DGCommunity.net - The Latest

Altan Headlines the 7th Moniaive Folk Festival

Thu, 08 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Tickets are on sale now for the 7th annual Moniaive Folk Festival which will take place Friday 9th May to Sunday 11th May. Moniaive, which The Times hails as "one of the coolest villages in Britain", will be hosting a busy weekend of concerts, workshops, children's events, sessions and competitions.

With Irish supergroup Altan headlining, the weekend lineup will also feature Roaring Jelly, Moishe’s Bagel, Lionel McLelland, The Paul McKenna Band and Absolutely Legless Irish Dancers. There's even a couple of Open Mike concerts to give young bands and visiting musicians a space to perform.

Details of the weekend programme are available online, and individual tickets and weekend tickets are available to purchase from www.moniaivefolkfestival.co.uk or via the ticket hotline tel. 01848 200474. Weekend tickets priced £30 can be purchased direct from The Craigdarroch Arms Hotel, Moniaive and Barnstorm Records, Dumfries.

Big Weekend at DG One!

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Tickets are on sale now for the big weekend at DG One from Friday 30th May to Sunday 1st June when the Auditorium will burst into action to stage three major events with something for everyone.

Friday night sees Karen Dunbar, hailed as Scotland’s funniest character comic bring her hilarious and unrivalled natural comic talent to the heart of Dumfries. Saturday 31st May is the highlight of the weekend when the world’s number one touring Abba tribute concert brings 2 hours of uplifting dance inducing and sometimes heart-breaking songs with fantastic staging, lighting and effects. This massive weekend of entertainment at DG One culminates on Sunday 1st June in the grand final of South West Sound Live with the best local bands battling it out to win the prized showcase slot at this year’s Wickerman Festival.

Tickets for Karen Dunbar are available from www.dgartsfestival.org.uk or ticket hotline 01387 245 566 and from VisitScotland (Whitesands, Dumfries).

Tickets for Abba Mania are available from Council Customer Service Desks in Dumfries, Annan, Kirkudbright and Stranraer, Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm and from TicketWeb Online or using their 24hr hotline 08444 77 1000.

Entry for South West Sound Live will be free on the door.

Business to Business Networking Exhibition

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

15th April 2008
Easterbrook Hall, Dumfries
2pm-8pm

Dumfries and Galloway Chamber of Commerce is holding a Business to Business Networking Exhibition sponsored by Darnwood Scotland.

Come along and meet members of the business community, learn about other areas of business, network and enjoy yourself. There will be a large selection of local businesses exhibiting at this event and the opportunity to attend various business-related seminars throughout the afternoon and evening.

Download the flyer below for full details.

If you have any questions about the day then please contact Amanda Hyde at the Dumfries and Galloway Chamber of Commerce office on 01387 270866 or email admin@dgchamber.co.uk.

By-Election For Abbey Ward - Result

Fri, 02 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Thomson, Scottish Conservative and Unionist with 2006 votes, (Stage 4 of the count) was elected to represent the Abbey Ward.

Percentage poll 45.03%

Rejected papers 26

Candidates were: MCAUGHTRIE Tom Scottish Labour Party Candidate
MCLEOD Graham William Sutherland Independent
MCNAUGHT John Richard Scottish National Party (SNP)
MYCOCK Keith Joseph Scottish Liberal Democrats
THOMSON Michael John Scottish Conservative and Unionist

Cashback for communities fund

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The latest strand of the Scottish Government's CashBack for Communities scheme is still open for applications but will close at 12noon on Friday 25 April 2008.

The Fund has been set up as part of Proceeds of Crime (Act) Investment which takes funds confiscated as part of the proceeds of crime and reinvests them back into local communities.

Grants will be given to projects from areas of multiple deprivation to fill gaps in provision for young people in those areas. The grants will fund organisations which support young people who are currently involved in or at risk of becoming involved in violence, alcohol, drugs and or anti-social behaviour. The emphasis is on youth work interventions constructed with and for young people in the 10 – 19 age group.

The allocation available for Dumfries and Galloway is £61,000.

Applications are welcome from all organisations - please access the following link for further information and an application form.

http://www.youthlink.co.uk/

Childminder Induction Training Upper Nithsdale

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA) will be running childminder induction training in Upper Nithsdale on various dates in May and June. The venue will be Sanquhar Primary School community room.
The dates will be:

Monday 19th May Information session 10-15 to 12.45

Assuming a sufficient number of participants then book onto the full course at the info session then the following sessions will take place:

Monday 26th May Sessions 2&3 10.15 to 12.30 lunch then 1pm-3pm

Monday 2nd June Sessions 4&5 (timings as above)

Monday 9th June Sessions 6 & filling in the form session (timings as above)

For bookings or information Telephone: 01556 690673 or 01387 256697

Comments are now invited!

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

REVIEW OF SMALL BUILDING GROUP SUPPLEMENTARY PLANNING GUIDANCE

Dumfries and Galloway Council is in the process of reviewing the published lists of Small Building Groups contained in the Supplementary Planning Guidance published in December 2006.

Comments are now invited to the amended lists recommended by the Area Committees before a final decision by the Planning, Housing and Environment Services Committee later this year. Go to the planning portal to view minutes for the meetings held on the dates shown below:

Annandale and Eskdale 15 February 2008
Nithsdale 22 February 2008
Stewartry 27 February 2008
Wigtown 13 February 2008

Comments in respect of changes to the published lists should be forwarded on the representation form to Strategic Planning Service, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Rae Street, Dumfries DG1 1LW by 5pm on 30 May 2008. Representation forms are available.

Please note:
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Dumfries Film Festival

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

1 - 8 May 2008

A week long festival of films themed around the environment and a celebration of films made in Dumfries and Galloway.

Our diverse programme has many highlights for 2008 including the premiere of the feature film ‘Outpost’ which was shot near Castle Douglas last year. The film was produced by Arabella Croft and Kieran Parker of Glasgow based production company Black Camel Pictures. With the assistance of the South West Scotland Screen Commission, they managed to utilize their tiny budget to maximum effect and create an Eastern European set, gore filled, action horror film, all filmed at Dalbeattie Munitions Factory, in a forest on the Balmaghie Estate near Castle Douglas and the Glasgow Film City. Before it was even completed buyers were lining up to offer but in the end Sony Pictures International offered a significant sum after only seeing a few minutes footage.

As well as producing one of the most anticipated Scottish originated and Scottish produced films in recent times, they also recently won the BAFTA Scotland New Talent award for Best New Producers in March 2008. An award that they are both immensely proud of and which they hope will carry them on to greater things with their next feature films.

the other special screenings will be a documentary about the Garden of Cosmic Speculation at Portrack House just outside Dumfries. Special guest architecture critic and designer Charles Jencks will introduce the screening and take part in a Q&A afterwards.

Make sure you don't miss any films by purchasing one of our Limited Edition Saver Passes.

See any 6 films for the price of 5! Two people can see 3 films together or come alone and immerse yourself fully in this year’s festival - don’t miss out! For details of how to purchase and full terms and conditions, please phone the box office on 01387 264808 .

It's time to get your running shoes on again!

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The 2008 Stranraer Half Marathon Plus Junior Runs will take place on Saturday 7 June.

You can register three ways:

By Telephone: Call DG Direct on 0303 333 3000 (Calls cost £0.03 per minute) to complete a telephone entry. If you are paying by a credit card to pay for this transaction a 1.8% surcharge will be incurred - this is approximately £0.27 for a half marathon non member entry (£15.00). If you are using a debit card, no further charge will be added.

Entry online at www.activeeurope.com (Please note that activeeurope charge a 10% convenience fee per transaction. This is £1.50 for a half marathon non member entry (£15.00). )

Paper Entry: Contact Karen Brownlie, Tel: 01776 702151 ext. 61345 or email: Karen.Brownlie@dumgal.gov.uk

Entries will be accepted on the day of the event but an extra £2.00 handling fee will be charged. NB: Half Marathon teams must be entered before the 7 June.

JOIN THE BROADCASTING DEBATE

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Is TV giving you what you want to watch?

Is the Scotland you know and want to see reflected on TV?

The Scottish Broadcasting Commission has been set up to investigate and review the TV industry in Scotland, what’s being broadcast and what Scotland wants.

Everyone has something to say about TV and the Commission wants to hear what you have to say. Come and share your views and ideas.

18:00 – 19:30, 11 APRIL 2008
Council Hall
English Street
Dumfries
DG1 2DD

The event is free but places are limited so you’ll need a ticket to come along.

Send your name and postal address to:

events@scottishbroadcastingcommission.gov.uk or
Scottish Broadcasting Commission,
5 Atlantic Quay,
150 Broomielaw,
Glasgow
G2 8LU

Tickets will be posted.

Launch of looked after children and young people website

Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Action 8 in Looked After Children and Young People: We Can and Must Do Better states that a national network and information website for professionals, foster carers, residential workers, parents and looked after children and young people will be developed. In partnership with the Looked After Children Education Forum and Learning and Teaching Scotland, the Website Working Group has completed this work in that the site was launched on the 6th May 2008 by Adam Ingram, Minister for Children and Early Years, at a Corporate Parent event in East Lothian.

The aim of the website is to support improved outcomes for all looked after children, young people and care leavers through the provision of information, useful resources and networking opportunities to those who support them and others who have an interest in this area - including children and young people as well as parents and carers.

You are invited to browse the site at: www.ltscotland.org.uk/lookedafterchildren

Whilst the site is now live there are areas which are still undergoing development. Your comments and suggestions for improvement of the site are welcome and you are invited to complete the comments box on the home page of the site with your feedback.

The site also has a discussion forum area which is open to anyone with an interest in supporting looked after children, young people and care leavers. It provides a forum for networking, discussion and sharing practice. If you are interested in registering please follow the links on the home page.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT BY-ELECTION

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY COUNCIL - NOTICE OF POLL

ELECTION OF ONE COUNCILLOR
ELECTORAL WARD 6 - ABBEY

1. Polling will take place between the hours of 7am and 10pm on Thursday 1 May 2008 for the election of one Councillor for the Abbey Ward, there remaining more than one validly nominated candidate than the number of councillors to be elected.

