MARGARET’S RACE FOR LIFE ON SUNDAY 11th June 2006, Margaret Macdonald joined 12,461 women to take part in the 5km ‘Race for Life’ (http://www.raceforlife.org/) on Glasgow Green, raising money

for Cancer Re-search UK Scot-land. Margaret completed the course in only 35 minutes, which is astonishing given the fact this is the first race she has ever entered! She puts her success down to being supported by 3 sister-in-laws and her nephew’s wife who also com-pleted the race. Margaret’s spon-sorship totals

£405 and she would like to sincerely thank everyone who pledged their support. Sponsorship money is now due but it’s not too late to add to her total for this worthy cause – visit Margaret at Costcutter on Airlie Street.

ALFRED ANDERSON MEMORIAL CAIRN

To be unveiled SUNDAY 1ST OCTOBER 2006

PLANS FOR the cairn erection are well in hand and the base will be installed shortly, followed by the cairn itself. The flagpole, erected by P&K council, should be in place by the end of August. Timings for the event are still to be confirmed but will be well publicized by notices throughout the town. We have a VIP visiting to perform the unveiling ceremony which will take place on Sun-day the 1st October 2006. The Alfred Anderson cairn will be a lasting reminder from the people of Alyth of not just Alfred, but who and what he repre-sented. The oldest man in Scotland at 109 when he died, the last survivor of the Christmas Eve Truce of 1914, the last of the ‘Old Contemptibles’, the last Scottish survivor from the first world war. After the unveiling everyone is invited back to the Town Hall for refreshments. Later in the day, Sunday evening, there will be a concert in the Town Hall given by Perthshire Brass and our newly reformed Pipe Band, with perhaps a few surprises. I can also report that work on the Town Hall foyer is well under way. Alfred’s bust has been received from the sculptor, Tony Mor-row and is currently on display in Kay’s Hairdresser window on Airlie Street. The Napoleonic Bell is due back from sand-blasting shortly. The redecoration of the foyer and kitchen area are also part of this refurbishment. A lot of research has gone into the Town Hall history, much of which is intended to be permanently displayed in the foyer. This research by our hard working Alyth Voice compositor has been an absolute revelation. Amongst other things, the provenance of the Bell has been questioned and its true origin has come to light, suggesting that numerous past articles appear to have been incorrect. Research covered newspapers and the National Archives. Fascinating, illuminating and showing highly motivated, proud Alyth citizens during the second half of the 19th century with a great sense of humour. More of this I am sure will be covered in later issues of the Voice. Last month I referred to the Anderson family memorial seat being sited at the junction of Kirk Brae and Bamff Road. It will be in situ soon and dedicated at 2.30pm on Sunday 3rd September during the final few hours of the Parish Church Flower Festival – an event no one should miss. All are welcome to be present at the dedication. My next and final article will be a report from the day. I look forward to that and on behalf of the Committee hope that everyone will attend and enjoy this unique event dedicated to a unique per-sonality who represents the end of an era. Jim O’Brien, Secretary

Alyth Voice 105th Edition, September 2006

Tel. 01828 633045 Minimum Circulation 1600 Email address: alythvoice@alythvoice.co.uk Website: www.alythvoice.co.uk

RULES - Submit up to 3 photos per person, which you consider to best capture ‘Alyth in Action’ - A5 print format only (no emails please) - Write your name/address/tel.no/age (if under 16) on the back - Pop entries in the Voice Box in Alyth Pet Supplies or post to M. Kay, 13 Airlie St., Alyth - Please note all photos are non-returnable unless S.A.E. supplied - On submission, copyright transfers to the Voice

Prizes to be won!!

ALYTH COMMUNITY COUNCIL presents

The MORRISON’S ACADEMY SWING BAND with soloists and choir

Friday 15th September 7.30pm Alyth Town Hall

Tickets £5 available from Lunans Refreshments

Proceeds to Alyth Alzheimer’s Association and the Alyth Youth Partnership

ALYTH VOICE

‘ALYTH in ACTION’ SUMMER

PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION

CLOSING DATE 15th September 2006

2

ALYTH CHORAL UNION REHEARSALS RESUME on Tuesday 26th September in Alyth Parish Church from 7.30 to 9.30pm. A warm welcome awaits existing mem-bers and new members especially. The Christmas Concert takes place in the Church on Sunday 10th December. More news of the contents in next month’s Voice. This year the choir is under the guidance of Mr Jas. Robertson as Musical Director and Conductor. James returned to Scotland in Au-tumn 2003 after many years absence. He has taught singing for the last eighteen years and has enjoyed a happy musical life, performing mostly in the South West of England, where he has been particularly in demand in Oratorio. He has a wide repertoire from Opera to Scottish songs. In the field of Opera he has performed over 30 roles in some 22 operas, from Mozart to Menotti, in Somerset, Devon and Cornwall. James has previously conducted Teign Choral Society in Devon (nine years), Crediton Choral Society and the Exeter University Choral Society. He has also spent twelve years conducting the choirs of Plym-tree Primary School as part of his work as a peripatetic singing teacher. Most of his training has been under the guidance of Gregory Rose. He approaches choral work very much from the point of view of a singer, concerned with the qualities and contrasts which the voice can achieve. He feels that the conductor’s job is a privilege and that he is very privileged to have been given the responsibility of directing Alyth Choral Union. Janey MacFarlane

Alyth Voice Team Paul Ramsay 01828 632992 Editor paulramsay@bamff.demon.co.uk Irene Robertson 01828 633045 Compositor/Secretary alythvoice@alythvoice.co.uk Margaret Stanford 01828 633083 Advertising advertising@alythvoice.co.uk Paul & Barbara Prettyman 01828 633725 Distribution Margaret MacKenzie Advertising Marjory Macpherson Advertising Michael Kay 01828 632252/632690 Treasurer mike@atcalyth.freeserve.co.uk Derek Todd Webmaster derek@toddalyth.freeserve.co.uk

In order to avoid disappointment please ensure that articles/ads for publication are submitted before the 21st day of each month. Note: The views expressed in the Alyth Voice are not necessarily those of the team nor can they accept any responsibility for

accuracy and spelling of any article.

ARTICLE SUBMISSION to the Voice

Please note ALL articles must be accompanied with a name and address BEFORE they will be published in the Voice.

On request, the name and address may be withheld from publication. Any submission without these details will NOT be included.

Useful Telephone Numbers

Airlie Street Hall (contact-Fiona Dorchester) - 01828 632455 Blairgowrie Police Station - 01250 872222

Perth Police Station - 01738 621141 Hydro-Electric Emergencies - 0800 300999

Scottish Gas Emergencies - 0800 111999 Scottish Water - 0845 6008 855

Alyth Post Office - 01828 632301 Alyth Health Centre - 01828 632317

Alyth Primary School - 01828 632462 Blairgowrie High School - 01250 873445

Alyth Environmental Group - 01828 632907 NHS 24—new 24 hour health service - 08454 24 24 24

If you offer an emergency or breakdown service e.g. Plumber, Electrician, Locksmith, Glazier, Central Heating or any other trade,

please send us your name and number for our useful numbers section

Community Markets

4th Saturday of the Month

from 22nd April

Blairgowrie Wellmeadow

10am –3pm

Strathmore & The Glens PO Box 6621, Blairgowrie PH12 8YF

www.strathmoreglens.org E-mail-: sue@strathmoreglens.sol.co.uk

- - - VOICE TEASER - - - What is Barkit?

Answer to last months Teaser- What is Midyokin? Tea-break

Large Garden 1. Marjorie & Bill Twivey, The White House. 2. In memory of Ken McKenzie, Losset Road. 3. Wilma Stewart, ‘Glen Lee’ 22 Cambridge Street.

