Glencairn Gazette
lssue 68
FREE to EVERY household in Glencairn & Tynron
February/March 2011
Find us on: www.moniaive.org.uk
Established 2000
Extra copies 50p
Water, Ice and Fire
Photo: Sue Grant
Photo: Bernard Walker
Above and below: The many holes of Moniaive
Photo: Sue Grant
Right: Fire engines attend fire in High Street
am writing to you in relation to your constituents who suffered
an interruption to their water supply during this period of
severe weather.
As you know, weather conditions have been extreme and last
month was Scotland’s coldest December on record. For
Scottish Water it has meant dealing with the deepest frost we
have ever seen in the ground affecting, not only our water
infrastructure but the infrastructure of our customers’ pipes.
What an end to the old and a start to the new year! Ice, snow,
more ice, frozen pipes, still more ice and a fire. Glencairn
certainly suffered during this festive period.
At some time or the other the following premises were without
water from before Christmas to January 13th. At least seven
households in North Street; several houses in Ayr and High Street;
five in Chapel Street including the Surgery and School; most
houses in The Grainnes and several in Dalmacellan View,
Dunreggan and many outlying farms and houses.
Many still have a temporary supply – sometimes coming in via
a hose through the windows! Every time a car passes over the
temporary pipe located at Duncan Saunderson’s in Chapel Street
his water system vibrates and sounds like there is someone
knocking on the door. Duncan played a big part in trying to get
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things sorted.
“My involvement in helping was in part by some degree of selfinterest and not altogether because I am a Community Councillor,”
he explained.
When bottled water was finally delivered Duncan and his
daughter-in-law, Bianca, visiting from South Africa, unloaded the
pallets and stored them in the Institute for those in need to collect.
“After Bianca helped unload the two pallets of water I found
her flat out on the settee at home,” said Duncan. Further deliveries
of water were unloaded by helpers and CommunityCcouncil
members.
Causies Cross B&B was one of a few businesses affected. “We
had to cancel all the bookings we had over Christmas and New
Year,” said Wendy Wall. “Not a good end or start to the year, it has
cost us dearly.”
Wendy also had a run-in with the call centre... “When I spoke
to them the woman on the end of the phone said: ‘Well at least you
don’t live in the middle of nowhere.’ I asked her what she meant
and she replied ‘Well your address is High Street’!”
People with water were very good at offering places to shower
to those without water.
Cllr Gill Dykes came by on the first day that water was
delivered late in the afternoon to check we were being supplied.
She said, “Following numerous calls from residents in the village,
and several calls by me to Scottish Water on constituents behalf,
Scottish Water finally agreed to send a supply of bottled water to
the village but still maintained that it was not their problem. I
would like to thank Alan Thomson and his staff from Scottish
Water who bypassed the call centre and sent us water, I would also
like to thank Duncan, Robert, Bianca and Trevor for helping to
unload the pallets.”
Scottish Water said: “Since Christmas our teams have worked
tirelessly and at full capacity, to keep Scottish Water’s supply
system operating normally. We successfully maintained the water
supply to well over 99 per cent of our customers by managing the
treatment works, reservoirs and fixing burst pipes.
“We are fully aware, however, that some of our customers
across Dumfries & Galloway did not have running tap water as a
result of frozen or burst pipes in their homes and gardens, or on our
network, or a combination of both. In normal winter conditions
frozen pipes are unusual but when it does occur they normally
thaw quickly when the weather turns. In this prolonged freeze, to
this extraordinary depth in the ground, the thaw has not
happened.”
It seems the freeze went down to 700-750mm which is the
depth of water pipes. There were some who thought that newer
pipes had been laid at a higher level but on looking at the plans of
water pipes it appears there is no correlation between the dates the
pipes were laid and those which froze. The majority of pipes seem
to date from 1954 with the newest 2006. The only odd thing is
how, in some streets, one house would be off whilst neighbouring
properties were OK.
Work on repairing the damaged pipes and making permanent
connections will continue once the thaw has reached the frozen
ground.
On January 19th the weather turned cold again with a heavy
frost and the Surgery, and other premises, were once again without
water. When Cath, the receptionist, called the call centre to report
this the suggestion she was given was to put hot towels on the
pipes. Just where they thought Cath could get hot towels is a
mystery. At this time many houses were still connected by
hosepipes. All we need now is a hosepipe ban to complete the
misery!
The Community Council have requested a ‘technical’ report on
2 • Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011
the frozen pipes to see if anything can be done to stop this
happening again.
For those who did have water it wasn’t all plain sailing. Burst
pipes galore have been reported with ceilings down and
belongings ruined. Getting a phone call asking if I was OK for
water when I was mopping up the kitchen (again) gave me a small
laugh!
Frozen pipes also included outlets and many spent Christmas
unable to use the water they were lucky enough to have.
Then at the beginning of January two fire engines responded to
a house fire in the High Street. Thankfully no one was hurt but the
back bedroom of the cottage was extensively damaged.
On top of all this was the problem of travelling, well just about
anywhere...
We are assured that the ‘main routes’ were gritted according to
weather patterns; however we all know that Moniaive village
turned into a skating rink and rural roads from and into Glencairn
were just about impassable.
Black ice continued to be a problem throughout January with a
record number of minor and more serious accidents taking place
across the region.
Potholes now seem to be a permanent hazard on some of our
roads and in some instances pot‘hole’ seems a benign description!
The Community Council were able to access extra pavement
gritters, salt and shovels and a team of hardy volunteers did their
level best to keep the pavements clear. However, in some cases the
depth and solidity of the ice made this a nigh impossible job.
Our thanks do go to those who came out in all weathers to try to
make our pavements safer.
The frozen ground meant water from the hillside, unable to
drain into the earth, swept into Gaups Mill flooding the cottage one
night. This wasn’t the burn bursting its banks but surface water.
The freezing weather has also had an impact on many working
in the parish. Those involved in forestry, dyking, building and
construction have all had to stop work during the cold period.
Cement needs higher temperatures to set; dykes built on frozen
ground are in danger of collapsing once the ground thaws, moves
and resettles; trees can’t be planted as the ground is too hard to dig.
Farmers have been hit hard too with extra work ensuring livestock
are fed and watered.
Let’s all hope that things start to improve now – and that
includes the weather!
Sue Grant
Double Yellow Lines Survey
At the January meeting of Glencairn Community Council
the results of the survey (last issue of the Gazette) were
collated and totalled up.
23 people responded. 15 were in favour of extending the
yellow lines and eight against.Those against the proposal
included local businesses and those living in or nearby Chapel
Street, and all gave reasons for their decision.
Community Councillors then voted on the proposal: ‘The result
of the Gazette survey on double yellow lines being extended on
the East side of Chapel Street from the Craigdarroch to the
School sign: 15 for 8 against. Vote at the meeting, For: proposed
Robin McIver, seconded Duncan Saunderson. Against:
proposed Val McNeil, seconded Sue Grant. Motion carried 6 :
2.’ (From January Commuity Council Minutes)
So the proposal to extend the yellow lines was carried and
this decision has been passed to the roads department of D&G
Council with a view to getting double yellow lines in place.
Sue Grant
Jock’s Hogmanay Walk 2010
Photos © Dave McFadzean
Well over thirty hardy hikers turned out for this very
enjoyable annual event. We started as usual from the cherry
tree at The Cross. It turned out to be a rather grey morning
after all the fine frosty weather we had just experienced.
Technically our youngest traveller was not a walker at all
but did the entire trek being carried along by parent power.
Most of the snow and ice had thawed but some sections of
water ice proved tricky to negotiate. We walked down the back
road for a while and then climbed up the undulating track to
near the lonely shooters hut on Green Craig hill. Just after that
we encountered a rather tricky and high dry stone dyke
crossing. It took a wee while to get the whole party over this
obstacle. Our route then joined the side of the Jarbruck burn.
relaxed and everybody seemed to enjoy the outing. Even the
wee baby seemed to enjoy the fresh air.
At The George, Robin had soup, sannies, sausage rolls and
mince pies awaiting all us hungry hikers. What a great way to
round off the auld year.
Well done again Jock.
Dave McFadzean
Thank you
On a wee rocky knoll by the burn we stopped off for our
lunch. As usual the traditional dram bottle and hot water was
passed around courtesy of Joe Boyes. Suitably fortified we then
traversed down through several fields until we eventually
reached a very icy track. This rough roadway was absolutely
covered in lethal water ice. Eventually we all managed to slither
gingerly down past Jarbruck to join the back road.
All that remained after that was the longish road walk back
along to the village. This year was the 20th walk and again Jock
our leader picked a good one. The pace as usual was very
Thanks are due to those who turned out to help make the
village look as festive as possible.
Mr and Mrs Fletcher and helpers for once again decorating
the Cross and making it a beautiful centrepiece to the village.
The Forestry Commission (for the Christmas tree) and those
Community Councillors who erected and decorated it.
In the snow it all looked lovely!
