GLENKENS GAZETTE News from Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Mossdale, New Galloway and St John’S Town of Dalry

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

August/September 2013 ISSUE 77 FREE Ian’s Cycling Success Dalry resident Ian Knox has raised nearly £6000 on a 250 mile charity bike ride across Malawi. Ian says: “A huge thank you to everyone who sponsored me on this worthwhile adventure for such a needed cause. The final total raised was £5,710.90, and overall by the 28 cyclists it will be in the region of £62,000. The money will be given to the Mulanje Mission Hospital to distribute through a number of vital health care projects.” Continued on p19... Ian (kneeling 2nd up from the person lying down) with other fundraisers. FOREST SCHOOLS Register Now for Superfast FOR CARSPHAIRN Broadband In the final few weeks of the 2012/13 school year, Dumfries & pupils from Carsphairn Primary School took their Gallowayregional learning to the forest where the boys and girls council has committed had six sessions in the beautiful Glenlee Forest. £12.6 million to Children had the opportunity to learn different knots, enjoy a scenic providing superfast hike around the forest, traverse the Craigshinnie Burn, learn about broadband to some of the flora and fauna, build their own shelters, find all kinds of hiding places and even make and drink a hot cup of tea! households and Forest schools businesses across are a type the region. of outdoor The South of Scotland education in which children Broadband Plan recognises visit forests, how important this investment learning is by putting infrastructure in personal, place to ensure that superfast social and broadband can be delivered technical skills. to those areas that do not Activities build currently receive it. independence and self-esteem, To make sure Glenkens and highly households get on the valuable personal map for new superfast skills are also broadband, go online developed such as teamwork and and register at: problem solving. www.southofscotland Continued broadband.co.uk Carsphairn Primary pupils pictured with teacher Walker McKenna. on p15... A Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT) initiative www.glenkensgazette.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 2 Love to Eat SO LONG An entrepreneurial SEAN PAUL duo in New Galloway After two very successful has started up a new and innovative years as Glenkens business. the General Manager of the Helen Keron and Glenkens Community & Arts Trust (GCAT), Sean Paul Dawn Spernagel have O’Hare is moving back to his created Love To Eat, a native Ireland to manage company offering high- the Seamus Ennis Cultural quality home-made expect was providing meals Centre in County Dublin. for elderly customers who It goes without saying that all frozen meals. are looked after by carers. In of us who have worked with him Ingredients are sourced as response to this, they have are sorry to see him go. We will locally as possible, with meat modified a number of their miss his energy, sense of humour, from Grierson’s butchers in meals to be microwaveable Castle Douglas, fresh fruit and instead of oven-cook in order to imagination and friendship. vegetables and free-range eggs, allow them to be prepared and However, we congratulate him on as well as seasonal extras from served in a very short time. the exciting challenge he is taking up. I hope that he will not forget their own gardens. These top- Dawn has always been the time he spent in the Glenkens quality ingredients are used to interested in seasonal food and that this move might help to create a varied and seasonal and runs a number of ‘specials’ foster the development of cultural menu of mains, puddings, soups through their Facebook page. and breads that can be kept in These are keenly watched for by and artistic links between similar the freezer until needed. loyal customers, and everything rural communities in Galloway Helen says: “We got the idea from Wild Garlic Pesto to and Ireland. from those busy days we all Elderflower and Gooseberry Jam The post of GCAT General have when you just don’t feel gets snapped up straight away. Manager has now been like - or have time to - cook “When they’re gone, they’re advertised and we hope to hold from scratch. Yet you still want gone!” says Dawn. “I have interviews in the week beginning to eat high quality, tasty food always loved foraging and the 5 August. Andrew Mellor made from ingredients you sourcing seasonal fruit and veg would choose yourself. As there to make delicious food for my was nothing like that on offer family, and its exciting now to around here, we decided to fill be able to offer it to a wider Roger That Roger Crofts, from Dalry, the niche!” audience. They seem to love it received an Honorary The business, which started in just as much as we do!” February 2013, is really taking Degree of Doctor of Science It’s great to see new enterprises at the recent Glasgow off, with many repeat customers starting up in the Glenkens and around the Glenkens. This initial University graduation with the energy and enthusiasm ceremony at The Crichton success has prompted the pair the pair are putting into their to expand further afield to Campus. Roger is Director business - from choosing only of Watson Birds, Chair of include Castle Douglas, as well the best ingredients to providing as catering for local businesses. the Galloway and Southern that little bit of extra customer Ayrshire Biosphere and a One interesting development care - this small business is set Director of the Crichton that Dawn and Helen didn’t to go from strength to strength. Carbon Centre.

for days when life’s too short Quality home-cooked frozen meals, puddings, soups and bread See www.lovetoeatglenkens.com for full menu & find us on Facebook for seasonal additions. Order on the website or call 07940 745 339 10% off your order in August (one per household) if you quote Gazette1 Glenkens Gazette page 3 Photo of the Issue: ‘Midsummer Madness’ Sponsored by the Ken Bridge Hotel This issue’s winner is this action shot of two house martins by David Birdsall. Dave and Sue of the Ken Bridge Hotel, judges of the Photo of the Issue Competition, said: “We loved this shot and thought it was just so perfect for the time of year, but we’d also like to give a special mention to Mary McIlvena for her wonderful shot Misty Morning at Clatteringshaws; it was a difficult choice.” David will receive a meal for two at the Ken Bridge Hotel Sunday Carvery. Send in your entries for next issue and it could be you next time! We will keep all entries on file and if they suit a future theme/season, they will be re-considered. Mossdale Jubilee Path & Picnic Area The footpath and picnic are now almost complete, and by the time this is printed the picnic tables and benches should have been installed too. There will be an official opening, hopefully in September, so look out for details nearer the time. The project has been Farewell from designed and carried out by John Robson of Crossmichael and, in keeping with the railway history of Mossdale, he has the Newtons edged the picnic area with railway sleepers and utilised some Our move to Inverurie went well granite that was originally part of the station platform. We are and we were very touched by indebted to the grant from the Big Lottery Fund without which the fond farewells from all our customers. Matthew & Gill this project would not have been possible Jill Haslam THE KEN BRIDGE HOTEL New Galloway

• Pensions • Savings • Investments • Retirement Options • Inheritance Tax Planning • Life Assurance • Income & Critical Illness Protection Open 7 Days • Mortgages • Home Insurance Beautiful Riverside Location Free Confidential MEALS SERVED Initial Consultation 12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.30 - 8.30pm Tel: 01671 403080 Fax:- 01671 402549 Renowned Ken Bridge Sunday Email: [email protected] Lunch Carvery, ‘The Best in the Web: www.marrfinancial.co.uk West’, now in its 8th year. 61 Victoria Street Bed & breakfast en suite accommodation NEWTON STEWART DG8 6NL 01644 420 211 Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. [email protected] 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. ww.kenbridgehotel.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 4