Medium Garden 1. John Wright, 2 Cairns Park, New Alyth 2. George Robertson, 45/47 Airlie Street 3. Helen Fraser, 26 Strathmore Terrace

Small Garden 1. W. Mollison, 11 Springbank 2. Patricia Johnstone, 9 High Street 3. Pat Parnham, 9 St Andrews Street

Border 1. John Aitken, 27 Burnside Court 2. Helen Fraser, 26 Strathmore Terrace 3. Harry Nash, 15 Burnside Court

Tubs 1. Paul Chambers, Arnwood, Meigle Road 2. John Kermack, Mart Cottage, Mart Street 3. W. Mollison, 11 Springbank

Baskets 1. W. Mollison, 11 Springbank 2. Nancy Muir, 45/47 Airlie Street 3. John Wright, 2 Cairns Park, New Alyth

Business 1. Steven Ewart, Five Roads Caravan Park 2. Sally Miller, The Singing Kettle 3. J & M Kay, 13 Airlie Street

Best Single Exhibit Paul Chambers, Arnwood, Meigle Road

Best Overall Garden W. Mollison, 11 Springbank

A L Y T H * in * B L O O M *

2006 R E S U L T S

*~*~* Dates for Your Diary *~*~* SEPTEMBER 1st-3rd Flower Festival Alyth Parish Church 3rd Alfred Anderson Seat Donation Kirk Brae/Bamff Road 5th AGM, Lesser Town Hall Alyth Gala Committee 7th Dedication Service - Airlie St. Hall Alyth Parish Guild 7th Jumble Collection Alyth Scout Group 8th Good As New - Town Hall Alyth Scout Group 9th Jumble Sale - Town Hall Alyth Scout Group 9th Coffee Morning - Airlie St. Hall 3rd Alyth Brownies 12th Opening Mtg, Burnside Com. Lounge Silvie & Ruthven WRI 14th Scottish Country Dancing Begins Airlie Street Hall 15th Mor. Acad. Swing Band-Town Hall Alyth Com. Council 15th Voice photographic competition closes - submit your entries! 16th Autumn Fayre - Airlie St. Hall Alyth Parish Guild 18th Social Evening, Ogilvy Rooms Alyth Musical Society 23rd Coffee Morning - Airlie St. Hall Alyth Community Coun. 26th Rehearsals Resume Alyth Choral Union OCTOBER 1st Alfred Anderson Memorial Cairn Unveiling & Concert 3rd Bothy Loons & Ploomen Chiels Alyth Literary Society 5th Scone Palace Talk - Airlie St. Hall Alyth Parish Guild 7th Coffee Morning - Airlie St. Hall Alyth Christmas Lights 8th Trophy Present. - Lesser Town Hall Alyth in Bloom 14th Coffee Morning - Airlie St. Hall St. Ninian’s Church 20th A Musical ABC, Town Hall Alyth Musical Society 21st Coffee Morning - Airlie St. Hall Alyth Bowling Club 28th Coffee Morning - Airlie St. Hall Alyth Scout Group

3

Your Letters

Don’t have access to

email? Alyth Library is now offering FREE access to the Internet for SURFING the WEB / sending

EMAILS Visit the library for

more details...

Ian Miller Local Councillor. SURGERY AT ALYTH TOWN HALL (Old Council Chambers) on 1st TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH AT 7.00PM

OR CONTACT BY Tel: SNP OFF: 01250 876576 Home 01250 873304

Photo left: ALL

ROADS LEAD

TO ALYTH!

Ex-Alyth man, Ian Morrison,

visiting his daughter in Perth,

Australia.

24 The Rath, Milford Haven - NEW email: ian@berries.org.uk EACH SUMMER, I have a week at my sister Margaret’s in Auchterhouse. When there we invariably have an invitation to a meal at cousin Janey & Hamish MacFarlane’s. It is a wonder that we get asked back; we like it so much it usually ends up as half the day or sometimes more. This year we were lucky to be joined in the afternoon by Irene Robertson. Her late father, David, along with his brother, Bert, were my playmates in New Alyth around 1930. There was much enjoyable talk about our families in these early days, as well as catching up on their more recent history and on changes in New Alyth since our time. It was our first meeting and was a delight. Good to see that braw lasses are still emerging from New Alyth! This year there were other visits to Alyth starting with a first visit to the Cenotaph since before the War. It made me ashamed to have taken so long to pay my homage to all those men of my generation who fell and how few of the names I recognised. At least I could find out more about the Merchant Navy men whose names were known to me before the war, and whose ma-rine history is now in the National Archives. Age brings more interest in past lives and a visit to the cemetery, the first since Bert Robertson’s funeral in 1939, was also overdue. It surprised me to see what an attractive place it was with the varied levels of ground and roads and how well it was laid out and kept. I recognised many more names there and recalled the people themselves. Approaching the exit on leaving and seeing the caretaker’s cottage which, in my time had been the home of Mr and Mrs Mitchell and their daughter Margaret, my sombre mood was lightened when I recalled an unexpected meeting of over 40 years ago dur-ing the time I was working on the Thames and living near Gravesend. When Drew Turnbull, Beattie and family came down to visit us, I took him to the most famous pub in the area The Leather Bottle, in Cobham which had Dickens’ associations. As soon as we were seated at the bar, Drew said the woman sitting in the far corner was Margaret Mitchell. When I suggested he was imagining it, the man on the other side of him said Drew was quite right and took us over to meet her. The only time I had seen her before was a chance meeting in Adams, the chemist’s, over the uncertain ownership of a dropped sixpence which another customer had seen on the floor between us. As an awe-struck school boy in the presence of this glamorous woman, I was confused enough not to make a claim until I got outside and realised it had been mine, leaving me with no money for the pictures! She handed it over as soon as I explained. Now there she was, twenty five years later and still beautiful and elegant. It was a short and pleasant encounter. Not sur-prisingly, she did not recall our previous one! We told her about us, but we only learned she was living in the South East and she confirmed her parents were well and still living in Alyth. It was the last we heard of her. Small wonder she had became a model, or mannequin as it was called in our school days, and the most famous woman in Alyth at that time. Now as I passed what had been their home, before joining the main road, I remem-bered what a handsome couple her parents had also been.

Ian Berry

L-R: Ian Berry, Margaret McLaren, Janey & Jim MacFarlane

Peterkin Bridge, Market Square, ALYTH Summer of ‘06

THE ‘Boys on the Bridge’ would like to thank everyone for the post-cards received during the summer. Special thanks to the postmen for delivering the cards to the bridge. We will continue to meet daily dur-ing autumn and winter and look forward to speaking to everybody!

Below L-R: some of the boys - Messrs Peebles, Erskine, Fairweather, Badzmirowska, and Brewster

DEAR ALYTH VOICE, 20th August 2006 I was disappointed to read in last month’s Alyth Voice that the Young Citizen of the Year, John Wheatley, did not get an invite to go to the Garden Party with the Citizen of the Year. Name & Address Supplied

A BIG THANK YOU

to Rev. Neil Gardner for his help when I took ill at his gate. To family, friends and neighbours and the ‘Alyth Angels’ for all their

kind thoughts, flowers and cards during my recent illness. Once again thank you, Mary Mackin

Dear Editor, carry on the good work you are doing with the Voice.

4

Classified

LUNANS

Newsagents

8-10 Airlie Street

We offer all year round newspaper and magazine delivery.

A great selection of cards for every occasion.

A good selection of stationary, toys, wrapping paper and gift bags.

Shop Open- 5.30 am - 5.30 pm Mon-Fri 5.30 am - 4 pm Sat 7.00 am - 1 pm Sun

Telephone – 01828 632330

Envelopes Notepads Pens, Pencils & Gifts

Newspapers

Magazines

Toys

DAVIDSONS CHEMIST

PRESCRIPTIONS DISPENSED

DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE

MINOR AILMENTS SERVICE AND ADVICE ALWAYS AVAILABLE

FROM YOUR LOCAL PHARMACIST 9 Airlie St, Alyth Tel 01828 632302

RENDEZVOUS **HAIRDRESSER**

59 Airlie Street,

Alyth

Tel: 01828 632097 Open Tues - Sat

Gift Vouchers Available

SBEF

James Tripney

Joiner & Undertaker

All aspects of joinery work, domestic & commercial.

