DECEMBER 2013
ELGIN, LOSSIE & DISTRICT THE NORTH’S FAVOURITE FREE WEE MAG
See Inside For Full Page Advert
Asiabani
BUCKIE FURNITURE, Carpet AND MOBILITY CENTRE
FREE DELIVERY TO ELGIN AND SURROUNDING AREAS 45 - 49 Church Street, Buckie. Tel: (01542) 832653 ÜÜÜ°LÕV i vÕÀ ÌÕÀi°iÕÊUÊLÕV ivÕÀ ÌÕÀiJ} > °V SEE FULL ADVERT INSIDE!
EIGHT ACRES HOTEL & LEISURE CLUB, ELGIN
Christmas Day Lunch Enjoy a traditional three course Christmas Christmas lunch and let us take care of all the preparations. per person Followed by tea or coffee and tablet. Served in the Sherwood Suite from 12.30pm to 2.30pm.
£45
Hogmanay Dinner & Ceilidh Bring in 2014 in Hogmanay style! Start your evening with our Champagne reception before dinner in our Sherwood Suite. per person Savour a four course dinner before celebrating Hogmanay with our traditional ceilidh band.
£52
New Year’s Day Murder Mystery Start 2014 with an evening of mystery and intrigue. A three course dinner will be served before it’s up to you to crack the truth and solve the night’s secrets.
New Year
£29 per person
Leisure Club Memberships Join
free
in December or January
• Heated swimming pool • Spa bath & sauna • Extensive gym & squash court • Kettle bells & bootcamp classes
Spa Afternoon Tea ents Spa treatm tea n o o n er ft and a
ONLY
£39 per person
Available all year round from Monday to Friday, the Spa Afternoon Tea offer includes two 30-minute treatments with afternoon tea. Choose from back, neck and shoulder massage, taster facial, hands file and polish or feet file and polish.
EIGHT ACRES HOTEL & LEISURE CLUB Morriston Road, Elgin IV30 6UL
Telephone: 01343 543 077 Email: gm.eightacres@crerarhotels.com
WWW.CRERARHOTELS.COM
Full Crerar Hotels terms and conditions apply. Spa treatments must be booked 7 days in advance and Spa Days over bank holidays include a £4 supplement.
In Stitches
‘TIS THE SEASON FOR GIVING...
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3 Critical Features to demand from Your New Vet... Moving to a new area is a challenging process for your family, your pet will be stressed by the process as well. At Moray Coast Vet Group we want you to know that we are here to help you and your pets settle into the area. Why would you use us? Well it’s simple really, we have been vets in this area for a very long time and can offer your pet the following 3 critical benefits: to a Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Accredited Practice, Access meaning your pet will be treated to the highest standards. convenient surgery locations making it easy to get to us Four day and night. and well equipped surgeries meaning we can treat all routine Modern conditions without the need to refer your pet. So all you need to do now, for peace of mind for you and your pet, is call us to say ‘hello’ and we will do all that is necessary to register your pet with our practice. Oh, and we will call your old vet to request your pet’s existing notes, so we can be familiar with everything we need to know. Now that is peace of mind for your pet.
Call us now on: CARING FOR YOUR COMPANIONS
Forres Surgery (main branch) 01309 672243 Nairn Surgery 01667 453161 Lossiemouth Surgery 01343 815335 Balloch Surgery 01463 794224 24 HOUR EMERGENCY NUMBER 01309 672243 www.moraycoastvetgroup.co.uk
CLUBS & SOCIETIES ALVES LADIES BOWLING CLUB Monday evenings at 7pm at Alves Hall. Tel: 01343 850264. BANFF, MORAY & NAIRN CANINE CLUB Mondays during school terms at 6:30pm in Spynie Hall, Elgin. Classes in obedience & ringcraft Call Margaret on 01343 542070 or Mary on 01542 850262. BIRNIE INDOOR BOWLING CLUB Come and play on our excellent carpets and enjoy good company. Playing on Monday and Thursday 7pm. Contact Charles Stewart: 543307. DALLACHY AERO MODELLERS Model aircrafts and helicopter flying at old Dallachy World War 2 airfield. Mainly at weekends. Offers training on dual control. www.dallachyaeromodellers.org.uk DARNAWAY CURLING CLUB Small and friendly club would be delighted to welcome new members for the coming season. Why not come and try a new sport. For further details, contact evrae@hotmail.com
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page 4 - December 2013
ELGIN AMATEUR ATHLETICS CLUB Coaching in running, jumps, throws, field and track athletics. Ages 9 + Morriston Playing Field Apr - Oct and East End Primary Nov - Mar. Tuesdays & Thursdays 7pm-8.30pm. Membership fee + £1 a session. Contact Mr M Archibald 540201 ELGIN AMATEUR DRAMATIC SOCIETY Quality drama productions for Elgin and District, and comprehensive theatrical experiences for interested adults and young people at Kingsmills Studio. Call Jenna Ward 552457 or 07873 497487. www.elgindrama.co.uk ELGIN-LANDSHUT TWIN TOWN ASSOCIATION Encourages friendship and exchange visits between Elgin and its twin town in Bavaria. Contact Alastair Rossiter 542939 www.landshut-elgin.de ELGIN MINIATURE RIFLE CLUB Encourages a responsible attitude towards target shooting in a safe controlled environment. Mondays 7:15pm Sept - March at Indoor Rifle Range, Pinefield. Call Athole Manson 07779 710985 or email atholem@aol.com ELGIN SCRABBLE CLUB Meet every Monday for a game of scrabble, Elgin Community Centre. All ages and levels welcome. Contact Margaret Armstrong 545377 GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND Nairn & Moray Branch looking for new branch volunteers. Please contact Anna Temple or Anna Roberts on 01309 694866 HIGHLAND HANG-GLIDING AND PARAGLIDING CLUB To promote freeflying activities throughout Highland and Moray areas. Contact Gary Williamson 01463 236600 or 01463 811852 hg@highlandhg&pgclub.co.uk HOPEMAN LUNCHEON CLUB Tues 12.30 - 1.30pm, Hopeman Memorial Hall. Serving meals to pensioners, £5 per meal. Call Violet McPherson 830444
LOSSIEMOUTH CRUISING CLUB Active club with full programme of races & musters. Crews always required. Contact Sally Skalke or John Jones on 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. SOUNDS DEEP MEN’S CHOIR Alternate Tuesdays 7.30pm9.30pm at St. John’s Church, Forres. All kinds of music. No experience necessary. Contact Bill 01309 672951 for more details. MORAY & NAIRN FLORAL ART CLUB Wednesdays, 7.30pm, Ramnee Hotel, Forres. Friendship through flowers. Demonstration exhibits raffled. New members welcome. Further details contact Chrissie on 01309 673431 or Jean on 673552 MORAY ADVANCE MOTORISTS & MOTORCYCLISTS Reg. Scottish Charity SC 033561 visit www.morayiam.org.uk or call 01309 673954 MORAY ARTS CLUB Bringing 'The Arts' to the people of Moray. Call Myra Gallicker (Art Convener) on 01343 541426 or email mjg.artist@hotmail.co.uk or visit www.morayartsclub.com LOSSIEMOUTH SENIOR CITIZENS LUNCHEON CLUB Meet Tues & Thurs at the Beach Bar, Lossiemouth. All over 60s welcome to join us for a two course meal & chat. Drivers & Clippies required for both days too. Contact Abbie Riddell (President) or Sylvia Riddell (Secretary) on 01343 814062 MORAY WHEELCHAIR CURLING CLUB Monday & Wednesday, 2pm 4pm Sept - March at Moray Leisure Centre.
‘NO STRINGS ATTACHED’ CONFIDENTIAL HELPLINE Caring for someone affected by drugs, alcohol or mental health issues and feel that it’s having an impact on you and the rest of your family? Call 01343 555031 Anonymity if required MORAY MOUNTAIN BIKE CLUB Small, local group, meeting on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, to mountain bike the local area. Organise day trips to both trail centres and natural trails. Visit www.moraymountainbikeclub.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 RIVERSIDE MACHINE KNITTING CLUB Wed 10am - 3pm, Community Centre, Elgin. Hand & machine knitting encouragement and support. Call Tricia Furr 870429 QUARRIERS CARER SUPPORT SERVICE MORAY Practical and emotional support for unpaid Carers of Moray. If you could use some help or just want to find out more about what we do, call 01343 556031 ST AETHANS BOWLING CLUB To promote Lawn Bowling in Burghead for all ages. PLEASE NOTE: Details of Clubs & Societies are published on a rotational basis.
