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Action Packed weekend for Sharks Against Wildcats and Pitbulls

Action Packed weekend for Sharks Against Wildcats and Pitbulls

Swindon Wildcats vs Solway Sharks 07.12.24

The Dynamic property services Solway Sharks travelled South on Saturday evening to face Swindon Wildcats for their first game of a double road-game weekend but failed to post a marker on the scoresheet which saw the hosts claim a 3-0 victory.

The Sharks travelled with 14+2, missing key forwards #9 Mason Alderson and #21 Torran Anderson through injury, whilst #68 Callum Boyd and #30 Calum Hepburn were unable to travel leaving Solway with an uphill battle from the offset. Meanwhile, Swindon lined up with 18+2 and opted to start #30 Renny Marr, which saw a battle of the brothers in net as #33 Jordan Marr guarded the opposite pipes.

1st period –

Sharks started the period with possession and fired a series of shots on Marr, but he soaked up the pressure to deny an early lead for the visitors. Momentum shifted after the Wildcats applied the forechecking pressure, which forced #12 Kell Beattie to sit the first penalty of the evening at 7:29 for tripping. Despite Wildcats having one of the most effective PP units, the Sharks prevented Swindon claiming the opening goal.

However, after consistent pressure from Swindon’s first line, Head Coach #19 Aaron Nell capitalised on the rebound from #3 Balint Pakozdi’s initial shot at 12:45 to give the hosts an advantage. The Wildcats looked to claw a 2nd strike in quick succession, but a strong defensive performance from the Sharks was enough to break down Swindon’s chances and keep Solway just a goal away from equalising the scoreline looking ahead to the 2nd period.

2nd period –

Both sides returned for the middle frame eager to contribute to the scoreboard, yet both Marr brothers made the stops down either ends down the ice. Solway gave the Wildcats another advantage at 26:33 as #49 Liam Danskin was called for holding, but another strong PK unit denied the Swindon offence. The Sharks continued to work chances on Marr, although he matched their efforts to retain his shutout so far.

Tensions rose during the 2nd period, which resulted in #63 Joe Coulter eventually sit for roughing at 31:11 putting the Sharks at risk of conceding once again. It was third time lucky for the Wildcats on the PP after #72 Glenn Billing fired a one-timer from the crease past Marr from #3 Balint Pakozdi and #71 Edgars Bebris at 32:44 to double Swindon’s lead. Solway continue to create chances, but their final shots failed to find a way past Marr for the remainder of the 2nd period, seeing Swindon take a 2-0 advantage into the final frame.

3rd period –

Swindon quickly extended their lead to 3 goals in the opening minutes of the 3rd period after #26 Jake Bricknell cleaned up the loose change off his initial breakaway strike at 41:03, assisted by #71 Edgars Bebris. Moments later, goal-scorer #72 Glenn Billing was handed a tripping penalty at 41:23, putting Solway on their first powerplay opportunity of the evening. Despite multiple efforts from the Sharks forwards, Marr stood strong for the hosts and prevented Solway reducing the deficit through the extra skater.

Swindon continued to dominate for the remainder of the period, yet the Sharks fired multiple attempts on Marr in hopes of a consolation goal. Solway landed themselves on a 3on5 penalty kill for 90 seconds in the closing minutes as both #43 Nolan Gardiner and #5 Olivier Arseneau sat for holding at 57:12 and 57:42 respectively. However, a strong shift for the PK units denied the Wildcats a 4th marker before the buzzer sounded.

MVPs were awarded to Solway’s #12 Kell Beattie for a strong performance in both zones. Meanwhile, #30 Renny Marr claimed the title for Swindon after his shut-out performance against his brother’s side.

STATS –

Swindon Wildcats: Aaron Nell 1+0, Glenn Billing 1+0, Jake Bricknell 1+0, Balint Pakozdi 0+2, Edgars Bebris 0+2, Tomasz Malasinski 0+1, Chris Jones 0+1

 

Bristol Pitbulls vs Solway Sharks 08.12.24

The Dynamic property services Solway Sharks completed their weekend of road games with a thrilling 4-5 overtime victory against the Bristol Pitbulls in the Pound on Sunday evening, featuring a stellar performance from #22 John Dunbar.

