Friday, 30 July 2010

Perth FN News - 30th July 2010

Funfair will be staying on Inch

After days of confusion over whether or not the fun fair should be operating on the south inch, M and Ds have said they will be staying. The Council has also confirmed that they have been in discussions with the operators. Noise tests were carried out yesterday and they indicated it could operate without causing nuisance to residents.
The Council has now agreed to grant a ground let but the funfair operators have agreed to strict guidelines, with it now closing at 8pm each night and not operating on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. They also have strict conditions on litter, waste water and vehicle access.

MSP visits CATH day centre

MSP Murdo Fraser visited the CATH day care centre yesterday for a catch up visit and to hear about the charity's social enterprise projects. Meeting with members of the organisations steering group, he was updated on all aspects of their work for the Homeless. One concern was, of course, budgets and funding for the coming year, something Mr Fraser knows affects all charities.

Arrest made in T in the Park assault

A man has been arrested over an incident at last month’s T in the Park. The 28 year old has been charged with an alleged abduction and rape at the music festival. The man, from Peebles, is expected to appear at Perth Sheriff Court today.

Thursday, 29 July 2010

Perth FM News - 29th July 2010

Travellers Irk South Inch locals

One Councillor has reacted with dismay, as a funfair sets up shop on the Inch. Inundated with phone calls and complaints, Councillor Heather Stewart says she predicted problems ahead of the fair being granted a license. Confusion now reigns as the Fair may have the license to operate but does NOT have a lease for the site they are currently on.

'Betrayal of Highland Perthshire' with wind approval

The Scottish Government 'betrayed Highland Perthshire' when they granted permission for the Calliacher wind development – according to a local MSP. Conservative Murdo Fraser is now worried about the legal costs that Perth and Kinross Council may now face. He says it adds insult to injury that it could now cost the council thousands of pounds in compensations. Local opposition was strong, which is why the decision disappoints Mr Fraser.

Parks get green recognition

Three of Perthshire's parks have been recognised as some of the best free green spaces in the country. Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park, Larghan Park in Coupar Angus and Victoria Park in Aberfeldy are now to display Green Flags after success in the Green Flag Awards. Only green spaces open to the public can enter in ther awards run by Keep Britain Tidy and GreenSpace. They were judged on their well-maintained facilities, safety and security.

Wednesday, 28 July 2010

John Muir Trust condemn Scottish Government decision

The John Muir Trust have condemned the Scottish Government's decision to approve a wind development farm at Calliacher. The development will have 14 wind turbines over 300 feet high. The John Muir trust is a wild land charity and they say it could have an impact on tourism. With the Beauly to Denny line running through Highland Perthshire as well as another development (Griffin) they say it could blight the landscape and stop visitors from coming to the area.

Jobs created in Blairgowrie with new store

25 jobs are to be created in Blairgowrie when a new store open in three weeks. The Original Factory Shop is understood to be pumping 250 thousand pounds into the old Ethel Austin site. It is the latest in the chains 140 stores nationwide. Shop bosses have pledged to make the store an integral part of the local community.

Big amateur Golf tour in Perth

The William Hunt Trilby Tour is currently in Perth. Their Scottish Championship is being held today ay Marrayshall who were delighted to be chosen as the Scottish home of the Trilby Tour. The regional championship is one of eight being held throughout the UK. The event is the biggest televised amateur competition – watched by over one and a half million viewers last year.

Tuesday, 27 July 2010

Perth FM News 27th July 2010

Vet Medal gets local support

Veterans fighting for the award of a National Defence Medal have won the backing of a local Perth MSP. Conservative Murdo Fraser has signed a parliamentary motion calling for the medal to be created. The motion was originally lodged by Conservative MSP John Scott. Mr Fraser says it's a privilege to back the campaign and hopes veterans will be officially recognised for their service.

Fire and Rescue warning for jet skiers

Tayside Fire and Rescue are warning jet skiers and power boats using the Tay to be aware of their training exercises. When training is taking place for the water rescue teams they use lines that could pose a danger to high speed vehicles. With their changing rotas, they are not always out on the water at the same time or same place. It is expected that signs will be erected but in the meantime they recommend that those going out on the water check along its length to see if there is any activity.

