Ballater and Crathie Eagle, Winter 2015, Issue 80 by Faye Swan

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THE

eagle

Ballater & Crathie Community Magazine no. 80 winter 2015

my true love sent to me

staff a-waiting

ducks a-shooting

plates fund-raising

beets a-growing

ghouls a-watching

children playing

pipers piping

bikes etaping

bears a-guising

riders bridging

...and a sunny spire on the green!

toots a-skiing

3 Inside Your Winter Eagle:

Thanks to Cat H, Amy Muir, Etape Royale, Ollie Ross, Buttony Bears and Vittoria Hancock for their contibutions to our festive cover photo feature. Can you spot which event each photo represents? You will ﬁnd some clues in these pages but there’s plenty more to warm your winter hearth so, ﬁll your cup, feet up, and tuck in...

4-5

Local Groups

Carved Nativity

Ballater & Crathie CC: 16

Buttony Bear

Ballater Films: 27

Spirit of Service

Ballater (RD) Ltd: 9

Crathie School

Ballater RHS: 10

Ballater School

Charitable Chiels: 38

National Park

AWalk in the Park

Mill of Cosh

TV Review: Scandal

Pottering About

V&A Memories P1

Water Everywhere

Stage Coach

Keeping Council

Catwoman Freefalls

Diary

Brook Taverner Tailoring, ground floor

Fashion Outerwear Lingerie Gifts Homewares Accessories www.mcewensofperth.co.uk

McEwens, Station Square, Ballater AB35 5QB

Churches News: 13 Crathie Opp Hols: 26 Library News: 15 Marie Curie Fundraising: 40 Rotary: 19 SWI: 8 Upper Deeside Music: 25 V&A Halls Trust: 46 Victoria Week: 12 50+ Walking Group: 18

Handy to have

Advertisers’ Index: 62

Advertising

Thank You

Full page: £100; Half page: £50; Quarter page: £25; Eighth page: £12

Our grateful thanks for generous donations from Mrs. J. Richard & Alex and Anne Grant.

Discounts on 4 issue series copy can be changed each issue contact Karen Garioch at karen.garioch@btinternet.com or Tel 42344

Donations are gratefully received, and acknowledged. You can also put money into our tins in the Library or Yules Newsagents.

Sun 6 Mon 7 Wed 9 Sat 12

The Eagle Diary

...so you know What’s Going On December

Ballater Boules Challenge – Monaltrie Park 10.15 for 10.30am. BRHS Open Night - Quiz, Wine and Mince Pies. MS Room, 7.30pm SWI Christmas Afternooon Tea – Deeside Inn, 3pm. Natural Christmas Decorations! Join the Balmoral rangers to make Christmas decorations from natural materials, Spittal of Glen Muick Visitor centre. 10:00am-midday. Free, booking essential: 013397 55059 Sun 13 Advent at the Albert, Songsters & Afternoon Tea, 3pm for 3.30pm, £8 Fri 18 / Sat 19 Braemar Panto, Jack and the Beanstalk in Braemar, 2.30pm & 7.30pm Tickets available from Davidsons the Chemist Sat 19 Charitable Chiels Christmas Funcy Dress Disco, Glenaden Hotel 9pm Donations at the door, prizes for best dressed Female, Male & Group Sun 20 St Kentigern’s Christingle Service 9.30am Sun 20 St Nathalan’s – Ballater Churches Together Service of Nine Lessons & Carols, 4pm Tues 22 Ballater School term ends Thu 24 Christmas Eve Mass at St Nathalan’s Roman Catholic Church, 7.30pm Thu 24 Reindeer and Father Christmas on Church Green 11am Thu 24 St Kentigern’s 11.30pm, Midnight Communion Fri 25 St Kentigern’s 10am, Christmas Communion Sat 26 Braemar Panto, Jack and the Beanstalk in Braemar, 2.30pm & 7.30pm Tickets available from Davidson’s the Chemist Sun 27 Ballater Boules Challenge – The Golden Boules Trophy – Monaltrie Park 10.15am for 10.30am Sun 27 St Kentigern’s 9.30am, Communion and Carols

Fri 1 Sat 2 Wed 6 Sun 10 Thu 14 Wed 20 Mon 18 to Sat 23 Sun 24

January

Survivors’ Ceilidh, Victoria Hall, 7.30pm Ballater Boules Challenge, The New Year Quaich – Monaltrie Park 10.15 Ballater School term begins Ballater Boules Challenge – Monaltrie Park 10.15 for 10.30am. BVW 2016 Brainstorm, venue tbc, 2pm and 7.30pm SWI – Talk by Kate McKenzie Wilson from County Cartridge Crafts – Mike Sheridan Room 7.30pm The Pantomime “Sinbad” - Dinnet Village Hall 7.30pm (matinee Sat 23). Tickets from Riverside Cottage, Loch Kinord Hotel, Maggie’s Café, online Ballater Boules Challenge – Monaltrie Park 10.15 for 10.30am.

Are Your Dates Here?

For inclusion in this FREE section of the Eagle, please contact Faye Swan on 013397 55345 or info@swandesign.uk.com

Mon 1 Sun 7 Wed 17 Sun 21

Sun 6 Mon 7 Wed 16

February

BRHS: Talk by Professor Gordon Walkden, Landscaping Do’s and Don’ts – Mike Sheridan Room, 7.30pm Ballater Boules Challenge – Monaltrie Park 10.15 for 10.30am SWI – Jill Cooper, Beauty Therapist – Mike Sheridan Room 7.30pm Ballater Boules Challenge – Monaltrie Park 10.15 for 10.30am

March

Ballater Boules Challenge – Monaltrie Park 10.15 for 10.30am. BRHS: Talk by Jim Henderson, Sowing Seeds in the Greenhouse – Mike Sheridan Room 7.30pm SWI – Open Evening – Talk by Ian Finnie on Hearing Dogs – Mike Sheridan Room 7.30pm.

Ballater Surgery Festive Opening Hours

Thursday 24th December 8am – 6pm Friday 25th December CLOSED Monday 28th December 8am – 6pm Thursday 31st December 8am – 6pm Friday 1st January CLOSED Monday 4th January 8am – 6pm WHEN SURGERY CLOSED IN CASES OF EMERGENCY Tel: 111

Ballater Library Opening Hours

Sun, Mon & Wed: Closed

Tuesday: 10am-1pm, 6.30-8pm

Thursday: 2-4pm, 6.30-8pm

Friday: 2-5pm

Saturday: 10am-12noon

Contact the Eagle

Hand in to the Library  Post to Ballater Eagle, c/o Ballater Library, Ballater, AB35 5QB

 email to: ballater.eagle@btopenworld.com

Contributions of any kind (ideally in Word format) always welcome.

Keep in Touch with an Eagle Subscription A subscription can be a very welcome gift to farflung friends and relatives. Simply provide the name and address to whom issues should be sent, with a cheque or postal order for ‘Ballater Eagle’ for the relevant amount and drop off your request to Ballater Library. Avril, our Subscriptions secretary, will do the rest. Easy! For the rates below, four issues will be posted. UK: £12.00 EU: £16.00 Overseas: £20.00

Contact Your Representatives

SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT

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

 0791 955 7152 (mobile)

WESTMINSTER Stuart Donaldson MP  01330 828171 email: stuart.donaldson.mp@parliament.uk ABERDEENSHIRE COUNCIL Peter Argyle:  013398 82973 email: cllr.p.argyle@aberdeenshire.gov.uk Geva Blackett:  013397 41541 email: cllr.g.blackett@aberdeenshire.gov.uk Katrina Farquhar:  07876 475403 email: cllr.k.farquhar@aberdeenshire.gov.uk

CAIRNGORMS NATIONAL PARK Katrina Farquhar  07876 475403 email: katrina.farquhar@cnpaboard.co.uk Gordon Riddler  077116093513 email: gordon.riddler@cnpaboard.co.uk

Eagle Who’s Who & Where

Editor: Ian Hay  55941 Treasurer: Elaine Adams  56149 Subscriptions Secretary: Avril Fyfe  56162 Advertising Manager: Karen Garioch 42344 Distribution: Andy and Julie Bloor Diary Secretary: Faye Swan  55345 Design: Cat Houston, Kirsten Knight, Stella Potter, Ollie Ross 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 on 55628.

Letter from the Editor

Well, we may have had an indifferent summer, but autumn was glorious. The clear blue skies of September and October almost made up for the lack of sunshine in the months normally associated with warmth. The trees too have been glorious with the larches and birches in particular glowing brilliantly against the blue skies. It is one of the joys of living in Scotland that we can never be sure what the weather gods will present to us. Meanwhile, all the normal village winter activities are fully under way particularly in the Victoria & Albert Halls. Where would our village be without access to such an asset? In many ways, our community must be grateful to various benefactors from earlier years for their foresight and generosity in the provision of facilities which are so useful to us today. Having said that, local charitable organisations such as the Charitable Chiels are currently providing facilities in the form of a refurbished bothy in Glen Gelder which will hopefully be appreciated by future generations, and the trustees of the Victoria Halls have been working hard to improve conditions in the Halls for future generations. Perhaps the efforts of groups of community-minded people rather than the generosity of rich individuals is how improved community assets will be achieved from now on. The nativity figures which were carved in the village during the autumn, to the considerable interest of locals and visitors, will by now be gracing the Green in the centre of the village, and forming a focal point for the Christmas festivities. Hopefully, these wonderful examples of craftsmanship will be available for the enjoyment of future generations for many years – once again brought about by the efforts of a group of people with interest in their community at heart. We must be grateful to them all for what they have achieved. On behalf of the entire Eagle Team, I wish every reader an enjoyable Festive Season and a Happy New Year.

Ian Hay

Local Group News

A round-up of news from our local groups

Twist. Along with the mocktails we had a selection of lovely things to eat. Margaret thanked Liz and all members who had contributed to a most enjoyable evening.