The Sharks travelled with 14+2, the same squad as the previous evening in Swindon, still missing key forwards #9 Mason Alderson and #21 Torran Anderson through injury, whilst #68 Callum Boyd and #30 Calum Hepburn were unable to travel. Meanwhile, Bristol faced challenges of their own, lining up also with 14+2 as their top points scorer #52 Nick Pryce was sidelined due to injury and #59 Ewan Hill was struck with illness. Solway opted for regular starter #33 Jordan Marr, whilst #33 Tommy Nappier got the nod between the pipes for Bristol.

1st period –

Sharks won the initial face-off and maintained puck possession, controlling the tempo of play early through Stenton and Beattie. Solway created multiple chances, eager to take the edge, but Nappier made the difference for Bristol who struggled to find their way in the opening minutes. However, Pitbulls Captain #24 Tanner Butler claimed a wraparound goal against the run of play at 12:44 to give the hosts the lead.

Solway then gave away the first penalty of the evening after #12 Kell Beattie was called for cross-checking at 15:46. However, just 5 seconds later the penalty was cancelled out as #77 Bayley Harewood sat for the same offence. Neither side could capitalise through 4on4 play and the score remained 1-0 in favour to the hosts after the opening 20 minutes of play.

2nd period –

Sharks set out to equalise early and did just that through #22 John Dunbar who fired the puck past Nappier through traffic after a scramble in the crease, assisted by #43 Nolan Gardiner at 20:50. Both sides battled to claim an edge, resulting in #53 Kian Shevlin sit for unsportsmanlike conduct at 26:02 after breaking through the zone and firing on Nappier from the right wing. Within the same minute, #77 Bayley Harewood fired a tight angle shot onto Marr which found its way across the line, assisted by #24 Butler at 26:31 on the powerplay.

Sharks looked to level the score again through both their offence and defence, but Nappier matched their efforts to retain the lead for Bristol. Tensions rose between the defensive units, resulting in both #5 Olivier Arseneau and #73 Sam Smith sit for roughing, whilst the Pitbulls defender was also called for holding putting Solway on the PP.

Despite being a player down, #77 Bayley Harewood claimed his 2nd of the evening for Bristol with a SH marker from close range on Marr, assisted by #23 White-Sey and #9 Bari McKenzie at 35:51 to extend the Pitbulls’ lead to 3-1. However, the extension was short lived as #22 John Dunbar hit the backbar to answer back for the Sharks via #43 Nolan Gardiner and #6 Stuart Kerr at 37:35. Just 32 seconds later, Solway’s top goal scorer #43 Nolan Gardiner fired the puck top shelf past Nappier, assisted by #22 John Dunbar and #25 Connor Henderson at 38:07 to level the score 3-3.

Discipline slipped for the Pitbulls in the closing moments of the middle frame, as Captain #24 Tanner Butler headed back to the changing rooms early at 39:55 after receiving 5+game penalty for a check to the head.

3rd period –

Although Solway started the final period with a man advantage during Butler’s major penalty, the Sharks failed to punish the hosts who returned to full strength without conceding. However, after consistent pressure, #22 John Dunbar claimed his hat-trick goal at 47:37 after catching Nappier off-guard to put Solway ahead for the first time.

The Sharks handed Bristol a chance to equalise as #53 Kian Shevlin was handed a hooking penalty at 51:37 but a strong PK unit for the Solway kept their advantage intact. The visitors kept control of the puck heading into the closing minutes, however a poke check by #6 Rhys Smetham allowed him a breakaway chance on Marr, sending the puck low into the bottom right corner to tie the scoreline at 56:32 unassisted.

Both sides threw everything they had into the closing minutes of the period in an effort to grab maximum points, but neither were successful, forcing the game into 3on3 overtime.

Solway sent out Canadian imports #22 Dunbar and #43 Gardiner, with the addition of Captain #10 Stenton for the initial overtime face-off, who claimed puck possession instantly. Sharks D-man #5 Olivier Arseneau worked multiple chances in close on Nappier, but it was #22 John Dunbar who rifled the puck across the line on the rebound to seal an all-important bonus point for Solway and clench his 4th marker of the evening.

