8 10 430 https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/217/GlenkensGazette71.pdf 232eda9a2bfe523ef8924f2a12e8fbed 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 71 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry August/September 2012 ISSUE 71 FREE Malawi Cycle Fundraiser Ian Knox from Dalry is planning a 250 mile fundraising cycle across Malawi. Ian hopes to raise £4,000 in donations which will go towards the £50,000 goal of this year’s cycle ride in aid of Primary Healthcare Projects in Mulanje. Ian says: “The story that sums up my reason for undertaking this fundraising venture is from Simon Gilliebaud. He says: ‘There was a huge storm that washed thousands upon thousands of starfish onto the beach. A small boy saw their suffering and started throwing some back into the sea. An old man walked past saying why bother, you’ll never save them all, many will die. The boy replied; ‘Tell that to the ones back in the sea. They have new hope, dreams and life’. A little can mean a lot to someone with nothing.” Ian will be one of around 30 people taking part in the David Livingstone Bicentenary Bike Ride run by fundraising charity EMMS International. Ian will be starting this challenging cycle on 10 May next year, hoping to arrive at Mount Mulanje by 18 May 2013. Donations can be made online by visiting: https: //mydonate.bt.com/ fundraisers/ianknox1. In June this year the Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) celebrated its 10th anniversary - a decade on the road and still going strong. On Tuesday 4 June 2002, the first meeting of the GTI committee was held in the Glenkens Community and Arts Trust (GCAT) offices, then situated in what was previously the butcher’s shop on the High Street in New Galloway. The meeting was chaired by Brian Edgar and also present were Gordon Glendenning, Tom Carmichael, Bob Peace, Mary McIlvenna, Margaret Richmond and Godfrey Smith. Later that year the first bus - the white Renault mini bus still in use today having done 128,000 miles - was purchased. In March 2011, thanks to a generous donation, GTI were able to purchase a second mini bus. The demands on their services are steadily increasing, especially now that GTI is one of only two transport initiatives in SW Scotland on the approved tendering list for Council work. Story continued on p3... A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative Brian Edgar, Cathy Agnew, Pete McCarthy and George Prentice at the launch of the first GTI bus, ten years ago. A DECADE ON THE ROAD GTI questionnaire enclosed - see p3 www.glenkensgazette.com page 2 Bookbugs & Book Buffets Being a librarian is a life full of books, but it’s certainly not a life of dull and dusty ones. In May I attended a day of Bookbug Session Training along with about 30 other local librarians. We spent the day singing songs, playing games and listening to stories, all to help us come back to our libraries and be able to share books with kids in the same exciting way. I held my first Bookbug Session at the Library in June with children from Glenkens Playgroup. Over the summer I’m going to be running a Bookbug session on Wednesday 15 August at 10.30am. And on Tuesday 7 August I’ll be running a Storylab Book Buffet for 8-12 year olds; if you want to come along to this, please sign at the Library any Tuesday or Friday. And don’t forget to bring a picnic with you if the weather gets better – because we’ll have our buffet on the lawn outside. Just in case all you bigger folk were feeling left out, there’s the Summer Reading Relay for you. Come in and pick a book from our shelves that you would like to pass on and have a look at what other people are recommending! Hope to see you all at the library soon, Angela Miller, Librarian at Dalry Library AN END AND A BEGINNING Glenkens Playgroup closed its doors for the last time this July. Thanks were given and tears were shed as Julie Moore, who has been playgroup manager for over ten years, was commended for giving local children such a great start. The Playgroup will be sorely missed by parents and children in the Glenkens, especially as this means there is no childcare facility of any kind now for children under three. However, to try to keep something going using the fantastic base the Playgroup has established, Bargatton Sand & Gravel Supplying sand and gravel for all your farming needs, as well as households and businesses both large and small. For further details and contact: Angus Wilson, Quarry Manager 07715 606 685 Email: loch.bargatton@live.co.uk Bargatton Quarry, Laurieston, Castle Douglas, DG7 2PS Open 7 days Mon-Fri Weekends by arrangement Delivery can be arranged - subject to quantity Glenkens Children’s Club (GCC) launched on Monday 16 July in the same premises with the same facilities. This is a parent-run club, and the launch day was a great success. GCC runs on Mondays and Fridays from 9.15am to 11.45am incuding holidays; visit www.glenkenschildrens club.co.uk for details. Daisy with face-painting by Trish Bate at the GCC launch. Angela and children from Glenkens Playgroup Glenkens Gazette Glenkens Gazette page 3 Continued from front page... A journey of this length has obviously had it’s ups and downs, a few little bumps and the odd breakdown, but mostly it is a success story to the benefit of the people of the Glenkens. One thing that hasn’t changed is that Brian and Bob are still to the fore and along with the present committee, and all the volunteer drivers, work hard to keep those wheels turning – thank you; and not a speeding fine between you in 10 years! The way GTI has been financed has changed considerably over the years, and the latest moves are towards being self-sufficient. Income from providing transport for schools and events such as the Spring Fling are therefore essential in order that we can carry on looking after the transport needs of local people. We would be grateful if you could take a few minutes to tell us how we have done, how we can continue to meet your transport needs, and any other Bus users on a GTI trip to Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life, near Coatbridge transport issues you have in the Lillie Carrick: Our regular area (we work very closely with Wednesday evening users were the Council and your views will be sad to hear the death of Lillie from passed on). Please complete the Mossdale. She lived alone and enclosed questionnaire and hand appreciated both the friendship it in to the CatStrand, give it to and help she received when being one of our committee members, or taken to the shops most weeks. give it to the driver on one of your Lillie was the type of person who trips – it is, after all, your transport really benefits from the service initiative, and we value your views. GTI provides, and her laughter Thank You, and personality will be missed. Keith Cooper, GTI Administrator Joyful Jubilee GIVE GOLF Dalry marked the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with a long weekend of celebrations. The village was bedecked with bunting and many houses had entered colourful and inventive displays for the Best Decorated House competition. A bonfire was lit on Mulloch Hill on the Monday evening – one of over 2012 official beacons lit all around the country - over 200 people came to watch, with hot dogs provided to sustain them on the walk. The following day a parish-wide party was held on the school playing fields with a Fancy Dress competition, live music, prize-giving and a hog roast followed by icecreams. In Balmaclellan, the Jubilee was celebrated by a very Dalry’s Mulloch Hill bonfire well attended gathering at Balmaclellan Village Hall on the evening of Saturday 2 June. When all were assembled, a toast to Her Majesty was proposed and met with great acclaim. A barbecue provided by Pringles followed, and, with background music, the associated conviviality continued until after dusk in and around the decoratively lit event tent erected outside the Hall. The event was organised by the Community Council and the Village Hall Committee, and thanks are due to the helpers who contributed to a very enjoyable occasion. A GO Have you ever thought of playing golf but just never got round to it? New Galloway Golf Club is inviting people within the Club catchment to a FREE taster session on Saturday 4 August. Meet in the Clubhouse at 2.30pm for tea/coffee, and bring the kids along to the Junior section gettogether at 3pm. The club will provide you with the necessary equipment, and the taster session will last approximately 1 1/2 hours. And if you like it, then you will be invited to take up our offer of five further sessions for £20. Our aim is to attract new members and the sessions are available only to those within the catchment of New Galloway Golf Club. See our website www.nggc.co.uk or phone Wave Tyrrell on 01644 430 583. Glenkens Gazette page 4 sponsored by EVERYTHING listed in the Glenkens Freecycle section 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 Couch, green leather, 3-seater, as new except one seat cushion missing. Contact: 460 673. Various Samsung colour TV with integral video and DVD player, old but good picture. 50cm wide, 50cm high, 42cm deep, screen 33 x 25cm. Contact: 430 218 15 glass storage jars which hold about 1 – 1 ½ lb of dry food stuffs. Contact: Margaret on 430 463 Quantity of chicken wire suitable for rabbit proofing etc. Couple of rolls unused. Contact Alan on 07769 680 938 DIY/Home Fittings White Twyford bathroom Daffodil Appeal 2012 Thanks to the generosity of the communities and participating outlets in the Glenkens, £194 was raised for Marie Curie Cancer Care during this year’s Daffodil Campaign. This is an increase in last year’s total, and local volunteer for the charity Natalie Vardey says: “Daffodils are the cheeriest of flowers, appearing as we come out of the dark days of winter. The Daffodil Campaign is a vital part of fundraising and the Glenkens has generously supported it since 1996.” Anyone with good quality clothes they no longer want is encouraged to donate them to the Marie Curie Shop in Dumfries or Newton Stewart, or call 420 634 to arrange a possible collection. pedestal sink with mixer tap. New and unused. Contact: Andi on 430 255. Kitchen extractor fan (surface mounting) with flexihose. (Used). Contact: Andi on 430 255. Small amount of parquet flooring; might do a small entrance hall, or for craft work. Contact Andi on 430 255. WANTED 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 Air Compressor, chainsaws or chainsaw parts, any condition, working or not. Contact: 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. Contact: Mei on 460 528 Terracotta pots, any size/shape. Contact 07807 106 799 KX80 motorbike parts wanted. Contact: Gareth on 460 661. Bunk beds. Contact: Dawn 07774 543 465 Any old woollen clothes jumpers, especially Fair Isle/ patterned, tweeds, tartan, etc. Contact 430 138 Support for Children’s Club This year, the proceeds from the St Margaret’s Ladies Guild tombola stand at the Alternative Games will be in aid of the new Glenkens Children’s Club. Christine Rankin, President of St Margaret’s Ladies Guild, says: “We have helped the Glenkens Playgroup in the past and are delighted to be able to support the new Glenkens Children’s Club by donating the proceeds from our Tombola at the Alternative Games. We wish them much success in their new venture”. New Orphan Centre Needed Our annual coffee morning in aid of Abbas Rest Orphans in Malawi will take place on Saturday 6 October in Dalry Town Hall from 10am to 12noon. We do hope you will support this event, as funds are very badly needed this year more than ever. A new orphan centre will have to be built in Muona as the existing centre has to be vacated by August. It is scheduled to be demolished by the Malawian government as it is in the way of the new road they are building. A piece of land has been purchased but funds are too low for the building to commence, as money is still needed for food and clothing. In the meantime, any children from Muona who are unable to be looked after in the community will have to be relocated for a time to the orphan centre at Chiringa. We do hope to see you at the coffee morning. Thank you Glenkens Gazette page 5 sponsored by In this issue we have a local reader’s personal experience of solar panels. The whole concept of solar power in Scotland, in one of the wettest summers, may seem like a bit of an idiocy, but it could be one of the brightest things you ever do. This certainly has been our experience of solar panels. Last year family talks began on whether, considering the cost of electricity and fuel, we should begin looking into different types of renewable energy. The government had been for some time trying to encourage people to invest in renewable energy, and had come up with a system whereby individuals invested in the equipment needed, and the power companies would pay you a fixed amount per kw of electricity generated from a renewable source, known as a feed in tariff. In addition to this you would have free electricity and what you didn’t use would be exported back into the national grid and you would also be paid for this at the going wholesale electricity rate. It seemed a great deal and certainly more attractive than investing the same amount of money in the average high street bank’s savings account. We looked at wind power, but wind maps showed that we lived in a marginal area and planning constraints could make it difficult. We also looked at building our own hydro scheme, but it seemed to be quite an engineering task as well as a substantial outlay, and so we started to investigate solar power. We phoned a number of companies to see what they offered and finally we were visited by a local company based just outside Dumfries who were able to demonstrate to us how much electricity we would realistically generate. Based on their predictions, it meant that although we would not be generating all our own electricity, we would be cutting our electricity bills substantially, and the Feed in Tariff and savings made would pay us roughly 10% per annum on our expenditure. The average high street bank was paying out a paltry amount for the same investment and they weren’t offering to pay any of your utility bills! So the numbers seemed to work, but was it something we could do? Our property is surrounded by huge, old trees casting shadow on to the roof of the house and, as we constantly have to replace broken slates, it didn’t seem the most sensible place to install solar panels. I have to admit to being quite pleased that they couldn’t go on the roof as I thought that they would detract from what is a beautiful Georgian house. And this is the great thing about solar panels - they can go just about anywhere. You can put them on your outbuildings, your garden shed, or mounted on a frame in your garden. We looked at all the options and decided that our solar panels would be best placed in the paddock next to the house. The convenience of this option meant that we would have to take two extra steps. Firstly, we would have to talk to planning, who insisted on a screen to hide it from the road, and secondly we would have to make it stock proof. After much thought we decided the best way to achieve both needs would be to box in the unit, and we would be left with what looks to most like a wooden shed in our paddock. We have now had our panels for nearly eight months and, as with most things in life, the proof is in the pudding. So far the solar panels have generated in excess of what was predicted. I can’t really remember seeing the sun much this year, but the solar panels obviously have. For anyone still thinking about solar panels let me assure you that you can generate electricity with solar panels up here; admittedly the Feed in Tariff has gone down substantially, but so has the price of the panels. If you are thinking about solar, have another look at the numbers and see if it works for you. It has worked for us and we would definitely recommend it. And one tip: don’t forget to insure them! Sara, Carsphairn Glenkens Gazette page 6 Young Anglers in Dalry With an eye to the future, Dalry Angling Association held a taster day with Dalry School with a view to contributing to the schools Outdoor Learning Experience during the next academic year. occasion no fish were caught, the students enjoyed the experience, with the time going all too quickly before they had to return to school.The Angling Association look forward to supporting the school on future programmes linked to their Outdoor Learning Experiences. Students, along with their teacher, Linda Biggar, met with Nick Banner of Dalry Angling Association for an introduction to fly fishing. The students were first made aware of the safety aspects of river fishing, along with an awareness of wildlife habitats and conservation. Nick then showed them how to assemble a fly rod and the knots used to attach a line and a fly. After some instruction on how to cast a fly, the students spent some time practicing in the field before moving to the river. Although on this others doesn’t Fishing Made Easy than mean you have to stop fishing. John John McCubbing, chairman of the New Galloway Angling Association, would like to highlight the possibilities of fishing for the less able bodied. Being a disabled fisherman himself, John believes that being less physically active suggests using small lochs, which, unlike rivers, are not effected by flooding. Lochs on the side of agricultural land, where the grass is grazed short by livestock, are best as there is less to get bogged down in. In such a wet summer as this, where the rivers are so often in flood, it can be frustrating for anglers who can’t wade 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 www.aileenmcleod.org regularly for surgery, constituency and parliamentary updates into the water or negotiate flooded banks. But John says: “I want to make people aware that if I can still fish after back surgery, with bad eyesight and also being a bit shaky, you can too, and you don’t have to be put off by the wettest June on record!” Outwith his role in the Angling Association, John owns Mossdale Loch, which you can buy tickets for from Mossdale Post Office (450 281). 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 page 7 The House on the Hill Simon Winstanley Architects is a familyrun company with local roots which has spread, like anything with good roots, to encompass a broader area. Starting life as Crallan & Winstanley Architects in 1983, the company completed the transition to Simon Winstanley Architects in 2009. Adam Winstanley, Simon’s eldest son, who works with the firm, says: “The practice specialises in contemporary architecture and energy-conscious design. Having completed a wide range of projects including several award-winning buildings, we have the ability to handle projects of all sizes and to make an imaginative and innovative design responses to every brief.” He goes on to say: “I love designing and working on buildings in the Glenkens as we can see a project from start to finish and deliver a unique building in a beautiful part of the world; and of course it’s the area where I grew up!” A key element of projects is that the firm has worked extensively in South West Scotland for over 25 years. This experience means that they know what a building needs to stand up to the specific climate of the area. Through a holistic approach, Simon and Adam create a building suited to the individual and their requirements. When we look at Simon’s own house, The Houl (situated on the High Road between Dalry and Carsphairn) which recently won an award for best passive house design from the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS), we can see the love that goes into both the house design and making that house fit into the landscape. Simon says: “As architects, we are passionate about the places we live and work in. Through our work and projects we strive to enhance peoples emotional and physical responses to the places where they live, work and socialise. We aim to lift people’s spirits through the enjoyment of a place while making that place protective, responsive and environmentally sound.” Simon Winstanley’s award-winning Glenkens home, The Houl Glenkens Gazette A Galloway Gallery Zoë Blamire, joint owner of McGill Duncan Gallery, tells us about the much anticipated annual exhibition of Galloway Paintings at her gallery. McGill Duncan Gallery in Castle Douglas is the oldest established independent gallery in Dumfries and Galloway. It was founded by Niall McGill Duncan in 1978. In association with his friend Patrick Bourne, Niall started showing Galloway artists such as the Faed family, Oppenheimer, Hornel and Paterson. Thirty-four years later, the tradition and association with Bourne Fine Art continues with my mother Jill Blamire and me. Once a year, in August, we show an outstanding collection of Galloway and Scottish paintings. Visitors travel from all over the world to buy work and we always look forward to the excitement and buzz that comes with showing such sought-after works. For the opening we always hope for a sunny day but, rain or shine, art buyers flock to the gallery for a glass of Pimms - it’s a wonderful social event! For the rest of the year we have a programme of contemporary exhibitions. There is never a dull moment in the gallery; everything from designing leaflets to our web site is done ‘in house’ by either me or Jill so we have had to learn lots of new skills since we opened. Zoë has recently moved to Parton, and is very much enjoying being part of the Glenkens community. I have one of the best and most scenic drives to work every morning; past Loch Ken with views over to Balmaghie,” says Zoe. “I am also enjoying exploring the area on walks 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. Tel: 01644 430 241 Email: mail@theclachaninn.co.uk www.theclachaninn.co.uk page 8 with my dog Antony, the whippet. The McGill Duncan Gallery are currently preparing for the opening of their show on Saturday 4 August. There will be at least forty Galloway paintings, including work by Charles Oppenheimer, David Gauld, James Faed Junior and William Hanna Clarke. The McGill Duncan Gallery Gallery is open Monday to Saturday, from 10am until 5pm; see ad below for contact details. Jill and Zoë Blamire Glenkens Gazette Glenkens Gazette ‘ Fading Beauty’ by Mary McIlvenna Stewartry Camera Club The Stewartry Camera Club will resume its weekly meetings at 7.30pm on Wednesday 12 September in The Tolbooth, Kirkcudbright. New members and visitors are always welcome. Last season several Glenkens residents had successes in the competitions with Mary McIlvenna winning the Pearce Trophy for the best overall score. Mary also won the Marsden Cup for the best monochrome print with ‘Giving Up’ and John Houfe won the Stansfield Shield for the best landscape print with ‘Blackrock Cottage, Glencoe’. For further information contact David Young 01556 504465 or John Houfe 01644 450 255 page 9 Photo of the Issue This issue’s winner of the Gazette’s Photo of the Issue competition is Fraser Simpson with his stunning ‘Early Morning at Clatteringshaws’. He says;”There can’t be many more spectacular drives to work than this!” Mr Simpson wins a meal for two at the Lochinvar Hotel. The winner of next issue’s competition will recieve a meal for two at New Galloway’s Cross Keys Hotel. APOLLO 5 Lands in Dalry Apollo5, a British capella ensemble whose repertoire extends from classical a capella to retro, jazz and pop, will give a concert in Dalry Parish Church on Friday 17 August at 7.30pm. Apollo5 is part of a charitable foundation, Voces Cantabiles Music, which is runs an innovative education programme aiming to inspire creativity through music. Apollo5 is proud to be working in collaboration with the Red Balloon Learning Centres in the UK. The aim of Red Balloon is the recovery of severely bullied children. The group is working with students to encourage them to grow in confidence and find their voice through singing together. There will be a retiring collection in aid of Dalry Parish Church. During the interval, summer refreshments will be served. Come along and be sure of a warm welcome on the night. So get snapping...! Glenkens Gazette page 10 August/September Come along to the CatStrand and enjoy some of the summer sensations we have on offer. This August, Ayr-based artist Chris Dooks will be in residence over 18/19 August and presenting two events: Vinyl Shangri- La (Saturday 18 August) and Three Hundred Square Miles of Upwards (Sunday 19 August). While he is here he is looking for your help – he wants to record your voice speaking about the night sky. Chris will turn these statements into music for a new sound art piece entitled ‘300 Square Miles of Upwards’ – a work dedicated to the Galloway Dark Sky Park. If you are interested in taking part, please contact CatStrand to book a 15-minute slot. We will be hosting a visit from Heidi Talbot and her very special Friends on Tuesday 4 September. County Kildare singer Heidi will be joined by world renowned producer John McCusker, Orcadian singer/ guitarist Kris Drever and the inimitable guitar playing of Ian Carr. Following his Sony Award winning Radio 4 Comedy show, ‘Mark Steel’s in Town’ and the publication of the book with the same title, writer and comedian Mark Steel is back on the road. And he is coming to New Galloway on Thursday 20 September. Mark will write materials shedding light on the quirky and interesting aspects of every town he visits, allowing each show to be unique. Come along and find out what he uncovers about the Glenkens... A stunning synthesis of virtuosity and energy, The Outside Track’s marriage of Canadian, Scottish and Irish music and song has been rapturously received around the globe, and we look forward to seeing them live at CatStrand on Thursday 27 September. On Sunday 30 September come ‘Allotment’ from Nutshell CatStrand Highlights and experience Theatre al Fresco with this Fringe First awardwinning play from Nutshell. ‘Allotment’ follows the complex and quirky relationship between sisters Dora and Maddy as they live out the seasons on their allotment. Join them for a cup of tea and a scone. The performance will take place in New Galloway Park, whatever the weather, so come prepared. Pick up a programme for full listings, or to book tickets call 01644 420 374 or visit www.catstrand.com 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 Glenkens Gazette page 11 In the next three issues of the Glenkens Gazette we will be interviewing the newly elected councillors for the Glenkens. In this issue we feature George Prentice (Independent). What are your links to the Glenkens? I am originally from the Gatehouse area, but my wife and I came to the Glenkens in 1967, and started farming just outside of the Parton. We stayed there for many years raising three children until 1993, when we moved in to Parton village. What skills do you believe that you bring to your job as councillor? I feel that I am part of the furniture, built in with the bricks. I not only understand the issues that face our community, but I live them. I believe that I have listened to and understand the community’s hopes and aspirations, and equally importantly I feel that they know me. I have had the privilege of representing the people in both Castle Douglas and the Glenkens for quite some time. If experience can be considered a skill, this is the skill that I bring to the job. What do you believe to be the important issues facing the Glenkens at present, and how would you feel they would be best tackled? Community transport, youth employment, and further to this it also seems to me that a lot of our youth successfully get into colleges and universities, but don’t seem to connect with these new and different environments, and return without finishing their courses. Employment in the Glenkens, in general, is another important issue. I have personal experience of this as I have grown-up children who would like to move back to the area, but there are just not the jobs for them. I feel that the best way of tackling this particular issue is to encourage local businesses and attract new business to the area. We as councillors must develop policies, at a local level, which nurture businesses that employ directly from our community. What do you believe are the important issues facing councillors today? It seems to me that national party politics has influenced local government in recent years. Ten years ago there were far more Independent councillors representing the needs and aspirations of the local communities. Today’s council comprises of an SNP/Conservative administration, and I feel that people are voting for a party rather than a person. I am not sure that this is the way forward, but it needs to be proven and the next five years will show this. What changes would you like to see to farming over the next ten years and what local and national policies would you like to see introduced to enable this? Farming and land use in this area are constantly changing, and so are the issues that land owners face. I remember at one time, within a 10 mile radius of Castle Douglas there was the highest number of livestock in the whole country. Today, landowners are trying to make the most productive use of their land, and that has meant that some have invested in timber and wind turbines. This has not always proved to be popular amongst the wider community, but I feel that the most important element is ensuring that these landowners and farmers, and their families, stay in the area and are able to provide a living from their land to sustain both themselves and their families. The Council has declared that it intends to enhance the community transport division. How would you like to see this realised in the Glenkens? I think that here in the Glenkens this means that we are talking about a proper bus service, and by proper a service, I mean one that allows for the youth, pensioners, and those without cars to move about the Glenkens and further afield easily, and link in with the wider transport network. Do you feel that the relaxation of planning in the form of the ‘Smallholding Policy’ in the upper Glenkens has achieved its aim? I am glad that you asked this question as I was driving around the Upper Glenkens yesterday and was considering the question myself. I was a great advocate of this when it was first brought to the table. It has certainly brought more people and new blood into the community, but I must say that it has not perhaps turned out as I envisaged it. I was hoping that it would tackle the problem of the land with derelict buildings whilst continuing to keep the agricultural flavour of the Glenkens. I am not sure that it has achieved that, but that does not mean that it has not been of benefit to the communities. It is an issue I am still considering. George Prentice is happy to meet all constituents by appointment. Tel: 01644 470276; Mobile: 07825 633 158; Email: George.prentice@dumgal.gov.uk by Sara McNeill phil mcmenemy W BONE The Gallery at Laurieston PETROL & DIESEL SALES SERVICE & REPAIRS MOTs, TYRES, BATTERIES Award Winning Photography 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 WHB JEEPS THE GARAGE, DALRY 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 jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 12 OUTDOOR ADVENTURE P7 pupils from the Glenkens stayed at Stronord Outdoor Centre in Kiroughtree forest as part of their preparation for S1 at Dalry School. The hightspot, quite literally, was the Tyrolean Traverse (pupils pictured waiting for their turn). Outdoor Education instructors provided a challenging and entertaining time for all which will not be forgotten. Dalry’s Winning Team On Thursday 7 June we went to the Small Schools Football tournament in Dalbeattie. The team was Jordon, Joshua, Cameron, Craig, Jake and Kyle. Once we got onto the pitch Jordon (our captain) had us train and get our muscles loosened up for the matches. We settled down and waited for John to call us in. The first game that we played was Kirguzeon and it was 8-0 to Dalry. It was really good to start us off with a win. Then we had a break; people from St Peter’s school had offered us food and drinks. We were on next and the school we played were St Peters. This was 1-0 to Dalry and we were not very happy with the score. We had a long break and we finally had our last game in our section. If we won it we knew we would be in the final. We played Colvend and we won 3-1. So that meant we played in the final against Gelston. It started off as 1-1 and then Jordon scored another. Craig made a fantastic save to stop Gelston equalising. The final score was 2-1 to Dalry! Everybody roared wildly. Jordon was so happy that the team had won. We went over to John and we got our medals. Then we got our picture taken and Jordon’s dad and Jake’s mum bought us lots of sweets and we cheered all the way home. by Cameron Wilkie and Jordon Lawrie 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 soon to be installed. 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. • 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 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 13 Netball Report Renewable Energy Every Monday for four weeks Dalry School’s netball team played in the Stewartry netball championship at Crossmichael School. Altogether we played ten games, we played five teams twice. They were Kells, Crossmichael, Springholm, Dalbeattie and Carsphairn. We won them all by quite a lot. Our team is Sabrina Smith captain and goal attack, Emily Wallace - goal keep, Amy McMurray - goal shoot, Cara Ramsay - wing defence, Emily Bigger - goal defence, Jordan Lawrie - centre, and Joshua Lawrie - wing attack, Annabelle McAdam - sub wing defence, and Cameron Willkie - sub wing attack. All of these people make a great team. But the most important person was Mrs McCall, our coach - we couldn’t have done it without her. We won all of our ten games but our second last game was very Excursion S1 pupils at Dalry School have been studying Climate Change as part of the weather topic in Geography. exciting because the goal defence was taken off injured and we were down to six players. So Emily had to cover two people. Mrs McCall called her a little octopus. After we had played all our games we listened to the prize giving. Carsphairn were the best improved team. They played amazingly for such a small school. We won the trophy and we were very happy as we tried really hard. Thank you Mrs. McCall for being a great coach! By Sabrina Smith and Emily Wallace JUBILEE The pupils at Kells enjoyed a ‘Street Party Lunch’ to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Unfortunately the Queen was rather busy that day so Mrs McIntosh, the Queen of Glenkens, took her place as guest of honour. In the afternoon the pupils were organised in mixed ability groups to undertake a variety of Jubilee inspired activities. GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL  01644 420234  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 In order to further their understanding of this topic they visited Steven’s Croft and Tongland power stations where in each case power is made from renewable energy sources. Pupils had an interesting talk at Steven’s Croft, a Biomass power station, on the construction and operation of the plant. This biomass plant uses locally sourced wood products to generate electricity. Tongland power station uses water to make electricity; once again, a renewable energy source with low carbon emissions. It is one of a number of stations along the Ken-Dee valley which sources water from a series of dams which catch and store the water which is used to drive the turbines at the power stations. By the end of the trip pupils felt they had a clearer understanding of the way renewable sources are used to produce electricity and that if we are to halt the process of climate change we need to look for sustainable alternatives to the burning of fossil fuels to provide our energy sources such as those encountered on their trip. TUTORING Maths, Physics or Chemistry For Standard Grades & Highers or other areas. Personable Oxford graduate now available to tutor in New Galloway. Flexible times to suit you. First class degree in Engineering from University College, Oxford (1998) £20 per hour, initial half hour consultation free. Contact Helen Keron on 01644 420 656 or keronh@me.com Glenkens Gazette page 14 Kilquhanity Primary School to Re-Open Kilquhanity House School ran from 1940 until 1996 and was Scotland’s first ‘free school’, and its only one to date. The school ran successfully for many years and was highly acclaimed by parents and students alike. Families from both the neighbourhood and far afield sent their children to the school. The Kilquhanity Estate was purchased in 2002 by a Shinichiro Hori who was a great friend of Kilquhanity founder John Aitkenhead. Shinichiro runs four schools in Japan based on the ‘free school’ principles. His schools bring Japanese students to Kilquhanity every year to study English, Science, Sport, Art and Crafts as well as becoming involved with Scottish and British culture. It has always been Shinichiro’s intention that Kilquhanity should be re-opened as a school in its own right again, and that wish is nearer to fruition than at any time in the past 10 years. Several local families are hoping that a new primary school can open in the next year, with other families around Scotland intending to move to the area if this is realised. The school will run along the same principles that were so successful previously, and provide education through action and freedom of learning. If you are interested in finding out more about what Kilquhanity has to offer, come along to the family day we have planned this summer – see the ad on the back page of this Gazette. And for three days afterwards we are running a Summer Camp for primary-aged children. The programme will be delivered in the style and manner of Kilquhanity with aspects of real democracy, freedom and choice in learning and in teaching. If you wish to join in this fun/learning event please use the same contacts as for the Family Day (on back page). Dear Gazette, Our mother died in 1999 and since then we have been trying to piece together our family genealogy, without much success. Our mother, Mary Elizabeth Carruthers, was born on 20th December 1925 at Little Duchrae, Balmaghie, to parents William John Carruthers and Janet Clark. John and Janet were married in Dalbeattie in 1919, and both died around 1940 at Little Duchrae. William John Carruthers’ parents were William Carruthers and Isabella Kerr, Janet Clarks’ parents were Michael Clark and Nicholas Brown - both Michael and Nicholas died in Dalbeattie. Other then what we have given above, we have come to a dead end. We would love to have any information about the family, or hear from any relatives that are still around. We are trying to locate our mother’s parents’ graves so that we can finally reunite her with them. Many thanks, Johanna Costner and Yvonne Jorgensen 6 Far End, St James, Northampton, NN5 5FN Email: jomjorg@yahoo.com or Tel: 07837 347 135 GIRL GUIDE ACTIVITY ADVENTURE The Glenkens Guides visited Galloway Activity Centre (GAC) as part of a nationwide Guide event. On Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 June, four local girls from the Glenkens Guides took part in a national Girl Guides weekend hosted by GAC. In total over 350 guides from around Scotland took part in the Girl Guides raftting at GAC event. Dreadful June weather brought heavy rain on the Saturday, but in true Girl Guide spirit, the mood wasn’t to be dampened. The girls were soon stuck in and trying their hand at various outdoor sports that included sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, laser quest, archery, orienteering, mountain biking and climbing. The event was one of the biggest the Galloway Activity Centre has hosted in its 25 year history, and for the first time in its existence the centre was closed down especially to cater for the Guide group. The team of 15+ GAC instructors ensured that activities ran smoothly and the Guides were kept in good spirits throughout the weekend. Val Clark of Girlguiding Scotland said: “A huge thank you to GAC for all your efforts at the weekend. I was only able to visit for a short time but it was evident that the girls were having a great time. It’s such a pity the weather was so bad on Saturday!” Summer is now upon us and GAC hosted one of its biannual open days on Sunday 1 July. This was by far the best attended open day the centre has hosted over the past decade. Always a popular day with the locals, activity tickets are purchased for £2 on a have a go basis. GAC’s Kieran Patterson said: “It was so great in both the open day and Girl Guide weekend to see local young people and families experience what the center has to offer. We have such a great facility here that locals can use and enjoy. We offer so much more than just sailing and the open days are a great way of spreading this message.” Glenkens Gazette page 15 CatStrand Youth Players The Youth Players rounded off another very successful season with a performance to a packed house at the CatStrand on Friday 8 June. The evening involved all members of the group and the first half consisted of a series of short comedy sketches which had been chosen by the members themselves. The second half was a performance of ‘The Benares Incident’ by Harry Glass, telling the story of the children who were being evacuated to Canada during WW2 on the SS City of Benares. The show also provided a valuable opportunity for some of the older members to try their hand at producing and directing. Some of the members also enjoyed a day at the Ryan Centre in Stranraer on Saturday 16 June to take in the Scottish Youth Final of the One Act Play Festival. The Youth Players narrowly missed out on a place at the finals themselves when they were pipped into second place by Greenock Youth Players at Kilmarnock in March. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the experience nevertheless and although the final could really have been won by any of the finalists, the eventual Scottish Champions were Fintry Youth Theatre from Stirlingshire with ‘Beware the Jabberwock’ by Ron Nicol. The Youth Players will now break for the summer and meetings will start again on Sunday 2 September at 2pm. Membership has grown steadily since they were formed four years ago, and at the moment membership is at a maximum. However, anyone who is keen to join should still add their name and contact details to the waiting list at the CatStrand and as soon as there are any vacancies you will be informed. Monday 11 June dawned dull and chilly with occasional spots of rain in the wind. This, however, did not deter a good gathering from assembling by the Burning Bush Covenanter Memorial in Dalry. Among their number were fourteen guests from Debrecen in Hungary, including Rev Sandor Karcza who was the guest of Rev Dr David Bartholomew, and who had preached at both Kells and Dalry the previous day. Dr Bartholomew welcomed everyone and gave a short talk on the activities of Covenanters in the Dalry area, and the events which led up to the Pentland Rising in 1666. A long convoy of vehicles then left Dalry by the Carsphairn High Road and made for Earlstoun Castle where some sixty chairs had been placed by the young oak tree. A very special tree, this is a seedling from the once splendid Earlstoun Oak which had served as a hiding place for Sir Alexander Gordon when the Dragoons had come searching the Castle policies for him some 350 years ago. Dr Bartholomew told of the persecution of the people of Dalry and the Glenkens in general where heavy fines were imposed for non-attendance at church. The Gordon family of Earlstoun were great supporters of the Covenanters and as a result they were to suffer much persecution during the Killing Times. Alexander Gordon, known as the Bull of Earlstoun on account of his great strength, managed to evade capture on many occasions. He was warned of the approach of some dragoons in one instance and he promptly donned the clothes of a labourer. When the dragoons arrived they found the ‘labourer’, assisted by a servant girl, cutting logs. When Rev Dr David Bartholomew leading the singing at the 2012 conventicle. 2012 CONVENTICLE they asked if he knew the whereabouts of Alexander Gordon, he enthusiastically helped them with a search of the castle! The convoy of vehicles then made it’s way back to Dalry where a short stop was made at the Kirkyard to look at the Covenanter’s grave, and also at the recently unveiled memorial to Sir Alexander Gordon. A number of the gathering then repaired to the Ken Bridge Hotel where a good lunch of haggis, neeps and tatties was very much enjoyed by all. Interestingly, the Hungarian visitors told us they also have a dish very similar to haggis in their country. Helen Bolton 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 Family and friends coming to stay? Short of space? Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 or 07789 903127 Glenkens Gazette page 16 Charity Quiz Nights OSCAR’S Every Wednesday evening The Cross Keys Hotel in New Galloway holds a quiz with all proceeds going to the charity or project of the winner’s choice. Shown here is Susan O`Hare with some of the regular quiz players, with a few of the many `thank you’ letters received from local and national charities benefiting from their share of the £4000 raised over the last three years. So, if you support a charity, playgroup, church or project that you would like to win the weekly prize – get a team together and join in every Wednesday night at 8.30pm. STORY Since the publication on The Cross Keys Hotel website of ‘Oscars Story’, Cross Keys’ canine residents Oscar and Lily (pictured) have received so many treats from customers and hotel guests that they are now seriously having to watch their weight! To take the temptation away many of the treats, in addition to hundreds of pounds raised from some of the Wednesday Quiz Nights, will go to helping dogs less fortunate than them. Below are a couple of short excerpts from ‘Oscar’s Story’ - to read the full story, visit www.thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk. ... The honorary Pack Leader Alpha One - allowed to use the title only because she supplies food, treats, walks, kisses and has her life generally ruled by me – is taking dictation and typing up my memoirs. ... I would be described as suave, grey - in a distinguished kind of way - single minded (or bloody minded if you listen to Alpha One) and a fine figure of a dog. The Cross Keys Hotel New Galloway We have 10 cosy en-suite bedrooms with TV/ DVD/Radio and tea and coffee making facilities, a traditional bar with a good selection of Real Ales, Malts and a welcoming log fire and an excellent restaurant specialising in fresh, local produce. We have wi-fi access, drying facilities, secure bike storage, off road parking for motorbikes, firearms safe... and lots of local knowledge! We welcome well-behaved and ‘dog friendly’ dogs. Traditional Hospitality at its Very Best Every Monday, 7.15pm, Texas Hold ‘em Poker Every Wednesday, 8.30pm, fundraising quiz Every Friday, Fish Friday, fish meal for £8.95 Tel: 01644 420 494 Email: enquiries@thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk www.thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 17 Battlefield Visit SKIES SHINING BRIGHTLY Fifteen pupils and four staff from Dalry School visited the battlefields of Flanders and the Somme at the end of June. Pupils at Theipval Memorial The tour brought home the horrors of war, as we travelled through a landscape peppered with cemeteries large and small; the small having only hundreds of graves. Then came the memorials to the missing, with fifty thousand here and seventy thousand there – the sheer scale of the losses was difficult to comprehend. Three of Dalry’s pupils were able to pay their respects at graves or memorials to their relatives and a number of men from the Glenkens were ‘found’ and recorded for the school records. Set in the rugged and hilly depths of the south west of Scotland, the Forest Park is the largest of its kind in Britain, covering a massive 300 square miles. In 2009 the area was awarded Dark Sky Park status by the International Dark Sky Association, an organisation based in the United States. This coveted award was the first outside the USA. To achieve this status, the Forestry Commission (FC) took the bull by the horns and worked hard to overcome a number of tests and regulations. With the support of local groups, lighting experts, businesses and the community, FC Scotland produced a plan to ensure Galloway’s skies remained pitch black – the best condition for viewing distant galaxies. Part of the selection process for Dark Sky Park status involved getting a rating via a sky quality meter; the higher the reading (up to 25) the better for stargazers. In a city the reading would be around 15, 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 but in Galloway they achieved a reading of 23, giving the area a ‘Gold Tier’ status - the highest you can get. It’s ironic that one of the perceived weaknesses of the area is actually a strength when it comes to stargazing. The skies above Galloway are so clear thanks to its heavy rainfall because rain dampens down dust in the atmosphere and helps astronomers get a clearer view. The area’s reputation for outdoor enthusiasts is growing. Galloway is rich in walking trails and wild scenery and more recently for its fantastic mountain biking. It is famous for being an uncrowded and peaceful place, rich in wildlife and stunning scenery, with 120 km of walking trails, 200 km of cycling routes. But don’t just take our word for it - there are a number of events being led by Forestry Commission Scotland in Galloway to help you experience the amazing night sky we have here. Details of forthcoming events can be found at www.forestry.gov.uk/ darkskygalloway. Glenkens Gazette page 18 AGNES COOKS… CHICKEN Chicken, in one form or another, is a staple of many household meals, providing lots of possibilities and endless combinations. Buying chicken also offers many possibilities, and when looking at the cost of buying chicken it is clearly cheaper to buy a whole bird than joints. However, many people are not happy to tackle jointing a whole bird. What I would like to suggest is a compromise to jointing a whole uncooked chicken and that is jointing a fully cooked, poached chicken. This offers all the economy of buying a whole bird without the need for sharp knives and plasters, and there are many recipe options for using the cooked meat and the lovely rich stock. To cook the chicken, place it in a large pot. Add a roughly chopped onion, two carrots, two celery stalks, a bay leaf and some salt and pepper. Cover with water, place on the heat and as soon as it comes to the boil reduce to a low simmer. You need to cook it VERY gently as you are poaching it not boiling it. (Boiling will make it tough). The timing is difficult to specify as it depends on the size and weight, but allow about 45 to 60 minutes for a medium-sized chicken. Test it as you would when roasting a chicken; remove the bird from the water and insert a skewer into the leg joint to test if the juices run clear. This indicates that the bird is cooked, but if there is any sign of blood put it back in the pot and cook a little longer. When cooked, remove the bird and cool. Put the stock to one side as you will be adding the carcass and bones to it later. It is a good idea to remove the meat from the chicken as soon as it is cool enough to handle; if it is too cold it is more difficult. Gently remove the wings in one piece and set aside after cutting off the small tips and putting them back into the stock pot. Remove the legs and either cut through the joint, which is very easy to do when cooked, and keep as thigh and drumstick pieces or strip the meat from the bones. Place a knife down the breastbone and remove each breast in one piece. Place the bones and carcass back in the pot; the stock can then be brought back to the boil and gently simmered for a couple of hours. The stock can provide the base for many delicious soups, risottos and gravies. There are many possibilities for using the meat - poaching the chicken means that the meat remains very moist and it will In Chinese restaurants the chicken is cooked this way before stir frying, so using the chopped breast meat in a stir fry is one option; making Fajita’s is another. As the breast meat is very moist it is particularly good eaten cold in salads and sandwiches. Kept on the bone, the leg and thigh meat work well in curries and can be added to make a quickly cooked casserole. If you have taken the meat off the bones it is very tasty in a chicken pie. This meat also works well cold in coronation chicken and hot in many pasta dishes; one of my favourites is chicken and mushroom in a creamy sauce. The chicken wings can be made into a lovely sticky wings treat. Put them into a dish and marinate for a few hours in a mixture of two tablespoons of orange juice, three tablespoons soy sauce, two tablespoons honey, and some salt and pepper. Put onto a baking tray and cook at about 200°C for 15 to 20 minutes, basting with the remaining marinade several times during cooking. FHB Fencing Glenkens Eggs Dalry Domestic and Agricultural Fencing New Galloway 01644 420 471 Glenkens Eggs would like to support the Glenkens Gazette. withstand further light cooking. 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. 01644 430 495 495 (Peter) or 07767 795 498 (Jonathan) Glenkens Gazette page 19 MONIAIVE CHOCOLATIERS With great anticipation the ladies of Carsphairn Scottish Women’s Rural Institute (SWRI) set off for their evening drive and entertainment. We were off to visit Liz Cole and the Moniaive Chocolatiers! The Chocolatiers are situated in what used to be the Post Office. Plastic pinnys and elegant disposable blue hairnets were donned before entering the workshop and we were fortified with a glass of hot chocolate with toppings of our choice – delicious! Liz spoke with huge enthusiasm about chocolate and her craft. There were three tempering machines (they keep the chocolate at the right temperature for working with) containing dark, milk and white chocolate. She showed us how the moulds were filled - first lined with chocolate, then filled with her fruit filling and finally covered to complete the chocolate. In the background Colin, one of the chocolatiers, was putting the ‘tartan’ on chocolate bars. The finished product looked fantastic, with green and purple stripes, and they were heading to the Scottish Parliament. On the noticeboard were three orders for wedding favours – a great idea and you can choose the colours to match your own GLENKENS PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP (GPG) GPG members John McBeth and John Smith in action The group has been out on several photo shoots since forming in early May. New ideas and new members are very welcome. If you are interested in joining the group or wish further information, please contact Mary Mcllvenna on 01644 420 613 or marymcilvenna@ rocketmail.com. Some dates for your diary are: Thurs 2 Aug, 8pm: Threave Castle. Tues 14 Aug, 7pm: Dalry Church and River. Tues 28 Aug, 7pm: Clatteringshaws. Tues 11 Sept, 7.30pm: Ken Bridge Hotel Meeting. tartan. What fun we had, and how interesting it was. We were fifteen in number and so we weren’t all able to get our hands covered in chocolate, but we all got a taste. Liz is a wonderful example of someone who not only has brilliant ideas and enthusiasm but has also manifested them into a very successful business providing local employment. The ladies from Carsphairn thank her very much and wish her great success. We do lots of interesting things at Carsphairn Rural. SWRI is a great place for learning all sorts of new things, having fun and finding support and friendship in your community. Like all organisations we look to the next generation to bring new ideas and energy so that we can continue to make a positive contribution to rural life in Scotland. So come on your own, or with a friend, and try us out! 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 Glenkens Gazette page 20 THE DALRY WAR MEMORIALS At first it may seem odd that Dalry has two war memorials, but it is actually more common than you might think. Dalry’s War Memorials are a Celtic granite cross at the entrance to the church and a large wooden board inside the Town Hall. At the end of the First World War, communities all around Europe began to feel the need to make some permanent memorial to remember their war dead. Many of the parishes had maintained a Roll of Honour, often in the parish church, to list those (usually men) who were away on war duties; when news came in that a man had been killed, a mark was put against his name to show that he had died. By the end of the war, the church then had a Roll of Honour listing the men who had served and an annotation of those who had died and this often then formed the basis of information used by the War Memorials Committee. In Dalry’s case, we do not know what happened to the original Roll of Honour but we do know that all of the names were carefully painted onto a large wooden panel which was placed in the Town Hall. Unfortunately I have not been able to find any details of when this memorial was created, but my personal view is that it was possibly in late 1919 or in 1920. The Town Hall memorial was later changed following the Second World War by the addition of extra panels with the WW2 names. Of the granite cross outside the church, we know a little more. Like most civic war memorials, this one is more permanent in nature and lists only those who died and does not include those who served and returned. The memorial was unveiled in September 1921, it was designed and executed by Mr R W Mackenzie of Newton Stewart and is made from Creetown granite. It always makes a memorial more meaningful for me to focus on an individual, so let’s look at the first man on the granite cross at the church. Robert James Clark was the son of Hugh and Esther Clark and lived at Craigielea, Main Street, Dalry. He was a joiner and worked with his father, but he is also listed on the Castle Douglas Post Office memorial as a Temporary Postman. He had two brothers and four sisters, his brother Hugh also served but returned safely - after the war Hugh was a postman in Dalry until 1957 when he retired to become a lighthouse keeper. In 1960 Hugh was found murdered in the lighthouse. Robert joined the 6th Battalion, the Gordon Highlanders, in January 1916, went to France in July and earned the British War and Victory medals. He was killed in November the same year at the age of just 20. When we look into other memorials like this, we sometimes find puzzles and from the memorial in the Town Hall I have two. John McDougall of the Ayrshire Yeomanry is recorded on the memorial as having been killed. However, the Stewartry Roll of Honour merely records that he served on the Eastern Front and was wounded in 1917. Having searched military as well as civilian death records of the period and local obituaries, I cannot find him and the most likely explanation for this is that he did not die in the war and the Town Hall memorial entry as is in fact a mistake. Alex Fordyce (no Regiment given) is proving impossible to find. He is not listed in the Stewartry Roll of Honour or in local obituary notices. It is odd that neither of the above are named on the granite memorial outside of the church. If you can add anything to our knowledge of the memorials or the men commemorated, please contact Paul Goodwin on 07973 174342 or memorials@paulgoodwin.me.uk. You can find more information about these and other local war memorials on the Scottish War Memorial Project at http://tinyurl.com39u8g8. Cllr Finlay Carson Castle Douglas & Glenkens for an appointment Tel: 07825 633 185 or email: finlay@finlaycarson.co.uk www.finlaycarson.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 21 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN The Battle That Never Was? There is very little documentation of the event, which probably took place in June when Bruce with some 300 men, organized an ambush as the enemy passed along the loch shore. Some historians have described the affair as a skirmish and at least one has doubted if it was a Bruce victory at all. On the opposite side of the loch a massive granite boulder marks the event. Some ten miles to the east, as the proverbial crow flies, there is another older boulder which claims to signify another Bruce victory, at Moss Raploch beside Clatteringshaws Loch, in the parish of Kells. Knowledge of this event seems to rely purely upon tradition, relating that it took place shortly before Glen Trool, with which it may have been confused. At one time the conflict was known as the Battle of Craigencallie. All who are interested in the life of Robert Bruce will eventually peruse the lengthy heroic poem, The Brus, composed in Scots in the 1370s by John Barbour, archdeacon of Aberdeen. Barbour is an old Ayrshire/Galloway name and it is of note that the poem contains a number of traditionary tales about Bruce’s activities in the southwest, which the poet could have heard from family members or relatives. For example a traitorous, one-eyed Ayrshireman and his two treacherous sons attempt to surprise Bruce at his morning ablutions. The king rewards the father with an arrow through his single eye while he brains the sons. In a further tale Bruce is pursued by bloodhounds; in another he singlehandedly kills 14 assailants at a ford. Historically Bruce was based in the Glen Trool area between April and June 1307 but he could have been anywhere in the wild Galloway Forest. In the stories his chief enemies were the men of Galloway, followers of the deposed John Balliol and of John Comyn who was murdered by Bruce at Dumfries. The tales blossomed over the centuries. Barbour has Bruce meet an unnamed ‘goodwife’ who presents him with the services of her two sons. This may be the germ which grew into the legend of the widow of Craigencallie who gave Bruce food and shelter and offered her three sons, by three different husbands, to his cause. The sons were later rewarded with the Cumloden estate for their subsequent loyalty and for recommending to the king, on learning that the English were at Moss Raploch, that his men round up wild and tame horses, as well as goats, to provide the appearance and sound of a large army. The T. H. CARSON BUTCHERS N ew Galloway Golf Club Founded Foun ded 1902 www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk v 01644 420737 v Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME 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 English, unnerved by the allnight din, broke when attacked at daybreak. According to 17th century testimony, “there is a very big stone in the centre of the flow, which is called the King’s Stone to this day, to which he leaned his back, till his men gathered up the spoil”; an account that reeks of invention. More convincing is the information, if true, that many weapons had recently been found in the moss by peat-cutters. Tradition may be invincible but no historian would accept the veracity of the Raploch battle in the absence of hard evidence. When the Earl of Mar, who claimed lineal descent from Bruce, learned in 1927 that Clatteringshaws farm would shortly be drowned under the reservoir, he purchased it for £1,200. His asking price from the Hydro was £4,500 so demonstrating that the plundering instincts of the Scottish aristocracy were alive and well! He eventually settled for £1,900 and his retention of Bruce’s Stone with five yards round about it to ensure that it was not engulfed by the waters. In 1932 he donated the stone to the National Trust. The bold beget victories but at Moss Raploch perhaps a boulder inspired a phantom battle. Ted Cowan Bruce’s Stone, copyright of Padeapix Historic Scotland has produced an Inventory of Scottish Battlefields. It is surprising that Galloway, a region with a notably violent past, is credited with only one site Glentrool (1307) - where Robert Bruce won the first victory in his campaign to wrest control of Scotland from the English. Glenkens Gazette page 22 AUGUST & SEPTEMBER JULY Sun 29, Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, 24pm, CatStrand AUGUST runs until Thurs 9, Exhibition: Clair Melinsky, CatStrand Wed 1, Film: The Muppets, 2pm, CatStrand Thurs 2, Glenkens Photography Group, 8pm, Threave Castle, see p19 Fri 3, The Alternative Quiz Night, New Galloway Town Hall, 7.30pm Sat 4, Spalding Bowling Club: Invitation Tournament Sat 4, Golf Taster Session, 2.30pm, New Galloway Golf Club, see p3 Sat 4, Glenkens on Film, 7.30pm, CatStrand, New Galloway Sun 5, Scottish Alternative Games, 2pm, New Galloway Park Aug 5, Summer Sunday, 2–8pm, Kilquhanity Primary School, see back page Mon 6 - Wed 8, Room 13 Young Persons Arts Workshop, Dalry Town Hall, see back page Tues 7, Storylab Book Buffet, Dalry Library, see p2 11th Aug – 2nd Oct, Exhibition: Silvana McLean- Northlandings, CatStrand Glenkens Agricultural Society Annual Show Saturday 11th August Mains of Kenmure, New Galloway Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Poultry, Horses, Show Jumping, Fancy Dress Pony, Pets & Dogs, Crookmaking, Stalls, Refreshments, Soccerena & Entertainment Schedules from Fiona McIntyre: 01848 200 531 or fiona_mcintyre@hotmail.co.uk Sun 12, Debussy to Jazz, 7.30pm, CatStrand Mon 13 – Thurs 16, Silvana McLean Summer Art Masterclass, CatStrand Tues14, GPG, 7pm, Dalry Church & River, see p19 Wed 15, Bookbug Session, 10.30am, Dalry Library, see p2 Wed 15, Theory, Refreshing Self-help & Health Awareness Taster, 10-5pm, CatStrand Sat18, Vinyl Shangri- La, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sun 19, Three Hundred Square Miles of Upwards, 3pm, CatStrand Wed 22, Open Stage, 7pm, CatStrand Sat 25 & Sun 26, Animal Reiki L1, 10.30-4pm, CatStrand Sun 26, Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, 2-4pm, CatStrand Tues 28, GPG, 7pm, Clatteringshaws, see p18 SEPTEMBER Fri 21 – Sun 23, Dalry Bird Festival, Dalry, see back page Tues 11, GPG, 7.30pm, Ken Bridge Hotel Meeting, see p19 Tues 4, Heidi Talbot & Friends, 7.30pm, CatStrand Thurs 6, Stay In Touch (Skype) Workshop, 10.30am-12.30pm, CatStrand Thurs 6, Learn to Use Facebook, 1.30-3.30pm, CatStrand Thurs 6, Film: Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 8, Maria Cairnie, 2.30pm, CatStrand Sun 9, Alex Nye: The Art of Writing a Ghost Story, 2-4pm, CatStrand Tue 11, Refreshing Self-help & Health Awareness Taster, 10am-5pm, CatStrand Thurs 13, Protect your PC, 10.30am12.30pm, CatStrand Thurs 13, Backing Up Your Files, 1.30-3.30pm,CatStrand Thurs 13, Film: Albert Nobbs, 7.30pm, CatStrand Thurs 20, Shopping Online, 10.30am12.30pm, CatStrand Thurs 20, Create Your Own Greetings Cards, 1.30 - 3.30pm, CatStrand Thurs 20, Mark Steel’s in Town, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 22 & Sun 23, Animal Reiki L2, 10.30am-4pm, CatSrand Wed 26, What’s Wrong with ME, 7pm, CatStrand Thurs 27, First Steps in Digital Photography, 10.30am-12.30pm, CatStrand (for 4 weeks) Thurs 27, First Steps in Digital Photography, 1.30-3.30pm, CatStrand (for 4 weeks) Thurs 27, The Outside Track, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sun 30, Allotment by Jules Horne, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm, New Galloway Park Sat 29, Scarf Loom Weaving, 10.30am - 4pm, CatStrand Sun 30, Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, 2-4pm, CatStrand OCTOBER Fri 5, Concert with Terri Farley and Friends, 7.30pm, Mossdale Village Hall Glenkens Community Councils Dalry Community Council: Next meetings: Mon 6 Aug & 3 Sept, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. New Galloway & Kells Community Council: Next meetings: Mon 13 Aug & 10 Sept, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall. Carsphairn Community Council: Next meetings: Mon 27 Aug & 24 Sept, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall. Balmaclellan Community Council: Next meetings: Mon 27 Aug & 24 Sept, 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 23 ...GLENKENS DIARY REGULAR EVENTS: CatStrand (New Galloway): Exercise to Music: Mon, 1011am Guitar Workshop: Mon, 7-8pm (resumes 24 Sept) Children’s Dance Class: Mon during term time, 3.45-4pm 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 Zumbatomic, last Sat each month,10-10.45am Catstrand Youth Players: Sun during term time, 2pm Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, last Sun of the month, 2-4pm 4.30pm & 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, 5.30-6.45pm Guides: Tue during term-time, 6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281 Various Locations: Glenkens Community Centre (Dalry): Contact: Kath on 430 281 Glenkens Children’s Club: Mon & Fri, 9.15-11.45am from Mon 16 July Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30- CHURCH OF SCOTLAND Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon 1st, 5th (Sept), 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: Fri 17 Aug, 7.30pm, concert with Apollo 5, Dalry Church Sun 9 Sept, 10.30am, United Family Service, Kells Church, followed by bbq & children’s games at Kells House Sat 15 Sept, 7.30pm, Quiz Night, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn Sun 23 Sept, 12noon, Harvest Texas Hold ‘em Poker, Mon, 7.15pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway 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 Wednesday Quiz Night, Wed, 8.30pm, Cross Keys “I am delighted; just got a booking from the advert in the Gazette.” Fiona Thanksgiving, Dalry Church, followed by Harvest Lunch, Dalry Town Hall Sun 30 Sept, 10.30am, United Service with Glenkens Church Choir, Balmaclellan Church Communion Service: 26 Aug, 10.30am, Kells 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 Hotel, New Galloway Stewartry Camera Club: Wed, 7.30pm, The Tolbooth, Kirkcudbright (resumes 12 Sept) 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 Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Lions Club monthly quiz: alternating between The CatStrand & Lochinvar Hotel, contact: Andrew on 420 323 Dalry Library (Tel: 430 234) Opening Times: 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 please phone. ADVERTISE WITH US! (price per issue incl. VAT) • 6cm x 6cm: £37.80 (10% series discount) • 1/4 page (9cm w x 13cm h): £81.90 (25% series discount) • 1/2 page (18cm w x 13cm h): £151.20 (25% series discount) • Full Page (18cm w x 27cm h): £252 (25% series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 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 Glenkens Gazette page 24 The Gazette will have a new Youth section starting in the October/ November issue – and we need volunteers to write it. Are you a secret blogger? A whizz with a camera? Do you have an eye for design? We are looking for a team of people to help us create a brand new section of the Glenkens Gazette especially for teenagers. There are loads of different ways to get involved. You could write features, create artwork, take pictures or be a roving reporter. Shout about it on Facebook as a Marketing Assistant or use your powers of persuasion to raise funds for the project. You can be a regular member of the team or send in something for a single issue. We don’t mind where you’re based and you don’t need to have any experience. You just need to be aged under 25 and willing to give things a go. First things first – we need a name. Should it be called the Youth Pages, The Chronicle, YOLO (You Only Live Once) or maybe Buzz? If you have your own suggestion please email it to rebecca@catstrand.com. Sponsorship We will need to raise £150 per issue to fund the youth section, so if you would like to advertise or sponsor us please get in touch. Other Opportunities This is just one way to get involved with the growing team of volunteers currently known as the Youth Crew. There are also opportunities for stewards, backstage crew, event planners and plenty more. Whatever you’re into, we can find something to suit you. How to Get Involved Contact Rebecca Goldsmith, Youth Arts Development Officer based at the CatStrand, on rebecca@catstrand.com or 01644 420 374. KILQUHANITY PRIMARY SCHOOL Summer Sunday Aug 5th 2pm – 8pm Join us for a fun filled family day at Kilquhanity School, on B752 near Castle Douglas, to include: Rocket workshops Scavenger Hunt Field Games Face painting Bring your own picnic / BBQ food & drink to share Musicians, bring instruments for informal music & dancing! www.killysummer.info email:sunday@killysummer.info 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 OCT/NOV COPY DEADLINE: Wed 5 Sept Design & co-ordination: Sarah Ade sarah_ade@tiscali.co.uk Printing:Stranraer & Wigtownshire Free Press www.stranraer-freepress.co.uk The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No. SC032050  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 71 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_071 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 https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/218/GlenkensGazette72.pdf 01b8e1f63b72e22aea098c33b05a2b7e 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 72 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry October/November 2012 ISSUE 72 FREE New! Youth Pages PEATBOG FAERIES LEAD CATSTRAND CELEBRATIONS Top folk group the Peatbog Faeries and world-class Polish pianist Alexander Kudajczyk are among the performers coming to the Glenkens to celebrate the CatStrand’s 5th anniversary at the beginning of October. The programme, which also features performing poet John Hegley and a host of other performances, includes an exhibition of work by leading local artists. Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) Manager Sean Paul O’Hare says: “This is a celebration for the people of the Glenkens. Most importantly, we will be showcasing the creative and brilliant local talent within our community alongside both national and internationally recognised musicians and artists. This is a fantastic opportunity to come along and enjoy the very best of what the CatStrand has to offer, and we hope to see as many local people as possible out enjoying themselves over our birthday weekend. We’ve got a great lineup, which we feel is a fitting tribute to all those who have contributed over the last five years.“ On Friday 5 October we are holding a concert in Dalry; the Peatbog Faeries (nominated for ‘Best Live Act’ at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2012), supported by local singer/songwriters Calum Gilligan and Zoe Bestel, are all set to get you into the swing of things. Then there is world-class classical music with Alexander Kudajczyk on Saturday 6 October, and poetry, comedy and performance with John Hegley on Sunday 7 October, along with a host of other events - a fantastic celebration of achievement.” Story continued on p10... The Peatbog Faeries p11 - 14 Silver Wolf for Heather A Glenkens Cub Scout leader has been awarded a top honour by the Chief Scout, Bear Grylls. A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve Heather McIntosh of New Galloway has received the Silver Wolf award, the highest award available to adult members of the Scout movement. The award is in the unrestricted gift of the Chief Scout and is only awarded for service of a most exceptional nature. Heather, who has lived in New Galloway all her life, has been involved in the Scout movement since 1964. Her service has included being Cub Scout leader in the Glenkens and she was for a long time District Commissioner for Cub Scouts in Galloway. To celebrate Heather’s achievement and dedication the Glenkens Scout Group, the Galloway District Scouts and local Community Councils held a surprise party to share their appreciation. Heather is pictured here with Cub Scouts past and present, as well as Drew Low, Scout District Chairman of Galloway, and others involved locally with the Cub Scouts. www.glenkensgaze�e.com Glenkens Gazette page 2 Dalry Community Update A713 Allengibbon Bridge the timber lorry drivers should Dalry Community Council has campaigned for some time now to get signage and road conditions improved at the Allengibbon Bridge, about a mile north of Dalry, after several timber lorries have overturned at the tight bends. Dumfries & Galloway Council responded (finally) by applying an anti slip coating to the road, but not upgrading the signage to warn HGV drivers of the adverse camber and tight bends, and on Monday 3 September another timber lorry fell over at the bridge, making it quite clear that providing an anti-slip surface is not sufficient. Apparently upgrade work in this area is planned, but not for a couple of years... In the meantime Dalry Community Council would like to see improved warning signs – perhaps even a motion activated flashing sign. Plainly be aware of the hazards at this bridge and respond accordingly. 4/5 bedroom homes wanted for Whinneymuir housing development One of the reasons that Dalry Community Council opposed Dumfries & Galloway Housing Partnership’s (DGHP) Whinneymuir development was not the development itself, but the nature of it; too many properties crammed into a small field which already had drainage issues, but also a lack of four or more bedroom properties. The issue was raised with DGHP two years ago, who agreed to look into it, but nothing has happened. I am told there are two families with a local connection in need of a 4/5 bedroom social home who cannot get on the list for Dalry because; ‘there are no 4/5 bedroom DGHP properties in Dalry’, yet when DGHP was asked about provision of larger properties for these families, Thomas Armstrong (Construction) they said there Ltd have commenced work on 29 was no demand COMMUNITY NOTICE for them as there was nobody on their list! Is it me, or does DGHP’s left hand not know what its right is up to?! I believe we should be able to expect better from the region’s leading social landlord. Not very broadband Broadband provision in this remote area continues to be a problem and hinders internet access for business and private users alike. Recent ‘blackouts’ have highlighted that BT’s ageing exchange is struggling to deal with demand, and we are told it will be some time yet before upgrade work is made in the Glenkens. Whilst I can accept the economic reality that there are probably not enough subscribers in this area to make it ‘financially’ justifiable for BT to give us fibreoptic broadband any day soon, if we don’t get internet provision improved we won’t attract new people and businesses to the area that would make the investment worth it for BT. We desperately need intervention by the Scottish Government / Dumfries & Galloway Council to break out from this chicken-andegg cycle! Andi Holmes, Chair, Dalry Community Council affordable homes for Dumfries & Galloway Housing Partnership in St John’s Town of Dalry. Moving Stories Our Site Manager can be contacted on 07967 340 592, or on our head office number at 01900 68211. This is an exhibition aimed at increasing awareness of how the people of Scotland can become involved with their Parliament. Working hours are Monday to Friday, 8am to 4.30pm (overtime to be worked as required and agreed with the client without further notice). www.thomasarmstrong.co.uk It will be run by the Scottish Parliament in Dalry Town Hall from Monday 15 October to Monday 5 November, and is described as; “Moving Stories: 10 people, 10 stories, one unmissable exhibition”. Stories are of ten members of the Scottish public who have been involved with the Parliament in various ways such as through campaigning, submitting a public petition or taking part in an MSP sponsored exhibition. In the form of ten voting-style booths, each booth tells the story of one of the ten people through audio interviews, video and photography. The Town Hall are looking for volunteers to staff the exhibition; anyone interested please contact Marie Davie on 430 293. Glenkens Gazette page 3 Halloween Special: A Ghostly Execution Just over 150 years ago, Dumfries played host to the last public execution of a woman in Scotland when Mary Reid (or Timney), was hanged in front of a crowd of thousands at the old Buccleuch Street Prison. Mary, who was thought to have lived at Carsfad cottages on the A713 north of Dalry, was found guilty of murdering a neighbour following an argument which clearly got of hand. After a gut-wrenching build up and high drama on the day itself, Mary met her maker at twenty three minutes past eight on the morning of 29 April 1862. Local paranormal team, Mostly Ghostly Investigations, marked the 150th anniversary of Mary’s execution with one of their popular Dumfries Ghost Walks. “The team feels that Mary’s tragic tale has captured the public’s imagination,” says Kathleen Cronie of Mostly Ghostly. “Mary’s story is an intriguing insight into the events of that fateful day in 1862 and in addition to this, participants have reported a number of unexplained occurrences on the site of the old prison...” Kathleen goes on to tell us about a bizarre incident which occurred on one of the Mostly Ghostly tours. Below is an eye-witness account: “My family and I had the strangest experience... The guide was telling our group about the hanging of a lady there years ago. Out of the corner of my eye I could see a small light, just above a young girl’s head. The light moved down to the top of her head, then disappeared. At the same time she jumped and started rubbing her head. “As we left the location, I said to the girl:’Did something touch you on the head back there?’ She answered: ‘Yes, how did you know?” I replied; ‘I saw it touch you.’ I can’t explain what happened that evening...” Kathleen says: “We at Mostly Ghostly cannot say for sure who or what is responsible for these unusual occurrences. However, places where people have met tragic, untimely or violent ends are often associated with hauntings. There can be few places with stronger emotional imprints than the site of public executions.” Mostly Ghostly have two Halloween Tours planned for Wednesday 31 October, at 7pm and 9pm. If anyone has information on the Mary Timney case, or any ghostly stories pertaining to the Glenkens, Mostly Ghostly would love to hear from you. To get in touch call 07791 047835 or visit www.mostlyghostly.org Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING) PHOTO OF THE ISSUE We are very disappointed that despite meetings with officers of Dumfries & Galloway Council over the last year there has been no progress on our proposals for taking over management of the Town Hall. Louise says: “We popped up to say hello, and met this cheeky little chappie while enjoying a stroll along the banks of the river Ken.” Louise wins a meal for two at the Cross Keys Hotel in New Galloway. Next issue’s prize will be a meal for two at the Thistle Inn in Crossmichael. So send in those snaps! Neither has the Council followed up its own plans for local consultations as conveyed to us a year ago. At the ‘hustings’ meeting earlier this year, all candidates professed support for the Town Hall. Given that it is now, I believe, seven years since the Council proposed that local groups should take responsibility for their various community buildings, and nearly four years since LING informed them of our interest, we are writing formally to request that a decision is made and an appropriate agreement put in place. Ros Hill, Chairman This issue’s winner is Louise McClure from Dalmellington, with this quirky photo. Glenkens Gazette page 4 sponsored by EVERYTHING listed in the Glenkens Freecycle section 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 Book case, 4’ 6” high x 3’ 6” wide, around 1’ deep, dark wood, recipient to collect. Contact: Anne 430 520 Sofa, green leather, 3-seater, as new except one seat cushion inner is missing; the leather cover is there but foam cushion was never delivered... Contact: 460 673 Various Pair of dark brown leather walking boots, size 10, good condition. Contact: Nigel on 460 545 Out-of-date but sealed and unused Canon BCI24C colour cartridges. Contact: 430 293 Guinea pig/rabbit hutch. It has been used and could do with a good dust and scrub. Contact: Bryher on 430039 Quantity of chicken wire suitable for rabbit proofing etc. Couple of rolls unused. Contact: Alan on 07769 680 938 Well-used portable Lexmark Z645 printer with all the software and a carry case but sadly no USB cable. Contact: 430 293 Kodak Easyprint printer and scanner, in perfect working order. Contact: George on 430 090 or 07920 125 816 Panasonic KXP2124 dot matrix printer for continuous paper with its parallel cable. Contact: 430 293 or have wood worm. Contact: 07554 644 993 White Twyford bathroom Calor gas stove. Contact: Mei on pedestal sink with mixer tap. 460 528 New and unused. Contact: Andi on 430 255 Terracotta pots, any size/shape. Contact 07807 106 799 Belling built-in electric single oven/grill. This has had very little Bunk beds. Contact: Dawn 07774 use. Contact: Andrew on 430 387 543 465 Kitchen extractor fan (surface Flat Screen TV, any size or type. mounting) with flexihose. (Used). Contact: 430 138 Contact: Andi on 430 255. Small amount of parquet Dalry Angling Association’s annual flooring. Contact: Andi Fishing Competition was held on on 430 255 DIY/Home Fittings Dalry Anglers WANTED Canoe in the shed? Never been used for years? We are looking for a small canoe for regular use on Loch Ken. Contact Mike on 077 666 86402 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 Saturday 1 September. Despite much advertising there were no junior entries, so this year’s Junior competition did not take place. The Senior competition saw four members fishing in what was a day of poor returns, due in the main to the previous week’s heavy rain which had resulted in high waters prior to the match. Only one fish was caught, which provided John Thom with both the Most Fish and the Heaviest Fish; the latter winning him the new Ray Cotterill Trophy. Photo: Angling Association Chairman Jeff Hardman presenting the Ray Glenkens Gazette page 5 sponsored by In this issue we find out what our new designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve will mean to the Glenkens. What do Galloway, Mount Kenya, and Uluru have in common? They are all UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. In July 2012 the United Nations, in the form of UNESCO, designated Galloway and South Ayrshire as Scotland’s first Biosphere Reserve, and part of the World Network of Biospheres under the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) programme. This programme is dedicated to improving human livelihoods and ensuring natural habitats by promoting strategies to ensure sustainable development. Our region was chosen for its number of unique combinations of habitats and environments, rich cultural heritage and communities that are aware of their impact on the environment and want to develop sustainably. There are currently 600 Biospheres world-wide, with only two others in the UK - one in north Devon and the other in mid-Wales. Each Biosphere is READER’S TIP: When clearing tall perennials which are ‘gone over’, save the stems and dry them to use as plant supports. Louise McClure, Dalmellington Kylelea Cattery EXCLUSIVE TO CATS Fully licensed & approved, individual runs/heated chalets, all diets catered for, inspection welcome. Kylelea, Corsock, Castle Douglas, DG7 3DN Tel: 01644 440 279 seen to be a site of excellence where new and optimal practices to manage nature and human activities are tested and demonstrated. The Galloway and South Ayrshire Biosphere - based on the reserves of Cairnsmore of Fleet, Silver Flowe, and the Merrick Kells (SSSI) - covers an area of 5268 square kilometres. It is divided into three distinct areas; the Core, the Buffer, and the Transition area, and ranges from Ayr in the north to Whithorn in the south, Portpatrick in the west to Thornhill in the east, encompassing 45,000 dwellings and 95,000 people. Being part of the Biosphere programme is a unique opportunity open to individuals, businesses, and communities to develop the region sustainably, both economically and environmentally, for the benefit of the local and ultimately global community. What the Biosphere brings is partnership in an international first class brand. The Biosphere does not directly bring funding with it, but it is a worldwide symbol of a unique and spectacular environment; a symbol that is to bring the south west of Scotland more attention from both tourism and bodies such as the Scottish Government. The Biosphere is also interested in lending its support to a wide range of enterprising initiatives from micro energy generation to the promotion of traditional rural skills for biodiversity management, from sustainable tourism initiatives to the celebration and interpretation of local heritage and culture. A group of local artists and writers is one of the first groups to take advantage of the new designation, and some of their members recently had the experience of visiting the East Carpathians and High Tatras Biospheres. The results of this informative trip will be reported at an evening event at the CatSrand - keep your eyes peeled for more on this. Further information can be found on www.gallowayandsouthernayr shirebiosphere.org.uk Sara McNeill Below: Blackface sheep, an integral part of the Glenkens countryside and an example of how the landscape we know and love is created through people working alongside nature. Photograph courtesy of the Biosphere programme, taken by Allan Devlin. Glenkens Gazette page 6 Big Splash for Alternative Games The Games started at 2pm on Sunday 5 August, and a few minutes after they were officially declared open the heavens opened too. Constant heavy rain fell for well over an hour as thunder rumbled, after which the arena was more suited to water skiing than gird ‘n’ cleek racing. A good crowd had gathered to witness the opening ceremony, which had an Olympic flavour this year. Current gird n’ cleek world champion Neil Armstrong and special guest competitors Rory McGrath and Will Mellor carried their torches around the arena, led by piper George Galloway. Most of the crowd bravely soldiered on, hoping for a dry interlude to allow some of the action to take place. In the meantime, the popular snail racing switched venues across to the CatStrand. Rory McGrath and Will Mellor were at the Games to film for their new Channel 5 programme, ‘Rory and Will: Champions of the World’. It was disappointing for everyone when no competitive action could take place for practical and safety Jayde Devlin, Alexander McKenna, Neil Armstrong, Brian reasons - the first Edgar, Will Mellor and Rory McGrath. time this has ever a Quiz Night on Friday in New happened in the history of the Galloway Town Hall, and Saturday event. However, after the rain evening’s event was an Archive had reduced to a steady drizzle, Film night in the CatStrand. Rory and Will entertained the The organisers, New Galloway crowd with their attempts at Tossin’ the Sheaf and the Tractor Community Council, would like to thank everyone who helped Pull. A special challenge gird n’ in any way with this year’s cleek race was then arranged events, particularly to all stall to give Rory and Will a chance holders, helpers and the crowd to become Unofficial World for showing such resilience in Champions. the face of the testing weather The weekend had started with conditions. 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 www.aileenmcleod.org regularly for surgery, constituency and parliamentary updates 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 7 BEAUTIFUL SINGING, BEAUTIFUL SETTING On Friday 17 August, the lovely old church in St John’s Town of Dalry was the setting for some exceptionally fine music, which was enjoyed by an attentive and appreciative audience. The performers were Apollo5 no, not the moon-landing, but a group of five young professional singers who perform without accompaniment. Their programme was extremely varied, ranging from church motets of the Tudor period to jazz numbers, songs from the shows and folksong, including many arrangements made specially for the group. The five members of the group two ladies and three gentlemen - sang in various groupings, taking turns to be the featured lead singer, and adapted their singing style according to the piece being performed. Church News Family Services: The Church of Scotland congregations of Dalry, Balmaclellan and Kells are planning to hold regular monthly family services on the second Sunday of the month. The next one will be in Dalry Church at 10.30am on Sunday 14 October. There will not be one in November as the second Sunday will be Remembrance Sunday, but one with a Christmas theme will take place in Kells Church at 10.30am on Sunday 9 December. These services will be more informal and child friendly than our normal services, but aiming to cater for all ages. They conveyed to the audience a sense of reverence, or of seriousness, or of fun and humour, whatever was appropriate. Apollo5 are busy building a career as performers and we will certainly hear their name in the future. We are very fortunate that they chose Dalry as their first Scottish engagement. Archie Thom Resurrection - The Evidence: A few years ago Derek McIntyre came down from Glasgow in response to an invitation from the local Church of Scotland congregations to lead a few evenings at the Kenbridge Hotel on ‘Jesus: The Evidence’. He is returning to the Kenbridge Hotel for a meeting on Monday 12 November at 7pm where he will give a presentation on the evidence for the resurrection. After he has spoken there will be an opportunity for questions and discussion. Those who are sceptical about the whole matter are particularly encouraged to come along and engage in discussion and debate. A buffet supper will be served about 7.45pm for which there will be a charge of £5. For further information or to book a place please phone David Bartholomew on 430 380. n ho Glenkens Gazette page 8 THREE UNFORTUNATE BROTHERS This tragic tale follows from a reader’s request for elaboration on the story of Robert James Clark mentioned in Paul Goodwin’s previous article on Dalry’s war memorials. In 1901, Hugh and Esther Clark were living in Craigielea, Dalry, with their three sons and four daughters. The oldest son was named Hugh after his father, with his brothers being John Martin and Robert James. Hugh and Robert both served in the First World War in the Gordon Highlanders. Robert was unfortunately killed on the battlefield by a shell in November 1916; he had been an apprentice joiner to his father and was also a relief postman, and he is remembered by being the first named on the village war memorial. John took his own life in February 1917 in Dalry. As was customary in such cases, no newspaper report of his death was published, just an obituary, and in order to spare the feelings of anyone who might read this, I will also publish no further details of the event. I will also not speculate as to the circumstances other than to observe that this took place just two months after his brother was killed at the front. Hugh eventually returned safely to Dalry after his war service and became the village postman for forty years before retiring and becoming the relief lighthouse keeper at Ross lighthouse in the Solway. On 18 August 1960, Hugh was found murdered in the lighthouse. He had been shot three times in the head by assistant keeper Robert Dickson, who was eventually caught, tried and convicted of murder and theft. There are some wellwritten articles about the case to be found on the web; just put ‘Ross Lighthouse Murder’ into your favourite search engine. The names of their parents, Hugh and Esther, can still be seen in the village; as you leave Dalry on the A713 to Carsphairn, a little way past Bone’s garage is a bench with a plaque dedicated to them. Three unfortunate brothers indeed; killed by enemy action, suicide and murder. One last puzzle remains... on the family gravestone beside the entrance to Dalry church, John Martin Clark is described as their eldest son - but we know from the 1901 census that Hugh was older by a year... Paul Goodwin, St John’s Town of Dalry Glenkens Business Association (GBA) Issue 2 of The Glenkens Directory should be reaching you soon - so keep your eyes peeled! For further information please contact Ros Hill, GBA Chairman, on 01644 420 632 or email roshill@rathanhouse.co.uk THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL New Galloway ����������������������������������������������������� • Pensions • Savings • Investments • Retirement Options • Inheritance Tax Planning • Life Assurance • Income & Critical Illness Protection • Mortgages • Home Insurance Open 7 Days Beautiful Riverside Location Free Confidential Initial Consultation MEALS SERVED 12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm Tel: 01671 403080 Fax:- 01671 402549 Email: brian.edgar@marrfinancial.co.uk Web: www.marrfinancial.co.uk SUNDAY LUNCH CARVERY 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. bed and breakfast en suite accommodation 01644 420 211 mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk ww.kenbridgehotel.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 9 We continue our interviews with the newly elected councillors for the Glenkens with Finlay Carson (Scottish Conservative & Unionist). What are your links to the Glenkens? I have lived in the Stewartry all my life, and have regularly visited the Glenkens. I have a close relationship and interest in the area, and am a keen supporter of the CatStrand. What skills do you believe that you bring to your job as councillor? I think that as a family man, I am aware of and live with the issues that folk in the area deal with. I have an IT business in the area, and used to be involved in the farming sector; it is this practical knowledge and experience that I aim to bring to the job of councillor. What do you believe to be the important issues facing the Glenkens at present, and how would you feel they would be best tackled? The important issues facing the Glenkens are employment, especially where the youth are concerned, and public transport. I believe employment can be encouraged through developing the Glenkens as a tourism destination in its own right, and I think councillors need to get behind projects that develop this sector. I also believe that we must assist and support enterprising initiatives taking place in the area. An excellent example is the Crayfish Project. Initially this was aimed at dealing with the spectacular growth of the non-native crayfish in our waters, which were having a detrimental effect on both our water habitats and our native species. It was then suggested that an initiative could be developed whereby the crayfish could be, under license, commercially farmed and processed, as is done in other areas of the country. This particular venture has hit a hopefully surmountable brick wall, but it is enterprising endeavours like this that must be pushed forward. Transport in the Glenkens, I think, has been addressed with the Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI), but I would like to see this widened and developed to ensure that everyone has a reliable and regular service making access to town, and the facilities therein, available to all. What do you believe are the important issues facing councillors today? Councillors and politicians across the UK are constantly being slated for forgetting why they have been elected to the positions that they are in. It is the responsibility of councillors to improve the lot of the people that they represent, and it is the duty of all councillors to work together, regardless of party politics, towards this end. Councillors must be accessible to their electorate, willing to meet with them face to face and engage with them in an environment that they feel comfortable in. How would you like to see land use change in the Glenkens over the next ten years? I can’t see the Glenkens changing much over the next ten years but I think that it is topographically suited to smallscale hydro schemes, and I can see the introduction of those into the landscape. The Government’s renewable energy commitments will probably mean more wind turbines, and I would like to see that these are carefully and sympathetically blended in to the landscape. How would you like to see the Glenkens change over the next ten years? I would like to see the Glenkens developed into a recognised tourist destination. It has a lot to boast about with fantastic landscapes, natural history and great attractions such as Watson Birds, Galloway Activity Centre, the Water Ski Centre, and the CatStrand which, if marketed together, create a great holiday package. What issues do you plan to tackle during your term and how? I plan to ensure the development of the GTI. It is essential to sustain communities, allowing the older generation to live independently for longer and the youth an essential key to employment. I also look forward to grasping the opportunity to work with the renewable energy sector, as well as forestry, as these provide opportunities for employment in the area as well as harnessing sustainable energy sources. Dumfries and Galloway is the second highest region in Scotland for fuel poverty. Councillors have a part to play helping communities and individuals access the ability to microgenerate their own electricity that can be used to power, for example, village halls or even whole villages. What do you think can be done to encourage and attract new businesses to the area? I think that high speed broadband, good quality, affordable and appropriate housing, and a good transport infrastructure are important factors when attracting new businesses to an area. I feel, too, that we can attract new business to the area by promoting the unique personality of the Glenkens, with our good schools, lifestyle, and landscape. Finlay Carson is available by appointment - call 07825 633 185 or email finlay.carson@dumgal.gov.uk by Sara McNeill Cllr Finlay Carson Castle Douglas & Glenkens for an appointment Tel: 07825 633 185 or email: finlay@finlaycarson.co.uk www.finlaycarson.co.uk Story continued from front page... Cathy Agnew, GCAT Chairman, has been involved in the CatStrand since its inception and says: “I think the CatStrand is now widely recognised as playing an integral part within Glenkens community life. Over the last five years we have welcomed over 100,000 visitors through the doors from all over the world. The building itself is in great shape which is a real tribute to the architects and the design team and it has been wonderfully managed and supported by a loyal and dedicated team of staff and volunteers. “Now is a good moment to take stock, say thank you and celebrate what has been achieved. I think the CatStrand has definitely helped to put the Glenkens on the map!” page 10 There are currently over 80 volunteers who donate their time to the project, but over the last five years over a hundred dedicated people have volunteered their time and energy to get the CatStrand where it is today. There have been many heartwarming comments in the CatStrand’s visitor book - here are just a few: ‘Well done all those who created this truly community space! Thank you’; ‘We have been very well looked after. This place is very calming and inspiring. Hope it grows and CatStrand, 2012 Glenkens Gazette grows but keeps its intimacy and good people’; ‘Wonderful to have culture on your doorstep. Will definitely come back’; ‘A place to be proud of’. So come along to some of the events on offer over the weekend and celebrate the success of the next five years! A BIG THANK YOU Glenkens Children’s Club (GCC) has got off to a great start after the very sad decision by the council to close the playgroup. The community centre rooms are being used with great success to provide children of all ages with a similar combination of stimulating play and activities that Playgroup offered, with the added advantage/disadvantage that parents and carers stay and join in too! Holiday activities that were offered to school age children as well as little ones included artistled craft activities based around the Giants in the Forest project in the Galloway forest. Now that the schools are back, GCC toddlers have baked cakes, made banners and run around a LOT! There are babies too, and with a health visitor visit the first Friday of every month, this is a valuable resource for new mums. The friendly group of carers includes mums, dads, grannies and even aunties, so do come along if you’d like to join in. GCC remains most grateful to the Playgroup leader and committee, without whose support and transfer of funds and equipment the club would not have been able to get off the ground. We are also grateful to the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) for their support to the structure of the club, to the ladies of St Margaret’s church who raised £250 at the Alternative Games tombola, and to the runners of Natural Power for raising £124 through sponsorship for our good cause. Thank you everyone, the children very much appreciate it! Glenkens Children’s Club runs from Dalry Community Centre on Mondays and Fridays, 9.15 - 11.45am, and costs £2 for children over six months and £1 for subsequent children. Glenkens Gazette page 11 Glenkens Gazette page 12 Glenkens Gazette page 13 Glenkens Gazette page 14 Glenkens Gazette page 15 After the grand opening of the season with Dalry’s very own centenarian, Mrs Bella Wood, Spalding continued its 2012 season with style. On 12 May 1910 Glencairrn Bowling Club Moniave came to officially open the new green. Around 100 years later, on 12 May 2012, they were invited back for a friendly game. On Saturday 4 August, an Invitation Triples tournament was held when a triple from all the surrounding clubs and associations were invited to come - in total 72 bowlers took part. After lunch the Centenary cake was cut by our Honorary President’s wife Mrs Rita Harvie (see photo). The Grand Raffle was drawn at this point and then the heavens opened and there was no other option but to abandon the game. It was decided later that as everyone had played three games, the ones with the highest points from each section were taken and the Triple with the most points at this stage would be the winners. This resulted with a home win of J Peacock, J Priddy & S Dempster. The runners-up were from Gretna and the other two section winners were from Port William and another home team, this time of all ladies; E Peacock, A Hamilton & M Young. All the guests expressed how much they enjoyed their day at Spalding, despite the rain. We finished off our season on Saturday 15 September, declaring the green closed for the season. Our prizegiving will be held on Friday 2 November at The Clachan Inn. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support this year, especially those who have so Mrs Rita Harvie cutting the Centenary cake. Spalding Bowling Club generously given donations, raffle prizes, cakes, trophies and anything else. We are most grateful to you all and appreciate it very much. It has made this a very memorable and special year for all of us. Liz Peacock LOCAL GRANTS AVAILABLE Our new Head Chef has raised the bar even higher at the Clachan Inn and we are now one of the top rated hotels in the area on TripAdvisor (www.tripadvisor.co. uk), and with the Dumfries & Galloway Standard. So kep your eyes peeled for our new menu, including our firm favourites and mouthwatering new dishes. After the busy year we’ve had in the Clachan restaurant, we’re now taking early Christmas bookings. Be sure to book early to avoid disappointment. Tel: 01644 430 241 Email: mail@theclachaninn.co.uk www.theclachaninn.co.uk Glenkens Community Shop will be making available grant applications in late October. The association’s objectives are: (a) The advancement of citizenship and community development within the Glenkens. (b) The relief of those in need by reason of age, disability, financial hardship or any other disadvantage. Both organisations and individuals can apply for a grant. Application forms are available from Glenkens Community Shop, 34 Main St, Dalry and should be addressed for the attention of Shirley McNaught. Completed forms can be dropped into the shop either in person or sent by post. Glenkens Gazette page 16 HOW CAN THE BUS HELP YOU? Although we have had a few questionnaires back, it would be nice to have a lot more - especially as there seems to be a lack of interest this year on Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) trips... Is it the weather, is the cost putting you off, or what is the reason for it? Please do let us know and we’ll try and help; and remember you’ll also be entered in our Prize Draw in October. Forms are available in the CatStrand, local shops or from any GTI Committee member. Some of our younger travellers have asked for better access to Glasgow and Ayr - therefore, extra trips are being arranged during November and December. Like all GTI trips these are open to people of all ages, giving everyone the chance to go to Xscape, Ikea, Christmas shopping, etc. The dates are as follows: Sat 10 Nov; Braehead, Sat 24 Nov; Ayr, Thurs 6 Dec; Carlisle (evening trip for carols, hog roast, etc). Full details for upcoming trips will be advertised locally and on the CatStrand website (www.catstrand.com). It would be great to have full buses! School Run: We now operate a different and longer afternoon run from Kells School, which increases our income from this source. Constant efforts are being made to offset the reduction in the financial support we receive from the Council, but it is vital that both buses are well used. Recently a number of new user groups have been formed, as obviously transport is a vital part of many activities and interests. It will soon be time for planning your Christmas night out; therefore, if you are thinking of using a GTI mini bus (and I hope you are) please book now to avoid disappointment. If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact me on 01644 420 374. Keith Cooper GTI Administrator Literary Review: Maria Walker Cairnie Review of Maria Walker Cairnie at the CatStrand on Saturday 8 September. Canine and feline species are considered enemies in cartoon form, but this is not the case when Lakeland Terrier Blitzy Boy is re-acquainted with Sassica, the Persian cat. Dog and cat lay their differences aside and indulge in some animal passion... Flame haired, Maria Walker Cairnie bounded into the CatStrand and instantly captivated the audience. Author of two literary gems, her stories are vibrant, fun and heart-warming. The audience participation to music gave ample opportunity for free-styling and gentle perspiration. A former teacher, the author has bundles of energy and is clearly a natty mover herself, and she expects some nifty shapes from us too... All too soon the show is over and, as well as a toy replica of Blitzy Boy for the little ones to cuddle, the star of the show made a surprise appearance to rapturous applause. by Phyllis Anderson, Ayrshire-based poet & author Golfing Success The Give Golf a Go initiative at New Galloway Golf Club attracted four new members. The aim of the venture was to encourage local people to take up golf by residents coming along to the course for coaching over a five week period. Not only did they learn how to hit a golf ball, they were given instruction on the rules, etiquette, history and traditions of golf. It is likely that the initiative will be repeated next year. The club needs new members in these difficult times in order to keep the course in a condition that is the envy of many clubs. Some say golf is a good walk spoiled, or perhaps it is a good excuse for a walk! Glenkens Gazette page 17 CAITLIN’S COLUMN You don’t really notice change unless you’ve been away for a little while. Pupils from Kells and Dalry enjoyed the ‘M and M’ production of Charlotte’s Web on Tuesday 4 September. The children were entertained by the story of Charlotte and Wilbur, with lots of music and laughter. Carlingwark Cluster Primary 5 pupils from Carsphairn, Dalry and Kells recently went to Carlingwark Outdoor Centre in Castle Douglas for an overnight residential. On the first day pupils were involved in watersports; an enjoyable day was spent kayaking and sailing on the loch. The pupils went to Dalbeattie Forest on the second day for orienteering. The residential was a great opportunity for pupils from the Glenkens cluster to be involved in new experiences, work together on challenging tasks and make new friends. New Galloway Golf Club Founded 1902 www.nggc.co.uk v 01644 420737 v Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Living in the Glenkens, life is pretty slow-paced, so change is very gradual. Living here, I didn’t really ever notice change much, but having been away, when I return everything is ever so slightly different... For example, the top shop in Dalry is now a charity shop. Walking past I can see a few of my old things in the window, ready to embark on a new life with somebody else. I have also noticed an increase of events celebrating our local talent; I didn’t know just how much we had to offer, in terms of musicians, poets, artists, etc. There are things I appreciate more now I’ve moved away; the quietness, the fresh air, and I definitely took the views for granted. I never really thought about it before I moved away but it’s really nice living in a community where everyone knows who you are and what you’re up to - always something to talk about. I guess you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone! Sometimes change is difficult for us, but it moves us forward, and that is generally good. We can adapt. Finding a balance is key! The quiet pace of Galloway is one of the things that most appeals to me about the area. Is it the same for you or would you like more change? Whether it’s personal change or working towards making things different locally, it can be done, starting from now! 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 See us at Dalry Farmers Market on 2nd Sat each month. Give us a call, no order too small! THE CROSS, MILL ST, DALBEATTIE visit our new online shop at www.clogandshoe.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 18 AGNES COOKS… SALMON Does anyone else share my acute irritation when buying fillets of fish (especially salmon) to find that the scales have not been removed from the skin? Many recipes call for fillet skins to be cooked to a crisp and eaten but you cannot cook or eat scales and they are impossible to remove easily when the fish has already been cut into fillets. As I like to fish, I am very happy to deal with all that needs to be done to prepare fish for the frying pan, including gutting, but I find de-scaling a fish an immense challenge. If done at home you will be picking scales off the ceiling and walls for weeks! Even in fishmongers now, fillets are often sold with the scales still on. I recently tried to buy a whole salmon which I was happy to fillet myself but when I asked if I could have it descaled I was told there was no one there who could do it! To protect my blood pressure, this recipe calls for salmon fillets with no skin at all! This is one of my favourite ways of cooking salmon, and although it includes salt and sugar, it contains no added fat and the watercress sauce is easy and lovely with all other types of fish too. The fish can be prepared for any number of people by allowing one fillet per person. The quantities for the sauce will be enough for four to six people. Make the sauce first and keep warm as you cook the fish. Watercress Sauce In a deep pan (not a frying pan) gently fry a finely chopped shallot (or small onion) and crushed garlic clove in a little olive oil. When cooked, add about 175ml of white wine and boil until the liquid reduces to about half the quantity. Add a whole bag (usually 70 – 100g) of watercress. Stir it around but remove from the heat and blitz with a hand held mixer or in a food processor. Add the juice of half a lemon and season with salt and pepper. The addition of a couple of tablespoons of double cream makes it lovely and rich but it works well without. Keep the sauce warm in the pan while you cook the fish but avoid boiling it. Griddled Salmon If you cook the salmon on a ridged griddle you end up with nice toasted lines on the fillets but it works fine in a frying pan. Put a griddle pan or frying pan onto the heat with no oil. While the pan is heating, sprinkle a small pinch of salt onto each side of the salmon fillet. Repeat using pepper, and finally do the same with a little sugar. Try to get equal quantities on each 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 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.  01556 502263  VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS side. It is important to do this just before you are going to cook it as the salt will draw out moisture from the fish, making it wet. When the pan is hot (it does need to be hot or the fish will stick) put your fillets in. Reduce the heat slightly at this stage and cook for about 3/4 mins each side depending on the thickness of your fish. You will see the fish becoming opaque as it cooks. The sugar also caramelises slightly as it cooks, giving a lovely crispiness to the fish. Put the fish onto a warm plate and add the sauce. This dish is nice with plain boiled new potatoes and veg of your choice. The fish also works well cold with a little salad dressing or mayonnaise. Mulloch Hill Race Readers will be aware that there is no Clachan Fair this year, nor is there a Dalry School Fun Day, so unfortunately it has not been possible to find a suitable date to run the Mulloch Hill Race. Look out for its planned return in the summer of 2013. Paul Goodwin FHB Fencing Dalry Domestic and Agricultural Fencing 01644 430 495 (Peter) or 07767 795 498 (Jonathan) Glenkens Gazette page 19 We have now launched our fundraising campaign for the events and activities for Watson Birds. We aim to raise £100,000 to fund our activities and events programme for the next five years, and hope you can help us by contributing towards this. Watson Birds’ ‘Feathers’ fundraising campaign is based on the three birds in our logo; the golden eagle, the hen harrier and the swift. We invite you to join one of these three clubs. With your help we can build on the successful events held so far and develop an imaginative programme for the future. The Eagle Club: Become a Founder Patron by making a donation of over £10,000. The Harrier Club: Donations of £1,000 to £10,000. The Swift Club: Donations from £100 to £1,000. Donate or loan a Donald Watson painting: We aim to have a permanent exhibition of Donald Watson’s paintings. Can you donate or loan a Donald Watson painting to help to start our collection? Donate your own painting for auction: Many artists worked with Donald or who knew him in his later years. One way to contribute is to donate a painting which we can display in our exhibition, and which we can auction at the annual Bird Fair. Gift Aid: If you are a UK tax payer, why not Gift Aid your donation as this will give us another 25p for every £1 you donate. Please make cheques payable to Glenkens Community & Arts Trust marked Watson Birds. Watson Bird is an initiative of The Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT). Support from Our Patrons: The Duke of Buccleuch & ALEX FERGUSSON MSP Queensbury KBE DL: “This is an original and beautifully conceived project that is so rooted in Dumfries & Galloway and so reflective of the character of our region that it deserves all our support. I send it every best wish.” Dame Barbara Kelly CBE DL: “I am delighted and honoured to be a patron of the Watson Bird project and it gives me great satisfaction to see the progress which has been made in its development in the last 12 months.” Mr Richard Agnew of Glenlee: “Donald Watson’s paintings and writings provide an eloquent and sensitive record of the birds and landscape of Galloway. I am delighted that the Bird Festival commemorates him in the village where he lived and worked for over 50 years. I hope too that the Festival will help in achieving the longer term aims of the project to acquire and preserve Donald’s house and studio.” For further information visit www.watsonbirds.org Roger Crofts The Cross Keys Hotel New Galloway 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 We have 10 cosy en-suite bedrooms with TV/ DVD/Radio and tea and coffee making facilities, a traditional bar with a good selection of Real Ales, Malts and a welcoming log fire and an excellent restaurant specialising in fresh, local produce. We have wi-fi access, drying facilities, secure bike storage, off road parking for motorbikes, firearms safe... and lots of local knowledge! We welcome well-behaved and ‘dog friendly’ dogs. Traditional Hospitality at its Very Best Every Monday, 7.15pm, Texas Hold ‘em Poker Every Wednesday, 8.30pm, fundraising quiz Every Friday, Fish Friday, fish meal for £8.95 Tel: 01644 420 494 Email: enquiries@thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk www.thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 20 BATTLEFIELD CONNECTIONS In the last issue of the Gazette there was a story from the pupils of Dalry Secondary School about their visit to the battlefields of Flanders and the Somme in June. After a reader’s request for elaboration on local links found, here are three pupils’ stories. left to right: Mackenzie Lawrie, Josie Oliver and Thomas Petch Mackenzie Lawrie, S3: This was my first time abroad and on day two of our trip we visited Thiepval, in France. This is a huge monument to the soldiers who were killed during the Battle of the Somme in August 1916. One of those soldiers was John McCubbing, my great grandfather, who was only twenty years old when he was killed. John lived in Wylie’s Brae, New Galloway, and you can see his name on the New Galloway War Memorial. I managed to find John’s name GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL  01644 420234  at Thiepval and I felt very proud that my great grandpa had fought and died for his country. I had always pictured him as an older man, but when I saw photographs of him when I came home, I realised that he had not had the chance to grow old. This made me feel very sad for John and I wish that I had known more about him before I went to France. Josie Oliver S3: On Saturday evening on Saturday 23 June, we got on a coach to go down to Dover. I was quite excited about the trip to Belgium, as I thought we would all learn a lot from it. I found my great-great-uncle, John Marriott, on the Menin Gate. He was from Rochdale and worked in the printworks, and he enlisted in the army in November 1914. He was buried by a mine on 6 June 1916, and though his pals tried to dig him out, his body was never found. The Menin Gate is a memorial to men who where never found. Two of his brothers were also killed in the war, and they are in the Loos memorial and Wellington cemetery, which were too far away for us to visit. I felt relieved when I found his name, as I was worried we weren’t going to be able to. I am proud of all my great uncles who fought in the war, and of all the men who gave their lives for their country. The trip taught me to be grateful for what I have, and I am thoroughly glad I went on it. 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 Thomas Petch, S3: While I was over in Belgium my main goal was to find the family members who had died in service during WW1 that I knew of, because I was one of the first members of my family to actually visit them. The first person I saw was my great great uncle on my dad’s dad’s side called Jonathon James Petch. He died during the battle of the Somme and because he does not have a grave, his name was put on the Thiepval memorial, a stone monument dedicated to the missing of the Somme. This was especially important to me as it is the source of the ‘James ‘in my name. The second person I saw was my other great great uncle on my dad’s mum’s side called Thomas Woodland; he died during the battle of Passchendaele and (unlike Jonathon) his body was found and buried in Tyne Cot cemetery, one of the biggest war cemeteries in the eastern front. This meant I was able to sit by his grave and tell him he was not forgotten (something my dad had asked me to) as his name carries on through me. Balmaclellan Crimea War Memorial Paul Goodwin will be writing an article about this, the oldest civic war memorial in Scotland, and has also been contacted by a couple of fellow members of the Scottish Military Research Group who intend to write and publish a booklet about the memorial. If anyone has any information about Balmaclellan War Memorial, please contact Paul Goodwin on 07973 174 342. 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 jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 21 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN Kenmure’s Awa’ William Gordon, sixth Viscount of Kenmure, is famous for having been executed for his part in the sorry Jacobite Rebellion of 1715. His father, Alexander, was suspected by the royalist Claverhouse of conversing too frequently with the rebels; that is, the Covenanters. ‘Bluidy Clavers’ to his enemies and ‘Bonnie Dundee’ to his admirers occupied Kenmure Castle in 1682, charged with the suppression of the southwest. When Claverhouse was killed at the battle of Killiecrankie, Gordon was on the opposing side fighting on behalf of William of Orange following the ‘Glorious Revolution’. His son William Gordon, however, chose to become a Jacobite and thus a supporter of the exiled James VII and II. As a result he rallied to the standard at the outbreak of the ’15 Rising. Each year the Earl of Mar hosted a great hunt lasting several days on Deeside. Under cover of that event the rebels gathered, Mar appointing Kenmure to the post of chief commander in the south of Scotland, despite the fact that he was described as ‘utterly a stranger to all military affairs’; not the best of qualifications. Kenmure, rightly or wrongly, comes across as a somewhat dithering individual who found himself in command by accident. The whole rebellion, although thought by many commentators to have had the best chance of success of all the Jacobite risings, was a shambles from start to finish, organisationally pathetic and fatally lacking in leadership. Indeed the Jacobites had a habit of holding supposedly secret meetings in public and so advertising their intentions to the British Government. The Viscount’s first objective was to capture Dumfries. Learning that the burgh was full of armed men ready to defend it, Kenmure allegedly said that ‘he doubted not that there were as brave gentlemen there as himself, and therefore he would not go to Dumfries that day’. Instead he went to Lochmaben where he proclaimed the Old Chevalier as James VIII, a ceremony repeated in Langholm, Hawick and Jedburgh. According to Peter Rae’s ‘History of the Rebellion’ (thought to have been the first book published in Dumfries) Kenmure stumbled around the Borders to no effect in the Autumn of 1715 and crossing into England he was forced to surrender at the battle of Preston on 14 November. The following January he and six other noblemen, including the Earl of Derwentwater and the Earl of Nithsdale, were impeached for High Treason. Kenmure begged for mercy, ‘that I may live to show myself the dutifullest of his subjects, and be the means to keep my wife and four small children from starving’. To no avail; with Derwentwater and Nithsdale he was sentenced to death, although one member of this Solway Group, Nithsdale, escaped. Kenmure made no speech but he wrote a final letter to a fellow nobleman who had attempted to intercede for him. He claimed to have pleaded guilty in the expectation of a pardon which he said had been promised when he surrendered. He refused to make a speech because he regretted disowning his principles and he would have to speak according to the dictates of his conscience and not prevaricate as he did at his trial, so possibly incriminating the survivors who had been pardoned. On the scaffold Kenmure was accompanied by two ministers, an undertaker, and a surgeon who drew his finger across the victim’s neck to indicate where the executioner should strike. He prayed for the Old Pretender, repented of having pleaded guilty, ‘and died after a very courageous manner’. It could be said, in charity, that nothing in his life became him like the leaving of it. The title was attainted but in 1824 it was restored to John Gordon, the man who entertained Robert Burns at the castle; it became dormant on the death of Adam eighth Viscount of Kenmure without issue in 1847. Ted Cowan Ted Cowan FRSE is Emeritus Professor of Scottish History at the University of Glasgow, author or editor of 12 books, with numerous articles on Scottish History to his name. He has been Visiting Professor of History at universities in Europe, Canada, the US, Australia and New Zealand. Currently he is heavily involved in the European Ethnology Research Centre’s pioneering Dumfries and Galloway Project. Hear Ted Speak: Friday 5 October, Talk by Ted Cowan - ‘Historic Glenkens’, 5pm, CatStrand, free entry. Watch Ted’s TV Presentation: Monday 22 October, BBC 1, Ted Cowan presents ‘Scotland’s Greatest Warrior’, the story of the Marquis of Montrose 1612-1650. Glenkens Gazette page 22 OCTOBER & NOVEMBER OCTOBER Thurs 4, Magnetic North: Sex & God, 8pm, CatStrand Thurs 4 - Mon 12 Nov, CatStrand 5th Birthday Exhibition, CatStrand Fri 5, Talk: Professor Ted Cowan ‘Historic Glenkens’, 5pm, CatStrand Fri 5, Peatbog Faeries, 7pm, Dalry School Sat 6, Family Film Club & Workshop, 10am, CatStrand Sat 6, CatStrand Youth Crew: Street Spirit, 2-5pm, CatStrand Sat 6, Alexander Kudajczyk, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sun 7, Wee Mice: Adult & Child Creative Dance Class, 11.30am-12.15pm (3-5 yrs + adult), CatStrand Sun 7, Scottish Ballet Design Talk, 12.45-1.45pm, CatStrand Sun 7, John Hegley: The Animal Alphaboat Workshop, 2-3pm, CatStrand Sun 7, CatStrand Youth Players: Open Rehearsal, 3-4pm, CatStrand Sun 7, CatStrand Birthday Party, 4-6pm Sun 7, John Hegley: Peace, Love & Potatoes, 7.30pm, CatStrand Thurs 11, Hitch & Crunch, 7.30pm, CatStrand Mon 15 - Mon 5 Nov, Moving Stories Exhibition, Dalry Town Hall, see p2 Tues 16, Glenkens Trust AGM, 7.30pm, Ken Bridge Hotel Wed 17, Kids Film, CatStrand Mon 20 & Tue 21, Self Help & Health Awareness Workshop, 10am-5pm, CatStrand Mon 22, Ted Cowan TV Presentation: BBC 1, see p21 Mon 22 & Tue 23, 10.30am-4pm, Animal Reiki Level 2, CatStrand Thurs 25, Film: TBC, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 27, Film: 1952 Classic- Singin in the Rain, 2pm, CatStrand Sat 27, Spooky Walks in the Woods, Kirroughtree Visitor Centre, 6.30-8pm, see back page Sat 27, Carsphairn’s Got More Talent, 7.30pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn Sat 27, Halloween Fancy Dress Party, Clachan Inn, Dalry Sun 28, Film: The Gruffalo’s Child & Other Stories, 2pm, CatStrand Wed 31, Children’s Lantern Parade & Halloween Party, around 6pm, CatStrand Wed 31, Mostly Ghostly Halloween Tour, 7pm & 9pm, Dumfries, see p3 NOVEMBER Thurs 1, Open Stage, 7pm, CatStrand Fri 2, Glenkens Halloween Party, 6.30pm, Dalry, see back page Fri 2, The Ugly Bugs Ball, 9pm, CatStrand Fri 2, Spalding Bowling Club Prizegiving, The Clachan Inn, Dalry, see p15 Sat 3, Balmaclellan Bonfire Night, 6.30pm, see back page Sat 3, Firebrand: Iron by Rona Munro, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 3, Concert with Terri Farley and Friends, 7.30pm, Mossdale Village Hall Sun 4, Firebrand: Iron by Rona Munro, 3pm, CatStrand Fri 9, Quiz Night, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall Fri 9, Film: Zombie, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 10, GTI Bus Trip; Braehead, see p16 Sat 10, Harpoetry, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall, see back page Sun 11, Bruce McGregor, 7.30pm, CatStrand Thurs 15, Art and the Biosphere, evening event, CatStrand Fri 16, Film: The City Dark, CatStrand Thurs 22, Guidewires, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 23, Music and Mirth with Jane McMiken & Friends, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 24, Craft Fair, Mossdale Village Hall Sat 24, GTI Bus Trip; Ayr, see p16 Sat 24, Christmas Shopping Day, 2 – 5.30pm, CatStrand Wed 28, Breabach, 7.30pm, CatStrand 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 23 ...GLENKENS DIARY REGULAR EVENTS: CatStrand (New Galloway): Exercise to Music: Mon, 1011am Guitar Workshop: Mon, 7-8pm, all welcome Children’s Dance Class: Mon during term time, 3.45-4.45pm 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 Zumbatomic, last Sat each month,10-10.45am Catstrand Youth Players: Sun during term time, 2pm Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, last Sun of the month, 2-4pm Glenkens Community Centre (Dalry): Contact: Kath 430 281 Glenkens Children’s Club: Mon & Fri, 9.15-11.45am Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm & 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 Thursday Craft Group: Thurs, 2-4pm Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm Guides: Tue during term-time, 6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281 Various Locations: Texas Hold ‘em Poker, Mon, 7.15pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.45-11.15am, New Galloway Town Hall Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Dog Training: Tue & Wed, 7pm, Glenkens Community Councils Dalry Community Council: Next meetings: Mon 1 Oct & 5 Nov, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. New Galloway & Kells Community Council: Next meetings: Mon 8 Oct & 12 Nov, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall. Carsphairn Community Council: Next meetings: Mon 29 Oct & 26 Nov, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall. Balmaclellan Community Council: Next meetings: Mon 29 Oct & 26 Nov, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall. Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library. CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon 1st, Carsphairn: 10.30am 1st 2nd 3rd 4th, Dalry: 12noon 1st 2nd (Nov) 3rd 4th, Kells: 10.30am 3rd 4th Special Services/Events: Sat 6 Oct, 10am, Coffee Morning for Abbas Rest Orphans, Dalry Town Hall. Sun 7 Oct, 10.30am, Harvest Thanksgiving Service in Carsphairn Church & Harvest Lunch in Lagwyne Hall. Sun 7 Oct, 12noon, Harvest Thanksgiving Service in Balmaclellan Church & Harvest Lunch in Balmaclellan Village Hall. Sun 14 Oct, 10.30am, United Family Service in Dalry Church. Sun 11 Nov, 11am, Ceremonies at New Galloway and Balmaclellan War Memorials & Remembrance Service in Kells Church. Mon 12 Nov, 7pm, ‘Resurrection - The Evidence’ with Derek McIntyre, Ken Bridge Hotel. Communion Services: Sun 28 Oct, 12 noon, Dalry Church; Sun 4 Nov, 12noon, Balmaclellan Church; Sun 18 Nov, 10.15am, Carsphairn 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 Dalry Town Hall. Wed 10 Oct last session until Tue 8 Jan. Contact: Eric 460 670 Wednesday Quiz Night, Wed, 8.30pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Stewartry Camera Club: Wed, 7.30pm, The Tolbooth, Kirkcudbright (resumes 12 Sept) 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 Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Folk Music Session: 1st Sat each month, 8pm, The Clachan Inn, Dalry Dalry Library (Tel: 430 234) Opening Times: 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 please phone. ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 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 Glenkens Gazette page 24 Halloween in the Glenkens The Glenkens has a variety of Halloween events for all ages on offer this year, from lantern parades to fancy dress and even some scary cocktails... Start the festivities with family face-painting at the CatStrand on Halloween night, then join the fancy dress lantern parade through the streets of New Galloway. Meet some scary characters along the way, and finish up back at the CatStrand where there will be dancing for wee ones and a screening of a short ghost film made by local teenagers. Look out for workshops in October for lantern-making (all ages) and film-making (age 12 to 16). Keep an eye on www.facebook.com/thecatstrand for updates. Why not perform a spooky treat at the CatStrand’s Open Stage on Thursday 1 November, then head back on Friday 2 for the adults’ fancy dress party, ‘The Ugly Bugs Ball’. Expect themed decorations, spooky cocktails, freaky facepainting, and prizes for the Best Dressed. Donations taken at the door for CatStrand Halloween events will go towards the Glenkens Children’s Club. And for the whole family, the annual Glenkens Halloween Party, organised by Friends of Dalry School, will take place on Friday 2 November in Dalry at 6.30pm. There will be Fancy Dress competitions for all (adults included), games, a disco, prizes for Best Carved Pumpkin, hot dogs, cakes and teas. Entry is 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 5 Nov £2, with under 5’s free (keep your eyes peeled for posters for further info). And more fun for the grown-ups; there will also be a Halloween Fancy Dress party on Saturday 27 October at The Clachan Inn, Dalry. So, young or old, find your scariest outfit and join in the fun! Balmaclellan Bonfire Night Sat 3 Nov - 6.30pm £2.50 (soup included) 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. 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 72 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_072 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 https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/219/GlenkensGazette73.1.jpg d3c60c8b64d443b73f6a44982bfbd8df https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/219/GlenkensGazette73.pdf b4ca72dc34cb1c9907e0ffdc9ac78487 PDF Text Text GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry December/January 2012 ISSUE 73 FREE NEW CHILDREN’S CLUB IN LINE FOR AWARD The club, which has been named as a finalist in the Volunteer of the Year category in the Dumfres & Galloway Life People of the Year Awards 2012, was set up in response to council cuts which lead to the closure of the Glenkens Playgroup. Helen Keron, chairman of the club, says: “I’m delighted that we have been nominated and shortlisted for one of the D&G Life awards. It’s a real recognition of the huge effort a lot of people have put in to ensure that the amazing childcare facilities at the Dalry Community Centre are not lost. The Club is going from strength to strength, with more than 25 children attending some of our holiday events. To be in the running for this award makes us feel very proud.” The Volunteer of the Year Award is made to voluntary or charitable groups dedicated to making a difference to life in the region. Judges are looking for innovative ideas and exceptional community engagement and results. Since the council’s closure of the Dalry-based playgroup, the GCC has offered a similar mix of stimulating play and activities with the involvement of parents, other relatives and carers as well as a holiday programme of artistic events and outings. The D&G Life Awards for 2012 will be announced at a ceremony at Easterbrook Hall, Dumfries, on 29 November. Glenkens Children’s Club meets at Dalry Community Centre on Mondays and Fridays from 9.15am to 11.45am. Fees are £2 for children over 6 months, £1 for subsequent children. Bird Festival Success Giant owl visiting Dalry School. This year’s Watson Bird Festival, held in Dalry, was a great success according to participants, visitors, local businesses and local residents. Over 750 people attended the weekend’s events and the village was buzzing with activity. There was a wide variety of events and activities on offer, from exhibitions to storytelling, music to lectures. Our weekend concluded with wonderfully mellow music on the harp, cello and flute by the Rhona Mackay Trio in The Clachan Inn, and on Saturday evening Dalry residents were thrilled with the depiction of Donald Watson’s paintings on the gable end of Margaret Hamilton’s house. Roger Crofts A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve NEW WEBSITE: www.glenkensgaze�e.co.uk GCC having a visit from the Animal Man’s Mini Zoo in the October holidays. The group of volunteers who started the Glenkens Children’s Club (GCC) has been short-listed for a prestigious award. �Glenkens Gazette page 2 THE CRAYFISH CONUNDRUM One of the hottest topics of conversation for some time in the Glenkens has been that of crayfish. The American signal crayfish appeared in our waters in the 1980s, and numbers have continued to grow ever since. Both local and visiting fishermen began to notice the impact that they were having on the fish populations in Loch Ken, and soon hoteliers, B&B owners and other local businesses started noticing that the fishermen, with their vital repeat bookings, were no longer coming to the area. It was then that the crayfish question was brought to the New Galloway community council. The decision was made early on to treat this as a priority, and local concerns were put before both the Scottish Government and Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH). SNH sent down experts to monitor and attempt to contain the crayfish population. Unfortunately the crayfish have spread to other rivers and burns, so one Glenkens resident decided, along with other interested parties, to set up an independent committee focusing solely on the crayfish question. The New Galloway community council remains supportive of appropriate action being taken to deal with the crayfish issue, but is not directly involved in any of the measures currently being discussed or taken to deal with them. The face of the crayfish committee is at present John Thom, former bailiff for the New Galloway Angling Club and current bailiff for the Dalry Angling Association. John tells us that, having looked at many options, the crayfish committee have applied to SNH for a scientific and commercial trapping licence. The premise for this is that, as it is unlikely that we will ever get rid of them, why not turn their appearance in to a positive and make an income out of them whilst controlling numbers. The licence will be held by the six committee members who will then contract out the business of trapping to a commercial crayfish trapping company. This idea has been met with mixed responses from local people, with FESTIVE WISHES Thomas Armstrong (Construction) Ltd would like to wish Gazette readers all the best for the festive season. We will keep you updated on progress on the Dalry housing development. If you wish to contact our Site Manager, please call 07967 340 592 or 01900 68211. www.thomasarmstrong.co.uk Supporting your local community through the Glenkens Gazette. some in the area believing that a commercial contractor may grow on the small crayfish on site, raising the chance of them spreading, or that it may encourage others to illegally trap in order to supplement their incomes. The idea of controlling their spread is contentious in itself, as there are rumours of their presence in both the Nith and the Clyde. Others believe that this issue could be dealt with on a local level, by having an annual crayfish festival, inviting locals and tourists alike to trap them, and then holding a music and food event. The crayfish committee have looked into this and, although the social side of the festival is a great idea, they say the strict regulations regarding trapping make this impossible. The application for a licence is now in the hands of SNH, but in the meantime the crayfish committee welcomes any fresh and imaginative ideas that seek to control crayfish numbers, prevent their spread and maintain a balanced ecosystem in our waterways. To get in touch with the committee please contact John Thom on 07776 116 819. Sara McNeill Bargatton Sand & Gravel Supplying sand and gravel for all your farming needs, as well as households and businesses both large and small. In Stock: Concrete sand, building sand, washed gravels including peagravel and 20-40mm draining gravel. £15 per tonne + VAT. Aggregate mix £15.50 per tonne + VAT. For further details contact: Angus Wilson, Quarry Manager - 07715 606 685 James Mair - 07793 085 243 Email: loch.bargatton@live.co.uk Bargatton Quarry, Laurieston, Castle Douglas, DG7 2PS Open 7 days Mon-Fri Weekends by arrangement Delivery can be arranged - subject to quantity �Glenkens Gazette page 3 WHO’S EATING THE CRAYS? During the last two summers the remains of signal crayfish have appeared atop a grassy knoll beside the river Ken. Whoever kills and eats the crayfish does a very neat job of eating the head without damaging the shell... It might be otters, but they would eat by the river’s edge, or herons, but they would probably swallow them whole and could not clean out the shell...so my guess is crows. Just below Earlstoun power station are a number of shingle beds that dry out whenever the turbines are turned off. Crayfish could become trapped in pockets of water and as these dry, try to crawl over the shingle in search of safe water; easy pickings for an inquisitive crow... Unfortunately, there is plenty of deep water where the crayfish can hide, and a few dozen less will have no impact on the problems that they pose. Gazette reader, Dalry Stewartry Camera Club Recently, the Stewartry Camera Club was awarded grant support by Awards for All Scotland. As part of the submitted project, we agreed to hold an open day and training. A course, entitled ‘Photography - The Next Step’, will be held on Saturday, 9 February. The trainer will be Alwyn Howes, and the cost is £5. To book, or for further details, contact Mary McIlvenna 01644 420 613. Mary, Grant Co-ordinator St Margaret’s Raises Over £3,000 At the recent AGM of St Margaret’s Church Ladies Guild, it was reported that over £3,000 had been raised for a variety of charities and good causes over the past year. Causes include Dumfries & Galloway Befriending Project, Sports for Special Needs, Combat Stress, Friends of Dalry School and the new Glenkens Children’s Club. President Christine Rankin says: “We are a small group of ladies but punch well above our weight!” Diary date for next year: Plant and Bake Sale, Saturday 27 April. Stag Tea Room & Garden T. H. CARSON Tel: 01644 460 211 Enter a stranger, leave as a friend and return as a regular! Open Mon to Sat 8am-5pm Sun 9am-5pm See us at Dalry Farmers Market on the 2nd Saturday of each month Free delivery every Thursday Come and enjoy a light meal including HomeMade Pies, Scones and Soups, Rolls with hot or cold fillings. Now taking orders for Christmas - and don’t forget to order your New Year roasts & steak pies... Carricks, Main Street, Carsphairn, DG7 3TQ Now stocking handmade chocolates from The Moniaive Chocolatiers. Our Garden has a wonderful view and the Tea Room is open all year. We now have a lottery terminal in the shop. Take out menu available - ring in your order in and we can have it ready for collection. BUTCHERS Give us a call, no order too small! Fresh turkeys • copas free range turkeys • geese, ducks, etc • Christmas Hamper • 4 pork chops 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 £32.99! �Glenkens Gazette page 4 sponsored by EVERYTHING listed in the Glenkens Freecycle section 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 Sofa, green leather, 3-seater, as new except one seat cushion inner is missing; the leather cover is there but foam cushion is missing... Contact: 460 673 Various Fishing rods; 2 spinning rods, 1 split cane, 1 fibreglass, with reels. Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 Nursery Fire Guard. Mothercare, extendable, brass. Contact: Jean on 420 372. Out-of-date but sealed and unused Canon BCI24C colour cartridges. Contact: 430 293 Child’s scooter. Contact: 430 218. Washing machine, AEG, working except for a fault on the spin cycle which is most probably fixable but haven’t tried as don’t need the machine now. Contact: 07727 127 997 Kodak Easyprint printer and scanner, in perfect working order. Contact: George on 430 090 or 07920 125 816 Panasonic KXP2124 dot matrix printer for continuous paper with its parallel cable. Contact: 430 293 DIY/Home Fittings Extra thick felt carpet underlay, new and unused 9 metres x 1.37metres. Contact: 420 613. WANTED Non-working chest freezer or other suitable item to use for the storage of animal feed – will collect. Contact: 01644 450 201. Bunk beds. Contact: Dawn 07774 543 465 Freezer, any sort; chest or upright. Will collect. Contact Helen: 07789 693 698 Call Out: Will the couple from New Galloway who bought a Robin petrol generator from me sometime ago please call me on 07754 644 993 as I have now found the instruction manual. Sue LOCAL GRANTS AVAILABLE The deadline for applications for Glenkens Community Shop grants will be Wednesday 5 December, so please get applications to us by then. The association’s objectives are: (a) The advancement of citizenship and community development within the Glenkens. (b) The relief of those in need by reason of age, disability, financial hardship or any other disadvantage. Both organisations and individuals can apply for a grant. Application forms are available from Glenkens Community Shop, 34 Main St, Dalry and should be addressed for the attention of Shirley McNaught. Completed forms can be dropped into the shop either in person or sent by post. �Glenkens Gazette page 5 sponsored by In this issue we take a look at a local company with an admirable, eco-friendly company ethos. “Putting the Environment Before Profit” is the motto of the fascinatingly named Tsarina Imperial Dacha Company that has chosen to base itself in the Glenkens. Owner Michael Dutton is passionate about his subject, and his subject is log buildings. His two previous careers - as an army Arctic Warfare and Survival Instructor and then as an electrical and software engineer - took him around the world, and it was his travels in Russia and Norway that first introduced him to the logbuilt cabin. Michael saw in log cabins a more natural way of living; a more energy efficient, stronger, and affordable alternative to the timber-framed houses built in the UK today. Michael’s goal when he returned home was to educate people about log cabins as a viable and more natural way of living, and set up a business to manufacture them. Five years ago, he set up the Tsarina Imperial Dacha Company, inspired by the dachas or holiday homes of Russia and three years ago, taken with the landscape and quality of life and community, he moved the business to the Glenkens. Michael chose Forrest Estate, Dalry, having worked out early on that to make the whole production process as environmentally low-impact as possible, he needed to be based in an area where his raw materials were plentiful. “The logs that I use are all harvested locally,” Michael says. Michael constructs the buildings out of unseasoned soft wood logs, treated with a naturally found fireretardant, anti-fungal, and antiinsecticidal product which he blends with natural oils, waxes and natural pigments for the treatment, making them robust, resilient and longlasting. “My Mother-in-law lives in a 180 year old log cabin in Russia. Properly maintained they can last forever,” Michael tells us. of its innate strength and secondly, because the artificial heat pushes the flame retardant salts found within the wood to the surface where they dissipate into the atmosphere. The other advantage that logs have over milled timber is that the logs retain the heart of the wood; should a crack occur, it will be prevented from splitting all the way through so the strength of round logs is far greater than that of milled timber. Michael sees log cabins as bespoke, affordable, quality housing. Each log building is a unique construction, designed and built to meet the needs of the client, climate and local landscape. In addition, should the client ever wish to relocate, the cabins can be disassembled and moved to a new location. It is a warm and rustic material that is both enjoyable to look at as well as to live in, is low maintenance, and blends into the natural landscape. Log cabins are an inherently energyefficient concept; the internal structure of soft wood logs contains To find out more, get in touch with air pockets in the cells which makes Michael on 07880 621 103 or timber a poor conductor of heat, rasputinscotland@aol.com. ensuring that heat is kept inside the Sara McNeill building - so local soft wood trees are perfect as they grow faster than their Scandinavian counterparts and therefore The Tsarina Imperial Dacha have larger cell Company is the only UK company structures. local log homes Michael says: “Log cabins have far superior thermal properties to a brick or timberframed house.” The cabins are built using unseasoned green wood firstly, because kiln dried timber loses over 40% Abbas Rest Fundraising Success On Saturday 6 October, a very successful coffee morning was held in Dalry in aid of Abbas Rest Orphans in Malawi. We would like to thank everyone; a wonderful total of £705.89 was raised. Our thanks also go out to all the people who staffed the stalls, provided transport, waited on the tables, and helped in the kitchen, as without your help this would not have been possible. Barbara Colbenson creating log cabins from locally sourced timber. A variety of bespoke log homes are available, using Glenkens wood. These structures are made to last, and are not the usual imported kits sold by other companies. Other log structures are also available such as stables, summer houses, log bridges, hot tubs, saunas, picnic benches, fishing/hiking shelters, bothies and children’s playhouses. Call managing director Michael Dutton to arrange a visit to their yard at Forrest Estate and learn about an energy efficient, low impact, more natural way of living. Call 07880 621 103 (anytime), 01292 551 840 (evening) or email rasputinscotland@aol.com. �Glenkens Gazette page 6 Halloween Excitement in the Glenkens There was a great The annual Halloween party for children in the turn-out full of fun and Glenkens took place at Dalry Town Hall. Hanging skeletons in the trees by the entrance, spookily lit by fright on Wednesday 31 lights, put revellers in the right mood before entering the October for the CatStrand coloured hall through a maze of cobwebs and howling ghouls. Ghoulish Gathering and Friends of Dalry School (FoDS) had decorated the hall and organised the party, helped by donations from Dalry and New Mystery Parade. Winners of the Glenkens halloween party Fancy Dress Competition: Photo © Robbie Wilson. Galloway Community Councils. Costumes were colourful and very The evening started with face inventive, with many being handmade. Judge for the Fancy Dress painting followed by a lantern Competition, Rhoda Rugg, said: “It was very difficult to choose lit procession through New Galloway and ended up back at the winners as all the entrants looked suitably scary and horrible”. This year had the largest number of carved pumpkins, all of which CatStrand for a halloween disco, complete with games and floating were skilfully created and made a spectacular display. Music and games were followed by refreshments and each child was given a Chinese lanterns. ‘goody-bag’ on departure. Well done to the CatStrand Youth Players who entertained everyone with a promenade performance of Tam o’ Shanter as the lantern parade made its way around the streets of New Galloway, starting at the Cross Keys and ending at the bridge where Tam was chased out of the village by the procession! Many thanks to everyone who showed up in support of the event; see you next year for an equally successful evening. 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 www.aileenmcleod.org regularly for surgery, constituency and parliamentary updates 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 7 is Working With Children “There childcare in Castle - the Job for You? Douglas but it There is a shortage of registered childcare in the Glenkens. With no registered childminders in New Galloway, Dalry, Ballmaclellan, Carsphairn, or any of the surrounding villages, parents are struggling to find quality childcare in the local community. The Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA) could help you start your own childcare business; you could embark on a rewarding career and help support your community too. Some comments from local parents are: “I have a oneyear-old and a three-yearold and have had problems finding childcare as I work. There do seem to be a lot of young children in the area, and there don’t seem to be any childminders.” is a half hour journey each way.” Why should I become a childminder? Childminders are professional childcare workers who provide a high-quality childcare service from their own homes and, like nurseries, are registered and inspected by the Care Inspectorate. Childminding provides you with the opportunity to: 1. Earn money as your own boss while still being there for your own family. 2. Run your own business from home. 3. Provide a valuable service in your community. 4. Contribute to children’s development and learning. 5. Develop new skills and qualifications. Why would parents choose a childminder? Childminders offer a flexible and unique service - unlike most nurseries, a childminding service can often extend both to evenings and weekends. Local childminding development officer Ann Hadland is keen to meet anyone interested in childminding; contact Ann on 01581 300 659 or email ann.hadland@childminding.org. Malawi Cycle Update Ian Knox, from Dalry, says: “The total money raised so far for EMMs charity is £3,510. This goes towards healthcare projects in Malawi. “A fundraising cycle run on 19 September around Loch Ken raised £678, so thank you everyone who took part.” To donate towards Ian’s fundraising cycle across Malawi in May 2013, visit: https://mydonate.bt.com/ fundraisers/ianknox1 �Glenkens Gazette page 8 EXCITING TIMES AHEAD FOR OUR Douglas. COMMUNITY BUS Castle GTI have recently been asked by The last 10 years have seen significant changes to the Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) in both the number of people who make use of the minibuses and how GTI is funded. We now own two minibuses, carried over 4,000 passengers last year, and we have our own qualified driving assessor; and the demands on our services continue to grow. The biggest challenge we face is to adapt to a 60% drop in Council funding; to offset this loss GTI now do more work for the Council such as a regular morning and afternoon school run, providing transport for the Spring Fling, and of course the Wednesday evening service into the Council to consider helping with a project making better use of community transport for adult recreational centres, day centres, hospital visits, etc – this has been successfully tried in Wigtownshire and the Council are keen to extend this into the Stewartry. It is a great testament to the success of GTI that we have been asked to consider this, but the advantages and disadvantages will be closely looked into before any decision is made, bearing in mind our main function is to provide a service for the people in the Glenkens. I would like to thank all those who have supported GTI in any way over the last decade and hope you will continue to do so in the future. Have a very happy Christmas and a healthy New Year. Keith Cooper, GTI Administrator NOTE: The midweek service into Castle Douglas on a Wednesday evening will not New Galloway be operating on either Wednesday 26 December 2012 or Wednesday 2 January 2013. FORTHCOMING TRIPS Sat 15 Dec, Ayr Xmas shopping. Friday 28 December, Carlisle - New Year sales. Thurs 3 Jan, Ayr - National Hunt Renowned Ken Bridge Sunday Racing. THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL Pre-Christmas meals served from 1st to 22nd December MEALS SERVED 12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm Lunch Carvery, ‘The Best in the West’, now in its 8th year. bed & breakfast en suite accommodation 01644 420 211 mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk ww.kenbridgehotel.co.uk HIGH MARKS FOR GTI In the August/September issue of the Gazette, questionnaires were enclosed asking your opinion of the Glenkens Transport Initiative’s (GTI) first 10 years of service. These have now been analysed and I am pleased to say most of you are very happy with our performance. 85% of the surveys received were from people who had used GTI, and comments from the small number who made more general points regarding transport issues in the area will be passed onto D&G Council. The question concerning a safe and comfortable journey received top marks from 59% of you, whilst the other 41% gave good marks but made comments about the comfort aspect, a point we shall certainly bear in mind. A few suggestions were made about the booking system, but 68% were happy. It is apparent that the majority of users are satisfied with our achievements over the last 10 years, with 86% giving top marks in this field and the remaining 14% giving 4 out of the 5 marks possible marks. 90% of you indicated you would be prepared to pay more for GTI trips, should it be necessary, and as a result of the questionnaire we should have at least one new driver, and possibly a couple of new committee members, which is great news. A draw was made from all completed questionnaires and the winners were as follows; Bottle of Bucks Fizz – Ann McLaughlin, Pair of Tickets for GTI Trips – Jacqui Excell, Tourist Map of Dumfries & Galloway – George Colbenson. Thank you to all those who took time to complete the questionaire – your comments will be considered and we hope you continue to support GTI. Glenkens Walkers The Glenkens Walking Group wish to say a special thank you to all those who supported the Soup & Sweet event, the tombola and the collection boxes, as well as those who donated prizes and cash. We raised a total of £556.35 for the Yorkhill Children’s Foundation. Well done everyone! �Glenkens Gazette page 9 We conclude our interviews with councillors for the Glenkens with Brian Collins (Scottish National Party). What are your links to the Glenkens? I originally came from East Kilbride. Back then it was still a village and who I didn’t know by name, I knew by sight. East Kilbride began to change, and my wife and I wanted the children to have the rural idyll to grow up in, so we moved here. What skills do you believe that you bring to your job as councillor? The ability to listen, to communicate, and imagination; and by the latter I mean thinking outside the box. What do you believe to be the important issues facing the Glenkens at present and how do you feel that they should be tackled? There are quite a few challenges facing not only the Glenkens, but D&G as a whole; they range from youth unemployment, to transport, to the new Welfare Rights Bills that are coming out of Westminster. What do you believe are the important issues facing councillors today and how do you feel these should be faced? One of the most significant issues that I feel that we have to deal with here is the negative feelings and attitudes towards our Council. I hope this relationship can change going forward as I feel that a positive attitude will translate in to a better understanding of the needs of communities throughout Dumfries and Galloway, making in turn a more beneficial and productive relationship. Another topic that comes to mind is the debate over whether party politics and connections are useful in local politics. My view is that party connections prove very useful. It gives the region access to more information and resources that cannot but add to the quality of decisions and action taken on a local level. What does your role as Deputy of Dumfries and Galloway Council entail? The Deputy of D&G Council acts as the civic head of the council. I am an ambassador that represents the council in recognising individual and collective actions of those who live and work within the region. What does your role as Vice-Chair on the Policy and Resources Committee entail? The Policy and Resources Committee decides Council policy and how each of the other Council departments and bodies will deal with the topics and problems put before them. It also decides what resources, in terms of funding and expertise to allocate to which departments and their issues. How would you like to see the Glenkens change over the next ten years? I believe that in my position as councillor that I am not here to be prescriptive about how I would like to see the Glenkens change in the future. My role is to act to progress and facilitate the community views and concerns, and to bring what resources I can to best achieve their goals. I believe that the current topics of concern within the community are the sustainability of the villages, limiting where possible the closure of shops and community facilities, and the retention of our young people. What issues do you plan to tackle during your term and how? It is the job of all Councillors to address all the issues facing both their communities and D&G as a whole; that said, the issues closest to my heart are those concerning our youth. The young people of Dumfries and Galloway face issues such as employment, transport and portrayal. I believe that continued nurturing and investment in our tertiary educational establishments will not only attract youth to our area and swell numbers, but will also provide a better educated populace, both professionally and vocationally. A second, but equally important issue that faces our young people today is the negative attitude in which they are regarded. I see this attitude reflected throughout the region and, for example, in the local media. What changes would you like to see to farming over the next ten years and what local and national policies would you like to see introduced to enable this? I think that the Scottish Minister, Richard Lockhead, has some very imaginative and innovative ideas with regard to farming and the countryside. Internationally there is great cache given to the products labelled ‘Made in Scotland’, and he has some great ideas on how to develop the brand, and add value. The council has assigned £50 million for improvements to rail and road networks. How would you like to see this realised in the Glenkens? Ideally I would like to see the A713 given more importance. It is very much seen as a route to exit D&G, but I would like to see some consideration given to it becoming a primary route in to the Galloway Forest Park and the Biosphere, enabling in turn the Glenkens to be seen and developed as the gateway. Do you feel that the relaxation of planning in the form of the ‘Smallholding Policy’ in the upper Glenkens has achieved its aim? I certainly think that it has succeeded in bringing more people, including families to live in the area, and that in itself is positive. I think that with every new project it has to be regularly evaluated to ensure that it is addressing the issues that it was engineered to. I would also add that as well as addressing the needs and aspirations of the local communities, one eye needs to be cast to the market in its current state. Brian Collins available by appointment - call 01644 420 849 or email brian.collins@dumgal.gov.uk by Sara McNeill 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 10 CatStrand Highlights Come down to the CatStrand and enjoy some warming festive cheer over the cold winter months. The young Highland five-piece Breabach bring their fresh dynamic blend of traditional and modern to the CatStrand on Wednesday 28 November, and we can’t wait to see what these Radio 2 Folk Award winners have in store. Channel 4’s Mark Dolan - comedian, presenter, and documentary maker - will be providing us with the comedy injection needed at this time of year. Star of documentary series ‘Balls of Steel’ and ‘The Worlds... and Me’, Mark Dolan shares his views on everything from politics to married life. A real highlight on Friday 30 November, and be sure to book your pre-event dinner. Daimh and special guest singer Kathleen MacInnes will perform songs connected with Christmas, new year and midwinter on Thursday 20 December. These exceptionally talented musicians thrill with their close-knit instrumental style and haunt you with their ballads. The winter programme would not be complete without our CatStrand Christmas Panto on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 December; going by last year’s performance, there will be plenty of hilarity. Mark Dolan Pick up a programme for full listings, or to book tickets call 01644 420 374 or visit www.catstrand.com The CatStrand Needs YOU! Following on from the successful birthday celebrations, it has been decided to reinvigorate the Friends of the CatStrand. The financial support from the Friends over the years has been extremely valuable, but it was agreed that the arrangements had lost some impetus and needed to be reviewed. The CatStrand has become recognised as a first rate national arts performance venue and it is a vibrant hub and focal point for the local community. As it considers the challenges for the future in these times of recession, it recognises that it is as financially vulnerable as any other arts organisation and social enterprise in the country. It, too, has fallen victim to public sector spending cuts, reduced budgets and lack of core funding. If it is to continue its commitment of bringing quality arts and community events to this remote rural area of Scotland, it needs to find extra financial subsidy. A small group have been looking at the current arrangements to see how they can provide additional support to the CatStrand. The plan is to launch a new Friends and Patrons of the CatStrand scheme during the Christmas shopping day at the CatStrand on 24 November. There will be an annual cost for joining, and the new arrangements will come into effect on 1 January 2013. All current Friends will receive information directly about how it affects them, and in particular the additional benefits available from next year. So how can you help? If you have not already done so, you can sign up as a Friend or Patron and support the delivery of successful arts and community projects to the people of the Glenkens and its welcomed visitors. In return for your support, you will be invited to events such as exhibition launches and other events organised exclusively for Friends and Patrons. As a token of the CatStrand’s and the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust’s (GCAT) appreciation, a discount for any shop purchases will also be available. More importantly, being a Friend will not only provide a wide range of benefits and promotions, but will also give a true sense of involvement in the CatStrand’s future success. Full information will be available from 24 November from the CatStrand and on www.catstrand.com - in the meantime, if you have any comments please email friends@catstrand.com or call 01644 420374. The Glenkens Trust Concerned that D&G Council proposals would dissipate any community benefit monies from windfarm developments across the region and away from the Glenkens, The Glenkens Business Association (GBA) has taken the initiative to set up The Glenkens Trust. Registered as a Scottish Charity Incorporated Organisation, as a completely independent body, the Trust can receive and dispense benefit monies. community councils, businesses, community organisations and individuals all have the opportunity to become members of this Trust. Please contact GBA chair Ros Hill for further information on 01644 420 632. �Glenkens Gazette page 11 �Glenkens Gazette page 12 �Glenkens Gazette page 13 �Glenkens Gazette page 14 �Glenkens Gazette page 15 Clatteringshaws Trip ZOMBIES RAISE On Monday 24 September P3/4 from Dalry School and P1-4 from Kells Primary School spent a damp but enjoyable day at Clatteringshaws as part of their Scotland topic and as well as a ‘Forest Schools’ activity. Both classes have spent time this term looking at the Scottish Wars of Independence and this was their opportunity to touch a piece of history as they viewed Bruce’s Stone, a spot that King Robert the Bruce is reported to have visited himself in 1307.Close to the stone is a reconstruction of an Iron Age roundhouse which the children enjoyed looking around, though I don’t think they would trade in their own house for one! After this the children were given time to investigate the visitor centre and look around the Animal Zone. The afternoon was spent in the surrounding woodland as the children investigated the use of natural materials to build dens among the trees. The children relished the opportunity to see this piece of local history and to spend the day in the great outdoors and would happily do it again, come rain or shine! CASH FOR GOLF On Friday 9 November at the CatStrand a unique event took place...the showing of the film Zombie Flesh Eaters! This classic 1979 horror is an infamous cult hit of the genre, and the showing coincided with the national re-release on dvd blue ray of the film. Ian McCulloch, the star of the film and a member of New Galloway Golf Club, presented the evening. The event raised over £200 for Club funds. Thanks go to the staff of the CatStrand for their considerable help and assistance in staging this event. New Galloway is a very friendly club and members and visitors alike will get a warm welcome. This coming season, the Golf Club will be linking up with the CatStrand who can provide refreshments and golfing accessories. Anyone who wants more information or is keen to join the Club should contact the Club secretary on 01644 420 737. For further information visit www.nggc.co.uk People Who Help in Our Community Children Meet Alex P1/2 from Dalry School and P1 from Carsphairn Primary School have been finding out about the People Who Help in Our Community this term. Firstly, they visited the Glenkens Medical Practice in New Galloway where they found out about all of the different jobs and explored the different areas that they use in the surgery. They then walked to the fire station, where they were told about all of the different types of emergencies that the fire team are asked to help with. It was a great afternoon which brought the learning that has been taking place in the classroom to life. Children visiting the Glenkens Medical Practice. Fergusson MSP Upper primary pupils from Dalry and Kells invited Mr Alex Fergusson MSP to attend a Question and Answer Session at Dalry School. This was part of their topic work last term on the ‘Glenkens Commons’. The pupils asked him a variety of questions about his job as an MSP as well as current local and national issues. Macmillan Coffee Morning Primary 7 pupils from Kells hosted the annual Macmillan Coffee Morning at the Cross Keys Hotel recently. The pupils have raised an amazing £1007.49 so far with money still to come in. The pupils would like to thank the New Galloway community for supporting the event. A big thank you to Miss O’Hare for allowing the pupils to use the Cross Keys Hotel for the coffee morning. Thank you also to parents and family members who attended, worked at, and donated baking and raffle prizes to the Macmillan Coffee Morning. �Glenkens Gazette page 16 Glenkens Community Council Update Balmaclellan: The newly elected office bearers are Neil Cawthorne (Chair), Lee Cawthorne (Secretary), Ryan Grierson (Vice Chair) and Alan Rumble (Treasurer). CC members are June Hay, Jim Kirkpatrick, Robin Jardine, Sandra Dempster and Dave Paterson. The Senior Citizens Christmas Lunch will be on Tuesday 18 Dec, and there will be a Children’s Christmas Party on Saturday 15 December. Carsphairn: The newly elected office bearers are: Andrew Metcalf (Chair), Tony Challis (Secretary), Liz Holmes (Vice Chair) and Anne Rutherford (Treasurer). CC members are Sylvia Sinclair, Matt Hickman and Maggie Phillips. Dalry: The newly elected office bearers are Andi Holmes (Chair), Andrew Mellor (Vice Chair), Moira Jones (Secretary) and Gerald Bell (Treasurer). CC members are: Maggi Kay, Nicolette Wise, Pat Woodley and Andrew Belinski and Jim Reid. Last year Dalry Community Council (CC) bought the red heritage phone box by Bone’s Garage for re-use by the community. We have yet to decide exactly what to do with it; a tourist information point has been suggested, and to house a defibrillator for first responders use is another idea. The CC welcome any suggestions from the residents of Dalry (email the Gazette with ideas). Dalry CC is involved in a new renewable energy project - see article on p17. New Galloway & Kells: The newly elected office bearers are Brian Edgar (Chairman), James McKenna (Vice Chair), Chris Newman (Secretary) and John McGaw (Treasurer). CC Members are Julia Brown, Andrew Frew, Phillip Holmes, Vic McIntosh, Lyndy Renwick, George Scott, John Thom and Margaret Watson. Meetings are held on the second Monday each month and are open to the public. If you have any issues that you would like to raise, please come along or raise the matter with any Community Councillor. The annual Christmas Lunch for all senior citizens of Kells parish will be held on Saturday 15 December at 12.30pm; venue to be confirmed. Anyone wishing to go should add their name to the lists available in the Post Office, Hopkins Shop, the CatStrand, Mossdale Shop and the Glenkens Hair Studio. See p23 for details of all Glenkens CC meeting days and times. ALEX FERGUSSON MSP The Cross Keys Hotel New Galloway 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 We have 10 cosy en-suite bedrooms with TV/ DVD/Radio and tea and coffee making facilities, a traditional bar with a good selection of Real Ales, Malts and a welcoming log fire and an excellent restaurant specialising in fresh, local produce. We have wi-fi access, drying facilities, secure bike storage, off road parking for motorbikes, firearms safe... and lots of local knowledge! We welcome well-behaved and ‘dog friendly’ dogs. Traditional Hospitality at its Very Best Every Monday, 7.15pm, Texas Hold ‘em Poker Every Wednesday, 8.30pm, fundraising quiz Every Friday, Fish Friday, fish meal for £8.95 Tel: 01644 420 494 Email: enquiries@thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk www.thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk �Glenkens Gazette page 17 CATSTRAND CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME Community The CatStrand Youth Players are looking forward Renewable Energy Scheme to presenting their second pantomime on Dumfries & Galloway Council is the first local authority in Scotland to be working with Community Energy Scotland to take part in this Intelligent Energy Europe project. Following interest from the Glenkens Business Association (GBA), Dalry Community Council and Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING), the Glenkens has been selected to take part. It is hoped that all Glenkens Community Councils will be involved. Thursday 6 and Friday 7 December, at 7.30pm in the CatStrand. This year’s production is Old Mother Hubbard by Paul Reakes - perhaps not one of the best known pantomime stories, but it promises to be just as funny and enjoyable as Cinderella proved to be last year. Old Mother Hubbard, her cupboard bare of course, is granted a wish by the Good Fairy and despite the more obvious suggestions of her son Hughie and daughter Polly, she chooses to be re-united with her long lost brother Ossie, as she knows that he will be able to help her. Many exciting and entertaining adventures ensue, and of course everyone lives happily ever after in the end, and Old Mother Hubbard’s cupboard is never bare again. The Youth Players hope that you will be able to join them on their Wild West adventure! Photo of the Issue Participating communities will benefit from advice and guidance to investigate and take forward sustainable energy projects over a three year period. These could include schemes using biomass, micro hydroelectric, solar photovoltaic, solar thermal, ground/air source and wind. The next stage for the Glenkens is having a steering group formed by a representative from each Community Council to look into what projects the community would like to see developed and how they can be funded from sustainable energy schemes. With the many groups now involved with different aspects of sustainable energy development and possible benefits to the community, it is proposed that public meetings are held in the New Year (for further information contact Ros Hill on 01644 420 632). Ros Hill 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 This issue’s winner is Paul Goodwin with a striking shot of wild goats on Corserine. Paul wins a meal for two at the Thistle Inn in Crossmichael. Next issue’s prize will be a meal for two at the Ken Bridge Hotel (up to the value of £30), so send in your photos! �Glenkens Gazette page 18 AGNES COOKS… MINCEMEAT A jar of mincemeat is not just for Christmas... Halfway through November I begin to think about my Christmas trio; cake, pudding (for the only member of my family that likes it) and mincemeat. The cake, if I am being honest, has become one of those traditions that is made but rarely finished; visitors will nearly always have a hot mince pie in preference to Christmas cake and so in the end the last of it is usually fed to the birds in January. You will have guessed by my tone that the pudding is also made out of a sense of tradition, but at least it is always eaten... Mincemeat, however, I love to make because it is very easy, involves almost no cooking, keeps well and is never wasted as there are plenty of ways of using it up; it is lovely stuffed into a cored cooking apple with some pieces of marzipan and baked; a few spoonfuls can be added to fruit before baking a crumble, made into muffins, biscuits, even a delicious stuffing for homemade doughnuts, and as a lighter pudding for Christmas it adds a seasonal flavour to homemade ice cream. One of the joys of making your own mincemeat is that you can add or take away ingredients and make it your own. For example, I dislike chopped peel and brandy but love cranberries and Amaretto. You can make it very orangey by adding marmalade and Grand Marnier. Traditional recipes use suet, which has become rather unfashionable, but I think its inclusion is important as mincemeat made without it has a less unctuous texture, more like fruit chutney. You can substitute vegetable suet for the beef variety if you like though. The sugar and alcohol help with preservation, but you can reduce the quantities of these and even substitute fruit juice for the alcohol. The recipe below will make just over 2kg of mincemeat: Two medium cooking apples (cored and chopped but not peeled) 250g raisins 250g sultanas 250g currants 250g mixed peel or mixture of cranberries/ chopped apricots / cherries) 50g roughly chopped blanched almonds 250g shredded suet 250g soft brown sugar Grated zest and juice of 2 lemons 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 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.  