The
FREE!
Fountain A Community Magazine for Aboyne
Issue 19 Winter 2019
STRACHAN’S Serving Royal Deeside for Four Generations
Newsagents Hardware Confectionery
Balloons & Party Gifts
Wines & Spirits
Paints
Lottery
Haberdashery
Stationery
Grocery Malt Whiskies Pet Foods Calor Gas Delicatessen
Toys and Puzzles
450+ Whiskies and 100+ Gins in stock, including Deeside’s own eeNoo Gin Fireworks in stock from December 26 to 31 – Aboyne store only
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all the staff at Strachan’s Aboyne and Ballater
By appointment to HM The Queen General Merchants
Main St Aboyne AB34 5HT 013398 86121
2 Golf Rd Ballater AB35 5RE 013397 755452
www.georgestrachanltd.com
By appointment to HRH The Prince of Wales General Merchants
Want in The Fountain?
For adver�sing and editorial, please note the copy deadlines below and use the contacts listed at the bo�om of the page DEADLINES . FEB 1 . MAY 1 . AUG 1 . NOV 1 PUBLISHED MAR JUNE SEPT DEC
Contents News/Groups Santa Dash #2 Arts For All Citizens Advice Climate Actions White Cottage In Lady V’s Shoes Councillors’ Contacts No Sweat? Club Directory Advertisers’ Index Ad Rates/Copy Dates
5> 7 11 12 15 18 23 24 30 32 34 34
Welcome to Issue 19 of The Fountain I hope you are all keeping warm and well this winter. Green issues are certainly burning at the moment and you can read all about who’s doing what in the local area to save the planet on p15. Business is booming with several new advertisers across all three Myriad Pro magazines this quarter; on p18 we have a special feature on a nearby restaurateur who does not want to be forgotten in the rush of life... Lady V raises a cheer for our local library (hear hear!) and we get all festive with a look forward to the second Santa Dash (an event that has now caught on in Banchory too!). Those in fine voice can find out where to sing your heart out at the village’s annual carol events. Thank you and season’s greetings to all our advertisers. Interested in advertising your business? You can find details and ad prices inside the back page. I am grateful too to anyone who contributed copy about their group, organisation or event. Remember that community information is FREE to include, so if you have any news, tell me about it. Cat Houston – Design/Editor
get in touch via email to catrionahouston@yahoo.co.uk
or call Cat on 013397 55243 www.myriadpro.co.uk find us on facebook
Do you have something to share? Group or individual, let The Fountain know what you are up to, using the contacts on p3 and 34.
Men’s Shed represents first new venue for 40 years The Aboyne Men’s Shed committee was delighted to get stuck in to building what will be the Aboyne and Mid Deeside Community Shed. A ground-breaking ceremony was held in October on the new construction site along Aboyne Stone Circle off Ballater Road. The ceremony was undertaken by Amy Anderson, representing NHS Grampian Endowment Trust, and Eric Sinclair former NHS Grampian Board Member with local supporters, benefactors and AMS Trustees. The build schedule is to complete phase 1, a wind and water-tight serviced structure by the end of the year, allowing occupancy for phase 2 fit out to commence January 2020 with a target of completion mid-2020. After exhaustive searches in 2016 for an existing building proved fruitless, the decision was made to take up the offer of a site provided by Aboyne Castle Estate for a new-build project. The two-storey building now under construction has a footprint of 10m by 18m and will include ground-floor workshops and an upper-level mixed-use social area. Efforts have been made to achieve a low carbon design with high levels of insulation, heat pumps and 12kw solar PV arrays. As the design developed, the committee recognised that, while still serving as a Men’s Shed, the building could be made available for other user groups, thereby providing a venue that did not currently exist in the Aboyne/MidDeeside community – the first such development in around 40 years. It was thus decided to rebrand the project the “Aboyne and Mid Deeside Community Shed”. The total project cost is estimated at £330,000, with phase 1 costing £270,000 and phase 2 £60,000, for which further funding is required. While many funding sources have contributed, recognition is given to the major funder, the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, who have committed to provide over £186,000, contributions of over £20,000 from local benefectors and very generous pro bono support demonstrating local area involvement. Anyone wishing to contribute funds can do so via the crowd-funding website: www.wonderful.org/appeal/closingthegapmainbuildthefinal6-04fdd640. For further information contact info@aboynemensshed.org.uk
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Season Greetings
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Second Santa Dash!
