August 2011

Supporting the local community by linking Social and Business Networking

LINKThe Stewartry

free to allresidents August 2011

Issue No. 5RRP £1.00

Distributed to the entireStewartry community,every household andbusiness. Now over13,000 addresses!

Free Ice-Creamat Mersehead, see P13

Monthly magazine: Does your business ororganisation need to reach out to morepeople? The Link will get your message

across to the entire community with longerexposure. From simple classifieds to full page

business profiles and newsletters, beSociable with the Stewartry and support your

local community by using the Link

Greenleaf Photographic Studiosannounces the launch of

The Stewartry Wedding Show.See back page for details

Win a £50 voucher to spend inCastle Douglas Town Centre by

filling in a quick survey.Details on p7

£50!!!WIN

OutdoorSection

p22

GALLOWAY KITE TRAIL

2 Please mention when answering an advertLINKTheStewartry

Business Index: Find the local supplier you need quicklyin this handy guide...

AccountingSerenity Bookkeeping…………… 25

Adventure ActivitiesF5 Karting ……………….……….. 23

ArchitecturalPre-Site Surveys………………….. 25

Art GalleryRockliffe Gallery ………………….. 21The Scottish Showcase Gallery… 21

Bathrooms, DesignerRab Corder Bathrooms………….. 31

BuilderExcellence Homes……………….. 25

Buildier’s MerchantKeyline……..……………………… 27

Cafes The Mad Hatter…………………… 19

Carricks of Carsephairn…………. 19Treats & Eats.……………………. 19

Community ClassifiedsGaelic Language Workshops.…. 4Kbt Arts &Crafts Trail.…………… 11The Stewartry Show…………….. 7Day of the Region…….….……… 21Food Town Initiative Survey……. 7

ElectricianGalloway Electrical Services…….. 31

FencingFHB Fencing …….……………….. 27

Gift ShopFetch .………………..…………….. 15Polka Dot …….…….……….…….. 21The Ark.…………….……………… 19

GroceriesColvend Shop……………………… 19

IT ServicesStewartry IT Services.………...….. 25

Deadlines for inclusion is the first of everymonth prior to the month of publication…eg an insertion required in the Septemberissue would need to reach us by the 1stof August. This applies to all categoriesincluding SIGs, events, classifieds, etc

Logs, HardwoodRM Hardwood Logs………………. 31

Painter & DecoratorBrian McConnell ………………… 31

PhotographyGreenleaf Photographic Studios.. 15

Professional PrintingFP Commercial Printing…….…… 25

ReflexologyEquilibrium.……………………….. 15

RestaurantsBarons Craig……………………… 21Urr Valley…………………………. 15Cross Keys .……………….……… 7The Royal Hotel….……..………… 19

Sporting GoodsM. McCowan & Son.……..……..… 23

Timber Treatment / Damp ProofingKaapstone ………………………… 27

TyresStewartry Tyres …………………… 27

Vacancies .………………………….. 15

Visitors CentreGem Rock Museum …….………… 7

Wedding Entertainment Corra - Live Band and Ceilidh….. 32

Wrought Iron, DecorativeRanchers………………………….. 27

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Join us online...www.stewartrylink.com

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Coming up next month is our first wedding issue, announcing the winner of the fabulouswedding photography competition and the launch of a Stewartry Wedding Fair - see theback page for details

Editor’s Note: Dear All Main Features:Readers Recommend… 4Diary Dates…………….. 5Restaurant Review……. 8Community Focus

The Stewartry Show.. 24Dalbeattie Matters….. 12Dalbeattie Civic Daze 10Kircudbright Arts& Crafts Trail .……… 11Mersehead.………… 13

Natural Health…………. 14Monthly Recipe………… 18Art & Culture………..…. 20Outdoors ………………. 22Garden View……….….. 26Puzzle Page……………. 28SIGs ……..……………… 29Useful Phone Numbers.. 30

Stewartry Link takes no responsibility as to the accuracy ofadvert contents or submitted articles and is purely the opinionof the company or author

Front Cover: This month’s photo wassent in by Caroline McKean, “The Eye”at Galloway Forest Park. Looks likeanother gorgeous day to be had.

Send in your pictures for the frontcover to [email protected]

Entries can be anyone or anything, theonly requirement is to have someconnection to this area. (Wildlife,landscapes, people using localamenities, or just enjoying a day out)

Support your community:Advertise in this magazine for as little as £39

No VAT - Call 07875 209927

Jo, The Ed

Well we ran the Eden ticket competition advertised in the Juneissue, and the lovely Miss Codi Wood from Kirkcudbright Academywas the lucky winner. Some of the photos from the Eden festival areup on facebook. We took the photos as the clouds gathered and I’mafraid I left the winnners to get their tent up in the rain. I love a musicfestival but I like my own bed in bad weather. Codi tells me her andher mate enjoyed it though. - Next month we will be announcing thewinner for the Wickerman Tickets but if you want immediatenotification you will have to join me on Facebook or Twitter.

I don’t know if anyone noticed but we had a short historical piecelast month. David Deveraux from the Stewartry Museum has verykindly offered to send in a photo and description each month, andwe have entitled it “Time Out”. We have also had a bit of a changeon the puzzle page, bit more word orientated this month for thosewho are not Sudoku fans.

We are now able to supply additional magazines so if you have aholiday resort or shop and would like to stock any for visitors pleasejust give me a call. Currently there are some being supplied out ofthe Dalbeattie Initiative for anyone who wants an extra copy. Ordersover 10 or that require delivery will carry a wholesale cost to coverany additional printing and delivery. Otherwise feel free to pick up ahandful and I will organise drop off points for collection.

One last thing - would love a front page photo that is of maybe somepeople or wildlife as well as the landscapes being sent in… just for awee change. But thank you to everyone who has sent in either aphoto or an article. It is much appreciated as is some of thesuggestions on how to improve the magazine. Please keep themcoming in so the magazine just keeps getting better.

Till next month, take care.

