Community Newsletter Autumn 2019

Working for

The 2019 Lochmaben in Bloom competition.

Looking out over the Mill Loch

The excellent garden which was named this year’s overall winner Congratulations again to Mr & Mrs Ian Rankine (Full details and more pics at p15)

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The Initiative is very grateful for the continuing support of the Lochmaben Community Council.

Contact us on the Website at www.lochmaben.org.uk, by phone to 01387 810484, or in writing. Correspondence should be clearly marked for the Initiative and left at the Town Hall. 1

News in Brief

Austerity continues to affect our local services and none more so than those provided in our handsome Town Hall. Over the past while, hours of opening have been progressively reduced to two periods a week including access to the library. It seems entirely possible that the hall could be permanently closed due to funding cuts. Members of the Community Council have recently discussed the possibility of taking over the management of the hall by the community in the way some shops are kept open using volunteers. An interesting use might be as a heritage centre incorporating tourist information, as well as a venue for small group meetings etc. The building is too fine and prominent in the town to let it be closed and allowed to deteriorate. Interested residents are invited to approach any member of the Community Council or Lochmaben Initiative in the first instance to discuss any ideas or offers of help in promoting this worthwhile project.

Lochmaben schoolgirl, Drew Ross, won through to the prestigious Horse of the Year Show after her success in the Restricted Rider Championships, taking 2nd place and 7th place in the Newcomers’ Master class, held in Birmingham in October. We wish her and her pony, Kengarth Sally Anne, the best of luck.

Lorraine and Gary at The Crown Hotel are to be congratulated on recently picking up a gold award in in a competition run by the Best Bar None initiative. Nothing promotes the good will of a town more than great food, a good pint and a warm friendly welcome at a pub. The customer gets that at The Crown.

The Community Council organised a fashion show in the Church Hall recently with proceeds going to the Castle Loch Lochmaben Community Trust. This very enjoyable event raised a superb sum in excess of £1000 which will surely be put to good use round the Castle Loch to improve this fantastic community facility.

The public toilets in Castle Street are likely to be closed for good if D&G Council get their way in cost cutting. Local businesses are being asked to open their facilities to the public instead for an annual payment.

Lochmaben Children’s Gala group is celebrating its 75th anniversary next year. The hard working committee want to make it special and are appealing to all members of the community to come forward with ideas and volunteering help to make the occasion really memorable for the youngsters in the town. Parents and families with young children are especially encouraged to get involved in some way. It is particularly this group who will benefit from the arrangements planned and made now.

The manager and players from Queen of the South football team recently attended an event at the town’s community centre to meet with children and staff from JayBees nursery. Money raised at the occasion and also at the nursery’s coffee morning was used to support the charity Tuberous Sclerosis Association (TSA) and will help one of their little attendees to progress into pre-school. It was also an opportunity to tour the centre which was recently acquired by QOS.

The recent new intake of 44 Primary 1 pupils at Lochmaben School revealed a very interesting collection of names and variety of spellings. What a healthy and pleasing fact that our local school attracts so many bright and happy new faces. Who knows what leaders and blazers might be amongst them in the years to come? It’s great to have such a wonderful school and community as Lochmaben where these children can grow and be educated in these, their most formative years. Good luck to them all.

Throughout the Newsletter there are a few more Scots expressions to have a look at. Find the tartan. Plus there’s a few single words you might know.

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Barony Country Foods run by father and son – Ronnie and Alasdair Graham – is expanding its interests, having recently taken over smoked products company, Lochengower, which was based in Edinburgh. That office is now closed and the family have opened an office and production area in Lochmaben from where orders are packed and despatched. Extra seasonal local staff have gained employment in the run- up to Christmas. They hope to grow the Lochengower brand and supply orders via on-line contacts.

Lochmaben swimmer, 16 year old Ava Simpson, is by now representing West at the International Sports Centre in Sheffield. Good luck Ava.

SSRS is looking for help from local walkers, joggers and those folks going about the woodland areas surrounding Lochmaben. This group, otherwise known as Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels, aims to protect this most beautiful and endearing of our native species. Scotland is home to 75% of Britain’s red squirrel population and our area is particularly important. They are, however, being threatened by the invasion of the non-native grey squirrel which passes on squirrel pox to the reds whilst being immune themselves. SSRS is asking folks to report sightings of both reds and greys in this area to be able to assess numbers and trap the greys for disposal by humane methods. They can be contacted at www.scottishsquirrels.org.uk

The local branch of Save the Children celebrated its 60th birthday earlier this month with special events held in the school and community centre. 60 years ago, the then new head teacher, William Turnbull, started the “Penny Box” which collected small amounts of children’s pocket money to donate to the worthy cause. The first year raised £59. The most recent year collected £774 and altogether more than £40,000 has been donated. The school and children certainly deserved their special recognition organised by the present STC committee.

