Lifestyle Magazine Scotland - April May 2024

SOSWF CEILIDH

TWO TICKETS

GORDON CASTLE GAMES

FAMILY TICKET

SIMPSONS GARDEN CENTRE

£25 VOUCHER

PHIL & ALY CONCERT

TWO TICKETS

MBW CONFERENCE ENTRY TICKET

GORDON CASTLE HIGHLAND GAMES AND COUNTRY FAIR – SUNDAY 19TH MAY 2024

A Celebration of Scottish Heritage

Nestled in the Spey Valley, Gordon Castle stands as a testament to Scotland’s rich history and cultural heritage. Each year this historic estate comes alive with the vibrant energy of the Gordon Castle Highland Games and Country Fair drawing visitors from far and wide to immerse themselves in a day of festivities, athleticism, and tradition.

The event was brought back to life in 2011 by Angus and Zara Gordon Lennox the current owners. This year, mark your calendars for Sunday, May 19th, 2024, as the grounds of Gordon Castle prepare to host another unforgettable event.

running through the estate, which boasts some of the best salmon fishing in the world.

By the early twentieth century the Gordon Castle Highland Games had become a hugely popular event. Thanks to the patronage and great enthusiasm of the then Duke and Duchess of Richmond and Gordon the Games became renowned throughout Scotland. By the late 1920s the Gordon Castle Highland Games had become synonymous with world record breaking escapades in the heavy events and was an unmissable fixture in the Highland Games calendar.

Completed as one of Scotland’s largest houses in the 1770s by the Duke of Gordon, Gordon Castle is the spiritual home of the House of Gordon, one of Scotland’s oldest families. The estate is in the heart of whisky country with a stretch of the world-renowned River Spey

The Games was halted during the Great War as the castle was used as an auxiliary hospital to care for injured soldiers. In 1938, the Estate was sold back to the Crown following two successive deaths and then fell into disrepair before being ‘rescued’ by Lieutenant General Sir George Gordon Lennox

Images by Lindsay Robertson

(grandson of the 7th Duke of Richmond and Gordon) after World War Two. He was forced to knock down much of the original house due to dry and wet rot, but he and his wife began the loving restoration, which Angus Gordon Lennox (Grandson of Sir George) and his wife Zara, continue today.

Held in the historic grounds of Gordon Castle, the games bring together traditional Scottish entertainment and country sports performances, offering something for all the family. For the first time the games arena will host a Women’s Open Heavy Competition as well as the Scottish 28lb Weight for Distance Championships along with the ever-popular caber toss. The 2024 tug o’ war will feature a men’s and again for the first time, a women’s open event and an open novice mixed team event.

The Country Sports Arena will welcome back Mordor Gun Dogs and the much-loved Gordon Setter gathering. Our headline act is the fantastic Savage Skills, BMX Stunt team. In between the packed schedule of both arenas visitors will enjoy massed pipe band displays, wood turning, archery, axe throwing, lazer clay, fishing demonstrations and falconry display.

There is also plenty to keep the little ones entertained with lots of attractions for 2024 in the children’s play zone – bouncy castles, face painting, sand art, caricatures, races and much more!

Tower Hall will be transformed into a shopping boutique showcasing over thirty small businesses. In addition to this, we will be welcoming a wide variety of traders throughout the grounds. With an audience of avid foodies, the Games will be welcoming many food businesses that will be sure to have something to tempt you.

For further information on the Highland Games and Country Fair and Gordon Castle Estate please visit www.gordoncastle.co.uk

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GAMES & SHOWS 2024

We certainly hope that the weather looks favourably on all the Games and Shows that are being organised throughout Scotland.

As you left the showground last year the dedicated committees started planning for 2024 and they are now madly working on pulling it all together in the last few weeks and months leading up to their main event.

It takes many volunteer hours to bring you these fantastic events year after year. Please consider

The Cornhill Highland Games is up next and takes place on Saturday 1st June in Cornhill by Banff.

The event kicks off from 10am with Highland Dancing competitions, followed by a variety of heavy and light traditional Highland Games events from 11am, including the popular toss the caber and throwing the hammer contests.

Now in its 52nd year, the Knock Hill Race starts at 11am, challenging competitors across an 8.5 mile road and hill route.

this if at any time things don’t quite go to plan and instead of criticising, maybe consider if you could do better. If the answer is yes then they would be delighted to welcome you on board as a volunteer.

Lifestyle is covering many of these wonderful events starting off with Gordon Castle Games on Sunday 19th May which you read about in the previous pages.

You can register online now at: www.entrycentral.com.

Prize money will be awarded for top placements.

There are plenty for the kids and they love to take part. The children’s races will take place in the games arena from 2pm.

If you don’t fancy the hill then there is a 10k road race which also takes place from 11am.

Teams from across the north east will battle it out in enthralling tug o’ war competitions, where Young Farmers winners from both men’s and ladies’ contests will qualify for the Royal Highland Show competitions later this year.

Visitors can also enjoy entertainment from local pipe bands, a variety of stalls and catering options, as well as a licensed bar, with entertainment from 4.30pm (over 18s only).

FORRES

Saturday 6th July is the date you need to know for the Forres Highland Games.

Set in Grant Park the Forres Highland Games offers a fun afternoon for all the family.

From caber tossing to the hammer throw, long jump, high jump and more, the Games will provide you with a traditional Scottish experience.

fairground attractions, beer tent and food outlets.

There is Highland dancing, solo piping and drumming and massed pipe bands.

Games Day commences with a Pipe Band Procession from the High Street before the Games’ flag is raised above the arena.

Visitors will enjoy craft and artisan food stalls,

Unique to the Forres Games is the Message Bike Race where spectators can turn participant and race the field on an old traditional message bike.

That is one you don’t want to miss!

BLACK ISLE

Black Isle Show is the next one Lifestyle has to tell you about and that is on Wednesday 31st July and Thursday 1st August.

This is the 185th Black Isle Show and preparations are gathering pace.

On Wednesday from 4pm you can wander round the many trade stands, watch the show jumping final and the charity tractor push. There will be music in the bar and plenty ring entertainment. Or take the kids to the fun fair

The main day of course is Thursday 1st August you will be entertained all day.

Returning this year—Heavy Horse Turnout Championship Class.

This will provide a fabulous spectacle in the main ring You must come and marvel at these magnificent animals.

Over 2000 livestock exhibits, 250 trade stands, full size fun fair and a full ring programme. The main ring attractionsSteve “Showtime” Colley motorcycle stunt display will perform both days.

The Vintage Tractors Parade and Discovery Zone. The Sheep Show and Sheep Shearing Competitions. Dog Show; Kids Races, Food & Craft Hall and the Flower Show, so plenty to see and do.

If you can stand the pace and stay on until late. Come to the Evening Dance in the Marquee with music by Scooty & The Skyhooks.

TURRIFF

All the way east to Turriff next on Sunday 4th and Monday 5th August for Turriff Show

Turriff Show, is the biggest two-day agricultural show in Scotland, attracting around 24,000 people, including those involved in farming as well as many non-farming people who enjoy the show for its wide array of activities.

