SpotLight on Inverness & District May 2014

M AY 2 0 1 4

I NV E R NE S S & D I S T RI C T THE NORTH’S FAVOURITE FREE WEE MAG

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3 Critical Features to demand from Your New Vet...

Moving to a new area is a challenging process for your family, your pet will be stressed by the process as well. At Moray Coast Vet Group we want you to know that we are here to help you and your pets settle into the area.

Why would you use us? Well it’s simple really, we have been vets in this area for a very long time and can offer your pet the following 3 critical benefits: to a Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Accredited Practice, Access meaning your pet will be treated to the highest standards. convenient surgery locations making it easy to get to us Four day and night. and well equipped surgeries meaning we can treat all routine Modern conditions without the need to refer your pet.

So all you need to do now, for peace of mind for you and your pet, is call us to say ‘hello’ and we will do all that is necessary to register your pet with our practice. Oh, and we will call your old vet to request your pet’s existing notes, so we can be familiar with everything we need to know.

Now that is peace of mind for your pet.

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Forres Surgery (main branch) 01309 672243 Nairn Surgery 01667 453161 Lossiemouth Surgery 01343 815335 Balloch Surgery 01463 794224 24 HOUR EMERGENCY NUMBER 01309 672243 www.moraycoastvetgroup.co.uk

CLUBS & SOCIETIES BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP Last Thursday of the month, 7pm - 9pm, Best Western Palace Hotel, Inverness. For those who have lost a baby before, during or after birth. Bring along any photos or memory items.

Contact Susan 07771358382 or Denise on 07724306983 BOLESKINE SHINTY CLUB Call 791955 or email: lizbmacd@aol.com www.myweb.tiscali.co.uk/shinty/ CHARLESTON YOUTH THEATRE For ages 12-18, Charleston Academy, Inverness CHEERFUL CHESTERS Mondays, 11am at Raigmore Community Hall, Ashton Rd. Main objective is to help people with severe respiratory problems through regular gentle exercise under the direction of a qualified physiotherapist. For more info call Maureen on 01463 221204 CROWN CHURCH MENS CLUB Call 237768 or email mackenzie17@mackenzie17.plus. com

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CROY & CULLODEN MOOR SENIOR CITIZENS' LUNCH CLUB Alternate Wed 1 - 3pm, Church Hall, Croy, £3 for 2 course meal & afternoon tea. Dominoes, jigsaws and other activities CULLODEN FENCING CLUB Tuesdays 7pm - 9pm during term time at Culloden Academy Community Centre. Call 792794 DINGWALL FRISBEE CLUB Sundays 3-4pm at Dingwall Leisure Centre. Call Luke 07970 597770 or ljsh@hotmail.co.uk FAMILIES ANONYMOUS Meet every Thursday night. For families & friends affected by drug addiction & alcoholism. Anonymity & confidentiality respected. Newcomers welcome without prior arrangements. Call Denise for more details on 07983 001962.

Helpline number: 0845 1200 660.

FAMILY FIRST A support service for families with at least one child 0-3 yrs old. Tel: 703033 or email: alisonstanley@smoothmail.co.uk FRIENDS OF THE BIRNIE PLAYGROUP Wednesdays 9:30am - 11:30am & 12:30pm - 2:30pm in the playroom at The Birnie Centre, Raigmore Hospital. For children with additional needs & their families and carers. Call Anne on 07542712381 for more info.

FITNESS FRENZY Fitness sessions Thursday lunchtimes at the palace hotel.

Visit www.fitnessfrenzy.co.uk

FORTROSE SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLUB Mondays at 7.30pm (7.00pm for beginners) at Gordon Memorial Hall, Rosemarkie. All welcome.

Contact Susan 01381 610253 HARMONY MUSIC THERAPY SCOTLAND Individual & Group Music Therapy sessions to encourage, enable and empower all ages and abilities through interactive music experiences. Will travel to private homes, facilities and schools. Call Kristen Macleod on 07770427396.

HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS AUTISM SOCIETY Support group. Last Wednesday of the month in MacKenzie Centre, Culduthel Road, Inverness at 7.30pm. All welcome.

HIGHLAND SCHOOLS GYMNASTICS ASSOCIATION To promote participation in the sport of gymnastics within schools across the Highlands.

HIGHLAND SPIRITUAL CINEMA A small, independent film group screening films that uplift and inspire, that entertain and inform.

Monthly film nights at The Little Theatre in Nairn. For more information go to: www.highlandspiritualcinema.net or telephone 01463 237452.

INVERNESS CLASSIC JAZZ SOCIETY Tel: 01463 223857 www.ds.dial.pipex.com/ jazzitoria/home.htm

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page 4 - May 2014

INVERNESS CHESS CLUB Wednesday, 7pm - 10:30pm, Chieftain Hotel, Inverness.

Provides coaching and games for all ages & standards, juniors welcome. www.spanglefish.com/ invernesschessclub INVERNESS & DISTRICT MODEL RAILWAY CLUB Meet Tuesday evenings in Inverness to promote model railways. New members always welcome. Contact Gerry Parks for details on 07801 593637.

INVERNESS RADIO VOLUNTEERS Do you have spare time at the weekend and have the use of a car? Then the IRV would like to hear from you as we are looking for more volunteers. For more information contact 794984 or visit www.inverness radiovolunteers.co.uk NORTHERN COUNTIES CRICKET CLUB Providing cricketing opportunities to all members of the local community. Tel: Hamish Christie on 239894 or 07761 119604 PLEASE NOTE: Details of Clubs & Societies are published on a rotational basis.

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

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INVERNESS CATHEDRAL SOCIETY OF BELL RINGERS Thursdays 7.30pm - 9pm.

