Friday, 31 July 2009

Perth FM News - 31st July 09

Economy under scrutiny with minister

The economy of Perth and Kinross is under scrutiny today, in a meeting with the minister for enterprise, Energy and Tourism, MSP Jim Mather. Top council leaders met with the minister before his workshop on the economic recovery. 90 representatives from the local are were also there for the discussion.

Litter louts ruining countryside because of rules

A Perthshire landowner says rules by the Scottish government over land roaming are ruining the countryside. The local fisherman owns a stretch of the river Tay in Burnmouth near Stanley. Mike Smith says the Land Reform Act in Scotland means people are free to roam on his land as they wish, and he can't stop them. The land's often left littered with beer bottles and tents. Perth and Kinross council say he should provide a bin.

Campaigners at Perth Show

A group of campaigners are looking for support at the South Inch today, in a movement against an incinerator planned for Perth. Highly controversial plans for an energy burning plant near the city centre are being blasted by local residents. The campaign, led by Councillor Peter Barrat, has been taken to the Perth Show, where signatures will be sought. Protestors say the show would be ruined by thick smog in the future if the plant is built.

Thursday, 30 July 2009

Perth FM News - 30th July 09

Message to check smoke alarms after fatal fire

The death of a Perthshire couple earlier this week serves as a reminder to have smoke alarms checked. That's the message from Tayside fire and rescue. They were called out to a fire just before 5 o’clock to a flat in Crieff on Monday afternoon. 45-year-old John Johnstone and his partner, believed to be 42-year-old Bridgette Townsley, were found dead in the Alma Place property. Fire fighters say there was no smoke alarm fitted at the house

Local MP reminds locals to apply for tax credits

A local MP asks his constituents to ensure their tax credit renewals are in order. Pete Wishart is issuing a last-minute reminder to renew credits no later than tomorrow, otherwise payments could stop. He says it's vital for people to deal with it before its too late. Tax credits are available if you are a low earner, are disabled or have children and currently benefit around 6 million families in the UK

Rock band frontman sentenced after pensioner attack

The former front man of a popular Perthshire country rock band has escaped a jail sentence after an attack on a pensioner. Gavin Munro, who used to be a member of Southpaw, was ordered to carry out 300 hours of community service and pay his victim 12 thousand pounds, after an attack left 73-year-old Kevin Murphy partially blind. The singer was performing on stage at the Pitcairngreen gig on the green festival shortly before the incident, and had been drinking for several hours.

Wednesday, 29 July 2009

Perth FM News - 29th July 09

Perth man banned from driving after causing sons death

A man whose careless driving led to the death of his son says he can't remember any of the smash. Allan Paton was fined one thousand pounds and banned from driving for 15 months at Perth sheriff court yesterday. He pled guilty to causing the death of his 8-year-old son Benjamin Mathew Paton by driving carelessly on the A9 Perth to Dunblane road last November. Paton performed a U-turn across the opposing carriageway when he collided with another car.

Perth shop owner's campaign to stay in the pink

A Perth shop owner's campaigning after the council refused her permission to keep her shop front pink. Jane Atkinson's gift shop Bertie Browns recently moved from Scott Street to larger premises on South Street. But the council have refused retrospective planning consent to keep the façade pink, because they say it detracts from the architecture of the listed building. Jane's now asking customers to sign a petition. She says the ruling is totally unfair.

Perth man's Atlantic row bid abandoned

A Perth man attempting to become the first disabled man to row across the Atlantic for charity has had to abandon his record bid. John Mollison had to give up yesterday after being rescued by coastguards 23 days into his adventure. The former commando, who lost a leg in the Falklands war, set off from New York on July the 5th. Fog, rough seas and lack of communication forced the journey to end.

Tuesday, 28 July 2009

Perth FM News - 28th July 09

Shock after two killed in fire

A Perthshire town are in shock after a man and woman died in a house fire last night. Fire fighters were called to a fire in a third story flat in Alma Place in Crieff shortly before 5 o'clock. They discovered two bodies when entering the building. The identity of the victims will not be released until next of kin have been informed.

