July 2015 | Issue No.3
www.heartlandbuzz.co.uk | Find us on Facebook
JML GARDEN ROOMS Sustainable Spaces to
YOUR
FREE
MONT MAGAZHLY INE
Live, Work & Play.
ANGUS ROSS
Skydance at Dawn
Bending, moulding, sculpting and folding wood to create remarkable furniture.
LAWERS OF GRAVITY
Perthshire’s ski competition on Ben Lawers.
RHINO
Lio Balland’s New Aberfeldy Restaurant.
RECIPE OF THE MONTH FROM THE SCOTTISH CRANNOG CENTRE
HIGHLAND PERTHSHIRE MARATHON
LAUNCH NIGHT AT ERRICHEL
MAINS OF TAYMOUTH COURTYARD
DELIGHT DELI OPENS ITS DOORS
22 TRAVELLING THE CRIEFF ROAD 46 MICHELLE MORTON 54 FORTINGALL ART
02 Contents
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
08
Sport & events
12
THE HIGHLAND PERTHSHIRE MARATHON
Local Business
MAINS OF TAYMOUTH COURTYARD The Courtyard Shop will celebrate
Time to hunt out your trainers, or your bike, or perhaps both!
its 10th birthday on the 18th of July 2015.
Furniture and public art
ANGUS ROSS Bending, moulding, sculpting and folding
14
wood to create remarkable furniture. We take a look behind the scenes with Angus.
18
New Local Business
DELIGHT DELI
Wildlife & Nature
Welcome to our
SKYDANCE AT DAWN
monthly nature and wildlife pages from a variety of contributors.
20
New Local Business
RHINO
22
Art & Creativity
TRAVELLING THE CRIEFF ROAD
24
28
Food & Drink
Local Business
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
LAUNCH NIGHT AT ERRICHEL
From The Scottish Crannog
Patrons Paul & Rebecca
Centre, plus wine from House
Newman, open to 80 guests.
of Menzies.
30
34 35
From Glen Lyon
MEL’S DIARY
Food & Drink
THYME TO TASTE
Contents
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
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53
03
Health & Fitness
OUCH MY BACK
READ THE BUZZ ONLINE You can now read all our previous issues online!
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www.issuu.com/theheartlandbuzz
Lifestyle
MAGAZINE PICK UP POINTS!
JML GARDEN ROOMS
Art & Creativity
Sustainable Spaces to Live, Work & Play.
FORTINGALL ART
Aberfeldy Audrey Slorance Gallery, Delight Deli & Habitat Cafe. Pitlochry
Fortingall Art is Highland Perthshire’s most prestigious annual art exhibition, held every summer since 2004, in the village of Fortingall.
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Honest Thistle, Tourist Information Centre, Cafe Calluna and Melt Gallery & Cafe.
Strathtay Strathtay stores. Kinloch Rannoch The Country Store. Ballinluig The Post Office & Rivers Meet Cafe.
Kenmore Karelia House. Dunkeld Going Pottie. Blair Atholl Heart of Atholl. We are looking into more locations, so if you have a local business and would like to kindly give up a little space for The Heartland Buzz, then we would love to hear from you.
56
KEEPING IT SOCIAL! Find us on Facebook Art & Creativity
Keep up to date with latest Buzz, our
MICHELLE MORTON Scottish Artist Michelle Morton pursues her dream of working full time in her studio in Abernethy, Perthshire.
Sports & Events
magazine pick up points and all our
LAWERS OF GRAVITY
latest adventures!
This year, Perthshire saw its first ski competition on Ben Lawers for almost 60 years.
We are going green. All our paper is sourced from well-managed forests. When you are finished with any printed material from us, help us keep our planet green and please recycle.
50 Things to see
OUT OF THE EARTH
58
Gardening
GROWING WITH ROSIE
62 ADVERTISING RATES
04 From the Editor
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
Welcome to The Heartland Buzz The third issue in and there is so much on
quarterly and occasional columns so a
that is just right! “Pleasure in the job puts
the horizon over the next few months!
big thank you to all of you for helping the
perfection in the work.”
Not only do we have some great ideas at
magazine grow. If you would be interested
The Heartland Buzz HQ, the community
in contributing then we would love to hear
are coming to us with some very exciting
about it.
projects and we will keep you all posted as things progress.
remainder of the year and our issue deadlines are listed below. Our time between
The magazine is ever evolving and we will
issues is gradually becoming less which
always strive to make it better and better.
means more magazines, more often!
There are so many local businesses and
You may notice the magazine itself has
community members that are now con-
gone through a little design overhaul and
tributing to the magazine with monthly,
we will keep going until we get a magazine
“
“
Fantastic results from this vibrant new magazine!
We have worked out our schedule for the
Delighted with my article in The Heartland Buzz!
As always, enjoy the magazine! Colin
ISSUES DEADLINES August | Issue No.4
24th JULY
Just one day after its second publica-
Thrilled to see one of my paintings
tion I was delighted to welcome new
on the front cover. I have had lots of
customers who had seen my article and
positive responses from people and as a
were inspired to get started on their up-
direct result had queries and sales with
cycling projects! I’m happy to say it’s just
new customers coming from Kinloch
going from strength to strength as more
Rannoch and Pitlochry. The magazine is
Oct/Nov | Issue No.6
people come through the door.
beautifully designed with loads of visual
8th OCTOBER
This was just the boost my small busi-
appeal.
September | Issue No.5
31st AUGUST
ness was needing and so I’d like to say a
A huge thank you to Colin for the
December | Issue No.7
huge ‘thank you’ to Heartland Buzz for
opportunity to get my artwork known in
getting me ‘out there’ .
homes all across Highland Perthshire’
16th NOVEMBER
Karen, Heart Of Atholl
Audrey, Audrey Slorance Gallery
Distribution dates are approx. 15 days after the deadline date.
Want to talk? If you are looking for further information, or need any assistance, you can contact us during office hours Monday to Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm. Alternatively you can email us anytime or visit our website. T
01887 840736
FB The Heartland Buzz
M
07709 502457
E hello@heartlandbuzz.co.uk
www.heartlandbuzz.co.uk
EA
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R GUARAN
R GUARAN
JML Garden Rooms - The Arns, Auchterarder, Perthshire PH3 1EJ Email: info@jmlgardenrooms.co.uk Tel: 01764 663668
E • 10 Y
SuStainable SpaceS to live, work & play
GUARA
www.jmlgardenrooms.co.uk
N E • 10 Y
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10
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10 YEAR G
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08 Furniture and public art
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
ANGUS
ROSS Furniture designer/ maker Angus Ross has been working from a studio-workshop tucked around the corner from The Square in Aberfeldy since 2002.
HELPING CREATIVES STAY CREATIVE!
www.angusross.co.uk
Furniture and public art
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
Many of us peer through the window to see what’s new when there’s a chance to walk along Burnside. The Heartland Buzz had a chance to look behind the scenes.
How did you become a designer/ maker? As a child I was always using my hands for my own projects or woodwork, gardening and metal-work with my father and cooking, knitting, sewing with my mother. We lived out of town (Inverness) with no TV so I had to do something! I enjoyed art and maths at school and thought I would train to become an architect - but then I
found out about Industrial Design. I have a BSc from Napier University and we studied
didn’t feel the job was quite right. In 1999 I had time out in Kenya
materials, manufacturing processes
(Operation Raleigh and travel) and decided
and the design process - all of which still
to change path. I re-trained in practical
fascinate me.
furniture making at Rycotewood College
After graduating I moved to London
in Oxfordshire. Sadly the course doesn’t
and worked for a company (Bissel) and
exist anymore. Like many colleges and
designed for mass manufacture of
art schools they are closing workshops.
injection moulded plastic products for the
However I had the chance to get back to
high street, including pushchairs, toys and
using my hands and I have been able to
potties for Mothercare and toothbrushes
combine designing and making in wood
for Boots. I became Design Manager, but
ever since.
09
10 Furniture and public art
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
To make the loops of the FORTH BENCH lengths of green oak were bent round an existing jig, which I had used for external benches commissioned for the John Muir Way last year. I then worked out how to twist and bend a single length of oak into a spiral to create the arm of the love-seat and provide a framework to anchor the loops. As I wanted the bench
Tell us about the furniture you have recently shown at the Saatchi Gallery in London? Contemporary Applied Arts Gallery, London invited me to present a new collection of work at COLLECT: The International Art Fair for Contemporary Objects held in the Saatchi Gallery. I took the second WHISKY COLLECTORS CABINET - a limited edition of ten. The first was made for Design Shanghai last year. I designed
shelved display area. These display doors
to appear light and effortless the hand-
then open to reveal much more storage inside. Lastly, there are secret storage areas - all storage benefits from elements of secrecy and surprise! The shape and construction of the cabinet itself references the staves of whisky barrels. It is all made in solid wood and I always use native hardwood timbers where possible. The second piece - the FORTH BENCH is a sculptural love-seat
turned struts were minimised and each
made specially for COLLECT.
one links to both a loop and the spiral. (The
I wanted to use only oak, sourced
combination of interesting structure and
locally and that lends itself to steam-
clean flowing lines can be seen in much of
bending green (undried) oak, which is a
Angus’s furniture).
technique our
I also took the RIBBON WRITING
workshop is
DESK, which combines a sculpted solid
known for. (The
oak ergonomic desk with a bent wood
workshop has been
hood providing storage niches, a drawer
short-listed for
and small cupboard. This will be limited to
the TRA-DA UK
an edition of ten.
Wood Awards four times, with steam-bent designs ranging from a stool to a series of Sculptural Fishing Platforms). it for an imagined Chinese collector of whisky. I thought around the notion and function of a collection and came up with storage, enjoyable interaction and display. The design then went in the direction of revealing a collection of whiskies in a series of stages. When the doors open there is a
Making a piece speculatively for an exhibition gives me a chance to work in a much more free way - I can be led by my
The desk was made by Senior Furniture
hands and the design evolves during the
Maker Steven Gray, who has worked me
making process. Steam-bending is also
for over ten years. Our apprentice Mike
quite a physical, unpredictable process
Storey made some sculptural storage
compared to other techniques we use.
vessels for the exhibition.
Furniture and public art
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
When you are exhibiting at international shows what do you tell people about Aberfeldy? People often want to talk about wood. They love touching well finished hard woods and I tell them how fortunate I am to source wood from a local woodland. Shortly after I moved to Aberfeldy I was invited to buy into a
ANGUS ROSS furniture workshop welcome visitors but request this is done by phoning ahead. The showroom will be open on Aberfeldy Market Days, first Sunday of the month between 10am - 2pm.
t. 01887 829857 e. angus@angusross.co.uk www.angusross.co.uk
cooperatively owned mixed woodland, a few miles downstream from the work-shop. I can now source oak from the woodland as part of a Forestry Management Plan, written by co-owner and native woodland expert Dr Rick Worrell. Like much of the native woodlands in the UK the wood had been neglected for years and thinning a few trees each year now helps the remaining trees. The other thing people are always fascinated to find out is that there are still work-shops like ours using traditional hand techniques. People are often quite moved by this, as they
IMAGES ON LEFT PAGETop-left: FORTH BENCH, Steam-bent and hand-turned solid oak sourced from Old Castle Wood, Grandtully. Photography ŠNigel Lumsden. Bottom-left: RIBBON DESK, Sculpted and steam-bent solid local oak. Top-right: WHISKY
associate it with the workshops they had visited as children -
COLLECTORS CABINET, Oak and sycamore.
this was particularly noticeable in China, after decades without
Bottom-right: JOHN MUIR BENCH.
this kind of work being done, but with a history of amazing woodwork.
GET YOUR WORK FEATURED NEXT MONTH
FREE
11
12 Sport & events
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
“TIME TO HUNT OUT YOUR TRAINERS OR YOUR BIKE, OR PERHAPS BOTH!”
All
proceeds raised
goes to
charity JOIN OVER 500 PARTICIPANTS
The
Highland Perthshire Marathon The Marathon & Half Marathon RUN or BIKE is now in its 4th year and will take place on Saturday 5th September 2015.
I
n 2010, well known Aberfeldy resident Stewart McNeish decided to take a not too leisurely bicycle trip on
a circuitous route from his home in Aberfeldy, through Weem to Comrie Bridge and on to picturesque Kenmore, returning to Aberfeldy through the Taymouth
“
local good causes. It took two years of meticulous planning to see his idea come to fruition, with Stewart taking
Perhaps the most scenic marathon to run or bike.”
Castle Estate. Little did Stewart realise that his
on the role of Events Director and utilising his vast organisational skills and experience as a retired Army Major and his local connections
in bringing the event together. The
exertions that day would be nothing in
first Marathon, for runners only on that
comparison to the efforts that he would be
occasion, was held in 2012.
undertaking in future years as a result of this particular cycle trip. Stewart had noted that the route
The now well established Aberfeldy & District Rotary Club organised event titled The Highland Perthshire Marathon and
he had undertaken was the equivalent
Half Marathon RUN or BIKE is now in its 4th
distance of a half marathon and he was
year and will take place on Saturday 5th
struck on the idea of involving his fellow
September 2015, starting and finishing in
Rotarians from the Aberfeldy & District
the Showground at Wades Park, courtesy
Rotary Club in organising an annual
of local farmer Donny Campbell.
