West End gazette - May 2012 Issue 66

Issue 66 May 2012

West End Edition Free Magazine

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Let’s celebrate with good old British Asparagus

West End gazette delivered to : 11800 West End Homes 200 City Businesses

Issue 66 May 2012

West End Edition Free Magazine

deadlines : 23 May 2012 for June Issue

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publisher/owner : Sue Simpson All enquiries : tel : 01224 - 318561

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www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk thru the door at : Airyhall, Ashley, Bieldside, Braeside, Broomhill, Countesswells, Craigiebuckler, Cults , Holburn, Kepplestone Houses, Mannofield, Morningside, Queens Cross, Rubislaw, Seafield, Viewfield, Woodland at Pitfodels, Woodend

Kumiko is a beauty and skin care centre

based in Broomhill Road, Aberdeen. It currently has a room available to rent. It is ideal for a multitude of uses and also available just as a one/two/three day a week rental ie Monday : Hypnotherapist Tuesday : Aromatherapist Wednesday : Chiropractor Thursday : Reiki Master Friday : Sports Remedial Massage Saturday : Beautician If your clientele in Aberdeen is building up and you’d like somewhere semi-permanent for a day or two a week then give Jenny a call at the number below ...

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Deeside gazette delivered to : Drumoak, Banchory, Torphins and Aboyne Drop offs : Peterculter and Kincardine O Neil contact details & deadlines : as above

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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call jenny for more info

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Ad-hoc contributions from : James Baggott; Pippa Greenwood; Jane Robinson and Amanda Wise Advertising Sales : Sue Simpson : 01224 - 318561

Distribution - thanks to : Anne; Mark; Sue; Ashley; Carol; Caroline; Gregor; Stuart; Jodi; Cameron; Kate; Sarah; Fraser; Laura; Freya; David; Elise; Emma; Maureen & Raymond; Bessie; Vanessa; Lauren; Sophie; Sharonn; Mary; Rebecca; Benjamin; Adam; Glenn and Jennifer

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Love it or hate it?

May is Asparagus month! I hope you’ll enjoy giving the two recipes a go!

Well, we’ve enjoyed a bit of weather since I last wrote! Hail, sleet, snow, rain, sun and that was all in one day! During peak exam fortnight though we can be guaranteed fantastic weather! Wishing all the students the very best of luck in their forthcoming exams. Remember to read the question thoroughly before starting and don’t panic. Definitely easier said than done.

Out and about I enjoyed a lunch at Books and Beans and Wagamama as well as a nice coffee and cake at Tease Coffee Shop in Banchory and The Meet Again Tea Room in Lumphanan, so if you are out and about definitely worth a visit.

I have part 2 of the electrolysis article; a nice wee short story about a Letter from the Queen; Pippa has some advice on pesiticides; Amanda asks us who are our ‘real’ friends; Jane get’s up to speed with Woodend Barn and we find out about the latest Mini in our motoring section.

The Adventure Collectors are on a fabulous mission to Mongolia. Read all about it in the centre pages. They have a great website and a really good blog to hold your interest further.

There is lots going on round about us this May, hopefully you’ll manage to attend some of it, or at the very least keep on top of the weeds in the garden!

So go grab that cuppa and enjoy this months’ gazette.

Until next time ...

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3

Let’s talk wine...

E is for English Wine It is thought that the Romans bought the vine to Britain but resurgence in production began in the 1950’s. There are now more than 300 English and Welsh vineyards especially around the south and the south east of the country. Some open their doors to the public and have established restaurants and visitors centres.

Exploring English wines gives you the chance to try less familiar grape varieties. Try the aromatic Bacchus grape (a Silvaner/Riesling, Muller Thurgau crossing) if you are a Sauvignon Blanc drinker. Staying with the aromatics, try the Muscat like Huxelrebe which can range from dry to dessert style. Other whites include the Alsace grapes Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris (Grigio).

For red wines, the lovely fruity Dornfelder does well in English climate as does Rondo.

The classic Champagne grapes of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier and are also planted. Some of the vineyards share a similar chalky soil and climate to the Champagne region and the resulting sparkling wines made using the same traditional method are very good indeed. One of the leading Estates in this field is Ridgeview whose bottles carry the Merret name after Christopher Merret who presented a paper to the Royal Society detailing the production of sparkling wine back in 1662.

Wines to try: Ridgeview Bloomsbury 2009 £21.00 thewinesociety.com Nyetimber Classic Brut NV £33.95 Wine Raks, Aberdeen M & S English Sparkling Wine by Chapel Down, Brut NV £20.00. M&S carry a good range of English wine.

For more information on the English vineyards visit englishwineproducers.com Viisit www.wineuncorkededucation.co.uk or call Carol on 01224 312076.

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Carol is an Aberdeen based member of the Association of Wine Educators and the Circle of Wine Writers. She runs courses, workshops and WSET training and hosts corporate wine entertainment events and the Aberdeen Wine Appreciators tasting group.

Ask for the wine at : Deeside Drinks Emporium 22 Dee Street Banchory 01330 822 650 e : gazette@fsmail.net

Short Story

A letter from the Queen

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“

ou know, when I was your age I received a letter from the Queen.” Ellen announced to her son in a transparent attempt to impress him.

Charlie looked up from the book he was reading; his beautiful eyes were alight.

“Wow! Why did the Queen send you a letter?”

Ellen squeezed into the armchair next to him.

“I drew a picture of the Queen and sent it to her. So she sent me a thank you letter.”

“This Queen?” he asked, “this actual Queen we have now?”

Charlie let this news sink in for a moment and then asked, “do you think if I drew a picture the Queen would send me a letter as well?”

Ellen smiled, “why not Charlie? It’s worth a try isn’t it?”

She enjoyed the quiet hour he spent at the dining table, drawing his picture in deep concentration. Once he had finished he proudly presented it to her.

“What do you think Mum? I think she’ll like it.”

“It’s lovely,” she agreed. “I think any reigning monarch would be delighted with a drawing of themselves fighting a dalek, armed with just a sceptre and a corgi.”

“It’s not a sceptre, it’s a sonic screwdriver,” he said, rifling through her purse for the stamps.

The next morning on their way to school Charlie posted his picture. After much deliberation he had addressed it to ‘Her Royal Highness the Queen, care of Buckingham Palace, or Balmoral, if she’s on holiday’.

Ellen popped round to see her parents on the way back.

Her mum was folding a pile of laundry. “Mum do you remember that letter I had from the Queen?”

Her mum chuckled. “That old thing. It took your Dad forever to decide how the Queen would sign her name.”

Ellen’s jaw dropped.

“Dad? You mean it was really from Dad?” Her mum looked surprised.

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\contd “Don’t you remember? We’d just exchanged contracts on Sandmere Drive and I suggested you draw a picture for the Queen to keep you quiet while we did the packing.”

A memory came back to Ellen of drawing a picture at the little breakfast bar in their first house, surrounded by piles of newspaper and tea chests. Her Mum patted her hand. “Did you never wonder how the Queen knew your change of address?”

Ellen let out a heavy sigh and slumped onto the pile of clean washing. “In that case, do you think Dad would mind writing another for me?”

The following week Charlie never once mentioned the letter from the Queen, but Ellen noticed that he was always first into the hallway every time he heard the postman clicking open the garden gate.

Then one day, she heard the clatter of the letterbox followed by a little cry of delight. She sighed with relief, and mouthed the words “Thank you Dad”.

Charlie came skipping through to the kitchen.

“I’ve got post.” His face was beaming.

“What is it?” she said, knowing full well. He held up a brown manila envelope.

“I don’t know what this is, but it looks like Granddad’s writing.” Ellen’s heart sank. Clearly her son was much smarter than she had been at his age.

“But look at this!” he added.

Charlie held up another envelope. It was crisp and white with Charlie’s name clearly typed on the front.

He placed it in Ellen’s hands with a look of awe on his face. She turned it over. Where it was sealed, embossed in gold, were the lion and the unicorn of the royal coat of arms.

by Jackie Brewster

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Open for lunch Mon-Sat 12-2.30pm Open for Dinner Mon-Sat 5.30-10.30pm

Freshly prepared produce Selection of fine Neapolitan & Italian wines Daily specials Private/corporate dining facilities Special Saturday lunch for shoppers

10 Bon Accord Crescent, Aberdeen Tel : 01224 213223 www.ciaonapoli.co.uk

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WOODEND BARN Words by Jane Robinson

Picture by David Officer

This summer the Woodend Barn in Banchory will be celebrating 20 years since it first opened its doors as an arts centre. And there is great cause for celebration.

The Barn was originally just that - a barn, and not one in perfect condition either. The roof was highly suspect, there were holes in the walls, and it was quite clear that considerable renovation was going to be required. But a band of local people possessed such a passion for the arts and culture as a whole that their energy and commitment was enough to bring about a change to that old barn that has created a very special place.

Twenty years after they first put on a production at the venue, the Woodend Barn is now considered one of the most exciting arts venues in Scotland. The administration of the centre organises a varied and very rewarding programme of events, with music, dance, theatre, animation, art, films and more. The quality of many of these acts speaks for itself, with performers and artists venturing from throughout Scotland, the UK and abroad.

In addition to an intriguing arts programme, there is a very strong commitment to the local community with local artists, musicians and other performers being encouraged and supported. Links with local businesses and organisations have also been forged as the Barn’s commitment to the area is a vital part of its ethos. And for those who might wish to take part on a more active level, there is also a packed programme of classes, workshops, special events, book groups, singing groups, and much more.

A crucial part of the Barn’s focus is on education. The education programme has been constructed so that it can reach right into www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk

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the heart of the community, not just within Banchory but throughout Deeside.

There are events organised within schools, village halls and other venues, as well as the Barn itself hosting a programme for school pupils, teenagers, and older people.

For example, Third Stage offers a varied programme of arts based activities for the over 60s on Deeside, where classes are friendly, informal and fun.

In terms of culture, not every rural area of Scotland is so well-provided for, and at a time when local authorities and other sources of funding are being stretched, it takes imagination and enterprise to keep such an organisation going. However, the Woodend Barn continues to flourish, providing a vital source of inspiration for many while keeping an ambitious eye on the future.

With a strong belief that good cultural links cannot only enhance the area, boost the local economy and help to provide employment, the Barn looks set for a bright future.

