DG: Issue 23 Oct-Nov 2013

Issue 23

Oct-Nov 2013 Deeside Edition Free Publication

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Successfully introducing local people to local businesses

Deeside gazette thru the door : Exclusive to Banchory & Drumoak deadline : 20 Nov Dec-Jan Issue contact : Sue Simpson mob : 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net w : thegranitecitygazette.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/gazettemagazines

Ad-hoc contributions from : Jane Robinson - Sarah Davey - Debbie Singh-Bhatti - Carol Brown - Lee Bestall Advertising Sales : Sue Simpson :

01224 949085

Distribution - thanks to : Stuart - Ross - Natalia - Sue - Dillon - Owen Distributor wanted for no vacancies at present

A note from Sue… It’s always lovely to be appreciated.

Sometimes it can be just a smile, a phone call and sometimes a letter. Well I was lucky and received a lovely handwritten note congratulating me on the excellence of the Deeside gazette. Written by the daughter of an ex Provost I’ll take that as high praise indeed!

Please make sure you take advantage of having your say about the new and improved Scott Skinner Square, it’s important to have community input. There are some lovely little articles in this issue and a wee taster of what you can purchase as Chrsitmas Gifts from local crafters and shops. If you would like to feature in our next issue (last chance before Christmas) then send in your product shots with a brief description and price.

Are you a small trader, start-up business, soletrader and would like some support, help and encouragement? Then why not join The Hive, we meet once a month in Kincardine O’Neil.

We’ll be doing a feature next month about it but please give me a call if you’d like to know more.

Our next magazine will be the NovemberDecember issue and the deadline is 20 November.

So go and fill up your cuppa and enjoy this issue of the gazette and until the next time…

Sue Disclaimer : Whilst we’d be flattered if you would like to borrow something from the gazette be polite and ask first! Thank you. We 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. We thank you for taking the time to read the small print. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication.

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We’ll print your Christmas greetings to family and friends living locally or for your business contacts.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our family and friends The Smiths @ No 12 Cost: £10 per box Call Sue : 01224 949085

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Artists begin community engagement for revitalisation of Scott Skinner Square Artistic duo DUFI, made up of Alister MacInnes and Fin Macrae, are looking at ways to rejuvenate Banchory’s Scott Skinner Square and also create a new brand identity for the whole town.

DUFI have already set up their Open Design Studio on High Street . It is a working space for the artists, while they are in Banchory, and also an opportunity for people to come in, ask questions and have their say on the project and their vision for the town.

A new Facebook page has also been set up for the project, named “Bassline AB31” (www.facebook.com/BasslineBanchory) The Scott Skinner Square Refurbishment Project aims to revitalise an important public space in Banchory. The project is a partnership between Aberdeenshire Council, Woodend Barn and the Banchory community, with overall responsibility for the project sitting with the Banchory Town Centre Improvement

Group. To keep track of the project, check out the Woodend Barn blog: www.woodendbarn. com/bassline/ DUFI will work on their final design in October and at the end of the process DUFI will produce a detailed proposal for the redevelopment of Scott Skinner Square, including related designs for the wider town centre and surrounding area, and a new brand identity for Banchory.

Banchory has a lot to offer, for both the local community and visitors, and this is a fantastic opportunity for the town to make the most of its assets.

So make sure you have your say about how the new and improved Scott Skinner Square will look and feel for the future. So if you haven’t already grab the opportunity to get involved, and don’t grumble afterwards if you didn’t!

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BANCHORY GOLF CLUB

WINNERS

LADIES’ INVITATION DAY 12th September 2013

1st Prize 4 Ball at Castle Stuart

We had a very successful day with 80 ladies taking part in a greensomes competition. The sun shone for us and the golf was excellent (for most of us!) but after all it was a fun day and no handicaps went up nor down! We all enjoyed the company, shared a few laughs and had a lovely afternoon tea provided by ELM Catering at Banchory Golf Club.

2nd Prize Lunch at the Tornacoil Hotel

The lucky few who went home with the prizes which were most kindly donated by Technip, the Tornacoil Hotel, the Burnett Arms Hotel and Shell Subsea Projects were :-

Nearest the Pin at 7th hole

sponsored by Technip

Tricia Halliwell & Fenica Wolters-Sinke

Mel McCrory & Lesley Nicol

3rd Prize Lunch at the Burnett Arms Hotel June Wilson & Jenny Mackie

Nearest the Pin at 3rd hole Midge Miller Judith Carr

Nearest the Pin at 9th hole Pat Nile

Nearest the Pin at 12th hole Lesley Nicol

Nearest the Pin at 16th hole sponsored by Shell Subsea Projects Judith Carr

Longest Drive Silver at 15th hole Louise Smith Longest Drive Bronze at 6th hole Lesley Nicol

Christmas Bonanza Every Thursday from 03 October 19 December

Buy something bespoke and unique for Christmas this year

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Dee’s Teas Gift Vouchers

Dee’s Tea’s - 38a North Deeside Road, Kincardine O’Neil

Tel : 01339 884 202

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BANCHORY GOLF CLUB Banchory Golf Club has two types of membership – Full Golf and Social.

Currently there is a small waiting list for the former but applications are still being accepted.

Banchory Golf Club Ladies’ section is a thriving, vibrant group with around 180 lady members. During the summer season, competitions take place twice a week, Tuesdays and Thursdays, with the option for ladies who work full time to enter a competition on a Sunday.

We have a varied programme of golf including medal play, stableford and fun competitions.

We also have an annual outing to another club in the North East where we organise a bus for the ladies, have a fun round of golf and a social meal. We have all levels of golfers from complete beginners to very low handicappers! There is something for everyone! During the winter a weekly competition on Tuesday also runs, weather permitting. At the end of the season we have prize-giving events and dinners.

We also have a very active junior program (for both girls and boys) including coaching, practice and on course play.

We are affiliated to Club Golf and have lots of fun things for our juniors including outings to Gleneagles, Castle Stuart and a golf camp held here at Banchory Golf Club during the summer holidays.

Social events are also an important feature. For example, last winter our ladies’ social events included a pre season coffee morning, a talk from Cathleen

Stein (a Remedial Masseuse) and a fashion show among lots of other things.

For non-golfers the social membership allows full use of the clubhouse’s facilities. There is a very good social program of events throughout the calendar year, including breakfast buffets, lunch carveries, special theme nights (ie Chinese, Italian or Indian food) – provided by our very own in house caterers ELM Catering (along with a full range of meals and snacks on a daily basis); dinner dances; quiz nights; members’ private functions; Christmas and Easter parties for children and grandchildren of members. There are also bridge clubs – one on Wednesday afternoons for ladies and the other on Thursday evenings for both men and ladies. It is also a very comfortable haven if you just want to relax and enjoy a cuppa and read the newspapers!

We are hosting an OPEN DAY and CHRISTMAS FAYRE on Saturday 9th November 2013 from 10am to 2pm at Banchory Golf Club.

Please feel free to come and visit us. We pride ourselves on being a friendly, welcoming club.

For information about membership, playing or social, please telephone 01330 822365.

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World leading landscape photographer Colin Prior turns his lens on Aberdeenshire Internationally renowned landscape photographer Colin Prior will capture unique aspects of Aberdeenshire in a series of iconic images commissioned by Aberdeenshire Council’s Be Part of the Picture programme.

One of the UK’s most respected photographers, Colin is known the world over for his panoramic images which have captured the beauty of some of Scotland’s, and the world’s, wildest and most remote areas.

The acclaimed photographer is now turning his lens on Aberdeenshire, to create a suite of photographs showcasing the area as a place of natural beauty, unique heritage and home to high-quality industries, which will be used to boost Aberdeenshire’s profile around the world.

A master of meticulous planning and preparation, some of his most famous images have taken years to achieve.

In preparation for the final shoot in Aberdeenshire, Colin has been working with residents, drawing on their local knowledge to help identify the best locations and vantage points, travelling on foot, by air and by sea to assist his research.

Above and beyond his commission, Colin has also taken on the role as an Ambassador for Aberdeenshire and has already proven his enthusiasm for promoting the area by arranging to be photographed holding a Be Part of the Picture bag while on location recently at Concordia, in the Karakoram Mountains of Pakistan, with K2 mountain in the background.