Marathon to raise monies for Charities and
As the title suggests, participants
Sport & events
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
have the option of running or cycling a half
personal sponsorship monies for any
businesses declaring it their busiest
or full marathon or indeed, if so minded,
Charity of their choice, or for any of the
day of the year. The evening Ceilidh
combining different categories on the
four mentioned Charities.
at the Moness Resort was also a huge
day and participants should note that the event takes place as an OPEN ROAD EVENT. For the few, the event is a serious run or bike but for the vast majority this is a fun day out, enjoying the company and atmosphere that the event brings to all the participants. There are various age categories for the Run Events, from age 17 through to over 60’s and
“
There are various age categories for the Run Events from age 17 through to over 60’s”
for the cycle events from aged 12 years
success, with over 300 people, despite
This year, for the first time, the Event will include
some tired limbs, enjoying the evening
competitors
entertainments.
representing the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force who are taking part in the Annual Scottish Tri-Service Championships. This will introduce a new dimension to the Highland Perthshire Event.
All such events, however, are indebted
onward qualifying to take part.
to the generous goodwill afforded by
All proceeds raised from entry monies
Sponsors and Aberfeldy and District
each year goes to Aberfeldy and District
If you are thinking of entering the event then the Rotary Club organisers and sponsors believe that you are guaranteed value for your entry fee money including:
Medal for each competitor completing the course
Personalised Certificate giving
Rotary are particularly grateful to the very
competitors their course
Rotary Club for distribution to their
many local businesses who sponsor the
completion time.
Charities of choice, but a significant
event each year, at whatever level, and
donation is given to participating Charities
whom are too numerous to mention here.
who involved themselves in the Event on
The Rotary Club must make a special
the day, manning watering stations and
mention to the Scottish and Southern
assisting with Marshalling duties.
Energy Griffin Fund and also to the Moness
This year the four Charities are the
Resort, as main sponsors, for their
Perthshire based SCAA
generous continued support.
(Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance), CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young), CHAS (Children’s Hospice Association Scotland) and MAGGIES. Each competitor can simply run or cycle for fun or preferably they can raise
Post run/bike refreshment
Shower and leg massage
Pasta meal at Friday night
Registration, Moness Resort
The 2014 event was hugely successful,
with over 500 participants raising £15,000 to the Rotary Club Charity Account. In addition, the event brought in an estimated
Free Car Parking at Wades Park start/finishing point.
Free Camping if required
Free entry to Ceilidh at Moness Resort Saturday evening
1200 people to the town of Aberfeldy, with the added spin off with some local
For full details of the event, registration fees and how to register visit highlandperthshiremarathon.co.uk with online booking via Entry Central on the website.
13
14 Local business
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
THE COURTYARD SHOP CELEBRATES ITS 10TH BIRTHDAY!
O
n the 19th of July The
supermarkets. Nothing should ever be too
Courtyard Shop will celebrate
much trouble!
its 10th birthday. As part
Marion reminds us that “When we
space in Kenmore? Now with Mike as part of the team we even had cause to celebrate a wedding last
opened it was in the days before Tesco
year. Without the design expertise and the
Holiday Village Development, along with
and Asda delivered to these exotic parts.
constant cheery help and support of our
The Courtyard Bar and Restaurant, both
It is always a reality check when at 4.45pm
other partners, The Burns, we would have
have seen the beautiful Highland village of
on a Friday afternoon the vans begin to
found the going a greater challenge.
Kenmore become a must on the Scottish
appear and by 5.15pm the customers who
holiday destination calendar.
they delivered to appear in our shop saying
to become journalists, marine biologists,
“If only we had known all this was here”
nurses, teachers and designers and great
Them’s the challenges!
mums and dads too.
of the Mains of Taymouth
Since opening The Courtyard Shop, owners Henry and Marion Murdoch have stuck to the tried and tested retail offer
We have been very lucky with our staff
Other staffing stalwarts have gone on
We have always had students from
of great customer service and a selection
since opening, Jo has been with us since
Breadalbane Academy, often starting off
of stock, which is quirky and not readily
before even that, sitting up in the shed at
on work experience, then a Saturday job,
available on the High Street or in the
Kerrycroy wondering, along with the rest
then Uni holidays. “Its great watching
of us, what would we put into that huge big
COME JOIN THE CELEBRATIONS!
Get
10% everything
off
Sunday 19th July
these kids go from strength to strength and see their careers develop, but that’s probably just the teacher in me” says Henry. Since opening we have been really keen to promote local producers and makers and living in Perthshire we have plenty to choose from. During the summer when we have all the soft fruits available we have almost 30 local suppliers in the Deli. People on holiday are keen to know where the food they are buying comes from and if we have a back story it is something else our visitors
“
Since opening we have been really keen to promote local producers and makers”
will have learned about the area they have chosen to holiday in. The winter can be long and pretty lonely in not so sunny Kenmore, so we have had
to actively build our online businesses to help these out of season months. We have developed our Oils and Vinegars Bar within the shop and now send bottles and pouches out online through www.oilsandvinegars.com. We also have our www.foodofscotland.com website, on which we post out the very best food and drink Scotland has to offer, all over Britain. Seasonality and the weather are among the biggest challenges many small independent outfits such as ourselves face working in Highland Perthshire. We are committed to offering full time employment where possible and only close on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, so we are always thankful when the holiday houses fill up for New Year in particular, giving everyone a lift. We also now make products such as our “Wee Thanks For” boxes and send them out to other retailers all over the country. Our own Kenmore branded food goes from strength to strength, along with the bespoke hampers we make up for people who are here on holiday for them to take home as gifts. I think coming to Kenmore for many people stirs memories of their youth, camping with parents, or first sorties into being grown up. We are very lucky to be able to be part of the new experiences these people are having and perhaps creating the memories for future generations who come here to Kenmore and its surroundings and fall in love with it.
t. 01887 840760 info@theinnonthetay.co.uk www.theinnonthetay.co.uk The Inn on the Tay, Grandtully Perthshire, PH9 0PL
A warm and friendly welcome sets the tone for a memorable overnight stay in one of our six family sized rooms.
“Great family pub” We use only fresh local produce to prepare our meals
Food served daily 12 noon-3pm and 5-9pm licensed from 11am
Summer MENU
From the warm welcome that greets you as you come through our doors, the spectacular natural backdrop of our restaurant courtesy of the Grandtully rapids, to the contemporary Scottish menus and extensive drinks list, a visit to one of the Sunday Times “best pubs for the weekend” is a must for the whole family. So, our decking and play area awaits… come and join us this summer for the perfect family getaway on the banks of the river Tay, quite simply Scotland at its best. GRANDTULLY STRATHTAY
ABERFELDY
BAR | RESTAURANT | ROOMS
LOGIERAIT
Bespoke Highland Car Tours Pitlochry. Need a Personal Driver? “Why not let me take the strain whilst you relax and enjoy what Highland Perthshire has to offer. Fully Insured Driver Guide retired Police Officer.
Scenic tours, Castles, Distilleries, Airports etc.
Ronnie Owens Personal Driver Guide Killiecrankie Pitlochry PH16 5LR Tel: 01796 473934 or 07979 412831 e.mail rowens 55@rocketmail.com
18 New local business
D
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
elight Delicatessen opened in Aberfeldy in June 2015 and is proud to be able to carry
DELIGHT DELICATESSEN OPENS IN ABERFELDY
on the tradition of providing
fine foods and produce – sourced from
They believe in the core values of old and
dishes to be filled with a delicious meal of
local companies and suppliers wherever
in creating shops where you can still enjoy
your choice, so you can serve them like
possible. Delight is truly independent and
your shopping experience. Their aim is to
your own.
lovingly prepares everything from fresh,
‘create a haven for food lovers, a meeting
There is an extensive range of
using the finest ingredients.
place for locals, a destination for visitors
traditional deli foods, as well as other
and a place to be spoilt’
treats, surprises and foods that are
It is a haven of peace on Dunkeld Street, Aberfeldy. Having taken over the premises from Farmfresh in early May, Delight shut the doors for a month to give the store
“
The store
We are thrilled to have opened in Aberfeldy and hope we have created a shop that the town can be proud of.”
a complete
is a traditional
over 60 Scottish and Continental cheeses,
Deli/Café, a
charcuterie from Scotland and abroad,
food store which
locally sourced free range eggs, meats,
screams quaility,
salad leaves, and dairy products, as well as
freshness and
a huge range of nuts, pulses, dried fruit,
localness. Much
flours, organic bread and much more.
of the food is prepared on site in their own kitchen
overhaul. The store now has a light and airy
by local cook, Mary. Out of Mary’s
café and a shopping area that’s larger than
kitchen comes a wide array of
before, with a totally new look.
ready meals, soups, home baking,
Delight is the creation of Jamie
difficult to find in other outlets. There are
salads, quiches, pies, jams and
Landale, James Barnes and Sharon Brown,
chutneys plus much more, which
who have each been involved in food and
are all available to buy or sample
retail for many years. Jamie lives locally
in the new café. You can also pop
and will run the shop on a day to day basis.
in and drop off your own empty
In the café from you can indulge with a local Glen Lyon coffee and a freshly
New local business
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
foods the finest
and local
produce
“
Delight is truly independent and lovingly prepares everything from fresh.”
pates, sandwiches and platters, as well
made scone, or a toasted bacon sandwich
opened in Aberfeldy and I am looking
with lettuce, black pudding and tomato relish. At lunch time there are freshly
as selections for the wee ones. In the afternoon you can treat yourself to a strawberry tart or one of Mary’s traybakes. If you can’t eat in, you can have a sandwich or baguette made up fresh for
forward to meeting customers and
you, or just ask for the soup of the day.
becoming a strong part of the local
Jamie says “We are thrilled to have
community. We are very pleased with the warmth of the initial reaction and hope we have created a shop that the town can be proud of”.
prepared pies, quiches, soups, salads,
Delight Deli, 22 Dunkeld Street, Aberfeldy, Perthshire PH15 2AA. t. 01887 822 777
www.delight-deli.co.uk
19
New local business
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
RHINO
a great place for families to come and
Lio Balland’s New Aberfeldy Restaurant
I
enjoy some good food and drink
ntroducing Lio Balland, owner
for three years, after which he decided to
and to relax.
of Rhino, who will be opening
have a well earned break, having worked
The outside
his new restaurant in Aberfeldy
seven days a week for many years.
garden area
GET YOUR
FREE LUNCH 6TH JULY
on 6th July. Lio, who was born
Lio takes up the story from there.
can seat over 30 people and there will
and raised in France, has lived in
“In 2012 a call came from the Moness
be a gazebo for parking for push chairs,
Resort in Aberfeldy with an offer for me to
right next to the entrance to the family
the UK for over 25 years and has 20 years experience as a chef and running a variety
room and cafe. It will also
of food and beverage related businesses.
be a perfect seating area if
Lio is married to Miranda and has a five
customers want shade from
year old daughter, Nina.
the sun, or to get out of the rain. Outside will be dog
In 2000 Lio started his first Rhino Cafe in New Milton, Hampshire and soon
friendly and as Nina says cat
expanded his business by delivering meals
friendly as well! The rear of the premises
on wheels and starting his very popular outside catering venture known as Rhino
will have a fully fitted kitchen,
Catering. He didn’t stop at that! Next he
where I will do my home
took on the lease of a butcher’s shop for
made cooking for the cafe, the take away and the deli.
storage, which included a walk in fridge and freezer and he started running a deli shop.
take up the role as Catering Manager. With
I plan to start up an outside catering
Following the sale of his two businesses,
the opportunity to move up to a beautiful
business to provide catering for corporate
Lio concentrated on outside catering.
part of Scotland, and the chance of a
events and to bring your favourite cooking
Then in 2007, Lio started a new business
rewarding new job, I discussed this exciting
to your home or event for entertaining
opening with Miranda.
over 100 guests and we have all our own
The answer was of course go for it! I was back in the line of work I love. However, after three years at Moness I wanted a business of my own again, you can take the man out of the business, but you can’t take the business
equipment and china. All food will be
out of the man! So I’m
homemade, including gluten and dairy
opening a new Rhino in
free selections from the menu. The food
Aberfeldy. as a ‘Catering Doctor’. Here he fulfilled an
will be very Scottish,
I’m so excited about my new
with Gaelic flair. We also
important role helping catering businesses
venture for many reasons. Miranda,
welcome dogs, both inside
initially to survive and then improve, to
Nina and myself have made our
in the restaurant area and
become viable and successful businesses.
home in Aberfeldy with its great
outside”.
In 2009 he took on the franchise of a golf
community life and we really enjoy
club in Bournemouth and ran this business
living in Scotland. I also love working
looking forward to meeting
with the local community and local
you at Rhino from Monday
businesses and the opportunity
6th July. Rhino will be open
to call upon local knowledge and
every day for breakfast,
Lio and his team are
products. I have acquired superb premises
lunch, lots of cake and afternoon cream
opposite the Breadalbane Hotel and I’ve
tea.
converted the back room into a family room and children’s play area, which will be
Come and pick up your free fidelity card and get a “free Lunch!”
21
22 Art & creativity
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
Travellingthe
Crieff Road During term time, twice a week, for almost five years Zanna has been taking the 26 mile journey between Aberfeldy and Crieff along the A822.
W
hilst her daughters
In Amulree the change of seasons
of a bothy offer further subject matter, “I use water based mediums to
attend Auchlone Nature
can present a challenge; the snow drift
Kindergarten, she
can be up to ten feet deep, but this just
be quick and accessible. Usually this
justifies the long journey
adds another subject for Zanna to paint.
is watercolour, gouache, pencil and
to nursery by whizzing out into the hills to
Amulree’s remoteness and the views
pastel. Sometimes the urgency to get
paint for as long as she can, sometimes
over Strath Braan across to Creag Mead
it all on paper means that four hours are
from the car. As a commute it is pretty
are open and contrast with the sudden
spent without moving and the rain may
unbeatable, it never ceases to inspire; the
descent into the narrows of the Sma’Glen.
intervene, which means paintings get
gradual ascent past the Birks of Aberfeldy,
General Wade’s Military Road is never far
scuffed and rained on, but it is all part of
viewing Strathtay from above, up to Loch
away and there are numerous places to
the response to the landscape so I try to
na’Creag, taking the Scotston strait past
park up and paint just a few feet away from
just go with it”.