After School Update
Ice at Jarbruck
The price for childcare at breakfast club and after school club
will be changing from February onwards to £4 per hour.
This means that new prices will be as follows:
Breakfast club:
From 7.45am - 8.45am: £4
After school club:
From 3.30pm - 4.30pm: £4
From 3.30pm - 5.30pm: £8
From 3.30pm - 6.00pm: £10
Our billing system is also changing and each parent will now
be issued with e-bills at the end of each month. Parents may also
receive their bills by text message if they wish to do so.
If you have any questions or enquiries please contact
Andy on our new number which is 01848 200153 or e-mail
[email protected]
Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011 • 3
Photo: Cairn Chorus
If music be the food of love play on!
A Twelfth Night to remember
Cairn Chorus's Twelfth Night concert this year was a great
success, playing to a capacity audience in the green
festooned Institute.
Audience members were full of praise – “A lovely evening –
great music and singing and a fun atmosphere”; “The choir has
really matured and their delivery is superb”; “An unusual and
interesting choice of songs”; “A talented bunch of musicians and
New Year’s Day Ceilidh
While the Gala committee were getting the Institute ready for
the Ceilidh, a new member started arranging chairs at the
ends of the tables.
“We don't do that for this event,” another member told him,
“because the dancing gets rather wild…”
And so it did. The band was brilliant, as always, even though
Jane Carson, who arranged the band and plays the fiddle, had to
leave early because she had a bad cold. She usually does the
calling for the dances but another member of the band took over
and even demonstrated the steps for some of them.
First-timers who’d never been to a ceilidh before were able to
muddle through quite happily, like those of us who’d forgotten the
steps from last year. Some of the men and boys had come in their
kilts and looked splendid. The dancing was uproarious and the
room was packed with wild swirling dancers.
One the things I like about ceilidhs is that all the family joins
in – children dancing with Mum and Dad, which they don’t often
do. You can see they love it and it’s not just because they’re
getting to stay up late. This is the kind of evening they’ll
remember when they’re old.
The Gala Commitee would like to thank the musicians, all who
helped and especially all those who came and danced the night
away.
Su Palmer-Jones
Police warning
There have been reports of a suspicious person trying to buy
items like scrap metal, old batteries etc and thefts of heating
oil.
Police suggest that care is taken when dealing with unknown
persons and that if in doubt please report visits to them together
with vehicle details if possible.
4 • Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011
singers”; and “A great evening” – were just some of the
comments made.
The scene was set at the beginning, with reminders of what
Twelfth Night is all about – not only the final day of the 12 days
of Christmas celebration, it marks the coming of the Magi – the
three wise men to visit the Christ child. But apparently it
predates Christianity with winter celebrations going right back
to Celtic times and even earlier too. Traditional dances and
feasts were the order of the day and the custom of the Lord of
Misrule where the normal order of things was tuned upside
down during the festivities. Happily there was no misrule during
the evening, but there was plenty of laughter, food and mulled
wine along with the music. In fact it turned into quite a party.
The choir's Director, Ali Burns, specialises in researching old
and forgotten carols and winter ballads, and the programme
comprised a blend of traditional Scots and English tunes, with
West Galloway music and Afro-Caribbean spirituals.
Now two and a half years old, Cairn Chorus is going from
strength to strength, performing not only locally but in
Edinburgh and other parts of the region too.
New members are most welcome to come and try for
themselves this type of natural singing. There is no requirement
to read music or to audition, as most songs are learned orally.
The choir meets on Thursdays at 7.30 pm in St Ninians, and the
new session begins on February 24th when preparations for this
year’s Moniaive Folk Festival begin.
Cairn Chorus
Body Shop Party
The Guides are hosting a Body Shop party on Tuesday 22nd
March from 7 to 9pm in the Memorial Institute.
This is your chance to buy your mum the perfect Mother’s
Day present or just a treat for yourself.
The Guides will have catalogues available beforehand if you
would like to pre-order or be unable to attend (contact Cathie or
Sharon). Any orders placed must be paid for on the night.
The girls will also be running a Board Raffle around the
village for £1 a square.
Money raised will be used towards taking the girls to the
Edinburgh International Climbing Arena. The 50p entry charge
includes refreshments.
Cath Harley
■ ■ ■ ■ TILING ■ ■ ■ ■
■ CERAMIC ■ SLATE ■ MARBLE ■ MOSAIC etc.
On to
■ WALLS ■ FLOORS ■ BATHROOMS
■ KITCHENS ■ STEPS ■ WORKTOPS ■ TABLES etc.
Anything that stands still!
DESIGN & PRICE ADVICE AVAILABLE Emails welcome.
■ Alasdair Mclean ■
Home: 01848 200 321
Mobile: 07875 076571
Email: [email protected]
Photo: Sue Grant
Dr Behzad joins Cairn
Valley Practice
VALENTINE
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PASTA/PIZZA EVENING
In November 2010 the Cairn Valley Practice welcomed
Doctor Behzad Nosratzadeh to the practice.
“Many people have difficulty pronouncing my surname so I
am known as Doctor Behzad by everyone!” Doctor Behzad
explained.
Originally from Iran, where he still has family, Doctor
Behzad came to Britain in 1995 where he attended a college in
London and then medical school in Dundee.
In 2005 he and his wife moved to Australia for a year and a
half. Although an enjoyable experience Doctor Behzad said “We
missed Scotland and even the rain!” So they returned to
Scotland a place he says, “....always felt like home more than
anywhere else.”
His three year GP training post brought him to Dumfries and
Galloway where he worked for two years in the hospital and a
year in Lochmaben.
When the chance came to work for the Cairn Valley Practice
he was delighted as he and his family have settled happily in
Dumfries.
“I always wanted to be a GP in a rural area,” he said. “This is
a lovely practice in a lovely area and gives me a chance to enjoy
both my work and life – the perfect practice for me.”
Doctor Behzad particularly enjoys the chance to get to know
people better as, compared to a city practice, the client base is
smaller.
“I hope to stay here and settle roots and get to know the
people and area better,” he concluded.
We would like to wish Doctor Behzad and his family a very
happy time here in Glencairn.
Sue Grant
Windfarm Fund
All applications to the fund to be in by 28th. February. Forms
from any Community Councillor or [email protected]
or call 01848 200331.
The allocation meeting is set for 21st March.
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Tel: 01848 200057
Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011 • 5
Photos: Su Palmer-Jones
Victorian Xmas Fair
The next thing on the programme was the Pudding Race; but
that was cancelled, as it would have been dangerous for
contestants to run along the snow-slippery streets. Instead, there
was a snowman-building competition in Macara Park. Four
groups entered this competition, which was judged by two
members of the Gala committee.
Hog-roast stall behind the Craigdarroch
The Dickensian weather meant that many of the well-laid
plans had to be changed at the last minute. It also made
many folk stay indoors rather than coming out to enjoy the
fun. But those who did venture forth had a great time.
The day started with Santa’s Sleigh-ride around the village.
Santa in his red coat against the white snow looked like a picture
on a Christmas card.
The Christmas Market was going to be outside, around the
Cross. But it turned out that a permit for stopping the traffic
would cost £70 and it was this, rather than the snow, that sent the
market stalls into the Institute.
The market wasn’t exactly bustling but it was colourful, with
Harlee Watson’s crocheted designer jackets and a stall of bright
Indian clothes. There was also a jewellery stall run by a lady
wearing an amazing Victorian dress in purple taffeta. “I do a lot
of Dickensian Fairs,” she explained. (I hadn’t realised there
were a lot - or indeed any - until she said that!)
Homer Simpson snowman and lads who built him.
A Dad (whose wee helper has wandered off) making a Snowman
sitting on a park bench
Victorian dress
6 • Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011
The snow wasn’t very good for building stand-up snowmen,
so two of the groups created lying-down snowman and the other
two made sitting snowmen.
The two first prizes were won by the two lying-down
snowmen: Homer Simpson and the Sleeping Princess.
The two second prizes were won by the seated snowmen.
One sat on a bench in the park, the other sat on the ground. The
prizes were Christmas puddings!
There was a time when it was totally normal to see someone
spinning. Almost every home in the land had a spinner in it;
indeed, spinning was the usual day-job of unmarried girls
You can see from the style, this is going to be a really cool
Snowman by David.
(hence the word 'spinster'). Nowadays, though, it's very rare to
see someone spinning. So it was a shame that only a few people
turned up to watch Edwina Fletcher spinning. Are there no little
girls out there interested in testing the scientific aspects of how
Sleeping Beauty pricked her finger? Still, Edwina enjoyed
talking to the story-tellers!
Scrooge looks out of a window at the George
The combination of the snow and an early moon-rise made
the children’s performance of ‘A Christmas Carol’ into a
magical occasion. It was performed in and around the George
Hotel.
Stuart Hall was an excellent Scrooge. At one point, when the
children forgot their words, Stuart filled the gap by
extemporising, inspired by a sudden chorus of birds in a nearby
tree. “Listen to the birds!” he exhorted one and all.
