August 2015

August 2015

island news Edition 38

EE FR

& ADVERTISER

Summer in the Hebrides Inside Our pictorial of community events

What’s On Wildlife Archaeology

ERISKAY COMMUNITY SHOP

Come and see for yourself We are proud to say that we support many local craft producers that supply us with:

...and our usual round-up of local news and views

Fancy Jewellery

Knitted socks and hats

Harris tweed bags Wallets and much more

Local scenery cards Calenders

NEW

gift shop area NOW OPEN

Tel: 01878 720236 Email: eriskayshop@gmail.com

2

island news & ADVERTISER - August 2015 Issue 38

Letters to the editor Scottish Government should close ferry contract off now Having retired from commercial life which involved on a couple of occasions dealing with Serco and government tenders, I have sympathy for the Calmac workforce and the residents of the islands affected by the current strike action.

What is very clear to me is that both sides (the unions and Calmac) have boxed themselves into a corner, in part aided by the Scottish Government which now protests that because of European Law it is bound by the tender process which, it is hoped, will save the government a considerable amount of money. This will be at the expense of Calmac employees and the diminished service that Serco will provide to many thousands of islanders and the islands’ economy should they win the tender process The Outer Hebrides and other islands currently have a trusted ferry service operator, committed historically to providing the islands with its lifeline to the mainland.

Serco, as reported in the media, have a poor track record in running many businesses including prisons and transporting prisoners to court. The list is far wider than this and their success at winning contracts from government or industry is that they have provided the lowest cost in the tendering process.

Future Ferry operations driven entirely by bottom line profit will create a culture that is completely foreign to sustaining island life.

The Outer Hebrides’ future requires an even better ferry service than we have at the moment particularly on southern routes and this can only be realised by investment rather than providing the lowest cost option which will mean a deterioration in the services provided.

The problem will be very painful in the very near future unless the Scottish Government closes the contract off and compensates Serco for the cost it has already incurred in preparing its tender. The Freedom of Information Act does not allow for commercial, price sensitive information to be disclosed so there is a way out for the Scottish Government in accepting a tender that is a higher cost/subsidy for them.

The issue is a very simple one - is the Scottish government prepared to invest in the future economy of the islands, or will it spin the roulette wheel and gamble with a low cost option for the Outer Hebrides future and development?

It is inevitable that the strikes and disruption will escalate if members of the Scottish Government keep their heads buried in the sand and tell us that the process has to be followed to the end.

Let’s hope that Nicola Sturgeon will spend more time in dealing with this important issue on behalf of the people who voted for her, rather than trying to put the skids under David Cameron about fox hunting in the Westminster parliament.

What is required urgently is some positive action by politicians rather than platitudes, giving a clear commitment to the Islands by providing an upgraded future ferry service on some routes and finding a way around the current crisis. This may require removing the sword of Damocles that is Serco from the negotiations.

Frank Harris Locheport, North Uist

Appeal for isles schools to help fight heart disease I am writing to ask you and your readers to join me in supporting the British Heart Foundation’s (BHF) Schools events. You can take part in physical activity that is fun, rewarding and heart healthy. The activities will raise money for your school, as well as contribute to lifesaving research into heart disease.

I am urging schools in Scotland to take part in a sponsored Skipathon or game of Ultimate Dodgeball in aid of the fight against heart disease.

These events promote the importance of maintaining a healthy heart through regular exercise whilst raising funds for the BHF’s lifesaving work into the fight against heart disease. The scheme also allows schools and youth groups to keep 20% of the money they have raised, which they can put towards new equipment and resources to benefit their children.

Last year, BHF’s school events raised over an amazing £711,221.

This year, we want to top this total and with your help we can.

Heart and circulatory conditions are responsible for nearly 15,000 deaths in the Scotland each year, that’s over 40 people every single day. We are asking people of the Scotland to sign up today and help the BHF to continue to save lives.

To find out more and to sign-up, visit bhf.org.uk/schools-event

Beth Tweddle Olympic gymnast

INBRIEF INBRIEF

Harris mountain festival coming up

Clear your diary for the 2015 Isle of Harris Mountain Festival between Saturday 12 and Saturday 19 September.

forester James Ogilvie will speak about his recent completion of the “Seven Summits� – climbing the highest mountain on each of the seven continents around the world.

The programme includes a range of glorious guided walks led by the North Harris Ranger Service; a talk by nature writer Jim Crumley about his latest book The Eagle’s Way; award-winning natural history photographer Laurie Campbell will be returning to run a set of photography workshops and present another collection of his work; and mountaineer and

There will also be many other activities and events through the week, delivered by partner organisations, including Segway Trekking, rock climbing, surfing, and sea kayaking.

More information at www.harrismountainfestival .com, and keep an eye on Facebook and Twitter for updates.

Exhibition extended at The Cowshed

Summer Machair. Rebecca Cotton.

Three Uist artists are extending their Art on the Map exhibition at The Cowshed, Baleshare, North Uist until the end of the summer.

Marnie Keltie, Gina MacDonald and Rebecca Cotton invite you to view their work between 11am and 4pm daily. (Follow the signs to the sculpture and turn just before the causeway).

Fund-raiser for Uist Skiff project Irresistible local soup and baking are on offer at Carinish Hall on Saturday September 5 to raise funds for the Uist Coastal Rowing Club (UCRC).

The event is between 12 and 3pm, and includes a home-baking stall and raffle.

Robert and Cheryl Taylor of Grimsay are leading UCRC in building a 22’ St Ayles skiff- a long racing boat with four crew and a coxswain.

Robert said: “We are well on the way to completing our skiff Living the Dream and plan to launch it this year. We need to raise some money to kit out the boat with essential items.�

The Taylors invite all in the community to become involved. Contact 01870 603754.

COLLECTIONS FROM ARGOS, B&Q, DFS AND ALL MAJOR STORES Click and Collect Drop Offs and Collections Uist, Skye, Kyle, Inverness Reliable, Friendly Service

!!

" ! ! # "

$ %&'(% )%*(*+ %((*,%&,''..." ! " "

August 2015 Issue 38 - island news & ADVERTISER

Young local family set to take over North Uist pub A young couple with roots in North Uist have bought the Westford Inn on the island’s west side.

Eilidh and Colin Murray and baby Struan.

3

Westford Inn.

C

olin and Eilidh Murray will shortly be moving to Uist from Glasgow with their 11 month old son, Struan to reopen the pub.

Eilidh’s parents are Angus and Ann MacNab of Scolpaig.

At the moment, Colin, 43, and Eilidh, 35, both work for Lloyd’s Banking Group.

They will bring plenty of hospitality experience to their new business, with Colin having worked for the brewer Fuller, Smith and Turner in

London, and running bars for Glasgow Caledonian University, and Eilidh undertaking waitressing and hotel work.

Colin said: “We are both delighted and extremely excited to be taking over the reins of Westford Inn. “We still have a lot of work to do before we open fully but hope to reinstate the Inn to its previous position as an integral part of the community.

“We look forward to welcoming all in the very near future.”

Military might on North Uist beach The undulating Baleshare skyline was broken last month by the appearance of a military launcher on the machair close to the beach.

16 Regiment Royal Artillery were on exercise at the time, but along with Hebrides Range operator QinetiQ remained tight-lipped about the equipment.

16 Regiment operates the Army’s only short-range Rapier surface to missile system, a 24h, all-weather guided missile system against fast jets, helicopters, unmanned systems and cruise missiles.

“It’s a pity it can’t be used to take out rabbits,” quipped one local crofter.

Kenary

BOAT FOR Benbecula SALE 18’ Keel 20’ Overall 8’ Beam Larch on oak.

Well maintained.

10hp Saab Diesel.

£2,500 ono

Enquiries to

01870 603367 or 01631 562952

Shetland

EE FR

island news & ADVERTISER

DistributionArea

Sumburgh Head

E

Orkney

SW

Tiree

is the FREE

Monthly Newspaper published in Uist for the Scottish Islands

S

Island News & Advertiser

Room 7, East Camp, Balivanich, Isle of Benbecula, HS7 5LA Inverness

Skye

Newsdesk 01870 602151 editor@islandnewsandadvertiser.co.uk

Coll

Mull

Oban

Colonsay

Islay

VISIT

IN&A’s web site for more loc news dailyal

www.islandnewDesign ndadvertiser.co.uk TimsaMason Managing Editor

Canna

Barra

& ADVERTISER

Stornoway

Harris Uist

Kirkwall

SE

Lewis

island news

Glasgow

Advertising 01870 602151 ads@islandnewsandadvertiser.co.uk

MANAGING EDITOR Susy Macaulay Susy Macaulay.........................................

DESIGN Editor’s Assistant Chloe Hogg Tim Mason................................................

4

island news & ADVERTISER - August 2015 Issue 38

No more 99s as Sheila hangs up her scoops She’s something of an institution in the Southern Isles, but her cheery face and her green and white van are absent from Uist and Barra community events for the first time in three decades this summer.

S

heila McIntosh has served an estimated 126,000 scoops of home-made ice cream over the years, come wind or weather, at the North and South Uist cattle shows and Highland Games, and Barra’s Heaval Race and Fisherman’s Mass- not to mention on the highways and by-ways from Berneray to Eriskay.

When her van packed in earlier this year, Sheila reluctantly decided to hang up her scoops and retire from Barra to Glasgow to be nearer family.

Crestfallen is an understatement to describe the reaction of her public.

Sheila’s ice cream, home-made to a closely guarded secret recipe, was the highlight of many an afternoon for kids young and old.

She still loves it herself, and is hoping to make one more massive load of her favourite vanilla and raspberry variety to stock her freezer in Glasgow.

Sheila comes from Stepps in Lanarkshire, and although she was Dux every year at her school in Coatbridge, had no ambition other than rearing a family.

But politics and a passion for Scottish independence intervened, and from 1964 to 1979 Sheila and her husband Angus, who stood as Parliamentary candidate in Springburn in 1974, worked tirelessly for the Sheila as a young SNP. After the Independence political activist in Glasgow.

Referendum of 1979, the couple decided the SNP was getting nowhere and it was time to make a change.

With their three young children Fiona, Rona and Kenneth, they took off for Barra where they had been holidaying over the years and had made many friends.

Sheila at work in her van.

They alighted upon the Gift Shop and Bake House in Brevig, and before long were turning out rolls, bread, pies, sausages and bridies.

