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island news GOOD LUCK KERRY Edition 27

July 2014

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Commonwealth Games Wednesday July 29, Cathkin Braes, Glasgow continue with Triathlon, and switched to cycling. Grit, determination, discipline- Kerry applied these in spades as she trained tirelessly and competed all over Europe to get the timings needed to make the Team Scotland squad.

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We also take our hats off to coach Mairi Levack of NUAAC for her complete commitment not only Kerry but all the kids of the club.

Up until May, she fitted this around three jobs to fund it all, working for Alzheimers

Scotland, teaching PE at Beaconhurst School, coaching with Stirling triathlon club, not to mention volunteering and media work. Kerry’s family will be at Cathkin Braes to see her on her big day. Dad Don said: “She has had an incredible climb from relative obscurity to the Scottish team, a roller coaster of highs and massive disasters. “We also take our hats off to coach Mairi Levack of NUAAC for her complete commitment not only Kerry but all the kids of the club.” Kerry’s younger brother Iain, 16, said: “Since Kerry’s had the goal of achieving a place in the games, anytime I speak to her I always tell her how much of an inspiration she is to me. I genuinely couldn’t

believe it when she told me [she had a place], but I always knew she’d do it. “She’s encouraged me to take up cycling by giving me her winter training bike - it’s awesome! I’m quite literally ‘fleeing’ on the road. I’m so proud of Kerry, and she knows it.”

Kerry, from the islands we salute you and wish you all the luck in the world at the Games.

World War 1 Centenary Service, Edinburgh,

Kerry MacPhee on a recent visit to Uist.

Hearts in mouth, butterflies in stomach, nerves, tension- it’s a big day for Team Scotland cross-country mountain biker Kerry MacPhee, her family and her Uist community of fans and supporters. For the wider Outer Hebrides too, as Kerry, from South Uist, is the first woman from the islands ever to have competed in the Commonwealth Games. She made it onto the Team Scotland squad less than a year after she decided to focus her athletics career on cycling. A promising athlete from the start, Kerry, 28, was nurtured at home by North Uist Amateur Athletics Club (NUAAC). She specialized in duathlon and triathlon up to the World Island Games last year where she was both individual Triathlon and Team Triathlon champion. After this high point she decided her swimming was not up to the mark to

10 August 2014 As part of the events to mark the centenary of World War One, a nationwide Drumhead Service has been arranged by the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, to take place on Sunday 10th August 2014 at 10.30 a.m. at Edinburgh Castle. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has been given 26 tickets to distribute to community representatives to attend the Service, and the Comhairle would like to invite all communities in the Western Isles to submit nominations; the service organisers have expressed a desire to achieve a balance in

terms of age, gender, nationality and occupation to reflect the contribution made by communities to the First World War. Representatives from the Armed Services, veterans, cadets or Service charities will receive separate invitations and need not be nominated. Travel and accommodation costs must be met by those attending the event, but the Comhairle will make a contribution to costs, by reimbursing receipted expenditure of £100.00 to each ticket holder, as requested.

Nominations should be sent to:

The Chief Executive, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Sandwick Road, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis or by e-mail to: ann.ross@cne-siar.gov.uk by Friday 11 July 2014 More information about the Scottish Commemorations Programme can be found at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/About/Review/ WW1-Commemoration-Panel

Kerry MacPhee competing in Belgium. Danny Zelck

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island news & ADVERTISER - July 2014 Issue 27

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His actions left us feeling like some sort of vagrants! The sad thing is we had identified the Kilbride Campsite as one we would use but as a result of his action that day we will not use it and will not We are regular visitors to both the Western Isles and recommend it to our friends and family. Outer Hebrides often more than once a year. When This man should learn from other businesses in the using your self-catering establishments our party area who not only make campervan visitors feel very often numbers 10 and at other times it is just our two welcome but provide excellent services i.e.The selves in our campervan. Each time we visit we Polochar Inn where the service and food were both contribute to the local economy in many different ways. excellent ; The Lochboisdale Café who have to be congratulated on their good range of Gluten Free We feel we have to write regarding our recent choices along with providing Internet facilities and experience while visiting South Uist in our not forgetting the Calmac Ferry Terminals campervan. After driving all day we had drawn off throughout the islands who provide various facilities the road near Ludag for a rest before going for dinner. A man approached us and asked us to move to make life easier for campervan travellers i.e. showers, drinking water and chemical toilet disposal on stating that he had invested a lot of money in the points. Thank you all. local campsite and “ it was not good for business if we were seen sitting at the side of the road”. We are very aware that not all like the fact the

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News from Iochdair Junior Youth Club

On Saturday June 7, Iochdair Junio r Youth Club held their annual trip which started off with doing the two miles fast track in the Benbecula Half Marathon - thank you to the BHM committee for a well organised race - we then head ed off by bus to Langass Woodland to see Herc ules the Bear

which the children really enjoyed but we were all attacked by the dreaded midges. We then made our way to Lochmaddy Hotel where we had a lovely meal - thanks to all the staff of the hotel for looking after us so well. Thank you to Uist Celtic Supporters Club for their donation towa rds this trip. The Club also ran a very successful Scott ish Cycling Training Scheme with all 14 parti cipants passing their cycle test. Congratulations to David Bird, Isla MacD onald, Joanna MacDonald, Racheal Paterson, Chloe & Kian Humberstone, Abby MacPhee, Ross MacAulay, Ross MacRury, Hamish MacDonald, Ailig MacDonald, Luke Allcott, Domhall A MacQueen and Angus MacDonald.

Curracag Photography Competition 2014 We were really impressed with the high standard of entries to the Photographic Competition last year, writes Matthew Topsfield of Curracag. So this year we are giving you free reign and a chance to really impress us with your keen eye and our special wildlife and places. We are inviting entries on any theme of your choosing, so get there out and take some snaps of your favourite species, habitats or landscapes and share them with us. Please read the Photography Competition 2014 information and rules, which are available at: www.curracag.org.uk/competition A paper copy can be obtained from Museum nan Eilean, Isle of Benbecula or by contacting Matthew Topsfield at 12 Griminish, Isle of Benbecula, HS7 5QA, 07775 812036, maxwell_topside@hotmail.co.uk. You can submit as many photographs as you want. The closing date for entries is midnight on Tuesday 30th September 2014. Entries should preferably be sent as digital image files to: maxwell_topside@hotmail.co.uk Print

island news

campervans occasionally camp “offsite” but that is very much part of the enjoyment being able to soak up the sights and sounds of the islands on your own and one we would hope to continue for many years to come. When we do this we make sure that we leave the place as we found it and in some cases we have even removed rubbish left by others whether it be locals or visitors. We always make a point of supporting whatever local businesses are in that area. Judging by the number of campervans we see when visiting they must undoubtedly boost the local economy and should be encouraged and not discouraged by one man’s selfish attitude.

Another Green Flag for Iochdar school

Christian? Churchgoer?

Iochdar primary had a visit from Eco-Schools last month and was awarded its third Green Flag. It is given for excellence in environmental action by the school. Iochdar received its first Green Flag in 2009. entries will also be accepted, sent to: Curracag Photography Competition, 12 Griminish, Isle of Benbecula, HS7 5QA. Photography Competition winners will be announced at the opening ceremony of the photograph exhibition to be held at Museum nan Eilean, Isle of Benbecula in autumn 2014 (date TBC) and on the Curracag website and Facebook page. The exhibition will also travel throughout the Western Isles.

for Gaelic signage and information orts Highlands & Islands aie, Gaelrpic awa reness training for ched a Regional airports group HIAL has laun . Plan uage Lang ic new five year Gael by The plan outlines a series of measures ic HIAL to support and promote the Gael the with line in re, cultu language and the aspirations and objectives set out in . Plan uage Lang ic National Gael ual Proposals include the creation of a biling airport HIAL logo, increased use of Gaelic in ns and signage, terminal information scree

The Youth Club Committee are very grateful to PC Sandra, PC Ross and PC Elizabeth for all their help and assistance with this but a huge than k you to Donna MacLeod who put all the child ren through their five week training session before they sat their cycle test. Donna is pictured with all the children after receiving their certificates. The youth club committee would like to thank the community, staff of Iochdair Scho ol and Parents for all their support over the last year but the biggest thanks goes to all the children that turn up for youth club each week.

onlin of frontline staff, and the appointment Gaelic language ambassadors. s, In common with other public authoritie rnment HIAL is required by the Scottish Gove r to produce a Gaelic Language Plan unde land) the terms of the Gaelic Language (Scot Act 2005. onal The plan has been approved by nati Gaelic agency Bòrd na Gàidhlig.

As this edition of Island News & Advertiser went to print, we heard of the untimely passing of William Kenneth Morrison of Locheport, North Uist.

Got questions about what independence means for you? Let’s talk.

Join us for a discussion with a panel of Christians who are supporting a Yes vote in September’s referendum. All welcome.

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Tues 15th July Castlebay School Wed 16th July Southend Com. Hall Thurs 17th July Sgoil Lionacleit Fri 18th July Aros Centre Portree All at 7.30pm

Free entry

Flùraichean Mhàiri Your Florist in Uist Full range from bouquets to wreaths Every occasion catered for ● Delivery from Berneray to Barra ● ●

Willie was manager of haulier D R MacLeod’s Uist depot, and a popular and well - respected figure in our community. We extend our sincere condolences to all Willie’s family, friends and colleagues.

tel: 01878 700320 264 Daliburgh, South Uist, HS8 5SS macleodmairi2@googlemail.com www.uistflorist.co.uk

July 2014 Issue 27 - island news & ADVERTISER

Lochmaddy marina boosts local economy A steady influx of yachts into the new Lochmaddy Marina has seen a noticeable boost to the local economy, according to businesses in the village. A 26 berth pontoon and bridge were installed in Lochmaddy Bay this spring, thanks to a local management agreement between Comann Na Mara (CNM), Uist’s Society of the Sea, and The Crown Estate. Since then yachts of all sizes have come in from Europe and the UK, some staying several nights. Lochmaddy Hotel is a short walk over the pontoons. Manager Lorna Docherty said: “The yachties are happy to be able to stroll over to the hotel, use the shower we make available for them, and have a meal and some drinks knowing it’s a short walk right back to their boat. “The feedback from them has been really positive.”

Morrison’s shop has also seen a boost from the marina. Roddy John Morrison said: “With nine or ten yachts in every night, we’ve noticed a difference, they could spend £150 in a day.” Cruise liners have also dropped anchor in the bay, tendering passengers to the pontoons to go ashore for bus trips. Lochmaddy resident David Bleakley has been appointed by CNM to welcome the visiting yachts and collect fees. A portakabin has now been installed for office and laundry facilities, and a fuel cage is in position to supply gas bottles. CNM chairman Gus Macaulay said: “I hope the pontoons will act as an inspiring catalyst

North Uist dropped off the baton route As the islands get ready to welcome the Queens Baton Relay (QBR) news that the baton won’t travel through North Uist has left local residents dismayed. The baton lands in Barra on Monday July 7 and will travel north on Tuesday July 8 to Benbecula, where it will be flown to St Kilda, and returned to Tarbert, Harris to resume the relay. Lochmaddy athlete Katlyn MacLellan, 16, is the only baton bearer from North Uist and will be the last person to carry the baton in Benbecula before it heads for the airport.

nominating process for local batonbearers, however, only one person from North Uist was nominated and it was agreed that it would be better for the individual to join Baton Bearer Joseph another part of the route.”

The baton will be piped off the plane in Barra on Monday July 7 ready for the relay start at 4.29pm. There will be a mass Strip the Willow in The Square/Pier Road.

Baton Bearer Katlyn MacLellan

Katlyn’s mother Jackie said she felt it was a shame that the baton was missing out North Uist and Berneray in favour of St Kilda. Mrs MacLellan said: “A lot of people here are disappointed about that, especially as we have North Uist Amateur Athletics club here, a club which does so much for the youngsters and has produced so many fine athletes.” A spokesman for Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar said: “Awareness was raised across all communities in the Western Isles on the

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The Relay continues to Stornoway, with the detour from Benbecula to St Kilda, on Tuesday July 8, with the following community events along the way.