7 The second Aboyne Santa Dash takes place on Sunday December 15th at 1pm on Aboyne Green. This festive family fun run is one not to be missed as you can dash, skip or stroll one or two laps of their 1.5km course and new for 2019 is a Mini Dash for under-5s. Catch the Turkey Runner to win a Sheridan’s Turkey Prize; there’s a fun mass musical warm-up and a raffle and refreshments (one of last year’s offerings is pictured on our front cover!) Cost to take part in the spectacle is £7.50 for adults and £5 for children 5+, Mini Dashers, £4. This includes your own Santa suit to keep or you can pay just £3 to run in your own festive ou�it. All proceeds to Aboyne Primary School and Nursery Parent Council. Sign up on their Facebook page: AboyneSantaDash. Supported by TaxAssist Accountants. Go on, you know you want to...
Belwade Farm
Merry Christmas from all the staff and ponies at Belwade Farm!
We will be closed from Monday 23rd December until Wednesday 8th January
World Horse Welfare Belwade Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre Dess, Aboyne, AB34 5BJ
www.worldhorsewelfare.org Registered charity no: 206658 and SC038384
CRAIGIEVAR GARDENERS Garden design Garden maintenance Landscaping David 07759 977387 019755 81278 Wendy 07831 440848 019756 41778 wendysimpson@hotmail.co.uk
YOGA CLASSES
For HEALTH, VITALITY & WELLBEING Postures to improve overall Strength, Flexibility & Mobility
Class concludes with Breath Awareness and a Deep Restorative Relaxation
These courses are suitable for all levels Men & Women
Beginners are always very welcome
Nomads Rule
Over 30 invited guests enjoyed the launch of The Nomads Tent exhibition in Kincardine Castle in November, when funds were raised for the Scottish charity Children 1st. This was the Nomads Tent Roadshow’s third year at Kincardine Castle. The last Pop-up Restaurant of the year will take place on December 6th, serving lunch and afternoon tea, and spaces are selling fast for the Christmas lunches on December 14/15th. The Pop-up Restaurant returns in 2020 on February 7th.
Pot Luck Lunch?
The Pot Luck Lunch event, which aims to tackle food waste and at the same time bring folk together for a free lunch, is expected to return to Aboyne on Saturday December 28th. Look out for posters and on social media.
THE HALL ON THE GREEN, ABOYNE TUESDAY @ 18:30 – 20:00
THURSDAY @ 10:00 – 11:30 SATURDAY @ 11:00- 12:30
£39 x 6 block classes/£8.50 drop-in
PLEASE BRING A YOGA MAT & BLANKET
WEAR LOOSE COMFORTABLE CLOTHING Contact: Brenda (BSY) to reserve a place
013398 83628/07958 194647/brendatwigger@yahoo.com
A community noticeboard similar to this one is expected be in place in Aboyne by January to keep residents and visitors up to date with the latest information and details of community events.
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Carol Singing
Aboyne-Dinnet Church has planned a number of Christmas celebrations. Please take a look at the full programme to see what is available. Here are some events that are worth a special mention. On Saturday December 14 their annual Carol Singing will take place in the village. You can join in at some or all of the locations according to your availability. There will be plenty of carol sheets to pass around. The timetable is as follows: Allachburn 2pm, Aboyne Hospital 2.45, Bonty Court 3.15, Christmas Tree on Station Square 3.45 and Co-op at 4pm. All times are approximate. Those who love carol singing will also be able to join in at the Boat Inn for Candlelit Community Carolling on Thursday, 19 December at 8pm. Everyone is most welcome at all services and events.
Oil Heating Services Martin Conn Boiler Servicing & Repairs
07733 227669 oilheating@engineer.com
Based in Ballater
Art Club to Exhibit Community centre event to display kids’ creations
Aboyne Art Club is having an art exhibition at the Community Centre during the week beginning 16th December. All the clay busts and mod roc sculptures the children have been working on will be on display. Everyone is invited to go and have a look and a ‘meet the artists’ session is planned for Saturday December 21st. The Art Club is run by local artist Stephanie Vandem for children aged 7 and above and takes place Saturdays 10.3011.30am at the Community Centre. For more information contact 07714 422321 or info@stephanievandem.com
Classes for Adults Too
Stephanie Vandem is also offering adults the chance to have a go at lifedrawing and/or modelling this winter. Working from a model, you can explore basic proportions, relevant anatomy, how to use clay and tools and step-by-step learn how to model the figure. You can draw or model with clay, or both. The classes are taking place at Deeside Community Centre, Aboyne, on three dates: December 14th and January 11th and 12th, from 11:30-3:30pm. Cost is £65 per day, including all materials and tools. Bookings can be made for any of the three dates. Suitable for absolute beginners to very advanced students. For bookings use the contacts in opposite column. A great Christmas present to give as a finished product or as a voucher to attend the class!
