Perth FM news

Perth FM News - 20/01/11

2011-01-20T08:11:00.000-08:00

Perth's MSP Is Backing A Multi Million Pound Initiative To Support Scotland's Home Builders

Housing Minister Alex Neil's announced 5 million's to be spent on this... and helping first time buyers get on to the property ladder. The scheme, which allows buyers to pay 60 to 80 percent of the price of a property, was piloted in Perth and several other areas last year and proved to be a success.

The Revamp Of Crieff's MacRosty Park's Back On Track.

Workers had to down tools recently because of the snow and ice, but weather permitting it should be finished by the middle of March

The multi-million pound project's been funded by cash from the Heritage Lottery Fund and other organisations. Once completed it'll boast new play facilities, improved tennis pavilion, paths and bridges, along with the restoration of features such as the bandstand.

There Was Traffic Chaos In South Perthshire After A Cow Made A Bid For Freedom

Access roads leading to the Keir Roundabout, south of Dunblane were shut yesterday and routes on several main roads were affected after the animal escaped from an abattoir. Cues stretched as far as Stirling.

Perth FM News - 19/01/11

2011-01-19T08:09:00.000-08:00

People In The Perth FM Area Are Being Urged To Keep An Eye Out For Distraction Burglars

It's after a pensioner from St Fillans fell victim to one. The 75 year old from Drummond Lane answered her door to a man asking for water for his car. Whilst she went to get him some, he snuck into her home and stole her handbag which contained £200 in cash

A Programme's Been Launched To Help Improve The Oral Health Of People Living In Care Homes

NHS Tayside's Community Dental Service has been working alongside Care Homes in the area to make sure residents get appropriate care. Tayside Oral Health Award is a local programme adapted from the national Caring for Smiles resource. It will see oral health professionals offer training and support to care home staff throughout Tayside.

Preparations Are Underway For The UK Indoor Tug Of War Championships

The event's being held at the Bells Sports Centre next month. It'll feature home nations Scotland, England, Northern Ireland and Wales, and it's hoped the Channel Islands will also put in an appearance.

Perth FM News - 18/01/11

2011-01-18T08:16:00.000-08:00

Community Police Officers In South Perthshire Are Tweeting On The Beat

The scheme's just been introduced this week.
It's a trial by Tayside police, which is looking into a number of social media options aimed at enhancing local policing and engaging people living in the area.

The three month pilot will see officers in OCH-TER-AR-DER, Crieff and Kinross updating twitter with information on police surgeries, crime prevention advice and much more.

One Of The Country's Most Experienced Mountain Rescuers Is Set To Give A Talk On His Work And New Book At AK Bell Library

John Allen will be speaking next month about how for more than 30 years he's been an active member of the Cairngorm Mountain Rescue Team.

In his novel, which is called "Cairngorm John" he looks back on all the challenges he's seen and been a part of.

St Johnstone Are Looking To Build On Their 1 All Draw With Kilmarnock At The Weekend

They're training hard in preparation for the clash with St Mirren on Saturday.

Derek McInnis has no new injury worries to be concerned about, in fact, several team members are now back on the field

Perth FM News - 17/01/11

2011-01-17T08:26:00.000-08:00

Thawing Snow And Ice And Heavy Rain's Caused Problems Throughout The Perth FM Area This Weekend

Roads were shut, homes flooded and some communities were cut off. Perth & Kinross Council continually worked with Tayside Police and Tayside Fire and Rescue.

An Investigation's Been Launched Following The Death Of A Man Beside Loch Rannoch

He died after the car he was travelling in collided with a tree on the B846 Kinloch Rannoch to Rannoch Station road yesterday evening. Detectives have been examining the scene to try to find out the cause and Tayside Police are asking anyone who saw the black hard-toppped Mazda MX3 travelling in the area.

A New Pharmacy Could Soon Be Opening In Methven

An application to open one on Main Street's been received by Tayside NHS Board. Locals are being asked for their thoughts on the proposal. Anyone wanting to have their say's being urged to submit their suggestions before the 18th of February

Perth FM News 13/01/11

2011-01-14T05:54:00.000-08:00

Police Appeal for Witnesses

Police investigating the road traffic collision on the A9 near Auchterarder last week that resulted in the death of 16 year old Elli Williams have released an image of a vehicle they are keen to trace. The Audi estate was not involved in the collision with Elli, but did pass through the area minutes later. Officers hope that the driver and passengers might have information useful to the enquiry.
Elli, a pupil at Morrison's Academy in Crieff, was found on the southbound carriageway shortly after 10pm on Tuesday, January 4, 2011. She had been hit by a number of vehicles. Anyone who has any information that could assist officers with enquiries should contact Tayside Police on 0300 111 2222,

Dentists Call for Patients

Perth residents are being urged to improve their oral health by registering for care at the new Broxden Dental Centre. The Community Dental Service moved to the site from its previous premises at Drumhar Health Centre last November. From there the service anticipates being able to accommodate 7000 new registrations in its first year and the first patients have already been seen. Places remain available and NHS Tayside is keen to ensure as many people as possible register and Perth residents who are not registered with an NHS dentist can register by calling 450550.

Housing Development Proposal

The Perthshire town of Blarigowrie could be set for a significant expansion after controversial proposals to build almost 100 new houses in the town were backed by senior planning officials. Councillors with be given their say on the blueprint at a meeting next week. If the green light is given, 89 new homes could be constructed on land close to the junction of Woodlands Park and Coupar Angus Road.Dozens of objections have been received from local residents and the community council has also hit out against the plan.

Perth FM News 13/01/11

2011-01-13T07:41:00.000-08:00

Parlimentary Debate on A9

A full debate on the potential upgrade of Scotland's most notorious road will be held next week at the Scottish Parliament. The A9 north of Perth has a reputation as Scotland's deadliest route, with repeated switches from single to dual carriage way identified as a contributory factor in hundreds of incidents. Dualling of the road between Perth and Inverness was a key manifesto pledge for the SNP prior to the party's election victory in 2007. More than three years on, frustrated campaigners and politicians insist the time for words has long since passed.

Local Sausage Roll King

A Pitlochry butcher has been crowned Scotland's 'sausage roll king' after his upper crust entries in the Scotch Pie Club awards wowed hungry judges. Macdonald Brothers Butchers won the top prize in the sausage roll category at the awards and managed to pick up a silver for their steak and gravy pie and a bronze for a ham and haddie quiche. The eight year old firm is not stranger to awards, picking up numerous prestigious prizes for produce in the past. Owner Rory McDonald said "We are absolutely delighted!".

Eagles at Loch Leven

Bird watchers in Kinross have been pleased to report the spotting of a bird of prey at the Loch Leven nature reserve. Since December, visitors have enjoyed the spectacular site of white-tailed sea eagles flying above RSPB Vane Farm. Nicknamed, 'flying barn doors' due to their size, the majestic birds have been fishing in the near by loch. The young birds are part of the East Scotland Sea Eagle release program, a partnership project between RSPB Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage and Forestry Commission Scotland.

Perth FM News 11/01/11

2011-01-11T06:23:00.000-08:00

Man Jailed after Glass Attack

A young man was jailed for 16 months yesterday, after he admitted leaving a stranger scarred for life following a disagreement over pool. Mark Neville objected to being called a "hustler" after winning three games of pool in a row and took out his anger at his opponent by striking the man on the face with a pint glass. His victim was left with a circular scar on his face. In sentencing Neville, Sheriff Michael Fletcher said, "This is the third occasion on which you have been involved in an assault with a weapon. Someone with three convictions such as these cannot expect anything other than a custodial sentence".

SITA Exhibition

Locals can learn about plans to extend the life of a landfill site near Glenfarg as SITA UK holds the first of three public exhibitions of its proposals for Binn Farm in nearby Gateside. If approved, the plans would allow waste from the area to continue to be dumped at the site until June 2018 instead of June 2014. SITA UK has submitted a Proposal of Application Notice to Perth and Kinross council outlining its intention to change the closure date of the Binn Farm Landfill site. Today's exhibition is at the Gateside Memorial hall between 3pm and 7.30 pm and further exhibitions will be held in Glenfarg tomorrow and Abernethy on Thursday.

National Award for Local Company

A Perthshire building company has won a prestigious construction award for transforming a 19th century flax mill into fve star eco friendly luxury holiday accommodation. Crieff-based Corryard Developments Limited has been voted Master Builder of the Year (Scotland) by the Federation of Master Builders for renovating Locherlour Mill, a Grade B listed property on the edge of Ochtertyre Estate, near Crieff. The company, which was established in 2006, is now preparing to compete for the UK title of Master Builder of the Year 2010 at a ceremony in London in March 2010Welcoming the accolade, John Burke, Managing Director of Corryard Developments said, "The Mill conversion has been a truly local project and we, as a local company, are delighted and proud to receive such prestigious recognition for the project".

Perth FM News 10/01/11

2011-01-10T08:44:00.000-08:00

Action on Local Roads

Action has begun in a bid to fix some of Perthshire's weather damaged roads, but locals are being warned some repairs will have to wait until spring. Routes through out the area have been left badly rutted as a result of the recent freeze, with potholes several meters wide being reported in some places. A spokesman for Perth and Kinross council said that the council has a programme for carrying out a survey of road surfaces and that all required road repairs will be loged and carried out on a priority basis. He added that, carrying out repairs in winter conditions does present a challenge.

Proposed Licensed Trade Levy

Local councillors have expressed concerns over Scottish government moves to impose a social responsibility levy on the licensed trade. The community safety committee has been invited to have an input during the consultation stage. It has been agreed that the convener and the clerk of the Perth and Kinross licensing board will also have their say in the response to Hollyrood. Councillors have agreed that while the objectives of the proposals contain the in the Alcohol (Scotland) bill are laudable, implementing the policy may not be straightforward.

Application for Five Star Hotel

Grand plans for a 50 million pound, five star hotel at Kinfauns could finally be resolved by the spring, it has emerged. Applicant JWK Properties is seeking approval of major matters in response to issues that have now been ongoing for almost 7 years. The latest planning submission to the council, seems to indicated that most conditions set have now been met to the approval of concerned parties. Should the application gain full approval it is estimated that the hotel could be open in early 2014.

Perth FM News 07/01/11

2011-01-07T10:29:00.000-08:00

Ordeal for Perthshire Man

A seriously injured walker endured a terrifying four-hour ordeal after he plunged 40 feet down a remote Perthshire ravine yesterday. The man, who was described as being in his 50's, was airlifted to hospital where he was treated for lower leg and spinal injuries. The man had been part of a group of four people on the Meggernie Estate at Glen Lyon, when the accident occurred around lunchtime. His companions quickly raised the alarm and due to the remote nature of his location, resuce crews were lent 4 x 4 vehicles by local firm highland safaris

Golf Course History

Perth has a greater claim to the title of "home of golf" than St Andrews, according to one man who has been battling to maintain the integrity of the towns North Inch Golf Course. Robin Valentine has been a leading light among golfers opposing the siting of a planned pedestrian cycle link between Scone and Perth. Mr Valentine has said many perth people may not realise that the Perth courses' history of golf goes back 500 years.This is one of the reasons why local golfers are so intent on preserving the North Inch golf course

First Click

In partnership with the BBC's 'First Click' learning campaign, beginners' computer classes for adults over 55 will be offered through Community Learning teams in Perth and Kinross, starting in this month. 'First Click' will help to give an introduction to the internet and email, explaining how to use both technologies in a simple, step-by-step way. Classes are available in Perth, in five-week blocks, in the Fairfield Neighbourhood Centre, Perth Grammar Community Wing and North Inch Community Campus.
For further information you can contact The Learning Curve at the A K Bell Library on 477092.

Perth FM News 06/01/11

2011-01-06T09:04:00.000-08:00

A9 Victim Named

A young girl who was tragically killed on the A9 at Auchterarder has been named as Elli Williams. Sixteen year old Miss Williams was hit by a number of cars on Tuesday night, while walking on the southbound dual carriage way that runs alongside the town. Emergency services raced to the scene shortly after 10pm but the Morrisons Academy pupil was pronounced dead on arrival. A close friend described her as a bubbly girl and said that he was completely devastated by her death.

Call for Parking Charge Suspension

Parking charges should be suspended this month in an attempt to tempt shoppers out onto the high street, and MSP has claimed. Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser has spoken our after heavy snow and freezing temperatures provided a further challenge to beleaguered retailers in the approach to Christmas. Mr Fraser insists his proposal could help to lift the doom and gloom with Scotland still in the grip of a global economic downturn.

Big Chill for Perthshire Businesses

Following a harsh winter, the President of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, Paul Shields, predicts a big chill factor for many businesses across the area in the New Year. Mr Shields highlighted that this month VAT increase will be the first thing to hit consumers, as firms battle to stay on top of ongoing economic difficulties.
The Chamber of Commerce has spent the last few weeks working with frustrated business operators as the weather has seen a massive rise in cancelled appointments and reservations, crippling the cash flow of those affected. Mr Shields also revealed that some businesses have had to stand by helplessly, as they have watched strong order books literally vanish.

Perth FM News 05/01/11

2011-01-05T05:13:00.000-08:00

Fatal Accident at Auchterarder

Last night saw another fatal accident on the A9 near Auchterarder. The A9 at Auchterarder is currently closed in both directions and all traffic is being diverted. Many motorists are experiencing delays, and locals have already called for flyovers to be built on this particular stretch of road.

South Street Closure

One of Perth’s busiest streets was closed for a time yesterday evening.A member of the public contacted the emergency services, after a heavy roof slate fell from a South Street property. Two fire appliances attended the scence shortly before 4.15pm, along with local police. Fire Crews used an aerial ladder to examine the building, while the police cordoned off the area.

Police Witness Appeal

Perth Police have launched a fresh appeal for witnesses, nearly two weeks after a woman was mugged while getting into her car outside Morrison supermarket on Caledonian road. A man, who was described as being in his mid 20s, entered the woman’s black Saab on December 22 at around 6.40pm, via the passenger door brandishing a large knife and took her mobile phone. Police are eager to speak to a man who parked an expensive looking, silver 4x4 or pick up type vehicle in the car park at around the same time as the robbery took place, as they believe he may have information that may assist the investigation.

Perth FM News 24/12/10

2010-12-24T06:32:00.001-08:00

Connect2 in doubt

The Connect2 foot and cycle bridge project has been dealt a potentially devastating blow. Perth and Kinross council revealed yesterday that one of the strategic landowners has advised that they wish to withdraw their support for the project, as they no longer want the bridge to cross their land. Council Leader Ian Miller spoke to Perth FM.

Flash Flood in City Centre

Devastated shop owners fought a desperate battle against rising water yesterday, after a dramatic flash flood forced the closure of Perth's New Row.A cordon was quickly thrown up around the street on the fringes of the town centre after the water began to accumulate at around two pm. The water was around two to three feet deep in places and representatives of Tayside Fire and Resuce quickly joined police officers at the scene. The water continued to flow for about an hour until the pipe responsible was identified and isolated.

Holiday Closures

Most Perth and Kinross council offices will close for the festive holidays today at three pm and will not reopen until Wednesday January fifth. Residents can contact their local office directly to find out about their own arrangements.Information on council services and opening hours over the holiday period can also be found on the councils website.

Perth FM News 23/12/10

2010-12-23T08:15:00.000-08:00

Fatal Traffic Accident on A9

In the early hours of this morning the A9 has claimed yet another life.
Three heavy goods vehicles were involved in a collision this morning on the A9, 1 mile north of Dunkeld. The 57 year old driver of one of the vehicles has died, while a 23 male is in a critical condition at Ninewells hospital. The driver of the 3rd vehicle was unharmed. The collision has led to the A9 being closed in both directions for several hours.

Robbery at LocaL Supermarket

Perth police are appealing for witnesses to a robbery yesterday evening, in the car park of Morrison car park in Perth. At around 1840 hours yesterday, the victim had just got into her black coloured Saab motorcar when a male suspect also entered via the passenger door. The victim managed to escape and reported the incident. Tayside Police are increasing patrols in the area. The male suspect is described as mid 20s, slim build, about 5' 7" tall wearing a white coloured hoodie, hat and checked scarf.

Impact on Rural Communities

Councillor Alexander Stewart has expressed concerns for the uncertain economic future for rural communities throughout Perth and Kinross. The recent snowfall and plummeting temperatures are contributing to what has been a testing time for local towns and villages in the area. The town regeneration funds which were made available this year by the Scottish government have boosted and supported many local communities.This funding is, however, temporary and Councillor Stewart is concerned as to how rural communities will fair in the longer term.

Perth FM News 22/12/10

2010-12-22T08:42:00.000-08:00

LPG Concerns

Families throughout Perthshire are facing a Christmas without any heating as temperatures show no signs of rising. Some properties are experiencing problems with their LPG despite orders being placed in some cases more than 3 weeks ago.
Several families have looked at trying to have fuel delivered by other suppliers but have been told that this would put them in breach of contract.As calls to some suppliers are increasing, levels of customer service seem to be decreasing with calls and emails not receiving any response.

Counterfeit Notes

Tayside Police is urgently appealing to retailers, businesses and members of the public to be on the guard against the use of counterfeit money. The force has received calls from shop keepers and staff over the past few days, that a range of counterfeit notes are being offered up as legal tender. Reports indicate that the forged notes are of various denominations and from various banking origins.
Officers are urging everyone in the Tayside community to be vigilant to contact the police if they receive a note they suspect to be counterfeit.

