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Country’s Top Nurse Hails Dumfries and Galloway’s NHS staff

SCOTLAND’S Interim Chief Nursing Officer commended the positive, confident and pro-active approach of NHS Dumfries and Galloway nurses during a visit to the region.

Anne Armstrong engaged with nursing staff, students, and senior leaders across the region when she visited on Monday December 9, gaining firsthand insights into the unique challenges and innovations shaping local healthcare delivery.

NHS Dumfries and Galloway’s Director of Nursing Mark Kelly said: “We were delighted to welcome the Interim Chief Nursing Officer on Monday, and to showcase the incredible work of our nursing teams.
“Her visit provided an invaluable opportunity to share insights from our staff and highlight the innovative approaches we’ve implemented to address the needs of our population.”
Mr Kelly added that: “Anne observed she is very keen that nurses, who are the largest part of our local NHS workforce, are influential voices in the planning and executing of future healthcare services.”

Ms Armstrong’s day began with a Community Nursing ‘marketplace,’ where she met with several community nurses and learned about Advanced Practice Nursing, Cottage Hospitals, Clinical Nurse Specialists, and Community Nursing initiatives.

She then visited Ward 1 at Mountainhall Treatment Centre (MHTC), before visiting Midpark Hospital and the University of the West of Scotland campus, engaging directly with students and staff.

The visit continued with a meeting with NHS Dumfries and Galloway Chief Executive Julie White and directors, followed by a trip to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary (DGRI). There, she met senior nursing staff and newly qualified practitioners, and toured the Emergency Department and Acute Medical Unit.

Reflecting on her visit, Ms Armstrong said: “Thank you to you and your team for enabling my visit. It was a joy to meet colleagues and to learn from them what works well and what could be better.
“It’s given me food for thought from a national policy perspective as we start to implement the outputs from the Nursing and Midwifery Taskforce, as well as the development of broader nursing policy areas.”
She added: “I was struck by the positivity of the team, despite all of the challenges, and how comfortable everyone felt in putting forward their views to further shape and improve practice and outcomes for people.”
Mark Kelly, Director of Nursing for NHS Dumfries and Galloway described the visit as ‘hugely positive’.
He said: “My thanks go to Anne for spending a whole day with our staff in NHS Dumfries and Galloway – I know they relished the opportunity to discuss with her their work, and the current nursing challenges and opportunities. The feedback we received is a testament to the dedication and hard work of all of our staff, who consistently go above and beyond to deliver excellent care.
“The visit reflected NHS Dumfries and Galloway’s focus on delivering patient-centred care, and on fostering an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.”

 

Crocketford Company To Store Thousands Of Tonnes Of CO₂ In Depleted Oil Field

Crocketford based Carbon Removers, a trailblazing Dumfries and Galloway ClimateTech business, announced a landmark agreement on December 10th to permanently sequester 50,000 tonnes of CO₂ per year in a depleted oil field, 1,800 metres beneath the North Sea seabed. This partnership is part of the EU’s first operational CO₂ storage facility, Project Greensand Future, operated by INEOS.

 

Greensand Future is a critical initiative designed to safely capture and store up to 400,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually by 2025, with the capacity to scale up to 8 million tonnes per year in the future.
Richard Nimmons, CEO of The Carbon Removers, stated:

 

“The North Sea holds enormous potential to help Europe achieve its Net Zero goals. Partnering with Greensand Future aligns perfectly with our mission to provide practical, scalable solutions to carbon removal today, not tomorrow. We can now offer much larger volumes of permanent carbon removal of the highest quality to our expanding international customer base.”

 

This agreement significantly enhances The Carbon Removers’ ability to deliver high-quality, permanent carbon removal credits, supporting companies across Europe in meeting decarbonisation targets and accelerating progress toward a Net Zero future.

 

The announcement follows an inspiring visit by Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, to The Carbon Removers’ Dumfries facility on December 9th. Swinney remarked:

 

“It is inspiring to see companies like The Carbon Removers leading the way in delivering permanent carbon solutions. By focusing on carbon removal, they are helping Scotland tackle the climate crisis while creating opportunities for future generations.”

