URGENT UPDATE: BIRKNESS

At the present time the main access track remains blocked by a large section of tree, and access to Birkness is via the Hassness/Dalegarth entrance.
If you are planning to visit Birkness in the near future, please take note of the following:
Stay well away from the obstruction on the upper track and from the electricity substation
and do not attempt to move any branches from these areas.
The section of tree on the track could become unstable, the tree overhanging the obstruction is in a potentially dangerous state and there is a branch resting on the electricity substation.
Northwest Electricity will despatch someone as soon as possible (hopefully today 29th January or tomorrow) to check both the substation and the overhanging tree, and I am currently in discussion with a Dalegarth representative to have the obstruction cleared (hopefully leaving the wood for our use!), and to have all trees on Dalegarth land adjacent to our property inspected as a matter of urgency.
I am also aware there is a slate off the Cottage roof & evidence of others lifted by the recent storm.
All the above will be sorted asap, and to this end there will be some contractor comings and goings during the next couple of weeks.
The power is on and there is no visible damage to the substation, however Electricity North West may need to turn off the power for a time in order to carry out a thorough inspection. There is plenty of coal in stock to keep warm by the fire. You may want to bring an extra torch and spare batteries just in case.

Jackie Brindle