SpotLight on Nairn & District - February 2015

FEBRUARY 2015

NAI R N & D I S T RI C T THE NORTH’S FAVOURITE FREE WEE MAG

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CLUBS & SOCIETIES CAWDOR HERITAGE GROUP 3rd Wed every month excl Aug, Sept, Dec & Jan, 7.30pm. Family and local history archive facility within Nairn Museum. Cawdor Community Centre. Contact 493218 for more information.

FĂˆIS INBHIR NARAINN Reg. Charity No. SC038460.

Weekly traditional music classes in guitar, fiddle, whistle, chanter, accordion, keyboard & bodhran.

Any ability from age 8. Instrument hire available. Tel: 462681 or visit www.spanglefish.com/inbhirnarainn LEAGUE OF FRIENDS OF NAIRN HOSPITAL Our charity raises funds to provide extra comforts for staff and patients at Nairn Town County Hospital and also provide equipment for the hospital. Contact 452243

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 NAIRN & DISTRICT SENIOR CITIZENS LUNCH CLUB Mondays & Thursdays, 12:30pm at Nairn Community Centre. Two course lunch, tea, coffee & biscuits. Bingo, raffle, trips out & entertainment. New members always welcome. Apply to Pat Clark 01667 452916

NAIRN ANGLING ASSOCIATION Contact 459250 or email nairnangling@tiscali.co.uk NAIRN DISABLED SPORTS CLUB We cater for bowlers and athletes who have a disability.

Contact 07766 952477 NAIRN DRAMA CLUB Mondays from 7:30pm, The Little Theatre in Nairn. Amateur drama club open to everyone, whatever your interest in theatre. Visit www.nairndrama.org.uk, email enquiries@nairndrama.org.uk or phone Helen Wright tel: 452505 NAIRN FRIENDSHIP CLUB Tuesdays, 2pm - 4pm in Nairn Community and Arts centre. For over 16s, retired, disabled. Bring family & friends for an afternoon of entertainment. Tea, coffee & biscuits served. Entry ÂŁ2.50.

All welcome. Entertainers & volunteers needed. Call Moira on 01667 455011 or 07716 183466 NAIRN GAELIC CHOIR Gaelic and other choral music, promoting the Gaelic language.

Contact 452584 or email christinagillies@hotmail.co.uk

UĂŠSHOE REPAIRS

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NAIRN MEN’S BREAKFAST Meets third Saturday(not July or December) 9:45am at Dunbar Golf Club, Lochloy Road, Nairn.

The opportunity for men of all ages & denominations to share how there life changed through faith in Jesus. Call Campbell 01667 455149 to book a place.

NAIRN SMASHERS BADMINTON CLUB Mondays & Wednesdays 9am 10.30am, Fridays 9am - 10am in the Games Hall, Nairn Sports Club. A sociable group and new members are always welcome, irrespective of ability. Call Mrs Jan Stuart on 07742 019286 NAIRN SYNCHRO SWIMMING Nairn synchro has international and national swimmers. Email wyn.mcfadyen@tesco.net or call 454223 NAIRN SWIMMING CLUB (NDASC) Swimmers aged 7 & up. Trained to compete and for fitness & fun. www.ndasc.co.uk NAIRN THUNDERBOLTS Mini Rugby Club for P4 - 7. Train on Sundays 10.30am - 12pm @ Viewfield, behind Nairn Museum.

Call 01667 454963 or visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/nairnmi nirugbyclub/ NAIRN WINE CIRCLE Home wine making. Meetings through the year. New members welcome. Contact Rosemary on 454019 or Chris on 452000. nairnwinewinecircle.org.uk SOUNDS FAMILIAR SINGING GROUP Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday every month at 2:30pm - 4pm in the Craigmonie Hotel, Annfield Rd, Inverness. For people with dementia & their carers. Come and enjoy our friendly, popular group. For details call 01463 233231 or 01463 230803 or email soundsfamiliarmusic@aol.com

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page 4 - February 2015

tel: 01309 690063

01309 671477

admin@spotlighton.co.uk

It’s difficult to ignore all the violence that is going on just now and even more difficult to reconcile that with a “civilised society”. Maybe we can try and focus on the hope that these are just small minorities of people and more often than not their actions do not fairly reflect the wider belief systems of the religions that they purport to represent. We must hope and pray that these people eventually come to their senses.

