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Working for Lochmaben

Lochmaben Royal Burgh Pipe Band

*

2nd place at the British Championships at Bathgate in May, 2014.

Crowned United Kingdom Champions in their Section in Belfast on June 14, 2014.

5th place Scottish Championships at Dumbarton in July, 2014.

1st Place in Qualifying then placed 2 nd in their section in the World Championships in Glasgow on August 16, 2014. (For details see p.8)

*

The Initiative is very grateful for the continuing support of The Lochmaben Community Council.

Contact us on the Website at www.lochmaben.org.uk, or by phone to 01387 810094 (Chairman) or 01387 811406 (Vice-Chairman), or in writing. Correspondence should be clearly marked for the Initiative and left at the Town Hall.

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After a very successful season, (see p.8), Lochmaben Royal Burgh Pipe Band members were delighted to hear that the RSPBA has upgraded them from grade 4a to grade 3b.

Local Hero? Five year old Lola Callander continues to collect medals as our local dancing champion and her latest win brings her total to 79 – a fantastic achievement for anyone, let alone a little girl. Lola has been dancing since she was able to walk, and with sister Freya and their dance champion mother, Kelly, must make a formidable team at any competition. Lola is determined to win another 100 medals in the coming year. Quite an ambition and we wish her well.

The fantastic sum of £6650 was handed over to the Breast Cancer Care Team at DGRI following the annual ‘Pink Day’ held at Lochmaben Golf Club recently. Leaders Jackie Bell and Jane Reid presented the cheque to grateful Team members.

The splendid Lochmaben War Memorial was given a clean up recently and the finished work has been much praised as it reveals the beautiful white marble carved soldier. The area is further enhanced by the lovely flower beds in front of the statue – a fitting tribute to those local lads who gave their lives in the Great War, the start of which we commemorate this year. Why not check out the latest publication from Isabelle Gow (see p12) giving a brief biography of each member of the local community who lost his life during this terrible conflict? It is a beautifully produced booklet and a fitting tribute to those men who paid the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our democratic freedom.

The vacant area behind Railway Court may be developed soon into 26 affordable houses by DGHP with access being improved via Mill Road. This project has been on-going for years but now seems set to have the green light.

Plans for a proposed chicken-rearing facility off the A709 road near Lochmaben are still very much in the early stages. The developer has assured local residents that increased traffic would be ‘minimal’ and that up to 4 jobs might be created if the unit gets clearance from the planning authority. The units would be screened as best as possible to reduce visual impact.

Work has started on updating the street lighting along the High Street with the latest LED light system. This gives a much truer, whiter light and greatly reduces the side scatter and energy consumption for less cost. As a bonus, the area overhead becomes darker, thus improving our view of the night sky. Great for star gazing!

Research is on-going into the public right of way to the Mill Loch from Nethermill Road. The ownership of the lane, which has seen considerable incidences of littering from parked cars and visiting fishermen, seems to be lost in the mists of time. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Community Council!

Do you know that there is a heart defibrillator stationed at the sailing club?

The church hall is now being put to good use by many local user groups, settling into their winter schedules. There are still times available, particularly during the day, when other groups or individuals could make use of this comfortable, modern facility at very reasonable cost. Contact Alistair Brown on 01387 811842 for further information.

The conifer woodland from the east of Barrashead towards the Halleaths road is being clear- felled. It is a popular woodland area for dog walkers but should be negotiated with care in the meantime. There are numerous red squirrels in the wood and it will be interesting to see if they return to the adjacent row of beech trees, once the felling activity has ceased. Keep a look out for these endearing creatures.

Congratulations to Alyth Ross on winning a Robert Burns national singing competition back in April.

