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Alyth Voice www.alythvoice.co.uk 187th Edition, February 2014 1725 copies Festive celebrations in ! Primary Sunday School Nativity A large audience turned out on Christmas Eve to watch the Nativity play by children from Alyth Parish Church Sunday School

L-R Alex Mac Donald , Cameron MacDonald, Ross Tait, Emma Tait, Emily Hatton, Rachael Mitchell, Lewis Mitchell, Sam McLean

Front Scott Robertson, Liam McLean, Jessica Hatton, Jenna Don, Seth Phillips, Aaliyah Skelton, Abbie Maxtone, Jennifer Smith, Sophie Maxtone Angels Sophie & Abbie Maxtone and Jessica Hatton

Alyth Nursery Concert The Alyth Nursery held a concert for family and friends who were treated to coffee and biscuits afterwards. It was a much enjoyed event.

The Alyth Voice is a free monthly newsletter, managed, written, and delivered by volunteers.

Alyth Choral Union

Alyth Choral Union, directed by Helen M Addison and Brass Band conducted by George Annan entertained a large audience at Alyth Parish Church with a fine selection of festive music. Guest soprano Layla Brown sang several pieces concluding with a wonderful rendition of O Holy Night. Luke Newman ably accompanied the pieces. Should you wish to join the choir please contact any of the choir members.

Choral Union Choral Union and Perthshire Brass

W Brewster gives thanks Layla Brown Helen Addison

The Beacon was lit.

Despite the worst weather for many years more than 50 hardy souls climbed the Alyth Hill to witness the beacon being lit for the fifteenth time. Dave Mclaren who has been involved with the beacon since it's inauguration, usually organising everyone to ensure the beacon is filled and lit is stepping down. I am sure the people of Alyth would like to thank him for his work and hope to see him in his chair (preferably not in the rain) next year, when it will be lit once again. I would also take this opportunity to thank John Robertson, Graeme Davidson and Sims Ironmongers for sup- plying transport, wood and paraffin.

D H Todd

Beacon Crowd Beacon bonfire

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Alyth Parish Church Primary Sunday School Christmas Cards

In the Spring of 2013, the chldren of Primary Sunday School were given the opportunity to design a Christmas card for Crossreach. None of our entries were the winning card ,however they all received com- mendation certificates that they received last June at Prize- giving. From their entries we designed our own Primary Christmas card . We received tremendous support and after our costs were met we were able to present a cheque to the church for £142-50.

The Christmas Window Competition

The Christmas Window Competition which is sponsored by Alyth & Dis- trict Business Association had some fantastic displays for Christmas 2013 with windows in, it would seem, every business in Alyth. The displays were in many various forms from Santa Clauses of every shape and size with some climbing ladders, Christmas trees of every shape, size and colour, Reindeers of many colours, Post boxes, Eski- mos, Igloos, Polar bears of many shapes and sizes, Village snow scenes, Christmas Carols, Parcels large small and the in-between, Skiers, Snow Log Cabins, and many, many more. It is hoped that many photographs were taken of all the windows The judge Mrs Marguerite McKenzie, Alyth’s Citizen of the Year 2013 had the seemingly impossible task of deciding the winners. She said stated it was one of the hardest and most difficult tasks ( and probably the coldest) that she had ever undertaken and she was up and down Alyth looking at the windows on various occasions but after much sole searching and looking she decreed the winners were :- 1st—Alyth Fish Bar

1st The Alyth Fish Bar, 1 Airlie Street, Alyth, received the Christmas Window Competition Shield and a framed certificate. 2n The Singing Kettle. 14 Airlie Street, Alyth, a framed certificate 3rd The Alyth Bakehouse Mill Street, Alyth a framed certificate.

Thanks must be expressed to all the businesses for their fantastic window displays which must have been the best in Tayside if not and for bringing such festive cheer to visitors and Alyth residents. Thanks must also be expressed to Marguerite for her time judging this event.

Thanks must also be included to the Alyth Christmas Lights Committee and all their erectors/helpers for the best ever Christmas light display in Alyth. Well done to all who were involved.

2nd—The Singing Kettle 3rd—Alyth Bakehouse

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Squadron’s Annual Inspection

On Wednesday 22nd January 2014, 2519 (Strathmore) Squadron, Air Training Corp, received its annual formal inspection from Squad- ron Leader Barry McAdam RAF VR (T), Deputy Officer Commanding South East Scotland Wing.

Squadron Leader Barry McAdam was welcomed to the Squadron by Flight Lieutenant Roy Kemp the Officer Commanding 2519 Squad- ron. The cadets who were on parade were then inspected by Squadron Leader McAdam, who spoke with each of them. Squadron Leader Barry McAdam was then asked by Flight Lieuten- ant Roy Kemp to carry out four promotions, and presentation of awards they were as follows, Cadet Sergeant Murray Bullions (Blairgowrie) to Cadet Flight Sergeant and Cadets Rea Bloice () , Aidan Preston (Blairgowrie) and Lorraine Mckenzie (Alyth) to Corporal.

This was followed by the presentation of the Alan Harper Memorial Corporal Lorraine McKenzie (Alyth) Sergeant Murray Bullions getting his Cup for Aircraft Recognition to Corporal Aidan Preston (Blairgowrie) getting the shield for the best uni- Flight Sergeants tapes by Sqd Ldr for coming first in the recent squadron competition and the Uniform form turnout over the last year by Barry McADam Dress Competition Shield, which was for uniform turn out over the Sqd Ldr Barry McADam past twelve months, was presented to Corporal Lorraine Mckenzie (Alyth).

The best recruit of the year 2013 certificate was presented to Cadet James Hilditch Blairgowrie) and Corporal Lorraine McKenzie (Alyth) was presented with her Regional Marksman Certificate and Corporal Rea Bloice (Luncarty) was presented with her Corps Marksman certificate both were award at an Autumn Camp at Royal Air Force Henlow At the end of the parade, Squadron Leader Barry McAdam took the opportunity to address the cadets during which he encouraged them in their studies for the exams his compliments to all who had received promotions and he also praised the cadets for their standard of turnout and also advised how lucky they were with their fantastic new cadet premises.. During the remainder of the evening Squadron Leader Barry McAdam met many of the cadets individually and was present when Flight Sergeant Mark Harper taught a class on packing a rucksack and all the equipment and clothes required for a Duke of Award expedition and also took part in a Aircraft Recognition class run by Flight Lieutenant Michael Kay. At the end of his evening he was thanked by Flight Lieutenant Roy Kemp, for his interest in all the squad- ron activities.

If the above interests you and you are between the ages of 13 years old to 18 years old come along any Monday or Wednesday evening be- Corporal Lorraine McKenzie being presented with her tapes by tween 7.00.p.m. and 9.00.pm to 2519 (Strathmore) Squadron, The Drill Sqd Ldr Barry McADam Hall, Union Street, Blairgowrie.

Corporal Aidan Preston being presented with the Alan Harper Cadet James Hilditch getting his recruit of the year 2013 certificate Memorial Cup by Sqd Ldr Barry McADam from Sqd Ldr Barry McADam

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Useful Telephone Numbers *~*~* ALYTH Dates for Your Diary *~*~* Airlie Street Hall (contact-Shona Milne) - 01828 633219 Due to the advance notice of these dates, please check for changes! Alyth Town Hall (contact: Richard Duncan) - 01828 633846 Ogilvie Rooms (contact Tina Tripney) - 01828 632717 FEBRUARY Blairgowrie Police Station - 0300 111 2222 1st Table Sale Beavers Perth Police Station - 0300 111 2222 Hydro-Electric Emergencies - 0800 300 999 1st Cheese and Wine Scouts Scottish Gas Emergencies - 0800 111 999 3rd Committee Meeting Scouts Scottish Water - 0845 6008 855 8th Coffee Morning Isla Primary Alyth Post Office - 01828 632 301 10th Lunch Alyth SC Lunch Club Alyth Health Centre - 01828 632 317 Alyth Primary School - 01250 871 370 13th Bingo Tea Scouts Blairgowrie High School - 01250 871 200 23rd Coffee Morning Alyth SC Exercise Group NHS 24—new 24 hour health service - 08454 24 24 24 24th Lunch Alyth SC Lunch Club Anti-social Behaviour Team - 01738 476 173 Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Advisor - 01738 562 358 MARCH If you offer an emergency or breakdown service, send the Voice your details. 8th Car Wash Scouts 15th Quiz Night Scouts 17th Lunch Alyth SC Lunch Club 31st Lunch Alyth SC Lunch Club ALYTH HEALTH CENTRE NEW ALYTH ROAD, ALYTH, PH11 8EQ Main Health Centre Number: 01828 632 317 FOR ALL EVENTS CHECK ONLINE www.alythvoice.co.uk Repeat Prescription Line: 01828 633 663 (24 hour answering machine) Community Nurse: 01828 632425 Health Visitor: 01828 633 954 After Hours - NHS24 tel: 08454 24 24 24 - VOICE TEASER - Daily Opening Hours - Monday to Friday 8am-6pm Late surgeries by appointment Answer to December’s Teaser: Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday - 5pm to 6pm Extended hours one night per week by appointment What is the shortest word in the English language to contain all of the Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday in rotation-till 6.15pm vowels? Extended hours morning by appointment Sequoia, eulogia or miaoued are all good options, but there's an even Fridays 7am - 8am shorter (and more obscure) word with all the vowels and not a single Blood Clinic by appt - Monday/Thursday - 8.30-9.30am consonant: Iouea. It's not the kind of word you'd use at the dinner table, but it's listed in the Wikipedia dictionary as a genus of Cretaceous fossil sponges.

ALYTH VOICE TEAM If you got really tricky and tried to find a word that contained the letters Editor: Paul Ramsay - 01828 632 992 in the phrase 'all of the vowels', you probably found, like I did, that there [email protected] & [email protected] isn't one. But it was still worth checking.

