The
FREE!
Fountain A Community Magazine for Aboyne
Hold the front page! Sisters get foot in the door of community business...
Issue 23 Winter 2020
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
Large range of Whiskies, Gins, Wines, and Spirits, including Deeside’s own ESKER and EENOO Gin PLUS the full range of PERSIE Gin from Glenshee Craft Distillers
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all our staff ABOYNE SHOP OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY 10am – 2pm
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 bottom of the page DEADLINES . FEB 1 . MAY 1 . AUG 1 . NOV 1 PUBLISHED MAR JUNE SEPT DEC
Contents Cover Story One 2 One Help Huntly Arms Plans Fare and Share Notice Board New! Small Ads Offer Pumpkin Trail Pics In Lady V’s Shoes Councillors’ Contacts Advertisers’ Index Ad Rates/Copy Dates
5 6 8 11 14 19 24 29 30 34 34
Welcome to Issue 23 of The Fountain And so we go on. Predictions of a long and lonely winter for many are hopefully being counteracted by news of more reopenings. Special ways are being found to celebrate Christmas and the New Year, as well as generally bringing light into these dark times. In these pages you can read all about a recent big change at an important community shop, find out how to have your say on plans for The Huntly Arms, and see just a small selection of the near 50 entries for the recent Aboyne Village Pumpkin Trail. Meanwhile, business developments continue to be buoyant, all considered! I’ve introduced a new “small ad” for £15 to help new and smaller businesses keep their toe in the door of printed publicity. You can read all about it on page 19. Remember that community information is FREE to include in these pages, so if you have any news for the Spring edition, tell me about it by February 1st if you can. Best wishes to all affected by Covid, and thanks to everyone fighting it on the front lines. Keep hanging in there, folks! Anyone finding it hard, turn to page 6-7. Cat Houston – Design/Editor
get in touch via email to catrionahouston@yahoo.co.uk
or call Cat on 013397 55243/07805 731401 www.myriadpro.co.uk find us on facebook
3
Aboyne’s Paper Shop is now under the new ownership and management of
The Paper Girls OPEN: Monday to Saturday 0530-1700 | Sunday 0530-1300
Bringing you a community-focused shop, selling and delivering a wide range of newspapers, magazines, confectionery and local produce Charleston Road | Aboyne | 01339 886847 email: thepapergirls607@gmail.com
See our Facebook page for updates and new developments
“Putting the community at the heart of everything we do”
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.
Cover story: All change at the Paper Shop Sisters promise to keep community at newsagents’ heart
Early November saw the end of an era at a much-loved village institution – Aboyne Paper Shop. A�er more than 16 years at the helm, Alan and Irene Robertson have hung up their pinnies, said goodbye to early starts, and embarked on their retirement. Fear not, however, for they have handed over the mantel (and the keys, right) of the community lynchpin in Charleston Road to local sisters Teresa Broere and Leanne Duncan (nee Baikie). ‘The Paper Girls’, as they have opted to be known, said: “We are local quines having been born and brought up in the area. We are so excited about working within our community as it has been a big dream for us both and now this dream has become reality.” Leanne and Teresa promise it will be business as usual and that they plan to put the community at the heart of everything they do. There will also be some exciting new developments to come, so they hope Aboyne’s public will continue to support and join them in their new adventure. They added: “We would also like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to Alan and Irene Robertson for all they have done for the community and we hope they have a happy and healthy retirement and enjoy every minute. We look forward to welcoming you all in the shop very soon.” You can also find updates on Facebook and Instagram.
5
Deeside Creations Local Artisans Gift Shop
Also Agents for Alford Dry Cleaners + Stockists of Fusion Paint Now open in Station Square | Aboyne e: Deesidecreations@outlook.com
Help is at hand
One to One Counselling Service Deeside, a free local counselling service for the residents of Lower Marr based in Aboyne, is now taking new referrals for anyone who would like up to 10 sessions of individual counselling. Staffed by 17 trained counsellors, One to One has been operational on Deeside for over 20 years and is proud to serve local people. When you call our number below and leave a message, which must include your own phone number, a member of our team will respond as soon as they can to arrange a suitable time so that we can conduct an Initial Assessment, which helps to ensure that our service is right for you. A�er this there may be a short wait before getting you started with regular weekly counselling sessions.
