SpotLight on Nairn & District

JANUARY 2013

NAIRN AND DISTRICT THE

NORTH’S

FAV O U R I T E

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This Month Travel.................................p14

Chef’s Confidential ............p16

Winter Gardening ..............p22

Allan Studio, Kitchens ..........p7 Great Little Stoves..............p11 Meals at The Clubhouse.....p17 Scenic Properties................p19 Open Uni ......................p28 Clubs & Societies, Pastoral Letter, Church Details, Council News, Useful Numbers, Local Holidays, What’s On, Parliament Blog, Tide Times and much, much more!

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See us in

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.

Any couple booking their 2013 Wedding with us during January 2013, 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

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

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

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

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

Now that is peace of mind for your pet.

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

© Maryan Why te

CLUBS & SOCIETIES DALLACHY AEROMODELLERS Holds model aircrafts and helicopter flying at old Dallachy World War 2 airfield. Mainly at weekends. Offers training on dual control. www.dallachyaeromodellers.org.uk NAIRN U3A Nairn U3A is a self help group for informal learning in a social setting for those no longer working full time. Meets fortnightly Wednesdays at 1.45pm in Nairn Community Centre. A guest speaker may entertain us, or the afternoon might feature a DVD and ends with tea and biscuits. Special interest groups, reading, history, scrabble, music and more meet on other days. Call 01667 453537 or visit nairnu3a.org.uk SALTIRE SOCIETY HIGHLAND BRANCH Meets Saturday mornings in Inverness for talks on a wide range of Scottish topics. St Andrews Day celebrations, Burns lunch & summer outing.

Call Alan Niven on 01667459449.

Email: alan.niven@hotmail.com

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page 4 - January 2013

T-EXCHANGE MAKERSPACE Make things, build things and exchange ideas. Third Friday of every month 7:30pm at Findhorn Village Centre. Details on www.t-exchange.net or contact Bill on 07925 551191.

NAIRN SPORTS CLUB Something for everyone - Fitness classes, Gym, Tennis, Squash & Badminton Courts, Sauna, Non-members welcome. Contact 454523 or email info@nairnsportsclub.co.uk SEAFORTH CLUB Private members club, welcoming guests & visitors to a warm, comfortable and friendly environment. Entertainment, incl. bingo & dancing to live music.

Contact 452509 THE ACCIDENTALS Nairn’s Community Choir.

Practices every Wed, 7.30 -9.30pm, St Columba’s church hall, Queen Street. Sing a cappella in four-part harmony.

New members welcome. Call 453838 or just come along.

TREES FOR LIFE GREEN DAYS OUT For people in Moray & Inverness-shire. Spend a day carrying out conservation tasks.

Transport, tools and training free of charge. Pick ups available.

Volunteers over 18 with a reasonable level of fitness. Every Wed & last Sun of the month.

Booking essential. Call Mick on 01309 691292 or email mick@treesforlife.org.uk CAWDOR BOWLING CLUB Provides a six rink green where club and open competitions are played. Spoon competition Friday’s 7pm. Coaching for learners on a Tuesday evening.

Contact 453698 CROSSROADS Provide and develop a high quality, cost effective, domiciliary respite care service for carers within Nairn & Distict. Contact 455369 CULBIN SINGERS Regular Thursday evening practice sessions take place in

St Laurence Church, Forres.

New members welcome. Email: alasdair@manachie.eclipse.co.uk GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND New branch volunteers needed at Nairn & Moray Branch. Call Anna Temple or Anna Roberts tel: 01309 694866 HIGHLAND HISTORICAL SEARCH SOCIETY Inverness based metal detecting club. Free equipment loan, tuition and regular places to detect. Beginners & new members welcome. Contact Len 01808 521340 anytime 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 MEN’S CHOIR Alternate Tuesdays 7.30pm to 9.30pm at St. John’s Church, Forres. All kinds of music. No experience necessary. Contact Bill 01309 672951 for more details MORAY & NAIRN FLORAL ART CLUB Come and watch talented flower demonstrators at work. Meets 2nd Wednesday each month at Applegrove Primary School Contact May Bichan 01343 850634.

MUSIC NAIRN Charitable organisation to promote about seasonal events.

Classical and chamber music of the highest quality chamber opera, poetry. Contact Nairn Community Centre 453476 NAIRN ANGLING ASSOCIATION Contact 459250 or email nairnangling@tiscali.co.uk

NAIRN BAPTIST CHURCH KRAFT CLUB Meets alternate Thursdays form 2-4pm at Blossoms Cafe on the Brae. Contact number 01667 453289 LGBT 5K RUNNING GROUP Meets every Wednesday. Email jampa40@yahoo.co.uk or text/call 07941 553620 for info.

NAIRN DISABLED SPORTS CLUB We cater for bowlers and athletes who have a disability.

Contact 07766 952477 NAIRN DOMINO LEAGUE Contact 452496 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 EQUESTRIAN FUN CLUB Contact 01309 641474 NAIRN HYDROTHERAPY POOL Monday - Saturday from 9.30am.

For general health and well-being.

Helps all ages & many mobility problems. Contact 455351 FORUM FOR MEN Meets every Wednesday. Social group for gay, t-men & bi. Email morgan@tramstop.org or text/call 07745 930383 for info.

FOR CLUBS & SOCIETIES AMENDMENTS, PLEASE PHONE:

01309 690063

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

NAIRN ARTS SOCIETY We meet in the Laing Hall, Fishertown. Regular demonstrations, exhibitions & sales of art works. Groups meet daily at various times. Contact Secretary Hazel Cullen: 456159. www.nairnarts.co.uk

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Nairn and District

The Editor

If you are reading this then you have made it successfully through Christmas again for another year - well done!

If you are anything like our family then you may well have overeaten and over imbibed.

This month’s edition of SpotLight has a number of local enterprises who will be happy to help shift some of those extra pounds.

Feeling Fat? Need to tone up?