Relay start - 10.39am

Mini Relays and athletics events

Commonwealth Games Sports Challenges – badminton and bowls

Uist Riding School Display

Dance display – Arts activities and Face Painting

Macleans BAKERY, BENBECULA

Butchery counter featuring local meat Fine local fish and seafood

Tarbert Rally Park 2pm - 4pm G

Relay start - 3.27pm

Dance performance

BodyWorks Busking – interactive science display by Glasgow Science Centre

The Marathon Storytelling Cycle Challenge – Tam Dean Burn and friends perform stories Julia Donaldson

possible sense then give me a ring, for we together must build on our early success and create a desirable and inviting facility that will attract the local, national and international yachting fraternity. They have choices therefore we must be unique.”

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!

Lionel Spòrs Nis 3pm - 6.30pm Baton Bearer Paul Morrison

Daliburgh School 8.30am - 10.45am G

Relay start - 9.20am

Commonwealth Games ‘Big Breakfast’

Dance and musical performances and family sports activities

providing ongoing opportunities for all throughout our community, coastal and inland. “People should be thinking how could I contribute to or benefit from this marina? So if you have an idea related to marine tourism in the widest

Sgoil Lionacleit 10.15am - 12pm

MacInnes

Meanwhile, the council has arranged community engagement events across the islands to celebrate the relay.

Lochmaddy Marina.

Queen’s Baton Relay to be held on school football field

Relay start - 5.53pm

Family day with loads of sports activities and fun events.

Queen’s Baton Relay to be held on road up to Butt of Lewis lighthouse at 5.53pm

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

Stornoway, Perceval Sq 6.15pm - 10pm G

Relay start - 7.23pm

Bands

Commonwealth Youth Circus

Lochmaddy and Paible pupils enjoy mainland trip P6 and 7 pupils from Lochmaddy and Paible schools got together for a hectic trip to the mainland last month. The eighteen children with their teachers enjoyed a packed itinerary based in Glasgow including bowling, a swim in the Commonwealth pool and other fitness events, a visit to Hampden Park with a glimpse into the Royal Box - a bit dusty, the children said - and a tour in a Glasgow Sightseeing Bus. Another highlight was a trip to

Edinburgh to visit the Scottish Parliament, and have a tour round with Isles MSP Alasdair Allan. Pupil Ann Marie MacDonald of Lochmaddy said: “It was really interesting, we went into the Chamber for a while and they were all shouting about independence.” It was the first mainland trip undertaken by the primaries in many years, with the funds for it raised by the parents. There was enough to go round for a day trip to Adventure Island in Stornoway for the 37 younger pupils from the two schools.

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island news & ADVERTISER - July 2014 Issue 27

Sterling efforts of Uist volunteers recognised Countless hours of selfless volunteering by members of the Uist community were recognised last month in an Awards Ceremony organised by the Volunteer Centre Western Isles. Volunteer of the Year was John MacDonald, Lochmaddy who works for many local groups and causes - thirteen at the last count. His nominees said of him: “He is undoubtedly one of the star volunteers in Scotland…he is constantly helping to improve the village.” John is on many committees, including Comann Na Mara, Lochmaddy Hall, and Comann Eachdraidh Uibhist a Tuath. This year he has been concentrating on getting North Uist War Memorial back up to scratch. He’s also a coastguard officer; he takes water samples off Lochmaddy Pier for SEPA and he does family trees and archiving for Taigh Chearsabhagh. John, 52, who has been a port assistant with CalMac for the past ten years, said he was amazed to win the award. He said: “When you saw the folk I was against, they all do so much. I don’t do it for thanks, but because I like to keep busy, getting to know folk and having a laugh. Sitting inside doing computer games isn’t for me, I like to be out and about.” John is currently involved through Lochmaddy Hall with a project close to his heartgetting a swing park for the kids. He said: “When I was young there was so much for us, youth clubs, play parks, badminton. I feel there is less for them now.”

John also praised the many volunteers he knows. He said: “All my CalMac colleagues are involved in volunteering and they have families, which I don’t.”

John MacDonald, Volunteer of the Year.

Cleaning, preparing, getting raffle prizes, helping out until all hours - nothing is too much bother for Shona. She said: “I enjoy helping, I love the company of people. I didn’t expect to be nominated, let alone win. It’s nice to be appreciated, but I enjoy doing it.” Also presented were two Clisham awards which recognise ‘the outstanding achievement made by exceptional volunteers. This can be for long term commitment over many years or for going the extra mile and achieving something truly special.’ The description fits the half century of work by Alastair MacDonald of Ahmor, North Uist on behalf of his crofting community.

Shona MacKay, Young Volunteer of the Year.

Young Volunteer of the Year went to Shona MacKay, 22, of Garrahellie, South Uist. She comes from a family of committed volunteers and was asked to join her first committee at 15. That was Ceolas, and she has worked tirelessly for the organisation ever since. Shona, a senior nursery practitioner at Cothrom, also puts in many hours for Feis Tir a Mhurain, St Peter’s Hall and The Island Youth Project.

Alastair MacDonald, Clisham Award

Now 82, he joined the North Uist Agricultural Society committee in 1954 and as his nominees said, “He has worked tirelessly to ensure the continued success and development of the show...He has encouraged and been a role model to generations of crofters young and old alike with his enthusiasm and knowledge of crofting.” Mr MacDonald (pictured) followed in the footsteps of his grandfather Donald MacDonald of Dusaraidh who was on the committee in the early 1900s. He has been president of the society for a total of five years, with his daughter Flora working for NUAS as treasurer for 20 years. Now his grandson Ruaraidh is also on the committee. “Organising the show is quite a bit of work,” Mr MacDonald said. “I can’t ever remember missing a show in fifty years.” Bill Armour of Balivanich (pictured) also received a Clisham Award for extraordinary work on behalf of the East Camp Horticultural Project. Organisation of the year was Taigh Sgire Sholais, the former Dunskellar school in Bill Armour, Clisham Award. Sollas, North Uist.

Cadets remember St Valery and Dunkirk Western Isles army cadets paid their annual tribute to

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the fallen of St Valery & Dunkirk with a parade to the war memorial in Griminish, Benbecula. The Western Isles Company, 1st Battalion the Highlanders under the command of Major Norman Macleod marched on the memorial, led by cadet members of Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band. The event, now in its 14th year on the islands, commemorates the Battle for St Valery-en-Caux in June 1940, when the Germans outflanked the Allies and trapped the 51st Highland Division with great loss of life. Many of the fallen were from the Outer Hebrides,

serving in the Seaforths and Cameron Highlanders. The commemoration service was led by Rev Roddy McKinnon and Rev Fraser Stewart. Connor Morrison of West Lewis detachment (pictured) laid a wreath at the memorial, and piper Norman Johnson played the lament.

First communion for children of Benbecula Jon Hearach

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Benbecula youngsters received their first Holy Communion at St Mary’s Griminish on June 15. The twelve children first attended Mass and received the

sacrament from Fr Ross Crichton. They then processed with the Blessed Sacrament outside the church for prayers and a benediction.

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July 2014 Issue 27 - island news & ADVERTISER

Two archaeologists working in museum development have expressed their concerns over proposals to transform ideas for an archaeological study and interpretation centre in North Uist housing the finds from the Udal site into a centre for the study of climate change. The Hebridean Archaeological and Environmental Research Centre (HAERC) is a proposal led by Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar to create a ‘world-class’ facility in Uist to study the links between archaeology, geology, ecology and climatology. Archaeologist Dr Helen Bradley, museum development officer and heritage tourism officer for Conway, and Dr Sarah McCarthy freelance heritage consultant and project officer both attended a public meeting in Sollas

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Concerns expressed over Udal proposals

three months ago where the community was told that the idea for an archaeology centre would not attract funding, but the creation of a world-class ‘living laboratory’ for the study of climate change in this particular coastal area of Europe and hinged on the 5,000 year continuous occupation of the Udal site would find more favour with funders. A brief was to be developed for a feasibility study to be put out to tender last month, and the community’s views were invited. Dr Bradley, who lived and worked in South Uist for some ten years, said she was taken aback when the change of direction was broken to the public under the guise of community engagement.

‘‘

If the outcome is to be world-class, then the scope and approach throughout has to be world class.

Dr Helen Bradley on a visit to Uist.

She said: “There is a difference between engaging with and informing the community. It seemed to be a fait accompli.” Dr Bradley, who has a Masters in landscape archaeology looking at peripheral island communities, said the brief given for the feasibility study was ‘a very brief brief.’ She said: “Any consultant worth their salt would say there were two ideas there, not necessarily mutually exclusive, but that it presents a huge challenge to create one idea out of two.” Dr Bradley urged the community to continue to engage with the project. She said: “Don’t be disheartened, go to the meetings, become actively involved and invest your time. Don’t take a step back or it could be a wasted opportunity.” Dr McCarthy said she had consulted with former colleague Dr David Prince of cultural

project planning consultants, Price & Pearce and they both felt that the three month period allocated to the feasibility study and its large scope were ‘not achievable.’ She added: “We estimate that a comprehensive study, worthy of the overall long-term aims and taking into account its importance to the future of the place would take about ten months.” She said: “We feel that this is too important a project to mess around with a tiny budget and inadequate resources in the scoping, feasibility and planning stages, especially as there seem to be very high expectations of the outcomes. “If the outcome is to be world-class, then the scope and approach throughout has to be world class.”

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

HOLTHAM The family of John Holtham wish to thank all friends and neighbours for their kind support and help following the death of John. Special thanks go to all the medical and back up teams both in the Uist and Bara Hospital, Griminish surgery and the community nurses for their advice, caring and support throughout John’s illness. Also thank you to Angus Macphee for the funeral and crematorium arrangements. A very special thank you to Tracy who gave excellent care to John right to the end, and to the Warner family without whom we could not have managed. Thank you all. Pat, Carol and Sarah.

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island news & ADVERTISER - July 2014 Issue 27

Overcome your fear of flying

St Brendan’s Hospital community event Friday August 1 10am – 12.30pm Barra Learning Centre

3 sessions or less G rapid and lasting results G online/telephone sessions available

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Drop in session for the public to ask health and social care staff any questions about the project.

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Tel. 07502223839

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Lunch served 12 - 2 Breakfast Served 07:30 to 09:30

Spring Castlebay Hotel Has now opened their Hotel lounge Monday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm for Speciality Coffees and Teas and Lattes, Cappuccinos, Americano, Espressos along with a fine selection of home made and fabulous cakes and scones.

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

Lunch also served from noon to 2pm.

Tel 01851 702 272 E-Mail: macneila@parliament.uk

Ask about our Loyalty card (Buy 4 lunches and get the 5th one Free)

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Breakfast is also being served from 7:30am to 9:30am Monday to Sunday

Tel: 01870 603377

Recycling Service Update The Comhairles’s Zero Waste Team would like to thank the residents and visitors in the Western Isles for their continued support and commitment to recycling. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar offer recycling facilities throughout the islands, so no matter what area you are in, there should be a recycling bank situated nearby for you to use. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar are introducing a new colour separated glass recycling service throughout Uist. This new service will allow householders, and visitors, to recycle glass bottles and jars in purpose built recycling banks, which allows the disposal of separate coloured glass. By keeping the glass colour separated it will allow the material to be sent away to the mainland for re-melt, saving valuable resources by reducing the raw materials required in manufacturing new glass. These banks will be located at strategic points throughout Uist, allowing access to all householders and visitors. The provision of these new Glass Only banks has been fully funded by a grant from Zero Waste Scotland to allow the Comhairle to develop recycling services in Uist. These banks can be found at : Berneray, Lochmaddy, Sollas, Bayhead, Clachan, Waste Transfer Station Market Stance, C.A. Site Rueval, Balivanich, Creagorry, Iochdar, Stoneybridge, Daliburgh, Lochboisdale and Eriskay.