Colin said: “I am really pleased to be working with the Be Part of the Picture programme to challenge perceptions of Aberdeenshire and showcase the features of the region which highlight its unique nature and set it apart from the surrounding areas and the rest of Scotland.

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“In producing a refreshed image bank, we are focusing not just on the stunning natural backdrops that Aberdeenshire is already known for, but also studying some of the area’s major and unique industries, using creativity to bring a new identity to Aberdeenshire’s most important assets.”

Aberdeenshire Provost, Jill Webster, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the assets which make Aberdeenshire so unique, through the eyes of a photographer who has produced some of the images which already make Scotland recognisable to an international audience.

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Education, Learning and Leisure Committee, Councillor Isobel Davidson, said: “While we have many landmarks recognised the world over, there are so many more features of life in Aberdeenshire which should be celebrated, and this is a fantastic way to do that.”

Be Part of the Picture is Aberdeenshire’s creative placemaking programme which is focussed on building local economies and community pride through the culture and creativity of Aberdeenshire.

The Colin Prior commission is the latest in a series of creative commissions to support the development of a new brand identity for Aberdeenshire and boost the area’s profile both locally and internationally.

Aberdeenshire-born and international textile designer Donna Wilson is already working on a new tartan design for Aberdeenshire, inspired by the rich palette of colours of Aberdeenshire’s diverse landscapes and communities.

For more information on the Be Part of the Picture programme, visit www.bepartofthepicture.com or Like us at www.facebook.com/BePartofthePicture.

To find out more about Colin Prior, go to: www.colinprior.co.uk

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

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Rhymetime sessions are held

in Banchory Library on Thursdays and Fridays and last for about 30 minutes. It is a great way for babies, toddlers, parents and carers to enjoy familiar and new rhymes and stories in an informal setting.

It is a good opportunity to meet other parents and is a fun time for everyone.

Sessions for babies are held on Thursdays at 10.30am on 17thOctober and fortnightly thereafter.

Toddlers’ sessions are held on Fridays at 10.00am on 11th October and thereafter fortnightly.

Saturday Storytimes - Banchory Library holds free storytimes for under 6s and their parents/carers. Forthcoming dates are 12th October and 26th October.

Fortnightly thereafter.

For information on dates and times, contact Banchory Library on 01330 823784 or email Banchory.library@aberdeenshire.gov.uk Or visit www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/libraries

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Christmas Craft Fair

Airyhall Community Centre

Saturday, 09 November 2013 Noon - 4pm

Free Entry

Cafe serving drinks & snacks

Buy directly from the crafter Photography, cards, textiles, jewellery, glass and more ...

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Hey Guys! Read this!

It could save your life Testicular cancer is relatively rare, yet it is the most common type of cancer to affect men aged between 15 and 44. Factors that can increase the risk include having a family history of the disease, and being born with undescended testicles. Rates of the disease are also five times higher in white men than in black men.

Thankfully, the outlook for men diagnosed with testicular cancer is one of the best for all types of cancer. Over 95% of cases of men with early stage testicular cancer will be completely cured. Even cases where the cancer has spread outside the testicles have an 80% chance of being cured.

As with other cancers, early detection improves your prognosis and can reduce the amount of treatment necessary.

The most common symptom to look out for is a painless lump or swelling in a testicle. Read how to examine yourself below, but be aware that fewer than 4 in 100 testicular lumps are cancerous.

Other symptoms may include a dull ache or a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.

Sometimes, testicular cancer can spread to the lymph glands at the back of the abdomen, which can cause backache. Lumps can also form in the lymph glands around the neck and collarbone.

Testicular cancer can spread to the lymph nodes in the centre of the chest. This leads to swelling, a cough and difficulty in breathing or swallowing. The cancer cells may also spread to the lungs themselves causing breathlessness, but they do not usually affect other organs.

Treatment of testicular cancer involves surgically removing the affected testicle. This should not affect fertility or the ability to have sex, and a false testicle can be put in place so that the scrotum will have a normal appearance. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy or additional surgery may also be required, depending on the type and spread of the disease.

How to Examine Yourself You should check your testicles regularly – once a month is a good interval. The best time to do this is after a warm bath or shower when your scrotal skin will be relaxed.

Hold the scrotum in the palms of your hands and use your fingers and thumb to gently feel each testicle. Look out for any lumps or swellings, or an increase in size or weight. (You should feel a soft tube at the back of each testicle – this is normal).

It is rare to develop cancer in both testicles at the same time, so you can compare one with the other to see what is normal.

If you notice anything unusual, contact your GP as soon as possible.

By Alex Brown

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The Arlene Doug Sound is an Aberdeen based duo band which formed in 2012.

The music is “party type” entertainment with songs from the 50’s right through to present time, all mixed in with Country, standards, pop etc. They also perform traditional Scottish dances like the Gay Gordons, Strip the Willow etc.

Arlene only found her passion for music five years ago when she joined a local music school and has progressed to Grade 7 qualifications with the London College of Music. She has enjoyed some success in X Factor making it through to the final at the Glasgow SECC in front of the judges and an audience of 5000! Doug on the other hand has been around music “forever” (his words) playing with a variety of bands throughout the North East of Scotland, more recently with his two sons and female vocalist.

Since forming the Duo they have enjoyed an impressive diary of gigs. Playing at social clubs, golf clubs, private functions (birthday parties, golden weddings etc) and outdoor events like fete’s and family fun days. You might have seen them at the 50+ Festival in the Duthie Park last month!

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The duo also find time to voluntarily perform at nursing homes, charity events and Churches.

If you have an event that requires entertainment then give The Arlene Doug Sound a call, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Phone: 07731 461 222

The small band with the big sound. Sounds from the 50’s to present including traditional Scottish music using Tyros keyboards. contact phone: 07731 461 222 email: arlenedougsound1@btinternet.com website: www.arlenedougsound.com (best accessed via google)

LEARN ITALIAN Why not join an Italian Class in Cults - Aberdeen? You can choose day or evening classes: Beginner to Advanced level.

The following classes are scheduled at present: Tuesday 9.30 – 11.30 am Advanced Tuesday 2.00 – 4.00 pm Intermediate Tuesday 7.30 – 9.30 pm Post - Intermediate Thursday 9.30 – 11.30 am Post - Intermediate Thursday 7.30 – 9.30 pm Post - Beginners Friday 9.30 – 11.30 am Beginners (starts 17th Jan 2014) new Friday 2.00 – 4.00 pm Post - Beginners Individual lessons are also available.

For further info, please contact Enrica Conti: Tel: 07786 827714 Email: enrica.conti@tiscali.co.uk

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Caramel Apple Pie please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

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Serves 6-8 Preheat the oven to 170ËšC. Ingredients For the pastry 250g plain flour 125g butter, cubed Pinch of salt 3-4 tablespoons cold water For the filling 50g caster sugar 50g dark muscavado sugar 50g butter 25ml water 700g Bramley apples, peeled, cored and sliced Juice and zest of 1 lemon 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon Caster sugar for sprinkling 25cm pie dish Method To make the pastry sift the flour and salt into a bowl. Rub the butter into the flour using your fingertips until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Pour in the cold water and mix with a roundbladed knife until it all starts to come together. Knead the pastry a little until it forms a ball. The less you handle it the more short and crumbly it will be. Then wrap in clingfilm and rest it in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Take about two thirds of the pastry and roll it out onto a floured surface into a circle big enough to line the pie dish. Gently press the pastry into the pie dish and trim off any excess. Wrap it up again and put back in the fridge while the apples are prepared.

Peel, core and slice the apples no thinner than 0.5cm. Squeeze the lemon over them and grate in the zest. Sprinkle with the cinnamon.

To make the caramel sauce melt the butter in a large pan, then add the flour and cook gently for one minute. Add both sugars and the water then bring to the boil and simmer for a few minutes. Add the apple slices and stir to coat them with the caramel. Cook gently for a few more minutes until the apples begin to soften. Allow to cool, and then place them into the lined pie dish.

Roll out the remaining pastry and cut it into 10 or 12 strips as long as the pie dish. Use a pastry brush to brush a little water around the edges of the tart so the lattice top will stick. Weave the lattice on top, securing the edges. Then trim off the excess pastry. Sprinkle the pie generously with caster sugar, then bake for 30minutes. Serve with custard or good quality ice-cream.