T in the Park clean up to finish this week

Residents of Kinross are being assured that the T in the Park clean up will be completed this week. It's after locals expressed their concern that rubbish was still strewn over the site in Balado. 85 thousand music fans left debris around the site over two weeks ago. Organisers say the clean up is on course and will be finished soon.

Council deny bin snooping

Perth and Kinross council have denied snooping round people's bins. The local authority was rated in a survey, among those who keep an eye on people's rubbish. They say they carry out random sampling on rubbish at the main dump – in a bid to improve collection services. They use the results to provide an up-to-date composition on household waste.

Monday, 27 July 2009

Perth FM news - 27th July 09

Local Doctor unsure about swine flu vaccine

A Perthshire doctor has yet to decide if he'll be vaccinated against swine flu and let his child have the jab. Dr Andrew Buist says he'll probably be immunised, but wont make a decision until the vaccine is licensed and he's reassured of its safety. As a family doctor at Ardblair in Blairgowrie, Dr Buist is a frontline healthcare worker and could be exposed to the virus. He says he'll make the decision closer to the time its available for the public, which will be around mid-September.

Reduced sentence for Dolina killer

A reduced sentence for a man who killed a Perthshire pensioner has sparked outrage in the area. John Lawson was convicted of culpable homicide after abducting Dolina Maclean from a Perth Tesco and leaving her to die last year. The Former Foreign French legionnaire was jailed for 15 years for the incident. But on Friday the sentence was reduced to 13 years. A local MSP's hit out at the decision, calling it shocking.

Suspected drug dealers expected in court

A number of suspected drug dealers are expected to appear in court today over the supply of a class A drug. Four men were arrested last Friday after police raided homes in Perth City Centre, Tulloch, Letham and North Muirton. Quantities of drugs, thought to be heroin, were recovered in the searches. A further six people have been detained and are assisting with enquiries.

Friday, 24 July 2009

Perth FM News - 24th July 09

Massive drug operation in Perth

Three men have been arrested in Perth this morning after quantities of drugs were discovered at several addresses. It's understood the drug is heroin. It was found at several addresses in Perth City Centre, Letham and Tulloch at around 6 o'clock this morning by police officers and the forces drug branch. Two of the men arrested are in their 20s and the third in his late 50's. At least 2 others have been detained and are assiisting with the investigation.

Perth prison Governor slams incinerator plans

The Governor of Perth Prison has joined in with the campaign against an incinerator planned for Shore Road. Kate Donegan says the proposed plant could cause a security risk and may disrupt prisoners. Local MP Pete Wishart says her concerns should put an end to the plans.

Perth's first club boutique on the cards

A Perth pub is hoping to build Perth's first boutique nightclub above the main bar. Brennans on St John's Street is hoping to gain permission from the local authority to have the function room turned into a club venue. The club will have space for almost 240 patrons, and will create 10 jobs. The premises have been fitted with acoustic screening. The pub was granted permission for a bigger club in 1993, but the club later stopped.

Thursday, 23 July 2009

Perth FM News -23rd July 09

Drug misuse warning

Police in Perth are warning that there's an increase in the misuse of the drug mephedrone throughout Tayside. Whilst it's not a controlled drug, it's still dangerous to take and has mind-altering properties. If the drug's mixed with other substances it can increase the likelihood of an overdose. Police are working hard to remove dealers from the street, but ask the public to inform them if they know about anyone supplying the drug.

Attempted murder case verdict due

A verdict's expected later into an attempted murder case at the High Court of Perth. Anthony Trzeciak denies assaulting and attempting to murder his brother Francis Mayne in Dundee last year. He's accused of attempting to cut off his ear, threaten him with violence and strike him with a knife. The 42 year old has lodged a special defence of self defence. His fate will be decided by a jury later.

Perthshire parks awarded green flag status

Two Perthshire parks have won national awards in the Green Flag scheme. Kinoull Hill Woodland Park and Larghan Park in Coupar Angus have both been awarded the green flag status. It's similar to the blue flag scheme on British beaches, and recognises a high level of community involvement in their management. Significant work’s been undertaken on both parks in recent years.

