Spotlight Lewis Dec 18

Cover DEC 18.pdf

1

07/11/2018

21:41

THE NORTH’S FAVOURITE FREE WEE MAG

DECEMBER 2018

SpotLIGHT LEWIS & HARRIS

autoparts dec 18.pdf

1

12/11/2018

14:18

THE WESTERN ISLES PREMIER PARTS RETAILER AUTOPARTS, ISLAND RD, STORNOWAY HS1 2RD Dfe[Xp kf =i`[Xp /Xd $ ,%*'gd JXkli[Xp 0Xd Æ ,gd K1 '(/,( .' -0*0 <1 jXc\j7Xgj$[`i\Zk%Zf%lb nnn%XlkfgXikj$jkfiefnXp%Zfd =`e[ lj fe

SpotLIGHTon .co.uk

What’s on, Clubs, Eating out, Trades Listings and much more...

Clubs and Societies AN LANNTAIR YOUTH DRAMA CLUB Sat (P1 – P4), 10.15am – 11am; (P5 – P7), 11.15 am – 12pm & Wed (S1 – S6) 4pm – 5pm (term time only), Kenneth Street Stornoway. Run by talented actress Rachel Kennedy who has trained in both theatre & screen acting. Admission £3 (£2.50 with family membership).

Call 01851 708480 or email at info@lanntair.com www.lanntair.com/events/event/ saturday-drama-club

followed by light lunch & social gathering to share & work on personal projects (12pm - 2pm).

Free & open to anyone with an interest in art. Call 01851 820745. www.backfrc.org.uk BACK FOOTBALL & RECREATION CLUB Tues, Thurs & Fri (Main office), 9am to 5pm. Community Centre Upper Coll Isle of Lewis. Call Main Office on 01851 820745 or 07497 925905 or email at backfrc@gmail.com

AUTISM EILEANAN SIAR BACK PRIMARY FOOOTBALL (SUPPORT GROUP) DEVELOPMENT CLUB 2nd Fri of month, 10am - 2pm.

Mon, 6pm - 7pm & 7pm Lewis Retirement Centre, 8.15pm (term time only), Back Bayhead. Local Autism & Football & Recreation Club. Their Additional Needs Support aim is to encourage as many Group, open to everyone who is children as possible in the affected Autism Spectrum Broadbay area to improve their Conditions. Welcomes parents & fitness & general health, learn carers of children & adults with football skills & life lessons other additional support needs. through sport. The club is now Call 07444 425 322 or email at full & is currently operating a Ad rates - Lewis.qxp 12/11/2018 09:19 Page 1 autism.eliean.siar@gmail.com waiting list. However, spaces are available throughout the year BACK ART TOGETHER pending a small wait. Call Teri on 10.30am - 12pm. Each session 01851 820745 or email at will start with a workshop/demo backfrc@gmail.com on a different skill or art form, BOOK CLUB (BACK FRC) Sample one-off advertising Once a month, usually the last rates (colour advert) Thurs of month, Back Football & Rereation Club. New members Box £46 are welcome any time. Books Big box £74 are provided courtesy of the ¼ page £120 library reading group scheme. ½ page £209 Those interested are asked to Full page £399 note that the location for the next few months is different & should Discounts available for series inquire. Call Teri on 01851 bookings and for black and 820745 or backfrc@gmail.com. white www.backfrc.org.uk

Publisher:

Winterburn Media Ltd Unit 14, Horizon Scotland, Enterprise Park, Forres, Moray, IV36 2AB (01309) 690063

All material 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 publisherʼs prior consent, will be considered a breach of copyright.

page 4 - December 2018

HEBRIDEAN WALKING CLUB 1st Thurs of the month, 7.30pm, the Lanntair,Venue: An Lanntair City: Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.

New walkers of all levels welcome. Further information from 'Anne' on 07828 114143.

Call 01851 708480 or email at info@lanntair.com www.facebook.com/Hebrideanwalkingclub ISLAND ARCHERS Wed, 7pm - 9pm. near Stornoway, on the Isle of Lewis.

Shooting recurve target archery

year round, Further information visit www.islandarchers.org

for ages 18mth - 5yrs provided.

Call 01851 820745 www.backfrc.org.uk

LEWIS & HARRIS ACCORDION & FIDDLE CLUB 1st Thurs of Month, 8pm, The Caladh Inn, 11 James Street, Stornoway. Created in 1994 by a group of musicians who wanted to promote traditional Scottish music. Call 01851 704870 or email at dmaciver.ivorhil@btinternet.com www.facebook.com/LewisAndHarrisAccordionAndFiddleClub LEWIS & HARRIS RIDING CLUB Tues (weekly club night), 7pm, 6 Gearraidh Ghuirm, Upper Coll, Isle of Lewis. Founded in 1986, access to a new purpose-built indoor school at Lochside Arena has enabled the organisation of shows, dressage leagues & showjumping leagues. We are an extremely friendly, supportive club of mixed riding abilities & are always delighted to welcome new members along. Call 07796 504107 or email at shona@shore-print.co.uk www.facebook.com/lewisandharrisridingclub NESS HISTORICAL SOCIETY (Mar–Oct) daily 10am – 4pm; (Nov–Feb) daily 12pm – 4pm.

Cross School, North Dell, Ness, Isle of Lewis. Call 01851 810377 or email at office@cenonline.org www.cenonline.org POUND (CARDIO WORKOUT GROUP) North Lochs Community Centre, Leurbost Lochs, UK Pound is a cardio workout using lightly weighted drumsticks. Great music & a fun atmosphere.

Adaptable to all fitness levels & open to any age over 15.

Booking essential. Call 07917 755459. www.facebook.com/ PoundwithFitBeat RAINY DAY BIKE CLUB Thurs, 12pm - 3pm (term time only Oct - Jun), Back FRC, Community Centre. Parent & Toddler Group, designed to let the little ones practice their bike skills safe away from the winter weather. Balance bikes suitable

tel: 01309 690063

STORNOWAY ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY 1st Thurs of month, 7.30pm, the Caladh Inn, James Street, Stornaway. Email at sasastronomer@ googlemail.com www.stornowayastro.org/ STORNOWAY BADMINTION CLUB Thurs, 7pm - 9pm, Lewis Sports Centre. Minimum age 16.

Contact Via Facebook. m.me/StornowayBadminton STORNOWAY SEA ANGLING CLUB The Stornoway Sea Angling Club is one of the largest & best known clubs in the UK. Offers regular fishing, live music & entertainment events, all held throughout the year. The Club, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2013, owns its own 34ft charter boat & 18ft fishing boat - both of which are available for private hire. The Club is also regarded as Stornoway's main Sports Bar. Stornoway Sea Angling Club, Shell Street, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis. Call 01851 702021 or email at sysac@hotmail.co.uk sysacmembership@hotmail.co.uk THE 'WELL' (THE SHED PROJECT) Mon, 10am - 4pm, Wed, 10am 4pm, 11 Francis Street, Stornoway. An adult drop in centre offering a safe place for anyone whose life is affected by their own or someone else’s drug or alcohol use. Call 01851704557 or email at admin@theshedproject.org.uk www.theshedproject.org.uk

PLEASE NOTE: Details of Clubs & Societies are published on a rotational basis.

admin@winterburnmedia.co.uk

The Editor

Welcome to the first ever SpotLight on Lewis and Harris.

Our company has been producing monthly SpotLight magazines across the North of Scotland for some 10 years now and are keen for as many communities as possible to enjoy this free publication. You will notice that SpotLight has been posted through your door and this is one of the unique elements of the SpotLight community magazines - they are all delivered by the Royal Mail through every door in Lewis and Harris.

