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Kirkcudbright Cardiac Screening In Memory of David Hill, Huge Success

Kirkcudbright Cardiac Screening In Memory of David Hill, Huge Success

An incredibly successful weekend of cardiac screening was held in Kirkcudbright, taking cardiac screening out of Dumfries and to the west of the region, in memory of David Hill.

Since David’s death in March 2022, the David Hill Memorial Fund has now raised over £85,000, which has allowed David’s family to fund and book 1200 cardiac screening appointments across Dumfries and Galloway, which are free for young people to attend.

 

Over the two days, we saw 195 young people for screening, some who have needed onward referrals, and by far the greater percentage were from Kirkcudbright and the surrounding areas. We also had people travel from Lothian, as well as Lanarkshire, Stirlingshire and as far away as Belfast.

We want to thank all those who have supported our fundraising efforts and in raising awareness of Young Sudden Cardiac Death.

 

David’s parents, Sharon Duncan and Rodger Hill have said, “This is a clear indication of the need for screening, and has shown us the importance of providing screening events around the region. This will help us plan for future screening events, and, if funding permits, we are now planning to hold screenings across the region as well as in Dumfries.”

 

We would like to thank Kirkcudbright Academy and in particular Mr Tuffery, Head Teacher, and the excellent janitorial team for accommodating us so well, and thanks also from the C-R-Y team.

 

Our next screening event is scheduled for September 13/14th and information is available on the CRY website www.c-r-y.org.uk.

We encourage everyone who is interested in attending this event to register at www.testmyheart.org.uk to be notified when the event is live for booking.

 

 

 

Motorcyclist Seriously Injured In Collision Near Stranraer

MOTORCYCLIST SERIOUSLY INJURED IN COLLISION NEAR STRANRAER

Road policing officers are appealing for information following a serious crash on the A77 near Innermessan, Stranraer.

The incident happened around 4.25pm on Monday, 16 June, and involved a black and orange KTM1290 motorcycle and a white Fiat Talento motorhome.

The motorcyclist, a 62-year-old man, was taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow with serious injuries. His condition is described as critical but stable.

The road was closed in both directions and re-opened around 0.40am on Tuesday, 17 June.

Constable Scott Costley said: “Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances and we are asking anyone who saw what happened who has not already spoken to officers to get in touch.

“We are also asking road users in the area at the time to check their dash-cam to see if they have any footage that could assist with our investigation.”

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2212 of Monday, 16 June, 2025.

The Ghost Hunt is Afoot: Spirits Stir at Broughton House…

The Ghost Hunt is Afoot: Spirits Stir at Broughton House...

Mostly Ghostly launch a new paranormal experience on the Summer Solstice!

On the evening of Saturday 21st June — the Summer Solstice — Broughton House & Garden in Kirkcudbright — cared for by the National Trust for Scotland — will host a unique event never before offered to the public: a Good Old-Fashioned Ghost Hunt, led by the award-winning team at Mostly Ghostly.

Presented in collaboration with the National Trust for Scotland, the event marks the first ever public paranormal investigation at Broughton House. This atmospheric evening invites guests to explore the historic home of artist E.A. Hornel during a rare after-hours experience running from 9pm to 3am, using traditional ghost-hunting techniques blended with reflective investigation, storytelling, and historical context.

The team, founded by award-winning storyteller and tour guide Kathleen Cronie, has been creating immersive ghost and local history experiences across Dumfries and Galloway since 2008, and are best known for their creative, engaging and well-researched approach. This new venture was developed in direct response to guest feedback — with many asking for deeper explorations of locations and the opportunity to engage more actively with the unexplained.

Kathleen tells us more

“We wanted to create something intimate, meaningful, and rooted in place, helping to connect people to the history, heritage, and atmosphere of a location — and inviting them to explore the stories and energies that may still linger.
We’ve really enjoyed working with the National Trust for Scotland on past events such as Broughton House by Candlelight and A Pleasing Terror at Threave House — both very well received — and it’s a joy to be collaborating again on something new and exciting.”