For more information on the Barn and all that it offers, check out the website at www.woodendbarn.co.uk. e : gazette@fsmail.net

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9

Dean Edwards’ Baked British Asparagus, Pancetta and Black Pudding Salad

Tis Asparagus Season The British asparagus season traditionally begins on 1st May and runs for around seven to eight short, but delicious weeks, until the end of June. Asparagus is very climate dependent (the soil temperature must be at least 10ºc before it grows), so if it’s been a warm spring then it’s possible to see the first asparagus spears on the shelves in late April.

Asparagus growers in the warmer south of the country will traditionally harvest their crop first, often starting to cut in mid-April – growers further north may not start until a few days later.

Asparagus can be grown under polythene, which makes the soil artificially warmer, therefore allowing it to be ready in limited quantities early in April – offering a first taste of this wonderful British veg. However, the bulk of the crop will be available when the main season gets underway later in the month and will then be plentiful in stores for seven to eight wonderful weeks!

British asparagus is hailed by leading chefs as the best in the world. While we might all grumble about the British weather, the UK climate allows asparagus stems to develop slowly producing a full, sweet flavour and a fine, tender texture quite unlike any other crop. And because it’s grown on our doorstep, we can enjoy British asparagus at its most flavoursome and nutritious – that’s no doubt why, during the season, we eat every last British asparagus spear ourselves, not one is exported overseas.

Antony Worrall Thompson says: “Everything tastes better when it’s been harvested here in the UK. This is particularly true of asparagus. The beginning of the asparagus season is a highlight of the culinary year. I can’t wait for May and the first bundles of fresh green domestic spears.”

Remember British asparagus is only in season for a short while. Don’t miss the chance to taste it. Look out for it in supermarkets, greengrocers and farm shops from late April and feast while you can!

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I love this dish! Baked British Asparagus teamed up with the smoky flavours of pancetta and black pudding; add into the mix a perfect poached egg with a runny yolk, what more could you ask for?

Cooking time: 20 minutes Preparation time: 10 minutes Serves: 4 You’ll need: 100g smoked pancetta 4 pieces black pudding, sliced 1-2cm thick 2 tbsp white wine vinegar 4 medium organic free range eggs mixed salad leaves 2 bundles British asparagus Oil for frying Salt and pepper for seasoning Dressing: 1 tbsp sherry or balsamic vinegar 3 tbsp olive oil 1/2 tsp wholegrain mustard 1 tsp honey What to do: In a little oil fry the smoked pancetta until golden then remove from the pan and drain on some kitchen paper. In the same oil fry the black pudding for 7-8 minutes turning once.

Place the asparagus on a tray, drizzle with olive oil and bake in an oven pre heated to 200°c / 180°c fan for 6-8 minutes turning once.

Meanwhile, in a deep pan bring some water up to a rolling boil, add the white wine vinegar and crack in the eggs. Turn off the heat and leave to cook for 6-7 minutes for a runny yolk, remove from the water and drain any excess water on some kitchen paper.

Whisk up the olive oil, vinegar, mustard and honey and season with a small pinch of salt and a grind of pepper.

Place a small handful of salad leaves on a plate along with the asparagus and the black pudding, top with the poached egg, scatter over the pancetta then drizzle over the dressing.

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What to do: 1. Prepare the asparagus by chopping it into 1cm pieces, leaving the tips a little longer.

British asparagus ice cream & smoked salmon toasts Serves 4 Preparation: 30 minutes Cook: 15- 20 minutes, plus chilling You’ll need: For the ice cream: 1 bunch British asparagus spears 500ml whole milk Zest of 1 lemon 4 egg yolks Salt and freshly ground black pepper For the toasts: 2 slices white bread, toasted 150g smoked salmon 1 egg, beaten 1tbsp cornflour 1tbsp chive, finely chopped salt and freshly ground black pepper 2tbsp sesame seeds sunflower or groundnut oil for deep frying

all the time, until the sauce has thickened. Season generously and pour into a bowl and chill.

6.

2. Bring the milk to a gentle simmer in a saucepan and add the lemon zest and the chopped asparagus, reserving a few of the tips to use as a garnish. Poach the asparagus 7. in the milk for about 5 minutes, or until tender. Turn off the heat and leave to infuse for 10 minutes.

3.

Whilst the asparagus is infusing in the milk begin to make the smoked salmon toasts by finely chopping the salmon and mixing in a bowl with the egg, flour, chives and salt and pepper.

4.

Cut the crusts from the toasted bread and cut each slice into 2 triangles. Spread the salmon mixture over one side and dip in sesame seeds. Chill in the fridge until you are ready to eat the ice cream.

5.

3/25/2012 12:02:48 PM

When the ice is made finish the salmon toasts by heating the oil in a large saucepan until hot. You can test if its hot enough by frying a cube of bread in the oil - it should turn golden brown in a minute.

Once t he oil is hot as the salmon toasts, sesame side down and fry for 2-3 minutes or until crisp and golden. Remove carefully and drain on kitchen paper.

8.

Cook the reserved asparagus tips in boiling water until tender and drain well.

9.

Arrange a couple of scoops of ice cream in a pretty dish and top with a smoked salmon toast and a tip of hot asparagus.

Returning to the ice cream, pour the milk and asparagus into a liquidiser, add the egg yolks and process until smooth. Return to the pan and heat very gently, stirring

Issue 11 of North-East North-East Scotland's Scotland’s magazine ofmagazine literature of literature andarts visual and the visual is arts to continue its isdelighted on sale at local vendors with NEOS, orpartnership via the gazette! both organisations with a Contact Sue to get your mutual passion to foster copy or pop intoof...our the artistic talents unique corner Scotland Junction Art &ofGifts - and to shareStores this secret Hammerton with the wider world!

Books and Beans Art Gallery insome Issue 11 on and sale at September via NEOS NEOS studios and outlets around the North East. outlets.

Cost £6.00

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Once the asparagus sauce has chilled churn it in an ice cream maker, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Freeze until required.

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Spotlight on Advanced Electrolysis The Skin Blemish Clinic at Kumiko Dedicated to providing effective, safe, professional treatments for the following skin concerns, utilising advanced electrolysis techniques to deliver exceptional results and complete client satisfaction.

Suitable for both men and women, many can be successfully and quickly removed. It is a tried and trusted method from the early 1900’s.

smoking, skin injury, outdoor pursuits, and exposure to extremes in temperatures.

Red veins most commonly appear on the face, often around the nose, cheeks and chin, spider naevi are commonly found in clusters on the cheeks and chest and blood spots are often found on the chest, abdomen and arms.

Treatment by electrolysis instantly coagulates or mops up the trapped blood as the heat works through the vein. The vein is cauterised at both ends preventing it from re-filling, making this treatment highly successful. There will be no scar or bruising like with some treatments. Dilated capillaries treated by electrolysis do not reappear, but new ones can form. Advice is given during consultation on how to discourage further appearing.

Red/Thread/ Broken Veins (Telangiectasia)

Spider Veins (spider naevi)

They are not dangerous, they are purely a cosmetic problem. Removing these unsightly blemishes is safe and leaves no remaining trace.

Blood Spots (Campbell de Morgan Spots)

Whiteheads (Milia)

What are they and what causes them?

These are all vascular (blood) blemishes. Red veins appear as small red lines, blood spots are round, red lumps, while spider veins have a central red spot with red lines radiating out from the centre like the legs of a spider.

They can all be hereditary. Other possible causes can include capillaries weakening with ageing, intense scrubbing of the skin, sun/wind damage, pregnancy, sensitive skin/ rosacea, excessive consumption of alcohol,

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What are they and what causes them?

These are white, pearly, rounded lumps which occur in the uppermost layer of skin when sebum (oil naturally produced by the skin) becomes trapped in a blind duct. More commonly found in dry skin conditions the exact cause is unknown, but often occurs with use of too rich creams on the skin.

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Health, Fitness and Beauty They are treated by applying the heat energy of electrolysis to them, where a tiny, pin-dot crust will form which will heal and fall away, usually within a few days, leaving no mark at all.

Skin tags (fibroepithelial polyps)

stalk or neck of the skin tag, then dessicating the tag where it will fall off within 5days leaving a pinkish mark where the new skin forms underneath but this will fade to leave no mark at all. Usually do not require further treatment.

Before the treatment can take place, a FREE consultation and patch test is required. Please see Jenny to discuss/ make an appointment.

What are they and what causes them?

Skin tags are soft and ‘squidgy’ i.e. you can wiggle them around and they can be skin coloured or brown. Sometimes they are caused by same virus as warts. Can appear anywhere on face and body but are more commonly found in areas of friction such as the neck (from collars and jewellery), underarms, under the breasts and in the groin area.

They can be hereditary, can increase with age and may also appear during pregnancy.

They are removed quickly and easily by applying the heat energy to the

Unwanted Facial and Body Hair - solution below Unwanted facial and body hair is a common problem affecting as many as 80% of ladies in varying degrees Electrolysis is the only proven method for permanent removal of unwanted hair.

Hair can be permanently removed from : • • • • • • • • •

upper/lower lip chin cheeks neck chest abdomen underarms bikini eyebrows

Bring along this voucher and receive £10 off your 1st Electrolysis treatment Valid until 31 May 2012. May not be combined with any other promotions. One voucher per client.

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Kumiko beauty and skin care centre 89 Gray Street Aberdeen AB10 6JD

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13

A trip to the beauty salon is the ultimate treat for many women after a stressful and hectic day. But, ‘me time’ should continue at home too as regular care of your skin will have lifetime benefits.

A facial is a great pick-me-up and one of those all-important treatments that not only results in glowing skin, but leaves you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated too. And what’s more you can achieve near professional results at home.

Part of the joy of treating yourself to a salon session is soaking up the atmosphere - the gentle lighting and soothing music equal total relaxation - so recreate that by turning your bathroom into a candle lit haven, that’s delicately fragranced and full of luxurious accessories.

Cleanse away the day by removing all traces of makeup. You must use a liquid eye make-up remover, cleanser and toner - make up remover wipes are convenient but not as thorough nor as pleasant to use.

Fresh Faced

- the ultimate at home

By Helen Taylor

The Body Shop 'Aloe Gentle Exfoliator' £8

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Estee Lauder 'Resilience Lift Face and Neck Cream' £58

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The Body Shop 'Tea Tree Face Mask' £9

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Clinique 'Rinse-Off Foaming Cleanser' £15.50

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Health, Fitness and Beauty Use a muslin cloth that’s been submerged in hot water to place over the face in order to open up the pores. Leave for a few moments before repeating.