2. The name (including present names if appropriate), description (if any) and address (including current address if appropriate) of each candidate remaining validly nominated are as follows:

MCAUGHTRIE Tom
Scottish Labour Party Candidate
14 Rotchell Park, Dumfries, DG2 7RH

MCLEOD Graham William Sutherland
Independent
2 Victoria Terrace, Dumfries, DG1 1NL

MCNAUGHT John Richard
Scottish National Party (SNP)
Merrydown, 9 Elizabeth Crescent, Newton Stewart, DG8 6HE

MYCOCK Keith Joseph
Scottish Liberal Democrats
16 Holroyd Road, Kirkcudbright, DG6 4HR

THOMSON Michael John
Scottish Conservative and Unionist
Rowan Bank, The Glen, Dumfries DG2 8PX

3. The persons entitled to vote as electors at this election are the persons registered in the Register of Electors for the Abbey electoral ward, but a person whose name is so registered may not vote if the entry in the said Register gives as the date on which the person will become of voting age a date later than the day fixed for the poll.

Philip N Jones
Returning Officer

9 April 2008

Out Door Cinema at Deer Park, Sat 3 May

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Come along and enjoy a truly unique cinema experience! As part of the Dumfries Film Festival, the People’s Palace mobile outdoor cinema will be stationed at the Deer Park adjacent to the RBC showing FREE screenings of short films all afternoon on Saturday 3 May from 11am.

The tented cinema is resplendently decorated in red, gold and black with red and gold upholstered seats, and usherettes will be on hand to serve popcorn and a beautiful range of tailored hot water bottles to stuff up your jumper in case it’s chilly!

The People’s Palace was created by performance, film and installation artist, Alice Francis. After the Dumfries Film Festival the cinema will be off to delight other festival audiences over the summer including Glastonbury Festival, The Wickerman Festival and Electric Picnic in Ireland.

Amongst the short films to be screened will be three short documentary films about local environmental issues which were made during workshops held during last year’s festival. Media studies pupils from St Joseph’s College and Dumfries High worked with Edinburgh based filmmaker Tracey Fearnehough from Vivid Films over several months, attending workshops on developing and researching their ideas for their films, and learning how to use camera and sound recording equipment. Each group spent a day filming over the cold first weekend in December and worked with Media Studies teacher at St Joseph’s College to edit the films.

One of the films is about the topical problem of seagulls in Dumfries, one is about the train station and the third focuses on the village and community life of Glencaple.

The workshops, supported by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and Dumfries and Galloway Council, were part of last year’s inaugural film festival.

Chris Miles, Area Manager for SNH in Dumfries & Galloway, said:
‘Scottish Natural Heritage is particularly keen to encourage more people to learn about, take an interest in and hopefully get involved in looking after their local natural heritage. We were pleased to support the Documentary Filmmaking Workshop, as part of the Festival, as it providedopportunities for young people to take forward their own ideas about the environment and connect with nature using the medium of film.'

Phone Box Closures - have your say!

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

British Telecom (BT) are proposing to close telephone boxes throughout Dumfries and Galloway. However, if there are good reasons to keep a phone box open the Council could stop this happening. Perhaps mobile phone coverage is poor or the area is an accident blackspot.

We need to hear from you! To have your say, you need to complete a form indicating the phone box(s) you want to save and your reason(s).

Go to www.dumgal.gov.uk/consultation

Prevent Waste - Compost Awareness Week: 4 - 10th May 2008

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Scots are being urged to help reduce waste during Compost Awareness Week by composting more of their garden and kitchen waste at home.

Now in its eighth year, Compost Awareness Week 2008 aims to encourage more people to take advantage of the discounted compost bins available through the Waste Aware Scotland Compost at Home Campaign.

In Dumfries and Galloway, look out for the Home Composting Display in Dumfries Town Centre from 9am - 4.30pm on Saturday 10th May. Come along and get tips on home composting from the region's Home Composting Advisor and from the Council's Waste Prevention Officer. There will be a microscope available for visitors to use to learn more about how 'green waste' is made into compost and the bins which are for sale as part of the campaign will be on display.

Backed by all 32 Scottish Local Authorities, the campaign offers bins from as little as £6, with different sizes of bins to suit all households. Compost bins can be ordered at www.wasteawarescotland.org.uk or by calling 0845 077 0756. Each order comes with a free kitchen caddy and welcome pack with a guide to help you start composting at home. All orders will be delivered free of charge along with a welcome pack to help them get composting.

Councillor Roger Grant, Chair of the Planning, Housing and Environment Services Committee said 'Thousands of residents in Dumfries and Galloway have already purchased compost bins and are taking steps to help the environment by turning biodegradable waste into compost at home. I would encourage householders thinking about starting composting to come along on May 10th to find out more or visit the website for further details'.

Additional support is offered to home composters through regular newsletters and ezines to give news, information and seasonal tips to help make composting at home easy. Throughout Compost Awareness Week our Home Composting Advisors will be attending local events and workshops to offer advice and support to members of the public. For further information, visit www.wasteawarescotland.org.uk/compost

There will be further backing for the campaign by a network of Home Composting Heroes - members of the public who aim to share practical hints and tips about composting at home with their local communities. Their knowledge and experiences of home composting will be used to encourage others to participate in the scheme and help reduce the amount of waste being sent to landfill. If you would like to become a Home Composting Hero for Annandale and Eskdale, Nithsdale, Stewartry or Wigtown area, or would like further information, email homecompost@wasteawarescotland.org.uk

Commenting on Compost Awareness week, SWAG campaign manager Dr Nicki Souter said: "Composting at home helps to reduce the 900,000 tonnes of kitchen and garden waste that Scotland produces every year and I hope that people across Scotland will be encouraged to compost at home Compost Awareness Week".

Public Meeting - ”The Future of Flood Risk Management in Scotland

Thu, 08 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

RUSSELL CALLS ON PEOPLE OF DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY TO HAVE THEIR SAY ON FUTURE OF FLOOD RISK MANAGEMENT

How to better protect vulnerable communities from the increasing threat of flooding is the theme of a final public meeting to be held in Dumfries next week.

Minister for Environment, Michael Russell, will be hosting the meeting at 18.30 hrs on Friday May 9 at Easterbrook Hall The Crichton, Bankend Road, DG1 4TA to ask for local views on a new draft Flooding Bill.

Mr Russell said: “Climate change means that flooding has become an increasingly regular threat to communities around Scotland. I know the people of Dumfries and Galloway are acutely aware of the devastation which flooding can wreak on homes and businesses and the trauma this brings.

“This is why we are consulting on a new Flooding Bill, to introduce a more streamlined flood management process to help simplify and speed up flood protection measures and to take a sustainable, modern approach to how we manage flooding.

“I would call on everyone in Dumfries and Galloway to come along to have their say on this vitally important issue - this is an opportunity to help shape the new Flooding Bill.”

If you wish to comment on the consultation or would like to request a copy, please contact Gordon Young on 0131 244 0159 or email Gordon.Young@scotland.gsi.gov.uk Contact: Eleanor Stratford 0131 244 2018.

NOTES FOR NEWS EDITORS

1. To go comment on the flooding consultation go to: www.scotland.gov.uk/Consultations/Current

2. For directions to McMillan Hall go to: http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=mcmillan+hall+newton+stewart&sll=57.524304,-3.176422&sspn=0.16886,0.462799&ie=UTF8&ll=54.95729,-4.483666&spn=0.011286,0.028925&z=15&iwloc=addr

Public Meeting - Flood Risk Management

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Chaired by Michael Russell, Minister for Environment.

An opportunity to have your say on the future of flood rick management in Scotland.

Friday May 9, 2008
18:30 - 20:00

Duncan Room 1 and 2
Easterbrook Hall
The Crichton
Bankend Road
Dumfries

For more information contact:

Flooding Policy Team
Scottish Government - Water, Air, Soils and Flooding
Victoria Quay 1-H (North)
Edinburgh
EH6 6QQ

Telephone: 0131 244 0159
Email: engineering@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

Scottish Childminding Association Training

Tue, 06 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dumfries and Stranraer childminder induction courses will be held on following dates:

Port William, Monreith Arms Hotel
Monday, 5 May 2008
7.00 - 9.30 p.m.

Stranraer, Park Children’s Services Centre
Wednesday, 7 May 2008
7.00 - 9.30 p.m.

Dumfries, Aberdour Hotel
Thursday, 29 May 2008
6.30 – 9.00 p.m.

Followed by the remaining 6 sessions run in Dumfries and Stranraer (assuming sufficient numbers)
Venue: Aberdour Hotel, 16 – 20 Newall Terrace, Dumfries
Time: 6.30 - 9.00 p.m.

2. The Professional Approach Thursday, 5 June 2008
3. Meeting the Needs of the Children Thursday, 12 June 2008
4. Environment Thursday, 19 June 2008
5. Raising Awareness of Child Protection / Emergency First Aid Thursday, 26 June 2008
6. Partnership with Parents Thursday, 3 July 2008
7. Marketing Me Thursday, 10 July 2008

Venue: Park Children’s Services Centre, Ashwood Drive, Stranraer DG9 7NW
Time: 7.00 – 9.30 p.m.

2. The Professional Approach Wednesday, 14 May 2008
3. Meeting the Needs of the Children Wednesday, 21 May 2008
4. Environment Wednesday, 28 May 2008
5. Raising Awareness of Child Protection / Emergency First Aid Wednesday, 4 June 2008
6. Partnership with Parents Wednesday, 11 June 2008
7. Marketing Me Wednesday, 18 June 2008

The induction training is free of charge, for further information or to book a place please contact you local childminding Development Officer Ann Hadland West 01581 300659 ann.hadland@childminding.org or Lindsay McDowall East 01387 256697 lindsay.mcdowall@childminding.org

Single Outcome Agreement

Wed, 07 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A concordat was agreed in November 2007 between the Scottish Government and local authorities setting out the terms of a new relationship between the two sides, based on mutual respect and partnership. It underpins the funding to be provided to local government over the period 2008-09 to 2010-11.

The Scottish Government will set the direction of policy and the over-arching outcomes that the public sector are expected to work towards, but implementation will be at a local level.

