Ballater & Crathie Eagle, Issue 64, Winter 2011 by Faye Swan

Ballater & crathie Community magazine no.64 xmas/hogmanay 2011/12 ÂŁ1 where sold

Alfresco book club meet see page 20

Private Preview see page 9

Clean sweep of appreciation see page 36

Special visitor at Crathie School see page 21

The Eagle Team wish you all a Fabulous Festive Season! The Ballater & Crathie Eagle is made possible by:

Advertising, Donations, Sponsorship, Fundraising, "Awards for All" Lottery and Cairngorms Leader+ European funding. Thank You. We deliver FREE from Crathie to Cambus Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;May. Thanks to Friends of the Eagle for delivering to some outlying areas.

Postie Pic by John Holley

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Abody within a radius o’ ten yairds started tae sniff roon aboot, for it wis a smell like rotten eggs that wid hae sunk a battleship! Jean just sat there, calm an innocent as ye like, newsin awa aboot naethin’ ava tae the meenister lad, fa hid his hunkie tae his face – his verra e’en were waterin! Worse wis tae come! Willie hid gorged himself on steak an ingins as weel, syne hid a gweed feow drams wi his cronies. Fit wi the maet, the whisky an the nerves in his stamack at the thocht o’ speechifyin, fan he got tae his feet his belly just did a flip o’er, an afore he could say a wird, he spewed a o’er the table afore him. There wis a deathly hush for a twa, three seconds, syne there wis a muckle stampede o’ fowk tae the doors, ane or twa cowkin in tae their hauns. “Fit an affront!” thocht Jean as she socht

tae cover up the table wi napkins an console peer Flossie fa wis roarin an greetin. Fit a thing tae happen, for Jean kent she’d niver live it doon – Bella doon the road, wid craw like a cock aboot this for wiks. Come time, the tablecloth wis whippit aff an air fresheners sprayed aroon. Willie got some waater an Flossie dichted her reed e’en an snottery nib. Fowk cam driftin back, tryin tae forget the disaster at the table. There wis aye the dancin an drinkin tae come, an efter the gweed present they’d gien, they winted their money’s worth. “Weel, I winna forget my weddin day in a hurry!” thocht Flossie as she heitered roon the fleer wi her new man. As for Jean, she wis in her element, as she oxtered the wee sharger o’ a meenister roon the dance fleer. She wis “The Mither o’ the Bride” an she wis gaen tae mak the maist o’ it fitever happened!

STUART ESSON PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEER

Warm Winter Welcome

to your festive Eagle As the long cold dark nights are upon us, brighten up your life with what’s on, what the local groups are doing, some fabulous fresh new writing, a wee surprise for one nonegenerian and even a poem and a cartoon! Put your feet up and enjoy! Diary

Local Groups:

The dates you need: 4-5 Ballater Royal Horticultural Society: 8

The Crathie Pages Group news and School: 20 & 21

L OCAL EXPERIENCED A WARD WINNING K NOWLEDGEABLE INDUSTRIOUS EFFICIENT

BRHS Floral Art Group: 9 Ballater (Royal Deeside) Ltd: 15

The Weddin By Mary Munro: 53

BOVOF: 10

Ballater School

CLAN: 12

They have been busy: 28 & 29

Community Council: 13

Eagle & Robin

RD&C DMO: 17

Cartoon and more about Luke: 30 Rotary: 33

Pottering About Weather, Willow and wandering: 48

SWRI: 14 Upper Deeside Art Society: 9

Local History Christmas greenery: 38

TEL: 013397 56378 MOBILE: 07786 543100

Upper Deeside Music: 24

V&A Minutes

V & A Halls: 23

From the 20s:44

Victoria Week: 19

Ozymandias of the Arrigation A new serialised story from wee Chis: 40

Advertising: Full page: £60; Half page: £30; Quarter page: £20; Eighth page: £10

Please contact Faye Swan at info@swandesign.uk.com or Tel.55345

Donations: Donations are gratefully received, and acknowledged. You can also put money into our tins at various local establishments.

Eagle Eyes...

The Weddin

by Mary Munro December Sat 3

Christmas Fair, Ballater School, 11am-2pm Bring a Party to a Party, Ballater Golf Club, £25pp Sun 4 Christingle Service, St Kentigern’s, 9.30am Upper Deeside Music, Darroch Learg Hotel, 4.30pm Mon 5 Christmas Special Coffee, Crathie Kirk, 10am-12.30pm BRHS: Eric Baird: “The Landscape of Glen Tanar”, Mike Sheridan Room, 7.30pm Tue 6, 13 & 20 Advent Holy Communion, St Kentigern’s, 9.30am Wed 7 Ballater Business Association Meeting, 7.30pm, Glen Lui Hotel Sat 10 Christmas Fair, Victoria Hall, 10.30-4pm please contact Bell, on 55745 for a table Sun 11 High-Level Winter Walk with Balmoral Rangers, meet Glen Muick Visitor Centre, 9.30am Ballater Boules, Monaltrie Park, 10.30am Mon 12 B & C Community Council Meeting, 7pm Mike Sheridan Room Sun 18 Glenmuick Christingle service 11am St Kentigerns “9 lessons & carols” 4pm Tue 20 Last posting date for Christmas (first class) Fri 23 Ballater School term ends School service, Glenmuick, 11am Sat 24 Ballater Post Office closes 12.30pm Santa and his Reindeer, Kirk Green, 11.30am –12.30pm Glenmuick: carols 11.15, watchnight 11.30pm Midnight Communion Service, St Kentigern’s, 11.30pm Christmas Mass, St Nathalan’s, 8pm Sun 25 Holy Communion Service, St Kentigern’s, 9.30am Family service Glenmuick, 10.30am - bring favourite toy! Mon 26 Ballater Post Office, Chemist and Surgery closed Tue 27 Ballater Post Office, Chemist and Library closed Ballater Surgery open 9am-12 for emergencies only Boules for the Golden Boules Trophy, Monaltrie Park, 10.30am Sat 31 Hogmanay Party, Ballater Golf Club, £20pp

January Sun 1 Mon 2

Lunch and Karaoke, Ballater Golf Club, £12pp Ballater Post Office, Chemist and Surgery closed Boules for the New Year Quaich, Monaltrie Park, 10.30am

Jock and Jean were fair trickit fan Flossie, their ae yowe lammie, cam in aboot ae day wi the news that she wis tae be merried in June. It didna maitter a docken that her chiel, Willie, an her hid been bidin thegither for near twa year – they were tae dee the dacent thing noo, an sae Jean wis fair determined that it wid be a fite weddin, wi a the falderals – it wid be a “reed-letter” day in their gey hum drum life. Wi a gweed deal o narkin fae Jean, they sat doon tae mak a list o’ a the things tae be deen. “We’ll hae tae invite a the Aunties, even Aggie, worse luck. She’s a richt affront that ane, bit she’s faimily. She michtna come – we can bit hope!” Jean wis real wun-up aboot the hale thing, an Jock’s heid wis bizzin like a bees’ byke or lang. It wis like that for wiks – the kirk, the flooers, the cake, the cars. Syne Jean rakit Aiberdeen lookin for a frock. She wis a fair size o’ a deem – wi a gweed grip o’ Scotland wi creashy lurks an faulds roon her kite, an sae Jock goggled in horror fan she paraded afore him ae nicht in a yalla bell-tent o’ a frock wi navy blue flooers clarted a o’er it. Jock said, “Aye, aye, that’ll dee fine!”, for he wis a typical North-easter, a man o’ feow wirds, an onythin for a quaet life wis his motto. Time flew by, an seen presents started tae come in aboot. “Fit the hell div I need fower kettles for?” Flossie girned tae her mither, bit Jean soothed her doon. “They’ll aye keep – ye’ll hae a kettle a yer days”. The groom wis a postie an his pals catched him ae nicht an gied him a richt blackenin, syne ringin a haun-bell, they trailed him in a hurlie roon the village – a richt target he wis, clarted wi diesel ile an feathers. A “feet washin” wis supposed tae bring gweed luck,

bit Willie hid a plooky kine o’ skin, an sae wi a the scrubbin an sweelin, his physog broke oot in a sotter o’ prood flesh an skelfs for days aifterhin. The nicht afore the weddin, Jean hid them for their tea, an they hid a great feed o’ steak, chips an fried ingins. Jean wis tae live tae regret thae ingins! The day o’ the weddin wis fine, an it a went fine if ye ignored the fact that Aggie hoasted an spluttered a the time in the kirk, near droonin oot the meenister. Syne at the “sit-doon”, thon ingins fae the nicht afore started tae come back tae Jean – fae baith ends! Sittin there like a flooery Queen of Sheba, she wis haein tae let aff thon saft, pluffery farts fae time tae time. The stink wis something terrible. They were wirin awa at the puddin fan Jean hid tae let aff a bosker.

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and able to supply their own stone independent of the local laird and his quarry. The granite at Cambus o’May was also much finer grained than the red stone of the Pass and much easier to cut and dress. The shift to the Cambus quarries did not please the Farquharson lairds at Invercauld House who had gained the Monaltrie estate on William’s death. After the railway reached Ballater in 1866, the Invercauld Estate was swamped with requests to buy building land in Ballater. The estate was quite happy to oblige, but with conditions attached, one demanding that the proposed house be built of granite won and paid for from the old quarries on Invercauld ground round the Pass of Ballater. That monopoly on building stone meant that the rough red Pass of Ballater granite got a new lease of life, and explains how the vast majority of the houses continued to be

Aboyne Van Hire

built of that granite long after the Cambus quarries came into operation. We have to wait until the Edwardian days, with their final boom of building, for the Cambus quarries really to come into their own, quite briefly as it happened, before the hard, white Kemnay granite came steaming up the valley on railway trucks to face the great villas we see today on Braemar and Queen’s Roads. As we continue up the track from the Pass road we find mature firs blocking the path of what had been the horse-and-cart track up to the quarries. Almost two hundred years have passed and nature has been reclaiming her hill for a long time. The track is built as steep as a horse could climb, but of one thing we can be sure, the return trip with a loaded cart of granite would have required a second horse chained behind to hold the load back till level ground was reached. Once we reach the quarry level, there are still traces of the rough shelter where the masons lunched and doubtless sheltered from the worst of the weather. The granite here is very coarse with large crystals; indicating that it had cooled very slowly, allowing the constituent minerals, the micas, the feldspar and indeed the quartz crystals, to form individually. Under such conditions, and in this locality, are found the Cairngorms crystals.