Household Recycling Service YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT GOES INTO EACH BIN

Mixed Recycling Bin

Yes

Plastic drink & milk bottles G Shampoo & Detergent bottles G Margarine tubs & Yogurt pots G Food tins & Drinks cans & Aerosols Please rinse and remove lids

Expanded Polystyrene (e.g insulated cups and food trays) G Scrap metal or Car parts G Textiles G Foil wrapping paper

Paper & Card Bin

Yes

Newspapers/Books/Magazines/ Envelopes G Cardboard G Junk mail & Brochures & Binders

No G

Food Waste Garden Waste G Glass or Metals G Plastic or Wood G

ZERO WASTE WESTERN ISLES Helpline 01870 604998

July 2014 Issue 27 - island news & ADVERTISER

Marie Curie overnight nurses for the isles will help terminally ill patients to stay at home The charity Marie Curie Cancer Care and NHS Western Isles have entered into an arrangement to improve overnight care at home for terminally ill patients on the islands. Marie Curie will appoint and pay for two Registered Nurses and one Health Care Assistant to provide overnight care for residents in North and South Uist including Benbecula and Barra. The posts are bank staff, on zero hours contracts. The charity says this is the first step in a larger service which will also provide care to residents on Lewis and Harris, forming the Marie Curie

Western Isles service. Recruitment to posts based in Lewis and Harris is underway. All posts are bank staff, to deliver care as and when needed, the charity says. Marie Curie Clinical Nurse Manager Lynne Miller said: “The three new nurses will complement existing services to offer patients with a terminal illness and their families the choice to receive high quality care at

Fraser is made MBE

home, where they tell us they most want to be. “Recruitment for seven further posts is underway and following successful appointments, we’ll be delivering a full service to the Western Isles.” NHS Western Isles Nurse Director, Sandy Brown, said: “Having Marie Curie Nurses to call on to help patients and families, in addition to our own staff, will be invaluable to many families.”

me to Buckingham Palace to collect the medal.” “My message to any young people in the Outer Hebrides would be to just find something you love, focus on being the best in the world at that one thing. If you can do that, with some hard work and imagination, it can change your life.” Gordon MacDonald of CnES Include-Us originally arranged for Fraser to visit Uist. He said: “I am pleased Fraser has been honoured with an MBE. He is an excellent role model, starting such a successful business at a young age. “Bringing him here was an excellent opportunity to promote entrepreneurship within our young people. The pupils at Castlebay Community School will be hosting one of Fraser’s SuperJam Tea Parties for the elderly as part of the enterprise activities I have been delivering, promoting business ethics to the pupils.”

Stuart climbs every mountain for Linda Hill runner and national canoeist Stuart Simpson is resting his legs after completing his Midsummer Madness challenge to raise funds for the Linda Norgrove Foundation. The 44 year old Comhairle worker Stuart at the top of decided to run the Beinn Mhor. highest hill on every Courtesy of Lorna MacLeod. inhabited island in the Outer Hebrides in one day. Setting out from Vatersay at 05.41am on Saturday June 21, he completed the challenge at 01.50 on Sunday morning. His day included twelve hills, eight hours of running and forty minutes of canoeing to get to North Uist’s

Eaval and back. Stuart faced climbs of 30m (Berneray) to 799m (Clisham). He just missed the Berneray-Leverburgh ferry, causing an unplanned two hour delay in Uist and putting back his completion time. Undaunted, he ploughed on and even dropped in on the Norgrove family at 5am after completing the challenge. He has raised more than £800 from the challenge, with his virginmoneygiving page, Stuart Simpson, still open for donations this month. Stuart’s next race is Up the Clisham, a 5.5km hill race he has organised with Sean Z of the Scaladale Centre, Harris. It takes place on Saturday July 12. Registration at the centre starts 1.30. Race starts from the bottom of the Clisham at 3pm. More on the Scottish Hill Runners Website.

Anne Bird The band had a great weekend going to the British Pipe Band Championships in Bathgate at the end of May. SLPB at Bathgate. With over 140 pipe bands attending, it was a huge event with all the buzz and excitement of the World Pipe Band Championships. The band played very well and although they did not make the final round, they received some positive feedback from the judges which they can apply to their performance at their next competition which is the European Pipe Band Championships on June 28. Fundraising in June continued with a bake sale followed by a Piping Recital hosted by Calum Morrison and showcasing local man Lachie Dick in the Dark Island Hotel on 13th. An appreciative audience were delighted by Lachie and by other solo performers ranging from promising chanter players to accomplished young pipers from the community. Highland dancers and musicians from Sgoil Lionacleit also contributed and the SLPB Committee are very grateful to all the performers and to the Dark Island Hotel for providing a venue. The band also gave a rousing send off to several teachers from Sgoil Lionacleit when they performed at a retirement dinner held at Stepping Stones Restaurant. Practice continues apace for the ‘Europeans’, also known as ‘Piping Hot Forres’. The band and their helpers will travel to Forres to participate in this prestigious event. The championship will be attended by bands from all over the world including Switzerland, Ireland, Australia and the US.

Iain MacPhee with Fraser Doherty on his vist to Sgoil Lionacleit.

Uist extends congratulations to Superjam entrepreneur Fraser Doherty who was made an MBE for services to business in the Queen’s Birthday Honours last month. Fraser visited Sgoil Lionacleit last year to tell pupils about his Superjam enterprise and to inspire them to think about setting up their own business. He remains in touch with the school and is mentoring pupil Iain MacPhee in his book rest business, BukPal. Iain said: “I congratulated Fraser through Twitter saying ‘Massive congrats on achieving an MBE! I’m inspired. Well done’ and he responded with ‘Hi Iain, thanks and I hope business is good for you. All the best!’ “I’m genuinely inspired by Fraser as he has started a global business, all from just a tiny kitchen. He has really given be a boost on what the potential scale of business I can achieve.” Fraser said: “I am really delighted to have been given an MBE by the Queen. I don’t do what I do to win awards or recognition, I just do it because it’s what I love to do. My gran is particularly delighted, she’ll be coming with

Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band news

The event is also host to the World Tattie Scone Championship, but band members will be discouraged from having too many of those before they have played their set.

House Plots 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 overlooking Vallay Strand. They all have outline planning permission and

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are not subject to crofting restrictions.

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

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

island news & ADVERTISER - July 2014 Issue 27

Gàidhlig/Gaelic Gaidhlig/Gaelic ‘s Bochd Nach Eil Marag Dhubh ‘s Tennent’s Aca Cailean Methven

Rugadh agus thogadh mi ann an Dùn Eideann ach as dèidh dhomh crìoch a chur air a’ cheum agam aig an oilthigh an sin bha mi airson dùthaich dhiofraichte fhacinn, cànan eile ionnsachadh agus blas de chultar eile fhaotainn.

Cailean air Turas Dhachaigh / Cailean On a Trip Home

Bha mi air mo bheò-ghlacadh leis an Eadailt on a bha mi òg; a’ ghrìan, an stoidhle agus am fasan, an dòigh aca a bhith a’ bruidhinn (gu h-àraidh leis na làmhan aca!), pasta agus tiramisu, cofaidh agus fìon dearg, air neo an dolce vita mar a tha acasan air! Mar sin landaig mi ann an Naples, baile mòr aig ceann a deas na h-Eadailt a tha ainmeil airson pizza, am mafia, Diego Maradona, agus am Vesuvius. Bha fios agam nach robh cliù sgràthail fhèin math aig a’ bhaile agus gur e àite car cunnartach a bh’ ann ach bha mi air obair a lorg agus bha mi airson fheuchainn co-dhiù. gliocas na h-òigridh, mar a chanas ‘ad! Anns a’ chiad dol a-mach, bha mi an dùil sia mìosan a dhèanamh agus an uairsin tilleadh dhachaigh, ach tha còig bliadhnaichean air a dhol seachad is mar sin feumaidh gu bheil rudeigin gam chumail an seo! ‘S fìor thoil leam am baile fhèin,‘s toil leam a bhith a’ dol dhan mhargaid gach latha gus bargan a shireadh,‘s toil leam a bhith a’ gabhail na grèine anns a’ Ghiblean agus ‘s toil leam a bhith a’ coimhead air na daoine a bhios a’ dràibheadh scooter fhad’s a bhios iad a’ smòcadh agus a’ bruidhinn air a’ mhobile aca aig an aon àm! Uaireannan bidh cianalas orm, bidh mi ag ionndrainn an teaghlach agam agus am baile far a thogadh mi. Gu math tric ‘s e na rudan beaga a bhios mi ag ionndrainn, rudan caran neònach a leithid marag dhubh, deagh phinnt Tennent’s ann an taigh-òsta blàth le teine, agus fiù ‘s, bho àm gu àm, an sneachda! A dh’aindeoin seo tha mi toilchte a bhith ann an Naples, tha mi cinnteach gun till mi dhachaigh latha air choreigin, ach tha am bella vita a’ còrdadh leam glan an-dràsta!

PITY THEY Slighe Eimilidh HAVEN’T Bha mi a’ fuireach ann an Uibhist bho aoisean 2 gu GOT 12. B’ ann à Sasainn a bha mo mhàthair ‘s cha BLACK robh Gàidhlig aice nuair a PUDDING ghluais sinn. AND TENNENT’S Eimilidh Downes

Deagh Chupa Tì’ / A Good Cup of Tea

Ach a dh’aindeoin sin bha i ag iarraidh gum bithinn air mo bhogadh san dualchas Uibhisteach. Bha mo mhàthair ag obair san ospadal agus mar sin bhiodh teaghlaichean le Gàidhlig a’ coimhead as mo dhèidh, agus mar a tha clann buailteach, cha robh e fada mus do thog mi an cànan. Chaidh mi gu foghlam tro mheadhon na Gàidhli aig aois 4. Mar sin, bha a h-uile leasan, nam measg matamataig s cruinn-eòlas tron Ghàidhlig. Bha seo cho nàdarra dhomh aig an àm,‘s chuir e iongnadh orm gun robh cuid air an ionnsachadh tron Bheurla.

Cailean Methven

I was born and raised in Edinburgh, but on finishing my studies at the university there I wanted to see another country, learn a new language, and sample a different culture. I had been fascinated by Italy since I was young; the sun, the style and fashion, their way of speaking (especially with their hands!), pasta and tiramisu, coffee and red wine, or the dolce vita as they call it! And so I landed in Naples, a large city in the south of Italy which is famous for pizza, the mafia, Diego Maradona, and the Vesuvius. I knew that the city didn’t have a great reputation and that it was quite a dangerous place but I wanted to give it a go anyway… the wisdom of youth, as they say. Initially I planned to stay here for 6 months before heading back home, but 5 years have gone by and so there must be something that is keeping me here! I really love the city, I like going to the market each day and searching for a bargain, I like being able to sunbathe in April, and I like watching people driving on scooters while smoking and talking on their mobile phone at the same time. Sometimes I feel homesick, and I miss my family and the city where I grew up. Often it is the small things that I miss, strange things like black pudding, a pint of Tennent’s in a pub with a fire, and even, from time to time, the snow! Despite this, I am happy in Naples. I’m sure I’ll come back home one day, but for the moment I’m enjoying the bella vita just fine!

B’ fhìor thoil leam a bhith a’ seinn aig mòdan ‘s cèilidhean. Sin an rud a tha air leth math mun na h-eileanan, tha thu a’ faireachdainn gu bheil thu nad phàirt de theaghlach mòr. Bha e gu math neònach dhomh tilleadh a Shasainn an toiseach. Bha an àireamh de sgoilearan anns an sgoil agam le cho mòr leis an àireamh a tha a’ fuireach ann an Uibhist. Rinn cànain ciall dhomh,‘s tha mi cinnteach gun do chuidich e mi gun deach mo thogail leis a’ Ghàidhlig. B’ fhìor thoil leam Fraingis, a rinn mi còmhla ri Gearmailtis. Nuair a bha mi nam dheugan fhuair mi cothrom mo Fhraingis a chleachdadh ann am Pàrlamaid na h-Òigridh ‘s mo Ghearmailtis aig bùthan-obrach phoilitigeach san dùthaich sin. Aig an àm seo, tha mi ag obair ann an àrachas, ach bu toil leam a bhith ag obair sna h-ealain.Tha tuilleadh siubhail fainear dhomh cuideachd, ‘s b’fhìor thoil leam Uibhist fhaicinn a-rithist latha air choireigin.