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The Editor

Scottish Independence seems to be just about everywhere at the moment. TV debates, local meetings, etc and is the hot topic of many conversations. It will be, arguably, one of the biggest decisions the nation has made for decades if not centuries.

Whatever the outcome we must be grateful that this is following a truly democratic process and not the turbulence being witnessed in places like the Ukraine.

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PASTORAL LETTER & CHURCH MEETINGS The step of faith The tightrope walker Jean Francois Gravelot, who became known as ‘The Great Blondin’, began his career as a circus acrobat. However, as time went on he found the circus ring increasingly limiting and he began the quest for a greater challenge. In 1858 he decided to attempt a tightrope crossing of the Niagara Falls.

It was a journey of over 300 metres on a rope suspended about 60 metres above the falls, but Blondin was undaunted and in June 1859 he completed the crossing. It was the first of a number of crossings which he made both that year and the next. Each time he made the journey he looked for new variations to increase the challenge and the spectacle. He crossed the rope blindfolded, and on another occasion carried a small cooking stove on his back, stopping halfway across to cook and eat an omelette.

Blondin was a great showman, and often interacted with the large crowds who gathered to watch him perform. An eyewitness describes how Blondin once

caused great excitement by asking the onlookers if they believed that he could cross the rope while carrying a man on his back. The response, it appears, was overwhelming. The crowd shouted fervently: “We believe! We believe! We believe!” However, the reaction was quite different when Blondin personalised the question: “Who will be that man?” The crowd fell silent. No one stepped forward. In the end, the only volunteer was Blondin’s own business manager, Harry Colcord, who climbed on his back and made the crossing smoking a cigar all the way. The entire crowd told Blondin “We believe!” but actually only one man really believed. It is easy to say “I believe”, but the acid test of our belief is not what we say but what we do.

Harry Colcord demonstrated that he truly believed because he was willing to place his life in the hands of Blondin. This is what the Bible calls faith.

Thomas, one of Jesus’ disciples, demanded to see absolute proof that Jesus was alive before he would believe that He had been raised from the dead: “But he said to them, ‘Unless

Inshes, Church of Scotland Insches Retail Park, Inverness. Rev. David Scott. Tel: 01463 226727. Website: www.insheschurch.org Inverness Baptist Church 69 Castle Street. Rev. Tom Urquhart. Tel: 01463 223506. Email: tajurquhart@btinernet.com Inverness Christian Fellowship Millburn Academy, Diriebught Road.

Sundays 10.30am. Website: www.icfchurch.co.uk Inverness Church of God Friars Lane. Sunday 10.30am and 6.30pm.

Tel: 01463 241318.

Inverness Church of God Sundays 10.30am and 6.30pm. Tel: 01463 241318.

Inverness Crown Church, Church of Scotland 3 Midmills Road. Tel: 01463 230537.

Inverness East Church, Church of Scotland Academy Street.

Contact Rev. Professor ATB McGowan: 01463 236695.

Website: www.invernesseast.com Inverness Greyfriars Stratherrick Free Church Greyfriars at Balloan Road, Inverness, and Stratherrick at Errogie, Stratherrick. Tel: 01463 714085. Website: www.greyfriarschurch.org Inverness Methodist Church Huntly Street, Inverness. Tel: 01463 239784. Website: www.churchesinverness.com Kiltarlity Church of Scotland Kiltarlity, Inverness-shire. Sundays: 12noon. Website: www.kiltarlityandkirkhill.org.uk Kiltarlity Free Church of Scotland Kiltarlity, Inverness-shire. Tel: 01463 741729. Email: jfraser@gmail.com Kings Fellowship Meets at Smithton Industrial Estate, Culloden. Tel:

page 6 - May 2014

I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.’”

(John 20:25b) Although Thomas eventually did receive the proof he asked for, Jesus’ response to his unbelief was this: “Then Jesus told him, ‘Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’ (John 20:29) There is much evidence which points to the accuracy of the Bible’s account of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, but we are not offered absolute proof. Harry Colcord had good evidence of Blondin’s ability, but he nevertheless took a step of faith as he climbed onto his back. As a result of his faith, he reached the other side of the rope.

I’m not sure that there is any tightrope walker on earth who is worthy of our faith, but I am convinced that Jesus is.

There is a rope which leads to God and we cannot cross it alone. Without a step of faith we cannot reach the other side.

Owen Morris

01463 792700. Email: info@thekingsfactory.com Kingsview Christian Centre Balnafettack Road, Inverness, IV3 8TF. Sundays 11.30am and 6pm. Wednesdays 7.30pm. Tel: 01463 716843.

Kinmylies Church of Scotland Kinmylies Way, Inverness. Sundays 10.30am. Tel: 01463 714035. Website: www.kinmylies.co.uk Kirkhill (Wardlaw) Church of Scotland Sundays 10.30am.