MVPs were awarded to Solway’s #22 John Dunbar after his 5-point performance and involvement on all 5 goals, including claiming the game winner. Meanwhile, #6 Rhys Smetham received the title for Bristol after his strike which allowed Pitbulls to push the game into extra time.

STATS –

Solway Sharks: John Dunbar 4+1, Nolan Gardiner 1+3, Connor Henderson 0+2, Stuart Kerr 0+1, Liam Stenton 0+1, Olivier Arseneau 0+1

Bristol Pitbulls: Bayley Harewood 2+1, Tanner Butler 1+1, Rhys Smetham 1+1, Bari McKenzie 0+2, Jacob White-Sey 0+2, Cameron Hamill 0+1

Canadian import forward and Head of Hockey Operations, John Dunbar had this to say regarding the weekends results,

“Saturday brought a challenging start to the weekend against a strong Swindon team in a tough environment. It’s no secret that we’ve been playing shorthanded for a few weeks, and I think that fatigue was evident in Saturday’s performance. However, Sunday showcased our resilience and character as a team, as we fought hard for a gritty road win against a determined Bristol squad.”

 

The Sharks are back on home ice this weekend for an exciting double-header against the Berkshire Bees. These games mark the second and third meetings between the teams, with the Sharks eager to bounce back and claim redemption after falling short in their initial encounter.

The first game kicks off on Saturday, Dec. 14, with doors opening at 5:30 PM and puck drop at 7:00 PM. The action continues on Sunday, Dec. 15, with doors opening at 3:30 PM and puck drop at 5:00 PM.

Saturday’s game will also feature the Sharks’ annual ‘Hurl-A-Hug’ event. Fans are encouraged to bring a new teddy bear wrapped in a clear plastic bag to toss onto the ice after the Sharks score their first goal. Don’t worry if you forget—teddy bears will be available for purchase at the merch stand on game day.

Tickets are available now at the Sharks IHC website (https://sharksihc.com/tickets/) or in person at the Dumfries Ice Bowl. Don’t miss this weekend of thrilling hockey action and community spirit!

 

Article written by Fleur Tobin

NHS Dumfries and Galloway intent on tackling medicines waste

  • Waste medicines costing NHS DG more than £1 million each year
  • Unused medicines issued to patients have to be destroyed
  • Waste medicines harming the environment
  • Call to patients to help cut down the waste

 

MEDICINES waste in Dumfries and Galloway is costing more than £1 million each year and harming the environment, but local NHS leaders are taking steps to tackle the issue.

 

At a workshop, healthcare professionals from across the region gathered to confront the problem head-on.

 

Experts painted a stark picture of the damage caused by unused prescriptions, while also outlining innovative solutions to make prescribing safer, greener, and more effective.

 

A Million Pound Problem

 

Every year, unused medicines in Dumfries and Galloway is estimated to cost the NHS in excess of £1 million, with many of these drugs incinerated at additional environmental expense.

 

Interim Director of Pharmacy Gordon Loughran opened the workshop by underscoring the urgency of the problem.

 

Mr Loughran said: “Medicines are essential to healthcare, but the waste is staggering.

 

“Whether it’s unused prescriptions piling up in homes or the environmental impact of disposal, we need to do better.”

 

NHS Dumfries and Galloway also faces rising challenges from polypharmacy, where patients are prescribed multiple medications.

 

Nearly 40 per cent of residents over 75 take five or more drugs daily, often leading to unwelcome side effects, poor adherence, and waste.

 

Patients Feeling the Burden

Deputy Medical Director Dr Grecy Bell shared that one in five patients feels overwhelmed by their medicines, with some prescriptions doing more harm than good.

 

Consultant Geriatrician Dr Amy Connelly illustrated the human cost with the story of a local care home resident whose long list of medications left him dizzy, confused, and immobile. After a thorough review, unnecessary drugs were stopped, transforming his quality of life.

 

Dr Connelly said: “This isn’t just about saving money – it’s about helping patients and giving them back more control.”