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Energy Advice Are you worried about your energy bills, needing advice on how to save money and how to keep warm? Whatever the energy issue, we can offer information and guidance on a range of energy issues: • Get better energy deals + save money • How to switch energy supplier or tariff • How to complain about your bill • Guidance on home energy efficiency • Advice on grants and benefits available to help you pay your energy bills The South West Aberdeenshire Citizens Advice Bureau is a charity based in Westhill, with offices in Banchory and Aboyne, and outreach services throughout the area. We provide free support, information, advocacy and representation to hundreds of people through confidential advice provided by trained advisers and volunteers. We have to raise every penny of funds to provide this service. However, many consultations are being wasted because clients fail to show up to their appointments. Each hourly appointment costs us £97, with as many as 50% “no-shows” in a day. When we have a “no-show”, someone else who may have a serious problem misses out, as that slot can’t be filled at short notice. Cancelling appointments in good time allows our advisers to see other clients who otherwise need to wait for up to three weeks to receive advice. As an independent charity, we rely heavily on volunteers, grants and donations to keep our operation running and we are facing an unprecedented funding challenge. If we are to continue being able to provide critical services to the community, we urge clients to contact us by phone or email if they are unable to attend an appointment, with as much notice as possible.
Three useful tips for winter from your local Community Safety Group: At times there are no pavements, so, if you have to walk on the road, wear something so that you can be seen at night. Reflective strips can be purchased online and at your local bicycle shop. Did you know that home trampolines cause about 100,000 injuries every year and nearly 93% of fractures in children under 16 are related to trampolines? However, even when not in use, trampolines can cause havoc if they are not firmly tied down, especially in windy weather. New Year celebrations often involve fireworks. It is much safer (and cheaper!) to go to a public display than do your own. Alcohol and lighting fireworks do not mix. For more information about your local Community Safety Group go to www. aberdeenshirecommunitysafety.org.uk and go to the South Marr page.
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Grass Cutting inc Removal of Cuttings/Debris Lawn Scarifying Strimming and Cutting of Overgrown Areas Hedge Trimming and Cutting Weed Control – fully qualified to apply pesticides Tree Work
Fully Insured . Free Estimates
07789 867950 . smartgardensaboyne@gmx.co.uk
Climate Actions There are a number of groups in the area getting like-minded people together to tackle Climate Change. Get involved. Aboyne Climate Group is a new group who will be hosting a series of bi-monthly talks at Aboyne Bowling Club Hut: Feb 5th: Soils: carbon sinks to farm land April 1st: Local weather, water and waste They also have two devices monitoring the village’s air quality, which can be viewed online. www.aboyneclimate.org.uk
Aboyne will be getting a new Zero Waste shop in the New Year. The Happy Bee Pantry will open within Tangletree Studio in Station Square, with the help of a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo. The shop looks to bring locally grown fruit and veg, freshly baked goodies and of course all your refill needs for food, cleaning and beauty products. For more info pop into the shop or visit them on Facebook. Check online for upcoming dates
CROMAR CLIMATE FUTURES
‐ understanding the local impacts of global change in our area • •
A four‐part winter discussion series with the local community led by internationally recognised experts Each discussion focuses on a different aspect of how climate change might affect us locally
1: “CLIMATE CHANGE AND LOCAL LAND USE ‐ Deeside CAN is a group of people living from global to local impacts” on Deeside who want to do something to Thursday 21st. November, 7.30 pm minimiseMacRobert climateHall, Tarland, AB34 4YL change, reduce waste and decrease the loss of biodiversity. Speaker : Dr Mike Rivington : Land Use Systems Modeller Tarland Climate Crisis Group is a group ofIn this first session of the series, Mike will: concerned people wanting to take • discuss the overall global perspective for climate change in the action on the climate crisis. coming decades, and • show how our local area could be affected and what the consequences might be for local land use.
Aboyne Kids 4 Climate Action aims to raise awareness of climate change through organised strikes and informative events in Aboyne. Find them on Facebook.
