FEBRUARY 2014
NAI R N & D I S T RI C T THE NORTH’S FAVOURITE FREE WEE MAG
This Month Wedding Feature COCO
COCO
chocolaterie t café t patisserie t glacerie
1 High Street, Inverness IV1 1HY 01463 229734 Info@so-coco.co.uk
The best Coffee, Hot Chocolate and Churro in town!
Winter Warmer Offer Large Luxury Hot Chocolate or large Latte with Churros for one only £5.00
This space could have been promoting your business! SpotLight covers six areas along the Moray Firth Coastline from Buckie & Keith across to Inverness and then down to Aviemore - and all the places in between!
Contact us for details of rates and sizes: (01309) 690063
GOLF VIEW HOTEL & SPA, NAIRN
Sapvtoe u £242
New Year, New You .... with our leisure club 12 months for the price of 9 months
To book or for more information please call 01667 452 301 or email leisure.golfview@crerarhotels.com TWO E CO U R S
Traditional Sunday Lunch
9.95
£
per perso
in the Conservatory
n
THREE CO U R S E
Every Sunday from 12.30pm to 3.30pm
£12.95 per person
Afternoon tea Available daily from 2pm-5pm Please book in advance.
Steak Night Every Thursday night from 6.30pm
FROM ONLY
£15.95 per person
Choose from our succulent prime rib eye (£15.95), sirloin (£17.95) or fillet steak (£18.95). All include Portobello flat cap mushroom, beef tomato, onion rings and proper chips.
ONLY
£19.95
Includes a half bottle of specially selected red wine per person.
for two
To book or for more information please call 01667 452 301 GOLF VIEW HOTEL & SPA The Seafront, 63 Seabank Road, Nairn IV12 4HD
Telephone: 01667 452 301 Email: sales.golfview@crerarhotels.com
WWW.CRERARHOTELS.COM
Full Crerar Hotels terms and conditions apply.
Use our website enquiry form at: www.1renewables/get-in-touch.php
INVESTORS WANTED JOIN OUR GROWING LIST OF INVESTORS IN SINGLE TURBINES 1 RENEWABLES LTD, a local wind-power company, seeks investors for renewables projects secured by the UK Government Feed-in Tariff. Our 1st portfolio is now almost fully funded by a combination of large and small investors, with 2nd and 3rd portfolios developing. Minimum amount 5k, no maximum amount. Excellent returns for 20 year FiT programme, or for shorter periods if preferred. Corporate and personal guarantees provided. CONTACT
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curves.co.uk
01667 452737
3 Critical Features to demand from Your New Vet... Moving to a new area is a challenging process for your family, your pet will be stressed by the process as well. At Moray Coast Vet Group we want you to know that we are here to help you and your pets settle into the area. Why would you use us? Well it’s simple really, we have been vets in this area for a very long time and can offer your pet the following 3 critical benefits: to a Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Accredited Practice, Access meaning your pet will be treated to the highest standards. convenient surgery locations making it easy to get to us Four day and night. and well equipped surgeries meaning we can treat all routine Modern conditions without the need to refer your pet. So all you need to do now, for peace of mind for you and your pet, is call us to say ‘hello’ and we will do all that is necessary to register your pet with our practice. Oh, and we will call your old vet to request your pet’s existing notes, so we can be familiar with everything we need to know. Now that is peace of mind for your pet.
Call us now on: CARING FOR YOUR COMPANIONS
Forres Surgery (main branch) 01309 672243 Nairn Surgery 01667 453161 Lossiemouth Surgery 01343 815335 Balloch Surgery 01463 794224 24 HOUR EMERGENCY NUMBER 01309 672243 www.moraycoastvetgroup.co.uk
CLUBS & SOCIETIES CAWDOR CURLING CLUB Call 404291 or 07831 760049 or email dave_rob@hotmail.com INVERNESS HOSPITAL RADIO Email requests to be played for someone in Raigmore Hospital, Inverness to: requests@invernes shospitalradio.co.uk. We are looking for ward visitors and technical team members. Email: enquiry@invernesshospitalradio .co.uk Contact Mr Atholl Menzies tel: 704500/704501 LGBT 5K RUNNING GROUP Wednesdays, 6pm, Inverness Leisure. www.gay-ness.org.uk Text / call 07941 553620 or email jampa40@yahoo.co.uk MORAY & NAIRN FLORAL ART CLUB Wednesdays, 7.30pm, Ramnee Hotel, Forres. Friendship through flowers. Demonstration exhibits raffled. New members welcome. Further details contact Chrissie on 01309 673431 or Jean on 01309 673552 MORAY & NAIRN PONY CLUB Contact 01309 641483 or email willandjudith@btopenworld.com www.pcuk.org
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page 4 - February 2014