EMILY’S JOURNEY Emily Downes

I lived on South Uist from the ages of 2 to 12. My mother was English and didn’t have any Gaelic when we first moved. Nonetheless, she was keen that I become immersed in the local culture. My mother worked at the hospital, so I was often looked after by Gaelicspeaking families, and as children do, I picked up the language quickly. I went straight into Gaelic-medium at age 4. That meant doing all my lessons, including maths and geography, through the medium of Gaelic. At the time, it seemed the norm, and in fact I remember being baffled that there were children being educated in English.

I loved singing in competitions and cèilidhs. That is one of the great things about the islands, there is an amazing sense of community and the whole place feels like a big extended family. I found it a massive culture shock to move back to England. At my school, the number of pupils equalled half the population of Uist. I soon settled in though, and languages made a lot of sense to me, which I credit completely to my Gaelic upbringing. I especially loved French which I studied alongside German. In my teens I had the opportunity to use my French at the European Youth Parliament and my German on a visit there to attend political workshops. I spent time travelling in Asia and Australia and then attended Sussex University where I graduated with a First in 2010, art being my passion. I am currently working in insurance, but my ultimate ambition is to have a paid job in the arts. More travelling is also planned, and I would love to see Uist again one day.

Tha ar duilleag cunbhalach dà-chànanach Gàidhling ’s Beurla air a thoirt thugaibh le taic bho Bhòrd na Gàidhlig Our regular Gaelic-English page is brought to you with the assistance of Bòrd na Gàidhlig. Deasaiche/Editor: Eairdsidh Caimbeul/Archie Campbell

July 2014 Issue 27 - island news & ADVERTISER

Sollas fly-in Pilots from around the country descended onto Sollas beach, North Uist for the annual fly-in. This year was the twelfth of the popular event, which has been renamed the John Macleod Memorial Fly-in in memory of its late founder. John MacLeod of Balallan,

Murray Kirkwood (left) and Melvaig MacKenzie.

Lewis was the dedicated organiser of the fly-in each year, inspiring and enthusing pilots everywhere he went and encouraging them to visit. The beach at Sollas is the only one in the UK available to general aviation for landing. This year a dozen planes The Piper Cub performed a special came in from around the fly-past to say farewell. UK, dodging low cloud and mist. From Inverness in a 1952 Piper Cub came fly-in regulars, pilot Melvaig MacKenzie, 68, and passenger Murray Kirkwood, 88, who learned to fly with the Fleet Air Arm in the United States in the last year of the war. Mr Mackenzie described his aircraft as a ‘rag and tube’. He said: “It is spectacular landing on the beach, but the

plane needs a good clean afterwards.” The swashbuckling pair gave a special low fly-past as they left to return to Inverness. The organisation of the event has been taken up by pilots Andrew Twort and his partner Claudine Bloom. The couple met the late John MacLeod through their mutual interest in flying, and their friendship led to John selling them his croft in Balallan. Andrew went solo 30 years ago, and Claudine 25 years ago. They have an ultra-modern tandem-seat Sky Arrow in Stornoway. Andrew said: “When John died we couldn’t let the fly-in fade out. It’s an honour to perpetuate the event for him, and Claudine Bloom, left, and Andrew Twort with for the family.” Joan MacDonald, sister of the late John MacLeod.

Isles school children pave the way Footpaths in Barra, Uist and Harris are set for a makeover by local school children in a project by Western Isles Support for the Environment (WISE). Pupils from Castlebay, Lionacleit and Sir E Scott secondary schools are taking part in a competition to select, survey, repair and maintain a local footpath. They will carry out the work during three or more planned events, with tools and support provided by WISE, led by project officer Angela Murphy.

Kenny, Hugh and Uilleam discuss their plans for the path.

Pupils from Sgoil Lionacleit have visited Lionacleit machair and Carinish woodland to select their path. On the machair, S2 pupils Uilleam Brass and Kenny MacKillop and S3 Hugh Paterson and Mata MacIsaac went with Angela Murphy and teacher Robbie Talloch to assess the possibilities of an overgrown footpath for the project. They were joined by Johanne Ferguson and Alasdair MacDonald of SNH and Jamie Boyle, RSPB to learn more of the flora and fauna of the area. The boys came away full of ideas. Kenny said: “It’s a good idea to get involved in making things better and get more people to come here. “They might think there’s not much here but we should put up an information board.”

(l to r) Jamie Boyle RSPB, Alastair MacDonald SNH, Hugh Paterson, Mata MacDonald, Angela Murphy, Robbie Talloch, Uilleam Brass, Johanne Ferguson SNH, Kenny MacKillop, and Wilson the dog.

Hugh said: “This will help tourism. We need to strim the nettles and level the ground.” Uilleam added: “We should put in a bench and dig the ditches.” Angela said she was pleased with the children’s reaction. She said: “It’s good to get them excited about what’s under their noses.”

Open wide for Childsmile 2014 This summer’s Childsmile campaign starts in Lochboisdale and Stornoway on this month and finishes in Barra in early August. Local dental practices last year received more than 1500 visits from isles children to have their teeth checked.

in Stornoway (01851 707500) and LochboisdaleDental Clinic in South Uist (01878 700257) – both for the week starting July 7.

Childsmile sets out to turn the dental clinic into a kids’ zone with children are encouraged to learn about oral hygiene through fun, play and activities,so that dental appointments become something to look forward to.

The following week (commencing July 14), Childsmile appointments will be held in Scalpay Dental Clinic (01859 540275).

This year, the first Childsmile Week events will take place in Western Isles Dental Clinic

In the week beginning July 21, Childsmile appointments will be held in Lochmaddy Dental Clinic in North Uist (01876 500242) and the following week (beginning July 28) appointments will be held

in Liniclate Dental Clinic in Benbecula (01870 602178). The final ChildsmileWeek will be held in Barra Dental Clinic (01871 810400) for the week beginning August 4. Don’t forget to phone your local dental clinic to make an appointment for your child!

Another group of pupils visited Carinish, North Uist to look at the possibility of sprucing up the path there. Angela said: “Again the pupils had lots of ideas about this path and found it hard to choose between the two. We’re looking at finding ways for them to do both, but only entering one into the competition.”

island news & ADVERTISER - July 2014 Issue 27

Fìor dhaoine, fìor bheatha - Real Real people, real lives lives

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A project that that brings briings people peop together around a shar sh ed d intter e est in n the history and nd cu culture off the Out Oute ter Heeb brides.

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A in An initiative th hat promot o tes e l eering a and develops ps IT ski p kills volunt within the com mmunity mmunity.

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A unique website, bringing tens off thousands of records from the th he islands’ historical societies tog o ether in one place.

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A vast resource where a worldwide rldwide rldwid audience can find out about abou u island ut islan nd people and their th way of lif ife in times mes gone by.

www.hebrideanconnections.com www .hebrideanconnections.com

islandnews & ADVERTISER

Your five page What’s On Guide for the month of July across the Hebrides DISCOVER AND RECORD LOCAL WILDLIFE Your chance to be a citizen scientist at the Island News & Advertiser BioBlitzes in North and South Uist. ‘Bio’ means life and ‘blitz’ means to do something quickly and intensively. Together they make BioBlitz, a fun event where you can join naturalists to survey all forms of life round about you. We’re holding two BioBlitzes, one at the South Uist & Benbecula Agricultural Show in Iochdar on Saturday July 26, and one at the North Uist Agricultural Show on Thursday July 31.

Come to the IN&A stall, take a net and catch insects in the neighbouring fields. Local naturalists and scientists will be on hand to help you identify what you’ve caught. They’ll tell you about the flowers and birds in the area too. Everything you spot is recorded for the Outer Hebrides Biological Recording project, so you’ll be making a real contribution to knowledge of the flora and fauna of the islands. Talking Science UHI will also be there with everything from electronic microscopes to badge-making machines. It’s fun and free. Holidaying naturalists/scientists are more than welcome to drop by and share their expertise at the BioBlitzes!

SATURDAY JULY 26 from 11am

SOUTH UIST & BENBECULA AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY SHOW Iochdar showground

Uist Community Riding School Balivanich, Isle of Benbecula

THURSDAY JULY 31 from 11am

NORTH UIST AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY SHOW Hosta showground

BHS-approved ●

Open all year for all ages and abilities

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Beach rides and paddles, lessons, fun days in or out

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Indoor riding school

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Qualified staff

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Large selection of well-trained horses and ponies

Booking essential

Contact: 01870 602808 info@ridehebrides.org www.ridehebrides.org

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE - WESTERN ISLES CAMPERS

Pick up a campervan when you arrive and explore the islands YOUR way You’ve decided to come to the Hebrides, the most unspoiled area of Britain. You want to leave your cares on the mainland and lose yourself in the sights and sounds of the islands, the endless beaches, the flower meadows, the peaty moors. Above all you want freedom- freedom to follow your nose, sleep beneath the stars, wake with the larks and maybe even catch a mackerel for breakfast. Matt Morrison, pictured left, of Western Isles Campers understands all that. That’s why he has two VW T5 vans available to hire once you get here. The vans are completely kitted out with everything you need, so you can leave your car at Uig or Oban, board the ferry as foot passengers and pick up your new home at Lochmaddy or Lochboisdale. Matt says the T5s are the perfect vans for freedom and comfort, and Pat Morrissey

(pictured) from Stirling agrees with him. “Your holiday starts immediately you get off the boat or plane,” he says. He left his car at Uig, picked up his van at Lochmaddy and spent five days exploring the islands at leisure. He says: “It’s very economical in comparison to hiring a van on the mainland and bringing it over. I wanted the flexibility and freedom to visit as many accessible and inaccessible places as possible, without being constricted by a timetable. Uist has so many places to get off the road, it’s marvellous. “I think it’s a great idea and I’m planning to do it again in the autumn.” Rob and Krista Allardyce from Bournemouth decided to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary in the islands. They have relatives in Lewis, and spent some time there before

travelling via Berneray to Lochmaddy to pick up one of Matt’s vans. Rob said: “It’s a really convenient way to enjoy the beauty of the islands. It’s so comfortable, we could have stayed a fortnight with this scenery and weather.” Western Isles Campers owner Matt said: “I’m really pleased to see people coming to the islands and enjoying the convenience and comfort of the vans in their own unique ways.” Next year is looking busy, so Matt advises booking well ahead. He added: “The vans are available all year round, so why not come up in winter and watch the storms go by tucked up in a cosy van?” The vans cost £600 per week in peak season. You can book online with a 25% advance payment and a refundable £500 deposit.

Go wildlife spotting

JULY EVENTS

HARRIS

EAGLE WALK EVERY WEDNESDAY (TO SEPTEMBER 17) 10.00am - 1.30pm

North Harris Trust & RSPB Scotland

NORTH HARRIS TRUST GUIDED WALKS THURSDAY JULY 24 1.00pm - 4.30pm

EVERY TUESDAY MORNING (JULY 8, 15, 22 AND 29) 10.00am - 12.00pm

Isle of Scalpay - Eilean Glas Lighthouse & Beinn Sgorabhaig

Eagle Watch at the North Harris Eagle Observatory A guided walk in search of Golden Eagles and Sea Eagles in the North Harris Hills. RSPB Scotland and the North Harris Trust are working in partnership to provide an Eagle Walk every Wednesday from 2nd April right through to 17th September. In 2012 & 2013 we had a 95% success rate of seeing eagles on these walks. The walks will be lead alternately by the North Harris Ranger Service and RSPB Scotland. Meet: Bogha Glas car park (NB 186 115) Distance: 4.5 miles.

The North Harris Ranger will be at the Eagle Observatory every Tuesday morning between 10am and 12pm through July and August (starting 8th 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. Meet: Glen Miavaig Car Park (NB 101 063). Tickets: All walks below free of charge.

