2018 SEPTEMBER Bridge

September 2018
The Bridge
£1
The Community Newspaper for Doune & Deanston
Pipers on Parade
On 26 July, the streets of Doune rang to the skirl of the pipes and drums. The
Silver Thistle Pipe Band from Maldegem in Belgium had arrived and the first
thing they did on climbing out of their minibuses, was to unpack their pipes and
drums and start playing. How come ...?
(... continued on p5)
Doune Pipe Band and the Belgian Silver Thistle Pipe Band relax between performances at Stirling Castle
1

Police Report
Between 21/06 and 24/06/18 in Moray
Street, Doune, vandalism occurred when
black paint was sprayed onto a disabled
parking sign.
On 11/07/18 at James Smith Road,
Deanston, two males set fire to a garden
hedge. On being challenged they threatened the occupier
of the property. They were seen walking to Teith Road,
Deanston. The males were mid 40-50s, stocky build, both
with shaved heads.
Theft
Overnight between 11/07 and 12/07/18 a number of minor
thefts occurred in Deanston. A male has been identified
by police regarding this and he is being reported to the
Procurator Fiscal.
On 19/07/18 a distraction fraud occurred at the Post Office,
Balkerach Street, Doune during which an amount of cash
was taken. Both males involved appeared to be of Asian
origin. MALE 1 - late 20s, 5’8”, medium build, round face
with sideburns and slight beard, MALE 2 - early 20s, 5’5”,
slim build, defined cheekbones, short black hair.
Scam emails
An elderly resident in Callander has been scammed by email
of a substantial amount of money. This has been ongoing
with this person for a period of two years. On this occasion
the email received suggested that the victim had a fictitious
preloaded ATM card with a substantial amount of money
in it in his name and to release this money the victim was
required to send a sum of money from his bank account via
MoneyGram to a male in Nigeria. The requests for money
continued as the victim continued to respond to the emails.
This crime is now being investigated by Police.
As previously reported we would ask that friends, relatives
and neighbours be pro-active in discussing and discouraging
vulnerable people from engaging in any such activity
without checking first with a trusted person as scam emails
are becoming a more common criminal activity. Online
safety advice can be found on www.ncsc.gov.uk or www.
getsafeonline.org. If anyone has questions on this subject
please contact PC Mckerracher or PC Deans.
Community Engagement and Reassurance
We will be in the Information Centre, 61-63 Balkerach
Street, Doune between 2-3pm on the following dates. 24
September; 22 October; 19 November; 17 December.
This is an opportunity for locals to come and speak with us
and for us to provide information on subjects such as Rural
Crime, Doorstep Crime and Road Safety.
Community Officers: PC Deans and PC Mckerracher
Tel: Callander Police Office on 101
or TrossachsTeithCPT@scotland.pnn.police.uk
email:TrossachsTeithCPT@scotland.pnn.police.uk
Parking the Problem
Traffic on Main Street and parking or, rather, the lack of it throughout the village has been identified as the chief local concern
for Doune residents. During a recent street surgery conducted by local MP Stephen Kerr and Councillor Martin Earl, helped by
a team of volunteers, over 130 householders raised issues including provision for new entrants at Doune Primary School, the
gritting of the roads during winter, and the quality of the local roads.
However, the issues raised most often were traffic conditions and parking in the town centre. Cllr Martin Earl told The Bridge:
“There has been work carried out with community groups to identify potential improvements to the parking problem and
those initiatives need to be progressed by the Council as quickly as possible. Even a few more spaces would help.” Progress,
he added, had been slowed by staffing conditions at the Council. However: “I have sent an inquiry to the Traffic Management
team as I believe recruitment for new officers is complete and we should be able to pick this up and progress. For example
there are two spaces in Castlehill that are not being used due to overgrown vegetation”.
Stephen Kerr said: “I have written to Stirling Council’s Chief Executive, outlining the concerns and the number of people who
raised them. My office, alongside Cllr Earl, will pursue appropriate action being taken by the Council to address each of them.”
Juliet McCracken
2

Highest Academic Accolade for Lynn Abrams
Argaty resident Professor Lynn Abrams is one of three leading academics from the
University of Glasgow to have achieved the very rare distinction of being elected a
Fellow of the British Academy.
Fellows of the British Academy are leading minds in their
academic fields and represent the very best of humanities
and social sciences research, in the UK and globally.
Current Fellows include the classicist Dame Mary Beard,
the historian Sir Simon Schama and philosopher Baroness
Onora O’Neill, while previous Fellows include Sir Winston
Churchill, C.S Lewis, Seamus Heaney and Beatrice Webb.
Lynn, who now takes her place among 76 world-leading
academics to have been elected from universities across the
UK and around the world, is the University of Glasgow’s
Professor of Modern History and Head of the School of
Humanities. In congratulating the university’s three new
Fellows, Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli, Principal and
Vice-Chancellor at the University of Glasgow, said: “It is
the highest academic accolade for those working in the field
of humanities and social sciences research. Their election
as Fellows is testament to their outstanding scholarship and
research.”
Professor Abrams’ research interests are in the history
of women and gender relations, the social and cultural
history of modern Britain as well as oral history theory
and methodology. She has published widely in the field of
modern European women’s and gender history on topics
including marriage and the family, post-war womanhood,
autonomy and the self, Scottish masculinities, the history
of child welfare, everyday life, the home, and memory. She
has led projects on Scottish knitted textiles, the gendering
of Scottish history and the history of post-war housing in
Glasgow.
Professor Abrams said: “Being elected as a Fellow by
one’s peers is a huge accolade and acknowledgment of
the central place of women’s and gender history within
historical scholarship. My own professional practice has
been characterised by collaboration, both within and outwith
academia, and I have been supported throughout my career
by a network of colleagues committed to research with a
social and feminist agenda, not least here at the University of
Glasgow.”
University of Glasgow News
20 July 2018
Iyengar
YOGA
Deanston Primary School
7.30pm - 9.00pm
KEEP FIT!
(with our qualified instructor, Diane)
at the RURAL HALL, DOUNE
on Mondays 7-8pm
cost £5 (pay as you go)
The class suits adults of all ages and abilities
and is a combination of simple aerobics
to improve cardio fitness together with toning
and strength exercises to work those muscles.
So come along, enjoy the music, have a laugh and
Keep Fit at the same time!
Teacher: Diane Edward
Cost: £5 (£4 concessions)
This class is suitable for beginners
Please bring a mat, blocks, bricks and a blanket.
There is limited equipment available to borrow.
Sorry, class not suitable for pregnant women.
COMMUNITY ACTION FOR DEANSTON
www.facebook.com/DeanstonYogaClass
(for more information contact Mary on 842239)
3

Research from consumer group Which? says branches are
now closing at a rate of almost 60 per month, while a report
in June from banking and financial services analysts DJB
Research suggested as many as 2,400 are at risk of closure.
Yet not living near a bank branch doesn’t necessarily mean
you can’t use banking services in-person. You can do most of
your day-to-day banking at the Post Office for free.
What can you do at the Post Office?
If you can get to a Post Office, you can:
• Withdraw cash from your usual bank account using your
card
• Pay cash into your usual bank account using a card or
paying-in slip
• Check your bank balance using your card
• Deposit a cheque using a paying-in slip (excluding
Nationwide)
These banking services are available for free to customers
of 28 banks, including all the high street big names such as
HSBC, Barclays and NatWest. Because there are separate
contracts with each of the banks, check with your local
branch how it works with your bank; the Post Office says
it’s able to serve 99% of UK banking customers. The Post
Office also offers business banking services, including
withdrawals, deposits and change giving services.
Banking at the Post Office
It has become a familiar story - bank branches are rapidly disappearing from our high
streets, even the familiar cash machines are reducing in number and some customers
fear being cut off from in-person banking. But many don’t realise that the Post Office
can provide essential banking services for almost everyone with a UK bank account.
Is there anything you can’t do at the Post Office?
Customers of some banks, including the Bank of Scotland
and Halifax, won’t be able to deposit money at the post
office using a debit card and will need to bring a personalised
paying-in slip from their bank instead - so check the policy
for your bank first.
Some services offered by your bank which are NOT
available at the Post Office include:
• Opening new products
• Setting up standing orders
• Reporting a lost or stolen card
• Getting personalised advice
If you need to use these services and can’t access your
bank branch, check your bank’s online, telephone or postal
banking services.
Finding out your local bank branch is closing is hugely
frustrating for many people, but if that’s you, don’t fear the
worst. Nipping to your nearest Post Office counter will serve
most of your everyday banking needs. But beware; if you
don’t support and use your local Post Office branch, you
can say goodbye forever to local personalised banking in
addition to a huge range of other vital services provided
under one roof.
You’ll usually be able to use the listed services exactly
as if you were at your local bank branch. However when
depositing a cheque, note that the money will typically take
a day longer to arrive in your account than it would if you
deposited it at a bank branch.
Ken Russell
(with help from the Which? Online report by Naomi Schraer)
John McLeod Principal Contractors Ltd
Construction – Joinery Manufacturing – Maintenance
Office – Unit 4 Station Wynd Doune FK16 6EH
01786 842 619
• Architraves & Mouldings
• New Build Homes
• Stairs, Windows & Doors
• Commercial New Builds
• Garden Buildings
• Renovations & Extensions
• Building Works
• Bespoke Design &
Manufacture
• Electrical Services
• Project Management
• Plumbing Services
• Property Maintenance
Visit
www.johnmcleod.co.uk
info@johnmcleod.co.uk
4

