Visit Challoch for a ‘Pressing’ Experience! – Doors Open Weekend 2-3rd September

Aug 18, 2023

Visitors to All Saints during the first September weekend will have the chance to see, and taste, freshly produced apple juice as part of this year’s Doors Open ‘’Living Heritage’ theme.

A traditional hand-operated scratter and apple press will be just one of the items on display at the church to celebrate this annual weekend which has something to appeal to everyone.

Demonstrations will also be taking place on a spinning wheel by members of Wigtownshire Guild of Weavers Spinners and Dyers . In addition a video of church will feature members describing their experiences of working on the detailed commemorative textile panel they made to celebrate the church’s 150th anniversary November.

A new book on Challoch’s War Heroes is being launched at the event as a tribute to those who lost their lives in both World Wars. The nine war graves have been marked by a red stone to enable visitors to clearly identify the graves; while members of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission will be on hand on Sunday to explain their role in caring for gravestones of the war dead. Family historians can also revel in exploring the original birth, marriage and burial registers dating back to the 19th century.

Plantaholics will be able to satisfy their passion by visiting the plant stall as well as enjoy the colourful floral displays throughout the church on a natural theme. A self-guided tour of the church and a new display on Living Heritage will be available and volunteers will be on hand to answer any questions.. Visitors to the church on Saturday afternoon will also be serenaded by musicians on the organ, violin, and Celtic harp.

Last, but certainly not least, visitors can enjoy ‘tea with the Vicar’ in the refreshment marquee as Reverend Dawn Matthew will be on hand throughout the event.

She said: “We are really looking forward to welcoming visitors old and new to All Saints over the weekend. This is the third year All Saints has taken part in Doors Open and there will be plenty to see and enjoy including some family activities based around the church and its grounds to tie in with our eco-friendly approach..”

Entry to All Saints and displays and demonstrations are free. The opening times are Saturday 2nd September, 11am-4pm, and Sunday 3rd September, 12 noon – 4pm (following the morning service at 10.30am to which all are welcome). There is free car parking and disabled access and toilet block. More information about All Saints is available from http://www.allsaintschalloch.co.uk or email Lesley Miller at [email protected]

All Saints will also be holding a talk on The Ancient Art of Stained Glass on 14th September as part of Scottish Archaeology Month – details to follow.

Doors Open is organised by the Scottish Civic Trust, enabling everyone to enjoy entry to some of the country’s most interesting buildings free of charge. More information, including a list of the venues, is available from http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk

Conference Gains Momentum As Partners Join Forces To Support Unpaid Carers

Aug 18, 2023

Left to Right: Gordon Williamson – Carer Support Worker, Change Mental Health, Laura Hough – Business Support, CTC, Andrew Forsyth – Family Wellbeing Worker, Quarriers, Fiona Gleghorn – Team Lead, CTC, Claudine Brindle – Chief Officer, Dumfries Carers Centre, Cheryl Murray – Unpaid Carer Moving and Handling Lead, CTC, Larel Currie – Commissioning Officer, Health and Social Care Partnership, Ian Seymour – General Manager, CTC and Euan MacLean – Locality Manager, Change Mental Health. Photo Credit Mike Bolam

With the number of unpaid carers in our communities continuing to increase, local care and support organisations are getting behind a new conference being organised in Dumfries and Galloway to support the health and wellbeing of unpaid carers.

The D&G Unpaid Carers Conference will take place at Easterbrook Hall in Dumfries on Tuesday 10 October 2023 and is open to unpaid carers, support organisations and anyone else who is interested in supporting unpaid carers.

Register Here for Free

The team from Care Training and Consultancy CIC (CTC) are the driving force behind the conference, but they recognise that a partnership approach is essential if they want to maximise the impact of the conference and the benefits for unpaid carers.