 

About The Carbon Removers

 

The Carbon Removers, founded by brothers Ed and Richard Nimmons, is a Scotland-based leader in engineered carbon removal. Specialising in biogenic carbon, the company provides permanent CO₂ storage solutions through advanced mineralisation technologies and geological sequestration. Recent milestones include a multiyear carbon credit offtake agreement with British Airways and now a breakthrough deal for North Sea carbon storage.

 

For more information, visit: www.thecarbonremovers.com

 

About Project Greensand Future

 

Greensand Future, operated by INEOS in collaboration with Harbour Energy and Nordsøfonden, is the EU’s inaugural operational CO₂ storage facility. Its initial phase will capture CO₂ from Danish biomethane production, liquefy it for transport to the port of Esbjerg, and ship it to the Nini field in the Danish North Sea for permanent storage. The European Commission has identified such projects as essential to achieving its target of 250 million tonnes of CO₂ storage capacity by 2040 under the Paris Agreement.

 

The project’s safety and permanence have been independently verified by DNV, a global leader in risk and technical assurance services.

 

For additional information about Project Greensand Future, visit: www.projectgreensand.com

Rootin Tootin Newton Stick The Boot In

Rootin Tootin Newton Stick The Boot In

The Stewartry Men’s 1XV ran out at Greenlaw on Saturday for the final time in 2024 as they hosted local rivals Newton Stewart in the National League Cup.

After a tightly-contested game in front of the Ladies Day crowd, the National 2 side took the win 29-24 to round off the year with a win away from home.

It took close to 25 minutes for the first try of the game to come as some soft defence from
Stewartry allowed Newton Stewart the chance to draw first blood.

From there, the visitors took control of the first half and looked to be running away with it come the break.

Despite the two-league difference, however, Stewartry then began to play their game and were rewarded with a try after scrumhalf Archie Nicolson scooped the ball up from a few metres out to dot down and pull the home team back into the match.

Winger Alex Moffat brilliantly finished off a well-worked team move out wide before Nicolson grabbed another to really put the pressure on Newton and set up a grand-stand finish.

With only a few minutes to go, Stewartry were just one score behind after two successful
conversions and a penalty from fullback Andrew Picken. Some ill-discipline from NS put
Stewartry in a good position to snatch a late victory but the Bladnoch defence held strong to seal the Sandy Irvine Cup.

Both sides now enjoy a break over the Christmas period before returning to league action in January. Stewartry begins the New Year with two away games on the bounce, first to
Dunfermline and then to Linlithgow.

Bees Feel The Sharks Bite In Double Header Weekend

BEES FEEL THE SHARKS BITE IN DOUBLE HEADER WEEKEND

Solway Sharks vs Berkshire Bees 14.12.24

The Dynamic property services Solway Sharks returned back to home ice after a weekend of road games, claiming an emphatic 9-3 goal-fest win over the Berkshire Bees, despite being 2 goals behind in the opening minutes of the game, thanks to a 5-goal performance from Canadian import #43 Nolan Gardiner.

The Sharks lined up with 17+2 as #9 Mason Alderson, #21 Torran Anderson and #68 Callum Boyd all returned back into the squad. Meanwhile, Kieran Hair remained on the injury list whilst #16 Bailey Thomson, #17 Joe Lynch and #55 Owen Rae all iced with their respective 2-way teams. Bees travelled with short numbers of 11+2 giving them an uphill battle from the offset. Netminder #33 Jordan Marr was given the start for Solway whilst #45 Dean Skinns guarded the pipes for Berkshire.

1st period –

Sharks won the initial face-off and controlled the tempo of play early but were pressurised by the Bees. Confusion on the blue line proved costly for Solway as #9 Vanya Antonov fired wide past Marr’s blocker on a breakaway to open the scoring at 5minutes. Sharks then handed Bees a chance to double their lead as #53 Kian Shevlin sat for tripping at 6:34. Seconds later, #19 Will Stead slotted the puck across the line to give Berkshire an early 2-goal advantage at 6:48.

However, Solway answered back quickly through #43 Nolan Gardiner who fired top corner to send the bears flying in Dumfries at 7:36. Nothing could stop Nolan Gardiner as he roofed a one-timer past Skinns just 28 seconds later to equalise after a feed from #5 Olivier Arseneau. Skipper #10 Liam Stenton carried the puck through the zone following the face-off and dragged the puck past the Bees defence to fire a 3rd for Solway at 8:22 – shifting the score in favour to Sharks in just 46 seconds.

