In July 2005, inspired by the efforts and achievements made in the neighbouring village of Scotlandwell, a few locals decided it was time to do something to enhance the village of Kinnesswood.  Our first meeting took place a few weeks before the local "Best Kept Village" competition and although we knew we had little chance of winning it gave us the impetus to form "Kinnesswood in Bloom" and begin our campaign in earnest.

We started slowly using our own resources; leafleting the community produced welcome suggestions, generous donations and efforts to involve the whole community of Portmoak, we recently organised a presentation by Euna Scott Co-ordinator of "Take a Pride in Perthshire".  The enthusiastic talk and slideshow produced lots of fresh ideas and it looks as though we're going to be busy planning fundraisers and community events in the New Year.

• So, what have we actually achieved in the last few months?  We've planted and positioned 12 barrels throughout the village, tidied up and enhanced a number of areas including gap sites, the war memorial, the bus stop areas and village entry and exit points.  The Michael Bruce Museum Garden has been transformed.  Lots of weeding and strimming of road verges and other common areas has been done, bulbs and wild flowers have been planted in the verges and we've even managed to persuade the relevant body to cut back a very neglected banking that runs along the path beside the Golf Course.
• Though not everyone is involved in the physical aspects of the projects, ideas, suggestions and words of encouragement keep rolling in from the villagers.
• We get the sense that residents are enjoying it all as much as the Kinnesswood in Bloom team members are.  Everyone stops to chat while we're "at work".  It's a great way to make new friends, keep fit and have a laugh.

What's next?

• Hopefully we can build on the success of the small projects for a while then consider tackling some of the "dream" ones (like the park and a new village square!).

Springtime's going to be very busy but great fun......................................................