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raw materials are expensive I recently visited a Glenkens Upcycyling and not so easy to come by, resident who, on having a The eco word of the upcycling is common practice. new bathroom suite put in, upcycled her old plastic bath moment is ‘upcycling’ The fashion and art worlds have long been trying to inspire tub. She used wood from old and it is something us to upcycle what we see as pallets to build a frame around we can all consider waste. One of the most famous it, painted the wood and filled examples of this is Picasso’s the tub with plants. It looks when it comes to our ‘Bullshead’ sculpture, and great; you’d never guess it waste products. even here in the Glenkens you was something otherwise destined for the rubbish dump. Everyone’s heard of recycling, can find examples such as the but upcycling is the conversion CatStrand’s trademark sheep, Upcycling seems a sensible of waste into something of created by artist Silvy Weatherall and eco-friendly concept, and use. The modern generation from the old school shed! can also inform our purchasing has become incredibly wasteful Admittedly, not all of us are that habits. There are more and and we are labelled the ‘throw- talented, but perhaps we should more companies out there who away generation’. We have a all take a second look at the are upcycling old products and tendency to regard everything things we are throwing out. turning them in to everything as disposable and those objects from jewellery to garden in our lives that we no longer So where do you furniture, paving to post-and- require are just thrown away. start? There is a rail fencing. So why not re- imagine your waste today! However, upcycling is not a plethora of websites new concept; our grandparents “Nature does not know the and older relatives would with information concept of waste; the only often spend their long winter on how to upcycle species capable of making evenings converting old everything from something no-one desires is products into something the human species.” Gunter new and useful. In fact, in bathtubs to clothing, Pauli, Zero Emissions Research developing countries, where bedsheets to tyres. and Initiatives. Sara McNeill Saturday 28th September Individual & team competitions – lots of fun for all dogs! Barstobrick Indoor Arena, Ringford, Castle Douglas, DG7 2AT In aid of Dumfries & Galloway Canine Rescue Centre (Charity SCO31991) Entry forms from: www.caninerescue.co.uk/dogolympics

Cllr Finlay Carson GLENKENS W BONE MEDICAL PRACTICE WHB JEEPS Castle Douglas & General Medical & THE GARAGE, DALRY Glenkens PETROL & DIESEL SALES Dispensing Services SERVICE & REPAIRS for an appointment MOTs, TYRES, BATTERIES The Surgery ALL AT COMPETITIVE PRICES High Street OPEN 8.30AM - 6.00PM (SIX DAYS) Tel: 07825 633 185 New Galloway or email: 10AM - 6PM SUNDAYS - FUEL 24 HOURS - [email protected] FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL SHOP • SANDWICH BAR • LOTTERY  01644 420234  Tel: 01644 430208 Fax: 01644 430669 www.finlaycarson.co.uk [email protected] www.whbjeeps.co.uk Glenkens Gazette page 6 Glenkens Gazette page 7 Retiring in Style with the CatStrand Brian Jones, Community especially opened for the group. Projects Officer at the A ten-week Gentle Tai Chi course started on Tuesday 2 July, CatStrand, is keen to run in conjunction with Morag hear from residents in Curtis from the NHS Building Healthy Communities Stewartry the Glenkens who are Project. Sessions are aimed at over sixty and would helping folk with a long-term like to join the newly- health condition. The hope is to have more of these sessions formed Connecting in in outreach locations where Retirement group to help Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) buses would be provided define and implement enjoying their session. Group The Ukelele Other activities scheduled are: activities and events. a free six-week ‘Taking the First with representatives from the Police, Fire Brigade and other To date a number of activities Steps in Computing’ course associated Agencies. have taken place or are on- starting from Monday 15 July. going. The Ukulele Group is Starting Tuesday 30 July, a free If you are interested in any of proving very successful with ‘Let’s Cook’ four-week course is these activities or have ideas for participants building up a where participants can learn more other activities Brian would love repertoire of songs and aiming about healthy eating, planning to hear from you - feel free to to expand and perhaps join with meals and cooking on a budget. call in to the CatStrand to have a youth group of ukulele players. a cuppa and a chat with him, Early October sees a one-day or get in touch on 420 374 or A trip was arranged to a ‘Home Safety and Security [email protected] Dumfries garden which was Awareness Day’ in conjunction

£500 for Castle Douglas Hospital League of Friends The Ladies Guild at St Margaret’s Church in New Galloway has given Castle Douglas Hospital League of Friends a cheque for £500. St Margaret’s Ladies Guild President, Christine Rankin, commented: “Following our successful Plant and Bake Sale in May, we were delighted to Dalry Womens Rural Institute (WRI) had a donate the proceeds to Castle Douglas Hospital through wonderful 90th party. the League of Friends who do so much for the hospital and its patients. Many of our friends and neighbours have DANGEROUS LITTER benefitted from the care at Please think about others when you throw Castle Douglas Hospital and away litter which could be dangerous. we are always happy to help in On Wednesday 10 July a quantity of broken glass and litter had any way we can”. to be cleared from the ‘beach’ area on the far side of the wooden pedestrian bridge in Dalry. The glass was from Carlsberg and Magners cider bottles which seemed to have been opened by breaking the necks against a tree. In June there was also a lot of broken glass in Dalry children’s playpark from Vimto bottles; the fact that children will very likely be playing there with bare feet over the summer doesn’t bear thinking about... Broken glass is an obvious danger both to people and animals, particularly to children. Please dispose of litter responsibly.

Balmaclellan Community Council meet on Monday 2 September at 8pm for their AGM followed by the usual agenda. All welcome. Glenkens Gazette page 8

Multicultural Shop Call-out I am now working at Dumfries & Galloway Multicultural Centre and, after witnessing the success of our Dalry Community Shop, I thought a similar community shop within the Multcultural Centre would be a good idea. The aim is to raise money and to aid the empowerment of members through improving their conversational English, promoting confidence, providing work experience and reducing social isolation. Most importantly, we want to create an atmosphere of happiness and fun. The shop will also stock Fairtrade goods and crafts and artwork by members, and welcome packs for people arriving from overseas to the region. I am looking for donations of any kind - clothes, books, jewellery, pictures, general bric-a-brac, etc, as well as plant pots and plants to brighten up the front of the Centre. I also need volunteers to help run the shop, so if you know of anyone, send them my way. And next time you’re in Dumfries, come in and see me! The Centre is the Georgian sandstone building with stone steps and two pillars outside at the back of Marks & Spencers (Old Assembly Close, just off Irish Street). Many thanks, Gill Stanyard