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Fly High In The Autumn Sky Wouldn’t it be wonderful to get a birds-eye view of autumn’s fabulous colours? Well that’s exactly what you get when you take a hot air balloon flight. Here’s Susan Brookes’ description of her recent trip: I joined a group of excited passengers at the launch point and listened to the pilot’s safety briefing. Behind him, the balloon’s envelope was being filled with air using an enormous fan. The pilot judged our weights and sizes and told us all where to stand ready for boarding. Once in position, we watched with awe as the material became more and more inflated.

Men rushed about manoeuvring the 100ft long nylon material to hasten filling. When the shout to board came, we moved rapidly to clamber into the then vertical basket. The balloon was unsecured and we began to lift off. Rising high into the sky, we waved to the gathered well wishers who quickly became just dots in the distance. As we headed to heights of up to 3000 feet, we were treated to a bird’s eye view of the countryside below. The whole landscape stretched before us: fields, trees, livestock in the fields, streams and lakes. It was a beautiful sight.

The huge balloon moved silently across the sky. The calm only interrupted by the passengers’ conversation and the periodic blast of the burners injecting the spell-binding fire into the belly of the balloon. The temperature was surprisingly similar to that at ground level, but with the added bonus of the glow from the flame.

Our lovely pilot cheerfully answered all our questions, pointed out landmarks, and told us about the skill of ballooning. Satellite navigation systems are installed in the balloons, but pilots also take maps in case equipment fails. Travel is so gentle because the balloon is moving at the same speed as the wind, and even the most apprehensive passenger

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soon relaxed and admired the views.

When it was time for our flight to end, the pilot descended slowly. I had expected a jerky landing, but the contact of the basket with the ground slowed the progress of the balloon and brought it to a halt quite gently, within a couple of bounces. The basket slowly tilted on its side as it came to rest in a field and the balloon began to deflate in the breeze. We found ourselves lying on our backs, rather like wine bottles in a rack, laughing at the fun of it all.

For safety reasons, hot air ballooning can only take place when there are suitable weather conditions. Most in our group had waited a while before we finally got the opportunity to take to the skies, but we all agreed the wait for such a thrilling experience had been worthwhile and we’d love to do it again.

If you would like to book a balloon flight make sure you use an accredited member of the British Association of Balloon Operators (BABO) www.babo.org.uk Alba Ballooning Ltd, 52.4 Miles, 01875 830709

By Susan Brookes-Morris www.albaballooning.co.uk Perth & Kinrosshire : We meet you at the Kinross Moto Service Station just off Junction 6 on the M90, Kinross. We generally launch at either Balado near Kinross if the wind has a southerly component, else Bridge of Earn (just south of Perth) if it has a northerly component.

Loch Leven from Milnathort/Kinross - We normally get treated to excellent views over Loch Leven, Kinross or perhaps Perth, and the beautiful Ochil and Lomond Hills. With an Easterly wind from Bridge of Earn, we may fly down Strathearn towards Dunning and Auchterarder near Gleneagles; or from Balado, towards Crook of Devon and Dollar in Clackmannanshire.

With a Westerly from Balado, we will fly over Milnathort/Kinross towards Auchtermuchty, Falkland and Cupar. With a Southerly from Balado, or a Northerly from Bridge of Earn, we will generally cross over the dramatic Ochil hills.

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For Him

For HER

Primus Flasks from £16.99-£25.99 buy at Outthere Activewear

Ladies, Keen, Bryce waterproof walking shoe (£109.99) buy at Outthere Activewear

victorinox, Huntsman £34.99 buy at Outthere Activewear

Angel Necklace created using a crystal encrusted clay bead www.handmadeaberdeenshire.co.uk

Meindl Toronto Gtx (£149.99) buy at Outthere Activewear

Haglofs, Swook hooded Fleece (Ladies) £99.99 buy at Outthere Activewear

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Pearls & Flowers Phone Covers £9.50 www.facebook.com/ joansgems1 Mountain Hardware, Monkey man grid jacket £129.99 buy at Outthere Activewear Hand Decorated Picture Frame using upcycled comic books www.handmadeaberdeenshire.co.uk

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New Baby, Birthday (Kids, Male & Female), Anniversary, Thank you, Christmas Cards - £2 per card or 3 for £5

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For KIDS

dolls, beds and handmade book is £40 email mel.lamont@yahoo.co.uk Childs Penny Purse - £8.00 available from: Mountain Daisy / 100% Handmade Aberdeenshire

stmas Guide

Blinged Trainers Kids £25 Adult £28 www.facebook.com/joansgems1 www.facebook.com/ joansgems1 Blinged Hair Bow Clips £5

Mini Blinged Converse & Uggs £5 www.facebook.com/joansgems1

For HOME

Personalised Wine & champagne glasses £12 www.facebook. com/joansgems1

Tooth Fairy Doors £3 each, name plaques £5 each, Mr & Mrs Home plaque £10 and Christmas plaque £5 Call: 01569 731730 or facebook/ craftydafty

Kozi Kids Oxford jacket £44.99 buy at Outthere Activewear

Handmade cushions by The Bell and the Bee for sale at Dee’s Tea’s, North Deeside Road, Kincardine O’neil. Prices range from £25 to £28

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Textures for interiors

The way a space feels is just as important as the way it looks.

Interiors expert Katherine Sorrell reveals how an imaginative use of different surfaces can make an impact in your home.

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C

olours and patterns may be the first things you notice when you walk into a room, but spend any time in it and the textures become increasingly important. Not only is the right surface in the right area a functional necessity, but an appreciation of texture also enables us to relate to our surroundings in a direct and sensual way, making us feel comfortably and securely at home. Textures, in short, bring a room to life and make a house a home.

Underpinning every design scheme, textures relate to just about every aspect of a room, from size and lighting to colour schemes and style. Consider this aspect of room design as layering one texture with another (floor, walls, upholstery and window treatments are the basics), then adding touches of one or two more (cushions, lamps, vases, rugs and so on). At first the concept may sound challenging, but it will soon come entirely naturally.

Start with key areas – upholstery or loose covers in a fabric that’s neither so shiny and slippery that you slide off it the moment you sit down, nor so rough that it’s uncomfortable and snags instantly. Curtains that draw easily, worktops that are tough and durable, floorboards that can be cleaned easily. If you wanted to bring out the cosiness of a small bedroom, say, you could combine a fluffy rug, matt-painted walls, velvet curtains and chintzy quilts.

Or, to emphasise a bright and airy living room, the main features might be varnished floorboards, glossy white woodwork, sheer curtains and glass or chrome lamp bases.

The aim is to achieve pleasing contrasts rather than clashes, so avoid too many unusual, eye-catching textures in one space.

Texture has an important part to play in the overall style of a room. Modern rooms tend to be feature harder, shinier surfaces, whereas a vintage or ethnic look is more rustic and varied in texture. You please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

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only have to think of the contrast between a contemporary room that features lots of stainless steel, chrome and mirror, with a more nostalgic room that contains quilts, knitting, embroidery and lace, to understand how important texture is in setting a scene.

Using understated colour schemes and simple patterns allows textures to speak for themselves. This is where a palette of neutrals comes to the fore – just think of the beautiful, natural hues of sisal, shell, stone or wicker. A dash of brightness may add a focal point, but the subtlety is in the surfaces themselves. Lastly, remember that good lighting shows off textures to their best advantage. Try to pick out interesting features and highlight them with uplighters, spotlights or angled lamps placed appropriately.

Once you have grasped the basic principles of using texture, you can incorporate all

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sorts of different elements: distressed or varnished wood, woven willow, worn stone, foxed mirror, distressed leather, fake fur, buttons, raffia and crochet, to name but a few. Textural possibilities are endless and, with just a little effort, you can achieve a look that is individual, intriguing and truly remarkable.

Picture on pg 19 shows : Distressed leather, a chunkyrib sisal rug and carved wood contrast beautifully with pretty floral wallpaper. Cottage Garden wallpaper, £44 per roll, Graham & Brown (www.grahambrown.com).

Picture on pg 18 : Woven wicker and the grain of a timber-effect floor make an elegant combination with soft upholstery. Classic collection laminate planks, £16.49 per square metre, Quick-Step (www.quick-step.co.uk).

Picture on pg 21 ; Layer throws, cushions and linens to create a sumptuous, comfortable place to sleep.

Mandalay double duvet, £139, Christy (08457 585252; www.christy-home.com).

