SpotLight on Elgin & Lossie - March 2011 Issue

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MARCH 2011

FREE

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SpotLight

on Elgin, Lossie and district

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...information on your community

The North’s Favourite FREE wee mag’! In this issue...... Clubs & Societies 3 The Elgin Marvels 4 Pastoral Letter 6 Tide Times 6 Church Details 8 Vikings 10 Council News 12/22 Whatʟs On 17/18/20

Cinema Listings Parliament Blog ChefĘźs Confidential School Term Dates Useful Contacts Local Holidays Advertisers Index Green Dog Walkers

APRIL ISSUE Editorial Deadline - Friday 4th March Advertising Deadline - Wednesday 9th March

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SpotLight I.T. Blog

Clubs and Societies

Picture by Natalie Hunt, Copyright

Facebook Fun

How many of you out there are using Facebook? Iʼve personally found it a great tool for connecting with family members and friends that I donʼt see every day, however it is a security nightmare. Anytime you download a new app or game it wants to access your personal data and that of your friends, then once you stop using the app, if you donʼt remove it, then it will continue to have access to that data while you forget that it was even there in the first place. I can strongly recommend going into your privacy settings and spending ten minutes to go through all the options carefully. In particular watch out for the hidden ones, such as your DOB which is in your profile and make sure that it isnʼt available to everyone, otherwise you will be giving away a key piece of info about yourself. Remember that prospective employers or business associates may well “Google” you to find out a bit more, do you really want your Facebook profile showing up? It will by default and it may present a view of you that is perfectly suitable for Friends and Family, but is less than desirable for business purposes. It also doesnʼt help that Facebook periodically change their security settings, so keep an eye on any notices from them and once in a while pop back and double check them, just to be sure.

LAICH OF MORAY TRUST The bus provides transport for elderly, infirm and disabled within Moray e.g. Day care, Lunch Club, Sports Club, Church etc. Mainly within Moray, but sometimes further. Contact Rosie Burnett 544987

MEN’S CHOIR A new choir just for men. All kinds of music. Meets fortnightly at St. John’s Church, Forres. Alternate Tuesdays 7.30pm9.30pm. No experience necessary. For more details contact Bill tel: 01309 672951

LHANBRYDE DISABLED CLUB Meets every Thursday from 1.30pm - 3.30pm, for games, bingo and outings, Lhanbryde Village Hall. Contact Mary Law 843044

MORAY BUSINESS WOMEN An informal club for women within the Moray area who have an interest in business, networking, sharing information and general socialising. Meetings are held on the first Thursday of every month. For more information, tel: Michelle on 07887 730708 or e-mail us at tina.mason52@yahoo.com

LHANBRYDE INDOOR BOWLING CLUB Promotes the game of indoor bowling, both sociable and competitive, meets September to April on Mondays and Thursdays from 7pm-10pm. Contact Ella Harley 814224 / 843194 LOSSIEMOUTH BOWLING CLUB St Gerardine’s Road, Lossie tel: 813766 LOSSIEMOUTH CRUISING CLUB An active club with full programme of races & musters during the season. Come & along and chat with members crews always required. Contact sally skalke or john jones tel: 07840 198871, visit www.lossiecc.co.uk or email sallyskalke@tiscali.co.uk LOSSIE FOLK CLUB meets every Tuesday at 8.30pm in the Beach Bar, Lossiemouth

MORAY CAMERA CLUB Meets every Monday 7.30pm 9.30pm September to May, Elgin Library. Contact Rae Munro 544956 www.moraycameraclub.co.uk MORAY CEILIDH CLUB It's informal! It's fun! It's a great night out! Everyone welcome! Great dancing in a traditional village hall environment. Dances will be explained for beginners ..and those members who cannot remember! Bring your own booze. Contact Steve Coomber on 541983 or visit www.moraycc.org MORAY & NAIRN FLORAL ART CLUB Enjoy flowers? Come and watch talented flower demonstrators at work. Meets 2nd Wednesday each month Applegrove Primary

School Contact May Bichan tel: 01343 850634 MORAY JAZZ CLUB Meets at Joanna’s, Elgin every Thursday from 8pm to 10.30pm, doors open at 7.30pm. Admission is £5 for nonmembers and everyone is welcome. Visit our website www.morayjazzclub.co.uk or email mjc@morayjazzclub.co.uk MORAY PHILATELIC SOCIETY Regular meetings and exchange of information on the various aspects of philately. Contact Brian J. Goodwin 545391 or email brian184@btinternet.com MORAY ROADRUNNERS Welcomes new members of all abilities, seniors Wednesday 6.30pm Elgin Community Centre, juniors Tuesday & Thursday 6pm Morriston Playing Fields. Please visit website for more details & contacts www.morayroadrunners.com ROTARY CLUB OF ELGIN Meets every Thursday 12.30pm for 1pm at the Mansion House Hotel. Contact Brodie Ross 01309 696272 WESTERN FRONT ASSOCIATION We hold 9 meetings per year (on Saturday afternoons) in Elgin Library open to anyone with an interest in the First World War. Contact Derek Bird on 01343 870562 or email at chairman.wfasnb@virgin.net www.wfascotlandnorth.org.uk

If you would like details of your club or society included in this section please let us know. All club listings are free. Not all clubs will be listed every issue.

SpotLight on Elgin & Lossie is published by Winterburn Media Ltd, Comraich, Woodside Farm, Kinloss IV36 3UA All material contained within the SpotLight magazines is subject to formal copyright restrictions and therefore the reproduction of any listings, editorial, advertiser artwork or any other content, without the publishers prior consent, will be considered a breach of copyright. All rates are per month plus VAT and based on a Black & White 12 month series. Call 01309 690063 for more details.

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SAMPLE ADVERT RATES Box £38 Big Box £71 ¼ Page £129 ½ Page £244 Business Profile £416 Full Page £461 Enhanced Listings in Whatʼs On pages from £41 March 2011 - page 3

The Elgin Marvels Fossil Reptiles & Footprints Not to be confused with the Elgin Marbles, the Elgin ʻMarvelsʼ actually come from Elgin! They are 250 million year old fossil reptiles, and their footprints, that were collected from old sandstone quarries, mostly over a century ago. Dr Neil Clark, Curator of Palaeontology at the Hunterian Museum in Glasgow, provides a fascinating insight into our local history. Carol Hopkins, a student at a 1996 Open University Summer School in Edinburgh, had visited the local Clashach quarry at Hopeman and found a vast number of footprints being excavated. The quarry had recently been re-opened to supply stone for the facing of the new Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh. By 1997, Carol had investigated over 200 footprints and trackways!

The animals responsible for making these footprints are thought to have been mammal-like reptiles. Fossil skeletons of these animals were known from the nearby Cuttieʼs Hillock west of Elgin and can be seen displayed in the Elgin Museum.

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probably not the best way to investigate the cavity as it would damage the fossil so I removed the rock to Glasgow for further research using modern medical techniques. With the help of Calum Adams, a consultant radiologist, at the Western Infirmary in Glasgow and the Royal Alexandra in Paisley, we scanned the hole in the rock using both CT and MRI. It was not easy scanning through such a thickness of rock and the machine had to be tweaked close to its limits. As the CT produced its first scan, we saw something I was not expecting. We saw a difficult to interpret complex network of cavities.

When all the scans were collected and stacked into a 3D image, the nature of the hole in the rock became clear. It was the entire skull of a mammal-like reptile! After this, the rock was placed in a plastic box and filled with fluid to make the MRI scanning work. The whole process was so unusual that the BBC filmed an episode of Tomorrowʼs World on this novel technique of analysing cavity fossils in a non-destructive manner.