Compositor: Catriona Ronald Typist: Dianne Brown Voice Teaser for February: Advertising: Derek Todd - 01828 632 046 [email protected] You watch a group of words going to a party. A word either enters through one of two doors or is turned away by the guards. 'HIM' goes Distribution: Paul & Barbara Prettyman - 01828 633 725 through door number one and 'BUG' goes through door number two. Alistair Scrimgeour 'HER' is turned away. 'MINT' and 'WEAVE' go in through door one, Mary Hogg 'DOOR' and 'CORD' take door two and 'THIS' and 'That' aren't allowed [email protected] in. What determines whether a word can enter and which door they Treasurer: Michael Kay - 01828 632 252/632 690 must use? [email protected] Webmaster: Derek Todd - [email protected]

ARTICLE SUBMISSION to the Voice ADVERT SUBMISSION to the Voice In order to avoid disappointment please ensure that articles for In order to avoid disappointment please ensure that adverts for publication are submitted before the 19th day of each month NOTE: publication are submitted before the 14th day of each month Views expressed (inc. Ads) in the Alyth Voice are not necessarily those It is the advertisers responsibility to inform the Voice of all changes of the team nor can they accept any responsibility for accuracy and before the dead line of the14th. Changes, adverts received after this spelling of any article. Please note ALL articles must be date will not be included. The Voice can no longer call/visit on adver- accompanied with a name and address BEFORE they will be published tisers. Any time sensitive adverts that are published will be pulled if in the Voice. On request, the name and address may be withheld from no further amendments are received. Once your space is lost further publication. Any submission without these details will NOT be included. adverts cannot be guaranteed. We regret that space cannot be It would be a great help and much appreciated if articles submitted booked. could be in a separate document and in font Arial Narrow, 10pt with Email: [email protected] titles Arial, 12pt and bold.

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Letter re Help for Heroes Challenge

Dear Sirs,

Hi, I’m Lynsey Fitzpatrick, . I live in Bank Street in Alyth. Myself and my black Labrador “Rabbie”, have challenged ourselves to climb to the summit of all 282 of Scotland’s Munros (mountains over 3000 feet) with the aim to raise money for the soldier’s charity “Help for Heroes”. We started this challenge back in June 2012 and we have targeted to complete all 282 by Christmas Day 2014.

Due to work commitments Monday to Friday, we can only climb the munros at weekends and during my work annual leave. In the summer of 2012 Rabbie and I started this challenge and by mid November we had climbed a total of 50. We stopped for the winter months, not wanting to put Rabbie at risk during this difficult season. In 2013 we started climbing again in May and by November we had climbed another 98 taking our total to 148. However 2014 will be our biggest year yet, and we aim to climb the remaining 134 munros by Christmas Day.

The charity Help for Heroes has a personal connection to me. I am a Soldier’s wife and my husband has been deployed a number of times to both Iraq and Afghanistan. On a deployment abroad he was seriously injured and flown back to the UK to be treated at Selly Oaks Hospital, QEH Birmingham. The main receiving unit for all soldiers injured abroad. During my visits there I was shocked by the number of the soldiers in the wards and also the severity of their injuries. This was a really emo- tional time, and although I had felt that I had been through quite a number of difficult years myself with my husband heading off on numerous deployments, being with these seriously injured soldiers and there families made me realise that what I had en- dured was nothing to what lay ahead for them. My husband has recovered and back working again with the Army, but for the majority of the other soldiers from the wards they are not so lucky, their injuries were so extreme that they cannot continue with the life they previously knew. I was so effected by the whole experience and knowing what a fortunate position I am in, I want- ed to undertake my own demanding challenge to raise money and awareness for this charity to help these soldiers and their families through the difficult years that lie ahead.

Before I started this Munro Challenge I had very little experience in the mountains, yes I had climbed Ben Nevis and Shiehallion but only by the tourist routes and I had no previous experience of walking or navigating alone in the mountains. It has been difficult to find company to walk with us every weekend, so Rabbie and I have climbed quite a number of the munros on our own. We try and programme for the difficult and remote munros when we can be joined with company. Being on your own in the hills can be daunting but I do not feel alone with Rabbie there by my side. Rabbie always needs to be a few paces ahead of me, he likes to lead and to be the one to find the route ahead. He is very alert and warns me if there is danger, for example at mountain streams he gets anxious for me and although he is safely across himself he wont leave the bank until I am safe too. If we are heading down an overgrown mountain side, he sniffs out other hikers tracks to allow me a safer de- scent. He is a dog in a million and I could not have undertaken this challenge without him.

Although so far we have climbed 148 it has not come without its difficulties, I have suffered from a number of chest infections and an eye virus which I believe has been due to walking in bad weather conditions. Overcoming the difficulties only adds to the experience of the challenge. It has been real adventure so far and an enjoyable one and I cant wait to get going again this year. Now that we are over half way through we wont give up and are both committed to completing every single munro within the deadline we have set.

Rabbie and I aim to raise £5000 for Help for Heroes with this challenge but we are still some way to go yet to reach our mone- tary target. So far we have been raising money at our on-line Help for Heroes charity page: http://www.bmycharity.com/ LynseyFitzpatrick and shaking collecting tins on the mountains as we go. This year however I am planning on holding a num- ber of mountain themed fundraising events with colleagues, friends and family. We would be grateful if you would be able to help in any way you can to assist with our challenge and our fundraising.

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter; you can view our challenges progress to date at our web-page https:// www.facebook.com/lynseyandrabbie

Kind regards, Lynsey Fizpatrick

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Citizen and Community Group of the Year

Alyth Community Council is delighted to announce our Citizen and Community Group of the Year.

Marguerite McKenzie is our Citizen of the Year. Marguerite has a long and distinguished history as the stalwart and driving force for Alyth in Bloom. Her efforts have seen beautiful displays making the town more pleasant and welcoming for residents and visi- tors alike. Marguerite was also a long standing member of Alyth Community Council where she was always an active participant and a great representative for the town.

Alyth Youth Partnership are the Community Group of the Year. Alyth Youth Partnership are renowned throughout the town for their work with young residents, but more crucially for the contribution from the children themselves, from their fund raising efforts, assistance at town events and for the Snow Patrol clearing driveways in the winter.

We are delighted with our two deserved winners this year. We were however disappointed that we did not receive any valid nomi- nations for the Young Citizen of the Year award. The nominations we received were either for individuals that were too old or lived outside the Alyth Community Council area. We know that there are young residents who are contributing enormously to the town but we are not receiving nominations on their behalf.

Queens Award for Voluntary Service We would like to add our congratulations and thanks to the Alyth Senior Citizens Lunch and Socialising Club who have been awarded the Queens Award for Voluntary Service, which was very highly deserved. Town Centre Regeneration We continue to discuss with Perth and Council, land owners and developers about improving the state of the Town Cen- tre. Following the Place Check and Workshop in September, a sub committee has been set-up to continue this work. Thank you to all of those who attended and took part in the Place Check and workshop. The sub committee has met several times and have provided feedback to the Council on their draft Place Check results. Communication The Community Council uses a number of different methods to let you know about our work for the town. There is our web- site . You can also find us on Facebook at. We also have a Community Box in Alyth Library and from time to time post notices on the notice board on the Market Square. Feel free to get in touch about any issues of concern by writing to us at: Viewpark, Meethill Road, Alyth, PH11 8DE, by phone on 07866 934 769 or by email at [email protected]

Trodlem

There have been a number of letters in the Voice with regards to the Trodlem Path, with discussion about whether the path should be left to grow with wild plants and flowers or be planted. After much discussion with many different people and organisa- tions we have established that following the building of the houses on Trodlem a considerable amount of building material was left on the verges of the path, as is often the case with such developments. Some local residents volunteered to remove this and gen- erally clean up the area, another example of local people getting together to improve our town.

Finding the area choked with weeds, the area was planted with shrubs and maintained over the last 3 years, keeping the area tidy and free of weeds. Wild plants and flowers do support local wildlife and the rural environment. However, this section of the Trodlem path is now between two rows of houses in an essentially residential area. Beyond the houses, the path is bordered by wild plants and flowers up to the Community Woodland.

We understand that the ownership of this section of the Trodlem path has been established and approval given for the planting of the shrubs. Given this, and the history of the loss of natural habitat as a result of the house building along this section of the path, Alyth Community Council are satisfied that there is no need to change things as they currently st and.

We respect and appreciate that everyone involved cares passionately about their local environment and reflects the strength of community in Alyth.

Sanjay Samani Chair, Alyth Community Council

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2 Local Girls offering a range of Eye treatments incl Tinting & Perming M: 07770 985736 services including: Heavenly Bodies Spray Tanning House Cleaning * Office Cleaning Make-Up [email protected] Shop Cleaning Manicure/Pedicures www.homeopathyperthshire.co.uk Spring Cleaning including Holiday Lets Shellac Shopping * Ironing * House sitting Minx Hospital Appointments L.V.L Lashes Overnight stays * Meals Body Massage Respite at home * Companionship Packages Available Call Gift Vouchers

Wendy 07725 225720/01250 874977 or Call anytime for more information or call in. Avril 07749052036 Tel:- 01828 640662, Mob 07902009177 Sparkles Cleaning Christine Churches Kirriemuir, Old Parish Church “The Pines”, Meigle Blairgowrie, Hall Wednesday 6.15pm & Thursday 10am Service PH12 8RN Newtyle, Legion Hall, Belmont Domestic Street Thursday 6.15pm UTOPIA MOBILE THERAPY Classes are held on a week to week and Commercial basis across Angus, Tayside & Fife and SPORTS AND REMEDIAL MASSAGE are a way of meeting like Blairgowrie minded people. You will be supplied

BOWEN THERAPY with your gwenmccreadie.com Call Anne, 07835030533 01250 870235 OR 0797 1141744 Eating Plan and record diaries on your

Email: [email protected] www.utopiamobiletherapy.com first visit. [email protected] For more details contact Donna Leslie on 07875 612 329

Ian Miller - Your Local Councillor for the Strathmore Area Surgery: Alyth Town Hall (Old Chambers) on 1st Tuesday of each month at 7:00pm Tel: P&K Council 01738 475018 (8:45am-5:00pm) or Home 01250 873304 Email: [email protected]

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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU! Beauty, Health & Fitness Complement your healthy-eating Mobile: 07445 112905 & fitness plan Mobile Therapists bringing the salon to you! with a relaxing & detoxifying *Do you work Full Time? Carla Thomson Reflexology or Aromatherapy treatment *Salons always Fully Booked or closed? MSc, BSc (Hons), Dip SOM, MCSP (20% discount with this advert) *Do you have children with no available Phone me now to discuss - Back pain babysitters? the best option for you - Neck pain *Are you a full Time Carer? Sally Robertson - Muscle and joint pain *Physically find it hard to get out and about to Tel: 01828 640201 - Sports injuries a Salon? - Post-surgery rehabilitation Beauty Therapies with Annette - Facials, - Post-fracture rehabilitation Eye & Brow Treatments, Nail & Make up Blairgowrie Mobile Foot Clinic - Arthritis Artistry, Acrylic Sculptured, Treatment in the comfort of your - Mobility Problems - Massage Therapy Waxing & Threading own home for: Body Therapies with Mark - On- site  Nail Cutting Day & evening appointments Massage, Indian Head Massage, Highly Experienced Physiotherapist Aromatherapy Massage, Hot Stone  Callus’ or Corns TEL: 01250 870062 Therapy, Reflexology...and MORE!

