Tuesday 28th November saw the handing over of a cheque for £600 - the proceeds of a successful sponsored walk up Ben Ledi to help raise funds for our work. Organised by the Callander and West Perthshire Rotary Club, the walk took place on 10th June. 80% of the funds raised by the walkers was given to Artlink Central, plus a one third share of the remaining 20% of the total raised by everybody. The remaining two thirds were donated to CHAS, Hearing Dogs and some local organisations chosen by the Rotary Club. We would like to thank the Rotary Club for their wonderful continued support.

This year, a departure from the pantomime format resulted in 'Olivia Twist' - a piece of music theatre that developed the existing skills that the girls have showcased in previous shows. In twelve days, the girls committed dialogue, staging, choreography and lyrics to memory to skilfully produce and perform a slick show that was a testament to their hard work and talent.

With stage and musical direction by Elly Goodman and Brian McAlpine, respectively, stage management by our Strathclyde University student, Morgan Jaye, script support by Kirstie Baillie and set by Sarah Kenchington, the show was a fabulous ground-breaker.

The eighth Annual Exhibition of work produced by individuals cared for by the Forth Valley Primary and Acute Operating Divisions is currently on display at the Smith Art Gallery and Museum, Dumbarton Road, Stirling FK8 2RQ. The arts projects, organised by Artlink Central, have involved those with learning difficulties, the elderly, and those with mental or physical health issues, and have taken place over the last 12 months. The groups and artists have again proven that access to quality arts activities achieves quality results. This is a not-to-be-missed, vibrant display of talent in ceramics, silk-painting, painting, collage, jewellery, printmaking, felt-making, screen-printing, glass-painting, photography, and paper-making.Opened by Provost Colin O'Brien on Tuesday 28th November, it runs until the end of December 2006.

Artlink Central together with the Falkirk Schools involved in workshops this year saw the opening of the Children's Exhibition at The Lesser Gallery, Falkirk Town Hall on Wednesday 22nd November. All participants, family and friends were welcome and the children particularly enjoyed the activities laid on for them. The Exhibition will run until 20th December.

With the help of Ursula Heidecker, Tracey Wilson and Lesley-Anne Smith, as well as Samantha and Mandy - our students from RSAMD - our music group delighted an audience of fifty on the 7th December with original festive songs, traditional carols and a special Nativity in broad scots by Gregor. A highlight of the concert was a moving composition written by Marion and sung by the group. The concert was dedicated to Lynn Pirie, who sadly passed away in October, and was a treasured member of the music group.

For the first time, Artlink Central has produced its own calendar to celebrate the work of the participants. Generously sponsored by Budget Auto Centre; The Tree House, Bridge of Allan; Boquhan Estates; Margaret Blackwood Housing; Tak Tent Cancer Support; The Sunlite Cafe; McFarlane Gray, printing.com@tangerine, and Framed Images, the calendar is on sale for £5 and is available from the office.

Finally, Artlink Central would like to thank everybody for their wonderful unfailing support this year. We wish you all happy holidays and a fabulous new year.