November 2011
ELGIN, LOSSIE & DISTRICT THE
NORTH’S
FAV O U R I T E
FREE
WEE
MAG’!
# / - - 5 . ) 4 9 s 3 4 9 , % s % !4 ) . ' / 5 4 s &! 3 ( ) / .
Embarrassed by your problem skin? Do you have unwanted hair, aged loose skin, red veins, skin tags, scars, tattoos, acne, wrinkles, pigmentation or other skin problems?
See our advert inside
UNIQUE Beauty
Tel: 07840 804207
Come in and see what’s new. NOW OPEN
The refurbishment of our Elgin kitchen and bedroom showroom is now complete. It’s quite a transformation and we hope that you will agree that it was well worth any inconvenience caused while it was closed. The finished result is stunning with classic and contemporary new styles, fantastic design ideas and amazing storage solutions. On show alongside our award winning Metris displays we are also showing our new Fusion range and our Classic Painted collection. All our kitchens and bedrooms are manufactured at our Highland factory with fantastic build quality which we have continued to update over the past 25 years. Our skilled manufacturers, designers and installers will continue to offer unrivalled quality and service and we look forward to welcoming you to our stunning new refurbished Elgin showroom.
ELGIN: 27 Tyock Ind Est 01343 545155 Also at: INVERNESS: 18 Carsegate Rd 01463 711548
www.ashleyann.co.uk
THE BIRNIE INN Fully Licensed Restaurant Open 7 Days Monday to Wednesday bookings only.
Function Room Outside Catering Service Licensed for Civil Weddings Ample Parking Saturday 17th December
BRING A PARTY TO A PARTY The perfect christmas night out!
Function Room
HOGMANAY DINNER DANCE Outside Catering
e W
ha
ve
h oste d ma
Book NOW to avoid disapointment!
eptions and danc g rec es n i d ed ny w
The Birnie Inn, Birnie, Elgin IV30 8SP Tel/Fax: 01343 862 951
%
!
# !
%
"
2)*51 :*// *48.33*) 685,.(&/ +&(./.7.*6 8// &1,* 2+ 6*59.(*6 +25 -286*-2/) 3*76 48.1* &50 &1.0&/6 ●
●
●
$*67 2&) 5*6-23 67&7* 255*6
●
●
●
●
● ●
●
" 7 "!
.1.&1 2&) 8**1 75**7 8//2)*1 2&)
!*/ &;
SpotLight Clubs and Societies
BIRNIE INDOOR BOWLING CLUB Come and play on our excellent carpets enjoy bowling and company, play Mon & Thurs 7pm, Tel: Charles Stewart 543307 BOWL 2000 JUNIOR BOWLING TEAM The club runs on a Saturday from 11am to about 12.30 - and is for under 18’s - they get taught by the Scotland coach to go and compete in competitions to win trophies etc. beginners are welcome BUCKIE CHORAL UNION Buckie Choral Union is a mixed choir. Rehearsals are held on Thursday nights 7:30-9:30pm in the Buckie North Church Hall, Buckie. For additional information (including map showing venue) check our web site at www.buckiechoral.org.uk DARNAWAY CURLING CLUB Small, 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 EDCSG DROP-IN CENTRE Mondays & Fridays 10am - 4pm starting 30th August in Victoria House, Victoria Crescent, Elgin (old Health Centre). Our volunteers will be there for anyone whose life has been affected by cancer to offer a friendly welcome, a listening ear, a cuppa & a chat, confidentiality & signposting. Tel: 543050 or www.edcsg.org
ELGIN AND DISTRICT PARKINSON'S SUPPORT GROUP Meets in the Resource Centre at 7.30pm, second Monday of the month, September to May, for information giving and sharing, support, fun, friendship and food! Contact Gillian Gibson (Secretary) tel: 541056 or visit www.parkinsons.org.uk ELGIN CITY COMMUNITY FOOTBALL Provide football activities for boys & girls of all ages, visit: www.elgincommunityfootball.co.uk, Tel: Robbie Hope 01343 551114 ELGIN AND DISTRICT CANCER SUPPORT GROUP DROP IN CENTRE We meet in the old Doctor's Surgery on Victoria Road, Elgin. We are open Tuesdays and Fridays 10am to 4pm. A listening ear, confidentiality, signposting and a cup of tea of coffee - or even just a chat are on offer. All welcome ELGIN WRITERS We meet on Wednesdays fortnightly in Elgin Library at 7.30 pm from September to May. Programme of events includes author talks, competitions, write on the night and workshops to help with writing. Open to all. Contact Margaret Woodward on 01309 675995 for dates and information. GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND Nairn & Moray Branch are looking for new branch volunteers. If interested, please
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. page 4 - November 2011
contact Anna Temple or Anna Roberts tel: 01309 694866
www.lossiecc.co.uk or email sallyskalke@tiscali.co.uk
MORAY TRIBAL BELLY DANCE Thursdays from 6.30pm - 7.30pm at Elgin Community Centre, Trinity Road, Elgin. Weekly tribal belly dance class suitable for all fitness levels, ages, shapes & sizes. For more info Tel: Mel on 07791 863 613, mel@moraytribaldance.co.uk or www.moraytribaldance.co.uk.
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
EAGLES BASKETBALL CLUB Developing Basketball in Moray. U12, U14, U16s in Buckie, Elgin & Forres, Adults mixed (Tuesdays 7.30-10pm Elgin Academy) & Adults Women (7-8pm Wednesdays Elgin Academy). If interested in any of the above contact Graham Stewart on 07972 178 790 or elgin.eagles@yahoo.com LADYBIRD DEVELOPMENTAL GROUP Caring for pre-school children with additional support needs. We would be delighted to hear from anyone interested in joining us to help secure our future, contact 814618 for details or visit our website at www.theladybirdgroup.co.uk 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
SAMPLE ADVERT RATES Box £38 Big Box £71 ¼ Page £129 ½ Page £244 Business Profile £416 Full Page £461 Enhanced Listings in What’s On pages from £41
tel: 01309 690063
MORAY ARTS CLUB Bringing 'The Arts' to the people of Moray. Contact Emma Cooper, art & film convener, on 07894 144021 or email emmaucooper@btinternet.com or visit www.morayartsclub.com NATIONAL CHILDBIRTH TRUST Antenatal classes and breastfeeding support. Regular meetings and outings in Forres and Elgin area. For information email nct_moray@yahoo.co.uk TYOCK GYMNASTICS CLUB Provides sport for the whole community at different levels appropriate to age and ability. Contact Pam Cantrill 543756 or 0778 971 4351 or email pammee@talktalk.net YOUNG PERSONS ADDICTION COUNSELLING Based in Keith, offering free confidential counselling to Moray youngsters aged 12-24 who have issues regarding addiction of any type or are concerned about someone else’s addiction. Those who think the service could benefit them can call Robert or Carol on 01542 886630
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 and District
The Editor Understandably, there is much emotion surrounding the RAF bases located at Lossiemouth and Kinloss. Whilst it is great news that RAF Lossie’ is staying open there is also some sadness about uncertainty surrounding the future of RAF Kinloss. It was Jean-Paul Sartre who coined the phrase - ‘Il faut cultiver son jardin’ which roughly translates as we must get on with the circumstances that we have. The residents and workers affected by these decisions are showing this in spades! PUBLISHER ...............David Nelmes SALES ......................Eilidh Conners ACCOUNTS ...................Lynn Wood LAYOUT ...............Megan Woodman DESIGN .................Alistair Davidson Clubs & Societies ............................4 Pastoral Letter.................................6 Tide Times.......................................6 Council News ................................10 Useful Numbers ............................12 Local Holidays...............................12 School Term Dates........................14 Church Details...............................14 What’s On ..............................19 - 25 Cinema Listings.............................21 Parliament Blog.............................38 Advertisers Index ..........................46
New Homes
Outdoor
Kylauren Showhome.................38
The Bird Man ............................36
Chef
Nature
Black Gold Beef Casserole.......26
Eyes to the Skies ......................40
Farming
Travel A Christmas Break ....................32
The Tattie Holidays ...................44
December Issue Deadlines Editorial - Friday 04/11/11 Advertising - Wednesday 09/11/11
'''
Garden Design & Construction FULL GARDEN DESIGN STONE/MASONRY © PAVING WATER FEATURES © TURFING PLANTING © DRIVEWAYS
## "!
Tel: 01381 620394 #
MOBILE
07917 274101 Email: iain@awlandscape.co.uk www.awlandscape.co.uk
$ !
$
"
&
%" ! ( # %
)# ' & '" !
"$ $ " #$ " $ " &
# )#$ "
$
SpotLight Pastoral letter and Tide Times
I have recently returned from touring parts of Europe clocking up some 3500 miles where directions and being on the right road were so important. It was essential to have the SAT-NAV and the maps beside us in order to keep us on the right road and heading in the right direction. It was good to know that even in the most obscure and difficult parts of the journey we had something to rely on, something that knew the way, and something that would take us to our destination. As I considered this I was reminded that we are all on a journey, the
LOW TIDE TIMES FOR LOSSIE IN NOVEMBER Walking on the beach should be possible 2 hours either side of these times AM PM 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
TU W TH F SA SU M
09.21 10.23 11.37 00.35 01.49 02.46 03.28
page 6 - November 2011
22.04 23.17 12.55 14.05 14.59 15.42
journey of life. It is a journey that is far from straight we encounter curves called failure, loops called confusion, speed bumps called friends, red lights called enemies caution lights called family. The journey takes us to obscure and difficult places and how important it is to have not something but someone to rely on, someone who knows the way and someone who will take us to our final destination safely. That someone is Jesus, He has promised to lead us and guide us and be with us our entire journey through we just need to learn to put our
8 TU 9 W 10 TH 11 F 12 SA 13 SU 14 M 15 TU 16 W 17 TH 18 F 19 SA
AM 04.05 04.37 05.09 05.40 06.11 06.43 07.17 07.53 08.34 09.22 10.22 11.37
tel: 01309 690063
PM 16.19 16.53 17.27 17.59 18.32 19.07 19.43 20.24 21.10 22.06 23.15
trust in Him. As someone has once said if you have a spare called determination, an engine called perseverance, insurance called faith and a driver called Jesus you will make it to your final destination safely. Jesus in John 14 verse 6 says; I am the way and the truth and the life. No-one comes to the Father except through me In whom or in what do you trust? Graham Sw anson Minister of Elgin Baptist
20 SU 21 M 22 TU 23 W 24 TH 25 F 26 SA 27 SU 28 M 29 TU 30 W
AM 00.30 01.39 02.39 03.33 04.23 05.10 05.56 06.41 07.25 08.10 08.57
PM 12.56 14.04 15.03 15.55 17.06 17.33 18.21 19.08 19.57 20.46 21.39
SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District
Best Western
01667 453108
:LQGVRU +RWHO 1DLUQ SIZZLING STEAK NIGHT £8.95 EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY
Christmas & New Year Carvery £9.95 per head Seatings at 12 noon, 2pm, 4pm and 6pm on both dates £5 deposit per person required on bookling places selling fast - book yours now!