Interior Design

Curtains & Blinds Room Schemes

Consultancy

Aberdeenshire Interior Designer Emma Clanfield has completed projects throughout Scotland including holiday cottages, city houses and country homes.

Visit www.emmaclanfield.com to view her portfolio.

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01464 821371 21

Aston Martin Rapide S

What is it?

Meet Aston Martin’s slightly awkwardlooking four-door saloon, but now with added adrenaline. Not that the standard car really needed an additional dose of go-go juice, but that’s never stopped the Gaydon massive from administering aid before. As part of a mid-life refresh the S has more power and even more refinement, and is the only model in the maker’s range that comes with two rear seats.

What’s under the bonnet?

An almighty lump, that’s what.

The ageing 6.0-litre V12 is still in situ – a last hurrah before AMG work their black magic under the hoods of Britain’s finest – but for now it

all-important five second barrier, but only by a tenth of a second. Top speed is a heady 190mph and with those sorts of figures fuel economy and emissions suffer. The former is a rather woeful 19.9mpg and CO2 is puffed out at a rate of 332g/km.

What’s the spec like?

In a word: glorious. The leather is soft, the carpets thick and the wood burnished. Several cows were sacrificed to coat most surfaces inside and the instruments are as beautiful as one of the finest Swiss watches.

Standard kit includes Bluetooth, sat nav, front and rear parking sensors (you need them, this thing is Ark Royal long), tracking device and a stunning 1000W Bang & Olufsen stereo. Some of the controls are a little small and fiddly, particularly the buttons in the centre console. Those rear seats have the option of TV screens (£2,495) and you can go mad on the other options too. Even the paint of our test car was an additional £3,495, but it’s worth it for the name alone: Skyfall Silver.

Any rivals?

has even more grunt. Power is up 80bhp to 550bhp and this helps the 60mph dash time tumble under that 22

A few. The biggest is the Porsche Panamera. An ugly car from some angles, stunning from others, it’s a super-sized sports car that’s superb to drive, especially in GTS form. The new Mercedes S-Class will be a potent rival too as will Audi’s luxurious A8. Even BMW’s 7 Series will have a sniff in this category, where price matters far less

than the badge that’s on the bonnet.

What’s it like to drive?

It’s not the most dynamic of Aston Martin’s range, that’s for sure, but this is a GT car to transport you and the family with ease. It’s relaxed and sedate when you want it to be, but can still pick up its skirt and go when you put your foot down. As the revs rise the butterflies in the exhaust containing the cacophony of noise open, releasing a guttural V12 groan.

The rear seats are comfy too, even for adults, but that said, headroom can be a little cramped.

Our Verdict The Aston Martin Rapide S is a stunning way to travel. It’s luxurious, looks sharp and is caked in cool. You can’t drive an Aston anywhere without gaining nods of appreciation and that very rarely happens in ostentatious equivalents from the likes of Ferrari or Lamborghini. There’s a certain respect for Aston Martin, and I like that. The Rapide S is a big car – and it feels it on the road – and that engine really is starting to feel dated in terms of economy, but the power is impressive and if you need those extra rear seats it’s worth considering… if you have the cash, of course.

The knowledge

Model: Aston Martin Rapide S Price: £165,580 (as tested) Engine: 6.0-litre, V12, petrol Power: 550bhp 620NM Max speed: 190mph 0-62mph: 4.9 seconds MPG: 19.9mpg (combined) Emissions: 332g/km CO2

By James Baggott, MD of BlackballMedia.co.uk

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

What’s On Banchory Banchory Farmers Market In Scott Skinner Square Saturday 19th October 2013, 09:00 - 13:00 Crathes Ghost Tours At Crathes Castle Thursday 24th October 2013, 19:00 - 20:00 Crathes Ghost Tours At Crathes Castle Thursday 24th October 2013, 21:00 - 22:00 Crathes Ghost Tours At Crathes Castle Friday 25th October 2013, 19:00 - 20:00 Crathes Ghost Tours At Crathes Castle Friday 25th October 2013, 21:00 - 22:00 Crathes Ghost Tours At Crathes Castle Saturday 26th October 2013, 19:00 - 20:00

Crathes Ghost Tours At Crathes Castle Saturday 26th October 2013, 21:00 - 22:00

Exclusively Highlands At Crathes Castle Sunday 3rd November 2013, 10:00 - 16:30

The Witchy Walk At Crathes Castle Sunday 27th October 2013, 11:00 - 12:30

Crathes Conversations with Fiona Butterfield At Crathes Castle Tuesday 12th November 2013, 14:00 - 16:00

The Witchy Walk At Crathes Castle Sunday 27th October 2013, 14:00 - 15:30 Crathes Conversations with Chris Wardle At Crathes Castle Tuesday 29th October 2013, 14:30 - 16:30 Crathes Ghost Tours At Crathes Castle Thursday 31st October 2013, 19:00 - 20:00 Crathes Ghost Tours At Crathes Castle Thursday 31st October 2013, 21:00 - 22:00 Exclusively Highlands At Crathes Castle Saturday 2nd November 2013, 10:00 - 16:30

Banchory Farmers Market In Scott Skinner Square Saturday 16th November 2013, 09:00 - 13:00 F.O.C.U.S (Festival of Crafts Unique to Scotland) At Banchory Town Hall Saturday 23rd November 2013 F.O.C.U.S (Festival of Crafts Unique to Scotland) At Banchory Town Hall Saturday 14th December 2013 Festive Farmers Market In Scott Skinner Square Saturday 21st December 2013, 09:00 - 13:00

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A good read

By Kath Bennett

No-Bot: The Robot with No Bottom – Sue Hendra Sue Hendra’s name will be instantly recognisable to anyone who has ever come across Barry, Norman or Keith. Like the heroes above, Bernard the Robot has an unusual problem. Can he find the solution? Can he find his bottom?

Barry, of course, is The Fish with Fingers; Norman is The Slug with the Silly Shell, and Keith is a Cat with a Magic Hat. If you haven’t met them, then you are in for a treat. Now Bernard is set to join them after an unfortunate incident, in which he leaves his bottom behind on a swing at the park. At first he doesn’t notice, but by the time he does his bottom is long gone – it has been a bird’s nest, a drum and who knows what else!

Sadly for Bernard his friends can’t help, and when they advise him to sit down, he has to remind them that he isn’t a robot any more – he is a no-bot. Will he find his bottom before it is too late?

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For Peace of Mind At Work or Home

My Animals and Other Family – Claire Balding In recent years, Claire Balding has slowly risen to ‘national treasure’ status. Not only does she know a great deal about sport, but she seems to have the knack of showing genuine interest in everything she presents and everyone she talks to. It all appears to be such good fun.

This same personality shines out from her autobiography, which covers her childhood, school, university, and the very beginnings of her broadcasting career.

As the title suggests, it is the animals who take centre stage in a world that revolves around horses and dogs. Each chapter is based on a particular character, from Candy the boxer dog who was her very first friend, to some of the greats of the equine world who passed through her father’s racing yard.

From the first, this feels like a very honest book. Balding does not paint over her faults – she shows them very clearly and is not afraid of being the butt of the joke. The sections which deal with her relationship with her younger brother Andrew are likely to feel very familiar to anyone who has ever coerced a younger sibling into doing something they really knew they should not: or indeed to anyone who has ever been that unfortunate younger sibling! Her school life is particularly well told too, as she documents the mistakes she made and the way in which she seized the second chance she was given.

The most memorable and touching aspect though, is the passion for the animals who give the book their structure. As well as telling the story of her early life, Balding offers a fascinating insight into the life of a racing yard, and the highs and lows of competitive horse racing when your father is a champion trainer.

Beautifully illustrated and always well written, this is an excellent read for anyone interested in sport, animals or even just people.

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Green Apple Award Presented to Banchory Academy Pupils won their award for work with Wash ‘N’ Squash - The Scolty Plastic Bottle Recycle Project, promoting plastic bottle recycling and raising awareness of the Project by giving presentations in primary schools in their community schools network.

The presentation tells the story of the journey a used plastic bottle takes from home/school or work, to the job that RECYCLE do, then on to the company who currently recycle the post consumer used plastic bottles into recycled products.

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The talk is followed by a game and a song and by asking pupils, parents and friends to sign a pledge to wash ’n’ squash and recycle their plastic bottles.

Car/window stickers were also produced to support the project.

Both award-winning projects were supported by staff from the Council’s Waste Management team.