As part of the concordat there will be a reduction in ring fencing of local expenditure and reporting requirements and any efficiency savings can be retained. Local authorities have agreed to contribute directly to the delivery of the key national commitments.

Single Outcome Agreement (SOA)
The drafting of a Single Outcome Agreement is part of the process for delivering on the concordat. The Council’s Corporate Plan and the wider Community Plan have been the starting point for the SOA. It will show how Dumfries and Galloway community planning partners are going to use their funding to develop services within the region whilst contributing to the national outcomes set by the Scottish Government.

The First Dumfries and Galloway SOA
Working closely with its community planning partners the first SOA for Dumfries and Galloway was submitted to the Scottish Government at the end of March. Feedback from the Government is expected shortly and has to be finalised by the end of June 2008.

This marks an entirely new relationship between local and national government. Both sides will be tied into an agreement to deliver more specific outcomes. In return the ring fencing and barriers that prevented money being spent in line with local priorities are being progressively removed.

It’s a big change and one that will develop over time.

The Public Sector Joint Management Team has agreed a consultation process that will be put in place between now and the final submission at the end of June. This will include a web based/written consultation with an updated SOA being issued at the end of May to inform a workshop for partners in June. The Council’s Policy Committee and the Community Planning Joint Board will consider the final SOA prior to submission.

Have Your Say
Your comments on the draft SOA are now being sought; you can download the document below.

You are asked to give consideration to the following areas and to submit your comments to donna.mounce@dumgal.gov.uk by Friday 16th May 2008.

- What changes are needed to the contextual information?
- What amendments or additions are required to the performance information?
- Are these the right local outcomes?
- Is there anything missing?
- How easy is the document to understand?

Spring Fling Bounces in with Packed Programme

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Spring Fling, Scotland’s premiere annual art and craft open studio event, is a unique event combining a visit to Dumfries and Galloway’s finest artists’ and makers’ studios with a tour of the region’s stunning countryside scenery.

The event which was launched today runs from 24 – 26 May Spring Fling and is now in its sixth year offers visitors the opportunity to meet the region’s talented artists and makers in their individual creative spaces, watch them at work and even have a go themselves. For three days only, over 70 studio venues, whether tucked away in a farm steading or set up in a dedicated studio, will display the work of 87 artists presenting a selection of the finest original art and craft in the country. The packed programme offers the ideal chance to make a weekend of it in Dumfries & Galloway.

To find out more about Spring Fling 2008 and request a free full colour brochure log on to www.spring-fling.co.uk or call 01387 262084.

Tennis - Family Fun Day

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Judy Murray will be visiting Dumfries at Nunholm Sports Club to be involved in the clubs Tennis Family Fun Day.

Judy is a PCA Qualified Level 3 Coach with over 12 years experience in the development of World Class players. Through her hard work as Scottish National Coach (1995-2004), Scotland produced 3 players in the World Junior Top 25 during 2003 (Andy Murray, Jamie Baker and David Brewer). Her introduction of National Development Schools for 8 – 11 year olds has had a huge impact in the production of performance players in Scotland and she was awarded LTA Coach of the Year in 2003. As a player, Judy won 64 Scottish titles and represented Great Britain in the World Student Games. Judy has also recently hit the headlines thanks to the prodigious performances of her son, Andy, who she has helped to steer in to the World’s Top 10 players in ATP Entry Rankings. Her younger son Jamie is also showing great promise and recently won Wimbledon doubles title.

Judy will be putting on activities at Nunholm to get children involved in the sport. Judy states “the key years of development in tennis are eight to 12 and learning the basics like co-ordination, footwork and the shape of shots before you go on to play more intensively. If you get that right, developing through the teenage years becomes much quicker and easier.”

The whole family is invited to attend the day on the 27th April starting at 11.00am and continuing through to 2.00pm. The day is free and everyone is welcome to attend.

The Mabie Forest 10k Trail Race

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

11am - Sunday 15th June 2008

The race, organised by Dumfries Border Harriers, will be staged on the beautiful trails and paths of Mabie Forest, which is situated just 4 miles south of Dumfries, off the A710.

Parking and refreshments will be available at Mabie Forest, which also offers superb facilities for Mountain Biking, Forest Walks and Picnics.

Entry forms are available from:

Steve Head
18 Undercraigs Road
Calside
Dumfries
DG1 4YA

Email: steve@mile26.fsnet.co.uk

The Plans Are Here!

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dumfries and Galloway Neighbour Renewal Partnership are unveiling the plans for new houses in Summerville and Lochside. The plans will be displayed on Wednesday 30 April at Dumfries North West Church Hall (formerly Lochside Church Hall) from 1.00pm - 6.30pm.

The unveiling of the plans follows extensive consultation with residents and community groups throughout North West Dumfries. It's now time for residents to see the plans which their ideas have helped shape.

James Shirazi, Director of Investment & Regeneration:-
"DGHP is delighted to announce that we are nearing the completion of the design phase, and we are looking forward to hearing the views of the tenants and residents during these final discussions prior to submitting the planning applications".

Roger Grant Chair of Planning Housing and Environment Services Committee said :
“A lot of work has gone into producing these plans and to ensure residents have their say. Neighbourhood Renewal is not just about bricks and mortar, its about building communities and I am pleased that residents have been able to voice their opinions and influence the plans throughout their development.”

The event will also give residents the chance to discuss how to make the most of Green Spaces in Summerville and Lochside as well as Summerhill, Stakeford and Lincluden, and to find out more about local activities, organisations and groups and how to join them.

Childcare is available to those attending the event, but places are limited on a first come first serve basis. There is also free transport to and from the event, phone E.C.H.O. on 01387 253782 to book transport or for more information.

Neighbourhood Renewal has emerged as one of this area’s high priority regeneration projects. This is reflected by the incredible £64 million investment put together by the Partnership including the Scottish Government, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Dumfries and Galloway Housing Partnership and the private sector. This is a huge and complex project involving the homes and lives of over 600 families both in Stranraer and North West Dumfries.

The plans are here! New housing for Stranraer

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dumfries and Galloway Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership are unveiling the plans for new housing in Dicks Hill. The plans will be displayed on Saturday 3 May 2008, Park Primary School from 11am – 3pm.

The unveiling of the plans follows extensive consultation with residents and community groups throughout Stranraer. It's now time for residents to see the plans which their ideas have helped shape.

James Shirazi, Director of Investment & Regeneration:-
"DGHP is delighted to announce that we are nearing the completion of the design phase, and we are looking forward to hearing the views of the tenants and residents during these final discussions prior to submitting the planning applications".

Roger Grant Chair of Planning Housing and Environment Services Committee said : “A lot of work has gone into producing these plans and to ensure residents have their say. Neighbourhood Renewal is not just about bricks and mortar, its about building communities and I am pleased that residents have been able to voice their opinions and influence the plans throughout their development.”

The event on the 3rd of May, will also be a chance for the Dicks Hill community to have a good time. There will be fun for all the family with face painting, circus workshop, inflatable’s, BBQ and lots lots more.

Neighbourhood Renewal has emerged as one of this area’s high priority regeneration projects. This is reflected by the incredible £64 million investment put together by the Partnership including the Scottish Government, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Dumfries and Galloway Housing Partnership and the private sector. This is a huge and complex project involving the homes and lives of over 600 families both in Stranraer and North West Dumfries.

Well Done Queens

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

An historic 4-3 victory for Queen of the South on Saturday sees them in the Scottish Cup Final on May 24 for the first time ever. Rabbie Burns donned the colours in Dumfries town centre last week to wish them well and he’d have appreciated the heroic footballing skills and the fervour of the fans that drove them into the final.

William Blyth Trust: Purpose Four - Invites Applications

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dumfries and Galloway Council is appointed by the Trustees to apply income from the residue of the Estate of the late William Blyth, and consequently, invites applications under Purpose Four of the William Blyth Trust, which provides for the rendering of financial assistance to persons resident in the Burgh of Dalbeattie who are physically or mentally incapacitated. Application forms are available from the following:

Area Manager (Ref: WBT), Council Offices, Daar Road, Kirkcudbright, DG6 4JG, Tel: 01557 330291 (Ext 66425); from the Customer Service Centre, Town Hall, Water Street, Dalbeattie.

Completed application forms should be returned by Friday 25 April 2008.

The right is reserved to make such enquiries into the circumstances of persons by, or on behalf of whom, applications are lodged as the Council may deem necessary or desirable.

Muse

Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Drawings and paintings of the head and body by Brian Addison, Newcastle upon Tyne [Gallery]

Volunteer Recruitment Forum

Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Display giving details about the Volunteer Recruitment Forum

Children 1st Coffee Morning

Sat, 10 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Coffee morning in aid of the charity Children 1st

Elaine Murray MSP - Surgery

Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MSP Elaine Murray will be available to meet constituents (by appointment only)

Alex Fergusson MSP - Surgery

Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MSP Alex Fergusson will be available to meet constituents (by appointment only)

Alex Fergusson MSP - Surgery

Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MSP Alex Fergusson will be available to meet constituents (by appointment only)

Derek Brownlee MSP - Surgery

Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MSP Derek Brownlee will be available to meet constituents

Stewartry Multi-scapes: New Photographic Views

Wed, 07 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Photographs by David Whittingham

Devoted to Life Walk

Sat, 03 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

6 mile walk from Leswalt to Lochnaw Castle. Free bus to return to Leswalt. Tea on return to hall

Monster Pop Art

Sat, 03 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Drop into Stranraer Museum to design and make your own dinosaur scale to cover our prehistoric monster frame plus other dinosaur activities, REAL prehistoric footprints on loan from Dumfries Museum, 'Peter Blake's Alphabet' Pop art exhibition and dinosaur shop stock display.

Portpatrick School PFA - Car Boot Sale

Sat, 03 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Car Boot Sale in aid of Portpatrick School with teas, coffees and home baking. All welcome.

Elaine Murray MSP - Surgery

Fri, 02 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MSP Elaine Murray will be available to meet constituents (by appointment only)

Galloway Garden Festival

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Galloway Garden Festival
Stewartry

Celebrating 500 Years of Printing in Scotland

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Exhibition on the history of printing in Scotland which gives details of local printers.

