm - £31.50 per issue
(10% series discount)
1/4 page (9cm w x 13cm h) - £68.25
(25% series discount)
1/2 page (18cm w x 13cm h) - £126
(25% series discount)
Full Page (18cm w x 27cm h) - £210
(25% series discount)
Glenkens Gazette
page 16
LORNA WILLOCK’S 5 TIPS FOR BETTER HEALTH
With diabetes on the increase
here are a few ideas for balancing
blood sugar levels:
1 - Watch the amount of sugar in foods.
Many foods not even regarded as sweet
may contain sugar, e.g. soup, salad
dressings, ready meals. Many cereals
are also very high in sugar - take a look
at the labels.
2 - Don’t skip breakfast or you may end
up snacking on something fatty and/or
sugary later, e.g. biscuits, cake.
3 - Have lots of little meals – this will
maintain stability with blood sugar
levels and not overtax digestion
4 - Try omitting sugar from tea and
coffee – try cutting down gradually.
Generally we take sugar if we were
given it in the first place, and may
actually prefer our drinks without.
5 - Cut back on sweet snacks – sugar
is highly addictive and sweet foods give
us a buzz, and we feel low and tired
afterwards. It is an illusion that sugar
gives us energy, as these foods deplete
energy in the long-term.
Lorna is a qualified nutritionist
& dietician. For more info see
www.foods4life.co.uk or call
Lorna on 01644 470218.
carricks of
carsphairn
Convenience Store and Tea Room/Garden
A warm welcome awaits customers old and new!
Enjoy a browse around the shop, which stocks all your
daily requirements. Post Office open 11am to 1pm
Monday to Saturday. Locally made woollens, gifts and
cards available.
Enjoy a light meal in the Tea Room, which is open
all year round (except Christmas Day). Our menu has
something for most tastes including home-made pies,
scones and soups. Our garden has the most wonderful
views all year round...
We are open:
Mon to Fri
7am - 6pm
UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP
AND NOW RE-OPENED FOLLOWING
REFURBISHMENT
Stag’s Head:
traditional pub offering bar snacks, hot and cold beverages
DG’s Bistro:
serving bistro and bar food in a relaxed se�ing
St. John’s Restaurant:
Elegant dining with a tempting a la carte menu
Food served all day
Sunday Lunch served 12-8pm
We cater for functions and parties
Saturdays
8am - 6pm
Sundays
9am - 5pm
St. John’s town of Dalry
Tel: 01644430107 www.lochinvarhotel.co.uk
Glenkens
Agricultural Society
4th
Annual Show
Saturday 13th August
Mains of Kenmure, New Galloway
Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Poultry,
Horses, Gymkhana, Fancy
Dress Pony, Pets & Dogs, Stalls,
Refreshments, Free Bouncy Castle
& Entertainment.
For entry form or more info. contact
Andrea Ramsay on 01644 430509
The Fleet Fish van is in the Glenkens
on Tuesdays & Wednesdays every
week. Anyone wishing me to call,
please phone Mary on above mobile no.
WRITE FOR THE GAZETTE! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, re-
views, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... If you have a submission, contact Sarah Ade on 07727
127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk . AUG/SEPT COPY DEADLINE: Mon 4 July
This publication is
designed & co-ordinated
by Sarah Ade (sarah_
ade@tiscali.co.uk) and
printed by the Stranraer
& Wigtownshire Free
Press (www.stranraerfreepress.co.uk).
The Glenkens Gaze�e is an ini�a�ve of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Sco�sh Charity No. SC032050
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2011
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Editor: Sarah Ade
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<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> </span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p>
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GLENKENS GAZETTE
news from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry
August/September 2011
ISSUE 65
FREE
CLOSE CALL FOR CLUBHOUSE
New Galloway Golf Club’s Clubhouse
nearly got flattened by a tree in
recent winds.
In these pictures taken by the Greenkeeper,
you can see that a section of tree nearly hit the
clubhouse.
It fell onto the first tee box causing severe
damage to it and to the Captain’s van parked
underneath...with a slightly different trajectory,
it would have hit the Clubhouse. A very lucky
escape...
Puddle Jumping
Dalry Nursery and Primary
has held their annual
Sports Day and, even
though the weather was
against them,
the children still
enjoyed their
activities.
for their house
teams.
The winning
house this year was Kenbank and
the girl sports champion was Sabrina
in P6 and the boys sports champions
was Michael in P7.
The school would like to thank
Newton’s shop in Dalry, Tesco
and the Co-op for providing fruit
and water for refreshments and
parents, friends and members of
the community that came along
to support the school despite the
weather.
Pictured: winners - Kenbank.
The morning included
a variety of sporting
activities including
throwing, jumping and
agility.
The Nursery held their
sports during this time
too. This had been
organised by the Active
Schools Co-ordinator
and was a great
success.
The afternoon session
included traditional
races. All the activities
added up to earn points
Turn to page 4 for the new ...
sponsored by
A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve
www.glenkensgaze�e.com
Glenkens Gazette
page 2
A Big Welcome to Sean Paul
The Glenkens Community
and Arts Trust (GCAT) are
delighted to announce the
appointment of a new General
Manager, Sean Paul O’Hare.
Everyone involved with GCAT would
like to give Sean Paul a big welcome,
and we hope that he enjoys his time
here in the Glenkens.
Sean Paul has a background
in community arts and social
development with a wealth of
experience in festivals and events in
both Belfast and Edinburgh where he
has recently produced the Beltane
Fire Festival.
Sean Paul has overall responsibility
for the management and
development of GCAT projects which
include The CatStrand, GTI, Glenkens
Gazette, Watson Bird Centre and the
Glenkens Community Garden.
Sean Paul says: “Having previously
worked in the community sector for
over 15 years, in subjects ranging
from drug-awareness campaigns
right through to community arts
projects, I am a strong advocate of
community and art organisations.
It’s really great to
be here and I hope
I can help sustain
and advance
the brilliant
programmes, work
and projects within
GCAT and thus
throughout the
Glenkens area. I
think the work that goes on in this
area across the arts and community
sector needs further recognition and
support from both local and regional
government bodies, and I hope to
see that achieved.”
Dalry Community Council: A main issue
Our skilled head chef uses the best local
produce including Galloway beef, Craigadam
lamb and venison, cheese from Rowan Glen and
fish from the Galloway Smokehouse.
With a warm and friendly atmosphere,
outstanding food and lovely locals, it’s no
wonder The Clachan Inn is fast becoming the
place to be in the Glenkens.
currently facing all our local CC’s is windfarm
revenues - who’s going to manage them on our
behalf, and will we get a fair deal for our community.
Dalry CC will be holding a by-election due to a
shortfall in our numbers to one below the minimum
of six. Next meetings: 7pm, Dalry Town Hall provisional dates are Mon 8 Aug & Mon 5 Sept, but
these may have to change due to the by-election
rules.
New Galloway & Kells Community
Council: At the Extraordinary Meeting Mrs Maybelle
Thomson (formerly Vice-Chairman) was elected chair,
and Mrs Barbara Kergon was co-opted on as a new
member of the community council.
Next meetings: Mon 8 Aug & 12 Sept, 7.30pm, New
Galloway Town Hall.
Balmaclellan Community Council:
Next meetings: Mon 29 Aug & 26 Sept, 7.30pm,
Balmaclellan Village Hall.
Carsphairn Community Council:
Community Questionnaire: The Community Learning
and Development team carried out a survey in the
village on 8 June. The survey is confidential, and
the Community Council will only see a summary of
the results, not the individual questionnaires. Next
meetings: Mon 29 Aug & 26 Sept, 7pm, Lagwyne
Hall.
Tel: 01644 430 241
Email: mail@theclachaninn.co.uk
www.theclachaninn.co.uk
Full minutes of local Community Council meetings
can be viewed at Dalry Library.
GTI WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE
(registered route)
Outward Journey:
19:00 Dept. Dalry (Underhill)
19:10 New Galloway
19:25 Mossdale
19:35 Laurieston
19:40 Townhead of Greenlaw
19:47 Castle Douglas (Market St)
19:50 Castle Douglas (Tesco)
Return journey:
20:45 Dept. Castle Douglas (Tesco)
20:47 Castle Douglas (Market St)
20:52 Townhead of Greenlaw
21:00 Laurieston
21:10 Mossdale
21:25 New Galloway
21:35 Dalry
To book a GTI bus or for more information please contact keith cooper,
GTI Administrator, on 01644 420374.
FORREST ESTATE
FIREWOOD
Local suppliers of firewood logs,
kindling and chiminea wood.
Hardwood and so�wood
produced from sustainable,
FSC cer�ficated woodland.
Various quan��es available
for collec�on or bulk delivery.
Call for details 01644 430 230
office@forrestestate.com
Glenkens Gazette
The Programme for
Glenkens Day of the
Region is coming
together nicely for a full
celebration of life in the
Glenkens in October.
There is still that chance
for you to get involved
so don’t worry if you
haven’t already been in
touch.
Dragon Boat Teams
Have you seen the new Dragon
Boats on Loch Ken? Are you
inching to have a go? Paddlers
for Life are looking for teams of
Paddlers to join them on Sunday
2 October for a Day of the Region
Dragon Boat Race Day at the
Galloway Activity Centre. Teams
can be made up of members from
any community group or perhaps
you just want to represent your
page 3
Glenkens community
for a Dalry vs New
Galloway race...?
No experience or prior
training is necessary
as teams will be
joined by experienced
paddlers. Team
members can be of
either sex and must
be at least 12 years
old. Teams should
be made up of 8-10 people but
smaller groups or individuals are
urged to get in touch too.
Contact jodie@catstrand.com or
01644 420 374 for more info or
to take part.
Craft Exhibition
The Dalry Craft Group will be
holding an exhibition in Dalry
Community Centre on Sunday
2 & Monday 3 October and are
looking for Craft makers to join
them. If you are a maker and
have any items that you would
like to exhibit please get in touch
with jodie@catstrand.com or
01644 420 374 for more info or
to take part.
Remember there will be lots
going on over the weekend of
2nd / 3rd October so please look
out for the Day of the Region
Programmes which will be in
circulation soon and join up for a
jam-packed weekend of activities
celebrating rural life and our
community.
You can also find out
what’s happening by
reading it here in the
Glenkens Gazette!
Look out for the Day of
the Region logo on the
following pages for
features and info on
upcoming events and
activities - the logo
may be for one article
or for the whole page.
Tell us about your events to
be included in the next issue
– contact Ros Hill on 01644
420632/ros.hill@rathanhou
se.co.uk, or David Whyte on
01644 460296/david.whyte@
btinternet.com.
The Clachan Inn,
St John’s Town of
Dalry, is the Day of
the Region Glenkens
Location Sponsor.
Organisers are
delighted to have
this local business on
board!
Glenkens Day of the Region Winner
As part of the Day of the Region
celebration in The Glenkens, a
community survey was run to
encourage people to give their
views on how they feel about living
in their community.
There was a prize draw among
people in the Glenkens who
submitted their views...and Sarah
Ade, Gazette co-ordinator, was the
winner of the £50 prize!
Winner Sarah Ade and daughter Laya with Day
of the Region Glenkens organiser Jodie Noble. Communities participating
W BONE
WHB JEEPS
THE GARAGE, DALRY
PETROL & DIESEL SALES
SERVICE & REPAIRS
MOTs, TYRES, BATTERIES
ALL AT COMPETITIVE PRICES
OPEN 8.30AM - 6.00PM (SIX DAYS)
10AM - 6PM SUNDAYS
SHOP • SANDWICH BAR • LOTTERY
Tel: 01644 430208 Fax: 01644 430669
email: jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk
in the first ever Day of the
Region celebrations in the UK
are Castle Douglas, Creetown,
Crocketford, Gatehouse of Fleet
and The Glenkens.
Keep-upto-date by checking
out the newly launched website
www.dayoftheregion.co.uk or
text your name and community
to 07797 80 40 30 to receive text
updates direct to your handset.
FHB Fencing
Dalry
Domestic and
Agricultural
Fencing
01644 430 495 (Peter)
or 07767 795 498
(Jonathan)
New Galloway
Golf Club
Founded 1902
www.nggc.co.uk
v 01644 420737 v
Buggies now available for hire
VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS
WELCOME
Glenkens Gazette
page 4
sponsored by
EVERYTHING listed on the Glenkens Freecycle page is FREE - you
just need to contact the owner and go and pick it up!
Anyone can list an item they no longer want, and hopefully someone else in the area is looking for just that thing
and will come and collect it. You can also list items you are looking for, in the hope that someone else is getting rid
of something similar and will get in touch with you. If you would like to list something on this page, please get in
touch with Sarah on 07727 127 997 or email glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk.
Furniture
Sealy divan single bed, without
drawers. Solid pine headboard.
Good condition. No mattress.
Contact: Emma on 07885 611 360
Adult bed with mid/dark brown
wooden headboards. Can deliver if
necessary. Contact: 430 380
Double futon with hard wood base
and a very high quality green
mattress; folds into a small sofa.
Contact: Morag on 430 004
Two-eater sofa bed, deep pink,
velvet. Contact: Helga on 460 253
big central area. Eurocamp. Three
years old, good condition. Free to a
good home. Available for collection
from:Wilderness, High Street, New
Galloway. Contact: 420 221
Sony Colour TV, 22 inch Trinitron.
Contact: 460 516
Scanner, Epson. Contact: Sarah on
430 138
Electric radiator. Contact: 07769
696116
Scanner, Packard Bell. Contact:
Sarah on 430 138
Demijohns. Contact: 430 281
Little cupboard or side table, black.
Contact: Helga on 460 253
5 x 15kg butane cylinders (the blue
ones). Contact: Morag on 430 004
Hardwood standing lamp with
shade. Contact: Helga on 460 253
10 BBC Good Food magazine back
issues. Contact: Morag on 430 004
2 Ikea rocker type armchairs with
beech frames and black ( faded )
covers. Contact: Alan on 07769
680938
3 (probably a lot more) mountain
bike magazine back issues. Contact:
Morag on 430 004
many years and so will need to be
renovated if you want a classy item
for your bathroom. On the other
hand it could be an up-market cattle
trough. If you want it you will need
some very strong friends to help!
Contact: 430 387
Wooden fire surround and mantle
with cast iron insert. Recently
removed and in excellent condition.
Contact: Alan on 07769 680938
Large number of radiators of various
sizes suitable for either gas or oil
central heating systems. Recently
removed , flushed and some in `as
new` condition. Contact: Alan on
07769 680938
Worcester Danesmoor 26/32 floor
standing oil central heating boiler.
Working perfectly when removed.
Contact: Alan on 07769 680938
Chrome towel rail suitable for
plumbing into wet central heating
system. Contact: Alan on 07769
680938
Clothing
Apprx 10 photography magazine
back issues (outdoor photographer/
advanced photographer). Contact:
Morag on 430 004
Pair Jigsaw boots brown suede sz 6.
Contact: Morag on 430 004
1 Indian cloth bound notebook.
Contact: Morag on 430 004
1 pair cloth gardening gloves.
Contact: Morag on 430 004
Childrens’
Car dog guard. Contact: Jean on
07917 683 089
For childrens’ clothing see ‘Clothing’
section.
Seasoned hardwood. Contact:
Emma on 07885 611 360
Light blue wooden cot. Can deliver if
necessary. Contact: 430 380
Fabric - any. Contact: Emma on
07885 611 360
CHILD’S wooden single bed. Good
condition. Would require a new
mattress. Available for collection
from:Wilderness, High Street, New
Galloway. Contact: 420 221
Wardrobe. Contact: Emma on 07885
611 360
Child seat for adult bike; suitable
6mths to 3 years. Contact: 07500
554 751
Toddler balance bike. Contact:
Emma on 07885 611 360
Round dining table, hardwood.
Contact: Helga on 460 253
5 white M & S girl’s school shirts,
age 13. Contact: 430 218
1 Dalry Secondary blue sweatshirt,
small. Contact: 430 2181
Dalry Secondary blue cardigan
(girls), 34”. Contact: 430 218
1 Girl Guide navy hoodie, size 32”.
Contact: 430 218
1 black boy’s rain jacket with
detachable black fleece, John Lewis,
age 11/12. Contact: 430 218
Various
Round mirror with a white painted
wooden ornate frame. Contact: 430
212
LARGE family tent - sleeps six in
three side compartments, with
Antique wooden child’s bed with
removable retaining sides. Contact:
430 380
WANTED
Air Compressor. Ccontact: Emma on
07885 611 360
Anything related to fabric printing
and block printing. Contact: Emma
on 07885 611 360
Any house plants looking for a new
home. Contact: Emma on 07885
611 360
DIY/Home Fittings
Multifuel stove. Contact: Emma on
07885 611 360
Victorian cast iron bath. Roll top,
claw foot. This very heavy bath has
been sitting in my back garden for
Garden tools. Contact: Emma on
07885 611 360
Glenkens Gazette
page 5
sponsored by
Feed In Tarrifs
Thanks to the sponsorship
from Natural Power the
Glenkens Gazette will
include an Eco Feature in
each issue.
This can be anything from energy
efficiency to environmental
shopping, from water quality to the
benefits of buying locally produced
food and responsible trade.
We are open to any ideas that any of
you may have so if you wish to either
contribute an article or have an idea
as to what you would like to see as
an article then let us know and we
will try to include it in a future issue.
Simply contact Gazette co-ordinator
Sarah on 07727 127 997 or
glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk
FITS
As I’m sure many of you
may have noticed in recent
months there has been in
huge increase in the number
of solar panels being put on
peoples’ roofs, or the odd
domestic wind turbine being
located in the Glen.
You may have even heard rumour of
individuals putting a small-scale hydro
electric scheme on their property.
The reason for much of
this activity is due to the
Government initiative know
as Feed In Tarrifs or FITS.
Under the, scheme the Government
is seeking to:
“…encourage the
deployment of small
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
scale (less
that 5MW)
low carbon
electricity
generation, particularly by
organisations, businesses,
communities and
individuals who have not
traditionally engaged in the
electricity market.”
Basically what happens is that,
rather than give grants for the
installation of such systems as
was the case in the past, the
Government pays the individual
a premium rate for the electricity
produced from the installation whether the electricity is exported to
the national grid or consumed by the
property itself.
The amount you get paid varies
depending on the type and size of
the installation, e.g. a 30kW hydro
or 3kW of photovoltaic (electricity
producing) solar panels.
The payback on such systems can
vary depending on your location (eg
how windy the location is where you
have installed your wind turbine) but
typically range from 5-12 years.
The other advantage is that
every unit of electricity you
produce is one less unit
that you have to pay for as
part of your electricity bill,
so if you produce enough
to meet your own domestic
requirements you may not
need to pay an electricity
bill again during the life of
the kit.
After you have paid off any loan
used, you could even get a small
income from your installation.
There are many specialist companies
GLENKENS
MEDICAL PRACTICE
General Medical &
Dispensing Services
The Surgery
High Street
New Galloway
FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL
01644 420234
that can help advise you on what
installation is best for you and the
potential pay back periods for the
kit. There are an increasing number
of financial organisations that are
will to offer loans to help pay for the
capital costs of the equipment and
its installation.
If this has inspired you in any
way and you are interested
in FITS and generating your
own electricity then you
should do some research
on the internet to gain a
better understanding of the
scheme.
Tap in FITS to Google and look at the
Government’s DECC website for this.
If you think you want to take this
further then approach an approved
company (be sure to ask them about
their proven track record in the area)
which you can again find on site or
look in the Farmers Weekly.
These companies can also advise
more generally on the scheme and
the best options for you and whether
or not you need planning permission
for the installation.
If it all still looks good and
you think you can afford
the up front payments
then ‘go for it’. And then
you can just watch as you
have taken responsibility
for your own electricity
generation from a clean
and renewable resource.
A further scheme is due to be
announced by the Government by
the end of the year to help you
heat your house from renewable
sources, eg a wood boiler or solar
panels instead of more conventional
sources, eg oil, gas. A future article
will keep you posted as this concept
develops.
Ted Leeming
Glenkens Gazette
page 6
CatStrand Highlights
August/
September
Highlights
The new season has been
a great success so far,
and things just get more
and more exciting!
Our new Events Programme has
been released and is jam-packed
full of fun activities and events for
all the family to enjoy!
Join The
CatStrand
on the 7th
August
for the
Scottish
Alternative
Games where Surreal McCoy
will be presenting Big Rory &
Ochie: A giant Scotsman and his
endearing giant dog! Both visually
and characteristically enormous,
Ochie has a tendency to woo his
audience, but beware he can be a
rascal too!
Join us on Friday 19th August for
a musical evening from the sounds
of South America. Music from
South America will be performed
by students of the International
Scottish Cello Festival .and will
include a wide variety of South
American music including Tangos
by Piazzolla and the famous Villa
Lobos Concerto for Cellos and
Soprano.
On Thursday 25th August we will
be showing the film Submarine
directed by Richard Ayoade (The
IT Crowd). The film captures the
flavour of youth with eloquence,
heartwarming sincerity and some
splendid comic performances.
Lend us you ears for the fantastic
Pokey LaFarge & The South
City Three who are playing the
CatStrand on Thursday 8th
September. 2011 has been one of
the busiest for the St Louis-based
band, with main stage appearances
at big summer festivals in America
and Europe. The Riverboat
Soul album carried off the ‘Best
Americana Album’ category in the
prestigious US Independent Music
Awards, and Jack White of The
White Stripes has declared himself
a fan: “I love his voice”. With their
ever-growing publicity it is clear to
see that they will become a great
success!
(Emily Watson), a social worker
from Nottingham, who uncovered
one of the most significant social
scandals in recent times: the
forced migration of children from
the United Kingdom.
We are also proud to support the
UK’s first ever Day Of The Region.
It’s happening right here in D&G
with a weekend of special events
taking place on the first weekend
in October. Here at the CatStrand
we will be exhibiting a collection
of Glenkens images by local
photographers Phil McMenemy,
Morag Paterson, Ted Leeming
and Allan Wright. We will also be
host to a special CatStrand Youth
Players performance and showing
local film. Written by Caitlin Gilligan
For more Information &
tickets please call the
CatStrand on 01644 420 374
or visit www.catstrand.com
Are you a musician, poet, singer
or performer? You are? Oh
excellent, then why not
Webshop Success: Great news! Our
join us for our second
new CatStrand fundraising webshop has got off
Open Stage evening of
to a fantastic start with sales of over £1000
acoustic performance
already, raising much needed cash for our projects.
for the beginner and the
seasoned performer. No When shopping online, you can access over 150
matter what your ability leading retailers using CatStrand webshop. Every
time you use our webshop to go to a retailer‛s web
you will be welcome to
site and subsequently buy something, you are autom
play! This Open Stage
atically supporting CatStrand with our fundraising
night will be hosted by
efforts.
Nicola Black.
You don‛t pay anything extra by using our webshop,
We are delighted to
so please continue to use it whenever you can
present yet another
and please keep spreading the word. It really does
fantastic film: Oranges
make a difference, thank you!
and Sunshine, directed
Find our webshop at buy.at/CatStrand. Happy
by Jim Loach ( Ken’s
shopping and thank you for your continued support!
son). It tells the story
of Margaret Humphreys
Allotment Update
These are exciting times for the Glenkens Community
Garden & Allotment Project, offering everyone the
chance to grow their
own, or join in the fun in the community garden,
whatever their experience and ability.
Following the Climate Challenge Fund grant award
and employment of Project Development Officer
Wendy Fenton, an exciting opportunity has opened
up for Glenkens residents to get together and create
a unique garden. Wendy has a range of relevant
experience and enthusiasm for her work in the
Glenkens, and will be there to guide those who wish to
participate through various gardening activities.
With draft designs well under way following a meeting
at the CatStrand, the preferred site chosen by those
who attended the meeting is the field off the Old
Edinburgh Road, by Carson’s Knowe in New Galloway.
We are now finalising the tenancy agreement with the
landowner of the site and will soon start work on the
site and will need plenty of willing volunteers! - Please
call Wendy to get more details.
There are still allotment spaces available so please call
Wendy to reserve a plot.
And remember - the Allotments & Community Garden
is for everyone in the Glenkens, young and not so
young, experienced gardeners and beginners - we
will all be working together to create the gardens and
have fun!
Wendy can be contacted on mobile no. 07979 535
746, by email at wendy.fenton@catstrand.com, or at
the Catstrand (01644 420 374).
Glenkens Gazette
page 7
Primary
2011 TALENT Kickaboot Dalry
School Football
On the 1st June, the combined
forces of Dalry Primary and
Secondary Schools along with
parents, friends and staff packed
into Dalry School Hall for ‘You’ve
got Talent’ 2011.
team were the
runners up in
the Paul Jones A
League Football
Tournament final on
Saturday 25 June.
This took the form of a familiar TV
talent show with three specially
chosen judges - Mrs Nurse English, Mrs Biggar – Biology and
Mr Jackson - Physics.
The show had been organised by
an extremely talented and hardworking S1 and S2 committee who
had put in many hours organising
every detail of the event.
There were fifteen different acts,
ranging from singing to street
dancing and telling jokes to magic
tricks and all the children were
TOTALLY FANTASTIC! There were
also two numbers which invited
audience participation – YMCA
and the Cha–Cha Slide - and most
people attempted ‘Charlie Browns’
and cha –chas. The decision on
winners was left to the audience
who all voted for their top
favourite act.
While the votes were being
counted, there was a catwalk
to music - with the S1 and S2
classes doing a catwalk to display
their amazing hats which they
had recently created as part of a
Curriculum for Excellence multi–
subject ‘HATS’ event.
In the end and the winners were
Eoghain Curran and Owen Glasby
from S1 who were rappers for
the day. In second place came
Sabrina Smith with ‘Hallelujah’
then Charlotte Green took third
with a mesmerising display of
dancing.
The boys played well
and worked as a team.
Staff, parents and
friends were there to
cheer them on - they
were a credit to the
school and showed great
sportsmanship.
Drumlanrig Day Out
Carsphairn Primary School
went on a year ending trip to
Drumlanrig Castle.
The trip was funded by the PTC
and caps an excellent year at
Carsphairn. This year, parents
have volunteered a lot of their time
to help out the school in many
different ways.
Parents have
volunteered in the
classroom doing
ActiveLearning, along with the
pupils they have raised money and
awareness for the charity Headway,
we had a cycle safety course led by
volunteers and parents for pupils
and an after school gardening club
has the school vegetable garden
bursting with food. Once you
include the stalls at the Carphairn
Show and the
Happy Campers
float at the Clachan
Festival parade, you
can see that 2011
has already been
a very busy year
for our wee school.
On behalf of all the
staff and pupils at
Carsphairn, we’d
like to thank the
parents and PTC for
all their help this
year, including our
trip to Drumlanrig
Castle.
A Few Wonderful Artworks from the Glenkens Art Show
Pictures from left to right: Bill Wiseman - The Hunt, Sylvia Robertson - Cottage Garden Flowers, Olivia
Wise - winner of 1st prize in the Seniors section of the Schools Art Competition.
Glenkens Gazette
page 8
NEWS FOM THE WATSON BIRD CENTRE
and refurbishment of Barone,
the former family home of
Donald Watson. David is an
experienced businessman
who has worked recently on
community projects in the
Glenkens.
I am delighted to report
that we are making
progress with the project
in Dalry.
With grants totalling £65,000, we
have appointed two Project Officers
to take various activities forward.
David Whyte will be responsible
for the business plan and fund
raising strategy for the purchase
Gazette reader Louise
McClure from Dalmellington
has sent in this picture.
She says:
“Jeannie delivers a
monster! Can any Gazette
readers
top this?”
So, can
anyone
rise to the
challenge
and beat
this egg?
(no pun
intended...)
Sarah Keast will be responsible
for the events programme,
including the major Dalry Bird
Festival from 30 September
to 2 October 2011, and for
developing the volunteer
network. Sarah has extensive
experience of working with
communities, raising money and
running training programmes.
They will work two days a week
each for the next two years from
the Session House of Dalry Kirk.
Please contact David or Sarah with
any ideas you have - David can be
contacted on 07767 401 084 and
Sarah on 07716 179 871.
We are developing an exciting
programme for the events in the
autumn as part of the Glenkens
contribution to the Day of the
Region. Come and join one of our
guided walks and talks from the
RSPB and an opportunity to visit
the Red Kite Feeding Station. We
are hoping to have an evening
Concert with Peter Cowdrey’s ‘Bird
Swing’ and Poetry and Music with
Kenneth Stevens and the Rhona
MacKay trio. Look out for Dalry’s
first Bird Race and the award of
the Donald and Jeff Watson Raptor
Science prize.
We have initiated a design
competition asking a select group
of local architects to give us their
ideas for refurbishing Barone as
the Watson Bird Centre that should
be a magnet for locals, visitors and
bird enthusiasts alike. Roger Crofts
07803 595267
roger@dodin.idps.co.uk
Camera Club
The Stewartry Camera Club
returns to The Tolbooth after
the summer break at 7.30 pm
on Wed 14 Sept.
The competition judges this
year are Allan Wright, Dave
Symonds FRPS, Kim Ayres,
Keith Kirk, Alwyn Howes,
Pauline Saul and Vivienne
Dania. The full programme can
be found at www.stewartryca
meraclub.wordpress.com
‘The Hidden Road in June’ by Mary McIlvenna
The club caters for all levels of photographer - if you have an interest
in photography, do come along. For further information contact Mary
McIlvenna 01644 420613 or John Smith 01557 332043)
Bus Diversification
It’s amazing the different uses there are
for a Community Mini Bus, and I am sure
you can all think of many more.
Having a second vehicle gives us so much more
flexibility and in recent months Dalry School have
used a bus for educational trips involving overnight
camping, whilst a local user group organised transport
for a wedding – the larger bus was beautifully
decorated and appreciated by all – a further booking
involving a wedding has already been made!
Please remember the vehicles are NOT available for
public hire and reward but if you register a ‘user
group’ you can use a vehicle when you wish in line
with the conditions of use – for further details please
speak to Keith, and if you do wish to book a vehicle
please book early to avoid disappointment – we are
getting very busy!
DRIVER TRAINING: Another ‘nice’ problem of
being busy is the number of volunteers waiting
to be trained.
Following a grant from Tesco, Jon Nimmo is going on
a four day course in Edinburgh in September to qualify
as a ‘trainer’. This will allow us to arrange training at
Jon’s convenience locally and will be a lot easier and
quicker than the present situation. Please be patient
but don’t stop volunteering!
There are a number of trips in the pipeline including
another visit to Cumbrae Island where we all had a
wonderful day out a few weeks ago. It is in school
holidays so perhaps some of our youngsters will take
the opportunity to cycle round the island...
I am sure by the time you read this some people
will be thinking of Xmas and the Festive Season
- remember to book a bus early if you want to
guarantee being able to use one during that period.
Glenkens Gazette
The Green Green Grass
of Carsphairn
The end is now in sight
for Carsphairn’s project
of creating its own
Community Garden.
In the last week of June the laying
of turf at the east end of the
Garden was completed, so now
with some seasonal planting and
a few finishing touches it will be
effectively complete – well apart
from litter bins which are due in
August.
David Richmond of the Garden
Sub-Group commented: “It’s
extremely rewarding to see the
culmination of the efforts of our
group of volunteers. We also
greatly appreciate the generosity of
those who donated both money
and gifts in kind to enable the
project to progress.”
Matt Hickman, Chair of Carsphairn
Community Council explained:
“The Garden will be officially
opened on Saturday 24 September
by Alex Fergusson MSP. We are
delighted that he has agreed to
this for us given his busy schedule.
Everyone is welcome to come
along – refreshments and
entertainment are available for all.
Let’s hope for an Indian summer!”
Carsphairn Community Garden is
supported by the Dumfies & Galloway
LEADER Programme, Stewartry Area
Committee and Carsphairn Windfarm
Community Fund.
Contact: David Whyte on 07767
401084 or 01644 460296 or david.
whyte@btinternet.com
Generous Funds for RnR
South West Scotland RnR is a
small charity that helps wounded
servicemen recover from injuries.
They bring injured combatants to
their lovely accommodation on
the shores of the Solway and give
them good home-cooked food,
comfort and entertainment.
After two fires earlier in the year
the charity had much work to do
to ensure the living quarters were
repaired. The Ladies Guild of St
Margaret’s Episcopal Church in
New Galloway donated £600 from
their plant and bake sale, on top
of £700 donated last year and a
further £190 from one of their Lent
Lunches.
President Christine Rankin said:
“After we heard about RnR we all
wanted to support this worthwhile
cause and we are delighted to
have been able to help them over
the last nine months”.
Anyone who would like to find out
more about South West Scotland
RnR or support the charity in any
way should go to
www.southwestscotlandrnr.org.uk
St Margaret’s Ladies Guild organise
fundraising events throughout the
year, the money from which is
donated to a variety of charities,
often local organisations. Guild
KENBRIDGE HOTEL
New Galloway
Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP
Solicitors and Estate Agents
01556 503744
www.ggblaw.co.uk
Open 7 Days : Beauti
Beautiful Riverside Location
TRADITIONAL LOG FIRE
M E A L S S E RV E D
12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm
CASTLE DOUGLAS, DALBEATTIE
bed and breakfast
en suite accommodation
KIRKCUDBRIGHT & DUMFRIES
mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk
OFFICES IN :
01644 420 211
www.kenbridgehotel.co.uk
page 9
CAITLIN’S
COLUMN
There are times, like
today, where the sun
is shining and the birds are singing
and all I want to do is grab a book
and lie in the sun and develop the
tan I will never have. It’s times like
these that I can really appreciate
where I am in the world - Galloway
is an incredible and inspiring place
to live.
Growing up in Galloway has been
magical, but being a teenager here
can be challenging! I used to love
the leafy forests and the beautiful
green landscapes. As a child it was
great…I was free to roam the fields
and explore the endless expanse
of countryside. We would go on
walks and picnics or take trip up
to the Otter Pool where we could
dip our toes into the icy water. As
I grew older, however, the more
practical elements of living in the
middle of nowhere come to light.
My main problem with living so
deeply in the countryside is the
public transport. It’s very hard, if
you can’t drive, to get anywhere.
I can’t go out anywhere far on a
Saturday night because there are
no buses back on a Sunday. I rely
a lot on my parents for lifts, but
obviously it’s unfair on them to
take me places all the time. If I
could change one thing it would be
the bus service!
Galloway may be breathtakingly
beautiful, but there is a serious
lack of things for young people
to do. In the summer we can
get together for camp-outs and
make music around a bonfire,
but in winter that isn’t an option.
We do have local music festivals
such as Wickerman, Eden or
Knockengorroch to look forward to
and the Varanasi Nights in Castle
Douglas, which raise money for
Eden Festival, are a great way
for young people to socialise.
Teenagers from all parts of
Galloway can meet and see young
talent showcased - if more events
like this happened I think us
younger folks would appreciate it.
I am about to leave Galloway
to go to university and I plan to
make good use of city life, culture
and fun. And public transport of
course! I wont forget Galloway and
I will definitely come back as often
as I can.
Glenkens Gazette
page 10
Dalry CARSPHAIRN IN ACTION
Anglers
We have an exciting website
which has been recently
updated - have a look at
www.dalryanglingassociation.co.uk.
The annual Junior Competition was
held on Saturday 2 July in glorious
weather. The winner this year was
Annabelle McAdam and her sister,
Kimberly was second.
The Senior Competition will be held
on Carsfad from noon until 4pm on
Saturday 14 August.
The Association is having problems
finding Office Bearers. We have not
had a Treasurer since the last AGM
and despite asking members and
putting a notice in Dalry no-one has
volunteered. There is an Honorarium,
and a Treasurer doesn’t even need
to be a member of the Association. If
anyone could give a little time to help
out, it would be much appreciated.
Please contact the Secretary on
01644 430271. The President has
also intimated that he will retire at the
next AGM which will be held on Friday
18 November in Dalry Town Hall at
7.30pm. Should there be no interest
this year, there is a danger that the
Association will become defunct.
Elizabeth McFegan starting off on her
sponsored walk in aid of Dalry
Church, accompanied by Isabel McBeth
and Mabel Young. Elizabeth was later
joined by Mary Dougan and Betty
Goodwin. The sum raised was £300.
Action for Brain Injury
(ABI) Week ran from Mon 9
to Sun 15 May.
Carsphairn really got involved in this
worthwhile cause as a member of
the community had a brain injury
last year, and Headway have been a
great support to the family.
John Phillips had an epileptic seizure
last summer and ended up with a
fractured skull and a penetrating
brain injury. The whole family have
had support from Headway since he
came out of hospital.
The family have two children who
attend Carsphairn Primary, and
wanted to raise awareness of
Headway.
As the first event of the week John
went into the school to talk about his
brain injury. The kids really listened
well and asked many questions. A
Primary 1 pupil said: “John was in
school today. He was fantastic - no
he was better than that, he was
cool!”. Makes it all worthwhile!
Carsphairn had now raised about £50
for Headway Dumfries and the main
fundraiser hadn’t even happen yet!
The second of the week’s activities
Does Your Dog Ken The Glenkens?
Come along and appreciate
three walks in this lovely
area with your pet!
Dumfries & Galloway Canine Rescue
Centre is a registered charity which
rescues and rehomes mistreated,
abandoned and unwanted dogs from
all over the region. Three of the
charity’s Glenkens supporters have
volunteered to lead walks in this
lovely area of Dumfries & Galloway
as part of the Day of the Region.
Walk 1: 2pm, Sun 11 Sept. Led
by Gerry Cinderby, this walk starts
in the New Galloway car park, is
around three miles long and goes
over the open land around New
Galloway across the flood plain to
the river.
Walk 2: 11am, Sun 25 Sept. Led
by Janette Dickson, this walk leaves
from the Thistle Inn in Crossmichael.
The walk is around two miles long,
along quiet country lanes and
enables owners to enjoy views over
Loch Ken.
The Fleet Fish van is in the Glenkens
on Tuesdays & Wednesdays every
week. Anyone wishing me to call,
please phone Mary on above mobile no.
was held on the Wednesday.
Karen from Headway visited the
school. The kids really enjoyed
it all, although they were a little
disappointed at not being able to eat
the jelly brain!
The last of the week’s events was
Wear a Hat for Headway. The school
had a non-uniform day and raised £27
with everyone wearing a hat all day.
Carrick’s of Carsphairn also took part
in the day - all the staff wore hats,
and they had a selection of hats for
customers to wear while in the shop
and tearoom.
Thanks go to Thistle Products
in Dalbeattie who donated hats for
the occasion. £120 was raised in
Carrick’s Shop, and donations have
still been coming in.
Thanks also go to all who supported
Hats for Headway, the children at
the school rose to the challenge and
looked wonderful in their costumes,
and customers in the village shop,
both familiar faces and complete
strangers, who all entered into the
spirit of the day. It was a great day,
lots of fun and lots of lovely lolly for
Headway!
Maggie Phillips (Mrs)
Walk 3: Sun 2 Oct. This is the Day
of the Region, and this walk begins
with Reverend David Bartholomew
leading a service of blessing for
pets and their owners in the field
alongside the parish church in Dalry.
The collection will go to help the
unfortunate dogs that are seeking
new homes at D&G Canine Rescue
Centre.
The walk which follows is led by
Vorna Gilkes and will explore
Dundeugh Island, a beautiful
forested island set in Loch Ken.
The walk is around four miles along
forest tracks. Parking is very limited
so it is best to use the car park
about 100m south and opposite at
Polmaddy.
You can enjoy these walks – all
three or only one – either with
or without a dog. It will help the
Rescue Centre care for the dogs that
are at the kennels waiting for new
homes if you could find sponsors
for your walks or give a donation.
Sponsor forms can be downloaded
from www.caninerescue.co.uk using
the ‘support us’ button.
A leaflet giving further details of
the Glenkens trio of walks and a
sponsor form will be available from
the Rescue Centre (01387 770210,
info@caninerescue.co.uk), The Cat
Strand, the Clachan Inn and the
Thistle Inn from the beginning of
August.
Diana Lord,
Chairman D&G Canine Rescue Centre
Glenkens Gazette
page 11
GCAT to the Rescue
The Glenkens Community
& Arts Trust (GCAT), with
support from Dumfries
& Galloway Council, has
rescued this year’s Doors
Open Days.
The popular weekend event in
September is coordinated nationally
by the Scottish Civic Trust and is
now in its 21st year in Scotland.
Doors Open Days has been ongoing
in Dumfries and Galloway since
1993, but this year’s event was
threatened following the closure of
Solway Heritage.
Doors Open Days
provides free
access to buildings,
cultural and archaeological sites
that members of the public would
not normally gain entry to, or where
a charge is usually made. The
event has opened everything from
thatched cottages to castles, from a
farm using working horses to the jail
cells under the Sherriff’s Court.
GCAT Chairman Cathy Agnew said;
“I am so glad that between us we
have been able to put together
a rescue package to save this
important event. Put the date
in your diaries now Doors Open
Days will take place in Dumfries
and Galloway on Saturday 24 and
Sunday 25 September.”
The theme of this
year’s Doors Open
Days is ‘The Key of
the Door’, reflecting
both the fact that
in Scotland Doors Open Days
celebrates its 21st birthday this year
and GCAT’s aspiration to increase
the involvement of young people.
For more information about
participating venues and
special events throughout the
region, pick up a Doors Open
Days brochure at local venues
including CatStrand, or visit
www.catstrand.com
Image courtesy of the Galloway News
CARSPHAIRN SHOW 2011
Saturday 4 June saw the sun shining for the 120th
annual Carsphairn Show at The Crofts, Carsphairn.
Again, there was an excellent show of sheep on
display, with a good turnout of spectators.
During the day, the Hall, which accommodated the
industrial and horticultural sections, was filled with
visitors and admirers. Show Day was rounded off by
the Childrens’s Sports in the afternoon, and a well
attended dance in the Lagwyne Hall in the evening.
The Committee would like to take this opportunity to
thank all the exhibitors and sponsors for making the
day the success it was.
carricks of
carsphairn
Convenience Store and Tea Room/Garden
A warm welcome awaits customers old and new!
Enjoy a browse around the shop, which stocks all your
daily requirements. Post Office open 11am to 1pm
Monday to Saturday. Locally made woollens, gifts and
cards available.
Enjoy a light meal in the Tea Room, which is open
all year round (except Christmas Day). Our menu has
something for most tastes including home-made pies,
scones and soups. Our garden has the most wonderful
views all year round...
We are open:
Mon to Fri
7am - 6pm
Saturdays
8am - 6pm
Sundays
9am - 5pm
UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP
AND NOW RE-OPENED FOLLOWING
REFURBISHMENT
Stag’s Head:
traditional pub offering bar snacks, hot and cold beverages
DG’s Bistro:
serving bistro and bar food in a relaxed se�ing
St. John’s Restaurant:
Elegant dining with a tempting a la carte menu
Food served all day
Sunday Lunch served 12-8pm
We cater for functions and parties
St. John’s town of Dalry
Tel: 01644430107 www.lochinvarhotel.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 12
NATURE & WILDLIFE
On a long drive recently I
set myself the considerable
mental task of listening to
the drum beat all the way
through the Rolling Stones’
classic, Tumbling Dice.
Not that I particularly like or dislike
drums, and I really do like this track,
but rather I was attempting to unravel
the mystique of its attraction. For me
the experience was quite remarkable
and reminded me of sitting in the sun
outside Peebles Hydro Hotel with a
medical professor friend a few years
ago. We were joint co-ordinators of a
conference seminar and were enjoying a
brief interval in the clear air of a golden
autumn day. He said:
“Just listen to all the bird song, isn’t
it wonderful?”
In agreeing I observed that they were all
robins, at least six of them, at various
distances. Perfectly personified by Burns
in his Brigs of Ayr as “whistling glee”,
the metallic autumn song of the robin
is so evocative of the season and all its
splendour. My friend was astonished
and still recalls the incident occasionally
when we meet. He’d probably heard the
robins’ symphony every year, as these
incoming migrants set up their winter
territories or simply sang to each other
on their annual way south. However,
that day he certainly assumed that the
orchestra had many instruments, when
in fact they were all the same.