The enterprising couple learned their craft from James Chapman Butchers in Wishaw and took to it so well that eventually they had to stop making loaves.

“People said they would sit down and eat the whole loaf themselves, so for the sake of their waistlines, they wouldn’t buy it any more,” said Sheila.

But the rolls, apple pies and French sticks continued unabated from the bakery until Angus’s death in 2000.

Meanwhile, the couple also bought the café in Castlebay and named it Kisimul.

At the suggestion of a friend from Stornoway, ice cream was introduced there, and then taken to the streets and outdoor events.

Sheila said: “The bakery and café were a real family affair. Ken and Rona became good at making rolls, and Fiona helped with the ice cream.

“When it was time to go out on the road, they all helped.”

Sheila soon learned about the buying habits of her customers.

“Mint and chocolate chip were what everyone

wanted at the shows, but in the shop they went for vanilla and raspberry.

“I have just enjoyed it all so much, meeting people and driving all round the islands.”

As IN&A went to print a possible buyer for the business had come forward. But for the moment, the chimes of the Skater’s Waltz and the green and white van are noticeable by their absence as a drought in Sheila’s home-made ice cream afflicts the Southern Isles.

Never mind the weather. Customers were always happy to queue for Sheila’s ice cream.

Tributes paid to retiring Leverburgh RNLI staff Two RNLI officers have been honoured for their dedicated work in setting up and manning Leverburgh lifeboat station.

Angus B MacNeil MP Constituency Office, 31 Bayhead Street, Stornoway Isle of Lewis, HS1 2DU

Available for surgeries All enquiries welcome

John and Murdo with Leverburgh RNLI Honorary President Hamish Taylor.

Tel 01851 702272 E-Mail: angus.macneil.mp@parliament.uk

RNLI age limits dictate that the two officers, John MacLean and Murdo MacAulay (both from Strond) must

now step down from their roles as Operations Manager and Deputy Launching Authority respectively.

John and Murdo played a vital role in the setting up of the station in 2012.

A reception was held last month in the station for both men at which they were thanked for their wisdom, their work and their commitment and presented with framed photographs of the lifeboat on exercise with the search and rescue helicopter, as mementos of their roles.

Their colleagues paid tribute to the ‘impressive range of skills and experience which they have willingly used to make the establishment and operation of the station a remarkable success.’

Christopher Ross of Finsbay, previously the second Deputy Launching Authority has been promoted to the role of Operations Manager.

Neil MacAulay and John MacInnes, both of Leverburgh, are the new Deputies.

New volunteers are now needed, so if anyone would like to find out more about volunteering with Leverburgh Lifeboat Station, whether it be as potential crew, for shore duties or as fundraisers, then please contact the station on leverburgh@rnli.org.uk or speak to Christopher Ross.

Since the station was established, the lifeboat has been called out on 57 occasions.

August 2015 Issue 38 - island news & ADVERTISER

5

End of a journey for Hercules A headstone now marks the spot in Langass Woods, North Uist where the world’s most famous bear rests for all time.

I

Piped through the woods by Calum Anthony Beaton and 10 year old Kevin Beaton, Andy and Maggie unveiled the headstone surrounded by around 30 members of the public.

Hercules’ remains were earlier removed to Langass Woods from their initial resting place in the grounds of Andy and Maggie’s home in Clackmannanshire.

When the couple decided to downsize, they wanted to move Hercules to somewhere his memory would be cherished.

Hercules went on the run in Benbecula for 24 days in 1980 while filming an advert. He was eventually found half-starved in Balemartin, North Uist.

Despite crofters feeling a certain alarm, Hercules had hurt no-one during his escapade.

Islanders flocked to donate gallons of milk

n a simple ceremony, Andy and Maggie Robin unveiled a memorial stone for Hercules the grizzly bear, their beloved pet, Andy’s wrestling partner and star of many a movie and advert.

Local pipers Calum Anthony Beaton and 10 year old Kevin Beaton accompanied Andy and Maggie to the unveiling.

to him to aid his recovery.

Bringing his remains to Langass to lie close to the life-size wooden statue erected in his honour by the North Uist Woodland Trust was the right thing to do, Andy said.

He said: “This is where he belongs, the only place for him.

“He never let you down. He was a wild grizzly bear, and he never touched a hair on anyone’s head, he was a big baby, a gentle giant.

“Being here it feels as if he hasn’t passed away, he’s still here with all Andy and Maggie after the unveiling. you nice people.” is stamped on the island and his folklore will last, Maggie told the crowd: ““It’s the completion of grow arms and legs, and children will sit on the a circle for Herc, the end of a journey. stone and hear all about him. It’s like a peace “It feels right that he should be here. His fame now for all of us.”

Warnings of more scams circulating in the Western Isles Comhairle Trading Standards officers have warned of yet more imaginative scams circulating on the islands. fact that they are sending money or sending bank account details to someone they don’t know, Trading Standards warned.

One local example which has been circulating in the Western Isles is where consumers have been targeted by overseas inheritance or banking scam letters. The sender claims to work with a bank or a government agency abroad, and states that they are aware of a deceased client or an individual with the same surname as the recipient. The letter will claim that there is a dormant account with a substantial balance

They’ve found scammers targeting victims with bogus lottery winnings, get rich quick and advance fee schemes, clairvoyants, investment, home working and pyramid selling schemes.

Sometimes scammers will send catalogues selling cheaper goods for expensive prices however they will claim that a purchase will entitle you to a monetary prize.

Scammers know how to “dazzle” minds, where the victim will become enthused and direct their attention on the prize not on the

that can be accessed by you as you have the same surname as the account holder. You are asked to keep the matter confidential. The sender will then ask you to contact them usually by phone or e mail and from there you will be asked to initially send small amounts of money for processing fees etc. to transfer

the funds. There will always be problems with accessing the money and the victim will be asked for further payments. The amounts requested will become increasingly larger until the victim eventually realises they have been scammed, often having lost out on thousands of pounds.

Top Tips Top Tips Top Tips Top Tips

If you haven’t bought a ticket – you

can’t win You shouldn’t have to pay anything to

get a prize!

Don’t be rushed. Resist pressure to

make a decision right away.

If you think you or a family member is

receiving scam mail, you can report it to CNES Trading Standards at 01851 822694 or to the Royal Mail. email scam.mail@royalmail.com or report your concerns by calling 03456 113 413.

If you have received items of mail you believe to be from fraudsters please send them, with a covering letter to: FREEPOST SCAM MAIL

POLICE REPORT On June 28 the emergency services attended a property in North Uist.

Numerous further emergency calls were unnecessarily made and a 46 year old woman was subsequently reported to the Procurator Fiscal.

Early learning and childcare will help young children gain vital language and learning skills, improve their social development and help them do better at school when the time comes. It will also support parents to work, train or study.

Between 4th – 5th July damage was caused to a window outside Lovats Shop, Balivanich. Police are appealing for anyone with any information to contact Police Scotland on 101.

On July 1 police attended a disturbance at an address in South Uist. A 39 year old man was arrested and a report submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

On July 12 police attended a disturbance at a property in Benbecula. Following this incident a 22 year old man was arrested for an assault. A report was submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

On July 5 following an incident in Benbecula a 28 year old man was arrested for drink driving and being in possession of a knife in a public place.

A report was submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

On July 17 a 17 year old youth was reported to the Procurator Fiscal for numerous road traffic offences.

Two-year-old children are eligible for 600 hours of free early learning and childcare if their parent or carer receives:

• • • • • • • • •

Income Support (IS) Job Seeker’s Allowance (income based) Any income related element of Employment and Support Allowance Incapacity or Severe Disablement Allowance State Pension Credit Child Tax Credit (CTC), but not Working Tax Credit and your income is less than £16,105* Both maximum CTC and maximum Working Tax Credit and your income is under £6,420* Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999* Universal Credit*

In addition, children aged two or over who are (or have been at any point since turning two) looked after by a local council, the subject of a kinship care or guardianship order are eligible. *This applies to children who have turned two on or after 1st March 2015.

The income thresholds for Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit can vary annually.

For more info visit earlylearningandchildcare.scot ask your health visitor or contact your local council.

6

island news & ADVERTISER - August 2015 Issue 38

Uist & Barra public transport services consultations this month The consultation process over what public transport services should be provided in Uist and Barra continue this month with meetings in Benbecula and Castlebay.

Help sought from Lewis to locate Canadian WW1 graves

Castlebay School Thursday 13 August 2.30pm to 7.00pm Sgoil Lionacleit Saturday 15 August 11am to 3pm Community members are asked to drop in to have their say in the next phase of the process where the requirements to be included in tender documents will be agreed.

The project, one of the first in Scotland to use ‘participatory budgeting’ placing the community at the heart of a procurement process, aims to deliver improved services and budget savings.

It is being delivered by a project team drawn from members of the Outer Hebrides Community Planning Partnership.

Partnership chair Cllr Angus Campbell said: “The Uist and Barra public transport project is using a completely new approach to the way services are commissioned. We hope that by putting the community at the heart of the process we can deliver better outcomes for people and better value for money for the tax payer.

“I strongly urge people to come along to the events and have their say. The drop in format means it shouldn’t take long to participate. Your views can make a real difference to the contract we finally put in place.”

Participants will be asked say what services they want, to where and when in the day they should be provided. This information coupled with the earlier consultation information and questionnaire findings will be used to define exactly what is required.

Participants will also be asked to rank types of services. The Comhairle has allocated a fixed sum of money for these services. In the event that providers can’t do everything asked for with the money available the ranking will ensure that the most important elements are provided.

When tenders are received by the Comhairle both price and the quality are scored. The scores are then combined. To reflect how important price or quality is in the contract a weighting is applied – for instance 80% price, 20% quality.

Participants will be asked to vote for which price quality ratio they want for this tender.

Importantly, participants will also be asked to decide which element of the quality evaluation, for example the timetable or the type of bus, is most important so this can be weighted accordingly.

Results from the previous consultation have been published on the Comhairle’s website:

cnesiar.gov.uk/consultations/2015/busuistbarra.asp

A

journey of close on 4,000 miles and expenditure of £2,500 has seen a Canterbury couple photograph and record for posterity the grave of almost every Canadian WW1 soldier buried in Scotland.

Almost, for three are still absent from their Far From Home study, and they are to be found in Lewis.