Annual Writing Prize

Perthshire wordsmiths are being urged to put pen to paper, or fingers to keyboard, and enter their poems for the annual William Soutar Writing Prize. The competition, which awards poets and short story writers in alternate years, is run by Perth and Kinross Council's Library service in memory of Perth's most famous poet. Anyone over the age of 16, writing in English or Scots anywhere in the world, is eligible to enter. The first prize is a week's writing course at one of the prestigious Arvon writers' centres, worth around six hundred pounds.

Perth FM News 21/12/10

2010-12-21T08:36:00.000-08:00

Perth Girl Young Song Writer of the Year

Perth Girl Stella Reilly has won The Young Song Writer of the Year Competition 2010.
Stella was one of four finalists who was chosen by judges to travel to Mark Knofflers studios in London to record her song with professional musicians and producers. Stellas' song, It's me it's you was available to down load with the other finalists, with the fees going to help Barnados. It's me its you was announced yesterday as being the track that received the most public downloads.

Increase in Emergency Calls Expected

Tayside Fire and Rescue are preparing themselves for another significant increase in emergency calls requesting their services with the onset of the latest severe weather to hit Scotland. They're asking the public to ensure they are also 'staying prepared' with prevention being the key to this. At some point these freezing conditions will be followed by a thaw which could see a return of the wide spread reports of burst pipes within homes and businesses. To reduce the impact of this householders and business owners are being urged to find out the location of their stop valve in advance so that they can promptly turn the water supply off should a burst pipe occur. If a pipe has burst then you should contact a registered plumber.

Community Council Changes

For a period of eight weeks, starting yesterday, Perth & Kinross Council will be seeking residents' views on proposed amendments to the arrangements for establishing Community Councils. This follows the Council's decision on 15th December 2010 to undertake public consultation on the changes being considered. The proposed amendments will be available to view at a number of locations throughout Perth and Kinross. The information will also be available on the Council website

Perth FM News 20/12/10

2010-12-20T08:39:00.000-08:00

Big Lottery Funding

The Blair in Bloom, group has secured a significant cash award from the Big Lottery Funds Awards for All Schemes. The grant will enable members to carry out a series of environmental improvements in a bid to enhance the attractiveness of Blairgowrie and Rattray.Each year many hours of planning and hard work go into making the area a better place to live and visit. Boosting those efforts, the grant of seven and a half thousand pounds will contribute to turf lifting and the purchase and planting of bulbs.

Public Consultation on Alcohol

A public consultation on the provision of alcohol in pavement cafes is to be carried out by Perth and Kinross Licensing Board. The consultation follows an experimental period when alcohol was allowed to be sold and consumed in licensed outdoor pavement cafes on its own. The process is part of a Perth and Kinross Licensing Board review of its policy on the provision of alcohol in pavement cafes. The Board is now consulting upon either making that experiment permanent or retaining the original policy.

Journey to Excellence for Perth Primary

Staff, parents and pupils at Viewlands primary school have chosen a new school motto.
A new working group was formed to look at moving education forward at the school and to help them on their journey to excellence.A competition was launched for pupils to come up with an original and exciting idea for a school motto. Ben Jackson of P6 was the winner with his motto Grow through learning.

Perthfm News 17/12/10

2010-12-17T07:43:00.000-08:00

Derby game postponed

Tomorrow's local derby between Saints and Dundee united has been postponed.
While the playing surface at McDiarmid Park would have been in good condition for the match local police and the spl share concerns about the weather at the weekend.
Particular consideration has been given to the expected very low temperatures and a Met Office weather forecast which indicates snowfall in Perth on Saturday morning.
The temperatures expected are so low as to make salting ineffective and it has been deemed that the most responsible course of action should be to make an early decision to postpone the match.

Golfers determind to have their say

Local golfers have claimed that the decision to build a footbridge over the River Tay will destroy one of Scotland's historic golf courses. The North Inch golf course's 15 clubs have come together to continue the fight against the position of the Connect2 Bridge. Planning permission will be sought next month for the bridge and should it be granted building work is expected to begin next November.
However, North Inch Users Group members insist the project is being pushed through against their wishes and with no consultation.

Plans to reduce polling day closures

In the past more than a dozen local schools have routinely been close on election days, a situation described as "very far from ideal".
However, the proposals had lead to some residents in more remote areas to claim they were disenfranchised as they could now face round trips of more than 20 miles to cast their vote. The plans were voted through by 29 votes to three.

Perth FM News 16/12/10

2010-12-16T08:03:00.000-08:00

Police Appeal

Perth police are investigating after a young man exposed himself to a group of pupils at Craigie Primary School. The incident happened when the man was walking down Abbot Street with an other man on Tuesday between 2.30 and 2.40 pm.
The culprit is described as being between 15 to 20 years old , 5ft 9, of medium build with thick brown hair. He was wearing a light blue zip top and dark baggy trousers. Anyone with any information should contact Perth police.

Tay Footbridge

The green light has been give to the plans for the Tay footbridge on the north inch.
Despite passionate pleas from several councillors to defer the decision for several weeks, members of the common good fund committee voted eight to five in favour of approving the report. Councillors had expressed concerns that there was a need for a much wider consultation and asked for a delay of 8 weeks for further consultation.
This request was rejected.

Young Songwriter

Sixteen year old Perth girl Stella Reilly is one of four finalists in this year's young songwriter of the year. The public have until Friday to download their favourite song and the song with the most downloads will win the contest.
Stella told Perthfm how to go about downloading her entry.

Perth FM News

2010-12-15T09:31:00.000-08:00

Costs of snow clearing

Council Chiefs in Perth and Kinross have agreed additional spending of up to thirty thousand pounds a day in a bid to keep the areas snow and ice covered roads clear.
They have had to admit, however, that this situation is not sustainable and that some minor routes may not be treated at all.With further snow set to bring fresh chaos to Scotland, Perth and Kinross council is struggling to keep some parts of the region moving. At times private contractors have been engaged in snow and ice clearing as well as gritting alongside council staff.

Telephone Scam

Perth & Kinross Council's Trading Standards are advising residents of a telephone scam asking for a fee to set up the TPS.
The Telephone Preference Scheme is an opt out register for anyone who does not want to receive unsolicited sales and marketing calls. Registering with TPS Service is free and they will not call you and ask you to subscribe. Anyone receiving a call should contact local trading standards.

Morale in a box

Morale in a box is currently taking place in the Tesco Extra on Crieff Road.
Shoppers are being asked to donate none perishable items to be sent out to our troops on the front line. Robert Handy, Group Customer Services Manager, spoke to Perthfm.

Perth FM News 14/12/10

2010-12-14T08:45:00.000-08:00

Bid for City Status

The closing date for Perth's City status bid has been set for may 27th.
Guide line for the entries have been drawn up and the Queen and a team of key political advisors will decide which settlement is to be bestowed with city status as part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012.Perth and Kinross council have advised that a steering group will be establish to progress Perth's entry.

A977 Concerns

Terrified Perthshire villagers are again demanding action to stop hundreds of lorries roaring along their narrow road. Residents of Balado and Crook of Devon have seen a significant increase in traffic along the A977 since the opening of the Clackmannanshire Bridge at Kincardine. An estimated one million pounds is need to bring the road up to the standard being sought by local residents but their petition to the Scottish government has been dismissed as a council matter.
Local MSP Liz Smith has written to Perth and Kinross Council for an update regarding the situation.

Saints hopes for Saturday

Saints are looking forward to their home game this weekend against Dundee United.
Their main hope is that the weather will hold as confidence is currently running high. Boss Derek McInnes spoke to Perthfm

Perth FM News 13/12/10

2010-12-13T08:47:00.000-08:00

Council Savings

Savings of over 20 million pounds will still have to be made by Perth and Kinross council over the next 3 years. This is despite a better than expected settlement from the Scottish Government that was unveiled last week. Before the announcement last week, it had been feared a massive 38 million pounds would have to be sheared off the council budget. The figure has been tentatively revised downward to a still sizeable but more manageable 22 million pounds.

Friarton Hall

A mothballed perth prison should be reopened so more criminals can be locked up, according to a Perthshire MSP. Friarton Hall, which housed young offenders was shut in March of this year becaused it was poorly used and its facilities were deemed to be inadequate. MSP Murdo Fraser wanst to see it brought back into the prison estate to ease the overwhelmed system. He raised the issue in parliament last week and was told the future of Friarton hall is under consideration.

Three Points for Saints

Saints came home from St Mirren on Saturday with a well deserved 3 points.
Despite the threat of an other cold spell the team are still training hard.
Boss Derek McInnes spoke to Perthfm

Perth FM News 10/12/10

2010-12-10T09:40:00.000-08:00

Reduction in Evictions

Evictions in Perth and Kinross have reduced by 40 percent in the last year according to new analysis by Shelter Scotland. In total, there were 6 evictions during 2009 to2010. Over the last three years, since Shelter Scotland started publishing its annual analysis of the figures, evictions in Perth and Kinross have reduced by 40 percent. Gordon McCrae Head of Communication and Policy for Shelter Scotland spoke to Perthfm.

Email Scam

Perthshire residents are being warned of an email scan after a Perth woman's email account was hacked while she was on holiday in America. A hoax email was send from her account claiming she had been robbed and required financial assistance from friends and family to get home. It went as far to say that the authorites where not being supportive and that she was in a distressed state.
A spokeswoman for Tayside police said, "It's important that before you respond to any email like this that you check the authenticity an validity of the claims being made."

Refuse Bags

Perth and Kinross Council is currently collecting only green lidded bins, general waste, from residents and businesses. This arrangement has now been extended to Sunday 19 December to allow as much waste to be collected as possible before the festive arrangements begin. Residents and businesses should not present their blue and brown lidded bins during this time as they will not be collected.
In addition, the Council will collect bagged waste during this period. This move is aimed at helping residents to take their waste to a suitable collection point when it is not possible to put out their green lidded bin.

Perthfm News 09/12/10

2010-12-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

Pitlochry Store Given Green Light

Councillors have agreed that building a supermarket in Pitlochry would turn the town into the 'hub' of highland Perthshire. The application, lodged by Sainsburys for 15,000 sqf store and 187 space car park on bridge road, was unanimously approved.
The retailer hopes to provide the local economy with between 150 and 200 part and full time jobs and to source dairy and meat products from local producers.

Ice Breaker

The cold weather has seen a desperado criminal logged a large block of ice at a parked car's window to gain entry to steal a cd player and some loose change.
While most petty criminals seem to be taking a break in the face of extreme weather conditions, the thief who smashed a VW people carrier in Perth's Appin Terrace at the weekend used the frozen deposits to their advantage. Anyone who has any information regarding the theft of the Sony cd play should contact Tayside police or crime stoppers

Appeal for Winter Woollies

Staff at Barnado's shops in Perth and Kinross are filling their rails with winter woollies and are appealing for more donations at the same time. Stocks of jumpers and coats are flying off the rails as the arctic weather continues. The charity's Area Business Manager Viv Miller said, "we really need people to look in their wardrobes and dig out any good quality coats, jumpers and boots, any winter warmers they haven't worn for a while and bring them down to their local store. Not only does the money raised from the sale of these items fund our work with disadvantaged children and families in the area, but our shops offer local families the opportunity to buy vital clothes at an affordable price.

Perthfm News 08/12/10

2010-12-08T11:20:00.002-08:00

New treatment for heart disease

Today the European Medicines Agency has authorised the first in a new class of antiplatelet medicine, ticagrelor, for adult heart attack and unstable angina patients. Last year there were approximately 162,000 hospital admissions for heart attacks and angina, which cost the NHS 1.3 billion pounds. The new breakthrough medication, available to UK sufferers, could see the mortality rate after a heart attack drop from the current 15 percent. Dr Sarah Jarvis, a GP who specialises in cardiovascular medicine. Spoke to Perthfm

Quit4u in Perth

Shoppers in Perth were given the opportunity to sign up to NHS Tayside’s quit4u scheme yesterday at an event held in ASDA Dunkeld Road.
Smokers were invited to take a break from their shopping to hear about the smoking cessation scheme and to find out if they were eligible to join.
Members of NHS Tayside’s Smoke Free Services, along with Big Cig, were on hand to give out information about quit4u and other support available, including stop smoking groups and pharmacy support. Eligible potential quitters were also able to sign up for the scheme and take the first step towards kicking the habit.
There is an estimated 23,000 adult smokers in Perth & Kinross, 22% of the region’s population.

Dig it Dish it

Inspired by their time spent digging and learning at the Cultybraggan allotments, Comrie Primary’s P6 P7 class have created a seasonal cookbook called Dig It! Dish It!. The 42 recipes are sorted by season so it is easy to find recipes to use what is growing locally at the time. The children also helped to design the book which is priced at 6 pounds and the class will be selling it at the Crieff Christmas Market in James Square, this Saturday All proceeds from the sale of the book are going to help build the new 'Green Leaf' community outdoor classroom due to be completed by September 2011.

Perthfm News 07/12/10

2010-12-07T10:05:00.000-08:00

Local road assessment

The impact of the severe weather on roads and footways across Perth and Kinross will be assessed once conditions improve the council have said. Work was nearly complete on the damage caused during last winter,the worst for 30 years, when the big freeze struck. A spokesperson for the council said we will assess in due course when the conditions improve, what, if any, damage has been caused as a result of the winter weather and prioritise any repairs required.

Festive Road Safety Campaign

Tayside Police, along with all seven other Scottish forces, yesterday launched this year's Festive Road Safety Campaign. The four week campaign will predominantly focus on tackling drink and drug drivers, with officers seeking to remove irresponsible drivers from the road and place them before the courts and the earliest opportunity.
This year's campaign will also see officers enforce the Vehicle Forfeiture Initiative where courts can order the seizure and forfeiture of a drink driver's vehicle when they have had a previous conviction within the last 5 years for a drink or drug driving related offence or have a similar case pending.

Refuse Collections

The council has been making efforts for green lidded bin collections to carry on this week but the unexpected snowfall on Monday means that some properties were not reached yesterday.Every effort is being made to collect as much refuse and get to as many areas as possible, but the Council also needs the public's support in this by giving collection crews and their vehicles plenty of room to manoeuvre while they are out working, and by being prepared for frequent stops as they pick up bins.

Perthfm News 05/12/10

2010-12-06T08:33:00.000-08:00

Postal Dates

Despite the poor weather conditions and the challenges facing the Royal Mail, they are keen to remind us of the need to post our Christmas mail early. The last dates for posting are already looming with today being the last date for posting to friends and family in Australia, New Zealand, Africa, Central America, the Middle and Far East and Asia. Ian McKay, Royal Mails Director of Scottish affairs spoke to Perth fm.

SITA Application

Plans to extend the life of a controversial Perthshire landfill site have been submitted. SITA UK, which operates the Binn Farm landfill near Perth, has submitted a proposal of application notice to Perth and Kinross Council. It outlines its proposal to change the closure date of the landfill. Present regulations would see the tipping stop in June 2014 but SITA has applied to continue for a further four years, to June 2018.

Support for the Elderly

Perth and Kinross council has been taking special steps to ensure elderly and vulnerable residents receive the support they need in the severe weather. It has deployed six 4 x 4 vehicles with drivers to help care staff reach service users in rural areas. The community meals service provider also delivered a two week supply of meals earlier this week to all residents who receive this service. Additionally they have had a very positive response to an appeal to staff with 4 x 4 vehicles to volunteer their services.

Perthfm News 03/12/10

2010-12-03T09:38:00.000-08:00

Council Late Night Working

Perth and Kinross Council have advised that they and Tayside Contracts staff continue to work around the clock to clear the area's roads and pathways of snow and ice. Staff, some of whom have been deployed from their normal duties, have been working up until midnight in recent nights to clear as many paths and footways as they can, and weather permitting, this will continue. Up to 40 diggers and 200 staff are available to the Council in the clear-up operation. It is still hoped that snowfall will become less frequent over the next few days, allowing more non priority routes to be cleared.

Village Internet Protest

Desperate campaigners in the picturesque village of Muthill have turned to Youtube, as they fight proposals for the hugely controversial Beauly to Denny power line.
Locals of the Strathearn village have posted a 6 minute video on the sight outlining their opposition to the pylons, as they were previously led to believe their section of the line would be buried underground to mitigate any effect on the conservation area. They are urging Internet users to protest to the energy minister Jim Mather.
A spokesman for Muthill and Tullibardine Community council said locals lack funds to mount any kind of legal challenge against the proposals, and this has led to their aim to raise awareness of the situation over the Internet.

Saints still Training

Although this weekends Saints match against Hamilton Accies has been postponed, the players aren't being allowed to put their feet up. Boss Derek McInnes spoke to Perthfm about the current training regime.

Perthfm News 02/12/10

2010-12-02T08:09:00.000-08:00

Drink Driver Banned and Fined

A local woman who was found to be three times over the drink drive limit was fined £800 and disqualified for 24 months at Perth Sheriff court yesterday. Susan Dodd of Auchterarder was involved in a road accident on November 2nd in Perth’s Glasgow Road and was found to have driven her car with excess alcohol. Sheriff William Summers said this was a serious incident with had been exacerbated by being involved in an accident.

Abandoned Car Appeal

Tayside police are urging motorists who have abandoned their vehicles on snow-covered roads to collect them as soon as possible. A number of vehicles have been abandoned in the severe weather, some of which are causing obstruction and are hampering attempts to make roads safe and passable. Abandoned cars that are sticking out too far in the street are making snow ploughing difficult in some areas and in some cases making ploughing impossible.Until these are removed local authorities cannot ensure the roads are properly ploughed and gritted and made safe for all road users.