Double cleanse by using a wash off cleanser that will extract any deeply ingrained dirt and grime. Smooth the product over the face and neck, before removing using circular, upward motions. Splash with water.

Now that the skin is at this stage it’s time to work on congested areas. If you are prone to blackheads then a good exfoliator is essential for clearing out blocked pores. And what’s more, they are great for removing dead skin cells and revealing brighter, fresher and younger looking skin.

Apply the exfoliant to damp skin and work all over, concentrating on the forehead, nose and chin. Always use upwards, circular movements and don’t be tempted to scrub - light strokes are all that’s needed.

After exfoliating, apply a face mask.

Ensure that it’s the right kind for you if you have combination skin then use assorted masks, applied in different areas for the very best results.

Many beauty therapists do this so that they can address the requirements of each part of the face. Thermal masks are fabulous. They gently heat up to draw out impurities and prove to be the perfect pampering treat.

Use a wet face cloth to remove the mask and splash your face with cool water before drying thoroughly.

At this point your skin should be feeling totally refreshed and super soft, but there is still more to do.

Applying an eye cream is a must to protect against and fight off wrinkles.

Start at the outer most point of the eye and use light tapping motions to press the product into the skin.

Because the eye area is so sensitive it really is vital that you do not rub, drag or pull.

Moisturise using a product that suits your skin’s needs and as you apply treat yourself to a mini massage that will stimulate circulation and bring much needed oxygen and nutrition to the surface. Work from the centre of your face, moving upwards and outwards, using your fingers and palms to lift and smooth the skin.

Don’t forget to include your neck in the massage too.

The results are sure to be amazing.

e facial

With your face mask on, it’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy doing nothing for a few minutes.

Looking for a Relaxed atmosphere Personal attention Weddings our speciality

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

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15

Darling Books for May It’s time to crown the new May Queen and dance around the Maypole. Heavily rooted in the pagan and the celtic, celebrations are taking place across the land. This magical time of year is all about nature, fertility, tradition and folklore. Make yourself a daisy crown, sprinkle on some fairy dust and dance barefoot in the moonlight. Or failing that, find a patch of sunlight and let a book lead you on a merry dance…

dispenses his magical juice which, when sprinkled on your eyelids, means you fall in love with the next thing you see. This is one dream from which you won’t want to wake.

The Most Amazing Places of Folklore and Legend in Britain: Where to Discover Our Living Heritage and Traditions, Readers Digest.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream, William Shakespeare Mischief abounds in one of Shakespeare’s best-loved plays which has three main, interwoven plotlines. The story centres around the marriage of Theseus, The Duke of Athens, and the Amazon queen, Hippolyta and is set in woodland as well as the magical realm of ‘Fairyland’. One of the most memorable characters is undoubtedly the fairy court jester ‘Puck’ who

Arthur, High King of Britain, Michael Morpurgo

Lob, Linda Newbery The original inspiration for Newbery’s ‘Lob’ was a stranger she saw on her way to work; ‘the man who walks the roads’. Where was he going and where had he come from? This image, combined with those of the ‘green man’ in English Folklore who appears in carvings as a face amongst leaves and branches, lead to her to create her garden helper ‘Lob’. Lucy ‘s grandfather tells her about Lob and all the ‘Lob-work’ he does around the garden. You can only see him if you believe in him.

It’s a beautiful and heartwarming children’s book which has great appeal for adults.

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If you’ve ever thought that Britain is lacking in tradition and folklore in comparison with our European neighbours, think again! This is a travel guide that will take you deep into the heart of the countryside and the legends that abound. From the solstice celebrations at Stone Henge to the yeti-like Beast of Bolam in the wilds of Northumberland, this is a land that’s teeming with folklore. Use this modern guidebook to take a step back in time and into a land that you may not recognise.

This is the second children’s book we’ve selected but it’s a wonderful way for kids and grownups alike to hear some of the magical stories of King Arthur and his mystical round table. Michael Morpurgo’s tale begins with a boy, marooned on a sandbank with the sea lapping perilously close to him. He wakes up in a strange bed and finds he has a visitor: King Arthur himself.

The legendary figure then recounts tales of Camelot, sorcery, knights on mighty steeds and betrayal. Prepare to be transported back in time.

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The Heart of Robin Hood David Farr

This is a brilliant reworking of the classic tale of the outlaw and his band of merry men. This time though, Robin and his men have grasped the idea of stealing from the rich, but have not yet signed-up to the principle of then giving it to the poor. It isn’t going down well with the poverty-stricken around Nottingham Forest. In David Farr’s adaptation, it’s Maid Marion who has to blaze the trail and convince Robin to follow his heart and not hold onto his swag, for the sake of the country.

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Keeping Pests at Bay the Natural Way More and more people have become concerned about using chemicals in the garden.

Indeed, some gardeners have used chemicals rarely, if at all, for many years. It may be that you are worried about wildlife and conservation in general or you may also be concerned about using gardening pesticides on plants that children or pets might play near, or that you intend to eat.

Greener gardening is not difficult, it is just different. Some of the most infuriating pests are to be found in greenhouses, conservatories and other protected areas, where they can thrive and breed rapidly.

It is a great help to know that there are now many ‘natural’ controls available in the form of predators and parasites, which can be purchased from mail order suppliers (including www.pippagreenwood.com) and then released into your greenhouse or conservatory. These insects or mites do a great job of keeping many common pests at bay, including whitefly, red spider mite and mealy bugs. There are also excellent controls available for slugs and for vine weevils, both of which can be used successfully outside too. For those who are troubled by pests such as leather jackets (symptoms are deteriorating patches in the lawn, shortly followed by the lawn being ripped up by birds or badgers searching for the ‘delicious’ grubs) or chafer grubs (also responsible for damage caused by eating plant roots), there are now biological controls available to keep these at bay too. There is also a fairly new control available, which sends ants off in the other direction – wonderful if you like to lie

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on the lawn or enjoy meals in your garden without being nipped!

I garden organically so I use these biological controls regularly. If your conservatory is also used as a place where you or the family relax or perhaps enjoy a drink or a meal, I’d say it is especially important not to fill it full of potentially harmful chemicals.

If you want to try these controls then you will need to make sure that your greenhouse or conservatory is not already packed full of chemical residues - otherwise they may kill the beneficial creatures you are introducing. For whitefly you need a tiny parasitic wasp called Encarsia and for red spider mite you need another mite, this time the predatory Phytoseiulus. Introduce these in amongst the infested plants and they will automatically go in search of the pests, soon getting their numbers under control and all without you having to lift a finger.

It may sound off-putting to release wasps into your greenhouse or conservatory (or mites come to that) but these little creatures are tiny and will not bite or sting: they are only interested in the pests.

Biological controls, including those for slugs and vine weevils, are all tricky for garden centres to stock, as what you are buying are living creatures which won’t survive if left sitting on a warm shelf for too long.

Mail order is therefore the best way to buy generally, with your predators or parasites arriving in the post along with strict instructions for storage (they should usually be kept in the fridge) and for using before the use-by date expires. But don’t let this put you off: biological controls are excellent and are used by many professional growers.

To ensure success you must follow the instructions precisely and make sure you introduce the control when there are a few,

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In Brief During the first week-end following the Queen’s Jubilee Holiday, why not come along to the Cowdray Hall, Aberdeen on Friday, 8th June at 7.30 p.m to hear the Aberdeen Orpheus Choir’s Summer Concert. The Choir conducted by Jane Murray with Accompanist Erika Fairhead will have as their guests The Albyn School Vocal Ensemble and Instrumentalists conducted by Laura Pike with Craig McDermott as Accompanist.

by Pippa Greenwood but not too many, pests around. If you wait until the air is choked with whitefly it can be a bit too much of an uphill struggle for the tiny little wasps. But the great thing is that you can relax in the knowledge that you’re not jeopardising any wildlife and that, in many cases, the biological control becomes self-perpetuating as the ‘critters’ you have bought breed and spread within the greenhouse. Now that’s what I call useful.

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com and sign up for her newsletter (and receive a free ebook on organic gardening) and shop from the new products area which offers a great selection of biological controls (for slugs, vine weevils, red spider mite, whitefly etc) plus growing frames, cloches, raised bed kits and lots, lots more.

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A wide variety of choral music will be performed including works by Mozart, Elgar and Haydn, songs from West-End musicals, a group of Scots songs and pieces by two contemporary composers – part of Morten Lauredsen’s Nocturnes and the hauntingly beautiful ”Seal Lullaby” by Eric Whitacre. This Concert will be dedicated to the memory of our Honorary President of many years, well known musician, Donald Hawksworth, who died in March of this year.

Tickets for the Aberdeen concert costing £8:00 and £6:00 (concessions) may be obtained from Choir Members or from Top Note Music Shop, 123 Crown Street, Aberdeen The Orpheus Choir will also give a concert at Skene Parish Church on Friday, 25th May at 7.30 p.m. the proceeds of which will be donated to Christian Aid. Guest Artists on that evening will be Trumpeters Ewan Harry-Thomas and Oliver Hay. 19

Wonderful Windows They keep in the warmth and keep out prying eyes, but window treatments are much more than a purely practical addition to a room, says Katherine Sorrell [Wooden shutters from Santa Fe Shutters (0845 076 0109; www.santafeshutters.co.uk) can be custom-coloured to any shade. Prices from ÂŁ250 per square metre, plus a one off charge of ÂŁ210.] www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk

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Curtains – where to start

Curtains – fabric and style

The cheapest and most subtle option for hanging curtains is undoubtedly a plastic or metal track. Double tracks can be used to hang both nets and thicker curtains neatly, while triple tracks allow you to use flat panels, perhaps of different fabrics, which can be pulled back and forwards in different combinations depending on the effect you want or how much light you wish to allow in. The more decorative alternative is a curtain pole – perhaps in see-through acrylic, slender stainless steel or pale-painted wood – and with pretty finials on the ends. On narrow windows or dormers, portiere (or swing-arm) rods are an alternative to fixed poles, while for a modern effect you could use tension wire, fixed taut within the window opening.

Whether you prefer minimal panels or swathes of fabric, it is best to take into account the architecture and size of the room, and of the windows, before opting for a particular curtain style.

Grander curtains tend to suit larger, period rooms, while simple curtains are often best suited to modern properties.

