Nairn November 10

NOVEMBER 2010

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SpotLight The North’s Favourite FREE wee mag’!

on Nairn and district ...information on your community

FOR ALL YOUR DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL SERVICE NEEDS

IRONING PILING UP? WE CAN-DO IT! IRONING, LAUNDRY, DRY CLEANING, CARPETS & UPHOLSTERY HOUSE CLEARANCES, GARDEN TIDYING AND MORE

1A HARBOUR STREET, NAIRN - 01667 452211 ALSO AT 22 HIGH STREET, FORRES

Call today and talk to Ian or Richard. ?

Now recruiting ?

This months blog: Slow computers ?

See our website for more information

Tel: 01309 676151 www.fireflyits.com

Horizon Scotland,The Enterprise Park, Forres, Moray, IV36 2AB

MORAY COAST VETERINARY GROUP West Road Greshop Estate Forres

Tel: 01309 672243 Fax: 01309 676710

www.moraycoastvetgroup.co.uk Modern well-equipped surgical facilities Full Range of services for household pets, Equine & Farm animals

Acupuncture G Allergy testing G Ultrasonic dentistry G Ultrasound G Endoscopy/Bronchoscopy G Nurse clinics G Visiting specialist ophthalmologist G Full in house lab facilities for instant diagnosis G Digital xray processing G Dedicated equine vets G Full range of pet and horse feeds

BRANCH SURGERIES

NAIRN St Ninian Road 01667 453161 LOSSIEMOUTH 68 Queen Street 01343 815335 BALLOCH Culloden Road 01463 794224 24 Hour Emergency cover for clients on 01309 672243

1

st

1st

Christmas Is A Coming ...And You Know What That Means.....

Party Time!!!! And What Better Way To Celebrate Than With 1st Pizza Directs Original And Best Party In A Box!! For Office Partys, Work Bashes, Family Gatherings Or Just Having The Lads (Or The Girls) Round For A Few Beers What Better Way To Celebrate Than With The Famous Mega Party Pack!

TAKE 2 - YES 2... ...of our freshly baked Extra Large Pizza bases (deep pan or traditional its up to you) spread with our special pizza sauce and slathered with loads of pure Mozzerella. Top them your way with up to four of our delicious toppings on each one Baked to perfection and served with Fresh Garlic Bread. Fresh Garlic Cheese Bread. 8 crunchy Chicken Dippers with a BBQ dip. 8 lightly spiced Chicken Wings, Large Coleslaw, Crispy Onion Rings and a large box of chunky chips ...phew add it all up and this gives you in excess of 50 quids worth of the most deliously mouthwatering party food you can think of Its yours for just

£25.00

....What a deal!!!

THE MEGA BURGER Take 2 of our 100% British Beef 1/4 Pounders, topped with thick cut Bacon and loads of Cheese, Sandwiched in a floured Bap and served with your choice of - Fried Onions, Relish, Ketchup, Mustard, Mayo or Salad (it comes plain if you don’t tell us!) and don’t forget our deliciously Chunky Chips ....All for just

£5.90

And for this month only buy a Mega Burger with Chips and get a box of BBQ Wings absolutely

FREE!!!

MAC ‘N’ CHEESE

MIDWEEK MADNESS

Everyones favourite Our Homemade Macaroni Cheese is fantastic, real Italian Pasta, creamy Cheese sauce and the flavour sensation that can only come from mature Scottish Cheddar makes this a real winner with everyone, served with chunky Chips to mop up that sauce!!!

And this month buy a Macaroni Cheese with Chips...for just

MONDAY FREE FISH*!!!

Buy a Haddock and Chips and get a single Haddock FREE!!

£3.95

and get a portion of fresh garlic bread for FREE!!!

FRIED CHICKEN* & CHIPS

TUESDAY FREE PIZZA!!!

Any Pizza any size with 4 or more toppings and get another the same FREE!!

Like Salt n Pepper or Suger and Spice these two were just meant to be together Take 5 boneless strips of pure Chicken Breast, lightly battered in our own special Batter, fried to perfection and served with loads of Chunky Chips and Homemade Coleslaw.....yours for just

WEDNESDAY

FREE KEBABS!!!

Buy any large Kebab and get a regular the same FREE!!

£5.70

But for this month everyone is going to get a delishh Corn on the Cob for FREE

DELIVERY HOTLINES CULLODEN 01463 798400 Unit 2, Keppoch Road

INVERNESS 01463 717171 Unit 2, Glenurquhart Road

NAIRN

01667 456268

The Bus Station

DINGWALL

01349 864979

61 High Street

*Not available at our Dingwall store

ORDER ONLINE AT www.1stpizzadirect.co.uk

®

SpotLight Clubs and Societies

Picture by Natalie Hunt, Copyright

In this issue......

Clubs & Societies 3/7 Pastoral letter 6 Church Details 6 Go Wild Mussels 8 Whatʼs On 11/12/19 Cinema Guide 17 Council News 18 Chefʼs Confidential 20 Useful Contacts 22 Local Holidays 22 Tide Times 22 School Dates 24 Advertisers Index 27

SAMPLE ADVERT RATES

Box £21.03 Big Box £40.59 ¼ Page £73.80 ½ Page £140.22 Business Profile £239.11 Full Page £265.68 Enhanced Listings in Whatʼs On pages from £23

All rates are per month plus VAT and based on a Black & White 12 month series.

Deadline for December issue is Wednesday 10th November

Call 01309 690063 for more details. SpotLight on Nairn is published by Winterburn Media Ltd, Comraich, Woodside Farm, Kinloss IV36 3UA All material contained within the SpotLight magazines is subject to formal copyright restrictions and therefore the reproduction of any listings, editorial, advertiser artwork or any other content, without the publishers prior consent, will be considered to be a breach of copyright.

SpotLight - Nairn and District

BODY & CORE YOGA FITNESS Train & tone yourself fit to excellent music. Cawdor Community Centre every Tuesday at 7.30pm. Mats provided. Contact Debs tel: 07840 659358 GIRLGUIDING NAIRN District Commissioner Helen Guy tel: 452746 INVERNESS CANOE CLUB Inland, sea and surf kayaks as well as open canoe SCA affiliated club. SCA Coaches provide in club training and courses.

Equipment hireable by club members. Pool lessons throughout the year.

Contact 404725 or 07775 682034 or email macksteve@aol.com MORAY ADVANCE MOTORISTS AND MOTORCYCLISTS

Reg. Scottish Charity (SC 033561) visit www.morayiam.org.uk or tel: 01309 673954 MUSIC NAIRN A charitable organisation to promote about 20 events each season. Classical and chamber music of the highest quality, poetry, chamber opera. Contact Nairn Community Centre 453476 NAIRN & DISTRICT PIPE BAND As a Pipe Band our aim is to keep the Traditional Scottish Music alive and to entertain the many visitors

during the summer months at Highland Games, Gala''s and Street Performances etc. Also to encourage the youth. Contact 454645 NAIRN AMATEUR ATHLETICS CLUB We coach all aspects of athletics on Tuesday and Thursday evenings 6pm 7.30pm. Ages 9 years and upwards. Road runner as well, come and try at the Maggot Track. Contact 459250 NAIRN ANGLING ASSOCIATION Contact 459250 or email nairnangling@tiscali.co.uk NAIRN ARTS SOCIETY Studio open to members 6 days a week. Visitors welcome Monday evenings.

The club holds exhibitions 3 times a year and a guest each month. Contact E. MacLean 454012 NAIRN COMMUNITY CENTRE Contact Sam Morrison 453476 NAIRN COUNTY FOOTBALL CLUB LTD Contact 453286 NAIRN DISABLED SPORTS CLUB We cater for bowlers and athletes who have a disability. Contact 07766 952477 NAIRN EQUESTRIAN FUN CLUB Contact 01309 641474

www.spotlighton.co.uk

NAIRN GAELIC CHOIR Performing of Gaelic and other choral music, while promoting the Gaelic language. Contact 452584 or email christinagillies@ hotmail.co.uk NAIRN HYDROTHERAPY POOL Open 6 days a week, Monday to Saturday from 9.30am. For general health and well-being, helps all ages and many mobility problems. Contact 455351 NAIRN PARKINSON'S SUPPORT GROUP People with Parkinson's, carers and famly members meet on the last Wednesday of the month in Nairn Community Centre, usually at 2pm. Speakers and discussion on medical matters and topics of general interest. Contact 455236 NAIRN LADIES CURLING CLUB A friendly ladies curling club offering good fun social curling. New members very welcome.