Research by Arthur Cruickshank, an expert in such animals, showed that the skull was identical to a known animal from Cuttieʼs Hillock called Dicynodon (Gordonia) traquairi. Because of this discovery, we now know that the age of the Hopeman sandstones is the same age as the Cuttieʼs Hillock sandstones closer to Elgin - 250 million years old.

Also in 1997, Bill George, who worked in the quarry at Clashach, found a rock with an intriguing hole in it. It was immediately thought this may be a cavity left by bones dissolved by acid waters. No recognisable fossil bones had ever been found in the Hopeman sandstone so this discovery was potentially an extremely important one, as the age of the sandstone at Hopeman was not known with any certainty.

At that time, there was really only one way to deal with cavity fossils; to fill the cavity with rubber and smash it open with a hammer to remove the dried rubber. I decided this was page 4 - March 2011

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3D Image of the Skull

In March 1998, the quarrying was increased which put a number of critical footprints at risk of being destroyed. The Moray Stone Cutters kindly offered to move the slabs of sandstone containing footprints to a convenient spot, forming an amphitheatre close to the Moray Coastal Trail near Hopeman.

If you are interested in fossils from the Elgin area, or finding out more about other fossils, please visit the Elgin Museum www.elginmuseum.org.uk SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District

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SpotLight Pastoral letter and Tide Times

Picture by Karen Barclay, Copyright

Just over one year on from the earthquake that devastated Haiti, the massive aid effort has yet to bring stability to the country as cholera, rape and despair take hold. In the centre of Port-au-Prince, the presidential palace still lies in ruins. What was a large, green open space just beyond the palace grounds is nothing but a sea of tents. After all this time, the piles of rocks, wood and mangled metal that were once homes and offices still line the streets. Mountains of it fester between the homes that were spared, like rotten teeth. “We are living in mud, we are living in garbage” said August Cassandra. Here described is one example of poverty described from within our global community. Throughout our world people are starving, thirsty, dying of preventable diseases, homeless etc. Often because of natural disaster, sometimes because of injustice or government corruption, are just some of the reasons why. Sadly too often we are quick to forget.

LOW TIDE TIMES FOR LOSSIE IN MARCH Walking on the beach should be possible 2 hours either side of these times AM PM 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

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03.38 04.22 04.58 05.31 06.01 06.31 06.59

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Although it can be different, there are many social problems locally as well as globally The biggest ever antipoverty movement came together under the banner of MAKEPOVERTYHISTORY in 2005. Great steps forward were made, but the fight against poverty continues. Mother Teresa when asked why she spent so much time among the poor said this: “Each one of them is Jesus in disguise.” Nelson Mandela in a speech given on his 90th birthday challenged the people of South Africa to consider those in poverty. “There are many people in South Africa who are rich and who can share those riches with those not so fortunate who have not been able to conquer poverty.” Jesus, God’s son, was someone who had a heart for the poor. Jesus brought healing to broken lives, Jesus fed the poor. Jesus made time for needy people. Jesus calls us to do likewise. Matthew 25v34-40 says “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the

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kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ 37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Let us as people seek to make poverty history as we reflect on Jesus words “whatever you do for the least of these you do for me.” “If a person shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.”- Proverbs 21:13 Rev. Rae McKenzie Lossiemouth Baptist Church

20 SU 21 M 22 TU 23 W 24 TH 25 F 26 SA 27 SU 28 M 29 TU 30 W 31 TH

AM 05.49 06.31 07.12 07.55 08.42 09.35 10.43 01.46 03.13 04.13 04.55

PM 18.18 19.00 19.42 20.25 21.12 22.06 23.16 13.10 14.47 15.57 16.45 17.22

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Lossiemouth Baptist Church meets every Sunday 9.30am, 11.30am and 6pm. Junior Church Sunday 11.30am and Kids Church (P4-P7) Thursdays 6.15pm-8pm. Contact Rev. Rae Mackenzie 812062 www.lossiebaptist.org Lossiemouth United Free Church of Scotland meets Sunday 11am and 6pm, including Sunday School. Contact Rev. Alexander Ritchie 810262 www.ufcos.org.uk/lossie St James Church of Scotland, Lossiemouth Family Worship 11am including creche and Sunday School; Evening Service 6pm; Swordfish Youth Group 7pm. Contact Rev. Graham Crawford 07817 504042 St Margaret’s Church, Lossiemouth Family Eucharist 9.30am; Holy Communion 10am Thursdays; Evening Prayer 5pm Thursdays St Gerardines High Church Lossiemouth, Family Worship Sunday 11am; Evening Service 6pm last Sunday in Month. Contact 813146 St Sylvester's Catholic Church, Elgin Vigil Mass Saturday 7pm; Sunday Mass 11.45am. Contact 542280 www.stsylvesters.net Lossiemouth Gospel Hall meets every Sunday for Sunday Club at 9.30am, Gospel Meeting at 6.30pm. Further details 812987 or visit the website at www.lossiemouthgospelhall.org.uk Burghead Church Every Sunday at

11.30am. Contact 01309 690931 Hopeman Baptist Church meets every Sunday 11am & 6pm. Everyone welcome. Contact Rev. S.J. Macdonald 831175 or visit the website www.hopemanbaptist.org.uk Parish of Duffus, Spynie and Hopeman First Sunday of each month, one service (10.30 a.m.) in Hopeman if five Sundays in the month, all other Sundays Hopeman 10am, Duffus or Spynie 11.30am. Contact Rev. Bruce Lawrie 830276 or email: blawrie@zetnet.co.uk Birnie - Pluscarden Church Sunday Service Pluscarden 10am and Evening Service 6.30pm 3rd Sunday each month; Birnie 11.30am and Evening Service 6.30pm 1st Sunday each month Scottish Episcopal Church Holy Trinity, Elgin Sunday Services - 8am Holy Communion; 11am Family Eucharist; 6.30pm Evensong, tel: 547505 Elgin & Forres Free Church of Scotland Sunday Sevice 11am including Sunday School & Creche; Evening Service 6pm, Midweek Meeting Wednesday 7.30pm. Contact Colin Morrison 542196 Elgin Community Church Sunday Morning Service 10.30am; Evening Fellowship & Youth Group at 6pm. Contact 546654 Elgin City Church Every Sunday 10.30am at Elgin Community Centre childrens church & creche available. Contact 543624

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Elgin High Church Sunday 11am; Evening Service 2nd Sunday each month 6.30pm. Contact Rev. Julie Woods 542449 or email missjulie@btinternet.com Alves Church 1st Sunday of each month at 11.30am. Contact 01309 690931 St Giles & St Columba’s South, Elgin Sunday 9.30am at St Columba’s South & 11am at St Giles Church, Wednesday 7.30pm & Thursday 12.30pm at St. Giles Church. Rev. George Rollo 547208 www.elginstgiles.org Elgin Baptist Church Family Morning Worship (including creche), Sunday School and Bible Class 11am (1st Sunday each month at Seafield Primary); Evening Service 6pm; Youth Fellowship 7.30pm. Rev. Graham Swanson 547743 Moray Grace Fellowship Meets Sunday mornings 10.30am in Alves Village Hall. Contact Vic Cameron for more details tel. 850142 email vic.cameron2803@btinternet.com or at www.moraygrace.wordpress.com St Andrews-Lhanbryd & Urquhart Parish Church Morning Worship, including Young Church and CrÊche every Sunday at 11am. Evening Services on last Sunday of month at St Margaret's Hall, Urquhart at 7pm. Tel: Andrew Robertson 843765 If you are a member of a church not listed here please email us the details and we may print this in future issues.

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Vikings and Norse in the Moray Firth Where was the frontier? Viking pirates attacked areas of Scotland, as elsewhere in Western Europe, in the late 700Ęźs and continued sporadically for several hundred years. They favoured wealthy coastal settlements where their highly mobile fleets could accomplish swift grab and run raids. We know about the raids of monasteries, because monks elsewhere reported on these frightening marauders, but suspect that wealthy secular sites were also targeted. Not only precious objects were taken, but also people to be sold into slavery.