01556 502263  VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS Grated zest and juice of 2 oranges 2 teaspoons of mixed spice 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1⁄2 freshly grated nutmeg 200ml of Brandy/Grand Marnier/ Cointreau/Amaretto... Put all of the ingredients (except the alcohol) into a large pan and mix thoroughly. Cover and leave overnight. The next day (still covered) put into a pre-heated oven, set at 120°C/gas mark 1⁄4, for about three hours. When removed from the oven the suet will have melted and risen to the surface. As the mincemeat cools, stir it now and again. When cold, stir in the alcohol and put into sterilised jars. Kept in a cool place, it will keep for about a year. 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. Festive Period Opening Hours: Thurs 20 Dec: 9am–6pm, Fri 21 Dec: 9am–5pm Mon 24 Dec: 9am–1pm Thurs 27 Dec: 9am–6pm, Fri 28 Dec: 9am–5pm Thurs 3 Jan: 9am–6pm Fri 4 Jan: 9am–5pm Call to book: 01644 420 616 FHB Fencing Dalry Domestic and Agricultural Fencing 01644 430 495 (Peter) or 07767 795 498 (Jonathan) �Glenkens Gazette page 19 Spalding Rounds Up Spalding Bowling Club rounded off their centenary year with their annual social and prizegiving at the Clachan Inn. 2012 prize winners. This year the Gents Champion was Matt Taylor in his first year of bowling here at Spalding, with the runnerup being Eric Broadhurst. The Ladies’ Champion was Eliz Peacock with Mabel Young being the runner up. ����������������������������������������������������� • Pensions • Savings • Investments • Retirement Options • Inheritance Tax Planning • Life Assurance • Income & Critical Illness Protection • Mortgages • Home Insurance Free Confidential Initial Consultation are now Clachan Fair 2013 Plans well under way for next year’s Fair, and the committee could do with some additional help. There are all sorts of jobs which need doing beforehand and during the week, and new ideas are welcome, so please don’t be shy in coming forward! If you would be willing to offer your services in any way, call Sally Hooker on 01644 430 120 or see anyone on the committe. Tel: 01671 403080 Fax:- 01671 402549 Email: brian.edgar@marrfinancial.co.uk Web: www.marrfinancial.co.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 20 It All Started in Balmaclellan We have all seen cairns and standing stones, some of which will mark battles or lives lost or even great deeds; but when did the erection of war memorials begin? You would be forgiven for supposing that war memorials were first erected following the First World War, or even from the Boer War some years before that. The truth is that the erection of civic war memorials in Scotland began in 1857 at Balmaclellan. The Dumfries & Galloway Standard of Wednesday 17 May 1857 reported: ‘In memory of the departed brave...a monument is being erected in Balmaclellan burial-ground, in memory of five young men, natives of, or lately residing in the parish, who were cut down in battle, or died of disease in the Crimea.’ Research in 2007 by members of the Scottish Military Research Group confirmed that this is the only Crimean Civic War Memorial in Scotland, and as well as being unique, is also the oldest civic war memorial in Scotland. The red sandstone pillar stands around six feet high and is in Balmaclellan churchyard at the opposite end of the church to the entrance. It has carvings on its four sides of a cannon, a rifle, crossed sword and musket GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL  01644 420234  with bayonet and lighter stick with grapeshot. The men listed on the memorial are: Lance Corporal James McMichael, Lance Corporal Joseph Gordon, Thomas McRobert, James Gibson and William Barr. Balmaclellan lost another son at Crimea; the prominent grave beside the entrance to the church records the death of Lieutenant John Henry Upton Spalding, who also has a stained glass window memorial in St Margaret’s Episcopal church in New Galloway. The memorial featured in Adam Brown’s article in the December 2008 issue of The Scottish Genealogist: The Quarterly Journal of the Scottish Genealogy Society and an application to Historic Scotland by Paul Goodwin, supported by the Reverend Doctor David Bartholomew, resulted in the church and churchyard at Balmaclellan being listed grade B (of national importance) in September 2009 and specific mention is made in the listing of the Crimean Memorial. Jane Brayshaw recently uncovered a poem about the memorial in the papers of the Balmaclellan Community Council, but alas the author is not given. The last two verses are: Of wounds, and toil, and cold they died, There too, brave Spalding won, A glorious name – like hero died, Beside his conquering gun. He and those five sleep far from Holme, And Garple’s wooded glen, Their worth shall e’er remembered be, By those, who live by Ken. If anyone has any information about the memorial, the men listed or the authorship of the poem, please contact Paul Goodwin on 07973 174 342. Members of the Scottish Military Research Group are in the process of writing a short book about the memorial. Paul Goodwin Glenkens Business Association (GBA) To represent businesses in the area, Ros Hill as GBA Chairman has been invited to take part in the Community Liaison Group being set up by Orbit Communications on behalf of Burcote Wind as part of their consultation process. Ros would like to be in touch with all businesses, whether or not members of the GBA. If you would like to know more, or if you have any ideas, please email Ros at ros.hill@rathanhouse.co.uk It is important to note that neither the GBA nor the Glenkens Trust (see p16) have taken a view on whether or not any commercial windfarms should be established. Cllr Finlay Carson Castle Douglas & Glenkens for an appointment Tel: 07825 633 185 or email: finlay@finlaycarson.co.uk www.finlaycarson.co.uk 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 jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk �Glenkens Gazette page 21 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN Arctic Wanderings A White Christmas is defined as one when snow falls on Christmas Day. England experienced only seven of them during the twentieth century. In our part of the world we had roughly a 35% chance of a White Christmas between 1950 and 2006; they were much more common between the 1580s and the 1850s when ponds, lochs and rivers regularly froze to provide sport for community curling clubs. So popular was the ‘roaring game’ that the curling potential of Canada was advertised in the nineteenth century as a potential lure for Scottish immigrants. Since snow is not that common in Galloway, perhaps we may view it vicariously, through the eyes of two Glenkens residents who both ventured into the Arctic. The first, Alexander Trotter, was a fourth generation medical doctor. He spent most of his working life in Northumberland, but in later years bought Dalshangan as a holiday and retirement home where he wrote his excellent East Galloway Sketches (1901). In 1856, at the age of 21, he served as surgeon on the Enterprise, a whaling ship sailing out of Fraserburgh. By the end of March the ship was beset in ice off Jan Mayen Island. He took a turn in the Crow’s Nest, hunted seals, struggled with seasickness and experienced some ferocious stormy weather, and said: “There is decidedly a beauty in a storm, as well as in a calm untroubled sea, that beauty being mixed with grandeur and sublimity”. His conclusion was that “on the whole I may say I have just liked this voyage middling; sometimes, as in a storm, it was not very pleasant, whereas at other times, in a calm, I felt that I liked the sea finely. The terrible oaths and curses I got used to and as yet I must say that the voyage has done me a great deal of good”. The second Arctic venturer from the Glenkens is Captain Alexander Clark-Kennedy of the Coldstream Guards. When he died, at the early age of 43, he was buried in a tomb which he had commissioned on the Craig above his ancestral home of Knockgray, Carsphairn. A keen ornithologist, like many of his contemporaries he saw no conflict in shooting birds for sport. I own a copy of his epic poem, Robert the Bruce, bound in calfskin. In 1878 he published ‘To The Arctic Regions and Back in Six Weeks Being a Summer Tour to Lapland and Norway with Notes on Sport and Natural History’ which was designed to remind British travellers of the proximity of the European Arctic. He was Mystery Animal? This photograph was taken in April 2011 by Glenkens resident Emma Gibson, on the High Road between Dalry and Carsphairn, on the other side of the Deugh by the bad corners near the Marbrack road end. She wonders whether anyone else saw it, and if you have any ideas what it may be...? A seal, a bird... or just a bit of white plastic? Let us know if you have any suggestions! correct; Galloway, Dumfries and the Borders lie rather neatly along the 55th parallel. The Arctic Circle is only some eleven degrees to the north. Clark-Kennedy and his wife set sail from Hull. On crossing the Circle, no-one on deck spoke and “the extreme stillness and solitude was very striking and the effect solemn”. He fished whenever practicable and purchased Sami spoons, walrus tusks and ten pairs of reindeer antlers. Ultimately he found endless daylight “rather monotonous”, but he also approvingly quoted a writer who observed that Arctic views were so breathtaking that “it seemed culpable to go to bed”. It is worth noting that although reindeer are conspicuous in his text, there is no mention of Santa Claus or Christmas. All of that legendary accretion lay in the future. In 1878 the kids of Glenkens and elsewhere in the region still attended school on Christmas Day. Admittedly they would often party, play games and present the teacher with a gift, but the main lesson of the day was that learning had priority over frivolity. Season’s Greetings! Ted Cowan �Glenkens Gazette page 22 OCTOBER & NOVEMBER ‘Some time after placing the ad I received a number of positive responses, showing that people do remember what they see in the Gazette, even if they don’t respond immediately!’ Helen NOVEMBER Wed 28, Breabach, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 30, Mark Dolan, 7.30pm, CatStrand DECEMBER Sat 1, Craft Fair, 10am-4pm, Dalry Town Hall Wed 5, deadline for local grants through Glenkens Community Shop, see p4 Wed 5, Open Stage, 7pm, CatStrand Thurs 6 & Fri 7, CatStrand Panto, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 15, Bus Trip; Ayr - Christmas shopping, see p8 Thurs 20, Dàimh ho ho ho; rogheallaidh, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 28, Film: Mary Poppins, 4.30pm, CatStrand Fri 28, Bus Trip; Carlisle - New Year sales, see p8 JANUARY Thurs 3, Bus Trip; Ayr - National Hunt Racing, see p8 Thurs 17, Carsphairn Burns Supper, 7.30pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn, see ad below Sat 19, McGill Duncan Gallery Winter Exhibition, see back page Thurs 24, Film: Anna Karenina, 7.30pm, CatStrand FEBRUARY FESTIVE PERIOD BUS CHANGES: The midweek GTI service (see below) into Castle Douglas on a Wednesday evening will not be operating on either Wednesday 26 December or Wednesday 2 January. CARSPHAIRN BURNS SUPPER Thurs 17th January, 7.30pm Speakers to Include: Graham Bell (Immortal Memory), Andrew Dunlop (Toast to the Lassies) Chairman Robert McTurk Tickets £10 Phone Jean Gibbon on 01644 460 244 Sat 9, CatStrand Burns Supper, 7.30pm. CatStrand * please note amended date * Sat 9, Photography; The Next Step, see p3 Tue 12, Balmaclellan & Kells Guild 16th Annual Pancake Lunch, 12noon-2pm, New Galloway Town Hall Fri 15, Valentine’s Disco (for Glenkens primary children), Dalry School, organised by Friends of Dalry School (FoDS) Fri 22, Race Night, fundraising for FoDS, location to be confirmed 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. �Glenkens Gazette page 23 ...GLENKENS DIARY REGULAR EVENTS: CatStrand (New Galloway): Exercise to Music: Mon, 1011am Children’s Dance Class: Mon during term time, 3.45-4.45pm 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 Zumbatomic, last Sat each month,10-10.45am Catstrand Youth Players: Sun during term time, 2pm Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, last Sun of the month, 2-4pm, not on in December Glenkens Community Centre (Dalry): Contact: Kath 430 281 Glenkens Children’s Club: Mon & Fri, 9.15-11.45am Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm & 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 Thursday Craft Group: Thurs, 2-4pm Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm Guides: Tue during term-time, 6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281 Various Locations: Texas Hold ‘em Poker, Mon, 7.15pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.45-11.15am, New Galloway Town Hall Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Dog Training: Tue & Wed, 7pm, Glenkens Community Councils Balmaclellan Community Council Meetings: Last Monday each month, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall. Carsphairn Community Council Meetings: Last Monday each month, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn. Dalry Community Council Meetings: 1st Monday each month, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. New Galloway & Kells Community Council Meetings: 2nd Monday each month, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall. Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library. CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon: 1st Carsphairn: 10.30am: 1st,2nd,3rd,4th,5th Dalry: 12noon: 1st,2nd(Jan),3rd,4th Kells: 10.30am: 2nd,3rd,4th Special Services/Events: Sun 9 Dec, 10.30am, United Family Service, Kells Church. Sun 9 Dec, 6.30pm, Carols by Candlelight in Dalry Church. Wed 12 Dec, 10am, Guild Christmas Coffee Morning, New Galloway Town Hall. Sat 22 Dec, 5pm, Carsphairn Church Community Christmas Service & Children’s Party. Mon 24 Dec, 11.30pm, Watchnight Service, Kells Church. Tue 25,10.30am, Christmas Day Family Service, Dalry Church. Sun 30 Dec,10.30am, United Service with Choir, Carsphairn 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 Dalry Town Hall. Wed 10 Oct last session until Tue 8 Jan. Contact: Eric 460 670 Wednesday Quiz Night, Wed, 8.30pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway 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 Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Folk Music Session: 1st Sat each month, 8pm, The Clachan Inn, Dalry Dalry Library (Tel: 430 234) Opening Times: 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 please phone. ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 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 �Glenkens Gazette page 24 I have really strong childhood memories of Christmas at the McGill Duncan Gallery, long before my family owned it. I remember the gallery had dark hessian covered walls, dimly lit lamps and interesting antiques and furniture. At the crowded openings, everyone clustered to view the paintings while sipping mulled wine. I wasn’t drinking the wine, but I loved helping myself to one or two mint imperials from a bowl in a little wooden alcove... Things have changed at the gallery, and we have redecorated, but the little wooden alcove is still there and it is now one of my favourite places for displaying ceramics. We have carried on with the tradition of making mulled wine, and this year we will be having a Saturday morning opening and an evening reception. The start of the Winter Exhibition is a very social event, with groups of friends meeting up every year to see the paintings. We always open the gallery in the week between Christmas and New Year, and serve ginger wine and chocolates every day. Surprisingly, after the Christmas rush, it is one of our busiest times for selling art. This year we will have a selection of older Galloway paintings alongside some of our favourite contemporary artists. In the five years that we have owned the gallery, we have built strong working relationships with some of the finest artists in Scotland. We feel very lucky that these Antony the gallery dog. Christmas at the Gallery artists now produce work specially for the gallery. This year Sandy Murphy RSW RGI PAI has painted us a truly wonderful painting of Crossmichael church (below). Both Jill and I are looking forward to this Winter Exhibition with much excitement. Zoe Blamire See ad below for details of the Winter Exhibition. ������������������������������������������������������ ����������������� ������������������ �������������������� �������������������������������� ������������������������� ����������������� ����������������� ��������������������������� 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: MON 7 JAN 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/. 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Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry December/January 2012 ISSUE 73 FREE NEW CHILDREN’S CLUB IN LINE FOR AWARD The club, which has been named as a finalist in the Volunteer of the Year category in the Dumfres & Galloway Life People of the Year Awards 2012, was set up in response to council cuts which lead to the closure of the Glenkens Playgroup. Helen Keron, chairman of the club, says: “I’m delighted that we have been nominated and shortlisted for one of the D&G Life awards. It’s a real recognition of the huge effort a lot of people have put in to ensure that the amazing childcare facilities at the Dalry Community Centre are not lost. The Club is going from strength to strength, with more than 25 children attending some of our holiday events. To be in the running for this award makes us feel very proud.” The Volunteer of the Year Award is made to voluntary or charitable groups dedicated to making a difference to life in the region. Judges are looking for innovative ideas and exceptional community engagement and results. Since the council’s closure of the Dalry-based playgroup, the GCC has offered a similar mix of stimulating play and activities with the involvement of parents, other relatives and carers as well as a holiday programme of artistic events and outings. The D&G Life Awards for 2012 will be announced at a ceremony at Easterbrook Hall, Dumfries, on 29 November. Glenkens Children’s Club meets at Dalry Community Centre on Mondays and Fridays from 9.15am to 11.45am. Fees are £2 for children over 6 months, £1 for subsequent children. Bird Festival Success Giant owl visiting Dalry School. This year’s Watson Bird Festival, held in Dalry, was a great success according to participants, visitors, local businesses and local residents. Over 750 people attended the weekend’s events and the village was buzzing with activity. There was a wide variety of events and activities on offer, from exhibitions to storytelling, music to lectures. Our weekend concluded with wonderfully mellow music on the harp, cello and flute by the Rhona Mackay Trio in The Clachan Inn, and on Saturday evening Dalry residents were thrilled with the depiction of Donald Watson’s paintings on the gable end of Margaret Hamilton’s house. Roger Crofts A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve NEW WEBSITE: www.glenkensgaze�e.co.uk GCC having a visit from the Animal Man’s Mini Zoo in the October holidays. The group of volunteers who started the Glenkens Children’s Club (GCC) has been short-listed for a prestigious award. Glenkens Gazette page 2 THE CRAYFISH CONUNDRUM One of the hottest topics of conversation for some time in the Glenkens has been that of crayfish. The American signal crayfish appeared in our waters in the 1980s, and numbers have continued to grow ever since. Both local and visiting fishermen began to notice the impact that they were having on the fish populations in Loch Ken, and soon hoteliers, B&B owners and other local businesses started noticing that the fishermen, with their vital repeat bookings, were no longer coming to the area. It was then that the crayfish question was brought to the New Galloway community council. The decision was made early on to treat this as a priority, and local concerns were put before both the Scottish Government and Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH). SNH sent down experts to monitor and attempt to contain the crayfish population. Unfortunately the crayfish have spread to other rivers and burns, so one Glenkens resident decided, along with other interested parties, to set up an independent committee focusing solely on the crayfish question. The New Galloway community council remains supportive of appropriate action being taken to deal with the crayfish issue, but is not directly involved in any of the measures currently being discussed or taken to deal with them. The face of the crayfish committee is at present John Thom, former bailiff for the New Galloway Angling Club and current bailiff for the Dalry Angling Association. John tells us that, having looked at many options, the crayfish committee have applied to SNH for a scientific and commercial trapping licence. The premise for this is that, as it is unlikely that we will ever get rid of them, why not turn their appearance in to a positive and make an income out of them whilst controlling numbers. The licence will be held by the six committee members who will then contract out the business of trapping to a commercial crayfish trapping company. This idea has been met with mixed responses from local people, with FESTIVE WISHES Thomas Armstrong (Construction) Ltd would like to wish Gazette readers all the best for the festive season. We will keep you updated on progress on the Dalry housing development. If you wish to contact our Site Manager, please call 07967 340 592 or 01900 68211. www.thomasarmstrong.co.uk Supporting your local community through the Glenkens Gazette. some in the area believing that a commercial contractor may grow on the small crayfish on site, raising the chance of them spreading, or that it may encourage others to illegally trap in order to supplement their incomes. The idea of controlling their spread is contentious in itself, as there are rumours of their presence in both the Nith and the Clyde. Others believe that this issue could be dealt with on a local level, by having an annual crayfish festival, inviting locals and tourists alike to trap them, and then holding a music and food event. The crayfish committee have looked into this and, although the social side of the festival is a great idea, they say the strict regulations regarding trapping make this impossible. The application for a licence is now in the hands of SNH, but in the meantime the crayfish committee welcomes any fresh and imaginative ideas that seek to control crayfish numbers, prevent their spread and maintain a balanced ecosystem in our waterways. To get in touch with the committee please contact John Thom on 07776 116 819. Sara McNeill Bargatton Sand & Gravel Supplying sand and gravel for all your farming needs, as well as households and businesses both large and small. In Stock: Concrete sand, building sand, washed gravels including peagravel and 20-40mm draining gravel. £15 per tonne + VAT. Aggregate mix £15.50 per tonne + VAT. For further details contact: Angus Wilson, Quarry Manager - 07715 606 685 James Mair - 07793 085 243 Email: loch.bargatton@live.co.uk Bargatton Quarry, Laurieston, Castle Douglas, DG7 2PS Open 7 days Mon-Fri Weekends by arrangement Delivery can be arranged - subject to quantity Glenkens Gazette page 3 WHO’S EATING THE CRAYS? During the last two summers the remains of signal crayfish have appeared atop a grassy knoll beside the river Ken. Whoever kills and eats the crayfish does a very neat job of eating the head without damaging the shell... It might be otters, but they would eat by the river’s edge, or herons, but they would probably swallow them whole and could not clean out the shell...so my guess is crows. Just below Earlstoun power station are a number of shingle beds that dry out whenever the turbines are turned off. Crayfish could become trapped in pockets of water and as these dry, try to crawl over the shingle in search of safe water; easy pickings for an inquisitive crow... Unfortunately, there is plenty of deep water where the crayfish can hide, and a few dozen less will have no impact on the problems that they pose. Gazette reader, Dalry Stewartry Camera Club Recently, the Stewartry Camera Club was awarded grant support by Awards for All Scotland. As part of the submitted project, we agreed to hold an open day and training. A course, entitled ‘Photography - The Next Step’, will be held on Saturday, 9 February. The trainer will be Alwyn Howes, and the cost is £5. To book, or for further details, contact Mary McIlvenna 01644 420 613. Mary, Grant Co-ordinator St Margaret’s Raises Over £3,000 At the recent AGM of St Margaret’s Church Ladies Guild, it was reported that over £3,000 had been raised for a variety of charities and good causes over the past year. Causes include Dumfries & Galloway Befriending Project, Sports for Special Needs, Combat Stress, Friends of Dalry School and the new Glenkens Children’s Club. President Christine Rankin says: “We are a small group of ladies but punch well above our weight!” Diary date for next year: Plant and Bake Sale, Saturday 27 April. Stag Tea Room & Garden T. H. CARSON Tel: 01644 460 211 Enter a stranger, leave as a friend and return as a regular! Open Mon to Sat 8am-5pm Sun 9am-5pm See us at Dalry Farmers Market on the 2nd Saturday of each month Free delivery every Thursday Come and enjoy a light meal including HomeMade Pies, Scones and Soups, Rolls with hot or cold fillings. Now taking orders for Christmas - and don’t forget to order your New Year roasts & steak pies... Carricks, Main Street, Carsphairn, DG7 3TQ Now stocking handmade chocolates from The Moniaive Chocolatiers. Our Garden has a wonderful view and the Tea Room is open all year. We now have a lottery terminal in the shop. Take out menu available - ring in your order in and we can have it ready for collection. BUTCHERS Give us a call, no order too small! Fresh turkeys • copas free range turkeys • geese, ducks, etc • Christmas Hamper • 4 pork chops 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 £32.99! Glenkens Gazette page 4 sponsored by EVERYTHING listed in the Glenkens Freecycle section 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 Sofa, green leather, 3-seater, as new except one seat cushion inner is missing; the leather cover is there but foam cushion is missing... Contact: 460 673 Various Fishing rods; 2 spinning rods, 1 split cane, 1 fibreglass, with reels. Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 Nursery Fire Guard. Mothercare, extendable, brass. Contact: Jean on 420 372. Out-of-date but sealed and unused Canon BCI24C colour cartridges. Contact: 430 293 Child’s scooter. Contact: 430 218. Washing machine, AEG, working except for a fault on the spin cycle which is most probably fixable but haven’t tried as don’t need the machine now. Contact: 07727 127 997 Kodak Easyprint printer and scanner, in perfect working order. Contact: George on 430 090 or 07920 125 816 Panasonic KXP2124 dot matrix printer for continuous paper with its parallel cable. Contact: 430 293 DIY/Home Fittings Extra thick felt carpet underlay, new and unused 9 metres x 1.37metres. Contact: 420 613. WANTED Non-working chest freezer or other suitable item to use for the storage of animal feed – will collect. Contact: 01644 450 201. Bunk beds. Contact: Dawn 07774 543 465 Freezer, any sort; chest or upright. Will collect. Contact Helen: 07789 693 698 Call Out: Will the couple from New Galloway who bought a Robin petrol generator from me sometime ago please call me on 07754 644 993 as I have now found the instruction manual. Sue LOCAL GRANTS AVAILABLE The deadline for applications for Glenkens Community Shop grants will be Wednesday 5 December, so please get applications to us by then. The association’s objectives are: (a) The advancement of citizenship and community development within the Glenkens. (b) The relief of those in need by reason of age, disability, financial hardship or any other disadvantage. Both organisations and individuals can apply for a grant. Application forms are available from Glenkens Community Shop, 34 Main St, Dalry and should be addressed for the attention of Shirley McNaught. Completed forms can be dropped into the shop either in person or sent by post. Glenkens Gazette page 5 sponsored by In this issue we take a look at a local company with an admirable, eco-friendly company ethos. “Putting the Environment Before Profit” is the motto of the fascinatingly named Tsarina Imperial Dacha Company that has chosen to base itself in the Glenkens. Owner Michael Dutton is passionate about his subject, and his subject is log buildings. His two previous careers - as an army Arctic Warfare and Survival Instructor and then as an electrical and software engineer - took him around the world, and it was his travels in Russia and Norway that first introduced him to the logbuilt cabin. Michael saw in log cabins a more natural way of living; a more energy efficient, stronger, and affordable alternative to the timber-framed houses built in the UK today. Michael’s goal when he returned home was to educate people about log cabins as a viable and more natural way of living, and set up a business to manufacture them. Five years ago, he set up the Tsarina Imperial Dacha Company, inspired by the dachas or holiday homes of Russia and three years ago, taken with the landscape and quality of life and community, he moved the business to the Glenkens. Michael chose Forrest Estate, Dalry, having worked out early on that to make the whole production process as environmentally low-impact as possible, he needed to be based in an area where his raw materials were plentiful. “The logs that I use are all harvested locally,” Michael says. Michael constructs the buildings out of unseasoned soft wood logs, treated with a naturally found fireretardant, anti-fungal, and antiinsecticidal product which he blends with natural oils, waxes and natural pigments for the treatment, making them robust, resilient and longlasting. “My Mother-in-law lives in a 180 year old log cabin in Russia. Properly maintained they can last forever,” Michael tells us. of its innate strength and secondly, because the artificial heat pushes the flame retardant salts found within the wood to the surface where they dissipate into the atmosphere. The other advantage that logs have over milled timber is that the logs retain the heart of the wood; should a crack occur, it will be prevented from splitting all the way through so the strength of round logs is far greater than that of milled timber. Michael sees log cabins as bespoke, affordable, quality housing. Each log building is a unique construction, designed and built to meet the needs of the client, climate and local landscape. In addition, should the client ever wish to relocate, the cabins can be disassembled and moved to a new location. It is a warm and rustic material that is both enjoyable to look at as well as to live in, is low maintenance, and blends into the natural landscape. Log cabins are an inherently energyefficient concept; the internal structure of soft wood logs contains To find out more, get in touch with air pockets in the cells which makes Michael on 07880 621 103 or timber a poor conductor of heat, rasputinscotland@aol.com. ensuring that heat is kept inside the Sara McNeill building - so local soft wood trees are perfect as they grow faster than their Scandinavian counterparts and therefore The Tsarina Imperial Dacha have larger cell Company is the only UK company structures. local log homes Michael says: “Log cabins have far superior thermal properties to a brick or timberframed house.” The cabins are built using unseasoned green wood firstly, because kiln dried timber loses over 40% Abbas Rest Fundraising Success On Saturday 6 October, a very successful coffee morning was held in Dalry in aid of Abbas Rest Orphans in Malawi. We would like to thank everyone; a wonderful total of £705.89 was raised. Our thanks also go out to all the people who staffed the stalls, provided transport, waited on the tables, and helped in the kitchen, as without your help this would not have been possible. Barbara Colbenson creating log cabins from locally sourced timber. A variety of bespoke log homes are available, using Glenkens wood. These structures are made to last, and are not the usual imported kits sold by other companies. Other log structures are also available such as stables, summer houses, log bridges, hot tubs, saunas, picnic benches, fishing/hiking shelters, bothies and children’s playhouses. Call managing director Michael Dutton to arrange a visit to their yard at Forrest Estate and learn about an energy efficient, low impact, more natural way of living. Call 07880 621 103 (anytime), 01292 551 840 (evening) or email rasputinscotland@aol.com. Glenkens Gazette page 6 Halloween Excitement in the Glenkens There was a great The annual Halloween party for children in the turn-out full of fun and Glenkens took place at Dalry Town Hall. Hanging skeletons in the trees by the entrance, spookily lit by fright on Wednesday 31 lights, put revellers in the right mood before entering the October for the CatStrand coloured hall through a maze of cobwebs and howling ghouls. Ghoulish Gathering and Friends of Dalry School (FoDS) had decorated the hall and organised the party, helped by donations from Dalry and New Mystery Parade. Winners of the Glenkens halloween party Fancy Dress Competition: Photo © Robbie Wilson. Galloway Community Councils. Costumes were colourful and very The evening started with face inventive, with many being handmade. Judge for the Fancy Dress painting followed by a lantern Competition, Rhoda Rugg, said: “It was very difficult to choose lit procession through New Galloway and ended up back at the winners as all the entrants looked suitably scary and horrible”. This year had the largest number of carved pumpkins, all of which CatStrand for a halloween disco, complete with games and floating were skilfully created and made a spectacular display. Music and games were followed by refreshments and each child was given a Chinese lanterns. ‘goody-bag’ on departure. Well done to the CatStrand Youth Players who entertained everyone with a promenade performance of Tam o’ Shanter as the lantern parade made its way around the streets of New Galloway, starting at the Cross Keys and ending at the bridge where Tam was chased out of the village by the procession! Many thanks to everyone who showed up in support of the event; see you next year for an equally successful evening. 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 www.aileenmcleod.org regularly for surgery, constituency and parliamentary updates 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 7 is Working With Children “There childcare in Castle - the Job for You? Douglas but it There is a shortage of registered childcare in the Glenkens. With no registered childminders in New Galloway, Dalry, Ballmaclellan, Carsphairn, or any of the surrounding villages, parents are struggling to find quality childcare in the local community. The Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA) could help you start your own childcare business; you could embark on a rewarding career and help support your community too. Some comments from local parents are: “I have a oneyear-old and a three-yearold and have had problems finding childcare as I work. There do seem to be a lot of young children in the area, and there don’t seem to be any childminders.” is a half hour journey each way.” Why should I become a childminder? Childminders are professional childcare workers who provide a high-quality childcare service from their own homes and, like nurseries, are registered and inspected by the Care Inspectorate. Childminding provides you with the opportunity to: 1. Earn money as your own boss while still being there for your own family. 2. Run your own business from home. 3. Provide a valuable service in your community. 4. Contribute to children’s development and learning. 5. Develop new skills and qualifications. Why would parents choose a childminder? Childminders offer a flexible and unique service - unlike most nurseries, a childminding service can often extend both to evenings and weekends. Local childminding development officer Ann Hadland is keen to meet anyone interested in childminding; contact Ann on 01581 300 659 or email ann.hadland@childminding.org. Malawi Cycle Update Ian Knox, from Dalry, says: “The total money raised so far for EMMs charity is £3,510. This goes towards healthcare projects in Malawi. “A fundraising cycle run on 19 September around Loch Ken raised £678, so thank you everyone who took part.” To donate towards Ian’s fundraising cycle across Malawi in May 2013, visit: https://mydonate.bt.com/ fundraisers/ianknox1 Glenkens Gazette page 8 EXCITING TIMES AHEAD FOR OUR Douglas. COMMUNITY BUS Castle GTI have recently been asked by The last 10 years have seen significant changes to the Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) in both the number of people who make use of the minibuses and how GTI is funded. We now own two minibuses, carried over 4,000 passengers last year, and we have our own qualified driving assessor; and the demands on our services continue to grow. The biggest challenge we face is to adapt to a 60% drop in Council funding; to offset this loss GTI now do more work for the Council such as a regular morning and afternoon school run, providing transport for the Spring Fling, and of course the Wednesday evening service into the Council to consider helping with a project making better use of community transport for adult recreational centres, day centres, hospital visits, etc – this has been successfully tried in Wigtownshire and the Council are keen to extend this into the Stewartry. It is a great testament to the success of GTI that we have been asked to consider this, but the advantages and disadvantages will be closely looked into before any decision is made, bearing in mind our main function is to provide a service for the people in the Glenkens. I would like to thank all those who have supported GTI in any way over the last decade and hope you will continue to do so in the future. Have a very happy Christmas and a healthy New Year. Keith Cooper, GTI Administrator NOTE: The midweek service into Castle Douglas on a Wednesday evening will not New Galloway be operating on either Wednesday 26 December 2012 or Wednesday 2 January 2013. FORTHCOMING TRIPS Sat 15 Dec, Ayr Xmas shopping. Friday 28 December, Carlisle - New Year sales. Thurs 3 Jan, Ayr - National Hunt Renowned Ken Bridge Sunday Racing. THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL Pre-Christmas meals served from 1st to 22nd December MEALS SERVED 12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm Lunch Carvery, ‘The Best in the West’, now in its 8th year. bed & breakfast en suite accommodation 01644 420 211 mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk ww.kenbridgehotel.co.uk HIGH MARKS FOR GTI In the August/September issue of the Gazette, questionnaires were enclosed asking your opinion of the Glenkens Transport Initiative’s (GTI) first 10 years of service. These have now been analysed and I am pleased to say most of you are very happy with our performance. 85% of the surveys received were from people who had used GTI, and comments from the small number who made more general points regarding transport issues in the area will be passed onto D&G Council. The question concerning a safe and comfortable journey received top marks from 59% of you, whilst the other 41% gave good marks but made comments about the comfort aspect, a point we shall certainly bear in mind. A few suggestions were made about the booking system, but 68% were happy. It is apparent that the majority of users are satisfied with our achievements over the last 10 years, with 86% giving top marks in this field and the remaining 14% giving 4 out of the 5 marks possible marks. 90% of you indicated you would be prepared to pay more for GTI trips, should it be necessary, and as a result of the questionnaire we should have at least one new driver, and possibly a couple of new committee members, which is great news. A draw was made from all completed questionnaires and the winners were as follows; Bottle of Bucks Fizz – Ann McLaughlin, Pair of Tickets for GTI Trips – Jacqui Excell, Tourist Map of Dumfries & Galloway – George Colbenson. Thank you to all those who took time to complete the questionaire – your comments will be considered and we hope you continue to support GTI. Glenkens Walkers The Glenkens Walking Group wish to say a special thank you to all those who supported the Soup & Sweet event, the tombola and the collection boxes, as well as those who donated prizes and cash. We raised a total of £556.35 for the Yorkhill Children’s Foundation. Well done everyone! Glenkens Gazette page 9 We conclude our interviews with councillors for the Glenkens with Brian Collins (Scottish National Party). What are your links to the Glenkens? I originally came from East Kilbride. Back then it was still a village and who I didn’t know by name, I knew by sight. East Kilbride began to change, and my wife and I wanted the children to have the rural idyll to grow up in, so we moved here. What skills do you believe that you bring to your job as councillor? The ability to listen, to communicate, and imagination; and by the latter I mean thinking outside the box. What do you believe to be the important issues facing the Glenkens at present and how do you feel that they should be tackled? There are quite a few challenges facing not only the Glenkens, but D&G as a whole; they range from youth unemployment, to transport, to the new Welfare Rights Bills that are coming out of Westminster. What do you believe are the important issues facing councillors today and how do you feel these should be faced? One of the most significant issues that I feel that we have to deal with here is the negative feelings and attitudes towards our Council. I hope this relationship can change going forward as I feel that a positive attitude will translate in to a better understanding of the needs of communities throughout Dumfries and Galloway, making in turn a more beneficial and productive relationship. Another topic that comes to mind is the debate over whether party politics and connections are useful in local politics. My view is that party connections prove very useful. It gives the region access to more information and resources that cannot but add to the quality of decisions and action taken on a local level. What does your role as Deputy of Dumfries and Galloway Council entail? The Deputy of D&G Council acts as the civic head of the council. I am an ambassador that represents the council in recognising individual and collective actions of those who live and work within the region. What does your role as Vice-Chair on the Policy and Resources Committee entail? The Policy and Resources Committee decides Council policy and how each of the other Council departments and bodies will deal with the topics and problems put before them. It also decides what resources, in terms of funding and expertise to allocate to which departments and their issues. How would you like to see the Glenkens change over the next ten years? I believe that in my position as councillor that I am not here to be prescriptive about how I would like to see the Glenkens change in the future. My role is to act to progress and facilitate the community views and concerns, and to bring what resources I can to best achieve their goals. I believe that the current topics of concern within the community are the sustainability of the villages, limiting where possible the closure of shops and community facilities, and the retention of our young people. What issues do you plan to tackle during your term and how? It is the job of all Councillors to address all the issues facing both their communities and D&G as a whole; that said, the issues closest to my heart are those concerning our youth. The young people of Dumfries and Galloway face issues such as employment, transport and portrayal. I believe that continued nurturing and investment in our tertiary educational establishments will not only attract youth to our area and swell numbers, but will also provide a better educated populace, both professionally and vocationally. A second, but equally important issue that faces our young people today is the negative attitude in which they are regarded. I see this attitude reflected throughout the region and, for example, in the local media. What changes would you like to see to farming over the next ten years and what local and national policies would you like to see introduced to enable this? I think that the Scottish Minister, Richard Lockhead, has some very imaginative and innovative ideas with regard to farming and the countryside. Internationally there is great cache given to the products labelled ‘Made in Scotland’, and he has some great ideas on how to develop the brand, and add value. The council has assigned £50 million for improvements to rail and road networks. How would you like to see this realised in the Glenkens? Ideally I would like to see the A713 given more importance. It is very much seen as a route to exit D&G, but I would like to see some consideration given to it becoming a primary route in to the Galloway Forest Park and the Biosphere, enabling in turn the Glenkens to be seen and developed as the gateway. Do you feel that the relaxation of planning in the form of the ‘Smallholding Policy’ in the upper Glenkens has achieved its aim? I certainly think that it has succeeded in bringing more people, including families to live in the area, and that in itself is positive. I think that with every new project it has to be regularly evaluated to ensure that it is addressing the issues that it was engineered to. I would also add that as well as addressing the needs and aspirations of the local communities, one eye needs to be cast to the market in its current state. Brian Collins available by appointment - call 01644 420 849 or email brian.collins@dumgal.gov.uk by Sara McNeill 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 10 CatStrand Highlights Come down to the CatStrand and enjoy some warming festive cheer over the cold winter months. The young Highland five-piece Breabach bring their fresh dynamic blend of traditional and modern to the CatStrand on Wednesday 28 November, and we can’t wait to see what these Radio 2 Folk Award winners have in store. Channel 4’s Mark Dolan - comedian, presenter, and documentary maker - will be providing us with the comedy injection needed at this time of year. Star of documentary series ‘Balls of Steel’ and ‘The Worlds... and Me’, Mark Dolan shares his views on everything from politics to married life. A real highlight on Friday 30 November, and be sure to book your pre-event dinner. Daimh and special guest singer Kathleen MacInnes will perform songs connected with Christmas, new year and midwinter on Thursday 20 December. These exceptionally talented musicians thrill with their close-knit instrumental style and haunt you with their ballads. The winter programme would not be complete without our CatStrand Christmas Panto on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 December; going by last year’s performance, there will be plenty of hilarity. Mark Dolan Pick up a programme for full listings, or to book tickets call 01644 420 374 or visit www.catstrand.com The CatStrand Needs YOU! Following on from the successful birthday celebrations, it has been decided to reinvigorate the Friends of the CatStrand. The financial support from the Friends over the years has been extremely valuable, but it was agreed that the arrangements had lost some impetus and needed to be reviewed. The CatStrand has become recognised as a first rate national arts performance venue and it is a vibrant hub and focal point for the local community. As it considers the challenges for the future in these times of recession, it recognises that it is as financially vulnerable as any other arts organisation and social enterprise in the country. It, too, has fallen victim to public sector spending cuts, reduced budgets and lack of core funding. If it is to continue its commitment of bringing quality arts and community events to this remote rural area of Scotland, it needs to find extra financial subsidy. A small group have been looking at the current arrangements to see how they can provide additional support to the CatStrand. The plan is to launch a new Friends and Patrons of the CatStrand scheme during the Christmas shopping day at the CatStrand on 24 November. There will be an annual cost for joining, and the new arrangements will come into effect on 1 January 2013. All current Friends will receive information directly about how it affects them, and in particular the additional benefits available from next year. So how can you help? If you have not already done so, you can sign up as a Friend or Patron and support the delivery of successful arts and community projects to the people of the Glenkens and its welcomed visitors. In return for your support, you will be invited to events such as exhibition launches and other events organised exclusively for Friends and Patrons. As a token of the CatStrand’s and the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust’s (GCAT) appreciation, a discount for any shop purchases will also be available. More importantly, being a Friend will not only provide a wide range of benefits and promotions, but will also give a true sense of involvement in the CatStrand’s future success. Full information will be available from 24 November from the CatStrand and on www.catstrand.com - in the meantime, if you have any comments please email friends@catstrand.com or call 01644 420374. The Glenkens Trust Concerned that D&G Council proposals would dissipate any community benefit monies from windfarm developments across the region and away from the Glenkens, The Glenkens Business Association (GBA) has taken the initiative to set up The Glenkens Trust. Registered as a Scottish Charity Incorporated Organisation, as a completely independent body, the Trust can receive and dispense benefit monies. community councils, businesses, community organisations and individuals all have the opportunity to become members of this Trust. Please contact GBA chair Ros Hill for further information on 01644 420 632. Glenkens Gazette page 11 Glenkens Gazette page 12 Glenkens Gazette page 13 Glenkens Gazette page 14 Glenkens Gazette page 15 Clatteringshaws Trip ZOMBIES RAISE On Monday 24 September P3/4 from Dalry School and P1-4 from Kells Primary School spent a damp but enjoyable day at Clatteringshaws as part of their Scotland topic and as well as a ‘Forest Schools’ activity. Both classes have spent time this term looking at the Scottish Wars of Independence and this was their opportunity to touch a piece of history as they viewed Bruce’s Stone, a spot that King Robert the Bruce is reported to have visited himself in 1307.Close to the stone is a reconstruction of an Iron Age roundhouse which the children enjoyed looking around, though I don’t think they would trade in their own house for one! After this the children were given time to investigate the visitor centre and look around the Animal Zone. The afternoon was spent in the surrounding woodland as the children investigated the use of natural materials to build dens among the trees. The children relished the opportunity to see this piece of local history and to spend the day in the great outdoors and would happily do it again, come rain or shine! CASH FOR GOLF On Friday 9 November at the CatStrand a unique event took place...the showing of the film Zombie Flesh Eaters! This classic 1979 horror is an infamous cult hit of the genre, and the showing coincided with the national re-release on dvd blue ray of the film. Ian McCulloch, the star of the film and a member of New Galloway Golf Club, presented the evening. The event raised over £200 for Club funds. Thanks go to the staff of the CatStrand for their considerable help and assistance in staging this event. New Galloway is a very friendly club and members and visitors alike will get a warm welcome. This coming season, the Golf Club will be linking up with the CatStrand who can provide refreshments and golfing accessories. Anyone who wants more information or is keen to join the Club should contact the Club secretary on 01644 420 737. For further information visit www.nggc.co.uk People Who Help in Our Community Children Meet Alex P1/2 from Dalry School and P1 from Carsphairn Primary School have been finding out about the People Who Help in Our Community this term. Firstly, they visited the Glenkens Medical Practice in New Galloway where they found out about all of the different jobs and explored the different areas that they use in the surgery. They then walked to the fire station, where they were told about all of the different types of emergencies that the fire team are asked to help with. It was a great afternoon which brought the learning that has been taking place in the classroom to life. Children visiting the Glenkens Medical Practice. Fergusson MSP Upper primary pupils from Dalry and Kells invited Mr Alex Fergusson MSP to attend a Question and Answer Session at Dalry School. This was part of their topic work last term on the ‘Glenkens Commons’. The pupils asked him a variety of questions about his job as an MSP as well as current local and national issues. Macmillan Coffee Morning Primary 7 pupils from Kells hosted the annual Macmillan Coffee Morning at the Cross Keys Hotel recently. The pupils have raised an amazing £1007.49 so far with money still to come in. The pupils would like to thank the New Galloway community for supporting the event. A big thank you to Miss O’Hare for allowing the pupils to use the Cross Keys Hotel for the coffee morning. Thank you also to parents and family members who attended, worked at, and donated baking and raffle prizes to the Macmillan Coffee Morning. Glenkens Gazette page 16 Glenkens Community Council Update Balmaclellan: The newly elected office bearers are Neil Cawthorne (Chair), Lee Cawthorne (Secretary), Ryan Grierson (Vice Chair) and Alan Rumble (Treasurer). CC members are June Hay, Jim Kirkpatrick, Robin Jardine, Sandra Dempster and Dave Paterson. The Senior Citizens Christmas Lunch will be on Tuesday 18 Dec, and there will be a Children’s Christmas Party on Saturday 15 December. Carsphairn: The newly elected office bearers are: Andrew Metcalf (Chair), Tony Challis (Secretary), Liz Holmes (Vice Chair) and Anne Rutherford (Treasurer). CC members are Sylvia Sinclair, Matt Hickman and Maggie Phillips. Dalry: The newly elected office bearers are Andi Holmes (Chair), Andrew Mellor (Vice Chair), Moira Jones (Secretary) and Gerald Bell (Treasurer). CC members are: Maggi Kay, Nicolette Wise, Pat Woodley and Andrew Belinski and Jim Reid. Last year Dalry Community Council (CC) bought the red heritage phone box by Bone’s Garage for re-use by the community. We have yet to decide exactly what to do with it; a tourist information point has been suggested, and to house a defibrillator for first responders use is another idea. The CC welcome any suggestions from the residents of Dalry (email the Gazette with ideas). Dalry CC is involved in a new renewable energy project - see article on p17. New Galloway & Kells: The newly elected office bearers are Brian Edgar (Chairman), James McKenna (Vice Chair), Chris Newman (Secretary) and John McGaw (Treasurer). CC Members are Julia Brown, Andrew Frew, Phillip Holmes, Vic McIntosh, Lyndy Renwick, George Scott, John Thom and Margaret Watson. Meetings are held on the second Monday each month and are open to the public. If you have any issues that you would like to raise, please come along or raise the matter with any Community Councillor. The annual Christmas Lunch for all senior citizens of Kells parish will be held on Saturday 15 December at 12.30pm; venue to be confirmed. Anyone wishing to go should add their name to the lists available in the Post Office, Hopkins Shop, the CatStrand, Mossdale Shop and the Glenkens Hair Studio. See p23 for details of all Glenkens CC meeting days and times. ALEX FERGUSSON MSP The Cross Keys Hotel New Galloway 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 We have 10 cosy en-suite bedrooms with TV/ DVD/Radio and tea and coffee making facilities, a traditional bar with a good selection of Real Ales, Malts and a welcoming log fire and an excellent restaurant specialising in fresh, local produce. We have wi-fi access, drying facilities, secure bike storage, off road parking for motorbikes, firearms safe... and lots of local knowledge! We welcome well-behaved and ‘dog friendly’ dogs. Traditional Hospitality at its Very Best Every Monday, 7.15pm, Texas Hold ‘em Poker Every Wednesday, 8.30pm, fundraising quiz Every Friday, Fish Friday, fish meal for £8.95 Tel: 01644 420 494 Email: enquiries@thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk www.thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 17 CATSTRAND CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME Community The CatStrand Youth Players are looking forward Renewable Energy Scheme to presenting their second pantomime on Dumfries & Galloway Council is the first local authority in Scotland to be working with Community Energy Scotland to take part in this Intelligent Energy Europe project. Following interest from the Glenkens Business Association (GBA), Dalry Community Council and Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING), the Glenkens has been selected to take part. It is hoped that all Glenkens Community Councils will be involved. Thursday 6 and Friday 7 December, at 7.30pm in the CatStrand. This year’s production is Old Mother Hubbard by Paul Reakes - perhaps not one of the best known pantomime stories, but it promises to be just as funny and enjoyable as Cinderella proved to be last year. Old Mother Hubbard, her cupboard bare of course, is granted a wish by the Good Fairy and despite the more obvious suggestions of her son Hughie and daughter Polly, she chooses to be re-united with her long lost brother Ossie, as she knows that he will be able to help her. Many exciting and entertaining adventures ensue, and of course everyone lives happily ever after in the end, and Old Mother Hubbard’s cupboard is never bare again. The Youth Players hope that you will be able to join them on their Wild West adventure! Photo of the Issue Participating communities will benefit from advice and guidance to investigate and take forward sustainable energy projects over a three year period. These could include schemes using biomass, micro hydroelectric, solar photovoltaic, solar thermal, ground/air source and wind. The next stage for the Glenkens is having a steering group formed by a representative from each Community Council to look into what projects the community would like to see developed and how they can be funded from sustainable energy schemes. With the many groups now involved with different aspects of sustainable energy development and possible benefits to the community, it is proposed that public meetings are held in the New Year (for further information contact Ros Hill on 01644 420 632). Ros Hill 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 This issue’s winner is Paul Goodwin with a striking shot of wild goats on Corserine. Paul wins a meal for two at the Thistle Inn in Crossmichael. Next issue’s prize will be a meal for two at the Ken Bridge Hotel (up to the value of £30), so send in your photos! Glenkens Gazette page 18 AGNES COOKS… MINCEMEAT A jar of mincemeat is not just for Christmas... Halfway through November I begin to think about my Christmas trio; cake, pudding (for the only member of my family that likes it) and mincemeat. The cake, if I am being honest, has become one of those traditions that is made but rarely finished; visitors will nearly always have a hot mince pie in preference to Christmas cake and so in the end the last of it is usually fed to the birds in January. You will have guessed by my tone that the pudding is also made out of a sense of tradition, but at least it is always eaten... Mincemeat, however, I love to make because it is very easy, involves almost no cooking, keeps well and is never wasted as there are plenty of ways of using it up; it is lovely stuffed into a cored cooking apple with some pieces of marzipan and baked; a few spoonfuls can be added to fruit before baking a crumble, made into muffins, biscuits, even a delicious stuffing for homemade doughnuts, and as a lighter pudding for Christmas it adds a seasonal flavour to homemade ice cream. One of the joys of making your own mincemeat is that you can add or take away ingredients and make it your own. For example, I dislike chopped peel and brandy but love cranberries and Amaretto. You can make it very orangey by adding marmalade and Grand Marnier. Traditional recipes use suet, which has become rather unfashionable, but I think its inclusion is important as mincemeat made without it has a less unctuous texture, more like fruit chutney. You can substitute vegetable suet for the beef variety if you like though. The sugar and alcohol help with preservation, but you can reduce the quantities of these and even substitute fruit juice for the alcohol. The recipe below will make just over 2kg of mincemeat: Two medium cooking apples (cored and chopped but not peeled) 250g raisins 250g sultanas 250g currants 250g mixed peel or mixture of cranberries/ chopped apricots / cherries) 50g roughly chopped blanched almonds 250g shredded suet 250g soft brown sugar Grated zest and juice of 2 lemons 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 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.  01556 502263  VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS Grated zest and juice of 2 oranges 2 teaspoons of mixed spice 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1⁄2 freshly grated nutmeg 200ml of Brandy/Grand Marnier/ Cointreau/Amaretto... Put all of the ingredients (except the alcohol) into a large pan and mix thoroughly. Cover and leave overnight. The next day (still covered) put into a pre-heated oven, set at 120°C/gas mark 1⁄4, for about three hours. When removed from the oven the suet will have melted and risen to the surface. As the mincemeat cools, stir it now and again. When cold, stir in the alcohol and put into sterilised jars. Kept in a cool place, it will keep for about a year. 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. Festive Period Opening Hours: Thurs 20 Dec: 9am–6pm, Fri 21 Dec: 9am–5pm Mon 24 Dec: 9am–1pm Thurs 27 Dec: 9am–6pm, Fri 28 Dec: 9am–5pm Thurs 3 Jan: 9am–6pm Fri 4 Jan: 9am–5pm Call to book: 01644 420 616 FHB Fencing Dalry Domestic and Agricultural Fencing 01644 430 495 (Peter) or 07767 795 498 (Jonathan) Glenkens Gazette page 19 Spalding Rounds Up Spalding Bowling Club rounded off their centenary year with their annual social and prizegiving at the Clachan Inn. 2012 prize winners. This year the Gents Champion was Matt Taylor in his first year of bowling here at Spalding, with the runnerup being Eric Broadhurst. The Ladies’ Champion was Eliz Peacock with Mabel Young being the runner up. ����������������������������������������������������� • Pensions • Savings • Investments • Retirement Options • Inheritance Tax Planning • Life Assurance • Income & Critical Illness Protection • Mortgages • Home Insurance Free Confidential Initial Consultation are now Clachan Fair 2013 Plans well under way for next year’s Fair, and the committee could do with some additional help. There are all sorts of jobs which need doing beforehand and during the week, and new ideas are welcome, so please don’t be shy in coming forward! If you would be willing to offer your services in any way, call Sally Hooker on 01644 430 120 or see anyone on the committe. Tel: 01671 403080 Fax:- 01671 402549 Email: brian.edgar@marrfinancial.co.uk Web: www.marrfinancial.co.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 20 It All Started in Balmaclellan We have all seen cairns and standing stones, some of which will mark battles or lives lost or even great deeds; but when did the erection of war memorials begin? You would be forgiven for supposing that war memorials were first erected following the First World War, or even from the Boer War some years before that. The truth is that the erection of civic war memorials in Scotland began in 1857 at Balmaclellan. The Dumfries & Galloway Standard of Wednesday 17 May 1857 reported: ‘In memory of the departed brave...a monument is being erected in Balmaclellan burial-ground, in memory of five young men, natives of, or lately residing in the parish, who were cut down in battle, or died of disease in the Crimea.’ Research in 2007 by members of the Scottish Military Research Group confirmed that this is the only Crimean Civic War Memorial in Scotland, and as well as being unique, is also the oldest civic war memorial in Scotland. The red sandstone pillar stands around six feet high and is in Balmaclellan churchyard at the opposite end of the church to the entrance. It has carvings on its four sides of a cannon, a rifle, crossed sword and musket GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL  01644 420234  with bayonet and lighter stick with grapeshot. The men listed on the memorial are: Lance Corporal James McMichael, Lance Corporal Joseph Gordon, Thomas McRobert, James Gibson and William Barr. Balmaclellan lost another son at Crimea; the prominent grave beside the entrance to the church records the death of Lieutenant John Henry Upton Spalding, who also has a stained glass window memorial in St Margaret’s Episcopal church in New Galloway. The memorial featured in Adam Brown’s article in the December 2008 issue of The Scottish Genealogist: The Quarterly Journal of the Scottish Genealogy Society and an application to Historic Scotland by Paul Goodwin, supported by the Reverend Doctor David Bartholomew, resulted in the church and churchyard at Balmaclellan being listed grade B (of national importance) in September 2009 and specific mention is made in the listing of the Crimean Memorial. Jane Brayshaw recently uncovered a poem about the memorial in the papers of the Balmaclellan Community Council, but alas the author is not given. The last two verses are: Of wounds, and toil, and cold they died, There too, brave Spalding won, A glorious name – like hero died, Beside his conquering gun. He and those five sleep far from Holme, And Garple’s wooded glen, Their worth shall e’er remembered be, By those, who live by Ken. If anyone has any information about the memorial, the men listed or the authorship of the poem, please contact Paul Goodwin on 07973 174 342. Members of the Scottish Military Research Group are in the process of writing a short book about the memorial. Paul Goodwin Glenkens Business Association (GBA) To represent businesses in the area, Ros Hill as GBA Chairman has been invited to take part in the Community Liaison Group being set up by Orbit Communications on behalf of Burcote Wind as part of their consultation process. Ros would like to be in touch with all businesses, whether or not members of the GBA. If you would like to know more, or if you have any ideas, please email Ros at ros.hill@rathanhouse.co.uk It is important to note that neither the GBA nor the Glenkens Trust (see p16) have taken a view on whether or not any commercial windfarms should be established. Cllr Finlay Carson Castle Douglas & Glenkens for an appointment Tel: 07825 633 185 or email: finlay@finlaycarson.co.uk www.finlaycarson.co.uk 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 jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 21 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN Arctic Wanderings A White Christmas is defined as one when snow falls on Christmas Day. England experienced only seven of them during the twentieth century. In our part of the world we had roughly a 35% chance of a White Christmas between 1950 and 2006; they were much more common between the 1580s and the 1850s when ponds, lochs and rivers regularly froze to provide sport for community curling clubs. So popular was the ‘roaring game’ that the curling potential of Canada was advertised in the nineteenth century as a potential lure for Scottish immigrants. Since snow is not that common in Galloway, perhaps we may view it vicariously, through the eyes of two Glenkens residents who both ventured into the Arctic. The first, Alexander Trotter, was a fourth generation medical doctor. He spent most of his working life in Northumberland, but in later years bought Dalshangan as a holiday and retirement home where he wrote his excellent East Galloway Sketches (1901). In 1856, at the age of 21, he served as surgeon on the Enterprise, a whaling ship sailing out of Fraserburgh. By the end of March the ship was beset in ice off Jan Mayen Island. He took a turn in the Crow’s Nest, hunted seals, struggled with seasickness and experienced some ferocious stormy weather, and said: “There is decidedly a beauty in a storm, as well as in a calm untroubled sea, that beauty being mixed with grandeur and sublimity”. His conclusion was that “on the whole I may say I have just liked this voyage middling; sometimes, as in a storm, it was not very pleasant, whereas at other times, in a calm, I felt that I liked the sea finely. The terrible oaths and curses I got used to and as yet I must say that the voyage has done me a great deal of good”. The second Arctic venturer from the Glenkens is Captain Alexander Clark-Kennedy of the Coldstream Guards. When he died, at the early age of 43, he was buried in a tomb which he had commissioned on the Craig above his ancestral home of Knockgray, Carsphairn. A keen ornithologist, like many of his contemporaries he saw no conflict in shooting birds for sport. I own a copy of his epic poem, Robert the Bruce, bound in calfskin. In 1878 he published ‘To The Arctic Regions and Back in Six Weeks Being a Summer Tour to Lapland and Norway with Notes on Sport and Natural History’ which was designed to remind British travellers of the proximity of the European Arctic. He was Mystery Animal? This photograph was taken in April 2011 by Glenkens resident Emma Gibson, on the High Road between Dalry and Carsphairn, on the other side of the Deugh by the bad corners near the Marbrack road end. She wonders whether anyone else saw it, and if you have any ideas what it may be...? A seal, a bird... or just a bit of white plastic? Let us know if you have any suggestions! correct; Galloway, Dumfries and the Borders lie rather neatly along the 55th parallel. The Arctic Circle is only some eleven degrees to the north. Clark-Kennedy and his wife set sail from Hull. On crossing the Circle, no-one on deck spoke and “the extreme stillness and solitude was very striking and the effect solemn”. He fished whenever practicable and purchased Sami spoons, walrus tusks and ten pairs of reindeer antlers. Ultimately he found endless daylight “rather monotonous”, but he also approvingly quoted a writer who observed that Arctic views were so breathtaking that “it seemed culpable to go to bed”. It is worth noting that although reindeer are conspicuous in his text, there is no mention of Santa Claus or Christmas. All of that legendary accretion lay in the future. In 1878 the kids of Glenkens and elsewhere in the region still attended school on Christmas Day. Admittedly they would often party, play games and present the teacher with a gift, but the main lesson of the day was that learning had priority over frivolity. Season’s Greetings! Ted Cowan Glenkens Gazette page 22 OCTOBER & NOVEMBER ‘Some time after placing the ad I received a number of positive responses, showing that people do remember what they see in the Gazette, even if they don’t respond immediately!’ Helen NOVEMBER Wed 28, Breabach, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 30, Mark Dolan, 7.30pm, CatStrand DECEMBER Sat 1, Craft Fair, 10am-4pm, Dalry Town Hall Wed 5, deadline for local grants through Glenkens Community Shop, see p4 Wed 5, Open Stage, 7pm, CatStrand Thurs 6 & Fri 7, CatStrand Panto, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 15, Bus Trip; Ayr - Christmas shopping, see p8 Thurs 20, Dàimh ho ho ho; rogheallaidh, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 28, Film: Mary Poppins, 4.30pm, CatStrand Fri 28, Bus Trip; Carlisle - New Year sales, see p8 JANUARY Thurs 3, Bus Trip; Ayr - National Hunt Racing, see p8 Thurs 17, Carsphairn Burns Supper, 7.30pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn, see ad below Sat 19, McGill Duncan Gallery Winter Exhibition, see back page Thurs 24, Film: Anna Karenina, 7.30pm, CatStrand FEBRUARY FESTIVE PERIOD BUS CHANGES: The midweek GTI service (see below) into Castle Douglas on a Wednesday evening will not be operating on either Wednesday 26 December or Wednesday 2 January. CARSPHAIRN BURNS SUPPER Thurs 17th January, 7.30pm Speakers to Include: Graham Bell (Immortal Memory), Andrew Dunlop (Toast to the Lassies) Chairman Robert McTurk Tickets £10 Phone Jean Gibbon on 01644 460 244 Sat 9, CatStrand Burns Supper, 7.30pm. CatStrand * please note amended date * Sat 9, Photography; The Next Step, see p3 Tue 12, Balmaclellan & Kells Guild 16th Annual Pancake Lunch, 12noon-2pm, New Galloway Town Hall Fri 15, Valentine’s Disco (for Glenkens primary children), Dalry School, organised by Friends of Dalry School (FoDS) Fri 22, Race Night, fundraising for FoDS, location to be confirmed 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. Glenkens Gazette page 23 ...GLENKENS DIARY REGULAR EVENTS: CatStrand (New Galloway): Exercise to Music: Mon, 1011am Children’s Dance Class: Mon during term time, 3.45-4.45pm 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 Zumbatomic, last Sat each month,10-10.45am Catstrand Youth Players: Sun during term time, 2pm Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, last Sun of the month, 2-4pm, not on in December Glenkens Community Centre (Dalry): Contact: Kath 430 281 Glenkens Children’s Club: Mon & Fri, 9.15-11.45am Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm & 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 Thursday Craft Group: Thurs, 2-4pm Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm Guides: Tue during term-time, 6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281 Various Locations: Texas Hold ‘em Poker, Mon, 7.15pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.45-11.15am, New Galloway Town Hall Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Dog Training: Tue & Wed, 7pm, Glenkens Community Councils Balmaclellan Community Council Meetings: Last Monday each month, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall. Carsphairn Community Council Meetings: Last Monday each month, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn. Dalry Community Council Meetings: 1st Monday each month, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. New Galloway & Kells Community Council Meetings: 2nd Monday each month, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall. Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library. CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon: 1st Carsphairn: 10.30am: 1st,2nd,3rd,4th,5th Dalry: 12noon: 1st,2nd(Jan),3rd,4th Kells: 10.30am: 2nd,3rd,4th Special Services/Events: Sun 9 Dec, 10.30am, United Family Service, Kells Church. Sun 9 Dec, 6.30pm, Carols by Candlelight in Dalry Church. Wed 12 Dec, 10am, Guild Christmas Coffee Morning, New Galloway Town Hall. Sat 22 Dec, 5pm, Carsphairn Church Community Christmas Service & Children’s Party. Mon 24 Dec, 11.30pm, Watchnight Service, Kells Church. Tue 25,10.30am, Christmas Day Family Service, Dalry Church. Sun 30 Dec,10.30am, United Service with Choir, Carsphairn 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 Dalry Town Hall. Wed 10 Oct last session until Tue 8 Jan. Contact: Eric 460 670 Wednesday Quiz Night, Wed, 8.30pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway 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 Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Folk Music Session: 1st Sat each month, 8pm, The Clachan Inn, Dalry Dalry Library (Tel: 430 234) Opening Times: 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 please phone. ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 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 Glenkens Gazette page 24 I have really strong childhood memories of Christmas at the McGill Duncan Gallery, long before my family owned it. I remember the gallery had dark hessian covered walls, dimly lit lamps and interesting antiques and furniture. At the crowded openings, everyone clustered to view the paintings while sipping mulled wine. I wasn’t drinking the wine, but I loved helping myself to one or two mint imperials from a bowl in a little wooden alcove... Things have changed at the gallery, and we have redecorated, but the little wooden alcove is still there and it is now one of my favourite places for displaying ceramics. We have carried on with the tradition of making mulled wine, and this year we will be having a Saturday morning opening and an evening reception. The start of the Winter Exhibition is a very social event, with groups of friends meeting up every year to see the paintings. We always open the gallery in the week between Christmas and New Year, and serve ginger wine and chocolates every day. Surprisingly, after the Christmas rush, it is one of our busiest times for selling art. This year we will have a selection of older Galloway paintings alongside some of our favourite contemporary artists. In the five years that we have owned the gallery, we have built strong working relationships with some of the finest artists in Scotland. We feel very lucky that these Antony the gallery dog. Christmas at the Gallery artists now produce work specially for the gallery. This year Sandy Murphy RSW RGI PAI has painted us a truly wonderful painting of Crossmichael church (below). Both Jill and I are looking forward to this Winter Exhibition with much excitement. Zoe Blamire See ad below for details of the Winter Exhibition. ������������������������������������������������������ ����������������� ������������������ �������������������� �������������������������������� ������������������������� ����������������� ����������������� ��������������������������� 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: MON 7 JAN 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 73 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_073 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 https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/220/GlenkensGazette74.pdf c0cccfb2b014fc95da4d3b6802411864 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 74 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry February/March 2013 ISSUE 74 FREE LOCAL LIGHTING REVOLUTION TO CUT POLLUTION AND COSTS Our Glenkens villages are the first in the region outwith the Galloway Forest Park to receive revolutionary new street lights which will reduce light pollution and cut energy consumption. The orange glow from sodium street lighting which indicated the presence of villages from miles away will soon be a thing of the past. If you have been in Carsphairn or Dalry between dusk and dawn this winter, you will have noticed that the orange glow from sodium lighting that stained the night sky has already gone. In November Dumfries & Galloway Council started changing street lights in the two villages to light emitting diodes (LEDs). Street lights in Balmaclellan and New Galloway are scheduled to be changed by the end of March. For the Glenkens’ communities, located as they are on the edge of the Galloway Forest Park - the UK’s first Dark Sky Park (and now also part of the United Nations Biosphere) - the new lights bring particular benefits. The LED light footprint is more easily controlled, creating significantly less light pollution than traditional street lighting. The reduction of light pollution even in small villages will make a significant contribution in helping the area maintain it’s Dark Sky status. “Street lighting is the single largest contributor to the ‘sky glow’ effect across the UK, and indeed the world,” says Keith Muir, head of Tourism, Recreation & Communications for the Forestry Commission in the Galloway Forest District. Story by Sara McNeill continued on p2... Cathy Agnew Stands Down as GCAT Chairman Cathy Agnew, the founder Chairman and Director of Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT), has retired from the Board. Announcing her decision at the AGM of GCAT in December, she said that after 11 years at the helm she felt it was time for others to come forward. Story continued on p2... A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette Editors Note The next issue of the Gazette may be out a little late... I’m due to have a baby towards the end of February and, as the copy deadline for the April/May Gazette is Monday 4 March, we’re not yet sure when that issue will make it to the shelves. It may be that some kind and competent soul can take over for a while, or else that the issue is delayed a bit. Either way, please bear with us; the Gazette will reach you one way or another! Sarah page 2 GCAT story from front page... Anna Campbell and Ted Leeming have also stood down from the GCAT Board. Five new directors were elected at the AGM: Zoe Blamire, Brian Edgar, Richard Hermon, Helen Keron and Margaret Watson. They join Margaret Elphinstone, Andrew Mellor and Alan Smith on the Board, which will be appointing a new Chairman shortly. “I can’t believe it was back in 2001, at the time of the foot and mouth outbreak, that a group of us first got together with the idea of doing something with the old school,” says Cathy. “It’s extraordinary to think that it took six years, £1m, and a huge amount of dedication and commitment from so many people to transform that ruin into what the CatStrand is today. It was a real team effort and great fun. Now that the building has just celebrated its 5th Birthday, is firmly established in the community and is recognised as a first-rate regional arts venue, it’s time for a change all-round. It’s only fair that others should have the chance to play their part in helping shape the next five years.” Both GCAT and the CatStrand have won a number of prestigious awards since their inception, including ones from Arts & Business, LEADER and DG Life. Currently, the Glenkens is in the running to receive a Creative Scotland Creative Places Award which will be announced at the end of January in St Andrews. FIVE REMARKABLE YEARS Anna Campbell reflects on Cathy Agnew’s contribution to the CatStrand. The names of Cathy Agnew and the CatStrand are intrinsically linked. Now that the CatStrand has celebrated its 5th birthday and goes from strength to strength, Cathy has decided that it is the right time for her to leave the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) Board. In 2001, in the tragic aftermath of foot and mouth disease, Cathy, with others, grasped the opportunity to put the Glenkens at the forefront of community and cultural activities in Dumfries and Galloway. N ew Galloway Golf Club Founded Foun ded 1902 www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk v 01644 420737 v Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Cathy spearheaded the move to transform the old school in New Galloway into an imaginatively designed building fit for the requirements and demands of the 21st century. There were challenges and some opposition but, undaunted, Cathy, with her inspirational leadership and supported by her Board members and volunteers, overcame them. Her ambition was always to go for the best. Nothing less was good enough and her unswerving strategy motivated all those who believed in the goal but didn’t know if or when it could be achieved. During the five years it took to complete the building, seemingly insurmountable obstacles often appeared but Cathy, with her eyes firmly set on realising the dream, tackled every problem with drive and determination laced with incredible charm. Since the building was opened by the Princess Royal in 2007 it has been used as a centre for many diverse activities, and when one goes in nowadays there is a feeling that the CatStrand represents a vibrant community. Its many awards in the last five years acknowledge Cathy’s dream, which has come to fruition through her infectious enthusiasm, constant commitment and ability to help others have the confidence that the Glenkens could build and sustain such an ambitious project. Glenkens Gazette page 3 Street light story from front page... Keith Muir goes on to say: “It is why a huge percentage of families, when asked what colour their night is, reply by saying - orange. “Any change that starts to mitigate this sky glow is excellent news. However, Dumfries and Galloway Council have gone one step further by changing the lights to white LED down-lighters. This will drastically change the night sky environment, making the sky above us all far more easily observed and protecting the night-time environment for all of us and the wildlife that relies upon it. “It will also make the streets a safer place as white light adds to the security of people as you can identify colours and it reduces the claustrophobic feeling that orange lights can give. Overall, this is a fantastic move by the Council and clearly demonstrates that as a region the key public bodies are trying to make the most of our unique, selling points.” These new LEDs have less impact on the environment as they are less attractive to nocturnal insects, do not contain mercury or lead and create less carbon dioxide through using less energy. It is estimated that using LED lighting systems throughout the UK will reduce the carbon dioxide being released into our atmosphere by over 40,000 tons per year. The project, which has been funded through the D&G Central Efficiency Fund, has cost £27,000, supported by Scottish Government grants. It has been calculated that there is a 6.4 year payback period with the venture saving 300 tonnes of carbon dioxide over its 20-year lifespan. The project aims to save money by spending money since LEDs are significantly more cost-effective than current technology, having to be maintained and replaced less frequently, as well as being 40% more efficient to run. Locals seem to have a positive reaction to it, with Dalry resident, Angela, saying; “I really like the new lights - even from our upstairs windows we now have no light coming in from the street lamps except a little silver light, more like moonlight, which is nice.” Glenkens Gazette page 4 sponsored by EVERYTHING listed in the Glenkens Freecycle section is FREE - you just need to contact the owner and go and pick it up! If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch with Sarah on 07727 127 997 or email glenkens gazette@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. Various Furniture Brown velour sofa. 3-seater. Not great condition (should be fine with a throw over it). Contact: Sarah on 430 248 Wooden arm chair. Cushioned seat and back. Good condition. Contact: Sarah on 430 248 2 ceramic garden plant pots, Two 4-drawer filing cabinets. light blue, approx. 1 foot high. Contact: Diana on 07796 911 569 Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 Wooden table. Medium size, (preferably evenings). handmade solid wood table. 27 volumes of the annual Very heavy. Contact: Sarah on Galloway Cattle Society 430 248 Herdbook. Earliest dated 1934 Washing machine, AEG, working and latest 1976. Alan on 07769 except for a fault on spin; may 680 938 be fixable but haven’t tried as don’t need the machine; inherited it with the house. Contact: 07727 127 997 Small brass kindling/log box. 14’’ w x Supplying sand and gravel for all 12’’ d x12’’ h. your farming needs, as well as Contact: Fiona on 07789 903 households and businesses both 127. large and small. Hostess trolley; various In Stock: Concrete sand, building sand, compartments washed gravels including peagravel for keeping food and 20-40mm draining gravel. warm. Contact: £15 per tonne + VAT. Sarah on 430 248 Aggregate mix £15.50 per tonne + VAT. 2-tier wood For further details contact: effect tray Angus Wilson, Quarry Manager - 07715 606 685 trolley. Contact: James Mair - 07793 085 243 Fiona on 07789 Email: loch.bargatton@live.co.uk 903 127. Bargatton Quarry, Laurieston, Castle Douglas, DG7 2PS TV Unit. Handmade, wooden, with shelves for dvd Delivery can be arranged - subject to quantity player, sky box, Dinatron music centre; records, radio and tapes. Nice piece of furniture, well lookedafter. Needs a good home. Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 (preferably evenings). Bargatton Sand & Gravel Open 7 days Mon-Fri Weekends by arrangement etc and drawers. Contact: Sarah on 430 248 Wardrobe. Solid pine, 2-door, with mirror panel. In excellent condition. 7ft 2ins (H) 23ins (D) 70ins (W) . Item has been disassembled for ease of transportation. Contact: 420 839. Electronics 26” JVC TV with built-in Freeview. Contact: Davy on 01292 551 524 A3 scanner. Seems to have a communication problem with computer… I was given it but have no technical know-how so have given up, but for someone who knows about these things it may be fixable. Contact: 07727 127 997 Overhead projector. Also some acetates that I don’t need anymore. Contact: Diana on 07796 911 569 Dell 948 printer. Printer, flatbed scanner and fax. Contact: Diana on 07796 911 569 Plants/Garden Home wanted for Japanese acer (I think). About five feet high. At present in large plastic pot, needs releasing into the ground. Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 (preferably evenings). WANTED Set of 12 stair rod with clips. Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 (preferably evenings). Any second-hand shuttering or scaffold boards suitable for making raised vegetable beds. Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 (preferably evenings). Computer screen. Contact: 430 655 Glenkens Gazette page 5 sponsored by In this issue we take a look at a wood as fuel; types of wood, seasoned or green, air flow and more... WONDERFUL WOOD There has always been something rather magical about a real fire; the flickering light, the mesmeric quality, and the warm glow you just don’t get with gas or electric fires. The draw of a real fire, combined with the rising cost of gas, electricity and oil, have seen more and more fireplaces uncovered, chimneys uncapped and wood-burning stoves installed in kitchens and living rooms around the Glenkens, and indeed the country as a whole. The new buzzword that abounds is ‘wood fuel’; wood that is used to generate heat or electricity. It comes in three main forms; logs, chips, and pellets or briquettes made from compressed sawdust. Both logs and briquettes can be used in open fires, woodburning stoves can take logs or briquettes (some of these are not suitable for stoves - see manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific product), and woodfuelled heating systems used to generate electricity can be suited to any of the three. In this article we will focus on the wood fuel used in domestic woodburning stoves and open fires. The most traditional form of wood fuel in the past was discarded wood not suitable for building or joinery, such as smaller branch wood from windfall (branches found after high winds and storms), branches cut when coppicing (a way of managing woodland) and the waste from hedge-trimming. Smaller branches were used as kindling to start fires, and often referred to by the anachronistic use of the terms ‘faggots’ or ‘pimps’. Nowadays, larger wood which would have been saved for other purposes in the past is valuable in its own right as a fuel, and pre-cut logs are the preferred type to purchase for burning. For most families, with children in school and full-time jobs, we just don’t have the time or labour available to gather our own wood; although on school holidays it can be a useful ploy to keep children entertained and the wood shed stocked! The demand for pre-cut logs has seen a growth in the number of wood fuel suppliers offering a choice of hardwoods, softwoods, various species of tree, seasoned or green, and now briquettes have been added as an ‘ecofriendly’ alternative too; and that’s without even delving into the whole issue of calorific value. So let’s demystify things a little by saying that all wood burns. How quickly it burns and how much heat it produces in the burning process depends on three things; the type of wood you are using, whether it has been seasoned, and how much air you allow your stove or fireplace to draw in. So what wood do you want to use? The difference between hardwoods and softwoods is really a question of density. Softwoods (coniferous trees such as spruce/pine) grow faster than hardwoods (broad-leafed trees such as oak, elm, cherry, ash) and as a result are less dense and tend to burn quicker and hotter. They also have a higher resin content, which can make them spark more (so if you intend to put softwoods in your open fire remember to use a spark guard), and causes a higher build-up of resinous tar or ‘creosote’ in your chimney which must be cleaned out regularly to avoid chimney fires. The major cause of this type of build-up, however, is from burning un-seasoned softwood; un-seasoned wood is the least efficient in heat-production, as well as the worst for the condition of your fireplace or stove, and chimney. Seasoned hardwood is the best firewood to burn as it is denser, burns slower and is easier to regulate, and has less resin to create nasty chimney build-ups. With a wood-burning stove you can regulate the speed at which wood burns through adjusting the various air-intakes. This makes burners/stoves much more fuel-efficient than open fires. Also, with an open fire a large percentage heat goes up the chimney - some sources say as much as 90% - so if you have the opportunity, converting your open fire to a wood or multi-fuel stove will maximise your fuelefficiency. At the end of the day a shed full of hardwood is going to last you longer than a shed full of softwood, but in an area where spruces abound and softwoods are more readily available, it seems a common sense option. The most important factor in buying firewood is the moisture content. If you burn either wet or green/unseasoned wood, your fire will spend much of its energy boiling off the water rather than producing heat, as well as producing more soot and tar that will eventually damage your chimney. So if you are buying firewood for immediate use, make sure that it is seasoned. However, if you have the space to buy in advance and season your own wood over the course of a year, this will be your most cost-effective option. Whatever you decide to burn, keep warm this winter! Sara McNeill Glenkens Gazette PERFECTLY POTTY In February 2003 Hannah McAndrew received a start-up grant for her pottery business. This year she is celebrating her tenth year in business and plans to mark it with a series of events and special pots, starting with an open studio day on Saturday 9 February at her workshop in Kelton, Castle Douglas. Hannah is an award-winning slipware potter. She uses a technique that has been used for centuries to create earthenware pots characterised by the use of liquid clays called slips to trail patterns and images across their surfaces. Though inspired by medieval British pottery, Hannah uses these techniques in such a way that the pots she makes are characteristically hers and not copies of older wares. Hannah works in red terracotta clay and mixes coloured slips to create the decoration which is so key to her work. “I make pots with a purpose, pots for use in the home,” says Hannah. “My work, thrown in red earthenware, is decorated with coloured slips and rich honey glazes. The decoration is applied to the surface of the pot whilst the slipped surface is still glistening wet. The nature of this means that patterns applied must be free and fluid to take full advantage of this state.” In April 2011 Hannah was invited to demonstrate her skills in America at a series of workshops at arts centres on the east coast. November of the same year saw her exhibiting at the prestigious Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show as one of a select group of crafts people from Scotland who were there as invited guests of the show. During March 2012 an exhibition Aileen McLeod MSP working for you across the South of Scotland Postal address: Unit 7 Loreburn Shopping Centre High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2BD Email: aileen.mcleod.msp@scottish.parliament.uk Tel: 01387 255 334 Please check www.aileenmcleod.org for regular surgery, constituency and parliamentary updates page 6 billed as ‘the best of British slipware’ and featuring just three potters was held at Gallery St. Ives in Tokyo, Japan and Hannah’s pottery was included. 2013 brings with it the opportunity to exhibit in the USA again during the Minnesota Potters Tour in the St Croix Valley, and Hannah will be the first non-American to be invited to take part as a guest of the show. For further details contact Hannah on 01556 680 220 or info@hannahmcandrew.co.uk Hannah McAndrew Celebrating 10 Years in Business Open Studio Saturday 9 February, 3-8pm Studio 3, Lochdougan, Kelton, Castle Douglas www.hannahmcandrew.co.uk 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 7 A Fair Success A very successful craft fair was held in Mossdale Village Hall in November raising £418 for Hall funds. It was a very enjoyable and sociable occasion and the Hall Committee are very grateful for the support received from people of the Glenkens and beyond. Mossdale is a very small community and fundraising and arranging events is not easy so support from outside is very welcome to make events successful and worthwhile. Jill Haslam Mindfulness - It’s Not What You Think Mindfulness is officially mainstream; it was referred to by name on Eastenders over Christmas. So what is mindfulness, why has it become so popular and what can it do for you? There are many definitions, but essentially it is being in the present moment and knowing you are in the present moment with a relaxed, nonjudgemental state of mind and an open heart. It sounds easy until you sit down for ten minutes with the intention of calming the mind and not following the often unrelated stream of thoughts that continually come into it. Most people find it a real challenge. Thousands of people in Dumfries and Galloway alone suffer from a stress-related longterm condition. Pain is inevitable, but the suffering which is created by our minds when we revisit an event over and over can be optional. The job of mindfulness is to alleviate suffering based on concrete, evidence-based, neuroscientific understanding of how our minds work. With mindfulness, we train what is called the ‘mindfulness muscle’ to stop following negative thoughts using core methods which have been tried and tested over years, if not centuries. When applied regularly the actual makeup of the brain changes and new neurological pathways are built. These enable us to find more creative solutions to the inevitable challenges and problems of life. Mindfulness is the ultimate selfmanagement tool. It is not a new self-help method or therapy. The ability to calm the mind and emotions and be happy from within is foundational. As adults we also have a duty of care. Reports are showing that a brain gap is developing between generations. As younger people are ‘plugging in’ and spending more and more time on screens, the brain is becoming ‘eddiction’ trained resulting in shorter concentration spans and the need for more and more stimulation. A recent UNICEF report found that children in the UK are the most unhappy in the world, followed by American children. For anyone involved in children’s wellbeing it is a sobering thought indeed. I hear reports frequently from grandparents about the negative effects they feel ‘screen time’ is having on their grandchildren and they are often the ones who have a good overview. When she was asked for her opinion on what brings lasting happiness and true freedom, Alice Sommers-Hertz, survivor of concentration camps and now one hundred and thirteen years old, said it was the satisfaction of doing a job well and thankfulness; being grateful for every small thing - a smile, a flower, everything. It sounds like common sense, but as a friend recently said to me common sense isn’t all that common anymore, and gratitude is now being promoted as one of the most effective mindfulness tools in combating low-level depression and anxiety. It seems we do need tools and training to recover our true natures and restore the balance of our minds and hearts, and mindfulness is an exceptionally effective one. Debra Hall 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 TRUE NATURE - Mindfulness courses - one-to-one training contact Debra on 430 013 or debra.ha@hotmail.co.uk (22 yrs practice & experience) All courses are run in accordance with the UK guidelines for mindfulness teachers. Glenkens Gazette FANCY A BITE? People are understandably concerned about the crayfish in Loch Ken, but there is still some good fishing to be had. This pike was caught in December by Paul Thornton from Carronbridge, near Thornhill. He estimates it was 10 to 12 pounds, and it swam off well when released. Paul Goodwin page 8 On Your Bike Cycling has certainly been in the news over the past year. It’s fun, healthy exercise, good for the environment and can help save transport costs. Now that the days are lengthening and the weather improving, isn’t it time to dust off your bike and have a go? Cycle training is available to help improve skills in all areas of modern biking; Bikeability Scotland offers various courses including mountain biking, adult cycle training and Bikeability Levels 1, 2 and 3. The Bikeability training is primarily for school-age children, in place of the old cycling proficiency test. Bikeability Level 1 is entirely playground-based and aims to develop essential balance and control skills through fun activities. Bikeability Level 2 THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL New Galloway Open 7 Days Beautiful Riverside Location MEALS SERVED 12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm Renowned Ken Bridge Sunday Lunch Carvery, ‘The Best in the West’, now in its 8th year. Bed & breakfast en suite accommodation 01644 420 211 mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk ww.kenbridgehotel.co.uk aims to build on these skills and includes practising on roads and growing understanding of the Highway Code. As trained volunteers June, Linda, Martin and Claire have helped children in the Glenkens develop their cycling skills by delivering Bikeability Level 1 and 2 over the past two years. We plan to continue this training at Kells, Dalry and Carsphairn Primary Schools, and would like to develop cyclingbased activities for families in the area. If you are interested in helping us as a volunteer, please contact June on 420 361, or for further information about all aspects of cycle training visit the Cycling Scotland website at www.cyclingscotland.org June Hay Glenkens Gazette page 9 New Plans Hatching for Watson Birds We are busily fundraising to keep the momentum up on our Watson Bird celebrations, and have been awarded a £2,000 grant by the Cooperative Membership Community Fund which will get us on our way. The money from this and other project funds will go towards developing walking and driving trails around Dalry and the Glenkens. This will enable locals and visitors alike to enjoy birdwatching and the outdoors in the countryside which inspired local bird artist and illustrator Donald Watson. Our Feathers fundraising campaign has so far raised around £19,000 through an excellent response from our many supporters. The funds will be used to attract money from trusts and foundations for specific projects. We said thanks and farewell to Sarah Keast who has done a wonderful job in getting our activities and events under way. Aaron Edgar, from New Galloway, has now taken over her role on the project. Aaron will be based at Dalry Library on a Wednesday morning and a Thursday afternoon, and for the rest of the time at the CatStrand where is he is working on other projects. Please contact him on aaron@watsonbirds.org or 07917 034 450. We plan two key events this year - VISIT US ONLINE The Glenkens Gazette can now be viewed online at www.glenkensgazette.co.uk The latest issue, as well as previous issues, can be seen and we’re also hoping to have extended versions of articles which have had to be cut due to space constraints in the printed publication. There is also the potential for a blog, and for events listings between issues - as the Gazette is bi-monthly, a lot of local activities fall between issues, so it would be great to have an up-to-date events page. If you have any ideas on how the website could best benefit the communities of the Glenkens features you would enjoy using, items you would like to see, links you feel are important - please get in touch with Sarah at glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk one in March and the other in September. Join us on Easter Saturday, 30 March, in Dalry Town Hall for displays and demonstrations (see ad on back page). Our annual festival will be Friday 20 to Sunday 22 September at a number of venues in Dalry. In addition to the usual events we have some new ones planned, so visit our website to stay posted - www.watsonbirds.org Watson Birds is a Glenkens Community and Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative and is supported by the Dumfries and Galloway LEADER Programme, Scottish Natural Heritage and the BIG Lottery Awards for All. Roger Crofts, roger@watsonbirds.org, 07803 595267 Glenkens Gazette page 10 CatStrand Highlights Just when you think the festivities are over, it’s time for haggis, neeps and tatties. Join us for Burns Supper at the CatStrand on Saturday 9 February for a dram, a poem, and the full traditional fayre. On the menu for fans of Gershwin, Cole Porter, or Irving Berlin there are some jazz highlights for you; on Friday 8 February Gentle Jazz return to the CatStrand (where they last played to a full house in 2008), and award-winning saxophonistcomposer Tommy Smith will perform on Saturday 30 March. On Friday 1 March the CatStrand Youth Players proudly present their Scottish Community Drama Association (SCDA) Festival entries for 2013. We wish them continuing success in the competition! Highlights in music continue with one of the world’s most highly respected classical guitarists, Eduardo Catemario, and Grammy award winning Americana star Mollie O’ Brien, all the way from West Virginia. Pick up a programme for full listings, or to book tickets call 01644 420 374 or visit www.catstrand.com appreciate A WORTHY CAUSE really the fantastic value offered? Most readers will have attended an event at the CatStrand. Some of us will be regular supporters, paying £8 to £12 for a ticket. But how many of us Eduardo Catemario We would probably have to pay more than twice as much in a city venue for the shows we see on our doorstep. With an audience capacity of less than 90, all these events are heavily subsidised; usually the takings do not cover the cost of the performers, and certainly do not contribute to the cost of running the building or staffing costs.   The CatStrand has brought many benefits to our Glenkens communities; there really is something for everyone, young or old or inbetween. Some examples of what’s on offer are: Family and children’s events, music, comedy, drama, films, lectures, fitness activities, art and craft exhibitions, a shop, café, meeting place and computing and internet facilities with wifi. Despite the many generous grants from public bodies and various family trusts, and invaluable help from an army of volunteers, the CatStrand makes an operating loss, which obviously cannot continue forever. Nor should we assume that in these times of financial constraint grants will continue at their past rate. Much thought and effort is being applied to find ways of meeting this annual shortfall, but I would suggest to anyone who can afford it that this is a worthy cause, and we need to dig a bit deeper into our pockets to ensure that the CatStrand continues to thrive. I know that many of you help raise funds for other longerestablished community facilities in the Glenkens, and the CatStrand is the ‘new kid on the block’, but it has quickly become a major focus of community activities, and certainly offers value for money. If you would like to help, why not sign up with the ‘Friends of the CatStrand‘ - membership forms are available at the CatStrand reception desk, or call 420 374 to find out more. I promise you the fees will not break the bank. Gerry Cinderby Glenkens Gazette page 11 Glenkens Gazette page 12 Glenkens Gazette page 13 Glenkens Gazette page 14 Glenkens Gazette page 15 Dalry School Christmas Concert On Thursday 13 December, children from Nursery to S4 performed at the Dalry School Christmas Concert. The P5/6/7 class began the night off by singing some festive songs to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. Children form Nursery to P7 then performed the show ‘It’s a Party’, which told the story of the angels organising a party for the birth of Jesus. After the interval the secondary pupils took to the stage to perform group and individual items, from reggae to traditional Christmas songs. There was a guest appearance by some of the staff members too! The whole school then returned to the stage for the grand finale of the jubilee song ‘Sing’ and a Christmas Medley. Depute Head Teacher Annette Craig said: “This was a fantastic night for all the children, from ages three to sixteen, and it was a whole school effort to produce a performance of such a high standard. The children all performed outstandingly and were a credit to the school.” Kells Primary Christmas Concert The annual Christmas Concert at Kells Primary was held on the afternoon and evening of Wednesday 19 December. P1-4 opened the concert by playing a tune on their recorders and then singing ‘Jingle Bells.’ P5-7 then performed ‘The Angry Hotel Man.’ The pupils told the story of the Nativity through the eyes of the innkeeper, who was angry as a result of the numerous people coming to his door to visit the baby Jesus. The raffle for the Christmas Hamper was drawn at the end of the performance by the PTA, the winner of which was Miss J McQueen. The evening was concluded with the parents and friends enjoying refreshments, mince pies and shortbread. Well done to all the pupils who performed! Zarah Groves would like to congratulate her talented piano pupils on their achievements in 2012. Zarah says: “I think its an amazing feat that these children do so well in their piano exams. It’s jolly hard to pass; it’s the Royal Schools of Music and their standards are very high indeed. Children fail all the time - but not these pupils…they really are brilliant and work really, really hard.” In March 2012: James Jones Prep Test; Evie Mair Grade 1 112 Marks, Finlay Mcgaw Grade 1 112, Marks, Erin Mcgaw Grade 2 117 Marks, Hayley Mcgaw Grade 2 120 Merit, Yelena Woolfe Grade 2 113 Marks, Bronnen Pears Grade 3 105 Marks, Emily Jones Grade 4 117 Marks, Jordan Pears Grade 4 111 Marks. In June 2012: Anne Margaret Errington Performance Assessment; Ellen Bielinski Grade 1 120 Merit Kirsten Wallace Grade 5 110 Marks. In December 2012: Daisy Hickman Grade 5 115 Marks, Bryher Pears Grade 6 124 Merit, Sorsha Woolfe Grade 1 126 Merit. Theory of Music Grade 5 was achieved by: Bryher Pears 94% Distinction, Sarah Mckee 87% Merit, Eleanor Jones 80% Merit, Kirsten Wallace 87% Merit. Glenkens Gazette page 16 Carsphairn Burns Supper Carsphairn started the Burns Supper season rolling on Thursday 17 January with a hugely enjoyable evening with guests, friends, poetry and music. As tradition dictates, the fare was Haggis, neeps and tatties followed by trifle, tattie scones, oatcakes and cheese. Funds raised are going towards the extension of Lagwyne Hall, and David Gibbon from the Committee thanked the artists and guests for their attendance at this popular annual event. Jean Gibbon Photograph - The Top Table: Graham Bell (Immortal Memory), Rev David Bartholomew (Selkirk Grace), Gordon Hennessy (Address to the Haggis and Recitations), Andrew Dunlop (Toast to The Lassies) and Andy McCartney (Piper). Seated are Susan Muir (Reply to the Toast to The Lassies), Robert McTurk (Chairman) and Andy McClymont (Singer, Burns Songs). December 2012 George ON THE BUS In Colbenson, from Dalry, arranged for fellow Dalry resident, 101 year old Bella Wood, to take a ride to Ayr on the Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) minibus. Bella’s son lives just outside Ayr so the bus dropped her off there while the other passengers did some Christmas shopping. George, who visits Bella each week, says: “Bella thoroughly enjoyed her trip - it had been over two years since she had last visited her son. She liked being on the bus as you’re high up, so get a great view, and is already wondering when the next trip is!” 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 Glenkens Gazette page 17 Stewartry Photo of the Issue Camera Club (SCC) The Stewartry Camera Club’s second competition of the current season was based on the theme Urban Landscape. The competition was in the format of digital images, and the judge was the respected Dalbeattie-based photographer, Roger Lever. In his opening remarks, Roger advised that he had experimented with the Urban Landscape theme and was interested and impressed with the different approaches taken by club members within the fifty images presented to him for judging. First place was awarded to Alec Blackadder for his photograph entitled ‘Urban Decay’, with Glenkens photographer Mary McIlvenna coming in second with her photograph titled ‘Oban’. The SCC meets every Wednesday at 7.30 in the Tolbooth Arts Centre, Kirkcudbright - new members are very welcome. The SCC course, ‘Photography - The Next Step’ will be held on Saturday 9 February. To book, or for further details, contact Mary McIlvenna on 01644 420 613. Picking a winner was a difficult decision this issue as we had so many great entries. In the end we opted for a wintry scene by Duncan McNaught, snapped near his home in Glenlee, to suit the time of year. Duncan wins a meal for two at the Ken Bridge Hotel. Next issue’s prize will be a meal for two at Pringle’s in Corsock (up to the value of £30), so keep sending in your photos! We will keep entries on file and if they suit a future theme/season, they will be re-considered next time. “Since advertising in the Glenkens Gazette we have reached customers in the Glenkens area that we were unable to reach with previous adverts elsewhere. The ad has been a complete success and we are receiving more enquiries through this advert all the time. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Sarah and all concerned for their professional work, and we will definitely continue to advertise with you.” Jimmy and Hilary Mair, Bargatton Sand and Gravel Quarry Glenkens Gazette page 18 AGNES COOKS… Fish with a Nip in the Tail After moving here from the city we bought two huge chest freezers, as I imagined access to the shops would be difficult. This turned out not be the case but having purchased the freezers I realised I needed to fill them. The problem I have is that I am a hopeless ‘batch’ cook. I recognise the sense in cooking two or three cottage pies at a time, or making extra cakes, but I just prefer cooking most things from scratch and having them fresh from the oven. So what do I fill my freezers with? Well, one is kept mainly for meat and fish and the other with everything else. I do freeze a large amount of stocks (mostly chicken and game as I think fish and vegetable stocks are best used fresh). The recipe I am using today is based on an experience I had when using some fish from the freezer. Fish doesn’t freeze well for long. I find vacuum-packed is best, but even then three months is really the limit for keeping. The fish will not go off after this time, but the texture will have changed and the taste will not be at its best. On a whim one day I purchased a whole salmon. It was a huge beast of a fish. Unfortunately it was the day before going off on holiday and so I froze it whole, and there it remained for more months than I care to say. The problem was that it needed a chillies, roughly chopped (seeds large family gathering to do it removed) justice and, as I also recognised 2 cloves of garlic, roughly the amount of prep involved, I chopped always seemed to find an excuse A piece of fresh ginger (about not to use it. Finally at Christmas the size of a big toe!) peeled and time I faced my demons and got grated the monster out of the freezer. Handful of fresh basil Although the fish was fine to eat, Handful of fresh coriander the texture was a little soft and (parsley if you prefer) so not suitable for cooking as 2-3 tablespoons fish sauce fillets or presenting as a whole Juice of 1 lime salmon (a whole salmon frozen 1 teaspoon sugar for up to three months is fine to cook as a whole fish). Salt and pepper This is the recipe I came up Method: with - they are Thai inspired Put everything into a food fish cakes, but have no added processor and blitz until the bread crumbs or potatoes. They mixture forms a paste. It needs contain no flour so are suitable to have a really sticky texture for gluten intolerant diets. I have or it will break up when frying. listed smaller quantities of the Form into round, flattish cakes. ingredients than I used but you This mixture will make 4 -6 large can multiply the proportions if cakes or 12 -16 smaller bite size needed. You will need a food ones. The cakes then need to be processor to obtain the right chilled to firm up for at least one consistency. hour. Shallow fry in sunflower oil Ingredients: or a light olive oil until brown on each side. Serve hot with a chilli Approx 500g salmon fillets, dipping sauce. skinned (or any combination Agnes Holden of ‘meaty’ fish that you “It’s wonderful having Agnes’ cookery have) page in the Glenkens Gazette. After having ½ bunch of spring onions, had the pleasure of tasting samples of her roughly cooking over the years, it is great to be chopped able to try her recipes at home.” Aletta 1-2 red 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 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.  01556 502263  VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS FHB Fencing Dalry Domestic and Agricultural Fencing 01644 430 495 495 (Peter) or 07767 795 498 (Jonathan) Glenkens Gazette page 19 Dalry Community Council Update The forthcoming meetings of Dalry Community Council are: Monday 4 February and Monday 4 March; I’m not sure what we’re doing for April yet as Monday 1 April is Easter Monday... All meetings are currently in Dalry Town Hall at 7pm, and they are open to anyone who wishes to attend. If anyone of Dalry Parish is interested or curious about what we get up to, and would like to come along and see for themselves, please do. We’re an informal bunch doing our best for the local affairs of Dalry and welcome the views of Dalry citizens on issues that face them. The more people that take an interest in local affairs, the more we can achieve. Local information is regularly posted on the notice board beside the Post Office, and past minutes of meetings can be viewed in Dalry Library. Dalry Community Council would like to give a public thank you to DGHP and Armstrongs for the kind donation of a Christmas tree for the village. In the current economic climate, keeping our local traditions going is proving ever harder and such help is much appreciated. Andi Holmes, Chair, Dalry Community Council • 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 Balmaclellan Community Council Update The first meeting of 2013 for the recently elected members of Balmaclellan Community Council (CC) took place earlier than usual due to Balmaclellan Village Hall Co. hosting their popular Burns Night dinner on Saturday 2 February (only a few tickets remain so get yours while you can!). Letters of appreciation for the Children’s Christmas Party and Senior Citizens’ Christmas Dinner were shared with pleasure. Among items on the agenda were power cuts in the village, subsequently found to be linked to efforts to identify 40-yearold cables for sinking underground; work going on UK-wide. Initial talks on community windfarm benefits led to the proposal that this be a main item at the next CC meeting which will be held on Monday 25 February at 8pm - all welcome. June Hay What’s On: Thursday 14 February: Special Valentine’s menu Friday 15 February: Mr and Mrs Competition St. Patrick’s Day weekend: live folk music Our new menu will be available from the end of the January, so come along and try something different. 61 Victoria Street NEWTON STEWART DG8 6NL To find out more about these and more, call us here at the Clachan on 01644 430 241. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Email: mail@theclachaninn.co.uk www.theclachaninn.co.uk 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 20 GREEN LIGHT FOR TRANSPORT PROJECT - another big step forward! Plans are well in hand for extending the Rural UPCOMING TRIPS By the time you read this, Transport Project to trips will hopefully be under the Stewartry in April way again. We will be visiting Glasgow on Saturday 9 March, 2013. This is a project originally successfully piloted by Dumfries & Galloway Council in Wigtownshire, and is aimed at making better use of transport facilities in the area. Initially transport arrangements for adult recreation and day centres will be reviewed, with the Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) being the service provider for this new project, using a vehicle provided by the Council. To be asked by the Council to provide this service is a great compliment to GTI, and also a good opportunity to secure our financial future, allowing us to continue to meet the demands of the people of the Glenkens. Cathy Agnew attended her final GTI Committee meeting in her role as GCAT Chairperson in December, and was praised and thanked for the support she had given GTI over the last ten years. She responded by saying how pleased she was that GTI had progressed so well during that time. At the December meeting, the Committee considered all the available information about the Rural Transport Solutions Project before agreeing that it would be in the best interests of the people of the Glenkens for GTI to be involved with this to coincide with the Craft Fair at the SECC; if you wish to attend this please make your own arrangements to buy tickets, or perhaps just use the trip as a means of getting to Glasgow and visit the Transport Museum (nearby) or do your own thing in the city centre. On Monday 25 March we will re-visit Callender House, near Falkirk; there is free entry to this interesting property which is situated in its own grounds with good catering facilities available. It is planned to visit Mire House, overlooking Bassenthwaite in the Lake District (see their website for full details) on Wednesday 17 April; a good time of year to visit an area of outstanding beauty. GTI have been asked to provide two buses each day for this year’s Spring Fling which runs from Saturday 25 May to Monday 27 May. Services will be available to all parts of Dumfries and Galloway, and with the buses setting off from the Glenkens you won’t even have to make your way to the official pick-up point. Tickets will be sold this year through the CatStrand, so watch out for full details nearer the time. Finally, you will be interested to learn that last year the Cllr Finlay Carson GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE Castle Douglas & Glenkens for an appointment Tel: 07825 633 185 or email: finlay@finlaycarson.co.uk www.finlaycarson.co.uk General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL  01644 420234  two minibuses travelled 26,098 miles, carrying 4,365 passengers. This involved 937 hours by voluntary drivers, and I would like to thank the drivers, passengers and all those people who have supported GTI during this time - we look forward to another busy year ahead, hopefully with better weather! Keith Cooper, GTI Administrator Pancake Lunch Balmaclellan and Kells Guild will be holding their 16th annual Pancake Lunch on Shrove Tuesday, 12 February, in New Galloway Town Hall from 12noon to 2pm. This has become a very popular event in New Galloway over the years. This year the money raised will go to The British Red Cross. Please come along for your pancakes and support this charity. £5 will give you a filled savoury and sweet pancake plus a cup of tea or coffee. There will also be a sales table and Tombola in aid of Guild funds. At the Guild Meeting in the Lower Town Hall on Wednesday 13 March, a speaker from the British Red Cross will be coming to receive the cheque and to give a talk about their work. This will be an open meeting for anyone who is interested in this vital work. 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 jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 21 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN The ‘Muir Doctor’ of New Galloway In my last Gazette contribution there was mention of Alexander Trotter of Dalshangan. His grandfather was one of many Glenkens residents who deserves to be much better known. He was Robert Trotter, a medical doctor (c.1736-1815) and associate of the Kenmures and Robert Burns. Educated at Dumfries Grammar School, he proceeded to study medicine at Edinburgh University. Plans to emigrate to the West Indies were foiled when he missed his ship, and instead he headed for the Glenkens where his father, John of Burnfoot, Tynron, had gained some reputation as a surgeon and a wastrel who squandered the family fortune. On arrival, Robert was so fortunate as to cure Margaret Murray, of the prominent New Galloway family, of a longstanding but unnamed disease. Other achievements involved sewing a man’s nose - severed by a cutlass - back onto his face. He was also credited with eradicating from the south of Scotland the disease of yaws or ‘sivens’, which caused painful bodily lesions. He thus acquired a reputation beyond Glenkens, attracting patients from as far away as Edinburgh, Ayr and Stranraer. On one occasion he is known to have personally consulted in Portpatrick, but he appears to have operated mainly through a system of apprentices based at strategic stations such as Moniaive. Such individuals were not hard to find since, at this period, those intent on a medical career were often apprenticed to established doctors before undertaking university courses. Also there was an overproduction of medical graduates who found difficulty in obtaining suitably lucrative practices, which is why Trotter was remarkable in gaining such success while based in the wilds of Glenkens. His treatments seem to have been a mixture of the scientific and the traditional. He regularly referred patients to the Physic Well in the New Galloway parks and when his own children caught whooping cough at school in Balmaclellan,”they were sent in a cart to be ground in the hopper at Gordonstone Mill, which was expected to cure the complaint”! This practice was not as alarming as it appears. In his Gallovidian Encyclopedia John MacTaggart explains that children suffering from ‘kenkhoast’ were put through the hoppers of the mill by their mothers who fancied the disease left them. Elsewhere the mill was simply set in motion in the presence of the children, so it was the cartload of grain that was ground rather than the kids. The doctor was an energetic, somewhat restless individual who moved around a lot within the district. He first lived in Balmaclellan and then at Glenlee Park. Kenmure offered him the rent of Viewfield where the doctor built a new dwelling house, but a subsequent falling-out led him to lease Trolane, Dalry, owned by the Earl of Galloway. For a while he resided in Dalry, until Kenmure persuaded him back to New Galloway. Trotter had obviously inherited some of his father’s bad habits for he died a bankrupt. Throughout his life he kept racehorses, always an expensive proposition. He was a talented curler and played at quoits, as well as stone-putting. But his greatest weakness was cock-fighting, something of a passion among gamblers in Galloway in general, and Glenkens in particular. Three days before he died he was carried to Dalarran Holm to witness a cock-fight. Fellow afficionados were Rev M’Kie of Balmaclellan, Lord William Gordon, Willie Sinclair who emigrated to Canada, William Corson of Cubbox and James Wylie, the Beadle of Kells. Trotter’s wraith was seen in New Galloway shortly before he died. His son recalled that during the doctor’s last illness, in the midst of his family there was a rap on the table. “That’s a call for me”, he said, “my time here will not be long”. Families continued to believe into the late nineteenth century that such a rapping at table or door heralded the death of a family member. The Muir Doctor’s grave is in Kells kirkyard. Ted Cowan Glenkens Gazette page 22 FEBRUARY & MARCH FEBRUARY Thurs 21, Film: Ruby Sparks, 7.30pm, CatStrand Thurs 7 (* Change of date; no longer 27 Jan), Film: Anna Karenina, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 22, Race Night; Friends of Dalry School hosting a Race Night evening with cash bar, to raise funds. Please see posters around the Glenkens for further details. Sat 2, Launch Night for Yird Muin Starn (Old Scots for Earth Moon Stars), 7pm, CatStrand Fri 8, Glenkens Art Workshop Exhibition Preview, 6pm, CatStrand Fri 8, Gentle Jazz, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 9, Hannah McAndrew Open Studio, 3-8pm, see p6 Sat 9, The CatStrand Burns Supper, 7pm, CatStrand Sat 9, SCC course: ‘Photography - The Next Step’, see p17 Tue 12, Pancake Lunch, New Galloway Town Hall, 12noon 2pm, see p20 Tues 12, Film: Brave, 2pm, CatStrand Wed 13, Open Stage, 7pm, CatStrand Thurs 14, Special Valentine’s Menu, Clachan Inn, Dalry Fri 15, Mr & Mrs Competition, Clachan Inn, see p19 Fri 15 - Sun 17, St Patrick’s Day Weekend: live folk music, Clachan Inn, Dalry, see p19 Fri 15, Valentine’s Disco for Primary Pupils, 3.35-5pm, Dalry School (music, games & refreshments) MARCH Fri 1, Youth Players: Little Bro Morning Little Sis Afternoon, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 2, The Smithy re-opens, New Galloway, see p3 Fri 8, Eduardo Catemario, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 9, GTI Bus Trip to Glasgow (see p20) Wed 13, 1st of Glasgow University’s ‘Talk’ series: Remembering People, Remembering Place - Peter Pan Moat Brae Trust, 2–4pm, CatStrand Fri 15, Cookery Demonstration, Cream o’ Galloway, see p9­­ Place - Walter Scott’s Galloway: Guy Mannering and Redgauntlet, Margaret Elphinstone 2–4pm, CatStrand Thurs 21, Film: Skyfall, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 22, Forrest Estate Experiences Open Day, Forrest Estate, see back page Sat 23, Forrest Estate Experiences Open Day, Forrest Estate, see back page Sat 23, Mollie O Brien Trio, 7.30pm, CatStrand Mon 25, GTI Bus Trip to Falkirk (see p20) Wed 27, 3rd of Glasgow University’s ‘Talk’ series: Remembering People, Remembering Place - Witches and Charmers of Galloway, Dr Lizanne Henderson, 2–4pm, CatStrand Sat 30, Easter Saturday Activities with Watson Birds, see back page Sat 30, Tommy Smith, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 16, St Patricks Day: Irish Comedy Night, “The Scottish Child Minding Association 7.30pm, (SCMA) has attempted to generate CatStrand Wed 20, 2nd of Glasgow University’s ‘Talk’ series: Remembering People, Remembering interest in registered childminding in the Glenkens area for some time with little response, so I am delighted to say that after our advert and advertorial in the Glenkens Gazette, we have already received four enquiries.” Ann 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 Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) bus or for more information please contact keith cooper, GTI Administrator, on 01644 420 374. Glenkens Gazette page 23 ...GLENKENS DIARY REGULAR EVENTS: CatStrand (New Galloway): Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am Children’s Dance Class: Mon during term time, 3.45-4.45pm age 3-7, 4.30-5.30pm age 8-15 Carers Coffee & Chat: Tues, 10am-12noon Teen Spirit: Tues during term time, 7-8:30pm (P7 - S3) and 8-9:30pm (S3+, Duke of Edinburgh) 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 Zumbatomic, last Sat each month,10-10.45am Catstrand Youth Players: Sun during term time, 2pm Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, last Sun of the month, 2-4pm Glenkens Community Centre (Dalry): Contact: Kath 430 281 Glenkens Children’s Club: Mon & Fri, 9.15-11.45am Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm & 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 Thursday Craft Group: Thurs, 24pm Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm Guides: Tue during term-time, 6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281 Various Locations: Texas Hold ‘em Poker, Mon, 7.15pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.4511.15am, New Galloway Town Hall Glenkens Community Councils Balmaclellan Community Council Meetings: Last Monday each month, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall. Carsphairn Community Council Meetings: Last Monday each month, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn. Dalry Community Council Meetings: 1st Monday each month, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. New Galloway & Kells Community Council Meetings: 2nd Monday each month, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall. Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library. CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon: 1st. Carsphairn: 10.30am: 1st,2nd,3rd,4th. Dalry: 12noon: 1st,3rd,4th. Dalry: 10.30am: 2nd(Feb),5th. Kells: 10.30am: 2nd(Mar),3rd,4th Special Services/Events: Sun 10 Feb, 10.30am, United Family Servicefor Dalry, Balmaclellan and Kells Churches in Dalry Church. Fri 22 Feb, 7pm, Beetle Drive, Dalry Town Hall. Fri 1 Mar, 7pm, World Day of Prayer Service, Balmaclellan Church. Mon 4 Mar, 7.30pm, Fellowship Dinner on Israel/Palestine at Kenbridge Hotel. Sun 10 Mar, 10.30am, United Family Service for Dalry and B & K Churches in Kells Church. Fri 15 Mar ,5.30pm, Church Ceilidh, Dalry Town Hall. Fri 29 Mar, 7am, Good Friday Service, Kells Church. Sun 31 Mar, 7am, Easter Dawn Service, Dalry Church. Sun 31 Mar, 10.30am, United Easter Service with the Choir, Dalry Church. Communion Services: Sun 24 Feb, 10.30 am, Kells Church. Sun 17 Mar, 10.15 am, Carsphairn Church. Sun 17 Mar, 12 noon, Dalry 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 Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Dog Training: Tue & Wed, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. Contact: Eric 460 670 Wednesday Quiz Night, Wed, 8.30pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway 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 Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Folk Music Session: 1st Sat each month, 8pm, The Clachan Inn, Dalry Dalry Library (Tel: 430 234) Opening Times: 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 please phone. ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 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 Glenkens Gazette page 24 Forrest First in UK Forrest Estate have recently developed a clay pigeon shoot and are pleased to announce that they have been granted full planning permission to shoot up to 365 days a year. The shooting ground, which was recently featured in Shooting Times magazine, has been created to supplement the many sporting activities that already exist in the region. The primary objective of the Forrest Estate Experiences facility is to offer a first class country sports activity centre that provides an opportunity for anyone interested to come along and have a go - whether a complete novice or experienced shooter. The centre prides itself in providing access and education for shooting, fishing and deer stalking at all levels, and has four fully qualified shooting instructors on hand. The concept is the first of its kind in the UK and unlike anything else in the area, or indeed Scotland, offering multiple stands simulating real game shooting situations. Over 30 stands provide the opportunity for visitors to test themselves on exciting targets, as well as offering the option of catching their first trout or experiencing the exhilaration of deer stalking. Activities are currently by appointment only - single visitors as well as groups, including families, can be catered for. “We believe this facility will be a real asset to the Glenkens and the whole of the region. The feedback we have had so far from clients has been extremely positive. It’s fantastic that we have been able to do this in Dumfries and Galloway, an area already renowned for country sports,” says Andrew Case, Shooting Ground Manager. Two open days are planned for Friday 22 and Saturday 23 March for anyone interested visiting the centre. Alternatively, should you wish to visit at any other time please contact Andrew Case on 01644 430 015, 07747 691 447, or andrew@casesport.com. For further details visit www.forrestestateexperiences.com EasterSaturdayEvents Join us on Easter Saturday (30 March) in Dalry Town Hall for ... For further info contactAaronon 07917 034 450 Eggs and Nest Exhibition with Hugh Bryden and Lizzie Farey Display of decorated eggs from local schools Chocolate Egg making Opportunity for kids to decorate their own eggs Talk on nest building by Professor Mike Hansel of Glasgow University. Teas/Coffees and home baking provided WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk APR/MAY COPY DEADLINE: MON 4 MAR Design & co-ordination: Sarah Ade sarah_ade@tiscali.co.uk Printing:Stranraer & Wigtownshire Free Press www.stranraer-freepress.co.uk The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No. SC032050  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 74 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_074 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 2013 Description An account of the resource Editor: Sarah Ade https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/221/GlenkensGazette75.pdf db888e9a236c5ebf30c7612f1742c8e2 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 75 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry ISSUE 75 Are We Heating the Sky? We may have the best Dark Skies in the country but are we also heating them? Recently the plethora of TV adverts, newspaper articles and government initiatives have all brought ‘green energy’ to everyone’s attention. Are our houses adequately insulated? What is renewable energy? Can I get a grant for solar panels? There are many questions we would all like answers to but where do we start and who can we trust? Last September, Dalry Community Council, the Glenkens Business Association and LING (Local Initiatives in New Galloway) joined the Community Sustainable Renewable Energy Project which is run by D & G Council with input from Community Energy Scotland. The aims of the project are to ease the reliance on utility companies, reduce the carbon footprint and to tackle fuel poverty. As a first step, Dalry Community Council last month hired the services of a thermal investigator who with the aid of a sophisticated FLIR thermal image camera was able to do an initial assessment of some of Dalry’s houses and buildings. The results can be surprising: even a house with an insulated roof and double glazing can have heat escaping just because of a poorly fitted seal. And with the price of heating it is madness to be heating the Galloway skies! Andi Holmes, Dalry Community Council chair, comments “At FREE Photo: Antony Berretti (01671 404 400) April/May 2013 this stage we are keen to raise awareness of the importance of insulation and the benefits of regularly inspecting our properties to prevent heat loss. We all chose to be involved with this Renewable Energy scheme because we want to seek the best for our residents and help them keep warm in these financially challenging times. The three year programme provides education and assistance with ‘green’ projects which we hope will lead to a show later in 2013 with information on many aspects of alternative energy and insulation specifically geared to Glenkens residents”. LOCAL SINGER’S CELEBRITY VOICE A trailer for a BBC programme has brought overnight acclaim for a local singer. Rebecca Goldsmith’s rendering of “I vow to thee my country” was widely broadcast on television and radio to promote the new historical drama series, ‘The Village”, on BBC1. Rebecca, who is the Youth Arts Development Officer at the CatStrand, sang and played cello on the trailer with guitarist/producer Jon Dix. The BBC had invited musicians to pitch for the trailer with a modern interpretation of the traditional hymn. Rebecca and Jon won the contract against much competition. As soon as the trailer was broadcast there were requests to hear the full version on U-tube. “People were quite indignant,” says Rebecca, “but we had only recorded a couple of lines. We had still to record the full song!” Rebecca - who performs as Beck Goldsmith - has already released two albums. Her next live performance will be on 24 May at Kirkcudbright on Song. She has plans for more music at the CatStrand and is about to launch the “Big Youth Music Project” as well as a film festival. Rebecca lives in Castle Douglas with her husband, Simon, who is also a musician. A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve www.glenkensgaze�e.co.uk Glenkens Gazette Editor’s Note Sorry we’re a bit late...but it all came together in the end! Many thanks to Jonnie Dowswell for helping out with the Gazette during this rather intense time. Baby Finn was born on Wednesday 6 March; he weighed 8lb 13oz, and is a very happy and healthy little boy. Sarah page 2 A Big Thank You The Glenkens Gazette would like to thank the Glenkens Community Shop for their generous donation towards to running costs of the Gazette. Without support such as this from local charities and businesses, the Gazette would not be able to continue. Many thanks for your help with my Mindfulness article and advertisement. The editorial input and proof reading input you and your team at the Glenkens Gazette gave me and all your attention to detail was fantastic. I’ve had a lot of interest for both the article and for the 1-1 mindfulness coaching and 8 week training courses. I think you are running a great community newspaper and for anyone who provides a local service or product, advertising with you is a very effective way of generating interest and business. Thanks again. Kind regards, Debra Hall COMMUNITY SHOP SUCCESS Some would be doubtful that a charity shop could be sustainable in such a small area. However, our community has proven that good things do come in small packages as the success of the Glenkens Community Shop has proven over the past year. On behalf of the Volunteers - Anne, Andy, Avril, Betty, Cath, Helen Gill, Libby, Sarah and myself we thank you for your custom and your wonderful donations during the shop’s first year in business. They have enabled us to raise over £6000 for local good causes, with £3760.14 already having been given out in grants to individuals and organisations within the Glenkens. We will be inviting more grant applications at the end of June - forms will be available from the shop at that time. We have applied for charitable status and are awaiting a decision from OSCR (Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator), but more of your generous donations are required for us to keep up the good work; we need craft items - wool is a favourite of many a customers, and patterns are also popular - books and bric-a-brac, clothes, and with the little ones the toy department is a must. We have had some wonderful clothes donated, Family and friends coming to stay? with many designer labels, so next time you’re looking for a trend-setter or a comfy sweater, pop in and browse our rails. Or if you fancy a natter come on in - we always have time for some chatter. We have community notice boards which we try to keep up to date with things to see and do in the local area. Once again, thank you for all your support. Shirley and the wonderfully versatile Volunteers of the Glenkens Community Shop If you would like to volunteer in the shop, then please get in touch with Shirley on 430182. Volunteering has been proven to be good for you; it’s free, fun and you get to meet lots of new people. So if you have a few hours to spare, please join our team! New Galloway Short of space? Golf Club Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) www.nggc.co.uk Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 or 07789 903127 Founded 1902 v 01644 420737 v Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Glenkens Gazette page 3 Top Prizes at Carsphairn Show SHEEP AND SHORTBREAD Carsphairn Pastoral and Horticultural Society recently held their Annual General Meeting. Hugh Clark Kennedy was elected as new President, taking over from Peter Hunter Blair, Vice Presidents are Jimmy Wallace and Andy Sinclair, Neil Sinclair has been appointed Assistant Showground Convenor and Ann Finlay is Assistant Secretary. The date of the Show was confirmed as Saturday 1 June, to be held as usual at The Crofts, Carsphairn by kind permission of the McMorran Family. The Secretary reported a successful Show in 2012, with a reasonable Bank Balance to start 2013. Due to an increase in sponsorship from our generous patrons, it was decided that the Society would increase the prize money and award each Sheep Section Champion £50, and the Interbreed Champion £250. The place prize money for the Sheep Classes will also be more than doubled. The Dog Trial Champion and reserve prizes will also be increased to £100 and £50 respectively, and a new prize of £50 has been donated to the winner of the Senior Hill Race. Schedules for the Sheep Classes and Industrial Section will be available soon on the Show Page on the Carsphairn website at www.carsphairn.org Jean Gibbon, Secretary This year the Exhibition in Carsphairn Heritage Centre is ‘A History of Carsphairn Show’, from its origins as Carsphairn Fair, back in the mists of time, through the formation of Carsphairn Pastoral and Horticultural Society in the 19th Century up until the present day. The first Show, on 2 June 1876, held classes only for Poultry, Dogs and Flowers. This has evolved over the years into today’s important show of Sheep with Sheepdog Trials and Sports, and a show of Sticks, Handicrafts, Baking and Flowers. Carsphairn Heritage Group’s committee would love to exhibit some of the prizes presented outright in former years. For instance, where is the Case of Carvers presented in 1903 for the Best Male Blackface Sheep, or the 1907 Oak Mounted Spirit Stand “for the best-wooled sheep suitable for high districts”? Could anyone lay their hands on one of the “engraved trophies” presented in 1953 to mark the Queen’s Coronation? Should anyone be willing to lend us such treasures, or indeed any historic photographs (which we would copy and return) please contact a member of the committee or email info@carsp hairnheritage.org . The exhibition opens on Good Friday, 29 March and is open at weekends and public holidays. Joyce Hunter Blair THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL New Galloway Open 7 Days Beautiful Riverside Location MEALS SERVED 12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm Renowned Ken Bridge Sunday Lunch Carvery, ‘The Best in the West’, now in its 8th year. Bed & breakfast en suite accommodation 01644 420 211 mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk ww.kenbridgehotel.co.uk sponsored by EVERYTHING listed in the Glenkens Freecycle section is FREE - you just need to contact the owner and go and pick it up! If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch with Sarah on 07727 127 997 or email glenkens gazette@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. Various Dinatron music centre; records, radio and tapes. Nice piece of furniture, well lookedafter. Needs a good home. Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 (preferably evenings). 2 ceramic garden plant pots, light blue, approx. 1 foot high. Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 (preferably evenings). 27 volumes of the annual Galloway Cattle Society Herdbook. Earliest dated 1934 and latest 1976. Alan on 07769 680 938 Child’s booster seat (Kangaroo), really comfortable. Contact: 430 218 Chimney cowl - metal, hardly used. Contact: 430 218 Furniture Two 4-drawer filing cabinets. Contact: Diana on 07796 911 569 Small brass kindling/log box. 14’’ w x 12’’ d x12’’ h. Contact: Fiona on 07789 903 127. 2-tier wood effect tray trolley. Contact: Fiona on 07789 903 127. TV Unit. Handmade, wooden, with shelves for dvd player, sky box, etc and drawers. Contact: Sarah on 430 248 Wardrobe. Solid pine, 2-door, with mirror panel. In excellent condition. 7ft 2ins (H) 23ins (D) 70ins (W) . Item has been disassembled for ease of transportation. Contact: 420 839. Electronics 26” JVC TV with built-in Freeview. Contact: Davy on 01292 551 524 Overhead projector. Also some acetates that I don’t need anymore. Contact: Diana on 07796 911 569 Dell 948 printer. Printer, flatbed scanner and fax. Contact: Diana on 07796 911 569 Plants/Garden Home wanted for Japanese acer (I think). About five feet high. At present in large plastic pot, needs releasing into the ground. Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 (preferably evenings). garden cloches - long corrugated plastic on metal frames. Contact: 430 218 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 WANTED Set of 12 stair rod with clips. Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 (preferably evenings). Any second-hand shuttering or scaffold boards suitable for making raised vegetable beds. Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 (preferably evenings). Computer screen. Contact: 430 655 Car/garage jack and any old tools. Contact: Gareth on Small plastic tube about 4” long used to show pansies and violas at flower shows. Usually shown six in a pot of sand. If you have any of these to sell, please contact Louise on 07901 696 694. Pansy/viola showing tube I am looking for chains small and large lengths, winches, hand winches, cables, pulley systems. Would help me greatly as I only have full use of one arm, and pulleys, etc. will help me with things like logs and bags of coal, etc. Contact: Dave on 07547 134 276. Cleaners Required for large holiday house 07990 580 653 sponsored by More about wood; what is calorific value and how does it effect us and the wood we burn?’ The mystery that is calorific value! More and more of us are turning to wood fuel for our heating needs, and along with our choices of hard wood or soft wood, buying by the cubic meter, or the ton: a new term is being bandied about that should also inform our choice of purchase and that is ‘calorific value’. So what is it, what does it mean, and how should calorific value inform our purchase. At its most simple calorific value is the amount of heat produced when a substance, any substance be it oil, coal or wood, for example, is burnt in its entirety. The calorific value is usually expressed in kilojoules per kilogram. Each substance has its own calorific value. The calorific values of most substances are an approximation as many of the substances that we use on a daily basis to produce heat cannot be 100% pure and unadulterated. There is also further difference between the gross calorific value and the net calorific value of any substance. The difference, for the main part, is the water content factor. The gross calorific value includes the weight of the water content in the overall weight of the substance, whilst the net calorific value does not. What then does calorific value mean in real terms? Well, the calorific value of any substance is affected by its own natural moisture content. Just as man is 99% water, wood too is comprised of water. Each species of tree has different natural percentages of water content: at no time is the different water content more significant then when it is freshly cut. The result is that the average newly cut log has twice the water content, and therefore, obviously, half the energy producing capacity of a well seasoned log. If you are buying green (freshly) cut timber by weight you should be aware that a percentage of the weight will be the moisture (water) content of the species of the tree, and that this will represent less heat energy if used as is. The moisture content of each species differs significantly, for example, ash has one of the lowest moisture contents whilst poplar, although not the highest, has twice the natural moisture content of ash. The species of tree and the resulting moisture content will also have an effect on both price and the length of time at which logs should be considered seasoned. If you are considering harvesting your own wood, then remember that standing timber is driest in winter. So what of seasoned timber? It is interesting to note that research shows that the difference between calorific value of the seasoned timber of different species of trees is negligible. If you purchase 1 ton of softwood and 1 ton of hardwood the volume (or amount of room that they take up) will differ, but if different species of wood are dried to the same moisture content they will have the same calorific value. Sara McNeill A junior class (6 years to 14) and a senior class for the martial art of Tai Jitsu has started at Carsphairn Community hall. Junior is 6pm till 7pm Wednesday evening and Senior is 7pm till 8-30pm. Classes focus mainly on developing self respect and respect for others. It is essential that good character and self confidence is uppermost at any class, and that the self defence/self protection always is secondary. Self protection is different from self defence and they are both taught by me, David Birdsall. I have trained and taught for over 36 years. I also have a severe disability which developed ten years ago. The students will learn the basics of good natural posture and agility. No one is expected to be super strong or super agile. You just have to be who you are. Fitness will increase over time and regular gradings will take place. This also includes self assessment at each class, and will also apply to progress in real life. Aggression is not tolerated; neither is any form of bullying or racism/ discrimination. Students are expected to excel progressively within themselves alongside their ability and technique. All that is expected is that the person who comes to the class does so with an open mind, and is ready to learn a simple yet profound system that relies only upon natural strength and agility. I have published a book entitled the self defence manual. This is sold out and is now going to become an ebook available soon on the Internet. If you need any further information then please contact me on 07547 134 276. David Birdsall Glenkens Gazette page 6 A Good Catch Book Review by Serafina Green (6) I’ve just been reading an AMAZING book called Penny Dreadful Cooks Up A Calamity. I think 6 to 9 year olds would like this book by Joanna Nadin. It is about a little girl called Penelope and her plans never work the way she expected, but she never means to be naughty. One day Penny tries to saw Bridget Grimes in half but she gets stuck. Will Penny be able to turn over a new leaf? Will she be able to saw Bridget Grimes in half? Well read this book and you’ll find out. GO ON THIS BOOK WILL MAKE YOU SMILE! Cosmas Green’s Book Review Stuart Benson caught this enormous pike on Saturday 8 December on a still and frosty morning at Loch Ken. The fish weighed 25lb 11oz, and it is Stuart’s new personal best. Quite a catch! Are you a 7 to 12 year old who is a fan of cartoon features, doodle drawings and stories about annoying teachers? Then you’ll love Tom Gates Everything’s Amazing (sort of) by a talented author and illustrator, Liz Pichon. The book is about a school boy called Tom Gates who’s feeling embarrassed and annoyed by his arch-enemy Marcus. Tom uses his drawing skills and imagination to get him back.It’s such a funny story that you will laugh your head off. One bit of the book is really funny because Tom notices his teacher has a moustache; but his teacher is a woman! So go on read this book, now! And guess what? It’s a rib tickler. Cosmas Green (7) Mossdale Hall is delighted to have received a grant of £8243 from the lottery fund “Awards for All” The money is to be used to construct a landscaped picnic area near the Red Kite car park together with a slightly meandering path to connect this car park with the Village Hall car park. It is hoped that work will begin in April so that it can be in use for the summer season. The idea was originally thought up as a way to mark the Queen’s Jubilee but it proved impossible to go ahead with it last year. It is expected that there will be an official opening later in the year. Aileen McLeod MSP working for you across the South of Scotland Postal address: Unit 7 Loreburn Shopping Centre High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2BD Email: aileen.mcleod.msp@scottish.parliament.uk Tel: 01387 255 334 Please check www.aileenmcleod.org for regular surgery, constituency and parliamentary updates 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 7 on the Fringe Spring Fling 2013 Events Every festival these days has its Fringe and now Spring Spring Fling returns on the weekend of 25-27 May with a record 95 artists and craftworkers opening their studios to visitors across the region. The Glenkens are well represented both on the official programme and in the innovative Spring Fling Fringe. Among local artists inviting the public into their studios are photographer Allan Wright, at Parton Stables, Parton Estate, and photographer team Leeming Paterson, at Glenhoul Brae, Dalry. Alan specialises in classic and abstract landscape, advancing his craft by honing his “seeing eye”. At Dalry Ted and Morag are working on experimental landscape projects and offering miniworkshops. In Corsock glass worker Amanda Simmons and jeweller Natalie Vardey are opening their studios at Rosebank, Corsock. Amanda will have glass vessels, work in progress, and prints on show. Natalie will demonstrate how she uses traditional tools and skills to create functional jewellery. At Auchenhay Cottage, outside Corsock, two painters, Suzanne Stuart Davies and Malcolm Davies, will be showing through notebooks and work in progress how they are inspired by wildlife, archaeology and history. Many of the venues offer light refreshments, homebaking or picnic opportunities Meet the neighbours The “Neighbours” scheme introduced this year invites artists from neighbouring regions to join Spring Fling. Willow weaver Geoff Forrest will be making the short trip through the hills from Ayrshire to display his work and demonstrate his skill at The CatStrand, New Galloway. Fling has its satellite programme too, with several events being staged in the Glenkens. On Friday evening 24 May, at Dalry School, D&G Arts Festival and The CatStrand present Shooglenifty, “A supremely dexterous and witty band - a wild mix of trad talent and super funky phonics melding heritage and hedonism.” On Saturday 25 May The CatStrand will stage an evening of Wine, Cheese and Art Conversation in the company of artists and practitioners, covering such topics as how the landscape and culture of D&G inspires artists. Booking Essential. The Margaret Morris Movement group will stage a performance of “Aye Waulkin O” on Sunday 26 May 6pm-7.15pm (approx.) at Waukmill, 1 mile out of New Galloway on the A712 featuring choreography inspired by a softening of tweed song by Robert Burns, sung by Eddie Reader. This will be followed by a dance/movement workshop. Booking essential. In “Song of the Oak and the Ivy” and “Words AT the Edge” Wendy Stewart presents Corrina Hewat’s harp suite for 6, on Sunday 26 May, at 7pm in Corsock Village Hall. Lucy Harper, Angus Macmillan and Davie Douglas offer an innovative evocation of the River Urr in an interlinking cycle of songs and poems. Presented by D & G Arts Festival. Booking essential. Take the Spring fling bus! Mystery Bus Tours! Hop on at 10am at one of the designated locations and hop off again at the same location at around 5pm having visited at least five Spring Fling studios en route. Six tours will operate over the weekend. Early booking is recommended as tickets are limited. All tours start at 10am. Starting points include the CatStrand New Galloway. Glenkens Gazette page 8 Dalry’s Complementary Health Fair New! Cleaning service based in New Galloway and covering the Glenkens area. For a reliable service at a reasonable price, call Laura on: 07936219514 In mid January Dalry Town Hall hosted its first complementary health fair “to cheer up the winter blues”, which it definitely succeeded in doing. Despite bitterly cold conditions, it was very well attended and everyone who came along enjoyed the informal, welcoming atmosphere and the interesting range of affordable therapy tasters. Community information groups who were there included Indian Stewartry Self Management Programme Mindfulness for Health & Wellbeing A 10 week course, starting Tue 16 April, will be run in Dalry. The course is aimed at those over 50 with longterm health conditions, and those who care for someone over 50. To book a place call Morag on 01556 505 724 or email moragcurtis@nhs.net Bargatton Sand & Gravel Supplying sand and gravel for all your farming needs, as well as households and businesses both large and small. In Stock: Concrete sand, building sand, washed gravels including peagravel and 20-40mm draining gravel. £15 per tonne + VAT. Aggregate mix £15.50 per tonne + VAT. For further details contact: Angus Wilson, Quarry Manager - 07715 606 685 James Mair - 07793 085 243 Email: loch.bargatton@live.co.uk Bargatton Quarry, Laurieston, Castle Douglas, DG7 2PS Open 7 days Mon-Fri Weekends by arrangement Delivery can be arranged - subject to quantity head massage, reflexology, facial massage, Reiki, nail art, henna hand painting, shiatsu, Building Healthy Communities and Moxafrica. There were healthy refreshments and ‘naughty’ refreshments all made with love. The start up costs of the event was sponsored by the Glenkens Community Shop who offer grants to individuals and organisations for community development projects. By popular request the next Fair is planned for Saturday 20th April 11am - 3pm “to celebrate the joys of spring.” New therapists are already offering to join the existing team so there will be lots of choice. There will also be a range of health products on sale and an information table. There is no obligation to try a therapy. Admission is free, just come along and have a cup of tea, a chat, a cake and a look. Everyone warmly welcome. If you would like to participate as a therapist or would like more information contact Debra Hall 430013 or Jean Lockerbie 430454. Glenkens Gazette page 9 DALRY CLACHAN FAIR 9– 15 JUNE 2013 The details for the events for Clachan fair week this year have still to be finalised but this gives an indication of what will be happening; hopefully there will be something for everyone. Sun 9 Jun - Fun Show for Dogs Newfield, Clay Pigeon Shoot Competition, Fly Fishing Competition,Songs of Praise, Crowning of Lad & Lass. Mon 10 - Treasure Hunt. Tue 11 - Bingo Supper. Wed 12 - Quiz Night. Thu 13 - Pet Show, Bowling Club Competition. Fri 14 - Party in the Field, Water Fights/Custard Pie Fights and Fun games. Saturday 15: Parade Day 12.30pm, Car Boot and Variety of Stalls on Main Street: £5 and £15 (for Commercial stalls), Parade entries start assembling at Dalry School, 1pm : Judging of parade entries then parade sets off! 2pm : Field Events: Jim Hume MSP, Various fun and game stalls, Magician, Fire Brigade Display and Tai Jitsu Demonstration, Fun Team Games Competition and Tug O War, Mulloch Race and Beat the Goalie, Pony Rides. PM: Raffle Eve: Scottish Night, William Williamson and Green is for Golf The long winter has played havoc with the fixtures at New Galloway Golf Club, with the course being closed on a number of occasions due to heavy rain and snow. However, this didn’t stop Scott Jamieson from beating his elders as he became Winter League Champion 2013. There has been lots of work taking place on the course recently to improve the drainage which it is hoped will mean less closures of the course. The work has been done with grants from the Scottish Golf Union and the Kirkcudbrightshire Golfers Association. Although suffering from the bad weather, the course has actually come through the winter in a good state ����������������������������������������������������� • 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 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. Friends, Dalry Town Hall. Running Throughout the Week: Tennis Competition – prize-giving on Saturday. This information is subject to change so make sure you watch out for posters nearer the time. We’re always on the lookout for volunteers so if you feel you can help in any way, however small, or if you’d like to know more please contact Mike Kaye on 01644 430 162. and the greens are excellent for this time of year. Golf is a perfect holiday sport and New Galloway Golf Club welcomes visitors. However, we are a small club and need more members and visitors to survive in these severe financial conditions, so we are offering a day to ‘Give Golf a Go’ on Saturday 1 June from 10 am to 3 pm when anyone can come and experience what golf is all about - FOR FREE. Members will be on hand to help and explain the game of golf and refreshments will be available. You don’t have to bring any clubs as the club will provide them. Further information about the Golf Club and membership can be seen on the club’s website www.nggc.co.uk, or phone the Club Secretary on 01644 420 737. Glenkens Gazette page 10 Glenkens Gazette page 11 Glenkens Gazette page 12 Glenkens Gazette page 13 Glenkens Gazette page 14 There are so many exciting events on the horizon over the next two months at the CatStrand. The boys from Washington Irving are performing a special one-off show at the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory with Let’s Talk About Space on Friday 5 April. There will be an interactive show followed by star-gazing with full use of the Observatory’s facilities. On Friday 19 April the nominees for our Battle of the Bands will be thrashing it out to win a place at this year’s Knockengorroch World Ceilidh. It’s a great chance to discover new bands - come along and you can say you saw them here first! For fans of ragtime and country music, Rob Heron and the Tea Pad Orchestra will be performing a fusion of western and swing music on Friday 26 April. May is as vibrant this year as ever with the CatStrand’s involvement in established regional festivals. Shooglenifty will be thrilling us at Dalry School on Friday 24 May, in association with Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival, and our Spring Fling artist-inresidence Geoff Forrest will be on hand that weekend too, demonstrating his willow art and craftwork; you can even have a go yourself. We are also delighted to welcome the highly anticipated King Creosote to the CatStrand on Sunday 5 May. Book your tickets early for your chance to see him at this very rare and intimate gig. Shooglenifty CatStrand Highlights Pick up a programme for full listings, or to book tickets call 01644 420 374 or visit www.catstrand.com CatStrand Youth Players Report The Stewartry Drama Festival was held on 21–23 February and once again resulted in victory for the CatStrand Youth Players with their production of ‘LittleBro Morning and BigSis Afternoon’ by Mike Tibbetts. They not only won the Youth section of the festival but also the trophy for highest marks in production and were voted the audience’s joint-favourite. The play now goes forward to represent the Stewartry District at the West of Scotland Finals at the Eastwood Park Theatre in Glasgow on 16 March. This is the third time in the last four years that the Youth Players have reached this stage of the Scottish Community Drama Association’s national competition, and with a runner-up slot in the last two appearances everyone is hoping that it will be third time lucky this year, and a first ever appearance at the Scottish Finals in June can be achieved! ‘LittleBro’ is one of the biggest challenges the Youth Players have undertaken but the cast certainly rose to the challenge. The play was written to be performed by a cast of adults but the young cast fulfilled all of the roles brilliantly with the adjudicator, Michael Emans, commenting that he had seen the play performed by adult casts before but they did not achieve the levels of intensity and emotion that was achieved by this young but very talented cast. The main roles were played by Zoe Kirkpatrick, Eleanor Jones, Lowena Lindsay and Oliver McTurk who was making his first appearance at a drama festival. They were ably backed up by Jordan Pears, Cameron Lindsay, Hannah Daly and Lauren McKinna in the supporting roles. The other festival entry this year was ‘Ghost Writer’ by Nick Warburton which also received a very good adjudication. The cast included all of the younger members supported by some of the more experienced members, the main roles were played by Eilidh Stalker, Eilidh Thomson and Maia Smyth. Throughout the play, the audience were enjoying the comedy moments and the adjudicator praised the excellent teamwork and comedy timing on display from such a young cast. He felt that the cast were enjoying the play just as much as the audience were and that was just as it should be! Both plays were presented again at the CatStrand on 1st March to a very appreciative full house. The Youth Players would like to thank everyone for their support and for all the congratulations and good wishes received since the performances at the festival. Glenkens Gazette page 15 Kells pay tribute to Burns Kells Primary held the school’s annual Burns Supper recently. The evening was hosted by the pupils of P7. Invited guests, pupils, staff, parents and families were treated to speeches and entertainment that was provided by P5, P6 and P7 pupils. Erin McGaw and Amberleigh Hackwood – Williams delivered the welcome address and introduced the guests and speakers. The Selkirk Grace was then recited by Oliver McTurk. Hannah Grieve then carried in the haggis to the skirl o’ the pipes played by Mr Glen Cunningham. This was followed by Kyle Kirkpatrick and Oliver McTurk reciting the Address tae a Haggis. P6 pupils helped serve the traditional meal of haggis, neeps and tatties to the guests. After the supper Poppy Brown and Mia Walker delivered the Immortal Memory. The Toast tae the Lassies was presented by Freddie Grimwood and Kyle Kirkpatrick. This was followed by the Lassies Reply, which was made by Kelsie Marshall and Hannah Grieve. After the traditional speeches the P5-7 choir sang Loch Lomond and Flower of Scotland. Florrie Newbery, Georgiana Grinmwood, Jasmin Adam and Yelena Wolffe then recited some Scots verse. Dalry Primary Music Festival Successes Shared Reading, Sharing Books; Carsphairn P-1’s Start Strong Dalry Primary had a very successful week last week at the Galloway Music festival. In the Group Music Making category P5/6/7 took 1st place with their composition of Stomp Goes Green. This was a piece that the children had created themselves and added their own rhythms and instruments using recycled materials. The overall effect was highly praised. P3/4 took part in the Creative Music Category with their composition of Farming Galloway. Again this was a piece that the children created themselves, using their own poetry supported by very creative instrumental accompaniments to create the effect of the daily sounds on a farm. P1/2 took part in the Action Song and Singing games category and were praised for their ‘high quality singing’. There were also a number of solo entries for voice and viola. Within the beginners vocal solos category P6 pupil James Wallace took 1st place. Depute Head Teacher Annette Craig said “The children all performed to a very high standard and were a credit to the school.” A very enjoyable evening was concluded with everyone singing Auld Lang Syne. With all the Christmas festivities over, the children at Carsphairn are starting the new term. Beginning this term the P-1’s have begun their reading program with a bang, working with the Scottish National Book Trust! The P7’s have been trained up with special reading and drama skills that help make books more exciting for new readers. Each P-7 has been paired with a partner in P-1, to introduce them into the fun world of reading. Siblings Jamie and Jessica Dovaston are already Pupil Librarians at Carsphairn and have been working very closely with school librarian Jane Banner. They were very excited to welcome Crawford King and Naomi McCreath into the fold. Three books, by three different children’s authors, were selected by the Scottish National Book Trust to introduce to P-1’s across Scotland to reading. In pairs, each book was read and discussed over January and February. Once all three books were read, the project concluded with everyone involved placing a vote for their favourite book. The votes from all across Scotland will be tallied up before World Book Day (March 7) to determine which book will be Scotland’s new favourite Children’s Book. As a final bonus, each of the P-1’s was gifted all three books, to take home to add to their book collection. Everyone involved with the project has enjoyed it and will hopefully start the P-1 readers at Carsphairn off on the right foot, with a little help from their friends. Glenkens Gazette page 16 Dumfries & Galloway Canine Rescue tenth birthday celebrations Dumfries & Galloway Canine Rescue celebrated its tenth birthday by having ten parties in different town halls, Dalry being one of them. As honoury members of the charity Helen & Eric Broadhurst were delighted to host the party. Dalry village did not disappoint, local businesses, a local talented artist, villagers who no longer owned dogs and people who train their dogs at Real Dog Training classes who could not attend, all donated raffle prizes. The raffle raised £50.00 The party was well attended by people and dogs who know how to have a good time ! The Spud & Spoon race was won by Margaret & Katie the Westie (Dundrennan) Hunt The sausage was won by Jackie & Mac the Lab cross (Dalry) - No surprise their Mac! Musical chairs was won by Ewan & Cassie the Lab cross (Dalry) Waggiest Tail was won by Gary & Shadow the Lab cross (Dalry) Mike and his trio of labraddodles from Auldgirth won “ Portrait of your pet” raffle prize. On behalf of the charity Helen & Eric would like to thank everybody involved, especially Kathy who helped with the games, making it a fun and successful day. The total amount raised from this event was £120.57 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 Glenkens Gazette page 17 issue’s winner is Photo of the Issue This ‘Dawn in the Glenkens’ by John McBeth. John wins a meal for two at Pringle’s in Corsock. Next issue’s winner will recieve a meal for two at the Ken Bridge Hotel. We would like to thank all the local eateries who have generously donated prizes for our photo competition. The Ken Bridge Hotel gets a special thanks, as it will be sponsoring the Gazette’s Photo of the Issue competition from next issue onwards, and will choose themes and judge photos accordingly. We will keep entries on file and if they suit a future theme/season, they will be re-considered next time. Rosemary Gascoyne 1930 – 2012 Rosemary Gascoyne was a well known painter and personality in Dumfries and Galloway. Moving from Brighton twenty years ago she combined running a gallery, first in Creetown then in Gatehouse, with her own practice. Latterly she lived and worked in Dalry. The memorial and selling exhibition in Castle Douglas Art Gallery 4th – 14th April 2013 is drawn from her own and her son Ian’s collection. There are examples of Rosemary’s work from all periods of her life. She was a highly accomplished painter who exhibited regularly and had an appreciative following. Many of her paintings are in public and private collections. She had an important and well received retrospective exhibition of her work at the Gracefield Arts Centre, Dumfries in 2005. Coming late to painting, she was in her mid forties before attending art school, she felt driven to work with unusual commitment and dedication. She was fortunate in her tutors at Brighton College of Art where she completed her degree. Jack Smith and Chis le Brun, two highly respected painters with international reputations gave her the support and confidence she needed to develop her skills and talents. Key to her style was her understanding and awareness of colour and form. Each painting was a new adventure, she didn’t repeat herself. Her paintings are broadly abstract but nature, the landscape and still-life were her sources of inspiration and you can see the rhythms and patterns of these phenomena underlying her work. The exhibition is a celebration of her artistic career and a unique opportunity to see the extent and range of her practice. A new website of her work has just been launched. www.rosemarygascoyne.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 18 CatStrand Burns Supper 2013 Tickets were sold out for the Burns Supper on Saturday 9 February and the capacity crowd enjoyed a great evening’s entertainment in honour of Scotland’s bard. Chairman Brian Edgar welcomed everyone and introduced the top table guests before asking everyone to stand to welcome the haggis which was piped in by George Galloway, carried by Aaron Edgar and enthusiastically addressed by the chairman himself. A traditional supper was then served and enjoyed by everyone. Afterwards, the audience settled down to enjoy a wonderful selection of speeches and entertainment which you would have been hard pushed to better anywhere. Alex Fergusson MSP proposed the Immortal Memory in his own inimitable style, at times very humorous but heartfelt nonetheless. Many speakers treat the Immortal Memory as a lecture and their annual opportunity to ‘educate’ the masses but Alex has the knack of entertaining his audience first and foremost without losing sight of the ultimate aim Photo - from left to right: George Galloway (Piper), Robin Wallace (Toast to the Lassies & Recitation - Holy Wullie’s Prayer), Alex Fergusson MSP (Immortal Memory), Brian Edgar (Chairman & Address to the Haggis), Jane Davidson (Reply to of the speech. A thoroughly enjoyable evening was had by all and was summed up by some of the comments received afterwards – “Thank you for a wonderful evening, certainly the best Burns Supper we have ever been at!” “An excellent supper, brilliant entertainment and great company” “Please book us in for next year” What is Margaret Morris Movement? Margaret Morris (1891-1980) was a pioneer of modern dance and movement in the 20th century. Margaret created a form of dance that addressed both the creative and health needs of her students. In its infancy it was a progressive dance technique and today it remains relevant in addressing many of the health and wellbeing needs of contemporary life. pointe. We develop good abdominal muscles which are necessary for poise. Balance & Co-ordination: In MMM balance is taught progressively from the simplest co-ordination in lying, to sitting and standing till movements involving complex co-ordination can be performed at ease. Relaxation: Relaxation is also essential for well being. Some dance exercises are specifically designed to teach conscious and full relaxation. Dance & Creativity: MMM is above all Dance. We dance at the same time as taking care of our bodies. Exploring music phrases and rhythms play an important role in each class. Posture & Breathing: Good posture is essential for optimum health and many of the dance exercises are designed to promote body alignment. Footwork & Control: Travelling well across a dance space is MMM believes anyone who wants to dance can! key. This begins with normal walking-very free and New adult dance class begin on Monday 15 transferring the body weight progressively forward. April from 2.30-3.30pm at the CatStrand, New MMM walking exercises help development good foot Galloway. Contact Sara Lockwood on 01556 control and skilled foot placement. We explore different 612854 or sara.lockwood@sky.com rhythms and floor patterns, as well as developing our leg muscles and ultimately THEto STEWARTRY leading overall VETERINARY CENTRE body control and Dalry CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS placement as we Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm dance. Sat 2-2.30 pm FHB Fencing Poise & DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm Flexibility:Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm Lengthening our FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES body we stand OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY tall as we dance allowing us to 01556 502263  The Fleet Fish van is in the Glenkens poise on demiVETERINARY SURGERY on Tuesdays & Wednesdays every OAKWELL ROAD week. Anyone wishing me to call, CASTLE DOUGLAS please phone Mary on above mobile no. Domestic and Agricultural Fencing 01644 430 495 (Peter) or 07767 795 498 (Jonathan) Glenkens Gazette Moniaive Folk Festival May 10th -12th May 2013 Dumfries and Galloway This brilliant weekend celebration of music, song and dance, set in the rural Scottish village with a big attitude , has gained a reputation over the years for punching well above its weight in line up, atmosphere and sessions, its intimate campus style setting being a unique feature. The eclectic line up for this, its 12th year has an opening concert featuring village choir Cairn Chorus led by Ali Burns, followed by instrumental fireworks from local boy Pete Garnett and classical maestro Greg Lawson , better known to some as almost half of Moishe`s Bagel. Making a welcome return to the festival is young Scots singer Alistair Ogilvy, this time with his band and the concert will be brought to a close by the sheer musical magic of Bring in the Spirit. This is a super group of some of the most talented and respected musicians in Scotland today including Rod Paterson, Pete Clark and Marc Duff along with Kirsten Easdale and Gregor Lowry. Their sparkling music will include everything from Burns songs to Neil Gow fiddle jigs and you can carry on jigging at the ceilidh in the Masonic Hall later . This mix of visiting artists and committed festival goers will feed into the many sessions that carry on throughout the weekend in the pubs, cafes, around the campsite, under the cherry tree and in any available space that is unlocked ! Saturday is jam packed with workshops (from song to fiddle), piping competitions, children`s events (Michael Angelo, Stripey Dog), an open stage concert, the Green Tea Room rolling performance programme and a grand street parade. Evening brings the main marquee concert starting with a short blast from another festival favourite The John Langan Band, who are really making a name for themselves in southern parts and have just recorded a new CD. Shelagh McDonald is a name some may recognize from the 70s when she recorded with members of Fairport Convention. After a long absence from the music scene Moniaive Folk Festival is honoured to hear her beautiful voice and distinctive songwriting skills again. Another wonderful woman is Corrina Hewat and her band line up features her own wonderful singing and harp playing alongside such luminaries of the folk/jazz world as Fraser Fifield and David Milligan. Our final act of the main concert are Session A9 who Dougie Maclean described as being ‘The best band to have come out of Scotland in 100 years’. With not just one but three high energy fiddlers – Charlie McKerron, Gordon Gunn and Adam Sutherland – backed by the legendary powerhouse of Brian McAlpine, Marc Clements and ‘Chimp’ Robertson, they have just been named ‘ Best Live Act’ at the Scottish Trad Music Awards. The legendary Late Night Extra at the Institute will feature a full set from the John Langan Band followed by World Beats from the fabulous Jo Hodges. A few hours after the last dancers and sessioners drink up their cocoa it will be time for the Sunday Singaround Brunch hosted by Cairn Chorus and festival guests - bring along your brekkie and join in a chorus with crumbs ! The rest of the day can be spent sampling a slow session, open stage, Sunday afternoon concert, taking in a shadow puppet show and workshop (Clydebuilt Puppets) before sampling a final festival curry and evening session up close to the John Langan Band. Moniaive village provides the setting for a real community folk festival, come and hear it for yourself! www.moniaivefolkfestival.oc.uk page 19 Dalry Community Council Update At the end of January, Dumfries and Galloway Council published the proposed Local Development Plan. Consisting of over 230 pages, the plan guides the future use and development of land in the towns, villages and rural areas of Dumfries and Galloway. Dalry’s Community Council studied the plan in depth and made representations to the council in early March. It would be impossible to summarise the entire plan in this space, but it is worth noting that the plan’s Vision of what Dumfries and Galloway will look like in 20 years time includes the following: vibrant towns and villages that have more businesses and people working from home, more opportunities to meet locally arising affordable housing needs, housing developments of a scale appropriate to their location, high quality, affordable housing, a range of services and facilities that help support the local community. Information about Dalry Community Council is regularly posted on the notice board outside the Post Office, including dates of future meetings to which anyone interested is welcome to attend. Glenkens Gazette CONVENTICLE In 1978 when the Forestry Commission were ploughing land in preparation for tree planting up in the hills to the south-west of Clatteringshaws Loch they exhumed the bodies of two presumed Covenanters buried side by side. A short distance away they unearthed the body of a soldier, recognised by his long military boots. At the time the discovery was not publicised out of concern that doing so could disrupt planting operations. The bodies were reburied and out of respect the area immediately around them was levelled off and left unplanted. In August 2011 I rediscovered this site, just south of the Palfern Burn, to the west of Loch Grannoch. Right in the centre of the unplanted area is an upstanding granite cobble which is presumed to mark where the two bodies were reburied. A Conventicle is planned for Sunday 28th April at 3 pm at this site, to dedicate a small granite memorial stone inscribed ‘Covenanter Martyrs’. To get to the service location it is possible to drive up a forestry track to the top of the hill with an ordinary vehicle, along a track starting immediately south of the car park for the Red Deer Park. But then there is a roughly 15 minute walk down a forest ride and then along the side of the Palfern Burn for a few hundred yards over rather rough tussocky terrain. The service is not recommended for those who are unfit or unsure on their feet. If some people would Cllr Finlay Carson Castle Douglas & Glenkens for an appointment Tel: 07825 633 185 or email: finlay@finlaycarson.co.uk www.finlaycarson.co.uk page 20 prefer not to take their cars off the main road, and to limit the number of vehicles gong up the track, it might be best to meet at the Red Deer Park car park at 2.30 pm so that we can share vehicles. For further information phone me on 430380. David Bartholomew Pancake Lunch Balmaclellan & Kells Guild held their 16th Pancake Lunch on Shrove Tuesday, February 12. As always, the event was well supported and everyone enjoyed their savoury and sweet pancakes. This year the event was in aid of the Red Cross with a Tombola and Stall in aid of Guild funds. At the Guild meeting on March 13 the speaker was Miss Anne Carstairs, Organiser for the Stewartry Branch of the Red Cross. Miss Carstairs gave a most interesting talk about the Charity with a summary of how it was founded and the various aspects of the work done today. Mrs Primrose Morrison then presented her with a cheque for £375. The Guild would like to thank everyone who supported the event. GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL  01644 420234  Yird Muin Starn: Earth Moon Star... This original occasion was hosted by two artists, Mandy Mackintosh & Kaffe Mathews, from Glasgow and London respectively who had spent up to 2 years collaborating to create this work described by them as ‘very simple..made..so that people might come out into a very cold dark place and look up. ..They made Space Suits, Sky gazers and an album of cosmological music. The idea for Dark Skies Galloway was from Keith Muir of Forestry Commission. The Galloway Space suits are made out of Ventile,the toughest and most naturally durable weatherproof material available on our planet. Space is very cold. The design of the suits comes from a Samurai undergarment.....They can be seen and are for hire at Catstrand, for your star gazing expedition. The Star gazers, cut from a single oak tree are jointed using traditional Japanese dwelling techniques. They are inspired by the angle and form of a Victorian astronomy chair in Greenwich Observatory. White Laggan Bothy , grid ref. NX 466775, OS Landranger map 77, is where you’ll find the Star gazers. If you have not yet been there, turn right past Clatteringshaws Loch dam wall, and keep going along a single track road until you can go no further. Then walk or cycle, beside Loch Dee. Note the road needs care at present,due to surface damage. Have fun! June Glenkens Gazette page 21 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN Glenkens and the Daunting of the Douglases Next year marks the 700th anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn. For loyal service the victorious Robert Bruce rewarded his lieutenant, ‘the good’ Sir James Douglas with a grant of the regality of Buittle. In 1369, Bruce’s son, David II granted to Douglas’s son, Archibald the Grim, ‘all our existing lands in Galloway between the Cree and the Nith’. He thus created the Stewartry of Kirkcudbright so called because Archibald appointed a steward to manage his considerable estates, an official who was also often the keeper of Threave Castle. When Archibald later purchased the earldom of Wigtown he became Lord of Galloway. The Gordons who had been resident since 1300 had already acquired lands in what are now the four Glenkens parishes. In 1358 they were granted the lordship, administration and safekeeping of the new Forest of Glenkenne., furthering their powerbase by becoming Douglas clients. Scottish kings favoured a system of devolution by which powerful subordinates were given almost regal powers in areas considered remote or difficult to control, or 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 jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk both. The trouble was that the descendants of royal favourites might be at daggers drawn with their monarchs within a couple of generations. One such was Archibald the Grim, who acquired estates far beyond the south-west. Scots Law did not fully operate in Galloway until 1426 but Archibald repealed some of the old laws, while protecting others, which he could exploit to his own advantage. He became third Earl of Douglas, rebuilding Threave Castle where he died in 1400. 25 years later the 7th Earl of Douglas was James the Gross so named for his corpulence; when he died it was said that his body contained ‘4 stane of tallow and mair’ that is, 56 pounds of fat, enough to make a fair batch of candles. He continued his family’s insatiable appetite for land. His son, William succeeded as 8th Earl, marrying his cousin, Margaret the Fair Maid of Galloway. He grandly styled himself ‘William, Earl of Douglas and Avondale, Great Guardian of the kingdom of Scotland, and Prince and Lord of Galloway’. His power and possessions rivalled those of his young king, James II, who gave him safe conduct to visit Stirling Castle and then murdered him. By 1455 the Black Douglases were a lost cause. The king marched into Galloway to destroy Threave. According to tradition, McKim the blacksmith of Buchan Croft, Carlingwark, manufactured a huge cannon which he supplied with large granite cannonballs each the weight of ‘a Carsphairn cow’, to reduce the castle. Another shot supposed ripped off the hand of the Fair Maid of Galloway as she drank her wine. We are on surer historical ground in noting the many lands the Douglases lost when they were forfeited. It is not certain how many landholders, like the Gordons, survived, but it is probable that some, closely identified with the Lords of Galloway, lost out. Andrew McCulloch in his History of Galloway has helpfully mapped the concentration of Glenkens properties included in the forfeiture. The names of these holdings still exist. They include places well up into the hills such as Castlemaddy, Largvey, Clenrie, Largmore and Drumbuie. Closer to modern Clatteringshaws Loch are Garrary and Craigenbay. On either side of the Ken are Barskeoch and Earlstoun, and closer to New Galloway, Fintloch. Placenames with the element ‘’Bal’ are now known to be 15th century. There is an interesting clutch in the then recently named, Balmaclellan parish, signalling a revival in the fortunes of the Maclellans (Clan Connan): Balmaclellan itself, Cubbox, Ironlosh, Lowes, Caldow, Bartaggart, Barlay, Cassenevey, Corse, Low Park and Craig. Many of these placenames are, of course, Gaelic in origin, and so much older than the 15th century, part of Glenkens’ rich heritage. Ted Cowan Glenkens Gazette page 22 APRIL & MAY APRIL Wed 3, Open Stage 7.30pm, CatStrand Thurs 4 – Sun 14, Rosemary Gascoyne: Memorial and Selling Exhibition, Castle Douglas Art Gallery, see p17 Fri 5, Let’s Talk about Space, 7.30pm, The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory Wed 10, Film: The Hobbit, 7.30pm, CatStrand 10 week course starting Tue 16 April, Stewartry Self Management Programme; Mindfulness for Health & Wellbeing, Dalry. See p8. Fri 19, Battle of the Bands, 7pm, CatStrand Wed 17, 2pm, Rural Meeting - Local History by Prof. Cowan, New Galloway Town Hall Wed 24, Chrys Salt & Mary Smith, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 25, Cream o’ Galloway; ‘The Story So Far’, Loch Arthur, see p9 Fri 26, Rob Heron and the Tea Pad Orchestra, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 27, Plant & Bake Sale, 10.30am, St Margaret’s Church, New Galloway. Funds raised will go to Castle Douglas Hospital League of Friends. MAY Wed 1, Geo Bus - Dr Kathryn Roper, 7pm, CatStrand Sun 5, King Creosote, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 10, Tricky Hat: Unusual Places to Dance, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 10 – Sun 12, Moniaive Folk Festival, see p19 Wed 15, 2pm, Rural Meeting Cities of South America by Peter Marsden, New Galloway Town Hall Thu 10, Louise Welsh, 7.30pm, CatStrand Mon 20, Bruce Molsky, 7.30pm, CatStrand Thurs 23 – Sun 26, Knockengorroch World Ceilidh Festival, see back page Fri 24, Shooglenifty, 7.30pm, Dalry School Fri 24, Cheese Making, Cream o’ Galloway, see p9 Sat 25 – Mon 27, Spring Fling, various studios around the Glenkens and the rest of the region. See p7 Sat 25, Wine, Cheese and Art Conversation, 7-10pm, CatStrand Sun 26, Margaret Morris Movement performance of ‘Aye Waulkin O’, 6-7.15pm, Waukmill (1 mile out of New Galloway on the A712), see p 18 Sun 26, ‘Song of the Oak and the Ivy’ and ‘Words at the Edge’ with Wendy Stewart pand Corrina Hewat, 7pm, Corsock Village Hall. See p7 Fri 31, Film: The Quartet, 7.30pm, CatStrand JUNE Sat 1, Carsphairn Show, see back page & p3 Sat 1, ‘Give Golf a Go’, 10am3pm, see p9 SPRING FLING TOURS TO DEPART FROM THE CATSTRAND The minibuses for visits to a variety of studios and exhibitions across Dumfries and Galloway in connection with this years Spring Fling will start and finish at the CatStrand, giving local people a great advantage as they will not need to travel to the designated ‘pick–up’ points. On Saturday 25 May one tour will be visiting the area near Portpatrick and the other Moniaive; on Sunday 26 May the Drumlanrig area will be visited, along with the Solway Coast around Rockcliffe. On Monday 27 May tours will be to Newton Stewart/Glentrool, with the second vehicle covering the Langholm/ Eskdalemuir area. Tickets for all trips are £10 per person, and this year tickets will be on sale at the CatStrand. Please support this event for which GTI now provide all the transport and drivers. DATES FOR OTHER TRIPS: WEDNESDAY 17TH APRIL 2013 - THE LAKE DISTRICT. SUNDAY 5TH MAY 2013 – GARDEN of COSMIC SPECULATION- near Dumfries – this amazing and unique garden is only open once a year and is situated at Holywood near Dumfries – (Details/pictures on website) admission is £6 in aid of Cancer Research. This trip will be an afternoon trip only and the charge for the transport will be £2.50 per person. FRIDAY 17TH MAY 2013 – An evening trip to Hamilton Races with the Red Hot Chilli Pipers providing live after race entertainment. SEE LOCAL POSTERS FOR FULL DETAILS OF ALL TRIPS. 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 Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) bus or for more information please contact keith cooper, GTI Administrator, on 01644 420 374. Glenkens Gazette page 23 REGULAR EVENTS CatStrand (New Galloway): Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am Margaret Morris Movement Adult Dance Class, Mon, 2.30-3.30pm, contact Sara on 01556 612854, see p18 Children’s Dance Class: Mon during term time, 3.45-4.45pm age 3-7, 4.30-5.30pm age 8-15 Carers Coffee & Chat: Tues, 10am-12noon Teen Spirit: Tues during term time, 7-8:30pm (P7 - S3) and 8-9:30pm (S3+, Duke of Edinburgh) 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 Zumbatomic, last Sat each month,10-10.45am Catstrand Youth Players: Sun during term time, 2pm Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, last Sun of the month, 2-4pm Glenkens Community Centre (Dalry): (contact Kath 430 281) Glenkens Children’s Club: Mon & Fri, 9.15-11.45am Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm & 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: Thurs, 79pm Thursday Craft Group: Thurs, 24pm Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm Guides: Tue during term-time, 6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281 Various Locations: Texas Hold ‘em Poker, Mon, 7.15pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.4511.15am, New Galloway Town Hall Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Dog Training: Tue & Wed, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. Contact: Eric 460 670 Tai Jitsu: Wed, Junior Class (age 6-14), 6-7pm; Senior Class, 78.30pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn, contact David on 07547 134 276, see p5 Wednesday Quiz Night, Wed, 8.30pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Glenkens Community Councils Balmaclellan Community Council Meetings: Last Monday each month, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall. Carsphairn Community Council Meetings: Last Monday each month, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn. Dalry Community Council Meetings: 1st Monday each month, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. New Galloway & Kells Community Council Meetings: 2nd Monday each month, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall. Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library. CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon: 1st. Carsphairn: 10.30am: 1st,2nd,3rd,4th. Dalry(Apr) 12 noon: 1st,3rd,4th. Dalry(Apr): 10.30am: 2nd. Dalry(May):9.00am: 1st, 3rd,4th. Kells: 10.30am: 2nd(May),3rd,4th,5th. Special Services/Events: 26 Apr 7.30 pm, Quiz Night, Dalry Town Hall. 28 Apr, 3 pm Conventicle (see p. ) Communion Services: 5 May, 12 noon, 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 Over £1,200 raised for charities St Margaret’s Church Ladies Guild organised a series of Lent Lunches in order to raise money for charity. With generous support from members and friends of the church, well over £1,200 was raised which will be divided between the following six organisations: Sports for Special Needs, the Alexandra Unit (DGI), ME Research UK, SSAFA, Crossroads and Combat Stress. 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 Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Folk Music Session: 1st Sat each month, 8pm, The Clachan Inn, Dalry 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 Dalry Library (Tel: 430 234) Opening Times: 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 please phone. ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 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 TO THE HILLS This year’s Knockengorroch World Ceilidh is set to be another belter. The renowned Glenkens-based roots music festival, established in 1998, has become known nation-wide for its friendly, family atmosphere and eclectic music line-up. Some of the music on offer at the 2013 festival will be the unique sounds of worldrenowned artists Asian Dub Foundation, Dizraeli and the Small Gods, Breabach (winner of the Scottish Folk Band of the Year at the 2012 Trad Awards) and four-time Grammy award nominated Texan Cedric Watson & Bijou Creole. The well-established festival will page 24 take place from 23 to 26 May in its usual stunning location among the hills and glens of Carsphairn, and will present not only music but also arts and activities from all corners of the globe. One of the organisers, Katriona Holmes, said: “We’re really excited by the incredible array of talent we have joining us this year at Knockengorroch. As well as brilliant music acts there will be dance, theatre, multimedia and comedy; happy kids making things, workshops in all manner of new skills, good food, a healing area, a sauna, fire shows, world cinema and lots more. “It’s brilliant to have so many Cedric Watson and Bijou Creole Glenkens Gazette inspiring artists join us in our wee glen, and we look forward to welcoming festy-goers from all across Scotland and the rest of the world to enjoy our exceptional event in the hills!” Advance tickets are available from the Knockengorroch website www.knockengorroch. org.uk - family and concession tickets are available. And remember, the winner of the CatStrand’s Battle of the Bands will be featuring at this year’s festival, so keep your eyes and ears peeled! Carsphairn Show Saturday 1st June Show opens at 8am with the Sheepdog Trial, Sheep Judging starts at 10am, Pet Show at 2pm followed by Dog Classes, Children’s Sports and Hill Race, etc. 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: MON 6 MAY 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 75 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_075 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 2013 Description An account of the resource Editor: Sarah Ade https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/222/GlenkensGazette76.pdf ed683d5f7135e096199fab7501d2cd8f 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 76 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry June/July 2013 ISSUE 76 FREE Fond Farewell to Gazette Founder Left to right: Mathew Newton, new owner Lindsey Forbes, Gill Newton Dalry shopkeeper and founder of the Glenkens Gazette, Matthew Newton, and his wife Gill, are moving to Aberdeen at the beginning of July. Since their arrival in Dalry nearly 18 years ago, they have been involved with every aspect of community life and they will be sorely missed. Neither Matthew nor Gill had any experience of running a retail outlet, but after being made redundant from the NHS Matthew decided the time had come to fulfil a life-long dream of being selfemployed, and so started the search for a village shop to run. Having looked all over Scotland, they decided that the shop in Dalry that Mr Kerr was selling fitted the bill, and they took over the business in September 1995. A steep learning curve followed, made easier according to Gill by the excellent staff and patient customers! However, that first winter was very testing when the extremely bad weather deprived them of water and power for over a week and made it almost impossible to get supplies in for the village. Luckily, a massive truck with snow tracks from their main supplier managed to get through. Their children, Imogen and Sean, both attended Dalry School and Gill has high praise for the way the school helped them both settle in. For Imogen in particular it was a big change from her High School in Glasgow, where she was one of 1200 pupils. Both children took advantage of the many clubs and groups, with Sean enjoying football and Imogen joining the youth drama group. A proud moment for them all was when the group’s play ‘Dream Jobs’ won against stiff competition from adult groups at the Stewartry Drama Festival. By Nicolette Wise, continued on page 6... CORE PATHS UP AND RUNNING This year saw the One hundred of these key paths can now be found crossing the region, with nine of them in the Glenkens itself, geared for the use of all outdoor users - hill walkers, cyclists and horse riders. D&G Council was obliged under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act of 2003 to locate and investigate a number of key or main paths in the region that would provide the public with routes that fulfilled a variety of objectives: functional, educational and recreational. The routes would be primarily off-road and would promote, for Photo by Bob Peace adoption of the Core Paths Plan for Dumfries and Galloway (D&G). example, safer access to school or a route to a particular place of interest. It also gave landowners the means to manage and navigate outdoor users through their land, while at the same time recognising the general public’s right of responsible access or ‘right to roam’. The research started in 2006 when the D&G’s Outdoor Access Service kicked off the Core Paths plan by consulting with Community Councils, landowners and the general public. Communities and individuals were asked to mark maps with the routes which they used or wished to use. Some of the paths suggested were already physically there and were in use, but some new paths were proposed. By Sara McNeill, continued on page 2... A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve www.glenkensgaze�e.co.uk Glenkens Gazette Continued from front page... Each was assessed according to specific criteria including natural hazards, state of repair and relevance to the ‘Core Paths Plan’ objectives. This year these paths have been made a legal entity in themselves. It should be pointed out though that they are not owned by the Council and remain at all times in the ownership of the landowner through whose land the paths pass. There is a variety of walks all with different types of paths and through different landscapes, of varying distances and requiring different levels of fitness. One of page 2 the conditions of becoming a core path was the ability of the path to be brought up to a suitable standard, and all efforts will be made to ensure that the paths are both passable and navigable. To assure your safety and wellbeing in walking, cycling or horse riding along these routes it is essential to remember that the land which you are traversing provides the local landowner with a livelihood. You have to be aware and accept that the outdoors cannot be made risk-free. This includes not only making sure that you have the right fitness level for the walk, but also wearing the appropriate clothing and footwear as well as carrying maps, food, water, and a mobile phone. Look out for signage as you may well be entering an area where shooting is taking place or cows are calving; it is always better to avoid areas with young livestock, especially if you have a dog with you. Dogs must be kept under control on short leads. The Core Paths Plan can be viewed in all libraries and Customer Service Centres in Dumfries and Galloway. Alternatively, the routes are available online at www.dumgal.gov.uk/corepaths For more information on access rights, please visit: www.outdooraccess-scotland.com CORE PATHS AROUND CARSPHAIRN In this and future issues of the Gazette we will feature Core Paths in different parts of the Glenkens. In this edition we focus on the Carsphairn area. The Carsphairn Community Council area is nearly 100 square miles. A lot of the Core Paths routes, as mentioned in the front page feature, are already established and used, and indeed those who know this tranquil and remoter area of the Glenkens may already be familiar with them. Those who frequent our award-winning Heritage Centre will definitely recognise the routes as some of the Centre’s former Heritage Walks. The area is so ideal for the project that the Core Paths have been split in to two. The first area of paths are to be found off the A713 and the second off the less central B729 (known locally as the back road between Carsphairn and Moniaive). There are six centrally located Core Paths: Upper Deugh Trail, Knockengorroch Trail, Holm and Garryhorn Trail, Cairnsmore Trail, Knockgrey Trail, and the Dundeugh Trail. The first four walks are to be found north of the village on both sides of the A713. The Upper Deugh and Knockengorroch trails are appropriate for both walkers, cyclists and horse riders. It is a mixture of tarmac and forestry tracks that takes in an ancient burial cairn, wild moorland and with an Ordnance Survey map one can discover the remains of an area that used to be more densely populated. The Holm and Garryhorn Trail is a fascinating walk that takes you through a landscape that played an important part in not just local history but in the history of Scotland in general. The walk wends its way through an old abandoned mining village where the standing remains of a whole community can still be seen, and it isn’t hard to conjure up the life lived there. If it is views that you seek then you may want to give the Cairnsmore walk a go. It is a circular route (descending on the Knockgrey Trail or vice versa) that takes you past the Green Well of Scotland, with its many legends, and up the famous Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. It has to be said that this is a walk for the more fit amongst you and it will take about an hour and a half to reach the summit. The views are stunning and on a good day you can see both England and Northern Ireland. The last Core Path off the A713 is the Dundeugh Trail, based around Dundeugh Hill; bordered on three sides by water it is suitable for horses, walkers and cyclists, and frequented and greatly loved by all local dog owners. There are the remains of two ancient castles in the Local artist Robin Ade with the Carsphairn Core Paths signboard for which he did the artwork. The board is situated at the junction between the A713 and B729 just outside Carsphairn village. area which can be found with a bit of perseverance and a good map. The charm of this walk is that a section of the walk takes you along the banks of the Kendoon Loch, with its abundant wildlife. Once you are feeling confident with the main route do discover all the little tracks that cross over and intertwine it. Some take you down to the suspension bridges with their lovely views up the rivers, and some take you on quirky routes through the forest. The Carsphairn Core Paths really help you to discover what is our most far-flung Glenkens landscape and community. Why don’t you take advantage of these accessible and wellmaintained routes, and discover some of the local secrets and hidden gems? You won’t be disappointed! Sara McNeill Glenkens Gazette page 3 The 2013 Golf Season is now well under way at New Galloway Golf Club. As a result of reading the article in the last issue of the Gazette readers will already have pencilled in their diary Saturday 1 June for Give Golf A Go at New Galloway Golf Club; hopefully this article will act as a reminder. It is a free event, and you don’t even need your own clubs - just come along to the Club and try it out. Members will be on hand to help from 10am to 3pm. The Captain’s drive-in was late this year due to the atrocious weather. However, a good number of members and friends turned out to see the Club Captain, Jeff Sutcliffe, drive off along with the Lady Captain, Gerry MacKechnie, after which all members played in the Celts Challenge - the first time the competition had been played to celebrate the life of Chris Thomas, the Club’s President who died last year. Chris had always given great support to the Club and this was a fitting way to honour his loyalty. Work has been completed on the course drainage system, which hopefully will mean less days lost to bad weather. By the time you read this article, all the greens will have been topped, dressed and, with the right weather, will once again be the envy of all the courses in the area. The Ladies Team have won through to the 4th Round of the Daily Mail National Team Competition, their next game Jeff Sutcliffe and Gerry MacKechnie THE 19TH HOLE being away to St Medan Golf Club. All the Club’s competition results can be seen on the Club’s website - www.nggc.co.uk or www.masterscoreboard.co.uk We have had a number of visitors playing the course, several from overseas, and they all comment that the course is in excellent condition and the views magnificent. The Club is looking to improve the woodland walk in the near future which is an amenity for the community and tourists alike. Captain and Match Secretary, Jeff Sutcliffe ����������������������������������������������������� • 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 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 4 sponsored by EVERYTHING listed in the Glenkens Freecycle section is FREE - you just need to contact the owner and go and pick it up! If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch with Sarah on 07727 127 997 or email glenkens gazette@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. Various Bundle of 25 BBC Good Food magazines. Contact: Margaret on 460 250 Steel bath (no taps), not bad condition but more as a water trough than bathing. Contact: Andi on 430 255 Set of Deer Antlers. 70cm at widest point. Contact: Alan on 07769 680 938 Furniture Dark wood IKEA coffee table, extendable with storage inside and shelf underneath. Contact: 430 218 4 Victorian dining chairs. Been reupholstered ( removeable seats ) but now faded. Contact: Alan on 07769 680 938 Various bits of pine shelving - might need a DIY enthusiast! Contact: 430 218 Small round wine table. Red leather top. 50cm tall by 30cm wide. Contact: Alan on 07769 680 938 IKEA white cot bed, currently without 4th side, but could be put back on. Will need new mattress. Would suit 18month to 3 years as is, from birth with 4 sides. Smoke and pet free home. Contact: Helen on 07789693698. 4 cushions for patio chairs. Brown all weather covers. 47cm x 50cm. Brand new still in packaging. Contact: Alan on 07769 680 938 Clothing/Shoes Long black riding boots, size 5. Contact: 430 218 Children’s ‘Kangaroo’ child’s car booster seat, has a head rest so really comfy for long journeys. Contact: 430 218 Electrical Creda Easyload Condensair ( condenser ) tumble dryer. For spares or repair. Motor works and tumbles etc but doesn’t heat up. Contact: Alan on 07769 680 938 Sky Digibox made by Grundig (one of the better ones apparently?). Box works, but no working card. Contact: Andi on 430 255 WANTED Horseradish root. Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 (pref evenings) Small plastic tube about 4” long used to show pansies and violas at flower shows. Contact: Louise on 07901 696 694. Tent pegs - any kind. Contact: Sue on 07554 644 993 (pref eve) Chains (small and large lengths), winches, hand-winches, cables, pulley systems, wheelbarrow, hammers, files, gardening tools, etc. Can collect. These would help me greatly as I only have full use of one arm, and pulleys, etc, will help me with things like logs and bags of coal. Contact: Dave on 07547 134 276. Unwanted Spectacles Needed Do you have any unwanted (prescription) spectacles? Why not donate them to a good cause? Vision Aid Overseas is a charity which will put them to good use in third world countries. Leave your old glasses at Carsphairn, Kells or Dalry School or in the Glenkens Community Shop in Dalry. Art Show The Glenkens Art Group will hold its annual exhibi�on in the Community Centre in Dalry from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 June. It opens at 12 noon on Friday and closes at 4pm on Sunday. Work will be by ar�sts from all over the region, including an exhibi�on of pain�ngs entered in the Glenkens Schools Art Compe��on. Glenkens Gazette page 5 sponsored by New funding available for energy-saving measures... Our region will benefit from Scottish Government funding to the tune of £1.27 million. This is the sixth highest funding allocation in Scotland. The key purpose of the funding is to tackle fuel poverty in our region and the focus will be on whole street solid wall insulation, free loft and cavity wall insulation and a whole house approach to energy saving. The range of measures available include new heating systems, solar panels, double glazing and thermal insulation. Many properties in our region have a solid wall construction and are built using traditional stone materials. This new scheme will provide access to funding to tackle the poor thermal insulation normally associated with these properties. This is a particular issue in rural locations, such as the Glenkens. Eligibility for each scheme will be assessed on a case by case basis by the Energy Agency with the applicant’s post code, council tax band and income level dictating the level of help available. This will ensure that the free support is focused on those that need it the most. The funding for 2013/ 2014 is three times greater than last year’s allocation, and will allow the Council and its partners to implement a strong programme of works across our region. The loft and cavity wall scheme will continue from April 2013 with the solid wall insulation project and whole house scheme to follow in early summer. Community Energy Project Meetings are being held with representatives from the Community Councils of the Glenkens to agree a plan to take this project forward. We hope to provide information to the community about home insulation and types of sustainable energy. In the meantime be careful of the ‘special offers’ you are being offered by coldcalling companies. Check whether the company is registered with the Government Green Deal and that any deal being offered is really worth your while. Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING) New Galloway Town Hall: At last things appear to be moving. D&G Council have introduced a new format for their asset management. In the Stewartry, New Galloway Town Hall is now featuring on their immediate list, so look out for ways to put your views forward. To be viable and able to be used by the whole community, it will be necessary for a lot of upgrade work to be done – disability access, upgrade to toilets and kitchen, as well as a replacement of the heating system. This can only happen if we can justify appropriate grant applications with evidence about present and future use. As well as fundraising activities over the next few months, there will be meetings and surveys involving the whole community to find out what people would like to see happening. But don’t wait; if you have any immediate ideas or would like to offer particular skills or general support, please get in touch on 420 632 or ros.hill@rathanhouse.me.uk Ros Hill Carsphairn Show Saturday 1st June Livestock Judging, Sheep Dog Trials, Industrial Section, Pet Show, Dog Show, Hill Race and Dance at night. Glenkens Gazette page 6 Continued from front page... Gill feels strongly that her children have achieved so much by living in the Glenkens: “The school, the community spirit and all the groups, volunteer-led, gave them a really good start,” she comments. Matthew has been involved with many of the local groups and organisations, including 12 years with Dalry School Board, first as a parent member, then a spell as Chairman and latterly, once his children had left school, as Clerk. Head Teacher Fraser Simpson says;“Matthew was a great support over the years that he was Clerk to the School Board. Despite being inundated with minutes, D&G papers, Scottish Executive memos and so on, he always remained calm and effective and had a wicked sense of humour at just the right time. A real gentleman and pillar of the community”. In addition, Matthew has been involved with the Clachan Fair, the Town Hall Committee, the Community Council and the Heritage Group. Hilda McAdam, Chairman of the Heritage Group, says; “Matthew was an active member, particularly during the production of ‘A Day in Dalry’, our book recording life in Dalry at the millennium”. By 2000, Matthew felt that although there was so much going on in the area, there was no newsletter highlighting all that was going on in the community. Having noted that Moniaive had a newsletter, he asked their advice and, with help from local councillor George Prentice, got a grant to help with printing and paper. Thus the first Glenkens Gazette was put together on the Newtons’ kitchen table! It quickly became a great success, but after two years Matthew found he did not have the time needed to keep producing it and so the newly formed Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) took over. Now in its 13th year, it has become part of the fabric of life in the Glenkens and it gives Matthew great pleasure to see it going from strength to strength. Running a local shop, open seven days a week, is so much more than the sum of its parts. Aileen McLeod MSP working for you across the South of Scotland Postal address: Unit 7 Loreburn Shopping Centre High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2BD Email: aileen.mcleod.msp@scottish.parliament.uk Tel: 01387 255 334 Please check www.aileenmcleod.org for regular surgery, constituency and parliamentary updates Newspapers, groceries, local baking, coffee and filled rolls at lunchtime, ice-creams and sweets, beer and wine, dry cleaning and general information point all combine to make it an important part of village life. Gill says; “We have particularly enjoyed taking on young people as staff and seeing them grow and develop into confident young adults”. Matthew adds: “All our staff, both past and present, have been so supportive, as have our customers. Even in these difficult economic times, when people have to shop more carefully, they still continue to support their local shop”. Now that their daughter is married and settled in Aberdeen, Matthew and Gill feel the time has come to retire and move up there, particularly as there is a grandchild due later in the year. They are delighted that Lyndsay Forbes (nee Wright - pictured on front page) is taking over the business and wish her every success. Lyndsay was ten when her family moved to Dalry and ran the Garden Centre. After leaving school she moved away, but now comments: “It’s so nice to be coming home!” 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 7 To Thine Own Lion-Heart Be True There is an old Italian saying: ‘È meglio vivere un giorno da leone che cento anni da pecora’, which translates as: ‘It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep’. Undoubtedly, it is hard to be a lion (even on a good hair day), for that would mean taking a fearless and bold approach to life. How many of us can honestly say we do that? What is it that stops us? If you followed the old Zen adage of ‘leap and the net will appear’, what would you be doing differently with your life? For many people it is a lack of self-esteem and confidence which stops them from achieving their goals and embracing life. Selfesteem is how we measure our worth. It can be seen in the ways in which we think about ourselves and the beliefs we hold. If we have low self-esteem, we feel overwhelmed, powerless and lost. Thoughts such as ‘I am unloveable’, ‘I am not good enough’, ’it’s all my fault, I’m a terrible person’ or ‘I should have done that/should have done this’ all come from the core beliefs we hold about ourselves deep inside of us. These then become our patterns of thinking about ourself, which influence what our place is in the world. The bad news is that low selfesteem can make us ill. Feeling bad about ourselves, allowing others to treat us dis-respectfully and holding onto our emotions, such as anger and fear, can lead to suppressed immunity and high levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Not to mention depression and anxiety. The good news (hooray!) is that we can change the way we feel about ourselves through learning new positive ways to think about ourselves, setting new goals, finding our voice and being supported. My new course, Lion Heart Confidence, is designed to support you to challenge the beliefs you hold about yourself which are limiting your potential. You can learn new ways to communicate which will help you to reduce conflict and feel empowered. Most importantly, it will allow you to meet your best self. Living life with confidence can be seen as a marriage between trust and courage. Trust in yourself to know what the right thing to do is and have courage to carry out your conviction. We develop trust in ourselves when we remain authentic and do what we think is best, regardless of what others may think, and we accomplish goals that we set, regardless of any mistakes we may have made along the way. We can all be lions all of the time if we learn how to have a lionheart. Gill Stanyard For more information on booking a place on a Lion-Heart Confidence Course ,or for 11 sessions to help improve confidence, please email lionheartconfidence@outlook.com or phone 07971 769 785. There is a free session of laughter Yoga included in the course - designed to naturally release endorphins and let go of stress and worry. ARNDARROCH OPEN GARDEN The 2 1⁄2 acre garden is a wildlife-friendly, semi-natural environment with views over Kendoon Loch and Cairnsmore of Carsphairn. Red kites circle overhead and peregrine falcons may also be spotted. There are good collections of herbaceous plants, shrubs and trees, including a Clootie Tree and an Anvil tree. Over 20 different bamboos provide interest all year round, and a woodland was planted in 2000 and a second bog garden in 2012. There will be an exhibition of photographs by Mary McIlvenna, plus a plant stall where you can buy some of the varieties of plant you see growing. Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on leads. Entry is £3.50, with children under 16 free, and teas are available for £2.50. Arndarroch is on the B7000, five miles from Dalry or Carsphairn, and the postcode is DG7 3UD. Follow the blue signs till you see the blue balloons at the turning to the drive. Beneficiaries: D&G Canine Rescue Centre 70%, Glenkens Children’s Club 30%. Photograph by Mary McIlvenna Support Glenkens Children’s Club and Dumfries & Galloway Canine Rescue Centre by visiting Arndarroch Garden, by the kind permission of Annikki Lindsay, on Sunday 30 June from 2 to 5pm. Glenkens Gazette Bowling Spalding Bowling Club opened the green for play on Saturday 20 April. In front of a good turn-out of spectators the President John Peacock invited his wife Eliz to throw the SilverJack and declared the green open for play. After a cup of tea 24 people played in a friendly Sweep. Anyone is welcome to come along and have a try and new members are always welcome. Sweep nights are on Mondays and Saturdays, at 7pm. You can play at other times - just ask any of the members. page 8 Over £750 Raised for Lifeboats Another successful evening was held at Dalry Town Hall to raise money for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) in May. The Glenkens Committee were delighted to report that over £750 was raised. Mrs Nicolette Wise spoke about the RNLI ethos of using volunteers wherever possible and how this could be admirably demonstrated by Mrs Jean Maltman, who recently stepped down from the Glenkens Committee having joined in 1970. Her exceptional 42 years of volunteering for the Lifeboats was applauded. The Kirkcudbright Lifeboat Station was last year joined by two new recruits who have settled in and are doing well. The Glenkens Committee hope the money raised will go towards the costs of their official training in Poole later this year. Return of the Mulloch Hill Race The Mulloch Hill Race is to be run as part of Dalry’s Clachan Fair on Sat 15 June at 3.15pm, starting from the school playing field. This is a short race with winners in three classes: adult, secondary age child and primary age child. Entry is on the day from 2.30pm, no fee but donations accepted. Fun runners and walkers welcome. Bargatton Sand & Gravel Supplying sand and gravel for all your farming needs, as well as households and businesses both large and small. In Stock: Concrete sand, building sand, washed gravels including peagravel and 20-40mm draining gravel. £15 per tonne + VAT. Aggregate mix £15.50 per tonne + VAT. For further details contact: Angus Wilson, Quarry Manager - 07715 606 685 James Mair - 07793 085 243 Email: loch.bargatton@live.co.uk Bargatton Quarry, Laurieston, Castle Douglas, DG7 2PS Open 7 days Mon-Fri Weekends by arrangement Delivery can be arranged - subject to quantity Glenkens Gazette page 9 Photo of the Issue: ‘Summer in the Glenkens’ Sponsored by the Ken Bridge Hotel This issue’s winner is this lovely shot of a bee by Nicola Kenyon. Dave, owner of the Ken Bridge Hotel and judge of the Photo of the Issue Competition, says: “We were so impressed with the quality of the entries; any one of them could have won. We’d like to give a special mention to Fraser McCormick for his photograph of Kendoon Loch.” Competition winner Nicola, 23, says: “I am a young local photographer who took this picture in my mother’s garden in New Galloway. I stood for over an hour to capture this shot but I am very pleased with the outcome.” Nicola will receive a meal for two at the Ken Bridge Hotel. We will keep all entries on file and if they suit a future theme/season, they will be re-considered. PLANTS, CAKES & CREAM TEAS Balmaclellan & Kells Church are holding a Plant Sale with cream teas and a cake stall in Balmaclellan Village Hall on Saturday 25 May. It will run from 2pm to 4pm, and entry costs £2.50 per person with proceeds in aid of church funds. Please come along and support this event. Margaret Morris Movement THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL New Galloway - a holistic dance technique Enhance your health and wellbeing while developing your creative side. Created over a century ago, this modern dance technique is accessible to all and remains as relevant as ever to the needs of the individual looking for a movement method that focuses on posture, breathing, co-ordination, relaxation & fitness, at the same time as developing the creative dimension in all of us. Open 7 Days Beautiful Riverside Location MEALS SERVED 12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm Classes for Adults at the CatStrand, New Galloway, are on Mondays 2.30 to 3.30pm during term-time. Classes for early years at CatStrand, New Galloway, are on Mondays 3.45 to 4.30pm and 4.30pm to 5.30pm for upper primary and youth. Renowned Ken Bridge Sunday Lunch Carvery, ‘The Best in the West’, now in its 8th year. Bed & breakfast en suite accommodation For further information, contact Sara on 01556 612854 or sara.lockwood @sky.com mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk ww.kenbridgehotel.co.uk 01644 420 211 Glenkens Gazette page 10 The recent Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) trip to the Lake District, rearranged because of bad weather, proved to be success despite the rain. A day of changing weather meant that the route and itinerary were regularly reviewed in an effort to make the most of improving overhead conditions. There was coffee in Caldbeck, followed by a murky drive past Bassenthwaite Lake. Then we headed on past Thirlmere to Grasmere for lunch and on to Rydal Water and Windermere. We took time out for a quick group photograph before passing Pooley Bridge and back up the M6 home. REFUNDS: Unless a trip is cancelled or re-arranged by GTI, no refunds will be made if someone who has booked a seat cannot go. This is the same as if you booked a seat on public transport or a seat at the theatre, so do your best to find someone else to take your place if you can’t go. WEDNESDAY EVENING SERVICE TO CASTLE DOUGLAS: An application has been submitted to the Traffic Commissioner to slightly alter the times of this service with effect from Wednesday 7 Kath Bates, Libby Ritchie, Mary Dougan, Evelyn McMurray, Syd and Daphne Precious, Dot Struthers, Jean Winstanley SEVEN LAKES IN ONE DAY August 2013. The departure time from Underhill will remain as at present (7pm), but journey times will be adjusted with the return journey being back in Dalry by 9.15pm; don’t worry, you will still have a similar amount of time for your shopping, and you’ll be home earlier! Full details will be in the next issue of the Gazette. Keith Cooper Introducing PC Ian Dunn PC Ian Dunn will be taking over from Bryan Bruton as Community Constable for the Glenkens. In the next issue of the Gazette we will have an interview with Ian, discussing the role of Community Constable and what this means for residents of the Glenkens. Ian says: “I feel very privileged to be able to live and work in such a beautiful part of the country and I have found the people so welcoming since moving here. In my role as Community Constable I hope to be able to return this, helping people to feel safe, secure and able to enjoy living and working here too.” “I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible in the coming years and hope to become as integral a part of your Community as Constable Bryan Bruton has been.” Family and friends coming to stay? New Galloway Short of space? Golf Club Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) www.nggc.co.uk Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 or 07789 903127 Founded 1902 v 01644 420737 v Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Glenkens Gazette page 11 The CatStrand welcomes the summer with a programme of fantastic music, theatre and workshops. World-class folk act Lau will take the stage on Friday 28 June, and a new collaboration of four of the finest singers and musicians from Ireland and America will perform a mixture of Americana and Irish traditional music, along with contemporary songs and tunes, on Tuesday 2 July. Described as “old-time music with attitude”, Americana livewires The Hot Seats bring some Virginian sunshine to the Glenkens on Wednesday 31 July. Bringing music and dance together, we present Betsy Thunder; a collaboration from musician Plum and choreographer Emma Jayne Park, director of Black Swan Dance Theatre. See what they developed during their residency at Dance Base on Saturday 1 June. As well as dance, enjoy some top-class theatre this summer. The CatStrand are taking part in Refugee Week by presenting Some Other Mother on Wednesday 19 June, a poetic drama by AJ Taudevin about the trials of an African family claiming asylum in Scotland. Young theatrelovers are sure to enjoy Tall Stories Theatre Company’s My Little Brother the Robot on Tuesday 16 July. Over the summer months there will be plenty of workshops for all ages, ranging from life-drawing to drama and film-making. And as a final snippet of what’s on, you can watch the documentation of the lives of eleven-year-olds from around the world preceded by films made by young people from the Glenkens in I am Eleven, screening on Friday 19 July . For full listings, or to book tickets, call 01644 420 374 or visit www.catstrand.com Come along to the CatStrand Cafe for a brand new menu with breakfast and lunch ideas - Cafe now open for food on Saturdays and Sundays too. 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 Some Other Mother CatStrand Highlights Glenkens Gazette page 12 Carsphairn Primary Goes Fizz, Boom, Bang! At Carsphairn this term, the children are learning about the human body and its systems. The children launched their new science topic with some help from the experts at Edinburgh International Science Festival. Science experts Laura Henderson and Rebecca Thirgood, from Generation Science, came to our school to talk about chemical reactions in a presentation they call ‘Fizz, Boom, Bang!’ We soon found out why... The children did a number of experiments to create chemical reactions, then used their skills of observation to decide which materials gave the best fizz, boom or bang. And of course, we all dressed up like scientists in safety goggles, safety gloves and lab aprons. We learned about acids and alkaline materials, the four signs of a chemical reaction and even designed our own experiment. It was a great afternoon and a fun way to get our new science topic started. All the pupils would like to give a special thank you to the Edina Trust for donating the funding for this inspiring visit. Walker McKenna Wednesday Afternoons at Dalry School There’s now an established activity at this time of year at school where pupils can choose to learn more about camp-craft and go on two camps on Wednesday nights, packing up and getting back for school the next day. Camp 1 was at Taliesin, where the pupils baked tatties in the campfire, and one pupil produced this CatStrand Youth Players The Youth Players enjoyed yet more success at the West of Scotland Finals in Glasgow. This was their third appearance in the past four years, this time with the very challenging production of ‘Little Bro Morning & Big Sis Afternoon’ by Mike Tibbetts. The performance at the Stewartry District Festival in February had swept up three trophies and received an excellent adjudication magnificant dessert (pictured) which we were all jealous of! Camp 2 is going to take advantage of the art installation in the Dark Sky park. We’re hiring warm suits from the CatStrand, so just need a clear night. Here’s hoping... Linda Biggar too, so expectations were high for the trip to the Eastwood Theatre. The young cast had one hour to rehearse on the Eastwood stage and get used to the new venue. They certainly did not disappoint, taking the play to a new level and wowing their new audience with their very mature performances of an extremely difficult and very emotional piece. As the adjudicator had commented at Castle Douglas: “I have previously watched this play being performed by an entirely adult cast and they did not achieve the level of intensity and emotion that was sustained by this young but very talented cast.” The only concern at this stage was that the play had run slightly over the maximum time allowed, which meant three penalty points deducted. However, even taking this into account, it wasn’t until the last club took to the stage in the evening (Kirkintilloch Youth Players) that a serious challenge was presented! Everyone waited with baited breath for the adjudicator’s verdict, and the CatStrand Youth Players were delighted to be awarded the Ross Arthington Memorial Trophy for second place. Thankfully the time penalty had not made any difference to the placings; we were well clear in second place. A hat-trick of ‘silver medals’ at the Western Finals achieved in the space of four years is absolutely fantastic, and everyone should be very proud of this achievement. The CatStrand Youth Players are now firmly established on the Scottish Youth Drama scene and surely it can only be a matter of time before an appearance at the Scottish Final! The next productions will take place at the CatStrand on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 June at 7.30pm. After the emotion of ‘Little Bro’, we thought it appropriate to stage an evening of comedy, so book your tickets now (see p11 for CatStrand booking details). After these performances, the Youth Players will break for the summer and meet again from the beginning of September to begin rehearsing for the Christmas Panto. Brian Edgar Glenkens Gazette page 13 Tai Jitsu Teamwork The young people of Carsphairn have banded together to buy new equipment for their Tai Jitsu Club. David Birdsall, Club instructor, said: “After a lot of searching and asking for support for the young people of the area in buying training mats for use in the village hall, we are pleased to announce that we have secured our first funding from YouthBank. “As the instructor, I am very pleased with the attitude and determination of the young people in Carsphairn to prove that they are willing and capable of finding the funding needed that was not available locally. Well done!” Each week a ‘Carsphairn Tai Jitsu Junior Student of the Week’ is chosen from Club members. David says: “This is awarded to the student that used good manners, behaved well in class, listened and tried hard. All the students achieve this, but every week a student shines out.” The school holidays are on their way; but no need to get bored - this year there will be plenty on offer in the Glenkens. ON A ROLL Summer Scheme REBECCA’S Young people can take part in different activities each week thanks to the Glenkens Summer Scheme, a project run by the CatStrand and supported by D&G Council and the Holywood Trust. There will be regular drop-in sessions as well as workshops, trips and projects with everything from film making to Forest Park adventures to choose from. See below for details of some of the activities on offer, and keep an eye out for the full Summer Scheme timetable coming soon. Nightingale Stage Academy: Monday 8 to Friday 12 July, 9am to 3pm, Ages 6 to 16, £60. Filmmaking with Scene 1 Take 1, Monday 15 to Friday 19 July, 10am to 4pm, Ages 10 to 18, £20. Painting Workshop with Robyn Wade, Wednesday 24 July, 9.30am to 1pm, Ages 10 to 16, Free. Twisted Loons Animation, Saturday 3 August, Age 8 to 12, £3. Big Groove Samba Workshop, Sunday 4 August, 3pm, All ages, free. Street Workshops with Bright Night International (Parkour, Beatboxing, Breakdance), Wednesday 7 & Thursday 8 August, Ages 8+, £4 per workshop or £10 for all three. PLUS Keep an eye out for: Drop-in activities/ sport & games/dance leadership/Forest Park adventures/youth trips and more! You may have noticed that this issue our Youth Banter section is missing...This is because CatStrand Youth Worker Rebecca, aka Beck Goldsmith, is having an exciting time with her music career taking off. But watch this space for a jam-packed Youth Banter next issue! Featured on the front page of the last Gazette for having her rendition of ‘I Vow to Thee My Country’ played on a BBC TV trailer, Rebecca is on a roll... She says: “It’s been a bit of a roller-coaster since the last issue of the Gazette. Our version of I Vow to Thee My Country seems to have taken on a life of its own! BBC Radio 2 played it on their Good Morning Sunday show and were inundated with feedback. It got into the iTunes top 100 and almost topped the Amazon Folk Chart... I’m now writing songs for a new album, which will hopefully be out before Christmas. Thanks everyone for your support and encouragement so far.” So watch this space - we’ll keep you updated on Rebecca’s star progress. 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 14 ‘Connecting in Retirement’ Opportunities for Over Sixties The CatStrand’s new ‘Connecting in Retirement’ project is now underway. This is a four-year project, funded by the Big Lottery, which aimis to reduce social and rural isolation among Glenkens residents aged sixty-plus. The project has already attracted a great deal of attention and support from numerous individuals and groups based in the Glenkens. Brian Jones, who was appointed in February as the Community Projects Officer at the CatStrand, is keen to hear from any Glenkens residents aged over 60 who would like to join a newly-formed activity committee to plan and implement activities and events. The project aims to create sustainable groups, activities and partnerships which will enable those who might feel isolated to become involved in the Glenkens communities. This would include more use of community transport to enable people to attend more activities and events as well as take part in regular outings. To date a number of regular session are taking place where the sixty-plus aged group are involved - these include Exercise to Music, Pilates and Zumba Gold. A five-week Learn to Play the Ukulele class is also underway with professional music tutor Stuart Butterworth, with participants already playing a number of songs. This has proved to be very popular so the current group looking to continue as well as other new groups likely to start. Also planned is both an IT Awareness drop in day on Saturday 1 June, followed by a six-week beginners/improvers IT class at the CatStrand. For those people wanting a gentle form of exercise, a ten-week Tai Chi class is being scheduled to start in July, to run in conjunction with the Stewartry Building Healthy Communities team run by Morag Curtis. For those who would like to take part in basic cooking and nutritional advice, a taster session followed by a sixweekly preparation and cooking session is 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 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.  