O C TO B E R 2017
G MIN NTE U M ON R LCA LO D ESS A V L NI CA ‘AL I LO OS S ‘AL NTRE, R , O S T TS CE IONS MO ET RITI R T KET IC K T TIC EEN A ODUC Y O IL TW BERD U’ PR AM A THR Y F HT A N E U CH E G L S F C IEW NI AY MO O R RS PREV MO LOU R EW IN CO HE N UC OF EL:G O E V L TT ENT LAX BO OK ATM TO RE E BO R T M Y O R 0 E RO £3 N OK CO E BASA D I E L N IL G H I G S
BUSINESS | PROPERTY | FOOD OUT & ABOUT | DRUMMING H E A LT H & W E L L - B E I N G | AU T U M N B R E A K S | W H AT ’ S O N LI F E ST YLE M AGA Z I N E / M O R AY I S S U E / P RO D U C E D AN D P R I NTE D I N M O R AY
A Gentler Pace of Life at
Strathisla Park Keith | AB55 5JS Final Phase of Beautiful 2, 3 and 4 bed Bungalows on Private Development Close to Town Centre
The Strathisla
£225,950
3 bed detached bungalow
Ask about EASYMOVE * RESERVE YOUR NEW HOME FOR JUST
£99
PLUS you’ll get your choice of flooring, your choice of kitchen and bathroom, help towards LBTT and legal fees and a 10 year warranty for your new home.
ABERLOUR SHOWHOME OPEN Thu - Mon I 11am - 5pm * EASY MOVE is available on selected plots only - subject to terms and conditions YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPLAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT. See website for details, subject to contract and status.
t 01542 880117 / 07876 413723 e sales@deveronhomes.co.uk
www.deveronhomes.co.uk
DEVERON homes
You’re looking for a gentler pace of life and now it’s yours for the asking. A brand-new bungalow on a generous plot? Then Strathisla Park, Keith is exactly what you’ve been waiting for.
A GENTLER PACE OF LIFE But you’ll need to be quick as the final phase of luxury 2, 3 and 4 bed bungalows has now been released. All homes have been designed to maximise the enjoyment of single-level living and are located on quiet avenues in a beautiful new development where there’s a real sense of community. So, if you’re searching for the ultimate retirement home, then look no further than the stunning Strathisla 3 bed bungalow. Priced at only £225,950 the property is situated on a large corner plot and will come complete with turfed garden to the front and a free flooring package also included in the price. Alternatively, The Macallan, 4 bed bungalow priced at £249,950 is another new home which is due to complete in Spring 2018. This ultra, king-size property occupies an imposing location at the gateway to the development.
One thing is for certain, you will love living close to the countryside at Strathisla Park, Keith. Showhome and completed properties available to view Thursday to Monday from 11am to 5pm. For further details
call: 01542 880117 or see www.deveronhomes.co.uk
Strathisla Park is easy to find just off the main A96 at Reidhaven Square leading to Edindiach Road. Sat Nav: AB55 5JS
DEVERON homes
LADIES & MENS
WINTER FASHON CLEARANCE SALE EVERYTHING
50%TO80% OFF
ABERDEEN FRIDAY 20th & SATURDAY 21st OCTOBER - 10am - 5pm
HILTON TREETOPS HOTEL . 161 SPRINGFIELD ROAD . ABERDEEN . AB15 7AQ
INVERNESS FRIDAY 27th & SATURDAY 28th OCTOBER - 10am - 5pm
JURYS INN . MILLBURN ROAD . INVERNESS . IV2 3TR (formerly Inverness Thistle Hotel) BRANDS INCLUDING: BETTY BARCLAY, BIANCA, OUI, MARCCAIN, ARMANI JEANS, MUSTO, AIGLE, JOULES, GANT, TOMMY HILFIGER, MICHAEL KORS, BASLER AND MANY MORE...
Brodie . by Forres . Moray . IV36 2TD . 01309 641555 enquiries@brodiecountryfare.com . www.brodiecountryfare.com
CONTENTS FEATURES 7
In Brief COVER STORY Now we are one!
8
Shed loads of men All under one roof
12 New town rising Tornagrain 17 Business Moray College Business Gateway
41 Feelgood fitness with Petra 44 Food & eating out Spice girl Christmas parties 54 Autumn breaks Lovin’ the tattie holidays... Isle of Skye
20 Out & About with Mike Rae
62 What’s on In and around Moray ‘Vee vill sae zis only vonce’...
24 Ride the North All about Adam
66 Felix Who is he?
28 Motoring Electric revolution
THIS MONTH’S COMPETITIONS
32 Rural education Ringlink
65 WIN, WIN, WIN...
33 Fergus Ewing MSP 36 Drummer boy meet Rossini Cavalcante Editor Fiona Hill Distribution MMS-Almac Ltd Advertising Rhona Patterson Barbara Playdon Publisher Colin Brown
Colours of Cluny preview family ticket for four Drumming lesson Tickets to ‘Allo, ‘Allo Bottle of Moray Mocha Room to Relax voucher Cookery book signed by Ghillie Basan
Creative Team Adam Thomas Jeff Ho David Banks Rebecca Beaton Donna Buchan Production Controller Margaret Stuart
Proofing Penny Brown Printing Graham Payne Chris Leil Finishing Leza Stuart Pre-Press Lynn Stuart
MMS ALMAC LTD Unit 6, Tyock Industrial Estate, Elgin IV30 1XY Tel: 01343 551234 All material within this magazine is subject to formal copyright restrictions and therefore the reproduction of any listings, editorial, advertising artwork or any other content, without the publisher’s prior consent, will be considered a breach of copyright.
Welcome We made it! One year since our first edition and Lifestyle magazine is thriving. With 12 editions under our belt our readership is building from strengthto-strength and we are attracting more and more advertisers who strongly believe that local promotion really does work. The old adage ‘think globally, act locally’ urges people to consider the health of the entire planet and to take action in their own communities and cities. These efforts are referred to as grassroots efforts and they occur on a local level primarily run by volunteers and helpers. So remember, Lifestyle is here for you to promote Moray’s abundance of talent, interests and culture. Moray is ours, let’s be proud of it!
... enjoy!
FIONA HILL - EDITOR
Life
Why go with the crowds when you canstand out from
Casual to Occasion
81 Mid Street, Keith AB55 5AF
01542 880479
Open 10 - 5 Monday to Saturday closed Wednesday and Sunday
IN BRIEF
Flying high
el-genius! From the heart of malt whisky country comes an ward-winning gin, batch distilled in a traditional copper still Congratulations to Elgin based El-Gin for winning a Gold Medal at the recent Scottish Gin Industry awards, which were held in Glasgow on 14th September. The awards celebrate innovation and excellence in the gin distilling industry in Scotland. The event was attended by 500 guests who, between them, shared 26 awards. In a blind tasting of 75 Scottish gins, an independent expert judging panel of 12 awarded a Gold Medal to El - Gin for Distilled Gin of the Year – a wonderful achievement for a relatively young company.
...who says the power of advertising doesn’t work? They say that big oaks from little acorns grow and there can be no better example of this old adage than Dave Dewhurst and his colourful bird houses. Since Lifestye’s article about how he started with his little houses appeared in the April issue of the magazine, Dave’s business has taken off and his houses have, quite literally, flown off the shelves. He has gone home from local craft shows having sold all his stock and many of his designs have been sent down to England. He has been contacted by Johnstons of Elgin, who now stock his work. Commissions are coming in thick and fast and Dave is happy to discuss designs with clients. A firm believer in what goes around comes around, Dave donates a percentage of his sales to charity as a ‘thank you’ for all the help he has received.
Meet some of Lifestyle’s competition winners... ‘Just to let you know we had a lovely day out on the whisky train and thoroughly enjoyed the trip. Thanks to all who were involved in this prize!’ Aileen, Portgordon ‘We have just returned from our glamping break at the loft and enjoyed it very much. We were well looked after and everything was good.’ Frances, Keith ‘My friend and I had a wonderful 3 hours with the girls at Speyside Wardrobe, colour matching, make up and trying on some wonderful colour matched outfits. All done with such graciousness and patience. it was a truly wonderful prize.’ Pat, Dufftown Have a go at this month’s competitions - see page 67... 6
1 Now We Are One!
This is quite a momentous month for everyone at Lifestyle. We have achieved so much in such a short space of time and a huge pat on the back must go to each and every one of the team who has made this possible. However, none of this would have happened without our advertisers, who have supported the magazine from the off and the public, who have followed our progress each month and seen us grow in stature. We are very proud of what we do. Here’s to the next twelve months.
Moray Community Christmas Christmas is about family get-togethers, but there are many people in Moray’s communities for whom the very thought of Christmas fills them with dread. These are people who will face Christmas alone. Stephanie Walby and Linda Allman have been fundraising in order to be able to provide a Christmas Day to remember for socially isolated people and they plan to hold the event in Grant Hall in Rothes. People can be nominated by community care, social work, GP surgeries, health visitors, day centres, neighbours or by the people themselves. All this takes a fair amount of organising, so Stephanie and Linda are looking for volunteers to help collect the guests and also to help at the lunch on the day. For more information: moraycommunitychristmas@gmail.com Stephanie: 01340 831262 or Linda: 01807 500768 Find us on Facebook
Specialists in sandstone carving, bespoke work, lime work, building and monument restoration and general stonemasonry
Speyvilla, 51 High Street, Rothes, Morayshire AB38 7AY g.laing.stonecraft@rothes.co.uk www.glaingstonecraft.com
Tel/Fax 01340 831482 Mobile 07789 693446
7
OPEN SPACES
SHED LOADS OF MEN A very simple idea but one with such far-reaching consequences. In a nutshell, Men’s Sheds can – and do - change lives. With sheds in Forres, Fochabers and others planned for Keith and Nairn, Moray has its fair share.
I
t is a well-known fact that women are far better than men at unburdening themselves. Whenever faced with any kind of a problem women will turn to their close friends, have a chat, share a glass of wine and they will talk. About the problem that is troubling them; work, relationships, children, health, decisions that have to be made – it doesn’t matter. What does matter is that they talk and a problem shared is a problem halved, so they say. Men, unlike women, do not socialise as much. At work it
8
is a different matter as there is always the camerarderie of the office or workshop before you head for home and time with the family. But what if there is no family to come home to? This is when men can all too easily turn into themselves and lose their way. Retirement, redundancy, divorce and bereavement can have a profound effect on men: suddenly their ordinary day-to-day lives take a sharp right hand turn and they are not good at coping alone.