Bring a Party to a Party Available Various Dates Throughout December £19.99 per person includes 4 Course Meal, Live Entertainment & Glass of Bubbly
Saturday & Sunday
12noon till 8pm
Carvery ONLY
£4.95 per head
Children under 12 eat for FREE. (Main meal only)
Monday to Friday
Lunch Special Two course lunch special menu ONLY
£4.95 per head
Dinner Special Three course dinner special menu ONLY
£9.95 per head
BEST WESTERN Windsor Hotel Albert Street, Nairn IV12 4HP 01667 453108 info@windsorhotelnairn.com
Buy two steaks and get a bottle of House Wine for £1.00
WHOM WILL YOU BLAME? Upon which of the following excuses are you YOU CANNOT SAY “I have not been warned,” for building your hopes of escaping Hell and reach- this publication containing God’s Word is your warning and it may be your last. Search the scriptures ing Heaven? and see if these things are so. If you are concerned about
Whom will you these matters it is God’s Spirit striving to show you your blame if like the danger, your guilt and your helplessness. There is for you today if you will have it. If you resist the rich man in Luke pardon Spirit, God says: “My Spirit shall not always strive with 16, you die, are man.” Genesis 6:3. buried and in Hell you lift up YOU CANNOT SAY “There is plenty of time to your eyes being settle this matter,” Listen to His solemn warning against delay, “because I have called, and ye refused; I in torments? have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded...Then shall they call upon Me, but I will not
YOU CANNOT BLAME GOD for God is “not answer.” Proverbs 1:24-28. willing that any should perish.” II Peter 3:9. He would have all men to be saved, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
YOU CANNOT BLAME CIRCUMSTANCES for there is nothing that can keep a sinner from Christ if he wants to come to Him for salvation. Jesus says “Ye will not come to Me, that ye might have life.” John 5:40.
YOU CANNOT BLAME THE LORD JESUS YOU MAY SAY “I do not believe in Hell.” But, my CHRIST friend, two minutes in Hell amid the weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth will change your mind. You will realize then, as every one in Hell realizes today, that the Bible is the Word of God, that you are a sinner, that Christ died for sinners, that you could have been YOU CANNOT SAY “I am not a sinner,” for God saved had you believed and accepted the Saviour of says: “As by one man sin entered into the world, and sinners as your own personal Saviour. There are no death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that unbelievers in Hell, but they believed—too late. all have sinned.” Romans 5:12 You may say you do not believe all this, but the mere fact that you do not believe it does not alter the facts. YOU CANNOT SAY for He said “I am come that they might have life.” John 10:10 “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37
“I am doing the best I can,” “I have turned over a new leaf ” “I have a good heart,” “God is too good to punish me in Hell.” “I have done nothing worthy of Hell.” God says all your “righteousnesses are as filthy rags” in His sight. Isaiah 64:6. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately (incurably) wicked.” Jeremiah 17:9. “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Proverbs 14:12.
YOU ARE LEFT WITHOUT EXCUSE “What wilt thou say when He shall punish thee?” Jeremiah 13:21 The responsibility where you spend Eternity – (Heaven or Hell) is yours and yours alone. Friend, listen! God is offering you mercy and pardon: God loves you, Christ died as a substitute for your sins on the cross. You have to receive Him for yourself; no-one can do it for you..you need to have repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus ChristBut do it now – or whom will you blame?
Jesus said … ‘’I am the Way, Way, the Truth Truth and the Lif Life; e; no man ccometh ometh un unto to the FFather ather but b byy me me,,’’ 1 John 14:6
“
”
Published by www.WordsbytheWayside.co.uk Registered Scottish Charity SCO41290
Legal – Ease Joint Ownership of Property.
Telephone:
01343 850 066 There are two ways of sharing legal title to property in Scotland both of which are drafted in to the Disposition (transfer of title deed) at point of purchase. The means of joint ownership have relevance in the event of a breakdown in the relationship between the title holders or where one dies. A ‘survivorship destination’ operates so that, in the unfortunate event, one of the title holder dies, title to the property passes automatically to the surviving title holder/s. No further legal work is required and when the property is sold proof that the title is vested in the sole survivor/s is proved by production of the Death Certificate of the deceased. This method of holding legal title can be appropirate for married couples, those in established relationships and/or where it is the main family home. The property does not fall in to the Estate of the deceased to be distributed under the provisions of their Will however the value of the deceased’s share of the property is taken in to account for tax purposes. The other means of holding legal title to property is ‘pro indiviso’ ie, in separate shares so that a deceased’s share will pass under the provisions of their Will (or under the rules of intestacy if no Will has been made). This method of joint ownership can be appropriate if the property is a business asset, title holders are unrelated or if there is an unequal contribution to the deposit or purchase price. The split does not necessarily have to be half and half but can be any percentage division. It may also be appropriate to enter in to a ‘side document’ in the form of a Minute of Agreement to deal with the practicalities on a sale ie, how the unequal contribution will be calculated and/or when a party can call for the property to be sold. If you are contemplating either purchasing or selling a property and you would like further advice and/or representation please call:Cherry Fairley, Solicitor & Notary Public of Fairleys Solicitors, 7 Mayne Road, Elgin IV30 1NY Tel: 01343 551126
Mobile:
07900 225 445 Taking clients from design & planning right through to completion...
www.excellenthomes.co.uk
LQIR#NW\SURSHUWLHV FR XN ‡ ZZZ NW\SURSHUWLHV FR XN
Tel: 07896 756 746 KTY Properties is a modern progressive property rental agency in Moray
om Properties 1,2,3 & 4 Bedro NOW AVAILABLE Tenant Find............................................ÂŁ299 Re-advertising / Tenant Find .......ÂŁ150 Highly Competitive rates: Introductory Property Management Fee of 8% for the first 3 months. FOR A FREE,
no obligation, rental appraisal and valuation of your property contact us:
Tel: 07896 756 746
7 Mayne Road Elgin IV30 1NY tel: 01343 551126 e-mail: property@moraylegal.co.uk
FREE INITIAL 1/2 HOUR CONSULTATION t &45"5& "(&/$: t $0/7&:"/$*/( t -&55*/( t t .035("(&4 t 8*--4 t &9&$653*&4 t t 108&34 0' "5503/&: t /05"3*4*/( %0$6.&/54 t
www.moraylegal.co.uk
For All your flooring needs ‡ /X[XU\ 'HVLJQ )ORRULQJ .DUQGHDQ $PWLFR 3RO\IORU ‡ &DUSHWV DQG &DUSHW 7LOHV ‡ 9LQ\OV 6DIHW\ )ORRULQJ ‡ 6ROLG :RRG /DPLQDWHV 5HVLGHQWLDO &RPPHUFLDO 7HO 0RE LQIR#PUGIORRULQJ FR XN ‡ ZZZ PUGIORRULQJ FR XN
SpotLight Community Council News
ExTRACTs FROM THE DRAFT MinuTEs OF THE MEETing OF 16TH OF AugusT 2011 OF THE LOssiEMOuTH COMMuniTy COunCiL Matters Arising. East Beach Bridge repairs. Jim stated that he had received a copy of the deeds from the Crown Estates referring to the ownership of the beach and the piles in the river. He also said that he was sending the information to Mr Alisdair McEachan Principal solicitor The Moray Council. Once we can prove ownership we can commence fund raising. Carolle mentioned that despite our efforts to use the Heritage Association constitution in applying for funds from the newly created Fisheries Fund the matter was still not resolved. Carolle reiterated the importance of the bridge and that we needed to pursue every window of opportunity. Cllr Alan Wright stated a one constitution and one status would be the best approach. Mike Mulholland stated that it was a large project. Bill suggested we attempt to resolve the problem with the Heritage Association. John smart asked when the piles were last inspected? Jim stated that last inspection could have been 1951. Bill said the matter was in hand with our bridge committee. Carolle stated that as the proof of ownership progressed we would report back. Beach buggys Ongoing Anna-Mary will be approaching a builder to cost an access ramp with a lower incline. Beach clean-up. Mike commented that the Rotary had another clean up organised in the very near future. Mary commented that there was a large build up of seaweed. Carolle requested more details of the clean up and suggested advertising locally for assistance. Correspondence Letter raising the stotfield Road speeding issue was raised during the Police brief. Letter received reference Moray Economic strategy Development Planned meetings scheduled for september. Our involvement would be on 19th sept between 1830-2130 in Lossiemouth High school new Hall. general discussion referred to other community council’s attitudes, however we all agreed it was a good idea. Cllr Alan Wright stated that they were only draft documents and
it was still subject to amendment. Carolle reiterated the fact that we would participate because of the importance of the topic. Any Other Competent Business Police report. PC Darren Ross on the latest well publicised problems encountered on the corner of stotfield Road and Kimberley street and investigations were on going and related mainly to the Beach Bar closing times The Police are attempting to organise the Taxis to pick up in Commerce street. John smart asked the question which age groups are concerned the reply was they were eighteens. Carolle commented that the matter is being actively addressed. Jim Dartnall raised the question that had been raised by a member of the public with regards the parking of caravans in the streets of Lossiemouth and pointed out that a caravan should be treated as a trailer and not a vehicle. The Moray Council roads engineer and the Police traffic department are handling the matter. Carolle introduced a letter from a resident in stotfield Road reference traffic speeding along the road both in and out of Lossiemouth. Cllr David stewart would raise the issue with the Traffic department to see if any calming methods could be employed. Carole commented that it would hopefully sort the problem. Cemetery Carolle had received an E-mail from Cllr Alan Wright via ian Bruce and she was happy with the explanation. Cllr David stewart stated that the offending growth was a lateral spreading type and matters will improve by Easter. Covesea cafe Request for a bus route to be reinstated along that route. Cllr David stewart stated that the area had recently had a sunday bus service removed. Carolle to check on progress. Tourist brochures Various brochures were produced from previous guides Mike mentioned the LBA one which is distributed by them and Bill mentioned the Harbour Booklet. Duncan Pocket stated that the harbour booklet
had been paid for by advertising and he agreed to look into expanding the booklet to include more Town information and even to hold tourist information in the Harbour Office. European Fisheries Fund Cllr Alan Wright stated that the Moray Council had agreed to match the £200,000 on offer to make the fund worth £400,000. The main areas to support would be the renewable industry and tourism in former fishing dependent areas. Carolle stated that we had come away from last week’s meeting with good vibes. Windfarms Cllr Alan Wright mentioned that the Moray Council was looking at how community windfarms were dealt with and what constituted a windfarm which is at present three generators of over half a megawatt production. Polling Places The council stated that in response to a question on stations that we were satisfied with the venues of the Town Hall and Community Centre. Commemorative Lights. The council decided to place this item on the agenda for the next meeting. Esplanade Cleaning Bill raised the point that with the recent changes the Esplanade was not kept as tidy as before and that it was an important element especially for tourism. Cllr Alan Wright stated that there should be some flexibility and that we should write to ian Brice reference the summer months and sundays. Carolle will write on the subject. Jet Skiing Bill mentioned Jet skis in the river with reference to wild life, conservation, tourism effect on other users of this natural facility. Duncan Pockett mentioned controlling the use of the slip by a badge issue was a possibility. Mike mentioned that the problem was no different than the issue of motorbikes. Carole mentioned the possibility of an exclusion zone. Ongoing. The next meeting will be held in the Seaview Suite, Town Hall on Tuesday 21 September 2011 at 7.30pm.