Lochmaben Parish Church celebrates its 200th anniversary next July. In recognition of this major milestone, considerable work is being or has been carried out in the building the first of which was the removal of all the pews and replacement by comfortable chairs. In the near future a new heating distribution system will be installed. Early next year the whole inside will be redecorated. One of the more tangible commemorations is a planned booklet containing photographs and short anecdotes about church life over the past 200 years with emphasis on people and families with connections to Lochmaben. Many of the longer established families must have memories of Sunday school, Christmas parties, outings and other events more loosely connected with church life. We would like to hear from you. A local churchgoer has done extensive research into the box pews and seating arrangements of the original layout in 1820. It’s a fascinating insight into how this was arranged and reflects on an earlier and much more regimented era in church life. Anyone with a photo for copying or an article for inclusion is asked to contact Alistair Brown on 01387 811842 in the first instance.

The local branch of Brownies would very much welcome girls aged 7 – 10 to join them in the church hall every Wednesday during school term from 6.30 to 7.30 pm. Their leader Caitriana Wilde says there is always room for more girls to participate in their meetings and a fun time is promised. She can be reached on 07990588348 for further information.

Lochmaben Little People group meets every Monday morning from 1030 till noon in the church hall. It’s a very informal and friendly gathering of mostly Mums (sometimes Grans) and toddlers up to nursery age. Anyone new to the town and with small children would benefit greatly from the other regular attendees in making new friends.

Lochmaben Library is open for only 8 hours per week at present. Opening Hours are as follows:- Wednesdays----9.00am to 1.00pm Thursdays ----1.00pm to 5.00pm

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Community Groups Singing for Fun (S4F) Sheila Wade writes……… S4F is a ‘Very Happy ‘place to be on a Monday evening at 7.30pm in Lochmaben Church Hall. We are a group of 30 members and would like to welcome anyone who enjoys singing with a ‘very happy’ group of singers. Male and Female. You do not need to read music or have an audition to join S4F. Please come along and try it. The first night is free, thereafter £2.00 per evening which includes a cup of tea/coffee and some small bite treats. We are led and accompanied by two professional musicians, Jenny Agnew and Lyn Kirton. They share the piano playing and conducting each evening. We are so grateful and fortunate to have Jenny and Lyn, for all their time and enthusiasm in music. Further Info needed? Ring Sheila Wade: - 01387 810791 Or Jenny Agnew: - 01387 811632 Our dates are as follows:-

October 28th Notes

November 4th 11th 18th 25th

December 2nd 9th 16th* 16th * is an Open Evening at Lochmaben Church Hall at 7.30pm. Free of Charge. Everyone Welcome. Soft Drinks and Bites during the Interval.

No S4F on Dec 23 and 30. For Christmas.

January 2020 !3th S4F resumes

Lochmaben Scottish Women’s Institute (SWI) Motto: "For Facts, Fun and Friendship” Lochmaben SWI meets on 2nd Tuesday of the month from September to May meeting in Church Hall small hall at 7.30pm. We have a demonstrator or speaker each month. For our opening meeting in September we had Kirsty Aitken from Bespoke Feathers she showed us how she makes buttonholes for weddings decorates hats and lamps pins for kilts all with feathers. In October we are having an acupuncturist. November a Telehealth care accessor. December is our Christmas Dinner at Cafe 91 in Lockerbie. Our January meeting Margaret Vaughan is demonstrating spinning and weaving. A cooking demonstration on gluten free meals in February. March is our guest night when we invite members from neighbouring institutes and that night Andy Armstrong telling about travels on his bike. April a demonstration on China painting by Gordon Stewart. Our A.G.M is in May when we have a games night. New members and visitors are welcome. For information phone Christine Vidler on 01387 811839 E-mail [email protected].

School Celebrates its 60 year Charity link. A cheque for £1047 was handed over from Lochmaben Primary School to representatives of Save the Children, the splendid sum raised this year by the school for the Charity. The Lord Lieutenant, Fiona Armstrong, cut a cake in the presence of several special guests who included local STC members and representatives from the charity’s head office, ex- Headmaster Mr J Gordon, and Roger Turnbull, son of ex- Headmaster William Turnbull who began the Penny Box collections at the school in 1959. To mark the occasion, local branch Chairperson, Sheila Brown, presented current Headteacher, Jennifer Docherty, with a commemorative plaque and the Lord Lieutenant and Mr Turnbull each received an Eglantyne rose bush. (See also p17)

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Scottish Old Thyme Dancing

October- end of March 7.30pm to 9.30pm Royal Four Towns Hall, Hightae.

Starts Thursday 3rd October – 19th December 2019 Then 9th January – 26th March 2020

Everyone is welcome, Experienced, occasional or just a sometime dancer From Waltz and Stroll to Jigs and Reels. New and familiar dances walked through and help given Why not come along for a fun evening?