Bird song is one of the most uplifting
natural experiences for most people and
For me there is no mystique
in the attraction of bird
song to our ears, it is a
glorious manifestation
of the cycle of life that
we are all part of, and by
enjoying it we are somehow
reconnecting with this
source of wellbeing.
However, to identify the individual
parts that go to make up the wondrous
whole, we must adopt the Tumbling
Dice technique and fix on individual
songs in the way I followed Charlie
Watts’s drumming in the Stones’ track to
appreciate the part he played in holding
it all together and driving it along.
Discerning individual bird song is also
a considerable mental task at times, and
sometimes complicated by species like
the skylark, which has its own backbeat
theme, but brings in a randomly
repeating series of other birds’ songs
in its own style – like cover versions.
Thus skylark song, while instantly
recognisable across its world range, has
slight variations between areas according
to the prevailing neighbouring songsters
of various kinds. However, with practice
this separation is possible and indeed
considerable skill is soon developed.
The Clog & Shoe
Workshop
unique handmade footwear
open 10am - 5pm weekdays
Easter Mon to 31st October
please ring to arrange a visit at
other times
Tel: 01644 420 465
visit our new online shop at
www.clogandshoe.co.uk
Greenfinch: RSPB photograph
Tumbling Dice
my friend’s observation
on its beauty was really
quite unremarkable.
“Oh, listen to the
birds singing” is a
common enough expression after all
and certainly not the preserve of socalled birdwatchers like myself. Many
people do also appreciate the variety of
bird songs that combine to give us our
magnificent dawn and dusk choruses.
My evening walk down the Water of
Ken at Dalry provides an impressive cast
of birds to unravel, and for some reason
this spring brought unusually high
numbers of migrant songbirds, including
garden warblers, whitethroats, sedge
warblers, blackcaps, willow warblers
and chiffchaffs. Resident blackies
(blackbirds), mavis (song thrush),
shelfies (chaffinches), blue dykies
(dunnocks), linties (linnets), green linties
(Greenfinches), goldies (goldfinches)
and others complete the throng. What
colour and what sounds! Sadly, the
weather of May and June was simply
awful, but it at least served to heighten
the pleasure of those evenings when the
birds moved and sang, reminding me
of how important they are in the great
scheme of things.
Now summer has brought the tumbling,
wheeling, wheezing swifts that so
characterize the Glenkens and indeed
Castle Douglas. Up on a clear day, they
are simply stunningly beautiful and I just
love watching them, and the visitors who
stop in their tracks on the main street to
marvel at the spectacle. Who needs dice?
Chris Rollie
Glenkens Gazette
page 13
LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN
The Spoiling of
Glenkens
The issue of wind turbines is currently,
to say the least, highly controversial
throughout Scotland.
Back in the 1930s when the
Galloway Hydro-Electric
Scheme was built at a cost
of £3 million many folk
were deeply concerned
about the environmental
impact.
An editorial by Dorothy McBurnie in
The Gallovidian 1931 regretted the
assault on the beauty of Galloway, an
event that was greeted by the wider
community with ‘apathy, slackness and
worse’.
The Glenkens scheme had been
‘conceived and launched and had gone
through Parliament almost before
the greater portion of the people of
Galloway had heard about it’.
Late in the day the Association for
the Preservation of Rural Scotland
had become involved. To cite one
example, the original plan included
closing off the flow of the Dee to Loch
Ken at Clatteringshaws; Glenlee was
the intended ‘new junction’. This was
approved by a consultant, Professor
Bailly, who, however, considered the
construction of other dams from
Allangibbon Bridge north, as well as the
Doon Tunnel, unnecessary.
The matter was appealed all the way to
the privy council without success. Ms
McBurnie feared the whole landscape
would be defaced and she lamented the
loss of historic sites and beauty spots as
well as the erection of pylons and other
structures.
‘Let us pray for a miracle’, she
proclaimed; ‘and in the meantime
let us do all in our power to help
those already working in the cause
of beauty. Let us keep some ideals,
at least, from the welter of modern
materialism and ugliness that is
making itself so evident in
the literature, the cities, the
general atmosphere of today’.
She ended by quoting a recent lecture by
Prof Macneile Dixon:
‘Despite all her victories, science
stands today bewildered before her
own conclusions, and reason is ill at
ease upon her imperial throne’.
And
“private
legislation”:
The company promoter’s pen
Will dam the Deugh and dam the Ken
And dam the Dee, - oh, damn the men
Who plan such desecration!
However the general editors of the Third
Statistical Account (1965) pronounced
the scheme ‘an unqualified success. It
was constructed at the cost estimated; it
Another article in 1939 deplored
has done everything that was expected
commercialism’s ability to ride roughof it and, as regards units generated, has
shod over all opposition. Forests and
produced more than was expected’.
lochs were blasted in the name of
progress. A national heritage was at stake; Furthermore the County Council of the
Stewartry of Kirkcudbright; ‘had the
‘unless all classes unite in a
unique distinction of being the first local
authority in the UK to undertake the
determined effort to give nature a
fair deal, and compel those in official distribution of electricity over the whole
county area and this despite the fact
positions to do the same, the little that population density at 30 to the square
remains of Scotland’s most priceless mile was lower than in any other similarly
developed area’.
possession will be lost for all time’.
There is much like-minded commentary
in the contemporary press.
The promoters thought they had done
a very fine job and predicted that within
a few years the new Hydro structures
would blend in with the landscape and
would indeed enhance it.
Of course this most ambitious
scheme was situated right in the heart
of Galloway, in what until then was
regarded as the most unspoiled part of
the province, recently romanticised by
S R Crockett. The idyll, ironically, was
becoming industrialised...
The question is who was right? Have
we taken the dams and surge towers to
our hearts? Has the scheme turned out
to be an eyesore or do we recognize
its structures as some of our finest
examples of Modernist design (Sir
Alexander Gibb)? What is the message
for our present debate?
W G Dobie produced a poem entitled
‘The Modern Raiders’ inspired by
Crockett’s novel. It shows that he had no
doubts about the issue. One verse reads:
A raider comes today who kills
The glories of our glens and hills
With unheroic Acts and Bills
Such ambition had provoked
outbursts of outrage from
English MPs in the House
of Commons, scandalized
that remote areas in Scotland
would have electricity before
some of England’s major
cities!’
How unthinkable right enough!
For further reading consult George
Hill, Tunnel and Dam: The Story of the
Galloway Hydros (1984).
Ted Cowan
Glenkens Gazette
page 14
GLENKENS DIARY
AUGUST
Mon 1 – Fri 5, RSAMD Drama Works
Front Page, 10am – 4pm, £35,
CatStrand
Fri 5, New Galloway Ceilidh with
Robert Menzies Ceilidh Band, 8.30pm,
NG Town Hall
Sun 7, Scottish Alternative Games,
2pm, NG Park
Sun 7, Big Rory & Ochie, 2pm, FREE,
New Galloway Park
Mon 8, Dalry Community Council
meeting, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall provisional date
Mon 8, Kells Community Council
meeting, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town
Hal
Sat 13, Glenkens Show, Mains of
Kenmure, New Galloway
13 Aug – 18 Sept, From Woods
and Gardens Paintings and Prints by
Pamela Grace, CatStrand
Sat 14, Dalry Anglers Senior
Competition, from noon to 4pm,
Carsfad
Mon 15 – Thurs 18, Collage &
Textiles with Mary Pugh, £160,
CatStrand
Fri 19, Music from South America,
7.30pm, £10/£8, CatStrand
Sat 20, Circus Dance Fantastique with
Margaret Morris Movement, 11am12noon: Ages 3-4, 12.15-1.45pm:
Ages 5-7, 2.30-4pm: Ages 8-15,
FREE, CatStrand
Sat 20 Aug, Glenkens Horticultural
Show, Dalry Town Hall, doors open
for exhibitors at 8am to 9.30am on
Sat, and the Hall will be open to the
public at 2pm, trophy presentation at
Real Dog Training
“Is your dog ruining your life?”
REAL solutions for REAL problems in
REAL situations to make
a REAL difference.
3.30pm
Sunshine, 7.30pm, £5/£4, CatStrand
Thurs 25, Film: Submarine,
7.30pm, £5/£4, CatStrand
Fri 23, Swishing Party, 7.00pm,
£2.50, CatStrand
Mon 29, Balmaclellan
Community Council meeting,
7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall
Mon 29, Carsphairn Community
Council meeting, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall
Thurs 30, Stay in touch: Skype Talk,
4.30pm-5.15pm, FREE, CatStrand
4 weeks starting Tues 30, Digital
Photography, 5.30-7.30pm, £80 or
free with ILA, CatStrand
SEPTEMBER
Thurs 1, Waste Management and
Home Composting Talk, 1.30pm3.00pm, £2, CatStrand
Fri 2, Dalry Church Guild Sale of
Work, 7 pm, Dalry Town Hall, £2 incl
teas
Mon 5, Dalry Community Council
meeting, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall provisional date
Tues 6, Stay in touch: Skype
Workshop, 3.00pm-5.00pm, FREE,
CatStrand
Thurs 8, Pokey LaFarge & The
South City Three, 7.30pm, £10/£8,
CatStrand
Sun 11, Day of the Region Walk,
starts from New Galloway Car Park,
2pm, see p10
Mon 12, Kells Community Council
meeting, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town
Hall
Wed 14, Stewartry Camera Club, 7.30
pm, The Tolbooth, Kirkcudbright, see
p8
Thurs 15, Open Stage, 7.30pm, £3/
£2 (performers), CatStrand
Wed 21- Wed 28, CASTLES SWSDFA
Young Art Competition, CatStrand
Thurs 22, Film: Oranges and
T. H. CARSON
BUTCHERS
See us at Dalry Farmers
Market on 2nd Sat each month.
Eric Broadhurst (NDOA
Advanced Instructor)
We can deliver to your door call us any time up to the Friday
before the Farmers Market, and
we will deliver on the Saturday,
afternoon.
35 years dog trainer to the TV
and film industry
01556 610384
CALL ERIC NOW
Home: 01644 460670
Mobile: 07831 590822
Sat 24, Jewellery Workshop,
10.00am-4.00pm, £40, CatStrand
Sat 24, Carsphairn Community
Garden official opening
Sat 24 & Sun 25, Doors Open Day,
all over Dumfries & Galloway, see p11
Sun 25, Jimmie Macgregor – John
Muir: Wilderness Guardian, 3pm, £8,
CatStrand
Sun 25, Day of the Region
Walk, starts from the Thistle Inn,
Crossmichael, 11am, see p10
Mon 26, Balmaclellan Community
Council meeting, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan
Village Hall
Mon 26, Carsphairn Community
Council meeting, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall
Fri 30 Sept to Sun 2 Oct, Dalry Bird
Festival, various venues around the
Glenkens
Fri 30, Glenkens 73 Club & CatStrand
Youth Players, 7.30pm, £5/£3,
CatStrand
OCTOBER
Sat 1st & Sun 2, Day of the
Region, CatStrand
Sat 1 – Thurs 13,
Photographers of the Glenkens,
CatStrand
Sun 2, Day of the Region Dragon Boat
Race Day, Galloway Activity Centre,
see p3
Sun 2 & Mon 3, Dalry Craft Group
Exhibition, Dalry Community Centre,
see p3
Sun 2, Day of the Region Walk, starts
in field alongside Dalry Church, see
p10
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THE CROSS, MILL ST, DALBEATTIE
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Glenkens Gazette
page 15
WHAT’S GOING ON IN AUGUST & SEPTEMBER ...BE PART OF IT
REGULAR EVENTS:
Glenkens Ramblers: Mon,
1.30pm, outside the Bank,
Dalry
Scouts: Mon, 7–8.30pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Mother & Toddlers: Tues,
9.45-11.15am, New Galloway
Town Hall
Beavers: Tues, 6.30–7.45pm,
New Galloway Scout Hut
Glenkens Walking Group:
Wed, 1.30pm, outside the
Bank, Dalry
Stewartry Camera Club:
Wed, 7.30pm, The Tolbooth,
Kirkcudbright
Mossdale Painters: Wed,
9.30am, Mossdale Village Hall
Cub Scouts: Wed, 6.45–8pm,
New Galloway Scout Hut
Thursday Lunch Club:
12.30pm, New Galloway Town
Hall, fortnightly starting 6 Jan,
£3, contact - Raymond Vincent,
01644 420451.
Lions Club monthly quiz:
alternating between The
CatStrand & Lochinvar Hotel,
contact - Andrew Frew, 01644
420 323
The CatStrand, New
CHURCH OF
SCOTLAND
Sundays: Balmaclellan:
12noon 1st, Carsphairn:
10.30am 1st 2nd(Aug) 3rd
4th Dalry: 9am 1st 2nd(Aug)
3rd 4th(Aug) Dalry: 12noon
4th(Sept) Kells: 10.30am 2nd
3rd 4th
Special Services/
Events: 12 Sept, 10.30am:
United Family Service, Kells
Church, followed by barbecue and
children’s games at Kells House.
25 Sept, 10.30am: Harvest
Thanksgiving, Kells Church,
followed by Harvest Lunch in
New Galloway Town Hall. 12
Galloway (01644 420 374) :
Exercise to Music: Mon, 1011am
Play it by Ear: Mon during term
time, 1.30-2.30pm
Children’s Dance Classes
with Margaret Morris
Movement: Mon during term
time, 3.15-4pm (pre-school), 45pm (ages 8-12)
Carers Coffee & Chat: Tues,
10am-12noon
Teen Spirit: Tues during term
time, 7.30-9.30pm
Taking the First Step in
Computing: Wed, 5.30-7.30pm
Boxercise: Wed, 7-8pm, £4, New
Galloway Town Hall
Zumba: Wed: 8-9pm, New
Galloway Town Hall, £4
Gentle Yoga & Relaxation:
Thurs, 10-11.15am
Sing it Out: Singing Workshop:
Thurs, 11.30am-12.30pm
Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri
each month, 2pm
Saturday Art Club: 2nd Sat
each month, 10am–12noon
Circus Skills Swapping Share:
3rd Sun of the month, 1-3pm
noon, Harvest Thanksgiving,
Dalry Church, followed by Harvest
Lunch in Dalry Town Hall.
Communion Service:
28 Aug, 10.30am Kells Church
SCOTTISH
EPISCOPAL CHURCH
(C of E): St Margaret’s,
New Galloway: Holy
Communion - 10.30am every
Sun & Wed.
CATHOLIC CHURCH
SERVICES: Gatehouse of
Fleet: Sat, 6pm. Kirkcudbright:
Sun, 9.30am. Dalbeattie:
Sun, 11am. St Ninian’s, Castle
Douglas: Rev McFadden - 01557
330687.
Dalry
Library
Tue:
2 - 4.30pm
then 5.30 - 7.30pm
Fri:
11:15am - 1:15pm
then 2 - 4.30pm
23 mobile library stops
- to find out where and
when call 430 234
Catstrand Youth Players: Sun
during term time from 2pm
CatStrand Playstation
Tournaments: contact The
CatStrand for info.
Dalry Community
Centre (contact - Sarah on
01644 430 393) :
Glenkens Playgroup: Mon-Fri,
9.15-11.45am (contact - Julie
Moore 01644 460 687)
Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm
& Wed, 7-9pm
Ballroom & Latin Dance dropin class: Mon, 7.30-9pm, £5
Ballroom & Latin Dance
course: Mon, 9-10pm, for more
info tel Sam Hood on 01644
420672
Good Neighbours Club: Tues,
2pm
Kickback Martial Arts: Tues
& Thurs, 7-9pm, both adults &
children welcome
Glenkens Mother & Toddlers:
Wed, 1.30-3pm
Craft Class: Thurs, 2-4pm
Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm
Guides: Wed, 5.30-7pm
USEFUL NUMBERS:
● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000
● Local Police: 0845 600 5701
● Doctors: 01644 420 234
● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24
● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000
Gaze�e Adver�sing Rates
6cm x 6cm - £31.50 per issue
(10% series discount)
1/4 page (9cm w x 13cm h) - £68.25
(25% series discount)
1/2 page (18cm w x 13cm h) - £126
(25% series discount)
Full Page (18cm w x 27cm h) - £210
(25% series discount)
Glenkens Gazette
page 16
Image courtesy of the Galloway News
Clachan Flair
Dalry’s Clachan Fair week was an
ambitious program of events, in
fact so many that we lost count,
but over fifteen for sure!
Events during the week included a Pet
Show, Songs of Praise, Treasure Hunt,
Quiz Night, Scottish Night and Junior and
Senior Discos to name but a few. The
Grand Finale was, of course, the Saturday
which began with a car boot sale and stalls
followed by the fancy dress competion and
a parade led by the Dalry Lad and Lass
in a carriage. Later there was a range of
activities on the school sports field for the
young (and young at heart).
The Mulloch Race was also run (or walked)
in near perfect conditions and Mrs Wood was
presented with the prize for the best dressed
house competion, no mean feat for Dalry’s oldest
resident who will celebrate her 100th birthday in
September.
A big thank you goes out to all the people who
have helped to put the Fair together this year
– it is through their generosity, in time, through
donations (and through the lack of claiming of
personal expenses) we were able to raise the
funds we did.
The AGM of the Clachn Fair will be on Wednesday
14 September at 7pm in Dalry Town Hall - please
come along and support us.
VACANCY
Property Factor/Manager
The Pamela Young Trust are
seeking the services of a selfemployed Property Factor/Manager
in relation to their residential
properties in the Dalry area.
The position may suit a party with
previous experience as a surveyor or
builder.
In the first instance Applicants should
contact:
P Matthews, AB & A Matthews LLP,
Bank of Scotland Buildings, 37 Albert
Street, Newton Stewart, DG8 6EG
01671 404 100
enquiries@abamatthews.com
WRITE FOR THE GAZETTE!
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
OCT/NOV COPY DEADLINE: Mon 5 Sept
Sunday 7th August 2011
New Galloway Town Park from 2pm
Featuring:
The World Gird n’ Cleek Championships
Surreal McCoy: Big Rory and Ochie
The Buccleuch & Queensberry Caledonia Pipe Band
Snail Racing
Classic Car Show
Archery
Tossin’ the Sheaf
Balmaclellan Skittles
Hurlin’ the Curlin’ Stane
Tractor Pull
Tug o’ War
Craft Stalls, Sideshows, Teas, Barbecue, Beer Tent
Admission : Adults £4.00, Children £1.00
Free Parking
A day out with a difference in
Scotland’s smallest Royal Burgh!
Profits support local charities and good causes. The Alternative Games are hosted by
The Royal Burgh of New Galloway & Kells Parish Community Council.
Design & co-ordination:
Sarah Ade (sarah_
ade@tiscali.co.uk)
Printing:Stranraer
& Wigtownshire Free
Press (www.stranraerfreepress.co.uk)
The Glenkens Gaze�e is an ini�a�ve of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Sco�sh Charity No. SC032050
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2011
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Editor: Sarah Ade
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<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> </span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p>
<p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span> </span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p>
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GLENKENS GAZETTE
news from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry
October/November 2011
ISSUE 66
FREE
Glenkens Award Winners
The 2011 Celebration of Achievement (COA) Awards were held on
Thursday 1 September at Threave Visitor Centre.
Last held in 2009, the Awards recognise and
celebrate the achievements and contribution
made to life in the Stewartry by a wide range of
learners, community groups and volunteers.
There are eight categories in total, and the
Glenkens was well represented among the
winners with Carsphairn First Responders coming
in first in the ‘Safe & Secure’ category, in the
category ‘Making the Locality Healthier’ Glenkens
Walking Group came in first and Paddlers for Life
third, and in the ‘Environmental Award’ category
Carsphairn Community Garden came third. Well
done everyone!
Pictured: Margaret Richmond and Anne Rutherford
from Carsphairn First Responders receiving
their award from Mike McCormick of the D&G
Constabulary.
Keep Our Playgroup Open
Dumfries & Galloway
Council are set
to cut pre-school
funding for the
Glenkens Playgroup.
Due to the fact the school
nursery has 20 spaces
available, not all of which are
currently filled, the Council
say they have to cut funding
to the Playgroup or they are,
in effect, ‘double-funding’ as
state funded
children
– from the
age of three
– could be at
the nursery,
rather than the
Council paying
for children
to go to the
Playgroup.
But they would
only be saving
St Margaret’s Church Ladies Guild recently raised
around £8,000
£300 for the Playgroup. Pictured are, from left to
right, Barbara Johnson, Christina Green (Playgroup
a year. And
Chairperson) with daughter Anona, Christine Rankin
the knock-on
and Jennie Repath.
A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve
effects for our community
are far-reaching - if Council
funding is withdrawn, the
Playgroup will have to close
as it isn’t financially viable for
it to continue without it.
This means there will be no
childcare/education facility
at all for under 3’s within
the whole of the Glenkens,
with children missing out
on at least a year of preschool education at an age
when educational imput is
of vital importance to child
development.
On Page 6 are contact details
for a consultation the Council
is doing to find out people’s
views. Please get in touch;
the more ideas, thoughts and
comments received, the more
chance of finding a solution to
save our Playgroup.
www.glenkensgaze�e.com
Glenkens Gazette
page 2
Bowled Over
Saturday 3 September was an
important day in the history of
Dalry’s Spalding Bowling Club.
Spalding won the Intercounty Cup, an event played
between the former Dumfriesshire Clubs and the
Stewartry Clubs, for the first time since 1979.
To celebrate and make an occasion of the
presentation, Spalding entertained the
Dumfriesshire highest scoring team to a friendly
match (accompanied by suitable refreshments)
followed by a buffet in the Clachan Inn. The two
rinks from Spalding, pictured here receiving the
magnificent cup, were from left to right, Ian
Murray, Peter Hamilton, John Peacock, Hamish
Sinclair, Arthur McFegan, John McNally, Jim Findlay
and Alex Harvie.
Dalry Community Council: Andrew Holmes
Our skilled head chef uses the best local
produce including Galloway beef, Craigadam
lamb and venison, cheese from Rowan Glen and
fish from the Galloway Smokehouse.
With a warm and friendly atmosphere,
outstanding food and lovely locals, it’s no
wonder The Clachan Inn is fast becoming the
place to be in the Glenkens.
was voted as Chairperson, Andrew Mellor was voted
as Vice-Chairperson, Moira Jones was voted as
Secretary and Gerald Bell was voted as Treasurer.
The CC has been given a ‘green light’ to adopt the
telephone box by Bone’s Garage. Next meeting: Mon
3 Oct, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall.
New Galloway & Kells Community
Council: It was reported that it was well over two
years since LING (Local Initiatives in New Galloway)
initiated discussions to take over the management of
the Town Hall. It was reported that the D&G Council
had cut down the flowering cherry trees at the
Memorial Park gates as the trees were diseased, it
was agreed that a request be made for replacements
of flowering cherry trees on the site. Next meeting:
Mon 3 Oct, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall.
Balmaclellan Community Council: Next
meetings: Mon 31 Oct, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall.
Carsphairn Community Council: Members
Tel: 01644 430 241
Email: mail@theclachaninn.co.uk
www.theclachaninn.co.uk
of D&G Council Educational Services attended
the meeting for a Nursery School Consultation.
Carsphairn residents were being consulted because
some residents had made use of the pre- pre-school
facilities in Dalry. Given there is an over capacity
of these facilities in Dalry provided by both the
Council and the Glenkens Playgroup, the Council
were investigating options for rationalisation. The
meeting stressed that the Glenkens Playgroup is the
only option for pre- pre- school care in Carsphairn,
as there are no child minders in the village. Next
meeting: Mon 31 Oct, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall.
Full minutes of local Community Council meetings
can be viewed at Dalry Library.
GTI WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE
(registered route)
Outward Journey:
19:00 Dept. Dalry (Underhill)
19:10 New Galloway
19:25 Mossdale
19:35 Laurieston
19:40 Townhead of Greenlaw
19:47 Castle Douglas (Market St)
19:50 Castle Douglas (Tesco)
Return journey:
20:45 Dept. Castle Douglas (Tesco)
20:47 Castle Douglas (Market St)
20:52 Townhead of Greenlaw
21:00 Laurieston
21:10 Mossdale
21:25 New Galloway
21:35 Dalry
To book a GTI bus or for more information please contact keith cooper,
GTI Administrator, on 01644 420374.
FORREST ESTATE
FIREWOOD
Local suppliers of firewood logs,
kindling and chiminea wood.
Hardwood and so�wood
produced from sustainable,
FSC cer�ficated woodland.
Various quan��es available
for collec�on or bulk delivery.
Call for details 01644 430 230
office@forrestestate.com
Glenkens Gazette
page 3
A Full House for Dalry Library
On Tuesday 26 July
local author Margaret
Elphinstone came to Dalry
Library to read from her
books and give a talk
about her work.
Given the limited space for
seating, the Library was feeling
packed to the gunnels.
Margaret began by explaining
how she came to write her
first novel while working as
a Librarian in Shetland. The
locals frequenting her library
were very keen on Norse Sagas
and sea-related fiction, and
she found inspiration from that
as well as in her involvement
in archaeological digs on the
islands. To do the research that
was vital to the book she had to
walk to a phone box and phone
Orkney Library for several hours
at a time! This, of course, was
somewhat before the days of
the internet and other such
conveniences.
After reading exerpts from some
of her books, there were lots
of questions from the audience
about her work and the research
she does for it.
Much envy was expressed by all
when she explained that she has
to go and follow in the footsteps
of her well-travelled characters
as part of the research!
An hour seemed far too short,
but it was soon time to close
and say goodbye. Everyone
RNLI Fundraising
Awards
Committee members
from the Glenkens
RNLI Fundraising Group
recently attended
a presentation of
awards ceremony in
Kirkcudbright where
Marion Bone and Ann
Rusby, both from the
Glenkens, receive RNLI
awards.
The presentations were made by
the Lord Lieutenant, Sir Malcolm
Ross, during an enjoyable
W BONE
WHB JEEPS
THE GARAGE, DALRY
PETROL & DIESEL SALES
SERVICE & REPAIRS
MOTs, TYRES, BATTERIES
ALL AT COMPETITIVE PRICES
OPEN 8.30AM - 6.00PM (SIX DAYS)
10AM - 6PM SUNDAYS
SHOP • SANDWICH BAR • LOTTERY
Tel: 01644 430208 Fax: 01644 430669
email: jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk
evening with
wine and
canapes.
Last year Marion Bone and
Ann Rusby stepped down after
many years fundraising for the
Lifeboats here in the Glenkens.
Ann was Treasurer for over 10
years and received a Special
Certificate of Thanks. Marion
Bone was Chairman of the
Glenkens Group for 19 years
and under her stewardship over
£11,000 was raised for the
RNLI; for her hard work and
dedication she was awarded the
RNLI Silver Medal.
The Lifeboats receive no
Government money but
rely instead on voluntary
donations to meet the cost of
maintaining its 24 hour search
agreed it had been thoroughly
enjoyable.
I’d like to thank those who came
along and also Margret for her
inspiring and fascinating talk.
Angela Miller, Dalry Librarian
and rescue service.
Residents of the Glenkens
have always been generous
supporters of the RNLI and with
over 900 people rescued by
Scotland’s lifeboats last year it is
gratifying to know the money is
going to good use.
Free range pork for
the freezer
£100 for half a pig cut up and vacuumpacked. Smaller amounts also available
Tel: 01644 420 249
Mob: 07765 286 141
FHB Fencing
Dalry
Domestic and
Agricultural
Fencing
01644 430 495 (Peter)
or 07767 795 498
(Jonathan)
New Galloway
Golf Club
Founded 1902
www.nggc.co.uk
v 01644 420737 v
Buggies now available for hire
VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME
Glenkens Gazette
page 4
sponsored by
EVERYTHING listed on the Glenkens Freecycle page is FREE - you
just need to contact the owner and go and pick it up!
Anyone can list an item they no longer want, and hopefully someone else in the area is looking for just that thing
and will come and collect it. You can also list items you are looking for, in the hope that someone else is getting rid
of something similar and will get in touch with you. If you would like to list something on this page, please get in
touch with Sarah on 07727 127 997 or email glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk.
Furniture
Adult bed with mid/dark brown
wooden headboards. Can
deliver if necessary. Contact:
430 380
Pine single bed, good condition.
Contact: 430 013
Tall posted bedhead and footer,
dark wood. Contact: 07885 611
360
Clothing
Pair Jigsaw boots brown suede
size 6. Contact: Morag on 430
004
1 pair cloth gardening gloves.
Contact: Morag on 430 004
5 white M & S girl’s school
shirts, age 13. Contact: 430
218
1 Dalry Secondary blue
sweatshirt, small. Contact: 430
2181
Baby clothes for a girl - various,
but lots of pink! A mixture from
0 to about 18 months. Contact:
Sarah on 07727 127 997
Dalry Secondary blue cardigan
(girls), 34”. Contact: 430 218
1 Girl Guide navy hoodie, size
32”. Contact: 430 218
1 black boy’s rain jacket with
detachable black fleece, John
Lewis, age 11/12. Contact: 430
218
Various
12 champagne flutes, 10
matching and 2 a slightly
different design. Contact: Jean
- Packwood End, High Street,
New Galloway, 420 372.
Round mirror with a white
painted wooden ornate frame.
Contact: 430 212
Scanner: Acer ScanPrisa 340
(USB, PC and Mac compatible).
Contact: Margaret on 460 250
Sony Colour TV, 22 inch
Trinitron.
Contact: 460 516
HP DeskJet 930C Colour printer.
Contact: Margaret on 460 250
Scanner, Epson. Contact: Sarah
on 430 138
Electric radiator. Contact:
07769 696116
Scanner, Packard Bell. Contact:
Sarah on 430 138
Demijohns. Contact: 430 281
5 x 15kg butane cylinders (the
blue ones). Contact: Morag on
430 004
10 BBC Good Food magazine
back issues. Contact: Morag on
430 004
3 (probably a lot more)
mountain bike magazine back
issues. Contact: Morag on 430
004
1 Indian cloth bound notebook.
Contact: Morag on 430 004
Childrens
Backpack carrier for baby.
Contact: Sarah on 07727 127
997
938
Victorian style chrome bath
mixer tap with telephone type
shower attachment. Excellent
condition. Contact: Alan on
07769 680 938
Victorian cast iron bath. Roll
top, claw foot. This very heavy
bath has been sitting in my
back garden for many years and
so will need to be renovated if
you want a classy item for your
bathroom. On the other hand
it could be an up-market cattle
trough. If you want it you will
need some very strong friends
to help! Contact: 430 387
Small cast iron Victorian style
fire insert with grate and front.
18ins wide by 30 ins high.
Contact: Alan on 07769 680
938
60 approx cement bricks. Brand
new. Contact: 07769 680 938
WANTED
Stone tumbler. Contact: Emma
on 07885 611 360
Car dog guard. Contact: Jean
on 07917 683 089
For childrens’ clothing see
‘Clothing’ section.
Shoe rack. Contact 07727 127
997
DIY/Home Fittings
Garden summer house.
Contact: Margaret on 460 250
20 Brass stair rods approx
1metre wide. Contact: 07769
680 938
Multi-fuel stove. Contact: 07885
611 360
New, varnished 4 panel pine
door, clear satin varnish finish.
205cm x 83cm. Contact: Dennis
or Rhoda on 430 031
Welsh dresser/dresser/
sideboard. Contact 430 138
14 Cement wall head coping
stones each 900mm long.
Contact: Alan on 07769 680
938
King size bed. Contact Sarah on
430 138
Belfast (ceramic) double sink,
1 side deep, 1 shallow, it is
removed and ready to collect.
Contact: 430 520
100 approx engineering bricks.
Brand new. Contact: 07769 680
Wanted – dog guard for unruly
dog! Contact: 430 607
Any house plants looking for a
new home. Contact: 07885 611
360
Tumble dryer. Contact: Emma
on 07885 611 360
Book Shelves. Contact 07727
127 997
Glenkens Gazette
page 5
sponsored by
Each issue, a member of the community or an expert in the field will
submit an article for our Eco Feature. In this issue we have an article
by Roland Chaplin on community ownership of renewables and energy
storage for local use.
The Scottish
Government
recently announced
a commitment to
supporting communities
towards their owning
at least 500MW of
renewable energy
generation by 2020.
This comes hard on the heels
of the Forestry Commission’s
proposals for partnerships with
local communities to harness
renewable energy from their
estate. In the draft Local Plan
much of the area from just east
of the Hidden Road northwards
through Blackcraig to Windy
Standard is being proposed as
suitable for medium or large
scale wind farm development.
In the past one of the main
concerns about what appeared
to be excessive support for wind
farms, compared with other
sources of renewable energy,
was extreme intermittency and
moderate unpredictability. Two
factors have changed, both
of which offer huge potential
opportunities for future
economic regeneration and
sustainability in the Glenkens
and surrounding area. These are
energy storage and data centre
demand for renewable energy.
Communities elsewhere in
Scotland are going down the
route towards storing energy
in the form of hydrogen
or methane to be used to
generate electricity and heat
when required and to fuel
local transport. The question is
increasingly being asked – why
should large energy corporations
and their shareholders reap
huge profits from a mix of UK
Government subsidies and ‘our’
energy? There still has to be a
national grid and part of it badly
needs upgrading. However,
maybe that does not need to be
to the levels proposed now that
there is a growing realisation
of the importance of using
electricity as near as possible to
where it is generated.
What only a few people seem
to have grasped so far is
that in the future energy and
data will become increasingly
interchangeable. That is
where data centres and cloud
computing come into the picture.
Carbon taxes Europewide (and
perhaps worldwide) look like
rising from around 17% to 60%.
Data centres are already one of
the largest energy user sectors
but through cloud computing
they can also massively
decrease the amount of energy
wasted on our present day
hard drives, lap tops, etc.
There are lots of reasons why
this displacement is highly
desirable. In order not to have
to pay these high and necessary
taxes providers of ‘data centre’
facilities will increasingly want to
have multiple dedicated sources
of renewable energy.
The Glenkens and surrounding
area is particularly well placed
to play a leading role in
demonstrating how a community
can come together to grasp this
opportunity. However, for this
to happen there needs to be the
strongest possible negotiating
team in place to see off
exploitative windfarm developers
and work with those who are
willing to help communities in
the Stewartry to own all or at
least part of any new windfarms.
The same model could also
apply to new hydro schemes,
solar farms, biomass plants,
energy storage systems and
even possibly eventually the
harnessing of tidal and wave
energy from the Solway.
This may all sound like a fanciful
dream and it will take years to
realise as well as a great deal of
hard work. However, faced with
the dual global challenges of
resource depletion and climate
disruption, there seems no other
route to ensure sustainability
and balanced communities in
this area in the future. What
ever we may individually
think, the ‘multi-media’ age
and energy revolutions will
happen. We have a window
of opportunity now not to be
exploited but rather be the
initiators and the beneficiaries.
Do grasp it!
I am happy to remain a contact
point for people wanting to find
out more about how to be part
of this digital multi-media age
and energy revolution.
by Roland Chaplain
Tel: 01644 420361
Email: roland@glenkensbb.co.uk
by Jim McPhee on piano and
Music & Merriment accompanied
keyboard, and music will feature songs from the
On Fiday 7 October there will be an
Evening of Music and Song in New
Galloway Town Hall.
Terri Farley and Colin Feieraband will be
1920’s and 1930’s.
Cheese and wine will be served. The concert is
in aid of Balmaclellan & Kells Church Fund and
tickets, priced £6, may be obtained from Kirk
Session members or by phoning 420 309.
Glenkens Gazette
page 6
October/November
Highlights
The first days of October 2011
mark the first ever Day of The
Region in Dumfries & Galloway,
and the people of the Glenkens
will be out in force, celebrating
all that we have to offer.
At CatStrand we are very excited
to be kicking off the weekend
with a performance by the
CatStrand Youth Players on
Friday 30 September. We are
also delighted to be presenting
an exhibition celebrating both
images of the Glenkens and the
photographers that live here.
Ted & Morag Leeming, Phil
McMenemy and Alan Wright will
be exhibiting from Saturday 1 to
Thursday 13 October.
The season comes to a close with
a performance of The Hunted by
leading theatre company Visible
Fictions, and a visit by comedian
Jo Caulfield who you might
recognise from Mock the week,
Michael MacIntyre’s Comedy
Roadshow or Have I got News for
you. We can’t wait!
We will be well into winter for the
start of our November – February
season, and what better way
to spend the cold nights than
with some excellent CatStrand
entertainment.
We are taking a wee trip over
to Dalry on Friday 4 November
for a nautical journey with All
or Nothing and StrangeBird
Zirkus and their performance
Uncharted Waters; a mixture of
circus dance and theatre using
Chinese Pole and aerial fabrics.
This performance has been made
possible with the kind support off
the Lochinvar Hotel.
All folks over the age of six
should come and join us for The
Curious Scrapbook of Josephine
Bean (Saturday 19 November)
brought to us by Shona Reppe
puppets, and on Monday 21
November Icarus Theatre bring
us a blood- thirsty production
of Macbeth, fresh from great
reviews at the Edinburgh Fringe.
On Saturday 26 November make
sure you join us for Christmas
shopping CatStrand style, where
you can enjoy a relaxed festive
Pre-school Education
in Dalry: Your Views
If you have
an interest
in pre-school
education
in your
community,
then you
may wish to
hear about
a consultation Dumfries &
Galloway Council is carrying out.
Having completed our annual enrolment for
pre-school education the Council has identified
a significant over-capacity in Dalry, with both
the school nursery and Glenkens Playgroup
providing pre-school education.
We are now gathering information and
collecting views to inform any decisions we
make on the future provision of this service.
To find out more or to share your views,
please contact us at by email at
sandra.fisher@dumgal.gov.uk
or call 01387 273950.
atmosphere
with a range of
stalls stocking
crafts, produce
and lots of gifts.
Relax and sip a
glass of mulled
wine while you
ponder your
purchases.
In November
look out for
the launch of
our Family Film
Club; on the first Saturday of
each month we’ll show a family
friendly film. Join up for the year
for entry to all films.
Do you love films? We are
also looking to re-launch our
CatStrand film Club where
members get to choose what
gets shown on our big screen
once a month and discuss it over
a glass of wine of coffee. Please
email jodie@catstrand.com or
call 01644 420 374 if you are
interested in joining.
For information & tickets call
CatStrand on 01644 420 374
or visit www.catstrand.com.
Christmas
Shopping
Event
The CatStrand
Saturday 26th November
2pm-6pm
Take away the stress of Christmas shopping
and buy all your presents locally
at The CatStrand!
Choose from an exclusive seasonal
collection of locally made arts & crafts...
·
·
·
·
Gifts & Cards
Decorations
Local Produce
Chocolate
·
·
·
·
Jewellery
Homewares
Willow Work
Wine Tasting and much
more..
Enjoy live music, mulled wine and mince pies
while you browse....
or visit our webshop for your online shopping
www.spendandraise.com/CatStrand
The CatStrand
New Galloway
01644 420 374
www.catstrand.com
The CatStrand is an operating name of Glenkens
Community & Arts Trust,
a registered Scottish Charity, No. SC032050
Josephine Bean
CatStrand Highlights
Glenkens Gazette
page 7
THE JOY OF BREATHING WITH AWARENESS
For many years I have
experienced breathing
with awareness, and
found it to be one of the
most effective ways to rebalance, calming the mind
and emotions and relaxing
the body.
Many people say; “but I do
breathe or I wouldn’t be alive”.
Yes, but the breath I am speaking
of is practised with a gentle
awareness, allowing the breath
to flow in without stress or strain
- just the act of being aware is so
important.
Most people breathe high in the
upper chest and very shallowly,
without much awareness except
during times of exercise, fear and
anxiety.
Life is so fast paced and most
people seem to rush around in
such a highly stressed way that
the body, mind and emotions
become overwhelmed. Eventually
something has to give and
unfortunately illness and accidents
are usually what stops people from
continuing in this destructive way.
One of the ways to avoid this
happening is to consider some
time set aside to breathe with
awareness.
Any time you feel overwhelmed or
stressed, try to find a quiet place
and bring your full awareness to
RELAXATION AND SELF
AWARENESS
A new evening course over 4 weeks at
THE CATSTRAND
NEW GALLOWAY
Wednesday evenings 7pm - 8.30pm
Starting 12 October 2011
The course will be fun and empowering and
offer much ‘food for thought’.
It is suitable for all ages and particularly
anyone who is wanting to learn easy ways to
manage stress and anxiety and bring more
balance and peace into their daily life.
The course will be run by Julie Ann Jones
who is an experienced facilitator. Her
warmth and compassion gently encourages
all who choose to work with her to open to
their fuller potentials.
New courses planned for SPRING 2012
Please visit website for more info on
the course, tutor, payment and booking
www.newsoulworks.com�01644�460542
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
GLENKENS
MEDICAL PRACTICE
General Medical &
Dispensing Services
The Surgery
High Street
New Galloway
FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL
01644 420234
your breath. Listen to the sound of
your breath and feel it moving in
to the nose and flowing down into
the body, then flowing out again
through the nostrils.
Allow the breath to deepen and
slow down and just observe any
thoughts that come into the mind
without focusing on them, bringing
your attention back to your breath.
Feel the body soften and relax, the
emotions calm, and a deeper sense
of wellness and peace fill you.
In my personal sessions with
clients we breathe together and
this helps the client to move from
a mind to a heart space.
The breath of life is a gift - cherish
your breath.
by Julie Ann Jones
Glenkens Gazette
page 8
long,
Reading Picnic at Those
hot, summer
may not have shaped up,
Dalry Library days
but Aaron, pictured enjoying
To get in the mood for
those long, hot, lazy
days of summer-holiday
reading, S1 pupils
picnicked on the lawn
behind Dalry Library with
lunch and a novel.
strawberries and Sophie
McKenzie’s ‘The Set-Up’,
kept reading regardless. He
read the whole series of five
‘Medusa Project’ novels over
the holiday.
English teacher Mrs. Nurse
and school librarian Jane
Banner plan to make the most
While there, half a dozen of them of the September sunshine
collected their new membership
and have another reading
tickets, adding to the growing
picnic, this time in the school
number of junior library
garden.
members.
goes on in the various communities, the Youth
CatStrand Youth Players Players’ evening will take the form of an ‘Oscars
The Youth Players returned after the
summer break at the beginning of
September and launched straight
into planning their show on Friday 30
September.
The September show is part of the Day of the
Region weekend of events. As the idea of Day
of the Region is to showcase everything that
Ceremony’ to give them the chance to reprise
some of their favourite moments from all of their
productions to date. Everyone is welcome to come
along and join in the fun on the evening and help
the members to celebrate their achievements over
the past three years.
Plans are also afoot to stage a CatStrand
Pantomime before Christmas, involving the Youth
Players with a little help on stage from some of
the adult members of the ’73 Club. Watch out for
Glenkens Horticultural Society
Flower & Vegetable Show
Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP
Solicitors and Estate Agents
Selling properties across
Dumfries & Galloway
01556 503744
www.ggblaw.co.uk
All legal advice
Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie
Kirkcudbright and Dumfries
There were lots of exhibitors at this year’s show,
although due to the changeable weather some
sections were not as full as usual.
The Decorative and Handicraft Sections were
once again was very creative with beautiful
arrangements and original craftwork in all
the categories.
The Flower Section was particularly well entered,
which was surprising due to the very wet and
windy weather recently that so many blooms were
in excellent condition.
The Photographic Section once again had many
entries with the theme ‘Building or Buildings’
there were many interpretations and it was a hard
decision for the judge to make.
Mouthwatering entries in the Produce Section were
on display and of course did I mention the wine
section...?
The Junior Section had lots of imaginative ideas
including the miniature garden, painted stone and
a birthday card for a 100 year old lady.
The Society would like to thank everyone involved
in the show, whether participating, organising,
judging or coming along to support it, because
without you it wouldn’t happen. See you next year!