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Davie Shankland book now on sale "And That Reminds Me" is a book of Reminiscences by Davie's Friends and Family. Copies can be obtained from Crolla's Cafe priced £12. Scottish Old Time Dancing from Early October to end of March. Our social dance evenings start on Thursday, 2nd October 2014, 7.30pm to 9.30pm. at Royal Four Towns Hall, Hightae. Everyone is welcome--Experienced, occasional or just a sometime dancer. From Waltz and Stroll to Jigs and Reels Why not come along for a fun evening? Further information from Brian Smith 01387 810588 or e-mail brian.smith953@btinternet.com. Lochmaben AFC Well done on another successful season! Lochmaben AFC won both their League and the Queen of the South Cup this year. Lochmaben Friendship Group (over 60s) We finished off last session with our annual outing when members and friends travelled to Penrith. It was a lovely sunny day and we made our way back to Gretna where we had an excellent meal in the Solway Lodge Hotel before returning home. Our new session begins on Wednesday, September 3, at 1.30p.m. in the portacabin with the usual 'Get Together'. After the business, everyone can catch up on their summer activities. We have a talk from the Handy Van Service in October followed by a demonstration on Christmas Crafts by Norma Rae in November. In December we have our Christmas Party and everyone goes home with a gift. We usually have a visit to a Pantomime in December. To start off the New Year, we go out for our Festive Lunch. I will update the rest of the syllabus in the next Newsletter. As you will have gathered, our meetings are held monthly and new members will be made welcome. For more information contact Mary Ross on 01387 810256 Lochmaben Bowling Club The Club has enjoyed a good summer with several members having successes in various competitions at other clubs. During May, a number of pupils came for tuition from the local Primary School. The Day of the Region ‘Come and Try Day’ was greatly enjoyed, with people of all ages taking to the green to have a go at bowling. Hopefully, some will come along to join us when club activities resume in April 2015. Contact Hazel Sloan, Secretary. 01387 811830 Lochmaben Church Guild Myra Turnbull, Convenor, writes…………………. We are a group of some 40 members and our meetings are open to both men and women. The Guild meets every third Tuesday from September to May, at 7.30pm, in the Church Hall. Meetings in January and February are on the third Saturday at 2.30pm. We have a varied range of speakers lined up for this season including Mia Glendinning from Lockerbie Timebank and Barry Graham from the Camphill Community at Loch Arthur. On Sunday, November 16 , we are hosting a Soup and Sandwich lunch in the Hall in aid of two Scottish charities, “Wevolution”, which supports small groups of women to inspire innovation, enterprise and change in some of Scotland's poorest communities and “The Julius Project”, the Scottish Churches’ Housing Action Group, which helps homeless people to secure a settled life style. Why not try the Guild - you might be surprised! Women’s Rural Institute The local branch began their new season recently. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday each month in the Church Hall and new members are always welcome to come along.

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Come and join Singing for Fun (S4F) Place Lochmaben Church Hall (Side door to Back Hall). Time 7.30 pm – 8.45 pm. At 8.45 there’s a cup of tea for anyone who would like one. Dates Mondays Sept 15; 22; 29 Mondays Oct 06; 13; 27 Mondays Nov 03; 10; 17; 24 Mondays Dec 01; 08; 15; 16(last S4F for 2014) S4F starts again Monday, Jan 13, 2015. For further Information, please phone Jenny Agnew on 01387 811632 or Sheila Wade on 01387 810791 Lochmaben Action Group Lochmaben Lunch Club is keen to have volunteers to help with the preparation and serving of light lunches, teas, biscuits etc. to senior citizens every Thursday at the portacabin. Please contact 01387 810657 or 01387 810926 if you can help. The portacabin, including the use of the kitchen, is for hire. Present rates are £6.00- £4.00 and £2.80 per hour per room. Contact Helen Middleton on 01387 810926. Table Tennis---Adults

When: Tue 23 Sep 2014 2:30pm - Tue 23 Sep 2014 3:30pm

Where: Lochmaben Church Hall All age groups and abilities are welcome. There is a small charge to help pay for the hire of the hall. If you have a bat bring it along, but don’t worry if you haven’t, as we will provide them. If you want to play, just turn up, or for further information contact Colin Howe on 01387 810009. Lochmaben Tennis Club We have enjoyed a super summer of sunshine enabling us all to be out on the courts. Our Open Day early in the season went well but was cut short in the afternoon due to rain. We played mixed doubles for the Gala Berry Cup which was won by Rhona Park and Colin Howe. Rhona Park, Chad Lawson and Alex Shearman have been playing successfully in tournaments outwith the region and all took part in the South of Scotland tournament at Moffat. Coaching was held throughout the season and will be finishing at the October Holidays. Everyone at the club enjoyed another successful Day of the Region and this year’s purchases were a rebound net and a bucket of balls, hopefully to improve all our games. Our Sunday morning mixed doubles always welcomes new players so come along and join in. LOCHMABEN PRIMARY SCHOOL We have started the new school session with a roll of 243 children and nine classes. We have had a few children have moved away during the summer holidays but we appear to have filled their spaces very quickly. Currently we have four spaces available in the whole school but no space at specific stages i.e. Primary 6 or Primary 7. We have 45 children attending our Nursery class with further intakes in January & April. Our Nursery has new operating hours in line with all Local Authority Nurseries with the increase in hours from 450 per academic session to 600 hours per session. Across Dumfries & Galloway all Local Authority Nurseries are operating morning sessions from 8.45am-11.55am & afternoon session from 12.15pm-3.25pm. We finally have a new Depute Head in post as from the 18 August 18. I am delighted to advise that Miss Natalie Graham took up this post & she is already enjoying her new roles and responsibilities. Cont. /

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PENNY BOX COLLECTIONS Lochmaben Primary School has a very long tradition of supporting Save the Children by having a ‘Penny Box’ collection. This tradition was started in 1959 by the then Head teacher Mr William Turnbull. We continue with this tradition and every Thursday the ‘Penny Box’ is circulated around the classes when the children are offered the opportunity to support this cause by donating any spare coins. Last session our Penny Box and Church collections raised a total of £1271.03 which was sent directly to Save the Children. In addition to this our Penny Box also funded—£360 - £30 per month to support the Save the Children New Beginnings project. A superb effort by all! DAY OF REGION

Some of our Primary 4 pupils took part in a concert to mark the opening of the ‘Day of the Region’ weekend on Friday, September 12, in the Community Centre. The children sang beautifully and thanks to Mrs Lynne Kirton for accompanying the children on the keyboard.

