Web issue 105 we1

West End 1

Free magazine

Issue 105 May-June 2016 Bieldside, Cults, Broomhill, Holburn

a gazette magazine

imagesense.co.uk

For a birds-eye view of your property/business/development

Tel : Email : info@aerialsense.co.uk Successfully introducing local people - local businesses since 2005

landline: 01224 949085 mobile : 07813 964 875 email : mail@gazettemagazines.com web : www.gazettemagazines.com

try our hardest to ensure accuracy of editorial content but no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. The views expressed within the gazette are not necessarily those of the publisher or advertisers. When replying to offers, competitions and other correspondence, we would strongly recommend that you check published information with each organisation beforehand. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. We thank you for taking the time to read the small print.

independent publisher All enquiries : Sue Simpson Disclaimer : Whilst we’d be flattered if you would like to borrow something from the gazette be polite and ask first! Thank you. We

2

W

ell here we are in May. Beautiful weather (I hope), the garden starting to bloom and a general feeling of being alive and happy.

Well that is my version of May, but it’s my birthday month so always in a good mood!

Let’s kick off by starting to walk to school, it’s not far, commitment is a week but once you’ve started - why stop? Have you tried Dark Matter rum? Then take a read of our article and discover this gem on Royal Deeside. Have you got some beautiful photographs, or a picture you’ve painted yourself and you’d like to get it framed? Then head to Holburn Street and speak to Elaine at Junction Arts as she is all things expert on framing, as well as having a very nice gift shop too.

Although sad to see friends move on I am delighted for George, Jordan and Jessica that they are off on a new adventure and the Ferryhill and Fourmile have sold on to very capable hands. I look forward to following the success with the new owners - wishing them well for the future.

Couple of school fairs kicking off with Broomhill in May and Harlaw at the beginning of June, I hope you can go along and support the hard work of the PTA Committees from both schools.

In this issue there is something for everyone, young, old, male or femaIe I hope you will manage to take some inspiration from the magazine, so go and refill your cuppa and read on...

Until next time,

Sue

Delivered bi-monthly to : 6000 letterboxes in Bieldside, Broomhill, Cults, Holburn, Ashley and Woodland at Pitfodels Ad-hoc contributions from : Susan Brookes-Morris; James Baggott; Pippa Greenwood; Jane Grieve Distribution - thanks to : Sue; James; Mary; Benjamin; Lois; Amy; Bruce; Jessica; Abbie; Alison; Mitchell; Gayle; Holly; Chloe; Daniel and Anna.

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

Deadlines: del fm 7th 27 Jun - July/Aug 27 Aug - Sept/Oct 27 Oct - Nov/Dec 10 Dec - Jan/Feb 2017 27 Feb - Mar/Apr 2017 27 Apr - May/Jun 2017

Bieldside Cults Holburn e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

National Walk to School Week National Walk to School Week takes place from 16th -20th May. The week is promoted by Living Streets who provide classroom packs and ideas for activities to encourage more children to safely walk to school.

It’s estimated that only half of 7-10 year olds do the recommended one hour exercise per day and studies suggest that many children are obese or overweight when they leave primary school. Encouraging children to walk to school not only helps them to stay trim, but also reduces the risk of heart conditions and other diseases in later life, and means that they are more alert in the classroom on a day-today basis.

Walking is also better for the environment as it reduces congestion and pollution. Fewer cars

and parking outside schools also means there is a reduced chance of accidents and injuries.

Many children find it fun to walk to school with their parents or friends and look out for particular things along their route.

Observation sheets are available which provide an opportunity to tick off things seen along the way, such as a church, shop, or petrol station.

For those who can’t walk to school with a relative, being part of a walking-bus may offer a solution. Children walk with volunteers in a group along a designated route, dropping off passengers at schools along the way.

By Susan Brookes-Morris

Introductory Offer for Landlords …

…Management Fee!

Why not try our Personal and Reliable Service!

01224 611606 info@parkhillproperties.co.uk

Terms and Condition Apply

Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

3

Culter and District Pipe Band

A

re you interested in learning the Drums or the Bagpipes?

We would love to invite you along to learn with our Pipe Band.

We meet on a Monday and Wednesday at Culter Mills Club from 7.00pm – 9.00pm.

Tuition is provided for Bagpipes, Tenor Drum, Snare Drum and even the Bass Drum.

If you would like to come along for a practice, then please contact our Band Manager: Alison Marsh Tel: 07939 143680 or e-mail alisonomarsh@gmail.com

Golden Years – Memories of 50 years ago

I

t sometimes seems that the world is being engulfed by an unstoppable tsunami of terrorism. The Islamic world in particular is in flames from Nigeria to the Hindu Kush; the seas and beaches of the Mediterranean are awash with a flotsam and jetsam of drowned refugees; and as nobody can agree either on the cause or the solution there seems no end in sight.

The present horrors are on such a vast scale because the political upheavals that caused them were themselves so vast.

But if you look back 50 years you might perhaps conclude that little has changed: in 1966 the Vietnam War was intensifying; the Biafran War was erupting; India and Pakistan were also at war; as many as 70,000 Egyptian troops, as well as Saudi

Dr Michelle Hickey would like to take you on a calm, tranquil, mercury free and non-toxic dentistry experience.

395 North Deeside Road Cults Aberdeen AB15 9SX

t: 01224 860220 4

Book your appointment today... e: info@dentalinspirations.co.uk www.dentalinspirations.co.uk

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

and Jordanian forces, were bogged down in the eight-year Yemeni Civil War. Nowhere, it seemed, was immune – not even Britain, where on 7th May 1966 the petrol-bombing of a Belfast pub started a fire that burned for 28 years.

The conventional narrative of the Troubles is that the flashpoint came in August 1969 with the Battle of the Bogside, three days of nationalist riots in support of Northern Ireland’s hithertopeaceful Civil Rights movement. The riots followed a bloodless bombing campaign against water, telephone, and electricity installations which was blamed on the IRA and which forced the resignation of the province’s moderate prime minister, Terence O’Neill. But in reality, the violence had started three years earlier, and the IRA – which at the time was virtually defunct – had nothing to do with it.

campaign against discrimination against the province’s Roman Catholics in jobs, housing, education, public spending, and political representation, and O’Neill was well-disposed to negotiations. Alarmed, the Protestant community reacted. Ian Paisley founded the Ulster Constitutional Defence Committee and its paramilitary wing, the Ulster Protestant Volunteers, and an exmilitary policeman named Gusty Spence founded the Ulster Volunteer Force. It was Spence’s UVF that drew the first blood.

The Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association had been formed in 1964 to

On 8th March 1966, the IRA summoned up the energy – and the dynamite – to

Wake up to make-up on?

Beautex

within Kumiko

» Fed up having to pencil in your brows? » Are you suffering from alopecia or any other condition that causes hair loss? » Or would you simply like to cover an old brow tattoo which has gone pink?

Phibrows Microblading is the solution Phone and book with Jelena 07512 762 431 or 01224 594 777 Beautex Club 89 Gray Street, Aberdeen Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

5

blow up a statue of Nelson in Dublin.

Spence’s UVF retaliated two months later, petrol-bombing a Catholic-owned bar in the largely Protestant Shankill Road. The only casualty was the bar’s neighbour, 77-year-old Protestant widow Matilda Gould, who died of her injuries in hospital six weeks later. And with that horrible irony, the Troubles had begun. In the years that followed some 3,600 were murdered – nobody knows for certain how many. Maybe 800 of them were security personnel, and many of the civilian dead were terrorists themselves – again, nobody knows for certain how many. Most, though, were blameless pubgoers and passers-by, bombed or shot at random, or chosen for torture and death as suspected informants.