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 in every issue.
NCT BUMPS AND BABIES Tuesdays from 10am - 11.30am at Kinloss church hall. £1.50 suggested donation. Come along for a chat, a cuppa, meet new friends, antenatal support and a lending library
tel: 01309 690063
admin@spotlighton.co.uk
The Editor It only seems like 5
minutes ago that Christmas came and went last year. Christmas is a time of conflicting emotions - in theory it is a time for family and giving but for many it can be a challenging time too. When finances are tight and family spread about, the reality of Christmas can be different from the media driven utopia found in adverts and films. If we can be a friend to someone on their own this Christmas - then all will be well.
PUBLISHER ..............David Nelmes SALES ..........................Peter Evans ACCOUNTS ...................Wendy Day DESIGN .................Alistair Davidson LAYOUT .................Tamsyn Dickson
January Issue Deadlines Editorial - Friday 29/11/13 Advertising - Wednesday 04/12/13
Veronique’s Patchwork & Quilting Fabric Dress Fabric & Haberdashery ASK ABOUT OU PATCHWORK & QUILRTI NG CLASSES Open from Monday to Friday from 9.30 to 5pm and Saturday 9.30pm to 4pm Late Night Wednesday till 8pm
WE HAVE NOW MOVED TO... 18-20 Commerce Street, Elgin IV30 1BS
01343 547559 email: veroquiltedpatch@yahoo.co.uk Web: veroquiltedpatch.co.uk
Yes, that’s right, direct from the North Pole, the Big Man in Red himself has made his headquarters in Santa’s Grotto at M&C. Get into the Christmas spirit bring all the kids, do some xmas shopping and make a day of it. Check-out our website for more details! www.mackenzie-cruickshank.com Bringing life to your home and garden... MACKENZIE & CRUICKSHANK
MACKENZIE & CRUICKSHANK
. ng ro
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an Toy, Photo (Including hts) Lig Christmas
ll going s sti t
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1 West Road, Forres IV36 2GW 01309 696940
PASTORAL LETTER & CHURCH MEETINGS
The Best Decision
George Best, the famous footballer, had the world at his feet. He had looks, talent, fame and fortune. But he was an alcoholic. I am sure George looked back at his life and reflected that his WORST decision must have been to take that first drink. George was admitted to hospital on the 26th September 2005. During this time, in the latter stages of his life, he was given the opportunity to make a life changing decision. God was working in his life. In the hospital Joyce, a Christian nurse, sensitively shared her faith with George as, he explored the meaning and purpose of life. About three weeks before his death, George accepted the Lord Jesus as his own personal Saviour making, without doubt, the BEST decision of his life. In the words of Joyce: “He confessed with his mouth.” The Bible says in Romans 10:9: “If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is
Lord”, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” George enjoyed many privileges as a celebrity. His status meant he was treated like royalty on many occasions. However, his place in heaven was gained when he took his place as a sinner and not as George Best, world famous footballer. All the family who had been at his bedside left for home on the 26th November 2005, the day after George died. The daily reading notes of his sister on that day said: “Where O death, is your victory? Where O death is your sting? The sting of death is sin, but thanks be to God who gives us victory through Our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 55-57 On the day of George’s funeral, his sister got assurance from God about where George was now. The Daily bread reading was: “Thy brother was dead and is alive again, was lost and is found.”
Moray Grace Fellowship The Warehouse Theatre, Lossie. Sundays 10.30am. Contact Vic Cameron: 07738 260550 Email: vic.cameron2803@btinternet.com. Website: www.moraygrace.wordpress.com Parish of Duffus, Spynie and Hopeman First Sunday of the month, united service 10.30am. On other Sundays, services are 10am at Hopeman and 11.30am at Duffus or Spynie. Contact Rev. Jenny Adams: 01343 830276. Website: www.duffusparish.co.uk St Andrews-Lhanbryd and Urquhart Parish Church Sundays 11am including young church and crèche. Evening services 7pm on last Sunday of month at St Margaret's Hall, Urquhart. Contact Andrew Robertson: 01343 843765. St Gerardine’s High Church Lossiemouth. Sunday family worship 11am. Contact: 01343 813635. St Giles and St Columba’s South Elgin. Sunday services 10:30am in January, March, May, July, September, and November in St Giles’ Church, High Street, Elgin. February, April, June, August, October,
page 6 - December 2013
Have you decided to follow Jesus? Jesus said in John 3:16 that: “God so loved the world that he sent his one and only son that whosoever believes in him will no perish but have eternal life.” Jesus said in John 14:6: “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” God loves you. He has made a way for you to be forgiven and to share a relationship with him for all eternity through the coming, dying, risen and ascended Saviour, Jesus Christ. The Choice is yours. I pray you will make the BEST decision.
Rev Rae Mackenzie Lossiemouth Baptist Church
and December in St Columba’s South & The Williamson Hall, Duff Avenue at 10:30am. Wednesdays 6:30pm & Thursdays 12.30pm at St. Giles Church. Minister: Rev Stevie Thomson. Call 01343 551501 or visit www.elginstgileschurch.co.uk St James Church of Scotland Lossiemouth. Sunday family worship 11am including crèche and Sunday school. 6pm: evening service . 7pm: Hands & Feet youth group. Contact Rev. Graham Crawford: 07817 504042. St Margaret’s Church Lossiemouth. Sunday 9.30am: family Eucharist . Thursdays 10am: Holy Communion. Thursdays 5pm: evening prayer. St Sylvester's Catholic Church Elgin. Vigil Mass Saturday 7pm. Sunday Mass 11.45am.Tel: 01343 542280.