YOUTH MUSIC INITIATIVE

We have been lucky enough again this year to receive singing tuition from Mrs Lynne Kirton as part of the Youth Music Initiative. This session all our children in Primary 2 & Primary 3 will participate in a 7 week block of singing this term and then a 9 week block in Term 3. Towards the end of Term 3 a Sharing Event will be held to see what the children have been learning.

PUPIL COMMITTEES

We have several Pupil Committees now established here in school :- Eco Committee, Fairtrade Group, Playground Pals, Pupil Council, SNAG, Excellence Committee & Library Committee along with the positions of House Captains & Vice Captains. These committees & positions encourage our pupils to develop their leadership skills and ensure that our pupils are participating in decision making across the school.

FUTURE SCHOOL DATES

School closes Friday 10th October

School reopens Monday 27th October

Parental Consultations Wednesday 12th & Thursday 13th November

LSA Christmas Bazaar Wednesday 26th November 7pm

Inset Day (no children) Thursday 27th November

St. Andrew’s Day Holiday Friday 28th November

Christmas Concert Wednesday 10th December 1.30pm

Christmas Concert Wednesday10th December 6.30pm

Christmas Concert Thursday 11th December 1.30pm

Christmas Concert Thursday 11th December 6.30pm

Christmas Service Friday 19th December 9.30am

School closes Friday 19th December

School reopens Monday 5th January

Holiday Monday 16th February

Inset Days (no pupils) Tuesday 17th Feb./Wednesday 18th Feb.

Primary 7 Residential Monday 23rd—Friday 27th February

School closes Thursday 2nd April

School reopens Monday 20th April

Holiday Monday 4th May

New entry (P1) Info Evening Tuesday 26th May 6.30pm

Inset Day (no pupils) Friday 29th May

Nursery Graduations/Celebrations Thursday 25th June am & pm

School closes Thursday 2nd July

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What’s in a name? In the 19th Century there were 3 churches in Lochmaben--St Magdalene’s (the current Parish Church) and 2 Free Churches--the Barras Church* and Victoria Church. The Victoria Church, at the south end of Queen Street, was formed at the Disruption in 1843 when there was a major split from the Church of Scotland. One of the members of the new Kirk Session was Andrew Johnstone of Halleaths who was engaged in rebuilding the mansion and stables on his newly purchased estate. The church was built in less than 6 months. A school was built beside the church in 1845 and was later used as the Church Hall. The manse is now the imposing Victoria House in the High Street. The Victoria and Barras Churches united in 1920 to form the congregation of St Margaret’s. The Victoria Manse was sold and the St Margaret’s minister took up residence in the Barras Manse which is the current manse of Lochmaben Parish Church. Some Lochmaben residents remember the Rechabites holding meetings in the Hall. They were a Christian group who were keen to promote total abstinence from alcohol. In 1955 St Margaret’s united with the congregation of St Magdalene’s and St Margaret’s was converted into a block of flats. A remnant of the St Margaret’s Hall with its distinctive diamond windows still remains beside the flats. Though the Church and the Hall have ceased to exist, the pews from St Margaret’s were installed in the ground floor of Lochmaben Parish Church and its War Memorial to the Fallen of 2 World Wars adorns the eastern wall of the Church.

* The history of the Barras Church can be found on P12-13 of the Community Newsletter Autumn 2013. * If anyone has a better picture of St Margaret’s than the one above, please contact Tom Russell.

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Annandale Transport Initiative Annandale Transport Initiative (ATI) is a registered Scottish

charity with the aim of providing affordable accessible transport for both individuals and for voluntary groups and organisations.

We require VOLUNTEER DRIVERS so that local community groups and individuals can go out to take part in group activities and meetings, enjoy sport, visit attractions, and attend appointments. If you enjoy driving and helping people, this is for you!

All you need is: -

a full driving licence

to be aged between 25 and 69 What we will provide: -

full training out of pocket expenses the opportunity to be part of a friendly team of volunteers helping your community

Interested? Ring 01576 203053 or E mail info@atibus.org.uk

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The minister of Lochmaben Church of Scotland, the Rev Paul Read BSc MA (Th), writes…………..

“As you read this, I have been here in Lochmaben for almost a full – very full – year! It hardly seems possible. Joy and I have met so many great people and shared many joys and sorrows. What a privilege!

I want to acknowledge that many have travelled through a journey of grief here in our Community and I want to write personally about this tender subject.

First, I want to thank all who show up and sit alongside those who grieve, showing compassion and care. When hearts are broken your presence and care is one of the evidences of the love of Jesus Christ working through you.