The Victorian Fair should be counted as a success, because
the people who took part enjoyed it. Many thanks to Jade
Goddard for organising it. I hope that the weather and all the
last-minute changes of plan won’t discourage her and that she
will organise another one this year.
Su Palmer-Jones
Sustainable Moniaive
The new Sustainable Moniaive group met for the first time
at the Craigdarroch on January 19th where the following
were discussed:
Food: To save on food miles and be more self-sufficient, we
could grow our own in a community garden.
Above: by moonlight
Below: by lamplight
Energy: To generate cheap electricity for Moniaive we could
have a village windmill or miniature watermills on some of the
smaller streams. Landowners of said streams would get free
electricity.
Housing: A progressive builder from Dalbeattie told us about
low-cost, energy-efficient housing which wouldn't look
anything like any existing houses!
Transport: The existing bus services are going to be reduced.
We need to look at new options and find out what bus-users
want.
Three subgroups were formed to focus on Food, Energy and
Housing. There wasn’t time to do more than mention the
transport situation before the meeting closed.
The next meeting of the Sustainable Moniaive group is on
Tuesday February 15th, again at the Craigdarroch. Everyone
welcome.
If you want to know more, contact John Wheeler on
01848 200478.
Sustainable Moniaive Group
Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011 • 7
Photo: Harlee & Nick
Coming to Moniaive
seem small, it was big enough to house a mixture of people with
different backgrounds living, pretty much, in harmony and with
a joy for life. To make a long story short, I found an incredible
percentage of the population very aware of life and what matters
in life. I found a big sense of community and a drive to keep
‘things’ alive! Just to give an example, I was delighted to see
how the children and especially the teenagers behaved, talked,
shared, thought and lived. A proof of what the adults were and
did. It gave me hope for the future and a call to become part of
that effort that created such an atmosphere.
No, not everything is perfect. Good, then I have a chance to
fit in. I like to put my effort in worthwhile causes and there are
many to be found here. For starters, Harlee is happy. Happy to
be back, happy to be with the people she loves. I am happy for
her, and for myself. Yes the final sign of our journey was right:
‘Welcome to Moniaive’ (Please drive carefully). Well, I'll try to
keep on the proper side of the road.
Nick
Casarabonela
Photo: Harlee & Nick
The road signs passed by one after the other. They began in
Spanish, then French took over and finally English. They
marked our route from Andalucia to Moniaive. Yes, we had
arrived on a dark night after days on the road.
For Harlee it was a coming home, to me, a chosen destiny.
See, after a brief visit a few months ago to meet her new
granddaughter, family and friends, we went back to
Casarabonela in Málaga with a decision made: we were to come
to Moniaive to live. It just took us 45 days to settle things down
there and get on the road where the signs flashed as we passed
them charting our journey.
There are many reasons behind our decision. I'll share some
of mine.
Scotland, in particular the South seemed somehow familiar to
me, even though I had been here just once before, the time we
came to meet Harlee's granddaughter. The scenery and the way
people behaved and treated me (us) was warm, honest, direct
and unaffected. When visiting Moniaive I also sensed an energy
that was gentle yet rich and deep. Regardless of the comments
that it always rains, that it is cold and grey, I felt warm and well
with the energy I perceived. I was happy. A happiness that came
from inside outwards. As said, I felt I was home.
Moniaive struck me (still does), as a magical village set in
story tale surroundings as if keeping a world of its own. It didn't
Well what can I add to that?!! For me Scotland, more so
Moniaive has always held my soul and after Del died the
yearning reappeared, but it takes a while to see clearly...
anyway some magic happened in my life last Easter and here
I am again and life just gets better.
For those of you who think I have to be crazy to leave sunny
Spain, well the winters in a mountain village can be very wet
and miserable as the houses aren’t designed to keep you warm,
only cool in the summer when it can get into the 40’s and that is
too hot – try working in that heat!! Spring and Autumn are the
times to be there! Don’t get me wrong Casarabonela is a
beautiful village, and I am grateful for my time there and the
friends I made (beware they will be visiting), living in a
different culture, the kindness from locals and ‘incomers’ - my
ties will never be completely severed.
I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who has made this
move/transition so easy, helped and welcomed us... Thanks
folks.
Harlee
Beware who calls
Local people will be aware that the government’s Energy
Savings Trust has been in the area recently doing energy
reports on our homes and advising about possible measures to
improve energy efficiency. Some of these measures are eligible
for grants in certain circumstances.
Following the visit, the Trust arranges for an energy surveyor to
come and make a detailed estimate of work needed and costs or
grants available.It may have been coincidence, but a week after the
visit I received a call from a company called Energy Care wanting
to make an appointment for an energy surveyor to call. I asked if
they were the agents for the Energy Savings Trust and the answer
was – “Yes, we work with the Energy Savings Trust”. However I
was concerned that they seemed a bit evasive about the details of
the referral from the Trust, so I phoned to find out if they are
indeed the Trust’s agents. The answer is emphatically not. “We do
not use this company at all” said the Energy Savings Trust. “The
company for this area is Miller Paterson – who are properly
qualified and authorised to carry out the work identified in our
energy reports. They will be in contact with you soon”.
Carol Godridge
8 • Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011
FUNI Concert
Bára Grímsdóttir and Chris Foster
On Wednesday 23rd February there will be a concert of
captivating Icelandic music and song with slide show in the
Masonic Hall.
FUNI (an old Icelandic word meaning fire) are Bára Grímsdóttir
and Chris Foster, consummate performers of the traditional songs
of Iceland and England. They are both powerful solo singers, but
when they sing together, especially in the unique Icelandic
tvísöngur harmony style, the resulting blend of voices, enhanced
by stunning musicianship and beautiful photographic projections,
is a spell binding mix.
Bára and Chris have been working together since 2000. They
have pioneered the blending of English finger style guitar, with
kantele to accompany the modal melodies of Icelandic traditional
song. They also both play and are actively promoting the revival
of Iceland’s traditional instruments.
Bára and Chris have performed and taught at festivals, concerts,
summer schools and on radio and TV in Belgium, China,
Hungary, Netherlands, Norway and the USA as well as
throughout Iceland and Britain.
They released the acclaimed CD ‘FUNI’ in 2004. Their new CD
‘MAN EG’ was released in May 2010.
“Singly, each singer is a great presenter of the music of a native
island, but as a duo with great skill and musicality, they transform
the music of their islands into universals.” Concert review for the
Folk Society of Greater Washington, USA
“Funi puts the Icelandic folk music culture on the map of world
music.” Marius Roeting, New Folk Sounds magazine,
Netherlands.
You can listen to them at: www.myspace.com/funireykjavik
and www.myspace.com/chrisfosterfolk.
Wendy Stewart
The Craigdarroch Arms Hotel
High Street, Moniaive
Sunday Roast Carvery
• Tender Roast Pork
• Prime Galloway Beef
• Wild Roast Venison
• Served with all the trimmings.
Soup and Carvery £9.50 per person
All you can eat • 12noon-8pm
All produce locally sourced
Weekly Specials of Seafood
and Shellfish
The Craigdarroch uses fish and shellfish from sustainable sources
“The quality of our
food speaks for
itself!”
TO CHECK AVAILABILITY AND TO BOOK CALL 01848 200205
Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011 • 9
Moniaive Folk Festival 6-8 May 2011 Preview
Here’s a taster of what you can expect at
this year’s Moniaive Folk Festival. This
year’s line up includes: Emily Smith
Band, Breabach, Martin Carthy and
Chris Parkinson, Kilultagh, Cassard,
Cairn Chorus with Ali Burns,
workshops, sessions, Green Tea Music
and Late Night Extra.
Dumfries & Galloway's Emily Smith is
one of the leading singers of the
contemporary Scottish folk scene. Her
powerful, clear vocals have gained her
award winning, worldwide recognition. As
a songwriter Emily has been likened to ‘a
Scottish Joni Mitchell’, but as a passionate
collector she is equally adept at presenting
fresh and evocative interpretations of
traditional songs.
Her new release, Traiveller’s Joy,
features songs written on the road
throughout 2010 beautifully blending
alongside traditional material sourced from
the travelling people of Scotland. Emily
continues to draw inspiration from her
home area of rural Dumfriesshire in South
West Scotland but this release sees her
writing from a more personal viewpoint
than before. Covers include Rick Kemp’s
‘Somewhere Along the Road’, which
Emily recently performed on BBC1’s
‘Songs of Praise’ and ‘Waltzing’s For
Dreamers’ by Richard Thompson, whom
Emily opened for on his UK tour in 2009
and was subsequently featured at London’s
Meltdown Festival 2010 during his year as
curator.
Guest musicians feature an international
line up including Nashville’s Stuart
Duncan on fiddle, Dublin’s Alan Doherty
on flute and whistles, Australia’s James
Fagan on bouzouki and Icelandic/Scot
Signy Jakobsdottir on percussion with
regular band mates Duncan Lyall on
double bass and producer Jamie
McClennan on guitar and fiddle.