Mental Health Aberdeen’s Youth Counselling Service, ACIS Youth, is also pleased to be offering free confidential counselling in Aboyne for young people aged 12-18. Their specially trained youth counsellor is now accepting referrals from individuals resident in Lower Marr. Alternatively, if you just need some support or advice as a one-off, One to One are continuing to offer a Mental Health Helpline. If you would like more information, to access the helpline, or to make a referral for adult or youth counselling, please call 013398 86700 and leave a message on the confidential 24-hour answering machine.
013398 86700
7
8
Join the conversation! Group needs your input to succeed
The Huntly Arms Regeneration Project (HARP), led by the Mid-Deeside Community Trust (MDCT) and backed by Mid-Deeside Community Council (MDCC), has been delighted that a Viability Study attracted so many responses from local people. We’re almost at 500 people so far but we need more. Here is your chance to have your say. The task is being carried out by ‘Community Enterprise’, a group of consultants and architects with experience and expertise in revitalising businesses and buildings for local community use. Douglas Westwater of CE said: “We will work with the community to identify a vision for the building and ensure that anything that happens there is fundable, financially viable and will make a real difference in Aboyne.” In compliance with Covid 19 restrictions the consultants took a tour of the hotel followed by a meeting to discuss how the study will proceed. An online survey has been launched with a fantastic response so far. There has been an interesting range of comments from those who are keen to see the hotel come back to life, including people who have visited the hotel in past or those who have worked there. The survey is to find out what the local community would like to see happen to the Huntly. The more people who fill it in the more chance we have of seeing the doors re-open! We would like to hear from as many people as possible to help us find a sustainable future, so please fill in the survey form at:
surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Huntly_Arms_Community_Survey For those who can’t get to a computer, you can pick up a copy of the questionnaire at the Pet Shop or Paper Shop. Fill it in and return it to the shop and we’ll collect them. Find us on Facebook/HuntlyArmsRegenerationProject to keep up to date and add your comments. You can also contact the steering group at harp.aboyne@gmail.com
... MAN with a VAN ...
House Clearances Licensed Waste Removal Delivery Services Removal Services Friendly | Compassionate Professional | Local
Call Kev
07579 824061 corybegservices@gmail.com
Established 1998
speed
well
FRAMING
Friendly, Reliable Service
Plan A Electrical All your current needs
Wide Range of Quality Materials in Stock
Paintings, Photographs & Mirrors Needlework, Sports Shirts & Objects Framing Canvas Stretching and More...
t: 013398 80448 m: 07766 176 186
All types of electrical installation work Inspection and Testing (including EICR & PAT) Fault-finding and problem rectification Signal cabling: TV – Satellite – Audio – Telecomms Networking – Alarms
No job too small
e: jay.speedwell@intamail.com
07535-312759
Inchmarnoch Dinnet Aboyne AB34 5NX
contact@planaelectrical.com www.planaelectrical.com
years 30we’ve on...
moved!
Original outdoor clothing Made in Scotland. Used worldwide. At Hilltrek we’ve been hand cra ing performance outdoor clothing on Royal Deeside for 30 years. Our story now continues in larger premises at
Deeside Activity Park.
hillgear.s
cot
Hilltrek clothing • Páramo shop • Outdoor clothing repairs
www.hilltrek.co.uk
01339 886062
A new community initiative, Aboyne Fareshare, has recently been set up to help people and their families who would benefit from additional support, particularly during this period of great uncertainty. Mid Deeside Community Trust has joined together with FareShare, a UK-wide charity to develop the project. FareShare aims to reduce food poverty by getting food to those who need it most, whilst at the same time reducing food waste by redistributing excess food from supermarkets. Aboyne Fareshare’s premises (the Green Shed at the Community Centre) are
quite small, and given the restricted space and current Covid 19 regulations, will be unable to deal directly with members of the public. However, it will be open to any not-for-profit group or organisation who have identified a need for additional food in their community, and can distribute that food out into their communities. The method of distribution is up to the group involved and can be accomplished in many ways, including providing essential groceries for their members or using the food to produce meals in their community or organisation. Groups do not necessarily need to be constituted. There will be a stock of dried, tinned and other non-perishable goods available for groups to collect and distribute. Currently Aboyne Fareshare is open once a week for collections and groups will need to book a time slot to pick up goods. For more information and to request a time slot, please contact aboynefareshare@mid-deeside.org.uk
Aboyne Fareshare volunteers at the Green Shed
11
Befrienders continue to reach out
Kincardine and Deeside Befriending have returned to telephone befriending only, in line with Government guidelines. Many of our volunteers were delighted to return to visiting their clients again so this is hard on everyone. However, a weekly telephone call can make a world of difference, particularly at the moment when many of our elderly people are especially isolated. If you think that you would like to get involved, K & D Befriending are now offering an online training package which can be done at home in your own time. To find out more, contact Maggie Dornan on 01330 823368 or by emailing maggie.dornan@kdbefriending.org.uk Alternatively, get in touch through the website www.kdbefriending.org.uk which also has a link to our Facebook page.