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...so you know What's Going On 5

Tue 3 Mon 9 Tue 10 Sun 15 Wed 18 Mon 23 Wed 25 Sun 29

Ballater Post Office, Chemist and Library closed Ballater Surgery open 9am-12 for emergencies only Ballater School term starts CLAN Walking Group, check with the CLAN Centre Boules, Monaltrie Park, 10.30am SWRI: Scottish Night, Entertainment & Sales Table, Albert Hall, 7.30pm Church Guild Afternoon Tea, Glen Muick Church Hall, 2.30pm Second Chancers, CLAN Support Group, Ballater Golf Club, 4pm Boules, Monaltrie Park, 10.30am

February

Sun 12 Tue 14 Wed 15 Sun 26 Mon 27 Wed 29

Mon 6 BRHS: Chris Wardle: “How Crathes Works, An insight behind the scenes”, Mike Sheridan Room, 7.30pm Boules, Monaltrie Park, 10.30am CLAN Walking Group, check with the CLAN Centre SWRI: Fire Service by Barry Florence, Mike Sheridan Room, 7.30pm Boules, Monaltrie Park, 10.30am Upper Deeside Music, Darroch Learg Hotel, 4.30pm Church Guild: Speaker Rev Ian Strachan, Glenmuick Church Hall, 2.30pm CLAN Support Group, Second Chancers, Ballater Golf Club, 4pm

March Fri 2 Mon 5

World Day of Prayer, Glenmuick Church, 6.30pm BRHS: Andy Beckingham: “Gardens in Glen Tanar, past, present and future”, Mike Sheridan Room, 7.30pm Wed 21 SWRI: Horseback UK by Jock Hutchison, Mike Sheridan Room, 7.30pm

Ballater Surgery: All emergencies outwith the normal times please tel: 013397 55686 OR NHS 24: 08454 242424

Are Your Dates Here? For inclusion in this FREE section of the Eagle, please contact Cat Houston on 55243, mob: 07968 941359 (texts welcome) email: catrionahouston@yahoo.co.uk

Letter from our Editor

winter indicates, r e v o c t n o As our fr still gets eaders, oyal Mail R e ue of th t u Dear R b same is tr er more, e h e c T n o r. e s u th r lett wea is with atrocious gle to you a e E it e sp e th d r e through ho deliv osties, f people w at they, p the team o must be grateful th ealth centre staff, we done. nderful h l shops are box, and rs, our wo ple working in loca them, to get the job re a c y it n to the es peo commu ful thanks eather fac rkers and te w o ra w r g e v d r a te u a ro o h w ss from the council le through Team, I must expre on to Eagle funds tt a b to d ti healthier na gle prepare of the Ea enerous do ings look somewhat makes g lf a ry h e e v b a n O sult, th which ittee for eek comm nt. As a re sort of co-operation Victoria W from this year’s eve is th gs. de ont. It is of dwellin ” in surplus ma financial fr to just a gathering and Robin n e th le g n a o E “ le g n d a o se o E c o rt a p e a op Str ha ec for th munity, as return of th time ago, and Luke Crathie m e o c th a e c r ti te o a e tn Balla itially som l to Luke, ill no doub Readers w rt series appeared in are extremely gratefu en our community A sho us. We to enliv e are also this issue. others for and talent e e m m so ti r l talent, w e a is c h th e lo g g f in o to iv t t g c u p her pencil subje , for has issue, with in London us cartoon. On the is g th in rk in o w in Gow ’s Gow oro lad ay be seen as writh his hum rk of young Eilidh it m w rk e o in w z a r mag e wo of he lents, such azine highlight th n. Other examples h other ta it w e happy to ur mag g so la il il v the etty W lp make o in e B h m f le o d p n o it a e p , ra agle port ung t items fro s more yo ntact the E er all, we highligh Let’s see p o a c t rh e h P ig . m li De etr y s. Aft r y pupils. ories or po generation m seconda o fr ing short st appeal across the s u to to ing comes alf of something , but noth . On beh ls le o g o a h E sc e y s th les a the primar ho support contributors of artic w . o e d n o n y a r c e y ou to ev what you rtisers and Ian Ha e, thank y ders, adve a re r u o Meanwhil ll ish a Team, I w s 2012. the Eagle prosperou d n a y h lt a happy, he

By Popular Demand! Ballater Library opening Hours: Sunday & Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10am-1pm, 6.30pm-8pm Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 2-4pm, 6.30pm-8pm Friday: 2-5pm Saturday: 10am-12noon

Pass of Ballater Silver Mine 51 Part 1 by Ian Cameron As youngsters, we often climbed about in the Pass of Ballater. Usually we were trying to reach the nests of the ravens, which still lived there in the 1940s. When the ravens defeated us, we would start looking for strange rocks. There was, and still is, a vertical mineral vein that runs up over the top of the cliff giving up many different crystals, lithium ores, green microcline, fluorite and beryl. On a compass setting, the vein travels north to a hidden valley that had been an early run-off channel for the impounded glacial ice-melt waters trying to escape downvalley, at a time before the Pass of Ballater had been eroded out. The erosion there is still active today, as was shown one day in the spring of 2004 when a huge mass of rock fell off the cliffs, the resultant shock waves being recorded by the British Geological Survey’s instruments in Edinburgh. The easiest way to reach this hidden valley from the Pass is by starting at the gate on the bridge at the Fog House. This was Francis Farquharson’s work after he returned from exile in England following his exploits in the 1745 rising. The Fog House was a folly built into the bank of the Loin burn that flows through the Pass. It would have been constructed at the same time as the bridge that gave access to the granite quarries on the hill above. Its name stems from the roofing of heather and moss (fog). Farquharson’s Monaltrie House was built in 1782 from the red granite that he quarried here. The early 1780s would have been a busy time in the Pass of Ballater quarries, as apart from Monaltrie House stone, the first Ballater Bridge that opened to traffic in

1783 was being built from granite won here. You can still follow the track, traversing the hill that accessed the various levels where Francis Farquharson quarried the building stone from large boulders on the steep scree slope. Not only did Francis Farquarson use those quarries for the stones of Monaltrie House and Ballater’s first bridge, but his successor, William Farquharson, built the original Monaltrie Arms Hotel, the farm buildings that went with the hotel, and most of the early houses of Bridge Square of this same rough red granite. The shift to the Cambus o’May quarries came later, with the local masons leasing quarries there from the Marquis of Huntly, so becoming contractors in their own right

La Mangiatoia Ristorante & Pizzeria Closed from Sunday 20 November for annual holidays. Re-open Tuesday 27 December

Bridge Square Ballater Tel. 013397-55999

subway downtown to join the Occupy Wall Street protesters. Bit of a no-brainer really. Especially after talking to the family who all agreed Zell would have been proud of me to do so. To say nothing of my eldest, who wouldn’t have forgiven me if I’d not taken some camaraderie from Scotland. So I went to Liberty Square, met some really interesting folk, listened to some of their stories, had some excellent conversations and was delighted to show my solidarity. It was a life affirming experience doing what I felt was right. That feeling will help keep me warm this winter. Whatever you do over the cold months, I wish you all as much joy and engagement in life…

“Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened” Dr Seuss

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Ballater Post Of f ice Seasons Greetings

from all of us at your Post Office

Hours of Opening: Mon: 9am - 5.30pm Tues: 9am - 5.30pm Weds: 9am - 5.30pm Thurs: 9am - 12.30pm Fri: 9am - 5.30pm Sat: 9am - 12.30pm Please note we are OPEN over lunchtime

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SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT: Dennis Robertson MSP email: dennis.robertson.msp@scottish parliament .uk

WESTMINSTER: Sir Robert Smith MP

01330 820330, Fax: 01330 820338, e-mail: robert.smith.mp@parliament.uk

ABERDEENSHIRE COUNCIL: Peter Argyle: 013398 82973 email: cllr.p.argyle@aberdeenshire.gov.uk Rosemary Bruce 013398 89318 email: cllr.r.bruce@aberdeenshire.gov.uk Marcus Humphrey : 013398 85332 email: cllr.m.humphrey@aberdeenshire.gov.uk

CAIRNGORMS NATIONAL PARK: Katrina Farquar 013398 81006 email: info@katrinafarquar.co.uk

Eagle Who's Who & Where Editor: Ian Hay 55941 Treasurer: Dr. Sheila Sedgwick 55292 Secretary: Betty Wilson 55791 Advertising Manager: Faye Swan 55345 Distribution: Andy and Julie Bloor Diary Secretary: Cat Houston 55243 Design Team: Stella Potter, Ollie Ross, Cat Houston, Karen Major Email us at: ballater.eagle@btopenworld.com Eagle Online: http://www.ballatercommunity.com

If you would like a large print version of the Eagle, please contact Ballater Library, 55628

Local Group News

Ballater Royal Horticultural Society by Jim Clark By the time you read this, our new session will be well underway with our AGM having taken place on Monday 7 November, followed by a talk entitled Highland Charm, by Eric Jensen, a most entertaining speaker. The Society has a number of committee vacancies, which at the time of writing, hopefully will be filled at the AGM. Please support the Society by renewing your membership. All new members will be made most welcome. Refreshments are always available at the end of the meetings where one has the opportunity to discuss any points with

the guest speaker, meet new people and catch up with friends. We have an exciting programme planned with a meeting on 5 December with a talk by Eric Baird on the Landscape of Glen Tanar. Chris Wardle from Crathes will speak at our February meeting about How Crathes Works â&#x20AC;&#x201C; An Insight Behind the Scenes. Please look out for future events in the Eagle diary and on the various posters located throughout the village. Congratulations to all the prize winners at our annual Exhibition and Flower Show held in August and in particular to Hazel Bruce, winner of our best garden competition. We look forward to seeing you at our meetings.