Three hundred plus exhibitor stands as well as some of the finest food and drink, arts and crafts stands, which include producers from within Aberdeenshire and beyond.

The show has been held in the north-east town since 1864 and was originally held on a Tuesday to coincide with the Turriff “mart day”.

Today, the show awards over £85,000 in prize money and 330 trophies.

The show’s 1,554 classes range from the best cattle, sheep and horses, through to working dogs, poultry and vintage vehicles.

Sunday 4th & Monday 5th August 2024 at The Haughs, Turriff, AB53 4EF

Horses & Ponies, Goats, Rabbits, Cavies & Pigeons, Clydesdale Horses, Cattle including Scottish National Simmental Show, Sheep including Scottish Region

Bluefaced Leicester Progeny Show, Poultry, Open Dog Show (Sunday) and Companion Dog Show (Monday)

Ringside entertainment – Sunday & Monday –Kipperridge Gundog Display and The Sheep Show, Grand Parade of Premium Livestock, Sulky Trotting, Adult and Junior Show Jumping including Mini-Major Relay, Vintage and Classic Vehicles and Highland Dancing Competition (R.S.O.B.H.D. Rules)

300 trade stands, Agricultural Machinery, Motor Cars, Food and Drink Marquee, Shopping Mall, Art & Crafts and Exhibition Marquee

For Further Information contact: Gail Greig, Secretary

Telephone: 01888 562219 | Email: info@turriffshow.org

THE GRANTOWN SHOW

WISHES TO WELCOME EVERYONE TO OUR ‘FRIENDLY FAMILY’ SHOW

THURSDAY 8TH AUGUST 2024

Heathfield Park, Grantown on Spey

A day out for all the family

Cattle, Horse, Sheep and Domestic Judging starts 9am

Afternoon events start from 1.30pm

– featuring vintage vehicles, pageant of decorated vehicles

Craft Tent, Fun Fair and Trade Stands

Marquee Dance on show field Friday 9th August from 9pm dancing to K & the Pupils

grantownshow@btinternet.com | www.grantownshow.com

Sat 10th & Sun 11th August, 2024

Seafield Park, Keith

Show Secretary: Carly Mackay

Show Office, Seafield Park, Keith, Banffshire, AB55 5EJ

E: info@keithshow.org.uk W: keithshow.org.uk

T: 07816 316559

Forres Highland Games

Black Isle Show

GRANTOWN

Grantown Show on Thursday 8th August

The Strathspey Farmers Club would like to invite you all to attend the Grantown Show.

2023 saw 4200 spectators attend and you are all welcome to return.

Cattle, sheep, horses and domestic sectors along with the many trade stands and craft stalls will once again be available for your entertainment.

With many catering vans and the crew in the shed there to keep you all fed and watered throughout the day

They have a much improved PA system thanks to Ollie’s NightFever Discos to ensure you keep up with what’s going on in the ring.

There will be another fine show of vintage vehicles.

If you feel up to it you can get involved with the bulk bag sack race or the tug the tractor as well as the Terrier racing and the pets parade.

There is something for everyone at Grantown Show.

KEITH

Last but by no means least on the Lifestyle calendar is Keith Show. Sunday and Monday were the traditional days for Keith Show but in 2023 they moved to Saturday, Sunday. This proved to be a success so Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th August are the dates for Keith Show 2024 which is the 150th Anniversary of the Show.

The Keith Show has been entertaining the Northeast of Scotland for 150 years and was originally thought to have replaced the “Simmereve Fayre”, which dates back to at least the 1700’s.

Though farming methods today are somewhat different than those of our fore fathers, the Keith Show still holds true to its agricultural roots. These can be demonstrated by the different exhibitions, demonstrations and traders available within the showground.

So why not come along and join us for an exhilarating fun packed couple of days.

We have a large display from some of the North East’s prominent businesses. From Agricultural Machinery to Garden Furniture, Childrens Toys & Activities, Catering Vans with Picnic Areas, Sweets, Cakes and Ice Cream, Vehicles & Motorhomes.

Our Craft, Lifestyle and food Marquees will be showcasing the local area’s finest produce.

This makes our show a great opportunity to come along and try many local products or if you have your own produce why not book a space and promote your products.

This is a great opportunity to meet the general public and tell them your story

So whether you are an exhibitor or a visitor there is something for you at Keith Show

SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVAL

For lovers of whisky, be they complete newcomers or experienced old hands, Speyside in early May is the place to be. From the 1st of May, for 6 days, the region will be offering a varied programme of events that will take the visitor on a whirlwind tour of everything ‘whisky’. There are over 700 whisky inspired events to appreciate, from formal dining to casual (but highly informative) tours. There is the Ultimate Whisky Flight too, which includes a helicopter flight with Glenfarclas – a once in a lifetime, unforgettable experience.

All this is no mean feat to achieve. Over the past 25 years the organisers and local businesses connected with the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival have worked tirelessly to produce what is now one of the best whisky festivals in the world. From small beginnings it has grown with each passing year and now caters for all tastes and all budgets. Almost 40% of the visitors are

Lunchtime Whisky Picnic

Exploring the William Grant & Sons Archive

from overseas, around 20% are local and the rest come from all corners of the UK. What is wonderful about it all is the fact that everyone joins in with enthusiasm and the camaraderie is palpable.

All this is not surprising as the Speyside locals are a chatty, friendly bunch who welcome visitors. They are proud of the area in which they live and are more than keen to share details of the remarkable whiskies that are made here. Speyside is a region rich in the natural ingredients which come together to make the amber fluid – the gloriously clear waters that rush down from the hills, the locally grown barley and the passion of the whisky makers themselves. All combine to make Speyside, with its 51 distilleries, a truly special place indeed. A few days here is all you need for the region to work its magic on you.

Visitors come not only for the whisky but also to immerse themselves in the spectacular scenery that the region offers. There are endless beaches; thick luxuriant forests; vast, eerie yet stunningly beautiful moors; snowcapped hills and the majesty of the Cairngorms. Accommodation can range from the luxury hotels to guest houses, caravan sites, glamping pods and the humble tent - but you have to be quick as visitors are likely to book well in advance.

Tickets have been selling out at a rapid rate but there are still opportunities to buy into a wealth of tastings, tours, ceilidhs and quizzes that are on offer. Check the website for a list of all available events, grab a friend and be prepared to have a truly wonderful time.

www.longmorecommunityhall.com

Cardhu Liquid Gold

GlenAllachie - Wonder of Wood

The Food & Whisky Experience @ The Cairn Spey Salmon Fishing

Still and Stove Tasting menu

Afood and drink festival which showcases the best the town has to offer, is returning for a fourth year.

Taste of Nairn will run from May 10-12 and will incorporate two markets, demonstrations, tastings, and a number of individual events taking place in the seaside town.

Returning as title sponsor of the three-day event is Asher’s Bakery which has given its support to Taste of Nairn, since its conception in 2019, as are we, Lifestyle Magazine which is the event’s Publicity Partner.