But how did it all come to an end? Who won and who lost? Well, democracy won, as it always does. The nationalists secured some concessions, but as long as Northern Ireland remains firmly attached to the UK they can hardly claim victory. The Troubles fizzled out because the insurgents ran out of energy and the democratic politicians kept their nerve. They were tough, uncompromising, and determined. But

they made it clear that while the terrorists weren’t going to win anything, there’d always be a place at the table for them – as in Israel, Kenya, and Cyprus – if they renounced violence. In the end, and after serving 18 years for murder, even Gusty Spence, the man who started it all, saw sense and became a democratic politician.

Could the same process bring peace to the Middle East? Could Al-Baghdadi one day take his seat as a Syrian MP? Remember Menachem Begin; remember Jomo Kenyatta; remember Archbishop Makarios.

Perhaps we should send Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness to Razza to talk some sense into him!

Happy 50th birthdays to Janet Jackson (16th), Eric Cantona (21st), Helena Bonham-Carter (26th), and Heston Blumenthal (27th).

Cake and botox to you all!

Come & see what we do!

and check out our annual sale

SALE 50% All stock must go... with 10% Discount on New Orders worth a visit to help us make way for new designs 197 Rosemount Place, Aberdeen 01224 622522

6

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

Beer at Home

By Ted Bruning

Something like 1,000 new breweries have opened in Britain in the last 10 years, and even though pubs are closing and alcohol consumption is dropping, almost none of them have gone bust.

Clearly they’re doing something right, and much bigger, older, uglier breweries are trying to figure out what. And – joining being a function of not beating – some pretty unlikely candidates are turning to that ol’ sincerest form of flattery.

The unlikeliest of them all being Guinness, perhaps the biggest one-product beer factory in the world.

Back in December we had a look at Guinness’s West Indies Porter and we liked it. Now it’s summer and we’re looking at Guinness Golden Ale (4.5% abv), and do we like that too? Well, no. For a start, it’s not golden – in fact it’s closer to copper than gold. And then there’s the nose: “like feet, or warm Stilton – lactic and sour,” was one comment. “Sugary – diabetic trucker’s pee,” was pithier still. The

palate? “Thin and sharp.” “Where’s the malt?” “Soda water.” And the finish? Short and sharp with a hint of sour apple. So, not a favourite, then.

From Black Sheep of Masham, North Yorkshire, which celebrated its silver anniversary last year, comes a more promising attempt at a “craft” beer. Black Sheep is best known for its eponymous bitter, which is a superbly executed albeit dead traditional malty brown beer formulated with the Yorkshire palate firmly in mind. A golden ale, whose floral hop aroma should burst out of the glass at you like a flower-filled hand grenade, is something of a departure. Have they nailed it with Golden Sheep (4.7%)? Yes they have – although admittedly its more of a fruiterer’s than a florist’s.

This is a Yorkshire thing. Yorkies are more about malt than hops and a golden ale is usually more about hops than malt – most even have a dose of wheat malt to keep that body light. But this is a curvaceous mill-girl of a beer: malty nose with notes of lime and cherry; rounded Pimms-y palate ripe with strawberries; then green fruit or even apricot in a long, astringent, thirst-quenching finish. By the ‘eck! Wakes week must be early this year!

BEAUTY TREATMENTS I SKIN TREATMENTS I LASER TREATMENTS

Sign up to our newsletter on our website and get 25% off your first treatment, visit definitionclinic.co.uk/gazette25 www.definitionclinic.co.uk

info@definitionclinic.co.uk

01224 433111

19a Chattan Place, Aberdeen AB10 6RB, Scotland

@DefinitionSkin

@definition_skin_clinic

facebook.com/DefinitionClinic

Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

7

CHOCOLATE CHIP AND NUT BISCOTTI These crisp Italian biscuits are baked twice to give them that extra crunch.

Serve them with strong coffee or a sweet dessert wine for dipping.

Makes approx 20 biscuits Ready in 50 minutes 50g butter, softened 100g caster sugar 1 medium egg, beaten 2 tsp orange zest 175g plain flour, plus extra for shaping 1/2 tsp baking powder

40g blanched hazelnuts, roughly chopped 40g dark chocolate chips

1 Preheat the oven to 180C, 350F, Gas 4. Line a large baking sheet with baking parchment.

2 Put the butter and sugar in a bowl and beat together with a wooden spoon until very pale and fluffy. Gradually beat in the egg and orange zest.

3 Sift over the flour and baking powder and add the hazelnuts and chocolate chips. Knead on a lightly floured surface to a soft dough, adding a little more flour if the dough seems sticky.

2 Divide the dough into two pieces and using lightly floured hands shape each to a 18cm x 8cm log. Place on the baking sheet, well spaced apart, and flatten each one slightly with the palm of your hands.

3 Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until firm and light golden. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and leave to cool for about 10 minutes.

BROOMHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL

SPRING FAIR SATURDAY 21st MAY

12pm – 2pm

4 Carefully transfer the two logs to a chopping board. Use a serrated knife to cut each log on the diagonal into 9-10 slices. Return all the slices, cut-side down, to the baking sheet and bake for a further 10-15 minutes until crisp and golden brown.

5 Transfer the biscotti to a cooling rack and leave to cool completely. They will keep in an airtight container for 2-3 weeks.

TIP :For a flavour variation, replace the nuts and chocolate chips with sweetened dried cranberries and mixed peel.

8

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

Body Stress Release a Gentle Technique to Relieve Tension and Pain Body Stress Release is an effective non-invasive technique which helps release muscle stress, often the underlying cause of pain.

BSR can help with Back pain, sciatica, slipped discs, Neck pain, arthritis, whiplash, hip pain, frozen shoulder, RSI, Migraines, headaches, neuralgia, TMJ problems, tennis elbow, gyneacological disorders, dizziness and many other ailments.

For more information visit BodyStressRelease.org.uk or just call me to make an appointment.

Ionela F. Borodatencu

BSR Practitioner, MBSRA (UK)/BCMA Reg.

07880 – 69 55 69

Cults

ionela@bodystressrelease.org.uk Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

9

Why we ‘MAKE’ the best picture framers!

Our passion at Junction arts has always been to bring together the best the UK has to offer in up and coming art and contemporary design, only working with artists and independent makers that provide unique affordable pieces that you will be equally passionate about.

The picture framing service was born as a natural progression from this, firmly holding the same ethos, providing great quality affordable framing for not only local artists but for our customers alike.

Now 5 years on we wanted to remind you of exactly what we can do...

THE PERFECT FINISH...

So whether its artworks, limited edition prints, textiles, photography, a wedding gift, jigsaw puzzle, treasurers from a recent holiday or a Frisbee, (yes we’ve even framed a Frisbee) we can do it all from our fully equipped in-store workshop. Nothing will ever be sent away it stays right here where we take great care with everything entrusted to us.

GETTING IN TOUCH...

It’s easy, either pop into the store or for more convenience quotes can be given by phone or email, all we need is a general description of what you’re looking to have framed and the size.

Every item is unique and that’s the joy of picture framing, as no day is ever the same.

We hope to see you all soon.