With over 20 years of experience in the field, Mike has contributed to the 3rd US National Climate Assessment, to the UN Environment Programme and the Global Food Security Programme. Come and ask your questions on how climate change might affect you. Entry is free. Tea and coffee will be available before the talk. More information from matt.hare@hutton.ac.uk or from the Cromar Future Group info@futuregroup.org.uk
You may have noticed areas of wildflowers popping up across Deeside and Aberdeenshire during the summer. This is part of a project by Aberdeenshire Council that aims to extend and improve green spaces and biodiversity. The work involves changing some grassy areas that are currently regularly cut back, while adding more natural spaces with increased tree planting, woodland areas and wildflower meadows. Greenspace Projects Officers Matthew Watt and Tajana Telisman Sosic are leading the work, which will cover the whole of Aberdeenshire. Anybody interested in becoming involved with a project local to their area should get in touch with the Greenspace team.
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Some useful apps from the Marr Community Bulletin
The OS Locate app converts GPS location readings from your mobile phone to Ordnance Survey National Grid references, enabling you to determine precisely where you are on an Ordnance Survey map. No mobile signal? No problem; OS Locate does not require a mobile signal to function – the inbuilt GPS system can be relied upon, even in the most remote areas. what3words has divided the globe into 3m squares and given each one a unique 3 word address, made of three words from the dictionary. It means everywhere can be located with just three words. For example, the front door to what3words’ London office can be found at ///filled. count.soap. Prevent Suicide North-East Scotland is a suicide prevention app and website aimed at users in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire. It provides helpful info for those affected in any way by suicide, extensive contact details for services in Aberdeen city and Aberdeenshire as well as providing users with the ability to create their own safety plan. The app is a way of allowing people to gain knowledge of suicide prevention without having to directly engage with mental health services which many people shy away from.
The Fairmer Wants A Wife... in Tarland
The next production by the Tarland Amateur Dramatic Society (TADS) will be Scottish romanic comedy, The Fairmer wants a Wife. Set in 1822, the cast have been working on learning their lines since September. The group, who last year wowed audiences with The Wizard of Oz, will be treading the boards on Friday 31st January and Saturday 1st February 2020 in the MacRobert Memorial Hall, Tarland. Anyone who is interested in helping them out with costumes, set etc is urged to get in touch. You can follow their antics on Facebook @TarlandDramaSociety.
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www.theboatinnaboyne.co.uk
No need to hibernate this winter! We’ve got lots of exciting events coming up to keep you entertained during the cold nights and build up to Christmas with a sprinkle of Festive Spirit! 9th November
8pm | Live Music from “Long Train” | Free Entry
5th December
7.30pm | Esker Gin Tasting | Tickets £10 per person A chance to grab the perfect gift for a Gin fanatic!
14th December
9pm | Christmassoke Sing yourself into the Festive Spirit
19th December
8pm | Candlelit Carol Singing Complimentary Mince Pies and Mulled Wine
31st December
The Boat Inn “BEST” Hogmanay Party Tickets £20 Adults | £5 Children Riverside Fireworks | Piper | Magician | Disco Complimentary Fizz
For tickets and Information: enquiries@theboatinnaboyne.co.uk
| 013398 86137
I’m still here, says White Co�age’s John... After a short period of closure due to illness, the White Co�age’s John Inches wishes it to be known that he is back in the saddle and ready to provide a host of delicious meals for all, sit in or take-away, at the picturesque Cairnwell site. Following on from the success of the trusted White Cottage brand, he is now specialising in traditional homemade and freshly baked sourdough pizza, as well as back-by-popular-demand fish and chips, and homemade curries. The established roadside establishment also makes its own old-fashioned ice cream (in 12 flavours), while the new Country Shop stocks luxury confectionery, pix’n’mix, delicious homemade bakes and cakes by Mrs Rattenbury, along with fabulous homemade White Cottage pickles, jams, meringues and fudge. Pizza types to tempt you include the classic Margherita, Carne Picanti, Pollo and Vegetarian. His all-day menu, which also includes a number of fish and chicken dishes, macaroni cheese and a daily house special, is available Friday to Sunday between 12pm and 7pm. The restaurant is not licensed, but you are welcome to bring your own favourite tipple, for a small glass charge.