A dedicated place where men could come and be with like-minded others...
This problem was first recognised in Australia over 12 years ago when it was realised that men in a certain situation or of a certain age (or both) needed an outlet where they could feel worthy. Many men do have a shed at the bottom of the garden, where they can be themselves and escape, be as messy as they wish and visitors are by invitation only. But, equally, many men do not. Step forward the concept of the men’s shed. A dedicated place where men could come and be with like-minded
Lifestyle MAG
others, learn a new trade, take up a long-abandoned hobby or just sit with a cup of coffee and read the paper. The important thing was that they were not alone in the room; they were surrounded by others and it did not matter if very little chat went on as they felt part of a group. It is such a simple concept but it is so very, very effective. Founded in 2015, The Scottish Men’s Sheds Association (SMSA) is an organisation whose overall purpose is to ensure that all men in Scotland have access to opportunities 9
OPEN SPACES MEN’S SHEDS Bob at the Xmas supper in Westhill Men’s Shed, holding a picture of himself aged 17 in the Navy... he is now 92 years old’
for increased citizenship and community development. They offer community based presentations, workshops and seminars and are always available to help turn ideas into reality. Any men’s shed will start as an idea. Firstly, establish if there is a shed already in existence or in the development stage and, if not, is there a need for one. Then test the water by mooting the idea with like-minded people, develop a steering group and then “build” the shed. Obtain premises. Get resources (such as funding and equipment), get members and then work together to maintain sustainability. At each and every stage of a shed’s development SMSA can be on hand to assist and guide. The benefits of men’s sheds cannot be overestimated. By coming together in a social environment men can feel invigorated, more motivated and more active which results in their being healthier and happier. Loneliness and a feeling of being worthless can be turned around by joining a shed where any man can show his skills by helping others to develop theirs. Cooking, model making, upholstering furniture, playing music and developing computer skills are just a few of the activities that can go on in a shed. Perhaps one of the most compassionate aspects of being part of a shed is being able to interact with others after a serious illness such as a stroke, when communication can be difficult: in this respect many sheds invite outside speakers to give talks and share their knowledge. In Moray there are two mens’ sheds, one in Forres and one in Fochabers. Both of them strive to promote healthier,
happier and more contented lives. There are men who are proficient in IT, leatherwork, woodturning, carpentry and fabricating to name but a few but they are all proficient in the art of making people welcome and making them feel worthy. Membership of the sheds is free and is open to all, irrespective of age or situation. Looking further afield, there are open sheds in Turriff, Inverurie, Beauly and Helmsdale, whilst Keith, Nairn and Aberchirder are in the development stage. In many instances a great deal of the tools and equipment that can be found in the sheds has been donated by widows who cannot bear to see their late husbands’ tools rusting away. Women – wives, partners or just simply friends - actively encourage men to attend these sheds as the knock-on effect is positive, as this letter (which is posted on the SMSA website) opposite shows.
Men don’t talk face-to-face, they talk shoulder-to-shoulder Professor Barry Golding, patron of the Australian Men’s Movement 10
Most men, when stuck indoors for any length of time – whether due to accident, illness, retirement or redundancy become lethargic and less and less inclined to go out of the house or take part in leisure activities. As a result they start to eat less healthily and subsequently their health suffers. Depression can be a problem. Going to the men’s shed opens up a whole new vista. Suddenly they have an eclectic mix of men to socialise with. They feel more able to discuss any problems they may have. In particular, the shed has helped Bob (pictured top left). When he first arrived, he was depressed, unwilling to open up about missing his late wife. Within a couple of weeks, and with a little encouragement, he was working on restoring a table and chatting away with the guys. When he was awarded his North Atlantic medal from President Putin, he was delighted and could not wait to share his news with his friends at the shed! The men at the shed appreciate the fact that it is an all male environment. They can be open in what they discuss, can swear if a finger is hit with a hammer and do not feel that they must either dress up for the occasion or even talk if they don’t want to! Of course I cannot omit what a great time the wives and partners have at the social evenings! We have made some really good friends at these nights as well as enjoying some first class food! I hope this gives you an idea of what the Men’s Shed means to not only the men but to their friends and family. Best wishes, Margaret
For more information www.scottishmsa.org.uk, email info@scottishmsa.org.uk or call 07397 382533. Wester Mains, Campfield, Aberdeenshire AB31 4DR
Lifestyle MAG
11
www.stephen.co.uk A & J Stephen Ltd, Stephen House, Edinburgh Road, Perth PH2 8BS
Building beautifully crafted homes since 1935
Stephen are delighted to announce the opening of their exceptional Dunvegan showhome at Tornagrain, near Inverness, Scotland’s finest new town.
Building Exceptional Homes in an Exceptional Location... Located just 8 miles east of Inverness, Stephen are building a stunning range of homes at Tornagrain. This exciting new town will be a unique place to live with a focus on community and landscape.
Outstanding choice...
2, 3 and 4 bedroom terrace, semi and detached homes
Coming soon...
1 and 2 bedroom apartments 2 and 3 bedroom cottages
Stephen are also building beautiful homes in... Scone • Guildtown • Carnock • Pitlochry • Errol • Chapelton, near Aberdeen • Brechin • Glenfarg • Clathymore, near Gleneagles
For further details about Tornagrain please contact Andrea on 07808 773135 or visit www.stephen.co.uk Showhome open Thursday to Monday 11am to 5pm. Postcode IV2 8AX
12
Prices correct as at September 2017. All images are of our Dunvegan Showhome
HOUSING The proposal for a new town at Tornagrain emerged just over 10 years ago in response to the rapid growth of the Inverness area. Moray Estates responded to the Highland Council’s strategy for the Inverness area by formulating plans for a new community of 12,000 residents, based on studies of many new and traditional communities throughout the UK and Europe.
W
hen it comes to stunning scenery and tranquil living, the Highlands of Scotland is unrivalled. With such a fantastic backdrop, a dream lifestyle is being created right now in Scotland’s latest new town, Tornagrain, located just off the A96 half way between Nairn and Inverness. To help prospective residents visualise their dream, Perth-based housebuilders Stephen have recently opened the doors to their brand new showhome, the ‘Dunvegan’. With its interiors perfectly complementing its rural location, this three bedroom home would appeal to growing families, or couples seeking more space.
Lifestyle MAG
Incorporating an open-plan kitchen, dining and family room, these homes are centred around modern living, with a comfortable lounge and well-proportioned bedrooms with a master en-suite. There is also a large family bathroom with bath and separate shower cubicle. Outside, the property won’t disappoint with an enclosed walled rear garden featuring a tranquil seating area and sensitively landscaped layout. Stephen will be building a selection of homes, with two, three and four bedroom terrace, semi and detached homes currently available, with one and two bedroom apartments and two and three bedroom cottages coming soon. The showhome is open from 11am until 5pm, Thursday to Monday. For more information, call Andrea Mitchell on 07808 773135, email sales@stephen.co.uk or visit www.stephen.co.uk.
13
HOUSING TORNAGRAIN
Inspiration is being drawn from the best of the past...
Z
eroC, part of the Places for People group, have been developing in Scotland since 2014 and have their headquarters in Poundbury in Dorset. Poundbury was the first new urbanist development in the country on land that is owned by the Duchy of Cornwall and really set the benchmark for how new developments can be done – considering people and the built environment as the primary driver for design with the car being catered for but not dictating layouts. The result is a bustling, thriving extension to Dorchester, far removed from more familiar urban sprawl of the post-war era. ZeroC build a wide variety of properties up and down the country ranging from the very modern to the very traditional. At Tornagrain, inspiration is being drawn from the best of the past including high ceilings and skirting boards to create sizable rooms, wood burning stoves to
create cosy homes and offer owners more environmentally friendly ways of heating homes than burning fossil fuels. Adding these traditional features to modern homes creates efficient and smart places that are cheap to run and keep warm, and are wired for the modern age allowing residents to stream Ultra HD TV, play as many games as they might want or browse the internet all at the same time on ultra fast fibre to the home broadband.
sales@zeroc-tornagrain.co.uk Call 01463 830490 for more information 14
S
SHOW HOME NOW OPEN Beautifully crafted homes from a trusted developer Our 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes all feature wood burning stoves and locally manufactured Ashley Ann kitchens. Prices from
ÂŁ199,500 For further details call 01463 830 490 or email sales@zeroc-tornagrain.co.uk
Visit our show home to see for yourself 3 Hillhead Road, Tornagrain, Inverness IV2 8AB Thursday to Monday 11am – 5pm
www.zeroc-tornagrain.co.uk
01542 888457
www.advancedelectrics.com info@advancedelectrics.com Unit Q1, Isla Bank Mills, Station Road, Keith, A55 5DD
Celebrating 31 years in business Advanced Electrics are proud to serve the largest names in the distilling industry. Advanced Electrics offer a design, build and installation service. • Established in 1986 now employs 26 people locally • Recognised expertise • Reputation of Excellence • COMPLEX trained technicians for hazardous area installation and inspection • Control panel design and manufacture for various production process controls • Thermal imaging, power analysing and power factor correction surveys, reports and supply Also specialise in break-down, routine maintenance and new plant installations
BUSINESS MORAY COLLEGE UHI An alliance between Moray College University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), NHS Grampian (Moray’s healthcare provider), The European Regional Development Fund and Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has resulted in the Alexander Graham Bell Centre for Digital Health – or AGB Centre – in Elgin
Specialising in education, business and events
T
he AGB Centre has been designed to bring together the expertise in digital healthcare and business within the Moray region and beyond. It is an innovative research, education and business hub, housed within a contemporary building with conference centre within the Moray College UHI campus. It provides teaching facilities for the college and also houses medical research and training rooms, used by NHS Grampian. The Centre’s state-of-the-art conferencing facilities provides an ideal venue for any meeting, conference or corporate event and, due to its flexible spaces and up to date technology, it is a popular and prestigious setting for training and seminars. Their events coordination team can offer a full events package; a single point of contact will work with you from the initial enquiry right through to completion, making sure that your event is successful. The AGB Centre also provides opportunities for business start-ups working in the field of digital health technologies and research, with the research
offices available for lease. The exciting combination of academia, health care and business creates a stimulating environment, encouraging innovation and knowledge transfer. For more information about our research offices or to discuss your forthcoming event contact us: Tel: 01343 576202 Email: agbcevents@uhi.ac.uk Web: www.moray.uhi.ac.uk/agbcentre
“Great discoveries and improvements invariably involve the co-operation of many minds” Alexander Graham Bell 1847 – 1922 Lifestyle MAG
17
STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS? start by calling Business Gateway Starting up your own business could be the best career move you ever make. If you want to make your business dream a reality, but don’t quite know where to start, we can help. Business Gateway Moray offers the information, advice, workshops and online tools you need to help you set up your business with confidence. Whatever stage you’re at, we can help. All of our services are provided FREE of charge.