MORAY ADVANCE MOTORISTS & MOTORCYCLISTS Reg. Scottish Charity SC 033561 visit www.morayiam.org.uk or call 01309 673954 NAIRN EQUESTRIAN FUN CLUB Contact 01309 641474 NAIRN BAPTIST CHURCH KRAFT CLUB Meets alternate Thursdays form 2-4pm at Blossoms Cafe on the Brae. Contact number 01667 453289 NAIRN SWIMMING CLUB (NDASC) Swimmers aged 7 & up. Trained to compete and for fitness & fun. www.ndasc.co.uk NAIRN PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY AND CAMERA CLUB Tuesdays at 7:30pm in Nairn Community Centre. Sept - April. For info contact Dave Freeman (President) on 360026 or email dave@nairncameraclub.co.uk NAIRN ROAD RUNNERS Thursdays, 7.30pm club night at the Maggot. Small, friendly club catering for all running abilities. Call Louise Scott on 451835 info@nairnroadrunners.co.uk www.nairnroadrunners.co.uk NAIRN SAILING CLUB (NSC) Friendly club offering dinghy & cruiser sailing for all levels and ages. Beginners welcome. Regular social events at our clubhouse at Nairn Harbour. www.nairnsailingclub.co.uk nairnsailingclub@yahoo.co.uk NAIRN SCHOOL OF DANCING Wednesdays 3.30pm at the British Legion Hall. Contact Mrs Fraser 01463 729477 NAIRN SYNCHRO SWIMMING CLUB A sport with a difference. Nairn synchro has both international and national swimmers. Email wyn.mcfadyen@tesco.net or call 454223 NAIRNSHIRE FARMING SOCIETY Contact 01667 452760 or email secretary@nairnshow.org.uk
NAIRN YOUTH CLUB Contact 453476 NAIRN WINE CIRCLE Home wine making. Meetings held through the year. New members welcome. Contact Rosemary on 454019 or Chris on 452000. Website: nairnwinewinecircle.org.uk ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION (RAFA) 2nd Tuesday of the month, 8pm, Royal British Legion, Nairn. Offering friendship & welfare support to serving & ex-serving members of the RAF and their families. ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Entertainment & dancing every weekend. Highland Hall function suite available for weddings & parties of all sizes. Call 453201
SALTIRE SOCIETY HIGHLAND BRANCH Saturday mornings, Inverness for talks on a wide range of Scottish topics. St Andrews Day celebrations, Burns lunch & summer outing. Call Alan Niven on 01667 459449 or email: alan.niven@hotmail.com SEAFORTH CLUB Private members club, guests & visitors to a warm, comfortable and friendly environment. Weekend entertainment, incl. bingo & dancing to live music. Contact 452509 SOUNDS DEEP MEN’S CHOIR Alternate Tuesdays 7.30pm9.30pm at St. John’s Church, Forres. All kinds of music. No experience necessary. Contact Bill 01309 672951 for more details.
plumbers electricians shopping professionals dentists builders hotels cleaning health fashion eating training gardening plumbers electricians shopping professionals dentists builders hotels cleaning health fashion eating training gardening plumbers electricians shopping professionals dentists builders hotels cleaning health fashion eating training gardening plumbers electricians shopping professionals dentists builders hotels cleaning health CLEANING SPORT & LEISURE
BUSINESS & TRADES DIRECTORY
Merry Maids of Inverness and East Highland
Beaver Travel
Domestic Cleaning (Regular; one-off; end-of-tenancy; builders)
Forres: 01309 672203. Elgin: 01343 548844. www.beavtrav.com
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PROPERTY SERVICES Time-to-Let Property Letting Agency Services
01309 651258 / 07796 200640 timetolet@btinternet.com www.time-to-let.co.uk
tel: 01309 690063
Tel: 01309 271158 Mob: 07879 265063 www.moraylocksmith.co.uk info@moraylocksmith.co.uk facebook.com/moraylocksmith
admin@spotlighton.co.uk
The Editor
I saw a TV documentary recently about the Roman Invasions and whether or not the phrase veni, vidi, vici (which I am told means I came, I saw, I conquered) was actually used or not. I guess we will never know but it did make me think about my own Christmas Day and the phrase that comes to mind for me was “I woke, I rose, I survived the day!” At least for another year anyway!
PUBLISHER ..............David Nelmes SALES ......................... Peter Evans ACCOUNTS ...................Wendy Day DESIGN .................Alistair Davidson LAYOUT .................Tamsyn Dickson
March Issue Deadlines
VALENTINE’S at the
The Newton Hotel
Menu Confit Duck Terrine Spiced Carrot Jam, Red Onion Chutney Roulade of Smoked Salmon Apple and Creamed Horseradish Salad, Parsley Dressing Wild Mushroom Bruschetta Poached Free Range Egg, Hollandaise Sauce Plum Tomato and Sherry Soup with Basil Crouton
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Raspberry Sorbet Roast Chicken Breast Potato Fondant, Truffle Green Beans, Sweet Roasted Carrot, Jus Roti Crisp Sea Bream Fillet Fennel Croquettes, Buttered Baby Spinach, Citrus Fruits, Fresh Coriander Organic Beetroot Risotto Medallion of Grilled Goats Cheese Hot Chocolate Fondant Fresh Raspberries
Friday 14th & Saturday 15th February
Editorial - Friday 31/01/14 Advertising - Wednesday 05/02/14
Lemon Tart with Vanilla Cream Strawberry Panna Cotta Blueberry Compote
To book Contact Hannah on 01667 459001 or email sales.newton@bespokehotels.com.
goeasy Forres Precast
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We offer FREE estimates and advice so we can help you plan your garden. You can choose your own slabs or brick work colour and any type of stone.