12
When it’s cold and grey outside, let us bring sunshine to your door! No more supermarket queues, just stay safe at home and enjoy effortless, delicious meals, delivered with a smile. FREE* no contact delivery at your doorstep. Easy to order by phone or online. Pay by card when ordering.
BRINGING SUNSHINE
Over 300 feel-good dishes including mini, hearty and options for special diets.
No contract. No commitment. Just good old-fashioned service with a smile!
My driver always stops for a chat, and even puts my meals in the freezer if I want him to!
Meals from only
ÂŁ3.39
4.7 out of 5 based on 23,209 reviews (As of 03.08.2020) *Minimum orders required in some areas
NO CONTACT DELIVERY
For your FREE brochure call
01358 725 200
or visit www.wiltshirefarmfoods.com
Monkey Business For all your little monkeys
• Children’s Clothing 0-6 • Wide range of children’s shoes, size 0 to 3/36 • Foot measuring service • Large selection of new baby gifts • Quality brands • Friendly service For more information or to book a shoe fitting, call the shop on number below or email monkeybusinessforkids@live.co.uk
Station Square, Aboyne 013398 87140
01975 571775 07792 830780
• • • •
Local family business Oil and biomass boiler servicing and repairs New boilers sold and installed with 5 and 10-year warranties Aga Servicing
�lameboilerservices@gmail.com
www.�lameboilerservices.co.uk
NOTICE BOA RD Always something going on... Send your posters (in Word, jpeg or pdf format) to The Fountain via catrionahouston@ yahoo.co.uk or the Fountain Facebook page
Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action (AVA) is a registered charity covering the whole of Aberdeenshire. It was set up to support groups, organisations and registered charities with funding, governance, charitable status, volunteer recruitment, retainment and recognition, start-up help and business planning advice and support. We have a dedicated team of Development Officers. Your Development Officer for your area is Aileen Longino who can support your organisation. During these last few months we have seen a huge surge in groups looking for help and volunteers going above and beyond to support their communities. Please don’t hesitate to contact Aileen, she is here to help. Aileen.Longino@avashire. org.uk Mobile: 07824 096531
14
As the nights are fair drawing in, LLA is working with Aberdeenshire Community Planning Partnership to encourage people to keep busy and be kind to others in their community by taking part in a winter knitting project. Through the initiative Knit A Cosy Bosie, they are asking people to help others who may be struggling to keep warm by knitting or crocheting a cosy bosie for someone in their community. A cosy bosie can be a lap blanket, hat, scarf, pair of gloves or socks. Once you’ve knitted it, simply give it to someone! Local groups could also get involved by co-ordinating the collection and distribution of the Cosy Bosies in their community. If you would like to connect with a local group, or for more information and details of how to take part, call 01467 532929, email libraries@ aberdeenshire.gov.uk or see http://bit. ly/CosyBosie
More Pool Sessions Aboyne and Deeside Community Centre and Swimming Pool has opened a number of new sessions, including Adult and Baby classes, Adult and Preschool Child classes, age 8-11 Swim Session and Aquafit with Ruth. For more details or to book, go to www.livelifeaberdeenshire.org.uk or call 01339 267702.
Farmers’ Market Returns!
Aboyne Farmers’ Market returned to the Green in October and November, and market organisers The Seed Box hope that 2021 will see the market back at full capacity. If Government restrictions allow, the market will run on the 2nd Saturday of each month from April to December, 10am-2pm, Aboyne Green with a variety of local stall holders. See their Facebook page for updates.