If you know any company, council, community or project that deserves recognition for its environmental efforts, you can nominate them for a Green Apple Award by telephoning 01604 810507.

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

Records of the animals that cats have caught could be the only way for NESBReC to get information on mammals in certain areas.

For a record to be entered into the Mammal Atlas there needs to be four types of information: What? What species did you see?

Where? Where did you see it? (A grid reference would be particularly useful, but not essential) When? A note of the date you saw the animal Who? Who saw it?

Pictures can be sent to NESBReC even if you are not sure what the mammal is.

Small mammals are particularly under recorded and taking a note of what the cat catches and takes home is a very useful way of compiling the data.

A survey by the Mammal Society in 2001 found that the average household cat can catch up to 40 creatures a year. Mice tend to be the most popular mammal prey, followed by voles and shrews. Larger mammals, such as rabbits, weasels, stoats and squirrels were also recorded. Cats can roam up to 1km (over half a mile) away each night and have a home range of 28 hectares (70 acres).

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The North East Scotland Biological Records Centre (NESBReC) is compiling the Mammal Atlas for 2015 but is appealing for help from local walkers, pet owners and animal lovers.

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The information will help with the creation of a Mammal Atlas for Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, Moray and the Cairngorms National Park.

NESBReC is a partnership between Aberdeenshire Council, Aberdeen City Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, the University of Aberdeen, the RSPB and Forestry Commission Scotland.

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Cat owners throughout the north-east of Scotland are being urged to record the animal “presents” their beloved felines bring through the cat flap, to help a major project in recording the mammals of the north-east of Scotland.

Find out more about the Mammal Atlas at www.nesbrec.org.uk

Ab

Support the Mammal Atlas by recording what the cat dragged in

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Y EXP EARS ERIE NC

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Music Theatre Live Entertainment Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel : 01224 641122

October

Friday, October 18: An evening of traditional Scottish dancing with North-east ceilidh band, Clachan Yell in the Music Hall, Aberdeen at 8pm.

Friday, October 18: Witty, acerbic, magniloquent Frenchman and laughter-merchant Marcel Lucont: Gallic Symbol, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (seated), West North Street, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Friday, October 18: APA and DanceLive present Record of Events/Threshold: Joss Arnott Dance with a mesmerizing cast of alpha females choreographed to perfection, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 7pm.

Saturday, October 19: With his refreshingly laid-back and unconventional ethos on life, funnyman Tom Stade: Totally Rocks, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (seated), West North Street, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Saturday, October 19 APA and DanceLive present Corporalis, by the Retina Dance Company featuring their trademark physicality in a dynamic environment, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Sunday, October 20: Major players in the 60s British Pop Revolution, The Hollies hallmark vocal harmony has not wavered throughout 50 years of continuous touring, performing and recording, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen at 7.30pm.

Monday, October 21: Scottish Ensemble present Britain vs Germany, with music by Walton, Leopold Hurt, Martin Suckling and Brahms, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen at 7.30pm.

Tuesday, October 22: With one of the most fertile comic minds in Britain, funnyman Sean Lock brings his hilarious new stand-up show Purple Van Man to the Music Hall, Aberdeen at 8pm.

Tuesday, October 22: Theatre Ad Infinitum, in association with Luminate Festival and DanceLive, presents Translunar Paradise, a journey of life, death and enduring love, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Tuesday to Saturday, October 22 to 26: The Birmingham Stage Company presents Roald Dahl’s amazing story, James and the Giant Peach, the tale of a young boy, his revolting aunts and the most incredible adventure of a lifetime, in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7pm, with 2.30pm Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday matinees.

Tuesday to Saturday, October 22 to 30: As part of Aberdeen performing Arts and Glasgow Lunchtime Theatre’s A Play, a Pie and a Pint

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series, Lesley Hart’s Saint One, tells a tale of a Stonehaven chip shop, a local news man, a schoolgirl and a woman who thinks she’s Billy Connolly , in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 6pm Tuesday to Friday and 1pm on Saturday.

Wednesday, October 23: APA and DanceLive present an intimate musical performance seen through the eyes of a mother from the acclaimed Barrowland Ballet, Tiger, for ages 14+, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Wednesday, October 23: As part of DanceLive, Barrowland Ballet presents Tiger Tale, an intimate musical performance for ages six plus, as seen through the eyes of young daughter Poppy, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 2.30pm.

Thursday, October 24: APA and DanceLive present new work by emerging artists and locally-based choreographers and dancers, East Coast Moves: City Moves Dance Agency, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (seated), West North Street, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Friday, October 25: Pre-concert talk with awardwinning Russian pianist Denis Kozhukhin about his approach to performing one of the great piano concertos, before performing with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra in the Music Hall, Aberdeen at 6.30pm. Free to ticket holders.

Friday, October 25: With conductor Thomas Dausgaard and pianist Denis Kozhukhin, BBC Scottish Symphony present Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No2, with Sibelius’s Finlandia and Nielsen’s Symphony No4 (The Inextinguishable), in the Music Hall, Aberdeen at 7.30pm. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122 The orchestra invite the audience to stay on after their main concert performance to hear Denis Kozhukhin’s sublime rendition of Franz Liszt’s Bénédiction du Dieu dans la soliture. Free.

Friday, October 25: As part of the Sound festival and in association with the University of Aberdeen, one of the best formations devoted to classical Arab music, Al-Kindie Ensemble, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 8pm.

Saturday, October 26: Musicians, whether experienced amateurs or complete novices, are invited to take part in a free workshop and unique performance with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen at 10am to 1pm. Log on to www. bbc.co.uk/bbcsso or email SSOutreach@bbc. co.uk for more information.

Saturday, October 26: APA and DanceLive present a UK premiere by David Hughes Dance, Something Old, Something New . . . for fans of classical ballet, modern dance and storytelling, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Sunday, October 27: In Paul Merton’s Impro Chums, one of the UK’s best-loved performers and his world renowned impro pals Mike McShane, Lee Simpson, Richard Vranch and Suki Webster create a new an unique comedy show based entirely on suggestions from the audience, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen at 8pm.

Sunday, October 27: Playing all the A sides of their 1992 Hit Parade along with other landmark works, The Wedding Present, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (standing), West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7pm.

Tuesday, October 29: Scottish Dance Theatre presents Second Coming/Winter, Again, two contrasting and bold new works by internationally-acclaimed choreographers Victor Quijada from Montreal and Jo Strømgren from Norway in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Wednesday, October 30: German comedy ambassador Henning Wehn: Henning Knows Bestest, shares the fountain of his knowledge, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (seated), West North Street, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Wednesday, October 30: APA and DanceLive present Fabric: Duka Dance, a trio of dancers joined by a storyteller and musician telling the story of a woman’s life and tales hoarded on a length of cloth, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 7pm.

Thursday, October 31: Scottish Opera presents Mozart’s Don Giovanni, with Cardiff Singer of the World Audience Prize winner Jacques Imbrailo in the title role, alongside Péter Kálmán, Susan Gritton and beloved Scottish soprano Lisa Milne, in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Thursday, October 31: As part of the Sound festival, and in association with Jazz at the Blue Lamp, Wizniewski/Stevenson: New Focus, as fellow Scots saxophonist Konrad Wizniewski and pianist/arranger Euan Stevenson launch their new musical adventure combining trad jazz and string quartets, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (seated), West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

18th Annual Event

3 30 November/01 December and 07 & 08 December 2013

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Banchory Christmas Tree Lights Switch-on Thursday, 28 November at 6.30pm A great big thank you goes out to the many local groups in the area who have been working together to bring you this fabulous event. 2013 will be even more festive than ever.

Entertainment wise we have local musicians including the Banchory Pipe band, Singers and Youth Industries. For your delight there will be festive craft stalls with local producers the Birdhouse, Chatterbox and Continental Cream will be serving hot chocolate, pies and churros amongst other delights. The Rotary will be raising money for good causes in the area and will be on hand with cheery faces, mulled wine and let’s not forget the mince pies.

The switch-on will be performed by Andrew Considine. Andrew is a wellknown local lad who plays for Aberdeen Football Club. If you are very good, there might be an appearance from Santa too!

So please come along on Thursday, 28 November at 6.30pm and support a great local event.

