inside: YOUR8 PAGE to what’s on this month PULL-OUT GUIDE
island news Edition 05 July 2012
EE FR
& ADVERTISER
CROFTING COMMISSION CALLS TIME ON ABSENTEE CROFTERS Moves by the Crofting Commission against absentee crofters have received a qualified welcome in the southern isles.
HARRIS
reasonable proposals for the future of their croft. Mr Maclennan said: “If these are not acceptable, with a vague or long timescale, the proposal to terminate will proceed and could take up to a year. It’s not just a wake-up call, the crofter must take action.” After the termination order is issued the croft is declared vacant with no tenant, and the onus is on the landlord to submit a suitable tenant to the Commission for approval.
‘‘
We are keen that crofts are used and the community is active, so anything the Commission can do to encourage occupancy and use is to be supported.
Huw Francis, Stòras Uibhist
‘‘
The Commission agreed last month to terminate the tenancies of seven crofters, four of whom are in the Western Isles and to progress a further five long-standing cases involving absent tenants, four of which are in the Western Isles. The Commission says it is determined to see crofters and owneroccupiers comply with their legal duty to occupy and maintain their crofts. It has focused so far on cases where crofters have been absent from their crofts for more than 10 years. The number of crofts affected in the Western Isles is significant. The Commission currently has 57 cases listed for notices of proposal to terminate the tenancy, of which 31 are in the islands; and 252 cases listed for review in the future, 101 of which are in the islands. Isles Crofting Commission representative Murdo MacLennan said the terminations were a positive step for communities, freeing up crofts for active use. He said: “These tenants are not resident, and there are no indications that they will be resident so the Crofting Commission has no option.” Mr MacLennan said there is opportunity and time at every stage of the procedure for absentee tenants to regularise their position by writing to the Commission, asking for consent to be absent and offering the Commission
North Uist councillor Neil Beaton said he was in favour of the Commission terminating the tenancies of long-term absentee crofters, with the provision that the vacant crofts were given to young people with families. He said: “There must be a queue of
BERNERAY
Crofting Reform (Scotland) Act 2010: Ev
ery tenant or owne within a specified r-occupier must live on or dist distance agreed w ance of their croft: 32 km or ith Crofting Comm ission or have Commission cons ent to be absent. They must acti vely use their la nd.
young folk who would like a croft, and the Commission must do everything it can to smooth the way for them to come in.” Stòras Uibhist chief executive Huw Francis said: “We are keen that crofts are used and the community is active, so anything the Commission can do to encourage occupancy and use is to be supported. It’s a pity it has taken so long. Empty crofts make common and hill grazing harder to manage and have a negative impact on neighbouring crofts. “The last croft that came available here had 35 expressions of interest, so the demand is there.” But one Uist crofter who preferred not to give his name said: “They can’t give security of tenure on one hand and take it away with the other. My brother left his croft years ago to seek employment and now I work it. People that have to leave, have to leave for good reason. Nobody should have anything taken away from them against their will. If they left things alone they would find that people die and the crofts become available anyway.”
NORTH UIST
BENBECULA
SOUTH UIST
ERISKAY
2
island news & ADVERTISER - Issue 5
INBRIEF
on served to Queen South Uist Salm Duart’s Loch Marinated salmon from rter in a Jubilee sta Uist sites formed the n by the Livery lunch given to the Quee London at Companies of The City of Westminster Hall. lmon with ‘Marinated Uist Island Sa d a an rbs he Lyme Bay Crab, fresh ved ser s wa ’ lley Sancerre. Lemon Soy Dressing aul Picard, Bué Loire Va n-P Jea 11 20 a days for 700 ee accompanied by thr lets were marinated for ham Palace About 75kg of salmon fil ing ck Bu at a dinner in d use s wa r rte sta e sam guests. The dding. last year for the Royal We
WEAVER OF GRASS: NEW PLAY AT LIONACLEIT
Horse and Bamboo Theatre Company will perform a new play about Angus,Weaver of Gra ss at Lionacleit School theatre on July 14 at 3pm and 7pm.
The production, on tour throughout Sco tland, includes Gaelic and English, animation and puppetry, and music perf ormed by Mairi Morrison, South Uist. Suitable for older children and adu lts. Horse and Bamboo will be familiar to many from their visits to the islands in the 1980s.
NEW Beatrix translation
SOUTH UIST DIG BEGINS
An Tàillear À Gloucester (The Tailor of Gloucester) is the latest release by Grace Note Publications in their series of Beatrix Potter translations. The Perthshire based company has now translated no less than 11 of Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit series into Gaelic, presented pocket-sized hardcovers, complete with the original Potter illustrations. Priced £5.99, available online at www.gracenotepublicatons.co.uk
Archaeologists from the Universities of Liverpoo l and have started excavating a site at An Doirlinn, North Southampton Lochboisdale looking for evidence of the earliest settlers in the He brides. Volunteers from North Uis t’s Access Archaeology gro up are assisting. The team will be giving a public lecture on Wednesd ay July 4 at Museum Nan Eilean, Sgoil Lionacle it, 7.30pm and there will be a site open day on Saturday July 14 from 11 am to 4pm, to which all are welcome.The team are on site until Thursday July 19.
Lochmaddy Church is 100 Years Old RNLI LIFEBOAT’S FIRST VISIT TO NORTH UIST tenary from Lochmaddy church celebrates its cen ion meal brat cele a be August 15 to 19. There will on Day n Ope an 17, ust in the hall on Friday Aug cy rgen eme le, cast ncy bou , Saturday 18, with BBQ a on ed play CD a and s aph togr services, old pho Roddy loop in the church. That evening, Rev isters will take MacLeod will give a lecture. Past min on Sunday se various services including family prai Everyone ing. even morning and Communion in the . ions brat is welcome to join in the cele
JUMP ON THE
AN RADIO
band wagon
Broadcasters young and old are invited to take part in the first ever broadcast of Uist’s new An Radio during Benbecula’s Fun Day on July 7. The mock broadcast will take place from a 40ft trailer in the square.
Co-ordinator Neil Campbell said: “Anyone who wishes to have a slot on the Band Wagon should contact neil@sustainableuist.org or Catherine Eunson cateun@gmail.com. “We will also be using this day as an opportunity for everyone out there to
Grimsay boat photos and information sought
Rob honours his father As IN&A goes to print, North Uist’s Rob Quarm is about to embark on his first CELTMAN! Extreme Ironman triathlon to raise funds for MacMillan Cancer Support. Rob, 31, a fitness trainer at Stobo Castle is undertaking the challenge in memory of his father Bill, whom he lost to cancer in February. We wish Rob all the best as he swims 4km in a sea loch, cycles 200km and runs 40km off road over two Munros in Torridon. Rob wants to raise £5000 for his chosen charity. Donations can be made on Rob’s Just Giving site: www.justgiving/robquarm.
North Uist welcomed its ne RNLB Lifetime Care for the w lifeboat, first time. Members of the public tur ned out to greet the vessel at Lochmaddy pier, and have a look round it.The crew de monstrated their life-saving skills using a spe cial hoist to rescue a man overboard (pi ctured).
Grimsay Boatshed is looking for photos and updates on any Grimsay boats for the website it shares with Am Bàta, its partner in Plockton, as part of its Heritage Lottery Fund’s Skills for the Future training programme. In the Grimsay Boat Archive, photos and details on the Grimsay boats have been collected since 1999 by
young people and others, as well as background information on the Stewart boatbuilders. At present, details of 15 boats are displayed on the site, out of a total of 75 boats fully documented. The Boatshed is seeking additional funding to add to the archive, which can be seen at www.acrosstheminch.org.
island news Edition 01
March 2012
EE FR
& ADVERTISER
Design: Tim Mason Managing editor: Susy Macaulay Supplement research: Jenni Potter
Tel: 01876 510758/07500 041 671 editor@islandnewsandadvertiser.com
get involved with An Radio and would like to hear from anyone who is interested in any aspect of the project. Please come along and join us on the day and make sure that you make yourself known to one of the event coordinators.”
Issue 5 - island news & ADVERTISER
Bid for new school for North Uist A new primary school for North Uist is on the cards, if approved by the Scottish Government. Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar (CnES) will this month present a bid to the Scottish Government’s Schools for the Future programme for a new school to replace Carinish, Lochmaddy and Paible schools (current roll 73). The location for the proposed school has not yet been determined, but locally it is understood that Clachan is favoured as a central point for the population. A CnES spokesman said: “The Comhairle is at the stage of applying for funding for a new school just now; as a site hasn’t yet been chosen. The Comhairle would consult closely with communities before choosing a site. “In reaching their decision, the Comhairle would be supplied with all the relevant educational information by the Education and Children’s Service Department and an option appraisal paper would be prepared by technical services.”
Paible school buildings are rated category C, in poor condition.
Half the notional cost of the new school would come from the Scottish Government, based upon the Scottish Futures Trust’s assessment of the space required and their estimate of construction costs. The CnES spokesman said: “What proportion of the total cost this amounts to will depend on the size of school the Comhairle builds and the actual cost of construction. The new Daliburgh primary was funded on the same basis and the Scottish Government contribution was around a quarter of the total cost. Therefore if the Comhairle builds a similar school in North Uist the Scottish Government contribution to the overall cost is expected to be in the between 25% and 50% of the actual cost. The Comhairle would have to fund the balance of the project.” The proposal meets government criteria of tackling poor condition schools. Paible is rated C, almost the lowest category, and Lochmaddy and Carinish are B rated. However, Iochdar,
South Uist and Castlebay, Barra schools are also C rated. North Uist’s application must by submitted to the Scottish Government by July 21. The government says it is likely to reach a decision this September. Meanwhile, CnES councillors have voted for the closure of Shelibost school in Harris in 2013. However the closure remains the subject of a legal appeal by Education Secretary, Mike Russell. West Harris Trust chairman Neil Campbell said: “We are pleased that the Minister is appealing against the finds of Lord Brailsford and this will give the community some time to plan for the future. “In the past two years we have made good progress despite the economic downturn, a number of families have already moved in with additional families willing to re-locate over the next three years. We look forward to working with the Comhairle and other agencies to attract new families and provide economic opportunities to make life on the west side an affordable option.”