 

Environmental Crisis

 

Medicines waste isn’t just a financial and clinical issue – it’s also an environmental concern.

 

Clinical Pharmacist Dr Emily Kennedy highlighted that the incineration of pharmaceutical waste in Dumfries and Galloway releases thousands of kilograms of CO₂ every year, with inhalers alone accounting for 4 per cent of the NHS’s carbon footprint.

 

Improper disposal of medicines is also contaminating local water supplies, prompting calls for unused medications to be returned.

 

Dr Kennedy pointed to international studies showing pharmaceutical compounds harming wildlife and aquatic ecosystems.

 

Innovative Solutions

 

The workshop wasn’t all grim statistics, though. Attendees explored practical steps to address the problem, including:

 

  • Medication Reviews: Regular reviews in care homes to stop unnecessary prescriptions. Studies show that up to 50 per cent of care home residents are prescribed inappropriate drugs.

 

  • “Only Order What You Need” Campaigns: Similar initiatives elsewhere have saved over £475,000 in costs and reduced CO₂ emissions by 294 tonnes.

 

  • Recycling Medicines: While current rules require unused drugs to be destroyed, participants noted discussions have taken place around ways which might safely reintroduce unopened medications back into the supply chain.

 

Breaking Down Barriers

 

Workshop attendees broke into small groups to brainstorm other ideas.

 

Suggestions included improving patient education to reduce over-ordering and creating better systems for monitoring prescription use.

 

Mr Loughran said: “Ultimately, it’s a high volume of people being unwell in our region which drives the demand for medicines.
“And as part of the answer, we also need to be encouraging and supporting people to live healthier lives where possible, helping to reduce the need for medication.”
He added: “What’s apparent is that the solutions are there. Now it’s about turning ideas into action and working together to make a real difference.”

 

Next Steps

 

Insights from the workshop will feed into a Medicines Waste Implementation Plan, setting out practical actions for Dumfries and Galloway.

 

NHS leaders aim to roll out these initiatives over the coming months, with a focus on collaboration across primary, secondary and community care.

 

The move comes at a critical time, as the NHS faces increasing pressure to cut costs and reduce its carbon footprint.

 

Dr Kennedy said: “This is a challenge we can’t ignore. By prescribing smarter, reducing waste, and protecting our planet, we can create a healthcare system that truly works for everyone.”

 

What You Can Do

 

NHS Dumfries and Galloway is urging patients to do their part by ordering only the medicines they need, returning unused medications to pharmacies to be destroyed.

 

They are encouraged to inform the GP practice if no longer taking or needing a medication, and to attend regular medication reviews with the GP practice team.

 

Local agencies offer ‘Winter Warmth’ support

Local agencies offer ‘Winter Warmth’ support
Nick Hopkins, Chair of Tackling Poverty and Inequalities Partnership

AS TEMPERATURES fall and energy prices increase, a new campaign is aiming to help keep people in the region keep warm this winter.

 

The Dumfries and Galloway Winter Warmth Campaign brings together a coalition of local organisations to tackle one of the region’s most pressing issues – fuel poverty.

 

Nick Hopkins is Chair of Tackling Poverty and Inequalities Partnership, and he said: “For some families, it’s a heartbreaking choice between heating and eating. Others are panicked about what their next bill might bring.
“No one in Dumfries and Galloway should have to face that choice or that worry.
“I’m very pleased to say that a strong coalition of local agencies has been established to promote awareness of the support that is available.
“It’s very important that everyone is made aware of the support and advice which is available, ranging from helping with energy bills to identifying grants, energy vouchers and free solid fuel, and that they understand that they don’t need to face these challenges on their own, so they can afford to heat their home.”

 

Fighting Fuel Poverty

 

Dumfries and Galloway has one of the highest rates of fuel poverty in Scotland, with over a third of households affected.

 

This is driven by a combination of cold rural temperatures, off-grid homes, and high levels of poverty.

 

To combat this, the campaign offers practical advice, financial assistance, and direct help.

 

Residents can access resources through the Cost-of-Living website www.costofliving.dumgal.gov.uk  which now includes a Winter Warmth section.