Contact 404256 NAIRN MINIBUS ASSOCIATION Contact 452422

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

November 2010 - page 3

TOMINTOUL

Tomintoul - the highest village in the Highlands and gateway to the Cairngorms. Idyllically situated on the River Avon, this settlement was first recorded in 1775, the aftermath of the Jacobite uprising.

ROAD TRIPS Sponsored by Alan Milne (Elgin)

Once described as the ‘oasis in the glens’, Tomintoul accommodates 3 wonderful hotels and ample amounts of Guest Houses.

Walking, Fishing, Cycle Hire and Horse Riding are just a few activities available all year round.

Combined with the local museum and the visitor centres at Glenlivet and Tomintoul Distilleries* there is something for everyone!

Our recommendation for a day trip or a weekend visit is a must.

ROUTE

Inverness - Tomintoul A9 - A95 - A939

48mls 1hr 7min

Nairn Tomintoul A939 - Speybridge - A939

38mls 56min

Forres Tomintoul A940 - Speybridge - A939

36mls 54min

Elgin Tomintoul A941 - A95 - A939

36mls 59min

HORSE RIDING

Buckie Tomintoul 44mls A96 - A95 - B9136 - A939 1hr 12min Keith Tomintoul A95 - B9136 - A939

35mls 55min

1,3L, average 40mph.

STAR RATING

BUCKIE

ELGIN

*Closed Oct - Mar.

FORRES NAIRN

A96 A98

A96

KEITH A96

A940 A939

Aberlour

INVERNESS

A95 GLENLIVET

A939

A9

A95

Grantown on Spey

TOMINTOUL DRINKING WELL TOMINTOUL

A95

A939

FA N TA S T I C U S E D CAR PRICES Peugeot 207, 1.6 Hdi 90 Sport 5Dr -Special

Peugeot 308 Hatchback

PE U 5 D GEO T oor Est 3008 ate 1.6 H

Di S por t

ÂŁ200

Discount voucher when presented against used cars.

Voucher to be presented before negotiating a deal.

www.beavtrav.com

SKI OPEN DAY IN ELGIN Tuesday 2nd November 2-6pm in our Elgin branch Come and meet the experts from 2 Ski Operators

Inghams and Ski Independence

Get your free tickets from our Forres or Elgin shops

CRUISE IN STYLE

We have brochures for all the major Cruise companies and currently some very attractive deals.

Pop along to Beaver Travel for choice in Cruising

FORRES 01309 672203 ELGIN 01343 548844

Beaver Travel, 78 High Street, Forres also at: 2-6 South Street, Elgin Beaver Travel in Forres is also a ticket agent for Eden Court Theatre, Inverness - at Box Office Prices

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SpotLight

Any final meeting is important and significant, and this one certainly was.

Jesus Christ and His chosen men prepare for one last meal together.

Jesus knew that His hour had come.

For three years Jesus has been moving towards this crucial moment. Jesus had come into this world primarily to save men from their sins and the consequences of sin. He was soon to leave and return to His Father.

Jesus loved His men with a pure and holy love. Even when He knew there was a traitor in the ranks, He did not reject them, nor did He look for others when they all deserted and ran away.

Jesus rises from His position of security, takes His coat off, lifts a towel, pours water into a basin, and begins to wash and wipe dry the feet of His disciples.

These men had just been arguing about who was the greatest, and squabbling over who was going to sit on His right hand and on His left. They were jockeying for position, and Jesus sees a need in their lives and He teaches them an unforgettable lesson on humility.

Pastoral letter and Church Meetings

Humility or meekness must never be confused with weakness. It is because Jesus is secure and has authority that He can rise and serve in this lowly way.

Imagine that scene as Jesus slowly makes His way from feet to feet. We read the details in John Chapter 13.

When He comes to Peter, Peter challenges, asking, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Do you think I am going to let you wash my feet!

Peter objected, but do not be too hard on him, because he did not understand what was happening. Jesus replies, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me”. Peter, unless I wash you, you can have no part in this ministry.

When Peter heard that, he wanted washed from toe to head! Peter wanted his whole being to be involved in the ministry of Jesus.

Jesus was doing the job of the lowest servant in the household, and He was doing it because none of the disciples was willing to stoop that low at that time.

Nairn Baptist Church meets in Nairn Community Centre, King St. All welcome 11am every Sunday and 6pm every third Sunday of the month. Contact the Pastor 459672 or visit the website www.nairnbaptistchurch.org.uk Auldearn and Dalmore Parish Church Morning Service 12 noon. Contact Rev. Ricky Reid 451675.

Cawdor Parish Church Morning Service 10.15am. Rev. JS Mathieson Nairn Free Church Morning Service 11am with Sunday School & Creche (Gordon St); Evening Service 6pm (Rosebank Hall); Youth Club for S1 upwards Wednesday 6.30pm (Rosebank Hall); Prayer and Bible Study Thursday 7.30pm (8 George St). Minister Murdo MacLeod 459131.

Nairn Christian Fellowship Sunday Worship 10.30am; Praise and Bible Study Wednesday 7.30pm. Contact Sandy Shaw 456492.

Old Parish Church meets at 10.30am for morning Worship, Sunday School & Creche. Rev. Ian WF Hamilton.

St Ninians Church Morning Worship and Sunday School page 6 - November 2010

Power likes to climb, but love gets down on its knees. Power is interested in being exalted, but love is prepared to serve humbly. What Jesus did was very ordinary. It was WHO did it, that surprised everyone.

Love without power produces sympathy. Power without love can produce selfishness or worse. In Jesus Christ, love and power produce service.

Take a moment to read the whole incident, because having dealt with the questions which arise, Jesus then says, “Now, that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them”.

Are you looking for a role model who is worth following and who will never let you down? Here you have one! Do you want and need Almighty God to bless you in some very special or specific way? Here is the answer. When God blesses, He is so gracious and so generous.

Sandy Shaw Nairn Christian Fellowship

10.15am; Prayer Meeting Wednesday 7.30pm.

Rev. Ricky Reid 451675.

St Columba’s Scottish Episcopal Family Worship 10.30am; Evening Prayer 6.30pm.

Rev. Canon Alison Simpson 452458.

St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church Sunday Mass 11.30am; Saturday Vigil 6pm.

United Reformed Church Morning Service with Sunday School and Creche 11am.

Contact Rev. Steven Manders 451443.

The Pentecostal Church of God Nairn Sunday Service 10.30am. Minister: JD Grant 456088. www.churchofgodnairn.org Nairn Joint Service first Sunday of each month St Ninians 6.30pm.

If you are a member of a church not listed here please email with details and we will print this in future issues.

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight - Nairn and District

CLUBS & SOCIETIES CONTINUED NAIRN MUSEUM Local history museum with 6 rooms of archives and memorabilia. Changing photo exhibitions. Children's Area. Disabled Access.

Open Monday to Saturday 10am - 4.30pm, Easter to October. Contac NAIRN PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY AND CAMERA CLUB Meets 7.30pm every Tuesday night in Nairn Community Centre from September to April. Contact Claude Hayward (President) tel: 459921 or email claude.hayward @btinternet.com NAIRN PLAY & LEISURE SCHEME Summer play scheme runs for 6 weeks in the holiday period Mon, Wed & Fridays 09.30 - 15.30hrs for children with learning difficulties in the Nairn area 4yrs - 18yrs

providing activities & outings with trained staff.

Contact 452269 NAIRN SYNCHRO SWIMMING CLUB Synchronized swimming a sport with a difference.