The way in which a curtain hangs is determined by its heading, usually created by a tape which is sewn onto the back of the curtain and pulled to form gentle gathers, smart pleats or a variety of other shapes. For a less formal look, however, there are plenty of alternatives. Tab- and tie-tops are often found on ready-made curtains, though they can be fiddly to draw. Curtains can also be hung from a deep hem which is simply slid over a pole, from large eyelets punched in the top (this looks

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Blinds Once considered something of a poor cousin to curtains, blinds are increasingly fashionable, offering a clean-lined look that is sophisticated and laid-back yet still pleasingly tactile.

any room. Boho Chic roller blind, Prices from £66.

Curtains can be made from practically any fabric, depending on your budget. The heavier the fabric, the better it will hold a fold, though very heavy fabrics will be too bulky for smaller windows. Very light fabrics will tend to look floppy unless supported by a lining. Lining is, in fact, always a good idea, as it will not only help the fabric hang neatly, but also protect it from fading, dirt and condensation. Thermal linings help retain heat, and can be as effective as double glazing, while blackout lining also blocks out light and some noise.

A simple roller blind can make a pretty addition to from The Fabric Box (0844 8118280; www.thefabricbox.co.uk).

Blackout Roman blinds in ‘Kobe’ from The Fabric Box (0844 8118280; www.thefabricbox.co.uk) have been softened with the use of opulent silk curtains. Prices from £88.59.

great hung from a tension wire), from clips (magnetic ones are easy to use) or even just from hooks.

What’s more, they tend to be far cheaper, as they require much less fabric – just the size of the window opening, plus hems. There are different options to suit different styles of room, many of them easy to make yourself or inexpensive to buy off-the-shelf. A roller blind in a neutral colour will blend into the background in a modern, minimal space, or could be used in conjunction with ‘dress’ curtains (fixed either side of the window) in a more formal room. Roman blinds pull up in lovely soft folds that give an attractive drape without going over the top, while fabric roll-up blinds which, literally, roll up from the bottom and tie in position, show off their reverse, thus offering an attractive combination of two fabrics. When choosing fabrics, midweight, not-too-textured fabrics tend to be best for blinds, which need to roll or fold easily against themselves.

Shutters

They may not be the obvious choice, and they are almost always more expensive than blinds or

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The secret of this Ninni Rund pair of ready made curtains from Ikea (0845 358 3363; ikea.co.uk), £49.99, is that they have both hidden tabs and a gathering tape at the top.

or folding back against the wall. The plainest, period-type shutters have a timber frame and a solid centre panel – they can be painted any colour and complement a Georgian or Victorian home extremely well.

American shutters have louvres that tilt up and down, offering privacy but also letting in light.

Alternatively, for a highly contemporary effect, it’s possible to have shutters made from sleek aluminium or funky acrylic, which comes in a range of gorgeous colours.

simple curtains, but shutters are goodlooking in an unfussy kind of way and suit both old and new properties.

They’re also great for privacy, for blocking out sound and light and adding an extra layer of security.

Depending on the configuration of your window, shutters can be made as a single pair, bi-fold, tri-fold or whatever will fit, either full-length, half-height (café style), or tier-on-tier, rectangular, tapering or arched in shape, and either set within the reveal

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23

Meet the Adventure Collectors This summer an Aberdeenshire team will take on the Mongol Rally 2012. ‘The Adventure Collectors’ AKA Alexa, Jamie, Jonathan and Henry will set off from Aberdeen on July 12th for a six week, 11,000 mile drive across Europe and Asia to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, in the hope of raising vital funds for two fantastic children’s charities.

With no set course, the team have opted for the notoriously demanding ‘Southerly Route’ which will see them plunge south-east from the start line in Prague towards Istanbul. From Turkey, they will cross the Middle East through Iraq and Iran before heading north into Central Asia. After negotiating the infamous ‘ tunnel of death’ in Uzbekistan they plan to join the ‘Pamir Highway’ - one of the highest, oldest, longest and most challenging roads in the world - traversing through the spectacular Tajik and Kyrgyzstan mountains, 4,500 metres above sea level. From Kyrgyzstan, the team will head north through the deserts and bandit country of Kazakhstan into Siberia before moving south-east toward the Mongolian border. The final and potentially toughest stage of the journey will see the team navigate 2,000 miles of Mongolian steppe, much of which is off-road and littered with unpredictable river crossings.

To make the journey as testing as possible and in support of their motto, ‘If nothing goes wrong, everything has gone wrong’, the organisers encourage teams to choose vehicles that are underpowered and unreliable, capping the engine size at 1.2 litres. This way, teams will invariably break down throughout the rally which necessitates interacting with and getting to know the locals. The Adventure Collectors have chosen a 1.2 litre FIAT Doblo as their chariot of choice which all agree is suitably unsuitable. The car will be donated to a local NGO, if and when they arrive in Ulaanbaatar.

The rally was initially set up in 2004 and has subsequently raised over £2 million for good causes. The Adventure Collectors are fundraising for two highly regarded childrens charities. CHAS, their primary charity, provide the only hospice services in Scotland for children and young people with life-shortening conditions. Their two hospices, Rachel & Robin House, offer short planned breaks, emergency support, end of life care and a range of bereavement services to hundreds of families throughout Scotland. The team’s secondary charity, The Lotus Children’s Centre, feeds, shelters and educates abused, orphaned and abandoned children in Mongolia.

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To raise money for their selected charities, The Adventure Collectors will be hosting a number of events over the coming months including a ‘firewalk’ - open to the public - giving you the opportunity to enjoy the inspiring experience of safely walking over hot coals. If they hit their fundraising target, the team have offered to navigate the whole journey – 1/3 of the planet – using nothing but a blow up globe, a compass and a lot of hope!

Once in Mongolia, the team will head east for a further 2000 miles across steppe interspersed with various river crossings to the Mongolian Capital, Ulaanbaatar.

By this point, our poor little FIAT will have taken a battering in both mountains and deserts, will have experienced a 50 degree temperature differential and some of the worst roads and poorest quality fuel on Earth.

For more information on fundraising events, to follow the adventure and for the chance to win Olympics 2012 tickets, visit www.adventurecollectors.com Or like our facebook page – for the chance to win.

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25

Mini Coupe Road Test The Mini brand is expanding yet again – this time into the niche Coupe market. James Baggott finds out more What is it?

Yet another Mini that’s been tweaked to keep the brand’s sales moving upwards. Sales for the maker are up 14 per cent year on year in a market down five per cent and the Coupe aims to add around 3,000 a year to that total. Classed as a ‘halo’ model, it’s not expected to be a volume seller, but a rival to the likes of the VW Scirocco and Audi TT. It has a lower roof, boot spoiler and only two seats.

What’s under the bonnet?

There are diesel and petrol options. As it’s the halo model, Mini won’t be offering One versions, only Cooper, Cooper S, SD, and John Cooper Works versions. We tried the SD and John Cooper Works. The latter is the rangetopper offering 149mph top speed, 0-60mph in 6.2 seconds and 39.8mpg.

The diesel is a bit clattery but great to drive. It returns 65.7mpg, hits 134mph and passes 60mph in 7.7s.

What’s the spec like?

High. Standard equipment includes DAB radio, air-con, parking sensors, alloy wheels and sport stripes. But as with all Minis, it’s the personalisation – both via factory order and dealer- fitted accessories – which are plentiful. The famous TLC servicing pack is available for £249 and some 98 per cent of buyers are expected to take it up. We’d like to know who the two per cent are that don’t…

What’s it like to drive?

Enjoyable, but for taller drivers, extremely uncomfortable. The low roofline means you have to constantly crick your neck and the seats sent our legs to sleep within 10 minutes. It handles much like the hatch and in the dry is extremely chuckable, but in the wet it suffered with understeer.

But none of that will stop fashion-hungry buyers snapping them up.

What do the Press say?

Auto Express said they thought ‘the powerful model has the makings of a machine that will take the brand to a group of drivers who feel that the standard hatch just isn’t tough enough’. While rivals Autocar said: ‘If you can live with the striking looks and driving appeal is a priority, it’s certainly worth considering.’

What do we think of it?

The looks certainly grew on us during our test, but no amount of driving dynamics could take our attention away from the pain in our legs, not something any driver wants to experience. With only 3,000 expected to find homes, this low-volume model will be a fashion statement for styleconscious buyers. And with a Roadster due next year, it’s clear the Mini brand’s expansion is set to continue apace.

by James Baggott, editor of Car Dealer Magazine (CarDealerMag.co.uk)

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27

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Everyday history spectacles

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It would be reasonable to imagine spectacles as a modern invention, so it may come as something of a surprise to note that Marco Polo, visiting China in 1270, observed elderly Chinese wearing them.

On the basis of legend rather than fact, St. Jerome is credited with the invention, which takes us back to c.340-420 A.D. More substantive evidence however comes from the Roman writer Pliny, who recorded that the emperor Nero watched gladiatorial combat through an ‘emerald ‘, which has been interpreted to mean that he used some form of eyeglass.

The first medical observation is recorded by Bernard Gordon, Professor of Montpelier, recommending “a collyrium of such potency that it will enable those whose sight is weak from old age to read without glasses.”

A sermon of 1305

by Fra Giordano da Rivalto states “It is not yet 20 years that the art of making glasses was invented” but no person is identified as the inventor.

Spectacle frames deserve a separate mention.

The oldest recorded example from a painting by di Modena in 1352 shows two lenses in heavy rims joined centrally. The inconvenience of holding such heavy items in place led to experiments with leather rims, gold, silver, horn, wood and even fish-bone with one suggestion being that the glasses should be secured to the wearer’s hat.

Until almost the middle of the 19th century the provision and fitting of spectacles was a service provided by untrained street vendors and choice was very restricted.

Although corrective surgery and contact lenses are now available, glasses are still the most popular form of vision correction with custom prescriptions and a huge choice of styles.

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29

Who are your Real Friends?

Before I make my real point today maybe I should come clean about my personal feelings about social media such as Facebook and the extent to which it has taken such a hold over our lives and our precious resource of time. I would always far prefer to talk in person or even email more privately one-to-one than to keep in touch with people via a website. I find it so much more enriching to have what feels more of a “real” relationship with people and I do know plenty of others who feel the same.

Having said that I totally understand the power and attraction of sites such as Facebook, particularly for young people wishing to share the details of their lives and shared experiences with a wider group of friends, and for those whose lives have taken them all over the world and whose friends are spread across a huge geographical area.

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Whilst avoiding what could become several pages on the pros and cons of this massive “phenomenon” that has literally swept the world in the past few years I especially want to share with you today a specific trend I have noticed in my work which it seems Facebook is exacerbating, and which definitely does not make people happy.