Working closely with colleagues John Hill, Kenny Murray, and Mary Wood, the team will lead guests through a carefully planned series of small-group sessions throughout the night — making use of dowsing rods, pendulums, mirror work, and trigger objects, while incorporating atmospheric elements such as storytelling and sensory observation. Colleagues from the National Trust for Scotland will also be on hand to support the experience.

With its richly detailed interiors, vast collections of antiquities and artworks, and layers of history, Broughton House has long carried an air of intrigue. Over the years, staff have reported unexplained footsteps, a sense of movement when no one’s there, and more recently during a pre‑event visit, a wooden shutter that opened repeatedly, despite being securely closed…

Team member John Hill highlights the team’s approach:

“While we’re open to the possibility of the unexplained, we also approach things with balance. It’s about tuning into your surroundings, reflecting on how you feel, and considering both the ordinary and the unknown. Whatever the outcome, it’s about being present, thoughtful, and respectful of the place and its stories.”

Guests will also take part in a short outdoor session in the spectacular garden, guided by the ambiance of the Solstice night, followed by opportunities for group reflection and sharing.

It’s a rare opportunity to experience Broughton House not just as a visitor, but as an active participant in its unfolding story. With only two tickets remaining, this event promises to be an atmospheric, interactive experience, and a new chapter in Mostly Ghostly’s evolving programme of investigative events.

A good old-fashioned ghost hunt — in every sense.

  • A Good Old-Fashioned Ghost Hunt launches on runs on Saturday 21st June, 9pm-3am. Tickets are available from the Midsteeple Box Office in Dumfries and online at Ticketsource. Tickets are £65 per person | Age 16+ (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult)

Grace Darling’s Distant Relative Hopes He Has The Competitive Rowing Edge At Skiffieworlds

Grace Darling’s distant relative hopes he has the competitive rowing edge at SkiffieWorlds
Photography from: Colin Hattersley

Rowers across the globe are training hard for SkiffieWorlds 2025, the highlight of the competitive coastal rowing calendar will be held in Stranraer, south west Scotland, 6-12 July.

One competitor, Adam Wilson, 18, who is competing for the Musselburgh based Eskmuthe Rowing Club, hopes his family connection to Victorian heroine, Grace Darling, will see his team win gold.

SkiffieWorlds, the World Championship of St Ayles class of coastal rowing, takes place every three years, and this year’s championship is being hosted by Stranraer Water Sports Association, on Loch Ryan. With record entry numbers, this will be the biggest ever gathering of wooden St Ayles skiff boats, which are hand built by the competing clubs.

Already a keen rower, Adam Wilson discovered a family connection to Grace Darling while researching his family tree:

“When I found out, I was amazed. I am very proud to be related to her. I had heard the story of Grace before, but didn’t make any connection that she was part of my family. I’ve always liked the sea, but when I started researching my family’s connections to the sea, I gained a personal link. Now it’s not just random history; it’s my personal history.”

In 1838, Grace Darling, along with her Longstone Lighthouse Keeper father, William, rowed to the rescue of nine shipwreck victims in a ferocious storm. The steamship Forfarshire had run aground on the rocks on Big Harcar off the Farne Islands, Northumberland. Grace and her father knew the conditions would be too rough for the lifeboat to set out from Seahouses, so they decided to row their small coble across to help the survivors. Darling’s bravery saw her become a national heroine, winning the hearts of the nation as the story of her courageous rescue spread internationally.

Grace Darling’s sister is Wilson’s three times great-grandmother, Mary Darling. Grace died tragically young in October 1842, aged 26, from tuberculosis, with no direct descendants.

Before he discovered his seafaring heritage, Adam Wilson was encouraged by a family friend to have-a-go at coastal rowing, and he proved to be a natural.

He adds, “I guess it was fate. I enjoyed it so much that I did two sessions. There was a club race afterwards, and as they were one person short, I ended up racing in that as well.