This year, Taste of Nairn, organised by Nairn BID, will host two markets on May 11 – one held in

the Nairn Community and Arts Centre and the other in the town centre.

Lucy Harding, Nairn BID manager said: “Each year we make tweaks to the event to make sure it is fresh and offers something new. This year, we are delighted to be adding a street market to the already ample offering and we are hoping the local businesses get on board with this, take advantage of the opportunity and either take a stall or create their own market day or festival offers & events.

Back by popular demand is the World Tattie Scone Championship supported by Oakwood Cookery School and the Showstopper Cake

Contest will be sponsored by Makes by Megs.

“We are so thrilled to be hosting the World Tattie Scone Championship again. It’s a hugely popular event and is a lot of fun. It’s dead easy because all we ask is that entrants provide their own secret ingredient: everything else is provided,” explained Lucy.

She added: “The Showstopper Cake Contest is slightly different this year and will have a professional category as well as amateur entries. The professionals will be given set parameters to adhere to, whilst the amateur bakers will have more freedom to create a cake with a Nairn theme.”

Ali Asher from Ashers Bakery, title sponsor of Taste of Nairn said he was delighted to be involved for a fourth time.

“We are delighted that Taste of Nairn is back and we are supporting it as title sponsor once again. The lineup looks great and I would urge the businesses of the town to get involved. Ashers always takes a stall at the indoor market and it’s always a very successful event for us.”

He added: “Taste of Nairn really puts the spotlight on what fantastic food and drink Nairn and the surrounding area offers. We are very fortunate in Nairnshire and the Highlands to have so many fantastic producers; this is the perfect platform to showcase what we all do.”

Adventure awaits at Inverness Airport

Inverness Airport truly embodies the spirit of the Scottish Highlands – warm, welcoming, and ready to whisk you away on unforgettable adventures! And while our size may be charmingly modest, our services are anything but.

As an award-winning hub, we’re on hand to connect our travellers to a world of possibilities. In fact, for the fourth year running, we were named the Best Airport under 2 Million Passengers in Europe at the prestigious 2023 Airports Council International (ACI) Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards, as well as receiving the title of Airport with the Most Dedicated Staff in Europe.

But what is an airport without its airlines?

Here at Inverness Airport, the world is at your fingertips, with the help of leading airlines such as EasyJet, British Airways, Loganair, and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.

This allows customers to connect to local destinations – including the dramatic coastlines and hidden coves of the Scottish Islands – or embrace new and unknown cities and cultures with connections through major travel hubs including Manchester Airport, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, and three London airports.

From these locations, our travellers can continue on to popular destinations such as New York, Dubai, Cape Town and Rio de Janeiro – this summer, will also see the return of our TUI flights to Majorca for those in search of sun, sea and city wandering.

So, whether you're a seasoned traveller or embarking on your first international adventure, let Inverness Airport get you to where you need to be.

CHARITY

Clan tees up Moray Golf Day as next event in charity’s anniversary celebrations

Moray Golf Club will host Clan’s first ever Moray Golf Day on Friday April 26 as part of a series of events to celebrate the charity’s 10-year anniversary in Moray.

Book now to avoid disappointment.”

Clan tees up Moray Golf Day as next event in charity’s anniversary

Keen golfers are being invited to take a swing at raising funds for Moray Golf Club this month.

Clan’s Elgin centre was officially opened by Princess Anne in 2013 following the charity being established in Aberdeen in 1983.

The old course will host Clan’s first ever Moray Golf Day on Friday series of events to celebrate the charity’s 10-year anniversary in

Players will enjoy breakfast in the Clubhouse at 10am before taking classic links course designed by world renowned Scottish golfer Old

The charity offers a listening and support service for anyone impacted by a cancer diagnosis, a dedicated children and families team to help young people and their loved ones navigate a cancer journey and NHS aligned complementary therapies.

A BBQ and prize giving will conclude the event with teams of four £500. Additional hole sponsorship opportunities are also available.

Julie Ferguson, Clan’s Moray local services co-ordinator said: “Clan fixture in our fundraising calendar, and we are excited to bring the golfers the chance to play on one of the finest links courses in Scotland.

Players will enjoy breakfast in the Clubhouse at 10am before taking to the green at the classic links course designed by world renowned Scottish golfer Old Tom Morris.

“The event is the perfect opportunity to entertain clients or team build proceeds going towards Clan’s lifeline cancer support services. We’d take part to book now to avoid disappointment.”

The events programme will conclude with the Clan Ceilidh at Laichmoray Hotel, Elgin on Saturday, 7th September 2024 with tickets priced at £30.

Clan’s Elgin centre was officially opened by Princess Anne in 2013 being established in Aberdeen in 1983.

A BBQ and prize giving will conclude the event with teams of four invited to register for £500. Additional hole sponsorship opportunities are also available.

Julie Ferguson, Clan’s Moray local services coordinator said: “Clan Golf Days are a popular fixture in our fundraising calendar, and we are excited to bring the event to Moray, giving golfers the chance to play on one of the finest links courses in Scotland.

For more information on all Moray events and to book, please email: fundraising@clancancersupport.org or visit https://bit.ly/3TN1mQE

The charity offers a listening and support service for anyone impacted diagnosis, a dedicated children and families team to help young people navigate a cancer journey and NHS aligned complementary therapies.

Bowel cancer patient joins medical experts and Clan for public event in Aberdeen this month

The events programme will conclude with the Clan Ceilidh at Laichmoray Saturday, 7th September 2024 with tickets priced at £30.

For more information on all Moray events and to book, please email fundraising@clancancersupport.org or visit h#ps://bit.ly/3TN1mQE

“The event is the perfect opportunity to entertain clients or team build with colleagues with all proceeds going towards Clan’s lifeline cancer support services.

A former AFC coach will warn against the dangers of missing a bowel cancer screening test at a public event organised by Clan Cancer Support later this month.

Bowel cancer pa,ent joins medical experts and Clan for public event

Kenny Strachan (62), who was part of AFC’s Women’s football coaching team before his bowel cancer diagnosis, has been coming to the

charity for emotional and physical support since 2022 following life changing surgeries.

He will share his experience at Clan’s Bowel Cancer Awareness event, at Clan House in Aberdeen as part of the charity’s activity during Bowel Cancer Awareness month.

Around 4,000 people in Scotland get bowel cancer every year making it the country’s third most common cancer.

anniversary celebrations for Clan Cancer Support at Friday April 26 as part of a Moray.

People living in Scotland between the age of 50 and 74 years are invited to complete a bowel screening test every two years in Scotland to detect any abnormalities.

taking to the green at the Old Tom Morris. four invited to register for available.

Kenny was diagnosed shortly after completing a routine bowel cancer test but admitted he did miss the test on one occasion, something he now regrets.

“Clan Golf Days are a popular the event to Moray, giving Scotland.

build with colleagues with all We’d urge those looking to

He said: “Having reflected on my cancer journey over the past few years I now realise just how important that simple testing procedure is. By the time I was diagnosed, the bowel cancer was more advanced.