Website: www.kiltarlityandkirkhill.org.uk Knockbain Free Church Ferry Brae, North Kessock. Tel: 01463 731368. Email: nwmacleod@talktalk.net Maryburgh & Killearnan Free Church Seaforth Place, Maryburgh tel: 01349 863367. Killearnan Manse, Bogroy, Tore - tel: 731369 email: cswan@ctlconnect.co.uk Ness Bank Church of Scotland Inverness. Sundays 11am. Tel: 01463 243165. Website: www.nessbank.net North Kessock, Church of Scotland Main Street, North Kessock. Tel: 01463 731712. Website: www.churchofscotland.org.uk Old High St Stephen's, Church of Scotland 1) Old High Church, Church Street, Inverness. Sundays 11.15am. Tel: 01463 250802. 2) St Stephen’s Church, Southside Road at Old Edinburgh Road, Inverness. Sundays 10am. Tel: 01463 250802.www.oldhighststephens.com Listed A - H and regularly rotated. If you are a member of a church not listed and would like to be considered for inclusion or for any amendments please email tamsyn@spotlighton.co.uk

tel: 01309 690063

admin@spotlighton.co.uk

USEFUL INFORMATION Local & Bank Holidays and Special Days Early May Bank Holiday Spring Bank Holiday Father’s Day Longest Day Local Holiday ‡ Summer Bank Holiday Local Holiday ‡

Mon 5th May 2014 Mon 26th May 2014 Sun 15th Jun 2014 Sat 21st Jun 2014 Mon 7th Jul 2014 Mon 4th Aug 2014 Mon 6th Oct 2014

British Summertime Ends Halloween Local Holiday ‡ Bonfire Night St Andrew’s Day St Andrew’s Day Observed ‡ Inverness

Sun 26th Oct 2014 Fri 31st Oct 2014 Mon 3rd Nov 2014 Wed 5th Nov 2014 Sun 30th Nov 2014 Mon 1st Dec 2014

School Term Dates for 2013/2014 (all dates inclusive) May Day Holiday Mon 5th May 2014 Summer Term Ends Thurs 3rd Jul 2014 for 2014/2015 (all dates inclusive) In-Service Day Mon 18th Aug 2014 Autumn Term Starts Tues 19th Aug 2014 In-Service Day Thurs 25th Sep 2014 In-Service Day Fri 26th Sep 2014 Autumn Term Ends Fri 10th Oct 2014

Autumn Holiday Starts Autumn Holiday Ends Winter Term Starts Winter Term Ends Christmas Holiday Starts Christmas Holiday Ends Spring Term Starts Mid Term Holiday Mid Term Holiday

Mon 13th Oct 2014 Fri 24th Oct 2014 Mon 27th Oct 2014 Fri 19th Dec 2014 Mon 22nd Dec 2014 Fri 2nd Jan 2015 Mon 5th Jan 2015 Mon 16th Feb 2015 Tues 17th Feb 2015

Useful Contacts Ardersier Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01667 462658 Beauly Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 782930 Black Isle Leisure Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01381 621252 Bus Station, Inverness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 239292 Citizens Advice Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08444 994111 Cromarty Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01381 600318 Culloden Academy Community Complex . . . . . 01463 792794 Culloden Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 792531 Dalcross Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01667 464000 Fortrose Community Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01381 622235 Highland Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01349 886606 Inshes Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 725928 Inverness Leisure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 667500 Inverness Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 236463 National Rail Enquires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08457 484950 Police Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 SCHOOLS Aldourie Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 751272 Ardersier Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01667 462344 Auldearn Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01667 452118 Balloch Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 790287 Balnain Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01456 476262 Beauly Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 782576 Bishop Eden’s Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 237103 Bun-Sgoil Ghàidhlig Inbhir Nis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 725980 Cannich Bridge Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01456 415304 Cauldeen Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 235905 Cawdor Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01667 402460 Central Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 233906 Charleston Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 234324 Cradlehall Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 791195 Crown Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 233879 Croy Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01667 493356 Culloden Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 790851

page 8 - May 2014

Dalneigh Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 232636 Daviot Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 772226 Dochgarroch Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 861240 Drakies Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 236032 Drummond School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 701050 Duncan Forbes Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 791897 Farr Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01808 521246 Foyers Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01456 486612 Glen Urquhart High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01456 459134 Glenurquhart Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01456 450458 Hilton Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 230435 Holm Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 232697 Inshes Primary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 725920 Inverness High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 233586 Inverness Royal Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 222884 Kinmylies Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 239720 Kirkhill Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 831543 Lochardil Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 230250 Merkinch Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 232962 Millbank Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01667 452240 Millburn Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 729152 Muirtown Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 239537 Nairn Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01667 453700 Raigmore Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 234971 Rosebank Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01667 454090 Smithton Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 791606 St. Joseph’s R.C. Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 231837 Strathdearn Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 226197 Stratherrick Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01456 486630 Teanassie Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 782581 Tomnacross Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 741497 These are rotated on a regular basis. To add a contact or to amend existing details, email tamsyn@spotlighton.co.uk

tel: 01309 690063

admin@spotlighton.co.uk

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PARLIAMENT BLOG & TIDE TIMES

“

Parliament Blog

Financial NHS In Holyrood we passed the new law last month which will help people in severe debt problems. This piece of largely technical legislation does however introduce a new concept - that of a financial NHS. The idea is that we need to provide advice and information to people to cope with finances, starting from an early age. Part of the need for this stems from the growth of pay day lending - an appalling and pernicious practice which has grown up in recent years. A person may borrow a hundred pounds and quickly find that if he does not pay it back the following month, he is then in debt to the tune of several hundreds of pounds. This is because in the UK, unlike most other countries, the lenders can charge what they wish - sometimes over 4000% per annum. We have in the Citizens Advice Bureau in Inverness and in Nairn an excellent body of advisers who can help with advice. And we need to see more done in schools to help youngsters learn how to manage their cash. Parents of course have a massive role to play here.

The growth in severe problems with cutbacks in welfare payments, sanctions, the unfair bedroom tax, and exorbitant interest on pay day loans is causing real hardship to a growing number of people in our society.

”

Like many Highlanders I was delighted to sign the petition calling for Alain Baxter's winter bronze medal to be reinstated.

Thousands have already signed up and the number is growing steadily.

Every athlete who commits tens of thousands of hours to the rigours of training to represent their country and their community on the world stage deserves our support.

Mr Baxter’s bronze medal, the first ever for a British skier, was controversially stripped from him after he failed a drugs test for taking a US-version Vick's nasal inhaler.

