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GLENKENS GAZETTE News from , , Mossdale, New and St John’s Town of Dalry

December/January 2014/15 ISSUE 85 FREE DALRY TREASURE HUNTER WITNESSES VIKING FIND A metal-detecting trip being kept secret. Stuart Campbell, head of the with friends turned into National Museum of ’s an historic occasion treasure trove unit, said: “This is a hugely significant find, for Glenkens minister, nothing like this has been found David Bartholomew in Scotland before in terms of the range of material this hoard of Dalry, when one of represents. There’s material from Ireland, from Scandinavia, his companions, Derek from various places in central McLennan, unearthed a Europe and perhaps ranging Viking treasure trove. over a couple of centuries.” The find is one of the largest Finding the Treasure - read Viking hoards ever discovered David Bartholomew’s report in this country and has excited on p7. experts worldwide. It includes a uniquely wide range of articles including gold, silver, glass, Photograph: This silver Carolingian enamel and textiles. The location pot, possibly the largest ever found, was part of the hoard. on the fringes of is Carsphairn Young Shepherds Win Awards Rebekah Trust young shepherd competition with his sister (age 14) Rebekah very close in and Reuben second. Rebekah also came Philips second in the young goat handler competition and (age 12) of third in the milking goat Carsphain competition. enjoyed the Reuben will be going on to the UK final next summer. Scottish Rebekah will be broadening Smallholder her skills and experience as and Grower she takes on the training of a working collie, alongside Festival in doing her work experience Lanark. at a large working farm. Reuben came Rebekah and Reuben first in the Rare attend Dalry School. Breeds Survival A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) ini� a� ve www.glenkensgaze� e.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 Glenkens Gazette page 3 Strong Support for Shop A proposal that the completed questionnaires. 130 already operating in Auchencairn, respondents backed the idea and Carsphairn, Palnackie and local community should 26 people offered practical help. elsewhere to learn from their buy the shop in New A steering group is now seeking experiences. Galloway has received advice and assistance from the As reported in previous Gazettes, Plunkett Foundation and the Jim and Margaret Hopkins, the substantial backing in a Community Ownership Support shop’s owners, are planning to survey of residents. Service which specialise in aiding retire and wish to sell the shop. 132 local people, over 80 community initiatives. Visits are For further information contact per cent of those surveyed, planned to community shops Helen Keron on [email protected] Watson Bird Festival Fun The Watson Bird “In generating a festival, we can however the project would like create community involvement to promote events throughout Festival, attracted as well as reach further afield the year to generate more local many visitors over to people including artists and interest and widen the audience the weekend of 19-21 scientists.” further afield, to help promote The event ran over three days the importance of Donald’s work. September. with a successful opening People flocked to visit the of the exhibition on the events on offer including an Friday evening. Saturday art exhibition with local and and Sunday were more renowned artists. Live filled with events that performances, science talks and appealed to many people - a definite favourite - a live of all ages and abilities. owl display, where people could The Raptor Science prize interact and get to know real live was well attended with owls! Dutch speakers Ben Koks The purpose of the festival and Raymond Klaassen, is to celebrate the work of promoting their Satellite Donald Watson, a keen birder tracking journal papers. and wonderful artist. Project The Watson Bird Festival Officer Lynsay Bradford said; is an annual event; Murdo and Esme enjoying the owl display. CHRISTMAS COFFEE MORNING St Margaret’s Ladies’ Guild and Town Hall from 10.30am to 12noon. Balmaclellan & Kells Guild are holding In addition to coffee, shortbread and mince pies there will be stalls, a tombola and a lucky dip. a Christmas Coffee Morning on Please come along and support this joint venture. Saturday 6 December in Joan Walker

The Galloway Raiders GLENKENS The S.R. Crockett MEDICAL PRACTICE online literary General Medical & society. Dispensing Services

Member The Surgery discounts on all High Street Crockett books New Galloway and ebooks from Ayton 01848 200257 Publishing Ltd. FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL Join now at www.gallowayraiders.co.uk 10% pensioner discount available � 01644 420234 � (membership is free) Glenkens Gazette page 2 Glenkens Gazette page 3 Sponsored by the Ken Photo of the Issue: Bridge Hotel This issue’s winner is Finlay Carson with this view over . Dave and Sue, competition judges and owners of the Ken Bridge Hotel, said: “We had so many lovely shots to choose from we just couldn’t decide this time. After much deliberating, this tranquil view over Loch Ken seemed to really stand out”. Finlay wins a meal for two at the Ken Bridge Hotel’s renowned Sunday Carvery. Abbas Rest Fundraiser Thanks A coffee morning held in Dalry in aid We were very pleased to welcome Jim Walsham, the treasurer for Abbas Rest, as well as Madge Irving, of Abbas Rest Orphanages in Malawi one of the trustees, who had recently returned from raised £672.71. a visit to the orphanages. This visit was to review We would like to thank all the people who supported how we can best develop, and continue to deliver, the us in so many ways with donations towards the support our donations provide. sales table, raffle, bottle stall, baking and money Our thanks once again, donations. We would also like to thank all the people Avril Brown and Barbara Colbenson who staffed the stalls and helped in the kitchen, waited on tables and provided transport as, without you, this would not have been possible. Support for Observatory The Knowe Bed & a fabulous new night-reflective Observatory were thrilled at my sign to help direct visitors to offer and several weeks later Breakfast, Carsphairn, the observatory from the Loch the sign is now up and directing opened for business Doon Road. It seems many of visitors perfectly and without fuss in August 2013 and their Tripadvisor reviews had to this fabulous facility.” mentioned the lack of signage On accepting the sign Mark proprietor Karen Hall and that some guests heading Gibson of Craigengillan Estates quickly noticed that to the observatory had even said: “As a registered charity got lost, making them late for much of their custom and relatively new business their session! The staff at The we are delighted to know that came from visitors one of our stated ‘Core Aims’ brought in by the Dark - re-generation of our local area - is clearly being fulfilled Sky Park. and that visitors are not only Karen said: “Over the last 14 visiting our area to attend the months I have noticed many observatory but are choosing to of our bookings have been in stay for longer. We are thrilled association with The Galloway to know that the business we Forest Dark Sky Park, which are generating is assisting other as you know is an amazing local businesses and that working addition to our already beautiful together in attracting visitors to area. Many of our guests are the area has provided tangible staying at The Knowe B&B in benefits on both sides. We are order to visit the Forest Park delighted to receive this night- and/or The Scottish Dark Sky reflective sign, donated by The Observatory near Loch Doon. Knowe B&B, and hope that we As the Observatory are charity- can continue to work closely with Karen Hall with David Warrington, run and rely on donations to Astronomer at the Scottish Dark Sky them and other local businesses support them, I offered to donate Observatory, with the new sign. in the future.” Glenkens Gazette page 4 Glenkens Gazette page 5