The hosts continued to dominate the opening period as the Bees started to tire, but Skinns posted the stops to keep the Sharks at bay momentarily. Sharks doubled their lead over the Bees after #88 Kyle Carruth claimed his 1st goal of the regular season with a one-timer strike via #92 Caly Robertson at 15:04. Solway maintained possession, allowing #68 Callum Boyd to claim a breakaway goal at 17:02 on his return back into the squad, seeing the hosts carry a comfortable 5-2 lead into the middle frame.

2nd period –

Sharks returned for the 2nd period and immediately added a further marker to their tally at 20:46 as #25 Connor Henderson went 5-hole on Skinns to claim his first goal of the season, assisted by #22 John Dunbar. The constant offensive pressure from Solway forced #23 Dominik Gabaj to give up a hooking penalty at 26:43 but a strong PK unit denied Solway on the man advantage.

The hat-trick goal for #43 Nolan Gardiner came at 30:31, rifling a shot past Skinns after just breaking into the zone from the left wing, putting Solway 5 goals clear. However, #19 Will Stead claimed his 2nd of the evening after he slotted the puck into the bottom corner past Marr to reduce the deficit, assisted by #21 Marcel Balaz at 30:52.

Solway returned to the penalty kill at 36:06 as #88 Kyle Carruth was called for slashing, but this was cancelled out at 37:15 after the Bees bench received an unsportsmanlike conduct call. Both sides returned to full strength after defensive plays prevented any additions to the scoreline. The Bees were awarded a chance to add to their tally at 39:46 as #9 Vanya Antonov received a penalty shot, yet Marr made the blocker save to deny the visitors.

3rd period –

Sharks controlled the pace of play from the initial face-off in the final frame, resulting in Berkshire giving up a call at 42:43 on Marcel Balaz for tripping in an attempt to deny Alderson. Seconds later, #43 Nolan Gardiner claimed his 4th of the evening after dragging the puck wide of Skinns on 43 minutes. Sharks returned the favour as #9 Mason Alderson sat 2 minutes for roughing at 45:17, but Bees failed to punish the hosts. However, within the same minute, #9 Alderson returned to the box for boarding, but Solway again killed the infraction.

As the game approached the final 10 minutes of play, #43 Nolan Gardiner fired his 5th goal bar-down past Skinns at 50:55, assisted by #22 John Dunbar and #6 Stuart Kerr to claim his 50th point this season and additionally a natural hat-trick. Bees were given a prolonged powerplay opportunity at 51:30 after #88 Kyle Carruth was called for roughing and unsportsmanlike conduct. Another strong defensive performance for the Sharks saw off the double-minor penalties allowing Solway to round off a dominating display with a 9-3 win.

MVPs were awarded to Solway’s #43 after his 5 goals, seeing him return to the top of the NIHL leader board. Meanwhile, #19 Will Stead received the title for Berkshire following his brace.

STATS –

Solway Sharks: Nolan Gardiner 5+0, Connor Henderson 1+1, Liam Stenton 1+0, Kyle Carruth 1+0, Callum Boyd 1+0, John Dunbar 0+4, Liam Danskin 0+2, Olivier Arseneau 0+2, Joey Coulter 0+1, Caly Robertson 0+1, Jordan Marr 0+1, Stuart Kerr 0+1

Berkshire Bees: Will Stead 2+0, Vanya Antonov 1+0, Marcel Baláž 0+2, Dominik Gabaj 0+2

 

 

 

Solway Sharks vs Berkshire Bees 15.12.24

 

The Dynamic property services Solway Sharks completed their double header weekend in the Shark Tank against the Berkshire Bees with a 6-3 win to secure a 4-point weekend, pushing them 4 points clear of Telford Tigers.

Solway lined up with a squad of 18+2, as #55 Owen Rae iced his first game after injury for the Sharks, alongside fellow 2-way forward #16 Bailey Thomson. Meanwhile, #53 Kian Shevlin and #17 Joe Lynch were unavailable, and #15 Kieran Hair still remained out through injury. Bees retained the same depleted squad from the previous evening and opted for netminder #45 Dean Skinns once again, whilst #30 Calum Hepburn started his 3rd game of the season for Solway.