He was later cleared of the offence but despite the best efforts of the Highlander, his family, and the British Olympic Association his medal was never returned.

So, I have written to the UK Sports Minister to see how best we can continue the campaign and was very disappointed to learn that Alex Salmond has refused to sign the petition. I hope thousands more will help keep up the pressure and sign on in support..

Danny Alexander MP

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

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tel : 01667 404766 mob : 07903 048235 email : info@cawdorfencing.co.uk web : www.cawdorfencing.co.uk

Fencing Landscaping Garden Maintenance page 10 - May 2014

AM 00:16 03:15 04:03 04:43 05:21 06:03 06:45 07:27 08:08 08:51 09:36 10:26

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Westwood, Littlemill, Nairn Tel. 01667 454536 or

gillian@westwoodcattery.co.uk

d

Cawdor

PM 20:38 21:01 21:01 21:21 21:59 22:57 13:33

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Fergus Ewing MSP

www.westwoodcattery.co.uk

Feline Advisory Bureau Registered, Listed in Good Cattery Guide

tel: 01309 690063

admin@spotlighton.co.uk

INNES HOUSE

Weddings and Corporate Entertainment A Unique place for any Occasion It is difficult to imagine a more romantic setting for your wedding than a 17th century house set in a sheltered walled garden. However, Innes is not just a stunning venue which you and your guests will never forget, but also offers a wholly flexible programme to enable you to plan your day exactly as you would like.

Every wedding is unique and tailor-made for each couple. You may hold the ceremony here in the garden or in one of the two beautiful reception rooms. After the service your guests can wander around the gardens whilst you have your photographs taken in these tranquil, romantic surroundings.

The reception and dinner may be held in the East Dining Room or larger parties can be held in our marquee extension which covers a walled garden complete with a summer house for the bar and a fountain around which the tables are set. After dinner you may enjoy dancing or other entertainment and then drive away down the tree lined avenue and look back on a magnificent floodlit house.

Alternatively, you and some of your guests may stay the night in one of our splendidly appointed bedrooms and leave after a leisurely breakfast the next morning.

“Many venues have a marquee in their garden, but how many have a garden in their marquee…?”

Innes House – Elgin – Moray – IV30 8NG Tel. 01343 842410 enquiries@inneshouse.co.uk – www.inneshouse.co.uk Please quote ‘SpotLight’ when making an enquiry

garden

GreenThumb

UK FRANCHISE OF THE YEAR RUNNER UP

2013

Spotlight Columnist has a Spring in his Step this Month!

Yes, your Moray Firth lawncare franchise has just won UK Franchise of the Year Runner Up 2013, based on growth, service and recommendations in the year. Not bad for a small franchise up here against UK-wide competition. We always thought we had an enviable territory; nice weather; nice gardens; and nice customers! Thanks to you all for supporting our wee business. Good to know our efforts are appreciated.

For more information about seasonal lawn improvements from just £15 per qtr, plus useful downloads and photos, go to www.greenthumb.co.uk. Although GreenThumb is a national franchise with over 200 branches across the UK, we are locally based in Nairnshireand cover the whole Moray Firth area. Contact Alastair or Fiona for a FREE LAWN ANALYSIS on

So, we’re trying to do our bit, what are you doing to overcome your lawn problems? Usually around now, I make a plea for you all to give the grass a chance to look after itself by not cutting it too short. Almost every gardening column/book/programme – and GreenThumb for that matter– will suggest you shouldn’t cut the grass shorter than about an inch. Think shag pile carpet, not threadbare rug! Mow it as often as you like, just take the cutters up a notch, it will make all the difference, and it’s free! Garden grass is not putting green grass, and scalping it is the quickest way to get a moss infestation as it leaves the grass permanently weak.

Put on a new blade, or have the old one sharpened. A clean cut for a grass plant is just like sharp secateurs for any other plant. A ripping cut damages the grass plant, causes browning of the tips, and makes it more susceptible to disease.

12

01667 460012, or email us at: inverness@ greenthumb.co.uk

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Forres is Flying the Flag for Title Sponsor

On Saturday 28th June 2014, Grant Park, Forres Twelve drummers drumming, eleven pipers piping - well actually around 3,600 pipers and drummers will be piping and drumming in Grant Park, Forres on Saturday 28 June 2014 as they compete in the European Pipe Band Championships, sponsored by Benromach Speyside Single Malt Whisky.

The competition itself is run by the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association to a well-practised formula where bands compete in their own grade, from juveniles to Grade 1 in 1 of 4 arenas on the park, the vast size and natural amphitheatre of Grant Park easily absorbs the sound. In addition there’s also a competition for the best Drum Major and a Highland Dancing competition.

Come and cheer on your local Pipe Band or just come and enjoy the traditional sights and sounds of Scotland – either way, with thousands of pipers and drummers dressed in their colourful tartans, it’ll be a day to remember.

Supported by EventScotland, Homecoming Scotland 2014 and the Community Food Fund as well as a number of sponsors and other funders.

Ticket Prices and full information on: www.pipinghotforres.com; Facebook: pipinghotforres.

Twitter: @PipingHotForres.

TITLE SPONSOR

As well as around 120 pipe bands, Forres Events Ltd who have brought the event to Forres have set up a competition to cook the World’s Tastiest Tattie Scone and brought over one hundred stalls

selling the best produce from the Moray area from Johnston’s cashmere to Dean’s and Walkers shortbread and of course Benromach Whisky, as well as food stalls and several beer tents.

WE’RE BACK...