Further information from Brian Smith 01387 810588 Or e-mail [email protected]

Groups using the Church Hall

GROUP DAY TIME CONTACT Little People Monday 10.30am - 12.00pm Natashe Wroe 07889699313 Craft Group Monday 2.00 pm - 4.00 pm Barbara Aitken Sing 4 Fun Monday 7.30pm - 9.00pm Sheila Wade 810791 Silver Circuits Tuesday 11.00 am - 12.00 pm Sandra Coombie SWI 2nd Tuesdays 7.30 pm - 9.00 pm Catriona Gillan 01576202383 Church Guild 3rd Tuesdays 7.30 pm - 9.00 pm Myra Turnbull Brownies Wednesday 6.30 pm - 7.45 pm Caitriana Wilde 07990588348 Pilates Wednesday 8.00 pm - 9.00 pm Jane Henderson 07976620753 Church coffee/teas Alternate Thursdays 10.30 am - 11.30 am Not required Yoga Thursday 1.00 pm - 2.30 pm Hanna Casement

Lochmaben Action Group Helen Middleton, Secretary, writes……….. After nearly thirty years in the Community Portacabin in the school grounds, we have been advised to vacate the premises because of the deterioration of both the roof and under the floorboards. Over all the se years, numerous groups have used and enjoyed the building, as the Action Group rented out at a reasonable cost for the benefit of our local people. Everyone agreed how homely and bright the place was and we had two rooms to choose from, with good kitche n facilities. We are quite sad to have left, as the Portacabin has had many good memories for people and events, past and present. However, we must move on and are glad that our own groups are keeping going. The Community Sports Centre is where we meet now, the Lunch Club every Thursday, the Friendship Group on the first Wednesday of the month and the Fun-day on the second Tuesday of the month. New members will be made very welcome and the Action Group really needs people to join their committee at their mo nthly meetings. Please contact Helen or any of the committee if you are interested in any of the above.

Are ye gaun tae get yer jag? plook 5

Silk Scarf Marbling

Lochmaben Craft Group has had another successful year. We have continued to share our skills within the group and also been inspired by visiting presenters. Our experiences last year included bag making, arranging Christmas table decorations, silver clay jewellery, photographic clocks, a second ice dyeing workshop, a silk scarf marbling workshop and decorated eggs. Our plans for our session leading up to Christmas include crafting memory pockets, lampshade making workshop, Dorset buttons and arranging Christmas floral decorations. Our group meets in the back room of the church hall at 2 o’clock until 4 o’clock alternate Mondays. It costs £3 per person. This includes a cuppa. Dates for the next few months are 9th and 23rd of September, 7th and 21st of October, 4th and 18th of November and 2nd and 16th of December. We are always pleased to have new members coming along. For further information please contact Barbara on 01387 810740 or Alayne on 01387 810396.

Lochmaben Bowling Club Season 2019 We have had a very good summer for bowling. Membership has remained steady with 60 members. Some good successes mainly the ladies-the ladies fours qualifying for championships at Ayr also Bruce Robinson and Irene Hastings winning Dumfries Bowling Association mixed pairs. Our prize giving social and buffet was held in Kings Arms Hotel on Friday 20th September. The season starts in April and ends in September.

New members are welcome. Contact Hazel Sloan on 01387 811830 or Bruce Robinson on 01387 269153.

Lochmaben Bridge Club Lochmaben Bridge Club meets every Monday evening at Lochmaben Golf Club from the first Monday in October until the last Monday in March. New members are always welcome. For further details contact Michael Dickie on 01387 810713.

He’s aff his heid if he thinks that’ll dae me slitter

Ma heid’s mince tumshie

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Lochmaben Football Club marked the opening of their new club house by celebrating a win over Newton Stewart by 3 goals to 2. The facilities at Whitehills Park have recently been greatly enhanced with the building of a new modern club house meaning that home and away teams can shower in comfort after the match. A lot of volunteer effort went into the clubhouse which was built by local builders, H.K. Thorburn.

…………Report by James Templeton From here….. Around 4 years ago the club decided to apply for funding to try to get a purpose built pavilion for the people of the area. We got estimates at around £148,000 in total to supply and build this at Whitehills Park where the club already had a pitch but no changing facilities.

To here…… We managed to raise all the money from Trusts, and also with the backing of the local community and many of the committee, who worked tirelessly and willingly gave their time and skills to get the project up and running.

Attention to detail outside and inside

And finally to here…… After a truly joint effort, we finally completed this in the summer and played our first home game at the end of July. Previously we have had to travel to Lockerbie and play and train there at a huge cost which also involved an 8 mile round trip. Although costs have escalated, we are in a solvent position to pay this off and move forward in developing further projects over the next few years. Special thanks to all who were involved. All are welcome to visit the club and support their local team.

Check the Website http://www.southofscotlandfootballleague.co.uk/LeagueFixtures and the local press for our next home match and come along and support your local team.

Congratulations are due to everyone involved in completing this project which is a great example of community cooperation, and will greatly improve the facilities available to our young footballers.

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Lochmaben Tennis Club

The tennis club was delighted with the installation of our fantastic new floodlights in July. The club hopes to increase coaching and encourage evening play throughout the year using the new lights. We now offer Junior and adult coaching with the introduction of express tennis for those wishing to start a new sport or pick it up again. We held a fun and successful competition for the Gala Cup and enjoyed a well-attended Open Day back in May. Social tennis meet every Tuesday afternoon and Sunday morning for mixed doubles. New members are always welcome. For more details, please find us on Facebook or contact Mary Park 01387 810627 or Mike McMillan (Coach) on 07799033797. Anyone wishing to hire the courts, please enquire at Crollas or Costcutter. Hope to see you all on court soon!

