Novel celebration

Barry Mill is all set to enjoy something of a ‘novel’ celebration on Sunday September 9, when the National Trust for Scotland property hosts a special event to mark the publication of Bone Deep, a psychological thriller inspired by the folklore and landscape of the mill.

Author Sandra Ireland, from Carnoustie, worked as a guide at the historic property, and in 2017 was awarded funding by Creative Scotland to undertake a writing residency there. During that year, she was able to observe the changing moods of the old watermill and the reactions of visitors to the building, its setting and its history.

Sandra says: “There are many stories associated with Barry Mill. Some of them are historically accurate, while others owe more to the rich culture of folklore surrounding milling in general. During my residency, I had access to a valuable archive of source material collected by former miller Peter Ellis and made many visits to the National Library of Scotland. I chose the Border Ballad of The Cruel Sister as the central strand in this modern tale. It features two sisters who quarrel down by the millpond and get on the wrong side of a very sinister miller!”

The publication of Bone Deep will be celebrated with a session of spoken word, traditional music and readings from the book. Running from 2-4pm, this is a free event to coincide with Angus Heritage Week and the Doors Open Weekend, when Barry Mill throws open its doors to visitors, in co-operation with the Scottish Civic Trust and Visit Angus.

Bone Deep is published by Polygon.