Up to 4,000 Pipers & Drummers, 150 Pipe Bands, 100 Exhibitors, 200 Volunteers, 18,000 Spectators

AND YOU! On Saturday 28th June 2014, Grant Park, Forres will be alive with the sound of Pipers and Drummers competing in the European Pipe Band Championships Take along the whole family and join us for a spectacular day - there’s something for everyone.

COME AND JOIN US!

PLATINUM SPONSORS

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT www.pipinghotforres.com GOLD SPONSORS

FUNDING PARTNERS

OFFICIAL BOTTLED WATER

Let Us Know ‘What’s On’ In Your Area *Deadline for the June Issue: Friday, 2nd May* Email: tamsyn@spotlighton.co.uk Telephone: 01309 690063 Inclusion of events in What’s On is free.

We do not accept submissions for classes, courses or workshops.

Contact venues & organisers first as there may be changes to events.

3 saturday mahler players and conductor tomas leakey @ strathpeffer pavilion 8pm. for more information visit www.strathpefferpavilion.org dj yoda+filth+ally ridgers+stephanie lewicki+kaos theory @ ironworks 10pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com great glen walking club bachd ban. 9 miles. depart 8:30am from highland council car park. contact 01463 236204 for further information.

4 sunday

Rolling Event until 7th June spring "re-opening" exhibition at inchmore gallery tuesday - saturday 10am - 5pm and by appointment. for more info visit www.inchmoregallery.co.uk which will be updated daily.

APRIL 2014 29 tuesday occasional cabaret presents ‘the taking of zena charbonne’ @ strathpeffer pavilion for more information visit www.strathpefferpavilion.org infifa ‘vivan las antipodas!’ 7:15pm at eden court cinema and followed by informal post film discussion. for more info visit www.invernessfilmfans.org groam house museum lecture series - from neolithic times to the present via george bain: ian begg 7:30pm, seaforth lodge, station square, fortrose. £4 / members & students £2 • www.groamhouse.org.uk

inverness ramblers loch gynach and craeg bheag. 9 miles. meet 9am highland council car park. contact 01463 236204 for further information.

7 wednesday free talk ‘making life changes’ by sheena taylor 7pm - 8pm at riverdale centre, church street, inverness. call 01463 231840 • info@healingconnections.com

NAIRN Nairn Community & Arts Centre Your local venue for films, shows, concerts, and parties. Wide range of activities for all ages.

MAY 2014 2 friday howard marks, aka mr nice, brings his new spokenword show: ‘scholar, smuggler, prisoner, scribe’ @ strathpeffer pavillion 8pm. £15. 01997 420124. visit www.strathpefferpavilion.org bl'azz presents: 'blues buskers' from 8pm at the innes bar, 61 innes street, inverness. free admission. for more info call nigel on 01463 221460 or email nigel.mackenzie@blueorg.com bear’s den @ ironworks 7:30pm. £8. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com mahler players present ‘mahler in miniature’ 8pm at nairn community & arts centre. call 01667 453476 or visit www.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk

admin@spotlighton.co.uk

MAY EVENTS Friday 2nd ..............................................Mahler Players present “Mahler in Miniature” 8.00pm Thursday 8th............................................... Jazz Nairn presents “Rossano Sportiello” – 7.30pm Friday 9th ................................................... Royal String Quartet Saturday 17th.......................................................Table Top Sale Friday 23rd May ........................... Phil Cunningham & Aly Bain Friday 30th May ......Cinema Nairn – “Three Colours Red” (15) Saturday 31st.................................Referendum Debate 7.30pm For further details, telephone 01667 453476, e-mail info@nairncc.co.uk or check out our website at www.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk

tel: 01309 690063

May 2014 - page 15

SPOTLIGHT Circulation 78,446 SPP Group Circulation 35,456

Press & Journal Circulation 26,607

Spotlight has 6 magazines and is distributed by the Post Office to over 78,000 homes and businesses throughout Moray and Inverness, with an estimated readership of 149,700. †â€

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8 thursday bl'azz presents: 'gentle jazz' from 1pm at the town house, inverness. admission £5. for info call nigel on 01463 221460 / nigel.mackenzie@blueorg.com jazz nairn presents ‘rossano sportiello’ 7:30pm at nairn community & arts centre. call 01667 453476 or visit www.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk

9 friday

lecture at smithton free church, inverness. new members welcome. non members £5. email membership sec drmaryharrison2@yahoo.com or davidmartin30@hotmail.com (07595 219308) chair give blood @ strathpeffer pavillion 5pm - 7:30 pm. for more info call 01997 420124 or visit www.blood.nhs.uk • www.strathpefferpavilion.org ethan johns @ ironworks 7:30pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com

fashion show @ strathpeffer pavillion 7:30pm. £5. organised by friends of the pavilion and featuring fashions by perfect dress, victoriana and tiny togz. wine and soft drinks available.01997 420124. visit www.strathpefferpavilion.org music nairn presents royal string quartet 7:30pm at nairn community & arts centre. for details call 01667 455701 or visit www.musicnairn.org.uk

16 friday

10 saturday

festival of museums - wolf of badenoch’s banquet 7pm - 11pm, highland folk museum, kingussie road, newtonmore. dine, if you dare, with one of the most evil and bloodthirsty villains in scottish history! for more information visit www.highlandfolk.com or www.festivalofmuseums.com

dingwall choral society @ strathpeffer pavillion 7:30pm. visit www.strathpefferpavilion.org for more info or call 01997 420124 inverness ramblers fortrose to hillockhead circular. 9 miles. meet 9am highland council car park. contact 01463 236204 for further information. doors alive - tribute act @ ironworks 7:30pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com

11 sunday moray & highland junior orienteering championships 10am - 12:30pm culbin forest (wellhill) open to all under 17s in moray & highland regions. full details at www.moravianorienteering.org great glen walking club achederson, aultgowrie to hangman's cottage. 9 miles. depart 9am from highland council car park. contact 01463 236204 for further information.

