Monday, 30 November 2009

Orchards could be part of 800 celebrations

Perth's historic orchards could be revived as part of next year's 800 celebrations. A public meeting has been called to discuss the potential of an Orchard 800 project after the success of a similar scheme in the Carse of Gowrie. Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust is backing the plans and believe it would follow the long tradition of growing fruit in Perth. Little remains of Perthshire's plum and pear orchards and the 800 celebrations could be a timely intervention. The meeting will be held on Wednesday ay 7 o'clock in the AK Bell library.

Rise in Shoplifting causes concern

A Perth councillor has raised his concerns for the levels of shoplifting occurrences in Tayside. Councillor Alexander Stewart, a member of the Tayside joint police board asked to see the figures at a recent board meeting. There has been a rise of approximately 30 percent since 2001/2002, though there has been a slight drop in the statistics for the last 6 months. Now there are worries that temptation could prove too much over the Christmas period, when shops are busy.

Power Plan on show to public

Members of the public were able to take the opportunity at the weekend to view the plans for a hydro-electric system at the Birks of Aberfeldy. The developers took their chance to state their case to sceptics in the town on Saturday for the small-scale scheme at the Falls of Moness. Environmentalists fear it will disturb the area, but following public consultation, Perth and Kinross' planning department gave consent. Developers say the project could generate enough hyrdo-electric energy to power 1000 homes and provide local construction jobs.

Friday, 27 November 2009

Perth FM News - 27 Nov 09

PKC to freeze council tax for another year

The Scottish Government's Finance secretary John Swinney yesterday announced the funding for local authorities, in order to freeze council taxes for the third consecutive year. Perth and Kinross Council has received an extra 250 thousand pounds for the coming year and 280 thousand for 2010-11. The settlement was as the Council expected and have announced their freeze on council tax for a further year. The council aims to save 6 million pounds, and next week's strategic policy meeting will discuss how to save almost 2 million of that amount.

STAR Awards reveal Florist as top business

The Perthshire Chamber of Commerce STAR awards have revealed a Blairgowrie Florist as Perthshire's best business. Something Special Flowers walked off with the area's top business accolade at the Perth Concert Hall last night. Over 300 representatives from the local business community attended the sell-out event which recognised and rewarded business achievement during 2009.

Local Hotel awarded at World Hotel convention in Venice

The Gleneagles Hotel has been recognised with a Commitment to Excellence award at a convention for the Leading Hotels of the World in Venice. Honoured alongside hotels in India and Japan, Gleneagles scored the Highest in its category for efforts towards the environment, community and cultural support. Gleneagles has a dedicated environmental team the considers aspects from recycling to energy efficiency. Guests also help out with a discretionary 1 pound per night donated to Perthshire Big Tree Country.

Wednesday, 25 November 2009

Perth FM News - 25 Nov 09

Committee refuses application for incinerator

Members of Perth and Kinross Council's Development Control Committee voted unanimously last night to refuse the application for an incinerator on Shore Road. In a lengthy meeting that began early in the afternoon, the debate was well attended by members of the public who are urging the Council to revoke the original planning consent. The committee did not have the power, however, to do that, but have recommended a report be submitted to the next Full Council meeting on that issue.

Heavy Rain affects Perthshire farmers

The torrential rain recently has affected Perthshire farmers with flooded fields, which can affect their livelihoods. Now, the local conservative politicians are calling for support and assistance from the Government to help the farmers. Conservative Westminister candidate Peter Lyburn has also asked for a National Flood review to put Tayside high on its priority list. Recent figures showing an increase in river flow throughout the area have highlighted a need for new or improved flood defences.

Tayside Police support ribbon campaign

Tayside Police has joined forces with Tayside Fire and Rescue and NHS Tayside to pledge support for the White Ribbon Campaign. The Campaign started in Canada in 1991 when a handful of men decided they had a responsibility to speak out against violence against women. They decided wearing a white ribbon would be a symbol of their pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women, and it is now the largest campaign of its type in the world aimed at men. November 25 is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and in Scotland, a domestic violence incident is recorded every 11 minutes. Police Officers are being encouraged to wear the white ribbon on their uniform, and white ribbons will be available to members of the public at police stations across Tayside.

Tuesday, 24 November 2009

Perth FM news - 24 Nov 09

Drug operations lead to fall in prosecutions

Operations targeting drug dealers in Tayside have led to a fall in prosecutions for possession, according to Police. Figures have been released by the Scottish Government showing convictions for drug possession, which has dropped by over 30 percent from last year. Tayside Police have been cracking down on dealers in the area and the number of those convicted has risen by nearly 20 percent. The force has been involved in long-term investigations into organised crime groups, which has affected the supply chain.

