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Alyth Voice 78th Edition, March 2004

Tel/Fax: 01828 632545 Minimum Circulation 1350 E-Mail paulramsay@bamff.demon.co.uk or freida.murray@ntlworld.com

The plans of the Alyth Environmental Group have received a massive boost with the announcement of a £20,000 grant from Forward Scotland. When this is added to the £10,000 worth of funding from the Countryside Trust, the group will be able to see through it’s plans for a circular disabled walk in the Den. The route is from the car park to the first bridge, up the slope towards the road, then back to the car park by way of a path made parallel to the road but on the Den side of the hedge.

The Forward Scotland grant is time limited so the group has wasted no time in getting contractor tenders out and work should be completed by mid to late April.

The next volunteer task is to plan a native hardwood hedge on the north side of the school playing field. This is scheduled for Sunday 21st March from 2 pm. Any assistance welcomed.

The groups AGM will take place on the evening of Thursday 18th March. Regular monthly meetings are in the Alyth Hotel on the Third Thursday of each month at 7.30 pm all welcome.

THE CARBON GAME’S A BOGIE by Charles Dobb, Mill of Fyal, Bamff Road.

Climate change due to global warming is a fact. Water vapour, carbon dioxide and methane in the air act like a blanket around the Earth and warm up the lower atmosphere. An increase in the level of any of these gasses will increase the average temperature of the lower atmosphere. A warmer atmosphere has more energy. This increase in energy causes the atmosphere to move faster (be windier) and speed up the global water cycle (more evaporation from the oceans and more rainfall). Warmer air will in turn warm the surface layers of the oceans. Warming water causes it to expand. This ex-pansion is likely to lead to sea-level rise.

That’s the physics, but how will it affect us? Climate change will appear as a more frequent or permanent change to local seasonal weather patterns. The risk of coastal flooding will in-crease. These effects are already being felt in Tayside with the cost of construction of the Perth City flood defences and the loss of viabil-ity of the Glen Shee ski centre and its associ-ated businesses.

The burning of coal, oil and natural gas, pro-duce large quantities of carbon dioxide. Car-bon that had been in ‘very long-term storage’ is being pumped into the air and reintroduced to the carbon cycle. As a result, the concentration of this greenhouse gas has increased signifi-cantly over the last hundred years and has caused an observed increase of global average temperature. These fossil fuels have provided nearly all the energy that has powered global

ALYTH CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARDS

Funding Success for Alyth Environmental Group

e c o n o m i c growth since the industrial revolution. In 2004, we are still locked into the desire for economic growth. Now, here’s a problem: how are we to sustain the existing, and growing, level of en-ergy use without producing any gain in atmos-pheric carbon dioxide concentration? If fossil fuel energy is to be reduced, what will replace it, and what will be the energy source to supply the ever-expanding economy? If the legacy of nuclear power is unacceptable, solar energy is our only sustainable option in the form of: en-ergy crops, wind, waves, hydro, ocean currents, photo-voltaics, solar thermal, and passive solar design.

The finite size of the Earth will limit the rea-sonably recoverable solar energy that is avail-able to us. A cap on the availability of energy will make zero growth economies inevitable. It is interesting to consider an evolution in west-ern culture where personal happiness will be un-coupled from the aspiration to increase per-sonal spending! Bear in mind, that if everyone on the planet had our ‘western’ lifestyle, we would need, evidently, about four planets worth of resources!

In the meantime, how are we to react to the causes of climate change? There is variability in the global climate due to natural, and com-plex, causes and effects acting on our climate system. However, human activity is already having a disproportionate effect due, princi-pally, to our fossil derived carbon dioxide emis-sions. Reductions in these emissions can be achieved by: one, reducing personal total en-ergy use; two, substituting fossil fuel derived

energy with the raft of solar options. The first method for emissions reduction will be hard to accept, culturally. For energy budgeting and carbon taxation to work, though probably inevitable, will require unprecedented interna-tional political cooperation. Basic energy effi-ciency measures will not work if the cash saved is used to subsidise spending beyond need. It is interesting to note that, from government fig-ures*, the growth in road transport emissions of carbon dioxide is now outstripping all other sectors by at least a factor of five.

The development and implementation of the second method for emissions reduction is well under way. Did you know that Biodiesel (a mixture of modified vegetable oil and fossil diesel) is available at the town’s only diesel pump at the same price as standard diesel? Did you know that there are wood boilers available that run at 91% efficiency, with automatic stok-ing for wood-pellets? Power generation in the UK now contributes about 21% of total UK carbon dioxide emissions? There is scope for considerable, viable, substitution of fossil fuel powered generation by a number of solar op-tions: wind, wave and hydro power. Hence, the proposal for a windfarm at Drumderg. How-ever, about fifty such schemes would be neces-sary to replace just one 1000MW power station. Therefore, it’s not just our back yard that is to be affected, but a revolution that will, eventu-ally, be experienced by most of the population. DETR Climate Change Draft Programme (2000)

Alyth Citizen of the Year Mr Ball, and The Young Citizens of the Year, Skateboard Solutions, receiving their awards.

(see page 8) WHY WINDPOWER IS IMPORTANT

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Alyth Voice Editorial Team Paul Ramsay 01828 632992 Editor Jessie McLean 01250 872983 Treasurer/Advertising Margaret Mackenzie Advertising Marjory Macpherson Advertising Will Burns Brodie MBE 01250 872983 Distribution Freida Murray 01828 632545 Layout editor In Order to avoid disappointment please ensure that Articles/Ads for publication are submitted by 21st day of each month. Note: The views expressed in the Alyth Voice are not necessarily those of the Editors, nor can they accept any responsibility for accuracy/spelling of any article.

Useful Telephone Numbers

Blairgowrie Police Station - 01250 872222 Hydro-Electric Emergencies - 0800 300999 Scottish Gas Emergencies - 0800 111999 North of Scotland Water Authority - 0845 437 437 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

If you offer a 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.

Voice Teaser What is a Yett ?

Jan/Feb answer-What is a Lade?- A Mill Stream

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Prep and cook time: Up to 30 mins Serves: 4 Ingredients 375g penne or pasta quills 2 x 15ml spoons olive oil 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into small pieces 50g mange-tout peas, cut into 1 cm pieces 4 slices of Parma ham, cut into small pieces 200ml carton of crème fraiche 5ml spoon Dijon mustard 75g Lancashire cheese crumbled salt and freshly ground black pepper chopped fresh parsley Method Cook the penne in lightly salted boiling water according to the packet instructions.