Birthday, Anniversary,Wedding?

~~~Get that special photo in the mag

07875 [email protected]


Rory Gould of Galloway Stonecraft 07815 988241/ 01557 331950I recommend Rory for all your stonework needs. He has re-pointed our stone housewith lime mortar & done an excellent job. Not only that, but he is a pleasure to workwith. Diana Edwards, Gatehouse.I would recommend Mitchells the green grocers in Castle Douglas especially fortheir fruit and veg box delivery service. - Elisabeth, Castle Douglas

If you have a supplier, shop or business you would like torecommend to your fellow readers please continue to sendthem to [email protected] or 07875 209927Readers Recommend:

We will be showcasing the planned activities and events for the first ever Dayof the Region celebrations to take place in the UK - right here in Dumfries andGalloway on 1st and 2nd October this year!All 5 community locations will be at the Day of the Region Stand at the Stewartry Show to promote what will behappening in their community - so come along and find out what’s on!LEADER Staff will also be present to discuss possible future Day of the Region locations and to chat aboutgeneral community project funding.Look forward to seeing you there! Keep up to date by visiting www.dayoftheregion.co.uk or receive updatesdirect to your mobile register by text now! 07797 80 40 30

The Stewartry Show… WE'RE PART OF IT!

Are you interested in Gaelic?

Scott ish Gaelic Adult Learners DayCastle Douglas Tow n HallSaturday 3 September 2011 9:30am - 4:30pm

Talk by Michael Ansell on “Gaelic in Galloway”.

Follow ing w hich you can attend a:

• Beginners Taster Gaelic Class or

• Post-beginners Class or

• Advanced/Intermediate Gaelic Class or

• Gaelic Song Workshop

The cost for the day is £10 which includestea/coffee breaks, but not lunch.

* For more information and to register please contact:Anndra Wilson,Gaelic Development Worker,Community & Customer Services,Dumfries & Galloway Council, SouthMachars Community Centre,Castlehill, Whit horn, DG8 8PN

Fòn / Tel. 01988 500364 Fòn-laimh / Mobile. 07921 038630Post-dhealain / Email: [email protected]

Là Gàidhlig luchd-Ionnsachaidh Caisteal-Dùghlais Di-Sathairne 3 Sultain 2011.


Dates for the DiaryFor more detailed information, contactdetails and other events check out the

web site calendar onwww.stewartrylink.com/events.htmlSend your event to [email protected]

Art Exhibitions / Craft Fairs18/06-01/10 Not only painters – Kirkcudbright craft workers 1900-1975’ - The Stewartry Museum, StMary's St, Kirkcudbright, DG6 4AQ28/06-30/07 George Muir: Places and Experiences - Gracefield Arts Centre Cafe, Dumfries29/06-09/07 Creative Painting - Castle Douglas Arts Gallery02-30/07 Roger Cutler - Exhibition of wood turning and wood art - Fleet Gallery, Gatehouse02/07-29/08 The Glasgow Boys at Kirkcudbright’ - The Stewartry Museum, St Mary's St,Kirkcudbright, DG6 4AQ17/07 – 06/08 Galloway Craft Guild Summer Exhibition - Castle Douglas Art Gallery29/07-01/08 Kirkcudbright Arts & Crafts Trail - Kirkcudbright Various29/07 Kippford Painters Annual Exhibition Preview - Kippford Village Hall30/07-06/08 Kippford Painters Annual Exhibition - Kippford Village Hall30/07 Summer Craft Fair - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH31/07 Summer Craft Fair - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH13/08 – 18/09 From Woods and Gardens Paintings and Prints by Pamela Grace - The CatStrand20/09 Craft Fayre and Community Stalls - Royal Hotel, Kirkcudbright

Children’s Shows & Activities25/06-27/08 The Age of Dinosaurs - Annan Museum, DG12 6AA11/07-24/08 School Holidays01-05/08 RSAMD Drama Works Front Page - The CatStrand07/08 Surreal McCoy presents: Big Rory & Ochie - The CatStrand20/08 Circus Dance Fantastique Workshop - various ages - The CatStrand21-28/09 Castles SWSDFA Young Art Competition - The CatStrand01/10 Junior Dalbeattie Hardrock Challenge - Dalbeattie10-21/10 School Holidays

Festivals, Shows and Civic Events31/07-06/08 Dalbeattie Civic Week - Dalbeattie, various03/08 Wigtown Agricultural Show, Bladnoch Park, Wigtown DG8 9AB04/08 Stewartry Agricultural Show, Castle Douglas07/08 Scottish Alternative Games - New Galloway Park13/08 Youth Beatz - Dock Park, Dumfries14/08 Borgue Holiday Fair - Borgue Village Hall & Village Centre28/08 Dalbeattie Civic Flower Show - Dalbeattie30/08 Kirkcudbright Tattoo - MacLellan Castle Kirkcudbright23/09 Wigtown Book Festival - Wigtown (various venues)01-02/10 Day of the Region (Various venues)

Evening Entertainment05/08 New Galloway Ceilidh - New Galloway Town Hall18/08 Alastair McDonald in Concert - Dalbeattie Parish Church, Dalbeattie

5

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19/08 Music from South America - The CatStrand25/08 Film: Submarine - The CatStrand30/08 – 03/09 Nunsense II - The Second Coming; by Dan Goggin - Lochside Theatre Company,Castle Douglas07/09 Jazz Night with Jeff & Anne Barnhurt USA - Twynholm Village Hall DG6 4NT08/09 Pokey LaFarge & The South City Three - The CatStrand15/09 Open Stage - The CatStrand22/09 Film: Oranges and Sunshine - The CatStrand30/09 Glenkens 73 Club & CatStrand Youth Players - The CatStrand

Outdoor31/07-05/08 Kippford Week sailing and Regatta – Kippford01/08 Gala Day Pondemonium and RSPB World Record Breaking Bird Roadshow - Cream o'Galloway, Gatehouse, DG7 2DR03/08 Wild Wednesday - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH05/08 Family Fun Fridays - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH06/08 Galloway Re Cycle Sportive - Glorious Galloway11/08 Mossdale to Secret Cages walk – Galloway Kite Trail - Mossdale car park, DG7 2NF10/08 Wild Wednesday - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH12/08 Family Fun Fridays - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH17/08 Wild Wednesday - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH18/08 Mossdale to Secret Cages walk – Galloway Kite Trail - Mossdale car park, DG7 2NF19/08 Family Fun Fridays - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH24/08 Wild Wednesday - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH26/08 Family Fun Fridays - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH31/08 Wild Wednesday - RSPB Mersehead, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH04-10/09 Scottish Borders Walking Festival - Teviotdale and Liddesdale02/10 Dalbeattie Hardrock Challenge – Dalbeattie

Other15-18/08 Collage & Textiles Workshop with Mary Pugh - The CatStrand03/09 Farmers Market - Tarff Town & Country, Lockerbie Rd Dumfries25/09 Scottish Gaelic Adult Learners Day / Là Gàidhlig luchd-Ionnsachaidh - Castle Douglas TownHall / Caisteal- Dùghlais Di-Sathairne25/09 Jimmie Macgregor John Muir: Wilderness Guardian - The CatStrand

Sponsored SIGsMon, weekly Poker Night, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway, DG7 3RNWed, weekly Pub Quiz, Cross Keys Hotel, New Galloway, DG7 3RN

6

All events where ever possible will be listed In the Diary pages of the magazine for free.Email your event to [email protected] stating the event, location, dates and ashort description. Deadlines for inclusion is the first of every month prior to the month ofpublication… so for example an event in July would need to reach us by the 1st of Junefor inclusion in the magazine and you can never be too early to send in the event. If it isin the calendar the magazine will be see it for inclusion

‘Dates for the Diary’ inclusion info…


· A traditional Bar with a good selection of RealAles, Malts and a welcoming log fire.

enquiries@thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.ukwww.thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk

Quiz Night everyWednesday, 8:30pm

Poker Night everyMonday, 7:15pm

01644420494

enquiries@thecrosskeys-newgalloway.co.ukwww.crosskeys-newgalloway.co.uk

· Excellent Restaurantspecialising in fresh,local produce.

· 10 cosy en-suiterooms with allmodern facilities.

High St, New Galloway, DG7 3RN

DISPLAYSWORKSHOP