In the wake of these raids Scandinavians came and settled, in particular on the Northern and Western Isles, but also to Caithness and Sutherland. These areas were controlled by powerful chieftains, known as jarls or earls. Gradually over time the King of Norway obtained nominal overlordship over these Scottish Scandinavian settlers. Officially the Western Isles were part of Norway until 1266, and the Northern Isles until 1472, resulting in centuries of Scandinavian influence in these areas. Ideally the term Vikings is used to refer to the raiders, and Norse to the settlers.

The initial Scandinavian settlers were pagan and were buried with gravegoods in marked contrast to the native Christian Picts. Viking graves are known from Caithness, and there appear to be isolated remains of female and male graves from near Dunrobin Castle and Ospisdale near Dornoch. South of the Dornoch Firth there is very little archaeological evidence, and unfortunately none at all from Dingwall. A Viking silver hoard was deposited at Tarbat church, Portmahomack around 1000. Recently a small silver ingot fragment, similar to ones found in Viking silver hoards, was found by a metal detectorist near Dores. If it dates to the Norse period, it would provide hints of Norse use of the Great Glen. However, unfortunately silver ingots were used throughout history and into modern times, and because it was not excavated by archaeologists we are unable to determine the context or date. Another metal detector find, but of a more distinctive object allowing better dating, was found only last year at Ardersier. It is part of an openwork brooch or mount with page 10 - March 2011

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an interlaced animal. Brooches of this style were worn in Scandinavia and often date around c. 1150. This exciting find provides evidence of late encounters on the south side of the Moray Firth – but whether as a traded item or part of a short-lived settlement cannot be determined.

From these fragments of evidence, it is clear we cannot say anything with certainty about the southern frontier of the Vikings and Norse in the Moray Firth area south of the Dornoch Firth. I suspect that it was not static, and would have been a contested frontier area with its fertile agricultural land. It probably changed hands between Norse opportunists and the local powers, the original Pictish rulers (and possibly kings of Fortriu, if indeed this key late Pictish stronghold was situated on the Moray Firth as Alex Woolf has argued), and later the earls of Moray (who during the reign of MacBeth in the early 11th century controlled a vast area), depending on who was stronger at the time. Sometime in this period Dingwall presumably was the centre of Norse control, perhaps as Barbara Crawford has argued, as part of a strategy of the Earls of Orkney to gain timber from the Conon and Beauly rivers to bring back to Orkney.

Tantalising questions remain. What was the relationship between Norse and native in this area? Where were the Pictish and later native settlements especially to the north of Inverness? And of course, how much and in what way did this Norse settlement influence the local area? We can only hope that future archaeological discoveries will shed light on these issues.

Dr. Susan Kruse is a Viking archaeologist with interests in Viking silver hoards, economic systems, and the issues of frontiers. Currently she is a project officer with ARCH, Archaeology for Communities in the Highlands, providing a range of courses and events for people to learn about and preserve their local heritage. She is an Honorary Research Fellow with the University of the Highlands and Islands and a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.

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EXTRACTS FROM THE DRAFTMINUTES OF THE MEETING OF TUESDAY 11TH JANUARY 2011 OF THE CITY & ROYAL BURGH OF ELGIN COMMUNITY COUNCIL

Roads & Transportation • Murray Ross advised that a meeting with Lorna Davidson to discuss the Relief Roads proposed routes consultation has been arranged for Monday 24th January 2011 in the Council Chambers between 3-4pm. Eight members agreed to attend. The Chairman agreed to inform the Elgin North and Elgin South Area Forums. • Murray Ross advised that he would like to see the Moray Council encouraging members of the public to help grit their own roads and pavements during adverse weather conditions. He felt that in order to do this, more grit bins should be made available and the possibility of a stock pile of grit being available at a central location for members of the public to help themselves. Murray Ross agreed to investigate further. • George Littlejohn advised he was awaiting replies to various letters he had written to Ministers regarding the proposed changes to railway services, as agreed at the previous meeting. • George Littlejohn advised he had read an article in the Press & Journal stating that the long-distance 125 train service between Aberdeen/Inverness and London was to be retained. However, he is awaiting an official reply to his letter to Philip Hammond, MP (the UK Government Transport Secretary) regarding this issue.The Chairman agreed to inform the JCC of the proposed changes as they would affect the whole of Moray. • Murray Ross reported that he had emailed members a copy of the proposed amendments to the Elgin Town Centre Traffic Management Plan; should members have any concerns they could send their comments direct to the address stated on the letter. Murray

Ross advised that the C&RBoECC R&T Committee was happy with the changes.

Air Gun Legislation Following the possibility of Air Gun Laws being devolved to the Scottish Government, a lengthy discussion took place to gain views on this issue. All members present agreed that Air Guns should come under the same legislation as Fire Arms. The following actions were agreed that:• Bryan Watson and Gordon Methven would produce a report on the recommendations of C&RBoECC and pass to the Chairman, who would then gain the views of the JCC at its next meeting on the 14th February 2011. • Any proposals should go through the ASCC. • Support from Angus Robertson, MP, Richard Lochhead, MSP and Councillors would be sought. It was emphasised that Members were not in support of a total ban of Air Weapons - just greater control of their ownership and use. Community Notice Boards The following suggestions were put forward: • Obtain estimates from local carpenters - (solid wood with plastic lens). • Possibility of sponsorship from local businesses, dependent on location of Notice Board. • Possibility of using the one already located in the High Street. The Chairman agreed to pass Denise Gormley’s e-mail to Mary Wall in order to investigate further.

A.O.C.B. • Local Outdoor Forum. Following an email request for volunteers, Anne Glover

agreed to nominate a member of the Leisure Committee and to complete all the necessary paperwork. This was endorsed by the C&RBoECC. • Harry Torry felt that in view of Moray Council now charging to park in the open air public car parks they should be kept clear of snow/ice. Murray Ross agreed to take forward. • Bryan Watson stated he was very impressed by the work carried out in the opening off the High Street, opposite the M&S Simply Food store. Cllr Russell advised that this was completed by the Elgin Town Regeneration Fund. • Gordon Methven wished to raise concerns regarding the following issues:• Tailgating by young drivers on the A96 in Alexandra Road. • Drivers not stopping at the Pelican Crossings on the A96 and Bishopmill. Gordon Methven to mention his concerns to the Police at the next meeting. • Harry Torry felt that the lights situated in Bishopmill change too quickly from Green to Red when the button is pressed. Murray Ross advised that the lights were checked and found to be working correctly. • It was also felt that the lights on the A96 by Lossie Wynd take too long to change, leading to pedestrians crossing without waiting for the lights to change. The C&RBoECC R&T Committee agreed to discuss with BEAR Scotland. • Beautification Scheme. In view of the bad weather and the winter plants not surviving, it was agreed to plant winter bulbs only. Murray Ross agreed to take forward. CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

OTHER COMMUNITY COUNCIL CONTACTS

Heldon Community Council Meetings 15/3/11; 26/4/11; 7/6/11; 19/7/11; 30/8/11 and 18/10/11 - 7.30pm at Mosstowie Primary School. Contact: Angela Hyland (Secretary) tel: 545360 page 12 - March 2011

Burghead & Cummingston Community Council Meets first Thursday of every month (excluding July) 7.30pm at Burghead Harbour Masters Office. Contact: Chris Tuke (Secretary) tel: 835537

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2011

SpotLight What’s On

the

FEBRUARY 1-28 tuesday - monday exhibition on the people of moray, local heritage centre, institution road, elgin, tel: 01343 569011 or visit www.moray.gov.uk/localheritage ‘a cabinet of curiosities’, visit our exhibition of objects from all over the world designed to incite wonder, fascination, curiosity and perhaps even repulsion…, open 10am to 2pm, tuesday to saturday, free, tel: 673701 for more information.