Tickets: RSPB members , ‘Friends’ & members of NHT and children - Free

Views from Hushinish are spectacular and there will be an opportunity to hear about the history of the adjacent island of Scarp. Meet: Hushinish car park (NA 992 120). Distance: 1.5 miles.

THURSDAY JUNE 10 10.00am - 3.00pm

Molinginish

Distance: 6 miles

EVERY TUESDAY AFTERNOON (JULY 8, 15, 22 AND 29) 1.00pm - 4.00pm

SKYE

BROADFORD TUESDAY JULY 22 10.00am - 1.00pm

Fantastic Fossil Foray

Meet: Outend Turning Circle, Scalpay (NG 232 948). Distance: 3 miles

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: Urgha, 2 miles East of Tarbert, start of path (NB 184 004).

Non-members - £5

A circular walk around the South-Eastern corner of Scalpay, out to the lighthouse. Great views, and good for wildlife including seals, otters and seabirds. Some of the route is across rough boggy ground so bring sturdy footwear.

THURSDAY JULY 31 11.00am - 4.00pm

Bag a Beinn - Giolabhal Glas An ascent of Giolabhal Glas (475m), one of the larger hills to the north of Tarbert, for views across east and west Loch Tarbert. Bring lunch.

Hushinish Machair Flowers An easy walk across the Hushinish machair to investigate its unique flora and learn some of the traditional uses for its plants.

Meet: Tarbert Tourist Information Centre. Distance: 6 Miles

The sandstones and mudstones at Ardnish dates from the early Jurassic period when dinosaurs roamed the land and the first birds took to the air. Fossils of the sea-life of the time are abundant here including the imprints of giant ammonites. Tickets: Booking essential. Grade B. Adults £3.00, conc. £2.00, family £8.00.

Meet: Broadford main car park. Grid ref: NG 643235. Contact: John Phillips on 01471 820526 or email john.phillips@highland.gov.uk. For book sales, eevents vents an andd membe membership ership info’ inffo’ o visit

HARLOSH

Lochboisdale Cafe

Open all year

SIX DAYS A WEEK G Barista coffee

Tel: 01878 700313

Gift shop

www.theislandsbooktrust.com landsbooktrust.com

THURSDAY JULY 24 10.00am - 12.30pm

Skye and Lochalsh in print (4): Skye: The Island and its Legends, Otta Swire, 1949 Explore Harlosh, an area well known to Otta Swire whose grandparents lived just across the water at Orbost. She was careful to separate fact from fiction and her timely setting down of these tales undoubtedly saved many of them from obscurity.

Meet: Meet at the slipway at Camas Ban, Harlosh. Grid ref: NG 285413.

Tickets: Grade C. Adults £3.00, conc. £2.00, family £8.00.

Contact: John Phillips on 01471 820526 or email john.phillips@highland.gov.uk.

Island News & Advertiser Holiday Guide July 2014

Call Nick on: 01870 602 403

uistboattrips.com ningledew@aol.com

Games, Song, Dance

JULY EVENTS HIGHLAND GAMES DIARY WEDNESDAY JULY 23

SATURDAY JULY 19

South Uist Highland Gathering

Inverness Highland Games

NORTHERN MEETING PARK ARENA

ASKERNISH FRIDAY JULY 25

FEISEAN Popular Gaelic medium summer schools for primary children, offering music, drama, dancing, shinty, art.

North Uist Highland Gathering

THURSDAY JULY 24

BALELONE

ERRAY PARK

Mull Highland Games

the Marquee, Malaclate, Sollas July 5, 6-11pm. Buffet followed by a ceilidh to celebrate 25 Years of Fèis Tir an Eorna. Former pupils, committee members, tutors and helpers are invited to attend.

MONDAY JUNE 30 - FRIDAY JULY 4

school, Tarbert

Special 25th Anniversary event in

SKYE

MONDAY JULY 14 - FRI JULY 18

Fèis Bharraigh (Barra Fèis)

Fèis Tir a’ Mhurain (South Uist Fèis)

Castlebay Community School, Barra

More information from feisnahearadh @yahoo.co.uk

Island News & Adve rtiser NOW AVAILABL E AT THE Aros Centre

Aros Centre, Portree FRIDAY JULY 4 7.30pm

North Sea Gas Going on over thirty years and stronger than ever! This is one of Scotland’s most popular bands, with guitars, mandolin, fiddle, bouzouki, bodhrans, whistles, banjo, great vocals with tremendous three part harmonies. £12, £10, £6

More information from peigi@ancomunn.co.uk / 01851 703 487

Iochdar School, South Uist

MONDAY JULY 28

Starts with Fun Run Stoneybridge Hall, Sunday July 13 3-6pm ceol-uibhist.co.uk

Sgoil an Rubha

Tiree Hall

MONDAY JULY 21 - FRI JULY 25

More information from Shari MacKinnon 07810 364597/ feisthiriodh @live.com

Fèis Eilean an Fhraoich (Lewis Fèis)

More information from feisanrubha@feisean.org / 01851 870452

More information from feisbarraigh@gmail.com/ 01871 810040

Please get in touch via Facebook.

Fèis Eilean na Hearadh MONDAY JUNE 30 - FRIDAY JULY 4 (Harris Fèis) Fèis Tir an Eorna Sir E Scott (North Uist Fèis)

Paible School

MONDAY JULY 7 - FRIDAY JULY 11

MONDAY JULY 7 - SAT JULY 12

Fèis Thiriodh (Tiree Fèis)

WEDNESDAY JULY 16 7.30pm

Inner Sound presents ‘The Mikado’ A group of enthusiastic and energetic folk from Skye and Lochalsh have got together to present Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic opera ‘The Mikado’. Starring Lorayne MacLucas as Yum Yum, Morag Miller and Tom Cowell. £12, £6

Fèis an Rubha (Point Fèis, Isle of Lewis) A teen Fèis was successfully introduced last year and it’s hoped more teens will come along this year.

Stornoway Primary School, Isle of Lewis mixture of traditional ballads and fiery instrumentals. Their music embraces both the mystical Highland style and the rollicking qualities of Lowlander’s tunes, moving from rock and roll intensity to haunting introspection. £12, £10, £6

SATURDAY JULY 26 4.00pm

Reading the Gaelic Landscape THURSDAY JULY 24, 31 7.30pm

Skye: The Island

John Stuart-Murray gives an illustrated talk about his fascinating novel which draws out the hidden meanings and stories behind the names of Highland places.

TUESDAY JULY 29 7.30pm

Caravan & Campsite in the heart of the Balranald Nature Reserve ● ●

Pitches -10 Caravan/Motorhomes & 10 Tents ● Electric Hook-ups Modern toilet and shower block ● Dish washing facilities ● CDP

Tel: 01876 510304 Hougharry, North Uist, HS6 5DL Mob: 07748 267996 www.balranaldhebrideanholidays.com email: info@balranaldhebrideanholidays.com

A live performance featuring stunning images of Skye by Cailean Maclean, Gaelic songs from Arthur Cormack, one of the leading Gaelic singers from his generation, and music by award-winning composer, Blair Douglas. £10, £8, £6

FRIDAY JULY 25 7.30pm

Tannahill Weavers The Tannahill Weavers’ are a dynamic Scottish trad quartet playing a potent

Soilleireachadh na hAlba and New World Drovers A free Scottish traditional music concert brought to you by the Touring Network. Luke Daniels (pictured above), Lauren MacColl and Ewan MacPherson play songs and traditional music inspired by the Scottish Enlightenment and the extent that Gaelic culture and language influenced leading thinkers of the time. FREE EVENT

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

Island News & Advertiser Holiday Guide July 2014

III

Music on Coll and Islay HEBRIDEAN SHEEPDOG TRIALS

JULY EVENTS BERNERAY WEEK FRIDAY JULY 11

Opening Ceilidh with Eriskay Lilt SATURDAY JULY 12 from 12.30pm

Berneray 10k and Cross-Country Race Village Hall MONDAY JULY 14

Sheepdog Trials. Ceilidh Dance with Martainn Kene Ceilidh Band TUESDAY JULY 15

Sports Day on the Machair

2.00pm

Craft sale and teas in the hall Quiz Night

SATURDAY JULY 12 Waternish, Skye

THURSDAY JULY 17 Lochs, Lewis

MONDAY JULY 14 Berneray, North Uist

FRIDAY JULY 18 Staffin, Skye

FRIDAY JULY 18

8.00pm

It’s a Knockout, Berneray machair

WEDNESDAY JULY 16

2.00pm

Sand castle competition and kite flying 1.30pm

Ceilidh

Beach BBQ and music

SATURDAY JULY 19

8.00pm

RNLI and Coastguard Open Day at the harbour 12 noon

THURSDAY JULY 17

TUESDAY JULY 15 Scarista, Harris

SATURDAY JULY 19 Dunvegan, Skye

WEDNESDAY JULY 16 Shawbost, Lewis

Treasure Hunt, meet at the hall 1.00pm

Gaelic song class, Hall

7.30 - 9.00pm

BENBECULA

Traditional concert with Judith Cummings and local musicians 7.45pm

ISLAY

HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS YOUNG PIPER OF THE YEAR 2014 THURSDAY JULY 24

Sgoil Lionacleit, Benbecula

9.00pm

All day

SUNDAY JULY 6 - FRIDAY JULY 11

Islay Cantilena Festival 2014 All concerts start at 8.00pm Classical music in various venues on the island.

COLL

FRIDAY JULY 4 - SUNDAY JULY 6

Music Coll Chamber music weekend, a series of concerts, master classes and dinners with some outstanding young musicians. This year’s line up includes Atea Wind Quintet, Maxwell String Quartet, Trio Mise-en-Scene (piano trio) and Zeitgeist Ensemble (viola, clarinet and piano trio) Concerts on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. More info at tunnelltrust.org.uk/ musiccoll2014.

Island News & Advertiser Holiday Guide July 2014

The

Blacksmith’s Cushion New outlet for bespoke ironwork and Harris Tweed products Gates, railings, handles, candlesticks etc by the only artisan blacksmith on the islands. All types of work undertaken G Harris Tweed cushions G Cards G Keyrings Parking at Culla Culla Croft, Aird, Benbecula Bay

Contact 01870 603816 for opening hours

The unmissable Ceolas

JULY EVENTS

APPY DAYS - DOWNLOAD THE ULTIMATE OUTER HEBRIDES GUIDE ONTO YOUR PHONE A must-have app for visitors to the Outer Hebrides is now available from the visitouterhebrides.co.uk website (click on Visitor Information). Called the Ultimate Outer Hebrides stay, where to shop, what’s on and Guide, the free app tells you the where to find activities. best places to spot wildlife, the best The listings have images, descriptions, contact beaches, where to eat, where to details and locations. Once you have FINE FOODS

LIGHT LUNCHES

downloaded the app, you need no internet connection to retrieve the information.

TAKE-AWAY

The project comes from Outer Hebrides Tourism Industry Association (OHTIA), an Outer Hebrides wide organisation set up to represent the wider tourism interests of the islands. OHTIA was granted funds two years ago to develop nature based tourism in the islands, resulting in the popular www.visitouterhebrides.co.uk.

OPEN Mon³Sat 10am³5pm DUNGANACHY, ISLE OF BENBECULA

TEL:01870 602 796

The organisation’s collaborators range from Visit Scotland to Calmac, Loganair, RSPB and SNH in an ‘ever expanding list,’ says chairman Ian Fordham. “We are planning an exciting initiative featuring performance, arts and crafts and Gaelic arts for visitors, coming in September,” he added.

Since beginning their work to raise the profile of tourism on the islands OHTIA says their membership has grown to 300 isles tourism providers from 84 in 2010. This initiative to bring visitor information into a downloadable app is

info@islanddeli.co.uk

another tool we have developed that ensures visitors have the best information possible, and is an easy to use addition to our website.

Nature-based tourism has also been at the forefront of OHTIA’s work, as part of a transnational LEADER project, with partners in Yorkshire, Wales, France, Hungary, Finland, Portugal and Cape Verde. From that work, OHTIA won an international

Summer School 6 - 11th July

Latha air an t-Searr Symposium 26 - 29th July

Laura’s Summer Dance Classes for children!!