Wednesday, 22 July 2009

Perth FM News - 22nd July 09

Training for swine flu vaccinations in Perth

Training to proceed with mass inoculation for swine flu will begin in Perth next week. Nurses at NHS Tayside received an e-mail yesterday, saying they'll be the first to receive training for the vaccination programme. Every person in the country is to be immunised against the H1N1 virus, with half the population being treated by the end of this year. That means 400,000 people will receive the jab in Tayside by January.

Pub closures not affecting Perth

Local pub owners remain defiant despite closures during the recession. UK pubs closed at a rate of 52 per week in the first half of the year according to the British Beer & Pub Association. Local pubs are most vulnerable to failing during the recession, whilst pub chains selling food are stronger. Brennans owner John Buchan says smaller pubs have benefits.

Elderly man found safe and well

An 88 year old man who went missing in Perthshire has been found safe and well. John Duguid from Kirrimuir was reported missing on Sunday. He was last seen at a hotel in Lochernhead in Perthshire on the 14th July. Police have confirmed that the elderly man, who’s recently widowed, was found in the Tayside area.

Tuesday, 21 July 2009

Perth FM News - 21st July 09

Pensioner missing for a week

A pensioner who disappeared from Perthshire has now been missing for a week. Angus man John Duguid was last seen at a hotel in Lochearnhead. The recently widowed 88-year-old was reported missing last Tuesday by concerned family members. He seems to have left in his car, which is a grey Mercedez Benz.

Look to Big Wheel for incinerator size

A local councillor is stepping up his campaign against an incinerator planned for Shore Road. Peter Barratt says the Big Wheel on Perth's South Inch last weekend shows how huge the plant would be. The wheel is less than half the height of the 260-foot chimney, which will be part of the 100 million pound plant if proposals are approved. The wheel was part of a funfair. Councillor Barratt says it shows what a blight the plant would be.

Swine Flu hits major firm

Staff at one of Perth's major employers are being advised on stopping the spread of swine flu. A small number of employees have gone off sick with the H1N1 virus at the Insurance firm Aviva. They say the situation is under control and infected employees are recovering at home. The firm employ over 1,000 staff in the local area.

Monday, 20 July 2009

Perth FM News - 20th July 09

Missing mental health patient

Police are still looking for a Dundee man who has been missing from a Perth hospital since last Friday. Bruce Harper is a compulsory patient at the Murray Royal Hospital. The 21 year old from the Hilltown area of Dundee fled without medication, which could leave him unstable. Meanwhile, a fellow absconder from the hospital has returned safe and well. Thomas Walker took off from Perth's South Street on Friday whilst on a supervised visit with Murray Royal staff, but was traced in Dundee yesterday.

St John's Shopping Centre bucks national trend

St John's shopping Centre in Perth City Centre is fighting off the recession.The number of visitors has increased over the last 6 months, proving the centre of Perth is still popular. On average there has been an increase of 2.8%. Perth and Kinross Council have welcomed the news, saying we've survived better than many other cities.

Elderly man missing in Perthshire

A family are searching for a missing pensioner who was last seen in Perthshire. John Duguid from Kirriemuir was last seen in Lochearnhead last Tuesday. The 88 year old appears to have left in his car. It's a grey Mrcedez Benz with the registration SP09 RJZ.

Friday, 17 July 2009

Perth FM News - 18th July 2009

Perthshire hotel expansion could see £14million for local economy

A Perthshire hotel expansion could see an investment of over 14 million pounds come to the local economy. Newhaven Company, the owner of the Kenmore Hotel also claims an indirect impact of over 2 million pounds a year to the Kenmore community. They hope to build 30 apartments and 24 hotel suites along with new facilities including a spa and gymnasium. The hotel is currently in need of an upgrade and hope these plans will fulfil the criteria for the Destination Perthshire initiative.


Summer taxi rank Marshall scheme kicks off tonight

A taxi rank Marshall scheme for the summer kicks off in Perth tonight.
It'll see marshalls at the taxi rank on Murray Street during busy periods.
They’ll be on hand on Friday and Saturday nights to assist customers and make sure the taxi runs go smoothly.