Aileen McLeod MSP

working for you across the South of Scotland Postal address: Unit 7 Loreburn Shopping Centre High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2BD Email: [email protected] Tel: 01387 255 334 Please check www.aileenmcleod.org for regular surgery, constituency and parliamentary updates Glenkens Gazette page 9 CatStrand Highlights The CatStrand has had a great delighted that he summer so far, and the fun is set to will be giving a continue with our line-up of events concert here. over the coming months. Dogstar Theatre present The This season we will be making a contribution Baroness on Wednesday to the Scottish Alternative Games on Sunday 11 September starring the 3 August with The Stu Brown Sextet. These brilliant Roberta Taylor outstanding musicians will be playing the jazz (pictured). Closely following music of Raymond Scott, made recognisable this production will be from his work for the Loony Tunes Cartoons of another more contemporary the 1940s. This will take place on the evening style of theatre created by of Saturday 2 August, and there will be an the multi-award-winning animation workshop earlier in the day to create David Leddy. The comedy visuals to accompany the performance. caper, Long Live the Little Knife, will be performed on Wednesday 18 Classical music from The Jones Trio will take September, a newly developed show with support place on Friday 9 August; father and daughter from the RSC and the British Museum. cellists, Nicholas and Gabriella Jones join up with pianist John Thwaites to deliver a programme We conclude the summer season programme of Beethoven, Mozart and Debussy. We are also with a special show from Roddy Hart and the pleased to welcome Steven Osborne and Jean Lonesome Fire, a group of young musicians from Johnson as part of the Watson Birds Festival on Glasgow who combine classic Americana with Friday 20 September. Celtic soul. Catch this up-and-coming group on Friday 27 September. Steven Osborne is one of Britain’s For full listings, or to book tickets, call foremost musicians, and we are 01644 420 374 or visit www.catstrand.com Bargatton Sand & Gravel Supplying sand and gravel for all Gillespie Gifford & Brown LLP your farming needs, as well as Solicitors and Estate Agents households and businesses both Selling properties across large and small. Dumfries & Galloway 01556 503744 In Stock: Sharp sand, building sand, washed www.ggblaw.co.uk gravels including peagravel and 20-40mm draining gravel. All legal advice