The Editor

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Words by the Wayside “And He (The Lord Jesus) said unto another, Follow me.

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PASTORAL LETTER & CHURCH MEETINGS Courage – Peace – Power How often do we face some sort of crisis?

Do we not all have to grapple with success and failure, and learn how to manage victory and defeat – joy and pain?

Is it not interesting to see how others handled and managed and coped with such times?

Daniel faced a profoundly moving spiritual crisis.

Have we not had some experience, where something new and fresh has happened, and the only response we can make is to kneel and pray and give thanks?

Temptation comes your way, and the protecting Hand of God grips you and guides you back from the brink, to safety and security.

There comes a line from a Psalm or a hymn and all of a sudden it is as if a window is opened towards heaven.

Or some crumb of doubt falls into our heart and mind, and the wind of the Spirit and the truth of the Word banishes it.

We experience some dark cloud and suddenly the love and light of

the risen and living Jesus shines so brightly. Read the whole scenario in Chapter 10.

Daniel was facing a crisis and Daniel prayed specifically. This was no vague passive prayer. Daniel took action. Daniel made time to pray.

The situation was serious, and Daniel was the man of God for that hour.

Daniel has this sudden encounter with Almighty God and he senses this overwhelming sense of personal unworthiness.

Daniel is expecting an answer, but when it comes, it is surprising.

Saul of Tarsus, who kept the whole law as much as any man could keep the whole law, when he met Almighty God on the Damascus Road, fell on his face ashamed and crying out, “Who are you Lord?”

Daniel meets God and the temporary consequence is that there is no strength in him.

It is as if Daniel sees himself and something remaining of his own unworthiness.

Jesus Christ’s strong clear clean character could make others feel dingy by comparison.

Ardersier with Petty Parish Church, Church of Scotland Sundays 10.15am. Petty Sundays 12 noon.Tel: 01667 462224.

Auldearn and Dalmore Parish Church Sundays 12noon.

Contact Fraser Turner (interim moderator) on 01463 794004 Cawdor Parish Church Sunday 10.15am. Contact Rev. JS Mathieson: 01667 493217.

Nairn Baptist Church Nairn Community Centre. Sundays 11am. Contact the Pastor: 01667 452764 or Secretary 01667 452351 or visit www.nairnbaptistchurch.org.uk Nairn Christian Fellowship Sundays 10.30am. Wednesday 7.30pm: praise and Bible study. Contact Sandy Shaw: 01667 456492.

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). Contact Minister Murdo MacLeod: 01667 459131.

Nairn Old Parish Church 10.30am: holiday worship and crèche. Contact Rev. Alistair S. Younger on 01463 242873

page 6 - February 2015

God leads Daniel beyond that first reaction. God always does.

Verse 11 – Daniel, you are highly esteemed. Daniel, you are greatly beloved. It is repeated in verse 19.

Did anybody think Zacchaeus was lovable? Jesus did!

Do you think Matthew or Martha or Thomas or Saul of Tarsus was more attractive than anyone else?

Jesus Christ called them and befriended them and loved them and used them.

Daniel, you are loved. Do not be afraid. Know my peace, and be strong.

Do not be afraid. Have courage.

Today the world is full of people living below their best because of fear.

To know God is courage. To know God is peace. To know God is power.

Courage – Peace – Power.

These flow from the risen and living Lord Jesus Christ to all who wish to receive.

Sandy Shaw Pastor of Nairn Christian Fellowship

St Ninians Church Sunday services and Sunday school: 10.15am. Contact Fraser Turner (interim moderator) on 01463 794004 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 10am. 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 on 01667 456088 or visit www.churchofgodnairn.org Nairn Joint Service at Nairn St Ninian's Church of Scotland.