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EVERYTHING listed in the Glenkens Freecycle section is FREE - you just need to contact the owner and go and pick it up! If you would like to list something on this page, please get in touch with Sarah on 07727 127 997 or email [email protected] ‘Death by Diet’, no pieces missing. Council (2 or 3 drawer preferred Various Call 430218 over a 4 drawer, but any will do). Large quantity of egg boxes, only Contact: 430 255 used once. Contact: Jean on 420 372 WANTED Child’s bike seat to suit 3/4yr old. Board game - ‘Triology’ - never Hot water storage tank, tin sheets. Initially to borrow please to see if been used so all cards, discs etc in Contact: Simon on 07426 124 982 she likes it! Contact: 430 120 place. Call 430218 Filing cabinet for Dalry Community Gent’s wind-up pocket watch. Jigsaw puzzle murder mystery Contact: Jean on 420 372 Life-saving Equipment in the Glenkens Dalry Community the heart working properly again - Try and rouse them reduces the chance of survival by - Shout for help and send Council has recently 10%. Manual cardio pulmonary someone for the nearest bought a defibrillator resuscitation (CPR) can help, defibrillator but the best thing is to get to a - Listen and look for normal for the village, to add defibrillator. breathing by putting your ear over to the one currently Defibrillators are sophisticated their mouth and looking down devices that administer a towards their chest. housed in Dalry school. controlled electric shock to the - If they are not breathing, ring Carsphairn has a defibrillator heart, effectively ‘jump-starting’ 999 and request an ambulance which is kept in the village it back into normal operation. immediately. shop, and in New Galloway However, they are also extremely - Start CPR until the defibrillator the Catstrand houses one. The simple to use. Even if you have is available Galloway Activity Centre on Loch never used one, if you know - Turn the machine on. It will Ken also has one, so between where to find one in an emergency then instruct you on what to do. them these simple devices could and can turn it on it will then The most important thing is to massively increase the likelihood speak to you and direct you remember that this equipment of surviving a cardiac arrest. through all the actions you need exists and where your closest Training organised by Dalry CC to take. It is important to note one is. Access will be easy, in October was very well attended that you cannot hurt someone because time is of the essence. and delivered some simple but by mistake with a defibrillator. important messages about heart If they are unconscious but For further information, and attacks and cardiac arrests. have a healthy heart, it will not details of where the Dalry Heart attacks are serious and shock them. Community Council set will be painful but you may be able to Some tips to remember if you located, contact Andi Holmes on function through them. If you feel suspect someone has had a 430 255. There will also be more that you are having a heart attack, cardiac arrest are: training events arranged locally ring for an ambulance immediately - Check it is safe to approach - watch out for them on posters as some heart attacks culminate them (cardiac arrest can also be and Facebook. in cardiac arrest. At this point, caused by electrocution - don’t every minute of delay in getting join the casualty list)

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sponsored by Recycle Locally with Glenkens Schools DALRY: Dalry Please send any of these items School has had a into school that you would like few containers that added to the recycling bins. for the school to lose the Rag Bag Bin service so let’s make have been collecting KELLS: To enable sure we support them. if various items for Kells School to keep Gazette readers would keep the their Rag Bag Bin, bin in mind when they have any recycling. old clothes, shoes or blankets One of the containers was for which raises funds for which would otherwise go in the old spectacles. These can be the school, they need rubbish, Kells Primary would be sent via a charity for reuse by very grateful. people in need in developing to collect over 600kg countries. We are proud to of clothes each year Shed Shout-out be sending a contribution of to keep the pupose- 19 pairs off. Thank you to The Glenkens People’s Shed (see everybody that donated. built bin in the school article on back page) would like to We continue to collect batteries put a shout-out for donations of playground. hand tools - items like saws, screw and printer cartridges for 220kg was collected in recycling and are about to send September, which generated drivers, hammers, etc would be off the mobile phones that were £88 for the school, and another gratefully appreciated. Please get being collected to allow another uplift is planned for December. in touch with Brian Jones at the defibrillator to be purchased. It would be a terrible shame CatStrand (420 374). Glenkens Gazette page 6 Glenkens Gazette page 7 GOLF CLUB New Galloway Golf successful lady player whilst Alex Club finished the Long and John season in style when McQueen were the the dinner and prize pick of the gents section. The Senior presentation evening Section goes from took place at the Ken strength to strength Winners with their cups and trophies. and Terry Haine 7.30pm in the Clubhouse. Bridge Hotel. won the Alan Walker Memorial The club is always on the look The season was celebrated Shield. Alex Long also celebrated out for new members so if you by the Lady Captain and Gents being called up into the South want to get fit in 2015 then Captain presenting the cups of Scotland squad. The annual why not give us a call - 01644 and trophies to the winners. general meeting of the club takes 420737. Jeff, Marena McClymont was the most place on Thursday 4 December at Captain & Match Secretary BOWLING This year is the first time in the history of Spalding Bowling Club that husband and wife have won the Gents Champion and Ladies Champion in the same year. The champions were John and Elizabeth Peacock, with Sandie Harvie and Moira Jones as runners-up. The annual prizegiving. Eliz Peacock

Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP Solicitors and Estate Agents Selling properties across & Galloway 01556 503744 www.ggblaw.co.uk All legal advice Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie and Dumfries Glenkens Gazette page 6 Glenkens Gazette page 7 CatStrand Update