Surveys in the USA indicate that more than half of young people there check social networking sites daily, and 22% check more than 10 times per day. I’m sure figures for Scotland are similar. So it’s taking a lot of our time and attention.

Wise people throughout the ages have always known that one of the surest ways to take the edge off our happiness is to compare our lives negatively with those of others. Each of us has finite resources of time, energy, talents etc. and in an entire lifetime we can never do absolutely everything we might have liked to do. We cannot read all the books that might interest us, see all the films we might enjoy, visit all the places we might be curious about, or try all the careers we might have a leaning towards.

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We have to make choices throughout our lives, decisions which will take us down a path, or a branch off a path, which will preclude us from taking other branches at the same time.

There will be combinations that can work for us and others that we deny ourselves by the choices we make but as long as we know our priorities that’s ok.

The danger comes in looking at where others are on their life’s journey and feeling upset or inadequate or fretting that we are failing somehow in not being where they are or having the things that they have.

Even mature, intelligent, successful adults are finding since the advent of Facebook they have found the temptation to compare themselves with others is greater than ever.

This is partly because Facebook allows us to present a very carefully sifted and edited image of our lives to the world, sharing all the good and funny and exciting bits and minimising reference to life’s daily frustrations and the sheer hard work and e : gazette@fsmail.net

personal cost behind the exciting stuff and what we have perhaps had to sacrifice in order to have what we have.

Research is being done at the moment into the effects of Facebook on various aspects of human behaviour, not just on teen behaviour. Part of the reason for this is the concern that Facebook “offers a gateway for hundreds of shallow relationships and emotionally detached communication.” Social networking in general allows the user a great deal of control over how he or she is presented to and perceived by peers and other users (*) So coming back to my question to you... Who are your Real friends?... if you or anyone close to you is affected by this temptation to compare your lives with others and to find your life wanting, as opposed to thinking “Wow I’m lucky... thank goodness I don’t have to deal with their problems...” then how about this: First of all if you have just a handful of Real Friends, people you could really call upon in a crisis and one or two who you could tell absolutely anything to, then you are lucky and have a great richness in your life that you may not have acknowledged before.

Secondly, if you are ever struggling, ask yourself ”What would (my real friend) say to me in this situation?”

Chances are they know enough about your life to tell you what you have overlooked and remind you of all that you could be laughing about, or noticing, or reframing in your mind to look at this in a different, healthier and happier way.

I would suggest that having just a few Real Friends is worth far more than any number of loose connections on social media and if the fun you get out of maintaining those many connections does not exceed the cost to you in time invested (and the opportunity cost of other things you could be doing) then maybe it’s time to revisit your priorities...?

If this article has made you think, or you want to discuss how I could help you with this or any other aspect of your life please email me on Amanda@ WiseLifeCoaching.com or via my website www.WiseLifeCoaching.com or call me on 0845 226 2816 I look forward to hearing from you  Thank you. (*) Ref. Christopher Carpenter, PhD, Assistant Professor of Communication at Western Illinois University

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In Brief : Gray's Students Prepare for Final Year Degree Show Final year students are preparing for the School's annual Degree Show, now in it’s 127th year, and sponsored

by BP for the ninth year running.

This year's talent showcase will be launched on Friday 15 June, providing an ideal opportunity for visitors to see emerging creative talent and engage in discussion about the ideas behind the work.

Over the years, Gray's Degree Show has become a firm favourite with the Aberdeen public, with a range of final year undergraduate projects, spanning fashion and textiles, 3D and product design, graphics, digital media, visual communication, painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography and electronic media.

Visitors to the Degree Show will see an exhibition that reflects the very best of contemporary practice involving the integration of digital technologies alongside photography, animation, time-based and interactive media co-existing and complementing high quality work produced through the traditional studio processes that Gray’s is renowned for.

Gray's School of Art Degree Show 2012, sponsored by BP, will be launched on Friday 15 June. The show will then be open to the public from 16 to 24 June (10-5pm throughout the weekend and from 10-8pm on weekdays) at Garthdee Road, Aberdeen.

For more info, please visit www.rgu.ac.uk/degreeshow.

31

A Queen By Any Other Name

By Daniel Hicks

There won’t be many republicans in evidence in London this summer. Even non-royalists will be caught up in the pageantry of Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations; an event guaranteed, even more so than the Olympics, to lift the nation’s spirits at a time of general despondency. As part of the celebrations The Queen has granted city status to four UK towns: Perth in Scotland; St Asaph in Wales; Chelmsford in England and Armagh in Northern Ireland.

In this speech the Queen also paid tribute to the support of her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, and the speech is as valid and as relevant today as it was sixty years ago.

There was another time in history when the country’s collective spirits needed lifting – sixty years ago. Residential streets were closed to traffic so that local communities could hold street parties. Bunting and Union flags hung from lines strung from upstairs windows on either side of the streets. Makeshift tables sagged under the weight of sandwiches, jelly and custard and bottles of Tizer.

How differently history would have read had her would-be assassin, Marcus Sarjeant, succeeded in acquiring a real gun and live ammunition. The mentally disturbed teenager fired six blank shots at the Queen as she rode in the Trooping the Colour ceremony on 13 June 1981. He was quickly overpowered by Police Sergeant John Woodcock and St John Ambulance man John Heaseman. He told them “I wanted to be famous. I wanted to be a somebody.”

And he had written a diary entry: ‘I am going to stun and mystify the world. I will become the most famous teenager in the world.’

Games were organized, one of which consisted of the father of a family threading a needle and cotton which he then handed to his impatiently waiting offspring who would sprint down the road to the mother. The mother would sew a button onto a square of material which the offspring would then rush to the referee. Not all the families could participate in this game; some of the fathers had not returned home eight years previously.

In the evening we sat round our wireless sets to listen to our new Queen’s speech: “…Throughout all my life I shall strive to be worthy of your trust…”

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Times changed. Britain changed; in some cases beyond recognition. But there has been one constant: a tower of strength whose influence will not be fully appreciated until she is no longer with us.

In a much earlier speech, made in Cape Town on her twenty-first birthday, 21 April 1947, the then Princess Elizabeth declared “… my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service…” Well, we all know now that it was to be long. We also know that she meant every word she said.

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Fortunate not to have been shot on the spot he escaped with five years imprisonment.

But most notable was Elizabeth II’s majestic reaction to the incident. As her horse, nineteen-year-old Burmese, panicked and reared she calmly brought him under control and continued with the scheduled ride to Horseguards Parade, comforting him with a few pats on the neck while turning to smile at the cheering crowd.

This was, allegedly, the second attempt on the Monarch’s life. According to a retired senior police officer in Australia he was in charge of an investigation in 1981 after a train carrying the Queen and Prince Philip collided with a large log which had been placed on the track after police and a pilot train had passed along the route. The retired officer, Mr McHardy, who claims to have interviewed suspects including IRA sympathisers says the Australian government issued a suppression

order to avoid embarrassment. There has so far been no comment from Buckingham Palace on the validity of these claims.

True or false I doubt that the Queen loses much sleep over these stories. She has, over the past eight decades, proved herself indomitable.

It was the Queen’s consort, HRH Prince Philip, who pointed out that sometimes a position is more important than the person who occupies that position. With typical clarity he had put the concept in a nutshell: if a nation chooses to have a figurehead then there must be a human to give that position substance, but the human is secondary to the position, not vice versa. For the past sixty years we have been fortunate in having a person worthy of that position; a person of supreme dignity and dedication the like of which this country may never see again. God Save the Queen.

Community News

Braeside and Mannofield

Community Council Meet at Airyhall Community Centre

The next two meetings will be at 7pm on Tues 8 May and 12 June in the Raven Room, Rubislaw Church Centre.

ALL WELCOME !

At 7pm Next Two Meetings for your diary are : Wednesday 25 April Wednesday 22 May

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community clubs & groups adult groups 34

Adult Choi Kwang Do Inchgarth Community Centre Garthdee Wed 8pm-9pm Tel Claire : 746778 Indoor Bowling @ Holburn West Church 2-4 pm Friday Bon Accord MBC Hockey tel : 01224 572075 www.bonaccordmbc.net email : info@bonaccordmbc.net Seafield Bowling Club Cromwell Gdns : A Leaper, Treasurer Tel 319985 If you are interested in an outdoor pursuit among friends?

Rubislaw Tennis Club Cromwell Gardens Offers friendly and competitive tennis for all ages.

Membership info David Stead (Sec) Tel: 07811 748512 Tues Coffee Holburn West Church - Coffee & biscuits every Tues 10:30 - 11:30 All welcome.

Aberdeen Choral Society Mike Longhurst tel : 861629 @ Queens Cross Church Hall 7.30-9.30pm The Bridge Club : tel : 01224 322719 (Sally Reid) 14 Rubislaw Terrace Granite City WRI Ruthrieston Community Centre, 536 Holburn Street, Meets 4th Wed of the month, Sept to Jun. 7pm – 9pm. All welcome: Tel 571131 or 316266 University of Third Age (U3A): tel 702836 Marion. Informal learning for the retired & semi-retired.

Monday Club : tel : 01224-322946 Queen’s Cross Church Hall - Mon’s 2-4pm. Friendly games of bridge & scrabble - beginners welcome - All Ages Royal Horticultural Society Abdn tel : 781171 1st Tues in Mar @ 7.30pm Girl’s Brigade Hall, 19a Victoria St The Learig Orchestra Tel : 322617 Brian Priestley Welcomes string, brass & woodwind players of all standards to its rehearsals at Woodend Hospital on Tues at 7.30pm Old Time Dance Classes Dunbar St Hall, Old Aberdeen - 7.45pm - 10pm 1st & 3rd Tues each month £4.00 per night Tel : James Watson : 314953

Scottish Country Dancing RSCDS Aberdeen classes for adults have now finished for the season - starting again next September! During the summer we run Summer Socials to which all Scottish Country Dancers are welcomed. Every Wednesday from 2nd May to the end of August at Curl Aberdeen from 7:30 - 9:45 - not suitable for complete beginners - but if you have done Scottish Country Dancing before we look forward to seeing you! For more information call 01224 636128.

Aberdeen Chorus - Sweet Adelines Int’ Britannia Hotel, Bucksburn, Mon 7.30 10pm Tel: Debbie 07967629272 Silver City Blues - Masters Swimming Club

Hazlehead Pool Mon 8:30-10pm, Cults Academy Tues 8:15-9:45pm, Robert Gordon University Weds 7-9pm, Cults Academy Thurs 8:30-10:00pm.