13 tuesday inverness horticultural society: george pirie - begonias and david munro - dahlias and chrysanthemums 7:30pm, mackenzie centre, culduthel road, inverness. for information call valerie on 01456 486656 or email v.weir656@btinternet.com pink castle philosophy club lgbt - friendly group 'local, global or somewhere in between?' 7:30pm, riverside lounge, glen mhor hotel, ness bank, inverness. for more info visit www.pinkcastle.eu

14 wednesday cinema night - ‘the day the earth stood still’ (1951) @ strathpeffer pavillion for more info call 01997 420124 • www.strathpefferpavilion.org social diners - why eat alone? 7pm for 7:30pm dining at the lovat arms, beauly. for information and to book call gill on 01349 877061

15 thursday highland decorative & fine arts society (hdfas) ‘my pick of the pots’ by lars tharp 2pm - 3:30pm. nadfas

page 18 - May 2014

men’s health group meeting 9:30am, inshes church. open to the public, preceded by refreshments. incl. a talk on physical activity, weight and healthy living by mr dan jenkins, heath promotion department, nhs highland.

16 friday - 17 saturday

17 saturday plant sale 10am - 12pm at st. andrews inverness cathedral. selling garden bedding plants and more. the tea room will be open. ranger walk: monster minibeasts - life in the pond at abriachan 2pm - 4pm meet at the abriachan forest car park. adults £3, conc £2, family £8. call katy martin on 01463 255291 or rangers.inverness@highland.gov.uk tales and trails @ the highlanders’ museum, fort george drop-in storytelling sessions 11am - 12:30pm & 1pm 2:30pm. craft activity 3pm - 4:30pm (booking for craft advised) take part in museum trails, dress up as a soldier & handle real war artefacts. for more info call 0131 3107803 • lynsey@thehighlandersmuseum.com or visit www.thehighlandersmuseum.com creative moray firth's craft, photography & food fair 10am - 4:30pm, mercure hotel, church street, inverness. full of great gifts and will have a food area enticing people to local goods. all stalls highlight the great talent from across the moray firth area. the counterfeit sixties @ ironworks 7:30pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com table top sale at nairn community & arts centre. call 01667 453476 or www.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk great glen walking club poca buidhe on loch na hoidhche by loch maree. 12.5 miles. depart 8am from highland council car park. contact 01463 236204 for further information.

17 saturday - 18 sunday cairngorms nature festival events and experiences for all the family. nature watching, guided walks, arts & crafts and landrover safaris & much more from the hubs at glenmore lodge and muir of dinnet. for more info visit www.cairngorms.co.uk

tel: 01309 690063

admin@spotlighton.co.uk

18 sunday charity garden plant sale at foulis castle - in aid of marie curie cancer care 11am - 5pm, evanton, rossshire. entry and car parking is free. teas in the castle. donations prior to the event welcome. for info email panny@logie.co.uk

Fun for all the family!

20 tuesday highland literary salon 7:30pm, glen mhor hotel, inverness guest speaker: david hewson for further details visit www.highlandlitsalon.com

21 wednesday

Gordon Castle

ranger walk: rhoddy pulling at foyers 2pm - 4pm. meet at the foyers shop car park. adults £3, conc £2, family £8. call katy martin on 01463 255291 or email rangers.inverness@highland.gov.uk

HIGHLAND GAMES & COUNTRY FAIR

23 friday phil cunningham & aly bain at nairn community & arts centre. for details call 01667 453476 or visit www.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk

24 saturday hooley in the highlands @ strathpeffer pavillion 1pm - midnight. country music festival. for more info call 01997 420124 or visit www.strathpefferpavilion.org inverness ramblers - walk 1 sgurr dubh mor &sgurrnan eag ( cuillin ridge). 8.7 miles. meet 8am highland council car park. contact 01463 236204 inverness ramblers - walk 2 cawdor to nairn by river nairn. 9.5 miles. meet 9am highland council car park. contact 01463 236204 for further information. inverness abc boxing tournament: north of scotland select vs north of england @ ironworks 7pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com

25 sunday great glen walking club dunmore / loch nam bonnach (beauly). 8 miles. depart 9am from highland council car park. contact 01463 236204 'bands of gold' @ ironworks 6pm - 10.30pm. free entry. wedding fair with a difference, showcasing musical talent, from pipers and acoustic guitarists to funky ceilidh bands. exhibitors include jewellery and dress designers, wedding photographers, venues, caterers and specialist printers. come and enjoy a glass of fizz, some wedding cake, and get inspired!

27 tuesday groam house museum lecture series - the blackisle railway: jack kernahan 7:30pm, seaforth lodge, station square, fortrose. £4. members and students £2 • www.groamhouse.org.uk

28 wednesday the culbin forest run 6:45pm culbin forest (wellhill) the 15th staging of this ever-popular family event with races for under 12s, under 16s and seniors. event no 2 in the moray forest runs series.

admin@spotlighton.co.uk

SUNDAY MAY 18TH 2014 10.30am - 5pm More Space so even more to do, see and enjoy!