Weather sees Football Postponed

Saturday's match against Hamilton Academical, along with all other SPL fixtures this weekend, has been postponed. In a statement the Scottish Premier League has said: “In light of the severe weather conditions across Scotland, which are forecast to continue for some time, all Clydesdale Bank Premier League games have been postponed on Saturday 4 December. Saints boss Derek McInnes spoke to perthfm at about the decision

Perthfm News 01/12/10

2010-12-01T08:59:00.000-08:00

House Fire at St Fillans

Tayside Fire and Rescue attended a house fire this morning at St Fillans, despite the poor weather conditions. Four appliances were dispatched and although there was extensive damage to the property no one was hurt. Fraser Scott, Station Manager at Perth Fire Station spoke to Perthfm.

Weather Conditions

After 3 days of snowfall and no signs of the weather improving, Perthfm spoke to the people of Perth to find out how they felt about the poor weather conditions and the state of the local roads.

McDiarmid Snow Disruption

With Saturday’s home match against Hamilton Accies hanging by a thread, a further four inches of snow fell overnight at Mcdiarmid Park leaving the pitch and car parks with over twelve inches of snow. Officials at Saints are in dialogue with the Scottish Premier League in an effort to make a decision on the fixture as early as possible. Keen to ensure that training does not suffer Derek McInnes today arranged for the players to attend one of four training centres in Glasgow, Dundee, Stirling and Edinburgh. The squad is due to get together tomorrow at the indoor centre at Toryglen in Glasgow but with yet more snow forecast this is weather dependent.

Perthfm News 30/11/10

2010-11-30T09:21:00.000-08:00

Perth Cut Off by Snow

Last night saw more snow fall and road closures.
The M90 south of perth was closed for several hours due to vehicles being stuck in snow and an other vehicle catching fire. The A9 was closed to traffic north and southbound between Broxden roundabout in Perth and Keir roundabout at Dunblane.
It is appreciated that delays were caused, however Tayside Police would like to thank all drivers for their patience whilst the problems were resolved

Perthshire Memories

Perthshire residents will be able to take a stroll down memory lane at the AK Bell Library later on this week. Old photographs, music, soundbites and other memorabilia will be on show at Perthshire memories which will run from Friday until the end of December.The exhibition is supported by Perth and Kinross Council, the Gannochy Trust and Hertitage lottery funds.

Perth Eatery Short-listed

Perth eatery 63 Tay Street has been short listed in the 2011 Scottish Restaurant of the year awards. It is one of three finalists in the urban restaurant category. Judges will visit the finalists anonymously and rate them against a set list of criteria.The results will be announced in February of next year.

Perthfm News 29/11/10

2010-11-29T04:57:00.000-08:00

Lightning Strikes Perthshire Home

Yesterday's rare weather phenomenon, thunder snow, took out Tayside polices non emergency telephone line and severely damaged a house at Guildtown. The couple who live in the property had a lucky escape as they had been at a friends house around about mid day when the lightening struck. The force of the direct hit caused significant structural damage and blew the electricity supply and the phone line.
Despite the poor conditions, Perth Fire Fighters attended immediately and were able to secure the building.

Motorist Drop In Centre

Many motorists travelling on the A9, M90 and A90 were left stranded when police eventually had to close roads yesterday evening due to the bad weather. Perth and Kinross Council had planned for such an eventuality and opened a drop in centre at the North Inch Community Campus. At it's peak the centre gave shelter to 669 motorists, providing them with hot drinks and snacks. The local ambulance service supplied blankets. Councillor Ian Miller spoke to Perthfm.

Stay Safe Advice

With the bad weather upon us, Perth and Kinross residents are being urged to do all they can to stay safe at this time. There are a number of simple steps that can be taken to ensure that you and your family keep warm and safe when severe weather strikes. Make sure you know how to turn off your water at source should pipes burst by identifying where the stopcock is in your house. This cuts the main water supply to your property. Leaving your heating on a low setting overnight will help to prevent you pipes from freezing.

Perthfm News 26/11/10

2010-11-26T09:19:00.000-08:00

Anti-Violence Campaign

A high profile poster and postcard campaign aimed at ending violence towards woman has been launched. The initiative will see Tayside Police, the Woman's Rape and sexual abuse centre and Perth and Kinross Community Partnership work together to highlight the issue. The message featured on the posters and postcards is "drinking is not a crime, rape is". Chief Superintendent Craig Suttie said they hoped to give a "clear, unambiguous message that while drinking is not a crime, sexual abuse is."

Free Bus to avoid Traffic Chaos

Tonight sees Perth Light Night take place and families are being urged to leave the car at home and take the bus to avoid traffic chaos. Tens of thousands of people are expected to descend on the city centre tonight to take in the light show and firework display and parking spaces will definitely be few and far between.
A free bus service is being put on to help, it will run from Broxden Park through to Mill Street all evening. The event, which will see many of the city's landmarks lit up, marks an end to the Perth 800 celebrations

Network of Co-operation

Those living in the more remote corners of Highland Perthshire are trying to cut costs. They’ve started a "network of co-operation" to try and reduce the high price of rural living. A report by the Commission for Rural Communities has highlighted how expensive rural living can be compared to urban dwelling, sometimes as much as 20% more. However, the research also found communities have taken practical steps, which have slashed their expenses and brought neighbours closer together.For example, ordering items together online instead of doing a 40 mile round trip is just one of the ways.

Perthfm News 25/11/10

2010-11-25T06:59:00.000-08:00

Connect2 Bridge

The preferred design for the Connect2 Bridge has been approved. Earlier this year 700 locals were asked which structure out of two they would prefer to go over the River Tay. The majority voted in favour of a three arch design as oppose to a flat bridge.

More Jobs

Hundreds of jobs could be coming to Perth if a multi-million pound project gets the go-ahead. Plans to revamp St Catherine's Retail Park Have Been Unveiled. Proposals Have already been sent to the council and its thought a larger planning application will be submitted in the new year.

Robbery

Detectives are investigating a robbery at a building site in Perth. It's thought around 180 pounds worth of electrical cable was stolen from the property on Ainslie Terrace. Police are urging those who noticed anything happening between Tuesday evening and yesterday morning to come forward.

Best Bar None

Bars, Restaurants, Pubs and Clubs in Perth have been recognised for their good work. It's as the winners of this year's Best Bar None Awards are announced. Almost twenty premises received gold, silver or bronze accolades for their safety policy and professional management. The scheme aims to make sure the city centre is a fun and safe place to be.

Lightnight Weekend

A display of fireworks is to be launched from the River Tay, to get the city's Lightnight weekend underway. The festivities are the grand finale to the Perth 800 celebrations. A host of landmarks are also expected to by lit up to mark the occasion. It starts at 9pm and the show will go on for half hour altogether so make sure you wrap up warm.

Perthfm News 24/11/10

2010-11-24T03:46:00.000-08:00

Cittaslow International Event

This weekend Perth will welcome guests from fellow Cittaslow towns across the world and the rest of the UK. Perth is Scotland’s first Cittaslow city will host the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Cittaslow UK and a meeting of the Cittaslow International Coordinating Committee. The Cittaslow UK AGM will attract delegates from other Cittaslow towns in England, Scotland and Wales, while the International Coordinating Committee meeting will welcome delegates from 9 countries stretching from USA to South Korea.While they are in Perth, Cittaslow guests will join in the Perth 800 celebrations by visiting the medieval Andermass Market and Perth Lightnight celebrations, as well as local amenities such as Friarton Civic Amenity Site.

Digital Advice

Perth and Kinross Council's Trading Standards is ready to give advice to anybody thinking of buying new digital TV equipment in the run-up to Christmas. With Christmas approaching, as well as an impending VAT rise, many people will be thinking of buying a new TV or upgrading their digital box to one which is able to record as well as receive digital TV services. To ensure that people in Perth and Kinross have information available to them to make the right choice of equipment and digital service the Council’s Trading Standards Service has produced a leaflet explaining issues around the digital switchover and what equipment is available.
The leaflet is available for download from the Trading Standards page of Perth & Kinross Council website, or by phoning 476476 and asking for Trading Standards.

'A' Frame Boards

The issue of advertising 'A-frame' boards that are placed in shopping streets by businesses will be debated by the Enterprise and Infrastructure Committee today.
Members will be asked to approve a number of conditions for the use of A-frame boards in a bid to balance the access needs of disabled people and other pedestrians with the desire of local businesses to use this method of advertising. Members will now hear that a consultation was carried out earlier this year on the issue of A-frames following the submission of a petition by Perth and Kinross Access Group, asking that they be banned. However, the results of the consultation were inconclusive as to whether A-frames should be banned or not.The Committee will therefore be asked to approve an updated set of guidelines.

Perthfm News 23/11/10

2010-11-23T08:47:00.000-08:00

Dental Treatment Centre Opens to Public

NHS Tayside's Integrated Dental Treatment and Training Centre at Broxden Business Park in Perth will see it's first patients today as the Community Dental Service moved to the new site from its premises at Drumhar Health Centre. All clinical services, other than emergency weekend clinics, were transferred to the new centre today. The Emergency Dental Service will run at Drumhar Health Centre on the weekend of 27/28 November before transferring to Broxden and patients requiring emergency care out of hours should continue to contact NHS24 on 08454 24 24 24 as normal.
Those who are not registered with an NHS dentist can arrange for NHS dental care at Broxden by calling 01738 450550.

Copy-Cat website warning

Perth and Kinross Councils Trading Standards is warning residents to be on the look-out for "copy-cat" websites when shopping online this Christmas. In December 2009 over 1,200 web sites were closed down by experts at Scotland Yards e-crime unit because they were trading fraudulently, most of these web sites were run from Asia but with a British domain name. When consumers purchased goods from these web sites they either did not receive any goods or the goods they did receive were counterfeit. At the time online experts warned that these web sites could be back up and running within hours. Community Safety Convener, Councillor Willie Robertson, said: "Many of these were 'copy-cat' web sites - copies of high street stores. These sites have a domain name very similar to legitimate web sites with perhaps a slight spelling mistake, but are scam web sites. These web sites seem to be even more prolific this year therefore we want to urge people to be on their guard when shopping online."

Grouse in residence at Broxden

The weekend saw Perth's latest land mark arrive. The 50 foot tall grouse is positioned on a plinth and looks as if it is taking flight from the trees on the Broxden round about. The statue was has been gifted to Perth by the Edrington Group and was commissioned as part of the Perth 800 celebrations. Gerry O'Donnell, director of The Famous Grouse at the Edrington Group said, "We are very proud of our Perth roots, and we hope people agree that this creates a truly spectacular gateway to Perthshire and the Highlands of Scotland."

Perthfm News 22/11/10

2010-11-22T08:34:00.000-08:00

Perth Man in Mine Explosion

The Scottish National Party's Perth parliamentarians, Mr Pete Wishart MP, Member of Parliament for Perth & North Perthshire and Ms Roseanna Cunningham MSP, Member of the Scottish Parliament for the Perth constituency, have expressed their concern for the safety of Mr Pete Rodgers, originally from Perth, one of the miners involved in the New Zealand mine explosion. Speaking today Ms Cunningham said: "I was shocked to learn that one of the miners trapped in the New Zealand mine explosion was from Perth. News like that brings an incident on the other side of the world right onto your own doorstep. My prayers are with Mr Rodgers and his friends and family at this very anxious time."

Council Employees 40% Salary Increase

It would appear that, despite the recession, Perth and Kinross Council parking attendants had benefited from an amazing 40% salary increase. Figures obtained show that the publicly-funded wage bill for the local authoritys 16 attendants has risen from just under £184 thousand in 2007/08 to just over £257 thousand in 2009/10.
The amount of income generated from parking over the same period has fallen by almost £100,000. This reduction in revenue means that for the first time in 3 years it has cost more to employ the parking attendants than they have collected.

Bridge Design Approval

The preferred design for the Connect2 Bridge over the River Tay will be approved by a meeting of the Enterprise and Infrastructure Committee this Wednesday. The Sustrans Connect2 project will include a new pedestrian and cycle bridge across the River Tay as well as improvements to a range of footpaths and cycleways throughout the Perth area, linking them to the bridge. Earlier this year members of the public were asked to vote on two different designs for the bridge - a three arch design or a flat bridge. The results show that the three-arch design was preferred by the majority of the 700 people who responded, and members of the Committee will be asked to approve that choice.

Perthfm News 19/11/10

2010-11-19T07:29:00.000-08:00

Mountain Rescue National Conference

This weekend will see Aberfeldy host mountain rescue teams and partner agencies from across Scotland as they attend the Mountain Rescue Committee of Scotland’s national conference sponsored by the Order of St John. This is the first time that the conference has been held in the Perthshire area, with the theme this year focussing on partnership working. Workshops will include Tayside Fire and Rescue, Tayside Police Search and Rescue Unit and local civilian volunteers from Tayside Mountain Rescue Team demonstrating how they can work together and enhance their collective strengths. Superintendent David Tonks, Co-ordinator for Mountain Rescue in Tayside, said, "I am pleased to see this conference coming to Tayside. The local rescue services including Fire, Police and civilian volunteers from Tayside Mountain Rescue Team work well together, which makes it an excellent opportunity to demonstrate how this combination can be very effective".

Dementia Drop-ins

Residents of Strathmore are being invited to come along to drop-in information sessions to learn more about a new local service for people living with dementia and their families. The new service which, has been developed by NHS Tayside in association with Perth & Kinross Council, will see locally based integrated, multi-disciplinary teams providing a single point of contact for Strathmore residents who need to access services, reducing the need for inappropriate admission to hospitals or care homes. A series of drop-in sessions are currently underway where staff from the Strathmore Dementia Services will be on hand to chat to local people about the improvements. The remaining sessions will take place at Kinloch Hall, Meigle on Monday, 22 November from 1.30 - 3pm, and at Guildtown Village Hall on Tuesday, 23 November from 1.30 - 3pm.

Care Village Propsal

Detailed plans to convert Perth's former Station Hotel into a "five-star care village" have been place with the local authority planning department.
The current owners, Supportico, have ambitious plans for the building, which include housing, and services for the elderly and a "centre of excellence" for retirement care. The hotel's ballroom and conference rooms would be preserved and would hose activities such as concerts, tea dances, arts and painting. The landscaped gardens would also be retained as the developers feel this is a unique feature for a town centre facility.

Perthfm News 18/11/10

2010-11-18T04:48:00.000-08:00

Closing Date Near for Public Consultation

Perth & Kinross residents are reminded that they have until Friday 26 November to have their say on the future provision of Council services. The Council faces major financial challenges as a result of national budget cuts. Work has been ongoing for many months to explore options, which will help find savings of around £38 million in the next 4 years. Savings outlined in a report to full Council on Thursday 4 November amount to £9.4 million. A report on further savings required will go before a Special meeting of Council on Budget Day in February 2011. To inform the decision-making process and to ensure that residents have the opportunity to air their opinions on what they see as priorities in terms of service provision, the Council has launched a range of public consultation and engagement activities. All residents have been invited to have their say by completing an online questionnaire available on the Council website at www.pkc.gov/budget until Friday 26 November.

Community RePaint Perth

As part of the European Week for Waste Reduction, Community RePaint Perth will be in the playground of Balhousie Primary School between 9.15am and 10.30am on next Wednesday to collect reusable paint from the public. Often people buy too much paint for their decorating jobs and it is usually either left in a shed or disposed of at landfill. This can be harmful to the environment and is a waste of resources, so the charity Community RePaint Perth works across Perth and Kinross to collect reusable paint and find new homes for it where it can be reused. Householders, new businesses, charities and artists (both from schools and art projects) can all benefit from this leftover, good quality paint. The paint can be reused if there is at least a litre left in the tin and the lid is on securely so that it has not dried out.

Census Recruitment

With the final preparations taking place for Scotland's biggest population survey recruitment for over 200 temporary census takers in the area has started. Successful applicants will form part of a team of 5800 enumerators across the country, which will deliver questionnaires to 2.5 million households ahead of census day next year on March 27th. Census takers will also deal with questions from members of the public and follow up on any questionnaires that have not been returned. Participation in the census is required by law and census takers play a key role in helping the public take part in the survey.

Perthfm News 17/11/10

2010-11-17T08:37:00.000-08:00

Incinerator Appeal Rejected

Last night local people were delighted to hear that an appeal against the refusal for a £100 million incinerator just a few hundred yards from the city centre was dismissed by a Scottish Government reporter.Controversy has raged for several years over plans for the development which was set to feature a 260 foot chimney stack.
Thousands of people objected to the proposal after it was revealed that council officials has granted outline planning consent for the Shore Road facility in 2006.
In a statement released this morning, applicant Grundon waste management have advised that they will be evaluating the full report in detail and review their options – which may include an assessment of alternative technologies and plant designs for use on the Shore Road site.
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New Council Housing

Housing and Health Convener Councillor Peter Barrett yesterday saw how work was progressing on the first Council accommodation to be built in Perth and Kinross for over 20 years. He visited the construction site at Fortingall Place, Letham, where six new units are under construction and are due to be completed by the end of December. The build is part of Perth & Kinross Council's plans to build 81 affordable housing units around Perth and Kinross. The ambitious new build programme will cost a approximately £10million. The Council has successfully bid for a total of £2m from a Scottish Government fund to assist with delivering new-build affordable local authority housing.