Griffin Wind Farm, seeing blackgame
the car; Zanna’s ‘mobile studio’.
lekking, shepherding, heather burning,
The final stretch of Zanna’s journey is
Zanna has been painting for as long as she can remember. After leaving school
brown hares, blue hares, red grouse
past the Foulford Inn to Gilmerton, where a
Zanna went to Winchester School of Art to
and deer; “so much happens along that
lonely Scots Pine and the Connachan Bog,
attend her Foundation Course in Art, but
journey. I want to paint it all!”.
with even more blackgame, and the ruins
it was there that she became interested in
Art & creativity
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
23
the history of art, along with her love of travel, that led her to Edinburgh University to study History of Art and Spanish. Upon graduation Zanna took a job in an art gallery, though after three years the urge to paint full time was back upon her and Zanna enrolled at Leith School of Art under Paul Martin, who stressed the importance of tools and technique, making his pupils make their own paint with raw pigments. This had great influence on Zanna and she found freedom with suddenly having a whole range of mediawith which to experiment. Her ability to push mediums and be bold and ‘attack’ her surface is evident in some of the work, where you get up close and see paper has actually been ripped and drawn back into again. Previously Zanna’s textural approach to painting built up a following for her encaustic work (with beeswax), but this recent period in her life whilst, looking after two small daughters, has lent itself to getting back out into nature for short bursts of creativity, experimenting with drawing and water-based media. Zanna has also had fun painting the wildlife that is present on the A822 journey “it is not uncommon to see red grouse, black grouse, a heron, oyster catchers, a stoat, blue hares, ravens, pheasants, buzzards, a roe deer, kites and of course sheep in one single 38 minute journey, so I wanted to get that down somehow and have discovered painting onto Buchan of Portobello ceramics made by Joe Hunter in Crieff.” The ceramics offer a different insight into Zanna’s work and each one is highly collectible, particularly as they carry the 1867 Buchan of Portobello, stamp which adds extra kudos to the piece. The solo show at The Watermill runs between 13th June and 28th July and is a chance to revel in this great highland road. Many of the pictures are very much recognisable scenes and some are annotations of a changing world. For example, the Amulree Tearoom is captured, but no longer there, and there is a painting of Creag Mead before the pylons. “I hadn’t realised until a friend pointed it out that in nearly every painting there is evidence of human presence - a road sign, some bunting, a
Zanna Wilson (Suzanna Steuart Fothringham) 1996-97 Winchester School of Art 1997-2001 Edinburgh University MA history of Art and Spanish 2004-2005 Painting Course Leith School of Art Regular exhibitor at Society of Scottish
“
So much happens along that journey. I want to paint it all!”
Artists (SSA), Royal Scottish Watercolourists (RSW), Royal Glasgow Institute (RGI), (2007 David Cargill Award), Paisley Art Institute (PAI) (2007 Drawing Award). Two Solo shows Compass Gallery, Glasgow 2009 and The Watermill 2009. Regular exhibitor with The Lime Tree Gallery in Suffolk and Bristol, Cyril Gerber
pylon, a telegraph pole, a fence, a bothy. Unwittingly
Fine Art, Glasgow, Morningside Gallery, Edinburgh, Anthony Woodd Gallery, Edinburgh, Strathearn
I seem to be cataloging the human interaction within
Gallery, Crieff, Works on Paper Fair 2014 and 2015 at The Science Museum London.
an awe inspiring pocket of Highland Perthshire”.
24 Food & drink
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
Recipe of the
Month
INTERES IN THE RETED THE MONCIPE OF GET IN TOTH? UCH!
THIS MONTH WE VISIT THE SCOTTISH CRANNOG CENTRE
OUR RECIPE OF THE MONTH IS CLAY-BAKED SALMON STUFFED WITH FORAGED HERBS, FRESH HOME-MADE CURD CHEESE ALONG WITH SPELT WHEAT FLOUR ROLLS.
Food & Drink
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
JULY IS BARBECUE MONTH AT THE SCOTTISH CRANNOG CENTRE AND PREPARATIONS ARE WELL UNDERWAY FOR OUR ‘IRON AGE GOURMET DAY’ ON THURSDAY, JULY 16TH.
I
nspiration for the event comes from discoveries of abundant
years before the Romans came to Britain. Other unexpected discoveries
food remains found underwater
included seeds from cloudberries and
during excavations of the 2,500
opium poppies. Cloudberries are common
salmon, shrouded in protective clay, bakes in the ashes and herb-infused lamb roasts on a spit. Thirsty cooks can wash down their
in Scandinavian countries, but are scarce
savoury samples with tastes of nettle beer,
off the village of Fearnan in Loch Tay. It
here and only grow high on the mountains
or non-alcoholic cordials, or something
seems our ancient loch-dwellers were
around us. Opium poppies are not native to
more conventional from the Crannog
peaceful farmers who hunted and fished to
Scotland, which raises intriguing questions
refreshment kiosk.
supplement their diets.
about its origins and use by the ancient
year old ‘Oakbank Crannog’
There will also be demonstrations
Crannog Iron Age Gourmet Day Remarkably well-preserved, the food remains included cultivated wheat, barley
loch-dwellers. Among the domestic utensils, platters
of cheese-making using a replica of the ancient colander for draining, with creamy spreads to taste. Visitors can make their own spelt bread rolls to dunk in barleyvege soup, and make
butter to spread on breads baked earlier in the clay ovens. Meanwhile, salad lovers
and wild oats, cattle, sheep, wild boar
and pot fragments that were found, one of
will enjoy the array of wild greens and
and deer; and evidence of more than 160
the most evocative was a broken, squared
blossoms displayed in garden borders and
different plant species, many of which
wooden dish with several holes drilled in
the assortment of edible weeds alongside
would have been used for medicinal as well
the bottom. Sticking to the corners was
our mini-crops of flax, opium poppy and
as culinary purposes. Whilst no fish bones
a grey, slimy material, which was sent off
wheat. To round off the tasting menu, for
have yet been found, we are confident that
for analysis. The result: butter fat! We
those with a sweet tooth the Crannog’s
our ancestors would have exploited the
had found an Iron Age colander used for
signature fruit bread pudding will be on
river and loch for salmon, trout, arctic char
draining cheese and/or butter.
hand.
and eels.
Accordingly, with such detailed
Further details of all Crannog events
evidence to go on, our Crannog cooks
may be found at www.crannog.co.uk and
Prior to our discovery of spelt wheat
have been busy creating an exciting menu
on our Facebook pages. For enquiries,
(triticum spelta) in Loch Tay, it was
for the Gourmet Day, to provide a wide
please telephone 01887 830583 or email
generally assumed that the Romans had
range of food and drink to experience.
us at info@crannog.co.uk
imported it. Here we have discovered the
Visitors will be able to toast their own wild
grain on two Iron Age crannogs, some 500
boar bangers around an open fire, whilst
Several of the finds were unexpected.
THE EVENT RUNS FROM 10:30AM TO 4:30PM AND BOOKING IS NECESSARY FOR PARTIES OF 10 OR MORE.
25
26 Food & drink
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
CRANNOG CURD CHEESE
IRON AGE CAMPFIRE CLAY-BAKED SALMON
Ingredients
Ingredients
2 litres whole milk (cow’s or goat’s)
Pinch of salt
2 tsp rennet (a herb rennet can also be made from the
Instructions
from heat and stir in rennet (or juice from herbs).
Several handfuls of fresh herbs such as wild garlic, thyme, jack-by-the hedge
Potter’s clay, enough to make 4 sheets to wrap around
salmon
Heat milk gently to 25-28°C. (In the past this was done near an open fire, or by adding small hot stones from the fire). Remove
the body, leaving head and tail Butter
juice from cooked nettle tops, common sorrel, or Lady’s
bedstraw)
1 whole salmon, gutted (1.5 to 2kg) and cut in half across
You will also need an open fire, 2 wire racks, several large flat stones, heat-proof gloves & metal or wooden spatulas.
Keep in a warm place until milk separates (this can take 1-2
Instructions
hours or up to 12 hours)
Shape the clay into 4 sausage shapes long enough to span
Line colander with a muslin cloth and place a bowl underneath
each half salmon. Flatten or roll out like pastry to a thickness
to collect whey (liquid). Pour in the mixture. Tie up the curds in the muslin cloth and
of about ½ inch (12mm). Repeat so that there are 2 sheets for each half salmon.
leave to drip for a couple of hours.
Place a thick layer of herbs on each clay sheet, followed by
Keep the curds wrapped up in muslin and place in the ‘Crannog
protects it from burning and imparts a lovely flavour. Lay one
butter-dish’ (see photo) or colander of your choice. Put a wood block on the top and additional weights such as stones to squeeze out more of the whey. Leave for 2 hours (or 24 hours if you want a harder, longer lasting cheese).
several slices of butter. This creates a ‘bed’ for the salmon, half salmon on top of each herb bed. Stuff the inside of the fish with more herbs. Layer butter and more herbs on top of the fish to create another bed. Then wrap the clay sheet over the fish to completely encase it, as you might with pastry. Pinch
Turn the curd cheese out of the cloth and store in a cool place.
any overlap and seal the edges. You now have 2 clay parcels.
It will stay fresh and ‘sweet’ for 2-3 days. Add chopped herbs
Place each parcel on a wire rack supported by flat stones at the
to taste. The cheese can also be seasoned with a little salt and pepper, although we did not have the latter in the Iron Age.
edge of an open fire. Leave a space under the middle of each rack for the heat to circulate. The clay will turn black and may crack and steam may emerge. Turn each rack regularly to avoid overcooking in any one part and flip over completely after about 30 minutes. Cooking time varies with the size of fish, between 60 and 90 minutes. Carefully remove the parcels from the fire and place on a rugged surface such as an old wooden
DELICIOUS SPREAD ON OATCAKES OR FRESH SPELT WHEAT BREAD!
table. Break off the clay to expose the fish. Remove all traces so there is a clean surface to work from. Peel away the herbs and skin. Cut the fish into chunks or slices to serve. This fish is also lovely stuffed and served with sliced fresh lemons, but we did not have those in early Iron Age Scotland. It is a great recipe for busy cooks, as they can get on with other jobs while the salmon is roasting.
Wine Month of the
USE THE CODE
“BUZZ” FOR A 10% DISCOUNT
Catena Alamos Malbec. Mendoza, Argentina. AVAILABLE ONLINE FOR £8.99
N
o-one has done more to put Mendoza on the map, or to raise the profile of
Malbec, than Nicolas Catena. There were many years of scepticism when he started planting the Bordeaux reject at ever higher altitudes in the Andes but eventually the results of his experiments spoke for themselves, he has now taken more of a backseat in the day to day management of his Families Winery Catena leaving his daughter Laura at the helm. This is a winery that never stands still and never compromises on quality. The Alamos wines are the starting point of Catena’s range and they always over deliver. This delicious red wine has aromas and flavours of ripe, dark berries, including raspberry & currants; these mingle with hints of sweet spice and a touch of leather. The mouthfeel is full and rich with a silky sprinkling of tannin and more of those delicious ripe berries. A suggestion of cherry crush and a hint of chocolate also appear, giving way to a long persistent finish. This is a perfect match for Rustic Meat dishes, Spicy Pizza or BBQ Lamb.
THE HOUSE OF MENZIES The House of Menzies was established in 1999 and has built a strong reputation for stocking and selling an eclectic range of New World Wines not readily available on the High Street. Wines start at £5.99 and are available online, by phone or email. Delivery in the Heartland Buzz area is free and complimentary glasses are available for parties and functions. For further information, please contact us on
e: info@houseofmenzies.com t: 01887 829 666 www.houseofmenzies.com
LAUNCH NIGHT AT ERRICHEL On Sunday 24th May, Alastair and Iris Budge-Reid hosted the Launch Night for Errichel House & Cottages & Thyme at Errichel Restaurant, where they introduced Patrons, Paul & Rebecca Newman to 80 guests.