Ian Seymour, General Manager at CTC is only too aware of the increasing number of unpaid carers and the impact this can have on their health and wellbeing. Ian said: “A growing number of us are taking on caring responsibilities for our relatives, friends and neighbours but there is quite often a lack of awareness around the roles and responsibilities of an unpaid carer and limited awareness of the support that is available to them. Quite often friends and relatives do not see themselves as unpaid carers or recognise the toll this can take on their own health, so at CTC we are on a journey to work with other organisations and services to identify, support and empower unpaid carers with the primary aim of protecting and improving their health and wellbeing, as well as those they care for.”

Ian added: The D&G Unpaid Carers Conference in October is the first of its kind in Dumfries and Galloway and is just one of the many initiatives we are rolling out at CTC to help us on this journey to support unpaid carers. I am encouraged by the initial interest received from local organisations and unpaid carers. I hope that by bringing unpaid carers and support organisations together we will leave with a greater understanding of the experiences and support needs of unpaid carers and what we can do to support their health and wellbeing while they carry out this important role as an unpaid carer. The conference is also an opportunity to share good practice, celebrate the positive work that already happens in Dumfries and Galloway and collectively influence the support that is available to unpaid carers and for those who may become an unpaid carer in the future.”

Are you an unpaid carer? Are you interested in supporting unpaid carers?

If you are an unpaid carer or are interested in supporting unpaid carers, you are invited to attend the D&G Unpaid Carers Conference at Easterbrook Hall at The Crichton in Dumfries on Tuesday 10 th October from 9.30am – 4pm.

The conference is free, but registration is essential. Lunch will be provided.

Where possible, transport to and from the conference can be arranged and a sitting service will be available to enable unpaid carers to attend the conference. The conference will include speakers, workshops and information stalls.

To find out more or to book your place, please visit https://caretrain.co.uk/unpaidcarers/conference Alternatively, please call 01387 249111 or email: [email protected]

Pay Offer To Junior Doctors Accepted

Aug 16, 2023

junior dr BMA — Image credit - https://www.bma.org.uk/

A record 12.4% pay increase for junior doctors and dentists in training for 2023–24 has been accepted British Medical Association (BMA) Scotland members.

Together with the pay raise of 4.5% awarded in 2022–23, this amounts to a total increase of 17.5% over two years.

The deal also includes a commitment to future years pay, contract and pay bargaining modernisation and it brings to an end the threat of industrial action.

Health Secretary Michael Matheson said:

“I am very pleased that BMA members have overwhelmingly voted to accept this record pay deal for Junior Doctors. This is the single biggest investment in Junior Doctor pay since devolution, and maintains our commitment to make Scotland the best place in the UK for Junior Doctors to work and train.

“Due to the meaningful engagement we have had with trade unions, we have avoided any industrial action in Scotland – the only part of the UK to avoid NHS strikes.

“We will now implement this pay uplift, and will work with BMA to take forward the other aspects of the deal including contract and pay bargaining reform.”

Background

This pay deal represents a £61.3 million investment in Junior Doctor pay – the largest in the last 20 years and the best offer in the UK – and means a doctor at the beginning of their career would receive a salary increase of £3,429 in 2023–24. For those at the end of their training the rise would be £7,111 over the same period.

Dumfries & Galloway Extreme E Hydro X Prix Brought Over £30 Million Boost To Scotland

Aug 16, 2023

DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY EXTREME E HYDRO X PRIX BROUGHT OVER £30 MILLION BOOST TO SCOTLAND — (Photo by Charly Lopez / LAT Images)

YouGov Sport has published its Economic Impact Study for Extreme E’s Hydro X Prix held in Dumfries and Galloway back in May, which has revealed the championship’s positive financial impact on the area.

The Economic Impact Study shows that the series’ Hydro X Prix contributed a £31.06m total economic boost to Scotland. Extreme E raced in the former open-cast Glenmuckloch mine in Dumfries and Galloway. The former coal mine is to be transformed into a Pumped Storage Hydropower (PSH) plant and wind farm, aligned with the championship’s focus on renewable energy solutions.

The YouGov Sport report measures the economic impact that the Extreme E race contributed to Scotland across all forms of spending. It covers analysis of attendee and organisational spend across the Extreme E race in Scotland, combined with market specific economic factors, tourism and spending factors for the country.