4x4 driver trapped in wreckage

A driver was trapped in wreckage last night after a head on collision in Perthshire. The man was driving a 4x4 that was involved in the incident with a tour bus. It happened on the A93 north of Bridge of Cally after 7 o'clock last night. An off duty firefighter was first on the scene and he was able to guide rescue workers to the site where they found the man still trapped in his car. The driver of the bus and passengers escaped without serious injury

Monday, 26 July 2010

Perth FM News - 26th July 2010

Perthshire records go online

Records of Perthshire's history have been made available online. Over 57 thousand documents spanning 400 years of Perth's history are now online at ancestry.co.uk. Perth's records include the School Register for Admissions and Withdrawals from 1869 to 1901 – which has over 75 thousand names of pupils and guardians. Also featured is the Perthshire Militia Survey from 1802, which lists over a thousand names of men eligible to fight.

Scouting at Blair Atholl

Around 1200 Scouts and adult volunteers from 19 countries are gathered at Blair Atholl for the 32nd Scottish International Patrol Jamborette. Beginning last week, the Jamborette finishes this Saturday. Scouts aged 13 to 17 paired with others from as far a-field as Japan and the USA for the experience. It's designed to help the Scouts make friends and share cultures while taking on various challenges and adventurous activities.

Saint kept away from Ireland visit

One of St Johnstone's latest signings will be unable to make the trip to Ireland with the team for two pre-season friendlies. Striker Scott Dobie suffered a groin injury last week against Arbroath and manager Derek McInnes doesn't want to risk it this week. As Saints prepare for the start of the season, Jamie Adams will not be available for the first game with a carry over suspension. And manager Derek McInnes will also be facing a two game touchline ban after he was sent to the stand during the last game of the season against Hamilton.

Friday, 23 July 2010

Perth FM News - 23rd July 2010

Veterans' Housing development opened

A new housing development for veterans has been officially opened today in Scone. Poppy Court has ten flats that provide modern accommodation to meet the needs of ex-service people with disabilities. The development was named 'Poppy Court' after its major funder – Poppy Scotland.

Climate Change Minister visits Comrie

A Perthshire community led project is being visited today by Scotland's Climate Change Minister. MSP Stewart Stevenson is in Comrie to see the work done by the Comrie Development Trust. Money from the Government''s Climate Challenge Fund was used in such projects as renewable energy and insulation. Mr Stevenson says working together is the way to tackle Climate change, which is why visiting such projects is so important.

Housing project completed early

A Perthshire housing project has been completed early. The multi-million pound project aimed at providing better housing throughout the region. Nearly 7000 homes have now received new bathrooms and kitchens. The project began in 2005 and has now been completed with 3 months to spare.

Thursday, 22 July 2010

Perth FM News - 22nd July 2010

From flooding to dry in 24 hours

Feus Road today had nothing more than a few puddles – a sharp contrast from the day before. Tayside Fire and Rescue remained on the scene today in case residents needed additional help but found very few takers. Thanks to the help of Shell, firefighters were able to pump the water from the street into tankers who then transported it to reservoirs.Stewart Edgar, Area Manager for Tayside Fire and Rescue had nothing but praise for his firefighters, who were mobiled across Perth.

MSP visits Feus Road to survey flood aftermath

Local MSP Roseanna Cunningham surveyed the aftermath on Feus Road earlier today. Visiting in her capacity as Scotland's Environment Miniser, she spoke with Fire and Rescue personnel as well as the Council, SEPA and the Scottish Flood Forum. Flash flooding was out of the blue for an area used to worrying about river levels.

Flood Forum come to Perth to aid residents

The Scottish Flood Forum are setting up shop in Perth to help residents affected by the water. They'll be at the Fairfield Community Centre from tomorrow morning. (9am - 1pm) So far they are also scheduled to be there until next Wednesday though they expect the process to run for a few months.