Nairn synchro has both international and national swimmers. Contact 454223 or email wyn.mcfadyen@tesco.net NAIRNSHIRE CEILIDH DANCE GROUP Meets every Tuesday 7.30pm-10pm & Thursday 2pm-4pm in the Seaforth Club, Gordon Street, Nairn.

Anyone interested in learning & enjoying dancing in a friendly and informal group contact Doreen 451430 or Alistair 01309 674499 NAIRNSHIRE FARMING SOCIETY Contact 01309 641121 or email secretary@ nairnshow.org.uk

RIDING FOR THE DISABLED We are a voluntary organisation that enables physically and mentally disabled children & adults to enjoy the benefits of horse riding.

We are always looking for volunteer helpers. Contact 01309 691823 or email tw-cm@negi.fsnet.co.uk ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION (RAFA) RAFA is an organisation offering friendship and welfare support to serving and ex-serving members of the RAF and their families.

The Branch meets every second Tuesday of the month in the Royal British Legion, Nairn at 8pm.

Contact 455001 or email cazsimmo@zoom.co.uk SEAFORTH CLUB A private members club, welcoming guests and visitors to a warm, comfortable and friendly environment. Entertainment at weekends, including bingo

& dancing to live music.

Contact 452509 SEWING GROUP NAIRN Contact 455012 SPEAKERS CLUB Leisure pursuit which encourages and develops proficiency in public speaking.

A training manual is available and new speakers follow a 10 speak programme which is individually evaluated. Contact 453373 SSPCA INVERNESS Contact 455012 VOLUNTEERING HIGHLAND Volunteer Centre in Nairn Welcomes anyone who would like to volunteer in the local area. Contact Fiona Barnes 453055 or nairn@volunteeringhighland.org

SYLVAN

FOR ALL YOUR DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL SERVICE NEEDS

HOME & OFFICE CLEANING?

WE CAN-DO IT! IRONING, LAUNDRY, DRY CLEANING, CARPETS & UPHOLSTERY HOUSE CLEARANCES, GARDEN TIDYING AND MORE

1A HARBOUR STREET, NAIRN - 01667 452211 ALSO AT 22 HIGH STREET, FORRES

McDonald & Munro Ltd

Electrical Engineers and Contractors

DOMESTIC INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL Our Reputation is Your Guarantee…

We have Earned it…Over 30 Years…

Tel (01343) 545837 • Fax (01343) 552296 4 Moycroft Industrial Estate, Elgin www.mcdonaldandmunro.co.uk e-mail: info@mcdonaldandmunro.co.uk Scottish Electrical Contractors Association

National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting

Sa On Site g FIREWOOD & TREE SERVICES Tw Milled imber lin Saw Mil le For Sale Availab

FIREWOOD

Collect now, and ensuring seasoned wood for Cut, split delivered.

Free delivery Winter at a12 discounted Summer price. within mile radius of Forres.

Hardwood and nd n dEEWOOD SOoft of tw wood oo available.

H Hardwood Softwood SSoftwood FIREWOOD R& W Otw Dwo &o TREE T available SERVICES

E SERVICES SERVIC TREE

Tree Felling, Climbing, Pruning & Extraction.

All tree work undertaken.

Fully Insured and NPTC Qualified.

Capped day rate or price per job.

01309 677871

07770807162

MORAY BASED ROOFING SPECIALIST

Slating Tiling Fascias Guttering Single Ply & GRP Flat Roof Systems G

G

G

General property maintenance service.

Chartered surveyor ref on request

OF RO O F WIIZARD Z ARD 01343 850063 07765 947025

email: enquiries@roof-wizard.co.uk

FAMILY RUN FOR 21 YEARS

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Go Wild on Mussels in the Moray Firth

SpotLight Local Interest

The Common Mussel (Mytilus Edulis) is found in many places in the Moray Firth. They can form huge beds particularly in areas where conditions are good for larval settlement, and where there is plenty of food. The largest wild mussel fishery in Scotland is in the Dornoch Firth and run by Highland Fresh Mussels Ltd. on behalf of the Highland Council. The fishery employs 4 staff, rising to 8 at busy harvesting periods, as well as supporting a number of jobs in shore based businesses. Income generated goes to the Tain Common Good Fund.

The mussel fishery has had a long association with the people of Tain. In 1612, ownership of the mussel scalps and the right to fish for mussels was bequeathed to the Royal Burgh of Tain by James VI of Scotland. The Dornoch Firth Mussels provided an important source of food during times of famine, and are today considered a highly desirable food item.

Approximately 60% of the mussels are exported directly to France. Much of the remainder is sold to two local companies in Tain, who clean and grade the mussels, pack them in 5kg bags and sell to customers across the UK. Mussels are extremely high in proteins, calcium and iron while being low in fat and calories. They are also excellent for your heart, containing the highest amount of Omega 3始s of any shellfish (this is the naturally occurring fatty acid that is believed to lower blood pressure).

The Dornoch Firth is regarded as an area of high ecological value. The Firth is virtually unaffected by industrial development and supports a wide range of marine and bird life.

Around one third of the Firth lies within Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and forms part of the proposed Marine Special Area of Conservation.

Dornoch Firth mussels are not farmed like most of the mussels sold in supermarkets.

Wild beds are used that regenerate naturally and great care is taken to ensure these are not over-fished. Stock surveys are carried out annually using a variety of techniques including underwater cameras. These then determine the harvest levels for the coming year.

Mussels as a food

Mussels are truly one of nature始s most delightful delicacies.

They are usually steamed, although they are wonderful grilled, baked, stewed or sauteed. It is difficult to understand why mussels have taken such a battering by the British palate. They are often dismissed as the delicacy that they are, perhaps due to the fact that there were once a staple part of our diet.

Europeans do not seem to have lost this and eat them by the bucketload!

Moules Mariniere 4lbs mussels, scrubbed and scraped Bunch of fresh herbs 4 tbsp onion, freshly chopped 1 oz butter unsalted 8 fl oz dry white wine 1 tsp lightly crushed black peppercorns 2 fl oz double cream

In a large pan with a tightly fitting lid, bring to the boil the herbs, onion, butter, wine and pepper. Add the mussels, return to the boil and cook over a high heat until all the mussels have opened.

Turn the mussels into a colander set over a bowl to collect all the liquor.

Put the mussels into a tureen to keep warm, then strain the liquor back into the pan through two thicknesses of muslin to remove sandy grit. Reduce the liquor by about a third to intensify the flavours, then add the cream and pour over the mussels.

Garnish generously with chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread to mop up the juices and your desired quantity of dry white wine.

For further information on the mussel fishery in the Dornoch Firth and on purchasing mussels, please contact Dafydd Morris, Fisheries Development Officer, Highland Council. (dafydd.morris@highland.gov.uk) or check out the website at www.highlandmussels.com

page 8 - November2010

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight - Nairn and District

GO LF V I EW H OT EL & SPA

CHRISTMAS MENUS NOW AVAILABLE CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS £29.50 PER PERSON, 3RD, 4TH, 10TH, 11TH, 17TH, 18TH

CHRISTMAS LUNCHES - £13.50 PER PERSON CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH - £52.50 PER PERSON BOXING DAY LUNCH - £18.50 PER PERSON HOGMANAY GALA DINNER £67.50 PER PERSON SERVED IN OUR CONSERVATORY

T h e L i n k s Br a s s e r i e

L e i s u re C l u b

Enjoy a meal overlooking our gardens and the Moray Firth.

Sun d ay L unc h 12.30pm - 2pm

Considering a Membership?

Enjoy use of facilities for the day.

•

Ne w Eve ni ng Menu 6pm - 9pm

T hro ug h Nov e mb e r Sp e c i a l 2 C ou r s e L un c h Me n u s e r v e d Mon - Th u r s o n l y £ 8 . 7 5 p er p e r s o n

•

Poo l, Sa una , Stea m R oo m, Jac uzz i, Gym & Tenni s Cou r ts

A n n u a l M e m b e r s hi p from just

£350

Soup and a sandwich combo £5.25 or Two course lunch • ONLY £5.95 Spread the cost with direct debit.