 Fungal Infections or www.blairgowriephysiotherapy.co.uk To Keep up with current offers and Athletes Foot Blairgowrie Physiotherapy, competitions ‘LIKE’ our ‘Facebook  In-growing Toenails 36 Lowermill Street, Blairgowrie, PH10 6AQ Page’ (EuphoriaBHF)

For all your Foot-care requirements contact:

Madeleine McIntosh NUMBER 5 S.A.C Dip, FHPT FHPP 01828 632297 Registered Foot-health Practitioner TRICIA CATHY 01250 872005 or CHIROPODY & SUGARING mob 07904 382840 FACIALS, EYELASH/BROW TINTING FLAWLESS BEAUTY SALON MANICURE, PEDICURE, 34 Lower Mill St, Blairgowrie BY CREATIVE NAILS 01250 870826 *NOW AVAILABLE* Waxing, Nail Extensions, TANTRICK (SPRAYTAN) £20 Manicure & Pedicure APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE Eye treatment, TUES TO FRI. Extreme Male & Female Waxing Massage, Spray Tanning & Kids Pamper Parties Special offers available Dermalogica Facial PILATES Threading, Bridal Packages Mat Classes and 1 to 1 Classes

Shellac Designer Nails St Catharine's Community Centre, Blairgowrie

Tuesday evenings and Wednesday mornings

Pilates is a corrective form of exercise, targeting the deep postural muscles that support the spine and lower back, building strength from the inside out. The aim is to achieve a balance between strength and flexibility and plays a key role in injury prevention and rehabilitation. For details of class times and prices Tel: Julie 07963 088 112 (Body Control Pilates and Reps Member) [email protected]

MURDO FRASER MSP MID SCOTLAND & FIFE For help and advice ~ Look for details of regular surgeries in the local press. To arrange a meeting you can contact Murdo on 01738 553990 or write to him at The Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh, EH99 1SP; or e-mail him at [email protected]

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Perth Citizens Advice Bureau, Benefits Advice in Libraries Project:

As the UK government rolls out Welfare Reform citizens receiving welfare payments face an uncertain future as to whether or not they can continue to claim the benefits they are currently entitled to. The situation is similar for those who are not presently claiming but for a variety of factors including unemployment, redundancy, illness, disability, family responsibilities, etc. may be required to claim benefits in the near or distant future. If this was not enough to worry about, the obligation for citizens to claim and manage their benefits online has increased as the process of claiming becomes increasingly ‘digitised’. For those unfamiliar with IT this will cause additional stress and anxiety. The Benefits Advice in Libraries (BAIL) project run by Perth Citizens Advice Bureau sets out to tackle both these issues. Currently based in 8 local libraries within local authority, BAIL aims to provide one to one advice on a wide range of benefit related issues, i.e. checking enti- tlement, applying to claim, etc. For those who are unfamiliar and/or uncomfortable using IT, BAIL aims to provide guidance and support on managing benefits online.

In Scotland numerous initiatives are in place to assist citizens to maximise their income. These include Winter Fuel Payment for those over 60, Home Energy Efficiency Programmes (HEEPS) and NHS Low Income Scheme amongst many others. These schemes can allow those on limited incomes to save significant money on essential expenses such as heating. Sadly many who are eligible are unaware of what they are entitled to and miss out. In addition to advising a client on addressing their benefit problems, BAIL sets out to determine if they are enti- tled to other forms of support with which they can maximise their income.

BAIL is open to all who live within Perth and Kinross. At the moment the service is offered in libraries within Perth (AK Bell and North Inch Community Campus), Blairgowrie, Scone, , Aberfeldy, Auchterarder and Kinross. However we are planning to expand the service into smaller local libraries within the next few months. If you have a benefits problem and think BAIL could help you, call 01738 450599 to make an appointment. As with all services offered by CAB, BAIL is free, confidential, independent and impartial.

"SCOTLANDS FUTURE"

NEED TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE INDEPENDENCE REFERENDUM ON SEPTEMBER 18th 2014?

THE ALYTH LIBRARY HAS FIVE COPIES OF "SCOTLANDS FUTURE" FOR YOUR PERUSAL OR PHONE 0300 012 1809 FOR YOUR OWN FREE COPY

ALYTH BUSINESS CHANGES HANDS

Solutions of Alyth well known for printing personalised clothing & signage for businesses & individual cus- tomers has now changed hands.

Dennis & Libby Melloy who started the business five years ago would like to thank everyone who support- ed them over the years.

Solutions was getting busier & getting more demand- ing trying to balance the business with my duties as your local councillor, Dennis said. It now needs someone who can take it on to the next level. I am sure the new owners Mike & Karen Walsh will do this, they will I am sure, be a great asset to the Town. Libby & I wish them much success in their new venture. Mike brings a great deal of experience to the busi- ness having spent many years in the printing industry Alyth Solutions contact details remain the same. Tele- phone 01828 633065 e mail [email protected]

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Don’t have access to email? THANK YOU

Your Letters It’s free in the Airlie Street Library Blairgowrie Tennis Club would like to thank Alyth & District Business Association for al- lowing us to have a table in the Airlie Street Looking for Contacts THANK YOU Hall on Victorian Day. Thank you also to the

Alyth people for supporting us that day. We Hello my name is Alison Mill and I’ve just Helen Menzies and Family would like to raised £116.75 which will help towards our return to Alyth after an absence of 43 thank everyone who bought raffle tickets new tennis courts, funds that we desperately years. for the Xmas and New Year Hampers or need I went to Alyth Primary School and was s the Quiz, and helped us raise £ 365.00. for old when I moved to Australia with my Marie Curie Cancer Care. family. Corrine Carrie, Dundee ( Formerly Alyth) We used to live at Losset House back won the Xmas hamper, Vicky Sutherland, then. Dundee won the New Year Hamper and I’m looking to make contact with anyone Kay Seal, Blairgowrie won the Quiz. who remembers me from “way back then” to catch up.

I can be contacted on 01828 632225 and look forward to hearing from you. THANK YOU

Alyth AFC would like to say a big “Thank CHRISTMAS DAY at BURNSIDE you” to Paul’s Spar, Humpty Dumpty Early Years Care COURT LOUNGE Alyth for his very generous donation to the

Club. The team is doing Thanks to all those who entered the play- Thank you to everyone who offered to very well at the moment- at 15 -11-13 we group’s recent film quiz. Thanks also to all help, provided food, made soup, gave gifts are unbeaten in 15 games including a 2-1 the local traders who sold them for us. Con- (including the lady who handed in a gift to victory over Rattray in the Scottish Cup. gratulations to Mandy Shepherd for winning Burnside Inn), and those who popped in to the cash prize and we are extremely grateful join us at Burnside Court Lounge where However, on a negative note, we had to Mandy for donating the prize back to the we had a wee gathering for people who hoped that since our last appeal we had group. For more information on the childcare were otherwise facing Christmas Day on got over services provided by the group, please call their own. We had a lovely afternoon and the problem of dog dirt on the pitch but 07515 484 740. those who attended appreciated having this problem has come back again so we company. are THANK YOU Irene Robertson (New Alyth) asking all dog owners who take their dog Robertson (New Alyth)

for a walk in the park can you please pick

up I would like to thank everyone who has of- I Need Your Help! your dog’s mess and put in the bin provid- fered their congratulations, written or spoken,

ed. on the news I am to be awarded a British I am trying to and raise £1000 for Diabetes Empire Medal for Services to the Community UK - adopt a project. I'm choosing to raise Thank you. of Alyth. Your kindness has been overwhelm- it for research in Scotland which is a benifit ing and I appreciate every single message. In to people around us. Your cooperation in this matter would be the short time since the announcement, I I will have many events over this year but much appreciated. have taken every opportunity to highlight the would like if you could fill a jar with loose wonderful community spirit in Alyth and its change and coppers to start me off ? F. Badzmirowski hard working volunteers. It is clear our wee If you can please phone me on 01828 Alyth AFC President. toon is unique in that respect and my pride in 633742 to let me know and I can give you everyone who contributes to that spirit grows more information ! Every penny will help so by the day. You all deserve a medal. please help me :-) CITIZEN OF THE YEAR. Irene Ryan Mollison

I would like to thank everyone who nomi- KYDD

nated me for Citizen of the Year, thank you THANK YOU for thinking of me. Elma, Rab and Lesley the family of the late

I am not one hundred percent sure what Ed, would like to thank all relatives, friends Ross Murray, paper boy for Lunans, would the “duties might involve, but no doubt I and neighbours for the many cards and like to Thank everyone for the Christmas will find out in the near future, and of beautiful flowers received also to Scott and Tips he received this year. course will do my best to carry them out.” Lynn the ambulance crew and wards 15 and