Library back too! Sort of...
Our lovely Aboyne Library ladies are delighted to welcome you back too. You can now book slots to return books, collect book bundles, and collect hearing aid batteries at the following times: Saturday 10-1, and Monday and Wednesday 4-6. You can book your slot via the Live Life Aberdeenshire website or by calling 01467 532929 (9-5 Monday to Friday). 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
15
Virus brings challenging times for new parents writes NHS Volunteer Peer Supporter Vikki McPherson
Options for Tarland’s ‘Village Farm’ site are explored Like a lot of villages in rural Aberdeenshire, Tarland needs more affordable homes for local people. These are needed for lots of reasons, whether it’s for young families, older people looking to downsize, or businesses hoping to retain or increase staff numbers. The question is, how does a community go about helping get these designed and built? Tarland Development Group (TDG) has been working on this for a while and a lot of progress has been made! There’s an ideal piece of ground in the village – the ‘Village Farm’ site – that’s been the subject of a lot of exploration and feasibility studies. These have focused on trying to get as many homes as possible onto the land. Unfortunately this hasn’t really worked because of the prohibitively high costs of upgrading the existing water, drainage and mains electrics to serve the new homes. There aren’t really any other suitable sites in the village for housing so we’re looking at the Village Farm site from a different perspective: instead of maximising the number of homes on the site, how many homes could be built without having to upgrade all of the water, drainage and mains electric? It sounds like an obvious thing to do when you say it out loud. So that’s what we’re going to do. The project has a highly experienced steering group and a paid development worker, Sam Foster from Rural Housing Scotland, who is managing a range of aspects. This includes setting up an ‘official’ new group (Tarland Community Housing) that’s separate from TDG and we’re looking for people to join as volunteers to help shape the project. If you want to help push this amazing project forwards we want to hear from you. Get in touch with Sam at sam@ruralhousingscotland.org / 07421 369263 / facebook. com/tarlandcommunityhousing. Photo by Dan Christie
16
WE’RE ON YOUR DOORSTEP Remember when service was truly personal and not just another one size fits all approach? We are backed by a team and organisation built on over 100 years of customer service and trust. Working from a local office in Inverurie we bring our knowledge and experience to you to help ensure you have the right cover in place to protect the things that matter. Whether it’s home, motor, equine or business we have the expertise to make sure your insurance needs are covered. For a real conversation about your insurance call us on 01467 698 045, or alternatively send an email to Inverurie_agency@nfumutual.co.uk.
T C Brodie & R C Silvers is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982).
When times are tough, don’t stop ADVERTISING!
The Fountain relies on advertising to pay for design and printing and it means a lot that so many regular customers have continued to advertise during the Covid calamity. Always delighted to welcome new advertisers, I have opened up opportunities with a new value ad size, see right >>> At Myriad Pro Publishing, advertisers are not just a space on a page. All advertisers benefit from featuring in a Facebook album every quarter, and where advertisers’ own posts are seen on that social media platform, they will be shared. Feel free to tag The Fountain to make sure. New customers can also benefit from introductory features, and there are perks to being a long-term advertiser too, as well as discounts for featuring in the Alford and Banchory publications. The business landscape and publicity methods are changing all the time, and especially at the moment! So if you have any ideas on how The Fountain can further support you, do let me know. No matter if you are on the main street, out in the sticks, working from your spare room or just operating online, I can help. Have you started a new business in the Aboyne area? Want a mention? Get in touch.
The Fountain represents a unique opportunity for you to promote your business to a targetted area at reasonable cost. Ad rates start at just ÂŁ27 for a quarter page. Around 1,500 copies are distributed through the doors of residences in the village, prominent spots in the local community and within businesses willing to stock it. Geographically it covers Aboyne and the surrounding areas and includes Tarland. All Myriad Pro Publications are also available to read online at issuu.com
small
new size!
business
see samples below
painter + decorator odd jobs
TAXI!
ÂŁ15 ads | big just including design
07803 0*9*8*
single colour | max 5 lines
24hr service
contacts
Farm piano Foods plinky plonk
festival Mobile
Hair Dresser
teacher www...