…………report by James Templeton

After recently completing a full painting of the courts, the next stage was to gain funding for floodlights to allow a full yearly package for people to play. Quotes were sought and we applied for funding of around £23, 000, with the club putting in £2,000.We gained full monies and the project was completed around 1 month ago to a warm welcome. This is now allowing coaching to take place at nights and also giving the members the chance to play and practise all year. Members do not need to pay extra for the chance to play at night but this comes as a full package with a yearly subscription. It’s great to see some of the youth participating in the sport by giving them somewhere to meet together and take part in regular exercise. This is not always the case with the lack of options available to young people in Lochmaben. As a club we have tried to address this and make it as inclusive as we can, all people are welcome no matter their ability. For further information and membership details please go to https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/LochmabenTennisClub

COMMUNITY TRANSPORT How can we help you with transport? We provide affordable, accessible transport as follows: -  Individual car transport for shopping, family events, etc.  Door-to-door transport to hospital appointments in Dumfries and , Edinburgh, etc.  Minibus hire for community groups (must be constituted)  Minibus driver training All our drivers are volunteers – if you would like to help your local community as a driver (of a minibus and/or community car) please get in touch. Please contact the office to find out how ACTS can help you. 01576 203053 – [email protected]

Ah’ll skelp yer lug! glaekit 8

The Friendship Group Mary Ross (President/ Secretary) writes………… Our Group commenced the 2019/2020 session on 4th September in our new premises in the Community Centre with a photography show of birds and wild animals. Other demonstration/speakers include a handmade artisan chocolates demo, a talk on the Savings Bank Museum, a talk on the Loch Trust, and talk/slide show on Walking in the Pyrenees. We will also have our Christmas party, visit to the Pantomime at the Theatre Royal, Festive Lunch, our Guest Day and our Annual outing. Our Group caters for over sixties, new members will be made very welcome. Meetings are on Wednesdays from 1.30pm to 3.30pm. For more information call Mary Ross on 01387 810256.

Lochmaben Church Guild The session began in September and we have meetings, always in the Church Hall, through to May 2020. In January and February we meet on the third Saturday afternoon at 2.30pm. The other months we meet on the evening of the third Tuesday at 7.30pm. We already have a very interesting programme of speakers and other events organised for this session. Full details are available on the community and church websites. New members and visitors are most welcome. Please ring me on 01387 811981 if you would like any more information. Myra Turnbull, Convenor. Check www.lochmabenchurchofscotland.org.uk for programme details.

Annandale Speakers PROGRAMME OF EVENTS 2019/2020 All meetings are held on Thursdays (Except *) at the Bowling Green Clubhouse, 4 Glasgow Rd., Lockerbie. Meeting 1 Sept 26 7.30pm Jan 23 Curling 5.45pm Oct 10 Curling 5.45pm Meeting 8 Jan30 7.30pm Meeting 2 Oct 17 7.30pm Feb 13 Curling 5.45pm Meeting 3 Oct 31 7.30pm Feb 21 Smoker * Fri 7.30pm Meeting 4 Nov 14 7.30pm Meeting 9 Feb27 7.30pm Meeting 5 Nov 28 7.30pm March 12 Curling 5.45pm Dec 12 Curling 5.45pm Meeting 10 March 19 7.30pm Meeting 6 Dec 19 7.30pm Meeting 11 April 2 7.30pm Meeting 7 Jan 9 7.30pm AGM April 9 7.30pm

For further information/ details of other meetings contact George Gilhooly on 01387 264325.

Pickleball in Lochmaben Play EASY TENNIS (Pickleball) at Lochmaben Community Centre on Mondays at 19.30. No skill is required and the 1st night is free. Ring 01387 811949 if you plan to attend, to ensure there is availability. It’s an American game and is a mixture of Tennis, Badminton and Table Tennis. It is suitable for all age groups and abilities and very easy to learn. We do have a few annual competitions but most weeks we play for fun and exercise. So why not come along and give it a try. You will be more than welcome.

Are we gaun tae the pictures the morn? scunnered

That hoose o’ his is a right midden boak

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The Way

Clive Kirton writes………..

The Annandale Way is the Long Distance Footpath (about 55 miles) which follows a route from the source of the N orth of to the Solway near Barnkirk Point south of Annan. The Path was opened ten years ago in September 2009. One branch passes through the Eskrigg Nature reserve near Lockerbie, but In Lochmaben we are fortunate that another branch of the route p asses through the town. It brings visiting walkers who can stop for refreshments at one off the hostelries or the cafe, and may purchase supplies at the bakery or shops. Residents may have already unknowingly walked sections of the Annandale Way because it goes through town from the end of Broomhill Road past Marjoriebanks, Barrashead and Townhead and along Queen Street to the Town Hall. It then goes along the High Street before turning down the Annan Road. Look out for the signs like those on a lamppost opposite the Church. From there it follows the Castle Loch path a little way before coming out on the road again then going past Castle Mains Farm towards Parkend.