Joan Berkley on behalf of the Glenkens Society
Glenkens Gazette
Bon Paris
Fourth Year pupil Kirstin
Stalker writes…
On Sunday 3 July we gathered at
Dalry School at 10.45pm to join
Douglas Ewart High School on
a trip to Paris. We embarked on
an extremely long coach journey
down Britain, through the
Eurotunnel and across France.
We finally arrived at our hotel
in Saint Ouen, Paris, and took a
stroll around Paris at night.
In the morning we went
shopping at Les Quatre Temps
shopping centre in La Défense.
After lots of fantastic shopping
and lunch, we saw the sights of
La Défense, the main business
district in France. We then
drove through Paris to the
Sacré Coeur cathedral which
had breathtaking views of
Paris. Before returning to our
hotel, we went to a chocolate
museum which gave us plenty of
information about the history of
page 9
chocolate, and samples too!
That evening we took the Metro
to Les Invalides in the centre
of Paris and went on a boat
trip along the Seine. We got a
brilliant tour of Paris lit up at
night - it was stunning, and was
the highlight of the trip!
We woke bright and early the
next morning and ventured to
the top of the Tour Eiffel. It was
scary but a fantastic opportunity
to see panoramic views of Paris.
When we finally climbed down,
we drove to Notre Dame where
we were entertained by some
very talented pigeons. We then
went to the famous Louvre
museum that houses artwork
and sculptures like the Venus de
Milo and the Mona Lisa. To round
off a great day, we ate at the
Auberge du Louvre restaurant
then returned to the hotel to
pack.
It was a fantastic trip and I will
most definitely be returning to
Paris one day!
Picture: Pupils taking in the view
from the Eiffel Tower.
Crafts for Christmas
This October and November will see two new craft
events happening in the Glenkens.
On Saturday 26 November Mossdale Village Hall will be having
a Craft Fair, and over the weekend of 1 and 2 October Dalry’s
Thursday Craft Group are having an Art & Craft Show.
The Mossdale Fair, which is to raise funds for the village hall, will run
from 10am-4pm and will include ceramics, felted jewellery, painting,
knitting, cross-stitch and much more. Refreshments will be served
and visitors are encouraged to continue on to New Galloway for the
CatStrand’s Christmas Shopping Evening, which runs from 4 to 6pm.
The Dalry Craft Show is in the Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry,
and will run from 11am to 4pm. A wide variety of local artists and
crafts people will be displaying their work, from woodwork to clogs,
spinning to sculpture. Come along and have a look!
CAITLIN’S
COLUMN
Daunting?
Yes. Scary?
Absolutely. Exciting?
Most definitely. There
are a jumble of different
emotions racing around in
my brain at the thought
of leaving home.
I’m still at that point where it’s
not really real - it’s somewhere
in the distant future. In fact,
it’s in less than two weeks...
The fact is I cant wait to
become independent - I’ve
waited so long - but on the
brink of achieving this it just
feels surreal. I don’t think I
will get homesick or sad - sure
I’ll miss my family, but I know
I’ll be home again for holidays.
My main concern is about
finding a good circle of friends.
Everyone tells me it will be
fine and that I will find loads of
people who are just like me.
Right now things are going
steady and slow but by the
time you read this the wind
will have picked up speed and
carried me into the whirlwind
of excitement that is the great
city of Manchester.
From what I imagine I will
have so much fun in my first
term that it will just fly by
and then before I know it
I’ll be home in Galloway and
the narrow lanes, dotted
with bare-branched trees,
will be sparkling with white
crystals of snow. Our house
will be decorated with flashing
icicle lights, the Christmas
tree proudly presented in
the window and I will have a
chance to unwind.
Christmas in Galloway is my
favourite thing in the world! I
don’t know what, maybe it’s
the familiarity of tradition or
the beauty of the snow-coated
landscape or that feeling
of nostalgia I get when we
decorate our tree... All I know
is that I’ll be happy to come
home.
Glenkens Gazette
page 10
fortune. A fortune in care
Are You Entitled to More? ahomes,
care staff, etc.
Unfortunately, the
Stewartry has lost out
again with more money
and more qualified staff
going to support the
Financial Management
and Inclusion Teams
within the other
areas of Dumfries &
Galloway.
We have one advisor to cover
the whole of the Stewartry but,
luckily for us, what a gem she is.
Kay Harper is an angel. She is
a thoughtful, compassionate,
approachable person whose
knowledge and professionalism
shines through. I have worked
with Kay for three years and
have seen the difference she has
made to so many lives with her
advice.
She does a basic financial
assessment and from there
will assist with applications.
Applications, that help to put
more money in people’s pockets.
Money which can help in this
time of inflation and rapidly
increasing prices. Money that
people are entitled but are often
unaware is available to them.
It is not scrounging or being
on welfare it is simply reward/
support for the roles that so
many people in the Glenkens
do. Provide care for loved ones,
often when their own health
is not great. It is not charity
either; supporting carers husbands and wives or other
family members caring within
the home for as long as possible
saves the local government
If you are reading this and live
alone, you may also be entitled
to support that will help you to
continue to live independently
for as long as possible or help
with bills, etc.
Please, if you see that Kay is
coming to your area take the
opportunity to come along and
find out more. We are keen to
run more advice sessions within
the local halls of the Glenkens
but I want to make sure that
Kay’s precious time is well spent
and sessions are well attended.
So, again, please take the jump
and make an appointment next
time Kay is in the area. Get in
touch with me at the CatStrand
on 01644 420 374 to find out
more.
Catherine Phillips, Community
Development Worker
Dalry Angling Association 1930 – 20...?
Dalry Angling Association was
formed in 1930, when a meeting
was called in Dalry Town Hall to
consider a letter from the Hon
Henry Mountjoy Upton of The Holm,
Balmaclellan.
The letter was an offer to the people of
Dalry and Balmaclellan of Moss Roddick and
the River Ken from Dalry to Boat Knowe as
fishing grounds.
At a meeting on 22nd December 1930, the
accounts showed £10 13/- credit balance,
and it was agreed to purchase 250 two year
old trout and release them in Moss Roddick.
They cost £12 13/-. There is no record of how
the shortfall was made up!
I am reminded of the words of Norman
Fitzroy Maclean who at the age of 73 wrote
his iconic novella ‘A river runs through it’.
When Norman was asked by an officer of the
law how he might help a wayward brother he
replied simply; “I would take him fishing”.
Today, Junior members fish for the McAdam
Trophy - the Winner of the Junior Competition
this year was Annabelle McAdam.
Over the years the Committee has changed
fairly frequently and although expenses
had always been given, Honorariums were
introduced to encourage Officers running
the Associations. Efforts have been made
to publicise the Association through a
new website along with articles in local
publications, in the anticipation that new
members will join the Association.
The club has been in existence for
81 years but sadly is in danger of
closure. Membership is down to
24 and it is becoming increasingly
difficult to recruit committee
members, and as such it becomes
difficult to hold meetings through
lack of a constitutional quorum.
Residents of Dalry and Balmaclellan can
join at £12 and anyone joining now for next
season will get the rest of this season for
free.
You can join by e-mailing the secretary direct
from our web site at www.dalryanglingasso
ciation.co.uk. You can also e-mail the web
master direct from the site should you wish
to advertise your shop, hotel, guest house,
holiday cottage or local events for free.
Jeff Hardman
Glenkens Gazette
page 11
Christmas Fun
on the Bus
Even if you don’t
want to do Christmas
shopping, the Glenkens
Transport Initiative
(GTI) have arranged
three trips which can
be just a good day out.
Mon 14 Nov – Hetland Garden
Centre (lunch) and Moffat.
Tue 29 Nov – Ayr - Shopping,
National Hunt Racing or just a
walk by the Sea.
Sat 10 Dec – Historic Carlisle or
Shopping.
Over the summer we again
provided transport for children
attending the D & G Council
Disability Playscheme. It is
very rewarding to be involved
with those less fortunate than
ourselves, and also great to
see both vehicles being used to
such good purpose, including
carrying passengers and their
wheelchairs on local trips.
GTI were nominated for
an award at this years
Stewartry Celebration
of Achievement Awards (see
front page feature). Although we
didn’t win the group prize, it was
nice to be nominated and we
were delighted two of our user
groups (Glenkens Walking Group
and Paddlers for Life) were also
nominated.
Driver Training: By the time
you read this Jon Nimmo will be
a qualified ‘trainer’. Does your
‘user group’ have it’s own driver
or does one need training?
Please contact Keith at The
CatStrand for further details
(420 374).
2011 has been an important
year for GTI with the purchase
of another mini bus. We get
busier and busier and as
Christmas approaches, I would
like to thank everyone who has
had anything to do with the
success of GTI – the Committee,
volunteer drivers, passengers,
the staff at The Catstrand, etc.
I wish you all a Happy Christmas
and look forward to planning
more events for 2012.
Keith Cooper, GTI Administrator
Tea Party
On a glorious afternoon in July
the children and mums of the
Glenkens and local residents
of New Galloway turned out to
support Marie Curie Cancer Care
by taking part in a Blooming
Great Children’s Tea Party.
It was a fun afternoon that
everyone enjoyed and we raised
a fantastic total of £282 for
Marie Curie.
Thanks go to The Smithy Tea
Room, Kitty’s Tea Room, The
CatStrand, Loch Ken Water
Ski Centre, Marie at Hopkins
shop, Leeming Paterson
Photographers, Sarah Ade and
Jake and Zoe Hall, as well as the
mums and children who baked,
and Yvonne Peacock and Sue
Rothwell who helped organise
the event.
carricks of
carsphairn
Convenience Store and Tea Room/Garden
A warm welcome awaits customers old and new!
Enjoy a browse around the shop, which stocks all your
daily requirements. Post Office open 11am to 1pm
Monday to Saturday. Locally made woollens, gifts and
cards available.
Enjoy a light meal in the Tea Room, which is open
all year round (except Christmas Day). Our menu has
something for most tastes including home-made pies,
scones and soups. Our garden has the most wonderful
views all year round...
We are open:
Mon to Fri
7am - 6pm
Saturdays
8am - 6pm
Sundays
9am - 5pm
Wine & Dine
Enjoy our ‘new’ Gastro Menu, using locally sourced
ingredients, in our delightful Bistro se�ing this
autumn with our Wine & Dine offer:
Select a two course meal for 2 from the Gastro Menu and
enjoy a bo�le of house wine with your meal for only £ 1 .
(Offer available throughout October and November)
Gastro Menu served Wednesday - Sunday
from 5.00pm - 9.00pm
Sunday Lunch
3 courses with coffee - £11.95
12.00pm - 5.00pm
Christmas Menus
Bookings now being taken for Christmas Day Lunch
Functions
We cater for functions and parties.
Please call in to discuss your requirements.
St. John’s Town of Dalry
Tel: 01644 430 107
www.lochinvarhotel.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 12
Update from the Community Uncharted
Garden and Allotment Project Waters
Blimey, that’s a bit of
a mouthful!
So, to start with, we could
do with a new snappy name
that sums up what we are all
about...‘The Green’ or ‘Oasis’
or ‘Sanctuary’ perhaps? Any
suggestions are very welcome!
Anyway, we are very sorry to
be saying farewell to Wendy
Fenton, who sadly is leaving
the project after getting it off
to a good start.
So I will be taking it from here
- my name is Catherine Phillips
- and I am delighted to have
been offered the post.
I’ll be sorry to be leaving my
role at the CatStrand, where
I’ve had a great three years
and it has been a joy to have
got to know so many people.
Working at the CatStrand has
with out a doubt helped me
feel more settled and part of
this community.
I hope that the Allotment
and Community Garden will
have the same effect, and will
bring people together to work
collectively on a specific task or
over a cuppa in the communal
shelter.
I love allotments, allotment
culture and shared community
gardens. They play such an
important role - not only
do they provide a means of
providing food for our families,
but increase our physical
activity levels, mental health
and wellbeing, making us fitter
and healthier.
Allotments and gardens
can mean different things
for different people or at
different times in our lives. I
am certain that my allotment
in Nottingham was crucial
in helping me get through a
marital breakup by providing
me with somewhere to escape
to and get physically tired
out from – making me sleep
better at night and more able
to cope with stresses. Now I
am looking forward to a place
where I can escape to from
the never-ending chaos of a
household with four kids!
Luckily we plan to incorporate a
play area into the site, making
it family friendly and enabling
parents to dig whilst children
are busy playing with others.
Bliss...
Anyway, I hope to see you
at the allotments, or in the
community garden - everyone
is welcome to come down and
take a look and get involved,
whatever their level of
expertise.
If anyone is interested in
contributing to a regular
garden column please
get in touch with myself,
Catherine Phillips, either on
catherinep@catstrand.com or
420 374.
Cheers, Catherine
The Clog & Shoe
Workshop
unique handmade footwear
open 10am - 5pm weekdays
Easter Mon to 31st October
please ring to arrange a visit at
other times
Tel: 01644 420 465
visit our new online shop at
www.clogandshoe.co.uk
For the first time since
opening in 2007,
Catstrand is presenting
a performance off-site
at Dalry Town Hall.
On Friday 4 November, at
7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall will
host Uncharted Waters.
This is an exciting new circus
dance theatre show currently
touring Scotland, and is a
creative collaboration between
Strangebird Zirkus and All or
Nothing aerial dance theatre.
Both companies are at the
forefront of a dynamic new
performance style emerging
in Scotland, which crosses the
boundaries between circus,
dance and theatre.
Thanks go to the Lochinvar Hotel
for making this performance
possible.
To book tickets, please call
CatStrand on 01644 420374 or
visit www.catstrand.com.
Glenkens Gazette
page 13
LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN
The Glenkens Witches
It is often thought that
historians are triumphalist
about the past they study,
but in fact they often
have to confront some of
the dark stains upon their
nation’s history.
One of these, in Scotland, was the
phenomenon of the Witch Hunt. Between
1563 and 1736 there were 3837 accusations
throughout the country of which around
2000 ended in execution. Some 80% were
women.
In Dumfries and Galloway there were
128 cases. Many of the victims suffered
appalling tortures before being condemned
to death. Thankfully, very few were
burned alive; they were first strangled.
The favoured method for detecting
witches in Scotland was sleep deprivation,
which then, as now, was an unofficial, but
effective, torture.
The first of our Glenkens witches was
Janet Macmurdoch of Airds on the
shore of Loch Ken where her husband,
James Hendrie, was a tenant farmer.
Her troubles began when John Moor of
Barlay, Balmaclellan, baron-baillie of the
estate seized some of Janet’s livestock for
unpaid rent, whereupon she vowed to do
him an ‘evil turn’. When a cow and calf
belonging to Moor died, he challenged
Janet who retorted that there was worse
to follow. When his child died, “sweating
to death’, he accused Janet of being a
witch of long standing. Soon after others
were making similar statements about her.
Calves and horses died. One farmer lost 15
cattle, three horses, and his wife; another’s
child drowned in a peat bog. There were
disputes about pasturage.
William Gordon of Minibouie drove
Janet’s livestock off his grass and she
cursed him, hoping he would have fewer
cattle to eat his grass next season, which
happened when twelve of his oxen and
seven horses died. Janet’s daughter was
employed by Margaret Maclellan in
Boghall. When sent to muck out the byre
she was found disporting herself in the
dung. “Playing some of her mother’s
devilish tricks” was how Ms Maclellan
described it, whereupon her husband fell
ill. Disputing with another farmer Janet
‘bade the divill pyk out his eyn’. She just
could not contain herself, an unwelcome
quality in patriarchal Galloway. Before he
died the sick man “left his death upon her,
and ordained his friends to pursue her as a
witch and a necromancer”.
Folk began to recall other incidents over
the years. She was indicted in 1671 for
having taken service with Satan, and
practising “sundrie devilische charmes
witchcraft and sorcerie”. She was tried
by jury in Dumfries, found guilty by a
majority of one vote, and executed.
Elspeth McEwen of Boghall, Cubbox,
Balmaclellan was said to be a woman of
superior education. Curiously she lived
at Boghall, the same place as Margaret
Maclellan twenty years earlier. Elspeth
allegedly used her talents to bewitch hens
into laying extraordinary quantities of
eggs or to cause them to stop producing
altogether. She also used a wooden pin to
steal milk from cows. This was a perennial.
The overproduction or underproduction
of milk was almost universally attributed
to witchcraft. These are matters that may
seem trivial now but they loomed large in
agricultural communities.
She bewitched the minister’s horse so that
it sweated blood when the reverend was
sent to bring Elspeth before the session.
In later years the road leading to the manse
at Balmaclellan was known as ‘Bloody
Brae’, a designation that seems to have
been forgotten today. She was also accused
of correspondence with the Devil. She
was arrested and placed in Kirkcudbright
tolbooth where she toughed it out for
two years before being tormented into
confession. One person stood up for her.
Janet Corbie “endeavoured to dissuade
her to confess” saying that people “sinned
their sowl” who said she was a witch. To
no avail. We have the accounts for her
execution in 1698, late even by Scottish
standards.
“Peats to burn Elspeth with”
cost £1 Scots, with coals added
for good measure.
It cost two shillings to buy a pint of ale for
the executioner William Kirk, “when she
was burning” and another 13 shillings for
further quantities of booze, hopefully to
drown his shame.
Neither of the victims were poor; one
owned property and the other was well
educated. Two independent-minded
Glenkens women died for a phantom
crime, martyrs to the petty-mindedness
of their neighbours, a pitiless kirk and a
merciless state.
Ted Cowan
Balmaclellan
Bonfire Night
Sat 5 Nov - 6.30pm
£2.50 (soup included)
The Fleet Fish van is in the Glenkens
on Tuesdays & Wednesdays every
week. Anyone wishing me to call,
please phone Mary on above mobile no.
There will be a bar, hot-dogs,
mulled wine, and 2 gazebos in
case the weather isn’t so good!
The fireworks will be
followed by a family-friendly
ceilidh in the Village Hall.
Glenkens Gazette
page 14
GLENKENS DIARY...
SEPTEMBER
Fri 30 Sept - Sun 2 Oct, Watson
Bird Celebrations, various locations
around Dalry
Fri 30, CatStrand Youth Players
Performance, CatStrand
OCTOBER
Sat 1 & Sun 2, Day of the Region
Sun 2, Day of the Region Dragon
Boat Race Day, Galloway Activity
Centre
Sun 2 & Mon 3, Dalry Craft Group
Exhibition, Dalry Community
Centre, see p9
Sun 2, Day of the Region Walk,
starts in field alongside Dalry
Church
Wed evenings starting 12 Oct,
Relaxation & Self Awareness, 78.30pm, CatStrand
Wed 12, 10am – 3pm, Fun with
Flowers, £15, CatStrand
Thurs 13, 7:30pm, Film: Life,
Above All, £5/4, CatStrand
Tues 25, 7pm, The Hunted, £5/4,
CatStrand
Thurs 27, 7:30pm, Jo CaulfieldCruel To Be Kind, £10/8, CatStrand
CHURCH OF
SCOTLAND
Sundays: Balmaclellan:
12noon 1st, Carsphairn:
10.30am 1st 2nd 3rd 4th, Dalry:
12noon 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th (Oct),
Kells: 10.30am 2nd (Oct) 3rd 4th
Special Services/
Events: 2 Oct, 10.30 am:
Harvest Thanksgiving Service
in Carsphairn Church,
followed by Harvest Lunch in
Lagwyne Hall
7 Oct, 7.30 pm: Evening of
Music & Song, New Galloway
Town Hall
24 Oct, 7.30 pm: Fellowship
Dinner at Kenbridge Hotel
with Gavin and Des Campbell
from South Africa
30 Oct, 10.30 am: United
Service with Glenkens
Church Choir in Dalry Church
11 Nov, 7.30 pm: Quiz Night
in Balmaclellan Village Hall
13 Nov, 11 am: Ceremonies
Sat 1 – Thurs 13, Photographers
of the Glenkens
, CatStrand
Sat 26, Craft Fair, 10am-4pm,
Mossdale Village Hall, see p9
Sat 15 – Thurs 27, Mossdale Art
Group Exhibition, Catstrand
Sat 26, 2-6pm, CatStrand
Christmas Shopping, FREE,
CatStrand
Sat 29 Oct – Thurs 1 Dec,
Exhibition: Ross Fulton & Jenny
Ford, CatStrand
Sat 26, 10am-4pm, Living Willow
Structures, £10, CatStrand
NOVEMBER
Sun 27, 10am –4pm, Building a
Community Composting Toilet, £10,
CatStrand
Fri 4, 7.30pm, All or Nothing &
Strangebrid Zirkus - Unchartered
Waters, £10/8, Dalry Town Hall
Sun 27, 7.30pm, Jenna & Bethany
Reid & The Shetland Bus, £10/8,
CatStrand
Sat 5, Balmaclellan Bonfire Night,
6.30pm, £2.50 (soup included).
Followed by family-friendly ceilidh
in Balmaclellan Village Hall
Tue 29, GTI trip to Ayr - Shopping,
National Hunt Racing or just a walk
by the Sea, see p11
Sat 12, 10.30am-12noon,
Pickles, Chutneys and Christmas
Mincemeat, £2, CatStrand
Mon 14, 5pm-7pm, Introduction to
Email, £10, CatStrand
Mon 14, GTI trip to Hetland
Garden Centre & Moffat, see p11
Sat 19, 2pm, Shona Reppe
Puppets: The Curious Scrapbook of
Josephine Bean, £4, CatStrand
DECEMBER
Thurs 1, 7.30pm, CatStrand Panto,
£5/3, CatStrand
Fri 2, 7.30pm, CatStrand Panto, 5/
3, CatStrand
Sat 3 Dec – Thurs 26 Jan,
Exhibition: Sarah Keast, CatStrand
Mon 5, 5-7pm, Internet Workshop,
£10, CatStrand
Mon 21, 7.30pm, Icarus Theatre:
Macbeth, £10/8, CatStrand
Fri 9, 7.30pm, Finding Albert, £8/7,
CatStrand
Thurs 24, 7.30pm, Film: Potiche,
£5/4, CatStrand
Sat 10, GTI trip to Historic Carlisle
at New Galloway &
Balmaclellan War Memorials
followed by Remembrance
Service in St Margaret’s
Church
25 Nov, 7.30 pm: Scottish
Night in Dalry Town Hall
Communion
Service: 23 Oct, 12
noon, Dalry Church
6 Nov, 12 noon, Balmaclellan
Church
20 Nov, 10.15 am, Carsphairn
Church
SCOTTISH
EPISCOPAL
CHURCH (C of E): St
Margaret’s, New Galloway:
Holy Communion - 10.30am
every Sun & Wed.
CATHOLIC CHURCH
SERVICES: Gatehouse
of Fleet: Sat, 6pm.
Kirkcudbright: Sun, 9.30am.
Dalbeattie: Sun, 11am. St
Ninian’s, Castle Douglas: Rev
McFadden - 01557 330687.
or Shopping, see p11
ADVERTISE IN
THE GAZETTE
(per issue)
6cm x 6cm - £31.50 (10% series discount)
1/4 page (9cm w x 13cm h) - £68.25
(25% series discount)
1/2 page (18cm w x 13cm h) - £126
(25% series discount)
Full Page (18cm w x 27cm h) - £210
(25% series discount)
Call 07727 127 997 TO BOOK
YOUR AD TODAY
USEFUL NUMBERS:
● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000
● Local Police: 0845 600 5701
● Doctor: 01644 420 234
● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24
● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000
Dalry Library
Tue: 2 - 4.30pm
then 5.30 - 7.30pm
Fri: 11:15am - 1:15pm
then 2 - 4.30pm
23 mobile library stops
- to find out where and
when call 430 234
Glenkens Gazette
page 15
OCTOBER & NOVEMBER
REGULAR EVENTS:
Scouts: Mon, 7–8.30pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.4511.15am, New Galloway Town Hall
Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Dog Training: 1st, 2nd, & 4th/5th
Tue of the month (not on last Tue of
Nov), 7pm, Dalry Town Hall, contact
460 670
Stewartry Camera Club: Wed,
7.30pm, The Tolbooth, Kirkcudbright
Mossdale Painters: Wed, 9.30am,
Mossdale Village Hall
Cub Scouts: Wed, 6.45–8pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Thursday Lunch Club: 12.30pm,
New Galloway Town Hall, fortnightly
starting 6 Jan, £3, contact - Raymond
Vincent, 01644 420451.
Lions Club monthly quiz:
alternating between The CatStrand
& Lochinvar Hotel, contact - Andrew
Frew, 01644 420 323
The CatStrand, New Galloway
(01644 420 374) :
Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am
Play it by Ear: Mon during term
time, 1.30-2.30pm
Children’s Dance Class: Mon during
term time, 3.45-4pm, age 3-7
Carers Coffee & Chat: Tues, 10am12noon
Town Hall, £4
Gentle Yoga & Relaxation: Thurs,
10-11.15am
Sing it Out: Thurs, 11.30am12.30pm
Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri each
month, 2pm
Family Film Club: 1st Sat each
month, 11am, £20/
£10 membership
Saturday Art
Club: 2nd Sat each
month, 10am–
12noon
Catstrand Youth
Players: Sun
during term time,
2pm
Glenkens
Community
Centre (Dalry):
Glenkens
Playgroup: MonFri, 9.15-11.45am
(contact - Julie
01644 460 687)
Paint & Art: Mon,
1.30-4.30pm &
Wed, 7-9pm
Ballroom & Latin
Dance drop-in:
Mon, 7.30-9pm, £5
Taking the First Step in
Computing: Wed, 5.30-7.30pm
Ballroom & Latin
Dance course:
Mon, 9-10pm, for
more info tel Sam
Hood on 01644
420672
Boxercise: Wed, 7-8pm, £4, New
Galloway Town Hall
Good Neighbours
Club: Tues, 2pm
Zumba: Wed: 8-9pm, New Galloway
Kickback Martial
Teen Spirit: Tues during term time,
7.30-9.30pm
Real Dog Training
“Is your dog ruining your life?”
REAL solutions for REAL problems in
REAL situations to make
a REAL difference.
CALL ERIC NOW
Home: 01644 460670
Mobile: 07831 590822
Eric Broadhurst (NDOA
Advanced Instructor)
35 years dog trainer to the TV
and film industry
look up our new exciting
website at
www.realdogtrainingscotland.co.uk
Arts: Tues & Thurs, 7-9pm, both
adults & children welcome
Glenkens Mother & Toddlers:
Wed, 1.30-3pm
Thursday Craft Group: starts again
Thurs 20 Oct, 2-4pm
Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm
Guides: Wed, 5.30-7pm
Your Views
Wanted
Forestry Commission Scotland has
recently acquired Bartaggart Farm
for new planting and we would like to
find out what the local people think
– what would be good, what’s not so
great and what could be changed.
Why?
The aim is to understand and highlight the
issues that are important to the community
and will act as a guide for the forest design
plan for Bartaggart.
Who can take part?
We are looking for the views of all age groups.
Anyone living in and around Balmaclellan.
Come and have your say at our drop-in:
Thursday 29 September, 2 - 7pm,
Balmaclellan Village Hall
T. H. CARSON
BUTCHERS
See us at Dalry Farmers
Market on 2nd Sat each month.
We deliver
every Thursday
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Give us a call,
no order too small!
THE CROSS, MILL ST, DALBEATTIE
01556 610384
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Glenkens Gazette
page 16
ANOTHER ALTERNATIVE SUCCESS
This year’s Games were another
great success, with an excellent
crowd considering the showery
conditions.
(provided by Galloway Activity Centre).
The Community Council would like to thank
everyone who helped to make the Games a
great success once again.
Ladies’ gird ‘n’ cleek.
All the old favourites such as
tossing the sheaf, the tractor
pull and of course the gird ‘n’
cleek world championships
were enjoyed, as well as new
additions to the day such as
archery (provided by Laggan
Outdoor) and laser quest
page - and it was a huge
Fantastic success!
Freecycle
The last issue of the
Gazette saw our first
ever Glenkens Freecycle
for free, and for the Gazette as it
shows how many people read it!
Take a look at Page 4 now to
Almost every item had enquiries,
grab a bargain. And if you have
and many were snapped up
anything you would like to list
straight away, which is brilliant
on the Glenkens Freecycle page,
news for everyone; those getting
please get in touch on 07727 127
rid of things, those getting things
997.
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: Mon 7 Nov
Design & co-ordination:
Sarah Ade
sarah_ade@tiscali.co.uk
Printing:Stranraer &
Wigtownshire Free Press
www.stranraer-freepress.co.uk
The Glenkens Gaze�e is an ini�a�ve of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Sco�sh Charity No. SC032050
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Glenkens Gazette 66
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Glenkens Gazette
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GCAT
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2011
Description
An account of the resource
Editor: Sarah Ade
-
https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/213/GlenkensGazette67.pdf
06ab0a9d254696e7c87d20049fab0b24
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<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> </span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p>
<p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span> </span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p>
<p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p>
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GLENKENS GAZETTE
news from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry
ISSUE 67
FREE
Creative Cookery
Winner
Agnes Holden from
Carsphairn recently
beat off a host of other
entrants in the Daily
Record ‘Love Food Hate
Waste’ competition.
The competition is part of
a government initiative to
raise awareness about food
wastage. The Love Food
Hate Waste website states:
“In Scotland we throw away
566,000 tonnes of food waste
from our homes every year
and of that 69% could have
been avoided if we managed
our food better. This is an
expensive habit and costs
each household an average of
£430 each year!”
The idea of the
contest was for
entrants to make
the most of the
food in their fridge,
and the task set
was to create
a great recipe
using leftover
ingredients, plus a
few store cupboard
essentials. The
leftovers included
roast lamb,
tomato, onion,
potatoes and red
pepper.
The finalists were
judged by Michael
Kilkie, Sunday Mail
chef, John Quinn,
Head Chef at
Tennent’s Training
Academy, and
Chris Morrison
of Zero Waste
Scotland.
Agnes’ winning
dish was Patties
and Pakora with a
Tomato and Pepper
relish.
Michael Kilkie said:
“To come up with
a dish like that
and then make it
under competition
conditions showed
a lot of skill”.
Agnes will be
running a regular
slot with seasonal
recipes for Gazette
readers - so keep
your eyes peeled
for this in our next
issue!
BIRD CELEBRATIONS TAKE OFF
Dalry School children with their bird sculptures.
The first ever Watson
Bird Celebrations
attracted over 300
guests and participants
to Dalry during the
weekend of Fri 30 Sept
to Sun 2 Oct.
The programme of events was
organised to celebrate the life
and work of renowned local bird
artist and ornithologist Donald
Watson and his son Jeff, the well
known international expert on the
golden eagle and former Director
at SNH. See p3 for more.
A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve
www.glenkensgaze�e.com
Agnes Holden with Michael Kilkie
December/January 2011/12
Glenkens Gazette
page 2
We would like to wish all our readers a
happy Christmas and a wonderful start
to 2012.
Why not shop and eat local this Christmas?
There’s tons on offer around the Glenkens,
from locally made Christmas wreaths and
delicious hampers to handmade gifts. And
enjoy a festive feast at one of our great local
eateries, all of which are offering wonderful
Christmas and New Year menus.
New Galloway Golf Club
New Galloway Golf Club’s annual Dinner
and Prize Presentation Night was held
at the Ken Bridge Hotel on Saturday 5
November, with over 40 members and
guests in attendance.
Throughout 2012 we will look at what it is
that makes the Glenkens special, and what
it takes to keep our community vibrant and
active. What do you think?
Captain Dick Tulloch presented trophies to the
winners of the Ladies Competitions, and the
Lady Captain, Elena Rogers, then reciprocated
by presenting the winners of the Gentlemens’
Section. The season has been a great success,
with good competitive golf mixed in with social
golf and other events.
Applications are being taken for membership and
anyone interested should contact Club secretary,
Ian Brown on 420 737 or visit www.nggc.co.uk.
THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL
Community
Dalry Library Dalry
Council (DCC) has
Support your local community this
festive season.
New Galloway
Christmas: Pre-Xmas lunches
and evening meals will be served from
Thursday 1st December.
New Year: On Saturday 31st December
there will be a special three course menu and
entertainment with live music from Jim Howard.
been researching the history of ownership of Dalry
Library. The library was given freely to Stewartry
District Council in 1946 so has never been the
property of the village. There are, however,
heritable burdens attaching to the deed; it has
to be used as a library and known as Gourlay
Memorial Library and if the Council no longer
want the library, they have to hand it back to the
Gourlays.
A legal opinion was sought on the matter, and it
seems that if the Council wish to sell the library,
the burden attaching to the building would need
to be overturned and at that point DCC could
challenge the application.
Open 7 Days : Beautiful Riverside
Location
M E A L S S E RV E D
12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm
SUNDAY LUNCH CARVERY
bed and breakfast
en suite accommodation
01644 420 211
mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk
www.kenbridgehotel.co.uk
Dalry Community Council: It was agreed
that the CC would support the continuation of
Glenkens Playgroup. Next meeting: Mon 5 Dec, 7pm,
Dalry Town Hall.
New Galloway & Kells Community Council:
Next meeting: Mon 12 Dec, 7.30pm, New Galloway
Town Hall.
Balmaclellan Community Council: Next
meeting: Mon 30 Jan, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall.
Carsphairn Community Council: Regarding
the village pub, the late owner’s executor has
approached the Community Council - it was
agreed that an estimate the cost of restoring the
building fabric would be looked into. Next meeting:
Mon 30 Jan, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall.
Full minutes of local Community Council meetings
can be viewed at Dalry Library.
GTI WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE
(registered route)
Outward Journey:
19:00 Dept. Dalry (Underhill)
19:10 New Galloway
19:25 Mossdale
19:35 Laurieston
19:40 Townhead of Greenlaw
19:47 Castle Douglas (Market St)
19:50 Castle Douglas (Tesco)
Return journey:
20:45 Dept. Castle Douglas (Tesco)
20:47 Castle Douglas (Market St)
20:52 Townhead of Greenlaw
21:00 Laurieston
21:10 Mossdale
21:25 New Galloway
21:35 Dalry
To book a GTI bus or for more information please contact keith cooper,
GTI Administrator, on 01644 420374.
CARSPHAIRN
BURNS SUPPER
Thurs 19th January, 7.30pm
Guest Artists Include:
Mark Laird (Immortal Memory)
Walker McKenna
Margaret Heuchan
Tickets £10
Phone Jean Gibbon on
01644 460 244
Glenkens Gazette
page 3
wide variety
Continued from Front Page... the
of events. Over
Dalry Town Hall was the centre
for the Creative Explorer
Children’s Art Exhibition, and
an Exhibition of works by artists
John Threlfall, Lisa Hooper,
Paul Collin and Silvana McLean.
Donald Watson’s family also
generously made available a
selection of his own work.
On Saturday the art exhibitions
were supplemented with
information stands promoting
wildlife organisations and
children’s workshops. For the
more active there were Guided
Walks led by RSPB’s Chris Rollie
and Andrew Bielinski, both
Dalry residents.
Watson Bird Project Director,
Roger Crofts, said: “We are
delighted by the number of
people – locals and visitors who attended throughout the
three days, and by the real
‘buzz’ created in the village by
500 attended
one or more event. The very
positive reaction from both
audiences and participants
is extremely encouraging as
we begin planning for annual
Watson Bird Celebrations in the
future.”
The group of 12 to 14
year olds from Teen
Spirit, the Glenkens
youth club that meets
at the CatStrand on
Tuesday evenings, took
to the road on Saturday
24 and Sunday 25
September. They took
a whistle-stop tour of
six of the 36 local sites
taking part in Doors
Stag Tea Room
& Garden
Open Days.
Celebrating 21 years
in Scotland this year,
Doors Open Days is
the national weekend
event that opens up all
manner of places to the
public free of charge.
The Youth Challenge
and internship were
new Doors Open Days
initiatives introduced
and managed by
Glenkens Community
& Arts Trust this year,
and made possible
by funding from
Dumfries-based charity
the Holywood Trust
alongside financial
support from Dumfries
& Galloway Council.
W BONE
WHB JEEPS
THE GARAGE, DALRY
PETROL & DIESEL SALES
SERVICE & REPAIRS
MOTs, TYRES, BATTERIES
ALL AT COMPETITIVE PRICES
OPEN 8.30AM - 6.00PM (SIX DAYS)
10AM - 6PM SUNDAYS
SHOP • SANDWICH BAR • LOTTERY
Tel: 01644 430208 Fax: 01644 430669
email: jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk
Such was the success of this
year’s events, especially the
very positive feedback from
participants and from the Dalry
community, we are making
plans for our second celebration
in autumn 2012. Watch this
space for details.
There were some unique events
over the weekend. On the
Friday, Dalry Primary School
hosted pupils from Dalry Road
Primary School in Edinburgh.
For more info contact Sarah
The Edinburgh children brought
Keast at sarah@watsonbirds.org
beautifully carved and painted
bird sculptures and donated
or on 07716 170 871.
some to their hosts. The local
children made
birds boxes
for distribution
around the area.
We hope that
the visit will be
the beginning of
twinning between Carricks, Main Street, Carsphairn, DG7 3TQ
the two schools.
DOORS OPEN ADVENTURE
Nine children, six
locations, two days
and almost 200
miles – it all adds
up to the first ever
Youth Challenge,
held as part of this
year’s Doors Open
Days weekend.
The Watson Bird Celebrations
were supported by Day of the
Region, and the whole Watson
Bird Centre and Celebration
project is funded by LEADER,
SNH and the Big Lottery.
Tel: 01644 460 211
We hope you enter a stranger, leave as a
friend and return as a regular!
During the winter months enjoy a light meal in
front of our open fire with home-made pies, scones
and soups, and rolls with hot or cold fillings.
We hope soon to introduce a range of gluten &
wheat free pastries and cakes.
Our garden has a wonderful view and the tea room
is open all year round.
Hours for Christmas / New Year are:
Xmas Eve - 9am to 4pm
Xmas Day – closed
th
26 Dec to 3rd Jan - open 10am to 3pm
Take out menu available
- ring in your order in and
we can have it ready for
collection.
FHB Fencing
Dalry
Domestic and
Agricultural
Fencing
01644 430 495 (Peter)
or 07767 795 498
(Jonathan)
New Galloway
Golf Club
Founded 1902
www.nggc.co.uk
v 01644 420737 v
Buggies now available for hire
VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME
Glenkens Gazette
page 4
sponsored by
EVERYTHING listed on the Glenkens Freecycle page is FREE - you
just need to contact the owner and go and pick it up!
Anyone can list an item they no longer want, and hopefully someone else in the area is looking for just that thing
and will come and collect it. You can also list items you are looking for, in the hope that someone else is getting rid
of something similar and will get in touch with you. If you would like to list something on this page, please get in
touch with Sarah on 07727 127 997 or email glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk.
Furniture
Adult bed with mid/dark brown
wooden headboards. Can deliver
if necessary. Contact: 430 380
Navy blue child’s sofabed 135cm wide x 65cm deep x
70cm high. Contact: 430 218
Pine single bed, good condition.
Contact: 430 013
Various
Leather briefcase, complete
with brand new Filofax inside.
Contact: Jean 420 372.
Scanner: Acer ScanPrisa 340
(USB, PC and Mac compatible).
Contact: Margaret on 460 250
HP DeskJet 930C Colour printer.
Contact: Margaret on 460 250
Scanner, Epson. Contact: Sarah
on 430 138
Electric radiator. Contact: 07769
696116
Scanner, Packard Bell. Contact:
Sarah on 430 138
7 Iain Banks paperbacks
(fiction). Contact: Ellie on 430
607
Nikon Coolpix 775 Digital
camera complete with case,
instructions, charger and
memory card. Contact: Fiona on
07789 903127
Drawing/draught board.
Contact: 07796 268 995
Filing cabinet files – small and
large size ones. Contact: Sarah
430 138
Small wooden dog kennel with
flat metal roof, 2’6” deep, 1’9”
wide and 1’ 9” high – suitable
for small dog to live outside.
Contact: Keith Cooper 01644
450 201
Man’s bike, three-speed hub
gears, old but everything
works, needs new brake blocks.
Contact: Ian on 450 618.
Childrens’
2 almost never used booster
seats. They just need a wash
as they’ve been in storage.
Contact: Morag 430 004
Box of ‘pirate’ lego including 2
ships and lots of men. Contact:
430 218
2 child’s sleeping bags - one
with teddys, the other with
animals. Contact: 430 218
Selection of Thunderbird toys,
including Tracy Island. Contact:
430 218
Rocking horse needs pastures
new. Wooden with painted
Native American style patterns.
Excellent rocking on gliders.
Base frame 38” long. Saddle
height 27”. Contact: Jane on
430 199 or 07768 481554.
Selection of Dr Who toys,
including 3 daleks. Contact:
430 218
DIY/Home Fittings
Pair of black wrought iron wall
lights each with 2 bulb holders.
Contact : Fiona on 07789
903127
Pair of pretty floral curtains
(Jane Churchill), lined and
interlined, 134cm long x 128cm
wide (each). Contact: 430 218
14 Cement wall head coping
stones each 900mm long.
Contact: Alan on 07769 680 938
3 Ceramic Butler’s sinks. Not
good enough for a kitchen
but suitable for planters or
outbuilding use. Contact : Alan
on 07769 680938
Victorian cast-iron corner
manger. Tatty – needs wire
brushing and re-painting.
Would be good for plants. Buyer
collects – very heavy. Ring Sue
in the evenings on 07554 644
993
2 Brand new railway sleepers
each 2.6m long. Contact : Alan
07769 680938
WANTED
Lego (not Duplo) for busy boy
aged 4. Contact: Ellie on 430
607
Wooden supports for 4 poster
bed. Contact: 07796 268 995
Children’s wooden train set.
Contact Sarah on 430 138
a right, not a privilege? Every two-year-old in
Glenkens and elsewhere should have the right
PLAYGROUP UPDATE isthe
to pre-school education. That has now been taken
On Thurs 17 Nov, Dumfries &
Galloway’s Education Committee met
to discuss the ‘Rationalisation of PreSchool Education in Dalry’.
The Committee voted that the funding for pre-school
children (aged three to five) to attend Glenkens
Playgroup be withdrawn from August 2012.
During these difficult economic times I believe
that the council should be investing in our young
people and supporting our vulnerable rural
communities. I have heard council officials say
Dalry has been ‘privileged’ to have had a choice of
pre-school provision for so long. Surely education
away from us as Dalry Nursery cannot accept a
child until the term after he or she turns three.
I will do my utmost to try to keep the
Glenkens Playgroup running in some
capacity. Many members of the community
have pledged their support in finding alternative
funding. However, the future does not look very
promising. I’m sorry to say that after 40 years, it
looks as if the Glenkens Playgroup will soon shut.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank
everyone who showed their support for Glenkens
Playgroup. Your support has been overwhelming.
Christina Green, Chairperson, Glenkens Playgroup
If you have any ideas for alternative funding to keep the Glenkens Playgroup open, please
get in touch Christina on 07787 182 597 or kk.rgreen@btinternet.com.
Glenkens Gazette
page 5
sponsored by
Each issue, a member of the community or an expert in the field of green energy
will submit an article or question for our Eco Feature. This issue we have a
question which is answered by local expert Ted Leeming.
Q: Most people who
have solar panels rely on the
domestic electricity supply to
drive the pump. Therefore,
if there is a power cut, the
potential energy from the
panels cannot be used.
I suspect similar problems apply
to domestic wind turbines. Can
a standby battery be wired up
for use in such instances, and if
so, what sort of battery, how is
it installed, etc?
I also heard something about
installing an adapter into which
you can plug a standby diesel
generator - what is involved in
this process? In short, how does
one protect alternative energy
supplies that rely on mains
power from mains failure?
A: A good question
indeed, and great to have
some feedback.
Using my own personal
situation of a wind turbine as
an example, we are looking
to install a generator as a
backup when there is a power
outage for our water supply
which comes direct from a
borehole (we do not have a
large storage tank) and because
we have an electric cooker (run
off the wind turbine).