“I think having Grace Darling as a relative and seafaring in my blood means I naturally enjoy rowing. Some of the older members of my family still have Darling as a middle name, but I don’t. In more modern times, everyone has completely forgotten the connection.”

Wilson believes he is the first person in his family since Grace Darling’s time to be involved in rowing and he trains with his Eskmuthe crewmates twice a week, plus additional gym sessions to build racing stamina.

He explains the health benefits of the sport: “Rowing was the thing that got me physically active again after lockdown. I started going to the gym, and mentally it is great because it allows you to disconnect completely and gives you something positive to focus on. You just forget about everything else.”

He is very much looking forward to the World Championship event:

“It’s my first SkiffieWorlds, so I am excited to take part in the event. I have competed in day regattas before, but this is bigger than anything I have done before. The beachfront at Stranraer will be quite a sight with all the boats lined up.”

Steedie Falconer, is the skiff Eskmuthe Rowing Club will be racing at SkiffieWorlds 2025. It is named after a formidable female character, Steedie Falconer – the last ever Fisherrow fishwife. She died aged 95 before the boat was launched and by chance was allocated the Scottish Coastal Rowing Association registration number 95.

Wilson says: “Steedie Falconer is the best, and everyone’s favourite. I think her spirit is also with the boat when we’re rowing it.”

Fisherrow and Musselburgh were two separate historic communities either side of the River Esk, and the club was named Eskmuthe to honour them both. The club’s first boat was called Honesty after the Honest Toun of Musselburgh.

“The best bit about rowing is getting out on the water and that sense of flying through the waves. At the start of a race, you have a sense of anticipation, then a rush of adrenaline. There is pressure when you’re approaching the turn – if you screw up it up it’s a big thing. And at the end, when you are neck to neck with other boats, all you hear is row, row, row! But it is also about the camaraderie and the community feeling.

“I can’t wait to get to Stranraer for SkiffieWorlds to begin.”

Adam Wilson will be competing in both the male and mixed under-19 team.

  • Under 19 male crew is made up of Adam Wilson, Logan McLeod, Finlay Wishart, Savva Nazarov coxed by Gaynor Allen
  • Under 19 mixed crew is Adam Wilson, Logan McLeod, Rhona Milne, Lily Henderson coxed by Gaynor Allen

The triennial SkiffieWorlds world championship will see more than 2,000 rowers from 79 clubs, from Scotland and the UK as well as rowers travelling from as far away as the Netherlands Canada, USA, South Africa, and Australia.

Coastal rowing is a sport for all ages: Eskmuthe Rowing Club’s youngest rower is 13 and their oldest 73. For more information visit https://www.eskmutherowingclub.org.uk/

For more information about SkiffieWorlds 2025 visit www.skiffieworlds2025.co.uk  

SNP Take Over D&G Council Leadership

SNP TAKE OVER D&G COUNCIL LEADERSHIP

At a special meeting of Full Council today (Monday 16 June), councillors agreed a new administration with immediate effect.

In summary:
• Cllr Katie Hagmann was elected Convener, Depute Leader and Civic Head.
• Cllr Stephen Thompson was elected Leader and Depute Convener.

The news comes following today’s resignation of former Convener (Depute Leader/Civic Head) Cllr Malcolm Johnstone and Depute Convener (Leader) Gail Macgregor with immediate effect.

Convener, Councillor Katie Hagmann, said:
“What our communities need most is a steady hand – one that ensures consistent delivery of quality education and social care, fosters a thriving local economy, addresses the pressures of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and improves vital infrastructure like our roads.
“Guided by the core values of our council, I’m committed to working alongside all elected members to protect our region’s future, support our residents, strengthen our communities and ensure we remain a council that listens and responds.
“Our administration will be built on cooperation – working constructively with all political groups to continue the implementation of our ambitious Council Plan.
“With eight years’ experience as a local councillor and drawing on my experience over the past three years as COSLA Resources Spokesperson, I’m ready to build consensus and find common ground to deliver real progress for the people of Dumfries and Galloway.”