GETTING IT RIGHT...

The team @ Junction arts www.junction-arts.co.uk

Borders, slips, glass types, flat frames, box frames, hand finishes or not, there’s a lot to think about and it can be daunting but don’t worry, as well as 15 years of framing experience between us, we feel communication is key and always take the time and care needed to advise you on the very best way to frame your items.

Simply bring your items into the store and with the use of our extensive sample range we can help you choose exactly the right look. All members of our team also have creative backgrounds which gives us an extra eye to help you choose.

10

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

Harlaw Academy, Albyn Place

Hidato

Summer Fair

Starting at 1 and finishing at 49, track your way from one square to another, either horizontally, vertically or diagonally, placing consecutive numbers into the empty squares as you go. Some numbers are already given.

22

16

24

30

13

31

8

26

10 Tours round the school Former pupils memorabilia Rock challenge performances Music performances Children’s entertainment and stalls

2

1 45 40

Chocolate stall, tombola, bottle stall

4 46 42

49

©puzzlepress.co.uk

34 36

Something for everyone!

Entry price: Adults £2, Children, £1 (incudes refreshments)

14

20 28

Saturday 11th June, 12pm – 4pm

Some parking available on-site

west with style H A I R

&

B E A U T Y

Let your colour shine this summer...

Book your free consultation with one of our Wella Professional trained stylists to see how we can bring your colour to life this summer.

L UNIT 6 ASHDALE DRIVE WESTHILL ABERDEENSHIRE AB32 6LP www.westwithstyle.co.uk

Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

TEL 01224 741313/744927

11

Electrolysis the permanent removal of unwanted hair

Unwanted facial & body hair is a common problem affecting as many as 80% of ladies in varying degrees. Most areas can be permanently cleared of unwanted hairs with electrolysis including hair on the upper/ lower lip, chin, cheeks, neck, chest, abdomen, underarms, bikini line and the eyebrows.

Majority of clients will be happy, well balanced people with hair growth concerns that are purely ‘cosmetic’; others may be self-conscious or even quite distressed when they take their first tentative steps through the door.

I may frequently encounter the perceived problem of hirsutism (male pattern hair growth on females) I can offer helpful and objective advice plus information to the client. In some cases where I feel there may be some abnormal systemic condition I will refer the client to their gp who may make a referral to a specialist, but in the vast majority of cases there is no underlying medical pathology and treatment at my centre is the usual outcome.

The advice and treatment offered should be sufficient to resolve any normal problem, and the result is usually a restored sense of confidence and wellbeing in the client.

Causes of hair growth • Mechanical Stimulation Plucking, (including waxing, threading, sugaring), abrasion • Normal Systemic Puberty, pregnancy,

12

menopause, ie times of normal hormonal changes in the body.

• Abnormal systemic Hormone influencing medication ie steroids, contraceptive pill and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), fertility drugs.

• Disease eg endocrine disorders affecting hormonal secretions from the glands of the body.

• Operations eg hysterectomy, removal of ovaries.

• Stress (may only stimulate hair growth when severe and subsequently triggers hormonal imbalance eg in anorexia.

Electrolysis the only proven method of permanent hair removal of unwanted hair, having been around since 1875. With the use of the Apilus computerised system I can offer differing treatment methods to best suit your hair growth and skin type. Unlike laser or IPL, electrolysis is ideal for sensitive skins, dark, light and grey hairs and any colour of skin as it is not affected by pigment in the hair or skin! Electrolysis targets only the unwanted, individual hair and so the skin remains unaffected. It is a progressive treatment resulting in permanent removal of the hair and not just hair reduction!

A very fine needle (equal diameter to the hair to be treated) is inserted down the side of the follicle and a mild current is applied. This causes localised destruction at the root of the hair allowing the hair to be lifted out of the follicle. A mild tingling sensation is felt but soon passes with the application of a soothing gel!

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

re you one of the 80% of women affected by unwanted facial and body hair?

Apilus Platinum Pure Electrolysis treatments can put YOU in the 20% The APILUS PLATINUM PURE - 100% PERMANENT RESULTS MORE RAPIDLY » State-of-the-art technology - 27Mhz radio frequency to permanently & rapidly eliminate ALL hair types of ANY colour » more effective - works twice as fast as any other epilator by optimising energy concentration in the hair follicle » more comfortable - the 27Mhz radio frequency so swift & concentrated that treatments are much more comfortable than conventional electrolysis » incomparable effectiveness & comfort

Jenny former nurse, anelectrologist electrologist specialist with 14 Jennyaaformer formernurse, nurse, isisan specialist withexperience.

15 years Jenny, is an electrologist specialist with 13yrs experience.

Book an£10 appointment today and with get results yourself! years experience. £10 off first first treatment this postcard off treatment THE AGE OF ULTRA COMFORTABLE ELECTROLYSIS IS FINALLY HERE!!

Finally say goodbye to unwanted facial/body hair

Indoor Poster Sample 3.indd 1

m nu i t : 594 777 Pla een tel: tel01224 594 777 s u l d i r p e mob: 07843054 054393 393 t A Ab mob: 07843 Firs re in 89 Gray Street, Aberdeen Pu

Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

13

4/23/2014 3:23:45 PM

Beer Amber Aroma Barley Barrel Beer Bitter Blonde Bottle Brew Bright Cask Copper Firkin Gas Golden

Grain Hops Landlord Licensee Malt Porter Pump Real Ale Sugar Tap Tawny Traditional Vat Yeast

Find the names associated with beer in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase

CODEWORD Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. As you find the letters enter them in the box below.

12 6

26

17 17

14 19

25

7

20

10

12

8 23

17

10

10

17 24

14

13

4

6

16

26

26

20

24

24

14

23

15

2

20

10

7

20

A

13

15

T

12 7

13

7

7

9

21

S

9

20

6

24

21

7

15

7

17

14

7

26

6 7

6

7

9 3

7

5

14 20

23

10

21

14

17

18

10

21

10

21

5

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

10

24 5

7

15

6

21

21

11 10

15

21

15

9 6

21

26

20 1

4

6

3

7 20

21

7

14

22

13

9 3

7 2

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

15

Clubs and classes are making a comeback!

Thanking all our customers for the last 25 Years relaxed atmosphere with personal attention specialising in wedding hair for the whole bridal party.

If you have a club or a class and you would like to list it on our pages then re-submit your entries asap.

Tel : 01224 322000 Devonair Hairstylists 2 Devonshire Road Aberdeen (off St Swithin St)

Deadline:

A

27 May for the West End bit 2 mag little of and Italy...

...in Little Belmont Street

27 June for the West End 1 mag

We have been serving fine italian cuisine since 1977.

Extensive à la carte menu for lunch and dinner.

5 minutes walk from His Majesty’s Theatre and Music Hall – special lunch and pre-theatre menus.

Freshly baked home mode home made pizzas with lashings of toppings.

Tender pasta dishes full of tasty ingredients and luscious cream sauces. Seafood, prime steaks, chicken dishes, all with that extra touch of genius which is true Italian cooking!

Name of class Day www.poldinos.co.uk Time Where Contact infoLittle ...in Open Monday to Saturday: 12 noon to 2.30pm & 5.30pm to 10.15pm

7 Little Belmont Street | Aberdeen | AB10 1JG

of Italy...

A little b A little Abitlittle of bit Italy... ...

in Little Belmont Street

...in Little Belmo

We have been serving fine Italian cuisine since 1977.