Breabach are one of the most inventive
and diverse bands to have emerged from
the Scottish folk scene in recent years.
From their foot-stomping reels to their
heartwarming delivery of songs, there can
be no doubt why Breabach has become a
household name for many on the folk and
roots music scene and they have been
nominated as Best Band in the BBC Radio
2 Folk Awards 2011.
Breabach’s huge sound is dominated by
the twin bagpipes of Calum MacCrimmon
and Donal Brown. This uncompromising
force is complemented by the
extraordinary fiddle playing of Patsy Reid
and is further supported by the charismatic
yet propulsive guitar playing of Ewan
Robertson, named BBC Young Traditional
Musician of the Year 2008.
Breabach’s enviable musicianship is
coupled with a delightful ability to connect
with their audience, a combination that has
gained the band international recognition
as one of Scotland’s leading new acts.
“Arguably the greatest English folk song
performer, writer, collector and editor of
them all,” Q Magazine
For more than 40 years Martin Carthy
has been one of folk music’s greatest
innovators, one of its best loved, most
enthusiastic and, at times, most quietly
controversial of figures. His skill, stage
presence and natural charm have won him
many admirers, not only from within the
folk scene, but also far beyond it.
Trailblazing musical partnerships with,
amongst others, Steeleye Span, Dave
Swarbrick and his award-winning wife
(Norma Waterson) and daughter Eliza
Carthy have resulted in more than 40
albums, but Martin has only recorded 10
solo albums, of which the much anticipated
Waiting for Angels (Topic TSCD527) is
Glencairn History Group
AGM
7.30pm Thursday March 3rd
Memorial Institute
Chapel Street, Moniaive
All Welcome – Refreshments
Further Information:
Bob Martin 07772 877 443
the latest.
Whether in the folk clubs (which he
continues to champion), on the concert
stage or making TV appearances (he was
the subject of the acclaimed ‘Originals’
music documentary strand on BBC 2) there are few roles that Martin Carthy
hasn’t played. He’s a ballad singer, a
ground-breaking acoustic and electric
guitarist and an authoritative interpreter of
newly composed material. He always
prefers to follow an insatiable musical
curiosity rather than cash in on his
unrivalled position. Perhaps, most
significant of all, are his settings of
traditional songs with guitar, which have
influenced a generation of artists, including
Bob Dylan and Paul Simon, on both sides
of the Atlantic.
“For four decades, Martin Carthy's work
has immeasurably enriched the British folk
heritage. He is regarded as one of the finest
singers and interpreters of traditional
music of the British Isles, as well as a
highly influential and much-imitated
guitarist. Awarded the MBE for services to
English folk music in 1998, his drive and
enthusiasm are undiminished and he
continues to be one of folk music's great
innovators.” BBC website
Chris Parkinson plays accordion,
melodeon, harmonica and much more. A
founder member of the influential House
Band, he is in great demand both for live
performance and studio session work with
luminaries from the folk scene and beyond.
Killultagh will bring the passion and fire
of Northern Irish session music to the stage
of the Moniaive Folk Festival. Featuring
twin fiddles, Uileann pipes, guitar and
bodhran, they went down a storm at Girvan
last year and are set to raise the marquee
roof here this year!
Cassard are Christoph Pelgen (Song,
French bagpipe, Bombarde, Mandolin) and
Johannes Meyer (Accordion, Nyckelharp)
from Germany playing ‘Traditional music
from Tomorrow’. They were here last year
playing to an ecstatic crowd in Corsock
and their beautiful mixture of French,
Breton, German and Swedish music is
guaranteed to get a crowd on its feet
whether they know the steps or not!
Cairn Chorus - your local community
choir. Traditional and original song
arranged by the fabulous Ali Burns.
We look forward to seeing you all at the
festival.
Wendy Stewart
10 • Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011
Loch Hill Windfarm
Residents might be forgiven for thinking spooks were abroad
in St John’s Town of Dalry, as night fell on January 1st.
Passers-by were intrigued as a small group of ‘White Yule
Boys’ accompanied by two fiddlers as they performed their
dumbshow.
Two masked figures fighting over a curious large wind
turbine-like structure. The white knight had a sign round his
neck that read ‘No wind giants here’ and he made short work
with his stick of the obviously dastardly villain in the black hat
who sloped off into the darkness with the wind turbine.
Guising, called ‘mumming’ in England, was once common
practice at this time of year, and may even date back to
prehistoric times, as a celebration of the winter solstice.
“Some of our younger members have been researching old
customs,” said Alison Chapman, Co-ordinator of GLARE
(Galloway Landscape And Renewable Energy), the group
responsible for performing the event in the Glenkens.
“The application for 11 wind turbines at Lochinvar, just
north of Dalry, was the trigger for members to come out and
take part in one of the oldest folk play traditions in Scotland.
Most people will know the expression Young Lochinvar but
how many people, even those who live close, know that Young
Lochinvar lived just up the road at the loch where these wind
turbines are planned?
“In Sir Walter Scott’s poem ‘Marmion’ you can read how
‘Young Lochinvar came out of the west’ to snatch his true love
away from the villain who was just about to marry her so two
young GLARE members, both musicians, adapted that story to
fit in with the guisers folk play. They do not want to see the
hills of the Glenkens disfigured by industrial wind giants but,
even more, they want to draw attention to the fact that this
technology is as ineffective as it is inappropriate in our
community.
“The John Muir Trust have just produced a report based on
actual output figures from 47 wind farms which, over 395
days, produced not the 30% the developers claim but in fact
only 22% of their capacity. The Loch Hill wind farm would
have eleven turbines, each 300ft (100m) high on a hill farm
next to Lochinvar which only recently was controversially
given permission for forestry despite all the local concern about
its impact on the landscape and ecology.”
In his poem Marmion Sir Walter Scott says:
Who lists may in their mumming see
Traces of ancient mystery
White shirts supply the masquerade
And smutted cheeks the visors made.
For further information please contact Alison Chapman
01644 420812. Comments on the proposed wind farm
should be received at the Planning Office, Market St, Castle
Douglas by February 10th.
'Bluegrass Connections'
'Bluegrass Connections' is a partnership between Moniaive
Michaelmas Bluegrass Festival and Glencairn & Moniaive
Parisk Kirk to give folk a musical treat on a winter's night.
On Saturday 23rd January performers entertained around 60
people and were provided with an introduction to the autoharp
of Whithorn based Nadine Stah White supported by her
husband Ian on melodeon. Nadine's version of 'Carrickfergus'
was appreciated by listeners and she gave a little cameo
introduction to each of her tunes to illustrate how old timey and
country music migrated to become bluegrass.
The Woodshed All Stars from Newton Stewart played two
sets of Americana music, an enjoyable mix of bluegrass
standards and more contemporary songs. Safe to say by the
time the end of their second set arrived the receptive audience
asked for more and got it! This band are quite unique as they
are not a hard driving bluegrass band nor are they country but
their ability to straddle various genres sets them up for a bright
future. An excellent sound quality was produced by John
Weatherby of Sound Sense and the concert provided a real treat
and once again showed live music is the best music!
C. Paul Lyttle
Artistic Director
Robert J. Leighton
Photography
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Mob: 07770 417527
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Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011 • 11
Glencairn History Group
The History Group starts back after the Christmas break
with the first of our bi-monthly talks in 2011.
Nic Coombey will be well known to many through his work
with Solway Heritage and we are looking forward to his talk
on the heritage of drystane dyking. This may seem a limited
subject to talk about but a quick glance around Glencairn
shows how much these walls are an integral part of the
Galloway landscape.
Nic’s talk will be exploring the connection between dyking
and local society as well as illustrating the methods and
techniques employed in this skilled work.
Sophia Harkness will be presenting the April Talk on the
history of our neighbouring parishes i.e. Penpont, Keir and
Tynron. Sophia illustrates her talks with photographs, slides
and documents and promises a fascinating evening.
The speaker for June is Graeme Roberts from the Ewart
Library in Dumfries. Graeme’s subject is Nithsdale-born Peter
Rae; a multi-talented genius noted for his artistic, academic
and intellectual talents. His many interests often brought him
to Moniaive and his associations with Glencairn parish were
considerable.
We will be holding our 2011 Annual General Meeting on
Thursday March 3rd, at 7.30pm, in the Memorial Institute,
Chapel Street, Moniaive. Everyone is welcome to attend - the
better to find out what we are about in the History Group as
well as join us in some refreshments.
The Group are hoping that our plans for various projects
come to fruition during the year and further details will be
announced when arrangements have been confirmed.
Glencairn History Group is always keen to recruit new
members and anyone interested in finding out about our
activities is encouraged to come along to our regular meetings
held on the first Thursday of each month (7.30pm) in the
Memorial Institute, Chapel Street, Moniaive.
For further information contact:
Bob Martin, Stables Cottage, Barjarg Tower,
Auldgirth DG2 0TN
Tel. 07772 877 443
email [email protected].