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Enchanted Castle Wonderful, Weird and Magical

20-24th November 2013 Crathes Castle Aberdeenshire

Tickets on Sale Now

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Want to have fun, meet new people and get fit all in one night? Well now is your chance to do just that. Ceroc the modern jive phenomena - as seen on Strictly Come Dancing - has arrived in Westhill! Weekly classes are held at The Holiday Inn every Monday starting at 7.30pm.

Ceroc is a fusion of jive and salsa without the complicated footwork. Danced in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere to chart music, it creates the perfect night out. Though a partner dance, there is no need to bring one! Each routine is broken down so the class rotates every few moves, this way you dance with a new person about every 3 minutes! The perfect way to socialise!

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“Ceroc offers so many different things to so many different people,” says Lorna Baker the woman who brought Ceroc to Westhill. “ Some people want to lose weight, increase their social circle or simply try something new, what’s great about Ceroc is that it can offer all of these and more! Ceroc is about having a great night out with no pressure in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.”

Ceroc has also been given the thumbs up by the British Heart Foundation.



Strictly Come Ceroc

Weight Watchers has also seen the benefit of Ceroc adding a night at Ceroc to their exercise points system. Just 15 minutes of Ceroc can earn you 2 extra points, that’s 24 points for one night of dancing!

So to strut your funky stuff on the dance floor make sure you head to The Holiday Inn, Westhill every Monday, The Albyn on a Wednesday or The Station Hotel on a Thursday.

“Ceroc dancing can be very beneficial for For more info call on your health,” says Belinda Linden, Cardiac 07813 269 372 or log onto our website www.cerocscotland.com Nurse Adviser, “as it is easy to build into To ensure you have no excuses not to come your weekly routine thereby maintaining simply bring this article along to your local a healthy weight, preventing high blood pressure and improving cholesterol levels Ceroc venue and get your first class free and thereby reducing the risk of heart incl free membership to Ceroc for life! disease.”

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

Future Choices Dinner Dance Happy 5th Birthday 18.30h (Dinner at 1900h) until 01.00h

Saturday 26th Oct 2013 at the Hilton Aberdeen Treetops Hotel 161 Springfield Road Tickets Cost £40.00 Table of 10 for £360.00

Supported by Mr Paul O’Connor MBE

As Seen on TV - Auction Hero

The face of Future Choices Miss Ebony Scotland 2013

To book tickets Contact: Colleen McMillan - Gladys Annand 07784 229 964 07941 033 205 Lesley Anne Bemner David Forbes 07837 469 906 07821 700 046

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 01330 823937 www.biomedicalclinics.co.uk your one stop for health, wellness and chemical free beauty

traditional Scottish

music, song and dance classes Want to find out more?

Our traditional music, song & dance evening classes are held at Harlaw Academy, Aberdeen.

Visit our website for more information on classes and watch our new video to see what we do.

Our Autumn term started on the 23rd September but it’s not too late to try a taster class of your choice with a view to joining our Spring term on the 8th January. For more information email, office@scottishculture.org Like us on facebook and sign up to receive our Email newsletters.

Our class programme includes: fiddle guitar bodhran step dance pipes banjo clarsach mixed instruments session playing tin whistle flute mandolin harmonica ukulele accordion scots song ceilidh dance mixed percussion gaelic song w www.scottishculture.org e office@scottishculture.org Scottish Culture and Traditions Association (SC&T). A company limited by guarantee No 231578.

Registered in Scotland. Registered Office: 42 Carden Place, Aberdeen. Scottish Charity No.SCO 27559

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www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

clubs and classes...

2367 (Banchory) Squadron - Air Training Corps

The Air Training corps is a uniformed youth organisation supported by the Royal Air Force. For young people aged 13 and 17. www.2367sqn.org.uk Mon & Thur 7- 9.30pm McCombie Cadet Centre, Woodside Road, Banchory Aberdeen Patchwork & Quilting 01224 310379 The group meet monthly. Consisting of both beginners and more experienced quilters. We have speakers, demonstrations, workshops etc and would welcome new members. usually every third Wednesday in the month at Rubislaw Church Centre - 19.30-21.00 Facebook at aberdeenquilters or e: aberdeenquiltersgroup@gmail.com Awana A free childrens club (Nursery to P7) www.bcfchurch.org.uk Wed, 6.00 7.30pm Banchory Christian Fellowship Church, Burn of Bennie, Banchory Banchory & District Bridge Club For new people coming into the district, we can help with a bridge partner Tuesday, 6.50pm for 7pm start Burnett Arms Hotel, Banchory Banchory & District Round Table For men aged 18 - 45 years www.bad-rt.org Thursday, 7pm for 7.30pm Every 1st and 3rd Thursday, Banchory Lodge Hotel, Banchory Banchory Boys Football Club www.banchoryboysclub.co.uk Last Sunday of the month, 7pm Caters for children from last year in nursery to P7 for Saturday training sessions from 10 - 11.30am at KGV Park Banchory and then for development and competitive teams from U8 to U19 levels Banchory British Legion Banchory Community Badminton Club All abilities and ages welcome, Friday, 10-11.30am, Banchory Sports Centre Banchory Cricket Club Cricket available from 8 years of age through to seniors Burnett Park, Banchory Banchory East Badminton Club For age 14 years and upwards. Mon, 8-10pm, Banchory Academy Games Hall Banchory Gymnastics Club Girls from Primary 2 upwards. Waiting list in operation Tuesday , 3.30pm 5pm Banchory Sports Centre Banchory Morris Men Telephone 01330 822320 Lively dancing with stick, bells, etc. (and not just English, we also do Scottish dances at Crathes Village Hall - 815pm on a Tuesday.

Banchory Pipeband We are a non competing pipeband who welcome complete beginners to experienced musicians of all ages. Our practice is held on Wed between 7-9pm at the Banchory Royal British Legion.

Contact Banchorypipeband@hotmail.co.uk for more details.

Banchory Singers are a mixed voice Community Choir. Meet at the community centre at Banchory Academy Raemoir Road Banchory AB31 5TQ each Wednesday evening during school term time. 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm. Further info about the choir can be found on www.banchorysingers.co.uk Banchory Senior Citizens Club Our club meets at the Banchory Primary School Hall at 7.15pm on the first Tuesday of each month between Sept & June. We aim to provide an hour of musical entertainment, we also arrange a summer outing and a Christmas party. If you are 60 years plus why not contact us for more information on either of the follownig numbers - 01330-822977 or 01330 824318

Banchory Sports Centre Banchory, AB315XP Phone: 01330 825269 E: banchory.sportscentre@aberdeenshire.gov.uk Banchory St Ternan Football Club www.eteamz.com/banchorystternan Tuesday, Thursday , 7 - 9pm Games on Saturday 1pm Milton Park, Crathes Banchory Stonehaven Athletic Club For ages: 9 years to adult www.banchorystonehavenac.co.uk Monday Mackie Academy, Slug Road, Stonehaven, AB39 3DF Banchory Trampoline Club.

We teach from Pre-School to youth, from beginner to excellence. Sessions most days at Banchory Sports Centre.

Contact; John Wills at johnj.gwills@btinternet.com Banchory Volleyball Club We are a mixed group & have an adult section (age S4 +) which meets on a Thursday evening starting at 7.30pm - 9.45pm and a junior section (ages S1 - S3) which meets on a Monday starting at 6.00pm - 7.30pm. Both groups meet in Banchory Academy games hall. The purpose is to understand & enjoy the game of volleyball and all abilities are welcome. Qualified coaches take both sessions. Find us on Facebook - Banchory Volleyball Club.

Birse Community Trust Exists to promote the common good of the inhabitants of Birse Parish and deliver wider public benefits. www.birsecommunitytrust.org.uk The Old Schoolhouse, Finzean Birse Community Trust Exists to promote the common good of the inhabitants of Birse Parish and deliver wider public benefits. www.birsecommunitytrust.org.uk The Old Schoolhouse, Finzean Campfield & Glassel WRI 1st Tuesday of each month. September - April, 7.30pm , Glassel Hall, Glassel City of Roses (Sweet Adelines International) Ladies singing group. Being able to read music an advantage but not necessary cityofroseschorus.co.uk Mon, 7.15-10.00pm Drumoak Church Hall, Drumoak Corse SWRI Tuesday, Evening , 3rd Tuesday of the month Corse Hall, Corse, Lumphanan Deeside Childrens Music Group From 9 - 15 years, Thursday, 4pm - 5.30pm In term time only, Aboyne Academy, Aboyne Deeside Community Transport Two community minibuses for hire by community groups and non-profit groups. Both 17 seats and wheelchair adaptable. Charges are ÂŁ1.00 per mile (as at July 2012), with a minimum invoice of ÂŁ20.00.