Jackie Moffat Paintings

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Display of paintings by local artist Jackie Moffat

Batik Images

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Landscapes in batik by Jack Harris, Kirkcowan [Gallery]

Painting and Sculpture

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Art works by Kenneth Ikin, Dalbeattie [Studio]

Walk of Hope

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

2.5 mile walks through estate. Be sponsored and raise money for local Marie Curie Nursing Service. Registration includes tea on return from walk and free entry to gardens

Tennis - Family Fun Day

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Judy Murray - LTA level 3 coach and mother of Andy Murray will be taking people through fun and games.

Peter Blake's Alphabet

Sat, 26 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Produced in 1991, these prints show Blake's method of working with 'found' imagery and reflects his humour, nostalgia and eclecticism.

A Hayward Gallery travelling exhibition.

Coffee Morning

Sat, 26 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Coffee morning with usual stalls.

Russell Brown MP - Surgery

Sat, 26 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MP Russell Brown will be available to meet constituents (by appointment only)

Teamworks Exhibition

Sat, 26 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Teamworks is a selection of local and national photographers who select a different theme each year to present their new work. Using the latest digital technology to create exciting images in black and white and colour, there’s always something to appeal to everyone.

Elaine Murray MSP - Surgery

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MSP Elaine Murray will be available to meet constituents (by appointment only)

Paintings by Ian McGibbon

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Paintings by the Kirkcudbright artist, Ian McGibbon.

Auchencairn Country Market

Sat, 19 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Selling quality local food products in a friendly and comfortable indoor environment.

Alex Fergusson MSP - Surgery

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MSP Alex Fergusson will be available to meet constituents (by appointment only)

Elaine Murray MSP - Surgery

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MSP Elaine Murray will be available to meet constituents (by appointment only)

Three Women and a Paintbrush : New Works

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Work in a variety of media by Thelma Gilbert, Aylane Smith and Linnhe Cringean, Dumfriesshire [Gallery]

Grease sing-a-long

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Fundraising event organised by the Douglas-Ewart High School Parent Council. Sing-a-long to the Grease film. Dress as your favouraite character (prize for best dressed). Raffle also on the night.

Derek Brownlee MSP - Surgery

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MSP Derek Brownlee will be available to meet constituents.

Great Wee Scottish Walk in Dumfries

Sun, 13 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A popular walk for children from 2 - 16 years over a distance of 2 miles. It is a fun day - wear fancy dress and enter for your favourite charity or community project. Activities include toddlers romp, teddy bears picnic, stalls, face painting and music. Free goody bag and a certificate to all entrants completing the route. Further details and application forms available online from the walk's website.

Web Site: www.greatscottishwalk.com

Elaine Murray MSP - Surgery

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MSP Elaine Murray will be available to meet constituents (by appointment only)

FORCE

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Contemporary portraits of Scotland’s Police Force, by Jane Brettle

James Maxwell and the Jacobites

Sat, 05 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dumfries and Galloway and the Jacobites, explored through the experience of James Maxwell of Kirkconnel, follower of Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Launch of the children's 'Draw your pet competition'

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Competition for children to celebrate National Pet Month

Elaine Murray MSP - Surgery

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MSP Elaine Murray will be available to meet constituents (by appointment only)

Landscapes, Burns and Sunsets

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Paintings by George Lawson, Kirkcudbright [Gallery]

SAC Climate Display

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Exhibition on climate by the Scottish Agricultural College.

Exhibition of Photographs by Ludomir Cikos

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Photographic display

Lockerbie Nursery Art Display

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Display of artwork by children from Lockerbie Nursery.

U3A Art Class Exhibition

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Art exhibition by members of the U3A art class.

Mulberry Harbour Exhibition

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Exhibition of the Mulberry Harbour constructions built at Garlieston during the Second World War

Hideo Furuta: A Sculptor Remembered

Sat, 29 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Renowned sculptor Hideo Furuta was based in Creetown until his untimely death in November 2007. This memorial exhibition, staged with the help of his son, friends and colleagues celebrates his work and life and offers a fascinating insight into a unique individual. Hideo was born in 1949 in Hiroshima, Japan and studied Art at Tokyo Visual Arts College from 1969-71. He spent five years studying Art, Mathematics, Physics and European Art History at the Department of Comparative Philosophy of Art and Aesthetics at the University of Hiroshima. Following his studies he worked as a stonemason at the Ishizaki Quarry, Kurahashi Island, learning from master-craftsmen. He came initially to Wales in 1985 and then to Creetown in Dumfries & Galloway 1991. His granite sculpture has been commissioned and exhibited widely in the UK and from 1992-94 he was the Henry Moore Fellow in Sculpture at the University of Northumbria. His most recent public art commission were for Ardrossan Harbour, Ayrshire and Adamson Square in Creetown.

Wigtown Youth Forum A.G.M

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Now is your chance to vote for who you would like to be the voice of young people in your local area. Vote for the new Executive Committee and Board Members. Only young people up to the age of 25 are entilted to vote at these elections!!! Hear the new vision for 2008 and about the forums achievements in 2007 not to be missed. Guest Speaker: tbc. All welcome

500 YEARS OF PRINTING IN SCOTLAND

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Fry recently claimed on television that the printing-press was man’s most important invention. So it is right that the 500th anniversary of printing in Scotland should be celebrated.
The story began in 1508 when Andro Myllar and Walter Chepman printed the first Scottish book and this year there are events across Scotland to mark the event.

We have our own tale to tell in Dumfries and Galloway and it revolves around a remarkable man, the Rev. Peter Rae. His story of battling against enormous odds to set up the first printing-press in the South of Scotland, along with much else, is told in a new exhibition.
500 years of Scottish printing: Dumfries and Galloway is to open on Saturday 19 April at the Ewart Library, Dumfries, and includes illustrations of the region’s first newspaper, as well as theatre bills (Madame Girardelli, the fire-proof phenomenon is worth a look), beautifully-decorated billheads and details of the local twentieth century printing trade. A small display of the “tools of the trade” will accompany the exhibition. Come and see Dumfries and Galloway’s contribution to the spread of knowledge through print!

ENDS

6th Sense project at Langholm Academy

Wed, 07 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A presentation is taking place at Langholm Academy at 11.00am 13.05.08 to celebrate pupils completing the first ever 6th Sense course.

The 6th Sense course has been developed by a partnership of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s “Determined to Succeed” team, Community Learning and Development team and local training provider Splash Business Services.

6th Sense has been developed to provide sixth year pupils with information, experience and hands on activities to help prepare them for life after school. The programme covered topics such as goal setting, budgeting, communications, job search techniques, employment and application forms, interview techniques, local labour market information and more.

The programme, which has been developed to take account of the local environment, has proved popular with the pupils who participated.

Some pupil comments..

“Definitely great to have support for the future”
“Prepared us for the future and gave me confidence for upcoming interviews”
“Very good mix of activity and information…very helpful”
“Well presented combining fun activity with a serious look at life after school”

Chair of Education and Community Services, Councillor Sandra McDowall, said, "Enterprise in Education projects in Dumfries and Galloway have been highlighted by Scottish Government as examples of good practice. The Determined to Succeed team works in partnership with local companies to give pupils the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the outside world. The 6th Sense project is a prime example of this excellent work."

Pupils will be presented with their official 6th Sense certificates and invitees will be able to meet with pupils who participated, Langholm Academy’s Head Teacher, the training provider Splash Business Services and representatives from Dumfries and Galloway Council.

The event is expected to last from 11.00am sharp to 12.00pm
ENDS

ADULT LEARNERS’ WEEK - 18th – 24th May 2008

Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Adult Learners’ Week is the UK’s largest and most successful festival and celebration of adult learning.
From the 18th – 24th May 2008, providers and learners across the UK will be working to promote, celebrate and highlight the learning opportunities available in every part of the country.

During Adult Learners’ Week many providers open their doors to adults encouraging them to pop in, have a chat about what they might like to do, or where they might be able to learn a particular subject. Many providers offer free taster session to encourage people to have a go at something new, and to show adults what is on offer in their local communities.

As part of this year’s celebrations in Dumfries and Galloway, local libraries are offering free family history taster sessions in Thornhill, Kirkcudbright, Ewart [Dumfries] and Annan libraries. These hour long sessions will provide basic hints and tips on where to start tracking down any skeletons in your cupboard!
A range of beginners computer sessions are also being offered during the week. Libraries in Moffat, Lochside, Thornhill Georgetown and Gretna will be holding hour long introductory sessions. Meanwhile Stranraer Library will offer two workshops on Creating an Email and on Using the Internet.

BBC Headroom is linking up with libraries across the UK, from May 2008, in conjunction with the National Year of Reading's 'Mind and Body' month. Every library will have Headroom recommended read cards for you to fill out. Please visit your local library and tell us which books help you unwind and feel better. A list of the top favourites will be published on the Headroom website so your recommendations can help support others.

Local libraries are also using the week to highlight the fact that library members have free access to some of the most popular online information sources via the library service’s website [www.dumgal.gov.uk/lia].

Encyclopedia Britannica is probably the best known reference work to be made available from home to members of Dumfries and Galloway Libraries, Information and Archives. The world’s oldest and most respected Encyclopedia is only one of a number of titles available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to anyone with internet access and a library card. Encyclopedia Britannica Online contains all the content of the books or CD Roms, including an atlas and dictionary, plus extra multimedia material unavailable anywhere else.

Other well-known reference titles as diverse as Whittakers Almanac, Concise Dictionary of National Biography, Scottish Law Directory, and the Good Food Guide can be found as part of over 100 works available through KnowUK, an online reference library. NewsUK on the other hand provides articles from 68 UK news titles including the Glasgow Herald and the Scotsman and 46 magazines such as the Economist or Farmers Weekly. Business users will be interested in Kompass, the famous database of products and services.

Janice Goldie, Cultural Services Manager: Libraries, Information and Archives said, “The internet has provided access to a range of information unthinkable just a few years ago. However, this rapid growth means that information often cannot be relied on for accuracy and may often be out of date. Local libraries can help users find their way through the electronic maze by providing free access to a wide range of authoritative online resources. This also provides local library members with access from home to accurate information from the world’s leading publishers any time they want, day or night.”