Sealladh na Beinne Mòire Directors Election Results In the 2012 election for two directors of Stòras Uibhist, the largest community landowner in Scotland, four candidates stood for election: Sarah MacEachean, Ronnie MacKinnon, Calum MacMillan and Mary Schmoller. A turnout of just over 68% of Members voted in the postal ballot organised by Electoral Reform Services, an increase of 10% on the previous year. Sarah MacEachean was re-elected with 291 votes and Mary Schmoller was elected to the Board for the first time, with 266 votes. Their term runs from June 28 at the close of the 2012 AGM until they will be required to stand down in 2015 as part of the rolling process which sees all the elected directors stand down over any three year period. The full results of the election were: Number of eligible voters: 817 Total number of votes cast: 559
MacEACHEN,Sarah Margaret Anne: 291 Elected
Turnout:
68.4%
Number of votes found to be invalid:
SCHMOLLER, Mary Theresa:
266 Elected
2
MacKINNON, Ronald J:
238
Total number of valid votes to be counted: 557
MacMILLAN,Calum: 236
3
4
island news & ADVERTISER - Issue 5
th HHP celebrates 250 tenant - but voices concerns over future house building on the islands
‘‘
Although the housing list is the lowest it has ever been at around 620, there has always been a lack of housing in the Hebrides. I am concerned that we are going backwards.
George Lonie, HHP chairman
‘‘
A young North Uist mum received an unexpected house-warming bouquet when she became Hebridean Housing Partnership’s (HHP) 250th tenant. Rhoda Cameron, 23, and her three year old son Sam recently moved into Slighe Ruairidh Alasdair, Westford. She was visited by HHP chief executive Angus Lamont, chairman George Lonie and area manager John A MacQuarrie who handed her flowers to mark the occasion. The six home development is the first social housing development in North Uist since 1987. Mr Lonie said: “HHP was set up in September 2006 hoping to build 275 homes within 10 years. We are already at 250 in five and a half years. It has gone much quicker than we hoped. “We proved that we could spend the
money well and as long was we get allocations from the Scottish Government we will continue to build.” Mr Lonie added that he was concerned about the small allocation of money given to Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar for housebuilding for the next two and a half years. He said: “It is now £1.44million, down
Rhoda Maclean with George Lonie, Angus Lamont and John A MacQuarrie of HHP.
from almost £7 million. Only four new houses have been built in this financial year. “I don’t know what the government’s thinking is behind the allocation but these figures will have a destructive effect on house building in the Western Isles, on the
construction industry and on keeping people here. “Although the housing list is the lowest it has ever been at around 620, there has always been a lack of housing in the Hebrides. I am concerned that we are going backwards.”
Survey turns up host of new archaeology An archaeological landscape survey of part of North Uist has turned up a swathe of known and new sites spanning around 5 millenia.
●
two weeks surveying, plotting and photographing a 40km square area of the west side of North Uist. The area extends from the coastal strip at Balranald, across Tigharry machair inland to Clettraval. RCAHMS team leader Dr Alex Hale said: “By looking at the RCAHMS database and the Western Isles Archaeology Service Sites and Monuments Record, we knew that there were around 160 sites in the chosen area, before this survey began. Based on the two weeks of fieldwork, which is a vital part of understanding Scotland’s historic landscape, this figure is likely now to have doubled at least. It is about looking at the landscape, at the surface remains such as ruined blackhouses, lazy beds, fanks, enclosures, the heart of the Community mills, lades, cairns and sheilings. By meticulously Wide selection ● Friendly service plotting groups of stones, Local meat, fish, eggs and seasonal veg we could begin to see the remains of more chambered ● Daily papers Fresh baking
●
Fuel
New discoveries include the remains of a number of chambered cairns in the area, including one previously unrecognised in Hougharry. Dr Alex Hale instructs Ian The survey was carried Bramwell on out by the Royal point taking. Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS), whose four strong team spent
At ● ●
cairns than were thought previously.” In Hougharry, two scatterings of stones on a mound at Cnoc –Tigh Raonaid turned out to show the classic signs of a chambered cairn. Although the main structure of cairn material has long since been removed and quarried to make dykes and perhaps road core, the team found stones which been split and carefully placed in the manner typical of Neolithic burial chambers, complete with passageway. The stones were chosen as they have seams of pink quartz, which appeared to have been used deliberately for effect, within the burial chamber. Dr Hale said that other mounds particularly around Clettraval indicated that perhaps more chambered cairns survived in the grazing ground. The team has now returned to Edinburgh to write up, edit and check their findings before entering them into the RCAHMS public database, known as Canmore (http://canmore.rcahms.gov.uk/). Dr Hale added that a vital part of the project is working with local people, given their knowledge of the landscape. The survey team undertook a walk with local
Ronnie MacKenzie learns how to use the alidade.
people to visit the chambered cairns on Clettraval and also to see the newly discovered cairn. Meanwhile two members of North Uist’s Access Archaeology group joined Dr Hale and RCAHMS surveyor Ian Parker to record the Hougharry cairn using the ‘plane tabling’ method. Ronnie MacKenzie and Ian Bramwell learned how to use an alidade to plot points and make with accuracy a scale drawing of the site. Dr Hale said: “This looks like a jumble of stones, but using a simple sighting device like an alidade forces you to see what is actually there.” Access Archaeology hopes to train more members in survey work to enable the group to carry out its own local surveys in future. Dr Hale said: “The Comission is keen to return to build on this project and help the local community to develop skills that will enhance all of our understanding of this rich historic environment.”
RARE BIRD SIGHTING IN BENBECULA Open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 6pm
Telephone: 01876 510257 Bayhead, North Uist The Greater Sand Plover spotted in Stinky Bay.
Uist naturalist Steve Duffield spotted a bird very rarely seen in western Europe let alone the UK last month. The Greater Sand Plover (pictured) was in a mixed flock of waders in Benbecula’s Stinky Bay. Mr Duffield said: “This is a very rare species in the UK with around 15 previous records in the whole
country since the first record in December 1978. This is the fifth record for Scotland. It breeds in the semideserts of Turkey and eastwards through Central Asia. It winters on sandy beaches in eastern Africa, south Asia and Australasia, and is a very rare vagrant to western Europe.”
Issue 5 - island news & ADVERTISER
Fond memories as Scalpay school closes “I have very personal memories of the school ...most of them good....some ...well, let’s just say it was all part of the learning experience ! “The teachers were, Miss Cunningham, Miss Mills, Morag MacDonald, Finella MacDonald and Mr Morrison, not forgetting the numerous visiting teachers ! “They were firm but fair, and we had a natural respect for them. “I wasn’t academically gifted but the teachers knew each pupil individually, so were able to encourage and motivate each one of us when necessary. “A big highlight were the school trips ...they ranged from jaunts over the moor to the
Linda Norgrove fundraising concert marks youth orchestra and schools collaboration A concert featuring Uist’s popular youth band Na h-Eileanaich and two members of the National Youth Orchestras of Scotland (NYOS) chamber orchestra Camerata packed out Lionacleit School theatre. The concert was arranged to raise funds for the Linda Norgrove Foundation by live music promoter Matt MacDonald as part of his Taigh Ciuil series. Linda Norgrove Foundation’s development officer Rachel Wade gave the audience an overview of the activities of the foundation, set up to further the work of the late humanitarian aid worker in Afghanistan. She explained that proceeds from the concert would go towards the Afghan National Institute of Music, formed to give musical skills to orphans and street children to help them go on to earn their living with dignity. The Institute is the subject of a movie, Dr Sarmast’s Music School, due shortly for release. The concert also marked the public start of a unique collaboration between Uist
Get Fresh with starting soon
Commercial and domestic carpet and upholstery cleaning service
Contact: Alasdair Tel: 01870 602320 Mobile: 07765 524753
Left to right Eve Harrison, NYOS; Rachel Wade, Linda Norgrove Foundation; Elanor Gunn, Camerata violinist; Julia Wagner, Camerata cellist; Matt MacDonald,Taigh Ciuil.
youth and NYOS to create a full orchestral piece to be performed in September. NYOS composer and outreach practitioner Eve Harrison told the audience that she has begun working with Lionacleit pupils, Na h-Eileanaich and members of Camerata to create a cross-genre orchestral composition to be performed with the full 20 piece NYOS orchestra at Lionacleit school on September 21. After this, a scholarship will be made available by NYOS to any student from the Uists who successfully auditions for any of the National Youth Orchestras’ Ensembles. This will cover all course fee and additional expenses involved in attending the projects during 2013. Ms Harrison said she was impressed by the mindset of the Uist youngsters, and their natural ease with music. During the concert Camerata cellist Julia Wagner and violinist Elanor Gunn played a set with Na h-Eileanaich, tackling Scottish contemporary music for the first time. Meanwhile, Na h-Eileanaich announced that they have been recording a CD which will soon be available for sale.
Donald John Morrison of Kyles Scalpay was head at the school for almost 26 years between 1970 and 1996. During his tenure the school was a junior secondary, with 84 pupils at one high point. Charting the falling numbers to nine pupils in 2012 gives a sobering picture of a population driven away in pursuit of work. Mr Morrison said: “Before the war there were more than130 pupils in the school, but afterwards, people had to move to the mainland to seek employment, and we saw a decline in numbers then. In the 60s and 70s, when the herring fishing was good some came back and bought boats, but now that has gone too.” The junior secondary part of the school closed in 1996, with only half a dozen pupils left. Mr Morrison said: “Despite our concerns at the time about the declining population, they were very happy years, with good camaraderie among the staff and a good relationship between teachers and pupils.”
SAFOR LE
One who couldn’t make it was Norman Macleod, known to all as TV anchor with STV News at Six. He attended the school between 1971 and 1980, and sent over a DVD to be played at the celebration, with this message:
lighthouse, field trips to Cul na h-Airde....to an expedition to Pabbay, which involved a very scary return boat trip after a gale blew up! Just as well we’re accustomed to boats. “I remember the excitement of the annual school sports in Seilebost and seeing the magical first glimpse of the Sands, as we descended the Uamh Aird. “There were two house teams, Scotasaidh and Hamarsaidh. I think I was a member of the Hamarsaidh team every year...where I developed a passion for sprinting which later led to sporting triumphs at secondary level. “I have to admit that I was naughty one day and received the belt ....for being “disobedient”. But I didn’t know what that word actually meant in Primary Three !! “It’s very sad that the school is closing but I can honestly say that my educational experience there prepared me for the outside world. “I think everyone associated with the school can be justly proud of the contribution it’s made through the years.”