 

Nick said: “We’ve included tips on keeping homes warm affordably, advice for older people and those with health conditions, and information on where to turn for energy support.”

 

Help Is Available

 

The campaign is backed by several local organisations – Lemon Aid, Dumfries and Galloway Citizen’s Advice Service, Home Energy Scotland, Social Security Scotland, Dumfries and Galloway Council, DG Handy Van Project, Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway and Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership.

 

A range of support available from partners can include:

 

  • Dealing with billing issues and energy suppliers on their behalf.
  • Providing advice to get them back on supply if they’ve cut themselves off.
  • Sorting out fuel debts.
  • Helping them save energy, including by accessing grants for home improvements.
  • Providing direct help with energy vouchers and even access to free solid fuel.
  • Offering benefit checks and help with benefit applications to get them their due.

 

Details on who can provide this help are available from the website https://costofliving.dumgal.gov.uk/ Contact details for services are featured on the webpage and in newly created leaflets.

 

Nick said: “For anyone feeling overwhelmed, these organisations are here to help, whether it’s sorting out a bill or accessing a grant.”

 

The Dumfries and Galloway Tackling Poverty and Inequalities Partnership is working to reduce poverty across the region.

 

Nick added: “Our work on this and beyond is about more than getting through this winter — it’s about building resilience.”

 

A launch video featuring Citrus Energy Organisational Manager (Lemon Aid) Paul Clark is now being promoted by the agencies on social media, and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/ON9oOTdCrmA

School pupils get insight into hospital’s roles

School pupils get insight into hospital’s roles at DGRI

SCHOOL pupils from a Dumfries primary spent a busy morning at Midpark Hospital engaged in a range of activities – and helping to turn on its Christmas lights.

 

The 22 enthusiastic pupils from Brownhall Primary visited the mental health hospital as part of their studies looking at different professions.

 

Senior Charge Nurse on Cree Ward Eilidh Dickson said: “We had an absolutely fantastic morning, with the pupils getting to try out a wide range of therapeutic activities of the same kind staff employ with patients at Midpark.
“Pupils got to try out African drumming, collaborated with occupational therapists on craft projects, and tested their skills with physiotherapy exercises such as balancing on balls and stretching with bands.
“The youngsters also got to try out their reflexes by seeing how quickly they could turn off the lights on the light-up reaction wall.
“They also got a chance to look the part, by donning some of our authentic healthcare uniforms.”

The visit came after Brownhall Primary recently took part in ‘Scottish Careers Week’, which saw the children learn about developing their skills for learning, life and work. During the course of the week they visited Dumfries and Galloway College to see the courses on offer and many other visitors came into the school to share their roles as an electrician, police constable, Usual Place staff, careers advisor and NHS nurse.

 

Pupils also recently contributed to International Nurses Day, creating a range of colourful posters which hang in the main reception at Midpark Hospital.

 

And that was the setting for the end of the visit, when the pupils gathered round to help finish decorating the large Christmas tree which sits at the entrance.

 

Joined by staff, the pupils then turned on the tree’s lights to help mark the start of the festive period.

 

Brownhall Primary Head Teacher Mrs Scriven said: “The visit to Midpark Hospital not only consolidated the work we have been doing with NHS, as we took part in the ‘National Nurses Day’ competition, but it continued to give the children the opportunity to learn about the work and jobs that can be carried out in a hospital.
“The staff at Midpark were amazing as they warmly welcomed us to share the different roles that they all have at the hospital.
“The children joined in many ‘hands on’ tasks as they toured the different areas and the staff were very impressed by their enthusiasm and interest as they asked lots of good questions.
“Brownhall teachers were absolutely delighted with the visit and felt that the staff shared so much more than just a tour of the building. The team gave an insight to the variety of roles and important jobs that they have to offer when supporting local people in their care.”

Mrs Scriven and Senior Charge Nurse Eilidh Dickson agree that there is more work in partnership that can be planned to develop inter-generational working between Brownhall Primary and Cree Ward at Midpark Hospital.