While the pasta is cooking, heat the oil in a large frying pan and stir fry the chicken over a brisk heat for 4 to 5 minutes until lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep it warm. Add the mange tout peas and Parma ham to the pan and stir fry for 1 minute. Return the chicken to the pan, add the crème fraiche, mustard and seasoning to taste. Bring slowly to simmering point, stirring frequently and allow to bubble gently until the pasta is ready. Drain the penne and stir into the pan with the cheese. Serve at once, sprinkled with chopped parsley. Nutrition Info (per serving) 752 calories

Don't know who wrote it and I don't know if there is any truth in the tale

of 2ft tall daffodils encouraged on by ale!!!

from Caroline Shiers

Airlie Street

LINES ON THE SUBJECT OF WASTE

With apologies to Big Bill Wordsworth

Mr Alfred Hawkes, Croydon Licensee, induces daffodils to grown more that 2ft

tall by feeding them on ale.

I wander'd lonely as a cloud, A thirsty walk o'er hill and dale,

And then, with horror, saw a crowd Of daffodils - all quaffing ale.

In tipsy frolic, in the grass, They pledged each other, glass for glass.

As frivolous as girls in wine

They hiccup'd on that verdant shore And nodded, in a silent sign,

To indicate they wanted more. Ten thousand, glancing, I could see, And they, I'm sure, saw two of me.

The waves beside them danced, but they Rolled out the barrel with good cheer,

And simply looked the other way, Disdaining water when they'd beer. I felt my eyes with moisture fill -

And wish't I were a daffodil.

And oft, when bills are to be paid; And I'm hard up, I could be rude On thinking of that awful waste

(And I in unslaked solitude) As thirst my kinder feelings kills

I mutter "Drat the daffodils."

BEE

ALYTH & DISTRICT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Will take place on Thursday the 25th March 2004 At 7.30 p.m. In The Lesser Town Hall, Alyth.

ALL BUSINESS’S WELCOME

Nancy Kay (Mrs.) Michael Kay Secretary Chairman

37 g fat Do you have a favour-ite recipe? Why not share ? Just pop it into the Voice box in the post

Chicken and Ham Carbonara

St Valentine’s Artist’(s)

The St. Valentines picture/mural painted on the sidewall of the garage at the Alyth Youth Partnership is a wonder for all to see. Alyth & District Business Association, Office Bearers and Committee Mem-bers cannot not comment on the thought, planning and paintwork that has gone in to the display. It has really brightened up the Alyth Square. Well done to the artist(s) who ever you are, it is a joy to see and we hope that it will be there for a long time and many photographs are taken of it. Once again well done!

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YOUR LETTERS

Dear Editor, A wee note to thank you for my lovely little watercolour I won as 2nd prize in the Christmas Quiz. I would also like to say thanks to Sarah Anderson who assisted me very ably in doing the research! Valerie Smith

Parking nightmare in Morrison Tce.

As a normally happy resident of Alyth, and particularly Morrison Terrace, I am becoming increas-ingly frustrated at the dodgem like mentality by other motorists in the street, particularly since they al-ways aim for my humble old car and leave considerable damage without owning up to it. It is a big strain on the budget to maintain a car, and since I am third party in-surance, I would need to pay for the repairs myself. I already park on the pavement, which is no alternative, I am stuck. There has got to be a solution to this dilemma at some point, even if it means the council acquiring the front gardens as a parking option. Alternatively, if all the cars in the terrace receive the same abuse as mine, there won’t be many left worth parking. Grumblingly yours

Irene Kennedy 26 Morrison Tce Alyth

Rebecca Anderson age 9

One day I when went to my granny's house I filled in an Alyth Voice name the Llama competition, and I won 1st place. I was really glad that I won. We went up to see the Llamas and I had a great time.

Thank you to the farmer and to Alyth Voice, for my lovely day and prize. Rebecca

Alexander Tosh jnr. 3 Smith Lane New Alyth

Hi All I just wanted to let everyone know what a wonderful time I had visit-ing the Llamas at Westfield Farm on 31st January. I was really happy to win the chance to see the new baby Llama and her family. It was well worth the trip on a snowy morning. I have enjoyed telling all my friends about the experience and know that it’s one I’ll remem-ber forever. I hope lots of other children get a chance to see these local llamas up close too. I am very grateful and thank the organisers very much. Thank you again Alexander Tosh jnr.

Memus 31 Cambridge Street

Alyth 10/02/04

Dear Editor, Permit me through the medium of your columns, a little space to ex-press my sincere thanks to all mem-bers of the Community Council who were solely responsible for arranging the Citizens of the year awards held at the Town Hall on Sunday afternoon of 8th February 2004. The turn out was well beyond all my expectations. The buffet was first class, as for the presentation ceremony, I have to thank most sincerely, Councillor Ian Miller, who highlighted some of my activities within the commu-nity and beyond over the last 40 years, also I would like to thank the Reverend Gardner for his summing up of the function and to all those in the community who make “Alyth a Better Place to Live”. Lastly but by no means least, all success to the Young Citizens of the year, Keep up the good work, your are our future.

Sincerely R. A. Ball

Community Council Drumderg Consultation Meeting

There was a good turn out at the Drumderg meeting at Alyth Town Hall on Friday 30th January. Residents both for and against the project were given the opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns about the proposed windfarm at Drumderg. Robert Stewart of Alyth Community Council gave a report on the findings of their consultation so far. He explained why the website has been a success, is the first of it’s kind, and is a valuable resource not just for information, but as a platform for debate and inquiry into the wind farm proposal and the work of the community council on the matter. Robert gave a statistical breakdown from the consultation forms, (see Community Council article on page 11). Mr. Tate of Bank Street, spoke in favour of wind farms in general. Mr. Chalmers of Isla Road spoke against. Councillor Ian Miller read a letter from John Swinney expressing his support for renewable energy in principle, although he was paying attention to local concerns about the Drumderg proposal. Dr Chris Marden and Mr Brian Smith of the SSE braved the tirade of questions from locals, who raised concerns on various issues from the site itself to the effect on Alyth due to the route chosen to transport equipment to the site. He confirmed that no traffic survey had been done in Alyth: route 1 was chosen because it was more suitable in terms of junctions and the route was the shorter of the two. There was a lengthy discussion on the trucks and lorries travelling through Alyth and concern raised about the size of these vehicles- Full length of a truck was stated as being 39 to 40-43 meters, about the size of three Asda lorries. The meeting was assured that with a traffic management scheme in place that this would lead to no problems. Dr. Marden was unsure as to who would foot the bill for the traffic management scheme. On the issue of extra traffic through Alyth the meeting was told that there would be 8 loads every other day for about a month and possibly 4 return journeys per day with sand and gravel, abnormal loads would only pass through the town for 2-3 months. The project would only inconvenience Alyth for 8 months. Traffic times were stated as being between 0700-1800 Monday to Friday and 0700-1200 on Saturday.

Vehicle Size comparison - Articulated truck 2.5 metres wide, 41/2 metres high, 40 meters long Abnormal loads 3.8 wide, 40 metres long, Loads would be

about 10 tons overall 38 tons and the widest is 4 meters.