PROFESSOR'S STUDYTHE AMAZING CRYSTAL CAVE

AUDIO VISUAL DISPLAYFANTASTIC CAFÉ

UNIQUE GIFT SHOP

The Gem Rock Museum, Chain Road, Creetown DG8 7HJTel: 01671 820357

www.gemrock.net Email: [email protected]

Naturallyinspiring

place to visit

We have fantastic displays of gems, crystals,minerals and fossils, a collection of unique andbreathtaking creations from all over the world.And our café is renowned for fantastic food, homebaking, quality coffees and teas.

£50!WIN

The Food Town Initiative would bevery pleased if everyone could take a

few minutes to answer a fewquestions on Food Town Day at

www.stewartrylink.com/win.htmlThis will let us get feed back from the

community concerning the FoodTown Initiative’s work and the FoodTown Day event that took place in

May this year.There will be a £50 voucher to spend

in any independent business inCastle Douglas Food Town for onelucky draw winner who replies to

this survey.

Complete the survey to enter


I hadn’t been to the Cafe style Restaurant inPalnackie since long before it stopped being the‘Crow’s Nest’ but I had been hearing some goodthings about it since it became ‘The Willow Tree’ sothough we should go and investigate.The external appearance did not look much differentapart from the signage, but on entering it wasdefinitely a new restaurant in there. It always did

have a light and airy feel to it thanks to the large open windows, but the décor was really fresh too. Thereis a funky ‘bar’ area hiding a secluded table. The front has comfy upholstered bench seats where Iimmediately imagined being able to host a larger group. And the décor included two beautifully wovenwillow trees with their branches intertwining with fairy lights across the ceiling. Even in the middle of theday they looked effective, it was a nice touch.Mum and I looked through the menu with some interest. You had the normal offerings of breakfast rolls,baked potatoes and filled rolls, etc, but then the breakfast rolls had a vegetarian option and the rolls hadan artisan option plus there were children’s choices.Looking through the Lunch mains I found to my delight, not onlywas there a vegetarian option but there was also an option the wasGluten, Wheat, Nut & Dairy free option, a Chicken Tikka Masalawhich was tempting. Having a family member who is both Glutenintolerant an diabetic and several friends children with nut allergiesI am conscious of the problems of eating out for some families. Iwas getting the impression the Chef here was putting someconsiderable thought into the menu and it was working.I decided to go for the vegetarian option as it sounded the mostintriguing, the Brie and Potato Almond Crumble. Mum was going fora traditional choice of a baked potato and Prawn Marie Rose. Wealso had a pot of tea for one and a mug of ‘Grumpy Mule’ fair trade filter coffee.Drinks arrived and the only slight complaint I had was the coffee was seriously strong and did not comewith any hot milk. Now that was partly my fault, I enjoy what some people would term very week coffee,others would not call it coffee at all. I often ask for a half shot latte when I am out and about. This time Ididn’t think to mention it because I was expecting a cafetiere where I could ‘milk’ down the coffee.However the very helpful waitress immediately organised a pot of hot milk when I asked and it was alldone with smiling service.When the food arrived the baked potato was at is should have been, baked in the oven for slightly crispskin, fluffy flesh and a decent amount of prawns, served with side salad and coleslaw. My savourycrumble on first taste was definitely different and it took a couple of mouthfuls to start registering all the

flavours in there while I was deciding if I liked the combination.By the third mouthful I definitely liked the whole ensemble. Thecrumble had the almonds and some herbs in there and it wasindeed a crumble, it had not sunk into glutinous mass as isprone when left sitting for any length of time. The sauce wasdistinctly brie, I hate these ‘cheese’ sauces when it more of asuggestion, I like to taste the cheese in a sauce to point youcan identify what cheese has been used to make it. And theveggies, cooked al dente the way they should be, took therichness of the sauce down a level to a good balance. It wasserved with a side salad and coleslaw but could just haveeasily been served with a selection of steamed veggies

The Willow TreeRestaurant ReviewRestaurant Review

9

Do you have an establishment you would like featured? Or have a favouriteplace you would like to recommend (perhaps along with your recommendeddish or speciality)? Contact Jo, 07875 209927 or [email protected] withthe details. Every effort is taken to be fair and honest.

Sampled from the Menu:Brie, Potato, Courgette & Almond

Crumble,served with side salad and coleslaw

Baked Potato with Prawn Marie Rose,served with side salad & coleslaw

~~O~~Fruitcake (Wheat, Gluten and Milk free)

~~O~~Pot of Tea for one,

“Grumpy Mule” Fair Trade Filter Coffee~~O~~£17.15


The Willow Tree, Glen Rd, Palnackie DG7 1PH - 01556 600092

Excellent Food and considerate menu choices. Very pleasant service and pretty décor. Theonly down side is the location being a bit off the beaten track but well worth the visit.

Rating 4 out of 5

depending on the time of day or time of year. Wasn’t quite surewhat to expect when I ordered it but I really enjoyed it.Now for something sweet as I topped up my mug of filter coffee.Mum was avoiding sweet and fattening things so it was down tome. They had quite a good selection of homemade baking but theone that caught my eye was the fruitcake. Not a normal choice forme when I am out, I usually like to try something really rich but thisone was Wheat, Gluten and Milk free. Brave option to have on amenu I thought after having bad experiences with Gluten freebread.It was lovely. Very crumbly so I half expected it to be a bit on thedry side after cutting it but it wasn’t. It was delicious, even if youdon’t have food allergies I would recommend trying it.The Willow Tree does an evening menu Thursdays to Sundaysand after our lunch I am seriously planning on trying out theevening menu. They seem to offer something a little bit differentand a little bit healthier if that’s what you are after as well as yourmore traditional fair. The décor was lovely, Ok I am a sucker forfairy lights all year round, but it reminded me of some of theboutique cafe restaurants you get in the likes of Edinburgh. Thewhole willow tree theme is carried of well. Service was with asmile plus an absolute God Send if you have a family memberwith allergies.My advice is to go try it out, plus there is a nice walk if you gofurther up Glen Rd that brings you out to the peninsula oppositeKippford if the weather is any good.


Dalbeattie Civic Daze are organising a Flower andProduce Show in Dalbeattie Town Hall for the first time inmore than 20 years. This amazing event will take place onSunday the 28th August from 1pm till 4.30 pm. There willbe a presentation of Winners trophies, Children'scategories, Refreshments and a Raffle. It is hoped also tohave some Arts and Crafts on sale. Programmes will beavailable from Dalbeattie Information Centre in the HighStreet opposite the Library.

The last Flower and Produce Show in Dalbeattie took place in 1989. It was know then as DalbeattieCivic Flower Show and the Ciivc Queen presented the prizes. Gradually, however, there was a loss ofinterest and the show folded. The prizewinner's Cups and Trophies have been kept safe, however, andthese will again be put to good use, along with some new ones for any new categories.The organisers of this year's event are a sub-committee of Civic Daze which comprises Robert Kirk,Alison Elkins, Alex Miller, Margaret Anderson, Peter Dowden, Samantha Campbell and Alana Russell.Additionally it is hoped that the Allotment Association will play an active part in proceedings, and thatsome school children are encouraged to become involved. The sub-committee will also work closelywith Albert Muir of Glenshalloch Road, who was one of the leading lights in the earlier Shows and wonmany prizes. Many of the participants then are sadly now no longer with us.Robert Kirk, one of the present sub-committee, won the Wallis Rose Bowl in 1989, and is delighted thatthe event has been revived. All these helpers are hoping that if all goes well with this year's Show - andthere's no reason to doubt that - this will once again become an annual event.Details at www.dalbeattiematters.co.uk, www.dalbeattiedaze.org.uk

