Advertise on DGWGO

Absolute Classics Hosts Sunday Morning Concert & Lunch at Dabton House

Cellist Will Archibald

Will Archibald & Simon Callaghan
Beethoven, Prokofiev, Piazzolla
Sunday 25th May 2025, 11:30AM – Dabton House
Presented by Absolute Classics

Sunday at Dabton House begins with a concert that moves effortlessly between light and shade, boldness and delicacy. Cellist Will Archibald, a young artist of remarkable depth and flair, brings fire and refinement to a programme that spans continents and centuries.

Book Online

Beethoven’s noble and searching Sonata No. 3 is followed by the crystalline wit of Prokofiev’s C major Sonata. Archibald’s resonant and richly coloured playing finds an ideal partner in pianist Simon Callaghan, whose sensitive musicianship provides both sparkle and space.

The morning concludes in Buenos Aires with Piazzolla’s Le Grand Tango – a sultry, rhythmic masterpiece pulsing with passion.

Following the performance, guests are invited to enjoy a leisurely two-course Sunday lunch, served from 1:00 to 3:00PM – the perfect conclusion to a refined and tranquil musical morning in the heart of Dumfries and Galloway.

Police Investigate Attempted Murder In Dumfries

POLICE INVESTIGATE ATTEMPTED MURDER IN DUMFRIES

Detectives are appealing for information following an attempted murder in Dumfries.

At Around 11.20pm on Saturday, 17 May, 2025, we received a report of a man being deliberately hit by a car on Criffel Road, near to Lincluden Road.

Emergency services attended and a 28-year-old man was taken to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary for treatment to serious injuries.

The car and its occupants had left the scene, heading towards College Road and onto Newbridge Drive.

From enquiries so far, officers have established a silver-coloured, five-door VW Golf with tinted rear windows was in the area at the time.

Detective Inspector Scott Wilson said: “Extensive enquiries are ongoing and we have been gathering CCTV footage from the surrounding area, which is being reviewed.

“Officers have also been carrying out door to door enquiries in the local area and will continue to do so.

“But I would also be very keen to speak anyone who was in the area at the time or has seen the car since then and may be able to assist our investigation.

“I would also like to hear from anyone who has dash cam, private CCTV or doorbell footage from the Lincluden area around the time of the incident.

“Any information, or footage, could prove vital, so please do pass it on to officers.”

“Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 4575 of 17 May. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Evening of Classical Song at Dabton House with Arthur, Menzies & Callaghan

Simon Callaghan

An Evening of Arias, Art Songs & Ballads
Featuring Catriona Arthur, Lewis Menzies & Simon Callaghan

A special evening of live music comes to Dabton House on Saturday, 24 May 2025, presented by Absolute Classics.

As twilight falls over Dabton House, a vocal recital of rare colour and character will unfold – an evening where the jubilance of Handel meets the poignant beauty of Burns, and the art song reflects the very soul.

Book Online

Scottish soprano Catriona Arthur, currently studying at the Royal Northern College of Music, brings expressive clarity and freshness to each phrase – equally assured in the virtuosity of Let the bright Seraphim and the quiet stillness of My Love is Like a Red, Red Rose.

She is joined by tenor Lewis Menzies, a talent nurtured in Dumfries and refined in Manchester, whose warm, velvety tone brings new lyricism to the works of Mozart, Mendelssohn and Donizetti.

At the piano is Simon Callaghan, whose elegant and intuitive playing provides the evening’s anchor – a collaborative presence drawing out exquisite detail from every setting.

With canapés, wine, and convivial company, guests are invited to enjoy an evening reminiscent of the golden age of song recitals – where operatic grandeur, folk tenderness and drawing-room charm blend beautifully within the refined surroundings of Dabton House.

Call For More Local Foster Carers To Support Children In Dumfries & Galloway

CALL FOR MORE LOCAL FOSTER CARERS TO SUPPORT CHILDREN IN DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY

A new recruitment campaign to help find more foster carers has been launched to mark the start of Foster Care Fortnight (12-26 May 2025), and people across Dumfries and Galloway are being encouraged to consider if they could provide a safe, supportive foster home for a child or young person.

 

The Scottish Government campaign, which was announced by First Minister John Swinney aims to support the recruitment of more Local Authority foster carers and raise awareness of the benefits of fostering, encouraging people in  Dumfries and Galloway to consider if they could support a child or young person in the care system.