Dundee fans fined for challenging Saints supporters at McDiarmid Park

Three Dundee fans who challenged St Johnstone supporters during a match last season were fined yesterday at Perth Sheriff court. All three admitted that they conducted themselves in a disorderly manner at McDiarmid Park in February by refusing to sit down and gesticulating at the home support. St Johnstone applies rules that state supporters must remain seated during matches.

Thursday, 16 July 2009

Perth FM News - 17th July 09

Funeral for tragic Perthshire teenager

The funeral of a Perthshire teenager killed on his way to T in the Park will take place today. 17-year-old Lachlan Gillies died from serious head injuries when a lorry hit him last Friday. It's thought the former Perth High School pupil was looking for a replacement ticket when the accident happened at the Moto service in Kinross. Friends and family will gather at Errol Parish Church this lunchtime.

Call for more housing in Perthshire

A charity's calling for more money to be invested in affordable housing in Perth and Kinross. Shelter Scotland say there's a chasm between supply and need in the Fair City. Figures show it'll take 11 years to clear the waiting list for council houses even if the list doesn’t grow. The director of Shelter Scotland Graeme Brown says more money must be spent.

Postie sentenced after binning mail

A Perth postman's escaped jail despite binning 200 items of mail. 27-year-old Garry Hutton stashed letters and parcels in wheelie bins along his route. A further 325 items were found in his car. He was sentenced to 120 hours of community service at Perth sheriff court, because he pled guilty at an early stage. The sheriff said he hadn’t committed a dishonest crime as the mail remained unopened.

Wednesday, 15 July 2009

Perth FM News - 15th July 09

Scotland could be 100% renewable in 20 years

A new report shows Scotland could be 100 percent renewable in 20 years. It could generate all the electricity the country needs within two decades. Perthshire leads the way for renewable energy with hydro power and windfarms across Highland Perthshire. Though residents have complained about the increase of windfarms spoiling the countryside recently. The report shows Scotland will no longer need to burn fossil fuels if the country can fulfill its potential by using wind and waves.

Car seats in Perth incorrectly fitted

A large number of Perth parents are fitting child car seats incorrectly. That's according to a recent survey by Tayside police. They hold a car seat clinic every month to check children's seats are fitted and adjusted correctly. They found only 31 percent were satisfactory. 18 percent were completely incompatible with car or damaged beyond use.

Perth pets overweight

Scottish Pets are the fattest in Britain. That's according to a survey by a top pet charity. The PDSA say people across Scotland, including Perthshire, don't realise they're overfeeding their dogs.

Tuesday, 14 July 2009

Perth FM News - 14th July 09

Charity asks Perth people to look for cruel dog owner

The owner of a dog with a large tumour left on Perth's South Inch is being sought. Animal charity Scottish SPCA is appealing for the public's help after the jack Russell was brought in to one of its vet practices. The elderly dog had a broken jaw because the tumour on its cheek was left to grow. The dog had to be put down. Darren Cowing, the SSPCA chief inspector, says they need any information to trace the owner.

Tributes to tragic Perthshire teenager

Tributes have been paid to a popular Perthshire teenager who died near T in the Park. 17-year-old Lachlan Gillies died last Friday when he was hit by a lorry near a service station in Kinross. His parents, who own the Cairn o'Mohr winery in Errol, say they're devastated. Friends have left tributes to the former Perth High School pupil on his Bebo page. And staff at the school have also paid tribute to the former head boy.

Bankfoot junction works almost complete

An agency's assured motorists that work to improve the Bankfoot juntion on the A9 is close to an end. Scotland Transerv spokesman said they hoper to have the disruptive worik completed by August the 9th. Work began on the 2.7 million pound scheme in March. Delays in the area have been up to 45 minutes during busy periods.
Improvements will have a positive impact on congestion and improve road safety.

Perth FM News - 13th July 09

Clean up at T in the Park

The clean up operation is underway after T in The Park. Over 85 thousand visitors travelled each day to the Balado site. Police have praised the low crime rates once again at the festival, after only 58 arrests. Organiser Geoff Ellis says they plan to stay in Kinross for as long as possible.