 

Eilidh said: “It was a joy to have the Brownhall Primary pupils visit Midpark Hospital. Their energy and curiosity reminded us of the importance of fostering connections between healthcare and the community. We hope the day inspired them to consider the many rewarding roles within health and social care.
“Their artwork has truly brightened our space, and their presence brought an early dose of festive cheer to everyone here.”

 

Body found in Solway Estuary, Cummertrees, Annan.

Body found in Solway Estuary, Cummertrees, Annan.
Police Scotland ahve reported that a body has been found in the Solway Estuary, Cummertrees near Annan during the search for missing woman Shona Campbell
A Spokesperson stated “At around 5.40pm on Tuesday, 10 December, 2024, the body of a woman was located in the Solway Estuary, Cummertrees, Annan.
Formal identification has still to take place. However, the family of Shona Campbell, 74, who was missing in the area have been informed.”

The death is being treated as unexplained but not believed to be suspicious and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.

Festive Fear at the Theatre Royal!

Festive Fear at the Theatre Royal!
John Hill, Kathleen Cronie, Kenny Murray, Mary Wood - credited to Allan Devlin

A new Mostly Ghostly storytelling experience designed to evoke a hint of festive fear, is set to premiere at Scotland’s oldest working theatre – the Theatre Royal in Dumfries – just in time for Christmas.

Award-winning storytellers and creators of a unique range of ghost and local history tours – Mostly Ghostly – are excited to be presenting Dark Tales for Winter Nights, a portmanteau of super-spooky tales on Wednesday 18th December. The team feel it’s a perfect time of year to gather in cosy company and lose yourself in some truly spine-tingling stories.

Mostly Ghostly Founder Kathleen Cronie shares news of the team’s latest eerie event:

 

“It’s wonderful to be working with our friends at the Theatre Royal in Dumfries on a special festive ghost story event. Our tales have been handpicked to awaken that delicious thrill of fear, transporting guests on an uncanny journey through the haunting landscapes of Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders, where the darkness feels almost omnipresent and eldritch beings draw closer…”

And what is it about the winter and more specifically, Christmastime that brings out the desire to experience a ghostly tale? Kathleen tells us more…

“Winter: the season of frosty sparkle and nose-nipping cold, creates the perfect environment for a ghost story, especially as we enter the festive period and thoughts of snow, cosy gatherings and roaring fires stir our senses. During the endless dark nights, there’s an intrinsic part of us that longs to experience a haunting or cautionary tale, in friendly company, as people have done so across the ages; a form of eerie entertainment to stave off the cold. There is a long held tradition at Christmastime for stories of the uncanny, deeply rooted in the ancient celebrations surrounding the winter solstice, which falls just three days after our event.”

Fired up by their love of the season, both at home here in Dumfries and Galloway and across in our neighbouring region, the bonnie Scottish Borders, the team have delved into the south of Scotland’s dark supernatural past, compiling a collection of suitably chilling tales to help connect people to legends, folklore and most importantly, each other.

From the tragic story of a young girl lost in the snow near Wanlockhead, to accounts of wraiths, fairies and a ‘ghost house’, audiences will be drawn into an otherworldly realm, where the veil feels distinctly thinner.

Giving guests a hint of what’s to come, Kathleen reveals:

“We’ve collected lots of weird and wonderful tales over the years and there’s one really eerie story from Portpatrick about a man who finds himself at the mercy of a mysterious woman and her unwanted affections. Essentially, she’s stalking him; but is she from this world or the next? You could say it’s love at first bite!”

Another dark account, this time from the Scottish Borders, centres around a ruinous sixteenth century tower house near Galashiels.