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PASTORAL LETTER & CHURCH MEETINGS If I am spared, by the time this article is published, I will have just celebrated my 52nd birthday on 19 January 2014. One week later, at the age of 2714 weeks old, I will have clocked up 19,000 days of life (if you can find a ‘Happy 19,000th Birthday’ card please send it to me!) I share a birthday (not the year!) with some famous people of the past, (like scientist James Watt, painter Paul Cezanne, and writer Edgar Allan Poe), and of the present, (like racing-driver Jenson Button, actor Michael Crawford, and country-music legend Dolly Parton). Maybe some future superhero will join our elite birthday club in 2014! Approximately 337,000 other babies were born on the same day as me, though I’ve never knowingly met any of them. The most famous ones seem to be Chris Sabo (successful American baseball player), Jeff van Gundy (successful American basketball coach), and Hans Daams (Dutch cyclist who represented his country at the 1984 Olympics). I’d never heard of any of them until I looked this up, and they’ve never heard of me either – we simply arrived in the world on the same day. Two days earlier, and 3264 miles away
from my appearance in Glasgow, Jim Carrey was born in Newmarket, Ontario, Canada. Now, him I have heard of! He’s one of the biggest movie-stars in Hollywood and many of us have probably enjoyed at least some of his films. He’s won two Golden Globe awards, and is worth around $150m. It wasn’t always that way. He knew a lot of poverty and hardship in his early life and realises that ‘if my career in show-business hadn’t panned out, I’d probably be working today in Hamilton, Ontario in the Dofasco steel mill.’ Ah, that little word ‘if…’! I guess he feels how fortunate he is that events have turned out the way they have – things could have been very different. Apart from all being born the same week I may have very little in common with Chris, Jeff, Hans and Jim. Are our lives just random accidents? Is there anything more to life than that some are fortunate, gifted, and talented, and that others are less so? Some get the breaks and some don’t? I wouldn’t swap with Jim for anything, (and I’m sure he wouldn’t swap with me supposing he knew I existed!) I’m not sure I’d trust myself to live a very spiritual life with $150m in the bank, and with a Hollywood lifestyle, and I’m
Ardersier with Petty Parish Church, Church of Scotland Sundays 10.15am. Petty Sundays 12 noon.Tel: 01667 462224. Nairn Baptist Church Nairn Community Centre. Sundays 11am. Contact the pastor: 01667 459672 or secretary 01667 452351 or visit www.nairnbaptistchurch.org.uk Auldearn and Dalmore Parish Church Sundays 12noon. Contact Rev. Ricky Reid: 01667 451675. Cawdor Parish Church Sunday 10.15am. Contact Rev. JS Mathieson: 01667 493217. Nairn Free Church Sundays 11am with Sunday school and crèche (Gordon St). Evening 6pm (Gordon St). Youth club for S1 up on Wednesday at 6.30pm (Rosebank Hall). Prayer and Bible study Thursday 11am or 7:30pm onalternate weeks (Gordon Street). Minister Murdo MacLeod: 01667 459131. Nairn Christian Fellowship Sundays 10.30am. Wednesday 7.30pm: praise & Bible study. Sandy Shaw: 01667 456492. Old Parish Church 10.30am: holiday worship and crèche. Contact Rev. Alistair S Younger: 01463 242873.
page 6 - February 2014
very content with, and thankful for, my own life and family. Jim’s first marriage ended around the time my son was born and, by the time my daughter was born two years later, his second marriage was ending too. I’m content to know that God says to me, as He once said to the prophet Jeremiah, ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart…’ (Jeremiah 1:5) Neither I, nor Jim, nor you, nor anyone else, is the result of blind chance in a random and meaningless universe – our lives have significance before God, and we are responsible and accountable before Him as to how we live them. Having, basically, sort of started out together, it would be wonderful if Jim and I ended up together too! Saved by the same Saviour, forgiven of our respective sins, and welcomed into God’s eternal home. Whatever variety and differences life throws our way, we all have to come face to face with the Lord in the end, and that’s the part of life that really, really counts. And, as the old song says, ‘It’s not where you start, it’s where you finish…’ Murdo Macleod Nairn Free Church
St Ninians Church Sunday services and Sunday school: 10.15am. Wednesday 7.30pm: prayer meeting. Contact Rev. Ricky Reid: 01667 451675. St Columba’s Scottish Episcopal Family Eucharist on Sundays at 10.30am. Holy Communion on Wednesdays at 10.30am. conatct Rev.Canon Alison J Simpson 01667 452458 St Mary’s Catholic Church IV12 4RJ. Saturday Vigil 6pm. Sunday Mass 11.30am. Tel: 01667 453323. United Reformed Church Sunday services and Sunday School with crèche 11am. Contact Rev. Steven Manders: 01667 451443. The Pentecostal Church of God Nairn Sundays 10.30am. Contact Minister JD Grant: 01667 456088. Website: www.churchofgodnairn.org Nairn Joint Service St Ninians. 1st Sunday monthly, 6:30pm. If you are a member of a church not listed here and would like to be considered for inclusion or if there are any amendments to existing details, email tamsyn@spotlighton.co.uk
tel: 01309 690063
admin@spotlighton.co.uk
Later@
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February
LATE NIGHT LOUNGE BAR Serving Fresh Cocktails, Champagnes, Fine Wines & Premium Spirits. Enjoy the finest acoustic entertainment in comfortable surroundings
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01343 835222 STEAK NIGHT’S SPECIAL 2 x 8oz
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Served with Hand-cut Chips, Onion Rings, Mushrooms and fried egg
1 Bottle House Wine (Red, White or Rose)
All for the great price of Served Mon - Thu 6.30 - 8.30pm
ow Book nr fo Day ines Valent
£35
Booking advised
IDEAL GIFT FOR XMAS Offer ends 24th Dec
Nov 2013 - March2014 2015 New Membership Full £295 Full Membership Membership £315 Senior Membership £225 Senior Membership £240 Country Membership £225 Country Membership £240 Junior Membership £60 Junior Membership £60 Winter Membership Young AdultOct Membership £195 2013 – Mar 2014 (under 23) £85 and £50 off 2014 membership Tel: 01343 850585 Tel: 01343 850585