Allan Davidson
Fencing Contractor
All types of fencing – agricultural & domestic
Timber Gates
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• choice of styles & materials
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Tel/Fax: 01848 200200 Mobile: 07775690624
Email : [email protected]
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12 • Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011
Glencairn History Group
Programme of Speakers 2011
Thursday February 3rd 7.30pm
Nic Coombey (Solway Heritage) – “Heritage of
Drystane Dyking”
Thursday April 7th 7.30pm
Sophia Harkness – “History of Penpont and Other
Parishes”
Thursday June 2nd 7.30pm
Graeme Roberts (Ewart Library) – “Peter Rae:
Printer and Genius”
Further talks will be arranged for August, October
and December
Memorial Institute, Chapel Street, Moniaive
£1 Members - £3 Non-members
Refreshments
Further Information:
Bob Martin 07772 877 443
Cairn Curling Club
Season 2010-2011 is well through but so far only one of the
Club trophies has been settled. The Glenbank Trophy has
been won by Graeme Geddes and his rink of Sheila
Glendinning, Archie Anderson and Rian Hill, who were
unbeaten in this year’s competition.
The Club Medal has not yet been decided and will depend
on the result of the last game on 27th January between Gavin
Kilgour and Jimmy Anderson.
The third series of games for the Team Tankard has just
started and will be completed by the end of February with the
Individual Points competition to finish off the season.
The Club, as usual, has participated in the Upper Nithsdale
League but, despite being past winners, have not done well this
year and remain in a low position in the League. We also made
an early exit from the Upper Nithsdale Cup Competition.
This season has seen an encouraging number of new
members but we would welcome more curlers and beginners.
The new curling rink at Dumfries means that there is more ice
available and new members could easily be accommodated on
practice ice or in the club competitions.
Please contact Jack Buckham on 01387 820478 if
interested.
Cairn Curling Club
JOHN STOTT
JOINER
01848 200325
THE DOMINIES HOUSE AYR STREET, MONIAIVE
Great care is taken in all work
STRAVAIGING 27 – HADRIAN’S WALL – THE BEST BIT
Photos © Dave McFadzean
One of the most interesting parts of the great northern
Roman wall lies between Housesteads Roman fort and Steel
Rigg, high above the celebrated Twice Brewed Inn.
the Romans thought of this desolate frontier posting? Not much
I would expect. Dramatic views open up as you climb. To the
north there is a series of loughs (Irish spelling) not lakes as is
the case further south and west. Maybe the Irish had some
influence here in the dark ages after the Romans left?
At a gap in the cliffs the Pennine Way heads north to thread
between two loughs. Ravens croak above the crags and kestrels
hover here looking for a quick meal. The rock along the
escarpment is the famous Whin Sill. It runs through the
Pennines, along the wall and out to the Farne Islands.
Descending to a saddle the landscape may seem familiar there.
This is Sycamore Gap. It is featured in an early scene in Robin
Hood - Prince of Thieves. This is where Kevin Costner saves
a young boy from the dastardly Sheriff's men.
On the wall
This ancient wall was not built to keep the raiding Scots out
as commonly and incorrectly stated. The Scots were still in
their Irish homeland during Roman rule. It was in fact wild
Caledonian tribes who lived north of the wall. The wall was
built partly for defence and partly to restrict movement along
this wild northern frontier. The start point for this walk is Once
Brewed Visitor Centre where local information is available and
helpful advice from countryside rangers. Start the journey by
taking one of the regular buses eastwards to Housesteads
Roman Fort. These buses run frequently to communities along
the wall.
Follow the track for a short time. The route then skirts along
the western edge of the playing card-shaped fort to grid
reference NY 788 688. The old fort is well worth a look if you
have time and the entry fee. This walk has no navigation
problems. From the grid point simply turn left along the edge
of the escarpment. It is now a straightforward case of following
the wall from east to west. The wall here sits on the very edge
of the Whin Sill. This gives some really dramatic cliff edge
sections. Yes, the wild Caledonians would have found it really
difficult to cross such a well defended obstacle. I wonder what
OK, where’s Robin Hood?
Climbing steeply onto Steel Rig views to both sides of the wall
are far flung and stupendous. From here you descend to a gap
and head out onto a minor tarmac road. Follow that wee road
down to the B6318. Twice Brewed Inn sits a couple of hundred
yards west down that road. It offers refreshments and bar meals
and I can recommend dandelion and burdock. Your start point
is only a short distance from the inn. Now visit Vindolanda
Roman Fort if times allows.
Distance = 4 miles
Ascent = 800 feet
Dave McFadean
On the edge
Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011 • 13
✑
Letters to the Editor
Victorian Day
With regard to the Victorian Christmas event held in the village on
18th December 2010, I would firstly like to mention that the
‘Scrooge’ adaptation was a nice idea. The costumes and singing etc
were lovely.
I admire the fact that people are willing to take time out to
organise these events, but, this one left me disappointed.
Knowing it was going to be outside, from the leaflet pushed
through my letterbox, I assumed it would be behind the George
Hotel – in the garden area maybe. It never occurred to me that it
would be held in the middle of the road!
When I arrived to watch, I thought, “Well maybe there’s a
diversion in place or something.” Then traffic started to appear,
just two cars at first, then some more in ‘dribs and drabs’. The
drivers waited for some time until people were asked to make way
for access. Remember, not only did the drivers have to negotiate
snow and ice, there was also a 4x4 vehicle parked on the top of the
bridge and children running around. One member of the cast
seemed to begrudge moving at all! Maybe he wanted to be a real
ghost!
All of the above I suppose is tolerable, after all it was the last
weekend before Christmas. It’s just the looks of disgust that some
people were giving the drivers as they went past that I found
unacceptable.
I imagine some of those drivers would not have been driving at
all if they did not have a need to be somewhere. Even so, not
everyone can drop everything to suit the whims of others and why
should they?
Samantha Borrows, Moniaive
GLARE
Over the past seven or so yearswe have been working to bring
informed debate into the public arena about the issue of the siting
of renewable energy. Your support and encouragement have been
invaluable but now I’m afraid we must again ask for your support
in the case of the proposed 55 wind turbines for the ridge at
Blackcraig (which remains unresolved) and the hills around St
John’s Town of Dalry and Corsock all of which impinge on the
scenic amenity of New Galloway and the National Forest Park,
ALLISON & HUNTER
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14 • Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011
Loch Ken and even further south and Moniaive, Dunscore and
beyond. Responses, including objections, to the proposed Loch
Hill 11 x 300' turbines along the hills at Lochinvar, three miles
north of St John's Town of Dalry, must be received at the Council
Offices, Market St by February 10th. Please could you help us by:
stuffing envelopes; offering to collect signatures etc. - just
telephone 01644 420812 to volunteer or make a donation - no
matter how small - made payable to GLARE and sent to PO Box
7479, Castle Douglas DG7 WX. Please help us continue the job
we started way back in 2004!
Alison Chapman for the GLARE
Delzel/Dalziel
After googling many ideas, I have discovered your website in
reference to the Moniaive Gala.
My name is Margaret and I live in Sydney, Australia, and am
searching for descendants of my great grandfather’s parents. They
were given as James Delzel and Catharine on the marriage entry
for their son, James, in Victoria, Australia 1858. It was also stated
that James (jnr) was born in Thornhill, Dumfriesshire c 1834. Both
father and son had blacksmith as occupations.
The spelling changed many times with the records here in
Australia, finally settling on Dalziel. My grandmother was born
on Christmas Eve 1875 and named Emma Dalziel. A contact of
mine found a James Dalziel, aged 30, blacksmith, listed in Mill St,
Moniaive on the 1841 census.
James named his first son William, and his first daughter
Margaret Harkness Dalziel. I have found a birth for 1834 of a
James Dalziel to a William Dalziel (blacksmith) and Margaret
Harkness, and wondered if it was possible they took in the son of
a brother of William? I found a reference to the William Dalziel
and Margaret Harkness from the Dumfries and Galloway Standard
& Advertiser 7th June 1890. Deaths ‘On the 6th instant at Chapel
St, Moniaive, Margaret Harkness widow to William Dalziel,
blacksmith, Moniaive. Aged 91 years. AUSTRALIAN PAPERS
PLEASE COPY.’
Now that ‘Australian papers please copy’ made me really
wonder who they wanted to know of the death of Margaret
Harkness. Have also found the James, brother I believe to William
of above, b 26 Aug 1808, Glencairn. Died 23 June 1890 Southern
Counties Asylum Dumfries. If he fathered my James would
William the brother have passed the baby off as his and Margaret
Harkness' ? Apparently James (from the asylum) was there for
over 40 years, never married.
You can see I am getting desperate with my thoughts about this
elusive birth. What I am hoping to do, is find anyone by the name
of Delzel/Dalziel still in Moniaive who might be descendant from
this line. Would you by any chance know if there are people still
there now, named Dalziel or a variant of the spelling?