£15 per tonne + VAT. Offices in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie Kirkcudbright and Dumfries Aggregate mix £15.50 per tonne + VAT. For further details contact: Angus Wilson, Quarry Manager - 07715 606 685 James Mair - 07793 085 243 Email: [email protected] Bargatton Quarry, Laurieston, Castle Douglas, DG7 2PS Open 7 days Mon-Fri Weekends by arrangement Delivery can be arranged - subject to quantity Glenkens Gazette page 10 CHILDREN’S CLUB CELEBRATES FIRST YEAR Glenkens Children’s Club is holiday activities for all None of these things would have children up to secondary school age. happened without the efforts of Club (GCC) celebrates This summer’s programme is the amazing group of parents its first birthday this jam-packed with events - take a and carers that support GCC. I July. It’s been a busy look below to see what’s on, or would like to thank them deeply visit our website (www. for their moral and practical support over the past year. year for the group, glenkenschildrensclub.co.uk) or which is going from find us on Facebook for further In particular I would strength to strength. details. And then there’s our like to thank the old More than 15 children routinely first birthday party! Come and and new members of attend with their parents celebrate with us on Friday 16 the committee - with or carers during term time, August, 9.15-11.45am for some others, they routinely enjoying the bikes, sand party games, dancing, face and water play, and plenty painting and, of course, some go above and beyond to of dressing-up fun. A varied birthday cake. ensure that the children selection of activities is offered, Playgroup plans are progressing of the area have these from baking to planting, library fast since we received the excellent facilities and sessions to painting and collage. £10,000 grant from the Big activities available. And of course there’s always Lottery Fund. We have staff time for some very messy play! appointed and Care Inspectorate GCC is an affiliated member of We’ve had an influx of new registration is nearly complete. the Glenkens Community & Arts recruits in the shape of some Playgroup will start on Tuesday 20 Trust (GCAT), and again I would adorable newborns, who have August and run on Tuesday and like to thank the staff and board recently enjoyed a course of Thursday mornings in term-time, there for their ongoing support, free Baby Massage and we’ve from 9.15-11.45am at the Dalry which has been instrumental in invested in some beautiful bright Community Centre. It is open to allowing us to grow in this way. baby toys and equipment to all children aged 2-4 and will cost So do come along, have some make them feel just as at home £5 per session. Contact Helen fun, meet some grown-ups and as the toddlers. Keron on [email protected] for make the second year even Another important aspect of the more details or to register a child. better than the first! Helen Keron, GCC Chair ALEX FERGUSSON MSP FOR GALLOWAY & WEST DUMFRIES Holds regular advice surgeries at: Constituency Office, New Market Street, Castle Douglas, DG7 1HY on the 2nd Friday of every month from 5pm Telephone free on 0800 028 7260 for an appointment or to make any alternative arrangement. You can visit Alex’s website at: www.alexfergusson.org.uk or contact him by e-mail at: [email protected] Glenkens Gazette page 11 Glenkens Gazette page 12 Glenkens Gazette page 13 Glenkens Gazette page 14 Glenkens Gazette page 15 Sunny Sports Day A GREAT GRADING The sun was shining and a great day Carsphairn Tai Jitsu Club recently was had by all at the Dalry Nursery held its first grading. Mathew and Primary annual sports day. Dovaston achieved his yellow belt The morning took the form of a potted sports and was awarded a Distinction, event, including a variety of sporting activities such as throwing, jumping and agility. To round which is the highest award when off the morning, the Nursery children took part grading. in some traditional races. A picnic lunch was Mathew applied himself fully and his manners, then held on the playing field, with parents and dedication and attitude have been outstanding. families enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. A special thanks go to the other students who The afternoon session included traditional races. helped him achieve this. All the activities added up to earn points for the Now that the Senior students have managed to house teams. It was a close-run competition, with get the funding for mats, I am hoping to get the the winning house this year being Earlstoun. Carsphairn community to come together and The girl sports champion was Emily (P7) and the help the Junior students put forward a proposal boys sports champion was Cameron (P6). The for funding for extra equipment. I am sure this school would like to thank Newton’s shop in Dalry, will be a rewarding meeting, and a great learning Tesco and the Co-op for providing fruit and water for refreshments, and the parents, friends and experience for the Juniors as they will be included members of the community that came along to in decision-making about the Club. support the school. Dave Birdsall, Club Instructor Rhys and Christy in the beanbag race. Forest Schools Continued from front page... Part of the Forest Schools ethos is to allow children to assess risk independently to help them make safe decisions. BECK GOLDSMITH Although taking the learning outside is a lot of fun, pupils had to make sure that they were being CatStrand youth worker Rebecca, safe and responsible. Before we left for the forest, aka Beck Goldsmith, is going from everyone had to dress in proper footwear and waterproof clothing and make sure that backpacks strength to strength with her contained everything we needed that day. With help music career. from leader Cecelia Franklin, pupils set boundaries Rebecca says: “I’ve now signed a record and used rope to highlight any hazards. When it contract. The deal is a partnership between a was time to leave the forest, everything was packed strong independent label and Island Records, so up and tidied away so that we would leave no trace. I get the backing of a major label but still keep Carsphairn Primary would like to thank all the a lot of independence and control - best of both people that have made these sessions possible. worlds!” The pupils are really hoping to return to Forest Her new album will be released in September, Schools in the autumn, when there should be fewer and will include the song I Vow to Thee My midges! In the future, it is hoped that all Glenkens Country, originally used for a BBC TV trailer, Cluster schools, including Kells Primary and Dalry as well as some other traditional songs with School, will also have the chance to experience contemporary arrangements and some of her outdoor learning the Forest Schools way. own original songs too. Walker McKenna Glenkens Gazette page 16 Spare Room Doom KELLS NEWS This April heralded help people pay their rent. Early Kells Primary have had sweeping new changes indications show a significant a busy summer season. increase in people applying for At the annual Sports Day pupils in welfare reform. One of discretionary payments in March all gave 100% during all the the changes, nicknamed and April as a direct result of these activities and races, with the changes. Clatteringshaws team coming the ‘bedroom tax’ by Local councillor Brian Collins, first. Clatteringshaws House Labour, has been seen SNP councillor for the Glenkens Captains Erin McGaw and Mia to have had the biggest ward, is chair of a new sub- Walker are pictured below with committee created to support those the Sports Day trophy. effect on people. affected. Brian commented on the Kells Primary recently won The new legislation affects residents discretionary housing payment fund: the rounders competition at in social housing who are of working “The focus of this fund will Crossmichael Primary’s Small age, that is, those aged over 16 and School Sports Tournament. be to assist those tenants under 61, and who are in receipt of P5-7 pupils visited Dumfries Housing Benefit. If a tenant has one who are unable to improve Aviation Museum as part of spare room, their benefit will be cut their current situation and their World War Two topic. The by approximately 14% of the rent have no alternative means pupils were History Detectives, they pay each week (an average of investigating local people who £11). For two or more spare rooms, to access funds. We want were stationed at the airbase this percentage increase to 25% (an to support people who during the war. average of £20 per week). are experiencing financial Pupil Amberleigh Hackwood- This leaves tenants liable to pay difficulties as a result of Williams recently won an Energy their landlord the difference between Agency calendar competition the housing benefit payment and welfare reform.” organised in association with their rent. Dumfries & Galloway MSP Russell Brown points out that D & G Council. Her winning Council has already responded to due to housing shortage in the region, poster is used for the month of the implications of the bedroom many will suffer as there will be January in the calendar issued tax by allocating £500,000 to help nothing they can do to avoid the cut. to all schools in the region. people who are facing financial If you would like to apply for a difficulty due to the cuts. The descretionary housing payment, Department of Work and Pensions you can either apply online at (DWP) has increased the money it http://www.dumgal.gov.uk/CH gives the council for discretionary ttpHandler.ashx?id=4762&p=0 housing payments from £72,000 in or can pick up a form from the 2012/13 to £232,000 for 2013/14. local council office in Castle Discretionary housing payments Douglas. are short-term awards given to Gillian Stanyard GLENKENS TO GLASTONBURY How did brothers Ben band The Pictish Trail, now drummer Brendan Greene, lives. Eigg has a thriving completes the line-up for The and Joe Cormack, music culture and vibrant Pictish Trail’s band. Ben says: heavy metal community, and the brothers “It’s very odd to think that, guitarists who grew returned there some years ago after all the years of dedicated up in Balmaclellan, and built a house. heavy metal practice, we found “As The Pictish Trail,” Ben ourselves on the Park Stage end up playing at explained, “Johnny is the as a folk backing band. Having Glastonbury with best-selling artist on the Fife- said that, we bring a rock The Pictish Trail? It’s based label Fence Records, and element to Johnny’s music, and a far cry from the mainly performs on his own. literally let our hair down! He’s We have our own heavy metal a very generous man, and it’s early days of learning band, The Massacre Cave, with been great fun.” Asked what guitar at Kells Primary two mainland friends, and when the best part of playing at with Annie Winstanley Fence Records held their first Glastonbury was, Ben replied, Away Game mini festival on “KT Tunstall said The Pictish and studying with Eigg four years ago, we were Trail was the best act she’d Doug Carroll as surprised to be asked to play. seen all weekend.” teenagers. Johnny was really impressed The Pictish Trail will be playing The connection is the Isle of by our set and that’s how it all at the CatStrand in October - Eigg, where Johnny Lynch, of began.” Another Eigg resident, so book your ticket now! Glenkens Gazette page 17 CYCLING FUN Cool Summer Fun Carsphairn School Parent Teacher There’s loads going on at Cream Committee (PTC) along with o’ Galloway this summer. New for Carsphairn Church Social Committee 2013, Tractor & Trailer rides run applied for funding from Carsphairn daily in the school holidays, there Renewable Energy Fund Ltd (CREFL) are wildlife events during the week and arranged a day of mountain and you even have the chance to biking at Drumlanrig Castle for a make your very own ice cream! The new Tractor & Trailer rides are proving group of pupils from P4 to S3. popular, visiting the highest point of the farm Despite a very damp start, a great day was had for a fabulous view over the Galloway Hills and by all (including the parents who didn’t cycle but Fleet Bay. Everyone’s welcome to join in with walked in the grounds), and hopefully this will ‘Pond Dipping’ on Tuesdays, ‘Night Mammal be done again, as all the children had a great Explorer’ on Wednesdays and ‘Hedgerow Safari’ time. Thanks go to June Hay and Martin Temple on Thursdays - plenty of opportunity to get up close and personal with the wildlife. for arranging the day, and also to Claire and Maggie for providing transport for the children. ‘Ready Steady Freeze’ is a superb activity that continues to thrill both young and old! You Maggie Phillips (Mrs) can be the creator of your very own dream ice cream. This activity is fun for all, great for a birthday party for all ages, and even fantastic fun for a hen party or a family gathering! ‘Ready Steady Freeze’ runs each Monday to Thursday in July & August at 4pm or get in touch to book your own exclusive session for up to 18 people. Call 01557 815 222 or email [email protected] to check availability, or check our website for details - Some of the children with June and Martin. booking is strongly recommended for all events. Glenkens Gazette page 18 A Fair Success Clachan Fair Day Later in the afternoon rounded off a successful Jim Hume week of fun events for conducted the prize giving. the whole family, young Hilda McAdam and old, in Dalry. won the best dressed Despite the rain, which didn’t house/window stop people making most of competition.