Diana Beaupre and Adrian Watkinson had the bad luck to arrive in Ullapool this Diana Beaupre and Adrian Watkinson. summer for the crossing to Stornoway and then on to Uist and Colonsay at the time of the CalMac strike.

They had to abandon their plans to visit the islands, and press on south to complete their odyssey.

Through the Island News & Advertiser website, they appealed for local people to help them record three graves in Lewis, one in Benbecula and one in Colonsay.

Alexander MacGillivray came forward from Benbecula, and Kevin Byrne from Colonsay, and to the couple’s delight, helped them complete those chapters of their study.

But they still need help to record the Canadian WW1 graves in the Sandwick, Dalmore and Crossbost cemeteries in Lewis.

Diana said: “We will send out a pack detailing exactly what we need to be done.

We make a donation of £25 in return, either to the person who carries out the work, to someone they chose to give it to, or to a local charity.”

The couple are both 70 and their Far From Home- A study of War Graves in the United Kingdom is their cherished

retirement project.

The impetus comes from Diana, who found out in 2001 that the person she thought was her father was not in fact her dad. He was a French-Canadian soldier who died in WW2.

The startling discovery set Diana on a course of study to help her understand her roots. She gained a First Class Honours degree from Canterbury Christ Church University in American and Canadian Studies, which included a study of the Canadian soldiers at the Shorncliffe camp during WW1.

Her passion for research then led Diana to creating her not-for-profit project to find, photograph and produce profiles for all the 3893 Canadian WW1 service men and women commemorated in graves and memorials in 853 locations in UK. The Scottish section of the venture saw the couple visit 161 locations in 26 days, heading up as far as Eday in Orkney, and down as far as Galloway.

Diana said: “We’re so grateful to Alexander and Kevin for the work they have done for us in Uist and Colonsay, and we’d be so happy if someone came forward to help us complete the Lewis end.”

Diana and Adrian can be contacted on 01277 454157 dbeaupre1944@hotmail.co.uk The website is canadianukgravesww1.co.uk

Project to establish who will get superfast broadband through BT The Scottish Government has told BT to confirm this autumn which areas will and will not get superfast broadband through the BT roll-out.

Your neighbours get superfast broadband but you don’t

BT has not yet told you if you will or will not get superfast broadband

The project is a response to the Scottish Rural Parliament’s broadband campaign.

Your have superfast broadband but it is still slow

Representatives from the Rural Parliament are meeting with the Scottish Government to consider further issues raised by their campaign.

The Parliament is still gathering evidence on the key issues ready to raise at this meeting.

They are asking members of the public with one or more of the following concerns to submit their evidence online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/broadbandevidence

The date for superfast broadband coming to your area has been moved back

Evidence gleaned from the Rural Parliament’s survey and campaign will be used to help those communities unable to access superfast broadband through BT to work with Community Broadband Scotland to identify alternative methods of accessing this essential service.

Meanwhile H&I MSP Rhoda Grant is writing to the Scottish Government, Connected Communities and Highlands and Islands Enterprise to find out what is happening with the Connected Communities network which serves parts of the Western Isles.

She will also be tabling some Parliamentary Questions on the matter.

Isles residents asked to capture the sounds of our shores People of the Western Isles are being asked to record their favourite seaside sounds as part of the ‘sounds of our shores’ project which is being run by the National Trust, National Trust for Scotland and the British Library this summer.

Sounds of the coastline around the Western Isles can be uploaded on to the first ever UK coastal sound map, hosted on the British Library website.

Musician, producer and founder member of Human League and Heaven 17, Martyn Ware, will be using the sounds recorded by the public to create a brand new piece of music for release in February 2016.

Dr Richard Luxmoore, Senior Nature Advisor from the National Trust for Scotland said: “The sounds of the coast clamour for our attention and leave an indelible impression on our hearts.”

Sounds can be recorded on a smart phone, tablet or handheld recorder, and uploaded to the map via the audioBoom website or app (they are both free and easy to use). The sounds will then appear on the map, which will be hosted on the British Library website.

The recordings should be a maximum of five minutes in length and images and words about the particular sound can be added.

The closing date for uploading sounds is Monday 21 September 2015.

At the end of the project all of the sounds that appear on the map will then be added to the British Library’s Sound Archive for future generations to hear.

To get involved in the project visit http://www.nts.org.uk/Site/Soun ds-of-our-Shores/Sounds-of-our-Shor es/. Participants will also be able to share their sounds on social media using the hashtag #shoresounds.

August 2015 Issue 38 - island news & ADVERTISER

7

Showing true grit for Ellie Six young men from Uist tested themselves to the very limit to raise funds for the 1Million Miles for Ellie campaign.

Michelle MacDonald with her eye-catching new car.

The Causeway to Causeway team at the start of their challenge.

The campaign was launched in June

by Ellie MacDonald’s family of Kyles, North Uist after she was tragically taken by cancer last year aged 23.

Kenneth Maclean, Seumas Boyle, Eoghan MacDonald, Sean Brady, AJ MacInnes and Scott Mackay, all in their late teens, decided to raise funds for the campaign with a 57 mile Causeway to Causeway walk on July 4.

They crossed the Eriskay causeway in the early hours, and headed north.

With the weather against them much of the time, including thunder and lightning all around them, by midnight, Kenneth and Seumas were the only two standing, using sticks to help them complete the final stages of the walk.

The lads raised £1700 from donations they collected in buckets from passers by on the road.

Including sponsorship the lads raised an astonishing £6,000 and counting.

Mounds of talc were used to keep their

feet dry as they plodded on and on.

And the cash got so wet it had to be dried out in the airing cupboard at Kyles.

Ellie’s dad Angus walked 18 miles of the way, and mum Michelle walked nine.

Ellie’s sister Sarah also joined the boys and hobbled through tears of agony to make it across Berneray causeway.

Michelle said: “Angus and I will never forget that day and what they did.

“With such passion and commitment it shows you can achieve anything. The boys aren’t even Ellie’s contemporaries, but they were inspired by her story and their friendship with Sarah to do something- I think they’ll stick to bake sales in future!”

Meanwhile Michelle is easy to spot in Uist with her eye-catching new car, decorated to raise awareness of the campaign.

Needing to change her car, she was offered one in ‘Karma Purple’ which instantly appealed as purple was Ellie’s favourite colour.

It wasn’t until graphic designer Lorraine

Grant urges Scottish Government to consider islanders unmet ferry needs H&I MSP Rhoda Grant (pictured left) visited Uist last month to hear islanders’ concerns.

Alongside broadband, ferry provision was at the top of their list, Ms Grant said.

She said: “What really strikes me is the Scottish Government is putting those services out to tender and they have no idea about the unmet need.

“My mailbox is full of letters and concerns from islanders who want to get on and off the island at short notice and just can’t get on to ferries.

“So how on earth can you put something out to

tender when you don’t know the level of service that’s required.

“If you privatise it, the public purse will pay through the nose for anything additional to the contract because you are pretty much stuck with the price the private provider gives you “The pilot run from Lochboisdale to Mallaig is a joke frankly, run less that 50% of the time it was supposed to.

“If that’s a pilot how can you possibly measure the need for that service?”

Ms Grant said the Scottish Government could have asked for a derogation against European legislation requiring them to put the

service out to tender.

She said: “Since the service was first put out to tender there have been changes in other areas where other governments have asked for derogations so that they don’t have to put out lifeline ferry services that are provided by the public sector, and other countries have got that derogation.

“Our government hasn’t asked for it. Had they asked for it and been refused, people would have understood they had no choice.

“The fact they are doing it and when you look at the way they have written the tender it almost appears they are encouraging someone

Burke of Hebridean Graphics in North Uist saw the car that the idea for its eye-catching livery came about.

Michelle said: “Lorraine was creating the logo and branding for the campaign, and she instantly saw the potential of the car.”

Lorraine used Ellie’s own handwriting, kisses and smiley face to decorate the car, and a butterfly motif symbolising Ellie’s strong but sensitive nature.

Lorraine and a helper secretly decorated the car at Ellie’s Day in Sollas on June 20, while Michelle was busy with the day.

Michell said: “It was a wonderful surprise. Everyone loves the car and comments on it.”

Fundraising events continue apace, with Richard Bramble hoping to kite-surf from Kyles to the Monach Isles towards the end of this month.

You can see what’s going on and fundraisers to sponsor at

uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ SomeoneSpecial/1millionmiles for Ellie.

like Serco to come in.

“CalMac are obviously trying to lower the costs of their overheads, pension, pay and conditions to try and make them more competitive because they know that Serco will come in with lower pay, lower conditions and that immediately allows them to undercut CalMac so it’s not true competition at all.

“CalMac cannot win on such an unlevel playing field.”

Cutting costs on the Clyde and Hebrides service was a false economy, Ms Grant warned.

She said: “A lot of those jobs are island jobs so that takes jobs out of the communities.

“So what they’re going to do is provide people with a worse service, but they’ll have to come in by the back door and support those communities.

“You’re much better going for a service that’s for the public, run by the public and supports the people who are delivering it.”

New North Uist primary construction on track The construction of the new North Uist primary school at Paible is on track for handover in a year’s time, according to Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.

A warm Hebridean welcome awaits you at

UIST’S FAVOURITE FAMILY RESTAURANT Delicious home-cooking all day Local produce used where possible Tea, coffee and cakes in the bistro

The part demolition of the secondary wing, Headmaster’s House and portable units at the back have allowed earthworks and foundations to proceed, and the school’s built footprint to be established.

Now the steelwork is underway and local contracts awarded for the many tasks associated with the construction.

The new school building and car park are planned for handover in July 2016, with a December handover for the remaining external work.

11am to 8pm Sundays Noon - 9pm Opening Hours

Balivanich, Benbecula HS7 5LA

Tel: 01870 603377

8

island news & ADVERTISER - August 2015 Issue 38

Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band News Anne Bird On 23rd and 24th June, during the school activity week, 17 pupils from Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band travelled to Stornoway on a visit to the Nicolson Institute.

There the band entertained pupils, staff and council representatives and shared the limelight with the Nicolson Institute Brass Band.

Later in the day they gathered on the pier to welcome home the Nicolson Institute girls’ football teams, seniors and under-15s. Both teams were winners at the North of Scotland Cups.

The band were entertained in the evening at a ceilidh organised by the Nicolson Music Department. Good fun was had by all.