22 tuesday famous people of moray by graeme wilson, 7pm, local heritage centre, institution road, elgin, for more details contact elgin library tel: 562600 or visit www.moray.gov.uk

24 thursday scottish opera, 7.30pm, universal hall, findhorn, £11/£5 concessions, tel: 01309 691170 for details

25 friday the moray society presents moray connections some famous moravians by mr alistair campbell, 7.30pm, elgin museum hall

Granary bar and club

Tel 01343 55175 14-18 Thunderton Place, Elgin

Friday 4th March - WKD PURPLE LAUNCH & DJ night ..free tasting ..from 9.00pm

AVAILABLE MON - THURS. Valid until 31 March 2011 Not valid with any other offer.

3 thursday 18th moray science festival - malt whisky nosing session by diageo, 7pm-9pm, the beechtree restaurant, moray college, tickets available at reception priced £10 from 6.45pm onwards, for more details contact sam bright tel: 576319 pure brass, 7:30pm, south room, gordonstoun school, nr elgin, £12/£6, visit our website www.thegcs.org.uk for details or tel: 01343 837917

4 friday

MARCH 1 tuesday to 4 friday

quiz night and raffle in aid of breast cancer care, 7pm, hopeman bowling club, telephone sarah on 07788 580987 for further details back to the future - ‘elgin in style’, 7.30pm, elgin town hall, showcasing a number of city centre businesses using drama, dance & live music, brought to you by elgin business improvement district (bid) and the out of the darkness theatre company, £7, visit www.elginbid.co.uk for more details

18th moray science festival on environmental wonders, moray college, elgin, for primary 6 & 7 pupils at all moray primary schools, interactive hands-on fun science sessions, for more details contact sam bright tel: 576319

1-31 tuesday - thursday old elgin in photographs, local heritage centre, institution road, elgin, tel: 569011 or visit www.moray.gov.uk/localheritage

5 saturday

1 tuesday book sale - sale of withdrawn library stock to include books, cd’s, videos, dvd’s all at bargain prices, 12noon-8pm, elgin library, tel: 562619

2 wednesday book sale - sale of withdrawn library stock to include books, cd’s, videos, dvd’s all at bargain prices, 10am-8pm, elgin library, tel: 562619

SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District

®

craft fair, 10am-3pm, holy trinity church small hall, elgin, £10 per table paid in advance, contact nicola tel: 810550, refreshments, raffle & jewellery hall, £1.50 entry fee 18th moray science festival - families day on environmental wonders, 10am-4pm, moray college, elgin, open to families & the whole community, tickets £6/£21 for a family, doors open at 9.15am, come along & get messy & find out science is fun! for details contact sam bright tel: 576319

www.spotlighton.co.uk

March 2011 - page 17

Plus Support from

MARCH 2011 continued

Chris Wiles @ The Loft & Bi ns nes s Blues Boys @ The Institute

5 saturday elgin city social club - new gambler, tickets £7 from the club or by phoning rose tel: 541305

The Institute, Fochabers

8 tuesday

Fri 18th Mar 11 @ 8.30pm

pancake coffee morning for christian aid, 10am12noon, elgin high church, contact joan cook for details tel: 544461 spring melodies featuring local musicians, 2.30pm, lossiemouth library, for more details contact elgin library tel: 562600 or visit www.moray.gov.uk

T he L of t , Ki n l os s Sat 19th Mar 11 @ 8.30pm

Get tickets for Fochabers Gig in Christies Chemist Tickets for The Loft online at www. thebooth.co.uk Alternatively, for both gigs contact Daz Tindall on 07977 150641

9 wednesday alejandro ziegler tango quartet, 7.30pm, universal hall, findhorn, £10/£8/£6, tel: 01309 691170

9 wednesday to 12 saturday elgin musical theatre present disney’s beauty and the beast, 7.30pm (including saturday matinee), elgin town hall, a treat for all ages, tickets on sale at mathieson’s, batchen street, elgin or tel: 547765, for more details visit our website www.elginmusicaltheatre.co.uk

Slam at The Loft Venue Saturday 12th March Slam are Stuart McMillan & Orde Meikle. Synonymous with the Glasgow underground club scene, this duo have garnered a reputation as International DJ’s and respected collaborators.

www.loftgigs.co.uk tel: 01343 850111

12 saturday slam, the loft venue, by kinloss, £15/£20, tel: 850111 or vist www.loftgigs.co.uk

14 monday quarriers - introduction to the internet, 10am12noon, lossie, contact nuala tel: 556031 for details

16 wednesday quarriers - introduction to the internet, 10am12noon, hopeman, contact nuala 556031 for details

18 friday ‘deja vu dressed as new’ sale in aid of children 1st, 10am to 6.30pm, westfield house, spynie, near elgin iv30 8xl, designer clothing; top quality almost new clothing; bargain prices, tel: 547308 a history of the province of moray by bruce bishop, 7pm, elgin library, for more details contact elgin library tel: 562600 or visit www.moray.gov.uk live music - bonesaw, 8pm, flanagans irish bar, high street, elgin, with support from absolutist, visit www.myspace.com/thesyndicate2008 for more info matt andersen, the loft venue, by kinloss, tel: 850111 or vist www.loftgigs.co.uk

page 18 - March 2011

19 saturday western front association - from front to back : the german prisoners of the bef - mike taylor, 2.30pm, the gallery, elgin library, contact derek bird tel: 870562, email chairman.wfasnb@virgin.net or visit www.wfascotlandnorth.org.uk mad, bad and dangerous to know, 7.30pm, the warehouse theatre, lossie, £10, tel: 814004 or visit www.thewarehousetheatre.co.uk the wiyos, 8pm, universal hall, findhorn, £13/£11/£8, tel: 01309 691170 for details

20 sunday matt andersen take 2, the loft venue, by kinloss, tel: 850111 or vist www.loftgigs.co.uk

21 monday to 23 wednesday moray arts club festival of one-act plays by local groups, adult and junior, 7pm, elgin town hall, tickets at door £6/£4/£1

24 thursday quarriers - mental health awareness session, 1pm2pm, elgin community centre, contact nuala tel: 556031 for details quarriers - care and share session, 1pm-3pm, elgin community centre, contact nuala tel: 556031 for details

25 friday the moray society presents over the air to skye by lt. col. grenvill s. johnston, 7.30pm, elgin museum hall moray rock garden club - donald davidson of abriachan ‘primula and auricula’, 7.30pm, new elgin hall annexe, for more details contact colinne souter tel: 01340 871504 or netta milne tel: 01343 881558 she’koyokh klezmer ensemble, 8pm, universal hall, findhorn, £10/£8/£6, tel: 01309 691170 for details

tel: 01309 690063

To advertise in the next issue of SpotLight on Elgin call 01309 690063 or go online at www.spotlighton.co.uk for more details SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District

Cinema Nairn

4th March Julie and Julia (12a) 25th March 3:10 to Yuma (PG)

Cinema Listings March 2011

Visit cinemanairn.blogspot.com or contact Nairn Community Centre on 01667 453476 for details

Eden Court Theatre, Inverness The King’s Speech (12a) Blue Valentine (15) Neds (18) True Grit (15) plus many others

Visit www.eden-court.co.uk or call 01463 234234 for details

Moray Playhouse, Elgin

New Screenings begin on Fridays Call 01343 542680 or visit www.morayplayhouse.co.uk

Vue Cinema, Inverness From 4th March Rango (U) From 11th March The Resident (15) From 16th March Chalet Girl (12a) From 25th March The Eagle (12a)