Festivities begin with doon, have a (free!) mince pie this year Miracle on 34th St and some mulled wine, and (1947) will give you that warm the fantastic Mike enjoy the music. fuzzy feeling. Share this classic Vass on 5 December Aleksander Kudijczyk will with the whole family on 19 make his third appearance at the December. for an evening of CatStrand on 14 December. He We bring in the New Year with contemporary folk will perform a solo Chopin recital. an exhibition from The Glenkens It wouldn’t be Christmas Art Workshop - come and accompanied by without a Christmas film and support this local art group and Innes Watson of see some of their brand new work. This will be the group’s The Treacherous third exhibition at the CatStrand Orchestra. and it is highly anticipated as This pair represent a new wave always (the exhibition launches of folk musicians making a stir on 8 January). in Scotland - mixing technology The CatStrand Team with trad they create a sound For full listings see brochure like no other that can be enjoyed or www.catstrand.com To by people of all ages. They will book tickets call 01644 420 perform a collection of relaxed 374. And don’t forget to ‘like’ compositions written with us on Facebook. December in mind so coorie Mike Vass CatStrand FINDING THE Youth Players TREASURE The fourth annual Youth Players’ Continued from front page...David said: “What a privilege to be there as the hoard was unearthed Panto will be Sinbad the Sailor by – first an upper decoy hoard, which in its own right Paul Reakes. was quite remarkable; and then four inches or so This promises to be a fun-packed pantomime below it the main hoard which included a large for all the family with plenty of audience Carolingian silver pot which has still to be emptied of participation and comedy moments. its contents. What is even more remarkable is that Our hero Sinbad, sets off on the good ship this find was made on the fringes of the Glenkens.” ‘Golden Hawk’ to the Island of Zalabar to The hoard also includes an early Christian silver rescue Princess Yasmin from the clutches of cross, which may have been taken by the Danish the evil magician Vazar. Despite the attempts Vikings when they plundered the monastery of of Black Hook and his nasty pirates, Sinbad Lindisfarne. tries his best to carry out his mission helped Many incredible artifacts were found, and even (and sometimes hindered) by the Captain the cloth in which the silver pot was wrapped for its and his hapless First Mate as well as the preservation was remarkable. The treasures were ship’s cook, Dame Semolina Sinbad, and her all taken up to the National Museum of Scotland in troublesome pet monkey Monty. Will Sinbad Edinburgh. It will take time however for the whole succeed in his quest? story to be told. The cast will take to the stage on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 December at 7.30pm, with an additional matinee performance on Sunday 14 at 2pm. Tickets are available from the CatStrand Box Office priced at £6 for adults and £4 for children - all three performances were virtually sold out last year so please book your tickets early to avoid disappointment. After Christmas, the company will switch their attention to the 2015 One Act Play Festival hoping to repeat their recent successes at the Stewartry round and make their fourth appearance at the West of Scotland Finals. Four arm rings and a silver ingot having just been unearthed. Glenkens Gazette page 8 Glenkens Gazette page 9 CASTLE DOUGLAS FOOD BANK It’s tough for some and Thursdays from 11am to a tin of meat or a jar of sauce? 12noon. Non-perishable items for the families these days The project runs on a ticket- Food Bank can be left in the with the cost of living based system and currently Community Shop, Dalry, at rising all the time. tickets are available via health the CatStrand, or at the local visitors and district nurses at the shops in Dalry, New Galloway, It is with this in mind that I Garden Hill Medical Centre. They Balmaclellan and Carsphairn; invite you to consider supporting may also be available through also at local churches at the Helping Hands Food Bank in the Glenkens Medical Practice. time of Sunday morning Castle Douglas. Together we A ticket entitles the bearer to worship. They can also be left at can make a difference. The collect food from the Food Bank. a collection point in the Co-op in food bank is run from 3a King If it is established in consultation Castle Douglas. Street, Castle Douglas (on with the agencies that there is If anyone has enquiries about the big roundabout opposite an ongoing need, a further ticket obtaining emergency food they the old Station Hotel). It is will be issued for the following are encouraged to contact New set behind the houses and month, and so on. Life Church on 01556 505 855 accessed by a short drive, and Are you able to buy an extra and leave a message for a call is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays can of soup or packet of pasta, back. David Bartholomew St Margaret’s Ladies Guild Digs Deep for the Red Cross At the recent AGM Treasurer Jean Marsden Ladies Guild, and Lorna Porteous comments: “Newspaper and and Olive Bell from Dumfries and of the St Margaret’s television accounts daily reveal Galloway Red Cross, receiving Ladies Guild, the the horror of so many people’s the cheque outside St Margaret’s plight of refugees in lives and we felt strongly that Church in New Galloway. we must do something to the Middle East and help. those suffering from Part of the remit of the Ladies Guild is to help the ebola epidemic in those less fortunate than Africa was discussed ourselves and due to and it was unanimously our various fundraising activities we are pleased agreed to make an to have been able to immediate donation make a substantial donation”. of £800 to the Red Photograph: From left Cross to help in their to right, Jenny Repath, humanitarian work in Jean Marsden and Christine Rankin of the these areas. The Clog & Shoe Workshop unique handmade footwear

open 10am - 5pm weekdays The Fleet Fish van is in the Glenkens Easter Mon to 31st October on Tuesdays & Wednesdays every week. Anyone wishing me to call, please ring to arrange a visit at please phone Mary on above mobile no. other times Christmas Deliveries Tel: 01644 420 465 order forms available [email protected] visit our new online shop at www.facebook.com/fleetfish www.fleetfish.co.uk www.clogandshoe.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 8 Glenkens Gazette page 9 A DECADE ON THE BUS Keith Cooper, set. I recently received an Much of the recent growth of email from the secretary GTI has been the result of the administrator for the of the Scottish Community link with Dumfries & Galloway Glenkens Transport Transport Association saying Council and the support Initiative (GTI) for that GTI was an example received from them has been to all community transport invaluable. almost a decade, has initiatives in Scotland on what Finally, I must thank Bob decided to hang up his could be achieved from small Peace, Brian Edgar and all of beginnings to the benefit of a the GTI committee who have keys and the Glenkens rural community with limited helped me over recent years, Gazette wishes him public transport. all the volunteer drivers who all the best in his We must never forget that in have kept the wheels turning a rural community transport and, last but not least, those retirement. must always be the main people in the Glenkens who The first few years are priority because without it make regular use of the probably the most important people suffer from social wonderful asset you now have. time for any new project as exclusion, are unable to get I was told by Bob Peace foundations are laid for the to hospitals, shops, places to enjoy my retirement by future. In the early days GTI of interest and meet other “walking the legs off my dog, was reliant on government people, and their health and getting my golf handicap down funding and passenger quality of life deteriorates. and keeping out of Susan’s numbers were very low. To I have always been very way”. I can think of no better have reached the position we grateful to Cathy Agnew and way of achieving the last than are today where the initiative the Glenkens Community and by carrying on driving the bus is financially self-sustainable, Arts Trust (GCAT) board at that from time-to-time, which will and last year over 5,000 time for having the foresight also allow me to keep in touch passengers were carried, to buy the first minibus and with many of you. means that the foundations forming and supporting GTI in Best Wishes, Keith Cooper have been well and truly its early days. The Clachan Inn Dalry