Contact: Head Coach Hilary Stewart on 07815824057 Senior Citizens Group Tues (2-4pm) Airyhall Community Centre. New members always welcome Interested, contact 318698 (sec) The City of Aberdeen Probus A Club for retired businessmen & professionals. Meet on Wed am’s twice monthly (Sept - Jun), (Aberdeenshire Cricket Club) A wide range of talks on many topics fm interesting speakers. Other activities incl occasional lunches, trips, bowling & golf competitions. New members welcome. Chris Blunt, Tel. 317298 Airyhall Community Centre Bowling Section Meets Mon/Wed/Fri 10-12 – Fri pm 2-4 £6 for session £4 to join community centre Limited spare bowls if you don’t have your own.

Tel : 318103 (Bill Setter) Granite City Speakers Club Meet every two weeks on Friday nights at 8.0pm in Aberdeen Arts Centre, Secretary: Fred Stewart, tel 723937 Our club offers a warm friendly atmosphere, advice and support. New members & visitors welcome.

Aberdeen Kilt Kickers American Square Dance Club, Meets at WRI Hall, Cults, Beginners from September 7.30 - 9.00pm £2.50 per night Fred Gibb, Tel 486665

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Woodend Bowling Club 285 King’s Gate, A. McCulloch Secretary Tel. 317317 Friendly and relaxing outdoor activity: new members welcome.

Aberdeen Gaelic Club Brings together Gaelic speakers and individuals interested in Gaelic language and culture. Gaelic language evening classes & weekend courses plus social activities. tel 0777 939 8289, e clubgaidhlig@googlemail.com or http://aberdeengaelic.wordpress.com.

Holburn West Church Tennis 12a Ashley Park South Open Apr - Oct Annual Subs & Family Membership at Bargain Prices New members always welcome Small friendly Club Sally Davis (sec) Tel. 326111 Aberdeen Bowling Club Come and join us for a game of bowls at 50 Carlton Place. Tel.643233 Woodburn Walkers Enjoy the countryside, meet new friends, keep fit – join the Woodburn Walkers. Age: 55+. Transport: Hire Bus. Fortnightly: Tues Start Point: Hazlehead Park. Time: 9am for 9.15am.

Average Distance: 7 miles Tel: 318313 & 821753 Yoga Teacher : Florence Wed 1030-1130, Broomhill Activity Centre 050 t : 316278 £2 per class It’s wonderful!

Bon Accord branch – Sugarcraft Guild Meets at Rubislaw Park Care Home Last Mon of month, 7-9pm Learn lots through demos and workshops £5 per meeting (incl refreshments) – friendly & informal group, enjoyable at all skill levels. Call Madeleine Fraser 591672 for a programme Viking Hiking (Nordic Walking) One hour sessions each Thurs, Fri, Sat and Sun at 10am, Meet at Hazlehead main car park (behind the Park Restaurant). Info fm John Greig Tel. 321088 Aberdeen Humanist Group Skene House Hotel, 6 Union Grove Monthly meetings for those with a secular life-stance. Interesting speakers and topics for discussion.

Tel : M Richardson - 01888-562237 e : gazette@fsmail.net

Northern Arts Club 8 Bon Accord Square, Aberdeen Come along to draw and paint on Wednesdays 10-12.30pm. Tutor session 1st Wed. of every month.

Contact Jacqueline 586928 Life Drawing Class 8 Bon Accord Square, Aberdeen Saturday morning 10-1pm Please contact Ian 484040 Bridge Tuition Beginner and intermediate Thursday evening, call Margaret 868230 Room/s for hire 8 Bon Accord Square, Aberdeen Do you need a new venue for your book club/chess club/choir/art & craft club, then contact Jacqueline 586928 Aberdeen Tai Chi Chuan ‘88 Authentic tai chi, thorough tuition with Don Wells.

Cults Church Hall, 6.30pm Wed £3.50. First class free.

Rotary Club of Aberdeen Deeside Weekly on a Wed. at 6.15pm for 6.45pm in Cults Hotel. Rotary is a Service Organisation for community and international needs putting“Service before Self”.

Take a look at www.aberdeewndeesiderotary.org.uk to see our range of activities and speakers, or come along and see what we get up to. Contact secretary Quentin Tweedie 868218 Iyengar Yoga Classes ; Tues 12 - 1pm & 1pm - 2pm at citymoves Tues 7.30 - 9.30 pm & Wed 7.15 - 9.15 at South Holburn Parish Church. All classes run by Fiona Bochel, Cost is £5 an hour, tel 861347 Like walking?

Then why not join the “Seafield Walking Group”. It’s a great way of keeping fit, socialising and getting out into the countryside! For further information contact Elinor Tel. 314609.

Tango Aberdeen Argentine tango dance classes Wed & Sun evenings fm 7.30pm £6 (Conc £4) Discover the passion & elegance of Argentine Tango www. tangoaberdeen.com Keep Fit Class, the Swedish Way! Day: Monday Time: 5.30pm Fitness, flexibility and strength,“all round exercise to great music”. No need to book, just turn up and have fun while working out!

For more info : contact Sue 07766218880 Mannofield Church Hill Walking Club Monthly trips to the Cairngorms. New members welcome. Contact Peter Stewart for a programme.

313721 or p.stewart1@btinternet.com .

Rubislaw Church Centre Fountainhall Road/Beaconsfield Place Open Monday - Friday morning for teas, coffees etc Full access and facilities for those with disabilities Rooms available for hire - contact 645477 www.rubislawchurch.org.uk Jog Scotland Meets at RGU Sport Garthdee Road Wed 6pm Contact Mandy 322158 Jog Scotland - Airyhall Meets outside Airyhall Community Centre Tuesday 7pm. Contact Julie 325 830 or www.jogscotland-airyhall.co.uk Rotary club of Aberdeen St. Nicholas At present we are canvassing for new members,we are a very friendly club who meet for lunch,friendship and business every Monday 12.45 for1.00 pm at the Northern Hotel.If you are interested you are welcome to join us any Monday lunch time. If you would like to find out more click on to rotary 1010.co.uk select clubs and go to Aberdeen St. Nicholas or telephone Ernie on 641299/312493.

Airyhall CommCentre badminton group meets weekly on Mondays 8pm to 10pm new session starts 5/9/11 New members welcome. Annual sub to join centre is £6 plus nightly fee of £1.00. Phone David Campbell 321301 or e mail david@david143. doo.co.uk Hatha Yoga Tues17.45 – 18.45, The Aberdeen Yoga centre, 8 Bon Accord Sq Thurs 10.00 – 11.30 / Fri 10.15 – 11.45 Fri 12.05–1255, Queens Cross Church, Session Rm Tel: 648475 or moira.chicometrics@gmail.com Registered Yoga Scotland teacher Craigiebuckler Seniors Club Criagiebuckler Church Hall 1st Wed of every month 2-4pm speakers/entertainment/teas/coffees £1 per person, all‘seniors’welcome Woodend Bridge Club Woodend Bowling Club Bridge on Mon evening, Tue evening and Friday afternoons. Ample free parking. Contact Chris Blunt 317298 Craigiebuckler & Seafield Community Council craigden10@live.com We will discuss issues affecting our community and decide on strategies for resolving them. 7.30pm in Craigiebuckler Parish Church hall

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Airyhall Choral Ensemble ACE Juniors and ACE Seniors. Both groups meet at the Airyhall Community Centre on Fridays, Juniors meet at 3.30pm & Seniors at 4.30pm. Cost: £28 per pupil for a term of eight classes. Telephone: 433163 Valerie Kemp or for more info & bookingform http://tutorsalliance.co.uk/Music-Lessons.php Friskiis & Svettis Exercise Class Senior Basic : Monday 9.50 Friday 10am £2.50 per class. Drop in - come as often as you like.

Cairncry Community Centre Tel : Gunilla - 319377 Adult Italian Classes: Hillview Community Church - Cults Email enrica.conti@tiscali.co.uk Tel 07786 827714 Morven Singers We are a 4 part Choir singing a wide variety of music.

We meet in Ruthrieston Church Hall, Broomhill Road on Wed 7.30p.m. to 9.30p.m. Interested, contact Tel 07519 749 258.

Airyhall Ramblers: Over 50s Walking Group Walks fortnightly on Wednesdays, average distance 6/7 miles. Transport provided, meeting near Airyhall School at 9.15. Friendly folk, good exercise.

Interested? Contact Anne Ross 314524 Exercise the fun way, the Swedish way!

Fun & effective all over body workout to lively music!

Hilton Community Centre, Hilton Road. No need to book, just turn up & enjoy.

Tuesday 6.30pm-7.30pm faye53@btopenworld.com No fancy keep fit gear required, just comfortable clothing & trainers, maybe a bottle of water! For further info, contact Faye 07738 786926 Westburn Lawn Tennis Club Come and play tennis on REAL GRASS courts at Westburn Park. Westburn is a small, friendly club offering both social and competitive tennis at very reasonable rates. Courts open SUNDAY 22 APRIL 2012 at 2pm - come and join us (free for your first visit).

Membership info: Barbara Miller, 635556

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parent and toddler groups

community clubs & groups Mannofield Mother & Toddlers 10-1130am Mon for children aged 0-3.

10- 130am Wed for children aged 0-3.

10-11.30am Fris for children aged 0-3.

Mannofield Church, Gt Western Rd All welcome - friendly, sociable groups Holburn West Mothers & Toddlers Meet on a Wed fm 0930 & Fri fm 9.45am Parent and Toddler Group Wed (not school hols) fm 9.45 - 11.15 Rubislaw church centre, beaconsfield pl NCT Bumps and Babies Queens Cross Church,Thurs fm 2 - 4pm ‘Toots’ Playgroup Airyhall Community centre 2’s Group 1 ½ to 2 ½ - Tues & Thurs 9.30 to 11.30 Playgroup 2 ½ onwards – Mon, Wed & Fri 9.30 – 11.30am Holburn West Playgroup Meet on a Wed fm 930am Babies andToddlers Mon 0945-1200 Crown Terr Methodist Church Friendly group for parents/carers of children aged 0-3 Cost £1 incl refreshments.

861209/733276 or 01330 823480 e-mail: babiesand toddlers@aberdeenmethodist.org.uk

Midstocket Playgroup, Midstocket Parish Church, Harcourt Rd. 2.5 - 5 year olds. Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 09.15 - 11.45, Mon,Tues,Thurs 13.00- 15.30.