KidsAM - Every Saturday & Sunday at 10.15am - £1 per ticket Seniors Club - Every Tuesday at 12.30pm - £3.05 inc. refreshments NEW Teen Screen Every Thursday & Friday £2 with upgrade for 3D films

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Portessie Public Hall

Regular films including Saturday matinees. For further details email portessiepublichall@hotmail.co.uk

Universal Hall, Findhorn

Showing films throughout the year. Visit www.findhorn.org/uhall or call 01309 691170 for details. SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District

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March 2011 - page 19

MARCH 2011 continued

APRIL 2011 in brief

26 saturday

APRIL 1 friday elgin museum reopens for summer season, 1 high street, elgin, iv30 1eq, mon-fri 10am-5pm, sat 11am-4pm, for further information tel: 543675 visit www.elginmuseum.org.uk or email curator@elginmuseum.org.uk fil campbell, 8pm, universal hall, findhorn, ÂŁ10/ÂŁ8/ÂŁ6, tel: 01309 691170 for details 2 saturday the call of the loonbird, 4pm, universal hall, findhorn, ÂŁ6/ÂŁ5/ÂŁ4, tel: 01309 691170 for details 13 wednesday caged, 7pm, universal hall, findhorn, ÂŁ6/ÂŁ5/ÂŁ4, tel: 01309 691170 for details 14 thursday sean hughes, 7.30pm, universal hall, findhorn, ÂŁ14/ÂŁ12, tel: 01309 691170 for details western front association - postal and paper ephemera of the great war - jim mackay, branch member, 2.30pm, the gallery, elgin library, contact derek bird tel: 870562, email chairman.wfasnb@virgin.net or visit www.wfascotlandnorth.org.uk red room, 8pm, universal hall, findhorn, ÂŁ10/ÂŁ8/ÂŁ6, tel: 01309 691170 for details 29 friday moray rock garden club - carole and ian bainbridge ‘patagonia’, 7.30pm, new elgin hall annexe, for more details contact colinne souter tel: 01340 871504 or netta milne tel: 01343 881558

elgin high church spring sale, 10am-12noon, high church hall, elgin, all the usual stalls buckie choral union (with guest singers and orchestra) present gabriel faure’s requiem and john rutter’s magnificat, 7:30pm, fishermen’s hall, buckie, wine or juice will be available in the interval, adults £8/children £5, tickets available from house of hair fashion, tlc health and beauty and choir members, for more info visit www.buckiechoral.org.uk or email sec@buckiechoral.org.uk

27 sunday

celebration of life fair, 12noon-4pm, eight acres hotel, elgin, £3/under 12’s free, wide range of top quality products & services, proceeds to macmillan cancer support & maggie’s highland centre free walk & talk for speakers of other languages with angela innes, 2pm, meet outside1629 restaurant, clifton road, lossie, come for a walk, meet new people, practise speaking english, all welcome, phone / text 0792 2051930 or visit www.english4moray.co.uk scotland’s census 2011, further details can be found at www.gro-scotland.gov.uk

29 tuesday

charity chic : dress well for less by the british red cross, 7pm, elgin library, for more details contact elgin library tel: 562600 or visit www.moray.gov.uk famous buildings of moray by graeme wilson, 7pm, local heritage centre, institution road, elgin, for more details contact elgin library tel: 562600 or visit www.moray.gov.uk

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page 20 - March 2011

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HOW THE “WHATĘźS ONâ€? WORKS

all line listings are free send us details of any events coming up to natalie@spotlighton.co.uk

Permissable events include any event open to the public (whether they have a ticket price or not, charitable or money-making) such as; pub music, entertainment, coffee mornings, fetes, fairs, rallies, walks, runs, sports, theatre, drama, car boots, markets, crafts, equestrian, fundraising etc etc... If you would like an enhanced listing (white box) this costs from ÂŁ41 plus vat. Call 01309 690063 for details. Deadline for April Issue is Wednesday 9th March

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GREEN KITE TRADING Fair Trade shop LAURAS COTTAGE KITCHEN Gluten free food JOA-TOA Distinctive fleece clothing ALBA BHEAG JEWELLERY Hand painted miniatures CROOKED CRAFTS Quirky Bird Houses LUCY JACKSON Australian Bush Flowers THE RESULTS ACADEMY Personal Development MORAY IT Computer Repair & Systems FIRST AID & RESUSCITATION Moray College APEX DENTAL Facial and Dental Aesthetics. FUNKY BONGOS Ceilidh Band JOHNSTON & CARMICHAEL Accountants KARIN DALLEY Chiropractic Clinic DAWN LECKIE Specialist & Novelty Cakes AQUAPLAY Team Building Activities

Carole Bridge from Maggie’s and David Cameron from Macmillan will be available on the day for a chat as to how their range of services can support you, your family and friends in the event of cancer. What will you find there? The widest range of top quality products and services in the area. Come and have a mini massage, reiki or other relaxing taster treatment. Try some yummy chocolate, gluten free products, or one of the many other tasty delicacies on offer. Test luxurious products from aloe vera to hand made specialist make-up. Get business and personal advice to improve your companies profitability, the way you look or your own self confidence and health. Get a foot health check, advice on skin, dental and posture problems, from one of the medical specialists available. Treat yourself or a loved one to unique designer jewellery, clothing or other beautiful products available. The aim of the day is to have fun, raise money and celebrate life by improving it in whatever way small we can. Entrance for visitors is £3, which includes a raffle ticket for over £1,000 of prizes. Under 12’s admitted free of charge.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

• Mary Wall asked if it was possible for the C&RBoECC to donate some money towards the refurbishment of the Elgin Youth Café. Following a discussion, it was agreed that it would be inappropriate to donate money to individual groups. • The Secretary advised that Michael Gates was unable to take over the role of Secretary due to studying for his exams. He also said that as he would be leaving in March that a new Secretary would have to be appointed from within the existing Community Council membership prior to that date. • Alastair Kennedy advised that Mary Dow would no longer be able to continue as Minute Secretary due to her recent appointment to a full-time position. If members know of anyone who may be interested in taking up this position,

please contact the Secretary. • The Secretary advised that he had received a draft copy of the Coach Drivers Year Book entry for the City of Elgin and had agreed that the Visitor Information Centre be marked on the map. • Alex Macmillan felt that, notwithstanding nationwide reports of refuse being left uncollected during this winter of adverse weather, refuse collections in Elgin had been excellent – well done to Moray Council Refuse Collectors. Members also thanked the emergency services, taxi drivers, paper boys/girls, postmen/women and bus drivers for their excellent work during the adverse weather conditions. Next Meeting The next meeting of the City & Royal Burgh of Elgin Community Council will take place on Tuesday 8th March.

While I am generally avoiding party politics in this column I think the one political issue I can mention without fear of reprisal is the UK Government’s plans to hold a referendum on the same day as the Scottish Parliment elections.

All of the main political parties in Scotland have expressed their concern over this with the worry that media coverage of the key election issues - including health, justice, education, environment, Fair fa yer honest sonsie face, why can ye nae America grace? That’s a question I have been pursuing in my ministerial role, promoting Scotland’s food and drink.

Unfortunately United States rules ban the import of haggis due to sheeps lungs being part of the ingredients. Our food hygiene laws in Scotland are, however, strict and well policed by Environmental Health services and I have invited U.S. officials and

fishing, farming and, indeed, almost all functions of local government - will be overshadowed by the debate on voting reform. That belittles the importance of the Scottish Parliament on deciding on these crucial issues that affect us every single day.

At the time of writing there is still a possibility of the votes being held separately and for the sake of democracy and having a proper debate on both the Scottish Parliament and the referendum I really hope that is the case. Angus Robertson MP

politicians to come to Scotland and examine our meat production facilities in a bid to have the haggis ban lifted.

