The Merkinch Community Council is entering the Merkinch community for the Scottish Community of the Year. There are Five categories

1. Environment
   What has been or is being done in your community to enhance and maintain it’s physical environment? Are there any conservation or restoration programmes in places.
2. Business
   How do local businesses contribute to the life of your community? What employment opportunities do they provide for local people? Do the businesses present any environmental difficulties, and if so, how are they addressed?
3. Young People
   What local facilities are provided for the younger age groups in your community? Is there a creche? Do pre-school and after school groups exist? Are there facilities for teenagers such as drop-in centres or youth clubs? Are young people involved in decisions which affect the community? Does your community council include representation from the under 25s?
4. Older People
   What facilities and services are made available for retired people in your community? How does your community support it’s elders? Are there schemes to assist with transport, gardening and housework? What provisions are made for the house-bound?
5. Community Life
   What activities and events take place which endanger community spirit? How is community news communicated? (e.g. newsletter, notice boards etc.) How does your community welcome visitors? What provision is made for young people with disabilities? What communal facilities exist? e.g. sports halls, community centres etc. Are there any special projects or activities unique to your community?

Members of the Community Council will be contacting local and national organisations, but would also like to gauge public opinion.

Please put your idea’s / opinions into writing and submit it to either

There is no Community Council Meeting for August because they deserve a rest as much as anybody!

Normal service will be resumed in September.

Check out future issues for details