01556 502263  VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS planned to happen in the July/August timeframe. Below are some more activities for sixty-plus folks in the Glenkens: • Beginner/Improvers photography with a professional photographer running a six week course with included outings. • Awareness sessions for home safety and fire prevention. • Awareness session on the latest universal benefits scheme • Befriending older members of the Glenkens communities. • Walking groups • Regular events like Tea Dances or Games afternoons • Breakfast Club and learn a foreign language • Astronomy and the Dumfries & Galloway Dark Skies project • Learning general DIY skill • Art and craft sessions If you are interested in any of the above activities or events or have others in mind Brian would love to hear from you and feel free to call in to the CatStrand to have a coffee or tea and a chat with him - 01644 420374 or brian@catstrand.com FHB Fencing Dalry Domestic and Agricultural Fencing 01644 430 495 (Peter) or 07767 795 498 (Jonathan) Fiona Hyslop Visits CatStrand page 15 Left to right: Cathy Agnew, Brian Collins, Fiona Hyslop Glenkens Gazette Fiona Hyslop MSP, Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, stopped at the CatStrand recently on her tour of the region promoting a new arts partnership. The Culture Secretary was meeting people and seeing projects which will benefit from the new £400,000 Place Partnership between Creative Scotland and Dumfries and Galloway Council. Cakes & Plants for Waverley Care A recent Cake and Plant sale organised by the Ladies Guild at St Margaret’s Church in New Galloway raised over £400 for Waverley Care, Scotland’s leading charity providing care and support for HIV and Hepatitis C sufferers and their families. St Margaret’s Ladies Guild President, Christine Rankin, commented: “Church members had provided a wealth of delicious cakes as well as ransacking their gardens and greenhouses for plants. We were delighted with the success of the sale, helped I am sure by the sunshine!” Apollo 5 to Revisit Dalry Having wowed locals last year with their stunning performance, the charitable a cappella ensemble returns to the Glenkens this August. Apollo 5 have been praised for their eye-catching performances, with a wide-ranging repertoire of retro jazz, pop, classical and Christmas a cappella. The five young professional singers, who perform regularly on Resonance FM and BBC Radio 2, give engaging and entertaining performances. The group is part of the charitable foundation, Voces Cantabiles Music, and is involved in the foundation’s innovative education programme which aims to inspire creativity through music. The programme, led by VOCES8, reaches 25,000 young people annually, working in over 200 schools in the UK, France, Sweden the USA and Asia. Apollo5 are proud to be working in collaboration with Red Balloon Learner Centres in the UK. The aim of Red Balloon is the recovery of severely bullied children. The group is working with students to encourage them to grow in confidence and find their voice through singing together, in order to encourage them back into mainstream education and employment. The concert will be held in Dalry Town Hall on Thursday 8 August at 7.30pm. Funds raised from the performance will go to the group’s charitable foundation, with a portion going to support Dalry Town Hall. Glenkens Gazette page 16 COVENANTER MEMORIAL STONE Here is a picture of the new memorial stone laid at the Covenanter burial site near the Palfern Burn on Sunday 28 April. Also in the picture is the belt taken off one of the Covenanters by Stewart McSkimming when the bodies were first discovered in 1977 during Forestry planting operations (see article in last issue of the Gazette) and given to Alastair Penman for restoration. You can see a nick in it from what may have been the fatal wound inflicted on its owner. The belt has a pouch for gunpowder up the centre of it leading to a brass dispenser for loading powder into a musket. David Bartholomew Watson Bird Update The results of some very creative work by pupils at Carsphairn, Dalry and Kells were the key attraction at the Watson Birds Eggs and Nests day on Easter Saturday in Dalry Town Hall. The imagination and creativity of the children was evident in all of the displays and delighted responses of the 100 plus visitors on the day. Watson Birds representatives attended the Scottish Bird Fair at Hopetoun House and were pleased at how many people were not only interested in our project, but expressed a willingness to join us for our third Festival in September (Friday 20 to Sunday 22). On the fund-raising front we are Cllr Finlay Carson Castle Douglas & Glenkens for an appointment Tel: 07825 633 185 or email: finlay@finlaycarson.co.uk www.finlaycarson.co.uk making steady progress. Our Feathers campaign for activities and events has now topped £25,000, a quarter of the way towards our £100,000 target. Most significantly, we have received an anonymous donation of £100,000 to help purchase Barone. Together with funds provided by the Pamela Young Trust as partners in our project, we are now in a position to begin formal negotiations with the Watson family for purchase of the house. We are gathering a collection of Donald Watson’s paintings on loan from various sources which will be on display in Dalry Town Hall and the CatStrand, to remind everyone of the excellence of Donald’s art and the ambitions of our project. Festival plans are well underway, with some new items this year; photographic master classes and GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL  01644 420234  talks on wildlife photography, talks and debates led by the winner and runner up for this year’s Watson Raptor Science Prize, and the formal opening of our walking and car/cycle trails. In addition, we will have music concerts, poetry and an art exhibition and a talk by one of the artists, Darren Woodhead, whose work is currently on display at the CatStrand to emphasise the importance of our bird project as part of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT). For further information, Aaron Edgar, our part-time project officer based at the CatStrand, can be contacted on aaron@watsonbirds.org or 01644 420374, or you can get in touch with me on roger@watsonbirds.org or 07803 595267. Roger Crofts, Director Watson Birds 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 jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 17 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN Alexander Murray: Linguistic Genius Two hundred years ago Alexander Murray died. He was born at Dunkitterick in 1775 to his 70 year old father and his second wife. We all know his monument on the Queensway but how many of us really question why he deserves such a memorial? The obelisk marking his grave in Greyfriars’ churchyard, Edinburgh, succinctly captures local pride in his achievement: “Erected by Admirers chiefly connected with Galloway, to Commemorate the Genius and Fame of the Shepherd Boy who rose to be the most eminent Linguist and Oriental Scholar of his day”. From humble beginnings in the wilds of Galloway he became the only person in Britain who could translate a letter written in Ethiopic for George III. He was not strictly a Glenkens man but he had connections here. His father, who grew up in Kells, worked for Mr Lawson of Clatteringshaws. Murray senior had enough education to teach his son to read and write. Alexander’s maternal grandfather lived near New Galloway where the boy was briefly taught by William Gordon. There he was mocked as a child from the moors of Minnigaff for his idiosyncratic pronunciation. There too, according to himself, in that wellknown den of iniquity, he ran wild for the first and only time in his life: “I learned to swear, lie and do bad tricks”. He was gradually acquiring an interest in languages. Later he received from his cousin, John Heron, father of another lad o’ pairts, Robert Heron of New Galloway, a Hebrew lexicon. By year, dying of tuberculosis aged 37. His History was not published until 1823. Murray’s true contribution was that of comparing the grammars, vocabularies and alphabets of languages to discover the relationships between them. He was one of those who discovered Indo-European, an ancient hypothetical language which was the root of so many others from English to Sanskrit and Icelandic to Abyssinian. the time he went to Edinburgh University he knew Latin, Greek, French, something of Hebrew, Anglo-Saxon, Gothic, German, Welsh and Gaelic. All were largely self-taught because due to poor health and poverty he had a total of only about sixty weeks of schooling. His secret was in his favourite book. “If I had a copy of the Bible in any language of which I knew the alphabet, I could make considerable progress in learning it without grammar or dictionary”. Locally he was famous for memorising and reciting great chunks of the good book. He continued his studies at Edinburgh moving into Asiatic languages and especially Sanskrit, knowledge of which was brought to the west largely by Scots serving in India. He became editor of the Scots Magazine and also of James Bruce’s Travels to Abyssinia. Then he became minister of Urr, where he worked on his great two-volume History of European Languages before his appointment as Professor of Oriental Languages at Edinburgh, a post he held for less than a For example the same word crops up in languages far apart, such as ‘father’, which is ‘vater’ in German, ‘pater’ in Latin and ‘pitar’ in Sanskrit. Such awareness led in turn to important questions about the origins of language itself, which we are still asking, since it is our basic human possession. In Murray’s day it was believed that the first language was Hebrew, spoken in the Garden of Eden and, of course, the language of the Bible. He demonstrated that there were languages older than Hebrew thus potentially questioning biblical teachings and his own faith. His discoveries were as important as later nineteenth-century revolutionary breakthroughs in such fields as geology, natural history and science. As he wrote, “I wish to combine etymology with the study of the human mind, and to trace the history of nations in the history of language”. This man who grew up listening to the sheep and the birds in the shadow of Craignelder was truly a giant and a genius. Think on that the next time you pass his monument at the Grey Mare’s Tail! Ted Cowan Glenkens Gazette page 18 APRIL & MAY MAY 3pm, see p3 Sat 1, IT Awareness drop in day, Sat 25, Plant Sale, Balmaclellan CatStrand, see p14 Village Hall, see p9 Sat 1, Plum Tunes: Betsy Thunder, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 31, Film: The Quartet, Wed 5, Open Stage, 7.30pm, 7.30pm, CatStrand CatStrand Sun 9 to Sat 15, Clachan Fair Week, various locations around 25 May – 8 June, Exhibition: Dalry, see ad below Geoff Forrest, CatStrand Thurs 11 – Sun 30, Exhibition: Sat 1, Carsphairn Show, see p5 The Suitcase of the Dying Village Sat 1, ‘Give Golf a Go’, 10amby Tom Pow, CatStrand Fri 14, Alasdair Roberts Trio, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 14 Sun 16, Art Exhibition, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry Sat 15, Mulloch Sunday 9 to Saturday 15 June 2013 Hill Race, 3.15pm, school playing field (see below) Wed 19, Some Other Mother by AJ Taudevin, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 21, Film: Les Miserables, PARADE DAY SATURDAY 15 JUNE 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 28, Lau, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sun 30, Arndarroch Open Garden, 2 - 5pm, see p7 JUNE St John’s Town of Dalry Clachan Fair Week Fun for everyone! From the Fun Show for Dogs to the Quiz Night... ...and lots more! Watch out for programmes and posters around the Glenkens for details of individual events Scottish Alternative Games Sunday 4th August New Galloway Park 2 pm CEILIDH NEW GALLOWAY TOWN HALL fRIDAY 2ND aUGUST, 8.30PM JULY Tue 2, Pauline Scanlon, Noriana Kennedy, Jefferson Hamer, & Méabh O’Hare, 7.30pm, CatStrand Tue 16, Tall Stories: My Little Brother the Robot, 2pm, CatStrand Fri 19, Film: I am Eleven, 7.30pm, CatStrand Wed 31, The Hot Seats, 7.30pm, CatStrand Tue 2 – Wed 31, Exhibition: Colin Park, CatStrand Mon 8 - Fri 12, Nightingale Stage Academy, 9am-3pm, Showcase finale Friday, CatStrand, see p13 Wed 24, Painting Workshop with Robyn Wade, 9.30am–1pm, CatStrand, see p13 Mon 15 - Fri 19, Filmmaking with Scene 1 Take 1, 10am-4pm, Screening on Fri 19, CatStrand, see p13 Sat 20, Workshop: Life Drawing with Katharine Wheeler, 10am– 3pm, CatStrand Wed 31, The Hot Seats, 7.30pm, CatStrand AUGUST Thurs 1, Stewartry Show, Stewartry Rugby Club, Castle Douglas, see p5 Fri 2, Alternative Games Ceilidh, New Galloway Town Hall, 8.30pm Sat 3, Dumfries & Lockerbie Agricultural Show, Showfield, Park Farm, Dumfries, see back page Sun 4, Scottish Alternative Games, New Galloway Town Park, 2pm Thurs 8, Apollo 5, Dalry Town Hall, 7.30pm, see p15 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 Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) bus or for more information please contact keith cooper, GTI Administrator, on 01644 420 374. Glenkens Gazette page 19 REGULAR EVENTS CatStrand (New Galloway): Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am Margaret Morris Movement Adult Dance Class, Mon, 2.30-3.30pm, contact Sara on 01556 612854 Children’s Dance Class: Mon during term time, 3.45-4.45pm age 3-7, 4.30-5.30pm age 8-15 Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm & Wed, 7-9pm Ballroom & Latin Dance Class: Mon, 7.15, for more info call Sam Rushton on 420 672 Good Neighbour’s Club: Tues, 2pm Kickback Martial Arts: Thurs, 79pm Carer’s Coffee & Chat: Tues, 10am-12noon Thursday Craft Group: Thurs, 24pm Teen Spirit: Tues during term time, 7-8:30pm (P7 - S3) and 8-9:30pm (S3+, Duke of Edinburgh) Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm Sing it Out: Thurs, 11.30am 12.30pm Various Locations: 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 Zumbatomic, last Sat each month,10-10.45am Catstrand Youth Players: Sun during term time, 2pm Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, last Sun of the month, 2-4pm Glenkens Community Centre (Dalry): (contact Kath 430 281) Glenkens Children’s Club: Mon & Fri, 9.15-11.45am Guides: Tue during term-time, 6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281 Texas Hold ‘em Poker, Mon, 7.15pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.4511.15am, New Galloway Town Hall Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Dog Training: Tue & Wed, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. Contact: Eric 460 670 Tai Jitsu: Wed, Junior Class (age 6-14), 6-7pm; Senior Class, 78.30pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn, contact David on 07547 134 276, see p5 Wednesday Quiz Night, Wed, 8.30pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Stewartry Camera Club: Wed, Glenkens Community Councils Balmaclellan Community Council Meetings: 3rd Monday each month, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall. Carsphairn Community Council Meetings: Last Monday each month, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn. Dalry Community Council Meetings: 1st Monday each month, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. New Galloway & Kells Community Council Meetings: 2nd Monday each month, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall. Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library. CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon: 1st. Carsphairn: 10.30am: 1st,2nd,3rd,4th. Dalry: 9am: 1st,2nd(Jul),3rd, 4th. Dalry: 10.30am: 2nd(Jun). Kells: 10.30am: 2nd,3rd,4th,5th(Jun). Special Services/Events: 9 June, United Family Service, 10.30am, Dalry Church. 9 June, Clachan Fair Songs of Praise, 6.30pm, Newfield Green, Dalry. 30 June, United Service with Church Choir, 10.30am, Kells Church, 7 July, Communion Service, 10.15am, Carsphairn Church. Communion Services: 7 July, 10.15am, Carsphairn 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 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 Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Folk Music Session: 1st Sat each month, 8pm, The Clachan Inn, Dalry 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 Dalry Library (Tel: 430 234) Opening Times: 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 please phone. ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 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 Glenkens Gazette page 20 Children’s Club Gets Go-ahead for Growth Glenkens Children’s Club (GCC) has received a £10,000 grant from the Community and Families Fund, part of the Big Lottery Fund. The money will be used to re-start playgroup facilities in the Glenkens. Situated in Dalry Community Centre, the playgroup will run two mornings a week, starting in the new school year. This is a welcome step back towards what the Glenkens Playgroup used to offer before it was closed due to Council budget cuts in July last year. GCC Chair Helen Keron said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Big Lottery Fund agreed with us that some community childcare provision for two-tothree-year-olds is essential in the Glenkens area.” GCC Playgroup will run on a Tuesday and Thursday, with the Glenkens Children’s Club (where parents/carers must be in attendance) continuing to run on a Monday and Friday morning. GCC is part of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) group of community initiatives. Helen said: “We are indebted to the support of the GCAT staff and board in their help in the management of the Children’s STAFF REQUIRED Playgroup Manager & Playgroup Assistant Exciting opportunity to shape and run the new GCC Playgroup. Posts are for two mornings a week, term-time only, at Dalry Community Centre. Manager: To start-up and manage the new GCC (Glenkens Children’s Club) Playgroup, with the support of the parent-led committee. You will be registered as self-employed and duties will include updating policies, Care Inspectorate registration, etc, responsibility for day-to-day running of the Playgroup, child safety and wellbeing, all administration and adherence with the Early Years Curriculum. To have degree level qualification in childcare, or to be prepared to work towards this standard, and to have experience of running a Playgroup or Nursery. Hourly rate starting at £10. Assistant: You will be registered as selfemployed and duties will be to assist the manager in child safety and well-being and day-to-day running of the Playgroup. Some relevant experience with the pre-school agegroup preferred. Hourly rate starting at £6.50. Contact Helen Keron at keronh@me.com for info or apply with CV and covering letter. Application deadline 15 June 2013. 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: MON 8 JULY Club and support in our plans for expansion.” GCAT Chair Andrew Mellor said: “We are delighted to hear that the Children’s Club has been so successful in obtaining this funding and I look forward to seeing how the new venture develops over the next year.” For more details about the Playgroup, or to enrol children, contact Helen Keron on keronh@me.com, or visit www.glenkenschildrensclub.co.uk DUMFRIES & LOCKERBIE AGRICULTURAL SHOW on Saturday 3 August 2013 The Showfield, Park Farm, Dumfries Beef & Dairy Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Clydesdales, Horses and Ponies Home & Garden Industries, Walking Sticks, Craft Fair and Food Festival. Entertainment for all... Grand Parade of Livestock at 2.15pm Admission £14; OAP £9; Accompanied Children Free; Car Park £3 Livestock schedules available shortly. Home & Garden Industries schedules available now. Please contact: Mrs E Bicket, Secretary, 15 Fruid’s Park Ave, Annan, DG12 6AY Tel: 01461 201 199 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 76 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_076 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 2013 Description An account of the resource Editor: Sarah Ade https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/223/GlenkensGazette77.pdf 3bf65c102d2af51a92cb602a028e5b85 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 77 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry August/September 2013 ISSUE 77 FREE Ian’s Cycling Success Dalry resident Ian Knox has raised nearly £6000 on a 250 mile charity bike ride across Malawi. Ian says: “A huge thank you to everyone who sponsored me on this worthwhile adventure for such a needed cause. The final total raised was £5,710.90, and overall by the 28 cyclists it will be in the region of £62,000. The money will be given to the Mulanje Mission Hospital to distribute through a number of vital health care projects.” Continued on p19... Ian (kneeling 2nd up from the person lying down) with other fundraisers. FOREST SCHOOLS FOR CARSPHAIRN In the final few weeks of the 2012/13 school year, pupils from Carsphairn Primary School took their learning to the forest where the boys and girls had six sessions in the beautiful Glenlee Forest. Children had the opportunity to learn different knots, enjoy a scenic hike around the forest, traverse the Craigshinnie Burn, learn about some of the flora and fauna, build their own shelters, find all kinds of hiding places and even make and drink a hot cup of tea! Forest schools are a type of outdoor education in which children visit forests, learning personal, social and technical skills. Activities build independence and self-esteem, and highly valuable personal skills are also developed such as teamwork and problem solving. Carsphairn Primary pupils pictured with teacher Walker McKenna. Continued on p15... A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative Register Now for Superfast Broadband Dumfries & Gallowayregional council has committed £12.6 million to providing superfast broadband to households and businesses across the region. The South of Scotland Broadband Plan recognises how important this investment is by putting infrastructure in place to ensure that superfast broadband can be delivered to those areas that do not currently receive it. To make sure Glenkens households get on the map for new superfast broadband, go online and register at: www.southofscotland broadband.co.uk www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 Love to Eat An entrepreneurial duo in New Galloway has started up a new Glenkens business. Helen Keron and Dawn Spernagel have created Love To Eat, a company offering highquality home-made frozen meals. Ingredients are sourced as locally as possible, with meat from Grierson’s butchers in Castle Douglas, fresh fruit and vegetables and free-range eggs, as well as seasonal extras from their own gardens. These topquality ingredients are used to create a varied and seasonal menu of mains, puddings, soups and breads that can be kept in the freezer until needed. Helen says: “We got the idea from those busy days we all have when you just don’t feel like - or have time to - cook from scratch. Yet you still want to eat high quality, tasty food made from ingredients you would choose yourself. As there was nothing like that on offer around here, we decided to fill the niche!” The business, which started in February 2013, is really taking off, with many repeat customers around the Glenkens. This initial success has prompted the pair to expand further afield to include Castle Douglas, as well as catering for local businesses. One interesting development that Dawn and Helen didn’t for days when life’s too short Quality home-cooked frozen meals, puddings, soups and bread See www.lovetoeatglenkens.com for full menu & find us on Facebook for seasonal additions. Order on the website or call 07940 745 339 10% off your order in August (one per household) if you quote Gazette1 SO LONG SEAN PAUL expect was providing meals for elderly customers who are looked after by carers. In response to this, they have modified a number of their meals to be microwaveable instead of oven-cook in order to allow them to be prepared and served in a very short time. Dawn has always been interested in seasonal food and runs a number of ‘specials’ through their Facebook page. These are keenly watched for by loyal customers, and everything from Wild Garlic Pesto to Elderflower and Gooseberry Jam gets snapped up straight away. “When they’re gone, they’re gone!” says Dawn. “I have always loved foraging and sourcing seasonal fruit and veg to make delicious food for my family, and its exciting now to be able to offer it to a wider audience. They seem to love it just as much as we do!” It’s great to see new enterprises starting up in the Glenkens and with the energy and enthusiasm the pair are putting into their business - from choosing only the best ingredients to providing that little bit of extra customer care - this small business is set to go from strength to strength. After two very successful and innovative years as the General Manager of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT), Sean Paul O’Hare is moving back to his native Ireland to manage the Seamus Ennis Cultural Centre in County Dublin. It goes without saying that all of us who have worked with him are sorry to see him go. We will miss his energy, sense of humour, imagination and friendship. However, we congratulate him on the exciting challenge he is taking up. I hope that he will not forget the time he spent in the Glenkens and that this move might help to foster the development of cultural and artistic links between similar rural communities in Galloway and Ireland. The post of GCAT General Manager has now been advertised and we hope to hold interviews in the week beginning the 5 August. Andrew Mellor Roger That Roger Crofts, from Dalry, received an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science at the recent Glasgow University graduation ceremony at The Crichton Campus. Roger is Director of Watson Birds, Chair of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere and a Director of the Crichton Carbon Centre. Glenkens Gazette page 3 Photo of the Issue: ‘Midsummer Madness’ Sponsored by the Ken Bridge Hotel This issue’s winner is this action shot of two house martins by David Birdsall. Dave and Sue of the Ken Bridge Hotel, judges of the Photo of the Issue Competition, said: “We loved this shot and thought it was just so perfect for the time of year, but we’d also like to give a special mention to Mary McIlvena for her wonderful shot Misty Morning at Clatteringshaws; it was a difficult choice.” David will receive a meal for two at the Ken Bridge Hotel Sunday Carvery. Send in your entries for next issue and it could be you next time! We will keep all entries on file and if they suit a future theme/season, they will be re-considered. Mossdale Jubilee Path & Picnic Area The footpath and picnic are now almost complete, and by the time this is printed the picnic tables and benches should have been installed too. There will be an official opening, hopefully in September, so look out for details nearer the time. The project has been designed and carried out by John Robson of Crossmichael and, in keeping with the railway history of Mossdale, he has edged the picnic area with railway sleepers and utilised some granite that was originally part of the station platform. We are indebted to the grant from the Big Lottery Fund without which this project would not have been possible Jill Haslam Farewell from the Newtons Our move to Inverurie went well and we were very touched by the fond farewells from all our customers.  Matthew & Gill THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL New Galloway • Pensions • Savings • Investments • Retirement Options • Inheritance Tax Planning • Life Assurance • Income & Critical Illness Protection • Mortgages • Home Insurance Open 7 Days Beautiful Riverside Location Free Confidential Initial Consultation MEALS SERVED 12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm Tel: 01671 403080 Fax:- 01671 402549 Email: brian.edgar@marrfinancial.co.uk Web: www.marrfinancial.co.uk Renowned Ken Bridge Sunday Lunch Carvery, ‘The Best in the West’, now in its 8th year. Bed & breakfast en suite accommodation 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. 01644 420 211 mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk ww.kenbridgehotel.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 4 sponsored by EVERYTHING listed in the Glenkens Freecycle section is FREE - you just need to contact the owner and go and pick it up! If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch with Sarah on 07727 127 997 or email glenken sgazette@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. Various Gent’s bicycle – just a bit of oil and TLC to get it running again! Contact: Nigel on 460 545 Projector screen. Contact: Gerry on 420 852 Plastic mop bucket, unused. Contact: Kath on 460 545 Front and rear car mats – would suit small car. Contact: Kath on 460 545 A caravan awning that we don’t know the size of. It may be complete kit, or not. Contact: Emma on 07885 611 360 Non-stick baking tray with lip on 2 sides, 40cm x 35cm (too big for my oven). Contact: 430 218 Vintage mantle clock, Westminster chime circa 1940s. Doesn’t work due to removal men packing it upside-down! If anyone likes tinkering with old clocks, they are very welcome to it. Contact: Sue on 07563 718 011 ‘Airbox’ Compressor made by Simair. Needs some TLC, suitable for airbrush work. Contact: 01556 503649 Strimmer (petrol), works but the line feed is no longer automatic. Contact: 430 218 Furniture G-Plan round coffee table, wood with Glass top. Contact: Lindsey on 01556 670 545 (eves) We have an old sun lounger, padded. Contact: Emma on Apollo5 in Concert Dalry Town Hall 7.30pm Thursday 8th August Donation on the door 07885 611 360 “The Glenkens Freecycle page Leather swivel high-backed has been brilliant for me; a great office chair, new but broken mechanism; maybe easy to way to de-clutter without having fix. Contact: Emma on 07885 to do anything!” Alan 611 360 IKEA Pello Chair with blue Contact Nigel on 460 545 cushions. Contact: Lindsey on A2 Epsom printer needs good 01556 670 545 (eves) home - although for a donation Shoe rack (white). Contact: Gerry to golf club funds would be on 420 852 appreciated! Contact: Jeff at New ‘memory foam’ single jeffsutcliffe@btinternet.com mattress, barely used. Contact: Sony 28” older style tv in working Lindsey on 01556 670 545 (eves) order complete with stand. Digibox also available. Quite big & heavy to carry so probably KELLS SCHOOL UNIFORM: easier with two to carry. Contact: (Contact: Paula on 07884 247 trevprocter@aol.co.uk or 440 683 420) 2 x yellow M & S polo shirt, age 5 (23” chest). Any old wooden stepladders, it 1 x yellow M & S polo shirt, age 7 doesn’t matter if they’re broken (24 1/2” chest). as they are to sit plants on in the garden. Contact: Gill on 430 1 x Kells yellow polo shirt - 26” 156 or beebole@hotmail.co.uk chest Green checked summer school I am looking for volunteers dress, age 6-7 yrs. who would like counselling as 2 x Kells sweatshirt - 26” chest practice for my course. I have just completed the first year of a 1 x Kells sweatshirt - 28” chest. Sheepskin liner for pram / buggy. four-year course in Therapeutic Contact: Paula on 07884 247 420 Counselling and Psychotherapy, based at the College of Holistic BabyBjorn nave blue papoose. Contact: Paula on 07884 247 420 Medicine in Glasgow. The course is fully accredited with the Huggababy sling - dark green. British Association of Counselling Contact: Paula on 07884 247 420 and Pyschotherapy (BACP). All sessions are free, but a £7 room rental charge will need to UHF indoor antenna/aerial for be covered. Contact me in full digital or analogue TV reception. confidence on 430 156. Children’s WANTED Electrical Glenkens Gazette page 5 sponsored by Upcycyling The eco word of the moment is ‘upcycling’ and it is something we can all consider when it comes to our waste products. Everyone’s heard of recycling, but upcycling is the conversion of waste into something of use. The modern generation has become incredibly wasteful and we are labelled the ‘throwaway generation’. We have a tendency to regard everything as disposable and those objects in our lives that we no longer require are just thrown away. However, upcycling is not a new concept; our grandparents and older relatives would often spend their long winter evenings converting old products into something new and useful. In fact, in developing countries, where raw materials are expensive and not so easy to come by, upcycling is common practice. The fashion and art worlds have long been trying to inspire us to upcycle what we see as waste. One of the most famous examples of this is Picasso’s ‘Bullshead’ sculpture, and even here in the Glenkens you can find examples such as the CatStrand’s trademark sheep, created by artist Silvy Weatherall from the old school shed! Admittedly, not all of us are that talented, but perhaps we should all take a second look at the things we are throwing out. So where do you start? There is a plethora of websites with information on how to upcycle everything from bathtubs to clothing, bedsheets to tyres. I recently visited a Glenkens resident who, on having a new bathroom suite put in, upcycled her old plastic bath tub. She used wood from old pallets to build a frame around it, painted the wood and filled the tub with plants. It looks great; you’d never guess it was something otherwise destined for the rubbish dump. Upcycling seems a sensible and eco-friendly concept, and can also inform our purchasing habits. There are more and more companies out there who are upcycling old products and turning them in to everything from jewellery to garden furniture, paving to post-andrail fencing. So why not reimagine your waste today! “Nature does not know the concept of waste; the only species capable of making something no-one desires is the human species.” Gunter Pauli, Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives. Sara McNeill Saturday 28th September Individual & team competitions – lots of fun for all dogs! Barstobrick Indoor Arena, Ringford, Castle Douglas, DG7 2AT In aid of Dumfries & Galloway Canine Rescue Centre (Charity SCO31991) Entry forms from: www.caninerescue.co.uk/dogolympics Cllr Finlay Carson Castle Douglas & Glenkens for an appointment Tel: 07825 633 185 or email: finlay@finlaycarson.co.uk www.finlaycarson.co.uk GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL  01644 420234  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 jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 6 Glenkens Gazette page 7 Brian Jones, Community Projects Officer at the CatStrand, is keen to hear from residents in the Glenkens who are over sixty and would like to join the newlyformed Connecting in Retirement group to help define and implement activities and events. To date a number of activities have taken place or are ongoing. The Ukulele Group is proving very successful with participants building up a repertoire of songs and aiming to expand and perhaps join with a youth group of ukulele players. A trip was arranged to a Dumfries garden which was especially opened for the group. A ten-week Gentle Tai Chi course started on Tuesday 2 July, run in conjunction with Morag Curtis from the NHS Building Healthy Communities Stewartry Project. Sessions are aimed at helping folk with a long-term health condition. The hope is to have more of these sessions in outreach locations where Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) buses would be provided Other activities scheduled are: a free six-week ‘Taking the First Steps in Computing’ course starting from Monday 15 July. Starting Tuesday 30 July, a free ‘Let’s Cook’ four-week course is where participants can learn more about healthy eating, planning meals and cooking on a budget. Early October sees a one-day ‘Home Safety and Security Awareness Day’ in conjunction The Ukelele Group enjoying their session. Retiring in Style with the CatStrand with representatives from the Police, Fire Brigade and other associated Agencies. If you are interested in any of these activities or have ideas for other activities Brian would love to hear from you - feel free to call in to the CatStrand to have a cuppa and a chat with him, or get in touch on 420 374 or brian@catstrand.com £500 for Castle Douglas Hospital League of Friends Dalry Womens Rural Institute (WRI) had a wonderful 90th party. DANGEROUS LITTER Please think about others when you throw away litter which could be dangerous. On Wednesday 10 July a quantity of broken glass and litter had to be cleared from the ‘beach’ area on the far side of the wooden pedestrian bridge in Dalry. The glass was from Carlsberg and Magners cider bottles which seemed to have been opened by breaking the necks against a tree. In June there was also a lot of broken glass in Dalry children’s playpark from Vimto bottles; the fact that children will very likely be playing there with bare feet over the summer doesn’t bear thinking about... Broken glass is an obvious danger both to people and animals, particularly to children. Please dispose of litter responsibly. Balmaclellan Community Council meet on Monday 2 September at 8pm for their AGM followed by the usual agenda. All welcome. The Ladies Guild at St Margaret’s Church in New Galloway has given Castle Douglas Hospital League of Friends a cheque for £500. St Margaret’s Ladies Guild President, Christine Rankin, commented: “Following our successful Plant and Bake Sale in May, we were delighted to donate the proceeds to Castle Douglas Hospital through the League of Friends who do so much for the hospital and its patients. Many of our friends and neighbours have benefitted from the care at Castle Douglas Hospital and we are always happy to help in any way we can”. Glenkens Gazette page 8 Multicultural Shop Call-out I am now working at Dumfries & Galloway Multicultural Centre and, after witnessing the success of our Dalry Community Shop, I thought a similar community shop within the Multcultural Centre would be a good idea. The aim is to raise money and to aid the empowerment of members through improving their conversational English, promoting confidence, providing work experience and reducing social isolation. Most importantly, we want to create an atmosphere of happiness and fun. The shop will also stock Fairtrade goods and crafts and artwork by members, and welcome packs for people arriving from overseas to the region. I am looking for donations of any kind clothes, books, jewellery, pictures, general bric-a-brac, etc, as well as plant pots and plants to brighten up the front of the Centre. I also need volunteers to help run the shop, so if you know of anyone, send them my way. And next time you’re in Dumfries, come in and see me! The Centre is the Georgian sandstone building with stone steps and two pillars outside at the back of Marks & Spencers (Old Assembly Close, just off Irish Street). Many thanks, Gill Stanyard Aileen McLeod MSP working for you across the South of Scotland Postal address: Unit 7 Loreburn Shopping Centre High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2BD Email: aileen.mcleod.msp@scottish.parliament.uk Tel: 01387 255 334 Please check www.aileenmcleod.org for regular surgery, constituency and parliamentary updates Glenkens Gazette page 9 CatStrand Highlights The CatStrand has had a great summer so far, and the fun is set to continue with our line-up of events over the coming months. This season we will be making a contribution to the Scottish Alternative Games on Sunday 3 August with The Stu Brown Sextet. These outstanding musicians will be playing the jazz music of Raymond Scott, made recognisable from his work for the Loony Tunes Cartoons of the 1940s. This will take place on the evening of Saturday 2 August, and there will be an animation workshop earlier in the day to create visuals to accompany the performance. Classical music from The Jones Trio will take place on Friday 9 August; father and daughter cellists, Nicholas and Gabriella Jones join up with pianist John Thwaites to deliver a programme of Beethoven, Mozart and Debussy. We are also pleased to welcome Steven Osborne and Jean Johnson as part of the Watson Birds Festival on Friday 20 September. Steven Osborne is one of Britain’s foremost musicians, and we are Bargatton Sand & Gravel Supplying sand and gravel for all your farming needs, as well as households and businesses both large and small. In Stock: Sharp sand, building sand, washed gravels including peagravel and 20-40mm draining gravel. £15 per tonne + VAT. Aggregate mix £15.50 per tonne + VAT. For further details contact: Angus Wilson, Quarry Manager - 07715 606 685 James Mair - 07793 085 243 Email: loch.bargatton@live.co.uk Bargatton Quarry, Laurieston, Castle Douglas, DG7 2PS Open 7 days Mon-Fri Weekends by arrangement Delivery can be arranged - subject to quantity delighted that he will be giving a concert here. Dogstar Theatre present The Baroness on Wednesday 11 September starring the brilliant Roberta Taylor (pictured). Closely following this production will be another more contemporary style of theatre created by the multi-award-winning David Leddy. The comedy caper, Long Live the Little Knife, will be performed on Wednesday 18 September, a newly developed show with support from the RSC and the British Museum. We conclude the summer season programme with a special show from Roddy Hart and the Lonesome Fire, a group of young musicians from Glasgow who combine classic Americana with Celtic soul. Catch this up-and-coming group on Friday 27 September. 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 10 CHILDREN’S CLUB CELEBRATES FIRST YEAR Glenkens Children’s Club (GCC) celebrates its first birthday this July. It’s been a busy year for the group, which is going from strength to strength. More than 15 children routinely attend with their parents or carers during term time, enjoying the bikes, sand and water play, and plenty of dressing-up fun. A varied selection of activities is offered, from baking to planting, library sessions to painting and collage. And of course there’s always time for some very messy play! We’ve had an influx of new recruits in the shape of some adorable newborns, who have recently enjoyed a course of free Baby Massage and we’ve invested in some beautiful bright baby toys and equipment to make them feel just as at home as the toddlers. Another important aspect of the Club is holiday activities for all children up to secondary school age. This summer’s programme is jam-packed with events - take a look below to see what’s on, or visit our website (www. glenkenschildrensclub.co.uk) or find us on Facebook for further details. And then there’s our first birthday party! Come and celebrate with us on Friday 16 August, 9.15-11.45am for some party games, dancing, face painting and, of course, some birthday cake. Playgroup plans are progressing fast since we received the £10,000 grant from the Big Lottery Fund. We have staff appointed and Care Inspectorate registration is nearly complete. Playgroup will start on Tuesday 20 August and run on Tuesday and Thursday mornings in term-time, from 9.15-11.45am at the Dalry Community Centre. It is open to all children aged 2-4 and will cost £5 per session. Contact Helen Keron on keron@me.com for more details or to register a child. None of these things would have happened without the efforts of the amazing group of parents and carers that support GCC. I would like to thank them deeply for their moral and practical support over the past year. In particular I would like to thank the old and new members of the committee - with others, they routinely go above and beyond to ensure that the children of the area have these excellent facilities and activities available. GCC is an affiliated member of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT), and again I would like to thank the staff and board there for their ongoing support, which has been instrumental in allowing us to grow in this way. So do come along, have some fun, meet some grown-ups and make the second year even better than the first! Helen Keron, GCC Chair 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 Glenkens Gazette page 11 Glenkens Gazette page 12 Glenkens Gazette page 13 Glenkens Gazette page 14 Glenkens Gazette page 15 Sunny Sports Day A GREAT GRADING The sun was shining and a great day was had by all at the Dalry Nursery and Primary annual sports day. Mathew applied himself fully and his manners, dedication and attitude have been outstanding. A special thanks go to the other students who helped him achieve this. Now that the Senior students have managed to get the funding for mats, I am hoping to get the Carsphairn community to come together and help the Junior students put forward a proposal for funding for extra equipment. I am sure this will be a rewarding meeting, and a great learning experience for the Juniors as they will be included in decision-making about the Club. Dave Birdsall, Club Instructor Rhys and Christy in the beanbag race. The morning took the form of a potted sports event, including a variety of sporting activities such as throwing, jumping and agility. To round off the morning, the Nursery children took part in some traditional races. A picnic lunch was then held on the playing field, with parents and families enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. The afternoon session included traditional races. All the activities added up to earn points for the house teams. It was a close-run competition, with the winning house this year being Earlstoun. The girl sports champion was Emily (P7) and the boys sports champion was Cameron (P6). The school would like to thank Newton’s shop in Dalry, Tesco and the Co-op for providing fruit and water for refreshments, and the parents, friends and members of the community that came along to support the school. Carsphairn Tai Jitsu Club recently held its first grading. Mathew Dovaston achieved his yellow belt and was awarded a Distinction, which is the highest award when grading. Forest Schools Continued from front page... Part of the Forest Schools ethos is to allow children to assess risk independently to help them make safe decisions. Although taking the learning outside is a lot of fun, pupils had to make sure that they were being safe and responsible. Before we left for the forest, everyone had to dress in proper footwear and waterproof clothing and make sure that backpacks contained everything we needed that day. With help from leader Cecelia Franklin, pupils set boundaries and used rope to highlight any hazards. When it was time to leave the forest, everything was packed up and tidied away so that we would leave no trace. Carsphairn Primary would like to thank all the people that have made these sessions possible. The pupils are really hoping to return to Forest Schools in the autumn, when there should be fewer midges! In the future, it is hoped that all Glenkens Cluster schools, including Kells Primary and Dalry School, will also have the chance to experience outdoor learning the Forest Schools way. Walker McKenna BECK GOLDSMITH CatStrand youth worker Rebecca, aka Beck Goldsmith, is going from strength to strength with her music career. Rebecca says: “I’ve now signed a record contract. The deal is a partnership between a strong independent label and Island Records, so I get the backing of a major label but still keep a lot of independence and control - best of both worlds!” Her new album will be released in September, and will include the song I Vow to Thee My Country, originally used for a BBC TV trailer, as well as some other traditional songs with contemporary arrangements and some of her own original songs too. Glenkens Gazette page 16 Spare Room Doom KELLS NEWS This April heralded sweeping new changes in welfare reform. One of the changes, nicknamed the ‘bedroom tax’ by Labour, has been seen to have had the biggest effect on people. The new legislation affects residents in social housing who are of working age, that is, those aged over 16 and under 61, and who are in receipt of Housing Benefit. If a tenant has one spare room, their benefit will be cut by approximately 14% of the rent they pay each week (an average of £11). For two or more spare rooms, this percentage increase to 25% (an average of £20 per week). This leaves tenants liable to pay their landlord the difference between the housing benefit payment and their rent. Dumfries & Galloway Council has already responded to the implications of the bedroom tax by allocating £500,000 to help people who are facing financial difficulty due to the cuts. The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) has increased the money it gives the council for discretionary housing payments from £72,000 in 2012/13 to £232,000 for 2013/14. Discretionary housing payments are short-term awards given to help people pay their rent. Early indications show a significant increase in people applying for discretionary payments in March and April as a direct result of these changes. Local councillor Brian Collins, SNP councillor for the Glenkens ward, is chair of a new subcommittee created to support those affected. Brian commented on the discretionary housing payment fund: “The focus of this fund will be to assist those tenants who are unable to improve their current situation and have no alternative means to access funds. We want to support people who are experiencing financial difficulties as a result of welfare reform.” MSP Russell Brown points out that due to housing shortage in the region, many will suffer as there will be nothing they can do to avoid the cut. If you would like to apply for a descretionary housing payment, you can either apply online at http://www.dumgal.gov.uk/CH ttpHandler.ashx?id=4762&p=0 or can pick up a form from the local council office in Castle Douglas. Gillian Stanyard Kells Primary have had a busy summer season. At the annual Sports Day pupils all gave 100% during all the activities and races, with the Clatteringshaws team coming first. Clatteringshaws House Captains Erin McGaw and Mia Walker are pictured below with the Sports Day trophy. Kells Primary recently won the rounders competition at Crossmichael Primary’s Small School Sports Tournament. P5-7 pupils visited Dumfries Aviation Museum as part of their World War Two topic. The pupils were History Detectives, investigating local people who were stationed at the airbase during the war. Pupil Amberleigh HackwoodWilliams recently won an Energy Agency calendar competition organised in association with D & G Council. Her winning poster is used for the month of January in the calendar issued to all schools in the region. GLENKENS TO GLASTONBURY How did brothers Ben and Joe Cormack, heavy metal guitarists who grew up in Balmaclellan, end up playing at Glastonbury with The Pictish Trail? It’s a far cry from the early days of learning guitar at Kells Primary with Annie Winstanley and studying with Doug Carroll as teenagers. The connection is the Isle of Eigg, where Johnny Lynch, of band The Pictish Trail, now lives. Eigg has a thriving music culture and vibrant community, and the brothers returned there some years ago and built a house. “As The Pictish Trail,” Ben explained, “Johnny is the best-selling artist on the Fifebased label Fence Records, and mainly performs on his own. We have our own heavy metal band, The Massacre Cave, with two mainland friends, and when Fence Records held their first Away Game mini festival on Eigg four years ago, we were surprised to be asked to play. Johnny was really impressed by our set and that’s how it all began.” Another Eigg resident, drummer Brendan Greene, completes the line-up for The Pictish Trail’s band. Ben says: “It’s very odd to think that, after all the years of dedicated heavy metal practice, we found ourselves on the Park Stage as a folk backing band. Having said that, we bring a rock element to Johnny’s music, and literally let our hair down! He’s a very generous man, and it’s been great fun.” Asked what the best part of playing at Glastonbury was, Ben replied, “KT Tunstall said The Pictish Trail was the best act she’d seen all weekend.” The Pictish Trail will be playing at the CatStrand in October so book your ticket now! Glenkens Gazette page 17 Summer Fun CYCLING FUN Cool There’s loads going on at Cream Carsphairn School Parent Teacher Committee (PTC) along with Carsphairn Church Social Committee applied for funding from Carsphairn Renewable Energy Fund Ltd (CREFL) and arranged a day of mountain biking at Drumlanrig Castle for a group of pupils from P4 to S3. Despite a very damp start, a great day was had by all (including the parents who didn’t cycle but walked in the grounds), and hopefully this will be done again, as all the children had a great time. Thanks go to June Hay and Martin Temple for arranging the day, and also to Claire and Maggie for providing transport for the children. Maggie Phillips (Mrs) Some of the children with June and Martin. o’ Galloway this summer. New for 2013, Tractor & Trailer rides run daily in the school holidays, there are wildlife events during the week and you even have the chance to make your very own ice cream! The new Tractor & Trailer rides are proving popular, visiting the highest point of the farm for a fabulous view over the Galloway Hills and Fleet Bay. Everyone’s welcome to join in with ‘Pond Dipping’ on Tuesdays, ‘Night Mammal Explorer’ on Wednesdays and ‘Hedgerow Safari’ on Thursdays - plenty of opportunity to get up close and personal with the wildlife. ‘Ready Steady Freeze’ is a superb activity that continues to thrill both young and old! You can be the creator of your very own dream ice cream. This activity is fun for all, great for a birthday party for all ages, and even fantastic fun for a hen party or a family gathering! ‘Ready Steady Freeze’ runs each Monday to Thursday in July & August at 4pm or get in touch to book your own exclusive session for up to 18 people. Call 01557 815 222 or email lizzie@creamogalloway.co.uk to check availability, or check our website for details booking is strongly recommended for all events. Glenkens Gazette page 18 Clachan Fair Day rounded off a successful week of fun events for the whole family, young and old, in Dalry. Despite the rain, which didn’t stop people making most of the day, The Galloway Pipe and Drums Band led off the parade with the Clachan Lad and Lass following behind in a open-top car, kindly driven by Tom Corrie. After much deliberating, judge Jim Hume MSP gave first prize to Dalry Primary with their World War II evacuees theme, and Carsphairn Primary received the Silver Plate for best vehicle float with their Viking ship theme. Events on the school field saw the Fire Brigade getting hosed-down by the children. In the team games, a boys versus girls tug-o-war was won by the fairer sex. Later in the afternoon Jim Hume conducted the prize giving. Hilda McAdam won the best dressed house/window competition. Cameron Wilkie and Drife Finlay took the under 14s Doubles Tennis Tournament trophies (kindly sponsored by Natural Power), and Drife was the overall winner of the Mulloch Race with Joshua Lawrie being the first primary entry to finish. This year’s fair hosted for the first time a ‘Fun Show for Dogs’, which had over 28 entries and all dogs and owners behaved impeccably. Some other events which took place throughout the week were the Walking Teasure Hunt, Whist Galloway Pipe & Drums Band A Fair Success Drive and Pet Show. The finale on Saturday was an evening of Scottish Music in the Town Hall with Ewan McGowan, William Williamson and friends, which was much enjoyed by all. The Committee would like to say a big thank you to all the volunteers who took the time to help, and also to all the people and local businesses who gave so generously throughtout the week to make the 2013 Clachan Fair such a success. THE LIE OF THE LAND PROJECT Dumfries & Galloway has some of the most beautiful scenery anywhere in Scotland, but many of our youngsters pass through it every day and take it for granted. In addition, the attractions of the X-Box, Playstation, computer and mobile phone mean that fewer young people than previously now get outside to investigate the landscape which surrounds them. To redress the balance just a little, the Education Department of Dumfries & Galloway Council, together with the National Scenic Area (NSA), recently took 18 S2 pupils from four local secondary schools (including Dalry) into some of the most scenic locations across the Stewartry. Funded by the NSA together with the Holywood Trust and the schools themselves, this project was supported by film maker John Wallace and writer Jackie Galley who helped the young people express and record their responses to places as diverse as the Galloway Forest, Screel Hill and the Carrick Shore. Based at the Stronord Outdoor Centre, transport was courtesy of the Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI). The final outcomes of this project will be a booklet and a film which will receive its World Premiere in Castle Douglas Town Hall on the 27 of September. The Premiere, which has been incorporated into the inaugural Environmental Arts Festival Scotland, will be hosted by the pupils themselves, with an invited audience of over 250 due to attend. Keith Walker 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 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.  01556 502263  VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS FHB Fencing Dalry Domestic and Agricultural Fencing 01644 430 495 495 (Peter) or 07767 795 498 (Jonathan) Glenkens Gazette page 19 KELLS GTI SCHOOL RUN ENDS After six years of providing transport for pupils travelling to and from Kells School, Tuesday 2 July was the end of the road for this service operated by Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI). A review carried out by Dumfries & Galloway Council into school transport has meant that transport needs have been reduced and GTI have been asked to provide transport for pupils from Crossmichael to Castle Douglas instead. It is likely this service will be operated using a Rural Transport Solutions vehicle belonging to the Council, and will involve providing some transport in the Castle Douglas area to the Adult Resource Centre. Exact details are not yet known, but we have to remember that being involved in providing such MALAWI CYCLE Continued from front page... Mulanje hospital covers a population of 55,000 people, many in isolated villages with little or no health care and massive problems caused by Aids, mother and infant mortality during birth, malaria in the wet season and general malnutrition. 66% of all admissions are Aidsrelated and the population of Malawi is 50% children due to Family and friends coming to stay? transport must remember this is our financial bread-and-butter, and without such income we would not be able to cater for the needs of people in the Glenkens. NEW WEDNESDAY EVENING TIMETABLE With effect from Wednesday 7 August, the service operated from Dalry into Castle Douglas and back will have a slightly different timetable. The bus will still leave Underhill, Dalry, at 7pm, but will return from Castle Douglas at 8.35pm, arriving back in Dalry at 9.15pm – a lot better in the winter evenings, and you will still get the same amount of time for your shopping. Full details of new timetable are shown on p22. MORE AND MORE TRANSPORT The last few weeks have seen a record number of requests for transport and we have never said ‘no’ – not yet! We recently supplied transport for a new the affects of Aids. However, life expectancy has gone up from an average of 37 to 57 years, so progress is being made. Ian goes on to say: “You wouldn’t credit this backdrop of human misery as the people of Malawi are so friendly, spontaneous and happy. They have a very communal approach to life, much of which goes on along the roadside so cycling through gave us a good opportunity to witness it. Often we would be cycling project run over three days by the Education Department involving pupils from Dalry School and other schools in the area. The group stayed at Stronord Educational Centre (see article on p18, opposite). FORTHCOMING TRIPS More trips will hopefully be added in due course but the following are dates for your diaries (to book call 01644 420 374): Sat 7 Sept – Glasgow: Silverburn, Braehead, or visit the city centre by ferry! Sat 12 Oct – Carlisle Sat 2 Nov – Ayr: Shopping, Nat Hunt Racing, etc. Sat 7 Dec – Glasgow: Kelvingrove area, but easy access to city centre, etc. Thank you to those new drivers who have volunteered to help us – we still need more and free training is still available, so please get in touch with me if you can help. Keith Cooper, GTI Administrator along with Malawians carrying a goat strapped to their bike or other huge loads of sugar cane, maize, etc. “The bike ride took us through some stunning and varied African scenery. The challenge was very well managed and we were very well looked after by our tour guide Henck, his Kenyan and Malawian helpers, our tour doctor and EMMS (the organising charity) representative.” N ew Galloway Short of space? Golf Club Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 or 07789 903127 Founded Foun ded 1902 v 01644 420737 v Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Glenkens Gazette page 20 FIRST WORLD WAR CENTENARY COMMEMORATIONS I believe the time is right to discuss how the people of the Glenkens wish to commemorate the centenary of the outbreak of World War One. Many groups and organisations are now beginning their plans and Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grants may be available if their criteria can be met. I have already approached a few groups and individuals who I thought might have useful ideas and have been encouraged so far, including receiving a supportive mail from Alex Fergusson MSP. Therefore, I have arranged an informal meeting where views can be aired and we can see if there are sufficient grounds to continue. It might make sense to organise a small programme of events. Some ideas are: a minibus trip around the WW1 war memorials of the Glenkens, a bus trip to the Scottish National War Memorial in Edinburgh Castle, guest speakers for a talk(s) in the CatStrand, research/display into how life in the Glenkens changed during and immediately after the first world war, a school bus trip to Devil’s Porridge exhibition and possibly Quintinshill rail disaster, Glenkens children create a memorial plaque/stone/sculpture. Activities would be either recorded (for DVD) or published as a book, whichever is most suitable, and this would form a permanent record of how we commemorated the centenary. Hopefully each item would be either subsidised or funded in full by an HLF grant. The meeting is to be in the CatStrand Cafe on Tuesday 3 September at 4pm. Coffee or Tea is on me. I would be grateful if you could come along with your ideas, or contact me if you cannot make the meeting: centenary@paulgoodwin.me.uk or 07973 174342. Paul Goodwin, Dalry Busy Time at the Golf Club The last couple of months have been very busy at New Galloway Golf Club. We started with Give Golf a Go, a day geared to encouraging would-be golfers to come and have a go. Then the Kirkcudbrightshire Golfers Association held its Stroke Play Some of the seniors at the Seniors Open enjoying themselves. and Match Play Championship on the course. The Kirkcudbrightshire Golfers Association Team Championship also took place on the course, with seven teams from the area competing for the Shield. The New Galloway Team was leading up to the last group when Ross Murray recorded a 68 to take the Shield for Southerness. All the players from the other clubs commented on how good the condition of the course was. Two of our Juniors, Scott Jamieson and Alex Long, competed in the Kirkcudbrightshire Junior Championship around the Kirkcudbright course. Playing in testing conditions, both boys played particularly well with Alex coming second in the Scratch Competition and Scott coming in eighth in the Handicap Competition. 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 Captain’s Day saw 40 members enjoy the competition and then refreshments in the clubhouse, where the presentation of prizes took place. The Jack McQueen Quaich was won by Terry Haine, Erica Porteous was the leading lady, the winning junior was Alex Long and the winning guest was Michael Sutcliffe. The Seniors Open attracted players from near and far, with over 50 people taking part on a beautiful summer’s day. The Open Championship, sponsored by Natural Power, also attracted a good entry from the area and scores were excellent. We are now well through the season, but if you are inspired to come and join the Club get in touch on 01644 420 737 or visit www.nggc.co.uk. Jeff, Captain & Match Secretary Glenkens Gazette page 21 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN The Man Who Founded New Galloway Sir John Gordon of Lochinvar (15991634), founder of New Galloway, did not live to see his dream realised. He was the son of Sir Robert Gordon who was the inspiration in 1622 behind the proposed colonization of New Galloway (now Cape Breton) in Nova Scotia, and who “built ships destined to propagate the fame of the Scottish name” beyond the Equator. John was held responsible, along with his enterprising father, for the illegal seizure of a ship of Middelburg, capital of Zeeland, and its cargo. This was profoundly embarrassing for Charles I who wished at that time to maintain good relations with the Netherlands. From his father he also inherited savage feuds with the families of Herries and the Earls of Galloway, both sides having to put up sums of 20,000 merks as guarantees of good behaviour. In fact Sir John Gordon appears to have been of rather a docile nature. While he was growing up his family stayed at Rusco, near Gatehouse of Fleet, as well as at Greenlaw, at the foot of Loch Ken and, of course, Kenmure Castle which he was credited with “having brought to the perfection of a complete fabric as it never was before”. As a young man he resided for a time in France with the somewhat crazed evangelical minister, John Welch who was exiled by James VI for his radical religious views. As patron of Anwoth, Gordon attempted to persuade the covenanting minister John Livingstone to accept the charge and, when he declined, it was offered to Samuel Rutherford, one of the giants of the Covenanting revolution. Welch, Livingstone and Rutherford all figure in John Howie’s hugely influential Scots Worthies (1775), a collection of the biographies of those who served and/or suffered on behalf of the Scottish Reformation. Surprisingly perhaps, Sir John Gordon finds a place in the book too, largely because his friend, Rutherford, tended him in his dying months and wrote ‘The Last and Heavenly Speech and Glorious Departure of John Viscount Kenmuir’ (1649). The theme concerns Kenmure’s fears which gradually turn to joy and certainty as he prepares to meet Christ, ‘coming leaping over the mountains and skipping over the hills’. In 1633 the king, in Scotland for his coronation, created him Viscount of Kenmure and Lord of Lochinvar but since he disagreed with Charles in matters of politics and religion he withdrew from Edinburgh supposedly on account of his wife’s ill-health. He later claimed that he feared “incurring the indignation of my prince and the loss of further honour”. According to Rutherford he deeply regretted his action on his deathbed, whence he warned “it is pure popery is coming among you”. Such divided loyalties would haunt the House of Kenmure until the execution of the sixth Viscount in 1716. In 1629 Kenmure was granted a charter to erect a royal burgh to be called the burgh of Galloway on a part of the barony of Earlston, lying upon the Water of Ken. Commentators have always assumed that the geographical description refers to Dalry though the village is not specifically mentioned in the document. Almost two years later Sir John changed his mind about the site when another charter allowed for the creation of a royal burgh on part of the lands of Roddings in the barony of Kenmure. The new site was probably preferred because the river ceased to be navigable north of Loch Ken. Robert Gordon, of Knockbrex, is listed as burgh commissioner of ‘Newgalloway’ in the parliament of June 1633 which also ratified the earlier charter authorizing “ane hail and frie burgh royall to be callit in all tyme coming the burgh of Galloway’” By 1648 New Galloway, sometimes known as Newton, had a provost, one James Gordon. In a taxation rolL for 1649 the burgh was among those that paid the least monthly amount. It was never to reach its hoped-for potential but it is of interest to note that a New Galloway in Canada had been named some eight years before there was a New Galloway in Galloway! Ted Cowan JEFFERS THE GARDENER SAYS... ...The best way to raise a successful garden is by trowel and error! ...Nothing discourages an allotment keeper more than watching his family eat the entire allotment at one meal. ...A gardener is a woman who loves flowers, or a man who hates weeds. ...April showers bring May flowers - with the help of spading, fertilizing, planting, watering and weeding! Glenkens Gazette page 22 AUGUST & SEPTEMBER JULY Starts Mon 15, six-week ‘Taking the First Steps in Computing’ course, see p7 Mon 22, Glenkens Children’s Club: ‘Arty Crafty’ Workshop, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, 9.1511.45am, see p19 Fri 26, Glenkens Children’s Club: Roller Disco, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, 9.15-11.45am, see p19 Mon 29, Glenkens Children’s Club: Treasure Hunt, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, 9.15-11.45am, see p19 Starts Tues 30, four-week ‘Let’s Cook’ course, see p7 AUGUST Fri 2, Glenkens Children’s Club: Window Decoration Making, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, 9.1511.45am, see p19 Sat 3, The Stu Brown Sextet: Twisted Toons - The Music of Raymond Scott, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sun 4, Scottish Alternative Games, start 2pm, New Galloway Town Park Mon 5, Glenkens Children’s Club: Outdoor Activity/Bouncy Castle, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, 9.15-11.45am, see p19 Wed 7, Open Stage,7.30pm, CatStrand Thurs 8, Apollo5 in Concert, Dalry Town Hall, 7.30pm Fri 9, The Jones Trio, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 9, Glenkens Children’s Club: Jewellery Making, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, 9.1511.45am, see p19 Sat 10, Glenkens Show, Mains of Kenmure, New Galloway, see ad below Mon 12, Glenkens Children’s Club: Baking, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, 9.15-11.45am, see p19 Fri 16, Glenkens Children’s Club: 1st Anniversary Birthday Party, Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, 9.1511.45am, see p19 Fri 16, Film: Song for Marion, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 23, Jaipur Kawa Brass Band & Curry Night, 7.30pm, CatStrand SEPTEMBER Mon 2, Balmaclellan CC AGM, 8pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall Tues 3, Centenary Commemoration Meeting, 4pm, CatStrand Café, see p20 Wed 4, Gordie MacKeeman & His The Alternative Games The Games return to New Galloway Town Park once more on Sunday 4 August for the 13th year. After the rather aquatic nature of last year’s televised event, it is to be hoped that it will be lucky thirteen and the weather will be a bit kinder this time around. All of the usual favourites will be featured, with everyone having the opportunity to compete for the Gird n’ Cleek World Title as well as take part Glenkens Agricultural Society Annual Show Saturday 10th August Mains of Kenmure, New Galloway Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Poultry, Horses, Show Jumping, Fancy Dress Pony, Pets & Dogs, Crookmaking, Refreshments, Children’s Entertainer - Magic Monty - Magic & Balloon Modelling Schedules from Fiona McIntyre: 01848 200 531 or fiona_mcintyre@hotmail.co.uk Rhythm Boys, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 7, GTI Bus Trip, Glasgow: Silverburn, Braehead, see p19 Wed 11, Dogstar Theatre: The Baroness - Karen Blixen’s Final Affair by Thor Bjorn Krebs, 7.30pm, CatStrand Wed 18, David Leddy/Fire Exit: Long Live the Little Knife, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 20, Steven Osborne and Jean Johnson, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 20 to Sun 22, Watson Birds Festival, mainly in Dalry, see back page Sun 22, Gerry Cambridge Poetry Reading, 2pm, CatStrand Thurs 26, Film: The Great Gatsby, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 27, Roddy Hart and the Lonesome Fire, 7.30pm, CatStrand 27 Sept – 6 Oct, Wigtown Book Festival, see p8 Sat 28, Dog Olympics, Barstobrick Indoor Arena, Ringford, see p5 OCTOBER Sat 12, GTI Bus Trip, Carlisle, see p19 Advance Notice of Youth Players’ Panto: This year’s production will be ‘Aladdin’ on Fri 6 & Sat 7 Dec at 7.30pm, and Sun 8 Dec at 2pm at the CatStrand. in the Tossin’ the Sheaf, Hurlin’ the Curlin’ Stane, Balmaclellan Skittles and Tractor Pull. The racing snails are already in training and will be at peak fitness for their big day! If you would prefer to try something musical rather than physical, then you can learn to play the samba drums in time to perform with the rest of the band later in the afternoon. Whatever instrument you play, bring it along and enjoy playing with fellow musicians in the Acoustic Music Tent. See the back page of this Gazette for further details. Brian Edgar GTI WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE (registered route) New times start Wed 7 August. Outward Journey: 19:00 Dept. Dalry (Underhill) 19:05 New Galloway 19:15 Mossdale 19:25 Laurieston 19:30 Townhead of Greenlaw 19:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) Return journey: 20:35 Dept. Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 20:47 Townhead of Greenlaw 21:50 Laurieston 21:00 Mossdale 21:10 New Galloway 21:15 Dalry To book a Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) bus or for more information please contact keith cooper, GTI Administrator, on 01644 420 374. Glenkens Gazette page 23 REGULAR EVENTS CatStrand (New Galloway): Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am Margaret Morris Movement Adult Dance Class, Mon, 2.30-3.30pm, contact Sara on 01556 612854 Children’s Dance Class: Mon during term time, 3.45-4.45pm age 3-7, 4.30-5.30pm age 8-15 Carers’ Coffee & Chat: Tues, 10am-12noon Teen Spirit: Tues during term time, 7-8:30pm (P7 - S3) and 8-9:30pm (S3+, Duke of Edinburgh) 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 Zumbatomic, last Sat each month,10-10.45am Catstrand Youth Players: Sun during term time, 2pm Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, last Sun of the month, 2-4pm Glenkens Community Centre (Dalry): (contact Kath 430 281) Glenkens Children’s Club: Mon & Fri, 9.15-11.45am Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm & Wed, 7-9pm “The Gazette was a great way to advertise my new business - Lion Heart Confidence. I got calls from potential Ballroom & Latin clients almost straight away. It’s great Dance Class: Mon, 7.15, for more info value for money and a good read, making call Sam Rushton on it an enjoyable way to stay connected and 420 672 share information in our community.” Gill Good Neighbours’ Club: Tues, 2pm Kickback Martial Arts: Thurs, 7-9pm Thursday Craft Group: Thurs, 24pm Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm Guides: Tue during term-time, 6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281 Various Locations: Texas Hold ‘em Poker, Mon, 7.15pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.4511.15am, New Galloway Town Hall Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Dog Training: Tue & Wed, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. Contact: Eric 460 670 Tai Jitsu: Wed, Junior Class (age 6-14), 6-7pm; Senior Class, 78.30pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn, contact David on 07547 134 276, see p5 Wednesday Quiz Night, Wed, Glenkens Community Councils Balmaclellan Community Council Meetings: 3rd Monday each month, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall. Carsphairn Community Council Meetings: Last Monday each month, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn. Dalry Community Council Meetings: 1st Monday each month, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. New Galloway & Kells Community Council Meetings: 2nd Monday each month, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall. Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library. CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon: 1st. Carsphairn: 10.30am: 1st,2nd (Aug),3rd,4th, 5th (Sept). Dalry: 9am: 1st,2nd(Aug),3rd, 4th. Dalry: 10.30am: 2nd(Sept). Kells: 10.30am: 2nd (Aug),3rd,4th Special Services/Events: 8 Sept, 10.30am, United Family Service, Dalry Church, followed by a bbq & children’s treasure hunt, Manse, Dalry. 22 Sept, 10.30am, Harvest Thanksgiving, Kells Church, followed by Harvest Lunch in NG Town Hall. 29 Sept, 10.30am, United Service with Glenkens Choir, Carsphairn Church Communion Service: 25 Aug, 10.30am, Kells 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 8.30pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Stewartry Camera Club: Wed, 7.30pm, Ringford Village Hall, runs Wed 11 Sept till end Mar 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 Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Folk Music Session: 1st Sat each month, 8pm, The Clachan Inn, Dalry Dalry Library (Tel: 430 234) Opening Times: 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 please phone. ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 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 Glenkens Gazette page 24 FESTIVAL - FRIDAY 20 TO SUNDAY 22 SEPTEMBER Friday 6-8pm ‘Watson Raptor Science Prize’ (Presentation, Talk & Debate) official Festival opening, Dalry Town Hall 8pm - Classical Concert with Steven Osborne & Jean Johnson, CatStrand, New Galloway. Saturday 8.30am-12noon - Bird Ringing with Andrew Bielinski, Barone, Dalry 10am-12noon - Guided Walk with Chris Rollie, meet outside Dalry Town Hall 10am-4pm Exhibition/Shadow Puppetry with Anne Errington, Dalry Town Hall 10am-6pm - Photography Masterclass, various venues (limited availability) 2-5pm - ‘History of Eagles in Britain & Ireland’ Presentation and Discussion, Lochinvar Hotel, Dalry 6 -8pm - Laurie Campbell; Talk & Discussion, CatStrand, New Galloway 7-10pm - Whistlebinkies in Concert, Dalry Town Hall Sunday 10.30-11.30am - Gerry Cambridge Poetry Workshop (Ages 7-12) 10am-4pm Exhibition/Shadow Puppetry with Anne Errington, Dalry Town Hall. 10am-6pm - Photography Masterclass, various venues (limited availability) 1pm - Demonstration with Darren Woodhead, Dalry Town Hall 2-3pm - Gerry Cambridge; Poetry Readings, CatStrand, New Galloway 4-6pm – Acoustic Session, Clachan Inn, Dalry For any further information or tickets please call The Catstrand on 01644 420 374 and ask for Aaron or alternatively e-mail - aaron@watsonbirds.org or visit the Watson Bird website - www.watsonbirds.org. Wright’s Shop Dalry G&M Newton now under new ownership. New proprietor Lyndsay Forbes and her family look forward to meeting everyone and settling into life in the Glenkens. Licenced grocer and newsagent with a wide range of filled rolls, pies, cold drinks and ice cream also available. Opening Times: Monday to Friday: 7am – 6pm Saturday: 8am – 6pm Sunday: 8.30am – 4pm Tel: 01644 430 225 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 OCT/NOV COPY DEADLINE: FRI 6 SEPT Design & co-ordination: Sarah Ade sarah_ade@tiscali.co.uk Printing:Stranraer & Wigtownshire Free Press The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No. SC032050  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette 77 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_077 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 2013 Description An account of the resource Editor: Sarah Ade https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/224/GlenkensGazette78.pdf 2e494f3fa389ba35be7d93aa2b20b533 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 78 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry October/November 2013 ISSUE 78 FREE CARSPHAIRN SHOP RE-OPENS The Carsphairn shop and tearoom is open again. The communityowned business re-opened on Wednesday 4 September after a four month closure. The unexpected ill health of the tenant, Linda Szafran, had forced her and her husband to end the tenancy early. Linda and Chris, who had run the shop for over nine years, were enthusiastic in their support of local events and were very much part of the community. Carsphairn Village Shop Limited (CVSL), that owns and manages the shop on behalf of Carsphairn community, immediately took steps to find a new tenant and in August it was announced that the successful applicant was Christine Lockhart, together with her husband Ian (pictured). Christine, originally from Kirkconnel, has spent the last 20 years in Girvan with Ian, a Dunscore lad. Story by Sara McNeill, continued on page 16... COUNCIL CUTS THREATEN COMMUNITY CENTRE Dumfries & Galloway Council has withdrawn funding support for the Glenkens Community Centre in Dalry from 2014. The decision is the result of an ongoing review of leisure services in Dumfries and Galloway. The council needs to save £200,000 from its leisure services budget and is doing this by closing a number of town halls and community centres across the region. The council’s aim is to have ‘fewer but better’ services of this kind. Local groups, however, feel that having a ‘better’ facility somewhere else will, given the limited public transport links available, have no positive impact on their way of life. Glenkens Community Centre is currently home to Brownies, Guides, an art group, a craft group, a karate club, the Good Neighbours club and Glenkens Children’s Club and GCC Playgroup. The closure would have impact across the community, from tiny babies to people of 80+ years. It is used about a 1000 hours a year, or an average of three hours a day every day, so is well-used and supported by the community. The good news for A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve the community is that the centre is not being unilaterally shut, as is the case in other areas. Because of the high usage levels, the council has offered to sell the centre to its Management Committee for a nominal sum in early 2014. This would mean that the centre has to pay for its electricity and cleaning itself, which can be managed by raising the rents, but also accept responsibility for maintaining this old and complicated building which is not water-tight at present due to various ongoing issues with the windows and roof. Taking on the centre would be a big responsibility involving large sums of money which would have to be raised through grant applications. Continued on page 19... www.glenkensgaze�e.