Lee View
RE FOR NT
Some former pupils travelled distances to attend the event.
Harris School Board records for Scalpay school from the 1900s show tough times in years gone by, with prosecutions of parents who failed to send their children to school, complaints about excessive corporal punishment; measles and whooping cough epidemics, malnutrition, no clean water within a mile of the school during the summer; shortage of space and deteriorating school buildings. Finally, in 1972, the board notes “concern about the condition of the school buildings at Scalpay. Agreed to recommend that a new school be built at Scalpay and that in the meantime repairs be put in hand as quickly as possible.” And the rest, as they say, is history.
Geirrean Mill Cottage & Hatchery
SAFOR LE
Norman Macleod.
Many memories and reminiscences have been triggered by Scalpay’s recent ceilidh and exhibition to mark the closure of its school.
Carinish Church
Former Merchant’s House in Lochmaddy situated in desirable location beside sheltered anchorage and pier. Open to offers to encourage development of building.
Large 18.5m x 13.5m box profile shed and adjacent small cottage set in picturesque secluded location available together or separately for a 3 year period.
Historic building situated adjacent to main North Uist to Benbecula Road and close to Teampull na Trianaid. Lends itself to imaginative conversion to residential or business use.
North Uist Estate For further information contact George H MacDonald
Tel: 01876 500329 North Uist Estate, Estate Office, Lochmaddy, North Uist, HS6 5JB
5
6
island news & ADVERTISER - Issue 5
LOCHMADDY SWRI EXHIBITION The Lochmaddy Institute of the SWRI is holding an exhibition of crafts in Lochmaddy School from Tuesday July 10 to Saturday July 21 2012. Craft items and local produce, including home baking and preserves, will be on sale. There will be demonstrations of some of the craft techniques featured in the exhibition, details of these will be available at the school or by telephoning 01876 560 392. The exhibition will be open daily, except Sunday and Monday, from 11.00am to 4.00pm. All welcome. Admission free. A proportion of the revenue from sales will go to support North Uist Athletics Association.
Ruairidh’s Shear Enterprise Enterprising young crofter Ruairidh MacDonald of Glebe, Hougharry, North Uist will have sheared more than a thousand sheep by the end of this month.
UIST WOOL SEEKS WOOL Meanwhile, crofters looking for a use for their fleeces are invited to attend a woolgrading workshop run by Uist Wool in Grimsay on September 15.
The 16 year old first learned to clip as an eight year old under the tutelage of Donald John ‘Para’ MacDonald of Hosta. Such is the success of his enterprise that he invested in his own electric shears last year, powered from the 12v battery in an old family tractor. It’s thought Ruairidh is the only person shearing on North Uist this summer. He said: “I learned with tiny hand clippers, but I’m much faster with electric ones. This year they’re harder to shear with the weather being so cold.” He added: “If I wasn’t shearing I don’t know what I’d be doing with myself this summer. It’s so dry nothing is growing.” Ruairidh plans to save up some of his summer earnings - and splash some on a vintage tractor he is doing up. Uist Wool spokeswoman Dana MacPhee said: “By early 2013, we hope to begin processing local fleece in the new mill at Scotvein. “We are looking for a range of different types of fleece, up to one tonne in all, to be donated or purchased from Uist crofters and wool growers for the pilot/training runs at the mill.” In order to be suitable for Uist Wool’s lowvolume, high-quality spinning, the fleece must be largely free of paint and excess vegetation; with clagging and skirting removed; wellsheared, without second cuts which shorten the fibre; any breed but separated by breed and packed in large brown paper organic bin liners.
Ruairidh is the only young shearer on North Uist.
Ms MacPhee said: “Ideally the best wool will come from the first shearing of hoggs or ‘osthaisgean’ as the fleece tends to get coarser as the sheep matures.” Uist Wool can take up to 10 good quality fleeces per crofter, and will provide the exemption letter needed by the British Wool Marketing Board to use the fleece for artisanal/craft purposes. If you are interested in donating or selling fleece to Uist Wool in 2012 please contact
Dana MacPhee info@uistwool.co.uk or 0779 856 1022.
HARRIS
●
BERNERAY
●
NORTH UIST
●
BENBECULA
●
SOUTH UIST
●
ERISKAY
●
island news & ADVERTISER
Galas & Games ............V
▼
Sport ........................................IV
Boat trips to St Kilda, Monach Isles and more Adventure Capital of the Hebrides
▼
Music ...................................II-III
uistoutdoor centre Gift vouchers for all trips
▼
Holiday
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Sea kayaking/Climbing
▼
JULY 2012 Edition 02
●
Daily activities
Guided Walks ..............VI
uistoutdoor centre
Arts & Crafts ................VII
Tel: 01876 500480 e: info@uistoutdoorcentre.co.uk www.uistoutdoorcentre.co.uk
All this too .....................VIII
IT’S SHOWTIME! AGRICULTURAL SHOWS South Uist & Benbecula Agricultural Society Show Saturday July 21 Iochdar showground from 10am. All the usual attractions of a show, with cattle, sheep and horses and stalls, and a hall groaning with baking, crafts and produce. With an emphasis on family fun, new this year is a puppet show and pony rides. Also new is a fire service car cutting demo. Displays include tractors and vintage buses; and don’t forget to enter your pooch into the ever popular dog show.
OBBE FISHINGS SET IN THE MAGNIFICENT SCENERY OF SOUTH HARRIS
South Harris Agricultural Show Tuesday July 31 Leverhulme Memorial School, Leverburgh, Isle of Harris from 12pm.
This year’s show will be opened by comedian Norman MacLean and will feature a procession of pipers, tractors and children in fancy dress to welcome all comers to the event. Music will be provided by the Uist Pipe Band and, as well as the usual livestock, horticulture and homemaking competitions there will be stalls and stands and entertainment for all, including Cyril the Squirrel and his Racing Terriers, World Champion Fly Caster Hywell Morgan, The Drakes of Hazard, Chainsaw Pete and Bubbles the Clown. Competitors and spectators are invited to finish out the day in style with a licensed evening ceilidh dance to the strains of the Skippinish ceilidh band.
Natural system of 5 lochs Varied fly fishing from bank or boat from June to end October Easy Access to all lochs Fishing tackle available for hire Ghillie and boats available Sea fishing also available C O N TAC T : T I M A R M S T RO N G
01859 520 466 / 07919 988 380 w w w. o b b e f i s h i n g s . c o m
Music Barrafest Thursday July 26 to Saturday July 28 Castlebay and surrounds, Isle of Barra. Thursday Opening Ceilidh featuring Blair Douglas, Cathy Ann MacPhee and Kathleen MacInnes. Friday evening session from 6pm On Tangasdale machair, festival fun and music in the Barrafest Marquee. Saturday afternoon from 2-5pm More festival fun and music in the Barrafest marquee. Saturday evening session from 6pm Tangasdale machair, featuring Breton Pipe Band, Lemon Party, Vatersay Boys, Nollie & Co, Our Small Capital and Face the West.
Ticket prices, how to book and further details on www.barrafest.co.uk
II ~ Island News and Advertiser Holiday Guide July 2012
JULYevents PROCLAIMERS,WATERBOYS AND JULIE FOWLIS Stornoway, Lewis July 11-14 Celebrating 17 years, the award winning Hebcelt is renowned for its truly special party atmosphere which radiates out from its epicentre in the Castle Grounds to our outermost communities. Super shows headlined by The Waterboys,The Proclaimers and new stars Kassidy alongside a myriad of up and coming and established acts including Roddy Woomble, Admiral Fallow, Skerryvore and Mànran; pulsating dance grooves from Niteworks and Sketch; thought provoking performers such as Frank Yamma, Heidi Talbot and homegrown rising talent Isobel Ann Martin. And so many more. Many new features have been added to the main arena to compliment our earlier afternoon starts on Friday and Saturday - guaranteed to keep you amused and entertained.
HEADLINE
We have a new kid’s zone with storytelling and workshops; a new ‘pop up’series including magicians, monsters and sunshine salesmen.Yes you heard right, can’t take these things for granted.
Outwith the main site we have a fabulous series of concerts in An Lanntair arts centre,headlined by Julie Fowlis,one of our most famous musical exports,alongside a stunning array of talent from home and abroad. HebCelt on Tour reaches out to the venues around Lewis and Harris and in the town you’ll find a myriad of activities including circus skills workshops,walks and talks,family concerts,live radio broadcast sessions and more.
Go and enjoy! More details on the festival can be found at www.hebceltfest.com
Music is our Gaelic
SUMMER FESTIVAL, and you’re invited to enjoy it
Ceòlas 2012 Evening/Community Programme: School: 9.30 – 3.30pm
Slighe na Beinne “Cul na Béinne Móire”
DAY
AFTERNOON 3.30 - 6.30pm
EVENING 8.00 - 10.00pm
NIGHT EVENTS 10.30 - 1.00am
MC EVENT
Sun. 1st July
11.30am Gaelic Mass 12.30pm REGISTRATION in St Peters Hall 7.00pm REGISTRATION in St Peters Hall
7.30pm Welcome Cèilidh in St Peters Hall
Hotels
Mairi MacInnes
Mon. 2nd July
3.30pm Marie Melnyczuk Art Exhibition Daliburgh School
8.00pm Piping Concert in St Peters Hall
Hotels
Tues. 3rd July
10.00am - 4pm Scarecrow Workshop with Machair Life Southend Hall.