Report highlights road fatalities in Perthshire

Today has seen the publication of the Reported Road Casualties Scotland report for 2008. There were 14 fatalities in Perth and Kinross during the year, with a total of 488 injurues of some form on local roads, 41 of which, were children. This is a decrease from previous years, however local politicians feel it is still far too high and have called for action to improve road systems. Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser wants to see investments in the road networks, including in that the proposed duelling of the A9 between Perth and Inverness.

Kinross flood prevention should be priority

Local MP Gordon Banks has called for increased spending to make flood prevention a top priority for Kinross. The area has been badly affected in the past and the threat of flooding is ever present to a substantial area of the town. Mr Banks believes funding from the Scottish Government is needed and that Councils have a lack of resources to deal with flooding in the long term. He has also said he will continue to work closely with residents and businesses in the area.

Monday, 23 November 2009

Perth FM News - 23 Nov 09

MP meets with Supermarket chain about development plans

Ochil & South Perthshire MP Gordon Banks met with representatives of Sainsbury's and the local community last week to discuss recent proposals for a new supermarket on the old Perth mart site. Sainsbury's have proposed a new 70 thousand sq foot facility which would support around 500 jobs. The plans are part of a larger Leisure Centre, proposed for the area, which would also include a cinema, gym, restaurants and housing. Mr Banks has said the community groups appear supportive, with concerns being raised specifically around the transport infrastructure as well as plans for spare ground nearby.

Flood warnings remain in place

Areas of Perthshire are still on alert with flood warnings, despite having coped with the heavy weekend downpours. River levels didn't reach those of last week, however, the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency still has four flood warnings in place. These include the communities between the River Tay at Kenmore and Dunkeld, also Aberfeldy, the River Earn from Comrie to Crieff and the River Isla from Bridge of Ruthven to the River Tay. All the rivers have peaked for today but should the weather worsen SEPA may upgrade to severe flood warnings.

Community wardens help improve living standards

New Community Wardens in Perth and Rattray are helping to improve and enhance living standards in those communities. Acting as the 'eyes and ears of the community', the Wardens Service has been operating in the Letham and Hillyland areas of Perth for nearly five years. Their role as a reassurance to the community and a deterrent against anti-social behaviour new schemes in Muirton and North Muirton are working to build positive relationships with young people of the area. While in Rattray, the police have tasked Wardens with dealing with anti-social behaviour complaints, thereby saving on police resources.

Friday, 20 November 2009

Perth FM news - 20 Nov 09

Packed meeting on Dall Estate plans

Over 100 people packed into a public meeting last night organised by MP for Perth and North Perthshire, Pete Wishart. It took place to discuss the plans for the development of the Dall Estate on Loch Rannoch. Described as a 'millionaire's playground', developer Malcolm James plans to create an exclusive resort with two golf courses and more. The proposal has been opposed by local residents and conservation organisation and the developer's agents took questions from the floor. Mr Wishart believes the turn out shows the scale of concern that the local community has, and the developers have their work cut out for them if they are to address all the issues covered.

Flood warnings issued for Perthshire roads

The constant rain from the last two days has caused problems for motorists around Perthshire, with routes into Perth hit with localised flooding. Flood watches are still in force throughout the county, with the rivers Tay and Almond still running high, and not expected to peak until the middle of today. Although there isn't any expected problems for Perth itself, areas around Kenore, Aberfeldy and Dunkeld are on flood watch. The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency is warning people to remain on guard and drive with caution.

Tayside shows high number of penalty notices

Recently released figures have shown an alarmingly high amount of fixed penalty notices issued in Tayside. Notices locally that have been issued for such offences as urinating in the streets or consuming alcohol in a public area are higher than most other Police Force areas – second only to Strathclyde. Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser thinks the figures are appalling but has praised the police.

Thursday, 19 November 2009

Perth FM News - 19 Nov 09

Public Meeting tonight in Loch Rannoch

MP for Perth and North Perthshire Pete Wishart will tonight be holding a public meeting in the Loch Rannoch hotel. The meeting will be to discuss the public views on the proposed 'millionaire's playground' on the Dall Estate. Mr Wishart was concerned earlier this week, when it was revealed that neither the developer nor their agent had accepted his invitation. Conservation groups such as the RSPB and the Scottish National Heritage have already expressed their concerns on the impact the resort would have on the surrounding area.