Team Member John Hill explains:

In the 1680s, a grisly murder was committed at Buckholm Tower by James Pringle – a villainous character who mistreated those closest to him and took to hunting down Covenanters with his pack of hounds. He captured two local men by the name of Geordie and William Elliot, imprisoning them in Buckholm for the night, but his violent temper erupted, with devastating consequences. When Isobel Elliot discovered the fate of her husband and son, she avenged their deaths by placing a curse on Pringle; and from that point on, he was a haunted man. Having visited the tower myself, there is a deeply unsettling presence about the place and I don’t mind admitting I was quite relieved when we left…”

 

In conclusion, Kathleen said:

 

“We can’t wait to welcome our guests and hope they will enjoy this exciting event, and that our spooky tales will create a pleasurable shiver, inspire future reading, visits and research into the south of Scotland’s haunted history, and linger a while, long after the curtain drops…”

 

  • Contact Info: Mostly Ghostly: [email protected]  facebook.com/mostlyghostlytours  twitter.com/MostlyGhostly_
  • Dark Tales for Winter Nights takes place on Wednesday 18th December at 7:30pm, at the Theatre Royal, Dumfries

Springholm Primary School to Lead the Way in Dumfries Carnival!

Springholm Primary School to Lead the Way in Dumfries Carnival!
Copyright Stuart Walker Photography 2024

Pupils from Springholm Primary School will take the lead in the return of Dumfries Carnival, guiding the parade through the streets of Dumfries on 18th January 2025. They will join 18 other classes from 15 schools across the region, coming together to tell the story of Dumfries through the ages.

This marks the first time that Springholm Primary has taken part in the Carnival, and the
students are excited to be front and centre in the opening scene, which will capture the essence of the River Nith and the creatures that inhabit it. This performance will highlight the importance of the river to Dumfries’ history and community.

Under the guidance of emerging dance artist Sommer Pool, one of four dance teachers placed across schools in Dumfries & Galloway, the children of Springholm Primary have been learning ballet to express the river’s beauty and significance. Their dance will evoke the flow of the water and the wildlife that depends on it, showcasing both the natural world and the spirit of Dumfries.

“We are so proud to have Springholm Primary School lead the opening of this year’s Dumfries Carnival,” said Justin Hyslop, Associate Director of Big Burns Supper. “Their performance is a beautiful tribute to the River Nith and symbolises the deep connection our community has to the landscape and history of Dumfries. This Carnival is a celebration of both the past and future, and Springholm’s participation is a perfect example of how young people are embracing and honouring that heritage.”

As part of the lead-up to the Carnival, students across all participating schools have been
receiving free dance sessions to help plan and develop their performances. Big Burns Supper has worked closely with local schools and community groups since August to prepare for this highly anticipated event.

The Dumfries Carnival will take place from 17th to 19th January, with the grand lantern
procession and parade happening on 18th January, starting from George Street at 5:00 PM. The community is invited to participate in lantern-making workshops at eight different locations starting on 30th December, including at the Big Burns Supper box office on High Street during the light switch-on event.

This year’s Carnival will feature a wealth of exciting activities, including:
● Northern Lights: A stunning new free light and sound installation that will illuminate the
town’s buildings.
● Street Food Market: A three-day market with food vendors from 17th to 19th January.
● Music Stage: A free community music stage at Queensberry Square, featuring
performances from local artists.
● Super Lantern Hubs: A series of pre-Carnival events, offering free lantern-making
workshops and entertainment for families during the Christmas holidays. These will take
place across Dumfries in collaboration with partners like Dumfries Ice Bowl and Queen
of the South.
● Family Hub: A brand-new space on the High Street offering £3 shows, toddler play
sessions, a Family Ceilidh, Kingdom of Creatures, musical bingo, poetry performances,
and much more!

Big Burns Supper, which runs from 17th January to 2nd February 2024, will include the
world-renowned Burns Night Live broadcast on 25th January, bringing a global audience to
Dumfries for this iconic celebration.

Springholm Primary School’s performance in the Dumfries Carnival is just the beginning of what promises to be a memorable three weeks of winter fun. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the area, there’s something for everyone at this year’s Big Burns Supper.

For more information about the Dumfries Carnival, lantern-making workshops, and the full
schedule of events, visit www.bigburnssupper.com.

BLACKS BACK ON FORM ON HOME GROUND

Stewartry RFC got back to winning ways with a bonus point victory over Moray in Scottish National 4.

Despite the relentless rain during the week, Greenlaw held up nicely on Saturday for David
Thomson’s side to grind out a well-earned 30-26 win.