LOGS
little bit about me
Come and get them
Tel | Email | Web
013398 44*44
Dental practices in Aboyne and Banchory High quality private dental care in a comfortable environment Children welcome under the NHS Disabled access and easy parking Emergencies treated promptly Payment plans available Call us today for more information and to make an appointment
Aboyne Practice Old Ballater Road Aboyne AB34 5HN Tel: 013398 86177
Banchory Practice Fountain Lodge Station Road Banchory AB31 5YA Tel: 01330 822583
www.fountaindentalgroup.co.uk
Tree Surgery Qualified & Experienced Tree Surgeons covering all aspects of tree surgery, Including stump removal & 24 hour emergency call out
Garden Design & Construction Patios, Decking, Turf, Raised Beds, Walls, Water Features, Planting - Call us to find out what more we can do!
Garden Maintenance Grass Cutting, Lawn care, Hedge Cutting, Shrub Pruning, Weeding and more!
Fencing & Gates All types of bespoke fencing and gates
Narrow Access Cherry Picker
For precision tree pruning, wide hedges, paintwork & gutter cleaning
If you can’t get to it, our Cherry Picker can!
Logs, Wood Chips, Mulch, Site Clearance, Painting, Ground Works & Excavations
Tarland: 01339 881589 / 07932 075225 julian@julianbarclay.com • www.julianbarclay.com
Advertorial
“My back just went!”
So o�en we hear these words… Many times new patients come to us in agony, sometimes with excruciating back pain, sometimes even radiating down the leg (sciatica), that all began a�er a really simple movement such as tying their shoe, bending down to pick up something they’ve dropped or turning their head quickly to hear someone calling at them. So why does this happen? There can be many reasons, but in our experience it may very well be a case of “the straw that broke the camel’s back”. This is to say, a camel can carry many loads however there will be a breaking point where the camel cannot take one more piece of straw! So how are our spines like a camel? Well although some people may be developing a bit of a hump (!) that is not what we mean. The reality is, a lot of these patients who did something seemingly small and insignificant (but are now in agony) have a number of things in common: – A history of prolonged sitting (e.g. a desk-based job, lack of physical activity due to age or other commitments) – A more sedentary lifestyle – Poor posture – A period of increased stress levels or a long period of constant “low-grade” stress – Little “niggles” of discomfort over time that have been ignored Our current lifestyles are not conducive to having a healthy pain-free body! Imagine one day you do
22
something that you have done hundreds of times before, maybe leaning over the sink, washing your hair, picking up a grandchild and BAM! Your body announces for all to hear that it has HAD ENOUGH. So what could this pain mean? Perhaps you have sprained some joints and/or muscles in your back, perhaps if the pain is radiating into the leg then the disc may also be involved. Regardless of the exact physiological cause of the pain, there are some easy things you can do when this happens to ease the pain: 1. Reduce the inflammation by using an ice pack. An ice pack (or pack of frozen peas will also do!) placed on the area for 10 mins every hour will help reduce any inflammation in the area. 2. Try to keep moving. Gone are the days of the recommendation of bed rest for back pain! Try to keep walking around and don’t sit for longer than 30 mins at a time. The worst thing you can do with a back pain flare up is stay still for a long time. 3. Drink 2-4 litres of water per day. Dehydration may play a part in these types of problems, plus all that going to the toilet will help keep you moving! 4. Don’t Panic – seek a professional diagnosis and care as soon as you can. Then you can relax in the knowledge that you know what is wrong and you know the person who can help to make it better. If you or a loved one needs some help with a new or ongoing pain issue – now is a great time to get in touch with us. We are offering readers 50% off their first visit to the clinic to see one of our expert Chiropractors or Osteopaths with this article. Call 01330 824040 or email info@ banchoryspinalhealth.co.uk to book your New Patient Consultation appointment (which includes a full assessment, a report of findings and your first treatment) for the incredible price of just £34 (usually £68) – let us know where you saw us!
Belwade Farm
Merry Christmas from all the staff and ponies at Belwade Farm!
Although we remain closed, we look forward to seeing everyone in 2021.