Listed alphabetically from M to S and regularly rotated. If you are a member of a church not listed here and would like to be considered for inclusion or if there are any amendments to be made to existing details, email tamsyn@spotlighton.co.uk
tel: 01309 690063
admin@spotlighton.co.uk
VENUE
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Relaxed and informal guided walks dealing with the basics of birdwatching www.birdingecosse.co.uk birdingecosse@hotmail.co.uk
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Fax
STOVES & FIREPLACES
01343 556226
www.elgin-marble.co.uk
Visit our Showroom at New Elgin Road, Elgin IV30 6BA
USEFUL INFORMATION St Andrew’s Day Christmas Day Boxing Day New Year’s Eve New Year’s Day Scottish Bank Holiday Valentine’s Day Mother’s Day
Local & Bank Holidays and Special Days Sat 30th Nov 2014 Wed 25th Dec 2013 Thurs 26th Dec 2013 Tues 31st Dec 2013 Wed 1st Jan 2014 Thurs 2nd Jan 2014 Fri 14th Feb 2014 Sun 30th Mar 2014
Good Friday Easter Sunday Early May Bank Holiday Spring Bank Holiday Summer Bank Holiday Halloween Guy Fawkes Day St Andrew’s Day
School Term Dates
Fri 18th Apr 2014 Sun 20th Apr 2014 Mon 5th May 2014 Mon 26th May 2014 Mon 4th Aug 2014 Fri 31st Oct 2014 Wed 5th Nov 2014 Sun 30th Nov 2014
for 2013/2014 (all dates inclusive) Winter Term Ends Fri 20th Dec 2013 Christmas Holiday Starts Mon 23rd Dec 2013 Christmas Holiday Ends Fri 3rd Jan 2014 Spring Term Starts Mon 6th Jan 2014 Mid-Term Holiday Fri 14th Feb 2014 Mid-Term Holiday Mon 17th Feb 2014 Spring Term Ends Fri 28th Mar 2014 Spring Holiday Starts Mon 31st Mar 2014 Spring Holiday Ends Fri 11th Apr 2014
Summer Term Starts Mon 14th Apr 2014 Good Friday Holiday Fri 18th Apr 2014 May Day Holiday Mon 5th May 2014 In-Service Day Thurs 22nd May 2014 In-Service Day Fri 23rd May 2014 Summer Term Ends Fri 4th Jul 2014 for 2014/2015 (all dates inclusive) Autumn Term Starts Tues 19th Aug 2014 Autumn Term Ends Fri 10th Oct 2014 Autumn Holiday Starts Mon 13 Oct 2014
Police Station ......................................................................101 Bus Station, Elgin ...............................................01343 544222 Citizens Advice Bureau.......................................01343 550088 Inverness Airport .................................................01667 464000 Dallas Village Hall ...............................................01343 890243 Elgin Town Hall ........................01343 547767/562600-To Book Lossie Town Hall ....................................01343 813327/815309 Pluscarden Village Hall ......................................01343 890412 Moray Council.....................................................01343 543451 National Rail Enquiries........................................08457 484950 Elgin Library ........................................................01343 562600 Lossie Library......................................................01343 813334 Elgin Community Council ..................................01343 540615 Moray Leisure Centre .........................................01343 550033 Lossie Swimming Pool ......................................01343 815299
DOCTORS Dr Gray's Hospital, Elgin .....................................0845 4566000 Moray Coast Medical Practice - Hopeman ........01343 830269 Moray Coast Medical Practice - Burghead ........01343 835780 Moray Coast Medical Practice - Lossie ..............0845 3371190 Elgin Community Surgery ..................................01343 542234 Linkwood Medical Centre....................................0845 3376350 Maryhill Health Centre ........................................0845 3370610
Useful Contacts
SCHOOLS Alves Primary School ..........................................01343 850247 Bishopmill Primary School ..................................01343 547841 Burghead Primary School ..................................01343 835529 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
page 8 - December 2013
DENTISTS South Street Dental Practice ..............................01343 542729 Trinity Dental Practice..........................................01343 542697 Apex Dental Studio..............................................01343 556606 Pure Spa Dental ..................................................01343 541164 Laich Dental Practice ..........................................01343 816316 PHARMACIES Alliance Pharmacy..............................................01343 542186 Bishopmill Pharmacy ..........................01343 547374 / 547393 Boots The Chemist ............................................01343 543311 G.F Duthie Pharmacy, Burghead ......................01343 835370 G.F Duthie Pharmacy, 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 Pharmacy ....................................01343 813095 VETS Allen and Matthews ............................................01343 544811 Miller and Swann ................................................01343 542255 Moray Coast Vets, Lossie ..................................01343 815335 If you would like to add a contact or if there are any amendments to be made to existing details, please email tamsyn@spotlighton.co.uk
tel: 01309 690063
admin@spotlighton.co.uk
Sticks ‘n’ Stoves Woodburning stoves Flues, Installation Free surveys and advice TELEPHONE
ET R N ES TE IC IN PR
07789 484393 www.sticksnstoves.co.uk
M ray Flying Club KINLOSS BARRACKS, MORAY, IV36 3UH TRIAL FLYING LESSON VOUCHERS AS GIFTS THIS CHRISTMAS!!! BE DARING, HAVE A GO!!
2 SEATER £67 for 30min or £113 hr 4 SEATER £72.50 for 30min or £124 hr Email to order: enquiries@morayflyingclub.com OR CALL US: 01309 617361 - VALID for 6 MONTHS
15% off Hires and Sales
Gift Vouchers also available expires 31st January 2014
McCalls of Elgin
54 South Street
01343 540590
www.mccalls.co.uk
“ Parliament Blog �
PARLIAMENT BLOG & TIDE TIMES It hardly seems like a year has passed since the last Christmas’ edition of Spotlight and I will firstly take the opportunity to wish all the readers the very best for the festive season and beyond into 2014. The year has absolutely flown by for me and I am very much looking forward to a little bit of rest at home and to catching up with friends and family, as I am sure many of you will be as well. As we head into 2014 there will be a very obvious big political event keeping me busy, in the shape of the referendum, but as a sports fan I’m really looking forward to the Commonwealth Games coming to Scotland. The build up is going to be fantastic and if I can squeeze in a couple of rock concerts along the way it will be an absolutely great year!
Fresh from a busy Halloween and Guy Fawkes with the kids, the family excitement is already mounting as we head towards Christmas. With a job that keeps me away from home most weekdays the biggest boost at Christmas is everybody being at home together and spending quality time. There are many who would love to have that same time at Christmas but who will be working shopworkers, hospitality workers, hospital staff, the emergency services and armed forces personnel who are in various parts of the world carrying out a very challenging role. I would like to wish everyone a very happy Christmas but especially to those who will be away from home.
Angus Robertson MP
Richard Lochhead MSP
LOW TIDE TIMES FOR LOSSIEMOUTH IN DECEMBER Walking on the beach should be possible 2 hours either side of these times 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
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07774 329217
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tel: 01309 690063
admin@spotlighton.co.uk
W
I
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SALE F R I D AY 3 R D J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 4 9 . 3 0 A M TO 5 P M
HUGE REDUCTIONS ON: L A D I E S FA S H I O N . L E I S U R E W E A R M E N S W E A R . S H O E S . AC C E S S O R I E S
Brodie Countryfare . Brodie . By Forres Moray . IV36 2TD . Tel: 01309 641555
www.brodiecountr yfare .com
01343 835222 Fabulous all day menu Locally sourced produce Expert chefs U Teas/coffees Vast array of beers, wines & spirits
FESTIVE BOOKINGS
NOW BEING TAKEN
An economical, easy to heat, new home at Riverview will mean cold winters are a thing of the past.
Reduce your cost of living with a beautiful new 2 or 3 bedroom, fully furnished home at Riverview Residential Park. A private estate exclusively for the over 50’s set by the river in acres of beautiful park land and just a short drive from Inverness. •
Low running costs
•
Fully furnished throughout
•
We will buy your current home 100% market value*
•
No agents fees
•
No stamp duty
•
Move in, in just 6 weeks
*Based on the average of two independent valuations.
Call Riverview today to arrange your home viewing
01343 812 000 Mundole, Forres, Morayshire, IV36 2TA
Stay warm and cosy this winter and with prices starting at
£145,000
your new home won’t cost the earth.
Riverview RESIDENTIAL PARK www.RichmondWight.com
Range of High back chairs Riser/Recliner Chairs & Electric Beds...
AND
The Piers Cafe
...everything to keep you comfortable this winter.
...HAVE A OPE N TO THE PUBLN IC LICENCE From 26th Dec – 2nd Jan So Come Along
Hours of Business MON - FRI 9am - 5pm
01309 676677 sales@wheelchaircare.co.uk 21 West Road, Greshop Industrial Estate, Forres IV36 2GW (Behind Lidl)
And Have A Dr ink With Your Meal, Or Jo in In At The Bar!
Easy Parking & Disabled Toilet Facilities
Hogmanay Din ner
Bucks Fizz Brun ch O New Years Day n Bar Menu On O ther Nights Check out deta ils on www.rfyc .net BOOKINGS ESSE NTIAL
01309 690247
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For further details on all our events or Piers Cafe call 01309 690247
RFYC and Findhorn Piers CafĂŠ are on Facebook
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Celebrate Ce GCelebrate In Style ye
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H O T E L ‡ B A R ‡ R E S T A U R A NT
Victoria ictoria Road, Forres
01309 672410
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CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS Winter Wonderland Theme
e info@ramneehotel.com e: info@ For menus and further information www go to: www.ramneehotel.com Find d us on and “Like� to keep up to date on our offers and events.