PUBLISHER ...............David Nelmes SALES ......................Eilidh Conners SALES ...........................Peter Evans ACCOUNTS ...................Lynn Wood LAYOUT ........................Michelle Ho DESIGN .................Alistair Davidson ADMIN ....................Tamsyn Dickson

February 2013 Issue Deadlines Editorial: Friday 4th January 2013 Advertising: Wednesday 9th January 2013

Broadley Garden Centre

Closed from 25th December until 7th January

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Spend £10 and receive 1kg Bird Seed absolutely FREE*with this advert FEED ME

Cawdor Road, Nairn Tel: 01667 452955

www.broadleygardencentre.co.uk *Offer ends 31 January 2013. Offer limited to one per household

Range of High back chairs Riser/Recliner Chairs & Electric Beds... ...everything to keep you comfortable this winter.

Hours of Business MON - FRI 9am - 5pm

01309 676677 sales@wheelchaircare.co.uk 21 West Road, Greshop Industrial Estate, Forres IV36 2GW (Behind Lidl) Easy Parking & Disabled Toilet Facilities

A Vibrational Plate is a machine that gives the body's muscles a low-impact, high-speed workout by using vibrations to stimulate them to contract and relax. They generally contract once or twice a second, but just by standing on it, the vibrations cause an automatic reflex muscle contraction of 30-50 a second.

Just 10 minutes on the Vibrational Plate will have the same results as 60 minutes of conventional strenuous training.

U Improves fitness levels U Burns fat & tones UÊ «À ÛiÃÊL> > Vi & coordination UÊ «À ÛiÃÊv iÝ L ÌÞ & muscle strength UÊ VÀi>ÃiÃÊL iÊ density This type of workout has actually been compared to doing about 3,000 leg bends, which of course would be impossible with a traditional workout. This means that not only does vibration plate training work, but it’s the best kind of workout that you can get!

Many people who are excessively overweight have also said that it’s a great start to getting in shape because you don’t need to be extremely fit already to do it effectively.

Training sessions are undertaken in a private room with a trainer, or alone, after your 3rd session – so no need to feel embarrassed about coming along!

Initial session £15, all following sessions £5.

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PASTORAL LETTER & CHURCH MEETINGS One night a man had a dream. He dreamt he was in heaven and was being shown around the various parts of the city. He was taken into a very large room where many angels were very busy working – the whole place was a hive of activity.

"What’s going on here?", he asked.

His guide told him that this was the receiving room, the place where all the world’s prayer requests were received – millions of them every day. He was then taken to a second room, equally large and equally busy, with just as many angels hard at work at their jobs. "What’s going on here?", he asked again. The guide explained that this was the despatch department, where the answers to all these prayers were sent from. Then they came to another room, just as large as the other two but with only a few angels working in it, and some of them seemed to have very little to do.

"What about this?", he asked. "What happens here?" "Ah, very sad", said the guide.

"This is the acknowledgement department, the place where we receive the thanks

and gratitude for all the answered prayers sent out."

When you stop and think about it, and we certainly should at any time of year, let alone at Christmas, we, in this country, have so much to be thankful for. For all our problems we remain the world’s seventh largest economy, and we can’t generally be classed in the same category as the four billion people on the planet who are regularly short of food, though many people in our country know hardship too, of course. We don’t suffer from natural disasters such as tornadoes and earthquakes; our children don’t die of malaria or malnutrition; our homes have electricity, clean drinking water and flush toilets - we could go on…

"Well, tonight thank God it’s them instead of you". Bono didn’t want to sing that line in the Band Aid single, ‘Do they know it’s Christmas?’ Not if it was thought to suggest a kind of "I’m alright Jack, who cares about the rest of you anyway?" sort of attitude. However, he sang it when

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. Every third Sunday monthly 6pm. Contact the pastor: 01667 459672. Website: 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). Contact Minister Murdo MacLeod: 01667 459131.

Nairn Christian Fellowship Sundays 10.30am. Wednesday 7.30pm: praise and Bible study. Contact Sandy Shaw: 01667 456492.

Old Parish Church 10.30am: holiday worship and crèche.

page 6 - January 2013

he was persuaded that it simply meant we should be more grateful than we are for what we have got, and can always show it by, for example, helping to feed the world.

Supremely, as a Christian, what I need to be most thankful for is the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ into the world – the one whose birth the world commemorates at Christmas – the one who is the Saviour of all who believe in him and who look to him for their eternal salvation. Love came down at Christmas, bringing hope, light and life for all who will receive him. Thanks be to God for his indescribable Gift! (1 Corinthians 9 15).

Can I give him anything in return? I can, and should, just always give him thanks! And, if I mean it, I’ll prove it by following him in loving, faithful, obedient, and grateful appreciation.

Rev. Murdo Macleod Nairn Free Church

Contact Rev. Alistair S Younger: 01463 242873 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 10.30am: family worship.

6.30pm: evening prayer. Contact Rev. Canon Alison 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. First Sunday monthly 6.30pm.

If you are a member of a church not listed here, please email us with the details and we may print them in future issues.

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Nairn and District

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COMMUNITY COUNCIL NEWS

EXTRACTS FROM THE MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF 14TH NOVEMBER 2012 OF NAIRN WEST COMMUNITY COUNCIL

MATTERS ARISING RY had met with Highland Council Tourist Co-ordinator Mr Colin Simpson to discuss the lack of signage for Nairn. There is a sign on the Grantown Road indicating Auldearn with Nairn mentioned below it, but this sign is not prominently placed. A request was made to move it. However, this could prove expensive. RY and NWCC agree that signage for Nairn as a tourist town is vitally important and that we should endeavour to continue working with the Highland Council (HC)to improve signage.

RY had contacted Louise Clark (Ward Manager) to have signs placed in Nairn West Central Beach area, politely requesting that dogs be kept under control and stating that it is an offence not to pick up after your dog. NWCC had already agreed to contribute funding towards the signs.

POLICE REPORT RY welcomed PC David Mackay to the NWCC meeting. He gave the following statistics and summary.

Statistics – (October 2012) • Number of incidents recorded - 377 • Detected Drink Drivers – 4 • Dishonesties – 7 (includes thefts and frauds) • Shoplifting – 0 • Positive Drug Searches – 6 with personal quantities of cannabis and heroin seized.

• Domestic Incidents - 10 • Assaults – 4 (all detected) • Road Traffic fixed Penalties – 6 (5 for no tax disc) • Alcohol Seized from Underage – 1 • Vandalism – 4 (3 detected) PC Mackay particularly highlighted incidents of fraud and once again wished to warn householders across the Highlands and Islands not to give out any details to cold callers claiming to be from a bank.

