In connection with the forthcoming UK Footgolf Scottish Open at Muckhart Golf Club, a marquee is being erected to the front of the club house. Those passing through will be directed behind the club house during these works. The Golf Club apologise for any inconvenience.

We have been alerted by local farmers that livestock worrying is becoming a concern within the Muckhart area.

The guidance below has been prepared by the Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime, in partnership with Police Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage, NFUS, Scottish Land and Estates and the Kennel Club, to raise awareness amongst dog owners.

Inspector Jane Donaldson, Police Scotland’s Rural Crime Co-ordinator, said: “The worrying of livestock can have devastating consequences for farm animals and has an obvious financial and emotional impact on farmers and their businesses. The vast majority of livestock worrying incidents involve sheep and can occur when a dog attacks, chases or in the case of sheep, is at large (not on a lead or otherwise under close control) in a field where livestock is kept. The devastating effects of a dog attack are evident and cannot be overstated but significant damage can also be caused by a dog simply being present in a field.”

The advice to dog owners who live in rural areas or anyone walking and exercising their dogs in the countryside is to ensure they are under control at all times and avoid going into fields where livestock is grazing. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code says dogs shouldn’t be taken into fields where there are lambs or other young farm animals.

Farmers and those who use the countryside are urged to report all incidents of livestock worrying to police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.  For more information on outdoor access rights and responsibilities, see www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

Further to various representations to Scottish Water, including by MCC, regarding the earlier planned full road closure of the A823, required to complete works to water pipes, it has been now confirmed that only a single lane closure will be required – good news !!

Scottish Water have advised that the work will start on Monday 2nd July and will last approximately two weeks. Temporary traffic lights will be positioned on the A823, in the area adjacent to the Water Treatment Works.

Also, an Information Event is being held in Glendevon Church Hall on Thursday 21st June, from 4:00pm until 7:00pm, when the plans can be viewed and any questions asked. Everyone is welcome to attend.

We are very pleased to see that the Japanese Gardens at Cowden are progressing well, with intentions of opening this summer. For more information, please visit their dedicated website, http://cowdengarden.com/

Introduction

The Muckhart Community Council Active Community Group are organising an event to bring together as many helpers as possible (young and old), to help maintain the Nature Park. The main focus will be within the apple orchard, but The Nature Park Committee have many other jobs that would welcome your green fingered help!

We would therefore like to invite you to the Nature Park on Sunday 22nd April, between 1pm and 3pm (weather permitting) to start on some light tasks. Tasks will be tailored to suit each volunteer, we just ask that you come along with suitable clothing, footwear, and gloves.

For more information, please contact Jonathan Bacon on jonathan.bacon21@googlemail.com.

An afternoon tea party is being held to raise funds for the British Red Cross. All are welcome to share afternoon tea, biscuits and many more refreshments! All ages welcome, a kids play area will be available.

Muckhart Parish Church,  Saturday 21st April 2pm till 4pm