Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland

Partner organisation: University of Glasgow, Dumfries & Galloway

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Summary of Activity

The Crichton Centre for Research in Health and Social Issues, which is one of the Older People for Older People: O4O partners, is undertaking an assessment of the needs of older people in rural areas. This is being carried out in four locations across Dumfries and Galloway. These are Garlieston, St John’s Town of Dalry, Sanquhar and Eskdalemuir.  

Sanquhar

The Royal Burgh of Sanquhar is a small town which lies approximately 30 miles north of Dumfries. The current population of the town is 2628, of which 35% are over 55 years old.

The community is well served by a range of services including railway station, health centre, swimming pool, pharmacy, post office, library, primary and secondary schools and a variety of shops selling a range of grocery and household items. Travel to Dumfries, a journey of around one hour, is required to access additional services such as the hospital, cinema and a wider range of retail outlets.

The main industry was formerly mining, which has now virtually disappeared leaving little in the way of alternative employment opportunities. The larger employers in the town are Brocks Fireworks, Century Aluminium, EME Furniture and Sanquhar Tile Services.

Sanquhar is rich in history boasting the oldest Post Office in the world founded in 1712 and still operational today, there are many monuments and commemorative plaques to be found along the High Street and elsewhere, the Bowling Club was established in 1871 and August 2010 sees the 100th anniversary of the annual Riding of the Marches event (http://www.uppernithsdale-events.org). The remains of Sanquhar castle can be seen when approaching the town by road from the south. Much of the stone from the castle was used to build the tollhouse in 1735. Formerly a gaol and now used as a museum this building is one of the only surviving examples of its type designed by the famous Scottish architect William Adam.

The countryside surrounding Sanquhar affords some beautiful views from most parts of the town. The long distance coast to coast path, The Southern Upland Way, passes through the town and is a stopping point for many walkers on the route.