A number of bank related frauds have been reported to Police over the past few weeks.

The most recent involved a £14,000 fraud from a member of the public in Shetland.

There have been other incidents which have resulted in total losses of £10,000.

The caller claims to be looking into recent transactions and proceeds to ask for

page 8 - January 2013

information such as name and address.

Police are urging householders not to give out any details to individuals claiming to be from the bank, especially details such as bank account numbers, passwords and other sensitive information.

There followed a discussion regarding phone scams that residents should be aware of. Residents should be aware of a new device which detects sounds from either an ATM machine or a telephone keypad. Individuals phone on the pretence they are from a bank and stating that there is a problem with your bank card. For security reasons they then ask you to use the keypad on the telephone to key in your pin. They then send a new card by courier taking the old card away and, in doing so, now have access to your account.

Another method discussed regarded automated phone calls which claim that you have won something. To retrieve the prize you have to press a number on your telephone keypad. When this is pressed it links to another dialing system and charges you £1.40 per minute to your billing account.

RY stressed that residents check bank statements and be more vigilant regarding rogue traders. PC Mackay advised that if residents have not ordered anything and receive calls offering new bank cards, ways to increase pension etc, these could be possible scams, and to hang up the telephone.

PC Mackay also asked that residents be vigilant with items left in their gardens at this time of year, such as garden tools, bikes left unlocked etc. SA asked if bikes can still be marked by police. PC Mackay encouraged cyclists to bring their bikes into Nairn Police station to be marked as this helped in retrieving bikes that are missing.

GK queried about littering fines. PC Mackay noted that the law states that persons dropping litter have to be given an opportunity to pick up the litter before it becomes an offence.

PC Mackay emphasised the importance of the public to report fly tipping.

PC Mackay added that detection rates in Nairn are amongst highest in area.

Continued co-operation between the community and police will assist in keeping detection rates quite high.

tel: 01309 690063

PLANNING ISSUES PLANNING AID SCOTLAND BUS STATION DECISION BS, on behalf of NWCC, had contacted Planning Aid Scotland regarding advice on two specific points regarding the bus station decision: 1) Was the official advice on the housing aspects on that application, objective, reasonable and proper? e.g. the housing development manager had used the inclusion of that proposal in an investment programme that had already gone to the Scottish Government as a reason that the committee should already approve it.

2) Whether a neutral analyst could offer a view on whether appropriate weight was given to all the considerations. The local plan argued against the planning application but this was overruled by the compelling need for affordable housing despite the fact that this land was not in a housing zoned area.

BS quoted from the reply from Planning Aid Scotland and then concluded as to a possible challenge to the decision on four counts: 1) Pre-emptive advice 2) Misdirection of the Committee 3) Poor design quality of the proposal 4) Inadequacy of the planners’ report, particularly with regard to departing from the Local Plan.

The experts went on to say that if a formal complaint was lodged with the HC then it was likely that defensive comments would ensue and that the planning ombudsman could only consider procedural matters, and in this instance HC could not be challenged. Any formal complaint would be subject to judicial review and would be very expensive. RY thanked BS for his detailed and thorough work.

NAIRN PLANNING LIST BS reported that the weekly planning list which community councils receive for Nairn was this week combined with the Inverness planning list. Fortunately, this decision was reversed and the weekly planning list for Nairn will remain separate.

BS offered thanks to Councillors and others who aided in reversing the decision.

SpotLight on Nairn and District

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USEFUL INFORMATION

Local Holidays

Christmas Day

Tues 25th Dec 2012

Good Friday

Boxing Day

Wed 26th Dec 2012

British Summertime Begins Sun 31st Mar 2013

New Year’s Day

Tues 1st Jan 2013

Scottish Bank Holiday Burns Night

Wed 2nd Jan 2013 Fri 25th Jan 2013

Fri 29th Mar 2013

Easter Monday

Mon 1st Apr 2013

Early May Bank Holiday Spring Bank Holiday

Mon 6th May 2013 Mon 27th May 2013

Shrove Tuesday

Tues 12th Feb 2013

Father’s Day

Sun 16th Jun 2013

Mother’s Day

Sun 10th Mar 2013

British Summertime Ends

Sun 27th Oct 2013

School Term Dates

Spring Term Starts Mid-Term Break

Mon 7th Jan 2013 Mon 11th - Fri 15th Feb 2013

Spring Term Ends Good Friday Holiday Easter Monday Holiday

Thurs 28th Mar 2013

Regional Closure

Mon 19th Aug 2013

Autumn Term Starts

Tues 20th Aug 2013

Autumn Term Ends

Fri 4th Oct 2013

Fri 29th Mar 2013

Regional Closure

Mon 21st Oct 2013

Mon 1st Apr 2013

Winter Term Starts

Tues 22nd Oct 2013

Summer Term Starts

Mon 15th Apr 2013

Winter Term Ends

Fri 20th Dec 2013

May Day Holiday

Mon 6th May 2013

Spring Term Starts

Mon 6th Jan 2014

Summer Term Ends

Fri 28th Jun 2013

Holiday Closure

Useful Telephone Numbers

Mon 17th Feb 2014

SCHOOLS

VETS

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

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

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

Nairn Community Centre ............................(01667) 453476 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

Lloyds Pharmacy ........................................(01667) 453100 Boots The Chemist ......................................(01667) 453169 If you have any suggestions for additional numbers, please contact us and we may include them in the magazine. page 10 - January 2013

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Nairn and District

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Supply and installation of Wood Burning Stoves Boiler Stoves & Range Cookers Call us on 01309 675 611 or visit www.tglsc.co.uk Showroom Now Open 29 West Road, Forres (Just off A96)

What’s On &),-3 s 3(/73 s %6%.43 s #/.#%243 s %4#

Please s end Us details Of YOUr e vents Website: www.spotlighton.co.uk email: michelle@spotlighton.co.uk telephone: 01309 690063

‘What’s On’ listings deadline for the february issue is friday 4th January 2013.

Please note: information supplied to spotlight is received in good faith, therefore, we may not be responsible for errors in the ‘What’s On’ section.

NAIRN

Nairn Community & Arts Centre Your Your local venue for films, shows, concerts, and parties.

Wide Wide range of activities for all ages.