After a comfortable night spent in the Hebridean Hostel the band were back in their kilts and off to play in Perceval Square. They played for Sgoil Lionacleit head teacher Miller MacDonald, delighting locals and visitors alike, and collected a few pounds for pipe band funds before heading back to Leverburgh for the ferry home.

Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band are very grateful to Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and The Nicolson Institute for making the trip possible. The pupils are grateful also to Donald Ban, Esther and Mrs Maclean for accompanying them on the trip and to John Daniel Peteranna at Westcoast Energee for helping with transport.

The band rounded off the school term with a rousing performance for pupils and parents at the school prize-giving.

Practice continues during the holidays in preparation for the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow on 15th August.

For the newer band members it will be their first visit to the Worlds, a spectacular international competition with a great family atmosphere and set to be a memorable trip for all.

Turn to page 11 for photos of the band in Stornoway.

Salar salmon is back Within seconds of word getting out that Loch Carnan smokehouse in South Uist was to open once again, good wishes started flooding in from around the globe.

N

ew owner Iain Macrury was bowled over.

It looked like the world hadn’t forgotten or lost its appetite for famous Salar flaky hot-smoked salmon.

Iain bought the smokehouse from its previous owners, Loch Duart last month, after the Sutherland-based fish farm operation closed it in March.

There had been issues of efficiency and cash flow, and even a hygiene scare three years ago. Some felt the product had never recovered from being rebranded with Loch Duart’s name.

But that is firmly in the past, says Iain, who wants to bring a “back to basics approach to the business, where heritage, tradition and quality are the key.”

Iain, 44, has been investing in efficiency measures and is determined to run his new business as a very tight ship.

He already knows the business inside out.

He was Loch Duart’s former product development and production manager for six years before it closed.

Iain MacRury, new owner of Loch Duart salmon.

Originally from Nunton, Benbecula, Iain worked his way up from kitchen porter to chef on the mainland.

When he came home, he worked for five years in the Polochar Hotel in South Uist before making the switch to the smokehouse.

When Loch Duart decided to close the smokehouse, Iain was given first refusal to take on the operation, known as Salar Smokehouse when it was in the hands of founders Jane and Eric Twelves.

He said: “Salar is a South Uist brand, it belongs here, and it should stay here.”

With support and guidance from local agencies and businesses, the deal was done, and the kilns are now up and running again, gently smoking Scottish-farmed salmon, sourced “at the best quality for the best price,” Iain says.

He’s chosen Loch Duart fish.

The new team is drawn from the old team,

with a joint 25 years experience in the smokehouse- Chris Holliday, Alistair MacQuien, Sarah Maclachlan, Peter Kelty, and new member Emma, Iain’s wife.

Iain said: “They are all multi-skilled in different areas of the business. Sarah and Peter are Modern Apprentices, learning Business Administration at Cothrom.

“I want to invest time and money on training the staff and keeping them actively involved.

“They will all contribute ideas and work to their talents and strengths.”

Emma will manage the retail side of the business. This is set for expansion, with an extension to the shop so that it can sell other local produce.

As for the hot-smoked salmon, it will return to its roots to be as close to Jane and Eric’s original recipe as the most recent legislation will permit.

Major step forward for South Uist Gaelic culture centre Architect’s impression of the Cnoc Soillier building.

CO CHOMUNN AN IOCHDAIR LTD

CARNAN STORES CARNAN, SOUTH UIST, WESTERN ISLES, HS8 5RH Phone: 01870 610205 Fax: 01870610216 Email: managercarnanstores@aol.com

Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 9 am to 5 pm Saturdays: 9.30 am to 12.30 pm ●

●

●

●

●

●

●

AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS – Full range of Ritchie gates, hurdles, feed and stock handling equipment.

ANIMALS - Large selection of Cattle, Sheep, Horse and Pig feed.

BIRD & PET FOOD – Grain, Mash, Pellets, Dried and Canned Dog/Cat food.

FENCING – Strainers, Stays, Stobs, Barbed/Plain Wire, Rylock, Staples.

HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES – Cookers, Deep Fat Fryers, Microwave Ovens, Fridges, Freezers, Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers & Kettles.

FURNITURE - Beds, Bedside Cabinets, Wardrobes, Chest Of Drawers, Dining Tables, Chairs, Coffee Tables, Bookcases & Coat stands.

HOME HARDWARE – Pots, Pans, Casseroles, Baking/Cooling Trays, Mugs, Jugs, Clocks, Mirrors, Bedding, Curtains, Blinds, Linen & Consumables.

●

HEATING APPLIANCES & FUEL – Electric & Gas Heaters, Coal, Logs, Kindling, Bottled Gas and Gas Appliances.

●

CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR – Wet Weather Suits, Boiler suits, Jackets, Trousers, Shirts, Socks, Underwear, Gloves, Hats, Wellingtons, Boots and Shoes.

●

PAINT – Undercoat, Emulsion, Gloss, Marine, Machinery Enamel.

●

TOOLS – Extensive range of Draper quality hand and power tools.

●

FIREARMS - Cartridges, Bullets, Pellets.

●

NEW - Engine Oil, Tractor Parts, Plumbing and Electrical Accessories.

This is just a small selection of what we have in stock. Everyone welcome to call in and look around.

COMPETITIVE PRICES PLEASE CHECK WITH US BEFORE ORDERING ELSEWHERE

A feasibility and design report has been completed for the proposed Ceolas/Lews Castle College music, dance and Gaelic culture centre in Daliburgh.

The £9.7m project integrates environmental sustainability with an ‘exemplary modern teaching and working environment’ and will be submitted for Stage 1 Lottery funding.

John Renshaw Architects of Edinburgh Architects were commissioned to carry out the report, Ceolas, Lews Castle College and the Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

By popular choice, the proposed building will be located at the Glebe in Daliburgh, selected as the most appropriate and favourable location after a rigorous options appraisal process and community vote.

The site is known locally as Cnoc Soillier – the bright knoll – a name

which encapsulates the vision and aspirations behind this project.

Dr Becky Rennell of Ceolas Uibhist Ltd said the proposed building and facilities at Cnoc Soillier are designed to create an inspiring and unforgettable impression for visitors, students and the community.

She said: “It will foster creativity and the joy of music, dance and the Gaelic cultural traditions.

“Internally it will be an exemplary modern teaching and working environment with ideal acoustics and ambience for experiencing, performing and teaching traditional music, dance and Gaelic.

“The building will be characterised by plentiful natural daylight, an intimate connection with the surrounding landscape and will be appropriate to its setting in terms of scale and materials.

“The aspiration is that this building will be environmentally sustainable, will provide excellent thermal performances and comply fully with the Passivhaus comfort and energy standard.”

Facilities will include teaching spaces, recording studios, dance studio, a large, high-spec performance area and music library Dr Rennell said: “Ceolas and LCC are delighted with the work carried out by John Renshaw Architects and are looking forward to moving forward with the project.”

John Renshaw Architects have significant experience of developing environmentally sustainable community buildings and art centres across the west coast of Scotland and are also currently working on the Grimsay Centre project in North Uist.

August 2015 Issue 38 - island news & ADVERTISER

Western Isles CABx advise on debts totalling more than £1.6m

Opinion Who let the hogs out?

Patrick Krause, chief executive of the Scottish Crofting Federation responds to the latest ‘rewilding’ movement which aims to reintroduce top predators such as lynx, bears, beavers and wolves into the Highlands.

The Faroese lifeboat.

700 by lethal injection.

The hedgehog is possibly Britain’s most endangered mammal.

Public outcry forced them to think again and SNH are now funding the relocation of hedgehogs to the mainland.

Incidentally, killing or relocating costs us about £800 per hedgehog and, so far, under 2000 have been relocated.

This leaves a lot of hedgehogs still on the islands, but whether they are responsible for the decline in wader populations is now being questioned by scientists.

It’s all a bit of a bùrach isn’t it?

Another cautionary tale relevant to the Uists concerns the wild geese. The first human intervention involved here was protecting the geese, allowing their numbers to rise to a ‘critical mass’. There are several reasons for the subsequent escalation of numbers but a very significant explosion in the population was seen with the second human intervention, the culling of the crow population. The crows had governed the goose population by feeding on

goose eggs. The wild goose infestation is now out of control, threatening crofters’ survival.

It is all well and good to romanticise about predators and pests. For example, Rewilding Britain, an organisation campaigning for the reintroduction of large predators and pests, say evocatively “wolves, lynx and other magnificent missing species would revitalise our living systems and enrich our lives.” Do they really know what they are talking about?

White-tailed sea eagles are taking lambs and even adult sheep because there were no-longer enough in-shore fish to sustain them when re-introduced to Scotland in the ‘70s. Do lynx know that it is OK to kill roe deer but not lambs or dogs? Do beavers know which trees to fell? Iconic species such as the red squirrel are under threat due to the invading grey, the red deer is past the point of no-return in being bred out by the sika and crofters are now an endangered species.

Relax.

Recharge.

Create great memories.

‘Rewilding’? Be careful what you wish for.

Faroese lifeboatmen help Angus with his letter quest

A young Leverburgh lad is getting closer to tracing the senders of a message in a bottle he found on Pabbay this spring.

Angus Boyd Campbell, 9, stumbled across the bottle, and was intrigued to find it had a message inside from an 8 year old boy in the Faroe Islands.

He wrote to the sender, Samuel Lassen, and during his impatient wait for a reply, heard that a Faroese lifeboat crew were visiting Leverburgh as part of a tour of some Scottish stations, including Portree, Oban and Tobermory.

Angus took his letter down to lifeboat station, and was thrilled to find that some of the crew even knew the street the letter came from. They tried unsuccessfully at that point to make contact with the Lassen family but vowed to continue to try and get

The Annual General Meeting of Western Isles Citizens Advice Bureaux will be held in Committee Room 3 at Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Stornoway, on Tuesday 18 August 2015 at 12 noon. All are welcome to attend.

Fish, stalk, cycle, dive, kayak, play golf - or just relax by the peat fire and soak in the splendid views

Dine on the best of local produce, seafood and game

Lobster by request!

Free pick-up

from the marin a

Calum and Karen MacAulay and their staff look forward to welcoming you!

Lochboisdale, Isle of South Uist, HS8 5TH Tel: 01878 700332 E Karen@lochboisdale.com

Now Open 8am to 5pm Mon to Sat Takeaway Angus Boyd Campbell surrounded by members of the Faroese and Harris lifeboat crews.

