It’s interesting to see how much news we have despite the lockdown. When I started putting The Bridge together, I thought it would be a very slim edition - but our community never ceases to amaze and impress me with its creativity and optimism. People have sent in articles about ‘local hero’s’; book prizes; zoom meetings not to mention our very own lockdown quiz. Thank you so much to the Nicoll’s family for taking the time to devise this and good luck to you all in getting full marks - click here to view.
Like so many new admirers I have been enjoying the Niel Gow statue in Little Dunkeld. It seems every time I walk past, someone is standing by it having their photo taken or decorating it with a scarf or hat. Niel Gow was sixty when Rabbie Burns met him on his Highland tour. In his journal, Burns described Gow, who played for him, as 'a short, stout-built Highland figure, with his greyish hair shed on his honest social brow - an interesting face, marking strong sense, kind open heartedness mixed with unmistrusting simplicity'. It seems to me the sculptor, David Annand, has done a remarkable job of capturing the essence of this description.
Many congratulations to Pete and everyone on the Niel Gow Festival Committee for all their energy and commitment over the years in envisioning, fundraising and commissioning the statue. If the piece of land the statue stands on doesn’t have a name perhaps it might become known as ‘Fiddlers Green’ and be the place where many a fine tune is inspired to be written? It is such a shame that there can’t be a Niel Gow Festival
this year however hopefully we can celebrate next year. Keep an eye on the festival’s facebook page for updates on what is happening on-line this year.
The good news is that, despite the current snow, Spring is on the way. Snowdrops and crocuses are pushing their way through the icy soil and the days are lengthening once again. What a year it has been - hopefully we will soon be seeing the start of some sort of normality and we can raise a dram to Niel Gow and brighter days.
Slàinte mhath.

Sally Robertson