Double Glazing etc. House No’s 36 Smythe St 01828 632890 Alyth 01828 632717 Tel/fax: 01828 632260

THE ALYTH TRADITIONAL

FISH BAR Telephone Orders Welcome

01828 632000

Fish Suppers £3.00 on Wednesday for OAP’s

Monday – Thursday 4.30-9 pm Friday 4.30-10 pm Saturday 4.30-10 pm Sunday 4.30- 8 pm

PETS PANTRY

19 High Street Blairgowrie

Tel: 01356 623006 Keith Nicol

Traditional Acupuncture in Blairgowrie

Acupuncture can help a variety of symptoms and health problems

Free 15 minute consultations available in Blairgowrie to discuss whether acupuncture may be helpful.

Practitioner is fully qualified and insured and is a member of the British Acupuncture Council.

Judith Bryden MA(Hons)LicAc.MBAcC. Contact Judith at 01250 876345 or

07762 188418 (mobile)

FURNITURE STORE PERTH STREET, BLAIRGOWRIE

(Adjoining Shell Garage)

COME ON IN AND HAVE A BROWSE

BEDS– from £69; 2 and 4 Drawer Divans; Metal and Pine Beds; Mattresses; Headboards; Pine Bedroom Furniture;

Ex-Catalogue Suites; Pine and Beech Look Bedroom Furniture;

Dining room Sets and all types of furniture and furnishings. Stock Changes Weekly

ALL AT DISCOUNT PRICES

COLIN & CATHY FORD Number 5 Toutie Street, Alyth

CHIROPODY SUGARING, FACIALS

EYELASH/BROW TINTING PEDICURE, MANICURE

by CREATIVE NAILS **Late Nights Tues. & Thurs.**

For an Appointment Tel:01828 632297

David Scott Ltd FUNERAL DIRECTORS & MONUMENT AGENTS

Also Golden Charter Pre-Paid Funeral Plans

7 Toutie Street Alyth Open Tuesday Mornings 9 a.m.-11.45 a.m.

Or by appointment Our staff are happy to assist with all enquiries

A 24 hour service is maintained on 01828 633 433

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

Open Monday-Friday 8.30am-5.30pm Saturday 9am -5pm

* Special Offer on Compost - Levingtons 75Kg * * Buy 3 for £12.00 *

GEO’s BAR GEO’s BAR GEO’s BAR & & &

THISTLE LOUNGETHISTLE LOUNGETHISTLE LOUNGE AIRLIE STREET, ALYTH

Tel : 632276 Fax: 633939 Email: thisletopia@aol.com

Lounge available for meetings

FOOTBALL ‘LIVE’ on Digital & Five

The family business who care

Personal service guaranteed

Director

Garden Cottage, Bardmony House, Alyth PH11 8NY

Alyth Decorators

Pat McAuley

Tel: 01828 633831

Mobile: 07712 732 909

Licensed Grocers

National Lottery outlet.

Video & DVD rental.

Irvines Butcher Meat

Dry Cleaning: Shoe Repair

Credit/Debit card facility now available

FREE HOME DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE Telephone Orders Welcome Tel No: 01828 632306

73-75 Airlie

St. Alyth

MEG’S MINI MARKET 22Commercial Street

Alyth Tel: 01828 633143

OPEN: Mon Tues Thurs Fri - 9am to 4:30pm

Sat - 9am to 5pm Wed – 9am to 1pm

*Winter Bedding Plants Now in Stock*

5

ALYTH CLIMATE ACTION TOWN PROJECT PERTH AND KINROSS households produce on average over a tonne of waste per year, that's equivalent to the weight of an average family car. This planet can not sustain this level of use of resources or disposal of waste indefinably. We need to act responsibly and reduce, reuse and recycle whenever we can. (there is no excuse for dumping rubbish in the burn or the Den!) Alyth recycling point accepts steel and aluminium cans, glass (clear, green and brown), paper (newspaper, magazines, office quality paper), clothes and textiles. In addition Blairgowrie recycling centre accepts bulky goods, car batteries, cardboard, electrical & electronic equipment, engine oil, fridges & freezers, garden waste, metal, plastic (natural HDPE & PET), and tyres. Although recycling is part of the solution there is much we can do in order to reduce our waste. We can prevent or reduce waste before we even think about disposing of it. Some suggestions: • use long life or material bags for your shopping • register with a Mailing Preference Service to prevent unwanted

mail • try composting some of your kitchen and garden waste • use rechargeable batteries • as much as possible avoid disposable items such as razors, dust-

ers, nappies and tissues. Instead buy washable hankies, dusters and nappies and reusable razors

• mend clothing • donate old furniture, clothing, books, toys, games and CDs to

charities or local initiatives • try buying recycled products • look for items that use the minimum amount of packaging, loose

fruit and veg for example There are number of reuse initiatives in Perth and Kinross such as Re Cycles, the Perth Bike Recycling Project.

All unwanted bikes are refurbished in the work-shop and then redistrib-uted to disadvantaged members of the commu-nity, or will be sold at very affordable prices to help finance the pro-ject's continuation. All bikes are accepted, in any condition, because even the oldest bike will have at least a few parts on it that can be taken off and used as spares. If you have a bike that you want to pass on to the project, please get in touch with Nick Marks at perthbikeproject@ btconnect.com or call on 01738 628268, or alter-natively take your bicy-cle to a Recycling Cen-tre. Clive Bowman

J. & M. KAY

Ladies & Gents Hairdressers

13 Airlie Street Alyth

Tel: 01828 632252

Glenfernate Fresh Meats

Enochdhu, Blairgowrie PH10 7PL Tel: 01250 881 215 Fax: 01250 881 780

Email: sales@glenfernate.com www.glenfernate.com

Beef, Lamb & Venison Direct from a Local Perthshire Farm

delivered to your door Bred here and raised naturally with no intensive rearing, hormones or additives. Properly hung, cut and prepared on the farm. Just good meat that is tender and full of flavour with no fancy seasonings needed to give it taste. The venison is from our own wild deer from the same hills that the sheep and cattle graze. If you are not satisfied, we will replace or refund in full.

LAMB PACK £30 Leg of Lamb approx 1.5kg (3lb) 1kg (2lbs) Rolled Shoulder 450g Diced Shoulder 4 Dble loin chops 4 Leg Steaks 4 Noisettes 1 Pack Lamb Burgers (1/4 pounders)

BEEF PACK £35 3x 450g (lb) Steak Mince 3x450g Diced Shoulder 1kg Topside Rst 1kg Silverside Rst 450g Braising Stk 230g Frying Stk 450gStk Saus. 450g Lorne Saus. 1 Pack Steak Burgers ( 1/4lb)

BBQ PACK £25 2 Packs of Stk Burgers 1 Pack of Lamb Burgers

1 Pack of Venison Burg. 1 Pack of Pork & Apple Burg. 1 Pack of Stk Saus.450g 1 Pack Lamb Saus.450g. 1 Pack Venison Saus 450g 1 Pack Pork Saus. 450g 1 kg Frying Stks appx.6 450g Lamb Leg Stks appx.4

VENISON PACK £30 1 Haunch of Venison 1.5kg(3lbs) 2 Venison Stks. 3x450g Diced Ven. 3x450g Ven. Mince 450g Venison Saus. 1 pack Ven. Burgers

Plus free delivery in the local area

We deliver every Friday in the Blairgowrie/Alyth Area. For more information, for a price-list with all our cuts and produce, or to place an order, contact Ann, by telephone, fax or email. ‘Glenfernate Fresh Meats are licensed Game Dealers’

THE PROPERTY SHOP ALYTH

A & R Robertson & Black, W.S., 11 Airlie Street, Alyth, PH11 8AH

Tel: 01828 632 116 Website:www.robertson-black.co.uk

Email: property@robertson-black.co.uk

FREE VALUATIONS It’s knowledge of your local patch,

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BLAIRGOWRIE PROPERTY SHOP IS OPEN 7 DAYS!