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was correct. All the time I was away, I never wore the one cardi I took. My sandals, however, were all the footwear worn, with the travelling addition of very uncool fluffy socks. Comfort comes before any semblance of fashion sense for me, as those who know me could doubtless testifyâ&#x20AC;Ś Bit of an aside. The biggest thing that bugs me most about winter here is that I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t contemplate going out of the door without a whole new layer of clothing boots, hat, gloves, coat, scarf, sometimes snow shovel or ice grips on my boots too. In the summer if I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind being occasionally damp, and remember never to wear crocs when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wet â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had the bruises to prove thatâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; I can just walk out of the door. Back to New York. What a wonderful weekend it was, despite the many hours travelling. It was tremendous to meet up with so many of the family again. Zellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

eldest daughter and a delightful couple who were gay retired Episcopalian ministers led the ceremony. I was so happy to be able to speak on behalf of my daughters and me. It was an uplifting, fitting and joyous ceremony. We finished by singing â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Battle Hymn of the Republicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; which initially seemed a very odd choice until we were told that the lyrics were written by Zellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatgrandmother and singing it at the end of every family funeral is a tradition she wished to carry on. I was delighted to do so. Normally I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have sung such a song but I made an exception, giving it laldy in memory of a wonderful woman. Returning south to New York city I had a choice as to how to spend my three hours before going to the airport- contribute to the acquisition culture by shopping, or take the

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Pottering About . . . by Stella Potter

Ho hum, I note winter is back. I had to rush out to bring in the washing because it was snowing in early October. My heart sank. Will the many harbingers of doom speculating on the severity of this winter be proved right? Will we Home Carers yet again spend weeks trudging through deep snow at even sillier o’clock in the morning so we can reach everyone? Will I wear through 2 pairs of snowboots again this winter? Have I stacked enough wood to keep the stove going? And, of course, the killer question: just why is it that I live here when I detest the white stuff so much? I’ll perhaps try and answer some of these in a later issue… Just as the weather suddenly cooled, Willow, our half wildcat, returned from his

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summer jaunt to wherever it is he goes. He seems pretty healthy and has wasted no time whatsoever in getting the household running after him again. Sleeping in his usual place - the warmest room of the house - when he wakes he starts meowing on the assumption, I presume, that he needs to alert the house that he’s awake and putting his servants on standby. As he saunters downstairs the meowing gets louder, not ceasing until he’s been thoroughly stroked and had enough due attention paid with interest. We know who rules the roost round here, and it sure isn’t me!! In September, after a long and well-lived life, my brother’s mother-in-law, Zell, had a peaceful, dignified and loving death. My daughters and I liked her very much, having spent some glorious weeks over the years at her house in Thousand Islands. (yes, where the salad dressing comes from, and they’re islands in the St Lawrence at the USA/ Canada border). A memorial ceremony at Thousand Islands was planned for early October. I checked my diary. It was do-able with a wee juggle. I could almost hear my Mum’s voice in my head telling me these things are important and of course I must go. So go I did. All the way to New York state and city for a long weekend. The day before leaving I checked the forecast online. I had been told to bring warm clothes. I triple checked on other weather websites before actually believing that it may really be a ridiculously unseasonable 24-29C and sunny. So, everything out of the rucksack and a swift repack after a frantic delve into the depths of my clothes to find summer varieties. I’m so glad I did. The forecast

Upper Deeside Art Society by Moira Mckenzie

HRH The Duchess of Rothesay attended a private preview of the annual art exhibition organised by the Upper Deeside Art Society (UDAS) in Ballater, during August. see pic on back page.... Held in the Victoria Hall, the 19th annual UDAS exhibition featured 299 works, demonstrating the broad array of talent of UDAS members. The Duchess, an Honorary Lifetime Member of the Society, was able to meet the 58 artists whose works were on display and discussed their creative inspiration. The sublime landscapes of the Dee Valley continue to inspire local artists, along with botanical, animal and human subjects. The mediums on display varied from watercolours and oils to delicate sculptures in willow branch, and finely turned bowls in yew and elm wood. UDAS was established in 1992 and now boasts nearly 100 members. It is open to all amateur artists living in the Upper Deeside area and is a living demonstration that art need not be a solitary pastime. Members attend regular workshops, demonstrations of creative techniques and talks by professional artists. In the summer months, UDAS organises painting days at local landmarks, such as Crathes Castle and Finzean House.

tiful flowers and vegetables and the increased number of entries in the children’s section was encouraging for the organisers. Three ladies from the Floral Art Group, Kathleen McCulloch, Jenny Houston and Maria Franklin, were successful in the Victoria Week Scarecrow competition winning a first prize for their entry which they had made, decorated and exhibited in the Station Square Information Centre forecourt. Congratulations to these talented and artistic ladies. BRHS Floral Art Group met on 15 September. Our chair woman, K athleen McCulloch was absent as she and her husband were celebrating their Golden Wedding. We sent them our good wishes and congratulations. In the absence of Kathleen our meeting went ahead with Rena Cross from Aber-

Crannach Coffee Shop & Bakery at Cambus O’May

Open Thursday - Tuesday 11am - 5pm

Floral Art Group by Mildred Coull The Floral Art Group had many successful entries in the BRHS Annual Exhibition which was held in the Victoria Hall on 21 and 22 August and were well represented, particularly in the novice category, with six ladies testing their skills for the first time. It was a most successful show with beau-

Bread Making Courses on Wednesdays

Gift Vouchers Available Tel: 013397 55126 for details

deen kindly stepping into the shoes of Helen Robb from Montrose who had been taken ill. We send her our good wishes and our grateful thanks go to Rena who, apart from producing stunning designs, coped with the unexpected arrival of a bat which swooped and dived over the heads of a bemused audience. I wondered why Kathleen had left me with full instructions for the meeting but had omitted to include bat catching equipment. A brave lady succeeded in catching the bat in the brightly lit hallway after we had extinguished the lights in the room. It was released unharmed. Ivy Duncan’s tea and biscuits were very welcome at the end of such an exciting evening. Our October meeting was our AGM with Sonia Wolfe-Murray demonstrating after the business had been completed. Our fund-raising Christmas Charity

evening on 24 November will be reported in the next Eagle issue when we hope to record an evening of Christmas designs from Gill Garrow and be able to make generous donations to our two charities, The Sandpiper Trust and the Community Bus. Floral Art Meetings will resume in April 2012.

BOVOF by Ron Drever Many will have noticed the new sign at the entrance to Monaltrie Park. This was a project initiated by the Monaltrie Park Users Group (MPUG), a BOVOF Partnership, intended to make the Park entrance more welcoming.

The Lost Watch

Buying and Selling Property Wills and Powers of Attorney Trusts and Executries Notarial Executions Resident Solicitors 24 Bridge Street, Ballater, AB35 5QP Tel No. 013397 55633 Fax No. 013397 55564 ballater@fraser-mulligan.co.uk

My watch is not as old as I, but getting on that way. It doesn’t have a battery, I wind it up each day. The other day, I lost it- it could be anywhere, Lying on the bathroom shelf, or underneath a chair. My mind went back to yesterday, but I could not recall Where was I when I took it off? Maybe in the hall. I searched beside the telephone, then each step of the stair, Up into the bedroom, but I couldn’t find it there. It must be in the kitchen, maybe beside the sink. It wasn’t in the living room. Where else? I couldn’t think. I wondered if I’d scooped it up with yesterday’s P&J., So I emptied out the waste bin - no luck, I have to say. After an hour, or two, or more, my house was looking neat, Perhaps the strap had given way, and I’d lost it in the street. That must be what happened - search ended for today. I might as well give up, and buy another straight away. I’d lost it, yes I’d lost it, it had well and truly gone And then I rolled my sleeves up, and you’ve guessed it! I’d got it on!!

FRASER & MULLIGAN Your local solicitor and estate agent

by Betty Wilson

Glen Lui HOTEL

Ballater Highland Games kindly agreed to fund the manufacture of the sign, while Aberdeenshire Council kindly provided the labour necessary to remove the old sign and erect the new. Our thanks to both – we trust the community enjoys this latest BOVOF/ MPUG project. With regard to the possible new Dental Practice, BOVOF have been pushing NHS Grampian for action, and will continue to do so. In October, we were advised by NHS Grampian that:“We are still in the process of looking at all the options available to us in line with funding allocations and if there is anything to update you with, I will give you a call.” We’ll keep trying!

RESTAURANT & bISTRO BAR

Private Function & Conference Facilities * Licensed for Weddings *

Restaurant open all year round Comfortable and Relaxing with Excellent Food and Wine Family groups and companies welcome Book for our Festive Menu available throughout December Closed December 24, 25 and 26. Lunch daily from 12 to 2 p.m. / Dinner daily from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Invercauld Road, Ballater, Royal Deeside AB35 5PP

Tel.013397 55402

www.glen-lui-hotel.co.uk

Email: infos@glen-lui-hotel.co.uk

proved. The Trustees decided not to install radiators meantime but that they would board up the ventilators in the roof. In November 1924 they asked Mr Walter Simpson to draw up a report on the probable cost of heating the Albert Hall and also one for heating the rest of the Halls separately. No reply had been received by August 1925 but on enquiry it appeared that Mr Simpson had died so the Trustees now had the task of recovering all the plans and papers he had taken away with him. Mr Bennet Mitchell was asked to recommend a heating engineer in Aberdeen but he was unable to do this so an engineering firm in Glasgow was sought. The consultations went on until June 1926 when the contract was finally let to William Walsh of Ballater, his tender being ÂŁ409.16/6(ÂŁ409.83pence). After all this time the Trustees wanted the work completed by the end of September

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1926 but it was well into 1927 before the new system was fully installed and the whole building was then redecorated. In June 1928 the Trustees agreed to have the footpath in front of the Halls tar sprayed by the contractor who was spraying Station Square, so long as it cost about ÂŁ2. In December 1928 a letter was received from the son-in-law of Mr and Mrs Charles Paterson who had left ÂŁ7,500 to Ballater for the provision of cottage homes, asking if the Trustees would accept portraits of Mr and Mrs. Paterson for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;public hallâ&#x20AC;?. The Trustees replied that although the Halls were not strictly public, they would be happy to hang the portraits in the Victoria Halls pending possible removal to the Paterson Cottage Homes once they were built. At the same time the portraits of Mr and Mrs Alexander Gordon would be re-hung in the Victoria Hall. Towards the end of 1929 the minister, Mr Waugh, asked if badminton could be played in the Albert Hall on Thursdays in the winter. Permission was granted on condition that play be confined to young people connected to the Church of Scotland. The Albert Hall was found to be unsuitable for the game so the Victoria Hall was offered on condition that no permanent marks be made on the floor. Later, the club was allowed to mark out the court with Duresco, the work to be done by a skilled tradesman and the lines to be as narrow as possible. This proved unsatisfactory and the club was eventually allowed to use ordinary black paint and black enamel. In Januar y 1930 the small mirror in Room 2, which was often used as a ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cloakroom, was replaced with a larger second hand one. It was also agreed to provide soap and towels for the adjoining lavatory. 4 x 2 yard roller towels and a quantity of Lifebuoy soap were purchased.