Minor road works at the Den of Alyth road to widen the road at vari-ous places by 3½–5 meters adding passing places, the road will be returned to good repair if required under section 96 of the agreement. There are no plans to fell any trees in the Den. The lifetime of a windfarm is about 25 years; the concrete base foun-dation blocks would be left in place and buried. On the issue of the environmental impact at the site Dr Marden as-sured the meeting that yes there would be some form of impact but it was expected that it would not be significant.

Prize Winners Llama Visit

Hospital Car Service District Nursing & Samaritan Association are holding a

Coffee Morning on Saturday 20th March in Airlie Street Hall

in aid of the hospital car service. Please come along and support this useful and much used service. Donations of baking for the cake and candy stall and bottles for the bottle stall would also be gratefully received. These can be handed in to Davidsons Chemist in Airlie Street or to the Town Hall on the morning of the sale from 9am.

The Alyth Llamas By Rebecca Anderson

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Belles in Rehearsal

The History Of Tai-Chi

History of Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan Yang Style history starts with Yang Lu-Shann (1799-1872), also known as Fu-Kuai or Lu-Chan. He was born at Youn Nien Hsien, Kuan Pin County, Hebei province. When he was young he was sent to Chen Jar Gouin Henan province to learn Tai Chi Chuan from Chen-Chang-Shen. When Chen Chang-Shen stood he was centred and up-right with no leaning or tilting, like wooden signpost, and so people called him Mr Tab-let. At that time, there were very few students outside of the Chen family who learned from Chen Chang-Shen. Because Yang was an outside student, he was treated unfairly, but

he still stayed and persevered in his practice. One night, he was awakened by the sounds of “Hen” and “Ha” in the distance. He got up and traced the sound to an old building. Peeking through the broken wall, he saw his master Chen Chang-Shen teaching the techniques of grasp, control, and emitting Jing in coordination with the sounds Hen and Ha. He was amazed by the techniques and from that time on, unknown to master Chen, he continued to watch this secret practice session every night. He would then return to his room to ponder and study. Because of this, his martial ability advanced rap-idly. One day, Chen ordered him to spar with the other disciples. To his surprise, none of the other students could defeat him. Chen realised that Yang had great potential and after that taught him the secrets sin-cerely. After Yang Lu-Shann finished his study, he returned to his hometown and taught Tai Chi Chuan for a while. People called his style Yang Chuan (Yang Style), Mei Chuan (Soft Style),or Far Chua (Neutralising Style), because his motions were soft and able to neutralise the oppo-nent’s power. He later went to Peking and taught a number of Ching officers. He used to carry a spear and a small bag and travel around the country challenging well known martial artists. Although he had many fights he never hurt anybody. Because his art was so high, nobody could defeat him. Therefore, he was called “Yang Wu Di”, which means “Unbeatable Yang”. He had three sons, Yang Chyi, Yang Yuh (Ban-Huo), and Yang Jiann (Chien-Huo). Yang Chyi died when he was young. Therefore, only the last two sons succeeded their father in the art. Copyright 2001 Liverpool Tai-Chi

St Valentines Window Competition

The St. Valentines Window Competition spon-sored by Alyth & District Business Association was judged by Mr. Robert Ball Alyth’s Citizen of the Year and Mr. Leo Plaster (Spokesperson for Alyth Skateboards Solution) Alyth’s Young Citizen of the Year on Saturday the 14th of Feb-ruary and after much deliberation, thought etc they decreed that the winners were: - 1st The Singing Kettle, 14 Airlie Street.

They were presented with The Shield and a Certificate.

2nd Athole Bakery, 27 Airlie Street. was presented with a Certificate.

3rd Hobbies, 19 Airlie Street was presented with a Certificate.

Thanks must be expressed to the judges for all their care and diligence in their judging and also to all the entrants who had the best displays this year ever, and hopefully encouraged people to get in the Valentine mood. Did it encourage any proposals of marriage? What a shame that they all cannot be winners. Thanks to all who took part. Michael Kay Chairman ADBA

Tai-Chi Comes to Alyth

The ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi is gaining popularity in the west because it is the perfect antidote for stress and low energy levels. Chi Kung (energy work) that forms the first half of any class, combines ab-dominal breathing, visualisation and slow gentle exercise and dates back 3000 years. The second half of the class is devoted to learning the Tai Chi form which is a refined form of a martial art and uses the principal of yield and overcome, therefore balancing the Ying and Yang forces. There are currently two classes in Alyth Beginners Monday 2.30 – 4 pm Intermediate Friday 2.30 – 4 pm Both held at the Guide Hut, New Alyth Road. The cost is £4 per class; loose fitting clothes are ideal and soft thin-soled shoes, not trainers. Contact Lilla for more information-Tel: 01250 873007

Nell's Belles The end of February and only 2 months until the show starts. It's around now we start counting rehearsals, I make it 21. I start panick-ing at 10. We are now well into Act 2 and everyone continues to work hard on songs, lines and dance routines. This is certainly a fast moving show and the 7 girls playing Nell and the Belles are finding themselves very busy. The company have to be congratulated for their great attendance at rehearsals. Arrangements have been made with the companies providing cos-tumes, sound system and lighting. Props are being made and special effects worked out. Painting of set and erection of stage comes later. All in all a very busy time. All of us in the company hope that all our hard work will be seen by large audiences and despite all the sweat and hard work we hope the enjoyment we get from creating this show will also be shared with very many of you. Details of how you can get your tickets will be in the local press and the next edition of The Voice.

Guide Dogs For the Blind

I would like to say on behalf of the guide dogs for the blind and myself, a big thank you to Billy and all his customers in the post office for the fantastic amount of used stamps past to us. Billy has a leaflet in the post office which shows how much the stamps are worth per kilo and then what the money is used for. Can I also thank friends and neighbours for the stamps given to me.

Dot Appleby and Puppy Grace.

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RENDEZVOUS **HAIRDRESSER** Margaret or Paula

would be happy to advise on that new look for 2004

59 Airlie Street, Alyth. Tel: 632097

Open Tues - Sat Gift Vouchers Available

THE ALYTH TRADITIONAL FISH BAR

Telephone Orders Welcome 01828 632000

Fish Suppers £2.50 on Wednesday From 5pm-7pm for OAP’s

Hours of Business

Monday 4.30-9 pm Tuesday 4.30-9 pm Wednesday 4.30-9 pm Thursday 4.30-9 pm Friday 4.30-10 pm Saturday 4.30-10 pm Sunday 4.30-9 pm

DAVIDSON CHEMIST 9 Airlie Street, ALYTH.

Tel 632302 Prescriptions dispensed

Delivery service available

MEGS MINI MARKET

Alyth

Household Items-Microwaves, Kettles, Irons , Toasters, Deep Fat Fryers ….and Pots. Other Household Items- Linen, ..Lighting…... Cheapest in Town

Tel : Mobile 07801520411

Mrs Susan Marsh (Cert Ed) Cherrybank, Lands of Loyal

Tel: 01828 633501

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

19 Airlie Street Alyth Tel: 01828 632565

Open Mon-Fri. 9 am-4.30 pm Closed-12.30-1.30 Lunch

Closed Wednesday Why not make that special Mothers Day card?