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 10 - November 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
tel: 01309 690063
SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District
< #3*(-&/-56 -1
"# *9
275*
7-/)5
246+&+*5 &44&1+*)
215*48&624-*5
:6*15-215
*164&/
*9 7-/)5
"*128&6-215
*&6-1+
!/70'-1+ %24. // $4&)*5 #733/-*)
7// 4(,-6*(674* #73*48-5-21 20*56-( &1) 200*4(-&/
$*/ 2'-/* 0&-/ 0-.*2)4-5(2// '6(211*(6 (20 999 0-.*2)4-5(2// (2 7. 4&1&4; #64**6 74+,*&) /+-1
SpotLight 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 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
Useful Numbers and Local Holidays
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 Laich Dental Practice ..................................(01343) 816316 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 2011/2012 St Andrews Day Christmas Day Holiday * Boxing Day Holiday * New Years Day Holiday* 2nd January Holiday* Lossiemouth Holiday ‡ Good Friday Elgin Holiday § May Day Bank Holiday Spring Bank Holiday Lossiemouth Holiday ‡ Queens Diamond Jubilee
page 12 - November 2011
Wed. 30th Nov. 2011 Mon. 26th Dec. 2011 Tues. 27th Dec. 2011 Mon. 2nd Jan. 2012 Tues. 3rd Jan. 2012 Mon. 2nd April 2012 Fri. 6th April 2012 Mon. 9th April 2012 Mon. 7th May 2012 Mon. 4th June 2012 Mon. 4th June 2012 Tues. 5th June 2012
Elgin Holiday § Mon. 25th June 2012 Summer Bank Holiday Mon. 6th Aug. 2012 Mon. 13th Aug. 2012 Lossiemouth Holiday ‡ Elgin Holiday § Mon. 3rd Sept. 2012 Lossiemouth Holiday ‡ Mon. 17th Sept. 2012 Elgin Holiday § Mon. 15th Oct. 2012 St Andrews Day Fri. 30th Nov. 2012 * substitute, as this holiday falls on a weekend or other bank holiday ‡ includes Hopeman & Burghead § includes Lhanbryde, Fochabers, Garmouth, Kingston, Mosstodloch, Spey Bay and Urquhart
tel: 01309 690063
SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District
from only
£750
CHP
And much mo more! re!
Hours Hou rs o off Business MON - FRI FRI 9am - 5pm
sales@wheelchaircare.co.uk wheelchaircare.co.uk 01309 676677 sales@
CHRISTIE
for all enquiries please contact
21 West Road, Greshop Industrial Estate, Forres IV36 2GW (Behind Lidl) Easy P Parking arking & Disa Disabled bled T Toilet oilet FFacilities acilities
Gordon Christie
£650
Commodes ffrom rom £70
HEATING & PLUMBING
from only
O verbed Tables Overbed Tables rom £47 ffrom Chai rs Chairs ffrom rom £240
Riser/Recliners
Electric Beds
on
01343 862832 07733 228702
gordchrist@btinternet.com
• All Types & Sizes Of Interior Blinds Made To Measure • Conservatory Blind Specialists
the Est. 1986
• Member of the British Blind & Shutter Association BBSA
spot
• Guaranteed After Sales Service
Elgin’s Premier Manufacturers Blind Manufacturers • Sales • Repairs • Alterations
͚͚R Realistic, Re ealistic, Hands H Hands-On On n Training͛ Training g ᅚ Welding Foundation Skills ᅚ Plant & Equipment Training ᅚ First Aid Courses (HSE Approved) ᅚ Elementary Food Hygiene(REHIS) ᅚ Vocational Qualifications ᅚ Bike Maintenance (Evenings) £200 ILA Funding on most courses available to eligible candidates For further information contact us on 01309 696932
N il & &M Neil MaryR Ross
or visit www.varis-traini training.co.uk
01343 549939 All types & sizes of interior blinds made to measure options available Child safety control
23 Castlehill Street • New Elgin Moray • IV30 6HB
Fax : 01343 555223 E-mail : blindspotinelgin@btinternet.com info@ forrestreeservices.com
TREE SURGERY AND FIREWOOD
Domestic and Commercial
Fully insured and qualified
www. forrestreeservices.com
01309 673233
01309 676807
SpotLight School Term Dates and Church Meetings for 2011/2012 (all dates inclusive) 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 Elgin High & Feeders Thurs. 9th Feb. 2012 Elgin Academy & Feeders Thurs. 9th Feb. 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 Alves Church 1st Sunday of each month at 11.30am. 01309 690931 Birnie - Pluscarden Church Sunday Service Pluscarden 10am ; Birnie 11.30am and Elgin High Church Sunday Service 11am. Contact Parish Asst. Paula Baker tel: 01542 832662 Burghead Church Every Sunday at 11.30am. Contact 01309 690931 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 City Church Every Sunday 10.30am at Elgin Community Centre Childrens church & creche available. Contact 543624 Elgin Community Church Sunday Morning Service 10.30am; Evening Fellowship & Youth Group at 6pm. Contact 54665 Hopeman Baptist Church meets every Sunday 11am & 6pm. Everyone welcome. Contact Rev. S.J. Macdonald 831175 or visit the website www.hopemanbaptist.org.uk Living Waters Fellowship, Bishopmill Hall, Bishopmill, Elgin. Family service Sundays at 11.30am with Tea, Coffee & lunch after service. Kids Church. Tel: 07730 256543 or visit www.livingwatersfellowship.co.uk
page 14 - November 2011
Lossie High & Feeders Friday 4th May 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 for 2012/2013 (all dates inclusive) Autumn Term Starts Tuesday 21st August 2012 Autumn Term Ends Friday 12th October 2012 Winter Term Starts Monday 29th October 2012 In-service Closure Monday 19th November 2012 In-service Closure Tuesday 20th November 2012 Winter Term Ends Fri. 21st December 2012
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 Gospel Hall meets every Sunday for Sunday Club at 9.30am, Gospel Meeting at 6.30pm. Further details 812987 or visit www.lossiemouthgospelhall.org.uk Lossiemouth United Free Church of Scotland meets Sunday 11am and 6pm, including Sunday School. Contact Rev. Alexander Ritchie 810262 www.ufcos.org.uk/lossie Moray Grace Fellowship Meets Sunday mornings 10.30am in The Warehouse Theatre, Lossie. Contact Vic Cameron for more details tel. 850142, email vic.cameron2803@btinternet.com or www.moraygrace.wordpress.com Scottish Episcopal Church Holy Trinity, Elgin Sunday Services - 8am Holy Communion; 11am Family Eucharist; 6.30pm Evensong, tel: 547505 St Andrews-Lhanbryd & Urquhart Parish Church, Morning Worship, including Young Church and Créche every Sunday at 11am. Evening Services on last Sunday of month at St Margaret's Hall, Urquhart at 7pm. Tel: Andrew Robertson 843765
tel: 01309 690063
St Gerardines High Church Lossiemouth, Family Worship Sunday 11am; Evening Service 6pm last Sunday in Month. Contact 813146 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. Contact the Church Office tel: 551501 or visit www.elginstgiles.org 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 Sylvester's Catholic Church, Elgin Vigil Mass Saturday 7pm; Sunday Mass 11.45am. Contact 542280 www.stsylvesters.net 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 If you are a member of a church not listed here please email us the details and we may print this in future issues.
SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District
EIGHT ACRES HOTEL & LEISURE CLUB, ELGIN
& LEISURE CLUB
CHRISTMAS PARTIES Available every Friday and Saturday during December.
3 course meal, Half Bottle of Wine and Disco for only £29.50 pp
TONE-UP
for the festive season 6 weeks leisure club membership for only
£59.00.
SUNDAY CARVERY
Beauty treatments therapies 12pm are also available in our Sonas S Every and Sunday - 2.30pm
EIGHT ACRES HOTEL &IV30 LEISURE CLUB Morriston Road, Elgin 6UL Morriston Road, Elgin IV30 6UL
Email: eightacres@crerarhotels.com Telephone:01343 01343 543 077 Email: eightacres@crerarhotels.com Telephone: 543077
WWW.CRERARHOTELS.COM WWW.CRERARHOTELS.COM
#
$ """
#
!
#
The House of
The House of Automata Automata experts Michael and Maria Start have opened an unusual new visitor destination in a beautiful steading at Kinloss. The visitor to the House of Automata is ‘greeted’ by manageress Nancy, a glamorous life sized lady robot who looks (& moves!) remarkably well for her 100 years. The Exhibition features interactive automata and kinetic art, which work at the push of a button. The intriguing Micro Museum is a true “Cabinet of Curiosities” that includes its very own tiny museum of automata. The Shop sells moving, musical and life like gifts with prices from less than a pound. The unusual range of cards and gifts have been chosen for their unique & entertaining qualities, a testament to the owners experience in theatre, fairground & magic. Michael & Maria are skilled restorers of old automata. Their customers range from museums to celebrities from around the world. Uniquely this process is on view to the public in the 'Visible Workshop'. Here it is possible to see the mechanisms and the work required to bring them to life. Visitors are welcome to browse & enjoy the exhibition without obligation. Its good fun for adults and educational for children!
AutomatA
S h o p ~ E x h i b i ti o n ~ W o rk s h o p
Automata are mechanical objects endowed with life The Inimitable
Humorous & Droll
MICRO
AUTOMATA
M USEUM
ARCAD E
A Tiny World
Push Button
~ The Microcosm ~
Kinetic Art
Visible Workshop See the restoration & conservation of automata
Curiosity rewarded
Gift Shop
Suitable for Lovers of Rational Amusement From Infancy To Elderly Tuesday to Saturday from 10 til 5
THE HOUSE OF AUTOMATA SEAPARK, KINLOSS, FORRES IV36 3TT Tel: 01309 691 212 WWW.THEHOUSEOFAUTOMATA.COM
Automaton advisors to ‘Hugo’, Scorcese’s new 3D family movie. In cinemas December 2011 ~ Google “Hugo Trailer” ~
! & " $ ! #$ %$ $ "$ " $ $ $
( "
$
$ "
'' #' & " & !" $ #$ $ *# # $ ## %$
$ ' % !! " $ $ % " $ "$ $ $ "$ $ $ '$ $
% )
"
! ! & # $ # %"
' % $ # " ( ! " $ $$ #' # $
#
"$ "$
'" $$
$# "
$ ($ $
# " $ "# $
$ (
$ ' % %"$ " #! $ ! $ $ %! $ " $ ' # ' # & %$ ! "$ ' % $ " ! $
$ # # #% "
%$%"
$
! # %$%" ( $ " ( # !" ## " $ $ %" ' % "" $# $#
%$ $
' (# # # $ & $(
" " $$ $$ "$ ' ( $ # ' # "$ ( #
( !" & #$ %" #! " $ # ! # $ "
% " # ( $
'
!! "
$ ## " ## # # !" & %# ( & " $ ' $ "
$ $ % %$
( ( #
($ ( #! " $$ #
#
#$" #%!! "$ " %# ## #%!! "$# $ !" # ! #$ !" # $ $ $' # $ # $ ## ## %$ ( $$
& !! " $ $
'" $$ %" $ " & $
) %$ $
#
(
' ' (# #$" & $ !$ $ $ $ # #$ %$ "$ #'
covesea cafe lity! hellfish our specia
Fresh S
We are open daily from 9am for Breakfasts, Lunches and Home Bakes
available from our Deli counter our own local caught Lobsters, Crabs and Langoustines and also our Coleslaw, Cullen Skink and Home Cooked Meals to order.
