Strathaven

NFU Scotland

A ‘walk and talk’ farm crime prevention and fire safety event in Strathaven will provide NFU Scotland members with key information to protect their property. The event, organised by NFU Scotland in conjunction with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland, will take place on Tuesday 9 August at East Merkland Farm, Strathaven, by permission of the Dyet family. Representatives will be on hand from all of the organisations involved to answer questions and give guidance and there will be practical demonstrations on security systems, crime prevention and fire safety techniques. Tom French, Regional Manager for Forth and Clyde, commented: “NFU Scotland continues to work with partner agencies to provide farmers with practical advice on protecting their property and encourages farmers from the area to attend this event. The threat of rural crime is always present so it is vital farms know the best and most effective ways to protect their property. This event is the latest in a series of similar events organised by the Union across the country. Advice will be readily available to assist farmers in making their property as secure and as safe as possible.”

SLAUG AGM

On Thursday August 11 South Lanarkshire Against Unconventional Gas (SLAUG) holds its second Annual General Meeting followed by a free showing of the new anti fracking film, Groundswell Rising. The film uncovers the deep connections between the profit driven corporations and the political system and follows the grassroots movement as it fights back. SLAUG Chairman, John Young states, ‘We must not be complacent about the threat of fracking. It is coming here and we need to be prepared to fight back. Research and experiences from the US and Australia tell us that our health, our local economy and our environment depends on this technology not getting a foothold in our area. It cannot be made safe via regulation.’ Everyone is welcome, whether you are already involved in the movement or interested in learning more about it. Tea and coffee will be provided and the venue offers car parking at rear. From 7.30pm at the Thomson Hall, Strathaven Town Mill Arts & Heritage Centre.

Strathaven Balloon Festival

Preparations are well underway for the 2016 Strathaven Balloon Festival. It will take place during the final weekend of August from the evening of Friday 26 to the evening of Sunday 28. Weather permitting, they hope to fly the balloons (20 expected) just after 6am and 6pm on each day. This means from 6pm on the Friday, at dawn on the Saturday and Sunday, and in the early evening of the Saturday and the Sunday balloons will take off. Look out for the spectacular Evening Glow on Saturday 27 after 9pm and during the afternoon and evening of Saturday and the afternoon of Sunday, you can enjoy the Family Fun Days. There’s no admission charge, you don’t need a ticket, but the committee request that you buy a souvenir programme and pop some cash in their collecting bucket. That support ensures that the festival can take place, every year.