Committee Skills Training by Lindsay Lumsden

Sandy Mathers of Aberdeen Council for Voluntary Service delivered an interesting and informative training session on Committee Skills to members of the community in Ballater on 19 September. They looked at the roles of committee members and office bearers, running meetings, minute-taking, and financial and legal responsibilities. The course was organised by a partnership of BOVOF (Ballater One Voice Our

Future), Aberdeenshire Council Community Learning & Development and Aberdeenshire CVS Training Initiative. One participant commented, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Many thanks for a fab. course, I really enjoyed it and got a lot out of itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The mind that is anxious about future events is miserable.â&#x20AC;? Seneca

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CLAN News by Joan Cowie

In March 2008 CLAN Cancer Support launched a campaign to raise funds for a new cancer support centre in Aberdeen. At the end of October this year, we moved into our wonderful new home adjacent to the city’s Westburn Park. Of particular interest to readers in Deeside is our accommodation facility CLAN Haven. Our Haven provides affordable B&B accommodation and so much, more to anyone from outlying areas coming to Aberdeen for treatment or appointments. Family members and close friends are also made very welcome. We have twenty-seven en-suite rooms including two family rooms and two disability adapted rooms. The Haven is renowned for its warm, welcoming atmosphere – many a long chat

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goes on round the kitchen table. Our Haven team offers practical and emotional support as well as providing a continental breakfast. Our guests are also welcome to access any of the services in the centre including a wide range of complementary therapies. To find out more about CLAN Haven, or to make a booking, please call us on: 01224 647000. Of course, when people return home to Deeside they can continue to access support locally. At CLAN in the Community based in Ballater you will find the same warm welcome. There is always time to talk and our kettle is always on. Our complementary therapies can help with relaxation whilst our support group, and walking group provide friendship, peer support and gentle exercise. However we simply could not provide these services without a very special group of people – our volunteers. Volunteers help us in so many ways – providing support in the centre, in the CLAN shop, fundraising and organising events. We’d be delighted to hear from anyone who would be interested in helping us in any way. To find out more please drop into the centre or call us on: 013397 56318. And finally a huge thank you from our bag-packers who were at the Co-op in Aboyne on 8 October. Thanks to your generosity we raised £396 which will directly benefit people in this area. For more information about CLAN locally and in Aberdeen visit our website at www.clanhouse.org

“Never fight an inanimate object.” P. J. O’Rourke

until the next day as the trustees insisted on play continuing until 10pm rather than 9.45pm as Mr Angus wanted. The Trustees decided at this time to allow the playing of Pool (common or snooker) on the billiard tables. On 23 May 1920, even though the day was a Sunday and the Trustees were unhappy about allowing commercial use of the premises on a Sunday, they allowed the Victoria Hall to be used for a luncheon venue for 300 delegates from the National Union of General Workers conference being held in Aberdeen. The delegates were visiting Balmoral Castle and no other building in Ballater was large enough for the purpose. In February 1923 a letter was received from an Edinburgh solicitor’s office informing the Trustees that Miss Scott of Rothesay Place, Edinburgh, who had died in Ballater the previous September, had dictated an informal memorandum two days before her

death leaving the books in her house in Ballater to the library. The residuary legatees had decided to honour the bequest but pointed out that as the house was let, most of the more than 400 books would not be available until October. It was agreed that as the books were of general literature and the works of Scott, Stevenson and Dickens being in the best editions, the Trustees would gratefully accept the bequest. This bequest caused a lot of work for the Trustees as they had to have new bookcases installed which necessitated moving a door in the library, and having a catalogue of the books drawn up and 400 copies printed. In the summer of 1923 the streets were being repaired and several loads of the resulting refuse were obtained to resurface the area in front of the Institute. In February 1924 the Choral Union asked for the Albert Hall heating to be im-

44 V&A Halls Minutes Extracts the Roaring Twenties by Janet Riddler The first task facing the Trustees of the Halls after cessation of hostilities, was settling the account with the Red Cross who had used the Victoria Hall as a hospital during the war. At first they asked for £20.00 for electric light, the replacement of five dozen cups and saucers and one and a half tons of coke, being the estimated amount used by the hospital. After discussion with the Red Cross, the Trustees agreed to waive the electricity charge but insisted on the crockery and coke being replaced and also asked for £4.00 for a new sink and £5.00 for a new wash hand basin. Once all this was agreed, Dr Hendry, the hospital superintendent, presented the Trustees with a clock in appreciation. The War Office sent a letter express-

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ing its “deep appreciation of the Trustees’ kind and patriotic action”. The Trustees next decided to allow the Town Council free use of the Halls for a “Treat for Returning Soldiers” on 2 May, 1919. They also agreed to let the large basement room to The Discharged Soldiers and Sailors Association for two shillings (10 pence) a month payable quarterly. This was on the strict understanding that if the Room was found not to be being used for its purpose of providing a place of meeting which was morally and socially beneficial to young men, its use would be discontinued. No intoxicating liquor could be consumed on the premises and no intoxicated person would be admitted. The members of the Association were to discourage any loitering outside the Room or in the vicinity of the Halls, whether by men or women. A new flagpole, rope and flag were ordered from Messrs Shirras Laing of Aberdeen in time for the Peace Celebrations. In October 1919 some local gentlemen asked to rent the Victoria Hall for a cinematograph entertainment twice a week. It was agreed to offer the Hall for £60 a year to include use of the piano. This was subsequently reduced to once a week for £30 a year. Mr Angus, the Hallkeeper, asked for an assistant but the only applicant, Willie Rattray, was found not to be eligible to leave school until January so it was suggested that because Mr Angus was on duty till 10pm a woman might be engaged to clean the rooms in the morning so that Mr Angus did not need to arrive until 10am. He was also allowed to leave brushing the billiard tables

Community Council

by Graham Adams Co-Op Update Things with the Co-op have moved forward a bit since the last issue of the Eagle. Following our letter to the CEO, and various telephone conversations, we have been informed that; “Ballater Main St. has been reviewed and several sections in-store are currently being increased, which will increase our range. Space in-store is limited but we are committed to continually work with you to improve the ser vice that we offer to the Ballater community. The range changes that the company is going through nationwide at present, is helping to increase range in most stores. This should further help increase the range. A gluten free product range has been put forward to our Space Planning Manager to look at ways to incorporate this range into the store. In regards to the split ranging across the two stores, Michael McCarthy, Area Operations, hopes to discuss this when he meets with you in the near future.” In the meantime, we may request the local managers to ask customers for details of specific items they require in the event that some shelf space can be made free by rationalising stock between the two stores. Please let us know what you think would make the Co-op better - we will try and put your comments to them.

Bridge Street Congestion The communities’ survey that B&CCC conducted last autumn showed a degree of concern about traffic congestion, especially on Bridge Street. We understand that opinions on the significance of this may be di-

vided. However, it seems that a fairly small increase in traffic activity can turn Bridge Street from a picture of calm serenity into a source of considerable frustration. The part between Bridge Square and Victoria Road / Hawthorn Place junction seems to be particularly sensitive. We don’t know if there are any smart measures that can be taken to improve the situation, but we intend to explore possibilities, in consultation with personnel from Aberdeenshire Council.

Youth Activities The communities’ survey also revealed that there is a perceived lack of facilities and activities for Ballater youth (people in the age range 11-18 (approximately). The prob-

C.S.M. Handyman J.Lanigan

All the little jobs you can’t get any1 to do

general maintenance inside and out, gutter cleaning, garden tidying, chimney sweep, etc. Strathgirnoc Farmhouse South Deeside Road Ballater Tel. 013397 56227 Mobile 07506951506 Email: C-S-M_Aerials@hotmail.co.uk

lem is obviously shortage of funds to pay for facilities, whatever form they might take. Early participation in discussions with teenagers would be useful, to get some credible definition of facilities that would be most beneficial to Ballater youth. But hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the catch â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get anything for nothing. Ballater youth would have to pay for it. We are suggesting that a scheme could be devised whereby they get involved in â&#x20AC;&#x153;community servicesâ&#x20AC;? in exchange for cash, sponsorship, or pledges of support. Activities such as washing cars, cleaning, gardening, snow clearance, help with computers and many more could be included. Possibly local trades people could help train those interested to do more complex tasks. The proceeds would be paid into a fund to finance the desired facilities. This can be co-ordinated with opportunities to capture additional fund-

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ing through sources like the Lottery. This would need a lot of organising and effort. More definition of a scheme like this would be needed, and the goal should be challenging but achievable, as the obvious consequences of failure are worth avoiding. However, as well as achieving the intended outcome from a project like this, there could be huge benefits to the community, like improved relations across generations, and making unexpected new friends. If any readers are interested in taking up a challenge like this, please let us know.

SWRI by Aileen Barbour

On 21 September President Anne Richardson welcomed members and visitors to the meeting after the summer break. After business, the President introduced Aileen Asher, Glass Engraving Artist from Tomintoul who gave a talk then demonstrated the art of engraving. Mrs Asher brought a selection of her beautiful work to let us see and this was greatly admired. Members were invited to participate, which some did and were pleased with their efforts. The competition was a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Decoration Candleâ&#x20AC;?: 1) Joan Anderson, 2) Frances Johnstone, 3) Margaret Finnie, 4) Pat Fraser. The meeting on 19 October was entitled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Theatre Experiencesâ&#x20AC;? by Tommy Baxter. It was fascinating to get an insight into the West End theatre world in London and was most enjoyable. The competition this month was â&#x20AC;&#x153;Double Shortbreadâ&#x20AC;?: 1 ) Frances Johnstone, 2) Margaret Cameron, 3) Margaret Finnie, 4) Thelma Cooper. On 16 November, Jenny Houston gave a talk on the â&#x20AC;&#x153;History of Flower Arrangingâ&#x20AC;?. Dates for meetings through until March are contained within the Eagle Diary.

way upstream to spawn, I was surprised to feel several sharp tugs on my chain. Two fishermen, rods in hand, were standing on the riverbank, one of them complaining that his hook was caught in something and that he would have to wade out to retrieve it. Soon the owner of a large pair of feet encased in heavy rubber waders appeared and an astonished red face peered down at me. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Its an auld roosty bikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, he yelled, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d better rug it oot afore it snags somebody elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hookieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and a moment later, using his gaffe, he pulled me to the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edge and after unhooking his fly, threw me casually onto the grassy bank. My wheels were the first to go, some scavenging bairns delighted at the prospect of making themselves a cartie of sorts. My handlebars soon followed to some auld wifie, a knitter, living on her own, who, needing an extra pair of hands when it came to turning skeins of wool into balls, was keen to have them fixed to the back of her kitchen chair. Sadly, the last to go was my fine leather saddle, scuffed and cracked, but still in one piece and serviceable. So there I rested, a skeleton of my former self, rusting quietly in the long grass, my bonnie blue paint almost all gone and no doubt there I would have remained, had not some progressive and energetic new member of the village council decided that there should be a clean up of the river bank opposite the Riverside Garage and some seats installed, for the old folk to while away their pensioner days. Soon the grey ash cart arrived and I was once more on my travels, this time to the Arrigation. The journey was short, and without ceremony I was dumped on this festering pile of rubbish, where I now remain. Next issue: Part Two - In which â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Ozzy finds Salvation after Salvageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;...