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The White Cottage is also continuing to provide home-cooked dishes sold frozen in easy-to-reheat packs. A selection is always available in the shop freezer and they are perfect for midweek lunches and suppers or to take the work out of weekend entertaining. There’s a wide range to choose from, including soups, fish, chicken, lamb, duck, pork, beef, game and vegetarian options. Take your pick from Salmon and Asparagus Gratin, Coq Au Vin, Rich Shepherds’ Pie, Steak and Stout Casserole, Veal Shin or Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto, to name but a few... If you wish to order some freezer meals, then just call and speak to John with any special requirements. Even if you fancy something that isn’t on the menu, just ask John and he will endeavour to accommodate your culinary desires or dietary requirements! Your order can be provided ‘fresh to go’ or frozen. There is a 10% discount on orders over £200 and large orders can also be delivered on request. Three days’ notice is required on any order. All foods and goods are locally sourced and freshly prepared with no additives. See The White Cottage’s main website for the full menu and prices: www.whitecottageaboyne.com
10% off your dining bill on production of this Voucher
Valid for sit-in meals only until January 31st 2020 Voucher Code: MPMagsWin19
John’s Kitchen + Country Shop Home-cooked Lunches + Suppers Sit-in or Takeaway Fish & (To Die For) Chips Sourdough Pizzas Authentic Curries Frozen Ready Meals Antique and Gift Shop Open Friday to Sunday, 12-7pm Cairnwell, nr Aboyne AB31 5BP (A93) 07710 410358
Group Focus:
Fed up with ploughing through mud and brambles on your local walk? Wishing there was a track to link up your regular cycling or horseriding route? Aboyne Paths and Tracks Group is a newly formed organisation aiming to maintain, develop and promote Mid Deeside’s paths and tracks for the use of local people and visitors. The group was founded as a response to issues highlighted in the 2018 Mid Deeside Community Action Plan. Public responses raised concerns about lack of signposting and information about local paths, missing links in local paths such as the Deeside
Way and links with other areas, as well as the general condition and accessibility of paths. As an initial project the group is planning to produce a map of the existing main paths within the working area. This will be used to assist in surveying routes and producing a walks leaflet for local people and visitors. Funding for this project has been secured through Scotways which will be matched by APTG fundraising, with the objective of producing a leaflet ready for distribution in April 2020. Meanwhile a constituted group has been formed under the umbrella of Mid Deeside Community Trust and group members have been busy surveying paths, liaising with Aberdeenshire Council and meeting with local landowners. Noticed improvements to the Deeside way ramp at the Aboyne Victory Hall? In October 17 people attended a Paths Maintenance course, using this section of the Deeside Way as a training project. Look out for more improvements to your local paths! Want to help out or get in touch? Contact us on: aboynepaths@ gmail.com
20 “Maintaining, developing and promoting Mid Deeside’s paths and tracks”
years 30we’ve on...
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Fraser Taxi
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Garden Maintenance Grass Cutting, Lawn care, Hedge Cutting, Shrub Pruning, Weeding and more!
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Albert Einstein said: “The only thing you absolutely have to know is the location of the library.” I completely agree with him on this - where else can you easily escape into a world of fantasy, read the memoirs from the mind of a president and find the explanation of how birds can fly all in one place. Ok, so, yes you could google it, but where is the fun in that?! Also, a book won’t suddenly decide to run out of battery mid read (as my iPad is close to doing right now). Luckily for me, the location of the Aboyne library is a mere hop, skip and a jump away. My kids and I can spend hours in there. They become mesmerised by the huge array of picture books on every subject and I become equally mesmerised by the mouth watering selection of cookery books available (my current favourites are the Hummingbird Bakery and Deliciously Ella With Friends). Just as much, if not more than cookery books, I love getting stuck into a good novel. I do tend to try and read seasonal books at this time of year in order to fully embrace the festive spirit - As the days become shorter and colder you simply can’t go wrong with a Christmas classic while curled up in front of the fire, preferably under a blanket with a steaming mug of cocoa (...or a mulled wine). Last year I thoroughly enjoyed the slightly darker twist on Dickens’ A Christmas Carol named Christmas Spirits by Whitley Strieber. I look forward to finding more recommendations from the Librarians this year. This is not to say however that the library is all just books and
in
Lady V’s Shoes
A column on village life from Victoria Kennedy Shh-ing. It is a real social hub within the village. Monthly and weekly events are run from the library, including a poetry club and a women’s health club. When my children were younger we were regulars at the Tuesday morning Book Bug sessions - sessions that are still running today. Now we will often come along to the craft classes that run over the holidays (we made a beautiful paper owl most recently) and are regulars at Lego Club on a Tuesday afternoon. I find it so special to see my children, now 4 and 6, so happy and confident in the library. The librarians themselves are all to thank for that. They are so patient, kind and helpful (with me as well as the kids) and will always endeavour to answer any questions asked and source any books requested. In my book (no pun intended), they are true heroes! Thank you, ladies. For more news and events from the library, check out their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ AboyneLibraryAberdeenshire
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Councillors'
Contacts
Cllr Peter Argyle
01339 882973 07801 900843 cllr.p.argyle@ aberdeenshire.gov.uk
These are your Ward 15 councillors
Cllr Geva Blacke�
01339 741541 07876 475269 cllr.g.blacke�@ aberdeenshire.gov.uk
New Chair for MDCT
Alan Emslie was elected as Chairman of the Mid Deeside Community Trust at the end of October. MDCT is a community-led charity whose core activities are Community Transport, Community Woodlands, Health & Wellbeing and Community Projects.