Not only would it help ensure that those celebrating Burns Night in the States can do so authentically, it would also provide an important export boost for producers who know there is a market that they just can’t access. Here’s to the haggis and here’s hoping! Richard Lochhead MSP

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DEALS TO GET YOU MOVING. At Robertson Homes, you’ll find a fantastic range of developments located in the north of Scotland. These prime locations have plenty of styles and sizes to choose from. Take advantage of our Part Exchange* scheme, where you can use your old house as part payment. And, right now, you can reserve a new home for just £100 (until 31st March).

1(: 0(18 1(: /22.

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PA EXCH RT AVAI ANGE LABL E*

Hamilton Gardens, Elgin 0845 504 9900 Sat Nav: IV30 5PA Westfields, Elgin 0844 247 2160 Sat Nav: IV30 6BB Gleann Mòr House, Inverness 0844 247 2161 Sat Nav: IV3 8LP Westercraigs, Inverness 0844 247 2161 Sat Nav: IV3 8LP

To take advantage of these deals, visit one of our Marketing Suites today. Marketing Suites open Thursday to Monday, 10.30am to 5.30pm. Westfields open Friday to Sunday, 10.30am to 5.30pm.

robertsonhomes.co.uk * Offers available on selected plots and developments only, full details of the Terms and Conditions are available on request. Reservations must be made before the 31st March 2011. ** Reservations taken prior to 31st March 2011. Offer advertised is available on selected plots and developments, not available in conjunction with any other offer, and is subject to Robertson Homes terms and conditions. Images used are typical of a Robertson Home and may not be representative of the particular developments advertised.

Cranberry and Ginger Cupcakes with Orange Butterceam

®

SpotLight Chef’s Confidential

Now that the days are getting longer and the weather milder, Knockomie is welcoming local walkers, who have enjoyed a stroll on many of the local footpaths, Blairs Loch and the Dava Way. Those who enjoy a delicious hot chocolate, cake and a warm fire to relax beside, not to mention the weekend newspapers! One of the favourite cakes are our home made Cranberry and Ginger Cupcakes, so we thought we you might like the recipe. Ingredients 125gm Unsalted Butter or Margarine 250gm Caster Sugar 2 Large Eggs 1 tsp Vanilla Extract 250gm Plain Flour 2 tsp Baking Powder 150gm Dried Cranberries 1 piece Stem Ginger in syrup 2 teaspoons of stem ginger syrup 3 dessert spoon Semi Skimmed Milk Method Line a muffin or cupcake tray with 12 large cupcake / muffin cases. In a mixing bowl cream the butter and sugar. Add the eggs and and vanilla extract and and beat again. Add the flour and baking powder and stir in the cranberries, stem ginger, syrup and semi skimmed milk. Spoon the mixture between the cupcake cases, filling them about 2/3 full. Bake in the oven at 170°c / 325°f / gas mark 3 for about 25 minutes until they are firm to touch and if you put a skewer in to them it comes out clean. Remove from oven and leave in the tray to cool. page 24 - March 2011

tel: 01309 690063

Orange Buttercream 125g Unsalted Butter at room temperature 50ml Freshly Squeeze Orange Juice 500g Icing Sugar Method Beat the butter and orange juice together. Gradually beat in the icing sugar until smooth. Ice the cupcakes once cool, either using a knife or an icing bag with a large star shaped nozzle.

Penny Ellis, Owner Knockomie Hotel, Forres tel: 01309 673146

SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District

Dine in style

WELCOME WELCOME BACK M MICHELLE MICHEL from her maternity maternit nit leave. pe Mother’s Day Special

Dine in our stylish restaurant, The Grill Room, and enjoy a delicious, beautifully presented meal prepared to the highest standards, with bottle of specially selected wine and coffee all for only ÂŁ40 per couple.

advance Facials ÂŁ ÂŁ15 15 O OFF FF aallll advanced with Michelle Michelle and and Martine Ma with

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Street, Elgin (opp M&S) 228 High Street,

01343 556611

Must be pre-booked and quote ‘Dine in to Spring’ when booking.

Knockomie Hotel is licensed to hold Civil Weddings

www .ultimatehairandbeauty airandbeauty.co.uk www.ultimatehairandbeauty.co.uk Elgin & District

Our highly personal approach will create a perfect and memorable day, designed to match your specific requirements for you and up to 40 guests. Also ask about our 'All inclusive Weddings Wrapped Up Packages’

Mike R Duff Flooring

Professional Flooring Installations

CARPETS - VINYLS LUXURY VINYL TILES SOLID WOOD & LAMINATE FLOORS DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL ALL SUPPLIED AND FITTED

TEL:01309 694835 • 07775 837074

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HOTEL

Tel: 01309 673146 Grantown Road, Forres XXX LOPDLPNJF DP VL t TUBZ!LOPDLPNJF DP VL

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TRAINING/AWARENESS SESSIONS INTRODUCTION TO THE INTERNET -# + # *' ) # +, $( ).- #)/ -) ,, -# $(- +( - , ! &0 ( ,$&0 , + # !)+ ., !.& / ,$- , ( 1,* %2 -) )-# + + +, )(&$(

STROKE Awareness Session -# + # *' )++ , )''.($-0 (-+

INTRODUCTION TO THE INTERNET -# + # ' ())( ),,$

INTRODUCTION TO THE INTERNET -# + # ' ())( )* ' (

MENTAL HEALTH Awareness Session -# + # *' &"$( )''.($-0 (-+

STROKE Awareness Session -# + # *' $-# ,).+ (-+ SAVE A LIFE basic first aid -# *+$& ' ())( $-# ,).+ (-+ )(- - . & )( 01343 556031 !)+ !.+-# + $(!)+' -$)( ( -) ))% *& "$,- + # +$-0

Carer Support Service Moray www.quarriers.org.uk

速

SpotLight School Term Dates

Picture by Karen Barclay, Copyright

for 2010/2011 (all dates inclusive) Spring Term Ends Friday 1st April 2011 Summer Term Starts Monday 18th April 2011 Good Friday Holiday Friday 22nd April 2011 May Day Holiday Monday 2nd May 2011 In-service Closure Thursday 19th May 2011 In-service Closure Friday 20th May 2011 Summer Term Ends Friday 1st July 2011 for 2011/2012 (all dates inclusive) Autumn Term Starts Tuesday 16th August 2011 Autumn Term Ends Friday 7th October 2011 Winter Term Starts Monday 24th October 2011 In-service Closure Monday 21st November 2011

In-service Closure Tuesday 22nd November 2011 Winter Term Ends Wed. 21st December 2011 Spring Term Starts Thursday 5th January 2012 Mid-term Holiday Friday 10th February 2012 Mid-term Holiday Monday 13th February 2012 Spring Term Ends Friday 30th March 2012 Good Friday Holiday Friday 6th April 2012 Summer Term Starts Monday 16th April 2012 May Day Holiday Monday 7th May 2012 In-service Closure Thursday 17th May 2012 In-service Closure Friday 18th May 2012 Summer Term Ends Thursday 28th June 2012

LOCAL SCENES and SCOTTISH LANDSCAPE prints for sale

www.david-mclarnon.com

page 28 - March 2011

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District

Photography by David McLarnon

We also offer a range of specialised PHOTOGRAPHIC SERVICES for your own 35mm negs, slides or digital files. Call or text 07757 279554 for a FREE SAMPLE PACK or Visit

The Mansion House Country Club is a unique experience of health and relaxation set in the heart of Elgin in which to enjoy your leisure time. The country club is open to members, guests and residents of the hotel

Inviting new members now. The Country Club has the following facilities: = 10m Heated Swimming Pool = Heated Spa Bath = Exercise Classes = Swimming Lessons = Beauty Spa Facilities = Hairdressing Facilities = Sauna and Steam Room = Gymnasium equipped MEMBERSHIP PRICES (Payable on joining) 1st Months fee Monthly Payment Adult £28.00 £28.00 Couple £56.00 £56.00 Youth (16-18yrs)