SEPA evidence shows river flows in Tayside increasing

The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency has released evidence that shows river flows in Tayside are increasing. A joint initiative between SEPA and the Macauley Land Use Research Institute has resulted in the publication of a Water Quality Atlas for Scottish rivers, which shows the annual mean for the Tayside basin area.
Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife Murdo Fraser believes this means the Government should take action with improvements to flood prevention schemes.

Rally begins tonight at Scone Palace

The Rally of Scotland is coming to Perthshire and will be kicked off this evening with a ceremonial start at Scone Palace. First Minister Alex Salmond will be in attendance along with racing legend Sir Jackie Stewart. Both will officially start the event, which then includes two circuits of a stage that will take competitors right past the Palace itself. There will also be entertainment with pipers, dancers and an autograph session with the top ten drivers.

Wednesday, 18 November 2009

Perth FM News - 18 Nov 09

Perthshire couple's horrifying ordeal

A Perthshire couple are recovering after a terrifying hour long ordeal in their home last night. Just before 9 o’clock three masked men entered their house near Pitcairngreen and tied the couple up. A 57-year-old man was then assaulted and threatened with a knife and other weapons and at one point during the incident he was taken from the house and thrown down a steep banking into the nearby River Almond. The couple were both left tied up whilst the men made their escape. The area has been cordoned off to allow Forensic Examination with Police saying the three men wore balaclavas but had distinctive local accents.

NHS Tayside marks National COPD Day

NHS Tayside is today marking National COPD Day which is aimed at raising public awareness of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema are often looked over by media and the public but COPD is considered the fifth biggest killer in the UK, and the fourth leading cause of disease world wide. Almost 7000 patients in Tayside are affected and are being encouraged to find out more.

Enchanted Forrest receives Parliamentary praise

The Enchanted Forest and Pitlochry Autumn Festival continue to receive plaudits, most recently from members of the Scottish Parliament. Mid-Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser lodged a Parliamentary Motion in the Scottish Parliament congratulating the events for their success. The Enchanted Forest, which takes place in Faskally Woods, continues to grow - with record numbers visiting the attraction this year. Mr Fraser believes it is now one of Scotlands best tourist events, and its popularity is great news for the local economy.

Tuesday, 17 November 2009

Perth FM News - 17 Nov 09

Sainsbury announce plans for Pitlochry

Supermarket chain Sainsbury's have announced plans for a new store in Pitlochry that could see 150 jobs come to the area. The supermarket has already put forward plans for a store in Perth on the site of the old Perth Mart. Sainsbury's are hoping to bring more competition between larger retailers to Perth and Kinross – with a smaller store in Kinross being the only Sainsbury's currently in the area. This latest proposed development is on Bridge Road, beside the Recreation Ground, with Sainsbury’s chiefs pledging to work with local residents to ensure current usages of the park can continue.

NHS Tayside seek views on health of communities

NHS Tayside are asking the people of Perth and Kinross to share their views on the health of future generations. A new strategy called 'Communities in Control' has been developed to address the problems NHS staff see everyday. In Tayside those who live in an area of higher deprivation may have a much higher chance of poorer health, which is refered to has 'health inequalities'. NHS Tayside has been carrying out extensive research in relation to the problem and is now asking for public opinion through a survey on the Tayside public health website.

Dall Estate public meeting invites developer

MP Pete Wishart has reiterated his hope that an arranged public meeting about development plans for the Dall Estate will be well attended. The meeting has been arranged to allow the public to put forward their views on the plans to build a 'millionaire’s playground' on the Perthshire Estate. Mr Wishart yesterday expressed concern that both the developer and their agent have yet to confirm their attendance. The meeting will take place on Thursday Night in the Loch Rannoch Hotel.

Monday, 16 November 2009

Local community groups share Lottery funding

A number of community groups in Perth and Kinross have shared over 50 thousand pounds of lottery funding. Eight organisations have been successful in the National Lottery's Awards for All scheme, which gives out small grants to local organisations. The money will be used on a variety of different projects, with Perth Academy set to buy gym equipment for extra-curricular and community use, while the Blackwater Public Hall in Blairgowrie has been given over 8000 pounds to replace it's roof. With Perth 800 looming, the Beautiful Perth campaign has also benefited, with a grant towards the purchasing of bulbs for displays as well as children's tools.