Can you help 43 concerning Colville Cottage? Joan from Dunfermline would like to know if anyone has any information about Colville Cottage (41 Victoria Road) in the 1930s? Maybe a photograph of the tenants who resided there at around that time? She would really appreciate any info you can give her. Please talk to Sabine Muir, who has Joanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s details. You can contact Sabine through the library.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is only one way to happiness, and that is to cease worrying things which are beyond the power of our will.â&#x20AC;? Epictetus

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dented and scratched, properly inflated tyres with a modicum of tread and a battery operated headlamp instead of the spluttering feeble carbide one that hung from my front bracket. Above all, I wanted to have my paintwork and chrome looked after and treated with respect. Very rarely in life do oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prayers get answered, but one memorable day, the good fairy of all cycles must have been listening, for at long last a chink in the dark cloud of my despair opened briefly and my wishes came true. My owner was in his usual half comatose state on the way home and barely managing to make progress, we stopped at the brow of the bridge as it crosses the Dee. In the course of the evening he had somehow managed to acquire a half bottle of some spirit and reaching into his grimy coat he pulled it forth and removing the stopper, took a long swig. Burping loudly, he then went to

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replace it, but somehow his fumbling hand missed his pocket and the bottle fell, shattering on the ground. Roaring with frustration, he then climbed back into my saddle and once there his powerful legs forced me to move. Unfortunately, the oaf had given me no alternative but to travel through the sharp glass shards now littering the road. The outcome was inevitable and with heavy sighs both my poor old bald tyres expired - sadly their patched pneumatic lives were finally over. Unable to maintain his balance the man then fell sideways and as he went down with a heavy thump, my badly worn and jagged left hand pedal cut through the cloth of his trouser leg and for good measure, gave him a nasty gash across his shin. Now thoroughly enraged, in pain and with the prospect of a long walk home facing him, he picked me up. Yeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll nae get the better oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; me, ye useless auld piece oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; scrapâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, he roared and with a curse hurled me over the parapet of the bridge and down, down I went, into the swollen waters of a river Dee in full winter spate. Many feet below, with scarcely a splash, the cold waters softly cushioned my fall and gathering all around me, welcomed me to their dark brown depths. The fierce current then tumbled me wheel over wheel for several hundred yards, until finally one of my pedals became wedged between two boulders. I was held fast and there I remained! Hidden below the surface, this watery resting place among the slimy eels, inquisitive trout and migrating salmon could easily have been my last resting place and for several months I enjoyed the peace and quiet, my only worry in this sea of tranquility arising from the corrosive effect the water seemed to be having on my limbs. It came to pass however, that one fine spring day as I was watching the salmon moving past me on their

Ballater (RD) Ltd by Paddy Wright Ballater Caravan Park The major part of the site was bought by Ballater Town Council in 1967. The surpluses which accrued enabled the Town rates to be reduced by a shilling in the pound â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not a bad return for the investment. There were many other benefits to the community in the form of increased trade for shops, restaurants, and the Golf Club. Later, ownership passed to Kincardine and Deeside District Council and eventually to Aberdeenshire Council. A return to community management will complete the loop, bring benefits to the community, and secure the future of the Caravan Park. At the end of 2007, Aberdeenshire Council, in the light of the losses accruing from their 11 Caravan Parks, invited inter-

est from possible partners to become involved in the management. BRD expressed an interest in the Ballater Park and formed a steering group to negotiate. It has been a long hard slog with little progress being made until recently, when the Council resolved to cease operation of all its Caravan Parks by the end of the current season. It resolved to transfer management to suitable community bodies, and only as a last resort would commercial organisations be considered. The recent Community Asset Transfer legislation permits local authorities to transfer assets, including leases, to community bodies at below market value. BRD is now very optimistic that a lease or transfer of ownership of the Park will be agreed with the Council by the end of this

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year. As BRD has charitable status, it cannot trade directly. It is proposed to set up a subsidiary trading company which will be wholly owned by BRD. All surpluses will be applied to the improvement of facilities at the Park and to other community projects. Directors for this new company will be recruited from the community. Over the past 15 years there has been little investment in the Park, other than the provision of services to the static stances. It is hoped that, under community management, the facilities will be greatly enhanced, thus attracting an increase in numbers of visitors. Further information can be found in a leaflet which is available on our website www.royal-deeside.org.uk, or at our office.

erect 3 pedestrian fingerpost directional signs within the village and a granite â&#x20AC;&#x153;Welcomeâ&#x20AC;? sign at the entrance to Ballater on the A93.

The Old School In the summer edition of the Eagle, we reported that BRD and the North East of Scotland Preservation Trust had combined to undertake an Options Appraisal Study on the future of the Old School. The consultants used the community drop-in day in July to get residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; views on various proposals. The consultantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; report is expected to be published at the beginning of November and for more details contact the BRD office.

Glenmuick Church

0RELOH

by Betty Wilson Glenmuick and Glengairn are among the few churches in Scotland that are able to keep their doors open during the summer months. Comments in the visitorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s books show that this facility is much appreciated, and in both churches, the beautiful flower arrangements are often mentioned. This year, a visitor to Glenmuick from Essex picked up a Wordsearch puzzle, produced to raise money for the upgrading of the Ballater Halls. When she sent in her solution, she enclosed an unsolicited donation to the church flower fund. A draw took place to select three winners and her name was the first one out! She was sent a cheque for ÂŁ10 and she wrote back to say that she was going to spend the money on a special flower arrangement for her church. Who would have thought that a Wordsearch puzzle in Ballater would bring about a floral display in an Essex Church?!!

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wine is constant proof that

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Signage Jack Coull reports that progress is being made towards the achievement of our aim to

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see us happy.â&#x20AC;? Benjamin Franklin

open doorway. A sign had then been hung from my front lamp bracket, which in large letters said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;For Sale - Gents Raleigh - ÂŁ12/10sâ&#x20AC;?, but that sign didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stay there long! I waited eagerly to begin the transporting duties for which I had been made, but had to admit taking an immediate dislike to the rough looking man who became my first owner and whose actions soon justified my worst fears. In the months that followed, never a drop of oil did my poor chain and other moving parts receive to ease away the dryness and pain caused by metallic friction. My groans and squeaks were ignored and there was never any attempt to clean away the dirt that soon accumulated on my wheels and body. The chrome on my beautiful shiny handlebars soon started to rust, succumbing to the blood and other liquids oozing from the dozen or so rabbits that usually dangled from their extremities. Occasionally, when threatened with a beating and snarled at long enough, one of his scruffy, nit infested and half starved bairns would find my pump and try their puny best to force some fresh air into my poor worn tyres, but I was offered no other kind of maintenance and starved of any respect. My owner, a poacher, lived up in one of the glens and on most evenings my main task was to convey him to the village, where he would spend several hours at the Invercauld Hotel, in a noisy place to one side, known locally as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Tinkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. When he emerged, most often barely able to stand, the journey home would become a painful experience. Once in the saddle and after several false attempts to remain upright, his tackety booted feet would at last find my pedals and I would be forced to move in whatever his drink-addled brain thought was a straight line. Invariably however, a drunken

mist would overcome his senses and unable to focus, we would follow a meandering course that took us from one kerbside in the road, to the other. Many a time he would end up on top of me in a hedge at the roadside or in some foul ditch, cursing and swearing and of course blaming me for his lack of control. Occasionally he would fall asleep and lie there for several hours before the cold and wet half sobered him up and the journey could continue. I suffered terribly and the daily abuse, kicks and general neglect gradually reduced me to such a shabby state, that if I had been given a head, I would have hung it in shame every time I met another roadster of my ilk How I longed for some relief, to be able to run free on well oiled hubs and bearings, to have well adjusted brakes acting on well polished wheel rims, to have pedals that were not seized up, mudguards that were not

Graham Stuart Plumbing & Heating Engineers

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Ozymandias of the Arrigation by Wee Chis Part One - ‘Ozzy finds Peace after Purgatory’

For three days and nights it hammered non-stop. Steel-like rods of rain drove the grey furry squeakies deep into their holes and silenced the squawking crows and gulls that cowered in the scanty shelter offered by the oak trees that hugged the banks of the nearby Dee. It was a miserable time for the wild life and had it continued much longer, it could have brought some of them close to starvation. But for me - although I did not know it at the time - this tropical style downpour was to be my salvation. The more it lashed the earth, the more it chiselled away the years of dirt and rubbish that had accumulated on my limbs, exposing me once more to a world I had never expected to see again.