Business Gateway's adviser's expert knowledge and advice was invaluable Morag Ross, Rustic & Roses
We can help with • Free Business Plan Template • Free Business Plan Checklist • Start Up Business Advice • Routes to Finance
So if you’re thinking about starting a business, make us your first call.
Be your own boss. Visit bgateway.com/moray or call 01343 508838
18
BUSINESS GATEWAY
Down to business Connecting digitally, building your own website and making videos for Facebook will be featured topics at this year’s Moray Business Week.
B
usiness Gateway is working with other Moray stakeholders to organise the digitally themed week which will run from 8th to 15th November. Throughout the week, there will be a number of specially designed workshops delivered on topics including Introduction to Social Media and Virtual and Augmented Reality. Social media is now an essential part of communication in today’s society and is the digital equivalent of word-ofmouth referrals. Craig Robertson of Business Gateway Moray has highlighted some of the key areas to consider when it comes to social media.
Use management tools – Hootsuite is great as it enables you to manage several of your key platforms including Facebook and Twitter. This allows you to schedule posts for the future, meaning you can plan ahead. Business Gateway Moray runs regular workshops on social media – visit www.bgateway/moray to see what’s on offer.
Setting goals is important - absolutely everything you do on social media should be done because it serves your ultimate aims. Your social media goals should be integrated with the rest of your digital and marketing strategy and should focus on engagement, growth and relationship building; sales should then come as a result. You don’t have to do it all – it’s just not possible to be effective on every platform. Take time to decide which ones best suit your business and customers. Be active – creating regular and exciting content is vital and adds value to your brand. Whether it’s engaging with customers, writing a blog or sharing videos, you need to give people a reason to follow you.
Lifestyle MAG
19
OUT & ABOUT WITH MIKE RAE
With the pheasant shooting season now in full swing - there’s more to this game than meets the eye. Shooting is worth at least £60million a year to the Scottish economy and supports the equivalent of 11,000 full time jobs. But the management of shoots is key to their success says Mike Rae.
T
hey just can’t wait for summer to end, short days, mud and rain, bring it on. For many, the challenge of shooting a fast, high-flying pheasant during the shooting season between October and January is an annual obsession. Feeding this obsession is an important part of the rural economy and has played a major part in moulding the shape of the countryside. Much of the woodlands and hedges that enhance the countryside and benefits wildlife would not exist if it were not for pheasant shooting. Many of the people, (yes women shoot too) waiting for birds to be driven over them are not farmers on a day off. They are affluent city workers often flying in from Europe, the middle east and the US. A day’s shooting can cost thousands of pounds but this money is fed back into the
Open s 1st Oct - 1 Feb
20
MIKE RAE
The pheasant’s first line of defence is to squat down or run into thick cover.
season Lifestyle MAG
21
Open season OUT & ABOUT WITH MIKE RAE
Scottish economy: for example, the tweed industry, local tailors, catering and boot shops. That high, fast pheasant that so excites the guns on shoot days does not get there by chance, it is the result of many months of skilled hard work. Nearly all the pheasants seen in the autumn countryside were released in the late summer. These birds are captive; bred by specialist producers, and millions of game birds are released in the UK every year. Young pheasants are bought in and looked after in large wire enclosures. As they grow they are released by the gamekeeper who stops them from straying by feeding them and planting tall crops where they can find food and shelter. Pheasants need woodland too - as they like to sleep in trees. A good, well-run shooting estate has lots of woodland and hedges (pheasants do not like bare, open fields) and can greatly benefit wildlife. An average arable farm has about 95% land used for growing crops, this land is of little or no value to wildlife. A well-run shooting farm should
have at the very least 10% of it’s land used for cover crops; woodland/scrubland and thick hedges. All these areas are of value to wildlife. Also, surviving birds will be fed from January to late spring. This feeding benefits wild birds. A shoot day is a well-planned campaign. The gamekeeper will have a number of drives, he knows the pheasants will be in the woods and cover crops. As many as 30 beaters walk through the woods and crops forcing the birds to fly towards the line of guns. Ideally the pheasants are made to fly over a high hedge and band of trees and become highflying pheasants. Most commercial shoots will have about 8 guns on a shoot day. A good shoot will also have cover and woodland that feeds and shelters game and wildlife. Running a shoot cheaply is unethical. Releasing young pheasants onto open farmland with no cover and not feeding them year round so they starve and become easy food for predators gives what can be an environmentally beneficial rural industry a bad name. © Michael Rae September 2017
Grouse shooting Up on the moor, the ‘guns’ – normally 8-10 – will each go to their respective butt. Butts are permanent hides, usually made of stone and peat half dug into the moor. Beaters and keepers with dogs will have started walking towards the butts from up to two miles away, flushing or ‘driving’ the birds in front of them towards the ‘guns’. When the beaters get within gunshot a horn is blown to warn guns not to shoot in front. Dogs will pick up shot birds. 22
n
Driven pheasants These are fairly formal affairs when ‘guns’ tend to dress smartly. Shoots take place over countryside, woods and managed fields. Ten or more beaters and keepers with dogs walk in line to flush out game and ‘drive’ the birds towards a line of 6-10 ‘guns’ standing 50-60m apart. There may be four ‘drives’ before lunch and two afterwards. Dogs handled by ‘pickers up’ retrieve dead or wounded birds that fall behind the line of guns. The most common driven shooting is for pheasants with bags from 50-400. Each gun will be given a choice of between two and four head of game to take home. The rest will be sold to a game dealer. A high proportion of processed British game is exported.
Shooting has its critics in the world but, a well-run shoot should continue to feed surviving birds from January to the early summer
Lifestyle MAG
23
RIDE THE NORTH IT'S NOT A RACE...
MUCH LAUGHTER, MANY SMILES AND 174 MILES... summed up my Ride the North 2017 experience. by Adam Thomas Ride the North is a cycling challenge set in the beautiful setting of the North and North East of Scotland.
R
ide The North (RTN) is designed for everyone... It's not a sportive nor a charity event and definitely NOT a race... It’s a 174-mile challenge ride which celebrates the love of cycling and scenery in this part of Scotland. From the start line in the spectacular surroundings of Castle Fraser, the 80 or 95 mile route on day one wound northwards through Inverurie, Rothienorman, Rothiemay, Clochan and Garmouth to its final destination in either
it's not a sportive... and definitely not a race... 24
Elgin (80 miles) or Forres (95 mile route for the more energetic cyclists), taking in all the beautiful scenery along the way. Day two began in Elgin or Forres depending on your exertions on day one. For those expecting a nice leisurely start, there was a little ‘sting’ in the tail, courtesy of Califer Hill on the outskirts of Forres, this
© James Robertson
LAUGHTER, SMILES & 174 MILES...
certainly warmed up the legs for the remaining 75 miles... Dallas beckoned for a quick coffee stop and then it was onwards to Edinvillie, a mere 15 miles away for lunch. As everyone relaxed in the late summer sunshine, one name kept being repeated over and over again... ‘Suie’... What was it that made experienced and amateur cyclists alike, grimace at its mere mention? Suitably refreshed, the route then travelled down
Lifestyle MAG
through Dufftown and on to Rhynie. By now, ‘Suie’ was only being mentioned in hushed tones, given a reverence through fear rather than respect I began to suspect. Seven miles later I found out exactly what the “Suie’ was... a ‘challenging’, twisting, one mile, 12% gradient (cycling jargon) hill climb... your legs will scream but the sense of satisfaction in reaching the summit is immense!!! From the ‘Suie Summit’ it was downhill and on to Keig 25
RIDE THE NORTH IT'S NOT A RACE... for a final ‘water stop’ and then on to the finish line at Castle Fraser, where Neil Innes and his brilliant RTN team were waiting to welcome everybody home. Focussing solely on the cycling element, RTN overlooks one of the most important aspects of the whole event (in my opinion)... THE FOOD STOPS!!! Magnificent doesn’t even come close. From Rothienorman to Rothiemay and Clochan on Day 1 through to Dallas, Edinvillie, Rhynie and Keig on Day 2 - the scale of refreshments on offer was simply staggering, the ‘mountain of sandwiches’ at Edinvillie had to be seen to be believed... RTN was, quite simply, everything I had hoped it would be... and more. Huge congratulations to the whole RTN team for the superb event organisation (even the ‘Suie’!!!), all the marshalls and the fantastic volunteers at the wonderful refreshment stops.
Now... where do I sign up for 2018? For more information on Ride the North www.ride-the-north.co.uk
Photography ©James Robertson
everything I had hoped it would be... and more!!! 26
Moray's own Walkers Shortbread is the main sponsor of Ride the North.
RTN is designed for everyone... Lifestyle MAG
27
MOTORING
Electric C R e v o l u ‘ we have the best rapid charging network in Europe
28
Car
lution Lifestyle MAG
A
recent news item introduced a bold new plan for the motoring world. Due to the effects of emissions and pollution and the impact that poor air quality is having on people’s health, the Scottish government has pledged to phase out new petrol and diesel cars and vans across Scotland by 2032, eight years ahead of the UK Government target. Nicola Sturgeon outlined plans to “massively expand” charging points and set up pilot projects to encourage uptake of electric vehicles. The SNP leader also said there were plans to make the A9 Scotland’s first fully electric-enabled road and that an innovation fund would be set up to encourage climatechange solutions, such as charging vehicles in areas with a high concentration of tenements.