USEFUL INFORMATION Local & Bank Holidays and Special Days Chinese New Year Valentine’s Day Mothering Sunday British Summertime Starts Good Friday Easter Sunday Easter Monday Early May Bank Holiday Spring Bank Holiday Father’s Day
Fri 31st Jan 2014 Fri 14th Feb 2014 Sun 30th Mar 2014 Sun 30th Mar 2014 Fri 18th Apr 2014 Sun 20th Apr 2014 Mon 21st Apr 2014 Mon 5th May 2014 Mon 26th May 2014 Sun 15th Jun 2014
Longest Day Sat 21st Jun 2014 Summer Bank Holiday Mon 4th Aug 2014 British Summertime Ends Sun 26th Oct 2014 Halloween Fri 31st Oct 2014 Bonfire Night Wed 5th Nov 2014 St Andrew’s Day Sun 30th Nov 2014 St Andrew’s Day Observed Mon 1st Dec 2014 Shortest Day Sun 21st Dec 2014 Christmas Day Thurs 25th Dec 2014 Boxing Day Fri 26th Dec 2014
School Term Dates for 2013/2014 (all dates inclusive) Holiday Closure Mon 17th Feb 2014 Holiday Closure Tues 18th Feb 2014 Regional Closure Wed 19th Feb 2014 Regional Closure Thurs 20th Feb 2014 Regional Closure Fri 21st Feb 2014 Spring Term Ends Fri 4th Apr 2014 Good Friday Holiday Fri 18th Apr 2014 Easter Monday Holiday Mon 21st Apr 2014 Summer Term Starts Tues 22nd Apr 2014 May Day Holiday Mon 5th May 2014 Summer Term Ends Thurs 3rd Jul 2014
for 2014/2015 (all dates inclusive) In-Service Day Mon 18th Aug 2014 Autumn Term Starts Tues 19th Aug 2014 In-Service Day Thurs 25th Sep 2014 In-Service Day Fri 26th Sep 2014 Autumn Term Ends Fri 10th Oct 2014 Autumn Holiday Starts Mon 13th Oct 2014 Autumn Holiday Ends Fri 24th Oct 2014 Winter Term Starts Mon 27th Oct 2014 Winter Term Ends Fri 19th Dec 2014 Christmas Holiday Starts Mon 22nd Dec 2014 Christmas Holiday Ends Fri 2nd Jan 2015
Useful Contacts 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 Nairn Healthcare Group ................................01667 452096 Nairn Sports Medicine Clinic ........................01667 454523 DENTISTS Jones Jones & Behrendt ..............................01667 453189 RM Donald & Associates ..............................01667 454603 Dental Unit at Nairn Hospital ........................01667 422722 PHARMACIES Lloyds Pharmacy ..........................................01667 453100 Boots The Chemist ........................................01667 453169 page 8 - February 2014
VETS Moray Coast ..................................................01667 453161 Inshes Veterinary Clinic Inverness ................01463 711777 Nairn Community Centre ..............................01667 453476 Police Station ..................................................................101 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 would like to add a contact or if there are any amendments to be made to existing details, email tamsyn@spotlighton.co.uk
tel: 01309 690063
admin@spotlighton.co.uk
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Rural 3 bedroom, unfurnished cottage. Rent ÂŁ795 pcm
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© Roger Carr
PARLIAMENT BLOG & TIDE TIMES Our seasonal Highland Burns’ Suppers are always a welcome treat through the cold winter months. I’m very lucky this year, as I have two suppers to attend in February! For 2014 I was keen to invite the new Secretary of State for Scotland, Alistair Carmichael, to join us in Inverness for the Highland Lib Dems’ Burns’ Supper. He, of course, agreed, but only on the condition that I join him in Orkney for their evening. To my delight! Alistair is always the life and soul of the party, and it will be a real pleasure to hear him speak in Inverness, and host in Kirkwall. I cannot think of better words for the new Scottish Secretary to usher in 2014 than those of the immortal Rabbie Burns’ poem ‘Does Haughty Gaul Invasion Threat?’: ‘O, let us not, like snarling curs, In wrangling be divided’. Whether you’re attending a Burns’ Supper or not I hope all spotlight readers have has the opportunity to enjoy our most celebrated poet this winter.
We know that each year is brought in by singing Auld Lang Syne. But how many know that this song is reputed to be the best known song in the world. Sung in versions in China Russia India and Japan, it is a curious fact that whilst few people may understand far less know all the words, nonetheless it remains the tune that is most commonly associated with friendship and remembrance of times past. Singers as varied as Shirley Temple Bing Crosby and our own Andy Stewart have sung it, though Hollywood films such as "It's a wonderful life" have made it known all over the globe.The song was rescued as so many were by Robert Burns, whose immortal memory I recently had the honour to toast, in Boat of Garten. In this year when Scotland is on the world stage with the Games and the Ryder Cup, this song is one that will receive I am sure a rendition or two, and will bring peoples together from all round the world. In that respect, like our history heritage tartan, the clans bagpipes haggis and shortbread, it is part of Scotland and a part of our culture of which we can be proud.
Danny Alexander MP
LOW TIDE TIMES FOR NAIRN IN FEBRUARY Walking on the beach should be possible 2 hours either side of these times 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
SA SU M TU W TH F
AM 06:44 07:26 08:06 08:46 09:22 09:59 10:49
PM 19:18 20:03 20:47 21:29 22:08 22:44 23:35
Fergus Ewing MSP
AM 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
SA SU M TU W TH F SA SU M TU W
02:16 03:15 04:03 04:39 04:49 05:02 05:42 06:21 06:56 07:28 07:30
PM 13:32 14:47 15:43 16:30 17:06 17:33 17:58 18:28 19:01 19:37 20:12 20:42
20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
TH F SA SU M TU W TH F
AM 07:26 08:00 08:46 09:55 00:38 02:00 03:07 04:08 05:00
PM 19:54 20:29 21:25 13:13 14:44 15:51 16:48 17:35
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page 10 - February 2014
tel: 01309 690063
admin@spotlighton.co.uk
easy to call • easy to click • easy to go ONLY SCOTTISH COMPANY LIKE US OPEN ‘TIL 9PM! include leisure facilities. Hotels with DBB = Dinner, bed & breakfast BB = bed & breakfast.