SpotLight is a monthly magazine and is normally delivered in the last week of each month. The ethos of SpotLight is to provide people with both an interesting read but also details of getting involved with community life through our listings of Clubs and Societies and What’s On.

PUBLISHER ..............David Nelmes ADVERTISING ..............Susan Innes PRODUCTION .........Linda J Donald .............................Helen R Ferguson ART & DESIGN ..............Flo Skinner Corriegarth hotel Nov 18.pdf 1 ACCOUNTS ..................Alan Radley

SpotLight is a free independant publication created by a small family company based in Forres which, at its heart, seeks to encourage engagement with community and we welcome articles and information many of which will be printed for free.

We are especially grateful to those businesses who have chosen to support us in this first issue and we look forward to providing an efficient and cost effective advertising opportunity for small, medium and large businesses alike. If you run a business yourself and wish to promote your services or products to every single household on the island then give us a ring on 01309 690063 and ask for David or Susan.

We hope you enjoy your new community magazine!!

January Issue Deadlines 26/10/2018

09:08

Editorial - Thursday 29/11/18 Advertising - Tuesday 04/12/18

THE CORRIEGARTH Situated in the heart of the residential Crown area of Inverness, just 5 minutes walk from the High Street, Eastgate Centre, train and bus stations. We have 9 beautifully decorated en-suite bedrooms, a cosy restaurant and a vibrant bar with sports on TV. We serve freshly prepared food all day, every day, and can boast a fantastic and friendly customer service every time.

Christmas Parties Lunch £19.50 Dinner £24.50 Party Nights £32.50 (with DJ)

Christmas Day Lunch 12pm-3.30pm £59.50 (£15 under 12s) Reservations essential

5-7 Heathmount Road, Inverness IV2 3JU W ʛ H LQIR#FRUULHJDUWK FRP

SpotLIGHTon .co.uk

What’s on, Clubs, Eating out, Trades Listings and much more...

Pastoral Le er & Church Meetings The Stranger Some years ago as a Church Camp Leader I took part in a “find the Leader” exercise for the children. I dressed up as a shabby vagrant. With my black plastic bin liner containing a bundle of clothes, and wearing an old tatty coat, false beard and wig, I lay on a park bench near a supermarket. Lots of people went into the supermarket but took the long way round rather than the much shorter path that went past this bench! I was a stranger, who appeared to be in a bad way, near a well-stocked supermarket used by lots of nicely dressed people, who simply ignored me!

In the Bible we read that long ago God stated, "when a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God" (Leviticus 19 verses 33-34, ESV). It was not enough to do the stranger no harm; they must also do him good, treat him indeed as they treated their own people.

Ultimately this was a reflection of how God had treated them - a far cry from the God too often caricatured as a cruel

tyrant - “for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God." Having experienced the redeeming kindness of God they should have been the first to show kindness to the stranger.

In Luke 10 verses 29-37 (ESV) we read about a lawyer who out of an inflated sense of his own ability asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbour?” Jesus answered by telling about a man who had been mugged by thieves and left badly injured. A priest and a Levite came across him. You would expect them to attend to him, yet they both passed by on the other side! Then along came a Samaritan. He would have been despised by the first two, yet it was he who attended to him and made provision for his future care. After telling the story, Jesus turned the lawyer’s question around and against him - “Now, which of these three do you think was neighbour to the man who fell among the thieves?”

Our attitude to the stranger must not begin with “who is my neighbour?” but with “who must I be a neighbour to?”

We do not have the liberty of choosing them; they are chosen for us. We have people around us who have fallen on hard times - a widow with young children, a pregnant teenager, an

Back Free Church Sundays 10.30am and 6pm, Youth Fellowship (Hall), 7.30pm. Gaelic 12pm Sunday, Midweek meeting, 7.30pm Wednesday.

Tel: 01851 820 217. For more information email imacleod.back@btinternet.com or visit www.backfreechurch.co.uk Free Church Continuing Sunday worship at 11am and 6.30pm with School from 10.50am to 11.30am, Midweek Meetings on Thursdays and Saturdays at 7.30pm. All held at Church at Sandwick Road, Stornoway HS1 0AD. Contact Rev Graeme Craig on 01851 700298 Free Presbyterian Church of Scotland Sundays 11am and 6.30pm and Thursdays at 7pm. 23 Matheson Road Stornoway, HS1 2LR. Contact ev James R Tallach on 01851 702501 or email jrtall@fpchurch.org.uk Garrabost Free Church Sundays, English service, 10.30am and 6pm (Sunday School during morning service),Gaelic service at 12pm.

Tel: 01851 870411 or 07747 098828. Email garrabostfree@gmail.com High Free Church Stornoway Sunday Services held in Stornoway Primary School at 11am and 6.30pm. Sunday School for P1 - S3 and a crèche which both meet during the morning service. Midweek meetings held at Retirement Centre Bayhead, Tuesdays and Saturdays (English

page 6 -December 2018

alcoholic, an unemployed family, the housebound elderly, and many others.

Our first thoughts must not be “which of these is my neighbour?”, but rather “how can I be a neighbour to them?”

Over 2000 years ago God came into this world as a Stranger. Jesus was born in an outhouse, into a poor family, and grew up to be the most remarkable man who ever lived. He had come from heaven to earth, to save sinners. “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10 verse 10, ESV).

But, sadly,“His own people did not receive him” (John 1 verse 11, ESV).

This Stranger was eventually crucified.

But the Stranger will return! Not as a Stranger but as the King in his glory, to sit as the righteous Judge! His judgment and verdict will take account of more than what we believed; it will include what we have, or have not, done, as we read in Matthew 25 verses 31-46.

How we will spend eternity is connected to how we treat the stranger (and especially the Stranger)!

Rev James MacIver Stornaway Free Church Isle of Lewis

Prayer) and Gaelic Prayer on Thursdays all at 7.30pm. Contact Rev Hugh Ferrier on 07981082012 or email h121ferrier@googlemail.com Martins Memorial Church Sundays 11am and 6.30pm, Midweek meeting at 7.30pm. Tel: 01851 700820. For more information email enquiries@martinsmemorial.org.uk or visit www.martinsmemorial.org.uk New Wine Church Sundays 11am at Lewis Retirement Centre Bayhead and at 7pm at Father's House Point Street, Stornoway. Midweek Meeting at 7.30pm, Father's House. For further information email pastor@newwinechurch.com or visit www.newwinechurch.com Our Holy Redeemers Church Sundays 11am and 5pm (Harris), Saturday Vigil, 6pm. Contact Fr Roddy Johnston on 01851 702070 or 0775 924 965. For more information email stornoway@rcdai.org.uk or visit www.ourholyredeemerstornoway.uk

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 to amend existing details, please email linda@winterburnmedia.co.uk

tel: 01309 690063

admin@winterburnmedia.co.uk

Traigh Mhor Pony Trekking 1RUWK 7ROVWD ,VOH RI /HZLV Â&#x2021;

EX

TEN

N S I V E C O C K TA I L M E

U

www.tolsta41.com

t 8F PòFS EJòFSFOU USFLT BOE IBDLT Please see facebook SBOHJOH GSPN NJOT UP IPVST for upcoming GPS DIJMESFO BEVMUT Santa Trots t 8F DBO BMTP PòFS øBU BOE KVNQJOH SJEJOH & Festive Season MFTTPOT PO PVS RVJFU DSPGU GPS CFHJOOFST Rides novices & intermediate level riders.

Taking bookings for Pre-Christmas lunch and dinner 12-14 Francis St, Stornoway HS1 2XB T: 01851 7032501 09/11/2018 call to Ministers.pdf www.countyhotelstornoway.co.uk

13:12

Call out to Church Ministers Are you a church minister or leader of a local church?

