Thursday, 30 April 2009

Perth FM news - 30th April 09

Missing teenager could be in Perth
It's thought a missing Dundee teenager could be in Perth. Aaron Dunn disappeared from his Mossgiel crescent home on Wedneday at half past three in the afternoon. He has friends and family in Perth and it's thought he could have travelled here by bus or hitchhiking. He's around 4 foot eight, and is described as medium build with short brown hair, blue eyes and a fair complexion.



Woman to appear in court for attempted murder
A woman's expected to appear in Perth Sheriff court today on charge of attempted murder. She's been charged in connection with an incident that took place on Tuesday night. A 57-year-old man was taken to Ninewells hospital from a house in Stanley. He suffered a back injury but his conditions not thought to be life threatening. A 56-year-old woman will appear in connection with the incident today.

Scottish government to have dairy farmer summit
The Scottish government have responded to yesterdays protest outside Holyrood. Farmers were campaigning over the low price they're paid for milk. The National Farmers Union say producers get 20% less than they did a year ago. The government have planned a dairy summit on May the 27th. Local MSP Murdo Fraser says local farmers are suffering.

Wednesday, 29 April 2009

Perth FM news - 29th April 09

Tayside residents tested for swine flu
We're expecting to hear if two people in Tayside have tested positive for swine flu. Health minister Nicola Sturgeon's expected to announce the results of the 23 cases that're being tested in Scotland. All of those being tested have had travel links to the affected area.

University would be "boost to Perth"
The provost of Perth has spoken of the massive boost it would be to make Perth college a University. A campaign to get Perth college university status has gathered momentum recently. Provost John Hulbert spoke of the benefits it would give the Fair city at a conference of the Scottish economic society last night. He said he hoped the institution would be granted fully academic degree giving status next year.

Population increase in P&K down to migrants
The population increase in Perth and Kinross is largely due to migrants. That's according to Registrar genral for Scotland Duncan Macniven. Official statistics show that our council area has had the second largest population increase in Scotland last year.

Monday, 27 April 2009

Perth FM News - 27th April 09

20 extra spaces for Etape Caledonia
Another 20 spaces for Etape Caledonia have been released today. A record breaking three thousand five hundred cyclists have already signed up to the UK's only closed road cycle event. The 20 extra spaces will go to those who pledge to raise at least five hundred pounds for Macmillan cancer care. Organisers hope to raise around one hundred thousand pounds for the charity. The 81-mile bike ride runs through Highland Perthshire. It'll take place on May the 17th.

Highland Perthshire tourism industry praised
Highland Perthshire tourism industries have been praised for pulling together to beat the recession. Thirteen businesses have come together to release a card to give people discounts during the peak tourism season. The safari card gets the user money off a number of attractions, including activity centres, restaurants and hotels. Visit Scotland have praised the idea, saying it'll drive the industry forward.

Army Highland Games hailed a success
Perth's first army highland games event's been hailed as a huge success. The 7 Scots brought local battalions together to compete in the games on the North Inch last Saturday. Tug o' war, weight throwing and the caber toss were among some of the games the highland regiments took part in. A parachute jump by the display team and the bands of 7 scots beating retreat were major highlights.

Friday, 24 April 2009

Perth FM News - 24th April 09

Stolen funeral car crashes in Scone
Car thieves crashed a stolen funeral car into a telegraph pole in Scone this morning. Police were called out when the black Mercedes was taken from Carpenter Place in Perth at around 4 o'clock. It was later seen driving through Scone, where it left the road and caught on fire. The occupants of the car were taken to Ninewells hospital. The 17 year old and 23 year old men didn't have any serious injuries. The road was closed for several hours but has now re-opened.

Appeal for witnesses after fatal crash
Police are asking witnesses to last nights fatal Perthshire crash to get in touch. A man in his 20's died when his Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle crashed with a Land Rover. The incident happened at around ten o'clock on the A823 Glendevon to Gleneagles road. The deceased man’s identity will not be released until his next of kin have been informed. Anyone who saw either of the vehicles on the road last night or witnessed the crash are asked to contact the police.