Daliburgh, South Uist

Iochdar South Uist

Balivanich 4th & 5th August

DATE

EVENT

DATE

EVENT

DATE

6th July

Welcome Ceilidh

26th July

Exhibition in Gerinish 5.00pm

4th August 9.30 - 12.30 (5 - 8) Monday

Workshop and Air Cheilidh

Eriskay 5th & 6th August

7th July

Piping Ceilidh

8th July

Walk in Frobost

9 July

27th July

Singers Concert th

28 July 9th July th

Dance in Eriskay

10 July

Walk/Square Dance

11th July

Ceilidh Mòr

29th July

Seminar/Walk/Piping Recital Seminar/Walk/CD Launch/Ceilidh

TIME

5th August 9.30 - 12.30 (8 - 14) Tuesday

5th August 2.30 - 5.30 (5 - 8) Tuesday 6th August 9.30 -12.30 (8 - 14) Wednesday

Barra 8th August 8th August 10.00 -12.00noon (5 - 8) Friday

LEADER award last year for best tourism project with a partner in the Nordic or Baltic region. The website goes from strength to strength, Mr Fordham said. He said: “It’s always a challenge to develop traffic quickly to a brand new web site with a new domain name, but we’ve been really pleased with the growth in usage. “This May we had 20,000 unique users, more than double the same period last year. “This offers excellent exposure for the businesses that support the site with paid listings, and also for the thousands of events and attractions that we list to help visitors make the most of their stay.”

Commonwealth Games 24th July on Glasgow Green

Marquee Ceilidh with Ceolas Uibhist.

8th August 1.00 - 4.00pm (8 -14) Friday

Island News & Advertiser Holiday Guide July 2014

island news & ADVERTISER - July 2014 Issue 27

Upsurge of national interest in learning about Gaelic

“

although all students may have different starting points they will all have the opportunity to develop their language skills throughout the course

The BA [Hons] Gaelic Scotland degree was launched at Lews Castle College UHI in June. The degree is taught through the medium of English, and is unique in that it offers three language-learning pathways,

with separate strands for beginners, intermediate level and advanced learners/ ﬂuent speakers. This means that although all students may have different starting points they will all have the opportunity to develop their

”

language skills throughout the course. They will also learn about Highland history, heritage and literature, as well as studying community and language development issues. This degree will add to the range of courses

NEW FOR 2014!

BA Gaelic Scotland This new degree explores historical and contemporary Gaelic Scotland through the medium of English, while offering students the opportunity to acquire or improve their Gaelic skills

relating to Gaelic language and culture available through Lews Castle College UHI and the University of the Highlands and Islands. “This BA Honours Gaelic Scotland is a welcome addition to the portfolio of degree courses available to students in Scotland, and beyond. Lews Castle College and partners in the UHI network are to be congratulated on the innovative approach they have taken to give students access to Gaelic language learning as well as to the Gaelic world”, said the keynote speaker at the launch of the new degree - Bòrd na Gàidhlig Chief Executive, John Angus Mackay.

Bòrd na Gàidhlig Chief Executive, John Angus Mackay The BA Honours course is available to students through a range of study routes including a blend of online and videoconference delivery – with the ﬁrst group of students enrolling in September. Also speaking at the degree launch Alasdair Allan, Minister for Learning, Science and Scotland’s Languages, said : “The launch of a new degree in Gaelic is, of itself, cause for celebration but I think it is also important to recognise how Lews Castle College has developed this course to give many more people the opportunity to share its expertise. The course will take beginners, intermediate and advanced

speakers and will allow students to access classes through a combination of online, videoconference and telephone tutorials. It is exciting to see UHI’s work with other partners – such as Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, Glasgow Kelvin and West colleges – to give people across Scotland and beyond the chance to learn more about the Gaelic language, culture and heritage.” For further information on the wide range of Gaelic and other learning opportunities available through Lews Castle College UHI please visit www.lews.uhi.ac.uk and/or contact Catherine Donald on 01851-770202 or email catherine.donald@uhi. ac.uk

ic in n to play mus in us and lear Come and jo Uist - home eartlands of the Gaelic H lture. itions and cu of Celtic trad ntinues.... The journey co

Music and Gaelic courses at Lews Castle College UHI on the island of Benbecula in the Uists c people play beautiful musi ical place, where talented ...a great college in a mag Marcel van Limbeek, recording engineer (Tori Amos and Seth Lakeman)

Course information

For information on any of these courses, please contact Catherine Donald on

01851 770202 or catherine.donald@uhi.ac.uk

www.lews.uhi.ac.uk

· HNC Music · BA (Hons) Applied Music · MA Music and the Environment

· Gaelic Activity and Conversation classes · Ulpan

New residential and teaching accommodation at the Benbecula Music Hub: Isle of Benbecula Hotel, Creagorry

www.lews.uhi.ac.uk/music

July 2014 Issue 27 - island news & ADVERTISER

“Great courses, excellent tutors, wonderful facilities and an inspiring location” “Great courses, excellent tutors, wonderful facilities and an inspiring location”…. these are just some of the comments made by people visiting the Lews Castle College UHI Students End of Year Open Studio exhibition which ran between May23rd and June 21st at Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum and Arts Centre. • The exhibition showcased the depth and variety of work of the Lews Castle College UHI students over the last academic year. The exhibition also included work from alumni students who had previously studied art through Lews Castle College UHI at Taigh Chearsabhagh. • The community demonstrated huge support for the students on the opening night and the exhibition had many visitors in June. • Amongst the reactions left in the exhibition visitor’s book were comments such as -“Completely unexpected, fulﬁlling exhibition!”, “So glad Art reigns supreme in the Outer Hebrides – North Uist” and “Some beautiful work capturing the essence of the islands”. Amongst the main features which make theLews Castle College UHI Art courses unique are it’s location at Taigh Chearsabhagh Arts Centre in North Uist and the the course ﬁeld trips. The Uists are regarded as providing a rich and stimulating environment for artists. The natural heritage is striking,

the cultural heritage unique, the arts and Gaelic language thriving; making the islands an inspiring location to pursue a course of study in the visual arts. Taigh Chearsabhagh is itself a hub of artistic and cultural activity. The centre has a programme of exhibitions by national and international artists. This summer the drawings and prints of internationally renowned artist Vija Celmins were exhibited. Artist’s talks, educational activities, ﬁlm screenings and music events also take place throughout the year. Artists and students also have access to excellent facilities such as a darkroom and print workshop On ﬁeld trips, students go to

diverse locations throughout the island have provided a stimulating starting point for many projects. This close relationship with the environment is a key stimulus and motivation behind much of the work produced by students. • The main courses offered by Lews Castle UHI at Taigh Chearsabhagh are the NC Art and Design and the BA Fine Art degree course. The NC Art and Design course aims to offer a wide ranging programme of opportunities in visual art. The course comprises of both ﬁne art and design - based subject areas including painting, photography, sculpture and textiles, giving students an

B.A. Fine Art Consideration of and response to ‘place’ underpins this unique and challenging course. Students are encouraged to engage widely with the island environment to explore and develope their individual creative identity.

N.C. Art & Design A one year open-access course with attracts both school leavers and adults returning to education. Portfolio preparation is embedded into the course. Painting, sculpture, photography and textiles are just some of the units delivered.

excellent opportunity to gain a broad range of skills and to compile a strong portfolio of art work for application to higher education art courses. With the Fine Art degree, the ﬁrst 2 years of the degree are delivered at Taigh Chearsabhagh with various progression routes

available from there. For students on the course the primary resource is the island environment. Students are encouraged to engage, interpret and explore this notion in a wide variety of ways, fostering an openness to the creative stimuli available on the island and beyond,

whilst developing their own visual language. Lews Castle College UHI aims to build on the success of it’s Art Courses in recent years by aiming to develop the Fine Art degree course and offering a full time four year Honours Degree in Uist in the near future..

Want to go to College? • Develop your skills? • Explore career/course options? • Open the door to a brighter future?

Short Courses A programe of short courses designed to introduce, engage or extend creative approaches to the visual arts will run throughout the year. Full and part-time places are still available for session 2014-15

For further details and applications please contact: e: archina.maclellan@uhi.ac.uk t: +44 (0)1851 770500

www.lews.uhi.ac.uk/about-us/find-us/north-uist-campus www.facebook.com/FineArtOuterHebrides Lews Castle College, Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum & Art Centre, Lochmaddy, North Uist HS6 5EU

We’ve got the course for you If you would like to speak to someone about courses at your college visit website and/or

Catherine Donald, Admissions. Tel: 01851 770 000 catherine.donald@uhi.ac.uk

island news & ADVERTISER - July 2014 Issue 27

North Uist cattle show exhibition gets first prize from the public

Reminiscing over photos at the exhibition.

An exhibition of photographs, cups and memorabilia from North Uist cattle shows past and present attracted throngs of residents to reminisce together in Hosta Hall. The photos were sourced from the public, and from local press coverage down the decades. Alastair â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ahmorâ&#x20AC;? MacDonald provided show brochures from the 1960s to the present day, and two past show queens provided their sashes. The exhibition was organised by North Uist Agricultural Society, led by Joan Ferguson and Anne MacLellan, with the intention of gathering together as much memorabilia as possible and displaying the impressive collection of trophies awarded each year.

Joan said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We realised we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have many photographs from shows in the past, and we thought it would be a good idea to source as many as possible so that the people in them can still be identified. We also wanted to find out more about the trophies and the stories behind those who awarded them.â&#x20AC;? Magnifiers were thoughtfully provided to enable the viewers to inspect faces on the photographs close up and identify them on forms. Memorabilia included minutes of a meeting in 1890 in which â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;it was agreed to form a Society to be called The North Uist Agricultural Society.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; The president was

Alex Macdonald, Balranald. It was also proposed â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;to hold a Cattle Show and Horse Races on Wednesday 11th December and the show would be held at Hougharry.â&#x20AC;? The best cow was to be awarded 15 shillings. Thus the society and the first show came into existence. The exhibition, originally planned for two days at the end of June, was so well received by the public that the organisers have decided to open it again on Saturday July 5, 12 - 4pm.

This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cattle show is on Thursday July 31.

Sell-out student celebration at the Hub

ÂŠ Yahn Jeannot

The current cohort of Benbecula HNC music students joined by Uist-based BA Applied Music students gave a sell out musical celebration concert in Creagorry Music Hub last month. The diverse programme illustrated the high standards achieved again this year. Highlights included a repeat performance by students of the

Look out for our

Neighbours

Canna Special next month

Puffin Island All photos by Sophie Isaacson

Mary Scanlon MSP CONSTITUENT SURGERIES

Uist and Benbecula Tuesday 22nd July 2014 LOCHMADDY Lochmaddy Hotel 09.00 - 09.45 BENBECULA Dark Island Hotel 10.30 - 11.15 LOCHBOISDALE Lochboisdale Hotel 13.00 - 13.45 No appointment necessary

For more information please contact Mary on 01463 241004

or e-mail mary.scanlon.msp@scottish.parliament.uk www.maryscanlonmsp.com

As we gently glided between the Treshnish Isles over the glassy water towards Lunga I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe we were still in Scotland. The sun shone relentlessly all day andÂ the only reminder of where we were was the cool wind catching the back of our necks. The skipper guided us onto the island of Lunga where the black, volcanic rock cliffs rise from their bright green grass base. We clambered across slippery boulders and up the steep path to the puffin haven on top. Our climb was rewarded instantly; within metres of arriving on the top of the cliff we were greeted by the friendly and comical sounds of the puffins. Marching around like tiny black and white soldiers, the puffins carried out their daily

music featured by Channel 4â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restoration Man along with traditional Gaelic material interspersed with studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; own compositions.