2013 following the charity

“I was extremely lucky. So my message at this month’s event is simple – take the test and you could save your life.”

impacted by a cancer people and their loved ones therapies.

This event aims to inform and support anyone who is worried about symptoms, those living with bowel cancer and anyone currently supporting someone with a diagnosis.

Laichmoray Hotel, Elgin on email event in Aberdeen this month

Kay Johnston, head of cancer support services at Clan, said: “We hope the event gives people the knowledge and the courage to seek advice from medical professionals if they have any symptoms and to talk to Clan about the support, we can offer them and their loved ones.”

Clan’s Bowel Cancer Awareness event will take place from 10am - 12pm on Saturday, April 27 at Clan House Aberdeen. Registration is required for this event. To register please complete an online form here: https://bit.ly/3TEGN7Y or call 01224 647000.

For more information please visit: clancancersupport.org

Sky is the limit for fundraisers taking on Clan’s newest challenge

Clan Cancer Support is looking for thrill seekers to take a leap of faith in its Skydive fundraising challenge this summer.

Adrenaline junkies will plunge 10,000 ft from a five person aircraft hovering over spectacular scenery of Perthshire and the Kingdom of Fife on Sunday, June 30.

The once in a lifetime opportunity will see participants experience 30 seconds of free-fall, skydiving through the air at speeds of up to 120 miles per hour.

The event will take place at Skydive St Andrews with all participants paired with a fully qualified instructor who will guide them through the jump and activate the parachute for a safe landing.

Alana Welsh, Clan’s community development coordinator, said: “Our skydive challenge is a once in a lifetime opportunity and a unique and unforgettable way to raise money for Clan’s vital cancer support services.

Registration for Clan’s Skydive is now open with participants required to raise a minimum of £500 one month prior to the jump or pay Clan £280 to cover the cost of the skydive and set their own fundraising goal for Clan.

Participants can also select to do the jump on another day of their choosing if the arranged date of June 30 is unsuitable for them.

For more information and to register, please visit: https://www.clancancersupport.org/ fundraising/events/skydive/

Cairn Cattoch, Archiestown

Tracy undertakes lovely walks all over our beautiful country and we are delighted she has agreed to provide Lifestyle readers with the inside knowledge that she has gleaned from her many adventures.

I hope you enjoy Tracy’s walks? Please do let us know and send us some photos.

This is a beautiful woodland walk with a gentle hill hike in rural Moray. The walk begins in the village of Archiestown which was founded in 1760 by Sir Archibald Grant of Monymusk. The well kept square has several information boards that are rather interesting reading on the history of this lovely wee village.

Distance: 5 ½ miles

Time: 2 - 2 ½ hours

Level: Easy

Terrain: Forestry track, narrow woodland paths and quiet village walking.

Access: Arrive by car parking in the square parking area nearest the hotel AB38 7QQ where the walk begins. There is also a M-Connect bus that runs from Elgin to Archiestown Monday to Friday.

After you have explored the square, head up past the war memorial and go straight on. Soon you will leave the village and start heading towards the woods. You will pass one more house to the right hand side before you come to the forestry gate.

At the gate go straight on and you will begin the gentle climb up through the woods on the fantastic track which would also be suitable to cycle and even great for an off-road buggy. Make sure you look back as you are walking uphill as there are some amazing views of Ben Rinnes behind you.

You will pass by a few paths on your left but ignore these and carry straight on. There were plenty of birds in the trees as I was walking,

and I am sure there was plenty of wildlife that was most likely hiding from my dogs. I did have a look for frog’s spawn and other beasties in the ditches at the sides of the paths but unfortunately I didn’t spot any but maybe you will.

After about 1 ½ miles the path will start to curve to the left after another ½ mile there is a slightly rougher track to your right. Head up this track which will shortly take a turn to the right. Carry on until you come to the next junction.

Take the path that turns up to the left that is signposted to Cairn Cattoch, soon you will come to a stone with March carved into it. This stone marks the border between Knockando and Rothes Estates. This is where the Riding of The Marches comes from which was an old custom of a ceremonial procession usually by horseback to make sure the neighbouring estate has not encroached on the owner’s land.

(The next section of the walk is no longer suitable for a buggy or cycle)

At the March stone turn left and follow the very rough narrow track until you reach the summit of Cairn Cattoch where you will find a marker post and another March Stone. There is a fantastic view of the countryside in front of you and the Cairn Uish wind farm to your left. After you have taken all your photos and had a snack you can retrace your steps until you come back to the Cairn Cattoch sign post.

Take a left here and start your gentle descent back down the hill, keep going until you come to a gate for the quarry. Take another left here so you can skirt round the side of the quarry and pass by another gate at the opposite end of the quarry. Follow the track until the next junction.

Turn left at the junction and go straight down the track enjoying your final section of your walk in the woods until you return to the gate and shortly after you return back to the village.

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Wednesday 22nd May is the date of the 2024 Moray Business Women’s Conference.

This year it is being held in the Stotfield Hotel in Lossiemouth starting at 9am with some time for networking before the main event at 10am.

This will allow anyone with school runs or just business to attend to first and ensure they don’t miss out.

This is planned to be a day filled with learning, inspiration and great company.

We have lined up an incredible roster of speakers for the day. They will certainly deliver

inspiring talks covering a broad range of topics to please all tastes.

Whether you are a large or small business owner or even those working in business, not necessarily their own, there will be something here for you.

Marie-Claire Donnely is the owner of multiple successful businesses. She is a Life, Business and Wellness Coach, the creator of Dream Magic Superfood Powders and co-founder of Dream Fitness and Neuro Reframe Therapy. She is also a published Author and her book It Is What It Is: Universal and Everlasting Lessons from Lockdown and was published in March 2021.

Claire Rennie

Marie-Claire Donnelly

She is super passionate about all things related to improving Health, Fitness and Mental Wellbeing and her mission in life is to help others feel their best, whilst having a blast during their time spent on good old planet earth.

Marie-Claire will dive into the importance of mindset in business, offering valuable insights and strategies.

Claire Rennie from Summer House Drinks and Walter Gregor's tonic will share her journey of business growth and how she successfully sold one business to fuel the growth of the next.

Claire launched Summer House Drinks in 2014 and is the sister company to Walter Gregor'sScotland's first tonic water. Based on the family farm in Aberdeenshire where the Rennie family have farmed for four generations, Claire and the Summerhouse Drinks team are committed to using all-natural ingredients to make their handmade sodas and lemonades.

Style School Scotland will lead an afternoon session with a mini fashion show, showcasing capsule wardrobes designed to help you dress for success while staying true to yourself and your business.

Style School are passionate about helping every individual to feel confident in their own skin. When you know you look good, you feel great.

They help you learn your own personal style formula, along with the tools and techniques to enable you to become a more confident, stylish you.

You won’t want to miss these amazing speakers!

Moray Business Women understand the demands of balancing work and family life, which is why our event runs from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM, with the main event scheduled from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM. This allows ample time for networking while accommodating those with school runs or other commitments.