This historic image is taken from anoriginal photograph recently copied forthe Stewartry Museum collection inKirkcudbright. It shows a horse-drawngrass mower thought to be in action ona farm in Rerrick parish about 1905.This piece of machinery was muchfaster and less labour intensive thancutting the grass with scythes.Mechanical mowers came into generaluse in Lowland Scotland from the1850s. Note the boy walking alongbehind the reaper carrying a rake tokeep the reaper clear of cut grass, whichmight otherwise jam the cuttingapparatus. Once cut and dried, thegrass would be gathered and then madeinto hay ricks or rucks, which could thenbe moved to the farm yard.

Mowing in Rerrick

Contributed by David Devereux, Curator, Stewartry Museum, St Mary St, Kirkcudbright, www.dumgal.gov.uk/museums

Dalbeattie CivicFlower Show 2011


As part of Kirkcudbright's 'Summer Festivities' programme the Art & Crafts Trail,which has been running successfully now for seven years, takes you into hiddengardens, artists' studios, homes and even sheds not normally open to the public,where you will be able to talk to some of the artists and craftspeople to find out whatmakes Kirkcudbright special for them. Trail venues are open daily from 11.00amuntil 5.00pm. Catch the Free Trail Bus to venues outside the centre area.

This year we have extended to four days as there isso much going on! We are proud to be a familyfriendly event with lots of 'fun' things to do.

Why not send a 'Message in a Bottle', pose on thePlinth, make a kite, throw a pot, have a go at 'Wash-ing Line Art' or maybe even 'You've Been Framed'.The choices are endless.

Take the opportunity to visit around 75 differentvenues and meet some of the 180 or so partici-pants as you wander around the picturesque Art-ists' town of Kirkcudbright nestling on the River DeeEstuary..

Kirkcudbright is steeped in history and has been the homeof many famous artists over the years including E A Hor-nel and the 'Glasgow Boys', Jessie M King and her hus-band E A Taylor, Charles Oppenheimer, William Robsonand David Sassoon to name a few - walk in their footstepsand visit some of the venues where they livedand worked. Three fine exhibitions reflecting the impor-tance of Kirkcudbright's art heritage will be on display overthe Trail.

Contact Pauline Saul [email protected] and seewebsite www.artandcraftstrail.co.uk


Dalbeattie MattersDalbeattie Community Initiative

Volunteering is a great way to get back to a working routine if you havebeen out of work for a while. It is also an opportunity to meet with otherpeople and at the same time do something useful that is of benefit to thetown. Dalbeattie Community Initiative can offer a range of volunteeringopportunities but our biggest need is for Environmental Volunteers, peoplewho enjoy working outdoors, undertaking tasks such as pathways maintenance,drainage ditch clearance, cutting back undergrowth, weeding as well as habitatmanagement and wildlife recording. If you are interested, please get in touchon 01556-612518.

The eighth annual Dalbeattie HardrockChallenge takes place over the weekend of 1st &2nd October in Dalbeattie Forest. This ever popularevent involves a ten mile run followed by a sixteenmile ride over the granite strewn 7stanes mountainbike trails. There are both junior and seniorsections. Participants come from all over the UnitedKingdom to take part and it is very much apermanent fixture on the sporting calendar. Theevent is open for entries which can be made onlineat www.sientries.co.uk or for further details checkthe website at www.dalbeattiehardrockchallenge.org

Don’t forget the Dalbeattie WalkingFestival which takes place fromThursday 18th to Sunday 21st August.Sunshine has been ordered for this fourthannual festival which offers a range ofwalks and activities exploring the rich anddiverse natural and industrial heritage inand around the town. A Walks programmeand further information can be obtainedfrom the Initiative office at 71 HighStreet, Dalbeattie.Telephone 01556-612518.

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Mersehead Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife nestled on theedge of the Solway Coast, with fantastic views and a wide,sweeping beach, this truly is a place to come and let the worriesof modern life slip away.When they first arrive, visitors are met at the visitor centre byfriendly staff and volunteers, where they can find out a bit moreabout the reserve and any events running that day. There’s alsoa comfy viewing area looking out onto open farmland and ourdriftwood feeding station, always busy with small birds! Next tothe visitor centre is the Sulwath Centre, a converted farmhouseoffering life-long learning and meeting facilities. This is alsowhere our team of residential volunteers live during their stay.Heading out onto the reserve, visitors can take a stroll along ourWetland Trail to one of two hides, listening to the sights andsounds of summer all around. The hides look out over thewetland area and reed bed and offer fabulous views of Criffel.For the more adventurous, there’s the Coastal Trail, an hour longwalk that takes you over the merse, which gives us our reserveits name. This wide, open saltmarsh attracts nesting skylarksand lapwings, so keep your ears open for their calls and song. Asmall climb over the sand dunes and the beach opens out infront of you, a colossal space, reclaimed by the sea many yearsago. Evidence of the old field systems that once stood here canstill be seen as well as an abundance of shells. A stroll along thebeach brings visitors back through another wooded area.This summer we have a wide range of free family events atMersehead, with every Wednesday in August being a “WildWednesday”. There will be different workshops runningthroughout August including “Hedgerow Hunt” and “BeautifulButterflies”, and every Friday in August sees the return of ourpopular Family Fun Fridays with beach art competitions, treasuretrails and more! Both events run 11-4pm. Booking is essentialfor Wild Wednesday workshops as we have limited spaces,however no need to book for Family Fun Fridays.RSPB Mersehead is situated on the A710 Solway Coast road, 12miles from Dalbeattie, between Sandyhills and Southerness. To

Claim A Free Ice CreamPresent this coupon to RSPB Mersehead

Terms & conditions: Free ice cream offer only available at theRSPB Mersehead reserve. Please hand in this coupon to

redeem. One coupon is equal to one ice cream. Offer subject toavailability and ends on Wednesday 31st August.

Some products may be excluded. Coupons must be originals.No photocopies will be accepted. Coupons are non-transferable

book on our Wild Wednesday events or tofind out more about the reserve please call01387 780579/ 780298 or [email protected] Mersehead VisitorCentre is open daily 10am – 5pm. So whetheryou’ve visited us before or whether this will beyour first visit come down to see us soon foryour own magical Mersehead moment.

Free Ice-Cream


The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds is a registeredcharity: England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland SC037654

Sue Blain discusses whatto eat if you want to conceive

If you want to try for a baby you’ll want it to be healthy,so plan to be as close to optimum health as you can.My basic nutritional advice is to eat right and eat raw.Eat highly nutritious food, preferably organic and onlywhat you need and not necessarily what you want!