the day, The Galloway Pipe and Drums Band & Pipe Galloway Cameron Drums Band led off the parade Wilkie and with the Clachan Lad and Lass Drife Finlay following behind in a open-top Drive and Pet Show. took the under 14s Doubles car, kindly driven by Tom Corrie. The finale on Saturday was an Tennis Tournament trophies evening of Scottish Music in the After much deliberating, judge (kindly sponsored by Natural Town Hall with Ewan McGowan, Jim Hume MSP gave first prize Power), and Drife was the William Williamson and friends, to Dalry Primary with their World overall winner of the Mulloch which was much enjoyed by all. War II evacuees theme, and Race with Joshua Lawrie being Carsphairn Primary received the the first primary entry to finish. The Committee would like to Silver Plate for best vehicle float say a big thank you to all the This year’s fair hosted for the first with their Viking ship theme. volunteers who took the time to time a ‘Fun Show for Dogs’, which help, and also to all the people Events on the school field saw the had over 28 entries and all dogs and local businesses who gave Fire Brigade getting hosed-down and owners behaved impeccably. by the children. so generously throughtout the In the team games, Some other events which took a boys versus girls tug-o-war was won week to make the 2013 Clachan place throughout the week were Fair such a success. by the fairer sex. the Walking Teasure Hunt, Whist THE LIE OF THE LAND PROJECT Dumfries & Galloway has some of the most the NSA together with the Holywood Trust and the beautiful scenery anywhere in Scotland, schools themselves, this project was supported by but many of our youngsters pass through it film maker John Wallace and writer Jackie Galley who helped the young people express and record every day and take it for granted. their responses to places as diverse as the Galloway In addition, the attractions of the X-Box, Forest, Screel Hill and the Carrick Shore. Based Playstation, computer and mobile phone mean that at the Stronord Outdoor Centre, transport was fewer young people than previously now get outside courtesy of the Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI). to investigate the landscape which surrounds them. The final outcomes of this project will be a booklet To redress the balance just a little, the Education and a film which will receive its World Premiere in Department of Dumfries & Galloway Council, Castle Douglas Town Hall on the 27 of September. together with the National Scenic Area (NSA), The Premiere, which has been incorporated into the recently took 18 S2 pupils from four local secondary inaugural Environmental Arts Festival Scotland, will schools (including Dalry) into some of the most be hosted by the pupils themselves, with an invited scenic locations across the Stewartry. Funded by audience of over 250 due to attend. Keith Walker

THE STEWARTRY VETERINARY CENTRE FHB Fencing CASTLE DOUGLAS SURGERY HOURS Dalry Mon-Fri 2.00-2.30 pm & 5-6 pm Sat 2-2.30 pm Domestic and DALBEATTIE SURGERY HOURS Mon, Wed, Fri 3-3.30 pm Tues & Thurs 6-6.30 pm Agricultural FOR APPOINTMENTS AT BOTH SURGERIES Fencing OR IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY  01556 502263  01644 430 495 (Peter) The Fleet Fish van is in the Glenkens VETERINARY SURGERY or 07767 795 498 on Tuesdays & Wednesdays every OAKWELL ROAD week. Anyone wishing me to call, CASTLE DOUGLAS (Jonathan) please phone Mary on above mobile no. Glenkens Gazette page 19 KELLS GTI SCHOOL RUN ENDS After six years of transport must remember this is project run over three days our financial bread-and-butter, by the Education Department providing transport and without such income we involving pupils from Dalry School for pupils travelling to would not be able to cater for the and other schools in the area. and from Kells School, needs of people in the Glenkens. The group stayed at Stronord Educational Centre (see article on Tuesday 2 July was NEW WEDNESDAY p18, opposite). EVENING TIMETABLE the end of the road for FORTHCOMING TRIPS this service operated With effect from Wednesday 7 August, the service operated from More trips will hopefully be added by Glenkens Transport Dalry into Castle Douglas and in due course but the following are dates for your diaries (to Initiative (GTI). back will have a slightly different timetable. The bus will still leave book call 01644 420 374): A review carried out by Dumfries Underhill, Dalry, at 7pm, but will Sat 7 Sept – Glasgow: Silverburn, & Galloway Council into school return from Castle Douglas at Braehead, or visit the city centre transport has meant that 8.35pm, arriving back in Dalry by ferry! transport needs have been at 9.15pm – a lot better in the reduced and GTI have been asked Sat 12 Oct – Carlisle winter evenings, and you will still to provide transport for pupils Sat 2 Nov – Ayr: Shopping, Nat get the same amount of time for from Crossmichael to Castle Hunt Racing, etc. your shopping. Full details of new Douglas instead. It is likely this Sat 7 Dec – Glasgow: Kelvingrove timetable are shown on p22. service will be operated using a area, but easy access to city Rural Transport Solutions vehicle MORE AND MORE centre, etc. belonging to the Council, and will TRANSPORT Thank you to those new involve providing some transport drivers who have volunteered The last few weeks have seen a in the Castle Douglas area to to help us – we still need record number of requests for the Adult Resource Centre. more and free training is still transport and we have never Exact details are not yet known, available, so please get in said ‘no’ – not yet! We recently but we have to remember that touch with me if you can help. being involved in providing such supplied transport for a new Keith Cooper, GTI Administrator

the affects of Aids. However, life along with Malawians carrying MALAWI CYCLE expectancy has gone up from a goat strapped to their bike or Continued from front page... an average of 37 to 57 years, other huge loads of sugar cane, Mulanje hospital covers a so progress is being made. Ian maize, etc. population of 55,000 people, goes on to say: “You wouldn’t “The bike ride took us through many in isolated villages with credit this backdrop of human some stunning and varied little or no health care and misery as the people of Malawi African scenery. The challenge massive problems caused by are so friendly, spontaneous was very well managed and Aids, mother and infant mortality and happy. They have a very we were very well looked during birth, malaria in the wet communal approach to life, after by our tour guide Henck, season and general malnutrition. much of which goes on along the his Kenyan and Malawian 66% of all admissions are Aids- roadside so cycling through gave helpers, our tour doctor and related and the population of us a good opportunity to witness EMMS (the organising charity) Malawi is 50% children due to it. Often we would be cycling representative.”