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 Local Playgroup Running Again Last year the Glenkens Playgroup was forced to close due to council funding cuts but, just a year later, hard-working mums have managed to re-establish a Playgroup two mornings a week. The GCC Playgroup, affiliated with the Glenkens Childrens Club (GCC), opened its doors to eight children aged from two to four on Tuesday 20 August at the Glenkens Community Centre in Dalry. Helen Keron, Chair of the Playgroup, said: ”We are excited to see all the hard work on grant applications and Care Inspectorate registration over the last year pay off and to see the Playgroup open again. We said there was an ongoing demand for the Playgroup when the council pulled its funding in 2012, forcing its closure, and we were right, especially with more families expected to move to the new houses in Dalry. “The children love it, and it’s so important for them to start learning to play away from mum and dad or their carer at this critical age of two. “Thanks again to everyone who has supported us in this effort, we really do appreciate it.” Lucy Hermon and Gemma Green are the new Playgroup staff. Lucy said: “I feel really lucky to be getting to spend time with the children. They are amazing! It has been exciting researching topics and activities to encourage enjoyable learning experiences. We are very grateful to have the Community Centre, with such excellent facilities and toys to offer the children. This agegroup is creative and engaging, and we hope to build on these qualities by facilitating a happy, positive learning environment.” GCC Playgroup is funded by the Big Lottery Fund and at present is secured for one academic year, although the committee expects to start grant applications soon to secure further funding. It is open 9.20-11.50am on Tuesday and Thursday mornings during WELCOME BRIAN The new Glenkens Community and Arts Trust (GCAT) General Manager is that weel kent Glenkens personality, Brian Edgar. There cannot be many people in the Glenkens who have not come across Brian at some point, either through his work as a financial adviser (which he continues to do) or through his many voluntary roles. He grew up at Kirkland Farm in Dalry and followed his father, Tommy, onto the amateur dramatic stage, where he developed a life-long love for drama and the arts. He has been involved in the development of the CatStrand and of the Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) from the start. He now faces the task of moving GCAT forward at a time when there are a number of exciting challenges to be faced. I know that Brian has the energy, commitment and organisational skills that will be needed as the GCAT umbrella grows to cover new projects and developments in existing ones: his tireless voluntary work in the community with people of all ages has demonstrated that. He will, of course, be assisted by the many excellent volunteers and employees on whom the success of GCAT depends. I hope that everybody in the Glenkens will give Brian, and the GCAT teams in all the projects, the support they need and deserve. Andrew Mellor, GCAT Chairman term-time to children aged 2-4, and each session costs £5. It is held at the Glenkens Community Centre, opposite Dalry School. The Glenkens Children’s Club runs in the same premises, catering for children of all ages (accompanied by a parent/carer) on Monday and Friday mornings throughout the year. GCC and GCC Playgroup are projects under the Glenkens Community and Arts Trust (GCAT) umbrella, and would like to thank the board and staff of GCAT for their ongoing support. For more information contact Helen Keron on keronh@me.com. To register a child for Playgroup, contact Lucy Hermon, GCC Playgroup Manager, on lucy@gccplaygroup.co.uk The new GCC Playgroup in action A local Playgroup is once again running in the Glenkens. THANK YOU Thanks to Carsphairn Renewable Energy Fund Ltd (CREFL) for their grant of £300 towards Gazette running costs and our first ever Gazette-dedicated computer. MUGA FOR HIRE The MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) behind Dalry School is available for hire outwith school hours. It is a great community facility for anyone in the Glenkens wanting to play some tennis or a friendly football game and, from only £5 per hire (call for details), provides great value for money. Dalry Community Council is now responsible for bookings - for more information or to hire the MUGA, please call Sonja Tranter on 430 244 or Nicolette Wise on 430 218. Glenkens Gazette page 3 Photo of the Issue: ‘Thoughts of Summer’ Sponsored by the Ken Bridge Hotel This issue’s winner is Jeff Sutcliffe with a striking photograph of a peacock butterfly contrasting beautifully against yellow sunflowers. Dave and Sue of the Ken Bridge Hotel, judges of the Photo of the Issue Competition, said: “This picture is so poignant; as autumn draws upon us, this is a reminder of the beautiful summer we have just had.” Jeff will receive a meal for two at the Ken Bridge Hotel Sunday Carvery. Send in your entries for the next issue and it could be you next time! We will keep all entries on file and if they suit a future theme/season, they will be re-considered. Carsphairn Coffee & Crafts Carsphairn has set up a coffee morning to meet on a Thursday. This was originally created to support the Post Office, which is also at Lagwyne Hall and is open between 9.30 and 11.30am. A craft group has developed alongside the coffee morning, exchanging tips, advice and sympathy. The gathering is informal between 9.30am and 12noon every Thursday and everybody is welcome, whether they are a crafter or not. For more information email Ruth at ruth.kensglen@gmail.com or phone 460 516, or just pop in for a cuppa, a friendly welcome and see what’s happening. THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL New Galloway Open 7 Days Beautiful Riverside Location MEALS SERVED 12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm Renowned Ken Bridge Sunday Lunch Carvery, ‘The Best in the West’, now in its 8th year. Bed & breakfast en suite accommodation 01644 420 211 mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk ww.kenbridgehotel.co.uk Bargatton Sand & Gravel Supplying sand and gravel for all your farming needs, as well as households and businesses both large and small. In Stock: Sharp sand, building sand, washed gravels including peagravel and 20-40mm draining gravel. £15 per tonne + VAT. Aggregate mix £15.50 per tonne + VAT. For further details contact: Angus Wilson, Quarry Manager - 07715 606 685 James Mair - 07793 085 243 Email: loch.bargatton@live.co.uk Bargatton Quarry, Laurieston, Castle Douglas, DG7 2PS Open 7 days Mon-Fri Weekends by arrangement Delivery can be arranged - subject to quantity Glenkens Gazette page 4 sponsored by EVERYTHING listed in the Glenkens Freecycle section is FREE - you just need to contact the owner and go and pick it up! If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch with Sarah on 07727 127 997 or email glenken sgazette@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. Various Kilner screw-top glass jars for bottling or storage. Six 1 litre size, three 1/2 litre. Call 01644 420267 Three boxes of bubble wrap and air pocket packaging. Contact: Helen on 07789 693 698 Cycle rack. Suitable for hatchback car. Contact: Nigel on 460 545 Wine and cheese tray. Unused gift. Contact: Kath on 460 545 Red post box, old but serviceable. Contact: 460 516 Grey swivel office chair (armchair type). Contact: 460 516 Plastic mop bucket, unused. Front and rear car mats – would suit small car. Contact Kath on 460545 Barrow full of chunky sawdust. Contact: Emma on 07884 131 787 Furniture Two G-plan chairs, beige, 1 ladies and 1 gents. Contact: Martin on 430 526 Electrical HP Laserjet 1100 printer. A4 format plus a spare cartridge. Contact: Ian on 420 324 before 6pm Kodak colour cartridges 10 C X 2 wrong order from Amazon brand new. Contact: John on 430 539 Electrolux ‘Superbroom’ lightweight upright vacuum cleaner. Contact: Kath on 460 545 Epson Photo 1200 inkjet printer plus two colour cartridges and a Wright’s Shop Dalry Licensed grocer and newsagent with a wide range of filled rolls, pies, cold drinks and ice cream also available. Opening Times: Monday to Friday: 7am – 6pm Saturday: 8am – 6pm Sunday: 8.30am – 4pm Tel: 01644 430 225 “The Freecycle page in the Glenkens Gazette is such a great resource. We all seem to acquire a lot of ‘stuff’ over the years, much of which gets buried in a cupboard and forgotten. By putting your ‘no longer wanted’ items in Freecyle you can free-up valuable space at home and it is a great feeling when someone rings up sounding really excited about acquiring your battered old shelves, chimney pot covers, broken strimmer or too-small riding boots (all these items we could have found homes for several times over in the last year).” Nicolette CD, A3 format. Contact: Ian on 420 324 before 6pm UHF indoor antenna/aerial for digital or analogue TV reception. Contact: Nigel on 460 545 A BT Response 55 answering machine. Contact: Ian on 420 324 before 6pm 39.5cm x 55.5cm. Contact: Sue on 07563 718 011 Building/DIY WANTED Stainless steel double sink complete with monobloc tap. Good condition. Can be uplifted from Dalry. Contact: 430 387 5 Hollow concrete blocks (18 X 9) and 3 hollow concrete blocks (9 X 9). For collection from Dalry. Contact: Paul on 07973 174 342 White bathroom suite including electric shower and over bath screen. Can be seen currently installed but being taken out midOct. Contact: Alan on 07769 680 938 2 modern pine cupboard doors, Gardening Three Field Maple trees and one Horse Chestnut tree, all about 1.5m and in pots need a good home! Contact: Bob on 430 281 Crystalyx Tubs. Don’t leave them blowing around in the field - they are great for growing tomatoes! Contact: Bob on 430 281 Wanted - up to 70 used red bricks for garden edging, able to collect. Contact: Paul on 07973 174 342 Drum kit wanted plus stands symbols, etc. Contact: Gareth on gareth181982@msn.com Jam jars, preferably with lids. Contact: 420 267 Looking for an old bike; ladies or gents. Contact: Roger on 01556 680 338 Glenkens Gazette After a cold winter and very cold, late, spring, I expected nothing more than what we’ve become accustomed to in recent years – a soaking wet summer. What a pleasant surprise we all had! Though we had May (hawthorn) blossom and bluebells in June – fully a month late - nature caught up and lapped up the bounties of dry, even warm, weather. On my evening walks down the Water of Ken at Dalry, I could almost feel the relief in the bird and insect world. Seemingly endless broods of siskins, redpolls, long-tailed tits, mavis – even the sand martins had young (they were washed out three or four times last spring). Some weeks later, in late July, I wandered deep in thought along the Ken flood bank near the confluence with Garroch Burn and Glenlee outlets, sometimes page 5 a good spot for dippers. Almost subconsciously, I became aware of a rippling flickering noise over the water and was immediately transported back over 40 years to hearing a similar sound floating over the Afton Water on a hazy August day near my boyhood home at New Cumnock. Although I hadn’t consciously remembered the scene in the interim, I could now perfectly recall it. I remember looking up and seeing something flying - thinking it must be some small mechanical model aeroplane, it was so loud but no, it was an insect, probably a common hawker or golden-ringed dragonfly, with a damaged wing making the noise. Lost in these thoughts of yesteryear, I now looked over the Ken fully expecting to see the same but, although I continued to hear it, I couldn’t pick out the beast (even with my specs on!). Frustration was setting in and, as I stood gazing fruitlessly over the water, it dawned on me that the sound was nothing other than the crackling of overhead cables ����������������������������������������������������� • 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 **NEW** Yorkshire Building Society Agency – Now Open 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. carrying current from Glenlee power station! I continued on down the bank and, not for the first time, marvelled at the wonders of the human brain in somehow being able to store memories from long ago that seem long lost, until triggered by something. Just how does this work, I wonder? Perhaps we’ll never know. Chris Rollie APOLOGY The Gazette would like to sincerely apologise for any implied association between the Eco Feature article in the printed issue of the October/ November issue of the Gazette and the page’s sponsor, Natural Power. The article was purely an opinion piece attributed to a reader, and in no way reflected the views of the Glenkens Gazette or of Natural Power Consultants Ltd. Aileen McLeod MSP working for you across the South of Scotland Postal address: Unit 7 Loreburn Shopping Centre High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2BD Email: aileen.mcleod.msp@scottish.parliament.uk Tel: 01387 255 334 Please check www.aileenmcleod.org for regular surgery, constituency and parliamentary updates Glenkens Gazette page 6 Glenkens Gazette page 7 Monday 9 September saw the official opening of the Jubilee Path and Picnic Area in the centre of Mossdale. A ribbon at the Village Hall end of the path was cut by lifelong resident Mr John Halliday, whose father was largely responsible for organising the fundraising and building of the Hall in the 1940’s (see photo of Mr Halliday cutting the ribbon). Plaques at the picnic area were then unveiled by local MSP, Alex Fergusson. The land was very kindly donated to the village in 1946 by Miss Henniker-Hughan of Airds Estate to enable a village hall to be erected with the surrounding ground used for recreation by inhabitants of the Mossdale area. The path and picnic area, which adjoins the Red Kite car park, were created to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, made possible by a generous grant from the Big Lottery Fund (Awards for All). Granite for the picnic area bench was kindly donated by Mr James Ingall (great nephew of Miss Henniker-Hughan) from Photograph by Jill Haslam Mossdale Jubilee Path and Picnic Area a platform of the former New Galloway Station. In keeping with the railway theme, the picnic area is edged with wooden sleepers. The scheme was designed and built by Mr John Robson of Crossmichael. UP A DEGREE Abbas Rest Appeal A Carsphairn resident has proved that life doesn’t just begin at 40, but that a new working life can start at over 50... Kath Martin has just gained her BSc degree in mental health nursing from the University of Western Scotland in Ayr after three years of intense study. She started work at Ailsa Hospital in Ayr as a nursing assistant when she moved to Carsphairn from Lancashire almost five years ago. “Working at a special needs facility in Lancashire was very rewarding and, as soon as I started work at Ailsa Hospital, I knew that I wanted to develop my knowledge and skills in mental health nursing,” Kath said. During her three years of study Kath has been on various job placements, but she most enjoyed working at the acute admissions ward at Crosshouse Hospital in Kilmarnock. Kath is now working as a nursing assistant at Crosshouse Hospital until her full registration comes through, which will entitle her to move up to the post of staff nurse. “Going back to full-time education has been three years of hard mental slog, but nothing can beat the feeling of achievement at gaining a university degree at the age of 51!” she smiled. Our annual coffee morning in aid of Abbas Rest Orphans will take place in Dalry Town Hall on Saturday 5 October from 10am to 12noon. We do hope you will support this event as funds are badly needed for the new orphanage at Muona which is in the process of being built, as well as the usual expenses for food, clothing and medicines for the children. We will be grateful for any donations towards the raffle, bottle, cake and bric-a-brac stalls, as well as any help you can give on the stalls or in the kitchen. We look forward to seeing you, and for more information please contact Avril Brown on 430 526 or Barbara Colbenson on 430 090. Barbara Colbenson Rosy Glow Gazette reader Gill Stanyard has suggested a new section for the Gazette. The Rosy Glow section will be a space for people to include, anonymously if they like, their thanks, gratitude, admiration and general positivity about something a local person or organisation has done that has made them feel good. You can text or email your Rosy Glow comments to the Gazette (contact details on back page). This lovely idea will be started off by Gill herself. “Thanks to the CatStrand for organising the trip to the garden of Cosmic Speculation; it was a great afternoon.” Glenkens Gazette page 8 Wind farms are something we are becoming increasingly aware of across the region, particularly in and around the Glenkens where many proposed sites are situated. Recently a number of people got together to voice their concerns; below is a reader’s opinion piece on this topic. Torrential rain and weather warnings were not enough to stop a large group of people walking along the shores of Loch Urr on Sunday 8 September to highlight how distressed they are at the proposed wind farm development by E.ON. Residents from many communities including Dalry, Corsock, Moniaive, Dunscore, Gelston, Penpont, Thornhill, Ringford, Kirkpatrick Durham and Portpatrick came to voice their concerns and show politicians, D&G Councillors, wind farm developers and the landowners who have ‘sold out’ to them, that ‘enough is enough’. Communities are particularly worried because the planning application for the proposed wind farm at Loch Urr will be made directly to the Scottish Government, rather than going first to the D&G Planning Department, because the capacity of the development is 50MW. Many people attending the event were shocked by the map on display in Corsock Village Hall that showed the enormous number of wind farms proposed for this part of Galloway, which would result in thousands of acres of land being used for wind farm developments. Cllr Finlay Carson Castle Douglas & Glenkens for an appointment Tel: 07825 633 185 or email: Liz Cole, proprietor of The Moniaive Chocolatiers, said: “I have grave concerns about the number of wind farms being proposed around Moniaive. My business relies on tourism and is likely to be impacted by the proposed wind farms as many tourists come to Galloway because of the unspoilt beauty of the landscapes around here.” The whole landscape is at risk of being transformed into something beyond recognition with wind turbines visible from every viewpoint and nearly every road. John and Hilary Craig, of Whiteside, Dunscore, said: “We think many people in Dumfries and Galloway, and even D&G Councillors, are unaware of the huge cumulative impact that so many turbines in such a small area will have on the landscape, wildlife and local communities. Over 200 giant turbines more than 120 metres tall are being proposed within a 10km radius.” So far, seven different wind farm developers have focused on the GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway finlay@finlaycarson.co.uk FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL www.finlaycarson.co.uk  01644 420234  area to make as much money as they can from the massive subsidies that are being offered. Dumfries and Galloway is already generating a significant amount of renewable energy from the hydroelectric schemes throughout the region, and already has more than its fair share of wind farms. Trevor Procter Christmas Craft Fayre Saturday 16th November Castle Douglas Town Hall 9.30am-3.30pm Free Entry Hall proceeds will be donated to German Shepherd Rescue Scotland. A fantastic opportunity to find a unique gift for your loved ones. For table bookings please contact Jane on 01644 470 004 or Nicola at n.kphotography@yahoo.co.uk 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 jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 9 CatStrand Highlights The last few months have been very busy at the CatStrand with top quality musical performances from all over the world. This autumn we can look forward to many more quality events... Rapture Theatre returns on Wednesday 2 October with The Collection by Mike Cullen. Lúnasa, internationally acknowledged as being the finest traditional Irish instrumental band of recent times, visit on Wednesday 30 October. On Friday 15 November we have the exciting string trio, VAMM, formed in 2012 by Catriona Macdonald from Blazin’ Fiddles, Patsy Reid from Breabach and Norwegian Marit Failt. They create a dynamic yet intimate sound that will take your breath away. On the dancing front we welcome Bright Night International and Xena Productions on Wednesday 16 October who will present 925 & Heartbeats, featuring elements of contemporary dance, acrobatics, hip-hop and beatboxing in a dancetheatre experiment. And if you would rather be dancing yourself, come along to the CatStrand Salsa Night on Saturday 9 November and dance to 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 music of Son al Son; with a multi-national line up of musicians, they will play in the ‘son’ style made popular in 1920’s Havana. There will be a beginners’ salsa lesson prior to the show. November is brought to a close with the popular CatStrand Christmas Shopping Day on Saturday 30 November, from 2pm to 5.30pm; come along and enjoy a glass of mulled wine whilst you browse a range of locally produced gifts to solve your Christmas shopping problems. We don’t get time to draw breath after that as we welcome back Heidi Talbot & Friends on Wednesday 4 December, to Dalry Town Hall. After her much acclaimed visit to the CatStrand in 2011, the award-winning Irish folk singer returns with her brilliant band, including her multi-instrumentalist husband John McCusker. Then it’s back to the CatStrand for our very own Youth Players with their annual pantomime; this year we are transported to China for the traditional tale of Aladdin by John Morley. The panto will run for three performances, on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 December at 7.30pm, and on Sunday 8 December at 2pm. For full listings see our latest brochure or visit www.catstrand.com, and to book tickets call the Box Office on 01644 420 374. Glenkens Gazette page 10 Alternative Games Guild Funds weather was kind to the Games Youth Theatre The this time around with the sun shining Guild President, Christine Rankin, commented: “Following our successful Tombola stall at the Alternative Games, we were delighted to donate the proceeds to the CatStrand Youth Players. We have helped the Playgroup and the Children’s Club in the past and felt that the older children and teenagers in our community could benefit from our fundraising this time. And we have all much enjoyed the Youth Players’ performances in the past and look forward to their continuing success”. Pictured are the Youth Players with Christine Rankin (left) and Jean Marsden from the Ladies Guild. for most of the afternoon, unlike the monsoon conditions of 2012! There was no shortage of competitors for the various events either, with several heats having to be held in the various age groups of the Gird n’ Cleek competition to find the line-up for the World Championship Final later in the afternoon. The World Championship Gird n’ Cleek Final had a very high quality field who all had to battle hard to win their various qualifiers. Once again the Alternative Games achieved their aim: everyone seemed to have a smile on their face and had a good time. Centre is World Championship Winner for the 3rd year running, Neil Armstrong, left is Alexander McKenna (Bronze) and right is Kelsey Marshall (Silver) The Ladies Guild at St Margaret’s Church in New Galloway recently gave the CatStrand Youth Players a cheque for £250. Tai Jitsu Update The Carsphairn Tai Jitsu class finally have the new mats they worked so hard to secure. Instructor David Birdsall says: “I can now teach to the standard that is required for the students to improve. Anybody is welcome to come along - young, not-so-young, fit, unfit, strong, not-sostrong. It’s not just about self defence, it’s about having fun! “The mats cost £700 and were funded by YouthBank. Without this funding we would not have been able to afford the mats, which would have meant the activity would have stopped as the old mats were not safe enough. So for any young people who are thinking of doing something and you need funding - go to YouthBank. It is an excellent organisation with great staff.” Tai Jitsu Classes run on Wednesday evenings with juniors at 6pm and seniors at 7pm. Glenkens Gazette page 11 Glenkens Gazette page 12 Glenkens Gazette page 13 Glenkens Gazette page 14 Glenkens Gazette page 15 SCHOOL SINGING This term at Dalry the Wednesday afternoon activity offered by the music department was ‘A Capella’ singing. Five S1 and S2 students elected to do this and have all really enjoyed the challenge. The sessions begin with warm–ups and games to get the voice and body ready for action and everyone loosened-up. Then there is work on singing in harmony using chord patterns. This was hard at first, but gradually students are getting more confident about holding parts by themselves. Students get to choose the songs they would like to learn and have chosen ‘That’s What Makes You Beautiful’ by One Direction. They are now singing it in small groups and adding their own choreography and are learning to beatbox, and have had great fun using microphones. They will, over the next few weeks, learn to sing a variety of songs with harmony parts including Scottish folk songs. A recent evaluation of the course demonstrated that all students felt that the variety of skills they were learning were both worthwhile and highly enjoyable. Mindfulness Carsphairn - Gone Just before the school summer holidays, Mrs Henry offered Dalry students a course entitled Music, Mood and Meditation during their Wednesday Afternoon Activities. The focus of this course was to introduce students to the study and practice of Mindfulness. Put simply, Mindfulness is simply awareness of each moment of your life as it is happening; being aware of moment-to-moment sensations and experiences helps us focus, concentrate, put what is past firmly in the past and stops us worrying about the future. In the course, students were learning to focus on the breath, being aware of each breath as it enters and leaves the body and, when the mind wanders (as it inevitably does), to bring it back to the breath. Part of the learning experience was to eat mindfully - to savour each taste, each tiny part of the food and think about the journey that food has made to land on your plate. Students were challenged to eat at least one meal or part of a meal mindfully during the week. They also listened to music mindfully - not just overhearing it as a soundtrack to their other activities, but being fully aware of each instrument, variation and note as it occurred. In the last week students went out to the churchyard, walking mindfully, being aware of each step that their feet made and the colours, smells and sensations that they experienced on the walk. We all learned that focussing on the here and now means that we actually participate in our own lives fully. This helps us to maximise our experiences and cope with problems better. Ros Henry, S1 & S2 pupils to the Animals! After such wonderful weather this summer it was great to see everyone back at Carsphairn Primary school. Sometimes it can be difficult to come back to school after such a long time away, but this year we planned something fun early on to get everyone excited. Zoo Lab came to visit, and they brought all kinds of exciting animals that the pupils and staff were able to pick up and hold. Most of the animals were either gross or scary, but everyone was brave; we held a snail the size of our fists, cockroaches, a corn snake and a rat! There was also a tarantula, but we weren’t allowed to hold it. Everyone had a lot of fun and it helped us forget that our summer holiday was over. Walker McKenna Creative Writing Success for Kells Before the summer holidays pupils from Kells Primary took part in a Creative Writing Competition organised by Wigtown Book Festival on ‘The Dark Sky’. The school was delighted to find out recently that four pupils had been awarded prizes. Freya Spernagel was third in the P1-4 category. In the category for P5-7 pupils, Erin McGaw was first, Yelena Wolffe was second Glenkens Gazette page 16 Have you heard of Dalry School VRS? Because of its history and complexity, the English Language is a powerful but challenging tool for both children and adults. Dalry School has a strong tradition of encouraging literacy across the curriculum, as well as at home and in the wider community. Teachers of all subjects are aware of how a person’s ability to read and understand competently as well as to enjoy literature can greatly affect every aspect of life at home, school or at work. Dalry School is fortunate to have literacy support from members of the community in the form of Volunteer Readers. The Volunteer Readers’ Scheme (VRS) is now in its fifteenth year, giving pupils from P1 to S4 the chance to improve their reading skills and to share and enjoy a book during the school day. A Volunteer spends about 20 minutes listening to a pupil reading, discussing the story and helping the pupil to hone their skills and boost their confidence. Both pupils and volunteers gain a great deal of satisfaction and enjoyment from the scheme. What we read and where we read it may be changing with the advent of electronic… everything! However, the skills and enjoyment of reading still depend on a firm foundation of literacy, and VRS helps us to build that. If you would like to know more about VRS, or would like to become a Volunteer Reader, please contact Dalry School Office on 430 259. KELLS GO BOWLING XMAS PANTO P5-7 pupils from Kells Primary recently visited Spalding Bowling Club. The children received coaching from club member Mr Hamish Sinclair, and thoroughly enjoyed the sessions - they are looking forward to returning to the club in June 2014. Carsphairn Shop Continued from front page... Christine has a background in retail and says that she has always loved the idea of running a small enterprise at the heart of a rural community. And they are no strangers to the village as the couple lived in Carsphairn for three and a half years, and were married in Carsphairn Church. When Ian decided to accept a job farming in the area, they heard that the shop was up for rent and applied for the tenancy. Christine is hoping that the community will be pleased to see an essential community facility re-open and that everyone will support them in their new business. She says: “I would very much like to hear from people. Please let me know what you would like me to stock on a regular basis.” The tea room is also back in business, serving a variety of hot and cold snacks such as baked potatoes, sandwiches, cakes, and soups. The hope is to create a vibrant, homely, warm atmosphere that is attractive to locals, visitors, and passers-by. Both Ian and Christine are thrilled to be back in what they consider to be ‘real countryside’. “It is nice to see that Carsphairn hasn’t changed much. The village is a little bit bigger, maybe a little bit quieter, and the hills have definitely become a little bit steeper,” says Ian, “but it is great to be back.” Rehearsals are well underway for this year’s CatStrand pantomime, Aladdin by John Morley. The 22 cast members are all working hard under the direction of Brian Edgar and Nancy Plummer to ensure that the show is ready for taking to the stage in early December. After last year’s visit to the Wild West, this time we are off to the Far East for everyone’s favourite pantomime story featuring Widow Twankey, Wishee Washee, Abanazer and our hero Aladdin along with a host of other colourful characters. Be prepared to boo and hiss at the baddies, and more importantly to cheer and help Aladdin and his friends to defeat the wicked Abanazer and ensure that everyone lives happily ever after. The performance dates are Friday 6 & Saturday 7 December at 7.30pm and, due to popular demand, there is an extra Sunday Matinee performance this year on 8 December at 2pm with special rates for children. Tickets are on sale now from the CatStrand Box Office (420 374) Please book your seats early to avoid disappointment! Glenkens Gazette page 17 Apollo5 In Dalry Savoury Success On Thursday 8 August Apollo5 touched down again and the sun shone for their second visit to Dalry. This time the concert was held in the Town Hall to the enjoyment of an audience of local music lovers and some from as far away as Ayrshire. Donations from the appreciative audience went to the Town Hall and to the work of Voces Cantabiles Music (the music education charity to which Apollo5 belongs). Sheila Adams BOWLING NEWS Spalding Bowling Club has enjoyed a good bowling season with most members regularly attending our sweeps and club competitions. We held two very successful open tournaments with our own club teams coming out on top. The first competition was the triples with Gordon McAdam, John McNally and Sandy Harvie the winners. The final of our pairs competition was contested by two father-and-son teams. The winners were Jack & Gary Priddy. This year our Gents’ Champion is Arthur McFegan, runner up Matt Taylor and in the Ladies’, Elizabeth Peacock won with Mabel Young as runner-up. Our annual prize giving and Social will be held at the Clachan Inn on Friday 1 November. Eliz Peacock 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 Well known for making ice cream, the Finlay Family at Rainton Farm, home of Cream o’ Galloway, have gone in a more savoury direction. Having made cheese throughout the 1800s and early 1900s, the industrialisation of cheese making meant that small-scale farmhouse production became uncompetitive in the 1960s, and the last batch of Rainton cheddar was made in 1971. But with the resurgence in appreciation for artisan produce made in traditional ways, the team at Rainton have decided to use the farm’s organic milk for cheese as well as ice cream. The most popular cheese so far has been the ‘Black Douglas’, a soft, pressed cheese with cracked black pepper which is then rolled in toasted oatmeal. And new developments haven’t stopped with the cheese; the staff at Cream o’ Galloway are delighted to be taking over the operation of the new Visitor Centre at Kirroughtree in the Galloway Forest Park. The new cheeses, together with Rainton Farm beef, will feature strongly on the menu of both Cream o’ Galloway and Kirroughtree Visitor Centre alongside, of course, a delicious range of luxury ice cream. We look forward to welcoming you soon! The Cream o’ Galloway Team Glenkens Gazette page 18 Retirement Project Gets Cooking Would you like to learn more about cooking for yourself, healthy eating, planning meals or cooking on a budget? Then come along for the fourweek course based at the CatStrand, starting on Tuesday 15 October. On a more musical note, The existing Ukulele Group Improvers Session has continued throughout the summer season, and runs on Mondays at 1pm (starting 7 Oct). For anyone over 60 interested in learning the ukulele, a begginers’ group will run on Mondays at 11.15am (starting 7 Oct). to travel to a variety of places, used in connection with events at the CatStrand and, in time, possibly used for hospital visiting. The new bus will be brand new and silver in colour and it is hoped we will take delivery of it during November, in time for the Christmas and New Year period. UPCOMING TRIPS To contact Brian Jones about these or any other ideas for the over-sixties, please call the CatStrand on 420 374. NEW BUS ON THE WAY The Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) continues to move forward, always taking into account the needs of the people of the Glenkens. Therefore, when the time came to dispose of the old Renault after 11 years of sterling work in the community, the Committee decided an 8-seater mini bus would be a valuable addition to what we can offer you. This vehicle, another Renault with wheelchair accessibility, will be available on similar terms to our other vehicles, although because it is a smaller vehicle younger drivers without a D1 on their Driving Licence will be able to use it after undertaking a Midas Training Course, held locally by Jon Nimmo. It is hoped this vehicle will be used by groups of all ages wishing SCHOOL TRANSPORT & RURAL TRANSPORT SOLUTIONS PROJECT The new school run from Crossmichael to Castle Douglas High School, following which transport is provided for a number of people living in Castle Douglas to the Adult Resource Centre near Carlingwark Loch, is now well under way. This provides us with a regular source of income while giving us access to the Council-owned 16-seater Fiat Orion when it is not being used for these duties, particularly at weekends. 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 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.  01556 502263  VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS Sat 2 Nov - Ayr – Xmas shopping or perhaps a day at the Races. Sat 30 Nov – Linlithgow Palace – free entry to the birthplace and residence of Mary Queen of Scots, to mark St Andrew’s Day. Mon 2 Dec – Hetland Hall Garden Centre and Moffat; we are grateful to the Glenkens Community Shop in Dalry for a generous donation towards the cost of extra Xmas trips. Sat 7 Dec – Glasgow – Xmas shopping or visit Kelvingrove Museum etc. E-MAIL ADDRESS GTI now has it’s own dedicated email address – gti@catstrand.com - therefore, if you have any queries or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me either via email or through the CatStrand (420 374). Keith Cooper, GTI Administrator FHB Fencing Dalry Domestic and Agricultural Fencing 01644 430 495 (Peter) or 07767 795 498 (Jonathan) Glenkens Gazette page 19 COMMUNITY CENTRE Continued from front page... Helen Keron, Chair of the Centre Management Committee, said: “We were very disappointed to hear this news from the council, especially as the Centre has such thriving user groups. It seems a shame to put so much community action at risk for the sake of the relatively small sums saved. However, we are working positively with the council to try and find a solution that will keep this building open, certainly for the next school year and hopefully beyond that.” All suggestions of how to manage the centre in future, or offers of help, would be much appreciated by the Committee who feel their responsibilities to the building and to the community very strongly. In particular, they are looking for a new secretary; contact Helen Keron on keronh@me.com for more information or if you would like to help. Coffee Morning Balmaclellan & Kells Church is holding a Coffee Morning in New Galloway Town Hall on Wednesday 2 October from 10.30am to 12noon. There will also be a sales table. This event is to replace the previously planned Coffee Morning which had to be cancelled due to snow in March – hopefully it will be better weather this time. Getting to Know Our Community Constable PC Ian Dunn, new Community Constable in the Glenkens, discusses how our local bobby can be of service. “As Community Constable, my role is to provide a link between Police Scotland and the local Communities that we serve. To provide help, advice and reassurance as well as law enforcement. It is very much a ‘two way street’, as without the assistance of the public, it is very difficult to efficiently police such a wideranging rural area.” PC Dunn goes on to say: “I was first introduced to Dumfries and Galloway some thirty years ago when holidaying here with my wife, a ‘Gatehouse girl’. I fell in love with the charm and beauty of the area and the Family and friends coming to stay? warmth of the people. It took us a few years, but in 1996 I managed to secure both employment and a home in the area and moved here with our three sons. In 2008 I fulfilled a childhood ambition to become a Police Officer and have served in the Galloway Division since then at Newton Stewart, Kirkcudbright and Castle Douglas before securing the position of Community Constable. “I feel very privileged to be able to live and work in such a beautiful part of the country. In my role as Community Constable I hope to be able to return this, helping people to feel safe, secure and able to enjoy living and working here too. I hope to promote this with our many seasonal visitors so that they too can enjoy our towns, villages and countryside in a safe and responsible manner.” PC Dunn encourages members of the community to contact him for help and advice on any matter which may concern them. He can be contacted through the Area Control Room in Dumfries by using the new 101 number, or by email at ian_dunn@scotland.pn n.police.uk for non-urgent enquiries. In any emergency, please use 999. New Galloway Short of space? Golf Club Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) www.nggc.co.uk Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 or 07789 903127 Founded 1902 v 01644 420737 v Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Glenkens Gazette page 20 WW1 Centenary Commemoration A meeting took place on Tuesday 3 September regarding a programme of WW1 Centenary Commemoration events. As there were only five of us it was insufficient to elect a committee, so the meeting continued informally. Paul Goodwin outlined his vision of a committee that would co-ordinate (but not run) a programme of events and arrange a centralised bid for a grant from Heritage Lottery Funds. Glenkens schools are keen to be involved with topical visits. Anna Campbell, representing the Carsphairn Heritage Group, expressed the wish that research should be done into those that survived and not concentrate solely on those who were killed. Also research should be done on how the war affected the families and others left in the Glenkens. The next meeting will be in early November (venue and date to be decided) and it is hoped that more will attend in order to allow things to proceed. If you would like notification of the next meeting, please let Paul have your contact details. In the meantime, a plea for information - if you have any information about the Glenkens during this period; the erection of war memorials, if you know of anyone who served in WW1 - here or elsewhere, killed or survived - please get in touch so we can properly record details and honour the memory of those who served. Paul Goodwin ww1centenary@paulgoodwin.me.uk 07973 174342 NEW GALLOWAY GOLF CLUB The course has been in excellent condition and those visitors who have played it have commented on that fact. Toast of the club is Scott Jamieson who followed in his father’s footsteps by winning the Coronation Cup, a knock-out competition which ran throughout the season. Scott also made history by winning five of the monthly medals. The Club Champion is Jonathan Dale who defeated Kenny Grierson in the 36 hole final. After the first 18 holes Jonathan was one hole down, but the break obviously did him good and he stormed ahead to win quite comfortably in the end. Linda Brown and Alex Long retained the Johnstone Trophy. The four ball better ball Open sponsored by Tilhill saw players come from around the area, but local members Dick Tulloch and Sandy Harvie won with a superb score of 57. A bench was presented by the members to Elspeth Thomas, the wife of the late President, Chris Thomas, who died recently and who was a great supporter of the Club for many years. The bench is sited behind the 8th tee and looks down Loch Ken - it can be accessed by the woodland walk. The seniors will start their winter programme on Thursday 3 October, meeting at 9.15am for 9.30am start. Applications are now being taken for next season - for a good deal on membership, phone 420 737 and mention this article in the Gazette. Please visit our website for more information Jeff Sutcliffe www.nggc.co.uk 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 Bench in memory of Christopher Thomas. The 2013 season is now almost complete and thankfully we have had a summer which has meant most of the fixtures have been played. Glenkens Gazette page 21 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN The Glenkens Rebellion A previous column of the Gazette (Feb/March 2011) looked at the military occupation of the Glenkens in the early 1660s, a dismal experience for the inhabitants as they had dragoons quartered on their estates and farms. People were abused, their persons violated, while huge fines were imposed upon individuals for nonattendance at the established church, as the Scottish state attempted to suppress the dangerous political tenets of the Covenanters, who held conventicles (church services in barns or the open air) in defiance of the government. In a clear example of how violence breeds violence the situation erupted on 13 November 1666. What followed has been known as ‘The Pentland Rising’ since 1667 because two weeks later (28 November) the rebels came to grief at Rullion Green on the slopes of the Pentland Hills, near Penicuik. The event was the subject of young Robert Louis Stevenson’s first publication, but ‘Pentland’ is a misnomer since the rebellion was inspired by the outraged men of Glenkens. John Maclellan, laird of Barscobe in Balmaclellan parish, had been hiding out in the hills with three associates. They visited the Clachan of Dalry seeking supplies, on the way encountering, at Midtown, Corporal George Deanes and three other soldiers who were driving a few labourers to the farm of a man named Grier, whose corn they were to thresh to pay his fine for nonattendance. While in the alehouse at the Clachan they heard that the soldiers were torturing Grier who, having been bound hand and foot, was threatened with being stripped naked and spread-eagled on a hot gridiron (used for baking bread). Barscobe and his cohorts intervened, tempers flared, loud words were exchanged, soldiers attacked with swords drawn, and one of the local men fired his pistol loaded with broken claypipes, the only ammunition he had, wounding Deanes. Grier was freed and the soldiers captured. It is clear that the situation was not premeditated. Word of the affray reached Balmaclellan where a conventicle was taking place. The minister, Thomas Verner, or Warner, who had been outed in 1663, was at that time a farmer at Lochinvar, and was under investigation by the authorities. In his absence, the service was conducted by Alexander Robertson, minister of Urr. Since the conventiclers were likely to be deemed complicit in the Grier episode, they joined Barscobe and next day they attacked sixteen other members of the Dalry garrison, killing one. Rebellion now seemed the only option. The hated commandant of the South-West, Lieutenant-Colonel Sir James Turner, was based at Dumfries. Much of the social and political unrest in Galloway was attributed to him and his pernicious actions, but in his Memoirs he claimed that he had never exceeded his orders and, if anything, was guilty of leniency. A self-admitted drunkard, described as a butcher and a bibulous despot by his opponents, he confessed that “I had swallowed in Germanie (where he served as a mercenary) a very dangerous maxim which military men then too much followed, which was that so we serve our master honestly it is no matter what master we serve”. The rebels had been joined by some fifty horsemen and 150 men on foot when Barscobe entered Dumfries to capture Turner. His party also included John Neilson of Corsock, minister’s son Alexander Robertson, McCartney of Blaiket (north-east of Haugh of Urr), James Callum, Glover in Dumfries and a mysterious character named Andrew Gray who seemed to appear from nowhere. Their quarry appeared at the window, “a vision of night cap, night gown, drawers and socks”, begging for mercy, to which Neilson assented. When Gray wanted to shoot Turner, Neilson replied that he should “as soon shoot me for I have given him quarters”. For whatever reason Gray took charge of Turner’s papers and considerable amounts of cash that he kept in a chest. Turner, still ‘in his flannels’ was placed upon a Galloway pony barebacked, while the covenanters, at the cross, pledged their loyalty to the king and their adherence to the covenants. The belief of these simple men was that Charles II’s counsellors, rather than the king himself, were responsible for the evils that beset them, but ironically their best hope lay in using Turner as a hostage while they appealed to the merciless royal Scottish advisors in Edinburgh. In truth they had no real options and no experience whatsoever of the deadly situation in which they now found themselves. To be continued... Ted Cowan 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 22 OCTOBER & NOVEMBER OCTOBER Club Sat 5, Coffee Morning for Abbas Rest Tue 1 to Thu 31, Exhibition: Jennie Orphans, 10am, Dalry Town Hall Ashmore - Leafworks, CatStrand Sat 5, Street Workshop with Bright Tue 1, International Day for Older Night International, 11-12.30am, People Celebration Tea Event, 2pm, CatStrand CatStrand Wed 9, Open Stage, 7.30pm, Wed 2, Coffee Morning, 10.30am, New CatStrand Galloway Lower Town Hall Thu 10, Jarlath Henderson & Ross Wed 2, Rapture Theatre: The Ainslie, 7.30pm, CatStrand Collection by Mike Cullen, 7.30pm, Sat 12, The Pictish Trail, 7.30pm, CatStrand CatStrand Thurs 3, Seniors Winter Programme Wed 16, Bright Night International begins, 9.15am, New Galloway Golf & Zena Productions present 925/ Heartbeats, 7pm, CatStrand Sun 20, Trunk, 11am, CatStrand Wed 23, Home Safety & Security Seminar, 1pm, CatStrand The CatStrand Wed 23 Oct Saturday 30th November to Wed 4 Dec, Digital Photography 2-6pm Course, 10.30am, CatStrand Thu 24, National Youth Film Festival: Beasts of the Southern Wild, 2pm, CatStrand Fri 25, Monsters’ Ball, 8.30pm, CatStrand Sat 26, Film: Room on the Broom, 2pm, CatStrand Sat 26, Lantern Making Workshop, 3-5pm, CatStrand Wed 30, Lunasa, 7.30pm, CatStrand Thu 31, CatStrand Halloween Parade, 6pm, CatStrand NOVEMBER Fri 1 Nov to Sun 1 Dec, Exhibition: Katie Russell – Landscapes & Water Fri 1, Spalding Bowling Club Annual Prize Giving & Social, Clachan Inn Sat 2, Literature: Chiew Siah Tei (Friend’s Event), 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 2, Balmaclellan Bonfire Night, 6.30pm Sat 2, Bus Trip: Ayr – Xmas shopping or perhaps a day at the Races Sat 2, Life Drawing with Katharine Wheeler, 10am-3pm, CatStrand Fri 8, Quiz Night, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall Sat 9, Son Al Son CatStrand Salsa Night, 7.30pm, CatStrand Wed 13, I could Eat a Horse: Films About Food, 7pm, CatStrand Thu 14, Start to Write Workshop, 1.30pm, CatStrand Fri 15, VAMM, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 16, Christmas Craft Fayre, 9.30am-3.30pm, Castle Douglas Town Hall Sat 16, Eco Drama: What on Earth am I Eating? Food Miles Workshop, 3.304.30pm, CatStrand Sat 16, Eco Drama: The Forgotten Orchard, 2pm, CatStrand Tue 19 & Wed 20, Weaving Workshop with Katie Russell, 10am-3.30pm, CatStrand Sun 24, Make Your Own Sock Creature, 12.15-1.45pm, CatStrand Fri 29, Scottish Night, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Sat 30, Bus Trip – Linlithgow Palace Sat 30, Craft Fair, 10am - 4pm, Mossdale Village Hall Sat 30, Christmas Shopping Day, 25pm, CatStrand Balmaclellan GTI WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE Bonfire Night Outward Journey: Return journey: (registered route) Sat 2 Nov, 6.30pm We’re not sure exactly what will be on offer in the way of food, etc, as we only have a very small committee this year - anyone willing to help out please get in touch on 420 603 or 420 604. 19:00 Dept. Dalry (Underhill) 19:05 New Galloway 19:15 Mossdale 19:25 Laurieston 19:30 Townhead of Greenlaw 19:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:35 Dept. Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 20:47 Townhead of Greenlaw 21:50 Laurieston 21:00 Mossdale 21:10 New Galloway 21:15 Dalry To book a Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) bus or for more information please contact keith cooper, GTI Administrator, on 01644 420 374. Glenkens Gazette page 23 REGULAR EVENTS CatStrand (New Galloway): Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am Ukelele Group, Mon (starting 7 Oct), 11.15am, 60+ Ukelele Improvers, Mon (starting 7 Oct), 1pm, 60+ Free Computer Training; Beginners & Improvers, Mon (starting 4 Nov), 1.30pm Margaret Morris Movement Adult Dance Class, Mon, 2.30-3.30pm, contact Sara on 01556 612854 Children’s Dance Class: Mon during term time, 3.45-4.45pm age 3-7, 4.30-5.30pm ages 8-15 Saturday Art Club: 2nd Sat each month, 10am–12noon Zumbatomic, last Sat each month,10-10.45am Catstrand Youth Players: Sun during term time, 2pm Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, last Sun of the month, 2-4pm Glenkens Community Centre (Dalry): (contact Kath 430 281) Let’s Cook, Tues (starts 15 Oct), 10am Glenkens Children’s Club: Mon & Fri, 9.15-11.45am Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm & Wed, 7-9pm Ballroom & Latin Dance Class: Mon, 7.15, for more info call Sam Rushton on 420 672 Carers’ Coffee & Chat: Tues, 10am-12noon GCC Playgroup, Tue & Thurs, 9.2011.50am, contact keronh@me.com Teen Spirit: Tues during term time, 7-8:30pm (P7-S3) and 8-9:30pm (S3+) Good Neighbours’ Club: Tues, 2pm Kickback Martial Arts: Thurs, 7-9pm Thursday Craft Group: Thurs, 24pm Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm Guides: Tue during term-time, 6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281 Let’s Cook, Tues (starts 15 Oct), 10am Gentle Tai Chi, Wed (starting 2 Oct), 10am, 60+ Sing it Out: Thurs, 11.30am 12.30pm Pilates: Thurs, 4.15-5.15pm & 5.30-6.30pm Knit & Blether Club, last Fri each month, 2pm, 60+ Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri each month, 2pm Various Locations: Texas Hold ‘em Poker, Mon, 7.15pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.4511.15am, New Galloway Town Hall Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New Glenkens Community Councils Balmaclellan Community Council Meetings: 3rd Monday each month, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall. Carsphairn Community Council Meetings: Last Monday each month, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn. Dalry Community Council Meetings: 1st Monday each month, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. New Galloway & Kells Community Council Meetings: 2nd Monday each month, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall. Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library. CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon: 1st. Carsphairn: 10.30am: 1st,2nd,3rd,4th. Dalry: 12noon: 1st,2nd(Nov),3rd, 4th. Kells: 10.30am: 2nd (Oct),3rd,4th Special Services/Events: 6 Oct, 10.30am: Harvest Thanksgiving Service in Carsphairn Church followed by Harvest Lunch in Lagwyne Hall. 6 Oct, 12 noon: Harvest Thanksgiving Service in Dalry Church followed by Harvest Lunch in Dalry Town Hall. 13 Oct, 10.30am: United Family Service in Kells Church. 27 Oct, 6.30pm: Vivaldi’s Gloria with Glenkens Church Choir. 10 Nov, 11am: Ceremonies at New Galloway & Balmaclellan War Memorials followed by Remembrance Service in St Margaret’s Church, New Galloway. Communion Service: 27 Oct, 12 noon, Dalry Church. 5 Nov, 12 noon, Balmaclellan Church. 17 Nov, 10.15 am, Carsphairn 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 Galloway Scout Hut Dog Training: Tue & Wed, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. Contact: Eric 460 670 Tai Jitsu: Wed, Junior Class (age 614), 6-7pm; Senior Class, 7-8.30pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn, contact David on 07547 134 276, see p5 Wednesday Quiz Night, Wed, 8.30pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Stewartry Camera Club: Wed, 7.30pm, Ringford Village Hall, runs Wed 11 Sept till end Mar 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 Carsphairn Coffee, Craft & Post Office Morning, Thurs, 9.3011.30am, Lagwyne Hall Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Folk Music Session: 1st Sat each month, 8pm, The Clachan Inn, Dalry Dalry Library (Tel: 430 234) Opening Times: 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 please phone. ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 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 Glenkens Gazette page 24 DALRY SCHOOL’S FAB NEW LAB Dalry School’s Science Lab has undergone a complete transformation during the school summer holidays. Miss Patterson, teacher of Science, Chemistry and Physics, says: “As you can see from the photographs, the lab has been completely modernised through a six-week refurbishment programme. Not only has this improved the facilities within the lab but it has created a fantastic work space for teaching and learning. I returned to work after the summer break, not only delighted with this year’s examination results (well done Chemists and Phyicists!) but also with the design of the new laboratory.” And Miss Patterson wasn’t the only one pleasantly surprised - here are some of the students’ comments: James Bosworth, S4: “Looks modern, spacious and laid out well; more like high-tech lab.” Michael Smith, S3: “The new science lab rules. I wish every room in the school looked like this!” Lee Murray, S4: “It is a colourful and happy place to work.” Kimberly McAdam, S3: “The science lab is a nice place to work now that it has been done up. It also looks a lot bigger than it used to.” Hamish Harvey, S3: “The science lab is fab!” Photos (top to bottom): the old lab, room under construction, the new lab. Glenkens Community & Arts Trust require a Fundraising & Development Officer An opportunity for an experienced and motivated individual to join us as Fundraising & Development Officer, having overall responsibility for raising funds and maintaining income streams, marketing and planning; developing effective partnerships with local and national arts organisations, etc. This is a part-time, salaried post, 16 hours per week, and is based at the CatStrand in New Galloway. For more information and details of how to apply, visit www.catstrand.com Closing date: Wednesday 16 October 2013, 5pm. Interviews week commencing Monday 21 October 2013 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 4 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  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 78 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_078 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 2013 Description An account of the resource Editor: Sarah Ade https://glenkensarchive.scot/glenkens_archive/files/original/1/225/GlenkensGazette79.pdf c4f0879d86097eb2f3c7927433b95fe2 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 79 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry December/January 2013/14 ISSUE 79 FREE CHEERS! CARSPHAIRN BUYS ITS FORMER PUB Carsphairn is celebrating the securing of funds to buy Greystones, the former pub in the village. Carsphairn Community Trust have been awarded funding to buy the building for use as a community asset. Greystones, at the heart of the village, shut its doors as a public house in January 2007. The property has been decaying for more than three years and has been a concern for the village since the death of its last owner. In 2011 Carsphairn Community Council decided, after an independent survey of community needs, to set up a committee to Carsphairn residents toast the success of the new venture, and celebrate the handover of cheque from the Chairman of Carsphairn Renewable Energy Fund Ltd to the Secretary of Carsphairn Community Trust. research the potential. In 2012 a local company offered to purchase the building to give the community time to create the appropriate body and apply for funding to buy the space. Continued on P7... Watson Bird Project Buys Barone The Watson Bird Centre project has passed a key milestone with the purchase of part of Barone, the Watson family home. This means that plans to create a centre in Dalry to celebrate the work of the famous bird artist Donald Watson and his son Jeff, a leading environmentalist who produced the definitive study of the golden eagle, can now go ahead. This announcement comes four years after the project’s director, Roger Crofts, first launched the idea of creating a focal point in Dalry. He believes that with two highly successful Watson Bird Festivals, the establishment of the academically respected Watson Raptor Science Prize and, now the purchase of part of Barone, the whole project is going from strength to strength: “This is a huge step forward for the project. Now we can start to A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative bring the old house to life with Donald’s studio, almost as he left it, and create exhibition space and study facilities with the interesting Watson archives and a bird observatory in the garden.” Continued on P18... Donald Watson www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 COMMUNITY CENTRE UPDATE Since the last edition of the Gazette, matters have moved on apace with the Glenkens Community Centre in Dalry. Papers have now been signed with Dumfries & Galloway Council that puts the centre into a transition period where the council still owns the building but the centre pays many more of the bills. Because of this, the rents have had to be increased, but the centre remains a viable and vibrant community facility. The transition period lasts until June 2014 when the management committee will either have to buy the centre for a nominal sum or allow the council to close it. The management committee remains committed to our user groups’ clear mandate to keep the centre open if at all possible and has therefore commenced exploring options for the longterm future of the centre. In doing so, they are bearing in mind all the other public buildings in the Glenkens and Hard of Hearing Group Glenkens Drop-in The Dumfries & Galloway Hard of Hearing Group would like to set up a drop-in clinic in one of the Glenkens villages. They are a voluntary group, funded by Putting You First, and have drop-ins across Dumfries & Galloway where people who have hearing aids can come along and get their aids maintained, get advice and support. Currently the local drop-in is in Castle Douglas Town Hall on the 2nd Thursday of the month between 11am and 12noon. The group has been investigating venues in the Glenkens to make it easier for local residents here to attend, but they need volunteers. If you have a couple of hours a month to spare and would like to gain skills to be able to maintain hearing aids, get in touch with Julie Turner on 07896 342 878 or juliedghhg@gmail.com or visit www.dghhg.org.uk Family and friends coming to stay? Short of space? Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 or 07789 903127 hope to work with all concerned to find the best solution for the community and individual user groups. To this end, there will be an Open Meeting at the community centre at 7:30pm on Monday 13 January, to which all interested parties are cordially invited. Please do come along if you’d like to help us form a plan that is right for the community. Thanks to everyone for their support so far, Helen Keron,Chair, Glenkens Community Centre Rosy Glow The Rosy Glow section is a space for people to include, anonymously if they like, their thanks, admiration and general positivity about something a local person or organisation has done that has made them feel good. “Well done Gill! Your ‘Rosie Glow’ section is a splendid positive idea. It gives me an opportunity to say many thanks to the Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) and the volunteer drivers who give up their time to transport us to some interesting venues.” Libby Ritchie “I am leaving the Glenkens to move to the coast at Sandy Hills and would like to say goodbye to everyone. I will miss the light on the hills, the chats in the street and the waves through the windows!” Gill Stanyard You can text or email your Rosy Glow comments to the Gazette (contact details on back page). VACANCIES Full & part time carers for Glenkens & Castle Douglas areas. Competitive rates of pay. Full training provided. Driving license essential. For an application pack please phone 01556 504699, email us at enquiries@ stewartrycare.co.uk or call into our office 43 Cotton Street, Castle Douglas, DG7 1AR. www.stewartrycare.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 3 Photo of the Issue: ‘Changing Seasons’ Sponsored by the Ken Bridge Hotel This issue’s winner is Andrew Mellor with a striking shot of a waxwing. Competition judges Dave and Sue of the Ken Bridge Hotel said: “There were some wonderful submissions again, but one clear winner... There was a photo from the Ken Bridge which was lovely, and a great shot of autumn leaves which showed the spectacular range of colours that make autumn in this area a joy, but the photograph of the waxwing feeding is something that few people will have seen, and therefore we have chosen this.” Andrew will receive a meal for two at the Ken Bridge Hotel Sunday Carvery. Send in your entries for the next issue and it could be you next time! We will keep all entries on file and if they suit a future theme/ season, they will be re-considered. Abbas Rest Orphans A very successful coffee morning was held in Dalry on Saturday 5 October in aid of the Abbas Rest Orphans in Malawi. We would like to thank everyone who supported us with their presence as well as help on the stalls, serving teas, baking and donations, which raised a wonderful total of £626. THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL New Galloway Open 7 Days Beautiful Riverside Location MEALS SERVED 12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm Christmas menus now available for intimate dinners, groups or party nights. Bed & breakfast en suite accommodation 01644 420 211 mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk www.kenbridgehotel.co.uk We were very pleased that the three trustees for Abbas Rest Orphans - Richard Willis, Jim Walsham and our new trustee Madge Irvine - were able to attend and talk to people individually about the work of Abbas Rest. It was good to hear that the building of the new orphan centre at Muona has now begun although the cost has risen steeply, so our effort is very acceptable. Thanks again to everyone for your help. Avril Brown & Barbara Colbenson Bargatton Sand & Gravel Supplying sand and gravel for all your farming needs, as well as households and businesses both large and small. We stock washed fine sand, coarse sand and gravels at competitive prices. Wishing all our customers a happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. For further details contact: Angus Wilson, Quarry Manager - 07715 606 685 James Mair - 07793 085 243 Email: loch.bargatton@live.co.uk Bargatton Quarry, Laurieston, Castle Douglas, DG7 2PS Open 7 days Mon-Fri Weekends by arrangement Delivery can be arranged - subject to quantity Glenkens Gazette page 4 sponsored by EVERYTHING listed in the Glenkens Freecycle section is FREE - you just need to contact the owner and go and pick it up! 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. Various Box of random books if anyone would like them on a variety of subjects from running to chess etc. Contact: Gill on 07971 769 785 Furniture Armchairs (two) a bit battered but comfortable. Covered in yellow damask. Contact: 430 218. Swivel office chair, grey fabric, (armchair type). Contact: 460 516. Small blue square shelf unit on wheels; suitable for coffee table/bedside table/media unit. Contact: Sarah on 07727 127 997 Electrical HP laser printer 5P. Contact: Ken on 460 0516 Chest freezer; 50”, 141 cubic feet. Contact: Neville on 450 685 WANTED Any spare pots - terracotta and glazed, for my new garden. I am also looking 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 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. www.facebook.com/fleetfish Wright’s Shop Dalry Orders being taken for Christmas Hampers. Holly wreaths and other festive goodies now in stock. Opening Times: Monday to Friday: 7am – 6pm Saturday: 8am – 6pm Sunday: 8.30am – 4pm Tel: 01644 430 225  01556 502263  VETERINARY SURGERY OAKWELL ROAD CASTLE DOUGLAS a microwave, any spare rugs, a double mattress, in good condition, and a tall standing lamp. Contact: Gill on 07971 769 785 Drums; snare drum, symbols, stands, etc. Contact: 07500 556 014 An iphone4; will pay cash. Contact: 07500 556 014 Crystalyx Tubs. Don’t leave them blowing around in the field - they are great for growing tomatoes! Contact: Bob on 430 281 “Right from the outset I’ve had fun putting ads in the Freecycle page. It’s not just about finding that someone needs something you no longer have room for. It’s about chatting to all those nice re-cycling-minded people who ring up, and making new acquaintances.” Sue Wiseman Glenkens Gazette page 5 sponsored by APOLOGY The Gazette would like to sincerely apologise for any implied association between the Eco Feature article in the October/November issue of the Gazette and the page’s sponsor, Natural Power. The article was purely an opinion piece attributed to a reader, and in no way reflected the views of the Glenkens Gazette or of Natural Power Consultants Ltd. THE GREAT HEATING FUEL DEBATE Most households have had this heating debate from time to time; oil, gas, coal or wood? Here in the Glenkens most of us don’t have access to the most economic option of mains gas, so are pretty much locked in to oil as a main heating fuel. The challenge is how to use as little of this expensive fuel as possible. After addressing the essentials of insulation and draft-proofing, the next item on the ‘tick box’ is supplementary heating. Most of us have a chimney, and sadly most still have open fires. Open fires are massively inefficient; the average open fire wastes approximately 80% of its generated heat straight up the chimney. This effectively means that about £8 in every £10 of fuel is wasted. Given that you have an existing chimney, fitting a good quality wood or multi-fuel stove should be considered. By using a stove rather than an open fire you will more than halve your fuel use, and much more than double the heat generated within your home. The downside of course is the cost of purchase and installation. Even so, given the long life of a good quality stove (20 to 40 years) and the astonishing increase in heat output over an open fire, it is an option worth considering. Running a single wood or multifuel stove in your house should vastly decrease your spend on expensive oil or gas. Of course there is also a cost to running a stove, but kilowatt for kilowatt this is well below burning fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas. Here are the options for fuelling a multi-fuel stove... - Coal-based products: high calorific value of around 68,000kWh/tonne. Tends to be expensive, dirty to handle and the cheaper coals leave a lot of unburnt ‘clinker’. - Traditional Logs: lower calorific value of around 3-4,000kWh/ tonne. First choice if you can get a good reliable supply of dry hardwood logs of the right size and at a reasonable cost. You need decent dry storage and logs can be messy and awkward to handle. - Wood Briquettes: medium calorific value of around 4.5 -5,500kWh/ tonne. Briquettes have the advantage over logs of being clean, consistent, easy to handle, carry, stack and store. Modern highperformance wood briquettes have improved massively from the early days. Of course you can still buy cheap rubbish, but the best quality briquettes are made with modern, highcompaction equipment. These high performance briquettes exceed traditional logs in terms of calorific value (heat generated) and can be lower in price. They also come in several different forms; some light easily and come to temperature quickly, others burn slower and generate a steady heat, while others are perfect for overnight burning. If you can get dry, locallyproduced logs at the right price, then of course that’s your first choice. But if your local logs are damp, dirty and difficult to handle why not give briquettes a go? Like many hundreds of others who have been converted, you may be pleasantly surprised. Rowland Parke, Wood Fuel Co-operative Glenkens Gazette page 6 Successful Season at the Golf Club The dinner was well attended with Gerry MacKechnie (Lady Captain) & Jeff Sutcliffe (Club Captain) hosting the evening which consisted of a pictorial review of the season and the presentation of prizes. The major prize winners were: Anne McQueen - Ladies Club Champion, Jonathan Dale Gentlemen’s Club Champion, Stuart Jamieson - MacMillan Cup Champion, and Scott Jamieson Coronation Cup Champion. The Winter Programme is now in full swing and the drainage work undertaken on the course during the summer appears to have been successful. The Senior Section meets on a Prize winners with their trophies. New Galloway Golf Club celebrated the end of the 2013 season in style with their Annual Dinner and Prize Presentation Evening at the Ken Bridge Hotel. Thursday morning at 9.30 and plays over the 15-hole course. Wigtownshire County was the course played on the first of the Senior Outings and there are further outings scheduled to be played at Portpatrick and Stranraer in the New Year. There is a Coffee Morning arranged for Saturday 7 December from 10am to 12noon at which there will be gifts for sale together with information about the club for anyone who would like to take up membership. Winter memberships are available and anyone interested should contact the Club Secretary, Ian on 01644 420737. All the Club’s results can be found by visiting either the Club website www.nggc.co.uk or www.masterscoreboard.co.uk. The Club’s Annual General Meeting is to take place on Thursday 5 December at 7.30pm in the clubhouse. Jeff Sutcliffe, Captain & Match Secretary New Galloway Golf Club CLACHAN FAIR UPDATE N ew Galloway Golf Club Founded Foun ded 1902 www.ng www.n g gc.co.uk v 01644 420737 v Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Cllr Finlay Carson Castle Douglas & Glenkens for an appointment Tel: 07825 633 185 or email: finlay@finlaycarson.co.uk www.finlaycarson.co.uk It seems a long time since Dalry Clachan Fair but you may be interested in how much money was made. The profit for the week was £1500. Grants are being made to the Town Hall and other organisations which support activities in the Glenkens. An amount has been held back to help with expenses for the 2015 Fair. Financially there have been more successful Clachan Fairs but we’re sure everyone who joined in the events had a good time! New ideas are always welcome to make the next fair even better. Sally Hooker GLENKENS MEDICAL PRACTICE General Medical & Dispensing Services The Surgery High Street New Galloway FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL  01644 420234  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 jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 7 CARSPHAIRN COMMUNITY PURCHASE Continued from front page... A group of highly motivated people in Carsphairn, led by David McMillan, created the Carsphairn Community Trust which came into being earlier this year. The purchase and development of Greystones as a sustainable community hub for the benefit of all is their first project. Within months of their creation the Trust had already applied for the funding for Stage 1. Steve Cowley, Chairman of the Trust, told the Gazette: “The trustees of the Carsphairn Community Trust are delighted that our primary objective has been achieved. We have managed to secure funding in order to purchase the old ‘Greystones’ building for the use and benefit of the Carsphairn community. We would like to thank everyone for their support and patience so far, and hope that the community as a whole will share our anticipation of the exciting challenges and achievements which lie ahead.” Steve continued to say that the funding was sufficient to ensure that the building can be made both wind and water tight. Carsphairn resident and former Chairman of the Community Council, Xmas Coffee Morning Following last year’s successful event Balmaclellan & Kells Guild together with St Margaret’s Ladies’ Guild are holding a Christmas Coffee Morning. This will be held in New Galloway Town Hall on Wednesday 11 December from 10.30 am to 12 noon. In addition to coffee, shortbread and mince pies there will be stalls, a lucky dip and tombola. Please come along and support this joint venture. JEFFERS THE GARDENER SAYS... ...Unless you have a green thumb, about the only thing you can raise with a seed catalogue is your hopes. ...Work well done never needs re-doing, unless of course it’s weeding. ...What we need is more people raising beans and fewer people spilling them. Matt Hickman said: “It is so exciting to hear such good news. I can honestly say that as someone that was involved in the very early stages of the project that I am aware of the hard work, effort, and tenacity that was required to see it through. A round of applause to everyone concerned. Well done!” Sara McNeill Glenkens Gazette page 8 MANAGING THE WINTER BLUES WITH MINDFULNESS Bringing light into the darkness - the mindful way to avoid winter S.A.D. -ness and depression. It was a wonderful summer of sunshine. Happiness came easily. As winter approaches, however, and the days draw in to long, dark nights, this is the time of year when the black dog of depression is most likely to visit and can be very difficult to shake off. One in three people, two thirds of whom are women, will suffer from some form of depression, anxiety or panic attacks during their lifetime. According to the World Health Organisation it afflicts about 120 million people worldwide. of it coming back. Oxford Mindfulness Centre Director Professor Mark Williams and his team in Oxford University’s Department of Psychiatry are responding to the pressing need for new ways to prevent depression. They are world leaders in research into the prevention of depression through mindfulness. They assert that Mindfulness can be a true life-saver and the evidence base is there to prove it. The results of trials are striking. They show that in patients with three or more previous episodes importance because it means that sustaining recovery from depression depends on learning how to keep mild states of depression from spiralling out of control. Mindfulness is certainly not a quick fix. It takes time and patience to change negative thought patterns permanently but with a bit of know-how and training you can turn the tide. Simple methods to calm the mind and repair mood can be learnt and improvements experienced quite quickly. The charity Anxiety UK urges anyone who suffers from anxiety and panic attacks to cut out caffeine and sugary ‘energy’ drinks and increase hydration levels with drinking more water. Trying to establish good sleep patterns and reducing ‘screen-time’ can also be extremely helpful. Getting out into nature and taking some form of exercise which naturally releases dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for happy mood states, is also extremely important. ...Oxford University’s Department of Psychiatry ... are world leaders in the field of research into the prevention of depression through mindfulness. Depression is a terrible thing to feel and the fact that mental health is still such a taboo subject means that sufferers often feel very lonely and isolated. There can be a sense from those around that they just need to ‘pull themselves together’ or from themselves that they just need a ‘good kick up the backside’. I have heard these words many times, but never seen this approach work. When you are in the quicksand what you actually need is for someone to throw you a rope, something that is actually going to work and the sooner the better. Currently the most commonly used treatment for depression is antidepressant medication. However, once the episode has past, and a person has stopped taking the antidepressants, depression tends to return and understandably one of the biggest fears for anyone who has been depressed is the dread of depression, mindfulness is as effective as antidepressants in preventing new episodes but has none of the side effects. New research shows that during any episode of depression a connection is formed between the mood that was present at that time and negative thinking patterns, so even when people feel well, the link between negative moods and negative thoughts can be sparked off by relatively small events. For example, you could find out your account is overdrawn or you didn’t get an interview for a job you weren’t originally sure you wanted anyway and the next thing you know your mind is telling you you’re a failure, etc. This sounds unlikely but because the mind has a tendency towards negativity, catastrophising and black-andwhite thinking it is actually very common and is of enormous Savouring happiness by consciously reflecting on all the things you feel appreciation and gratitude for in your life by keeping a gratitude journal by your bed and writing or drawing the positive things that have happened throughout the day, however small, can also be extremely helpful. Then the natural processes of stilling and deepening and turning inwards, which are all winter’s gifts, can be fully savoured and enjoyed. If you would like to find out more please contact Debra Hall (‘True Nature’), a practitioner with 23 years’ experience in the field of mindfulness, on debra.ha@hotmail.co.uk or 01644 430 013. Glenkens Gazette page 9 Over the past couple of months we have enjoyed the phenomenal Rapture Theatre, Lunasa and Son Al Son, and this high standard of act is set to continue throughout Christmas and the New Year. Highlights not to be missed include a special festive concert from Heidi Talbot & Friends on Wednesday 4 December. The line up will feature John McCusker, Andy Cutting, Ian Carr and Ewan Vernal and it is taking place in Dalry Town Hall. Other Christmas celebrations include a return of the popular Feral Choir with their atmospheric carols and readings on Friday 20 December and, giving a classical selection of festive favourites, are the Grayfriars Christmas Ensemble on Friday 13 December. The Youth Players return with their latest Pantomime - Aladdin. Prepare to boo, hiss and split your sides on Friday 6, Saturday 7 and, a special added matinee performance on Sunday 8 December. This really is one of the highlights of the year! Pick up some unique gifts at the CatStrand Christmas Shopping Day on Saturday 30 November. Browse local crafts and unique gift stalls while enjoying a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Brighten up the January evenings with the massive 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 Heidi Talbot CatStrand Highlights hit film Sunshine on Leith screening on Thursday 17 January; this film is a must-see and full of feel-good fun. Of course January wouldn’t be complete without a CatStrand Burns Supper; enjoy traditional haggis neeps and tatties in the company of friends - book your place early to avoid disappointment. For full listings see our latest brochure or visit www.catstrand.com, and to book tickets call the Box Office on 01644 420 374. Glenkens Gazette page 10 WATSON BIRD FESTIVAL 2013 Everyone who attended this year’s Watson Bird Festival was thrilled by the quality and variety of the programme. Indeed, there were so many events to attend, participants needed to plan carefully to ensure that they fitted them all in. Dalry Town Hall displayed excellent bird paintings from local school children showing that there are many talented budding artists in the Glenkens. They stood alongside a variety of paintings from professional artists, some old favourites returning and new ones joining us for the first time. Anne Errington showed her superb shadow puppets and told stories to all who would listen, enthralling young and old alike. Two science lectures demonstrated admirably the quality of research being undertaken to elucidate some of the complexities of raptors and their past and present environments. Those who could not join us outstanding. Those attending the photographic master class with Laurie, Morag Patterson and Ted Leeming learnt so much and we plan more workshops in the future. The festival always has its music. On Saturday evening we were treated to the magical sounds of the wellknown Scottish folk group The Whistlebinkies. And we ended on Sunday in The Clachan Inn with a session of young and old musicians with a splendid variety of instruments. Chris Rollie deserves special mention for opening eyes to the way that Donald Watson looked at the landscape as preparation for his paintings. He guided groups around the walking trail at Dalry and the longer art trail around the Glenkens to formally launch them and the brochures we have produced. Please pick up a copy at local shops or from the CatStrand. Although numbers were down on last year, we had a successful festival. We are reviewing what we learnt so that next year’s festival will be even better in content and attendance. So if you have any thoughts and ideas please let me know. Chris Rollie deserves special mention for opening eyes to the way that Donald Watson looked at the landscape as preparation for his paintings. Darren Woodhead giving a talk and demonstration in Dalry Town Hall. at the CatStrand for Laurie Campbell’s visual extravaganza of his wildlife photographs missed a rare treat. The quality of the photography was quite Roger Crofts, Watson Birds Director roger@watsonbirds.org 07803 595 267 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 11 Glenkens Gazette page 12 Glenkens Gazette page 13 Glenkens Gazette page 14 Glenkens Gazette page 15 ALL ABOARD Kells Primary’s Fantastic Fundraising THE BOOK Since 1993 Kells Primary has raised a staggering £10,671.80 for Macmillan Cancer Support. This year P7 Kells pupils raised £1,235.33 for the charity with a coffee morning at the Cross Keys Hotel in New Galloway. Pupils planned and advertised the coffee morning and served parents and friends of the school on the day. They also made collection tins for local businesses to collect donations for the charity. The children invited the charity’s fundraising manager, Angela McCormack, to the school recently to receive the cheque. The school would like to thank the Cross Keys Hotel and all the members of the local community who supported the coffee morning. BUS Pupils at Carsphairn make the most of the mobile library when it stops in the village every third Tuesday morning. As well as the usual returning and borrowing of books, mobile library man Graeme Cartner welcomed pupil librarians Reuben, Caitlin and Rachel (and the school library cat Dewey!) for a training session on the Dewey classification system. They learnt how the nonfiction is organised on the shelves and found all sorts of interesting books - well worth a look. To find out the mobile library rota of times and places in the Glenkens contact 01387 253 820. Kells pupils handing over the cheque to Angela McCormack. Carsphairn Castle Visit On the last day before the October break, the boys and girls from Carsphairn Primary took a trip to Stirling Castle. After learning all about the Scottish Wars of Independence, the children were keen to see the location of the Battle of Stirling Bridge. We had learned about the weapons used to attack castles, such as a battering ram, trebuchet and a siege tower; and were able to have a first hand look at how the castle defended itself. We learned all about how people living inside the castle would try to survive while the castle was under siege, and how Stirling Castle itself had changed hands several times. The views from the castle were brilliant and we were able to see the location of the Battle for Stirling Bridge and the Battle of Bannockburn, as well as the Wallace Monument. All in all, we had an excellent day and the children were able to have a lot of fun while they were learning about the history of Scotland. We would like to thank Keith Cooper and the Glenkens Transport Initiative for getting us safely to and from Stirling; we think he enjoyed the castle as much as us! Carsphairn Primary Glenkens Gazette page 16 Glenkens Gazette page 17 Community Transport Initiatives Receive Deserving Recognition At the recent Community Transport Association (Scotland) conference in Edinburgh, a £1million boost for Community Transport was announced. This was the result of a parliamentary enquiry and debate into the work done by Community Transport Initiatives across Scotland. This enquiry had received 80 written submissions, including one from the Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI), and it had become apparent there was a pressing need to replace old and worn out vehicles. This cash injection will be used for this, and whilst GTI will not qualify for any funding at this time, it was very obvious that the profile and work done by Community Transport has been heightened considerably. DRIVER TRAINING: We are very lucky to have our own qualified Midas Trainer, Jon Nimmo, who recently attended a refresher course in Edinburgh to allow him to continue Trip to Peebles; despite some heavy rain the this training. If you trip was enjoyed by all. would like to attend one of his courses please contact either NEW BUS: By the time you Jon or myself on 01644 420 374 read this the new eight-seater or gti@catstrand.com mini bus will be available! Finally, to all our travellers and SPRING PLANNING: As you will know we run very few trips in helpers, thank you for your support during the past year January, February and March as - have a happy Christmas and a it’s often not a good time of the safe and healthy New Year. year to be travelling, but if you have any ideas for trips in 2014 Best Wishes, Keith Cooper, please let me know. GTI Administrator 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 Glenkens Gazette page 18 Watson Bird Project continued from front page... The purchase of one half of the property has been made possible by a major donation from Viscount Gough who has been a patron and admirer of Donald’s work for many years. Andrew Mellor, Chairman of GCAT, paid tribute saying; “without Lord Gough’s very generous donation, the project would not have been able to proceed.” Speaking on behalf of the Watson family, Donald’s daughter Louise said that seeing her childhood home becoming the focus for activities relating to the study and appreciation of birds was a fitting tribute to the work of her father and brother. “We are also selling part of the property to the Pamela Young Trust which has pleased the family greatly. This separate project will see the provision of two social housing units for local people.” Following the sale of Barone, the development of the capital funding plan and working with the design team under Architect John Murray from Moniaive, will be the next step. Andrew Mellor believes that the creation of the Watson Bird Centre has the potential to bring lasting benefit • 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 **NEW** Yorkshire Building Society Agency – Now Open 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. to the Glenkens. “If you would like to get involved in any way or would like to make a donation to the project, please contact me, Roger Crofts or Brian Edgar.” For further information on the Watson Bird Project visit www.watsonbirds.org Aileen McLeod MSP working for you across the South of Scotland Postal address: Unit 7 Loreburn Shopping Centre High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2BD Email: aileen.mcleod.msp@scottish.parliament.uk Tel: 01387 255 334 Please check www.aileenmcleod.org for regular surgery, constituency and parliamentary updates Glenkens Gazette page 19 CARSPHAIRN IN 2013 In the next few issues the Gazette will take a look back over the past year for each of the Glenkens villages and applaud some of the achievements of dynamic individuals and communities. Carsphairn has blossomed this year, showing its trademark fighting response to what initially looked to be a fairly dire set of events. The village shop and tearoom sadly had to close, but due to the hard work and determination of Carsphairn Village Shop Ltd (CVSL) a new tenant was found quickly and it has reopened with new, bright livery and loads of fresh ideas. The Post Office too saw a temporary closure, but is now open every Thursday morning in the Lagwyne Hall. The relocating of the Post Office gave rise to another bright idea; a community craft morning where all those interested in local and traditional crafts come together and work on their various projects; a definite silver lining to what initially seemed a very dark cloud. For some years the closure of the Greystones pub has been a loss for the village but as reported on the front page, action is now being taken to bring Greystones into community use. Business too is booming in this small village, successfully bringing in visitors from far and wide. Carsphairn now has two B&Bs in the heart of the village. Interestingly, Kirkholm and The Knowe B&Bs are housed in former church properties. Kirkholm, with its views of the Crogan and over to Carnavel hill topped by the King’s Burial Cairn, is the former Free Church of Scotland kirk. The Knowe, area, but it is beginning to gain an excellent reputation further afield. Those interested in family history, and in Carsphairn’s place in Scottish history, are becoming visitors to Centre. D&G Family History Centre recently published a booklet of memorial inscriptions in the churchyard as amended by Mrs Jean Gibbon of the Heritage Centre. One of the most visual displays of the value of the centre can be seen in the kirkyard itself; the Jamieson family from Australia contacted the Heritage Centre to discover information about their family. The result was that the memorial to the Jamieson family in Carsphairn’s kirkyard was renovated and once again stands as a proud monument to the lives of their ancestors. Once again the Knockengorroch Community Interest Group (Carsphairn’s biggest employer) staged the Knockengorroch World Ceilidh, a great selection of music and entertainment for all.This year 3000 people attended another successful event. Carpshairn’s glorious hills provided a backdrop for BBC Alba’s filming of working-dog trials. The blustery winds… blustery winds did spook the competitors a little but the programme will have introduced many more people to the area’s wonderful scenery. All in all 2013 has, despite the various challenges, proved a great year for Carsphairn. The opening of the Core Paths has also brought in many new visitors. Carsphairn’s enterprising and dynamic community have again worked hard and made it an even better place to live and work. Here’s to 2014! Sara McNeill Carpshairn’s glorious hills provided a backdrop for BBC Alba’s filming of working-dog trials. which contains many of the rather beautiful original features of buildings from this age, is the former Free Church of Scotland manse. The B&Bs are run by new-comers to the area who fell in love with both Scotland and the village. The biggest boon for Carsphairn, though, is that there is now somewhere to stay for the many people who are discovering the delights of this wonderful little village. The Heritage Centre, a fabulous resource of local history and knowledge, has had its busiest year yet. The creative and informative exhibitions have always drawn in those from the local View over the village from the Community Garden. Glenkens Gazette page 20 The Road to the Gallows In the final hour of 13 January 1862 a horse drawn omnibus made its way along the main street in New Galloway: the only passenger was a young mother with her baby, a boy just over a year old. The woman, who had been forced to leave her three little daughters with their grandmother in Dalry, was being taken to the police house following her arrest for the brutal murder of her neighbour. The wife of PC John Robson welcomed the prisoner, despite the charges against her, and made tea. Meanwhile the officer travelled to Kirkcudbright to get instructions from the chief constable. PC Robson was out of his depth, used to dealing with petty crime and debtors, the usual occupants of the small New Galloway gaol. No-one had been charged with murder in the whole of south west Scotland for more than a generation, but by morning rumours of the death of Anne Hannah as she went about her washing on a cold winter morning would be the cause of shock and horror across the region. Unaware of the storm that lay ahead, Mary Robson sat with 27year-old Mary Reid, or Timney as she’d been known since her marriage to an Irish labourer a decade before. As the baby slept on her knee, Mary Timney talked about the arguments she’d had with her older neighbour, Anne Hannah, who kept house for her two brothers at Carsphad farm, three miles north of Dalry. In recent weeks the two women had fought over woodcollecting and the theft of turnips from the farm but Mary denied, and would continue to deny, that she had killed Anne Hannah. But Mary Timney was a young woman with a reputation for being volatile; some claimed that she drank and had been seen with men other than her husband, a man 20 years her senior. When a reporter arrived at Dalry from Dumfries only days later there were many people who were only too happy to share the gossip and rumours that abounded in the small community. When Anne Hannah had been discovered dying from horrific head injuries on her kitchen floor, her friend had not sought help from Mary, although her house stood only 60 yards away. Instead, Agnes McLellan had turned south to get help from the lodge at Knocknalling. When Anne Hannah died later that day PC Robson went straight to the one room cottage that was the home of the Timneys and arrested Mary, despite her protestations that she was innocent. No one believed Mary Timney and as the stories of the murder reached the newspapers across Scotland, judge, Lord Deas. Living up to his nickname of ‘Lord Death’, given to him by his colleagues, he told Mary that she would be hanged. Her desperate pleadings did nothing to change his mind, but they had an effect on the public. In the following weeks many backed a campaign for a reprieve as details of Mary’s difficult life became known and she admitted to a struggle with her neighbour that had resulted in Anne’s death. Thousands signed petitions across the region in an attempt to change Mary’s sentence to one of imprisonment. Despite backing from several members of parliament, and the victim’s own twin brother William, the Home Secretary refused to interfere with the sentence and on 29 April 1862 Mary was hanged on a gallows at Dumfries prison in Buccleuch Street, before a crowd of more than 3,000 onlookers. Mary’s distressing and public death prompted outrage across Scotland. Dumfries MP William Ewart, a life-long abolitionist, made another attempt to change the law on capital punishment with the resulting Royal Commission bringing an end to public executions. Mary Reid or Timney, who spent most of her life living quietly in the remote community of the Glenkens, went down in history as the last woman ...by morning rumours of the death of Anne Hannah as she went about her washing on a cold winter morning would be the cause of shock and horror across the region. soon everyone had just one opinion of the young woman. She was depicted in black and white as a “savage and implacable monster.” Living in poverty, the family had no money for legal advice and after several weeks in Kirkcudbright prison, and after her baby was taken from her, Mary made a wild accusation blaming her own mother for the murder. The evidence against her, though Jayne Baldwin has written the first circumstantial, was seen book examining the Glenkens Murder as damning; a bundle Mary Timney, The Road to the of bloodstained clothes discovered in the Gallows, available priced £7.95 from rafters of the cottage, independent booksellers and online and a wooden beetle retailers. (a heavy tool used for beating material) found Jayne will be doing a talk about the hidden beneath a press. case at the CatStrand on Saturday Despite the fact that 7 December at 2pm, hosted by the the key witnesses had been four young girls, Carsphairn Heritage Group; please including Mary’s eldest contact the CatStrand for further daughters aged just details and to book on 420 374. nine and seven, it took only twenty minutes Two poems written in the Glenkens for the jury to find her about the Carsphad or Glenkens Murder guilty of murder; but what shocked people are available to see at the Carsphairn most was the sentence Heritage Centre, along with a file of given by the Edinburgh information about the case. Glenkens Gazette page 21 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN The Glenkens Rebellion: The Road to Rullion Green The covenanters had endorsed their rebellion at Dalry by capturing the Governor of the South-West, LieutenantColonel Sir James Turner, at Dumfries. They then continued, marching up the Cairn to Glencairn Kirk at Kirkland, and on 16 November 1666 returned to the Old Clachan of Dalry where the whole sad escapade began. Andrew Symson, episcopalian minister of Kirkinner and author of A Large Description of Galloway (1684), cited a witness’s manuscript journal. “At night Andrew Gray and Sir James were lodg’d at Mr Chalmers of Waterside’s house, being on the other side of the river of Kenn, not far from the Old Clachan”. About eleven at night, fearing that the Earl of Annandale and Lord Drumlanrig were approaching, “Gray march’d immediately, though the night was very dark and raining, and the way very bad, eight miles to Carsphairn”, where Turner was lodged for one night in a country house which also quartered 16 horsemen and another night at the house of Gordon of Knockgray, who was then a prisoner in Kirkcudbright. The mysterious Gray absconded with Turner’s hoard never to be seen again. The question of whether Gray, described in one source as an Edinburgh merchant, was an agent provocateur, has never been satisfactorily answered. What was certain was that the outlook for the rebels was as grim as the wet November weather. Wallace of Auchans who was appointed commander. Next day, 21 November, a royal proclamation pronounced the insurrection to be an ‘open, manifest and horrid rebellion, and high treason’; the rebels faced the ultimate penalty if they failed to submit within 24 hours, much too short a period for the word to travel throughout Galloway where the covenanters were attempting to recruit. At Lanark the force, now numbering around 800, subscribed anew the Solemn League and Covenant of 1643, declaring that they were acting in self defence. The whole world knew that Charles II had sworn to adhere to the covenants and to defend the Church of Scotland but instead had established episcopal government, Penicuik. The rebels had tried to persuade Turner to adopt the covenant to no avail; he retorted that Turner was not for turning! But he did promise some of the covenanters that if they protected him during the ensuing battle he would ensure their lives were spared, only to later betray his cynical pledge. The outcome was not in doubt. Psalm-singing and the pious utterings of preachers were no defence against government weaponry and an estimated 3,000 troops. The whigs charged and for a time all was confusion as the troops engaged hand to hand. ‘They mixed like chessmen in a bag’ wrote one witness. The ill-armed peasant army was demolished. ‘Whig’ originating in Galloway and Ayrshire as a term for a rural buffoon, and later a Presbyterian or covenanter is thought to have derived from the Old Scots verb, ‘whig’, to drive horses, ‘whiggam’ being the cry the driver used. A contemporary poem stresses its inadequacy. The weapons included halbards, dirks, slings, flails, spears, pikes, spades, plough coulters, scythes, arrowless bows and rusting guns. ...