First Sunday each month at 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

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“Photo Noir”

By Jack Rutherford Photography Jack's ‘Photo Noir’ is both personal and desirable. A single light and a black background is all that is needed to produce these timeless and striking works of art.

Presented in stunning black frames, this is probably the most emotional style of portraiture you will ever possess. It is both simple and elegant. Clothing is kept dark to maximise the impact of the image and bring attention to the sitter’s face.

Jack Rutherford Photography is located in the lovely seaside town of Nairn and specialises in Black and White and Location Portraiture.

“Photo Noir” Competition

To win a portrait session and a 10” framed print worth £180, answer this simple question. What colour of background does Jack use?

To enter, simply visit the Jack Rutherford Photography web site, click on the “Photo Noir” Competition link and complete the simple form. The winner will be picked on Monday 9th February 2015. Don’t delay and enter today!

To book tel : 01667 456640 or email: jack@jackrutherford-photography.co.uk www.jackrutherford-photography.co.uk

USEFUL INFORMATION Local & Bank Holidays and Special Days Valentine’s Day Shrove Tuesday Ash Wednesday Mothering Sunday British Summertime Starts Palm Sunday April Fool’s Day Maundy Thursday Good Friday Easter Sunday Easter Monday

Sat 14th Feb 2015 Tues 17th Feb 2015 Wed 18th Feb 2015 Sun 15th Mar 2015 Sun 29th Mar 2015 Sun 29th Mar 2015 Wed 1st Apr 2015 Thurs 2nd Apr 2015 Fri 3rd Apr 2015 Sun 5th Apr 2015 Mon 6th Apr 2015

Early May Bank Holiday Spring Bank Holiday Father’s Day Longest Day Summer Bank Holiday British Summertime Ends Halloween Bonfire Night Rememberance Sunday St Andrew’s Day Shortest Day

Mon 4th May 2015 Mon 25th May 2015 Sun 21st Jun 2015 Sun 21st Jun 2015 Mon 3rd Aug 2015 Sun 25th Oct 2015 Sat 31st Oct 2015 Thurs 5th Nov 2015 Sun 8th Nov 2015 Mon 30th Nov 2015 Tues 22nd Dec 2015

School Term Dates for 2014/2015 (all dates inclusive) Mid Term Holiday Mon 16th Feb 2015 Mid Term Holiday Tues 17th Feb 2015 In-Service Day Wed 18th Feb 2015 Spring Term Ends Thurs 2nd Apr 2015 Spring Holiday Starts Fr 3rd Apr 2015 Spring Holiday Ends Fri 17th Apr 2015 Summer Term Starts Mon 20th Apr 2015 May Day Holiday Mon 4th May 2015 In-Service Day Mon 1st Jun 2015 Summer Term Ends Thurs 2nd Jul 2015

for 2015/2016 (all dates inclusive) Summer Holiday Ends Fri 14th Aug 2015 In-Service Day Mon 17th Aug 2015 Autumn Term Starts Tues 18th Aug 2015 In-Service Day Thurs 24th Sep 2015 In-Service Day Fri 25th Sep 2015 Autumn Term Ends Fri 9th Oct 2015 Autumn Holiday Starts Mon 12th Oct 2015 Autumn Holiday Ends Fri 23rd Oct 2015 Winter Term Starts Mon 26th Oct 2015 Winter Term Ends Tues 22nd Dec 2015

Useful Contacts 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 Railway Mission..............................................078419 85768 DENTISTS Jones Jones & Behrendt ..............................01667 453189 RM Donald & Associates ..............................01667 454603 Dental Unit at Nairn Hospital ........................01667 422722 page 8 - February 2015

PHARMACIES Lloyds Pharmacy ..........................................01667 453100 Boots The Chemist ........................................01667 453169 VETS Moray Coast ..................................................01667 453161 Inshes Veterinary Clinic Inverness ................01463 711777 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 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

Nairn Dunbar Golf Club Part-time General Cook (25 hrs)

In preparation for the start of the golf season we require a general cook/kitchen assistant for our increasingly busy kitchen.