Second, the 11th Chapter of John’s Gospel – the one from which I quoted when we met recently at the War Memorial – shows our Lord weeping over the death of Lazarus. Tragedy and loss does not mean that God has abandoned us. What happens to other people in the world happens to us. He does not say to Martha and Mary – “It’s gonna be alright folks” – he cries.

Tears are a gift from God to us and your tears are an appropriate act for the Christian community showing that you love one another.

Third, we live with hope. There is the good news of the sustaining presence of the “Good Shepherd” of whom we have sung at many a service in our Church this past year.

Some of you, out of your own loss, have shown that God is still God and God cries with us and has not abandoned us.

When Robin Williams died recently much attention by the Media was given to the issues of “Depression”, and as a Minister in this Community I simply want to say that if this is your struggle, you are not abandoned by God.

So what do we do when that is a part of our journey through life? We act like Jesus – we have compassion and we cry with those in pain.

There is love and insight to live for and bright moments to live for and to cherish – and even the possibility of happiness and the chance of helping someone else through his or her own troubles.

So I say to you: “Let us love one another that we might persevere until that time when the light is clear again and the sun that is shining points us to the love of God which ultimately has already won the victory and will sustain us as we persist until the resurrection to come”

Know that you are always welcome at our Church. Listen for the bells – old they may be, but the message of Christ never changes.

God bless you

Yours sincerely

Paul

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Both the Lochmaben Community Council and the Lochmaben Community Initiative are becoming critically short of members. Please get in touch if you have some time you could give up to assist either organisation as it ‘works for the Lochmaben community’. CAN YOU HELP?

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Lochmaben Royal Burgh Pipe Band Alan Hope, Pipe Major, writes………………….

The band have just come to the end of another very busy season which has included playing at Dumfries Guid Nychburris, Lochmaben Gala, Moffat Gala and Kirkcudbright Tattoo. We have continued to practise two nights every week which incorporates teaching new members and improving all existing players. The band have also taken part in four out of the five major Pipe Band Championships during this year. We could not attend the European Championships due to it being held on the same day as Lochmaben Gala. However, we have just finished the band’s most successful season in competition. On May 30, the band travelled to Bathgate to compete in the British Pipe Band Championships. The band were drawn to play 10 th at 1.00 pm in a grade with 18 bands. The venue at Bathgate is very tight and compact which does not leave a lot of space for bands to tune up. It generally takes about one hour to get the band tuned up for competition, to get all the players ready and the pipes and drums tuned up. We then had to wait until 6.00 pm when all the bands march onto the arena for the announcement of the prize winners. After a tense wait, the announcement was made which revealed that the band had come 2 nd, just narrowly being beaten by 2622 Highland Squadron RAF. On June 14 the band travelled to Stormont Park, Belfast to take part in the new United Kingdom Championships, which have replaced the Cowal Pipe Band Championships in the major competition season. The band were drawn to play first at 10.30 am against 17 other bands. Stormont Park is one of the biggest parks used for a major championship and the grass surface is a joy to play on. Again the band went on and put in another good performance in front of the judges, who are made up of two listening to the piping, one listening to the drumming and one listening to the overall band sound. It was a very long wait to 7.00 pm for the announcement of the prize winners, but when it was announced “United Kingdom Champions for 2014 are Lochmaben Royal Burgh”. It was a tremendous feeling for every band member, committee member, parent and friend who had travelled to Belfast to help and support the band. On July 26, we travelled to Dumbarton for the Scottish Pipe Band Championships. Once again the band were drawn to play 1 st at 10.30 am, which meant another early start, leaving at 6.00 am. The band played reasonably well though not as well as at Bathgate and Belfast but still managed a respectable 5th place. Saturday, August 16, was the day of the World Championships in Glasgow Green and would be the biggest test yet for the wee band from Lochmaben. Another early start was required as the band were drawn to play 4 th at 9.21 am in one of two qualifying sections. There were 18 bands in each qualifying section with the top 6 bands from each section making it through to the final which was to start at 4.00 pm. The band tuned up in very changeable weather conditions but managed to put in a good performance. We then had to wait until 12.45 pm to find out if we were lucky enough to have qualified for the final. The band were eventually informed that we had made the final and would be playing 2 nd at 4.07 pm. We did not know at this time but the band were placed 1 st in the qualifying section. Once again the band went through the process of tuning up and trying to get the band at their best. With the help of all the parents and friends, who stood around the band holding umbrellas over the players when the rain was coming down, they went on and played really well. At around 8.00 pm the announcement came and we were named runners- up once again to 2622 Highland Squadron RAF. To come 2 nd in the World is a massive achievement for our band and really places the town of Lochmaben firmly in the Pipe Band scene. This has been the most successful season in the band’s short history with two 2 nd placings at the British and World Championships and the first ever major title with the United Kingdom Championship win in Belfast. The band continues to go from strength to strength and we would like to thank all the people of Lochmaben and surrounding areas for your continued support. The band will hold their Annual Scottish Night on Saturday, March 21, 2015. Please come along and listen to the band and enjoy a night of great family entertainment.