Cllr Paul Gibb 07388 956148 cllr.p.gibb@ aberdeenshire.gov.uk
This is your MP and MSP
W����������
Andrew Bowie MP 0207 219 2791 andrew.bowie.mp @parliament.uk
S������� P���������
...meets in Aboyne Scout Hut from 7-9pm on the fourth Monday of every month (exc July and Dec). Public welcome.
Alexander Burne� MSP 0131 348 5642 Alexander.Burnett.msp @parliament.scot
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Dinnet, Aberdeenshire
Hot Tubs for your home and business Our luxurious hot tubs are hand-crafted in the USA and are a perfect combination of quality and affordability. Do you have a holiday home? We have models designed specifically for the hospitality industry that come with a full commercial warranty.
www.highlandglenspas.co.uk
Phone. 013398 80540
Established 1998
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t: 013398 80448 m: 07766 176 186 e: jay@speedwellframing.co.uk Inchmarnoch Dinnet Aboyne AB34 5NX
All aspects of landscaping Mini digger and small tipper hire Firewood also available James Anderson Bridgefoot, Glenmuick, Ballater 013397 55997 / 07821 746756 weejim03@live.co.uk www.weejim.com
Tornaveen Plumbing
Time served plumber Can’t get anyone to do those small jobs? Tap washers, cleaning and repairing gutters, drains etc. Reasonable rates No VAT
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Cromar
History Group
Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action (AVA) has been hosting regular Drop-In Surgeries for organisations and groups in your area. Development Officer Aileen Longino, started offering the drop-ins in November and will continue them into the new year. The events are free and you can turn up or email aileen.longino@avashire.org.uk. Aileen can give advice and support on funding, recruiting and retaining volunteers, governance, setting up a new group, business planning and marketing amongst other things. Here are January’s dates: Tuesday 7th January 10-12 The Bothy, Braemar 12.30-2.30 The Bothy, Ballater Wednesday 8th January 10-12 Platform 22, Torphins 12.30-2.30 Aboyne Library
Tarland Film Group runs every first Thursday of the month until June 2020. Films are screened in the Upper MacRobert Hall at 8pm, with free refreshments available from 7.30pm. Annual membership is £12 and guests for single film evenings are very welcome at a suggested donation of £3. Members choose the films. To join email tarlandfilmgroup@hotmail.co.uk or just turn up to a film event.
Cromar History Group talks are open to all and are held in the MacRobert Hall, Tarland, beginning at 7.30pm. Entry is £4. Coffee, tea and biscuits available from 7pm. The MacRobert Hall now has an Induction Loop System for hearing aid users. 9th January 2020: Following the Drovers Fred Gordon will take us on a journey following the cattle drovers through Highland Scotland. They came from Skye, Sutherland, Moray, Aberdeen and beyond and travelled to the cattle markets in Falkirk. This is a glimpse of their world and its echoes in today’s landscape. 13th February 2020: The Three Incarnations – what should we make of the bothy ballads? Champion ballad singer Shona Donaldson will consider the three eras of bothy ballad tradition – the older bothy ballads, the cornkisters, and the new bothy ballads of the current generation. 12th March 2020: “Lonach” and the wider history of Sco�sh Highland Games Graham Thomson will give us a brief summary of the history and objectives of the Lonach Highland and Friendly Society and the Lonach Highland Games, which date back to the 1820s. He will look at the prominent people in the foundation of the Society and the wider history of Highland Games in Scotland, with a few light-hearted stories and poems along the way. 9th April 2020: Something Corny Elaine Lindsay keeps alive the old rural craft skill of fashioning decorations from straw. Her talk and demonstration will cover traditional straw work and the stories behind it, including corn dollies, the straw hat industry and straw marquetry. She will also show how straw work is continuing into the future. www.cromarhistorygroup.org.uk
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Epic offroad e-bike adventures in the heart of Royal Deeside & the Cairngorms… Full day and half day guiding for up to 6 persons. e-bike hire available or bring your own. Book your trip today!