You should have be able to carry out basic cooking tasks in a club kitchen environment without supervision.

Ideally suiting someone seeking experience in a working kitchen, the job is available for immediate start (and can, initially, be seasonal to fit around study needs). Flexible hours including weekends may lead to a full time position.

This position will require you to fit in to a small friendly team who are providing excellent customer service.

Please apply with CV to: Rob Macpherson, Manager Nairn Dunbar Golf Club Lochloy Road, Nairn IV12 5AE Tel: 01667 452741

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PARLIAMENT BLOG & TIDE TIMES Aside from politics, I like to turn to Crime.

Crime fiction that is! Michael Connolly created Harry Bosch, a bolshy LAPD Policeman who has no time for the political shenanigans of some of his bosses. His slogan is "Everybody counts or nobody counts." In other words he must serve and protect all human beings not just the rich and famous and not curry favour or court popularity. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why, though it may not please everyone, I am certain that the average speed camera system on the A9 is absolutely the right thing. Because it will save lives. And because fewer people will suffer horrific injuries on the road because of it. That is what the evidence shows - evidence from a decades use over the UK with 60% reduction in serious incidents. And evidence from the A9 already shows excessive speeding cut from one in ten vehicles to one in seven hundred.

I know some constituents are not persuaded yet - but I am certain that this policy IS the right thing. Everybody does count. The human misery that will be avoided is beyond price.

It was a pleasure to meet the volunteers and staff of the Salvation Army, last month. Many people associate the Sally Army with the cold winter months, and particularly the Christmas holidays, but the assistance they provide to those in need happens all year round. Here in the Highlands, they are well known for the invaluable housing support service that they provide to individuals and families who are affected by homelessness.

So, it was great to have the chance to chat to some of their volunteers in Inverness. Clearly the Salvation Army are making a real difference to peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives - and their latest campaign, the Inverness Resettlement Project, continues to be a growing success story. I want to thank them for their tireless generosity and the exceptional work they do for our Highland communities. If you, or someone you know, is struggling with homelessness, or any other issue, please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hesitate to get in touch with me by calling 01463 711280, or emailing danny@highlandlibdems.org.uk

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

AM 04:35 05:13 05:35 05:45 06:10 06:45 07:16

SU M TU W TH F SA

PM 16:58 17:37 18:07 18:33 19:01 19:33 20:06

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

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

Fergus Ewing MSP AM 07:31 07:33 07:57 08:32 09:20 11:43 01:29 02:30 03:24 04:21 05:14 05:58

PM 20:32 20:32 20:35 21:11 23:45 14:09 15:11 16:09 17:02 17:49 18:32

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

F SA SU M TU W TH F SA

AM 06:42 07:24 08:05 08:48 09:30 10:15 11:18 01:03 02:31

PM 19:15 19:59 20:43 21:26 22:09 22:53 13:48 14:58

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Let Us Know ‘What’s On’ In Your Area *Deadline for the March Issue: Friday, 30th 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.

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

Rolling Event 21 february - 4 march inverness music festival a competitive music festival open to all ages and abilities. come along and enjoy watching and listening to the performers. for tickets and info visit www.invernessmusicfestival.org

7 saturday esperi and sonny cartyne 8pm, the drouthy cobbler. multi-instrumental soundscapes meets echo rock in this double headliner. tickets £8 from the bar or www.thedrouthycobbler.co.uk

8 sunday orienteering at lossie forest & binn hill 10am - 12pm, garmouth. join orienteers from all over the north at moravian's big winter orienteering extravaganza. courses to suit all ages and abilities (or lack of!). www.moravianorienteering.org the drouthy cobbler whisky society 7:30pm, the drouthy cobbler. an evening of whisky tasting with malt strength editions from chivas brothers' lesser known distilleries. tickets £12 from the bar or www.thedrouthycobbler.co.uk

JANUARY 2015 27 tuesday highland literary salon burns evening 7:30pm, glen mhor hotel inverness. burns supper. for more info and tickets please see www.highlandlitsalon.com

NAIRN

30 friday

Nairn Community & Arts Centre

cinema nairn - the best exotic marigold hotel (12) 7.30pm at nairn community and arts centre. tickets at door. for info visit cinemanairn.blogspot.co.uk

Your local venue for films, shows, concerts, and parties. Wide range of activities for all ages.