Food served daily from 12noon to 2pm & 6pm to 9pm New winter menu now available Log fire, real ales, en-suite accomodation Live music events Open for Christmas Day drinks from 12noon to 2.30pm Now taking bookings for our Christmas menu - and don’t forget our Christmas party on Friday 19 December with a live band in the bothy! 01644 430 241 [email protected] www.theclachaninn.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 10 Glenkens Gazette page 11 Developing Talent for the Future The Pentathlon is an to compete. William Nash, a P7 pupil at event which combines Dalry School, competed in the the five sporting under-12-year-old category. He disciplines of pistol- ran 800 metres in two minutes and 57 seconds, coming in shooting, fencing, joint-first. swimming, horse-riding The second event took part at Annan swimming pool where and running. William had to swim 50 metres, GB Penthalon recently where he came in fourth. sponsored a Biathlon in Annan Those that had competed Sports Complex as part of in this event will find out in a nationwide programme to January if they qualify for the encourage under-nine-year- next round which will take place olds up to under-17-year-olds in London. William Nash with his winning medal. CARSPHAIRN Dalry SCHOOL REPORT School We are well into programme. We have been building fires and different types Tech Club another wonderful year of shelters, and even cooking. Dalry School at Carsphairn Primary. Our pupils enjoy being presented Technology Club is now We try our best to bring our with opportunities to work with in its seventh season learning outdoors, and this year fire and sharp cutting tools, which is no different. So, the pupils if mishandled could obviously and is proving more thought the best way to introduce be dangerous. However, popular than ever with our new headteacher, Jenny outdoor learning gives pupils an Smith, to our parents, carers and opportunity to identify potential a total of 23 members community as a whole was to risks and hazards themselves, so attending the first invite everyone on a local hike they learn to make safe decisions session. together. We were very lucky in a controlled environment. This season is more popular to have Elizabeth Peacock from Finally, we must also quickly than ever with a total of 23 Walking for Health safely guide us mention halloween and some members attending the first for the three hour hike up to the of the wonderful costumes that session. For the first time, old lead mines in the hills behind the children wore to school. Our these came from all three of our school. It was a great day, wee monsters, zombies and the Glenkens Primary schools enjoyed very much by everyone princesses had the chance to plus Dalry Secondary. It is that took part. show their true colours! Brilliant a credit to the pupils that To continue along with our costumes and scary stories they want to come along ‘outdoor learning’ theme this showed what young, imaginative after school to find out more term we had countryside ranger minds and a little hard work are about the information and Elizabeth Tindale visit the school capable of producing. communications technology to continue our Forest School that increasingly affects us all in our daily lives. The Club always focuses on state-of-the-art technology and over the years has introduced many pupils to their first look at smartphones, tablets and other developing technology. This season we will cover 3D printing, setting up a home network, and threats to the internet, amongst other subjects. Glenkens Gazette page 10 Glenkens Gazette page 11 Glenkens Gazette page 12 Glenkens Gazette page 13 Glenkens Gazette page 12 Glenkens Gazette page 13 Glenkens Gazette page 14 Glenkens Gazette page 15 Glenkens Gazette page 14 Glenkens Gazette page 15 SERAFINA WINS BOOK COMPETITION Serafina Green from primary category by author and illustrator Guy Parker- Dalry Primary recently Rees. won the Primary Award He said: “ Wonderful illustrations and bold in the 2014 Reading splashy washes made Zone Picture Book this book a real winner. I Competition. loved the imaginative use of photography and the Serafina’s picture book, Xandra thoughtful observations Wants a Dog, was considered to and details. Very well done be outstanding by the judges. It Serafina.” was selected as the winner of the Kells Children Raise Over £1,000 Pupils in New Galloway. primary seven Students planned and advertised the coffee morning and served at Kells Primary parents and friends of the school raised £1178.18 on the day. They also made collection tins for local businesses by hosting to collect donations for the charity. a Macmillan The pupils would like to thank Coffee Morning everyone from the local community who supported the event. at the Cross Zane Gray Keys Hotel in Health and Well-Being Moves are afoot Young people who are being was based on the quote “A educated within the framework journey of a thousand miles in the Glenkens to of Curriculum for Excellence have must begin with a single step”. help us all develop health and well-being up there Young people are being with literacy and numeracy as encouraged to build their the motivation and being fundamental to success. personal fitness levels and to see desire to become Everything we can do as it as being something achievable healthy in every a community to enhance by persistent effort in the right these aspects will support the direction. Maybe that’s a good sense - physically, development of our young place for us all to start. emotionally, socially people. Leading by example is Jenny Smith, the most effective method. Glenkens Partner Headteacher and mentally. A recent Dalry School assembly

W BONE WHB JEEPS THE GARAGE, DALRY PETROL & DIESEL SALES SERVICE & REPAIRS MOTs, TYRES, BATTERIES ALL AT COMPETITIVE PRICES OPEN 8.30AM - 6.00PM (SIX DAYS) 10AM - 6PM SUNDAYS - FUEL 24 HOURS - SHOP • SANDWICH BAR • LOTTERY Tel: 01644 430208 Fax: 01644 430669 [email protected] www.whbjeeps.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 16 Glenkens Gazette page 17 Memorial to Rob Watson Sharing On the beautiful sunny the farming enterprises for the estate. Rob and his wife Mary Knowledge evening of Thursday 25 had moved to the Glenkens from An Ayrshire and Arran September, a granite Northumberland in 1953 and Mary tourism team has been memorial to the late was also very much involved in the running of Forrest Lodge house. visiting Carsphairn Rob Watson, estate Employees past and present who Heritage Centre on manager at Forrest had worked on the estate over the a learning journey years with Rob, Mr and Mrs Fred Estate for almost 50 Olsen, representatives of Fred visiting heritage and years, was formally Olsen & Co, and several of the community groups en unveiled. Olsen family attended the evening. route to the Isle of Rob had been head forester Rob’s family was represented and then estate manager at by his daughters, Marjorie and . Margaret, his grandchildren, The visit was organised by ‘The Forrest’ since January 1953 Hannah, Henry, and William, Julie Sloan. The 19 members of until his eventual retirement in and his sons-in-law, Jack Pringle the group represented Ayrshire 2002. It had been his childhood and Jeremy College, Dundonald Community, dream to create a forest and that Sainsbury. Girvan Visitor Information Centre, dream was fulfilled at Forrest The Biosphere, Ballantrae Development Estate, a place he loved dearly. memorial is Company, Ailsa Horizon and As well as being in charge of the sited at the Ladyburn B&B. forestry operations, he was also head of the Joyce Hunter Blair and Ruth responsible for the planning and glen between Williams welcomed them and construction of the many roads Forebush and answered many questions from the and bridges which traverse the Burnhead setting up of the heritage centre estate, one of which is named bridges and to how we deal with windfarm after him. In addition he oversaw looks up to people. They were also interested the development of the three Shinmount. in the volunteering system which hydro-electric schemes and successfully runs the centre. was instrumental in developing