Family and friends coming to stay? New Galloway Short of space? Golf Club Founded 1902 Cosy country cottage www.nggc.co.uk available (sleeps 4) v 01644 420737 v Call Fiona on Buggies now available for hire 01644 420 227 VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME or 07789 903127 Glenkens Gazette page 20 FIRST WORLD WAR CENTENARY COMMEMORATIONS I believe the time is right to discuss trip around the WW1 war memorials of the Glenkens, a bus trip to the Scottish National War how the people of the Glenkens wish Memorial in Edinburgh Castle, guest speakers to commemorate the centenary of the for a talk(s) in the CatStrand, research/display into how life in the Glenkens changed during and outbreak of World War One. Many immediately after the first world war, a school groups and organisations are now bus trip to Devil’s Porridge exhibition and possibly Quintinshill rail disaster, Glenkens children create beginning their plans and Heritage a memorial plaque/stone/sculpture. Activities Lottery Fund (HLF) grants may be would be either recorded (for DVD) or published available if their criteria can be met. as a book, whichever is most suitable, and this would form a permanent record of how we I have already approached a few groups and commemorated the centenary. Hopefully each individuals who I thought might have useful item would be either subsidised or funded in full ideas and have been encouraged so far, including by an HLF grant. receiving a supportive mail from Alex Fergusson The meeting is to be in the CatStrand Cafe on MSP. Therefore, I have arranged an informal Tuesday 3 September at 4pm. Coffee or Tea is on meeting where views can be aired and we can see me. I would be grateful if you could come along if there are sufficient grounds to continue. with your ideas, or contact me if you cannot make It might make sense to organise a small the meeting: [email protected] or programme of events. Some ideas are: a minibus 07973 174342. Paul Goodwin, Dalry Busy Time at the Golf Club The last couple of and Match Play Championship on Captain’s Day saw 40 members the course. enjoy the competition and then months have been very The Kirkcudbrightshire Golfers refreshments in the clubhouse, busy at New Galloway Association Team Championship where the presentation of prizes also took place on the course, took place. The Jack McQueen Golf Club. with seven teams from the area Quaich was won by Terry Haine, We started with Give Golf a Go, competing for the Shield. The Erica Porteous was the leading a day geared to encouraging New Galloway Team was leading lady, the winning junior was would-be golfers to come up to the last group when Ross Alex Long and the winning and have a go. Then the Murray recorded a 68 to take guest was Michael Sutcliffe. Kirkcudbrightshire Golfers the Shield for Southerness. All The Seniors Open attracted Association held its Stroke Play the players from the other clubs players from near and far, with commented on how good the over 50 people taking part on a condition of the course was. beautiful summer’s day. Two of our Juniors, Scott Jamieson The Open Championship, and Alex Long, competed in sponsored by Natural Power, the Kirkcudbrightshire Junior also attracted a good entry Championship around the from the area and scores were Kirkcudbright course. Playing excellent. in testing conditions, both boys We are now well through the played particularly well with Alex season, but if you are inspired coming second in the Scratch to come and join the Club get in Competition and Scott coming touch on 01644 420 737 or visit in eighth in the Handicap www.nggc.co.uk. Some of the seniors at the Seniors Competition. Open enjoying themselves. Jeff, Captain & Match Secretary T. H. CARSON BUTCHERS See us at Dalry Farmers Market on 2nd Sat each month. We deliver every Thursday Give us a call, no order too small! THE CROSS, MILL ST, DALBEATTIE 01556 610 384 Glenkens Gazette page 21

LOCAL HISTORY with TED COWAN The Man Who Founded religious views. deathbed, New Galloway As patron of whence he Anwoth, Gordon warned “it Sir John Gordon of attempted is pure popery is coming among Lochinvar (1599- to persuade the covenanting you”. Such divided loyalties would minister John Livingstone to haunt the House of Kenmure 1634), founder of New accept the charge and, when he until the execution of the sixth Galloway, did not live to declined, it was offered to Samuel Viscount in 1716. see his dream realised. Rutherford, one of the giants In 1629 Kenmure was granted a of the Covenanting revolution. charter to erect a royal burgh to He was the son of Sir Robert Welch, Livingstone and Rutherford be called the burgh of Galloway on Gordon who was the inspiration all figure in John Howie’s hugely a part of the barony of Earlston, in 1622 behind the proposed influential Scots Worthies (1775), lying upon the Water of Ken. colonization of New Galloway a collection of the biographies (now Cape Breton) in Nova of those who served and/or Commentators have always Scotia, and who “built ships suffered on behalf of the Scottish assumed that the geographical destined to propagate the fame Reformation. Surprisingly description refers to Dalry though of the Scottish name” beyond the perhaps, Sir John Gordon finds the village is not specifically Equator. a place in the book too, largely mentioned in the document. Almost two years later Sir John John was held responsible, because his friend, Rutherford, changed his mind about the site along with his enterprising tended him in his dying months when another charter allowed father, for the illegal seizure of and wrote ‘The Last and Heavenly for the creation of a royal burgh a ship of Middelburg, capital of Speech and Glorious Departure of on part of the lands of Roddings Zeeland, and its cargo. This was John Viscount Kenmuir’ (1649). in the barony of Kenmure. The profoundly embarrassing for The theme concerns new site was probably preferred Charles I who wished at that time because the river ceased to be to maintain good relations with Kenmure’s fears which navigable north of Loch Ken. the Netherlands. From his father gradually turn to joy Robert Gordon, of Knockbrex, is he also inherited savage feuds listed as burgh commissioner of with the families of Herries and and certainty as he ‘Newgalloway’ in the parliament the Earls of Galloway, both sides prepares to meet Christ, of June 1633 which also ratified having to put up sums of 20,000 ‘coming leaping over the the earlier charter authorizing merks as guarantees of good “ane hail and frie burgh royall behaviour. mountains and skipping to be callit in all tyme coming In fact Sir John Gordon appears over the hills’. the burgh of Galloway’” By 1648 to have been of rather a docile In 1633 the king, in Scotland New Galloway, sometimes known nature. While he was growing up for his coronation, created him as Newton, had a provost, one his family stayed at Rusco, near Viscount of Kenmure and Lord of James Gordon. In a taxation rolL Gatehouse of Fleet, as well as Lochinvar but since he disagreed for 1649 the burgh was among at Greenlaw, at the foot of Loch with Charles in matters of politics those that paid the least monthly Ken and, of course, Kenmure and religion he withdrew from amount. It was never to reach Castle which he was credited with Edinburgh supposedly on account its hoped-for potential but it is “having brought to the perfection of his wife’s ill-health. He later of interest to note that a New of a complete fabric as it never claimed that he feared “incurring Galloway in Canada had been was before”. As a young man he the indignation of my prince named some eight years before resided for a time in France with and the loss of further honour”. there was a New Galloway in the somewhat crazed evangelical According to Rutherford he Galloway! Ted Cowan minister, John Welch who was deeply regretted his action on his exiled by James VI for his radical JEFFERS THE GARDENER SAYS...... The best way to raise a successful garden is by trowel and error! ...Nothing discourages an allotment keeper more than watching his family eat the entire allotment at one meal. ...A gardener is a woman who loves flowers, or a man who hates weeds. ...April showers bring May flowers - with the help of spading, fertilizing, planting, watering and weeding! Glenkens Gazette page 22 AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 9.15-11.45am, see p19 Rhythm Boys, 7.30pm, CatStrand JULY Wed 7, Open Stage,7.30pm, Sat 7, GTI Bus Trip, Glasgow: Starts Mon 15, six-week ‘Taking the CatStrand Silverburn, Braehead, see p19 First Steps in Computing’ course, see Thurs 8, Apollo5 in Concert, Dalry Wed 11, Dogstar Theatre: The p7 Town Hall, 7.30pm Baroness - Karen Blixen’s Final Affair Mon 22, Glenkens Children’s Club: Fri 9, The Jones Trio, 7.30pm, by Thor Bjorn Krebs, 7.30pm, ‘Arty Crafty’ Workshop, Glenkens CatStrand CatStrand Community Centre, Dalry, 9.15- Fri 9, Glenkens Children’s Club: Wed 18, David Leddy/Fire Exit: 11.45am, see p19 Jewellery Making, Glenkens Long Live the Little Knife, 7.30pm, Fri 26, Glenkens Children’s Club: Community Centre, Dalry, 9.15- CatStrand Roller Disco, Glenkens Community 11.45am, see p19 Fri 20, Steven Osborne and Jean Centre, Dalry, 9.15-11.45am, see Sat 10, Glenkens Show, Mains of Johnson, 7.30pm, CatStrand p19 Kenmure, New Galloway, see ad Fri 20 to Sun 22, Watson Birds Mon 29, Glenkens Children’s Club: below Festival, mainly in Dalry, see back Treasure Hunt, Glenkens Community Mon 12, Glenkens Children’s Club: page Centre, Dalry, 9.15-11.45am, see Baking, Glenkens Community Centre, Sun 22, Gerry Cambridge Poetry p19 Dalry, 9.15-11.45am, see p19 Reading, 2pm, CatStrand Starts Tues 30, four-week ‘Let’s Fri 16, Glenkens Children’s Club: 1st Thurs 26, Film: The Great Gatsby, Cook’ course, see p7 Anniversary Birthday Party, Glenkens 7.30pm, CatStrand Community Centre, Dalry, 9.15- Fri 27, Roddy Hart and the AUGUST 11.45am, see p19 Lonesome Fire, 7.30pm, CatStrand Fri 16, Film: Song for Marion, 27 Sept – 6 Oct, Wigtown Book Fri 2, Glenkens Children’s Club: 7.30pm, CatStrand Window Decoration Making, Glenkens Festival, see p8 Fri 23, Jaipur Kawa Brass Band & Community Centre, Dalry, 9.15- Sat 28, Dog Olympics, Barstobrick 11.45am, see p19 Curry Night, 7.30pm, CatStrand Indoor Arena, Ringford, see p5 Sat 3, The Stu Brown Sextet: Twisted Toons - The Music of SEPTEMBER Raymond Scott, 7.30pm, CatStrand OCTOBER Mon 2, Balmaclellan CC AGM, 8pm, Sat 12, GTI Bus Trip, Carlisle, see p19 Sun 4, Scottish Alternative Games, Balmaclellan Village Hall start 2pm, New Galloway Town Park Tues 3, Centenary Commemoration Advance Notice of Youth Players’ Mon 5, Glenkens Children’s Club: Meeting, 4pm, CatStrand Café, see Panto: This year’s production will Outdoor Activity/Bouncy Castle, p20 be ‘Aladdin’ on Fri 6 & Sat 7 Dec at Glenkens Community Centre, Dalry, 7.30pm, and Sun 8 Dec at 2pm at Wed 4, Gordie MacKeeman & His the CatStrand.