The Provost of Dumfries will be Cllr Tracey Little.

The council also agreed committee Chairs and Vice-Chairs.
Committees
Economy and Infrastructure Committee
Chair: Cllr Andy Ferguson
Vice-Chair: Cllr Tony Berretti
Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee
Chair: Cllr Tracey Little
Vice-Chair: Cllr George Jamieson

Enabling and Customer Services Committee
Chair: Cllr John Campbell
Vice-Chair: Cllr Ben Dashper

Social Work Services Committee
Chair: Cllr Andy McFarlane
Vice-Chair: Cllr John Young
Audit, Risk and Scrutiny Committee
Chair: Cllr Gail Macgregor
Vice-Chair: Cllr Carolyne Wilson
Planning Applications Committee
Chair: Cllr Jim Dempster
Vice-Chair: Cllr Tony Berretti
Sub Committees
Climate, Environment and Biodiversity Sub Committee
Chair: Cllr Dougie Campbell

Employment and Appeals Sub Committee
Chair: Cllr Tracey Little

Harbours Sub Committee
Chair: Cllr Ben Dashper

Pensions Sub Committee
Chair: Cllr John Campbell
Review of Standing Orders Sub Committee
Chair: Cllr Andy McFarlane
Tackling Poverty, Inequalities and Housing Sub Committee
Chair: Cllr Richard Brodie (Scottish Liberal Democrats)
Vice-Chair: Cllr Kim Lowe
Police, Fire and Rescue Sub Committee
Chair: Cllr Tony Berretti

You can see the Full Council meeting via our website Dumfries and Galloway Council Meetings – Dumfries and Galloway Council (dumgal.gov.uk) and you can view the meeting papers at Agenda for Dumfries and Galloway Council on Monday, 16th June, 2025, 2pm – Dumfries and Galloway Council (moderngov.co.uk)

Dumfries & Galloway Council Youth Work Team Wins Prestigious National Award

Dumfries and Galloway Council is thrilled to announce that its Youth Work Team won the “Large Team of the Year” award at the LGC (Local Government Chronicle) Awards 2025, held in London on 11th June.

This national recognition celebrates the team’s exceptional contributions to local communities through weekly youth engagement, the delivery of Scotland’s largest free youth music event—Youth Beatz Festival—and their commitment to community-based youth work.

The LGC Awards honour excellence in local government across the UK, spotlighting the dedication and innovation of teams and individuals who make a real difference in their communities. The “Large Team of the Year” category recognises high-performing teams that demonstrate outstanding collaboration, leadership, and measurable impact on local people.

The award acknowledges the Youth Work Team’s continued success in delivering the UK’s largest free youth music event – the Youth Beatz Festival – which attracts over 20,000 attendees each day. The event is uniquely organised by the Council’s Youth Workers in partnership with young and adult volunteers, rather than professional event staff. Central to the festival’s success is The Toon Experience—an immersive educational drama that addresses real-life issues affecting young people.

Young people are actively involved in shaping the festival, working alongside Youth Work staff to co-design key elements such as the Fringe Festival, Second Stage, and Youth Work Tent, ensuring the event remains relevant, inclusive, and empowering.

The judges of the award said that they were hugely impressed by Dumfries and Galloway Council’s entry for large team of the year. “By turning a popular event into a service across education, they have inspired young people and boosted their confidence.” What most impressed the judges was the real, lived experience in their team, and the difference it made across the region and beyond.