“Gray march’d immediately, though the night was very dark and raining, and the way very bad, eight miles to Carsphairn”... They moved on to Dalmellington as Turner was deaved with promises of his imminent demise and a tedious lecture on the covenant by the radical minister, John Welch. At Ayr they were joined by James ‘in its height of tyranny’, with subsequent fines, imprisonment, quarterings of soldiers and abuse of the people. At Lanark the ragged little army split with the main body heading for Edinburgh while the rest made for Glasgow. Wallace seems to have hoped for some kind of parley with the authorities but Edinburgh was fortified and barred against him and worse, the “Muscovite Beast’, Lieutenant-General Tam Dalyell of the Binns was in close pursuit, a man who refused to cut his long beard after the execution of Charles I, 17 years earlier and who, in covenanting mythology, beat the Devil at cards by cheating! In desperation Wallace led his diminishing force – deserters outnumbered recruits – along the edge of the Pentlands to make a stand at Rullion Green near The cleverest men stood in the van, The Whigs they took to their heels and ran, But such a raking ne’er was seen, As the raking o the Rullion Green To be concluded... Ted Cowan Glenkens Gazette page 22 DECEMBER & JANUARY DECEMBER Mon 2, Bus Trip – Hetland Hall Garden Centre and Moffat Wed 4, Heidi Talbot & Friends, 7.30pm, Dalry Town Hall Thurs 5, New Galloway Golf Club AGM, 7.30pm, the clubhouse, see p6 Fri 6, Sat 7 (7.30pm) & Sun 8 (2pm), CatStrand Youth Players Pantomime: Aladdin by John Morley, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 7, Bus Trip – Glasgow Sat 7, Mary Timney Talk by Jayne Baldwin, 2pm, CatStrand, see p20 Wed 11, Xmas Coffee Morning, 10.30am12noon, New Galloway Town Hall, see p7 Wed 11, Open Stage Christmas, 7.30pm, CatStrand Wed 11, Open Stage Christmas, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 20, Forgotten Carol’s: The Feral Choir, 7.30pm, CatStrand JANUARY Mon 13, Glenkens Community Centre Open Meeting, 7.30pm, Community Centre, Dalry at 7:30pm, see p2 Fri 17, Film: Sunshine on Leith, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 31, CatStrand Burns Supper, 7pm, CatStrand CARSPHAIRN SHEEPDOG TRIALS Sheepdog trials filmed in Carsphairn will be shown on BBC Alba each week until Tuesday 4 March. DATE FOR YOUR DIARY The weekend of Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 April 2014 will host a variety of events celebrating the life and works of SR Crockett. Contact the CatStrand (420 374) and the Ken Bridge Hotel (420 211) for further info, and look out in the next issue of the Gazette for more details. CARSPHAIRN BURNS SUPPER Friday 17th January 7.30 for 8pm “Immortal Memory” to be proposed by Mr Ted Cowan To reserve tickets (£10) phone Jean Gibbon on 01644 460 244 (please note change to a Friday) GTI WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE (registered route) Outward Journey: 19:00 Dept. Dalry (Underhill) 19:05 New Galloway 19:15 Mossdale 19:25 Laurieston 19:30 Townhead of Greenlaw 19:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) Return journey: 20:35 Dept. Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 20:47 Townhead of Greenlaw 21:50 Laurieston 21:00 Mossdale 21:10 New Galloway 21:15 Dalry To book a Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) bus or for more information please contact keith cooper, GTI Administrator, on 01644 420 374. Glenkens Gazette page 23 REGULAR EVENTS CatStrand (New Galloway): Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am Ukelele Group, Mon, 11.15am, 60+ Ukelele Improvers, Mon, 1pm, 60+ Free Computer Training; Beginners & Improvers, Mon (starting 4 Nov), 1.30pm Margaret Morris Movement Adult Dance Class, Mon, 2.30-3.30pm, contact Sara on 01556 612854 Children’s Dance Class: Mon during term time, 3.45-4.45pm age 3-7, 4.30-5.30pm ages 8-15 Let’s Cook, Tues, 10am Carers’ Coffee & Chat: Tues, 10am-12noon Let’s Cook, Tues, 10am Teen Spirit: Tues during term time, 7-8:30pm (P7-S3) and 8-9:30pm (S3+) Gentle Tai Chi, Wed, 10am, 60+ Sing it Out: Thurs, 11.30am 12.30pm Pilates: Thurs, 4.15-5.15pm & 5.30-6.30pm Knit & Blether Club, last Fri each month, 2pm, 60+ Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri each month, 2pm Saturday Art Club: 2nd Sat each month, 10am–12noon Zumbatomic, last Sat each month,10-10.45am Catstrand Youth Players: Sun during term time, 2pm Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, last Sun of the month, 2-4pm Glenkens Community Centre (Dalry): (contact Kath 430 281) Glenkens Children’s Club: Mon & Fri, 9.15-11.45am Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm & Wed, 7-9pm Ballroom & Latin Dance Class: Mon, 7.15, for more info call Sam Rushton on 420 672 GCC Playgroup, Tue & Thurs, 9.2011.50am, contact keronh@me.com Good Neighbours’ Club: Tues, 2pm Kickback Martial Arts: Thurs, 7-9pm Thursday Craft Group: Thurs, 24pm Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm Guides: Tue during term-time, 6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281 Carsphairn Post Office & Craft Morning, Thurs, 9.30-11.30am, Lagwyne Hall Texas Hold ‘em Poker, Mon, 7.15pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.4511.15am, New Galloway Town Hall Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Dog Training: Tue & Wed, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. Contact: Eric 460 670 Tai Jitsu: Wed, Junior Class (age 6- To hire the MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) behind Dalry School call Sonja Tranter on 430 244 or Nicolette Wise on 430 218. Various Locations: Glenkens Community Councils Balmaclellan Community Council Meetings: 3rd Monday each month, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall. Carsphairn Community Council Meetings: Last Monday each month, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn. Dalry Community Council Meetings: 1st Monday each month, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. New Galloway & Kells Community Council Meetings: 2nd Monday each month, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall. Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library. CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon: 1st. Carsphairn: 10.30am: 1st,2nd,3rd,4th. Dalry: 12noon: 1st,2nd(Jan),3rd, 4th. Kells: 10.30am: 2nd (Jan),3rd,4th Special Services/Events: 8 Dec, 10.30am: United Family Service, Dalry Church 8 Dec, 6.30pm: Carols by Candlelight in Kells Church, with Glenkens Church Choir 21 Dec, 5pm: Carsphairn Church Community Christmas Service and Children’s Party 14), 6-7pm; Senior Class, 7-8.30pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn, contact David on 07547 134 276, see p5 Wednesday Quiz Night, Wed, 8.30pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Stewartry Camera Club: Wed, 7.30pm, Ringford Village Hall, runs Wed 11 Sept till end Mar 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 24 Dec, 11.30pm: Watchnight Service, Carsphairn Church 25 Dec, 10.30am: Christmas Day Family Service, Balmaclellan Church 29 Dec, 10.30am: United Service with Choir, Dalry 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 Hard of Hearing Group Drop-in, 2nd Thurs each month, 11am-12noon, Castle Douglas Town Hall Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Dalry Library Tue: 2-4.30pm & 5.30-7.30pm Fri: 11.15am-1:15pm & 2-4.30pm. There are 23 mobile library stops - to find out where and when please phone 430 234. ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 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 Glenkens Gazette 20 is the Limit The villages of the Glenkens could be transformed by this simple measure, enabling safer walking and cycling. The council has drawn up a list of priorities to limit the speed of motor traffic in some of our communities (see p24 of Broadcast magazine, recently distributed to all D&G households and available online). 20mph zones will be considered in locations where ‘need and support’ can be demonstrated by the community (with a minimum of five residents showing support). Reducing the large number of short journeys by car and replacing them with journeys on bikes or walking can improve our fitness and health. Cycling can also improve our communities by reducing congestion, improving air quality and reducing the amount of carbon we produce. The Cycling Action Plan for Scotland (2013) from Transport Scotland included key points on extending and improving cycling infrastructure, together with more 20mph areas and greater support for vulnerable road users (which includes the children of the Glenkens). Cycling means different things to different people. For a child, it may be a fun activity to do with friends, for an adult it may be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to get to work. At the National Access Forum recently, Professor R Mitchell, of Glasgow University’s Institute of CHRISTMAS TREES & Venison For Sale Norman trees - no needle drop - Open House Sale - Saturday 14 December between 10am and 4pm or by appointment Free delivery within the Glenkens area. We also have venison bags ready to go... We are situated off the B729 between Moniaive and Carsphairn. Strahanna Farm, Water o’ Ken Tel: 01644 460 660 Email: strahannastalking@gmail.com WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on 07727 127 997 or glenkensgazette@hotmail.co.uk FEB/MAR COPY DEADLINE: MON 6 JAN page 24 Health & Wellbeing, pointed to evidence on the restorative effect of being out of doors in natural surroundings, with rates of healing increased and stress and fatigue reduced. Next year a National Walking Strategy will be published with January 2014 seeing consultation with stakeholders, and at a recent Planning, Housing and Environment committee confirmation of a £158,000 grant from Transport Scotland for Cycling, Walking & Safer Streets projects was accepted by D&G Council. Can we in the Glenkens do some of this? June Hay LOCAL GRANTS AVAILABLE The deadline for applications for Glenkens Community Shop grants is Saturday 14 December. The volunteers at the Glenkens Community Shop wish all our customers and donors a merry Christmas and a happy New Year - thank you! The association’s objectives are: (a) The advancement of citizenship and community development within the Glenkens. (b) The relief of those in need by reason of age, disability, financial hardship or any other disadvantage. Both organisations and individuals can apply for a grant. Application forms are available from Glenkens Community Shop, 34 Main St, Dalry and should be addressed for the attention of Shirley McNaught. Design & co-ordination: Sarah Ade sarah_ade@tiscali.co.uk Printing:Stranraer & Wigtownshire Free Press www.stranraer-freepress.co.uk The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No. SC032050  Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. 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Title A name given to the resource Glenkens Gazette Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Glenkens Gazette Description An account of the resource <p>Find out more about the Gazette: <a href="https://glenkens.scot/gazette-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glenkens Gazette home page</a> If you would like to submit an article or take out an advert, please email the editor Sarah Ade: <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:glenkensgazette@hotmail.com">glenkensgazette@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is a member of, and regulated by <span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.impressorg.com/">Impress</a>.</p> <p>The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of Glenkens Community &amp; Arts Trust (SC032050) and represents the voice of the community (not necessarily the views of GCAT).</p> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’s Town of Dalry February/March 2014 ISSUE 80 FREE WET AND WILD IN THE GLENKENS Monday 30 December 2013 saw flood levels in the Dee catchment area at their highest since records began in 1977, with over 2” of rainfall within 12 hours in parts of the Galloway hills. Communities in the Glenkens were heavily hit all round with extreme wind, power cuts and severe flooding. Accross the area trees were blown onto power lines, causing power-cuts which for some lasted days. And just when things seemed to have settled down a bit, the rain came on. Homes, businesses, venues, farms and many roads were affected, with some properties under two feet of water. Worst affected by the water were Carsphairn and New Galloway, with the main road in Carsphairn becoming impassable and in New Galloway the road from the Ken Bridge to Quarry This photo, taken by Jayne Grimwood, shows the extent of the flooding; it is looking over the main road by the Grennan, towards the Ken Bridge which you can see in the middle left of the picture. Corner was more river than road with portions of the tarmac being swept away. More than eight properties in Carsphairn were flooded while New Galloway’s CatStrand was also badly affected. The flooding has been the worst for many years - it was reported that the last time you could take a boat down the main road in Carsphairn was 60 years ago, and if anyone had been inclined this time they could have had a good run! Brian Edgar, New Galloway resident and general manager at the CatStrand, said: “It’s the worst flooding I’ve seen in my lifetime (53 years), and everyone I’ve met says it’s the worst that they have ever seen.” Glenkens Guides Win Top Award Two local Girl Guides have won Guiding’s highest award. 1st Glenkens Guides enjoy a celebratory cake made by Kimberley who is working towards her Confectioner’s Badge. A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini�a�ve Patrol Leaders Kimberley McAdam and Ellen Bielinski of the 1st Glenkens Guide Unit have achieved prestigious BadenPowell Challenge badges after months of planning and hard work. Kimberly and Ellen had to select and complete ten challenges covering a balance of five life skills - healthy lifestyles, global awareness, discovery, skills and relationships, and celebrating diversity. Ellen says her favourite challenge was helping at Brownie Meetings to fulfil a community service challenge. Story continued on p8... www.glenkensgaze�e.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 Support for Community Centre The move towards transferring the Glenkens Community Centre from Dumfries & Galloway Council to community ownership continues apace. At a very well-attended Open Meeting in January, those present showed unanimous support for keeping the Centre open. In Hard of Hearing Group Hi Sarah, Many thanks for getting our piece in the Gazette last issue - on the back of this, I have already met one potential volunteer! I will keep you updated once I have recruited volunteers with a start date for a Glenkens drop-in. Thanks again, Julie Turner Cllr Finlay Carson Castle Douglas & Glenkens for an appointment Tel: 07825 633 185 or email: finlay@finlaycarson.co.uk www.finlaycarson.co.uk particular, strong enthusiasm was shown for creating a Trust or similar organisation that would own the community centre but could also be extended if requested to the other public buildings in Dalry such as the town hall, the library and of course the red phone box. Helen Keron, Chair of the Community Centre, said: “We were delighted both with the high turn-out and the very positive feedback that the management committee received for the work done so far and for their plans for the future. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed so constructively.” The next steps are to obtain a structural survey of the building, refine the business case for the running of the centre and to create the Trust that will form the backbone of the new structure. As ever, any and all offers of help are gratefully accepted. Helen Keron Glenkens Business Association (GBA) The GBA has been taking a sabbatical over the last year! If you are a new business or organisation and would like to be included in the next issue of The Glenkens Directory just contact Alan Rumble (420 250) or Ros Hill (420 632) Rosy Glow The Rosy Glow section is a space for people to include, anonymously if they like, their thanks, admiration and general positivity about something a local person or organisation has done that has made them feel good. “I should like to mention Wright’s shop, Dalry for the friendly welcome and helpfulness of lindsay and her staff.” A Dalry Resident You can text or email your Rosy Glow comments to the Gazette (contact details on back page). Local Initiatives in New Galloway (LING) Constructive discussions are now being held with Dumfries & Galloway Council to work out how the community can take over management or ownership of the Town Hall. If you would like to be involved in this or have any ideas for using it or for other initiatives for New Galloway please contact Ros Hill on 420 632 or at ros.hill@rathanhouse.me.uk CASTLE DOUGLAS MOT CENTRE MOTs £45 Unit 6, Greenlaw Business Park, Castle Douglas, DG7 2LH Tel: 01556 503 090 Open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 6pm Glenkens Gazette Photo of the Issue: ‘Wild Weather’ page 3 Sponsored by the Ken Bridge Hotel This issue’s winner is David Bartholomew with Bridge to Nowhere. The shot of the suspension bridge in Dalry really shows how high the water was. There were some other great photographs illustrating the level of flooding around the Glenkens so we thought we’d include some others too. We will keep all entries on file and if they suit a future theme/season, they will be re-considered. Photos, clockwise, are David Bartholomew’s picture of the suspension bridge in Dalry, Ben Ade’s shot of the road from New Galloway to the Ken Bridge, Nigel Martin’s photo of the A713 in Carsphairn, Paul Goodwin’s picture the Ken Bridge and a shot of mopping up at the CatStrand. Glenkens Gazette page 4 sponsored by EVERYTHING listed in the Glenkens Freecycle section is FREE - you just need to contact the owner and go and pick it up! 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. Various Ladies bicycle, 21 gears, quite old but good condition. Contact: 460 516 CRT screen. Black with black stand. Not HD but can be used with video tapes and DVDs. Contact: 420 632 Upright piano. Contact: Sarah on 430 417 Maxim 14” tv and built in dvd player with technica freeview box. Contact: 450 685 Two garden seats needing a new home and some TLC. Phone 460640’ HP laser printer 5P. Contact: Ken on 460 516 Child/Baby 1 large oval trampoline – excellent quality when new (bought in 2000). It no longer has a safety net. Contact: Bryher on 430 039 1 baby newborn car seat. Contact: Bryher on 430 039 1 car booster seat. Contact: Bryher on 430 039 A selection of toy babies, clothes and equipment. Contact: Bryher on 430 039 Electrical 8 downlighters 50 watts. Contact: Ann on 420 445 Dell computer monitor, 15inch screen. Contact: Ann on 420 445 Dell keyboard. Contact: Ann on 420 445 Dell speakers. Contact: Ann on 420 445 Logitech QuickCam S7500 with box, software & manual (for Skype). Contact: Ann on 420 445 Panasonic Colour TV, 16.5” x 11.5” Wright’s Shop Dalry Licensed grocer & newsagent with filled rolls, pies and hot & cold drinks to take away. Local supplier of Corson’s Bakers, Ballard’s Butchers and Mitchell’s Fruit & Veg Opening Times: Monday to Friday: 7am – 6pm Saturday: 8am – 6pm Sunday: 8.30am – 4pm Tel: 01644 430 225 Remington electric foot spa. Contact: Fiona on 07789 903127 Pifco electric facial sauna. Contact: Fiona on 07789 903127 Samsung 800w microwave. Looks good as new and works perfectly but Contact: Alan on a bit grotty inside. 07769 680938 FOR SALE ‘Breyer’ red jeep and horsebox set. They are large (traditional size) and Bronnen has decided to sell them! These cost £50 each new! Selling for £30 each/£50 for both. Contact Bryher on 430 039 on 430 039 Hamster cage, Rotastak – large cage with lots of accessories, levels etc. (used for 1 hamster only, now clean and ready for new resident). £25 (bought for £40+). Contact: Bryher on 430 039 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 jeeps@whbjeeps.co.uk www.whbjeeps.co.uk Lovely old style Pram (new in 1996), with suspension, complete with hood, waterproof cover, cosy, nearly new wheels. £25 ono. Contact: Bryher on 430 039 Karate outfit – Blitz Sports white cotton, size childs 0/130. £7.50. Contact: Bryher on 430 039 Karate outfit – Blitz Sports red silky style top with black trousers size 2/150. £12. Contact: Bryher 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. www.facebook.com/fleetfish Glenkens Gazette page 5 sponsored by PROS AND CONS OF WOOD AS A FUEL Every fuel has its own pros and cons, and wood fuel is no different. fuel. There is no doubt that good management of our woodlands for timber production is highly beneficial, but there is a danger that this will lead to naturally fallen timber being taken to feed this market for wood instead of being left on the woodland floor as a highly valuable habitat for a myriad of flora and fauna. Of course, the wood has to come from somewhere, so where is best? - FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) is an independent, non-governmental, not for profit organization established to promote the responsible management of the world’s forests. Try to make sure your timber started its journey to is relatively dry), and store undercover over summer ready for use the following winter, then traditional logs are also the most economic option. - Manufactured Briquettes are I use wood fuel, but I also sell it the new kids on the block. These in its many different forms, so I modern, high performance get feedback from hundreds of briquettes are consistent in customers which I will précis to size, moisture content and help you choose the best fuel for performance. They are clean your household. and easy to handle, stack and store. Being less than half Environmental Considerations the moisture content and of I know most of you will skip greater density than traditional this and I fully understand logs they generate more heat, why. I also have had enough of more consistently and over a being preached at by the global longer period, and are generally warming lobby. Like the majority made from timber waste from of you I just want to stay warm manufacturing processes. at the lowest possible monetary Whereas you might put two or cost. However, if you want to three logs on the fire at one factor in environmental time, you will only need one issues, the beauty of wood Whereas you might put good quality briquette, any fuel is that it is carbon and you risk creating dioxide neutral, in that it two or three logs on the fire at more a furnace! Quality is the absorbs as much carbon only proviso. There are one time, you will only need dioxide during its growing plenty of inferior quality, life as it emits whilst one good quality briquette, poorly compacted, cheap burning to keep us warm. briquettes out there. They any more and you risk It is also fully renewable give briquettes a bad name. over a relatively short creating a furnace! Price? 40 to 100 year growing cycle. If the wood you This you might find difficult your fireplace from one of these are burning is a waste product to believe, but facts are facts. sustainably managed woodlands. or comes from FSC (Forest Most people pay about £60 for a Stewardship Council) certificated - Arboricultural Waste is builders ‘dumpy’ or ‘tote’ bag of wood generated as a result woodland, so much the better. logs. Many log sellers describe of woodland management So wood gets a big tick in the this as approximately 1 cubic professionals pruning or environmental box. metre. Measure it (height x removing trees that have, for Wildlife Issues width x depth) and you will find instance, grown to the stage most tote bags contain between In my opinion this is not quite where they are a potential 600 and 700 litres, not 1,000 so clear-cut. The proliferation of danger to the general public litres. If those logs are dried wood stove installations over the using roads, footpaths, down to 20% moisture content last decade looks set to continue gardens and other public places. (ready to burn without creating into the foreseeable future. Lots This is a very common source of tar in your chimney) then the of wood stoves require lots of average ‘builders bag’ will weigh wood and most folk want to burn logs and they are usually cheap because the arboriculturalist has approx. 200kg. That means you only hardwood, which comes already been paid for taking the require five bags to equal one from our deciduous trees like timber down and can afford to tonne. 5 x £60 = £300. Good oak, ash, beech, sycamore, elm sell cheap to clear it away. The quality briquettes cost between and so on. Many of these tree £250 and £350 per tonne. No species, like ash and oak provide problem is that it is rarely dry enough to burn right away. wonder there is a massive highly valuable wildlife habitat What Form is Best? movement by enlightened folk whilst growing, and all provide to burning briquettes instead of invaluable habitat whilst they - Traditional Logs are most decay after death. logs. people’s first choice. They are readily available and if you are The forestry lobby want us Rowland Parke able to purchase ‘late winter to bring ‘under managed’ Wood Fuel Co-operative felled timber’ (when the sap is woodlands into management to down and newly felled timber help meet this market for wood Glenkens Gazette Originating in the United States in the 1980’s, the concept behind Neighbourhood Watch was simple; working together can help to improve your community. Currently, Dumfries and Galloway already has a significant number of active Neighbourhood Watch schemes. Whilst many schemes are long-established, there are new schemes being established all the time. Some areas of Scotland - Fife and Grampian, for example - have formed Regional Associations to provide focus and support for local schemes and to share good practice. Following discussions by a group of Dalry residents and the Stewartry Crime Reduction Officer, it has been decided to look at the re-instatement of a Neighbourhood Watch group in Dalry, open for all present and page 6 future residents to join. The Neighbourhood Watch scheme is designed to bring local people and organisations together to address community safety and security issues. It is not just about local crime or antisocial activity but helps tackle issues of cyber-crime, internet fraud and unsolicited cold callers or visitors. Some of the benefits of Neighbourhood Watch include: - Local issues can be shared and addressed. - Support and practical advice given to those affected by identified issues. - Residents work together to make their community better. - Opportunity to bring the residents and the other community organisations of Dalry together. - Being a member may qualify you for a discount on your home insurance (speak to your insurance provider) The first meeting of the proposed Dalry Neighbourhood Watch, to which all residents are invited to attend, will take place on Monday 17 February in Dalry Town Hall at 7pm. Anyone who lives in the village and is interested in finding out more is urged to come along to discuss the need for and the benefits of having a Neighbourhood Watch group for Dalry. For more information about Neighbourhood Watch in Scotland, please visit www.neighbourhood watchscotland.co.uk CELEBRATING SR CROCKETT Here’s a date for your diaries: the weekend of Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 April 2014 will be a variety of events celebrating the life and works of S R Crockett. The weekend starts on Saturday 5 April with the CatStrand hosting A celebration and commemoration of the life and work of Samuel Rutherford Crockett. The work of Galloway’s best known and best-loved storyteller, on the 100th anniversary of his death, will be remembered through speakers such as Margaret Elphinstone, Alison Burgess, Douglas Gifford and Ted Cowan. Tickets are £10 per person, and are available from the CatStrand on 01644 420 374. On Saturday evening at 7.30pm at the Ken Bridge Hotel there will also be an S R Crockett Celebratory Dinner; an evening of excellent food, poetry and song. A three-course meal will be served and period costume is optional. Advance booking and payment is essential - tickets are £25 per person, and are available from the Ken Bridge Hotel on 01644 420 211. And to round-up the weekend, a tour of Crockett sites in the Glenkens is planned for Sunday 6 April; look out for further information about these events. Ted Cowan FHB Fencing New Galloway Family and friends coming to stay? Golf Club Short of space? Founded 1902 Cosy country cottage available (sleeps 4) www.nggc.co.uk v 01644 420737 v Buggies now available for hire VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Call Fiona on 01644 420 227 or 07789 903127 Dalry Domestic and Agricultural Fencing 01644 430 495 (Peter) or 07767 795 498 (Jonathan) Glenkens Gazette page 7 February and March are set to bring in 2014 in style at the CatStrand with a world-class selection of music, film and theatre. The MOO Man documentary by A Heathcote and H Bachelier tells the story of a dairy farmer and his attempt to save his family farm. Described as heartwarming, a tear-jerker of a movie about the incredible bonds between man, animal and countryside, it is definitely one to see. Thinking of something to do for Valentine’s Day? How about treating your otherhalf to an evening of fiesta romance! Enjoy a pre-event supper with a Mexican wist as Rapido Mariachi serenade you at your table. After that there is a full mariachi concert in the auditorium led by the stunning vocals of Venezuelan Carmen Moore. Tickets are available with or without the meal. Other very special musical offerings are from the Dave Donohoe Band on Friday 21 February, and the James Brothers on Saturday 22 February; these local acts are not to be missed. And the musical highlight of the spring season is sure to be the talents of duo Kris Drever (Lau) and Eamon Coyne (Salsa Celtica, Treacherous Orchestra). Don’t miss the CatStrand Youth Players as they present their SCDA Festival plays on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 March. This year they will present Sing When You’re Winning by Mark Rees and Bar & Ger by Drever & Coyne CatStrand Highlights Geraldine Aron. Fingers crossed for another prize this year! If you attended Rob Heron & the Tea Pad Orchestra last April you will remember what a foot-stomping show it was. This talented bunch return to the CatStrand on Saturday 15 March as part of their UK tour of their new album. Come along and enjoy - you won’t be disappointed. For full listings see our latest brochure or visit www.catstrand.com, and to book tickets call the Box Office on 01644 420 374. A Soggy Draw 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 draw must go on: Fire fighters came to the CatStrand’s rescue during flooding at their final event of 2013. Unfortunately the Feral Choir concert had to be abandoned as the CatStrand was bailed out, but they are due to make a return in 2014. The CatStrand Christmas hamper still had to be won so Fire Fighter Lee Cawthorne did the honours; well done to the winner, CatStrand volunteer Marie Davie! Glenkens Gazette Guides Receive Award Continued from front page... Kimberly’s favourite challenge had been taking up a new interest - horse riding - and pursuing it over a length of time. The two fourteen-yearolds also also had to attend the Baden Powell Adventure weekend in Edinburgh. Kimberley says she enjoyed making new friends among many other Guides from around Scotland and working in small groups to explore Edinburgh and complete challenges. Both girls undertook fundraising to help with the cost of their adventure, and involved their Patrols in some parts of their challenges. This included planning all aspects of a patrol outing to Edinburgh Zoo. Mrs Barbara Murray, the Girl Guide County Commissioner, page 8 their willingness to take on a challenge, their ability to plan their own activities, and their determination to be reliable and to do their best at all times. Although many of the challenges can be built into the Patrol programme, quite a lot has to be done outwith Guide time which requires more willpower and determination. The 1st Glenkens Guide Unit meets on Wednesdays in Glenkens Community Centre and would welcome new members. Guides are aged 10 to 14 years old. Contact Mrs Peace on 01644 430281 for more information, or go on-line to GGUK to register your interest and someone will then contact you. ...both girls gained their awards because of their willingness to take on a challenge, their ability to plan their own activities, and their determination to be reliable and to do their best at all times. congratulated the girls and presented them with their Baden-Powell Challenge badges at a ceremony in December. Their unit leaders say both girls gained their awards because of TIME FLIES FOR RETIREMENT PROJECT As the saying goes, time flies when you’re having fun as the Big Lottery funded Connecting in Retirement project has completes its first year. Numerous activities, events and regular groups have taken place or continue to thrive. The Ukulele groups - there are now two, beginners and improvers - are thriving and to date and a few of the group members have now performed in public at both the Christmas Shopping Day and the December Tea Dance. There are now two sessions of Tai Chi taking place weekly, Tuesday for improvers and Wednesday for a more gentle form and those folks who may suffer from a long term condition. Getting really good feedback on how this has been having a positive effect on peoples’ health and wellbeing. We are now looking to start a new yoga class so keep an eye open for news on that in the next few weeks. As mentioned a number of afternoon Tea Dances have taken place which have been wellattended and supported. We are looking to start a regular dance group where you can learn or improve your ballroom skills; watch this space. Also Adult Dance/Movement sessions take place every Monday afternoon. This is based on the Margaret Morris Movement theme. Another Lets Cook session took place, again well supported. There is another session booked, starting in March to take place in Dalry Community Centre. Some of the original group members were involved in the making of a film called Age is but a Number check the CatStrand website to view (www.catstrand.com). A Knit & Blether group meets every two weeks on a Friday afternoon and a potography course took place, run by local photographer Phil McMenemy, with an exhibition of pictures taken by participants planned for February/ March. We are looking to start a digital photography group with the aim of having regular trips out and guest speakers. Also planned for 2014 are a Shared Memories group who will discuss and write about memories of the past, Heartstart course training which teaches you what to do in a life threatening emergency, Beginners and Improvers Computing courses, an Art Workshop for bcginners run by local artist Pam Grace, and an Over 60’s Benefit Reform and Entitlements seminar. By popular demand a second Start to Write course run by local author Margaret Elphinstone is scheduled for early February. If you are interested in any of the above activities or events or have other ideas in mind Brian would love to hear from you - call into the CatStrand for a cuppa and a chat with him or get in touch on 420 374 or brian@catstrand.com Phil McMenemy photography group participants Glenkens Gazette page 9 Enterprising Pupils Raise Funds A BREATHE Three enterprising OF FRESH AIR young pupils from Kells Primary School have been raising money for the Philippines Typhoon Appeal. Bronnen Pears, Jasmin Adam and Rory Newbery worked together and without any adult support to raise the astonishing sum of £229.85. They placed collection jars in local shops and also recently completed a sponsored bike ride. The children would like to say a big thank you to everyone from the Glenkens who sponsored them. Christmas at Dalry On Friday 6 December Dalry School held their annual Coffee Morning. Stalls included, baking, bric-a-brac, tombola, holly bunches and lots of games. the Christmas show Tinsel and Tea- Towels. This was a story about the school being inspected the week of the School Nativity play and the teachers and children getting organised for the big event. The second half of the evening was filled with a variety of performances from the Secondary music classes. The whole school then returned to the stage for the Christmas finale, a medley of traditional Christmas songs. A total of £513.98 was raised and the school would like to say thank you to everyone that helped make the day a success. On Wednesday 10 December Dalry School held their concert. Performances included P6/7 singing the opening songs Christmas Samba and This is what Christmas mean to me. P15 then performed Primary Children performing Tinsel and Tea Towels 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 Dalry School has a new outdoor shelter/ classroom in the playing field which will be used both by pupils during break times and also during class times as a ‘breakout’ space and outdoor classroom. The structure has been designed, built and erected by Sandy Harvie, School Technician, and was made possible due to funds raised by Friends of Dalry School (FoDS)over the past few years at various events and activities. Pupils are already using this shelter at breaks and “loving it” and teaching staff are “very impressed with the design and workmanship and are really looking forward to using it”. The aims of Friends of Dalry school are to raise funds towards school funds to assist with new equipment and resources, school transport costs for trips and visits out with the school, and to provide fun activities for pupils. Their next fundraising event is a Table Top Sale in the Glenkens Community Centre on Sunday 26 January from 12noon to 3pm. For more information on FoDS get in touch on friends ofdalryschool@icloud.com or like their facebook page to stay informed of future events. Glenkens Gazette page 10 CATSTRAND YOUTH PLAYERS PANTOMIME Aladdin by John Morley, the third annual Youth Players pantomime played to three full houses at the CatStrand on 6th ,7th and 8th December. All of the audiences seemed to thoroughly enjoy the traditional story brought to life on stage by Aladdin, Widow Twankey, Wishee Washee, Abanazar and a host of other colourful characters. The principal characters were in safe hands with some of the ‘veteran’ youth players taking the main roles, Lowena Lindsay ably anchored the whole show in the title role of Aladdin and of course ended up living ‘happily ever after’ with the Princess, beautifully played by Maia Smyth. Abanazar, villainously portrayed by Eleanor Jones, thought that he should marry the Princess too of course but with the aid of the mischievous Genie of the Lamp (Freddie Grimwood), Aladdin won in the end. The comedy characters kept the laughter going throughout with accomplished performances from Zoe Kirkpatrick as Widow Twankey, Jordan Pears as Wishee Washee and Mathew Godridge and Eilidh Thomson as the Emperor and Empress of China. The supporting roles were played by Eilidh Stalker, Rory Newbery, Hannah Grieve, Emma Olley, Lucy Olley, Laura Edington, Georgiana Grimwood, Toby Wise, Florrie Newbery, Lauren McKinna and Anna Hodson. The pantomime was directed by Brian Edgar and Nancy Plummer with music & sound by Simon Davidson and set design by Lauren Glasgow, Jimmy McKenna and Keith Birkhead. Another hugely successful production with everyone already looking forward to the next panto which is scheduled for 5th, 6th and 7th December. However, the next productions for the Youth Players will be for the SCDA Drama Festival at the end of February. This year the entries are ‘Bar and Ger’ by Geraldine Aron, a challenging Kells School Musical Cafe Kells PTA held a Muscial Cafe afternoon recently which raised £517 towards school funds. The pupils performed a few songs to entertain the parents as they enjoyed a cup of tea and some home baking. The Parents and friends also had the the opportunity to participate in some competitions plus purchase some homebaking. The PTA would like to thank all those who attended the event. two-hander telling the story of a brother and sister as they grow up and ‘Sing When You Are Winning’ by Mark Rees, a humorous musical story of the trials and tribulations of a girls football team. The plays will be performed in the festival at The Fullarton in Castle Douglas on Wednesday 26th February and Saturday 1st March respectively. Then both plays will be staged again at the CatStrand on 6th and 7th March at 7.30pm. The Youth Players are hoping to follow on the success of last year when they won the Stewartry Festival and then narrowly missed out on a place at the Scottish Finals when they came a very close second at the Western Finals in Glasgow with their production of ‘LittleBro Morning and BigSis Afternoon’ by Mike Tibbetts. Glenkens Gazette page 11 Glenkens Gazette page 12 Glenkens Gazette page 13 Glenkens Gazette page 14 Glenkens Gazette page 15 latter of Laurieston in 2013 the whom often 2013 has been a great year for Laurieston. This year the village has been both celebrating and securing its past for future generations, as well as embracing its present with a variety of community events. The Memorial to one of Lauriestons most famous sons, Samuel Rutherford Crockett, has been tidied up and given a new face lift. SR Crockett (1859-1914) was a novelist and poet, and probably most well-known for his work, The Raiders, published in 1894, a novel still considered a ‘mustread’ for those living in or visiting Galloway. Crockett was a contemporary of both Robert Louis Stevenson and JM Barrie, stayed with him at his home when he served as minister for the Free Church of Scotland in Penicuik, near Edinburgh. The writer, whose works are full of both elements of Scottish history and of his native Galloway, was born at Little Duchrae, Balmaghie, Laurieston; the son of a Galloway farmer. On the weekend of 6 April, a series of Crockett-related events is planned - see p6 of this issue of the Gazette for details of this. A year of austerity hasn’t held back this little community with their village hall being a venue for many events. Events included; Laurieston is not the last in raising funds for those in need either with the 2013 annual Duck Race, being held on the river 8888 and marshalled by Des Hadnet; it raised both smiles and funds. One shouldn’t forget the annual • 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 **NEW** Yorkshire Building Society Agency – Now Open 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. Laurieston Flower show either which is gaining a reputation, and saw the amount of entries significantly up. Local businesses are seeing more and more visitors and holiday makers discovering the delights and scenery of Laurieston. Spring Fling and other exhibitions this year by artists and photographers such as Phil McMenemy have brought many to the area. Phil’s exhibition at The Gallery has seen visitors from as far as way as Edinburgh and the north of England making a point of pulling off the welltrodden routes and venturing further afield. The Earth’s Crust bakery originally set up in 2011 by Tom & Pavlina van Rooyen has seen another successful year. Tom has seen his baking courses and involvement in the Flavour Fortnight take off with a lot of courses fully subscribed. 2013 has been another great and positive year for this little Glenkens’ community. Laurieston hopes that more of both, their Aileen McLeod MSP working for you across the South of Scotland Postal address: Unit 7 Loreburn Shopping Centre High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2BD Email: aileen.mcleod.msp@scottish.parliament.uk Tel: 01387 255 334 Please check www.aileenmcleod.org for regular surgery, constituency and parliamentary updates n Glenkens Gazette HAPPY NEW BUS The Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) has another busy year to look forward to with a probable extension of the Rural Transport Solutions Project and the Stewartry Sports Council recommending GTI to their members as an alternative transport provider. In addition the new smaller minibus now available for use and gives another option for transport to people in the Glenkens. It has already been used for two GTI trips when there was not enough demand for the larger vehicle – once to Glasgow before Xmas and then to Ayr on Thursday 2 January and it is anticipated it will be a great asset to the community. The amount charged for fuel for the minibuses has been amended to take into account the different sizes with the smaller vehicle (eight seats) being charged at 40p per mile and the larger vehicle (16 seats) at 50p per mile. We have received a number of suggestions for trips during the coming year including the Falkirk Wheel, Loch Lomond and Deny Museum, Dumbarton, Dumfries House, Strathclyde Park for the Commonwealth Games Triathlon, Antique and Collectors Fairs in Ayr and a Farmers’ Market in Dumfries – the more suggestions we get the better. Two trips that are already arranged are to Dobbies Garden Centre in Ayr on Saturday 22 March and to Wigtown during the Easter school holidays on Wednesday 9 April for a brief talk by the Countryside Ranger and a visit to the nearby Nature Reserve. Tickets for trips will once again page 16 be available approx. Four weeks prior to each trip and must be paid for when booking – unfortunately no refunds will be made unless the trip is cancelled by GTI. Eye-catching posters are being printed giving details of trips and new leaflets for distribution at local shows designed, but the best publicity is word of mouth – please remember to tell new neighbours or your visitors to the area about GTI and what we offer, as more passengers are always welcome. Keith Cooper GTI Administrator Glenkens Gazette page 17 NEW GROWTH FOR NATURAL POWER A team of 30 staff from international renewable energy consultancy Natural Power’s Dalry and Stirling offices hung up their razors in November to raise awareness of men’s health, raising £1,800 for charity in the process. Movember is an annual campaign which encourages men (dubbed Mo Bros) to grow moustaches and encourage their surrounding communities to support them. The campaign aims to fund men’s health programmes; the Movember campaign’s long-term vision is to have a lasting impact on awareness of prostrate cancer, mental health and other men’s health issues. Natural Power’s team of Mo Bros, supported by many of their Mo Sista colleagues, started the month of November fresh-faced and all ended the month with some very interesting upper lip topiary. Ted Leeming, Managing Director of Natural Power, commented: “I am delighted that so many of Natural Power’s staff took on the Movember challenge. Not only have the team raised an incredible sum for a fantastic cause, they also showed great team work – something I am very proud of within our company. A special thank you goes to Natural Power’s IT Assistant, James Wilson, who organised the team and provided vital weekly encouragement to all involved.” The company offer consultancy, management and due diligence services across the onshore wind, offshore wind, wave, tidal, biomass, pv and hydro sectors. Established in the mid 1990s Natural Power has been at the heart of many groundbreaking projects and products for more than two decades, and has expanded internationally to employ over 270 renewable energy experts across Europe and North America. Natural Power would like to thank all of those who supported the team in their efforts to raise such a great amount of money for Movember. Natural Power is a leading independent renewable energy consultancy and products provider with its headquarters, The Green House, situated at Dalry’s Forrest Estate. THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL New Galloway Open 7 Days Beautiful Riverside Location MEALS SERVED 12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm Christmas menus now available for intimate dinners, groups or party nights. Bed & breakfast en suite accommodation 01644 420 211 mail@kenbridgehotel.co.uk www.kenbridgehotel.co.uk Bargatton Sand & Gravel Supplying sand and gravel for all your farming needs, as well as households and businesses both large and small. We stock washed fine sand, coarse sand and gravels at competitive prices. Wishing all our customers a happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. For further details contact: Angus Wilson, Quarry Manager - 07715 606 685 James Mair - 07793 085 243 Email: loch.bargatton@live.co.uk Bargatton Quarry, Laurieston, Castle Douglas, DG7 2PS Open 7 days Mon-Fri Weekends by arrangement Delivery can be arranged - subject to quantity Glenkens Gazette page 18 What’s Happened in Dalry in 2013 2013 saw more and more visitors homing in on this attractive and energetic community. Saturday of each month, has grown attracting vendors from both Castle Douglas and Dalbeattie as well as Glenken producers. They now have a well-known butcher, baker, and grocer at the market, and the range of products available also include smoked fish and cheeses, fresh vegetables, jams, jellies, chutneys, and a variety of arts and crafts. Jean Lockerbie of the Dalry Town Hall Committee and toddlers, whilst the second provides an activity room with sand pit, water-play, mini-library, arts & crafts, wendy house and much more. The third room is a large hall given over to physical Enterprises set up to showcase activities with bicycles and a the best of Dalry’s assets have climbing frame. For older children succeeded in engaging those of two to for years, August 2013 within the community and saw the start of the of the GCC drawing in guests from further Playgroup. At this age family afield. members and carers do not have The Watson Bird Festival held to stay with the children, and the four ticketed events last year facility is run by Lucy and using a variety of venues Such enterprises not only Gemma. Helen Keron, in Dalry as well as New chair, said: “It was succeed as an attraction, but GCC Galloway’s CatSrand. The a great year for both programme of events was wellChildrens’ Club and they also bring revenue in to the received with high numbers the Playgroup. The Club attending each event. The has gone from strength the community. ultimate triumph for the to strength and it has project was the purchase of been great to see the said: “The Farmers’ Market has Donald Watson’s former home. Playgroup take off, with both proved very popular and has Roger Crofts, Director of the the children and their families a following of people that buy project, said: “I am delighted enjoying the facilities provided.” enthusiastically. It has also with the progress being made The now bi-annual Clachan Fair managed to draw in a range at achieving our ambitions for always proves a big draw, with a of visitors to the village.” Such Watson Birds.” range of activities for young and enterprises not only succeed as Another successful local old. an attraction, but they also bring enterprise serving the community revenue in to the community. Two local businesses saw big is the Dalry Farmers’ Market. changes this year: The village The younger children of the The market, held on the 2nd shop, previously Newton’s, is Glenkens have under new ownership and is now had something Wright’s Shop; Lindsay Forbes, to shout nee Wright, is originally from about too. Dalry and has taken on the shop The Glenkens as a family business. The Clachan Children Club Inn is under new management; (GCC), aimed Laura Burnie, originally from at children Parton, and her partner Phil from birth to three-years-old, Papworth took on the pub at the FOR end of October. celebrated its GALLOWAY & first anniversary Watch this space for 2014. If you have anything you WEST DUMFRIES in July 2013. would like to add about The unique something that has happened that Holds regular advice surgeries at: facilities are offered have over 2013 in Dalry, or any of the Glenkens communities, proved very Constituency Office, New Market please get in touch. popular and are bringing in Street, Castle Douglas, DG7 1HY children from GLENKENS on the 2nd Friday of every month from 5pm all round the Glenkens, and MEDICAL PRACTICE as far afield as General Medical & Telephone free on 0800 028 7260 Castle Douglas. Dispensing Services The Club is held for an appointment or to make in the Glenkens The Surgery any alternative arrangement. Community High Street Centre in Dalry New Galloway You can visit Alex’s website at: and focuses around three www.alexfergusson.org.uk FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL rooms. The first room provides or contact him by e-mail at: � 01644 420234 � carpeted play alex.fergusson.msp@scottish.parliament.uk aarea for babies ALEX FERGUSSON MSP Glenkens Gazette page 19 The new series of the BBC Alba’s programme, Farpaisean ChonChaorach, featuring the Carsphairn Dog Trials, was aired on Monday 7 January. Farpaisean Chon-Chaorach is a successful series that showcases Sheep Dog Trials and competitions. The programme begins each series by filming 2 or 3 Open Sheep Dog Trials across Scotland, and follows some of the competitors up through the ranks to the National Sheep Dog Trials, where 150 dogs compete for the title of Scottish Champion. It is out of these competitors that 15 dogs are chosen to represent Scotland in the International Sheep Dog Trials held annually between England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. The programme featured wellknown competitors in the Dog Trial world and was won by Peter Hetherington and his dog, Pete. Many of the competitors had connections with Carsphairn including the competition judge, David Armstrong, who worked as a shepherd at Lamford and Brown Hill. The episode included footage of the Carsphairn show, the Heritage Centre and the village. It included interviews with Farpaisean Chon-Chaorach presenters Secretary of the Carsphairn Show, Jean Gibbon, and Chair of the Heritage Centre, Anna Campbell. Many well-known faces from Carsphairn and the Glenkens can be seen. The Wallace family of Fingland were singled out for a special feature by the programme, focusing on their families’ famous dog, Loos, who damed 4 Supreme International champions. The filming of the Carsphairn Sheep Dog Trials was brought to the attention of BBC ALBA by the International Sheep Dog Trials Society. Life-long member of the Society and local Carsphairn shepherd, David McMillan, met with the programme makers to show them the venue. Davy said, “It was a very misty day when they drove down to view the location and learn about the show and the village. I told them about the history of Carsphairn, and the show, and explained that it was one of the oldest agricultural shows in Scotland. Just as the meeting was about to end the mist lifted, and the hills came into view. I think that it was the stunning scenery that sold it to them in the end”. Carsphairn school teacher, Walker McKenna, told the Gazette: “It was great to show off our little community and have it show-cased to a wider audience.” 2014 is a very special year as Scotland hosts the World Sheep Dog Trials in Tain, Ross’shire, and 2015 will see the International Sheep Dog Trials brought to Dumfries & Galloway, and held at Miekleholm Farm, Parkgate. Sara McNeill cause difficulties for people. Thanks are due to Community Councillor Jim Reid for his hard work on this project. Dalry Community Council Update Dalry Community Council has been working with Dumfries & Galloway Council to develop its Winter Resilience Plan, so it can help Dalry residents to be better prepared for whatever the winter weather throws at us. Last year’s March snow and recent high winds, heavy rain and flooding this year highlight how quickly changing weather patterns can Thanks to a donation from the Glenkens Community Shop, Dalry Community Council is now in a position to make its first purchases of equipment for handing out in an emergency to Dalry residents. This includes hot water bottles, battery-powered lanterns and hot drink/soup thermos flasks. The Community Council plans to expand its emergency stock pile as additional funding is obtained. In addition, snow clearing equipment has been requested from Dumfries and Galloway Council to help improve our ability to deal with heavy snow fall. The Community Council would appreciate hearing from any Dalry residents who are experiencing weather related problems, so we can gather information about flooding hot spots, blocked drains, sewers etc. so it can be passed onto Dumfries and Galloway Council for attention. In the first instance e-mail Jim Reid at: jamescreid666@gmail.com, or letters to 52 Main Street, Dalry, DG7 3UW. Andi Holmes, Chair, Dalry Community Council Glenkens Gazette page 20 NEW GALLOWAY GOLF CLUB 2014 is off to a good start for New Galloway Golf Club depite the wet weather. The Annual General Meeting of the Golf Club took place in December when the following officials were elected for the 2014 season: Captain - Jeff Sutcliffe, Vice Captain - Ian Brown, Treasurer - Iain McQueen, Secretary - Ian Brown, Match Secretary - Jeff Sutcliffe, Webmaster - Wave Tyrrell, Committee - Dick Tulloch, Terry Haine, Elena Rogers, Tony Graham, Dave Nielsen, Neville White, David Aitken, Ladies Representative - Gerry MacKechnie. The Club for a number of years now has suffered from the lack of visitor numbers which have declined over the past four or five years. The decrease has meant that the Club has not met its budget. The Committee therefore has made the decision to increase subscriptions in order for the Club to continue for the foreseeable future. More members, particularly young members and ladies, are also needed as the current membership are getting older. The Club offers the chance of playing on a superb nine-hole course with fantastic views of the Glenkens and Loch Ken. Whether you just want to come and play socially or like the competitive aspect, the Club is for you. You don’t have to play 18 holes as the course offers the chance of 9, 15 or 18 holes so it can be fitted around the time you have to spare. Please contact the secretary for more information or membership. The first competition of 2014 was played on New Years Day - the Ne’er Day Trophy. This competition had not been played for many years due to the weather; however this year, although very wet, the competition was played and the winner was Dave Nielsen. Sunday 30 March sees the start of the season with the annual Captain v Vice Captain competition followed by refreshments in the Clubhouse. Jeff Sutcliffe, Captain & Match Secretary New Galloway Golf Club THE SCHULE AT BALMACLELLAN This poem was contributed by Bill Blyth. It was written in a local Galloway dialect which is fast dying out. Written around 18501860 by someone who immigrated to America. The Schule at Balmaclellan Twa score o’ years hae past awa Syn a at first a hae mine When tae the schule as boys we gaed Nae days like thae syn syne. For whiles our hans were blue wi cauld Our heids were fu o spellin As up the braes and roon the turns We gaed to Balmaclellan. O’er Greenhead heicht doon bye Troquain And on bae Scroggieha Frae every cot and fermtoon Cam bairnies big and sma. Barmorrow, Bogleknowe, Toonhead and oot frae every dwellin Wae slates & books & glossy looks A gan tae Balmaclellan. And doon bye Babby Bairdo, they cam Frae Ewanston & Barlay Lochside & Corse & Barnwaas As far as Cassenvey Frae Killochy & Mavisgrove, their Numbers ever swelling, Up by the Towe, Gateside, Knocklae, and into Balmaclellan. Fae far off moorland Corriedoo Drumanister, Knockman Wae whangs o cheese & soda scones Tin flasks & billy cans Thae sonsie lads and lassies braw The cauld bleek winds dispelling A tae the “swat of learning” cam At Bonnie Balmaclellan. The schule hummed like a hive o’ bees We grammar, coonts, dictation But this we never heard oorsels We made sae mush moration The maister wad put in his gaf The taws did some compelling For some had little in their pows That gaed tae Balmaclellan. And when at history and dates They’d glower & fidge & claw Their bubbly nose wipe on their cuff They couldna dae it ava A whustle frae the maister’s luif His glare disaster spellin And yet the best of scholars cam Frae the schule at Balmaclellan. Some had buits & other clogs And wheen were barefoot too ome were snod & weel put on Wi open manly broo. Noo far & wide o ’er sea & tide They’re found a hame tae dwell Tho lost to sight, tae memory dear, Ever is Balmaclellan. Roon “Faimey’s panshon” escapade Wae Billy, Dod and Tot And Toper, Piefer, Vulcan Queen But Dickie crooned the lot The Aqua Vitae still runs doon The primrose sweetly smellin But gone is mony a weel kent face Far, far frae Balmaclellan. attributed to ‘Whinnie’ Aqua Vitae = name of the burn which runs through Balmaclellan; Vulcan = Blacksmith. McQueen was the blacksmith at this time. If anyone knows where Babby Bairdo is, please get in touch and let us know. Footnote by Bill Blyth, Blowplain: “I walked to school in Balmaclellan with other children in 1940. With my gas mask slung over my shoulder and carrying a piece bag as there were no school dinners in those days. Walking to school taught us self-reliance and resilience. A school car was put on later in the year driven by Mrs Watret of Midpark who drove very conscientiously for many years. Glenkens Gazette page 21 LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN The Glenkens Rebellion: Aftermath the battle. Many of those who escaped execution were hounded for the rest of their lives. Estimates of the numbers killed at the battle of Rullion Green differ widely. It was claimed that only four or five died on the government side while fifty of the rebels perished. Some suggested that 100 covenanters were slaughtered on the field, including some forty of ‘the westland men’, while 300 were dispatched as they fled by the peasantry of Lothian. Upwards of 130 were captured and imprisoned in Edinburgh. The victorious General Tam Dalyell preached a gospel of extermination; all rebel supporters were to be removed or destroyed. Scotland’s Royal Commissioner, the Duke of Rothes, opined that those ‘damd incorrigeable phanaticks’ whom he characterized as ‘nyaffs’, must be suppressed and he set off on a progress to pacify ‘those parts where the frenzy first took its rise’, namely the Glenkens and Galloway. An example was to be made of two rebellious participants: Hew McKail a 26-year-old minister from Edinburgh who suffered from tuberculosis and who pulled out of the march before the battle to be subsequently arrested by Dalyell, and Neilson of Corsock who had promised protection to the captive Turner, who, in turn, attempted unsuccessfully to intercede on his behalf. Both were brutally tortured, their legs shattered by the vicious ‘boot’, an iron contraption into which the leg was inserted, followed by the hammering in of as many wedges as were required to produce a result. Both went bravely to their deaths. Alexander sixteen people in Dalry, among them, unusually, two women, Margaret Tod and Bessie Gordon. The wanted list included Robert Gaa, smith in Clachan, and one each of McCall, Chapman, McMichael, Douglas, McAdam, Girvan, McCutcheon and McNaught. Listing such things may appear boring but many of the personal and place-names of those sought have survived, a circumstance which, I would argue, brings those folk of the past, and the terrible fears they must have faced, much closer to us. Thus wanted in Dalry were: (original spelling retained) Crichtoun in Knoksting and in Fingland, Ferguson in Trostan, McCall in Craigincore, Roan in Stroanpatrick, Neilson in Clachan, and Gordon and MacMillan there, MacMillan in Ardindarroch, McQuhannel in Kirkland of Dalry, Miller in Auchinshinoch and Cannon in Blackmark. In Kells were Bennoch in Strangfastnet, McLeive in Barskelloch, McCall in Airy, McAdam in Newtoun and for others there. Balmaclellan parish: Milliken in Fell, Gordon in Crogo, Dempster in Hill, Kersan in Killochy, Raine in Cubboks. In Carsphairn, Cannon in Formartoun, McMitchell in Knokinrioch, McMillans in Stronggashell, Kiltarsan and Bredinoch, McIlnay in Polundow, Logan in Locheid, Crauford in Drumjoan, Cunningham in Longfoord, McAdam in Waterheid and Hannay there, McAdam in Bow, McMillan younger in Brokloch, Ferguson in Woodhead, Cubbison in Mosse, McAdam in Knokgray, MacMillan in Bank, Smith at Bridge of Deuch, Wylie in Smeiton, Malcolm in Netherholm and McColm in Netherglen. What happened to them all we cannot know but the names of these folk who, for refusing to attend church and resisting subsequent fines, were treated like terrorists, should be cherished in the annals of Glenkens and of Scotland. Many of those who escaped execution were hounded for the rest of their lives. It is always difficult to ascertain exactly what happened in history but this period is particularly difficult because covenanting apologists, understandably, took a completely biased and one-sided view of their heroes while supporters of the Crown exaggerated enemy atrocities and motivations. We cannot always be sure that the ‘martyrdoms’ depicted by Robert Wodrow in his History of the Sufferings actually happened because we often lack corroborative evidence. He argued that the covenanters were not guilty of treason because they acted in self-defence, which is rather a stretch, while government officials were none too picky about their victims, often accusing people who were nowhere near Dalry or Rullion Green. What cannot be doubted was the vindictive punishment inflicted on these ‘poor naked country lads who had never seen war’ and their families, following Robertson, minister of Urr, was also executed. Remarkably Maclellan of Barscobe eluded capture until 1682 when Claverhouse allegedly planned to have him hung drawn and quartered, a fate he averted by rejecting the covenant. A year later he was murdered as a traitor to the cause by fellow-covenanter Robert Grierson of Mylnemark. Among those sentenced to death at Ayr on Christmas Eve 1666 were John Graham, James Smith and John Short of Old Clachan of Dalry, and, from Carphairn, Alexander MacCulloch and John McCoull. In 1667 the quartering of troops led to further atrocities at the properties of Gordon of Holm of Dalry and Gordon of Earlston. Specifically named in commissions were the Cannons of Barnchalloch and Barley, Gordon of Garrery in Kells, Henry Grier in Balmaclellan, Gordon younger of Holm and Dempster of Corriedoo. Even after the Duke of Lauderdale introduced an indemnity the persecution continued. In 1668 the authorities still sought Ted Cowan Glenkens Gazette page 22 DECEMBER & JANUARY FEBRUARY Fri 7, Film: The MOO Man, 7.30pm, CatStrand Wed 12, 7.30pm Fri 14, Valentines Day with Rapido Mariachi, 7pm, CatStrand Mon 17, 1st Dalry Neighbourhood Watch meeting, see p6 Fri 21, The Dave Donohoe Band, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 22, The James Brothers, 7.30pm, CatStrand MARCH Sat 1, Kris Drever & Eamon Coyne, 7.30pm, CatStrand Thu 6 & Fri 7, Youth Players: Festival Plays 2014, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 15, Rob Herron and the Tea Pad Orchestra, Tom Craig, previously manager at 7.30pm, ATS Euromaster, Castle Douglas, CatStrand started his mobile service when ATS Sat 22, GTI closed in 2012. Bus Trip to Dobbies TC Tyres offers tyre Garden fitting, balancing T C TYRES Mobile Tyre Fitting Specialist & Supplier & repairs (car,van, motor cycle, trailer & agricultural vehicles). Tom Craig 07557 511 436 VAT Registered 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 APRIL Sat 5, SR Crockett event, CatStrand & Ken Bridge Hotel, see p6 Sun 6, Tour of SR Crockett sites, see p6 Wed 9, GTI Bus Trip to Wigtown, see p16 Friends of Dalry School Race Night Tyres supplied or own tyres fitted, work done at your work or home, batteries also supplied and fitted. THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE Centre in Ayr, see p16 on Saturday 22 March Thurs 27, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, 7.30pm, CatStrand Sat 29, The Secret Life of Suitcases by Lewis Hetherington and Ailie Cohen, 3pm, CatStrand Sun 30, Golf Club Annual Captain v Vice Captain Competition, see p20 Saturday 8th March Dalry Town Hall doors open 7pm, 1st Race 7.30pm Adults only. Bar, hot snacks & raffle. All welcome £2.50 admission. Tickets available in advance: email friendsofdalryschool@ icloud.com or call 07500 554751 All proceeds towards new video and IT equipment for Dalry School. GTI WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE (registered route) Outward Journey: 19:00 Dept. Dalry (Underhill) 19:05 New Galloway 19:15 Mossdale 19:25 Laurieston 19:30 Townhead of Greenlaw 19:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) Return journey: 20:35 Dept. Castle Douglas (Tesco) 20:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 20:47 Townhead of Greenlaw 21:50 Laurieston 21:00 Mossdale 21:10 New Galloway 21:15 Dalry To book a Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) bus or for more information please contact keith cooper, GTI Administrator, on 01644 420 374. Glenkens Gazette page 23 REGULAR EVENTS CatStrand (New Galloway): Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am Ukelele Group, Mon, 11.15am, 60+ Ukelele Improvers, Mon, 1pm, 60+ Free Computer Training; Beginners & Improvers, Mon (starting 4 Nov), 1.30pm Margaret Morris Movement Adult Dance Class, Mon, 2.30-3.30pm, contact Sara on 01556 612854 Children’s Dance Class: Mon during term time, 3.45-4.45pm age 3-7, 4.30-5.30pm ages 8-15 Let’s Cook, Tues, 10am Carers’ Coffee & Chat: Tues, 10am-12noon Let’s Cook, Tues, 10am Teen Spirit: Tues during term time, 7-8:30pm (P7-S3) and 8-9:30pm (S3+) Gentle Tai Chi, Wed, 10am, 60+ Sing it Out: Thurs, 11.30am 12.30pm Pilates: Thurs, 4.15-5.15pm & 5.30-6.30pm Knit & Blether Club, last Fri each month, 2pm, 60+ Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri each month, 2pm Saturday Art Club: 2nd Sat each month, 10am–12noon Zumbatomic, last Sat each month,10-10.45am Catstrand Youth Players: Sun during term time, 2pm Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, last Sun of the month, 2-4pm Glenkens Community Centre (Dalry): (contact Kath 430 281) Glenkens Children’s Club: Mon & Fri, 9.15-11.45am Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm & Wed, 7-9pm Ballroom & Latin Dance Class: Mon, 7.15, for more info call Sam Rushton on 420 672 GCC Playgroup, Tue & Thurs, 9.2011.50am, contact keronh@me.com Good Neighbours’ Club: Tues, 2pm Kickback Martial Arts: Thurs, 7-9pm Thursday Craft Group: Thurs, 24pm Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm Guides: Tue during term-time, 6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281 Various Locations: Texas Hold ‘em Poker, Mon, 7.15pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.4511.15am, New Galloway Town Hall Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New Galloway Scout Hut Dog Training: Tue & Wed, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. Contact: Eric 460 670 Tai Jitsu: Wed, Junior Class (age 6- Glenkens Community Councils Balmaclellan Community Council Meetings: 3rd Monday each month, 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall. Carsphairn Community Council Meetings: Last Monday each month, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn. Dalry Community Council Meetings: 1st Monday each month, 7pm, Dalry Town Hall. New Galloway & Kells Community Council Meetings: 2nd Monday each month, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall. Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library. CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon: 1st., 5th (Mar), Carsphairn: 10.30am: 1st,2nd,3rd,4th. Dalry: 12noon: 1st,3rd, 4th. Dalry 10.30am 2nd (Mar), Kells: 10.30am: 2nd (Feb),3rd,4th Church, 14 Mar, 5.30pm, Church Ceilidh, Dalry Town Hall, 30 Mar, 10.30am, United Service with Choir, Balmaclellan Church Communion Services: 23 Feb, 10.30am, Kells Church, 16 Mar, 10.15am, Carsphairn Church, 16 Mar, 12noon, Dalry Special Services/Events: 9 Feb, Church 10.30am, United Family Service for Dalry, Balmaclellan & Kells Churches in Kells Church. SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: 28 Feb, 7pm, Beetle Drive, Dalry Town Hall, 4 St Margaret’s, New Galloway: Holy March, 12noon, Guild Soup & Sweet Lunch, Communion, 10.30am every Sun & Wed New Galloway Town Hall, 7 Mar, 7pm, World CATHOLIC CHURCH Day of Prayer Service, Dalry Church, 9 Mar, SERVICES: Gatehouse of Fleet: 10.30am, United Family Service for Dalry, Sat, 6pm. Kirkcudbright: Sun, 9.30am. Balmaclellan & Kells Churches in Dalry Dalbeattie: Sun, 11am 14), 6-7pm; Senior Class, 7-8.30pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn, contact David on 07547 134 276, see p5 Wednesday Quiz Night, Wed, 8.30pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Stewartry Camera Club: Wed, 7.30pm, Ringford Village Hall, runs Wed 11 Sept till end Mar 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 Carsphairn Post Office, Thurs, 9.30-11.30am, Lagwyne Hall Coffee & Craft Morning, Thurs, 9.30-12noon, Lagwyne Hall Hard of Hearing Group Drop-in, 2nd Thurs each month, 10am-12noon, Castle Douglas Town Hall Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm, New Galloway Scout Hut To hire the MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) behind Dalry School call Sonja Tranter on 430 244 or Nicolette Wise on 430 218. Dalry Library Tue: 2-4.30pm & 5.30-7.30pm Fri: 11.15am-1:15pm & 2-4.30pm. There are 23 mobile library stops - to find out where and when please phone 430 234. ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE (price per issue incl VAT) SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% off with series discount) 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 (+ 25% off with series discount) 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) Call 07727 127 997 VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 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 Glenkens Gazette page 24 End of an Era Balmaclellan Smithy closed at the end of 2013 after over a hundred years of family service to local farmers and the community as a whole. Thomas Corrie took over as blacksmith at the beginning of the twentieth century, and his grandson, also Thomas, has carried the business through to the present day. In this time, the role of teh smith and the smithy has had to adapt to changing demands. To move on from the traditional forge work and teh shoeing of horses, the smithy operations were transferred to a new site a short distance down the road, using the former village inn premises. This provided more space and allowed the introduction of new equipment for the maintenance of farm machinery and a wider range of engineering work. An office and petrol station were built across the road. Now the relentless evolution of management of farming operations and associated equipment has eroded teh business to the extent that it can no longer continue, and Tom Corrie has reluctantly decided to lay down his tools, bringing to an end three generations of family achievement. The contribution of the smithy to the life o fthe village and the locality will be greatly missed. Photos: Top - Thomas Corrie (left) and Louis Smith, Tom’s assistant in recent years, at the doorway of the Smithy prior to final closure. Bottom - Tom’s father, Joe Corrie, whom many will remember, at the entrance to the old smithy. On the wall is a poster advertising the Glenkens Mounted Sports of 1947. Advert for Glenkens Gazette Want to work with children? Become a registered Childminder Wood Fuel Home Delivery every Monday Modern, High Performance Wood Briquettes delivered to your door Work from your own home Be your own boss Provide a service for local families Take the first step to becoming a childminder with SCMA. Hotter than Logs, cheaper than Coal Order online: www.woodfuel.coop or Phone: 01387 731 210 We offer free SCMA Induction Training and on-going friendly support. We’re here for you, so get in touch. Ann Hadland ann.hadland@childminding.org 01581 300659 www.childminding.org 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: MON 6 JAN 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 80 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GG_080 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 2014 Description An account of the resource Editor: Sarah Ade