Aberfeldy hotel plans seek approval

Councillors will be asked this week to approve a plan for housing needs at the Moness House Hotel and Country Club in Aberfeldy. A similar set of plans were rejected last year, however, they are now seeking to build accommodation to house staff. The previously used building for staff accommodation in Aberfeldy was lost and they are now using a part of the hotel and a timeshare unit. Approving the new plan would be a deviation from normal policies, however, development quality manager Nick Brian is recommending approval.

Scam warning for Perth residents

Perth and Kinross Council's Trading Standards are warning about bogus workmen scams. As the recession continues it's thought more people are taking the chance on cheaper work without checking credentials. The office of Fair Trading's campaign 'Your Doorstep, Your Decision' is aimed at warning households against rogue doorstep traders. In Perth and Kinross such tricks are commonplace because of the high proportion of elderly residents – with Auchterarder and the Viewlands area of Perth having been targeted in September.

Friday, 13 November 2009

Perth FM News - 13 Nov 09

Perth bid to Regeneration fund a success

The Scottish Government has today announced further funding from the 60 million pound regeneration investments. Perth has been included, with the Local Authority's successful bid for 750 thousand pounds. The money will be used to improve the High Street and also for the refurbishment of Perth Theatre. SNP Parliamentarians Roseanna Cunningham and Pete Wishart have already voiced their delight at the bid's success.

Tayside Swine Flu patients on the rise

The number of patients being admitted with swine flu to hospitals in Tayside has risen in the last week. 25 people admitted with the H1N1 virus recently, marks the highest number since the start of the outbreak, and the number of patients visiting GPs with flu-like symptoms has also risen substantially. Scottish Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon yesterday warned that a rise is expected as winter kicks in. GPs will be contacting those eligible for the vaccination, with NHS Scotland having received about 40 percent of the total required for the priority groups.

Incinerator meeting receives recommendation for refusal

A special meeting of the Development Control Committee is due to take place on November 24th to deal with the issue of an incinerator for Perth. A report by Head of Planning Roland Bean recommends refusal of the application, which would see a waste to energy facility built with a 260 foot chimney stack. The report also recommends the relocation of the current recycling plant on Shore Road due to over-development of the site as well as its visual impact. Opposition to the plans has been widespread in the Perth community, with protests taking place on the High Street and local politicians also speaking out against the proposals.

Thursday, 12 November 2009

Black Watch museum launched touring exhibition

The Black Watch Museum has launched their first touring exhibition. Entitled 'This Happens in War', it covers conflicts from the 2nd World War to the Korean war and the Kenyan Insurgency. The exhibition will be shown throughout 2010 in the Black Watch Regimental area.

Perthshire tourism group tries to attract more visitors

A tourism group based in Highland Perthshire is trying to attract more visitors to their area late in the year. The Breadalbane Tourist Group has launched the Discover Breadalbane packages to try and extend the tourist season into the winter. It hopes to showcase the best of the area by offering a range of activities to take part in.
Initially launched to help agricultural businesses, it has been expanded to include tourism and is now being treated as a pilot scheme.

Cultybraggan becomes business community

The Cultybraggan site in Comrie has taken a step closer to becoming a business community. The huts that one held German Prisoners of War have been refurbished and firms are already planning to move in. The MoD had retained the camp after World War 2 as a training site but closed it in 2004. It was then bought by the Comrie Development Trust in 2006, who purchased the land before any large scale housing developers in order to preserve to village's look.

Wednesday, 11 November 2009

Perth FM News - 11th Nov 09

Perth Prison Governor praised over leadership

The Governor of Perth prison has been praised for her 'inspiring leadership'. MSP Roseanna Cunningham yesterday visited the jail to tour the facility and to speak with the Governor – Kate Donegan. The old C Hall has been razed to make way for a new accommodation block, with only the facade remaining. Ms Cunningham praised the staff at the jail for doing their difficult job extremely well. The third phase of the Perth prison upgrade is now underway, with a new entrance and visitor complex taking shape.

Local MSP voices concerns over wildlife crimes

Mid-Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser has voiced his concern at the number of wildlife crimes taking place in Tayside. Figures were revealed through a parliamentary question to the Cabinet Secretary for Justice Kenny MacAskill, which showed 22 wildlife crimes in the area take place in 2008/09. That figure is the third highest recorded year for wildlife crime in Tayside in the last ten years. Mr Fraser wants to a reduction in the number of offences and wants constituents in Tayside to work with Tayside Police on the matter to reduce and end wildlife crimes in the area.

Licensing board sets festive hours

Perth and Kinross Licensing Board has set the Festive Licensing Hours for 2009.