Based on valuable feedback this event has been moved from June to May to avoid clashing with end of term school events and avoiding popular holiday dates.

Don't miss out on this enriching opportunity to learn, connect, and grow together with fellow business women! Reserve your spot now!

This event is open to all business women in Moray you do not need to be a member of the organisation. Although after this amazing event and meeting these wonderful women, you will definitely want to join!

We look forward to welcoming you to the Moray Business Women Annual Conference!

Buy your tickets now www.mbwc.org.uk/events

For those traveling to the area, the Stotfield hotel has kindly offered a discount.

Please use discount code - MBWCONF24 for accommodation at the venue.

Spring Gardening Tips

As we come into spring, it’s very much the time to get back into the garden! With longer, brighter, and warmer days there’s so much to do and enjoy. Here’s our top tips for your garden this April/ May with a focus on lush lawns!

Love your Lawn

We all want to enjoy lush lawns, but like anything in life you get out what you put in, so a bit of TLC now can make all the difference in the summer months.

What are the four secrets to a happy, healthy lawn? 1. Regular mowing 2. Feeding 3. Treating weeds and moss and 4. Dealing with bare patches. For most of us the problems are either bare worn-out patches or thick springy moss. If treated correctly these problems can soon be rectified, giving us the lawn we dream about.

The best action to take is to apply a complete lawn care product that will feed, weed and kill the moss in the lawn. To achieve the best results, timing, preparation, application and aftercare are all essential. Although this sounds very complicated by following simple steps it really is quite straightforward.

On average only 25% of people ever feed their lawns –make sure you’re one of them! Start by applying a feed, weed and moss-killing product to your lawn. This should be done evenly to avoid a patchy uneven result. On large lawns, use a spreader for the best results and follow the recommended amounts suggested and apply shortly after / before mowing. (liquid feed if treating a small area)

After application allow the product to work for approximately a week. The results can be very alarming, especially if your

lawn turns black! Don’t panic as it is the moss that is dead and not the grass. Your lawn can now be raked or scarified to remove all the dead moss and thatch at the base of the grass. Many people make the mistake of applying the weed, feed and moss killer after scarifying the lawn, which just makes harder work.

TIPS FOR SPRING

• Keep weeds under control with regular hoeing.

• Plant pot-grown fruit trees and bushes.

• Protect tender plants from late frosts.

• Tie in climbing and rambling roses.

• Sow hardy annuals, herbs and wildflower seed outdoors.

• Feed hungry shrubs and roses.

Once removed, re-seed bare patches after topdressing by applying two parts sharp sand, one part peat and one part loam. This will improve the drainage around the base of the grass. Apply with a shovel and settle it in by using a stiff yard brush.

Now the bare spots can be re-seeded, with the right type of grass seed to suit your lawn needs/ use. When sowing the seed apply it thickly but do not cover with soil as this will cause it to rot. New grass should start to show within ten days.

For badly waterlogged lawns it may be necessary to aerate to improve drainage, using a garden fork or an aerator for maximum affect. Once complete apply a top dressing to prevent the problem recurring – pure sand is good for this.

Grow your own

• Chit and plant out second early potatoes first half of April, maincrop potatoes in the second half.

• Sow seed outdoors for beetroot, carrots, Swiss chard, summer cauliflower, lettuce, leeks, radish, turnip, spring onions, peas and spinach in well-prepared soil or containers.

• Late spring deadhead spring-flowering bulbs, then lift and divide overcrowded clumps.

• Harden off plants grown from seed and cuttings by gradually leaving outside for up to 14 days before planting out.

• Thin out direct sowings of veggies and hardy annuals

• Late spring liquid feed plants in containers every 2 to 4 weeks and keep all containers well-watered.

• Tie and train sweet peas on their supports to encourage growth.

• Look out for Vine Weevil, Aphids and other pests and treat appropriately.

• Start to mow weekly – starting at a higher setting – don’t forget to add clippings to your compost heap.

Pop into Simpsons Inverness or Mintlaw for advice and everything you need this Spring.

Speyside Spa - Colourful Beginnings

Patience is in short supply at this time of the year, as we await the lengthening days signalling spring’s renewal. The snowdrops are just showing their pretty faces and the first brave shoots are yet to emerge from the frosty earth.

We may have to be patient with nature, but there are other ways to bring vibrancy into our lives and spring into the season. A new hair colour can transform how we look and feel. If you haven’t explored colour in the past, perhaps now’s the time to try?

How about some sun kissed strands of blonde through your hair? ‘Balayage’, which in French means ‘to sweep’ or ‘to paint’ a freehand application of colour, usually taking the lightest shades to the end of the strands of hair to mimic how the sun naturally lightens the hair during summer. It’s low maintenance as there are no roots as such, but it’s a great way to bring a hint of summer to these dark, early spring days.

Your colour success depends on finding an expert colourist to work with. Someone who will guide you according to your hair type, length and texture, who has a comprehensive knowledge of the products and techniques available, and who you feel comfortable with.

Highlights lighten small sections of the hair to several shades paler than the base colour. They can be applied to every hair colour and every density. The subtlest version mimics the tiny blonde strands in the hair of small children, called ‘babylights’. Lowlights work on the same principle, but go darker or richer, adding dimension and texture to the hair.

www.speysidespa.com

Why not book your free colour consultation at Speyside Spa in Aberlour? www.speysidespa. com/booking Our skilled stylists will be happy to show you the way to a radiant Spring!

93/95 High St Aberlour

01340 220048

ROSIE BARRON IS THE TIDY COO

Rosie Barron is The Tidy Coo, an award winning Declutter Coach and Professional Organiser and author of Easy Life – from chaos to calm with minimal effort. She is Scotland’s only KonMari Master and the northern most member of APDO (The Association of Professional Declutterers

and Organisers). She lives in Aberdeenshire with her husband, four children and a large menagerie of animals who all bring joy. You can find many of her free resources to help you declutter and organise, as well as how to book in person sessions, on her website, www.thetidycoo.com.

Top 10 Organising Mistakes (and how to avoid them)

I’ve been in this business a while now and there are several mistakes I see time and time again when it comes to organising homes.

1. Not making time to do it

I see this one a lot! People want an organised home and life, but don’t put aside the time to do it. Yes it takes time, but it is an investment. A couple of times a year, I put aside time to completely go through my own home to ensure that everything is fixed and in its right place and the time that this saves me throughout the rest of the year is well worth it. So put some time aside in your diary and don’t let anything else take priority. It will be well worth it!

2. Not making a plan before you start

It is very easy to get overwhelmed when you are trying to get organised. Make a plan for it and start with what you would like your home to look like. Check out my free guide to getting started on my website if you’re not sure where and category checklists are always a good idea.

3. Not decluttering first

People often start an organising session by going out and buying a heap of organising solutions. I know how tempting it is to buy these solutions that promise to revolutionise your life, but nothing is going to keep your home and life organised if you don’t declutter first. Similarly, when you are going through a big declutter and organise of your home, don’t get bogged down in perfecting one area before you move on. I’ve

Images: Laura Walter Photography

seen people stuck on trying to find the perfect kitchen storage and layout when what they have in place is good enough for now – move on to the next!