Best wishes to yo all, and thank you again. 3 Ninewells and Blairgowrie Cottage Hospital

Yours truly, for their care and attention. STAHLMAN The Very Rev Kenny Rathband for his com- Marguerite McKenzie forting service and Graeme of Co-operative Catherine Stahlman (nee Dewar) passed 6 Sidlaw Crescent, Alyth funeral care for his guidance and to all who away on 28th December 2013 in Canada, paid their last respects at Perth Crematorium. aged 84 years. David Street Alyth. Originally from Alyth, daughter of the late Janet Dewar (nee Slavin)

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Alyth Parish Public Notices Voice Articles Church Thank you all for your letters and articles— they are appreciated by all in the community. Sunday Service 11am ROMAN CATHOLIC Evening Service at 6 pm on the first Sunday CHURCH If you have a hobby or just want to write on any subject that you think would interest the of each Month. Saturdays Sundays folks of Alyth, please feel free to submit to ~~~ 6.30pm 9.30am [email protected]. Please also let us Primary and Secondary Sunday School St Mary's, St Luan's, know if you would be interested in submitting meet at 11 am each Sunday. New recruits Dundee Rd. Alexandra St. a monthly article—we all appreciate the arti- are always most welcome. Alyth (Primary caters for children aged be- cles and poems from our regular contribu- tween 3 and 7 years. Secondary caters for tors. children aged between 8 and 12 years) Weekday Mass Sundays ~~~ telephone 11.00am When submitting an article, it would be a On Sunday 2nd March there will be Services 01250 872 171 St Stephen's, great help and much appreciated if articles of Communion at 11.00am and 2.30pm. or visit Bank St. submitted could be in a separate attached There will also be a Service of Thanksgiving www.ststephensblair.co.uk Blairgowrie document and in font: at 6.00pm. Main text—Arial Narrow, 10pt ~~~ Titles—Arial, 12pt and bold. The Guild will meet in the Lower Hall of the Church on Thursday 6th February and If you are able, please compress any photos Thursday 6th March , both meetings at 2 pm. so that they are suitable for documents On 6th February Sally Atkinson will be (usually up to around 300 Kb). talking about her travels in Sulawesi. ST NINIAN’S th Don’t worry if you are unable to do this for- On 6 March there will be a film show by EPISCOPAL CHURCH David Cowie. matting—it would just be appreciated from Anyone requiring transport to the Church those who can. please contact Valerie Waring on 01828 February Services: 633996 or Jane Cameron on 01828 633330 Sun 2nd11am Book of Common Prayer ~~~ Communion FAMILY HISTORY PROJECT Sun 9th 11am Sung Eucharist see ‘Local Services’ Sun 16th 11am Sung Eucharist Open Sundays 2-4pm Sun 23nd 11am Sung Eucharist (Easter till Remembrance) Tel: 01828 633 045 ALL ARE WELCOME MAILING LIST Rector: The Very Revd Kenny Rathband Our continued challenge to ensure the future of www.alythparishchurch.org.uk Tel: 01250 874 583 a free Alyth Voice, has led to implementing a Email: [email protected] charge for postal Voices. An annual charge of Diocesan Website: www.standrews.anglican.org £21 will apply to all UK addresses for posting. Overseas addresses will be quoted individually. This APOLOGIES! charge includes the cost of produc- We apologise to our contributors for some ing the Voice. failures to publish articles and notices that To get your Voice by post, send to Mike Kay, 15 were sent to us for December 2013's Airlie Street, Alyth, PH11 8AH. Voice. We are trying to resolve whatever it We have many members linked to the Voice was that led to these lapses and hope to Facebook page, with 1,000s more viewing the resume normal service. Please continue CLASS REUNION – CALLING page every week. Have you visited yet? Re- member you don’t need to join Facebook, just to let us know if you are having any issues ALL EX ALYTH PRIMARY/HIGH follow the link on the Voice website. with your article submissions. PUPILS BORN IN 1964 The main advantage of having a

Facebook presence is the real-time The lapses highlight our need for volun- We’re looking to arrange a class reun- ability to circulate information in- teers to help with the production of the ion in September 2014 for all ex pupils stantly. It’s worth a look... Voice. born in 1964, who went to either Alyth DONATIONS Primary School or Alyth High School. Thank you to everyone who has donated recent- The Editorial Team . ly to the Voice. It is much appreciated and helps If you’re reaching the big 50 next year ensure the Voice remains free to every house- and would like to celebrate with your hold. There are 3 ways to donate: classmates, please 1. Collection Tins in shops, MORE APOLOGIES! email [email protected] to Apologies re the December 2013 article on 2. Handed/Posted to our Treasurer, let us know if you’re interested in 3. Online at www.alythvoice.co.uk using the Queen’s award for Voluntary Service; coming along. Please spread the The paragraphs on page 2 appeared out the secure word! PayPal system. of order so the article was not printed ex- Bill Brewster actly as written. Please support your Voice today.

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Local Groups

Soft Ball Tennis Alyth Art Group ALYTH HEALTH CENTRE

Each Thursday morning, 10.30am, - Meet every Tuesday 10am -12 The below dates are confirmed as 11.30am, in Airlie Street Hall. Cost is noon the Alyth Health Centres Public £2.00. Come and enjoy. Looking in the Art Room at the Holidays: forward to seeing new members. Community Wing, St Andrews

Street. Monday 7th April 2014 For more details call Monday 21st April 2014 01828 627 509 Monday 5th May 2014 Monday 26th May 2014 Monday 28th July 2014 Monday 13th October 2014 Thursday 25th December 2014 Friday 26th December 2014 ARE YOU A MEMBER OF A Thursday 1st January 2015 LOCAL GROUP? Friday 2nd January 2015 Send an advert for your group to [email protected] to raise awareness and attract new members! No charge . . . Meigle Art Group We have had to relocate from

Meigle Guide hut as the hut is no longer in use.

Alyth Scout Group has agreed to give us space. Alyth Youth Partnership, Alyth Community Wing, Albert Street, ALYTH, PH11 8AX The Group meets on Tuesday Phone: 01250871350 Email: [email protected] mornings from 10am 12pm and Registered Scottish Charity: SC 027023 would welcome new members. Equipment can be provided for starters.

Contact 633811 for further details Alyth youth partnership (SCIO) Alyth Youth Partnership SCIO provides positive diversionary activities for young people in Alyth and the surrounding area. We also provide volunteering opportunities within the committee and clubs. AYP is a charitable organization run by local people for local EASSIE HALL people. REGULAR ACTIVITIES Monday 6.30pm-8.00pm Youth Club 1 Alyth Community Wing WEEKLY 10yrs-S1 Monday Yoga 6-8pm.

Contact : Jane Brewster 01307 840313 Tuesday 6.30pm-8.30pm Youth Club 2 The Hub, Airlie Street Tuesday Zumba 7-8pm. Contact: Debra Ritchie 01307 840596 S2-15yrs

Wednesday Yoga 1-3pm. Thursday 2.00pm-5.00pm Job Busters The Hub, Airlie Street Contact : Jane Brewster 01307 840313 Thursday Social Dancing 7.30-10pm. 15yrs-25yrs

Contact : Ann Martin 01575 560783 FORTNIGHTLY EVENTS Thursday 7.00pm-9.00pm Music Group Alyth Community Wing 12yrs-25yrs Art Club 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month,

10am until noon. Contact : Linda Breckenridge 01307 840323 Mon-Fri 4.00pm-9.00pm The Hub drop-in The Hub, Airlie Street (4-5pm 12-25yrs) MONTHLY EVENTS 15yrs-25yrs Eassie & Nevay WRI Meeting 1st Wednesday: 7.30pm in the Hall. If you are interested in finding out more about the clubs, holiday programmes or volun- Contact: Mary Marshall 01307 840415 teering then please contact the AYP Youth Workers for more information:

Watch this space for forthcoming events or [email protected] 07591126986 go to www.eassieandnevay.org , follow us

on the ENKCA twitter feed, find us on Face- Alyth youth partnership book. Get involved in our community!

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Local Groups

ALYTH MOTHER & TODDLERS Alyth Senior Citizens' Lunch & Meet in the Ogilvie Rooms on Mondays, Humpty Dumpty Socialising Club Tuesdays and Fridays 10am – 11:30am (Perth & Kinross Healthy Communities Project) Early Years Care Tel Jackie Doe 01738 473146 £1 per child. To arrange a visit or add New Members & Volunteers Most We meet during the school your child’s name to the waiting list, Welcome holidays (including the Summer!) phone Karen on 07984647659 Drinks and snacks provided Exercise Group at 10.30 in the Airlie Street New mums (and dads) welcome Offering play sessions for children age 2 Hall bring your wee ones and have a to 4 on Tuesday & Thursday mornings (£2.00 per week or pay Once a Month at a play & chat! 9.15 to 11.45 am in Alyth community Reduced Rate) Every Monday until 1 Dec 2014 (Except Contact Claire 07784950333 or Jo: wing. 30 June). 07932974212 for more information. Lunch at 12.30 in the Airlie Street Hall ALYTH SCOTTISH COUNTRY (£2.00 per person) DANCE GROUP 10 and 24 Feb, 17 and 31 March, 28 [email protected] April, 26 May. Would you like a lift to the Lunch Club? Classes take place in Airlie Street Hall on Tel 632157 Thursday evenings from 7.30 - 9.30pm Coffee Morning (Exercise Group) 10.00hrs Airlie Street Beginners welcome to this well established Hall (80p pp) friendly group 22 February. An easy way to keep active and to exercise both body and mind For further information contact Secretary Angela Meachen - 01828 632532 / NEW COMMUNICANTS 07772016827 Scottish Charity No. SC023682 The group operates out of Alyth Primary If you would like to become a mem- School and offers care for school age ber of Alyth Parish Church, please Strathmore National Childbirth Trust; contact the Rev. Mike Erskine on children between the hours of 8am and 9am (Breakfast Club) and 3.15pm and Covering Forfar to Blairgowrie and 01828 632 238 or email [email protected] 6pm. For more information or to arrange everywhere in between. If you have just a visit please contact 07718573511 or e- had a baby, are due to have one soon, or already have young children then come mail [email protected]. along and meet some others for a coffee and a chat. We meet in Alyth Town Hall every Monday 10am til 12 noon and host bumps and babies every 1st Friday of the ALYTH & DISTRICT PIPE month at different locations. PAND Alyth Christmas Lights new members are always welcome 200 Club Telephone: 0844 243 6285 or email for Tuesdays – Town Hall, Alyth details – [email protected] Beginners 6pm and Players 7pm Wednesdays – British Legion, Blairgowrie December Draw Players 7pm (Thanks to Claire and Morag at For info email Lunan's) STRIDE FOR LIFE [email protected] 1st - £50 - 129 - Mrs M Russell ALYTH GROUP 2nd - £30 - 168 - Mr D McKenzie 3rd - £20 - 12 - Mrs B Halliburton Stride for Life is a walking project providing FREE led walks for individuals in their com- Alyth Badminton Club munity. The group meets on a Tuesday at January Draw 1.30pm at The Airlie Street Hall. Our walks Interested in Playing Badminton? Either to (Thanks to Irene Fordyce at The last approximately 45-50 minutes. Walking improve your game or just for a bit of exer- Burnside Inn) is a great way to keep active and make you cise, then why not come along to the Airlie 1st - £50 - 72 - Mrs M McCowan feel better. We think it's much more fun street hall on Tuesdays at 7.30pm. (Term 2nd - £30 - 91- Mrs S Warner walking in a group and enjoying a good old started 3rd of September) blether! On average we have about twelve 3rd - £20 - 159 - Mrs C Spence walkers so why not come and join Membership £15.00 us. There is no need to book, just turn up Nightly Fees £3.00 on the day!