For free trial or to view facilites call 12 noon - 1.30pm Monday Fridayext 302 01667to452301 1Served 1am - 6between pm

Af tern oo n Tea & Mo rni n g Cof fee Men u

GOL F VACRES I EW HO TE L CLUB & SPA EIGHT HOTEL & LEISURE

The Seafront, Nairn Morriston Road, ElginIV12 IV304HD 6UL Telephone 01667 452301 Email: Email:golfview@crerarhotels.com eightacres@crerarhotels.com Telephone: 01343 543 077

WWW.CRERARHOTELS.COM

A d v e r t i s e y ou r e v e n t h e r e , Ca l l 0 13 0 9 6 9 0 0 6 3 o r em a i l d a vi d @ s p o t l i g ht o n. c o . uk D e a d l i n e f or D e c e m b e r i s s u e i s W e d n es d a y 1 0 t h N o ve m b e r

®

SpotLight What’s On

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2010

OCTOBER 26 tuesday

9 tuesday

we dance wee groove, 10am & 1.30pm, universal hall, findhorn, £4 per child, contact 01309 690110 music nairn - scottish opera presents bizet’s ‘carmen’, 7.30pm, £13/£5, nairn community & arts centre, £13/£5, tel 404763

blood donors, 1.30pm-4pm and 5pm-8.30pm, nairn community centre the key to happiness - open talk with phakchok rinpoche, 7.30pm, universal hall, findhorn, £7

29 friday cinema nairn - the hurt locker (15), 7.30pm, nairn community centre, king street, nairn, £4 aduts/£3 under 18’s, visit www.cinemanairn.blogspot.com for details scottish international storytelling festival 2010 eastern routes:authentic voices, 7.30pm, universal hall, findhorn, £9/£7/£5 u-16’s, contact 01309 690110 andy white, the loft venue, by kinloss, CAP/donation, tel: 01343 850111

30 saturday hocus pocus - spooky halloween walk in the grounds of brodie castle, dooking for apples & other activities, 6pm-7.30pm, adults £2/children £4/family (2+2) £10, tel: 0844 493 2156

30 saturday october - 2 tuesday november bioneers at findhorn - sustainability conference and celebration, universal hall, findhorn, to book tel: 01309 691653 or visit www.findhorn.org/bioneers

The Key to Happiness Tuesday 9th November 7.30pm £7 Open talk by Phakchok Rinpoche, a young, dynamic teacher who loves a good discussion and has studied with many of the great Tibetan meditation masters of our time - The Universal Hall, Findhorn.

Further information on RInpoche’s programme from 8-11th Nov. available from 0778 453 1420 or info@gomdescotland.org

10 wednesday highland rock garden club - ‘the bainbridge world of bulbs, 7.30pm, nairn community & arts centre, tel: 01309 641405

12 friday sean shibe, 1.10pm, inverness town house, £4/£3/£1, contact james munro tel: 01463 710363 dyke garden club - ‘hydroponics’ by jenny stewart, 7.30pm, dyke village hall, contact 01309 641342 or 01309 641565

13 saturday

8th inverness film festival, tel: 01463 234234

farmers’ market, from 10am-2pm, anderson’s school playground, locally produced beef, cheeses, bread, fish, eggs, vegetables, chocolate, preserves and arts and crafts, contact anne marie 01309 691616 earl haig ceilidh, 7.30pm, nairn community and arts centre, tel: 453476 moray piano competition - qualifying, from 9.30am, elgin town hall, www.moray-piano-competition.co.uk

6 saturday

14 sunday

NOVEMBER 1 monday the tobacco merchant’s lawyer, 7.30pm, eden court theatre, inverness, £8/£7, tel: 01463 234234

3 wednesday to 7 sunday orienteering at lossie forest, 10.15am-11am, two different courses to challenge your navigation skills and fitness in moravian’s popular saturday series of events, £3 adults/£2 juniors, for more details visit www.moravianorienteering.org the opera bus - scottish opera ‘the marriage of figaro’, 7.15pm at eden court theatre, inverness, coach pick up points along a96 from keith to nairn, ticket & coach £38 approx. (coach only £7 return) tel. 01343 835258 SpotLight - Nairn and District

moray piano competition - finals, from 2.30pm, elgin town hall, www.moray-piano-competition.co.uk

19 friday beauly gallery annual christmas/winter preview show, 7pm-9pm, beauly gallery, with exhibitions featuring local artists and music by bill francis, the kirk coffee shop will also be open, raffle & surpises on the night, for more details tel: 01463 783508 or visit www.beaulygallery.co.uk

www.spotlighton.co.uk

November 2010 - page 11

NOVEMBER 2010 continued

20 saturday over 60’s club sale and tea, 2pm-4pm, james milne institue, findhorn, £1 adults/50p children, tel: 01309 691233 for details

20 saturday cinema nairn - snow falling on cedars (15), 7.30pm, nairn community centre, king street, nairn, £4 aduts/£3 under 18’s, visit www.cinemanairn.blogspot.com for details

24 wednesday nov. to 11 saturday dec. the sleeping beauty, 7.30pm & sunday matinee at 3pm, nairn little theatre, ÂŁ8, tel: 453736 or email avril@nairndrama.org.uk

25 thursday red priest, 7:30pm, st christopher’s chapel, gordonstoun school, nr elgin, £12/£6, visit our website www.thegcs.org.uk for details or tel: 01343 837917

26 friday music nairn presents the pure brass quintet from the rsamd, nairn community and arts centre, ÂŁ12/ÂŁ8/ÂŁ2, tel: 404763 moroccan gnawa music with omar afif, 8pm, universal hall, findhorn, ÂŁ10/ÂŁ8, tel: 01309 690110

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st columbas church ceilidh & supper, nairn community and arts centre, tel: 453476 rnli swing band night, 7.30pm, james milne institue, findhorn, ÂŁ10 including food, tel:01309 691728 for more details

THE MORAY PIANO COMPETITION 2010 ELGIN TOWN HALL Saturday 13th November - Qualifying Rounds DP ‡ DP ‡ SP ‡ SP Programme £3 Admission FREE 6XQGD\ WK 1RYHPEHU ),1$/6 SP HPEHU ),1$/6 SP Tickets at door Adult dult – £7 (no concession) Children under 18 18 FREE Scott Adjudicators: Lucy Parham ham and Graham Scott Outstanding young pianists abroad compete ts from home and and a broad compe te ffor or a otalling £4000 share of prize money totalling -piano-competition.co.uk www.moray-piano-competition.co.uk Scottish Charity No.. SC032432 SC032432 The Moray Piano Festival Trust is a registeredd Sco ttish Char ity No

27 saturday & 28 sunday elgin model fair, 10am-5pm, organised by elgin model railway club, elgin town hall, ample parking, disabled access, adults ÂŁ4; children/ conc. ÂŁ2.50; family (2+2) ÂŁ9.50; children under 5 free, rail layouts in various scales; boats; planes; digital scalextric, etc. specialist hobby suppliers and refreshments, contact duncan macrae tel: 01343 546725 or 0775 905 4668 or modelfair@elginmodelrailwayclub.co.uk

28 sunday highland-russia connection charity fundraising concert, 3pm-5pm, newton hotel, nairn, tickets ÂŁ6/ÂŁ3 from ‘atmosphere’ tel: 451800 or for more info/tickets tel Elena 456245, come dressed as charlie chaplin or as your favourite film character www.highlandrussia.org.uk Advertise your event here from only ÂŁ23.00 plus VAT. Call 01309 690063 or email natalie@spotlighton.co.uk Deadline for December issue is Wednesday 10th November

the highland-russia connection charity presents “an epic russian adventure�, 7.30pm, st columba's church hall, nairn, an illustrated talk given by highland artist and firefighter, vicky stonebridge on her journey to a remote part of this vast country, for details of this event please phone 01667 456245

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26 friday, 27 saturday, 28 sunday christmas craft fair, brodie castle, tel: 0844 493 2156

27 saturday forres farmers market, frost fayre and craft market, 10am-2pm, in conjunction with andersons school christmas fair, on andersons playground and in forres community centre, local foods, arts and crafts for christmas, the big choir will be singing

page 12 - November 2010

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SpotLight - Nairn and District