World Horse Welfare Belwade Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre Dess, Aboyne, AB34 5BJ
www.worldhorsewelfare.org Registered charity no: 206658 and SC038384
K&A ANDERSON LONENWELL GARAGE . ALFORD . 019755 62215
LOG SPLITTERS CHAINSAWS SNOW BLOWERS IN STOCK NOW
PREP ARE FOR AUTU MN & WI NTER
MOTs + SERVICING 40 YEARS in BUSINESS LOGS . KINDLING . PEAT BRIQUETTES . ECO LOGS . COAL & CALOR GAS
The Aboyne Village Pumpkin Trail ...was a resounding spooky success!
24
REIKI
CHRISTMAS VOUCHERS The ideal gift for a friend or relative
Relax in the hands of Fiona Bonner, a qualified Reiki Master and Teacher with over 20 years’ experience
Isabel Addison is a Family, Wedding and Funeral Celebrant She will support you in creating a celebration as unique as you are
Appointments available in Aboyne, Banchory & Aberdeen
t: 07900 046956 | w: reikiwithfiona.com e: healing@reikiwithfiona.com
Funeral Services | Memorial Services Eulogy Writing | Interment/Scattering of Ashes Pet Funerals | Living Funerals End of Life Planning Get in touch if you would like to find out more about her services:
isabel@legacycelebrant.org.uk | 07846 689884
www.legacycelebrant.org.uk
Plantar Fasciitis…
What the Heel? Advertorial
We all know that we are supposed to be more active, and indeed active every day. However for some people this can be very challenging, particularly if they have a painful foot condition, aggravated by exercise! Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common reasons that people consult our clinic, specifically our Biomechanics Consultant Edward. Plantar Fasciitis is a term people use to describe heel pain, but what is it exactly? Your plantar fascia is like a thick band of fibrous tissue that runs across the sole of your foot. It starts at your heel, goes under your arch and spreads out like a fan. Its job is to hold your foot together yet keep it flexible, so it is very strong and a little bit stretchy. The plantar fascia can become inflamed when it gets over-stretched, which can lead to microscopic tears and then pain. So what causes this over-stretching? Of course, there is rarely a clear answer to this question, but there are some factors which we believe contribute to the development of this condition: – Poor footwear – Sudden onset of exercise – Tight calf muscles – Imbalance in full-body biomechanics – Biomechanical problems in the foot
The standard treatment for this is ice, rest and painkillers. This may be effective initially, but in chronic (over 6 weeks duration) cases this is not a sustainable solution. There are a number of treatment options to try for this particular condition, and the best course of action should be customised to each individual sufferer. At Banchory Spinal Health, our specialist Biomechanics Consultant is trained to assess and diagnose foot problems such as plantar fasciitis, and we have partnered with FootHealth, the leading experts in producing bespoke orthotics to help with a wide variety of foot problems. We utilise a number of different techniques and will have some key recommendations to help you get back to feeling your best. If we feel that you would benefit from a pair of our custom orthotics we will certainly recommend them, but not without taking a full history of the problem, doing a full biomechanical assessment and foot scan with our state of the art technology and then fully discussing the best course of action first. Sometimes we recommend other options first such as massage, dry needling or specific home exercises. Foot and heel pain is an extremely debilitating condition, one that you don’t have to live with forever! Our team of Chiropractors, Osteopaths, Massage Therapists and our Biomechanics Consultant are here to help you live a painfree life! If you or someone you love has suffered with this condition or is experiencing foot pain, we would love to offer readers 50% off an Orthotics Assessment (usual cost £60) until December 31st 2020 when you present this article. Call us on 01330 824040 to book an appointment with Edward or send us an email to info@banchoryspinalhealth.co.uk
26
FORBES ACCESS HIRE 21m Cherry Picker Available to hire with qualified operator
07870 549262
Compact and ideal for working in confined areas Providing access to:
Aerials/satellite | Building Construction Chimney Work | Cleaning | Painting Maintenance | Gutters | Restoration Work Roofs | Stoves | Surveying | Illumination/ Signage | Steelwork | Solar/wind power and lots more....