ROY MITCHELL

TELEPHONE:

07792 117963

by David Horne

by Aileen Barbour

JOINER

ballater.eagle@btopenworld.com

Ballater (RD) Ltd

Ballater SWI

On the 16th September Vice President Thelma Cooper welcomed members to our meeting after the summer Break. Thelma introduced our guest, Pip Will of Larks Gallery, Ballater, who gave us a demonstration on how to make glass beads. Pip brought along some examples of her work and the detail on some of the beads was really beautiful. It looked very easy to do and Pip invited us to have a go. Some of the members did and that is when you discover it is not so easy but their efforts were very good. Tea was served and Pip was asked to judge our competition, “Favourite Hat”: 1) Mary Munro, 2) Aileen Barbour, 3) Sheena Fraser, 4) Ivy Duncan. For our October meeting, President Margaret Finnie welcomed members, new members and visitors to our Taste & Try Fun Night with Cocktails. After business was concluded, Margaret welcomed Liz Yarnell who was invited to judge our competition “2 Decorated Cupcakes”: 1) Diane Wright, 2) Sheena Fraser, 3) Margaret Finnie, 4) Jan Williams. Sheena Fraser and Diane Wright had made a selection of non-alcoholic mocktails which were sampled by us and everyone had their own favourite with names like Champagne Sparkle, Kiwi & Ginger Mocktail, Bloody Mary Mocktail, Cranberry Cutie and Tornado

Got something to say about your group – get in touch

For Quality Ladies’ and Men’s Clothing, Accessories and Shoes Fine Gifts 13 Bridge Street, Ballater, AB35 5QP 013397 53810 www.AthollCountrywear.co.uk

The BRD AGM took place on the 19th November. Those attending were encouraged to give their views on the direction that they would like BRD to take in the future. Light refreshments were available at the end of the meeting, allowing further discussion among those present. The brochure for next year’s walking festival – 21st to 27th May 2016 – is almost complete and should be at the printers shortly. We would be delighted to have new (and younger) people helping or even leading walks next year. If you think you can help in this capacity, please speak to John Burrows. BRD has been acting as facilitator for the Carved Nativity Project, which has been masterminded by John Taylor. Many of you will have seen the figures being carved in the grounds of St.Kentigern’s Church. The carving of these figures attracted a lot of interest within the village, both from locals and visitors. The figures will be displayed on the grass outside Glenmuick Church, during the Christmas period, and will be illuminated. It is hoped that they will be on display each Christmas in future years. I hope as many of you as possible will come to view them. Consideration is being given to incorporating a Heritage Centre within the rebuild of the Station building following the fire. Jack Coull is acting as our lead on this matter. *********************************

Golf Club Dividend Ballater Golf Club held a fundraising tournament on 4th October and have funds available to be distributed to local groups and charities. If your group would like to be considered please supply brief details in writing to Colin Smith, Managing Secretary, Ballater Golf Club, Victoria Road, Ballater, AB35 5QX or by email to sec@ballatergolfclub.co.uk

Bill Yule PGA Golf Professional Tuition available £20 per 1/2 hour - 5 Lessons for £80 Non Members Welcome! *Gift Vouchers Available*

Stockist of:

Ping / Titliest / Nike / Glenmuir / Srixon

Ballater Golf Shop

*Open 7 Days a Week* Ballater Golf Club

Victoria Road, Ballater AB35 5QX Tel. 013397 55658 Email: shnyule@aol.com

Winners: Balmoral Estate

Winner: Elise Percival

Domestic & Commercial Crown Thinning & Reduction Dismantling & Felling Hedge Pruning & Maintenance Dangerous Tree Control Stump Grinding & Removal

Professional Tree Surgeon N.P.T.C. Qualified

Fully Insured Free Estimates call: 013398 80823 e: deesidetreecare@gmx.co.uk

Firewood for sale

m: 07786 756078 w: www.deesidetreecare.co.uk

BRHS

by Elizabeth Wilson

After the late “summery spell”, the leaves are now a colourful mix of russet, orange and gold, falling and blowing everywhere. There have even been a few frosty mornings: joy to have had an extra hour to lie in when the clocks went back even though the daylight fading heralds the arrival of winter! It seems like another world since our 139th Exhibition and Flower Show in August. Inclement weather, no summer to speak of, and wind and rain prior to, and on the Saturday of the Show, had a significant detrimental effect on potential Horticultural entries, resulting in a much reduced show of exhibits. However there was a marked increase in the number of pot plants and vegetable entries, with Balmoral Estate successfully entering for the first time in many years, along with some new entrants, who too did well in the prize stakes. The Children’s Challenge for ages up to 16 attracted a widespread range of entries; miniature gardens, models of animals from fruit and vegetables and collages of favourite birds or animals being the most popular. Elise Percival from Kintore swept the board with her eyecatching exhibits in both the Children’s Challenge and the Adult Floral Art section. The first prize in our raffle, a Prince of Wales Check Hamper, kindly donated by HRH Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay, was won by local resident Hilary Mutch. Thanks to all who helped with the show. We were again grateful to members of the Royal Guard for their assistance in the setting up and dismantling of the exhibit stands. Major Alastair Colville of the Royal Guard and his wife, Marina, presented the prizes. Do have a look at our website http:// ballaterroyalhorticulturalsociety.weebly.com/ for photos and an account of the show. The website also provides extensive information about the Society, the programme of speakers and events past and present.

There was an excellent turnout for our AGM on Monday 2nd November. The Office Bearers remain unchanged, viz., President – Alex Copland, Chairman – Jim Clark, Vice Chairman – Michael Rattray, Secretary – Elizabeth Wilson, Committee Members – Morag Hood, Julie Jarvis, Malcolm Jarvis, Jane Oliver and Helene Thom. We welcome Neil Allan, who has taken over from John Burrows as Treasurer, and Anne Richardson and William Moir to the Committee. The AGM was followed by a captivating illustrated presentation by Arthur Gill on Aberdeen’s much-loved Duthie Park. The park has undergone extensive restoration and the works have restored many of the original Victorian design features in accordance with the original 1883 plans as well as taking a more communitycentred approach, eg encouraging gardening volunteers and providing fun-centred education for schoolchildren via its Ranger Service. Duthie Park is well known for the spectacular David Welch Winter Gardens with tropical and arid houses but few know that they contain the secondlargest collections of bromeliads and giant cacti in the UK, beaten only by the Eden Project in Cornwall, England. Membership of the Society is £5 with an entrance fee of £2. Visitors are welcome to attend a meeting for £3. Please look in the Eagle “Diary”, on the posters displayed throughout the village prior to each meeting and of course on our website for updated details about forthcoming meetings. All are welcome at our meetings; do bring a friend or neighbour. See the Eagle Diary for details of our meetings in early 2016. Refreshments are provided after each meeting to allow for members to catch up, meet new ones and chat to the speaker. It is hoped that meetings will not have to be cancelled due to adverse weather conditions, but we do our best to contact as many members as possible should this happen.

Ballater Victoria Week 2016

Yup we’re planning BVW 2016 already and to that end we held two Brainstorm sessions at the beginning of November to encourage new ideas and also hopefully a few more volunteers out of the woodwork. These had the result of bringing us a new Duck Race Co-ordinator to help keep the now 1,320 ducks in order as well as some new approaches to the musical offering and the suggestion of a mobile zip wire. Hmmmmm..! We will meet again on Thursday January 14 (venue tbc) at 2pm and 7.30pm to allow as many people as possible to come and pitch their ideas to the mix. We still need a Messy Play honcho and more help with publicity, sponsorship and advertising. If that’s your forte, get in touch: info@ballatervictoriaweek.co.uk, find us on Facebook, or call 013397 55243. Be Amused.

Alpine Tree Care Contractors and Consultants

Tree Surgeons

Covering the whole of Upper Deeside for the past 25 years We offer a complete professional tree care service to all tree owners, including the public, private and commercial sectors We aim to solve tree problems in a safe and efﬁcient manner, promoting industry-leading practice while protecting the environment Call us for advice and guidance on any tree-related issue See our website for a tour of all services we provide and to view our extensive client list

Mark Wright HND East Braehead of Coynach Tarland AB34 4XL

013398 80100 alpinetreecare@gmail.com www.alpinetreecare.com

by Cat Houston

Around £6,000 was handed out in cheques to various groups at our AGM in October Unless a volunteer comes forward to run it, there will be no Messy Play next year!

Churches’ Letter ‘Christmas is a-coming and the goose is getting fat’ – so goes the old song. Well, Christmas is rapidly approaching, and the churches in Ballater would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a happy Christmas and a joyous New Year. This time is busy for most of us. It’s a time when the ordinary seems to be ignored amongst all the hustle and bustle. It can become a focus of stress, of financial difficulty, of emotional strain. For those who don’t have family or friends around, it can be lonely and isolated. The atmosphere of celebration is wonderful, especially in such a close-knit community. Don’t lose that sense of celebration. For many, Christmas is about family and friends, about love, light and laughter at a dark time of year. This year sees the unveiling of the Ballater Nativity – a joint church and community project. Whatever your faith, the Nativity in the heart of our community serves to remind us that for Christians, the time leading up to Christmas is not only about having fun and celebrating. It’s also about refocusing our lives, preparing our hearts and minds for the birth of Jesus. It’s a season when we celebrate hope, peace, love and joy. And Christmas day itself is the time when we celebrate the coming of Jesus as a baby to this earth, the ‘Christ’ in Christmas. One of the reasons we exchange gifts is as a sign of God’s greatest gift to us, his Son. One of the joys for us is being able to share that gift with those who join us. This Christmas time, as always, we wish you hope, peace, love and joy. It would be wonderful to see you, your family and friends, at one of our services over the Christmas period. Please come and share our celebrations. With every blessing, Rev’d Vittoria Hancock, St Kentigern’s Episcopal Church; Rev David Barr, Church of Scotland; Father Chris Brannan, St Nathalan’s Catholic Church.

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

Balmoral Winter Tours

Balmoral Winter Tours Tours start on the hour - first tour at 11.00 a.m. and final tour at 2.00 p.m..

Wednesday 28th October Wednesday 4th November Wednesday 11th November Wednesday 18th November Saturday 28th November Saturday 5th December Saturday 12th December XMAS SALE No need to book just turn up on the day. Customers are welcome to wander the grounds after the tour.

Hot drinks * Snacks * Gift shop For details telephone or visit our website.

Tel: 013397 42534 web: www.balmoralcastle.com

Library News

by Sabine Muir

Winners of the Summer Reading Challenge are Dylan Monk, 9 in the 7-9 category, Claire Aiken, 10 in the 10-plus category and our youngest ever Star Reader was Caia Thompson, 1, who ‘read’ the most books during the summer. Well done everyone Baby Rhymetimes: Every Tuesday from 10.45am-11.15am. Toddler Story Time: Every Tuesday from 11.15am-11.45am. Siblings are welcome to attend. Knit and Natter: We have re-started our Knit and Natter sessions on Tuesday evenings from 7pm-9pm. People are invited to bring along their knitting, crochet or sewing work and enjoy a chat and a cup of tea. Aga’s Card: Artist Aga Brozek, who has had an exhibition of her work in the library, has recently produced a beautiful water colour painting of the station not long before the fire took place. To raise funds for refurbishments of the station, she has kindly produced blank greetings cards of the painting. If you would like to buy some, please pop into the library. (see photo) Clash Diary: Groups, organizations and charities are invited to use our new Clash Diary to list events, so that planning can run more smoothly and avoid clashing with other planned events. Deeside Books Prize Winners The winners of our Books Are My Bag colouring-in competition are: 7 and under: First Prize: Freya Garden, age 7. Second Prize: Lewis Monk, age 7. 8-12 category: First Prize: Zuzanna Lobocka, age 9. Second Prize: Findlay Croll, age 8 Children won book prizes of their choice. The Adult prize went to Audrey Redmond, who wins a £10 Deeside Books gift voucher. Well done to the winners and to all who took part.

Ballater & Crathie C.C.