JANUARY JANUAR RY EVENTS

Open all winter 10am - 4pm 7 days a week

Saturday 19th ................... W Wedding edding Exhibition Saturday 26th ............ ............The The Barbican Piano TTrio rio For further details, telephone 01667 453476, e-mail info@nairncc.co.uk or check out our website at www.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk www.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk the red hot highland fling 7pm - 1am. northern meeting park arena, inverness.

JANUARY 2013 1 tuesday 134 Harbour Street, Nairn IV12 4PH. T: 01667 454 774

8 tuesday the pink castle philosophy club: “what is the meaning of life?� 7:30pm. glen mhor hotel, inverness. fun & friendly ‘thinking lgbt club'. www.pinkcastle.eu

DECEMBER 31 monday the wee hot highland fling 12noon - 3pm. inverness city centre. musicians, costumed characters and dancers. page 12 - November 2012

salmon fishing in the yemen (2011 film, cert. pg-13) 7pm. universal hall, findhorn. 01309 690311.

9 wednesday nadfas fine art lecture: ‘introduction to the wonderful world of gemstones’ 11am. sherwood suite, eight

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Nairn and District

GARAGE Est. 1994

‡

Vehicle Servicing 4 Wheel Alignment ECU Remapping MOT’s Class 4 & 7

MOT Testing Station

Unit 10d Balmakeith Industrial Estate, Nairn IV12 5QW i“>ˆÂ?\ĂŠÂœvvˆViJLÂˆĂŒĂ˘}>Ă€>}i°VÂœÂ°Ă•ÂŽĂŠUĂŠ7iL\ĂŠLÂˆĂŒĂ˘}>Ă€>}i°VÂœÂ°Ă•ÂŽ

acres hotel, elgin. visitors welcome. “uncle george� - a personal view of george forrest (highland rock garden club) 7.30pm. nairn community centre. john owen: 01320 366246.

11 friday nairn literary institute: the nairn bus company by brian stewart 7:30pm. nairn free church, gordon st. non members ÂŁ3. www.nairnliterary.org.uk

14 monday timothy allen: human planet – a look behind the scenes of the TV series 7:30pm. highland council

chamber, inverness. rpreece@onetel.com

19 saturday wedding exhibition @ nairn community and arts centre 01667 453476. info@nairncc.co.uk www.nairncommunitycentre.co.uk nairn’s men’s breakfast 9:45am for 10am. windsor hotel, nairn. share food and fellowship. phone 01667 455149 by 18/1/13 for more info and to book.

23 wednesday nairn u3a: art in the third age: projects from highland print studio 1:45pm. nairn community centre. all welcome. 01667 453537. www.nairnu3a.org.uk

25 friday burns supper & ceilidh fundraiser 7pm. rec hall, raigmore hospital. ÂŁ17.50 with three course meal. contact aileen: atrappitt09@btinternet.com nairn literary institute: fin, fur and feather by charlie phillips 7:30pm. nairn free church, gordon st. all welcome. non members ÂŁ3. www.nairnliterary.org.uk

26 saturday crohn's and colitis uk highlands & islands group public meeting 11.15am. centre for health science, inverness. www.groups.crohnsandcolitis.org.uk/hi music nairn: the barbican piano trio @ nairn community & arts centre 7.30pm. playing brahms, paul schonfield & beethoven. 01667 453476. info@ forrestreeservices.com

TREE SURGERY AND FIREWOOD Domestic and Commercial STUMP REMOVAL ALSO AVAILABLE!

Fully insured and qualified

www. forrestreeservices.com

01309 675834

FEBRUARY 2013 in brief

1 friday british heart foundation (bhf) scotland: rock up in red wear your best red items. order free fundraising pack: 0300 330 0645. bhf.org.uk/red

Remedial Massage deep massage of tense muscles

2 saturday

promoting natural healing. Also Aromatherapy,

happy mums market 10am - 1pm. nairn community centre, king street, nairn. pop-up market dedicated to preloved baby & children’s items.

Indian Head and Swedish Massage Therapies.

7 thursday - 24 sunday

Clinical Reflexology uses different finger pressures on feet reflexes with the aim of

moray school of art: third year exhibition @ eden court, inverness

13 wednesday GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE SpotLight on Nairn and District

Reflexology uses different finger

“the cairngorm rare plants project� (highland rock garden club) 7.30pm. nairn community centre. tel: 01309 690063

November 2012 - page 13

travel

Dreaming of...

...a skiing holiday With the first of the snow arriving many will be turning their attention to their winter break skiing or snowboarding.

Apres-ski in Switzerland

More resorts are being made easily accessible from Scotland with direct flights to France, Austria, Switzerland and Bulgaria. One stop connections flights to Japan, America and Canada are available.

For those trying the sport for the first time or looking for value for money head to Bulgaria - a lift pass for the week costs less than ÂŁ100. Nursery slopes in Pamporovo are perfect for improving skills.

Unfortunately the limited kilometres of slopes here make it unsuitable for the more experienced.

They should choose to stay in the resort of Bansko where there is a choice of more challenging slopes.

Not got time for a full week away? Don't worry, many resorts and hotels will offer short breaks either mid week or over a weekend. To make the most of your time away choose a resort with a short transfer.

Les Gets in the Portes du Soleil area is less than one hour from Geneva. With direct flights from Glasgow or Edinburgh you could be on the slopes by lunchtime. From Les Gets you can also go over the border to Switzerland.

If you do have more time to spare why not combine the snow with beach or city! Adding a second centre to your holiday is easy and relatively inexpensive to do. Combine America’s number one city, New York with powder in Aspen or the golden sands or the Caribbean with Whistler in Canada. All Itineraries can be tailor made to suit your individual needs.

For something different why not try up and coming Japan. With huge snowfall and amazing scenery it’s perfect for your next trip. The ski season runs from mid November to mid April but the best conditions are found in January and February.

Niseko is the largest ski resort in western Hokkaido - best known for powder - on average 50 feet of snowfall per season!

Again, many people choose to add a second centre. Its easy to include the Japanese cities of Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka Wherever you choose to ski it is imperative you have the right insurance in place for you and your family. The correct policy can provide cover from everything from no snow coverage to damaged or stolen equipment. All policies are different so check you have adequate cover before hitting the slopes.

