Undercutting and erosion - By James

The danger of erosion by the very water that the Mill needs to work was raised for discussion last month. I have now been told that the most recent rain has had a further impact on the banks. This is especially worrying as it was undercutting and eventual collapse of the lade that was the original cause for the end of milling on the site.

Our first newsletter! by James

We are delighted to bring you our first newsletter. Hetty (the editor) has been cracking the whip and making sure the contributors all had their pieces in on time. And everyone has done a great job.

If you don't have a copy then download yours now by clicking this link.

Remember to send us an e-mail and we will add you to our contact list.

Last days of the season

Trees with an autumnal carpet - by Phyllis Anderson

Only the leaves on the ground remind us that it is October and not summer on this beautiful day. It was so quiet and peacful you could even hear the leaves fall.

Some of the trees in the orchard have been laden with apples. They are always a pleasure to look at. From the apple blossom in the spring to the different varieties of apples which for a donation to the Mill, you can enjoy the flavour of these old varieties.

Deer at the Mill - By Phyllis

It's about a month since I spotted a deer in the field across from the Mill. It is usually as the mornings get darker and the evenings draw in that we run into each other as I walk around the Mill. The most I've spotted together at once is 4. I just hope the farmer hasn't had too much success from his shooting from the platform in the adjacent field.

This picture was taken from the road that comes from Grange of Barry to the bridge across the Pitairlie Burn.

Farewell Cat x

Our very own musical wizz girl took off to get the ferry from Stranraer on Saturday. Cat LeeMarr has been an invaluable asset to the Friends, bringing sweet music and organisation to the group. However, following her successful completion of her Masters degree, with distinction, she has headed back to her home land.

She will be missed very much by us all and we look forward to seeing her when she is back in February.

We would all like to say a big thank you to Cat and her lovely hubby Chris, for all their hard work, and a thank you to all the musicians they have roped into supporting us, especially those at Jagged Roots.

by Gwen Anderson

King Fisher at Barry Mill - By Phyllis Anderson

Having twice caught a tantalising glimpse of vivid blue which could only have been a kingfisher, I came a step closer to seeing one on Thursday evening. While walking the faithful mutts on the path past the pond, a familiar blue flash shot past and flew up the middle of the burn before landing on a branch hanging over the burn. Perhaps next time I should take the binoculars I was given for just such an occasion. No picture I am afraid so one from the archive.