Mary Hogg (Walk Leader) 01828 633 505 New members welcome unfortunately at this moment in time over 18’s only.

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J. & M. KAY RENDEZVOUS SHEAR SUCCESS **HAIRDRESSER** 12 Airlie Street Alyth Ladies & Gents Hairdressers 01828 633234 13 Airlie Street, 59 Airlie Street, Alyth. Opening hours: Tel: 632097 Monday & Wednesday - Closed ALYTH. Tuesday – 1.30 - 5.30pm

Telephone 01828 632252 Open Tues - Sat Thursday 9 -5 Friday 9 - 5.30 Saturday 9 - 1 Gift Vouchers Available

Clinical Aromatherapist Liz Jenkins—mifpa

Uses therapeutic massage and essential oils to improve and maintain health. Unit 2 Welton Business Park, Welton Road, Blairgowrie, PH10 6HE Conditions which may benefit from aromatherapy: 01250 874227/07801 676343 Back/neck/muscle pain Suppliers of milk, cheese, butter, cream, eggs, Rheumatism and arthritis yoghurts, rolls, & many other dairy products to Cherrybank I Leitfie Terrace Sleep disorders Private Houses, Hotels, New Alyth I PH11 8NF Constipation Restaurant, schools, Nursing Homes, etc. in Headaches Alyth, Blairgowrie, Coupar Angus, , www.amandablakeman.com Stress related illness Woodside, Meigle, Newtyle and Auchterhouse Online Accounting Service ….and much more

 24/7 access to your accounts, safe, For more information or to book an appointment reliable and fast. Tel 01828 632141 Full Bookkeeping, VAT and Payroll Services Saturday 1st of March  Self assessment, management and I&D Insurance Services year end accounts. Your local Insurance Experts can save you money. Indoor Boot and Whether it be Motor, Home or Commercial we have the  Computerised or Manual. right policy to fit your needs at the right price and be  SAGE training and business Craft Sale there when you need us most. start-up. Come and speak with Wilma Iain or Dawn £10 per table  Free initial consultation. 10am - 3pm Tel: 01828 633553 Alyth Golf Club ALL WELCOME The Friendly Faces of Insurance Your local broker serving your local community Enquiries to Yvonne

16 Airlie Street Alyth 01828 633000 01828 632268 Ext 3 Email: [email protected]

farah adams – solicitor & notary public Hodge “a refreshing approach”

Solicitors LLP  wills & executries  employment law

 property law  licensing law

For Wills  dispute resolution  mediation

 legal advice for Tourism Industry

01250 874441 call: t. 01250 874 485 28 Wellmeadow, m. 07719 855856 for a free consultation e-mail: [email protected]. Blairgowrie. www.adams-law.co.uk

JOHN SWINNEY Your local Member of the Scottish Parliament for Perthshire North is here to help you. You can contact John at 35 Perth Street, Blairgowrie, PH10 6DL Tel. 01250 876576 Fax. 01250 876991 email [email protected]

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www.resoluteit.co.uk

Simon Bogle LAPTOP & PC REPAIR SERVICES FOR HOME & SMALL BUSINESS USERS Technical Support Services Repairs - Maintenance - Upgrades - Broadband Setup New & Used Computer Sales - Tuition - Web Design Tel: 01575 560466 Mob: 07732 524139 Mrs Susan Marsh (Cert Ed) Looking to buy a new computer? Cherrybank, Lands of Loyal Want advice on purchasing or developing www.airliecomputers.co.uk your Business I.T. Infrastructure? Tel: 01828 633501 9.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Sunday Struggling with a slow laptop or PC? Covering the Perthshire & Angus areas of Scotland Tired of Call Centres / going back to the store?

We Offer Home & Office Visits! (**Discount Available for Senior Citizens**)

JIM MORRICE Resolute I.T. provide a wide range of computer services including: Repairs & Upgrades; Virus & Spyware Removal; Saxophone, Flute and Network Solutions & Broadband Support Clarinet Tuition E: [email protected] Based in - Meigle - Tel:01828 633 137 M: 07961 879239

Beginners Welcome!

Solutions

NOW UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

LEISUREWEAR-WORKWEAR- SPORTSWEAR-CORPORATEWEAR

No minimum quality - No set up PETS PANTRY charges

Contact Mike and together we’ll design your choice of words, images & logo. 19 High Street, Blairgowrie

Tel: 01250 870772 Solutions Keith Nicol 17 Airlie Street, Alyth, PH1 8AH - tel: 01828 633065 email:[email protected] www.alythsolutions.co.uk

GRANGEMOUNT CATTERY Aberbothrie, Alyth SPECIAL DIETS CATERED FOR

INDIVIDUAL HEATED CHALETS The Home Straight Set in the quiet rural setting of beautiful Strathmore Moving, Downsizing & Aging in Place PERSONAL ATTENTION Solutions for older people FROM THE OWNERS DENNIS & LIBBY MELLOY As we grow older, making a decision Tel: 01828 632284 about where to live is stressful. We can help you, whether you want to stay where Specialised Dementia Care you are, or, move and downsize to a in a Domestic Setting smaller property, sheltered housing, residential care or nursing home.

·DAY CARE We can advise on adaptations to your David Scott Ltd ·RESPITE CARE current home so that you can continue to FUNERAL DIRECTORS ·RESIDENTIAL CARE live there safely and independently and & MONUMENT AGENTS we can support you through the entire

Also Golden Charter Pre-Paid Funeral Plans All bedrooms en-suite: Beautiful Enclosed Gardens : process of moving and downsizing. Home Cooking & Baking with Choice of Menu: 7 Toutie Street Alyth Trained Staff to promote independence and choice. Find out more at Call for appointment www.thehomestraight.org.uk www.hopeparkhouse.com Our staff are happy to assist with all enquiries Or email us at: A 24 hour service is maintained on Tel 01250 872349 [email protected] 01828 633 433 Balmoral Road, Rattray, Blairgowrie Or call us on 07840 544420

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DIRLIEBANE COFFEE SHOP THE ALYTH BAKEHOUSE Registered childminder THE ONLY FULLY SCRATCH Delicious home baking, PRODUCING BAKERY IN ALYTH IS Now has full and part coffees, speciality teas, etc NOW OPEN PLAN !!!! time vacancies Come and see our products being produced Summer opening hours from and smell the baking aroma. 1st April ALL OUR ROLLS, BREAD, PIES, Tel: Alyth 633744 SAUSAGE ROLLS, PUFF MINCE Mon - Fri - 9.00am - 5.00p BRIDIES & 98% of CAKES ARE MADE or 07743628785 Sat - 10.00am - 5.00pm FROM SCRATCH IN OUR INSTORE Sun - 11.00am - 4.30pm BAKERY- help us maintain this unique service to Alyth by shopping locally. Standard & special lunch Hot & Cold Filled Rolls always available. Homemade Soup, Homemade Stovies, menus available daily. Food Homemade Macaroni all ready from Losset Inn served all day. Take out menu 1030 a.m. also available We will always have at least 2 special offers on per week to save you money. Check our Tel 01828 634153 Enquiries to Alison or George window board. NEW CONCEPT ARRIVING INSTORE ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 01828 633644 EARLY SPRING FRESHLY MADE ITALIAN AND BRITISH FOOD ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Breakfast * Lunch * Snacks * Remember jumping in puddles, build- PIZZA Homemade cakes and scones ing dens, getting lost for hours in a EAT IN OR TAKEAWAY * THREE COURSE MEALS timeless world of mud and sticks? THE ORIGINAL & AVAILABLE FROM OUR SPECIALS THE BEST IN ALYTH BOARD – CHANGES DAILY Wild Sparks provides local children ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ALL FRESHLY COOKED TO ORDER with adventurous play experiences in * nature. OUTSIDE CATERING ‘CARDEANS CORNER’ LOCAL JAMS, CHUTNEYS, BOOKING NOW: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ BISCUITS, TEAS February mid-term play scheme B&B, EN SUITE LET US CREATE A GIFT HAMPER for 5-12 year olds ESPECIALLY FOR YOU ACCOMMODATION * Coming soon… After School Care & Wee Wild Sparks for toddlers. Open 10am-4.30pm pm daily Tuesday - Sunday For more information: Free wi-fi Closed Monday www.wildsparks.co.uk (Please note Winter Hours) Tel: 01828 632 942