SpotLight

AGRICULTURAL J A FORSYTH 01667 404257 Rosefield Farm Cawdor Nairn IV12 5RA PETER M. SMART CONTRACT01667 452719 Braevail Farm Lethen Nairn IV12 5LD ING

SCOT TRACK LTD 01667 455592 Unit 10d Balmakeith Industrial Estate Nairn IV12 5QW enquiries@scot-track.co.uk appliance repairs TULLOCH TIMBER (NAIRN) LTD 01667 452347 Grigorhill Sawmills

APPLIANCE REPAIRS Grigorhill Nairn IV12 5HX STEVE MITCHELL APPLIANCE REPAIRS 01667 461270 07968 810447 W MARSHALL Grigorhill Industrial Estate Granny Barbours Road Nairn IV12

BLACKSMITH/ ENGINEER W MCBEAN BLACKSMITHS 01667 453016 Burnside Smithy Lethen Nairn IV12 5PR BLACK ISLE BRONZE LTD. 01667 455172 4a Balmakeith Industrial Estate, Forres Road, Nairn IV12 5QW

BUILDERS A - Z ASSOCIATES 01667 455604 11 River Park Nairn IV12 5SP ALEC BARDEN KUDOS CONSTRUCTION 01667 455604 07990 534142 Torwood Moss-Side Road Nairn IV12 5NQ info@kudoskonstruct ion.co.uk G. F. JOB LTD 01667 451515 Unit 3&4 Grigorhill Industrial Estate Nairn IV12 5HX info@gfjob.co.uk HUGH B. LONG, BUILDERS 01667 456312 119 Beech Avenue Achareidh Nairn IV12 4ST

SpotLight - Nairn and District

KYLAUREN HOMES 01667 455157 Meadow Lea 5 Montgomery Drive Nairn IV12 5RW mikejack@jackcontr acts.co.uk KCB BUILDERS 01667 451106 07701 027177 68 Beech Avenue Achareidh Nairn IV12 4SY MAIN'S DOUBLE GLAZING & JOINERY SERVICES 01667 454397 07730 760729 Nairn IV12 mainsjoinery@aol.com MERVYN GRANT 01667 452619 2A, Wyvis Drive Achareidh Nairn IV12 4SU mervgra@btinternet.com MICHELLE SHEARER JOHN A. JACK CONTRACTS LTD 01667 455157 Units 5/6 Tom Semple Road,Et Balmakeith Industrial Estate, Nairn IV12 5QW info@jackcontracts.co.uk MG SMITH 01667 453905 0751 678 1956 Nairn R. MACLENNAN & SON 01667 456077 07703 128631 Nairn THE BRICKIES 01667 455931 21 John Street Nairn IV12 5DX

www.spotlighton.co.uk

W.A. SMITH JOINERS 01667 452084 34a Park Street Nairn IV12 4PN Robin.1888@btinternet.com VISTA DEVELOPMENT & CON-

07853 073140 Samuel Rodriguez West Lodge Achareidh Inverness Road Naira, IV12 5NA vistadc@hotmail.co.uk STRUCTION

CHIMNEY SWEEP JOHN CHALLIS JC CHIMNEY SWEEPS Westwood Little Mill Nairn IV12 5QL john@westwoodcatt ery.co.uk

CLEANING SERVICES BEE-ECO CLEANING SERVICES. 01667 455600 55 High Street Nairn IV12 4AG info@bee-eco.com MEGAPOWER-WASH 01667 455604 11 River Park Nairn IV12 5SP PERSONNEL HYGIENE SERVICES Unit 16 Balmakeith Industrial Estate Nairn IV12 November 2010 - page 13

RAPID-DRY 01667 455781 14 Lochdhu Gate Tradespark Nairn IV12 5PW WEELIE CLEAN SERVICES 01667 455061 22 John Street Queenspark Nairn IV12 5DR

COAL & SOLID FUEL F MILNE 01667 453316 8 Douglas Street Nairn IV12 4DJ GF FUEL 01667 455135 64 King Street Nairn IV12 4DN J F NESBITT 01667 404344 6 Blairmore Cawdor Nairn IV12 5RH GNEZZ@aol.com NAIRN FUEL SUPPLIES 01667 455035 Grigorhill Industrial Estate Granny Barbours Road Nairn IV12 5HY

DOUBLE GLAZING ALPHA PLUS WINDOWS & CONSERVATORIES 01667 451880 Unit 14B Balmakeith Industrial Estate

page 14 - Month 2010

Nairn alphapluswindows@btconn ect.com MAINS DOUBLE GLAZING & JOINERY 01667 454397 Culbin Lochloy Road Nairn IV12 5AF

DRIVING INSTRUCTORS IAN SMITH DRIVING TUITION 01667 451421 0776 959 0798 Nairn NAIRN SCHOOL OF MOTORING 01667 452516 Green Acres Moss-Side Nairn IV12 5NZ TWO WHEELERS SCHOOL OF MOTORCYCLING 01309 641427 Earlseat Moyness Nairn IV12 5LB

ELECTRICIANS BOB DARNLEY 01667 452126 0779 654 5879 Eastcraig Thurlow Road Nairn JASON MCCRUDEN ELECTRICAL SERVICES NAIRN 01667 456902 0777 3344 884 127b High Street Nairn IV12 4DS

JOHN WILSON 01667 452264 6 Forbes Drive Nairn IV12 4QY L MACLENNAN 07760 164777 S SMITH 01667 453011 07765 603980 1 Hawthaorn Gardens Achareidh Nairn

FARRIER T. BARRAT FARRIER DWCF, 01309 651229 New Inn Glenferness Nairn IV12 5UP

FENCING DENNIS SMITH FENCING 01667 404644 0777 4430760 Mid Urchany Cawdor Nairn IV12 5SF MORAY FIRTH FENCING 01667 404250 0777 4430760 Pineneuk Cawdor Nairn IV12 5RF

FURNITURE MAKERS J HARRIS 01667 493247 Drummore Of Cantray Cawdor Nairn, IV12 5XY

tel: 01309 690063

D MATTHEWS 01667 493492 The Steading Workshop Drummore Of Cantray Cawdor Nairn IV12 5XY enquiries@thesteadingworkshop.co.uk

GARDEN SERVICES GARY MECHAN NAIRNSHIRE GARDENING SERVICES 01667 455885 0770 457 0352 GRANT MUCKART GARDENING CONTRACTOR 01667 456288 First Floor Flat 1 Douglas Street Nairn IV12 4DJ GREENS NURSERIES 01667 452760 New Fleenas Farm Nairn IV12 5PX GROUND CARE SERVICES 0798 414 8437 MICHIE GARDEN SERVICES 01667 455539 11 Albyn Court Nairn IV12 5PX NEIL PEARS PEARS GARDEN SERVICES 01667 453132 RB LANDSCAPES 01667 455672 07731 750736

SpotLight - Nairn and District

JOINERS & GLAZIERS COLIN OWENS 01667 541475 07766 404436 DAVID ALEXANDER ALEXANDER JOINERY 01667 459276 07920 282405 4 Sutors Park Nairn david@alexanderjoinery. wanadoo.co.uk DENIS JOHNSTON 01667 454672 DUNCAN MCTAVISH 01667 453033 07860 404715 HIGHLAND JOINERY & GLAZING CONTRACTORS LTD 01667 462946 JOHN MACKENZIE JOINER 01667 454526 34b Park Street Nairn IV12 4PN IAN SMITH 01667 493310 Dixie Lodge Easter Galcantray Cawdor Nairn IV12 5XS LINDSAY CAMERON (JOINER) CONTRACTOR 01667 453968 8 George Wilson Road Auldearn Nairn IV12 5TN MORAY FIRTH JOINERS 01667 453717 Unit 4a Balmakeith Industrial Estate Nairn IV12 5QW SpotLight - Nairn and District

PETER RALPH RALPH JOINERY 01667 452321

LOGISTICS / VAN HIRE COUTTS & CO 01667 453261 Newton Of Park Farm Nairn Auldearn Nairn IV12 5HY