Please mention when answering an advertLINKTheStewartry14

Trying fora Baby?

The most important supplement to consider is folic acid. This helps to prevent neural tubedefects, such as spina bifida. Take it in a supplement designed for preconception.Avoid problem foods. Intolerances can interfere with the proper absorption of vitamins andminerals, such as zinc and manganese, which are essential to optimum fertility.Statistics suggest that if one parent has allergies, there is a 50% chance of their child having anallergy and it’s almost a certainty if both have them. It is therefore important to remove any foodsthat could be the source of these allergies. Artificial pesticides and additives can cause oraggravate allergic reactions and contribute to hyperactivity, so eat organic where possible.Eat at least one salad meal a day and snack on fresh fruit, raw vegetable sticks and juices toobtain essential enzymes often destroyed in cooking.Both parents may need to detox and reduce any excess fat (where many harmful toxins arestored) at least 6 months before conception. It is best not to diet during pregnancy or whenbreast-feeding. Begin by cutting alcohol, caffeine, hydrogenated fats, refined foods high in saltand sugar and processed foods for a week. Eat more salads, fruit & veg and drink mineral waterand herb teas between meals. Continue for another week, also avoiding dairy products, meat andwheat, oats and rye (try brown rice, quinoa, rice milk and fish instead). Use milk thistle complex tosupport the liver if you’re feeling a bit sluggish and a chromium supplement if you’re sufferingfrom extreme sugar cravings.Gradually re-introduce the different food groups, one each day. This is a good time to discover foryourself any foods you may be intolerant to. Once restored to optimum health, develop a personalhealthy eating and drinking plan, similar to week one of the detox and avoid any problem foods.Some women may be deficient in B vitamins, zinc and other minerals, especially if they havebeen on the contraceptive pill or fertility drugs. The best sources of zinc include meat, shellfishand salmon. For vegetarians, pumpkin seeds offer one of the most concentrated non-meat foodsources of zinc and also Brewer’s yeast, eggs, beans, and wholegrain cereals. Excellent sourcesof manganese include leafy veg, carrots, fruit, seeds, garlic, beans, spices and wholegraincereals.For more advice on nutrition and supplements, check out Foresight, the Association for thePromotion of Pre- conception care, at www.foresight-preconception.org.uk (01243 868001) andwww.patient.co.uk

The Natural Therapy Q&A section has been temporarily suspended. Pleasecontinue to send your queries to [email protected]


e q u i l i b r i u mR e f l e x o l o g y

Clinically trained reflexologistexperienced in a wide range of health

issues and specialising in stress anxietyand sleep disorders

Now practising at Prana140-142 King Street

Castle Douglas 01556 503652www.equilibrium.vpweb.co.uk

Photographic

01556 504 [email protected]

Weddings

www.greenleafphotographicstudios.com

Part-timeSales Position

Do you get on well with people?Do you have a nice friendly manner on thephone and are happy talking to strangers?Are you looking for a bit extra money with

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Hours to suit - Work from homeSelf employed basis

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has access to email and a phone and whoknows or is interested in the local community .

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Urr ValleyHotel

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Set in 14 acres of mature woodland and gardens,we are perfectly situated for a spot of lunch, thatspecial evening meal or the biggest day of

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It’s International Left Handers Day!

I blame the Bible! You see, the good are considered to be at God’s right hand and his righthand is exalted, ergo the left hand doesn’t quite measure up. Then there’s the Devil: he’susually depicted as being left-handed and generally appears on the left of religious paintings.We even throw salt over our left shoulder to ‘Shoot the Devil in the eye.’

In medieval times we might have been accused of witchcraft. Yes fellow lefties, it could havebeen a painful death for us.

As late as the 1970’s there was little evidence of enlightened thinking at my village primary. Iwas ‘encouraged’ to sit on my left hand and use my right...with predictable results. My writingwas so bad that I was written off as ‘a bit thick’.

My teacher told my mother that my fine motor co-ordination was poor because I couldn’t cutout neat paper shapes. I didn’t know it at the time but school technology was against me. Theblade position of normal scissors means that a left-hander can’t see the cutting line and thenatural squeezing motion of the left hand actually pushes the blades apart, causing the paperor card to get stuck sideways. Try it for yourself and see!

But I’m not bitter...at least they didn’t burn me at the stake!

The 13th of August is International Left-Handers Day. Launched in 1992, it is now an annualevent where left-handers everywhere can celebrate their sinistrality (that’s the posh word forleft-handedness) and increase public awareness of the disadvantages of being left handed,and also the advantages, because there are quite a few. In many sports for instance, weseem to have an advantage. Left-footed soccer players and tennis players find it easy towrong-foot an opponent. A right-handed player is used to ‘like-handed’ opponents who play asimilar game. A lefty will have faced more right-handers and thus be used to their "opposite"style of play.

We’re also more creative, possibly due to the way our brains are wired:The left half of thebrain, which controls the right hand, is also responsible for speech, language, writing, logicand numerical thinking.

The right half, which controls the left hand, is alsoresponsible for music, art, creativity, perception, spatialawareness and emotions.

I’ve learned to embrace my left-handedness over theyears. It’s part of who I am and I’m pleased to announcethat since I purchased a pair of left-handed scissors Ican now cut out neat paper shapes with the best ofthem!

he’s a right Lefty!

In my time I’ve been called keck-fisted, caggy-handed and even acuddy-wifter and all because of thehand I use to hold my pen!

The list of famous left-handed people is endless…


Recipe of the Month:

Ingredients:

For the SalmonTail end of salmon6 leaves of gelatineFinely chopped parsley and dill

Salmon MethodTrim the salmon taking care to removeall of the skin and leavening just the salmon flesh.Cut the salmon tail length ways, down the middle.Spread out the chopped parsley and dill onto cling film, then on one side near the edge place one ofthe pieces of salmon, put on top the leaf gelatine then the other peace of salmon, the opposite wayround so that you get a thin end on top of a thick end.Then pull the cling film around the salmon to make a sausage shape, with the herbs around the out-side.Put into a deep sided dish filled with water so that the salmon is submerged, put into an oven at65/70 % c for around one hour 30 minutes. Once cooked place into a fridge over night until set.

Aioli Method1 Put the egg yolks, vinegar and mustard in a bowl. Season well and stand the bowl onto a dampcloth. Whisk well until smooth and creamy.2 Dip a teaspoon into the oil and trickle a drip or two from the tip of the spoon into the yolks. Whiskthe mixture hard as you add the oil.3 Repeat several times, adding the oil drip by drip. Then gradually increase the amount of oil, mak-ing sure each new addition is well incorporated before adding the next. This ensures that you pro-duce a thick mayonnaise. If your mayonnaise curdles, simply whisk another egg yolk with a pincheach of salt, pepper and mustard in separate bowl. Whisk the curdled mixture into the extra yolk mix-ture and it should emulsify.4 peel the garlic by laying each clove in turn on a board and placing a large heavy-bladed knife flaton top. Smash your fist down on top to crush the clove and you`ll find the skin slips off easily.5 Chop and sprinkle with the salt. Crush the garlic to a fine pulp using the tip of the knife.6 beat this into the mayonnaise, crushing in the saffron strands as you mix. Season with salt andpepper and serve with the salmon.

