This episode is a conversation with Christine Leach of Balevulin, Tiroran.

Originally from near Portsmouth, Christine has lived on Mull for many years.

Christine runs Pennyghael in the Past Historical Archive.

PPHA is a remarkable archive full of the most interesting materials that shines light onto the history of Brolas and its surrounds.

I’ve always found Brolas here on Mull to be a very tricky area to define. There are Macleans of Duart, Lochbuie and Brolas, Duart and Lochbuie are easy enough to locate in your mind, but Brolas less so.

It is for that reason and many more, that I wanted to talk with Christine.

Christine’s book Hebridean Healers, about the medieval Beaton family, who were located at Pennycross is out now and very much worth your while. It’s a great resource to explore Mull’s past. Christine was joined by Andrea Cameron, Elizabeth Carter and Miek Zwambourn in the writing of the book.

We also talk about Christine’s journey to coming to live on Mull, what brought her here and how it swiftly began to feel like home. There are many names mentioned from that past that I know many listeners will be delighted to hear again.

Christine has given me loads of photos to help illustrate her story, so do have a look at whatwedointhewinter.com for episode links and more info.

Thanks for listening!