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JayBees Nursery

Jackie Bell writes……….. We have had a lovely summer in JayBees! The weather has had us outdoors most days with the children enjoying playing the garden. The highlight of our summer was Gala day, our aliens and astronauts topic within the nursery was thoroughly enjoyed by all the children and didn’t we do well? To win Best in Parade and People’s choice trophies was all thanks to the parents and the children, the effort put in by Mums and Dads helping on the Friday night and bringing the children in costume on the day was much appreciated-you are all on our ‘WOW’ board.

We also said goodbye to all our wee ones heading up to the ‘BIG’ school, we had a fun afternoon in the community centre and gave out our Bumble Books-not a dry eye in the house ! We have lots of P.1 children now attending after school and all the staff are fighting to get a turn to go over and see them. They have all settled in to the stingers group really well thank you to all the older children who have made them feel very welcome. On the 5th August we had a unannounced Care Inspection and I am delighted to tell you that we got grade 5s on every quality indicator, thank you to all the parents who filled in questionnaires for the inspectors, it was lovely for the staff to hear all your very kind comments. The final inspection report is now available on line. Our annual staff team building event (a game of rounders in the field) was held shortly after the inspection and staff had a few light refreshments to celebrate our very good grades. Celebrations continued when we won 2nd prize in the Lochmaben Garden Competition, the children have done a fantastic job of watering all the flowers they planted with Fiona during the dry weather. I am sure we will put our Hetland Garden Voucher to very good use. Our vegetable garden has been very successful this year with lots of fruits and vegetables harvested for Bev to use in the kitchen. Our excess vegetables were put out at the front door for parents to enjoy. Jackie and Jordyn have lots of ideas for the veg boxes next year and ask you if you have any Morrisons Garden Vouchers or know of anyone else who has any we could add them into the wheelbarrow on the desk. 2,000 vouchers would buy us a raised corner planter with 3 growing compartments. If anyone has spare Morrison Garden Vouchers please hand them into the nursery or ring us on 01387 810303 and when we are out and about with the bumble bus we could collect them from you. We now feel we have enough fizzypop bottles for our eco greenhouse –thank you everyone who has contributed to the hundreds of plastic bottles we now have. We have had lots of fund raising events this year and are pleased to tell you that Sarah safely completed her sky dive and raised a fabulous sum for the children’s cancer charity, Click Sergeant. Alexa, Jackie, Georgia, Sharon, Bev, Jordyn, Rachel and Stacy all completed the Race for Life in Carlisle and raised £520.20 for this very good cause. On Saturday, August 23, Georgia and Alexa held a coffee morning in JayBees to raise money for Brain Research Trust and they were overwhelmed by the generosity of everyone who came to enjoy coffee and hot pancakes. They raised the staggering amount of £800 and later ran a half marathon in Edinburgh on September 6. Well done to them! We took part in the Day of the Region which was held on Saturday, September 13. JayBees worked in partnership with the forest ranger and Mums, Dads and Grandparents all enjoyed an adventure in the forest. Things are moving forward with our planned extension. We are busy applying for a building warrant which may take several weeks. Plans for the extension are displayed in the entrance of JayBees.

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Castle Loch Lochmaben Community Trust Darren Flint, Castle Loch Project Officer, writes……………. Part of the splendid new path Volunteers on a tea-break

The spring and summer of 2014 have been blessed with some fine spells of dry, sunny weather, which has certainly helped Castle Loch Lochmaben Community Trust in its busy first year. All the tasks undertaken so far are too numerous to cover in full but here are a few of the highlights… Volunteering activities: A big thank you goes out from all the Trustees and myself to the many people who have regularly turned out to lend a hand over the last few months. The end of July, while being particularly hot, was also a very busy time for us, with us having only a limited window to clear the thick undergrowth and tree roots along the new footpath route. After much sweating and many aching muscles, we completed this massive undertaking in good time for the path layers and fencers to get on site. Along with the regular volunteers, we were also supported by Dumfries & Galloway Rangers, Lockerbie & District Rotary, and the Annandale Young Farmers, to name but a few. We have now found our pattern with the volunteering sessions at Castle Loch and, as a rule of thumb, meet on the 1st Saturday and 3rd Thursday at Lochfield Cottage, by the car park on the A709. These sessions run between 10am – 1pm. See www.castleloch.org.uk/getting-involved for more details. Presently, the sessions are mainly outdoors based, helping maintain the surrounding, woodlands, grass land and public areas. However, I am also keen to set up a group that remains in the dry and can keep their hands clean. I really need a hand helping plan next year’s activities, events and fundraising - let me know if you are interested in being part of this. Take a walk on the loch side: During August, we had numerous contractors on site to put in new fencing along the main road and lay sections of new footpath from Lochmaben around the north-east and south-eastern sides of the loch. This passes Lochfield cottage, continues through the wet woodlands, over a new bridge and across the grassland, connecting to the boardwalk near the castle. It is now possible to walk a complete circuit of Castle Loch, a distance of about 3 miles, which takes in the best of the views, a variety of habitats and much of the history of the site. We still have one or two finishing- off tasks in order to tidy up the route, plus we have to put out the brand new information boards. A revised Castle Loch leaflet is now available showing the route. Community Groups: The Lochmaben 1st Girl Guides were one of the first community groups we had the pleasure of welcoming to Castle Loch. As part of their Community Badge activity we created a Scottish wildflower garden in the shape of the Guides’ logo, ran a summer trees identification course, painted a forest mural as part of Day of the Region, and helped to clear part of the new footpath route. By late summer, the flower garden was abuzz with insects and butterflies, as well as becoming a favoured spot for a resident rabbit. Events: Whilst we have been really focusing this year on the path works, we have still managed to run a few events. The Trust were proud to be part of Lochmaben’s Day of the Region, and with the help of JayBees nursery, Girl Guides and volunteers, we ran a number of woodland children’s activities and our first Cont. /