Belmont Street

Extensive à la carte menu for lunch and dinner.

5 minutes walk from His Majesty’s Theatre and Music Hall been serving fine italian c We have

- special lunch and1977. pre-theatre menus.

Extensive à la carte menu for lunc We have been serving fine italian cuisine since baked home-made pizzas with lashings of toppings.

Extensive à la carte menu forFreshly lunch and dinner.

Look forward 5 minutes walk from His Majesty’s to hearing from Tender pasta dishes full of tasty ingredients and luscious cream – special lunch and pre-theatre me sauces.

Seafood, 5 minutes walk from His Majesty’s Theatre andprime Musicsteaks, Hall chicken dishes, all with that extra you all.– special lunch and pre-theatre touch of genius which is true Italian cooking! menus.

Freshly baked home mode home m

Open Monday to Saturday 12 noon to 2.30pm and 5.30pm to 10.15pm Tender pasta dishes full of tasty ing steaks, chicken dishes, all with that

made pizzas with lashings of toppings. mail@ Freshly baked home mode home 01224 647777 Tender pasta dishes full of tasty ingredients and luscious cream sauces. Seafood, primeGift 7 Little Belmont Street | Aberdeen | AB10 1JG Open Monday to Saturday: 12 gazettemagazines.com steaks, chicken dishes, all with that extra touch of genius which is true Italian cooking!

Vouchers

Available www.poldinos.co.uk 7 Little Belmont Street

Open Monday to Saturday: 12 noon to 2.30pm & 5.30pm to 10.15pm

Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

7 Little Belmont Street | Aberdeen | AB10 1JG

| A

15 www.poldinos

Achieve your 10,000 Paces the Easy Way!

exercise with a friend or socialise with people in the bar afterwards but this somewhat defeats the object.

Tim Sant, Head of Dance for Ceroc, the largest dance organisation in the U.K, says, “Many people are happy to undertake pastimes and hobbies that improve their social circle and provide them with an element of fun. If exercise can be combined with this all of the boxes are ticked and more importantly if all of the boxes are ticked, people will not only continue with the exercise, but will revel in it.

W

ith growing concerns about obesity across the U.K, the government recently issued health warnings, resulting in a recommendation that everyone should take 10,000 paces every day.

People have been advised to take extra trips up and down their stairs at home. Workers have been told to park further away from the office and to walk that extra distance, whilst parents have been encouraged to prise their children away from their computers in favour of more active play.

Intention is a wonderful thing, but how easy is it really to rack up those 10,000 paces and who is actually hitting their target?

Traditional exercise like going to the gym, aerobics classes and jogging are obviously going to have an overall positive affect on your fitness, appearance and health, but the word “exercise” still repels some of us.

Even when we finally bite the bullet and join a gym how many of us continue with the regime?

How many of us pay our gym membership thinking it will make us go - only to find it’s money down the drain?

So what is it that stops us?

In actual fact nothing, except that the forms of exercise mentioned are very individual and consequently can be quite anti-social. You can

16

If dance is one of the answers the question is how will it affect our fitness levels and how many of those 10,000 paces will be used?

Toni Whitehouse, mother of two and self-confessed Ceroc addict tried wearing a pedometer during a normal Ceroc night and was amazed at the results.

“I bought a pedometer after the ‘10,000 pace’ hype started and I found it really tough to hit my target even when I opted to walk the kids to school,” said Toni. “When I used it at Ceroc I couldn’t believe the results! In just one evening of dance I managed to rack up more than 12,000 paces and, what’s more, I was having fun doing it!”

Ceroc is a fun and social partner dance which originates from French Jive - a combination of Rock ‘n’ Roll and Swing dancing but without complicated footwork. It’s easy to learn and because you continually change partners you are likely to dance with 20 or more people in a night and will probably meet up to 70 others!

All this suggests that Ceroc is a form of exercise that really works to get you fit - and stay fit!

There are over 120 Ceroc nights in operation across the U.K so the likelihood is that there is a class nearby for you to attend. For more information about your closest venue visit - www.cerocscotland.com or call 07813 269372.

Take this article along and benefit from free lifetime membership plus your first class free!

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

ferryhill

HOUSE HOTEL t: 01224 590867

www.ferryhillhousehotel.co.uk

keeping it fresh this spring

t: 01224 740318

www.fourmile.co.uk

Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

17

Home Visits Free Car parking Open Late night Tuesday - 7pm & Saturday - 4pm

E graeme.mckay1@sky.com facebook.com/gsmckaypainter

Ab

e

een Carpe rd

ry

Accredited by RACH for Children’s Eye Examinations

T 01224 312786 M 07931 290160

nt

All eye examinations covered by NHS Optical Coherence Tomography for early diagnosis of Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration and Retinal Conditions.

Digital Retinal Photography Visual Field Analysis Emergency Eye Appointments Large range of Designer frames and specialised spectacle lenses

-INTERIOR/EXTERIOR WORK -PAPER HANGING -AIRLESS SPRAYING -PAINT EFFECTS -KITCHEN UNIT PAINTING -GLASS GILDING -TRADITIONAL SIGN WRITING

WE WILL TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENTS and supply all the services to see the job through start to finish

Our promise: To provide our customers with the highest standards of quality, efficiency and professionalism

*DOMESTIC*COMMERCIAL*

Scott Gilmour BSc(HONS) MCOptom Dip Tp (IP)

5 The Courtyard, Cults, Aberdeen AB15 9SD

Aberdeen Carpentry

info@sgoptom.co.uk www.scottgilmouroptometrists.co.uk

Telephone : 01224-863344 18

Full Joinery Services Doors - External & Internal Finishings, Skirtings & Facings Wood Flooring & Laminate Fitted Kitchens Decking

• Custom Made Summer Houses & Sheds

• • • • • •

WORKING TOGETHER

FOR A NO OBLIGATION QUOTE OR ENQUIRIES CONTACT: T: 01224 248247 Les: (M) 07961 557 430 Doug: (M) 07983 744 727 www.aberdeencarpentry.com

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

• Property Maintenance • Office Refurbishments • Partitions & Suspended Ceilings Cei eilililing ngs ng

50

Y EXP EARS ERIE NC

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

E

Pets Thinking of a guinea pig as your family pet?

G

uinea pigs can be an ideal choice for young families looking for a ‘low profile’ pet. Although certainly low profile in terms of size, they live for five to six years on average so this is not a short-term commitment.

As inherently social animals they are happiest when living as part of a group, or with one other guinea pig. It’s not a good idea to buy two male guinea pigs together, however, unless they are from the same litter.

reaction to dusty bedding or by being in a draught. It’s important to provide them with a constant supply of dust-free hay, and toys they can chew on to prevent their front teeth from growing excessively.

A diet rich in vitamin C will help to keep them healthy. Dark green leafy vegetables are ideal, as are oranges and melons, which help to redress their natural vitamin C deficiency. Make sure they also have a constant supply of fresh water, either in a heavy bowl or a gravity-fed bottle attached to their cage.

Guinea pigs need to feel secure, both inside their hutch and when they’re being handled.

Always pick them up with both hands, and either sit down or hold them close to your body to keep them safe. http://www.petsathome.com/shop/en/ pets/guinea-pig-care-advice

Human contact is also very important, and they will thrive on gentle interaction with you and your family.

Are there any specific health issues to consider?