The original route into Lochmaben from Kinnelbridge to the north was along the road and volunteer footpath ranger Roger Turnbull, who has helped to maintain the whole length of the route with council footpath ranger Ross Gemmell since the outset, identified that this was a very dangerous section for walkers. After looking at alternatives and much careful planning and negotiation with landowners a revised route was found. From Kinnelbridge the route now follows the banks of Kinnel Water, then along a track to Broomhill Farm and along Broomhill Road. Part of this route was along the top of a steep bank. To make walking along the bank easier and safer, volunteers Stephen Sykes from Kinnelhhook and Clive Kirton from Kinnelbanks dug out a flat path by hand for about two hundred metres. Stephen regularly mows the path for about 1 km from Kinnelbridge.

The new route makes a safe and pleasant alternative to the road, with the possibility of seeing a wealth of wild life. Why not give it a try and look out for rabbits, hare, foxes, badgers, otter, heron, cormorant, goosander, buzzard and kingfisher and as winter comes large gatherings of geese.

A guidebook for the whole of the Annandale Way written by Roger Turnbull can be bought from publishers Rucksack Readers (www.rucsacs.com) or amazon.co.uk.

Fraser’s Carwash held another successful fundraiser recently. David Mair is seen receiving a donation from Fraser on behalf of the Lochmaben & District Community Initiative.

Fraser has arranged a Hallowe’en night on Saturday 26 th October at 5.30 pm at the Castle Loch. Details are on Facebook and Tickets can be reserved at his Car Wash. Promises to be an unforgettable experience for all ages!

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Lochmaben and District Community Council Lochmaben Senior Citizens Christmas Party will take place in the Community Centre on Wednesday 4th December this year, start time 2.00 pm prompt. This is a free event sponsored by the Lochmaben Community Council. Anyone who is 65+ is welcome to attend. As long as one person at the same address is 65+ then they can bring their partner. Residents who have attended in the past will be contacte d by the Community Council to check on their availability. Residents wishing to attend for the first time please contact Carol Rogerson 01387 810051 in order to be included this year. Transport will be laid on for anyone who has mobility problems or needs help to get to and from the Community Centre.

Castle Loch Lochmaben Community Trust Update This is YOUR Community, YOUR Project, and YOUR Loch.

Darren Flint, Castle Loch Project Officer writes…………..

Excitement at Castle Loch Nature ReserveExtension Castle Loch Lochmaben Community Trust and all its volunteers and supporters were excited to announce the purchase of a neighbouring patch of woodland earlier this year. The 20-acre Kirkhirst Plantation, located at the southern end of the loch near Halleaths turn, came up for private sale in 2018 and the seed of an idea for extending the reserve, rather than seeing it become commercial plantation, was planted.

There has been a sterling effort across the whole community to consult with users, fill in countless forms, undergo challenging telephone interviews and raise all the necessary funds. This behind the scenes effort paid off and the work to create a new footpath and woodland safe play area began over the summer, as the land formally passed into community ownership.

So far, we have put in a short stretch of simple woodland path, two new bridges, a seating area and children’s activities. Look out for the fairy doors! Over the coming months the volunteers and contractors will be putting in new fencing, remove lots of rhododendron to restore the woodland to a wildlife rich habitat, and extend the footpath further. The new footpath will mean we can eventually move away from using the shared track, which can often be very muddy and creates access problems.

A big thank you goes out to the Scottish Land Fund, who enabled the initial purchase of the site; along with Magnox, Annandale & Nithsdale Community Benefit Company and all the private donors for their help towards the infrastructure work.

For more information on the work at Castle Loch and to find out how you can get involved please see our Facebook page (Castlelochlochmaben) or www.castleloch.org.uk. The volunteers meet twice a month at 10am on the 1st Saturday and 3rd Thursday at Lochfield Cottage, next to the lochside car park on the Lockerbie road. Pop along if you would like to give it a go, and, as well as the outdoor work, it is also very social with lots of friendly chat, tea and homemade cake (thank you Maureen!). Alternatively, show your support by signing up for our free membership (a form is included in this newsletter) – we will keep you up to date with activities, plus your support helps us demonstrate to potential funders how much the loch is in the hearts of the community.

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LOCHMABEN GOLF CLUB Michael Dickie writes……….

We are pleased to report another successful season at Lochmaben Golf Club. Our hardworking green keepers have presented the course in excellent condition throughout the season which resulted in very favourable comment from members and visitors alike. This has been a very busy season for our captains Colin Duncan and Anne Laird. Club Champions this year were Dean Armstrong, Fiona Irvine and Russell Kingsley while Jim Graham defended his Senior title. Lochmaben won the League. The Mhairi L Charity Day, and a Captains Competition this year in aid of Neo Natal unit at Dumfries and Royal Infirmary raised £2,200. Our younger members have had a busy season not only playing but receiving instruction from Maitland Pollock and Jimmy Lennox. This has paid dividends: good scores have resulted in lowering handicaps We now have 3 juniors with single figure handicaps. Colin Mckenzie and Adam Scott both represented the South of Scotland The youngsters have also given a good account of themselves in the Dumfriesshire Junior League and in open competitions. During the school holidays the annual summer camp was held which was well subscribed and greatly enjoyed by all the youngsters. A new practice area for the Juniors was recently opened thanks to fundraising donations, volunteers and support from Tesco and a Wind Farm. This will be a great asset for the club.

Maitland and Brenda Pollock cut the tape to open the new practice area which is sited along the old 14th hole.