Opposition to wind farm challenge
Two local councillors have spoken out over plans for a wind farm in the Logiealmond area of Perth. The company behind the plans held an open day yesterday to residents of Bankfoot and Dunkeld. Vattenfall applied for consent previously, but it was thrown out by the council. Councillors Alistair Wyllie and John Kellas say the wind farm is the wrong thing in the wrong place. A public enquiry will be held in August.

Thursday, 23 April 2009

Perth FM News - 23rd April 09

Body found in car identified
The man found dead in his car in Blairgowrie last night has been identified as Thomas Friedberg. The 59 year old lived on Emma Terrace, where his body was found in a car containing unidentified chemicals. The chemicals were also found at his home. The area has been cordoned off for public safety until the chemicals are identified. Emergency services are working with forensic experts and chemists to identify them. There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

Son of attacked Perth pensioner's plea
The son of the elderly lady attacked in Perth on Sunday night says the suspects are lucky they're not facing a murder charge. 81-year-old Winifred Pearson has undergone two operations and is still in intensive care after the attack. Two young men mugged her on Sunday afternoon on Primrose crescent. Bob Person's made an emotional appeal for someone to come forward.

Perth academic's future to be decided
The future of a Perth academic facing deportation could be decided today. Swarthick Salins is meeting with immigration officials in Glasgow. They've agreed to review his case after pressure from local MP Pete wishart and first minister Alex Salmond. The Father of three was refused an application to stay in the country because his bank balance fell 78 pounds below the required level.

Tuesday, 21 April 2009

PerthFM news - 21st April 09

Perth Academic may be allowed to stay in Britain
A Perth academic facing deportation over 78 pounds, may be able to stay in the country. Swarthick Salins was told he might have to leave Britain because his bank balance fell below the required level of 800 pounds. The home office say they will reconsider Dr Salins case, after pressure from local politicians and First minister Alex Salmond. Dr Salins has lived and studied in Scotland for nine years. He has three children and lives in Muirton.

Bogus callers rob from 81 year old Perth woman
Bogus callers made off with a three-figure sum from a Perth pensioners home yesterday. The 81-year-old woman was conned by two men who claimed to be checking her Strathtay home for work next door. Both men were in their 20's. One's described as around five foot four and medium build. He had bad skin and short dark brown hair. The other man was about five foot six and slim. He had short spiky fair and ginger hair. Police are looking for any information.

Best Bar None Awards launched
The launch of the Best Bar none awards took place in Perth today. They focus on public safety and customer care. The launch was held at the Capital Asset on Tay Street, which gained gold status at last year's award. 17 local premises won awards in last year competition. The awards are run nationally and the intention is to create a 'Safe Pub Award' for Scotland.

Monday, 20 April 2009

Perth FM news - 20th April 09

Body found in Tay identified
The body of a woman found in the river Tay on Saturday has been named as Lesley Owens. The 43 year old was a long-term patient at a hospital in Perth. It's believed she commit suicide by jumping from the Perth Bridge. Fire crews recovered the woman's body at around half past six. There are no suspicious circumstances.

Attacked pensioner undergoes surgery
A Perth pensioner who was attacked yesterday morning has undergone surgery at Perth Royal Infirmary. The 81 year old was assaulted and robbed outside her home in Primrose Crescent. She's been treated for a fractured hip and shoulder following the incident. Police are keen to trace the suspects. They're between 15 and 20 years old, wearing light coloured hooded tops and jeans. One fled on a skateboard.

Tragic Robbie's funeral
The funeral of tragic Robbie Thomson will take place in Perth this afternoon. He'll be laid to rest at Perth crematorium at three o'clock. The 17 year old's body was found in a Coupar Angus burn in March. A 23 year old has since been arrested and charged in connection with his death. He's been described as a dear son, much loved brother and dearest grandson and nephew.