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Guided walk on the new footpath. An enjoyable afternoon was spent at Elshieshields (www.elshieshields.co.uk) for a Russian tea party in aid of Castle Loch. I’m starting to turn my mind to activities for the coming seasons and into next year. Some of the ideas include running bat walks at the castle and winter and summer trees identification courses. We also want to create a network of people who regularly visit Castle Loch and would like to help monitor the plant and animal species – watch this space for training courses. On a less positive note… We have sadly had one or two troubles, which does go hand-in-hand with our more remote location. Lochfield Cottage and the outbuildings were broken into, not that we keep anything there worth stealing, and also the bird hide, which had stood for at least 20-years, was left as a pile of ash following one thoughtless fire. We have ramped up the security and monitoring at the site, but could I ask you to also act as our extra eyes and ears? If you see anything untoward, please do phone the police on 999 (emergency) or 101, plus also let me know if you see any areas around the loch that are in need of repair. So what next for Castle Loch? The final sections of the footpath are to be completed and we are in the process of looking at a feasibility study for Lochfield Cottage, to see what our options are for its future use. The habitat management plan is to be updated and will help steer our future volunteering work and we are keen to play our part in the local red squirrel action group. All of which will certainly keep us busy. Keeping in Touch: Website: www.castleloch.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/castlelochlochmaben Twitter: @castle_loch Email: darrenflint@castleloch.org.uk Address: Lochfield Cottage, Priestdykes, Lochmaben, DG11 1LP We look forward to seeing you around Castle Loch sometime over the coming seasons.

***** LOCHMABEN GOLF CLUB Michael Dickie writes………………………

This has been a successful year at Lochmaben Golf Club. We have welcomed some new members as well as an increased number of visitors. The course has been in excellent condition thanks to our hard working green-keeping staff. Under the leadership of Ian Rankine, work has commenced on alterations to the 15th hole of the course. We are indebted to the members who have spent so many hours helping with the project. Thanks to them, the work will be completed ahead of time and under budget. It is envisaged that the new hole will be in play at the start of the 2016 season. In the Dumfriesshire golf league, the senior team were very worthy winners while our juniors also gave a good account of themselves, finishing third. The Lochmaben Ladies have also had a busy season with good performances both at home and away. The Pink Day was again a great success (see p.2) and the Mhari L Charity day this year in aid of Marie Curie Nurses raised £1500. Our younger members had a busy season not only playing but receiving instruction from Maitland Pollock and David Wright. During the school holidays, a summer camp was held. The youngsters also took part in the Day of The Region where they were shown how to escape from a bunker as well taking part in a putting competition.

The Club Champions this year are Stephen Hyslop (Gents), Margaret McGregor (Ladies) and Connor Harkness (Juniors.) Martin McNae won the South of Scotland Championship held recently at Stranraer.

For further information about membership please contact Michael Dickie on 01387 810713

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Lochmaben War Memorial A Vigil was held at 11 pm on August 4, 2014, at the War Memorial, to mark the start of World War 1. Isabelle Gow writes further………………. “We Will Remember Them" has now been printed. Orders for this book, which is not for profit, can be made at Lochmaben Post Office. The cost is £7.50. There are copies in the local libraries and museums and I donated one to the Military Museum at Edinburgh Castle and the Family History Centre in Dumfries. The book is the result of 6 months of research initially about the 65 men who died in WW1 whose names are on Lochmaben War Memorial. During my research, however, in the Ewart Library, I discovered from the back copies of the Annandale Herald and Dumfries and Galloway Standard several obituaries of men who were not mentioned on the memorial. Then I discovered more names from graves in Lochmaben Cemetery. In all I found 85

men, but I am sure there are still others. The majority of these men and boys were not soldiers. They were farm boys, grocers, bakers and students. Most would have known each other from school or socially in the town and the surrounding areas, but not all were natives. Some of the men were connected to the Royal Four Towns, Templand or Lochmaben because they had moved here for work or had married a local girl. I devoted at least a page to each man, giving as much information about where he is buried, links to his medal records, details of his family and work. Sadly I was unable to identify one or two of the men from the little information given on the memorial. Several of the men have descendants living locally and hopefully budding genealogists may discover further connections. I felt that these men deserved to be remembered in a more personal way, than just as a name on a monument, but we should not forget the others who survived the war. They served too and many returned physically and, I'm certain, mentally challenged. Furthermore, I have not heard of any local women who served and would love to learn whether there were any women who were in the forces, munitions or worked as nurses in the First World War. Thanks to D and G Council and the Lochmaben and District Initiative for their support.