Eye and respiratory problems are often experienced, and are usually caused by a

Kippie Lodge Aberdeen’s Sports & Country Club

with Creche facilities, kids classes, lessons, camps and family fun days, Kippie really is a family Club.

Kippie Lodge Sports & Country Club North Deeside Road Milltimber. Aberdeen 01224 734747 www.kippielodge.co.uk

Kippie has a packed schedule for 2016 with something for all ages. Contact us for a tour of our facilities today!

Memberships currently available Untitled-1 1

Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

17/03/2016 08:10:12

19

For him, inspiration just wouldn’t let go. Having sampled a few local drinks in the Caribean, he began to wonder if it might be possible to produce rum in Scotland. The idea kept nagging at him until he thought he’d better find out a bit more about how rum was produced. He tried to arrange a visit to a local rum distillery, only to be refused at every turn. However, this lack of knowledge didn’t put him off, and by the time he returned to Scotland he had a name for his ‘yet-to-be-created product’, Dark Matter.

But an idea and a name is just the start. It’s at this moment most people would be put off, well aware that great ideas usually seem more attractive when relaxing away from home and dreaming on an idyllic beach. But as soon as Jim was home, he set about persuaded his brother, John, that making rum in Scotland was seriously do-able.

D

ARK MATTER

By Jane Grieve

It has a mysterious, intriguing name, an indication of the innovative imagination that lies behind one of Scotland’s most unusual products.

It’s also a name to remember. After all, Dark Matter is the first and only rum to be produced in Scotland. As the company celebrates its first birthday, it looks like it’s here to stay.

Several years ago Jim Ewen was on holiday in the Dominican Republic, relaxing with friends and family over a few cocktails. Having worked in the oil industry for some time, he was set for a change and was keen to start his own business.

The only problem was ‘what’?

It has been known for many of us to have crazy ideas while sipping cocktails under the sun. But most of us forget about them as the heady mix of alcohol and heat work their magic. Not Jim.

20

A long period of research began, followed by the practicalities of how to finance this endeavour.

It is never easy to raise funds for any new enterprise, but this was something so new, so different and so unusual that it was particularly difficult to attract support.

However, eventually perseverance paid off and Jim and John were set to start. A suitable premises where the product could be produced and bottled was sought and found in the heart of Deeside. The North Banchory Company were welcoming and helped the brothers to establish themselves in a business unit. Cory Mason, a distiller then based at Herriot Watt University’s Institute of Brewing and Distilling, was brought on board as his expertise would work out how to produce the ideal rum. Equipment was acquired, testing and tasting ensued, a delicious spiced rum was perfected and finally the first bottle of Dark Matter was a reality.

A year later, Dark Matter has over 350 stockists throughout Scotland, word is spreading, sales continue to grow and already the company has won considerable accolades, most notably The Rum Masters’ Gold Award for 2016. Jim says

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

the North East of Scotland has always had a taste for dark rum, a remnant from trading days perhaps, and the same can be said of Glasgow. But now he detects a change in the attitude to rum in Scotland and the UK as a whole. In the late 90s vodka went through a resurgence in popularity, and recently gin has become the ‘in thing’. But as people like to sample something new, cocktails are popular and different tastes are always intriguing, rum is becoming an increasingly popular option.

So how should we consume Dark Matter?

Everyone has heard of Rum and Coke, but Jim has two favourite suggestions to keep our taste buds entertained. There’s a ‘Dark ’n’ Stormy’, (rum, ginger beer or ale with a wedge of lime) or an ‘Old-Fashioned’ (angostura bitters, orange

and a sugar cube).

Whatever takes your fancy, it looks like rum is set for a resurgence. It’s good to know a business based in Deeside is set to play a such an inspired part in Scotland’s drinks industry.

Local business.

Fully insured.

All trades available.

Timed appointments.

Ltd

Free estimates.

Prompt emergency repairs.

Property maintenance & development

Tel. 01224 315558 or 07789 555296 or email umax@live.co.uk Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

21

Geneva Motor Show 2016 The Geneva Motor Show is one of the biggest events on the automotive calendar, and is an opportunity for the largest car manufacturers in the world to showcase their new models and technology. With hundreds of stands spread across vast halls, the motor show at Geneva gives a real insight into the direction that the motor industry is heading.

Bugatti Chiron Everyone knows of the legendary Bugatti Veyron, the W16-powered, 250mph hypercar, which has spent 11 years at the top of the motoring chain. It’s time, however, for a new model. Enter the Chiron. Named after Bugatti’s most successful driver, Louis Chiron, this latest model is reported to produce more than 1,400bhp and is capable of 288mph. The Chiron has been completely redesigned, but does contain elements of the Veyron. Likely to be the car of the event, the Chiron should completely rewrite the rule book in terms of speed and acceleration.

G-DEC - George Crichton

Professional Painter & Decorator Interior & Exterior Quality Products and Workmanship

gdecpainter@gmail.com Tel : 01224 360739 Mob : 07921 136 467

Wallpaper Hanging Lining/Emulsion Hand Taping 20 years Experience & NVQ Advanced Craft

Befriend a Child Charity Shop

1st Class Footcare

27 Holburn Street, AB11 6DJ, Aberdeen

one step ahead

Janine Henry BSc (Hons) MChS To donate goods or volunteer contact 01224 930173 or e-mail shop@befriendachild.org.uk

Mobile Podiatrist/Chiropodist HPC and State Registered

E: firstclassfootcare@hotmail.co.uk

Mobile: 07586 268 049

22

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

Renault Scenic Putting the humble Scenic beneath a fire-breathing Bugatti may seem a little odd, but the MPV’s importance can’t be understated. This size of vehicle has been waning in popularity of late, owing to the growth of the SUV and crossover in the family car market. The Scenic is hoping to fight back, bringing with it more radical styling and a design that will no doubt attract younger buyers back to the MPV.Jaguar F-Type SVR It may have a snarling cat on the bonnet, but this is no ordinary Jaguar. Set to be the company’s fastest production car, this latest Jaguar is the first to have been worked on by Jaguar Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operation department. Capable of 200mph, the SVR is faster and lighter than a standard F-Type – and is £20,000 more expensive, too. Sitting at £110,000, the SVR features a deployable rear spoiler and added aerodynamic pieces designed to make it as stable as possible at high speed.

Lamborghini Centenario This limited-edition Lamborghini is rumoured to have sold out already, no doubt thanks to its classically exuberant styling and 6.5-litre engine. Taking elements from the Aventador, the Centenario marks the centenary of the birth of the company’s founder, Ferrucio Lamborghini.

23

Alpine Vision Concept French manufacturer Alpine is hoping to make a grand return to the motoring world with its Vision Concept. A reveal in Monaco confirmed that the display vehicle is 80 per cent of the production car – and breaks with Alpine tradition by mounting the engine in the middle of the car rather than the rear.

If the concept is popular enough, it will no doubt propel Alpine into a full return to form.

Audi Q2 Audi’s Q-series of cars has been ever-popular, offering drivers a raised ride height while maintaining excellent on-road characteristics. The Q2 will be the smallest of Audi’s SUVs, with entry-level models coming with front-wheel drive. Of course, more expensive Q2s will come with Audi’s popular Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which should mean that despite its diminutive size the Q2 will still be a capable off-road vehicle.