Local business
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
T
he guests were treated to a sample of Errichel’s hospitality and restaurant food, which included canapes produced
in house and Head Chef, Paul Newman’s signature dish of Beetroot Cured Scottish Salmon with Essence of Citrus & Dewar’s Aberfeldy Whisky. Fiona Sloan, Front of House Manager, served her own speciality cocktails, including ‘The Triple P’, a refreshing drink of Pear Liqueur, Pomegranate and Proscecco, ‘Dewar’s Smash’ with mint and lemon and of course Dewar’s Whisky, alongside a ‘Hendricks Cucumber Gin’, a particular favourite of the guests. These cocktails and more feature on the restaurant’s extensive drinks menu. With Glenfiddich curating a tasting, there was also live music courtesy of the up and coming, very talented Sean C Kennedy. The evening was introduced by Philip Smith, Regional Director, Visit Scotland. The theme for the night was Errichel’s five new core elements; ‘Stay-DineCelebrate-Create-Shop’. Rebecca Newman, General Manager Errichel House & Cottages explains, “‘Stay’- Errichel House and Cottages is a family run hill farm on the beautiful slopes above Aberfeldy, in the heart of stunning Highland Perthshire. The farm has three characterful 4 and 5 star selfcatering holiday cottages, plus four newly refurbished high quality guest rooms for Bed and Breakfast, available all year round. We offer a bespoke service to all our guests and pride ourselves on attention to detail and ensuring all guests have a relaxing break. ‘Dine’ which represents Thyme at Errichel Restaurant, offering a truly delicious dining experience with a
lightness of touch to let our guests enjoy
or a friends and family get together. We
fantastic Scottish produce served at its
can cater for small or large Weddings
best. Paul prides himself on sourcing
and offer a unique setting for what is
quality local ingredients, which are then
undoubtedly one of the most important
prepared in our own kitchen by Paul and
days of your life. Celebration Cakes are
his team to showcase the best in Scottish
a specialty and are designed individually
produce, with flavours and influences from
to each customers wishes. We also offer corporate facilities ideal for
The Errichel team are passionate about their products and high standards of customer service and they look forward to sharing their passion with you.
business meetings and small residential conferences, alongside outside catering for your special event in your own chosen location. The ‘Create’ element is our very own cookery school, which will be
around the world. The team has recently
running a number of events throughout
gained a ‘Taste Our Best’ award, for locally
the year, where people can experience a
sourced products cooked & presented to
rare opportunity to learn from Paul, who
the very highest standards.”
has worked and trained teams in 5 star
Chef, Patron Paul Newman, who alongside wife Rebecca, cares for their
kitchens around the world. And finally ‘Shop’. Thyme to Eat is our
livestock on Errichel’s Hill Farm says “All
retail section and we produce the finest
our pork and beef is reared right here
foods in-house, including Chutneys, Jams,
at Errichel using the highest welfare
Home-baking, Ready Meals, Beetroot
standards to produce healthy, happy
Marinated Salmon, Thyme Roast &
animals. We breed our own Rare Breed
Spices Nuts, Celebration Cakes, Biltong &
Shetland Cattle and Rare Breed Large
Droewors”.
Black Pigs, both ideal for life on our hill farm.” Coming back to the third element,
As you can see, Errichel has lots to offer, with a unique setting and bespoke experience. Guests, whether Staying,
‘Celebrate’, Fiona Sloan, Front of House
Dining, Celebrating, Creating or Shopping,
Manager explains, “We offer a bespoke
will certainly enjoy a fantastic time in
wedding service and we are an ideal venue
superb surroundings.“
for smaller intimate gatherings and private functions, whether it’s a special birthday,
29
30 Wildlife & nature
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
SKY DANCE AT DAWN I am bent low, packing away my sleeping bag. It is mid April and my face and lower
seconds, heading upwards again. This is why I had spent the night in the
night, she flushed a group of grouse and a flock of meadow pipits, but she didn’t
arms are growing dark with the recent days
cold glen - the spectacular Hen Harrier!
seem to be hunting. The female, although
spent working outside in strong sunshine.
This vulnerable bird of prey has a home on
larger than the male, is much plainer,
But the nights could still be cruelly cold
the moorland here on Atholl. These birds
mainly brown, but easily recognised by a
to those creatures that spend them
eat a range of prey from invertebrates to
white rump where the tail meets the body.
outdoors.
voles and small birds, but perhaps most
In this instance, that included me. As
After witnessing the male’s sky dance
famously they are partial to red grouse.
I was lucky enough to see the two birds
I continued looking down, frustrated by
The white shape propelling itself across
together. My visit confirmed that this part
the reluctance of my frozen fingers to
the glen was the male, the showy bird
of the hill has a Hen Harrier territory and
perform what should be a mundane task,
of the pair. He is really distinctive, like
this will allow the nest to be monitored to
something changed. I hadn’t heard or
nothing else I would see here and certainly
record its breeding success.
seen anything, but something had made
unlike the female. His underparts are
me more alert.
white, whilst on top he is a blue grey colour
“How many people, I often wonder, can indulge their private passion in their everyday job? I don’t have to be told how lucky I am” Gods of the Morning - John Lister Kaye
As I walked off the hill, I recalled reading that once you had seen a Hen
with broad black wingtips. The
Harrier you would never forget it. I’m not
incredible display I witnessed
convinced. They appeared ghostly as I
is known as the ‘sky dance’,
watched them at dusk and in the strange
which is the courtship ritual.
pre-light of dawn. My memories already
This allows the male to show
seemed otherworldly, as if I imagined
his agility and stamina and
them, or dreamed them in the fitful sleep
convince the female that he
under canvas. I need to see them again
will be a solid provider for their
soon, just to confirm to myself that they
brood.
are real!
I had seen his potential partner late the previous
This period of bird monitoring came fast on the heels of a busy Easter period
I looked up to see a flash of white rocket
evening, as darkness drew in. Her flying
for the ranger team, welcoming lots of
silently skywards at a seemingly impossible
style was very different. She moved so
visitors to the area and providing a fun
speed. It was suddenly twisting, then
slowly, only feet above the heather, that I
packed range of events. John Lister Kaye
rolling over before plummeting towards
barely had to move my scope to keep her
is not alone in being lucky in how he makes
the earth. It disappeared below the sides
in view and she appeared to be in danger of
his living.
of the glen to surely crash into the burn
stalling and dropping to the ground. This
below. Unbelievably, it reappeared within
enables her to hunt by stealth and, on this
by Mark Johnston Ranger on Atholl Estates
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
Wildlife & nature
31
VISIT THE WORK OF JOHN MCGARRY FROM LOCHVIEW PHOTOGRAPHY ON FACEBOOK. ALL IMAGES BY LOCHVIEW PHOTOGRAPHY *
* Apart from the Hen Harrier
34 Mel’s hilltop diary
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
MEL’S HILLTOP DIARY
by Melanie Bonn Welcome to my occasional diary. I’m a mother of two and a reporter with the
My husband and I have a B&B in Glenlyon with just enough land round it to indulge in a bit of the Good Life. As you can imagine, living up a remote Highland glen has its moments – we get frozen water, power cuts and sometimes unexpected guests. Oh and Granny lives next door.
T
his has been the busiest possible month for us Glenlyon
Perthshire Advertiser.
Guinea fowl are surprisingly easy to keep. As birds go they really are the
duties whilst I was at work! It’s 15 years since I last
crofter’s friend, searching the grass for
had a puppy and, like my
bugs and ticks and kicking up a fuss if any
children’s baby days,
predators come visiting.
memory blurs out
We waited a week before letting them
the detail, leaving
out of a wire enclosure so they could get
only the nice bits.
used to the other poultry and suss out
We named him
where they lived.
Torrin, (‘from the
When we did give the comic polka dot
craggy hills’ in Gaelic),
smallholders. As if running a
trio their freedom, from the very first night
but already he’s better known as Torrin the
B&B and keeping on top of the
they chose to perch with the chickens in
Timewaster.
children’s homework were not enough,
the hen house – a relief as I’d have been
we’ve turned our home into a right old
gutted if our investment had just flown
bundle of trouble keeping everyone on
Noah’s Ark.
away into the forestry.
their toes; Up at 6am on the wet grass,
In May we took delivery of three piglets, a trio of guinea fowl and a Labrador puppy.
We now have a curious nine-week old
We cautiously tried Guinea fowl eggs
bleary-eyed in a dressing gown, patching
for Sunday breakfast and noticed they
holes in the fence and constantly swooping
had a double thickness shell, but
in to stop him getting his teeth into
The pigs were easy, they
otherwise they tasted just like a
electrical cables or swallowing stones.
travelled from Crieff in
regular hen’s egg.
Don’t get me wrong, he’s very cute when
a crate and soon made
Soon we had collected eight of
he’s asleep.
them selves comfortable in their paddock. We don’t have a pig arc, instead the iron top of an old Land Rover does them as a shelter. The children had fun getting it ready,
these peculiar pointy eggs and, seizing the moment, put the clutch under a broody hen. Hopefully they’ll hatch three weeks from now, Ugly Duckling style. Obviously the puppy
Not counting our own livestock journeys, half of Scotland’s animals seem to be on the move, or going on holiday. We have a woman on a cross-Britain sponsored ride wanting to stay at
spreading a deep bed of straw on a wooden
was the major acquisition
the B&B with her horse;
pallet inside.
for the family. Since our
while some other
faithful dog Bran died last
guests asked if it was
The Guinea fowl came from a rare breed auction in Inverurie. We had an early
summer I’ve spent months
all right to bring their
start to get there and it was very noisy in
researching breeders and
cat.
the packed sales hall.
kept my eye out for a black
Good thing we didn’t get carried away
lab from a quality working line.
in the bidding frenzy, as there were Jacob’s
The trail took me to the Borders
sheep and even Llamas going under the
near Jedburgh and I came home
hammer.
overjoyed with the wee pup.
On the long trip home to Glenlyon the
He was met by two very excited
I said accommodating a visiting feline would be fine and assumed it would stay indoors but they cheerfully told me that it liked to accompany them on walks. Just hope they
birds, safely stowed in a cardboard box,
daughters and a more restrained husband
don’t loose it out hiking. I’m up to my eyes
had to sit tight while we stopped for a fish
- probably because Jason knew he’d be
with this Dr Dolittle lark.
supper in Stonehaven.
lumped with several weeks of full on nanny
Food & Drink
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
THYME TO TASTE BROUGHT TO YOU BY THYME AT ERRICHEL - TASTE. EAT. CELEBRATE.
Thyme for Raspberries
Raspberry Crush If you love Raspberries why not try the Non-alcoholic Raspberry Crush recipe. •
70ml cranberry juice
•
35ml orange juice
•
Handful of fresh raspberries
•
1 tbsp lemon juice
•
Orange Slice for garnish
French Martini Is there anything more delicious than a well made French Martini? If there is I haven’t found it yet! Invented in the 1980’s in New York, at one of Keith McNally’s bars, this relatively modern cocktail is a favourite training tool for
To make, in a blender or a food processor, combine the Cranberry juice and the Orange juice and blend until well mixed. Add the Raspberries and the Lemon juice and process until smooth. Pour the mixture into tall glasses with ice and dress with the slices of Orange.
Bartenders. •
50ml Grey Goose Vodka
•
25ml Chambord Liqueur
•
40ml Fresh Pineapple Juice
•
2/3 fresh Raspberries to decorate
To make, take a chilled cocktail shaker and half fill with ice, add the Vodka, Chambord & Pineapple Juice. Shake Errichel House & Cottages, Thyme at Errichel Restaurant,
well. Strain into a chilled Martini Glass & decorate with
Errichel, Crieff Road, Aberfeldy, PH15 2EL
fresh raspberries.
t: 01887 820 850 m: 07483 352 123 www.errichel.co.uk
35
36 Lifestyle
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
Sustainable
Spaces to Live, Work & Play
Lifestyle
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
37
@JMLGardenRooms /jmlgardenrooms www.jmlgardenrooms.co.uk
“
Home office, art studio, guest bedroom, gym, games room, therapy room, cinema, sales office, music the list is endless.”
Please contact our offices on 01764 663668 to organise a visit to our showroom near Auchterarder.
JML GARDEN ROOMS IN AUCHTERARDER
J
ohn Langley is Perthshire
JML Garden Rooms at the end of 2013,
sports viewing. Her daughter then high
born and bred and gained
following numerous enquiries from clients
jacked the space, enjoying it’s peace and
his early experiences in
keen to have a high quality, fully insulated
quiet to study for her A-Levels. So the
the building industry from
space in their garden, which can be used
garden room really can be a space for the
weekends and holidays
all year round. ‘The big appeal for our
whole family to enjoy,” said John.
spent working for his
clients is to be able to increase their
A big growth area within the business
father’s Civils business in Dunkeld. His
living space without the disruption and
has been the demand for granny annexes.
love of eco house building grew and after
cost of an extension or moving home.
It’s the ideal solution for an older relative
a brief stint working in Aberdeen and
Our garden rooms don’t require planning
who wants to keep their independence and
London, he returned to Perthshire to set
permission and depending on the size
privacy, but also likes the security of being
up his own Building and Civil Engineering
and specification we can be off site again
close to the family. “We’ve just finished a
company, JML Contracts in 2006.
within three weeks and handing over their
granny annexe for a client, complete with a
keys,” commented John.
separate bedroom, bathroom and kitchen
JML Contracts is a family run business, based in Auchterarder, where John now
Another appeal is their flexible uses:
area within the main living space. Both
lives with his wife Katie and three boys.
home office, art studio, guest bedroom,
she and her mother are delighted with the
The business specialises in building new
gym, games room, therapy room, cinema,
result and she plans to get a great return
houses and extensions in SIPs (Structural
sales office, music – the list is endless. “We
on her investment by renting it out for
Insulated Panels), which have exceptional
built a garden room for a client locally in
holiday lets when it is no longer required
thermal performance and u-values
Auchterarder, who was keen for a separate
for her mother,” said John.