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Book now on: Tel/Fax 01828 640740 COSY LOUNGE & Email: [email protected] www.cardeans.net LOG FIRE FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AT REAL ALES CARDEANS.OF.MEIGLE THE ALYTH TRADITIONAL FISH BAR

NEW TEL: 01828 634165

TAROT DAVIDSONS CHEMIST & COLOUR READINGS Telephone Orders Welcome 9 Airlie St, Alyth

Each unique reading combines Tel 01828 632302 See full menu instore

the elements and meaning of

colour with the ancient wisdom New Range of Jewellery of your chosen tarot deck cards. Opening Hours:

PRESCRIPTIONS DISPENSED Workshops, individual and group sessions are available daytime Mon - Thurs 4.30pm - 9.30pm Minor ailment service and advice and evenings at always available from your Fri - Sat 4.30pm - 10pm Rainbow Therapies. local pharmacist Tel. LYNDA on 07970794284 Sunday 4.30pm - 9.00pm

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Local Services and Appeals

RECYCLE AND HELP Freephone 24hr Dementia Helpline ALYTH VOICE NEEDS tel: 0808 808 3000 YOU!! Alyth and District branch Alyth Voice urgently needs www.alzscot.org of Alzheimer Scotland “Reserve Voiceteers” to cover for sick- meet on the first Mon- ness/holidays or to take on a round when day of the month in the lounge of Burnside next available. Please contact Barbara or A large box from Childline and NSPCC charities is placed at the reception of the Alyth Health Paul Prettyman [email protected] Centre for WRVS to be placed in the system.  recycling inkjet cartridges  toner cartridges Books on Wheels  mobile phones  hand held games Can’t get to the library? consoles We deliver books to your door...  digital cameras Books – in normal or large print / STRATHMORE DEMENTIA  MP3 Players Audio Books – cassette player INFORMATION CAFE  satellite navigation Units req. / Music CDs and Videos This drop-in café has information stalls to browse and time to chat over  Used spectacles (in aid of Vision 2020) Telephone 01250 872 905 for a cup of tea/coffee with other people Please bring any of these items to the Health Centre details with dementia, family members and for recycling & help these charities. carers. The café is held on the last Tues- day of the month in St Catharine’s Alyth Library Church Hall, George St, Blairgowrie Calling all Alyth Voluntary Groups PH10 6EY, from 10am-12 noon There will be speakers to give a and Clubs short talk on alternate months and on Home-Start Perth is a voluntary Promote your organisation in Alyth Library organisation which supports the other months, complimentary ther- Display space is available in the library win- apies and hand massages. See local Families with young children dows throughout Perth and Kinross. press for details. Call in at the Library for more information Staff from the Strathmore Dementia Our trained volunteers, who all Or call 01828 632731 have parenting experience, Service will also be available every will visit a family in their own month to offer free, confidential home offering practical and emotional memory tests. No need to book, just Support. Volunteering for Home-Start Perth can come along. be very rewarding. We are always looking for For further information, please con- new volunteers. We are also keen to encourage tact Strathmore Day Opportunities on new Trustees to Home-Start Perth. If you feel 01250 871938 or Fiona Matthews, you have skills which could benefit the Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Advisor organisation, please get in touch for an informal on 01738 562358 chat in the first instance with Susan on 01738 We look forward to seeing you 638847. Visit www.homestartperth.org.uk or there. email us on [email protected].

Closed from October until next May ARTICLES AND DATES FOR A Family EVENTS IN THE L Alyth Library (for FREE internet access & advice VOICE Y History on tracing your ancestors) T If you have Events that are due in the Monday 10-12.30, 2-4 first week of the month, please consid- H Project Tuesday 10-12.30, 6-8 er putting an advert for the event into Wednesday/Sunday Closed the Voice the month before the event. Thursday 2-4, 6-8 Friday 2-4 We cannot guarantee that the Voice Enquiries over winter by e-mail only to: Saturday 9.30-12.30 will be delivered by the first of each [email protected]

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Alyth Halls Committee News

The local committee are responsible for the management of the Town Hall and the Ogilvy Rooms under an agreement with Perth and Kinross Council. David McLaren our fabric convenor has been extremely busy over recent months:- - The repairs to the Town Hall tower are ongoing and will take some time. - The seriously wet weather resulted in the appearance of various leaks, in both halls and they have now been dealt with. - New environmentally friendly lights in the main hall of the Town Hall are being installed. - A new alarm system is being installed in the Town Hall. This work will take place from 17th February and 21st March.. It is hoped that there will be minimal disruption to the hall users, but we will try to keep the individual user groups informed. - It is intended to install new double glazing throughout the Town Hall in 2014.

Our Chair/Treasurer does a sterling job ensuring that our financial management is first rate. Jessie spends a considerable amount of time liaising with OSCAR (the charities body), grant providers, hall users and our accountant. We are currently looking into our waste disposal procedures to ensure that we comply with the new legislation. Thanks to all hall users for ensuring that our venues are well used. We have had a couple of issues with one or two hall user groups over- running their sessions and causing a bit of a problem for the next group. It would be appreciated if hall users finished their sessions on time. Sandy McCurdy Secretary email: [email protected] phone: 0182863 2744

Perth & Kinross Council PR 7661

Writer in residence opportunity for Blairgowrie

As part of a partnership between BOOKMARK (Blairgowrie, Rattray and The Glens) book festival and Perth and Kinross Place Partnership, a six-month, part-time writer-in-residence opportunity is now open for applications. The position would be based in Blairgowrie, Perthshire and would begin in April 2014. The writer-in-residence will bring an extra dimension to the preparations for the 2014 BOOKMARK festival (held for the first time in 2013) and will assist the local community to develop new works of creative writing. This will see the successful appointee working with local community groups and schools to support and promote creative writ- ing activity, including the production of new work to be read aloud in October at the 2014 BOOKMARK festival and also be displayed as part of an exhibition in Perth Museum and Art Gallery. The writer-in-residence will also be expected to offer information and support to individuals interested in developing their crea- tive writing talents; contribute to the further development of BOOKMARK; and work on their own project, whether current or new, in any genre of writing. Applicants must be published authors who have previous experience of leading creative writing activities with children, young people and adults. Any local writers who are interested in finding out more about this exciting position should please contact Culture Projects Co- ordinator Sara Ann Kelly by calling 01738 477037 or emailing [email protected]

The closing date for applications is Saturday 22 February 2014.

Can you identify the local landmark from this cut up photo?

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FAMILY PACK 20% OFF Burnside Inn Open Daily from 11am. TOP QUALITY PRODUCE AT AN Reach AFFORDABLE PRICE

Sunday Brunch 11-1pm. FEED A FAMILY OF 6 THREE TIMES FOR ONLY £4.83 PER MEAL everyone in Free Wifi. 1 1/2 LBS LEAN STEAK MINCE Weekend Entertainment. 1 1/2 LBS BEEF OR PORK SAUSAGES the 6 GOLD AWARD WINNING BEEF BURGERS

Self Catering Accommodation. ALL FOR ONLY £14.50 - A SAVING OF £3.50 local Beer Garden. LOCALLY SOURCED MEAT FULL TRACEABILITY BACK TO THE FARM Children Welcome. community. SHOP WITH CONFIDENCE AT 2012 EAST OF SCOTLAND SAUSAGE CHAMPIONS Burnside Inn Mill Street, Alyth JAMES PIRIE & SON, 39 CHURCH ST. NEWTYLE PH12 8TZ TEL. 01828 650301 01828 633356 We will be pleased to “meat” you!! Place an [email protected] Advert in the PAUL’S SPAR STORE CONVENIENCE & OFF LICENCE Alyth Voice!

10 Commercial Street Alyth

NEW LOTTERY TERMINAL NOW INSTORE LUNANS NEWSAGENTS

NEWSPAPERS * GROCERIES* CARDS * BEERS 8-10 Airlie Street Tel: 01828 632330 WINES & SPIRTS *MOBILE TOP UPS*GAS/ ELECTRIC/ TV LICENCE /ETC PAYMENT FACILITY AVAILABLE *Opening Times*

CREDIT & DEBIT CARDS WELCOME WITH Open 5.30am - 5pm Mon - Fri CASHBACK ALSO AVAILABLE Wednesday close at 1.30pm Opening times 5.30am - 2pm Sat 7am - 12.30pm Sunday Mon-sat 6.00am-9.00pm, Deliveries locally and Glenisla Sun 7.00am-9.00pm

Tele 01828-632321 NOW DOING: Morning Rolls, Filled Rolls, Pies, Sausage Rolls, Pasties, etc

73-75 Airlie St. . Alyth Now Stocking:

Local Hero by Martin Mackay. Shaping Up…? LICENSED GROCER A History of Blairgowrie Juniors.

• DVD Hire • Lotto Outlet • Shoe Repair • Sheila Stewart - Pilgrims of the Mist Lose 7 – 10 Pounds • Irvine’s Butcher Meat • Photocopier • In Just 9 Days!! • Mobile Top-up • Laundry •

FREE HOME DELIVERY! We Will Show You a Healthy OPEN: 8am - 10pm Mon - Sat 8am - 8pm Sunday and Balanced

Tel No: 01828 632306 SALE OF ALYTH SCENES way to Lose POSTCARDS, CARDS & CALENDARS Weight…! at DUNIRA, ST NINIANS ROAD and also at Call Janette on 01828 640633 THE POST OFFICE DENNIS MELLOY ------I can also simulate your photos into Oil Too much month at Local Councillor Strathmore Ward and Watercolour Prints using Computer the end of the Software Surgery on 1st Monday of the month ------money…?? in the Alyth Town Hall A percentage from the sale of the cards ( Old Council Chambers) at 6.30pm & calendars will go to Wisecraft, the Would an extra mental health craft project in £300 - £500 per Contact details & for arranging Blairgowrie. home visits. ------month working part- Bus Pass and Car Licence Photographs time with flexible Mobile no: 07786674776 Only two needed, £1 each hours appeal to you? or P & K Council on 01738 475034 Phone Listed Number or at home on 01828 632284 TEL: 01828 632434 or by email at [email protected] www.frogpublications.co.uk Call Janette on 01828 640633

23

J & J Howe 30 Reform St. Blairgowrie

Open Monday - Friday 8 - 5 Saturday 9 - 1 Still continuing our high quality

REMOVALS and STORAGE

Complete removal service Local and Long distance Specialist to the Islands Large containerized storage warehouse Get free quote for your removal

AUCTIONS and VALUATIONS

Auction sale on Mondays 6pm Goods on view from 2pm day of sale Also Saturday 2 - 4 Office open Tues and Wed 8.30 - 4

See weekly list and auction dates on line

INTERIOR SHOP NOW OPEN

Selling carpets, cushionfloor, blinds and curtains with a measuring, estimate and fitting service. Samples to take home and check the colours in your room.