For the Aioli2 egg yolks1 tsp white wine vinegar300ml ground nut oilSea salt and ground black pepper10 cloves fresh garlicPinch of saffron strandsPurée of cooked fennel ½ bulbs

Poached Salmon & Lemon AioliThis was one of the recipes being demonstrated for Food Town Day, so if youmissed the event here’s a taster of what was going on…


Serving light lunches, homemade cakes,tray bakes, Mocca d`Or Coffee as wellas a new selection of gifts and cards.

Open 10.30am – 4.00pm Wednesday - SundayClosed Monday & Tuesday

Tel: 01556630228

Located on the A710 in Colvend

Cafe & Restaurant

The

King St, Castle Douglas - 4 shops down from the main car park on the left

Choose the Mad Hatter for ourwarm welcome and relaxed atmosphere

Children and dogs welcomeBaby changing facilitiesOpen Monday to SaturdayTel: 01556 502712

Stay a while, or if you’re in ahurry we provide a take-away service too

greatvaluefoodMad Hatter

01644 460211

Take out available.Ring your order

ready for collection

Mon-Fri 7:00 - 6:00Saturday 8:00 - 6:00Sunday 9:00 - 5:00

Come and discover the secret in CarsphairnCarricks of Carsphairn

Stag Tea Room & Garden

Open all year round with wonderful viewsOur menu has something for everyone

Home made Pies, Scones & Soups

Main St, Carsphairn, DG7 3TQ

Convenience store for daily essentialsPost Office open Mon - Sat, 11:00 - 1:00

Bikers Welcome

Opening Times:Mon - Sat: 10:00 - 5:30Sunday: 12:00 - 5:0001556 620201

TheArk

Grab a picnic on yourtravels or just browsein our lovely gift area.We look forward toseeing you. The Ark

Summer Time

at The Ark, Kippford

GroceriesFresh VegetableInstore Bakery

Off LicenseAward Winning Local Meat

Local Speciality FoodsSeasonal Goods

Colvend Shopa great range.... locally

Colvend Shop, Near Dalbeattie. DG5 4QD01556 630 228

[email protected]

Open Mon-Sat 8am - 6pmSunday Apr - Sep 8am - 6pm Oct - Mar 8am - 2pm


CatStrand’sCultural Section

At Catstrand throughout the summer months we’ll becontinuing to offer a high quality performing arts programmefor you to enjoy on your doorstep in Dumfries and Gallowaybut with the school holidays approaching will also be focusingon ensuring that there are many opportunities for both youngpeople and adults to get involved.Once again, this summer we will be welcoming tutors fromthe Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow.Dramaworks –is the Academy’s drama programme forchildren and adults which operates outside of their degreecourses This year the theme is ‘ Front Page’ with participantstaking inspiration from the daily news headlines. They willwork together as a performance company to devise a brandnew piece of theatre inspired by this theme. It is hoped that

through the course young people will gain not only performance skills but also investigative,communication and team work skills as well, of course, as having a good time. The courseruns from 1st – 5th August.

On 20th August young people can come and experience a Circus Dance Fantastique withMargaret Morris Movement. This a FREE taster day filled with dance and arts workshops thattake inspiration from the circus. There are sessions for 3-4 year olds, 5-7 year olds and thoseaged 8-15 who will have the opportunity to learn and perform a full Cirque de Soleil inspiredchoreography for ages 8 – 15. For those of you who can’t get enough of dance, thesechildren’s dance classes will continue throughout term time.

Also happening during term time is our monthly Saturday Art Club on the second Saturday ofevery month ( 10am – 12noon, £4), a two hour workshop led by professional artists &teachers and filled with fun filled visual arts & crafts activities.The theme of this year’s adult summer art masterclass is Collage and Textiles with artist MaryPugh. This four day workshop will explore different ways to introduce texture into your artwork, working with textured paper, fabric, gesso & paint sticks. The course runs from 15th –18th August (£160 inc materials & lunch).This is just a flavour of what’s happening so please do pick up a copy of our Events Guide ,have a look at www.catstrand.com or give us a call on 01644 420 374 for information onthese or other opportunities this summer.


Cultural Section

Scot

tish

Show

case

Gal

lery Showcasing the very best of Scottish

art and crafts from all over Scotland

Over 600 original works byestablished and new artists,limited edition prints, pictureframing, art materials & cards.Riverside Mills, Beaconsfield Place,Kirkcudbright, Dumfries & Galloway,DG6 4DP Tel: 01557 339400 (24 hrs.)

Open 7 days 10am-5pmSun 12noon-4pm

www.showcasegallery.co.uk

Barons Craig, Rockcliffe, DG5 4QF

RockcliffeGallery

Where you will find apassion for fine food,wine and indulgence.

[email protected] www.baronscraighotel.co.uk

01556 630225

A small friendly art gallery, affiliated withBarons Craig Hotel, displaying a varied

programme of local and international artists,both new and established.

Free Admission, 7 days a week - 9am to 9pm

01556 630225Private viewings [email protected] www.rockcliffegallery.co.uk

Barons Craig HotelR O C K C L I F F E

Now available at

Ice-Cream12 different flavours

Free toppings and sauce

Luxury:~Gifts~Cards~Confectionary

Post Office100 King StreetCastle Douglas01556 502577


Outdoors…

The Galloway Kite Trail is a community-basedproject, involving local businesses, volunteers,public bodies, land owners, local groups andfarmers. It provides an exciting opportunity to

Connecting Communitieswith Red Kites

view spectacular red kites in lovely scenery and is now attracting the attention ofwalkers, cyclists, wildlife lovers and birdwatchers in Dumfries and Galloway and frommuch further afield. The trail is an oasis of natural beauty and activities, whichprovide many things to see and do. It is an ideal base for a holiday and can also be agreat way for the people of Stewartry to relax or become more involved, so to find out more, read on.These birds of prey were reintroduced around Loch Ken between 2001 and 2005, after being absentfor over 130 years. In 2003, the same year that kites began to nest in Galloway, the trail waslaunched as a source of nature-based tourism to benefit local communities in the area. It has helpedstrengthen the 'ownership' of the kites by local communities and has resulted in the kites increasingand spreading into other parts of the region. The trail is run as a partnership between RSPB Scotland,Forestry Commission Scotland and Anne Johnstone of Bellymack Hill Farm along with localbusinesses and tourism providers.Between 2007 and 2010, the Sulwath Connections Landscape Partnership Project (part funded byThe Heritage Lottery Fund, Scottish Natural Heritage, RSPB and Dumfries & Galloway Council)funded a full time community liaison officer for three years. The project also funded the creation ofnew information points and interpretation in villages around the trail; an activity for children – TheKids’ Kite Quest; and the creation of an audio guide and leaflet, also supported by local businesses.Working with local communities and businesses has enabled the trail to go from strength to strength.Public spend from European, national and local government has helped generate this successfulproject and in turn, has helped increase spend by visitors in the local area. In the first six years, over£21 million was spent in the region by people visiting the trail, £2.6 million of