Since our last report it seems that a lot has been going on, but nothing has changed in the reality of our main purpose – to represent the views of our community to anyone who has authority in public matters which affect our lives and well-being. The Local Government of Aberdeenshire has changed from being an ‘Alliance’ to SNP, and various officials have, or are about to, change, but we are still a long way away from Aberdeen HQ and some departments seem more responsive than others. Community councils were set up to be non-political, gender neutral, non-sectarian and non-racial, and I believe we can say that that describes the situation in Ballater and Crathie. Peak oil is past but both City and ‘shire apparently are again not looking to the hinterland for education and social care improvements. There still seems to be a continuance of building on the port and sea rather than future economic improvements further inland.

by Jane Angus

Over the summer, many people have been involved in various ‘weeks’, which seem to have run into each other more closely than usual, yet the fishing has had poor results and there were fewer beds for tourism available in Ballater even before the unfortunate fires. We all admire the efforts of Amy Muir and the committees and participants of the Farmers’ Market, the Winter Festival and Victoria Week for their tremendous efforts, given with imagination and purpose, to enliven all our lives. As secretary of the CC, I am still trying to find a way of allowing new residents to learn quickly what is going on in our village There was discussion with the organisers of the Etape Royale which brought so many people to Ballater and was well appreciated by those who took part. It seems to have been accepted that a second attempt could benefit from a number of changes in the consultation and arrangements.

These included an earlier date (September 11th) to give an earlier and lighter start, avoiding the Aberdeen holiday, earlier discussions with all the CCs and police, better access across Bridge Street, clearer news about parking, and better communication with residents in the upper glens. We were very grateful to John Bolton for his advice and support especially on the questions of ‘resilience’ and regret he is now unable to continue. It is very good that the bridge at Polhollich is again beautifully painted and feeling safe. It seems a long time since I originally wrote to ask for some action on the bridge from the new Aberdeenshire Council replacing Marr and Deeside Council and Grampian Region. We hope all such matters can be dealt with more speedily, but news of changes in the road snow clearance schedule does not sound very promising for those of us who depend on aging feet to shop safely in a still well supplied community. We await replies to the last letters to the new Co-operative store and Post Office and are always available to listen to information and opinions from the public. The monthly Hut on the Green availability was not providing enough information on public matters to justify the expenditure of our small funds so the easiest way to get in touch with members of the CC is still from the list of telephone numbers and email addresses on the public notice board on the Green, or just have a chat as you see us. Please do so when there are matters you wish to discuss.

WEE JIM Landscapes Wee Jim! All aspects of landscaping Mini digger and small tipper hire

Diggers!

Firewood! FIREWOOD ALSO AVAILABLE

Contacts!

James Anderson

Bridgefoot, Glenmuick, Ballater 013397 55997 07821 746756 weejim03@live.co.uk www.weejim.webs.com

Ballater 50+ Walking Group

Calling all keen walkers, both men and ladies, of 50 years plus who live in the Ballater area. The Ballater 50+ Walking Group is affiliated to the Grampian 50+ Network and we have just celebrated our first anniversary. We are in need of some new blood to swell our numbers. We walk on a Monday, rain or shine, meeting outside Glenmuick Church at 9.30am. Our walks are usually between 5 and 7 miles, sometimes flat and sometimes with more of a hill climb. Some of our walks start in Ballater and if we go further afield, we use cars to get to our start point. We try to have a 10-week plan organised to let everyone know what they are letting themselves in for. We also like to have a wee coffee after our walks to have a chat and recover! Please don’t be put off if you can’t come every week, you are free to drop in and out of the walks as other commitments allow.

by Irene Cromack

You can find more information on the Grampian 50+ Network on the internet at www.grampian50plusnetwork.com and click on ‘groups’ to find Ballater. You can contact us by using the email address within that link. Or, if you’d prefer the easy option, just ring me, Irene Cromack, on 013397 55643.

H.P.S. (Aberdeen) Ltd Integrated Building / Landscaping Services and Supplies Chanaich Lodge Provost Craig Road Ballater Aberdeenshire AB35 5NN

Tel: 01339 756336 Fax: 01339 755893 Mobiles: 07710 469563 07850 653160

Managing Director Peter Henderson Email: peter.hps@btconnect.com

Rotary Club by Mike Powell

Our fund-raising efforts at this time of year are mostly centred on the Rotary District Grand Raffle in aid of the CLAN Cancer Support Charity. This charity has centres located across north-east Scotland (including a well-supported hub in Ballater), Moray, Orkney and Shetland, offering support and wellbeing for all cancer sufferers. The prize in the raffle is a Mini car supplied by John Clark (Aberdeen), with the sponsors this year, Domino Pizzas. As a club, we have already had masses of local support, selling a great number of tickets at the Co-ops in both Ballater and Aboyne. We owe a lot of thanks to the managers of the supermarkets who allowed us to rattle our buckets and sell tickets during a busy working day! Thank you again to all the good folk in our local communities who support us in our endeavours. In the run-up to Christmas, every club in the district will take a turn in the Bon-Accord Centre in Aberdeen, selling tickets right up until Christmas Eve, when the draw will be made. The Mini can be seen on the ground floor of the shopping centre from November right through December. You may also spot Rotarians, complete with Santa hats, in your local Co-op in the run-up to Christmas, this time, bag-packing for other local charities! Another end-of-year annual project for us is the ‘End Polio Now’ Campaign which is promoted by Rotary International. Great strides have been made towards the global eradication of polio by Rotary International working alongside the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. With India and Nigeria being declared polio-free for one year, only two polio-endemic countries remain: Pakistan and Afghanistan. Most of the local primary schools have been planting pots of purple crocuses to raise awareness of this as part of the Rotary Club’s campaign. The crocus was chosen as the purple colour matches the dye which is painted on the fingers of children who have been immunised. Many thanks to Elliot from The

19 Raemoir Garden Centre for his huge generosity in helping us with the project! Finally, The Rotary Club of Aboyne and Upper Deeside wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Peaceful New Year!!

Nativity Carved

Almost a year ago our family happened upon a nativity montage being set up in the Northumbrian village of Bamburgh. We were three generations ranging from the teenagers to retirees, and all were impressed with the simplicity of design and purity of carved wood. This prompted discussions with David Barr (Glenmuick Church) and Vittoria Hancock (St Kentigern’s) along with David Horne (BRD) and John Sinclair (Chiels) and a conclusion reached that the village could only be enhanced by a similar display on the Green. The scale of the figures dictated that 8ft/2.5m logs would be essential, having a diameter over 21in/60cm, preferably in a hard, long-lasting wood – such material is not easily found, even though it grows on trees, especially as the tree is likely to be around 140 years old. At this point the project got lucky as Balmoral kindly offered us two such logs and Braemar Castle were needing to fell a number of over mature trees, yielding us five logs, all in larch, which should give the figures a life of the order of 50-100 years. It was also decided to ‘import’ the carver, who undertook the Bamburgh set, as it was not to be the easiest carve and a proven record was essential. So we became acquainted with Ross MacNeil who grew up in the Northumbrian National Park and then increased his experience by serving 10 years in the Royal Engineers including a year in Afghanistan – what a happy acquaintance. The enthusiasm of our ministers and the main financial contributions from BRD, the Chiels, The Marr Area Partnership and the Rotary Club of Aboyne and Upper Deeside were essential to this project having both meaning and substance. There were a number

by John Taylor

of other significant contributors who will appropriately be listed alongside the display. In mid-September, Ross undertook the carving in the grounds of St Kentigern’s – it took a week and was avidly witnessed by a sizable audience of local and international visitors. John Richardson helped with the finishing of the figures and David Hanson’s shiny new JCB moved the figures, which weigh more than half a ton each, and enabled the fitting of marine ply bases to increase stability. Ballater School brought a crowd of youngsters to see the carving in progress and it would be hard to determine who enjoyed their visit most – the children or the adults seeing the children so captivated. Ross carved and presented an owl for the children who, being young, did not recognise the creature until the eyes were inserted – the carving now resides at the school. As a former project manager concerned with meeting specification, on time and within budget, I set off with those same ambitions but learnt that the real measure of success was the involvement of the people. We never drank so much proffered coffee in one week before. It has been a privilege to see so many people bringing the project to completion and I am sure that the village will enjoy their own Nativity and wish our ministers joyful gatherings on the Green this year and for many years thereafter.

Feeling Festive? Opera Night

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Out & About with Fraser & Mulligan... f

The complete legal service Once again we had our yearly “Hospitality” tent at the Ballater Games. It was a glorious day and our clients enjoyed Pimms and Strawberries & Cream. It is always a good day at the Games meeting and chatting with everyone and this year our colleagues from the Aberdeen office also joined us in the afternoon.

On Friday September 4th the Lonach Highlanders and Pipe Band marched over the hill to the Braemar Castle as part of the celebrations for the 200th Anniversary of The Braemar Royal Highland Gathering. On their way they made many stops for refreshments and Fraser & Mulligan sponsored one! Nothing like a “dram” to keep your feet moving! It was an amazing sight and we were truly grateful to be part of it, a memory we will never forget.

We held a coffee morning and home bake sale in March to raise funds for Comic Relief. Amazingly we raised £500 and this could not have been achieved without the help of staff and our clients who all donated home bakes and came along for their morning coffee. A morning well spent helping those in need. Don’t forget you can post your letter to Santa Claus in the office and we will make sure he receives it...!

Fraser & Mulligan would like to wish all their clients a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

24 Bridge Street Ballater AB35 5QP 013398 55633

f m &

Buttony Bear Blossoms by Jenny Gow

In the last Eagle, we introduced Buttony, a bear that has been adapted to have a stoma and is given to children undergoing surgery to create a stoma. Since the launch of the project in May this year, 215 bears have been dispatched. The bears have been sent to families and hospitals throughout the UK. Through use of social media we follow the progress of Buttony and families participate by posting reviews and photos. Some bears have even been on holiday! Our Facebook page is updated daily and there are always photos to make you smile. We thought it would be good to share some feedback from some of the recipients of the bears. One of the nicest we received was from a big sister – “You have made my little brother so much happier. Not many children have these stomas, and it’s great to see their confidence grow because they now have a teddy who shares something with them. In the past day or two I have seen my brother’s insecurity slowly decrease. I can’t explain just how happy and proud that makes me. Thank you once again” Another from a mum – “She spent seven weeks in hospital and had Buttony at her side from the moment she received him and proudly showed everyone he had a stoma like her. I think this has helped her accept her stoma, she isn’t shy about it and enjoys showing how she is just like her Buttony. He sleeps beside her every night. Buttony Bears are amazing and they do a fantastic job in helping children accept their stomas.” We have been asked frequently to help families who have children with gastrostomies and Lynn, aka the Bear Surgeon, has come up with a new design that works. There are a large number of children in the Aberdeenshire area alone with gastrostomies for a number

of different health conditions. Check out our Facebook page for updates on the new bear. We were fortunate to receive a £250 donation from Ballater Victoria Week and this will help us provide support to some more children. We are so grateful for all the donations we have received from people in the village and further afield. I’m sure the rest of the team would agree when I say it has been a privilege to be involved with Buttony. For more information about the project please contact Jenny on 013397 55828 or Lynn on 07793 354249.