If so, we invite you to present a regular pastoral letter which will be printed in SpotLight.

We aim to have a rota of at least six ministers meaning that the contribution would only be required twice a year.

Please phone: 01309 690063 or email: linda@winterburnmedia.co.uk to obtain more details

SpotLIGHTon .co.uk

What’s on, Clubs, Eating out, Trades Listings and much more...

call to MPs.pdf 1 09/11/2018 14:22 Parliament Blog & Tide Times

Call out to MP's and MSP's Are you an MP or MSP? If so, we invite you to present a regular “parliamentary blog" which will be printed in the monthly SpotLight.

We would like to include all Parliamentary Representatives.

Please phone: 01309 690063 or email: linda@winterburnmedia.co.uk to obtain more details

LOW TIDE TIMES FOR STORNAWAY IN DECEMBER

Walking on the beach should be possible 2 hours either side of these times. For all beaches to the south, timings are approx 27mins earlier 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

SA SU M TU W TH F SA

AM

PM

07:30 08:51 09:57 10:50 11:36 00:03 00:41 01:18

20:36 21:42 22:36 23:21 12:19 12:59 13:36

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

SU M TU W TH F SA SU M TU W TH F

AM

PM

01:52 02:27 03:01 03:37 04:15 04:59 05:53 07:03 08:25 09:32 10:24 11:11 11:55

14:13 14:49 15:27 16:06 16:49 17:39 18:39 19:51 21:00 21:56 22:43 23:27

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

SA SU M TU W TH F SA SU M

AM

PM

00:10 00:53 01:36 02:20 03:06 03:53 04:44 05:42 06:49 08:07

12:39 13:23 14:09 14:56 15:45 16:38 17:36 18:41 19:53 21:05

We have 14 en-suite chalets all with their own door leading outside. This gives you the freedom to come and go as you please.

We offer special rates if you are staying over at an event held within the motel.

We also offer special room rates if you have a loved one staying in Raigmore Hospital, just mention when checking in.

The Raigmore Motel offers you a warm and friendly welcome from the Capital of the Scottish Highlands

There is free WIFI within the Motel bar password on request.

Raigmore Motel Old Perth Rd, Inverness IV2 3RH E: raigmoremotel@hotmail.co.uk

T: 01463 221546

Highland Fuels Jan 17.pdf

1

14/12/2016

12:00

SUPPORTING YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY FROM OUR INVERNESS AND HUNTLY DEPOTS

Home Heating Oil Marine Gas Oil Tractor Diesel Commercial Fuels Oil Storage Tanks Call us for a free quote on 0800 224224 www.highlandfuels.co.uk

SpotLIGHTon .co.uk

What’s on, Clubs, Eating out, Trades Listings and much more...

Useful Information

Local & Bank Holidays and Special Days 1st Sunday in Advent Hanukkah (J) 2nd Sunday in Advent 3rd Sunday in Advent Shortest Day Christmas Day Boxing Day Hogmanay New Year’s Day

Sun 2nd Dec 2018 Sun 2nd Dec 2018 Sun 9th Dec 2018 Sun 16th Dec 2018 Fri 21st Dec 2018 Tues 25th Dec 2018 Wed 26th Dec 2018 Mon 31st Dec 2018 Tues 1st Jan 2019

New Year’s Day (substitute) Wed 2nd Jan 2019 Epiphany Sun 6th Jan 2019 Burns Night Fri 25th Jan 2019 Valentine’s Day Thurs14th Feb 2019 St David’s Day Fri 1st Mar 2019 Shrove Tuesday Tues 5th Mar 2019 Ash Wednesday Wed 6th Mar2019

(H - Hindu; J - Jewish; M - Muslim; S - Sikh)

School Term Dates

for 2018/2019 (all dates inclusive) Winter Term Ends Fri 21st Dec 2018 Christmas Holiday Starts Sat 22nd Dec 2018 Christmas Holiday Ends Sun 6th Jan 2019 Spring Term Starts Mon 7th Jan 2019 In-Service Day Wed 6th Feb 2019 Mid-Term Holiday Thu 7th Feb 2019 Mid-Term Holiday Mon 11th Feb 2019 Spring Term Ends Fri 29th Mar 2019

Spring Holiday Starts Spring Holiday Ends Summer Term Starts Mid-Term Holiday Mid-Term Holiday Summer Term Ends Summer Holiday Starts

Sat 30th Mar 2019 Sun 14th Apr 2019 Mon 15th Apr 2019 Fri 3rd May 2019 Mon 6th May 2019 Fri 28th Jun 2019 Sat 29th Jun 2019

Useful Contacts Abused Men in Scotland .................................. 0808 800 0024 Alcoholics Anonymous .................................... 0845 769 7555 Breathing Space .................................................. 0800 838587 Caledonian MacBrayne (Ferry) ........................ 01851 702 361 Citizens Advice Bureau (Harris)..........................01859 502431 Citizens Advice Bureau (Stornoway) ................ 01851 705727 Community Learning Hebrides ........................ 01851 822716 Council Offices Sandwick Road, Stornoway.... 01851 703 773 Drug and Alcohol Support Workers .................. 01851 709816 Harris Alcohol & Drugs Action Group .............. 01859 502171 Hebrides Alpha .................................................. 01851 820380 Inverness Airport.................................................01667 464000 Learning Shop .................................................. 01851 822718 Men in Recovery ............................info@meninrecovery.org Narcotics Anonymous ...................................... 0300 999 1212 National Domestic Abuse & Forced Marriage Helpline ..........................................................................0800 027 1234 National Rail Enquiries........................................03457 484950 Police Station (Stornoway) ................................ 01851 702222 Rape Crisis Scotland National Helpline .......... 08088 01 03 02 Salvation Army (Stornoway) ..............................01851 703875 Samaritans ........................................................ 01851 703777 Scottish Domestic Abuse Helpline .................... 0800 0271234 Shelter Scotland .............................................. 0808 800 4444 Stornoway Airport ............................................ 01851 702 256 Tourist Information Office (Stornoway) ............ 01851 703 088 Western Isles Alcohol & Drug Partnership Support Team ........ ..........................................................................01851 762 017 Western Isles Foyer .......................................... 01851 705366 Western Isles Women’s Aid .............................. 01851 704750

page 10 -December 2018

SCHOOLS (Lewis) Back School ...................................................... 01851 820230 Bernera School .................................................. 01851 822892 Breasclete School .............................................. 01851 822890 Laxdale School .................................................. 01851 702171 Lionel School...................................................... 01851 810208 Nicholson Institute.............................................. 01851 707000 Pairc School ...................................................... 01851 822883 Sgoil an Rubha .................................................. 01851 870641 Sgoil an Taobh Siar ............................................ 01851 701602 Sgoil Nan Loch .................................................. 01851 705187 Shawbost School .............................................. 01851 710212 Stornoway Primary ............................................ 01851 703418 Tolsta School ...................................................... 01851 822874 Tong School........................................................ 01851 822873 Uig School .......................................................... 01851 822872 (Harris) Leverhulme Memorial School ............................ 01859 502980 Sir Edward Scott School .................................... 01859 502900 DENTISTS Scalpay Dental Clinic ........................................ 01859 540275 Tarbert Dental Clinic (Harris) ............................ 01859 504100 Western Isle Dental Practice.............................. 01851 707500 VETS Old Mill Veterinary Practice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01851 705900 If you would like to add a contact or if there are any amendments to be made to existing details, please email linda@winterburnmedia.co.uk

tel: 01309 690063

admin@winterburnmedia.co.uk

Smoked Bacon & Mushroom Alfredo Linguine (Serves 4)

IN GREDIENTS 500g dried linguine pasta 1 medium onion - diced 4 cloves garlic - diced 400g closed cup mushrooms - sliced 350ml double cream 50g butter 200g smoked bacon lardons 150g parmesan cheese - grated Sprig of thyme Fresh parsley to garnish - chopped

RE CIPE

Put a pan of water on to boil for your pasta. Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the packet. Put another pan on a medium heat & add bacon lardons.Fry until golden & crispy. Remove bacon and set aside.

