Before writing my piece for The Crier now, I wait until all the contributions are in so that I can guide you," Dear Readers" to articles of interest, advice, information and amusement; something for everyone
First and foremost I hope you are impressed,with the front cover of this edition, a sunny day in Abernethy the War Memorial being the centrepiece.
These last few years since 1914 have been very much those of reflection on the terrible events of 100 years ago. Many moving stories have been told and many events have taken place in memory of those who lost their lives One of the most moving experiences in my life was attending the memorial service at The Cenotaph on behalf of W.R.V.S Scotland,, something I will never forget.
Now we move on to the contents of Edition 37 of The Crier, lots to read and think about, starting with the Editor's idea about fundraising. Personally I think it is a good idea.
In relation to that it is good to learn that a defibrillator is to be installed in the village and the information from Duncan Kennedy about the Heart Start Training is something as many as possible should take advantage of.
Very full and informative reports from our MP, local councillor and Community Council are to be found within. It is amazing how much goes on in a relatively small rural area.
Well done to Gordon Miller and the Scouts Litter Pick. They all deserve their free McDonald's meal!
We have our usual reports from the SWI, good to hear of a few new members, from the Church, with the sad news that Douglas Main will be leaving us at the end of the year and we are still without a minister, from Abernethy in Bloom; what a splendid job those involved have done.
Bob McDonald is again bringing back memories of the "Good Old Days" with the story of his first Burns Supper. Bob has had lots of fun in his life!!
We are fortunate in having Anne's regular feature advising us on so many aspects of everyday life, this time second hand cars and wearing her other hat Horses for Courses.
Finally you will all enjoy reading the heartfelt appreciation from Karen Jerrard-Dinn of living in Abernethy
A correction from the last edition, my late husband's father had only two sisters not 21!
In conclusion
Best Wishes to you all for a Happy Christmas and New Year.
Having served on the fundraising committee of the Museum of Abernethy and by doing so realise how hard it is to raise funds. It came to me in a flash, if the Crier Committee asked each household, that receives a “Village Crier”, to donate £1 per year, that would raise in the region of £800 per annum for good causes in the villages. Organisations in the Abernethy, Aberargie and Dron could apply for a share of this money. The collection of the cash may pose a problem but I think this could be overcome.
What do you think? Let’s have your views.
If I receive no replies do I take that as a “Yes it’s a good idea” or “No that is a bad idea”.
Let me know?
I hope you are aware that the Community Council is trying to raise money for two defibrillators, one for Abernethy and one for Aberargie.
The one for Aberargie will be installed in the phone box and the one for Abernethy, we hope, will be positioned on the wall of the Surgery in Main St. This will be with the permission of the Doctors Practice. The phone box in the village has an inadequate power supply and it can’t be installed there.
I would like to think the villages would manage to raise the funds to finance this equipment and donations can be made on-line at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/abernethycommunitycouncil
The Community Council is taking advice from many sources before any decisions are made and any money spent.