 

The Fostering Network estimates that Scotland needs at least 400 additional foster carers.

 

The campaign highlights how the ‘ordinary’ – from eating together, to watching TV together – can be extraordinary in the life of a child in foster care.

 

Councilor Pauline Drysdale, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Social Work Services Committee commented: “Fostering is a hugely important part of helping local children find comfort and security in the ordinary moments, close to home. With a full enrolment and training programme in place through our Fostering and Adoption Team, anyone over the age of 21 with the free space to accommodate a foster child can come forward and make a real difference to the life of a local young person looking for a safe place to stay.
“Dumfries and Galloway is a beautiful place to grow up, and finding local people of all backgrounds who can open their homes to children from the region who are in need of a place to stay means a world of difference to that child; it’s the difference between possibly having to relocate to an unfamiliar area, and being able to stay close to the people, places and spaces they know and cherish.”

 

Sarah Bennett, who has been a foster carer for 14 years said “People often speak about how foster caring changes children’s lives, but he’s changed our lives completely. Every child needs a safe, loving environment, and somebody in their corner to fight for them, advocate for them, and think they’re the best thing since sliced bread. If you can do that by becoming a foster carer, the rewards can be huge. It’s an amazing experience, there are lows as well as highs, of course, but my family and I have learned so much about ourselves as people. It’s been so positive for us”.

 

As he met foster carers at the new campaign launch, the First Minister said:

 

“Foster carers play a vital role supporting and providing safe and loving foster homes to children and young people. They are key to our ambition of delivering The Promise by 2030.
“Across Scotland, foster carers provide stability, care and connection to support children and young people to thrive.
“Our campaign importantly focuses on how the everyday ‘ordinary’ can be extraordinary for a child in foster care. Fostering can be transformational for a child or young person and by stepping forward, foster carers offer not just a home, but the relationships and support that help shape brighter futures.”

 

Anne Currie, Assistant Director for Scotland at The Fostering Network, said:

 

“We welcome the launch of the Scottish Government’s national campaign to recruit foster carers, and hope this leads to more people stepping forward Dumfries and Galloway to become foster carers in Scotland, and raises awareness of the vital role fostering plays. The need has never been more urgent – as over 350 foster carers leave each year, it’s critical that we take action now.”

 

The campaign will run across TV, radio, digital and press throughout May and June. A new website and dedicated advice line have been launched to support those interested in finding out more.

 

For more information on how to become a foster carer, visit www.gov.scot/fostercare or ring the Fosterline service on 0141 204 1400.

 

Background

 

Fostering is open to people of all ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, genders, and family structures. Foster carers do not need any specific qualifications, and don’t need to have children of their own.

 

The ‘Ordinary can be extraordinary for a child in foster care’ campaign runs for four weeks across TV, video on demand, radio and press, and for seven weeks across digital channels.

 

More information on becoming a foster carer can be found at www.gov.scot/fostercare

Enter the Alternative Universe of Alex Rigg in Spring Fling 2025

credit Colin Hattersley
credit Colin Hattersley

The creator of astounding and evocative costumes worn by international dancers, performers and circus artists is opening his collection for the public to explore – and try on.

Alex Rigg, whose own group Oceanallover stages spectacular performances all over the country, is welcoming visitors to his workshop in the hills above Moniaive, near Thornhill, as part of this year’s Spring Fling open studios weekend from 24-26 May.

Visitors can browse his collection of over 200 costumes, try them on, and will be helped to capture the moment on camera. There is also an abundance of accessories from shamanistic staffs to trombones and a vivid pink loudhailer.

Over the past three decades Alex has been commissioned to create costumes used in street carnivals, French circus acts, New York dance production, site-specific theatrical performances and much more.

Many are inspired by the natural world and by environmental issues while others have a sci fi or fantasy feel. Recent works have been based on reptiles shedding their skins.

Alex said: “Everything we create is individually designed, whether it’s for our own productions or for other performers so that it will help bring their concepts to life. All are hand-made and unique.
“People often ask if there’s a chance to try them on – and it’s a real pleasure to make that possible at last.
“This is the first time I’ve opened up the collection in this way and I hope visitors will have fun browsing through the costumes, transforming themselves by trying them on, and getting pictures they can keep and show friends.
“I’m also looking forward to talking people about the costumes and my work.”