29
MOTORING ELECTRIC CAR REVOLUTION The parliamentary under-secretary at the Department for Transport, Jesse Norman, confirmed the Government’s plans. “The Government has a manifesto commitment for almost all cars and vans on our roads to be zero emission by 2050. We believe this would necessitate all new cars and vans being zero emission vehicles by 2040,” Mr Norman said in a written answer to the Commons. Hands up all those who are aware that electric cars were around in the 1880s. Me neither. The first practical electric car was built in London in 1884 by a Thomas Parker, using his own specially designed high-capacity rechargeable batteries. It didn’t take long for the Germans to follow suit, with the Flocken Elektrowagen, designed by inventor Andreas Flocken in 1888. Electric cars were prominent in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries and provided a level of comfort and ease of operation that could not be achieved by the petrol cars of the time. However, the advances in the design and performance of the internal combustion engine in the first decade of the 20th Century, together with a reduction in refuelling times and a greater range, resulted in the electric car taking something of a back seat. The electric starter motor was introduced in 1912 and replaced the other methods of starting vehicles; in one fell swoop the electric car was history. From then until the early 1990s the internal combustion engine was king but the world was slowly realising that more fuel efficient vehicles with lower emissions were needed. Natural resources were due to dwindle and ultimately run out and the only way to realise the ultimate goal of zero emissions was to return, full circle, to the electric car.
‘
30
This push for zero emissions started with the California Air Resources Board. Gradually the major vehicle manufacturers jumped on board: Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Nissan and Toyota started producing electric cars in the United States but they were eventually withdrawn from the U.S. Market. Things remained static until 2004 when electric car development started up again and this time more and more manufacturers, including Mercedes, BMW, Volkswagen and Renault, joined in. An electric car can be fuelled from as little as 2p per mile, which is much cheaper than the 10-12p per mile for a petrol or diesel car. Maintenance is minimal as fewer parts and fluids need to be replaced. Servicing might consist of rotating or replacing the tyres and filling the screen wash. You can recharge at home, taking advantage of cheaper overnight tariffs but even if the unit cost of the electricity is relatively high, the overall running cost is far less than a conventional petrol or diesel engine’s cost. With over 11,000 publicly accessible charge points across the UK, we have the best rapid charging network in Europe. 96% of motorway services have these charge points and an
The Scottish Government to encourage climate change conditions Plans for The A9 Scotland’s first fully electric-enabled road
‘
‘
The Government offers £500 off the cost of a home charger
electric car can be recharged to 80% in 30 minutes. All charge points and charging cables are rigorously tested and are safe to use even in the pouring rain. The costs for using public charge points varies by provider, just as it does with petrol stations, and the government currently offers a grant of £500 off of the cost of a home charger. All the evidence to date shows that electric car batteries last a long time, out-performing the endurance of many petrol or diesel engines; some electric cars have done over 150,000 miles without noticeable degradation in battery life. There are many advantages that electric cars have over petrol and diesel cars and, with natural resources due to ultimately run out, the way forward is clear. As with the internal combustion engine, which has undergone many improvements and refinements, so will all the component parts of the electric car. That day cannot be that far away.
Lifestyle MAG
31
RURAL EDUCATION
Down on the farm Ringlink’s successful internship programme provides young people with rural skills and training, making them ready for employment in landbased mentor businesses.
F
ollowing up on the article in the August issue of Lifestyle, Gail Robertson at the Laurencekirk Office of Ringlink suggested we visit two very different farms to meet both the mentors and their interns. The two farms we visited were completely different. Located in a densely forested area south of Forres, the Altyre Estate is steeped in history and has both arable and livestock, as well as driven pheasant shooting; the other farm, Highland Eggs at Lower Mill of Tynet, produces organic and free range eggs. It also has cattle and sheep grazing its rolling countryside. We met Allan Michie, a first-time mentor and farm manager at Altyre, who mentors 16 year old Murray Reid. It was obvious that the two of them had struck up a very good working relationship. They are an inventive twosome, turning a standard motorbike into a revolutionary seed 32
Murray at Altyre with Allan Michie and Nicholas with Gordon Whiteford at Highland Eggs
spreader, customised to suit the application! Beneath the humour it was very apparent that both mentor and pupil take things very seriously; a farm can be a dangerous place with heavy machinery always on the move and one slip of concentration could result in serious injury. Murray is from a farming background so is no stranger to farm life, but he now has new responsibilities which will increase from day to day as Allan entrusts more and more to his young charge. From Altyre it was on to Highland Eggs. Owner Gordon Whiteford is mentor to 17 year old Nicholas Davidson who has no background in farming. Nicholas does not live close to the farm and has to travel by bus from Portsoy every day to start work at 7am. He is a quiet, respectful young man but is just as committed to his placement as Murray is. He, too, takes his work very seriously and is willing to turn his hand to any jobs that need doing. Although the majority of Nicholas’ duties include the welfare of the hens, egg collecting and grading, he also works with the cattle and the sheep when required. Both Allan and Gordon are keen for young people to be encouraged to enter farming, even if they do not have a farming background. Two very different environments but with the same commitment to their farms, their workforce and the future. It is time well invested.
FERGUS EWING MSP
The feminine touch Women have always been at the heart of the rural economy but we must do more to ensure agriculture in Scotland is able to draw from the widest possible talent pool, regardless of an individual’s gender. At a time when farming is crying out for new entrants, we need to attract more women into agriculture and encourage more to stay in rural communities. So working to create a sustainable and productive environment in which people can live and work is a key focus of mine this year. That is why we launched a taskforce to look in-depth at realising the potential of women in agriculture.
Cabinet Secretary for the Rural Economy and Connectivity
I attended the first meeting earlier this month, which will consider issues such as better succession planning and better access to training and progression within the industry but, crucially, it will work with the sector to consider how this can be achieved. Likewise, it was a pleasure to address an audience of land managers and farmers at the Lochter Centre on the topic of funding and rural Scotland. I highlighted our plan to stabilise the CAP payment system and heard again the plea for clarity on future funding – a plea I have made myself on numerous occasions to my UK counterparts. We need to
R
S
make sure people from other EU countries continue to be welcome and made welcome here. And we need access to the European market that is so important for our food drink and many other exports” Fergus Ewing
Rely on Ringlink Services... L
Ringlink Services your expert in training solutionsLtd
Tel: 01561 376000 email: laurencekirk@ringlinkservices.co.uk www.ringlinkservices.co.uk
For all your Training and Assessment Requirements
Delivering Quality Training and Assessments Throughout the Country Sprayer Operator Course
Delivering Quality Training and Assessments Throughout the Country
Sprayer Operator Course
• Fully Accredited Training • Training Delivered on Site
10 NRoSO Points
• ILA Funding Available • Quality Assurance Approved
Are you taking the Pesticides? 01-Dec-08
Coupar Angus
19-Jan-09
Inverness
09-Feb-09
Coupar Angus
16-Feb-09
Thainston
03-Dec-08
• Lantra Training
Kirkintilloch
Other Courses Include
• City & Guilds NPTC Assessments Chainsaw •
• Countrywide Delivery
• • • • • • • •
We have been running half day sprayer Operator courses for a number of years. This year the course includes • Stores & Storage Transport • • Sprayer Sprayer Problems • Buffers • LERAPSOperator • Product Revocation Course • Footpaths We have numerous courses running throughout the country, please refer to the calendar for suitable dates and venues. Please call for additional dates as the list only represents a selection. 24/11/2008 Laurencekirk 26/11/2008 Inverurie 26/11/2008 Banchory 27/11/2008 Falkirk 01/12/2008 Munlochy AreRothbury you taking 02/12/2008 02/12/2008 Keith 01-Dec-08 02/12/2008 Thurso 03-Dec-08 08/12/2008 Cupar 08/12/200819-Jan-09 Annan 08/12/200809-Feb-09 Perth 09/12/2008 Pathhead 15/12/200816-Feb-09 Ellon
Sprayer Operator Course
10 NRoSO Points the Pesticides? Coupar Angus Kirkintilloch Inverness Coupar Angus Thainston
Other Courses Include
Arboriculture First Aid Manual Handling Tractor Driving Trailer Towing Excavator Forklift Rat & Mouse Control
• • • • • • • • •
Call Ringlink Services on 01561 376000
Providing Training SoluTionS acroSS The counTry
NPTC AssessmeNTs We deliver the full suite of NPTC Certificates of Competence across the country. Give us a call for details.
FIRST AID TRAINING Appointed Person 3 Day First Aid at Work 2 Day Refresher Training Courses running in: Aberdeen Forfar Coupar Angus We can also offer this at your own premises for a maximum of 12 people per course.
Laurencekirk Inverurie Banchory Falkirk Munlochy Rothbury Keith Thurso Cupar Annan Perth Pathhead Ellon
Call Mearns & Angus Services 01561 376000 www.mearnsandangus.com
PROVIDING TRAINING SOLUTIONS ACROSS THE COUNTRY SLUG PELLET UPDATE Upgrade your PA1 and PA2 to a PA4S by attending this half day seminar.
24/11/2008 26/11/2008 26/11/2008 27/11/2008 01/12/2008 02/12/2008 02/12/2008 02/12/2008 08/12/2008 08/12/2008 08/12/2008 09/12/2008 15/12/2008
Chainsaw Arboriculture First Aid Manual Handling Tractor Driving Trailer Towing Excavator Forklift Rat & Mouse Control
Call Mearns & Angus Services 01561 376000 www.mearnsandangus.com
Lifestyle MAG
We have been running half day sprayer Operator courses for a number of years. This year the course includes • Stores & Storage Transport • • Sprayer Problems • Buffers • LERAPS • Product Revocation • Footpaths We have numerous courses running throughout the country, please refer to the calendar for suitable dates and venues. Please call for additional dates as the list only represents a selection.
FOOD HyGIENE Food Hygiene courses to meet quality assurance running at a venue near you.
33
INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIqUES Do you need to deliver training? Ensure that you have the correct skills to deliver training effectively. The next course starts on the 10th May 2010 in Perth. DRIvER CPC Don’t miss out on your periodic training. You must gain 35 hours of Periodic Training before September 2014. Aberdeen Coupar Angus
AEG Logo usage
FOLLOW US AT OAKWOOD COOKERY
“AEG perfeckt logo.eps” For all usage with a total width of more than 40mm
www.aeg.co.uk >40mm
“AEG perfeckt logo – small usage.eps” For all usage with a total width of less than 40mm
TEL: 01343 541285 OAKWOOD COOKERY SCHOOL THE OAKWOOD FORRES ROAD ELGIN IV30 8UN
Email: info@oakwoodcookery.co.uk www.oakwoodcookeryschool.co.uk
<40mm
AEG perfeckt logo.eps” or all usage with a total width f more than 40mm
AEG perfeckt logo – small usage.eps” or all usage with a total width f less than 40mm
Riverside Kitchens (Elgin Division) . The Oakwood . 45 Forres Road . Elgin . IV30 8UN Tel : 01343 552202 . Fax : 01343 550101 Riverside Kitchens (Glasgow Division) . 72 Ingram Street . Glasgow . G1 1EX Tel : 0141 5524514 . Fax : 0141 5532605
www.riversidekitchens.co.uk
DRUMMER B DRUMMING RITIMO UK
From the north east of Brazil to the north east of Scotland – one man’s musical journey, culminating in the creation of a state of the art studio where all are welcome, irrespective of age or ability.