����������������������������������������������������� Aileen • Pensions • Savings • Investments McLeod • Retirement Options • Inheritance Tax Planning • Life Assurance MSP • Income & Critical Illness Protection working for you across • Mortgages • Home Insurance the South of Scotland Free Confidential Postal address: Unit 7 Initial Consultation Loreburn Shopping Centre Tel: 01671 403080 Fax:- 01671 402549 High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2BD Email: Email: [email protected] [email protected] Web: www.marrfinancial.co.uk Tel: 61 Victoria Street 01387 255 334 NEWTON STEWART, DG8 6NL Please check **NEW** Yorkshire Building Society Agency – Now Open Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on www.aileenmcleod.org your mortgage. for regular surgery, constituency For mortgages we can be paid by commission or a fee of usually £300 or a combination of both. For Home Insurance we usually offer products from a limited panel of providers. and parliamentary updates Glenkens Gazette page 16 Glenkens Gazette page 17 GAZETTE BOOK GIVEAWAY In this issue of the Crockett compiled by Cally 3 - Where is S R Crockett’s Phillips (Q3) are all up for memorial situated? Glenkens Gazette we grabs. All you have to do is Please either send answers to: have three wonderful answer a question related to Glenkens Gazette, CatStrand, local books on offer as the theme of the book to be in New Galloway, DG7 3RN or with a chance of winning...The email glenkensgazette@hotmai a festive giveaway. questions are: l.co.uk Zero Footprint by Leeming & 1 - Find a photograph all in Good luck and best wishes for Paterson (Q1), The Galloway aprons (give the page number) the year ahead! Highlands by Dane Love (Q2) 2 - Where was the spectral Sarah Ade, and A Cameronian Christmas sighting mentioned in one of the Editor, and Other Winters’ Tales; S.R. articles in this issue? Glenkens Gazette A Cameronian Christmas 100 years after his Galloway and beyond. roaring hearth – and our spirits are death, the first new Gifted in the art of natural somehow the better for it. description, Crockett paints in S R Crockett was born at Little collection of stories prose. In the selection chosen Duchrae, Laurieston, in September by S R Crockett since for A Cameronian Christmas and 1859 and died in April 1914. He Other Winters’ Tales he gives us was a prolific writer of historical 1909 has been released a seasonal treat that will last long adventure romance stories of and brings together into the darkest days of winter. Galloway as well as further afield. some of his fictional While we are all familiar with Find out more about S R Crockett Dickens’ transformational and and his Glenkens connections by writing about the redemptive Christmas stories, joining The Galloway Raiders at Christmas period and Crockett offers us porridge in place www.gallowayraiders.co.uk or of turkey and snow in place of a purchase a copy of the book at winter season in rural www.aytonpublishing.co.uk THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL New Galloway Bargatton Sand & Gravel