which was from thosecoming specifically for red kites, thus benefiting these birds and the local people alike.There are viewing areas and walks to provide good chances of seeing kites. Visitors can experiencethe ‘Secret Cages’, where kites were first released back into Galloway. The route is signposted withdistinctive brown road signs and unique information shelters sculpted in green oak by local artist, AlexRigg. The feeding station at Bellymack Hill Farm near Laurieston, provides a feast for the eyes, whereover 100 kites have been seen together when kites are fed at 2pm, all year round.Now in its eighth year, the trail continues to be improved and supported by the RSPB, part financedby the Scottish Government and the European Community, Dumfries and Galloway LEADER 2007-2013 Programme and SNH. Calum Murray (RSPB community liaison officer on the trail) is looking forhelp to pass on information to businesses and visitors. If you, your school, group or business wouldlike to get more involved then please get in touch. There are also guided events taking place through-out the year. More information is available on the trail website at www.gallowaykitetrail.com or contactthe RSPB on 01556 670464. - Photos kindly supplied by Ian Saunders


The Ultimate Land-Yacht ExperienceLocations across

Dumfries and Galloway

Prices from£28.50pp

www.f5karting.com - [email protected]

07841208862

/F5.ExtremeBeachSports

The Food Train is a local charity and voluntary organisation providing a weeklyservice delivering groceries to older people living in Dumfries and Galloway. Anyolder person living in D&G who has difficulty doing their grocery shopping due toill health, disability, frailty or mobility problems can enjoy the benefits of theirlocal Food Train.

Every week volunteers collect shopping lists from our customers, in person or byphone. Volunteer shoppers make the orders up in the shop, and they arepacked in boxes complete with the till receipt and the original list. The order isthen collected by other delivery volunteers, and on receipt customers pay fortheir shopping plus a £2 charge for each delivery (and £1 a year membership).In the Stewartry we shop in the Castle Douglas Co-op and in Sunrise.

People can refer themselves, or be referred by others and enrolling is easy: there is no assessmentprocess and no application form to fill in. The Food Train is flexible and easy to use, and a phone call to

the branch office is all it takes to set it up. It can be used weekly,fortnightly or monthly; it can be used short term while recoveringfrom an illness, or for as long as it’s needed.

Your local branch office is in Kirkcudbright, phone number 01557332444 - you may be answered by an answering machine, butmessages are checked regularly and someone will return yourcall. You can also email [email protected] and ourwebsite address is www.thefoodtrain.co.uk .

Please remember, if you are an older person struggling with yourgrocery shopping you can let the Food Train take the strain.

You may have seen the Food Train vans out and about– but do you know what we do?

· Fishing Tackle· Frozen Bait· Live Bait· Clay Pigeons· Cartridges· Riffle Ammo· Air Rifles

M. McCowan & SonSports Goods

www.mmccowanandson.co.uk

50 King StreetCastle Douglas01556 502009

43 High StDalbeattie01556 610270


This year, the 201st Anniversaru sees the first womanpresident of the show, Mrs Fiona Dickson. Along side heris Senior Vice President: Mr Brian Yates and Junior VicePresident; Mr Kenny Campbell.

The Committee covers Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbright,Dalbeattie, Gatehouse of Fleet and Glenkens Districts. In total there are 67 peopleon the Society committee. All Office bearers have a 2 year term and Fiona hasstarted her first year.This year 3 new Honorary preidents were added. makinga total of 7. 2 of which have OBE and 1 has a MBE. Theyare:

� John A Houston� Adam Gray OBE� Andrew Dunlop OBE� Myrna Corrie MBE

65th Show

201st

Anniversary

The Stewartry Agricultural Society is committedto helping all aspects of agriculture and the ruralenvironment in the Stewartry of Kirkcudbright

So much to see, so little time: 7 stanes Mountain Bike Display Team -DG Life’s Challenge Alison - Dog Agility, Local STARS dog agility group- Grand Parade of Livestock - Open Companion Dog Show (entries takenon the day by 12noon) - Livestock judging - Floral Art and Homecrafts -

Children’s Entertainment - Craft Marquee - Farmers Market Avenue -Shopping & Trade Stands - Vintage Tractors - Show Jumping

Come and join us at Stewartry Rugby Club Ground, Greenlaw Castle DouglasDG7 2PW - Free Bus running hourly from Market Hill Car park, Entrance fee

payable at Gate, Special rates for Children, OAPs and Families (new for2011) Ample Car parking

Visit our website for more information www.stewartryshow.co.uk Or contact the Show’s Secretary on 07794719526

Thursday, 4th of August

� Robin Dunlop� Charles Mckerlie� Robert Graham

StewartryAgricultural Show


14 St. Andrew Street • Stranraer • DG9 7EB

c o n t a c t u s n o w 0 1 7 7 6 7 0 2 5 5 1t o s e e w h a t c a n d o f o r y o u .

From pre-press to press to finishing our planthas the latest in state of the art Heidelberg

Graphics Technology.FP commercial print is a new service offered by one of

south west Scotland’s most prestigious and oldestmedia publishers, Stranraer & Wigtownshire Free Press

established in 1843.We understand the need for a modern business topromote itself and its products accurately, imaginativelyand above all successfully.

We offer a bespoke service catering to the individualneeds of each client and we believe each client to be an

individual, not a number in a process.

Free Press commercial print brings high quality, low costcolour printing within the reach of businesses large and small.From start to finish we are fully equipped to carry out any of

your colour printing requirements.

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THE Computer Specialist

>Qualified with over 20 years experience>New Systems supplied & Installed>Computer Repairs & Upgrades>Business or Home Systems>Personal Tuition>Data Recovery

07923 282712

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Need a bigger house?

Architectural Services

Extending could be less expensive and less [email protected] Jones

· Planning & Building Warrants· Free Site Survey· Free Estimate

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Hannah Smith

SERENITYBookkeeping

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Serenity Bookkeeping has several yearsexperience in all aspects of small businessaccounts for several local businesses, this

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Put some Serenity back into your business andlet me take care of all your accounting needs

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Sage SoftwareVAT returnsWage RunsInvoicing

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Garden ViewAugust ~ Microorganisms

As their name suggests you can’t see them, yetmicroorganisms are some of the most important thingsyou can grow in your garden.

Garden soil is teeming with millions of them, or rather itshould be. They help to keep the soil healthy. Theydecompose organic matter, replenish soil nutrients, formhumus, promote root growth, increase nutrient uptake,

26

and breakdown herbicides and pesticides.

The microorganism family includes bacteria, algae, fungi, and protozoa and we want todo everything we can to encourage these tiny gardening friends.

In order to provide a good environment we need to provide oxygen, moisture, carbon-based food matter, and the right temperature and pH.

Oxygen content can be kept high by digging in lots of organic matter so that the soilstructure is aerated. 75% of microorganisms live in the top two inches (5cm) of soil soparticular care should be taken not to compact the topsoil. Improving the drainage ofstodgy clay soil is particularly important as water-logged soil contains very little oxygen.