The Lochmaben Ladies have also had a busy season with good performances both at home and away. This year is the eleventh anniversary of The Pink Day in aid of Breast Cancer. The competition attracted an entry of 59 teams and raised an amazing £4,950. A total sum of over £53,000 has been raised over the years. In October membership open days are being held where prospective new members will have the opportunity to play the course for £10 and to join at special rates.

Further information is available from Club Secretary Michael Dickie on 01387 810713.

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Are you sitting comfortably...... ?

Here is an extract from: SATURDAY STANDARD Dec. 17, 1870.

‘LOCHMABEN: IMPROVEMENTS ON THE PARISH CHURCH, - several alterations have just been completed in this fine structure: the whole of the middle area has been reseated with comfortable pews designed by Mr. McKenzie, architect...’

The seating arrangements in Lochmaben Parish Church have been altered on several occasions over the last 200 years. The ALLOCATION OF SITTINGS, 14th JULY, 1820, are on view at the back of the church. With plans going ahead to celebrate the 200th anniversary of our church, it would be an interesting project to research the families named on these lists. If any person can identify an ancestor whose name appears on the lists, and is willing to share information about that person's life, please complete one of the information sheets. These are hanging beside the Church History display in the Church Meeting Room and also in the Church Hall. The intention is to gather this historical information (with your permission), into a small book as part of the 200th celebrations. Sue Knight Email: [email protected]

Lochmaben Community Centre Programme Day Activity Activity time Monday Softplay 12.30pm-2.00pm Highland Dancing 3.45pm-5.30pm Circuits 6.15pm-7.30pm Pickleball 7.30pm-9.00pm Tuesday Bowling 10.00am-1.00pm Highland Dancing 5.00pm-6.30pm Volleyball 7.00pm-9.00pm Wednesday Prime Movers 9.30am to 10.30am Bowling 11.00am to 1.00pm Highland Dancing 6.00pm-8.00pm Thursday Lunch Club 10.30am-2.30pm QoS Football 3.30pm-5.30pm Youth Group 7.00pm-9.00pm Friday Gymnastics 3.00pm-7.30pm Saturday Taekwondo 11.30am-12.30pm

Welcome to Lochmaben Online……. www.lochmaben.org.uk

Website Homepage:- This website has been created by the Lochmaben and District Community Initiative to provide information about the community of Lochmaben and the surrounding district for residents and visitors. Please explore the website where there’s lots of information about Lochmaben past and present. There are also several interesting leaflets intended to keep you informed about the Royal Burgh. A Burgh Brochure, A Town Trail, A Castle Loch leaflet, details of 6 Burgh Walks and a Town Flyer. If you want your name listed on our ‘Keep it Local’ leaflet, you need to support our Website. Contact Us.

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Lochmaben in Bloom 2019 Large Garden and Overall winner- Mr and Mrs Ian Rankine, 7 Vendace Drive Red Area and Overall Runner-up Mr & Mrs Jack Wade, Cartref, Marjoriebanks Blue Area Winner-Mr and Mrs Prise 12 Woodlands Drive Purple Area Winner-Mr and Mrs S Boyd 21 Barras Green Area Winner-Mrs Linda Mason 72 Annandale Crescent Tubs/Baskets- Mr and Mrs John Houston Commercial Winner-Jaybees Childcare Blacklock’s Vennel 7 Vendace Drive

Lochmaben’s gardeners again rose to the challenge this year, despite difficult growing conditions. Sheena and Ian Rankine in Vendace Drive were the overall winners with the splendid, varied and colourful display and pristine appearance of their garden. Jack and Sheila Wade in Marjoriebanks were the surprised and delighted runners up.

Well done to all the other winners in the various areas. Gardening is such a rewarding and therapeutic pastime as it gives pleasure to the gardeners themselves and also to passers-by.

Cartref

The map below shows how the burgh is divided up into the various colour zones for judging the Competition

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In Days Gone By

The Ghost of Spedlin’s Tower (as reported by The Rev.Thomas Marjoribanks, Minister, in 1835). Formerly the residence of the Jardines of Applegarth, Spedlin’s Tower was rendered famous over the country by the story of a ghost. Sir Alexander Jardine, in the reign of Charles II, had confined to the dungeon of his tower of Spedlin’s a miller named Porteous who was thought to have set fire to his own premises. Sir Alexander was suddenly called away to Edinburgh and, forgetting totally about Porteous, he carried the dungeon key with him. As soon as Porteous’ plight was remembered, a servant was dispatched from Edinburgh to rescue him. But the help arrived too late.

Porteous had died of starvation and was reported to have eaten one of his hands and feet to stave off his hunger. No sooner was Porteous dead than his ghost began to torment the household and no rest was to be had within the tower of Spedlin’s by night or by day. Despite an exorcism being carried out under the guidance of several individuals called in by Sir Alexander, the unfortunate was reportedly still heard screaming occasionally at night.