*****

Lochmaben & District Community Council A great deal has been happening in the last few months and the Community Council has been very busy looking at issues such as:- Lochmaben Town Hall and Library Lochmaben Town Hall reopened recently after a major refurbishment of the interior and change of use. The upper hall now houses the Town library and an integrated customer service facility where various benefits and council tax enquiries can be dealt with as well as other council information and fault reporting. Free access to computers and the internet, information on genealogy and local history is also available. It was officially opened on August 22, 2014 by D&G Councillor, Tom McAughtrie, when a Town Hall shaped cake was cut by Les Brown who, at 101 years, is Lochmaben’s oldest resident. D&G Council have made an excellent job of re-locating the library and of the interior decoration of the Chamber room, plus providing splendid new toilets and a lift. The history of Lochmaben is also available on posters within the Town Hall, the information having been supplied by local historians Sue Knight and Isabelle Gow. The library is open for 12 hours per week. Cont./

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RBS Bank – Lochmaben High Street Despite local protests, the RBS branch in Lochmaben closed its doors recently after many decades’ service to the community. However, the ATM is still available meantime and cash can be withdrawn at the Post Office. A mobile RBS banking service (called Isla) will be available in the Burgh on a regular basis every Wednesday at 11.30am situated at the Community Centre car park. Lochmaben High Street Pedestrian crossing At a recent Community Council meeting attended by Alistair Speedie, D&G Council, the ongoing problem of traffic congestion in the High Street was widely discussed. The only positive outcome from Mr Speedie was the possibility of installing a crossing in the High Street. However, it was pointed out that this would lead to more parking restrictions. However, it has not been ruled out and will be the subject of another survey, details of which will be revealed at the Community Council meeting in November. Residents are invited to make suggestions on alleviating the traffic problems via the customer services desk in the Town Hall. Wind Farm Funding The Harestanes Wind Farm has now been commissioned and the Annandale and Nithsdale Community Benefit Company has been set up. As a result, participating Communities (including Lochmaben) will receive the first payment due to them before the end of 2014. Monies received from the Harestanes benefit fund will be spent on local Lochmaben projects. There is also a tentative proposal to erect a Solar Power ‘Farm’ in the Broomhill area on the outskirts of Lochmaben. This project is in the very early stages of planning, but, should it proceed, would result in further funding being made available for local projects. Lochmaben Garden in Bloom Garden Competition 2014 Presentations to the winners of the Lochmaben Garden in Bloom Garden competition took place at the Lochmaben Town Hall on the evening of August 27. This annual event, funded by the George Hunter Trust, was held in the newly decorated Chamber Room of the Town Hall, which managed to accommodate 30 local residents and took place in an atmosphere of friendly community spirit. The overall winners were Mr & Mrs R. Dickson with Mr & Mrs Ian Vidler as runners- up. There were group winning certificates for Mr & Mrs D. Charlsworth and Mr & Mrs E. Bell. The Hanging Baskets’ winners were Mr& Mrs T Alderson and the Commercial premises’ prize went to Lochmaben Post Office. The judges were Mr and Mrs Bill Thompson. Lochmaben Christmas Lights This year’s Christmas lights’ switch- on will be on Sunday November 30, at 6 pm at the Town Hall. Senior Citizens’ Christmas Party The Senior Citizens’ Christmas Party will take place on Wednesday December 3 this year. This is a free event paid for by the Lochmaben Community Council. Anyone who is 65+ is welcome to attend. As long as one person at the same address is 65+, then he/she can bring his/her partner. Please do not wait to be asked. You must register your name and address at the Town Hall to be included this year. There will be entertainment, crackers, sweeties, a free raffle, & a miniature whisky for everyone. Free transport is available for anyone who is disabled or needs help to get to and from the Community Centre.

***** Keep it Local You’ll find enclosed the updated Keep it Local leaflet, the directory of the Local Businesses and Trades Persons who support our Community Website www.lochmaben.org.uk. Hope you will support them and the local economy! If you want your name added, contact us.

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Lochmaben Community Centre Programme

Monday PRIME MOVERS CIRCUITS

9.30am-10.30am 6.15pm-7.30pm

Wednesday PRIME MOVERS METAFIT

9.30am-10.30am 5.30pm-6.00pm

Thursday DANCE YOURSELF FIT 7.30pm-8.30pm

Friday METAFIT 6.00pm-6.30pm

Tel 01387 810599 for further details.

September 30 saw the Centre celebrate reaching 20 years.