Per Annum £260 £480 £95

DINING Lunches are served daily from 12-2pm. Evening dining also available every day from 6-9pm for our Bistro and 7-9pm for our a’la carte restaurant. Private dining also available. For table reservations please telephone reception on 01343 548811. Exercise Class Times - Februarys Timetable Mondays:

Studio Circuits Tighten Tone & Relax Tuesdays: Studio Circuits Wednesdays: Tums, Hips & Wobbly Bits

9.30 - 10.30am, Sam 6.45 - 7.30pm, Amanda 6.30 - 7.30pm, Sam 7.00 - 7.45pm, Amanda

All classes are open to everyone, call and book or just turn up. Costing £2.50 for our members and £4.50 for non members. *Classes may be cancelled on occasions for hotel functions

THE HAUGH, ELGIN, MORAY IV30 1AW Email:reception@mhelgin.co.uk Website:www.mansionhousehotel.co.uk

OPENING HOURS: Monday to Friday: 7:30 am -21:00 pm Saturday: 8:00 am - 19:00 pm Sunday: 8:00 am - 20:30 pm

®

SpotLight Useful Numbers and Local Holidays

Picture by Keith J Bissett, Copyright

SCHOOLS Alves Primary School ..................................(01343) 850247 Bishopmill Primary School ..........................(01343) 547841 Burghead Primary School ..........................(01343) 825529 East End Primary School ............................(01343) 542381 Greenwards Primary School ......................(01343) 541661 Hopeman Primary School ..........................(01343) 830281 Lhanbryde Primary School..........................(01343) 842649 Mosstowie Primary School..........................(01343) 547119 New Elgin Primary School ..........................(01343) 547587 Seafield Primary School ..............................(01343) 547792 St Sylvesters R.C. Primary School ..............(01343) 541453 West End Primary School............................(01343) 543161 Elgin Academy ............................................(01343) 543485 Elgin High School........................................(01343) 545181 Hythehill Primary School ............................(01343) 812014 St Gerardine Primary School ......................(01343) 812251 Lossiemouth High School ..........................(01343) 812047 Police Station ................................................0845 600 5700 Bus Station, Elgin .......................................(01343) 544222 Citizens Advice Bureau ...............................(01343) 550088 Dalcross Airport ...........................................(01667) 464000 Dallas Village Hall .......................................(01343) 890243 Elgin Town Hall ................(01343) 547767/562600-To Book Lossie Town Hall ............................(01343) 813329/815309 Moray Council .............................................(01343) 543451 National Rail Enquiries ..................................08457 484950 Elgin Library ................................................(01343) 562600 Lossie Library ..............................................(01343) 813334 Elgin Community Council............................(01343) 544091 Moray Leisure Centre .................................(01343) 550033 Lossie Swimming Pool ................................(01343) 815299

DOCTORS Dr Gray's Hospital, Elgin ...............................0845 456 6000 Moray Coast Medical Practice - Hopeman (01343) 830269 Moray Coast Medical Practice - Burghead (01343) 835780 Moray Coast Medical Practice - Lossie ........0845 337 1190 Elgin Community Surgery ..........................(01343) 542234 Linkwood Medical Centre ............................0845 337 6350 Maryhill Health Centre ..................................0845 337 0610 DENTISTS South Street Dental Practice ......................(01343) 542729 Trinity Dental Practice ..................................(01343) 542697 Apex Dental Studio......................................(01343) 556606 Pure Spa Dental ..........................................(01343) 541164 Holly Tree Dental Practice, Lossie ..............(01343) 814625 Rivermouth Dental Practice, Lossie ............(01343) 813325 PHARMACIES Alliance Pharmacy ......................................(01343) 542186 Bishopmill Pharmacy ..................(01343) 547374 / 547393 Boots The Chemist ......................................(01343) 543311 G.F Duthie Phramacy, Burghead ................(01343) 835370 G.F Duthie Phramacy,Hopeman ................(01343) 830249 Lhanbryde Pharmacy ..................................(01343) 842531 Lloyds Pharmacy, 48 High St ......................(01343) 547065 Lloyds Pharmacy, 176 High St ....................(01343) 542571 Lloyds Pharmacy, Lossie ............................(01343) 812818 Lossiemouth Pharmacie ............................(01343) 813095

VETS Allen and Matthews ....................................(01343) 544811 Miller and Swann ........................................(01343) 542255 Moray Coast Vets, Lossie ............................(01343) 815335

Local Holidays 2011 Burghead Holiday ‡ Elgin Holiday § Good Friday Easter Monday Early May Bank Holiday Spring Bank Holiday Burghead Holiday ‡ Elgin Holiday § Summer Bank Holiday Burghead Holiday ‡ Elgin Holiday § Burghead Holiday page 30 - March 2011

Mon. 4th April 2011 Mon. 11th April 2011 Fri. 22nd April 2011 Mon. 25th April 2011 Mon. 2nd May 2011 Mon. 30th May 2011 Mon. 6th June 2011 Mon. 27th June 2011 Mon. 1st Aug. 2011 Mon. 8th Aug. 2011 Mon. 5th Sept. 2011 Mon. 19th Sept. 2011

Elgin Holiday § Mon. 17th Oct. 2011 St Andrews Day Wed. 30th Nov. 2011 Christmas Day * Mon. 26th Dec. 2011 Boxing Day * Tues. 27th Dec. 2011 Mon. 2nd Jan. 2012 New Years Day * 2nd January Tues. 3rd Jan. 2012 Good Friday Fri. 6th April 2012 Early May Bank Holiday Mon. 7th May 2012 * substitute, as this holiday falls on a weekend or other bank holiday § includes Lhanbryde ‡ includes Hopeman & Lossiemouth

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District

EIGHT E GHHTTACRES A CERE RSEHOTEL H EIGHT EIIG AACRES CR HSOHOTEL TEOLTEL &L LEISURE CLUB, ELGIN &EILEISURE CLUB LSEUIR SE URC ELU CB L,UE BLGIN

FEELING FIT? JOIN TODAY & GET £10 OFF SPA S PA TTHERAPIES HERAPIES AND AND B BEAUTY EAUT Y TTREATMENTS REATMENTS

Recently Refurbished facilities! cilities! Off Annual Memberships mberships PLUS... PLUS...25% O

1 15m 5m s swimming wimming p pool ool S Sauna auna & J Jacuzzi acuzzi F Fully u l l y equipped e q u i p p e d gym gym P Personalised e r s o n a l i s e d exercise e x e r c i s e programme programme Wide W i d e rrange a n g e of o f classes classes S Squash quash c court ourt S Spa p a therapies t h e r a p i e s and and b e a u t y ttreatments r e a t m e n t s in i n our o u r Sonas S o n a s Spa Spa beauty

COMEDY MEDY NIGHT HT

on Saturday turday 30th April 2010, 010, doors open 7pm, show commences ces 8 pm. Tickets £10 0 on sale at hotel reception. ception. Beauty B eauty ttreatments reatments and and therapies therapies are are also also aavailable vailable in in our our Sonas Sonas Spa Spa

SUNDAY S SUNDA UND DA AY CARVERY AY CA CAR AR RVER RVER VERY RY every ev ve ery y Sunday Sun nday ay a y 12pm 12pm 2p pm m - 2.30pm 2 30 0pm pm m EIGHT EIGHT ACRES ACRES ES HOTEL HOTEL LEISURE CLUB LUB EIGHT H HT T ACRES AACRE CRES RES E ES SHOTE HO HOTEL HOTEL T L&&LEISURE LEISURE LEIS LEIS IS SURE UCRE R E CLUB Morriston Road, Road, Elgin Elgin IV30 IV30 6UL 6UL Morriston