Pipers on Parade ...contd. from front page
The Silver Thistle Pipe Band started life as the Red Lion
Pipe Band. In 1999, Diederik de Jaeger, its pipe major for
12 years, had stopped off in Doune on a motorbike trip to
Scotland. He stayed (of course) at the Red Lion Inn where
he met Davie McNeil and David Fisher, both members of the
Doune Pipe Band, which is sponsored by the Red Lion.
Diederik visited every year, meeting up with the two Davids
and playing with the Callander Pipes and the Doune Pipe
Band. In the course of time, the Belgian Pipe Band’s name
changed from ‘Red Lion’ to ‘Silver Thistle’.
As Bridge readers may remember, last year Diederik issued
an invitation to the Doune Pipe Band to visit Belgium and
play The Last Post at the Menin Gate to commemorate
the Battle of Ypres. In return, Doune Pipe Band members
extended an invitation to the Silver Thistles to visit Doune
the following year. A date was set for the end of July to
coincide with the Belgian holiday season and the band duly
arrived in Doune to a diary packed with events.
Friday 27 July was a particularly eventful day when the
visitors played at Dunblane Cathedral, the David Stirling
Memorial and Deanston Distillery. Their reward for playing
here was a tour of the Distillery and a tasting session, which
was much appreciated.
On the Saturday both pipe bands played in the courtyard of
Doune Castle and, in the afternoon, in the garden of Stirling
Castle. Their music was applauded by tourists at both venues.
The tour culminated in Callander on the Sunday, when both
pipe bands were joined by the Callander and District Pipe
Band and McLaren High School Pipe Band. The sound of
the combined pipes and drums was quite overwhelming. In
the afternoon, they paraded through Doune to a reception
hosted by the KCC in the Rural Hall. Jimmie Innes, chair of
the KCC, thanked the Silver Thistles for their visit to Doune.
To celebrate the importance of the occasion, Jimmie wore
the Provost’s chain to welcome them. This was the first time
it has been worn since 1975, the year Doune ceased to be a
Burgh. The day ended with a barbecue at the Red Lion.
Diederik stated that the entire visit had been a highlight in
the life of the band. Davie McNeill reiterated the sentiment,
saying that that he couldn’t single out one event: the whole
weekend had been a wonderful experience. I’m sure the
people of Doune who witnessed it felt the same.
Annette Oliver
The Silver Thistle pipers take a break during their visit to Callander
Second-hand Books Fly off the Shelves
A large area of shelving in the ‘new’ Information Centre premises in Doune has rejuvenated the sale of second-hand books
and heartfelt thanks go to all the kind donors, near and far, who have brought in contributions. Please keep them coming –
especially poetry books which fly off the shelves. Results in the first few months have been both steady and an encouragement
to continue. So please come in and browse: and not only the old books; there are new ones too as well as lots of other lovely
goodies. Keep using the Library too!
Pat Herbert
5

Drop In Flu clinics for Adults will be held in Doune Health
Centre for patients who are aged 65 years and over or who are
in an ‘at risk’ group. It is also available to pregnant women
and carers. This invitation does not apply to child nasal flu
vaccinations. The clinics will be held between 1.30pm and
4pm on the following Thursday afternoons:
4 October; 11 October; 18 October; 25 October;
1 November.
There is no need to book an appointment. Drop in on any of
the dates listed above. We will make separate appointments
for those who cannot manage to come along on the selected
dates.
Please wear a short-sleeved top so that your arm is easily
accessible for vaccination. Do not attend if you are suffering
from a fever/ high temperature. This clinic is for flu
vaccinations only; please do not expect to have any other
problems dealt with at the same time.
Thornhill drop in flu clinic will be held at the tea and chat
morning in the Community Hall on Wednesday 31 October
between 10 am - noon.
If you would like a flu injection but are not eligible then you
can obtain one privately at the Woodside Pharmacy or other
local pharmacies.
Ferrier Family Fundraising
As usual the Ferriers are raising money for the Cardiomyopathy Association; they have two events planned.
On 29 September at 11am there will be a Stroll and Scavenger Hunt at Doune Ponds. This event will involve a visual
treasure hunt, together with an old-fashioned picnic and is suitable for families with young children. Entry by donation.
Neil’s Five Nations will be on 13 October in the Rural Hall. Neil Ferrier will give a slideshow of all his treks and at the same
time tea and heart shaped biscuits will be served. Entry will be £3. All welcome from 10.30am.
We hope you can come along to at least one of these events.
Annual Flu Vaccinations
Children’s Nasal Flu Vaccinations will be continuing this
year for ALL pre-school children who are aged two to five
years. To be eligible children must have reached the age
of two years by 1 September 2018. This also includes any
child over six months in an ‘at risk’ group. Children in ‘at
risk’ groups aged from six months to two years will receive
a traditional flu injection. Children should not attend if they
have a fever.
Please make an appointment for a nasal flu vaccination. The
pre-school group are not invited to the Drop In Adult Clinics
due to the high numbers expected and staff availability.
Primary school children will be invited to receive their nasal
flu vaccination at school during the day from the school
nurses.
Health Centre Closure
The surgery will be closed all day on Monday 15 October.
Please remember to order your prescriptions before the
holiday weekend. NHS 24 will be dealing with emergencies.
Tel 111 if you are unwell or need to talk to someone before
the clinic reopens.
Linda Keay
Doune Health Centre
Morag Ferrier
6

Sermons in Stones
Three generations of Inneses, Doune’s long-established
family of stonemasons, were present on 5 July for the
unveiling, at the Smith Art Gallery and Museum in Stirling,
of two sculptures by Adam Innes, replicas of the work of
local architect John Allan. Representatives of the Mormon
Church, which had funded the
£19,000 project, were out in
force, led by the guest of honour,
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, a
Member of the Quorum of the
Twelve Apostles of the Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day
Saints. Stirling Provost Christine
Simpson, and local MP Stephen
Kerr were among the speakers at
the event.
As described in the June
edition of The Bridge, Adam’s
two limestone plaques, now
permanently installed at the
Smith, are copies of a pair which
used to decorated the façade
of Albany Crescent in Stirling.
Built in 1896 to a design by
John Allan, Albany Crescent
was demolished in 1965 but the plaques lived on, largely due
to the motto inscribed on one of them. The words: “Whate’er
thou art, act well thy part” inspired a homesick young
Mormon missionary David O McKay, who was later to
become ninth President of the organisation, to such an extent
that they have become, as one speaker put it: “a part of the
Mormon church’s world story”. Allan’s original ‘symbol
stone’, bearing the motto, is now in Salt Lake City
According to stone restorer Mandy Watson, a member of the
Mormon Church in Alloa, the second plaque (left), depicting
a lion with a battle axe, recalls
the execution in 1495 of the
Duke of Albany, builder of
Doune Castle, by James I of
Scotland.
Adam’s commission, to make
replicas of the two stones,
originated as the brainchild of
Smith Director Elspeth King,
who felt that Stirling should
commemorate the work of
local architect John Allan who,
at the turn of the last century,
built several large villas in the
Kings Park area, also the Wolf
Craig building on Port Street
and, incidentally, 56 Main
Street in Doune. That the idea
became reality was thanks to
the generosity of the Mormon
Church whose local members, having listened to Elspeth,
persuaded their Church History Department in Salt Lake City
to come up with the £19,000 needed for the project.
Juliet McCracken
(A book on John Allan is available in the Information Centre)
Doune Artist selected as
Finalist in 2018 Scottish
Portrait Awards
Justine Bainbridge’s candid shot of fellow artist Deborah
Sanderson having a smoke outside the Lillie Art Gallery
in Milngavie has been selected as a finalist for the 2018
Scottish Portrait Awards. There are two categories - fine art
and black and white photography - the winner of each to be
announced at the awards ceremony held at the Scottish Arts
Club in Edinburgh in early November. The exhibition of all
56 selected finalists’ works will open to the public shortly
after, moving on to the Glasgow Art Club in January. Best of
luck, Justine!
7

Woodlane in Drapers Awards Spotlight
For the second year of asking, and in the face of stiff
competition from retailers throughout the UK, Woodlane
of Doune has again been chosen as a finalist in this year’s
prestigious and influential Drapers Independents Awards in
the Best Customer Experience and Best Marketing Campaign
categories. Woodlane has previously also been a finalist in
the Womenswear Independent of the Year category.
Woodlane has made a name for itself far beyond Doune by
offering a refreshing, independent alternative to mainstream
womenswear, retailing with a hugely impressive range of
high quality styles; top level customer service is embedded
in its DNA. Woodlane strives to go the extra mile, as
summed up by its slogan “We’re all about you...” And word
is definitely spreading!
The self-styled ‘Woodlane Girls’ are a knowledgeable,
“Nevertheless, I am especially delighted that Woodlane
has again been shortlisted in the Best Customer Experience
category, a quality which we hold dear. We work very hard
at putting all visitors to Woodlane first and are genuinely
moved by the depth of goodwill and attachment shown by
our amazing customers, suppliers and agents alike. The
great positive comments we receive are a big reason why we
all love what we do – and I guess show we must be doing
something right!
“Our Best Marketing Campaign shortlisting this year
recognises our ongoing and popular daily ‘Woodlane Wows’
- stunning past season outfits still looking for a home -
where we have slashed the price to give a one-off bargain!
Several customers now set alarms to check for the new daily
‘Woodlane Wow’. These can be posted – in fact, we even
recently sent one to Australia!
“We are currently very busy taking delivery of our new
season’s stock – which is looking amazing. All the Woodlane
Girls will be heading down to the awards event in London
on 12 September. We apologise that the shop will be closed
that day but please help us by keeping all fingers and toes
crossed for a win this year and maybe help put Doune on
the UK fashion map! In the meantime, I would like to thank
all our wonderful customers for their continued loyalty and
support – and of course the amazing Woodlane Girls – you
are all so much appreciated. The last 16 years have been the
best, thank you”.
We wish Cheryl and her team all the best for the big day on
12 September.
The ‘Woodlane Girls’ (l-r): Hannah Seal, Pauline Fisher,
Liz Donaldson, Cheryl Sivewright, Caroline Orr-Ewing and
Karen Malloch
enthusiastic and experienced team, who are proud of their
well-deserved reputation for creating a variety of wonderful
and different looks. They love to help you find the perfect
outfit (and never try and talk you into buying something that
doesn’t suit you), selected from Woodlane’s eclectic range of
high quality styles and brands, carefully sourced each season
by its founder, Cheryl Sivewright, from individual suppliers
located all around the world.
Cheryl told The Bridge: “This is a fantastic accolade. We
are absolutely delighted that our wee shop in Doune seems
to be maintaining such a high profile amongst a variety of
high calibre UK retailing peers, and at such a prestigious
event. However, knowing our customers leave having had a
great shopping experience is far more important to us than
receiving a gong.
Juliet McCracken
To see each new, daily ‘Woodlane Wow’ check out the
Woodlane of Doune Facebook page or Woodlane’s website
(woodlaneofdoune.co.uk).
Cheryl in reflective mode…!
8