FREE FAMILY HISTORY TASTER SESSIONS

Monday 19th May 5pm – 6pm Thornhill Library
Wednesday 21st May 3pm – 4pm Kirkcudbright Library
Thursday 22nd May 10am – 11am Ewart Library Cybercentre
Thursday 22nd May 2pm – 3pm Annan Library

BEGINNERS COMPUTING SESSIONS

Monday 19th May 2.30-3.30pm Moffat Library Introduction
Wednesday 21st May 2.00 -3.00pm Lochside Library Introduction
Wednesday 21st May 3.30-4.30pm Thornhill Library Introduction

Wed 21st May 2.00pm to 3.00pm Georgetown Library Introduction
Thurs 22nd May 2.30pm to 3.30pm Gretna Library Introduction

Monday 19th May 10.00am – 11.00am Stranraer Library Creating an email
Friday 23rd May 10.00am-11.00am Stranraer Library Using the Internet

ENDS

An ancient and practical art comes to Annan Museum

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Annan Museum is showing an exhibition of Basket weaving by artists from all across the Scotland.

The Scottish Basketmakers Circle members have never exhibited in Annan before and are very excited to bring their work to the town. The organisation exists to promote basketmaking in all its forms; from chairs to environmental sculptures. The SBC itself meets twice a year and new members are always welcome. Pick up a leaflet at Annan Museum for more details.

The work on show in the SBC’s exhibition is very varied and you can see items from traditional fishing baskets to modern art, there are even examples of work made out of newspaper!

Many of these wonderful pieces are for sale. The exhibition runs until 10 May, open Monday to Saturday 11-4, admission free.

ENDS

Annan Museum lottery funded project, phase 1 complete

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Annan Museum has opened the doors on its newly refurbished permanent exhibition.

The project, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Your Heritage section, has received £35,000 to improve security, collection storage and exhibitions in Annan Museum. The project will culminate in a loan of very important Roman items currently held in the National Museums of Scotland.

Chair of Education and Community Services Committee, Councillor Sandra McDowall, said, "The items on display in museums are often like the tip of the iceberg - it's so difficult for them to display all the wonderful items that they have acquired or been gifted over the years. So it's a pleasure to know that more of the exciting exhibits in Annan's collection will be available on public view. I hope that locals and visitors alike will come along and enjoy the refurbished exhibition area."

For the first stage the Annan Museum has consolidated its collection storage into one area, allowing more use of the floor space for exhibition. More items are on display including the provost chains for the region and the museum's collection of WWI western front photographs.

One of the new sections includes the museum's growing collection of local costume. The display includes the wedding dress worn by Jane Glendinning in 1900, gifted last year. When the museum researched the item they found that Jane, aged 21, was married from 1 Station Road (renumbered as 5) and married the son of a local family, although he lived and worked in London.

Also on display is a 3000 year old sword found in fields around Lockerbie. This wonderful bronze sword is almost complete. It is only missing the upper portion of the hilt, a tiny section of the tip and the biodegradable part of the hilt.

The blade is leaf shaped and the blade edges are relatively sharp, but don’t have well defined bevelled edges. This probably means it was cast and cleaned, but never sharpened (and so not used). It may have been made especially for deposit as an offering to the gods or ancestors.

There is no context for the item although excavations at Lockerbie Academy last year turned up other Bronze Age objects, so it is clear people were living in the region 3000 years ago.

The sword was found 50 years ago by a local man who was working in the fields around Lockerbie. It was offered by the late finder's family as Treasure Trove last year and purchased by Annan Museum. It is a rare and important find which the museum is lucky to have in its collection

The next stage of the project will allow the museum to bring the NMS items from Edinburgh. In the meantime, the new exhibits are on display from Monday to Saturday, 11 to 4 and entry is free.

ENDS

ANNANDALE EAST WARD FORUM

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The next Annandale East Ward Forum will be at 6.45pm on Tuesday 6 May 2008 in the Victoria Hall at Kirkpatrick Fleming.

The Ward Community Forum is to enable community groups to exchange views and information with Elected Members in an informal manner and to respond to questions on local issues.

The first Forum for Annandale East was in January 2008 and was appreciated by those who attended for the opportunity to discuss issues with all Ward Members. All local groups in the Annandale East Ward are welcome to attend.

The previous meeting was wide ranging and covred subjects such as the Gretna Masterplan, childcare provision, the new drinking byelaw and the operation of multi-member wards.

If you have any queries which can be researched in advance please send them to Steve Southam, Area Manager Annandale and Eskdale, Dumfries and Galloway Council Tel:- 01461 203311 Ext 67202 Fax:- 01461 207040

ENDS

ANNANDALE SOUTH WARD FORUM

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The next Annandale South Ward Forum will be at 7pm on 15 May in Annan Town Hall.

The Ward Community Forum is to enable community groups to exchange views and information with Elected Members in an informal manner and to respond to questions on local issues.

The first Forum for Annandale South was in February 2008 and was appreciated by those who attended for the opportunity to discuss issues with all Ward Members. All local groups in the Annandale South Ward are welcome to attend.

The previous meeting was wide ranging and covered subjects such as small building groups, hall charges, parking spaces and mobile phone masts.

If you have any queries which can be researched in advance please send them to Steve Southam, Area Manager Annandale and Eskdale, Dumfries and Galloway Council Tel:- 01461 203311 Ext 67202 Fax:- 01461 207040

ENDS

APPOINTMENT OF CLERK OF LIEUTENANCY

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

HM Lord-Lieutenant for Dumfries, Mrs Jean Tulloch has appointed Alison Quigley as Clerk of Lieutenancy. Mrs Quigley can be contacted at the Registrars Office, 15 Ednam Street, Annan DG12 6EF on any matters relating to the Lieutenancy of Dumfries (the former districts of Nithsdale and Annandale and Eskdale).
ENDS

ARE YOU AWARE OF THE NEW FIRE SAFETY LAW?

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Norman Davies, Head of Fire Safety at Dumfries and Galloway Fire and Rescue Service, reminds ‘duty holders’ of the need to ensure that they are aware of their responsibilities under the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005.

Owners, Occupiers, Managers and those with responsibility must ensure that a Fire Risk Assessment is carried out in relation to their respective property.

You must read and take note of the sector specific guidance documents which are available via the infoscotland.com/firelaw website or by reading the hard copies in local libraries.

Many properties which were not affected by previous Fire Safety legislation are now subject to the new Act. Premises such as bed and breakfast establishments, holiday cottages and village halls must all have fire safety measures in place.

People with responsibilities for premises where the public have access can seek general fire safety advice from Dumfries and Galloway Fire and Rescue Service’s Fire Safety Department on 01387 252222.

ARTISTS AND MAKERS GATHER AT GRACEFIELD TO MARK A DECADE OF EU SUPPORT

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Artists and craft makers from Dumfries and Galloway, funders and other stakeholders gathered on the 1st April 2008 to mark the conclusion of a series of innovative programmes co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and Dumfries and Galloway Council. The funding supported the development of visual art and craft related businesses in the region; an updated evaluation study highlighted the impact this work has had on the local economy.

Dumfries and Galloway has been leading the way in developing visual art and craft businesses in rural areas since the appointment of Scotland’s first Craft Development Officer, Vanessa Morris, in 1994. The sector, which currently includes over 500 small businesses, is now supported by the Council’s Cultural Services Arts Team’s Craft Development Officer and Visual Arts Development Officer, posts that the Council agreed to mainstream within the Arts Team in 2005.

Since 1997 ERDF funding has enabled both craft and visual art businesses in Dumfries and Galloway to benefit from being part of a network of businesses receiving information and one-to-one advisory support; opportunities for professional development; marketing and product development grants; and projects aimed at raising the profile of the region’s visual art and craft sector in markets both within and outside the region. These have included supporting the attendance of Dumfries and Galloway makers at international trade fairs and the region’s highly successful Spring Fling Open Studio event, which has generated over £1.5M in visitor spend since 2003.

In 2000 and 2005 Dumfries and Galloway Council commissioned Todd Associates to provide an independent evaluation of the impact of the visual art and craft sector and the work of the Arts Team’s ERDF funded Art and Craft Sector Trade Development Project. This led to the most recent 2-year phase of ERDF funded support, which has now been subject to a further evaluation update. The key findings are as follows:

• The number of the businesses in the sector has grown from 326 in 2000 to 540 today, an increase of 65%
• The total turnover of the sector is now estimated to be £7,350,000, most of which is retained in the local economy, and the sector is generates 738 jobs
• Business are situated in locations right across the region, with Dumfries and Castle Douglas identified as hot spots
• The most recent 2-year phase of ERDF funded support has directly generated over £1,000,000 of visitor spend in the region and has contributed to the generation of 315 jobs in the region

While ERDF funding will now cease with the end of the current ERDF programme, there are still opportunities ahead for visual art and craft businesses. The Council’s Planning, Housing and Environment Services Committee has recently agreed an award of £25,000 per annum for three years from its Regeneration budget to support the continuation of the Spring Fling event, and the Arts Team will be supporting a new Spring Fling Open Studios Association in taking in managing and developing this event.

There are also opportunities developing to work with local and national partners such as the Council’s Regeneration and Europe team, the Scottish Arts Council and the Cultural Enterprise Office to continue to support marketing, professional and creative development initiatives for the benefit of the region’s art and craft sector.

Patsy Gilroy, Convenor said:

‘We were very pleased to welcome artists, makers, funders, and other stakeholders and supporters from across the region to mark the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. For more than a decade the European Regional Development Fund has supported the Council in developing visual art and craft businesses across the region, and while that stream of funding is now coming to an end we can still look forward to continued activity and continued success for what has become one of the most successful visual art and craft sectors in Scotland, and perhaps even the UK.

ENDS

Big Weekend at DG One!

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Karen Dunbar, ABBA MANIA, South West Sound Live all at DG One.

Tickets are on sale now for the big weekend at DG One from Friday 30th May to Sunday 1st June when the Auditorium will burst into action to stage three major events with something for everyone.