We did look into going off grid
and having a battery/diesel
setup but if already on the grid
this is a very expensive option
if only installed for the relatively
rare occasions of power
outage, and requires a level of
maintenance that we were not
prepared to commit to.
We looked at this option for our
15kW wind turbine however,
and it might be cheaper if
Big Thank You On Saturday 22 October
Abbas Rest Orphans
a very successful coffee morning was held in Dalry
in aid of Abbas Rest Orphans in Malawi.
We would like to thank everyone who donated towards the raffle,
cakes and sales tables and the many generous donations of money
which helped to raise an amazing total of £801.50.
Our thanks go out to Jim
Walsham, treasurer of Abbas
Rest Orphans, who came
from Ayr to show films of
the children, and to all the
many helpers who manned
the stalls, provided transport,
and helped in the kitchen.
Without you, all this would
not have been possible.
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
looking at this for a smaller
array of PV. We decided that
the grid (the best battery in
the world!) was preferable to
dealing with lots of lead acid
and maintenance (we are away
a fair amount with work) and
we would take the hit when
there was a power failure.
P.S. I should note that in
two years we have had one
power failure that lasted about
eight hours (plus several
lasting not more than a few
seconds/minutes) and it simply
would not be cost efficient to
install a back up for such rare
circumstances.
Keep the questions (and
articles or suggestions for
articles) coming folks that is the idea behind this
feature; to raise awareness
and discuss issues.
Clarification
from our last Eco
Feature: What is
Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is the
delivery of computing as
a service rather than a
product, whereby shared
resources, software, and
information are provided
to computers and other
devices as a utility (like
the electricity grid) over
a network (typically the
internet).
GLENKENS
MEDICAL PRACTICE
Ballards Butchers
General Medical &
Dispensing Services
Quality Local Meats
The Surgery
High Street
New Galloway
FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL
01644 420234
Castle Douglas
Don’t forget our Festive
Hamper, and we have Christmas
birds available too.
Wide selection of game available.
Free delivery available on Fridays - can
also deliver to Newton’s shop in Dalry.
01556 502 501
Glenkens Gazette
page 6
CatStrand Highlights
Uncharted Waters in Dalry Town Hall
As the Catstrand’s first
off-site event since it
opened in 2007, these
uncharted waters
proved to be very
successful.
The performance of Uncharted
Waters by Strangebird Zirkus
on Friday 4 November at Dalry
Town Hall was a sell-out, with
audience members enjoying the
thrill of this unusual spectacle.
Combining circus and dance
theatre in an aerial dance theatre
show, Uncharted Waters wowed
spectators from start to finish.
Glenkens Community and Arts
Trust General Manager, Sean
Paul O’Hare, said: “It was a
stunning show! Really unusual
and the venue
suited this
performance so
well. We were
delighted to be
using the Dalry
Town Hall for
the first time and
I would like to
thank the town
hall committee
for their support
and assistance
in putting the
show together.
The audience
were in awe of
the athleticism, inspiring music
and sheer brilliance of the
performers. Those who attended
will remember this performance
for a very long time.”
For information on
upcoming CatStrand
events and to book tickets
call 01644 420 374 or visit
www.catstrand.com.
A Grand Birthday in Dalry
Thursday 29 September saw a great gathering in
Dalry Town Hall, the likes of which has not been
seen for many years.
Friends, family and neighbours of Mrs Wood came in their droves
to help her celebrate her 100th birthday. Known as Auntie Bella to
many, she is a strong independant lady who is well respected in the
locality. Still living independently in Dalry, she enjoys baking and is a
keen gardener.
Over 200 people turned up, with some travelling from as far away as
Australia and New Zealand; the Town Hall ran out of standing room!
The party was generously paid for by three local benefactors.
The Deputy Lord Lieutenant presented the card from the Queen, Councillor Prentice presented her with
flowers on behalf of the council and her daughter Mary spoke about many of the events of her long
life. Then ‘Auntie Bella’ rose to thank all those who had come, with such a strong and clear voice that
no-one was left in any doubt that she intends to celebrate a good few more birthdays.
Paul Goodwin
The Clog & Shoe
Workshop
unique handmade footwear
open 10am - 5pm weekdays
Easter Mon to 31st October
please ring to arrange a visit at
other times
Tel: 01644 420 465
visit our new online shop at
www.clogandshoe.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 7
Who would have thought
12 months ago that
Glenkens Transport
Initiative (GTI) would
now be where it is now...
We have two buses, a qualified
Midas trainer, are operating a
school run both morning and
afternoon, and are also one of
only two Transport Initiatives
in SW Scotland to be on the
approved Council list able to
tender for work during the next
four years!
The year started with a generous
donation for a new VW mini bus
which is being very well used
and appreciated. With the aid
of further funding, Jon Nimmo
recently attended a course in
Edinburgh qualifying him to
train volunteer drivers to Midas
Standard – he is the only such
qualified person in the area and
will be a huge asset to not only
GTI but to other groups in the
Stewartry requiring training.
The ability to
tender for work
with the Council
during the next four
years is also very
important. There
is no obligation on
submitting tenders,
but without being on
that all important list we could
not do school runs or help with
the play scheme run by the
Council for disabled children.
Trips have continued to be
popular with visits to Cumbrae
Island and Callender House
being new to the itinerary and
suggestions have already been
received for the 2012 program
– keep them coming.
New volunteer drivers are being
trained – there is always a need
for more – and a number of
new user groups have recently
registered with GTI; one of the
more unusual names for a group
being ‘Mid-Life Crisis’!
The photograph taken in Penrith
ALEX
FERGUSSON
MSP
FOR
GALLOWAY &
WEST DUMFRIES
Holds regular advice surgeries at:
Constituency Office, New Market
Street, Castle Douglas, DG7 1HY
GTI Administrator Keith Cooper
A BUSY BUS YEAR
on a recent trip shows the
new mini bus parked near a
commercial operator – perhaps a
step too far for me...(see photo).
Many people are involved with
the success of GTI and I would
thank them all and in particular
the people of the Glenkens for
supporting the bus and making
it very much part of the area
– Happy New Year to you all.
Best Wishes, Keith Cooper,
GTI Administrator
STOP PRESS: Wed 28
Dec – Trip to Braehead
Shopping Centre including
Ikea – departs New Galloway
9.30am and Dalry 9.45am.
Fare £6, concessions £5 – to
book now call 420 374.
�����������������������������������������������������
• Pensions • Savings • Investments
• Retirement Options
• Inheritance Tax Planning
• Life Assurance
• Income & Critical Illness
Protection
• Mortgages • Home Insurance
on the 2nd Friday of every month from 5pm
Free Confidential
Initial Consultation
Telephone free on 0800 028 7260
for an appointment or to make
any alternative arrangement.
Tel: 01671 403080 Fax:- 01671 402549
Email: brian.edgar@marrfinancial.co.uk
Web: www.marrfinancial.co.uk
You can visit Alex’s website at:
www.alexfergusson.org.uk
or contact him by e-mail at:
alex.fergusson.msp@scottish.parliament.uk
61 Victoria Street
NEWTON STEWART
DG8 6NL
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on
your mortgage.
For mortgages we can be paid by commission or a fee of usually £300 or a combination of
both. For Home Insurance we usually offer products from a limited panel of providers.
Glenkens Gazette
page 8
Milestone Memories Alverie Weighill of the
Milestone Society and the Dumfries & Galloway Natural History and
Antiquarian Society is surveying and researching all the milestones
in the region. She is particularly interested in the ones leading
to old railway stations (as at Mossdale, Parton and Gatehouse of
Fleet) and wondered if any Glenkens residents have information
they’d be willing to share with her. “Any snippet, however small,
would be most welcome,” says Alverie. Contact either 01387
850371 or valerieweighill@yahoo.co.uk.
GLENKENS SNAPS
The Stewartry Camera Club’s
first competition of the season
was ‘The Built Environment’
and was judged by Pauline
Saul and Vivienne Dania from
Kirkcudbright. The club now
boasts five members from the
Glenkens and these members
were very successful in this
competition.
In Group 1, Mary McIlvenna
came 2nd with ‘Framed’ and
also won Best Landscape with
‘Snake and Snail Mounds’. John
Houfe was 5th with ‘Ironbridge’
and won the ‘Best Monochrome’
with ‘Black & White’. In Group 2,
John Repath was 5th with ‘The
Summer 2011 House’ and won
Fantastic
Fireworks
Balmaclellan bonfire night
was a massive success
with over 400 people
attending.
The amazing fireworks
display, bonfire, hot dogs,
mulled wine and more
were very much enjoyed
as well as the ceilidh
afterwards which was also
well-attended.
OPINION:
Best Monochrome with ‘Through
the Bus Shelter’. In Group 3,
Rhona Houfe was 4th with
‘Linlithgow Palace’ and won Best
Landscape with ‘Castle Stalker’.
Get in touch if you would like
to join - our programme can be
found at www.stewartrycamera
club.wordpress.com, or contact
Mary McIlvenna 420 613.
‘Photo: ‘Through the Bus Shelter’ by John Repath
Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP
Solicitors and Estate Agents
Selling properties across
Dumfries & Galloway
01556 503744
www.ggblaw.co.uk
All legal advice
Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie
Kirkcudbright and Dumfries
The decision by The Scottish
Parliament to grant permission
for the wind turbines at
Blackcraig Hill is truly a case of
the pen being mightier than the
sword. For, with one stroke they
have instigated the desecration
of a beautiful part of the
Scottish landscape, destroying
the habitat of countless flora
and fauna and heartlessly
altering the lives of the people
who live in close proximity to
these ineffective and inefficient
monstrosities.
Yours despondently,
Nick Edwards, Torwatletie
Cottage, Balmaclellan...(in the
shadow of the beast!)
Glenkens Gazette
Youth Cafe Revs Up CAITLIN’S
The Glenkens Youth
Project for a Bus Cafe
is well underway, and
the group will soon be
looking to purchase
a double decker bus
to convert into an
affordable youth cafe.
We hope to be up and running
in the new year- we’ve got loads
of great plans to utilise the bus:
Friday nights in Dalry for the
young folk of the Glenkens,
Tuesdays after mother and
toddlers in New Galloway to offer
a quirky experience for tots and
help extend their session, and
on Wednesday afternoons pupils
from Dalry High School will be
looking to run an affordable
community cafe. It is a really
exciting project and offers so
many possibilities.
If anyone is looking for some
thing new to do in the new
year, a chance to meet new
people and an opportunity to
put something back in to the
community please get in touch
- we’ve a range of jobs that we
will need help with from helping
to refit the bus, to sewing new
seat covers, driving the bus
(anyone with experience of
driving heavy vehicles), running
the kitchen occasionally or cake
baking. Any amount of time that
anyone can give to us will be
extremely appreciated! Contact
the Glenkens Youth Project on
420 327.
We would like to thank the
Galloway Association of Glasgow,
the Holywood Trust and Awards
for All for their support in getting
this project started.
Catherine Phillips
W
o
n
d
e
r
f
u
l
W
a
l
k
s
Dogs and owners
enjoyed the series of
fundraising walks in the
beautiful Glenkens despite the wet weather!
Gerry Cinderby started us off in
New Galloway. There were few
of us as the rain was coming
down in stair rods. Fortunately,
Gerry was able to use his local
knowledge to alter his planned
walk; we had a lovely time
walking through the forest and
discovering a hidden lochan in
the countryside behind New
Galloway.
Our next walk had the best
of the miserable weather and
more than a dozen people set
off with Janette Dickson from
The Thistle Inn in Crossmichael.
They raised a stunning total of
£336 for Dumfries & Galloway
Canine Rescue Centre.
Then came the Day of the
Region on Saturday 2 October
- it was almost dry! The pet
blessing service alongside Dalry
Church was conducted by the
Rev. David Bartholomew. Vorna
Gilkes had planned a lovely walk
for us round Dundeugh Island
but the heavy overnight rain
meant the bridge to the island
was impassable, so a lovely
Polmaddy walk was had instead.
Donations and sponsor money
from all the Glenkens activities
contributed a wonderful net
amount of £539 to the Rescue
Centre to help them continue to
rescue and rehome unwanted,
abandoned and mistreated
dogs. Thank you to everyone
who participated.
Here is a poignant portion of
Rev. Bartholomews prayer
about pets;
“...rejoice in the moments
of our days – the early
morning dew on the grass;
the cheerful, chattering
and gurgling tumbling of a
burn; the reflection of light
on the water; the scent of
new mown hay; the skylark
rising in song. Set us free
from our preoccupation with
events of our past lives, or
fears and anxieties about the
future, to savour more of the
present. May we learn from
the alert senses of our pets
how better to celebrate each
moment... “
page 9
COLUMN
Well what can
I say? It’s been
a life-changing past few
months.
One minute I’m in the depths
of the countryside in my
parents’ cosy little cottage
sipping on a nice cup of
tea and the next i’m flung
headfirst into one of the
busiest and most hectic cities
in Britain...
Not an easy move, I must
admit, but I welcomed it
with open arms. It takes
some getting used to but
I’m actually loving it here
in Manchester. Everything I
ever need or want is right on
my doorstep and the public
transport is amazing! We
have trams, trains, buses,
taxis...you name it! Everyone
is so nice as well, I couldn’t
have asked for nicer people
to live and study with. I get
a lot of friendly jokes about
my Scottish accent which
is amusing - I feel ‘one of a
kind’! I feel like I’ve really
settled in.
I suppose, in a way, I do miss
Galloway. Life is a lot more
easy-going in the country,
there isn’t the constant sound
of traffic and sirens or the
sound of drunk students
outside my window at 3am.
If I wanted to concentrate on
a good book or some school
work I could just go outside
and sit in my garden (if it
was a nice day of course). In
Manchester, though, I have
to lock myself away inside
my room if I want any kind of
concentration for my uni work.
Sometimes you need a break
from the fast pace of city life,
and it’s a comfort to know that
there always will be a place
for me back home. But hey,
I’m young, I want to have fun
and what better way to do
so than living in a place like
Manchester. It seems I have
the best of both worlds...
Glenkens Gazette
page 10
On the Farm H a r v e s t F e s t i v a l
On one of the few dry,
sunny days of late,
the Standard Grade
Geography class set off
to visit two contrasting
farms in the local area.
The first venue was the Crichton
Farm at Dumfries where pupils
could see the workings of a
modern dairy farm.
The next venue for the day
was to Fellend and Barstobrick
farms. These are beef and
sheep units well suited to the
conditions found in this area.
Finally, pupils were
shown around a variety of
diversification enterprises and
enjoyed a trip to the restaurant
at Barstobrick to round off the
day. The pupils agreed the trip
had been both enjoyable and
informative.
Dalry Primary School held their Harvest Festival in
school on Monday 3 October.
Each class performed a musical item and P3 read an acrostic poem
that they had written. The Harvest table was laden with produce
which had been given generously and was also from the school
garden. P1/2/3 had made the bread for the harvest table too.
After the assembly the children delivered the produce to residents
in the village.
Shop for Dalry School
Friends of Dalry School is
pleased to announce their
new online shopping estore.
Anyone can shop and find lots
of great offers from 1000s of
your favourite retailers such
as Marks and Spencer, John
Lewis, Sainsburys, Debenhams,
Hamleys and Sky. Every time
you spend, you’re donating
money to Dalry School in the
form of a cashback from the
retailers as you shop online.
To date, we’ve raised £1,000
for the school, and are aiming
to raise a further £500 by 2013.
Together we can make a big
difference to Dalry School this
Christmas and into the year
ahead. Please join us when
it comes to your Christmas
shopping.
To shop and raise funds
for Dalry School visit:
www.spendandraise.com/
dalryscool
cast were
A Pie in the Face for Youth Players The
honoured to
receive a visit
Pantomime returns to the by Alistair Ferguson &
Alan Richardson.
Glenkens this year after
a break of several years, The tale adds a Scottish
to the traditional story
with the CatStrand Youth twist
of Cinderella but all of the
Players production of
favourite ingredients and
‘The Legend of Cinderella’ characters are still there
Panto Workshop
including Buttons, who acts as
the narrator of the story, the
dashing and brave Prince, the
skinflint Baron (or the Laird in
this case) and of course the
famous Ugly Sisters.
Most of the parts are played by
the youth members but a few
of the veteran Glenkens panto
stars from the past are also
making an appearance!
T: 01644 460 670
Dog Training & Dog
Training Courses
Make your Xmas order now turkeys, etc - will deliver 23rd Dec
The Fleet Fish van is in the Glenkens
on Tuesdays & Wednesdays every
week. Anyone wishing me to call,
please phone Mary on above mobile no.
�� Dalry Town Hall
D Eric Broadhurst (NDOA Advanced Instructor)
D One of the countries leading dog trainers
D ���������������������������������
For more information visit our web site
www.realdogtrainingscotland.co.uk
from one of the authors,
Alistair Ferguson, on Sunday 13
November when he came down
from Edinburgh to run a Panto
Workshop in the afternoon.
Everyone thoroughly enjoyed
the experience and learned all
about the history of Pantomime,
the origin of the different
characters and also took part
in practical exercises in acting
styles and even learned how
to throw a custard pie for
maximum effect!
Rehearsals have been held
twice a week since September
and everyone is looking forward
to ‘curtain up’ on Thursday 1
and Friday 2 December – “Oh
yes we are!”.
Glenkens Gazette
page 11
Energy Efficiency at Kells
Kells Primary School have been learning the
message about saving energy - the fun way!
Primary 6/7 pupils have benefited from ‘energy lessons’ as part of
their Eco-School project given by Alan Nicolson from the Energy
Agency. As part of the project, they have taken part in ‘Save It’ - a
large floor game which challenges the pupils on who is the best at
saving energy.
Anne Shearlaw, Education Co-ordinator of the Energy Agency said:
”These pupils are the home owners of the future. The lessons are
a great way of introducing the importance of energy efficiency and
the effect it has in reducing fuel bills and saving energy”.
Forrest Estate Experiences, a
new venture at Forrest Estate,
Dalry, held its first charity clay
pigeon shoot amongst stunning
scenery near Dalry on Sunday
6 November with nearly 100
entries taking advantage of the
glorious weather.
The 50 Bird Sporting
Competition was keenly fought
for with the overall winner
being Gordon Boertien from
Lockerbie. The ladies winner
was Kate Little from Ringford
and the Junior Angus Milby from
Kirkcudbright.
The day was a huge success
with £714.49 being raised in aid
of the charity Help for Heroes.
Shoot manager Andrew Case
said “We are delighted with
the turnout to our first annual
charity shoot and I would like to
thank all those who supported
the event especially the main
sponsors TransK9.com and
Brandecosse.com as well as all
the local businesses who kindly
provided many superb prizes
in aid of this very worthwhile
cause”.
Forrest Estate Experiences is a
new sporting venture at Forrest
Estate, outside Dalry. Sports
Winner Gordon Boertien (left) with shoot
manager Andrew Case.
Forrest Fundraiser
include various country pursuits
from clay pigeon shooting to red
and roe deer stalking to trout
fishing. For more info visit
www.forrestestateexperiences.com.
T. H. CARSON
BUTCHERS
See us at Dalry Farmers Market on the 2nd
Saturday of each month
Free delivery every Thursday
- give us a call, no order too small!
Fresh turkeys • copas free range turkeys • geese, ducks, etc
Now taking orders for Christmas - and don’t forget
to order your New Year roasts & steak pies...
Christmas Hamper
3 1⁄2 lb fresh chicken
3 lb rolled silverside
small ham joint
1 lb home-made award winning steak pie
3⁄4 lb award winning chipolata sausages
1⁄4 lb sage & onion stuffing
3⁄4 lb streaky bacon
Only £29.99!
THE CROSS, MILL ST, DALBEATTIE
01556 610384
Glenkens Gazette
page 12
a
Safer Winter Roads recommend
minimum tread
Winter is well and truly on
its way; the clocks have
changed and many of us
find ourselves travelling to
and from work in the dark.
Perhaps now is a good time
to take a moment to stop and
think how we could make our
journeys on winter rural roads
as safe as possible.
Keep your vehicle well serviced
and check tyre pressures and
tread depth weekly (RoSPA
depth of 3mm)
the legal minimum is 1.6mm.
Ensure all your lights are
all working and clean; it is
surprising how much light a film
of road grime or salt blocks.
Simply wiping them with a
damp cloth can really help you
see and be seen.
Make sure your windscreen is
clean inside and out, your wiper
blades are in good condition and
that you have plenty of washer
fluid mixed appropriately to
prevent it from freezing.
Drive at a speed appropriate
to the road and conditions.
Consider the width of the road
and how wide a lorry coming
the other way may be. Several
crashes have happened recently
when vehicles, especially
lorries, have pulled over to
allow others to pass and sank
into the verges.
If you need any help or advice
on staying safe on the road this
winter contact your local Police
office on 08456005701 or email
bryan.bruton@dg.pnn.police.uk
Bryan Bruton,
Community Police Officer
Glenkens Joint Action
Representatives from Balmaclellan,
Carsphairn, Dalry and New Galloway
Community Councils have decided
to work together to develop a joint
approach to dealing with the many
offers of community benefit payments
now being made by aspiring wind power
developers in the Glenkens.
A meeting was held in New Galloway on
Monday 10 October. All present agreed that
this new initiative would not take any position
on the desirability or otherwise of particular
developments. Organisations and individuals
must remain free to support or oppose any
proposals as they see fit. However, the saga
of the prominent project at Blackcraig - which
lies within the area of Balmaclellan Community
Council but which will have an impact on the
scenery over much of the Glenkens - shows
that national government is determined to force
these developments through even when there is
widespread local opposition.
Although this was the first time that elected
representatives from the four parishes had
met to discuss this matter it was agreed that it
was important to work together to push things
forward.
Andrew Mellor
Glenkens Gazette
page 13
LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN
John Gordon Barbour
of Bogue
Hogmanay is the
traditional occasion to
think upon times past and
folk that are no more,
while contemplating the
promise of a new year.
For those sensitive to the ‘genius of
place’ the scenery and environment of
our everyday surroundings preserve
memories of the lives and activities of our
predecessors and ancestors. One native
of Glenkens who was extremely aware
of such places in the landscape was John
Gordon Barbour of Bogue, just east of St
John’s Town of Dalry.
Born in 1775, Barbour was a notable
radical in politics and religion whose
unconventional views have condemned
him as nothing more than an eccentric
in the view of some commentators, as
just another Glenkens daftie. In fact he
was a fiercely independent-minded and
patriotic Scot inspired by the twin fonts
of Robert Bruce’s exploits (especially in
Galloway) and the Covenanters of whom
he wrote that ‘if there be a God who has
distinguished betwixt probity and perjury,
betwixt sinning and suffering, betwixt
patriotism and impurity, still must the
memories of our forefathers be embalmed
in the recollections of every right-minded
Scot!’
Barbour was a collector of folklore,
notably that of Galloway, but he travelled
extensively throughout Scotland and
he communicated with many members
of the Scottish literary establishment.
He deplored Scott’s treatment of the
Covenanters and the smugness of
contributors to Blackwood’s Magazine
whom he termed ‘Blackadders’.
James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd
and John Wilson visited him at Bogue.
Indeed, Hogg’s Brownie of Bodesbeck
and Barbour’s ‘The Brownies’ Well’
share the same motif. Barbour’s story
concerns Ramsay, tenant of Bogue, who
is imprisoned for his religious sympathies.
His covenanting supporters are mistaken
for brownies when they secretly and
silently, and generally under cover of
darkness, carry out all the necessary tasks
on his farm. The difference is that Barbour
purports to relate historical fact while
Hogg produced a novel.
Barbour basically preserves a vanished
world for posterity. In his Lights and
Shadows of Scottish Character and
Scenery (1824) numerous sites in his own
backyard conjure memories of a departed
world and its people. He explains placenames in his own neighbourhood which
are no longer on the Landranger Ordnance
Survey map but which were preserved
on the first O.S. production, the 1854, six
inches to the mile, sheets.
At the close of ‘Brownie’s Well’, for
example, he wrote that he would never
forget the perils and sufferings of his
forefathers. Writing in the third person
he is insistent that ‘while he can wander
through the woods, or saunter by the
sacred stream, he will not easily forego
such reminiscences. To him shall Holy
Linn and Holy Croft have renewed charms.
Often he shall walk by Society Holm and
Cushat Craggs; nor will he cease to bless
the Brownie’s Croft and Brownie’s Well’.
Of these names only Holy Linn on the
Garple Burn now survives on maps; the
others have disappeared. Barbour may now
be the sole source of the tradition that the
Rev. Verner, or Warner, outed minister of
Balmaclellan, who lived on a farm on the
shore of Lochinvar, carried out baptisms
at Holy Linn and at Holy Croft just to the
north, whence they had to flee to escape
Claverhouse’s persecuting dragoons. There
are now marked trails to the Linn.
About a mile west of Holy Linn was Jean’s
Wa’s, named for Jean Gordon of Shirmers,
who, jilted by her faithless lover, retreated
to the woods by the Garple where she built
a cottage and spent the rest of her life
communing with nature. Barbour spells
the name Skirmars which may indicate
how it was pronounced locally; the 1854
map has Shirmers, as at present. Barbour
consistently uses Garpel for the burn. A
rock shelf just above the water provided
refuge for a Covenanter named Duncan
who was chased by dragoons. The place
was still Duncan’s Pantry in Barbour’s day.
Society Holm must have been named for
meetings of the ‘Societies’, those who
believed in
the central
importance
of the Covenant but who differed in some
points of detail. Court Knowe, which is
still on the map, said to be the site of a
baron court of the Kenmures, prompts
an account of witchcraft. Old names now
gone, such as My Lord’s Cleuch and Deer
Den allegedly originated when a prize
roe stag head-butted a Kenmure over the
bank and into the Garple, giving rise to the
proverbial expression, ‘a great lord’s as easy
cowpit as a wee man’.
Two names that survive on the modern
map are Kate’s Hill and Kate’s Wood,
named for Katherine Ramsay of Bogue
whose marriage to Thomas Barbour was
delayed due to the religious war, during
which Kate provided what relief she
could to the persecuted, who continued to
worship at Society Holm.
John Gordon Barbour
believed that the
‘embryo’ of the Glorious
Revolution of 1688 was
the Glenkens Rising,
which was launched at
Dalry in 1666.
After the revolution the young couple were
duly joined in matrimony. Fiddler Bog
where they danced, and Supper Thorn,
where they dined, have both now vanished,
as have several ‘chapel’ names north of
Trolane, or Torlane as it used to be, along
with ‘Tower’ and a motte site northwest of
the same farm.
It is perhaps tempting to think that
Barbour simply made up the stories for
theses place-names but he had too much
respect for the past and the ancestors to
pull that stunt. It may also be suspected
that Barbour was the informant on
nomenclature for the Ordnance Survey
team but the team did not arrive until
1849, by which time he had been dead for
six years. He was not intent upon turning
landscape into storyscape. Rather he hoped
to preserve some local knowledge of the
past for posterity and for that we should
be grateful. He is a fascinating character to
whom this column will undoubtedly return
at some time in the future.
Ted Cowan
Glenkens Gazette
page 14
GLENKENS DIARY...
NOVEMBER
Tue 29, Bus Trip to Ayr Shopping, National Hunt Racing or
just a walk by the sea, see p7
Wed 30, 2–4pm. Crichton College
Exploring Galloway Through History
& Literature Lecture, £8, CatStrand
DECEMBER
Thurs 1, 7.30pm, CatStrand Panto,
£5/3, CatStrand
Fri 2, 7.30pm, CatStrand Panto,
£5/3, CatStrand
Sat 3 Dec – Thurs 26 Jan,
Exhibition: Sarah Keast, CatStrand
Mon 5, 5-7pm, Internet Workshop,
£10, CatStrand
Wed 7, Money and Benefit Advice,
free, CatStrand
Wed 7, 2-4pm, Crichton College
Exploring Galloway Through History
& Literature Lecture, £8, CatStrand
Fri 9, 7.30pm, Finding Albert, £8/7,
CatStrand
Sat 10, Bus Trip to Historic Carlisle
or Shopping, see p7
Thurs 15, Open Stage, 7.30pm,
£3/2, CatStrand
Sat 17, Feral Choir: Forgotten
Carols, 7.30pm, £10/8, CatStrand
Sat 17, Craft Fair, 10am-4pm, free,
Dalry Town Hall
Thurs 29, Wizard’s Workshop, 2pm,
£7, CatStrand
Wed 28, Bus Trip to Braehead
Shopping Centre incl. Ikea, see p7
Thurs 29, Film: The Wizard of Oz,
3.30pm, £5/4/3, CatStrand
Sat 31, New Year Meal & Music, Ken
Bridge Hotel, see p2
JANUARY
Wed 18, GCAT AGM, 6pm,
CatStrand
Thurs 19, Film: One Day, 7.30pm,
£5/4, CatStrand
Thurs 19, Carsphairn Burns Supper,
7.30pm, see p2
Sat 21, Winter Pruning for Fruit
Trees, 11am - 1pm, £5, CatStrand
Thurs 26, Napoleon: A Defence,
7.30pm, £10/8/6, CatStrand
Mon 30 Jan to Fri 10 Feb, Dalry
School Exhibition, CatStrand
opening hours, CatStrand
FEBRUARY
Sun 5, Janice Galloway, 4pm, £7/5
Wed 7, National Osteoporosis
Society, 1-3m, free, CatStrand
Dear Gazette,
On Friday 18 November, after taking my wife to Newton Stewart to
have her hair done and to do a little shopping, we started to make
our return home.
At about 1pm we broke down near the Glen of the Bar, and, with no mobile phone coverage, I started to panic and
get a bit frightened in my old age. To our relief, a passing car stopped to offer help. The two ladies in the car tried
to use their mobile phones, with no luck, but as they lived in New Galloway they called our breakdown service
from their home phone.
We would like to thank these ladies for their kindness, consideration and help as we do not know what we would
have done without it. In this day and age it is a rare thing that people stop to help others in trouble and these two
ladies are to be commended for their actions. Should any local resident know who these ladies are please email me
their name and address so we can thank them personally as they are truly Knights of the Road.
Len Swallow, Ford House on the Garroch Estate, len.swallow@sky.com
CHURCH OF
SCOTLAND
Sundays:
Balmaclellan: 12noon
1st(Dec), Carsphairn:
10.30am 1st 2nd 3rd
4th(Jan), Dalry: 12noon 1st
2nd 3rd 4th 5th (Jan), Kells:
10.30am 2nd,3rd 4th (Jan)
Special Services/
Events: 11 Dec,
6.30pm: Carols by
Candlelight in Carsphairn
Church, with Glenkens
Church Choir
22 Dec, 5pm: Carsphairn
Church Community
Christmas Service and
Children’s Party
24 Dec, 11.30pm:
Watchnight Service, Dalry
Church
25 Dec, 10.30am:
Christmas Day Family
Service, Carsphairn
Church
1 Jan, 10.30am:
United Service with
Choir, Balmaclellan Church
29 Jan, 10.30am: United
Service with Choir,
Carsphairn Church
Communion
Service: 23 Oct, 12
noon, Dalry Church
6 Nov, 12 noon,
Balmaclellan Church
20 Nov, 10.15 am,
Carsphairn Church
SCOTTISH
EPISCOPAL
CHURCH (C of
E): St Margaret’s,
New Galloway: Holy
Communion - 10.30am
every Sun & Wed
CATHOLIC
CHURCH
SERVICES: Gatehouse
of Fleet: Sat, 6pm.
Kirkcudbright: Sun, 9.30am.
Dalbeattie: Sun, 11am
ADVERTISE IN
THE GAZETTE
(per issue)
6cm x 6cm - £31.50 (10% series discount)
1/4 page (9cm w x 13cm h) - £68.25
(25% series discount)
1/2 page (18cm w x 13cm h) - £126
(25% series discount)
Full Page (18cm w x 27cm h) - £210
(25% series discount)
Call 07727 127 997 TO BOOK
YOUR AD TODAY
USEFUL NUMBERS:
● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000
● Local Police: 0845 600 5701
● Doctor: 01644 420 234
● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24
● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000
Dalry Library
Tue: 2 - 4.30pm
then 5.30 - 7.30pm
Fri: 11:15am - 1:15pm
then 2 - 4.30pm
23 mobile library stops
- to find out where and
when call 430 234
Glenkens Gazette
page 15
OCTOBER & NOVEMBER
REGULAR EVENTS:
The CatStrand, New
Galloway (01644 420 374):
Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am
Play it by Ear: Thurs during term
time, 10-11am
Children’s Dance Class: Mon during
term time, 3.45-4pm, age 3-7
Carers Coffee & Chat: Tues, 10am12noon
Teen Spirit: Tues during term time,
7.30-9.30pm
Taking the First Step in
Computing: Wed, 5.30-7.30pm
Boxercise: Wed, 7-8pm, £4, New
Galloway Town Hall
Zumba: Wed: 8-9pm, New Galloway
Town Hall, £4
Gentle Yoga & Relaxation: Thurs,
10-11.15am
9.15-11.45am (contact - Julie 01644
460 687)
Mossdale Painters: Wed, 9.30am,
Mossdale Village Hall
Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm &
Wed, 7-9pm
Cub Scouts: Wed, 6.45–8pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Ballroom & Latin Dance drop-in:
Mon, 7.30-9pm, £5
Thursday Lunch Club: 12.30pm,
New Galloway Town Hall, fortnightly
starting 6 Jan, £3, contact - Raymond
Vincent, 01644 420451.
Ballroom & Latin Dance course:
Mon, 9-10pm, for more info tel Sam
Hood on 01644 420672
Good Neighbours Club: Tues, 2pm
Kickback Martial Arts: Tues &
Thurs, 7-9pm, both adults & children
welcome
Glenkens Mother & Toddlers:
Wed, 1.30-3pm
Thursday Craft Group: starts again
Thurs 20 Oct, 2-4pm
Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm
Guides: Tue during term-time,
6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281
Sing it Out: Thurs, 11.30am12.30pm
Various Locations:
Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri each
month, 2pm
Scouts: Mon, 7–8.30pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Family Film Club: 1st Sat each
month, 11am, £20/£10 membership
Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.4511.15am, New Galloway Town Hall
Saturday Art Club: 2nd Sat each
month, 10am–12noon
Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New
Galloway Scout Hut
Catstrand Youth Players: Sun
during term time, 2pm
Dog Training: Tue, 7pm, Dalry
Town Hall. Not on 27 Dec or 17 Jan.
Contact 460 670
Stewartry Camera Club: Wed,
7.30pm, The Tolbooth, Kirkcudbright
Glenkens Community
Centre (Dalry):
Glenkens Playgroup: Mon-Fri,
Visit the CatStrand for festive events,
handmade local gifts and delicious
Christmas baking.
Advice Surgeries with Alex
Fergusson MSP, 2nd Friday of the
month from 5pm, contact: 0800 028
7260
Lions Club monthly quiz:
alternating between The CatStrand
& Lochinvar Hotel, contact - Andrew
Frew, 01644 420 323
Glenkens Hair Studio
Duke Street, New Galloway
Eileen thanks all her customers
for their support throughout
the year and wishes everyone
a Merry Christmas and a
Happy New Year.
Christmas & New Year
Opening Hours:
Thurs 15 Dec: 9am – 6pm,
Gent’s Barber Shop 4.30-6pm
Fri 16 Dec: 9am–5pm
Sat 17 Dec: 9am–1pm
Thurs 22 Dec: 9am–6pm,
Gent’s Barber Shop 4.30-6pm
Fri 23 Dec: 9am–5pm
Sat 24 Dec: 9am–3pm
Fri 30 Dec: 9am–5pm
Sat 31 Dec: 9am–3pm
Open as normal from Thurs 5 Jan
Please book early
for Christmas
appointments:
01644 420 616
Glenkens Gazette
page 16
A Blooming Success for Carsphairn
Alex Fergusson MSP in his
Opening remarks on Saturday
September 24 congratulated
Carsphairn Community
Council for its perseverance in
transforming a derelict piece of
ground into a beautiful outdoor
amenity for the residents and
visitors alike.
He also praised the work of
the large group of volunteers
who have been involved in the
project since its inception, and
made a special presentation
to David Richmond who has
project managed the Garden’s
development.
Over 130 Carsphairn residents
and their guests enjoyed piping
by Andy McCartney from the
Kirkcudbright and District
Pipe Band and a magical song
performance by the Children of
Carsphairn School conducted
by Principal Teacher Walker
McKenna. This was followed by
refreshments, then a chance to
socialise and admire the Garden
in the extremely welcome late
summer sunshine.
Matt Hickman, Community
Council Chair, explained:
“Over the years funds have
been raised, initially in 2002 to
purchase the site with the aid
of a donation from the John
Scott Trust. The project then
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: Fri 6 January
was driven forward with grants
from Dumfries & Galloway
LEADER Programme, Stewartry
Area Committee, Carsphairn
Windfarm Community Benefit
Fund and a number of other
funders. We are also very
grateful for gifts and donations
from local businesses. All
donors are recorded on the
colourful plinth notice board at
the entrance to the Garden.”
Design & co-ordination:
Sarah Ade
sarah_ade@tiscali.co.uk
Printing:Stranraer &
Wigtownshire Free Press
www.stranraer-freepress.co.uk
The Glenkens Gaze�e is an ini�a�ve of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Sco�sh Charity No. SC032050
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<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> </span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p>
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GLENKENS GAZETTE
news from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry
February/March 2012
ISSUE 68
FREE
Wild Winter Weather
The weather over the
past few months has
been pretty dramatic,
and not in the white
Christmas kind of way.
John Redpath
There has been flooding, gales
and power cuts throughout the
Glenkens, with some people
being without power for up to
two days.
The photograph to the left
shows Scottish Power valiantly
making their way to fix
someone’s power (we hope!) on
the stretch of road between New
Galloway and the Ken Bridge,
just before the bridge. But
where is the road...?
Carsphairn Community Pub Venture
On Monday 19
December, a public
meeting was held
in Lagwyne Hall,
Carsphairn, to discuss
the potential for
Carsphairn Community
to buy Greystones, their
village pub.
The pub has come to the
village’s attention as the
previous owner died recently,
and his executor approached
the Community Council as he
knew the community may be
interested in buying the building.
Community-owned pubs are a
hot topic at the moment, with
schemes such as ‘Pub is the
Hub’ going strong, and boasting
the support of people such as
the Prince of Wales.
There was a large turnout for the
Carsphairn meeting – around 70
people – and a lot of ideas were
aired. The overall consensus
reached was that running the
building as a pub only would
not be a realistic option, and
it would have to have some
other community use as well.
So it was decided the next step
would be a professional study
looking into a variety of options
for the premises – landlord
accommodation, restaurant,
renovation costs, etc.
The Community Council has
agreed with the executor
that he will wait while
research is carried out and
that the community will
keep him closely informed as
things develop.
what would be involved.
Matt Hickman, Chairman of
Carsphairn Community Council,
says: “The community will
be working closely with the
executor of the estate and hope
to come to a decision about
purchasing the pub within the
next six months”.
Hopefully the initial study will
be carried out over the next
couple of months and there will
be a further update in the next
Gazette.
The group chosen to carry
out the research is the
Creetown Initiative, and
a meeting was held with
Andrew Ward, who runs the
project, where he explained
A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve
www.glenkensgaze�e.com
Glenkens Gazette
page 2
Win a Meal For Two! Local Ini�a�ves in New Galloway (LING)
Here at the Gazette we’re starting
a ‘Photo of the Issue’ competition,
where the best photo of the Glenkens
(or a Glenkens person, activity, etc)
each issue wins a meal for two at a
local eaterie.
Drop your photos into the CatStrand, or
email them to
glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk.
This issue, the winner will recieve
a meal for two at The Ken Bridge’s
Sunday Carvery.
THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL
New Galloway
Open 7 Days
Beautiful Riverside Location
MEALS SERVED
12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm
SUNDAY LUNCH CARVERY
bed and breakfast
en suite accommodation
01644 420 211
mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk
ww.kenbridgehotel.co.uk
A�er MSP Alex Fergusson’s successful
interven�on in persuading the D&G Council
to improve the appearance of the Town Hall,
members of the LING commi�ee met with
officers of the Council to hear the current plans.
The Town Hall is to be kept as a ‘flagship’ building; the
council will review whether any of its own services can be
accommodated within the building, followed by further
discussions with the local councillors and the local community to
determine the most appropriate use. Watch this space ...
Ros Hill, Chairman
Dalry Community Council: Next meeting: Mon
6 Feb, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall.
New Galloway & Kells Community Council:
The condition of the car park has deteriorated
with large potholes now spreading out into the
surface of the adjoining road, recent flooding
from the Mill Burn had also caused problems at
the lower end of the car park.
A general discussion took place on the Crayfish
problems in Loch Ken, and the lack of any
information on what is being done. It was agreed
that a meeting of interested parties including our
neighbouring community councils around Loch
Ken (Balmaclellan, Balmaghie, Crossmichael
and Parton), also Glenkens Business Association
and SEPA.Next meeting: Mon 12 Feb, 7.30pm, New
Galloway Town Hall.
Balmaclellan Community Council: Next
meeting: Mon 27 Feb, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall.
Carsphairn Community Council: Cllr
Prentice complained about the speed of heavy
goods vehicles in the area through the village,
and this is to be passed on to the traffic
department.
The proposed reduction in cutting the Kirk yard
grass from 15 to 3 times a year was discussed,
and it was agreed the CC would object to the
proposals and request that they be consulted
before any final decisions are made.
David Whyte confirmed his resignation as
Secretary, and there was a discussion on
whether the post should be paid or not. A notice
is to be placed in the Village Shop. Next meeting:
Mon 27 Feb, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall.
Full minutes of local Community Council meetings
can be viewed at Dalry Library.
GTI WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE
(registered route)
Outward Journey:
19:00 Dept. Dalry (Underhill)
19:10 New Galloway
19:25 Mossdale
19:35 Laurieston
19:40 Townhead of Greenlaw
19:47 Castle Douglas (Market St)
19:50 Castle Douglas (Tesco)
Return journey:
20:45 Dept. Castle Douglas (Tesco)
20:47 Castle Douglas (Market St)
20:52 Townhead of Greenlaw
21:00 Laurieston
21:10 Mossdale
21:25 New Galloway
21:35 Dalry
To book a GTI bus or for more information please contact keith cooper,
GTI Administrator, on 01644 420374.
FHB Fencing
Dalry
Domestic and
Agricultural
Fencing
01644 430 495 (Peter)
or 07767 795 498
(Jonathan)
Glenkens Gazette
page 3
The Future of Glenkens Playgroup
The future of our local Playgroup may be rosier
than it seemed a few months ago.
At a mee�ng of mums and members of the Playgroup
commi�ee on Tuesday 17 January, various op�ons for the
future of Glenkens Playgroup in 2012/13 were raised.
It was decided that a sub-commi�ee of the Playgroup
commi�ee would form to look into the poten�al for con�nuing
the Playgroup, perhaps with reduced days, and perhaps with
a lower number of paid staff, depending on the funding which
can be generated now that the Regional Council has cut the
core funding.
The feeling among mums is one of determina�on to make
something work if at all possible, and the coming year will be
key to seeing whether con�nuing to run the facility is feasible
without Council funding.
Glenkens Business
Santa’s Little Helpers Associa�on (GBA)
Santa has moved into the 21st
century... Stuart Jamieson, with the
help of local mum Izzie, started an informal
‘quad’ Santa two or three years ago.
Chris Jamieson, Stuart’s wife, says: “Stuart
just likes to give something back to the
children. He got lots of li�le gi�s and put
them into Santa’s sack, and then Jamie
Murdoch dressed as Santa, Stuart was the
elf driving the quad, and Izzie was the other
elf, and they knocked at all the houses in
New Galloway that we knew had children.
The kids seemed to really enjoy it, and next
year we might try going to some of the
other Glenkens villages.” If you would to be
involved, get in touch with Chris or Stuart
on 420 401.
Following the well
received first issue of the
Glenkens Directory guide
to local businesses and
community groups the
commi�ee is now looking
to produce Issue 2.