Invercauld Lodges Self-Catering Accommodation Prices from: £55/night & £350/week 12a Invercauld Road BALLATER AB35 5RP Tel: 013397 55015

Saturday dawned and with it came the sun. The squeakies, pleased to be free of their enforced confinement, were soon back again, sniffling and snuffling and foraging all around me as usual, one beady eye jealously guarding their spoils, the other forever scanning the skies for their mortal enemies the thieving crows, who, when hungry as now, could easily kill an unwary young rat with their long sharp wicked beaks and they often did. The rats were just as bad however, as birds’ eggs and young chicks were a welcome addition to their diet, as many a sad, ground nesting avian family, often found out. Being inedible of course I was of no value to any of them. I also detested these black scavengers, but for a different reason. With complete lack of respect for my limbs, they would use me as a perch, their sharp talons gripping me hard and scratching off what remained of my poor royal blue skin. Preening, primping and calling to one another in hoarse, croaking tones, they would, worst of all, leave me covered in their foul, white, acidic paint-removing deposits I had long been resigned to my fate, but I still dreamt of that day when I had first arrived in Ballater in the luggage van of a steam train. The journey from Nottingham, the place where I had been born, had been long and tedious and I had been glad, when bandaged like an Egyptian mummy in protective wrapping paper to protect my shiny new skin, I had been carried across the Station Square and delivered to a nearby shop, where the shopkeeper, an old soldier called Jock, welcomed my arrival and soon had me standing proud and polished, close to his

R D & C DMO by John Carnie Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms Destination Management Organisation (DMO) which is based in Ballater is seeking additional directors and a new chairman. For the first time, the DMO will be recruiting directors from the general business community in the area as well as from its own partnership base. The DMO currently has 90 partner businesses and is a company limited by guarantee. It is the official tourism organisation for the Deeside, Donside and the Eastern Cairngorms area and has carried out many tourism projects. Current Chair of the DMO Board, Garry Marsden says, “This is an exciting time for the DMO and its partners. We have several years of hard work under our belt and have delivered successful promotional campaigns but now is the time to bring fresh, enthusiastic talent to the table to help us continue to deliver for our partners. We are in talks with our key partners at Scottish Enterprise, Aberdeenshire Council and VisitScotland about the funding of our new business strategy and three year marketing plan and it’s now time to strengthen our Board to give it a sustainable future.” The organisation is seen as one of Scotland’s most successful tourism bodies. Garry continues, “There are no special skills or experience required to become a Board member. What we need are enthusiastic people who are committed to making Royal Deeside and The Cairngorms a leading tourist destination, who can attend Board meetings and give the benefit of their experience. Obviously, a link to tourism would be preferable, but we are also seeking people from other business sectors to bring fresh thinking to the Board. Our recent partner

survey shows us that there is goodwill towards the work and significant achievements of the DMO and that our partners want the DMO to continue promoting the area and at the same time improving communication with partner businesses and other organisations.” The DMO has delivered many projects since its inception including the introduction of the Venison Festival, and the Dine on Deeside events; production of a food magazine Deelicious; The Tanalonga gastro ramble; the Deeside Music Sessions; attendance at VisitScotland’s Expo and seasonal marketing campaigns. The food and drink projects under the brand of Royal Deeside Larder has been nominated for nine PR and marketing awards in 2011. For more information about the role of the board members and confidential discussion about the position of Chairman, please contact Garry Marsden on 013397 42555. Royal Deeside & the Cairngorms DMO is the official Destination Management Organisation for tourism businesses in the areas of Royal Deeside, Donside and the Eastern Cairngorms. Find out more about the DMO at www.discoverroyaldeeside.com

“Cross country skiing is great if you live in a small country.” Steven Wright

Firewood

Tel: 013397 55997 Mobile: 07821 746756

email: weejim03@live.co.uk web: www.weejim.webs.com

Keys to the Door by John Holley

It has been 2 years since AA Box 472 at Cambus O’ May on the A93 was ‘saved’ by residents of Ballater from further decay and eventual extinction. Its interest to locals and tourists alike has been unbelievable and the number of comments in the visitors’ book by people from around the world clearly proves its importance as a piece of social history. As we attempt to add to the ‘mini’ museum contained within the box, we would like to ask for your help. Many people have, hidden away somewhere in cupboards, drawers and other secret places, old AA-issued box keys. We have secured a few keys from various sources, and these are proudly displayed as part of the ‘mini’ museum within Box 472. If you think you may have an AA key hidden away somewhere, then please can

you search high and low and if successful pass the key to Alistair Cassie at his emporium in Bridge Street, Ballater, and he will ensure that it becomes part of our ‘mini’ museum. Happy searching! Play your part in adding to our Box 472 museum. Thank You.

International Mountain Day Walk by Glyn Jones On Sunday 11 December, the Balmoral Rangers will be celebrating International Mountain Day with a Winter ascent of a local peak. This will be a high winter walk, with the exact route being decided on the morning of the walk, and will mainly depend on the weather conditions. A good level of fitness is required. The meeting point is Spittal of Glen Muick Visitor Centre at 9.30am. Cost is £5 per person, and booking is essential. Contact 013397 55059.

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lies but when the holly’s green.” As holly is evergreen, the person concerned never tells the truth.

Ivy Ivy is associated with the god Bacchus. A cure for drunkeness as well as whooping cough was to drink from a cup of ivy wood. Drinking ivy leaves and berries dissolved in vinegar followed by a drink of water in which ivy leaves had been boiled, protected against the effects of over-indulgence In medieval times an ivy garland hanging on a door, indicated that wine was for sale. Ivy leaves were used in divination. If a leaf put into a bowl of water on Christmas Eve was still fresh on Twelfth Night, New Year prospects were good. It there were black spots, illness would come to a member of the family, the position of the marks on the leaf – top, middle and bottom - corresponding to parts of the body. Spots all over the leaf were a sign of coming death. Ivy is still used medically. A corn cure is to soak ivy leaves in vinegar and styes and sore eyes are bathed in water that ivy leaves have been soaked in. Catarrh was also treated with an inhalation of ivy leaf juice.

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Mistletoe, the Golden Bough of legend, was sacred to both Druids and Norsemen. Known as the plant of peace, it was considered to have magical properties and was dedicated to the goddess of love. Called All-Heal, it was believed to promote fertility. It was used as an antidote to poison but it was also used to cure

snakebite, toothache and general sores. Mistletoe tea was regularly used to control epilepsy. Apart from its medicinal properties, mistletoe protected the house from thunder and lightning. To this day, many churches refuse to bring mistletoe inside because of its Druidical associations. Years ago, English people were inclined to kiss on greeting each other - even strangers newly meeting – but Scots were more reticent! In the 1720s the Kirk forbade kissing on the mouth but hand-shaking was permitted! Customs have changed but a girl today still hopes to be kissed under the mistletoe! Don’t forget to order your tree and the mistletoe and go searching for ivy and holly with berries!

“The superfluous, a very necessary thing.” Voltaire

Wee Jim Landscapes

James Anderson Bridgefoot, Glenmuick, Ballater Aberdeenshire AB35 5SN

Firewood Available Call for details Tel: 013397 55997 Mobile: 07821 746756 Email: weejim03@live.co.uk

Christmas Greenery by Sheila Sedgwick

Christmas will soon be here and most of us will have a Christmas tree – real or artificial. Christmas Tree legends go back to the fourth century but written evidence is only from the seventeenth century. The setting up and decoration of a tree was a German custom, introduced to Britain by Hessian soldiers of George III. There was a children’s party at Windsor in 1821 and again in 1829 with a tree and candles and by 1841 Prince Albert had a tree. Today we regard a tree as essential for Christmas. The hanging of trinkets on the tree dates back to the Romans. Candles have been Christianised and represent Christ as the Light of the World, but in earlier times they were just essential household items.

Three types of greener y are on the Christmas scene – Holly, Ivy and Mistletoe.

Holly Because holly is evergreen and has red berries, it was considered to be the symbol of everlasting life. Prickly holly is lucky for men and the smooth type for women. On Deeside in the past, a sprig was retained after the festivities, said to be a protection against lightning. To burn holly when green was considered to be very unlucky. Nowadays, holly wreaths are placed on family graves at Christmas and hung on front doors. An old Deeside saying was “He never

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Bumper Victoria Week Benefits Ballater Causes by Cat Houston Over £6,000 was distributed among Ballater’s local groups and charities as a result of this year’s very successful Victoria Week. At the group’s AGM in November, over a dozen organisations were given cheques following presentations by committee members on how the week-long event went and what plans are in store for 2012. A slideshow of photos from this year’s Victoria Week was shown during the evening and wine and nibbles served afterwards. The largest beneficiary was the Victoria and Albert Halls, which received £1,500 towards continued improvements in insulation. Glen Muick Church’s steeple restoration project, Ballater School Parent Council and the upcoming Ballater Winter Festival each received £500. BRD got £350 towards a project to improve signage around the village while the esteemed Eagle got £500 added to its coffers to help with production costs. The Ballater Songsters raised £1,000 through their VW event and have asked that the money be split between CLAN and the Forget Me Not charity. A further £150 was raised for CLAN during a raffle at the combined City of Roses Chorus/Quiz night and the committee opted to match that with another £150. Other groups to benefit included the Ballater Pipe Band, Ballater Enhancement Group, YES, the Royal Guard’s chosen charity and the Castleton Dancers, all receiving between £200 and £250. Plans are already being made for next year’s Ballater Victoria Week, which is a little bit special as it’s a jubilee year for the event, which started in 1987. It is hoped that the Scarecrow Competition will attract even more entries, that the weather will be

kind enough to allow a real duck race to take place on the River Dee (!) and perhaps that the number of sporting events may be increased, as VW’s run (4-12 Aug) coincides with the Olympics. Many of the usual favourite events will also take their place in the varied programme, which offers something for all, be they resident or visitor. The band of folk that make the event happen is blooming but more volunteers are always needed. If you would like to get involved or have any fab ideas for an event you would like to put on to make VW 2012 extra special, then get in touch with the committee via email at info@ballatervictoriaweek.co.uk or by phone on 55018 or 55243. You can also see www.ballatervictoriaweek.co.uk or find us on Facebook for information and updates.

The Hair Loft

Ballater Hairstyling

Sarah, Sarah jane, Laura & Sylvia all stylists have had training at vidal sassoon, London and Cheynes of Edinburgh

Open Tues - Sat Please call for an appointment Netherley Place Tel: 013397 56317

Crathie News by Marion MacIntyre

Hogmanay at the Hall

Book Group

Crathie Hall is the place to be when the bells ring in 2012! Celebrations start at 9pm on New Year’s Eve and continue into the early hours of New Year ’s Day. Eddie Esson’s Scottish Dance Band will be there to set your toes tapping. For tickets or more information contact Jean Young 42415 or Bell Macaulay 55745

The group continues to thrive and enjoy a varied selection of books to discuss. During our recent Indian Summer, which lasted for at least 3 days (!), we even managed to have an open air meeting (see photo on back page) when we discussed “Oryx and Crake” by Margaret Atwood. The book provoked mixed reactions but certainly gave us plenty to talk about and was an interesting read if not universally enjoyed! We are currently reading “The Conjurer’s Bird” by Martin Davies for our October meeting and then next on the agenda will be “Penguins Stopped Play” by Harry Thompson

Coffee at the Kirk The ladies who run The Monday Morning cafe in Crathie would like to say a HUGE THANK YOUto all who have so generously supported them over the past seven months. They are all looking forward to seeing you at their Christmas Special on Monday 5 December 2011, weather permitting!