Andermass Fair

A colourful, noisy and bustling Medieval Fair will take place later this month to celebrate Perth’s historic past, and to mark St Andrew's Day.The Andermass Fair is a recreation of an event which traditionally took place in medieval times in Perth to celebrate the Feast of St Andrew (or Andermass), the first major Christian festival of Advent. The event will be held in King Edward Street on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 November, and will tie in with the Lightnight celebrations which will bring Perth 800 festivities to a close while also being a feature of Scotland’s Winter Festivals.

Perth FM News 16/11/10

2010-11-16T08:14:00.000-08:00

Changes to vocational training scheme

A new partnership between Council and a local training provider is offering funds to help people improve their work skills and opportunities for gaining employment.
The Council has linked up with Life Skills Central Perth, which provides innovative employability and vocational training to both individuals already in work and those seeking a job. Via the national Training for Work initiative, Life Skills Central also currently manages the Perth Individual Initiative Fund (PIIF). This successful Skills Development Scotland funded project offers eligible unemployed adults aged 18 and over grants of up to £1,000 for industry specific training. As a direct result of these grants awards, many individuals have been able to gain sustainable employment which would otherwise be inaccessible to them. As such funds will now be made available to not only enhance this offer to the current eligible client group, but also to young people aged 16 and over not in mainstream education, and those in low paid employment.

Recognition for local teacher

A teacher at Perth High School has been recognaised at a prestigious awards ceremony after being described as inspirational.Chemistry teacher Gordon Thorburn received the SQA champion accolade, which recognises those who support pupils and help them reach their full potential.He impressed judges with his commitment to training new staff, for being such a popular teacher and for having collated every SQA chemistry exam paper sinc e the 1960s.Mr Thorburn has been a teacher at perth high school since 1976.

Mouth Cancer Action Month

NHS Tayside’s Community Dental Service is urging people in Perth & Kinross to come along and have a free mouth cancer check during Mouth Cancer Action Month.
Running for the duration of November, Mouth Cancer Action Month highlights that in the UK it kills almost 2,000 people each year, This is the equivalent of one death every five hours. Professional check-ups and regular self-examinations are the best way to detect mouth cancer as soon as possible. Early diagnosis saves lives, improving survival chances from just half of cases to more than 90%.
All members of the public are invited along to these events. The mouth cancer check is quick, painless and could save your life.

Perth FM News 15/11/10

2010-11-15T07:57:00.000-08:00

Fire on Crieff Road

A farm building near McDiarmid Park went up in flames last night.Emergency services rushed to Newton of Huntingtower on Crieff Road after receiving reports of a fire.
Fire appliances from Perth and Dundee were scrambled, as there were concerns that diesel tanks were within the affected area. Fire-fighters had the blaze under control and extinguished within the hour and advised that a further inspection would be made in daylight hours

Universal Home Insulation Scheme
Residents of Highland Perthshire will have a chance to get their homes insulated free under a new initiative being launched by the Council and its partners. The Universal Home Insulation Scheme (UHIS) will begin following a successful bid for £590,000 of Scottish Government funding. The UHIS project will cover 6,000 homes in Aberfeldy, Blair Atholl, Dunkeld, Kenmore, Kinloch Rannoch and Pitlochry. Homeowners and private tenants in Highland Perthshire can get loft and/or cavity wall insulation installed through the scheme free of charge. Council tenants, or those living in a property owned by a housing association, can also be helped.
Any residents who think they are eligible can apply for free insulation. The scheme will end on March 31st 2011

Purse Bells

A new initiative in Perth that will use special bells to alert shoppers to bag and purse thefts will be launched on Friday. Funding from Perth Common Good Fund and St John's Shopping Centre has been used to buy a quantity of 'purse bells'. The bells can be attached to the purse of city centre shoppers, and any attempt to steal a purse will result in the bells ringing and attracting the attention of the purse owner and people nearby. Perth Safer Cities Initiative, in partnership with St John's Shopping Centre and Tayside Police will hand out the bells on Friday.

Perth FM News 12/11/10

2010-11-12T08:21:00.000-08:00

Housing Development Approved

Councillors have approved a major housing development on the outskirts of Methven this week. Members of the development control committee unanimously approved consent for 103 houses on a Greenfield site on the eastern edge of the village. The housing will be a mix of detached, semi-detached, terraced and flats. Twenty-four of the houses have been delegated as affordable.

Free Green Conference

Businesses are invited to a free green conference hosted by the Centre for Enterprise at Perth College UHI. The programme offers delegates the chance to learn about renewable technologies and opportunities for renewable energies within business. There will be the option of choosing two specialised workshops from a choice of solar thermal panels, wind turbines, biomass energy and heat pumps.
Registrations for the conference next Thursday must be made by Monday by calling 877207.

Lack of Disabled Access

Councillors have hit out at the disabled access at Perth and Kinross Council's old chambers on High Street for being completely unsuitable. After being alerted to the problem by a couple in her ward, Councillor Ann Cowan inspected a lift in the building, along with Councillor Heather Stewart and found it to be "inadequate".
A spokes person for the council admitted that it was a challenge to comply with legislation due to the layout of the old chambers. However, the lift is compliant with disabled access laws, although the council does recognise that it has limitations and that to date members of the public have raised no complaints about the issue.

Perth FM News 11/11/10

2010-11-11T07:55:00.000-08:00

Drug Dealer Jailed

A Perth Drug Dealer described by police as "head of a local crime group" was yesterday jailed for almost five years after he was spotted selling heroin from a stash near a school. Christopher Crowder hid wraps of the Class A drug in a plastic tub in bushes at Bute Drive – the road on which Perth Grammar and the St John’s Campus stand. He was snared by police surveillance soon after leaving prison early after conviction for a similar offence. Gang member Murray Christie was also caught with drugs and jailed yesterday.

Longer Hours for Parking Attendants

New shifts are to be introduced for Perth & Kinross Council's Parking Attendants in November. The new shifts are designed to maximise traffic flow during the busiest times of the day, and to enable fair and consistent use of the parking bays by visitors to Perth. This will ensure that people will be able to access local businesses more freely. The Council receives numerous complaints about parking including vehicles being parked indiscriminately on yellow lines and the misuse of disabled parking bays. It is hoped the new shift pattern will help to alleviate these problems. The move has been criticised by The Association of British Drivers who believe the move will deter shoppers from coming to Perth.

Give it up for Baby Scheme

A young Coupar Angus mum-to-be is giving her unborn baby the best start in life by successfully giving up smoking through NHS Tayside’s Give It Up For Baby (GIUFB) scheme. Eighteen-year-old Shannyn Nicoll has been smoke-free since signing up to the scheme around four months ago. She is due her first child in January, and began smoking when she was 14 and would smoke around 15-20 cigarettes a day.
When she discovered she was pregnant, Shannyn's midwife recommended she try the GIUFB scheme. Shannyn signed up at her local pharmacy, Davidson in Coupar Angus, and has passed her carbon monoxide test every week. "The first few weeks were difficult but the pharmacist really helped by offering me patches to stop the cravings," Shannyn explained.

Perth FM News 10/11/10

2010-11-10T08:25:00.000-08:00

Housing Benefit Cuts

Households across Perth and Kinross are set to be hit hard by planned housing benefit cuts, a leading charity has claimed. Figures released by Shelter Scotland showed that those living in the private rented sector could lose £56 per month on average. Perth and Kinross Council will not be drawn to comment on these forthcoming reductions as they are awaiting the outcome of yesterday's parliamentary debate. Changes to housing benefit and legislation are the first round of cuts that are expected to happen this month.

Real Nappy Project

New parents across Perth and Kinross have been taking part in a project celebrating Perth 800. Over 400 real nappy starter packs have already been handed out to residents in a bid to publicise the economic and environmental benefits of ditching disposables for terry towelling. The time to change your nappy project is collaboration between Perth and Kinross Real Nappy Network, NHS Tayside, Perth and Kinross Council and Stagecoach Group. The starter packs, which also include a week’s free bus travel, are being offered to the parents of every new baby born in the area this year.

Roadside Littering Crack Down

A major crack down on road littering aims to save Perth and Kinross Council thousands of pounds each year. Littering from vehicles has been identified as a major problem throughout the country with 53,000 bags of rubbish cleared from motorways in central Scotland every year.Perth and Kinross Council is working with the Scottish Transport Litter Group and their litter enforcement officers will be joining ranks with Tayside Police to carry out educational and enforcement activities.

Perth FM News 09/11/10

2010-11-09T08:01:00.000-08:00

Leisure Centre Up for Auction

A Perth Leisure Centre, which closed amid controversy two years ago, is set to go under the hammer. The Healthworks complex at Pitheavlis closed it's doors in 2008 after operators Norwich Union declared it was no longer financially viable. Now the Pitheavlis centre is to be auction by Edinburgh Firms SVA Property Auctions Ltd.
No guide price is listed for the auction, which is set to take place in Glasgow on November 23rd.

Locals Views Sought

Proposals that could see a third traffic crossing over the River Tay have been published for consultation as part of Perth & Kinross Council's strategy for shaping Perth's transport future. The strategy sets out the issues that must be addressed for the transport infrastructure to be fit to meet the future needs of residents, visitors and the local economy. Both local and through traffic is expected to increase in line with the future development of Perth and the wider region.
The consultation is seeking residents' views on the principal and location of the third crossing, and on their priorities for enhancements to the public transport, walking and cycling networks which would be included to support sustainable travel and the environment.

Air Quality Advice

Perth & Kinross Council has launched new web pages to outline what we can all do to improve the quality of air in the area. The pages at pkc.gov.uk/airquality are a way for the public to access information about air quality locally, and nationally, and get real-time data from our three monitoring stations. Two are in Perth and one is in Crieff. The pages also explain what the Council is doing to help reduce pollution, and also outline lifestyle changes that residents can make to do their bit. There is also a section for children. The aim is to allow people to make informed choices with regard to the kind of transport they use.

Perth FM News 08/11/10

2010-11-08T09:01:00.000-08:00

Improvement in Property Market
Perthshire's Property Market is in a significantly healthier state than it was 12 months ago, according to local property specialists.There has been no sign of an early freeze on the market as winter approaches, as house sales appear to be booming across the area.Approximately £123 million worth of homes have been sold in the last 3 quarters of this year, a rise of 28% on the previous year.There are also indications of confidence in the house-building sector with a flood of new development proposals being submitted to Perth and Kinross Councils planning department.

Help for Smokers
NHS Tayside is holding a free information evening for smokers in Perth to find out more about the support available to help them kick the habit. Anyone wanting to give up smoking is invited to come along to the drop-in event in the Sandeman Meeting Room in AK Bell Library between 5pm and 7.30pm tomorrow evening. Members of staff from Tayside Smoke Free Services will be on hand to give advice and information on giving up smoking and the various schemes run by NHS Tayside.

Injury blow for St Johnstone
After losing Saturday's home game against Kilmarnock, St Johnstone has faced an other blow.It has been confirmed that Marcus Haber has damaged his anterior cruciate ligament and will be out of action for the rest of the season.Boss Derek McInnes spoke to Perth FM

Perth FM News 05/11/10

2010-11-05T09:10:00.000-07:00

MIR Consultions

Residents of Perth and Kinross are being given the opportunity to have their say on the future provision of Council services in the face of unprecedented budget pressures. Perth & Kinross Council faces major financial challenges as a result of national budget cuts. Work has been ongoing for many months to explore options which will help find savings of around £38 million by 2013/14. To inform the decision-making process and to ensure that residents have the opportunity to air their opinions on what they see as priorities in terms of service provision, the Council has planned a range of public consultation and engagement activities. All residents will be invited to have their say from today, when an online questionnaire will be available on the Council website at www.pkc.gov/budget for a period of three weeks. Printed copies of the questionnaire will also be available on request.

Free Carer Training

The Princess Royal Trust Carers Centre (Perth & Kinross) is holding a free training session next Tuesday for unpaid carers who are looking after loved ones with Dementia. The session, running from 10.30am to 12.30pm at The Gateway in North Methven Street, will offer information on what dementia is and practical help and advice for caring. Speakers include Valerie Nelson from Perth & Kinross Council. The Princess Royal Trust Carers Centre, part of the local charity PKAVS, is in contact with over 500 adult carers across the Big County and the training session is open to any carer living in Perth & Kinross.

Miraculating Machine
Keep your eyes peeled on the 26th and 27th November, for a clanking tinkling spectacle of dysfunctional design may be coming your way. This is the Miraculating Machine. Here to provide the people of Perth with their very own free Stamping Service to commemorate the 800 year history of the city.
Artist Jessica Ramm is artist in residence for Perth 800. Her aim is to build an impossible looking stamping press to capture the imagination of the city and she is inviting the people of Perth to get involved by finding objects to be made into the machine. She is looking for alls sorts of things small, big. flat, round, vintage, made of metal, spiky or shiny any thing that you think might look good as part of a travelling machine. Jessica will be in the Garbologists shed at Friarton Depot Recycling Centre between 11 and 5 on Saturday ready to receive your donations. If you would prefer to bring a donation along at another time there is a recycling bin especially for the Miraculating Machine.

Perth FM News 04/11/10

2010-11-04T09:34:00.000-07:00

Main Issues Report Consultation

A major public consultation on future development in Perth and Kinross will continue this month. The Main Issues Report consultation gives local residents and businesses the chance to help shape the future of the area. A series of drop-in information sessions are being held around Perth and Kinross to ensure that as many people as possible take part. The findings of the consultation will help shape the area’s new Local Development Plan. At the drop-in sessions the public can view exhibitions displaying ideas and chat informally to Council officers and other members of the community. With the latest edition of the Yellow Pages beginning to drop onto local doorsteps, Perth & Kinross Council is encouraging residents to recycle their old copies.

Telephone Directory Recycling

For the first time, householders on the kerbside recycling service can now put the directories in their blue-lidded kerbside bins, as well as in paper banks at local Recycling Centres and Points, which are available all year round to recycle old and unwanted phone books. The Council would like to advise residents using Recycling Centres and Points that they should disregard signs on paper banks stating "No Telephone Directories". These signs are out of date and will be replaced in the near future, and old directories can be put into the paper banks along with other paper waste for recycling. Environment Convener, Councillor Alan Grant said: "This is an excellent opportunity to recycle your old Yellow Pages, as well as any other telephone directories and paper products that people are looking to dispose of. With around 70,000 new directories due to be delivered over the next few weeks, the old versions will create a substantial volume of waste within a relatively short time period. The more that are recycled means less will go to landfill, and instead the Yellow Pages will be recycled into new paper products."

Cadet Success

Cadets from Perth beat off competition from several teams to be named champion detachment at their final training weekend of the year.More than 40 members of the Alma Company Blackwatch Battalion Army Cadet Force attended the event at the Dunkeld training centre. Detachments from Perth, Viewlands, Auchterarder and Dunkeld competed in various activities, including mapwork, first aid, shooting and field craft. After beating their rivals from Auchterarder, the perth viewlands detachment walked away with the top accolade.

Perth FM News 03/11/10

2010-11-03T09:57:00.000-07:00

Parking Sensors in Town Centre

Perth residents have hit out at Perth and Kinross Council for installing parking sensors in George Street with no warning to drivers. A council spokes person has said that the temporary installation of parking sensors in George St and West Mill street is to demonstrate the sensors capabilities. The council has advised that they are not using the sensors to target drivers using these locations and that any information they produce after the trial period with give a snap shot of the park bays usage.

Remembrance Sunday Plea

As Remembrance Sunday draws near the Perth branch of Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) is asking people to dig deep. In 2009, the charity raised more than £50,000 for 100 local services mean and women and their families – and supporters hope the total will be even higher this year to mark its 125th anniversary. Anyone who has served, even briefly, could be eligible, including past and present members, TA members, Reserve Forces and those who did National Service.

Support for Local Businesses

Business Gateway, which offers advice and support for new companies has been approached by local business owners in recent months seeking help with issues relating to the day to day running of their organizations.A workshop on employing staff will be held at Business Gateways Perth office in Whitefriars Crescent next Thursday.It is aimed at businesses with limited knowledge of the subject and will provide information on issues including the changing terms and conditions of employment

Perth FM News 02/11/10

2010-11-02T09:18:00.000-07:00

Proposed Head Teacher Share Scheme

More schools in Perth and Kinross could share head teachers in the future after a pilot project was described as "very positive". A report to go before the life long learning committee suggests introducing a cluster headship in local schools "where appropriate". After detailed evaluation of the pilot, councilors will be asked to approve proposals for a cluster model of headship which would be tailored to fit circumstances as they arise.It is being stressed that any decision to introduce such models would be taken forward in consultation with school staff, parents and other key stake holders.

Drop-off Rip-off

Mid-Scotland and Fife Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser has criticised Edinburgh Airport for introducing the £1 drop-off charge, which came into effect over the weekend, as it will hit Perthshire residents who use the airport. The Scottish Conservatives are leading the campaign to stop the drop-off charge being brought in, with a petition set up at www.dropoffripoff.com, which has attracted over 9,000 supporters.
Murdo Fraser MSP said: "Edinburgh Airport is frequently used by many people from Perth and Perthshire and I believe that this charge is just plain wrong. There is every chance that this charge is the thin end of the wedge as there is nothing to stop BAA increasing the drop-off charge in the future. Indeed, they have already refused to rule out an increase. I urge Perth and Perthshire residents who use Edinburgh Airport to sign and support the Scottish Conservatives petition as we continue the fight against the drop-off rip off".