Wednesday, 21 July 2010

Perth FM News - 21st July 2010

Localised flooding in Perth - road closures and bad conditions

Tayside Fire and Rescue and Perth and Kinross Council have taken a number of measures today to attend flood risks. The worst affected area is Feus Road, which has been closed for the majority of the day following the heavy rainfall. Sandbags were delivered to local properties and Tayside Fire and Rescue brought in a high velocity water pump. The Lade suice gate was opened to its maximum setting to help alleviate the situation. Fairfield community centre is also open today as there has been flood water in a few properties in the area.

Fire and Rescue warn of dangers of flood water

Warnings have been issued by Tayside Fire and Rescue about the dangers of flood water. It's recommended that people do not touch it, and wash hands thoroughly if they do. Children should be kept clear and it’s not advisable to walk or drive through it.

Friarton depot official opens after refurbishment

Today marked the opening of the newly refurbished 4 million pound recycling depot at Friarton. Now the facility will help the Council head towards national recycling targets in 2013. In use since the 1070s, the depot is today handling levels of about 95 thousand tonnes and required upgrading.

Tuesday, 20 July 2010

Perth FM News - 20th July 2010

Diabetes Roadshow on High Street

National charity Diabetes UK is on the High Street today with their 'measure up' roadshow. They have toured the country carrying out risk assessments for those worried that they are or could later be affected by Diabetes. They'll be on Perth's High Street until 5pm on Wed 21st July.

Hydro project work begins

Work began yesterday on a Blairgowrie hydro project designed to generate 30 thousand pounds a year for local projects. A turbine is to be installed at the north end of Oakbank Mill Lade, near the existing weir. The electricity generated is to be sold to the national grid. The hydro scheme is the first phase of a project, with 12 acres of land then to be turned into a 'mini Eden'.

Project aims to make Graveyards more green

A new project has been launched aiming at making graveyards more green. Two biodiversity projects are being run by Tayside Biodiversity Partnerships. It is to review the grounds and kirkyards to see what species are in graveyards. Events have also been scheduled around the project with activities at Ardoch and Muthil to see moth and bat activity.

Monday, 19 July 2010

Perth FM News 19th July 2010

Councilor calls for consultation on Bridge

City Centre councillor Archie MacLellan has called for an open consultation to be held on the work for the new foot and cycle bridge over the Tay. Following complaints from North Inch golfers and concerns from residents he believes all opinions should be heard on the project. The Bridge is to be built following local transport group TACTRAN's lottery funding win. Exploratory drilling already began recently causing upset to those in the area.

Housing Minister visits Perth

The Scottish Minister for Housing and Communities visited Perth today as part of a series of national discussion events. Held at AK Bell library this morning, MSP Alex Neil spoke with home owners, tenants and councillors about the housing system.

MP appeals to Gov't over youth jobs cuts

Ochil and South Perthshire MP Gordon Banks has urged the Government not to cut youth jobs. The Labour representative says his party's Future Job Fund created 15 thousand jobs in Scotland. Plans are currently in place to take the funding away, and while youth unemployment in the area is 2 percent above the national average he is concerned about opportunities.

Friday, 16 July 2010

Perth FM News - 16th July 2010

Worries over Perth hotel reservation jobs

Concerns have been raised by a local councillor as Travelodge announce their acquisition of two Perth hotels. A spokesperson for the firm has said they will do their utmost to retain jobs during the transition. But Conservative Councilor Alexander Stewart is concerned for those based at the Isle of Skye hotel's reservations team where 23 are currently employed. Whether the national call centre will be integrated into the travelodge set up is as yet unknown - worrying staff.

Taxi marshals return

Taxi rank marshals will be returning to Perth tonight. Their role will be to help night-time summer revellers. The scheme has been co-ordinated by the Safer Cities manager alongside Tayside Police, Taxi owners and Perth Common Good Fund. It helps ensure the safety of drivers and the public, with two marshals at the rank during busy periods. Marshals will be in place through to the 14th of August.