4. Not having an exit strategy

This is really part of the planning session at the beginning. Know where you want to take your discards and where you are going to store the discards before you start. Find out the names of three charity shops and their opening times as well as the address of your local recycling centre.

5. Heading straight for the difficult stuff

People often head to the sentimental category and then wonder why they are struggling to let go. Start with the easy things, such as getting the recycling out of your home, or the socks with holes in. Once you are practised at letting things go, you can move on to the harder things.

6. Putting unrelated items together

If you have a jumble in one place, it becomes hard to find the things that you need. Equally, having some things stored in one spot and some things in another mean that you’re never quite sure where to look for items, or how many of them you have. Store like with like.

7. Storing essentials out of easy reach

If you use things regularly, they should be in absolute easy reach. Easy reach means not having to get up on a stool, onto your hands and knees, or move other things to get to the thing that you want to use. Use the prime areas of storage for the most regularly used things. For example, in a kitchen, the bottom shelf in the wall cupboards and the top drawer or shelf in the bottom cupboard are absolute

prime space and should be used for things you are regularly reaching for.

8. Making it pretty rather than useful (Lego bricks) Now I love a pretty solution as much as the next organiser. However, there is a time and a place for rainbows and I’ve got to say that Lego ain’t it. Whilst I duck the flaming arrows of the Home Edit brigade I have to ask you this – is it easier to find a yellow oner in a set of yellows or in a set of oners? Case closed.

9. Overcomplicated storage solutions

It can be tempting, as you get towards the end of the journey, so overcomplicate storage. I have a tendency to do this with the files on my computer, make smaller and smaller cascades until I end up with one document per file and I can then never find it. It took some time to get over this, but I now have much larger general files. Don’t overcomplicate things and end up with every hairband having its own dedicated box. Have slightly larger categories – I promise this will also make it easier to put things away and mean you are more likely to be able to keep it tidy.

10. Not finishing completely

Decluttering and organising can be exhausting. It can be very tempting to shove those last few items into a pile and then let them stay there for the next six months. One of the things that we promise here at HCoo is that we will never leave you “unfinished”. We’ll always help you to put away every last thing that we got out during a session.

www.thetidycoo.com

www.facebook.com/thetidycoo

www.instagram.com/the_tidy_coo

www.linkedin.com/in/rosie-barron-a93834173

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Farm to Fork

The 23rd to 31st March was Taste of Moray Speyside’s fabulous event Farm to Fork, which was a celebration of the wonderful produce we have in this part of Scotland.

The week kicked off with the Speyside Producers Market at Elchies Farm on Saturday 23rd March. Despite the weather everyone turned out and had a great day learning about the goats and buying a wide selection of produce from kombucha, honey, loose tea, cakes and of course goat meat.

Sunday 24th saw Spey Bay completely grid locked when thousands descended on Byres Farm for their first Farmers Market. The event was 10am-2pm but, if like me, you were delayed and arrived after 12 o’clock, unfortunately there was very little produce left to purchase. This

was amazing for all the stall holders, what a successful day and they will definitely be repeating the market and I hope they will be able to bring more next time.

The 25th and 28th offered you the opportunity to meet the Longhorn cattle at Logie Estate. Panny, a member of the family offered a walk and talk to see the cows and learn the history of the breed. This event was free.

You can’t get more local than the chef being able to see his produce grazing in the fields from his kitchen window, but that’s exactly the case at Logie Steading. Chef John used Logie beef in his meaty specials that ran throughout the week.

Byres Farm

Logie Steading

As Lower Mill of Tynet Farm put it themselves, Farm to Fork 24/7 is what they do every day but on the 27th, 28th and 30th Farmer G also led tours of the farm.

Lower Mill of Tynet have their farm shop, full of their own and a selection of local produce open

24/7. Don’t forget your bottles to fill up with their delicious milk and of course you also have the option of adding a flavour and making a milk shake, with thirty flavours to choose from.

Saturday and Sunday 30th & 31st saw Thorabella Farm open their doors. Everyone got to meet the buffaloes, highland cattle, wallabies and all their other amazing animals. Ollie and Nikki even gave a Buffalo milking demonstration.

The weather was kind this weekend and everyone had a great day out.

Various other events were held at Elchies, Byres and Logie Steading over the week.

I hope you managed to catch one or more of these wonderful events, but if you missed the Farm to Fork events, you don’t need to wait until next year.

Many of the venues have regular markets or even farm shops open daily, so do go along and support your local farmers and their fabulous produce.

The next event on the farming calendar is Open Farm Sunday, on 9th June 2024 which is farming’s annual open day giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about farming and the countryside.

Visitors, in the run up to June, visit https://farmsunday.org/visit-a-farm to find a farm opening their gates near you.

Together let’s celebrate Scottish farming.

Lower Mill of Tynet

Thorabella Farm

Image courtesy of Jill Brown at Byres Market

Project Planning

We can carry out a feasibility study and together generate a plan.

Residential Alterations, extensions and conversions.

Commercial & Agricultural Workshops, offices, sheds, shops, farm buildings, etc.

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We can carry these out as required by lenders or for your own peace of mind.

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Our 3D services bring your project to life before construction starts.

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We can help investigate the potential for building plots on your land.

SERVICES ALSO AVAILABLE: Planning & building warrant applications, construction drawings, sketch designs, project management, tender processes, title deed plans, etc.

presents the 14th Haal 31 May - 2 June Various venues in Portsoy

Concerts, Workshops, Sing-Arounds, Sessions & Storytelling

Guests include

Jacqui McShee’s Pentangle

Allan Taylor

Chris Miles

Arthur Watson

George Davidson

Sir-Reel Clarks

Warrenpoint Comhaltas

Fil Campbell & Tom McFarland

Plus

Jock Duncan – A Celebration of the Man and his Songs, performed by the elite of Scotland’s trad singers

Tickets & information: bobportsoy@gmail.com or 07968 872 217 | bothyfolk.org

2QT tel 01261 842854

Planning a wedding, newly engaged or renewing your vows? Why not pop along to our open day! Meet with our professional wedding planning team. Talk with our recommended suppliers or have a walk around our beautiful Georgian Mansion and its grounds.

SATURDAY 8th JUNE 2024

11:00am - 6:00pm

Durn House, Durn Road, Portsoy AB45 2XT

info@durnhouse.com

Join Folk at the Salmon

Bothy for the 14th Haal EVENT

Portsoy's Folk at The Salmon Bothy are preparing for their annual traditional music festival which takes place in Portsoy from 31 May – 2 June.

Now in its 14th year, the Haal continues to attract the best performers from across the regions to take part in a variety of concerts, music sessions, workshops and sing-arounds for all ages and performing abilities in venues across Portsoy.

Firmly marked on the traditional music events calendar, the festival brings together visitors from near and afar, whether to take part, or simply to relax and enjoy the on-stage offerings.