Based in Aboyne, Aberdeenshire,gateway to the wilds of Scotland
T +44 (0) 7794 695 077 E info@eguidescotland.com
www.eguidescotland.com
Our CHSS Charity Boutique in Banchory has been part of the Deeside Community since 2011. At our store on Bridge Street we love for our shoppers to explore the amazing variety and everchanging stock of women’s and men’s clothing and accessories, books, CDs and other memorabilia. We rely, of course, on the amazing donations that come over our door and are always seeking as many good quality donations as possible to continue to keep up with demand! The world of charity work is extremely rewarding and Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland play such an important part in ensuring everyone has the right to live life to the full. Our ‘No Life Half Lived’ campaign supports people after a diagnosis of a chest or heart condition or a stroke, and provides care and support to ensure everyone can live the life they want to. The sales we make from our Charity Boutique go towards this amazing mission and we need your support! We are currently recruiting volunteers. Among the things we can offer are working in a great atmosphere, seeing our stock first hand, learning a new skill such as sales, stock control, customer service (it’s a great introduction to the world of retail!), making new friends and opening up a world of experiences and possibilities. If you could spare a few hours or a day a week to come and join our great team and enjoy what we have to offer, or if you have quality donations but cannot make it to the store, then please contact the new Store Manager Tina Boyes for any information on 01330 823213 or pop in for a visit! For more information on what we do visit our web page Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland.
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No Sweat? The story behind Lumphanan’s Detox 10k
The Lumphanan Community Recreation Association was set up in 2001 as a voluntary initiative to improve the sporting and recreational facilities within the village. Its main objective was to upgrade a derelict tennis court in the village park into a modern all-weather multi-sports court. Fundraising events, a donation from BP and grants from AbCo and MAP raised almost £30k. The team bought the materials required but there was not enough cash to enable them to hand over the project to a ‘professional’ contractor. Instead, a team of dedicated and skilled residents got together and rebuilt the multi-sports court;
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completing the project in late summer 2005. Today the association continues to raise funds through membership, court fees and sponsorship in order to maintain the court and hopes to be able to replace the allweather surface in a few years, ensuring its continuity of availability to the residents of Lumphanan. The Lumphanan Detox 10K is one its main fundraising events and over 4,000 people have participated in the new year race since it started in 2004. This year’s race takes place on Thursday January 2, starting at 11.30am. Registration to enter closes at midnight on Christmas Eve.
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SPECIALIST DETAILING SOLUTIONS & PRODUCTS
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Interior and Exterior Detailing Specialist Paint Correction and Ceramic Coating Free Collection and Delivery within Banchory Fully insured on all Vehicles Payment Plans available Gift Vouchers in store Full range of detailing products in-store or online Trade discounts
DEESIDE’S ONLY 24/7 SELF-SERVE CAR WASH • • • • • •
The best and safest way to clean your car, from £2 Anti-scratch hogs’ hair detailing brushes Flood-lit for night-time washing Large bay for motor-homes and caravans Air, water and vacuum station Change machine for £2 coins Ultra Clean . Burn O Bennie Road . Banchory . Aberdeenshire . AB31 5NN 01330 827018 . 07763 069190 . info@ultraclean.uk.com . www.ultraclean.uk.com Open Mon-Fri 9-5 . Sat 9-1
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Club Directory