Maserati Levante The Levante marks Maserati’s first entry into the flourishing SUV market. Heading up against the Bentley Bentayga and Jaguar F-Pace, it is designed to offer the luxurious environment usually

Animal Blessing Service

Vincent HenegHan WealtH ManageMent consultant

Craigiebuckler Church Hall Springfield Road Aberdeen on 19 June 2016 at 3 pm All animals with their human companions welcome For more details contact Myrna at forrester.m1@ sky.com 24

A wealth of expertise on your doorstep i provide an experienced wealth management service and offer specialist advice in a wide range of areas including: .investment

planning .Retirement Planning planning

.inheritance tax

For further details contact Vincent Heneghan on:

mob: 07710 471 815 tel: 01224 202409

Email: vincent.heneghan@sjpp.co.uk Website: www.sjpp.co.uk/vincentheneghan

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

associated with a Maserati, but on a much bigger scale. Due to be available with a V8, V6 or one of three diesels, the Levante should be all things to all people.

Aston Martin DB11 The DB11 is a big car for Aston Martin. It comes to replace the popular - but ageing - DB9 which has been in production for 12 years now. Due to go on sale at the end of this year, the DB11 will feature a 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 engine producing 600bhp.

Designed to mark the start of a new age of Aston supercars, it shows the beginning of a change in the manufacturer’s model line-up – with many of the company’s older models due to be replaced soon as well.

Volvo V90 The V90 joins the 90 Series range, with both estate and saloon built on Volvo’s ‘Scalable Platform Architecture’. Available with petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid set-ups, there’s also the choice of an all-wheel-drive mode, too. With Volvo’s history of producing reliable and good looking estate cars, we expect this one to be popular with families when it goes on sale later this year.

Skoda Vision S The Vision S concept marks the company’s first attempt at making a large SUV with four-wheel drive. Utilising a hybrid layout, the concept features striking design elements that give a small insight into what Skoda is planning to do in the future.

Aberdeen’s bathroom specialist i provide my own team of tradesmen and our quality workmanship ensures a premium standard is always delivered.

For further information on your plumbing and heating needs call john s thomson

tel: 01224 943090 mob: 07825 917 605 email: j.s.t1985@hotmail.com Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

25

Japan

Iconic Cherry Blossom

W

hen winter draws to a close, the whole of Japan looks forward to the arrival of the cherry blossom. Every night on the news, the weather is followed by the ‘cherry blossom forecast’, carefully mapping out its progress. It all begins in January in the subtropical island of Okinawa down south, reaching Tokyo around the end of March and finally Hokkaido, the northern island, in May. Should you miss the blossom on the plain in Honshu, just head for the delightful mountain resorts of Hakone or Takayama when it comes out a little later.

Legend has it that Hanami, or ‘flower viewing’, began around the 8th-9th centuries when Emperor Saga and his Court in Kyoto made offerings to the spirits dwelling in the trees while celebrating the occasion with sake, the traditional rice wine. Later the custom extended to the warrior class of the Samurai and eventually the common people followed suit.

So to this day, at Hanami time, everyone heads for gardens and parks, castle grounds, temples and shrines to gaze in wonder and party under the cherry trees. Children joyfully

26

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

27

celebrate the first day of school after the holidays and some companies pay an employee to sit in the park all day and reserve the best viewing spot for the after work party. Hanami can be enjoyed throughout the day or at night when paper lanterns hanging in the trees add a magical glow to the blossom. There is music and laughter and feasting on all sorts of blossom-flavoured snacks, sweets, dumplings, Kit Kats, crisps or beer, and you can even try a suitably flavoured Starbucks latte. Only the older folks might prefer a quiet time under a tree in their own courtyard, while for a few, wisteria and plum blossom are just as attractive.

But beauty aside, what is so special about blossom?

For the Japanese, it reflects the two main religions on their islands, the traditional Shinto based on the worship of spirits in the natural world and Buddhism, which alongside respect for nature reminds followers that nothing in this world can last for ever. Life is short, we’re only passing through just like the beautiful cherry blossom which lasts no more than a couple of weeks. For many Japanese, the blossom is at its most inspiring when it starts to fall like ‘pink snow’ and carpet the land. The parties die down and it’s a time to reflect on life, past, present and future.

As for the cherry trees, they are as iconic as Mount Fuji, with over 200 varieties producing all sorts of blooms, from the most delicate flowers to frothy clouds of colour in every shade of red and pink though for many, white, the rarest of all, is the favourite. Every public building and garden has its cherry trees but for those who can manage it, there are top viewing spots listed on the news, such as Shinjuku Gyoen, one of Tokyo’s many parks, claiming over 1,000 cherry trees, the Five Lake District, the Botanical Gardens in Kanazawa and in Miharu, the 1,000 year old aptly named ‘Waterfall Cherry Tree’ with its glorious show spanning some 20 metres around.

Add a geisha in a traditional kimono and you have the essence of Japan, at its most endearing when the cherry trees are in full bloom.

the oven valet oven cleaners

service with a sparkle*

™

SYNTHETIC GRASS

So good, even nature can’t tell the difference?

• Child & pet friendly surface • Virtually no maintenance • Fully guaranteed

I can’t believe it’s not real grass!

• Professional installation • Colourfast - UV stable • Great looking grass 365 days a year • EaziLawn is manufactured UK manufactured in Europe

You won’t find me here!

Call 0870 161 4501 for a FREE no obligation quotation

www.eazilawn.co.uk www.eazilawn.co.uk

EaziLawn™, Suitetm G5, Faraday Centre, 34 Faraday Street, Dundee DD2 3QQ EaziLawn e: Business info@eazilawn.co.uk The Schooner House, 2 Guild St Aberdeen AB11 6NE

28

01330 823079 07920 483 233

www.theovenvalet.com info@theovenvalet.com

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

SENSITY LIGHT REACTIVE LENSES

Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

29

Strength is the key

A

s an older adult at time we accept 'wear and tear' on the body. But does that really mean we have to accept a reduction in function? The first component of fitness is strength. Strength may be reduced at the joint if the joint is not used, as is possible if arthritis is in a joint. Whatever the reason that strength is reduced, there is first a lack of function in the muscle. Before you think of joining a gym, think of how to get the muscle moving correctly again, before you start to strengthen.

Let me explain, your Piriformis muscle is situated at your hip. It goes from the sacrum to the top of the femur (Greater trochanter) through the sciatic foremen. It laterally rotates the hip, (turns the leg outward) abducts the thigh when flexed (moves a bent knee to the outside) and holds head of the femur in the hip socket. This muscle is used when performing the breast stroke legs in swimming, or kicking a football from the inside of the foot. If this is not the kind of movement you make regularly, the muscle becomes less functioning. If it doesn't function other muscle take over its job and can cause strain, particularly in the lower back. Lower back pain in older adults is common. As this muscle protects the sciatic nerve, it can also become tight around the nerve.

Before we strengthen the muscle we need to make it more functional first and then strengthen it.

As older adults we have a movement pattern that we stick to because it's familiar and feels normal.

When we start to get discomfort we blame the surroundings first, the chair, the mattress, the car.

But when we go deeper, it's actually our

30

movement pattern that's to blame and because we have held joints in a certain way for so long, discomfort starts from dysfunction of the muscle. So if you have had a lower back pain for a while, you may have decided that as discomfort is always felt in the morning, your blaming the mattress. I'm suggesting that the muscle doesn't function as well as it should, the night rest has allowed the muscle to relax and has insufficient movement and strength to support your morning activity.

How do I know this?

Experience and a simple test.