Margaret Trewick, email: [email protected]
Howat Electrical Contractors Ltd
Iain Howat
Whitedyke, Dunscore
Dumfries DG2 0SS
Tel: 01387 820330
Mobile: 07710 779994
COUNCILLOR GILL DYKES
Councillor Gill Dykes
You can contact me on 07736 255423
or email [email protected]
Representing the Mid & Upper Nithsdale ward
Winter Weather When I wrote my article for the December 2010
edition of the Gazette I mentioned a 'cold snap', an understatement
for sure. We have certainly experienced extreme conditions again
this year and a lot of people had their festive season disrupted not
only by bad weather conditions but also by lack of water.
I can sympathise with everybody who experienced a lack of
water over this time, I know from first hand experience the
difficulties caused by frozen water supplies. Indeed I had no water
from Christmas day until Friday 14th January and even now the
water pressure is still dodgy.
In my opinion Scottish Water need to put in place a better plan
to deal with this type of event - the difficulties faced by many
people who contacted the Scottish Water helpline was that the
personnel answering the calls did not seem to believe that there
was an issue with any pipes belonging to them. There was a
distinct lack of communication and I have made my feelings
known to Scottish Water that it is important that this type of error
does not happen again. Scottish Water need to learn from their
mistakes and put in place corrective action at their call centres. I
think it is fair to say that once they realised they had a major issue
they did do their best to try and help residents in the village but a
lot of work will still need to be done to get things back to normal.
If anybody was without water due to Scottish Water pipe work
then you can claim £25 per day from the time that you reported
your lack of supply until it was restored. Contact Scottish Water
helpline number on 0845 601 8855 and ask for a claim form.
Robert Burns We are now in full flow of Burns Supper time - lots
of haggis, neeps and tatties - It's just as well that I am a fan of both
Burns and haggis as I am speaking at a few suppers this year.
I was watching the news tonight and am amazed that a Burns
poem, which has never been published, has been discovered at
Floors Castle in the borders.
I was privileged to be speaking at a Burns Supper in Thornhill
a couple of weeks ago where one of the best 'Immortal Memory'
speeches I have ever heard was delivered by John Glover and he
received a well deserved standing ovation.
I will be taking part in the Wallace Hall Academy Burns
Supper this Friday, the speakers are all former pupils and anybody
who knows me from my school days will be amazed that I have
actually been asked to speak at the School... it just goes to show
that some people mature later than others! And if anybody is
interested in Burns I know the Church is hosting a Burns Supper
in the village on 25th February.
Party Time I can't believe where the years go, Hannah is 21 and I
don't feel old enough to have a daughter that age. Anyway, she
had a party in Edinburgh to celebrate her birthday. It was great
that she asked some of our older crowd to join in the celebrations
and it was nice to get the chance to catch up with friends that I
hadn't seen for years. Isn't it amazing that although you may not
have actually met up for years you can still pick up from where
you left of. The scary part of the night was that the walls were
decked with pictures of her childhood... my, how some people
have changed - not me, you understand, but Hannah certainly has
grown up and matured... some of the guests, who will remain
nameless, may have matured but certainly haven't grown up! It
was lovely to see all the youngsters making an effort to dress up
and some of those dresses... just amazing - to be young, to be
young.
Young Farmers I was asked to attend a panel night by Thornhill
Young Farmers this month and was amazed at the variety of
questions from the audience - everything from farming issues to
Elton John and his baby. The panel consisted of me; Stuart Park
and Donald Stewart we were treated to a very enjoyable and
informative evening and my thanks go to the committee.
Helpers Tea Party I was delighted to be invited to Moniaive
Primary School Helpers Tea Party where the guests were
entertained by poetry and song from the school children; it was
lovely, the children were superb and you could see how much it
meant not only to them but to the parents as well as the teachers
and guests. We were very well looked after and served lots of
Christmas goodies... the mince pies were my favourite - thank you
all very much, I had a really enjoyable time.
Finally Now that the ice seems to have disappeared the potholes
are appearing thick and fast. I continue to report anything that is
brought to my attention from all constituents, so if you have any
issues then please feel free to give me a ring or let your
community council know as they usually contact me with any
problems.
ALLISON &
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Fax 01848 330378
126 Drumlanrig Street,
Thornhill DG3 5LP
Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011 • 15
LOCAL HISTORY
The Wet Review
‘No.
4
COMPANY
(UPPER
NITHSDALE) RIFLE VOLUNTEERS
– The annual competition by this corps
for the silver cup generously presented
by their worthy Captain, Mr J. G.
Clark of Speddoch, took place at the
range at Peelton of Glencairn, on the
6th curt’....
This account of a rifle shooting
competition appeared in a local
newspaper on 21 May 1862. It went on to
describe the various distances at which 5
shots were fired, and who got the most
points. The report concluded that,
‘Captain Clark liberally supplied all
present with ample refreshments
throughout the day.’
The Dumfriesshire Rifle Volunteers
had been formed as part of a nationwide
movement to recruit a volunteer force for
home defence in response to sabre rattling
by certain elements in France in the
middle of the 19th century. The 1st
Dumfries Company was formed on
February 28th and the 4th Penpont
Company on February 29th 1860.
The 4th Dumfriesshire (Penpont)
Company mustered two officers, R.
Kennedy lieut., and George Dalziel
ensign, for the Volunteer Review in
Edinburgh on 7th August 1860. They
were accompanied by five sergeants, two
corporals and 53 men. Their names are
recorded but with no address it is not
known whether they came from Penpont,
Tynron or perhaps Glencairn. Adam
Brown (Bennan) and James Hewetson
(Auchenbainzie) were among some
20,000 Volunteers who paraded at
Holyrood for inspection by H.M. Queen
Victoria. Twenty-one years later, on 25th
August 1881, the number was near
40,000, watched from Salisbury crags by
nearly half a million spectators.
For the Dumfriesshire contingent the
day began early. The scattered
detachments had to be at their nearest
railway station – Sanquhar by 2.25am;
Thornhill 2.45am; Dumfries 3.20am etc.
for the special trains to take them to
Edinburgh. The men were supplied with
refreshments once they reached The
Meadows, before marching to Queen’s
Park.
Her Majesty drove past the brigades as
they saluted in turn and arrived at the
saluting base when the whole parade
presented arms in a Royal salute. The
Review was designed to be a magnificent
spectacle but was destined to be a
disappointment as it rained heavily from
mid-day onwards.
Every battalion then marched past
Queen Victoria in step to the tunes of
regimental bands. The 3rd Brigade of the
2nd Division was commanded by Colonel
Walker of Crawfordton who had taken the
Dumfriesshire Volunteers to Holyrood in
1860. The 1st Dumfriesshire Volunteers
were in the 1st Brigade of the 3rd
Division and by the time they marched
past, one commentator wrote that, ‘the
rain had waxed positively vicious and the
ground was a perfect bog. It would
therefore be an injustice to criticise its
performance closely... The Dumfriesshire
men marched well and steadily, and their
dressing was pretty correct; indeed, so
much did their appearance impress his
Royal Highness the Commander-in-Chief
that he was heard to remark as they
passed, “Very well done, Volunteers.” The
distance between the companies,
however, might have been improved.’
The Thornhill and Penpont companies
16 • Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011
totalled 6 Officers and 117 Rank and File.
E Company (Penpont) was led by Captain
George Dalziel, Lieutenant Stephen
Brown and Lieutenant Thomas Logan.
Among the 23 members of the
Battalion who had paraded at the previous
review in 1860, two were from Penpont –
George Dalziel, then an ensign, and
Private R. Currie.
‘The march-past began at 4.15 and
ended at 5.30. Not withstanding all the
wet, the Volunteers displayed the utmost
cheerfulness and marched off the ground
with a steady, springy step and a cheerful
air... We have not heard of any serious
results from the protracted exposure to the
elements.’ The brigades were provided
with refreshments before beginning the
tedious journey home.
Major General Alastair Macdonald
sent a telegram to the commanding officer
of 1st D.R.V.; ‘Her Majesty desires me to
express her congratulations and great
satisfaction with the bearing and conduct
of your men, and wishes to be informed as
to their safe return. Report any casualties
among Dumfries Volunteers returning
from the Review, their general condition
and anything of importance relating to
their return. Wire answer promptly.’
A General Order was issued by H.R.H.
the Duke of Cambridge Field-Marshal
Commanding-in-Chief who had ‘been
commanded by the Queen to express to
the Volunteers of all ranks her entire
satisfaction with the appearance of the
troops assembled’.
Brynovsky CD launch
A.B. Hall
Note:
The illustration shows a 9” wall plate
depicting Edinburgh Castle with a body
of troops in the foreground. A paper note
pasted on the reverse reads:
‘WET REVIEW 1881 approx. Ordered
by Queen Victoria ? Pouring wet day.
Over 200 soldiers died from pneumonia
after.’
Is this true or false?
Sources:
A Narrative of the Royal Scottish
Volunteer Review in Holyrood Park 7
August 1860; Ernest Ralph Vernon 1860.
Records of the Scottish Volunteer
Force 1859-1908; Lt: General Sir James
Moncrieff Grierson 1909.
Dumfries and Galloway Standard.