Farewell to Rev. Andrew Campbell
The Rev. Andrew Campbell, Minister to Gargunnock,
Kincardine-in-Menteith and Kilmadock, retired from the
Church of Scotland ministry recently. He preached for the
last time on Sunday 24 June and a very happy presentation
function followed in Blair Drummond Hall.
It seems no time at all since the Rev. Andy arrived seven
years ago, such has been his impact, but now the parting
of the ways has come for him and for his wife Fiona. Andy
had a vigorous, dynamic, ‘in your face’ style of preaching:
no-one fell asleep on his watch on a Sunday morning! He
evangelised very effectively, not forgetting our need for
regular injections of Christian education. Possessed of
excellent people skills he made a substantial impact on all
three communities, displaying a particular affinity with the
agricultural heartland.
Stirling Presbytery was also in receipt of his talented services
in a range of situations, especially training in Christian
service. Rev. Andy visited widely and was a real tower of
strength in serious and end-of-earthly-life situations.
It is understandable, but wrong, to assume that the services
of the minister’s wife is a given, but not so. Fiona has been
an outstanding support to her husband in all his work; she
has also started projects of her own which proved very
successful.
We give thanks for their time with us and wish them
Godspeed in this new chapter of their lives together in Oban.
Bobby Liddell
Session Clerk, Kilmadock Parish Church
Harvest Supper: a taste of Malawi
How much does it cost to send someone to secondary school for
a year? In Malawi, it costs 90 kilos of rice. If a farmer can sell
that much, they can afford to send one of their children to school
for a year. St Modoc’s has taken up the challenge to sell 90 kilos
of rice, in memory of John McCracken, one of our congregation
who was the leading authority on the history of Malawi, and
who died last autumn. We are working through a Fairtrade
organisation called Just Trading Scotland (https://www.jts.co.uk).
The rice is fragrant and delicious and is proving very popular.
This year, we will showcase Malawi rice at our Harvest Supper
on Saturday 6 October, at 7 pm in the Rural Hall in Doune. For
£10 (£5 for children), we offer a tasty meal and, we hope, some
Malawian music as well. You will be able to buy some of the
rice, also some preserves from Swaziland. We are hoping to raise
some extra money too, so that we can help fund other agricultural
projects: a plough costs only about £50, and a solar water pump
for irrigation about £100.
Scotland and Malawi have had close connections since the days
of David Livingstone of Blantyre and his efforts to stop the slave
trade there. St Modoc’s Harvest Supper is a chance to celebrate
the link and to take home some of Malawi’s great farm produce.
A brighter future for Malawi’s schoolchildren.
Alison Peden
9

Spring/Summer Updates
News from Lodge St James
Since the recess in April the Freemasons of Doune have been busy with remedial works inside and outside the lodge. This has
been coordinated by the RWM (Right Worshipful Master) Tommy Johnstone and his team of volunteers.
Recent months have also seen the success of four of our bowlers, Davie McNeill, Davy Armstrong, John Donald and Billy
McAllister, who defended their title at Crieff Bowling Club, retaining the Crabbie Trophy. Everyone had an excellent day.
Some of our members have also celebrated special days in their lives. Malcolm McLean, who used to live in Deanston but
now stays in Helensburgh, turned 80 and Bob Mitchell, who lives in Doune, turned 70. We wish them both very happy
birthdays.
Coming up in Lodge 171
The next few months will be very busy for the masons of Doune. As we resume our meetings in September, we will be
welcoming two gentlemen who will be joining our lodge; in October we will host our annual visit from the Provincial Grand
Lodge of Perthshire West and make our own annual visit to Westhoughton near Bolton.
Further Information
In safe hands (l-r): Billy McAllister, Davy Armstrong, John Donald and Davie McNeill were
not going to let go of the Crabbie Trophy!
If any gentleman would like any more information on the Freemasons of Doune please contact the secretary, Norman Austin,
on 07948 330848.
Looking for funding?
Gordon Mitchell
Stirling Council and Stirlingshire Voluntary Enterprise (SVE) will be holding a funding fair in Bridge of Allan Parish Church
Halls on Tuesday 2 October. You can drop in and meet a variety of funders between 3 pm and 6.30 pm. Funders include the
Big Lottery, Foundation Scotland, Robertson Trust, Corra Foundation, Climate Challenge Fund and many more.
If you work with a community or voluntary organisation, social enterprise or charity and you are looking for funding to deliver
projects within your community, here is your chance to meet potential funders face to face to discuss your project and what sort
of funding might be available. Appointments are not necessary, just come along when it suits you between 3 and 6.30 pm.
In addition a Gift Aid workshop will be taking place to answer all your questions about Gift Aid and its relevance to your
organisation. This workshop will have limited places and must be booked in advance. Further details will be available closer
to the time from Jean Cowie at Stirling Council (cowiej@stirling.gov.uk, tel: 01786 233143) and from Lee Stevenson and
Rachel Johnston at SVE (leestevenson@sventerprise.org.uk, racheljohnston@sventerprise.org.uk). Please keep in touch.
Jean Cowie, Funding Officer
To keep up to date with funding opportunities register on our Funding Stirling website: http://stirling.fundingscotland.com
10

More good news from the Ponds!
A team of CEMEX volunteers lent a hand on 25 July, aided and abetted by members of the Woodland Group.
Having been chosen as the recipient of a wonderful £4000
award, thanks to Tesco’s Bags of Help scheme, it has been
possible to purchase more items of important equipment
including a mower for the tractor, two all-weather bench
seats, two more sturdy picnic tables and a lorry-load of
aggregate to improve the paths. Many thanks are due to
those who voted for the Ponds.
There have been lots of visitors during the weeks of good
weather: the word is getting around that this is a tremendous
asset to the area and a great ‘destination’ in which to walk,
picnic, play games and enjoy nature. Every age and ability
can have all kinds of fun, buggy pushers and wheel chair
users included, and because of the character of the Ponds, it
never feels over-crowded.
Help was also forthcoming on the two CEMEX lend-a-hand
days, one in June and one in July, with a third scheduled for
5 September. Repairs to the main hide and necessary wood
treatment were carried out, the ground cleared of unwelcome
ground cover (brambles - ouch!) and path maintenance
undertaken. The new young trees - all indigenous - in the
first coppice area are growing fast, many already appearing
well beyond the tops of their protective tubes. Tubes are
essential, roe deer love tender young trees!
Talking of deer, the Ponds with its trees, bushes and jungly
corners, as well as its spaces and vistas, is a friendly habitat
for deer, as well as for red squirrels and a variety of birds.
The most noticeable are the ducks and swans on the main
pond, where the heron is a frequent visitor. The swans
nested this year, but very disappointingly the eggs did not
hatch. However, there are a few ducklings and their mother
is keeping them carefully in the reeds, until they have grown
more independent.
It has been an amazing year for froglets - masses of them
appearing out of some of the ponds; this is more good news,
as frogs are threatened with disease in many places. A
survey of bugs and butterflies has taken place and, thanks to
the clearance of scrubby trees in some areas, the increased
light and sunshine has encouraged the growth of interesting
and unusual plants, such as Greater Twayblades, Listera
ovata.
Something new for the Ponds: the Forth Valley Orienteering
group have arranged some well-supported events, with
another scheduled for 12 September, 5pm-8pm. A new
map has been created with the help of Harvey Maps in
conjunction with Forth Valley.
There are plans for the now highly experienced Ponds
team to re-build the section of the Commonty Walk nearest
the Lundie track - currently so steep and stony as to be
almost dangerous - subject to obtaining funding for the hire
equipment. It will be a great benefit when completed.
The Family Day was held on Sunday, 19 August, with all
sorts of fun activities laid on for all the young at heart, if not
necessarily young in years!
And finally, a date for the diary. The AGM is set for
Wednesday, 24 October at the Rural Hall, 8.00pm.
Lady Moray
11

Doune Means Business - Playing Tag!
Kilmadock is an amazing area for discovering entrepreneurs and Helen and Jon Cluett who produce
Tough Tags are no exception. Loyal readers of The Bridge may remember the Cluett family being
featured on the front of last November’s issue, having been rescued by the ‘Hogwarts Express’ in the
Highlands.
Tough Tags are tough, weatherproof, bespoke
printed labels, ideal for attaching to items used
in an outdoors environment; they come in three
different sizes and twelve colours. Helen, who also
works as a supply teacher and Jon, a Pastor and
a mountaineering instructor, produce the labels
on their kitchen table with equipment including
a specialist cutting machine. Over the three years
during which they have been producing Tough
Tags the Cluetts have had some very prestigious
clients including the British and Norwegian
armed forces, who need to keep track of all their
equipment. They have customers from all over the
world and are regularly shipping Tough Tags to
far-flung places - Norway, Ireland, Canada, China, Australia, France, Iceland and Germany to name just a few.
Business is good and is growing. Watch out for Helen in the Post Office with a large stack of Tough Tags to mail: she might
create a queue! Tough Tags were originally developed for use on climbing gear but they can be used for labelling countless
other items – bikes, boats, horse riding equipment, golf clubs, shoes, flasks, hand tools, audio equipment – in other words,
anything you want to label with your name, address, email or phone number.
Much of the Cluetts’ business has come through word of mouth and personal recommendations. Helen says that they will be
doing more marketing – being featured in The Bridge is a start! If you need labels for just about anything, take a look at their
helpful website https://toughtags.co.uk or email tagit@toughtags.co.uk.
Diana Bishop
Station Wynd
Doune
FK16 6DT
01786 842412
rtaplanthire1@hotmail.co.uk
RTA plant hire is an independent company supplying
plant to trades and DIY for 15 years. We provide a
prompt and reliable service at competitive rates delivering
across Central Scotland.
Garden Clearances
Snow clearing
Site work
Haulage
Labour/hire
Small/large jobs
Flood prevention
Emergency call outs 24/7
Tractor services
Stump grinding services
Excavators
Dumpers
Paslode repairs/service
Trailers
Snow shovels, salt etc
Small tools
ie garden machinery,
wallpaper strippers,
power washers,
mixers, carpet cleaners
12