forbeshire@outlook.com www.forbesaccesshire.com
FOOT CARE IN YOUR HOME All relevant C-19 precautions taken
NEW CLINIC
NOW OPEN IN TULLICH BALLATER Now open and taking new clients in the Deeside area providing Remedial and Sports Massage Therapy along with medical acupuncture (dry needling) and Kinesio taping
Massage therapy for acute and chronic pain provides very effective pain relief and normalises functionality within the body. It is also very effective in the treatment of many pathologies:
Stress | Anxiety | Depression | Headaches/Migraines | Arthritis Fibromyalgia | Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) | Tendinitis | Tendinosis Carpel Tunnel Syndrome | Tennis Elbow | Shoulder Pain Neck Pain | Back Pain | Hip/Groin Pain | Knee Pain Foot/Ankle Pain | Sleep Problems | Sporting Injuries Post Operative Pain | Trapped Nerves | Sciatica Working with you to provide an individual assessment and treatment plan to manage your pain, restore normal function within the body allowing you to get back to a fuller, more active lifestyle.
For further info or to book an appointment visit www.mjmtherapy.co.uk | call 07725 168470 email info@mjmtherapy.co.uk Micaiah Jakeman – DRSM – Tullich, Ballater AB35 5SB Find me on Facebook /mjmtherapy
in
Lady V’s Shoes
We have all been spending a lot more time locally of late. What have you been doing with the extra time in Royal Deeside? My family and I have certainly been productive with it – we can now confidently say that we will give Monsieur Hercule Poirot a run for his money as, just last week, we solved a murder. Yes, you read that correctly. There has been foul play afoot at the Aboyne Golf Club; Head Greenkeeper, Willie Sinkett, was found dead on the green surrounded by mysterious objects, one of which must be the murder weapon. Of course, this was not a real murder, but instead a fun, interactive way to see our village in a new and exciting light. As part of our local activities over half term, we downloaded the Aboyne murder mystery puzzle from Treasure Trails. Then, following the clues, riddles, and directions provided, we eliminated suspects and weapons until at last we had our perpetrator. Think Cluedo meets the great outdoors. The route took us a little over two hours to complete and it was a great way to get everyone engaging with our surroundings. Places that we see pretty much every day took on a whole new meaning as we looked all around us for answers. Starting at The Victory Hall, we looped our way around the village, taking in St Thomas’, the river, and Station Square. With the use of our little grey cells, soon there was only one suspect and one weapon remaining. Willie Sinkett ’s murderer had been found, thanks to our team efforts and powers of deduction. Of course, all this sleuthing can take a lot out of you. Naturally, a lunch out at The Boat Inn was the only rational way to conclude our morning’s investigations. Sitting outside to eat (my husband and I had certainly earned ourselves a pint at this point), it was warm and welcoming despite the chill in the air. Snuggled up in blankets and under the warming glow of the outdoor heaters, we were more than comfortable as we celebrated the family victory over… actually, no, I am not going to tell you who it was. I will leave that for you to solve yourself.
A column on village life from Victoria Kennedy
29
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
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��������� Alexander Burne� MSP 0131 348 5642 Alexander.Burnett.msp @parliament.scot
30
Aberdeenshire Electrical Services Ltd T: 013398 85355 M: 07855 678677 E: aberdeenshireelectricalsrvs@btinternet.com F: AberdeenshireElectricalSrvs All aspect of electrical work undertaken: Domestic - Commercial - Industrial - Agricultural - Oil & Gas Inspection & Testing - PAT Testing Supplier/installer of electric vehicle charging points free estimates - all work guaranteed - no job too small - local run business
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
Contact: John Whyte 013398 83698 07497 819551
Station Square’s kitchen co is cooking!
Aboyne’s EllingtonMennie is expanding its established kitchen business with the launch of a carefully selected cookware range. Like many local businesses, they are finding new and exciting ways to adapt to the changing ways of life and are delighted to welcome Jacqueline Rennison into the team to focus on developing the cookware business from within the local area. The full range of cookware and kitchen tools are available from the showroom in Aboyne’s Station Square. Jacqueline is providing both in-person (in the showroom by appointment) and remote consultation services to help customers find products that suit their cooking needs. Over the last couple of years, EllingtonMennie has also extended its kitchen design and installation services to bathrooms and bespoke furniture
for all rooms in the house. They have formed a close working relationship with a second-generation family-run cabinet maker business in Dunfermline and have completed some exciting bespoke furniture projects working with some imaginative and interesting materials. This has enabled EllingtonMennie to work more creatively with their customers and take on emerging projects such as home office conversions and furniture solutions for unusual spaces.