Closed Mondays ‘till Easter for well earned day of rest!" Taking orders for Christmas now ȱ ę ȱ Ĵ ǯ Located on the Lossie Hopeman Road,
just west of the Lighthouse
Tel: 01343 815454
NOVEMBER HAVE
REEL FUN at
F THE RISE O F THE TO PLANE ES AP (12A) 104 mins Wed 02 & Thu 03 Nov Scientist Will Rodman is experimenting with a drug he hopes will cure his father's Alzheimer's disease. When a group of captive chimps are exposed to the same drug, high speed evolution and a battle for freedom begins. Truly a rare beast an intelligent Hollywood blockbuster.
01463 234 234 www.eden-court.co.uk
THE FS SMUR
LER EN MIL R R A W HERE’S LIKE T RROW MO NO TO
(U) 104 mins Sat 05 & Sun 06 Nov
104 mins Tue 22nd Nov & Thu 08 Dec
On the run from evil wizard Gargamel, the Smurfs escape through a portal connecting their village with New York City. As they wreak havoc in the home of their bemused hosts, they search for a way back to their Smurfy kingdom before their deadliest enemy tracks them down.
Warren Miller’s ‘...Like There's No Tomorrow’ Join the world’s best skiers on peaks and steeps as far flung as India, Alaska, New Zealand and Chile all on the big screen.
BER th NOVEMCine AL 9th – 13 IV ma ST FE Court n Ede LM of FI tion S direc the er ES to strength. Und INVERN continues to go from strength
rness Film Festival d of the UK festivals. Now into its 9th year, the Inve ificant and critically acclaime e Winner The Girl Who become one of the most sign has IFF or, ding last year’s IFF Audienc Tayl l inclu Pau ies, er Programm massive mov ber, but expect the same tish premieres of dozens of Octo Scot until s and wrap UK r the unde tly seen are stric Previous years have the 9th Inverness Film Festival for e ramm prog . the of nted ils ’t be disappoi Kicked the Hornet’s Nest . Deta n Court’s cinemas and you won www.invernessfilmfestival.com you’ve become used to at Ede Sign up for news updates at high quality programming that
Please send us details of Your events log on to www.spotlighton.co.uk email megan@spotlighton.co.uk or call 01309 690063 What’s on listings deadline for december issue is friday 04/11/11
SpotLight Whats On
OCTOBER Rolling Events until 29 saturday, October
The T h e Dressing ressing Room R oom
exhibition ‘seashore’ by jessie white, elgin museum, tel: 543675 the big draw - moray arts club, art rocks! drawn on stone - sponteneous drawing activities popping up in spaces around elgin. no booking necessary. contact emma the art convener on 01343 548475
Selling g Beautiful Prom and Evening Dresses at affordable prices Stockist St ockist of Dynasty, y, Lou Lou and Jora Contact Cont act Dawn on
until 31 monday, October pictish throne exhibition at brodie castle, during normal opening hours, on loan from the national museum of scotland, included in tour of the castle, contact brodie castle for details tel: 0844 493 2156
% ! # 1 " -/.*-6*-4 &/4' +
$ 5%1.
#7 " -/.*-6*-4 &/4' + #" ! # /0 -/0 *-/. +
,'*(
"
!
,
! ! # /7 " -/.*-6*-4 &/4 + # 03 " -4 * -3*-2 &/4' + !8 ( ! ! #1 -/0 * -/. +
" " "'
$6
$5%1.
$6
$ 5%/3
,
$6
,
Des Horsfall’s Kuschty Rye - The Loft Venue Saturday 29th October 8pm
,
“This is a killer record….KILLER” – Pete Townshend (The Who).
Pass the Hat gig, suggested donation £5. Tel: 01343 850111 www.eastgrange.co.uk
,
entertainment venue features north of scotland select vs. south of wales select fighters, the ironworks, inverness, tel: 0871 789 4173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
)
# """' & ()*(. +.)),( ! ' '
SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District
150th anniversary of highland railway on 17th october 1861 from forres over dava towards perth, monday to saturday 10am to 5pm, falconer museum, tolbooth street, forres,tel: 01309 673701 or 01309 696261, ianlambyct@tiscali.co.uk, visit: www.moray.gov.uk/museums the moray society lecture ‘the archaeology and facts about culbin’ by cathy maciver, 7pm, elgin museum doug scott lecture "big wall" adventures, cost £15, £12 (conc) available now from the phoenix store, findhorn: 01309 690110 or online at www.nilupul.org universal hall, findhorn inverness abc boxing tornament, 7pm, £20, over 16’s,a night of top quality boxing in inverness’ top
,
% #
until 12 november
28 friday
#
$ 5%1.
$ )-
# /4 " -/0* -/.*-6 &/4' +
! ()*(. +.())(%
,
01343 555171 www.thedressingroomelgin.co.uk www.thedress ingroomelgin.co.uk
'
'
29 saturday des horsfall’s kuschty rye, 8pm, the loft venue, www.spotlighton.co.uk
November 2011 - page 19
OCTOBER 2011 continued kinloss, ‘pass-the-hat’ gig suggested £5 donation, tel: 850111, visit www.eastgrange.co.uk
!" + ) . &(( ) - # &$ .&+% & &&"
!%* % %
, %!%
# )) )
, %!% ) '$ *!# '$ * (!) ( !%!% * .&+( !" ( . &( -!%* ( , (.&% !% #+ !% # ! ) % +#*) ##
orienteering at hopeman, moravian orienteers are repeating the popular event that was staged during hopeman gala week as the 10th event of their saturday league and schools competition. 10.15am till 11.15am and full details are on www.moravianorienteering.org the hunted, 7pm, £6, £5, £4 u-16’s, universal hall, findhorn ten tonne dozer, a thousand lies & bittersuite 8pm, flanagan's bar, elgin, for more info visit http://www.facebook.com/TheSyndicate2008 harvest home dance enjoy a traditional experience with local people where all will be welcome to come and taste, bid, dance, live local scottish band ‘sandy ross and his band’ 7.30pm for 8pm - midnight, tickets £5 available: 01343 821072 at door ’bring a party to a party’, inchberry hall, orton, fochabers, nr elgin, elgin farmers market,10am-4 pm, plainstones, elgin children 1st october fair, 5pm to 8pm, £4, westfield house near elgin moray IV30 8XL tel: 01343 547308 email: veronica.maclean@yahoo.co.uk. scottish dance theatre, 7.30pm, £12.00 / reduced rates £10.00 / under 18s £8.00 / eden court friends £2.00 off, eden court, inverness, tel: 01463 234 234 or visit www. eden-court.co.uk
NOVEMBER 1 tuesday
Your local venue for films, shows, concerts and parties. Wide range of activities for all ages.
NOVEMBER EVENTS 18th Nov Rotory Club Fashion Show ..... 7.30pm 19th Nov Music Nairn Royal String Quartet...................................... 8pm 25th Nov Cinema Nairn ‘The Wildest Dream’ (2010) PG................ 7.30pm For further details Telephone 01667 453476, e-mail, info@nairncc.co.uk or check out our website at www.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk malts) 7.30 pm, tickets £10 each, the parish rooms st sylvester's church, institution road, elgin proceeds in aid of moray fresh start tel: 01343 552794. the nepal water project: an illustrated talk by members of rotary club of elgin, 7pm, elgin library help for heroes charity fashion show 7.30pm, £10.00 available from eden court box office eden court in the one touch theatre, inverness
3 thursday
whisky tasting and nosing (with an auction of single
Zumba Class MILTONDUFF HALL
£4 a class
Nairn Community & Arts Centre
2 wednesday
31 sunday - 1 november
NEW CLASS
NAIRN
*
Monday Nights 7-8pm Wednesday Nights 6.30 - 7.30pm
For more info contact Sue Taylor (Instructor) mobile: 07960 980 990
page 20 - November 2011
scottish dance theatre, 7.30pm, £10/£8/£6 u-16s, universal hall, findhorn, visit www.universalhall.co.uk the hunted by visible fictions theatre co, 7.30pm, tickets £8/£6, ogstoun theatre, gordonstoun, duffus visit www.neatshows.org.uk the china project, one touch theatre, 7.30pm, £12 / reduced rates £10, under 18s £5 eden court friends discount applies, eden court, inverness, tel: 01463 234 234 or visit www. eden-court.co.uk
3 thursday - 5 saturday the barber of seville: scottish opera, 7.15pm, £49.00 / £40.00 / £34.00 / £21.00, eden court, inverness, tel: 01463 234 234 or visit: www.eden-court.co.uk
tel: 01309 690063
SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District
Cinema Nairn
Visit cinemanairn.blogspot.com or contact Nairn Community Centre on 01667 453476 for details
Cinema Listings November 2011 Eden Court Theatre, Inverness Up to 7th November Adventure Film Festival 2011 Tinker,Tailor, Soldier, Spy (15) Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes (12a)
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
Highland Spiritual Cinema
Monthly screenings of uplifting and inspiring films that inform, enlighten and entertain. For further details please visit www.highlandspiritualcinema.net or telephone 01463 237452
Vue Cinema, Inverness From friday 28th Anonymous (12a) The Ideas of March (15) Frightfest: All Nighter (18) From Tuesday 1st November Black Country Communion: Live Over Europe (tbc) In Time (tbc) Tower Heist (tbc) Immortals 3D (tbc) From Thursday 17th Twiathlon (12a) The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1(12a) 50/50 (15) KidsAM Every Saturday & Sunday at 10.15am Tickets £1.25 / VIP Tickets £2.75 Senior Screenings Every Tuesday afternoon Tickets £3.05 / VIP Tickets £4.55 Includes tea/coffee & biscuits
Visit www.myvue.com for details
Portessie Public Hall
Regular films including Saturday matinees. For further details email portessiepublichall@hotmail.co.uk
Universal Hall, Findhorn
Showing films through the year Visit www.findhorn.org/uhall or call 01309 691170 for details. page 21 - November 2011
tel: 01309 690063
SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District
NOVEMBER 2011 continued
Elgin Winter Festival Christmas Light Switch on and Light Show Saturday 26th November 2011 Lots to do and see at this year’s Christmas Light Switch on event. On the Plainstones - Visit the Special Xmas market from 10am for that unique Christmas Gift. Range of musical entertainment starting at 12noon with Fortunate Sun, Nae Reel, Elgin and District Pipe Band, Jack n Jill Nursery and Wots Next. Dance demonstrations from Moray Dance with many more to be confirmed….. At 2pm - See the spectacular Cairngorm Reindeer parade with Santa led by Elgin and District Pipe Band and spend time with the Reindeer throughout the afternoon and learn all about these amazing animals. This year’s Christmas lights will be switched on by 8 year olds Cheyenne Duthie from East End Primary School Also why not visit Elgin Library - Festive Fun day and Christmas Craft Fayre from 10am – 4pm. For more information go to www.facebook.com/elginbid/www.elginbid.co.uk
chaplaincy, childcare facility is available and tea, coffee and a chat are available after the service, held at the chapel in raigmore hospital the hunted, 11am & 3pm, £9 / reduced rates £8/ under 18s £6 / family ticket £24 / eden court friends discount applies, eden court, inverness, tel: 01463 234 234 or visit: www.eden-court.co.uk
6 sunday illegal eagles: the classic tour, 8pm, £21/ £19/ £17.50, eden court, inverness, tel: 01463 234 234 or visit: www. eden-court.co.uk the jani lang coronets, 7.30pm, £12 / reduced rates £10 / eden court friends discount applies, eden court, inverness, tel: 01463 234 234 or visit: www. eden-court.co.uk
8 tuesday talk by christopher brookmyre, author of “where the bodies are buried”,7pm, elgin library
11 friday exhibition of paintings by andrew flett followed by entertainment at the warehouse theatre in lossiemouth, in aid of r.n.l.i, 7pm for 7:30 start, £10 – available from anne flett, tel: 01343 835718.