Ritimo From the Portuguese ritmo, meaning rhythm
36
R
ossini Cavalcante and his twin brother Rossano grew up with music. Born in Fortaleza, Brazil, the rhythms of the country are part of their heritage and they run deep in their veins. From the age of four, they would play drums and percussion together. They mastered many different Brazilian percussion instruments and took part in carnivals and samba schools, challenging each other to play ever faster and more complex rhythms. You would imagine that such talent would be channelled into a career in music but Rossini studied accountancy at university. But he decided to follow his dream and make a career in music. Coincidentally, his twin brother followed the same route, although they now play music thousands of miles apart. Rossini’s path to Scotland has been somewhat of a circuitous one. He played and taught around his home town of Fortaleza and then spent some years in the south of Brazil before leaving to live and work in Europe. He has played gigs and recorded with various artists in Barcelona, Paris and Nice whilst being mostly based in Lisbon. His time in Europe allowed him to gain valuable experience in all different kinds of music ranging from Spanish Flamenco to African. It was while Rossini was working as the resident drummer in the casino in Estoril that he met his wife, Deirdre, and came to Scotland in 2000 to be with her. They married in 2001 and
R BOY
together they converted their large attic into a very well equipped drum studio. His company, Ritimo (named after the Portuguese ritmo = rhythm) has successfully run percussion workshops across Moray for nursery, primary and secondary schools; senior citizens’ groups, teachers’ Health and Wellbeing days; music teachers’ in-service training; Moray Youth Justice and children’s parties. It has been proven that the power of rhythm can have far-reaching beneficial effects; drumming has therapeutic value, providing the emotional and physical benefits commonly known as “drummer’s high”, an endorphin rush that can only be stimulated by playing music. Drumming can increase people’s pain thresholds and can increase positive emotions. The power of rhythm can move crowds and can also bring Alzheimer’s patients back into the present moment. Rossini’s wife Deirdre, a qualified educational psychologist, is an invaluable part of his business. Educational psychologists work within local authorities and also work in partnership with families and other professionals to help children and young people to achieve their full potential. Deirdre’s training in psychology and knowledge of child development means that she can advise on general aspects of various additional support needs (ASNs) so that Rossini has a greater understanding of what would work best for each student, according to their needs. Children who have ASD, ADHD or dyslexia can all be helped to overcome these conditions: their co-ordination improves and their confidence grows, overcoming their initial shyness and self-consciousness. At his Ritimo UK studio Rossini caters for all ages from
the age of 4 years upwards and has numerous successes to his name: almost all of his students have passed their exams with merit or distinction. Ritimo UK follows the Rock School syllabus and enters students for Grade exams if they are keen to do so and this gains them officially recognised qualifications. His students are also given the opportunity to perform in front of an audience and several of his students have made the final Top 40 Young Drummer of the Year, a national competition that attracts over 600 entries; one student actually made it through to the finals, the top ten. Several students have gone on from Rossini’s studio to study music at Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Birmingham universities. In Rossini’s customised Aberlour loft studio there are two very well-equipped full size drum kits as well as a complete child size drum kit. In addition there is a range of Congas and a variety of Latin percussion. After 14 years of experience and of watching his pupils go from complete beginners to qualified competent
Drumming has therapeutic value, providing emotional and physical benefits... ...it can increase people’s pain thresholds and their positive emotions Lifestyle MAG
37
DRUMMING RITIMO UK drummers and percussionists, Rossini felt that it was time to change direction slightly and he has invested in a new studio. Two doors down on the same street in Aberlour is his brand new, purpose-built state of the art studio. The new studio has been soundproofed to the highest specification and contains the very best Roland TD-50 electronic drum kits. Two complete full size drum kits dominate the room; one for the teacher and the other for the pupil. It is a beautifully equipped and well-designed studio and has disability access as well. Parking is no problem and the bus service to and from Elgin stops right outside. Rossini offers tuition on a one-to-one basis where each programme is age appropriate, and master classes in Brazilian rhythm for experienced drummers. He is available for corporate team-building events and live gigs. In addition, he also sets up and tunes acoustic drum kits and reconditions drum kits as well, thus enabling students to own at a sensible price. For the last twelve years he has taught at Gordonstoun school. However,
Rossini Cavalcante
The Old Manse 54 High Street Aberlour . AB38 9QA Tel. +44 (0) 1340 871490 Mob. +44 (0) 7963 273392
www.ritimo.co.uk
Visit our youtube channel www.youtube.com/ritimouk
Almost all of Rossini’s pupils pass their exams with merit or distinction don’t imagine that drumming is only for the young: retired people can take advantage of his flexible teaching times. If you are at a loss as to what to give a friend or relative, try a present with a difference and give them a gift voucher – who knows but that you might just awaken some hidden talent and open up new avenues! Rossini is very kindly offering an hour’s tuition at his studio for one lucky person – see our competitions page for full details. Tel 01340 871490 or 07963 273393 ritimouk@googlemail.com www.ritimo.co.uk
Room to relax HEALTH & WELLBEING
Welcome to our haven of relaxation and personal pampering...
Our professional and confidential approach ensures that your time at ‘Room to Relax’ will be both relaxing and therapeutic. Rachel of Symply Therapies and June of Harmony Therapies offer a wide range of complementary therapies which will enhance your mental and physical wellbeing. l
l
Indian head massage with Rachel – with added aromatic oils of your choice, treats the upper body, head and face and brings total relaxation. Head to toe relaxation by Rachel with reflexology and Thai foot massage.
Lifestyle MAG
Make positive changes and feel good l
June demonstrating the Bowen Technique which consists of gentle rolling moves over muscles and tendons to release tension, quickly and effectively easing pain. The client wears light clothing.
l
Share your worries with June in a private and calming room. Let go of anxieties and negative behaviours safely with hypnotherapy. 145 Mid Street, Keith June 07876 407203 Rachel 07411 438416 39
MHAFF Half Page Spotlight 8 Sep.pdf
1
07/09/2017
19:14
MORAY FEELGOOD FESTIVAL OCTOBER 2017
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival, the Moray Feelgood Festival is a festival for all, connecting people to mental health and wellbeing. Taking place in venues across Moray throughout October, the festival includes art, crafts, drama, dance, ďŹ lm, music, literary and family-friendly events. Book online now at: moraywellbeinghub.org.uk
HEALTH & WELLBEING WITH PETRA
Head for the The tattie holidays are coming and you’re looking for stuff to do with the kids which doesn’t cost the earth. Choose something that’s active, healthy and completely free!
hills...
H
illwalking is the perfect activity for the whole family to enjoy together. Walk at a leisurely pace to give anyone with wee legs a chance to keep up. This means you’ll be travelling at an ideal speed for the adults to chat and have some quality time together. And though you’re not going to be sweating buckets, you may be surprised with the steady cardio workout you get. Your body will feel other benefits too. Ascending works and builds your quads, calves and bum, and stretches your hamstrings. Descending strengthens the muscles around your knees (which is why it can feel hard on them) and is great for improving core strength and balance as you pick your way around any obstacles in your path. At this time of year we tend to start spending more time indoors, so family excursions like this remind us to stay active, get out in the fresh air and catch some vitamin D. TOP TIPS TO HAPPY HIKING l
l
l
Take water and a small picnic or at least a snack to munch while enjoying the view from the top. And jelly babies or raisins are a good idea too, should anyone start to flag and need a sugar boost. Plan ahead, start early and make sure you research your route enough to know how long it should take. Check the weather and prepare accordingly. Even when it looks clear, this is Scotland so expect more than one season in a day! It’ll be colder and windier at the top. An extra layer, windproof jacket and hat are all wise items to have with you.
Lifestyle MAG
WHERE TO GO Five good hillwalks within or a short hop from Moray. l Knock Hill in Grange near Keith. Just under 3 miles, through meandering tracks on lowland terrain, rising to off-path heather hill. l Bin of Cullen – 3½-mile linear walk through forestry, finishing on a moor-topped hill with views to the coast l Ben Rinnes – a few miles outside Dufftown, this Corbett grade hill is a bracing, almost 5-mile walk up snaking and steep scree paths with fantastic views across Aberdeenshire, Moray and across the firth to Sutherland. l Ben Aigan – 5-mile walk, situated between Maggieknockater and Mulben. Ascend on cycle trails through forestry, to reach its heathery summit and views of the Cairngorms. Lochnagar – Bag a Munro! A challenging 12-mile walk on mixed paths and boulder fields with view across stunning mountain scenery long before you reach the summit. Seven hours of brisk walking but plan well and leave longer. At the Ballater edge of the Cairngorms, this is a bit of a trip, but well worth the effort. Petra Pennington Maps plus helpful stageby-stage directions for all these walks, can be found on www. walkhighlands. co.uk
l
41
HEALTH & WELLBEING
All together now...
T
he Moray Wellbeing Hub, a social enterprise run by those with their own experiences of crisis and challenge in mental health, is coordinating the Moray Feelgood Festival, offering a range of exciting activities open to everyone. Working with a range of local partners in arts and wellbeing, the Festival will showcase over 60 events, many free and quite a number of family friendly ones over October half term. Highlights of the festival include workshops to reclaim rags to make paper; drumming sessions; films with a mental health focus; live music from ‘Big Fat Electric’ at the
BISHOPMILL P H A R M A C Y
INDEPENDENT AID SUPPLIERS AGENTS FOR BETTERLIFE PATTERSON MEDICAL AND WAYS & MEANS
NATURAL SKIN CARE
HELPING YOU TO ACHIEVE AN INDEPENDENT LIFE
HOME BREW Also Stockists for 20 North St, Bishopmill, Elgin IV30 4EF 01343 547374 / 547393 • bishopmillpharmacy.co.uk
Drouthy Cobbler; art movement, dance movement and ecotherapy taster sessions; dance walking on Findhorn beach; eco-therapy and golfing to live music! The Moray Feelgood Festival - 7th-28th October www.moraywellbeinghub.org.uk or Facebook at Moray Feelgood Festival 2017
BISHOPMILL P H A R M A C Y
SAVE YOUR MEMORIES!