Perth family mourn son after tragic T in the Park death


Meanwhile, a Perthshire family are grieving following the death of their son as he travelled to T in the Park. 17-year-old Lachlan Gillis died after being hit by a lorry near the festival site. His family own the Cairn 'o Mohr fruit winery at East Inchmichael in Errol. He's been described as popular and sensible.

Community Campus complete

The first of six new Community campuses in Perth and Kinross has been completed. The Blairgowrie Community Campus is part of a 136 million pound investment by the local authority. It's to be shared by Newhill Primary and Nursery School and St Stephen's RC Primary School. The building has state of the art facilities. It'll be used out of school hours by the local community.

Friday, 10 July 2009

Perth FM News - 10th July 09

Campaign for more homes launched in Perthshire

There are fewer affordable homes in Scotland now than there were 50 years ago. That's according to a new report by charity Shelter Scotland. They're launching a new campaign in Blairgowrie this morning. The leading homelessness charity is taking drawings of all the 30,000 houses needed to the Scottish Government. Head of campaigns Gordon Macrae says they want everyone to get involved. You can log on to their website at Scotland.shelter.org.uk

Business to be re-built after fire

An Errol Caravan company gutted by a blaze earlier this year are re-building their showroom. Owners of The Perthshire Caravan company hope to re-built their business and make it 50 percent bigger than before. They've lodged the proposals with the council. The former showroom was burnt down by a fire last May.

Gates to open at T in the Park

More than 120 bands and singers are set to entertain crowds at Scotlands biggest music festival this weekend. The gates to T in the park open later today to around 85 thousand revellers. Kings of Leon, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds and The View are tonight's headline acts. Police have urged festival-goers to stick with their friends, be aware of pickpockets and to look after their mobile phones.

Perth FM News - 9th July 09

Early birds head to T

20 thousand music fans are heading to Balado today to bag the first camping spots for this weekend's T in the Park. The festival, which kicks off tomorrow, will see over 85 thousand revellers attending each day. Last minute day tickets have been released on the ticketmaster website. Meanwhile taxi services in Perth ask weekend taxi users to pre-book, as they'll be in high demand over the weekend. John Dare from Taylors taxi's says pre-booking is essential.

Woolies showcases pictures of Perth

The former Woolworth's store in Perth is the first vacant shop to be turned into a gallery. Following from the lead of other cities, the local authority has decorated the High Street shop's windows with pictures of the City. It's been standing empty since the store went into administration last year. It's hoped other vacant premises will showcase the work of the community in the future.

Singers wanted to perform with stars

Perthshire singing groups are being given the opportunity to perform with top international singing stars. The Big Sing 2010 will take place at Perth Concert Hall next November. Horsecross are looking for singers of all ages, abilities and styles to apply for the chance to take part. The Big Sing is one of many events taking place next year to celebrate Perth's 800th birthday.

Wednesday, 8 July 2009

Perth FM News - 8th July 09

Elderly man dies in Perthshire car crash

An elderly man's died after a crash on a Perthshire road. He was travelkling towards Aberfeldy on Monday when his red Renault Clio overturned near the A826. The 86 year old was taken to Ninewells hospital but died as a result of his injuries yesterday. Police want to speak to the occupants of a gold coloured Renault type van, who stopped to offer assistance.

Not enough jobs for primary school teachers

More than 200 trained primary school teachers are looking for a place in Perth and Kinross schools. A concerned parent claims her daughter heard the figure at a recent even for graduates at the Dewars centre in Perth. Many of the newly qualified teachers are waiting to hear if they'll be given supply jobs. The Education Institute of Scotland confirmed there are many newly qualified teachers struggling to get jobs across the country.

Festival revellers warned to prepare

T in the park revellers have been warned to prepare for all weathers for this weekend's festival. Tayside police have also advised people to sleep with their tickets in their sleeping bags, and asked them not to take drugs. More than 85 thousand people are expected to attend the festival in Balado. Police ask friends to stick together and not to go off on their own.