12 saturday -13 sunday For ongoing developments visit: www.elginbid.co.uk/www.facebook.com/elginbid.
4 friday the hunted, 7pm, £9 / reduced rates £8 / under 18s £6 / family ticket £24 / eden court friends discount applies, eden court, inverness, tel: 01463 234 234 or visit: www. eden-court.co.uk a night with milly herd & friends, 6.15 for 7.00pm, tickets £5 from buckleys, lossiemouth, sound & vision, elgin, or phone 01343 814004, the warehouse, lossiemouth
elgin model fair open 10.00 am to 5.00 pm both days, elgin town hall, adults £4.50, children £3.50, family (2+2) £10.00, children under 5 free, info: modelfair@elginmodelrailwayclub.co.uk. elgin writers - crime writing weekend elgin library, all day, numbers limited so please apply for a free ticket, tel: 01309 675995
5 saturday holy trinity church elgin coffee morning, 10am12pm, £2 per head. a rainbow fair, for mind, body and spirit, 10am 4pm, fochabers institute, fochabers, free entry, tel: 01343 820352 annual baby loss remembrance service, held by inverness sands and raigmore hospital
PARTY LITE CANDLES & ACCESSORIES Hosting a PartyLite Show is fun and rewarding you can select your choice of product at 25% discount
contact Kayleigh on 07788208272 / kayannmarie55@sky.com page 22 - November 2011
12 saturday e.d.c.s.g christmas bizarre - stalls, tombola ect. 10am -12noon, lossiemouth town hall. culbin singers fortieth anniversary concert, 7:30pm, adult £10, concession £8, child £5, st laurence church, forres tickets from members; gazette office, forres; r&r urquhart solicitors in forres, nairn and inverness; sound and vision, elgin; bookmark, grantown-on-spey. orienteering at buckie the first orienteering event ever to be held in buckie moravian orienteers head for the high school where they are staging the 11th
tel: 01309 690063
SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District
1st. westfield house, elgin, tel: 01343 547308
19 saturday - # "% ( +% *"&% )+"* , "# # &( ## & )"&%) "(*! .) %%", () (" ) " (*" ) * % " !*) +% ( # ) * ("% . '+ )* &( $&( "% & ## % ( &% & % (
/)
event in the moray saturday league and schools competiton. no previous experience necessary everyone welcome. 10.15am-11.15am and full details are on www.moravianorienteering.org skerryvore, 8pm, £12/£10 concessions, universal hall, findhorn visit www.universalhall.co.uk
the moray piano competition, elgin town hall Qualifying Rounds (QR) 9.30 am Cathedral Class 2.45pm Speyside Class. admission free, programme £3. www.moray-piano-competition.co.uk western front association - members’ forum, 2.30pm, the gallery, elgin library, contact derek bird tel: 870562, email chairman.wfasnb@virgin.net or visit www.wfascotlandnorth.org.uk royal string quartet playing gorecki, szymanowski, and chopin (with alessandro taverna on piano) 8pm, tickets £18, members £14, students £2, nairn community and arts centre, tel: 455701 tashi lhunpo monks, 8pm, £10/£8/ £6 u-16s concessions, universal hall, findhorn
The Elgin Flower Club Christmas Demonstration ‘A Christmas for Everyone’ Mrs Marilyn Bevan, Helensburgh
16 wednesday
Thursday 24th November 7.30pm Elgin Town Hall
schooglenifty and plan b, 7.30pm, £12/£10/£8 u-16s concession, universal hall, findhorn, visit www.universalhall.co.uk
THE MORAY PIANO COMPETITION 2011 ELGIN TOWN HALL
Saturday 19th November - Qualifying Rounds (QR) 9.30am Cathedral Class 2.45pm Speyside Class ADMISSION FREE Programme £3 Sunday 20th November 10.00am Spynie Class (QR) 2.30pm - Finals Tickets at door Adult – £8 (no concession) Children under 18 FREE
Adjudicators: Philip Fowke and Anna Markland Outstanding young pianists from home and abroad compete for a share of prize money totalling £4,000 www.moray-piano-competition.co.uk The Moray Piano Festival Trust is a registered Scottish Charity No. SC032432
17 thursday vintage trouble, 7.30pm, £9, original soul and rhythm & blues, under 16s must be accompanied by a responsible adult, tel: 0871 789 4173 or visit: www.ironworksvenue.com
Sales table & raffle. Tickets £8 including refreshments. Available from 550257 and Room to Bloom, South Street, Elgin
19 saturday to 20 sunday christmas craft food fair, 10am-4pm, bishops palace, eden court, inverness, supporting CHAS
20 sunday the moray piano competition, elgin town hall 10.00am Spynie Class (QR), 2.30pm - finals tickets at the door, adults: £8 (no concession) children under 18 free. www.moray-piano-competition.co.uk lhanbryde community centre christmas craft fair, 1pm- 4pm, over 30 stalls, santa's grotto, refreshments, bacon rolls, soup, festive mince pies tel: 01343 843025
24 thursday elgin flower club christmas demonstration, 7.30pm elgin town hall, sales table & raffle. Tickets £8 including refreshments. Available from 550257 and Room to Bloom, South Street, Elgin.
18 friday a history of moray in 100 objects with moray museums service, 7pm, elgin library
18 friday - 27 sunday the nomads tent, 10am-5pm, a selling exhibition of tribal rugs and crafts, soup and rolls, coffee or tea available. proceeds for refreshments go to children page 23 - November 2011
tel: 01309 690063
Tommy Reilly and Katie Sutherland (Pearl and the Puppets) Friday 25th November 8pm Tickets £8 Tel: 01343 850111 www.eastgrange.co.uk
SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District
NOVEMBER 2011 continued
DECEMBER 2011 in breif
25 friday the moray society lecture ‘climate change in moray : should we care?’ by dr garry campbell, doors 7pm, elgin museum dark matter, 7.15pm - 8.15pm, £6/£5/£4 u-16s concessions, universal hall, findhorn visit www. universalhall.co.uk tommy reilly and katie sutherland (pearl and the puppets, 8pm, £8, the loft, near forres, tel: 01343 85011, www.eastgrange.co.uk
25 friday - 27 sunday brodie castle victorian christmas craft fair, 10.00 am - 4.00 pm admission £3, children free visit: www.exclusivelyhighlands.co.uk
Keith James in Concert - The Loft Venue Saturday 26th November 8pm ‘certainly the UK’s most celebrated and evocative interpreter of golden music’ The Guardian Tel: 01343 850111 www.eastgrange.co.uk
26 saturday elgin high church christmas bazaar, 10am till 12 noon, In the church hall, all stalls welcome. goldie at the ironworks,10pm, over 18s, £8, tel: 0871 789 4173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com speymouth church coffee morning, 10.00am 11.30am, in aid of church funds, usual stalls, all welcome, speymouth hall, mosstodloch, festive fun day and christmas craft fayre, 10pm 4pm, elgin library keith james in concert, 8pm, the loft near forres, tel: 01343 85011, www.eastgrange.co.uk
HOW THE “WHAT’S ON” WORKS all line listings are free send us details of any events coming up to megan@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 a paid for enhanced listing (white box) the cost is from £41 plus vat. Call 01309 690063 for details. Deadline for December Issue is Friday 04/11/11 page 24 - November 2011
tel: 01309 690063
1 thursday the undertones, 7.30pm, £16 under 16s must be accompanied by an adult, ironworks, inverness tel: 0871 789 4173 or visit: www.ironworksvenue.com 2 friday wolfstone : celtic rock band, 7:30pm, st christopher’s chapel, gordonstoun school, nr elgin, £15/£7.50, visit www.thegcs.org.uk for more details, tickets available from www.thebooth.co.uk woolfstone celtic rock band, 7.30pm, £15/£7.50, st christopher’s chapel, gordonstoun school, nr elgin visit: www.thegcs.org.uk for more details, tickets available from www.thebooth.co.uk east beach bridge of lossiemouth, heritage discover the fascinating history of lossiemouth's east beach bridge at this illustrated talk by jim dartnall. 8 pm - 9 pm, lossiemouth library, town hall lane, lossiemouth artinkulate charity thistle auction, 7pm, around 35 mainly local artists are creating their own interpretation of the iconic thistle image, tel: 01542 842888 or email: info@artinkulate.co.uk, or via the facebook page artinkulate’s charity thistle challenge. 3 saturday quiz night in lhanbryde community centre with raffle, 7pm for 7.30pm, £2 per person, teams of up to four, BYOB and nibbles, registered as a charity in scotland : sc029433 holy trinity church christmas coffee morning, 10am-12, £2 per head jo caulfield “cruel to be kind”, 8pm, £12/ £10 concessions, universal hall, findhorn, visit www.universalhall.co.uk bring a christmas party to a party, 3 course festive meal entertainment neil diamond & billy joel tribute act, followed by disco, £30.00 per person, mosset tavern, forres 4 sunday tasty ness new interactive food exhibition, 11am-4pm entrance is £3 with children under 12 free, there will be cookery demonstrations, mini masterclasses, high quality gifts & food items to buy for christmas, as well as samples to taste and dining out offers, ironworks venue in Inverness. treebadour theatre, 3pm, treebadour puppet theatre, kasperle show "crocodile prepares for christmas" £4 per person, for all of the family, rose abbey school, kinloss. for info visit www.treebadour.co.uk or call elisabeth julian 01309 691225 8 thursday greyfriars club tea and competitions, 6.30pm, £1, elgin town hall, tel: 01343 544487 9 friday music for a while, 7.30pm, an evening of festive music and song, enjoy christmas music in the victorian drawing room, brodie castle, tel 0844 493 2156 or visit www.nts.org.uk 10 saturday culbin singers christmas concert 7pm. adult £12, concession £10, child (under 12) £5, st laurence church, forres tickets from members; gazette office, forres; r&r urquhart
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