ROWAN

Upper Deeside Music by Jane Angus

JEWELLERY

Large selection of fine & costume jewellery

Upper Deeside Music started the winter season with the pianist, Ivan Ilic from Bordeaux, coming to play at Creag Megan towards the end of his Highland Tour. The venue has been the refuge of the piano which had been acquired for the society through the work of James Dunster and had been saved without damage by a fireman and Nigel Franks from the fire at Darroch Learg. It was very good that Fiona was able to sit in the audience for once. It was perhaps a pity, and the committee regretted that cream scones were not available! However, the acoustics of the dining room were superb and well repaid the furniture moving efforts of the Treasurer’s and Bergman families. Angus Davidson also ferried members and friends on the Community Bus from the Church Square, and made it possible for John Hearne to dash to Aberdeen airport to deliver Ivan Ilic to his commitment with Swiss Radio the next day.

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Mrs Margaret Jaffray had a complicated start as Secretary to UDM. Fiona Franks will be assisting her until the Darroch Learg becomes busy again, possibly in March and we are to have a peripatetic season until then. The various venues which continue to offer hospitality to UDM have all different and encouraging atmospheres, so it is difficult always to know which is best for both audience and players. The experiment of such a welcoming place and sound was most enjoyable and sympathetic for the ChopinScriabin-Antonin Reicha-Beethoven programme. The next meetings should be in St Kentigern’s when the Williams Duo return with William Blair at the organ, 4.30pm on Sunday 29th November, and then to Glen Muick Parish Church on 7th February 2016 – again at 4.30pm – when the recital will be from Robert Irvine, cello. Tickets remain at £10 with no charge for young people and H.M forces, and all are welcome.

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Crathie Opportunity Holidays

by Allan Harrison

We have had another successful season in 2015 with many return visitors. The tranquil setting, the attentive staff and the many disability aids available make it a special holiday experience for guests who may not otherwise have been able to have a holiday with their family. There are still some first edition copies of our book, “Essays on Life” by Thomas Mitchell, Farmer. These would make ideal Christmas presents and are available from COH; please contact Maggie MacAlpine on 013397 42100. Our annual Golf Day took place at Balmoral in October with 18 teams taking part. All participants enjoyed the lovely weather, albeit with a bit of frost at the start, and the event was very successful. The winners were the team from Central Investment Services, Aberdeen. Gillian Smith from Ballater won the ladies longest drive competition. Work is underway with the construction of a new office building and the installation of a new wood chip biomass heating system will start in November. These new additions will give our staff a more pleasant working environment and reduce our running costs. As always, thank you to all our local friends and supporters.

Glenalmond Linsey Blyth

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Ballater Films by Ade Scripps

What a few months we’ve had, re-assembling all the equipment following Ballater Victoria Week takes a while and we like to try and take a break through September but we were back in October with Fast and Furious 7, which was about as much fun as you can have on a cinema screen; and Cinderella was amazing and raised some funds for St Kentigern’s church. With Halloween falling on a weekend we thought to go all out and take over the whole of the V&A for our Haunted Halls event, with mixed results... The Disco was so packed we had to turn folk away... the Ghost Tour was brilliant, thank you to everyone who helped, but very few folk were brave enough to take it on... as with Psycho; that was the first time I’d seen it on a big screen, with no sofa to hide behind. By the time you read this, Sunset Song will have been shown to a packed Victoria Hall. Following mediocre box office sales for the biggest-selling movies this year, we approached with trepidation, but it sold out in just over 24 hours. Many suggested another showing, and if it didn’t cost over £800 a time for Film Mobile Scotland to bring us new films (most Ballater Films screenings use DVDs), that would have seemed an obvious option. We also had some of the folk who are in the film amongst the audience, a first for Ballater Films, unless you count Lizzie and Ryah... Stovies were supplied by The Deeside Inn, who also sponsored the event, so a big thank you to Joanna and her posse. We haven’t decided yet what to show in the new year – Bond, maybe? Star Wars would be nice. If you have any ideas and would like to join in with keeping Ballater Films going, we always welcome volunteers.

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Hilton Spirit of Service

“It has been, and continues to be, our responsibility to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality.” – Conrad N. Hilton, Founder This quote forms part of every induction that takes place in every Hilton property throughout the globe and acts as a guiding principle for all of our team members. Its meaning is as relevant today as when it was first said, and it is recognised by the feedback that we get from our customers. However, we believe that our responsibility reaches beyond the walls of our properties and into the communities that surround them. Team members within Hilton Grand Vacations Club at Craigendarroch meet regularly as a group known as the Spirit of Service Committee. This is a five-strong team of dedicated

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colleagues who have volunteered to act as champions for our guests, team members, environment and community. It is the objective for our Community Champion to engage with all sections of the community in the Deeside area, to see what assistance can be offered to the numerous good causes that people are themselves championing. Whether it be a location for or support in delivering a fundraising event, people to assist in clearing overrun gardens or at certain times of the year some financial assistance with a project, the Spirit of Service Committee is here to help. Previously support has been given to the Ballater Primary School for the “Ballater Mudblasters”, the running club that you will see during school term braving it on the cinder path and around Monaltrie Park and for use of the swimming pool for the children to take swimming lessons at a subsidised rate. We require to connect more with the community and are seeking to build relationships with as many community based organisations as is possible, to identify projects that can ensure we are delivering on our responsibility to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality. If you are one of these organisations or feel that you have a project that could benefit from having a few more people on board, please do contact us at the Hilton Grand Vacations Club at Craigendarroch on e mail at higvc@hilton. com or by phone on 013397 55858.

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Crathie School’s

Fabulous Fundraising

Crathie Primary School raised an amazing total of £375 for Macmillan at their coffee morning on Thursday, September 25. The 11 pupils in the school used their literacy and art skills to make posters and invitations to advertise the event and set up the classroom to look like a café. Parents, carers and friends of the school provided delicious home baking and pupils worked very hard as greeters at the door, waiters, waitresses, table clearers and even helped with the washing up! Later, numeracy skills were used to count and check the money donated. The morning was a fantastic community event and raised a hugely impressive amount of money for a very good cause. It also allowed the pupils to use their learning and skills in a real life situation. Everyone at the School would like to say an enormous thank you to all who helped them.

Crathie News

The

McEwan Gallery Ballater, AB35 5UB (300 yards off A93 on A939) 013397 55429 dot@mcewangallery.com www.mcewangallery.com DURING WINTER, PLEASE TELEPHONE PRIOR TO PLANNING YOUR VISIT

by Karen Garioch Our coffee morning this year was a huge success, raising around £3,000! It was so good to welcome back old friends and many new ones from as far away as Canada. We would like to say a huge thank you to our many supporters and also to our team of volunteers who make our Monday mornings such a success. Our Christmas coffee morning will be held in Crathie Kirk Hall on Monday 7th December from 10am to 12.30pm, the proceeds of which, as always, will go to the Children’s Hospice (CHAS). Please come along for some great company, fabulous home baking, Christmas carols and a special visitor! Our regular coffee morning will commence again in April next year. Crathie Hogmanay Ceilidh The Hogmanay Ceilidh will be held again in the hall at Easter Balmoral on Thursday 31st December from 9pm til the wee small

hours. Tickets are available or at the door, on the night for £5 although we are trying to raise funds to repair the roof, so donations would be very welcome. There will be a ceilidh band and raffle, please bring a bottle and some nibbles. For tickets or further details please contact Jean 42415 or Karen 42344.

Ballater School

The autumn term might seem to have passed in a ﬂash as far as Ballater School parents are concerned, but the pupils – and their teachers – have been really busy tackling a wide range of worthwhile and creative projects… P4/5 have been looking at (and building their own) Castles!

… while P2/3 told the story of Aberdoo-Rimey

P1/2 produced a bowl of strawberries in honour of healthy eating…

A Proper Playground Transformation Pupils are also enjoying the terrific new playground equipment, which includes a stage with seating, two tipis, a story telling seat, a car table, sandpit and instruments.

P6/7 created pop art of famous people and icons/brands and also remembered our war dead through the composition of Poppy Poetry

Cairngorms National Park

Knowing what visitors think of the Park is incredibly important, with over 40% of the employment in this area directly linked to tourism. The results of the 2014/15 visitor survey are excellent, with 96% of visitors saying they love the Cairngorms National Park, 98% said they would recommend the Park to others and 93% said they would visit the Cairngorms National Park again. The survey shows that the most popular activities when people get here are sightseeing and walking and those surveyed gave the Park a score of 8.8 out of 10 – that’s an increase from 8.25 in the 2009/10 survey. National Parks are known around the world as the best places in a country for scenery, wildlife, and great visitor experiences so it’s no surprise that 91% of people said they were aware that they were in a National Park with

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63% of overseas visitors saying that National Park status influenced their decision to visit the area. With 21% of our visitors coming from abroad, it’s this group that stays the longest and spends the most money. This firm evidence base shows that using the Park status and brand to attract visitors and sell services or products to them should be a natural proposition for businesses throughout the Park. It’s a glowing report and goes to show that investment in recent years by the CNPA and partners in visitor infrastructure is paying dividends. Across the National Park millions of pounds worth of investment has been made in path networks, cycle trails, path signage, visitor information, interpretation, and facilities. The visitor survey tells us that most of our visitors come here for the scenery and wildlife so it’s really important that we all strive to both protect and enhance this valuable asset while ensuring that people can enjoy it. With the Park being the last stronghold in the UK for rare species such as capercaillie or the Scottish wildcat, wildlife tourism is definitely a big economic driver these days, along with an unrivalled list of things to see and do. The Deeside tourism product is very important to the National Park economy as a whole and recent investment in projects such as the restoration of Braemar and Kindrochit castles will add to that. Most significantly the proposed investment in the Fife Arms could have a transforming impact on Braemar. Deeside was dealt a major blow this year with the devastating fire

at the Old Royal Station in Ballater – an iconic building in the heart of the community – but we look forward to working hard with all our partners on its redevelopment. While the Cairngorms National Park is clearly a winner in the eyes of visitors, the survey did highlight some areas which could be improved upon – these included public transport and phone and wifi connectivity. Work is already happening in communities across the Park – including Ballater – with high-speed broadband on the way, so hopefully future visitors, as well as the businesses that are trying to attract them, will see the benefits there. As for the 9% who complained about the weather in the visitor survey – I’m sorry, as Billy Connolly once said ‘there is no such thing as bad weather – only the wrong clothes.’ Full visitor survey results can be found at www. cairngorms.co.uk Wishing you all a Merry Christmas & Best Wishes for 2016.