Saints sign new striker

St Johnstone manager Derek McInnes this week tied up his fourth summer signing. Sam Parkin has now been added to the squad ahead of the next season. The pre-season friendly schedule is looking full, with a trip to Ireland ahead of games against Bolton Wanderers and Real Valladolid. The other headline game of the pre-season is Alan Main's testimonial against a Manchester United eleven.

Thursday, 15 July 2010

Perth FM News -- 15th July 2010

Economy of Etape report released

An independent report has been released on the economic impact of the Etape Caledonia. The event, which supports Macmillan Cancer has had a growing influence on the highland Perthshire economy. The report has shown over 1 million pounds was brought in this year - higher than the figure from 2009. A majority of participants in the study also said they would return to Perthshire for a holiday.

Tourism minister gathers organisations for meeting

Local organisations, businesses and the Council all met this morning in Birnam to discuss tourism. They were joined by Scottish Tourism minister Jim Mather. Discussions centred on how to promote Perthshire as a destination for tourists.

Swinney comments on employment figures

Scotland's Finance Secretary John Swinney has commented on the latest job figures released. Unemployment rates up to May were at over 8 percent. The North Tayside MSP says the Scottish Government needs to nurture the economy and protect recovery.

Wednesday, 14 July 2010

Perth FM News - 14th July 2010

A85 safety a priority

Safety on the A85 should be a top priority says one local MSP. Conservative Liz Smith has highlighted the issues faced by pedestrians and drivers on the road from Perth to Crieff ahead of a meeting tonight. She says the proposed Sainsbury’s store will mean an increase in traffic on a road that already has a poor reputation. The meeting tonight at the Huntingtower hotel will see supermarket official outline their plans for the development.

5 million pound SSE centre opens

Today marked the official opening of the 5 million pound SSE training centre in Perth. MSP John Swinney was on hand to unveil the plaque after a tour of the facility. The centre is set to see 2000 pass through each year and this year they plan to recruit around 200 school leavers.

Vane Farm set for expansion

The RSPB's Vane Farm Nature Reserve is set for a massive expansion over the next year. The Kinross-shire Reserve will see more than 25 hectares of new land included in its boundaries – the equivalent of 30 football pitches. Money will be spent to improve the wetland habitats and boost conservation work. The new land lies along the shore of Loch Leven between Vane Bay and the Gairney Burn.

Tuesday, 13 July 2010

Perth FM News - 13th July 2010

Three charged over T attempted murders

Despite serious assaults that took place at T in the Park over the weekend, Tayside Police are praising the majority of festival goers. Officers have today charged three men in connection with the two attempted murders from Sunday night. The three are all in their early twenties and were expected to appear at Perth Sheriff Court today. The victims, both from Fife suffered stab wounds. One of the men has been discharged from hospital while the other has been moved out of the high dependency ward and his condition is described as serious but stable.

PRI weekend cover to be axed

Weekend emergency surgery appears to have been axed at Perth Royal Infirmary. A meeting this afternoon was being held between Health chiefs and Perth and Kinross Councilors. One councillor, Alexander Stewart has criticised the communication structure in the NHS that lead to an article today on the subject. He says he shouldn't be reading these headlines before an important meeting.

Osprey chicks take first flights

At Loch of the Lowes, two osprey chicks have been taking their first flights. Sunday's flight marked the 47th chick to fledge under care of their famous mother. Ospreys live an average of 8 years, producing 20 chicks in that time. Despite a bout of illness that looked to be the end for Lady, she and the chicks are currently doing well ahead of migration.

Monday, 12 July 2010

Perth FM News - 12th July 2010

Attempted murder at T in the Park

Detectives investigating two attempted murders at T in the Park have now arrested three men. The incident happened just before midnight last night when officers were called to a walkway area between the arena and the campsite. Two 20 year old men were found with serious abdominal injuries and were treated by the on-site medical team before being taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee. Both are described as being in a serious but stable condition. The three arrested are all in their 20s.

Saturday night drug raid in Perth

A 47 year old man is expected to appear at Perth Sheriff Court today after being arrested during a raid on Saturday night. A commercial premises on Friarton Road was searched and large quantities of mephedrone, two pill making machines and a quantity of pill capsules were found. Cocaine, ecstasy and diazepam were also discovered along with a large sum of cash. The man involved has been charged with being concerned in the supply of drugs.