Angus and Samuel in touch.

Angus’s mum Kathryn said: “Angus really enjoyed his visit and spent

hours being shown round the Faroese lifeboat by the crew. They couldn’t have been kinder.”

Del i C afe

A

cull of hedgehogs was launched in 2002 in the Outer Hebrides resulting in the deaths of around 700 healthy animals over the next four years, despite fears for their survival in Britain.

It isn’t a good idea to rush into releasing predators into wild environments that aren’t used to them. In 1974 someone* let four hedgehogs go in South Uist (which has no indigenous hedgehogs) to control slugs in a garden.

Twenty-eight years later the islands were swarming with an estimated 5000 adult hedgehogs as there is no predator to control their population. *It is not reported who let the hogs out, but a rumour has it that it was a government employee – or is this an Island Myth?

As well as eating slugs, hedgehogs have a taste for birds’ eggs and it was concluded that the wader bird population was under threat.

Scottish Government and its quango Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) decided to cull the hedgehogs and over four years executed about

Residents took sought advice for debts totalling £1,619,020 from Western Isles Citizens Advice Service (WICAS) in the past year.

The figure makes up 18% of WICAS enquiries.

Welfare benefit queries increased by 6% , bringing them to 41% of the total enquiries handled.

The remaining enquiries related to such matters as employment, housing, legal, NHS concerns and complaints, council and income tax.

The four offices in the Western Isles (Castlebay, Balivanich, Tarbert, Stornoway) dealt with 5,136 client contacts and 6,424 issues raised.

David Blaney, WICAS chairman said: “The past year has seen a lot of changes, challenges and achievements.

“In particular Welfare Reform legislation has led to , as expected, a greater demand on our services.

“As the growing economic and financial pressures are felt by many in our community, so had the need for debt advice increased, as has advice to those who are facing difficulties in meeting rent and mortgage payments.”

The four bureaux are actively looking for new volunteers, who will be given training to carry out various duties in their offices. Contact your local office for more information.

WICAS training officer Norah MacPhee said: “Life is never dull in any of our offices and one look at the numerous and varied types of issues raised just goes to show how our volunteers can get hooked on their work as the variety of enquiries is endless.”

TEL: 01870 602 7 796 9

9

10

island news & ADVERTISER - August 2015 Issue 38

A Hebridean SUMMER

SWI Lochmaddy Plying lessons at the annual SWI Lochmaddy exhibition and sale of arts and crafts.

The islands are full of community events over the short summer season.

We’ve captured some of those precious moments in this 2015 pictorial.

North Uist Feis

Ceòlas

Annual Berneray

Sheep Dog Trials

August 2015 Issue 38 - island news & ADVERTISER

Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band played in Stornoway

11

Hebridean SUMMER 2015

Fèis Thiriodh/Tiree Fèis

Fèis Tir a Mhurain/South Uist Fèis

Children from Fèis Beag sang for residents at Sacred Heart nursing home in Daliburgh.

Lochboisdale Cafe

Open all year

SIX DAYS A WEEK Barista

coffee

Tel: 01878 700313

Gift

shop

Walking

distance from marina

12

island news & ADVERTISER - August 2015 Issue 38

Hebridean SUMMER 2015

Alexander McCall Smith with his yacht Puffin in Lochmaddy

The author Alexander McCall Smith raised the roof with laughter when he addressed a full house at Lochmaddy Hall.

North Uist Games

South Uist Games

Find the results of the North and South Uist Highland Games at islandnewsandadvertiser.co.uk

August 2015 Issue 38 - island news & ADVERTISER

13

What’s On Guide for the month of August across the Hebrides Music On The Isles

Berneray

Canna

The annual orchestral and chamber music course on Berneray for gifted young musicians is now into its fifteenth year, writes director Caroline Bergius.

Canna Feis/Feis Chanaidh

This year we have 14 participants between the ages of 11 and 18 (string players and one flautist).

They arrive on 17th August and receive two weeks’ intensive instruction by our enthusiastic teaching team.

David Buehl Cello (Highland Young Musician of the year 2009 & now studying at the Musikhochschule Hamburg).

On Saturday 22nd August at 7.30 pm in the Community Hall Berneray we are holding a Teachers’ Concert with works by Handel, Corelli, Bach and Schubert.

Caroline Bergius.

Caroline Bergius Harpsichord.

Rebekka Hartmann and Caroline Bergius.

Rebekka Hartmann Violin (one of Germany’s leading young soloists).

Olivia Francis Violin (at present studying at the Royal College of Music, London).

Ann Schneidt

Cello player 12 year old Constant Yogeshwar.

Two Pupils’ Concerts with differing programmes take place in the Community Hall Berneray on Friday 28th August and Saturday 29th August, both at 7.30 pm.

Wolfgang Bergius

Highlights of the programme are the Concerto

by J.S.Bach for three violins and strings, a Handel Concerto Grosso and various string quartet movements by Beethoven, Dvořåk and Tchaikovsky.

Cello (former member of Bavarian State Orchestra, Munich).

Adults ÂŁ8, children over 14 and students ÂŁ4, under 14s free.

Viola (Principal Viola, Gaertner Platz Theater, Munich).

Hebridean Huts Cool Camping in Peaceful Surroundings

Available for overnight stays or longer

From ÂŁ30 per hut per night (sleeps 2)

Fully insulated turf-roofed huts with private deck

Tighard & Various locations on Canna Margaret Fay Shaw’s mischievous cat Willi will be the first to make an appearance at the Feis.

He has been immortalised in the publication in WIKKEDWILLISSAGA, The Nine Lives of Wicked William by John Lorne Campbell.

The book, published by Grace Note Publications with a forward by Professor Hugh Cheape and Gaelic translation by Ian MacDonald will be presented at the start of the evening.

The evening proceeds with Margaret Bennett with Stories, songs and traditions from the Gaels across the world.

Entry is free - contributions towards the music course would be welcome.

The musicians are:

TUES 5 & WED 6 AUGUST 7pm

Shower, cooking and laundry facilities

Call or text Duncan on

0795 2163080 Paible, North Uist HS6 5DZ

A wonderful opportunity to spend an evening listening to the mesmerising Margaret Bennett telling stories illustrated with the songs, photos and live music exploring the traditions and heritage of the Gaelic diaspora around the world.

THURSDAY 6 AUGUST 10.30am Morning songs in the chapel

With Margaret Bennett . Gaelic song classes for all- an exciting opportunity to learn songs from Margaret who has a wonderful gift for imparting her knowledge and skills to anyone who is keen to learn.

2.30pm Promenade performance of An Sgathan- by Fiona J Mackenzie, directed by Colin Irvine A unique piece of Gaelic ‘street music theatre’, focusing on the legacy of the work of Margaret Fay Shaw and how the sea and shoreline influences Song, in all its guises, both on South Uist and on Canna, where Margaret’s collection now resides.

It takes the form of an exciting ‘promenade’ performance along with the Canna children starting at Canna Bridge to Sanday with stories and performances of some of the songs collected by Margaret Fay Shaw.

This will be followed by a unique performance of eight new songs composed by Fiona, accompanied by Yvonne and David Lyon in the Camus Arts Centre. A small gathering afterwards with music and drinks.

Gaelic singer/songwriter Fiona J Mackenzie (pictured) is archivist/manager for the unique Canna Collection at Canna House. Colin Irvine co-runs Tighard Guest House on the island.

14

island news & ADVERTISER - August 2015 Issue 38

What’s On Guide for the month of August across the Hebrides

Mapping the islands in sound An exhibition capturing the sounds of the Hebrides and with them the thoughts, memories and associations of islanders has opened in Museum Nan Eilean, Sgoil Lionacleit.

Pupils from S2 at the school were closely involved in the creation of the installation, led by sound artist/composer Dr Cathy Lane of the University of the Arts, London.

Cathy drew on her many years of visiting the Hebrides to create her work The Hebrides Suite, using interviews, field recordings and archive material, in conjunction with local history societies and the School of Scottish Studies.

Her new exhibition also draws on these sources, but incorporates recordings carried Aromatherapy Massage Aromatherapy Facials out by 15 S2 Gaelic pupils.

Indian HeadMassage Reiki Ear Candling They recorded interviews with family members and went out in the field to capture sound Contact: Sheila - 07919 184627 from places which mean Gift Vouchers available Map from new sound exhibition. something to them.

Dr Cathy Lane with S2 pupils.

Recordings were carried out at Stoneybridge, Ormacleit and Carinish.

The pupils also made maps showing some of the things that emerged during the interviews.

Cathy said: “The landscape is criss-crossed with the memories of others, and our own, and some are embedded in place names.

Complementary therapies

“The children have drawn maps which reflect their world.”

for health, healing and relaxation

The maps and other objects associated with capturing audio in the Hebrides are on display in the exhibition, along with eight speakers channeling sound into what Cathy describes as ‘an immersive experience.’

The Hebrides Suite: Mapping the Island in Sound runs to the end of October.

North Harris Trust Guided Walks (All walks free of charge) TUESDAY MORNINGS 4, 11, 18, 25 AUGUST 10am - 12pm

Eagle Watch at the North Harris Eagle Observatory Food cabin based at Balranald Hebridean Holidays Campsite

Open to non-residents Soups Homebaking ● Freshly filled rolls and sandwiches ● Coffee, Tea, Soft Drinks, Ice Cream ● ●

Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 11am - 3pm Sat & Sun 11am - 4pm

Macleans BAKERY, BENBECULA

Butchery counter featuring local meat Fine local fish and seafood

Tempting range of oatcakes, bread and treats Fresh vegetables Hot and cold snacks And don't forget our takeaway in Balivanich Sandwiches, soup, hot dishes and pies Whatever you want, when you want it!

Uachdar, Isle of Benbecula HS7 5LY Tel. 01870 602659

The North Harris Ranger will be at the Eagle Observatory every Tuesday morning between 10am and 12pm through July and August (starting 14th July) to help you spot eagles, and to answer any questions you may have about wildlife watching and walking on Harris. The Observatory is an easy 1.5 mile walk out along the Glen Miavaig track.

Parking: Glen Miavaig Car Park (NB 101 063).