Call Mel on 01828 632 116

RAGWORT by Paul Ramsay AT SPEY BRIDGE near Newtonmore on the A9 there are two mead-ows on either side of the river. The last time I passed them on a rainy Sunday in August they were bright with the yellow flowers of ragwort. Two ponies grazed in the meadow on the eastern side of the road. As I drove on south through Badenoch I wondered how much grass they were finding beneath that bright canopy. The next day I had to drive to Drymen. While motoring along the straight piece of road after Auchterarder I spied a couple of Council workmen (I suppose that is what they were), cumbersomely clad in shiny yellow, spraying the one or two ragwort plants they encountered. I reflected on the absurdity of sending two men to spend time in this way, but then, of course, the common ragwort (Senecio jacobaea) is listed in the Weeds Act of 1959. It is one of those plants the very presence of which on a piece of ground renders the farmer, or landowner, liable to complaint. You may wonder why. Is this not rather extreme? What can be so awful about some wretched plant that it deserves to be utterly rooted out and destroyed? The simple answer is that ragwort is poisonous to cattle and horses. It is said that a horse may have to eat only one kilogramme of fresh ragwort to die of it; which is in itself an odd proposition be-cause you might think that any horse with its wits about it would notice the bitter taste of the plant and not eat any more. One thing I have won-dered since was how many horses would be passing along the dual car-riage way beyond Auchterarder and grab at a tempting ragwort plant. The answer, to quote the old toast, could be ‘Gey few and they’re a’ deid’. Generally speaking, however, cattle and horses avoid ragwort as long as it is alive, and there is enough grass for them to eat, and so it does not present a serious problem at that stage but, if the plant is cut and incorporated into hay, animals can recognize it no longer, so they eat it and fall ill, or may even die if they have eaten enough. Another side of the ragwort story is that the species is valuable as the host to a remarkably wide variety of insects, for which it is an important source of nectar, and so plays a substantial part in the vital story of the pollination of plants. This list includes the beautiful Cinnabar moth, which depends on ragwort as its food plant. Here is a list that I found on the web site of Buglife (The Invertebrate Conservation Trust): ‘Ragwort is a major nectar source for many insects, especially: Solitary bees (at least 30 species: 38 cited in one list).- Solitary wasps (at least 18 spe-cies; not the sort to harm people). - Hoverflies (many species).- Cono-pid flies (parasitic on solitary bees and bumblebees).- Butterflies (Small Copper, particularly where other flowers may be scarce)- Moths at night (including at least 40 noctuid moths)’. (http://www.buglife.org.uk/) Buglife’s fact file on ragwort is a very interesting document and well worth a visit: http://www.buglife.org.uk/html/project_ragwort_fact_file.htm Common ragwort grows on light soils of the kind preferred by rab-bits. In fact, close grazing by rabbits creates the conditions that enable the seeds to germinate and flourish. Grazing by sheep can help to keep the sward right for ragwort, too, and they can eat the plants without harming themselves. The seeds of ragwort tend not to disperse very far (very little more than around thirty-six metres according to research carried out in New Zealand, though most falls within five metres of the parent plant). Up to ninety per cent of the seeds may germinate in very favourable conditions. Ragwort becomes a problem mainly as a result of grazing management that favours it. The answer seems to be to make life difficult for rabbits one way or another and not to graze too many sheep on sandy soils, especially where horses may be kept.

6

Neighbours.......everybody needs…! Being a good neighbour means being a considerate neighbour. It makes sense to be considerate to your neighbour as with their help you can significantly reduce your risk from crime and disorder. Top neighbourly tips… • ask your neighbours to keep an eye on your home if you are going away, and offer to do the same for them. • ask your neighbour to push your post through the door while you are away. • keep an eye out for your elderly neighbours who are more at risk from Bogus Callers. • if you see someone acting suspiciously in your neighbour hood, contact the local Police. • if you witness a crime or know any information that may help the police then call CRIMESTOPPERS confidentially on 0800 555 111 Most importantly, make an effort to know your neighbours – start-ing or joining a Neighbourhood Watch scheme is a good way to do this. You may also make a saving on your house insurance too. If you would like more information on Neighbourhood Watch and how to join or go about setting one up in your street, then please contact Blairgowrie Police Office and ask for one of the Community Liaison Officers. Drink Drivers We continue to deal with a number of individuals who take a risk with their own, and the lives of others by getting behind the wheel of the car after a few drinks. However, there are those who repeat-edly offend and believe they will not be caught. Police officers deal with too many tragic and fatal accidents due to drink drivers. Help us to reduce that number and make our roads safer. If you know of someone who drinks and drives then report the facts to the Police. You can report via telephone to Blairgowrie Police office 01250 872222 or anonymously to CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111.

Constable Mark Stewart

Police Update THE ALYAN ‘You are not alone’

GREETINGS EARTHLINGS. After six of the belt from the head-master (See Ed’s comments last issue) I have resolved (a) to get my column in earlier and (b) to utilise the email. So don’t blame me if this all goes awry…I’m a bit of a technophobe, despite my high tech spaceship. In fact my present home, in the wee park suits me just nicely. I’m thinking about submitting a planning application for a conservatory!! Nice to see the ‘Parliament’ has reconvened on the bridge. I was beginning to think that they were away for their sum-mer recess. Welcome back lads. ‘Jam in the Den’ was a resounding success and well done to the various musicians who freely contrib-uted their time and their talents to the event. I would argue with the figure of 500 attending…by the time I left, about 9.30pm – there were easily over a thousand people in the Den. It was especially nice to see our seasonal visitors from Eastern Europe attending in such large numbers and enjoying themselves. Music is an interna-tional language. I think a special thank you must be directed to Morna Bissett for her work in organising the event. I was getting dizzy watching her rush back and forth over the venue. Well-done Morna! What can I say about July and beginning of August weather? We’ve seen temperatures soaring and blazing sunshine. Certainly there have been several humid and muggy days, but over-all, it has been grand. We could do with an extended period of gentle rain now to help the crops and gardens, not to mention the poor burn. Speaking of which, it is interesting to observe that in the small park, just below the bridge is a large area, once concreted, with stepped seating, that obviously was once a paddling pool. The concrete remains of a dam, holding the pool water back are still evident. Has anyone ever considered restoring said facility? I’m sure that safety factors, not to mention insurance liability would legislate against it, but it might be feasible. Lottery funding per-haps? Any thoughts anyone? A couple of weeks ago, I observed a team of surveyors, with their tripods, etc. in the small park putting in markers and continuing down the burn path towards the water treat-ment plant. I told them I was going to start a rumour that this was to be the new bypass for Alyth! Look what that process did for Coupar Angus, Arbroath and Auchterarder. Not a single moan this month and regrettably no humorous closing. Have to remember this is a family publication. Enjoy the sunshine and I’ll see you next month.

EACH YEAR many fires are directly attributable to the use of dam-aged or worn electric blankets. These fires cause the death of up to 20 people each year and injure in excess of 200. Most of the casualties are over 60 years of age. Does your electric blanket need replacing? Check the blanket and its lead for the following signs of

• Fraying fabric • Scorch marks • Exposed elements • Creasing or folding • Soiling • Wear and tear • Damp patches • Damaged or missing tapes • Worn lead • Loose connections

Get your blanket tested by an expert every three years. For details of who can test your blanket, ask the shop where you bought it or contact your council’s Trading Standards Department. Replace electric blan-kets every 10 years. Never buy second-hand blankets and look out for the British or European safety mark. Use your electric blanket safely • Always follow the instructions. • Leave a blanket switched on all night ONLY if it has thermo-

static controls that make it safe to use all night. Otherwise, switch it off and unplug it before you get into bed.

• Don’t get an electric blanket wet. • If it gets wet, don’t use it until it is completely dry. Never

switch it on to dry it. • Store electric blankets flat or rolled – never fold them!

Appointment System- If you need your blankets tested you must call the Environment Helpline No 01738 476476 from Monday 21st August during office hours only 9.00 am – 5.00 pm. You will then be given an appointment time and told which centre to attend. Each test takes around 6 minutes and afterwards you will be given a test result certificate. Should the blanket fail and be condemned then a voucher up to half the cost of a new one will be supplied.Testing ven-ues will be located in Perth, Blairgowrie, Pitlochry and Aberfeldy. Roy Davidson of Tayside Fire & Rescue said ‘As part of our aim to make our communities safer, I would urge everyone who has an elec-tric blanket to take the opportunity to have it tested to ensure that it is in good working order”.