7.00pm Arts Centre Feasibility Study Launch, St Peters Hall
8.30pm House Ceilidhs
A symposium on the east side, from Lochcarnan to Loch Skipport
21- 24th July 2012
Iochdar School, Iochdar, Isle of South Uist, HS8 5RQ
Evening Entertainment Monday July 23 - 8.00pm
Family Ceilidh with Kathleen MacInnes, Cathy Ann MacPhee, Angus MacColl + local artists. £10
7.30pm Launch of KN MacDonald’s 1901 Puirt-aBeul book re-edited by Will Lamb. Southend Hall, preceding song concert
8.00pm Singing Concert Southend Hall
10.00pm - 1.00am Dance Eriskay
Thur. 5th July
4.30pm Walk - Tipperton to Orosay. Bus picks up at 4.15pm from school
8.00pm - 1.00am Dance & Fiddle Night St Peter’s Hall
Hotel Sessions
Fri. 6th July
11.00am Domhnall Uileam Stiubhart lecture on Martin Martin - Daliburgh School 3.00pm - 4.30pm Crossover in School
7.30pm Cèilidh Mor in Southend Hall
Hotels
SUMMER FESTIVAL
Dance to Iain Cameron Band. £10
£8/£10 Concert £5 Dance
£3 Walk £8/£10 Dance
£10 Cèilidh
ALL DAY BREAKFASTS ● ●
South Uist Church of Scotland
Cailean MacLean (singing concert)
Tony Kearney
Gaelic
Summer Services in 2012
11.00pm
£8/£10 Concert
£3 Walk
Piping Concert with Angus MacColl, Seonaidh MacIntyre. £10
Tuesday July 24 - 7.30pm
Cailean MacLean
Wed. 4th July
info@ceolas.co.uk
www.ceolas.co.uk
£5
4.30pm “Walk and a Dram” A bus will take people to Eriskay and the walk happens there with DR Campbell
For more information contact Ceólas
Tel: 01878 700154
COST
● ●
Toasties Jacket Potatoes Paninis Filled Rolls
●
Soup
●
Fish Suppers
●
Hot/Cold Drinks
TAKE AWAY OR SIT IN
July 1: 11am at Daliburgh only July 8, 15, 22, and 29: 10.30am at Daliburgh & 12 noon at Howmore
Talla an lochdair, South Uist
August 5: 11am at Howmore only
Tel: 01870 610444
ALL VISITORS MOST WELCOME
Tues - Sat 12 - 3pm, 5 - 8pm Sun 5 - 8pm
Opening Hours: Monday Closed,
Island News and Advertiser Holiday Guide July 2012 ~
III
JULYevents
Sport
▼ ▼
back as quickly as they can. This inclusive event offers categories for all the family and the race is celebrated with live music in the square both before the off and after it’s over. Prizes will be presented at the following evening’s fisherman’s dance.
Wildlife all around from seals to sea eagles. Full day trips to the Monach Islands with up to five hours ashore:
▼
Saturday July 7 Castlebay Square, Barra.
Explore North Uist’s fascinating offshore islands
Two trips in weeks beginning June 4 and June 18.
▼
Runners and athletes from all over the islands will head for the Heaval –Barra’s own hill race, held here for the past 40 years. Starting and finishing in Castlebay Square, the Heaval challenges participants to pick a route to the top of the Heaval (an ascent of 383 metres) and race
The race is over mixed terrain, from road sections to hill ascents to beach and machair tracks. Entrants are welcome on the day to take part in this well supported event, which forms part of Berneray week.
July 4, 5, 6, 19 and 20.
▼
Heaval Race, Barra
A popular 10k road and cross country race which is described by organisers as “one of the best 10k runs on the islands” offering some spectacular views from a range of vantage points across the area.
August 3, 4, 5, 19, 20 and 21.
▼
Join runners from the islands and visiting athletes as they attempt this 13.1 mile race taking in some of the stunning Harris coastline, with views across the sea to Taransay, before a 140m ascent offering panoramas towards Tarbert (with jellybeans on offer at the top!) followed by a downhill home straight with views across the Minch to Skye.The Harris Half is the
Saturday July 21nd 2012, Registration Berneray Community Hall, Borve Road from 1pm to 1.45pm.
Depart and return Kallin harbour, Grimsay.
▼
Saturday July 7th 2012, Registration:Tarbert Community Centre. Race start, Borve, Harris (buses from registration to start line) registration from 10am,race starts 1pm.
Berneray 10K Road and Cross Country Race
Cost £60 adults.
▼
Isle of Harris Half Marathon
last of the qualifying races for those looking to conquer the Hebridean Three Challenge – and those who manage this course and two other island “halfs”(choice of Benbecula, Skye, Barra or Stornoway) will receive a commemorative memento recognising their achievement – with many runners recording their fastest time on Harris, due to the nature of the course and a little help from island winds.The “Heb 3”awards will be given after the race prizes, made of hand sewn local Harris Tweed, are issued. At the finish line runners will be reunited with friends and family and can enjoy meal at the community hall to get their strength back before heading off to celebrate their achievements. For the less serious runners a fun run option is also offered.
Also popular two hour circuits round the island of Ronay, cost £20.
Contact skipper Nick on 01870 602403
Lochboisdale
ningledew@aol.com www.uistboattrips.com
Coffee Shop & Post Office has ■
Computer/Wifi Access
■
Espresso Coffee, Home Baking
■
Variety of Paninis & Bagels
■
Cheeseburger and Chips, Grill Menu
■
Homemade Salar Salmon pate
■
In our Shop we have Retro Sweets, Costume Jewellery, Harris Tweed Handbags and Mice.
■
Wide range of Contemporary Greetings Cards, Local Artwork and Canvas Prints
■
Not forgetting our Mr Whippy Ice Cream, it’s Heavenly!
Golf and Graze at Askernish Golf Club
North Uist Estate BROWN & SEA TROUT FISHING AT ITS BEST
Permits from £6.00 per day, available from Lochmaddy Hotel Post Office, Kenneth Drive, Lochboisdale, South Uist HS8 5TH
Tel: 01878700313 f: Lochboisdale Internet Coffee Shop T: UistCoffeeShop
IV ~ Island News and Advertiser Holiday Guide July 2012
Tel: 01876 500331 & Estate Office Tel: 01876 500329
Rods available for hire
- 18 Holes of Golf - Par 72 Links Course - Host of the Western Isles County Championships 2012 - Visitors welcomed, food & beverage available - Telephone 01878 708004, or email scott.hamilton@storasuibhist.com for enquiries
- Bring this Voucher along to Askernish Golf Club, play 18 holes of golf and have soup and a sandwich after your round for £20 per person per voucher - Voucher valid until 31st August 2012 - Subject to availability
JULYevents
Galas & Games
South Uist Games and Piping Society Wednesday July 18 Askernish South Uist, from 10am. Join the community of South Uist for a day of traditional Highland Games. See competitors try their hand at the signature Highland sporting challenges such as the hammer throw, with a wide range of other attractions on offer as well – from light field events and running to wrestling and the Tug o’War.Visitors will be able to enjoy piping and dancing displays and there will be a range of stalls and refreshments to keep visitors of all ages entertained throughout the event.
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
Tel: 01876 510304 Hougharry, North Uist, HS6 5DL Mob: 07748 267996 www.balranaldhebrideanholidays.com email: info@balranaldhebrideanholidays.com
North Uist Highland Games Friday July 21 Balelone Field, near Tigharry, North Uist, from 10am. North Uist’s celebration of Highland pursuits takes place on stunning machair on the west coast of the island. A selection of traditional light and heavy
BHS-registered
■
Pony Club Centre
■
Riding School
■
Livery Yard
■
Trekking Centre
■
Qualified Staff
Uist Community Riding School Welcomes You Visit us and try out our wide range of horse-related activities. Own-a-pony days, gymkhanas, pony pampers, picnic rides, instruction, beach paddles and more. Our full stable ranges from Shetlands to a Suffolk Punch. We match our horses to suit all ages and abilities. Phone or email any time. East Camp, Balivanich, Isle of Benbecula, Outer Hebrides, H57 5LA.
Tel: 01870 602808 email: info@ridehebrides.org www.ridehebrides.org Company No. 187242. Charity No. SC028094.
Saturday July 14 to Saturday July 21, various locations across the islands. A week of sheepdog trials set in various locations across the islands. Competitiors from across the country and some of the most spectacular surroundings for sheepdog events in Scotland. Family friendly, with a small charge for spectators.
BERNERAY WEEK
Saturday
July 14 Waternish, Isle of Skye
Monday
July 16 Berneray Machair, Isle of Berneray
Friday July 13 to Saturday July 21, various locations, Berneray.
Tuesday
July 17 Scarista Machair, Isle of Harris
A celebration of the best of Berneray for residents and visitors alike. Opens Friday with a ceilidh from 9pm in the hall. Saturday is RNLI open day at the harbour from 11am onwards with BBQ. Monday offers Gaelic taster classes (11am/2pm) and Gaelic song classes (4pm-5pm) before a ceilidh with Ally K and band at 9pm.Tuesday is sports day on the machair, as well as craft sale and teas in the hall, from 2pm.Wednesday has more Gaelic tasters, sandcastle competition and kite flying (participants should be at the hall at 1.30pm) before a beach BBQ from 8pm.Thursday sees the famous treasure hunt,starting in the hall at 1pm,and an evening quiz competing for the ‘Brains of Berneray’trophy from 8pm. Friday has a ceilidh from 9pm in the hall. The week ends with the Berneray 10K (see sport pIV) and a traditional concert in the hall at 7.45pm.
Wednesday July 18 Shawbost, Isle of Lewis Thursday
July 19 Ness, Isle of Lewis
Friday
July 20 Staffin, Isle of Skye
Saturday
July 21 Dunvegan, Isle of Skye
SOLLAS WEEK
■
events, athletics, hill race, piping, dancing and the hotly contested tug o’ war between districts. Stalls and entertainment with something for all the family.
Hebridean Sheepdog Trials Circuit
Saturday July 21 to Friday July 27 Taigh Sgire Sholais and Sollas Marquee,Sollas,North Uist. A week of events for all the family. From ceilidhs and music performances to opportunities to learn about local history and Gaelic culture, as well as walking and sporting opportunities for the more active. Full details to be published on www.sollasgolfcourse.co.uk in advance of the event.
Island News and Advertiser Holiday Guide July 2012 ~
V
Guided Walks Mondays JULY 2,9,16,23 and 30
JULYevents remains of a fish wall. Amazing views of the Little Minch. Reasonable fitness required. Contact Jerry Luty on 01859 530311 or 07827 941893 to check that the walk will be going ahead on your preferred date.