Add onions, mushrooms & garlic into the same pan you used for the bacon. Cook until soft & the mushrooms darken in colour.

Add the bacon back into the pan & add the sprig of thyme. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Add the cream to the pan and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat & add the butter. Mix thoroughly. Add the grated parmesan before serving and stir until melted. Drain your pasta and serve between 4 plates.

Top with the Alfredo sauce and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

We are the largest independent homeware specialist based in Inverness- the +LJKODQGV· &DSLWDO RI 6FRWODQG Our aim is to offer "Everything for the home..." and if you visit our store you will appreciate all we have to offer throughout our four department floors. There is a wide variety of choice from quality homeware accessories to lighting and wedding gifts.

AS A LEADING UK SPECIALIST IN SUPPLYING QUALITY ACCESSORIES FOR THE HOME,

KITCHEN: pots & pans, cookware & bakeware, kitchen scales & bins, gadgets & utensils, woodware, textiles, electrical goods.

DINING ROOM & ROOM ACCESSORIES: dinnerware, cutlery, glassware, table mats & coasters, table cloths, napkins, trays, vases, clocks, mirrors, pictures & occasional furniture.

Farm & Household Stores products are available to buy online or try our “Click & Collect” service if you prefer.

HOMEBREW & EASIYO: from Beer Kits & Wine Kits to all the basics we are Scotland’s largest stockist for Homebrew. We carry the full range of our ever popular Easiyo too.

We take great pride in looking after our customers and have been accredited in 2011, 2012 & 2013 with "Best Customer Service Award".

BATHROOM: bathroom scales, towels & mats, sink & shower accessories, bathroom cabinets, mirrors, lighting & laundry baskets – we have the lot.

With over 40 years of experience we supply luxury products to private homes, holiday homes, guest houses and estates.

OUTDOORS AND INDOORS: letterboxes, coal bunkers,

If you cannot find what you are looking for on our website or have any questions about any of our designer homeware accessories, then please don't hesitate to contact us on 01463 222765.

Our award-winning customer service team is on hand to take your call and we are always happy to help.

LIGHTING: wall lights, mirror lights, ceiling pendants, spot lights, desk lamps, table lamps, outdoor lighting & light bulbs of all kinds. washing lines & posts, rotatory units, door mats (external & internal), washmats, compost bins, brooms, brushes, mops & buckets.

FOR YOUR WEDDING OR SPECIAL OCCASION: we offer bridal couples our Wedding List Service. For special occasions we have plenty of choice but if you can’t decide on a gift why not pick up one of our Gift Vouchers.

The brand names we stock symbolize our constant drive for quality homeware accessories, and our range includes Silverwood Bakeware, Le Creuset, Horwood, Master Class, Joseph Joseph, Denby, Brabantia, Oxo Good Grips, Stanley Flasks, Salter Scales.

The list could go on...

)DUP +RXVHKROG 6WRUHV /WG Millburn Road, Inverness IV2 3PX Fax: 01463 710439 Tel: 01463 222765

fh

7 Millburn Road Inverness 01463 222765 www.fhstores.co.uk

Quality, Value and Choice

stores.co.uk

7KH %HVW (OHFWULF +HDWHUV ,Q 7KH :RUOG"

:LQWHU LV FRPLQJ ZK\ QRW SUHSDUH QRZ"

/RZ SRZHU XVDJH QR VHUYLFLQJ YHU\ FRQWUROODEOH $1' D FRV\ ZDUPWK

\

:LVKLQJ DOO RXU FXVWRPHUV ROG DQG QHZ D ZDUP DQG HQMR\DEOH IIHHVWLYH VHDVRQ 6HYHQ \HDUV RI VXSSO\LQJ JUHDW KHDWLQJ WR KXQGUHGV RI KDSS\ FXVWRPHUV DFURVV 6FRWODQG

(OVFR +HDWLQJ /WG )RU PRUH GHWDLOV DQG D )5(( LQIIRR SDFN RQ DOO RXU LQQRYDWLYH KHD DWWLQJ SUUR RG R GXFWV ZZZ HOVFR FR XN RU SKRQH -RKQ RQ

It’s Christmas and whether you’re as organised as Santa or doing the last minute dash around the shops on Christmas Eve, we’re here to help at Harris Tweed Hebrides!

Visit us at our Stornoway store to see our curated selection of gifts, the perfect place to get some ideas for your family and friends.

If you’re looking for an extra special gift, we’ve got a fantastic range of Harris Tweed garments - both modern cuts and traditional tailoring to suit all styles and ages. Currently carrying ranges from Bucktrout Tailoring, Eliz Scott and Walker Slater - who you may remember designed the iconic Official Scottish Rugby Union garment - and an accessory collection from the bespoke fabric our mill-based design team created. Harris Tweed handbags made exclusively for us by our friends at Owen Barry, leather specialists with a long history of manufacturing based in the UK. Bags for any occassion, a fold-over clutch for those festive nights out or a tote bag for those that like to carry everything they might need at all times!

Looking for stocking fillers?

We’ve got Harris Tweed purses and wallets, hipflasks, faux-fur lined gloves to keep her hands warm during those lovely winter walks and, as always, a range of accessories by local designer, Rarebird.

...And for all you last minute shoppers - we’re open til 3pm on Christmas Eve! Harris Tweed Hebrides Mill Shop 25 North Beach Stornoway Isle of Lewis HS1 2XQ t: +44 (0) 1851 700 046 e: shop@harristweedhebrides.com

SpotLIGHTon FREE Listings, FREE to View, FREE to upload Promote your events in this section by going online at www.spotlighton.co.uk Register, key in details which will then automatically be printed in the magazine.

*January Issue Deadline: 29th November*.

Inclusion of events is free. We do not accept submissions for classes, courses or workshops.Contact venues & organisers first as there may be changes.

3 monday chair based movement to music 3pm - 3.30pm, hebrides dance & wellbeing studio, stornoway golf club. class for over 50s - £2 per class. book online at website. call 07715 499552 or email at kirstie.anderson@gmail.com zumba 7pm, stornoway golf club. (£5 drop in rate) call 07715 499552 digiheb film making workshops for young people aged between 14 - 25yrs 7pm - 9pm, an lanntair. call 01851 708480

4 tuesday November 2018 1 saturday colin macleod 8pm, an lanntair. call 01851 708480 or email at info@lanntair.com barvas traditional music session 8pm , barvas community centre. music to enjoy! call 01851 840400 or email at macleodpeggy@hotmail.com pound at fitbeat 9.30am - 10.15am, north lochs community centre. cardio workout using lightly weighted drumsticks. adaptable to all fitness levels & open to over 15s. booking essential. call 07917 755 459 woolcraft & spinning group workshops 2.30pm 5pm, barvas community centre. learn & share skills: spinning wool, felting, weaving, braiding, natural dyeing, textile art, knitting, crochet ,etc christmas fayre 11am - 2pm, back community centre, upper coll. fun for all the family. call 01851 820 745

1 saturday - 8 saturday royal mail letter to santa last day to post a letter to santa is 8th dec: father christmas, santa's grotto, reindeerland, xm4 5hq. don't forget the stamp!!