Watch out for posters Glass painting demonstration in March

prop: Muriel McNicoll

P C Consumables Ink Cartridges, Photo Papers

CDR & Accessories Visit our website for the full range of products

www.gfsupplies.co.uk or call for a pricelist 45 Airlie St Alyth

Tel: 01828 633346 Email: lesley@gfsupplies.co.uk

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 fur-nishings.

Stock Changes Weekly Open 7 Days –Sunday 10 am-4 pm

ALL AT DISCOUNT PRICES

CLASSIC RESTORATIONS WEDDING HIRE

Pitnacree St, Alyth, Tel: 01828 633293

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

For All your garden machinery requirements.

SALES, SERVICE, REPAIRS, HIRES all makes.

Sharpening service. Main Dealer for Westwood, Jonsered, Echo

Stockists of Honda, Husqvarna, Castel, Stihl,

Kawasaki and more. Collection and Delivery by arrangement.

ALSO Gates, Railings, Balustrading etc.

Steel workers and fabricators CONTACT: Blair Eng.

HIGH STREET RATTRAY

BLAIRGOWRIE

COLIN & CATHY FORD Number 5 Toutie Street, Alyth

CHIROPODY SUGARING,FACIALS

EYELASH/BROW TINTING PEDICURE, MANICURE

by CREATIVE NAILS *****

For an Appointment Tel:01828 632297 Pennycook Driving School

Clar-Innis, Meigle Rd,

Alyth PH11 8EX

01828 632135 DSA

Approved Driving Instructor High Pass Rate

Pass Plus Registered

HOPE PARK HOUSE BLAIRGOWRIE

Residential home for older people DAY CARE

LONG STAY CARE SHORT STAY CARE (respite) SEPARATE DEMENTIA UNIT

Tel: 01250 872349 for details of charges

and arrangements to view

BLAIR ENGINEERING

Traditional Acupuncture in Alyth

Acupuncture can help a variety of symptoms and health problems

Free 15 minute consultations available 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 881416 or 07762 188418 (mobile)

Walls & Floors 21, Commercial Street

Paints & Papers, Ceramic Tiles, Carpet Tiles, Carpets, Vinyls, Laminate Flooring,

Decorating Sundries, Rugs. Decorating Advice Given

Shop Hours Mon-Fri 8.15—5.30 Sat 8.30—5.00

Tel: 01828 632879

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

Alyth Springs TherapiesAlyth Springs TherapiesAlyth Springs Therapies

Westfield Estate Alyth Tel: 01828 632450

Sore neck, shoulders, sports injuries, anxiety/stress, phobias/confidence

Full range of complementary therapies

Sandra Gauld AMGCP NRAH & Associates

GEORGE W. RENNIE 2 St. Malcolm’s Wynd Kirriemuir

Tel: 01575 573292 Mobile: 07711 818238

Repairs Spares & Servicing

Washing Machines, Cookers, Tumble dryers & Vacuums.

also Cycle Repairs & Spares

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ARNOLD WHITEARNOLD WHITEARNOLD WHITE

JJJOINEROINEROINER ANDANDAND C C CONTRACTORONTRACTORONTRACTOR

All types of Joinery/Carpentry work

i.e.-Extensions, Loft Conversions, Double Glazing, Conservatories,

Kitchens. Harwood & Laminate Flooring,

Fitted Furniture

1 Strathmore View Telephone Alyth 01828 632467 Perthshire Mobile:07736248718 PH11 8JD

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

Contrary to popular opin- ion, the property market doesn’t go into hibernation over the winter period.

There’s truly never an off-season for house hunting and now is an excellent time to sell. So please don’t hesitate to pop into our Airlie Street Shop (go now you might even avoid the queue!) and have a chat to Valerie about moving on. She’ll help you every step of the

way, from putting your own house on the market to finding a property which suits you perfectly. Why not let 2004 be the year in which you find the home of your dreams? You can do it through us, the only Solicitors with offices in your own town.

Telephone: Valerie at Alyth : 01828 632116 Elaine at Coupar Angus: 01828 627542 Shirley, Susannah and Judy at Blairgowrie: 01250 875050

GEO’s BAR &

THISTLE LOUNGE AIRLIE STREET, ALYTH

Tel : 632276 Fax: 633939 e-mail: thisletopia@aol.com

Lounge available for meetings FOOTBALL ‘LIVE’

on Digital & Five

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

DAVID SCOTT

FUNERAL DIRECTORS &

MONUMENTAL AGENTS

OUR STAFF ARE HAPPY TO ASSIST WITH ALL ENQUIRIES

CONTACT DAVID SCOTT LTD 7 TOUTIE STREET ALYTH TEL: 01828 633433 OR

65 HIGH STREET BLAIRGOWRIE TEL:01250 876400

Ian Strachan

Painter & Decorator

New Address—13, David Street Alyth

Tel No.: 633612 Mobile: 07720441268

Car & Home Insurance Special Rates For PH11 Postcodes TELEPHONE For a Quote 01828 633000

I&D Insurance Services 16 Airlie Street Alyth Partners Iain & Dawn Butchart Email i-d.insurance@btconnect.com

LUNANS Airlie Street

Proprietors Jason Donald & Debbie Richmond

NEWSAGENTS & STATIONERS A great selection of boxed & individual cards

at competitive prices. Good range also of beautiful cards for that special person or occasion.

ALL YEAR ROUND NEWSPAPER DELIVERIES and for the

VERY EARLY BIRDS Rolls and Filled Rolls

Shop open from 5.30 am

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

For Free Estimates Tel: 01828 632231 or Mobile 07729924784 19 Tay Road Alyth, Perthshire PH11 8EB

CENTRAL GARAGE, ALYTH

MOT TESTING FOR CARS AND MOTORCYLES

DID YOU KNOW YOU CAN HAVE YOUR MOT TEST A MONTH IN ADVANCE AND NOT LOOSE OUT?

THIS MAY ENSURE THAT YOU DON’T GET CAUGHT OUT BY THE NEW ROAD TAX

RULES (COMPUTER CHECKS TO FIND TAX

DODGERS WITH AUTOMATIC FINES OF AT LEAST £80)

CALL DONNA FOR AN APPOINTMENT ON

01828 632492

Stonework

Extensions Renovations

Harling Etc.

LYNDEA Extensive range of Physical, Beauty Therapy & Energy Work

Therapeutic Treatment Specialist Palliative Care - Aromatherapy. Touch Therapy, Reflexology,

Massage: Other services include Colour Therapy, Reiki, Spiritual Healing, LaStone Massage AuraSoma,

Hopi Ear candling, Sports Massage, Remedial skin camouflage, Tarot consultations & Beauty Treatments.