Crockery Call or vist Cutlery our website to see our full Glassware range and price lists Linen Buffet Items

Tables

Chairs

Dance Floors

www.northofscotlandmarqees.com

PRONTO DESPATCH LTD 01667 452155 Grigorhill Industrial Estate Granny Barbours Road Nairn IV12 5HX prontodl@globalnet.co.uk

W.W. GIBSON PAINTER & DECORATOR 01667 454335 Glenappin Crescent Road Nairn

WORKFORCE PLUS 01667 454253 The Cottage Auchnacloich Farm Nairn IV12 5QF

DA MACRAE 01667 453727 07901 666921 Unit 5/6 Balmakeith Industrial Estate Nairn IV12 5QW

MARQUEE HIRE NORTH OF SCOTLAND MARQUEES 01667 455116 Unit 15c Balmakeith Industrial Estate Nairn IV12 5QW enquiries@northofscotlandmarquees.com

PAINTER & DECORATOR

J. PARISH 01667 455188 7 Park Street Nairn IV12 4PL GEORGE SMITH 01667 453802 8 Lochloy Avenue Nairn IV12 5AW I WISEMAN PAINTER & DECORATOR 01667 454331 17 Park Street Nairn IV12 4PL

PLANT & MACHINERY HIRE KINNAIRD PLANT & MACHINERY HIRE 01667 454036 Cairnfield, Moyness Road Auldearn Nairn IV12 5TW SHEARER PLANT & MACHINERY HIRE 01667 452645 Grigorhill Industrial Estate Granny Barbours Road Nairn IV12 5HY

PLASTERER A & S PLASTERING (01667) 452970 20 Shore Street Nairn IV12 4PX angus@thegunns.net ME HUGHES 01667 462601 07828 459792

G. FERGUSON 01667 455981 13 Acre Street Nairn, IV12 4AD www.spotlighton.co.uk

November 2010 - page 15

PLUMBER CJC PLUMBING 0800 0234 734 0771 7414 593 GARY REID REID PLUMBING & HEATING 01667 456561 0770 445 0363 Sketra, Glebe Road Nairn IV12 4ED gary@reid-plumbing.co.uk JCEE PLUMBING & HEATING 01667 455669 Unit 5/6 Balmakeith Industrial Estate Nairn IV12 5QW info@jceeplumbing.co.uk WM COPE & SON 01667 453124 3 Society Street Nairn plumber PH2O 07765 936116 Nairn J. WILSON 01667 456842 07828 747122 Harbour Street Nairn

PLUMBING HEATING FITTERS DANNY DUNCAN DUNCAN PLUMBING & HEATING (01667) 455078 31 Wyvis Drive Nairn IV12 4TP MERIDIAN 24-HOUR PLUMBING SERVICES 08003 282725 / 01667 page 16 - Month 2010

451110 8 Crescent Road, Nairn IV12 4NB W.M. COPE & SON (01667) 453124 23 Society Street Nairn IV12 4PF

PORTABLE ACCOM & CABINS SCOTIA KABINS 01667 452561 Delnies Woods Nairn IV12 5NX

PRINTERS PICCOLO PRESS 01667 454508 90 Harbour Street Nairn IV12 4PG print@piccolopress.co.uk

SECURITY ALBA FIRE EXTINGUISHERS 01667 455751 6 Albemarle Place Douglas Street Nairn IV12 4DL

ROOFING NORTHERN ROOFING 01667 404464 07518 404212 R. SHARP ROOFING 01667 456183

TIMBER/JOINERY PRODUCTS

BOB BARTON ELECTRICAL SERVICES 01667 456412 9 Wyvis Road Nairn IV12 5NR bob@bartonelectrical.co.uk MORAY SECURITY 01309 672117 7 High Street Nairn IV12 4AG bob@bartonelectrical.co.uk SENSORMATIC CAMERA LTD 01667 454868 C/O GM Petrol Services King Street Nairn IV12 4DN

ROSS TIMBER PRODUCTS 01667 455015 The Pines Newlands Of Delnies Nairn IV12 5NX

TREE SURGEONS COLIN SETH THE SPECIAL BRANCH 01667 455873 15 Wyvis Road Nairn IV12 5NR colin. seth@thespecialbranchtreeservices.co.uk SETH GILL WYVIS TREE & GARDEN SERVICES 15 Wyvis Road Nairn IV12 5NR seth.gill@btinternet.com

SKIP-HIRE

PRE - CAST CHISHOLM'S PRECAST 01667 452219 7 & 8 Balmakeith Ind. Est. Nairn IV12 5QW

WILLIAMSON'S 01667 452225

NAIRN SKIP HIRE 01667 452645 Grigorhill Industrial Estate Granny Barbours Road Nairn IV12 5HY info@xplosive-entertainments.co.uk

WINDOW BLINDS A1 BLINDS LTD 01667 453131 Unit 14 Balmakeith Ind Estate Nairn IV12 5QW a1blindsltd@aol.com

TAXIS CAWDOR & RIVERSIDE TAXI'S 01667 404315 Nairn MORAY TAXIS (NAIRN) 01667 455552

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight - Nairn and District

Moray Playhouse, Elgin

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

Portessie Public Hall

Cinema Listings November 2010

Regular films including Saturday matinees.

For further details email portessiepublichall@hotmail.co.uk

Vue Cinema, Inverness

From 5th November Let Me In Faster From 12th November Skyline From 19th November Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows : Part 1

KidsAM - Every Saturday & Sunday at 10.15am - 95p per ticket Seniors Club - Every Tuesday at 12.30pm - £3 inc. refreshments NEW Teen Screen Every Thursday & Friday £1.95 2D or £2.95 3D

Eden Court Theatre, Inverness The Town The Wildest Dream Certified Copy Krabat The Edukators plus many others

Visit www.myvue.com for details

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

Cinema Nairn

20th November 7.30pm Snow Falling On Cedars (15)

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

Universal Hall, Findhorn

Showing films throughout the year. Visit www.findhorn.org/uhall or call 01309 691170 for details.

SpotLight - Nairn and District

www.spotlighton.co.uk

November 2010 - page 17

®

SpotLight Council News

EXTRACTS FROM THE DRAFT MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF 21ST SEPTEMBER 2010 OF NAIRN WEST COMMUNITY COUNCIL

Lodgehill Clinic Re-Development 31 objections had been received and as a consequence RY had invited Prof Paddy Maher (co-coordinator of the local residents) to give a short presentationt.

RY told the audience she had invited both the site owners, the prospective builders Morrisons and their architect to be present to support the application, but they had declined. The architect had mentioned however, he would be willing to meet with any or all on an alternative date. Prof Mayer outlined the various objections that had been raised by residents both in the Nairn West patch and also in River. The main objections were summarised as in breach of • Scottish Planning Policy Para 37 for protection and enhance of landscape natural built and cultural heritage & paras 77 +78 “design of new housing should reflect character and local materials.

• Nairnshire local Plan defines Lodgehill Rd as S2 area where the Council will safeguard the Character of established residential areas, the Edwardian and Victorian character and Skyline.

• Highland structure Plan G2 also requires developments to be in keeping with local Character and Historic features.

• HWDP policy 29 & 30 not only endorses this but 30 continues to state that “people of all abilities should be able to move safely and conveniently within the development.” It was agreed by all present that the proposed development was in direct contravention of all of the above as it was out of scale, out of character, too dense and most particularly too high.

• The absence of lifts suggests that as occupants age they would be unable to access their flats on the upper floors, posing the social problems Para 30 was intended to prevent.

• There was considerable concern that there was hugely inadequate parking within the site, only five when the provision of upper floor two storey flats must lead to many of these being occupied by dual career couples and families with more than one car. The commandeering of roadside car parking spaces used by

page 18 - November 2010

visitors to neighbouring properties and parents dropping children at Millbank Primary is seen as totally unacceptable.

Sufficient parking for all units should be provided within the site. It is noted that the Fairhurst Traffic Statement only assesses traffic movements and makes no assessment of parking requirements.