The event kicks-off on Friday afternoon with an informal opening and sing-around session, followed by an evening concert showcasing a plethora of Scottish and Irish songs, tunes and dance from Chris Miles, Arthur Watson, George Davidson and Warrenpoint Comhaltas.

Haal 2023. Image by Trish Gayle

Haal 2023. Image by Mary Masson Photography

Haal 2023. Image by Mary Masson Photography

A follow-on late-night sing-around session brings the day to a close. Saturday’s breakfast of porridge and brose accompanied by bothy ballads provides the ideal warm-up for a full programme of afternoon workshops, including songwriting, singing, storytelling, ceilidh dancing and whistle, guitar and percussion sessions.

without whom we would not be able to host this renowned annual event.”

The Greig Duncan song competition also takes place, with entrants invited to sing a song of their choice from the Greig Duncan collection of folk songs. Chris Miles and Arthur Watson share Songs of Love and Loss in a late afternoon performance.

Headlining the Saturday evening showcase concert are definitive modern folk band, Jacquie McShee’s Pentangle, and one of the last of the travelling troubadours, Leeds based Allan Taylor. A late-night festival club hosted by the Sir-Reel Clarks and sessions by Danny Couper and George Davidson follow.

Sunday’s schedule includes a performance titled, Jock Duncan – A Celebration of the Man and his Songs, from the book written by folklorist, singer and musician, Peter Shepheard, and performed by the elite of Scotland’s trad singers.

A number of farewell sing-around sessions led by acclaimed musicians will be hosted at various venues across the town on Sunday afternoon, followed by the grand farewell concert in the evening, where the winner of the Greig Duncan competition will perform.

Bob Philips, chairman of Folk at the Salmon Bothy, comments, “We are looking forward to another packed programme for the 14th Haal, delivered by talented performers from across the traditional music scene. We hope to welcome friends old and new over the weekend, to share our enthusiasm and enjoyment of all things related to the traditional music scene. Our sincere thanks go to our long-standing sponsors, including Kenway Tyres, Hydrasun and Hamlyns,

Tickets for the festival are available now, contact Bob Phillips at bobportsoy@gmail.com or 07968 872 217

Open Mic Nights

The Club also hosts Open Mic Nights on the third Friday of the month throughout the year at Portsoy Salmon Bothy, where keen performers can share music, songs, ballads and poetry around the table, and audience members can simply enjoy the entertainment on offer. Next session is Friday 19th April, with extended sets performed by Borders based singer songwriter, Kenny Spiers. All welcome. Doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm start. Admission £5, and guests may bring their own bottle.

Further information on all Folk at the Salmon Bothy events is available at www.bothyfolk.org or on the Folk at the Salmon Bothy Facebook page.

Haal 2023. Image by Mary Masson Photography

Kenny Speirs

Isla Kitchens & Bathrooms

Despite only being open for six months, Isla Kitchens and Bathrooms have been busy with inquiries for both kitchens and bathrooms and have now successfully completed several projects.

It’s extremely satisfying to meet our customers and to help them with all the choices that a new kitchen or bathroom brings. Choosing a kitchen or bathroom can be a bit overwhelming, so we are here to help you and to talk you carefully through all the details, one at a time. You can choose from our extensive range of samples, allowing you to see how colours and textures work and to get a feeling of how they will look together. Doors, worktops, backsplash, sinks, taps and appliances all are big decisions, and need careful consideration.

Our showroom is equipped with many features, including slide and hide ovens, quartz worktops, hidden bins, pull out shelves, and even internal

mechanical accessibility, all worth considering when making your choices.

We have also supplied some composite and UPVC exterior doors and have a window and UPVC facia and soffit display at our showroom on Westerton Road, Keith.

Another thing we are excited about is our new outdoor living pods. We will have a dining pod with table and seating, a BBQ/kitchen pod for cooking, and a seating pod for relaxing, so please come along and have a look.

Our very experienced tradesmen will assist you in making sure that your dream project runs smoothly from start to finish. All our customers are in capable hands, and you can rest assured that the team always go the extra mile to make everything perfect.

The Traditional Music and Song Association Annual Festival in Keith will kick off on Friday the 14th June

Keith will once again be alive with the sound of traditional music and song. From the structured organised concerts and competitions to the informal impromptu music in various venues around the town, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

An amazing line up of guest artistes are once again coming along to entertain across the weekend: - Malinky, Amy Papiransky, Scott Gardiner, Ian Thomson Scottish Dance Band, Mayfield Group, Allan Taylor, Gordon Menzies, Geordie Murison, The Quiggs, Paddy Buchanan, Finn

Hope Scottish Dance Band, Davie Anderson, Irene Watt and Graeme Whyte to name but a few. I am sure there are many names there you recognise and maybe some not so well known but I know, all will contribute to a most entertaining festival weekend.

Friday night kicks off with a choice of either dancing to the Ian Thomson Scottish Dance Band in the Royal British Legion or you may prefer The Bothy Ballads and Ither Sangs in the Plough Inn Lounge with festival guests. Both events are at 8pm

Amy Papiransky

You have a choice to make again on Saturday at 8pm. Will it be the Royal Hotel with headliners Malinky and other guests, or the Bowling Club, with an array of talented festival guest performers.

Malinky

Gordon Menzies

As always competitions will be held during the morning and afternoon on Saturday at various venues. There will also be music sessions at numerous venues including from the top of the street, Shears, Plough Inn, The Deli Shop, The Railway Club, Royal Hotel, Bowling Club and Boogie Woogie, throughout the weekend.

Checkout the posters and Facebook for the full details.

The Bairns Ceilidh, where young or young at heart, are encouraged to come and participate or just listen will be held in the Bowling Club at 1pm Sunday.

And at 1pm, weather permitting, the very popular open-air concert will take place in Reidhaven Square (contingence plan for the Royal Hotel if the weather disappoints)

The Chorus Quaich competition will take place late afternoon in the Plough Inn lounge.

Finishing off the weekend, the traditional Farewell Concert will be at 7-30pm in the Royal Hotel, at the end of what will have been, I’m sure, another successful weekend of music and song.

Tickets will be available from from Mither Tongue, 165 Mid Street Keith or by contacting Sandy McCombie – 07740 173436.

Very sad news received as we went to print. The true stalwart, legend and dearest friend of the TMSA passed away. Joe Aitken will be sorely missed and this year’s festival won’t be the same.

Chorus Quaich

The Quiggs

Royal Hotel

Joe Aitken

RIP Joe

FORTY WINKS - KEITH

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Carpets, rugs and flooring from Lifestyle and Likewise.

Extensive range to choose from why not drop in today for a look!

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Large stock of Beds and Mattresses, Mobility Rise and Recline Chairs, Pictures and Gift Ware all available for immediate delivery. FREE DELIVERY • WITHIN A 60 MILE RADIUS OPENING TIMES

Jay, Blair, Callum and Flynn – The Acrylics –a band, formed during lockdown, that has gone from strength to strength. Friends since schooldays, they have honed their skills to such an extent that they have supported bands such as Definitely Oasis and Forgetting the Future.