solicitors in forres, nairn and inverness; sound and vision, elgin; bookmark, grantown-on-spey. erol alkan, ÂŁ15.00, first 100 tickets will be ÂŁ12, 10.30pm, ironworks venue in inverness. tel: 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com bring a christmas party to a party, 3 course festive meal entertainment comedian & meatloaf tribute act, followed by disco, ÂŁ30:00 per person, mosset tavern, forres 12 monday elgin and district cancer support group christmas bizarre, 10am -12noon stalls, tombola, lossiemouth town hall 14 wednesday - 23 friday christmas lunches, 12 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3pm, 2 or 3 course festive menu served in the grand surroundings of the library, why not make up a table? booking essential, brodie castle, tel 0844 493 2156 visit www.nts.org.uk 17 saturday orienteering at lossiemouth moravian orienteers look forward to welcoming you to oakenhead forest for the last event in the moray saturday league and schools competiton. no previous experience necessary - everyone welcome. 10:15am-11:15am and full details are on www.moravianorienteering.org treebadour theatre 3pm, treebadour puppet theatre, kasper le show,"crocodile prepares for christmas" ÂŁ4 per person, for all of the family, james milne institute, findhorn at the pier, visit www.treebadour.co.uk or call elisabeth julian on:01309 691225 27 friday elgin and district cancer support group christmas bizarre, 10am -12noon stalls, tombola etc, lossiemouth town hall
Celebrate Christmas with
i la s h T h e a tr e &))! $&+* &% '$ # ))
( $
# )) )
# !% &$$+%!*, %*( + ) ,) * ($ *!$ &$$+%!*, %*( '$ '$ ,) * ($ *!$ '$ '$ '$ '$ '$ )" *( ) (&$ &( $&( !% & &( *& &&" # )) &%* * +( % &% ! # ) &*$ !# & +"
Dress to impress Episode
15% OFF selected Designer Frames
*
Seeing is believing! 1 St Leonardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road, Forres Tel: 01309 673801 www.mcclintock-opticians.co.uk *Offer ends 30.11.12
32 years of exceptional eyecare
All our chocolate is free from additives and preservatives, and naturally gluten free! Open late every Thursday and open every Sunday in December in the run up to Christmas 15 High Street, Elgin, IV30 1EQ Tel: 01343 547700 www.facebook.com/OliveTreeChocolate
1SPCMFNT JO 4DIPPM /FFE JU GPS #VTJOFTT 0S KVTU GPS 'VO
-FBSO (FSNBO GSPN B /BUJWF 4QFBLFS
4JNPOF )FSSOLJOE
FNBJM IFSSOLJOE!HNY EF
recipe
Chef’s Confidential As the nights have drawn in, and winter has arrived, what better than a delicious beef casserole, served with creamy mash potato and greens. This recipe uses Black Gold beer from the Cairngorm Brewery at Aviemore. It is a rich dark stout, that has a smooth sweetness, a perfect compliment for the beef. Quality beef is really important and at Knockomie all our beef comes from MacBeth's of Forres. It is locally produced on their farm at Dallas, and hung for a minimum of 21 days, a true quality product. Serves 4-6 people Ingredients
Black Gold Beef Casserole 1kg Diced Stewing Steak 375grm Onions, quartered and finely sliced 500ml Bottle Cairngorm Black Gold Beer (or any stout) 1 heaped tablespoons Plain Flour 150grm Baby Button Mushrooms 1 sprig of thyme 1 ½ Tablespoons Sunflower or Vegetable oil Salt and Pepper to season Preheat the oven to 150°C 1.Heat the oil in an heat proof / oven proof dish with a lid. Add the diced beef a little at a time to brown. As the beef browns remove it to a plate with a slotted spoon, and repeat until all the beef is browned. 2.Keeping the heat high, place the sliced onion in to the pan and stir until it has softened slightly. 3.Reduce the heat and return the beef and any juices to the pan with the onions, add the plain flour and stir thoroughly to bind it to the meat and onions. 4.Gradually add the beer stirring constantly and let it simmer for a few minutes. 5.Add the sprig of thyme and mushrooms and some salt and pepper to season. 6.Cover with the lid and place in the oven for 1 ¾ to 2 hours until the beef is tender. When ready serve with creamy mash potato and green vegetables. Penny Ellis, Owner Knockomie Hotel, Forres tel: 01309 673146
26
as 5 .9 tm ris nu £16 Ch Me es rs ou 3C
Fall into Winter
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 all for only £40 per couple.
% ,$'# $%$'# $'#%! %0
+ $ + -,,!*$'# % , ((" 0+,!&+
!'!* % )*()!*,0 & $',!' ' ! +!*.$ !
2 courses incl Bottle Of Wine for only per couple (max table of 6) £
40
Must be pre-booked and quote ‘Fall into Winter’ when booking.
Knockomie Hotel is licensed to hold Civil Weddings
Our highly personal approach will create a perfect and memorable day, designed to match your specific requirements for you and up to 40 guests.
/! !& $%
2 Course Lunch throughout Nov. for only £8.95 pp (max table of 6)
Mhairi Donald
knockomie
B OOKKEEPING & PAYROLL SERVICES TEL :
07872 012 468 mdbookkeeping@btinternet.com
EMAIL :
HOTEL
Licensed Practice No: 11115
Tel: 01309 673146 Grantown Road, Forres ZZZ NQRFNRPLH FR XN VWD\#NQRFNRPLH FR XN
Love L ove the the tthought hought o off a
ootstool FREE FREE FFootstool
WITH THE CLARA CLARA FABRIC FABRIC 3 AND 2 SE SEATER ATER SSOFAS OFAS
CLARA 3 + 2 Seater Fabric Sofas WAS £1678
I’I’M M
FREE
SAVE £890
£788
NOW
Cars Carsegate egate Rd
A8622 A86
PPLUS LUS A FFREE REE R REID EID T TAPE APE M MEASURE E ASURE just for for visiting the st store! ore!
Ca rse ga te Rd N
te Rd S ate at Carsseegga
Terms Terms and conditions conditions apply. apply. See instore instore for for details. Off subject to Offers aree subject to availability. availability.
Love the thought of
Dicksons Dicks ons Car C ompany Company
Duncans Video Repair Servic Servicee
Cla chn aha rry
Come home to Reid C Carsegate a r s e g at e R Road oad South, South, Inverness I n ve r n e s s
Call 01463 7714 14 7715 15 Shop online www.reidfurniture.com www.reidfurniture.com
Gle ndo e Te rrac e
Valid Valid 24th October October to to 7th No November vember 2011. Inverness Inverness store store only on production production of this advertisement. advertisement.
Cattanach C attanach Car C ar Company C ompany
Cars Carsegate egate Rd
Rd
A8622 A86
Mansion House Christmas at the
HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB
Christmas Party Nights & Dining Our ever popular "Bring a Party to a Party" nights are available on Saturday 3rd December, Friday 9th December, Saturday 10th December, Friday 16th December and Saturday 17th December with a 3 course festive menu and table novelties, then dance the night away with a popular local band. Priced at only
ÂŁ30.50 per person
Alternatively enjoy a Pre-Christmas Lunch or Dinner in the elegant surroundings of our restaurant. We have the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Still Roomâ&#x20AC;? for private dining which can accommodate up to 30 people.
Reduced accommodation rates are available so why not make a break out of it and stay the night. You won't have to worry about driving or going out in the cold!
)RU 3DUW\ 1LJKW DQG WDEOH UHVHUYDWLRQV SOHDVH FRQWDFW
Mansion House HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB
7KH +DXJK (OJLQ 0RUD\ ,9 $: 7HO UHFHSWLRQ#PKHOJLQ FR XN Â&#x2021; ZZZ PDQVLRQKRXVHKRWHO FR XN
tel: 01343 850111
.co.uk
FOOD ACTIVITIES LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Christmas Parties
2 0 11
70’s theme ..& ju st ab out 70 ’s prices!!
Friday 2nd, 9th & 16th December £25 per person 10% discount to groups of 12 or more Bottle of bubbly for best Retro Outfit. It's not just about the 70's... it's about having a disco like it used to be!!!!
er Satur p u day S
(genuine smooch to end the evening... complete with the lights going on half way thro'!)
FRE BEER AE N WIN D *Conditio E
For the seventh year running!!!
The Loft Bistro & Venue presents its ‘Bring
A Party to a Party Night’
Saturday 3rd, 10th & 17th December
ns Apply
This event complies with the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005
clusive Xmas Part n I l y Al
*Every thing bu t Sp Normal irits included with Dinner Bar price s after Dinner
ACTION PA RT Y
DIFFERENT.. THING . HAV OME E FU S N-H O D AVE A 2 ACTIVITIES PLUS ER! LAUGH - HAVE DINN 3 COURSES FROM A PROPER MENU ONLY £
55
Scotland’s Longest Zip Wire! Age, Height & Weight restrictions apply
echo golf laser tag
The Loft Bistro & Venue, East Grange Farm, Kinloss IV36 2UD
travel
Dreaming of... ...a Christmas Break
There are few things more magical than the atmosphere of the traditional Christmas market. Every year more and more visitors are enjoying the unique festive charms of Christmas markets in German cities such as Cologne, Nuremberg and Dresden as well as in other European cities such as Vienna, Bruges and Prague. The twinkling scenes of festively decorated plazas with their enchanting market stalls and glittering Christmas trees set against the backdrop of beautiful historic buildings, let visitors relive the magic of yesteryear. The smell of hot mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the air. Nurembergâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christkindlmarkt is one of the biggest and most famous of the Christmas markets. Nearly 200 festive wooden stalls adorn the Old Town square from the beginning of Advent. Over 2 million visitors from all round the world enjoy the candlelit stalls in this beautiful Bavarian city. There are 21 Christmas markets in Vienna. The Advent Market is in front of the fabulous Schonbrunn Palace where visitors can buy traditional tree decorations, handmade gifts and a large selection of culinary delicacies. There is also the Christmas Village in Maria Theresien Platz with 50 stands with a wide range of goods and a choir is often to be heard. In Prague the markets takes place in Wenceslas Square and in Old Town Square. Huge Christmas Trees sparkle, 150 wooden stalls many selling traditional crafts and the sound of Christmas concerts taking place all add to the magical atmosphere. Whether you want to travel by plane or coach, independently or in a group there are lots of options starting in Moray. If you are looking for an extra special treat for children or grandchildren what could be more exciting than a trip to Lapland. This really is a once in a lifetime experience â&#x20AC;&#x201C; seeing Father Christmas in his secret hideaway deep in the pine trees. It is the stuff that dreams are made of and you can see it on the faces of young and old alike. A trip on a skidoo or in a sleigh pulled by reindeer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the excitement can all be fitted into a day trip â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a long and busy day but it is possible! Alternatively a few days provides a more relaxed atmosphere giving you more time to try out the winter activities.