• It was further commented that it is unclear whether HWDP 30 implies that there should be facilities for the parking and charging of electric scooters for elderly residents within the site which the ground floor flats must be likely to attract.

• The re-routing of the public footpath through the development past the windows of the ground floor flats would create considerable disturbance to those residents due to the considerable pedestrian flows to and from the Academy.

While the community councillors had no objection in principle to this site being used for residential development, this particular proposal was considered wholly inappropriate and a vote was unanimously carried to object to the development as proposed.

Town Centre Development RY said she thought the Victorian building next to the old Community Centre (old Police Station) is an important and historic feature of the town and should not be raised to the ground. The opinion was endorsed by many at the meeting. Simply going for a quick financial return by filling the area with Flatted developments which would preclude the possibility of rejuvenating the Town Centre was absolutely not what Nairn’s Residents wished to see. BS summarised the main issues as:1) Present Council draft inadequate, inappropriate, lacking in imagination. Housing and parking not the way to create a welcoming face for the Town Centre.

2) Need for alternative and more imaginative visions. Must not be forced into choosing least-bad of two undesirable housing options. HC should raise its sights, run a competition.... invite ideas, think of how to revive existing historic buildings and enhance wider range of activities in town centre.

tel: 01309 690063

3) Planning for this site has to be integrated with, and take account of, a coherent wider vision for the future development of the Town Centre as a whole (High St, Bus station, proposals for Cawdor Rd etc).

4) Timing: the public are understandably impatient. But 4 weeks is wholly inadequate for consideration of the future of such a key site. Better to take longer and do it right. Endorsing a bad brief in haste could leave us worse off than no decision at all, and going ahead with a lousy proposal will shut off more desirable & sensible possibilities.

Common Good GV had written on behalf of NWCC to Fergus Ewing regarding the powers Highland Council considered that it had over Nairn’s Common Good Fund. HC’s response to Fergus Ewing was most concerning as it seemed to contradict Councillor Sandy Park’s assertion that no decisions over Nairn’s Common Good could be made without the agreement of the local elected Members. It was felt essential that the locally accountable elected Members must have a right of veto over application of Nairn’s Common Good Funds and should consult local residents prior to any major decisions.

Dogs on Central Beach RY had contacted Louise and at the moment nothing is concluded. The signs will come down and our request which has been repeated to have Polite Notices asking people to leave central beach ‘dog free’ for families. Confirmed our offer to part fund these signs.

Police Report Sgt. Olga Hansen reported that there had been a decrease in crime in the previous month. They had finished the bottle marking pilot which did seem to have reduced under age drinking. This also suggested that young persons were being provided with alcohol by ‘of age’ friends rather than buying it directly.

Time, date and place of next meeting November meeting will be on 16th November 2010, with a possible joint meeting of all 3 CC’s in December.

SpotLight - Nairn and District

T.N.T. Gardens

DECEMBER 2010 in brief 1 wednesday aly bain & phil cunningham, 7.30pm, universal hall, findhorn, ÂŁ16/ÂŁ14, contact 01309 690110 3 friday a christmas carol, 8pm, universal hall, findhorn, ÂŁ10/ÂŁ8/ÂŁ6 u’16s, contact 01309 690110 8 wednesday highland rock garden club - ‘the eastern alps’ by jim jermyn author of “the alpine plants of europeâ€?, 7.30pm, nairn community & arts centre, tel: 01309 641405 10 friday dyke garden club - ‘christmas night’ details to be agreed, 7.30pm, dyke village hall, contact 01309 641342 / 641565 11 saturday farmers’ market, from 10am-2pm, anderson’s school playground, locally produced beef, cheeses, bread, fish, eggs, vegetables, chocolate, preserves and arts and crafts, contact anne marie 01309 691616 18 saturday cinema nairn - the pink panther (PG), 7.30pm, nairn community centre, king street, nairn, ÂŁ4 aduts/ÂŁ3 under 18’s, visit www.cinemanairn.blogspot.com for details

Bespoke Garden design

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November 2010 - page 19

®

SpotLight Chef’s Confidential

Parsnip Veloute

Now that the weather will be getting colder I thought that I would bring along a soup to the table.

Veloute translates as ‘velvety’ in French, it is a very rich, smooth and filling soup and it is a very big seller in our restaurant. The base for the soup remains the same - it is just the core flavour, in this case parsnips, that change. So, you could use any thing from artichoke to zucchini, my personal favourites are cauliflower, parsnip and carrot. The key to getting this soup velvety is cooking the ingredients until they are very soft, then liquidising and then passing them through a sieve. So onto the recipe that is basic as it only has four base ingredients, but is extremely worthwhile and will please your family or your dinner guests.

Serves 4-6 approx 4 Large Parsnips 1 Large Onion 125g Slightly Salted Butter 500ml Double Cream (it must be double for cooking) 1 Pint of Water Salt to season and pepper if you must Peel the parnips, quarter them, take out centre stalk by cutting at an angle to remove, this is so your soup cooks quicker and to maintain smoothness.

Peel the onion and slice roughly, put parsnips, onions, butter, cream and water into a large pan, making sure all ingredients are covered by the liquid and cook until very soft. Liquidise until smooth, pass through your finest sieve, taste and season if necessary, then serve. If it is slightly thick you can add water to reach your desired texture. I would serve this with parsnip crisps and a wee splash of white truffle oil.

Peel one large parsnip, cut the top and tail off, if you have a mandolin slice thinly remembering to use it's guard, if you don’t have a mandolin just use a good potato peeler to peel strips from top to bottom. Then place the strips of parsnips into a metal or glass bowl and cover with boiled water and a teaspoon of salt, cover with cling film and allow to cool naturally, once they have cooled, remove from water and place on a tea towel and pat them dry, then put them into a deep fat fryer at 180°c until they crispen. The point of putting them in water and salt is to maintain as much of the natural white colour as possible (some food science happens along the way!)

Next month I will bring you a good and hearty winter warmer main course, just like we are serving in The Grill for this season, where we are concentrating on homely feel good food such as Fish and Chips, our ever popular Steaks and the classic Sticky Toffee Pudding which featured in last month’s issue. These traditional dishes will run alongside the existing seasonal menu.

Parsnip Crisps Happy Cooking!

1 Large Parsnip Teaspoon of Salt Boiling Water

page 20 - November 2010

P et e r N or r i e, H e a d C h e f K n o c k o m i e H o t e l , F o rr e s t e l : 01 3 09 67 3 1 46 tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight - Nairn and District

N PE YS O DA 7

Fall into Winter... ...this Christmas

Knockomie is celebrating in style!

Our festive menus start at only £16.50

for lunch and £25.00 for dinner.

We can cater for private parties up to 40 guests.

of

Our Christmas menus are available from Saturday 27th November – Thursday 23rd December 2010

Our New Years Eve Gourmet dinner is £80.00 per person and

includes a Disco and our own Fireworks to welcome in 2011!

We also have a three night New Years Break available. Enjoy a relaxing or adventurous Hogmany break at Knockomie - it’s your choice. For full details and menus or to make a reservation call us on 01309 673146 or e-mail stay@knockomie.co.uk

knockomie

LOGIE STEADING CAFE

near Forres

GIFTS ART GALLERY

FARM & GARDEN SHOP

ANTIQUES & RESTORATION

SECONDHAND BOOKS

RIVERWALK AND PLAYGROUND

New Winter Menu... ...homemade and delicious.

HOTEL

6 miles south of Forres on A940

www.knockomie.co.uk

www.logie.co.uk

Tel: 01309 673146 Grantown Road, Forres

01309 611378

Enjoy a sumptuous Christmas meal

FOR ALL YOUR DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL SERVICE NEEDS

DRY CLEANING? WE CAN-DO IT!