The introduction of new regulations under the Licensing Act of 2005 has changed the requirement to apply for extended hours. Where licensed premises' operating plans include reference to Festive Function Hours, they don't need to apply for extended hours during the main Christmas Period. Licensing Board Convener, Councillor Bob Band is reminding licensees of their responsibilities and hopes they will maintain the highest standards possible for customers.

Tuesday, 10 November 2009

Perth FM News - 10 November 09

Millionaire's Playground public meeting called

Plans for a millionaire's playground in Perthshire are to be discussed at a public meeting later this month. MP Pete Wishart has arranged the meeting for the Rannoch community and will chair the debate on November 19th. The plans are proposed for the Dall Estate and many have objected, with the Dall Community Association saying they wish the area to be enjoyed by everybody and not just the mega rich. Developers and their agents have been invited to participate in the meeting, as well as groups and individuals.

Best Bar None Awards take place for Perth winners

The winners of this year’s Best Bar None Awards, which recognise good safety policy and customer care in Perth city centre licensed premises, were announced today. The Best Bar None scheme aims to make the city centre a safe and welcoming place for people who visit it at night. The awards, sponsored by Diageo, are a part of the Safer Cities Initiative across Scotland. Twenty Perth licensed premises applied for this year, with 17 receiving one of the awards.

NHS Tayside scoop top IT award

And NHS Tayside was presented with a top award at the recent Scottish Clinical Information in Practice conference in Dunblane. The awards is a prestigious competition open to organisations who have successfully implemented a service support by Information technology. NHS Tayside have received their award for best use of IT in Primary Care for a Scottish Government funded project aimed at providing a core patient record system. The award recognises the work involved in developing and implementing the system, currently in use by over 1700 staff.

Monday, 9 November 2009

Incinerator protestors take to the High Street

In a few weeks time, Councillors will be meeting to decide the fate of the planned incinerator for Perth City Centre. Protestors took to the High Street on Saturday to gather signatures for a petition and were joined by local politicians. MP Pete Wishart made an appearance as well as Conservative politicians MSP Murdo Fraser and MSP Elizabeth Smith. The planned 100 million pound incinerator would include a 262 foot chimney stack and has been widely opposed by the Perth Community.

Strathearn Campus handed over to PKC

The Strathearn Community Campus in Crieff was today handed over to Perth and Kinross Council. Depute Leader of the Administration, Councillor George Hayton received the keys to the campus, which will be open to the public on Wednesday and opens to pupils on Thursday. The campus brings together state of the art facilities for the local area as well as the school pupils with modern classrooms and community facilities such as a full size all weather pitch and a recording studio. A special weekend of events and activities is being held next month to celebrate the campus opening.

St Johnstone draw Rangers in Cup semi

The draw for the semi-final of the CIS Insurance Cup was made just after 2 o'clock this afternoon and St Johnstone have been drawn against Rangers, with the tie due to be played in early February. Saints last played Rangers in the League Cup in 2006, when they won 2-0. Since then they have faced the Glasgow side twice, once in the Scottish Cup and once so far in the Premier League this season, and lost on both occasions. St Johnstone's last Cup final was back in 1998, when they lost out to Rangers 2-1.

Friday, 6 November 2009

Perth FM News - 6 November 09

Local MSP airs concerns for Perthshire Whisky industry

The Scottish Parliament has this week debated the Minimum Pricing of Alcohol, which could affect the Perthshire whisky industry. Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser led the debate on the policy, which he believes will punish responsible drinkers. The whisky industry adds to the Perthshire economy greatly, including the tourism economy with the distillery tours.

Last of Black Watch soldiers return home

The last of the soldiers of the Black Watch, 3rd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland will be returning home tomorrow, after a 7 month tour of duty in Afghanistan. The troops will be welcomed back by Commanding officer Leftenant Colonel Stephen Cartwright, as well as colleagues who have already returned.
The Battalion was an integral part of Operation Panther's Claw, which took place over the summer to prepare for the country’s elections. Soldiers of the Black Watch will be parading through Perth during December, as well as on Sunday during the Remembrance Day events.

Tayside Police launch new crime reporting scheme

A scheme designed to encourage individuals from minority groups to report hate crime was launched in Tayside yesterday. The Tayside Police Remote Reporting service allows members of the public to report crimes to the police without having to speak to an officer directly by filling in a form on the Tayside Police website. A number of local and national organisations have also signed up as Remote Reporting Sites, where you can report to members of staff there. The service is aimed at all members of the public who may feel anxious or intimidated about contacting the police directly.