Enjoy your ski season!

14

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Whistler, Canada

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...with a Solar System from AES Ltd and Solar Scotia

We are the “original” Scottish Manufacturer of solar panels and have been manufacturing and installing solar systems in NE Scotland for 33 years, established 1979.

Our specialty is Bespoke Domestic and Commercial systems - DIY systems and components are available.

Free Quotation for Solar PV

and Solar Thermal (Hot Water) with no obligation. We offer MCS Accredited product and install service.

AES Ltd, AES Building Lea Road, FORRES IV36 1AU info@aessolar.co.uk www.aessolar.co.uk

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White W hite de-icing salt 25kg: £7.99

Snow sho vels Snow shovels and car de-icers de-icers

January Januar y

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All animal ffeed eed and bedding plus accessories Cr Craigfield aigfield FFarm, arm, Kintessack, Kintessack, Forres IV36 2SP HHPDLO PDUNIHUUDUL #DRO FRP ZHEVLWH )HUUDULKRUVHIHHGV FRP PDLO PDUNIHUUDUL #DRO FRP ZHEVLWH )HUUDULKRUVHIHHGV FRP

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Papercrafts ELGIN & Creative OLDMELDRUM www.sugarnellie.com Regular classes and workshops

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Both stores closed 23/12-3/01

SALE STARTS 4th January 10am

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Chef’s Confidential Chocolate Fondant Ingredients s G BUTTER s G PLAIN FLOUR s G CHOCOLATE s EGGS s EGG YOLKS s G CASTER SUGAR Method -ELT CHOCOLATE AND BUTTER TOGETHER IN A BAIN MARIE 7HISK EGGS YOLKS AND SUGAR UNTIL PALE !DD CHOCOLATE MIX &OLD IN EGG MIX AND THEN FOLD IN FLOUR &ILL INDIVIDUAL DISHES #OOK AT 0C for MINUTES

16

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KICK START FAT LOSS CLUB

Have you tried numerous diets without getting lasting results?

Remedial Massage Therapy is soft tissue manipulation. It can be deep and is generally concentrated on one problem area at a time. It can be applied where muscle is under stress. Consider Remedial Massage for muscle aches, tension, strains, post-injury recovery and joint pain.

Remedial Massage Therapy for sports people may aid muscle recovery following intense activity. In addition, it may help reduce muscle spasm ‘knots’ and prevent injury.

Are you confused about nutrition, which foods to eat and are bombarded with conflicting weight loss information?

Absolute Therapy treatments are performed by a professionally qualified and experienced Remedial Massage Therapist and Reflexologist.

Are you getting the desired results from your current exercise regime?

The aim is to provide a high quality service with attention to detail, focusing on you. To enable you to receive the best 'treat or treatment', you will receive a consultation prior to bodywork. Added value may be offered in the form of free specific products to suit you such as; Lifestyle, Stress Management or Exercise Advice should you wish that little bit extra for your wellbeing.

Kick Start Fat Loss Club is a revolutionary new programme combining a 28 day detox diet plan, weekly club workout and daily online support.

Are you unhappy with your body shape?

Do you have stubborn areas of your body that seem resistant to change?

Would you like the support of a positive, like-minded and proactive group?

It’s time for a change - it’s time to uncover the truth about diet and exercise.

KSFL uses a clean, easy to follow diet and detox plan by eliminating addictive processed food and detoxifying the body enabling you to burn more fat, have tons more energy, become slimmer, leaner and mentally on top of your game.

To get the desired results, a combination of correct nutrition, exercise at the right intensity, mindset coaching and motivation. KSFL combines all of these crucial ingredients for your success. All are delivered in a friendly, supportive and positive group.

If you want to lose 3lbs or 3 stones Kick Start Fat Loss will give YOU the body of your dreams. Live the life you really want and feel amazing.

GOOD HEALTH & WELL-BEING Now everything is returning to normal after the festivities, lots of us are embarking upon fitness programmes.

To help the body move more freely and efficiently our muscles and skeleton need to work together.

Problems can be caused by muscle tension, injury, poor posture and everyday stresses and strains.

Such difficulties may be experienced by anyone and of any age, not only sports people.

18

LOOKING AFTER FOOTCARE Should your feet be high up your list of priorities?

Absolutely!

We only get one pair of feet so it’s important to take good care of them. During your lifetime, your feet could walk the equivalent of four times around the world! To make sure that your feet stay fit, you need to look after them, keeping them clean, warm and well supported in good fitting shoes.

If you are over 60, foot care becomes even more important. Age takes it’s toll: skin thins, joints begin to stiffen and feet become more vulnerable to the cold. Physically reaching our own feet can become more difficult and failing eyesight doesn’t help. In the elderly long nails can become a significant health issue because, if you can’t walk comfortably you are less likely to get out and about and take part in the social activities or daily exercise that is vital for our health and well being.

Seeking help and advice about foot problems quickly will save you a wealth of discomfort both now and in the future, and will get your feet happy again!

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Body Control Pilates Instructor Qualified & teaching in the area since 2000 Small and bespoke matwork classes

This space could have been promoting your business!

SpotLight covers six area across the Moray Firth Coastline from Buckie and Keith across to Inverness and then down to Aviemore - and all the places in between!

Studio Equipment Sessions Private Lessons Instruction from beginner to advanced levels

T: 01309 690410 E: sarah@pilatesinverness.com

Contact us for details of rates and sizes: (01309) 690063

RE DU CE D

Nairn Scenic Properties NAIRN SCENIC PROPERTIES 1 Bridge Street, Nairn IV12 4EJ

OFFICE

01667 459889

To view full details and all our properties please see our website www.nairnscenicproperties.com admin@nairnscenicproperties.com

12 Table Road, NAIRN Offers Over £157,000 Popular 3 bedroom detached bungalow built to the 'Fenwick' style on the desirable Dunbar Reach Development. Best buy on the development. Must view this newer, well presented property in quiet location.

9 Seabank Rd, NAIRN IV12 4ES REDUCED! Fixed Price £153,500 - £6,500 Below Survey Value!

Charming 2 bedroom cottage with super private garden in the desirable West End of Nairn.

Downstairs bedroom and WC. Must view to appreciate!

7A Society St, NAIRN, IV12 4PF Fixed Price £110,000 Charming Victorian one bed villa close to the beach in Fishertown.