Ali Russell, Managing Director at Extreme E, said: “The YouGov Sport Report Economic Impact Study for the Hydro X Prix illustrates the positive financial impact an Extreme E race has had on Scotland, particular to the local economy, which is very satisfying.

“We are hugely proud that the Hydro X Prix achieved such impactful economic results, and delivered so many wider benefits to the country as a whole.

“Holding an international motorsport event in Dumfries and Galloway,Scotland, while raising awareness of the country and Extreme E’s shared commitments to sustainability, renewable energy initiatives and e-mobility, was an ambitious project, but one in which we were able to deliver successfully.

“Extreme E has asked for a discussion with the government about the possibility of the race returning to Scotland next year. Although other countries are interested in securing a race, this Scottish location is very special and, with some modest investment from government, we could repeat this incredible event.”

Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition Mairi McAllan was there to watch one of the two days of racing. At the time she said: “18 months ago world leaders met in Glasgow for COP26, aiming to secure global net zero by the middle of this century.

“As an off-road rally series which focuses on the promotion of electric vehicles and clean energy innovations, the former mine was the perfect natural amphitheatre to showcase the necessary industry transition to move from fossil fuels to clean energy futures, and the central role Scotland wants to play in that just transition.”

As part of its environmental legacy initiative, the all-electric off-road racing series began a multi-stage project to mitigate the effects of climate change on local salmon stocks. Partnering with the Nith District Salmon Fishery Board, the aim is to reverse the impact of climate change through community engagement, education, and the application of science.

The UK Government’s Secretary of State for Scotland Alister Jack also attended one of the two race days. He said: “Scotland’s green energy potential is at the heart of the UK Government’s plans to deliver energy security, drive investment and grow the economy by developing clean domestic power sources.

“From the carbon capture sector where we are progressing at pace and investing up to £20 billion to help decarbonise our industries, to offshore wind, funding for low carbon hydrogen projects, and making the Contracts for Difference round an annual event, Scotland is a key part of the UK’s net zero plans and helping to boost economic growth through green jobs.

“I’m also pleased that Extreme E is helping the long-term transformation of the River Nith area that will help protect wild Atlantic salmon stocks.”

Extreme E also collaborated with Official Technology Partner Vodafone Business, who are using the pioneering championship as a testbed for innovation. The sensors put in place on the River Nith, which are monitoring temperatures, acidity levels and pollution levels in the water, play a crucial role in the wider Legacy Programme. From the impactful planting of over a thousand native trees, to using innovative technologies implemented by Vodafone Business, Extreme E is focussing on a long-term transformation of the River Nith area that will protect the Atlantic salmon stocks and biodiversity in the region.

YouGov Sport’s economic impact analysis for the Hydro X Prix was carried out using the eventIMPACTS methodology, an approach that has been developed by the UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Dumfries Cricketer James Hobman Lead Wicket Taker For Scotland Against Norway

Aug 16, 2023

In the Netherlands last week, Dumfries opening bowler James Hobman was part of the Scotland Men’s U19 team that qualified for the ICC U19 World Cup in Sri Lanka in January. In the six-team final European Qualifier Scotland were unbeaten to claim the one qualification place available. Hobman was the lead wicket taker against Norway taking 3 wickets for 25 runs in opening the bowling for Scotland in a comprehensive ten wicket victory.

A product of the junior ranks at Dumfries Cricket Club, James said of the tournament win, “It was a great experience to be part of the team in the Netherlands and the side did well to contend with changing playing conditions at different grounds and face new opponents for the first time in must win games. Everyone is now excited about the prospect of playing in Sri Lanka.“

The event in Sri Lanka comprises sixteen teams and Scotland can anticipate a four-team initial group stage with the prospect of challenging the likes of Australia, India or England in the group stage.

MP Supports Campaign To Re-open Footpath & Bridge Near Lockerbie

Aug 16, 2023

A CAMPAIGN to reopen a previously well-used country lane near Lockerbie — blocked because of a bridge closure — has stepped up a gear.