Dumfries and Galloway Courier.
Note: Many thanks to the staff at the
Ewart Library, Archive Centre and
Dumfries Museum for their help.
On TV
It was good to see Lothlorien, the
antique and collectables shop in
Moffat, owned by Derek, son of Jack
and Pearl on television this week.
It starred in Antique Road Trip and a
small purchase was made by one of the
presenters who later sold it, for a profit, in
an auction sale.
The shop is well worth a visit.
Saturday 23rd January saw the
Institute transformed into a Reggae
venue when Brynovsky took it over to
launch their debut CD.
The place was packed with people of
all ages out to enjoy a night of live music,
DJs and dancing.
Tim Brynovsky has been writing and
performing music since childhood. He
played his first gig on lead guitar and
harmonica for a blues band. That same
year he went to see the Rolling Stones at
Wembley Stadium. On came Black
Uhuru, in the midst of the ‘Red’ tour,
who, according to Brynovsky, “...blew
the Stones off the stage...” This day was a
big turning point and the start of a
lifelong passion for Jamaican music.
In the late 80’s and early 90’s he toured
and recorded with punk and reggae
bands. Tim began experimental
recordings in 1989. In the mid-90’s, he
moved away from the band scene and
started making recordings on an Atari
computer and an 8-track. Over the years
he has worked as a roadie, a technician, a
college lecturer, a designer and a
composer for short films. He started work
on a series of tracks for an album in 2008.
The following summer he released some
of these tunes via the internet and began
to make connections with musicians,
singers and lyricists. One of his tracks,
ALEX FERGUSSON MSP
FOR GALLOWAY AND UPPER NITHSDALE
Holds regular advice surgeries in his office at
132 DRUMLANRIG STREET,
THORNHILL
on the first Friday of every month.
Please telephone free on 0800 028 7260 for an appointment or to make any
alternative arrangement.
You can visit Alex's website at www.alexfergusson.org.uk
Or contact him by email [email protected]
now the album opener, ‘Trip
to You’, was used as the
theme music for the Sunny
Govan Radio Reggae Show.
Just as the debut Brynovsky
album
was
nearing
completion in the summer of
2010, he met a young
drummer and dub producer.
Anders and Tim played an
impromptu improvised set at a tiny
Summer Solstice festival in the Galloway
countryside. Within a couple of weeks,
Anders had called on three of his friends
and a band was formed and were invited
to play at the Eden Festival, Moffat in
September 2010. By this time, Air Street
Records had stepped forward to release
the debut instrumental solo album from
Brynovsky, Hard Curves.
The five piece band consists of Anders
on drums, Chungerbie on bass, Adam on
dub effects aand keyboards, Luke on
keyboards and Brynovsky on guitar and
melodica.
An excellent night of music and
dancing.
For more information go to
www.brynovsky.co.uk
Above: The audience dance to the sounds
of Brynovsky at the launch of the debut
CD
MPL Plastering
• Reliable
• Reasonable rates
• No job too small or too
large
Contact Mark on
01848 200017
or 07526441432
Kilneiss Cottage, Ayr St,
Moniaive
Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011 • 17
MINISTER’S MUSINGS
Plans for 2011 - What is happening?
Internationally
Excitement is increasing now as the youth group SLYC step
up their fund raising and preparations for a trip to Zambia.
They will work alongside local young folk to make a
difference to the community of Lubuto, and by getting
involved will have a huge life experience. Being involved
personally always brings us the chance to grow, and to
change. Our friends there are also preparing to welcome the
group, and look after them. Their excitement is way off the
scale!
Full circle!
And the Christian point of all this? Well, there really doesn't
have to be a particular Christian point! However... the
Christian faith is intended to be an activity – for all. 'Armchair
Christians' who do not get personally involved may be great
critics, but the critics to whom we will listen most intently
are those who are involved. And to be involved you don't
necessarily have to physically get out of your armchair - but
you do have to have a live and active faith.
2011 – get involved. Make the effort in whatever sport,
interest, activity, faith, or pasttime that appeals. And don't let
life and the world pass you by.
Nationally
Mention The General Assembly of The Church of Scotland
and many will be asleep before you have even reached the
fourth word! This year may be different as the question of
ordaining homosexuals into ministry is debated (again!). I
suppose at least the newspapers will remain interested in the
Assembly until that debate – then they can all run riot with
attention grabbing headlines! But there is to be a ‘party’ in
Princes Street Gardens on Sunday 22nd May – an upbeat,
busy, loud and fun celebration of the church. I wonder if that
will get a mention anywhere in the small print.
And for 2011:
I'm going to be free
And I'm going to be brave
I'm going to live each day as if it were my last
Fantastically, courageously, with grace
And in the dark of the night (and it does get dark)
...When I call a name
It will be your name (what's your name? Never mind...)
Let's go! Everywhere! Even though we're scared...
Coz it's life and it's happening: really, really, happening
Right now...
Locally
This depends on folk willing to spend time organising and
planning. It depends on people giving of their time to offer
events. And it depends on folk becoming involved even just to
the point of coming along, turning up. Maybe there will be
something you are already really interested in and wouldn't
miss. But there may also be new things happening, new ideas
to you. Well, you will never know if you like reggae music till
you try; you will never know if you can manage to salsa
unless you give it a shot; you might actually enjoy a talk or a
discussion, you might be pleasantly surprised to discover that
social events are really quite good fun (and on most nights
beat hands down the programmes on telly - and anyway most
can be recorded and viewed later!). And you might, in coming
along, be supporting a fund raising event that will help our
young folk get involved internationally.
– 'You, Me and Everyone We Know'
Christine
To advertise in the Gazette
call 01848 200331
Andrew can be
contacted on
01387820233 or
07736541676 or
by email at
Andrew.wood@
dumgal.gov.uk
An apple a day...
Surgery Opening Hours
SURGERIES
Kirkgate, Dunscore 01387 820266
Dunscore
Moniaive
Dumfries
Rosevale, Chapel St, Moniaive
01848 200244
Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri
9.00 – 10.15am
3.45 – 5.45pm
9.00 – 10.15am
4.45 – 5.45pm
11.00 – 1.00pm
7 Buccleuch St, Dumfries 01387 262012
Thursday
9.00 – 10.15am
3.45 – 5.45pm
CLOSED
9.00 – 10.15am
Closed from 1pm
CLOSED
11.00 – 1.00pm
Saturday/Sunday
CLOSED
EMERGENCY CALL ARRANGEMENTS 01387 820266
There is a leaflet available detailing all services. Please ask for one at the surgery.
18 • Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011
CLINICS • Asthma • Diabetic • Wart • Well
Woman • Mother & Baby • Healthy
Lifestyle • Minor Surgery. Held at all
surgeries. All doctors qualified to provide
a full range of services i.e. Maternity
Medical Services, Contraceptive,
Child Health Surveillance & Minor Surgery
* COMPETITIONS * PRIZES * CROSSWORD *
£5 PRIZE CROSSWORD
Caption Competition No 52
Sponsored by Michael Forteath,
Painter & Decorator 01848 200462
1
3
2
6
7
14
15
9
10
12
11
13
17
16
“ Who took the taps and where’s the plug hole?”
Can you come up with a
funnier caption? If so,
please leave it in the
‘Gazette’
box
in
Watson’s Stores by
March 20th. The prize
is a box of chocolates
which can be selected
from the shop.
Photo: Sue Grant
8
5
4
Sponsored by C Braid of The Green Tea House
18
20
19
23
22
24
25
Caption Competition No 51
winner
No entries so no winner.
26
Across
1. Useful remote control
button!(4)
3. Erratic and weak power
producer (8)
8. 1ac bird (4)
9. Gild lawn in Highlands(8)
11. Ashes container (3)
12. Watched TV (6)
16. Cold Artic plain (6)
17. Layers (6)
19. St. Augustine’s mother (6)
20. Don’t get all __ up (Scot) (3)
23. Bright Cheshire port (8)
25. Hay wagon (4)
26. Clot in blood vessel (8)
27. Draw attention quietly (4)
27
Down
1. Wartime fighter plane (8)
2. Practical education (8)
4. In the same place (L) (6)
5. Follow constantly (3)
6. Was Persia (4)
7. Calm down (4)
10. Cook too much (6)
13. Minor actors (6)
14. Follow them in the country
(8)
15. One of a clicking pair (8)
18. 1689, Bill of ____ (6)
21. Existence (L) (4)
22. Rebuff (4)
24. Bad (3)
Issue 67 Answers.
Across: 1.Superb; 4. Abetting; 9. Pizzas; 10. Elicited; 12. Imitates;
13.Tissue; 15. Gnat; 16. Dedication; 19. Stonehenge; 20. Blue; 22.
Upbeat; 25. Drops out; 27. Foxglove; 28. Summer; 29. El Dorado;
30. Fennel.
Down: 1. Supping; 2. Pizzicato; 3. Reagan; 5. Bell; 6. Tactical; 7.
Iotas; 8. Gudgeon; 11. Deleted; 14. Ringers; 17. Isle of Man; 18.
