If you ever want to break your journey between Hutton and Stranraer-and postpone your arrival in that dreary town, let me recommend Kirkcudbright.All those concerned
with Planning in the Scottish Borders should be sent on a visit to this 'Artists Town' to learn how development should be done. This is no geriatric hidey hole so disliked by Farmer C but a vibrant thriving community built around its reputation as the St Ives of the North as one local modestly described it. No urbam sprawl, very few ugly buildings-a pity about the milk factory and the town itself has been lovingly preserved at the initiative of the local people who have a 'sense of place' and a pride in it. (A bit different from Fishwick, one might think) Obviously it is a haven for the well heeled, the galleries offer works of art at West End prices, stinking rich boat people lurk on their huge gin palaces in the Marina but there is plenty of affordable housing, well built and attractive. At a distance from big cities most housing is very good value.And the balance between the tourist and the local has been well struck. Put up an 'Orchard' here a la Paxton it would be torn down over night. Mind you it would never get off the drawing board. And any local farmers looking for a Fishwick type 'development'any where near Kirkcudbright would be hounded out of the Stewartry of Galloway by locals armed with paint brushes and the odd heat seeking missile. So Farmers C and N for your own comfort and safety........

The images above are mostly to do with one of the major 'sights' of the town which
is the former home of the Scottish 'colourist' artist EA Hornel (see portrait) who lived in Broughton House and designed its stunning garden. It is now a National Trust of Scotland property.There is so much to see in Kirkcudbright with its many galleries, good eateries and all set in a very pleasing little town. One oddity which was the statue to commermorate a long ago fishing tragedy. It seemed a bit off key (if not, indeed, off message) from the rest of the town.  ¶ 8:04 AM