Phone: 01828 640578/632820 to arrange an appointment.

E-mail: lyndea@ukonline.co.uk

A stained Glass Window can transform any room in your house

with rays of light and colour. We make (real) leaded windows which can

either replace or be installed behind your existing window.

Choose from our own designs ranging from traditional to contemporary.

We can project your own ideas into glass. Phone Tayport 01382 553337

www.jbsg.ukonline.co.uk

Janet & Bob’s Stained GlassJanet & Bob’s Stained GlassJanet & Bob’s Stained Glass

Carpet Care Carpet Care Carpet Care

Carpet, Upholstery and Leather

Cleaned and Protected Call

Neil Stewart

for a Free Quote:

01828 632771 or 01250 875216

Mobile: 0771 391 5546

7

Alyth Christmas Lights 200 Club

Winners for February Draw

13 £50 Miss C. Gordon, Airlie Street 77 £30 Mrs L. Fleming, Grange of Aberbothrie 112 £20 Mrs C. Grieve, 7 Mill Street

LaStone® Therapy is one of the fastest grow-ing massage techniques in today's spas throughout this country and across international waters. Many people are seeking a connection to "Body-Mind-Soul" in their everyday life. LaStone® Therapy offers a peaceful way in which to return to ones true nature. Hot & Cold Stones are incorporated into specially designed therapeu-tic massage treatments to relax and stimulate the senses & body. Aromatherapy essential oils are applied during the experience to enhance the benefits and lift the spirit. COLD Marble is a metamorphic rock that at one time was nothing more than the muck at the bottom of oceans when the oceans of the world were not where they are today. To understand this statement, one has to realize that the geology of the earth is a dynamic, cyclical being not unlike the water on earth that exists in many forms as it cycles through time. During a year of four seasons, a particular gallon of water can cycle through snow, ice, water, cloud and rain. The materi-als that make up the earth exist in many forms as well; however, the time cycles can be billions of years. The existence of the marble stones we use in LaStone Therapy (for cold application) is a product of some very special circumstances in the rock cycle that began a long, long, long time ago, and at the same time continues to occur...

...Marble was formed on earth via the entire geologic process - a process that continues to create marble even as you read this. Marble, holding immense periods of time and records of the evolution of life, bears intrinsic beauty in its crystals. Marble, when driven to the surface of the land and subject to the factors of erosion, becomes the sands of rivers and may someday come to rest at the bottom of the ocean, tainting the formation of limestone. Written by Peter Halvorson, a massage therapist, for LaStone Ther-apy, Inc.

Each of the marble stones in a set from LaPolar Source is hand cut and hand polished. The folks at LaPolar Source take great care in hand moulding each marble stone to be used in the cold application during a treatment in LaStone Therapy.

HOT The type of basalt (for hot stones) that is used in LaStone Therapy is modified igneous rock that is formed by volcanic and sedimentary action. Basalt is the most abundant of the volcanic rocks, especially plentiful in those regions that have undergone volcanic disturbance within geologically recent times. Most present-day volcanoes erupt basaltic material. This type of basalt is usually made up of polycrys-talline olivine, an iron-magnesium silicate.

This olivine basalt is a fine-grained, black/greenish stone that is very dense and forms fine crystalline masses. The density of the stones is 2.5 times the weight per volume of water. The hardness is 7 on the Mohs' Scale of 1-10, a diamond being a ten. The basalt that I use has been formed downwind of the volcano, then cooled slowly; they have changed their composition as metamorphosis has taken place, and they have crystallized again and again, causing their great den-sity. Then they have been broken and eroded by steam or water activ-ity. The stones then washed along a river bottom and were given their smooth potato-like shape and size.

Hopi Ear Candling

Ear Candling had been used in Europe and Asia for centuries and can be traced back to the Indians of North and South America. It’s also known as Hopi Ear Candling, the Hopi being the first settled Pueblo Indians of North America. For many centuries they lived in harmony with nature and the original uni-versal laws passed down to them by the Great Creator Massauü. Their responsible treatment of Mother Earth, their cultural standards, great spirituality and extensive knowledge of healing, still underline the ele-vated status of this peaceful people: “ The true Hopis protect the holy knowledge on the state of the Earth, because true Hopis know that the Earth is a living and developing being and that all things on it are her children” (Excerpt from the Declaration of peace of the Hopis)

This method of ear candling is a relaxing and pleasant alternative to ear syringing. A very enjoyable and relaxing process, which also includes a head massage. This specialised treatment may also benefit conditions such as Sinusitis, Rhinitis, Vertigo, Tinnitis, impaired healing, head-aches and migraines, glue ear to name but a few. It may also be benefi-cial to those who suffer from regular ear infections and can be pleasant to clear congestion after a cold or flu. Treatment

Firstly - a mild suction, which originates from the chimney effect burn-ing process inside the ear candle, vibration of the rising air column, through natural movements of the flame, gently massages the ear-drum. This has the effect of regulating the pressure system with a per-ceptible regulation of the sinuses, which is often described as a '' relieved lightening of the area of the head and ears in general”. Secondly - the circulation of a concentrated vapour, enriched with herbal extracts, protects and soothes irritated areas.

During the burning process, the locally administered heat stimulates the peripheral blood circulation, intensifying the immunological de-fence system, strengthens the cleansing of the lymph glands, and stimu-lates energy points and reflex zones.

Secretion flow is gently stimulated and the vapour collects and removes impurities and deposits. Most of these are carried away through the candle 'chimney', but some may be found after removal from the ear. About the Candles

There are many methods used to achieve a similar result, and many styles and manufactures of the candles. Some appear to involve the inclusion of enough beeswax in the candle as to be a potential health hazard. The candles I use are made by a pharmaceutical company in Germany, and bear the E.E.C. safety mark. Al-though they contain a little beeswax for rigidity and to control the burning rate, there is not enough to drip – a slightly sticky powdery residue is all that results. They are made from fine linen, soaked in honey, herbs and beeswax; and then rolled into a tube which contains a filter to collect ear wax and other debris.

Hopi means ' peaceful people' or 'people of peace'.

Mural coloured painting found inside the “Hopi Tower” Grand Canyon USA

For further info on Hopi Candling or LaStone Therapy or to arrange an appointment.

please contact Lynda at “Lyndea” Phone: 01828 640578

E-mail: lyndea@ukonline.co.uk

Safety Information This therapy is not suitable for people with the following: Perforated eardrum Ear infection Sensitivity to the in-

gredients (herbs,honey etc).

8

years, now Honorary President, awarded life membership, quali-fied bowling coach SBA.