People We Meet
The Bridge catches up with motoring journalist Alisdair Suttie
Having grown up ‘between Glasgow
and Cupar’, Alisdair Suttie left home
at 19 with the clear aim of becoming a
motoring journalist. He went to college
in Farnham to study journalism, where
one of the greatest benefits was its
proximity to London - both an exciting
place to be, and the nucleus of the UK
magazine industry. Those were the
days before computers truly took over,
when ‘cutting and pasting’ required
glue and scissors. After graduating,
Alisdair’s first proper job was as a
sub-editor for something new called
an ‘electronic newsletter’. With the
rise of accessible internet in the early
noughties, its owner eventually went
on to become a dotcom millionaire.
Alisdair later went to work for a public
relations agency where working on
the British Touring Car Championship
and the British Rally Championship
brought him closer to his goal of being an automotive
journalist. But though PR was ‘good fun and another step
in the right direction’, he recalls wanting to be ‘on the other
side of the equation’, working in journalism. Alisdair wrote
letter after letter to every car magazine and newspaper he
could think of, ending up getting work experience at What
Car?. He later became an editor at BMW Car Magazine.
Alisdair, who aspired to go freelance, had already been
undertaking freelance work for Autocar and What Car?
alongside his day job at BMW Car. After two years, he
realised that he had written just about everything he could
possibly think of about every BMW on the market. He
longed for something broader and more challenging, and
thought that going freelance full-time might now be a
possibility.
Out of the blue however, only a week or two before he’d
planned to hand in his notice, he received a phone call
from the then editor of What Car?. Before Alisdair could
say a word, the deep voice of the editor boomed down the
line: “ ’Ello Al: d’ya wanna be a road testa?” Thinking the
editor was asking him to apply for a job, Alisdair went to
meet him a few days later. But as soon as he took a seat, the
editor simply asked “When can ya’ start?” Barely a moment
passed before the boss was leaning his head out of his office
shouting “Print that contract!” to the secretary outside.
To many automotive journalists, the chance to be a road
tester is a dream job. “It was kind of a funny way to start,”
Alisdair laughed. “Funny ‘haha’ and funny peculiar; it more
or less set the tone for the next seven years!”
Starting in mid 1998, aged 25, Alisdair was, as he puts it:
‘given the keys to the biggest toy-box in the world’. In the
space of six months, all his previous work began to pay
off. He went from never having sat in an Aston Martin to
being paid to take them home and drive them during the
weekend. This was the tail-end of the golden age of motoring
journalism, when the internet hadn’t yet taken hold of the
media in quite the way it now has and where the amount of
spending on car events and launches was astronomical.
The willingness of manufacturers to bring journalists out to
far-flung places to test their vehicles was astounding. While
the public might consider some reviewers to be biased on this
account, Alisdair passed on to me the lesson he’d had drilled
into him during his training: “You’re there for the reader, not
the manufacturer.” This was a rule he has never taken lightly.
In May 2005, following a downturn in the car market,
Alisdair went fully freelance. He has never looked back.
He and Kathryn met through mutual friends, becoming
serious about each other just after Alisdair had moved from
London to Farnham. Kathryn, as sod’s law dictates, lived
only a mile or so from his old base; needless to say, he ended
up spending far more time back in London than he had
anticipated!
The pair married in 2006. A year later, Kathryn received
a job offer in Scotland and they moved up together. Since
coming to Doune, the couple have had two children, Jamie in
2010 and Eleanor in 2013. It’s rare now, says Al, to step out
of the house without seeing a friendly face and stopping for a
chat. After 15 years of living in London, the move to Doune
brought a welcome change. After a day of work, Alisdair
says he looks forward to driving over the Hill of Row and
‘seeing our jolly village nestled in the divot below’.
The Bridge welcomes Alex, our new student contributor
Alex Parr
13

A recent survey of Doune and Deanston on 4G coverage
from Stirling MSP Bruce Crawford has shown that there
is widespread dissatisfaction about what local people are
paying for in mobile phone tariffs when they are unable to
connect to the most up-to-date mobile internet services.
The survey showed that 53% of local people are unable to
connect to 4G in their own home, and 69% could not connect
elsewhere in Doune and Deanston.
Commenting, Bruce Crawford said: “Firstly, I’m grateful
to everyone who took time to fill out and return my survey
on 4G in the area. There are obvious challenges within rural
communities in terms of mobile internet coverage – however,
I do not think enough has been done to connect rural Stirling
communities such as Doune and Deanston.
Mobile Tariffs Poor Value
“The fact that 71% of local people do not feel that their mobile phone tariff is good value for money because of an inability to
connect to the most up-to-date services is a very serious matter and one that I will be raising with individual mobile network
providers in coming weeks.
“4G access is an important way of modern life, both socially and economically and, as I pursue this issue, I hope to see better
coverage of 4G across the whole rural Stirling area, including in Doune and Deanston.”
14

‘Catching a swarm is a magical experience’ (not)
Michelle Ashford experiences the Bee-tox Treatment!
Last November, we persuaded our removals team to pack
our beehive (complete with bees) along with our worldly
possessions and moved north from Caerphilly in South Wales
to Doune.
We were not convinced that our bees would survive the
winter; its arctic blasts seemed to last an eternity (at one
point we were not convinced that we would make it through
ourselves!) but the hardy little critters survived and thrived.
So much so, that in mid-July, I found myself watching out of
the window as thousands of bees formed a swarm in a tree in
our garden.
When I returned from work that evening, they were still
hanging nonchalantly in the tree. ‘Ah-ha’, I thought to
myself, ‘perhaps I could catch them’. So, I googled ‘catching
a swarm’ and watched a seemingly very helpful video on
You Tube. I rang my husband Tony, who was working in
Germany, and asked him whether he thought I should have
a go. He said that, if I felt confident, I should do it. The
problem was I didn’t feel confident. However the video made
it look easy: ‘Bees in a swarm are docile’ and ‘Catching a
swarm is a magical experience’ were two lines that ring in
my ears even now.
Convinced that preparation would be the key to success, I
donned my Martian-looking bee-keeping suit, complete with
pink flowery wellies, took a cardboard box and ascended
the stepladder to the branch where the swarm was hanging.
From ground level it had definitely looked lower! Perched
on the top of a very wobbly stepladder and holding the box
in one hand, I vigorously shook the branch into the box. This
sounds easier than in fact it was! I clearly irritated the bees
and failed to catch the queen, the one priority essential to
getting the rest of the swarm into the box.
Chased by some very unhappy bees, I rapidly descended the
ladder. Convinced that one had managed to penetrate my
Bee prepared: what could possibly go wrong?
about ‘gently flicking’ the sting out, I pulled it frantically,
releasing the alarm pheromone which served to let all the
other bees know that I had ‘murdered’ one of their own.
What followed can only be described as a comedy of errors.
I ran towards the house chased by the bees, managed to duck
inside, washed my head with lots of soap in an attempt to
disguise the ‘aroma’, put my hood back up and ventured out
again. They were still after me!
Despite my injury, I decided to finish what I’d started and
went back up the ladder surrounded by a lot (and I mean a
lot) of angry bees. Holding the box and trembling on the
ladder, I shook the branch again and again, managing this
time to dislodge most of the rest of the no-longer-docile bees
into the box and, hooray, catching the queen!
Success, I thought, but it came at a price. You Tube helpfully
suggested leaving the bees in the box near the new hive
overnight. As I carried the box to the new hive, I tripped over
a ladder and bashed both knees on the patio. Gosh, that did
hurt, but at least it temporarily made me forget the pain in
my head! The whole process had taken about two hours and I
was left feeling a bit battered and bruised.
The next morning, at 5am, dressed in my bee suit, I
unceremoniously emptied the box into the new hive and
covered it quickly! With the bees safe in their new home, I
counted the cost of my exploits. I had definitely experienced
‘Bee-tox’ treatment! For several days, the left side of my
face was beautifully swollen; the sting might have eradicated
all my wrinkles but it left me looking most peculiar - prone
to scaring children at ten paces! How bizarre, I thought to
myself, that people actually pay to have this done!
The bees are enjoying their new hive.
Branches weighed down by the weight of the swarm.
armour, I took off my hood and that’s when the bee struck,
ramming the sting into my head with the force of what felt
like a sledgehammer! Forgetting all that I should have known
Three days later, a second swarm appeared. I left that one to
Tony!
Michelle Ashford
15