Bowling Club Come along to Crathie New Hall on a Tuesday or Friday evening from 7pm to 9pm if you would like to join with the Crathie Bowlers this winter. Whether you are an experienced bowler or a complete beginner you will be made most welcome!

The I N V E R

H O T E L Crathie, By Ballater Log fires and a warm welcome at The Inver Open to non residents Good food & fine wines Lunches & Dinners Reservations Telephone 013397 42345 Closed 22 December 2011 - 3 January 2012 www.inverhotel.com

Christmas is Coming Patricia Fraser has been busy, with her helpers, organising the Christmas Meal for Crathie Senior Citizens and tries very hard to include all those who are eligible to be invited. If however you live in Crathie, if you are a woman aged 60 years or over, or a man aged 65 years or over, and you think that you might not be on her list, please contact Patricia on telephone number 42327 to be included – she will be pleased to hear from you. “I don’t need you to remind me of my age. I have a bladder to do that for me.” Stephen Fry

and Ballater Songsters, holding elected office in many and of course she has served as an elder of Glenmuick Church. Betty was a founder, along with David and Valerie Kinghorn, of the Friday Fellowship, and eagerly joined the Ecumenical Choir. Our photograph on the back page show her participating in the SWRI float during one Victoria Week as the Lucky Sweep at Mhairi’s Wedding. Many will remember her hilarious responses to the Toast to the Lassies at Burns Nights, with this rather short lady having large, kilted Scotsmen rolling in the aisles, tears of laughter running down their faces. However interesting the Immortal Memor y may have been, it was always Betty ’s responses that remained in my memory! Betty has culinary expertise too, being the first winner of the SWRI’s Mary MacPherson Quaich for her lemon meringue pie (recipe still a secret!). Her puzzles and competitions have raised hundreds of pounds for organisations within the village, including recently, the refurbishment of the Victoria & Albert Halls. Betty has always been a caring person, concerned and willing to help others around her. Stella Potter, who has been involved with the Eagle since its early days, remembers how her elder daughter, before she went to university, “…cleaned for Betty and some other folk. She loved going to Betty’s best, partly as her house was ‘never really dirty’ but mostly she hugely enjoyed the conversation and laughter they shared. Betty showed a real interest in my daughter’s life, contributing to making her the strong young woman she is today. This is one of Betty’s huge strengths: she is genuinely interested in the people she meets. As her personal interests are wide-ranging too it is always good to see her smiling face at a meeting, or in the street. Her presence lightens our lives”. Caring as she does about others, Betty

is always quick to acknowledge the considerable assistance given to her by her immediate neighbours, particularly Paddy and Ivy Duncan. Paddy, Betty says, is very handy for reaching objects on high shelves! The Ballater Eagle has for years been happy to publish articles by Betty, whether extolling the contribution of others to Ballater life, giving reports of SWRI or church activities, or a humorous poem such as the one included in this Eagle. Her talents are numerous and greatly appreciated by all who know her. She has been our very efficient Subscription Secretary since the first Eagle was produced, (Betty, Sheila and Tom are the only remaining Eagle Team members from the very first meeting) and keeps in touch with the ever changing list of subscribers, currently standing at nearly 80. All of this is done without the benefit (or drawbacks) of a computer. She engages with our subscribers too, sending notes in perfect hand writing and, as we saw in our summer 2011 issue, exchanging humorous poetry with some of them. The Eagle is very proud to have such a wonderful lady as an active member of our Team, and trust that she will continue in that role for some years yet. We all hope you had a very Happy Birthday, Betty.

Seasons Greetings from

Cindy Adams PG Dip (Coun)

Person Centred Counsellor 1 Netherley Place Tel: 07969 495399

36 Betty Wilson: Ever young at 90 by Ian Hay Pencil portrait by Eilidh Gow (see also Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s letter) When I heard on the Ballater Bush Telegraph that our subscription secretary was to celebrate a birthday milestone in late November, I felt that some recognition of her considerable contribution to Ballater community life was called for. I approached various people who have enjoyed Bettyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s company during meetings of the numerous clubs and organisations in the village of which she is such an enthusiastic member, and all expressed their admiration for the energy, commitment, friendliness and particularly the humour of a very popular lady. Although she is not a Ballater quine, Bettyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family has had links with the village for over 100 years, her grandfather having been a custodian at the Barracks in Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road during the 19th century. The daughter of a pharmacist, Betty was brought up as a Scot in exile. The tale of her time in the ATS towards the end of World War II was contained within Eagle 38, and her vivid description of dancing with Lord Louis Mountbatten at a soiree in India gives a clear indication of her humour. (Her nose, she recalls, was pressed against his middle waistcoat button!) Betty may be small of stature but she is large in personality, and with her ready smile and twinkling eyes is a wonderful friend to many. After WW2, Betty became a teacher of

history, and ended up as deputy Head of a school in Wokingham. Many of us who have listened to her give talks on a variety of subjects over the years, can only wish that our own teachers could have been half so much fun to listen to as Betty is. I am sure that there are many former pupils who have very fond memories of their caring, approachable teacher who had a sense of humour. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure that she had no difficulty keeping the attention of her young charges. As Sabine Muir, the first editor of the Eagle recalls: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Betty and I used to go to a German Class years ago, run by Willma Sim. We had a great time. Betty was always entertaining us with funny tales of her time as a teacher. One was of a child writing a report after a cooking class and how they had to tidy up afterwards. She wrote something like: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We washed up everything and then turned our bowels upside down on the table and put a tea towel on top.â&#x20AC;? Betty told this story in such an engaging manner that we were all in hoots of laughter. Betty also came to the Writers group at the libraryâ&#x20AC;?. Betty has been, and indeed still is, a very active and enthusiastic member of numerous organisations in Ballater, including SWRI, Ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Probus, Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guild,

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22 New South Wales Study Exchange by David Allan Rotary is perhaps best known for raising thousands of pounds for good causes and helping local organisations with their own projects. But there is another side to Rotary – it also provides opportunities for business and professional people who are not Rotarians to experience another culture and learn about the work of their counterparts abroad. For three days at the beginning of September, a team of four such young people from New South Wales, led by an Australian Rotarian, were hosted by the Rotary Club of Aboyne and Upper Deeside. The team, comprising a journalist, educational designer, construction supervisor and communications officer, spent some of their time enjoying the wonderful Deeside scenery but a day was set aside for each of them to meet representatives

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from local businesses and organisations.

The journalist, Stacey Miller, met up with the Eagle Editor in Ballater to find out how this popular community magazine is compiled and published, and about its role in helping to keep the community informed on local affairs. Stacey currently works as a community journalist for the Forbes Advocate newspaper in her home town of Forbes, New South Wales and she found many similarities between the Eagle and her own publication. She was particularly interested in how the Eagle is funded and offered suggestions as to how revenue might be increased. Stacey was surprised to learn of the existence near Ballater of the Forbes family seat, and hoped to visit Donside during her time here.

ROY MITCHELL JOINER 76 Golf Road Ballater TELEPHONE:(013397) 55378 MOBILE: 07792 117963

we are, what we do, and how we do it. Hopefully we can also then meet those of you who may be interested in finding out a bit more and, who knows, see Rotary as something you too could be a big part of, and by means of which you could serve our community. Have a look at us on www.rotary-ribi.org, where you simply type in “Aboyne” and press “GO”. The Club would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have supported us throughout the year in many different ways. Without your generosity when we are fundraising, we would not be able to support so many local good causes, or help people in other countries. If you would like to find out more about Rotary, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact Ron Drever at High Trees, Morven Way, or telephone 013397 56224. We meet on the first and third Mon-

days (and usually any fifth Monday) of each month at the Boat Inn, Aboyne, 6 for 6.30pm, and on the second and fourth Mondays at the Glen Lui Hotel, Ballater, 6.30 for 7pm.

“A government that robs Peter to pay Paul can always depend on the support of Paul.” George Bernard Shaw

&DUQHOLDQ “Feel Good Factor”

/\QQ 3DUN Massage Therapist Swedish Remedial Massage Thermo Auricular Therapy Stand & Tan 1 Netherley Place, Ballater. Tel: 013397 56215 Mobile 07793354249

Brian Smith Funeral Services Ltd The only family run and owned funeral director in Aboyne, Banchory and Peterculter

Pre-Paid Funeral Plans Available 317 North Deeside Road, Peterculter Tel: 01224 732530 Huntly Road, Aboyne Tel: 013398 86625 85A High Street, Banchory Tel: 01330 825400

Contact Brian or Angela Smith (24hrs)

we shall also be assisting CLAN and other charities by selling raffle tickets for a Car in the Bon Accord Centre in Aberdeen in December. See you there? Our Aboyne area contingent will again be bag packing at Aboyne Coop, on Fridays 23 and 30 December, while, probably on Saturday 17 December, weather permitting, our Ballater worthies will be braving the elements to let you add to our Line of Silver in front of the Ballater War Memorial. Please come and have a chat!!

Community Service The Club has agreed to purchase a mobile wheelchair power unit which will be available locally to help wheelchair users.

Vocational The Aboyne Academy pupils sponsored to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) summer event will be at-

Davidsons Chemists Retail Pharmacy and Veterinary Chemist Group Delivering Quality Healthcare since 1897

PRESCRIPTIONS COSMETICS PHOTOGRAPHIC Over-the-Counter MEDICINES & ADVICE Mon - Fri 9am - 5.30pm Sat 9am - 5pm

10 Bridge Street, Ballater Tel: 013397 55409

tending a Club Meeting in November to tell us how they enjoyed the experience and meeting all the challenges of leadership training. The Club hope to be organising another fundraising Film Night at the Aboyne Theatre in the near future, with at least some of the proceeds helping to sponsor pupils for RYLA next year. Depending on the success of the evening, we may be able to sponsor even more pupils than before! Look out for details and the ticket sales! Following a very productive meeting at Aboyne Academy to review present projects and consider new ones, we are looking at a closer contact with the Academy involving photography and music. Hopefully we’ll be able to report progress in the next Eagle. We also had a very productive and enjoyable meeting with the Head Teachers of most of the Primary Schools in our area, when we again reviewed the present and considered the future, discussing closer contacts and new projects. We look forward once again to being involved with the running of the successful Primary Schools Quiz early next year.

International Service As ever, we continue to support Project Mala, which is concerned with the education of children in one of the poorest parts of India. We are very pleased to be able meantime to sponsor three children in primary school and one now in the middle school.