ELECTRIC BLANKET TESTING

JOHN SWINNEY Your local Member of the Scottish Parliament for North Tayside is here to help you.

You can contact John at 35 Perth Street, Blairgowrie, PH10 6DL Tel. 01250 876576 Fax. 01250 876991

email john.swinney.msp@scottish.parliament.uk

7

MUIR DRIVING SCHOOL

Dave Muir DSA Approved Driving Instructor

Pass Plus Registered

Intensive Courses Available Tel: 01250 870725 Mob: 07732-531767

Book Ten Lessons Only- Pay For Nine

Carpet Care Carpet Care Carpet Care

Carpet, Upholstery and Leather Cleaned and Protected

Neil Stewart Call for a Free Quote:

01828 632771 or 01250 875216

Classified

Specialised Dementia Care

in a Domestic Setting . RESPITE CARE

. RESIDENTIAL CARE . SELF CONTAINED DAY CARE UNIT

All bedrooms en-suite: Beautiful Enclosed Gardens : Home Cooking & Baking with Choice of Menu:

Trained Staff to promote independence and choice.

www.hopeparkhouse.co.uk

Tel 01250 872349 Balmoral Road, Rattray, Blairgowrie

R. D. BuildersR. D. BuildersR. D. Builders

For Free Estimates

Tel: 01828 632231 or Mobile 07729924784

19 Tay Road Alyth, Perthshire PH11 8EB

Stonework

Extensions Renovations

Harling Etc.

GRANGEMOUNT CATTERY

Aberbothrie, Alyth SPECIAL DIETS CATERED FOR

INDIVIDUAL HEATED CHALETS Set in the quiet rural setting of beautiful Strathmore

PERSONAL ATTENTION FROM THE OWNERS

DENNIS & LIBBY MELLOY

Tel: 01828 632284

CLASSIC RESTORATIONS

Let us make your day extra special with our unique collection of classic Rolls Royce Silver Cloud, Bentley Mk V1 & Jaguar Mk 1X.

Pitnacree St, Alyth,

Wedding Hire

Tel:01828 633293

AIRLIE GARAGE ALYTH

Telephone: 01828 633363

Servicing, Mechanical &, MOT Repairs Welding & Steam Cleaning

Panel Beating, Spray Painting and Restoration.

All Jobs Considered

Free Estimates Tyres at competitive prices

Winter Tyres Studded and Wheels Balanced Breakdown Recovery and Car Transportation Service

Quality Used Cars For Sale Open 9 am ‘til late

4WD Specialist Cars & Light Goods Vehicles Servicing and Repairs Bike & Car MOT Testing Tyres & Exhausts Bike & Car Oils

G CLARK PLASTERING & TILING

Walls & floor tiling Harling Coving

Plastering Dry Lining

Ames taping Wet Dash

NO JOB TOO SMALL FREE QUOTES

TEL:01828 633970 or 07821294678

Driving Made easy

Contact Colin Sidley Home: 01828 633 017 Mobile: 07751072408 Text: ‘PRICE’ to my mobile number for information Email: colin.sidley@virgin.net

Lessons available by the hour or in block bookings

Pass Plus Registered Member of the Driving Instructors Association

Stewart MacDonald

Electrical Contractor

Tel: 01828 632995

8 Cambridge Street Alyth

PH11 8AW

CHIROPODIST H.P.C. REGISTERED

TRISHA WALTON

HOME VISITS 01828 640229

8

http://www.alythyouthpartnership.org.uk ALYTH YOUTH PARTNERSHIP Summer Programme Report 2006 by Paul MacFarlane

THE 2006 summer programme was devised to provide quality positive diversionary activities to the young people of Alyth. The aim was twofold, firstly to educate, inform and entertain the participants, secondly to reach a large age range and raise the AYP profile within Alyth. During the summer holidays, participants had the opportunity to engage in a variety of activities from fitness training to graffiti art, 1 week courses or 1 day activities providing a superb choice of activity and commitment.

Football Fitness This programme was run in partnership with Alyth Boys’ Football Club and was aimed at introducing healthy living, focusing on fitness training through the use of football. The age range was typically from p1-p7 with up to 45 places available each day. The course ran every Monday during July and provided participants with football training, match and healthy eating BBQ. Medals were awarded to individu-als who showed good character and sportsmanship during the day and all received a certificate of attendance.

Personal Development Programme PDP The PDP has evolved since the original programme 3 years ago. Responding to the feedback of former participants various elements of the course have been ad-justed or removed. The aim of the PDP is to increase the self esteem and self confi-dence of the participants through activity based programming. Run over 4 days with the cooperation of other agencies such as Perth & Kinross Council, NHS Tayside, Strathmore Centre for Youth Dialogue and Dunolly Adventure Sports, the PDP ad-dressed issues about drug use, sexual health, social perceptions, citizenship, team-work, leadership, map reading, fitness and politics. The course catered for 6 participants each week for 4 weeks and culminated with gorge

walking through the hills of Aberfeldy. Participants responded well to this mentally and physically challenging course providing excellent feedback about their experiences. Talking about the drug edu-cation section of the PDP, Billy said “I have learned more about drugs in one morn-ing than I have in an entire year in Social Education at High School”. Susan said “This was much more interesting as it focused on what we are most likely to come into contact with.” When asked about the physical challenge of the hill walk, the participants all agreed that this had been difficult but worth the effort. Tim said “I don’t think I have ever walked so far before, at least I know that I can do something like that again.” It is important to note that these challenges are assessed as the groups pro-gress and it is possible to fail. One particular group did fail the hill walk after only one checkpoint, due to losing the list of grid co-ordinates. This allowed for the youth worker to address the issue of failure and provide coping mechanisms for deciding the way forward. The group responded well and morale actually increased which forced a stronger bond between group members allowing for a tight support network. This was evidenced by all participants of this group completing a 25ft leap from cliffs into a waterfall, show-

ing positive encouragement, support and feedback amongst the group. For all those that completed the PDP there is further opportunity to test the newly developed skills through continued adventure training in October.

Graffiti Art This week long programme is designed to allow for participants to explore their creative talents through the medium of graffiti art. Run in partnership with Martin MacGuinness (former Alyth Young Citizen of the Year), the course explores the morale and legal responsibilities of the artist when developing a piece. The course offered spaces for up to 20 participants to develop 3 pieces of art. The first piece for their bedroom, the second for their youth club and the last piece to be developed on the half-pipe. The participants were taken through the design and development process having created their own sketches and then

realised them in prac-tice. Although not very well attended various quality pieces were created and the enthusiasm of the partici-pants was second to none. Plans for developing the programme were discussed and as a result a Graffiti Arts festival is to be developed for the October programme in order to raise awareness of the Graffiti Arts programme. Adventure Training Weekend This weekend was designed in order to give the participants an opportunity to push themselves mentally and physically to complete various challenges. The course offered 12 places over a weekend and provided activities such as raft build-ing, ropes course, crate climbing and gorge walking. Interestingly the participants who had recently completed the PDP showed greater competency when approaching the teamwork tasks. Leadership qualities within these individuals was also in evidence by taking charge of groups to complete tasks. All participants who attended indicated that they had enjoyed themselves and requested further activities during the winter season such as skiing or snowboarding.