IRONING, LAUNDRY, DRY CLEANING, CARPETS & UPHOLSTERY HOUSE CLEARANCES, GARDEN TIDYING AND MORE

1A HARBOUR STREET, NAIRN - 01667 452211 ALSO AT 22 HIGH STREET, FORRES

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SpotLight

Useful Contacts Holidays and Tide Times

SCHOOLS Auldearn Primary School ............................(01667) 452118 Cawdor Primary School ..............................(01667) 402460 Millbank Primary School..............................(01667) 452240 Rosebank Primary School ..........................(01667) 454090 Nairn Academy ............................................(01667) 453700 Moray College Nairn Learning ....................(01667) 456759

DOCTORS Nairn Hospital A&E .....................................(01667) 452101 The Lodgehill Clinic ....................................(01667) 452096 Arderseir Medical Practice ..........................(01667) 452278 Nairn Sports Medicine Clinic ......................(01667) 454523 DENTISTS Jones Jones & Behrendt ............................(01667) 453189 RM Donald & Associates ............................(01667) 454603 PHARMACIES Lloyds Pharmacy ........................................(01667) 453100 Boots The Chemist ......................................(01667) 453169

VETS Moray Coast ................................................(01667) 453161 Inshes Veterinary Clinic Inverness ..............(01463) 711777

Police Station ..............................................(01667) 452222 Stagecoach Inverness .................................(01463) 239292 Citizens Advice Bureau ...............................(01667) 456677 Nairn Museum ............................................(01667) 456791 Dalcross Airport .............................(01667) 464000/462280 Inverness Job Centre ....................(01463) 888100/888200 Highland Council ........................................(01667) 458500 Victim Support ............................................(01463) 710806 Samaritans ..................................................(01463) 713456 Gas - Emergency ............................................(0800 111999 Water - Emergency ........................................08456 008855 British Red Cross Inverness ........................(01463) 231620 Crossroads ..................................................(01667) 455369 National Rail Enquiries ..................................08457 484950 If you have any suggestions for additional useful numbers please email these to us on admin@spotlighton.co.uk

Holiday Dates 2010 / 2011 Inverness Holiday St Andrews Day Christmas Day * Boxing Day * New Years Day * 2nd January * Good Friday

Monday 1st November Monday 30th November Monday 27th December Tuesday 28th December Monday 3rd January Tuesday 4th January Friday 22nd April

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

M T W TH F SA SU

01.07 02.16 03.14 04.04 04.49 05.31 06.10

13.31 14.49 15.40 16.27 17.09 17.50 18.29

page 22 - November 2010

8 M 9 T 10 W 11 TH 12 F 13 SA 14 SU 15 M 16 T 17 W 18 TH 19 F

Early May Bank Holiday Monday 2nd May Spring Bank Holiday Monday 30th May Summer Bank Holiday Monday 1st August St Andrews Day Wednesday 30th November Christmas Day * Monday 26th December Boxing Day * Tuesday 27th December * substitue day AM 06.48 07.26 08.00 08.00 08.21 09.16 10.41 01.18 02.15 02.54 03.17 03.43

PM 19.10 19.55 20.44 21.40 22.45 23.59 13.26 14.25 15.05 15.38 16.15

tel: 01309 690063

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

AM 04.20 05.01 05.42 06.21 06.57 07.26 07.27 08.11 09.36 10.56 00.23

PM 16.52 17.31 18.10 18.51 19.32 20.19 21.14 22.12 23.15 12.06

SpotLight - Nairn and District

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SpotLight School Term Dates

Term Dates for 2009/2010 (all dates inclusive) Regional Closure

Monday 25th October 2010

Winter Term Starts

Tuesday 26th October 2010

Winter Term Ends Thursday 23rd December 2010 Spring Term Starts

Monday 10th January 2011

Holiday Closure

Monday 14th February 2011

Holiday Closure

Tuesday 15th February 2011

Regional Closure

Wed. 16th February 2011

Regional Closure

Thursday 17th February 2011

Regional Closure

Friday 18th February 2011

Spring Term Ends

Friday 8th April 2011

Good Friday Holiday

Friday 22nd April 2011

Easter Monday Holiday

Mon. 25th April 2011

Summer Term Starts

Tuesday 26th April 2011

May Day Holiday

Monday 2nd May 2011

Summer Term Ends

Friday 1st July 2011

Term Dates for 2011/2012 (all dates inclusive) Autumn Term Starts

Tuesday 16th August 2011

Autumn Term Ends

Friday 7th October 2011

Regional Closure

Monday 24th October 2011

Winter Term Starts

Tuesday 25th October 2011

Winter Term Ends

Thu. 22nd December 2011

Spring Term Starts

Monday 9th January 2012

Regional Closure

Wed. 15th February 2012

Regional Closure

Thursday 16th February 2012

Regional Closure Summer Term Ends

Friday 17th February 2012 Friday 29th June 2012

for 2012/2013 (all dates inclusive) Autumn Term Starts Tuesday 14th August 2012 Autumn Term Ends Friday 5th October 2012 Regional Closure Monday 22nd October 2012 Winter Term Starts Tuesday 23rd October 2012 Winter Term Ends Thursday 20th December 2012 page 24 - November 2010

Spring Term Starts Monday 7th January 2013 Holiday Closure Monday 11th February 2013 Holiday Closure Tuesday 12th February 2013 Regional Closure Wed. 13th February 2013 Regional Closure Thursday 14th February 2013 Regional Closure Friday 15th February 2013 Spring Term Ends Thursday 28th March 2013 Good Friday Holiday Friday 29th March 2013 Easter Monday Holiday Monday 1st April 2013 Summer Term Starts Tuesday 15th April 2013 May Day Holiday Monday 6th May 2013 Summer Term Ends Friday 28th June 2013

“ Parliament Blog ”

Last month saw the ann ua l rituals of the party conferences played out.

Politics is a serious business at the moment – and it needs to be.

That does not mean that there are not lighter moments and, in an effort to cheer us all up, one of the broadcasters appeared at each conference with a political ‘top trumps’ game which they have produced.

As you might imagine, the task of scoring politicians on the basis of their various attributes is not without its hazards. Inevitably the most talked about score was what they have called ‘fanciability’.

They say: “There’s no accounting for taste but we’ve given it a go.”

It would be invidious of me to disclose here precisely where the supposed ‘panel of political experts’ placed me. Suffice it to say that I am deemed slightly better looking than my dashing colleague Vince Cable, but lag considerably behind poor old David Miliband whose good looks inexplicably failed to sway the Trade Union vote. We are all in the shadow of Conservative MP for Richmond Park, Zac Goldsmith, who scores a perfect 100.

As a proud Highlander, whether a compliment is intended or not, I take some consolation from the description of me in the accompanying blurb as ‘The government’s most powerful ginger!”

D an ny A le x and e r MP

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SpotLight Advertisers Index

1st Pizza Direct....................................................................2 Alastair Munro Plumbing & Heating ................................26 Bakehouse Cafe................................................................21 Beaver Travel ......................................................................5 Caledonian Kilts ................................................................21 Can-Do Services........................................Front Cover, 7,21 Carrobes IT........................................................................19 East Grange Activity Centre ..............................................19 Firefly IT Solutions..............................................Front Cover Gold 375 ..............................................Outside Back Cover Golf View Hotel..................................................................10 Gordon Scott Chartered Accountant ................................26 JC Chimney Sweep ..........................................................26 Knockomie Hotel ..............................................................21 Les Hester Photography ..................................................26 Logie Steading ..................................................................21 Mackenzie & Cruickshank ..................................................9 McDonald & Munro ............................................................7

SpotLight - Nairn and District

Moray Art Centre ..............................................................23 Moray Coast Veterinary Group ..........................Front Cover Moray Piano Competition ................................................12 Nairn Community & Arts Centre ......................................12 Nairn Leisure ....................................................................27 North of Scotland Marquees ............................................15 Potty Expressions..............................................................25 Robertson Homes ............................................................25 Roof Wizard ........................................................................7 Smith & Castle Jewellers ..................................................25 Sylvan Firewood..................................................................7 The Loft Venue ....................................................................5 Tinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Childminding Service ............................................26 TNT Gardens ....................................................................19 Unique Beauty ..................................................Front Cover Universal Hall ....................................................................12 Victoria Hotel ....................................................................26 Vista Development & Construction ..................................26 Wheelchair Care................................................................19

www.spotlighton.co.uk

November 2010 - page 27