Retailer; 21. Estoril; 22. Spruce; 24. Boxed; 26. Ovid.
Winner: Mrs Saltmarsh. Congratulations please collect your prize
from the shop.
Please leave your entry in the Gazette Box in Watson’s Grocers
by 20th March. Answers next issue.
Competition: Where in Moniaive?
Sponsored by Craigdarroch Arms Hotel
01848 200205
Your chance to win a £25
voucher towards a meal for two
at the Craigdarroch Arms Hotel.
Where in Moniaive is shown in
the photograph? If you know then
leave your answer and your name
and telephone number in the
Gazette box in Watson’s Stores by
March 20th. The Craigdarroch
Arms Hotel will select the winner
and forward your prize to you.
Last issue ‘In the Craigdrroch
Arms courtyard’ No winner this
time.
£5 Competition
Where’s McAlien?
Sponsored by George Leech, Joiner,
01848 200611
In December/January McAlien (pictured here) was
still resident in the window of Causie’s Cross B&B
as we forgot to move him!.
But where will he be resident during February and March? In
another window? On a shop shelf? Who knows? When you spot
him leave his location and your name and address in the Gazette
box. The first correct answer chosen at random will receive £5.
Thanks to George Leech for sponsoring this competition.
Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011 • 19
Photo: Sue Grant
21
GLENCAIRN & TYNRON DIARY DATES
FEBRUARY
Thursday 3rd Glencairn History Group. Talk
- Heritage of drystane dyking. 7.30pm
Memorial Institute. All welcome. Bob Martin
07772 877443.
Sunday 6th Service 11.45am St Ninian’s.
Friday 11th - Monday 14th Valentine meal
specials Three Glens Resaurant.
Saturday 12th Lunches St Ninian’s.
Sunday 13th Service 11.45am St Ninian’s.
Tuesday 15th Sustainable Moniaive
meeting 7.30 Craigdarroch Arms. John
Wheeler 01848 200478.
Wednesday 23rd Craigdarroch Fishing
Club meeting. Brian Thompson 01848
200467.
Wednesday 23rd Concert FUNI, Bara
Grimsdottir and Chris Foster. A concert of
captivating Icelandic music and song with
stunning slide show. Masonic Hall 7.30pm.
Tickets £6/£3 contact Wendy Stewart
01387 820241.
Sunday 20th Family Service 11.45am St
Ninian’s.
Sunday 13th Service 11.45am St Ninian’s.
Sunday 27th Gala Duck Race Ducks
launched 2pm. Prize giving, soup and teas in
Institute after event. Tickets £1 available now.
Sue 200331.
Sunday 27th Service 11.45am Glencairn.
Monday 28th Deadline for windfarm fund
applications.
MARCH
Thursday 3rd AGM Glencairn History Group.
7.30pm Memorial Institute. All welcome. Bob
Martin 07772 877443.
Sunday 6th Service 11.45am St Ninian’s.
Saturday 12th Lunches St Ninian’s.
Sunday 13th Service 11.45am St Ninian’s.
Sunday 20th Family Service 11.45am St
Ninian’s.
Monday 21st Windfarm Fund allocation
meeting 7.30pm George Hotel.
Tuesday 22nd Body Shop Party 7-9pm
Imemorial Institute. Raising funds for the
Guides.
Sunday 27th Communion Services 11.45am
Glencairn.and 6pm St Ninian’s
MONIAIVE REGULAR EVENTS
Cairn Chorus Thursdays 7.30pm St Ninian’s
from February 24th.
Nuts Poker League Craigdarroch Arms
Hotel 7.30pm. Thursdays. Beginners
welcome. Refreshments at half time. Rab
01848 200205.
Theme Nights at Craigdarroch Arms Hotel
Wednesday nights. Rab 01848 200205.
Pasta/Pizza Nights at Three Glens
Restaurant, Thursdays. 01848 200057.
Kilnhouse Carpet Bowling Club Meets
Monday nights October to April 7.30pm10pm. Scott McMillan 01848 200568.
Health Walk Meet every Thursday at 2pm,
Memorial Institute and afterwards for a
cuppa. Free. Duncan Saunderson 01848
200327 or Max McKenzie 01848 200068 for
details.
Darts Craigdarroch Arms, Moniaive. Rab
01848 200205.
Fishing Club Lottery every Monday at
9pm. Tickets available at George Hotel or
from Fishing Club members. Brian 01848
200467.
Carpet Bowls Tuesday evenings George
Hotel, Moniaive. Robin 01848 200203.
Pool Competition Thursday evenings George
Hotel, Moniaive. Robin 01848 200203.
Book Reading Club Third Thursday of
month, Craigview, 7.30pm.
Anne
Mackintosh 01387 820265.
Yoga Wednesdays 7.30pm, Memorial
Institute. Carol Godridge 01848 200681.
Bells of St Ninian’s Handbell Ringing
Mondays meet 7.30pm in St Ninian’s Nan Tait
01848 200403.
Quiz Every Sunday 5-6pm The George Hotel.
£1 per head – winner takes all!
Easy-obics Thursdays Institute 11am-12pm.
Glencairn Community Council First Monday
of month, Memorial Institute 7.30pm. All
welcome. Robin McIver 01848 200412.
Glencairn History Group First Thursday of
month, Memorial Institute 7.30pm. Bob
Martin 0777 2877443.
Glencairn Memorial Institute Committee
Fourth Thursday of month in Institute. All
welcome. Duncan Saunderson 01818
200327.
Evergreen Club Meets Tuesdays 1.30pm
Paterson Rooms, North Street. Community
bus collects. New members very welcome.
Delitia Knowles 01848 200314 or Mabel
Forteath 200676.
Moniaive SWRI Every third Wednesday
7.30pm, St Ninian’s. Linda Stott 01848
200325.
Brownies Memorial Institute, every Tues of
term. 6-7pm. Tina Thomson 01848 200323
or Karen Malone 01848 200604.
Guides Guider Cathie Harley 01848 200362.
Episcopal Service Fourth Sunday of every
month 9.30am Maxwelton Chapel. Tony
Freeman 01848 200150.
Rock Solid Fridays (term-time) Church run
Club for 11-14 year olds. Glenriddell Hall,
Dunscore 7.30-9pm. Christine Sime 01387
820245.
Toy Library St Ninian’s Thursdays 1.30 3pm.
JaM (‘Jesus and Me’ Kids’ club) every
Sunday (except school holidays) Redpath
Cottage, North Street 10am. Children from 3
years up welcome. Third Sunday of the
month is a family service at St. Ninian's.
Contact Anja Lyttle 01848 200272.
Skitter Lane Youth Club for 14-18 year-olds
every Monday (term-time). Bus from
Moniaive at 6:50pm, back at 10pm. Dean
Goddard 01848 200322 or Rona Gunnell
01387 740326.
2 • Glencairn Gazette 68 • February/March 2011
TYNRON REGULAR EVENTS
Weekly Walks Eunice Laidlaw on 01848
200343.
Tynron Carpet Bowling Club Thursdays
7.30pm. Tynron Hall. Frank Irvine 01848
200355.
Tynron Community Council Last Monday,
odd months. George Freeborn on 01848
200439.
Tynron SWRI 1st Monday of the month.
Madge Rorison on 01848 200305.
Ceilidh Dancing Classes Every Tuesday 8.00
- 10.00 pm. £3. Mary Newbold on 01848
200379.
BOOKING CONTACTS
Cairn Valley Community Transport Charlie
McAllan on 01387 820877.
Glencairn Memorial Institute Elaine Wilson
01848 200727.
Tynron Hall Phil Armstrong 01848 200225
or 07967049792.
Wallaceton Hall Wendy Stewart 01848
820241.
Masonic Hall, Moniaive John Cowdery
01848 200441.
Sunday 27th February
Gala Duck Race
Ducks launched 2pm from the
garages in Ayr Street.
Prize giving, soup and teas in Institute
after event.
Tickets £1 available now.
• 1st prize £150 • 2nd prize £100
• 3rd prize £50 • and a booby prize for
the last duck home.
WANTED
Computer wanted for general use and internet.
Must be in good working order. Call 01848
200155.
DISTRIBUTION
For distribution queries or to be added to mailing
list please call Lynda or Perry on 01848
200026.
EDITORIAL CONTACTS/ADVERTISING
We depend on you for news to fill the Gazette.
Please help by supplying diary dates,
advertisements, articles, photographs and
letters. These can be placed in the Gazette Box
found in Watson’s Grocers or emailed to Sue.
• Sue Grant, Glenluiart, Moniaive 01848
200331 [email protected]
• Sandy Hall, Craiglearan, Moniaive
01848 200292.
DEADLINE FOR APRIL/MAY ISSUE IS 20TH MARCH.
Layout and editing: Sue Grant.
The views expressed in this newsletter do not
necessarily reflect the opinions of the editorial team.
The group reserves the right to encourage the
expression of a variety of views on subjects of
interest to the local community.