Leaves from a Doune Diary
As the First World War moves into its final chapter, bad news continues to reach the
families of Kilmadock. Moira Buchanan continues her fictional diary of a local lady; all
the events noted are taken from news reports of the day.
Sunday 7 July 1918
John Bond received a wristlet watch with illuminated dial
from the congregation of St. Modoc’s Church. He rendered
good service in the choir but is now called to the colours at the
age of eighteen. Deanston Mills are idle as the workers enjoy
their summer holiday.
Sunday 14 July 1918
News has come that Duncan Stewart, blacksmith at
Kincardine-in-Menteith, has died after a cycling accident. He
was going rather fast down the brae from Doune to Bridge
of Teith when he was confronted by a motor and a cab and
hesitated a moment too long. Dr. Reid took him home but
his injuries were too severe. Anglers are being rewarded
with numbers of trout from the Teith and the bowling clubs
are deep in competition. Visitor numbers have increased
considerably and should reach a peak soon with the ‘Glesca
Ferr’. Doune Castle hosted a fête yesterday held by the
Scotch Girls’ Friendly Society in aid of their War Work Fund.
Stalls laden with all kinds of handiwork were presided over by
Lady Muir and Miss Campbell Swinton of Glenardoch and the
flower stall from Deanston House gardens was a great blaze
of colour. There was a concert in the Baron’s Hall and pipers
from the HLI came from Cornton Camp.
Sunday 21 July 1918
The district is crowded with visitors and our shopkeepers are
smiling. Doune must make hay while the sun shines. Alas, one
poor family has had a sad visit. A Mr. Livingstone developed
pneumonia and died while holidaying here. Rev. James Scott
of the West Church has received a Call from Broughty Ferry
United Free Church. It will be interesting to hear his response.
(To receive a Call meant the other church hoped to employ the
minister).
Sunday 28 July 1918
A Mrs. McDonald of Aberdeen, a soldier’s widow, has been
appointed teacher at Drumviach School in place of Miss
Hislop who has retired. In recognition of Miss Hislop’s 20
years’ service a little ceremony was held where she received
a purse of bank notes and hearty thanks for all her efforts.
The Call received by Rev. Scott stirred the West Church into
showing how well they regard their minister and after hearing
strong arguments for his remaining Rev. Scott agreed to stay.
A substantial rise in his stipend may have helped.
Sunday 4 August 1918
All three Presbyterian ministers took part in this evening’s
Commemoration Service in the Parish Church to mark the
fourth anniversary of the declaration of War. Many have
been the sacrifices demanded of us; none greater than those
referred to by Rev. Menzies in his address ‘Our Heroic Dead’.
He was followed by a rendition of The Land o’ the Leal for
which we stood in solemn silence. Many a heart in the packed
congregation must have ached. For a few weeks we had a
respite from ill news but last week word came that John, Peter
McAlpine the cattle-dealer’s son, has been wounded. Worse
news arrived of Morten Winter who was a clerk at Doune
station. He has been missing since the 21st of March and now
his people in Doune have received notice that he died during
the great German offensive at that time.
Sunday 11 August 1918
Robert McLeod of the HLI is home on leave and the lad
Millar from Spittalton is back after a daring escape from
German hands in the company of a Russian fellow prisoner.
Alas, Alex Moffat, who was transferred from the Transport
Service to the Durham Light Infantry, has been reported
missing since the end of May. Alex was a ploughman with
Macfarlane of Dripend until he joined up. The fête at the
castle last month has raised over £190. This will go toward
the cost of running a clubroom for the munitions workers at
Gretna as well as comforts for women in war work. The West
Church has celebrated its Jubilee (50 years) with becoming
enthusiasm and an excellent history of the congregation
appeared in the newspaper.
Sunday 18 August 1918
Farmers are nervous about the potato crop. The prices offered
are low and there are rumours that the government might step
in to control distribution.
Sunday 25 August 1918
Willie McLaren of Drumore has had official intimation that
his son William, serving with the Canadian forces, is dead.
James, another son with the Black Watch, is presently on
home leave. Harvesting has begun and sheaves are set in neat
rows in the early fields.
Moira Buchanan
David McAlpine
Building Services
All Building work undertaken
New Build, Extensions, Pointing,
Mono Blocks, Slabbing, Stonework
Tele - 01786 841925
Mob. – 07919 088278
16

Unfolded: the long route of Harvey Maps
I have been asked a number of times: How did you get into
mapmaking? I always answer honestly: ‘by mistake’.
This was never planned as my chosen path in life. I did
dither between conference interpreting and engineering but
cartography was never in the frame. Then orienteering came
along. One day someone asked me to take over drawing a
map because he was off abroad. This was
1967 and the notion of adding a few newlybuilt
tracks to the OS black and white
photocopied map was a totally new idea.
I was shown a Rotring pen, given some
sheets of drafting film and left to get on
with it; but afterwards I took the notion of
having a proper go myself. There was a
wood near my family home and I spent a
happy holiday bringing the map up to date
with a few paths and fences.
My drawing job complete (and with
quantities of ink on my fingers) I went
in search of a printer. Disaster no 1 came
when the printed maps were collected:
many were blurred. Happily, there were
enough good ones to hold an event. The
controller was a friend, Robin Harvey;
disaster no 2 struck when his sharp eye
and superior navigation resulted in the
discovery that my map showed one valley
100m (yes, 100m - a whole football pitch
length!) out of place.
Fortunately, not long afterwards, those maps were made
redundant when they drove the new M4 straight through the
wood. I made a lampshade out of one of them.
By this time Robin was on to greater things. He was invited
to make the event maps for the 1976 World Championships
in Aviemore. Moray Estates generously loaned and furnished
for us (Robin and I had shacked up together by then) a
farmhouse on Darnaway Estate, the area for the Individual
event. It came complete with stunning views of the Findhorn
and drinking water, after rain, the colour of strong tea; our
nearest neighbour was three miles away. That was the secret
base. Visitors had to use the codename ‘Chichester’ to
maintain absolute security. Meanwhile, we officially lived in
Falkirk.
It is not a big jump from there to the foundation by Robin and
me of ‘Map Service’ when he, a trainee architect, was without
a job in a recession and I still had not chosen a career.
A year later, in October 1977, deciding that this was probably
our lives’ work, we incorporated the wee business; Harvey
Map Services Ltd was founded.
Jumping forward: in the early 1980s we purchased a single
colour printing machine. Thor, as he was nicknamed,
weighed in at three tons.
So began my days as a printer. After a short, very short,
course in printing at Glasgow College of Building and
Printing, I was let loose on the excitements and challenges of
register, colour balance, photographic positives, inky rollers
and missing colours. There were 24 oil points to be serviced
daily, 18 grease nipples weekly, nuts and bolts galore. I was
in heaven (what was that about engineering?).
Moving swiftly on: by the mid 1990s Harvey Maps had a
staff of nine including a young ex-Military Survey officer,
Peter Child, and Jacci Cameron (Accounts); Peter and Jacci
Harvey Maps staff celebrate EOT day. Back row: Adam, Lewis, Peter; front row:
Juliet, Chris, Robin, Sue, Pete, Laura, Jacci, Tom.
are still mainstays of the company. We had moved in 1981
to our current premises on Doune Main Street, a building
complete with ghosts, a ring in the wall to hitch your horse, a
millstone as a floor covering, and a well in case of hard times.
In 2001 our staff complement, grown gradually to 14, was
decimated when Foot and Mouth Disease closed down the
countryside. We were glad to survive at all through what was,
for me, the worst year of my business life.
The remaining six of us set to rebuild: 2017 was, in a way,
a golden year for us. As Bridge readers may remember, that
year we received the top British Cartographic Society Award;
2017 was also our 40th Anniversary.
To make a proper meal of it, that same October, Harvey Maps
made the transition to an EOT (Employee Ownership Trust).
This format, increasingly popular (especially in Scotland),
gives the employees major involvement in the direction
and management of the Company, with the right to elect a
Director and a Trustee from among the staff. All profits are
distributed to, and for, the benefit of the employees.
This is a new situation and we are all feeling our way. The
thing that hasn’t changed is our passion for maps, nor the
creativity and dedicated care that can make them accurate,
easy to read, practical in use, and a joy to the eye.
Sue Harvey
17

EDITORIAL AND LETTERS
Editorial
With the summer holidays already behind us and the year heading for its autumn step-change, The Bridge is back on track
with a feast of cheerful reading. We have a quantity of congratulations to hand out, first of all to Lynn Abrams for the truly
outstanding distinction she has gained in being elected a Fellow of the British Academy. It is not every day that Doune can
boast a citizen who, in being awarded the very highest accolade for those working in the field of humanities and social sciences
research, takes her place among the world’s leading academics in that field. We should all be very proud of Lynn.
Congratulations too to young equestrian Ellie Bryce who recently helped Scotland win bronze at the prestigious Frickley Park
National Under 18 Eventing Championships and who, as we go to press, is about to compete in further Championship Horse
Trials at Blair Castle. Good luck, Ellie and good luck, too, to photographer Justine Bainbridge and to the entire Woodlane
team, finalists, respectively, in the 2018 Scottish Portrait Awards and the Drapers Independents Awards; all of them await lifechanging
- or, at least, career-enhancing - judgements this autumn. The Bridge feels privileged to be able, in a single edition,
to report on excellence achieved locally at national and international level in the fields of academia, sport, art and fashion. It’s
not a bad showing for one little country area.
At the time of going to press, The Bridge team was saddened to hear of the death of Bob Oliver. We should like to extend our
sympathies to Annette and her family.
All letters to The Bridge must be signed and accompanied by contact details. In special cases contact details will not be
published if so requested. Letters and articles published in The Bridge do not necessarily reflect the views, beliefs or
opinions of the editorial team, who reserve the right to edit or not to publish any particular letter or article.
Letters
Dear Bridge,
‘Communication’ was the title of an email I sent to Scottish
Water following their visit to Doune during the last week
of July. On 26 July I set the washing machine for a short
wash and went out. When I returned I found the clothes
dirty and smelly and also there was black water in the
toilet on flushing. I spent the next few days, after cleaning
the machine, re-washing stains out of clothes, not totally
successfully. If residents had been warned of work, people
would have been aware not to use water until later.
To date, still no reply from Scottish Water to my email.
Christine Brownlee, Castlehill
(Ed. note: Christine contacted us again just before we went
to press, to say she has now received an acknowledgement
from the Water Board and been given a case number.)
GEORGE MCALLISTER SERVICES
AGRICULTURAL & LANDSCAPING CONTRACTOR
SMALL BUILDING PROJECTS, DIY, FENCING,
GARDEN MAINTENANCE, LANDSCAPING,
VAN FOR TRANSPORT OR SUPPLY LABOUR
ANYTHING AT ALL, GIVE ME A CALL
MOB: 07592006883
TEL: 01786 842467
11 CASTLEHILL, DOUNE
18