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with a Chocolate Twist! only ÂŁ29.75 FESTIVE LUNCHES S from
ÂŁ16.25
FESTIVE DINNER from
ÂŁ19.95
HOGMANY CARVERY
& AULD YEARS NIGHT DISCO
7pm until the wee small hours adults ÂŁ39.50 children ÂŁ24.50 (under 15)
SU AULD YEARS NIGHT SUPPER served in the bar & restaurant from 5 pm (reservation recommended)
BUCKIE FURNITURE, CARPET & MOBILITY CENTRE Thousands of Beds Available HALF PRICE CORNER SOFA SAVE £200 Was £399 NOW
£199
Italian Style
Limited Offer WDV Now £499 the
CENTRE
REMNANTS of CARPETS at BARGAIN PRICES
for all your furnishing needs
Carpets s Beds s Blinds Bedroom Furniture
D .......... £85 4.29mSOx L4m LD.......... £75 3.90mSxO4m 3.88m xSO4mLD.......... £75 3.82m x 4m .......... £75
3.45m x 4m .......... £65 2.50m x 4m .......... £35 2.20m x 4m .......... £35 2.00m x 4m .......... £35
Pictures for illustration purposes only.
E&OE
45-49 WEST CHURCH STREET, BUCKIE
Tel/Fax 01542 832653 www.buckie-furniture.eu
FREE DELIVERY TO ELGIN AND SURROUNDING AREAS
“It will pay you to shop with us”
BUCKIE FURNITURE
CARPET& MOBILITY CENTRE
Tailor Made
Alterations You name it - we sew it!
HUGE RANGE OF REMNANT STOCK Quote: (‘SpotLight Offer’)
UP TO
50%OFF
Blinds
*
FREE advice
FRE
measuriE ng
Jackets
Trousers
FREE e xpert fitting
*Off specially selected blinds.
VERTICAL
Hems
VISION
SHUTTER
Dresses
Curtains
Zips and
...much much more
HAVE YO U VISITE D OUR NE SHOW W COME AN ROOM YET? D SEE OU ON DISPL R RANGES AY
11a Commercial Street Elgin, IV30 1BS 01343 208425 Reasonable Rates
For a FREE no-obligation quotation in the comfort of your own home
Christmas Gi ft Vouchers now availab le!
(01343) 552 555 www.horizonblinds.co.uk
Showroom UNIT 1, TYOCK, ELGIN
HIGHLAND CATERHAM HIRE BADENTINAN, ELGIN IV30 8QX, MORAYSHIRE
01343 842657 07831 847212
Meals served All Day 85 High Street, Fochabers Morayshire IV32 7DH Tel: 01343 820981
email: thequaich@mail.com www.thequaichcafe.co.uk
Highland Caterham Hire offers you the opportunity to self drive hire an iconic British sports car, the Caterham Seven. Additionally, chauffeur driven days / tours, gift vouchers and wedding use are all catered for. We are based in the beautiful county of Moray, near Elgin, and ideally situated to allow you easy access to the best driving roads and scenery that Scotland has to offer. Should you wish to explore beyond the wonders of Scotland then the cars are available for European tours.
DAY TRIPS HOLIDAYS
TH E ID E A XMAS L or B IR TH D A Y G IF T GIFT VOUCHERS
AVAILABLE
PLEASE CALL FOR BOOKINGS OR DETAILS
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Offering delicious homemade Scottish food in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. With options from hearty breakfast, appetizing lunch, coffee and cakes and enjoyable evening meals.
EASYMO OVE V REMOVALS REMO EASYMOVE AS EA ER A SY SYM YMO MO OV VE VE E M O V A L S
No Task too Small Just Give us a Call
Low Prices, Reliable, Friendly, Loca Service Local 0 7912 424512 424512 OR 01343 01343 559594 07912
A Lot of Shopping under one roof
GROUND FLOOR Ȉ ͚ Ȉ Ȉ Ȉ Ȉ Ȉ Ȉ ͛ Ȉ Ȉ Ȉ Ȉ ͜ Ȉ Ǥ Ǥ Ȉ Ȉ LOWER GROUND FLOOR Ȉ Ȉ Ȉ Ȉ Ȉ Ȉ Ȉ ±
Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ Ǧ ͘͠Ǥ͘͘ Ǧ ͘͝Ǥ͛͘ Ȉ ǣ ͘͠Ǥ͘͘ Ǧ ͘͝Ǥ͛͘ Ȉ ǣ ͙͘Ǥ͘͘ Ǧ ͝Ǥ͘͘ Ǥ
egistered Susan Townsend Townsend HCPC rregistered
Podiatrist/Chir Podiatrist/Chiropodist opodist Service Mobile Ser vice treatment Home visit tr eatment £28 01343 831365 or 07951872872
H O T E L B A R R E S T A U R A NT
Delicious lunch & evening meals Great Coffee, Fine Tea, fresh Sandwiches, Cakes & Desserts Sunday Roast Carvery Private dining rooms for your special event
s !LL 4YPES 3IZES /F )NTERIOR "LINDS -ADE 4O -EASURE s 'UARANTEED !FTER 3ALES 3ERVICE s -EMBER OF the British Blind 3HUTTER !SSOCIATION ""3!
#HILD 3AFETY IS )MPORTANT TO US EVERY BLIND IS FITTED WITH &REE CHILD SAFETY DEVICE Made to measure Blinds up to 50% OFF Complete Range FREE FITTING
Victoria Road, Forres
01309 672 410
s
www.ramneehotel.com
Xmas Gift Vouchers available
EARLY DINING DISCOUNT Save 20% on meals between 5 - 6.30pm upon presentation of this voucher (excludes all Festive Menu & Carvery)
01343 549939 Email: blindspotelgin@btinternet.com
%LGIN S 0REMIER -ANUFACTURERS s "LIND -ANUFACTURERS s 3ALES s 2EPAIRS s !LTERATIONS
H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G
Offer subject to availability –expires 30 March 2014
The
DISCOUNTS APPLY ON ALL SERVICES BELOW
Professional WINTER
L.A.W.N C.A.R.E SERVICES
Now is the time to have your lawns expertly prepared for Winter and the new growing season. Hollow Tine Aeration and Scarifying are best done at this time of year - From Autumn onwards. Hollow Tine Aeration Removes cores to de-compact the soil (after possibly heavy traffic through Summer!!) Tining allows water, nutrients and oxygen to reach the root zone of the grass plant more easily. Deep Scarifying Will thin out and remove much of the thatch and moss which has built up over the season giving room for new shoots to grow and spread in the Spring. We clean up and remove all the waste after scarifying or hollow tining your lawn Autumn Treatment Programme Our renowned Autumn/Winter treatment formula slowly releases nutrients through the winter, feeding and strengthening roots, maintaining the lawn's deep green presentation with our moss controller, if required. A New Mid-Winter Moss Control Service available to well-er-try and keep the moss under control before the spring new growth. Also Our new lawn renovation program to revive old tired out lawns and bring them back to life - please phone for details.
A happy Christmas to all our customers old and new with best wishes for the New Year For your no-obligation survey, analysis & quotation, please contact the experts on:
01343 811114
A local business built on trust, reliability & quality of service
H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G
G H I G H I G
I G H I G H I
H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G H I G
CARD PAYMENTS ACCEPTED
Where’s Santa? (,1'((5 $; $7 21 21'$; 5' (&(0%(5 ",6,7 $17$ ,1 +,6 *52772 $0 30 ((7 $17$=6 5(,1'((5 ,1 7+(,5 3(1 30 30 #$9( $17$ 2)) 21 +,6 )$5(:(// 3$5$'( 30 1-2; 285 63(&,$/ :,17(5 %%4 +,/'5(1=6 7($&836 5,'( 5 5$;=6 #$9( $',2 $1' 08&+ 08&+ 025( +23 )25 /$67 0,187( )22' *,)7 ,'($6 72;6 $1' 672&.,1* ),//(56 #( $/62 +$9( $17$ ,1 +,6 52772 21 !+856'$; 7+ (& 30 30 '85,1* 285 ),1$/ /$7( 1,*+7 6+233,1* (9(1,1* $// 25 9,6,7 ::: %52',(&28175;)$5( &20 $17$=6
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PROMOTION AVAILABLE: 1st November 2013 – 1st March 2014 only Winter Open Competitions Every Sunday 9 am-12 noon Contact webpage for more details
www.kinloss-golf.co.uk
IDEAL GIFT FOR XMAS Offer ends 24th Dec
Nov 2013 - March 2015 Full Membership £295 Senior Membership £225 Country Membership £225 Junior Membership £60 Winter Membership Oct 2013 – Mar 2014 £85 and £50 off 2014 membership Tel: 01343 850585
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PLEASE SEND US DETAILS OF YOUR EVENTS Deadline for the January Issue: Friday, 29th November Website: www.spotlighton.co.uk Email: tamsyn@spotlighton.co.uk Telephone: 01309 690063 Inclusion of events into the What’s On is free. We do not accept submissions for classes, courses or workshops.