Councillor Maureen Johnstone, Chair of the Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee, said: “I am absolutely delighted for our Youth Work team to receive this national Award, and it is a fitting testament to their passion, professionalism and dedication to creating safe, inclusive and inspiring experiences for young people across our region. I am very proud of the team, and it is fantastic we have been able to represent Dumfries and Galloway on a national level and win this prestigious award.”
Councillor Lynne Davis, Vice Chair of the Committee, added: “This is a huge achievement for our Youth Work team, and I am very proud of them and thank them for their efforts. The Youth Work team work hard, and most importantly they work alongside young people the length and breadth of Dumfries and Galloway to make a real lasting impact. This national award highlights the excellent work that is being delivered here in our region, and a huge well done to everyone.”
Chelsay McDill, who is a young volunteer in The Toon and presented to the judges as part of the judging panel process said: “Being a part of Youth Work through The Toon experience has helped me to build my confidence and supported me to learn new skills. Youth Work is important to young people because it gives them a fun and exciting space to be themselves, have fun with their friends, as well as opportunities to learn and grow. I am thrilled we were able to win this award and can’t wait for Youth Beatz 2025!”

Dumfries and Galloway Council extends its congratulations to all nominees and celebrates the

Smiths Hotel Hosts Gretna FC 2008 Annual Awards Night

Smiths Hotel, part of the award-winning, family-owned Gretna Green destination, proudly hosted the annual Gretna FC 2008 Awards Night earlier this month.

The evening welcomed 158 guests, including players, coaches, parents, and volunteers, who gathered to celebrate the achievements of the Men’s First Team, Women’s Team, and Youth Teams. The event featured a three-course dinner, formal awards presentations, and live entertainment from a singer. Guests also took part in a fundraising raffle, with prizes including an overnight stay at Smiths Hotel.

The event was a continuation of Gretna Green’s wider support for the club and local sport. In addition to sponsoring Gretna FC for the 2024/25 season, Gretna Green has recently renewed its sponsorship for another year – demonstrating an ongoing commitment to the team and its role in the community. As the only local retailer to stock the club’s strips, Gretna Green has also played a key role in supporting fans and the wider community.

“As a business rooted in the heart of Dumfries & Galloway, we’re thrilled to celebrate our local football heroes,” said Amy Glendinning, Finance Director of Gretna Green Ltd. “The Anvils embody the same spirit of resilience and community that has defined Gretna Green for more than three centuries, and we’re honoured to welcome players, staff, and supporters to our iconic venue.”
The club’s Director of Football, Nikki White, added:
“It was fantastic to see everyone come together to mark what has been a strong year across all age groups. Every person in the room has contributed in some way, and it was important to take a moment to acknowledge that.
Thanks to the team at Smiths Hotel and Gretna Green for their support on the night. We’re already looking ahead to the Christmas event.”

Borders Book Festival Releases Record Breaking Figures

On the final day of its annual extravaganza, the Borders Book Festival has announced record-breaking initial figures.  With sellout sessions on Thursday, Friday and a huge attendance on Saturday, ticket sales soared by a stunning 11% on 2024, which was itself a record-breaking year.

 

Stars glittered in Harmony Garden in Melrose as crowds flocked to see Michael Palin, Gordon Buchanan, Jeremy Hunt, Andrew Marr, Gavin Esler, Larry Lamb, Jim Swire, Alison Steadman, Ian Rankin and a host of other authors.

 

The sun split the skies on Thursday and Friday and even the occasional bout of refreshing weather on Saturday dampened no one as festival-goers enjoyed the unique atmosphere of the Food Village in the Orchard under a vast Clear Span marquee, newly erected this year.

 

Festival Directors Alistair Moffat – who was this week awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours — and Paula Ogilvie are delighted by the news of record-breaking attendance, saying:

 

“With more superb sessions still to come on Sunday, we might even nudge that 11% figure upwards.  The atmosphere in the marquees at the sold-out sessions was magical, as audiences laughed, asked excellent questions and enjoyed listening to our superb authors.”

 

The 2026 Borders Book Festival will run from 11th to 14th June and hoteliers in the central Borders are reporting that their guests are already rebooking rooms en masse.

 

“We can’t wait for the next one”, said Paula Ogilvie, “but maybe after a bit of a breather and even a break!”