in the Tossin’ the Sheaf, Hurlin’ the Curlin’ Stane, The Alternative Games Balmaclellan Skittles and Tractor Pull. The racing The Games return to New Galloway Town snails are already in training and will be at peak Park once more on Sunday 4 August for fitness for their big day! the 13th year. If you would prefer to try something musical rather After the rather aquatic nature of last year’s than physical, then you can learn to play the samba televised event, it is to be hoped that it will be lucky drums in time to perform with the rest of the band thirteen and the weather will be a bit kinder this time later in the afternoon. Whatever instrument you play, around. All of the usual favourites will be featured, bring it along and enjoy playing with fellow musicians with everyone having the opportunity to compete in the Acoustic Music Tent. See the back page of this for the Gird n’ Cleek World Title as well as take part Gazette for further details. Brian Edgar

Glenkens GTI WEDNESDAY BUS SERVICE Agricultural Society (registered route) New times start Wed 7 August. Annual Show Outward Journey: Return journey: Saturday 10th August 19:00 Dept. Dalry (Underhill) 20:35 Dept. Castle Douglas (Tesco) Mains of Kenmure, New Galloway 19:05 New Galloway 20:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Poultry, 19:15 Mossdale 20:47 Townhead of Greenlaw Horses, Show Jumping, Fancy 19:25 Laurieston 21:50 Laurieston Dress Pony, Pets & Dogs, Crookmaking, Refreshments, 19:30 Townhead of Greenlaw 21:00 Mossdale Children’s Entertainer - Magic 19:37 Castle Douglas (Market St) 21:10 New Galloway Monty - Magic & Balloon Modelling 19:40 Castle Douglas (Tesco) 21:15 Dalry Schedules from Fiona McIntyre: 01848 200 531 or To book a Glenkens Transport Initiative (GTI) bus or for more information [email protected] please contact keith cooper, GTI Administrator, on 01644 420 374. Glenkens Gazette page 23 REGULAR EVENTS