1 saturday - 31 monday bless the weather exhibition: photography by christopher swan, documenting the land, sea, light & seasons of the west coast of harris 8am - 7pm, talla na mara. call 01859 503900 or email at info@tallanamara.co.uk

admin@winterburnmedia.co.uk

befriending training: free one day training course, help, support & encourage others by becoming a befriender 10am, 30 francis street, stornoway, isle of lewis. booking required. call 01851 702632 or email at info@befriendinglewis.org.uk salvation army baby bank 10am - 12pm, salvation army, bayhead, stornoway. free baby clothes & equipment under 36mnths available to all families, donations welcome. call 01851 703875 or email at stornoway@salvationarmy.org.uk stornaway writers; circle weekly meeting 7pm, an lanntair, stornaway

5 wednesday christmas craft fayre: christmas crafts for parents & toddlers 4pm - 9pm, ionad stoodie, point. www.facebook.com/point-parent-and-toddler-group music night: traditional music session, open to all. bring an instrument or just relax & enjoy the music 7.30pm - 11.59pm , loch croistean coffee shop & restaurant, b8011, uig. call 01851 672772 harris astronomy group: annual christmas quiz 7pm, tarbert library, harris. all welcome.

6 thursday lewis & harris accordion & fiddle club night with guests the elizabeth mackenzie trio 8pm, caladh inn, stornoway. call 01851 704870 or email at dmaciver.ivorhill@btinternet.com open mic night 8.30pm - 11.59pm, mcneill’s pub, 11 cromwell street. stornoway. open to all. call 01851 703734 or email mcneillsbarstornoway@gmail.com salvation army baby bank 10am - 12pm, salvation army, bayhead, stornoway. free baby clothes & equipment under 36mnths available to all families, donations welcome. call 01851 703875 or email at stornoway@salvationarmy.org.uk

tel: 01309 690063

December 2018 - page 15

WINTER

DRIVING CHECKLIST 1. Get your car serviced 2. Check the battery

6. Wash your windscreen and check wipers

3. Top up engine coolant with antifreeze

7. Prepare for longer journeys

4. Check the condition of your tyres

9. Keep at least a quarter of a tank of fuel in case of unexpected delay

5. Check and clean your lights

10. Check oil levels

8. Carry a winter car breakdown kit

T H E W E S T E R N I S L E S P R E M I E R PA R T S R E TA I L E R

AUTOPARTS, -

Ê," ]Ê-/", "7 9Ê -£ÊÓ,

`>ÞÊÌ Ê À `>ÞÊn> Ê Êx°Îä« ÊÊÊÊUÊÊÊÊ->ÌÕÀ`>ÞÊ > ÊqÊx« /\Êä£nx£ÊÇäÊÈ Î ÊÊUÊÊ \ÊÃ> iÃJ>«Ã ` ÀiVÌ°V °Õ ÊÊ ÜÜÜ°>ÕÌ «>ÀÌà ÃÌ À Ü>Þ°V ÊÊÊÊUÊÊÊ `ÊÕÃÊ

C hr istm a s g i ft vo uch er s an d l ots of g ift id e a s a va i l a b le i n store

Visit

A U T O PA R T S

for :

UÊ >À}iÊÃÌ V Ê vÊ Ì ÀÊ«>ÀÌÃÊ> `Ê>VViÃà À ið UÊ V> Ê` ÃÌÀ LÕÌ ÊÃiÀÛ ViÊÌ Ê}>À>}iÃ°Ê UÊ >À}iÊÃÌ V Ê vÊÜ «iÀð UÊ >À}iÊÃÌ V Ê> `ÊÀ> }iÊ vÊ Ã]Ê ÕLÀ V> ÌÃÊ> `Êv Õ `ð UÊ >À}iÊÃÌ V Ê vÊL>ÌÌiÀ iÃÊv ÀÊV>ÀÃ]ÊÌÀÕV Ã]ÊL >ÌÃ]ʵÕ>`Ã]ÊL iÃÊ> ` other equipment.

UÊ >À}iÊÃÌ V Ê vÊÜ ÌiÀÊ«À `ÕVÌÃÊ V Õ` }Ê> Ì vÀiiâi]Ê ÜÊÌi «iÀ>ÌÕÀi screen wash, large bags of salt and salt sticks for driveways UÊ ÕÌ À Ãi`ÊÃÌ V ÃÌÃÊ vÊ- -Ê >ÃiÃÊÊ Ê À} ]Ê ÓÉ À} Ê Ý]ÊÊ Ê "ÝÞ}i ]Ê ÌÀ }i ]Ê i Õ ÊEÊ,£Î{

Ê

UÊ ÕÌ À Ãi`ÊÃÌ V ÃÌÊ vÊÊÌ ÃÊ> `ÊiµÕ « i Ì\ Ê -i> iÞÊÊ Ê/ ÃÊ]Ê >V Ã]Ê «ÀiÃà ÀÃ]Ê i iÀ>Ì ÀÃÊ> `Ê7i `iÀð Ê - i}i ÊqÊ/ Ã°Ê UÊ >ÀV iÀÊ Ê*ÀiÃÃÕÀiÊ7>à iÀÃÊEÊ> Ê Ì iÀÊ >ÀV iÀÊ«À `ÕVÌÃÊ>Û> >L i° UÊ ÕÌ À Ãi`ÊÃÌ V ÃÌÃÊ vÊ/ Õ iÊÀ vÊL ÝiÃ]ÊÀ vÊÀ>V ÃÊ> `ÊL iÊÀ>V ð UÊ ÕÌ À Ãi`ÊÃÌ V ÃÌÃÊ vÊÀiÌ> Ê«À `ÕVÌÃÊ V Õ` }Ê iL]Ê ÌÃ] Ê ÞV ÌiÊ*> ÌÃ]Ê, }]Ê/iÌÀ ÃÞ Ê> `Ê >À* > Ê«À `ÕVÌð UÊ *> ÌÊ Ý }ÊÃiÀÛ ViÊv ÀÊÌ ÕV ÊÕ«Ê> `ÊÃVÀ>ÌV ÊÀi«> À° UÊ

Õ LiÀÊ« >ÌiÊÃiÀÛ ViÊÌ ÊL Ì ÊÌÀ>`iÊ> `Ê«ÕL VÊv ÀÊV>ÀÃ]ÊÛ> ÃÊ> ` motorbikes.

UÊ iÞÊVÕÌÌ }ÊÃiÀÛ Vi

AUTOPARTS, ISLAND ROAD STORNOWAY HS1 2RD

6 thursday - 8 saturday snow white & the seven dwarves (6th - 7pm; 7th 10.30am & 7pm & 8th - 11am & 2.30pm, an lanntair. adults £10; concessions £8. call 01851 708480. book tickets at www.tickets.lanntair.com

7 friday sea survival/personal survival techniques course 9am - 5pm, maritime department, lews castle college. call fiain angus macaulay & alistair macleod on 01851 770257 & 01851 770284 cuppa ’n’ ceilidh 2pm, newton centre, stornoway. for ages 55+. call 07981 082 012 or email at h121ferrier@googlemail.com pointers youth cafe night 7pm - 11pm, pointer's drop-in-centre, 14-16 north beach, stornoway. call 01851 822713 or email at pointers@cne-siar.gov.uk live music at the crown inn 9.30pm - 11.59pm, the crown inn, north beach street, stornoway. come along for a drink & some live music. call 01851 703734 or email at info@crownhotelstornoway.com the ark drop in centre for women whose ife is affected by substance abuse 10am - 12pm, the shed, francis street, stornaway. call 01851 704557 or email at admin@theshedproject.org.uk

8 saturday north lochs christmas fair 1pm - 4pm , north lochs community centre. xmas cafe in conservatory, santa’s grotto & xmas stalls. email at northlochshall@gmail.com parant is paiste: parent & child,story & song 1.15pm, museum nan eilean, stornoway. £1 per child. song session for young children & parents/guardians. in gaelic & english. call 01851 822746 or email at museum@cne-siar.gov.uk messy art 2pm, museum nan eilean, stornoway. ideal for families, bring along your little ones & get creative! call 01851 822746 or email at museum@cne-siar.gov.uk