Mulching helps to improve the moisture content of soil and also helps to maintain the soiltemperature. Bare soil bakes in the summer and freezes in the winter. Mulch acts asboth shade and insulation so the temperature remains more constant.

Carbon-based food matter is just a posh way of saying ‘organic matter, including greenmanure and well-rotted compost. This provides a gourmet buffet for microorganisms andthey’ll reproduce rapidly.

Finally, pH is probably the most difficult area to tackle. Most gardens have a natural pHrange beyond which they’re not going to change much. So someone living on alimestone ridge, as I do, is never going to be able to grow acid-loving Azaleas, except inpots.

But that’s not what we’re trying to achieve when creating a favourable environment formicroorganisms. We don’t need to radically shift the pH, we just need to modify it slightly.

There are pH modifiers on the market, but the best way of doing it is slowly by digging incompost or other organic matter. Organic matter acts as a neutraliser and will workwhether your soil is acidic or alkaline. It is particularly important for alkaline soils likemine, because they have far fewer bio-available nutrients so become impoverished veryquickly.

This month give some thought to encouraging your microorganisms. Your plants willthank you.


LandscapingBest in town for

InspirationalDisplays*Quality LandscapingProductsReliable DeliveryServiceExpert AdviceMarshalls PavingPlanner Service

Visit us at: Castle Douglas branch, Block 5,Blackpark Road, Castle Douglas, DG7 1DJTel: 01556 505320 Fax: 01556 505319

Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 7.30am - 5pm, Sat 8am - 12noon

www.keyline.co.uk*Available at selected branches.Check with your local branch for details.

01644 430495

Peter: 07708 004757Jonathan: 0776 779 5498

Free EstimatesAgricultural& Domestic

Fencing

Nether CleughDalry, DG7 3UA

FHB

WOODWORMWET ROT, DRY ROTRISING DAMPBASEMENT WATERPROOFINGMASONRY REPAIRS & PLASTERINGGENERAL BUILDING WORKPROPERTY MAINTENANCE10 20 30 YEAR GUARANTEES

6 Abercromby RdCastle DouglasDG7 1AY

DAMP PROOF INJECTION, TIMBER TREATMENT

TEL: 01556 505893MOB: 07730 449917

DUNCAN BURNS

APPROVED

SOVEREIGN

CONTRACTOR

Simple Safe StrongTel: 01556 504888www.rancher-equipment.co.uk

RancherDecorative IronworkYour wish is our command

Balconies, Gates, RailingsGive us a visit to discuss your needs1 & 2 Carlingwark St, Castle Douglas

Tel: 01556 504888www.rancher-equipment.co.uk

STEWARTRY TYRESOakwell Road Castle Douglas DG7 1JY

TYRES BATTERIES EXHAUSTS BRAKES

Castle DouglasNewton StewartCastle DouglasNewton Stewart

01556 50377701671 40111201556 50377701671 401112


Puzzle Page

Across 7 Felt hat (6) 8 Rhythmic literary work (6) 9 Benefit (4) 10 Causing erosion (8) 11 Tidal wave (7) 13 Period of time (5) 15 Creep (5) 16 Looks after teeth (7) 18 Restrain (8) 19 Suspicious (4) 21 Care-giver (6) 22 Shoe inner (6)

Down 1 Relinquish (4) 2 Pie fruit (7,6) 3 Philosophical guide (7) 4 Upset (5) 5 247° 30' clockwise from

north (4,9) 6 Sobriety (8) 12 Unique (8) 14 Eruptive (7) 17 Profundity (5) 20 Guise (4)

Sudoku: Each Row, Column and 3x3 square mustcontain every number from 1 to 9 with no duplicates

Crossword


June Solutions

Sudoku: EasySudoku: Tough Tents

We are looking for some SIGs! … Special Interest Groups, for our newregular feature. So if you run, attend or know of any interesting clubs,

classes or social groups. Anything from keep-fit to books, photography to playingthe bongos, yoga to boxing. We would like to feature one SIG a month and start to post

details on the web-site. Get in touch and let people know who and where you are by [email protected] with your details and preferably a photo of the group or activity.

SIGs!

This month we have two more clubs from Dalbeattie area. Don’t forget anyone can send in details of theirspecial interest group or club. This is purely to let residents know what things might be interesting to getinvolved in.

Here we have John Moran, the Secretary of theDalbeattie Angling Association, founded in1919. To the right are some salmon justspawned. John was telling me earlier in the yearthey gave St John’s Primary School 100 eggs tolook after, of which 99 survived and wasreleased into the wild.If you are interested in getting involved theymeet every 3rd Wednesday at the Kings ArmsHotel. Please contact John for more informationon 07778 140569

Bob & Grace Laidlaw, and Keith Miles are members of theDalbeattie Tea Dance Club. They meet at the Dalbeattie TownHall, 2-4pm most Mondays. The regular sessions are not due tostart until September but they have a couple of dates fixed forAugust as part of their Summer sessions. August the 8th &22nd, same time and place.They do mainly sequence dancing though there is someballroom, line and old time included.For further information please contact Bob on 01556 504151

Go Fish

Care to Dance?

Emergencies� Police - dial 999� Fire Brigade - 01387 263921 or dial 999� Ambulance - 01387 267144 or dial 999� Coastguard - 01557 331133 or dial 999� Mountain Rescue - dial 999� Environmental Protection - 0800 80 70 60� Dumfries & Galloway Council - 01387 260000� Childline - Freefone 0800 1111� Samaritans - 01387 253555� Rape Crisis Centre - 01387 253113 / 01776 889331� Scottish Gas - 01387 268010� Scottish Power Emergency - 0845 2727 999

Health Services� Castle Douglas Clinic: Medical Group - 01556 505900� Castle Douglas Clinic: Dr Carson & Partners - 01556 502050� Castle Douglas Community Hospital - 01556 502333� Castle Douglas Dental Practice - 01556 503348� Cresswell Maternity Hospital - 01387 246246� Dalbeattie Clinic - 01556 610331� Dalbeattie Dental Practice - 01556 610917� Dumfries & Galloway Royal Infirmary - 01387 246246� Frendz Crisis Pregnancy Centre, Dumfries 01387 252288� Kirkcudbright Clinic - 01557 330755� Kirkcudbright Community Hospital - 01557 330549� Kirkcudbright Pharmacist - 01557 332088� Newton Stewart Community Hospital - 01671 402015

General Information� Citizens Advice Bureau - 01556 502190� Food Train - 01557 332444� Narcotics Anonymous 24hr Helpline - 0141 2487101� Alcoholics Anonymous 24 Hr Helpline - 0345 697555� Family Mediation Service - 01387 263185� Trading Standards 01387 260092

Have we got the phone numbers right? Is there a useful number that has beenmissed off the list? Please contact Jo, 07875 209927, [email protected]

Useful phone numbers:

Please mention when answering an advertLINKTheStewartry30


LARGE JOBS OR SMALL: HIGH QUALITYELECTRICAL WORK IN YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS

FAST RESPONSE INSTALLATIONAND REPAIR

VALLEY VIEW COTTAGE, TARFFKIRKCUDBRIGHT

Telephone: 0782 744 0320

GallowayElectrical Services

07787 173990

Painter & Decorator

01556 505849

Brian McConnell

RMHardwood Logs

DalbeattieHalf Load £50 Full Load £80

Seasoned

07827 736500

RABCORDER07810 218865

01556 505864

Affordable Prices - Quality Bathrooms www.rabcorder.co.ukThe Bathroom Specialist

Unit 1 Station Yard, Oakwell RdCastle Douglas, DG7 1LA

New Show Room Now Open!

2 Bed Flat to Rent - DumfriesRecently refurbished,

sandstone groundfloor flat in a quietleafy cul-de-sac.

Walking distance fromtown centre Shareddrying green plus

private garden. Largeliving room, kitchen,bathroom and twodouble bedrooms.

£450 p/calendar month07875 209927 for details


For Corporate and Wedding Entertainment

Traditional Scottish tunes, mixed with infectiously funky grooves and through the ages classic tracksTo make sure everyone at your event is catered for.

100% Live MusicWilling to travel UK wide

Female and Male VocalistsWide-ranging Selection of Music

Ceilidh with Caller and Live Fiddle10 years Event Management Experience

Special Requests learned for your special night

0131 4666 561 [email protected] www.corramusic.com.

The Stewartry

Wedding Show

August 2011

Documents

Transcript of August 2011