It is now time for them to have their own gig and this time it is in the Elgin Town Hall on May 31st. It is to be their biggest gig to date, thus fulfilling a dream held since they started out in 2020. Elgin is a great venue with enthusiastic staff and appreciative audiences and it has been their aim to play here since they supported the Complete Stone Roses in November last year.

They have two support bands as well; local musicians who are making their mark on the music scene and the band cannot wait to share

the stage with them. With new material it promises to be the best Acrylics gig to date.

This is a wonderful opportunity for them so please go along and support them. After all, no audience, no performers - and every local musician deserves local support.

BOOK NOW FOR THE FOLLOWING UPCOMING EVENTS

7TH APRIL

Simon & Garfunkel Through the Years

12TH APRIL

Bingo Mania

25TH & 26TH APRIL

Skerryvore

27TH APRIL

The Johnny Cash Roadshow

18TH MAY

Declan Nerney

31ST MAY

The Acrylics, Cask & Boys Should Learn

1ST JUNE

Brandon McPhee Show with band

7TH JUNE

McFleetwood (Fleetwood Mac Tribute)

Declan Nerney

Skerryvore

Why is hypnobirthing a life changing investment?

By Sophia Hanson

It’s 100 per cent normal for people to assume that birth preparation is purely about the ‘what will happen during labour and how to manage it.’

The reality is that that’s only the tip of the iceberg, and if I tried to tell everyone what it’s really about in an initial conversation they’d be overwhelmed and probably run away.

There is more than one way to teach hypnobirthing classes; if your teacher is a brilliant one, she’ll be teaching from a place of expertise and life experience and won’t be banging on about her own amazing or traumatic birth all the time.

A brilliant teacher will find relevant examples that bring the teachings to life for you, and she’ll help you find ways to integrate them short and long term.

Hypnobirthing classes will always include: Understanding how your body works.

Learning how to use the body-mind connection to support you.

Learning and practising breathing techniques.

Hypnobirthing is life changing when it also covers:

How to advocate for you and your rights.

What to do when you feel like you’re out of control.

Questions to ask care givers to support you and your baby.

How to get the support you really need from your partner.

Recognising how you can optimise your own strengths.

Finding ways to overcome or navigate your personal weaknesses.

The ways in which your life will change once your baby is here.

The importance of self-care and planning.

Understanding how much power you have on a day to day basis.

Accepting full responsibility for yourself and not just ‘falling into line’.

Getting comfortable with making hard decisions.

You can use hypnobirthing for every type of birth. If you are induced, have a c-section or have an assisted delivery (forceps or ventouse) the skills and techniques that you learn will support you.

Look at it this way; your whole life is guaranteed to change once you have a baby, hypnobirthing supports you to be clear about your birth preferences and set yourself up for a positive parenting experience.

There’s so much more to it than ‘how the baby is going to get out of there.”

The power of listening and peer support in action… Sandra’s Story

“Hello, my name is Sandra I regularly attend Moray Wellbeing Hub drop in for wellbeing with my little dog Dusty.

Wellbeing to me means feeling neutral. Neither feeling high or low just neutral to cope with life, I was hopeful of finding tools to support me by attending the drop-in sessions.

I have mixed with others who are like me, not those who don’t understand I have challenges. The information I have been given by MWH is the most useful I have received yet. I utilise some of the support options available locally as well as support groups run by telephone. I wouldn’t have done this before. This keeps me safe.

The support I have received so far has been unbelievable. I can say anything without judgement, I won’t be criticized for feeling anything.

I have also been supported to try more digital tools for my wellbeing. I look forward to being more digitally included, to have my mind on something fun with people who have helped me the most. I look forward to having a go at more activities online.

Being digital is a must these days, banking and paying bills is often preferred so I need to be confident using these things. Facebook is something that I do use, it can be a little soul destroying at times with the things that pop up I

never asked to see but it’s also great. I facetime with my son, my grandchildren and those who I trust. I can now use my online calendar with the support I have received from Becca. I am enjoying building confidence with this, albeit slow progress, I am getting there.”

Join Moray Wellbeing Hub at a free, weekly drop-in for wellbeing. No need to book just pop along on the day and let’s see how we can support you:

Forres Medical Centre, every Monday 10am -12noon

Bow Café, Elgin, every Tuesday 9.30am -11.30am

Buckie Community Hub, every Tuesday 1pm -2.30pm

We are people with our own experiences of life challenges and we look forward to chatting with you.

We have a themed, online group running every 2 weeks Choose from the topic you’re passionate about. The space is held by a skilled facilitator who will support you to share ideas and actions. . This is an exciting opportunity for anyone with lived experience to influence change Join the next Action Group and share your lived experiene, connect with peers and create change in Moray! Challenging Stigma and Discrimination

Entry Dates: SOSWF 29TH APRIL | Phil & Aly, Gordon Castle And MBW 11TH MAY and Simpsons Garden Centre 26TH MAY •

The clocks have moved forward, it’s supposed to be spring. The weather as I write this is pretty horrendous, but it can only get better.

We have all the better days ahead, hopefully for all the events anyway. The organisers have kindly offered prizes to allow you, my readers, to go along and enjoy a number of these events that are coming up, but for the first few you will have to be quick. You won’t get the usual two month to enter these ones as they are happening soon.

Firstly, we have the fantastic Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival Opening Ceilidh on Friday 3rd May. Last year’s winners had a great night, I’m sure they will be entering again.

COMPETITION CODES

WHISKYCEILIDH

2 TICKETS FOR SOSWF CEILIDH

PHILALYTMSA

2 TICKETS FOR PHIL & ALY CONCERT

CASTLEGAMES

Email: competitions@lifestylemoray.scot

Two tickets are up for grabs for the wonderful Phil and Aly, playing in the Longmore Community Hall, Keith on the 18th May

A family ticket for the Gordon Castle Highland Games is the next prize, which I’m sure will be much sought after, as it’s a great day out.

Simpsons Garden Centre have offered a £25 voucher which I’m sure, after all their gardening tips, you will have plenty you want to go and stock up with.

Calling all Moray Business Women for this one, enter and you may receive your ticket free to attend this fabulous conference on the 22nd May

Please note the early closing dates above for each competition, or you may be too late.

As always, please remember a contact number so I can get your prize to you asap.

FAMILY TICKET FOR GORDON CASTLE GAMES

SIMPSONSVOUCH

£25 VOUCHER SIMPSONS GARDEN CENTRE

MBWCONF

MBW CONFERENCE ENTRY TICKET

Email

Remember your competition codes and please send multiple entries on one card. Terms

Congratulations to our Feb/March winners.

We receive hundreds of responses and love your letters and emails... Keep ‘em coming. Who knows... It could be you next time.

We will help you choose the right caravan for your needs and can also check that your vehicle is suitable for towing using NCC TowCheck. Tow bars supplied and fitted / Wide range of accessories in-store