 

1st period –

 

Solway immediately looked to continue their dominating performance over the Bees from the previous evening after the initial puck drop through the first line of Dunbar, Gardiner and Henderson. However, it was #92 Caly Robertson who opened the scoring at 6:50 with a tight angled shot, assisted by #63 Joe Coulter. The Bees searched for a way to quickly answer back but were denied after a series of stops by #30 Calum Hepburn.

 

Sharks doubled their lead at 12:43 after #88 Kyle Carruth claimed his 2nd goal of the weekend with a one-timer from point, following the feed from #9 Mason Alderson. The hosts maintained momentum, allowing #43 Nolan Gardiner to extend the lead at 15:28 with a tip from #49 Liam Danskin’s blue line strike.

 

Berkshire worked their chances well following the 3rd goal, allowing #19 Will Stead to tip the puck high over Hepburn after #15 Ty Cathcart’s initial shot. Solway put their PK unit to use first after #12 Kell Beattie was called for holding at 19:03, but the score remained 3-1 in favour to Solway after the opening 20 minutes.

 

2nd period –

 

Sharks successfully killed off the remainder of Beattie’s penalty and quickly looked to add to their tally, but the Bees defence kept the offence at bay momentarily. A pressurising play from the 2nd line resulted in #14 Lewis Young firing a one-timer over Skinns following the set-up by #9 Mason Alderson at 26:23. Bees then gave away an opportunity for Sharks to claim a 2nd goal in quick succession as #19 Will Stead sat for slashing at 27:21 but Skinns made the stops.

 

The hosts continued to dominate puck possession, but Berkshire held strong to deny Solway’s efforts. A shift in momentum saw #19 Will Stead fire from point to reduce the deficit back to 2 at 38:42, assisted by fellow import #9 Vanya Antonov which posted the score at 4-2 after 40 minutes of play.

 

3rd period –

 

Solway returned for the final frame with a point to prove, seeing #43 Nolan Gardiner slot home the rebound for Sharks, following the initial strike from #22 Dunbar just 12 seconds into the period to reclaim a 3-goal lead. Berkshire created multiple chances of their own, but Hepburn matched their efforts to retain Solway’s current lead. Canadian import #43 Nolan Gardiner claimed his 2nd hat-trick of the weekend after volleying his initial rebound past Skinns from close range at 48:02, assisted by #12 Kell Beattie.

Berkshire’s sole scorer #19 Will Stead was called for hooking at 50:42 which the visitors managed to kill off and were then returned the favour as #16 Bailey Thomson received a tripping call at 54:59. Bees punished the Sharks for their slip in discipline as Stead slotted his hat-trick goal past Hepburn on the PP at 55:36. Solway were eager to cancel out the late marker from Berkshire yet the final buzzer sounded a 6-3 victory for the hosts, resulting in a 4 point weekend for the Sharks.

 

MVPs were awarded to the same players as the evening prior – #43 Nolan Gardiner and #19 Will Stead after they both contributed hat-tricks to their respective sides.

 

STATS –

 

Solway Sharks: Nolan Gardiner 3+0, Caly Robertson 1+0, Kyle Carruth 1+0, Lewis Young 1+0, John Dunbar 0+3, Mason Alderson 0+2, Kell Beattie 0+2, Joe Coulter 0+1, Liam Danskin 0+1, Olivier Arseneau 0+1

 

Berkshire Bees: Will Stead 3+0, Vanya Antonov 0+2, Ty Cathcart 0+1, Marcel Balaz 0+1, Dominik Gabaj 0+1

 

 

Canadian import forward, Nolan Gardiner had this to say regarding the weekends results,

 

“It was great to get a four-point weekend. The fans and atmosphere were great at the Shark Tank. We will look to carry this momentum into next weekend and continue climbing up the table.”

 

The Dynamic Property Services-sponsored Solway Sharks return to home ice on Saturday, December 21st, as they take on the Hull Seahawks. This exciting match will see the Sharks sporting their special Christmas jerseys, adding a festive touch to the action.

 

After the game, fans will have the opportunity to take home one of these unique jerseys during a live auction in Sharky’s Bar. Bidding is already open—simply email the club at [email protected] to place your bid. In a meaningful gesture, all proceeds from #49 Liam Danskin’s jersey will be donated to Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland, so don’t miss the chance to contribute to this important cause. Doors open at 5:30 PM, with face-off set for 7:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased online at sharksihc.com/tickets or in person at the Dumfries Ice Bowl. We can’t wait to see you there—come out, cheer on the Sharks, and enjoy a fantastic evening of hockey and holiday fun!