Information kindly supplied by
32
2-6 South Street, Elgin 01343 548844 Â&#x2021; +LJK Street, FRUUHV
www.beavtrav.com DIRECT DEPARTURES FROM
M.O.T SERVICING DIAGNOSTICS
McANDIE
GARAGE SERVICES SERVICING - including new vehicles
(will not invalidate manufacturers warranty)
DIAGNOSTICS - Using the latest Bosch equipment M.O.T M.O.T preparation FRE EXHAUSTS AND BATTERIES collect E TYRES - Supplied and Fitted and de ion (taking winter tyre orders now)
Taking customer care to a higher level!
li servicveery
Shore Street, Lossiemouth Tel: 01343 815977
FROM INVERNESS
Dubrovnik Riviera 4th June HB ..........from £639pp Portugal 11th June and 3rd Sept HB from £669pp New regular flights to Amsterdam for worldwide connections.
FROM ABERDEEN Lake Garda 27th May B&B ..................from £519pp Sorrento 16th June B&B .....................from £589pp
CHRISTMAS MARKETS (from 25th November right through December) MUNICH From Edinburgh, 2nts, 3*......from £230pp BERLIN From Glasgow, 2nts, 3* ..........from £220pp New regular flights to Frankfurt for worldwide connections.
ELGIN 01343 548844
beaver Travel
FORRES 01309 672203
Beaver Travel, 2-6 South Street, Elgin Also at: 78 High Street, Forres Beaver Travel is also a ticket agent for Eden Court Theatre, Inverness - No booking fee.
$#
Divine Gifts !
# & "# &" !" # $ !#" #!
#!
&
#" & '
# "# #$! "
#
"
!
! % " "
#
" " "
*
Come along to our late-night openings in November and treat yourself to a delicious High-Tea for only £7.50 in our cosy coffee-shop and we’ll give you 10% OFF every purchase you make at M&C. Simply dine between 5-7pm on any Thursday in November to qualify. Make a night of it - we’re open until 8pm - bon appetit. Check-out our website for more details: www.mackenzie-cruickshank.com
Bringing life to your home and garden...
M&C
MACKENZIE & CRUICKSHANK
1 West Road, Forres IV36 2GW 01309 696940
* Offer applies to Thursday evenings 5pm to 8pm during November 2011 only
Community Solar Panel Project Community Project better time a n e e b r e v e n as â&#x20AC;&#x153;There htall renewable technologiesâ&#x20AC;? to ins
up to 40% discount
up to 20% discount
on Solar Thermal
on Solar PV
We will carry out a FREE independent survey of your property. This can be for private housing, social housing, businesses or public buildings.
call 01542 880200 solar@reapscotland.org.uk www.reapscotland.org.uk REAP is a company limited by guarantee (No: 316989) and a registered charity (No: SC037988)
Get your order placed before the The Feed-In-Tariff (FIT) is reduced! (FIT) will be reduced by 8% in 2012 and 8% year on year thereafter.
outdoor
7KH %LUG 0DQ INVADERS FROM THE NORTH As the nights draw in, the temperatures drop and the summer migrants are beginning to become a distant memory as a whole new batch of birds arrive on our shores, fleeing the harsh weather of their High Arctic and Scandinavian breeding grounds. Two of these species have a tendency to arrive together, sometimes in large mixed flocks. Fieldfares and Redwings are both annual winter visitors to the UK. Choose a calm clear night in November, wrap up warmly, stand outside in the garden and listen. With luck you will hear the thin, very high pitched â&#x20AC;&#x153;tseeepâ&#x20AC;? calls of migrating Redwings. You may risk questioning from your neighbours but explain what you are doing and they may even join in!
Fieldfare
Any open green space at this time of year is worth checking - play parks, football pitches, allotments etc. Redwings move over the grass in loose flocks searching for insects and
Redwing
worms. Slimmer than Song Thrushes, what you will first notice is the long cream eyebrow (called the supercilium) and similar cream moustache. Look closer on the flanks just below the wing and you will see a rusty red patch - hence the name Redwing. The Fieldfare is a large robust bird, standing tall and alert. It sports a Grey head and rump separated with a warm chocolate brown back and a black tail. It can be seen feeding in the same locations as the Redwing but usually prefers the more open country, so it is worth checking out stubble or sheep fields. Both species are also partial to winter berries and can often be seen gorging themselves on Rowan treeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, replacing the fat reserves they have used during their migration. Next month we will look at two more unusual winter visitors: Waxwings and King Eider. So until then, Good Birding!
Information kindly supplied by Birding Ecosse, offering Birdwatching for beginners workshops.
36
s WWW BIRDINGECOSSE COM s BIRDINGECOSSE HOTMAIL CO UK
FFor or a unique lunch or evening meal full dining experience in your own home A full produced by a professional chef. Prices from ÂŁ20 per person - see our website for our fulll range - www.private-dining.org.uk ful Christmas and New YYear ear dates available, contact us at calll 07783 882057 info@private-dining.org.uk or cal
Mark Valentine JOINERY SERVICES Loft Conversions %XTENSIONS s .EW "UILDS 5PGRADES s 2ENOVATIONS "EDROOMS s "ATHROOMS &ITTED +ITCHENS IN FACT ALL TYPES *OINERY WORK UNDERTAKEN &OR A &2%% %STIMATE PLEASE CALL Mark on s
Ryburn Office Whenever weÇŻre needed
Book-keeping Final Accounts Preparation Documentation Credit Control Managed Payroll Services Proof reading Admin systems Bulk Mailings
single- or double-entry special rates for charities experts in Word & Excel we love the job you hate professional & secure it will make a difference managed efficiency hours to minutes
30+ Ç&#x2021;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ć?Í&#x203A; Ä?ĆľĆ?Ĺ?ĹśÄ&#x17E;Ć?Ć? Ä&#x17E;Ç&#x2020;Ć&#x2030;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ä&#x17E;ĹśÄ?Ä&#x17E; ŽŜ Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161; ĨŽĆ&#x152; ŽĨĨĹ?Ä?Ä&#x17E;Ć? ĹŻÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ä&#x17E; Ĺ˝Ć&#x152; Ć?ĹľÄ&#x201A;ĹŻĹŻ Contact 01343 835403, view our website www.ryburnoffice.co.uk or e-mail info@ryburnoffice.co.uk
Are you fed up with your smile? Why not let Doctor Denture create you a new one. &RIENDLY %XPERT 0ROFESSIONAL CARE IS ONLY A CALL AWAY &ROM DESIGNER DENTURES TO GENERAL DENTURE PROBLEMS WE HAVE THE SOLUTION !LL DENTURES ARE CREATED ON SITE IN OUR OWN ,ABORATORY (OME VISITS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE
We also offer 4EETH 7HITENING s &ACIAL 2EJUVINATION s $ERMAL &ILLERS 6 Crown Avenue, Inverness IV2 3NF
01463 226118
www.doctordenture.com
Canine Behaviourist and Trainer â&#x20AC;&#x153; Communicating with dogs naturally in your own homeâ&#x20AC;?
Puppy Training Â&#x2021; Obedience Problem Behaviour Joanne Newsome DIP.DOG.PSY Tel: 07715 557395
NEW SHOWHOME OPENS at MEADOW LEA - NAIRN craftsmanship, and the fixtures & fittings are what you would expect in a much more expensive, architect’s self-build. From the beautifully designed & crafted kitchen area, the luxurious bathroom (with power-shower), to the ultra stylish sun-room and World-class style that doesn’t cost the earth. The Meadow Lea residential development in Nairn is probably the most stylish building project ever undertaken in the area. It’s proximity to the town centre, the Nairn Dunbar Golf Club, and the Moray Firth also makes it an extremely desirable location. It’s very obvious that the developers Kylauren Homes really did their homework and got all the critical ingredients spot-on. But perhaps the defining element of the whole ambitious project is the attention to detail. If you get the chance to take a closer look at the individual houses, pay attention to the quality of finishes – they survive tough scrutiny by even the most discerning of potential home-buyers. The new show-home now open at 5 Montgomerie Drive is a typical example of the high standards set by the builders (and definitely worth a look). It seems they have an almost obsessive demand for
living room, the overall effect is one of elegance and quality. The bedrooms are comfortable, warm and friendly with plenty of storage space and natural light. The stairway and hallway are dramatically enhanced with a contemporary polished steel and birch-wood balustrade & handrail. And the garden areas – pretty generous really.
What is particularly special about these homes, is that the owners have the opportunity to design so much of the important details themselves. From the style of the kitchen and bathroom, to the type of hardware, flooring and fittings – in fact all the elements that give a home individuality and character. Kylauren Homes claim they design for comfort and build for life. If the show-home at Meadow Lea is anything to go by, then they certainly live up to their promise. The properties range from 2 & 3 bedroom semi-detached houses and bungalows, to 3 bedroom detached bungalows, and 3 & 4 bedroom detached houses. Prices start from £154,500 for a 2 bed semi-detached property, so they’re surprisingly inexpensive. All in all, it’s world-class style that doesn’t cost the earth.
Showhomes at: Meadow Lea, Montgomerie Drive, Nairn IV12 5RW. Open - Thurs to Mon 11.30am to 5pm Tel: 01667 452508 www.kylaurenhomes.co.uk
“ Parliament Blog ” On the day of the recent live broadcast of Brian’s Big
On a recent visit to Moray College I was told of how
Debate from Lossiemouth with BBC Scotland’s
proud the College were of their catering students who
Political Editor Brian Taylor, Brian and I participated in
are running a restaurant night at the College’s
a Question & Answer session with local students from
Beechtree Restaurant on a Thursday under the title
Lossiemouth High School.
‘Hellish Kitchen’.
One tricky question that was thrown up was about the
Diners, who are invited to pay what they believe the
relationship between journalists and politicians. After
meal is worth, have apparently noted that it is the best
some thought it was concluded that it is somewhat
place for a meal for many miles around for an incredi-
akin to the relationship between a dog
bly low price. This may of course be disputed by many
and a lamppost!
of the other quality eateries in Moray - not least
Designed for comfort. Built for
As a former journalist turned politician I am left
because a good number of the chefs at these estab-
wondering whether I am the dog or the lamppost or
lishments are graduates from Moray College courses!!
possibly even both.
It is great to see this very healthy competitiveness and
~~If I wasn’t confused
tremendously high standard
before - I think I am now!
of food preparation.
Angus Robertson MP
Richard Lochhead MSP
See the details for yourself - visit our new showhome at Meadow Lea, Nairn Beautifully appointed, superbly finished. Not only in the fixtures and fittings but in our almost obsessive demand for craftsmanship. We never ever settle for second best. Our properties range from 2 and 3 bedroomed semidetached houses and bungalows to 3 bedroomed detached bungalows, and 3 & 4 bedroomed detached houses. Prices start from only ÂŁ154,500 for a 2 bed semi-detached property. Pop in today. We promise you world-class style that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cost the earth.
Showhomes at: Meadow Lea, Montgomerie Drive, Nairn IV12 5RW. Open - Thurs to Mon 11.30am to 5pm Designed for comfort. Built for life.
