As we embark on this new weekly column, it's important to start with a fundamental question: What is our culture?

In a place as rich and diverse as Clackmannanshire, defining culture is not an easy task. Culture isn’t just about the arts or entertainment—it’s about our shared experiences, traditions, and values that make this community so unique.

Culture is the music we play, the stories we tell, the way we gather to celebrate, and the art that we create. It’s how we live our daily lives, from the food we share at local events to the memories passed down through generations.

Culture is not static; it’s alive, evolving with each new generation, with each new voice contributing to the ever-changing fabric of our community.

But what does culture mean to you? For some, it might be the historical landmarks dotted across our towns, like the iconic Alloa Tower.

For others, it’s the local artists and musicians who express the spirit of the area. And for some, it’s the small moments—like a cup of tea shared with friends at a local café or the laughter of children at a weekend fair—that best define the heart of Clackmannanshire.

Our county is made up of many diverse settlements, each with its own story to tell. From the rich industrial heritage of Alloa, to the scenic landscapes surrounding Sauchie and Tullibody, to the vibrant, close-knit communities in Tillicoultry, Dollar, and Alva, every part of Clackmannanshire contributes its own flavour to our collective identity.

The blend of rural beauty and urban history gives us a unique cultural mosaic that reflects the strength and creativity of our people. It’s this diversity of experience, tradition, and background that makes our community so dynamic and full of possibility.

This weekly column will aim to investigate, discover, and celebrate the wide array of cultural experiences that our area has to offer. From the theatre shows, concerts, and exhibitions, to the local events that bring our community together, we will be highlighting the best of culture and entertainment in Clackmannanshire. But most importantly, I want to hear from you.

What do you think defines our culture? What stories, events, and experiences shape Clackmannanshire today? Whether you’re an artist, a musician, a local business owner, or someone who just loves living here, this column is for you.

I invite you to join the conversation, share your thoughts, and help us all understand what makes Clackmannanshire such a special place to live. Together, we’ll explore the richness of our local culture and celebrate the many ways in which it thrives, week after week.