(drastically reducing energy bills), minimal
space she could use as an art studio,
erection time as they are manufactured
making the most of the natural light and
businesses, building top quality houses
off site and allow for a habitable roof
beautiful surrounding views. It didn’t take
and garden rooms in SIPs for clients in
space (as they don’t require roof trusses).
long for her husband to have a flat screen
Scotland and try and preserve as much
The product has been hugely popular
and surround sound installed so he could
family time as possible in the process!
and, as a consequence, they launched
also enjoy the space for his concerts and
John’s plan is to continue to grow both
Highland Perthshire Marathon & Half Marathon
Run
or
Bike
SATURDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER 2015 Charities
www.highlandperthshiremarathon.co.uk Check the website for more details and to book your place via EntryCentral
Sponsored by Organised by
Supported by D IRE AN SH HL RTH HIG PE
CYCLING
Sport & events
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
LOCH TUMMEL SAILING CLUB The first thing to establish is that we are not stuffy “yachties” We welcome and
back, commencing at two o’clock.
responsibility. Various dinghy classes are sailed,
Our Club is reliant on member
encourage anyone interested in sailing to
ranging from Optimist for juniors and other
contributions, both by paying annual
pay us a visit and see for themselves the
single handers such as Laser and Topper
subscriptions, which are set at the AGM,
excellent facilities we enjoy.
for more experienced sailors. A variety
and performing two duties per season
Our Club is family oriented and that
of performance two person dinghies are
eg. Rescue or Race Officer Duty and by
approach has been one of our strengths
well represented, some with spinnakers
attending work parties, before the season
over many years. Our waters are safe,
and others without. Keel boats are mainly
commences and at its end. Our season
even spectators and children enjoy our
Yeoman Dayboats and higher performance
runs between April and October.
amenities. The sand pit is a magnet for
Flying Fifteens. The Club owns a few
young children and for older ones, when
dinghies, which are made available to
and highly competent in organising major
they are not sailing, there are adventures to
members by arrangement.
events and championships at the request
be had in the wood! Our Club premises have been extended
New members often begin by crewing in a two “man” boat, gathering experience
Our Club is regarded as experienced
of class associations. Furthermore, the Club has two principal annual events,
and upgraded to stand comparison with
before deciding which
namely Tummel Week in the last
any club in Scotland. These comprise, club
way to go. Some
week in July and our open Regatta in
room, kitchen, changing rooms, toilets,
graduate to their own
September. Tummel Week usually has
showers, training room, stores and an
boats, while others may
informal tea/coffee point.
be content to continue
We offer beginners a sailing experience
crewing. Boats come in
TUMMEL WEEK
27th - 31st JULY
around sixty boats and many more people, with entries from far and wide. In 2014 our Regatta attracted 103 entries from all over Scotland.
in either a dinghy or small keel boat and
a range of type, size and
for anyone wishing to progress, advice and
cost but “starter boats”
coaching is available from experienced
need not be expensive,
members and through in club training
especially when compared with other
equipped, including personal buoyancy.
events, albeit that we are not a specific
sport equipment! Remember this can be
Three RIB rescue boats, crewed by
training establishment capable of awarding
something for all the family.
members, are deployed as circumstances
RYA Certificates. Training and coaching is also provided by RYA recognised coaches who lead formal training events arranged by the Club. Over the years several of our members have obtained
“
Most members gravitate towards
Loch Tummel Sailing Club, your local club, believes there may be folks out there with a latent interest in sailing and we would very much like to make contact.”
racing, which is mainly around “the cans”,
Safety is a priority and anyone on our water must be appropriately
require and in addition, we have a work boat for laying moorings and racing marks. The Club is administered by its Flag
although “island races”
Officers and a Committee elected by the
covering almost the
members at the AGM.
length of the loch are
Our sport can be as exciting and
popular. There is no
physically demanding you wish, but it also
obligation to race.
caters for all ages and abilities.
Some members prefer
Should you wish to discuss this
pottering and they
further please contact Ian McLaren by
may do so whenever
phone on 01738 634511 or at mclaren@
distinction at the highest levels of sailing,
they wish. Keys to the site and buildings are
upperwoodlands.co.uk. Alternatively
so we must be getting something right!
available to members. Racing takes place
contact our secretary Linda.
Safety boat training is also arranged
on Sundays, with the first race beginning
by the Club because safety is a prime
noon and two more races sailed back to
39
40 What’s buzzin’
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
SEASON SLALOM SUCCESS BRINGS MANY SMILES
Aberfeldy and District Probus Club
Breadalbane Canoe Club has had a great start to the 2015 competitive
Did you come along to any of our meetings since
season across the age range of paddlers involved in canoe slalom at the
our last article in the Quair and Heartland Buzz?
Club. Following a winter of intensive (and often cold!) training, those taking
No, I thought we hadn’t seen you – Yes you!
part in the Canoe Club’s talent pathway have been well rewarded for their
Well, what did you miss in the meantime? Some
hard work, with success at competitions across the UK.
more entertaining and inspiring speakers, this
Great Britain Squad At the junior section series on the 2012
time ranging from Aberfeldy and the Tay to
Olympic course, Jacob Holmes and Eddie McDiarmid retained their places
Tanzania. Also a hugely over-subscribed, but
on the GB Junior Squad, meaning that they will once again represent the
vastly entertaining tour of Taymouth Castle,
country in the European Championships, this time in Krakow, Poland during
instead of one of our coffee mornings. Well, we
August. In the Wild Water Racing discipline, Louise Revell has been selected
still had coffee actually, in Kenmore Hotel – very
by GB to race in the Senior World Championships in Austria in June, as well
nice. There you go, we told you it was worth
as the U23 World Championships in the USA! So a summer of travel and new
coming along. Now, however, we are having our summer
experiences beckons for these athletes.
Promotions At the other end of the pathway, many of the youngest
break over July and August and will re-convene
group have now achieved promotion this season out of Division 4, including
on Wednesday 2nd September at 12.30 in the
Lauren Johnston, Maya Baldwin, Johnny Anderson, Dougall Ashcroft, Lewis
Moness Country Club. Just in case your memory
Davies and Judah Hannigan. Promoted to Division 2 from 3 already this year
is as short as some of ours though, we will give
are Finn Macdonald and Georgia Holmes, with their colleagues in Division 3
you a wee reminder in a future issue.
queuing up to follow them. At the recent Division 2&3 event on Scotland’s only artificial white water course at Pinkston in Glasgow, Breagh Macpherson
Enquiries as before to Stan Pirie on 01887 820487 or David Parmley on 01887 829503.
and Angus Hulbert both recorded their first wins of the season to move them up the rankings to Division 1.
Underpinned by Hard Work This early season success is entirely due to the hard work that each individual has invested during the winter period and their commitment to regular training. Sessions are now all based at Grandtully, having moved from the winter training site in Aberfeldy, where paddlers are getting reacquainted with the white water environment as they develop better technique, which will be the foundation of any future
. GO ON.. R U O Y S GIVE U ! IP GOSS
success. If you see any of the Club on the water, drop by to say hi and encourage the young athletes in their endeavours.
Malcolm Appleby Pendant sells for £3,750 An engraved 18ct gold ruby and opal bird pendant made by Malcolm Appleby has sold in Edinburgh for £3,750. The fine example of the Perthshire based engravers’ extraordinary talents has fetched well over it’s estimate of £1,500-2,000 at Bonhams auction house. The handmade stylised bird is intricately engraved by Appleby and holds a circular cabochon-cut opal in its beak, with an oval cabochon-cut ruby to the body. Speaking of the pendant, Bonhams Jewellery specialist, Clare Blatherwick said: “It is really nice to see an early example of Malcolm Appleby’s work. There was great competition for it on the day and it goes to show how collectable he is in the market place” As one of the word’s leading engravers, Appleby was awarded an MBE for his services to hand engraving and heritage crafts in 2014, and in 2011 Louis Osman and Appleby’s ‘Prince of Wales Cup’ sold at Bonhams’ for £75,000, setting a new record for any post-war silver or gold item.
What’s buzzin’
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
Belles & Buns - The only women only road cycling event based in Highland Perthshire.
‘SPORT A SMILE’ ACTIVITY DAY The ‘Sport A Smile’ activity day will take place in the Memorial Park,
out on a relaxed, fun and social road event. Groups
Sport can often be male dominated, leaving women less confident to push themselves or try something new and many women state they don’t cycle as often as they’d like, as they don’t have any friends that also cycle. A women only event allows women the freedom to go at their own pace, with less pressure and the opportunity to meet other like minded female cyclists. If you would like to take part in Belles & Buns visit -www.highlandperthshirecycling.co.uk/ events/bellesandbuns. For more information and on the day entries get in touch with Kat - kat@ highlandperthshirecycling.co.uk
The Teapot Trophy was
the skills of those attending; these
won by Graham Davidson
include fly casting, archery, Segway
and Joe Osborne. We welcomed Blairgowrie
face painting, Beat the Goalie,
and Strathmore to our green
Bouncy Castle, tug-of-war and
for the annual friendlies and
hay rides, with Silly McBee adding
our members travelled to
a popular element of chaos to
Rattray for the first time,
the proceedings This event took
beginning a new connection
place for the first time in 2014 and
with the Rattray Club, which
attracted an excellent crowd and a
we hope to continue as an
great deal of interest. Entry is FREE
annual fixture. On 13th June
and refreshments will be available.
we visited Perth Bowling Club for another annual friendly. On 12th June the Friday Pairs and Tummel
a 40 mile circuit, including the steep ascent and
post ride chill out.
The Arnold Brown Trophy Walker and Elma Spence.
Perthshire farmland or challenge themselves on
and cake for everyone at the finish, a well earned
are as follows -
Sunday August 2nd. A wide range
will either take to a leisurely 15 mile loop of rolling
descent of the Ben Lawers pass. There will be tea
contested and the winners
was won by Dave Page, John
rides, bowls, slow bike riding, golf,
Kenmore will see groups of female cyclists head
Two Club trophies have been
Blair Atholl from 1.00 to 5.00pm on of activities will be featured to test
On Sunday 5th July at 9am the surrounds of
Pitlochry Bowling Club
BLAIR ATHOLL SUMMER MARKET The Annual Summer Market will take place in the Blair Atholl village hall from noon to 3.00pm on Sunday August 9th. Twenty stalls will offer a varied selection of goods and crafts. Refreshments will be available and entry is FREE! The fact that stallholders book space well ahead of time reflects the importance of BAATA’s Summer and Christmas markets.
Trophy games were keenly contested at Pitlochry and Blair Atholl greens. The Tummel Trophy was won by the Tummel Team and team members Dave Page and Joan Findlay also won the Ian Irvine Shield for the Pairs. Meanwhile Club ties and league matches keep us on the green, enjoying the good weather when it comes and we look forward to our Charity Day in aid of CHAS on Saturday 25th July. Donations to the Raffle are much appreciated and tickets will be on sale from Club members, and in the
SHED TO LET 4 miles from Aberfeldy, 1500sq.f, Secure, Insulated, Good access. Tel: 07718 912654
Co-op, on Friday 24th July. Spectators welcome to join us on the 25th and as usual any non-bowlers who would like a free trial at the sport are welcome to contact us to arrange a suitable time.
41
42 What’s buzzin’
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
ABERFELDY BOWLING CLUB OPEN TRIPLES RESULTS
Grandtully Gala – Sunday 7th June 2015
The 2015 Open Triples competition at Aberfeldy Bowling Club was won
This year’s Gala enjoyed bright but breezy weather
by local team, Jimmy Hermiston, Peter Jack and Alex McGravie. In a
and what a fantastic afternoon we had, with another
closely fought final, played under sunny skies, they beat a Bankfoot
excellent turnout. People from the local area were
team of Alan Montgomery, Andrew Carcary and Ian Kean to win the
joined by holiday makers, including visitors from places
Rose and Campbell Trophy. Aberfeldy skip, Jimmy Hermiston said, “We
like Germany, and fun was had by all. Many thanks goes
are delighted to have won this competition and would like to thank the
to Clive Bridges MC and the Heartland Radio team,
Club and the sponsors for all their arrangements. It has been a very
the Grandtully and Strathtay Village Hall Committee
enjoyable competition.”
and volunteers, the Vale of Atholl Pipe Band and the Highland dancers. Of course the Gala couldn’t happen
Presenting the trophy and prizes to the winners, Aberfeldy President
without the support from local businesses and the many
Anne Woolley commented, “We witnessed two excellent days of
stallholders, so a big thank you to them too.
bowling and I would like to thank all the bowlers who took part for
We also had a great response to the Craft
making it such a great competition. Our thanks also go to Dewar’s
Competition, with many top quality and varied
Aberfeldy Distillery Visitor Experience, Barhaul and the Black Watch Inn
entries, so thank you to all who entered. Our worthy
for their generous sponsorship of this competition.”
winner, chosen by a public vote, was Gill Tulloch with a very creative take on a Highland Chocolatier box of chocolates. Well done Gill, you can also see the winning photo on our Facebook page. Thank you all once again for supporting Grandtully & Strathtay Village Hall, we raised £1,600 for the hall fund. Our next event will be the Fireworks night on Saturday 7th November 2015. If you have any comments or queries, please contact us by email at: grandtullyvillagehall@gmail.com or like us
Winners: The photograph shows George Dark (Dewar’s) with Aberfeldy BC President Anne Woolley (both centre) flanked by the competition prize winners.
on www.facebook.co.uk/grandtullyvillagehall and stay in touch.
The Kings of Cool with Matt Ford Rotary Club of Pitlochry are proud to present the `Kings of Cool` with Matt Ford and eight very talented musicians in concert at the Festival Theatre on Sunday 26th July at 8.00pm. Matt currently performs with the Syd Lawrence Orchestra and is one of the lead singers with the internationally acclaimed John Wilson Orchestra, appearing with them in the Royal Albert Hall and recently to a full house in the Glasgow Concert Hall, due to return again to Glasgow during November 2015. The programme for the evening will consist of numbers from popular shows, musical films and many WEST END favourites. Just as their name Kings of Cool suggests. Proceeds from the evening will go to help the victims of the Earthquakes in Nepal, the sufferers of Ebola in Sierra Leone and the many Charities supported by the Rotary Club of Pitlochry This show is recommended to those of you who enjoyed the Pasadena Roof Orchestra in March, this also promises to be another wonderful night to remember. Tickets available from the Festival Theatre Box Office 01796 484626, or reserve your choice seats at Just the Ticket in Atholl Road Pitlochry.