9

All joinery work undertaken

For more information contact Derek Fairweather on

07740 986 069

MURDO FRASER MSP MID SCOTLAND & FIFE

For help and advice. Look for details of regular surgeries in the local Press,

or you can contact Murdo on 01738 553 990 to arrange a meeting; or write to him at-

Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh, EH99 1SP; or email him at -

murdo.fraser.msp@scottish.parliament.uk

Established 1975

MURRAY PENNYCOOKMURRAY PENNYCOOKMURRAY PENNYCOOK

PLUMBING & HEATING GAS, OIL & SOLID FUEL

Clar-Innis, Meigle Road, Alyth

Tel: 01828 632135 Mobile: 07850-733-481 Oil –Gas –Solid Fuel

Corgi & SNIPEF Registered Rhones - Lead Work –Drains

Free Estimates

Charles A Davidson

Blacksmith, Welder and Fabricator

Gates and Rails made, erected and repaired All fabrication and farm work undertaken

Tel: 01828 632948 Mobile: 07957-766546

Airlie Computers Simon Bogle

Computer Repairs and Upgrades Tel: 01828 632244 Mobile: 07732 524139

9.00am to 9.00pm, Monday to Saturday Free Estimates, Site Visits

New and Used Computer Sales Help, Advice and Training

Website Design and Hosting www.airliecomputers.co.uk

• Drystone Dyking • Stone Garden Features • Stone Planters and Seating • Wall Repairs • and Pointing • Patios, Paths and Decking • Roof Repairs and Guttering Robert Miller Cherrybank Cottage, Leitfie Terrace, New Alyth, PH11 8NF

I&D Insurance Services

We have secured special rates for All PH, DD and KY postcodes

Extremely competitive premiums for both Household and Private Car

Quotes provided without obligation. Going on holiday?

Let us arrange your travel insurance.

Your local broker serving your local community 16 Airlie Street

Alyth 01828 633000

Email: IandDinsurance@aol.com

ROBERTSON’S DAIRY BALKEERIE

BY GLAMIS FORFAR Tel/fax 01307 840431

Suppliers of milk, cheese, butter, cream, eggs, yoghurts, rolls, and many other dairy products to

Private Houses, Hotels, Restaurant, schools, Nursing Homes, etc. in Alyth, Blairgowrie,

Coupar Angus, Burrelton, Woodside, Meigle, Newtyle and Auchterhouse

Ash Chimney Systems

Call Simon on

01382 580245 or 07709-340575

Professional Chimney Sweep Prompt and reliable –

a clean sweep guaranteed. Pots, Bird guards and Cowls fitted.

GEORGE W. RENNIE 2 St. Malcolm’s Wynd

Kirriemuir

Tel: 01575 573292 Mobile: 07711 818238

Repairs Spares & Servicing Washing Machines, Cookers, Tumble dryers & Vacuums.

Cycle Repairs & Spares by Post mary.rennie@tiscali.co.uk

Classified THE ORGANIC HUT

South West Fullarton, Meigle Tel - 01828 640391

Wednesday 1pm—6pm Friday 1pm—6pm Saturday 10am—5pm

Half mile south of Meigle on Dundee

Road. Follow signs

Visit us for a wide range of organic fruit and vegetables. Other organic goods include eggs, various teas,

oatmeal and chocolate. We also stock Ecover products, soaps and

recycled paper goods.

Alyth Pet ShopAlyth Pet Shop 17 Airlie St, Alyth Tel: 01828 633555

OPEN: Mon Tues Thurs Fri - 9am to 4.30pm Sat - 9am to 5pm Wed - 9am to 1pm

Large Selection of Tropical Fish, Accessories and Foods

Good selection of Dog Foods

Tinned Foods for Dogs and Cats

Pet accessories

If not in stock we can order

THE BURNSIDE INN 4/6 Mill Street

Alyth Tel: 01828 633 356

***** Beers, Wines, Spirits

Covered Smoking Area Beer Garden

Children welcome Baby changing facilities

Parties catered for - golf, fishing, etc

*****

For all the usual garden services including

gravelling, paving and fencing.

It is now time to book your hedge cutting

Winter bedding is now available for plant-

ing and can be arranged for you

Tel Big Gav on 07739 833595

BIG GAV BIG GAV BIG GAV

BARONY VIEW GROUND

MAINTENANCE HAY STREET

ALYTH

10

PUBLIC NOTICES

MOTHERS & TODDLERS Do you enjoy a cuppy and a natter? If so, come

along & join our group. New members welcome. We can be found in the Ogilvy Rooms, Commer-

cial Street, on Mondays, Tuesdays & Fridays from 9.45-11.15am. Children welcome from birth to

pre-school. So come along & join us soon. Info? Call Kathleen (633266)

ALYTH PLAYGROUP is held within the Community Wing of

Alyth Primary School. We are open Tuesday & Thursday 9.15-11.15am. Playgroup is

open to all children aged 2-preschool (no need to be out of nappies).

Call Kathleen on 633266 to enrol.

Alyth Christmas Lights 200 Club

AUGUST 2006 DRAW

£50 No. 135 - Mrs M Twivey £30 No. 92 - Miss V Brown

£20 No. 97 - Mrs M Mowatt

Alyth Parish Church SEPTEMBER FLOWER FESTIVAL

~ over 25 floral displays ~ OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Friday 1st & Saturday 2nd 10am-12noon, 2-4pm, 7-9pm

Sunday 3rd 2-4pm All welcome!

SONGS OF PRAISE EVENING SERVICE 3rd September 6pm

www.alythparishchurch.org.uk

ALYTH~in~BLOOM Garden Trophy Presentation

Lesser Town Hall, Alyth Sunday, 8th October 2006.

2.30pm ~ All Welcome

FINDLAY (Thanks)

Jane and I would like to thank most sincerely all our neighbours, friends and relatives for the beautiful cards, flowers, plants and home baking handed in whilst I was in hospital. Also, Alyth Health Centre nurses and Dr Young for their unfailing attention and all the support given to Jane. I am now home and feeling much better. Thank you all, Teen.

ALYTH MUSICAL SOCIETY presents

“A MUSICAL ABC” On Friday

20th October at 7.30pm in Alyth Town Hall

(Tickets at the door or from members) ANNIE said to her friend ANNIE GET YOUR

GUN and we’ll go on THE BANDWAGON ‘cos ANYTHING GOES with THE ARCADI-

ANS who are hoping to find ASPECTS OF LOVE but BEAUTY AND THE BEAST say

BYE BYE BIRDIE so off they go to see BLOOD BROTHERS at the CABARET where there is a CHORUS LINE playing CHESS on a

CAROUSEL in CAMELOT.

ALYTH PARISH CHRUCH GUILD The Guild commences the new

session on Thursday, 7th September 2006

with a Dedication Service conducted by the Revd Bill Ewart in the Airlie Street Hall at 7 pm.

All are welcome

SILVIE & RUTHVEN WRI New venue. Meetings will now take

place in Burnside Community Lounge. Opening meeting 12th Sept. 7pm

Illustrated talk "Loch o’ the Lowes" by Pete Ferns. Join us for cheese & wine

You will be made very welcome. Meetings will take place every 2nd

Tuesday of the month at 7pm ALYTH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

Coffee Morning 23rd September 2006

ALYTH COMMUNITY COUNCIL is hold-ing a coffee morning on 23rd September in the Airlie Street Hall. We will once again be offering super raffle prizes – including cash, shopping vouchers and good quality items. Other attractions will include a cake and candy stall, tombola and whisky trail. We will also run a bric-a-brac and book stall again this year. This was very popular last year and we hope to include a sale of ex-Library books at bargain prices. Come early for a good rummage! Anyone with items to donate (no ‘jumble’ please) can phone Pat on 633521 for uplift. Donations for the cake and candy stall would also be much appreci-ated. We are very grateful for the support of the local business community who are so gener-ous with donations of prizes and vouchers. All money raised goes back into the Alyth community – we are always open to requests and suggestions for sponsorship of events and groups. Pat Parnham

ALYTH SCOUT GROUP GOOD AS NEW/JUMBLE SALE

TOWN HALL Thursday 7th SEPTEMBER - collection Friday 8th - Good as New 7-9pm

Saturday 9th - Jumble Sale 2-4pm

WANTED PAPER DELIVERY PEOPLE

(Age 12 or over, or retired person) TEL: ALYTH 632321

ALYTH & DISTRICT PIPE BAND The members and committee of Alyth & District Pipe Band would like to thank the committee of Alyth Show for their kind donation of £200 and Scottish & Southern Energy for their donation of £500 towards band funds. The 'band' meet on a Monday at the Guide Hut- beginners 7-8pm & playing members 7-9pm-Tel: Jackie 633369

ST. NINIAN’S COFFEE MORNING October 14th Airlie Street Hall

10-12 noon USUAL STALLS

D. Oldham, St. Ninian’s Church

Alyth Musical Society always welcomes new members, so why not

come along and meet us at our social evening on Monday 18th September at 7.30pm in the Ogilvy Rooms, prior to commencement of rehearsals for our April 2007 production of the musical BLUEBEARD. We are also looking

for someone to help with distribution and collec-tion of sponsorships which is vital to putting on

our show. Further details about either from Marjorie Twivey 01828 632494.