Visitors will also be able to see the drawings and notes showing the influences, origins and development of Alex’s costumes. These range from historical and cultural icons to architectural and natural forms.

Natasha Kinsella, Events and Exhibitions Development Manager for Upland CIC which runs Spring Fling, said: “Alex’s is a celebrated designer, his work is incredibly skilled and beautiful – evocative of other worlds and wondrous possibilities. It’s going to be a real treat to see his collection and enter the alternative realities he creates by trying them on.
“More than 80 studios, offering everything from textiles and ceramics through to Jewellery, painting, glassware and photography, will be opening their doors for this year’s Spring Fling.
“It’s a great chance to enjoy the incredible creativity of Dumfries and Galloway and spend time enjoying one of the country’s most beautiful rural regions.”

Spring Fling is divided into six colour-coded routes that visitors can use to guide them round the studios.

Alex is on the Green Route along with tapestry weaver Gyllian Thomson, metalworker Nate Robinson, ceramicists Samuel Sparrow and Ruth Elizabeth Jones, jewellery designers Kaz Robertson and Alison Macleod, painter Anne Butler and the Cample Line gallery.

Hot, Fast and Unforgettable: The Gralloch Delivers Gravel Racing at Its Finest

Hot, Fast and Unforgettable: The Gralloch Delivers Gravel Racing at Its Finest
credited to Red On Sports

Under a blazing sun and on bone-dry, dust-choked trails, The Gralloch returned to the Galloway Forest Park for its third edition, offering a thrilling spectacle as part of the UCI Gravel World Series. Riders from across the globe (35 nations) tackled the iconic Scottish course, with elite men and women racing flat-out across 111km of rolling gravel, fierce climbs, and technical descents.

With scorching conditions transforming the famously rugged route into a high-speed battleground, both elite races delivered gripping storylines, breakout performances, and two unforgettable sprint finishes in Garries Park.

 

Men’s Elite Race: Vakoč Claims Victory in Photo Finish

A stacked men’s field set off with a clear intent to race hard and fast. Early climbs, including the iconic Fuffock Hill, saw a large front group emerge before Petr Vakoč (Canyon Isadore) and Ben Thomas (Ribble Outliers) broke clear on the descent and built a commanding lead, continually increasing through key climbs such as Slaughter Hill and along Raiders Road. The gap increased further up until the 76.5km mark.

But as Vakoč suffered a puncture, the door opened for a dramatic regrouping. Matthew Holmes (OGT Factor Racing) and Benjamin Perry reeled in the leaders, setting up a tense four-way battle.

Returning to Garries Park for the sprint, Holmes led it out, but a perfectly timed inside line from Vakoč saw the Czech rider snatch victory by just three hundredths of a second. Holmes was left agonisingly close to back-to-back Gralloch wins, with Perry rounding out the podium and Thomas finishing fourth—just one second behind.

Top 4 separated by a single second. A race for the ages.

 

Women’s Elite Race: Neefjes Triumphs After Epic Battle

The Elite Women’s field was loaded with talent—and ready to race. Noemie Thomson lit up the course with a fearless solo attack on Fuffock Hill, carving out a lead that stretched to nearly 2.5 minutes by KM61.

Behind her, a chase group of four formed: Ffion Gilbert (Wold Top Pactimo), Tessa Neefjes (Liv Racing), Lizi Brooke (Das Hutchinson), and Sophie Wright (Ribble Outliers). Thomson’s crash with 14km to go gave the quartet the opportunity they needed.

What followed was a tactical game of grit and speed, culminating in yet another four-way sprint into the Event Village. Brooke (+0:07) was the first to fade, while Neefjes surged ahead to secure a famous win ahead of Gilbert (+0:00) and Wright (+0:01).

 

A Gravel Classic in the Making

With the Galloway hills baking in Scottish sunshine, thousands of supporters and riders lined the course and festival grounds in Gatehouse of Fleet to witness a world-class gravel showcase.

The Gralloch once again proved itself as one of the premier gravel events in Europe—delivering drama, challenge, and a celebration of the off-road spirit in one of the UK’s most scenic locations.

 

Official results are available at: https://www.grallochgravel.com/results

Emergency Services Dealing With Incident at Derelict Factory In Dumfries

Emergency Services Dealing With Incident at Derelict Factory In Dumfries
Image Credit - Police Scotland
Police Scotland have stated that they are currently assisting  Scottish Fire & Rescue Service at an incident at the former Gates Factory on Edinburgh Road, Dumfries.
Police have asked the Public to Please stay away from the area whilst the Fire Service make the area safe. There are no reports of any injuries.
Further more, if you seen anything suspicious or anyone in the area the please contact Police on 101.