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On 4th October over 20 people gathered at Ballater Golf Club for coffee and pastries to celebrate Barry Florence’s 50th birthday. However, this was a party with a difference! After coffee we boarded the BRD community bus, driven by volunteer driver Ian Ritchie. He took us up past Birkhall over two cattle grids to a large turning area, then left us! Barry had, however, mapped out a route and provided everyone with maps to ensure we didn’t get lost. We set off up a forest track through the Alltcailleach Forest (Burn of Old Woman!) on Balmoral Estate. It was a glorious day but in the shelter of the woods a bit chilly. The walk was easy on the track although climbing all the way. As you walk up through this area there is a part of it known as Loinmuie where there once was a settlement and you may remember Mike Sheridan the butcher named his house Loinmuie as this is where his descendants originated. Loinmuie means Enclosure of Field and there would have been a farm at one time but it is now all forested. Further up we went left and this took us out into the open with some fantastic views up to Lochnagar and beyond. We then set off to the top of The Coyles of Muick, where there is a large cairn. The last short bit is steep but, if you take your time, relatively easy. Once on top you can see right up to Loch Muick and you get fantastic views of Ballater, where the most prominent landmark at present is the big tent over Darroch Learg Hotel as the repairs are carried out after the fire in February. We must have had one of the best days of the year – the sun was shining and the wind was relatively light, even at the top of the hill. Barry distributed a wee dram to all for managing to get to the top and we toasted his birthday. We set off back down the same track but when we came to the turn into the forest we went straight on, walking along the fence line, also noting old-fashioned granite indicators for marches between estates in the past. The path

is well established although there is one really boggy bit, which is best to skirt round on the left. Although it doesn’t look that far, Barry found out that it was when he jumped over and landed in it, resulting in boggy breeks! The path follows the forest line on the right down the hill and is affectionately known as The Green Mile – why, I have no idea! We then join into another Land Rover track, which takes us through more forest but then it opens up on the right to the lovely Loch Ullachie. Walking past this then up a wee incline takes us on to the South Deeside Road, where we go left and walk for a short distance on the tar road. At Strathgirnock we turn right on to another Land Rover track, which takes us down to the newly reopened and refurbished Polhollick Bridge. The bridge is more commonly used in the Seven Bridges walk but has been closed over the summer for repairs and is now looking very pristine and white! Thanks to Historic Scotland, CNPA, and Aberdeenshire Council for making sure this project happened and the bridge could be reopened. After crossing the bridge you now just have a short walk on the track and go through a gate on the right and this leads you along the Dee on a grassy path to the new footbridge over the Gairn at the graveyard. Cairngorms Outdoor Access Trust carried out this work, which takes this part of the walk well away from the main road, making it much more enjoyable. When you exit the bridge, you should take a left and go around the farm then down on to the old line to ensure the residents at the farm have some privacy. This part of the walk is through oak forest and over the “Postie’s Leap”! Quite a drop into the Dee. At the end of the track you take a little path on the right and it takes you to Sluievannachie picnic area and, to everyone’s delight, Barry had enough food and drink to feed an army. I think everyone that came along can say what a great way to celebrate a birthday and what a great walk we had. Sluievannachie

A Walk in the Park:

Barry’s 50th by Katrina A Farquhar

once farmed all the area that is now the golf course and has been in the Mitchell family for over 200 years. The walk took us about three hours although we were ambling, or some of us were! And we did get a lift up to the layby past Glenmuick.

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The Charitable Chiels

As ever, the Chiels continue to raise funds and donate to worthy causes both in Ballater and further afield. We have put on our annual community bonfire and fireworks display, hampered somewhat this year by the need of a Public Entertainment Licence. Back in June we were rather busy, managing to raise funds which together with others helped our local branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland install a fresh plaque and names on the village’s War Memorial. Only a few weeks later we were awarded The Aberdeenshire Council’s Volunteer Award 2015, in recognition and appreciation of service to the community. Anyone wishing to view the award can see it in HM Sheridan’s window. Our annual golf day at Ballater Golf Club

by Scott Fraser

allowed us, along with Lindsay Barclay, to donate £10,000 to the Euan MacDonald Centre for research of Motor Neuron Disease. From this and our continued support of EMC we were nominated and shortlisted to the final three in The Institute of Fundraising Awards 2015 as Voluntary Fundraising Group of the Year. We were there along with Shimmer and Sparkle Committee (Scottish Spina Bifida Association) and Craig Gowan’s Memorial Fund (sick kids friends foundation) who took the title. We are very proud to have been nominated by so many people for these awards, especially as we are only doing fundraising in our local community which we really enjoy and let’s face it, it is the donations from the generous people of Ballater and the surrounding area that allows us to achieve so much. Thank you!

love

Slimming World Join a warm and friendly group near you today…

Victory Hall Ballater Road Aboyne Thursdays 5.30pm & 7.30pm Contact Nicola 013398 80486

Visit the website to read Zoes story… slimmingworld.com 0844 897 8000

Opening Hours: Monday 2pm - 6pm Tuesday Closed Wednesday 10am - 5pm Thursday Closed Friday 10am - 3pm

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

Our finest achievement, certainly from the Chiels’ own point of view this year, has been the realisation of a project to honour one of our founding members, while also providing a safe haven for hillwalkers and climbers. This we have been able to do with the help and support of His Royal Highness the Duke of Rothesay along with Balmoral Estate and the Mountain Bothy Association. After a lot of planning, site visits and meetings, we got the go-ahead to put the refurbishment of Gelder Shiel bothy into motion. A date was set and the Chiels’ work crews got on with the job in hand, – every effort was put in. So much so that the lion’s share (that’s the lion’s not the Tiger’s share) of the work was done in one weekend. The Chiels funded the project and carried out the majority of the work but we also had the assistance of a great bunch of lads from the MBA and Balmoral Estate. We could go into more detail about what was all done but we think the best way to find that out would be for walkers and climbers to either stop in past or go and use the bothy to experience the benefits of our labour of love. In October we had a Dedication Ceremony to rename Gelder Shiel, “Ernie’s Bothy” after the late Ernie Rattray. Up at the Bothy were HRH the Duke of Rothesay, Balmoral Estate, MBA, members of Ernie’s Family, Chiels photographer Amy Muir and many of The Chiels. Prince Charles and Ernie’s wife Dot unveiled a plaque to the memory of Ernie.

La Mangiatoia Ristorante & Pizzeria

Closing for annual holidays Reopening December 28th after annual 18th November. Re-openholiday 27th December Bridge Square Ballater Tel. 013397-55999

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Marie Curie Upper Deeside Fundraising Group

by Angus R Clark

by Sabine Muir

We are going to have an Information Evening on Thursday 21st January at 7pm at the library, to which everyone is invited. Lauren Edwards will attend to answer questions about our work and Ingrid Penny will introduce the new Helper Service. Helper volunteers support people(and their families) living with terminal illness, not personal care but with things like a chat over a cuppa or spending time with the person allowing families to take a few hours break. More info will be available on the day. Marie Curie Christmas Cards We have a nice selection of Christmas cards

Memories of the Mill of Cosh

available from the Library. Please pop in for a look. 100% of the profits from the sales go to Marie Curie, to provide care to terminally ill people in our area. We are currently planning events for the forthcoming months. If anyone would like to join our group, please get in touch with our secretary Sabine Muir.

On the back cover of the No.73 Spring issue of the Eagle, there was a photograph of the water wheel for the meal-mill at Mill of Cosh. Well I remember the wheel and the mill – my father John Clark was the last miller to operate the mill and I was brought up there as a child. He was a miller at Craigmills, Strathmartine, Dundee, where I was born, and he took over the tenancy of Mill of Cosh circa 1933/34, working the mill and the croft until he died in 1940. There was a sawmill worked off the same water-wheel, where he made fence posts, railings etc. The dam for the mill was further up the Girnoc Burn, and the water from the dam, when opened, ran back into the burn, then to an intake, and a lade ran down to the mill-wheel. The kiln for drying the grain was a fine place to be on a cold winter’s day, but one couldn’t stay long because of the fumes coming up through the metal plates. The oats had to be turned and tumbled with long wooden shovels. I think the furnace was fueled with coke/ cinders. I remember the lorry coming in about with its load – Richie of Aboyne. As for other mills run off the Girnoc Burn, Littlemill Farm, which was my home after the Mill of Cosh, had a sawmill and threshing mill, each with paddlewheels, later adapted to run off the pulley of a Fordson tractor. The forester of Abergeldie estate stayed at Bridgend Cottage, and the sawmill there was an over-shot bucket-wheel. The intake for this sawmill was just downstream from the bridge at Girnoc, and this was later used, I understand, by the salmon conservation fishery. There was no other mill after that, as the Girnoc Burn soon met with the River Dee.

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TV Review: Scandal

ABC

by Sasha Potter

We seem to have been inundated on television with an influx of political drama in recent years, The West Wing, The Good Wife, Homeland to name a few, but Scandal for me has been one of the most enjoyable. That’s not to say it’s the best – if you want something excellently executed both cinematically, as well as in terms of writing, I would point you towards House of Cards. However, Scandal boasts an irresistibly likeable main character. What gives this show its enduring appeal, four seasons in – that’s 69 episodes – is its central character, Olivia Pope (Kerry Washington). A high-flying lawyer, she and her team of misfits specialise in ‘fixing’ seemingly impossible situations. Feared and respected in equal measure in this republican-run version of Washington DC, you can’t help but wish you were her. But this is only half the show, and each half feels remarkably

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different tonally. The lawyer’s office often feels more shabbily written, the characters are not as interesting or believable, and it feels more like a crime show than anything else. The other half takes place in the White House itself, where Pope’s involvement in the president’s campaign led her into an affair and all the complications that entails. This feels firmly rooted in political drama and intrigue with some scenes being exceptionally well written. She constantly brings the fragile administration back from the brink, which is truly a joy to watch. As the seasons progress, we see her character slowly picked apart as she becomes increasingly unstable and morally compromised. It is fascinating to see what makes up the great Olivia Pope. Conflicts between traditional republican, conservative values and modern culture are also tackled. How does the Chief of Staff deal with coming out as gay? How does the first lady appear both as a credible political candidate and the traditional dutiful wife the core republican voters expect? It also somehow manages to portray politics in a relatively neutral way, which can be a hard thing to do. It doesn’t prompt viewers to bring in their personal political values. You don’t see the characters for their politics but for

themselves, and ultimately that puts Scandal more on the drama side of political drama. The themes running through this show are very human. The main driver of the plot is Pope and the president’s strung-out affair and their struggle to find a way through the political and social mud to be together. This aspect explores the length to which love can be strained and compromised before it becomes untenable, which while repetitive is what keeps you coming back. There are constant questions of morality and how much you should sacrifice in the name of the ‘republic’ and protecting the innocent. Is it worth the sacrifice of a person’s soul to keep a nation safe? This is an endlessly fascinating theme in the show as the characters get increasingly lost in the ethics of politics. It’s all a bit Machiavellian. Cinematically, Scandal is not particularly strong. It doesn’t tend to do anything out of the ordinary with direction but perhaps it’s just not the type of show that should be obtrusively artsy. It doesn’t have the slick, smooth style of House of Cards. Having said this, costume is a very important element of Pope’s character. She is never seen in anything but black, white and grey, a visual reflection of the theme of right and wrong running through the seasons. There are several mentions of wearing the metaphorical “white hat”, symbolising the good the characters can do in the world and their struggle to hold on to personal moral integrity. As for the structure, I mentioned there have been 69 episodes in just four seasons; a volume of content I am just not equipped to deal with, coming from the UK with standard 6- or 13-episode seasons. I still maintain that 22 episodes is simply too long for a season story arc. There are the inevitable episodes that have absolutely no bearing on the main plot which, while entertaining, are just not necessary. Scandal sometimes doesn’t know what type of show it’s trying to be but it is endlessly absorbing. Plus if you like it, you’re in luck because you’ve 69 episodes to watch!