Holiday a dim and distant memory?
Come along to Bishopmill Pharmacy’s new digital photolab for all your photographic needs.
DIGITAL PICTURES AVAILABLE INSTANTLY!! Check out the Kodak Moments app
a moment
that can last forever...
BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN FOR 2018 - LIMITED DATES LEFT FOR 2017
07920 093344
robbie@islabrigimages.co.uk www.islabrigimages.co.uk
FOOD GHILLIE BASAN
The original S From the foot of the Ngong Hills in southern Kenya to the Cairngorms in the Highlands of Scotland by way of schooling in Scotland, Edinburgh University, Italy, Turkey and the middle east, south east Asia and the United States - nobody could say that Ghillie Basan has led a boring life.
G
hillie Basan was brought up in Kenya where her father was professor of medicine at the Kenyatta Hospital and Nairobi University and, from a young age, was captivated by the essence of life in Africa â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the heat, the vast expanse of land and sky and the culture; but possibly most of all by the food, rich in spices and unusual combinations of exotic ingredients. During her time overseas Ghillie has absorbed all that the different cultures have to offer and this knowledge has
44
All spices should be bought in seed, root, berry, bark or nut form and then should be ground as and when the need arises...
Spice Girl Mezze on the Move Personal catering with a difference
been condensed into her cookery books and her cookery workshops. Spices play an important part in middle eastern cooking and they not only flavour the food but they also have valuable healing and digestive qualities. To maximise their qualities, all spices should be bought in seed, root, berry, bark or nut form and then should be ground as and when the need arises. This way you get the natural oils for maximum flavour and health benefits. From her renovated croft 1,600 feet up in the Cairngorms and eight miles from the nearest village, Ghillie runs cookery workshops and also offers her Mezze on the Move. This is personal catering with a difference. It does not matter whether you are planning a simple picnic, a special
Lifestyle MAG
occasion meal in a holiday cottage, lunch in a fishing hut or a party at home, Ghillie will plan your event down to the last meticulous detail - you tell her what you want and she will do the rest. Remote hills and glens present no problem when it comes to delivering your gastronomic delights; Mezze on the Move will deliver over hills, rough Highland tracks and over rivers and roads to the remotest postcodes. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all part of the fun. 45
FOOD GHILLIE BASAN
There is a distinct possibility that some of the ingredients used in her food will have come straight from her own garden. In the past, supermarkets did not stock a large proportion of the ingredients used in middle eastern and African cooking and this lack forced Ghillie to grow her own, to forage and also to preserve in the summer months. Wild garlic, sweet cicely and rosebay willow herb: edible roots and bulbs, funghi and berries: rabbit, hare, pheasant, deer and locally sourced salmon – they all feature in Ghillie’s recipes. Quite possibly you could not find a better representative of how to live off the land than Ghillie. She never rests on her laurels. One of her latest projects is to marry spirits and spices, matching spices with different whiskies. She also makes fruit gins, using wild rowan berries, blackcurrants and gooseberries from her garden and two different vodkas - one flavoured with saffron and cinnamon, the other with apricot and rose. Ghillie’s world is as unique as she is. From her cottage she can walk out of the door and into a world that is the natural home to roe deer, hares, grouse, buzzards and golden eagles. To spend time with her will leave you with lasting memories
Mezze chez Moi Spend the evening with Ghillie enjoying mezze in her home. She offers informal dining for 6-8 people twice a month from April to October. Price of 12 mezze dishes (cold and hot/savoury and sweet): £50 per person for the evening and full service. www.ghilliebasan.com 46
You could not find a better representative of how to live off the land
Lifestyle MAG
47
MOCHA FRAPPE ............................ Ingredients 50ml Moray Mocha 1tsp instant coffee 1tsp sugar Ice 50ml evaporated milk 50ml spring water Method Mix instant coffee, sugar and spring water together with a few ice cubes in a cocktail shaker until a light foam - strain into a tall slim glass. Add ice along with evaporated milk then finish off with a double shot of Moray Mocha
www.elgin-gin.co.uk
New and Victorian Treats Visit ourTastes charming Now at of shop setin in Stock the heart The Spey Larder Whisky Country for Summer Dining
Tel: 01340 871 243
The Spey Larder 96-98 High St. Aberlour AB38 9QA info@speylarder.com
www.speylarder.com 48
• Scottish and Continental Fine Foods • Scottish and International Cheeses • Quality Hams and Antipasti • Fine Wines, Malt Whiskies and Beers • Picnic Lunches and Gourmet Sandwiches • Cookery Books, Quality Gifts and Linens • Gift Hampers available all year
EATING OUT
Christmas is coming... Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the time of year when one person per office is assigned the task of organising and co-ordinating the office party. It can be a daunting task but across the north east there are hotels and restaurants that are gearing up to shouldering the burden for you, leaving you stress-free.
B
ring a party to a party - what a brilliant idea! Choose your venue, give them a call, tell them how many are coming and what you want - and then sit back and relax. If this is a bit too formal for you, how about meeting after work with your colleagues at a bar of your choice and have a relaxing cocktail. A perfect opportunity to indulge in your Secret Santa. From family pre-Christmas lunches, small intimate get-togethers, themed discos, fireworks with hot toddies, right the way
Lifestyle MAG
49
EATING OUT CHRISTMAS IS COMING... How about meeting after work at a bar of your choice and have a relaxing cocktail
through to large office parties and the full-on Hogmanay celebrations, there are venues a-plenty ready to play host. Don’t forget the Christmas markets, a great way of getting unusual and exclusive presents for special people. There are many communities that hold their own markets so it is best to check their Facebook pages for dates and times. And, talking of communities, each and every village in the area will have their Christmas lights switchon, usually accompanied by late night shopping with many shops providing spiced hot wine and mince pies. All you need is snow, gently falling from an inky-black sky, turning everything quite magical. It is a wonderful time of the year, a time for family and friends, creating longlasting memories.
The Bank Café & Restaurant
No. 2 The Square Huntly AB54 8AE (Only 10 mins walk from Huntly Train Station)
Autumn Opening Hours Café Open: Wed - Sun 11am - 3.30pm (Closed Every Mon & Tues) Lunch Served Noon - 2.30pm
Afternoon Teas Every Saturday & Sunday 2.30pm – 4.00pm (Pre-booking essential)
1 Course £10.99 2 Courses £12.95 3 Courses £14.95
Restaurant Open Every Friday & Saturday 6.00pm till late (last food order 8.30pm)
2 Courses £5.99 3 Courses £7.99 Served from December 1st to 24th
Christmas Lunch & Dinner served throughout December Reservations: 07955 710755 www.thebankhuntly.co.uk Find us on
Red Lion Hotel, 2-6 Tolbooth St Forres IV36 1PH 01309 672716
CASTLE HOTEL - HUNTLY, ABERDEENSHIRE, SCOTLAND -
your home from home in the heart of aberdeenshire
Come and join us for Christmas • Christmas Menu through December £26-50pp • Festive Afternoon Teas weekdays through December • Christmas Buffet Lunch Carvery Sunday 10th & 17th Dec • New Year Dinner & Dance with ‘Tipsy Laird’ £70pp Tel 01466 792696 - Fax 01466 792641 www.castlehotel.uk.com - info@castlehotel.uk.com
BAR CHRISTMAS CRACKERS
OUTSTANDING OFFERS IN OUR BAR THIS CHRISTMAS BITES AND BUBBLES £36 (per person - max of 40 guests)
Enjoy Prosecco for 2 hours along with Christmas nibbles of Brie bites with orange and cranberry dip, bloomer sandwiches and wraps, pigs in blankets and petit fours
BAR CHRISTMAS SUPPER £12 (per person - max of 40 guests) 3 course traditional Christmas dinner
!!! L
ANCE D D E
N
OR EW F
YEAR THIS
F
!! LOOR
Red Lentil and Vegetable Soup
with home baked bloomer bread
Traditional Roast Turkey
accompanied by festive trimmings of pork and sage stuffing, roast and boiled potatoes, root vegetables, pigs in blankets and a rich gravy or
Red Cabbage, Apple, Brie And Red Onion Roulade (V)
with baby boiled potatoes, red pepper jam and balsamic dressed leaves
Christmas Pudding
with Brandy Sauce
GIANT MARTINI, PROSECCO AND NIBBLES £99 (based on four sharing) Enjoy a sharing pornstar or mistletoe martini along with a magnum of prosecco with Christmas nibbles of Brie bites with orange and cranberry dip, bloomer sandwiches and wraps, pigs in blankets and petit fours £36 (per person) ICE WHITE PARTY NIGHTS
Our famous Ice White Parties 2017 are back and have the following availablity
SATURDAY 2ND £34pp (60 spaces) • FRIDAY 8TH £37pp (80 spaces) SATURDAY 9TH (full - waiting list available) • FRIDAY 15TH (full) • SATURDAY 16TH (full)
The
“Warm, comfortable, friendly and great food.”.
RoyalHotel
Join us for Christmas from 1st December onwards Three Course from £26.95 TM
Full menu available on our website
tel. 01343 542320
www.theroyalhotelelgin.co.uk | royalhotelelgin@btconnect.com Station Road, Elgin, IV30 1QW
& it’s what we do. • design studio • digital print department • 5 colour litho print department
mmsalmacltd. design&print 6 Tyock Industrial Estate Elgin . IV30 1XY Tel: 01343 551234
Unit F . Islabank Mills Keith . AB55 5DD Tel: 01542 886409
Email: info@mms-almac.co.uk . www.mms-almac.co.uk
”.
THE UGIE HOUSE HOTEL Christmas Party Night
Saturday 16th December 2017 7pm Dancing to CURRENT AFFAIR STARTERS Cullen Skink Salmon & prawn parcel Trio of Scottish puddings Duck spring rolls & plum sauce Roast fig, Parma ham, balsamic glaze & rocket salad MAIN COURSE Roast turkey with all the trimmings Oatmeal spiced rolled brisket & red wine jus Beetroot marinated salmon & beetroot salsa Mushroom stroganoff Mulled wine poached pear & walnut salad DESSERTS Auntie Jean’s sticky toffee pudding Christmas pudding & custard Spiced orange trifle Baileys’ parfait White chocolate & strawberry cheesecake
£35 per person
(pre-order is required)
tel: 01542 887671 email: ugiehouse@freeuk.com
AUTUMN BREAKS
WE TATTIE HOL Although there are those for whom the words ‘tattie holidays’ will be met with a blank stare, many of us will have memories, whether fond or otherwise, of the October fortnight that gave rise to this title.