32
ELLINGTON MENNIE
Kitchens & Cookware
Providing full furniture solutions to create the perfect space in your home
Kitchens
We focus on providing the best end-to-end customer service and delivering beautifully fitted kitchens that exceed expectations. We listen to your ideas and develop conceptual kitchen designs to suit your living space. By combining 3D software, product samples and photos taken from our portfolio of projects, we can help you visualise your kitchen potential. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, we provide the full installation service using our own in-house joinery services and working exclusively with local ancillary trades.
Cookware
We are excited to announce the launch of our new venture into cookware. We have hand picked a range of professional cookware and kitchen tools from exclusive, luxury brands to complement your kitchen.
Station Square, Aboyne, AB34 5HX Monday to Friday: 9:30 - 17:00 Saturday: By appointment only
sales@ellingtonmennie.co.uk
Remote consultation
www.ellingtonmennie.co.uk
07788 316144
Index of Advertisers to help you find who...
AES Electrical Alpine Tree Care Banchory Podiatry Banchory Spinal BW Bookkeeping Commercial Hotel Corybeg Services Deeside Creations EllingtonMennie Fiona Bonner Reiki Flame Boilers Foodbank Forbes Access Hire Fountain Dental Group Gerry Robb Happy Bookshop Highland Glen Spas Hilltrek Julian Barclay
Y COP ES DAT
The
BULLETIN A Community Magazine for Alford
31 10 25 22 31 36 9 6 33 25 13 10 26 20 32 4 15 10 21
John Watson Boilers K&A Anderson Legacy Celebrant Micaiah Jakeman Mackinnons Monkey Business NFU Mutual Not Just Travel Ocean Rock Studios Paper Girls Plan A Electrical Ronald Hay Rural Housing Speedwell Framing Strachan’s Tornaveen Plumbing Transform Foot Health Wiltshire Farm Foods World Horse Welfare
9 23 25 28 35 13 17 24 6 4 9 13 16 9 2 31 27 12 23
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 20 Winter 2020
The Banchory Fly A Community Magazine for Banchory
FREE!
AD ES T A R Design adds £15 to any size advert
Issue 9 Winter 2020
Get in touch via email to catrionahouston@yahoo.co.uk Call Cat on 013397 55243 or 07805 731401 www.myriadpro.co.uk
FULL PAGE 140 x 200mm £108
HALF PAGE 140 x 99mm £55 QUARTER PAGE 98 x 66mm £27
Book a single ad in all three mags and save 10% Book four issues up front in one mag and save 10% Book four issues up front in two or more mags and save 20%
FOUNDED IN 1842...
matured over the
• Residential Property Sale, Purchase & Leasing
years to create a
• Personal Law - Wills, Trusts & Executries
fine blend of expert legal services.
013398 87665 www.mackinnons.com
• Employment Law • Commercial Property and Business Law • Dispute Resolution • Marine, Offshore & Renewables
solicitors LLP
THE COMMERCIAL, TARLAND 013398 81922 www.thecommercial-hotel.co.uk
So 2020 is proving to be quite a year. After all the stresses of recent months, we want to make this Christmas as simple as possible for you. Obviously we will have to do things differently this year, as big family gatherings and larger parties are on hold. However, we think that's the perfect excuse to have a cosy smaller festive outing. It goes without saying our main concern is to ensure you all have a safe, happy festive time with us, but you will still be assured our usual warm welcome, cosy log fire and plenty of Christmas cheer.
~ CHRISTMAS MENU 11th to 24th December ~
To make things as easy and flexible for you this Christmas, and in case things change, there will be
* NO DEPOSITS| NO SET MENUS| NO PRE-ORDERING * Instead, every day from the 11th December you will find special dishes with a decidedly Christmas flavour and of course the traditional Turkey roast, alongside your usual favourites. As there is no need to pre-order you can just decide what you fancy on the day. So. while some things may be different, we promise that the twinkling trees and the warm welcome will be the same as it's always been at The Commercial. If you would like to book, please get in touch. Government guidelines currently state no party sizes larger than six people. However ,we will review this in line with Government advice and let you know of any changes.
GIFT VOUCHERS NOW AVAILABLE