What’s buzzin’
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
ANDERSON DENTISTRY KEEPING SMILES SAFE We were delighted when we heard that the Aberfeldy Rugby Football Club had formed a rugby sevens team and contacted coach Steve Brown to offer sponsorship. It quickly became clear that the best way we could sponsor the team would be by providing a most vital piece of protective kit - custom fitted mouth guards for every player. The Scottish Rugby Union strongly recommends that all players wear custom fitted mouth guards during training sessions as well as matches. As these fit perfectly to the wearer’s teeth they provide the optimum protection that is required for
Highland Safaris vehicle is Star of the Big Screen as Jurassic World comes to Birk’s Cinema in July! The latest Hollywood blockbuster, Jurassic World, is set to take the cinema world by storm. The vehicle that transports visitors round the Dinosaur Park in the film is none other than the Pinzgauer – a rugged 6 wheel drive all terrain vehicle, also used by top visitor attraction Highland Safaris in Aberfeldy, where it is used for Groups looking for a unique experience for a landmark birthday, hen or stag do, reunion or family get together. Dinosaurs not included though!
the fast paced game of rugby sevens. As a result, all fifteen players put themselves into the hands of the girls at Anderson Dentistry last Monday evening to have individual moulds taken of their teeth. Ironically, owing to a rugby injury of his own, Ross was unable to assist with the evening’s work. Although debilitating, Ross’ injury was as a result of playing with our nine year old son......enough said. With the choice of every conceivable colour to customise their mouth guards, the boys all opted for jet black in a bid to further intimidate oncoming opponents. These close fitting mouth guards not only protect the teeth and the surrounding soft tissues from trauma, but can also help prevent a broken jaw. They are also crucial in the prevention of concussion and laceration of fellow players. As communication is vital in any team sport, an additional benefit of custom fitted mouth guards, as opposed to boil and bite shop bought mouth guards, is that speech is easier as they stay in place and are not easily dislodged. If you would also like to help the team, come along to their Fundraising Barbeque at the Ailean Chraggan on Friday June 26th at 7pm. Tickets are £10 and all will receive a warm welcome. All at Anderson Dentistry wish the Aberfeldy Rugby Football Club continued success on the field.
Scotland was recently dubbed ‘the real Jurassic Park’ after a new marine reptile from this age was identified from fossils on Skye. In this spectacular vehicle, with 11 individual belted seats and a full glass roof, guests experience the real ‘Jurassic Scotland’ on a journey like no other through breathtaking Highland wilderness landscapes steeped in history, heritage, wildlife and culture. A stop at a private mountain bothy perched high on the hill (at 2,600ft), where guests enjoy premium local produce and a dram of whisky served by their very own kilted Safari Ranger completes this unforgettable experience. Mike Cantlay, Chairman of Visit Scotland, said: “As people around the world gear up for the spectacular special effects of Jurassic World, it is great to see Highland Safaris making the most of this monster opportunity. I’m sure it will inspire even more people to enjoy the stunning landscapes and wildlife of the Highlands, something that doesn’t need Velociraptors or a T-Rex to make for an exhilarating adventure!”
43
44 What’s buzzin’
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
Bring Back the Smile to Nepal When news of the dev-
Breadalbane Cricket Club
astating 7.8 magnitude earthquake, that shook
Welcome to the second of our monthly diaries,
managed 5th and 6th place respectively, from
Nepal on April 25th, rever-
bringing you details of your local cricket club
102 teams originally entered. This success
berated around the world,
and news about Scotland’s second largest
is even more remarkable, when the relative
the reports were even more
team participation sport, behind football.
size and experience level of the schools is
distressing for the Gurung
Finally, after a bucket load of rain, a
measured against their opposition from Perth
family from the quiet village
blast of icy wind, a heap of hail and a glut of
and the private schools. Well done to them all.
of Kenmore, near Aberfeldy
cancellations, Breadalbane finally managed to get their season underway with a trip to
Outdoor practice sessions continue on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, in Victoria
in Perthshire. Sanu and Anna Gurung
Falkland Cricket Club, in the south of the
Park. Everyone is welcome, regardless of age
had moved from Nepal to
county. Falkland, a national league club, always
and ability. So please come along and you
raise a family and to enable
provide tricky opposition and May 24th’s
will be assured of a warm welcome. Junior
Sanu to work in the rafting
match proved to be same. Sadly Breadalbane
sessions run from 5pm to 6pm on Thursdays.
and outdoor adventure busi-
could only post 97 (despite some sound
Older Juniors are invited and encouraged to
ness. Although Anna’s family
batting from skipper Mark Bowler ) and the
stay on and try their hand at “hard ball”, with
live in Aberdeenshire, the
experience of the Falkland openers proved to
the seniors.
couple settled on Perthshire.
be too much for the undercooked Breadalbane bowling attack, as they eased past the required total. Back to the drawing board then, however the inclement weather meant it was a full two weeks until the Breadies were able to don their whites again for the visit to Spittlefield, to play local rivals Glendelvine. The match, always a friendly affair, was played in bright sunshine and captain Finlay Thom ( playing his last match of the season for the Club, before travelling abroad to work) chose to bat first. Despite a steady start Breadalbane’s lack of experience and practice showed as the team struggled against tight bowling and a
“ The rivers, mountains and Remaining Fixtures for the 2015 season are
terrain make Perthshire very
listed here :
much like the areas of Nepal
Sun Jun 28
v St Modans
A
Div 2
Sun Jul 5
Semi Finals
Cup
Sun Jul 12
v Glenrothes
A
Div 2
Sun Jul 19
Cup Final Day
A
Cup
Sun Jul 26
v Glendelvine
H
Div 2
Sun Aug 2
v Alloa XI
A
Div 2
Sun Aug 9
v Falkland XI
H
Div 2
Sun Aug 16
v Callander
H
Div 2
Sat Aug 22
v North Berwick H
Friendly
Sun Aug 30
v Glenrothes
Div 2
H
Please come along and support the team.
swinging ball. Although managing to bat for
Matches in Victoria Park commence at 1pm.
38 of the possible 40 overs, the team could
Look out for reports from the remaining
that Sanu worked and grew up in. We knew we would feel at home here”. Anna explained. They first met in 1993, when Anna travelled to Nepal. Although she had to return to the UK, the following year she made the arduous trip across the border from Bangladesh – where she had been working as a volunteer. A chance meeting brought them
only post a slender 89, with only Myles Bax,
games of the season in the next issue of
together again, they fell in
Mark Bridgeman and Greig Joss showing
Heartland Buzz, or on the club’s Facebook
love and married in 2000.
some resistance. A strong batting partnership
page – “Breadalbane Cricket Club Supporters”.
from the Glendelvine openers meant that, by the time Greig Joss removed Andrew Ross courtesy of a stunning catch by Stuart Gibson, the match was all but won. It was left to ex Breadalbane player Neil Wimberley to hit the winning runs, as Glendelvine ran out easy winners. Despite these early season setbacks,
Pitlochry Gallery Association Summer Exhibition
however, there have been many positives for
Pitlochry Gallery Association will be holding their summer exhibition and sale
the Club. Spirit has been high and excellent
of art and crafts in the Atholl Centre, Pitlochry (next to the Tourist office and
availability has given the captain unforeseen
behind the Baptist Church) from the 27th July to the 15th August.
selection problems. Things bode well for the
Any local artists who would like to exhibit their work at the Pitlochry
future too, with the representative teams from
Gallery Association summer exhibition should contact Helen on 01796
Pitlochry and Breadalbane schools qualifying
470381 or hporter@intraspin.com to get further information. We are looking
for the Regional Junior Cricket finals. They
for more artists to exhibit with us and would welcome your call.
What’s buzzin’
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
Although they had always hoped to raise a family in Nepal, the political unrest in the country, which followed the 2001 massacre of King Birendra and nine members of the Royal family at the Narayanhity Royal Palace in Kathmandu, persuaded Sanu and Anna to uproot and settle in the tranquillity of Highland Perthshire. With their three children, Sanu (39) and Anna (43) had visited Nepal as recently as October last year. Their family and friends still fresh in their minds, the news of the largest earthquake for 80 years meant an anxious and nerve racking wait, as they desperately tried to contact their family in the Darachok district of Nepal. With phone lines down and power supplies sporadic, it was a fretful 72 hours spent trying to contact their loved ones. “Eventually”, Anna said, “we confirmed that Sanu’s parents had survived but their house was unsafe and they were having to live in tents”. Further calls helped them discover that although Sanu’s Aunt had witnessed her house reduced to rubble, she had escaped unscathed. His sister, who lived in Kathmandu had also been lucky. They were able to breathe a huge sigh of relief. Although their own family had been comparatively lucky, the couple’s deep affection for the country and it’s people meant they felt the need to try and help, in any way they could. Anna, together with one of her close friends Liz Holmes, immediately hit on the idea of a parachute jump, to raise funds for Mercy Corps relief efforts in Nepal. In addition to the jump Anna also organised a fundraising dinner at the Molteno Hall in Fortingall.
“Nepal is a beautiful country”, said
strengthening to near the advisable
Anna, “the very first thing everyone
limit the brave pair jumped, in tandem,
notices, when they visit, is everyone’s
with their instructors from the Paragon
amazing smile. We want
Skydiving Club. After a
to do whatever we can to
period of nerve racking
help bring that back. The
free falling ( as they
monsoon season is coming,
accelerated to 120mph )
communications are difficult
their chutes opened and
and there are problems with
the pair floated safely
the drinking water. We decided
down, to cheers from their
we had to act now”
family and friends. The Skydive, together
Anna worked tirelessly, finding a
with the fundraising
location,
dinner, has seen Anna
expert
raise over £11,500 for Nepal, in just over a week!
help and seeking out big hearted
However Anna does not intend to rest on
donations to help make
her laurels and will continue to fund raise in
the evening a huge
the coming weeks and months.
successful. The dinner – under
Anyone who would like to donate, or keep up to date with Anna’s campaign can
the banner Bring Back
follow her progress @ facebook/Bring
The Smile To Nepal –
Back The Smile To Nepal.
was held on Saturday 16th May. 120 guests enjoyed a meal, music,
We would like to say a huge and
fundraising auction
heartfelt thank you to everyone in Highland
and entertainment and
Perthshire, and beyond, who have helped
raised over £8,000,
to make our fundraising campaign such a
towards disaster relief
success.
in Nepal.
Without your help, generosity, thought,
Anna made an
patience and hard work, we could not have
emotional speech, to
achieved so much in such a sort period of
open proceeding, as she thanked the team of volunteers, that had kindly given their
time. From the local businesses, who have
time to help make the night a success. She
donated prizes so generously, to the
also paid tribute to the generosity of all the
individuals who selflessly gave their time
local individuals and businesses, small and
and effort we – quite simply – could not
large, who had gifted prizes and donations
have accomplished such a great deal for
towards the fundraising effort.
earthquake relief in Nepal.
“It’s amazing how quickly Anna and
All of our combined efforts have, to date,
Sanu have organised this event,” said Mark
raised in excess of £11,000. Thank you so
Bridgeman ( part of Team Anna ), “ only
much.
her astonishing drive and determination
Inspired by what we have raised so far,
during the last few weeks have made
the enthusiasm, good wishes of so many
this possible. A huge thank you also to
people and, of course most importantly, the
everyone that helped tonight, Anna and
sheer size and ongoing nature of the work
Sanu will never forget your generosity.”
required in Nepal, we hope to carry on the
Following the successful dinner, Anna moved swiftly on to her next fundraising
good work for as long as it is needed. Knowing that so many people were able
exploit. On Sunday May 24th, Anna
to offer so much help and support to a land
– together with her friend Liz Holmes –
so far away, is something that we can all
took to the skies to raise yet more funds
be very proud of. Once again, thank you so
for Nepal. The intrepid pair completed
much
their skydive from 10,000 feet, above Errol Airfield, near Perth. Despite winds
Anna & Sanu Gurung
45
46 Art & creativity
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
MICHELLE MORTON
Scottish Artist Michelle Morton pursues her dream of working full time in her studio in Abernethy, Perthshire.
GET YOUR WORK FEATURED NEXT MONTH
FREE
Milk Cartons A range of my hand painted milk carton’s which are extremely popular. I have painted many for farms and wedding gifts. Their old fashioned shape brings back memories for many.
Art & creativity
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
M
ICHELLE SPECIALISES IN INTRICATE AND DETAILED HAND PAINTED CERAMICS, LARGE PLATTERS AND BOWLS, WEDDING GIFTS AND COMMISSIONS. MICHELLE ALSO PAINTS STILL LIFE AND LANDSCAPE PAINTINGS.
Tell us a little bit about you...
Whilst at college I was luckily enough to
nights in hotels painting and completing
get a job in Dunkeld at the ceramic studio,
commissions whilst trying to juggle
Going Pottie. My main role at the shop
working full time alongside the busy
I live with my partner Mike, we are engaged
was to teach others painting techniques,
farming life. I knew in 2014 at the age of
and getting married next year. Mike runs
as well as designing and painting pieces
27 that I wanted to pursue what I had
the farm with his father and we have a lab
for the shop to sell. I loved this job and
always dreamed of, this was the beginning
pup Voulen, some hens and cats. Walking
dreamed I would have a shop like this one
of some very big changes for myself.
the dog and running around the farm is
day!.
Soon after, the studio was finished in
often a starting point for many of my ideas.