For further details of all these services phone 01250 872 361 or email [email protected] www.jjhowe.co.uk Glenisla Golf Course 01828 632445

New Catering Manager

As of 1st March 2014, Mark Whiting will be running the restaurant at Glenisla Golf Course.

New menu and extended hours. Sunday carvery .. and weekend specials. Also look out for Mothers day, special menu in place.

Full menu available from breakfast through to evening meals.

If you are looking to have a function, all types can be catered for, Please contact Mark for more information.

The restaurant is open to the public and Mark looks forward to welcoming customers old and new.

Please watch out for special offers on the Glenisla Golf course website.

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25

BATS AND ICE HOUSES

The telephone rang. Nobody else answered, so I picked up the receiver. After introducing himself my caller told me that he was interested in ice houses and how to make them better places for bats to live in. We agreed to meet and arranged a date for a visit.

Ice houses were a feature of country houses, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries. Their purpose was to supply the inhabitants of the nearby mansion with cold storage, especially during the summer. Most ice houses were built at a time when winters were colder and ice readily available from ponds and lochs.

This period, known to historians as the Little Ice Age, lasted from the middle of the sixteenth century through to the early nineteenth century. During that time water bodies froze over much more often and for longer, and small glaciers may have existed in the Cairngorms (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-25824673).

The ice house at Bamff is a cylinder shaped pit, dug deep into the ground. It has a domed roof, at the top of which is a sky-light, which is closed by a slab of stone. Ice was shovelled through this hatch. Access to the ice house is gained through a tunnel in its side and a flight of steps leading down to the floor of the building.

Ice was cut and carted to estates’ ice houses from nearby ponds and lochans and packed in there. The invention and spread of railways meant that ice could be brought up from seaports, such as Dundee, to which it had been shipped from Norway. Eventually, the invention of the first refrigerators brought obsolescence and abandonment to ice hous- es, leaving them vacant and ready for bats to occupy.

Buildings have become increasingly important to bats as their natural habitat has diminished. Deforestation, the cut- ting down of large old trees, the removal of standing dead trees have led to a decline in the availability of places for bats to live. For a long time buildings and ruins have made up for the loss of natural habitat, but modern buildings (agricultural and otherwise) are much less favourable than the old places because there are fewer nooks and cran- nies in them where birds and bats may dwell. Inevitably, agricultural change has been bad for bats: monocultures of crop, maintained by herbicides, fungicides and insecticides have all had their effect in reducing the diversity and num- bers of insects available for them to eat.

All eight species of bat that breed in Scotland depend on insects. The common pipistrelle is known to consume as many as 3,000 midges in an evening, while a colony of two hundred may consume almost 200 million in one year - which gives you some idea of the value of these creatures to humans (http://www.echoesecology.co.uk/documents/ AnIntroductionToTheBatsofScotlandEdition1Dec2006_002.pdf).

On the day we had arranged, the door bell rang and there stood Maurice Webber, a Cambridgeshire man, with a house near Reswallie and a consuming interest in the preservation of ice houses for bats (www.conservationconstructions.co.uk/bat-boxes).

We walked to the ice house and while on our way he told me a little about the biology of bats - how they mate in the late summer or early autumn, but the sperm stays in the oviducts, or the womb, of the female until spring the follow- ing year. Even then, after fertilisation of the egg, if the season is unfavourable, the embryo may be resorbed into lin- ing of the womb. All being well, however, pregnant females get together in a maternity colony and give birth to their pups together. Because the mating season is short female bats tend to give birth during a short period of time: rather like a well managed lambing among sheep, but without human intervention. Most bats give birth to only one pup in a season.

By the time Maurice had told me these interesting things we had reached the Ice House. We looked into the dark tun- nel. He pointed out that there had been three doors once, but that they had all disappeared over time. We made our way in and Maurice climbed down the stone steps that led to the floor, about twenty feet below. I watched from above as he examined the slab strewn floor and looked to see if there were any signs of bats in the cracks in the masonry. After a while spent examining the walls and looking up at the domed ceiling with his powerful head torch, Maurice professed himself satisfied and climbed back up the steps to the entrance passage.

We walked back to the house. On our way I learned that the only species of bat in Scotland that is affected at all by rabies is Daubenton’s bat and that this is very rare. Mr Macrae, who died of rabies in Angus some years ago after being bitten by a bat, was very unlucky. I also learned that the brown long-eared bat that I found in a bedroom here many years ago prefers large old houses, set in parkland.

Maurice Webber and I bade each other good-bye, expressing the hope that he would return in the Spring.

Paul Ramsay

26

Perth & Kinross Council PR 7620

Pick up a bargain at the Library Book Sale

Another chance to pick up some bargain reading, watching or listening material is coming up in February 2014 with the next library sale of withdrawn stock at the AK Bell Library in Perth.

From 9.30am to 2pm on Saturday 22nd February, in the Sandeman and MacKenzie meeting rooms at the library, there will be lots to choose from, with books, audio books, CDs and DVDs of all types and for all ages.

Why not replenish your home library ahead of the spring with books on gardening, or pick up some travel books for ideas on next year's holiday destinations?

Prices will range from 50p to just a few pounds, and the entry fee is just £1 per family on the day! All are welcome.

27

SC AUTO SERVICES

Victoria Street, Alyth 64 High Street Blairgowrie 01828 633660 PH10 6DF

ALL CARS, VANS AND 4X4’S WELCOME “Your local dental professionals”

SERVICING ● MOT PREP ● New NHS & private patients welcome MECHANICAL REPAIRS  NHS & Private Options  Preventative care TIMING BELTS ● WELDING ● BRAKES ●  Cosmetic Dentistry  Smile Enhancement CLUTCHES  Tooth Whitening  Dental Hygienist

 Dental Implants -  Anti-snoring Devices ELECTRICAL REPAIRS ● to replace missing teeth  Disabled Access TOWBARS SUPPLIED & FITTED to secure loose dentures

FULL DIAGNOSTIC SERVICE INCLUDING KEY AND IMMOBILISER PROGRAMMING Look as young as you feel with Non-Surgical ABS FAULTS, AIRBAG FAULTS, ENGINE FAULTS Facial rejuvenation treatments ANY LIGHT ON YOUR DASHBOARD WE CAN HELP (Botulinum Toxin (botox) and Derma Fillers)

Fed up of underarm sweating? We can prevent this using botulinum toxin

For more information contact the practice

scautoservices.org.uk t: 01250 875136 e: [email protected] ALL MAJOR CREDIT AND DEBIT CARDS ACCEPTED www.blairgowriedentalcare.co.uk

Northlands Nursing Home

Market Square, Alyth, Perthshire, PH11 8AA Tel.: 01828 632309 Fax: 01828 632609

FAMILY OWNED - “WE REALLY CARE” AUTUMN HAS ARRIVED  Highly qualified stable staff team & we have a large range of fire side  2 registered nurses on duty 24 hrs a day Products including  Home cooked choice of meals Bottom Grates, Companion Sets, Fire  Secure gardens Guards & Cool Hoods as well as  Some fully funded places available Hardwood Logs by the bag or trailer load Una Tennant (RGN Manager) on Household Coal by the bag with discount 01250 876790 for further information on 1 tonne Burning Peat & kindling

or to arrange a visit. Agents for Stihl Power tools Garden Care & 5 Tonne Log Splitters

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Top O’ Toon ALYTH SCOUT NEWS

It’s Christmas Eve & eh’ve had a braw weekend The Cubs held their annual camp at Tannadice to which Patrick and Cameron wi’ grandsons Fraser & Callum & their Dad Bob. took a patrol of Scouts. Having been invited for my evening meal I was initial- Fraser reading Law at Birmingham University & ly astonished at the quantity of food the Scouts had prepared, but there Callum his commercial pilots licence - Guid lads – again, it came as no surprise when the meal was served the Scouts polished maybe a wee bit o’ their Scots Granny some- it off and went back for seconds until the only danger was to the bottom of the where? pot. Patrick has taken our gas ovens and for the desert we were spoilt by

apple crumble which the Scouts had made from scratch. I fear there were no Had a phone call frae Vancouver frae Maggie frae Hungary. Met her way back when in Canada tae extras to be passed round after the Scouts had descended upon the dixies, a spread my brither’s ashes on Rockies. Anither church mouse would have starved on what was left! It was unfortunate that facet in my long life. Dae ye ever think ye’ve lived the only booking available was the same date as Remembrance Sunday, but ower lang? Nae- ower muckle havoc tae wreak the act of remembrance held at camp was none the less sincere and a fitting syne! tribute. The remainder of the Scout Group joined the community at the church service. Well done to all the Cubs, their helpers and Leaders for such an en- E’ve already packed 3 life times intae meh ane. joyable weekend Even remember Glasgow’s Ballahouston Park aboot 1937 for the Empire Exhibition - saw meh What a year that was. 2013 was our centenary year and we rounded off the first Mounties – aye eh’m fairly antique, but nae a celebrations with a concert in the Town Hall. The order of the day was for National Treasure – yet. everyone involved to participate in some way or other. What we lack in highly polished talent, we more than made up for with unbridled enthusiasm which Eh luv meh tablet tae – the kind meh mither made knows no bounds. In front of a large audience the proceeding commenced Pink coconut ice & then lickin’ the condensed milk with the Beaver Section. A last minute addition to the cast in the form of Ken- tin – umpteen skelps followed – but worth it! ny Moyes suitably attired in fairy outfit will forever be etched on my memory, and if I were you Kenny I hope no-one has a photo! His towering frame far Dear Gawd, please dinnae mak’ me no weel this from putting them off seemed to hype them up even further. The Beavers week. Ambulance crew are real toffs. Nae awfie completed their turn with some comedy in the form of jokes which would have weel after falling doon the stairs. Sae this cood be kept a combine harvester busy. The Cubs then took to the stage with a musi- my last havers (hurrah?) cal extravaganza complete with “instruments” which they had made at the