Northton Machair MacGillivray Centre and Cafe, Northton, Harris, meet 2pm. Join crofter Gavin Scott Forest for a two to three hour exploration of traditional croft land and machair. This easy walk takes visitors to the site of a medieval chapel on the headland at the foot of Ceapabhal, Harris’s westernmost summit. No booking required,for further information contact Gavin Scott Forest on 01859 520244.
Quidinish (Cuidhtinis) Point, Bays of Harris Cnoceisgein, Quidinish (see directions below), meet 1.30pm. Jerry Luty leads this four hour walk from his home at Cnoceisgein (take the turning almost opposite the ‘Fleiodabay’ road.) The five mile walk follows the shore from the house, passing black house ruins, the
Wednesdays JULY 4,11, 18 and 25 Leverburgh Waterfall Walk Kintulavig,Tower Road, Leverburgh, 1pm. A three and a half mile route taking in the nearby lochs before tackling two moderate hill climbs (moderate level of fitness required). Views over the village of Leverburgh and the Sound of Harris.Stunning natural waterfall. Guide Jeff Edwards helps walkers keep spot eagles along the route. No booking required, for further information contact Jeff Edwards on 01859 520362 or 07918 931876.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse & Beinn Scorabaig (Wed July 4 and 18 only) Cean a Muigh turning circle, Outend, Scalpay, 6.30pm.
Unwind in Nature ARGO CAT ADVENTURES
Join Jezz Wheeler for this three hour evening walk specifically aimed at wildlife watching and photography.The three to four mile route requires a moderate level of fitness and explores the eastern tip of Scalpay. Spot seals, otters and seabirds, maybe even eagles along the way.Views over the Shiants and surrounding North Harris hills. No booking required,for further information contact Jezz Wheeler on 07917 264408.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse, Scalpay (Wed July 11 and 25 only) Cean a Muigh turning circle, Outend, Isle of Scalpay, 12.15pm (take 11.50am bus from Tarbert if using public transport). Retired teacher Jean Mills shares her passion ●
Remote Archaeology Tours
●
Wildlife Experiences
●
Photography Tours
●
Wilderness Fishing Adventures
●
Group Adventures
●
Archaeology Discovery Tours
●
Sunday Specials for Trout Anglers, remote lochs, guided experience. (Group discounts available)
●
Departing 10am and 2pm Monday,Tuesday, Wednesday,Thursday and Friday This is the ultimate experience into the hidden Uist environment. Great fun for all the family. We regularly see Golden Eagles, Sea Eagles, Otters, Hen Harriers, Short Eared Owls, Red Deer and so much more.
Half Day Adventures £45 per person
●
Full Day Adventures £75 per person
BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE NOW ON
07543 094491 or 01870 602525 www.unwindinnature.com email: info@unwindinnature.com
VI ~ Island News and Advertiser Holiday Guide July 2012
for the local culture and wildlife on this three hour walk to the remote lighthouse at the eastern tip of Scalpay.The three to four mile walk requires a moderate level of fitness and takes in coast and moor. Enjoy views to Skye and the Shiant Islands, watch out for whales, otters and seabirds. No booking required,for further information contact Jean Mills 01859 540 319.
Thursdays JULY 5,12,19 and 26 Northton to Toe Head MacGillivray Centre and Cafe, Northton, 10am. Crofter Gavin Scott Forest leads this five hour trek to Toe Head. The walk requires a good level of fitness as it crosses the Northton Machair and the undulating moorland on the slopes of Ceapabhal. Amazing vistas of North Harris, Taransay, Hiorta and the Sound of Harris with its collection of islands and reefs. Sturdy boots are required and gaiters recommended for this walk. Booking is essential. Call Gavin Scott Forest on 01859 520244.
Fridays JULY 6,13,20 and 27 Struparsaig and Loch Stocinis, Bays of Harris Geocrab road junction with C79, 1pm. Jerry Luty leads this three hour walk on the peninsula between Loch Stocinis and Geocrab.The walk, which is over three miles, leaves from the Geocrab side road near the Skoon Art Cafe and takes a footpath to the deserted township of Struparsaig. Requires moderate level of fitness. Call Jerry Luty on 01859 530 311 or 07827 941893 to check the event is going ahead.
FINSBAY FISHINGS Fishing available in Hebridean tidal and hill lochs on the Isle of Harris. Excellent wild brown trout are to be had as well as the possibility of sea trout and salmon with optional accommodation in Two Waters Lodge (sleeps 12) and Cliff Telephone for brochure. 100 Loch Fishings Tel: 01859 530397. Cottage (6).
Arts & Crafts
JULYevents The Harris Arts Festival creates an annual showcase for professional performance and local artistry, with talks, concerts, workshops and events all over the island. For further information and bookings for all events call 01859 520746 or visit www.harrisarts.org
Hand Spinning Workshop
Frank Yamma & Norrie McIver
Tuesday July 3 Tarbert Community Centre 10am to 1.30pm
Thursday July 12 Seallam! Northton, 7.30pm Frank Yamma is a Pitjantjatjara man from Australia’s central desert and speaks five languages. An extraordinary songwriter and an exceptional guitarist, he has a rich, deep and resonant voice. Renowned local singer Norrie “Tago”MacIver, from Carloway, Lewis has played at festivals all over the country and has toured in Europe and the USA. This concert is presented in association with Hebridean Celtic Festival.
Introduction to drop spindle spinning with Sheila Roderick. A fun beginners level course in a relaxed atmosphere covering fibre preparation, drafting, and using the spindle to produce a single thread which you can ply for use and take home to knit or crochet with. All materials supplied. Tickets £20 (£15 concessions)
Drawing with Mixed Media Tuesday July 17 Leverburgh School 10am to 3.30pm Local artist Lena Maclean leads a full day workshop helping people to open up their drawing potential. Experiment with different methods and mixed media materials. All materials will be provided. Tickets £20 (£15 concessions)
HAND SEWN Harris Tweed Crafts
Tuesday July 24 Tarbert Community Centre 10am to 3.30pm Crafty workshop using Harris Tweed. Make a lavender heart and keyring to take away. Using Harris Tweed squares as a background, design an appliqué or embroider the tweed with silk or Harris wool. All materials will be provided. Tickets £20 (£15 concessions)
Tickets £12, conc £10, children £3
Circus Skills Workshop for Families Wednesday July 11 Tarbert Community Centre 4.30 - 6pm Come and try event offering children and families the chance to try their hand at traditional circus skills such as juggling and plate spinning – all props provided. With tuition provided by professional circus performers. Tickets £3
Evening Fire Show Wednesday July 11 Harris Hotel Garden 10.15pm Open air display of fire and circus skills from professional performers. Admission free.
A Little Bit of Northern Light Friday July 13 Harris Hotel 5pm, 7pm Scottish Opera’s musical story for 4 8 year olds. Set in the not too distant future, A Little Bit of Northern Light tells an atmospheric tale of Scotland’s past, present and future. The tale is brought to life by a storyteller, a series of colourful illustrations, two instrumentalists and a singer.
www.sollasbooks.com
To visit the studio or learn how to make a book, get in touch
Sollas Bookbinding Sollas, North Uist, 01876 560338 books and boxes for sale or made to order : wedding and baby albums : workshops for adults and children : studio viewing : repair
Tue 1.30 - 3.30pm, Wed 2 - 5pm, Thu 2 - 5pm other times can be arranged
Island News and Advertiser Holiday Guide July 2012 ~
VII
…and all this too own instrument – details on www.feisbharraigh.com (booking forms for classes will available here).
Fèis Tìr an Eòrna Monday July 2 – Friday July 6 Paible School, North Uist Culture and music for children aged 8 to 18.Wide range of activities including Gaelic singing, Highland dance, drama and traditional sports including shinty.Tuition in bagpipes, chanter, whistle, fiddle, clarsach, accordion, keyboard, guitar and drums.Workshops and lessons led by skilled tutors from across the world. Gaelic practice throughout the week. Celebration ceilidh at end of week.
Fèis Tìr a’Mhurain Monday July 9 – Friday July 13 Sgoil An Iochdair. Iochdar,South Uist. For young people aged five and up who can communicate in Gaelic. Welcomes participants from Eriskay, Benbecula and the Uists – as well as others from outwith the area who are keen to take advantage of Gaelic medium. All tuition in Gaelic. Drama, singing, Highland dancing and media workshops and lessons in the tin whistle, guitar, and drumming.
Fèis Bharraigh Monday July 9 – Friday July 13 Castlebay School and various other venues, Isle of Barra. Fun and learning with the emphasis on traditional disciplines for pupils aged 4-18. Wide range of Gaelic creative play and artistic activities tuition in fiddle, clarsach, keyboard and drumming. Locals can join the rent to buy scheme to help buy their
Details and booking are available at www.ceol-uibhist.co.uk.
Tarbert Fiddle Week Monday July 16 to Friday July 20, Tarbert, Harris. Learn traditional Scottish music over five days with some of Scotland’s leading fiddle players. The five day
Saturday June 9 Boat trip from Kyles Scalpay to former settlements of Southern Pairc between Loch Seaforth and Loch Claidh. Departs 11am. Friday June 15 - Saturday June 16 Castlebay, Barra Two day conference to commemorate the abandonment of Mingulay. Includes boat trip and ceilidh. Saturday July 28 Glenbrittle, Skye Walk with Cailean Maclean to Rudha an Dunain, ancestral home of Clan Macaskill. Saturday August 11 Boat trip from Miavaig, Lewis to Loch Roag islands. Departs 11am.
Advance Booking is Essential for All Boat Trips
event is a unique opportunity for fiddlers, with places available on intermediate to advanced level lessons. Instruction takes place 10am to 5pm on each day, usually in Tarbert Community Hall. Evenings will offer opportunities to relax in various venues with a tune or two! For more information or to book visit www.hebfiddle.com or call 07920 843390.
Highlands and Islands Young Piper of the Year Thursday July 19 9am Sgoil Lionacleit and Dark Island Hotel Benbecula.