This directory is compiled using Aberdeenshire Council’s club information. If you know or discover any of the details to be incorrect, or if you wish to add your club’s details to it, please get in touch. 1st Aboyne Brownies Anne Silcock, District Commissioner 013398 86332 2ndaboynebrownies@gmail.com 1st Aboyne Cubs Bernie Cassie, 013398 85390 bmkh67@yahoo.co.uk 1st Aboyne Scouts Tuesdays 7.30pm-9.30pm (term time) 1staboynescouts@gmail.com Badminton Club Richard Seeber, 013398 89307 rseeber861@gmail.com www.aboynebadminton.org.uk Canoe Club Chris Redmond, 013398 86241 aboynecanoeclub@gmail.com aboynecanoeclub.co.uk/ Cra� Club Kate Borrensen, 07784 888832 kate.borresen.@gmail.com Drop-In Games (young autistic adults) Jenny 07899 977033 jennydurward@yahoo.com Garden Club Jim Campbell, 013398 85511 campbej9@yahoo.co.uk Golf Club Fraser Dunlop, 013398 86328 (Option 1) pro@fraserdunlopgolf.co.uk www.aboynegolfclub.co.uk Judo Club James McBeath, 013398 86049 mjmcbeath@btinternet.com Library Book Group Fiona Robertson, 013398 86004 aboyne.library@aberdeenshire.gov.uk
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Probus Club Eddy Horton aboyne_probus_sec@btinternet.com Rotary Club of Aboyne & U-Deeside John Halkett, 07815 676314 Sco�sh Country Dancing Ruth Housden, 013398 81613 thousden@gotadsl.co.uk Sub Aqua Club Gary Shire, 07443 439453 gary_shire@yahoo.co.uk Sooyang Do Martial Art Colleen McIver, 07889850229 colleen_mciver@msn.com Also in Torphins Tennis Club aboynetennis@gmail.com Twinning Association Maureen Forsyth, 013398 86704 moforsyth@gmail.com Deeside Camera Club David Packer, 01330 822666 davidpacker00@gmail.com www.deesidecameraclub.org/ Deeside Gliding Club Glen Douglas, 013398 85339 office@deesideglidingclub.co.uk www.deesideglidingclub.co.uk Deeside Heritage Society Dr Douglas Riach, 013398 85488 douglas.riach@btinternet.com Aboyne Highland Games Morag McBeath, 013398 86049 morag.mcbeath@btinternet.com Cromar & District Horticultural Society Mrs Jess Gibb, 013398 81277 Cromar Future Group Lesley Ellis, 01339 880062 info@futuregroup.org.uk futuregroup.org.uk/ Cromar History Group Lesley Ellis, 01339 880062 info@cromarhistorygroup.org.uk www.cromarhistorygroup.org.uk Finzean SWI Louise Counsell, 01330 850323 louisecounsell@ymail.com Lumphanan Golf Club Joyce Wilson, 013398 83480 secretary@lumphanangolfclub.co.uk www.lumphanangolfclub.co.uk
Lumphanan Whist Club Irene Thomson, 013398 83365 Tarland Curling Club Lesley Farquharson, 013398 81534 Tarland Golf Club Carole Foreman, 013398 81000 secretary@tarlandgolfclub.co.uk www.tarlandgolfclub.co.uk Tarland Playgroup 013398 81193 tarland.playgroup@gmail.com Upper Deeside Art Society R Mitchell, udasmemsec@btinternet.com
sports Tai Chi Classes in Aboyne, Ballater and Banchory www.taichiaberdeenshire. co.uk Stroke Group Monday mornings in the Auld Kirk Hall Eric Sinclair, 07442 502574 Breas�eeding Group Community Room in Deeside Community Centre, Aboyne, Mon 10am-11.30am. Art Club (7+) Saturdays 10.30-11.30am Community Centre info@stephanievandem. com 07714422321 AVA Aileen Longino, Development Officer 07824 096531 aileen.longino@avashire. org.uk
Tuesday Stravaigers (Walks) Anne Heath, 013398 81558 abheath@hotmail.com Boulers o’ Birse Petanque Club Info.boulersobirse@gmail.com Saturdays 1012, Birse & Feughside Church, Finzean. Tues evenings from 18:30 in summer. Swimming Upper Deeside Amateur Swimming Club Richard Smout 07494 455196, richard. smout58@gmail.com; Alan MacLeod udasc. treasurer@icloud.com
culture
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DEADLINES . FEB 1 . MAY 1 . AUG 1 . NOV 1 PUBLISHED MAR JUNE SEPT DEC Advertising space is also available in our Alford publication, The BULLetin, and The Fly, covering Banchory FREE!
Issue 13, Spring 2019
A Community Magazine for Alford
The Banchory Fly fly: [adjective] to partake in a small unplanned break wth refreshment, often with friends or colleagues; particular to Aberdeenshire, UK
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The Commercial THE SQUARE . TARLAND .................................................... BOOK NOW for the FESTIVE PERIOD Christmas Menu Now Available
Our festive menu is available from December 11th to 24th, so whether you’re entertaining friends, getting together with family or colleagues, or simply need to take time out from the seasonal stresses, join us at The Cromar Restaurant & Lounge and enjoy our seasonal menu
3 courses & coffee £25.95 . 2 courses & coffee £19.95
See Facebook for festive events
Festive Menu Winter Minestrone Soup with Pesto Croute Smoked Fish Bubble & Squeak +Tomato Salsa Salt & Pepper Squid with Garlic Mayo Dip Spiced Butternut Squash & Quinoa Bites with Chilli Jam Roast Breast Of Turkey with all Trimmings Pear Tart with Blue Cheese & Pistachios, Salad and Baby Potatoes Fillet Of Beef with Baby Onions & Mushrooms with Marsala Wine Cream Sauce Seafood Crumble with Fresh Veggies Xmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce Chocolate Orange Tart White Chocolate and Raspberry Cheesecake Warm Apple & Plum Cake with Caramel Rum Sauce
013398 81922 www.thecommercial-hotel.co.uk