Morriston M Mor riston i nR iston Road, oad, d E Elgin lg gin i IIV IV30 V30 30 6U 6UL 6UL

EmEmail: il:ail: el:igeightacr hgtahctacr erses@cr crcr errerarh rar hhootel oom m T TTe lephone: phone: ho ne01343 014334543077 547773 077 077 Email: eightacres@crerarhotels.com Telephone: 01343 543 Telephone: Eam mail: eeightacres@crerarhotels.com arcr e@@ eararh ote tel ellss.com s.cccom Te elephone: eeeephone: ne: ne: 0:13 5433077

W WW W. W W. CW W. R..ECRRA R RAER H AO AR OH T EOLTSEC E.LCSO. CMO M WWW.CRERARHOTELS.COM WWW.CRERARHOTELS.COM

The ‘famous’ Spotty Bag Shop s /VER 0RODUCTS s .EW 3TOCK !RRIVING $AILY s !WARD 7INNING #AFE s 7HEELCHAIR &RIENDLY s 6ISIT THE ,ARGEST $ISCOUNT 3TORE OF ITS +IND IN 3COTLAND s ! 'REAT &AMILY $AY /UT

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SpotLight Advertisers Index

Picture by Kurt Simon, Copyright

Alistair Young & Sons ..........................................................5 An Easy Drive ....................................................................27 Anderson & England ............................................................7 Baxters..................................................................................9 Beaver Travel ......................................................................22 Big Sky Print ......................................................................23 Birding Ecosse ....................................................................5 Buckie Furniture & Carpet Centre ........................................8 DH Fitness ............................................................................9 Dallas Designs....................................................................32 David McLarnon Photography ..........................................28 Dittmar Herrnkind - Your Handyman ..................................17 DLP Storage ........................................................................5 Duffus Inn ..........................................................................15 East Grange Activity Centre ..............................................13 Eight Acres Hotel................................................................31 Elgin Chiropractic Clinic ....................................................15 Excel Scotland......................................................................5 Fairleys Solicitors................................................................15 Firefly IT Solutions ................................................................3 Gordon Scott Chartered Accountant ................................11 Home Comforts By Sandra ..................................................8 Ian’s Handyman Service ......................................................5 Joanne Newsome Canine Behaviourist ..............................5 John A Jack ..........................................................................2 Knockomie Hotel ................................................................25 Kylauren Homes ..................................................Back Cover Mackenzie & Cruickshank..................................................26 Mansion House Hotel & Country Club ..............................29 McDonald & Munro ..............................................................8 Medico Nursing & Homecare ............................................16 Michael Sharp Joinery........................................................16 MonsterBikes ......................................................................25 Moray Coast Vet Group ......................................Front Cover

SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District

MRD Flooring......................................................................25 Poppy Design & Graphics ..................................Front Cover Quarriers ............................................................................27 Relax ..................................................................................11 Robertson Homes ..............................................................23 Roof Wizard ........................................................................16 Rose Abbey School............................................................11 SBBA Lossie ......................................................................20 Scotengineering ..................................................................9 Scribbles ............................................................................23 Seaforth Windows ................................................................5 SHK Roofing ......................................................................16 Simone Herrnkind German Tutor ......................................33 Smith & Castle Jewellers....................................................13 Spotty Bag Store ................................................................32 Springfield Properties ..............................Inside Back Cover The Blind Spot ....................................................................21 The Granary Bar & Restaurant ..........................................17 The Loft Venue....................................................................11 The Picture Framer ............................................................20 Third Brothers ....................................................................14 Ultimate Hair & Beauty ......................................................25 Unique Beauty ....................................................................25 Universall Hall ....................................................................20 Veronique’s ........................................................................13 Wheelchair Care ................................................................13

1SPCMFNT JO 4DIPPM /FFE JU GPS #VTJOFTT 0S KVTU GPS 'VO

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March 2011 - page 33

G re e n D o g W a l k e r s M o r a y Safer Communities have launched an initiative

volunteers signed up to the scheme. We will also

targeting dog fouling in Moray. The Green Dog

monitor how many dog fouling complaints have been

Walkers is a non-confrontational, friendly way to

reported in Forres prior to the pilot and during this

change attitudes about dog fouling throughout the

six month period to assess the impact. Further eval-

Moray area. Volunteers wear a GDW armband (or

uation can be done through the number of dog waste

their dogs wear the GDW collar) which signifies that

bags distributed in the area and usage of dog waste

they have "taken the pledge" to always:

bins in the area. First indications based on a comparison of the period just before and during the start of the pilot show that dog fouling complaints reported to the Safer Communities Service in the Forres area has decreased by approximately 50%. Based on this information Communities Committee gave approval to roll out the scheme throughout the rest of Moray.

•

Clean up after their dog

On Saturday 21st of August a Dog Awareness Day

Carry extra dog waste bags

Community Warden Debbie Anderson to raise

dog waste bag to those without

issues involving dogs. The main aim of the day is to

took place in the Cooper Park, Elgin, organised by

•

Wear the armband when walking their dog

•

Be happy to be approached to 'lend' a

awareness of and tackle the varying community

Be a friendly reminder to other dog walkers

show dog owners how to act responsibly and how to

•

•

to clean up after their dogs

care for their dog. This provided ideal opportunity to further roll out the "Green Dog Walkers" scheme.

The initiative was initially launched and piloted in Forres in May at the Dog Show in Grant Park by Community Warden Cowie. Consultation so far with the dog owners who have already signed up to the scheme has revealed that they believe the scheme to be a really good way to approach the persistent problem of dog fouling. Many also believe it is

A further dog socialisation group has been attended by Warden Anderson too at the request of the group, through one of its members being a Green Dog Walker. In total we have in excess of 250 people signed up to the scheme in a relatively short space of time which is an extremely encouraging uptake to date.

beneficial to counteract the bad publicity dog walkers get with this green armband, which in itself represents

and

recognises

responsible

dog

ownership. The scheme in Forres is being supported locally by Moray Coast Vets and the two pet shops

For further details contact: M ic h el le M c C all um G r e e n D og Wa l ke r s P i l o t P r oj e c t L e a d e r D u n i pa c e Sc o t la n d g r ee n d o g wa l k er s @ ya hoo . co . u k

in the town, ‘Pearls Pets’ and ‘PALS’. An evaluation for the first six month period of the initiative is underway with results to be published shortly.

A questionnaire has been issued to all

page 34 - March 2011

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District

Great News for Down-Sizers and Young Professionals IV30 Apartments - South Street, Elgin

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*Part eexchange *Part xchange scheme scheme,, Available Available on all rreleased eleased plots plots.. **Shar ed EEquity quity Scheme, Scheme, 5% of the **Shared pur chase pr ice rrequired equired ffor or purchase price deposit chase price price deposit.. 80% of the pur purchase pa yable on settlemen payable settlementt and 15% being paid either when the pr operty is property sold,, af after period sold ter a per iod of 10 yyears ears or aatt an anyy other poin pointt within the 10 yyears ears upon o wners instigation. instigation. owners A offers ar vailable on * all or ** Allll offers aree aavailable selec ted plots ffor or rreservations, eservations, selected which ar oncluded no la ter than 14 aree cconcluded later da ys fr om the da te of issue days from date tto o yyour our solicit or of the standar d solicitor standard missiv e. and is subjec missive. subjectt tto oK ylauren Homes tterms erms and Kylauren cconditions. onditions. K ylauren Kylauren Homes nomina ted mor tgage br oker nominated mortgage broker must be used used..

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TTel: el: 01667 452508 www.kylaurenhomes.co.uk w ww.kylaurenhomes.co.uk omes as sta st standard and nda ard with a K Kylauren ylauren Home STYLE, QUALITY & VALUE comes

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