Catch up with all the latest news and buy discounted tickets on-line www.gordoncastlehighlandgames.co.uk social diners - why eat alone? 12:30pm at carnegie lodge, tain. for information and to book call gill on 01349 877061

30 friday cinema nairn: ‘three colours red’ 7:30pm at nairn community & arts centre. for more information visit cinemanairn.blogspot.co.uk mànran @ strathpeffer pavillion 8pm. £16. more info at 01997 420124 • www.strathpefferpavilion.org

31 saturday baby & children's market 10am - 1pm at millburn academy, inverness. 1000s of pre-loved items all under one roof! clothing, toys, books, furniture, prams, carseats, garden toys and footwear all at bargain prices direct from the owners. adult entry £1 (under 16s free) • info@happymumsmarket.co.uk men’s health stand eastgate centre. cake walk and story - sanquhar loch, forres meet 10am at highland council, glenurquhart rd, inverness. call guy on 07724 992790 or visit www.guyandjocelyn.org referendum debate 7:30pm at nairn community & arts centre. for details call 01667 453476 or visit www.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk great glen walking club balmacara - kyle of lochalsh & loch scalpaidh. 8 miles. depart 8am from highland council car park. contact 01463 236204

tel: 01309 690063

May 2014 - page 19

SUPPORT HOUSING FOR A HAPPIER FUTURE Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association offer services in the community for those who feel they could benefit from a move to a new home with support.

Hanover has a wide range of supported accommodation available across the area. If you know of anyone who may benefit from the support and security of living in high quality, affordable supported housing, we may be able to help.

Who are we?

We’re one of Scotland’s largest specialist housing providers for older people and people with disabilities. We’re a registered social landlord and not-for-profit housing association. Our properties and services are available to everyone, regardless of their income or status. We keep our rent levels affordable; this along with the ability to apply for housing benefit from the local authority, if applicable, enables any person over 60 years of age, and in some cases younger, to live in our affordable accommodation.

We work in close partnership with local authorities to ensure the best care and support packages are available for all of our clients and, in some places, we also provide innovative and flexible care packages ourselves, based onsite.

Our properties We offer sheltered, very sheltered and amenity housing throughout the Highlands, Moray and Aberdeenshire. Usually consisting of modern one or two bedroom flats or cottages, they offer a wealth of features which allow people to live as independently as possible for as long as possible.

There are a number of extra benefits too, for example: UÊ iVÌ ÊÌ ÊV Õ ÌÞÊ> >À ÊÃiÀÛ ViÃÆÊ UÊ } ÞÊÌÀ> i`]Ê Ã ÌiÊÃÌ>vvÊ i LiÀÃÆÊ> `Ê UÊ+Õ> ÌÞÊ>`>«Ì>Ì ÃÊÌ Ê > iÊ`> ÞÊ Û }Êi>Ã iÀ° We’ve can supply copies of our leaflet describing our services in more detail and would be delighted if you could pass them on to anyone you feel may benefit from the services we offer.

We’d also welcome the chance to discuss with you how we can help you in more detail, as well as arrange for you to take a look at our services in action. If this is of an interest please contact us so we can discuss further.

To arrange this, or to obtain copies of the leaflet, please get in touch with us on 01343 548585 or email northinfo@hsha.org.uk.

It's all about you!!

Quality independent living High quality housing for the over 60s that lets you keep your independent life.

We currently have properties available GPS SFOU )PVTJOH CFOFmU NBZ CF available to aid residents meet the cost of their living.

Interested???

For more information call:

01343 548585 email northinfo@hsha.org.uk or go to www.hsha.org.uk

Hanover (Scotland) (S Housing Association Ltd – a Scottish Charity no SCO14738

recipe

Chef’s Confidential Finnan Haddie Fish Cakes Serves 4

Ingredients: 1lb Cooked Finnan Haddock 8oz mashed potatoes 1oz butter 3oz breadcrumbs or fish dressing 2 hard boiled eggs 1 beaten egg Salt & black pepper to taste Fat for frying

Ingredients: Flake the haddock removing any bones and skin, chop fish and hard boiled eggs. Melt butter in a saucepan, add the fish, eggs, potato, salt and pepper. Stir well adding a little milk to bind if necessary. Turn mixture out on to work surface and allow to cool.

Shape the mixture into 8 flat, round shapes on a lightly floured board. Dip in beaten egg and coat with breadcrumbs. Fry in hot fat for approximately 5 minutes each side.

Serve with a nice crisp salad with a fresh tomato sauce.

David Bell – Head Chef Brockie’s Lodge Hotel. Tel: 01463 741257

22

5 Comfortable Centrally-Heated En-suite Bedrooms with Sky TV, Hospitality tray, fridge and hair dryer available Bar open all day with Sky and BT Sport channels available Complimentary WiFi in public areas

MEALS SERVED DAILY from 12 noon to 8.30pm

SUNDAY CARVERY SERVED from 12.30 to 3pm

TRADITIONAL SCOTTISH HIGH TEA SERVED from 4pm to 8pm

Home Baking.

Locally sourced fresh produce used.

Exciting new menu now in place complimented by selection of fine wines from various parts of the world.

A new Malts list is also now available with a range of more than 25 single Malt Whiskies served in a generous Highland measure of 35cl.

Families welcome.

Children's play area with bouncy castle.

See website for details of all special offers www.brockieslodgehotel.co.uk

Brockie’s Lodge Hotel . Kiltarlity . By Beauly . IV4 7HW . Tel: 01463 741257 . Email: info@brockieslodgehotel.

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Luxury Cruising is as it says - pure luxury.

Generally the ships are smaller, with room for hundreds of guests rather than thousands, and the crew-to-guest ratio is higher, giving superb service with a relaxed smile. The smaller ships are agile enough to visit more remote and lesser-known ports to bring you closer to some of the world’s great destinations. They can sail up narrow waterways into the heart of a city, they can navigate around tiny islands and they can tie up right at the dockside while others have to anchor offshore. In the world of luxury cruising, less is more‌considerably more.