MP left fuming after confusing answer in Westminster

Ochil and South Perthshire MP Gordon Banks has been left fuming after his request for a debate in the House of Commons appeared to fall on deaf ears. Mr Banks made the request last week for a debate on the threat posed by loop chorded blinds only to be answered with a comment on tax. Conservative Leader of the House of Commons, Sir George Young gave Mr Banks the response that has only maddened the local MP.

Friday, 9 July 2010

Perth FM News - 9th July 2010

Tay 'least severe' for droughts

Tayside is in the 'least severe' drought category - according to SEPA. The rest of Scotland has been experiencing problems with almost half the expected rainfall over the last six months. The Tay has been fortunate, as the lochs in the catchment have been harnessed for hydro electricity which gives a moderating effect. SEPA is still urging the public to play their part in alerting it to any problems and by conserving where possible.

Carer work by PKC at International Conference

Work with carers by Perth and Kinross Council is being highlighted at an international conference this week. The fifth International Carers Conference taking place in Leeds, is to hear from the Local Authority's Planning and Policy Officer from Housing and Community Care. The subject of the talk is to be on the use of complimentary therapies for local carers. The council has been providing a breathing space for carers - in partnership with local providers - the support their emotional health and well-being.

T in the Park kicks off

With T in the Park kicking off today at Balado, music lovers from around the country have descended on Perthshire. Tonight sees Muse take to the main stage as the headline act. Police have been warning all week about being careful on site. And Perth and Kinross Council staff will also be on hand to deal with queries whether from residents or festival goers.

Thursday, 8 July 2010

Perth FM News - 8th July 2010

150 jobs could be lost as administrators are called into Perth firm

Administrators were brought in this week as Perth firm is losing the battle for survival in the economic climate. Now it seems likely that 150 jobs at Clachan Construction could be lost as a result. Administrators say their priority is to help the staff, and a buyer to take over the firm seems unlikely. Politicians have already commented, with Perth’s MP Pete Wishart calling the development a 'tragedy'.

MSP welcomes facebook campaign on 'high risk' roads

An internet campaign has been born to try and secure safety improvements on Perth's high risk roads. A new group has been established on facebook to drum up the support. The social networking site is now being used to remind people of the devastating accidents that have occurred on the A85 in recent years, including a tragic recent death of a teenager. MSP for Perth Roseanna Cunningham has spoken of her support for the campaign who says she is very conscious of the issues on that particular road.

Local designer wins Pope visit competition

An award winning designer from Perth has had his logo design chosen to mark the Pope's visit to Scotland later this year. Gregory Millar was inspired by a speech the Pope gave in a visit to America in 2008. Scottish Bishops will now be using the crest for the historic visit in September.

Wednesday, 7 July 2010

Perth FM News - 7th July 2010

Tourism Minister visits Crieff

Tourism Minister, Jim Mather has been in Perthshire today to focus on how the tourism industry has weathered the recession here. As Perthshire heavily relies on its economy from visitors, Mr Mather has been commending the resilience. Mr Mather has commended the Scottish industry for its resilience

Safety Officers child seat check results

Tayside Police Road Safety Officers checked 100 child car seats during recent clinics in Tayside. They say that more than a third required adjustments to make sure they were properly fitted, with two percent even being condemned due to damage or missing parts. That has led to the message from Safety officers that age can deteriorate seats and it's advisable to replace them if they are over 5 years old. Road safety officers were encouraged that the vast majority met European safety regulations.

Comrie square handed to residents for two years

A Perthshire community that turned a derelict plot of land into a village square has been handed the property for community use for two years. Braemore Estates put their building plans on hold and offered the temporary use of the ground to the residents of Comrie who quickly came up with ideas. Turning it into what is now a square with planted border, a picnic area and parking, Braemore Estates managing director William Frame officially handed over the site yesterday. The Friends of the Square group are now hoping to raise enough money to buy the land outright.