 

Penpont & Thornhill on the (Traffic Fee) Path to Success with new £420,000 Funding Award

Penpont and Thornhill on the (traffic-free) Path to Success with new £420,000 Funding Award

SWestrans is delighted to announce that £420,000 has been secured from Transport Scotland to complete a further phase of a popular path linking the two Nithsdale villages of Penpont and Thornhill.

Construction of the path has been a multi-stage project, with the first phase linking Penpont to the Drumlanrig Castle access road completed in December 2023.

The concept of a path for use by people walking, wheeling or cycling originated with local community group Kier, Penpont and Tynron Development Trust (KPTDT), which approached SWestrans in 2018 seeking advice on accessing the funding required to deliver the project.
With support from SWestrans, the community received funding from Sustrans’ Places for Everyone fund, allowing them to deliver the first phase of the path project (Phase 1a).

When Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop announced changes to the national funding model for active travel in October 2023, meaning that £10 million of funding became available through the Tier 2 Active Travel Infrastructure Fund, SWestrans was able to secure £420,000 to fund the next part of the project.

This new £420,000 grant award will enable a further 450 metres of shared use tarmac path to be constructed as Phase 1b of the project, taking it to the bridge over the River Nith. Work is expected to take place between January and the end of March 2025.

Construction of approximately 500 metres beyond the bridge will complete the off-road link to Thornhill, providing more opportunities for local residents and visitors to choose to switch some car journeys to active travel. This has potential to lead to improved health and wellbeing as well as air quality for the community. Dumfries and Galloway Council and SWestrans are actively working on securing funding to complete the path.

SWestrans Chair John Campbell said: “It’s wonderful news that this fantastic path is closer to completion. KPTDT has shown what can be achieved when a community works together, and the success of the project is testament to their hard work and determination.
“This path creates a functional link between local centres, as identified in Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Active Travel Strategy 2, which prioritises increasing the numbers of people using human-powered transport as a vital part of the journey towards Net Zero for the region. It is also highlighted in the Regional Economic Partnership’s Cycling Partnership Strategy as an example of a success story, which demonstrates the economic benefit that this path will have for the area.”
KPTDT Chair Maureen Halkett said: “We are delighted that the next phase of the Penpont to Thornhill active travel path is underway and are very grateful to SWestrans, Transport Scotland, Places for Everyone (Sustrans), Buccleuch Estates Ltd and engineering contractor Transport Planning and Engineering for making this possible.
“The first three kilometres of the path are in constant use by dog walkers, joggers, wheelers and some cycle commuters going to Thornhill, as it replaces much of the on-road route, even before the full path is completed. Our Stroll in the Park initiative to encourage enhanced mobility and socialising has also been a big hit.
“A wheelchair user from the community has reported that this is the first time she has been able to do a circuitous route to and from home for pleasure, and a single parent has given the path a heartfelt endorsement by committing to cycling for work, shopping and leisure journeys where possible; so far this year she has not needed to use the bus at all.”
Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop said:
“I am very pleased that funding from the Scottish Government Active Travel Infrastructure Fund has been awarded to SWestrans to complete this important active travel route between Penpont and Thornhill.
“The Active Travel Infrastructure Fund is helping projects throughout Scotland to make walking, wheeling and cycling easier than before.
“Projects such as this one are helping people leave their cars at home and to choose healthier and greener transport options. Over £155m has already been invested this year and through the Draft Budget for 2025-26, we intend to invest over £188m in further active and sustainable travel projects to take forward more transformative walking, wheeling and cycling projects.”

 

 

Wheatley Brings Christmas Cheer To Dumfries With Bike Giveaway

Wheatley brings Christmas cheer to Dumfries with bike giveaway

Young people across Dumfries will receive bikes for Christmas thanks to the region’s largest social landlord.

Working in partnership with Summerhill Community Centre, Wheatley Homes South has announced a festive initiative to support youngsters in the area.

A total of 50 new bikes, along with helmets, lights and locks will be gifted to children and young people, many of whom are Wheatley residents thanks to funding from Cycle Scotland.

The initiative will promote active lifestyles, improve access to local amenities, and enhance the overall well-being of the community, as well as giving young people a special gift at Christmas time.