Co-op Takes to the Hills
In mid-August, Doune Co-op staff and a few other Doune
bodies set off up Ben Ledi to raise money for some good
causes in the local community. Thanks to the generosity of
customers, friends and families, at least an amazing £800
has already been raised; this will be divided amongst the
three unsuccessful candidates out of four local good causes
who applied for the Co-op 1% funding scheme. The idea
was entirely due to local Doune Co-op staff who didn’t
want anyone to miss out and they haven’t finished yet; they
are planning another fundraiser very soon, but the next
event will avoid the sweat, pain and tears of this particular
achievement! I can testify that any sponsorship money
raised from Ben Ledi was hard-earned by some unfit but very
determined people who put in a great effort.
Ken Russell
National Recognition for Safari Park
Blair Drummond Safari Park was presented with three
silver awards at this year’s annual BIAZA (British and Irish
Association of Zoos and Aquariums) awards ceremony. The
BIAZA awards provide an opportunity for the UK’s top
zoos and aquariums to be commended for projects which
demonstrate best practice and excellence.
The Safari Park picked up a silver award for the barbary
macaque reserve and another silver for their support of the
Bulindi Chimpanzee and Community Project in Africa.
The third silver was picked up by Safari Park Operations
Supervisor Dave Warren for his photograph of a Goshawk.
Silver stare: Dave Warren’s award-winning photo of a
Goshawk
HalloWILD at Blair Drummond
Halloween this year at Blair
Drummond Safari Park
lasts from 13 - 28 October.
With lots of activities, including the creepy Spook
Rooms and a Trick or Treat Trail, this is being billed
as one of the Scotland top Halloween Events.
Tickets will be on sale from the Safari Park website
from mid-September. Members go free.
19

Lending a Hand
Community Spirit is Alive and Well in Doune
Recently, whilst enjoying the beautiful weather, I found
myself reflecting on the success of the farmers’ market, held
in May. What a wonderful atmosphere was created that day
with local residents and visitors alike enjoying the sunshine
and the variety of fresh produce on offer. Everyone said the
market was a great addition to village life and all were keen
to know if the event would be repeated. The market was
organised by the local Business Association, not for profit,
but to offer something different in the village that would
appeal to everyone. I know a licence has been applied for
so hopefully there will be more farmers’ markets to look
forward to in the future.
It also reminded me just how many people give up their time
to volunteer in all sorts of other ways. Take the volunteers
who have transformed the award winning Doune Ponds.
What an amazing job they have done in making this area into
an accessible haven for wildlife that we can all enjoy; and
how lucky we are to have this right on our doorstep.
Then there is Village Pride who meet every two weeks
in an effort to keep the village looking clean and tidy:
litter picking, sweeping up leaves, removing weeds and
basically taking care of anything else that needs doing. The
Information and Heritage Centre is staffed by volunteers
who are always on hand to advise visitors on local history
and attractions. ROOK (Rescuers of Old Kilmadock) is
another band of willing locals who are restoring the ancient
cemetery which lies just outside the village.
building. Our lovely hanging baskets are watered regularly
during the summer months by volunteers. The Gala and
Christmas Fayre are also organised by people giving their
time for free. Our community newspaper, The Bridge, relies
entirely on volunteers to edit, produce and contribute to its
monthly issues.
I could go on and on and, in listing the amount of voluntary
work going on in our villages, am sure that I have only
scratched the surface. All of these efforts, woven as they
are into the fabric of village life, make Doune and Deanston
great places to live, work and visit. All of them could do with
a bit of extra help.
Many would say that community spirit is all but non-existent,
given today’s busy, fast-moving pace of life; loneliness
is prevalent in many of our towns and cities. Here in
Kilmadock community spirit is alive and well. Volunteering
is a great way to meet people and have fun at the same time.
It doesn’t mean you have to commit to something every
week; just turn up when you can and help make a difference.
You’ll be very welcome!
Sue Sedgwick
For further information on the various local groups who
would welcome extra helpers, please contact the Information
and Heritage Centre.
The Rural Hall, home to so many local events is also run
by volunteers with profits utilised to repair and upgrade the
DOUNE CABS IS A NEW LOCAL FAMILY RUN PRIVATE HIRE TAXI SERVICE
HAPPY TO COVER NIGHTS OUT AIRPORT RUNS NO JOURNEY TOO SMALL!
FULLY COMPLIANT WITH STIRLING COUNCIL AND FULLY INSURED.
Contact Steve on 07789430894 or find us on Facebook
20

Scotland’s Water is not Unlimited
Despite the recent, sometimes heavy rainfall, the good weather over the summer months has impacted our natural resources
in some areas. So, regardless of whether it’s bright sunshine or pouring with rain, water is precious and we should all find
ways to save it. Following a sustained dry period without any significant rainfall, customer usage has increased significantly.
Scottish Water is encouraging people to take simple but important steps to use water wisely and conserve our public water
supplies.
In some areas there has been a 30 per cent increase in demand for water during the summer so far and an additional 140 million
litres are currently being produced and pushed through the system every day to meet current customer usage.
Average reservoir levels are generally normal for this time of year but the current level of usage and continuing dry weather
has meant stocks of stored water available for use are reducing.
Customers are being asked to reduce usage wherever possible. Businesses are also being asked to consider their usage and how
they can use water more efficiently.
Simple, practical steps which we encourage include:
• Taking shorter showers
• Using a watering can rather than a hose to water plants
• Using a bucket rather than a hose to wash vehicles; only washing windscreens/lights instead of the whole vehicle
• Turning off taps in the home whenever possible
• Using washing machines and dishwaters fully loaded
Scotland has a strong and resilient distribution network to keep customers supplied but Scottish Water is asking everyone
to play their part in helping reduce the effects of Scotland having enjoyed its hottest and driest summer in many years. By
encouraging simple but important changes to how people use water over the coming days and weeks of dry, warm weather, this
will make a big difference to the flow of water around the network and protect supplies.
Michelle Ashford
Chief Operating Officer for the Water Industry Commission for Scotland
Information provided by Scottish Water; more details can be found on their website http://www.scottishwater.co.uk
Andrew Anderson & Sons
Funeral Directors
Est.1969
We are proud to offer a 24 hour caring
and professional service to the local community
We are pleased to offer
Golden Charter Pre-Paid Funeral Plans
“Creating peace of mind for you and your family”
Accordionists Igor Sayenko (left) and Oleksiy Kolomoiets
delighted an appreciative audience at St Modoc’s Church
on 4 August with their incredibly versatile interpretations of
‘happy classics’. They played an amazing range of music,
from Widor’s Toccata, to Ukrainian folk music, to a mixture
of Scottish tunes and Mozart. The concert raised £600 for
the Hippokrat Society in the Ukraine which supports young
people disabled by the Chernobyl nuclear explosion. It also
gave the audience the opportunity to enjoy music, wine and
company on a summer evening.
A wide range of memorial stones are available.
We can also clean and add further inscription to
existing family memorials
For all enquiries
Tel: Callander 01877 330398
Balfron: 01360 441023
“Stand sure we will look after you & your family”
Funeral Home, Glenartney Road, Callander, FK17 8EB
64B Buchanan Street, Balfron, G63 0TW
Email: info@anderson-funerals.co.uk • www.anderson-funerals.co.uk
21

Diary of Community Events September
22

What’s On
The Village Quiz Returns!
Friday 14 September, 7.30 in the Rural Hall
The Great Tradition of the DOUNE AND DEANSTON VILLAGE QUIZ is being revived. After a couple of
years of having been ‘rested’, the Quiz has now been adopted by the Kilmadock Society (with the approval of the
former SWRI who inaugurated it way back in 1989). Teams of four or three Persons, who may represent Local
Organisations or merely Themselves, will pay £2 per Head on entry (£1 for under 18s), and Demonstrate their
Prowess in answering Questions both Grand and Trivial on General, Local, Sporting, Historical, Horticultural and
Culinary Knowledge. The victors will win Magnificent Surprise Prizes - plus the Bunty Smeaton Trophy to curate
until the next Quiz. Those who sadly come last will, as Tradition dictates, be awarded splendid Wooden Spoons. But
with so much tension and fun, Everyone is a Winner! And – for those who recall the last quiz (which some thought
might be the LAST QUIZ) – this time there will be SOME questions GUARANTEED that you can Answer.
The Quizmaster for the Evening will be Callum Brown. Funds are in aid of the Kilmadock Society’s programme of
local events and the conservation project at Old Kilmadock. Tea and Biscuits for all. No pre-booking required. Pay
on the Night.
Following the success of last year’s event, Camphill
Blair Drummond are pleased to be Opening the Doors to
Blair Drummond House and its Community on Saturday
15 September 1pm - 4pm. Doors Open is Scotland’s
largest free festival that celebrates heritage and the built
environment. It offers free access to over 1000 venues
across the country throughout September, every year.
Meet people who live and work at Camphill Blair
Drummond, join one of our free guided tours of the
B-listed, baronial mansion house and its gardens, ask
questions and learn about our plans for the future.
Tea, coffee and delicious home baking will be available,
along with many items hand made in our workshops.
Doors Open Event at Camphill
Harvest Supper
Saturday 6 October 7pm Rural Hall, Doune
Tickets £10 (children £5) on sale in the Information Centre
Home cooking Malawi rice and Fairtrade preserves Bring your own bottle
23

What’s On ... continued
Scottish Wildlife Trust, Callander Group
Scottish Wildcat Conservation
by David Barclay, Cat Conservation Project Officer, RZSS.
Callander Kirk Hall, South Church Street, FK17 8N Sept 11 7.30pm
Suggested donations: £2 for members, £2.50 non-members, students free.
Callander & West Perthshire U3A
The new U3A (University of the Third Age) year
begins in September and we have all the usual
interesting groups on offer – over 30 subjects with
something for everyone, from Amateur Astronomy
to Swimming, with languages and History, Games
and Art in between. Have a look at our website,
Callander and West Perthshire U3A, to see the new
timetables and who to contact if you would like to
join us.
New members will need to register: a form can
be found on the website. Returning members just
need to contact the Membership Secretary – again
all details are online. Our fee for the year is just
£10 to cover administration and membership
of The Third Age Trust, the parent body of the
University of the Third Age. Individual groups
have their own extra charges for equipment,
refreshments or hire of a hall. We believe this is
a fair way to ask our members to pay only for the
groups they join. If anyone already belongs to
another U3A group the annual fee is reduced to £5.
We welcome new members at any time of the year
to join our growing U3A of over 300 participants
and share in the ethos of the U3A which is to
Learn, Laugh and Live.
Marguerite Kobs
Strathallan Speakers’ Meeting
Strathallan Speakers meets from 8 pm to 10 pm in Dunblane Cathedral Halls, twice a month starting on the first
Tuesday in September. We are an informal group who meet to enjoy improving our communication skills with
helpful advice, practice and supportive feedback. Whether for personal satisfaction or professional advancement,
we can help you in a friendly and relaxed setting.
To get in touch or to find out more, visit us at strathallan.weebly.com.
Come and join us at our meeting on Tuesday, 4 September.
24