Please note: contact venues and organisers first as there may be changes to events.
NOVEMBER 26 tuesday sportmoray recognition awards elgin town hall. recognising sporting individuals and teams from moray. for further details, contact 01343 563657 pirate highland xmas promotion evening 6pm - 9pm at highland beauty clinic, 153 high street, forres. tickets £5 - avail from 1st nov. call 01309 675674
30 saturday forres christmas lights switch-on 5pm, tolbooth, forres. with culbin singers and elgin city band. james ross concert @ brodie castle within the main drawing room. for further details and to book call 0844 493 2156 or go onto www.nts.org.uk/events coffee morning and christmas stalls 10am -12pm, lossiemouth town hall. action marine park & other local charities. £2 tea ticket. lots of christmas gift stalls, christmas raffle, kids stalls etc. call 01343 812807 roseisle village hall christmas fayre 11am - 2pm. shop for unique christmas presents, visit santa and relax and enjoy our homemade refreshments. ceilidh in aid of macmillan cancer support (lhanbryde & urquhart committee) 7:30pm, lhanbryde community centre. entertainment by sandy ross and friends. £6. for details call eleanor cantlay 01343 842338 or betty forsyth 01343 842435
27 wednesday outfit moray & bike revolution agm 7pm warehouse theatre, lossiemouth. interested people are invited to attend to hear reports of the work of outfit moray and bike revolution in the past year.
OFFERI
QUAL I T COOKE Y R CL ASS Y ES
28 thursday moray society lecture 2pm, elgin museum hall. a talk by margaret woodward. entry is £3, £2 for society members, £1.50 for students. for more information call elgin museum on 01343 543675 or email curator@elginmuseum.org.uk
29 friday miro film night: the old man and the sea 7pm for 7:30pm in the milne institute, findhorn. £5 at the door includes a glass of wine. in aid of moray inshore rescue organisation. st andrews ceilidh 7:30pm, duffus village hall. byob. tickets £8 from duffus post office. son al son @ universal hall 7:30pm. £12/£10 conc /£8 u16s. call the phoenix stores on 01309 690110 or visit www.universalhall.co.uk wine and pottery night @ the loft 7:30pm. call 01343 850111 to book a place. pamper/christmas shopping evening 7pm - 9:30pm, lhanbryde primary school. over 50 stalls with some unusual christmas gifts. enjoy relaxing treatments too. tickets £4 (incl. festive nibbles and drinks) available from the school office. over 15's only. moray rock garden : jim jermyn - eastern alps 7:30pm, new elgin hall annex. admin@spotlighton.co.uk
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Within the comfort of your own home. Going that “extra mile” so you don’t have to. IDEAL XMAS We also sells products such as adult, GIFTS!! children and toddler aprons as well as gift vouchers, tea towels and recipe binders.
Phone or Text: 07857 313138 Or Email: homecookmoray@gmail.com Website: www.home-cook.biz Jayne Millar – Founder of Home Cook
tel: 01309 690063
December 2013 - page 19
Fantastic hotel discounts with
Edinburgh
Thistle Edinburgh City, The King James U
p to
53%
DISCO
Up to 53% discount at selected hotels
NOVEM BER TO MA RCH 2 nights from only £65 BB
Glasgow
Newtonmore, Speyside
Arrochar, Argyll
Hilton Garden Inn
Highlander Hotel
Arrochar Hotel Up to
Up to
37%
DISCOU
DISCOU
NT
42%
DISCOU
NT
NOVEMBER TO MARCH 2 nights from only £58 DBB
NOVEMBER TO MARCH 2 nights from only £69 BB
Up to
31%
NOVEMBER TO MARCH 2 nights from only £54 DBB
Braemar, Aberdeenshire
Oban
Blackpool
Fife Arms Hotel
Regent Hotel
The Imperial Hotel
Up to
Up to
40%
DISCOU
NOVEMBER TO MARCH 2 nights from only £69 BB
Up to
38%
DISCOU
NT
NOVEMBER TO MARCH 2 nights from only £60 DBB
To book simply call 08430
NT
NT
42%
Includes dinner on one evening
DISCOU
NOVEMBER TO MARCH 2 nights from only £79.50 BB
55 44 33 or visit
NT
UNT
Spotlight has teamed up with easy-breaks.com to bring you a fantastic selection of short breaks on a large selection of hotels throughout the UK. From their new Autumn 2013 - Spring 2104 brochure, there is a vast and varied selection of getaways in some of the most stunning locations in Scotland, England and Wales. As usual, easy-breaks.com are offering superb low rates in some of the most popular short break destinations such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, Oban, The Lake District and Yorkshire. So whether it’s a planned trip or a last minute weekend away, for a romantic, spa, entertainment, activity, festive or just a “get away from it all” break, easy-breaks.com has the holiday and the budget to suit everyone, in more than 500 hotels throughout the UK and Ireland. With Christmas sneaking up fast, easy-breaks.com gift vouchers make a great gift. They can be purchased to any value, are valid for 12 months and can be used in any of the 500 hotels with easy-breaks.com. The easy-breaks.com team is available daily between 9am and 9pm to help with queries, either over the phone, or via an on-line chat service, making your next short break ‘easy to click’, ‘easy to call’ and ‘easy to go’. Here is a selection of short breaks available - all rates are per person per break.
Penrith, Lake District
Aberfeldy, Perthshire
BEST WESTERN Shap Wells Hotel
Breadalbane Arms Hotel Up to
DISCOU
31%
DISCOU
Up to
40% NT
NT
NOVEMBER TO MARCH 2 nights from only £80 DBB
NOVEMBER TO MARCH 2 nights from only £64 DBB
Harrogate, Yorkshire
Gretna, Dumfriesshire
The Yorkshire Hotel
Gretna Hall Hotel
Up to
Up to
27%
DISCOU
NOVEMBER TO MARCH 2 nights from only £79 DBB
37%
DISCOU
NT
NOVEMBER TO MARCH 2 nights from only £74 DBB
NT
BROCH URE OUT NO W! Simp 08430 5ly call 54 and pre 4 33 s option 2s
DBB = Dinner, bed & breakfast. BB = bed & breakfast. TERMS & CONDITIONS Prices quoted are per person, per break for number of nights stated and based on two guests sharing a double or twin room. Discounts based on the maximum available tariff direct with the hotel. All offers include evening meal and breakfast unless otherwise stated. All reservations must be pre-paid at time of booking by credit card or debit card. Please enquire for single and family room rates. All bookings are subject to an administration charge. All rates are subject to availability which may be limited, some offers exclude bank holidays. Full easy-breaks. com terms and conditions apply, please see website.
treebadour puppet theatre presents a christmas special ‘oakydoak and bluebell’ 3pm, kinloss community church hall. £4 per person. to book or for more information phone elisabeth julian on 01309 691225 or visit www.treebadour.co.uk mince pie and coffee morning 10am - 12noon at anderson's care home, elgin. dancing queen abba tribute @ ironworks 7pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
PSSSSSST SANTA, BEAUTIFUL REFURBISHED BIKES MAINTENANCE CLASSES GIFT VOUCHERS
OPEN 9-5 MON-FRI 15 SHORE STREET, LOSSIEMOUTH
7 saturday - 8 sunday brodie castle christmas craft fair 10am - 4pm. find the perfect present for those who have everything. adults £4. free mince pie and mulled wine at the stables further details at www.nts.org.uk/events
SPECIAL SATURDAY SALES: 30 NOV 9:30 - 12:30 BIKE REV HQ, LOSSIEMOUTH, IV31 6PB 14 DEC 9:30 - 12:30 VARIS TRAINING, FORRES, IV36 2GW 21 DEC 9:30 - 12:30 BIKE REV HQ, LOSSIEMOUTH, IV31 6PB
winter craft fair 11am - 3pm, st james church hall there will be a wide variety of stalls along with a santas grotto, fun stalls and refreshments. free entry.