The Blacks looked back to their old best in the opening exchanges as they did all they could to keep the ball alive and keep the opposition defenders moving.
The first try of the game came through winger Mungo Bryson, who profited from some quick offloads in the middle of the park before he raced away down the right wing to score and put Stewartry ahead.

It was not long until Stewartry were in again and, after working their way up the pitch and falling just short of the try line, flyhalf John Picken sniped round the blindside to score in the corner and give his team a 10-0 lead.

Moray then started to play their game and managed to work themselves back into the match with a couple of uninterrupted scores and led 21-13 at halftime.

Stewartry came out of the blocks flying in the second half and continued to pile the pressure on the visitors. James McCulloch got his second try of the season with a burst through the middle of the defence and kicker Andrew Picken kept the scoreboard ticking with a few penalties.

Going into the final two minutes of the game, Stewartry’s game management and patience with the ball proved to be the deciding factor as centre Robert Austin found some space out wide to score and put the home side ahead.

There was still time for the kickoff and Moray won back possession but the Stewartry wall held out for the final 60 seconds and saw the game through for a huge 5-point league win.

Just one game remains in 2024 for Stewartry before the Christmas break and its a home tie against local rivals Newton Stewart in the National League Cup.

The Showtunes Must Go On

The Showtunes Must Go On

Get ready for an incredible night of musical excellence with “The Showtunes Must Go On”! This exciting show brings the best of Broadway and the West End to life in your local theatre.

The Showtunes Must Go On is coming to The Brigend Theatre, Dumfries on the 25th January 2025, 7.30pm

Are you a fan of the West End and Broadway? Do you love nothing more than basking in the glory of a good old-fashioned showtune? The Showtunes Must Go On is the live concert experience for you!

Touring local theatres to bring showtunes to people all across the country, we promise an unforgettable show with an explosion of high-energy performances. From the haunting melodies of Phantom of the Opera to the empowering anthems of Wicked, you’ll be singing along to every note. Relive the most iconic moments from some of the greatest musicals ever made, including Chicago, Rent, Rocky Horror, Les Mis, Six, Moulin Rouge, and much much more.

Get your tickets at www.showtunes.live

All your favourite, timeless classics will be delivered by our phenomenal, theatre-loving performers. Their outstanding showstoppers will leave you hanging on every word, just like the real theatre shows. We cannot wait to serve you up a little slice of Broadway this year!

But don’t just take our word for it! Listen to some of the amazing audience feedback we have received:

“Utterly brilliant! I expected it to be a class act, but I was totally blown away 👏👏👏👏”

“I’ve just seen the matinee. FABULOUS!!!!!

This show is a must-see. We loved it. Once the word is out, you’ll be lucky if you can get a seat!”

“Been to see the show tonight. Was absolutely amazing! Brilliant talent on display. So entertaining! Well done all! 👏👏👏”

“It was amazing. 3 incredibly talented performers!”

 

This show has a PG age rating, and content warnings can be found at www.showtunes.live/warnings

Traditional Panto Returns to Kirkcudbright

Traditional Panto Returns to Kirkcudbright

Over the years, Kirkcudbright Parish Players have introduced their audiences to a wide range of lesser-known pantomimes: Treasure Island; The King’s New Clothes; The Magic Tinder Box; Simple Simon.

This year, however, they return to a well-known traditional tale – ‘Sleeping Beauty’ – in a family panto by Warren McWilliams. Here are all the old favourites:  a beautiful princess, a handsome prince, not one but three good fairies and a bad fairy to boo.

But there are twists! The Bad Fairy doesn’t just put the princess to sleep: she and her less-than-savoury henchmen kidnap the prince so that he cannot kiss her awake!

Will our heroes, the Court Jester, Nurse Nelly and the prince’s bodyguard (who seems to have escaped from Eastenders!) rescue him in time? Of course, they will – it’s a pantomime after all – but not before they have lots of mad adventures and tell some excruciating jokes!

Come along to Kirkcudbright Parish Church Hall, to cheer on the goodies, boo the baddies and singalong with the chorus.

Performances on Thursday 12th, Friday 13th and Saturday 14th this week at 7.30pm, with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

Tickets are on sale at Thomson’s Newsagent, Kirkcudbright.

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