Local and Family History Open Day

A range of records, newspapers, photographs, maps and advice will be available for anybody wanting to find out more about their family history or local history at Blairgowrie Library. A Local and Family History Open Day will be held on Saturday from 10am to 1pm. Library staff and volunteers from the Local History Trust's Genealogy Centre will be able to give assistance in searching websites such as Ancestry as well as Old Parish Records and back copies of The Blairgowrie Advertiser on microfilm and microfiche. A member of staff will also be available to give specialist advice on researching military aspects of family history.

Perth FM News 01/11/10

2010-11-01T09:22:00.000-07:00

Change in Social Security Legislation

Perth & Kinross Council is set to expand a scheme that disregards war pensions when assessing and calculating housing benefit and council tax benefits. Currently in Perth and Kinross, war pensions, including war disablement pension, war widow’s pension or a war widower’s pension, are disregarded from a person's income when housing benefit and council tax benefits are being calculated. Social security legislation was amended earlier this year so that Service Attributable Pensions can also now be disregarded. Service Attributable Pensions are afforded under the Armed Forces Pension Scheme as a result of injury or illness, attributable to length of service.A meeting of the Housing and Health Committee on Wednesday will be asked to approve the expansion of our local discretionary scheme so that Service Attributable Pensions are disregarded in Perth and Kinross, along with all other types of war pension.

Local Care Commission Report

A care commission report on the high quality of care being provided by the Council's community care services and establishments will be presented this week.
15 Care Commission inspections were carried out between March 2009 and June 2010 at establishments which included Lewis Place Resource Centre, Dalweem Care Homes, Blairgowrie ARC, Gleneagles ARC, Beechgrove House and Rannoch Road Day Centre. Services such as Home Care were also inspected. The Care Commission reported on various aspects of the services using a grading service on four quality themes: Care & Support; Environment; Staffing; Management & Leadership. These are graded as either Very Good, Good or Adequate. During the inspections Perth & Kinross Council services received a total of 28 gradings of Very Good (53% of the overall total) 22 gradings of Good (42%) and three Adequate gradings (5%).

Respect on Rural Roads

Representatives of the National Farmers Union Scotland have urged all drivers to show common courtesy after local tractor drivers were slammed for failing to pull over when traffic builds up.

Long queues regularly form on some of Perthshires busiest routes as frustrated car drivers struggle to make their way past heavy agricultural vehicles.

The spokes person for the NFU asked for all drivers to show respect for other road users.

PerthFM News 29/10/10

2010-10-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

Council Spending Review

On November 4th, a Special Council Meeting will be held to consider the ‘Medium Term Financial Plan, Implications for Workforce Planning' report on savings proposals in Perth and Kinross for the next 3 years. Work has been ongoing for several months now to explore the options, which will help the council to find savings of around £38 million by 2013/14.A range of work force management measures have bee in place since November 2009 and the council are working on gaining approval for two categories of proposals. Leader of Perth and Kinross Council, Ian Miller said "Perth and Kinross is not immune to these cuts, but we are confident that we are well prepared to find these savings. Central to our approach has been a commitment to take all reasonable steps to avoid compulsory redundancies."

Time Capsule Buried

Today saw the Perth 800 time capsule will being buried on the North Inch, not to be opened until the year 2210 when Perth will celebrate its 1,000th anniversary.
The time capsule contains a wide variety of items from local residents, schoolchildren and organisations to provide future citizens with a snapshot of what life was like in early 21st century Perth. Perth & Kinross Council and the Royal Air Forces Association worked together on the time capsule idea to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain and Perth 800. They asked local people, clubs, businesses and groups to come forward with items to put into it.

Healthy Eating Workshops

Staff from the Paediatric Overweight Service Tayside (POST) visited Crieff Primary School along with Active Schools co-ordinators to highlight the importance of healthy eating and physical activity. Primary 7 pupils took part in the workshops, which focused on key health and well-being messages.Pupils saw that it was as "easy as 1, 2, 3" to be active for at least 1 hour a day, to spend less time watching television or playing computer games and to eat 3 healthy, balanced meals per day.

Perth FM News 28/10/10

2010-10-28T08:17:00.000-07:00

Council Food Audit

The Council's Food Law Enforcement Service has been given a positive report following an independent inspection, and this was presented to a meeting of the Council's Community Safety Committee yesterday. The Food Law Enforcement Service ensures that food safety, hygiene and quality standards are upheld by local food business operators. The audit found that the Council provided a high standard of food law enforcement, and provided a good service to both consumers and business owners.

Mountain Biking Conference

Mountain biking can be even more of a worldwide success story for Scotland – leading to additional health, economic and sporting benefits – but grass roots development is needed to sow the seeds of that growth.
That will be the strong message from leading speakers – including Scottish cycling star Mark Beaumont – at Scotland’s first ever national conference today in Perth.
It is being hosted to examine the development of mountain biking in Scotland.
Mountain biking has seen a massive rise in popularity in recent years, with Scotland now recognised as one of the best destinations in the world for mountain biking. Currently, the tourism market benefits by £119 million a year, with a potential for an extra £36 million a year.
Perthshire adventurer Mark Beaumont, will explain how his local cycling roots in Perthshire lead to the desire to cycle around the world – a journey which was watched by millions and captured in a BBC documentary.

Cat Protection Fund Raiser

Cats Protection are having a Coffee Morning this Saturday, at Scone Old Church Hall, Burnside, Scone from 10am to 1pm. There will be all the usual stalls including Cats Protection Christmas Cards, Calendars, Gifts, Tombola, Books, As New, Raffle and other gift stalls. Teas will be served. All monies raised will support cat rescue and rehoming work carried out by Cats Protection volunteers in the Perthshire area.
The Perth Branch of Cats Protection finds loving homes for around 250 cats and kittens each year. The Branch is run entirely by volunteers and depends on the generosity of the public to continue running its vital services for cats in the local area.

Perth FM News 27/10/10

2010-10-27T07:52:00.000-07:00

Perthshire Tourism Partnership

A new multi-agency body, which will aim to provide a co-ordinated approach to promoting the Perthshire tourism, met for the first time yesterday.
Members of the Perthshire Tourism Partnership (PTP), gathered in Pitlochry for it's inaugural meeting. The PTP brings together players from both public and private sectors, with the purpose of driving forward tourism priorities, exploiting common strengths and developing an action based approach to tourism. The first task the organisation faces is to revisit the existing tourism strategy to bring it into line with the national framework for change, and create an action plan for delivery of the strategy.

Commonwealth Experienc for local woman

A Blairgowrie woman picked to perform in the Commonwealth Games closing ceremony is hoping to inspire local youngsters to follow in her footsteps. Jennifer Younger returned from Delhi keen to share her incredible experiences and encourage school children to pull on their dancing shoes. She will be teaching a new set of street dances at leisure venue live active Blairgowrie next month. She was fortunate to be selected to join the 352 volunteers who delivered a dance routine full of Scottish flavour.

CIS Action at McDiarmid Park

Saint Johnstone face Celtic tonight in the quarterfinals of the CIS Cup at McDiarmid Park.This is a big week for Saints as they then face Celtic again at home on Saturday in a league game. Boss Derek McInnes spoke to Perthfm

Perth FM News 26/10/10

2010-10-26T09:12:00.000-07:00

Perthshire Potential for New World Heritage Site

Perthshire has been hailed as the perfect location for a new world heritage site, capable of attracting thousands of visitors.
The case for the creation of a National Roman Centre that would promote and protect the country's roman heritage was set out by Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser.
Mr Fraser was joined amid the remains of Ardoch Fort – part of the Gask Ridge Fronteir - by members of the living history re-enactment society the Antonine Guard as he call for the backing of the Scottish Government. A short document entitled Perthshire's Roman Past details the many locations with Roman links and presses the government to help make the centre a reality.

New Trading Standards Inspection Project

Perth & Kinross Council's Trading Standards Service regularly carries out area inspection projects which concentrate on a particular geographical area within the council boundary. The next area chosen is the Council Ward 2, Strathmore. For two weeks from Monday 8th November, Trading Standards officers will be visiting business premises, by prior appointment if requested beforehand, or otherwise in the course of their 'walking the beat' in the area. During the visits, traders will be able to raise any matters of concern to them and receive advice from the visiting officers. The aim of the inspection is to visit as many as possible, if not all businesses in the Strathmore ward.

Carbon Community Action Project

Saturday sees Guildtown and Wolfhill Carbon Community Action Project, supported by Perth & Kinross Council, host an art event for local children, to demonstrate how waste that would normally be recycled or go to landfill can be given a second life by being used to make something unique. Children at Guildtown Primary School are being encouraged to collect various unwanted household items that could be used in the art session. A local art project will be leading the event which will run between 10am and 4pm on at Guildtown Village Hall, on the village's Hall Road.
Children of all ages are welcome to attend and some of the activities include, making a plastic bag fence and making juice carton wallets

Perth FM News 25/10/10

2010-10-25T07:52:00.000-07:00

Perth and Kinross in UK top 100

Council chiefs have been buoyed by figures showing Perth and Kinross is in the top 100 UK areas for economic resilience.Following the comprehensive spending reviews announcements of swingeing budget cuts and expected decimation of local authority budgets, the news is welcomed by beleaguered book balancers.The national analysis was carried out by experian and examined a total of 356 districts across the UK.
The councils enterprise and infra structure committee convener Councillor John Kellas said "In the current financial downturn this assessment makes for positive reading."

Fund Raising Cook Book

Images of injured soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan spurred Perth fundraiser Pat McDonald to produce a recipe book to support front line service men and women. Sales of the latest collection of the talented cooks sought after recipes will go to help for heroes after she was tempted from retirement for a good cause.
She said, "Few of us can be unmoved by the injuries being sustained by our forces and the amazing work being carried out to nurse and care for them. The money I raise will help provide a wide range of support and facilities for these remarkable young men and women."

Perth College Graduates

Perth College UHI has 'graduated' from the Carbon Trust's Carbon Management Programme. Duncan White, Director of Resources received a certificate from John Swinney, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth, at the official ceremony in Edinburgh. The Carbon Management Programme is designed to help organisations develop a targeted framework to deliver carbon reduction practices by establishing their current baseline emissions, assessing the risks and opportunities posed by climate change, and developing a robust strategy to reduce carbon footprints over a five to ten year period. The College was one of 43 Scottish organisations to attend the Carbon Trust ceremony.

Perth FM News 22/10/10

2010-10-22T10:54:00.000-07:00

Scanning Device Found

An illegal scanning devise has been discovered attached to a cash machine at a Perth High Street bank. Police are advising people to be diligent when using cash machines in the wake of the incident at the Santander Bank, involving what are popularly termed as skimming devices. The device is believed to have been placed on the atm between 9am on Monday and 4pm on Tuesday. Local police advise that it is vital to scrutinize any cash machine before accessing it, as there have been other incidents elsewhere in Scotland.

Local Man Given MBE

A Perth man who dedicated five decades to the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme was honoured at Buckingham Palace. Jim Murray, development officer for Perth and Kinross Duke of Edinburgh Association, was made an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.
Mr Murray started on his first Duke of Edinburgh award in 1960 and by the time he was 18 had achieved his gold award. He was instrumental in developing the award scheme in Perth and Kinross.

Paddle 2010

This weekend sees Paddle 2010 take place in Perth at Bell's sports centre.This is Scotland’s annual canoe and kayak show and the event is being held on Saturday and Sunday. This event has steadily grown in size over the last 15 years and attracts thousands of paddlers from far and wide, some who come for the varied selection of talks on all aspects of the sport. The major canoe manufacturers and retailers supporting this show reflect the significance of paddlesport in Scotland and particularly in Perth & Kinross

Perth FM News 21/10/10

2010-10-21T09:08:00.000-07:00

Tay Descent Event

Four hundred canoeists from all over the UK will take part in a spectacular descent of the River Tay on Saturday 23 October to celebrate Perth 800. People in all kinds of craft will be taking to the river for the mass participation Tay Descent event.
There are three courses of varying difficulties for canoeists - one of five miles which starts from Luncarty, one of nine miles which begins at Burnmouth, and the longer 23-mile descent starting from Dunkeld. All the canoeists will end their official Tay Descent paddle between Smeaton Bridge and Queen's Bridge in Perth city centre.

Return of Enchanted Forest

Friday sees the Enchanted Forest return to Faskally Woods near Pitlochry. Using the forest as a natural backdrop, visitors experience a lighting show that is, quite simply, out of this world. The Enchanted Forest is renowned to be Scotland's premier sound and light experience and attracts around 20,000 visitors every year. This is the first year where there has been community involvement with the running of the show, and this has included a youth marquee in the town where you people can try their had at some of the skills involved with producing the event.

Tartan Launch

The new Pitlochry Tartan is to be officially launched on Sunday at Fisher's Hotel.
The Highland Fashion Fling will bring together business and community groups with local people to see the benefits of the new tartan which was unveiled earlier this year.The tartan has been incorporated into a range of goods and the economic benefits from tartan licences and royalties will be returned as benefits to the community.

Perth FM News 20/10/10

2010-10-20T08:36:00.000-07:00

Jewel of Kinross-shire

Visitors and local people now have an extra incentive to explore the beautiful areas around Loch Leven in Kinross-shire thanks to a new special offers guide launched by Perth & Kinross Council today. 'Loch Leven - Jewel of Kinross-shire' is a 28-page guide featuring over 20 money-saving offers from a diverse variety of businesses around the loch - everything from hotels and coffee shops to bike hire, bird watching and hot air balloon trips. The guide will make it even easier to explore this beautiful area and make the most of its wide range of attractions and businesses. It is a partnership project between the Council and local businesses, and is part of the Developing Rural Tourism project which is being supported by the European Regional Development Fund. Copies of the special offers guide are available from local businesses around Loch Leven, from VisitScotland Information Centres throughout Perthshire and also from the VisitScotland iPoint at The Pier, Kinross.

Perth 800 Time Capsule

Perth and Kinross residents have only a few days left to ensure they can become a part of history by donating a personal item to be buried in the Perth 800 time capsule. The Royal Air Forces Association and Perth & Kinross Council are working together on the time capsule project. It will be buried on the North Inch during a public ceremony. The project is to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain and Perth 800, and aims to capture what life was like in the early 21st century. It will be filled with letters, school projects, photographs and details of local people and organisations. Anyone who wishes to donate an item - whether it be a wedding picture, a family photograph, a news article, a letter, a CD or any other personal item - should take it to the reception at Blackfriars Development Centre, North Port, Perth, marked for the attention of Paul Rosie before this Friday.

Live and Learn Activity Drop-in

Today saw the first free Live and Learn Activity Drop-in at the North Inch Community Campus for North Perth residents organized by Perth and Kinross Council.
The sessions which will be held from 10am to 12noon on Wednesdays are open to everyone and will run until November 17th.Art and crafts, cookery and other activities will be on offer at the drop-in, which will primarily be held in the North Inch Community Library on campus. Staff at the library will be more than happy to provide informal tours for people attending the sessions and talk about the range of facilities that are on offer.

Perth FM News 19/10/10

2010-10-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

Traffic Commissioner Ruling

A Perthshire bus firm has been ordered to remove 20% of its fleet from the roads after a wheel detached from one of its vehicles on the A90. Smith and Sons of Coupar Angus were reported to the Traffic Commissioner following the incident at Kinfauns in December. Defects in other buses, which rendered them un road worthy, were also later uncovered out at the firm. In a ruling issued yesterday, Traffic Commissioner, Joan Aitken said "It is extremely lucky that no one was hurt in this incident and that the driver was able to pull into a lay by in the nick of time".

Waste Fortnight Success

At the end of September, Comrie Development Trust, in partnership with Perth & Kinross Council, hosted the Comrie Zero Waste Fortnight encouraging the community to reduce, reuse and recycle their waste as much as possible. The community's efforts have paid off with householders reducing the amount of waste put in the green-lidded household bin by 2080 kg, a reduction of 13% in just two weeks. As a result, Comrie Primary School will receive a cheque for £146 from the Council, equivalent to the approximate costs of sending this amount of waste to landfill. The school is planning to spend the money on their outdoor Green Classroom.

Money Management Course

Would you like some money management advice? A free and fun course is being run at Letham Community Learning Centre designed to give people useful tips on how to develop their money management skills. The course will be covering topics such as 'What kind of spender are you?’ interest rates and budgeting. The course starts on Wednesday 27 October and run each Wednesday until 1 December. Sessions will run from 10am - 12.00pm.

Perth FM News 18/10/10

2010-10-18T08:23:00.000-07:00

Safety Cameras in Operation

Tayside Safety Camera Partnership are targeting danger zones on roads in Perth and Kinross. Until the twenty second of October, that's this Friday, there's going to be more cameras on sites with a history of collisions and evidence of speeding drivers.
Some of the routes affected include the A93 Old Scone to Blairgowrie Road at Meikleour, the A94 Scone to Coupar Angus Route and the A977 Kinross to Crook of Devon Road at Balado.

Glass Recycling Encouraged

The Perth and Kinross area has a high recycling rate thanks to residents support for services run by Perth & Kinross Council, which allow householders to recycle a wide range of their everyday waste. However, the Council has today reminded householders about the facilities available for recycling glass locally, to encourage more people to drop off their glass containers at Recycling Centres and Points instead of throwing them into their general waste bin, from where they will end up in landfill.
It is estimated by British Glass that the average UK household uses 331 glass bottles and jars every year. Unfortunately, only around half of these are recycled. In Perth and Kinross, this means that every year around 2700 tonnes of glass goes into general waste bins for disposal in landfill. The cost of this to the Council is estimated at £189,000, which in the present financial climate could be put to better use in other ways.