CatStrand (New Galloway): Paint & Art: Mon, “The Gazette was a great way to 1.30-4.30pm & Exercise to Music: Mon, 10-11am Wed, 7-9pm advertise my new business - Lion Heart Margaret Morris Movement Adult Ballroom & Latin Confidence. I got calls from potential Dance Class, Mon, 2.30-3.30pm, Dance Class: Mon, clients almost straight away. It’s great contact Sara on 01556 612854 7.15, for more info value for money and a good read, making Children’s Dance Class: Mon call Sam Rushton on it an enjoyable way to stay connected and during term time, 3.45-4.45pm age 420 672 3-7, 4.30-5.30pm age 8-15 share information in our community.” Gill Good Neighbours’ Carers’ Coffee & Chat: Tues, Club: Tues, 2pm 10am-12noon 8.30pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Kickback Martial Arts: Thurs, 7-9pm Galloway Teen Spirit: Tues during term time, Thursday Craft Group: Thurs, 2- 7-8:30pm (P7 - S3) and 8-9:30pm Stewartry Camera Club: Wed, 4pm (S3+, Duke of Edinburgh) 7.30pm, Ringford Village Hall, runs Brownies: Wed, 5.30-6.45pm Wed 11 Sept till end Mar Sing it Out: Thurs, 11.30am - Zumba: Wed: 7.30-8.30pm, New 12.30pm Guides: Tue during term-time, Galloway Town Hall, £4 Pilates: Thurs, 4.15-5.15pm & 6.15pm, contact: Kath 430 281 Mossdale Painters: Wed, 9.30am, 5.30-6.30pm Various Locations: Mossdale Village Hall Afternoon Tea Club: 2nd Fri each Texas Hold ‘em Poker, Mon, Cub Scouts: Wed, 6.45–8pm, New month, 2pm 7.15pm, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway Scout Hut Family Film Club: 1st Sat each Galloway Scouts: Thurs, 7–8.30pm, New month, 11am Mother & Toddlers: Tues, 9.45- Galloway Scout Hut Saturday Art Club: 2nd Sat each 11.15am, New Galloway Town Hall Folk Music Session: 1st Sat each month, 10am–12noon Beavers: Tues, 6–7.15pm, New month, 8pm, The Clachan Inn, Dalry Zumbatomic, last Sat each Galloway Scout Hut month,10-10.45am Dog Training: Tue & Wed, 7pm, Catstrand Youth Players: Sun Dalry Town Hall. Contact: Eric 460 Dalry Library (Tel: 430 234) during term time, 2pm 670 Opening Times: Tue: 2-4.30pm Glenkens Acoustic Sessions, last Tai Jitsu: Wed, Junior Class (age then 5.30-7.30pm; Sun of the month, 2-4pm 6-14), 6-7pm; Senior Class, 7- Fri: 11.15am-1:15pm then Glenkens Community Centre 8.30pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn, 2-4.30pm. There are 23 mobile contact David on 07547 134 276, (Dalry): (contact Kath 430 281) library stops - to find out where and see p5 Glenkens Children’s Club: Mon & when please phone. Wednesday Quiz Night, Wed, Fri, 9.15-11.45am ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE Glenkens Community Councils (price per issue incl VAT) Balmaclellan Community Council Dalry Community Council Meetings: SMALL: 6cm x 6cm, £37.80 (+ 10% Meetings: 3rd Monday each month, 1st Monday each month, 7pm, Dalry off with series discount) 7.30pm, Balmaclellan Village Hall. Town Hall. 1/4 PAGE: 9cm w x 13cm h, £81.90 Carsphairn Community Council New Galloway & Kells Community (+ 25% off with series discount) Meetings: Last Monday each month, Council Meetings: 2nd Monday each 1/2 PAGE: 18cm w x 13cm h, 7pm, Lagwyne Hall, Carsphairn. month, 7.30pm, New Galloway Town Hall. £151.20 (+ 25% off with series Full minutes of local Community Council meetings can be viewed at Dalry Library. discount) FULL PAGE: 18cm w x 27cm h, £252 (+ 25% off with series discount) CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: NG Town Hall. 29 Sept, 10.30am, United Sundays: Balmaclellan: 12noon: 1st. Service with Glenkens Choir, Carsphairn Call 07727 127 997 Carsphairn: 10.30am: 1st,2nd (Aug),3rd,4th, Church VAT Reg. No. 882 8361 87 5th (Sept). Dalry: 9am: 1st,2nd(Aug),3rd, 4th. Communion Service: 25 Aug, Dalry: 10.30am: 2nd(Sept). Kells: 10.30am: 10.30am, Kells Church. 2nd (Aug),3rd,4th SCOTTISH USEFUL NUMBERS: EPISCOPAL CHURCH: St Special Services/Events: ● Pot-hole Hotline: 0845 276 0000 8 Sept, Margaret’s, New Galloway: Holy 10.30am, United Family Service, Dalry Communion, 10.30am every Sun & Wed ● Local Police: 0845 600 5701 Church, followed by a bbq & children’s treasure hunt, Manse, Dalry. 22 Sept, CATHOLIC CHURCH ● Doctor: 01644 420 234 10.30am, Harvest Thanksgiving, Kells SERVICES: Gatehouse of Fleet: ● NHS 24: 08454 24 24 24 Church, followed by Harvest Lunch in Sat, 6pm. Kirkcudbright: Sun, 9.30am. Dalbeattie: Sun, 11am ● D&G Council: 030 33 33 3000 Glenkens Gazette page 24

FESTIVAL - FRIDAY 20 TO SUNDAY 22 SEPTEMBER Friday 6 -8pm - Laurie Campbell; Talk & Discussion, CatStrand, New Galloway 6-8pm ‘Watson Raptor Science Prize’ (Presentation, Talk & Debate) official Festival opening, Dalry Town Hall 7-10pm - Whistlebinkies in Concert, Dalry Town Hall 8pm - Classical Concert with Steven Osborne & Jean Sunday Johnson, CatStrand, New Galloway. 10.30-11.30am - Gerry Cambridge Poetry Workshop Saturday (Ages 7-12) 8.30am-12noon - Bird Ringing with Andrew Bielinski, 10am-4pm Exhibition/Shadow Puppetry with Anne Barone, Dalry Errington, Dalry Town Hall. 10am-12noon - Guided Walk with Chris Rollie, meet 10am-6pm - Photography Masterclass, various venues outside Dalry Town Hall (limited availability) 10am-4pm Exhibition/Shadow Puppetry with Anne 1pm - Demonstration with Darren Woodhead, Dalry Errington, Dalry Town Hall Town Hall 10am-6pm - Photography Masterclass, various venues 2-3pm - Gerry Cambridge; Poetry Readings, CatStrand, (limited availability) New Galloway 2-5pm - ‘History of Eagles in Britain & Ireland’ 4-6pm – Acoustic Session, Clachan Inn, Dalry Presentation and Discussion, Lochinvar Hotel, Dalry For any further information or tickets please call The Catstrand on 01644 420 374 and ask for Aaron or alternatively e-mail - [email protected] or visit the Watson Bird website - www.watsonbirds.org.

Wright’s Shop Dalry G&M Newton now under new ownership. New proprietor Lyndsay Forbes and her family look forward to meeting everyone and settling into life in the Glenkens. Licenced grocer and newsagent with a wide range of filled rolls, pies, cold drinks and ice cream also available. Opening Times: Monday to Friday: 7am – 6pm Saturday: 8am – 6pm Sunday: 8.30am – 4pm Tel: 01644 430 225

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Design & co-ordination: Submit events, activities, news stories, cartoons, reviews, tips & Sarah Ade techniques, fiction, photos, ads or ideas... Contact Sarah Ade on [email protected] 07727 127 997 or [email protected] Printing:Stranraer & OCT/NOV COPY DEADLINE: FRI 6 SEPT Wigtownshire Free Press The Glenkens Gazette is an initiative of the Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, a Registered Scottish Charity No. SC032050