DECEMBER 1 sunday walk, jog, run moray winter 5k and 1.5k challenge buckie. www.walkjogrunmoray.org.uk lofty arts family craft session @ the loft 11am - 1pm. £4 per child. moray craft fair - christmas fair 11am - 3pm at bishopmill hall, elgin. glenn tilbrook @ ironworks 7:30pm. cabaret seating. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
8 sunday miltonduff christmas craft fair and santa’s grotto 10am - 12pm, miltonduff hall. adult £2 entry. incl. tea/coffee and mince pie. children free entry. for further details call lorna on 07894 521559. christmas tree lights switch on 4pm, keith north church, mid street, keith. carols and hot chocolate. in aid of sunshine developmental playgroup. elgin city youth development christmas fayre 12pm 4pm, elgin city football club (function suite) borough briggs road, elgin. stalls, raffles and more. tickets £2 includes tea/coffee, christmas pie/shortbread, kids free. money raised for youth development fund.
4 wednesday mums and tots christmas pottery painting session lofty pots 11am - 4:30pm at the loft. tel 01343 850111 to book
5 thursday black star riders @ ironworks 7pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
6 friday sigma (moray’s astronomy club): christmas quiz and prize draw 7pm for a 7:30pm start. birnie village hall, near elgin. www.sigma-astro.co.uk first friday christmas fayre 10am - 2pm, duffus village hall. more info from cath on 01343 837864
6 friday - 7 saturday bring a party to a party! @ the loft christmas party nights. tel 01343850111 to book.
7 saturday holy trinity church seasonal fayre & coffee morning 10am - 12pm, church hall, trinity place, elgin. adults £2 / children 50p. usual stalls & raffle. lhanbryde comunity centre quiz night in aid of hall funds 7pm for 7:30pm. £2 pp. teams of up to four. byob and nibbles. bishopmill primary school christmas fair 10am 12noon. adult entrance fee £2 includes tea ticket. stalls, raffle, children’s activities and much more. page 22 - December 2013
NAIRN Nairn Com Community mmunity & Arts Centre C A Your Yo our local venue ffor films, shows, concerts, and parties. W Wide ide range of activities for all ages.
DECEMBER EVENTS 2nd .... Cinema Nairn “A Christmas Carol” (u) Matinee 2pm Mon 2nd....Cinema 7th......................................... Rotary Club Christmas Auction Sat 7th.........................................Rotary 14th................. Music Nairn – Richard Morrison and Friends Sat 14th.................Music
Not organised your Christmas Party yet?? Why not join us at our Christmas Party Night on 13th December? A few places still available.
The Board of Dir Directors rectors ectors and nd Staf Stafffff wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New YYear! ea For further details, ttelephone elephone 01667 453476, e-mail info@nairncc.co.uk or check out our website at ww w.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk www.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk
tel: 01309 690063
admin@spotlighton.co.uk
pluscarden hall christmas craft fair 2pm - 4:30pm at pluscarden hall. there will also be mince pies, tea and mulled wine. alabama 3 - undaground 4 life tour @ ironworks 7:30pm. 0871 7894173 / www.ironworksvenue.com
11 wednesday charity bottle bingo and teas 7:30pm doors open at 6:30pm in lossiemouth football club. melissa carr is fundraising to go out to south africa for a year as a volunteer to work in orphanages and teaching the children basic english. for scottish charity project trust contact melissa on 01343 813709 for info. advent service of remembrance 7pm, doors open 6pm, moray crematorium. memorial christmas tree to hang your special message and light a candle. mince pies and mulled wine will be served after the service and donations to marie curie cancer care.
Christmas Carol Concert for NHS Grampian Health Services Choir Elgin Town Hall • Sunday 15th December 2013 • 2:30pm Tickets from ‘Sound and Vision’, Elgin £10/£8
Contact 01463 713080 for more details
15 sunday red kites @ ironworks 7:30pm. over 14s. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
16 monday elgin & district parkinson's support group members christmas meal 6pm for 6:30pm at the beechtree restaurant, moray college. prebooked. reminder of change of date and venue.
19 thursday df concerts presents: the view @ ironworks 7pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
At Elgin Town Hall
20 friday - 21 saturday bring a party to a party! @ the loft christmas party nights. tel 01343850111 to book time travellers tavern presents: medieval christmas banquets 2013 @ ironworks 7pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
Performed by Elgin Amateur Dramatic Society (EADS)
Wednesday 11th to Saturday 14th December Doors open Wednesday to Saturday 7pm Matinee Saturday: doors open 2pm
23 monday - 24 tuesday
Tickets: £10 and concessions £8 Groups of 10 or more 10% discount
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nativity rocks rock academy performing arts christmas show, elgin town hall. monday 2:30pm & 7:30pm, tuesday 2:30pm. for tickets call 01343 813111
& "' & "
28 saturday
Follow us on Facebook: Elgin Amateur Dramatic Society (EADS)
slam @ ironworks 10:30pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
13 friday torridon @ ironworks 7:30pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
13 friday - 14 saturday bring a party to a party! @ the loft christmas party nights. tel 01343850111 to book.
14 saturday treebadour puppet theatre presents a christmas special ‘oakydoak and bluebell’ 11am and 1pm at tolbooth, forres. £4 per person. to book or for more information phone elisabeth julian on 01309 691225 or visit www.treebadour.co.uk culbin singers christmas concert 7pm, st laurence church, forres. adult £12, concs £10, child £5 from members 01309 672464 or email alasdair@ manachie.eclipse.co.uk sister bliss (faithless) dj set @ ironworks 10:30pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com admin@spotlighton.co.uk
31 tuesday the loft hogmanay ceildih tickets 01343 850111 / www.wegottickets.com rhythmnreel hogmanay party @ ironworks 9pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
Pilates And Yoga Classes Weekly Combined Workshops Monthly
tel: 01309 690063
CHRIS TM VOUCH AS ER AVAILA S BLE
Contact Brigid at Tel: 07884 497 547 Email: b.aitken614@btinternet.com www.thornhall.co.uk/workshop December 2013 - page 23
caring
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Quarriers Carer Support Service (Moray)
identify the changes you can make to try
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Don’t wait until it gets worse. Take that
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their family member’s drinking or drug
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effect it’s having on other family You don’t need to know what to ask for will listen to your concerns and help you
Has their drink or drug problem become your little secret? You’re not alone. Talk to us.
If you are caring for someone with a drink or drug problem, it can help to talk.
Call Liz: 01343 555031 Text Liz: 07896 967207 Email Liz: carersmoray@quarriers.org.uk
www.quarrierscarersservice.org.uk Carer Support Service (Moray)
easy to call • easy to click • easy to go ONLY SCOTTISH COMPANY LIKE US OPEN ‘TIL 9PM! All offers include evening meal and breakfast unless otherwise stated. Hotels with include leisure facilities. BB = bed & breakfast.
MORE BREAK AVAILA S B TO BOO LE K ONLINE & ON T H PHONE E
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ABERDEEN
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2 nights (Thur-Sun)
November to March 3 nights (Thur-Sun)
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Terms and conditions: All rates are per person, per break based on two guests sharing a double or twin room and include dinner, bed and breakfast unless otherwise stated, please check for family and single room rates and availability. All reservations must be pre-paid at time of booking by credit or debit card and an administration charge applies to each reservation. All rates are subject to availability which may be limited- when they’re gone, they’re gone, and excludes festive period, so book quickly to avoid disappointment. *If you find the same deal cheaper on any other third party booking site, we will match that rate. Full terms and conditions apply, please see website.
recipe
Chef’s Confidential John McCruden of Chapter One - Presents
The Imaginarium of Cookery It’s never too late to cook. Open untouched worlds, new sensations and cultures. Become an entertainer in your own home, learn to make special recipes for special friends. Stimulate your creative ability. Invent, cook and produce your own recipes. Be a cooking explorer and join the revolution. It’s that time of year again when everyone is cooking turkey but for this month’s recipe we are going to do seafood instead. Try this ultra cool fish dish and say stuff the turkey! Thanks to David and the team for inviting me back-let’s start a cooking revolution.