Saturday July 7, Balivanich Hall and surrounds, Benbecula from 10.30am More than 40 local producers will showcase their produce in the hall in a Taste of the Isles extravaganza. Benbecula Fun Day kicks off at noon with pony rides, bouncy castle, face painting, sumo suits, games and much more. Music and chat supplied by Uist’s fledgling An Radio, broadcasting in the square.
Island Markets,Barra
This prestigious piping contest is for pipers aged 30 and under and includes events for under 18s,under 15s,novice piping and open chanter.Followed by Piper’s Ceilidh,Dark Island Hotel. For more information email eala311@aol.com.
Taste of the Isles & Fun Day
July 7 in conjunction with the Heaval Race. Castlebay Community Hall. July 21 Castlebay school. Island markets start at 2pm. To book a stall or event, call Sarah MacLean on 01871 810634 info@islandmarket.org.uk
Enjoy Summer on
STRUAN HOUSE Your lochside haven in North Uist ●
Comfortable, relaxing ground floor B&B Close to beaches and Balranald RSPB reserve ● Dozens of birds to spot, from tiny wren to majestic sea eagle ● Trout fishing by permit in loch ● Glimpse our neighbourhood otter and corncrakes ● Enjoy home baking and local produce ●
A warm welcome from Anne and Graeme
www.theislandsbooktrust.com
Telephone: 01876 510787
Enquiries and bookings:
Mobile: 07514 534628
01851 820946/880737
anneerobertson@yahoo.com
Grimsay The famous Summer Teas organised by the ladies of Grimsay start on Thursday July 5 in the Kallin Canteen.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Sandwiches, home baking available every
Roads advice for Tourists/Motorists visiting Western Isles over the Summer months Throughout the year a large number of people come to visit our beautiful islands to enjoy a well earned holiday in the peace and tranquillity of the Western Isles. However there is a hazard which some drivers may never have come across - single track roads. Here are a few tips for people driving on these roads: ● Use passing places properly – you stop on your nearside (passenger side) please do not cross over to the other side of the road. ● Don’t be distracted - you may be enjoying the scenery but please let traffic flow freely.Check your mirrors regularly and allow vehicles to pass. ● Speed – don’t drive too fast for the road conditions and especially when you don’t know the area. ● Expect the unexpected – animals may decide to wander onto the road at any time and also be aware of mud or other debris.
Beware of cyclists/walkers – please allow them plenty room as you pass by.In relation to cyclists – please wait at the passing place for them to reach you and also cyclists please wait at the passing place if you see a car coming rather than try to carry on. ● Horses – Drivers should watch out for horses on the road, especially when approaching bends and on narrow rural roads. Always slow down when seeing a horse and pass by slowly. Give them plenty of room and be ready to stop if necessary. Drivers should never sound their horn or rev their engine near horses. ● As always – do not drink and drive,do not use your phone whilst driving and always wear your seatbelt. ●
POLICE STATION BALIVANICH ISLE OF BENBECULA HS7 5LA TELEPHONE: 01871 810276 FACSIMILE:01871 810509
VIII ~ Island News and Advertiser Holiday Guide July 2012
Thursday, Friday and Saturday until August 11 from noon to 4 pm. All welcome. This year’s exhibition in the Canteen will be “Betwixt Harbours”, photographs by Lisa Woodin of Gearra Dubh, Grimsay.
While on Grimsay, stop in at Kallin Harbour or Kallin Shellfish to buy fresh lobster, prawn and crab caught by the Uist fleet in the Minch and Atlantic.
The Grimsay Boat Trail has 3 exhibitions open at all times:
“Betwixt Harbours” by Lisa Woodin
■
the Old Boatshed at Kenary, where the Stewart boats were built for 150 years
■
the Grimsay Boatshed where the fishing fleet is repaired today, with an outside display plus a small museum (weekdays only)
■
and, at the old harbour at Bagh Mor, the permanent exhibition on Grimsay fishing, Togail Mhath / The Catch.
Issue 5 - island news & ADVERTISER
TOP VOLUNTEERS HONOURED IN AWARDS CEREMONY
Jamie Quarm: athlete and volunteer.
They put in hundreds of hours each year for their community, and now their community has had a chance to say thanks.
In the first ever ceremony of its kind on these islands, four of Uist’s finest received awards for their selfless efforts. The winners were nominated by their communities in an initiative to mark Volunteer’s Week 2012, masterminded by Gordon MacDonald of Uist’s Volunteer Centre Western Isles. The awards ceremony, attended by 71 people from different voluntary organisations, took place in St Mary’s Hall Griminish.
‘‘
Jamie is a shining example and role model to young people on the island... he is very well respected by the young people he trains and inspires. He gives selflessly of his time, week in week out.
‘‘
Jamie Quarm, 24, has been an athletics coach with North Uist Amateur Athletics Club for the past eight years, and is also a volunteer firefighter. Those who nominated him had this to say about him: “Jamie is a shining example and role
Beauty BY FIONA
Luxury Manicure...... £10 Pedicure ........................ £10 File & Polish ............... £10 Eyebrow Wax ................ £5 Full leg Wax ................ £13
Under arm Wax ........... £6 Bikini Wax ....................... £9 Eyelash tint .................... £5 Eyebrow tint .................. £5 Eyebrow shape ............ £4
Half leg Wax .................. £8 Eyebrow tint, Eyebrow tint & Wax ............................ £14 Neck, Back &+ Shoulder Massage (30mins)...... £14 Full Body massage (60mins) ........................................ £23 Please contact me on:
07888 070264 email: Fiona__xx@live.co.uk
model to young people on the island... he is very well respected by the young people he trains and inspires. He gives selflessly of his time week in, week out.” Ronnie MacPhee has dedicated himself to Iochdar youth club for more than 15 years. His nominators said: “Ronnie has a natural way with children. He treats them with respect and values their opinions which they are encouraged to freely express…. Nothing is too much, especially if he sees it of being of benefit to the children. A group of children said if they weren’t at youth club they would be doing nothing at all or watching TV.” Volunteering Organisation/Community Group of the Year went to Sgoil an lochdair agus a’ Choimhearsnachd, a group set up to improve the recreational facilities in the area around lochdar school. One of the driving forces behind the organisation, Dr Kate Dawson received the trophy on behalf of the group. She said: “We are very pleased to have won this award; sometimes when things are not going our way it feels that we aren’t making any progress, and it is good to know our efforts are not unappreciated. We hope that we can continue to give people plenty of opportunities to join us and join in our activities. There are thanks due to many people over the last 14 years who have contributed to what we have achieved, some of whom have moved on.” Lifetime volunteer winner Jean Branagan, with more than six decades of voluntary work under her belt, has just turned 90. She was honoured at the ceremony with two awards, one as winner of the Lifetime Commitment Towards Volunteering category, and one for her lifetime’s achievement with a new permanent trophy to be presented every year by Tagsa Uibhist.
Tagsa director Dr Peter Keiller said: “We are acknowledging someone who for the past 60 odd years has been working quietly away in a huge number of organisations in lots of different roles. “The difficulties and frustrations of the sort of work that she has been involved with, where the goalposts constantly change, would have led many less determined folk to have long since put their feet up. She is however made of sterner stuff and although entering her 10th decade, she continues to be a most dependable and regular contributor to the organisations she is currently working with.” Gordon MacDonald gave a special presentation of flowers to Catriona Morrison of Community Education for her support of the event.
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
under 25
Jamie Quarm
Jamie Quarm receives his award from Donna Hogg of Lovats Stores.
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
over 25
Ronnie MacPhee
Ronnie MacPhee receives his award from Dr Kate Dawson.
VOLUNTEERING ORGANISATION/COMMUNITY GROUP OF THE YEAR
Sgoil an Iochdair agus a’ Choimhearsnachd
Dr Kate Dawson received the award on behalf of the organisation from Fergus Walker, QinetiQ.
Mr MacDonald said the success of the awards ceremony means it will now become a regular fixture in the island calendar. He said: “Having spent five months organising the event, I was delighted that it was so well attended and received by everyone. It is encouraging that sponsors have pledged their commitment to supporting the event in the future. I believe the awards ceremony will go from strength to strength. I would like to extend my congratulations to all the recipients of the awards, all of whom are ambassadors and role models to volunteering within the Uists.”
LIFETIME COMMITMENT TOWARDS VOLUNTEERING
Jean Branagan
Jean Branagan receives her award from Donald John MacDonald,VCWI vice-chairman
7
8
island news & ADVERTISER - Issue 5
People
Donald was postman in St Kilda for a day.
Lochmaddy man looks back on six decades of working in his community A milestone birthday is a good excuse for a spot of nostalgia. When Donald John Campbell turned 80 last month,friends and family gathered to hear him reminisce about no less than 62 years working at the heart of his Lochmaddy community. Donald started work as a boy messenger for the then GPO in 1947. Smart in a uniform which included a pillbox type hat, Donald would deliver
Donald Campbell at his 80th birthday celebration.
telegrams on foot from Strumbane to Blashaval. Twelve words for a shilling, he recalls, at a time when morse code was used to send urgent telegrams. By the age of 18 he had progressed to junior postman, but was called up for National Service in 1950.
He was posted to Tripoli with the Ist Infantry Division, and then to Egypt for two years at the time of Suez. On demob he returned to his job at the Post Office in Lochmaddy, where he went on to work as a postman for 45 years. He has many letters of praise and thanks from the postal service for his dedication to duty in those busy and often demanding years. One of many highlights was in 1980 when he became the first official ‘postman on St Kilda providing a postal service there on just one day, August 27, when the 50th anniversary of the evacuation was being commemorated. Donald’s abilities were such that he was not allowed to retire, however. He was asked
ANNEKE’S GARDEN IS BUDDING SUCCESS She’s worked long and hard, but the toil has paid off. Anneke Kraakman’s market garden, Bunait, in Cnoc An Torrain, North Uist is bursting with Anneke vegetables and bedding Kraakman plants she’s selling to at Bunait. enthusiastic customers. Anneke brought her gardening skills to Uist after years of working in a walled garden in Perthshire for the Camphill community near Dunkeld. Her aim was to start a market garden here that would welcome volunteers and provide work for those with special needs. Her breakthrough came two years ago when Cnoc An Torrain crofter Peter Murray let her use a patch of land on one of his fields to start her enterprise.