Engaging our Community As previously reported, we are keen this year to engage with you to provide more information about Rotary in general, and ourselves in particular, showing how we are all about fun, fellowship, fundraising, and community service. We are presently organising informal social gatherings locally for small groups to spread the message a little better about who

V&A Halls by Bell Macaulay The Victoria and Albert Memorial Halls continue to provide a base for community activities, with many groups meeting again after the summer break. The Halls Trustees and Development Association are working together to keep the buildings in a good state of repair in the short term, whilst commencing a staged programme of renovation. An asbestos survey has been completed, and some small amounts of the substance are to be removed from the basement area. This will allow us to obtain the relevant safety documents which are necessary for further work on the building. We have applied for funding to cover the cost of professional assistance to manage the first stage of the refurbishment which will tackle insulation of the entire building. To that end, the Cairngorms National Park Authority has come up trumps once again, pledging an award of up to £4,000 providing we can cover the rest of the cost from other sources. As reported previously, we are working on the formation of a new management body which can apply for funding to organisations such as The Big Lottery Fund, as our existing arrangements do not meet their criteria, and we have signed up to the Keystone Awards Scheme which will validate our management practices – all of these things take time when we want to get on with things! We have done our best to ensure that Halls users are warm and comfortable throughout the cold weather. Trace heating has been installed to minimise the risks of frozen pipes, broken heating elements have been replaced in the two large halls, and some work is to be carried out on the roofs and flashings to prevent further leaks.

We are ver y grateful to Ballater Library for taking halls bookings for three weeks over recent holiday times. Over the next few weeks, a small team will be discussing how best to manage bookings in the future, as well as preparing for the appointment of new hall-keepers when Billy and Annetta retire at the end of February. Looking to the future, we are exploring the possibility of setting up a cinema club, perhaps in partnership. If anyone is interested in helping us with this, we would be delighted to hear from them. We are fortunate that Cat Houston has volunteered to do some groundwork towards the provision of a Learning Centre for Upper Deeside, located in the Beaton Craigie Room and she will be collating information already available, and contacting groups to update information over the coming months. In the meantime, we are continuing with

EDWARD J. EMSLIE House Furnishers & Floor Covering Specialists Serving Deeside & Donside

Carpets * Tiles * Blinds Thousands of samples to choose from!! * Hand Made Soft Furnishings * Thank you for choosing Emslie’s We wish you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year.

Station Square Ballater AB35 5DX 013397 55005

our fund-raising -300+ Club – October draw – winners £75 No.12 Brenda Searle, £50 No.251 Mr & Mrs Will, £40 No.278 Mrs Moira Wight, £30 No.199 Mrs Margaret Crawford. We will be renewing the tickets for next year’s lottery over the coming weeks, and will be offering the same numbers to all those who very kindly supported us this year. Do you have any ideas for fundraisers? We would love to hear from you. Why not come along to one of our monthly Halls meetings where you would be made most welcome! Please contact me by telephone on 013397 55745, or email marybellmacaulay@btinternet.com

Christmas Fair! Please also contact Bell for tables at the Halls Christmas Fair on Saturday 10 December, in aid of Halls heating and refurbishment...

Upper Deeside Music by Jane Angus

After a very happy meeting in Victoria Week at St. Kentigern’s Church, with Grant Golding playing three instruments and Matt Edwards the organist at the Paisley Coats Memorial Church, the society met in the Darroch Learg for a charming evening with the Trio Ecossaise. The members of this clarinet, cello and piano trio having come as individuals and duos before, were willing also to take workshops for all the children in the schools on Upper Deeside. There was also a further cello ensemble with those from Tarland and Aboyne. This built on the previous years’ activity for the young people studying with Jamie Barclay. The meeting on 4 December will be a violin/viola - piano duo, Michael Beeston and Andrew Johnston.

by Ron Drever

year. We look forward to seeing many of you during our travels.

We are very pleased to welcome a new member to the Club, Dr. Ian Ritchie having joined us in October. Ian is an Aberdeenshire lad whose career in medicine has varied from healthcare work in Canada, consultancy in England, forensic medicine, and General Practice, before retiring to Ballogie. Also at the time of writing, Ballater’s Optician, John Dean-Perrin, has applied to rejoin the Club. Previously, business commitments and timetables meant that John had to give up membership, but we are delighted that business changes now enable John to rejoin us. The Club is now gearing up for Christmas and the various activities and fundraising we are always involved with at that time of

The Club attended all the local Highland Games as usual with our “Roll the Dice for Whisky” Stall, including our famous bells and horns! At Aboyne we again helped with the car parking, and raised around £2300 gross on the day. We also raised gross just under £800 at Ballater, around £800 at Braemar, £400 at the Tarland Show, and around £1600 at the Lonach Games. We had great fun and our thanks go to everyone who supported us. We also enjoyed running the Barbeque at the Ballater School Race Day, raising some £100 for our Charity Fund. At the time of writing this, the Club is getting ready to again provide and man the Barbeque at the Aboyne Bonfire Night, and

Rotary Update

Fundraising

the

ALEXANDRA HOTEL Lunch served 12 noon - 2pm

STATION Popular Informal Restaurant in the Old Royal Station

Open daily from 10am Station Square, Ballater AB35 5PB Telephone 013397 55050

and

Supper / Dinner served 5.30pm - 8.30pm ŶƐƵŝƚĞ ĂĐĐŽŵŵŽĚĂƟŽŶ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ

Everybody Welcome! 12 Bridge Square, Ballater. Tel: 013397 55376 www.alexandrahotelballater.com

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Joseph Farquharson The Joyless Winter Day

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Ballater (off A939) AB35 5UB Tel: 013397 55429 E:dot@mcewangallery.com

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Please telephone to ensure we are open during winter months.

Original Oil Paintings

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Balmoral Gift Shop Christmas Sale

Janice McIlwain (Rattray)

Bill Yule PGA Golf Professional

Tuition available ÂŁ20 per 1/2 hour - 5 Lessons for ÂŁ80 Non Members Welcome! *Gift Vouchers Available*

Stockist of:

To view paintings please call Janice, 013397 55546 or email janicerattray@yahoo.co.uk Commissions welcome for every occasion. Paintings can be purchased at: The Silver Thistle and Braemar Gallery

www.janicemcilwain.com

By Rae Stanford

Ping / Titliest / Nike / Glenmuir / Srixon

Saturday 10th December 10am until 4pm

Ballater Golf Club

20% off most lines 013397 42534

Ballater Golf Shop

Victoria Road, Ballater AB35 5QX

Tel. 013397 55658 Email: shnyule@aol.com

www.balmoralcastle.com

* Cutting * Colouring * Perming * Concessions * Bridal/Special Occasions * Gift Vouchers available

07824 338 767 Aboyne - Ballater - Crathie - Braemar

Are You ready for winter?

by PC Steve Lafferty Luke Strachan is a London based artist and illustrator who grew up in Tornuaran, a rustic croft in Crathie, where his family still live today. Luke spent a year living and working with Tibetan refugee communities in India before university. He later pursued this interest by undertaking an apprenticeship in Tibetan Buddhist art for his anthropological fieldwork. After graduating from the University of St Andrews with a Master of Arts degree in Social Anthropology and English, Luke spent the next six months teaching Art and English to high school students on Wotje, a remote coral atoll in the Republic of the Marshall Islands. Luke’s fine art has frequently focused on his rural roots and draws inspiration from landscape and wildlife, as well as the myths and folklore of Britain. His paintings, whilst traditional in scope, often have dreamlike undercurrents and have been displayed in the McEwan Gallery as well as online at www.artgallery.co.uk Now living in London, Luke’s art remains focused on urban wildlife, viewing the city as a natural environment teeming with life. Inspired by the apiaries of his highland home and the threat to bees across the world, Luke is now making plans for his first solo

exhibition entitled “Honey”, which explores the secret lives of bees. His passion for graphic art, illustration and fantasy has led to his cartoons being published in The Eagle, Sidewalk, EastBound and most recently Gosh Monsters Book for children. In addition to this Luke has worked as an illustrative cartographer, creating hand drawn maps of London as well as providing bespoke illustrations for various literary works. In his spare time Luke is working to complete his first graphic novel, The Orcologist, which follows the exploits of a schizophrenic anthropologist whose study of Orc-ish culture reveals the hidden monsters in each of us. Though Luke is now living in London he is always interested in taking on commissions. To see samples of his work and make contact with him please visit his website www.lukestrachan.co.uk

Grampian Police and other agencies across the Grampian area have been ‘gearing up for winter’ and urging residents to make sure they are prepared too. Despite the late summer that was enjoyed by all, emergency services and local authorities are keen to encourage everyone to prepare for winter, which can arrive in our area much earlier than other parts of Scotland and with little notice. The last two years have seen particularly harsh winter weather with heavy snow and very low temperatures. A multi-agency response team, involving Police, Fire and Rescue, NHS and the Local Authority amongst others, prepares for and supports the response in an emergency. All these organisations have worked together to develop guidance for people to use when preparing for the winter. The guidance includes important steps everyone should take to keep themselves safe and focuses on Your Home, Your Travel and Your Community. Your Home covers a range of issues like making sure that medicine cabinets are stocked, pipes are protected from freezing temperatures, stocking up fuel supplies, clearing paths around your home and making sure someone knows where you are and how to contact you. Your Travel, which is of particular interest to local Police Officers, encourages people to plan ahead, checking the forecast and making sure that transport services are running to their normal schedules, changing driving styles to suit the conditions and making sure you can keep warm and comfortable if your journey is delayed. Make sure your vehicle is prepared for the winter weather and ensure all windows are fully cleared of snow and frost prior to starting

your journey (however short). Please obey ‘road closed’ signs and if your journey is not vital, STAY AT HOME... Your Community urges people to think about their neighbours in poor weather, particularly the elderly or those with mobility issues. Can transport be shared with others and can the community work together to clear paths and drives? Regularly check on neighbours to ensure all is well. Further advice can be found on the Grampian Police and Local Authority websites. As always, if you require further advice, wish to report a crime or discuss any other issue with us, call in at the Police office or call Grampian Police on 0845 600 5 700.

Morven Veterinary Practice Opening Hours: Monday 2pm - 6pm Tuesday 10am - 2pm Wednesday 10am - 5pm Thursday Closed Friday 2pm - 5pm

Tel. 013397 - 55134 24 Golf Rd Ballater Aberdeenshire AB35 5RS

Late News: The Schools fabulous 2012 calendar, designed by the pupils, ia now available st Â£5.50. Call Jo Croll on 55540. Also see Jo for your 2012 200Club tickets.

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