School Report
Doune Baby and Toddler Group
Pastures New!
Thursday 23 August saw us settle into our new venue in the
heart of our community, the Rural Hall. Doune Baby and
Toddlers now runs at the slightly later time of 10.30am until
12.30pm. We welcome all pre-school children and their
carers to try their first session free of charge. Continuing with
tradition, children will receive a healthy snack and enjoy lots
of free play along with the occasional structured activity.
The glorious summer weather at the end of last term enabled
the children to enjoy a lovely teddy bear’s picnic at Doune
Ponds. Outdoor play is something we hope to continue in the
Rural Hall gardens as well as in the grounds of St Modoc’s
church, whose members continue to generously open their
beautiful garden to us.
Once again, we received a high footfall at our Gala stall and
we extend our thanks to everyone who assisted in making the
day a huge success.
The success of Doune Baby and Toddlers is highly dependent
not only on their members but also on local businesses and
groups. We continue to be humbled by the generosity we
Arnhall Day Nursery
With the arrival of our new hens - some of which we
hatched ourselves and some which we adopted from the
British Hen Welfare Trust - our maintenance man has been
extremely busy building them a coop and run. The children
are enjoying looking after their feathered friends, feeding
them and collecting their eggs, which they use to make
cakes and pancakes. The hens have all adjusted to their new
environment very well.
The children are continuing to enjoy their daily Forest School
experiences where they are further extending their risk
knowledge and life skills by prepping, cooking and eating
their lunches in the woods, using safety knives and cooking
with fire pits.
We hold our awards ceremony on Friday 31 August when we
are up for Outdoor Learning and Training and Development
awards, made by Nursery Management Today. We will keep
you posted.
Amanda MacDonald
receive, whether it be raffle donations; offering your grounds
for our children to play in; providing advertising space or
running activities for our children to enjoy; the list is endless.
Without you, our group would not thrive. This month we
would particularly like to thank Doune Co-op for selecting
us as one of the chosen charities for which they raised funds
during their charity climb on 19 August (p19).
We are thrilled to have been accepted to take part in Tesco’s
‘Bags of Help’ grant scheme. From Saturday 1 September
until Wednesday 31 October, you will have the option to vote
for us each time you shop at Tesco’s Dunblane and Callander
stores. We would be extremely grateful for local support in
helping us raise funds for our group. Please think of us when
casting your vote!
Finally, and importantly, we would like to wish all our lovely
members who are moving on to nursery and school the best
of luck in their new ventures.
Carrie McMillan
School Play Trail
Early last year parents and pupils at Doune Primary School
were asked how they would like Parent Council funds to be
spent and top of the list was improving the school play trail.
This subsequently became the focus for the Parent Council
fundraising. The outdoor play trail was installed over 10
years ago and is well used by school and nursery pupils,
their siblings and the wider community. However, through
constant use the ground under and around the play trail has
deteriorated and on wet days mud makes it unusable.
After considering a number of surfacing options the Parent
Council have found a supplier who installs a Mulchbond
safer surfacing, which is frequently used in playgrounds and
play parks. Full funding for this option was not available
prior to the summer break but we are delighted to announce
that further funding has been secured and we can now go
ahead with installation of the surfacing.
The Parent Council would like to thank everyone who has
supported this project, especially Stirling Council who have
awarded £1,000 through their Community Grants Scheme
and the Kilmadock Wind Farm Trust, who have donated
£5,500. Finally, we’d like to thank the pupils, friends and
families of Doune Primary School who have supported many
fundraising activities and events over the last two years.
Without all of these generous contributions this work would
not be possible.
Hopefully, weather permitting, the surfacing will be installed
soon and we’ll be able to send an update to The Bridge later
this year.
Fiona Miller
25

SPORT
Doune Castle AFC
Saturday 11 August
Doune Castle 9 Holytown Colts 2
Doune overwhelmed their Lanarkshire opponents in this Douglas Smith League Cup tie and could well have won by an even
wider margin. A new-look Castle side included seven players making their competitive debuts.
The Castle scored after three minutes through Robert Purves and a minute later Alan Inglis made it 2-0. Holytown pulled one
back after 10 minutes and then held firm against a wave of Castle attacks. After 30 minutes the visitors were awarded a penalty
which they converted. Doune restored their lead after 37 minutes when Alan Inglis headed a Lukasz Duszynski corner home
and went ahead five minutes later when Alan Inglis was brought down in the area and Lukasz Duszynski scored. Alan Inglis
made it 5-2 after 69 minutes to complete his hat-trick when he was replaced by John Marshall who made it 6-2 and goals from
Lukasz Duszynski, John Marshall and Graeme Johnstone completed the scoring.
This was a promising opening display from Doune with the re-shaped side taking time to settle but there were many pluses in
an excellent performance overall with some of the quick passing particularly impressive.
Saturday 18 August
Glasgow University 2 Doune Castle 3
Doune claimed their place in the League Cup quarter finals with a thoroughly deserved win. Both sides should take great credit
for producing such an entertaining contest at a rain-soaked Excelsior Stadium.
The university went ahead after two minutes and it only took three minutes for Castle to equalise when a fierce drive by Sean
Wilbert was turned into his own net by a University full back. The university went back into the lead after 13 minutes but
Doune hit back when Lukasz Duszynski drilled an unstoppable shot into the far corner of the net from 16 yards to leave the
sides level at the break.
After 57 minutes Robert Purves fed the ball to Lukasz Duszynski whose run evaded two defenders. His low ball across the
goal was met by Sean Wilbert who smashed a first time shot high into the net from six yards. Doune’s win meant they topped
the three-team group with maximum points and it was heartening to see how quickly the new-look side have gelled.
Ian Sommerville
Nigel Bishop
Sean Wilbert nets the winner
26

SPORT
Doune vs Breadalbane – SPCU League (17/06/18)
Breadalbane won by 120 runs
Having beaten Breadalbane on the previous three occasions,
Doune were in confident mood. However, on choosing to
bat first, the visitors looked comfortable putting on 66 for
the first wicket. Ally Hughes struck back taking 3 quick
wickets for 29 runs (3 for 29) but a wild celebration for his
3rd caused a match ending injury! The middle order batsman
punished anything loose but Chris Geddes (3 for 17) ensured
a ‘getable’ target of 208 for 9 was reached. Thanks to some
accurate bowling, especially by the Breadalbane youngsters,
whose performances have improved immensely over the last
few years, the Doune batsmen never got going, reaching 88
all out.
Stirling County vs Doune – WSL (27/06/18)
Stirling won by 2 runs
Bowling first, Doune’s openers, Allan Douglas-Munn (2
for 14) and Alasdair Banks (1 for 12) made early inroads.
Stirling like to play their young players in this fixture but we
had some young stars of our own. Alasdair’s fellow juniors,
Fraser Banks (2 for 2) and Ben Cluet (2 for 10), making their
debut for the senior 11, also bowled with great skill doing the
junior coaches, Dheraj Shamoo and Iain MacGregor, proud.
Chris Pearson, another debutant, also bowled well to leave
the hosts on 96 for 9. Doune progressed steadily to the target
but with 3 needed off the last ball, fell just short on 94 for 5.
Gargunnock/Kippen vs Doune – WSL (26/5/18)
Doune won by 13 runs
On a very hot evening in Gargunnock, Doune’s opening
batsman, C Geddes (26) and Caspar Wright (30n.o.), raced
to 53 off just 5 overs. Chris Whitehead (26) and yet another
debutant, Alex Campbell (30 n.o.), kept things going but the
run-rate slowed towards the end, Doune finishing on 144 for
6. Despite a late surge by the opposition, they never really
looked like overhauling the Doune total, finishing on 131 for
6, the pick of the bowlers being Douglas-Munn (2 for 9) and
C Geddes (1 for 9)
Breadalbane vs Doune – SPCU League (17/06/18)
Breadalbane won by 8 wickets
It was yet another hot day, this time in glorious Aberfeldy, so
there was no hesitation in Doune choosing to bat first. After
some early wickets taken by their young bowlers, Grant
Doune Cricket Club
Cordner (64) and Paul Geddes (48n.o.) settled in, putting
on a tremendous 95 run partnership, Doune finishing on a
competitive 211 for 7. With some fine batting, Breadalbane
always looked in control, despite tidy figures from McDonald
(1 for 27), and eased to victory with a couple of overs to
spare.
Doune vs Comrie – SPCU (03/06/18)
Comrie won by 6 wickets
In a match reduced to 30 overs, Doune posted a good score
of 166 for 6, Cordner (53) continuing his fine form supported
well by John Robertson (28n.o.). A productive opening stand
by Comrie was cut short by C Geddes (3 for 18), but despite
a nervy finish, Comrie went on to win in the penultimate
over.
Callander vs Doune – SPCU (29/08/18)
Doune won by 4 runs
Put in to bat at Stirling’s (Callander’s home ground) main
pitch, a score of 200 plus would be needed to put scoreboard
pressure on the hosts. After a bright start the scoring slowed
due to some accurate bowling and wickets falling. McDonald
(53 retired n.o.) joined Jamie Corser (82n.o.) and the scoring
accelerated in the latter overs, Doune finishing on 205 for 3.
Alex Campbell (2 for 30) and Ross McGarvie, another
Doune debutant, opened with a blast of quick-fire bowling,
Ally Schofield doing well behind the stumps, but it was
Douglas-Munn and Hughes that made the breakthrough
with a wicket apiece. Robertson and McDonald kept up the
pressure and with the opening bowlers returning, the run rate
proved too much for Callander, falling 4 runs short.
Old Talbotonians vs Doune – WSL (09/08/18)
Old Talbotonians won by 25 runs
Come and Curl
Some miserly opening bowling by Billy Strange (1 for 7) and
Jason Clarke (1 for 11) was followed by the excellent Banks
brothers, Alasdair taking a wicket with his first ball (1 for 9).
Hughes and Robertson picked up two wickets a piece, Old T
reaching a below par 109 for 9.
Some excellent catching by the away side kept them in the
game and with 26 needed off the last two overs, Corser
perished on 39, Chris Whitehead (20) the only other person
to trouble the scorers.
Details of fixtures etc. at http://doune.play-cricket.com
Jamie Corser
After a long, hot summer, what are you going to do to fill the long, dark nights ahead? Do you fancy taking
up a new hobby? If so, why not give curling a try? Taster sessions and lessons are available at the Peak in
Stirling (see www.trycurling.com for more details) and Doune Curling Club would love to welcome new
members. We are a small friendly club with members ranging in age from 12 to 70+ who have been with
us for two up to 30+ years. Many live in the village of Doune with others living nearby.
Doune Curling Club starts the season on 12 September with a Practice and Warm-up session to which all
members are encouraged to come along and remember what curling is all about (as well as have a good blether, of course!).
We have our first competitive game in the Autumn/Winter league on 19 September.
Val Saville
27