Wednesday, 4 November 2009

Perth FM News - 4th November 09

Pedestrian has died in collision on A9

A pedestrian has died following a collision with a van last night on the A9. The 17 year old has now been formally identified as Ross Robert Murray from Aberfeldy. He had been on foot when he collided with white Mercedes Van at around 5.30 yesterday evening. Emergency services were quick to attend, but found him with extensive head injuries and declared him dead at the scene. Tayside Police had closed the road at Faskally while carrying out an investigation. The road re-opened in the early hours of the morning.

Local MSP calls for National Flooding Review

Mid-Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser has repeated his call for a National Flooding Review following the latest flooding incidents in Scotland. Last month Mr Fraser lodged a parliamentary question asking the Government what action it will take. In response, Environment Minister and Perth MSP Roseanna Cunningham stated each local authority is to consider its own priorities. However, Mr Fraser believes the latest severe weather and flooding shows that a national response is needed to develop proper defences. The Tay and its tributaries cover a massive area and flooding in recent years has caused disruption and damage to Highland Perthshire communities in Kenmore, Dunkeld, Aberfeldy and Dalguise.

Perth polticians welcome Aviva report

Perth politicians have welcomed the 3rd Quarter report from Aviva. The insurance company are a major employer in Perth, and the latest report shows they are performing well in the UK and globally. Perth MP Pete Wishart believes a healthy Aviva can only be good news locally, as Perth is one of the company's UK Centres of Excellence. Local MSP Roseanna Cunningham has said she keeps a close eye on how the company are performing and is pleased with their current report.

Tuesday, 3 November 2009

Local MSPs won't claim for Poppy Wreaths

Local MSPs have said they will not be charging the tax payer for their Remembrance Day Wreaths this year. The Scottish Parliament allows for politicians to claim back the money, though it's not allowed in Westminister. With the expenses row still going strong, MSPs across the country have spoken out, including Conservative MSPs Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith, and Perth MSP Roseanna Cunningham. They have pledged to buy their own wreaths, which raise funds for war veterans young and old.

Local MP hits out as administrators take half of Farepak payout

A local MP has hit out as administrators take half of the Farepak payout. MP for Perth and North Perthshire Pete Wishart has campaigned on behalf of locals who suffered when the hamper firm collapsed 3 years ago. Reports so far suggest that of the 6 million pounds recovered, 3 million has been swallowed up paying the bills of accountants and lawyers while customers are expected to receive only 5 pence for every pound lost. Mr Wishart feels that’s a slap in the face to the victims who continue to wait for compensation. He also believes the UK government should look into the way the insolvency industry operates.

Black Watch head home this week

Black Watch soldiers will be returning from Afghanistan this week. Three flights will bring the 430 soldiers from the 3rd Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland back from their 7-month tour. Five Black Watch soldiers lost their lives and 31 were wounded in action during operations in the southern region of the war torn country. After their return a series of homecoming marches are planned, including those in Perthshire during December.

Monday, 2 November 2009

Perth FM News - 2nd November 09

Yesterday's downpoour is still causing flooding problems around Perthshire

The weekend's downpour has been causing problems still throughout the day around rural areas of Perthshire. River levels throughout Tayside are high and fast flowing but appear to be leveling out and have not been affected by the incoming tide. Tayside Police along with SEPA are continuing to monitor the situation. Roads are slowly re-opening throughout today with the B954 Alyth to Meigle road the latest to re-open within the last few hours. Motorists are being advised to check the SEPA website as well as trafficscotland to check their routes before leaving home.

50 thousand pounds of Heroin recovered by Road Policing Officers

Heroin with an estimated street value of 50 thousand pounds was recovered by road policing officers in Perthshire late last week. The officers were patrolling the A9 Stirling to Perth Road at around midnight on Thursday when they stopped a vehicle and the heroin was recovered. Two men from the Aberdeenshire area aged 36 and 21, have been charged and will be appearing at Perth Sheriff Court today. These arrests follow the seizure of 125 thousand pounds worth of Heroin last Wednesday on the same road.

More local success stories in 2014 Communities Fund

More successful grants have been made locally in another round of funding by the 2014 Commonwealth Communities programme. Perth and Kinross Association of Voluntary service has received a grant for a service that promotes and publicises walking as physical activity, and Perth Grammar School's grant will go towards kit, strips and a training course for their netball team. The 2014 Communities scheme is about building a legacy of well-being before and beyond the Commonwealth Games and gives out grants of up to 1000 pounds to clubs and community organisations to stimulate involvement in sports.