If you are a local business who
would like to join the Associa�on
or a community group who
would like an entry please make
sure you contact us immediately.
To join the GBA contact David
Whyte on 01644 460 296 or
email
davidwhyte@b�nternet.com
Stag Tea Room
& Garden
Carricks, Main Street, Carsphairn, DG7 3TQ
Tel: 01644 460 211
We hope you enter a stranger, leave as a
friend and return as a regular!
During the winter months enjoy a light meal in
front of our open fire with home-made pies, scones
and soups, and rolls with hot or cold fillings.
We hope soon to introduce a range of gluten &
wheat free pastries and cakes.
Our garden has a wonderful view and the tea room
is open all-year round.
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday - 7am to 6pm
Saturday – 8am to 6pm
Sunday - 9am to 5pm
Take-out menu available
- ring in your order and
we can have it ready for
collection.
Glenkens Gazette
page 4
sponsored by
EVERYTHING listed on the Glenkens Freecycle page is FREE - you just
need to contact the owner and go and pick it up!
Anyone can list an item they no longer want, and hopefully someone else in the area is looking for just that thing
and will come and collect it. You can also list items you are looking for, in the hope that someone else is getting rid
of something similar and will get in touch with you. If you would like to list something on this page, please get in
touch with Sarah on 07727 127 997 or email glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk.
Please remember that people list their items in good faith that they will go to an appreciative
home - items are not to be collected simply to sell on.
Furniture
Large Desk - grey ‘wood effect’,
about 5ft by 3ft with three drawers at
one side. Also, matching four drawer
filing cabinet, not perfect but does
the job. Contact: 460 244
Various
Clipboard - A4 - Black. Contact:
440 657
Table Tennis table. Home-made
(no net). Contact: 440 657
A4 lever arch files - blue 65mm. Contact: 440 657
A4 ring binders - blue - 25mm.
Contact: 440 657
Drawing/draught board.
Contact: 07796 268 995
Filing cabinet files – small and
large size ones. Contact: Sarah
430 138
Four Tensa Barrier Crowd Control
posts. Black with red retracting
band. In need of a little TLC.
Contact: 440 657
Lexmark all-in-one printer in working
order and with cartridges.
Contact: 460 516
Portable stage. 1m x 2m with
folding 30cm legs. Lightweight,
covered in black cord carpet.
Contact: 440 657
Unicol projector stand. 1.2mt high.
Black. Needs some TLC. Contact:
440 657
Man’s bike, three-speed hub
gears, old but everything works.
Contact: Ian on 450 618.
Draper folding step ladder.
Contact: 440 657
coupled WC both in Champagne
colour. Contact: 440 657
2 Mahogany coloured curtain
poles complete with rings ( 8ft
and 6ft). Contact: Alan on 07769
680938
Handles for wood windows plus
catches and keys, in brass: 11 left
hand and 14 right hand.
Contact: 460 516
Door. Hardwood, internal, fully
glazed with small panes. Contact:
440 657
Pair of children’s Clarks sandals in
size 2, light brown. Contact: 430 004
Reclining Armchair. Pale green velour
‘Parker-Knoll’ armchair. Contact: Jane
430 199 or 07768 481554
WANTED
Childrens’
DIY/Home Fittings
Aspidistras, around three
healthy plants available to good
homes. Ring Sue in the evenings
on 07554 644 993
Large concrete coal/log bunker. Two
compartments. Very heavy and needs
to be dismantled. Contact: Alan on
07769 680938
Pedestal hand basin and close
Any old/spare buttons, zips,
buckles, fastenings (see Guides
article on back page). Contact:
430 393
Wooden supports for 4 poster
bed. Contact: 07796 268 995
Any fabric, curtains, etc. for
recycling into bags (see Guides
article on back page). Contact:
430 393
Cellular cotton baby blanket.
Doesn’t matter if it’s a bit tatty
as just wanted for the material.
Ring Sue in the evenings on
07554 644 993
New Tricks for Old Dogs
Chairman of Dumfries and Galloway
Canine Rescue Centre, Diana Lord, is
launching an appeal to help homeless
canine golden oldies.
Diana (pictured here with her 13 year old rescue
collie, Sally) says: “The plight of old dogs that
find themselves without a home really tugs at my
heart strings – perhaps
because I am a senior
citizen myself!”
When an old dog comes
into the kennels, we
would really like to have
a foster home available
as soon as possible. Old
dogs are often confused
by the dramatic
change in their circumstances after many years of
companionship in a familiar home, and can’t get
the rest that their systems need because of all the
hustle and bustle in this alien environment. If you
might be able to offer temporary foster care to an
older dog, please contact us.
Understandably, vet costs for older dogs do deter
some potential adopters, so the Centre offers
some help with vets bills for older dogs. We know
that cash is in short supply for many at present,
so we are asking people to donate old CDs and
DVDs so we can sell them to a recycling company.
You can drop off your CDs at WCF in Castle
Douglas, or drop them in to the Rescue Centre at
Glencaple.
For further info contact Diana on 01387 760556 or
email dianalord@btinternet.com.
Glenkens Gazette
page 5
sponsored by
Each issue, this section will highlight a pertinent ‘eco’ issue, with information
that will be useful to local readers. This issue we have a few tips and facts to get
you thinking and hopefully save you energy, and money.
• On average every person in
the UK throws away their own
body weight in rubbish every 7
weeks.
• Every year an estimated 17.5
billion plastic bags are given
away by supermarkets.
• A single tree will absorb one
tonne of carbon dioxide over its
lifetime.
• Fix hot water leaks - a dripping
tap wastes at least 5,500 litres
of water a year: that’s enough
water wasted to fill a paddling
pool every week for the whole
summer.
• Only boil the water you need
By everyone just boiling the
amount of water needed when
making a hot drink we can save
enough energy to power over 7
million TVs for a year.
• Switch appliances off at the
wall. Avoid leaving TVs, videos,
computers or music systems on
standby and remember not to
leave appliances such as mobile
phones on charge unnecessarily.
Even while on standby, most
appliances use electricity, so
switch off and save up to 8% of
your electricity bill.
• The average household wastes
£37 each year by leaving
appliances on standby. Across
the UK this is equivalent to
the annual output of about 21⁄2
700MW power stations.
• Households in the UK now
spend around 10% of their
electricity bill on standby power.
• The average household has up
to 12 gadgets left on standby or
charging at any one time.
• In the UK around 15million
TVs are left on standby for 20
hours per day. If they were all
switched off, we’d save enough
energy to decommission an
entire power station
• £90 million of bakery waste
is thrown away by Scottish
households every year - that’s
enough to make everyone in
Scotland a sandwich a day for
the next 6 months.
• £70 million of fresh fruit waste
is thrown away every year that’s the equivalent of an apple
a day for every school child and
teacher in Scotland for a year
and a half.
• £130 million of meat and
fish waste is thrown away by
Scottish households every year that’s enough to make everyone
in Scotland a bacon buttie every
Saturday for the next year.
• £93 million of dairy waste
is thrown away by Scottish
households every year - that’s
enough for everyone in Scotland
to have milk on their cereal for
the next 6 months.
Twin Support for Local Charities
Following a successful stall at the Autumn
Fayre in Castle Douglas, St Margaret’s
Ladies Guild are delighted to be helping
not one, but two local charities.
Both Dumfries & Galloway Befriending Project and
Sports for Special Needs received a cheque for
£250 from the Guild.
The Dumfries & Galloway Befriending Project
matches selected and suitably qualified adult
befrienders with vulnerable young people, with
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
the aim of making a positive difference in the
young person’s life.
Sports for Special Needs promotes and develops
sports and recreational activities amongst
children, teenagers and adults with special needs.
President of St Margaret’s Ladies Guild, Christine
Rankin, says:
“Outreach to our community is the backbone of
the Ladies Guild and we are so pleased to be in
the happy position of being able to support two
such worthwhile causes”.
GLENKENS
MEDICAL PRACTICE
General Medical &
Dispensing Services
The Surgery
High Street
New Galloway
FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL
01644 420234
T. H. CARSON
BUTCHERS
See us at Dalry Farmers
Market on 2nd Sat each month.
We deliver
every Thursday
Give us a call,
no order too small!
THE CROSS, MILL ST, DALBEATTIE
01556 610 384
Glenkens Gazette
page 6
CatStrand Highlights
There is plenty to keep
you entertained during
these chilly winter months
here at CatStrand.
On Sunday 5 February we are
delighted that award winning
writer Janice Galloway will
be appearing to talk about her
latest book ‘All Made up’ an
autobiography. Janice Galloway
is the author of eight books of
prize winning prose and we are
very much looking forward
to hosting her at CatStrand
(tickets £7/£5).
Our CatStrand Open
Stage is gaining a
reputation as a hotbed of
local talent so make sure
that you don’t miss the next
instalment on Thursday16
February (£3/2 including
a drink). Come along
and perform – singers,
musicians, poets etc all
welcome or just come along
and support those who
are performing – it’s a friendly
laid back atmosphere and a
lovely way to spend a mid week
evening.
Rounding off our season on
Saturday 25 February is Lorna
Reid’s Jazz Cafe making a
welcome return to CatStrand
and creating the intimacy and
relaxed feel of a jazz street cafe.
Lorna was nominated as best
Jazz vocalist in the Scottish Jazz
Awards 2011/12.
Our new season starts in March
The Clog & Shoe
Workshop
unique handmade footwear
open 10am - 5pm weekdays
Easter Mon to 31st October
please ring to arrange a visit at
other times
Tel: 01644 420 465
visit our new online shop at
www.clogandshoe.co.uk
so make sure that you look out
for our new Events Guide which
will be hitting the shelves in early
February.
We’re very excited to be hosting
two of Scotland’s most exciting
young theatre makers, Kieran
Hurley and Gary McNair, with
a double bill presented by The
Arches (one of Scotland’s most
exciting theatres) - Hitch and
Crunch - (Saturday 3 March,
7.30pm £10/8).
Hitch
Kieran Hurley’s autobiographical
performance, Hitch, asks
questions about the meaning and
purpose of political protest, the
limits of personal power, and the
genuine possibility of change.
Gary McNair (who visited the
CatStrand with the RSAMD last
year) presents Crunch, a hilarious
solo show. Gary believes you’ve
got what it takes to complete
his five-step programme and
that you can be liberated from
the tyranny of money forever.
Is it a lecture? Is it a test? Is
he really serious? Find out in
this entertaining and thoughtprovoking live experiment about
the value of money.
Come and celebrate St Patrick’s
Day with us on Friday 17 March
with Irish performers Méabh
O’Hare, Pauline Scanlon
& Friends (7.30pm £10/8).
Though only 27 years old, Pauline
Scanlon is capable of making the
oldest ballads sound immediate
and fresh while granting newer
material a timeless
resonance.
On Wednesday 29 March,
we’re delighted to welcome
the Rua Macmillan Trio
(7.30pm, £10/8). Fiddler
Rua MacMillanhas quickly
made a name for himself
as one the rising stars
of the world of Scottish
contemporary Music. In
2008, Rua was awarded
the prestigious title of BBC
Scotland Young Traditional
Musician of the Year.
The European Arts company
present a double bill of Harold
Pinter’s classic short black
comedies, The Dumb Waiter
& The Lover on 30th March (
7.30pm, £10/8). These two plays
by the Nobel prize winner still
pack the same punch as when
first written.
These are just a few of the
highlights, make sure you
pick up an Events Guide
and call 01644 420 374 or
visit www.catstrand.com for
tickets.
page 7
Busy Bus
Plans are already being
made for Glenkens
Transport Initiative (GTI) to
organise bus trips to new
places this year including
Edinburgh Zoo, Loch
Lomond, Dunoon, Appleby
Horse Fair and Dumfries
House as well as repeat
visits to popular venues.
The programme will start with a
visit to the Hobby Craft Exhibition
in Glasgow on Thursday 8 March
(tickets cannot be booked until
Wednesday 1 February) and on
Monday 19 March we will travel
to Edinburgh to visit the Scottish
National Portrait Gallery
and again on Monday
2 April to visit the Zoo
(tickets for the Edinburgh
trips can be booked on or after
Thursday 1 March).
CONDITIONS OF BOOKING
TRIPS: No bookings will be
accepted prior to the date shown,
all tickets must be paid for within
seven days of booking or at the
time of booking if this is within
seven days of the trip and no
refunds will be considered unless
the ticket can be re-sold to
someone on a waiting list or if
the trip is cancelled by GTI due
to lack of numbers or adverse
weather conditions.
In these difficult financial times
GTI will continue to strive to meet
the needs of the Community in
relation to transport issues, but
any comments or suggestions
you have will be welcomed by
your Committee – Bob Peace
(Chair), Brian Edgar, Ann
McLaughlin, Roy Hooker, Steve
Davies, Jon Nimmo and Keith
Cooper (Administrator).
I hope you all enjoy another
good year using our minibuses please remember the drivers are
mainly volunteers who last year
gave up over 1,000 hours of their
time to fulfil many obligations
that we have – many thanks to
all of them and to all those of
you who continually support GTI
and have made it one of the best
Transport Initiatives in South
West Scotland.
Keith A Cooper, GTI Administrator
A Good Catch for Dalry
The new season starts on Thursday 15
March and it is hoped that Carsfad will be
stocked before it begins.
After the AGM, which was better attended than
usual, we were able to form a Committee and a
ALEX
FERGUSSON
MSP
FOR
GALLOWAY &
WEST DUMFRIES
Holds regular advice surgeries at:
Constituency Office, New Market
Street, Castle Douglas, DG7 1HY
on the 2nd Friday of every month from 5pm
Telephone free on 0800 028
7260 for an appointment
or to make any alternative
arrangement.
You can visit Alex’s website at:
new Treasurer
kindly agreed
to take office.
We hope that our past
problems are over and look
forward to a good season.
To Anglers everywhere tight lines. Barbara Johnson
�����������������������������������������������������
• Pensions • Savings • Investments
• Retirement Options
• Inheritance Tax Planning
• Life Assurance
• Income & Critical Illness
Protection
• Mortgages • Home Insurance
Free Confidential
Initial Consultation
Tel: 01671 403080 Fax:- 01671 402549
Email: brian.edgar@marrfinancial.co.uk
Web: www.marrfinancial.co.uk
61 Victoria Street
NEWTON STEWART
DG8 6NL
www.alexfergusson.org.uk
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on
your mortgage.
or contact him by e-mail at:
For mortgages we can be paid by commission or a fee of usually £300 or a combination of
both. For Home Insurance we usually offer products from a limited panel of providers.
GTI Administrator Keith Cooper
Glenkens Gazette
Glenkens Gazette
page 8
School
Festivities
In the lead up to the
Christmas parties were held on
Monday 19 December, and the
Primary children had a special
visitor - Santa came along and
the boys and girls were very
lucky as Santa had a present
for everyone.
On Friday 9 December, Dalry
School held their annual Coffee
Morning. Stalls included, baking,
bric-a-brac, raffle, Christmas
Crafts and lots of games. A
total of £609 was raised and the
school would like to say thank
you to everyone that helped
make the day a success.
To end the term, children from
the three Glenkens schools
- Carsphairn, Dalry and Kells came together at Dalry Church
for their Christmas service. All
the children, staff and parents
returned to Dalry School for hot
chocolate and shortbread.
Christmas holidays the
Glenkens Schools were in
a flurry of activity.
On Thursday 15 December, Dalry
School held their Christmas
Concert. Performances included
P4/5/6/7 singing the opening
song ‘Christmas Has Started’,
and then songs about Christmas
in Victorian times and how this
is different from the Christmas
today.
The Nursery and P1/2/3
performed the Christmas show
‘Whoops-a-Daisy Angel’, which
was a story about an angel
who always got things wrong,
until the day she was given the
job of telling people about the
birth of Jesus. There were also
musical performances from the
Secondary classes too.
New Galloway
Golf Club
Founded 1902
www.nggc.co.uk
v 01644 420737 v
Buggies now available for hire
VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME
The Nursery performance of ‘Whoops-a-Daisy Angel’
Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP
Solicitors and Estate Agents
Our skilled head chef uses the best local
produce including Galloway beef, Craigadam
lamb and venison, cheese from Rowan Glen and
fish from the Galloway Smokehouse.
01556 503744
www.ggblaw.co.uk
With a warm and friendly atmosphere,
outstanding food and lovely locals, it’s no
wonder The Clachan Inn is fast becoming the
place to be in the Glenkens.
Selling properties across
Dumfries & Galloway
All legal advice
Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie
Kirkcudbright and Dumfries
Tel: 01644 430 241
Email: mail@theclachaninn.co.uk
www.theclachaninn.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 9
90th Anniversary for New Galloway Rural
Founded in 1921, New Galloway Rural
was one of the earliest Institutes in the
Stewartry, gathering a large membership
from the Glenkens area.
In December its 90th Anniversary was celebrated,
with a Lunch Party in New Galloway Town Hall. We
were honoured that the National Chairman, Mrs
Isobel Robertson, and the Federation Chairman,
Mrs Rita Riddick, were both able to be present
along with former members and guests from
neighbouring Institutes.
Now that people are returning to craft work and
economical ways there is plenty to learn at Rural
meetings. There are opportunities to join in with
Stewartry Federation events such as craft classes,
sporting competitions, walks, outings and public
speaking. Organising and running meetings
also provides an opportunity for those who wish
to keep up their office skills or maintain their
confidence during a break from work.
New Galloway Rural meets on the third
Wednesday of the month, except July and August,
and details of meetings are posted in the shop.
The new syllabus starts with a Burns Lunch to be
followed in February and March by talks about
bee-keeping and
travel.
Visitors and potential
members are welcome
- please ring Jenny
on 420235 for more
information.
Cutting the cake
at the Anniversary
celebration - from
left to right, Mrs
Isobel Robertson, Mrs
Primrose Morrison and
Mrs Rita Riddick.
Glenkens Sofa Sessions
The CatStrand Café has a whole new feel, with comfy
sofas, carpet and a brand new fancy coffee machine! And
to celebrate, for February if you buy a coffee you get a free piece of
home-made shortbread. Why not try a latte macchiato or a frothy
cappuchino… Catering Manager Eileen Edgar says: “Why not some
along and read the Gazette while you’re enjoying a coffee!”.
In celebration of the chilled-out atmosphere, and good coffee, the
CatStrand Café will be hosting Glenkens Acoustic Sessions once a
month. On the last Sunday of
the month, from 2-4pm, local
musicians can come along and
showcase their work, have a jam,
and just generally enjoy playing
live music in a friendly setting.
So come along and soak up some
great local music! The first Session
will be Sunday 26th February. See
you there!
Community
Exhibition Boards
10 bespoke exhibi�on boards,
suitable for displaying framed
artwork are available to
borrow free of charge for
community use .
The boards are 4 x 8 foot, freestanding
and painted white.
The boards were purchased for the
community through the Leader Day of
the Region Project.
There is no charge for hiring the boards
but you may have to arrange transport.
For more informa�on or to book them
please contact the CatStrand 01644 420
374 or info@catstrand.com
STEWARTRY SNAPPERS IN THE GLENKENS
The Stewartry Camera Club’s ‘Nature
Competition’ was judged by photographer
Keith Kirk.
Three Glenkens residents had successful results;:
In Group 1, John Houfe came second with ‘Stormy
Weather’, in Group 2, Karen Kubran came first
with ‘A Winter’s Morn’ and fourth with ‘Bloomin’
Marvellous’, and John Repath was second with
‘Exmoor Oaks’.
The Club’s ‘Panel Competition’ was judged by Allan
Wright. Members had enjoyed an evening visit
to Allan’s Parton Gallery in October when they
watched his audio-visual show and listened to his
talk ‘Approaches to Photography’. This was rounded
off by Lorna’s delicious home-baking whilst viewing
the gallery. Allan is a well known and respected
professional photographer from the area and his
views were welcomed by members. Glenkens
winners were John Repath in second place with
‘Sloely Does It’, and Mary McIlvenna in fifth place
with ‘Flower Tutti-Frutti’.
‘A Winter’s Morn’ by Karen Kubran
Glenkens Gazette
page 10
AGNES COOKS…HAGGIS
Welcome to our new
feature ‘Agnes Cooks’,
written by local awardwinning cook Agnes
Holden. In this issue,
Agnes will be cooking
something truly Scottish...
I am writing this in early January
although I am aware that you
are reading it in February /
March. The idea of this column
is to look at seasonal food
and suggest a few ideas. I
have decided to use haggis for
this edition. Although, strictly
speaking it is not “seasonal”
I am surrounded by it at the
moment and it is available all
year round. Love it or hate it, it
is Scottish winter fare!
The first recipe is a supper
dish which can be increased
or decreased depending on
the quantity of people you are
feeding and the size of your
haggis! The second recipe is
good as a nibble with drinks and
as a wee taster for those who
are trying haggis for the first
time. Both recipes can be made
using a meaty or vegetarian
haggis.
Haggis Shepherd’s Pie
1 Haggis
Tin of red kidney beans (or other
- chick peas are good too)
Approx 500ml beef or vegetable
stock
Packet of spinach (about 300g)
Quantity of mashed potatoes
Finely grated cheese (cheddar,
parmesan or a combination of
any hard cheese)
Take the haggis from its casing
and put into a small casserole
dish. Mash down with a fork
and spread over the dish (you
can put the haggis into the
microwave for a minute or so
and it will soften enough to
mash - but make sure it is
out of its casing first or it will
explode!) Drain and rinse the
beans and mix into the haggis.
Add the stock and stir through.
Wash and drain the spinach and
put into a pot with no added
water. Put onto the heat to
soften - you want to take the
“bounce” out of the spinach but
not actually cook it. Take it from
the heat and spread over the
haggis. Top with the mashed
potatoes and sprinkle over the
cheese. Put into the oven 190C
/mark 7 for about 40 mins and
nicely toasted on top. Larger
quantities will take longer so you
might want to loosely cover with
foil if it is getting too brown on
top.
Haggis Puffs
Roll out a sheet of puff pastry
and using a 6/7cm round cutter
cut out circles. Put a teaspoonful
of haggis on each round and
top with a little mango chutney
(other chutneys work well too).
Brush the edges with a little
water and fold one half over to
make a semi circle. Crimp the
edges with a fork and brush the
tops with a little beaten egg.
Make a small slit in the top of
each and cook for about 12 mins
at 200C / mark 6. As with all
haggis these need to be eaten
hot. They can be cooked in
advance and frozen. Just defrost
and reheat when needed.
PANCAKE LUNCH 2012
Balmaclellan and Kells Guild
will be holding their 15th
Pancake Lunch on Shrove
Tuesday 21 February, in
New Galloway Town Hall
from 12 noon to 2pm.
This has become a very popular
event in New Galloway over the
years and a different charity
has been chosen to benefit each
year.
This year it is to be The British
Heart Foundation (BHF). Please
come along for your pancakes
and support this charity.
At the Guild meeting the
T: 01644 460 670
Dog Training & Dog
Training Courses
�� Dalry Town Hall
D Eric Broadhurst (NDOA Advanced Instructor)
The Fleet Fish van is in the Glenkens
on Tuesdays & Wednesdays every
week. Anyone wishing me to call,
please phone Mary on above mobile no.
D One of the countries leading dog trainers
D ���������������������������������
For more information visit our web site
www.realdogtrainingscotland.co.uk
following month, on Wednesday
14 March, a speaker from the
BHF will be coming to receive
a cheque and to give a talk
about their work. This will be an
open meeting for anyone who is
interested in this vital work.
Joan Walker, Balmaclellan &
Kells Guild
Glenkens Gazette
page 11
Piano Success for 2011 New Year,
passing Grade 3, and Lowena
Zarah Groves, local piano
New You!
Lindsey who passed Grade 6
teacher, would like to
congratulate her pupils for
their achievements in 2011.
Pupil Bronnen
“This was a brilliant year for the
talented young pianists in the
Glenkens, with some fabulous
results in the Associated Board
of Royal Schools of Music piano
exams.
“Some examples are Emily Jones
who passed Grade 3 with a Merit,
and Kirsten Wallace who passed
Grade 4 only one term after
Theory, which is a particularly
difficult exam that hardly anyone
takes.”
I’m afraid there just isn’t space
to include all the names of pupils
and their achievements, but
Zarah did mention everyone, so
don’t feel left out if you don’t see
your name. Zarah goes on to say:
“I would like to congratulate all
my talented and extremely hardworking pupils. Anyone who has
ever tried to learn to play an
instrument knows how difficult it
is, that it requires a great deal of
dedication and practice.
“And passing these exams is
difficult - they require a very high
level of performance standard
and to be able to cope with the
nerves that are associated with
performing in front of a stranger
on an unfamiliar piano.
“So, I would like to say to all my
wonderful pupils a very big ‘Well
Done’ and all the best for more
successes in 2012.”
If you would like to get in touch
with Zarah, you can call her on
01644 460636.
Some tips from local
Nutritionist & Dietician
Lorna Willock:
1. Eat plenty of vitamin C to
keep those winter viruses at bay.
2. Include more zinc in your
diet - it is an essential mineral
for our immune health. High
sources are shellfish, seeds,
lean meat and nuts.
3. Look for a supplement
containing immune boosting
foods such as elderberries.
4. At social events you could
carry a tissue with a few drops
of tea tree and eucalyptus
essential oils to kill some
airborne bacteria and viruses
responsible for colds & flu.
5. Keep stress levels down;
stress greatly undermines our
immune health making us
vulnerable to illness.
6. Try and to add in some extra
exercise – go walking or hill
climbing – take advantage of
living in this lovely area!
For further health information
see www.foods4life.co.uk or
call Lorna on 470 218.
SPINDLES - a quirky, humorous fictional story written by Gordon and Geoff Hill.
Below is a short excerpt...more to follow in future issues.
A new type of book has been developed
by an inventor in the Glenkens. It’s an
electronic intelligent book that tried to
behave more like a real book but that also
gives you lots of help when you need it.
Local voices can read it to you if you wish.
Amongst others you can chose Romantic
Rosalind for a cosy approach, the Professor
for an academic angle, the Minister for a
serious approach or Rainy Day Roland
for a weather forecaster’s structured take.
I went across to their office to see how the
early customers were getting on with their
intelligent books and listened in to some
telephone calls:
“Spindles Electronic Bookshop. Good
morning.”
“Do you have a copy of ‘Pride and
Prejudice?”
Click click Tum- tum -tumpty –tum- “Yes,
here we are. One copy in stock but it’s got
a flat battery. We’ll have to charge it before
we send it out. We’ll do that when War
and Peace has been topped up. Should be
with you Thursday, sir. Would you like it
Moroccan covered or plastic? We always
think the leather looks better on the shelf.”
“Yes, the leather please.”
“And who would you like to read it to you?
Options on this one are Amorous Amanda,
Serious Sydney or Romantic Rosalind.”
“Rosalind. She was really cool with
Wuthering Heights. Just the right inflection
for Heathcliffe.”
“We’ll slot her in for you then.”
“Thanks. Bye.”
“Spindles Electronic Bookshop. Good
morning.”
“Hello. Can you help me?”
“We aim to please. What’s the problem?”
“I’ve dropped a glass of vodka on the book
and now the reader is slurred and he laughs
at all the jokes. I’m supposed to do the
laughing.”
“It’s the new absorbent chips they use now.
It makes the speech smoother. Alcohol
isn’t good for them. We’ll probably have
to replace the old one and send it off for
rehab.”
“Will that cure the stutter?”
“Ah, you’ve got one of those have you? I’m
afraid that’s one of Intrel’s little jokes. One
book in a thousand gets a speech defect.
The last one lisped badly and there was
one that put an expletive at the beginning
of every paragraph. Unfortunately, he
was reading Wind In The Bloody Willows.
Bring it in and we’ll give it some therapy.”
“O.K. Bye.”
“Spindles Electronic Bookshop. Good
morning.”
“My cookery book doesn’t smell right.”
“Perhaps you’ve left the virtual fridge door
open?”
“No. I look up sausages and get the smell
for marmalade and when I turn to the recipe
for chicken curry, I get burned toast. My
reader says it makes him feel nauseous and
he’s threatened to shut down and throw up.”
“You’ve obviously got the wrong smell
module installed. Bring it in and we’ll
change it for you.”
“I’ll do that. Bye.”
Glenkens Gazette
page 12
Alexander Gordon Memorial Stone
In last year’s April/May
issue of the Gazette,
the idea was floated of
erecting a memorial stone
to the noted Covenanter
Alexander Gordon
of Earlstoun in Dalry
churchyard.
It was mentioned how
he survived the times of
persecution and was buried in
Dalry churchyard in 1726, but no
stone ever raised over his grave.
I mentioned how his grandson
had prepared an inscription
and poem for such a stone (the
words of which are preserved in
the Gordon papers in the Ewart
Library, Dumfries), but lack of
money had prevented him from
fulfilling his plans.
It was most encouraging to
see the way local people rallied
round this project and the stone
was erected in November.
On Sunday 27 November a
service was held in Dalry
Church, followed by the
dedication of the memorial stone
and the unveiling of a plaque on
the Gordons of Earlstoun, which
is attached to Dalry Session
House alongside the stone.
The stone was funded by
a generous grant of £1200
from the Scottish Covenanter
Memorials Association, by
a grant of £500 from Dalry
Community Council (drawing
on a bequest from Miss Jean
Gibson, who always took an
interest in the history of the
Glenkens) and by donations
from many local individuals.
Thanks are also due to Russell
Brooks of Ayrshire Memorials
for producing the stone for a
considerably reduced price. A
grant of £500 from the Galloway
Association of Glasgow largely
covered the cost of the plaque.
We are sure Sir John Gordon
would be delighted with the
memorial to his grandfather,
inscribed with his own words.
Now some 240 years after he
failed to realise his own plans
we have raised a memorial to a
valiant man who lived through
those troubled times. It is hoped
the stone and plaque will form
a focal point for the proposed
Glenkens Covenanter trail.
David Bartholomew
K e l l s Pa r i s h Wa r M e m o r i a l
There are twenty four war memorials in the Glenkens
but the memorial to the men of Kells Parish in the
burgh of New Galloway, at a height of twenty five feet,
is certainly the largest.
The site in the Showfield was gifted by the tutors of John Seaforth
Maitland Gordon of Kenmure (his father had died previously and
he was only twelve years old himself). The monument is made of
granite from the Burnfoot quarries on the Kenmure Estate and the
symbol at the top of the memorial is a Chi Rho, one of the earliest
Christian symbols which was brought to Galloway by Saint Ninian.
The memorial was built by Messrs Murray and McCubbing of New
Galloway from an original design by Captain J W Dods VD. It was
unveiled by Vice Admiral Sir A J Henniker-Heughan Bart CB RN
of Airds on Sunday 23 April 1922, and custody was accepted by
Provost Cowan on behalf of the Town and Parish councils.
The memorial is a well known local landmark and is still used for
the service of Remembrance every November. It is also a familiar
backdrop for the annual Alternative Games.
If you know about someone
who is listed on a memorial
then it helps to understand
the importance of it so I
would like to tell you about
one of those listed on this
memorial.
Lance Sergeant Adam Byers
was the son of a shepherd,
born in Kells parish, and was
the oldest son of William
and Sarah Byers. Although
they had originally lived
in Glenshimmeroch near
Lochinvar, they had moved
to Craigenbay near Clatteringshaws by the time war broke out. His
father had already died so he left behind a widowed mother, younger
brother and two sisters when he enlisted just six weeks after the start
of the war. He left behind his job as a gamekeeper at Dunveoch
farm in the Garroch Glen.
We actually know much more about Adam from his service records;
he had blue eyes, two vaccination marks on his left arm and he was
once reprimanded for appearing for guard duty without having
shaved. One day in September 1915 at the battle of Loos, over five
hundred men of the Battalion were killed wounded or missing in
a single day (over half the men). Adam Byers survived. By April
1916 he was in the trenches near the Hohenzollern Redoubt and an
extract from the Battalion war diary of this period relates:
“...the rain came down in torrents and continued incessantly for forty hours. It
is very difficult to imagine the misery and discomfort which the men suffered.
The so-called trenches were full of water up to the men’s knees. It was almost
impossible for the ration or water parties to get up or down. During the second
afternoon of this downpour, the German artillery hit our front line.”
Adam Byers survived all this, so it was ironic, therefore, that on 28
May 1916 he was the only man from his Battalion who was killed
whilst on a wiring patrol, when he was hit by a trench mortar. Like
many others, his body was never found so he has no grave, but his
name is inscribed on the wall of the memorial at Loos.
That is how a tragedy can affect one family and if we look at the four
men named McCheyne, they were all brothers – what the rest of
their family must have suffered is virtually uknown in modern times.
If you would like to know more about this memorial or any other
memorials in Dumfries & Galloway, please check out the Scottish
War Memorial project at http://tinyurl.com/39u8g8. If you have
information that you would like to share about anyone listed on
this memorial or you have any photographs of those listed, please
contact Paul Goodwin on 07973 174342 or memorials@paulgood
win.me.uk. And the next time you pass a war memorial, please stop
and read a name...and pause for thought.
Paul Goodwin
Glenkens Gazette
page 13
LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN
The Glenkens Railway
for information about a large block of
wood, which the Parton-bound train struck
on the viaduct. A fish train from Stranraer
derailed at Mossdale in 1913, and at 5am
on 30 December 1935 the nightly ‘Paddy’,
emerging from the west side of the bridge,
lost seven of its coaches down the righthand embankment. In the midst of the
wreckage were very dazed postal sorters but
no one was seriously hurt.
The Portpatrick Railway first ran through
Glenkens in March 1861, generating an
almost unprecedented spirit of optimism
concerning future economic benefits and
the end of Galloway’s isolation. It was killed
off in June 1965 due to a combination of
public apathy and the lethal lack of foresight
displayed by the Tory government acting
on the recommendations of ‘Butcher’
Beeching, chairman of the British Railways
Board.
When the railway opened Mr Wellwood
Maxwell of Glenlee hosted a public dinner
in New Galloway; the burgh’s punchbowl
was filled with toddy and the enterprise’s
success toasted. Maxwell advocated the
extension of the track to Dalry. A man
of true vision he also proposed a line to
Sanquhar as the most effective link to
Edinburgh and Glasgow. In 1898 a light
railway from New Galloway station to
Dalmellington was discussed, to be briefly
revived in 1918, but to no avail.
The railway followed the construction of
the Dumfries-Castle Douglas line, inspiring
a number of landowners and business
interests in Wigtownshire to campaign for
an extension to Portpatrick and thus Ireland.
As a result most of the finance for western
expansion was raised through local efforts, a
source of great Galloway pride.
The rails entered Glenkens at Crossmichael
running up the lochside to Parton,
crossing the Loch Ken Viaduct (pictured)
to Mossdale or New Galloway station,
where navvies erected their huts during
construction, and then headed into the hills
by way of Stroan Viaduct and the roadless
country around lonely Loch Skerrow.
Between there and Gatehouse station,
according to C H Dick, the savagery of
scenery caused some travellers to ‘shudder at
the recollection’!
Malcolm Harper had a poem in which an
auld wife ‘saw a train come cross the Dee,/
Oh! What a woners thing said she’. The
Loch Ken Viaduct, at the ferry crossing of
Boat of Rhone, built at a cost of £12,288
and 13 shillings (around £600,000 today)
was regarded then, as now, as one of the
finest features on the entire railway. A
proposal to provide a road alongside the rails
was rejected. The three 130 foot spans are
supported by two piers consisting of stoneclad iron cylinders sunk in 36 feet of water.
However not all locals were impressed. In
December 1861 a £20 reward was offered
Loch Ken Viaduct looking west- © Padeapix
Today a newspaper
headline proclaiming
‘Glenkens Derailment’
is much more likely to
be associated with some
snag in local planning
permission rather than
the great age of railways.
There can be no doubt that the railway,
for a time, improved Galloway’s links with
England and Ireland but it only marginally
enhanced those with central Scotland.
On the other hand the trains brought
unprecedented numbers of visitors to
Glenkens. Shooters and fishermen made for
Loch Skerrow. Landowners were convinced
trains transported additional poachers. On
12 August railway staff allegedly did well
by contriving to have the earliest grouse,
victims of overhead wires and possibly
the trains too, on London tables. Children
from Dromore and Skerrow took the train
to school at Mossdale. Skerrow residents
received remoteness payments and were
allowed six tons a year of free coal.
Additionally they were given weekly ‘market
tickets’ for shopping in Castle Douglas.
There was also a Wednesday-only service
between
Castle
Douglas
and New Galloway. Mail services certainly
improved locally. Station-masters at
Mossdale and Crossmichael were permitted
to open post offices. Overall trains opened
up additional markets for local agricultural
produce and game.
Tourists were the major acquisition,
inspired from the 1890s by the works of S
R Crockett, among others. An Edinburgh
hotelier took a lease of the hotel at
Ken Bridge in anticipation of guests
exploring an unknown part of Scotland,
travelling on some of the three trains
each way daily except Sunday. Carriers of
goods and passengers also experienced
considerable increase in business. The first
motor charabanc was in service between
Dalmellington and Dalry in 1912, later
extended to New Galloway, but at 3 shillings
and sixpence, one way, it was expensive.
In the 1890s slower horse-drawn public
conveyance was widely available, leaving
from the Kenmure Arms and Cross Keys
Hotel at 9am and 2.45pm, from the station
at 10.01am and 3.29pm (note the precise
timings!) Transport was also available
for Dalry and Carsphairn. On Monday
and Saturday there was a service from
Balmaclellan (via Ironmacannie) to Parton at
8.30am.
H D Thorne in his thorough study Rails
to Portpatrick (2nd ed. 2005) laments the
description of the Loch Ken Viaduct as
‘a very rickety old bridge’. Now in private
ownership it is reportedly not so decrepit
as to be impassable to Land Rovers during
the shooting season but the most iconic
structure of Glenkens’ modest railway era
is not improving with age. While fully aware
of the difficulties involved, might it be
suggested that, somewhat restored, it would
make a wonderful walking and cycle route, as
well as a monument to past local aspirations.
The failure to develop the Glenkens railway
northwards was every bit as disastrous as
its closure. The partial re-opening of the
viaduct would indeed be a ‘woners thing’.
For some excellent photographs of the
surviving railway architecture of the whole
line see Martin Allen’s recent, To Stranraer
and Beyond the old railway from Dumfries
to Portpatrick.
Ted Cowan
Glenkens Gazette
page 14
GLENKENS DIARY...
FEBRUARY
Sat 25, Lorna Reid’s Jazz Cafe,
7.30pm, £10/8, CatStrand
Scanlon & Friends, 7.30pm, £10/
8, CatStrand
Sun 5, Janice Galloway, 4pm,
£7/5, CatStrand
Sun 26, Glenkens Acoustic
Sessions, 2-4pm, CatStrand
Mon 6, Dalry Community
Council Meeting, 7pm, Dalry
Town Hall
Mon 27, Balmaclellan
Community Council Meeting,
7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village
Hall
Mon 19, Bus Trip - Scottish
National Portrait Gallery:
Edinburgh
Tue 8, Talk: Understanding
Osteoporosis, 1-3m, free,
CatStrand
runs to Fri 10, Exhibition: Dalry
School, CatStrand
Mon 12, New Galloway & Kells
Community Council Meeting,
7.30pm, New Galloway Town
Hall
Wed 15 Feb – Wed 28 March,
Exhibition: Andrew Adair & Gwen
Adair, CatStrand
Mon 27, Carsphairn Community
Council Meeting, 7pm, Lagwyne
Hall
MARCH
Fri 2, CatStrand Youth Players,
7.30pm, £5/3, CatStrand
Sat 3, Hitch and Crunch,
7.30pm, £10/8, CatStrand
Thurs 8, Bus Trip - Hobby Craft
Exhibition: Glasgow
Thurs 16, Open Stage, 7pm,
£3/2, CatStrand
Wed 14, Balmaclellan & Kells
Guild Talk
Tue 21, Pancake Lunch, New
Galloway Town Hall
Thurs 15, Film: My Week
With Marilyn, 7.30pm, £5/4,
CatStrand
Thurs 23, Film: We Need To
Talk About Kevin, 7.30pm, £5/4,
CatStrand
CHURCH OF
SCOTLAND
Sundays:
Balmaclellan: 12noon 1st,
Carsphairn: 10.30am 1st
2nd 3rd 4th, Dalry: 12noon
1st 2nd 3rd 4th, Kells:
10.30am 2nd,3rd 4th
Special Services/
Events:
24 Feb, 7pm: Beetle Drive,
Dalry Town Hall
2 March, 7pm: World
Day of Prayer Service, St
Margaret’s Church, New
Galloway
16 March, Church Ceilidh,
Dalry Town Hall
Thurs 15, fishing season starts
Sat 17, Méabh O’Hare, Pauline
Communion
Service: 26 Feb,
10.30am, Kells Church
11 March, 12 noon, Dalry
Church
18 March, 10.15 am,
Carsphairn Church
SCOTTISH
EPISCOPAL
CHURCH (C of
E): St Margaret’s,
New Galloway: Holy
Communion - 10.30am
every Sun & Wed
CATHOLIC
CHURCH
SERVICES:
Gatehouse of Fleet: Sat,
6pm. Kirkcudbright: Sun,
9.30am. Dalbeattie: Sun,
11am
Thurs 22, Workshop: Facebook,
10-12 noon, FREE, CatStrand
Thurs 22, Workshop: Staying
in Touch (Skype), 1.30-3.30pm,
£15, CatStrand
Thurs 22, Film: The Space
Between, 7.30pm, £5/4,
CatStrand
Thurs 29, Rua MacMillan Trio,
7.30pm, £10/8, CatStrand
Fri 30, The Dumb Waiter & The
Lover, 7.30pm, £10/8, CatStrand
Sat 31, Colin Prior, 7.30pm, £6,
CatStrand
Sat 31 March – Wed 30
May, Exhibition: Galloway
Photography Collective,
CatStrand
APRIL
Mon 2, Bus Trip - Edinburgh Zoo
ADVERTISE IN
THE GAZETTE
(per issue)
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YOUR AD TODAY
USEFUL NUMBERS:
● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000
● Local Police: 0845 600 5701
● Doctor: 01644 420 234
● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24
● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000
Dalry Library
Tue: 2 - 4.30pm
then 5.30 - 7.30pm
Fri: 11:15am - 1:15pm
then 2 - 4.30pm
23 mobile library stops
- to find out where and
when call 430 234
Glenkens Gazette
page 15
OCTOBER & NOVEMBER
REGULAR EVENTS:
The CatStrand, New
Galloway (01644 420
374):
Catstrand Youth Players:
Sun during term time, 2pm
11am
Play it by Ear: Thurs during
term time, 10-11am
Children’s Dance Class:
Mon during term time, 3.454pm, age 3-7
Carers Coffee & Chat: Tues,
10am-12noon
Teen Spirit: Tues during
term time, 7.30-9.30pm
Taking the First Step in
Computing: Wed, 5.307.30pm
Boxercise: Wed, 7-8pm, £4,
New Galloway Town Hall
Zumba: Wed: 8-9pm, New
Galloway Town Hall, £4
Gentle Yoga & Relaxation:
Thurs, 10-11.15am
Sing it Out: Thurs,
11.30am-12.30pm
Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri
each month, 2pm
Family Film Club: 1st Sat
each month, 11am, £20/£10
membership
Saturday Art Club: 2nd Sat
each month, 10am–12noon
Glenkens Playgroup: MonFri, 9.15-11.45am (contact
- Julie 01644 460 687)
Paint & Art: Mon, 1.304.30pm & Wed, 7-9pm
Ballroom & Latin Dance
drop-in: Mon, 7.30-9pm, £5
Ballroom & Latin Dance
course: Mon, 9-10pm, for
more info tel Sam Hood on
01644 420672
Good Neighbours Club:
Tues, 2pm
Kickback Martial Arts: Tues
& Thurs, 7-9pm, both adults
& children welcome
Glenkens Mother &
Toddlers: Wed, 1.30-3pm
Thursday Craft Group:
starts again Thurs 20 Oct, 24pm
Brownies: Wed, 5.306.45pm
Guides: Tue during termtime, 6.15pm, contact: Kath
430 281
Glenkens Community
Exercise to Music: Mon, 10- Centre (Dalry):
Various Locations:
Scouts: Mon, 7–8.30pm,
New Galloway Scout Hut
Mother & Toddlers: Tues,
9.45-11.15am, New Galloway
Town Hall
Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm,
New Galloway Scout Hut
Dog Training: Tue, 7pm,
Dalry Town Hall. Not on 27
Dec or 17 Jan. Contact 460
670
Stewartry Camera Club:
Wed, 7.30pm, The Tolbooth,
Kirkcudbright
Mossdale Painters: Wed,
9.30am, Mossdale Village Hall
Cub Scouts: Wed, 6.45–
8pm, New Galloway Scout
Hut
Thursday Lunch Club:
12.30pm, New Galloway
Town Hall, fortnightly
starting 6 Jan, £3, contact
- Raymond Vincent, 01644
420451.