Tuesday, 6 July 2010

Perth FM News - 6th July 2010

Man dies in farming accident

A man has died in a tragic farming accident in rural Perthshire. 70-year-old Neil Abercromby was spreading seed in a field near Glencarse when his tractor fell down a steep hill. Emergency services rushed to the scene but pronounced him dead. It's suspected that he was crushed by a seed drilling machine as it broke away from the tractor as it fell. Tayside Police and the Health and Safety Executive are investigating the incident.

Stranger Danger at Perth park

Police in Perth are keen to trace a man who offered to give a brand new bike to any child in a group at Craigie Park last night. As the children played they were approached by the man who said he had a bike in the back of his car parked nearby. Although none of the children accepted the offer, the man spoke with the for five minutes before leaving in a black car. He is described as being about 40 years old, six feet tall and think with short dark hair and a local accent.

Recycling a victim of own success

The recycling of brown lidded bins in Perth and Kinross has been so successful that expansions have had to be put on hold. Council officers and residents have proved to be among the best in Scotland at heading towards national targets. However the workload for council staff has meant that no additional residents can get involved in the scheme currently and have been put on a waiting list. Temporary measures have been put in place in the short term while the local authority finds a solution.

Friday, 2 July 2010

Perth FM News - 2nd July 2010

Perth Day / Armed Forces Day parade a 'stirring spectacle'

Perth Day was marked this morning with Scotland's biggest military parade. HRH Prince Edward also took the time to present Elizabeth Cross medals to family of fallen soldiers. A civic reception has been held at the museum, which includes representatives of Perth's twin cities from across the world. In his speech, Provost of Perth Dr John Hulbert, called the parade a stirring spectacle and referred to His Highness’s visit as the pinnacle of the celebrations for Perth 800.

Nuclear debate passes by one vote

Fierce debate raged in a meeting of the full council yesterday as members debated joining the Nuclear Free Local Authorities campaign. It's aim is to ensure that authorities have no dealings with the controversial energy supply. Opposition were unhappy with the yearly costs of almost 15 hundred pounds and other councillors either walked out of the chambers or abstained. In the end it was passed in favour by only one vote.

Rural communities left behind by poorer broadband?

Rural communities in Perthshire have been fighting for better broadband access and Mid-Scotland and Fife Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser wants to know if the current speed is acceptiable. The Scottish Government has said that 512 kbps is the provision for basic levels across rural and urban areas. They say there's no evidence that faster speeds add any economic benefit. Mr Fraser now wants to here from the Tayside community over whether or not it truly is adequate coverage, as he still feels rural areas are being left behind.

Thursday, 1 July 2010

Perth Fm News - 1st July 2010

No civil service jobs in Perth added

The First Minister has confirmed that the Scottish Government has not relocated a single civil service job to Perth and Kinross since the SNP came to power in 2007. Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser wrote to Alex Salmond asking him for numbers of relocations and how many came to this area. Perth and Kinross Council have put bids forward for jobs here though have never been awarded any. Civil service jobs have been moved out of Edinburgh to areas across Scotland since the establishment of the Scottish Parliament in 1999.

Road work delay - hoped to be cleared by weekend

The road works in the A90 by Kinfauns and St Madoes were due to have finished yesterday but motorists have still found themselves facing delays through today. With a busy weekend of events in Perthshire, with the Scottish Game Fair in particular hoping to see 40 thousand through the gates at Scone Palace, delays on the roads have caused concern for the reputation of the events and the area. A spokesperson from BEAR Scotland who have been operating the works has confirmed that the westbound lane fully re-opened today. The eastbound lane is due to be repainted following completion of the work and they hope to have that completed by tomorrow morning, after the rain clears.

Game Fair begins

And with the Scottish Game Fair starting tomorrow, organisers are hoping for a bigger event than last year. Visiting the fair city for the fair is the hunting horn blowing equipe from France, les trompes de la cottenciniere. Jean Baptiste de Malleray is one of the members of the 12 strong group who are looking forward to playing again in Scotland as it is one of their favourite places.