Deeside Gliding Club Instruction available to all ages groups (subject to a minimum weight / height) in flying gliders. New members welcome www.deesideglidingclub.co.uk Deeside Heritage Society Disabled access. Members and guests welcome. Tea and Coffee available.

Third Wednesday of month, September to March, Bowling Club Pavilion

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clubs and classes...

Deeside Hillwalking Club An informal but active group, based around Banchory who focus on climbing munros and corbetts around Scotland. Minimum age 18 years We have a programme of events throughout the year, meeting approximately every 3rd weekend Deeside Musical Society We cater for ages 16 years onwards, but depending on productions we also cater for children e.g. if we are performing a pantomime. Fees £40 per session, concessions £30. Monday, 7.30pm Aboyne Academy Community Centre Deeside Orchestra Any age from 16 years and upwards. http://www.deeside-orchestra.co.uk Tuesday, 7.30-9.45pm Victory Hall. Ballater Road Aboyne Deeside Rugby Football Club Membership is open to all abilities and ages. Games and training at Woodend Playing Fields, Banchory. For Matches and Training Times www.deeside-rfc.co.uk Deeside School of Dance All types of class and singing and drama from 3yrs to adult Rdsd.co.uk Mon-Sat, Hill of Banchory South Banchory Deeside Youth Musical Theatre Age range 10 - 17 years. Theatre and musicals group performing one show per year usually in March Thurs, 6.30 - 8.00pm Deeside Community Centre Deeside Steam & Vintage Club Promotes the collection of steam and vintage machinery. Various events in the summer months from tractor runs to our annual rally The Deeside Village Hopper service is open to everyone! A scheduled service running Mon-Friday.

Please call for details 013398 85222, or see: www.mid-deeside.org.uk.

Deeside Writers First meeting free. £2 per meeting thereafter. Annual membership £10 www.deesidewriters.co.uk Tuesday, 7.30pm 3rd Tuesday of the month Woodend Barn, Banchory Drumoak & Durris Playgroup beehive.thisisnorthscotland.co.uk/default. asp?WCI=SiteHome&ID=5230 Tuesday-Friday mornings, 9.15am-11.15am Crossroads Nursery, Slug Road, Banchory Drumoak Durris Crathes Bowling Club Fees: Outdoor £50. Indoor £15, Juniors £12, Young Bowlers £25, Hats £1.50 Hat nights / Afternoons Tues & Frid 7pm or Wed & Sat 2pm. All ages welcome. Bowling Pavilion, Off North Deeside Road, Drumoak Durris Junior Agricultural Club Fees - depends on the age. Ages 14-26 to compete in competitions Varies, Usually 7.30pm Kirkton Hall, Durris Durris SWRI Disabled access. Fees £12 per year. Monday , 7.30pm 2nd Monday of the month Kirkton Hall, Durris Finzean : The Jolly Singers Finzean Hall Weds. 7.30 – 8.30 Bach to Berlin, via Berlioz and Burns.

Small group (mostly a capella) welcomes non readers. Louise 01330 850323

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Finzean SWRI Thursday, 7.30pm 3rd Thur of every month from Sept until April Finzean Hall, Finzean Fitness for the Over 50s Monday, 11am - 12.30pm Weekly, Sept to June, Victory Hall, Aboyne Footstars A fun football and fitness activity for boys and girls aged 2-6 years.

Currently running sessions 7 days a week in Banchory, Stonehaven and Westhill www.footstars.co.uk Friends of Durris Forests We work closely with Forestry Commission Scotland to monitor the use, accessibility and state of Durris Forest and its outliers. www.friendsofdurrisforests.co.uk Girlguiding - Banchory 3 Rainbow Units aged 5-7, 4 Brownie Units aged 7-10 and 3 Guide Units aged 10-14 but due to Waiting Lists we would like to open further Units when we can get the Volunteer Leaders www. girlguiding.org.uk The Kerloch Flyers Club We are a small group of aeromodellers based in Banchory, but our flying field is near the Kerloch hill, hence our title. The club is affiliated to the Scottish Aeromodellers’ Association. Anyone who is interested should contact Sandy on 01330 825301.

Metafit Exercise Class 30 minute group exercise class. Monday evenings 7:30pm, Alexandra Park Banchory. £5pp Noahs Ark From Bumps to 3 years of age. Mums have opportunity for a coffee and a blether! Friday, 10am-12 West Church Hall, Banchory Raemoir WRI For any age, Tuesday, 7pm, Third Tuesday of the month, Dalvenie Gardens Resource Centre, Raemoir Lane, Banchory Rotary Club of Aboyne and Upper Deeside Meets on Monday evenings, alternating between the Boat Inn Aboyne and the Glen Lui Hotel Ballater. Guests welcome. For more information see us on Facebook and/or contact Mike Powell on 013398 86369 or mike.powell21@tiscali.co.uk Rotary Club of Banchory Ternan Open to all rotarians. www.banchory-ternan-rotary.com Wednesday, 6.15pm for 6.30pm The Burnett Arms Hotel, Banchory Royal Deeside 41 Club Friday - First Friday each month Burnett Arms Hotel, Banchory Royal Deeside Railway Preservation Society Railway restoration & working railway. All welcome www.deeside-railway.co.uk Mon,Tues, Fri, Sat, Sun, Daytime Light and heavy volunteer work available Milton of Crathes Visitor Centre, Crathes Saltire Tae Kwon-do Academies Age specific programmes. Ninja Kidz (4-6 yrs), Dragon Warriors (7-9 yrs), Juniors (10 - 12 yrs), Youth/Seniors (13+yrs) and Korean Kickboxing www.saltiretkd.com/ Scottish Accordion Music Group Sunday, 2nd Sunday of month Kirkton Hall, Durris

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

Script to Screen & Stage Drama & Film classes for children of 7-12 years of age. Aboyne Class held in Victory Hall Thursday 4pm-6.30pm Banchory Classes held in Banchory Guide Hut 4pm -6pm & 6.15pm - 8.15pm Tel:01339 886265 email: s.2.s.and.stage@gmail.com www.script2screenandstage.co.uk Soft furnishing class in the Inchmarlo Hall Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning. I take 10 persons in each class and they can make anything from a cushion, blinds, curtains or re-covering dining room chairs. Classes run in school term approximately 10 weeks. Contact Moira : 01330822984 Splat 0-5 s Music Group Children aged 0 - 5 years invited with carers. Fee: 50p per family.

Disabled access and facilities Wednesday, 2pm - 3.15pm Term time only Drumoak Church Hall Strachan SWRI Ladies of all ages - £16 annual fee. Meet every third Thursday of the month. 7.30pm at Strachan Village Hall - Sept to May Tel : 01330 850442 for info.

Tai Chi Aberdeenshire For information about classes, tuition for groups or individuals, view the website. Instructor member of Tai Chi Union for Great Britain www.taichiaberdeenshire.co.uk Take a Seat Adapted seated classes of Tai Chi (Tai Ji) and Chi Gung (Qi Gong) for people who are unable to stand to exercise www.takeaseat.org.uk Tarland Film Club Monthly films chosen by you. BYO snacks/refreshments. Open to those aged over 18 years in the Tarland area. Held in the upstairs room at the MacRobert Hall. Email: tarlandfilmgroup@hotmail.co.uk, or telephone 07880 935803. Facebook under ‘Tarland film-group’.

Tom-Toms Singing group for Mums and carers with little ones from birth to 4 years. Fees £2 per family per week. We run 2 sessions ; 10 - 10.30, then 10.30 - 11 am. After each session refreshments are available.

This is a busy group and you are advised to call first. Banchory Ternan East Church Halls, Station Road, Banchory Details from www. banchoryeastchurch.org Tooters Music classes for young children in 3 age groups, Tooter Tots 0 - 2, Tooters 2 - 5 & Toots P1 & P2. Activities include singing, games, movement and instrument activities. tootersonline.co.uk Upper Deeside Art Society Annual fee of £18.00, individual workshop fee of £20.00. Talks cover a range of arts related subjects, while the workshops cater for a variety of mediums and subjects. www.udas.org.uk Friday, 2pm Monthly, also monthly Saturday workshops Aboyne Bowling Club White Crane Tai Chi Classes in Tai Chi (Tai Ji) and Chi Gung (Qi Gong). Established 2000 www.takeaseat.org.uk 7pm Banchory classes held on a Monday, Woodside Playgroup For children aged 2years 10 months to 4 years Daily, 9.30am-12 noon 12.45-3.15pm Burnett Park Pavilion, Banchory

Classes outwith the area...