The metal and timber structure spanning the Dryfe Water at Maxwell’s Thorn north-west of the town was designated unsafe due to flood damage in spring 2022.

A high metal fence with warning signs greets anyone making their way along Torwood Road — accessed from the west roundabout at M74 junction 17 — and intending to cross the bridge on to the adjoining Gallaberry Road.

Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale MP David Mundell has intervened after being invited to visit the site by George Trudt, a community-minded Lockerbie resident and one of the campaign leaders.

Mr Mundell this week wrote to land-owners Crown Estates (Scotland) to highlight local concerns about the prolonged closure of the bridge and seeking clarification about any repair plans.

He said: “This route primarily served local and farm traffic but was also valued by walkers, cyclists and horse riders from the wider Lockerbie area.

“There is a great deal of historical interest in the route, which has been used by many generations of local people, and genuine concerns that the crossing could be lost for good if repair options are not under active consideration.

“The bridge carries a designated core path and was particularly popular with those seeking a scenic circular route to and from Lockerbie as well as an access point to the Annandale Way and a network of other minor routes.

“I understand the closure is also causing inconvenience for some local residents facing longer alternative routes and is a headache for farming enterprises with land on both sides of the bridge.”

Mr Trudt stated the bridge was ‘a big miss’ and it was vital that the crossing point was restored, both for recreational use and to meet the needs of farmers and other near-by residents.

He said: “This crossing, located at what may have been a ford at one time, is on a route which has been an ancient rite of passage for centuries. There was a mix of shock and disappointment when the bridge was fenced off.”

Cameron Shaw, who farms at near-by Dryfeholm, confirmed the bridge had proved an important link between their fields on both sides of the Dryfe Water during more than 50 years when generations of his family had been tenants.

He said: “The bridge was closed last year by the Crown Estates after some movement was identified in the foundations caused by flood water.

“Being unable to use the bridge has made our daily operations more difficult, time consuming and expensive. We have to use longer routes as the farm is now effectively split in half by the river.

“We’ve had an ongoing dialogue with the Crown Estates about the issue. It maybe they are reluctant to proceed because the high cost of repairs would be unlikely to be met through any additional income produced?”

New NHS Animation Aims To Explain Changes In General Practice Across Region

Aug 16, 2023

A NEW ANIMATED film is aiming to explain changes taking place in general practice across Dumfries and Galloway and Scotland as a whole.

The latest General Medical Services (GMS) contract supports a position where practices are increasingly staffed not just by a GP but by a variety of health professionals with a range of specialist skills.

Head of Primary Care Linda Bunney said: “For many, many years, people’s experience of general practice will have been phoning up to make an appointment to see a GP, attending in person and then discussing their issue.

“So many aspects of society evolve over time, and healthcare is no different. The latest GMS contract recognises that we now have a range of healthcare professionals equipped with specialist skills and knowledge, including pharmacists, mental health nurses, paramedics and advanced practitioners.

“The contract recognises that general practice is not something that the GP now handles alone but where they serve as clinical lead, heading up teams of professionals.

“The best person to help you with a situation is not always the GP. For example, in the case of issues relating to medication the pharmacist is often going to be the best first point of contact.

“Increasingly, practices are operating to determine the most immediate, efficient and effective way of providing help. Reception staff and patient assistants are trained in taking calls, obtaining information, and handling all matters with confidentiality.

“The new video aims to explain this continuing evolution of general practice, and the positives that come from that.

“It also helps to introduce the wide range of professionals now serving within medical practices, and the help which they can provide.

“As with so many aspects of health and social care, general practice faces very significant challenges – particularly in Dumfries and Galloway which is largely a rural area with a big geography and an ageing population.

“However, it’s with teams of professionals working together that we’re best placed to meet needs over coming years, and we want everybody to understand what sits behind this approach and the benefits it brings.”