10 monday chair based movement to music 3pm - 3.30pm, hebrides dance & wellbeing studio, stornoway golf club. class for over 50s - £2 per class. book online at website. call 07715 499552 or email at kirstie.anderson@gmail.com www.isledance.bigcartel.co digiheb film making workshops for young people aged between 14 - 25yrs 7pm - 9pm, an lanntair. call 01851 708480

11 tuesday child development drop-in 10.30am, lewis sports centre (ionad sport leodhais), stornoway. come in with enquiries on your child's development, both physical & cognitive. (nhs western isles). call 01851 822785 dementia friendly community cafe run by alzheimer's scotland 2pm, tigh ceilidh, airigh a bhreide, tolsta, page 18 - December 2018

isle of lewis. call 01851 702123 or email at mmacinnes@alzscot.org salvation army baby bank 10am - 12pm, salvation army, bayhead, stornoway. free baby clothes & equipment under 36mnths available to all families, donations welcome. call 01851 703875 or email at stornoway@salvationarmy.org.uk stornaway writers; circle weekly meeting 7pm, an lanntair, stornaway

11 tuesday - 12 wednesday the nutcracker presented by ballet hebrides in aid of action for children eilean siar 5pm & 7.30pm, an lanntair adults £10; concessions £8; u16 ££6. call 01851 708480. tickets at www.tickets.lanntair.com

12 wednesday tide lines 6pm - 9pm, stornoway town hall music night: traditional music session, open to all. bring an instrument or just relax & enjoy the music 7.30pm - 11.59pm , loch croistean coffee shop & restaurant, b8011, uig. call 01851 672772

13 thursday tide lines 6pm - 9pm, tarbert community centre, pier road, tarbert, isle of harris. email at tarbertcc@hotmail.co.uk salvation army baby bank 10am - 12pm, salvation army, bayhead, stornoway. free baby clothes & equipment under 36mnths available to all families, donations welcome. call 01851 703875 or email at stornoway@salvationarmy.org.uk open mic night 8.30pm - 11.59pm, mcneill’s pub, 11 cromwell street. stornoway. open to all. call 01851 703734 or email mcneillsbarstornoway@gmail.com

14 friday dileab: a culmination of the dileab project including songs & poetry tbc, lewis sports centre the ark drop in centre for women whose ife is affected by substance abuse 10am - 12pm, the shed, francis street, stornaway. call 01851 704557 or email at admin@theshedproject.org.uk autism eileanan siar (local autism & additional needs support group) 10am - 12pm, lewis retirement centre, bayhead, stornaway. call 07444 425322 the ark drop in centre for women whose ife is affected by substance abuse 10am - 12pm, the shed, francis street, stornaway. call 01851 704557 or email at admin@theshedproject.org.uk

15 saturday 70s disco: abba 70s fancy dress night hosted by alzheimer scotland 9pm, stornoway sea angling club, south beach quay. £5 donation at the door. call 01851 702123

17 monday chair based movement to music 3pm - 3.30pm, hebrides dance & wellbeing studio, stornoway golf

tel: 01309 690063

admin@winterburnmedia.co.uk

club. class for over 50s - £2 per class. book online at website. call 07715 499552 or email at kirstie.anderson@gmail.com www.isledance.bigcartel.co the thu air aigeann m’ inntinn: film & talk by catriona black 7pm, an lanntair. the world première of an iolaire: tha thu air aigeann m’ inntinn by catrìona black, inspired by the iolaire disaster. call 01851 708480 or email at info@lanntair.com digiheb film making workshops for young people aged between 14 - 25yrs 7pm - 9pm, an lanntair. call 01851 708480

18 tuesday salvation army baby bank 10am - 12pm, salvation army, bayhead, stornoway. free baby clothes & equipment under 36mnths available to all families, donations welcome. call 01851 703875 or email at stornoway@salvationarmy.org.uk stornaway writers; circle weekly meeting 7pm, an lanntair, stornaway

19 wednesday music night: traditional music session, open to all. bring an instrument or just relax & enjoy the music 7.30pm - 11.59pm , loch croistean coffee shop & restaurant, b8011, uig. call 01851 672772

20 thursday salvation army baby bank 10am - 12pm, salvation army, bayhead, stornoway. free baby clothes & equipment under 36mnths available to all families, donations welcome. call 01851 703875 or email at stornoway@salvationarmy.org.uk open mic night 8.30pm - 11.59pm, mcneill’s pub, 11 cromwell street. stornoway. open to all. call 01851 703734 or email mcneillsbarstornoway@gmail.com

21 friday the ark drop in centre for women whose ife is affected by substance abuse 10am - 12pm, the shed, francis street, stornaway. call 01851 704557 or email at admin@theshedproject.org.uk live music

21 friday - 22 saturday santa trot (21st - evening ) children get to take their favourite ponies all dressed up down to santa’s grotto. parents, etc can enjoy mulled wine & mincepies. £15 (incl gift from santa). call 01851 890453 to book

22 saturday messy art 2pm, museum nan eilean, stornoway. ideal for families, bring along your little ones & get creative! call 01851 822746 or email at museum@cne-siar.gov.uk astrid & friends with special guests paul wilson (snow patrol) & edwyn collins 10pm - 1am, an lanntair, stornaway. (over 18s only). £12.50. call admin@winterburnmedia.co.uk

01851 708480, tickets at www.tickets.lanntair.com

26 wednesday the top guns: boxing day fun 10.30pm , stornoway sea angling club, south beach quay. call 01851 702123

27 thursday salvation army baby bank 10am - 12pm, salvation army, bayhead, stornoway. free baby clothes & equipment under 36mnths available to all families, donations welcome. call 01851 703875 or email at stornoway@salvationarmy.org.uk open mic night 8.30pm - 11.59pm, mcneill’s pub, 11 cromwell street. stornoway. open to all. call 01851 703734 or email mcneillsbarstornoway@gmail.com elephant sessions (re-scheduled from oct) 8pm, an lanntair. adults £15; u27s £12. call 01851 708480. tickets at www.tickets.lanntair.com

28 friday salvation army coffee & sale a selection of home baking, bric-a-brac, tea & coffee, as well as a light lunch for you to enjoy 12pm, salvation army, bayhead, stornoway. call 01851 703875 or email at stornoway@salvationarmy.org.uk the ark drop in centre for women whose ife is affected by substance abuse 10am - 12pm, the shed, francis street, stornaway. call 01851 704557 or email at admin@theshedproject.org.uk

29 saturday the beacon cafe: soup,paninis, sandwiches, teas, coffee & cake 10am - 4pm, tiumpanhead community centre, point, isle of lewis. call grace smith on 01851 870771 exhibition iolaire 100 (opening): margaret ferguson; a collection of 100 portraits created over the past 2 years of sailors lost & saved on the iolaire 4pm, an lanntair, kenneth street, stornoway. call 01851 708480 or email at info@lanntair.com sal: iain morrison & dalziel + scullion; to mark the centenary of the iolaire tragedy, 14-18 now & an lanntair have commissioned two new suites of gaelic music 8pm, an lanntair, kenneth street, stornoway. call 01851 708480 or email at info@lanntair.com

31 monday iolaire community remembrance event 9.30pm, lewis sports centre iolaire centenary: sal & an treas suaile - gaelic music commissions to mark the centenary of the iolaire tragedy, an lanntair have commissioned two new suites of gaelic music 8pm, an lanntair, kenneth street, stornoway. call 01851 708480 or email at info@lanntair.com new year's eve bash 10pm, stornoway sea angling club, south beach quay. call 01851 702123

tel: 01309 690063

December 2018 - page 19

Adult Non Fiction

Blowing the Bloody Doors Off

By Michael Caine With over 100 movies to his credit over six decades, Hollywood legend and British national treasure Michael Caine shares the wisdom, stories, insight and skills that life has taught him in his remarkable career - and now his 85th year. A brilliant new insight into his life and work and with his wonderful gift for story, this is Caine at his wise and entertaining best.