Back-breaking stone-clearing, rotavating and composting followed while Anneke set her business up as a social enterprise. Her second big breakthrough came when she was awarded £4,000 towards a fibre-glass greenhouse, completed last July. Now Anneke’s garden boasts an array of organic fruit , veg and salad leaves and a wide selection of bedding plants which she sells at the plot on Saturdays. She uses the biodynamic method of horticulture, designed to stimulate soil life. The garden doesn’t keep Anneke’s body
Bayhead, North Uist Open all hours
We are a small family run Boarding Kennels who want to look after your pets as you would.
01876 510223 or 07922 178880
She can be contacted on: 07746 117762
If visitors from the Jerusha Kanyua Memorial Church in Chuka, Kenya were hoping to experience rain and storms on their first visit to Uist,they were to be sorely disappointed.
North Uist
Please call Gillian to inspect our facilities or to discuss individual requirements on:
and soul together however, so in addition to the hard graft of gardening, she has several other jobs to keep her financially afloat. Her commitment is inspiring others to do more with their land. Anneke said: “I’ve been so impressed at people’s gardening zeal here. Several crofters have been coming to me for vegetable plants, and one in particular is starting to grow potatoes, cabbage, onions and leeks on the machair. Hopefully crofters are happy for me to grow plants for them, as they don’t have the time in the early spring, what with lambing. You need to put a lot of attention into plants.” Anneke will be starting a vegetable box scheme with other growers this month.
From dry land to parched land
BOARDING KENNELS
Individual needs catered for including; ● Medication given ● Daily beach walks for dogs ● Heated beds for cats ● Large outside exercise pens for dogs. ● Collection and delivery service across the Islands
Anneke with customers in her market garden.
in 1992 to take over the Registry service, and turned a bedroom in his home into an office. The living room served as a venue for countless weddings. Donald finally retired as Registrar in 2008. Celebrating his birthday in Lochmaddy hotel, Donald also took the opportunity to pay tribute to those who had helped him look after his wife Sheila in her long years of illness. Donald remains at the heart of his community, an oracle for those tracing their families and looking for roots and connections. “There aren’t many who can say they’ve worked for their community for more than sixty years,” he says with pride.
Catherine MacRury with Irene Gitari.
The group (Ben, Mike, Irene, Karimi and Marjaree) spent three weeks in the islands last month strengthening their ties with their twinned church of Griminish, Benbecula.
Members of Griminish visited their church last year. The Kenyans’ time in Uist was spent barbequing on the beach, climbing Rueval and planting trees for the Jubilee Woodland Trust with not a drop of rain on the horizon. The visitors were piped off the ferry at Lochmaddy by Sgoil Lionacleit pipe band, a moment they described as “like a state welcome, it made us cry.” Team member Ciliaka Kamari said: “The people here have been loving and friendly.” Rev Andy Downie of Griminish church said: “We are left with a huge sense of gratitude to God for the blessing, vision and encouragement He brought us
through these mission visitors.” The Chuka church was founded by Scottish missionary Dr Clive Urwin in 1922. He went on to create hospitals and schools which still thrive in the region.
Wilson MacKinley with Marjaree Igoki.
Issue 5 - island news & ADVERTISER
Catrin’s songwriting leads to recording A birthday gift has led to competition success for Grimsay teenager Catrin Evans.
Catrin Evans.
Recognising her singer/songwriting talents, Catrin’s family gave her a day in the Wee Studio in Stornoway to record one of her songs for her 15th birthday. It wasn’t long before people outside Catrin’s immediate circle also recognised her talents. Having heard her that day, Face the West musician Keith Morrison of award-winning Wee Studio asked Catrin to record a song and video as part of a Creative Scotland fund to source local talent in the Western Isles. The video auditions were judged by local people in the music scene, and Catrin was one of six chosen to record a CD of her own material. She went on to spend three days in the studio, putting five of her songs onto CD. Catrin attributes her imaginative lyrics to “reading a lot when small, fantasy novels in particular.” She said: “When the emotions I feel get too much, I have to write about them.” Catrin’s song Battleship records her feelings about “the way people judge you without really knowing you, and the people who influence what other people think of you.” Your little knights in shining armour, Have plastic hearts and clockwork souls, And the old castle in your back yard, Is fighting off the worms and moles, If you stand the test of time, then there will be no song of mine, But if you lose then I will get my way... From Battleship © Catrin Evans Meanwhile Keith Morrison has appealed to island musicians under 25 to get writing and practicing their original material for future awards under the Creative Scotland demo fund. Contact him at Wee Studio: 01851 702681
9
Music Benbecula students receive their certificates Students playing at the presentation ceremony.
Music and Gaelic students at Lews Castle College Benbecula UHI ‘graduated’ from their FE and HNC courses with a presentation in Stoneybridge hall.
Six students on the FE Traditional Music and Gaelic Course, and ten students on the HNC Music course received certificates from principal Iain MacMillan. Austrian piper Christian Gamauf was awarded the Ceòlas prize for Gaelic music; Mallaig fiddler Rebecca McLean won the Ceol Mor prize for most improved musician and Caitlin McNeill, a singer/guitarist from Colonsay was awarded the Feis Rois
prize for Student Music Tutor of the Year. In his address, Mr MacMillan, who is originally from South Uist, praised the Benbecula college as ‘something special and unique.’ He said: “How do you put into words what is special about the Uists? You have to experience it. Through Benbecula college we are able to link the strong musical tradition of the Uists with a formal qualification. The new
BA in Applied Music starting next term adds something to what we have to offer young people and share with the rest of the world.” Course leader Anna Wendy Stevenson told her students: “You are very different from previous years because you are all one age group together. I am very impressed with you all. I have watched you all grow, and you have changed. I am very proud of you.”
Rebecca McLean won the Ceol Mor prize.
Christian Gamauf won the Ceolas prize for Gaelic music.
Caitlin McNeill was awarded the Feis Rois prize.
Uist Mòd’s successful revival Mòd Ionadail Uibhist Committee would like to thank all who supported and helped in any way over a very successful two day event held in Sgoil an Iochdair last month,the first Mòd to be held in eight years,writes Fiona MacAulay. There was a great turnout with well over 200 children from the Butt to Barra and as far afield as Newton Mearns, competing in oral, vocal and instrumental categories. The Prizewinners Concert was just a taste of the talent that is amongst us. Beann an taighe, Catriona Nic a’ Phi showcased a fantastic evening. A special thanks to Hebridean Jewellery
who assisted with the purchasing of our trophies and shields. To Mrs M T MacInnes, headteacher of Sgoil an Iochdair, who supported in the run up to our event. Also, to all competitors, parents and schools who travelled from near and far and worked hard in preparing for competitions, well done to you all! Moran Taing, tha sinn ’n dochas gum faic sinn sibh an ath bhliadhn’.
Uist Mod winners Cailean Martindale, Amber Mac Vicar, Ruaraidh Gray and Alasdair MacIssaac proudly show their trophies.
PETER’S RIGHT ROYAL COMPOSITION A composition by former Benbecula college music student Peter Cooper was played at the installation of Princess Anne as chancellor of UHI in Inverness last month. The piece, inspired by a traditional march, was played at the ceremony in
Inverness Cathedral by the Highland Youth Orchestra. Peter, who describes himself as “new to Scottish music’ used traditional instruments in his work and was aided in his composition by workshop tutor Rick Taylor of Skye.
10
island news & ADVERTISER - Issue 5
Sport Football Reporter: Archie MacCorquodale
Co-op Cup Round 2 Barra remain the only Uist & Barra side left in this year’s Co-op cup competition after a narrow victory over Harris with Iochar Saints having lost to Back in round 1 along with Southend who failed to raise a team to travel to Carloway. It’s left to the Barra lads to fly the flag for Uist & Barra League in the quarter finals where they will host Point.
Barra 2 Harris 1 Craig Ferguson and Steven Davidson netted the goals that saw off Harris in the match played in Benbecula.
Benbecula 0 Westside 1 Lewis side Westside progressed to the quarter finals after travelling to Liniclate and defeating Benbecula, Westside started the match the better and D.J Clinton almost gave his side an early lead but his effort slidthe wrong side of the post , Clinton`s pace was causing problems for the Benbecula defence and again he was on the end of a “spike” Smith through ball but Benbecula keeper Stuart Menzies again denied the striker with a fine blocking save , as the first half wore on Benbecula came more into the game and Sean Maciness turned in the area only for his shot to be well saved by the Westside keeper. Gary Skinner was then unfortunate on two occasions when firstly his free kick came back of the crossbar and within five minutes he again was denied when his wicked corner deceived everybody but came back off the crossbar and cleared to safety. The second half became more of a dogged midfield tussle with lots of misplaced passes from both sides but after 15mins Westside made the breakthrough and again it was the pace of D.J Clinton that got him clear of the Benbecula defence but although he was running away from goal he was upended by Benbecula keeper Stuart Menzies. Martin Sheilds converted from the spot in what was
A jubilant Beth Macleod runs through Stornoway with the torch.
the only goal of the match. Westside held on comfortably to progress into the draw for the quarter finals.
North Uist Utd 1 Stornoway Utd 2 In the battle of the Uniteds it was Stornoway who emerged victorious after travelling to Paible. The Lewis side took the lead when a speculative shot from Tom Lawrence should have been dealt with by North Uist keeper Ross Sutherland but the keeper spilled the ball into his own net. North Uist did get back on level terms after the break when Donnie “Big D “ Maclean drilled home a shot when the ball broke kindly to him following a corner, North Uist had chances to go ahead but Fraser “Ginge” Macdonald and “Gus” Rich both squandered good opportunities , Stornoway Utd then took the lead again when another defensive mix-up this time between Sutherland and Andy Macquarrie saw the ball break free for an easy tap in for Liam Coleman.
Midsummer Tournament 2012 Lewis and Harris won their first tournament in four years with victory over hosts Uist & Barra in the final.