Alyth Burgh Provost Member of Perth and Kinross County Council, served on Social Work, Police and Small Burghs Association, Justice of the Peace for 25 years, bench serving mem-ber of Justices Committee for 12½ years at District Court. Alyth Community Council Founder member, Chairman for 9½ years, 12½ years as member. Alyth Halls Committee Founder member, has served for 15½ years, Booking Secretary for 9½ years. Alyth Musical Society Former President and now Honor-ary Vice President, Booking Sec-retary for 20 years. In addition is active in Alyth Amateur Operatic and Drama Society along with the Kirriemuir and Forfar Branches, awarded NODA medal for long service. Burns enthusiast, ar-ranges Burns Suppers and speaks at many functions. Dundee Courier He has been the local correspon-dent for many years.

The above is only a selection of

When evaluating the input to local life of someone with such an ex-tensive range of contributions, it is difficult to know where to begin and what to include. The follow-ing is therefore intended to give only a flavour of what is, without doubt, an outstanding life of ser-vice to the community. Meals on Wheels 25 years as organiser of the local service including weekly and monthly reports. Alyth Old Age Pensioners Club Arranger of monthly evening entertainment, two summer bus trips, Christmas dinner, adminis-ters a small personal fund to pro-vide Christmas cards and small gifts to members, personal visits to ill and the infirm as required. Alyth, Meigle and District, Nursing and Samaritan Assoc. Committee Member and relief driver for hospital visits. Alyth Parish Church A former Sunday school teacher and superintendent, elder, recently retired from Kirk Session after 40 years of service. Alyth Bowling Club Committee member for 25 years, longest serving President for 12

MR ROBERT A BALL

ALYTH CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Formerly Spar

Now Open At 73-75 Airlie Street, Alyth, Perthshire.

Licensed Grocers with a wide range of Fresh & Frozen foods. National Lottery outlet. Video & DVD rental.

E-Top up and Credit/Debit card facility available soon.

FREE HOME DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE Either do your shopping in-store and we will take it home for you or

telephone your order into us and we will deliver it. Tel No: 01828 632306

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2004

There was a full house in the Town Hall on the afternoon of Sunday 8th February for the annual Citizen of the Year Awards. This year’s winner, Mr Robert Ball, was com-mended in an eloquent speech (see

opposite) for his outstanding contribu-tion to the community by Council-lor Ian Miller, who was introduced to the gathering by Jim Adam, Chairman of the Community Council, Mr Ball has played his part for over forty years in many guises

Mr Ball's more recent activities within the local area. I believe it shows real and worthwhile com-mitment to the enhancement of the whole community and particularly to the elderly.

Mr Ball has never sought recogni-tion for his sterling efforts and I firmly believe that this is the ap-propriate time to reward and rec-ognise a lifetime of unstinting service to the good of all the com-munity. by Councillor Ian Miller

Young Citizens of the Year

Leo Plaster, Kevin Thomson, Stephen Lane, & Ryan

McLaughlan The prize for Young Citizen of the Year was won by the mem-bers of Skate Board Solutions. This group, whose members in-clude Leo Plaster, Kevin Thom-son, Ryan McLaughlan and Stephen Lane, had taken on the challenge of raising funds and organising the new skate board rink in the park, Councillor Miller commended the lads for their initiative and imagination and wished them continuing success in the venture. Last to speak was the Revd. Neil Gardner, who praised the winners and commended the large turn out in a characteristically gracious and amusing speech. Food and drink were supplied and much enjoyed by the company. Volunteers from the many differ-ent organizations in Alyth were invited to attend the ceremony in way of thanks for all the work they do in the community.

Alyth Folk

9

Word 2000 - Symbols & Objects.

These are two powerful adjuncts to word processing that are used by technical people of all generations. The ordinary keyboard is limited to the characters of ASCII and anything outside of that must be drawn from one of these two separate domains requiring roundabout ways. This is quite easy to do as follows, 1) Equation Editor

This first source of extra characters is an ‘object’ in Word called Equation Editor – a powerful facility that can be used to insert anything from a single character to a com-plete equation or even several pages of symbolic text in Mathematics. It is quite easy to access and use this part of Word as follows,

• Click on Insert in the tool bar. • Click on Object in the dropdown menu that appears • Scroll and click on Microsoft equation 3.0 in the

object menu that appears next. Click ok. • The Equation Editor tool bar will appear together

with a blinking cursor in a separate mini- textbox. That’s it. Don’t be confused by the fact that the cursor is now blinking in a small box in a place nowhere near where you think it should be relative to where you deliberately placed it before you started.

• Next look along the title image boxes along the tool bar and guess at the one you think might contain the character you want. A palette will drop down when you click on this. Find the symbol or character you want in the palette and click on it. This character will immedi-ately appear at the cursor in the small box.

• When you’ve finished and want to return to your document cursor position simply put the mouse arrow anywhere in the blank part of the page and left click once.

2) Symbols Even easier than Equation editor!

• Click on Insert in the document page tool bar. • Click on Symbol in the drop down menu when it

appears. • The symbols box will appear – select the one you

want – click on insert at the bottom of the box – click on close at the bottom of the box also to return to the original cursor position in your docu-ment.

• Be careful to position the normal cursor of your document page exactly where you want the im-ported symbol or character to appear before you start anything in the first place.

Note If Microsoft Equation Editor is not available, you may need to install it. How to install Equation Editor. Close all programs. Click the Windows Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon . Do one of the following: If you installed Word by using the Office Setup program, click Microsoft Office on the Install/Uninstall tab, and then click Add/Remove. If you installed Word individually, click Microsoft Word on the Install/Uninstall tab, and then click Add/Remove. Follow the instructions on the screen.

------------------------ Our thanks to Austin O’Byrne of Alyth for this months “Voicie” help file. For free help on your own computer or just talk about the above please call Austin on 01828 633 326

Thanks to John White for this months Quiz.

As it will soon be time for Charles II to strut his stuff on the Alyth stage with all the women in his life including Nell Gwynn this quiz revolves around the monarch past and present of Great Britain.

1) Who, currently is the first female in line to the throne? 2) Who was king of the Scots from 1040 – 1057 3) Who was the last Tudor monarch of Great Britain 4) Who was the last English monarch to be executed? 5) In which year did Queen Victoria die? 6) Who was on the throne at the time of the Great Fire of Lon-

don? 7) Name one of Henry VIII’s wives who actually outlived him 8) Where in July 1969 was Prince Charles invested as Prince of

Wales? 9) Where did the royal version of It’s a Knockout take place? 10) What was the name of the ship Prince Andrew served on dur-

Quiz Corner

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

To all readers with a birthday in March

Please send in your greetings for all occasions there is no charge for public notices.

Why did the mother kangaroo scold her children? Because they ate biscuits in bed.

What do you get if you cross a leopard with a watchdog? A terrified postman! Send in your jokes to the Voice and we will print them in the following issue.

Collective Word Puzzle

Pair these collective words with their group

e.g. A swarm of bees.