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Pottering About... by Stella Potter

As we prepare our 80th edition, it’s been great fun looking back on old issues. I found a box of them before the photocall (see back page) Leafing through our 50th edition I was reminded of that fantastic feeling of freedom when my head was shaved. Since then I have kept my hair mostly short with the patient help of the lovely Dominee. Believe me, she has needed to be patient. She didn’t bat an eyelid when I asked her to leave a small longer section at the back so I could grow a plait down my back which will always remind me of my natural hair colour as I seem to becoming greyer by the day. I like the hair around my ears trimmed with a number 2 attachment, and have clippers to DIY it between appointments. One morning I decided a wee trim was required. I found the oil one must use each time and oiled the blades. All fine so far. I plugged it in, removed my

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glasses and myopically yet very enthusiastically strimmed away round both ears. Plenty of hair fell in the sink so all still seemed good. Popped my glasses back on to admire my efforts and looked in growing horror. I hadn’t put the attachment on and had created seemingly random bald patches. Ooops. I donned a hat and went to see Dominee. She had the grace not to laugh and told me I wasn’t the first to make this mistake and doubtless wouldn’t be the last. She made the very best of my really bad job and I assured her I wouldn’t do it again. A few months later I was sitting with friends in glorious sunshine at a fabulous festival. I was bemoaning that with my youngest soon off to uni I’d have to do the plaiting of the back section myself. It isn’t easy plaiting behind your own head. So in great festivalling spirit we came up with a solution… dreadlocks. There might have been too much sunshine – or something – but no sooner thought than executed. Half an hour of twisting and something odd with a crochet hook transformed the unkempt plait into three mini dreads. It wasn’t until I returned home I realised the flaw in the plan. Dreads need nurturing and that’s just impossible behind your own head! Oh dear. They needed cutting off, but I wasn’t going to do that myself. Perhaps I was learning my lesson? Shamefaced I went to try Dominee’s patience again. She saw my face and asked what I’d done now. To her credit she didn’t laugh or tut, and to my joy managed to comb them all out to return my plait. Also now it’s growing well I’m getting slowly better at plaiting behind my head. My youngest will be impressed! My patience is still regularly tried by Willow, the part-wild cat who deigns to share my home from time to time. I’m convinced he’s trying to severely injure me. Sometimes, when I’m going downstairs he’ll suddenly and silently appear from behind me and stand stock still on the next step. Thank goodness for the banisters I frantically clutch at to avoid tumbling down. When I’m bringing in washing or wood

Willow the Cat. Grrr.

he’ll again do his sudden, silent standing stock still thing. I’ve tripped over him more than once, either tipping out the washing that was clean or the wood I’d so carefully packed into bags for carrying upstairs. I’ve sported some vibrant bruises and grazes from this. If any of you good readers have any advice as to how this weird behaviour can be curbed I would be very grateful. Yes, I have fleetingly considered violence as my body pumps with that horrible feeling of adrenaline rush, but I’d rather something kinder! I’d also like to apologise to my neighbours who may have heard some loud, frustrated, rather unladylike language directed at Willow. Finally, noting that this is our festive season issue, may I wish you and yours a grand time however you choose to celebrate, or not. Cheers!

by Bell Macaulay The summer months have sped past in a blur, and here we are contemplating Christmas. By this time, you will all have rushed around buying and preparing, and be ready to relax and share the goodwill of the season with family, friends and community (or maybe like me you’re a “last minute” person!). Community shows, Weddings and Celebrations – our halls played host to annual events such as the Ballater Royal Horticultural Society’s Show and Upper Deeside Art Society’s exhibition. We had a sprinkling of weddings both local and from further afield, and this is an area which could be expanded now we have an attractive venue in the Albert Hall community suite – can we work together with other local businesses to offer package deals? There is a slow but steady rise in the number of family celebrations, and of course there are the wonderful films for all the family throughout the year. We are indebted to Ade, Cat and their team for this and for many “one-off ” events, some more successful than others. The Halloween fundraiser took over the entire Halls complex with a sterling effort festooning every nook and cranny with webs, spiders, ghouls and ghosties and much moaning and groaning! The kids’ disco was spectacularly successful, but the spooky tours and showing of “Psycho” less so. I enjoyed them, but if we repeat the event next year, what would encourage you to join in the fun? Local Groups – The many local groups regularly using the Halls are now in full swing,

taking advantage of the reduced rates for them. It is essential that groups remember to treat the halls with respect and clear up after each use – if not, we WILL charge you! Some groups find difficulty setting up chairs etc. and if you can offer some help, normally once a month, please make a New Year’s resolution to lend a hand – talk to Gordon Riddler or me, and we can put you in touch. Ballater Youth Club – we are all delighted that our cellar space will be used again by the Ballater Youth Club, encouraged by Rev. David Barr who has plans to help the group improve the room. We have also organised two First Aid Courses which were fully subscribed, and will cover any Public Entertainment Licence issues. Website, Information and Bookings – thanks to Faye, we have a very useful online system. The accuracy does depend on the information supplied, and formal submission of a booking form by all is the only way to ensure you get what you want. To check, go to www. victoriaandalberthalls.co.uk. Keeping the Halls in good order – it is no mean task to ensure that all the halls are ready for each booking, and we are indebted to Karen and Frances our hallkeepers who take such pride in the building. Trustee Dr Doug Glass has responsibility for maintenance issues. Don’t forget we rely on users to tell us when such issues arise - please record in the diary which is kept on the windowsill in the Mike Sheridan Room store. You can also email Doug on douglas.glass@nhs.net. Fundraising – “Afternoon Tea at the Albert!” – our Sunday afternoon concerts have been very successful, so join us for Advent at the Albert on 13th December with mince pies, home bakes and entertainment by the Ballater Songsters. Tickets priced £8 available from Yule’s newsagents or tel. 013397 55745. Further such events are planned – why don’t you consider organising a fundraiser for us – something completely different, perhaps? Refurbishment – The Refurbishment Group is seeking information and guidance regarding installation of an alternative, more effi-

cient form of heating for the Albert Hall, and also at how that area might be insulated to improve the comfort of Halls users. Once any decision is taken about what options to follow, the next problem will be obtaining funding. Be assured, we are trying hard to continually improve the facilities. The Halls Trust and meetings – after much discussion, the format of our meetings will change to reflect community needs and interest. Two General Meetings per year will welcome all – the Annual General Meeting in November and one Open Meeting, probably in May. There are many decisions to be taken over the coming months and so Trustees will meet regularly, as will teams dealing with specific issues. We have a Board of Trustees who work very hard on all the aspects of Halls management, maintenance and future development. MORE HELP! We would love to recruit more help, both as trustees and assistants to spread the load. In particular we need a secretary to take the minutes for us, help with marketing and promotion, events management and fundraising. If you can help in any way,

we would be delighted to hear from you. Membership – Access to external funding may depend on our ability to demonstrate that the community supports the Victoria and Albert Halls, and recognises the importance of its service to the community. Membership does not commit you to anything other than that. Please consider signing a membership form – it is free! It will also ensure that you receive newsletters at regular intervals. Contact Janet Riddler Tel. 013397 55308 for further information. Funding – our team is constantly on the lookout for opportunities to tap into external funding, and Isla Imrie recently applied for assistance from the Co-operative Local Fund. She has just heard: “Congratulations - you are through to our Member Voting stage! I am delighted to inform you that Victoria and Albert Halls Refurbishment Programme ID Ref: 0000813 has been selected to receive an award from the Co-op Local Fund in your area. This means that you are guaranteed to receive some money to help your cause when funds are distributed at the end of February 2016. All members of The Co-operative Group will get one vote and be able to place this vote to support their favourite cause when voting opens on 16th November. “ Please help the Halls make the most of this opportunity by voting: visit www.co-oplocalfund.co.uk Voting closes at 5pm on 11th December.

FINALLY! A very Happy Christmas and a Guid New Year to one and all. Remember, these are YOUR Halls – make a New Year’s Resolution to get involved! HANDY NUMBERS – Bell Macaulay – 013397 55745 Gordon Riddler – 013397 55308 Karen Forsyth – 07921 460368

48 Memories o’ Victoria an’ Albert Halls: Part 1– by Mary Munro The Halls complex his fairly changed o’er the years, since the days fan I wis a young geet. That’s inevitable, for naethin or naebody bides the same. In the Fifties, afore the bonny new school wis biggit at the fit o’ the hill, we hid three classes doon at the Halls, for the auld school wis burstin at the seams. We mairched, crocodile style, fae School Lane tae the Halls ilka day, and back again for playtime an syne back at denner time – great exercise for growin legs! It wis walked in a’ weathers, bit ye hid yer liberty bodice, wi wiven stockins attached, beets or wellies, pixie hoods or balaclavas an woollen gloves on strings roon yer neck, sae we cam tae nae hairm, an we bairns treated a’ this as a bit o’ fun. P.IV wis far the kitchen is noo, aff the Supper Room (now the Mike Sheridan Room) – a foosty, dark wee roomie, wi tiers o’ desks in the alcove. Auld Miss Maitland ruled that room wi a rod o’ iron. Sma-bookit an bent she may hae been, we were still gey feart o’ the lashins o’ her tongue, sae I sweir ye learnt oot o’ fear mair than onythin else. Altho’ only acht year auld, I wis as ill-trickit as the next ane, efter hoors o’ sweiten awa unner her steely gaze. A pal o’ mine, Neil Forbes, an me eased tae pass rude noties back an fore, jist tae brak the monotony. Ae day, I surpassed mysel, writin a’ the sweir wirds I could think on, whether I could spell them or no! It fair made the twa o’ us keckle and splutter ahin oor hauns. The teacher’s heid snappit up – I sweir she could hear a flee climbin up the wa – an in her icy voice, “Bring that paper to me!” Shakin like a leaf an knees turned tae jeely, I handed o’er the notie, thinkin, “I’m in for it noo!” She read it withoot comment, barrin her moo tichtenin tae a hard line, syne she jist said “Right – I know your mother well – I’ll keep this to show her how you waste your time in class!” That wis the worst punishment o’ hell, far waur than a dunt on the airm wi her neive,

or a rap o’er the knuckles fae her steel ruler, for I kent my mither an faither wid be black affrontit that their ae yowe lammie kent a thae fool wirds! For wiks efterhin, I lived in fear an tremblin, bit naethin happened! Thon teacher wis nae feel, an she kent that keepin me in the limbo o’ suspense wis the best punishment she could hae thocht o’. It fairly cured me o’ caperin aboot wi noties! P.V wis anither Miss Maitland – she wis aye ca’ed young Miss Maitland, an she ruled in the Supper Room. It wis a much airier an roomy place, bit nae bonny an warm wi’ tartan carpet back then. Altho’ there wis strict discipline, the atmosphere wis nae near as tense wi her. The only drawback tae learnin wis the big, lang windaes, for they drew yer e’en, especially on fine days. Ye dwalmed awa far up tae the shimmer o’ heat haze on Glenmuick Braes, an ye wished ye were up there listenin tae the cackle o’ grouse or the keenin o’ a whaup o’er the heather. That Miss Maitland hid good ideas tae encourage bairns tae learn, an she set us a competition in the simmer holidays, for the best collection o’ pressed wild floo’ers. I myne rakin the waterside, the parks an braes, naming the floo’ers afore they were pressed an syne stuck intae a muckle notebook. I wis fair tricket tae win, an I aye hae the prize – “The Observer’s Book of Wild Flowers”. I suppose nooadays, horror o’ horrors, it’s an offence tae pick an press wild floo’ers. Changed days!