FEBRUARY 2015 1 sunday

FEBRUARY EVENTS

breathing space day we try to make it easier for you to open up when you’re feeling down. for info visit www.breathingspace.scot or call 0800 83 85 87

6 friday nairn literary institute illustrated talk: moving out and moving on? scottish emigrants’ experiences on the 20th century by professor marjory harper 7.30pm, nairn free church, gordon street, nairn, nonmembers £3. www.nairnliterary.org.uk playpieces. mallory: beyond everest 12:30pm, the drouthy cobbler. lunchtime theatre from playpieces. ticket includes a pie and a windswept beer. tickets from the bar or www.thedrouthycobbler.co.uk admin@spotlighton.co.uk

Friday 6th ...............................................Fundraising Film Night “Walking on Sunshine” (12a) Friday 20th ............................................... Music Nairn Presents “Passacaglia” Baroque Ensemble Saturday 21st................................................. Feisinbhirnarainn Festival of Traditional Music (www.nairnfeis.co.uk) Friday 27th .............................................................Cinema Nairn “Night of the Hunter” (12) Saturday 28th...........................................Charity Ceilidh Dance 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 2015 - page 11

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Did You See Lots of Crane Flies in Your Garden Last Summer ?

Crane flies, better known as “daddy long legs”, hatch in Spring, do their thing all Summer, and then mate and lay eggs in the Autumn. Crucially for those of us looking after lawns, they like to lay eggs in lawn turf, preferably a lawn in good condition. Like many species, once they have found a hatchery that suits, it is often revisited generation after generation. They seem to have a successful hatching if the Winter is fairly mild, which it certainly was here last Winter. “So what ?” I hear you say !

Well, you may have seen a lot of media coverage last Summer about the crop damage and lawn damage done by the increased numbers of crane flies which emerged last Spring. The eggs in the turf hatch into grubs called “leatherjackets” over the Winter. The grubs start feeding on grass roots until they are ready to emerge in the Spring as crane flies. They can devastate an area of a field or lawn in a few weeks.

Look out for brown dead patches appearing (especially at the edges), and also frantic pecking activity by starlings, a possible sign of grubs in the turf.

You can often confirm a presence by lifting a square of turf, and you may see grubs in the root zone if you turn it over. You can treat the affected area with an insecticide spray – pretty toxic, read the label. You should see thousands of larvae carcasses lying on the lawn within a day or two. It’s a job we do fairly commonly at this time of year. Severe root damage won’t recover, the lawn will need a reseeding repair once the ground temperature has warmed up. Worth checking while you’re out raking leaves.

12

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nairn literary institute illustrated talk: sir hector munro of novar by dr andrew mackillop 7.30pm, nairn free church, gordon street, nairn, nonmembers £3. www.nairnliterary.org.uk

21 saturday emergent Meeting the future

Drumduan Upper School leads the way in a new approach to secondary school level education with a sustainable, holistic and practical curriculum for adolescents, inspired by the work of Rudolf Steiner and designed for the 21st Century.

orienteering at crooked wood (lhanbryde)10:15am 11am at lhanbryde primary school 2nd event in moravian's saturday series for 2015. includes the 2nd round of the moray & nairn schools league competiton. www.moravianorienteering.org nairn men’s breakfast 9.45am for 10am, dunbar golf club, nairn. testimony by chris richards. share food and fellowship and hear what god is doing in other people’s lives. contact campbell on 01667 455149 by 6.30pm friday 20th feb to book your place.

23 monday - 24 tuesday Lessons covering the sciences and humanities are taught by Steiner Waldorf-trained, specialist teachers.

Academic study is enhanced and balanced with movement, music and artistic work, with crafts and outdoor activities part of the daily rhythm.