Tiree resident Sophie Isaacson discovers the joys of one of Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s less well known islands.

routines and didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem to be even mildly phased by our shrieks of excitement at meeting them. They busied themselves scurrying in and out of their holes, watching us curiously and occasionally flying down to the silky blue waters below to catch their lunch. Climbing onwards we discovered the ruins of an ancient village from Viking times when the island was inhabited. The little stone walls of the houses stand like brave historical reminders of the people who once lived on this harsh and remote volcanic, rocky environment. Along the coast a little further Harp Rock spikes out of the cliffs, a sharp and jaggy home to thousands of different sea birds which nest there. The rawness and extremeness of this environment is striking and although beautiful in the summer months I would love to visit during a cruel and stormy winterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day to see the island battling with

the Atlantic Ocean. On our departure we sailed past the other Treshnish Isles each with their individual cliffs and skylines they sit like undisturbed

treasure troves of adventure, inhabited only by a variety of wildlife who watched us suspiciously as we sailed by. Sophie sailed with Staffa Tours.

!! " ! ! # "

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

July 2014 Issue 27 - island news & ADVERTISER Life

Most Cherished

Life

With four Regimental Sergeant Majors and 33 military medals among them, the Feltons of Iochdar, South Uist can rightly be called a family full of heroes. For Billy, 74, and Marion, 68, their most cherished possessions are the photos which recall the distinguished army careers of Billy and their sons Danny, Gavin and Fraser.

Billy is from London’s East End. He joined the Royal Artillery aged 21 and came to Hebrides Billy on duty in Northern Ireland. Range as warrant officer in 1981, retiring in 1995. A formidable feather/welterweight boxer, he was English army cadet champion and went on to represent the army numerous times, becoming army champion in Berlin 1965-66.

Gavin with his mum in Brunei.

Gavin, 45, joined the Royal Ordnance Corps and went on to become RSM.

He has five military medals, including Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) in 1994 for service to the Hebrides Range.

He recently retired as Garrison Sergeant Major in Brunei, and is now running his own health and safety business in Barnsley. Gavin served in both Gulf Wars, and Rwanda. He has nine medals. Superfit, he won many army trophies and is veteran cross-country running champion with 42 marathons under his belt. In April he began a world record attempt to run from Lands End to John O Groats in ten days, running 102 miles on the first day. Gavin is a Para and Commando.

He was made Warrant Officer, little knowing that each of his three sons would follow suit. And even more unusually, his eldest son Danny was also recently awarded the MSM.

Eldest son Danny, 47. Joined the Royal Artillery “against my wishes,” says Billy. “I felt the Army had become limited, but he wanted to follow me, so he did.”

Fraser at his wedding.

Fraser, 42, became one of the youngest RSMs in the British army, aged 37. Three tours of Afghanistan, one as RSM Logistical Regiment. His last tour was as RSM in Kandahar. Eight medals. Fraser has been a Para and Commando and was attached to the SAS for two years. He went on to be promoted to Corps RSM. He has now resigned his commission to join the Compass Group as human resources project manager. Like his brothers, he is a fanatical sportsman. When he first joined the army he was combined services junior cross-country champion. Fraser was the only one of the three to go to school on the isles, Iochdar and Lionacleit, with his final year at the Nicolson.

Billy and Marion are preparing to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary next year with a holiday away with their sons, their partners and their five grandchildren, Connor, 13, Jasmin, 11, Claudia, 8, Harrison, 8 and Keira, 3.

Billy and Marion with Danny in 1967.

Billy said: “All the boys have worked in Uist, Danny in the NAAFI, Gavin on fish farms and Fraser did a YT scheme with the military and was attested in West Camp. They have lots of friends here still.” How did Billy and Marion inspire their sons to become such superfit supermen? Billy struggles to answer this one. Eventually he says: “They were brought up by example, with self-discipline in the family and

Billy and Marion at a Mess dinner.

self-discipline at boarding school. And we always told them that you only get out of life what you put in, and every day you’re writing your own report, with someone always watching you, for good or bad reasons.”

Commissioned Captain in Third Royal Horse Artillery, Germany. He has served in Bosnia, Kosovo and the second Gulf War. Eleven medals and a Danny on receiving his MSM commendation for at Cardiff Castle. bravery under fire rescuing colleagues in Iraq. Danny has spent seven winters in Norway as an arctic warfare instructor. He’s part of an elite helicopter and ski-borne regiment, Allied Command Europe Mobile Force. In last year’s Queen’s Birthday honours he was awarded the MSM. He is currently serving as Regimental Sergeant Major of the Welsh Gunners TA Regiment, and received the honour in Cardiff Castle. It was his last official duty as RSM before being commissioned Captain. Billy said: “His Commanding Officer mentioned at the presentation that it’s believed that we may be the only father and son both presented with the same medal, or if this has happened before we are the only father and son still alive to be presented with the MSM. Only fifty to eighty are awarded annually.”

island news & ADVERTISER Life - July 2014 Issue 27

Grow

Handy hints

from Bill Armour

Build Your Own Polytunnel Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no stopping our re-purposing guru Heather Wheeler of North Uist. This project makes even her amazing pallet creations featured in the past two editions of IN&A seem tame. Building your own polytunnel is a cheap and effective way of extending the growing season, Heather writes. It protects plants from the high winds and cold weather that we can experience locally. It is possible to use recycled materials for a large part of the construction â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the polythene covering being the only significant expense. The polytunnel that we built measures 11 x 15 foot.

This is how we did it:

Eight fence stobs were cemented in place, allowing a 4 to 5 foot gap between them along each side. Wooden planks were attached to the stobs to form the edge of the polytunnel. Two internal raised beds were built in the same way. NB Square stobs as pictured are not ideal as they require some reshaping. Circular stobs of 3 inches diameter would be preferable.

We used a high grade 720 gauge thermal anti-drip polythene. To secure the polythene, two methods can be used - trenching in (burying wraps of the polythene under large amounts of soil), or using batons wrapped in polythene and attached to the wooden base. We used both methods, one on either side, to take advantage of the strength and stability of the former and the adjustably of the later.

The polytunnel hoops were made using recycled black pipe from a local fish farm. (3 Â˝ inch diameter) Four identical lengths of pipe were cut and slid over the stobs to form the four hoops, these were then secured to them with nails. Three internal batons were fixed to the pipes to support the hoops.

As the polytunnel is in an exposed position we used a recycled freshwater net from a local fish farm on top of the polythene to provide more security against strong winds.

The site was levelled, turf and rocks removed.

The fishing net was attached to the ground using metal stakes. By stretching this out at the front, extra space was created for growing strawberries just outside the tunnel itself.

A wooden frame for a door and window were added to either end of the polytunnel and the raised beds filled with top soil.

The top section of the door and the window at the far end are covered in fishing net to allow the air to circulate within the polytunnel. The lower section of the door and the area under the window have net with a polythene section attached which can be removed to further increase ventilation in the summer months.

Two years on and we have enjoyed a harvest of tomatoes, courgettes, peppers, cucumber, peas, beans, salad, spinach, spring onions, garlic and strawberries!

How to minimise wind stress on your young brassicas Handy hints from Bill Armour of East Camp Horticultural Project, Balivanich, Benbecula For the past 20 years we have been growing Shrubs, Hedging, Perennials, Bedding, Trees and Roses here on Lewis. Our plants are hardened off to the Western Isles weather. In our shop we stock a wide range of furniture, pots, ornaments, chemicals and an increasing range of pet supplies. We have been coming to Uist for 20 years and will continue throughout the summer. We make regular trips down and gladly accept telephone enquiries for delivery when we are in Uist. If you are looking for advice or plants don't hesitate to ring.

14 North Street, Sandwick HS2 0AD

01851 705798 www.mayburygardens.co.uk

When planting brassicas (cabbage, cauliflower, sprouts, kale) you should prepare your bed as normal then walk up and down it to firm up the soil.

Plant your seedlings right up to the seed leaves (cotilydons) and push firmly into the soil. You can also plant in a trench leaving a ridge at either side to deflect the wind. A good tip which I heard from Duncan MacKinnon of Berneray is to cut a 2 litre milk bottle in half, cutting just below the handle cut round the top at the two litre mark, place over your seedlings and secure to the ground. For this I would use some stiff wire (eg a coathanger cut in three with the hook removed) bent like a staple and fed through the handle then pushed into the ground.

! ! " #$%& '( " #$%& '( ) *++,* &%-.., ) *++,* &%-.., / ) *%,.' -0,-&. / ) *%,.' -0,-&. 1 ) *%,.' -0++++ 1 ) *%,.' -0++++ 2" 3 2" 3

These measures will help minimise wind rock which stresses the plant causing various problems such as curds not forming on your caulis and sprouts being loose, not nice tight bulbs.

Call Bill on 07768 363690 for more information about the East Camp project including allotments to rent and plants for sale at the polytunnel.

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July 2014 Issue 27 - island news & ADVERTISER Life

Download of the Month

Flora Kennedy’s The Wild Folk

Read

Life

William Wallace The Man and the Myth by Chris Brown

Shetland author and historian Chris Brown has written what many deem the most authoritative biography of William Wallace. He first published it almost a decade ago, and has now revised it to make it shorter and more accessible. Here he shares with IN&A readers some of his thoughts on the ultimate Scottish hero. What we think of William Wallace is naturally enough – rooted in what we know, or more accurately ‘what we think we know’. For some Wallace is a man of the soil; a simple farm boy turned guerrilla leader and military genius who was catapulted into fame by the Anglo-Norman nobles of Scotland who deserted their country to preserve their rich lands in England. For others, Wallace was himself a product of the Anglo-Norman aristocracy who abandoned a career in the church to become a bandit. Neither of these interpretations bears any examination, but all of the factors listed above can be dragged out of the evidence if we choose to look at it with a particular agenda. It is certainly true for example that Wallace enjoyed very little hands-on support from the great nobles, but it is worth remembering that many of them were prisoners of war at the time. As for covert support, neither Wallace nor his less famous partner Andrew Murray would have been as successful in recruiting troops if they had not enjoyed the tacit support of the nobles and that although Robert

Bruce’s ‘Noble revolt’ against the English occupation in the summer of 1297 fizzled out, he had dragged out the negotiations for several weeks which allowed Wallace and Murray to bring their forces together at Stirling. What we really know of Wallace is that he was a junior member of the ‘parish gentry’ – the lowest rung of the aristocratic ladder. He was the second or third son of Sir Alan Wallace of Ayrshire. He had no prospects of acquiring a ‘heritage’ in the form of an estate that he could pass on to his son and it seems likely that he was training for the priesthood – not, probably, with a view to becoming a parish priest but in some sort of administrative career path. In 1297 he led a party of well-mounted, armoured men on raids against the occupation government. By the end of August he had recruited a considerable force which, when combined with another force raised by Andrew Murray, defeated an English army at Stirling Bridge on 11th September. Murray died within a few weeks and Wallace became sole Guardian – or Regent – of Scotland in the name of the deposed John Balliol. Less than year later Wallace was defeated at Falkirk and resigned the Guardianship, but

continued to be active in King John’s cause both on the battlefield and as an ambassador in France. He was excluded from pardon by Edward I under the armistice agreement of 1304, was captured, subjected to a mockery of a trial and executed with quite outlandish barbarity. If that is really the bare bones of what we can say about Wallace, why write a book? Chiefly because there is a good deal more that we can say about him than the ‘bare bones’ would suggest, but also because the information can be very misleading if we do not have a good grasp of the context in which Wallace lived. The social, political, economic and military settings are all crucial to understanding both the man and the events of his life.

moment in the whole film...the rain is tipping down and Wallace says ‘This is Scottish weather’. Fair enough.

So if there is to be a book, what sort of a book to write? There are any number of cheery volumes of romantic tales and of course the utterly execrable ‘Braveheart’. The latter is just fine apart from a few minor details such as all the costumes, all the armour, the battle scenes, the interiors, the exteriors, an invented war in the 1280s and the history generally. There is one sound historical

William Wallace The Man and The Myth

What I hope to have done with the book is provide the reader some insight into the Scotland in which Wallace lived; an appreciation of the social and political environment that brought Wallace to prominence, his brief career and his eventual demise.

by Chris Brown Pub. The History Press May 2014 RRP £9.99 ISBN: 978-0-7509-5387-0

Download of the Month Flora Kennedy’s The Wild Folk When Lorna discovers the body of her childhood friend, Lachie, tangled by the tide on a Hebrides beach long-submerged family secrets and murderous truths rise to the surface threatening to wash away everything she holds dear. Uist author Flora Kennedy’s The Wild Folk is set on the Isle of Coll where her grandfather, Duncan Kennedy was from and where she spent much of her childhood. Kennedy now lives in Benbecula. Her mother, Katie MacCorquodale was from Carinish, North Uist.