Ceilidh Classes: Want to get some practice in for a wedding or a Christmas party?

Come along to our Ceilidh Classes! First Tuesday each month at South St Nicholas Church in Kincorth 7:30 - 9:00 - £5.00 each session.

Dates: 2013: 5th Nov, 3rd Dec 2014: 7th Jan, 4th Feb, 4th Mar For more information check our website: www.aberdeenrscds.co.uk or call 01224 636 128.

Scottish Country Dancing classes for all levels (Introductory through Social to Advanced & Demo) Classes commence w/c 23rd Sept at various venues around Aberdeen. For more information check our website: www.aberdeenrscds.co.uk or call 01224 636 128.

Aboyne 50+ Ramblers Walking group for the over 50s. Walks normally between 5 - 10 miles Friday, 10am Car Park, Deeside Community Centre Aboyne Baby and Toddler Group Friday, 10am-11.30am Babies and Toddlers 0-3 years Deeside Comunity Education Centre, Aboyne Aboyne Badminton Club Ages catered for 25 yrs+.Play all year round.£3 per player per night. £40 half year membership Tuesday, 7.15 - 8.45pm Aboyne Community Centre Aboyne Bowling Club Disabled Access. During summer Aboyne Bowling Club Aboyne Craft Club Disabled access, for all ages and all abilities. Bi-annual exhibition, speakers, outings, demonstrations,outings and fun! Wed 10-12noon Aboyne Bowling Club Pavilion Aboyne Playgroup For ages from 2 to 3 and a quarter years. £7 per session, £5 concession for second child Tuesday - Thursday, 9.30am - 11.25am Gallery in the Deeside Community Education Centre, Aboyne Aboyne Primary School Chess Club Primary 4 - 7 aged children. Disabled Access. Monday, 3.15pm - 4pm Term time only Aboyne Primary School Aboyne & District Probus Club For retired professional & businessmen.

Club meets fortnightly on the second and last Tuesday of the month at 10:00 for 10:30 in Victory Hall, Aboyne from September to April.

AboyneTennis Club Further information regarding coaching, competitive tennis, social tennis and social events can be found on our website www.aboynetennis.net Aboyne Youth Group For ages 12-18 years. Drop in, tuck shop, pool table etc. Free Friday, 7pm - 9.45 pm Term time only Deeside Community Education Centre, Aboyne Fitsteps - Fitness that’s ‘strictly’ Fun Classes : Kinord Hall Dinnet -Tues 8pm; Inchmarlo Hall-Wed 7pm Kinord Hall Dinnet -Thurs 10am Enquiries - Danielle 07741258390

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From super heroes to gaming to sailing and motorbikes, subscribe to magazines for free with your library!

Aberdeenshire Council has extended the range of magazine titles available from its libraries as part of the free eMagazine service, allowing local library members to access around 140 titles that can be read on a computer, tablet or phone.

This digital extension offers genres from lifestyle, computing, music, fitness, sport and many more.

Some titles include; Hello!; Men’s Fitness; Good Housekeeping; Cycling Weekly; SFX; F1 Racing; Classic Motorcycles and Country Living.

For the full range visit: http://www. aberdeenshire.gov.uk/libraries/readers/Zinio_ mags_190613.pdf The eMagazine service is easy to use and library staff can offer advice from any branch.

Library members can create an account online using a library number and email address and join within minutes.

Join now and be a part of the eMagazine community, read about sci-fi, computer games consoles, boats, cooking and much more.

Visit: www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/libraries/ readers/eMagazines.asp

Supermarket Opening Times Welcome to Morrisons Supermarkets, Banchory North Deeside Road Banchory, AB31 5YR 01330 820140

Opening times

Monday0800-2100 Tuesday0800-2100 Wednesday0800-2100 Thursday0800-2100

Friday0800-2100 Saturday0800-2100 Sunday0900-1900

Tesco Banchory Superstore Hill of Banchory East Banchory AB31 5QA. Telephone: 0845 0269618

Desk opening hours may not follow store opening hours.

Petrol Filling Station Forecourt facilities: Fuel 24 hours PayatPump Air and screen wash Fuels available: Unleaded Diesel Momentum99

Store Opening Times Monday 0600 midnight Tuesday 0600 midnight Wed 0600 midnight Thurs 0600 midnight Friday 0600 midnight Saturday 0600 midnight Sunday 0800 2200

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Click & Collect Clothing and Direct collect a the service desk.

Monday 0800 2000 Tuesday 0800 2000 Wed 0800 2000 Thurs 0800 2000 Friday 0800 2000 Saturday 0800 2000 Sunday 0800 2200

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

Tulip Mania All those years ago when ‘Tulipmania’ was rife, people were so taken by tulips that they allegedly paid close to house prices for some especially prized tulip bulbs. Fortunately nowadays we can relax and enjoy tulips without having to spend a fortune.

Late Planting Tulip bulbs are best planted after you plant most of your other spring flowering bulbs. Planting from the last half of October and well in to November generally works best – plant too early and the bulbs will be far more prone to damage by the fungal ‘tulip fire’ disease which wrecks the leaves and the flowers.

Gritty Bed If your garden soil is inclined to be clay and rather heavy, tulips may suffer and are certainly less likely to come back in respectable numbers after their first wet winter. A heavy loam works well but anything that is not well drained may cause problems. You can solve this to a good extent by digging an extra-large planting hole and putting an inch or two of horticultural gravel or grit in the base of the hole before planting the bulb.

Contained Colour Tulips make great plants for containers such as window boxes, tubs and decent-sized pots and planters. All types do well, but shorter varieties generally look best. Good drainage is essential so make sure that there are plenty of crocks in the base of the container and that it’s well supplied with drainage holes. Either a loam-free multipurpose compost or a mixed 50:50 with a loambased compost and a bit of added grit provide great growing conditions.

Fantastic Foliage Don’t forget that many tulips also have good looking foliage which can bring colour and texture to your pots and beds. Try the Kaufmanniana types such as ‘Johann Strauss’(dark

red flowers with yellow edges and mottled leaves), or even better the Greigii type tulips which all have maroon patterning on the leaves, such as ‘Red Riding Hood’ (richest red with black).

Tulip Partners It’s the ultimate classic combination, but to my mind it’s still not used often enough – richest red tulips surrounded by a mist of pale blue forget-me-nots. Dreamily pretty, this wonderful combination is easy to achieve; you can sow the forget-me-not seed now, as you plant the bulbs, or if you prefer, sow them early in the year, just before the bulbs emerge.

Long-lived Lovelies Tulips aren’t the longest-lived of bulbs; however you can always try growing the so-called species tulips such as Tulipa sprengeri or Tulipa turkestanica. They have smaller, less-showy flowers and will initially be more expensive but they look gorgeous and tend to last longer and, better still, also spread extensively in the right spot.

Good Companions Tulips look great with each other or with many other plants, and not just other flowers.

Try combining the richly purple-black leaved Pittosporum ‘Tom Thumb’ with any purple tulip such as ‘Passionale’, or for a wackier effect choose one of the frilly petalled parrot-tulips with green streaks on their petals, or the green ‘spring green’ tulip, combined with any low-growing shrub or other plant.

This is the best time of year to think tulips and all they have to offer your garden in the spring. Start planting now and transform your garden.

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for a great selection of products including signed copies of Pippa’s books, Grower Frames, cloches, pop-up plant cloches, raised bed kits, delightful terracotta herb planters and wall plaques, and lots more. You can also sign up for Pippa’s newsletter and get a free e-book on organic gardening.

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Christmas all wrapped up at ...

a e ive us t g Ho no le er? hy i ch W urm ou Fo ift V G

t: 01224 740318 www.fourmile.co.uk

Are you looking for a great venue for a work’s outing as well as going out with friends and family?

Book now for your pre-Christmas lunch and/or dinner.

NB: We are closed on christmas day and Boxing day and New Year’s Day