To further support the initiative, Wheatley has also provided Summerhill Centre with a bike shelter, allowing bikes to be securely stored when attending activities.

Alex Lamb, Managing Director of Wheatley Homes South, said: “We are thrilled to be able to bring this festive cheer to the young people of Dumfries.
“We are grateful to be working in partnership with Summerhill Community Centre and the opportunity to make a positive impact.
“By providing bikes, we hope to empower them to explore their surroundings, stay active, and connected within the community.”
Brain Lewington, Bike Project Co-ordinator at the Summerhill Community Centre, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Wheatley Homes South and Cycle Scotland for their generous support, and our local G&G Cycle Centre in Dumfries.
“This amazing initiative will undoubtedly bring excitement and joy to our local children and young people, all contributing to a healthier and happier community. We look forward to seeing the positive impact made by these new bikes and the festive cheer it will bring to the many families who will be waking up on Christmas Day to find Santa has left them their very own new bike. These memories will last forever and bring new adventures and opportunities for each young person.”

A community-led regeneration is also underway in Summerhill, with residents and local people sharing their views on the future of the area.

Wheatley Homes South is part of Wheatley Group, Scotland’s leading housing, care, and property-management group.

Scottish Book Trust Launches ‘Januread’: A New Year’s Challenge to Rediscover the Joy of Reading

As the New Year approaches, Scottish Book Trust is launching Januread, an interactive, four-week journey during January designed to inspire readers to make 2025 their year of books.

 

Much like a “Couch to 5K” programme, Januread offers practical tips, expert advice, and book recommendations to help lapsed readers and book lovers alike build a consistent reading habit. Subscribers will also find out about the many benefits that reading for pleasure brings and its positive impacts on daily lives from relieving stress and feelings of isolation to getting a better night’s sleep.

 

Januread subscribers will embark on a four-week journey through an engaging newsletter series led by “The Reading Coach.” With reading tips, motivational articles, and a supportive community, Januread is here to help readers kickstart their literary adventures for the year ahead.

 

“Books have the power to transform lives, offering solace, escape, and joy,” says Marc Lambert, CEO at Scottish Book Trust. “With Januread, we want to make reading accessible, inspiring, and fun. Whether you’ve always been an avid reader or struggle to make time to read, this opportunity is for everyone this January.”

 

What to Expect from Januread:

 

Subscribers will receive four newsletters over January 2025, each featuring:

  • Words of encouragement: Practical advice from “The Reading Coach” to foster reading habits.
  • Curated recommendations: Tips on finding books that match different tastes.
  • Community insights: Opportunities to share and explore what others in the Januread community are reading.
  • Exclusive content: Access to articles and book lists designed to help participants reignite their love of reading.

 

 

How to Join:

 

Signing up is simple. Visit Scottish Book Trust  to register and start your Januread journey. As an added incentive, subscribers will be entered into a prize draw to win a Scottish Book Trust book subscription.

 

Why Januread?

 

Scottish Book Trust created Januread to build a community of readers, reconnecting people with the benefits of books. Beyond the joy of reading, research shows that books can boost mental health, improve focus, and provide affordable entertainment.

 

Join Us in the New Year:

 

Make 2025 your year of reading. Sign up for Januread today and start a journey that will inspire, connect, and uplift.

Award Winner Lee Is An Inspiration To Students

Award-winner Lee is an inspiration to students

Dumfries and Galloway College (DGC) is thrilled to announce that Lee Bass has been honoured with the Crichton Foundation Award in recognition of his exceptional achievements and contributions to the college community.

The Crichton Foundation Award, supported by the Crichton Trust, is a distinguished accolade presented annually to a student who has demonstrated outstanding academic performance, leadership and a commitment to personal growth.

A hard-working and accomplished student, his exemplary dedication to his studies and his active engagement within the college made him a standout candidate for this year’s award.

Lee’s journey at DGC began in 2012 after leaving the army and starting a family. His HNC in Computing had to be put on hold due to illness, but he returned to the college to gain an HND in Coaching in Developing Sport and then completed a bachelor’s degree in Sport Development.

Fast forward to 2022, and Lee enrolled on to DGC’s Cyber Security HNC, achieving an A on his Graded Unit Exam, and subsequently progressing on to a Cyber Security HND. He is now attending the University of West of Scotland at Dumfries studying for his BEng (Hons) in Cyber Security.