Well proportioned Lounge with high ceilings and cosy wood burner. New Kitchen and bathroom. Great first time buy.

RE

DU C

4 Osprey Crescent Nairn Offers Over £168,000.

This bungalow has been upgraded and extended and offers 3 good sized double bedrooms, lounge, kitchen, sunroom, new bathroom and Cloakroom/wc.

ED

Allanswell, Cawdor Road, AULDEARN, IV12 5TQ REDUCED – FIXED PRICE £190,000 - £10,000 BELOW SURVEY Desireable 3 bed/2 bath spacious bungalow with conservatory. Located in quiet cul-de-sac with attractive gardens front and rear. Early viewing recommended.

38 Osprey Crescent Nairn Offers Over £155,000

Superb bungalow which is set in a large corner plot presenting excellent potential for further development. Cloakroom/WC, Lounge, Kitchen, 2 double bedrooms, bathroom, integrated garage.

“Parliament Blog”

© Nikki Mack

PARLIAMENT BLOG & TIDE TIMES

Speaking to people out and about the Highlands this winter, many have resolutions for the coming year which focus on those around them: spend more time with their families and friends, lose weight and

cut down on excesses.

And while I applaud - and share - those aims, for me, tackling the issues which face hard working families will remain top of my agenda in the coming 12 months.

As a Liberal Democrat in government, I will continue trying to make people’s lives easier through measures like the tax discount for those on low and average incomes, the fuel duty discount, and new legislation ensuring people get the best deal from their energy provider.

So, as we usher in 2013, I am sure that you will join me in the hope that it is a year filled with the success and achievements you hope for yourselves.

It is never too late to make a New Year’s resolution. May I suggest one which would open up many pleasurable days, for yourself and your family.

This year, 2013, is the year of Natural Scotland. We have chosen to brand this year thus - to highlight for visitors and local alike, the enormous and varied attractions Scotland has to offer us all.

Our lochs, bens, glens, castles, gardens, our indigenous birds and wild animals all offer a terrific experience to enjoy. In addition to that, we have many attractions such as museums, art galleries, fine buildings, events and festivals that all celebrate our natural attractions. So, that resolution: why not make this year the year when we no longer take all of what we have for granted? I know that, perhaps through inertia or the lame excuse of being "too busy", the armchair can beckon when it would be perfectly easy to venture out to see the local Grantown museum, to have a trip on the local Strathspey railway, to visit Landmark, or to visit the Highland Wildlife Park.

And there are so many opportunities in this part of the world, in Inverness city and county and in Nairn and shire as well as Badenoch and Strathspey; we are blessed with some of the finest country in the world. Many folk do take full advantage. But perhaps it is true that many more of us do not. Why not put that right in the course of the year? Why not make a resolution to visit some of the local attractions and perhaps take a trip or a short break to another part of Scotland? Why not make this year the year when we discover, or rediscover, our own country? There are a whole series of events planned for ‘Year of Natural’ - and they are outlined on the VisitScotland website: www.visitscotland.com. In addition to that, there are a whole series of local community events that are planned across the country. All of them can be a great experience for yourself and your family.

Danny Alexander MP

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

TU W TH F SA SU M

AM 07:16 07:23 07:51 08:35 09:38 11:38 01:06

page 20 - November 2012

PM 20:31 21:07 21:47 22:41 23:48 13:12

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

Fergus Ewing MSP

AM 02:17 03:21 04:21 05:15 06:01 06:44 07:26 08:04 08:40 09:09 09:36 10:16

PM 14:57 16:02 16:58 17:49 18:35 19:19 20:04 20:48 21:29 22:04 22:33 23:15

tel: 01309 690063

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

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

AM 11:31 00:32 02:44 03:24 03:15 03:55 04:46 05:32 06:13 06:51 07:25 07:51

PM 14:24 15:21 16:07 16:44 17:15 17:47 18:22 18:58 19:35 20:14 20:51

SpotLight on Nairn and District

GOLF VIEW HOTEL & SPA, NAIRN

Leisure Club Membership New Year New You!

hs 12 montrice p e Save up to for th nuaall of 9^ boneran £2 42* ship mem rates!

No joining fee!

Membership includes access to: • 14 Metre Swimming Pool

• Steam Room

• Fully Equipped Gym

• Sauna

Members also benefit from:

• Nautilus and Star Trac Fitness Equipment

• Jacuzzi

• 25% OFF food in the hotel bar and restaurant

• Personal training sessions available at additional cost

• 25% OFF all spa treatments in our Sonas Spa

• Outdoor Hot Tub

To join and for more information please call on 01667 452 301 *Discount quoted applies to annual family membership rate, and is based on two adults and two children aged 5-15 years. ^12 months for the price of 9 offer expires January 31st 2013 (New memberships only).

Traditional Spa day with lunch Sunday Lunch Every Sunday in January 12.30pm to 3.30pm

January to June, Monday to Friday. Includes lunch from our Dip & Dine menu, full use of leisure facilities and 30% off our listed spa treatments!

ONLY

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To book please call 01667 452 301. Treatments must be booked 7 days in advance and Spa days over bank holidays include a £4 supplement.

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: golfview@crerarhotels.com

WWW.CRERARHOTELS.COM

Full Crerar Hotels terms and conditions apply. 30% spa treatment offer unable to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

garden

SUMMER MONTHS

Our small team at Cawdor, Alastair, Fiona, Suzie (dog) and Robert, will have a busy year ahead as we will have over 1,000 regular customers presenting us with their lawn problems. We are pretty small up here though, GreenThumb across the UK will hit 500,000 customers this year ! We will be providing local monthly updates as the season unfolds through the year again in Spotlight Magazine. This will also be our 2nd year at Pinewood Cottage and we thought it might be nice to let you see where we are based.

Although we don’t know exactly what the weather will throw at us this season, we have a fair idea what we will be asked to tackle. Highlights will likely include:

WINTER MONTHS Moss and thatch; we will be aerating and scarifying all hours of the day to get through everybody before the Spring Weed and Feed Treatments start.

Also look out for leatherjackets emerging (crane fly grubs) and eating lawn roots, sometimes causing devastation.

SPRING MONTHS Weedkill and Spring fertiliser; we will want some decent weather to get lawns off to a good start.