E
very year round about the 7th of October (the midterm break) school children would help with the potato harvest. In some districts of Scotland children were an important source of labour for harvesting the crop as farmers could draw on their services. But by the 1870s teachers and their school boards were not happy with this arrangement; children went to the tatties instead of attending school.
54
Understandably, this was considered a serious problem by the Scotch Education Department (as it was known back then). Potato harvesting became a “standing grievance” or even an “evil”. This was more especially so when school grants were paid on attendance and large numbers of absent children did not help the school managers secure their grants for the year. All those concerned with schools - teachers, school managers and of course the Scotch Education Department – looked for a way to deal with this problem. As schools were required to have a certain number of openings, the period of the summer holiday could be shortened and the corresponding period given
Attempts to ban the holiday resulted in protests and authorities backing down...
OLIDAYS
...Today, the Scottish Tattie holiday break is a great time of year for families to escape while the rest of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children are at school.
in October to allow the children to assist with the tatties. So started the â&#x20AC;&#x153;tattie holidaysâ&#x20AC;? in some rural districts of Scotland. Tattie holidays were widely given during the time of the two world wars as it was important that the increased potato acreage was safely gathered. After 1946 the attitude towards children picking or gathering tatties changed and hardened, even though by this time the tattie holiday had become a well established feature of many communities. Attempts to ban the holiday in certain communities resulted in
Lifestyle MAG
55
AUTUMN BREAKS TATTIE HOLIDAYS
Back in the 1980s children as young as nine would earn around £9 a day... protests and authorities backing down. Advances in harvesting technology in the 1980s meant that there was less need for the tattie holidays to be given. But by then the educationalists started to consider that an autumn break in October was a good thing for the children, as it broke up the long period from the end of the summer holidays until Christmas. So the autumn holiday started right across Scotland and, because of the strength of the custom of the tattie holidays, the autumn break continued to be known as the tattie holidays, even though the children no longer came to the farms to undertake that work. For many children across Scotland the tattie holidays had become a rite of passage as it was their first wage and experience of paid work. The money was an important part of household wages and paid for essential day to day items and even contributed towards the cost of Christmas.
It was hard work and back in the 1980s children as young as nine would spend the day from 7.30am until 4.30pm, earning £9 per day. They would be picked up at a central point, jumping on to a flatbed trailer, pulled by a tractor. The exhausting work would see the children go from bending over to pick the potatoes to crawling on their hands and knees by the end of the day. Today, Health and Safety would take a very dim view of the proceedings but, at the time, the children insisted that they had fun, messing about with their friends. An added bonus would be the home made soup they received from the farmer’s wife and a couple of bags of tatties and some turnips to take home. The money would have seemed an impressive amount for primary school children of the time and they must have thought that they were playing an important part, not only for agriculture but for their families. Which, in a sense, they were.
October School’s out for two whole weeks...
56
EILEAN IARMAIN
Birlinn Restaurant
In an idyllic waterfront setting, the Birlinn Restaurant has stunning views of the hills and sea. Serving the best of local seafood and produce in a friendly atmosphere. Relax with a good Gaelic dram and enjoy the view. AA Rosette
hotel@eileaniarmain.co.uk
Pràban Bar
The perfect place to enjoy delicious bar meals, real ales, malt whiskies, log fires, local Eilean Iarmain venison and Skye shellfish.
Far am faigh thu cairdeas!
Outdoor waterfront seating, traditional live music and song! Memorable winter cèilidhs!
Sleat, THE ISLE OF SKYE, IV43 8QR
www.eileaniarmain.co.uk
01471 833 332
PRÀBAN
Toiseach an sgeulachd... The beginnig of the legend...
Real whisky as it used to be!
Visit The Gaelic Whiskies Shop at Eilean Iarmain to enjoy a free tasting of our award-winning range of premium whiskies and purchase a bottle to take home!
Hand crafted, small batch, Hebridean gin, distilled in a unique replica of an 18th century copper pot still, specially commissioned for Eilean Iarmain, on the Isle of Skye.
THE ORIGINAL UNCHILFILTERED WHISKY
Come in from the chill! @GaelicWhisky 01471 833 496
GaelicWhisky.com
Blas nas fheàrr air sgàth ’s na Gàidhlig air a’ bhileig. @GaelicGin THE ISLE OF SKYE, IV43 8QR
GaelicGin.com
sales@GaelicWhisky.com
S
AUTUMN BREAKS
K
YE
Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;er the sea to From its rugged and dramatic coastline to the magnificent Cuillin hills, Skye has it all...
S
Skye
teeped in history, the island of Skye has more than its fair share of prehistoric sights, romantic castles, abundant wildlife, picturesque villages and wonderful independent artisan shops. Apart from being perfect for a short, relaxing break it is also an excellent destination choice for weddings and honeymoons. Once the summer tourist season with its days of unending perfect light has wound down, the winter months can be equally captivating and often provide the most beautiful and alluring views. The dramatic dawns and dusks, the scent of log fires on the still night air and clear skies with a myriad of twinkling stars make for unforgettable memories. The island itself is its own best ambassador, but there is one gentleman whose life mission was to raise the profile of 58
Scotland in the world of international finance, commerce and industry. Although not a native of the island, Sir Iain Noble became one of its fiercest champions. Despite the fact that he was not a Gaelic speaker he became an enthusiastic learner of the language and in 1973 he founded Sabhal Mor Ostaig, a public higher education college with a sister campus at Bowmore on the isle of Islay and affiliation with the University of the Highlands and Islands. In 1976 he developed the Gaelic whiskies of Praban na Linne and the company continues as one of the few independent businesses in the Scottish whisky industry. Even though Skye is renowned for its whisky, the distillation of Gaelic gins is scheduled to begin shortly in a traditional bothan, with the names of the gins reflecting the heritage of
e
...magical island of mists and mystery Skye. Local legend has it that the flavour of spirits distilled on the island are greatly improved by having Gaelic on the label. Closely associated with Sir Iain Noble is the Hotel Eilean Iarmain. It is located in one of the most idyllic settings on the Isle of Skye, with panoramic views across the Sound of Sleat to the Scottish mainland. It is a very special place indeed. The freshest of local seafood and produce can be enjoyed in the restaurant and the finest whiskies can be savoured beside a roaring log fire in the cosy bar. Next door to the hotel, by the historic stone pier, is the Talla Dearg Gallery which features Highland and Hebridean landscapes and wildlife paintings by local and Scottish artists, the Floriadh boutique with a beautiful range of clothing and The Gaelic Whisky Shop.
Skye is not an island to let the grass grow under its feet. Torabhaig, Skye’s newest distillery, opened in June a few hundred yards away from Toravaig House and chose this hotel to host the celebration dinner. Toravaig, along with its sister hotels Duisdale and Skeabost, are owned and run by Anne and Ken Gunn. At Skeabost (from the Norse for ‘sheltered house’) not only do they have their own golf course but they can offer excellent sea trout and salmon fishing on the River Snizort. In addition, they also have a renovated old chapel which is perfect as a stunning wedding venue. Eilean a’ Cheo - once visited, never forgotten.
✁
PIN ME, KEEP ME
Glyn’s
UPHOLSTERY services
Glyn Minshull Proprietor
TEL. 07718 060006
• Commercial • Domestic
29 Tyock Industrial Estate Elgin IV30 1XYu Tel: 01343 545314
• Vehicle upholstery work undertaken
A
Purl 2 Together
hair STUDIO & beauty
193 Mid Street • Keith • Banffshire AB55 5BQ
DISCOUNT FOR PENSIONERS (every Tuesday)
START YOUR WINTER KNITS NOW
20-30%
Quality Knitting, Stitching, Craft Supplies
Tel: 01542 886883
24 Commerce Street, Elgin 07453 618220 / 01343 200090
Plant Automation & Maintenance Specialists • • • • •
Electrical Design & Installation Instrumentation & Calibration PLC & SCADA Control Panels Inspection & Testing
Contact: Alan on 01466 799 297 or 07767 657372 email: info@gatewaycontrols.co.uk www.gatewaycontrols.co.uk
✁
✁ SHADEY BIRDHOUSES Unique Handmade Items • Free Local Deliveries
Dave Dewhurst Wood Crafter ELGIN Moray T: 07976 873698 E: shadeydew@sky.com Shadey Birdhouses
Produced and Printed in Moray
to advertise call Rhona or Barbara on 01343 551234 Lifestyle MAG
61
WHAT’S ON
October 7-28 MORAY FEEL GOOD FESTIVAL 2017 Various Locations More than sixty events spread over 3 weeks in Moray. The first two events will be on the Feelgood Festival Launch day, Saturday 7th October in and around St Giles Church, Elgin. There will be a range of live music, but two of these groups also offer hands-on workshops on the same day. MUSIC The Penguins Tuxedo ‘The Penguins Tuxedo’ is a youth street samba band, from Nairn. Infectious beats on surdo drums, give a carnival feel to any event. Mixing traditional latino beats with more modern riffs, don’t be surprised if you think you might hear, “You Can’t Touch This” in the midst of their performance. Sets from 1-3pm, followed by a free, hands-on, session. Talking Rhythm Carol Scorer and ‘Talking Rhythm’ are from the Forres area. They will be playing African style drums and rhythms on launch day from 11am – 12noon. Community Drum Jam from 7- 9pm, again at St Giles Church. Dave Martin Forres musician and producer, Dave Martin, of Big Fat Electric Ceilidh 62
fame, will perform a solo set at The Drouthy Cobbler from 8.30-11pm on Thursday 12th October. Come equipped to dance to the infectious beats, and book your tickets early! www.moraywellbeinghub.org.uk or on Facebook search for Moray Feelgood Festival 2017
7 EDGAR ROAD EXTRAVAGANZA Elgin Town Hall, Trinity Place, Elgin A unique blend of music, trickery and laughter. VIP tables will be available to make the night a little more special. www.edgarroad.com/extrava
15 TATTIE FEST The Loft, East Grange Farm, Kinloss Family holiday fun day. www.eastgrange.co.uk or please call us on 01343 850111
18 STAR GAZING Bennachie Visitors Centre A star gazing evening hosted by members of the Aberdeen Astronomical Society - come along and enjoy some of the wonders of our night sky! Let’s hope for a clear sky, but in the event of poor weather there will be an indoor presentation on what you can see in the night sky in October. Booking essential.