Friday, 17 April 2009

17th April 09

Incinerator plant concerns grow
The incinerator plant is not wanted in Perth. That was the message to come out of last night's meeting between Grundon Waste Management and a local community council. The one hundred and twenty strong audience were left even angrier after Grundon put their case for an incinerator in the centre of Perth. The project includes a 262 foot chimney, which pumps plumes into the air. Grundon say SEPA will monitor the site for environmental concerns.

Black watch to receive luxury gifts from Perth
Black Watch troops in Afghanistan are to receive some luxuries from home. Boots the chemist on Perth's High Street are sending a shipment of luxury goods. They'll send packs with everything from baby wipes to sunblock as a treat for the soldiers. The became the regional battle group last Friday.

A Perth hotel reduces energy consumption by 25%
A Perth hotel's been doing its bit for the environment by reducing its carbon footprint. The Ramada Jarvis was set a target in March last year to reduce energy consumption by 20%. They've cut their bill by fifteen and a half thousand pounds, aalmost 25% less than last year. All the light bulbs were changed to low energy and timers were fit to all equipment.

Thursday, 16 April 2009

Perth FM News - 16th April 09

Perth man facing deportation meets local MPA Perth academic who faces deportation is in discussions with the local MP today. Swarthick Salins hopes that Pete Wishart will successfully appeal against a decision to reject his immigration. The father of three has had his application to stay in Perth rejected, because his bank balance fell 78 pounds short of the UK Border Agency’s required level.

Funeral of murder victim
The funeral of murdered Perthshire teenager Robbie Thomson is to take place next Monday. The seventeen year old went missing from his Coupar Angus home in March. His body was found in a burn a few days later. The service will take place at Perth crematorium at 3 o'clock on Monday. Mourners are asked to bring something green as it was his favourite colour.

Perthshire biomass heating system launched
Perthshire's first biomass heating system's been launched today. Pitlochry High school held celebrations this morning to launch the energy-efficient system. It burns woodchips to produce energy and hot water. Since being installed in 2008, it's saved over one hundred and thirty tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.

Wednesday, 15 April 2009

Perth FM News - 15th April 09

Perth Bus company speak out after licence is taken away
A Perth bus company have spoken against the decision to take away their license for over three years. Bankfoot buses Limited will loose their licence to operate from midnight tonight. The Traffic commissioner's decision was based around the small company's alleged interference with bus giant's Stagecoach. Bankfoot buses Managing director Stuart Newing Davis says they haven't had time to oppose the decision.

Stop the incinerator campaign grows
More councillors are joining the campaign to stop the incinerator. Councillor Heather Stewart has come forward and says she's opposed the plant since it was first discussed at a community council meeting last March. Grundon Waste Management has received outline-planning permission for the one hundred million pound project. Councillor Stewart told Perth FM one of the main problems is the traffic it'll produce.

Black Watch troops make their mark in Afghanistan
Black Watch Troops are already making their mark in Afghanistan, just weeks after deployment. They've already hit the Taliban in a 36-hour operation. Troops were dropped onto a supply route by a helicopter. They netted Taliban anti-personnel mines, mortar and rocket propelled grenades. The battalion, who have links with Perth, took over as the regional battle group last Friday.

Tuesday, 14 April 2009

Perth FM news - 14th April 09

MP joins incinerator plant row
Local MP Pete Wishart has spoken out over the controversial plans for a waste to energy plant on Perth's shore road. Mr Wishart visited the site where plans have been made to create a one hundred million pound incinerator. He wants to know why council officials have given the plans the green light, branding it preposterous. He's meeting with planning officials and attending the public meeting this Thursday. It'll take place at half past seven in Kinnoull community church.