Adult Fiction

Macbeth

By Jo Nesbo When a drug bust turns into a bloodbath it's up to Inspector Macbeth and his team to clean up the mess.

He's also an ex-drug addict with a troubled past. He's rewarded for his success. Power. Money. Respect.

Plagued by hallucinations and paranoia, Macbeth starts to unravel. He's convinced he won't get what is rightfully his. Unless he kills for it.

Adult Non Fiction Adult Fiction

The Tattooist of Auschwitz

By Heather Morris When Lale Sokolov arrived in Auschwitz-Birkenau he was given the job of tattooing the prisoners marked for survival - scratching numbers into his fellow victims' arms in indelible ink.

Waiting in line to be tattooed, terrified and shaking, was a young girl. For Lale - a dandy, a jack-the-lad, a bit of a chancer - it was love at first sight. And he was determined not only to survive himself, but to ensure this woman, Gita, did, too. So begins the love story of the tattooist of Auschwitz.

Junior Fiction

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Yeti in the Playground!

By Pamela Butchart Izzy and friends are excited! The snow is falling fast and they're hoping they'll all be sent home early. But then they hear weird noises in the playground, and find a big footprint in the snow... And that's when they know!

There's a YETI in the playground and it's HUNGRY!

Have you Eaten Grandma?

By Gyles Brandreth A definitive (and hilarious) guide to punctuation, spelling, and good English for the twenty-first century. Without hesitation or repetition (and just a touch of deviation) Gyles skewers the linguistic horrors of our time, tells us where we've been going wrong (and why), and reveals his tips and tricks to ensure that, in future, we make fewer (rather than 'less') mistakes.

Junior Fiction

The Tales of Beedle the Bard

By JK Rowling A favourite bedtime read in wizarding households for generations. Full of magic and trickery, these classic tales both entertain and instruct, and remain as captivating to young wizards today as they were when Beedle first put quill to parchment in the fifteenth century. Translated by Hermione Granger the collection includes: 'The Tale of the Three Brothers' â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which Harry Potter fans will know from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - 'The Fountain of Fair Fortune' and 'The Warlock's Hairy Heart' amongst others. Published in aid of the Lumos, a charity dedicated to ending the institutionalisation of children.

P u zz l e P a g e

Medium Easy

Answers will be printed in the next issue of Spotlight

The Garden TOM ANGEL IS A LANDSCAPE CONSULTANT AND GARDEN

AVIEMORE. HIS ANGEL HORTICULTURE

DESIGNER BASED IN BUSINESS

LTD OFFERS CONSULTANCY AND DESIGN SERVICES TO CLIENTS ALL

SCOTLAND. TOM ALSO ‘THE MOUNTAIN GARDENER’ WHICH YOU WILL FIND AT WWW.ANGELHORT.COM OVER

WRITES A BLOG AS

S

itting next to the fire as I write this, with a steaming cup of coffee on the table and the dog curled up next to me, I am reminded about why I ended up living in the highlands.

A day out enjoying the autumnal colours, followed by cosy evenings spent indoors make for a pretty unbeatable mix.

The beautiful autumn display this year was never going to last too long, the trees and plants have had a stressful summer with the lack of rain, so will have been keen to shrug off their leaves at the first sign of frost. The Birch trees that I can see beyond my garden fence are looking increasingly sparse, and are starting to take on that magical monochromatic sheen unique to Birch woodlands in the winter.

There are jobs to do in the garden, not only to put the garden to bed for the winter, but to keep it looking interesting from the warmth of the house. Once the remainder of the leaves are down, I will use my lawnmower to collect them from the lawn before putting them in bin bags to create a nice leaf mulch for next year. If you put too many leaves in your compost it will make it too carbon-heavy, but a good well-rotted leaf mulch creates a reliable soil conditioner for use next year.

22

In the flowerbeds I will be raking the leaves out, and paying special attention to clearing the leaves from the base of plants where they can cause fungal infections to build up.

There are plants to divide, plants to mulch, and some lawn repairs to do too. My shed’s green roof which has been looking very sorry this year will get some running repairs as well. Plants with spent seed-heads will be cut back if they are looking messy, and others I will leave to catch morning frosts and add some interest to the garden.

I have some great projects on the go at the moment too.

One that has recently come to completion was a tricky planting plan for a boggy bed that is both exposed and shaded – a perfect storm of difficulties! Careful selection of plants will reward us with a long-lasting and robust display next year and for years to come.

Autumn and winter are the best time of year for planning and undertaking garden projects, and the absolute best time for planting bare root hedges and trees. Keep thinking about your garden through the winter and you can reward yourself with some magical results come spring time!

To find out more about what I am up to you will find me as The Mountain Gardener™ on Instagram or on my blog which you will find at www.angelhort.com.

PaINT AND STENCIL MDF LETTERS FOR PRETTY CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS FILL A BOX FRAME WITH BAUBLES AND ADD VINYL STICKERS

string pine cones on to twine for a simple rustic garland make your own crackers with cardboard tubes and tissue paper

1.

Put your Christmas tree in an old duvet cover when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re transporting it home and keep it on when you carry it into your house no needles in your car or on the path from the front door. Do the same thing when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re removing the tree after Christmas and you can get it out of the house with the minimum of mess.

2.

Make mulled wine or mulled cider in the slow cooker. That way, you are greeted by the most welcoming and festive aromas on walking through the door after work. An instant cure for any chilly or busy commute home and gets you straight back into the festive spirit.

3.

Do the 'squint test' on the lights on the Christmas tree. Once you have the lights on the tree, turn the rest of the lights in the room off, stand back and squint at the tree. You can then see any bare spaces so you can rearrange the lights for maximum coverage before you add the decorations.

4.

6.

8.

9.

Put the roll of wrapping paper on the top of a double radiator - it's the perfect dispenser.

To easily remove sticky price labels off gift bags without breaking your nails or destroying the gift, use a hairdryer to heat up the glue and peel the labels off easily.

Always win at Christmas crackers.

If you never get your hands on that covetable key ring bottle opener, here’s what to do. Hold your end of the cracker lower, so it tilts towards you, and go for a slow, controlled pull, with minimum twisting.

5.

7.

Homemade mincemeat is much tastier than shop-bought, but not everybody has time. Buy the best supermarket jar, then add extra brandy and a handful of luxurious fruits, such as dried cherries or figs.

Accept compliments graciously.

If your tree is looking thin, there is no need to splash out on a new one.

Simply buy some dark-green tinsel (as close to the colour of the needles as you can find) and twist it around the tree to give the impression of fuller branches. Or for the ultimate DIY decoration use a cream feather boa instead of tinsel - it looks like snow!

Many a parent has tried to “post” their child’s letter to Father Christmas up the chimney, only to find the missive refuses to budge – to the distress of the little ones. Crack open a door or window to create a draught and the missive should fly up with no trouble. And if you haven’t got a chimney? Post the letter to Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ by December 6, and the Royal Mail will send your child back a personalised reply, free of charge.

A History of

Festive Traditions Why Mince Pies?

Mince Pies, like Christmas Puddings, were originally filled with meat, such as lamb, rather than the dried fruits and spices mix as they are today. They were also first made in an oval shape to represent the manger that Jesus slept in as a baby, with the top representing his swaddling clothes. Sometimes they even had a 'pastry baby Jesus' on the top!

