ST PETER’S HERITAGE TRUST

IN LATE April, we had a spring clean (inside and out!) and all went to plan. It is almost three years since we opened as a centre to house artefacts, historical items and memorabilia - all relating to Peterculter. The most recent addition is a beautiful painting frin Austin Hepburn, painted by him when he resided at East Brae. It is appropriate that the painting can be seen in the Heritage Hall. Austin also donated a collection of photographs of shops long gone but live on in memory. But he set me thinking about what will happen to the Centre once my generation has gone. Those who have given so much to establish what has been achieved must encourage all to partake - young and not so young.

On Tuesday 22 April, Douglas Stewart treated us to a film made prior to the closing of Culter Paper Mill. Douglas is trying to have it made into a video. (More news later.) Does anyone have a film of the Chimney Stack in the process of toppling? This, of course, would be returned to you.

The Centre is open on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays 2pm - 4pm. Teas available each Saturday & Sunday.

Many thanks to all who responded to our appeal for new members. This was much appreciated.

ALLAN PENNIE

(Chairman)

IT IS good to report that our negotiations with Aberdeen City Council have resulted in the upgrading of the car park area and work has now commenced. The project has been undertaken in partnership with the residents of Howie Lane , Peterculter Parish Church , The Heritage Trust and the City Council. The car park area is much used by visitors to the graveyard, Heritage Centre and as a point for having a pleasant walk so it will be a much improved asset in our community.

Plans have now been completed for the provision of new toilets in the Heritage Hall so our next challenge is to have the work completed - hopefully before the start of the winter session. The Hall is available for let and applications should be directed to John Troup at 01224 732701.

JOHN TROUP

EDITOR: I am sure everyone who uses the Car Park is grateful for the generosity of the contributors to its improvement: Aberdeen City Council, Peterculter Parish Church , St. Peter’s Heritage Trust and the residents of Howie Lane . Although the Community Council was involved in the negotiations, it was unable to contribute financially towards the project.