Lochmaben’s Lowland Games At one time (pre the 1939-45 War) the Lowland Games, held on the Saturday of the Glasgow Fair, were the major sporting event on Lochmaben’s sporting calendar. They attracted competitors from all parts of the UK and, on one special occasion, the cycling champions from Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales all took part. Horse races and professional sprints were all held in Stanedyke Park, behind the High Street. Quoiting, Clay Pigeon Shooting and Highland Dancing were all part of a busy programme. George McCall remembers the day as follows:- ‘ The lowland Games were brilliant, they were the top games in the South of Scotland; they were the main games in the South of Scotland; Kirkconnel- they had them as well- they were quite good, but Lochmaben was the place and we had really top sportsmen coming and competing. It was a great affair; in fact, it was a big day out for Lochmaben, something like the Gala but it was all sport. They had Greyhound racing; the M’Ghies they had Greyhounds. They had the rabbit and the Greyhounds used to run on the tracks. They had the runs stringed off, for the 100 yard runs and that sort of thing. Cycle racing, country dancing, Highland Dancing; they had a plaque and they had the Highland Dancing and they used to bring the top pipe bands as well.’

What might have been. (the Rev Thomas Marjoriebanks reporting again 1835) ‘Want of coal and lime in the immediate neighbourhood has been felt as a considerable drawback to improvements. Some years ago, a survey was made by Mr Jardine, civil engineer, for a canal from the mouth of the , to terminate in the Castle Loch. If this plan had been executed, it would have been attended with unspeakable advant ages, not only to this but to all the parishes in and around Annandale. If this canal, as proposed, had been 7 feet deep, and 28 wide at top, and from 18 to 20 at bottom, it would have been capable of receiving vessels which would carry 60 or 70 tons, and draw six feet of water.’

Ah’m fair drookit! bahookie Did you know what they all meant?

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LOCHMABEN PRIMARY SCHOOL ‘believe and achieve’

To mark both great achievements, we are hosting a celebration afternoon on Tuesday 8th October with Lord Lieutenant Fiona Armstrong joining us, along with Mr Roger Turnbull, William Turnbull’s son and also Mr Gordon former Head teacher of Lochmaben Primary. The Primary 5 class will lead the afternoon‘s entertainment with a presentation all about the work of Save the Children, this will be followed by each class performing a song, poem etc. with a focus on a country who Save the Children support. Following the class entertainment, there will be some presentations. We are expecting the local press to be present & there is a possibility that Border News may also attend. Further to the Tuesday afternoon celebrations, the Local Branch of Save the Children have organised celebration / thank you discos for our boys & girls, which are being sponsored by local businesses. The discos are scheduled for Friday 11th October in the Community Centre as follows: - Nursery & P1 9.45am –10.30am, P2-P4 10.45am-12 noon & P5-P7 1.15pm-2.45pm. We are sure both days will prove to be very enjoyable!

17 from the Local Authority which is currently valued at £134. If anyone is any doubt about they are entitled please see the Council website for full details. Parents/ carers of children in P1-P3 who think they may be entitled should still complete a form to benefit from the Clothing & Footwear Grant. You may be eligible for a school clothing grant if you receive any of the following benefits: •Income Support •Jobseeker's Allowance (Income based) •Employment and Support Allowance (Income based) •Child Tax Credit on its own, with an annual taxable income of less than £16,105 (subject to change) •Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit with an annual taxable income of less than £6,900 (subject to change) •Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 •Universal Credit with a monthly earned income of not more than £610 PUPIL COMMITTEES For a large number of years we have had a variety of Pupil Committees in place. However we have changed things a little this session and all pupils in P2-P7 will sit on a Pupil Committee. In order to facilitate this we have extended our range of Pupil Committees which will now include the following: SNAG (School Nutrition & Action Group), ECO, Global Citizenship, Pupil Voice, Library, Excellence, Gardening, NOSAP (Nurturing our School & Playground), Community & WOW (WOW will be looking at Walking& Cycling to School & Road Safety). Each Pupil Committee will have a member of staff to help & oversee. If any members of the Community think they could help or make a contribution to any of our Committees we would love to hear from you! DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Our annual Christmas Bazaar will take place on Wednesday 27th November in the Community Centre with doors opening at 6.30pm. This year each class from within the School & the Nursery class will have a stall. There will be the usual Raffle, Tombola, Refreshments and that special visitor with a red suit and white beard. Please come along and support us. Further dates include:- Christmas Concert (P1) Tuesday 10th December 1.45pm Christmas Concert (P5-P7) Wednesday 11th December 1.45pm Christmas Concert (P2-P4) Wednesday 11th December 6.00pm Christmas Concert (P2-P4) Thursday 12th December 1.45pm Christmas Concert (P1) Thursday12th December 6.00pm Christmas Concert (P5-P7) Thursday12th December 6.45pm Christmas Service Friday 20th December 9.30am School closes Friday 20th December Inset Days (no pupils) Monday 6th & Tuesday 7th January School reopens (pupils) Wednesday 8th January Holiday Monday17th –Wednesday 19th February Inset Days (no pupils) Thursday 20th & Friday 21st February Easter Service Friday 3rd April 9.30am School closes Friday 3rd April School reopens Monday 20th April