His time at DGC has been marked by his unwavering commitment to achieving excellence. Beyond his academic accomplishments, he has been a positive influence on his fellow students, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment that embodies the college’s ethos of collaboration and mutual respect.

The Crichton Foundation, which has been a steadfast supporter of education in the region, created this award to celebrate students who demonstrate a passion for learning and a drive to make meaningful contributions to their community.

Lee’s remarkable achievements reflect the transformative impact of the foundation’s support and the high standard of education provided at Dumfries and Galloway College.

Joanna Campbell, Principal and CEO, Dumfries and Galloway College, said: “We are immensely proud of Lee for receiving this well-deserved recognition.
“As Lee embarks on the next chapter of his journey, Dumfries and Galloway College extends its warmest congratulations and heartfelt wishes for his continued success. His achievement stands as a source of inspiration for current and future students, showcasing the heights that can be reached through hard work and dedication.
“The Crichton Foundation Award celebrates individuals who not only excel academically, but also embody the values of perseverance, resilience and community spirit. Lee has set a shining example for his peers, and we are delighted to celebrate his success.”

Old Luce Christmas Celebrations

Old Luce Christmas Celebrations

There was plenty of excitement and lots of happy faces across all ages when residents of Old Luce gathered together in the spirit of Christmas recently at Glenluce and Dunragit, officially launching the Festive season in each village.

 

Glenluce Primary School held their most successful Christmas Fayre to date at Glenluce Public Hall, raising welcome funds in their Christmas raffle, which offered the chance to win a variety of fabulous prizes kindly donated by local businesses. Colourful festive stalls overflowed inside the Hall with Christmas gift and decoration ideas galore, with popcorn and candy floss to tantalise the tastebuds.

 

As darkness fell, Glenluce village burst into vibrant life as the school students performed and sang a trio of entertaining songs, before the Christmas tree and other lights were officially switched on at the Village Square, Public Hall and along Main Street. Many residents then completed a day of celebration by browsing the shelves and visiting Santa at the grand opening of Glenluce’s newest business, SIRTN Toys, in unit 1 at Ballingclach Industrial Estate (just off the A75). SIRTN are the official Scottish distributor for Mattel. The Trust are delighted to welcome this new family shopfront business, and Polly Pocket and friends, to Glenluce.

 

Dunragit enjoyed their Christmas celebrations the following day at their brand-new Community Hub building on Orchard Road. Along with a visit from Santa to excite the little ones, residents were treated to their first community celebration inside the sparkling new building.

 

As darkness fell, Dunragit’s Christmas lights were switched on all across the village. A delightful community evening was shared in the festive spirit with all in attendance over the moon at being able to celebrate together this year for the very first time in their new Community Hub. The Trust thanks the Coastal Benefit Fund and Old Luce Community Fund for allowing us to bring this community space to fruition.

 

Old Luce Community Council further enhanced a warm and welcoming atmosphere at both events with hot tea and coffee, mulled wine, mince pies and other sweet treats.

 

“It’s heart-warming every year to see so many people of all ages gathering together across Old Luce and sharing festive celebrations in our communities while supporting local businesses, schools and community groups,” said Old Luce Development Trust Chair Mike Lane.
“Seeing our villages lighting up at this time of year always brings joy to residents and visitors. We’re even more excited this year to have brought to life a long-held dream to provide a Community Hub for Dunragit and to see this welcoming building decorated and bright in time for Christmas.
The Trust wishes everyone a safe and Happy Christmas with their loved ones and we look forward to a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year ahead for all.”

5 People Taken to Hospital after A75 Car Crash

5 People Taken to Hospital after A75 Car Crash

Road policing officers are appealing for information following a two-vehicle crash on the A75 at Gretna.

The crash happened around 11.10am on Monday, 16 December, 2024 at the junction with the B721, involving a black Peugeot 3008 and a white Ford Transit van.

An 83-year-old man and a 77-year-old man were taken to hospital with serious injuries. Three further men, aged 77, 60, and 31, were taken to hospital as a precaution.

The road was closed for around nine hours and reopened around 8pm.

Sergeant Colin Ramage said: “Enquiries are ongoing and we are appealing to anyone who witnessed the crash to contact us.
“We also ask anyone driving in the area at the time with dashcam footage to come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference 1097 of 16 December, 2024.

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