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MEALS SERVED For further details contact: 12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm Angus Wilson, Quarry Manager - 07715 606 685 Bed & breakfast en suite accommodation James Mair - 07793 085 243 Email: [email protected] 01644 420 211 Bargatton Quarry, Laurieston, Castle Douglas, DG7 2PS [email protected] Open 7 days Mon-Fri www.kenbridgehotel.co.uk Weekends by arrangement NEW WEDDING BROCHURE Delivery can be arranged - subject to quantity NOW AVAILABLE Glenkens Gazette page 18 Glenkens Gazette page 19 DALRY CHOCOLATIER Eco Talks Dalry resident chocolate is handmade by The South West Association Suzanne at her home in Dalry, Suzanne Dawson has of Nature Conservation offering unprecedented colour (SWANC) have announced just set up a new and taste sensations which delight the palate. Suzanne their winter programme: business designing says: “Cocoa Kalula’s ethos Jan 22 - How Climate Change and creating artisan is ‘luxury is all about how is Affecting our Wildlife: are you feel’ and after eating our birds, butterflies and beetles chocolates. chocolates you will appreciate having to change their habits or Suzanne and her husband the difference”. homes? Jonathan have lived in the Presently Suzanne is working Feb 26 - Small Homes, Huts, Glenkens for 10 years, during on her chocolate designs and and Cabins – How to Live which time Suzanne has been packaging for Christmas - get in Lightly in the Country: what inspired by the abundance of touch if you would like to make are the rules? What are the handmade products in the area. a Christmas order: you can problems? When does a hut She undertook her training in contact Suzanne on 430 461 or become a home? chocolate making in February [email protected] Mar 26 - Getting On and Off 2014 and the Beaten Track: regional upon returning set up Cocoa experts discuss new ways of Kalula. The improving rural transport, fledgling so we can become a bit less company reliant on our cars. prioritises Apr 23 - The Beavers are selecting Back: is this good news? Do the best raw they upset fisheries? Are they a ingredients menace? and you can Talks are held at the Ken Bridge be assured Hotel at 7.30pm.For further that every information please contact Cocoa Kalula Suzanne Dawson with her range of Cocoa Kalula chocolates. [email protected] Glenkens Gazette page 18 Glenkens Gazette page 19 The Great War – 100 Years On One hundred years these were leaving either to join his old school, Eton. the Army or to fill the gaps left If you have photographs or ago, the Great War was by those joining up. Life was family details of any WW1 in full swing. changing fairly rapidly in the soldiers commemorated on local Regular soldiers had all gone Glenkens and, as it turns out, war memorials, please contact off with the British Expeditionary life would never return to the Paul Goodwin on 01644 430 062 Force to France and Flanders way it was before. or [email protected] (Belgium) and the Territorial The Glenkens had lost its first e.uk so they can be included in Battalions had been mobilised son on 14 September 1914 future articles. Paul Goodwin and gone off for training – the when Captain Augustus Ernest local 5th Battalion of the Kings Cathcart of the Kings Royal Rifle Own Scottish Borderers was in Corps was killed in France. He Tillicoultry preparing to go to the is buried in Paissy Churchyard. front. His family were from Yorkshire A big recruiting campaign was but his Scottish home was going on to get all fit and able Brockloch near Carsphairn and bodied men to enlist which they the family owned the lead mines were doing in large numbers. at Woodhead. His brother was On top of this, large numbers of killed in the Boer War and is horses were being conscripted. commemorated on a plaque This meant that most of the on the rear outside wall of farm and estate work had to Carsphairn Church. Augustus be done by women, children was 39 years old when he was and men too old to fight, and killed and left a widow and a six then with not enough horses to month old daughter. do the job. The middle classes Captain Augustus Ernest and better paid workers would Cathcart is remembered on the have had staff at the time and Carsphairn War memorial and at Captain A E Cathcart ALEX Wright’sWright’s Shop FERGUSSON MSP Dalry - we would like to wish all our customers FOR all the best for the Festive Season - GALLOWAY & Licensed convenience store & newsagent, now WEST DUMFRIES including Dalry Post Office. Holds regular advice surgeries at: Festive Season Opening Times: Christmas Eve: 7am - 5pm Constituency Office, New Market Christmas Day: closed Street, Castle Douglas, DG7 1HY Boxing Day: 8am - 1pm Hogmanay: 7am - 5pm on the 2nd Friday of every month from 5pm 1st January: closed Telephone free on 0800 028 7260 2nd January: 8am - 1pm for an appointment or to make Normal Opening TTimesimes (both shop & PO): any alternative arrangement. Monday to Friday: 7am – 6pm Saturday: 8am – 6pm You can visit Alex’s website at: Sunday: 8.30am – 4pm www.alexfergusson.org.uk Christmas hampers made-to-order or contact him by e-mail at: [email protected] Tel: 01644 430 225 Glenkens Gazette page 20 Glenkens Gazette page 21 A Winter’s Ghost Story A little-known murder Hair, Gilbert Makgympseis and mainly men but also one or two Jonet Cannan and now pertaining women wearing long greyish mystery surrounds a or any shall happen or pertain to skirts, and wearing bonnets. They farm in the Parish of our Soverain Lord and his estate followed a road that was not the through being of the said persons same as the existing road and Balmaclellan. fugitive from the law and at the which continued through the farm On the 1 June 1529, a letter horn [an outlaw; rebel against dykes. was received at the court in the King] for art and part of the The witness said he heard Haddington describing the slaughter of Donald McEwin in murmuring noises as the group “slaughter and murder” of a man the Cors of Balmaclellan.” moved from behind the house named Donald McEwin at Corse This story was relatively towards The Craig. He watched Farm. In the letter seven men unknown within the Parish but them for about a minute and and three women were named as an interesting episode occurred a half as they went around the being accountable for the killing. some years ago. A testimony corner. He added “I could still see Archivists are still working on was given from a young man the glow, but then it vanished.” this story and we don’t yet know who told of an eerie event he We don’t know if there is any if any further particulars of this had witnessed early one morning connection between this ghostly case have survived. while staying at Corse Farm. He vision and the history of the The letter refers to “ Hew explained he had been woken by murder at The Corse, but it is Johnsoun, Master and his whistling which he had thought certainly an unusual coincidence assignes one or more – of the was a cockerel at first. He got out describing the group of men and gift of all and sundry the goods of bed and went to the window women and the one poor soul movable and unmovable tackle, where on opening the blind he bound by chains in the hay cart steadings debts and others looked out and saw a horse and slowly being taken off to some whatsoever which pertains to rider, followed by four horses unknown fate. John Cairns in Cassenvey in the pulling a hay cart, a man was Bill Blyth, Blowplain Farm Parish of Balmaclellan. Andro driving the horses, and another Colyn his servant, Dungall was in the cart with hands bound If anyone has any further Cairns brother to the said John. and a chain around his neck. A information about the ghostly Cuthbert McKill, John Makmullan small group of people, about 10 sightings at Corse Farm, the servant to the Dungall, Jonet to 15 were walking behind the Gazette would like to hear Cairns, Bridok Cairns, Sythock cart carrying torches. They were from you. The Glenkens Story Update Next March it is contact Ted Cowan, Lizanne emerging of shops in the area. Henderson (420 839), Mike After reading the recent appeal, planned to launch Brown (420 267) or Tom Carlisle Christina Hockey, who moved into ‘The Glenkens Story: (420 750). Further details will Columbine on New Galloway High appear in the next Gazette. Street three years ago, reported sharing our history’ New Galloway shops: Since that she had found the sign for with a gathering to requesting information in the McLellan’s bakery which had once last Gazette more details are operated from the house (see celebrate and share the picture). If you can help with research already being this project please contact Avril Bridgeman on 420 438 undertaken by groups Transcribing Robert Heron: and individuals. Ted Cowan is looking for help Everyone with an interest in in transcribing the diary of the history of the Glenkens is Robert Heron. “I have a photstat welcome to take part. (See the of the diary of Robert Heron last edition of the Gazette for of New Galloway, man of the details). Enlightenment, polymath, and We are already laying plans first memorialist of Robert for a programme for later in Burns; it has never been the year including another published. A small remuneration event celebrating the life and is available for anyone locally work of S.R. Crockett as well who might be interested in as visits to local sites of various transcribing it (the hand is historic significance. If you have not difficult and I can do the information or interests to share awkward bits).” If you can help, or suggestions to offer please contact Ted on 420 839. Glenkens Gazette page 20 Glenkens Gazette page 21

LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN Darkness Visible The United Nations Since the beginning of time night and humankind has striven to extend pall thee has proclaimed 2015 the day, pushing back against in the ‘The International Year night’s darkness. dunnest smoke of hell”. Despite dire and pertinent In reality the majority could of Light’. warnings about future power not afford outdoor lights, which While the main theme will shortages we all take light for were in any case unreliable, be the application of light granted. We seldom stop to just as candles indoors, if used science and technology to consider that the extension of at all, were beyond the means future developments, it will also illumination, which we now enjoy of most. Locals used to collect celebrate the achievements through such projects as the rushes from the shores of Loch of individuals such as Parton’s Glenkens Hydro Scheme, marks Ken. Gathered in high summer, James Clerk Maxwell (1831- one of the greatest differences the plants would be thrown into 1879). Maxwell, born in in the everyday experiences of water to keep the peel supple Edinburgh, was brought up at our ancestors and us. For most before it was removed, leaving Glenlair where he conducted folk over the centuries activities the pith intact. The piths or cores some of his earliest experiments. requiring light ended at sunset. were then bleached and dried for In a lecture entitled ‘A Dynamic Dwellings of the Galloway poor about a week after which they Theory of the Electro-Magnetic were said to be as dark by day were dipped in scalding fat until Field’, presented to saturated. Rushes made the Royal Society of Since the beginning of time from tallow, usually evil- London he announced, smelling mutton fat, were “We have strong humankind has striven to said, by a man in 1911 reason to conclude that who used to make them light itself - including extend the day, pushing back when younger, to give a radiant heat and other dismal light; “darkness radiation, if any - is against night’s darkness. visible”. Today one electric an electromagnetic as by night; central hearths and light bulb supplies the disturbance in the form of a ‘lumm’, or hole in the roof, equivalent of 100 candles. waves propagated through the created a near impenetrable Movies or dramas on historical electro-magnetic field according internal fog of smoke. themes always show the sets as to electro-magnetic laws”. The Another legacy of God’s binary far too richly lit. When folk told paper, published in 1865, has organisation was the notion of tales of Fairyland they always since been hailed by those light as good and darkness as remarked on the brightness qualified to judge, including Max bad, the latter haunted by spirits, of the illuminations in the Planck and Albert Einstein, as one monsters and the Devil himself, fairy court. Such conspicuous of the greatest breakthroughs in as well as thieves, murderers, brightness equated with fabulous nineteenth-century science. adulterers and drunkards. wealth, dismissed by canny Maxwell’s theories may be Those occasional nights of pure Scots, including no doubt the beyond the comprehension of Galloway darkness, which render frugal Glenkensians, as “sheer many of us, but we all have ideas the wayfarer quite blind, and extravagance”. about light. The earliest verses feel almost physical in their All the best for the Festive of Genesis are very familiar: ‘And oppressiveness, are reminiscent Season - may your days be God said, “Let there be light.” of Lady MacBeth’s, “Come thick merry and bright! Ted Cowan FHB Fencing Family Dalry and friends Domestic and New Galloway coming to stay? Agricultural Golf Club Short of space? Founded 1902 Cosy country cottage Fencing www.nggc.co.uk aavailablevailable ((sleepssleeps 44)) 01644 430 495 (Peter) - 01644 420737 - Call Fiona on or 07767 795 498 Buggies now available for hire 01644 420 227 (Jonathan) VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME www.-holidaycottagescotland.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 22 Glenkens Gazette page 23 DECEMBER & JANUARY

Fri 12, Christmas Dance, Party, The Clachan Inn, Dalry DECEMBER 8pm, New Galloway Town Hall Thu 4, NG Golf Club AGM, (see ad below) 7.30pm, the clubhouse, New Fri 12 & Sat 13, CatStrand JANUARY Galloway Youth Players Panto, 7.30pm, Thu 8, Exhibition: Glenkens Fri 5, Mike Vass, 7.30pm, CatStrand see p7 Art Workshop, CatStrand CatStrand Sun 14, Glenkens Church opening hours, CatStrand Sat 6, Film: Frozen, 3pm, Choir Carols by Candlelight, Fri 16, Carsphairn Burns CatStrand 6.30pm, Balmaclellan Church Supper, Lagwyne Hall Sat 6, Christmas Coffee Sun 14, Aleksander Thu 22, SWANC Talk: How Morning, 10.30am-12noon, Kudajczyk, 7.30pm, CatStrand Climate Change is Affecting New Galloway Town Hall Sun 14, CatStrand Youth our Wildlife, 7.30pm, Ken Sat 6, Santa’s Grotto & Players Panto, 2pm, CatStrand Bridge Hotel, see p18 Christmas Craft Fair, 10am- (see p7) Sat 31, Dalry Burns Supper, 4pm, New Galloway Town Hall Fri 19, Film: Miracle on 34th see below Wed 10, Open Stage, Street (1947), CatStrand 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 19, Clachan Christmas

having a few Sonja Tranter on 07912481454 events through or [email protected] Clachan Fair the year to One way everyone can help is raise money for with the raffle. If everyone in All things change a more traditional Clachan Fair Dalry sold some tickets to family and so it is planned to in 2016. There will be something and friends we would have a for all ages so keep your eyes really good fundraiser. There will change the Clachan open for details. We’d love more be a raffle in 2015 and tickets Fair too. ideas and help so if you feel should be available sometime in To spread the fun in 2015 we’re you could do this please contact the new year.