Funded places available. Tel. 07542 256703 www.midstocketplaygroup.co.uk Rubislaw Playgroup Playgroup: Rubislaw Church Centre. Mon to Fri 9:1511:45; from 30 mths to school age. Funded places available. Call 07747 830386 b/n 9:30 & 12:15 or email rubislawplaygroup@ hotmail.co.uk Toddlers and 2s: Rubislaw Church Centre. Enjoy play, craft, singing and snack.

Toddlers: Up to 2 yrs; Wed 9:30-11:30 2s Group: 2 to 3 yrs; Tues 9:30-11:30. Call 07747 830386 b/n 9:30 & 12:15 or email rubislawplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk/ Messy Play Rubislaw Church Centre. Enjoy messy play for ages 2 to 5. Wed & Fri 1:15-3pm. Call 07747 830386 b/n 9:30 & 12:15 or email rubislawplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk/ Kids Crew Playgroup.2yrs 8mnths. Mon, Wed, Fri mornings 9.30am12pm. Funded Places available.

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+ Two’s Group.Wed, Thurs 9.30-11am. Both groups at Ferryhill Community Centre, Albury Road, Ferryhill. Tel : 584118.

Playgroup @ Ruthrieston Comm Centre ‘Playshed’, Holburn St Mon-Thurs 9.15-11.15. fm 2 yrs 6 mnths. £3.50 per session - includes healthy snack. Call 572211 Children’s Football Tel Alison - 314669 Football for children fm age 21/2 up to P3.

Held at Kingswells and Airyhall. www.aberdeenfootballfun.co.uk NCT Waddling - Toddling Mon @ St Francis of Assisi Church, Deeside Dr, Mannofield 10-11.30, drop in group for mums to be, parents & carers of babies & toddlers birth - preschool

The 123 Group, Craigiebuckler Church Hall, Every Thurs 2-4pm, Adult and Child group; children fm babies up to the age of 3 are all welcome. Costs £8 per month, with lots of fun activities, crafts and healthy snacks provided for the children. For more information, please email the123group@yahoo.com, or call Pamela Morrison 07762481757 Aberdeen Dolphin Swimming Club Swim School for children fm 4 years old.

Lessons at Hazlehead & Hazlewood Pools.

Coaching for children who would like to train and swim competitively.

Contact Louise Lindsay (membership secretary) on 596709 for more info.

South Holburn Church Parent and Toddler Group E-mail: fmdfindon@aol.com www.nct.org.uk/in-your-area/aberdeen/W2T Parents with babies and toddlers aged Queen’s Cross Parent & Toddler Group Queens Cross Church Mon 9.30-11.30 Children 0 - 3 are invited to join us to meet other 0-4 & their grown-ups are very welcome. £1.50 parents ove a cup of tea or coffee and play with your child in a welcoming, childGaelic Parent & Child Group friendly setting. Thursday mornings 9.15 Gilcomstoun Primary School Mon, Wed & Fri - 11.15am. during school terms.

9.15-11.30. You don’t have to speak Gaelic to attend. Mairi Morley 07900 337122, e : gaelic@aberdeencity.gov.uk.

Singing Tots 6mths - 3 yrs Mon 945-1015 & 1045 -1115 Rubislaw Church Centre phone or text : 07745 924449 info@singingtots.org /www.singingtots.org Toddler Time : Wed 09:15–11:15 term time. Friendly, welcoming group for parents & children aged 0-4. Cost 50 pence, inc snacks & refreshments New Life International Church, Leadside Road, AB25 1TW Michelle - 07808 932 907 Ruthrieston West Church Twos Group Fri 9.45 - 11.00 ( During term time) Age 1year 10 months + £2.50 per child per session. For more information phone Lynne on 01224 314692 Teeny Beats Fun singalong with musical instruments.

Meets on a Tuesday 2pm - 3pm during term time at Rubislaw Church Centre.

For children aged 0 to 5 years. £2 per session discounted rate for additional children. For further information contact Margaret 587144 or Caroline 566141

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Rubislaw Playgroups

Rubislaw Church Centre, 1 Beaconsfield Place, Aberdeen AB15 4AB

Call : 07747 830386 between 9.30am & 1215pm for more info or to arrange a visit.

Or contact us by email rubislawplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk Registered Scottish Charity No : SC002911

Toddlers : Birth to 2 years Wed 9.30-11am

2’s Group : 2 years Tues 9.30-11am

Playgroup : 2 yrs 6mths to school age Messy Play : Mon-Fri am 2 years-to school age Choose days to Fri 1.15-3pm suit you. Funded Must be places available. accompanied by Parent/carer an adult duties required.

After School Football - Session 2012-2013 Airyhall Community Centre Wednesday 1.30-2.15 Pre School Plus 3.30-4.15 P1/2 4.15-5.00 P1/2

Thursday 9.30-10.00 1.30-2.00 2.00-2.30 3.30-4.15 4.15-5.00 5.00-5.45

kids groups

To book places contact Alison

Girls Brigade : Meet Tues in Queens Cross Church Hall Explorers P1-3 : 5pm-6.30pm Juniors P4-7 : 6pm-7.30pm Brigaders S1-6 : 6pm-8pm Morag Pirie - 01358-742621 Girls Brigade : Are you in P1-P3? Looking for some fun? Then come and join us we meet every Thurs @ South Holburn Church, Holburn St. Tel : Lesley Bills - 01224596596 Rainbows, Brownies, Guides tel : 01224 638685 for your nearest group Beavers, Cubs, Scouts : tel : 01224 208426 for your nearest group Boys Brigade HQ : tel : 01224 644400 for your nearest group 17th Aberdeen Cub Scouts : Thurs @ 1800h Scout Hall, Ruthrie Terr Tel Jacqui Duncan : 07703 435 251 or email : jacqui4bs@hotmail.co.uk

Tiny Tots Pre School Pre School P1/2 P1/2 P3/4

Friday 4.15-5.00

McLeod on 314669

Girls

Places can now be booked for Session 2012-13 starting in August.

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Choi Kwang Do : Inchgarth Community Centre Garthdee Mond 4.45-5.45 Thurs 6-7pm Tel Claire - 746778 After School Bridge classes : Wed at The Bridge Club 14 Rubislaw Terrace P6-7 - Anytime fm 3.00-4.30.

S1-6 - Anytime fm 3.00-5.30 , Sally Reid : 01224 - 322719 ATC 107 Squadron Open to new members, male & female aged 13 – 16. Also looking for enthusiastic adult staff, male & female to join the team., Prince Charles Cadet Centre, Albury Road, Ferryhill, Aberdeen Mon & Weds 19.00 - 21.30. Tel. 01224 590679 www.107aircadets.org.

Highland Dancing Classes Is your child interested in starting a new hobby, Highland Classes are available at Craigiebuckler Church and Danscentre through Carolanne Sinclair . Open to all levels of experience, with beginners classes starting at aged 5 & over. Contact Carolanne directly on 07972104774 or by email at sinclair_

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carolanne@yahoo.com New class after the summer at Mannofield Church on Wed afternoons.

Fun Kids Yoga Airyhall Community Centre Tues 4-4.30pm (4-7 yrs) & 4.30-5pm (8-13 yrs) Call 07967 647 220 or go to www. louisayoga.co.uk Youth Hockey Coaching Tuesday evenings 5.15pm-6.30pm from September to March for children from P4 to S4. Coaching provided by Gordonians Hockey Club at RGC astroturf pitches on Countesswells Road. Children from all schools are welcome. More details are available at www.gordonianshockey.com

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Music Theatre Live Entertainment Thursday, May 17: Beyond It Promotions presents The Xcerts, with Murray MacLeod on lead vocals and guitar, Jordan Smith on backing vocals and bass and Tom Heron on backing vocals and drums, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel : 01224 641122 Every Saturday: Creative Kids, sponsored by Argus Care, in the Lemon Tree Lounge, Aberdeen, doors open 12pm, activities from 12.30pm to 2.30pm.

Friday, May 18: A new show celebrating the amazing musical legacy of Pink Floyd Brit Floyd: A Foot in the Door – the Best of Pink Floyd Live, includes the full 23-minute showstopping rendition of Echoes, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Saturday, May 12: Seventy-five minute behind the scenes tour at Aberdeen’s iconic Edwardian landmark, His Majesty’s Theatre, in HMT at 10.30am.

Friday, May 18: Following their extensive tour at the end of last year, Leeds-based indie rockers The Pigeon Detectives kick off their summer early with on a short tour of seaside towns, including The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7pm.

Saturday, May 12: A new full-length touring show from the acclaimed star if BBC2’s Stewart Lee’s Comedy Vehicle, Stewart Lee: Carpet Remnant World, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Saturday, May 12: Recreating The Eagles music with reverence, excitement and a new stage show are The Ultimate Eagles, The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Sunday, May 13: A show of pure nostalgia, Ladies of Country UK tour 2012 features American sweetheart Jeannie C Riley, Ireland’s Patsy Cline, Queen of Country Sandy Kelly and Sarah Jory, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Sunday, May 13: Widely regarded as one of the best singer songwriters and performers in the business James Grant, performs music from the heart that will move the soul, accompanied on harmonica by Fraser Spiers, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Tuesday and Wednesday, May 15 and 16: Va Va Voom presents Donald Far’s Yer Tardis, a whirlwind adventure through time as three strangers get the chance to rewrite local history, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 7pm.

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Saturday, May 19: Stars of BBC1’s The Magicians and winners of the Wolf Magic Awards: Best Comedy Illusionists, twisted warlocks Barry & Stuart, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Sunday, May 20: A cappella stars The Magnets are one of the must-see acts on the current British music scene, described as ‘sixman sound machine’, bringing their glorious harmonies and jaw-dropping beatboxing for the first time to The Lemon Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7pm.

Sunday, May 20: Waterstones present Look Who’s Talking: Crime Panel with Scots thriller writers Stuart MacBride and Christopher Brookmyre chatting about their work including MacBride’s most recent book Birthdays for the Dead and Brookmyre’s latest novel, When the Devil Drives, not officially on sale until June, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7pm.

Tuesday, May 22: Show + Tell presents John Peel’s Shed, by John Osborne, who won a box of records on John Peel’s Radio One show in 2002 which took him eight years to listen

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Music Theatre Live Entertainment

to and then write this five-star ode to radio, those records and anyone who’s ever sought solace in wireless, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 7pm.