Friday night sees Karen Dunbar, hailed as Scotland’s funniest character comic bring her hilarious and unrivalled natural comic talent to the heart of Dumfries. Saturday 31st May is the highlight of the weekend when the world’s number one touring Abba tribute concert brings 2 hours of uplifting dance inducing and sometimes heart-breaking songs with fantastic staging, lighting and effects. The massive weekend of entertainment at DG One culminates on Sunday 1st June in the grand final of South West Sound Live with the best local bands battling it out to win the prized showcase slot at this year’s Wickerman Festival.

Karen Dunbar features as part of Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival and first burst onto the Scottish screen in 1999 in the hit comedy sketch show "Chewin' the Fat". Karen then went on to win the hearts of the nation with her own BBC television hit, “The Karen Dunbar Show", a huge success which ran for four series and received two nominations for the coveted Rose d’Or awards and Karen herself was nominated for Best Comedy Performance. As well as her television and radio success Karen Dunbar is arguably even funnier on stage. Her legendary live stand-up shows are far from ‘stand-still’ stand-up. An evening with Dunbar is non-stop mirth, music and madness, with her formidable singing voice adding another texture to an already unforgettable multi-layered performance.

Abba Mania formed in 1999 and the show has been selling out theatres and concert halls internationally ever since. This show has toured the world in its quest to bring the music of the Swedish supergroup to their millions of fans, old and new! Just last December (2007) it grossed over Aus $1 million at the box office in Sydney, Australia and this Spring it brought the house down in Seoul, South Korea! Agnetha, Bjorn, Benny and Anna Frida, collectively known as Abba, dominated the charts for nearly ten years and enjoyed nine UK number 1s. At their height they became Sweden’s highest export earners, amazingly, outselling Volvo cars. Sadly, in the early eighties, they decided to go their separate ways, but their music lives on. ‘Abba Gold’ was continuously in the Album Charts throughout the nineties and is one of the biggest selling albums ever.

Abba’s timeless songs were written to be enjoyed live and Abba Mania gives you exactly that – 2 hours of uplifting, dance inducing and sometimes heart-breaking songs, fully live with fantastic staging, lighting and effects. The show recreates Abba’s sound not only perfectly, but respectfully too. Abba Mania is not only for life long, die hard Abba fans but the new generation of fans, who never had the opportunity to see ‘Abba’ live. Hit after hit include ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘Waterloo’, ‘Mamma Mia’, ‘The Winner Takes it All’, ‘Super Trouper’, ‘Fernando’, ‘Take A Chance On Me’ and many more that continue to fill dancefloors worldwide.

If you’re looking for an excuse to party, reminisce or simply be entertained by the best music there has ever been, then this is the show for you “Beware of imitations…this is the real musical tribute!” – Poly Graham Sunday Mirror

DG One and South West Sound have teamed up to stage the grand final of South West Sound Live - Dumfries and Galloway’s biggest showcase of local music. Over April and May the region’s favourite radio station, South West Sound has been collecting demos from all kinds of singers, songwriters and bands from Dumfries and Galloway. On Sunday 1st June the cream of the crop will be “live” and on stage at DG One for the grand final. The Music will start at 2pm and best of all it is FREE entry.

There are two categories: Plugged and Unplugged. The top three artists of each category will play two pieces of original work and a panel of music experts will pick the winners. This is mega for the artists involved as the prize includes performing live at the awesome Wickerman Festival in July. This might be the start of a massive career for two of our local acts. You do not want to miss it! Check out the contenders for a place in the final at www.southwestsound.co.uk and look up the podcast page.

Tickets for Karen Dunbar available from www.dgartsfestival.org.uk or ticket hotline 01387 245 566 and from Visit Scotland (Whitesands, Dumfries).

Tickets for Abba Mania are available from Council Customer Service Desks in Dumfries, Annan, Kirkudbright and Stranraer, Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm or from Ticketweb’s 24hr hotline 08444 77 1000 www.ticketweb.co.uk

Entry for South West Sound Live will be free on the door

For more information visit www.dgone.co.uk

Ends

C’MON THE QUEENS!

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the history of Queen of the South football club is about to be re-written due to their qualification to the final of the Scottish Cup, Dumfries and Galloway Libraries, Information and Archives are delighted to announce a special “Cup Final” offer for all Queens fans.

Their popular “Through the Lens – Old Queen of the South” publication, a photographic history of the club, is being sold at the reduced price of £2 in all local Libraries, from 1 May until after the cup Final on 24 May.

Janice Goldie, Cultural Services Manager Libraries, Information and Archives said today, “Along with most of Dumfries we wish Queens all the best in the cup final. I am sure all Queens fans would enjoy the book, which features a picture from the 1950 Scottish Cup semi-final. Now that Queens have surpassed this high point, we may have to re-publish an updated edition!”

The book is on sale at the reduced price in all local libraries in Dumfries and Galloway until 25 May 2008.

ENDS

CAR CRASH CHALLENGE – SATURDAY 12 APRIL 2008

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dumfries and Galloway Fire and Rescue Service will host its annual Extrication Competition and Trauma Challenge at Dumfries Fire Station on Saturday 12 April 2008 at 10:00am.

These two events are used to test the skills of our firefighters in rescuing trapped persons from vehicles and the treatment of serious injuries.

Teams from our region will complete against one another. Visiting teams from West Yorkshire and Central Scotland will take part in mock car crash demonstrations for the public.

The latest equipment used by the Fire and Rescue personnel at road traffic collisions will be on display to the public during the competition.

The Fire and Rescue Service are continually working with its partners to reduce the number of road collisions, injuries and deaths on our local roads. Dumfries and Galloway Police and Safety Camera Partnership will have a road safety vehicle and patrol bikes on display throughout the day.

Doors will open to the public at 9.45am, all are welcome.

CARE COMMISSION REPORT ON COUNCIL'S FOSTERING AND ADOPTION SERVICES

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

'Keep up the good work' is the key message of the Care Commission's latest inspection of the Council's Fostering and Adoption services in February and April 2008.

The services were first inspected by the Care Commission in November 2006 to February 2007 and the report at that time was very positive.

John Alexander, Service Director Social Work Services, said, "It is a tribute to the hard work, professionalism and commitment of the Council's Fostering and Adoption Service that they have been able to improve the service yet further and fulfill the recommendations from last year's reports. The current reports give one recommendation each for fostering and adoption and 2 requirements for fostering.

"Keeping foster carers, children and their parents informed and taking account of their views forms a large part of the work of the service. We will also pay close attention to the comments that service users made during the inspection. We hope to improve our service to foster children by finalising leaflets designed specially for their needs. I am particularly pleased at our progress in staff training and development and foster care training because the quality of the service is directly linked to the knowledge and skills of the staff and carers. "

Some comments from foster carers during the inspection:
'The views of the children in our care are taken into account during reviews.'
'All the training has been useful and transport costs are covered.'
'I always get the help and support I ask for. They have never let me down.'

Some comments from users of the adoption service:

Adoptive parents: 'The children's link worker did a very good job of preparing them for adoption.'
'They helped us through some difficult times.'

An adopted adult looking for their birth parent: 'They applied to the court for access to my adoption file which was amazing.'
'I had nothing on my past or my identity until I met my social worker.'

A birth parent trying to trace their child who was adopted at birth:
'My social worker was great. They explained what they could do and helped me work through all the possible outcomes.'
'It has been an emotional experience and very difficult at times, but it was worth it in the end.'
'I have only good things to say about the service and my social worker. The support I have received from the outset has been brilliant. Being able to talk to someone who understands has made the whole thing much easier.'

The report is in two separate parts for fostering and adoption. For fostering, the care commission reported on whether the service was meeting five different National Care Standards. The Fostering Service had a wide variety of strength and areas of good practice. This report has one recommendation and two requirements for fostering.

For the Adoption Service, the Care Commission used questionnaires, visits and telephone interviews to obtain the views of service users, including an adopted child, adoptive parents, social workers, an adopted adult and a birth parent. There was a focus on the area of Child Protection including the Scottish Social Services Council and staff training plans. The inspection was made against ten particular national care standards.

The Council's Adoption Service had a wide range of strengths and very few areas in need of development, indicating that national standards were met or exceeded. There is a single recommendation for the Adoption Service.

The full report (in two parts) will be available on the Care Commission website from 25 April 2008 www.carecommission.com

Celebration of Volunteering and Learning

Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dicks Hill Resource Centre was buzzing with activity on Wednesday 16th April as volunteers and learners from the community arrived to celebrate their achievements. After a celebration lunch, Councillor Graham Nicol, Chairperson of Wigtown Area Committee, delivered an opening speech. He highlighted the large increase in community members and groups within the Resource Centre through effective partnership working linked to a range of funding opportunities. Positive publicity in the local media and the celebrations indicated the amount of community spirit and active citizenship there is locally.

The event was organised and co coordinated by Linda Greenhill from the Community Learning and Development Service who said, ” Although there is a range of services using the Resource Centre, this event celebrates the achievement of the local community through the opportunities provided through Community Learning and Development Service, Neighbourhood Renewal, Building Healthy Communities and the support of the Community Wardens.”

In the crowded hall, Councillor John Dougan presented certificates to the volunteers and learners with support from relevant partners.

Awards Ceremony;-
Councillor John Dougan, Wendi Cuffe, Neighbourhood Renewal and Deirdre Gray, Community Learning and Development Service.

Wendi Cuffe explained,” The Neighbourhood Renewal Community Reference Group was formed 2 years ago to participate in the regeneration of the Dick's Hill area. The group have attended, and helped to organise, a number of consultation events which are used to inform the neighbourhood renewal process. The group recently helped to organise a very successful community litter pick and are planning more exciting community events in future."

Councillor John Dougan and Murdo McLeod, Building Healthy Communities.

Murdo McLeod stated,” Building Healthy Communities volunteers are involved in activities to help the overall individual and community health and wellbeing. The volunteers are involved in various projects including the Discoverers parent group, the Jack & Jill’s group, Arts for Health Stranraer Women’s Active Group and the tambourelli."

Linda Greenhill described Community Learning and Development's role in conducting a two year community engagement project involving the community in the decision making processes which affect the area in which they live. The consultation highlighted the need for tailored learning opportunities with a focus on supporting the community into volunteering or employment opportunities, such as the Community Café which started in 2005. With support the Community Café continues to grow in strength and now provides placement opportunities for a range of agencies and provides a gateway to lifelong learning.