Unfortunately, after completing my
September and I opened every weekend
My ideas are quickly drawn out on sketch
portfolio and my time at the pottery studio
leading up to Christmas, which was a huge
books before I paint them onto ceramics in
I didn’t get into art college due to not
success. I sold local produce, my hand
the studio.
gaining higher English. I then decided I was
made wreaths, ceramics and my paintings
As well as painting and the farming
going to go to
and the studio will ,
“
life, Mike and I spend a lot of time keeping
Napier university
fit, running, cycling, munro bagging,
in Edinburgh
competing in sporting events and we do
and completed
love our activity holidays! I enjoy cycling
an honours
around the western isles taking pictures
degree in Estate
of the beautiful beaches and landscapes,
Management.
which inspire some of my landscape
This was
paintings. I also love the fishing life and
something I had
take inspiration from around Fife, in
fancied doing, but I think I was confused
Perthshire open studio event, where
particular Crail and Elie.
at the time, as I was disheartened from
the studio will be open for the public to
refusal from art college and really didn’t
come and see me working and purchase
know what I wanted to do.
ceramics, paintings and more of my work.
One of my main themes in my work is the hen or ‘hennies’ as I like to call them. I have always loved hens and started
I knew at the age of 27 I wanted to pursue what I always wanted”
once again, reopen this Christmas. I now work as a professional artist solely at my art studio. I am also taking part in the
Whilst studying, I had saved up enough
keeping them from a young age. This love
money to buy a kiln and some paints which
and fascination has stayed with me and is
I still use in the studio today and began
seen in many of my pieces today. I love the
doing a few pieces for friends and family.
colours, feathers, shapes and many types
Eventually I built up some confidence and
I officially started my business in October
and breeds, I love their individual quirky
enough pieces to attend local craft fairs. I
2014 when I left my full time job, but have
characters. I try and capture a glimpse of
had nowhere to paint except my bedroom,
been painting and doing commissions for
these characters in my pieces. I have also
so this quickly turned into my studio,
the last 10 years.
incorporated the hen theme within my new
where I would be painting night and day!.
logo and branding.
Where did the ceramic passion start? Throughout school I was very artistic and creative and spent every hour in the art department. I completed my advanced higher art and did very well with straight A’s. I continued my passion for art, attending Dundee college and started an HNC in illustration, but knew it was just too computer focused for me so I continued developing my portfolio for entrance into art college.
I completed my degree in Edinburgh and had a real passion for renewable
How long has Michelle Morton being going?
Favourite Place?
energy when I finished. I successfully
My favourite place is Tiree in the Outer
got a job in Aberfeldy at Griffin Wind
Hebrides. The never ending white beaches
Farm, co-ordinating the environmental
and turquoise water never gets boring
team and loved it as I was out and about
and, as an artist, it provides me with some
learning lots and was fascinated with both
great inspiration. The little cottages, wild
the environment and the construction
flowers and birds are amazing to see, the
process. I spent 8 years working with
feeling of remoteness and that sense
SSE and worked my way up looking after
of being almost backwards has a lovely
some of the biggest wind farm projects in
uniqueness to it. No one seems to care
Scotland.
what time it is, well, apart from the ferry
I was working away from home a lot through 2013/2014 and spending many
times!.
47
48 Art & creativity
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
What inspires you? My previous art teacher at school, Michael Alexander, was
What are your painting styles?
a big part of my life throughout school and growing up in
My still life paintings capture
my teenage years. He taught me a lot! I still remember
the strong colours and
many of these things and continue to incorporate them
lines of fruit, kitchen ware
into my work today.
and flowers, whilst my
I love the beauty of Emma Bridgewater’s work, the
watercolours are delicate and dainty and much more
style of artist and printer Angela Harding and the colour
subtle. My ceramic style of painting is quite a contrast to my
that Jolomo uses.
still life paintings. My paintings are far more free flowing and loose than some of my detailed ceramic painting, which is
What themes do you pursue?
more delicate.
Staying on a farm in Perthshire I have many fields full of ideas and colours, animals and flowers to look at which are a strong inspiration and are incorporated throughout many of my paintings and pieces today. I love very delicate things such as feathers and flowers and capture this detail within my work. I also love to pick out certain elements in things (a poppy head for example) and enhance them. My studio has the biggest piece of glass ever! I look out from this window everyday whilst working. It provides a beautiful backdrop for inspiration and is the perfect place to paint from with the changes in both colours and seasons.
What is an artistic outlook on life? To make the most of what you see everyday, Scotland is a beautiful place and I get so many ideas pottering about outside at the farm. Around Perthshire my mind never stops thinking and being creative. I do try to capture as many memories as possible through my painting. Enjoy life as much as you can and ensuring a balance is achievable. I love to make people happy by painting something special for them and love to see my work displayed in people’s personal spaces. This can be quite touching.
delightfully “ Her unique one-off designs are truly stunning” Laura Thomas, Interior Design Blog
Support Dairy Farmers Campaign A collection of products I have been working on for the “Support Dairy farmers Campaign” with the NFU.
HELPING CREATIVES STAY CREATIVE!
Art & creativity
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
My life “inspires my
49
PHOTOGRAPHY BY EILIDH ROBERTSON
overall style and subject of my art”
Country Collection Inspired by the Scottish shooting season, a strong passion for my father and my partner.
What are you working on just now? Currently I am finalising new designs ready for my website, which will be being launched later in Autumn 2015. I am also working on ceramic lines for retailers and farm shops and a campaign to support local milk producers. I have also been
busy working on packaging and branding
in my studio and I am hosting painting
designs with graphic designers.
classes every month in the studio.
I get asked to do many commissions,
You can follow Michelle’s work
wedding presents, house platters and milk
on Facebook, facebook.com/
cartons, which are very popular indeed. I
michellemortondesigns and the
have had orders from London and America
Perthshire Open Studios for opening
recently and hope to expand this when my
times, updates and directions,
website is live. I have just started teaching
facebook.com/perthshireopenstudios
Nautical Themed Jugs Hand painted and Inspired by the seashore, seabirds and beach houses.
Primrose Florals A lovely hand painted pretty little range inspired by Primroses from the garden.
50 Things to see
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
Out of the
Earth
Roy Cameron showing his Bronze Age torc to the public; detail of copper ore from a local mine.
CELEBRATING PERTH & KINROSS ARCHAEOLOGY MONTH
E
ach year the Crannog Crew
tree trunk. Pot-making was led by master
pottery workshop on Sunday which were
looks forward to June, a
craftsman Graham Taylor, who helped
booked separately.
month in which we wel-
visitors shape clay into small Neolithic
come summer with Solstice
and Bronze Age style pots. For those who
Perth & Kinross Archaeology Month has been coordinated by PKHT since 2003. The annual
celebrations, cultivate our Celtic garden and pay tribute to the wealth of heritage sites in our midst with special events for Perth & Kinross
programme ran
A selection of Bronze Age
throughout June
tools used in our event.
and featured guided walks,
Archaeology Month.
talks, excava-
The month concluded with our special experimental archaeology
tions and special
weekend event, ‘Out of the Earth:
activities across
Crafting the Past from Discoveries
the region. There
Underwater’ with demonstrations
were many new
and hands-on opportunities for
events this year
adults and youngsters alike. Inspired
and two new
by prehistoric artefacts found in
explorer guides
crannog excavations and elsewhere
have been produced, focus-
across Scotland, our programme featured metalworking, woodworking and
wanted more time and tuition, Graham ran
ing on the Iron Age of Loch Tay and Loch
pot-making to create objects for use in the
a workshop on Bronze Age and Iron Age
Tummel and the Archaeology of Glenshee.
recreated Crannog in Loch Tay. The Cen-
pot-making, where participants created
Copies of the 2015 PAM programme,
tre’s metalworking team of Dirk Sporleder
their own prehistoric cooking pots and
together with the new guides, are free
and Roy Cameron
decorated them using replicas
and available from Visit Scotland Informa-
smelted ore and
from an ancient potter’s toolkit.
tion Centres, libraries and the Scottish
cast replica bronze
As early Iron Age pottery finds
Crannog Centre. For further details, please
axes and chisels to
from mainland Scotland are
visit www.pkht.org.uk. For details of other
show the process
often plain and crudely made, the
Crannog Centre events, please visit www.
of ancient tool-
majority of participants chose to
crannog.co.uk and our facebook pages or
making. Woodwork-
copy the more patterned forms
telephone 01887 830583.
ing, led by David
seen on Bronze Age vessels. The event ran from 11am-
Strachan of Perth & Kinross Herit-
5pm on the 27th and 28th June.
age Trust (PKHT),
Admissions included entry to all indoor and outdoor exhibits, the
demonstrated tools and experiments
Dirk Sporleder with freshly
Crannog, the ancient technology
with carving a solid
cast Bronze Age chisel in
tent and the experimental activi-
log ladder from a
sand mould.
ties, with the exception of the
The type of pots that were made at the event.
Things to see
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
WIN A CRANNOG EXPERIENCE Send us your favourite Crannog photos and you could win a tour of the Crannog for two plus one hour cooking experience using a clay oven AND get your image published in The Heartland Buzz!
CLOSING DATE 31ST AUGUST
SEND YOUR IMAGES TO INFO@CRANNOG.CO.UK MAX. FILE SIZE 3Mb
We will be showcasing the winner and some of the best images in the issue of The Heartland Buzz AFTER the closing date. Open to over 16’s | Colour images only | Open to professional and amateur | Digital images only | No people unless the image is accompanied by letters of consent allowing reproduction of the images | We have right to reproduce photographs in The Heartland Buzz and Crannog social media/web pages. Crannog Image ©Angus Clyne. All other images © Scottish Crannog Centre.
10.00am to 2.00pm in Aberfeldy Town Square 1st Sunday of the Month, May to October Showcasing the very best of Perthshire’s famous food larder
Aberfeldy’s own independent food stores, shops & cafés will also be open, along with other attractions in & around the town for all the family to enjoy.
Why not come along and make a day of it. www.visitaberfeldy.co.uk
For further details contact Fiona MacEwan
T: 01887 829 343 M:0799 0834 092
E: aberfeldymarket@btopenworld.com
ASBA (Aberfeldy Small Business Association)
51
Thyme at Errichel is a stunning, fully licensed Restaurant with Rooms, & Luxury Holiday Cottages with spectacular views near Aberfeldy.
EST
OUR B
Stay Dine Celebrate Create Shop Tel: 01887 820850 enquiries@errichel.co.uk www.errichel.co.uk Errichel, Crieff Road, Aberfeldy, Perthshire, Scotland. PH15 2EL
Health & fitness
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
Ouch, My Back T
here are many causes of pain, or loss of function of muscles and joints, and that is why your chiropractor or osteopath is fully trained to diagnose and treat where appropriate. Both professions are regulated, state registered and require their members’ to be fully insured. Much of the pain comes from muscles, which are rich in pain sensitive nerves, and form the first line of defence when the joints need protection. They also inform the brain of real or potential problems. The fine balance between muscles at rest and muscles at work becomes scrambled, the body may be pulled out of alignment and other pains may start to develop as muscles try to compensate. The trigger to all this may have started long before, and may relate to an old injury, unaccustomed activity, too long in one position, dietary problems, a virus infection – or something more serious on a few occasions. That is why taking a patient history is so important in order to diagnose. Just taking pain relievers, or anti-inflammatories, is not sorting the problem, but is sometimes enough to give the body respite to sort itself out. Getting to know your body, and looking
‘My back has gone’, ‘I’ve trapped a nerve, or slipped a disc’. ‘Maybe it’s sciatica, or perhaps I’ve pulled a muscle’. AS A CHIROPRACTOR I HEAR ALL SORTS OF EXPLANATIONS FOR SUDDEN, SHARP PAIN AND MUSCLE SPASM THAT HAS SOMETIMES ARRIVED OUT OF THE BLUE. QUITE OFTEN SUFFERERS ARE UNAWARE OF DOING ANYTHING TO PROVOKE THE PROBLEM.
after it, saves a lot of trouble (and the NHS money!) Self-help in the form of exercise, like a good brisk walk, stretching (as in yoga), or core muscle strengthening (as in Pilates) is recommended. Understanding when your pain comes on, or how it is relieved can help you and your practitioner. When is it worse? Does it relate to sitting, walking, standing, lying, etc? Does it seem to relate to footwear, activity or rest? Awareness of general health, like recurrent digestive problems, can be relevant too. And if you can’t sort this out a chiropractor might be able to help. I was an NHS trained physiotherapist and, after 10 years in the health service, took myself to Chiropractic College back in the early 80s. Since then I have also used a method called Applied Kinesiology throughout my years of practice. This helps to give me a broad, holistic approach to my work. Manipulation may not be appropriate, or tolerated, by the patient. I might refer you back to your doctor, suggest acupuncture, or prescribe supplements for example. One session may suffice, but follow up is usually necessary, and the treatment approach can be discussed. If you require any further information then please feel free to get in touch.
PATRICIA WAITE I am available at Offizone, Kenmore Street, Aberfeldy on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, by appointment only. Please call 07808 223 960 (office) or 01887 820050 (home).