Future Development Consultation Ongoing

It's week two of the fourteen week consultation in Perth and Kinross about the areas future development. It's the biggest consultation ever to be undertaken by the planning authority. Events are being organized to allow locals the opportunity to talk to council officers about the local development plan. There's a drop in session being held today from 2pm till 8pm at Kinross Community Campus.

Perth FM News 15/10/10

2010-10-15T09:23:00.000-07:00

Hardie moves from Saint's to Jag's

St Johnstone manager Derek McInnes has been telling us Martin Hardie's month loan with Partick Thistle will be good for the player. The saints midfielder is returning to Fairhill where he had a successful career from 2000 to 2003. McInnes says it was an easy move.

Perthshire pensioner on sex offender's register

A pensioner from Perthshire has been placed on the sex offender's register. The town's sheriff court heard how seventy seven year old Francis Coutts touched a sixteen year old the girl on the body and the leg when on the bus. Mr Coutts admitted he conducted himself in a disorderly manner by making inappropriate comments and committing a breach of the peace. Sheriff Micheal Fletcher called for a social enquiry before sentencing but has placed him on the sex offenders register in the short term.

Rally of Scotland comes to Pertshire

The Rally of Scotland's kicking off from Perth's Scone Palace tonight. Drivers will be racing on closed gravel roads in Perth and Kinross and Stirling. The race is part of Perth's eight hundred-anniversary celebration. The rally's closing at Stirling Castle on Sunday.

Perth FM News 15/10/10

2010-10-14T09:22:00.000-07:00

Golfer's kept in dark about new bridge

Officials from Perth and Kinross council are being slated by a local organization for ignoring its concerns on the new cycle bridge in Perth. The North Inch user group say they weren't consulted on the location of the connect 2 bridge which will link the park with Isla road. The bridge's proposed position has now been moved six hundred yards, meaning it will now be on the golf course. Chairman Jack McLeish says it's going to ruin the course for a lot of golfers.

Murdo Fraser's making tracks for the fair city

Mid Scotland and Fife Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser's lodging parliamentary questions, asking the SNP Government what it's doing to improve train services between Perth and Edinburgh. Mr Fraser's been campaigning for improvement to the Perth train station and rail links between Perth and Edinburgh. Today he's been asking what action's been taken to improve train services between the two cities.
He's also been enquiring for a break down of the costs of improvements to train stations in Scotland over the last three years.

More job cuts in Perth

Workers at the Vector Aerospaces Perthshire plant are having to come to terms with news their workforce is being cut by ten percent. About thirty jobs are being axed at the Almondbank unit. Senior management there are calling it a "restructuring" exercise. Officials at the plant say they’re not releasing any statements on site.

Perth FM News 13/10/10

2010-10-13T08:52:00.000-07:00

Council Consultation underway

It's day three of the biggest and most extensive consultation ever undertaken by Perth and Kinross council. A fourteen week programme concerning the future development in Perth and Kinross is currently underway. Drop in sessions and workshops are being held in the Perth and Kinross area to make sure locals can get involved in the consultation on the report for the local development plan. So far the sessions have been held in Perth, Coupar Angus, Scone and Stanley.

Driver survives horror crash

A driver narrowly escaped death yesterday when her car plunged thirty feet down a steep embankment in Perth. The woman, who hasn't been named, smashed into a tree at the bottom of the hill in the Strathtummel area. She's now reportedly in Ninewells hospital in a stable condition. An investigation into the accident began last night.

Revised bus times in Perth

We're being told a number of Stagecoach bus time tables across Perthshire are going to be revised from Monday the twenty fifth of October. It's mainly minor adjustments to improve the services reliability across the area. An information bus with details of all the services is going to be located on Perth's High Street from eleven am next Tuesday. For more information on the changes go to www.stagecoachbus.com or visit any local travel shop.

Perth FM News 12/10/10

2010-10-12T08:55:00.000-07:00

A9 Crash victim named

The man who died in a car accident on the A9 yesterday in Perthshire has been named as forty one year old Roy Green from Kilsyth. The two vehicle collision caused massive tailbacks for drivers heading for Perth yesterday morning. It happened on the northbound carriageway about four miles from Auchterader. Mr Greene's passenger has suffered minor cuts to his leg and chest but the driver of the other vehicle wasn't injured.

Perthshire home trashed by teens

A dad from Perth has been warning other parents about house parties after his home was trashed by a group of teenagers. Murray Duncan's fifteen year old son had been allowed friends over at the weekend while his mum and dad were out. But the teen called his father in a panic when about fifty youths turned up to the house uninvited. The kids caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to the property including the pulling doors from their hinges, breaking beds and pouring vodka and crisps into the aquarium which killed the families fish.

Scotland take on Spain

Scotland are facing Spain tonight at Hamden in the qualifying stages of Euro 2012.
The tartan army already have four points from their first three matches of the campaign while Spain sit top of Group one.

Perth FM News 11/10/10

2010-10-11T09:01:00.000-07:00

A9 Road Crash

A man's died in a road crash on the A9 in perthshire this morning. We're being told he was forty one and from the Kilsyth area. His van collided with a tipper truck on the northbound carriage way about half six. The passenger has some minor cuts to his leg and chest but the diver of the truck hasn't been injured.

Local Development Plan

A fourteen week public consultation on developments in Perth and Kinross kicks off today. Drop in sessions and workshops are being held around the area so locals can discuss the Main Issues Report for the new local development plan. It's the largest and most extensive public consultation exercise ever undertaken by the planning authority. Council leader Ian Miller has been telling us it's important people get involved in the discussions.

Commonwealth Games win for Perthshire athlete

Perthshire girl Ailey Child will be celebrating after a win at the Common Wealth games in Delhi. She won the silver in the four hundred metre hundred final. The twenty three year old is a PE teacher at Perth Grammar.

Perth FM News 08/10/10

2010-10-08T08:43:00.000-07:00

Police warn locals of bogus workmen

Tayside Police are asking people in Perthshire to be vigilant to workmen in the area. The advice comes after three men pretended to carry out work in the Nimmo Avenue area of the city last night. They proceeded to steal money from one of the households in the neighborhood. Officers are advising locals to always ask for identification from workers coming into their homes.

Insulation scheme to create jobs for Perth and Kinross

Politicians are saying a grant from the Scottish Government will create local jobs in Perth and Kinross. The governments giving five hundred and ninety thousand pounds to improve energy efficency in the area. It's part of a ten million pound package in line with Scotland's energy efficency action plan. It's anticipated much of the money will be spent on home insulation.

New buzz in Perth

Children from Kinross Primary school have been to visit a new Bee Sanctuary in Perthshire. It's been created at the RSPB Scotland's Vane Farm nature reserve on the shores of Loch Leven. The site of the new bee sanctuary is in an area of the reserve known as "Little Vane".

Perth FM News 07/10/10

2010-10-07T08:49:00.000-07:00

Clachan Construction to pay staff

Creditors are saying former employees from collapsed Perth building firm Clachan Construction should get any wages they're due. Accountants Henderson Loggie say about seven hundred thousand pounds has been raised by selling off assets of the company. The employees who lost their jobs in July are set to paid first from the funds but other creditors might not be so lucky. The business which operated across central Scotland, folded in July this year

Future of Kinfauns Church still uncertain

Councillors are being told plans to convert a Perthshire church into a house are on hold. The future of the empty Kinfauns church was supposed to be decided by the council's development control committee earlier. But the item was removed from the meetings agenda because of "technical reasons." It's anticipated the committee will discuss the matter in either November or December.

Perth's Potato Heads give to charity

Staff from a Perthshire potato company have raised thirteen thousand pounds for Macmillan Cancer Support. The twelve Greenvale AP team members took part in a triathlon event. The group, nicknamed the Potato Heads, managed to raise nine thousand two hundred and sixty six pounds through their own efforts. A further three thousand, eight hundred and twenty three pounds was donated by the Burrelton based Greenvale AP.

Perth FM News 06/10/10

2010-10-06T08:51:00.000-07:00

South Inch Regeneration

The regeneration of the South Inch in Perth is getting underway in the next few weeks. The first phase of improvements will concern the revamp of the parklands boating pond. Perth and Kinross council want to revitialise the park for locals and visitors by providing a leisure and recreation facility. Other planned improvements include a new play area, better entrances and paths and enhancing the appearance of the parks landscape.

Council services get reshaped for the elderly

Perth and Kinross council is reforming services for elderly residents. It's because the number of people over sixty five living in the area is expected to go up seventy four percent by 2031. As part of the reshape in services, the council's introducing a reablement programme this week. It's designed to help people get back to work after poor health or being in hospital.

Saint's manager talks to us about John Hughes

St Johnstone's manager Derek McInnes has been telling Perth FM he was surprised by Hibs manager John Hughes's resignation. Hughes quit earlier this week after the side lost 2 nil to St Johnstone at the weekend. The Saints manager says he's sad to see him go.

Perth FM News 05/10/10

2010-10-05T09:05:00.000-07:00

Proposed waste site near Glenfarg

Plans for a waste site at Binn Farm near Glenfarg have been submitted to Perth and Kinross Council. If it get's the go ahead then a plant capable of dealing with sixty thousand tonnes of public waste could be created on the site. It's thought the scheme could generate enough electricity to heat and light the equivalent of around eight thousand homes.

Unemployment in Perth

New figures are revealing over fourteen and a half thousand people in Perth and Kinross are relying on benefits. The rate of the areas income deprivation is about ten percent. That's less than half the rate of Dundee. The research also shows about sixteen percent of Scotland's overall population is now classed as income deprived.

Book for the People of Perth

A Book written to take Perthshire locals back up memory lane has been launched in bookshops. The People's Perth is being published as part of the year long Perth eight hundred celebrations. It's been put together by the Courier and features loads of archived pictures from the newspaper and locals. You can buy the book from WH Smith, Waterstones, A.K Bell library and newsagents.

Perth FM News 04/10/10

2010-10-04T09:15:00.000-07:00

Perth employee features in global campaign

An Aviva employee from Perth has been selected to appear in the insurance companies global campaign. Michelle Marr from Craigie has been chosen for the "You are the big picture" campaign because of her outstanding customer service. Her image is going to be projected on London’s National Theatre as well as appearing at York Station. The campaign is launching today and is running for three years.

Locals have their say in city's future

A fourteen-week consultation between Perth's residents and businesses could be what decides the future of the fair city. A report being published this Friday is launching the discussion period. The aim of the Main Issues Report is to find out what locals think about policy and development options for the future of the city.
Drop in sessions and workshops are going to be held throughout Perth and Kinross so locals can have their say.

Another win for the Saints!

St Johnstone secured their second win of the season over the weekend with a two nil win against Hibs. A second-half header from Liam Craig and an injury-time strike from Marcus Haber seemed to put pressure on John Hughes. The Hiberniain manager announced his resignation from the club earlier.

Perth FM News 01/10/10

2010-10-01T10:40:00.000-07:00

Golfers rise up against bridge plans

Local golfers are tot take their fight against the new Tay Cycle bridge to the Perth Public.The group of North Inch Players are furious their course will be disrupted by months of building work for the Connect2 span which will stretch to isla Road providing a bike link to scone. They will be at the Perth Farmers Market asking the public to sign a petition opposing the £2.6 million span. Although £1.25 million was secured through a lottery grant the short fall must be met from council funds, a commitment given by the authority despite the fact there are large budget cuts on the horizon.

National Liftshare Week

Perth and Kinross Council urges people to car-share for first ever nationwide Liftshare Week. With petrol prices hitting a record high this year, and the recession still having a very real impact on people's pockets, Perth & Kinross Council is highlighting how people can try filling their empty car seats for the first ever nationwide car-sharing week. Next week is Liftshare Week 2010, and it aims to encourage commuters to discover the benefits of sharing their drive to work. People who live or work in Perth and Kinross are able to search for someone to share their journey on www.perthandkinrossliftshare.com "We're asking everyone to look at how often they travel alone by car" said Enterprise and Infrastructure Convener Councillor John Kellas. "There's nearly always someone going the same way - especially on the daily commute - and if you take a passenger or two, you'll probably save yourself hundreds of pounds a year, as well as easing local pollution and congestion.

35 new jobs created

The Tiso Experience Centre at Inveralmond has opened today, creating 35 new jobs in the local area. This is the 4th centre the family run group has opened in Scotland and it hopes to attract customers from further afield. Chief executive Chris Tiso spoke to Perth FM

Perth FM News 29/09/10

2010-09-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

Local Alarm Scam

Vulnerable Perth and Kinross Residents are being targeted by a new scam that aims to con them out of thousands of pounds. Older residents have been warned to be aware of calls suggesting their community alarm service is being withdrawn and offering replacement security alarms. Local pensioners have already been targeted and Perth and Kinross Council has received reports of residents being asked to pay £2000 for the replacements alarms. The council has advised that non-one should pay for such alarms, as the community alarm service is not being removed. The firm involved is being investigated and local trading standards would like to hear from anyone who has been approached in this way.

Show Racism the Red Card
The national campaign to rid football of racism had its local launch yesterday at McDiarmid Park, home of St Johnstone FC. The annual fortnight of Show Racism the Red Card action will be marked by a number of events in Perth and Kinross. It runs from Friday October 15th until Saturday October 31st and will be supported by all Scottish Football Clubs. St Johnstone yesterday unveiled the 2010 poster and volunteers will distribute these to fans on Saturday before the home came against Hibernian.

Road Safety Event

Motorists in Perth had their driving skills put to the test yesterday by road safety officers from Tayside Police. They took their safety message to the town centre and challenged residents to take part in a series of challenges aimed at discovering whether their driving capabilities are as good as they believe. The interactive events gave participants the chance to try out a computerised brake reaction tester, which offers a clear reminder of how long it can take a vehicle to stop. Chief Inspector Sandy Bowman, head of the road-policing unit, said, "It is in everyone's interest that people are reminded regularly of the dangers traffic may pose whenever they use the roads".

Perth FM News 29/09/10

2010-09-28T08:38:00.000-07:00

Help@Hand Event

More than 20 local organisations will be on hand at an event in Perth tomorrow designed to help school pupils with additional support needs plan for their transitions to the world of work and independent living. Help@Hand will take place in The National Christian Outreach Centre, Riggs Road, between 10am and 3pm. It will provide a wide range of information and advice on job seeking, training and further education. This is a drop-in event open to children and young people in Perth and Kinross who may need extra help with their learning and may be looking for ideas for post-school. Parents and carers are also very welcome to come along.The event marks a fourth year of collaboration between Perth & Kinross Council and local agencies.

Advice given to Local Walkers

Walkers have been warned to take care in the Perthshire hills as the red deer stalking season continues. The season runs from July until Feb14th but the main activity takes part from this month through until December. The red stag cull has now started and finishes late next month, with hind culling taking place thereafter.
Perth and Kinross Outdoor Access Forum Convener Nick Cole said, "Stalking is a very important activity in the Highlands and on the open hill and is often crucial to employment in the fragile glens so the public are asked to work closely with estates and stalkers to minimise any possible adverse impacts on stalking".

Blysthwood Shoebox Appeal

A three-figure sum was collected at a fund raising coffee morning held at the North Church halls by Perth Blythswood Support Group.The event raised £632 for the organisation and also saw Provost John Hulbert and his wife Sara launch this year's shoebox appeal.Leaflets and wrapped shoeboxes, which are available for a donation, can be picked up from the North Church office between 10am and 12 noon, Monday to Friday. Due to storage issues donations cannot be accepted until 18th October, with bulk deliveries only being accepted after 1st November.

Perth FM News 27/09/10

2010-09-27T07:59:00.000-07:00

Door Open Day Success
Thousands of visitors were given a view inside some of Perthshire's most historically significant builds at the weekend as the Doors Open Day festival was held.Among the venues taking part was Tayside Police’s divisional headquarters in Perth. Tickets for the tours of the building were snapped up not long after being made available. Visitors yesterday enjoyed displays from the Tayside Police Dog Section and a presentation by the road-policing unit. A total of 52 properties throughout Perth and Kinross took part in the Doors Open Day 2010.

Rally Legend Killed

Perthshires famous Colin McRae forest stages rally ended in tragedy on Saturday when a former world champion's car careered off the course and slammed into trees. Jimmy Girvan died instantly and his navigator, electronics tycoon Mike Ramsay, was rushed to hospital. Girvan's death has been described as a "huge loss" to the world of motor sport.The forest stages rally – held in tribute to the late Colin McCrae, was immediately cancelled as a mark of respect

Accident at Scone Palace

Officials at Scone Palace have confirmed that the Palace's 16th century archway has been demolished in an accident which took place earlier today The iconic symbol, which was all that remained of the approach to the Augustinian Abbey which once stood on the Palace lawns, was hit by a van being driven by contractors who were on site to pick up a marquee used at an event over the weekend.Suzanne Urquhart, Chief Executive at Mansfield Estates said: "We were notified of the accident shortly before 1pm today and took immediate steps to make the area around the archway safe. We are currently taking advice from Historic Scotland and have arranged for conservation architects to examine what remains of the archway as soon as is practical, with a view to undertaking a reconstruction project in the longer term. Clearly we are devastated that such a priceless monument and important piece of Scottish history has been destroyed in this manner, however we are thankful that neither the driver nor any member of the public was injured".