Can you sit with the soles of your feet together?

How far are the knees off the floor? If it's more than the span of one hand, or if the height of the knees is inconsistent between the two knees, the piriformis muscle needs to be released first, then strengthened.

The Piriformis is what's known as a local mobiliser. It's close to the bone, holds the femur in the hip socket and mobilises the leg in a small way. Primarily it's function is to stabilise the joint. As its movement is a small one, it tends not be utilised so much. If it's not used, it stops functioning and other muscle take over the strain. This is when the lower back muscle start to tell you, something is wrong and you get lower back pain or discomfort. The Piriformis might get tight, or go into spasm.

By doing a simple muscle release technique used in the I Move Freely class on a Monday morning the Piriformis muscle will move, be strengthened, and you receive more power in your movements AND reduce the strain in the lower back.

When the Piriformis works, the lower back muscle have less strain on them. This means

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

they can do their job better, because they are not trying to do two jobs at once.

This can eliminate the discomfort or pain you had when you woke up. The pain or discomfort from muscle strain can be removed completely, depending on the cause, and if you know what to do. The I Move Freely class for older adult fitness is a simple way of keeping everything functioning correctly for great daily movement and power in your muscles for life's activity.

Whether you are new to exercise, returning to exercise after a break, have health issues such as arthritis, the I Mover Freely class is a great place to start. If you feel you want more 1-­2­-1 advice, ​get in touch. I can help you understand your own body and give you tools to keep it freely moving for a great quality of life.

movement & strength specialist

prime mover pathway I Move Freely

Pilates

Strength & Balance

Ultimate U

pilates and So much moRE SquaSh club monday: pilatES 10:00am & 6:00pm

SquaSh club i movE FREEly monday 11:00am

cultS chuRch cEntRE thuRSday: aERobicS 10:00am

Sign up to FREE Ebook and REcEivE moRE inFoRmation. www.pRimEmovERpathway.co.uk Join uS on FacEbook pRimE movER pathway & ciRclE @ mannoFiEld.

LAST CHANCE EIGHTH Single Issue £30 Three Issue £85 Six Issues £144

01224 -949085

mail@gazettemagazines.com

Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

31

What’s On at HMT + Lemon Tree in June Wednesday, June 1: Scott Matthews, who has played a number of sell-out headline tours and has also toured with Foo Fighters, Snow Patrol and Robert Plant, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (standing), West North Street, doors 7pm. Tickets £18.70

Saturday, June 11: Aberdonian singer/songwriter Jo McCafferty has pulled together some “weel kent” faces from Aberdeen’s music scene to reimagine songs from throughout her career, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (seated), West North Street, doors 7.30pm. Tickets £8.80

Monday, June 20 – 25: Kick off your Sunday shows and cut loose with the explosive rock n’ roll musical sensation Footloose, in His Majesty’s Theatre, at 7.30pm with 2pm Thursday matinee and 2.30pm Saturday matinee. Tickets £36.50 - £17.50

Thursday, June 2 - 11: Aberdeen’s much-loved comedy team, the Flying Pigs, are back with their brand new show packed with their distinctive North-east flavour, Dreich Encounter, in His Majesty’s Theatre, at 7.30pm Tues – Fri and 5pm & 8pm Saturday. Tickets £28.50 - £20.50

Monday, June 13 – 18: The nation’s favourite Strictly Come Dancing stars Vincent & Flavia are back with their ultimate farewell show, The Last Tango, in His Majesty’s Theatre, at 7.30pm with 2pm Thursday matinee and 2.30pm Sat matinee. Tickets £40.50 - £19.50

Saturday, June 4: The Bloody Marys are back in town and in mood to be ignored. Aberdeen’s first, favourite and funniest tribute band with their show, Monster of Frock, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (standing), West North Street, Aberdeen, doors 8pm.

Tickets £16.50

Thursday, June 16 – 17: Aberdeen Performing Arts’ Intermediate Youth Theatre presents It’s My Party and I’ll Cry if I Want To – a coming of age story about growing up and realizing that everything has changed forever, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, at 7pm.

Tickets £9.90

Thursday, June 23 - 24: Aberdeen Performing Arts’ Senior Youth Theatre presents Escape Speed, a rehearsed reading which follows the fate of Emma, a tough teen with a secret, and her bumbling, gangheavy classmate Kai, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, at 7pm. Tickets £5.50

Thursday, June 9: Will Millard brings his humour and genuine sense of wonderment to this brand new audio/visual supported solo show The Last Hunters: Adventures of the South Seas, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, at 7pm.

Tickets £15.40

Monday, June 20: Join US alt-rock legends Mercury Rev as they showcase their new album and previous material. With support from Warhausft. Maarten from Balthazar, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (standing), West North Street, doors 7pm. Tickets £24.75

Thursday, June 23: Go big or go home with music from PAWS, the musical brilliance of Phillip, Josh and Ryan. With support from Wendell Borton and The Spook School, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (standing), West North Street, doors 8pm.

Tickets £7.70 Wednesday, June 29 – Saturday, July 2: After a three-year break, Scott School of Dancing are returning to HMT with dance show Feel Evolve Transform, featuring musical theatre company Leading Lights, in His Majesty’s Theatre, at 7pm. Tickets £18 - £26

Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel : 01224 641122 Holiday Let : Charming, detached, two bedroom cottage in Drumoak on Deeside. Perfect for overseas visitors... Family visits ...

Check availability below http://www.cottages.com/cottages/thornton-cottage-sppr 32

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

Local Stockists:- Auchenblae Stores & Laurencekirk Post Office. Castleton Farm Shop, Fordoun.

Costcutters, Victoria Street, Dyce. Cults Stores - Keystores, Kirk Brae, Cults.

L & A Stores, Summerhill Court, Aberdeen. Mitchells Dairy, Inverurie.

Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

33

Spruce up your home office Dodgy desk, awkward chair or overflowing shelves? It’s time to give your home office a facelift, says Katherine Sorrell We all need some sort of working space at home, whether it’s a corner of the kitchen that’s used for occasional catching up with emails or a high-spec office with all the bells and whistles necessary for full-time self-employment. But is yours really working hard for you? Just a few

small improvements will go a long way in making your workspace more comfortable, functional and attractive.

It may sound obvious, but a good place to start is with a clear out and a tidy up.

Chances are, you don’t really need all that stuff you’ve accumulated. Take the time to go through your old paperwork, stationery, books and other bits and pieces; give it away, recycle it, file it away somewhere well out of the way or put it in the bin, as appropriate, and you’re bound to create a great deal of extra space. Then, pay attention to any messy and inconvenient cabling, and sort it out with extension leads, cable clips or even by asking an electrician to add an extra double plug socket in a handy place. Doesn’t that feel better already?

THISTLE

WINDOW BLINDS

FREE Quotation and Fitting Specialists in Conservatory Blinds

Wood Venetians .

.

Verticals

Romans

New Intu Blinds

.

.

. Velux

. Rollers Pleated

01224 745759 07941 704 506 Thistle Window & Blinds will guarantee to beat any like for like quote!