During the Stuart and Georgian times, in the UK, mince pies were a status symbol at Christmas.

Very rich people liked to show off at their Christmas parties by having pies made is different shapes (like stars, crescents, hearts, tears, & flowers); the fancy shaped pies could often fit together a bit like a jigsaw! They also looked like the 'knot gardens' that were popular during those periods. Having pies like this meant you were rich and could afford to employ the best and most expensive, pastry cooks.

Now they are normally made in a round shape and are eaten hot or cold.

Why Christmas Trees?

Germany is credited with starting the Christmas tree tradition (as we now recognise it) in the 16th Century, when devout Christians brought decorated trees into their homes.

When did it start in the UK? German-born Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, is usually credited with popularising the Christmas tree in Britain in the 1840s and 1850s. A drawing of the Royal Family celebrating around a decorated Christmas tree in Windsor was published in 1848 by the Illustrated London News and the custom was eventually taken up by the masses.

Why Christmas Crackers?

Christmas crackers are a traditional Christmas favourite in the UK. They were first made in about 1845-1850 by a London sweet maker called Tom Smith. He had seen the French 'bon bon' sweets (almonds wrapped in pretty paper). He came back to London and tried selling sweets like that in England and also included a small motto or riddle in with the sweet. But they didn't sell very well.

Legend says that, one night, while he was sitting in front of his log fire, he became very interested by the sparks and cracks coming from the fire. Suddenly, he thought what a fun idea it would be, if his sweets and toys could be opened with a crack when their fancy wrappers were pulled in half.

Crackers were originally called 'cosaques' and were thought to be named after the 'Cossack' soldiers who had a reputation for riding on their horses and firing guns into the air!

When Tom died, his expanding cracker business was taken over by his three sons, Tom, Walter and Henry. Walter introduced the hats into crackers and he also traveled around the world looking for new ideas for gifts to put in the crackers.

The company built up a big range of 'themed' crackers. There were ones for bachelors and spinsters (single men and women), where the gifts were things like false teeth and wedding rings! There were also crackers for Suffragettes (women who campaigned to get women the vote), war heroes and even Charlie Chaplain! Crackers were also made for special occasions like Coronations. The British Royal Family still has special crackers made for them today!

Very expensive crackers were made such as the 'Millionaire's Crackers' which contained a solid silver box with a piece of gold and silver jewerly inside it!

Cracker manufacturers also made large displays, such as horse drawn carriages and sleighs, for the big shops in London.

The world's longest Christmas cracker measured 63.1m (207ft) long and 4m (13ft) in diameter and was made by the parents of children at Ley Hill School and Pre-School, Chesham, Buckinghamshire, UK on 20 December 2001. Now that would be one big bang!

The biggest Christmas cracker pull was done by 1,478 people at an event organised by Honda Japan at Tochigi Proving Ground, Tochigi, Japan, on 18 October 2009. Now that would be a lot of bangs!

Christmas Cake Christmas just isn’t Christmas without a Christmas cake. The process of making it over a number of weeks, the aromas when cooking and then the joy of the deep, rich flavours when we come to eat it. In my house we always eat it with a good cup of tea in the early afternoon when there is just a “wee space to fill” even when there probably isn’t a “wee space to fill”!!

Ingredients: 525g currants 225g sultanas 225g raisins 110g candied peel 165g glacé cherries 300g plain flour pinch of salt ½ tsp mixed spice ½ tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp ground nutmeg 300g soft butter 300g soft brown sugar Zest of one lemon 6 large egges, lightly beaten 3 tbsp brandy, extra to feed

Method: 150 °C, 23cm tin – line with 2 layers of baking parchment 1. In a large bowl, mix the fruit, flour, salt and spices 2. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add lemon zest.. beat in the egg, little at a time (if you rush adding the egg the mixture will curdle).

3. Add Half the fruit mix to the creamed butter, fold to incorporate. Add the second half and then the brandy 4. Tip mixture into the cake tin making a slight dip in the centre so as the cake cooks it will level out leaving a flat top to decorate 5. Bake for about 4 ½ hours 6. Leave to cool in the tin for at least an hour, then remove from tin and cool completely.

7. Once cool, prick with skewer and slowly drizzle 3-4 tbsp brandy over. This is feeding!

The cake should then be “fed” every 2 weeks until being iced with marzipan and icing before Christmas.

Enjoy!!

Chocolate and Orange Christmas Pudding 118 High Street, FORRES IV36 1NP

This recipe for Christmas pudding includes the popular flavour combination of chocolate orange.

A Sure-fire Festive Hit!

Ingredients: 100g raisins 100g sultanas 1 orange, zested 2 eggs 50g plain flour 100g frozen raspberries, defrosted 100g frozen cherries, defrosted and chopped roughly

1 pear 100ml brandy 100g dark chocolate 100g unsalted butter 100g dark soft brown sugar 1 tsp mixed spice 1 tbsp cocoa powder 50g fresh breadcrumbs

Method: 1. Peel and grate the pear and place in a microwave safe bowl with the raspberries, orange zest, cherries, sultanas, raisins and brandy. Heat for 2-3 minutes then leave to stand and allow the fruit to absorb the brandy.

2. Grate or chop the chocolate and stir into the warm fruit with the butter. The fruit should still be hot enough to melt the chocolate, if not, give it a further minute in the microwave making sure not to burn the chocolate.

3. Grease a 1 litre pudding bowl with a little butter.

4. Lay two sheets of tinfoil over each other and grease the top one. Hold them together, fold a pleat across the middle of the tinfoil and set aside, this will form the lid while the pudding is steaming.

5. Beat the eggs together. Sift the flour, cocoa powder, sugar and mixed spice onto the cooled fruit and chocolate mixture, then add the breadcrumbs and eggs and mix until well combined.

A sturdy spatula or wooden spoon does the job nicely.

6. Transfer the mixture into the greased pudding bowl and cover with the pre greased tinfoil lid (greased side down). Tie a length of string around the lip of the bowl to keep the tinfoil in place.

Tuck the tinfoil so as to keep the water from getting into the pudding whilst it cooks.

7. In a large pan, place a smaller heatproof bowl to sit the pudding on while it cooks, and pour enough boiling water so as to reach about half way up the pudding bowl and leave to simmer with a lid on the pan for about 2 hours. Use a skewer to test if the pudding is cooked straight through the foil. Allow an extra 15-20 minutes if the skewer comes out wet.

8. Once cooled the pudding can be kept for up to 2 months wrapped up in the foil.

Microwave for 5 minutes to reheat and serve with cream or ice cream.

STEP 1 Visit

SpotLIGHT

www.spotlighton.co.uk

STEP 2 Click SMART PHONES, TABLETS, DESKTOP AND LAPTOPS

STEP 3 Enter your Email and Click

Sign up

YOU’RE DONE! Now you will be up to date each week

WML Survey Half Page.pdf

1

09/08/2018

t to hear n a w e W U! from YO

11:49

2018

READER SURVEY

Spotlight is conducting a survey into what you feel about your monthly magazine.

We want to know:

t What you like t What you don’t like t What you would like to see included which isn’t already.

In order to contribute your views we would invite you to go to the home page of our websitenwww. spotlighton.co.uk and click on the survey button.

Alternatively, if you prefer to just send us an email then please forward your comments to admin@winterburnmedia.com

h arristweedh ebrides.com

W O V E N N B Y HAN D I N T H E O U T E R H E B R I D E S O F S C O T L AND

25 North Beach Stornoway Isle of Lewis Scotland, UK HS1 2XQ t: +44 (0) 1851 700 046 e: shop@harristweedhebrides.com