Perth FM News 24/09/10

2010-09-24T08:33:00.000-07:00

Death of Former Head Teacher

The former head teacher of St Ninians Primary School in Perth, Freda Cameron has died, she was 61. Mrs Cameron had been battling cancer for more than 18 months and died on Sunday. Well known to generations of school children, Mrs. Cameron spent 15 years as head teacher at St Ninians and worked as a teacher at the school for several years prior to this. Mr Cameron said, "Teaching was her life, each of the children meant a lot to her and she still remembered them years later".

Blythswood Shoe Box Appeal

The local Blythswood Shoe Box Appeal will be launched by Provost Hulbert at the Perth Support Group coffee morning in the North Church halls tomorrow. Pre-wrapped shoe boxes will be available and donations of home baking, books or toys for the stalls can be handed in from 9-10am. Shoe box appeal leaflets and pre-wrapped shoe boxes will also be available from Monday from the North Church. Filled boxes should not be handed in before October 18th and bulk deliveries can only be taken from the week starting November 1st. November 5th is the last day for handing in boxes.

Review of Polling Places

Proposals to reduce the number of schools used as polling places go before Council on next week. Thirteen schools are currently used as polling places which means that they close to pupils on election days. A review has been carried out of parliamentary constituency polling districts and polling places, in advance of the Scottish Parliament Elections that will be held on 5 May 2011. The report going to Council recommends that alternative venues are used wherever they are available.

Perth FM News 23/09/10

2010-09-23T08:22:00.000-07:00

Adult Learners Get Recognition

Adult learners who have attend the Get Ready for Change course at Letham Learning Centre were presented with certificates yesterday.The course is designed to allow participants to explore how change affects their daily lives.They have the opportunity to learn tips about how to deal with life's challenges and to explore a number of topics including self-esteem and the setting of personal goals.The course is run by the council's adult learning team.

Green Power Challenge

Fifth year pupils at Blairgowrie High School are taking part in a green power challenge to design and build a kit car to compete in endurance races on some of Scotland's top circuits. In Dragons Den style, the pupils put together an impressive presentation and made a pitch to mechanics from local design and build company Algo, which resulted in the offer of advice and parts to help build the car. Pauline Alexander of Algo said, "I was delighted when the pupils asked Algo if we could consider supporting their project and I am very impressed by the way they have approached their challenge".Greenpower Challenge is dedicated to promoting engineering and technology as careers to students aged nine to twenty five who are in full or part-time education.

European Mobility Week

A unicycling clown took to Perth's shopping streets yesterday to encourage people to leave their cars at home. To mark European Mobility Week, volunteers manned stalls in the High Street to hand out information on sustainable transport.Passers-by were given the chance to find a lift-share, a cycle shop gift voucher was up for grabs and to also obtain advice on walk and cycle routes.Details on local public transport and energy efficiency were also available.

Perth FM News 22/09/10

2010-09-22T08:44:00.000-07:00

Illegal tobacco summit

Discussions from yesterday's illegal tobacco trade summit in Perth will form the foundation of a report for the Scottish Government. Police, health representatives and retailers were among those at the talk focused on the sale of illegal tobacco and its links with organized crime. The illicit market share in the UK is around twelve percent for cigarettes and forty eight percent for rolling tobacco.

Government bonus schemes in question

Small businesses in Perthshire are being advised there's no guarantee a government bonus scheme will remain in place, because of public sector cuts.Earlier this week figures showed the Small Business Bonus Scheme saved some companies in Perth and Kinross an average of two thousand and sixty seven pounds each during the credit crunch. But now the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce is warning the scheme could be reviewed and future savings may not be possible. The funding scheme was introduced by the Scottish Government in April 2008.

St Johnstone through to quarter finals

The saints managed a three nil victory last night at McDairmid park. Jody Morris, Marcus Haber and Chris Miller all secured goals in a space of eight minutes in the second half. The result means St Johnstone ease into the quarter finals of the Co-operative Insurance Cup.

Perth FM News 21/09/10

2010-09-21T08:40:00.000-07:00

MP pushes Blind Cord Campaign

A South Perthshire MP is refusing to back down as he bids to force talks about the danger of looped blinds which cost children’s lives every year. Gordon Banks began his campaign in 2008 following the death of toddler Murieann McGlaughlin who died after becoming entangled in the cord of a looped blind in her home. Mr Banks went before a new backbench committee in the House of Commons to debate the issue telling members tighter regulations are needed in the window blind industry as well as suggesting a re-design of products using the looped cord design. His plea did not find favour but he insists his campaign will continue saying the issue is deserving of attention.

ASH meet in Perth

A range of organizations has meet in Perth today to discuss the issue of illicit tobacco and its impact on Scotland’s communities. The Summit, summit brought together a variety of different organisations with an interest in the issue including, health organisations, HMRC, police, trading standards, retailers and academics and a variety of speakers presented the current Scottish, UK, and international perspectives on illicit tobacco. ASH Scotland Chief Executive Sheila Duffy said: "The selling of illicit cigarettes, whether smuggled or counterfeit, is an issue for all of us. Illegal sales undermine public health messages that aim to encourage smokers to quit and prevent our children from starting".
It’s the first time all the organizations have met in Scotland.

Glorious Finale at Perth Race Course

Tomorrow sees the star of the 2 days Glorious Finale at Perth Race Course. It is the oldest fixture in their National Hunt Calendar and is the conclusion of a highly successful 2010 season. The prestigious fixture dates back to the informal beginnings of racing in the 17th Century and has maintained a special place in the social calendar. In years gone by, when the fixture was held down on Perth’s South Inch, Bonnie Prince Charlie is said to have hidden among the race goers.Sam Morshead, Race Course General Manager, said "Having always maintained a special place in the social calendar, there is no doubt that the Glorious Finale will attract a high attendance".

Perth FM News 20/09/10

2010-09-20T08:49:00.000-07:00

More wind farms proposed for area

Concern over the proliferation of wind Farms in Perthshire is set to deepen after the Scottish Government signalled its intention to push ahead with an onshore development.Scotland is leading a new EU-wide drive to increase consenting rates for on and offshore wind projects and energy minister Jim Mather believes communities need to get on board and "play their part in the renewables revolution."However, Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser believes the minister will have struck fear into the hearts of many Perthshire residents who already feel under siege from wind farm development.While 13 wind farms have so far been proposed and rejected by Perth and Kinross Council, five have been given the go-ahead by Scottish ministers following appeals.

Locals take action for safety
A bid to cut motorcycle accidents on notorious roads north of Blairgowrie will be made at a public meeting tonight.Called by local councillor, Caroline Shiers, the meeting will examine how best to reduce the number of accidents on the routes in the summer months.Ms Shiers said the timing was appropriate as the peak times come to an end and residents will be able to share their feelings about the past few months with attending police officers.The meeting will take place in the Bridge of Cally Hall from 7pm and is open to all.

St Johnstone happy with result

Saturday saw St Johnstone win 2-1 to St Mirren giving them their first win of the season. Andy Jackson scored the first goal for the home side but 20 minutes later he had to be stretchered off after a horrific collision with the St Mirren Goal Keeper.
Boss Derek McInnes spoke to Perth FM

Perth FM News 170910

2010-09-17T08:22:00.000-07:00

Provost promises to scrutinise spending

The Provost of Perth and Kinross has admitted the scrutiny of civic receptions will be "even more rigorous" after it was revealed that taxpayers had stumped up £137,000 for hospitality since 2005. Statistics obtained have shown that the vast majority of the total – just over £121,000 was spent on external events. Meanwhile, just under £16,000 was splashed out on entertaining people in the local authorities purpose built civic lounge. The Tax Payers Alliance branded some of the spending "insensitive" and called for "fat to be trimmed."

Fire at Perth College

Fire fighters tackled a blaze in an empty accommodation building in the grounds of Perth College last night. They were alerted to the fire in the building, which is accessed form Struan Road, shortly before 9.20pm. Five appliances attended the fire and a hose and reel and breathing apparatus were used in extinguishing the blaze.
The cause of the fire has yet to be established and police are appealing for witnesses.

Carnival Day leads to road closures

Tomorrow is Carnival Day in the fair city! Colourful costumes, mesmerising music and sizzling samba and Brazilian beats are just some of the things that will all combine for a Carnival extravaganza throughout Perth tomorrow. Carnival will be the most colourful and exciting event in this year that celebrates Perth 800, the fifth birthday of the Concert hall and the 75th anniversary of the Perth Theatre Company.
The emphasis is on young people and as such almost every primary and secondary school in Perth and Kinross have been involved in workshops. The events start with the Carnival Procession at 12 noon and there will be activities and performances until 6pm. Some road closures are in place to allow for the festivities.

Perth FM News 16/09/10

2010-09-16T08:40:00.000-07:00

Council Green Travel Plan given the go ahead

A new 10,000 a year “"green" travel plan that would have "minimal" environmental benefits has been voted through by councillors in Perth and Kinross, despite angry opposition in council chambers. Members of the strategic policy and resources committee had been asked to approve the Perth City Centre Council Staff Travel Plan. The concept is to promote cycling, walking, use of public transport and lift shares for staff to and from the four main council sites in the city centre. A heated debate ensued before the vote was eventually taken with some councillors branding the project a waste of tax payers money.The controversial plan was eventually voted through by 10 votes to four.

Council advise more savings required

A raft of cut backs and efficiencies will be required as Perth and Kinross Council bids to balance the books, council leader Ian Miller warned yesterday. Despite making savings of an "impressive" £9 million in the last financial year, Mr Miller revealed further savings are needed "across all aspects of the council." Nevertheless he is assuring residents the local authority will do "everything possible" to reduce any adverse effects on local authority services.Mr Miller confessed there are tough times ahead as the effects of a crippling global down turn continue to be felt.

Landmark Property may be closed

Councillors yesterday described themselves as "horrified" after claiming cost cutting proposals to shift services from the County Building in central Kinross could lead to the historic property being boarded up.If the proposal goes ahead services would be relocated to the new community campus – leading to fears over the future role to be played by the 19th Century landmark.
With Kinross Town Hall and the old High School already in a somewhat dilapidated state, the spectre of an other disused building in the town centre has caused consternation.The people of Kinross are extremely alarmed by what could happen to the building should the proposal go ahead.

Perth FM News 15/09/10

2010-09-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

New Contracts Secured for Vector Aerospace

Politicians have expressed delight after a raft of new contracts secured the future of previously under threat jobs at Vector Aerospace in Almondbank. The firm had revealed that a number of positions were at risk but last night said they had successfully agreed a "number" of crucial follow-on contracts.The former DARA site was sold to the Vector Aerospace Corporation in April 2008. Vector Aerospace’s components director Ian Burnett said "Following lengthy negotiations , we have been able to reach agreements with out customers that will keep this high quality engineering work at Almondbank for the foreseeable future".

Retail Freight Hub Pilot Scheme

A freight hub, for retailers in the area, is be created to cut traffic and polluting emissions. Perthshire traders will be able to use the Inveralmond Industrial Estate base to co-ordinate deliveries ensuring vehicles are used to capacity before hitting local roads. The centre will be used on a trial basis after being identified as the most cost effective option. The trial scheme would form part of a wider package of measures. Retailer participation would be voluntary and presentations will be made to local interested parties and stakeholders.

Taxpayers Bill for Civic Receptions

An investigation has revealed that tax payers have stumped up more than £137,000 for civic receptions in Perth and Kinross since 2005.Against the backdrop of an economic downturn,, council chiefs last night faced calls to ensure all future spending is "justifiable and proportionate". Figures revealed that that the vast majority of the total, £121,000 was spent on external events. The TaxPayer’s Alliance has branded some of the spending "insensitive".

Perth FM News 14/09/10

2010-09-14T08:21:00.000-07:00

Buildings at Cherrybank Gardens on Open Market

Buildings attached to the much-loved Cherrybank Gardens on the outskirts of Perth have been put on the market for sale.The move comes almost 30 months after the once cherished gardens closed to the public after the collapse of the ambitious Calyx project, to which they were linked. Talks remain ongoing on the gardens themselves and the important heather collection on the site. The buildings, which are wholly owned by Scotland’s Garden Trust have been placed on the market through Bidwells.

Murray Royal Hospital Redevelopment Causing Concerns

Local anger is growing over several issues concerning the Murray Royal Hospital redevelopment, it emerged yesterday. The project director for the main contractor on the site, Morgan Sindall, has agreed to attend the next meeting of the Bridgend Gannochy and Kinnoull Community Council to address community concerns. The community council’s vice chairwoman, Deirdre Beaton said. "There is a great deal of unhappiness and anger in the bridgend and Gannochy area about the noise, hours of work, traffic and ground levels relating to the development of the new Murray Royal Hospital". The meeting is to take place at the Gannochy Community Hall this Thursday at 7.30pm

Auchterarder Woman to Trek in Himalayas

An Auchterarder woman will celebrate her 50th Birthday trekking the worlds highest mountain range. Wilma Hutchison will spend the milestone battling blisters and altitude sickness in the "unforgiving" Himalayas after making the decisions to under take the 10 day challenge in memory of her mother who lost a long battle with Alzheimers’s in 2007. Wilma has already raise thousands of pounds for the Alzheimer’s Society and hope her journey will raise awareness of the disease which affects more than 500,000 people in the UK

Perth FM News 13/09/10

2010-09-13T07:56:00.000-07:00

Trading Standards Check Petrol Pumps

Trading Standards officers with Perth and Kinross Council recently carried out their annual week of petrol pump testing on retail forecourts throughout the area to check that pumps are delivering the correct mount of fuel to customers.All types of sites were visited – from busy motorway services to small rural petrol stations.In the majority of cases pumps were operating correctly. However some errors were found such as levels of delivery outside of the tolerance allowed by the law.

Council Proposal for Green Travel Plan
This week members of the strategic policy and resources committee will be asked to approve a Perth City Centre Council Staff Traffic Plan, which, if given the go ahead will be introduced later this year. The concept is to promote cycling, walking, use of public transport and lift shares for staff across the councils 4 main city sights.
It is estimated that the green travel plan will cost local council tax payers approximately £10,000 per year.

Perth Woman to Visit World Parkinsons Congress

A Perth woman is set to join leading scientists from across the globe at the second ever World Parkinson's Congress. Joy Milne who cares for her Parkinson suffering husband and is a committee member with the Perth Branch of Parkinson's UK. It is the first time the congress has come to the UK and it will be held in Glasgow at the end of September. The World Parkinson's Congress is aimed at everyone with an interest in Parkinsons from health care professionals and scientist to those with the condition and their carers.

Perth FM News 10/09/10

2010-09-10T10:18:00.000-07:00

Child Protection Campaign Updated

A successful child protection campaign is to be given an update with a series of new posters designed by local children.The poster campaign was originally launched two years ago by Perth and Kinross Child Protection Committee, and featured a series of designs by local schoolchildren, featuring the message: "It’s everyone’s responsibility to make sure children are safe from harm".A competition was recently held to find some new designs to give the campaign a fresh look, and the five winners (aged between 9-13) visited the Council’s Civic Lounge today to pick up their prizes and see their designs in poster form.Their posters will be seen in Council offices and public areas of the other organisations that make up the Child Protection Committee, such as Tayside Police, NHS Tayside, the Procurator Fiscal’s office and the Children’s Reporter. Voluntary organisations will also put them on display in offices.

Village to get First Official Walk

The historic Perthshire mill village of Stanely is to get its first official village walk.Work will begin early next month to create the £28,000 path which is the be named the Shiel Hill Walk. The circular track will stat on the Linn Road just down from Shielhill Farm and end on Mill street near its junction with King Street. It is described as a pleasant 20 to 30 minute stroll with a beautiful view point over the River Tay.

Businesses Tackle Recycling

A Business-Reuse Sector Seminar organised by Perth & Kinross Council is looking at recycling from the business angle - each time shop stock is not sold, each time a hotel or restaurant refurbishes, and each time lost property is left unclaimed, waste is inadvertently created, with a significant amount going to landfill.
The Perth and Kinross Network of Charity Shops and Reuse Projects is working with local businesses, supported by the Council, to find ways to divert these unwanted items from landfill and to instead ensure they can be reused as valuable stock for charity shops and reuse projects across Perth and Kinross. Representatives from Perth and Kinross businesses and the Network will meet up to discuss the reusable items that are most commonly disposed of and also those most welcomed by charity shops and reuse projects as well as volunteering opportunities and Donation Days.

Perth FM New 09/09/10

2010-09-09T08:50:00.000-07:00

Funding for Public Orchards

A little bit of rural bliss could be created in Perth with funding for a community orchard. Orchard 800 will commemorate the towns fruit growing heritage at the appropriately named Orchard Place in Craigie. It is part of a scheme to plant fruit tree on public sites in Perth and funding has been granted to several schools and local beauty spots. The orchard will be planted this winter and maintained by the South Perth Greenspace group. The Craigie site is though to be where Pitheavlis Castle’s original orchard once stood.

Perthshire Companies Reach for the Stars

Perthshire Companies are being urged to reach for the stars as the closing date approached for entries to the areas business awards. Perth Chamber of Commerce’s annual Business Star Awards recognise and reward local companies vying for a place in the spotlight.Businesses have a week to enter the nine categories with the aim of being named Perthshire business of the year. Chamber president Paul shields urged businesses to enter. He said "To be judged the best in the business that you do is a real boost for any organisation especially in these difficult times".