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54 Art & creativity
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
Fortingall Art Exhibition
2015 SUMMER EXHIBITION
FREE ENTRY
“Amazing, inspirational, something for everyone”
Open daily for the two weeks 10am – 6pm Molteno Hall, Fortingall, Perthshire. PH15 2LW
Fortingall Art is Highland Perthshire’s most prestigious annual art exhibition, held every summer since 2004, in the village of Fortingall. Set up and still run by local artists, the exhibition features selected paintings, photography, print, sculpture, ceramics, jewellery and bespoke furniture in a stunning rural setting. This year work by over 30 Artists is on show and features several newcomers, as well as many regular exhibitors. Fortingall Art is a not for profit organisation run by volunteers and aimed to support the local artists it features. All proceeds from sales are put back into improving the exhibition year on year. The village of Fortingall is famed for its 5000 year old yew tree, thought to be the oldest yew tree in Europe, and also for its unique architecture, designed by James McLaren. Fortingall is also the perfect jumping off point to explore the wilder areas of Highland Perthshire, with Glen Lyon and Loch Tay nearby. An important feature of the Exhibition is the Mini Art Competition. Local Schools and individuals are invited to produce CD sized pieces of Artwork, within six age groups, for inclusion in the competition. Regularly attracting over 400 entries, it is a challenging task for the judges to decide the winners from the many inspiring artworks. All the entries are exhibited, which creates a stunning display enjoyed by all. Now an established highlight in Perthshire’s cultural calendar, Fortingall Art Exhibition draws over 1500 visitors from all over the UK every year. Held in the unique ‘arts and crafts’ Molteno Hall, the exhibitions venue is as distinctive as the quality of the art it features.
SATURDAY 25TH JULY TO SUNDAY 9TH AUGUST
56 Sport & events
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
After months of negotiations, lots of preparation and some great support from the National Trust for Scotland, Perthshire saw its first ski competition on Ben Lawers for almost 60 years.
Lawers of Gravity On the Saturday morning of 11th April the inaugural “Lawers of Gravity” freeride competition brought off-piste skiers and boarders from right across the country, and even from Europe, to the South East facing slopes of Meall Nan Tarmachan in the Ben Lawers Range. This was to be Scotland’s very first “Hike and Ride” snowsports event, forming part of the annual SCOTTISH FREEDOM SERIES – a series of freeride events held around the country on different mountains. Freeride? What’s that all about then… well it’s simply skiing or snowboarding on steep, natural, un-groomed terrain, without a set course, goals or rules. Freeriding offers complete freedom for the skier, or boarder, to make the most of whatever terrain comes their way.
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
Sport & events
57
This was Scotland’s first hike and ride event in a non lift-served ski area and it is hoped that not only will the Lawers of Gravity become an regular annual event, but that other hike and rise events can be established at some of the other fantastic off piste areas. Thanks go out to the sponsors, Zag, Rossignol, Scarpa, Black Crows, Freegun, BCA, Dynafit and Teko for providing great prizes and funding the series. Each individual rider’s route varies, and is meticulously planned and executed to ensure they maximise scores from the on-looking judges, who award points for the choice of line, the fluidity of the ride, the technique demonstrated and the control, air and style. Constantly changing weather and snow conditions add extra challenges to riders, who might find themselves riding from sheet ice onto soft powder in both snow showers and sunshine, all in one single run down the mountain. So on the Saturday morning at the base of Meall nan Tarmachan, by the dam, the 40 to 55mph winds blew and snow showers battered the car park. The weather was not looking particularly favourable! Despite the conditions, competitor and event team spirits were high, as this was the final deciding event that would separate this year’s series winners from the rest of the pack. All 30 competitors had shown up, so the decision was made by Snowsport Scotland’s Iain Ramsay-Clapham and Iain Fitzpatrick from “Zag” freeride skis uk to press ahead. Registration was completed and skiers and boarders were issued with their competition bib numbers. All competitors started their hike up the mountain with a crossing of the dam and then up the 700+ meter, 45 degree ascent. At the top of the first plateau the organisers selected a suitable competition start area and a competitor briefing confirmed that the entire field would receive 2 runs, the cores of which would be added together to determine their
final ranking. The start flags were placed and the judges skied the face to ascertain the difficulty and technicality of the face, before settling down to start judging from their vantage point. Within moments the first rider was given the all clear to go, but just at that point the visibility dropped to zero with giant snowflakes being blown horizontally. Everybody just had to curl up and ride out the blizzard. Ten minutes later the visibility returned offering the judges a clear line of sight to the top of the mountain. First out of the start gate was snowboarder Laura Donaldson. Being the first rider on the face she had virtually unblemished super smooth snow conditions. Wisely, Laura chose a line that offered snow all the way to the bottom of the face, taking a clear route all the way down to the bottom, past the judges. Skiing just on snow was, however, not to
be the order of the day, as some of the top male riders sought to pick more adventurous and expressive lines across grass and 20/30ft vertical rock faces. So this was to be the form for an afternoon that soon offered light winds and blue skies. As riders completed their runs they gathered at the finish to cheer on the competition, before then climbing back to the top for their second judged runs. After all runs were concluded competitors made their way back down the mountain under a gentle flurry of two pence size snow drops, giving a nice atmosphere to the end of the event. With equipment stowed back in vehicles, it was onward to the Killin Hotel for prize giving. Great banter and chat ensued in the bar as the judges deliberated over their results, and finally the announcements were ready to be made. Full results and event details are available at www.freedomseries.co.uk
58 Gardening
D
Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place! The Heartland Buzz
id you know that some garden plants deserve medals? I’d nominate the Candelabra Primrose for a medal for its survivalist tendencies! It’s an Asiatic primula and there are many different
species and hybrids such as Primula japonica, Primula x bulleesiania, Primula bulleyana and Primula chungensis. It’s extremely hardy; extremely forgiving when grown in damp clay soil and extremely happy to grow in the shade. I’m sure the majority of us have problem areas in our gardens; whether its deer, rabbits, deep shade, or in my case, badly draining clay soil. Over the years I’ve improved most of the soil in my garden except for one cold north facing border. In hindsight, this should have been my first project from the moment we moved in… but being an ‘impatient’ gardener I planted the
by Rosie Nixon
area with my favourite shade loving plants. Then
who can be found
over a few subsequent
writing about her own
wet summers and winters
Perthshire garden at
I watched them turn into
leavesnbloom.com
garden casualties. I learned a valuable and expensive
lesson back then – only grow plants that can cope with your garden soil! The Candelabra primrose is one of my few survivors. It thrives in the damp clay soil and happily self-seeds all over the border. From a ground hugging rosette of leaves appear tall stems with about 6 tiered whorls of flower buds. When the bottom whorl of lightly scented flowers have been pollinated then the whorl above opens its flowers; so you end up with flowers from mid-May until the end of June.
How to grow
Plant in partial shade, though ideal for a bog garden in full sun, or along a stream.
Needs rich moisture retentive neutral – acid soil.
Flowers May – June in colours ranging from pink to shades of terracotta.
Fully hardy.
Divide large clumps after flowering and give the new divisions plenty of water while they establish.
They lose their leaves in winter.
HEIGHT 30-60cm
THE CANDELABRA PRIMROSE
EASY TO GROW
Reviews
The Heartland Buzz Highland Perthshire’s Hive of Activity all in One Place!
The Monthly Book Review Dacre’s War
Nature’s Architect
Rosemary Goring
Jim Crumley
Published by Birlinn
Published by Saraband, 16th July
THESE AND THE BEST OF NEW BOOKS ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE WATERMILL
100 Masterpieces from the National Galleries of Scotland John Leighton Published by National Galleries of Scotland
£14.99
£12.99
HARDBACK
£24.95
Dacre’s War is a story of personal and political vengeance. Set ten years after the battle of Flodden, Adam Crozier, head of his clan and of an increasingly powerful alliance of Borderers, learns for sure that it was Lord Thomas Dacre - now the most powerful man in the north of England who ordered his father’s murder. He determines to take his revenge. As a fighting man, Crozier would like nothing
Hundreds of years after their extinction in these isles, beavers are back in Britain. These highly skilled engineers of the natural world have been reintroduced at several sites across the UK and, even as they become established, are already having a dramatic effect on our wild landscapes. Here, leading nature writer Jim
art, encompassing artists as diverse as Titian and Francis Bacon; Warhol, Hockney and Pablo Picasso. This lavishly illustrated
Employing his trademark beautiful prose
book,
and empathy
contains
for life in the
more
wild, Crumley
than two
considers
hundred
the future
he must use more subtle methods. So he
for Britain’s
sets out to engineer Dacre’s downfall by
beavers and
turning the machinery of the English court
makes the case
against him. A vivid and fast-moving tale
for giving them
of political intrigue and heartache, Dacre’s
their freedom.
War is set against the backdrop of the
Jim
Scottish and English borders, a land where
28 July, 7pm. Tickets £3 from The Watermill.
many of the greatest names in Western
impact of the beaver reintroductions.
face but his wife Louise advises him that
‘Dacre’s War’ at The Watermill, Wednesday
galleries in the world. Its collection includes
and considers the ecological and economic
down face to
with ‘Herald’ Editor Alan Taylor about
widely regarded as one of the finest small
these intriguing and secretive creatures
bring Dacre
Hear Rosemary Goring in conversation
The National Galleries of Scotland is
Crumley reveals the pioneering lifestyle of
better than to
there is never any chance of peace.
PAPERBACK
Crumley will be talking about and signing copies of’’Nature’s Architect’ at The Watermill on Thursday 23rd July at 7pm. Tickets £3 from The Watermill.
of the National Galleries of Scotland’s greatest and best-loved treasures, each accompanied by an informative text written by the Galleries’ curators. Not only does this book provide a fascinating introduction to the national collection but it is also an accessible and informative introduction to the history of art and the interplay between Scottish and international art.
What’s On at The Watermill Thursday 23rd July, 7pm Award winning nature writer Jim Crumley talks about his new book ‘Nature’s Architect’. Wednesday 29th July, 7pm Rosemary Goring in conversation with ‘Herald’ Editor Alan Taylor about her new book Dacre’s War. 13th June - 28th July Zanna Wilson ‘Travelling the Crieff Road’ art exhibition. Watercolour paintings inspired by a daily journey on the 23 mile moorland road between Aberfeldy and Crieff. 1st August - 16th September Jane Hunter ‘The Cloth – The Land – The Earth ll’ art exhibition. The geology of the Highlands interpreted in freehand embroidery and appliqué using Harris Tweed and other Scottish textiles. The Watermill, Mill Street, Aberfeldy, PH15 2BG t. 01887 822896
61
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FREE professional advert design service with advert purchase.
•
FREE advertising, editorials & exposure for new small businesses*
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Advice and guidance on advert design from experienced professionals.
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Over 14 years graphic design & advertising experience.
LOOKING FOR SOMETHING A LITTLE UNIQUE?
The small business pack.
The large business pack.
Door to door mail drop.
A double page spread split editorial & advertising plus a further HALF page advert in the magazine.
A double page spread split editorial & advertising plus a further FULL page advert in the magazine.
We also offer a monthly door drop service that we can arrange alongside our magazine drop date. We offer competitive prices beating other companies in price every time.
£499
£549
£POA
+ VAT
+ VAT
The cost effective flyer pack.
The luxury flyer pack.
The informative flyer pack.
5000 x A5 double sided 115gsm gloss A5 flyers designed, printed, packaged alongside The Heartland Buzz and delivered direct to businesses & homes throughout the Heartland.
5000 x A5 double sided luxury 250gsm silk flyers designed, printed, packaged alongside The Heartland Buzz and delivered direct to businesses and homes throughout the Heartland.
5000 x 4pg 115gsm gloss A5 flyer booklets designed, printed, packaged alongside The Heartland Buzz and delivered direct to businesses & homes throughout the Heartland.
£319
£389
£539
£299 / 3 month block booking
£369 / 3 month block booking
£519 / 3 month block booking
Cancellation: Cancellation fees apply for all advertising. Prices subject to change without further notice. Payment Terms: All our prices are +VAT. We invoice on booking of adverts and payment is due before our magazine goes to print or you risk losing your adverting spot. Payment can be made by BACS, cheque or PayPal. All our prices are + VAT. Prices are subject to change without notice. Website, graphic design & adverts by www.z3ro.co.uk. We reserve the right to refuse any material that we may find offensive or unsuitable for publication. Please NOTE: After sign off, if the items contain errors of text, spelling, numerical errors to telephone numbers or contain any error relating to the content, this is the SOLE RESPONSIBILITY of the client and not The Heartland Buzz. In the event of an error, the TOTAL COSTS INCURRED will be the RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CLIENT and not The Heartland Buzz. Even if the errors are from The Heartland Buzz it is still the responsibility of the client to identify these upon preview presentation. Spelling and Grammatical errors are part of the sign off process and if an item is printed/published with these kind of errors after sign off from you the client, it is not the responsibility of The Heartland Buzz. *Plus VAT **We select small businesses that we believe are beneficial to the community. If we feel your business is for the greater good of the community then we want to promote your business and help you get going. This offer is not open for ALL small businesses, however if you feel your business is something special or quirky then we would love to hear from you! This offer is only available once per business. We are a creative magazine at heart, calling all creative individuals... we want to help you too!
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HIGHLAND SAFARIS
VISITOR ATTRACTION
Safaris • Red Deer Centre • Café • Trail Centre ABERFELDY • PERTHSHIRE • SCOTLAND
Open all Year!
Best Visitors Experience ASVA 2012
Book your Land Rover Safari on 01887 820071 or visit www.highlandsafaris.net
land rov er safaris Award Winning Experiences Choose a Safari option & explore these awe-inspiring mountains to experience ‘A unique journey of discovery’
eat and
shop
Tasty Food & Imaginative Gifts Set in a stunning location our cafe serves delicious homemade lunches, cakes & coffee, original gifts & outdoor gear. Play Area & Tractor Park.
discover
trail cen
tre
y
Red Deer Centre and Gold and Gem Panning Come face to face with Britain’s largest land mammal and meet our beautiful Barn Owl. Walk the Discovery Trail and have fun panning for Gold and Gems.
Walking & Biking Woodland walks, biking trails, route maps, bike hire, bike wash, “Drop at the Top” Safaris & our MTB Skills Loop.
Aberfeldy Perthshire PH15 2JQ Tel: 01887 820071 www.highlandsafaris.net info@highlandsafaris.net