Advice Surgeries with Alex
Fergusson MSP, 2nd Friday
of the month from 5pm,
contact: 0800 028 7260
Lions Club monthly quiz:
alternating between The
CatStrand & Lochinvar Hotel,
contact - Andrew Frew,
01644 420 323
Glenkens Gazette
page 16
In the Bag for Glenkens Guides
After 50 years, the 1st
Glenkens Guides Unit is
still going strong.
The unit was first registered in
January 1961, which just shows
that being a Guide can still offer
girls an interesting and up-todate programme with plenty of
challenges.
At the moment our Unit is quite
small, but the enthusiasm of the
Guides is shown in what they
achieve. In this past year they
were proud to have won the
Girlguiding Stewartry County
Challenge Shield, competed for
by many patrols in the County.
Their self-chosen programme
also included such things as a
patrol sleepover, a ‘Traditions
of Guiding’ day which involved
outdoor cookery and various
outdoor skills, kayaking on Loch
Ken whilst working for ‘Go-ForIt-with-a-Splash’, and a longerterm project which resulted in
gaining their Music Group badge.
Now, well into 2012, they have
an ambitious fund-raising project
on the go for which they are
appealing for your support.
The project is entitled Bonanza
Bags and aims to raise funds
for the SSPCC ‘Children First’
charity, and for their own Unit
FUEL ROUND THE
now has a 24 hour
CLOCK Dalry
fuel forecourt - but this
isn’t the first time fuel has been available
at all hours from The Garage...
Over 30 years ago, Dalry was one of the first fuel
stations in the south of Scotland to have a 24 hour
forecourt. In the mid-seventies Willie Bone ‘senior’
introduced a new concept at the time; a 50-pence
coin operated pump. This installation allowed fuel
sales around the clock. However, once fuel went
over a £1 per gallon, this service became extinct
due to a law which stated the minimum sales of
motor spirit was half of a gallon!
Another first was when Willie ‘senior’ introduced
lead-free petrol in the late 80’s, and Dalry was
one of the first forecourts in Dumfries & Galloway
retailing the then new unleaded petrol.
Now, following in his father’s tradition, William Bone
has installed the 21st Century answer to roundthe-clock fuel retailing, with the first un-manned
forecourt in the Stewartry.
The main aim of the project was to end up with a
modern fuel forecourt and also to be one of the top
rural sites in Scotland. Hopefully, further ‘firsts’ will
continue to take place in the future - watch this
space!
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
APRIL/MAY COPY DEADLINE: Fri 9 March
activities, through selling bags
made from recycled materials.
If you have any old fabrics,
suitable items of unwanted
clothing, trims, cotton thread,
buttons, zips, etc, these can be
passed on to any Guide or to
Unit Guide Leaders Mrs Kathryn
Peace (01644 430281) or Mrs
Sarah McAdam (01644 430393).
We hope to be able to sell bags
by word of mouth and by having
stalls at various venues - but
first of all we have to get plenty
made! So if you can support 1st
Glenkens Guides by donating
fabric or buying bags it would be
much appreciated.
Mrs Peace and Mrs McAdam
would also be delighted to be
contacted by anyone who would
like more information about
joining the Guides, the minimum
age for which is 10 years.
W BONE
WHB JEEPS
THE GARAGE, DALRY
PETROL & DIESEL SALES
SERVICE & REPAIRS
MOTs, TYRES, BATTERIES
ALL AT COMPETITIVE PRICES
OPEN 8.30AM - 6.00PM (SIX DAYS)
10AM - 6PM SUNDAYS
FUEL 24 HOURS
SHOP • SANDWICH BAR • LOTTERY
Tel: 01644 430208 Fax: 01644 430669
email: jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk
whbjeeps.co.uk
Design & co-ordination:
Sarah Ade
sarah_ade@tiscali.co.uk
Printing:Stranraer &
Wigtownshire Free Press
www.stranraer-freepress.co.uk
The Glenkens Gaze�e is an ini�a�ve of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Sco�sh Charity No. SC032050
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Glenkens Gazette
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2012
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Editor: Sarah Ade
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Glenkens Gazette 69
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Glenkens Gazette
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Glenkens Gazette
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<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> </span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p>
<p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span> </span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p>
<p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p>
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GLENKENS GAZETTE
News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry
April/May 2012
ISSUE 69
FREE
Twin Trophies for Youth Players
The Glenkens ’73 Club
CatStrand Youth Players’
performance of ‘Teesha’s
Got Elves’ was awarded
the Bill McKinnon Award for
the highest marks overall in
production out of every entry,
including adult productions.
The team also took home the
Lochside Youth Theatre Trophy
as the best youth production
for 2012. The award acted as
their ticket to the next round
of the competition on Saturday
24 March when they competed
against the other West of
Eleanor Jones and Lowena Lindsay of the Catstrand Youth
Players. Photo courtesy of the Galloway News.
The CatStrand Youth
Players entered two
plays to be proud
of at this year’s
Stewartry District
Drama Festival at
Lochside Theatre,
and were doubly
delighted to triumph
with two trophies to
top it all off.
Scotland Winners in Kilmarnock.
The performance enthralled
the audience and provided a
huge challenge for two young
actresses, Eleanor Jones and
Lowena Lindsay, who met the
challenge head on and held the
stage throughout the play, ably
supported by twelve ‘elves’, a
few of whom were making their
debut stage appearances!
The CatStrand Youth Players
also amused the audience and
impressed the adjudicator with
their other entry ‘Cinderella: The
Sequel’. The outrageous plot and
hilarious comedy moments in
this play were complemented
by an experienced cast who
seemed to enjoy themselves just
as much as the audience!
Both plays were performed
at the CatStrand to a very
appreciative audience on Friday
2 March.
AWARD-WINNING READING
Gill receiving her award.
Dalry resident Gill Stanyard has
brought home a prestigious award
for her hard work in the field of
mental health.
In March this year Gill won the EDGE 2012
Social Award for her project ‘Get into Reading’
which aims to increase well-being amongst
people with dementia and carers through
shared reading groups.
The award highlights and rewards good practice
in innovative information projects and the
project won the social category for increased
participation.
See p3 for the rest of the story...
A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve
www.glenkensgaze�e.com
Glenkens Gazette
page 2
World Book Day
The whole of Dalry School, from Nursery Pupil librarians
to S4 and staff, made an event of World from Carsphairn
Book Day on Friday 2 March by coming launched their
dressed as a character from a book.
re-vamped
As well as raising money to boost the much-used
school library to
library shelves, it was a colourful culmination to a
coincide with the
week of book-related activities.
run up to World
Jane Banner (school librarian, Dalry)
jbanner749@ea.dumgal.sch.uk Book Day on
Friday 2 March.
The P4/5 pupil team
that run the flourishing Puffin Book Club are as
enthusiastic about books as the P6/7 librarians. Their
enthusiasm has caught on and all pupils are enjoying
Friday afternoon library time and borrowing books to
take home (as much as the librarians enjoy stamping
them out!)
Mr McKenna (principal teacher) and Mrs Banner
(school librarian), who support the pupil teams,
hope that the Carsphairn pupil librarians will be
pioneers in the Glenkens Cluster, helping train new
pupil librarians and promoting the sharing of books
between the schools.
Dalry Community Council: It was reported that a formula for allocating funds for the Glenkens
wind farm sub-committee will take a long time to develop but progress was being made. The
Developers had been identified and are to be approached. It was thought that it would take at
least 3-4 years before any money was likely to be available but the aim of the committee is to get
maximum benefit for the Glenkens Community. Next meetings: Mon 2 Apr & 7 May, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall.
New Galloway & Kells Community Council: Complaints have been received regarding the
picking up and dropping off of school children outside the Old Bank. It was felt by the meeting
that there is no reason why schoolchildren should not be picked up at the usual bus stops (Achie
Bridge, Town Hall & Old Bank) on the normal bus circular route as used to be the case. The matter
is to be raised with the Council. Next meetings: Mon 9 Apr & 14 May, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall.
Carsphairn Community Council: A member of the community warned against bogus
policemen asking for credit card donations for a yearbook to promote the police.
The funding application to the Lottery’s ‘Investing in Ideas’ scheme for a feasibility study of
Greystones Pub was submitted Mon 20 Feb. A response is expected in 6 weeks.
The CC has enquired of Natural Power whether Carsphairn’s community benefits would increase
with regard to the extended Windy Standard wind farm and we were informed it was not an
extension and is now called Ashmark Hill. Planning permission has not yet been granted; CC to
continue to investigate. . Next meetings: Mon 30 Apr & 28 May, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall.
Balmaclellan Community Council: Next meetings: Mon 30 Apr & 28 May, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall.
Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library.
GTI WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE
(registered route)
DALBEATTIE MOBILE POST OFFICE
MONDAY
Corsock: 12:30-1.30pm, Balmaclellan: 2.303.30pm, Mossdale: 4-5pm
WEDNESDAY
Balmaclellan: 2:45-4:45pm
THURSDAY
Mossdale: 9:30-10:30am, Balmaclellan:
11am-1pm, Corsock: 2-3pm
Bill payments, postage, banking, motor
vehicle licences, travel insurance, bureau
de change, key charging and mobile top-up.
Outward Journey:
19:00 Dept. Dalry (Underhill)
19:10 New Galloway
19:25 Mossdale
19:35 Laurieston
19:40 Townhead of
Greenlaw
19:47 Castle Douglas
(Market St)
19:50 Castle Douglas (Tesco)
Return journey:
20:45 Dept. Castle Douglas (Tesco)
20:47 Castle Douglas (Market St)
20:52 Townhead of Greenlaw
21:00 Laurieston
21:10 Mossdale
21:25 New Galloway
To book a GTI bus or for more information please contact keith cooper,
GTI Administrator, on 01644 420374.
Glenkens Gazette
Continued from front page...
Get into Reading is an
innovative shared reading
model which Gill Stanyard
has piloted across Scotland
for people with dementia
and their carers.
Gill says: “We need to remember
the person behind the dementia
and do what we can to ensure
that they can live as well as they
can, with full opportunities for
meaningful engagement. Carers
of people with dementia can
have the roughest ride due to the
changing and progressive nature
of the disease. We need to look
after these carers and ensure they
have good respite and feel cared
for and connected to others.“
Get into Reading seeks to use the
shared reading aloud of stories
and poems to increase well-being
and reduce isolation.
Natural discussion develops and
participants share experiences,
memories and their thoughts and
feelings about the reading.
page 3
“We have found that attendance
at a Get into Reading group can
increase empathy and well-being
and reduce feelings of isolation
and loneliness,” says Gill.
As the majority of people with
dementia are cared for at home,
it is important to reach local
communities where people
can have easy access to group
sessions. This is especially
important in a rural area like
Dumfries & Galloway.
The next phase of the lotteryfunded project will be run here
in D&G as two three-month
programmes of weekly shared
reading groups. Gill says:
“IT FEELS GREAT TO BE
DOING THIS BACK AT HOME
IN DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY”.
The group in Dumfries is for
carers and starts on Thursday
29 March from 10am-12noon at
the Alzheimer Scotland office, 1
Gordon Street.
The other group, which is for both
carers and people with dementia,
starts on Wednesday 28 March
at 10am at Castle Dougals
Community Centre.
Glenkens residents are welcome
to attend both groups; Gill has
tried to work it in around the bustimes too, so people who don’t
drive can still attend.
And Get into Reading is not just
for older folk... At the moment
Gill is working in Dalry Secondary
School, along with Catherine
Phillips (who co-wrote the funding
bid for the schools project)
running a reading group with
some of the students.
Gill says: “I love my job with
the Reader Organisation. It is
rewarding in many ways, but the
real reward for me is when people
have ‘Got into Reading’ and tell
me it’s the thing they most look
forward to in their week.”
Gill would like to thank everyone
who helped make this project a
reality - and well done Gill!
For more information on Get
into Reading you can phone
Gill on 07807 106 799 or visit
www.thereader.org.uk.
Our skilled head chef uses the best local
produce including Galloway beef, Craigadam
lamb and venison, cheese from Rowan Glen and
fish from the Galloway Smokehouse.
With a warm and friendly atmosphere,
outstanding food and lovely locals, it’s no
wonder The Clachan Inn is fast becoming the
place to be in the Glenkens.
Tel: 01644 430 241
Email: mail@theclachaninn.co.uk
www.theclachaninn.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 4
sponsored by
EVERYTHING listed on the Glenkens Freecycle page is FREE - you just
need to contact the owner and go and pick it up!
Anyone can list an item they no longer want, and hopefully someone else in the area is looking for just that thing
and will come and collect it. You can also list items you are looking for in the hope that someone else is getting rid
of something similar and will get in touch with you. If you would like to list something on this page, please get in
touch with Sarah on 07727 127 997 or email glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk.
Please remember that people list their items in good faith that they will go to an appreciative
home - items are not to be collected simply to sell on.
Furniture
TV/Stereo wooden stand.
Contact: 420 839
Beanbag (adult Marimeko
pattern). Contact: 420 839
“I think it’s a
brilliant idea for our
communities”
Butcher’s Trolley (still in IKEA
flatpack). Contact: 420 839
Sofa Bed, futon style mattress
on pine framework, almost
double bed size. Heavy and
solid! Contact: Andi on 430 255
Various
Clipboard - A4 - Black. Contact:
440 657
Golf bag and two drivers.
Contact: Nigel on 460 545
Electric golf trolley, needs
slight repair to one of wheels,
complete with battery. Contact:
Nigel on 460 545
Assorted home phones, including
cordless phone with alarm clock
/ radio. Contact: Nigel on 460
545
Leather laptop case. Contact:
440 657
Pair of PC speakers. Contact:
440 657
A4 lever arch files - blue 65mm. Contact: 440 657
A4 ring binders - blue - 25mm.
Contact: 440 657
Watson portable television with
remote control. Contact: Nigel
on 460 545
Aiwa record turntable, hardly
used. Needs to be connected to
amplifier and speakers. Contact:
Alan 07769 680 938
4 wine demijohns with airlocks
etc. Contact: Cynthia on 420
605
Lampshade for standard lamp,
height 42cm, bottom diameter
52cm, top diameter, 26cm.
Contact: Ken 460 516
Various bits and bobs filling up
my outdoor shed if you want
to come and pick them up.
Contact: 460 636
Exercise Bike. Contact: 420 839
Pine framed cork pinboard, 61 x
92cm. Contact: 430218
Four Tensa barrier crowd control
posts. Black with red retracting
band. In need of a little TLC.
Contact: 440 657
Plants/Garden
Scarborough lilies: House plants,
small bulbs, potted and ready
to grow on, produce spikes
of coral red flowers from July
to September. In this case I
wouldn’t mind if people want
to take these to sell on to raise
money for good causes, eg.
Scouts, Guides, etc.
Large Money Plant needs a
bigger home or community
venue and a bit more TLC!
Contact: Andi on 430 255
Greenhouse glass, various sizes.
Contact: Jim 420 836
Petrol-driven lawn mower.
Contact: 460 636
Car/Bike
Man’s bike, three-speed hub
gears, old but everything works.
Contact: Ian on 450 618.
Thule roof box, model Polar 100.
Contact: 430218
Ladies bike. Good overall
condition but needs two new
tires through lack of use.
Contact: Fiona on 07789 903
127
2 brand-new Land Rover
paintwork touch-up kits - colour
is Rioja Red. Contact: 07554 644
993 (evenings)
Childrens’
Children’s desk/easel – moulded
plastic (make is ‘smoby’).
Contact: Sarah on 430 138
2 children’s sledges. Contact:
440 657
Pink ‘KINX’ girls bike 6 - 13 year
old. Heart-shaped adjustable
saddle, 6 speed, good brakes,
tires as new, suspension good.
handles 31 inches from ground,
seat 24 inches from ground,
16.5 inch wheels. Collect from:
Muirdrochwood Farm, Dalry.
Contact: 460 517
Girls bike, suit age 4/6. Purple
and in good condition. Contact:
Fiona 07789 903 127
Pair of children’s Clarks sandals
in size 2, light brown. Contact:
430 004
DIY/Home Fittings
Pedestal hand basin and close
coupled WC both in Champagne
colour. Contact: 440 657
Central Heating Radiator
2100mm x 600mm. Contact:
420 839
Calor Gas Cooker, 4 hobs and
oven (never used). Contact: 420
839
Plain bathroom mirror, with
holes and wall fixings, never
been used, 45 x 60cm. Contact:
430218
“I got rid of all my
plants, got some curtain
poles, and also gave
some things to the
Guides!”
Selection of Double Glazed units
from our old windows. Will need
frames made, but might suit a
carpenter with a chilly house.
Contact: Andi on 430 255
14 New Cement wallhead
coping stones each 900mm long.
Contact: Alan on 07769 680 938
WANTED
Any old/spare buttons, zips,
buckles, fastenings, fabric,
curtains, etc. for recycling into
bags. Contact: Glenkens Guides
on 430 393
Air Compressor, chainsaws or
chainsaw parts, any condition,
working or not. Contact: Gareth
460 661.
Kayak/canoe. Contact: Sean
Paul on 07765 888 662
Glenkens Gazette
page 5
sponsored by
Over the next few issues we will look at the government’s new energysaving scheme, the Green Deal. In this issue is a general overview, and
following issues will focus on specific energy-saving measures.
Chief secretary to
the Treasury Danny
Alexander has announced
the approval of £200m to
be used as an incentive
for the public to pick up
the Green Deal scheme
when it is available for
homeowners in October
2012.
The Energy Act 2011 includes
provisions for the new ‘Green
Deal’, which intends to reduce
carbon emissions cost effectively
by “revolutionising” the energy
efficiency of British properties.
At a local level, the Green Deal
will enable many households
and businesses to improve
the energy efficiency of their
properties so less energy is
consumed and less money is
wasted.
From October this year,
participating energy utility
companies and accredited
retailers such as Tesco, B&Q
and Marks & Spencer will
provide customers across the
UK with quality-assured work
to their homes, businesses and
community spaces for no upfront
cost, and without loans or
advance finance.
The full cost of the
measures will be
recovered through
instalments on the
energy bill over several
years, and because
the Green Deal is not
a personal loan or
an advance payment
scheme, there is no
obligation to continue
paying the instalments if
you move house.
Suitability for the scheme will be
assessed on a simple calculation,
known as the ‘golden rule’ of
the Green Deal - the predicted
savings from the energy
efficiency improvements to your
property must equal or exceed
the cost of installation.
So keep this date in mind, and
read in the next few issues of
the Gazette what you can do to
make your home more energy
efficient so you can make the
most of the Green Deal when it
becomes available.
For further information,
either contact the Department
of Energy & Climate Change
(DECC) on 0300 060 4000,
correspondence@decc.gsi.
gov.uk or www.decc.gov.uk,
or visit www.green-dealguide.co.uk
Reader’s
Green Idea:
Louise McClure of
Dalmellington has suggested:
“Instead of throwing away
tatties which are past their
best, why not plant them
and get a nice wee crop!
“Also, when planting up
your garden, save money
by planting hardy native
perennials which come up
year on year; you will also
create a fantastic habitat for
wildlife.”
Diamond Jubilee
rather than abroad,
RNLI Evening country
butmany then ran into difficulties
The Glenkens branch
of the Royal National
Lifeboat Institution (RNLI)
is holding its annual
fundraising evening on
Thursday 24 May in Dalry
Town Hall.
The theme of ‘Life on the Ocean
Wave’ is particularly suited to this
year with the rise in ‘staycation’
tourism having led to one of the
busiest years on record for the
crews of the 45 RNLI stations
around Scotland’s coastline.
Last year many people opted
for a holiday by the sea in this
in the water and had to be
rescued by the RNLI. According
to new figures 2011 was the
sixth busiest year on record since
the charity was founded in 1824.
The Lifeboats receive no
Government money but rely
instead on voluntary donations to
meet the cost of maintaining its
24 hour search & rescue service.
Residents of the Glenkens have
always been generous supporters
of the RNLI and with more than
800 people rescued by Scotland’s
lifeboats last year it is gratifying
to know the money is going to
good use.
Plans to celebrate the
Queen’s Diamond Jubilee
are in place for the
residents of Dalry.
A beacon will be lit on Mulloch Hill
on Monday 4 June to join other
beacons up and down the country
and then a village-wide ‘street
party’ is to be held on Tuesday 5
June on the school playing fields.
Open to all residents there
will also be a Fancy Dress
Competition, a Best Decorated
House or Garden competition and
a Children’s Art Competition.
Glenkens Gazette
page 6
Carsphairn
Burns Supper
The Burns season got
under way this year
with Carsphairn hosting
their 43rd Annual
Burns Supper on
Thursday 19 January.
The Top Table had a distinctly
local flavour – taking part were
two local farmers, our minister,
our shopkeeper, our present
school teacher, and our previous
school teacher! Along with
our only visiting artist, Mark
Laird from Gatehouse, they
entertained a packed Lagwyne
Hall and were much appreciated
by the knowledgeable audience.
The haggis was piped in by
Andy McCartney, a regular and
welcome visitor, and the evening
was chaired by Robert McTurk.
Jimmy Wallace was invited
to address the haggis, David
Bartholomew gave the Selkirk
Grace and this was followed by
the traditional meal of haggis,
neeps ‘n tatties prepared by
the Committee of Lagwyne
Hall, and, in the tradition of
Carsphairn, served by the male
committee members.
Mark Laird outlined Rabbie
Burns’ complex lifestyle with an
intuitive mix of anecdotes and
quotes from the Bard.
Two songs were performed by
our own Chris Szafran and much
enjoyed by those attending.
After the interval, Walker
McKenna proposed a Toast to
the Lassies. His ‘toast’ involved
much hilarity and audience
involvement...!
Robert McTurk gave a fiery
rendition of ‘The Twa Dugs’ and
the audience really appreciated
hearing one of the more rarely
recited poems of Robert Burns.
This was followed by Margaret
Heuchan, in excellent form,
replying on behalf of the Lassies.
Margaret’s reply
focussed on several of
the local gentlemen,
comparing them to the
Bard (or not) as the
case may be!
The evening was rounded off
with some community singing
accompanied by Margaret
Sloan, a vote of thanks to all the
artistes from David Gibbon, and
Auld Lang Syne.
Dalry School Burns Supper
On Friday 27 January
P4-7 at Dalry
School organised
a traditional Burns
Supper.
FHB Fencing
Dalry
Domestic and
Agricultural
Fencing
01644 430 495 (Peter)
or 07767 795 498
(Jonathan)
The event was held in the
evening and over 100 people
- parents, families, friends and
members of the community came along to celebrate the life
of our National Bard.
The evening was a great
success, with everyone enjoying
a number of traditional Scottish
ceildh dances.
This was greatly due to the
tremendous help from all of the
people involved, and the school
would like to thank everyone
who made this such a wonderful
event.
Glenkens Gazette
page 7
CARSPHAIRN.ORG
GOES LIVE
Carsphairn Community now has a
new dedicated website.
This has been set up by the Community Council
and will act as a platform for providing information
for both locals and visitors.
Content includes contact lists for local groups and
information on essential services.
There are photographs of the area to show off
the beautiful scenery and facilities are available
for advertisers to encourage visitors to come to
Carsphairn.
The Minutes of the Community Council meetings
are there to read, along with other reports of
relevance.
If, when you read this, you have something you
want to be included on the website, please contact
the administrator by email at webmaster@carsph
airn.org
It is hoped that all the local groups will keep in
touch to advertise events and report on meetings
which affect the community.
Log on now to see what’s happening in
Carsphairn at www.carsphairn.org
PANCAKE
PROCEEDS
6 – 8 August: ‘Room
For short-hand we call
our project Watson Birds. 13’ Young Persons Art
Our logo comprises three birds
with direct links to Donald and
Jeff Watson, and also to Dalry:
The Golden Eagle, the Hen
Harrier and the Swift.
We are delighted to hear that the
Dalry Town Hall Committee has
decided to remove the netting
to allow the swifts to nest there;
what a fitting link with our
developing Dalry Bird Town.
Upcoming events:
Saturday 21 April - In
Quest of the Golden Eagle:
Celebrating Jeff Watson’s work
on the biology and conservation
of this magnificent bird. In Dalry
Town Hall from 10.30am to
4pm there will be exhibition of
Jeff’s photos; at 2pm a Talk on
Galloway’s Golden Eagles; and
at 2.30pm a film will be shown In the Company of Eagles.
19-20 May: Scottish Bird
Fair. This takes place in
Hopetoun, Edinburgh. Visit our
stand, as well as many others,
at Scotland’s visit ever bird fair.
Workshop. Visiting artists will
work with children to explore
creativity. Participants can book
for one, two or three days.
Bookings advised contact Sarah
see below.
21-23 September: Dalry
Bird Festival. A weekend of
The fifteenth pancake
lunch held in New
Galloway Town Hall
was once again a great
success.
Organised by Balmaclellan
& Kells Guild, in excess of
60 people attended to enjoy
pancakes. The £425 raised at
the Pancake Lunch was donated
to the British Heart Foundation.
events for one and all centred on
Dalry Town Hall. More
details later.
Our web site is
currently under
construction - see
www.watsonbirds.org.
It will contain
information about the
project, about Donald
and Jeff Watson,
events, the archive
and links to related
activities in Galloway.
Contacts:
Roger Crofts roger@watsonbirds.org Terramundi Theatre Company visited Kells
school and performed Tam O’Shanter using
or 07803 595 267
shadow puppets. Primary 6/7 then were
and Sarah Keast given the opportunity to make their own
sarah@watsonbirds.org
puppets in a workshop then perform their
or 01644 430457 or
short plays to the rest of the school.
07716 170871.
Glenkens Gazette
page 8
ON THE BUS WITH CATSTRAND COURSE
On Wednesday 29
February six drivers
attended a Midas
Training Course run
by Jon Nimmo at the
Catstrand.
This was the theory part of the
course, lasting about two hours,
after which Jon takes each
individual out in the mini bus
to assess that person’s driving
and for them to familiarise
themselves with the vehicle.
We already have two more
people who would like to receive
training, and as the Glenkens
Transport Initiative (GTI) gets
busier and busier, more is the
demand for volunteer drivers
– please ring Jon (01644 420
247) or Keith (01644 450 201) if
you are interested.
EXTRA BUS NEEDED
The demand for seats on recent
trips has meant that we had to
put an extra trip on to Glasgow
for the Hobbycraft exhibition,
and on Monday 16 April both
vehicles will be taking people to
Dumfries House – you need to
book tickets as soon as tickets
are on sale to ensure your seats!
PROGRAMME OF TRIPS
To help you plan your summer
we have produced a programme
of trips for the next few months;
please note the following dates:
Thursday 10 May: Afternoon trip
to New Abbey, Carsethorn and
Kippford (time for a meal if you
wish)
Monday 21 May: Loch Lomond
Sunday 10 June: Appleby Horse
Fair
Monday 9 July: Kirkcolm, The
Agnew Monument and Corsewall
Lighthouse.
Monday 30 July: Ayr
Saturday 26 August: Floors
Castle, Kelso.
Monday 17 September: Royal
Yacht Britannia
Other trips will be added
including another visit to
Braehead from where you can
catch the ferry down the Clyde,
Houghton Hall Garden Centre,
Carlisle and a visit to Lowther
Castle and Gardens – see local
posters and website for updates.
Let us hope for some good
weather to enjoy visiting a
variety of places – any more
ideas please let me know.
Keith Cooper, GTI Administrator
Carsphairn Heritage
Exhibition
The Carsphairn Heritage
Group 2012 Exhibition,
at the Carsphairn
Heritage Centre, will be
titled ‘An Officer and a
Gentleman: The Life of
John Clark Kennedy’.
Our exhibition celebrates the
long and full life of John Clark
Kennedy. He was an officer in
the 12th Lancers, and a soldier
who fought with distinction in
Family
and friends
coming to stay?
Short of space?
World War II followed by
dedicated service in some
of the post-war hotspots
throughout the world.
In his later life, for over forty
years at his home at Knockgray
in Carsphairn, he had many
diverse interests all linked by his
love of the countryside and his
heritage. He generously shared
his Clark Kennedy history for two
exhibitions in 2004 and 2005.
Now, for the first time, we have
been given the opportunity to
fully understand not only what
an officer and a gentleman he
was, but to realise what a huge
contribution he
made to our
community.
The exhibition
opens on Good
Friday (6 April) and is open
throughout April and May on
weekends and Bank Holidays,
and thereafter every day except
Wednesdays until the end of
September.
For more information call
Carsphairn Heritage Centre
on 01644 460 653 (after
Friday 6 April) or visit our
new website www.carsphairn
heritage.org
THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE
GLENKENS
MEDICAL PRACTICE
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
Cosy country cottage
available (sleeps 4)
FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES
OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY
Call Fiona on
01644 420 227
or 07789 903127
VETERINARY SURGERY
OAKWELL ROAD
CASTLE DOUGLAS
01556 502263
General Medical &
Dispensing Services
The Surgery
High Street
New Galloway
FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL
01644 420234
Glenkens Gazette
page 9
It is now over a
year since Joanna
Sinclair and Stewart
Macpherson took over
the Clachan Inn. In
this article, Joanna
describes their first 12
months in Dalry.
We had lived and
worked in Glasgow for
several years before
moving to Dalry, so
the change of scenery
was drastic. Instead of
the noise of sirens and
street-sweepers, we
wake up to the sounds
of animal noises... and
Jimmy Dixon going for
his morning messages!
On the 28th of December 2011
Although the pace is
Stewart and I celebrated our first
somewhat slower here,
year at The Clachan Inn.
we wouldn’t change it
On that day, we both agreed that
for the world and have
the last 12 months had been the
discovered a strong
most challenging and rewarding
and wonderful sense of
days of our lives, and that we
community for the first
would not have survived without
time in our lives.
the support and friendship of the
We had both worked in
Glenkens locals.
offices before moving
Without a doubt, there have been
to Dalry; I was an
hard times since we began our
organiser for a teachers’ trade
tenancy in December 2010, but
union and Stewart worked as an
this is entirely overshadowed by
administrator for the Procurator
the huge pride we share in how
Fiscal. Neither of us took much
popular The Clachan Inn has
satisfaction in our careers, so we
become.
felt a change was
needed.
We had originally
looked at hotels
in Kirkcudbright,
�����������������������������������������������������
but once we
shown The
• Pensions • Savings • Investments were
Clachan we knew
• Retirement Options
it was for us.
I think I will
• Inheritance Tax Planning
always be
• Life Assurance
overwhelmed by
• Income & Critical Illness
the atmosphere
and look of the
Protection
bar, lounge and
• Mortgages • Home Insurance
bothy.
Stewart and
I had never
worked in bars
before, so the
Tel: 01671 403080 Fax:- 01671 402549
decision to take
over the lease of
Email: brian.edgar@marrfinancial.co.uk
The Clachan was
Web: www.marrfinancial.co.uk
both scary and
61 Victoria Street
exhilarating.
NEWTON STEWART
We were a little
DG8 6NL
naive to start,
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on
Stewart had
your mortgage.
never even
For mortgages we can be paid by commission or a fee of usually £300 or a combination of
both. For Home Insurance we usually offer products from a limited panel of providers.
started a fire
Free Confidential
Initial Consultation
Joanna and Stewart, managers at the Clachan Inn
A YEAR IN THE GLENKENS
before our time here, and then
there were three to light every
morning!
That said, one year on, Stewart
still gets ‘constructive feedback’
from the locals about his firelighting skills.
Now into 2012, Stewart and I are
taking stock of what we can build
on this year. The restaurant has
been a big hit since it opened and
we will be expanding the menu in
the coming weeks to include game
and various other local produce.
We are organising more events in
the bar, and have already had live
folk and jazz music over the last
few weeks.
The Clachan Inn deserves
to be a gem in the area’s
crown, and we have
worked tirelessly to
establish it as the heart
of the community once
more.
We are still humbled by the
support and kindness from the
Glenkens community. We run the
hotel to the best of our abilities,
but it is the locals who make The
Clachan Inn. The Glenkens is our
community and The Clachan is its
pub.
Glenkens Gazette
page 10
CatStrand Highlights
You’ll find plenty at
the CatStrand to put a
Spring in your step for
April and May: From folk
to film to a puppet show
that will tickle your
funnybone, we have
produced a packed-full
programme of Easter
entertainment to treat
you to this season.
Find some Easter holiday humour
at our showing of Puss in Boots
on Wednesday 4 April. Shrek’s
feisty feline hatches a plan to
steal the famous golden egglaying goose and save the world
from two murderous outlaws
known as Jack and Jill. (Tickets
£5/4, Cert U, 2pm showing.)
Or if storytelling through song
is music to your ears, come
along to Rachel Sermanni on
Friday 6 April. She’s a straightup storyteller with a voice to
blow all others clean out of the
water. 19-year-old Scottish
singer-songwriter Rachel packs
an almighty punch with her
earthy folk melodies and dextrous
fingerpicking.
A few more unusual visitors will be
at the CatStrand on the Thursday
12 April including Big, Little and
Dog with their show, Funnybones.
This puppet production finds fun,
frights and friendship through
song and illustrated adventure.
Spooky houses, dancing clocks,
dinosaurs and skeleton pets all
make an appearance as well as
that darned Black Cat.
There is even more brightening
up our brochure for the month of
May as Fabulous Forces come into
play on the 1st. In association
with Dumfries & Galloway Science
Festival, those aged over eight
can explore with experiments and
suss science surprises at the fun
demonstration with findings that
will surprise and delight.
Science stays on the agenda for
the Wednesday 25 April as Robin
Ince performs his Fringe Festival
stand-up show, “Happiness
Through Science.” His comic
exploration of the human condition
WELCOME TO THE GLENKENS
We would like to welcome Gemma and Rebecca,
the CatStrand’s newest staff members, to the
Glenkens.
Gemma Graham is the new Reception/Retail Co-ordinator,
and Rebecca Goldsmith is taking up the post of Youth Arts Coordinator. The youth post is aimed at developing arts with young
people in the Glenkens and the programme, funded by the
Holywood Trust, will run for three years.
New Galloway
Golf Club
Founded 1902
www.nggc.co.uk
v 01644 420737 v
Buggies now available for hire
VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME
Rachel Sermanni
ponders if you can be happy and
rational at the same time. Robin’s
show will leave you laughing as
he orienteers through the craggy
landscape of evolution whilst
plumbing the depths of his own
murky consciousness.
These are just a few of the
highlights. Make sure you
pick up an Events Guide
and call 01644 420 374 or
visit www.catstrand.com for
tickets.
Guide Thank You
The Guides would like to thank all
those who have donated materials
for their Bonanza Bags project.
They now have lots of wonderful materials
and the project - making bags from recycled
materials to raise funds for their own activities
as well as to donate towards the SSPCC
‘Children First’ charity - is well underway.
T. H. CARSON
BUTCHERS
The Clog & Shoe
Workshop
unique handmade footwear
We deliver
every Thursday
open 10am - 5pm weekdays
Easter Mon to 31st October
please ring to arrange a visit at
other times
Tel: 01644 420 465
THE CROSS, MILL ST, DALBEATTIE
visit our new online shop at
See us at Dalry Farmers
Market on 2nd Sat each month.
Give us a call,
no order too small!
01556 610 384
www.clogandshoe.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 11
Cross Country Championships Want a cycle ride?
The Dumfries &
Galloway Regional Cross
Country Secondary
Schools Championships
2012 were held at
Wigtown Show Ground
at Bladnoch, near
Wigtown.
Last year they were cancelled
twice because of the waterlogged
ground, but this year they went
ahead on time.
Dalry Secondary School sent a
team of 14 pupils, seven boys and
seven girls. In very competitive
and large fields of quality runners
(up to 60 in some races), Dalry
Secondary School pupils did
very well. All our runners are to
be commended for their effort,
preparation and commitment.
Those who did particularly well
on the day were: Grace Mckie in
S1 Girls – 5th; Kirsten Stalker
in S4 girls – 7th; Georgina Smith
in S2 Girls – 10th and Alexander
McKenna in S3 boys – 10th.
Come and join us!
Glenkens Bike Club will offer
short ‘led-rides’ for parents and
their children, once a month
from April to September.
To register interest or leave a
question to be answered please
leave your contact details at
The CatStrand, New Galloway
(01644 420 374).
From the ‘Bikeability’ Team
Spalding
Bowling Club
Centenary Year
1912 - 2012
There will be a Grand
Opening of the Green on
Saturday 14 April at 2pm.
There will be a Special Guest
of Honour, and everyone is
welcome to come and join in
the special celebrations.
ALEX
FERGUSSON
MSP
FOR
GALLOWAY &
WEST DUMFRIES
Holds regular advice surgeries at:
Constituency Office, New Market
Street, Castle Douglas, DG7 1HY
on the 2nd Friday of every month from 5pm
Telephone free on 0800 028 7260
for an appointment or to make
any alternative arrangement.
You can visit Alex’s website at:
www.alexfergusson.org.uk
or contact him by e-mail at:
alex.fergusson.msp@scottish.parliament.uk
NOW FULLY OPEN FOR THE SEASON
Food Served All Day
We Offer a Full Menu 12pm until 9pm Daily
- Look Out For Our Special Offers Credit Crunch Lunch – Mon to Sat, 12–3pm, £3.95
£2 Tuesday – 5-9pm
Select from our ‘Special Menu’ and enjoy a
starter, main and pudding for only £2 each
(either have a one, two or three- course meal)
Curry Night – Wednesday night is Curry Night
at the Lochinvar! Choose from four different
curries - £6.95
Fish Friday – choose from traditional Fish & Chips,
Fish Pie or our weekly fish specials - £6.95
Sunday Carvery – served from 12–3pm, from £7.95
Take away menu available
We cater for functions and parties.
St. John’s Town of Dalry
Tel: 01644 430 107
www.lochinvarhotel.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 12
New Dog Show Well Won
This year’s Carsphairn Show, on
Saturday 2 June, is to have a new
attraction – an open exemption dog
show.
The show will be open to all dogs from the Glenkens
and beyond and is to have classes for pedigree and
non-pedigree dogs, from puppies to veterans, as well
as fun classes including The Best Six Legs and Fancy
Dress.
Entries will be taken on the day from 12 noon and
judging will commence at 2.30pm.
Classes will be judged by Mr Kevin Burke (Markath)
who has judged throughout the UK including Crufts,
and rosettes will be awarded to 4th place and also
for Best in Show and Reserve Best in Show.
Entries will cost £1.50 for the first class per dog
with subsequent entries £1 per dog.
Entry forms will be available to download from the
new Carsphairn website - www.carsphairn.org - for
you to complete and bring with you or available at
the showground on the day.
It is hoped people from the Glenkens will come
along to the Show and have some fun with their
pooches and, if it is successful, that this will become
an annual event.
Isobel Cuthbertson of Dalry
(pictured below) won a record
number of trophies last year.
In 2011 she won the three cups, three salvers
and a certificate, for various activities and
achievements. Isobel won the cups for baking
and preserves at local flower and agricultural
shows - she has shown at Carsphairn show for
40 years.
As president
of Dalry WRI,
Isobel last
year won their
points salver
trophy. She was
also presented
with her loyalty
certificate
for being a
member for 46
years.
Isobel, who
also judges
blackface
sheepis looking
forward to
this summer’s
shows!
THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL
New Galloway
Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP
Solicitors and Estate Agents
Selling properties across
Dumfries & Galloway
01556 503744
www.ggblaw.co.uk
All legal advice
Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie
Kirkcudbright and Dumfries
Open 7 Days
Beautiful Riverside Location
MEALS SERVED
12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm
SUNDAY LUNCH CARVERY
bed and breakfast
en suite accommodation
01644 420 211
mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk
ww.kenbridgehotel.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
Acoustic Success
The first Glenkens Acoustic
Session, held on Sunday
26 February was a huge
success with a turnout of
around 60 people over the
course of the afternoon.
With a great array of musicians,
ranging from guitars to a ukulele,
a mandalin to a boran, lots of
lovely vocals, and even a fiddle,
the listeners were entranced
and many stayed from 2pm all
page 13
the way to almost 6pm. With
an overrun of nearly two hours,
people must have been enjoying
themselves, including the
wonderful CatStrand volunteers
who had a very busy Sunday
afternoon!
So come along for some coffee or
a beer, some yummy CatStrand
cake, and some really good local
music on Sunday 29 April, 27
May, and the last Sunday of each
month thereafter.
Local Jazz Night
The Lochinvar Hotel will be hosting two
evenings of top class traditional jazz on
Friday 20 and Saturday 21 April with John
Fenner and the Mike Daley All Stars.
Local musician John Fenner has assembled an all
star band for the occasion. The ‘All Stars’ have a
wealth of international experience and between
them have played along side some of the most
recognised names in world jazz, such as Acker Bilk,
Ruby Braff, Martin Taylor, Louis Armstrong, Wild Bill
Davidson and Bud Freeman. John was a member of
the Kenny Ball band for 17 years.
The band is made up of Mike Daley on cornet,
Tommy Evans on double bass, Duncan Nairn on
clarinet and vocals, Jack Murray on trombone and
vocals and of course John Fenner on guitar (and
maybe the banjo).
The evenings will be run on an informal Jazz Café
type atmosphere and will be accompanied by a
light buffet supper during the interval. The events
are by ticket only, in advance, and tickets are
£12.50 from the Lochinvar Hotel (01644 430107).
Scots Concert
On Monday 20 February Kells
students, P4-7, put on a short concert
for parents and members of the local
community at the Cross Keys in New
Galloway.
The pupils recited a variety of Scots poetry, P4/5
played a number of well known tunes on their
ukuleles, some pupils sang songs, plus the whole
choir performed ‘Get on Board’ and ‘Any Dream
Will Do.’
Music Festival
Dalry Secondary School music students
have again reached for the skies at the
Galloway Music Festival and proved
themselves worthy.
These early teenage years are often the time when
students become less inclined to push themselves
forward and enter competitive events, but this year
many of our pupils took part in ensemble, duet
and solo classes and worked hard to improve their
performances, many gaining high marks and high
praise from the adjudicators.
It is hard work but the reward is that these
pupils are becoming successful learners, effective
contributors and confident individuals. They are a
credit to our school.
Glenkens Gazette
page 14
AGNES COOKS…
RHUBARB
In this issue, our very
own award-winning cook,
Agnes Holden, will give us
some tips on what to do
with all that rhubarb in our
gardens his summer...
There are lots of recipes both
sweet and savoury for this
versatile fruit (although to be
accurate it is actually a stem
vegetable). I have decided
to offer one of each as many
people are faced with a glut of
rhubarb and the chutney recipe
should at least help with some
of the excess! They both contain
ginger (in different forms) but I
think that rhubarb and ginger is
a combination hard to beat.
Rhubarb and Stem Ginger Tart
This recipe uses preserved stem
ginger which can be found in
most supermarkets but maybe,
like me, you have some lurking
at the back of the fridge from
Christmas! I am giving the
recipe for the pastry but a
bought tart base would be fine.