Perth Bus company 'misled public'
A Perth bus company accused of misleading the public have been banned from operating for three-and-a-half years. Bankfoot buses were fined over one thousand six hundred and fifty thousand pounds for a number of dealings. It's alleged they attempted to operate on the same routes as Stagecoach buses, and used a similar livery and uniform to the giant bus firm. Bankfoot buses limited say on their website they'll be continuing with free bus services from Dunkeld to Perth.

Pensioner dies in cafe
A Perthshire pensioner died suddenly yesterday in a popular Aberfeldy cafe. The 67-year-old was taken ill at the Moon and Sixpence cafe at around 2 o' clock in the afternoon. When the ambulance arrived he was pronounced dead at the scene. Police are keen to speak to a member of the public who assisted the man but left without leaving details.

Thursday, 9 April 2009

Perth FM News - April 9th 09

Missing 14 year old Perth girl

A 14 year old from Perth has been reported as missing. Roxanne Alcorn's not been seen since at her home in Ritchie Place since last Tuesday. It's thought she may be in the Dundee area. She's described as 4 foot ten, slim with blue eyes, a pale complexion and short brown bobbed hair. She was last seen wearing blue denim jeans, a white T-shirt, a black cardigan, and black flat shoes. Police ask anyone who's seen her to get in touch.



Perth and Kinross council get funding for more houses

Perth and Kinross council have secured funding for more council houses in Perth for the first time in 20 years. They'll be receiving six hundred and fifty thousand pounds from the Scottish government, it was announced today. It'll go towards the 3 million pounds invested to provide homes for 26 families in Perth and Kinross. 20 will be built in Methven, and 6 in Letham. They're expected to be complete by 2011.

Man in court over Perthshire teenager's murder

A man's expected to appear in court later for a second time in connection with the murder of a Perthshire teenager. Robbie Thomson's body was found in a burn last month. The 17 year old went missing from his Coupar Angus home in the early hours on the 26th March. A 23 year old was arrested in connection with his death on the 1st of April. It's alleged he stabbed Robbie with a knife.

Wednesday, 8 April 2009

Perth FM News - 8th April 09

Perth people must know more about waste plant proposal

The people of Perth need to know more about the proposals for a waste plant near the centre of Perth. That's according to the Bridgend, Gannochy and Kinnoull community council. They've arranged a meeting for members of the public to hear more about the proposals by Grundon Waste Management. Community council vice chairman Richard Salvin says the plans have spiralled since they were originally proposed in 2006. The meeting will be held in Kinnoull Church on Thursday the 16th of April.

Police release CCTV images of armed robbers

Police investigating an armed robbery in Perth have released CCTV footage of the incident. It took place at the Isle of Skye hotel on the 3rd of November last year. The two suspects entered the hotel and threatened a night porter with a knife before taking a quantity of cash. They're shown wearing hooded tops worn back to front and zipped up with eye holes cut in to obscure their faces.




Unemployed youngsters set up for full time work growing veg

Youngsters in Perth are getting the chance to gain full time employment growing vegetables from a scheme set up by the YMCA. The three C's programme has received funding from a government package aimed to encourage communities to reduce carbon emissions. The Perth and District YMCA will employ youngsters to help households create vegetable patches in Oakbank and Craigie. They received over one hundred and twenty thousand pounds from the climate challenge fund.

Monday, 6 April 2009

Perth FM News - 6th April 09

Man killed in Perthshire car crash

The man killed after being hit by a car in Perthshire over the weekend has been named. Richard Scott McCreadie died at around 25 past midnight on Sunday. The 28 year old from Dundee was struck by a dark coloured BMW after getting off a bus at Longforgan. The 51-year-old female driver and her passenger in the car were uninjured. Police want to speak to anyone who was on the number 16 Strathtay bus at around midnight, or if they saw a male pedestrian in Longforgan.