Second Case Of Bird Flu Suspected At Premises near Kirkcudbright, Dumfries & Galloway

Aug 16, 2023

An inspector suspects that highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) exists at a Second premises near Kirkcudbright, Dumfries and Galloway. The Scottish Ministers consider it necessary to minimise the risk of the spread of avian influenza from the suspect premises, to declare a Temporary Control Zone (TCZ).

A 10 km Temporary Control Zone was declared, which took effect from 16:15pm on 15 August 2023. This means movement restrictions within these zones – for example, poultry, carcases, eggs, used poultry litter and manure – to prevent any further spread of disease. Further information can be found in the Declaration.

Keepers can find out if their premises are in these zones via the APHA interactive map. Premises which are partly or wholly within the protection zone declared on 14 August 2023 are deemed to be wholly within that protection zone and not the temporary control zone. Premises which are partly or wholly within the surveillance zone declared on 14 August 2023 are deemed to be wholly within that surveillance zone and not the temporary control zone. Any premises which are partly within the temporary control zone, and partly outside of any controlled zone are deemed to be wholly within the temporary control zone.

Vigilance by bird keepers is important and any suspicion of disease in Scotland must be reported immediately to the local APHA Field Services office.

Thousands Flocked To Galloway Country Fair 2023

Aug 16, 2023

GCF Spaniel Tests with Galloway Gundogs — credit Tony Marsh

Epic stunts, animals galore, fab food and fun at Galloway Country Fair, Thousands of visitors flocked to this weekend’s spectacular Galloway Country Fair – enjoying everything from stunt riders to sheep racing.

There was even a DJ set by Karen Dunbar from a mobile disco built into a Land Rover.

The attractions included:

Riders of the Storm – daredevil equine acrobatics
Flyin’ Ryan – amazing motorbike stunts
The Lamb National – sheep racing, with the chance for you to take part
The ever-popular dog show, where people parade dogs of every possible shape and size
The Kids’ Zone with loads of free stuff for children, including face painting
Food and drink of every kind

Gundog scurries – open to every kind of dog that wants to have a go.
Retriever and spaniel tests, putting highly trained working dogs through their paces.

Taking place at Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate, Dumfries and Galloway, on 12 & 13 August, it once again hosted Defender Jam, a giant jamboree of all things Land Rover.

Anna Fergusson, Drumlanrig Estate Director, said: “It was a really fun weekend, with huge amounts to do and see. And some of the main arena events – like the motorbike stunts and horseback acrobatics – were truly breath-taking.

“It was great seeing so many families – often with their dogs – enjoying a great day out at Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate.

“The fair is always a chance to relax and enjoy all the best about country life, as well as tucking into superb food and looking round all the arts and crafts.”

Galloway Country Fair sponsors include SP Energy Networks, Foresight, Community Wind Power Ltd, and Lloyd Ltd.

Visitors can save 10% off gate prices by booking online before Saturday 12^th August.

Visit www.gallowaycountryfair.co.uk for further information and keep up to date with the latest news, or check out @GallowayCountryFair on Facebook and Instagram.

Turbulent Waters: Objections Flow For River Cree Flood Protection Scheme

Aug 15, 2023

Dumfries and Galloway Council is currently facing almost 60 objections regarding a significant multi-million pound flood protection scheme.

The proposed scheme aims to construct flood defences along the River Cree at Newton Stewart and Minnigaff, areas that have experienced severe flooding in the past. Notably, in December 2015, the River Cree overflowed, leading to extensive damage to homes and businesses in the vicinity.

The primary objective of the flood protection scheme is to mitigate the risk of flooding in these vulnerable regions. The Council’s proposal has, however, elicited concerns from various stakeholders, resulting in a total of 58 objections being raised.

One notable concern expressed by objectors relates to potential adverse effects on fishing and land located within the boundary of the proposed scheme. The area is known for its fishing activities, and objectors fear that the flood defences might disrupt the natural flow of the river and impact the fish species present.

Council officials have been actively engaging with the concerns voiced by the public. In response to the objections, a report has been prepared and is scheduled to be presented to the communities committee in the coming week. The report details that many of the raised issues have already been addressed and considered during the scheme’s development phase.