1. A pride of.......................................

2. A flock of........................................ .

3. A pack of… ....................................

4. A school of.. ................................... .

5. A flight of… ...................................

6. A band of.. ...................................... .

7. A gaggle.. ....................................... .

8. A company of… .............................

9. A fleet of......................................... .

10.A skein of.. .................................... .

CHILDREN’S CORNER

Aeroplanes

Hounds

Actors

Cars

Yarn

Porpoises

Musicians

Sheep

Geese

Lions

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Ian Miller Local Councillor. SURGERY AT ALYTH TOWN HALL (Old Council Chambers) on 1st MONDAY OF EACH MONTH AT 7.00PM OR CONTACT BY Tel: SNP OFF: 01250 876576 Home 01250 873304

P&K Council Tel: 01738 475018 E-Mail: imiller@pkc.gov.uk

PUBLIC NOTICES

Death of Mrs Margaret Leslie Editorial Staff of the Voice are sorry to hear about the passing of Margaret Leslie who donated to the Voice, she was an avid Voice reader . We will miss sending her copy to her each month.

Alyth Baby and Toddler Group Mon, Tues and Friday 9.45 – 11.15 am Ogilvy Rooms We are looking for new members to join our friendly group. We have a new schedule of events for springtime. Come and join in the fun! If interested drop in or phone Robyn Tel: 632705

BIG RED TEAPOT COFFEE MORNING

Belmont Castle Meigle hosted a National Coffee Morning named The Big Red Teapot Party for the British Red Cross on February 14th and would like to thank everyone who helped whether by baking for cake &candy stall, giving a donation or helping on the day. The Big Ted was won by Betty Welsh, Sweets in a jar by Shauna Dewar, Knitted Doll by Mrs Coull. A total of £314.15 was raised.

Anne Cocker for Red Cross.

Christmas Lights 200 Club Renewal

Subscriptions are now due to renew membership of our 200 club. Payment of £12 is due by the end of April for 12 monthly draws from May 04 to April 05 inclusive. Members wishing to renew their entry to our draws should send pay-ment to -: Mrs E Gordon, (Treasurer) 7, Airlie Street, Alyth PH11 8AH or hand in to the Post Office in a sealed envelope with name and address included. Cheques should be made payable to– : Alyth Christmas Lights Association- New members wishing to be included should apply to the above ad-dress. Numbers subject to availability

Thank You

Alyth Mother and Toddler Group would like to thank Alyth Choral Union for their extremely kind donation. Thank you for your support.

Alyth Playgroup

Situated in the community wing of Alyth Primary School. We currently have vacancies for children from 2 ½ – 5 years old. We are open on Tuesday and Thursday 9.15 – 11.15 am. Playgroup offer children plenty of early learning, playtime and the opportunity to mix with others, if interested please phone Linda Tel. 633122 Or playgroup mobile 07821624420.

Alyth in Bloom Coffee Morning

17th April 2004

10am – 11.30 am Airlie Street Hall

Donations of Home baking & Raffle Prizes would me gratefully appreciated

Whiskey Trail, Cake & Candy, etc. Tombola, Plant Stall &Raffle

All Welcome Contact Tel no. 632749

WILD BOAR AT BAMFF? By Paul Ramsay

The gestation period of the pig is said to be three months, three weeks and three days. As a novice to the world of pigs I thought this would be a useful thing to remember so, when I noticed that our smallest sow had been served on 24th October last year, I marked the fact in my diary. It became obvious that she was pregnant two or three weeks ago when her teats began to swell and she took on the look of glossy well-being that is characteristic of healthy mammals in late pregnancy. But what sort of pig is she? She and her late brother had longer bodies than their four fellows, who are true short-coupled wild boar. Recently, a friend showed me a paper about unimproved pigs in a journal and there, on one of its pages, was an illustration of an animal very much like my young sow (who is probably wild boar crossed with Tamworth, judging by her daughter’s russet coat). When I went out to feed the animals some days ago there was no sign of them in the usual place. Why not? Sometimes in the past this has meant that there has been an excursion into neighbouring territory and, indeed, that was how the Tamworth cross boar met his end while raid-ing one of the Ardormie pheasant feeders last autumn. But as I had been to check the march fence a couple of days before and had found the electricity working well, and no signs of escape, that seemed unlikely. By the time I had been round the march fences and returned to the feeding place the four boar were there eating steadily, but no sign of the little sow then, or the next day. Sunday the 22nd February was a bright, chilly day with a brisk northerly wind that carried occasional snow flakes in gusts: once again no boar. I put out the feed and set off to walk round the enclosure. Pausing a moment, after climbing the steep bank up from the burn, I saw the little sow by some rhododen-drons among the larch. She looked wary and, with her sleek flanks and her teats less swollen, she was altogether post-natal. I checked the fence and set off up hill again. A couple of hundred yards on I stopped and looked down: she was watching me suspiciously. I gazed around through the binoculars and found the nest. There were five piglets, so far as I could make them out, lying packed tight together in a row of disruptive stripes. The other adults of the group must have been some-where nearby, keeping a protective eye on their fellow, because when I returned to the feeding place they were not there. Three months, three weeks and three days: I should guess she did it to the day.

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The Alyth Llamas by Sandra Gauld

Llamas ancestors existed on the planes of North America approximately 40 million years ago: they were forced to move to South America dur-ing the ice age. Some of them migrated to Asia; those that migrated south evolved into two distinct types- the wild Vicuna and the Guanaco.

Llamas are members of the camelid family and have been domesticated for thousands of years: the Incas used them as beasts of burden, and their dung was used to fuel the fires, their skins for clothing and shelter, fibre and sinews for clothing.

These are very hardy animals, in Peru they live in altitudes of 14-16,000 feet, their coats are warm light fibre and can be used for spinning. They can be clipped but if they are not, their coats will stop growing. Llamas come in various colours, nearly thirty-five different shades. They are very gentle and very intelligent, their toes have soft pads and their nails have to be paired on occasion, similar to Camels’ feet.

Whilst they are very hardy they need to have shelter, their diet is similar to sheep, grass, hay and concentrates. Llamas should not be kept on their own, and will make good companions for horses or sheep.

It was the latter reason that introduced us to these lovely creatures.

During lambing we lost lambs, which was soul destroying as we lambed inside, and all lambs were strong when they were put out in the pad-docks. We used various deterrents from foul smelling plastic jackets, which had problems, and flashing lights moved from branch to branch of the trees.

That was eight years ago; we knew that they were difficult to come by at that time, but we got our first three Llamas. This was a magic jour-ney, they were nosey, unusual, and unique, and the bonus was no more lost lambs. (The Fox has a healthy respect for Llamas and won’t enter the paddock.) We now have steadily built up the herd, and have had three Crea (baby Llama) this year. Hopefully we will trek them in the future, a most enjoyable way to see the countryside.