The last class, P.VI, wis held in the Albert Hall – I aye stop short as I cross the threshold noo an my brain flees back tae the ten year auld quine fa sat there. It wis as cauld as Death itsel in the lang winter months. There wis a fireplace, bit I some think ye only fun a glimmer o’ heat richt up aside it. Ane or twa days, fan iron-hard freest held a’thin in its grip, the ink froze in the inkwell on yer desk an the milk-bottle taps were pushed up by the frozen milk aneth. We aften hid tae sit wi jaickets an hats on. Nooadays, bairns are sent hame if the heatin gings doon alow a certain level, an the teachers wid hae a “walk-oot” – quite richt tae! Those were the days afore Health an Safety, an E.U. rules, days fan ye jist tholed things an bairns an teachers jist gloried on as best they could. The teacher, Lily Smith fae Braemar, wis a fine body wi a cheery face, an teachers hid tae teach handwork an sewin as weel as the three Rs. Ae term, the loons hid tae weave raffia mats, much tae their disgust, an the quines sewed muckle, coarse-material bloomers, mair like shapeless cotton shorts – horrible, auld-farrant things! We were pushed ahin the free-standin blackboard tae try them on, an I aye myne the loons wid try tae keek in aneth tae gie us a reed face! Ye lookit oot on bonny Craigendarroch Hill, glorious in ilka season, covered in snaw, fresh green come spring, the oaks full-leafed in simmer, bit bonniest o’ a’ fan the glory o’ Autumn set the trees aflame. The teacher wid files tak us for Nature Walks, or in tae the White Widdie at the fit o’ the hill. It wis heaven tae escape for a file fae the mysteries o’ fractions an sic like. Maybe it wis a harder time, harder than in the modern, computer-laden classrooms o’ the present day, bit we did learn, despite ony hardships. A body tends tae suppress some o’ the bad days an dwell mair on the fun, happier times – that’s only human nature, bit I’m sure that maist o’ the bairns that hid education doon at the Halls were nane the waur o’ it! (Part 2 of Mary’s memories will appear in the spring issue of the Eagle).

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Water, Water Everywhere by Sheila Sedgwick

Ballater owes its origin to water. Water is everywhere around us on Deeside – sometimes too much of it, when places like the Caravan Park are flooded and people are “washed out”. Water, always a dominant force in the area, was as long ago as the Bronze Age, considered by our ancestors to be the prime source of life. So rivers, lochs, wells and springs were revered. The Dee itself, named after the Roman goddess Deva, and other sources of water became places of pilgrimage and expected help. In the days when folk lived in the glens, before Ballater came into being, superstitions and belief in magic were powerful factors, so gifts were offered to make the spirits kindly disposed to the inhabitants. We all know the adage “Bloodthirsty Dee, she needs three (bodies), bonnie Don, she needs none.” There were many holy wells, perhaps the most famous being Tober Mhoire at Little Inverey, associated with the Grey Monk, reputed to have brought Christianity to Deeside. The sick were taken to wells, to walk around three times anti-clockwise, before being immersed. On New Year’s morning, then 6th January, the first girl to drink from the well would marry within the year. Water was associated with fertility so was credited with the power to promote life. Women anxious to become pregnant made offerings to the spirits of the water, but many visited a “magic” stone near the water, putting a breast through a hole in the upright stone. One can be seen near Dinnet. Lochs had magical powers, as at Loch Muick and at Loch of Aboyne where a piece of cloth was hung on a tree and a wish made. A very potent area was where streams met, and many tributaries flow into the Dee. Most potent of all was a river crossed by a bridge used by both the living and the dead. This was known as “Unspoken Water”. The Muick Bridge was particularly important – the living crossing it when going about their business and the dead on the

way to burial. The bridge represented transition from this world to the next. Water from here was considered to be a “cure-all” if collected at dawn or twilight and splashed over human or animal or even a haunted building. According to legend, kelpies were in many stretches of the Dee and its tributaries. A kelpie – each uisge in the Gaelic – was disguised as a horse, usually black. Before the days of bridges, it waited at crossings and fords to offer a weary traveller a lift. Once in deep water, the rider was thrown and drowned. The Braemar kelpie, in human form, made advances to a widow at Mill of Quoich. The miller was also interested in the widow, and when he saw the man-kelpie, he hurled a stone that broke the kelpie’s leg. He fell into the mill dam and drowned. Before the 1745 Rising, Elspet Michie discovered the “magical” properties of Pannanich water that led to the development in that area by Francis, and then William Farquharson which led to the creation of Ballater. We owe it all to water. We have inherited much from our primitive and superstitious ancestors and no longer believe in “magic”, but for many of us there is still magic around when we look over a bridge and see the glory of the setting sun reflected in the water. (Editor’s Note: Sheila Sedgwick has contributed to every one of the 80 issues of Ballater Eagle. Her wonderful tales of life in our valley have been greatly appreciated by many of our readers and the Eagle team is very grateful for her continued support over all these years.)

A Stage Coach with Horses by Ian Cameron

Old Deeside Ways Folklore and History from the Glens of Royal Deeside and Beyond

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We had bought raffle tickets for seats on ‘The Royal Highlander,’ an 1870s coach that had been restored, painted and lettered as the coach that ran from Aberdeen to Braemar for many years. This coach was to re-enact the run, this time from Braemar to Aberdeen on the Friday and Saturday of 21st/22nd August 2015. We paid the tickets and promptly forgot about it until the organisers phoned to check up that we could manage on the day, as we had won two seats on the coach for the stage between Dinnet and the Belwade World Horse Welfare Centre near Dess. Margaret and I said: “Yes please!” This re-enactment run was organised by Ewan MacInnes, the owner of ‘The Royal Highlander’ coach, who also runs Maryculter Carriage Driving Centre. The run was held in aid of the RSABI, a Scottish agricultural charity, and was held over two days. Friday’s run started at Braemar with Ewan MacInnes driving his own team of four bays. After a short halt at the former Inver Hotel, he carried on to

Crathie and the first change of horses. Ken and Anne Ruthen from Boreland, near Lockerbie took over with their Dutch black Gelderlanders. This was the rig that we met trotting into the car park at Coilacreich Inn. The horses were quite beautiful, and so well trained, their shiny hooves and white socks lifting in unison, reminding me of my long-past army training and the drills we learnt! The coach was resplendent in the Deeside Coach colours of yellow and black with red wheel spokes. It amazed us to find so many passengers sitting high up on the top of the vehicle. Even before the coach came to a halt, two girl grooms had climbed down from the rear seats to run forward and hold the lead horses. To welcome the passengers, Paul Anderson and his wife Shona played Scottish music on their fiddles, accompanied by a visiting American musician friend on his Irish bagpipes. Altogether, a sight not seen nor heard at Coilacreich Inn since the last coach gave

way to the first of the Great North of Scotland Railway early buses around 1902. We hurried off to get to Dinnet where we were to join the coach, leaving the travellers to be entertained and fed hot soup before driving down to Ballater. We arrived at a busy Dinnet, the word having got around, and everyone was waiting to take photos of this stage coach and horses. By this time the ‘Royal Highlander’ had changed horses in Ballater and the chestnut team of Gelderlanders belonging to Richard Lanni from Bridge of Earn, set off for Dinnet. The car park at Dinnet was too congested for the next change-over of horses so the chestnut team was changed over at the Clarack farm, just outside Dinnet. For the day’s last stage to Belwade World Horse Welfare farm at Dess, the coach was drawn by John Stevenson from Durham’s Friesan/Highland cross ponies. Great excitement in Dinnet car park as ‘The Royal Highlander’ wheeled in behind the fresh team. First the Ballater passengers had to alight, and only then did we appreciate how high off the ground the outside seats were on the roof of the coach! With some trepidation we climbed up the ladder and gained our seats; then we took stock of our new station. These stage coaches were built with seats for 12 outside passengers, and the coachman and guard. There were four more seats inside the coach, a total of 18 seats! I found this quite amazing as Strachan’s Deeside Omnibus Services early 1920s motor buses only carried 20 passengers.

Our coachman, Dan Borsey, tugged the reins, our guard gave a tune on his horn and we were off. Once rolling along towards Aboyne we appreciated just how smooth this 1870 coach was to ride in. What one forgets is that the early motor cars’ suspension and chassis owed a great debt to the evolved design of these coaches. I have driven on the Deeside Road for the last 50-odd years yet from our lofty perch on ‘The Royal Highlander’ we were seeing things in back gardens, fields and woods that I had never seen before, and, what is more, time to see it. Running parallel to us was ‘The Deeside Way’ on the track of the old Deeside Railway line, the railway line that ran from Aberdeen to Ballater. This was the railway that put the Deeside stage coaches out of business, but here we were travelling on Deeside in a real stage coach and horses, 49 years after the railway had closed! At Ferrar Farm roadend, home to Horseback (UK), we met an armed and masked highway man on a multi-hued horse but a toot from our guard saw him off. Our team of horses kept up a steady 10mph and the regular beat of their hoofs had a quite a soothing effect. One could well understand portly travellers falling asleep, but perhaps it was the effect of mine host’s porter at the last coaching inn stop. Anyway, speed is a relative sensation. One fine spring morning in 1982 I travelled by Concorde from Heathrow to New York in three hours, 18 minutes and 20 seconds but that flight will never compete with the pleasure Margaret

and I enjoyed in the 55-minute horse-drawn coach run from Dinnet to the Huntly Arms in Aboyne. This short exposure to how one should travel has explained many things that I had often pondered. We started to understand how the great coaching inns on Deeside had extensive stables, coach houses, hay lofts and servants’ quarters, and how the villages catered with saddlers’ establishments when you notice the amount of leather goods involved in harnessing, seats, saddles and boots. In addition, we cannot forget the blacksmiths to tend those busy hoofs, and, as in Ballater, the actual coach builders creating what I can honestly say were works of art. The sheer amount of labour employed in supporting what was a huge local industry must have been staggering. And the romance of horse travel! I can remember a great aunt telling me of a young relation who lived at the Bridge of Muick, who could never resist jumping up on the back of carriages and coaches as they slowed down to cross the bridge. Now I can understand why. Finally I would like to record our thanks to Ewan MacInnes and all his team for allowing us the privilege of joining them on their 2015 Braemar to Aberdeen re-enactment run with ‘The Royal Highlander’ coach and the four teams of beautiful horses.