Seafood and Pumpkin Stew Sweet winter vegetables such as pumpkins and squash are intensely warming and great value. Here I have used them with shellfish – the flavours work perfectly together. 12 large raw or frozen defrosted shell-on prawns 2 bay leaves 10 peppercorns 10 parsley sprigs Small pumpkin or butternut squash 3 tbsp oil 2 tbsp mustard seeds 3 sprigs rosemary 250g firm white fish 8 scallops Peel the prawns. Put the shells in a large saucepan with the bay leaves, peppercorns and parsley. Add 1 litre water and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes. Peel and chop the pumpkin, and brown in the oil in a large pan. When nicely coloured, add the mustard seeds, brown for a couple of minutes, add the rosemary, then pour in the prawn stock through a sieve, discarding the contents. Season, simmer for 20 minutes then mash. Add the fish, cut into large pieces, then the prawns and just colour the scallops. Remove the twiggy rosemary to serve in deep bowls Keep Exploring, John
26
Kindly supplied by John McCruden of Chapter One 39 High Street, Forres. Tel: 01309 671682
ChapterRestaurant One
CHRISTMAS Lunch or Dinner
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garden
Caring about...
Lawnmowers – Some December Thoughts Now the mowing is definitely finished for the season, petrol mowers should be booked in for a service if it hasn’t been done recently. If you wait until Easter you will join a long queue since everyone else will want the same thing. At the very least, check if the blades need sharpened or replaced. This really needs doing every year to avoid blunt or pitted blades tearing the grass rather than cutting it. Poor mowing is one of the main causes of grass browning off as the leaf tips are bruised by blunt blades. Often it is not worth paying to have the blades of lighter electric mowers sharpened as you can buy new blades as little as £10 or so. For smaller lawns, any of the many electric mowers are suitable (or push mowers are still available). Battery mowers avoid the cable problems, but are more expensive. If you use a cable, you should have a Safety Cut Out device at the socket. A petrol mower becomes more suitable for a lawn the size of a tennis court and perhaps a bit bigger. They are heavier, more expensive, but more powerful and should help with thicker, longer or even wet grass. If it takes you 3 hours or more to cut the grass, chances are you may be in ride-on mower country ! Whatever your lawn size, the best thing you can do over the winter is keep leaves off the grass. Prolonged covering by drifts of leaves will rot the grass underneath, and it may not recover next year. For more information about a personalised lawn improvement plan for your lawn (kind of like the window cleaner !), from just £5 per month on monthly DD, plus useful downloads and photos, look us up at www.greenthumb.co.uk. Although GreenThumb is the UK’s No.1 national lawncare franchise with over 200 branches, and treats half a million lawns, we are your local branch and cover the whole Moray Firth area. Contact Alastair or Fiona for a FREE LAWN ANALYSIS on 01667 460012, or email us at: inverness@greenthumb.co.uk
28
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PERU Peru was the home to the Incas, the most advanced civilisation in the world, until the Spanish conquered them in the early 16th century and took them in a totally different direction. It is now a democratic republic, with land varying from the arid plains of the Pacific coast to the peaks of the Andes Mountains and the tropical forests of the Amazon basin. Thus a 3 week trip to Peru is full of fascination.
Children on a floating island, Lake Titicaca
Dreaming of...
travel
We started in Lima, the capital city which rarely sees the sun or rain but is warm, and travelled down to Paracas to see the ancient Nazcar lines â&#x20AC;&#x201C; large drawings in the desert best seen from light aircraft. Because Peruâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s land is quite volatile an earthquake in the 1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exposed interesting geology which has been transformed into a National Reserve, and includes a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Peruâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Galapagosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. The islands are covered in many varieties of birds and sealions, with penguins, pelicans and storks to top it off. Then we flew to Arequipa in the Volcano country, a city close to a live volcano, known as the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;White Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; due to its volcanic Sillar stone buildings. The main features include several old monasteries and convents, and being on a river the countryside round about is very green. From there we went to the Colca Canyon which is larger than the Grand Canyon, and saw the bread basket of the Inca Empire â&#x20AC;&#x201C; fields upon fields in the terraced format producing vegetables and fruit. In Cusco we saw a very fine, developed city, the capital of the old Inca Empire, and today a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Inca remains are extraordinary, and it is from here that we went to Lake Titicaca, staying on an island for 2 nights, and then on to Machu Picchu and the early morning climb up Wanapicchu, the small mountain behind the village. At 3,800m above sea level Lake Titicaca also has inhabited floating islands, accessed in reed boats, and ships on it built on the Clyde in the 1890â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and transported up to the Lake in pieces and reassembled. Finally we spent 3 days in the Amazon Jungle, going Caiman spotting in the evenings (small crocodiles) in motorised canoes, and walking through Nature Reserves seeing various types of monkeys, spiders, lizards and birds of all types followed by a spot of fishing for Piranha (caught 2!).
30
Machu Picchu
The hotels generally were of a very good standard and service was excellent â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Peru is well geared for tourists, the Inca trails are fascinating, and the textile industry is alive and well with Vicuna and Alpaca as their fine fibres.
Information kindly supplied by
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Top 5 Xmas Tips 1.
Fairy lights arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just for your Christmas tree. You can use this lighting to create different atmospheres in different rooms. Perhaps drape them across a mantel piece or you could wrap them around old urns or statues for a subtle but effective look. Decorating the tree is the most important part. I tend to keep it light and simple, with my Christmas colours being silver and white and add lots of fairy lights, to give it that extra special Christmas twinkle. You can add pussy willow to all the branches which make them fan out.
3.
One of the main things I associate with Christmas is scents and fragrance. The addition of scented Christmas candles is vital. Place them throughout the house so that you are constantly reminded what time of year it is. When you are sitting down to eat Christmas dinner, you want your guests to feel as though they are in a enchanted Christmas home. Use big bold accessories on the dining table to help create this atmosphere. I use big chunky napkin rings on simple linen napkins or and a large centre piece for the table. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to put all your xmas cards up, get a big bowl and throw the rest into it.
5.
.2
Great Christmas accessories and displays are a must around the house. I like to fill large glass vases with baubles, usually in colour co-ordination with my tree! These look great especially when displayed in rows.
Have a Merry Xmas from everyone at SpotLight
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When the party is over... We see in the Bible that we are all unclean in God’s sight because of our sins. You may not think that you are a hell-deserving sinner, but God is Holy and He hates sin. Sin will keep you from being with God in heaven for eternity and damn you to Hell, unless you receive God’s forgiveness for sin which is found only in His Son Jesus Christ. God’s word reveals that if you die in an unclean & unforgiven state, because of your own choice, you’ll go to hell with all the other people who refused God’s mercy. There are many people, and you may be one of them, who believe that life should be one never ending party; friends to meet, places to go, and things to get and do, seeking constant amusement in the pursuit of happiness, needing non-stop activity to fill the emptiness inside, to fight the boredom that surrounds them.
You may think. “That’s okay - all my party friends will be there too!” Yes, sadly they will be there too if they too reject Christ, but the thick blackness of “outer darkness” will separate you from each other. It is a place of torment, never ending fear and punishment and you’ll be there on your own.
Right now you are without God in this world and have no hope, but in Christ Jesus you, who are far off, can be brought near by the blood of Christ; He Drugs, alcohol, immoral relationships, money can be your peace. You can know that when you and music are some of the most popular die (and you will die) you will be in Heaven, not choices in this party called life. We don’t want Hell. to think about the fact the party will end. However there is an enemy to all this pleasure- Take a moment, please consider and underseeking excitement. It is death. We all have an stand God’s love for you in giving His Son, the Wonderful Lord Jesus Christ to die for your sin on appointment with death and eternity. The Cross of Calvary and then three days later to You have a God-given eternal soul and the rise again from the dead. He can be your Saviour. Bible makes it clear that you will spend You must call upon the name of the Lord, acknowleternity somewhere when the party is over. edging and turning from your sins and trusting Where you will be in eternity may not matter to Him, and only Him, to save you. you right now. The thought of facing a sin-hating, Holy God or talk of His dear Son the For God so loved the world that he gave his only Lord Jesus Christ are subjects you probably begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. He avoid at all costs. that believeth on him is not condemned: but he The Lord is trying to reach you now, because that believeth not is condemned already, because once your “party” is over it will be too late. he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God (John 3:16,18)
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BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL
santabooking@keith-dufftown-railway.co.uk or 01309 691265
Every effort will be made to run the trains as advertised but they may be subject to cancellation at short notice due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances, see terms and conditions.
