Perth FM News - 28 October 09

lack Watch soldier who died of woulds sustained in Afghanistan has been named

A Black Watch soldier who died from injuries sustained in Afghanistan has been named as Corporal Thomas Mason from Rosyth. He was serving in Kandahar Province when an improvised explosive device detonated six weeks ago. His commanding officer, Leftenant Colonel Stephen Cartwright has called him a hero, and hopes the family can take comfort from that. The Black Watch, who have historic ties to Perth, are due to return from Afghanistan in November.

Tayside MSP joins WWF Scotland campaign

MSP for North Tayside John Swinney has joined WWF Scotland's "Vote Earth" Campaign. The aim is to urge negotiators at the Copenhagan climate summit in December to follow Scotland's lead on greenhouse gas targets. To make his point, Mr Swinney posed with a speech bubble, which reads: "42% - Scotland did it, so can the EU". Mr Swinney has commented, saying it's important that everyone plays a role in combating climate change, whether by recycling, using public transport or making homes energy efficient.

New Blairgowrie visitor centre plans unveiled

Plans for a new visitors centre in Blairgowrie have been unveiled. The 1.1 million pound centre is to be built on the banks of the River Ericht and is planned to showcase the latest environmental thinking, including a wind turbine and a heat pump. It will be financed by the Blairgowrie and Rattray Regeneration company, who won 1.5 million pounds from the Town Centre Regeneration Fund by the Scottish Government. The rest of their awarded money will go towards a hydro scheme planned for the river.