As per the recommendations put forth by the council officials, the next steps in the decision-making process involve seeking approval from councillors. If the councillors give their consent, further deliberations will take place to carefully consider the remaining points of contention that have been raised by objectors. Among the objections received, a significant portion (24 objections) has come from property owners or individuals who have a vested interest in the land located within the designated scheme boundary.

As the Dumfries and Galloway Council proceeds with its decision-making process, it will weigh the objections and recommendations put forth by various stakeholders, aiming to strike a balance between safeguarding the community from future flooding events and addressing the legitimate concerns raised by those directly affected by the proposed flood protection scheme.

Are you an unpaid carer? Are you interested in supporting unpaid carers?

“Due to the meaningful engagement we have had with trade unions, we have avoided any industrial action in Scotland – the only part of the UK to avoid NHS strikes.

“We will now implement this pay uplift, and will work with BMA to take forward the other aspects of the deal including contract and pay bargaining reform.”

Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition Mairi McAllan was there to watch one of the two days of racing. At the time she said: “18 months ago world leaders met in Glasgow for COP26, aiming to secure global net zero by the middle of this century.

He said: “This route primarily served local and farm traffic but was also valued by walkers, cyclists and horse riders from the wider Lockerbie area.

“There is a great deal of historical interest in the route, which has been used by many generations of local people, and genuine concerns that the crossing could be lost for good if repair options are not under active consideration.

“The bridge carries a designated core path and was particularly popular with those seeking a scenic circular route to and from Lockerbie as well as an access point to the Annandale Way and a network of other minor routes.

“I understand the closure is also causing inconvenience for some local residents facing longer alternative routes and is a headache for farming enterprises with land on both sides of the bridge.”

He said: “This crossing, located at what may have been a ford at one time, is on a route which has been an ancient rite of passage for centuries. There was a mix of shock and disappointment when the bridge was fenced off.”

He said: “The bridge was closed last year by the Crown Estates after some movement was identified in the foundations caused by flood water.

“Being unable to use the bridge has made our daily operations more difficult, time consuming and expensive. We have to use longer routes as the farm is now effectively split in half by the river.

“We’ve had an ongoing dialogue with the Crown Estates about the issue. It maybe they are reluctant to proceed because the high cost of repairs would be unlikely to be met through any additional income produced?”

Head of Primary Care Linda Bunney said: “For many, many years, people’s experience of general practice will have been phoning up to make an appointment to see a GP, attending in person and then discussing their issue.

“So many aspects of society evolve over time, and healthcare is no different. The latest GMS contract recognises that we now have a range of healthcare professionals equipped with specialist skills and knowledge, including pharmacists, mental health nurses, paramedics and advanced practitioners.

“The contract recognises that general practice is not something that the GP now handles alone but where they serve as clinical lead, heading up teams of professionals.

“The best person to help you with a situation is not always the GP. For example, in the case of issues relating to medication the pharmacist is often going to be the best first point of contact.

“Increasingly, practices are operating to determine the most immediate, efficient and effective way of providing help. Reception staff and patient assistants are trained in taking calls, obtaining information, and handling all matters with confidentiality.

“The new video aims to explain this continuing evolution of general practice, and the positives that come from that.

“It also helps to introduce the wide range of professionals now serving within medical practices, and the help which they can provide.

“As with so many aspects of health and social care, general practice faces very significant challenges – particularly in Dumfries and Galloway which is largely a rural area with a big geography and an ageing population.

“However, it’s with teams of professionals working together that we’re best placed to meet needs over coming years, and we want everybody to understand what sits behind this approach and the benefits it brings.”

Anna Fergusson, Drumlanrig Estate Director, said: “It was a really fun weekend, with huge amounts to do and see. And some of the main arena events – like the motorbike stunts and horseback acrobatics – were truly breath-taking.

“It was great seeing so many families – often with their dogs – enjoying a great day out at Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate.

“The fair is always a chance to relax and enjoy all the best about country life, as well as tucking into superb food and looking round all the arts and crafts.”

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