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£128 DBB
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Let Us Know ‘What’s On’ In Your Area *Deadline for the March Issue: Friday, 31st January* Email: tamsyn@spotlighton.co.uk Telephone: 01309 690063 Inclusion of events in What’s On is free. We do not accept submissions for classes, courses or workshops.
9 sunday orienteering at altyre 10:30am - 12pm at altyre sawmill, near rafford. moravian's big winter event choice of 8 different routes to tackle from 2 km to 10 km. a great day out for everyone from toddlers who love the outdoors to hardened adventure runners!
14 friday
Contact venues & organisers first as there may be changes to events.
FEBRUARY 2014 1 saturday - 2 sunday buccaneer theatre club presents 'sleeping beauty' 2pm at raf lossiemouth tickets £6 adults /£5 concs, family & group tickets available. 07930 361721
2 sunday
the rat pack is back! valentines special @ ironworks 7:30pm. u16s must be accompanied by an adult. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com st. valentine’s charity concert 7:30pm, little theatre, nairn. £5 per person. for highland hospice, firthsiders & friends. tickets from the bookshop in nairn or call 01667 456915.
15 saturday gig in the cowshed @ the loft for more information visit facebook/eastgrange for details.
the loft activity open day east grange, kinloss. call 01343 850111 for details or facebook/eastgrange
5 wednesday nairn u3a - a gap decade; illustrated talk on michael laycock's adventures in australia in the 50s and 60s 1:45pm, nairn community centre. all welcome. call pauline on 01667 453537 or www.nairnu3a.org.uk
NAIRN
7 friday - 8 saturday buccaneer theatre club presents 'sleeping beauty' fri at 7.30pm, Sat 2pm & 7:30pm at raf lossiemouth tickets £6 adults /£5 concs, family and group tickets available. box office:- 07930 361721
7 friday
Nairn Community & Arts Centre Your local venue for films, shows, concerts, and parties. Wide range of activities for all ages.
nairn literary institute illustrated talk - ‘aberdeen / aberdeenshire witchcraft trials 1597’ by professor william naphy 7:30pm, nairn free church, gordon street. non-members £3. www.nairnliterary.org.uk cinema nairn celebrates the winter olympics with 'cool runnings' 7:30pm at nairn community & arts centre. tickets at door. for more information visit cinemanairn.blogspot.co.uk
Fri 7th..................Cinema Nairn “Cool Runnings” (PG) 1993
8 saturday
Fri 28th........... Cinema Nairn – “A Very Long Engagement”
scooty & the skyhooks @ ironworks 7:30pm. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com music nairn presents ‘doric string quartet’ playing haydn, janacek and beethoven 7:30pm at nairn community and arts centre. www.musicnairn.org.uk or call 01667 455701 admin@spotlighton.co.uk
FEBRUARY EVENTS Sat 8th............. Music Nairn- “Doric Quartet” String Quartet Sat 22nd............................Feis Workshops & Family Ceilidh (PG) 2004 English subtitles For further details, telephone 01667 453476, e-mail info@nairncc.co.uk or check out our website at www.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk
tel: 01309 690063
February 2014 - page 13
16 sunday
22 saturday
nairn men’s breakfast 9:45am for 10am at dunbar golf club, nairn. testimony by donald angus campbell - from fear to faith. share food and fellowship and hear what god is doing in other people’s lives. contact campbell on 01667 455149 by 6.30pm 14th february to book your place.
orienteering at lhanbryde - the crooked wood 10:15am - 11:15am at lhanbryde primary school. 2 km short course or more challenging 4 km route. refreshments in aid of lhanbryde primary school. visit www.moravianorienteering.org
19 wednesday nairn u3a - jonathan willet will give an illustrated talk on biodiversity in the highlands 1:45pm, nairn community centre. all welcome. call pauline on 01667 453537 or www.nairnu3a.org.uk
20 thursday paper aeroplanes @ ironworks 7:30pm. over 14s. call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
21 friday ‘hms defiant’ - moray inshore rescue organisation film night 7pm for 7:30pm, milne institute, findhorn. come and enjoy a glass of wine and an evening out. nairn literary institute illustrated talk - ‘learning to love the marquis: a family story from clearance era sutherland by professor james hunter 7:30pm, nairn free church, gordon street. non-members £3. www.nairnliterary.org.uk
26 wednesday highland rock garden club 7:30pm, nairn community centre. cliff booker, srgc travelling speaker “the definitive dolomites”. call 01320 366246 for details.