Councillor John Dougan presented certificates with a various CLD staff:-

• Core Youth Work training –Jo Haddow
• Community Café – Linda Greenhill
• First Aid and Driving Theory - Diane Laverie
• Elementary Food Hygiene and Advanced cookery –Diane Laverie working in partnership with Dumfries and Galloway
College, John Niven Campus
• Brush Up Your Skills Drop In- Donna Denholm

Finally, Councillor John Dougan presented certificates with David Hodder who explained, “ The parents from Park school who are part of the Parent’s Activity Group which was formed after the 2005 summer activities. This group has been inspirational in driving forward parental involvement in activities associated with the three schools linked to Family Learning. The Parent’s Activity Group has developed into a leading group within the school and is linked to various school groups.

As the clapping quietened, Alan McLauchlan, Principal Officer, CLDS congratulated the volunteers and learners on their achievements which highlighted the involvement of the community in their area and thanked all for attending the celebration.
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DEVELOPING GRETNA AS THE GATEWAY TO SCOTLAND

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

An internationally renowned and spectacular landmark at Gretna will be identified as the main national gateway between Scotland and England. This is just one of the projects which form part of the Gretna Regeneration Masterplan to be discussed at a meeting in Gretna on 28th April.

Local MSPs, Councillors and local stakeholders will be there to discuss the Masterplan and the opportunities that lie ahead for the Gretna area. The politicians will be briefed on this comprehensive plan to regenerate Gretna (which includes Gretna Green and Springfield) and what it will achieve for Scotland. The Masterplan includes the Landmark Project mentioned above, a development led by Dumfries and Galloway Arts Association.

Prepared with the involvement of the local community, Ward Members and other stakeholders, the Gretna Regeneration Masterplan was agreed at the Council's Planning, Housing and Environment Committee on 11th March.

Chair of Planning, Housing and Environment, Councillor Roger Grant, said, "The meeting is part of the Council's decision to seek wider acceptance and awareness of the Gretna Regeneration Masterplan. We believe that working in partnership is the way forward and I hope that our local MSPs will put their full support behind the plan.

"We will agree priorities for regeneration projects in the Masterplan by consulting with partners in the community. In particular, the Council would like to discuss the options for Central Avenue, Gretna, especially possible shopping developments. We would also like to see the formation of a local regeneration partnership based on an extended membership of the existing Gretna Forum.

"Dumfries and Galloway Council has already shown that partnerships can benefit Gretna. In recent years there have been severe constraints on new development in the Town due to the inadequate capacity for new water supplies. The Council's Economic Regeneration team led a partnership with Scottish Water to develop a solution to this problem."

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DG One - See it now!

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The DG One team has moved in to the brand new leisure, sports and entertainment complex in Dumfries and is taking calls to discuss membership options and arrange tours in the state-of-the-art fitness suite.

Sports and Events Champion, Councillor Gill Dykes took the tour of the facility earlier this week and signed up to a Profiles Premier package, she said; 'I am really delighted with how DG One looks and what it has to offer, the facilities are excellent and I cannot wait to use my membership. It is really exciting that this leisure complex will be open in the next couple of weeks for everyone in Dumfries and Galloway to start using,'

DG One houses three swimming areas incorporating a main pool built to national short course competition standards, a training pool with moveable floor so the depths can be adapted for a huge range of activities and a beached leisure water area with swirling river and lightening flumes. The facility is the biggest venue for leisure, sport and entertainment in South West Scotland and will be a regional centre of excellence for sport, bringing championship level facilities to Dumfries and Galloway.

To find out more about joining DG One to book your tour call the membership hotline on 0800 0833 633 now or email profiles@dumgal.gov.uk (Tours by appointment only). DG One opens to the public on Wednesday 28th May.

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DG One Delight

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dumfries and Galloway Council announced today that it has now taken over major elements of the DG One Leisure Complex in Dumfries, with the rest programmed within days.

The announcement was made at the Leisure Complex Sub Committee. Chairman David McKie said; 'I am absolutely delighted that the Council has taken possession of some of the major elements of the dry-side in DG One and that the remaining areas are expected to follow in the very near future. This is an exciting time for everyone involved in DG One and this really is good news.'

Tonight sees the first concert in DG One with Dumfries Male Voice Choir performing alongside guest artists Emily Smith and Jamie McClellan. With over 600 tickets having been sold, tonight will allow many people a preview of the facility that will open for general public use within the next few weeks at a date to be announced.

So with the final count down now on before the doors to DG One are opened, plans are being advanced for a big weekend of events in DG One starting on Friday 30 May with comedienne Karen Dunbar, moving onto Abba Mania on Saturday night and finishing with the South West Sound Live Battle of the Bands Final on Sunday 1 June. Watch local press for ticket details.

DG One will be the flagship facility in the Council's already impressive Leisure & Sport portfolio providing a national event size competition pool, multi-purpose events hall that will seat 1,200 people and an 80 station fitness suite, health and dance studio.

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DG One Moves to Council Control

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dumfries and Galloway Council has received the keys to the flagship DG One Leisure Complex and has taken over the running of the building from May 1st.

Council training and commissioning programmes are now in full swing with general public opening scheduled before the end of May and programmed visits from schools and clubs and fitness inductions starting well before then.

Councillor David McKie chairs the Leisure Complex Sub Committee that has been overseeing the project:

“This is great news”, he said. “It’s the final phase before the opening and we now need to make sure everyone is fully trained and everything is ready to be used to its full capacity. "

DG One Opening Date Announced!

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It has just been announced that DG One will open to the public for the very first time on Wednesday the 28th May.

Chair of the Leisure Complex Sub Committee, Councillor David McKie was delighted to be able to make the announcement; 'It has been a great week for DG One, the Council took control of the building on Thursday and today we can announce that DG One will open to the public on the 28th May. I am really delighted that DG One is moving forward at a pace and within a matter of weeks we will be welcoming the first customers into the facility.'

So with under a month to go until the doors swing open, excitement is building. Preparations are well underway for a massive opening weekend of entertainment at DG One starting on Friday 30th May with comedienne Karen Dunbar, hailed as Scotland’s funniest character comic bringing her hilarious and unrivalled natural comic talent to the heart of Dumfries. Saturday night will see the world's number one touring Abba tribute concert, Abba Mania take to the stage. DG One's first week of opening will be topped off on Sunday 1st June when the grand final of South West Sound Live takes place. This free event will see the best local bands battle it out to win the prized showcase slot at this year’s Wickerman Festival.

The impressive sports and leisure complex expects to welcome over 400,000 customer visits in its first year. It will be the biggest venue for leisure, sport and entertainment in South West Scotland and includes state of the art health and fitness and audio visual equipment as well as Bar and Café.

The flagship project will be a regional centre of excellence for sport and gives Dumfries & Galloway championship level facilities. DG One houses three swimming pool areas including a main pool built to national short course competition standards, a training pool with a moveable floor so the depths can be adapted for a huge range of activities for swimming lessons, aquacise and special needs groups. There is also a beached leisure water area with a swirling river and lightening flumes.

Memberships are available from the DG One Sales Centre at the Ice Bowl in Dumfries or for further information on prices and offers call 0800 0833 633, email profiles@dumgal.gov.uk or log onto www.dgone.co.uk.

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Discover the history of Queen of the South F C at Dumfries Museum

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

An exhibition tracing the history of Queen of the South F C opens on Friday 25 April at Dumfries Museum. Originally compiled with the help of Ian Black, Curator of the Queen of the South Museum, this display of photographs, programmes and personal memorabilia formed part of the “Homes of Football” celebration in 1999. In view of the club’s recent success, museum staff thought visitors would welcome another look.

The club was formed in 1919 following the First World War. The new team was drawn from three existing sides, one representing the local regiment, the 5th King’s Own Scottish Borderers, another from the early car factory of Arrol Johnston at Heathhall and the third the town of Dumfries. The blue shirts and white shorts reflected the strip worn by the KOSBs team.

Various names were suggested for the new club, including Dumfries United, Vale of Nith, Southern Wanderers and Queen of the South. The latter was first used by local writer and politician, David Dunbar in an 1857 election address to describe the town of Dumfries. Queen of the South was chosen and Palmerston Park, already an established venue, became their home.

Queen of the South’s first game took place on 16th August, 1919. Their opposition was the Sanquhar side Nithsdale Wanderers, and the match ended in a two all draw. Later Queen of the South competed in the Western League, the old Third Division, then the Second Division before joining Division One in 1933.

Their stay in Division One lasted until 1950, when they were relegated, only to return as champions. They also reached the Scottish Cup semi-final and two League Cup semi-finals. Crowds averaged around 10,000 throughout the 1960s. Later the club’s fortunes declined and they led a precarious existence in the lower divisions, promoted four times only to be relegated again.

In the mid 1990s, a new chairman and board made great changes, with substantial investment in the stadium and in a youth policy. There was also a commitment from the club to the local community, and teams of all ages including girls’ and women’s sides now wore the famous blue and white shirt.

Queens contested their first ever national cup final, the Challenge Cup, in November 1997, at Fir Park, Motherwell where they met with First Division Falkirk and were narrowly defeated 1 - 0. Their fortunes continued to vary, but in 2003 they won the Scottish Challenge Cup, and in 2005 they finished fourth in the First Division – their highest since 1963. In March 2008 Queens reached their first Scottish Cup semi-final in 58 years. Their high scoring victory against Aberdeen in the semi final takes the club to the final for the first time in their history, where they will meet Rangers.

Making it to the final ensures Queens will play in the next UEFA cup. Next season will not be the first time they have toured abroad, however. In May 1936 they blazed a trail across Europe and North Africa. They were one of the first United Kingdom teams to participate in a European tournament, playing eleven games, winning seven, drawing one and losing three.

The exhibition runs until Saturday 31 May. The museum is open 10am – 5pm Tuesday – Saturday, 2pm – 5pm Sunday.

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DJ Night at the Oasis

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A DJ Night, is being held on Friday 16th May at the Oasis Youth Centre, Dumfries from 7.30 pm till 10.30pm.