Dalry Burns Supper Returns After a gap of over 10 years we are to re-introduce a Burns Supper in Dalry. This will take place on Saturday 31 January 2015. The main speaker at this will be Mr Chris Rollie from Dalry who is very well known in Burns circles. We hope to have this event every two years, on alternate years to Dalry School’s Burns Night. Please keep these dates in your diary. Jean Glenkens Gazette page 22 Glenkens Gazette page 23 REGULAR EVENTS CatStrand (New Glenkens Acoustic Sessions: last 7pm, Spalding Bowling Club, Dalry Galloway): Sun of the month, 2-4pm (opposite The Garage) Glenkens Community Wednesday Quiz Night: Wed, Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am 8.30pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Ukelele Group: Mon, 11.15am, Centre (Dalry): (contact Kath Galloway 430 281) 60+ Stewartry Camera Club: Wed, Ukelele Improvers, Mon, 1pm, Glenkens Children’s Club: Mon & 7.30pm, Ringford Village Hall, runs 60+ Fri, 9.30-11.45am Wed 11 Sept till end Mar Free Computer Training; Paint & Art: Mon, 1.30-4.30pm & Zumba: Wed, 7.30-8.30pm, New Wed, 7-9pm Beginners & Improvers: Mon Galloway Town Hall, £4 (starting 4 Nov), 1.30pm Ballroom & Latin Dance Class: Mossdale Painters: Wed, 9.30am, Mon, 7.15, for more info call Sam Margaret Morris Movement Adult Mossdale Village Hall Rushton on 420 672 Dance Class: Mon, 2.30-3.30pm, Cub Scouts: Wed, 6.45–8pm, New contact Sara on 01556 612854 GCC Playgroup: Tues & Galloway Scout Hut Children’s Dance Class: Mon Thurs, 9.20-11.50am, contact Carsphairn Post Office: Thurs, during term time, 3.45-4.45pm age [email protected] 9.30-11.30am, Lagwyne Hall 3-7, 4.30-5.30pm ages 8-15 Good Neighbours’ Club: Tues, Coffee & Craft Morning: Thurs, Let’s Cook: Tues, 10am 2pm 9.30-12noon, Lagwyne Hall Carers’ Coffee & Chat: Tues, Kickback Martial Arts: Thurs, 7- D&G Hard of Hearing Group 10am-12noon 9pm Drop-in: 1st Friday each month, Teen Spirit: Tues during term time, Thursday Craft Group: Thurs, 2- 10am-12noon,New Galloway Town 7-8:30pm (P7-S3) and 8-9:30pm 4pm Hall on the first Friday of every (S3+) Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm month. Guides: Tue during term-time, Gentle Tai Chi: Wed, 10am, 60+ Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm, New Sing it Out: Thurs, 11am -12pm 6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281 Galloway Scout Hut Pilates: Thurs, 4.15-5.15pm & Various Locations: To hire the MUGA (Multi Use 5.30-6.30pm Texas Hold ‘em Poker: Mon, Games Area) behind Dalry Knit & Blether Club: last Fri each School call Sonja Tranter on 7.15pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New 430 244 or Nicolette Wise on month, 2pm, 60+ Galloway 430 218. Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri each Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.45- month, 2pm 11.15am, New Galloway Town Hall Saturday Art Club: 2nd Sat each Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New Dalry Library month, 10am–12noon Galloway Scout Hut Tue: 2-4.30pm & 5.30-7.30pm Zumbatomic: last Sat each Dog Training: Tues & Wed, 7pm, Fri: 11.15am-1:15pm & 2-4.30pm. month,10-10.45am Dalry Town Hall. Contact: Eric 460 There are 23 mobile library stops - to fi nd out where and when please phone 430 234. Catstrand Youth Players: Sun 670 during term time, 2pm Bowling for Beginners: Wed, ADVERTISE IN Glenkens Community Councils THE GAZETTE Balmaclellan Community Council Dalry Community Council Meetings: (price per issue incl VAT) Meetings: 3rd Monday each month, 1st Monday each month, 7pm, Dalry SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall. Town Hall. off with series discount) Carsphairn Community Council New Galloway & Kells Community 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 Meetings: Last Monday each month, Council Meetings: 2nd Monday each (+ 25% off with series discount) 7pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn. month, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall. 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library. £151.20 (+ 25% off with series discount) : Community Christmas Service & FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon Children’s Party. 24 Dec, 11.30pm: (+ 25% off with series discount) 1st, 4th, Carsphairn: 10.30am Watchnight Service, Dalry Church. 1st 2nd 3rd 4th, Dalry: 12noon 25 Dec, 10.30am: Christmas Day Call 07727 127 997 2nd (Jan) 3rd 4th (Jan), Kells: Family Service, Carsphairn Church. VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 10.30am 2nd 3rd 4th (Jan) 28 Dec, 10.30am: United Service Special Services/Events: 6 with Choir, Kells Church. Dec, 10.30am: Guild Coffee SCOTTISH EPISCOPAL USEFUL NUMBERS: Morning, New Galloway Town CHURCH: St Margaret’s, New ● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000 Hall. 14 Dec, 10.30am: United Galloway: Holy Communion, Family Service, Kells Church. 10.30am every Sun & Wed ● Local Police: 0845 600 5701 14 Dec, 6.30pm, Carols by CATHOLIC CHURCH SERVICES: ● Doctor: 01644 420 234 Candlelight with Glenkens Church : Sat, 6pm. Choir, Balmaclellan Church. 23 Kirkcudbright: Sun, 9.30am. ● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24 Dec, 5pm: Carsphairn Church Dalbeattie: Sun, 11am ● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000 Glenkens Gazette page 24 GLENKENS PEOPLE’S SHED Work is progressing is the resurrection of the wood activities as varied as bike repair, carving class that used to be run upholstery, boat renovation or on the Glenkens in Dalry School by Bill Wiseman. model engineering. People’s Shed, a The other activity will be wood One of the major objectives is to new opportunity for turning and it is hoped to have two help younger people in the area lathes in place and appoint a tutor to learn new skills or crafts from everyone in the area for people who want to try their some of the local craftswomen and to practice and learn hand. craftsmen who will use the Shed. The Shed movement - originally To find out more about the woodworking and ‘Men’s Sheds’ - started in Australia Glenkens People’s Shed contact other skills. in the 1990s to enable men of Brian Jones on 01644 420374 or With the kind permission of the all ages to socialise and share email [email protected] owner, a section of the Old Smiddy activities they might other wise in Balmaclellan is being adapted undertake in their own sheds. to house the Shed which is part of The Glenkens People’s Shed will the Connecting in Retirement Big enable men and women to share Lottery four-year project. Work the tools, skills and resources on the Shed is progressing well they need to work on projects and insulated partitions and new of their own choosing, at their electrics are in place. Benches own pace, in a safe friendly and a range of tools are being environment. A Shed’s activities procured, some donated or grant- usually include making or mending funded. in wood (for example carpentry, Two activities are scheduled to joinery, turning, carving, furniture Testing out some of the Shed’s start by the end of this year. One renovation etc) and may include new equipment.

Design & co-ordination: WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Sarah Ade Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & [email protected] techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on Printing: & 07727 127 997 or [email protected] Free Press FEB/MAR COPY DEADLINE: 5 JANUARY www.stranraer-freepress.co.uk The Glenkens Gaze� e is an ini� a� ve of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Sco� sh Charity No. SC032050