Pastry
200g (8oz) plain flour
140g (5oz) butter
2 teaspoons ground ginger
3-4 tablespoons of preserved
stem ginger syrup
Filling
350g (12oz) rhubarb cut into
2.5cm (1in) lengths
3 pieces of preserved stem
ginger, sliced
2 eggs, separated
50ml (3fl oz) double
cream
Put the ground ginger and
flour into a bowl and mix
evenly, add the butter and rub
it in finely. Pour in the ginger
syrup and mix to form firm
dough. (Alternatively, put the
flour, ginger and butter into a
processor and pulse until fine.
Add the syrup and pulse until it
forms a stiff dough).
Roll the dough out thinly and
line a 23cm / 9in diameter loose
bottomed tart tin. Chill for at
least 40 mins.
Bake the pastry case blind in a
preheated oven (200C / gas 6)
for 10 – 15 mins.
For the filling put half the sugar
into a pan with 1 tablespoon
of water. Bring to the boil and
stir until the sugar is dissolved.
Add the rhubarb and cook very
gently for 5 – 10 mins until
rhubarb is just cooked.
Drain the rhubarb but keep the
juice it was cooked in. Arrange
the rhubarb and sliced ginger
in the pastry case. Put the egg
yolks, remaining sugar and
cream in a bowl and whisk until
thick then stir in the reserved
cooking juices.
Whisk the egg whites in a bowl
until stiff and fold into the cream
mixture. Pour into the pastry
case and bake for 30 – 40 mins
when it should be just set.
Dust with icing sugar. Delicious
served hot or cold with some
crème fraiche to which a few
T: 01644 460 670
Dog Training & Dog
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�� Dalry Town Hall
D Eric Broadhurst (NDOA Advanced Instructor)
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teaspoons of the preserved stem
ginger syrup have been added.
Rhubarb, Ginger and Orange
Chutney
1 large onion, chopped
1kg (just over 2 lb) rhubarb
– cut into approx 2.5cm (1in)
lengths
150g (5oz) sultanas
300ml (1/2 pt) cider vinegar
400g (14oz) soft brown sugar
2 tablespoons of freshly grated
ginger
Zest of one large orange
2 whole cloves
Piece of cinnamon stick
Put everything (except the
rhubarb – it’s added later to help
retain its colour and shape) into
a large pan and heat gently,
stirring until sugar is dissolved.
Bring to the boil and simmer
for about 20 – 30 mins until the
syrup has thickened. Add the
rhubarb and continue cooking,
stirring gently from time to time
until the rhubarb is soft (about
15mins) but still retains its
shape. Take the pan off the heat
and cool for 15mins. Stir gently
to distribute the fruit and spoon
into warm, sterilised jars. Store
the chutney in a cool, dark place
for about one month before
using. It will keep for a year.
Delicious with all game
(particularly duck) and with cold
meats.
Glenkens Gazette
page 15
STEWARTRY CAMERA CLUB
Glenkens
The Stewartry Camera Club’s ‘Abstract
Photo Group Competition’ was judged by Alwyn Howes.
Alwyn is a Stewartry photographer and club member who
has been very successful in previous years’ competitions.
Well qualified to carry out the judging, he commended the
creative thought that had been put into the competition
entries.
It might be that you are interested in
Glenkens successes in Group 1 were Mary McIlvenna who
starting photography; you may be a
was second with ‘Life Within’ and fifth with ‘Shades of
professional photographer; you may be
Grey’ that also won Best Mono. John Houfe with ‘Reeds’
an amateur photographer; you may like won Best Landscape. In Group
looking at other people’s images; or you 2, Karen Kubran was third with
may just like the company of like-minded ‘Springtime’.
people.
The Club thanks Alwyn for the
If you have any interest at all
time and effort put into what
please send your contact details to
was considered a very fair and
jodie@catstrand.com. Should there be
encouraging judging.
sufficient interest, a meeting will be
For further information contact
called to discuss what people would like
Mary McIlvenna 01644 420613 or
and how to progress the group.
John Smith 01557 332043
Life Within by Mary McIlvenna
A suggestion has been made
that a photography group is
established in the Glenkens.
Gazette ‘Photo of the Issue’ Website Launch
We’ve had lots of wonderful photos of the
Glenkens submitted for our first ‘Photo of the
Issue’ competition - thank you everyone who
submitted photos. Keep them coming!
Hercules over Woodhall Loch by Iain Davidson
After much deliberation, the person chosen as the winner of a
meal for two at the Ken Bridge Sunday carvery is Iain Davidson
from Dalry with his dramatic photo of a Hercules flying low over
Woodhall Loch.
The prize for next issue’s winner will be a meal for two at the
Clachan Inn in Dalry. You can either drop your photos into the
CatStrand, or email them to me at glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk.
Award-winning local
photographer, Phil
McMenemy, has just
launched his new
website.
“I do hope you can find a wee
bit of time to have a look at and
enjoy my images – I would love
to hear back from you with any
thoughts or comments,” says Phil
Most of Phil’s photographs are of
Galloway, including many lovely
Glenkens images. Phil goes on to
say: “Please feel free to drop by
the ‘Gallery at Laurieston’ where
a warm welcome is guaranteed,
music will be playing and you
might also be offered a cuppa!”
Phil’s new website is:
www.pmcphotography.co.uk
phil mcmenemy
Award Winning
Photography
Galloway Photographic Collective
A number of Galloway fine art photographers,
mainly from the Glenkens, have formed the
Galloway Photographic Collective.
The group will launch the project on the weekend of 31 March at the
CatStrand. Photographers include Morag Paterson and Ted Leeming,
Phil McMenemy, Alan Wright and Ian Biggar.
The Gallery at Laurieston
Open every Sunday or contact
Phil to arrange a private viewing
and a cuppa.
The place for images of
glorious Galloway!
01644 450 235
www.pmcphotography.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 16
Kells Parish War Memorial (Part II)
I had fully intended to submit
an article on the Dalry War
Memorial for this issue but I
have had several observations
and requests for information
about the article in the last
issue so I thought I needed to
revisit the topic with further
information.
Mike Brown mentioned that since I had not
given Adam Byers’s regiment he had checked
the memorial himself and found that Adam
was among a number who had served in the
Cameronians. He wondered why this should
be so.
As Dumfries and Galloway had long been
the recruiting territory of the Kings Own
Scottish Borderers, the fact that Adam Byers
and a number of other men from New
Galloway chose to enlist in the Cameronians
deserves an explanation. I can do no better
than repeat an item written by a fellow
military researcher (Stuart Wilson, formerly
of Auchencairn).
One of the main reasons for the relatively
low KOSB enlistment in the New Galloway
area was localised political fall-out from
the decision not to include the Kells as one
of the companies in the newly formed 5th
KOSB (TF) in 1908.
New Galloway had always been a strong
supporter of the Galloway Rifle Volunteers
(‘E’ Coy.) and so expected to be represented
in the new set-up. However, once they
realised that they were being overlooked
there was a great deal of ill-feeling towards
the 5th Battalion and so very few men from
the area ended up with the KOSB.
New Galloway’s antipathy towards the new
set-up is expressed more fully by
Ian Devlin in Albanich:
“With a sufficiency of
recruits within the Dumfries
and Galloway region, it was
considered that ‘E’ Company,
New Galloway... was drawn from
too remote an area and it was
with some reluctance that this
Company was disbanded. It was
to be many a long day before
the men of New Galloway and
the Glenkens were to forgive
their home Regiment, the
KOSB, for their ingratitude to
a Company who had produced
many of the Regiments finest marksmen,
two of the Regiments four Commanding
Officers and their Colour Sergeant, now
Sergeant Major Grierson, who had captured
Commandant Wolmaran and 30 armed men
in South Africa in 1901. From that date
[1908] the men of the Glenkens were to
offer their future services to the Cameron
Highlanders.”
Although omitting the reason which lay
behind it, it is even noted in the official
history of the 5th KOSB that: “... the first
man enlisted in New Galloway went to
the Cameron Highlanders. As soon as he
had been seen swaggering in his kilt down
the High Street of this ancient burgh, nine
or ten of his chums went off to join that
regiment.”
That first man may well have
been William Stewart, also listed
on this memorial.
Thanks to research by Ken Morrison of
Rockcliffe, we know that the men did
not die together but on a variety of dates
throughout the war.
I have placed a copy of Ken’s research notes
on the New Galloway men in the Catstrand.
A photograph of 9 New Galloway
Cameron Highlanders at the front in 1915
was published in a pictorial book of the
Glenkens in 2002.
Each Town and Village set up its own War
Memorial Committee and decided on the
qualification criteria for a name to be entered
on the memorial. Some required a man to
be born there, others that they lived there
at the time of enlistment but often we just
don’t know how they decided who should
be listed, particularly as the minutes of these
committees rarely survive.
We do know that the New Galloway
Committee decided to add the name of
VAD nurse Jane Nodwell. Jane was the
daughter of Samuel and Janet (Lockerbie)
Nodwell of the Cross Keys Hotel and is
buried in Kells churchyard. She died on 19
November 1918 of influenza at Yorkhill War
Hospital, Glasgow.
The Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD)
was a voluntary organisation providing
field nursing services mainly in hospitals.
The organisation was founded in 1909 with
the help of the Red Cross and the Order
of St. John. VAD nurses appear on some
memorials but not others; it depends on the
conditions that the local committee applied.
Barbara Barker has also been in touch. Her
grandfather was Alexander McCubbing,
a master stonemason and one half of the
building firm who built the memorial. I will
let Barbara’s words tell the story…
“His eldest son John, was an apprentice with
the firm until WW1 broke out and he joined
the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders
in January 1915. He is, in fact, the Lance
Corporal John McCubbing whose name in
on the memorial, having been killed at the
Battle of the Somme in August 1916 at the
age of 20.
“He was injured by shrapnel
in the knee and thigh, and
was being helped to safety
by a Private Hunter from
Carsphairn. When he was
injured his helmet had fallen
off, and as he was being lifted
up by Pte Hunter he was shot
again, this time in the head and
died instantly.”
Barbara has also given
information about the
Stewart brothers listed on the
memorial.
You can find this information
with photographs and more
on the Scottish War Memorial
Project at
http://tinyurl.com39u8g8.
If you have information you
would like to share about
anyone on this or any other
local memorial, please contact
Paul Goodwin on
07973 174342 or
Alexander McCubbing; standing in the centre of the photograph
memorials@paulgoodwin.me.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 17
LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN
Still Working on the
Railway
Minister Ernie Marples, who just happened
to be director of a road building business,
and Dr Richard Beeching. In 1950 British
Since, happily, the article in the Railways controlled some 21,000 miles of
track and 6,000 stations, reduced to 12,000
last Gazette on the Glenkens
miles and 2,000 stations by 1975. During the
Railway generated a fair number 1964 election campaign Labour promised to
stop the closures if elected, but of course
of responses we return to it in
later renegued.
this issue.
The railway is central, to the point of tedium
Logan Paterson has pointed out that there
in my view, in Dorothy L Sayer’s Lord
is a video of the train journey from Parton
Peter Wimsey novel, Five Red Herrings
to Kirkcowan on Youtube. Put ‘Madrigada
(1931) in which one of the characters
Eterna’ into the search facility and you
briefly visits High Brig of Dee and New
will be on your way, stopping at most
Galloway, but which is mainly concerned
of the stations en route. There is space
with the Stranraer-Glasgow line. The story
for comments so if you enjoy it and the
was televised some time ago starring Ian
soundtrack by KLF, a group that had local
Carmichael as Wimsey. Some may find the
connections – and even if you don’t! - please author’s obsession with timetables utterly
respond and mention
fascinating but they
Glenkens in order
tax the patience of
Tom Scott reports that his
to make this district
this reader if no
mother served in the ATS
better known.
other...
during World War II. When In John Buchan’s
Tom Scott reports
boarding the train at Parton, Thirty-Nine Steps,
that his mother
served in the
on one occasion, to go south, a story that depends
Auxilliary Territorial
more incredible
the train was so full that she on
Service (ATS;
coincidences than
had to be pushed through
women’s branch of
there are varieties of
the British Army)
the window - a local example weather on a Galloway
during World War II.
Day, Richard
of in-fenestration... Rumour Spring
When boarding the
Hannay, after the
hath it that when Tom was on murder of Scudder,
train at Parton, on
one occasion, to go
Dalry Community Council he decides that Galloway
south, the train was
is the best place to
sometimes inspired ideas of
so full that she had
go to. ‘It was the
defenestration!
to be pushed through
nearest wild part of
the window - a local
Scotland and from the
example of in-fenestration... Rumour hath
look of the map it was not over thick with
it that when Tom was on Dalry Community
population’. He switches from the London
Council he sometimes inspired ideas of
to the Stranraer train at Dumfries. The
defenestration! Tom also kindly reminds us
author was not writing a guide book but it
that the farmhouse at the northern entrance
would appear that the stations where Hannay
to Parton was originally planned to be the
alights to go walkabout before reboarding an
Station Hotel but there was not enough
east-bound train, were inspired by Dromore
demand to make it viable. Speaking of which and Loch Skerrow. He abandons the train at
does anybody live in Parton, a village which
the Stroan Viaduct and later comes across a
seems curiously devoid of inhabitants? The
road bridge beside which is an inn, ‘standing
station was unstaffed from 1951.
golden in the sunset against the brown hills’,
clearly the establishment once known as
It has also been pointed out that it was
The Spalding Arms, now the Kenbridge
Harold Wilson’s Labour Government that
Hotel. There he meets the ‘literary landlord’
actually closed down the line in 1965. The
who has ambitions to write. When Hannay
decision, however, was made under the
remarks that innkeepers should make the
regime of Prime Minister Alec Douglasgreatest story-tellers in the world he is told,
Home following the advice of Transport
‘Not now.
Maybe in the
old days when you had pilgrims and balladmakers and highwaymen and mail-coaches
on the road. But not now. Nothing comes
here but motor-cars full of fat women, who
stop for lunch, and a fisherman or two, and
the shooting tenants in August. There is not
much material to be got out of that’. Perhaps
the pessimism was due to recession in 1930
as now. Dave and Sue Paterson, proprietors
of ‘The Brig’, can perhaps inform us about
how many pilgrims and highwaymen are
among their patrons nowadays.
When the baddies show up in the book
Hannay sends the innkeeper (Dave P. take
note!) on his motorbike to Newton Stewart
to alert the chief constable. He would have
gone faster than any train but the bike
was diagnostic. Slowly but surely, private
transport was outstripping the public variety.
Many folk have challenged my suggestion
that the railway died, in part, due to apathy.
A legend seems to have grown up about
Westminster deliberately severing Galloway
from the rest of the country by cutting
the railway but the facts are that passenger
use was seriously declining and freight was
increasingly moved to roads while rolling
stock and allied services were becoming
evermore dated.
Whether we are discussing a past way of
life, dispossessed Gaels or First Nations
Americans, human beings have a great
capacity for waiting until peoples and
institutions are on the verge of extinction
before belatedly sentimentalizing their loss.
The demise of the railway was a regrettable
disaster in which everyone was, to a greater
or lesser degree, complicit.
Ted Cowan
W BONE
WHB JEEPS
THE GARAGE, DALRY
PETROL & DIESEL SALES
SERVICE & REPAIRS
MOTs, TYRES, BATTERIES
ALL AT COMPETITIVE PRICES
OPEN 8.30AM - 6.00PM (SIX DAYS)
10AM - 6PM SUNDAYS
- FUEL 24 HOURS SHOP • SANDWICH BAR • LOTTERY
Tel: 01644 430208 Fax: 01644 430669
email: jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 18
GLENKENS DIARY...
MARCH
Weekend of 31 March, launch of
Galloway Photography Collective,
CatStrand
Sat 31 March – Wed 30 May,
Exhibition: Galloway Photography
Collective, CatStrand
APRIL
April - November, Giants in the
Forest, CatStrand
Mon 2, Bus Trip - Edinburgh Zoo
Wed 4, Film: Puss in Boots, 2pm,
CatStrand
Thurs 5, Class: PCs, CDs & MP3s,
10am-12noon, CatStrand
Thurs 5, Play it by Ear, toddlers’
music session, 10-11am, CatStrand
Fri 6, Carsphairn Heritage Centre
Exhibition opens - see p8 for opening
days/times
Bowling Green (opposite The Garage)
New Galloway Scout Hut
Thurs 19, James Grant, 7.30pm,
CatStrand
Sun 6, Scout Jumble Sale, 1.30-3pm,
New Galloway Scout Hut
Thurs 19 (for four weeks), Classes:
Digital Photography – First Steps, 10:
30am-12:30pm, CatStrand
Wed 9, Woody Pines, 7.30pm,
CatStrand
Thurs 19 (for four weeks), Classes:
Digital Photography – Next Steps, 1:
30-3:30pm, CatStrand
Fri 20 & Sat 21, Jazz Evenings,
Lochinvar Hotel, see p13
Sat 21, Andy Irvine, 7.30pm,
CatStrand
Thurs 26, Film: Hugo, 7.30pm,
CatStrand
Fri 27, Amy Geddes, 7.30pm,
CatStrand
Sat 28, Workshop: 3D Felt – Bags
& Hats, 10m–4pm, (incl. lunch),
CatStrand
Sun 29, Glenkens Acoustic Sessions,
2-4pm, CatStrand
MAY
Fri 6, Rachel Sermanni, 7.30pm,
CatStrand
Sat 7, Craft Fair, Dalry Town Hall
Thurs 12, Funnybones (Ages 3-7),
2.30pm, CatStrand
Thurs 12, Class: PCs, CDs & MP3s,
10am-12noon, CatStrand
Sat 14, Spalding Bowling Club
Centenary Grand Opening, 2pm, Dalry
CHURCH OF
SCOTLAND
Sundays:
Balmaclellan: 12noon
1st Carsphairn: 10.30am
1st 2nd 3rd 4th, Dalry (Apr):
12noon 1st 2nd 3rd 4th,
Dalry (May): 9am 1st 2nd
3rd 4th, Kells: 10.30am
2nd,3rd 4th 5th
Special Services/
Events:
6 April, 7.30pm: Good
Friday Service, Carsphairn
Church
8 April, 7am: Easter Dawn
Service at Balmaclellan
War Memorial, followed by
breakfast in Balmaclellan
Village Hall
29 April, 10.30am, United
Service with Choir in Kells
church
Tues 1, Dr Ben Craven: Fabulous
Forces (Ages 8+), 7pm, CatStrand
Wed 2, CatStrand Open Stage, 7pm,
CatStrand
Thurs 3, Play it by Ear, toddlers’
music session, 10-11am, CatStrand
Sat 5, Scout Jumble Sale, 2-4pm,
4 May, 7.30pm, Quiz Night,
Dalry Town Hall
17 May, 6.30pm, Ascension
Day Service in Dalry
Church
Communion
Service: 6 May,
12noon, Balmaclellan
Church
SCOTTISH
EPISCOPAL
CHURCH: St
Margaret’s, New Galloway:
Holy Communion 10.30am every Sun & Wed
CATHOLIC
CHURCH
SERVICES:
Gatehouse of Fleet: Sat,
6pm. Kirkcudbright: Sun,
9.30am. Dalbeattie: Sun,
11am
Thurs 10, Bus trip to New Abbey,
Carsethorn & Kippford see p8
Fri 11-Thurs 17, Newton Stewart
Walking Festival, see back page
Thurs 20, Workshop: Freedom & Flow
in Watercolour,10am-4pm, CatStrand
Mon 21, Bus trip to Loch Lomond, see
p8
Thurs 24, Film: The Iron Lady,
7.30pm, CatStrand
Thurs 24, RNLI fundraising eve, Dalry
Town Hall
Fri 25, Robin Ince: Happiness
Through Science, 8pm, CatStrand
Sun 27, Glenkens Acoustic Sessions,
2-4pm, CatStrand
Thurs 31, Chris Larner: An Instinct
For Kindness, 7.30pm, CatStrand
JUNE
Sat 2, Carsphairn Show, opens 8am,
Show Dance 9pm, see back page
Mon 4, Queen’s Diamond Jubilee
Celebrations, Dalry, see p5
Sun 10, Bus trip to Appleby Horse
Fair, see p8
ADVERTISE IN
THE GAZETTE
(per issue)
6cm x 6cm - £31.50 (10% series discount)
1/4 page (9cm w x 13cm h) - £68.25
(25% series discount)
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(25% series discount)
Full Page (18cm w x 27cm h) - £210
(25% series discount)
Call 07727 127 997 TO BOOK
YOUR AD TODAY
USEFUL NUMBERS:
● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000
● Local Police: 0845 600 5701
● Doctor: 01644 420 234
● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24
● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000
Dalry Library
Tue: 2 - 4.30pm
then 5.30 - 7.30pm
Fri: 11:15am - 1:15pm
then 2 - 4.30pm
23 mobile library stops
- to find out where and
when call 430 234
Glenkens Gazette
page 19
APRIL & MAY
REGULAR EVENTS:
The CatStrand
(New Galloway):
Exercise to Music: Mon, 1011am
Guitar Workshops: Mon, 78pm
Play it by Ear: 1st Thurs
every month during term
time, 10-11am
Children’s Dance Class:
Mon during term time, 3.454pm, age 3-7
Carers Coffee & Chat: Tues,
10am-12noon
Teen Spirit: Tues during
term time, 7.30-9.30pm
Taking the First Step in
Computing: Wed, 5.307.30pm
Boxercise: Wed, 7-8pm, £4,
New Galloway Town Hall
Zumba: Wed: 7.30-8.30pm,
New Galloway Town Hall, £4
Gentle Yoga & Relaxation:
Thurs, 10-11.15am
Sing it Out: Thurs, 11.30am
-12.30pm
Pilates: Thurs, 4.15-5.15pm
& 5.30-6.30pm
Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri
each month, 2pm
Family Film Club: 1st Sat
each month, 11am, £5
annual membership
Saturday Art Club: 2nd Sat
each month, 10am–12noon
Catstrand Youth Players:
Sun during term time, 2pm
Glenkens Acoustic
Sessions, last Sunday of the
month, 2-4pm
Glenkens
Community
Centre (Dalry):
Glenkens Playgroup: MonFri, 9.15-11.45am (contact
- Julie 01644 460 687)
Paint & Art: Mon, 1.304.30pm & Wed, 7-9pm
Ballroom & Latin Dance
Class: Mon, 7.15, for more
info call Sam Rushton on 420
672
Good Neighbours Club:
Tues, 2pm
Kickback Martial Arts: Tues
& Thurs, 7-9pm, both adults
& children welcome
Glenkens Mother &
Toddlers: Fri, 1.30-3pm
Thursday Craft Group:
Thurs, 2-4pm
Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm
Guides: Tue during termtime, 6.15pm, contact: Kath
430 281
Various Locations:
Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm,
New Galloway Scout Hut
Mother & Toddlers: Tues,
9.45-11.15am, New Galloway
Town Hall
Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm,
New Galloway Scout Hut
Dog Training: Tue, 7pm,
Dalry Town Hall. Contact Eric
Broadhurst on 460 670
Stewartry Camera Club:
Wed, 7.30pm, The Tolbooth,
Kirkcudbright
Mossdale Painters: Wed,
9.30am, Mossdale Village Hall
Cub Scouts: Wed, 6.45–8pm,
New Galloway Scout Hut
Thursday Lunch Club:
12.30pm, New Galloway
Town Hall, fortnightly
starting 6 Jan, £3, contact
- Raymond Vincent, 01644
420451.
Advice Surgeries with Alex
Fergusson MSP, 2nd Friday
of the month from 5pm,
contact: 0800 028 7260
Lions Club monthly quiz:
alternating between The
CatStrand & Lochinvar Hotel,
contact - Andrew Frew on
420 323
Glenkens Gazette
page 20
Walkers Return
to the Glenkens
Thank You
The Glenkens will
once again feature in
Galloway’s largest walking
festival this year.
The tenth anniversary Newton
Stewart Walking Festival takes
place between Friday 11 and
Thursday 17 May. The programme
of more than 30 walks and
evening events features a number
of routes in and around the
Glenkens. One route, entitled
‘The Glenkens Villages’ is an 11
mile walk starting in Balmaclellan,
taking in Dalry, and ending in
New Galloway. The route includes
Walkers make their way towards the summit
short climbs to viewpoints at
of Corserine via Polmaddy Gairy. Photo credit
by M Kneeshaw.
Mulloch and Waterside Hills.
The full festival programme is available online at
www.newtonstewartwalkfest.com and brochures can be picked up
at Dalry library and the CatStrand in New Galloway. For further info
or to book, call 01671 404500.
Carsphairn
Show
Saturday 2nd June
Show opens at 8am with the
Sheepdog Trial, Sheep Judging
starts at 10am, Pet Show at 2pm,
NEW Exemption Dog Show at
2.30pm and Childrens’ Sports & Hill
Race start at around 3pm.
Entries on the day for Sheep, Pet Show, Dog Show
and Industrial Section (Sheep Dog Trial entry now
closed). Entries for Sheep and Industrial Section
must be received by 9.30am on the day.
Schedules available from local shops or
contact Jean Gibbon on 01644 460 244, email
info@furmiston.co.uk or download a schedule at
www.carsphairn.org/carsphairn-show
Carsphairn Show Dance in
Lagwyne Hall at 9pm
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
JUNE/JULY COPY DEADLINE: Fri 4 May
The Glenkens Gazette would
like to thank Carsphairn
Renewable Energy Fund Ltd for
their substantive award towards
the running of the Gazette.
This will help the publication as
it strives to become sustainable
and financially self-sufficient.
Dalry Craft Fair
Dalry Town Hall are
holding a craft fair on
Saturday 7 April.
The focus will be on locally
produced arts and crafts and
with such a wealth of talented
creative people in and around
the Glenkens this should prove
to be well worth a visit.
JAZZ EVENING
John Fenner & Mike Daley All Stars
An evening of traditional jazz with a collection
of international jazz musicians.
John Fenner - guitar
Mike Daley - cornet
Tommy Evans - double bass
Duncan Nairn - clarinet/vocals
Jack Murray - trombone/vocals
Friday 20th & Saturday 21st April
Tickets £12.50
Show begins at 8pm with a light buffet supper
served during the interval.
Tickets are in advance only from the Lochinvar Hotel.
St. John’s Town of Dalry
Tel: 01644 430 107
www.lochinvarhotel.co.uk
Design & co-ordination:
Sarah Ade
sarah_ade@tiscali.co.uk
Printing:Stranraer &
Wigtownshire Free Press
www.stranraer-freepress.co.uk
The Glenkens Gaze�e is an ini�a�ve of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Sco�sh Charity No. SC032050
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Editor: Sarah Ade
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<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> </span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p>
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GLENKENS GAZETTE
News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry
June/July 2012
ISSUE 70
FREE
Glenkens Children’s Club
A new children’s group is set to
launch this July in the Glenkens.
Eilidh, Rosie and Noah at the Easter Bonnet Parade held by Glenkens
Playgroup to raise funds for the new Glenkens Children’s Club.
The Glenkens Children’s Club has been set up
for children, along with their parent/carer, to
come and enjoy the wonderful set-up created
by Glenkens Playgroup. The Playgroup sadly
will close at the end of this school year due to
Council funding cuts.
Glenkens mums are disappointed to be losing the
Playgroup, but are taking a positive angle and
looking to the future. The hope is that the Club
will provide a platform for events and activities
to happen, adapting to meet the needs of local
parents and children. One main difference from
other groups is that sessions will continue during
school holidays and older siblings are welcome to
come along too.
Continued on p7...
The ‘Top Shop’ in Dalry has
undergone a transformation
- from general store to
charity shop.
On Monday 23 April the former
Mace grocery shop at 34 Main
Street, Dalry, once again
opened its doors to the public,
but this time as the Glenkens
Community Shop.
This charitable venture is the
initiative of Dalry resident
Shirley McNaught who, after
working in a charity shop in
Castle Douglas, wanted to bring
the benefits of supporting the
local community closer to home.
“I set up the shop to raise
funds for local projects in the
Glenkens, such as the Good
Neighbours Club, the Mothers
and Toddler group and the
Scouts and Guides,” says
Shirley. She spoke of her vision
for the Glenkens Community
Shop:” I want the shop to be
a place where
people can
come together
and meet one
another, socialise
and interact.
This is a good
thing, and
support from
the community
will help the
community.”
Shirley
welcomes
donations of
any kind - coat
hangers and
clothes rails are especially
needed. They are also on the
look-out for volunteers. Avril
Brown has signed up to be the
first volunteer and is hoping
others will join her.
The shop is open every day from
Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm,
and the second Saturday of
the month to coincide with the
A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve
Manager Shirley McNaught (right)
with volunteer Avril Brown
Charity Begins at Home
Glenkens Farmers’ Market.
Shirley would like to thank Larry
and Moira Jones for their support
and generosity in offering a
month’s free rent of the shop
and to all who have donated
goods so far.
If you are interested in
volunteering, drop by the shop
or phone 01644 430 182.
Gill Stanyard
www.glenkensgaze�e.com
Glenkens Gazette
Dalry’s Donald Watson Bird
Project has a new logo.
The logo (above) depicts the
three birds that quintessentially
form the project: On the
outside is the golden eagle
(central to Jeff Watson’s work),
in the middle the hen harrier
(Donald Watson’s key bird) and
on the inside the swift which
has nested successfully at
Barone (the Watson’s former
residence) for years. We hope
they will also now nest in the
clock tower of Dalry Town Hall
as the protective netting has
been removed to allow this
to happen; what a wonderful
gesture by the Town
page 2
Hall Committee.
A successful event on Saturday
21 April celebrated the work
of Jeff Watson. Chris Rollie of
the RSPB gave an exhilarating
perspective on golden eagles
in south west Scotland, and
Vanessa Halhead, Jeff’s widow,
introduced the film In the
Company of Eagles about her
husband’s outstanding work.
Mon 6 to Wed 8 Aug:
Room 13 Young Persons
Art Workshop. Contact
sarah@watsonbirds.org to book.
Fri 21 to Sun 23 Sept: Dalry
Bird Festival.
For more about Watson Birds
visit www.watsonbirds.org
Centenarian for Centenary
Honoured Guest Mrs Bella
Wood was just six months
old when Spalding Bowling
Club opened in 1912.
Evergreen centenarian Mrs Wood
threw the Silver Jack and delivered
the first bowl, declaring the green
Hamish Sinclair (President), Mrs Bella Wood
& John Peacock (Vice President) with the
centenary cake.
open for its 100th year. There
were over 70 past and present
members along with friends and
family present, with everyone
having a cuppa and a piece of
centenary cake before a friendly
game to round off the afternoon.
Glencairn Bowling Club, from
Moniave, came for a friendly game
to officially open the green on 12
May 1912, and we invited them
back on Saturday 12 May 2012.
There will be an invitation
tournament on Saturday 4 August
where clubs from other areas
will come and enjoy a friendly
competition. New Members are
always welcome! For further info
about the Club, contact president
Hamish Sinclair on 01644 430
422.
Liz Peacock
Local
Elections
A successful hustings
meeting was held at the
CatStrand in April with
five of the Castle Douglas
and Glenkens ward
candidates in attendance.
Various local issues were raised
and discussion took place about
what plans each candidate had
for next five years if elected.
The elected councillors for the
Glenkens are Finlay Carson
(Scottish Conservative and
Unionist), Brian Collins (Scottish
National Party) and George
Prentice (Independent).
Over the next few issues of the
Gazette we will interview each
councillor about their plans for
the area over the next five years.
Dalry Community Council:
Next meeting: Mon 2 July,
7pm, Dalry Town Hall.
New Galloway & Kells
Community Council: Next
meetings: Mon 11 June & 9
July, 7.30pm, New Galloway
Town Hall.
Carsphairn Community
Council: Next meeting: Mon
25 June, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall.
Balmaclellan Community
Council: Next meetings: Mon
25 June & 30 July, 7.30pm,
Balmaclellan Village Hall.
Full minutes of local
Community Council
meetings can be viewed at
Dalry Library.
GTI WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE
(registered route)
DALBEATTIE MOBILE POST OFFICE
MONDAY
Corsock: 12:30-1.30pm, Balmaclellan: 2.303.30pm, Mossdale: 4-5pm
WEDNESDAY
Balmaclellan: 2:45-4:45pm
THURSDAY
Mossdale: 9:30-10:30am, Balmaclellan:
11am-1pm, Corsock: 2-3pm
Bill payments, postage, banking, motor
vehicle licences, travel insurance, bureau
de change, key charging and mobile top-up.
Outward Journey:
19:00 Dept. Dalry (Underhill)
19:10 New Galloway
19:25 Mossdale
19:35 Laurieston
19:40 Townhead of Greenlaw
19:47 Castle Douglas (Market St)
19:50 Castle Douglas (Tesco)
Return journey:
20:45 Dept. Castle Douglas (Tesco)
20:47 Castle Douglas (Market St)
20:52 Townhead of Greenlaw
21:00 Laurieston
21:10 Mossdale
21:25 New Galloway
21:35 Dalry
To book a GTI bus or for more information please contact keith cooper,
GTI Administrator, on 01644 420374.
Glenkens Gazette
page 3
On Monday 30 April
children from Carsphairn,
Dalry and Kells Primary
Schools, along with
members of the
CatStrand Artexpresso
carers group, headed
into Galloway Forest Park
to be part of an exciting
project happening this
summer at the Otter Pool
– Giants in the Forest.
The groups worked with
botanist Clair McFarlan to
learn interesting facts about
wildflowers before planting
them in seedling form into three
giant heads which were then
suspended high in the trees in
the forest. This was the first
activity in a project that will take
place between now and October,
and which is happening not just
in Galloway Forest Park but in
forests across Scotland, England
and Wales.
Giants in the Forest
is run by Vision
Mechanics, the
group responsible
for Big Man Walking
in Dumfries two
years ago. They
will be working with
the CatStrand in
partnership with
SW Scotland’s
Biosphere and
Dumfries &
Galloway Arts Festival to
deliver a series of activities in
the community. The project
encourages people to visit
forests and enjoy art in nontraditional settings. Vision
Mechanics Artistic Director,
Symon Macintyre, says;
“the project aims to connect
people and their communities
and invites them to reflect
on their relationship with the
environment, the seasons and
life cycles.”
Children from Kells primary school
with one of the giant heads
GIANTS IN THE FOREST
People are encouraged to visit
the Giants and ask themselves
what the heads are thinking,
then take a photo and upload it
onto www.giantsintheforest.com
along with your thoughts.
A picnic will be held on Sunday
10 June – everyone’s invited
- and there will be lots more on
over the next few months. If you
are part of a group and would
like get involved in the project
contact jodie@catstrand.com
THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL
New Galloway
Balmaclellan Shop
Open 7 Days
Beautiful Riverside Location
MEALS SERVED
12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm
SUNDAY LUNCH CARVERY
bed and breakfast
en suite accommodation
01644 420 211
mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk
ww.kenbridgehotel.co.uk
your local deli
Fresh Meat
Wines & Spirits
Galloway Smokehouse Products
Cream o’ Galloway Ice-cream
Gluten-free Products
Coal & Peat
Dog Food & Bird Seed
Calor Gas
Newspapers
Laundry & Dry Cleaning
Free ATM
Tel: 420 321
OPENING TIMES:
7.30am - 5.30pm Mon, Tue, Thurs & Fri, 7.30am - 12.30pm
Wed, 7.30am - 4.30pm Sat, 8.30am - 11.30am Sun
Glenkens Gazette
page 4
sponsored by
EVERYTHING listed on the Glenkens Freecycle page is FREE - you just
need to contact the owner and go and pick it up!
Anyone can list an item they no longer want, and hopefully someone else in the area is looking for just that thing
and will come and collect it. If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch with Sarah on
07727 127 997 or email glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk.
Please remember that people list their items in good faith that they will go to an appreciative
home - items are not to be collected simply to sell on.
Furniture
Kingsize mattress, pocket sprung,
good condition. Very heavy - will
need 2 people to lift it. Contact:
Trevor on 440 683. Please leave a
message and I’ll get back to you.
Couch, green leather, 3-seater,
nearly as new except one seat
cushion missing. Call 460 673
Various
Pine framed cork pinboards: 61
x 92cm and 46 x 61cm. Contact:
430 218
Ladies bike. Good overall
condition but needs two new
tires through lack of use.
Contact: Fiona on 07789 903
127
Large tent, sleeps 6. Contact:
Paula 420 221
Watson portable television with
remote control. Contact: Nigel
on 460 545
Panasonic video player/recorder,
as new, complete with Scart
lead. Anyone still want to play
their old videos? Contact Alan on
07769 680 938
Curtains: pair extra long
curtains (258cm long x 384cm
wide), Liberty fabric (warm
colours, mainly green and pink),
interlined pair shorter curtains
(134cm long x 256cm wide),
pretty Jane Churchill floral fabric,
interlined. Contact: 430 218
Lampshade for standard lamp,
height 42cm, bottom diameter
52cm, top diameter, 26cm.
Contact: Ken on 460 516
Plants/Garden
Scarborough lilies: House plants,
small bulbs, potted and ready
to grow on, produce spikes
of coral red flowers from July
to September. In this case I
wouldn’t mind if people want
to take these to sell on to raise
money for good causes, eg.
Scouts, Guides, etc. Contact:
07554 644 993 (evenings)
Patio Heater: Homebase ‘Nevada’
table-top patio heater (stainless
steel) with gas connector,
several years old but never been
used. Contact: 430 218
Childrens’
Children’s desk/easel – moulded
plastic (make is ‘smoby’).
Contact: Sarah on 430 138
DIY/Home Fittings
Window handles. Contact: Ken
LITTER BUGS
Whilst walking along the Gatehill road, a few senior
citizens picked up two bin-bags full rubbish. We
could not, unfortunately, carry the microwave oven,
computer, oil drums and tyres dumped there!
PIANO
LESSONS
IN THE
GLENKENS
Experienced & qualified teacher
available to travel to you.
Examinations with ABRSM.
Theory also taught.
Phone Zarah on 01644 460 636
Text: 07900 956 845
Email: zarahgroves@gmail.com
on 460 516
Door bell and wireless chime.
Contact: Nigel on 460 545
Selection of Double Glazed units
from our old windows. Will need
frames made, but might suit a
carpenter with a chilly house.
Contact: Andi on 430 255
WANTED
Air Compressor, chainsaws or
chainsaw parts, any condition,
working or not. Contact: Gareth
on 460 661.
Wooden crates, the kind used for
beer or cider, any size, I don’t
mind if they’re grubby as long as
they’re not broken or have wood
worm. Contact: 07554 644993
Small sturdy work bench or
wooden table which could serve
as one. Contact: 07554 644993
Calor gas stove. Mei on 460 528
KX80 motorbike parts wanted.
Contact: Gareth on 460 661.
Does anyone commute to
Glasgow on a Friday morning?
If so, would you be open to
giving me a lift? I am happy to
split fuel costs. Contact: Gill on
07807 106 799
This isn’t litter dropped by tourist-season visitors...
Why do some of us who live here care so little about
the beautiful countryside and treat it as a rubbish
dump? You know who you are, so please think
before you litter.
A Walker
FHB Fencing
Dalry
Domestic and
Agricultural
Fencing
01644 430 495 (Peter)
or 07767 795 498
(Jonathan)
Glenkens Gazette
page 5
sponsored by
In this issue we are going to look at a domestic-scale renewable energy
technology that has grown in recent years – wood pellet heating systems.
There are a few
examples of wood
pellet heating systems
in the Glenkens, the
most notable being the
biomass heating system
at the CatStrand in New
Galloway.
Wood pellet heating systems
are well established and widely
used in many countries worldwide, including Sweden, Austria,
Italy and Canada. Boilers are
available in a range of sizes,
capable of heating everything
from a family home (15
Kilowatts) to a medium-sized
commercial building or school
(100 Kilowatts).
Stand-alone pellet burning room
stoves are also growing in use,
but to provide heat to radiators
or under-floor pipes, and
therefore heat a whole building,
a pellet boiler is required. The
heated water is pumped to an
insulated thermal store (basically
a large hot water tank), and the
heat is then drawn off via heat
exchangers in the tank to supply
domestic hot water or to feed
radiators/pipes. Combination
systems are available which
combine a room stove with a
back-boiler, therefore providing
direct space heating as well as
feeding radiators and providing
hot water.
The systems burn small wood
pellets (6-8mm diameter and
1-2cm in length), that are
delivered either in bulk (by
tanker) or by pallet (a pallet
carries 1 tonne, usually in 10kg
bags). The pellets are made
from compressed sawdust, which
is typically waste from sawmills.
A typical three bedroom house
will burn 4-6 tonnes of pellets
per year, so pellet storage and
delivery is a consideration. A
number of distributors provide
regular wood pellet deliveries
in the Glenkens area, and a
wood fuel co-operative has
been established in Dumfries.
The price per tonne has stayed
pretty constant over the last
five years, at about £240/tonne,
during a period that has seen
significant rises in oil, gas and
electricity prices.
A wide range of
efficient stove and
boiler technologies
are available, and can
achieve efficiencies of
over 90% in terms of
converting the energy
content of the pellets
into useable heat.
People often ask if burning wood
pellets can be considered to be
renewable and whether or not
it has the potential to decrease
greenhouse gas emissions.
The answer to this is simple
- providing the wood comes
from sustainable sources (i.e.
commercial forestry that is
replanted, as is the case in the
UK), then the carbon dioxide
released in burning is equal to
that absorbed whilst the tree
was growing, so it is considered
to be carbon neutral. The
energy used in production and
transportation also needs to
be considered when looking at
the overall carbon and energy
balance, but there are now a
number of well-established pellet
producers which produce good
quality pellets from sustainable
wood sources. The Energy
Saving Trust estimates that a
pellet central heating system in
a three-bedroom house will save
between three and eight tonnes
of carbon dioxide a year, and
save between £100 and £700
per year.
A new support scheme is
currently being considered
by the UK Government to
encourage the uptake of
domestic biomass, which will
also cover log and wood chip
central heating systems. Support
is available for non-domestic
applications through the
Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI),
which pays a tariff for each unit
of heat generated.
It is expected that the
RHI will be extended
to cover domestic
applications later in 2012.
In the meantime there is a oneoff grant payment for domestic
systems of £950 available
through a scheme known as
the Renewable Heat Premium
Payment.
Take a look at
www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
for further information and
practical advice.
Neil Douglas
Glenkens Gazette
page 6
New Zealand Flatworm Frenzy
Our native earthworm
- friend of farmers,
fishermen, and
gardeners - has seen
a rapid decline in
its numbers across
Scotland.
Where once scientists looked to
find millions of the little creatures
for every acre, there are now
areas of Scotland where their
numbers are undetectable. Our
population of invisible workers
that help aerate the soil and
transport nutrients are under
attack from a foreign predator.
This predator, the New Zealand
flatworm, introduced through
the importation of plants, has
now been in the country for
40 years, and has managed to
spread through most of Scotland,
Northern Ireland, and some areas
of northern England.
The New Zealand flatworm is a
rather unappealing creature. 38cm long, they range in colour
from cream to peach to a uniform
brown, with a slight red tinge
towards one end. They are flat
and unsegmented, with a pointed
head. The flatworm is covered in
enzyme-laden mucus that allows
it to slide along and follow its
prey through its own burrows,
and on capturing a
victim it coils itself
around the prey.
The underside of
the midsection of
the flatworm has
a retractable, extending mouth
that secretes juices that allows
the prey to be liquefied externally
before being sucked up through
the mouth in to the body of the
flatworm.
The flatworm is particularly
prevalent in the west of Scotland,
and many gardeners here in the
Glenkens have commented on the
amounts that they are finding;
they are definitely present in
Dalry and Balmaclellan, but
it seems perhaps not yet in
Carsphairn or New Galloway...so
let’s make sure they don’t spread!
At the moment there are no
chemical or biological solutions
to the problem. The difficulty
is that there are no approved
compounds that would
exterminate the flatworm without
also killing the earthworms that
we are trying to protect.
There are, however, measures
which can be taken to stop
the spread of this insidious
invertebrate:
- put plants into the ground
with bare roots, or grow from
Crayfish Conundrum
Something must be done
about the American
signal crayfish...