27 thursday moray society lecture 2pm, elgin museum hall. a lecture on ‘church interiors in moray’ by marion yool, nadfas. df concerts presents: the stranglers + nine below zero @ ironworks 7pm. over 14s (u16s with adult). call 0871 7894173 or visit www.ironworksvenue.com
28 friday macmillan cancer support (forres) ceilidh 7:30pm at the mosset tavern. tickets are £10 and include stovies. available from committee members, the macmillan shop on forres high street. for more info contact sue hellon on 01309 678875
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Friday Night ‘Fish@The Mill’ Choose from 5 Starters and 5 Mains
Steak Suppers
Starters
8oz RUMP STEAK £18.95per couple (normal price £29.00)
Prawn, crayfish and avocado cocktail, homemade bread and lemon salad ........ £5.75
8oz SIRLION STEAK £22.95per couple
Half Pint Squat Lobster tails ..................... £7.50
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Mains
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16oz SIRLION STEAK £33.95per couple The Old Mill Inn, winner of the ‘Country
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Inn of the Year 2012’ N.E. Scotland
TO BOOK YOUR TABLE PHONE page 14 - February 2014
Buy 2 F ish and on Courses ly pay
tel: 01309 690063
01309 641605 admin@spotlighton.co.uk
WHERE TO EAT IN MORAY
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There were so many superlatives bouncing across the dinner table that fittingly describe our visit to The 1629 Restaurant in Lossiemouth on the last weekend of the Old Year. These included “stunning,” “magnificent,” “heavenly,” “superb,” “exquisite” and many more – not only in recognition of the delights eaten, but also to reflect the marvelous friendliness and impeccable service offered by all the staff involved in creating a memorable evening. From the outset we were made to feel really special with every attention to detail. There are menus to suit all tastes; ‘Supper,’ ‘A la carte’ and ‘Specials’ - each with a mouth-watering array of delights to tempt us - and friendly staff to explain the dishes where necessary! As starters we tried three dishes which were Lobster Bisque, Cullen Skink and Haggis Cannelloni. The Lobster Bisque was “to die for” especially as, tucked under the surface, was a whole lobster claw (shelled of course) that was “huge” and “gorgeous” to eat. My Cullen Skink was more than excellent (and I am a bit of a Cullen Skink expert!). It was full of delicate flakes of smoked haddock and other fish too, I believe, together with generous pieces of potato, and it was probably the creamiest of soups I’ve ever tasted. The Haggis Cannelloni was selected from the ‘Scottish Specials’ board and was accompanied by typically Mediterranean sauce – tomatoes, chorizo, herbs, spices and more. What a terrific start!! The Wine List was most extensive, and those who wanted wine enjoyed a pleasing and smooth carafe of the house red. Again we had three different main courses; a Salmon dish, Scampi and a Chicken with Wild Mushroom sauce. That sounds like simplicity itself, but the way these simple foods were prepared, cooked and served left us swooning with pleasure. My Chicken with Wild Mushroom sauce on a bed of rice was divine – slices of chicken breast in a creamy sauce of really tasty baby wild mushrooms, all infused expertly with basil and other herbs. The Salmon was cooked to perfection and was lying on a bed of crushed prawn and mackerel pieces aided by yet another deeply and well-flavoured sauce. The Scampi were large, succulent and lightly battered (though bread crumbed scampi was also available) and the accompanying chips were “beautiful.” The homemade Tartare Sauce was so creamy that fingers were constantly being dipped into it!! Homemade Lemon Meringue pie was our choice of dessert which we shared between us. It was deep and dreamy - the lemon filling was not tart and seemed to include a hint of mango, and the meringue not overly sweet, which can often be the case. Mmm! The whole evening was an absolute delight. No less than 6 friendly faces regularly appeared to ensure that our evening would pass without a hitch and that we would leave happy. There was no waiting to have dirty plates removed or empty glasses taken away. Similarly there was only a short break between courses. Our grateful thanks go to David, his daughter’s Erin and Julie, the chefs and all the waiting staff for making one meal an experience to remember. We recommend that you go there soon – and remember to book as it can get quite busy!
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TRADITIONAL 3 COURSE SUNDAY LUNCH
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travel
Dreaming of...
MOROCCO A very popular destination currently is Morocco. This amazing country has thrived on being at the north end of the Sahara Desert and on the trade route to Europe. We spent three nights in Marrakech, 3 nights in the Atlas Mountains and 3 nights on the West coast. In Marrakech we walked for miles taking in all the sights, sounds and smells which make it such an extraordinary and vibrant city. We enjoyed the Djemaa El Fna Square with its music, snake charmers, street entertainers and stalls selling delicious freshly squeezed orange juice and in the evening hundreds of barbeques seem to appear from nowhere. The rabbit warren of the Souks are unlike anything we had seen before. We stayed in a wonderful Riad within the Medina. The staff were incredibly welcoming and friendly and our room combined Moroccan style with a contemporary twist and we enjoyed being able to lie back and rest on our own roof terrace. It was one of the best places we have ever stayed in but was a world away from what we found outside the Riad and by the time we moved on we had really had enough of being hassled endlessly to buy things. Beware the carpet stores, serving peppermint tea and being very persuasive! From Marrakech we went into the Atlas Mountains for three nights of peace and tranquillity. The weather was lovely and we enjoyed a few walks through the hills passing small hamlets where children who appeared from nowhere were not sure whether to hide or ask for 'bonbons' and ‘stylos’ (pencils). We were then driven west across the country to Essaouira, a charming fortified emplacement created by the Portuguese in the 15th Century, which is now an unspoilt fishing port – not a bar or club to be seen! We found excellent fish restaurants and stayed in another excellent Riad with a roof top pool. There are miles of lovely beaches and at other times of the year the Atlantic breezes attract windsurfers. The early morning drive back to Marrakech was fantastic – it was market day in one of the towns and we watched hundreds of men riding across fields on donkeys draped with panniers bringing their wares to market – it was an unforgettable and almost biblical sight. Morocco is ideal for a long weekend or for longer multi-centre journeys as we did. Riads are smaller boutique hotels with central atriums open to the skies and roof terraces, negating the need for widows to the exterior, and Kasbahs are larger guest houses with grounds – both are generally very characterful and certainly a contrast to a normal city hotel. Temperatures in the towns and cities are comfortable all year round, becoming hotter from June to October, and being really at their hottest from July to September. Evenings tend to be cooler, and in the mountains it can also be cooler all of the time. The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham, not generally available outside the country, but it gives good value for money.