Happy dugs are in Glen Prosen wi’ braw friends. Cub camp two weeks previously. Well done the Cubs and Leaders for devis- Lucky dugs! ing such a spectacle and having witnessed a previous rehearsal it was an amazing performance and the audience would have walked 5000 miles to be Friends are grand! Visiting with chat & vitals. Even there. The Scouts did a sketch illustrating the delights of a hot drink at camp John F frae Forfar wi’ a bridie tae chat aboot oor only to be made aware that socks are best not washed in the cocoa Dixie. A bawdy panto days when eh landed up as the front further song pointed out what the outcome would be if they “Were not upon stage comedienne (wonder why?) to his glorious this stage something else I’d rather be”. Following an interval, provided by our dame. Errol friends even took us tae committee members, giving the participants an opportunity to catch their Theatre – didnae think much o’ play, but fish sup- breath the evening finished with campfire songs and we took no prisoners as per efter wis tasty. this was audience participation at its best. Well done to all concerned includ- ing the members of the public who thought they had only come to watch the Didnae mak’ it tae a puckle o’ social do’s like Alyth show! Choral & George’s brass band concert & Kilry lunch party, but look forrit tae Burns Supper & And now 2014 awaits and we are getting off to a flying start. Our committee Scouts Bookfest. Must get better sune. are running a beetle drive which is as more off a community event than a fund raiser following this up with a Cheese and Wine evening on 1st Feb. The Bea- Niver kent eh kent sae mony guid fowk. Thank you vers are holding a table sale in the hut that same day from 10.00-2.00pm. Alyth & ditrict. Stupendous Christmas lichts agen The Scouts have a skiing trip organised, a wide game and an overnight camp tae. in the hut. My diary is beginning to bulge already. I can only put out the rally-

ing call that befits all Scouting activities in Alyth “Gonnae giz a han’ “ Noo, whaur else wid ye get yer mince & tatties & messages pit in the car by a guid lookin’ boss or butcher? Thank ye also fir C.Cutter’s grand deliv- Forthcoming Events ery service when housebound. 1st Feb - Beavers table Sale in Scout Hut 10.00 – 2.00 pm Enjoyed “Fantasia” on T.V.. Saw it first at the 1st Feb – Cheese and Wine night (all welcome) 7.30pm – late Gammont Cinema when 9 wi’ my big brother – 3 Feb – Committee meeting 7.00pm Scout Hut scared oot o’ meh wits then & a wee bit the nicht! 13 Feb – Bingo Tea – Town Hall 22/23 - Feb Scout Camp Crieff Eh’m glad eh DID whit eh DID whe eh DID 1st March – Scout/Explorer Scout Ski Trip II 8 March – Car Wash, at Classic Cars 10.00am -2.00pm NAE REGRETS 15 March – Quiz Night Scout Hut Josie Top o Toon

29

Positive Thinking For many people the winter months can be very stressful and depressing. January and February are renowned for bad weather, dark nights and money worries. So what’s the best way to stop yourself from getting down in the dumps and feeling miserable???

Positive thinking is the first step! Surround yourself with positive thoughts and ignore the negatives. There are positives to be taken from every situation – you just have to train your mind to find them.

It’s all about choice. Having a positive or negative outlook is your choice. You can choose to think in a way that lifts your mood, brightens your day, and brings a more hopeful approach to the things you do. By choosing to take a positive outlook on life, you can shift out of a negative mindset and see life as filled with possibilities and solutions instead of worries, obstacles and stresses.

Remember that each day you have somewhere in the region of 50-60,000 thoughts, and you are in control of them. Take charge of them and be led by your own positive thoughts, not other people’s negative ones. Conquer any negativity by deciding on how YOU will make a difference to YOUR life. Be answerable to yourself and no-one else and set your goals for you! Whether these goals are exercise and fitness based or business & personal – write them down and keep them visible to remain motivated. Take a look at the picture below – I think it’s a great way to stay motivated when you think problems are insurmountable.

Have a great month  Shari PT - SAS Fitness

Sports Cup rediscovered!

Our loving and beloved daughter Alice was born on 27th December 1952, but sadly died on October 22nd four years ago. She is always in our thoughts and certain events bring back the memories. One such occasion was the school sports of 1965 when Alice was 12 years old she had won nearly all the races with one more race to go. She came over and was cross with me for shouting her on. She said "You are shouting so loud your voice is louder than anyone else". I was so proud when she won the last race and the Junior Championship cup was hers. I think all of Alyth herd me shout "Alice has won". This is the cup which is featured in the picture. It is wonderful to see her name again and also the many names of girls we know so well. Well done girls! Jimmy and I would like to thank Janey for the work she has done to help us and John Lindsay for the lovely photographs.

Ishbel Dewar

NB. Thanks must also be paid to teacher Fiona Littlejohn and Janitor Dave Kean for locating the correct trophy for Mr and Mrs Dewar to view. Janey MacFarlane

Photos: © Alyth Photography Ltd.

Alyth Public School Junior Athletic Champion Cup Jimmy & Ishbel Dewar proudly hold the trophy

30

St. Valentines Day Window Competition.

Alyth & District Business Association is once more sponsoring the St. Valentines Day Window Dressing Competition. It is hoped that all busi- nesses in the town will enter. The displays over the previous sixteen years have been a wonder for all to view and I am sure this year will also be the same. “St. Valentine is the patron saint of love” and the way that the window displays in past years have expressed this has been staggering, with teddy bears holding hands, lovers on swings, lovers in cars. Couples holding hands, hearts, roses, Cupid with his bow and arrow, etc. What will appear this year? We will all just have to wait and see! The judge Mrs. Marguerite McKenzie, Alyth’s Citizen of the Year 2013 has been asked to judge the competition on either Wednesday 12th or Thursday 13th February. With this time frame shield and hopefully certificates will be presented and on display by Friday 14th of February The St. Valentine’s Window Competition Shield will be presented to the winner along with framed certificates for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places.

Michael Kay Chairman ADBA

AHUG – Community Woodland Update

It has been almost four years since AHUG ran a community consultation to see what people wanted to see developed on the community site. This consultation informed the five-year plan that we’ve been working to since then. As with all plans it’s changed a little along the way. But, along with the Forestry Commission, we have made very good progress towards achieving the original aims. The site was officially opened by John Swinney and Pete Wishart in May 2012, and we now have:

 An all-abilities access path into and through the community woodland.  Other non-surfaced paths through the site that are seeing increased use.  A large number of native trees planted across the site, which will transform the field into a woodland.  An orchard.  Play features and picnic benches alongside the access path  An orienteering course and mapping of the whole Hill of Alyth Charitable status – AHUG is now a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO).

We have run a number of events on the site including 3 Mountain Bike events. Good progress has been made with development of the planned bike tracks, reflecting the large number of requests for these in the initial consultation. We have 90% of the funding for the tracks, we are about to sign a long-term lease with the Forestry Commission, and by the time you read this we will have applied for planning permis- sion. Links to this will be posted online and a copy will go on the Alyth Square noticeboard.

We are also planning two public meetings – one on 11th March at 7.30pm (venue to be arranged) at which we hope to give an update on the plans for the bike tracks, and a second will he held (assuming the planning permission is granted) before construction starts on the tracks. The 11th March meeting will be followed by AHUG’s AGM. As with any community group we are always looking for new members and any- one who would like to join, either as an office bearer or ordinary member, will be very welcome. Ordinary AHUG meetings, usually held on the first Tuesday of the month, are open to all.

Finally, we would like to thank all our funders and the Forestry Commission for their support.

Information on AHUG can be found on our website http://ahug.org.uk/. Or if you would like more information on our activities, give me a call: Eliot Palmer, AHUG Trustee 01828633772

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Congratulations

Irene Robertson BEM BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT GALLAGHER We at the Alyth Voice would like to congratulate Irene on the award of a BEM (British Empire Medal). She has thoroughly deserved it.

Considering that she has particularly asked that we do not write a con- gratulatory article about her, that is as far as we can go, except to thank her for all her efforts in and around Alyth over the past years, especially for her work for the Alyth Voice. and to wish her all the best for the years to come.

The Editorial Team

Angela and Graham Meachen of Kelvin Grange, Alyth are delighted to announce the birth of their first grandchild Sophie Isla Gallagher born on the 24th November, 2013 at Ninewells Hospital, Dundee. Many thanks to daughter Frances and son-in-law Chris.

Mrs Susan Marsh is pleased to announce the following success in the recent examinations of Glenisla Golf Club's trophy winners for 2013 The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music: Prize giving was at our Clubhouse on Saturday 16th November. KATE MENZIES: GRADE 5 THEORY OF MUSIC: PASS WITH MERIT Back row l to r,: Colin Crighton, Peter Connelly, Donald Nairn, Euan McLaren, Mark Valentine, Neil McIntosh. Front row l to r: Frank Clark, Club Captain Craig Muir, Club Champion Sheila Fisher was presented with a token bouquet in apprecia- W.A.S Robertson, Handicap Champion Ian Fleming. tion of her Christmas Lights fund raising, many thanks Sheila.

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