Drumduan Upper School, Clovenside Road, Forres IV36 2RD

T: 01309 691214 E: reception@drumduan.org W: www.drumduan.org

11 wednesday highland rock garden club - snowdrops and spring flowers: illustrated talk by kevin ball (head gardener, inverewe) 7:30pm nairn community centre. for info call john owen on 01320 366246

12 thursday - 13 friday banff mountain film festival 2015 7:30pm, empire theatre, eden court. for details and prices visit www.eden-court.co.uk

15 sunday patrick monahan: adventures in monahan land 7:30pm, the drouthy cobbler. irish-iranian stand-up comedian brings his national tour to elgin. tickets £12 from the bar or www.thedrouthycobbler.co.uk

free 2 day wrap (wellness recovery action planning) workshop. improve your mental health, manage difficult feelings, get more out of life. to book a free place or find out more contact: info@wrapmoray.org www.wrapmoray.org

25 wednesday do you like jokes? comedy club 7:30pm, the drouthy cobbler. established comics and the next big thing! £10 from the bar or www.thedrouthycobbler.co.uk

26 thursday simon kempston 7:30pm, the drouthy cobbler. one of scotland’s best young songwriters and leading fingerstyle guitarists. tickets £12 from the bar or www.thedrouthycobbler.co.uk

27 friday cinema nairn : 'night of the hunter' (12) 7.30pm at nairn community and arts centre. tickets at door for further info: cinemanairn.blogspot.co.uk outfit moray adventure talk series: david ‘heavy’ whalley 7:30pm (doors 7pm) universal hall, findhorn. tickets £5.50 from www.seetickets.com. all proceeds benefit outfit moray’s work with vulnerable and disadvantaged young people.

20 friday

music nairn presents ‘passacaglia’ with an eclectic programme of baroque music 7:30pm at nairn community and arts centre. tickets at the door or from music nairn www.musicnairn.org.uk or call 01667 455701 !

page 14 - February 2015

tel: 01309 690063

admin@spotlighton.co.uk

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Restaurant Review Nairn Dunbar Golf Club Tel: 01667 452741

Well above Par! Going on a recommendation from a friend, my family decided to try Sunday Lunch at the Nairn Dunbar Golf Club.

The naturally lit restaurant was bright and busy but adequately spaced to provide comfort. We were warmly welcomed by the waiting staff and given the option of having a drink in the lounge area and enjoy the view before eating. My three children had been kept from snacking between meals in order to have adequate appetite, so we were seated immediately and had placed our order within minutes.

My starter of Kiln Roasted Smoked Salmon served with Dill Sauce was a delight. The flaky smokiness of the fish was balanced by the crisp and refreshing salad, offset by the tang of the dill sauce.

I am the sort of mother to pester her children into trying new flavours, making use of the side plates to force mini portions on the kids to broaden their tastes.

For the main course my parents and I opted for the carvery, which was a choice of Roast Lamb, Traditional Rib Roast and Roast Honey Glazed Gammon. For gluttons such as myself you will be delighted to hear one can opt for all 3 meats at once and the portion size is very generous. All three meats were tender and flavoursome, the potatoes crisp and the Yorkshire puddings homemade. My son said he overheard the neighbouring table agreeing it was the best carvery they had had in years.

The kids had reached their quota of roast dinners over the festive season and were delighted with their choices of burger and chips, sausages in a roll and a cheese toastie for my vegetarian daughter who was pleased they offered multiple choices for vegetarians. My son thought his beef burger was “homemade and yummy”.

We decided to have our coffee and desserts in the lounge area.

The Sticky Toffee Pudding’s bowls were scraped clean. The Hot Chocolate Fudge Cake was “moist and scrummy” and the Plum Streusel was to die for!