Uist & Barra 2 Glasgow Island 1 Uist made the final with a 2-1 victory over Glasgow Island. It was a very cagey opening to the match but it was Glasgow who gradually got to grips with the early pace and created the first couple of chances which on both occasions saw Cally Mackay firstly shot wide and then his lob beat the keeper but also sailed over the crossbar. Uist & Barra who had to make numerous changes following the withdrawal of four players on the eve of the tournament started to make inroads and Hector Macphee fizzed a shot past the post , Cally Mackay then had a glaring chance at the back post but his header lacked conviction and accuracy. Duncan Steele then tried his luck with a free kick which was also cleared to safety Uist started the second half brightly forcing a couple of corners and after 15mins they took the lead when John Angus “Wee Man” Macphee weaved down the right wing and floated a superb ball to the head of Donnie Macleod who headed into the net. Glasgow then made changes with both John MacIssac and Caley Maclean
pushed into forward positions but it was Uist who should have scored when Hector Macphee raced clear but with the keeper advancing his effort failed to beat the keeper and the chance was gone . Andrew Dunn then saw a shot blocked by the Uist defence and then Duncan “Bolt” Maciness produced a great save from a shot by Caley Maclean but the striker from Mull responded by levelling the game when he smacked home a shot after a goalmouth scramble. The Glasgow bench had hardly sat back down when it was 2-1 to Uist straight from the kickoff Hector Macphee chased a long ball and this time he made amends for his earlier error by lobbing the keeper to put Uist in the final.
Two Uist runners helped carry the Olympic flame in its epic journey around Britain in Stornoway last month. Athlete Beth MacLeod from North Uist, and Kenyan orphanage founder Gemma Steele from South Uist represented part of that 5% of the British Isles where the torch did not reach. Gemma Steele with world quad bike champion John Neil Mitchell of Lewis at the half way point of the Lewis leg.
Lewis & Harris 3 Skye 2 The Indian sign still hangs over the Skye football select who have still to get their hands on the Midsummer Select Tournament but this is one match they should have won but despite leading by 2-1 going into the last eight minutes they surrendered and lost the match by 3-2 . Inness Thompson gave Skye the lead but that was cancelled out by Dan Crossly for Lewis. The impressive Scott Graham then put Skye ahead once more but as the game moved into the last eight minutes Peter Mackenzie levelled the match once more and almost on full time Scott MacIver found the net to give Lewis and Harris a final berth.
Uist & Barra 1 Lewis & Harris 4 The final was as comfortable as the score line suggests after Scott MacIver had given Lewis the lead after 10 minutes following superb work by Scott Macaulay who was also voted player of the tournament within 20mins it was 2-0 to Lewis when Alasdair Gilles smacked home a second indeed it was almost 3-0 moments later but Duncan “Bolt” Maciness denied MacIver again with a stunning save. Uist did get back into the match briefly at the start of the second half when “Wee Man” Macphee floated in a corner which deceived everyone and ended up in the net, but the response never came from a jaded looking Uist side who looked on as Lewis poured forward to make it 3-1 when Scott MacIver was on hand at the back post to get his second of the match It was only left for Peter Mackenzie to complete the scoring and make sure the trophy headed back north of the Clisham once more .
55th North Uist Primary School Sports Day The 55th North Uist Primary School Sports (NUPSS) were held at Paible School on Friday 8 June. The weather was dry, bright and chilly; the bonus was no rain or midges! The whole event ran very smoothly thanks to everyone involved. A special thank you goes to all the volunteer helpers who came along to assist in various roles. Pre-school up to P3 pupils took part in the traditional events, short, long, sack, egg and spoon and obstacle races. P4 to 7 competed in 100m, 150m, long jump, shot putt and cricket ball throw. Mr Kenny Campbell presented the boys’ prizes and both the cups. The Valley Trophy which was
UIST’S BETH AND GEMMA CARRY OLYMPIC FLAME
donated by his father the late Calum Campbell who along with other teachers in North Uist founded the NUPSS 55 years ago. Kenny also presented the Calum Campbell Memorial Cup for throwing. Mrs Chrissie MacCuish presented the girls’ prizes and the Ronay Cup donated by the late Jean Stewart and the Cuich an Sgurra for throwing which she donated herself. Over the last 55 years most of the inhabitants of North Uist will have happy memories of the excitement in taking part at the NUPSS and this year was no exception.
From left to right: Craig McClounnan, Carinish PS, Chrissie MacCuish, Lucy Ann Macleod, Carinnish PS, Kenny Campbell, Ewen Ferguson, Paible PS.
Gemma, 21, nominated for her selfless charity work in Kenya said: “I received the flame and jogged for about 5 minutes before passing it on the next torchbearer, I think I just smiled and laughed for that whole five minutes. And just like that it was over, and I wanted to do it all over again.” Ex –Scotland rugby cap and tireless advocate of youth sport, Beth said: “It was a fantastic to see the amount of people who had turned out to see it even at that early hour. It was an honour, a privilege, a really special experience which lived up to all my expectations.”
North Uist Primary School SPORTS 2012 CLASS
POSITION
NAME
P7 GIRLS P7 GIRLS P7 BOYS P7 BOYS P6 GIRLS P6 GIRLS P6 BOYS P6 BOYS P5 GIRLS P5 GIRLS P5 BOYS P5 BOYS P4 GIRLS P4 GIRLS P4 BOYS P4 BOYS P3 GIRLS P3 GIRLS P3 BOYS P3 BOYS P2 GIRLS P2 GIRLS P2 BOYS P2 BOYS P1 GIRLS P1 GIRLS P1 BOYS P1 BOYS
CHAMPION RUNNER UP CHAMPION RUNNER UP CHAMPION RUNNER UP CHAMPION RUNNER UP CHAMPION RUNNER UP CHAMPION RUNNER UP CHAMPION RUNNER UP CHAMPION RUNNER UP CHAMPION RUNNER UP CHAMPION RUNNER UP CHAMPION RUNNER UP CHAMPION RUNNER UP CHAMPION RUNNER UP CHAMPION RUNNER UP
Lucy Ann Macleod Isabel May Craig McClounnan Ewen Ferguson Zoe-Jade Muire Donna MacKinnon Innes Branagan Kenny MacKillop Trinity Johnson Marion MacCorquodale Ben Shepherd Jack MacIlwraith Kate Biddulph Stella MacKinnon Jared Muire John Scanlon Iona MacLeod Orin Shepherd Alasdair Fraser Alfie Nicholson Lauren Shepherd Poppy Scanlon Calum MacDonald Stephen MacIsaac Isabelle Rose Anna MacDonald Ryan McClounnan Keiran MacIsaac
THROWING CHAMPION
Issue 5 - island news & ADVERTISER
The Summer of 2012 Our regular feature, Paw Prints is taking a break to allow more space for IN&A to record the events of this summer. But keep sending your pet pictures in to pawprints@islandnewsandadvertiser.com and look out for them in the autumn editions!
d rl o W e th f o e g Ed e th at ce an D d Music an r music festival Feis Oir na Cruinne, At the Edge of the World set
Hougharry beach, North Uist became a sculpture park for Art on the Map’s sandcastle competition, an opportunity for visiting families and local children to unleash their creativity. A pirate boat constructed by Honor and Charlie Leveson Gower, Isabella and Rebecca de las Casas and and friends won the day.
North Uist’s first eve ances, concerts, ceilidhs and dances, and Lochmaddy buzzing with street perform and Tigh Dearg hotels. dy ad hm Loc s e’ ag vill the in sic mu live us continuo Uist who danced the half The festival opened with Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band who heralded a Taigh Ciuil concert in Taigh Chearsabhagh, featuring Sophie Ramsay from Alyth,Mata MacDonald, Sounds Like April (aka Ryan Dempsey), Craig Rose, Jamie Macrae, and The Boy Who Trapped the Sun (aka Colin Macleod form Lewis). Musicians and singers who played in the hotels included Rory Maclure , Julia Gallagher, Sophia Dale, Catrin Evans, Na h_Eileanaich, Sounds Like April, La Suzette, Eilidh MacLeod, Anna Black, Mairi Gilfedder & Friends, Broken Liberty, Craig Rose, Jamie MacRae, Sophie Ramsay and a surprise appearance by fiddler Malcolm Bushby from Australia. A family ceilidh saw performances by the Feis choir, conducted by Sharon
MacDonald, Na h-Eileanach and Face the West, whose vibrant energy brought the public from toddlers to seniors to the dance floor in droves. Face the West’s Keith Morrison supplied sound equipment and expertise from his Wee Studio in Stornoway. Another first for North Uist was a spectacular pipe band and dance parade from the pier to the hall. Uist Pipe Band led more than 30 Highland
SOLLAS FLY-IN
Dancers from mile distance in stages before a delighted crowd. The dancers, tutored by Catriona MacKinnon, first performed this feat in Disneyland, Paris and are keen to do more parade dancing across the islands. A ceilidh dance class with Morag and Neil MacPherson, and a Gaelic for Beginners class with Archie Campbell were added attractions on Saturday afternoon. Festival director Niall Johnson said: “Over the two days the Feis created a buzz and a splash of colour the likes of which Lochmaddy has not seen for a very long time. All of the performers did a wonderful job with the young people particularly being inspirational. All of the feedback points to this being an annual event, which we’re all delighted about.”
Light aircraft from around the country landed on Grenitote beach,North Uist for the annual Sollas-fly-in. Ten aircraft and one micro-light came in from the south coast, Cambridge, Mull, Orkney, Inverness and Cumbernauld to enjoy the experience of landing on Grenitote’s miles of dry, smooth sand. Poor weather on the mainland caused others to turn back. Organiser John MacLeod of Balallan said: “The weather was against us for a while, but for those who made it the beach was ideal, the best I have seen it for a long time.”
Her Majesty the Queen paid a surprise visit to Croileagan Dhunsgealair, Sollas after they raised almost £400 for nursery funds in a sponsored walk. The Croileagan team walked from the nursery to Mullach, accompanied by a large chicken gently roasting in the summer sun. ‘Her Majesty’ arrived in style and proved very gracious as she joined parents, families and friends for tea and cake.
Balivanich and Paible schools carried out clean-ups of their local area. On Poll Na Crann beach, Benbecula, 120 pupils, teachers and parent helpers filled half a skip with rubbish. They also carried out a beach survey for the Marine Conservation Society. In Paible, children cleaned up ditches in a wide radius around the school. Clean-ups have been taking place across the Uists, organised by Gordon MacDonald of Volunteer Centre Western Isles.
11