Many of you will remember 2 weeks of hot sun in March last year, quickly followed by a week of snow and hard frost in April, which set the tone for a very poor season in the garden.

22

Mowing; best practice is never cut shorter than 1”.

Mowing too close is the most destructive thing you can do to a lawn (usually a man-thing) and in particular encourages moss to flourish ! June is when we will likely see the first signs of Red Thread fungal disease damage. Wet summers are the worst, and last summer was the worst yet !

AUTUMN MONTHS Moss control treatments and winter feeds; we will want to get all our customers’ lawns ready for next winter, and most will want to think about aerating and scarifying outwith the growing season, either themselves or using us and our machines.

For more information about seasonal lawn improvements from just £15 per qtr, plus useful downloads and photos, go to www.greenthumb.co.uk. Although GreenThumb is a national franchise with over 200 branches across the UK, we are locally based in Cawdor and cover the whole Moray Firth area. Contact Alastair or Fiona for a FREE LAWN ANALYSIS on 01667 404774, or email us at: inverness@greenthumb.co.uk NEW FOR 2013, A WHOLE YEAR BASIC LAWN TREATMENT PROGRAMME FROM JUST £5 PER MONTH (NOW WITH DIRECT DEBIT OPTION)

Talk Lawn is sponsored by

# !

!

Specially for you!

I may never meet you personally, but there is something I want to tell you.

It is of such importance that I would be unkind if I didn’t let you know: yet it is so simple that you can read it in a few minutes.

It is so vital that it may change your entire future: yet it is available to you at no cost whatever.

It is a message that you may not like: yet you will never be able to forget it.

And whether you believe it or not, it will affect you in life and in death.

First of all let me emphasise that this message is absolutely true, because it is God who said it. When God makes a statement you can afford to accept it, because He cannot lie. When God makes a promise, you can rest upon it, because His promises can never fail. God will not make you believe this message – that is your choice – but He will hold you responsible for having heard it.

Then let me tell you that this is a personal message to you.

You cannot escape it. It brings you to the place of decision.

You must either accept it or reject it. You must either say “I will” or “I will not”. You cannot be neutral.

Here, then, is the message. It is an exact quotation from God’s Word, the Holy Bible:

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John3:16) Now, did you ever hear such wonderful words as these before? Are they not amazing? Just think for a moment what they say! They reveal three marvellous and thrilling facts.

“

First, “GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD!” since you are in the world, it means that He loved you. If that does not startle you, remember that when God loved you, He loved a sinner, because that is what you are.

The bible says that you are a sinner (Romans 3:23), and if you are honest you will agree. Now, although God loves you. He hates your sin. Sins will keep you out of Heaven, because God is holy and He must punish sin.

Thus a holy God must find a holy way of saving sinners.

Otherwise the sinner must pay for his sins, and that would mean spending eternity in Hell.

The second great fact is this: “HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON”. The first statement tells you that God loved you. This statement tells you how much He loved you. He loved you so much He gave His only begotten Son! Do you know what that means? It means that the Lord Jesus Christ suffered on the cross of Calvary so that you might be saved. He shed His blood so that your sins might be put away. He died for you so that you might live in Heaven forever. You see – someone must pay the penalty for sin, either you or a sinless substitute. God gave His Son so that He could be your sinless substitute.

And now for the third tremendous fact: “WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH IN HIM SHOULD NOT PERISH BUT HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE”.

What could be more wonderful? Think of it! God gives eternal life to those who believe in Christ. The Saviour has finished the work. He has died, has risen from the grave and gone back into Heaven.

Now your part is to believe in Him. This simply means that you should confess that you are a sinner, realise that Christ is willing and able to meet your need, and then receive Him as your Lord and Saviour.

This is the message which I had to tell you. Now you must make a decision. Will you accept Him or reject Him? Will you believe on Him or will you refuse Him? Will you bow humbly before Him or will you turn away in pride?

I may never meet you upon earth, but I hope I will meet you in Heaven. If you too will accept the sinner’s Saviour, then you will be surely saved.

The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into His hand. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. (John 3:35,36)

“Neither salvation any other:: for for ther there “Neither is there there salv ation in an y other e is none other name under hea heaven ven giv given en among men, wher whereby eby w we e must b be e sa saved” ved” Acts Acts 4:12

”

Published by www.wordsbythewayside.co.uk Registered Scottish Charity SCO41290

leisur leisure e

Inbhir Ăˆireann Findhorn

The landscape of the bay has the most magical quality of unrivalled beauty and charm. Competing forces of wind, waves and currents moulded the coasts soft sand and shingle into the sheltered haven we have today.

The name Findhorn comes from

long ago settled the peninsula.

the Gaelic for the White sands of

The present village of Findhorn is

Ireland, referring to the Gaels who

the third settlement to bear that name, the last one being lost in the late 17th Century storms.

In 1998 the bay was designated as a local Nature Reserve Findhorn’s village local community manage and care for the Reserve along with the help of Scottish Natural Heritage.

Ian Cameron Copyright

24

Wintering wildfowl, birds in passage and summer residents including Ospreys from West Africa make the bay an international airport, bringing birds by the thousands to the bay.

Sharing the bay brightly coloured yachts, dinghies, power boats, wind surfers and kite surfers making Findhorn Bay one of Scotland’s best kept secrets – a paradise yet to be discovered and treasured by the local people and visitors alike.

On a busy summers day the north end of the bay is a hub of activity, with

courses, Kayaking and Powerboat

people playing on the beach,

Training. A Water Taxi is also available for

watching or taking part in some of the

people who would like to venture across

many watersports or just relaxing at the

the bay to the beautiful Culbin Forest.

‘Captain’s Table Cafe.’

For further information on any of the

Watersports activities from the

courses mentioned please contact the

Findhorn Marina are: Sailing, Sailing

Findhorn Marina on 01309 690099.

EVERY EVERY D DAY’S AY’S A FUN DAY AT T FINDHORN MARINA MARINA Learn to sail or Powerboat

Findhorn Seals Club

We run courses all year round and dates to suit you.

Also at Highland Marine Training, Inverness.

Come and join the seals for a fun day out playing on and off the water in safety.