Contact: Nicol Meldrum 30 Coull Green, Kingswells, Aberdeen AB15 8TR nicol.meldrum@thistlewindowblinds.com www.thistlewindowblinds.com

34

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

CUMMING FIRE & SECURITY Ltd

07817-749943

Tel: Email cfs.ltd@dial.pipex.com FREE ADVICE & QUOTATIONS EVENING SURVEYS AVAILABLE Intruder Alarm Systems, Wired or Wireless Fire Alarm Systems, Wired or Wireless Fire Extinguishers & Blankets Electrical Work - All Types Smoke & Heat Alarms Portable Appliance Testing CCTV & Door Entry Systems Window & Door Lock Replacement.

Safes and Cabinets Safety Signs & Equipment

For Peace of Mind At Work or Home - Call Us Now

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

Next: your desk. If you are still running out of room, you could consider adding a small worktop to one side of your existing desk

(an L-shaped workspace can be very ergonomic).

Alternatively, it’s likely that you could dramatically improve your organisation with a new desk that incorporates drawers, cubby holes, shelves or whatever other type of storage you most need. If you are able to use nearby walls, try to lift as much as possible off the surface of your desk by introducing wall-mounted storage such as shelves, pin boards, peg boards (very trendy), hanging racks and the like.

Anything that stacks is bound to be useful, too. Before you know it, you’ll be able to see your laptop once again.

No shopping.

No peeling.

No chopping.

No pots and pans.

Isn’t that a no brainer?

Chicken & Vegetable Casserole £2.95 Choose from over 300 tasty recipes.

Order what you want. No-contract.

No-commitment. Delivered free.

For your FREE brochure

01358 725 200 wiltshirefarmfoods.com

Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

35

Thinking along these lines, if space isn’t the problem, but boring looks are, then why not get out the paintbrush and give everything a facelift? Stick to neutrals if you wish (they are undeniably good for concentration) but go for bold colours if they make you happy. Blackboard paint is a great option for sections of walls where you might want to chalk up some notes;

Most of us never have quite enough storage, and that probably goes for home offices more than any other space in the house. If you’re looking to buy more storage, you may be happy with a conventional filing cabinet and/ or bookcase, but don’t be afraid to look beyond the usual office suppliers: vintage and industrial pieces can really come into their own here, adding an element of unexpected style that will really brighten up your work time. Add boxes, baskets, trolleys, racks and desktop accessories in colours and textures that suit your space and emphasise your personal style.

aberdeen area tree services landscaping garden design, fencing: supply, install, repair decking + construction removed, cut, pruned or replace demolition & removal of sheds/garages | pest control - wasps, rabbits, pigeons + roe deer | all services available for commercial + domestic

call george williams for excellent service and rates in aberdeen area :

m-07803 697 580 | t-01224 312611 |184 broomhill road, aberdeen (est 1988)

36

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

it comes in a range of colours (not just black) and can even be used on the top of a desk or for cupboard fronts. And there’s also nothing to stop you replacing a boring window treatment with pretty curtains or blinds, or adding an eye-catching rug, a display of collectibles or a dramatic painting or framed photograph.

attention to the details and add accessories to brighten up your life, from a goodlooking waste bin to a house plant, some colourful wall art or a scented candle. Let’s face it, the more you enjoy being at work, the more productive you’ll be.

A comfortable chair is a must for any working area, and if you are likely to spend hours in it then an adjustable office chair on castors is the best choice. If yours is dull or ugly, it might be possible to either re-upholster it or make a loose cover; at worst, you could hang a length of fabric over the back and add an attractive cushion. Another essential is a good desk light – beyond being bright and adjustable, simply choose one that you love the look of. There’s an enormous choice out there, at prices to suit every budget. Finally, pay

Photograph Descriptions and stockists A good desk is essential. The new Phineas desk is made from oak and has two cubby holes, drawers, and a cut-out for cables. It costs £545 from Loaf, tel 0845 468 0698; www.loaf.com.

Personalise your workspace (and provide a handy magnetic storage wall, too) with this Cockatiel printed magnetic wallpaper, £64.50, Sisters Guild; www.sistersguild.co.uk.

Copper storage baskets to bring some glamour.

These cost £35, from MiaFleur, tel 0116 2986393; www.miafleur.com.

interior / exterior /plastering/water damage fixed price quotations - no VAT 19 Craigiebuckler Place

tel : 01224 - 316898 mob : 07711 120 217

Reduce your gas bills

Install one of our high efficiency boilers and help the environment at the same time.

Avoid expensive repair bills with our GOLDSTAR Plan • 24 hour emergency response • Annual boiler service Ask about our up to 8 year • Free energy advice warranty on new boilers

01224 42 14 14 enquiries@wrbgas.co.uk | www.wrbgas.co.uk Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

37

Sunday June 12:

Craigiebuckler Church, Springfield Road, will hold a community event to celebrate the 90th birthday of HM The Queen. It starts with a special Service of Thanksgiving at 11 am and is followed by an afternoon of entertainment and displays including: Kidgloves Puppets, the Bon Accord B Silver Band, Granite City Chorus, West End Dance Studio Majorettes and the Huntly Falconry Centre. Bring your own picnic. Food also available from burger and ice cream vans.

Entry free.

38

Get noticed first or last by grabbing our front and back page slots!

Why not phone/email/text to find out more or to just book one?

Our next deadline is 27 May for the June/July magazines to Kingswells and West End 2 Want something later then 27 June will get you in the July-Aug issues of West End 1 and the Deeside magazines .

Delay no further: call Sue on 01224 949085 or text 07813 964 875 or email mail@gazettemagazines.com

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085

e : mail@gazettemagazines.com

the one stop business shop ...

George Cormack Painter & Decorator T: 01224 827081 M: 07840 650 853

40yrs experience, free estimates, no job to small and no vat.

e:

gcormack10@hotmail.co.uk

Twelfth of a Page is £57 for three issues or £96 for six issues It holds a good deal of words big and small and even a wee picture.

Call Sue : 01224 949085 today!

Kut Loose Hair Design tel: 01224 647096

11 South Mount Street Rosemount Aberdeen AB25 2TN

Open Tuesday -Saturday 20% discount for new clients 30 years experience Present this advert to receive discount.

Compu-Care

Call Neil 07539-462-064 Laptop & PC upgrades/ repairs/internet Collect & return service New computers available Laptop and PC training available £20 per hour

Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

Tails & Trails Aberdeen

Contact Nicola on 07801966724 or nicolaburnett72@hotmail.com Dog walking & small animal pet sitting services for Central & West Aberdeen.

Flexible availability including daytime, evenings and weekends. Please get in touch to secure your slot. £8.00 per visit.

city & shire heating specialists Tel: 07494 177 132 Email: cityandshire@hotmail.com Paul and Kenny (20 yrs experience) offer the following services: • central heating installation • servicing • breakdown repairs • landlord safety checks • all domestic gas work & plumbing.

• registered with GAS safe.

39

Why use etyres? ✓ Free fitting at a time and place convenient to you ✓ We save you time and money ✓ All inclusive prices ✓ Nationwide coverage ✓ Stockists of all major brands

We also off er CAR BATT ERIES and PUNC TURE REPAIRS

✓ Car batteries, TPMS and puncture repairs

Car tyres • Puncture repairs • Winter tyres • 4x4 and runflat tyres • Caravan and motorhome tyres • Tyron safety bands • Van tyres • Batteries

SAVE

OUNT SC

*

DI

UP TO

S

E

I PROM

ALL BRANDS | ALL SIZES £25 OFF 4 TYRES | £10 OFF 2 OR 3 TYRES

*For full terms and conditions see website. E&OE.

Stockists of all major brands including:

Call the tyre experts today

01224 432 901