ALYTH PLAYGROUP

Relief Play-Leader Wanted No qualifications needed but

applicants must be enthusiastic and flexible. Experience of working with young children

would be an advantage. This post is subject to checks by Disclosure Scotland.

For more details and an application form contact Nihoma Macfarlane on

01828 633655.

LEARN TO DANCE the easy way!

BALLROOM & LATIN BEGINNERS CLASSES

RESTART WEDNESDAY 6th SEPTEMBER

Followed by improvers & Sequence Alyth Town Hall

Contact Dennis Melloy (Qualified UKA instructor) Tel: 01828-632284

11

THE TEDDY BEARS’ TRAIL THE TEDDY BEARS’ TRAIL was sponsored by Alyth & District Business Association and was a competition that had been designed for the young and the young at heart. Teddy had come to Alyth this year for his summer holidays and he has held a Teddy Bears Reunion for all his friends from round the world. Many of the visiting Teddies visited many businesses in Alyth and asked them to display postcards from their homes in various towns/countries worldwide.

Free entry forms were collected from Alyth Post Office, The Spar, or Costcutters. Following the instructions led you round the town, looking for the Teddy Bears/displays in the shop windows and answering the questions. Please take your completed answer sheets to The Doll’s House Shop, Camno, Workshop, Commercial Street, Alyth before 7th September 2006, and the winner(s) will be drawn at the next committee meeting of ADBA. We hope you all had fun completing the Teddy Bears Trail, and visitors to the town have enjoyed it too. Thanks must be expressed to the compiler Mrs. J. McGill, for her work in producing the entry form, and all the businesses for their Teddy Bear displays and their willingness to take part. Thanks also to Mr. B. Pidsley of Alyth Post Office, Mr. Paul Duncan of The Spar, and Mr. Colin Macdonald of Costcutters, and all their staff for distributing the entry forms. Thanks also to everyone who takes part in the Teddy Bears Trail. Ted

Pancakes, Scones an’ Clootie-Dumplin!

By Dan Dewar It yis tae be, whin ah wis wee, men wrocht tae mak’ the siller;

the wife huid athing else tae dae - eneuch tae bloomin’ kill ‘er!

Wi’ rowd-up sleeves, she maul’d the claes, swite-drench’d an’ fair forfochen…

she’d grab a bundle be the scruff like yin hell-bent on chokin’!

She’d then lambast the scrubbin’-board like yin consum’d wi’ passion:

she’d scrub an’ squeeze, an’ twist an’ tease - thae puir sarks took some bashin’!

She’d dackle whiles, tae catch ‘er brith, wi’ een baith rede an’ bleary…

but sune the waashin’ on the line wis blaain’ tapsalteerie.

But no a meenit cud she spare tae lounge, or bile the kettle -

she’d need guid kail, or peasemeal-brose, tae keep Tam in fine fettle.

She pump’d the watter frae the well; she caad the dour auld mangle…

sometimes the blankets veer’d asklent an’ got in sic a tangle.

She huid nae time fur bonnie claes, nor huid she onie pennies -

she’d Tam tae tend, an’ bairns tae raise, feed pigs, an’ jouks, an hennies.

Yet, we cud lippen on oor ma fur scrumptious clootie-dumplin’…

teeth-watterin’ smells brocht us pell-mell, a’ mad tae dae some samplin!

But, noo-a-days, it’s skimpy claes an crisps an’ coke an’ trannies…

pan-cakes an’ scones? Ah… thae days ur gone…

unless, ufcoorse, yer Grannies will mix the dough, explain and show

the secrets tae her lambies.

So, sook-in girls, an’ gie’t a whirl, nae mair procrastinatin’…

If ye wait ower lang, things kin gyng wrang -

then you’ll regret the waitin’.

But ah’ll tell you juist whit tae do: keep speerin’ till she buckles;

then pick ‘er harns, that wey ye’ll larn frae her, a michty-muckle…

Then, whin ye Wed, he will be gled o’ your delicious bakin’…

he’ll bide wi’ you yer hail life through - you’ll ‘never’ be forsaken!

It’s a hard act tae follie yer Grannies, ma dears,

but, their bluid’s in your veins - you kin match thim, ah’m shair!

LOCHSIDE LODGE & Roundhouse Restaurant

Bridgend of Lintrathen, By Kirriemuir Tel: 01575 560340 Fax: 01575 560251

E-mail: enquiries@lochsidelodge.com www.lochsidelodge.com

Alongside Lintrathen Loch, just 10 minutes from Alyth, Lochside Lodge & Roundhouse Restaurant is an ideal venue whether for Lunch or Dinner – our menus are modern and imaginative using the best of Perthshire & Angus produce, beautifully created and presented.

Lunch: 12noon to 1.30pm Dinner: 6.30 to 8.30pm

Closed Sunday evenings and all day Monday

Back Due to Popular Demand

September Silver Ball Saver 18 Holes on the Rannaleroch Course

followed by a Main Course * £20 per person *

Please quote ref. av0906 when booking Visitors Always Welcome Why not come for a meal?

Our restaurant is now open to 8pm every night and meals are produced

using the best fresh local ingredients. Reserve a table to avoid disappointment.

Telephone 01828 633322

4 Mill Street . Alyth . Blairgowrie . PH11 8BJ Tel. 01828 633477

~ PICTURE FRAMING ~ TONY FLAVELL

Watercolours . Oils . Prints . Photos . Certificates . Tapestries

~ G A L L E R Y ~ Original artworks, paintings & photographs (local artists)

Rosslyn Moran . Original art & children’s book illustrations OPENING HOURS

1-6pm Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday &Sunday

ROGERROGER DecoratorDecorator

3 Bank Street, Alyth, PH11 8DB3 Bank Street, Alyth, PH11 8DB

FOR INTERIOR DECORATING AND EXTERIOR PAINTING, ALL TO THE

HIGHEST STANDARD

call 01828 632879 for free estimates

H O B B I E S H O B B I E S H O B B I E S

19 Airlie Street Alyth Tel: 01828 632565

Open Mon-Sat. 9 am-4.30 pm Closed for lunch 12.30-1.30pm

Closed Wednesdays

prop: Muriel McNicoll

Do wszystkich osob pochodzacych z Polski

Czy chcialbys osiagnac dodatkowy do-chod? Jesli tak, skontaktuj sie z Susan Marsh, tel.01828 633501

Czy myslisz o otwarciu swojej wlasnej firmy? Jesli tak, skontaktuj sie z

Susan Marsh, tel.01828 633501

Alyth Parish Church Scottish Country Dance Group

This lively group meets every Thursday evening, in Airlie Street Hall. Country dancing is great way to

keep fit and keeps the brain cells busy too. It is a very friendly activity, fun to do and every dance ends with everybody smiling. Beginners are welcome and classes

begin again on 14 September 2006. Airlie Street Hall ~ Every Thursday

7.30 - 9.30 pm For further information, please call

Anne on 632971 or Moira on 632770

Alyth Literary Society The 2006/2007 season of talks

presented by the Alyth Literary Society com-mences on 3rd October, 2006. All talks take

place in the Ogilvy Rooms, Commercial Street, Alyth at 7.30pm. A warm welcome will

be extended to anyone wishing to join the Society or to attend individual talks.

3rd October 2006 ‘Bothy Loons & Ploomen Chiels’

Jim Black, Burntisland An illustrated talk on rural life as it was in

Perthshire and Angus from a speaker whose forebears lived and worked in this area.