TUESDAY AFTERNOONS 4, 11, 18, 25 AUGUST 1 - 4pm

Hushinish Machair Flowers

investigate its unique flora and learn some of the traditional uses for its plants. Views from Hushinish are spectacular and there will be an opportunity to hear about the history of the adjacent island of Scarp. FREE OF CHARGE. Meet: Hushinish car park, by the public toilets (NA 992 121).

Distance: 1.5 miles

THURSDAY 6 AUGUST 1 - 4pm

Exploring the Ardvourlie Woodland A short guided walk around the developing native woodland at Ardvourlie. Learn all about woodland on the Western Isles past, present and future! This walk follows a good path but includes some steep sections.

seals and porpoises and there is always the chance of a glimpse of an eagle above the skyline.

Meet: Rhenigidale – start of footpath, just before the village (NB 225 017).

Meet: Car Park next to the Scaladale Centre (NB 187 105).

Distance: 3 miles

Distance: 2 miles

THURSDAY 27 AUGUST 9.30am - 5pm

An easy walk across the Hushinish machair to

Bag a Beinn – Tiorga Mòr THURSDAY 13 AUGUST 10am - 3pm

Molinginish An opportunity to visit the remote village of Molinginish on the shore of Loch Trolamaraig. This is a sheltered sea loch with plenty of wildlife and a wealth of cultural heritage. Bring lunch.

Meet: Lacasdail Lochs car park, 2 miles East of Tarbert, start of footpath (NB 184 004).

Distance: 6 miles

THURSDAY 20 AUGUST 1pm - 4.30pm

Rhenigidale to Loch Trolamaraig The remote village of Rhenigidale was the last Scottish settlement to be connected by road in 1989. This is an easy walk along the old postman’s path, past a ruined settlement to the head of Loch Trolamaraig. Good for

Tiorga Mòr (679m) gives spectacular views across some of Scotland’s most remote and rugged terrain. This is our ranger’s favourite North Harris hill! Much of the walk is across rough hill ground.

Bring lunch.

Meet: Start of track just to the east of Amhuinnsuidhe Castle (NB 052 077).

Distance: 8 miles For more information contact Matt at the North Harris Trust: 01859 502222, ranger@north-harris.org

EVERY WEDNESDAY 1 APRIL - 16 SEPTEMBER 10am - 1.30pm

Eagle Walk – North Harris Trust & RSPB Scotland A guided walk in search of Golden Eagles and Sea Eagles in the North Harris Hills.

RSPB members, “Friends” & members of NHT and children - Free Non-members - £5 Meet: Bogha Glas car park (NB 186 115).

Distance: 4.5 miles

August 2015 Issue 38 - island news & ADVERTISER

15

NEIGHBOURS

A dramatic find on a fascinating Orkney dig Dr Rebecca Rennell This year’s investigations revealed another intriguing underground feature. This was an entirely unexpected discovery that came about when a volunteer fell dramatically through a paved floor revealing a hidden underground staircase. Amazingly this staircase was cut into the bare bedrock leading down more than two meters below the broch walls. News of the underground staircase and its discovery spread quickly in Orkney with local archaeologists, students and interested members of the community flocking to the site over the following days.

‘‘

We must now wait patiently until 2016 before we can hope to get to the bottom of the staircase and the other mysteries of The Cairns!

I

’ve just returned from Orkney having spent my third season helping to supervise excavations at The Cairns in South Ronaldsay with my colleagues at the UHI Archaeology Institute.

This year we made some jaw-droppingly fabulous discoveries that converted even the coolest students into fully-fledged archaeology nerds.

The Cairns is a complex, multi-period settlement dating from at least the Middle Iron Age (c.400BC – 400AD) through to the 11th-12th centuries AD. The excavation centres on a large Iron Age broch, similar in size and style to Dun Carloway in Lewis, surrounded by a large enclosure ditch and numerous small cellular buildings. So far the excavation tells us that the broch was probably abandoned after the 2nd or 3rd centuries AD. The site was then reused in the Later Iron Age and into the Norse and early medieval periods.

Some of the later buildings were constructed directly into the rubble of the ruined broch.

Other structures, such as the magnificent and mysterious underground earth-house or souterrain, reused the entrance passage to what was by then a very ancient building.

The mysterious underground staircase full of water © Martin Carruthers, Archaeology Institute UHI.

‘‘

Dr Becky Rennell

Deep staircases or passageways leading to underground cells or cellars are not entirely uncommon within Orcadian brochs. Similar examples can be found at the well-known Broch of Gurness and Midhowe broch in Rousay.

Traditionally these types of features are described as wells, yet there is little evidence to support this interpretation and there remains so much more to discover and understand about these mysterious features. It is also curious that there are no known examples from brochs in the Western Isles.

Elsewhere on the site discoveries were no less important.

Over 60 clay mould fragments and complete moulds for casting ring-headed pins and penannular brooches (large clothes fasteners) were found near the large boundary ditch.

This represents the The penannular brooch largest assemblage of mould, measuring its kind and will make about 10cm across. © Martin Carruthers, a huge contribution to Archaeology Institute UHI. our understanding of Iron Age bronze casting. Other interesting finds included a beautiful gaming counter and a conical gaming piece. These artefacts remind us that Iron Age life was very far from all work and no play.

Unfortunately, as ever, our excavation seasons fly by. We must now wait patiently until 2016 before we can hope to get to the bottom of the staircase and the other mysteries of The Cairns!

The excavation continues to address fundamentally important questions about our past and to challenging the way archaeologists understand and interpret Scotland’s Later

The scene at the dig moments after the discovery.

Prehistory. The Cairns is also an excellent example of the success and wide reaching benefits of an integrated research, community and teaching fieldwork project.

This year the student cohort comprised individuals from campuses throughout the UHI network (Perth, Inverness, Orkney and Lews Castle College) as well as post-graduate students from Stirling University, local volunteers and huge numbers of visitors. I am also pleased to report to IN&A readers that there was a strong Western Isles contingency on site; in addition to myself, two Stornoway-based Lews Castle College students, Michael Ferguson and Sandy MacDonald, and Lewis-based archaeologist Ian McHardy.

© Martin Carruthers, Archaeology Institute UHI.

Thanks to Martin Carruthers, Site Director and UHI lecturer who has been overseeing excavations at the Cairns since 2006, to my fellow supervisors James and Mick and to all the students and volunteers for making this another great fieldwork season. The excavation project is partly funded by Orkney Islands Council Archaeology Fund and is supported by ORCA and the UHI Archaeology Institute.

www.hebrideanconnections.com www.hebrideanconnections.com

Hard at work on the Cairns dig. © Martin Carruthers, Archaeology Institute UHI.

16

island news & ADVERTISER - August 2015 Issue 38

NEIGHBOURS Creative spark fanned in Jersey from interisland collaboration Mingling threads, nails, a Second World War German look-out station and the three A short stretch of sand or water tongues of English, Gaelic and away from where sportsmen Spanish, they spun together sweltered in Jersey last month stories of what this experience seeking to bring home medals was like in the far-flung for their respective locations of Guernsey, island-groups, another type of Gibraltar and St Kilda; the gathering took place. sense of loss and resentment Involving artists, musicians, that comes from realising that writers and others from twenty land is lost to ones who are not islands, ranging from Faroe ‘your own’.

Islands in the north to St There were other striking Helena at the southern end of combinations. The long trails of the Atlantic, it was one which her dress billowing, Kristina brought into existence Sorensen Ougaard from the one-eyed monsters, giant Faroe Islands (pictured)danced hounds and shipwrecked on top of a war-time bunker to sailors. the strains of the Manx song, ‘Lhiannan Shee’ from the lips of that island’s Sarah Hendy.

Jersey’s Eddie Bailhache sang along with Ami Zanders from Bermuda on an original song which contained a complaint that is probably all too often found on the lips of island teenagers from Torshavn to Stornoway, Lerwick to Horacia Esteban’s Cayman Islands – ‘The island never changes – but Kristina Sorensen Ougaard. we do’.

Annuka Turraka from Aland They were all magicked into life by an artists’ ten-day lock-in worked together with Nic West from Alderney and others on a organised by Jersey Arts in short film that showed the Elizabeth Castle, a tidal island neglect and brutality that is off St Helier, the capital of sometimes found at the heart Jersey. of island life.

Living in tents on the One would hope that such an foreshore, beneath the castle event would occur again. It walls, the artists produced a builds up contacts between great deal of distinctive work different islands. during their time ‘locked away’ Kristina Sorensen Ougaard is, from others. This included for instance, working with a much that showed the number of other Faroese commonality of island artists on a production experience. centering on the ‘happy Shetland writer James Sinclair collaborated with Boris occupation’ of her native islands by the Lovat Scouts in Sestakov, the representative World War Two. Until a short from the Estonian island of conversation on the castle Saaremaa, to produce a ship’s ramparts she was unaware that log and sea-chart that told the many of the soldiers who account of the loss of a vessel served there were Gaelic from Yell in the Northern Isles. speakers from the Western Others – like Francis Isles.

Lemmon, Fran Flett As was recognised by the TV Hollinrake, Alan Perez and crews and other forms of myself – came together to media visiting Elizabeth Castle, re-tell the stories of islands the ‘creative spark’ produced under military occupations of by artistic collaboration can be different kinds. as eye-catching and important as the one engendered by the physical completion of their athletic MEMORIALS LTD counterparts.

TRADITIONAL, INDIVIDUAL AND EVERLASTING MEMORIALS One can only Memorials, Renovations and additional inscriptions hope that, in carried out in any cemetery the years Home visits arranged to suit you ahead, this Telephone for our helpful brochure via post continues to Unit 33 Carsegate Road, Inverness, IV3 8EX bring fruit.

Tel: 01463 711287 Fax: 07798 734778

Donald S Murray

Yasmin in her workshop.

Blogger Yasmin takes Skye to the Rising Sun Crofter, knitter and designer Yasmin Milburn knows a thing or two about survival in adversity.

A

nd in Japan, they know all about Yasmin.

They follow her every move through monthly articles she contributes to mr partner, a popular magazine.

Yasmin moved to Skye from Colonsay after a devastating house fire in which she lost virtually everything.

Not long before the fire, Yasmin had been visited on Colonsay by a leading Japanese travel writer Keiko Honda and photographer Sei Taguchi, from mr partner.

Yasmin said: “Keiko and Sei travelled all the way from Tokyo to Colonsay to see our flock of seventy Hebridean sheep and to write about the wool and traditional knitwear I was producing.