Tuesday, 7 July 2009

Perth FM News - 7th July 09

Calls for flooding prevention

A Perthshire businesswoman has called on the local authority to review Perthshire's drainage system. Anne Rowse, who owns the Jolly Beggars hotel in Milnathort, was affected by yesterday's heavy rain. She had ruined stock and will have to replace carpets after the nearby burn flooded. She told Perth FM the local authority don't do enough.

Armed Forces day celebrations in Perth

An Armed Forces Day parade in Perth this morning saw hundred of people on the streets to applaud the armed services. The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards marched with the pipe and drums band and Armed force veterans. The event was held for the public to get closer to the services and show their appreciation. A beating of the retreat event will take place later.

Perthshire man campaigns after pet dies in trap

A man from Crieff's calling for a ban on animal snare’s after his dog was killed. John Buchan's cocker Spaniel was caught in a trap when he was out walking near his Gask home. The retired solicitor says the 6-year-old dog died a slow and painful death, and wants to see the snares banned.

Monday, 6 July 2009

Perth FM news - 6th July 09

Ice Factory closes after 15 years

An iconic Perth Nightclub has become the latest victim of the recession. The Ice Factory on Shore road has closed its doors after fifteen years. Club owners CentreGlobal Management limited say dwindling numbers have prompted the closure. The company also run several clubs and bars in Perth including The Loft and Roca Blue, which they say are all thriving. The club will still be available for private functions.

Teenager in court over Perthshire cannabis factory

An 18 year old man's expected to appear in court later after being found with 95 thousand pounds worth of cannabis plants in his Blairgowrie house. Detectives made the discovery of 380 plants last Friday. The teenager from Jessie Street was arrested and is expected at Perth Sheriff court today.

Scottish Game Fair busier than ever

The Scottish Game Fair saw 3000 visitors more than ever before over the weekend. The record numbers of visitors were treated to plenty of events, from competitions, to shopping stalls and food halls. The annual Fair aims to educate the public about the Scottish countryside. Hugo Straker from the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust says the Fair allows people to learn more.

Thursday, 2 July 2009

Perth FM News - 2nd July 09

Perth woman blamed heroin addiction on mother

A Perth woman who claimed her own mother caused her heroin addiction has been jailed for two years. Khaya Ghekis from Magpie Way got involved in dealing after her mother and stepfather were jailed. The 22 year old was caught with heroin at the family home in Viewlands place last year. She previously almost died from an overdose in custody four years ago.

PM backs Black Watch red hackle

The Prime Minister says the famous red hackle of the black watch will never be changed. It comes amid speculation the plume will become purple to match the uniform of other TA battalions. During Prime Ministers Question Time, Gordon Brown announced the hackle would stay red for as long as the army exists. The battalion, who are currently in Afghanistan, have their headquarters in Perth.

More staff for Community Justice Authority

More funding's been made available for the Community Justice Authority in Perth. Almost 135 thousand pounds has been given to the service across Tayside. Kenny Macaskill says he hopes the money will provide swifter and more effective community justice. The money will be spent to secure new staff members.

Wednesday, 1 July 2009

Perth FM News - 1st July 09

No confidence in Council Chief exec

A vote of no confidence in the Chief Executive of Perth and Kinross Council has been lodged. It comes after Kinross Community Council felt Bernadette Malone was unresponsive to their requests. The Convention of Community Councils in Perth and Kinross say she repeatedly ignores and marginalizes them.

Threat to Perthshire village under discussion

Environmental threats to Perthshire's largest village are under discussion tonight. The new steering Group set up in Scone will meet at the Old Church Hall. Scone Organisation for the protection of the environment has been set up to cull over-development in the village. Tonight's agenda will include plans for another supermarket at Balgarvie. The meeting will being at half past seven.

Old computers needed in Perth

A charity is asking people in Perth to donate old computers to be sent to Africa. Computers4 Africa is collecting IT equipment at the former B&Q warehouse in ST Catherine's Retail Park. The ability to teach children in Africa how to use computers is an important part of education and could change their lives. The charity is also entering names into a prize draw to win a trip to Gambia.