PLANNING for the future will top the agenda at a community meeting to be held in Tweedsmuir Village Hall a the weekend.

A range of top speakers will give talks and demonstrations on successful projects from across the country.

And the latest plans for the Crook Inn will also be unveiled.

Learning from Others – Vision and Planning in a Rural Community runs from 10am until 2pm.

Duncan Davidson, chairman of the Tweedsmuir Community Company, said: “This meeting is very important for Upper Tweed and other rural communities.

“It will share the experiences of communities that have tackled some important issues such community transport, local arts and educational activities, the support of small business, managing community pubs and renovation older buildings for new 21st century uses.

“The latest plans for the Crook Inn will also be revealed. We are very keen to share the knowledge and experiences of others rural groups to develop, invigorate and support the community.” The aim of the meeting is to draw upon the experiences of individuals, rural groups or communities to inform and inspire residents of Upper Tweed and others on the scope for projects that can develop, invigorate and support the community.

Amongst the speakers will be Cathy Agnew, who has created a thriving community arts centre at CatStrand in New Galloway, Julie Nock, who has developed successful projects in the Ettrick and Yarrow valleys, Paul Greaves, who will report on a study tour of community pubs in Yorkshire, and Jamie Bateman from the Creetown Initiative.

Christine Parker will also discuss how a community hub was created in Eskdalemuir, and Cara Gillespie from Foundation Scotland will explain funding processes.

Anyone from the Upper Tweed community or has an interest in sustainable communities is invited to the meeting. To book your place, contact Christine Parker at parkerpolmoodlodge@tiscali.co.uk or 01899 880 329.