Community Council slam planning authority over waste plant proposals

A Perth community council has accused the local planning authority of failing to properly inform the public over a planned energy plant for Perth. They fear the one hundred million pound plant for Perth's Shore road could be damaging to rivers and would be a major polluter. Bridgend, Gannochy and Kinnoull community council say there's been no consultation with the public, and no public meeting. Grundon waste management, who're behind the development, will meet with the community council this month.

New energy centre for Blairgowrie

A new energy centre is to open in Blairgowrie this afternoon. The venue will showcase the latest solutions for energy efficiency in homes. MSP for North Tayside John Swinney will officially open the centre. It aims to give advice and provide solutions for energy saving through demonstrations and one on one consultations.

Friday, 3 April 2009

Perth Fm News - 3rd April 09

Man arrested in connection with local murder in court today

A 24 year old man, arrested in connection with the murder of teenager Robbie Thomson appeared in Perth Sheriff Court today. Robbie's body was found near his home in Coupar Angus last week after he was reported missing. Two condolence books are available to the public in Alyth Post Office and the Strathmore Centre for Youth Development. Social networking sites have also been used by friends and family to leave messages of sympathy.

ATM hit by illegal card reading device

Detectives are appealing for information after a card reading device was found on a local ATM. It was discovered on a Royal Bank of Scotland machine at the ASDA store on the Dunkeld Road. CCTV footage showed three men acting suspiciously. Those who used the ATM are being encouraged to check their accounts and contact banks if there are any unexplained transactions.

Aviva job losses raise concerns locally

Concerns have been raised as insurance firm Aviva announced job losses. The company have said they will be axing over 1000 jobs in 2009. The losses are expected to centre in England and only minimally impact the headquarters in Perth. MP for Perth and North Perthshire, Pete Wishart has said he will continue to discuss the situation in Perth with the firm throughout these harsh times.

Thursday, 2 April 2009

Perth FM News - 2nd April 09

Arrest made in local murder investigation

An arrest has been made in connection with the murder of teenager Robbie Thomson. Police have confirmed that a 24 year old man is in custody. He is expected to appear at Perth Sheriff Court tomorrow. Robbie's body was found near his home in Coupar Angus last week. Condolence books have been left in Alyth post office and the Strathmore centre for youth development.

Tayside rural projects receive national investments

Over Four and a half million pounds will be invested rurally in Tayside. The money is part of this year's 67 million pound national investment from the Scotland rural development programme. Included are a developing farm business in Lochtay and an aberfeldy forrester. Also, Tourism in Glenalmond will get a boost with the construction of two on-farm chalets aimed at providing respite care for people with special needs and their carers.

Aytoun Hall refurbishment funding confirmed

Councillors agreed yesterday to advance with planned upgrades to the Aytoun Hall in Auchterarder. A rise in costs created a shortfall of over 400 thousand pounds. The council has said they are determined that there will be no more delays to the project. The extra money will be sought by careful borrowing and reclaimed through developer contributions once the building industry is healthier.

Wednesday, 1 April 2009

Perth FM news - 1st April 09

Tax cuts for small local businesses in effect today

Small business around Perthshire will benefit from tax cuts that go into effect today. The scheme was initially due to take effect in 2010 but have been brought forward a year. Local taxes will be abolished for 125 thousand smaller businesses across the country. Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, Elizabeth Smith told Perth FM the cuts are important to preserve local businesses.


Condolence books set up for murdered teenager

Condolence books have been set up for murdered teenager Robbie Thomson. His body was found last week in a burn near his home in Coupar Angus. Police divers have concluded their search, and detectives have also finished door-to-door inquiries. The investigation is still ongoing. The condolence books have been left in Alyth post office and the Strathmore centre for youth development.


Council launch litter clearing activities

Perth and Kinross council is launching its month of litter clearing activities today. Volunteers and schools throughout Perthshire have already signed up to join in the events. The opportunity is also being taken to highlight the importance of cleaning up after your dog. Three fast food characters will be in the High Street on Saturday to promote National Spring Cleaning month.