Published in Scotland Magazine Issue 2 on 5/6/2002.

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Fiona Armstrong's Dumfries and Galloway

The broadcaster and writer manages to combine a high-profile media career with a rural existence

Fiona has worked for ITN and the BBC, helps front Border TV’s evening news and has her own production company, Border Heritage. She has written two fishing books and a cookbook and writes for magazines and newspapers.

Q: How long have you lived in Dumfries & Galloway?
A: For the past 10 years. Before that I lived south of the border in Cumbria. I married a man from Dumfries & Galloway.

Q: Is it possible to balance a busy career with a rural existence?
A: The two work perfectly together.The coutryside helps unravel the stresses of a busy career. But you have to be prepared to travel: we are Scotland’s best kept secret but we are a bit cut off from the big cities.

Q: Describe the region to someone who has never visited.
A: It’s a gem of a place – unspoiled, fewer visitors than places like Edinburgh and the Highlands, yet such stunning scenery, such history and such lovely people.

Q: What are the main attractions of Dumfries & Galloway?
A: Its history – places like Caerlaverock Castle, seat of the Maxwells; Gretna Green, home of runaway marriages;its fabulous coastline: gardens like the Logan Botanic and those at Castle Kennedy near Stranraer; its wildlife reserves.

Q: What’s the best thing about Dumfries & Galloway?
A: Scotland’s best kept secret. We are so lovely and peaceful here, yet there’s so much to see and do.

Q: And the worst?
A: The weather on occasion. Apparently, Eskdalemuir is one of the wettest places in Britain.

Q: Has devolution changed Dumfr.....

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By Marcin Miller

Section : Questions and Answers

Page number : 54