Tel: 01667 452508
www.kylaurenhomes.co.uk
nature EYES TO THE SKIES The Red Kite, one of our largest birds of prey, was extinct in Scotland for over 100 years, having been persecuted for hundreds of years prior to that. The birds died out partly due to a reduction in food supply as humans became tidier, but mainly due to poisoning and shooting. With their russet Red Kite in flight colouring, forked tail and 5 ½ foot wingspan, larger than a buzzard, they are one of the the easiest birds of prey to identify. Despite their size, kites are relatively light with an average body weight of just two to three pounds. Consequently they are able to stay aloft for hours on end
For the first two to three years of their lives, kites roam the countryside. On reaching this age they will settle down to build a nest and Red Kite feeding will normally mate for life. This is believed to be more to do with a shared interest in a territory than loyalty to each other. They will build a nest, made of twigs and lined with grass and tufts of sheep’s wool. They will lay up to 4 eggs which the female will incubate for around four weeks, though the male will occasionally take a turn to allow her to feed or preen. Red kites were re-introduced to the Black Isle in 1989 with the first breeding success in 1992 and can often be seen soaring above fields and verges. However the recovery has stalled since 1999 with few chicks surviving to breeding age. The eyes to the skies project http://www.eyestotheskies.org.uk was set up by the RSPB, SNH and various other bodies to try to re-start the recovery by raising awareness of the species and what is being done locally to help this. An excellent viewing centre has been set up at Tollie, west of Dingwall where food is put out daily to attract kites. Most activity can be observed over the winter months when less carrion is available naturally. I hope you’ve found something interesting in this article and do let me have your own wildlife photos and stories. Contact me at:
40
Ian MacLeod, Wild West www.wildwestsafari.co.uk ian@wildwestsafari.co.uk Offering wildlife safaris in the Great Glen and surrounding areas.
November
Kites are mainly carrion eaters, scavenging on the remains of any dead animals they may find. However, they are not particularly strong birds and consequently are unable to open up the carcasses of sheep or lambs. For this they depend on more powerful birds such as ravens or buzzards, or a fox. They will also take live prey which may include small mammals and birds plus large insects and earthworms. They live on the edge of woodlands with a preference for woods that back on to farmland.
Next month: Winter visitors
fitness
Boot It
Science Daily (Feb. 5, 2011) — A systematic review carried out at the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry has concluded that there are benefits to mental and physical wellbeing from taking exercise in the natural environment. It is something we have always known to be true but it is good to see the scientific evidence there to back it up. Keeping fit outdoors is refreshing and enjoyable, you are liberated from any constraints put upon you in the gym, max 15min on the treadmill, wipe down the machines after use, classes only on a certain times and having get dressed up to go to the gym out of fear of looking tatty all add to your already stressfull day. To a point that in many gyms we are seeing a new form of road rage….. Gym rage. People are getting worked up by others not conforming to the gym etiquette. This is not how exercise is meant to be, it’s meant to be relaxing, destressing, helping your body to cope with the demands of modern living, whilst growing stronger. The research cited above found that exercising outdoors provided a better state of mental wellbeing, less stress and more calories burnt. Variable terrain provides a tougher surface to exercise on giving a more fuller muscular contraction meaning you are getting more bang for your buck per hours exercise. So to sum up, training outdoors is • less stressfull • Better for you physically • Better for you mentally • more versatile than the gym • Costs less than the gym There are downsides of course. Training in Scotland has the inevitable Scottish weather, but as a friend of ours always says, there is no such thing as bad weather, just a bad choice of clothing…. So no more excuses get yourself out for a walk, jog or run today! Or of course join your local burn it boot camp. The full research article can be viewed at www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/02/110204130607.htm
Julie Jones Interiors... Soft Furnishing and Interior Design • Made-to-measure Curtains • Roman Blinds • Curtain Poles • Lighting and Furniture • Wallpaper Please ask about our NEW wedding service
Tel (01343) 549549 • Mobile 07812 060704 5 Hermes Road, Bishopmill, Elgin (next to Pink Nail bar and James Cameron Hairdressing)
E-mail:julie_jones@live.co.uk • www.interiorsbyjuliejones.co.uk
farming
THE TATTIE HOLIDAYS Story by Jock Scott
When a local publication wrote a question and answer piece on people who have done well in life, they always ask ‘what was your first job and how much did you get paid?’ More often than not, the answer is tattie picking for half-a-crown or some such sum. There was an expectation in the Highlands and North East 50 years ago that children would work on farms to hand lift the potato crop during the October break. ‘The tattie holiday was an exciting time for country kids with the prospect of earning your own money for the first time. The work was exhausting, back bent, filling basket after basket with newly dug potatoes. It was heavy, dirty work for a child but pocketing the 10 bob note (50 pence) reward was magical!’ Christine Scott First there was the exciting trip to field in the ‘bogie’ (tractor trailer). The farmer would jump out of the idling tractor and measure that day’s stints, which was the distance along the potato row (drill) each individual had to gather. He would goosestep the length of the drill, divide the distance by number of pickers and mark each stint. A tractor drawn potato digger would then go down a single drill bringing the potatoes to the surface from where women and children picked them into baskets. It was a man’s job to collect the baskets and tip them into the bogie. Back at the farm the potatoes were tipped into a shallow pit. When the clamp was full straw was spread over it for insulation and then, once the potatoes had cured a little, a casing of earth was put over the top and firmly patted down. The pit was carefully opened periodically over the winter months and potatoes taken out as required, using a tattie graip, a close spaced fork with bulbous ends to the tines to protect the potatoes. Pits are seldom used for storage now but some farmers still use traditional methods of harvesting as it allows smaller amounts of a wider range of interesting and tasty varieties to be grown. People up here are very particular about their tatties and often describe them not in terms of taste but rather of consistency and texture using words such as wet, dry, mealy and waxy. For further information on our locally grown Tatties or other vegetables please contact Jock at Scotgro on Tel: 07580 231030 or pop by to our farm at Broombank Farm, Auldearn, Nairn (There’s always tatties at the end of the road!)
44
CHRISTMAS PARTIES AT THE
DUFFUS INN
BOOK NOW FOR YOUR FESTIVE PARTY LUNCH MENU From...ÂŁ
16.95
Delivering fresh local produce to your Door to Inverness, Evanton, Black Isle, Nairn, Forres, Elgin and Lossiemouth
Scotgro, Broombank Farm, Auldearn, Nairn
Scotgro can deliver a box containing a selection of fresh local vegetables from our Nairnshire farm to your doorstep. Subscribing online for a regular weekly or fortnightly box is easy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you can even tell us which vegetables you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like so that we know not to put them in your box.
Order on-line at scotgro.com
Tel: 07580 231030
Mini ÂŁ10 (1-2 people) Box ÂŁ12 (2-4 people) Crate ÂŁ16 (4-7 people)
DINNER MENU From...ÂŁ
19
1 Hopeman R Road, oad, D Duffus, uffus, Elg Elgin in IV30 5RR
01343 835065 w www.duffusinn.co.uk ww.duffusinn.co.uk admin@duffusinn.c admin@duffusinn.co.uk o.uk
"
! !!
McDonald & Munro Ltd
Electrical Engineers & Contractors DOMESTIC
Ianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ian â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Handyman S Service ervice A reliable, reliable, friendly friendly and tidy handyman ser service vice
01343 84 842761 2761 or 07737083985 07737083985 ZZZ LDQV KDQG\PDQ VHUYLFH FR XN Â&#x2021; LDQVBKDQG\PDQ#EWLQWHUQHW FRP Z ZZ LDQV KDQG\PDQ VHUYLFH FR XN Â&#x2021; LDQVBKDQG\PDQ#EWLQWHUQHW FRP
COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL 4 Moycroft Industrial Estate, Elgin Â&#x2039;
^^^ TJKVUHSKHUKT\UYV JV \R Â&#x2039; LTHPS! PUMV'TJKVUHSKHUKT\UYV JV \R
spotlight Magazines
to advertise in the next issue of spotlight on elgin & lossie call 01309 690063 or go online for details www.spotlighton.co.uk
SpotLight spotlight Qr Code
Ashley Ann ........................................Inside Front Cover Attic Clothing ....................................Inside Back Cover AW Landscapes ............................................................5 Beaver Travel ..............................................................33 Best Western Windsor Hotel ........................................7 Birnie Inn ......................................................................3 Brodie Countryfare......................................................16 Burnit Boot Camp Ltd ................................................41 Christie’s Heating and Plumbing................................13 City of Elgin BID Limited ............................................22 Covesea Cafe ............................................................17 Dittmar Herrnkind - Your Handyman ..........................27 Divine Gifts ..................................................................33 DLP Storage..................................................................5 Doctor Denture ..........................................................37 Duffus Inn....................................................................45 Eden Court Theatre & Cinema ..................................18 Eight Acres Hotel ........................................................15 Elgin Eagles Basketball Club ......................................4 Elgin Flower Club........................................................23 Excel Scotland Ltd ........................................................9 Fairleys Solicitors..........................................................9 Forres Precast ............................................................45 Forres Tree Services ..................................................13 Gordon Scott Chartered Accountant..........................13 Ian’s Handyman Services ..........................................45 ilash Theatre ..............................................................25 J Bee’s ........................................................................33 Joanne Newsome Canine Behaviourist ....................37 Julie Jones Interiors........................................42 and 43 Knockomie Hotel ........................................................27 KTY Properties ..............................................................9 Kylauren Homes ........................................................39 Mackenzie & Cruickshank ..........................................34 Mansion House Hotel ................................................30 Mark Valentine Joinery Services ................................37
SpotLight on Elgin, Lossie and District
Advertisers Index McAndies Garage ......................................................33 McCalls ......................................................................27 McClintock Opticians..................................................25 McDonald & Munro ....................................................45 Mhairi Donald..............................................................27 Mike O'Driscoll Builders..............................................11 Moray Coast Veterinary Group ....................................3 Moray Piano Trust ......................................................23 Moray Tribal Dance ....................................................22 MRD Flooring................................................................9 Nairn Community & Arts Centre ................................20 Olive Tree Chocolate ..................................................25 PartyLite Consultant....................................................22 Pole Dance Scotland ..................................................25 Private - Dining............................................................37 REAP Scotland ..........................................................35 Reid Furniture ............................................................29 Roof Wizard ................................................................27 Ryburn Office ..............................................................37 Scotengineering..........................................................45 ScotGro ......................................................................45 Simone Herrnkind - German Tutor ............................25 Spotty Bag Shop ........................................................28 Springfield Bar ............................................................23 Stagecoach Theatre ......................Outside Back Cover Sue Taylor Zumba ......................................................20 The Blind Spot ............................................................13 The Dressing Room ....................................................19 The House of Automata..............................................17 The Loft Bistro ............................................................31 Unique Beauty ..................................Front Cover and 3 Universal Hall ..............................................................19 Varis Training ..................................................13 and 20 Wheelchair Care ........................................................13 Words By The Wayside ................................................8
www.spotlighton.co.uk
November 2011 - page 46
AL SO
Stagecoach Inverness is now taking bookings for Spring Term 2012. ‘LAMDA’ Examinations (The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art). ★★ NEW FOR 2012 ★★ London Trip Famous Pinapple Dance Studios Workshops with Westend Performers 2 West End Shows!
For further information please contact: Amy Mullen on 01463 710015 Email: inverness@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/inverness
See us on Facebook
AB LE
Nurturing and developing young peoples potential through dance, drama and singing. For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops.
IL VA
The original, largest and still tthe he best ne network of performing arts sschools in the world.
A