Christmas & New Y Year ear 2013 The Royal Hotel & Restaurant Restaurant es
www.theroyalhotelandrestaurant.co.uk
Party arty Nights h Saturday 7th December 4 Course Meal £32.95 Dancing to “Savannah”
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nature
7KH %LUG 0DQ CHRISTMAS IS COMING It is good to be back in harness and finally have time to return to writing the monthly article for Spotlight magazine. With Festive period fast approaching our mantelpieces and bookshelves will be adorned with cards wishing us Seasons Greetings, a high percentage of which will depict one of Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite birds, the Robin. It is also probably the bird I get asked most questions about at this time of year, with the two most popular being; How do you tell the difference between male and female Robins and is it the same Robin that visits my garden each day? Now to answer the problem of can you tell males and female apart? In a word the answer is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Noâ&#x20AC;?. In the main the males have a slightly longer wing, but this really is marginal and not obvious just by looking at the birds.
Is it the same bird that visits my garden each day? Well â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yesâ&#x20AC;? it can be; some birds become very tame and these are undoubtedly the same individual. However during the UK winter our resident Robins can be joined by huge numbers of continental birds; these usually show a more orange colour to the breast than the British race which has the signature red/orange breast. However once again the difference is very slight and a practised eye is needed. I recall a few years ago catching and ringing 27 individual Robins in my garden and never once seeing a bird with a ring on its leg! Robins carry a lot of superstitions and myths. My favourite is that you must make a wish when you see the first Robin of the New Year, and your luck will increased if the bird is flying upwards.... bizarre! If this article has raised your interest in birds, why not come on one of our â&#x20AC;&#x153;for beginners guided walks.â&#x20AC;? Go to http://birdingecosse.co.uk for further details, we look forward to meeting you. Until next month â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good Birdingâ&#x20AC;?
36
Information kindly supplied by Birding Ecosse, offering Birdwatching for beginners workshops. s WWW BIRDINGECOSSE CO UK s BIRDINGECOSSE HOTMAIL CO UK
2013 Christmas and New Year arrangements Council offices All council offices will be closed to the public from 3pm on Monday, December 24 until 8.45am on Thursday, January 3.
Emergency council services Over the holiday period the emergency out-of-hours service will operate as normal on 08457 565656 for all council services, including matters of child protection.
Community care Community care will operate on December 27, 28 and 31 and can be contacted via 01343 563999. Support workers will be contactable via their usual numbers. Day centres will be closed from December 21 until New Year. Swimming pools, fitness centres and community centres Buckie and Forres swimming pools and fitness centres and Keith and Lossiemouth sports and community centres – all closed from December 24 to January 2 inclusive, with a holiday activity timetable operating on January 3, 4, 5 and 6 before the normal timetable resumes on January 7. Forres House Community Centre – closed from December 24 to January 5 inclusive. Elgin Sports and Community Centre, Cullen Community and Residential Centre and Milne’s Learning Centre fitness room – closed from December 22 to January 2 inclusive. Speyside Sports and Community Centre – closed from December 24 to January 5 inclusive. Football pitches and pavilions Closed from December 24 to January 2 inclusive.
Refuse and recycling All services will be closed on December 25 and 25 and on January 1 and 2. Household refuse and recycling collections which would normally be made on December 25 and 26 will be made on Saturday, December 29 and Sunday, December 30 respectively. Collections which would normally be made on January 1 and 2 will be made on Saturday, January 5 and Sunday, January 6 respectively. For commercial refuse that would normally be uplifted on December 25 and January 1, the excess will be uplifted on Friday, December 28 and Friday, January 4 respectively. Commercial refuse that would normally be collected on December 26 and January 2 will be uplifted on Saturday, December 29 and Saturday, January 5 respectively.
Commercial paper/card and glass collections that would normally be made on December 25 and 26 will be made on Friday, December 29 and Saturday, December 29 respectively. Collections that would normally be made on January 1 and 2 will be made on Friday, January 4 and Saturday, January 5 respectively. The Chanonry recycling centre in Elgin will be closed on December 25 and 26 and January 1 and January 2. The recycling centres at Forres Buckie and Keith will be closed on December 25, 26 and 30 and on January 1, 2 and 6. The special collections and waste hotline will be closed from 3pm on Friday, December 21 and will reopen at 9pm on Thursday, January 3. Further information is available from the waste hotline on 01343 557045 or from waste@moray.gov.uk
Public conveniences All public conveniences will be closed on December 25 and 26 and on January 1 and 2.
Libraries The libraries at Buckie, Elgin, Forres, Keith and Lossiemouth and the local heritage centre in Elgin will close at 4pm on December 24. Tomintoul library will not open on the evening of December 24. All facilities will be closed on December 25, 26 and 31 and on January 1 and 2. Normal opening hours will apply on December 27, 28 and 29. Mobile libraries will not operate from December 25 to January 2 inclusive.
Museums The Falconer Museum in Forres will close at 2pm on December 24 and reopen at 10am on January 3.
Registrars All offices will be closed on December 25, 26 and 31 and on January 1 and 2. The Elgin office will be open on December 27 and 28 by appointment – call 01343 554600. Emergency registrations can be made throughout the festive period by calling 07580 956469 or 07891 721414.
Have a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from all at Moray Council
Use our website enquiry form at: www.1renewables/get-in-touch.php
INVESTORS WANTED JOIN OUR GROWING LIST OF INVESTORS IN SINGLE TURBINES 1 RENEWABLES LTD, a local wind-power company, seeks investors for renewables projects secured by the UK Government Feed-in Tariff. Our 1st portfolio is now almost fully funded by a combination of large and small investors, with 2nd and 3rd portfolios developing. Minimum amount 5k, no maximum amount. Excellent returns for 20 year FiT programme, or for shorter periods if preferred. Corporate and personal guarantees provided. CONTACT Ian on 07713 912473 ian@1renewables.com or alastair@1renewables.com
A NEW DIET AND FITNESS CLUB OW! CHRISTMAS Classes in Elgin - BOOK N GIVEAWAY est start ever! Get Christmas off to the fitt Loss™ Club today! and Join your local Kick Start Fat
£27
Incorporating the 4 Phases of Fatloss, weekly meetings and daily online support and workouts.
Join Kick Start Fat Loss for: Weekly weigh in and measurement tracker. Up to date nutritional talk and information - no calorie or points counting. The LATEST up to date fat loss and NEW ELGIN PRIMARY SCHOOL inch loss information. Bezack St, New Elgin, Monday - 7.30pm Brand new diet plan and detox. ELGIN SPORT & COMMUNITY CENTRE Trinity Rd, Elgin Wednesday - 9.30am 30 minute HIIT Workout for all abilities. For more information visit: www.kickstartfatloss.net
LT RE AL RE SU LTS O LE FR OM RE AL PE OP U U! YO E LIK JU ST
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ING Find us on facebook: ksfl.dawnharvey.elgin.forres TH ES E AM AZ RE SU LTT SS.. . For bookings or further information please call Dawn on 07825 087326 or check out our website at www.dawndhfitness.co.uk
Please feel free to call with any questions you have about Kick Start Fat Loss we are happy to help and can’t wait for you to get started and gain the results you really want. Kick Start Fat Loss is a national Diet and Fitness Club with classes all over the UK www.kickstartfatloss.net
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HEATING PLUMBING and HEA AT A TING GLOW-WORM ULTRACOM 2 35CXI COMBI BOILER
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Boiler Change-over 5 YEAR Supplied and Fitted AND WAS £2995 ONLY PARTS LABOUR W A ARRANT TY £1950 £1800
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