 

St. Joseph’s College Presents Bold and Dazzling Production of Chicago: Teen Edition 

The curtain is rising on one of Broadway’s most iconic shows—with a youthful twist. St. Joseph’s College proudly presents Chicago: Teen Edition, a dynamic reimagining of the legendary musical, performed by an all-student cast from June 17th through to June 20th.

This special adaptation retains all the jazz, intrigue, and razzle-dazzle of the original while being thoughtfully tailored for teen performers. Set in the roaring 1920s, Chicago tells the story of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly—two vaudevillian murderesses who fight for fame, freedom, and the spotlight in a media-obsessed world.

Directed by Miss Edmonds with student choreography team led by Miss Denim and Miss Kerr and musical direction by student Donald Whitelaw and Mrs Somerville, this production showcases the incredible talent, dedication, and creative energy of St. Joseph’s College Drama and Music departments.

“Chicago: Teen Edition allows our students to explore complex characters and themes in an age-appropriate way, while still giving them a chance to shine through bold choreography, sharp wit, and show-stopping numbers,” said Miss Edmonds. “As always, offers of help from colleagues and past pupils are so valuable and kind. We cannot express how much we appreciate it; there are so many favours you’re willing to do!”
Sophie who plays Roxie Hart has thoroughly enjoyed her experience this year “it is a delight to work with some of my best friends, while also building relationships with people I didn’t know before. I’m so glad to be part of such a fun show to perform!”
Mary Sunshine actor Sophie has reflected on her show experience this year, inspiring our younger pupils with her performance “it helps strengthen your connections around the school greatly and I highly recommend younger years of the school getting themselves involved so they get a chance to expand their circles outside of their classes/year groups”.

“Chicago: Teen Edition” features iconic musical numbers like “All That Jazz” and “Cell Block Tango,” alongside a gripping story of ambition, crime, and the allure of the spotlight. The cast and crew have worked tirelessly to deliver a memorable theatrical experience.

Tickets are available for purchase at the school office. Don’t miss this opportunity to see the talented students of St. Joseph’s College shine on stage; it would be a crime to miss it!

Performance Dates:
📅 June 17, 18, 19, and 20
🕕 Show Time: 7:00 PM nightly
📍 Venue: St. Joseph’s College, Craigs Road, Dumfries, DG1 4UU

Tickets:
🎟️ Available now at the school office 01387 252893
Pricing: £9 Adults/ £6 Concessions

Cricket, Comedy and Conversations That Matter – Jack’s Ashes at The Swallow Theatre

The Worst Team Talk Ever Provides A Humorous Insight Into Mental Fitness

A new solo theatre show engages through humour to reduce stigma and promote conversations about mental fitness.

Jack’s Ashes was developed in consultation with professional sports bodies and mental health charities, and is presented as a team talk delivered direct to the audience, who play the part of the hapless and harangued team.

Richly entertaining and informative, this compelling and heartfelt show is performed by comedy veteran and television allrounder Tim Marriott, who starred in all 52 episodes of the 1990s BBC One comedy sitcom The Brittas Empire.

The show will appeal to cricket fans, however no knowledge of the game is necessary to appreciate the show, as it will resonate with anyone striving to achieve excellence in their chosen field. The play uses humour to consider a serious message of mental fitness, the power of community and the benefits of open, honest conversations.

It was co-written by Matt Banes, a former professional cricketer with Durham MCCU and Kent County Cricket Club and features recorded contributions from the cricketing world including David ‘Bumble’ Lloyd. Jack’s Ashes was developed with support from Arts Council England and is presented in partnership with Cricket Australia and the Australian Cricketers’ Association.

Jack’s Ashes comes to The Swallow Theatre near Whithorn on Thursday 10 July at 7.30pm and Friday 11 July at 2.30pm.

The show lasts 70 minutes and is recommended for age 12+. Tickets are £15.00 and can be bought online at https://swallowtheatre.co.uk/

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