Standard School Day to Be Introduced Across Region’s Secondary Schools

New Standardised Timetable to be Introduced Across Secondary Schools in Dumfries and Galloway

From Monday 2nd June 2025, all secondary schools across Dumfries and Galloway will adopt a new standardised timetable structure, aimed at creating greater consistency in the school day.

According to a communication issued to parents, carers and learners by the Council’s Education Department, the school day will begin at 8:50am and end at 3:20pm. Each day will include seven 45-minute periods, a 15-minute morning break, a 45-minute lunch, and a 15-minute check-in period which will be used for tutor time, personal and social education, or learning support.

The daily structure will be as follows:

  • Period 1: 8.50am – 9.35am

  • Period 2: 9.35am – 10.20am

  • Check-In: 10.20am – 10.35am

  • Break: 10.35am – 10.50am

  • Period 3: 10.50am – 11.35am

  • Period 4: 11.35am – 12.20pm

  • Period 5: 12.20pm – 1.05pm

  • Lunch: 1.05pm – 1.50pm

  • Period 6: 1.50pm – 2.35pm

  • Period 7: 2.35pm – 3.20pm

Transport Adjustments

The changes will affect around 26 school bus routes, although the west of the region will remain unaffected. Some pupils may experience slight delays of around 5 to 10 minutes, while a small number of schools may face more significant challenges with bus waiting times during June.

These disruptions are expected to be temporary. Full transport arrangements are set to align with the new timetable from August 2025, when the new academic year begins.

In the meantime, secondary school Headteachers have been asked to work with their school communities to manage any short-term transport challenges during the month of June.

Crossmichael Gala Day Returns This August With Fun For The Whole Family

Crossmichael Gala Day returns this August with Fun for the Whole Family.

Get ready for a fantastic day out as the Crossmichael Gala Day makes its much-anticipated return since 2019 on Saturday, August 30th 2025, from 12:30 PM to 9:00 PM.  

 

Set in the beautiful field beside the Crossmichael Marina, this year’s Gala promises an action-packed afternoon full of entertainment, activities, and community spirit — with something for everyone.

 

The festivities kick off with a children’s fancy dress competition and walking parade leaving CrossmichaelPrimary School at 12:30 PM, winding its way down to the main event area by the water. From there, attendees will be treated to an exciting lineup that includes (AND PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL THE ATTRACTIONS* ARE FREE!):

    •    Live bands*

    •    Delicious food stalls

    •    A licensed bar

    •    Thrilling Laser Tag*

    •    A delightful Dog Show*

    •    A huge bouncy castle for the wee ones*

    •    Colourful face painting & Messy Play*

    •    Viking encampment, mock battles & kid’s Shield Wall*

    •    The ever-popular Red Barrows*

    •    Kids’ sports competitions*

    •    And much more*!

This year’s Gala also proudly features the CrossmichaelFlower Show, adding a floral flourish to the day’s attractions.

 

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of organisers have worked tirelessly to bring this beloved event together. Special thanks go to Graham, Kyle, Michelle, Anne-Marie, Amanda, Fiona, John, Jim, Keith, Lyn, Ed, Grant, Angelique, Steph, Dawn, Jeff, Caroline, Laura, Natalie, William, Cindy, Lindsay, Caroline and Caireen and many others, whose hard work in raising funds and community spirit are at the heart of the Crossmichael Gala.

 

Whether you’re a local or visiting the area, come along for a day of music, laughter, and unforgettable memories in one of the region’s most scenic settings. The Crossmichael Gala Day is truly a celebration of what makes this community so special.

Crawick Multiverse Awarded Biosphere Accreditation

CRAWICK MULTIVERSE AWARDED BIOSPHERE ACCREDITATION

Crawick Multiverse is just one of more than fifty local organisations to be awarded the Biosphere Certification Mark from the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere (GSAB) Partnership in their latest round of accreditations.

Crawick Multiverse, a 55-acre art land near Sanquhar in Upper Nithsdale, transformed a former open cast coalmine into a popular visitor attraction and outdoor venue. The site, designed by the late Charles Jencks, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and from day one has been committed to sustainable regeneration, with many of its features being constructed from existing boulders and on-site resources.