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garden
Caring about... Before Renovation
...complete Lawn Renovation. A project this year ? Many of you will, in your darkest moments, consider giving up on your lawn… too far gone… wouldn’t know where to start… best to get it dug up and put down a new lawn ! Replacing a lawn can be very expensive however whether you plan to replace it with a new lawn or even slabs or gravel. Consider this, a worn-out lawn can actually be renovated in situ at a fraction of the cost of removing and replacing the whole thing. I have included here a before and after picture taken just a few weeks apart last summer. I suggest there are 4 stages in the process, and you could either try this yourself, probably with some hired machines, or get some help (probably best as you have to live with the results for years to come). 1. Hollow tine Aeration removes thousands of cores, reducing compaction and allowing air to move in the root zone, encouraging microbial activity and root development. 2. Severe Scarification removes as much thatch as possible, allowing the seed to find the soil surface which always aids germination. Once the thatch has been removed it has to be cleaned off the surface by either raking or sweeping, using a leaf sweeper. 3. Seeding should be applied at a rate of 20-25gms per m². The seed, being on the soil surface, puts it in direct contact with the material that will help it germinate; it is however open to the elements and can be disrupted by heavy winds and birds’ feasting. 4. Top Dressing covers the seed. Many think top dressing should be a sandy soil mix. We actually use a lawn compost, manufactured from recycled green waste and therefore environmentally friendly. It contains nutrient to assist existing grass and promote good germination from the seed and aids good microbial activity. This is applied at 2kg per m². All that’s required now is regular watering until the seed germinates (regular rainfall isn’t usually a problem in these parts). The best time to tackle this is June-Sept in Scotland, and that means starting planning now for your new lawn this summer. At around £2 per m2 to renovate, compared with around £12 per m2 to replace, it really is worth considering.
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After Renovation For more information about a personalised lawn improvement plan for your lawn, from just £5 per month on monthly DD, plus useful downloads and photos, look us up at www.greenthumb.co.uk. Although GreenThumb is the UK’s No.1 national lawncare franchise with over 200 branches, and treats half a million lawns, we are your local branch and cover the whole Moray Firth area. Contact Alastair or Fiona for a FREE LAWN ANALYSIS on 01667 460012, or email us at: inverness@greenthumb.co.uk
Find us online at: www.greenthumb.co.uk
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recipe
Chef’s Confidential Spiced Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup Ingredients 2 medium size sweet potatoes (peeled) 1 red pepper 1 small onion (peeled) 1 clove of garlic crushed 1 carrot (peeled and grated) 1 table spoon of curry powder 1 table spoon of paprika A knob of butter 1 tin of chopped tomatoes 1 litre of vegetable stock Salt and pepper Small handful of fresh coriander Method Roughly chop the sweet potatoes, onion and pepper. Heat a thick based pan and slowly sweat all the vegetables with the butter, curry powder, paprika and garlic for 10 minutes. Add the tin of tomatoes and vegetable stock, simmer for 1 hour until all the vegetables are soft ensure the soup does not go too thick. Add a little water if necessary. Take off the heat and liquidise. Return to the heat; chop the coriander and add it. Season with salt and pepper. If the soup is too thick add a little more vegetable stock.
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Recipe supplied by Head Chef, Steven Munro
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Wedding Feature
“The big day itself was all that we wished it to be and more” We had both fallen in love with the Scottish Highlands since coming up on holiday to visit my family, so when we got engaged it seemed like the perfect location to have our wedding. We needed somewhere that could hold both the ceremony and the reception plus have enough rooms for our guests to stay. We visited venues around the Highlands and the Newton Hotel was the clear winner. The hotel itself is stunning, successfully combining old fashioned charm with more modern additions. Seeing the grounds and the views across the Moray Firth for the first time took our breath away... and once I’d seen the field of Highland Cattle the deal was sealed! Throughout the planning stage all the staff at the hotel were really helpful, so rather than being a stressful experience, planning our wedding turned out to be an enjoyable one. It did sometimes feel as though I was at the Newton Hotel so often that staff must be getting fed up of me but they never showed it if they were! The big day itself was all that we wished it to be and more. The hotel had kindly cordoned off the car park so we had some gorgeous pictures of us at the front of the hotel, uninterrupted by other vehicles. We had originally planned to have the ceremony outside but the weather had other ideas! We always knew it would be a risk (it is the Highlands after all!) and the hotel staff were very happy to be flexible, giving us the option of the Chapel as our back up plan. In the end, even though we couldn’t have our wedding outside, the Chapel looked absolutely beautiful and it comfortably seated all our guests. The staff were excellent throughout and ensured that everything ran smoothly without a hitch, leaving us to enjoy our special day to the full. The food was always very important to us and the hotel did not disappoint, giving us a wide range of options for both the wedding breakfast and evening buffet, even allowing us to add some of our own suggestions. We are so glad that we chose to have our wedding at the Newton Hotel, it gave us both everything we ever wanted our wedding to be and we will cherish the memories for a lifetime. Plus our guests are still telling us what a great time they had! Vanessa and Tony Wedding Feature
Wedding Feature
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Perfect place A charming Victorian villa, located in a quiet residential area close to the beach and between two championship golf courses.
Perfect people
Our Duty Managers are very experienced in wedding planning and event management, helping you have that perfect day!