Moothill Site Dated

Archaeologists studying the famous Moothill in the grounds of Scone Palace, where ancient Scottish kings were crowned, have for the first time pinpointed the origins of the ancient inauguration mound using scientific laboratory analysis. The new discoveries came from radiocarbon dating of samples retrieved during excavations of a massive ditch which once surrounded the Moothill. The tests indicate that the mound was created over a 1000 years ago, meaning that the quarry ditch for the Moothill was completed shortly before the late-9th to early 11th century AD.
The new discoveries have been made possible by an archaeological research project led by Dr Oliver JT O’Grady, which since 2005 has aimed to find out more about the origins and development of Scone.

Perth FM News 08/09/10

2010-09-08T07:55:00.000-07:00

Kerbside Recycling Survey

Council Tax Payers in Kinross are being asked if they would be willing to pay for an extra garden and food waste bin. Over the summer brown-lidded bins became a controversial issue after local residents acted angrily to the councils decision to limit their collections. The local authority reached it’s capacity in its ability to deal with the garden rubbish and food scarps after rolling out a recycling scheme to scale back the amount of waste going into landfill. This lead to only one brown-lidded bin being collected per household and over 100 complaints to the council.
All residents are now being invited to take part in an online survey about kerbside recycling collection scheme for mixed food and garden waste

Park World Tour in Perth

Perth city centre will be used as an urban orienteering course this weekend when the prestigious Park World Tour event comes to the city as part of the Perth 800 celebrations. Participants from 17 nations, including some of the world's top orienteers, will rub shoulders with shoppers during the unique spectator-friendly event. World champion Helena Jansson and former European silver medallist Martins Sirmais will be amongst the athletes racing through the streets of Perth competing for a share of the €5000 prize fund. The PWT is classed as a sprint orienteering race, where competitors run round a set course finding controls by navigating the quickest possible route. Alongside invited athletes, domestic athletes will be given the chance to pit themselves against some of the world’s best. Those fast enough will be given places in the final and the chance to win a share of the prize money.

HMRC Scotland Free Workshops

Employers were given expert advice on how best to weather the recession during a series of free workshops in Perth yesterday. Subjects including VAT, employment law, National Insurance and importing and exporting were covered at the HM Revenue and Customs event at the Dewars Centre.In addition, Business Gateway, the Advisory, Concilliation and Arbitration Services and the Health and Safety Executive all had stands. Dorothy McGill, external focus manager for HMRC Scotland, said, "These events allow us to bring our advice directly to the local community and offer practical assistance where it’s needed".

Perth FM News 07/09/10

2010-09-07T08:26:00.000-07:00

Police Witness Appeal

Police in Perth are appealing for witnesses after a 38 year old male was assaulted and robbed in South Methven Street, opposite Apollo Blinds.
The incident took place between 11pm and midnight on Saturday 4th September.
The victim, who was punched and robbed of two items of jewellery, suffered slight injuries during the attack.
It is possible that two other males and a female were in the area when the incident occurred and per police are keen to trace these individuals.

Smokers Warned of Hidden Costs

Smokers in Perth were reminded yesterday of a possible hidden cost of their habit – a hefty fine if caught dropping cigarette butts in the street.
According to Keep Scotland Beautiful, although these items make up 75% of street litter dropped across the country, there is still a misconception that they are not classed as litter.
However, dropping cigarette butts in the street is still littering and can lead to affixed penalty notice of £50 being issued.
Smokers are being urged to make use of the ashtrays mounted on walls outside most pubs and restaurants and on the top of many litter bins.

Connect2 Consultation

More than 500 members of the public have taken the opportunity to let Perth & Kinross Council know which design they would prefer for a proposed pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Tay.
For the last three weeks the Council has been inviting views on two designs created for the bridge intended to span the river from the North Inch to Isla Road at Upper Springlands. Feedback from the consultation will help inform the decision on which design will go forward to the planning process.
The consultation has now closed and the Council will make a decision on the chosen design, based on the feedback from the consultation. This will be communicated on the Council's website and in the local media. Proposed plans, based on the chosen design, will then go forward to the planning process.
Members of the public will also be involved in some future decisions, such as the naming of the bridge as the project progresses.

Perth FM News 06/09/10

2010-09-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

Rural Child Hood Centre to Open

The Centre for Rural Childhood, a Research Centre engaged in the promotion of children’s human rights will officially open at Perth College UHI on Wednesday
The Centre is part of UHI, the prospective University of the Highlands and Islands, and its mission is to focus on childhood-related issues through a rural lens and tackle issues relating to the rights of children and young people in Scotland and globally, enabling them to be safe, heard and treated fairly and equally
The launch programme is designed to provide a snapshot of the work currently undertaken by the Centre and to engage with current and future stakeholders by initiating discussions on issues that the Centre may work on in the future.
The Director of the Centre for Rural Childhood, Professor Rebecca M. M. Wallace explained: 'The launch will allow us to raise the profile of the Centre and its work, to tell the story of where the Centre has come from and where it is going.'

Retail Academy Opens

The new initiative to help people looking for work in the retail sector in Perth and Kinross and local employers seeking new staff has been launched today in Perth City Centre. The Retail Academy is based in the former Jessops premises on the High Street and provides a hub for businesses to match up with prospective employees for both jobs and training opportunities. To date 12 local employers have committed to the initiative, and over 100 vacancies have been sourced in time for the opening today. 30 training places have also been firmed up, with the first 15 of these anticipated to start on Monday. The Retail Academy is taking a partnership approach to working with firms to recruit new staff. This approach will continue during the run-up to the busy Christmas period when many businesses are looking to take on additional employees.

Pitlochry Development Proposals

The people of Pitlochry turned out in force at the weekend to assess proposal for development of their town centre.Faced with plans for a motel complex and mini supermarket, locals have pushed for the planning authority to have an alternative vision when making any decisions.Two proposals were presented by graduates from Glasgow’s Mackintosh School of Architecture both of which were 'in keeping with the town’s natural beauty and attractiveness to tourists'. All of those who attended the meeting were provided with a survey the results of which will be analysed by the pitlochry conservation society and made public.

Perth FM News 03/09/10

2010-09-03T09:45:00.000-07:00

Local Fire Investigation

Investigations are under way after a former government building went up in flames last night.
Fire crews were called to the former Agriculture and Fisheries offices on Jeanfield road shortly after 8pm, after a member of the public reported seeing smoke billowing from a first floor window.
The detached 3 storey Victorian building has lain emptyr for a number of years and local people have reported seeing youths meeting at the entrance.
A spokes person for Tayside fire and rescue said that the first floor of Jeanfield house was well alight by the time the crews arrived. The fire was quickly brought under control but appliances remained at the scene until the area was safe.

Wind Farm Fight Costly

The cost of fighting the spread of wind farms in Perth and Kinross is said to be approaching £1 million pounds.
In all 13 wind farms have so far been proposed and then rejected by the council, which believes they could significantly damage the areas renowned landscape.
The opposition has had little support form the Scottish Government, however, and Ministers have decided against local feeling in five cases after appeals by 'green power'developers.
Figures show that the local authority and the taxpayer have been hit with this massive bill for daring to oppose the unwanted schemes.

Art Exhibition on the Move

Perthshire Photographic society’s exhibition Perth And Kinross today is moving to the Birnam Arts, Community and Conference Centre.
The exhibition, which enjoyed a successful run at the Perth concert hall, will be open to the public tomorrow.
Due to the large number of exhibits it is not possible to show all the work at one time so the exhibition will be change over part way through to give all members the opportunity to show their work.

PerthFM News 02/09/10

2010-09-02T09:01:00.000-07:00

Tourism Increase Targets

Members of the enterprise and infrastructure committee have heard how the local authority plans to 'sharpen' the focus on the local tourism industry and get 'right people' involved.

Tourism in Perthshire is currently worth 400 millions pounds and employs 10,000 people, with a bid being made to increase this by 50% over the next five years.

Enterprise Convenor councillor John Kellis says that if Perthshire becomes successful in this then it is also a success for Scotland.

Proposed Parking Charges

While plans to introduce charges for parking on the streets surrounding Perth royal infirmary were welcomed yesterday, councillors have agreed that it is a solution that some people will find hard to accept.

Despite the introduction of the Ninewells bus link, the parking in and around the hospital is still an issue.

It was agreed that collaboration between the council and the local health board was needed.

A proposal to hold a public consultation to allow locals to have their say on the issue has been approved.

Young Riders Strike Gold

Two young horse riders from dunning struck gold at the weekend as they took part in a top endurance competition in northeast Scotland.

Fionnghula and Iain Paterson triumphed in their respective categories at the Home International and Celtic Challenge and endurance event.

Their mother Seonaid said that it is a huge achievement for two children to do so well at international level in what is basically an adult sport.

Perth FM News 31/08/10

2010-08-31T08:57:00.000-07:00

Perth and Kinross making poor progress says Shelter

Shelter Scotland today said Perth and Kinross Council is making poor progress towards meeting the 2012 commitment to end homelessness. The Scottish Government’s latest homelessness statistics reveal today the Council is failing to deliver, and is not making enough progress towards the commitment Perth and Kinross Council is one of seven councils who are failing to deliver. Graeme Brown, Director of Shelter Scotland, says that with only two years to go, the council needs to do more to meet this challenge.

New target set for tourism
A revised tourism partnership is to be launched later this week. Tourism is a key sector of the local economy generating over 400 million pounds a year. Perth and Kinross aims to grow the local tourism sector by 50% over the next 5 years. Enterprise and Infrastructure Committee Convenor John Kelly has stressed the importance of striving for an improvement in the industry.

Perth Music Festival to start

Perth Music Festival starts this Thursday at nine licensed venues around the city.
The festival provides a showcase for local bands and admission to all venues will be free. The Festival starts at 8pm on Thursday evening and runs until Sunday night.
Events Coordinator Sam Hume advised that a total of 29 bands will be playing during the festival so there should be something to suit everyone.

PerthFM News 30/08/10

2010-08-30T05:25:00.000-07:00

Local Planning Application Rejected

A local building firm has had its bid to create a childfree housing development rejected by the Scottish Government. GS Brown appealed a decision by Perth and Kinross Council rejecting the proposal to build a 22 home complex at bridge of earn. The complex was to be occupied purely by resident's aged 55 and over.
The application had originally been rejected due to its request for significantly more housing than had been originally envisaged.

Council Plan For Severe Winter Weather

Following on from last winter – the most severe the area has seen in 3 decades. Perth and Kinross Council is already making operational plans for this winter.
At a meeting this week they will discuss this winters maintenance services for local roads and footways. The revenue budget for this winters service operations has been set at almost 2.8 million pounds. The meeting will outline the proposals for priority routes, periods of cover and treatment times.

Saints Player Given All Clear after Injury

Saint Johnstone casualty Murray Davidson has been given the all clear after his injury scare against Rangers at Ibrox on Saturday the club have advised that he will not be fit enough for the Scotland U21s squad this weekend. Boss Derek McInnes spoke about Saturday’s game.

Perth FM News - 27th August 2010

2010-08-27T08:16:00.000-07:00

Hotel fire drama in Perth

The centre of Perth saw fire drama last night as a blaze broke out on the first floor of the Grampian Hotel. Shortly after 10 o'clock last night, emergency services rushed to the hotel on York Place. The street was cordoned off as fire-fighters tackled the flames and searched each room to check it was empty. Within an hour the flames were extinguished and all guests and staff accounted for.

Proposed parking changes near PRI

Councillors will next week be discussing changing parking restrictions around Perth Royal Infirmary. The proposed changes are in response to complaints about inconsiderate parking from residents who live near to the hospital. With huge pressure on capacity for parking at PRI, staff and visitors have found themselves parking in the surrounding streets. Despite altering bus routes and introducing park and ride from Broxden to PRI, complaints are still being received. The results of an informal consultation have shown residents would like to see waiting restrictions put in place.

Rattray housing estate plans lodged

Plans for a large housing estate in Rattray have been lodged by an Elgin based firm. Springfield properties wants to build 88 homes at a site north of the town's High Street. Similar plans were rejected three years ago. As well as housing and community space, the site will also include 184 parking spaces.

Perth FM News - 26th August 2010

2010-08-26T08:28:00.000-07:00

Police appeal for poison information

Tayside Police are appealing for information after it was discovered red kite had been poisoned. The bird was found in Strathtay, near Aberfeldy in July and tests were carried out in Edinburgh. Over the past 15 years, Police have recovered several animals and birds, including a household cat, all of which had been poisoned, in the same area. 12 poisoned baits have also been recovered. Wildlife crime officer, Alan Stewart says poisoning is decreasing but there are still a number of 'hotspots' blighting Perthshire's reputation.

School closure appraisals to take place

Decisions on the possible closure of four Perthshire schools could be taken in the next few months. A 'detailed appraisal' is to take place, looking at the viability of the four rural school. Convenor of the Lifelong Learning Committee, Liz Grant said although closure may be considered, it is not something that is on the table yet. The schools at Struan, Strone of Cally, Straloch and Logiealmond are currently running well under their capacity.

Lorry driver banned after bridge smash

A lorry driver who smashed into a Perth railway bridge has been banned from driving for 18 months. James Jarvis admitted that he was driving while twice the legal limit last month when the incident happened. He had failed to notice that the bridge was too low for the truck, despite warning signs on the approach and the high visibility chevrons. Mr Jarvis has now been ordered to carry out the maximum 240 hours community service as well as being banned from the road.

Perth FM News - 25th August 2010

2010-08-25T03:24:00.000-07:00

Police warn over knives

Following the conviction of David Barker for the murder of Robbie Thomson in Coupar Angus, Police have issued a warning to those who carry knives. Detective Inspector Greig Steele says carrying a knife does not make you invincible. He has warned that those who do could become murderers themselves. Knife culture in Perth and Kinross appears to be on the rise, with those convicted of carrying having doubled in the last few years.

Rail disruptions condemned by MSP

Disruptions to key Perthshire train services have been 'condemned' by a local politician. Following reports of stranded rail passengers at Blair Atholl, MSP Murdo Fraser has written to the Managing Director of First Scotland to express his dismay. Changes of service appear to have taken place with little or no notice, leaving tourists and locals in some instances with no means of travel. Mr Fraser is now demanding that improvements are made to services and that contingency plans should be created.

Scheme helps workers stay fit

Local businesses and employed are being offered free access to a range of specialist work health services. The new initiative is being rolled out in Perth and Kinross to tackle ill-health in the workplace. The project was launched in Dundee two years ago and is to now be extended to other parts of Tayside. The service will be able to offer help with common health problems such as back pain and skin conditions.

Perth FM News - 24th August 2010

2010-08-24T08:37:00.000-07:00

Guilty of teenager's murder

After two weeks of evidence, a Coupar Angus man was found guilt of the murder of teenager Robbie Thomson. David Barker is said to have stabbed his victim 11 times before throwing him in a burn last year. The verdict was unanimous and sentencing has been deferred until the 22nd of September. Police in Perth and Kinross have said one death is one too many, and will continue to tackle the problem of violent crime.

Businesses encouraged to use local produce

Tourism business in Perth and Kinross are being encouraged to use more locally sourced produce. A new initiative to develop a 'Perthshire breakfast' is being targeted at bed and breakfasts, guest houses, hotels and restaurants. The scheme encourages that businesses keep their regular food choices but use a higher proportion of local products. It's hoped the project will strengthen the ties between tourism and food producers.

Delays expected as work begins on motorway

Motorists are being warned of possible disruptions as Transport Scotland announce 180 thousand pound motorway upgrades near Perth. Lane closures and diversions will be in operation as the M90 is resurfaced by Junction 9. Work begins today and should finish in early September. The section of road is used by over 17 thousand vehicles every day.

Perth FM News - 23rd August 2010

2010-08-23T08:51:00.000-07:00

A9 accident - no one seriously injured

A stretch of the A9 has been closed this afternoon following a collision. The incident took place shortly after 1 o'clock on a southbound part of the road near Ballinluig. No one has been seriously injured in the collision. Though the road has been down to one lane for part of the day it was expected that the road would be fully opened again late on in the afternoon.

Possible school closures anger Torys

The possibility of school closures in Perth and Kinross has angered opposition councillors. Reports going to the Lifelong Learning committee this week details 4 rural schools where appraisals must be carried out to assess their futures. As a programme providing free school breakfasts launches, Councillor Barbara Vaughn says priorities are all wrong.

100,000 Class A drugs haul in Perth

Friday night saw Drugs Officers seize over 100 thousand pounds worth of drugs in Perth. The Class A drugs haul was discovered as the result of a vehicle check. A couple from Liverpool were arrested and were expected to appear at Perth Sheriff Court today. Head of Tayside Police Drugs Branch, Detective Inspector Stuart Holmes hopes the seizure can reassure the public of the Forces' commitment to making communities safe.

2010-08-20T08:10:00.000-07:00

50 percent increase in break-ins

New figures showing a near 50 percent rise in break ins around Tayside has caused concern for members of the Joint Police Board. Councillors will be meeting on Monday to discuss the new reports from Tayside Police. Councillor Alexander Stewart is a member of the Board, and he says something needs to be done to tackle the problem

Councillors to be updated on housing

Councillors are to be updated next week on the affordable housing building programme.The council current plans include 81 affordable housing units across Perth and Kinross. A successful bid for 2 million pounds from the Scottish Government is to assist with delivering the new homes. The total cost is to be over 10 million pounds, with the council making up the fund using the Council Tax Fund on Second Homes and prudential borrowing.

Higher uptake of school meals

New school meal options in Perth and Kinross have seen an increase. Thanks to pupil feedback, services have been able to meet what they consider priorities while still adhering to health improvement legislation. Increased menu choices have now led to a greater uptake. All secondary schools and in particular, new community campuses have all shown success.