All things British are very popular in Japan but there is a special affinity with Scotland, and its west coast in particular.

“They had a wonderful and informative time, discovering what it was like to live and work on such a remote Scottish island, the challenges we face, the resilience of the people and the efforts many of us have to make in order sustain ourselves.

“When they returned to Japan they featured me in a travel book and I thought that would be that – a very interesting and uplifting encounter from the far side of the world.”

But fate took a hand, and a few months later came the Colonsay catastrophe.

Yasmin said: “I was contacted again when they read the news about the fire on my blog. Our house on Colonsay was a total loss and we had no desire to rebuild on the same spot

Jon Hearach

www.jonhearach.co.uk email: hearachworks@aol.com

An example of Yasmin’s Japanese magazine articles.

– which the insurance company insisted on and so we set out for Skye with a view to buying a croft and starting our lives again from scratch.”

Yasmin and her partner Trevor secured a bareland croft in Edinbane and she was commissioned by mr partner to write twelve monthly articles about rebuilding her life, her flock and livelihood.

She said: “We have now restocked and are also breeding Black Cheviot Yasmin out on her croft. sheep as well as Hebrideans, we have planning permission for a new croft house and for a new-build thatched blackhouse that will be the base for my business.

“The journey to this point has been arduous, the loss has been beyond imagination, but it has also been rewarding and the Skye crofters have been so very supportive, so much so that one or two of them have also been profiled highly in the articles – the Bernisdale Boys (John McLeod and Willie MacDonald) and the Braes Boys (Malcolm, Magnus and Donald John). Their efforts and our own efforts have attracted a massive readership.”

The articles have proved so popular that Yasmin has received a commission for another 12 articles for mr partner.

She said: “Tourism is such an important income stream for us here and everything we can do to promote it is important.

“Crofting is not just a way of life, it’s also got international appeal and the hard work, tenacity and challenges facing those that live and work on the land, especially in this amazing landscape, is something that inspires many people from around the world.”

Yasmin’s Japanese alliance doesn’t end there.

Later in the year she will be travel to Tokyo to give talks about her journey from Colonsay to Skye and to showcase her produce.

August 2015 Issue 38 - island news & ADVERTISER

17

WILDLIFE Mixed fortunes for isles wildlife in the cold wet spring and summer – two Uist naturalists share their observations

Slow plant growth and a toll on insects Steve Duffield Many of the flowers were very late in emerging with Early Marsh Orchid still flowering at the time of writing (late July).

It wasn’t seen until well into June when Early Marsh Orchid. it’s normally out from © Steve Duffield mid-May. The Pugsley’s Marsh Orchid – formerly Hebridean Marsh Orchid- was still in flower in early July, when it’s normally out in late May and early June.

It took until mid July for growth to pick up and good floral displays to appear.

Keep an eye out for Irish Lady’s Tresses in late July / early August in Benbecula, South Uist and Barra as it’s been a while Pugsleys Marsh Orchid since they had a good in North Uist. © Steve Duffield flowering year (2010).

Please report any sightings of these to steveduffield70@gmail.com and check out the website for recent sightings: www.western-isles-wildlife.com Insects have been severely affected by the cold and wet spring.

I was unable to do much moth trapping through most of May and June as the weather was too wet and windy through most of May and June- but there have been some very late records such as Puss Moth seen in late July.

I spotted Great Yellow Bumblebees at Loch Eynort where I haven’t seen them before.

Some of Black-Throated Divers nest attempts were flooded out with high Great Yellow Bumblebee at Loch water levels but others Eynort. © Steve Duffield carried on with first chick seen on June 1. With an incubation period of about four weeks it must have laid eggs in early May in some very bad weather but survived.

There appears to be normal numbers of young waders, and other insect eating birds appear to have fared OK such as Sand Martins, Wheatears, Meadow Pipit and Willow Warblers.

It’s quite incredible how resilient some of these birds are.

Red-necked Phalaropes have been seen in relatively high numbers this year at their favourite breeding haunt and even returned to some of their former haunts – apparently the Northern Isles have seen their best year for many according to Jamie Boyle (RSPB).

Red Necked Phalarope in Benbecula. © Steve Duffield

Steve leads guided wildlife tours and can be found at www.western-isles-wildlife.com

Butterflies and bumblebees have suffered Bill Neill

Is the weather adversely affecting our native wildlife?

Let’s look at what we know.

Some flowers have certainly enjoyed the rain whilst others have delayed flowering because of the cold. This has led to odd combinations of early and late plants flowering together.

Insect numbers are more difficult to judge. There have been less recorded but this might be because they have not been on the wing or maybe the recorders have themselves been sheltering.

Butterfly sightings are well down.

Apart from some early Small Tortoiseshells, other local species are fewer in number and first records are later than normal. Painted Lady and Red Admirals have been recorded but they are migrants from the warm south.

Bumblebees have a high profile these days and many people are now aware of how important they are to us. Last year was a good year for bumblebees in the Outer Hebrides, witness the high numbers of queens that emerged early this year. Sadly many of these bees will have succumbed due to the cold wet weather that followed. Long term they will survive in our pesticide free environment: they have probably survived worse conditions in the past.

The weather will affect their numbers next year.

The cold, rain and lack of insects has also affected many of our breeding birds with smaller clutches and fewer surviving chicks, but again not all species have struggled. It will not have gone unnoticed that ducks and geese seem to have done rather well.

We have recorded some new species for the islands including a solitary bee.

Solitary bees are bees that do not form a colony with workers, males and

a queen like honeybees and bumblebees. They are much smaller and quite difficult to spot so well done Jon Noad, the sharp eyed entomologist who recorded Andrena ruficrus this spring in South Uist. It should perhaps be called the willow bee as it feeds on the pollen from willow catkins. The moral of this story is that where there is a good pollen source there will be a bee or other insect there to effect pollination.

Most dragonflies and damselflies have

Emerald Damselfly © Bill Neill

the option of staying as larvae under water if the water is cold and food short, but you can still find and record the larvae by scooping them out of the water. The drawing is of the rarely recorded Emerald Damselfly.

I assure you it’s a beauty when has hatched!

Check out our website ohbr.org.uk or the Outer Hebrides Biological Recording Facebook page for more information.

A ruficrus. © Bill Neill

Bill Neill is a wildlife artist and member of Outer Hebrides Biological Recording

18

island news & ADVERTISER - August 2015 Issue 38

Classified Ads Don’t let your business be a secret

Tel:01870 602151 or email:ads@islandnewsandadvertiser.co.uk Cafe/Post Office/Gift Shop

Grass cutting/small plant repairs

An Taigh Fiodh, Grimsay Luxurious self-catering apartment www.grimsay.com Call Heather 01870 602943

Lochboisdale Café Open all year 6 days. WiFi. Tel: 01878 700313

Davidʼs Garden Machinery Grass cutting, small plant repairs, hires tel: 01870 603833 mob: 07880 743437 gardenmachinery01@hotmail.com

Minibus Hire

Scalpay Minibus Services

Accommodation

Sollas, North Uist Comfortable S/C croft house, 3 beds, sleeps 7 Walking distance from beach Contact Morag 01877 382339

Car Commercials Plant & Marine Repairs Available for Hire 15 to 57 Seater Buses 6M Luton Vans.

HEBCO Howmore, Isle of South Uist Tel: 01870 620 345 Mob: 07900 806 638

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Agricultural Contractor & Plant Hire Digger & Tractor Hire, Landscaping, Access Roads, Agricultural Sheds, Building Sand, Gravel, Concreting John Allan MacLellan Tel: 01876 510304 Mob: 07786 430989

AJ BEATON Roofing Specialist

New builds, extensions and renovations

Approved installer of GRP fiberglass roofing

Operating from Barra and Uist

Telephone 01871 890374 Mobile 077882 630 80

Skye. Pullets brown, black or pure breeds.

Hen sheds, feeders & drinkers.

Tel: 01470 572213

Painter and Decorator

Church Services

10.30: An Caladh, Balivanich 12.00: Carinish 15.00: Lochboisdale 18.00: Carinish

Midweek and monthly meetings throughout the Uists.

A very warm welcome is extended to all.

Chandlery

H.M.I.W.

Opening Hours: Mondays 10am - 5pm Can call evenings

Puffin Frames

www.facebook.com/groups/RosieMoar Rosie Moar Kleeneze/Klife Distributor rosie8@btinternet.com

Professionally trained picture framer

07919 075 023

Rivendale, Lochboisdale, South Uist HS8 5TN

5 Gearradubh, Grimsay, Isle of North Uist, HS6 5HU

Independent Advice

Fishing Beta Tohatsu

Picture Framer

HOME BARGAINS

The Old Manse, 1 Griminish, Benbecula, HS7 5QA

All types of decoration undertaken.

Ally MacKenzie Tel: 01870 602725 Mob: 07723013884

ROSIE’S

Tel: 01870 602575 Mobile: 07919 665512

Chandlery

Skinners Decor Painting & Decorating DIY Shop Howdenʼs Kitchens Tel: 01870 602423

Home Shopping

Enterprises

CONTACT RODDY

Tel: 01859 540356 / 07827 392 758

Interior and exterior painting, wallpapering & removal, power washing, gutters, windows & doors, chimneys.

Call Harry on 07826 420564

Sunday School and Crèche facilities at both the 10.30 and 12 noon service.

Collect from and return to Leverburgh ferry.

Hens for Sale

Home maintenance & repair

Sunday Services in the Uists

BUILDING & ROOFING CONTRACTOR

to discuss the perfect Call 01870 602151 package for your business

Uist Vac Services Uist & Barra Tel: 01870 602212/07765 524 753

Builder/Joiner Archie MacDonald Tel: 01870 603296 Mob: 07718 888463

www.islandnewsandadvertiser.co.uk

Grimsay 6 bed s/c cottage www.hebrideanholiday accommodation.co.uk Tel: 07879 881904

16-seat minibuses and drivers for hire.

Why not consider an online ad on our busy site?

Western Isles Citizens Advice Service

Barra 01871 810608 Uist 01870 602421 Harris 01859 502431 Lewis 01851 705727

Money Advice 01870 603807 and 01851 700088

Tel:01870 603731 puffinframes@gmail.com Photography

SandieMaciver PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER Dip. Pro. Photo.

Weddings Family portraits Commercial Events, etc

Telephone:

01851 720888

Cycle Shop

Jewellers

Cycle hire, sales, repairs.