DJ’s confirmed for the event are : Pace/Marshin/Cee Kay/Bouncy and they will be supported by MC’s Outlaw/Sam C/CYX
There will also be a chill out zone/snack bar/dry bar/information stalls. This is the second safe and healthy music event organised by young people from the Youth Strategy Executive Group with the support of the Police, the Alcohol & Drug Action Team, Community Learning & Development, and the Youth Issues Unit, both part of the Council.

The cost is £3,or £2 with your Young Scot card, but please note that young people attending this event will be breathalysed and patted down by the Police before entry is permitted. The key point is that young people can go to an event, where they are under no pressure to use drugs or alcohol.

This idea originally came from Australia, and has been running in Fife and Dunfermline and locally in Annan where they are extremely successful.

The group had their first event - a local bands night - in February. Over 60 young people went along to the Oasis Youth Centre to join in.
For more information please contact Sarah McPherson from the Youth Issues Unit on 01387 260201

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For further information contact:

Telephone: 01387 260041

DOG RESCUE

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

At around half past ten on the morning of Sunday 27 April 2008, Dumfries and Galloway Fire and Rescue Service responded to an incident involving a trapped dog at a sewage works in Dumfries.

One Fire Engine and a major rescue vehicle from Dumfries attended the incident. On arrival, firefighters were confronted with a small poodle that had fallen into a sewage tank. As the distressed dog was being retrieved from the tank, it managed to bite through a firefighter’s gloved hand.

The firefighter in question was given a tetanus injection at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary as a precautionary measure.

The firefighter and dog are both doing fine.

DRIVE SLOWLY OVER NEWLY SURFACE DRESSED ROADS

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Annual surface dressing work on the roads in Dumfries and Galloway started on Monday 12 May 2008.
During May, June and July approximately 520,000 square metres of road will be treated and approximately 10,000 tonnes of chips will be added to the road surfaces. The work is a very cost effective way of maintaining roads. On average it adds five years to the life of a road and is 20 percent of the cost of resurfacing. The Council will be spending over £1.3M on surface dressing this year and asks people to take extra care until the work is finished.

The key message to motorists is: Drive slowly over newly surface dressed roads.
Between now and July you are likely to come across locations that have recently been surface dressed or which are being worked on.
For the technique to work properly, the chippings need to be pressed into a thin layer of hot bitumen on the road surface by a roller and also by normal traffic movements and this is where you, as a driver, can help by driving slowly where you can see that the surface has recently been laid. Low speeds and careful driving in the days after surface dressing has been undertaken will add to the quality of the finished surface.
Driving at a slow speed will also help protect vehicle bodywork and tyres from damage or from picking up bitumen and chippings.
Speed restriction signs will be displayed at surface dressing sites for the safety of the travelling public, their vehicles and the workforce. Please drive within these limits and be assured that The Council will do its best to minimise any disruption caused by surface dressing.
If you have any queries about surface dressing operations please contact Combined Services Local Services offices at Lockerbie - 01576 203113, Dumfries - 01387 261076, Castle Douglas - 01556 502327.

DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY’S FAVOURITE RHYME OF ALL TIME

Tue, 06 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Humpty Dumpty and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star tied for first place in Dumfries and Galloway’s favourite nursery rhyme of all time, according to a new survey.

These traditional classics, published in 1810 and 1806, have beaten modern rhymes such as Five Little Monkeys and a Hedgehog is Very Prickly to the top spot.

Baa Baa Black Sheep has taken second place in the poll, and Hey Diddle Diddle came in third.

The poll of children and parents across Dumfries and Galloway was conducted by the book gifting programme Bookstart in Scotland, to raise awareness of its free Bookstart Rhymetimes for children aged birth to three and their parents or carers.

Bookstart Rhymetimes have been running in Dumfries and Galloway since 2005 as an extension of the Bookstart programme. They are held in libraries throughout the Region, are free to attend and incorporate a mix of modern and classic rhymes, songs, movement and books.

It was revealed that Hickory Dickory Dock came in fourth place, with fifth place going to the Wheels on The Bus.

Councillor Sandra McDowall, Chair of Education and Community Services Committee said: “Instilling the love of reading from an early age is one of the greatest gifts that any parent can give to their child. Learning rhymes is a traditional way of introducing children to the fun you can have with words and I'm sure everyone must have their own favourite rhyme. My grandson is learning Hickory Dickory Dock and Sing a Song of Sixpence at the moment and I don’t know who’s having most fun – him or me!”

Christine Johnston, Young People’s Librarian and Bookstart co-ordinator in Dumfries and Galloway, said:

“It’s wonderful to see the enduring popularity of these traditional rhymes which are passed down through generation after generation. At our Bookstart Rhymetimes we want everyone to enjoy singing rhymes, listening to stories and reading books, whether it be old classics or something new.”

A lucky winner was also selected at random from all the entries. Blythe Moore from Sanquhar will be presented with her prize on Bookstart in Scotland Day, May 15th at Sanquhar Library.

The number one nursery rhyme in Scotland was found by the survey to be Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, followed closely by Humpty Dumpty.

For further details about Bookstart Rhymetimes, log on to www.bookstart.org.uk.

Top Ten Nursery Rhymes in Dumfries and Galloway

1. Humpty Dumpty
1. Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
2. Baa Baa Black Sheep
3. Hey Diddle Diddle
4. Hickory Dickory Dock
5. Wheels On The Bus
6. Little Green Frog
7. Jack and Jill
8. Mary Had a Little Lamb
9. Incy Wincy

Local MSPs Elaine Murray and Alex Fergusson joined in the fund vote: their favourite rhymes were Pop Goes the Weasel and Baa Baa Black Sheep.

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DUMFRIES FILM FESTIVAL ANIMATION WORKSHOPS

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Following on from the successful animation workshops run at last year's Dumfries Film Festival we have expanded the programme this year due to popular demand. In just a few hours you will be able to create your own animation clip and discover the magic of bringing inanimate objects to life! This hands-on workshop will show you the basic techniques of stop frame animation then you can let your imagination run wild.

The workshops will take place on Saturday 3, Sunday 4 and Monday 5 May and will start at 9:30am or 1:30pm and will last for 2 ½ hours. The cost per child is £10 and previous experience is not necessary, but early booking is advised as places are limited.

Last year’s workshop was booked out within just a few days of going on sale. All the children who went on the workshop had a fantastic time. Parents commented that it was a brilliant workshop and that they were surprised by the high quality of the animation that the children made in just a few hours. Several parents said they really wished that there was something like this more often.

The workshops will be run by Morag and Dougie Muego of the MMV Art Studios, 179a/b Heathhall Business Centre, Dumfries.

To book spaces at the workshops please contact the Film Festival box office at the Robert Burns Centre Film Theatre on 01387 264 808.

DUMFRIES FILM FESTIVAL: TALES OF THE RIVERBANK WORLD PREMIERE

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Following on from the success of last year’s film festival, the second Dumfries Film Festival will shortly be with us. Taking again as its theme the timely and pressing subject of the environment and climate change, over the May Bank Holiday weekend the Robert Burns Centre will again become a vibrant hub, and celebrate the power of film to provide us with a deeper understanding of our changing planet and to challenge us with fresh points of view.

Launching on 1 May 2008, the festival will show a broad range of films over the holiday weekend. With special star guests, gala screenings and workshops this is a not to be missed event. You can view the full programme of events on the cinema website www.rbcft.co.uk or pick up a copy of the programme from the RBC and other venues. Please call the RBC on 01387 264808 for bookings.

There are many highlights in the programme, ranging from the silver anniversary screening of the classic Scottish film ‘Local Hero’, some of the best world cinema and groundbreaking documentaries about some of earth’s most critical environmental issues – the effects of development, the accelerating pace of climate change and where and how our food is produced as well as several Scottish, UK and even World premieres of films. Filmmakers will be on hand to discuss their films along with environmental experts and special guests.

Excitingly, the festival has managed to bag the world premiere of ‘Tales of the Riverbank’ an brand new children’s animation from the award winning director John Henderson – the major creative influence behind the BAFTA winning series ‘Spitting Image’ and director of ‘The Borrowers’ and ‘Greyfriars Bobby’. Hammy Hamster, Roderick Rat and GP the Guinea Pig are some of the most popular characters ever to enchant a television audience. Now at last their wonderful world and madcap adventures come to the big screen.

The comedian and actor behind the persona John Shuttleworth, star of the hit TV series 500 Bus Stops (BBC 2) and four series of the award winning radio series The Shuttleworths (BBC Radio 4), Graham Fellows, will be coming to Dumfries to introduce his comedy documentary ‘It’s Nice Up North’ at the RBC at 8pm on Monday 5 May. In the film he tests the popular theory - that the further north you travel, the friendlier people will be - by venturing to Britain's most northerly spot, the Shetland Isles!

The Festival films also celebrate Dumfries and Galloway’s wild and beautiful places with screenings of films made here last year including the premiere of the feature film ‘Outpost’ which was shot near Castle Douglas, and a rich programme of short films celebrating local filmmaking talent. There will be animation workshops, a screenwriting workshop a filmmakers’ workshop designed to support and encourage new talent in the region. The workshop will consist of a round table discussion with the filmmakers and funders giving an insight on the process of short filmmaking: from the development of your initial idea to sourcing collaborators, the shoot and distribution.

The festival is run by Dumfries and Galloway Council in partnership with Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and the Crichton Carbon Centre.

Chris Miles, Area Manager for SNH in Dumfries & Galloway says: ‘Scottish Natural Heritage is particularly keen to encourage more people to learn about, take an interest in and hopefully get involved in looking after their local natural heritage.’

The team at the Crichton Carbon Centre is delighted to be supporting the Dumfries Film Festival again in 2008. Dr Monica Contestabile, Senior Lecturer at the Crichton Carbon Centre says, ‘Cultural events like this Festival have an unanticipated impact on people’s feelings regarding important social issues while being pleasant experiences at the same time. Bringing the natural environment into a process of artistic creation like film making is the testimony of its extraordinary aesthetic power in addition to its essential role in the life of people. However, the Film Festival goes beyond the artistic experience by encouraging the debate on several environmental aspects. We will be hosting panel discussions following some of the thought-provoking films and we would welcome your participation and look forward to engaging with you.’

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