SPORT
Pro-Am Tournament 21/22 July:
Doune Castle Bowling Club
After two days of beautiful weather and fantastic bowling,
the winners of the 2018 Pro-Am were Bryan Stillie and Pat
Martin, who defeated Rae Duncan and Ally MacFarlane
(Doune Castle).
Vice-President Alan Johnstone said: “I would like to thank
the Internationalists and local club members for coming
along for the weekend. Thanks also to the green-keepers,
bar staff, kitchen staff, raffle ticket sellers, all members and
visitors. Our biggest thanks go to our very generous and
loyal sponsors who support this event every year; without
their sponsorship we would be unable to stage this event and
it is greatly appreciated.” Plans are already under way for
next year’s event, with many Internationalists indicating that
they will play.
West Perthshire League and Knockout Competitions:
Doune Castle continue to perform well in the league and
knockout competitions. We are a couple of points away from
securing the league and, at the time of writing, are due to play
our final match.
In the knockout competitions we had representation in many
of the finals. The triples featured two Doune Castle teams:
Alan Johnstone, John Booth and Duncan Kinloch versus
Kenny Murdoch, Dibs Mathieson and Drew Murdoch. We
had representation in the Ladies Singles (Lauren McGowan),
the Gents Singles (Ally Macfarlane and Ally Schofield) and
the Junior Singles (Drew Murdoch). Results to come. All
finals will be played at Comrie, the hosts this year.
Congratulations, Ellie and Pi!
As reported in the last edition of The Bridge 16-year-old
Ellie Bryce from Blair Drummond, riding her horse Pi
(stable name Pi; competition name My Work of Art) took
part in the Frickley Park National Under 18 Eventing
Championships in Yorkshire as a member of the Scottish
team. The excellent news is that Ellie came 11th out
of 80 competitors and Scotland won bronze, coming
third out of eight teams from all over the UK. Eventing
consists of three disciplines: dressage, cross country and
show jumping. Each phase must be completed without
disqualification before a rider can move on to the next
discipline. There were up to ten riders in each team for
this event and the four lowest scores counted for the
final result; Ellie’s was one of them. She had no added
penalties after her dressage test.
Club Competitions:
At the time of writing, we look forward to our annual open
triples competition which has a full entry and our internal
knockout competitions are nearing the closing stages.
We have a further, three friendly matches to play over the
next few weeks and are looking forward to welcoming Alloa
East End and Duthus Bowling Club to Doune together with
heading up to Rattray BC for the first time.
The Charity Invitation triples with a full entry takes place on
Sunday 16 September;
Good luck to all our players; look out for the results in next
month’s Bridge. Whilst best efforts are made to ensure
that the fixtures given are accurate, these can change
for a number of reasons. To be kept up to date with all
the happenings of the club, please like the Doune Castle
Bowling Club Facebook page or visit our website www.
dounecastlebowlingclub.co.uk
Lauren McGowan
Vice President Alan Johnstone (c) with Pro-Am finalists (l-r)
Bryan Stillie, Pat Martin, Ally Macfarlane and Rae Duncan.
Many congratulations, Ellie, for doing so well, especially
as it was the first Championships for you and Pi. More
good news, as we go to press, is that Ellie with her other
horse Charlie (competition name Lacoste) has qualified
for the Scottish Grassroots Championships at Blair
Castle Horse Trials. Best of luck!
Diana Bishop
Champions in the making: Ellie and Pi move
smoothly to the top.
28

SPORT
The action-packed day got under way with 50 mini mudrunners
aged between five and 12 speeding noisily around
a 2km version of the challenge. They were then on hand
to watch and cheer on the waves of participants on the
main course who chose either a 6km or 12km challenge,
encountering 50 obstacles along the way, including scramble
nets, tree climbs, monkey bars, mud slides and river
crossings.
There were representatives from our sponsors Galbraith and
the NFU as well as teams from Savills, the under-18 Stirling
County Rugby team, Home Base Stirling, Bidwells and
Gillespie Macandrew. A special mention should go to Stirling
Healthy Hearts - a fitness group supporting people with heart
disease: these outstanding competitors worked together to
meet every obstacle challenge and crossed the line as a team.
Consultant cardiology nurse Catherine Mondoa commented
afterwards on the massive sense of achievement they all felt
in taking part and meeting the Lanrick Challenge. She said
Lanrick Challenge
On 4 August, some 400 men, women and children aged from five to 80 took part in
the fifth Lanrick Challenge. The event, voted a huge success, raised over £25,000
to be split between two rural life-saving charities, The Sandpiper Trust and
Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA).
“We’ve had a great time and it’s something that none of us
would have done if we hadn’t had heart attacks!”
Event organiser Penny Dickson, co-founder of the Sandpiper
Trust, said: “It has been hard work pulling this together and
we could not have done it without the tremendous support
of our incredible group of volunteer course builders, helpers,
marshals and first aiders. The money raised by the Lanrick
Challengers makes it all worthwhile. It is a chance for
people from all walks of life and levels of fitness to take their
own challenges at their own pace and raise money for two
great causes.” Over the years the event has raised £50,000.
The Scottish Charity Air Ambulance thanked all the event
organisers and participants. Spokesperson Fiona Dennis
said “We are very pleased to be a part of this fun-filled,
wilderness event which has grown successfully over the
past few years and we are so grateful to all competitors who
supported these two very worthwhile charities.”
Penny Dickson
Twelve Healthy Hearts Warriors (the oldest aged 82), led in the picture by Dr Linda McShane, took part in the Lanrick
Challenge, five more acting as volunteers. They described the camaraderie and teamwork involved as ‘totally uplifting’. (For
more pictures, see our back page.)
Callander Ramblers’ Diary
September
Wed12 09:30 Stroll: Walk in the Park, Drymen area (4 miles) Contact 01877 330055
Wed 19 09:30 Stroll: Strathyre Forest (5 miles) Contact 01877 384227
Sat 22 08:30 Ramble: Cochno, Slacks and Loch Humphrey (8.5 miles) Contact 01786-841240
October
Wed 3 09:30 Stroll: Historic Stirling (5 miles) Contact 01877 330444
29

30

Contacting The Bridge
The Bridge is published 10 times a
year and is always in the market for
articles, pictures, letters and ads.
All suggestions are welcome. Items
for publication should normally be
submitted before the 15th of each
month, and be no longer than 750
words.
Please email all contributions to
teithnews@gmail.com. Alternatively,
post or deliver them to The Bridge, c/o
Kilmadock Information Centre, 61-63
Balkerach Street, Doune, FK16 6DF, tel
01786 841250, where there is a box for
all Bridge deposits.
The Bridge is edited by Juliet
McCracken and produced by a team
of volunteers including its founder Ken
Russell.
Visitor Information
Doctor/Nurse
Doune Health Centre, Castlehill
Doctor 01786 841213
Nurse 01786 841256
NHS 24 111
Minor Injury Unit 01786 434000
Woodside Pharmacy
3 The Cross, Doune 01786 841216
Police
Non-Emergencies 101
Emergencies 999
Vet
Struthers and Scott, Units 2-5
Station Wynd, Doune 01786 841304
Doune Post Office 841219
Mon-Fri 9.30am - 12 noon
2.30pm - 5.00pm
Saturday 10.00am - 12 noon
Deanston Post Office 841490
Mon - Fri 9.00am - 12noon
Cashpoints at 52 Main Street, The
Post Office and the Co-op
RBS mobile bank 2.00pm every
Friday
Doune Library
5 Main Street 01786 841732
Monday 2.30pm - 7.00pm
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 9.30am - 12noon and
2.30pm - 5.30pm
Thursday 2.30pm - 7.00pm
Friday Closed
Saturday 10am - 1.00pm
Community website: www.doune.co
INFORMATION & HERITAGE
CENTRE DOUNE
9.30am - 5.00pm Mon-Fri
10.00am - 4.00pm Saturday
11.00am - 3.00pm Sunday
The Centre offers a wide range of
resources and facilities including:
Tourist and local history information
Free local guides, walks leaflets
Maps: Walking, Cycling, Touring
Extensive range of books on Scotland
and on local information and history
Secondhand books
Handmade cards and gifts
Colour and Black and White
Photocopying Service
up to A3 size
Lamination Service
Internet Access
Contact the Centre at:
61-63 Balkerach Street,
Doune, FK16 6DF
Tel 01786 841250
Email: kdtrust@btconnect.com
Church Services
Church of Scotland
43 Balkerach Street
Every Sunday 10.30am
Contact No. 01786 841447
Episcopal Church
St Modoc’s: Sung Eucharist
Every Sunday 9.30am
Rector: Canon Dr. Alison Peden
01877 330488
www.stmodocsdoune.co.uk
R. C. Church
St. Fillan’s: Holy Mass
Every Sunday 9.45am, also
Tuesday and Friday at 10.00am
Priest - Father Jim McCruden
01877 330702
Humanist
Society
of Scotland
for advice and information about
all aspects of humanist
ceremonies, please contact:
Mary Wallace
T: 01786 842239
M: 07968 666432
E: mary.wallace@
humanism.scot
www.humanism.scot
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friends, relatives or a neighbour.
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Lanrick Challenge Mudlarks
Photos courtesy of Bryan Robertson
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