Many luxury cruise lines offer ‘all-inclusive’ cruises, including gourmet dining, wine, Champagne, spirits, beers, speciality coffees and teas, and soft drinks. In-suite dining is also included and your suite’s bar and refrigerator will be stocked with a complimentary range of your preferred wines and spirits. Onboard gratuities are included, and the important tangible benefits including the sophisticated atmosphere and genuinely warm personal service. Luxury Cruising ships can offer all-suite accommodation with ocean-views, many include a private veranda.

Voyages cover the globe, from the familiar shores of the Mediterranean to the out-of-this-world Arctic and Antarctic landscapes. You can cast off from your customary way of life and set a course for travel on a grand scale. Immerse yourself in the countries and cultures of a region that fascinates you. Explore and experience a continent that holds a special allure. You can circle South America, sail around Europe or sweep across hemispheres between Asia and Australia. On a single sailing you can visit must-see cities, travel to far flung destinations and admire natural world wonders.

It’s all about quality and service – unpack your case once and your possessions travel with you wherever you go – it is a huge advantage and a great experience.

24

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wind-power company, seeks investors for renewables projects secured by the UK Government Feed-in Tariff.

Minimum amount 5k, no maximum amount. Excellent returns for 20 year FiT programme, or for shorter periods if preferred. Corporate and personal guarantees provided.

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Are you cold in the winter, have tariff for their “normal” supply uncontrollable heating, or just fed (over 30% in some cases ) for the up with your bills? If so we could likes of have the answer! Many hundreds cooking, of people in television , Scotland have lighting and now benefited the additional from our evening German heating heating, often systems, simple required to install, they provide a cosy when storage heaters run short powerful heat, economically. on charge.

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Many dual meter householders are unaware that they pay an enhanced

Existing LPG, oil or gas system owners could save by using just one of our heaters as a supplement to their existing system, enabling them to turn off their primary heating for a much longer period over the the spring, summer and autumn, or to resolve cold spots, they could be the answer.

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Elsco Heating are the only Scottish based specialist in this type of heating, covering all of Scotland, from Elgin & Glasgow.

For a FREE Information pack and more details go to:www.elsco.co.uk or phone us on 01343 819676

recipe

Chef’s Confidential Chilli meatballs with linguine pasta Ingredients 125grams of minced beef 125grams of minced pork Tablespoon of toasted bread crumbs 1 small mild chilli (chopped) Bunch of fresh basil Grated Parmesan cheese 2 cloves of crushed garlic Half a diced onion 2 sage leaves (chopped) 1 tin of chopped tomatoes 100grams of linguine pasta Olive oil First make the meatballs Put the minced pork, beef, bread crumbs, chilli, 1 table spoon of parmesan, 1 of the crushed garlic cloves, 6 basil leaves (torn up by hand) and salt and pepper in a bowl and mix till all combined.

Roll into 4 centimetre size balls.

In a pre-heated frying pan brown the meat balls in some olive oil. Take out of the pan and set to one side.

Add some more olive oil to the pan with the onions, sage, remaining garlic and another 6 basil leaves.

Fry till they start to colour then add the tin of chopped tomatoes.

Bring to the boil then put the meatballs back in and cook (they should take about 15 to 20 minutes.

While they are cooking boil the linguine according to the packet.

Season the tomato sauce and add a little water if it gets to thick.

Check the meatballs are cooked through.

Drain the pasta and split on two plates.

Arrange the meatballs on top and spoon over the sauce.

Finish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and some torn up basil.

26

Recipe supplied by Head Chef, Steven Munro

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CONTINENTAL & SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

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20 Clifton Rd, Lossiemouth IV31 6DJ

Exploring and managing your life

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ÂŁ17.50

For further details contact Ramona on:

115

per person

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La Caverna Caverna LOSSIEMOUTH

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Hawco Motoring services for disabled people in Moray and the Highlands At Hawco Group we have over 60 years of experience of looking after the motoring needs of our customers. For both Volkswagen and Audi drivers we aim to provide a reliable local service.

It’s always our priority to provide the very best service to disabled people in the region, many of whom rely on their vehicle as a means of getting out and about. We’re always delighted to support the National charity, Motability, which is designed to allow people of all ages to use some or all of their allowance to lease a car.

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With the contract hire option Motability customers can lease a car and use it as their own. All the admin is taken care of and included in the package; insurance, servicing, breakdown assistance, etc.

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Approved Used Volkswagens from Hawco

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Hawco

48 Harbour Road, Inverness. 01463 236111 6 Wards Road, Elgin. 01343 544977

T O N Y C H R I S TO P H E R 29 CASTLE ST. INVERNESS

rea Ch so air n or able to re ful ra nt l ti te at me s p art

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2622 Highland Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force Regiment based at RAF Lossiemouth want to hear from those aged 18-50 who would like to play a vital role within the UKs Defence Force. The part-time Gunners of the Highland Squadron are trained in a wide range of Military skills such as field-craft, navigation, weapon handling, first aid, tactics, how to operate as a Team and much more including the opportunity to participate in adventurous training activities in the UK and Abroad.

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Search - RAF Reserves Online: Tel: 0845 6069069

May Day & Beyond Sales - Special offers and Price Reductions throughout the store

Huge Stock many at discounted prices

1/2 PRICE or LESS

Take a look at the price of our divans - we sell at

ÂŁ299

price includes two free drawers and a free headboard worth ÂŁ200

advertised on the tv at ÂŁ799 exactly the same bed! photo for representative purposes only

GIFTS

CARPETS

SOFAS

BLINDS BEDS

Only While stocks last!

First come first served

Open from 12-4.00pm on 5th May (May Day)

FURNITURE

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From switches to lighting & everything in between.

Unit B, 10 Harbour Road, Inverness, IV1 1SY

01463 701128