Carnelian

“Feel Good Factor”

Lynn Park – Massage Therapist Swedish Remedial Massage Thermo Auricular Therapy 1 Netherley Place, Ballater Tel 07793 354249

Marie Chapman Soft Furnishings, Tarland Hand and machine work available for curtains, pelmets, tiebacks, cushions, Roman blinds, curtain alterations etc. A large collection of fabric samples. Roller,venetian,vertical, pleated, intu, perfect fit blinds, curtain rails and poles all available. Complete job taken care of from measuring to fitting.

Tel. 07833 175470

Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone ~ Charles M Schulz

mariechapman123@gmail.com

Forbes Duguid Painter & Decorator Tel .55816 el.55816

Keeping Council One of the highlights of each month for me is the Ballater Farmer’s Market. Fresh fish, flowers, ‘different’ fruit and veg, cheese (I have to try and swerve that stand – cheese is my weakness), too many tempting cakes and puddings and, above all, a great chance to bump into people and have a catch up. September’s event was blessed with absolutely perfect weather – not a cloud in the sky, summer had arrived at last on Deeside.

That weekend also saw the inaugural Etape Royale. Hundreds of people from all over the country – and overseas – turned up and I was honoured to stand in for Provost Hamish Vernal and present the prizes (he had bravely come out in the dark and launched the event but then had another engagement). I managed to speak to a lot of competitors and the overwhelming view was that it had been the best event they had taken part in – the organisation, from their perspective, had been fantastic, the weather was amazing, and the views… Many people just hadn’t realised how absolutely stunning this part of the world is and that has to be good for tourism because they will go away and tell their friends and families! For me the day was made very special as much to my complete surprise, the daughter of one of my oldest friends who I haven’t seen for 20 years or so managed the fastest time from Rhynie overall – well done to Tess Lawson and we are looking forward to seeing her next year! Having been involved in discussions with David Fox-Pitt (the organiser) and his team from the beginning, what impressed me most was when you took a problem to them – they addressed it. A good example was Daidh Barr,

with Geva Blackett

who was worried that carers would not be able to move around the village and help people; many like to go to church and that is a good way for him to be reassured any vulnerable parishioner is in good fettle. I took this to David, who met Daidh and between them they sorted it out and the day ended with a wonderful service in the church attended by locals, competitors and visitors alike (plus the church got some cash for hiring out the hall to the event for registrations!) In short, I found the ‘can do’ attitude both refreshing and inspirational! Of course, such a huge event does not, in its first year, happen without the odd hiccup! Accommodation was a problem – in very short supply; some businesses did not do as well as they had hoped; the message that you could get through to Ballater all day via the South Deeside Road was perhaps not as clear as it might have been and from a Braemar perspective there were a few signage problems and the lack of public transport was not good. David Fox-Pitt attended the Ballater & Crathie Community Council and he has separately been in touch with councillors and members of the public to get as much feedback as possible. So if you had a problem this year – or you have a suggestion for next year’s event – just tell him! October saw the re-opening by Provost Vernal of the Polhollick Bridge – he was accompanied by Douglas Harper, who is the great-grandson of John Harper who built the bridge back in 1892. Douglas has written a wonderful book to grace any coffee table called River, Railway and Ravine, which you can buy in the Ballater bookshop and solve some of those awkward Christmas present dilemmas. Any Christmas lunch excesses can then be walked off on the Seven Bridges Walk, now that it is back up and running again. As always, you can contact me by phoning (013397) 41541 or by email cclr.g.blackett@ aberdeenshire.gov.uk – I am here to help!

...and Katrina A Farquhar Aberdeenshire Council has launched a new website www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk It is hoped this will be much easier for residents to use and has some new features. When you open the home page, at the top it has three boxes: Pay, Report and Request. By clicking these, you instantly open a new page, for example with “Pay” it opens a page to show you what can be paid online This ranges from council tax, school meals, liquor licence fee, to images and sports events. If you click “Report”, you can let the council know in an instant about road or car park faults, dog fouling, benefits-changing circumstances and even if you come across any archaeology find! By clicking “Request” you can join the library, check food hygiene results on premises, and there is a list to let you find clubs, societies and events in our area. You can also send information in about events and clubs. Back on the home page, you can check which day your bins are collected, apply for a council house, join active Aberdeenshire, and

view school terms, or any school closures. Of course there is lots more, but this just gives an idea of what is available. Green Dog Walkers Aberdeenshire Council has launched a Green Dog Walkers scheme which is a nonconfrontational, friendly way to change attitudes about dog fouling in Aberdeenshire. Volunteers wear an item of GDW merchandise or their dog can wear a GDW collar to show they have taken the pledge to always: 1. Clean up after their dog. 2. Carry extra dog waste bags. 3. Be happy to be approached to provide a dog waste bag to those without one. 4. Be a friendly reminder to other dog walkers to clean up after their dogs. If you have a group that would wish to run a Green Dog Walker Scheme in your area, a free starter pack is available by contacting greendogwalkers@aberdeenshire.gov.uk or telephone the dog warden on 01569 768224.

58 Catwoman in Freefall by Janet Bailey

Liz Robinson, the co-ordinator of the Deeside Branch of Cats Protection, quite literally rose to another challenge on Sunday 4 October 2015 to face one of her fears and raise money for the branch at the same time. Unlike the shark dive of 2013, on this occasion her endeavours found Liz at the height of 10,000 feet in a Cessna 182 where she conquered her fear of heights by embarking upon a tandem skydive. This took place at Errol Airfield in Perthshire and to begin with was touch and go because of cloudy conditions. However a window of opportunity presented itself before midday and a terrified Liz completed her jump. On her own admission she felt sick with nerves when the plane door opened and she stood with one foot on a tiny step with nothing to hold on to. Seconds later she was out of the plane and with her instructor taking the controls of the parachute and fantastic views all around Liz finally began to enjoy herself. Once on the ground Liz was keen to go back up for another jump but the clouds rolled in again and no one else jumped that day. Although Liz raised the fantastic sum of £1,000 we continually need to raise funds to keep the branch going and enable us to help as many unwanted and neglected cats and kittens as possible. The two main expenses for the branch in any given year are vet bills and essential maintenance on and fuel for the indispensible van which is needed to transport the cats and kittens we help. For these reasons contributions of cat food, blankets, litter and litter trays, scratch posts, bedding and toys are always most welcome likewise financial donations are greatly appreciated. Even the smallest of

Find out more at www.deeside.cats.org.uk, find us on Facebook, or telephone us on 07837 342 660

Shanghai Takeaway Finest Chinese, Peking, Thai & Cantonese Cuisine

10 Golf Road, Ballater AB35 5RE

013397 55666 Telephone Orders Welcome donations can help a cat or kitten receive vital medicines, a good meal, a safe environment and help us to ensure they receive the loving homes they deserve. Of course we realise that unlike Liz and the volunteers at Deeside Cats, not everyone loves our feline friends. Resembling their big cat cousins in Africa, they are efficient hunters and do not distinguish between rodents or songbirds. Understandably this causes distress to those people who encourage avian visitors to their gardens. With this in mind, the Cats Protection organisation pursues an active policy of neutering rescue cats and ferals alike to reduce the number of unwanted cats and kittens in the future and also help safeguard garden birds. It has to be a win-win situation. At this special time of year, Liz and all the volunteers particularly wish to thank the wonderful Lesley McCracken and her team at the Co-op in Ballater for all their help and support over the last 12 months. Also to anyone else who has supported us in any way we send a great big “Thank you”. We could not do what we do without you! Interested in joining us in 2016? New volunteers are always welcome and just a few hours a month of your time could be a great help.

Opening Hours: Open 7 days a week Sunday to Thursday : 4pm – 11pm Friday & Saturday : 4pm – 11.30pm We only accept cash

All of us would like to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy

New Year

dp opticians 45 Bridge Street, Ballater 013397 56222

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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)

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from The Eagle Team x image: www.seecrazy.com

Advertisers’ Index Alexandra Hotel

26 Allan Milne Joiner 44 Alpine Tree Care 12 Atholl Countrywear 8 Balmoral Castle 14 B.W. Book Keeping 50 Bill Yule 9 Brakeley Gift Room 60 Brian Smith Funeral Services Ltd 60 Cairngorm Crafts 40 Carnelian 55 Celicall Crafts 42 C.S.M. Aerials 39 C.S.M. Handyman 25 Cordiners 16 Deeside Deli 44 D P Opticians 59 D’Tangled 28 Davidsons Chemists 13 Deeside Inn 63 Deeside Tree Care 10 Drummond Enterprises 49 Edward J Emslie 27 Flame Boiler Services 13 Forbes Duguid 55 Fraser & Mulligan 22 Glenalmond Beauty Box 26 Glen Lui Hotel 50

H M Sheridan Ltd H.P.S. Ian Murray India On The Green Keiller Brasserie La Mangiatoia Laurie & Company Marie Chapman McEwen’s of Perth McKay & Innes Morven Veterinary Centre Phoenix Chip Shop Riverside Cottage Cafe Rowan Jewellery Roy Mitchell Shanghai Takeaway Slimming World Speedwell Framing Stephen Clark (SRC) Techbox The Hair Loft The McEwan Gallery The Oven Valet The Silver Thistle Tornaveen Plumbing Vans2U Wee Jim Firewood/Landscapes

35 18 52 21 29 39 37 55 2 43 38 26 19 24 8 59 38 50 30 34 25 30 27 35 41 35 17

THE DEESIDE INN

Christmas Bash £10 PER PERSON 12th december

A SIMPLE SUPPER AND MUSIC BY THE

MAD FERRETS TICKETS LIMITED

Live Music Georgie

26th November 8pm | tickets £6 AVAILABLE AT THE DEESIDE INN

The Ark FREE GIGS Into 6th December | 8pm Alasdair Johnston

Jam Sessions

Paul Anderson

Scottish fiddler 11th, 25th November, 5th, 12th, 20th November, 9th & 23rd December 17th, 22nd & 29th December

FRIENDS AND FAMILY VISITING THIS FESTIVE SEASON? IF SO, WE HAVE

excellent

Winter Rates

AVAILABLE! PLEASE ASK A MEMBER OF THE TEAM FOR DETAILS

T R A D I T I O NA L

CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH £59 £25 PM .95

per adult

.95 3.30

per child

£69.95 HOGMANAY DINNER per adult LIVE MUSIC AND DANCING

SPACES ARE LIMITED FOR BOTH FESTIVE EVENTS SO EARLY BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, TO MAKE A RESERVATION OR TO BUY A TICKET, CALL, EMAIL, OR JUST DROP IN & SEE US!

The Ballater & Crathie Eagle is made possible by:

Advertising, Donations, Sponsorship, Fundraising, “Awards for All” Lottery funding, and Cairngorms Leader + European Funding. Thank you to everyone who supports us. We deliver FREE from Crathie to Cambus O’May. Thanks to Friends of the Eagle for delivering to some outlying areas.

TH T ’S EntertaA inment!

We had a terrific response to our appeal to get at least 80 people on the Church Green for a Flashmob Photocall to celebrate this, the 80th edition of the Ballater and Crathie Eagle, at the October Farmers’ Market. A grand total of 87 people from all walks (and wheels) of life came along – you count ‘em! Photo: Cat Houston

“Eagle is 80!”