Our Sailing courses are available for children and adults. All levels and skills are taught, eg: 1,2,3,4 Dinghy, Seamanship, Day Sailing and Spinnaker. Also available are VHF, RYA/MCAA, Sea Survival, RYA

Fancy a walk on the wildside of the bay? Get the taxi

Watertaxi

Kayaking Fancy a paddle? Kayak hire available

FI

Findhorn Marina is an RYA training centre and is approved

by Visit Scotland, Learn Direct, AALA, also listed with Moray and Aberdeenshire councils as a provider.

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FFindhorn, indhorn, Mor Morayshire ayshire IV36 3YE Tel: T el: 01309 690099 FFax: ax: 01309 690165 Email: info@findhornmarina.com

25

educate ...identify badger tracks; build a human tree...

Woodland Activity Leader Training

Unique, Accredited Qualification Practical, hands-on skills Course dates: 20th/21st April, 18th/19th May, and 8th/9th June 2013.

BOOK NOW

Call 01309 690450! www.wild-things.org.uk !

Wild things! - the Moray-based environmental education charity, would like to congratulate all 2012 participants on completing our inaugural Woodland Activity Leader Training courses. We are so proud of how hard our participants worked - learning new skills and games - even building human pyramids. Where else, but Wild things!, can you learn to identify badger tracks; build a human tree and spend an afternoon attacking your fellow participants whilst pretending to be a Wood Ant? All of this…and gain an accredited qualification too!

"This may well be one of the most inspiring courses I have ever done."

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Woodland Activity Leader Training provides the knowledge and skills to enable you to confidently take groups out and lead environmental education sessions.

The most recent course was fully booked, so we're pleased to announce new dates for Spring 2013 20th/21st April, 18th/19th May, and 8th / 9th June 2013.

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NEW YEAR CLASSES FOR ADULTS & CHILDREN! DAY, EVENING, AFTER-SCHOOL & SATURDAY PROGRAMMES UÊÊ Ài>Ì ÛiÊ ÀÌÃÊÊUÊÊ «ÕÌ }ÊÊUÊ > }Õ>}iÃÊÊUÊÊ->ÌÕÀ`>ÞÊ -Ì>ÀÃÊ-Ì>}iÊ-V TOP-UP TUITIONÊv ÀÊ> ÊÃV ÊÜ À ÊÊÊUÊÊÊ vÊÞ Õ½ÀiÊà ÌÌ }Ê } iÀÃÊ Ê >Þ]Ê` ½ÌÊ ÃÃÊEASTER HOLIDAY REVISION WEEK

94 Academy Street, Inverness: near bus/rail & car parks

01463 71 61 51 www.mftcollege.co.uk

Educate

Study opportunities in your local Learning Centres starting in January 2013 Buckie Learning Centre, Moray College UHI, Douglas Centre, Marchmont Crescent, Buckie.

AB56 4BT

Forres Learning Centre, Moray College UHI, Leys Road, Forres.

IV36 1DS

Learning Steps To gain confidence in specific applications, such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint.

Photo Editing for Beginners Learn how to edit photos using Adobe Photoshop Elements 10.

Keith Learning Centre, Moray College UHI, Kynoch Park, Balloch Court, Keith.

AB55 5HZ

Skill Level

Duration and Study Mode

Intermediate

Up to 20 weeks to complete Flexible Learning with tutor support

Beginner - some 20 week course basic skills required Tutor-led / Set start dates

Moray College UHI, Moray Street, Elgin, Moray.

IV30 1JJ

Nairn Learning Centre, Moray College UHI, Unit 10B, Balmakeith Industrial Estate, Nairn.

IV12 5QW

Award

Cost

College Certificate

ÂŁ52

College Certificate

ÂŁ52

Digital Skills

Beginner

Up to 7 months to complete Accredited by BCS, the Flexible/Online Learning with tutor support Chartered Institute of IT

ÂŁ95

Computer and Online Basics

Beginner

20 week course Tutor-led / Set start dates

Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute of IT

ÂŁ75

ECDL Essentials

Beginner

Up to 6 months to complete Flexible Learning with tutor support

Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute of IT

ÂŁ122 (ILA)

ECDL Extra

Intermediate

Up to 9 months to complete Flexible Learning with tutor support

Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute of IT

ÂŁ165 (ILA)

ECDL

Intermediate

Up to 1 year to complete Flexible Learning with tutor support

Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute of IT

ÂŁ245 (ILA)

Advanced

Up to 1 year to complete Flexible Learning with tutor support

Accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute of IT

ÂŁ95 (ILA)

Advanced ECDL

All Moray College UHI Learning Centres have been awarded Approved Centre status by %&6 the Chartered Institute of IT

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You may be eligible for an individual learning account which will help with the course fees for those courses marked (ILA).

For more information and to check your eligibility for an ILA telephone 0808 100 1090 or visit their website www.ilascotland.org.uk You should register with ILA Scotland at least 4 weeks before the start date of the course.

You must have your ILA in place before you commence a course â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we cannot adjust fees for the ILA Scotland scheme after you have started a course.

For details of our other part-time learning opportunities and leisure courses Â&#x2021; ZHE ZZZ PRUD\ XKL DF XN SDUW WLPH OHDIOHW Â&#x2021; WHOHSKRQH Â&#x2021; HPDLO PF UHJLVWU\ PRUD\#XKL DF XN Â&#x2021; YLVLW XV 0RUD\ &ROOHJH 0RUD\ 6WUHHW (OJLQ 0RUD\ ,9 - 0RQGD\ 7KXUVGD\ DP SP )ULGD\ DP SP Leisure courses do not qualify for ILA Funding or Remission of Fees. Material costs are not included in the price.

Board of Management of Moray College is a Registered Scottish Charity, No. SC021205

Educate

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Boost your skills and job prospects Get a qualification employers really value Our qualifications are recognised and respected by employers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they understand the effort students have to put in to achieve one. They also value the skills that students learn and can apply directly in the workplace.

Learning that fits around your life Studying with us gives you maximum flexibility to fit study around you, wherever you live.

Improve your prospects today

0845 300 6090 Quoting ref RAPAAJ www.openuniversity.co.uk/scotland

INSPIRING LEARNING The Open University is incorporated by Royal Charter (RC 000391), an exempt charity in England and Wales and a charity registered in Scotland (SC 038302).

Educate

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