Her dark novel has been described as “Nature writing with juicy bits” by reviewer John Beswick and “vigorous and enchanting, earthy and surreal” by Owen Luckey. Kennedy is a published poet and her short story Tenderness was published in the Bloody Scotland International Crime Festival’s Worth The Wait ebook of short stories. She has written three novels while working as a journalist and advertising writer in Scotland, England, Australia and New Zealand. She is creative director of Inner Wild, wilderness wear for dearhearts, Bibliopet, Outlander Originals and Inner Wild Therapy.

Kindle edition $5.15 on Amazon

Tagsa Uibhist have secured funding from Shared Care Scotland and The Robertson Trust to provide respite at their Iochdar South Uist Respite Care Home.

This will be based on a priority of need for respite for carer and the person being cared for.

Accommodation fees will be £119 per week. Fees are paid in arrears once an invoice has been issued. For further details contact Kathryn Martin Telephone number 01870 602111

‘‘

island news & ADVERTISER - July 2014 Issue 27

Benbecula Race D ay First race win for S tornoway’s Jonny Pritchard

Sport Kerry inspires Uist pupils on Commonwealth Games sports day

Kerry chats to primary school children at Balivanich School.

Team Scotland mountain biker Kerry MacPhee of South Uist was the star attraction at the Commonwealth Games sports day celebrated at Balivanich and Lionacleit schools at the end of May. Kerry gave an address to pupils and chatted informally with them in groups. It was just days before she had final

confirmation that she would represent her country at the Games. She told the children of her grueling training schedule and the numerous accidents she has had on the dangerous mountain bike courses she has been competing on all over Europe. She urged them: “Take up cycling, it’s so good for your mental and physical

health. But always wear a helmet.” Children up to P3 from Benebecula and South Uist primary schools and nurseries enjoyed races and games in glorious weather at Balivanich school. P4 upwards joined pupils at Sgoil Lionacleit for track and field events and taster sessions of boxing, hockey and rugby.

Benbecula Race Day A time of 1.24 ensured first place for Stornoway Running & Athletic Club’s Jonny Pritchard in the Benbecula Half Marathon last month. It was the first time the 43 year old had ever won a race. He was closely followed by South Uist’s Nea MacInnes, and Scott Craighead of Carnethy Hill Racing Club, both coming in within 25 seconds of the winning time. Benbecula is the second of the HEB3 series of half marathons in the islands, where runners have to complete at least three of the five races. Under warmer conditions than usual, but still with a stiff breeze and deceptively undulating course, most runners posted slower times than usual. First female was local Sarah Jonny takes the lead in the Half Louise MacIsaac (running for © Calum Fraser

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

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NORTH UIST PRIMARY SCHOOL SPORTS 2014 (Carinish, Lochmaddy and Paible) They’re off. Benbecula Half Marathon.

Edinburgh’s HBT), in a good time of 1.31.29, second was Helen Falconer of Portobello Running Club, and third, local Shona Morrison. With four of the first seven runners from SRAC, they were easily winners of the male team trophy, with the local Uist ladies team winning the female trophy. All runners were treated to the usual excellent Uist hospitality buffet prior to the prizegiving. The race organisers wish to thank the main sponsors The Co-operative, and MacLeans Bakery. They also received support from Uist & Barra Sports Council, NHS Western Isles - Health Promotion Department, The Dark Island Hotel, Nunton House Hostel, and Caley Timber. The last race in the Heb3 series is on July 5 in Harris. Full results of the Benbecula half marathon are available on the race website www.runbenbecula.btik.com © Calum Fraser with photos by Peter Keiller Benbecula Fast Track 2014. on the race Facebook page.

Fun Run first three males and females

POSITION

NAME

P7 Girls

Champion

Trinity Johnson (Paible)

P7 Girls

Runner Up

Marion MacCorquodale (Paible)

P7 Boys Champion

Ben Shepherd (Paible)

P7 Boys Runner Up P6 Girls

Champion

P6 Girls

Joint Runner Up Kate Biddulph (Carinish) & Iona MacDonald (Paible)

P6 Boys Joint Champion Jared Murie (Carinish) & John Scanlon(Paible) P6 Boys Runner Up

Jack MacDonald (Carinish)

P5 Girls

Champion

Orin Shepherd (Paible)

P5 Girls

Runner Up

Iona MacLeod (Paible)

P5 Boys Champion

Alasdair Fraser (Paible)

P5 Boys Runner Up

Shaun Shepherd (Paible)

P4 Girls

Champion

Lauren Shepherd (Paible)

P4 Girls

Runner Up

Erin Straderick (Carinish)

P4 Boys Champion

Calum MacDonald (Lochmaddy)

P4 Boys Runner Up

Stephen MacIsaac (Paible)

Mairead MacIntyre 45.55

P3 Girls

Champion

Mairi MacDonald (Paible)

Benbecula Fast Track (sponsored by Island News & Advertiser)

P3 Girls

Joint Runner Up Anna MacDonald (Paible) & Zara Wilkie (Paible)

74 participants

First three boys 8 -11yrs

First three boys under 8 Alasdair MacPhee 18.24 Ryan McClounnan 20.14 Anthony MacInnes 20.49

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

●

FIREARMS - Cartridges, Bullets, Pellets.

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

First three girls 8 -11yrs

First three girls under 8

Amie Ringstead Emma Monk Elisa Morrison

Eilidh MacIver Rhys Linich Jodie Rafique

Oops!

18.50 19.40 24.40

24.47 25.35 25.52

Apologies to North Uist Junior Football Club coach Lachie MacIsaac to whom we gave the wrong name in the last edition. Sorry Lachie!

P7 THROWING CHAMPION

Marion MacCorquodal (Paible)

Joint Ben Shepherd (Paible) Jack MacIlwraith (Lochmaddy) Jack MacIlwraith (Lochmaddy) Jayde Brannigan (Paible)

Sarah Jane MacDonald 40.17 Lo MacKinnon 44.23

●

COMPETITIVE PRICES PLEASE CHECK WITH US BEFORE ORDERING ELSEWHERE

CLASS

Callum Craib 34.28 Craig McClounnan 36.16 Calum Morrison 37.14

Ailig MacDonald 14.53 Shaun MacDonald 16.05 James MacLennan 15.53

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

North Uist primary school sports

Kenny Campbell and Chrissie MacCuish who handed out trophies to Ben Shepherd, Jack MacIlwraith, Trinity Johnson, Marion MacCorquodale.

First race win for Stornoway’s Jonny Pritchard

Marathon.

‘‘

P3 Boys Champion

Kieran MacIsaac (Paible)

P3 Boys Runner Up

Scott Petrie (Lochmaddy)

P2 Girls

Champion

Katie MacCorquodale (Paible)

P2 Girls

Runner Up

Faye MacAskill (Lochmaddy)

P2 Boys Champion

Seumas MacIain (Paible)

P2 Boys Runner Up

Calum MacLeod (Lochmaddy)

P1 Girls

Joint Champion Ailsa MacKinnon (Carinish) & Emma Saxton (Lochmaddy)

P1 Girls

Runner Up

Freya Duffield (Carinish)

P1 Boys Champion

Kean Simpson (Paible)

P1 Boys Runner Up

Sean MacDonald (Paible)

July 2014 Issue 27 - island news & ADVERTISER

THE ADVERTISER YOUR DIRECTORY Have your business seen throughout the islands for as little as £66 PER YEAR. OF LOCAL SERVICES Flat rate £2 per line, minimum three lines, minimum eleven insertions. Call 01870 602151/ads@islandnewsandadvertiser.com to book your space. Accommodation

Cafe/Post Office/Gift Shop

Cycle Shop

Jewellers

MSP Western Isles

Pregnancy Crisis

Taxis

Uist Computer 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

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.hebridean jewellery.co.uk

Alasdair Allan MSP SNP 31 Bayhead, Stornoway, Lewis. E: alasdair.allan.msp @scottish.parliament.uk T: 01870 602287 (Uist & Barra) 01851 702272 (Lewis & Harris)

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

Prompt Reliable Service Sketch’s Taxis Tel: 01870 603427 Mob: 07909 637161

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

Accommodation 2-bed s/c cottage Laxdale area, on bus route Free wifi. Tel: 01851 705771

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

Building & Roofing Contractors New builds, Renovations, Roof specialists. Archie Beaton Tel: 01871 890 374 Mob: 07788 263 080

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

Western Isles Citizens Advice Service

Barra 01871 810608 Uist 01870 602421 Harris01859 502431 Lewis 01851 705727

Money Advice 01870 603807 and 01851 700088

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

The Western Isles Occupational Health, Safety and Business Support Consultancy. Sandwick Management Systems Call Donald on 07788 963497 Email: donald@sandwick systems.co.uk

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

All types of decoration undertaken. Ally MacKenzie Tel: 01870 602725 Mob: 07723013884

Grass cutting/small plant repairs David’s Garden Machinery Grass cutting, small plant repairs, hires tel: 01870 603833 mob: 07880 743437 bagleyr@supanet.com

Hairdresser Shear Design Unisex salon Bayhead, North Uist Call Joanne 07825 741436

Insurance Services Business Services

Painter and Decorator

Are you paying over the odds for your insurance? Let us offer you a great deal on your personal and business insurance. Call us now for a no obligation quotation Tel: 01870 60 22 22 email: info@ macleodinsurance .co.uk Macleod Insurance Services

Painter/Decorator Laundry Sandra’s Laundry Hours 1-5pm All Year Round Uist Bunkhouse Mobile: 07810 408493

Skinners Decor Painting & Decorating DIY Shop Howden’s Kitchens Tel: 01870 602423

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

Memorials Jon Hearach Memorials Memorials, renovations, added inscriptions Any cemetery, Home visits. Tel. for our helpful brochure. 01463 711287

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

Signage -Vehicle livery Labels Design Manufacture - Install Hebridean Graphics t: 01876 500469/ 07836 640524 www.hebridean graphics.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sign Makers

Taxis

Photographic Printing & Graphic Design

Taxis Quick Cab Taxis Country & Airport Runs Tel: 01851 701234 Harris Taxis Tel: 07500 450 387

TV, Satellite & Broadband Window cleaner

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

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

Uist Disability Access Panel

NEEDS YOU We try to help anyone with any access issues in the Uists If you are interested in joining us contact: UDAP c/o Tagsa ofﬁces orc/o 23 Winﬁeld Way, Balivanich Isle of Benbecula, HS7 5LH

Tel: 01870 603233

JULY REFUSE COLLECTION SCHEDULE FOR UIST

Chandlery

Fishing L Beta L Tohatsu

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

It’s tough out there,

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Peter Mac

CONSTRUCTION New Build Renovations and Extensions All Trades

This space only £20 per month Telephone: 01870 602151

Thursdays July 3, 17, 31 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.

Wednesday July 23 Paper/Card July 9 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.

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Thursdays July 10, 24 Residual Locheport, Berneray, ClachanSands, Vallique, Lochportain, Cheesebay, Blashaval, Minish, Lochmaddy Commercials, Bayhead, Paible, Claddach, Clachan, Carinish, Balivanich.

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Wednesday July 2, 30 Blue Bin July 16 Paper/Card Stoneybridge, Locheynort, Dalibrugh, Lochboisdale, Garryhellie, Askernish, Milton, Kildonan, Bornish, Howmore, Howbeg, Drimsdale, Stilligarry, Drimore, Gernish, Rangehead, Liniclate Commercials, Balivanich Commercials.

Tuesdays July 8, 22 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.

SO BE SEEN!

Tuesdays July 1, 15, 29 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.

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It’s tough out there,

Enterprises

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

Monday July 21 Paper/Card July 7 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.

H.M.I.W.

Monday July 28 Paper/Card July 14 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.

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