The man from Marine Scotland
wants to do nothing; it’s all
too difficult. And from an office
in a city that may well be the
case. But in the Glenkens and
Ken/Dee valley, the situation
is different. Let’s look at what
we know: The American signal
crayfish is a non-native and
highly invasive species which
consumes vegetation and
invertebrates. Their numbers
are increasing, and the
consequences are a damaging
downwards spiral both for the
natural environment and for the
recreational fishing and tourist
trade. Does it not make sense,
therefore, to consider carefully
the whole range of options,
to assess the relative risks of
each one and decide on a way
forward?
The Cabinet Secretary for
the Environment and Rural
Affairs needs to undertake a
thorough assessment of the
environmental and economic
aspects and come up with
solutions.
There are clearly risks, such
as wholesale commercial
exploitation by unscrupulous
seed in clean soil.
- Precautions should be taken
with any soil from infected areas,
and knowledge of the flatworm in
all its stages gained to allow easy
recognition.
- if you are moving any plants,
remove excess soil, immerse
roots in warm water and leave
overnight; flatworms can’t
swim and will tend to sink to
the bottom, where they can be
collected and disposed of.
They can also be trapped, collected
and disposed of: Tiles, weighted
black plastic sacks or other similar
objects with a smooth surface
that can be laid flat and create a
damp, dark area can be put out
overnight. These traps should be
checked daily, and the flatworms
disposed of by dropping them into
hot, or salty, water.
Soil scientist Dr Boag monitors
the spread of the NZ flatworm
and would like to know of their
presence in any agricultural
fields. He can be emailed on
brian.boag@hutton.ac.uk
Sara McNeill
operators seeking to extend the
territory of the crayfish through
seeding other rivers. But we
have experience of how to put
in place effective regulations,
and we have made progress in
eradicating other introduced
pest species such as the
capture of mink and rats from
bird breeding islands which few
thought possible a couple of
decades ago. Surely it is not
beyond the government to find
a solution which allows locals
and visitors to eat the crayfish
and for the rivers to become
more natural again.
So please join the efforts of
Alex Fergusson in campaigning
for full assessment and action
to progress towards a better
outcome.
Roger Crofts, Dalry
Glenkens Gazette
Continued from font page...
The club will come under the
umbrella of the Glenkens
Community & Arts Trust (GCAT)
which can offer charitable status
as well as strategic advice on
various aspects of running the
group.
The new club will run on Mondays
and Fridays, from 9.15-11.45am,
at the Glenkens Community
Centre in Dalry. It is designed
particularly for children from
birth to age four but is open to all
ages, especially in the holidays.
page 7
A snack will be provided, and the
cost will be £2 per child and £1
for any subsequent children.
We will have regular activities
such as Storytime provided by
Dalry Library, music, outdoor
activities, and messy and creative
play, tying in with other local
groups where possible.
The new Club will be
launched on Monday 16 July
at 9.15am. Entry will be free
and there will be a toy sale
and tea/coffee and biscuits
– so please come along to
support this new venture!
The Club would like to thank
Glenkens Playgroup for their
donation of equipment and
funds to the new Club, and also
thank Julie and Sue for all their
hard work and for the wonderful
service they have provided to the
children of the Glenkens over the
years. Our children are going to
miss you!
To find out more or get in touch
with the Glenkens Children’s
Club, please visit
www.glenkenschildrensclub.co.uk
Fundraising Cake CatStrand Youth Players
& Plant Sale
The Youth Players had a very successful day at The
A recent cake and
plant sale organised by
the Ladies Guild at St
Margaret’s Church in New
Galloway raised over £400.
The money went to Waverley
Care, Scotland’s leading charity
providing care and support for
HIV and Hepatitis C sufferers
and their families.
Palace Theatre in Kilmarnock on Saturday 24 March.
Winning the Youth Festival at Lochside Theatre in February earned
them the honour of representing the Stewartry District at the West
of Scotland Finals for the second time in the past three years.
Competing against the five other district winners from throughout
the West of Scotland, they were placed a very creditable second,
and they came home with the Ross Arthington Memorial Trophy as
runners up.
The Youth Players’ next appearance on stage will be at the
CatStrand on Friday 8 June with an evening of short plays and
sketches to end another successful season.
Our skilled head chef uses the best local
produce including Galloway beef, Craigadam
lamb and venison, cheese from Rowan Glen and
fish from the Galloway Smokehouse.
With a warm and friendly atmosphere,
outstanding food and lovely locals, it’s no
wonder The Clachan Inn, Dalry, is fast
becoming the place to be in the Glenkens.
Aileen
McLeod
MSP
working for you across
the South of Scotland
Postal address:
Unit 7
Loreburne Shopping Centre
High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2D
Email:
aileen.mcleod.msp@scottish.parliament.uk
Tel:
01387 255 334
Please check
Tel: 01644 430 241
Email: mail@theclachaninn.co.uk
www.theclachaninn.co.uk
www.aileenmcleod.org
regularly for surgery, constituency
and parliamentary updates
Glenkens Gazette
page 8
Hadrian’s
Wall Visit
On Tuesday 27 March S1
pupils from Dalry Secondary
School visited the Army
Museum, Vindolanda and
Hadrian’s Wall.
James Banner, S1, reports:
“We went to Hadrian’s Wall and
the Roman Army Museum which
was good. A hologram taught us
about life as a Roman and their
language and numerals. Then
we went around the museum
looking at things and we had
our activity book that we filled
in as we went, after that we
watched a 3D Roman film called
the Eagle’s Eye. After that we
got put in groups and explored
the rest of the museum with my
friends. Then we went to the
shop and had some lunch.”
After lunch, which was enjoyed
outside in almost tropical
weather, the pupils had the
chance to see Hadrian’s Wall
before we visited the Roman
fort of Vindolanda, famous for
housing the ‘Vindolanda writing
tables’ which provide detailed
descriptions of life at the fort
from the words of the people
who lived there. The Vindolanda
fort allowed pupils to investigate
a replica of the fort’s features as
Daisy Hickman, S1, describes:
“The first thing we did when
we got to Vindolanda was have
a talk from an archaeologist
about the things they had found
at the site. We sat on a wall in
the tropical heat and looked at
some of the finds and talked
about what they had been used
for. Then we went and looked
at some of the remains of the
buildings. We were put into
groups and sent to find different
rooms or buildings in and around
the site. Then we went to these
buildings that had two models
inside. One had the inside of a
Roman house and the other had
the inside of a Roman shop. You
looked through a glass screen
and you heard someone talking
about living or working in the
different buildings. We then
went down to the gift shop and
bought an ice-cream!”
Stag Tea Room
& Garden
Carricks, Main Street, Carsphairn, DG7 3TQ
Tel: 01644 460 211
Enter a stranger, leave as a friend and
return as a regular!
Come and enjoy a light meal including HomeMade Pies, Scones and Soups, Rolls with hot or
cold fillings.
Now stocking handmade chocolates from
The Moniaive Chocolatiers
Our Garden has a wonderful view and the Tea
Room is open all year
COMING SOON!
A Lottery Terminal is being installed in June 2012.
Keep an eye on our shop window for the latest
information!
Take out menu available
- ring in your order in and
we can have it ready for
collection.
Glenkens Gazette
page 9
Glenkens Cluster Residential CAITLIN’S
COLUMN
Recently P6 and
7 pupils from the
Glenkens visited
Edinburgh for a
three-day residential
experience.
Manchester,
like any city, is
bursting with opportunity.
On the first day the pupils
from Carsphairn, Dalry and
Kells stopped off en route
to visit the Falkirk Wheel.
After the boat trip and
Pupils with Alex Fergusson MSP
picnic lunch the next stop
was the National Museum
the Parliament by Mr Fergusson,
of Scotland, and the day was
our local MSP. After lunch at the
rounded off with a ‘Ghost Tour’
Parliament we walked across
around the old part of the city. The the road to visit the galleries in
pupils found it hilarious when Mr
Dynamic Earth which explained
McKenna and Mr Gray were chosen how our planet was created and
to be whipped at the ‘mercat cross’ how it has changed over millions
when our guide was telling stories
of years.
of everyday life in Edinburgh
On the last day of the residential
hundreds of years ago.
we visited Edinburgh Castle. The
Day two began with a walk up
pupils especially enjoyed seeing
Arthur’s Seat in glorious sunny
the Scottish crown, Stone of
weather. After some super views
Destiny and the one o’clock gun.
of the city of Edinburgh we walked We then walked from the castle to
to the Scottish Parliament at
the Camera Obscura on the Royal
Holyrood. The group was fortunate Mile. After lunch in Princes Street
to be given a guided tour around
Gardens we all headed back home.
Bonanza Bagz
Glenkens Guides would like
to say a very big thank you
to everyone who kindly
contributed sewing materials
to enable the creation of
bags for the fundraising
Bonanza Bagz project.
Their first venture into the
sale of these bags, and other
sewn items, took place during
the recent Guide/Brownie/
Rainbow ‘Soup & Sweet Lunch’
fundraising event. Thanks to
the support of the community,
the total income from this
event was £394.50. Included
in this amount was £63 from
the sale of Bonanza Bags. The
guides have agreed that 25%
of this amount will go to their
chosen charity, Children 1st.
Girls can be Guides between
the ages of 10 and 15 years,
and any girls interested in
joining our unit should contact
Mrs Kathryn Peace (01644 430
281). We meet on Tuesday
evenings in the Glenkens
Community Centre, and would
be so pleased to
have a few more
girls join our small
but active unit.
Plans for the near
future include
a day at the
Galloway Sailing
Centre, and going
to County Camp
during the summer
holidays.
For a young country-bumpkin
kid like me, the city seemed like
heaven. I guess young people
growing up in the city would take
it for granted somewhat, just as I
did with Galloway, but when you
go somewhere so alien for a while
nothing else seems to compare.
The possibilities Manchester
throws my way seem endless;
I’m forever going to music events
or taking part in art projects and
going to galleries. Especially in
the art school, I meet unlimited
amounts of lovely and interesting
people who inspire me, teach
me and introduce me to new
things. Right now my coursemates and I are working on a big
art project based in a rundown
mill which has been converted
into an independently run space
for up-and-coming artists,
makers, thinkers and doers. The
potential in a place like that is
phenomenal. It actually reminded
me of the CatStrand; how it’s run
by volunteers and encourages
local artists, musicians and
people to become more involved.
I think little things like that are
vital for that sense of community.
In a huge city a sense of
community is key or else you
may become lost in the bright
lights and crowds of people.
Sometimes in Galloway it seems
like there isn’t much going
on - that people, especially
youngsters, are isolated just when
they need most to connect with
others their age. A huge part
of this problem is the transport
system. It’s beyond me why in
Manchester there is every kind of
transport under the sun - even a
free bus service! - yet in a place
where it’s needed most the buses
are so few and far between.
Take a look around you - there is
loads going on in Galloway! Music
nights, craft workshops, artists by
the dozen - just like in a city but
on a smaller scale. So doesn’t that
make them even more important?
Glenkens Gazette
page 10
There’s so much on
at the CatStrand this
summer!
We are delighted to be working
with the Dumfries & Galloway
Arts Festival again this year,
and presenting an Anglo/
Scottish double bill of veteran
singer-songwriters whose
combined careers total more
than the average lifetime with
performances from Rab Noakes
& Allan Taylor ( Friday 1 June).
Did you love Woody Pines
or Pokey la Farge when they
visited last year? Then I think
you’re going to like these
guys... All the way from Boise,
Idaho, the group Hillfolk Noir
(Sunday 10 June) have built
themselves a huge Stateside
following. Their music is
described as being inspired by
a half-century of folk, country
and rock ‘n’ roll, and fed by
family history and an affinity
for acoustic mountain music,
medicine show culture and
depression-era string-band
blues...
With 5-star reviews and sellout audiences at last year’s
Edinburgh Fringe, we are
delighted to present Scotland’s
Little Sparrow Christine Bovill
with her show PIAF (Friday 15
June). Piaf’s life was as dark as
her iconic black dress, but PIAF
the show will expose the colour
and hope in spite of it all. A
breathtaking musical homage
to the much-revered French
star.
Don’t forget that on Thursday
28 June we will be screening
the multiple award-winning
The Artist. One of the year’s
most original films, this is a
charming tale of two actors
during the silent movie era.
The CatStrand will be spreading
its wings again on Saturday
23 June and heading out to
Balmaclellan Hall where Wee
Stories will present their show
The Sun, The Moon & A Boy Called River
CatStrand Highlights
The Sun, The Moon & A Boy
Called River. This is a magical
tale of good against evil and an
unattainable quest with many
surprises along the way...
Pick up a programme
for full listings, or
to book tickets call
01644 420 374 or visit
www.catstrand.com
Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP
Solicitors and Estate Agents
Selling properties across
Dumfries & Galloway
01556 503744
www.ggblaw.co.uk
All legal advice
Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie
Kirkcudbright and Dumfries
Glenkens Gazette
page 11
COMMUNITY BUS NEWS Hungarian
Spring Fling (have you booked
I know from many
Visit
your seats yet?) as well as for
people’s reaction that
there are concerns
about the hold on
Council funding for the
Glenkens Transport
Initiative (GTI) bus.
Well, hopefully by the time you
read this our application will have
been granted – fingers crossed!
Giants in the Forest is one of the
local projects we are providing
transport for this year. Part
of the Dumfries & Galloway
Arts Festival, it runs between
April and October and aims to
encourage various local groups
to explore our woodlands. On the
first visit 32 pupils from Dalry
School came along, and many
more are to follow from other
schools and groups in the area
(for more on this see p3).
This year GTI are also providing
transport across the Region for
the Council-run play scheme
which runs during the summer
holidays in Castle Douglas for
children with special needs.
The trips continue to come and
go and there is an additional
one to Kelvingrove Art Museum
on Thursday 28 June to coincide
with an Exhibition of 500 years of
Italian Art. Tickets are on sale for
this now; even if you don’t fancy
going to Kelvingrove we can drop
you off at Silverburn Shopping
Centre or feel free to do your
own thing in Glasgow – all for £6
return!
In the next few months we will
travel far and wide, so why not
take some photos and write a
few lines about one of these
days out – I am sure it will make
interesting reading in the next
issue of the Gazette...
Keith Cooper,
GTI Administrator
The local Presbytery of
the Church of Scotland is
exploring a twinning with
the Presbytery of Debrecen
in eastern Hungary.
Last May fifteen people from
this Presbytery visited Hungary.
This June a group of seventeen
Hungarians will come here.
We will be hosting Rev Sandor
Karcza at the manse, and he
will preach at Dalry and Kells
Churches on Sunday 10 June.
On Monday 11 June the group
will gather at the Burning Bush
in Dalry at 10am and proceed
to Earlstoun Castle for an
outdoor conventicle - you are
welcome to join us. The group
will have a brief look round
Dalry churchyard to view the
Covenanter memorials, and
then head to the Ken Bridge
Hotel for a lunch of haggis,
neeps and tatties. If you’d like
to join the Hungarians for this
meal please book with myself on
430 380.
David Bartholomew
would like to thank everyone
Jubilee Celebrations Iwho
kindly supported the
New Galloway will be holding Jubilee celebrations
on the afternoon of Tuesday 5 June.
They will take the form of Tea in the Park, a kind of street party
theme but in the park. Bring along a picnic and drinks, or there will
also be a tea tent and barbecue.
The theme is 1950’s dress so feel free to dress in 50’s gear; this is of
course optional, but there will be a prize for ‘best dressed’!
Music and other entertainment will run throughout the afternoon
from about 2pm along with games, sports and a five-a-side football
competition later in the afternoon.
Family
and friends
coming to stay?
Short of space?
The Fleet Fish van is in the Glenkens
on Tuesdays & Wednesdays every
week. Anyone wishing me to call,
please phone Mary on above mobile no.
Cosy country cottage
available (sleeps 4)
Call Fiona on
01644 420 227
or 07789 903127
table-top sale at Dalry Town
Hall on Saturday 24 March.
The total raised was £149
which enabled the Get into
Reading project for people
living with dementia and
carers to take place for 12
weeks at the Community
Centre in Castle Douglas.
A special thank you to Avril
Brown for her help with
refreshments - what
a star!
Gill Stanyard
Glenkens Gazette
page 12
Having been made
welcome by the villagers
of Dalry since retiring
there in 2006, Eric
Broadhurst and his wife
Helen wanted to put
something back into the
community - and as a
result Real Dog Training
Scotland was born.
Eric runs dog training classes
in Dalry Town Hall on Tuesday
evenings. Having provided the TV
and film industry with dogs and cats
for over 35 years, he is well qualified
in the field of canine training. “To
arrive on set with a dog and a new
actor, to be told by the director that
the dog needs to do the following in
the next three hours, you have to
be a good assessor of both dog and
man,” says Eric.
People have arrived at Dalry on a
Tuesday night not daring to bring
their dog into the hall as other clubs
Dalry youngsters with their dogs
Dog Training in Dalry
have sent their dogs home for being
out of control. These same people
are amazed that by the end of the
night their dog is responding to the
training.
The New Year brought youngsters
and puppies to the club, which took
Eric back to the days on Coronation
Street with a twelve week old great
Dane puppy called Schmicheal and
a 12 year old actor called Sam
Aston. Fans of Coronation Street will
have witnessed for themselves the
relationship between Sam (Chesney)
and Schmicheal, and the working
bond that was formed.
ALEX
FERGUSSON
MSP
FOR
GALLOWAY &
WEST DUMFRIES
Holds regular advice surgeries at:
Constituency Office, New Market
Street, Castle Douglas, DG7 1HY
on the 2nd Friday of every month from 5pm
Telephone free on 0800 028 7260
for an appointment or to make
any alternative arrangement.
You can visit Alex’s website at:
www.alexfergusson.org.uk
or contact him by e-mail at:
alex.fergusson.msp@scottish.parliament.uk
“The Dalry youngsters are
illustrating that there is nothing
better than to see the bond between
a child and their well-behaved family
pet,” says Eric.
Planning to enter your dog
into the pet show at any of the
agricultural shows this summer?
Come along to Eric’s Ring Craft
workshops; you’ll only have a
minute to impress the judge!
To find out more visit
www.realdogtrainingscotland.co.uk
To hire Dalry Town Hall, contact
Jean Lockerbie on 430 454.
page 13
Crowing Success EQUINE
Gordon McAdam of Dalry
recently followed in his
BOGOF
father’s footsteps with a
very chirpy win.
Two years ago, after a gap of 20
years, Gordon started showing
poultry again. This April he
entered Beith Show and won
overall show champion in the
poultry section with a buff Plymouth rock cockerel. Twenty-seven
years ago Gordon’s father, George, won the same cup at the same
show with the same breed of bird.
At Beith Gordon also won the reserve champion with a white call
duck. He exhibited 15 birds in total, and came away with 14 prize
tickets – quite an achievement!
Dalry Library would like to thank Mr Wright at St John’s
Nursery for donating flowers and compost for the
library planters, and Simon Stout for planting them.
Librarian Angela Miller says: “I very much appreciate the
donations of flowers from Mr Wright and time from Mr Stout. I’m
sure the Library patrons will be grateful too for the splash of life
and colour it brings to the front of the Library.”
St John’s Nursery, Main Street, Dalry is open 9am-4pm
every day except Wed and Thurs (430 291). Simon Stout is a
gardener and handyman based in Dalry (07752 589 610).
Buy one get one free
has taken on a whole
new meaning for one
Glenkens resident...
Louise Whyte, of Carsphairn,
says: “We recently rescued a
comtois mare from the meat
trade, and two weeks after she
arrived we had an unexpected
bonus... little Fleurette. We are
just about over the shock!”
Theo Paphitis with winner Sharon Marshall
Tweet Winner
Sharon Marshall of local business TransK9 Dog
Transit Products recently joined Theo Paphitis
of BBC’s Dragons’ Den in Birmingham after
being selected as one of his six favourite small
businesses in a weekly Twitter event.
Every Sunday Theo rewards small businesses that tweet
him and describe their businesses in 140 characters. Out
of the hundreds of entries each week he reviews and
chooses his favourite six who are then re-tweeted. At the
current time he has over 235,000 followers so this offers a
tremendous boost to any business that is chosen.
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
GLENKENS
MEDICAL PRACTICE
General Medical &
Dispensing Services
The Surgery
High Street
New Galloway
FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL
01644 420234
Proud mum with Fleurette, only two
hours old and still wobbly.
Glenkens Gazette
Glenkens Gazette
page 14
AGNES COOKS…
CAKE
In this issue local cook Agnes
Holden will give us some tips
on making delicious, and
nutritious, cakes.
I like the idea of using vegetables
in baking. Although you rarely
taste the vegetable itself, they
can add texture and colour to
a cake and make it something
special. The courgette cake with
the lime icing looks very unusual
when cut as it has specks of vivid
green throughout. Rest assured
those who hate courgettes
will never know what they are
eating and are sure to like it
anyway! The carrot and orange
cake is more traditional but the
added spices make it a wee
bit different. Both cakes have
the same proportions of main
ingredients but vary in spices,
and follow the same method. For
both you need a square 23cm
tin, greased and lined.
Courgette and Lime Cake
175g/6oz grated courgette
(washed but not peeled)
175g/6oz castor sugar
175g/6fl oz vegetable oil
3 large eggs
175g/6oz self raising flour
1tsp bicarbonate of soda
1tsp vanilla extract
1⁄2 tsp grated nutmeg
1 lime
175g/6oz icing sugar
Zest the lime and chop finely.
Add this to 1tsp castor sugar
and put aside (this is for the
topping).
Mix together the sugar, eggs,
oil and vanilla and stir in the
courgettes. Add the flour,
bicarbonate of soda and nutmeg
and mix altogether. Pour into
prepared tin and bake for about
40 mins at 180°C/gas mark 4 (it
should feel firm to the touch).
Remove and cool for 10 mins
before turning out on to a wire
rack.
Squeeze the juice from the lime
and mix some with the icing
sugar (you won’t need all the
juice). Drizzle the icing over the
cake and scatter the prepared
lime zest over the top.
Carrot and Orange Cake
175g/6oz grated carrots
175g/6oz muscovado sugar
175g/6oz vegetable oil
3 large eggs
175g/6oz self raising flour
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
100g/4oz dried cranberries
1tsp cinnamon
1tsp mixed spice
1 orange
175g/6oz icing sugar
Follow the instructions for
making the courgette cake,
substituting the orange for the
lime.
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Take away menu available
We cater for functions and parties.
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Tel: 01644 430 107
www.lochinvarhotel.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 15
Wind Farm Community Benefit News
Love them or loath them,
it seems highly likely
that within the next ten
years the landscape of
the Glenkens will be
dominated by wind farms.
A development of this magnitude
needs to be thoroughly
scrutinised, so we should be
grateful to those on both sides of
the argument who have devoted
themselves to exploring the
issues. This has often been a
passionate and polarised debate
with sincerely held views about
the need to develop renewable
energy sources being set against
those who love the Galloway
landscape as it exists now and
want to keep it that way.
Whatever the outcome of this
argument we cannot wait for it
to be settled before doing our
utmost to ensure that those
communities which will be
most affected, if and when the
developments go ahead, receive
the maximum benefit possible.
A rough calculation shows that
community benefit payments
from wind farms have the
potential to boost the local
economy in a major way. At
present there are 12 large wind
farms already built or planned in
the Glenkens, with the potential
to produce 600 megawatts of
power in total.
If all of the developers of these
wind farms were to pay the
current going rate of £5000
per installed megawatt in
community benefit, it would
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Golf Club
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v 01644 420737 v
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VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME
mean quite a significant figure...
It would mean a boost
to the local economy
and infrastructure of £3
million per year.
Six community councils in the
Glenkens and Moniaive have
come together with the aim of
negotiating with developers.
However many schemes are
finally approved and whatever
financial benefit comes to
local communities, we want to
make sure that 100% of these
funds are used locally and not
swallowed up in administration
costs. Dumfries & Galloway
Council have recently employed
an official to negotiate with
developers on behalf of
communities.
The Council has said that
if community benefit
moneys are paid to it,
only 50% will go to
communities like ours
which will be directly
affected. The rest will go
into a central fund.
The Council makes the perfectly
reasonable point that some
communities may not want,
or be able, to administer and
spend the funds themselves.
In such cases it may indeed be
helpful if the Council steps in.
However, community councils
in the Glenkens and Glencairn
have decided to say “thanks, but
no thanks” to the Council’s offer
to look after our money - and
to take 50% commission for so
doing.
There is one Glenkens
community which is not yet a
member of the Glenkens and
Glencairn Community Benefit
Committee: Corsock.
This is a community which is
certain to be very significantly
affected by the Blackcraig
wind farm that has already
been approved. Unfortunately
Corsock does not have a
community council at present.
But if any residents of Corsock
are concerned about this
issue, and are willing to hold a
public meeting so that a local
community benefit committee
could be formed, they should
contact the convenor of our
committee, Sean Paul O’Hare, on
01644 420 374.
Come on Corsock - don’t miss
out!
Andrew Mellor,
Members of the Glenkens Scout
Group Committee, Leaders,
Scouts, Cubs and Beavers
would like to thank all who very
kindly donated items for our
Annual Jumble Sale.
A thank you also to everyone
who came along and purchased
goods, and, last but not least,
our band of helpers - from
parents to people from outside
Scouting - who give of their
time and work tirelessly for
the cause. We raised just over
£1000 which is amazing.
Thank you all again for
your kindness, it is much
appreciated.
Heather
T. H. CARSON
BUTCHERS
The Clog & Shoe
Workshop
unique handmade footwear
We deliver
every Thursday
open 10am - 5pm weekdays
Easter Mon to 31st October
please ring to arrange a visit at
other times
Tel: 01644 420 465
THE CROSS, MILL ST, DALBEATTIE
visit our new online shop at
See us at Dalry Farmers
Market on 2nd Sat each month.
Give us a call,
no order too small!
01556 610 384
www.clogandshoe.co.uk
Glenkens Gazette
page 16
THE STORY BEHIND THE SHOW
A few years back I
overheard a comment
about Carsphairn Show:
“Oh it’s the show this
weekend - isn’t it
amazing how it always
just appears every year
as if from nowhere”. And
in a way it is like that...
Over the years, hard working
committees have got together
and overnight a show field
appears, a show happens, and
then it all disappears again.
I have had the privilege of caring
for the archives of the show,
and this year have delved into
some of these old documents to
learn more about the Carsphairn
Show and its precursors - the
Carsphairn Fair, the Glenkens
Society and the Carsphairn
Shepherds’ Society.
The Fair was reputedly first held
in 1689 as a celebration of the
end of an army occupation of
Dalmellington and Carsphairn
by a brigade of Highlanders, and
with a local murder happening
on the same day, that particular
Fair is well documented. So, in
memory of Roger Dunne (who
was sadly killed in a matter of
mistaken identity), a fair was
held every year on the first
Friday of June.
The Glenkens Society, on the
other hand, was a more genteel
affair and was founded in 1830
“for the improvement of the
labouring classes”. This Society
included flower and vegetable
growing competitions and a
poultry show, amongst its many
other interests, and although
originally intended to be held
in various venues around the
district, never quite made it to
Carsphairn.
Finally in Carsphairn parish, an
organisation existed from the
early 1800’s by the name of the
Carsphairn Shepherds’ Society.
This Society was formed to
promote social contact between
sheep farmers in the parish
and was also intended to be
educational in the latest sheep
husbandry matters.
When the first meeting was
held in the School Room at
Carsphairn in 1876 “for the
purpose of making arrangements
for a show of poultry, dogs
and flowers”, these three
organisations all had played
their part in the formation
of Carsphairn Pastoral and
Horticultural Society; the body
behind the Carsphairn Show.
Afternoon
entertainments at the
show over the years
have ranged from a
Pillow Fight (strong flour
bags would be required)
to a ‘Clipping Sheep
to Wearing Jumper’
Time Trial to a Cow Pat
Lottery!
The poultry classes were the
largest section of the show and
in their heyday ‘conveyances’
would bring hampers of poultry
which had been collected off the
train at Dalmellington. In the
show archive is a postcard from
a disappointed exhibitor in 1936
which reads:
“Dear Secretary, owing
to the pure damned
stupidity of the Clerk
at Drongan Station my
exhibits for the Show
were not put on the train
yesterday morning…”.
Support for the showing of
poultry, pigeons, rabbits and
even cattle declined also and in
1969 the only livestock section
left was sheep.
Sheep classes didn’t begin until
1880, but with the background
of Carsphairn Shepherds’ Society
the show soon established
a name as one of the main
exhibitions of Blackface Sheep
in the country, and today it’s
still known as one of Scotland’s
premier Blackface Sheep ‘shop
windows’.
Since the 17th Century, the hill
shepherds have regarded the
Carsphairn Show as the first
chance to socialise with their
counterparts from other farms
after the winter snows melted
and the year’s lambing was over.
Why not come along to
Carsphairn Show on Saturday
2 June and see for yourself
- it really does just appear by
magic once a year! Jean Gibbon
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Glenkens Gazette
page 17
LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN
The Woodlands of Glenkens
Although Galloway Forest
Park is an inventive
euphemism for what
is often impenetrable
plantation where no birds
sing, the solitude of forest
trails can be extremely
pleasurable; a unique
mixture of the smell of
pine, the gurgle of burns
and the slightly menacing
silence of the woods.
In 1925 there were 300 hectares
of conifers near Mossdale and a
further 100 each at Woodhall Loch
and south Loch Ken. Today there
are 140,000 hectares in Galloway
and Carrick.
When I used to walk the Galloway
Hills, over fifty years ago, the
landscape outside the glens was
virtually treeless. The coming of the
green deserts was heralded by the
appearance of drainage ditches set
two metres apart; a distance which
defied any attempt to establish a
regular stride and was thoroughly
exhausting after a day on the
Rhinns.
The modern planting may have
been considered appropriate since
the Forest of Galloway is recorded
in the 12th century; a huge area
extending from Cree to Urr first
noted around 1300, in the vicinity
of Glenkens.
The word ‘forest’ is related to
‘foris’, which means ‘out of doors’,
but it was not necessarily densely
wooded. The medieval forest
was often ‘a wild uncultivated
waste’ set aside for hunting but
it had other uses too. There were
settlements such as Dalry whose
priest in the 15th century sought
to raise money for the repair of
his church ‘which is situated in
the woods, far from habitation of
other Christian faithful and among
fierce men ill-versed in the faith’.
Similar language was used by the
gentlemen of Carsphairn, - ‘a very
desolate wilderness containing 500
communicants’, - who petitioned
the General Assembly in 1638 to
carve a new parish out of Kells and
Dalry, with regard to ‘the salvation
of souls of barbarous and ignorant
people who has heretofore lived
without the knowledge of God, their
children unbaptized, their dead
unburied, and no way for getting
maintenance to a minister’.
Some animals, and not just deer,
were confined to ‘parks’, hence
the Glenkens farms with Park in
their name. Oak bark was used for
the tanning of hides. Indeed there
was so much human activity that
the Forest had its own laws, which
would have been unnecessary in an
empty wilderness.
Kenmure woods, photo courtesy of Padeapix.
A document of the 1680s mentions
‘the considerable woods upon the
west side of the Loch of Kenmoir,
Karn Edward Wood, the forest
of Craig Gilbert.’ The last-named
is just north of the Raiders’
Road. Andrew Symson in his
‘Large Description of Galloway’
(1684) mentions a wood of great
overgrown oaks at Kenmure
Castle. In 1691 the Earl of
Hopetoun, owner of the lead mines
at Leadhills, paid Sir Alexander
Gordon of Earlstoun 23,000 merks
(£113,164.31 in today’s money)
for some of his woods. 100 years
later Kenmure exported timber to
England by boat from Loch Ken via
the Dee and Kirkcudbright.
As New Galloway native Robert
Heron headed homewards up
Glenkens in 1791 he enthused
about the Drumrask oaks but
otherwise
lamented
that wood
was too
scarce to be used as fuel. He also
noted that the country people
considered the cutting down of
hawthorn trees to bring bad luck,
and reminds us that memory of the
medieval Glenkens is preserved in
place-names such as Forrest and
Bush.
There were an estimated 60
acres of natural woodland in
Balmaclellan parish where it was
recommended that more trees be
planted to provide animal shelter.
At Carsphairn it was reported that
woods had abounded 150 years
earlier but had been consumed by
the iron smelters. Dalry reported
six miles of natural woods of
considerable extent along the
banks of the Ken, which were still
there 50 years later. There were
also plantations at Earlstoun and
at Todstone, Cleugh, Glenhoul
and Arndarroch, all on the High
Carsphairn Road. Kells could boast
500 acres of natural woodland
scattered over several sites, mostly
oak, ash, birch, alder and hazel, but
deer had vanished from the forest.
By the 1840’s Airds, Kenmure
and Glenlee remained worthy of
remark. The Rev. George Murray
noted the destruction of fine large
specimens of silver fir at Barscobe,
destroyed in the hurricane of 1839.
He also reported the ‘Daffin Tree’
at Killochy, a large ash of unusual
shape, a meeting-place of the
locals. To ‘daff’ was to playfully
pass the time; Daffin Hill is still so
named. He estimated the annual
value of thinnings from plantations
at £40. Carsphairn remained
destitute of wood, while shepherds
were resistant to plantation as
detracting from pasture.
This short discussion about a large
subject has not so much as taken
a single leaf from a mighty oak.
Glenkens is a great place to study
and enjoy woodlands, favoured by
the heritage of the medieval Forest,
the custodianship of past local
landowners and the advances of
modern forestry.
Ted Cowan
Glenkens Gazette
page 18
GLENKENS DIARY...
MAY
Sun 27, Glenkens Acoustic Sessions,
2-4pm, CatStrand
Thurs 31, Chris Larner: An Instinct
For Kindness, 7.30pm, £10/8,
CatStrand
Thurs 31 - Sun 3 June,
Knockengorroch World Ceilidh Festival,
(see article on back page)
Scottish
Alternative
Games
Sunday 5th August
New Galloway Park
2 pm
Admission:
£4 adults, £1 children
JUNE
Sun 24, Glenkens Acoustic Sessions,
2-4pm, free, CatStrand
Fri 1, Rab Noakes & Alan Taylor,
7.30pm, £10/8, CatStrand
Mon 25, Carsphairn CC Meeting,
7pm, Lagwyne Hall
Fri 1, Food for Thought Lunch,
10.30am, £12.50, Cream o’ Galloway,
(see p10)
Mon 25, Balmaclellan CC Meeting,
7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall
Sat 2 – Sat 30, Exhibition: Kevan
McGinty, CatStrand
Sat 2, Carsphairn Show, opens 8am,
Show Dance 9pm
Mon 4, Queen’s Diamond Jubilee
Celebrations, Dalry, (see p5)
Tues 5, New Galloway Jubilee
Celebrations, 2pm, New Galloway,
(see p11)
Fri 8, CatStrand Youth Players,
7.30pm, £5/3, CatStrand
Sun 10, Hillfolk Noir, 7.30pm, £10/8,
CatStrand
Sun 10, Bus trip to Appleby Horse Fair
Sun 10, Giants in the Forest picnic,
(see p3)
Mon 11, Kells CC Meeting, 7.30pm,
New Galloway Town Hall
Fri 15, PIAF, 7.30pm, £10/8,
CatStrand
Sat 16, Mosaic with
Jane Rose, 10am
– 3pm, £40, CatStrand
Wed 20, CatStrand
Open Stage, 7.30pm,
£3/2,CatStrand
Thurs 28, Film: The
Artist, 7.30pm, £5/4,
CatStrand
Sat 23, The Sun, the
Moon & A boy called
River, 7pm, £5/4,
Balmaclellan Village
Hall
Thurs 28, GTI Bus Trip to
Kelvingrove, £6/5, (see p11)
JULY
Mon 2, Dalry CC Meeting, 7pm, Dalry
Town Hall
Tues 3, Mikey & Addie, 1.30pm, £5/4,
CatStrand
Sat 7 July – Thurs 9 Aug,
Exhibition: Clair Melinsky, CatStrand
Mon 9, Kells CC Meeting, 7.30pm,
New Galloway Town Hall
Mon 16, Launch of Glenkens
Children’s Club: Toy Sale, Teas &
Cakes, 9.15am, free, (see p7)
Fri 20, Trad Trails, 7.30pm, £8/6,
CatStrand
Thurs 26, Film: Best Exotic Marigold
Hotel, 7.30pm, £5/4, CatStrand
Sun 29, Glenkens Acoustic Sessions,
2-4pm, FREE, CatStrand
Mon 30, Carsphairn CC Meeting,
7pm, Lagwyne Hall
Mon 30, Balmaclellan CC Meeting,
7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall
AUGUST
Sat 4, Spalding Bowling Club:
Invitation Tournament, (see p2)
Sun 5, Scottish Alternative Games,
2pm, £4/£1, New Galloway Park
Mon 6 to Wed 8, Room 13 Young
Persons Arts Workshop, Dalry Town
Hall (see p2)
What’s Special About the
Glenkens?
What should visitors go and see?
What do you love most?
What are its unique qualities?
What makes people come back again
and again, or decide to move here
permanently?
Various groups are coming together with the aim of promoting
the Glenkens as a whole and we would value any thoughts and
ideas you have. Get in touch with me here at the Gazette - see
back page for contact details. We’d love to hear from you!
Photo courtesy of Iain Davidson
April to Nov, Giants in the Forest,
CatStrand
Glenkens Gazette
page 19
JUNE & JULY
REGULAR EVENTS:
The CatStrand
(New Galloway):
Exercise to Music: Mon, 1011am
Guitar Workshop: Mon, 78pm
Children’s Dance Class:
Mon during term time, 3.454pm age 3-7, 4.30-5.30pm
age 8-15
Carers Coffee & Chat: Tues,
10am-12noon
Teen Spirit: Tues during
term time, 7.30-9.30pm
Sing it Out: Thurs, 11.30am
-12.30pm
Pilates: Thurs, 4.15-5.15pm
& 5.30-6.30pm
Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri
each month, 2pm
Family Film Club: 1st Sat
each month, 11am
Saturday Art Club: 2nd Sat
each month, 10am–12noon
Catstrand Youth Players:
Sun during term time, 2pm
Glenkens Acoustic
Sessions, last Sunday of the
month, 2-4pm
Glenkens
Various Locations:
Community Centre Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm,
(Dalry):
New Galloway Scout Hut
Contact: Kath on 430 281
Glenkens Playgroup: MonFri, 9.15-11.45am until Wed
4 July (contact - Julie 01644
460 687)
Glenkens Children’s Club:
Mon & Fri, 9.15-11.45am
from Mon 16 July
Paint & Art: Mon, 1.304.30pm & Wed, 7-9pm
Ballroom & Latin Dance
Class: Mon, 7.15, for more
info call Sam Rushton on 420
672
Good Neighbours Club:
Tues, 2pm
Kickback Martial Arts: Tues
& Thurs, 7-9pm, both adults
& children welcome
Glenkens Mother &
Toddlers: Fri, 1.30-3pm until
Mon 16 July
Thursday Craft Group:
Thurs, 2-4pm
Brownies: Wed, 5.306.45pm
Guides: Tue during termtime, 6.15pm, contact: Kath
430 281
Dalry Library (Tel: 430 234)
Tue: 2-4.30pm then 5.30-7.30pm
Fri: 11:15am-1:15pm then 2-4.30pm
There are 23 mobile library stops - to find out where and when call 430 234
CHURCH OF SCOTLAND
Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon 1st
(Jul), Carsphairn: 10.30am 1st(Jul) 2nd
3rd 4th, Dalry: 9am 1st(Jul) 2nd 3rd 4th,
Dalry: 10.30am 1st(Jun) 5th(Jul), Kells:
10.30am 2nd 3rd 4th
Special Services/Events:
Sun 3 June, 10.30am: United Service for
Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, Dalry Church
Mon 11 June, 10.30am: Conventicle at
Earlstoun Castle with Hungarian visitors
Mother & Toddlers: Tues,
9.45-11.15am, New Galloway
Town Hall
Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm,
New Galloway Scout Hut
Dog Training: Tue, 7pm,
Dalry Town Hall. Contact: Eric
on 460 670
Stewartry Camera Club:
Wed, 7.30pm, The Tolbooth,
Kirkcudbright
Zumba: Wed: 7.30-8.30pm,
New Galloway Town Hall, £4
Mossdale Painters: Wed,
9.30am, Mossdale Village Hall
Cub Scouts: Wed, 6.45–8pm,
New Galloway Scout Hut
Thursday Lunch Club:
12.30pm, New Galloway Town
Hall, fortnightly, £3, contact:
Raymond: 420 451
Lions Club monthly quiz:
alternating between The
CatStrand & Lochinvar Hotel,
contact: Andrew on 420 323
ADVERTISE
WITH US!
(prices are per issue)
6cm x 6cm: £31.50 (10%
series discount)
1/4 page (9cm w x 13cm h):
£68.25 (25% series discount)
1/2 page (18cm w x 13cm h):
£126 (25% series discount)
Full Page (18cm w x 27cm h):
£210 (25% series discount)
Communion Service: 6 May, Sun
1 Jul, 10.15am, Carsphairn Church (using
central table)
Call 07727 127 997
SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL
CHURCH: St Margaret’s, New
Galloway: Holy Communion - 10.30am
every Sun & Wed
USEFUL NUMBERS:
CATHOLIC CHURCH
SERVICES: Gatehouse of Fleet:
Sat, 6pm. Kirkcudbright: Sun, 9.30am.
Dalbeattie: Sun, 11am
● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000
● Local Police: 0845 600 5701
● Doctor: 01644 420 234
● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24
● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000
Glenkens Gazette
page 20
Spring is here and
there are more and
more gorgeous
photographs
coming in for our
Photo of the Issue
competition.
This issue’s winner is Jayne
Grimwood with a stunning
photo of sunrise at Loch Ken
(left), and she wins a meal
for two at the Clachan Inn.
For next issue’s competition
the prize will be a meal for
two at the Lochinvar Hotel,
so get snapping - there
are lots of great summer
events coming up!
This year
Knockengorroch’s
World Ceilidh Festival
will have a new event
showcasing local
talent to add to its
international line-up.
Local musician Calum Gilligan
A new venue - the Dionysia tent
- has been created which, from
3-5pm on Sunday June 3rd, will
host some of the
areas hottest new
and established
singer-songwriters.
And four of them are
from the Glenkens...
The line-up
includes Blue, from
Laurieston, a wellknown and wellloved established
local musician;
Sarah Ade, from
Dalry, a regular
at the CatStrand
Open Stage; Zoe Bestel, from
Wigtown who, at just 14 made
her debut performance last year
at the Alternative Games in
New Galloway; Calum Gilligan,
another Glenkens musician
who, having played in bands
for years, is now performing
as a solo artist and wowing
crowds all over Scotland; and
last but definitely not least Sally
Campbell, from Balmaclellan,
a firm favourite on the festival
circuit both nationally and
internationally.
Featuring acts from across the
world Knockengorroch festival
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
AUG/SEPT COPY DEADLINE: Fri 6 July
World Ceilidh 2011
Local Line-up for World Ceilidh
director Liz Holmes says it’s “a
bigger festival in a smaller pot!”
She goes on to say: “There is so
much talent in Galloway and we
are delighted to be hosting these
gifted local musicians.”
So come along to
Knockengorroch on
Sunday afternoon, 3-5pm,
to see this showcase of
great local musical talent.
Visit www.knockengorroch.or
g.uk or call 01644 460 662 to
find out more or buy tickets.
To arrange car-pooling to the
festival, get in touch with the
CatStrand on 01644 420 374.
Design & co-ordination:
Sarah Ade
sarah_ade@tiscali.co.uk
Printing:Stranraer &
Wigtownshire Free Press
www.stranraer-freepress.co.uk
The Glenkens Gaze�e is an ini�a�ve of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Sco�sh 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 70
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
GG_070
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
2012
Description
An account of the resource
Editor: Sarah Ade