Tuesday, May 22: DFC presents Newton Faulkner, an over-14s gig only; U16s must be accompanied by an adult 18, in The Lemon Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Tuesday, May 22 to Saturday, June 2: Starring Amy Lennox, Ray Quinn and Led Dennis, the Best Musical 2011 Olivier Award winning Legally Blonde the Musical comes to His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm, with 2pm Thursday and 2.30pm Saturday matinees.

Wednesday, May 23: A Scottish musical group formed in 2007 by singer/song-writer Louis Abbott and based in Glasgow, Admiral Fallow write and perform orchestral indie folk-pop, in The Lemon Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm Thursday, May 24: It was no surprise that We Were Promised Jetpacks landed the Best Live Act award at the Scottish Alternative Music Awards at the start of March and their acclaimed new album In The Pit Of The Stomach proves just what a fully-fledged a rock band they have become – check them out in The Lemon Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 8pm.

in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Friday, May 25: Fat Hippy Records present Thrashist Regime, Bonesaw, Cleric and Semperfi plus one more act to be announced, in The Lemon Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 8pm.

Saturday, May 26: Forty-two years on, local favourites, Hedgehog Pie return with a mix of traditional, self-penned and new arrangements of close harmony tunes, in The Lemon Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Sunday, May 27: With brilliant young guitarist Ian Watt and conductor Garry Walker, Aberdeen Sinfonietta perform SaintSaëns’ Suite Algérienne, Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez and Brahms’ Second Symphony, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Sunday, May 27: An award winning leader in his own right, virtuoso trombonist Dennis Rollins has played at the forefront of UK jazz, funk and pop for 25 years, performing with such stars as Maceo Parker, Courtney Pine and The Brand New Heavies, but his latest project is the Velocity Trio, is a brilliant marriage of refined contemporary jazz arrangements with simmering funk grooves in The Lemon Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Thursday, May 24: Theatre Tours International Ltd presents Shylock, starring Guy Masterton returning to Aberdeen with his latest one-man show, inspired by the character from Shakespeare’s A Merchant of Venice which was very well received both at the Edinburgh Festival last year, and the initial UK tour, in The Lemon Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 7pm.

Friday, May 25: The UK’s No1 Buddy Holly Marc Robinson and star of the West End Buddy John-Simon Rawlings as The Big Bopper in Buddy Holly – A Legend Reborn, Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

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HADDO COUNTRY PARK TARVES, ELLON SUNDAY 27th MAY 2012 SPONSORED DOG WALK from 10.30am ACTIVITIES, FUN DOG SHOWS & FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY FROM 12.30pm Check-in for Sponsored Dog Walk from 10.00am Registration for Fun Dog Shows from 10.00am - 12.15pm        

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41

Muriel’s Puzzle Pages

Calcudoku

Pictograms

Fill each cell with a number x12 from 1-6. No number can be repeated in any row or column. The numbers in the heavily outlined set of squares (cages) must combine in any order to produce the target number in the top corner, using only the mathematical operator specified: +, -, x or /. Numbers can be repeated within a cage, but not in the same row or column.

4

3

4 words

MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE

2 words

POOLE 8 words

44 p

CODEWORD

21

Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a different number between 1 and 26.

The codes for three letters are shown. Once you have filled these throughout the grid you can start guessing words and reveal other letters. As you find the letters enter them in the box below.

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t : 01224 - 318561

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Muriel’s Puzzle Pages NUMBER CRUNCHER

Easy Sudoku

1

Easy

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23 25 ©Puzzlepress.co.uk

Harder Sudoku

Hard Looking for a

Relaxed Atmosphere Personal Attention Wedding Speciality

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Saturday 9am-1pm CLOSED THURSDAY

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

Across 1. Ounces in six stone (4) 4. One ninth of 14 Across (4) 7. One sixth of 12 Across (2) 8. 7 Across plus one tenth of 7 Across (2) 9. 14 Across plus 15 Down minus 88 (5) 12. 13 Across plus 20 Down minus 21 Across (3) 13. Degrees in a circle (3) 14. 10 Down plus nine (5) 15. 5 Down multiplied by eight (3) 16. One third of 24 Across (3) 18. 270 squared plus 117 (5) 21. Yards in eight fathoms (2) 23. Ten per cent of 12 Across (2) 24. 50 squared minus 21 Across (4) 25. 4 Across minus 1671 (4) Down 1. 6 Down plus five (4) 2. Days in September (2) 3. 2 Down plus 19 Down plus 20 Down minus 23 Down (3) 4. 12 Across plus 20 Down plus three (3) 5. Square root of 2401 (2) 6. 15 Across multiplied by five (4) 9. 266 squared minus 29 (5) 10. 13 Across multiplied by 20 Down (5) 11. 184 squared plus 131 (5) 15. 16 Across multiplied by four (4) 17. Minutes in six days (4) 19. Square root of 92416 (3) 20. 14 squared (3) 22. 21 Across multiplied by four (2) 23. Square root of 3249 (2)

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SOLUTIONS Children’s Page Solutions ...

Crossword Across: Taxi Stripe Liberty Central Down: Apple Skyscraper Subway Donuts missing numbers from bottom up:

17 14 31 2 8 Number grid from left to right 5, 7 4 1, 2 1 1, 9 4 7

Hard

NUMBER CRUNCHER

Pictograms 1. Room for one more 2. Town centre 3. In for a penny, in for a pound Easy

44

Calcudoku

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CUMMING FIRE & SECURITY

20 Aquithie Road, Kemnay 01467 643917 Email cfs.ltd@dial.pipex.com FREE ADVICE & QUOTATIONS / EVENING SURVEYS AVAILABLE We pride ourselves on value for money Intruder & Fire Alarm Systems We specialise in Wireless and Wired Intruder Alarm Systems,

Fire Alarm Systems, Fire Extinguishers, CCTV, Door Entry Systems, Fire Risk Assessments and Fire Extinguisher Training.

We fit External Electric Sockets for Garden Tools and Garden & Christmas Lighting.

Lights and Heating for Greenhouses, Sheds and Summer Houses.

Our shop in Aquithie Road, Kemnay stocks a large variety of light bulbs, including 60w/100w bulbs

For Peace of Mind at Home or Work .....

CUMMING FIRE & SECURITY .....Call Us Now 01467 - 643917

D.A.W.G.S Dog Action Working Group Scotland

D.A.W.G.S finds loving homes for dogs whose owners can no longer take care of them

For further information contact:DAWGS on 01224 208989 or visit www.dawgs.co.uk 6 Whitemyres Holdings, Lang Stracht, Aberdeen.

margaret@mwaitemortgages.com

June Hodge T: 07715 454 165

junehodge@btinternet.com

INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE ADVICE

Moving Home First Time buyer Remortgage Buy to let Mortgage

With a combined career of over 30 years in Financial Services we have a wealth of experience in advising and meeting the needs of our clients Our main aim is to provide a flexible and personal service with evening and weekend appointments if required.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up the repayments on your mortgage.

Please call or email to arrange a mutually convenient time to meet.

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

H0123702

If you can no longer take care of your dog, we can help!

Margaret Waite T: 07764 168 873

45

Local Events Diary Art Evening : Sunday 13th May 2012 Craigiebucklar 123 Group

Spring Fayre Sat

12th

May

2-4pm Airyhall Community Centre SMALL LOCAL BUSINESSES SELLING JEWELLERY, CRAFTS,

CARDS, TOYS, CANDLES, SOAP, HAIR ACCESSORIES, CAKES AND MUCH MORE

Entry ÂŁ2 Raffle, Lucky dips and Bottle Stalls too.

The annual Art Evening hosted by The Rotary Club of Aberdeen Deeside will take place on Sunday 13th May at The Marcliffe at Pitfodels at 7pm.

The popularity of this evening continues to grow and we are delighted that local artist David Newbatt has offered to paint and then auction the original, unique painting for charity. David has spent the last 29 years, mainly in the Aberdeen area, devoting his artistic career to working with children, adolescents and young adults with special needs.

We aim to raise money and awareness for much needed causes. The proceeds from this years’ event will go to local charities, the main beneficiary being Nature Nurture.

Several local companies have again made this evening possible by providing sponsorship and raffle prizes, others by giving their time and energy.

For more information: Please contact ros.rotary@btinternet.com or visit the website www.aberdeendeesiderotary.org.

Seafield Bowling Club Cromwell Gardens, Aberdeen AB15 4UF Want an enjoyable new hobby?

Friendship? Fun? Competition?

Open to men, women and juniors.

Coaching is availble for beginners.

The season started mid-April...

21st Annual Animal Blessing Service Craigiebuckler Church Hall Aberdeen on Sunday 10th June 2012 at 3pm All animals with their human companions welcome For more information please contact me at: forrester.m1@sky.com 46

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/2011 12:09 Page 1

Flowers for you by

10% off

Why not drop in today to take advantage of our 10% discount on all floral requirements including wedding flowers Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm

66 Beechgrove Terrace

10% off on production of this coupon from 08 May 2012 to 30 June 2012. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other advertised offers.

66 Beechgrove Terrace Aberdeen AB15 5HH Tel : 01224 633877 Aberdeen Email: info@shirleymunroflorist.co.uk Web: shirleymunroflorist.co.uk

AB15 5HH

WANT TO LOOK YOUR BEST Tel: 01224 633877 Craft Fayre in aid FOR SUMMER?! of Banff Coast Email: info@shirleymunroflorist.co.uk BODYMAX CLASS Summerhill Church Festival 16th/17th Web: shirleymunroflorist.co.uk (Grassy area directly opposite, weather permitting) WED : 6.30-7.30pm June at Delgatie FRI : 6.00-7.00pm Castle - Fantastic GET RESULTS WITHOUT STEPPING FOOT IN A GYM! event which Fun, full body workout class that targets helped raise £750 all areas to boost your metabolism, health, fitness and energy levels. in 2011 for a very PLEASE CONTACT LEE 07510 054 788 worthy cause. www.leedonaldpersonaltraining.com

Design

Supply

Exercise Class Cults WRI Thursday 10:000-11:00am





Meet with friends

Build Strength & bone density 

Have fun and feel great £3 per person per class

To book or further information contact: Laura Walker M: 0777 302 1851 Email: laura@laurawalkerlimited.co.uk

Installation

Competitive Prices We Take Pride In a Quality Finish Showroom By Appointment Only

www.aquaticsoul.co.uk Tel : 01224 733402

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

47