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Perfect day
If you would like more information, please contact us at 45 Seabank Road, Nairn. Tel:01667 453321 email: frontdesk@clubhousehotels.co.uk Web: www.clubhousenairn.co.uk
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* Chair Cover Promotion* Free Guest Rooms * Free Roomcall Hire01309 Please 672410 or email weddings@ramneehotel.com Our New New W Wedding edding Brochure is no now wa available vailable Contact us to discuss Wedding Day Offers * 672410 copythese from Special our W edding Co-ordinator on 01309 Please request a copy Wedding Please callweddings@ramneehotel.com 01309 Menu 672410 or email2014 weddings@ramneehotel.com weddings@r amneehotel.com or email Valentines and Wedding Brochure now available * New bookings only 2013/2014
2AMNEE (OTEL s &ORRES s -ORAY s (IGHLANDS s WWW RAMNEEHOTEL COM Ramnee Hotel ¡ F orres ¡ Mor ay ¡ Highlands ¡ www .ramneehotel.com Forres Moray www.ramneehotel.com
Wedding Feature
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Keith - 50kw Solar PV Installation 168 x 295w Modules 2013
Lumphanan - 50kw Solar PV Installation 200 x 250w Modules 2013
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Electrical installations and consultation Ë Ë Ë Ë Ë Ë Plumbing Ë ËË Solar Ë Ë Photovoltaic Systems Ë Ë Ë Ë Solar Photovoltaic System Add-Ons Ë Ë Ë Ë Ë Ë Ë Ë Ë Ë Ë • Solar Ë Thermal Systems Ë Ë Ë Ë Ë Ë • ‘Intelligent’ Ë Ë Electrics Ë • Electric Ë Ë Vehicle Charging Unit Ë Ë Ë • Battery Back-up andË Storage Ë Ë Ë
Graham Dave Sharon
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07903 07787 01343
Contact: 494718 510665 818102
gmrenewablesltd@live.co.uk • Dallas, Forres, Moray IV36 2RZ
HARRISON’S Home Improvements Ltd FULLY FITTED KITCHENS Harrison’s Own Brand Kitchens
RENOVATIONS/HOME IMPROVEMENT PACK – 4 Home Improvements for only £20,000!
LEVEL 1 Any 13 Units, Worktops, Cornice, Pelmets Select from 2 ranges
KITCHEN PACK
LAKES LIFETIME GUARANTEE
13 Units Kitchen Pack and Appliances fitted
£2499 Supplied and Fitted LEVEL 2 Any 13 Units, Worktops, Cornice, Pelmets Select from 7 ranges
BATHROOM PACK
£3500 Supplied and Fitted 50% Off Selected Ranges
13 Piece Bathroom Pack inc Bath, Toilet, Basin and Wetwall
of Lakes Kitchens
FULLY FITTED BATHROOMS Refresher Package 13-Piece Bathroom Set – perfect for smaller bathrooms where budget is key
Premier Package A complete refurbishment solution with vanity storage at an affordable price
BEDROOM PACK Any 6 Units – Select from: Mirrored Units/Drawered Units, Double/Single/Hanging Units
£2999 inc VAT and Installation
£5499 inc VAT and Installation
HEATING PACK
Ultra Package Everything you need for your new bathroom, giving you the widest choice of styles and colours with high quality products
BALTERLEY LIFETIME GAURANTEE
Combi Boiler 7 Radiators plus Pipework and Valves
£8999 inc VAT and Installation
Balterley Lifetime Manufacturer’s Guarantee Contact Harrison’s for full package info. Ts and Cs apply
ALL THIS FOR £20,000 –
5 YEAR PARTS AND LABOUR WARRANTY
Includes VAT and Fitting
NEEDO ELECTRIC PANEL HEATING The new generation controller – revolutionise the management of your heating
NEEDO PACK
SP OF ECIA FE L R
Special Offer: High quality heating system £4700 inc VAT and fitting. Full system swap
PLUMBING and HEATING Supplied and Fitted Only
£2195 inc VAT # -Ë. -7 ! ËÌÉyËVË +¤ÔËÌÉy LPG Boats and Caravans £85 LPG Catering Vans £120
Call us on 01343 551331 for more information on the latest in electric heating
SAVING YOU 25% ELECTRICITY ON YOUR CURRENT PANEL AND STORAGE HEATERS!
Select from one of the best 3 boilers on the market COMMERCIAL AND DOMESTIC Service Plans Available
Introducing: PROPERTY
30kw 30kw
Manufacturer’s Lifetime Guarantee Available Ts and Cs apply
30kw 224523
MAINTENANCE SERVICES
All Joinery, Plumbing, Electrical, Painting and Decorating, Groundworks, Landscaping and Gardening ? Íj ? WjË ÍÁ?WÍÄËwÁ ËÌÔ|± ˬjÁË Í Ë®+ Ö M ~Ê j?Í ~Ê jWÍÁ WįËVË0ÄË? aË ÄË?¬¬ ß 8jË? Ä ËÖ ajÁÍ? jË ¬¬ ? WjË.jÁÜ W ~Ë? aË-j¬? ÁÄËVË! Ë MË0 Ë ~Ë ÁË. ? u Free Plan and Design Free Quotations Terms and Conditions Apply Pictures for illustration purposes only
Open 7 Days Mon-Fri 8 am-5 pm Sat and Sun 10 am-4 pm
COME AND VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AT 16 Linkwood Place, Elgin Tel (01343) 551331
THERE’S NO COMPARISONS TO HARRISON’S!
HARRISON’S
LINKWOOD PLACE