***** Royal Voluntary Service is a charity that aims to let older people stay active, independent and able to contribute to their local community. We offer the following services throughout Dumfries and Galloway

Frozen meals, nutritionally balanced and delivered to the door once a fortnight by our friendly

staff.

Assisted Transport at a cost of 60p per mile, available for GP/Hospital appointments, shopping,

hair appointments, if you have somewhere you need to go just ask!

Meals on wheels, a hot 2 course meal delivered 3 times a week (Accessed through a Social Work

referral). We are also looking for volunteers to help provide these services, do you have any

spare time and would like to help make a difference to the older generation in your community?

If you would like any more information on our services or if you would like to become a volunteer please call our local office on 01683 221026

***** The recent Day of the Region event was well supported with many local residents and visitors attending the various workshops and displays that were on offer. There were cupcake classes, bowling for beginners and tennis tryouts. A Slideshow of photographs of bygone Lochmaben scenes and people again proved very popular. Novice classes in archery and shooting, sailing, target golf and kickboxing and much more got many local enthusiasts trying their hand. Hopefully, they will be encouraged to join the clubs to further enjoy a new pastime. The organisers are to be congratulated for all their effort and hard work which ensured that the event happened and was very successful.

*****

Can You Help? Having done a great job for the last two years, Fern Graham and Georgia Bell are standing down from their roles on the Lochmaben Children’s Gala Committee. Replacements are needed.

***** The Initiative intends to publish another Community Newsletter in spring 2015. As you know, the Newsletter goes to all households in the Burgh so it is a good publicity and information opportunity. Please submit items you would like to be included from February 2015. • To the Website at www.lochmaben.org.uk • Online to indamair@gmail.com • To the Town Hall, clearly marked for the Initiative-fao D.Mair.

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LOCHMABEN PEOPLE

The 2014 Gala Queen with her retinue Opening Ceremony at the re-furbished Town Hall

Staff from JAYBEES line-up for the Race for Life A study in concentration with the Pipe Band at DOR

Junior Golfers enjoying the Clubgolf Camp

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Hal McGhie, OBE

Hal entered the world in January 1932 when he was born at 8 Princes Street, Lochmaben, the 4 th of 10 siblings, with three older sisters, three younger sisters and 3 younger brothers. From what he recollects, he had a happy childhood. He remembers 3 particular friends- Alec Dickson, Jimmy Ivison and Alec (Ecky) Maclean. They walked a lot and, when older, cycled around most of the local area. He has a recollection of building a raft and punting it on the now drained Halleaths Loch. His grandfather and his father were both blacksmiths and master farriers. His grandfather bred greyhounds and had great success selling dogs to tracks all over the UK. Hal remembers walking the young dogs

regularly on leads, 4 at a time. His father kept racehorses with which he competed at local gymkhanas and then later raced at various flapping tracks around the country, including Glasgow. His most famous flapping horse was called Annandale which won the top race at Hawick three years in succession. Hal’s jobs concerning horses were cleaning the boxes and grooming. Hal was a reasonable singer until his voice broke and he can remember singing in a choir and singing a solo in the Church Hall and once in the Church. He was a member of the Youth Club and can remember Tom Cockburn entertaining the club by playing the violin. He attended Lochmaben Primary where he sat the control exam and went from there to Dumfries Academy where he unfortunately contracted Diptheria with other members of his family. Sadly, his sister Addie died. In 1938, McGhie’s had started in the milk trade and Hal remembers in 1947 taking milk to Dumfries by train and delivering it there in a Hayton’s lorry. He left Dumfries Academy aged 16 to be a milk boy in the family business and work in the dairy which was in the outbuildings behind 10 Princes Street where the family now lived. Like many of his generation, Hal was conscripted into the army to do National Service. After his basic training, he was posted to Singapore and northern Malaya. His stay there was extended from 18 months to 2 years because of the Korean War. Hal says he benefitted from National Service and enjoyed his time in Malaya, going back years later to visit. It was during one of these visits that he met Amy, now his wife. Returning home in August 1952, he remembers getting off the bus at 7.15am in Lochmaben and delivering milk at 7.30am. Life then was pretty basic, working through the day and playing badminton most nights during the winter. Gradually, Hal expanded his business interests beyond the family firm and over the years has had great success with a portfolio which has included Border Travel, the Station Hotel, Dumfries, Border Construction, Crombie Construction, Southerness Holiday Village and other property in Dumfries. He has also had success as a racehorse owner. He was Dairy Trade Federation President 1980-82, served as Chairman of the Scottish Dairy Council, founded and chaired the Scottish Milk Distributors’ Quality Training Scheme, represented the milk Trade on the Boards of both Auchencruive College and the Hannah Food Research Institute, was Chair of the Dumfries & Galloway College, 1988-2000, and was a co-founder of the Dumfries & Galloway Chamber of Commerce, serving as its first Chairman. He was awarded the OBE in 1999 for services to Business and Education and he is proud to be President of Lochmaben Golf Club. Hal thoroughly enjoys his life in Lochmaben where he has many happy memories.

Spotlight

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