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12

Printed for Alyth Voice by Blair Copy Shop Copyright©alythvoice 2006

ALYTH Y.M.C.A. BAZAAR 1921 The extensive second article in the Alyth Guardian

regarding this event, published on 2nd September 1921. MANY PRETTY GOWNS

The Dowager-Countess of Airlie looked very distinguished in a beautifully-cut costume of fine black face cloth, the coat of which was fashioned on long lines, close fitting at the waist. Stiff, creamy coloured wings relieved her black tagel straw hat. Over an exquisite gown of lemon-coloured crepe de chine Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon wore an exclusive cloak of soft russet-brown satin charmeuse. Her lace hat was of a slightly duller shade of brown, and she also wore beautiful sable furs. Lady Ogilvy-Wedderburn came attired in an afternoon toilette of petal blue foulard patterned with white and banded with Royal blue georgette. She wore Russian sables and a black lace hat with cire ribbon. Navy blue velvet ribbon was prettily disposed in bands round the navy taffetas frock worn by Mrs J.F. Fyfe-Jamieson, Ruthven House. Her navy velvet hat had a lace brim, the lace drooping grace-fully over the edge. Miss Fyfe-Jamieson wore a navy coat frock, embroidered in flame, and a mixed straw hat. Mrs Hay-Wilson, Kinpurnie Castle, affected a French grey costume with narrow saxe stripe, and a red hat. Miss Wedderburn-Ogilvy, Inverisla, was smartly gowned in fawn crepe de chine, sashed with Turkish ribbon. Her hat of black tulle was trimmed with flowers. Miss I. Wedder-burn-Ogilvy affected apricot satin with a brown chapeau, with na-sturtium yellow flowers. All in black came Mrs Carmichael, Ar-thurstone. In Chinese silk with tunis and band of navy silk, and wearing a black toque with down drooping ospreys in front, came Mrs Inglis, Barony Hall. Miss Inglis and Miss I. Inglis both chose white. Mrs Fraser, Braeknowe, Dundee, was attired in black, and Miss Cleg-horn, Loyal, Alyth was in brown, with russet hat. In a smart navy costume, the pockets of which were touched with crimson leather, came Mrs Tasker, Arnbog. Her black crinoline straw hat had sweep-ing plumes of royal blue, and she wore a lovely marabout wrap. Miss Souter, Ellengown, wore a fawn costume, with sable furs and a navy hat. A black costume, with black straw hat, was the choice of Mrs Frank Stevenson, Dundee, who was accompanied by Mr and Miss Thomson. Mrs Cochrane of Craigisla wore a becoming gown of black satin charmeuse, with black hat. Mrs Fairweather, The Elms, Meigle, had chosen navy with pretty rust embroidery and navy straw with ospreys. Mrs Howie, The Croft, wore navy taffeta, with Oriental silk hat; Miss Howie was in tussore. Mrs Ritchie Smith, Strathview, chose a heavily braided silk costume, with saxe hat; Mrs Lawson chose navy taffeta, and a biscuit coloured hat; and Mrs Lindsay, Balwhyme, a fawn and blue georgette gown, with a blue hat. Other visitors to the bazaar were the Hon. Mrs John Dewar, Lun-carty House, Perth, and Mrs Heaton Ellis; Mrs Cassels; Auchinleish; Mrs Ivory, Brewlands; Mr and Mrs Gedge, Meadowbank; Mrs and Misses Keay, Milnacraig; Sir John Ogilvy-Wedderburn of Ruthven; Captain and Mrs Wedderburn-Ogilvy, Inverisla; Mr Cleghorn, Loyal; Mrs James Milne, Monkseaton; Mrs and the Misses Cox of Cardean; Rev. Hugh and Mrs Climie, The Manse, Meigle; Mrs and the Misses Yeaman, Bank Street House; Mr Andrew Cochrane of Craigisla; Mrs Saddler, Queich; Mrs Denroche-Smith, Balhary; Mrs Moodie, Dundee; Mrs Nicol, Cairnhall; Mrs Brown, Clintlaw; &c., &c. To be continued again next month!

ALYTH COMMUNITY COUNCIL TICKET SALES are going quite well for the Morrison’s Academy Swing Band Concert in the Town Hall, Friday September 15th at 7.30pm. Quite well is not good enough! We are looking for a full house. We want to make a substantial donation to the two charities we are supporting - the Alzheimers Association and Alyth Youth Partner-ship. Both organisations have tickets on sale and as mentioned last month, Jason at Lunans has kindly agreed to have tickets on sale too. Don’t miss out this time! Watch out for future events sponsored by the Community Council. Like the proverbial London Buses, two projects about Alyth’s open spaces come along at once. I mentioned in last month’s piece that August 4th was the deadline for your opinions about the future of the Den of Alyth. This Perth & Kinross Council initiative was immedi-ately followed by another from the Public Space Management Team of P&K. This time they are seeking your comments on the town’s open spaces in general. Once again, I am urging you to react to the appeals of the Parks Development Officer Andrew Smith. In the mid-dle of August a display was held in the Library wherein you were invited to discuss Alyth’s parks and open spaces with a Local Author-ity representative. The Community Council put out some posters giv-ing details and I hope you were able to get along. There may still be some questionnaires in the Library. Please pick one up, complete it and send it off. Alternatively they can be downloaded from www.perthshire.com/residents/greenperthshire/Parks+and+Open+Space+Strategy/. They are asking you to submit them by the end of August. I am sure some returns arriving by mid-September will not be ignored. By the way, I received the letter outlining this event on the 11th August. The officer and the display were in the Library on the 14th. Not much time for publicity! P & K’s explanation? Shortage of staff! Your Community Council doesn’t have any paid staff. We do try to keep you informed.

Jim Adam, Chairman

THE VETERANS AGENCY

wish every ex-service person who was serving up to 1959

to apply for the Veterans Badge.

Freephone 0800 169 2277 with details of army number,

regiment, date of entry & discharge.

ALYTH SCOUTS GREAT EXPECTATIONS NOT ONLY the title of that classic by Charles Dickens, it was also the anticipated result for the Alyth Scouts’ Book Fest in raising funds to send two members to Malawi next July. Had we been pressed for a “target figure”, we would have placed in around £400- £500 which would have represented 10% of the total required. A fund raising “thermometer” was placed at the entrance which ran up to £1000. It was broken last week and an additional extension added to cope with figures. In total a staggering £1300 has been raised which reflects the generosity and sincerity of the public in contributing to this worth-while venture. A complete cross section of the public graced our doors and supported the event. Some browsed and bought a lot, others just browsed. Some were looking for specific authors or topics, but most were pleased to mull around and take something that caught their eye. Our sports corner was very popular with a variety of equipment – golf clubs, exercise machines, skis and the largest item was a 16 foot Cana-dian Canoe which caught everyone’s attention – we could hardly hide it! Our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed books and to all our patrons for giving so generously. I know our representatives will convey the support shown to our friends in Malawi. On their behalf may I express our gratitude. Even on the last day, books were still arriving, and considering the stock we still have in hand, we intend to store them until maybe December and reopen the doors again. 12 Scouts and 2 Explorer Scouts held a camp at Fordell Firs, the Scout Activity Centre near Dunfermline. The weather was exception-ally good and the activities even better. The Scouts did caving, assault course, archery, climbing wall, quad bikes for the over 12s and other camp games and activities. Our camp fire on the Saturday night was hijacked by a group of Irish Scouts, who took over the proceedings. Their Leader hadn’t so much as kissed the Blarney Stone – I think he had swallowed it! So be warned, the Scouts have added a few gems to their campfire repertoire and are keen to pass them on! All sections will resume shortly and amongst other things we are looking forward to 2007 which is the 100th year of Scouting. Plans are afoot for a large camp in May and we hope to mark the occasion in some manner in Alyth. More details later. The Jumble Sale will shortly be upon us and as this event has to be crammed into three days we will need a lot of assistance to run this event. I would be delighted to hear from anyone who can manage to help out at what is a very busy time for us all. Thanks again for your response to our Book Fest – well done Alyth. Ron Kirkpatrick