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Spotlight Jackie Bell, 60 years young! Jackie was born in Millhousebridge to Mary and Jack Graham, the local blacksmith. Having left school at 16 Jackie began her career in childcare 44 years ago when she left home, London bound, to work as a nanny for a doctor on Harley Street. Upon moving home to Lochmaben Jackie married Kenny Bell in 1981 and became a devoted Mum to Steven, Alexa and Georgia. She set up her own childminding business then managed to secure a piece of land 9 years ago to make her dream of owning a nursery a reality. Jaybees childcare is a family run business at the heart of our village, providing childcare for many of our local families, and continually aiming to improve the quality of childcare both at a local and national level. Jackie is a successful business woman, but also an avid supporter of the local community and a passionate charity fundraiser. The outdoors underpins Jackie’s ethos at Jaybees and she quotes that ‘childhood is a state of mind that ends the moment a puddle is viewed as an obstacle rather than an opportunity’. Jackie believes strongly in the value of the experiences she had as a child from perfume making with the petals to climbing trees and scraping knees and wants all the children in her care to have these opportunities too. Jackie now has three grandchildren who just love her enthusiasm and play with risk attitude. Jaybees often access the local forest classroom at the castle Loch where Darren and the team work tirelessly to ensure this haven for children and indeed the people of our community is maintained and its natural environment looked after of which Jackie describes as ‘an asset not only to our community but to the service I strive to offer and to the childhood of all those in my care’. Jaybees has a fantastic outdoor space of its own including a thriving vegetable garden, ‘a fundamental lesson for children, it is so important they know where their food comes from and the skills required to produce it. The children of today will determine the planet of the future and with the outlook as it is just now there has never been a more important time to ensure children have an understanding that there is no planet B and it is our job to look after the one we have’. Jackie and the team strive every day to create a truly memorable experience that is unmeasured and built on true family values, values that we benefited from through the generations. Our highly qualified staff strive to deliver our curriculum both indoors and outdoors, removing the walls of the classroom and leaving the children with a life-long love for their natural environment. Jackie promotes a happy healthy life-style and ensures both physical and mental wellbeing are nurtured. ‘Overall we aim to provide the best possible experiences for the children in our care where high quality learning and childcare is our top priority, developing skills for life-long learning and providing the experiences for the best possible start in life thus allowing children to reach their full potential and learn in time to the rhythm of the seasons’. Jackie’s newest adventure is Junior meets Senior. ‘I believe strongly in the benefits of bringing the young and the old together, with the enjoyment and learning working on a two way stream. We have a strong connection with a local care home, just a bus ride away and are currently beginning to extend this inviting elderly members of the community in to join us and share their skills and experience. Heather is a retired local lady who is still extremely physically able and has a world of experience in the early years from her career in childcare. Heather has early on set dementia but we don’t want this to define her. This illness is not seen by children, the first thing they see is her smile, her knee for a story and her never ending patience. She volunteers her time at the nursery 3 afternoons per week and is a real character, loved dearly by both the staff and children. The children and Heather together provides a calmness and security for both which is priceless and such a joy to witness. How they connect, share stories and engage together is an area we will explore further addressing this huge challenge in our communities today. At Jaybees we know we can provide the platform for intergenerational projects’.

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The future is exciting for Jaybees. We have submitted plans to the local authority for an indoor outdoor facility, an intergenerational space including a nursery for 100 children and an assisted living village that will create care for the region; the space will connect the generations in a safe and holistic environment allowing all to connect and improve life experiences. The outdoor spaces will comprise of walkways, nature , ponds, raised allotments, recreational space, cycle paths, and forest and rest space.

Jackie recognises the importance of giving back to a way of life she has come to thrive on and love. ‘ I have been working closely in academic partnerships from early years to higher education to create early awareness and importance of a skilled workforce When it comes to recruitment I believe in investing time in new and existing staff, attracting the best and retaining the quality of staff we have. We educate and grow our own similar to what we do with the children in our care. Our Jaybees staff team are fundamentally the building blocks for the success of the nursery and the service we provide’. ‘Don’t limit challenges, challenge your limit’.

Our overarching theme in the hive is “There is no planet B”! We have been focusing on reducing, reusing and recycling and working together with the children to ensure a future for our planet. The children know that our actions now will determine the outcome of the world around us and have been coming up with ways to ensure we do everything we can to bring about a positive change from our own recycling centre for the nursery and our families, an eco-warrior competition, exploring our oceans and thinking about greener ways to travel, reducing our carbon footprint. Granny Bees continues to be a roaring success as we enjoy visits from Heather twice a week. Heather has early onset dementia but she is determined, as we are, to ensure this does not define her. The children do not see her illness, first they see her smile and a knee for a cuddle, and then they see her sense of adventure and never- ending patience. She is loved dearly by both staff and children. Heather has a wealth of knowledge in the early years from her lifelong career in childcare. We continue to visit Westfield weekly and welcome the residents into the hive, thus promoting wellbeing and learning on a two- way stream. Junior meets Senior has huge benefits, providing a calmness and security for both which is priceless and a joy to witness. How they connect and share stories and engage together is an area we will be addressing, as a challenge that faces our community today. With autumn now upon us, we will also be looking forward to conker collecting, leaf crunching, forest fun and ‘Hey Ho Halloween’.

Jaybees (Childcare) Ltd Blacklocks Vennel Lochmaben

DG11 1NP

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