Collective words Answers

1.A Pride of Lions

2. A Flock of Sheep.

3. A Pack of Hounds.

4. A School of porpoises.

5. A Flight of Aeroplanes.

6. A Band of Musicians.

7. A Gaggle of Geese.

8. A Company of Actors.

9. A Fleet of Cars.

10. A Skein of Yarn.

Here’s the answers. Kids

When community councils were set up by the local government (Scotland) act 1973 the main role of a community council was seen as being; to ascertain, co-ordinate, and express the views of the commu-nity which it represents. Then in more recent times the Local Govern-ment (Scotland) Act 1994 gave community councils the statutory right to be consulted on planning applications. The guidance from the then Scottish office stated quite clearly that the primary duty for CC's in terms of planning was to pass on information which would be of rele-vance to the planning department. This guidance came in the form of the Scottish Office Planning Advice Note 47 (1994), and interestingly does not ask community councils to come to any decision on whether or not to support a planning application. Working within the terms of reference set for us by this legislation and guidance, the Alyth Community Council conducted a two-month con-sultation on the Drumderg Wind Farm Application on the 1st Decem-ber. The consultation concluded with a well-attended public meeting on the 30th January, where community councillors were able to see at first hand the opinions of the townspeople. The consultation we conducted was not purely statistical. Statistics only help you in making a decision and more often than not are of little use to anyone afterwards. This is the reason why our consultation forms asked people to give backing evidence to their opinion, allowing the community council to know not only the way people felt but also why they felt that way. Two hundred and fifty copies of the Public Information Document that we produced prior to the consultation were taken up quickly by resi-dents. To our consultation we received 36 responses which were ac-cepted as being from people living within the boundaries of Alyth, giving us a return rate of only 11%. Despite the low return we received more than 4,000 more words of backing text to people’s opinions than had been expected if we had made the targeted 50% return mark. The low return means that when the community council puts Alyth's case forward to the Development Control Committee, a process which will happen in person, that more weight will be placed on the backing argu-ments rather than the statistical results. It would not be possible in the length of this article to go over the back-ing arguments we received, all of which are to be added to the website www.drumderg.org.uk over the coming month. However the statistical results were as follows: Those against the wind farm proposal 65% Those in favour of proposal 35% Those against wind energy in general 46% Those in favour of wind energy 54% A final report is being written which will include the results of the con-sultation along with all the backing arguments, a report from the public meeting, and a history of the proposal and the work done by the com-munity council and other organizations in the town. Every member of Perth & Kinross Council, our members of the Scottish Parliament and Westminster, and the media will receive copies of the report. Copies will be made available for public view, there will also be condensed copies available for people to take away, but as of yet we have no con-firmed location for these to be held. At the start of this article I mentioned the community council’s terms of reference, to ascertain, co-ordinate, and express the views of the com-munity. Our consultation process was aimed at ascertaining your views. Through public meetings, and the discussion forums on the web we have provided a platform for debate on the issue. The publication of the consultation results into a single document will co-ordinate these views. And finally, the community council will soon discuss how best the town's views can be expressed, to the best advantage of all the towns residents. Whatever the outcome of the planning application the community council will work to ensure that Alyth is well represented.

Robert Stewart Vice Chairman Alyth Community Council

ALYTH COMMUNITY COUNCIL ON DRUMDERG CONSULTATION REPORT

12

Mother’s Day Gifts and Plants Everything for the Gardening or DIY enthusiast

Sim into Sims Need tools? We are right on your doorstep, if we don’t have what you

need we can get it for you. Why not check us out before you take that journey into the City?

Many Other Items.

Tableware, Candles, Napkins, Decorations, Glasses All Shapes and Sizes.

We Have It All Keep warm this winter with supplies of Logs, Coal, Burning Peat, and Gas, all available and ready to deliver to your door.

Always that familiar face and friendly smile Tel: 01828 632309

DAVID SIM IRONMONGER

THE PENSION SERVICE IN ALYTH.THE PENSION SERVICE IN ALYTH.THE PENSION SERVICE IN ALYTH. OPEN DAY MONDAY 15 MARCH.OPEN DAY MONDAY 15 MARCH.OPEN DAY MONDAY 15 MARCH. AIRLIE STREET HALL 10AM TO 3PM.AIRLIE STREET HALL 10AM TO 3PM.AIRLIE STREET HALL 10AM TO 3PM. Would you like to know more about the new Pension Credit? Worried about how your State Pensions will be paid in the future? Confused about your future State Retirement Pension? Staff from the Government’s Pension Service will be available to answer any queries you may have. Other organisations will also be present including Tayside Energy Efficiency Advice Centre who will be giving advice on Fuel Economy and handing out free energy saving light bulbs. Other groups will include Edinburgh Disability Benefits Advice Centre who can help with claims to Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance and Carers Allowance; Perth & Kinross Pen-sioner’s Forum; Perth & Kinross Association Of Voluntary Service; Citizen’s Advice Bureau; Welfare Rights; Perthshire Care & Repair; Healthy Eating Initiative; Tayside Fire Brigade and Police; Strathmore &The Glens Rural Partnership; Veteran’s Agency; WRVS; Alyth Health Centre; Perth & Kinross Leisure; Community Learning. This is an ideal opportunity to ask any questions you may have in an informal setting and to find out more about the services on offer, and it is hoped that as many people as possible take advantage of it. Admission is free and free teas/coffees will be available.

SHADOWS FINAL TOUR CAIRD HALL DUNDEE

TUESDAY 4TH MAY £25

TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM GEO’S BAR

AIRLIE STREET ALYTH

Miss Strachan’s P5 pupils, along with their parents, took part in a French-style breakfast in the school hall on Tuesday 17th February. Meryl James, Staff Tutor in Modern Languages, guided the participants through all aspects of the French language and etiquette in this very enjoyable and practical lesson. The Parent-Staff Association held a very successful Fashion Show in the school hall on February 10th. Pupils and some staff members modelled the fashion items, which were supplied by George at ASDA. A large audience enjoyed the show, with many placing orders with the ASDA representatives who attended. The Parent-Staff Association A.G.M. and Bingo Tea will be held on Wednesday 31st March from 6.30pm.

ALYTH PRIMARY SCHOOL NEWS

ALYTH & DISTRICT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION Notice of Office Bearers and Committee Members after the Committee

meeting on Thursday the 19th of March 2004 Office-Bearers Chairperson Mr.Michael Kay Telephone Alyth 632252/632690 e-mail mike@atcalyth.freeserve.co.uk Vice-Chairperson Mrs.Flo McNeil Telephone Alyth 632986 Secretary /Treasurer Mrs. Nancy Kay Telephone Alyth 632690 Committee Mr. S. Eno, Mr. D. Brough, Mrs. R. Hognadottir , Mrs, K. Donaldson and Mrs. J. McGill. Will businesses in the Alyth & District Business Association area please note invitation on page 2 of this issue of Alyth Voice, about The Annual General Meeting.