Rothan Cycles Tel: 01870 620283 rothan@hebrides.net www.rothan.com

Scottish, Celtic, silver and gold jewellery.

Traditional and contemporary designs.

Tel: 01870 610288 www.hebrideanjewellery.co.uk

office@sandiephotos.com www.sandiephotos.com

Licensed Tearoom & Shop

Photographic Printing and Graphic Design

Groceries, Gifts, Snacks Summer evening meals Ardmaree Stores The Lobster Pot, Berneray Tel: 01876 540288

Clothing, Workwear Canvas, Photo Restoration Balloons & Banners Custom Prints 01870 602515

AND

At the heart of the Community ●

Wide selection

●

Local meat, fish, eggs and seasonal veg

●

Fresh baking

●

Daily papers

●

Friendly service

Filling Station ●

Fuel

Ardhasaig Harris Tel: 01859 502066 Licensed Grocers, Calor Gas & Bicycle Hire

Memorials Open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 6pm

Telephone: 01876 510257 Bayhead, North Uist

Fire Protection Western Isles Fire Protection Fire equipment sales and service Contact Mark on 078279 67894

Jon Hearach Memorials Memorials, renovations, added inscriptions Any cemetery, Home visits.

Tel. for our helpful brochure.

01463 711287

07014 238711

Pregnancy Crisis Free confidential counselling W.I.Pregnancy Crisis Support Text or phone: 07901 966101 E: support@wipcs.org Web: www.wipcs.org

August 2015 Issue 38 - island news & ADVERTISER

Podiatry

Podiatry Clinic and Home Visits available in Uist and Benbecula Kevin Macdonald MChS, BscHons, HPC Registered

Contact 07879 563 618 for an appointment or more information Also at PJs Hair Design 01851 706200

Property

House Plots

Back Pharmacy 01851 820333 Silhouettes Leverburgh 01859 520216 Home visits

Politicians Alasdair Allan MSP SNP 31 Bayhead, Stornoway, Lewis.

E: alasdair.allan.msp@scottish.parliament.uk T: 01870 602287 (Uist & Barra) 01851 702272 (Lewis & Harris)

Donald Manford Cllr South Uist, Eriskay, Barra and Vatersay Welcome All Enquiries.

Home Visits.

Tel 01871 890288 Mob 07884 236101 dmanford@cne-siar.gov.uk

A unique opportunity to purchase house plots with stunning views across Vallay Strand and to the hills of Harris.

View from the plots

There are currently two 1/3 acre plots and an acre plot available off the main road

Services Available ● ●

Architectural Services All Building Works

●

Kit Plans Supplied / Designed

are not subject to crofting restrictions.

●

All Plumbing / Electrical Works

Both services (power and water) are close to

●

hand and easy to access. There is also land

●

Planning Applications All Joinery Works

●

Power and Water Connections

●

Dedicated Project Management

●

All Groundworks Scaled Payment Service

overlooking Vallay Strand.

They all have outline planning permission and

available to buy/rent for any purchaser interested in creating a small holding or larger garden. over the Vallay Strand towards the Harris hills.

●

COMPLETE HOUSE BUILD For a One Stop Shop contact: Angus MacDonald Tel: 01876510293 / 07970218904 Project e: rthomp4521@btinternet.com

Samaritans of the Western Isles Talk to us in your own way, whatever lifeʼs done to you.

Call Samaritans on 0845 790 9090 Or email jo@samaritans.org No pressure, no judgement

Cottage of Aird Inverness

3 bedroom holiday or short-term let (sleeps 6).

Lovely rural aspect and only 3 miles from city centre.

Also close to Raigmore Hospital.

Holiday Cottages Wanted – Competitive Commission Rates Fiona 07725 215316 or 01470 532508

Book direct: enquiries@cottageofaird.co.uk via Facebook or TripAdvisor (Cottage of Aird).

email fiona.macleod@wynvr.co.uk

Taxis

TV, Satellite & Broadband

Airport, ferry, school runs, Staff runs & small contracts, 24/7 service Menzies Private Hire Tel: 07833 357241 www.mph247.co.uk

Satellite Broadband, TV Aerial & Satellite Dish Call Charles: 01876 580372 or 07748 081871

Or alternatively

Uist Computer Repairs

Slimming Isle of Barra local taxi Tel: 01871 810012 Mobile: 07974 071255

Low cost computer repairs and servicing Call VOOVE: 0845 689 0030 (Local Call Rate)

Uist Satellite Internet Tam’s Taxi Tel: 07717 862999 Covers Uist area

Fast Internet Access for the Islands Get Connected Call VOOVE: 0845 689 0030 (Local Call Rate)

Taxis & Guided Tours Please contact Janet Jevons, your Rep for the Western Isles Email: janetjevons2078@gmail.com Or on Facebook Janet Jevons

Window cleaner Alba Taxis - Butt to Barra guided tours 07747 117870 sales@albannachtours.co.uk

Window cleaner/ odd jobs Berneray, North Uist, Benbecula Call Colin 01876 540252

Training

Wi-Fi Installs

Opportunities for Learning Cothrom Ltd Tel: 01878 700910 www.cothrom.net

Commercial and Residential Wi-Fi Installs Whole House or Hotel Wireless Service Call VOOVE: 0845 689 0030 (Local Call Rate)

Solicitor and Notary Public kfmLAW Kevin MacPherson 01851 467202 enquiries@kfmlaw.co.uk www.kfmlaw.co.uk

Please note in BLUE BINS hard plastic and tins only, no polythene or black bags

Monday Aug 24 Paper/Card Aug 10 Blue Bin East Gerinish, Rhughasinish, Lochcarnan, Iochdar, Ardnamonie, Ardivacher, Ardmore, Creagorry, Liniclate & Liniclate School, Torlum, Hacklet, Uiskevagh, Petersport, WestCamp, Balivanich, Locheport, Berneray, ClachanSands, Vallique, Lochportain, Cheesebay, Lochmaddy, Minish, Blashaval, Uachdar, Dunganichy.

Tuesdays August 11, 25 Residual Smerclate, Garrynamonie, South Lochboisdale, South Boisdale, North Boisdale, Daliburgh Commercials and Daliburgh West of, Kilphedar, Strome, Eriskay, Glendale, Kilbride, Rangehead, Hacklet Eastwards, Uiskevagh, Petersport,WestCamp, Balivanich/Aird, Creagorry Commercials, Liniclate Commercials, Liniclate Muir, Uachdar, Dunganichy.

Wednesday Aug 26 Blue Bin Aug 12 Paper/Card Stoneybridge, Locheynort, Dalibrugh, Lochboisdale, Garryhellie, Askernish, Milton, Kildonan, Bornish, Howmore, Howbeg, Drimsdale, Stilligarry, Drimore, Gernish, Rangehead, Liniclate Commercials, Balivanich Commercials.

Thursdays August 13, 27 Residual Clachan, Claddach District, Bayhead, Knockintorran, Balemore, Kyles Paible, Paible, Sollas, Hosta, Tigharry, Grenitote, Ahmore, Balranald, Langass Lodge, Hougharry, Middlequarter, Lochmaddy Commercials, Clachan-na-luib, Carinish, Baleshare, Claddach Carinish, Grimsay, Island Flodda, Gramsdale, Griminish, Nonton, Aird, Muir of Aird.

Want to know more ? Contact

Satellite Dish Repair Satellite Replacement, Retune and Repair Emergency Call Outs Available Call VOOVE: 0845 689 0030 (Local Call Rate)

AUGUST REFUSE COLLECTION FOR UIST

For information about the availability of gravity locks for wheelie bins please contact the Waste Transfer Station, Market Stance on 01870 604998.

The sites have uninterrupted panoramic views

Printers

19

Monday Aug 17 Paper/Card Aug 3, 31 Blue Bin Clachan, Claddach District, Bayhead, Knockintorran, Balemore, Kyles Paible, Paible, Balranald, Tigharry, Lochmaddy Commercials, Hougharry, Hosta, Sollas, Middlequarter, Grenitote, Langass Lodge, Clachan-na-luib, Carinish, Baleshare, Claddach Carinish, Grimsay, Island Flodda, Nunton, Aird, Muir of Aird, Gramsdale, Griminish.

Tuesdays August 4, 18 Residual Stoneybridge, Locheynort, Daliburgh, Lochboisdale, Garryhellie, Askernish, Milton, Kildonan, Bornish, Howmore, Drimsdale, Stilligarry, Howbeg, Drimore, Gernish, Rangehead, East Gernish, Rhughasinish, Lochcarnan, Iochdar, Ardnamonie, Ardivacher, Ardmor, Creagorry, Liniclate, Liniclate School, Torlum.

Wednesday Aug 19 Paper/Card Aug 5 Blue Bin Eriskay, Glendale, Kilbride, Smerclate, Garrynamonie, South Lochboisdale, Daliburgh Commercials, Daliburgh West of Borrodale Hotel, South Boisdale, North Boisdale, Kilphedar, Strome, Rangehead, DI, IOBHH. Thursdays August 6, 20 Residual Locheport, Berneray, ClachanSands, Vallique, Lochportain, Cheesebay, Blashaval, Minish, Lochmaddy Commercials, Bayhead, Paible, Claddach, Clachan, Carinish, Balivanich.

$ ZRUOG RI FKRLFH Start your journey, whether for business or pleasure, at your local airport. Book through on one ticket to your ďŹ nal destination – wherever in the world that may be.

Sumburgh

Via Glasgow from: %DUUD %HQEHFXOD &DPSEHOWRZQ ,VOD\ RU 7LUHH

Kirkwall

Via Edinburgh or Aberdeen from:

Wick John O’Groats Stornoway

:LFN -RKQ 2p*URDWV

Via Inverness, Edinburgh, Glasgow or Aberdeen from:

Benbecula

6XPEXUJK .LUNZDOO RU 6WRUQRZD\

Via Amsterdam, Gatwick or Manchester from: ,QYHUQHVV

Inverness Barra Tiree Dundee

Via London City from: 'XQGHH

Islay Campbeltown

hial.co.uk Island News & Advertiser is published by Island News & Advertiser Ltd, Room 7, East Camp, Balivanich, Isle of Benbecula, HS7 5LA Printed by Cumbrian Newsprint, Newspaper House, Dalston Road, Carlisle CA2 5UA