As a Proud Supporter of the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere, Crawick Multiverse is pleased to have been working with the GSAB Partnership to work towards certification. The Biosphere Certification Mark is an accreditation scheme which recognises outstanding work towards sustainability. Certification is specifically aimed at sustainable enterprises and businesses located within the UNESCO Biosphere region that are actively supporting the environment, communities and the local economy.

Having been through a rigorous assessment process and providing relevant evidence of their work towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Crawick Multiverse is now the proud recipient of the Bisophere Certification Mark and part of the growing region-wide network of sustainable enterprises in the region.

The Crawick Multiverse Trust was recognised for a wide range of operational initiatives, including their low carbon visitor facilities at The Coalface. It was designed and constructed by Sam Booth of Eco Living using repurposed containers and has water and energy-saving measures built in, as well as a sedum roof. Day-to-day usage of paper and plastic is kept to a minimum. The team are already providing biodegradable cups for hot drinks, where reusable cups are not possible, and staff and visitors are encouraged to make use of the recycling facilities provided on site and to purchase eco-friendly merchandise too. Secure bicycle storage and extensive information about public transport connections are available to encourage responsible travel, whenever possible, to support net zero ambitions and visitors are regularly invited to extend their time in the area to explore the natural and cultural heritage of the UNESCO region.

Taking responsibility for repurposing and maintaining a barren coalmine has been a significant undertaking for the charity, but the team and partners have successfully rejuvenated the 55-acre site with life and greenery. Ponds and water features have become home to aquatic plants, amphibians and invertebrates, and while the landforms on site are carefully manicured to retain their clean lines, other areas of the site have been left uncut to support the growth of wildflowers and pollinators.

While there is much more to do, the GSAB Partnership has commended Crawick Multiverse for their achievements so far and for their ambitions for the future.

Jake McLaughlan, Business Engagement Officer with the GSAB Partnership, said:

“We are absolutely delighted to award Crawick Multiverse the Biosphere Certification Mark and particularly recognise the commitment, consideration and time it takes to apply for accreditation. The management team at Crawick Multiverse have been longstanding supporters of the UNESCO Biosphere and their positive action for sustainability is both creative and inspirational. This is such a unique attraction for visitors coming to the UNESCO region and more than that, it has become a place for wellbeing and connection for local people. As Crawick Multiverse joins the Biosphere’s sustainable business network we are incredibly proud to be part of the amazing journey they are undertaking, which was of course inspired by Charles Jencks and his vision for the site.”

Brian Johnson, Operations Manager at Crawick Multiverse said:

“We are delighted to have been awarded Biosphere Certification from the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership, which recognises our ongoing commitment to protecting the environment, our communities and the planet. Creating an art land in this former coal mine has made a significant contribution to the community, the economy and the natural habitat over the past 10 years. We are constantly reviewing how we do things and try to make responsible decisions about our day-to-day operations, whether it is reducing our carbon footprint, enhancing the natural environment or encouraging staff, suppliers and visitors to take positive steps for sustainability. Being part of a like-minded and dedicated biosphere community will strengthen our network and allow us to learn from each other as we continue on our journey to a more sustainable future. I’m grateful to Erin for taking a leading role in progressing our application for accreditation and to the GSAB team for all their advice and encouragement along the way.”

Crawick Multiverse is open to the public 7 days a week from 10am and has a range of family-friendly events running throughout the season. Motorhome bays are available for overnight stays. Groups and educational trips are also welcome.

123...2,043Page 1 of 2,043

DGWGO Sponsorship

Becoming a sponsor of DGWGO provides you with a targeted approach to your marketing, the opportunity to get your brand/ message in front of new potential customers and regulary remind your existing customers of your products and services.

Click Here To Learn More about DGWGO Sponsorship

Latest Articles

ABOUT DGWGO

DGWGO is a FREE community platform to keep everyone up to date with what’s going on in Dumfries & Galloway as well as promote the region worldwide.

News | Events | Jobs

© DGWGO Limited | Company Registration Number SC473466

DGWGO websites are powered by carbon neutral servers.

By offsetting the carbon emissions we are able to reduce our environmental impact and contribute to a healthier planet for all

dgwgo.com - moo4events.com - moo4jobs.com

Copyright © DGWGO Limited. All Rights Reserved