...from Nairn to Inverurie, north to Lossiemouth and south to Grantown
Meet: at the Bennachie Visitor Centre Contact: the Garioch Ranger on 01467 681470, 07786 021781, garioch.ranger@aberdeenshire. gov.uk
21 LUCY SPRAGGAN The Loft, East Grange Farm, Kinloss English singer who auditioned for the X Factor in 2012. Check The Loft website and Facebook page for details. www.eastgrange.co.uk or please call us on 01343 850111
21 HOTEL CALIFORNIA LIVE Elgin Town Hall 19.30 Hotel California return to Elgin by popular demand! 100 minutes of Eagles music played by Hotel California, Scotland’s only Eagles tribute act. Hotel California is now a six piece line up and will perform a new set that showcases the vocal and instrumental skills of the band.
21 FIREWORKS AGAINST CANCER SPECTACULAR New Deer Showground Fireworks and lighting spectacular in aid of UCAN. For further information : 07590 848911 or info@ fireworksagainstcancer.org
WIN A FAMILY TICKET! TO THE PREVIEW
COMING SOON...
Colours of Cluny Lighting up Cluny Hill in Forres November 8th - 19th for more information and tickets: coloursofcluny.com or 0844 8889991 The highly-acclaimed sound and light show in Forres, is back for its second year – with an event to wow visitors and benefit the local economy. Lifestyle is giving away a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) for the exclusive invitation-only preview night on November 8. To enter answer the following question: Colours of Cluny is held in which beautiful town in Moray? Now turn to page 65 for more details...
27-28
Competition winners...
‘ALLO ‘ALLO Aberdeen Arts Centre Local amdram society See Thru Productions tread the boards. See page 64 and win tickets!
28 SCOUTING FOR GIRLS 10TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR The Loft, East Grange Farm, Kinloss Best of friends Roy, Greg and Pete toiled for years... Their band was signed by Epic in 2007. Three sparkling, life-affirming, top 10 albums later, Scouting For Girls has made the journey from playing pubs in Harrow to headlining Wembley. This is the tale of three friends who followed their dream and seduced a nation on the way. Tickets going fast!!! www.beyondhighlands.com or Sound and Vision music shop (Elgin)
Lifestyle MAG
Don’t forget - it’s Halloween! From the smallest village to the largest city, be mindful of the hordes of children of all ages dressed up to the nines, knocking on doors demanding ‘trick or treat’. Ignore them at your peril!
28 DARK DUFFUS Duffus Estate Themed Halloween activities to keep the little ones busy. For 2-10year olds Run by Earthtime. Meet at Duffus Village Hall. www.earthtime.co.uk Do you have an event for November’s edition? Email diary@mms-publishing.scot and we will include it next time.
Congratulations to all of our August winners. We have received hundreds of responses and have been over-whelmed by your letters and emails... but keep ‘em coming - who knows, your name might be on the list next month. Archery for six Mrs Lena Morrison, Cairnie, Huntly Computer health check Lynn Billimore, Inverurie Seven Stills Whisky and cheese Mrs Sheila Low, Dufftown The Bank lunch Mrs June Leese, Forres Distilled tickets Sue Brodie, Aberlour Speyside Cooperage Nicola Hire, Longmorn Mrs Sylvia Findlay, Duffus
63
WHAT’S ON ‘ALLO ’ALLO
‘Vee vill sae zis only v
o l l a o l l a The distance from the leafy environs of rural Glass to the bustling oil capital of Aberdeen is 46 miles and an hour and fifteen minutes by road, but for one amateur dramatic society it is a huge leap forward and presents a wonderful opportunity
S
ee Thru’ Productions was created in 2012 by a group of enthusiastic amateurs, all resident in the Glass area. The call went out for interested people to get in touch and the response was overwhelming. They have all come together in order to perform, be creative and – over all – to have a lot of fun. There are about twenty members in the group, whose ages run from teenagers to seventy-somethings. Each one of them brings something different to the group, from performance, song, dance and production, to stage set and design and all things technical. It is so true of any small community - scratch the surface and you will find rich seams of talent. Their repertoire to date includes an interactive murder-mystery; two ‘dysfunctional’ family dramas; Harvey (the 1944 play by American playwright Mary Chase about a man and his imaginary rabbit); a musical/dramatic re-creation of the events of World War ll and a costume drama performed in the ruins of Huntly Castle. Smaller productions include performances for 64
Hogmanay and Burns’ Night. They have a young technical team whose knowledge and experience has grown with each production, proving themselves capable of some very sophisticated lighting and sound techniques. Necessity being the mother of invention, the limited facilities at Glass Hall have resulted in wonderful opportunities for the team to show what they are made of and they have risen to the challenge every time. They pride themselves on the attention to detail of their sets and their creative use of music and ‘moves’. It’s all about teamwork and they are constantly learning with every production. There have already been three sell-out performances at Glass Hall, so the Aberdeen performance will be a challenge for the group but they are more than capable of holding their own; they will throw themselves into every minute of the performance and will no doubt amuse and entertain the Aberdeen audiences.
W
COMPETITIONS
WIN, WIN, WIN...
y vonce...’ ‘allo ‘allo
S
N
TI
O
P
www.s eethrup roduction s.co.uk
o
UC OD P R TS S E E T H R U’ ESEN R
by Jerem y Lloyd & David Croft
ARTS CE NT & THEA RE TRE ABER
DEEN 27th - 28 th Oct Fri & Sa 2017 t evening - 7.30p Sat ma m tinee 2pm
TICK £14 (£12 ETS conc) availab le from Box Of fice Ab er boxoffi ceaberde deen en.com 01224 64 1122 This producti amateur on of is presente‘allo ‘allo d by special with SAM arrangement UEL FRE NCH LTD
Arts Ce ntre & Th 33 King eatre Street Aberdeen AB24 5A , www.a A ct-a berdeen.o rg.uk
‘Allo, ‘Allo will be at The Arts Centre in Aberdeen for two nights only – on Friday 27th and Saturday 28th October, with a matinee on Saturday. boxofficeaberdeen.com
WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS! PAGE 65
Lifestyle MAG
We have some fantastic giveaways this month from a £30 voucher for Room to Relax towards a treatment of your choice to a signed copy of cookery writer Ghille Basan’s book Flavours of the Middle East. Colours of Cluny is giving away a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) for their preview night on 8th November (all you need to do is answer their question on page 63!) while am-dram team See Thru’ Productions is inviting two people to see their matinee performance of ‘Allo, ‘Allo on Saturday 28th October at the Aberdeen Arts Centre in Aberdeen. If drumming is your thing, how about an hour’s work-out with Rossini Cavalcante in his stateof-the-art drum studio in Aberlour. Or perhaps you would prefer to stay at home and snuggle up with a friend and a bottle of the new Moray Mocha from El:gin. Whatever’s your thing there’s something for you!
Competition codes Signed Ghillie Basan book: GHILLBOOK Bottle of New Moray Mocha: GINMOCH Two tickets to ‘Allo, ‘allo: SEEALLOALLO Room to Relax voucher: ROOMREL Drumming with Rossini: DRUMROSS Colours of Cluny family ticket: CLUNYFAM (and answer their question on page 63) Email your name and address to competitions@ mms-publishing.scot or send a postcard to: Lifestyle Magazine, MMS-Almac, Unit 6, Tyock Industrial Estate, Elgin, IV30 1XY Remember to state your competition codes!
Draw for ‘Allo, ‘Allo tickets 23rd October Colours of Cluny tickets - 12 noon on 2nd November All other competitions 6th November 65
FELIX WHERE DO I COME FROM?
Downunder..? The search continues. From the very first day that Felix appeared, way back in January, he has been roaming the world in search of who he is and where his roots are. A bit like us, tracing our family trees.
A
fter forays into Chile, Denmark, Jamaica, Dubai, Croatia and Ireland Felix is no closer to finding out his country of origin – and so the search continues. This time he is amongst our Antipodean friends: ‘G’day mate! Felix here on the search for some of my Potoo clan in beautiful Australia. I spent my first morning basking in the sun on the beaches, which was great, but trying to get all the sand out of my feathers has been quite a challenge. People were taking a dip and surfing the crashing waves, barbecuing food and generally enjoying themselves with friends and family. When I explained my mission, the locals and tourists were so kind and pointed me in the direction of Australia Zoo where hundred of birds and all sorts of animals live. It’s a huge vibrant and rather noisy place filled with happy people and happy animals. The crocodiles looked terrifying but I must say they were absolute gentlemen. I made friends with a kangaroo although she didn’t say much and a few times she tried to kick me... I’m sure she didn’t mean it badly. Finally, I found a menagerie of birds
POTOOS
are a group of near passerine birds related to the nightjars and frogmouths. They are sometimes called poor-me-ones, after their haunting calls. There are seven species in one genus, Nyctibius, in tropical Central and South America.
66
did you know...
from swallows to parrots, all singing amongst themselves. I searched high and low for a familiar beak but, yet again, I had no luck. Gary the cockatoo reassured me that although I hadn’t found my family he was sure my quest would take me to some more wonderful places. I took his suggestion to fly to the Sydney Opera house later that evening to see fireworks flashing over the water in every colour I could imagine. It was such a stunning sight that I couldn’t be sad anymore. However, I had to keep looking, make more friends and explore the world until my family and I were together again.’ Where next? Who knows...
PRIMA COLLECTION
FOPE.COM
PRIMA COLLECTION PRIMA COLLECTION
FOPE.COM FOPE.COM
15%
OFF THURSDAY 26th OCT –– TO ––
AVAIL ABLE AT AVAIL ABLE AT AVAIL ABLE AT
THURSDAY 2nd NOV In store only on selected lines. Applicable on spending £50 or over. Not available on interest free finance.
219-223 George Street | Aberdeen AB25 1HY
219-223 GeorgeStreet Street || Aberdeen AB25 1HY1HY 219-223 George Aberdeen AB25 www.finnies.com www.finnies.com www.finnies.com
AD Finnies-Prima.indd 1 AD Finnies-Prima.indd 1
24/07/17 16:59 24/07/17 16:59