The main thing that struck me about the golf club was how affordable it was and how welcome my family and I were made to feel. It felt like everyone was comfortable, from families with small children and couples both elderly and young. Many seemed to be regulars as they were greeted by name with sincere affection. Next door we were told there was a large party for a 25th Wedding Anniversary as there was a constant flow of food and drink being delivered to an adjoining room. The waitresses all showed genuine interest in my children and asked what Santa had brought. In their reviews of the restaurant the one consistency was that all 3 children said there were “Kind Waitresses” (the spelling did vary). I was also delighted by the constant entertainment provided as the kids watched to see how the golfers fared (excuse the pun).

Review, Sunday 4th January- Jill & Family

The Newton Hotel - The Perfect Wedding Day

“The Newton hotel sits in 21 acres of mature woodland, an idyllic setting for your very special day. We are licensed for wedding ceremonies, and civil partnerships, from smaller intimate bespoke ceremonies, which can be held in our chapel, to larger more lavish events in our Highland Suite. You can be assured that your special day will be tailored according to your wishes by our experienced and dedicated wedding team.

We are proud to present a selection of wedding packages, which can be tailored to your specific needs, and offer inspiration to assist yourselves with the planning of your special day”

The Newton Hotel Chapel

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

Choose ‘I Do Bridal Wear’ for a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, down to earth service and beautiful dresses that realistically priced!

You’ll find a lovely selection of bridal and bridesmaid dresses along with bespoke artificial flower, button and brooch bouquets.

10 The Muir, Bogmoor, Spey Bay, Fochabers IV32 7PY Tel: 01343 823 942 07970 157316 Email: info@idobridalwear.co.uk Website: www.idobridalwear.co.uk

Helping make your day special!

Stockists of: s Rosa Couture s Brides by Harvee s Veromia D’Zage s Kelsey Rose s Sweetheart Gowns

event catering

Allsewnup

z WEDDINGSz Available for dates throughout 2016 at your chosen venue.

Cutlery, glasses and waiter service also available.

Bridal & General Alterations Dressmaking Service Fabric and Haberdashery Sales Sewing Classes 42 Seafield Road Inverness IV1 1SG

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With 30 years of experience in the catering industry, our chefs’ creative flair, imagination and attention to detail, we have the know-how to deliver catering in style, for you.

01463 229697

ALL OCCASIONS CATERED FOR!

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The Chapel

Wedding Fair 12th April 2015 The Wedding

New wedding brochure coming soon!

For further information call:: 01667 453144 or email: sales.newton@bespokehotels.com

INNES HOUSE

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

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

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

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

Offer extended!

Any couple booking their wedding within six months of their wedding date, will be offered complimentary wedding night accommodation along with a 'Champagne Toast' upgrade of their chosen drinks package

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

Wedding

H O T E L

&

A Chic victorian villa, close to the beach with beautiful modern interiors & surroundings makes the Clubhouse the perfect venue for your Wedding Day.

O R C H I D

R E S T A U R A N T

2015/2016 - OFFER ÂŁ3,750 All inclusive Wedding Pack for 50 Guests Also available tailor made wedding packs to suit all of your wedding requirements.

Our Conference and Events Manager along with our professional friendly & experienced staff are committed to helping you have the 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

Unit 9A1,useful Balmakeith Industrial Estate,18:56 Nairn IV12 5QW naturally jan 15 12/12/2014 Page 1 Tel: 01667 452737

ÂŁ325 ÂŁ250

Show you care for your loved ones with an enviromentallyfriendly, Scottish willow casket. Willow is the most natural and sustainable material, suitable for burial and cremation.

The caskets are curved, and can be made to order. We also have five different sizes in stock ready for delivery. Modifications can include hedgerow materials gathered from your garden and surrounding woodlands, and are lined with a biodegradable calico material.

Visitors welcome at: Marcassie Farm, Rafford, Nr Forres, IV36 2RH Phone 01309 675052 or 07926 809521 www.naturallyuseful.co.uk

GOL F VIEW HOTEL & S PA

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Rich in iron and full of vitam ins, anti oxid ants and min erals , spin ach has an extre mely high nutr ition al valu e (just ask Pope ye!)

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*Offer valid on new memberships up to 28th February 2015. Full Crerar Hotels terms and conditions apply.

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