SpotLight on Strathspey by david nelmes

DECEMBER 2012

Strathspey T H E

N O R T H ’ S

FAV O U R I T E

F R E E

W E E

M A G ’ !

# / - - 5 . ) 4 9 s 3 4 9 , % s % !4 ) . ' / 5 4 s &! 3 ( ) / . This Month Elgin BID............................p10

Travel: Dubai .....................p16

Chef’s Confidential ............p18

Where’s Santa?..................p13 Speyside Dental.................p15 Logie Steading...................p17 Motoring section ..........p20-21 Property section.......p22-24 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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p3 & 11

Unique Beauty

The Editor

IIT’S T ’ S PARTY PA R T Y TIME! TIME!

Santa’s coming - normally a time of cheer and goodwill but through RAF or Army deployments, offshore work commitments or other reasons many of local families will be without their loved ones this Christmas. So while you're tucking into your turkey, remember those who are thousands of miles on this special day.

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

January 2013 Issue Deadlines Editorial: Friday 30th November Advertising: Wednesday 5th December

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

November SpotLight front cover picture was by Samuel Silva. Samuel’s art can be seen on his website at:

www.vianaarts.deviantart.com

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

CLUBS & SOCIETIES AVIEMORE TINY TOTS Wednesdays 10am - 12noon, Aviemore Youth Centre. Indoor play equipment & activities for 0 3 year olds. Facebook page Aviemore Tiny Tots. Email :aviemoretinytots@hotmail.co.uk BEADING & JEWELLERY MAKING WORKSHOPS The Imagination Workshop, Inverdruie, Aviemore. Learn how to use beads and wire to make your own amazing jewellery. Call Gayle Penney on 01479 812111 BADENOCH & STRATHSPEY RAMBLERS Every other weekend, alternate Saturdays & Sundays. Contact Elizabeth Longley 01479 851735 / timlis.longley@tiscali.co.uk for more information about our walks and membership details. MORTLACH ART GROUP Every Thursday, 1pm - 4:30pm in the Mortlach Memorial Hall, Dufftown. All welcome, 16 up. BOHARM BOOTCAMP Monday and Thursday classes 7pm - 8pm. Beginners’ class starting Tuesday 4th September

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page 4 - December 2012

7:30pm - 8.30pm at Boharm Hall, Mulben. Classes £1.50. Contact Lorraine: 01582 860338. HIGHLAND SPIRITUAL CINEMA

6.45pm (Sept - April) start at The Fleming Hall, Queens Road, Aberlour, Speyside. Secretary Audrey Marr Tel: 07855 087984 To book your seat phone Mike on 01343 543962

Inverness-based film group with monthly screenings of uplifting and inspiring films that educate, entertain and enlighten, with the opportunity to participate in post-film discussion. Tel: 01463 237452. www.highlandspiritualcinema.net

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS Free, confidential help & support to the relatives & friends of problem drinkers. Local weekly groups in Highland area. Call 020 7403 0888 for a local contact number for your area.

KINGUSSIE PARENT, BABY & TODDLER GROUP Thursdays 9.15am - 11.30am, Badenoch Centre, Spey Centre, Kingussie. Call 01540 662485 for more information.

AVIEMORE BOWLING CLUB Indoor short mat. Club night 7pm. Every Monday and Wednesday. Members £2. Visitors £3. For further info e.mail norriemacleodabc@gmail.com

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY (MORAY BANFF AND BADENOCH BRANCH) Meets 2nd Wednesday of the month at 11am in the Sherwood Suite at the Eight Acres Hotel, Elgin. Monthly lectures on a variety of arts related subjects are delivered by experts from across the UK. New members always welcome. Contact Sarah Fennings-Mills: 01343 831002 or www.nadfas-in-elgin.org.uk

AVIEMORE BOWLING CLUB Bingo night. Eyes down 7.30 pm. Every Thursday. Entry 30p. £3 for 6 books. £1 for the Flyer

SPEY ART CLUB Every Wednesday 7pm - 9pm at Grantown Grammar School Art Room, PH26 3HU. New members always welcome. Contact Liz on 01479 872085 SPEYSIDE VOLLEYBALL Monday evenings 7pm - 10pm in The Games Hall, Speyside Community Centre, Aberlour. Men, women, youths, juniors, seniors, all welcome. Contact Stewart on 01340 871730 STRATHSPEY RAILWAY ASSOCIATION Supporters of the Strathspey Steam Railway. Keeping Steam Alive in the Highlands. Visit www.strathspeyrailway.net for info & membership details. Volunteers week 21 to 28 July 2012 email laurence.grant@ strathspeyrailway.co.uk ABERLOUR BRIDGE CLUB Wednesday nights 6.30pm for a

Apr) Visitors and new members are always welcome. Call 01479 872672 GRANTOWN ON SPEY LAWN TENNIS CLUB Junior & adult coaching is run throughout the year. The club also participates in the Highland District Leagues. Call 01479 873120 GRANTOWN PARENT, BABY AND TODDLER GROUP Twice weekly at Inverallan church hall for fun & play for children & parents/carers alike. All welcome to pop in for a chat and a coffee. Call Emmeline on 01479 873166 for information.

AVIEMORE CEILIDH DANCERS Meet monthly, 8pm - midnight at the Aviemore Village Hall. Licensed bar and interval with refreshments and raffle. For details contact Patsy Thompson on 01540 651377

AVIEMORE COMMUNITY CAFE Wednesdays 10am - 4pm. St Andrew's Church Hall. Tea, coffee, home baking; and homemade soup and roll or cheese scone from 12noon. A warm welcome awaits you. Contact Jane Alexander: pjanealexander@gmail.com

SCOTTISH WOMENS RURAL INSTITUTE 3rd Wednesday of the month, 7:30pm at St. Andrew’s Church Hall, Aviemore. Find friendship, support, fun and laughter in this unique organisation. Call SWRI headquarters on 0131 225 1724 for more info.

EDINVILLIE CRAFT CLUB Ladies from Edinvillie & Aberlour district meet at the Edinvillie Hall every Tuesday 2pm - 4pm, from October to April, to teach each other new crafts. GRANTOWN-ON-SPEY BOWLING CLUB Club nights on Monday. ‘Come and Try’ on Thursday evenings. All welcome. Equipment provided Contact: Sandra South on 01479 873510

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.

GRANTOWN ON SPEY BRIDGE CLUB Mondays, 7pm in Grantown’s Episcopal Church Hall (Oct to

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Strathspey

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 round 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 complementary 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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PASTORAL LETTER & CHURCH MEETINGS The Lord is with us always, even in times of trial and tribulation. The story of Joseph, son of Jacob, in the Book of Genesis from chapter 37 onwards, will testify to that. He is 17 years old when we first encounter him in the fields tending the flocks with his brothers. He was a bit of a clype (37:2) which did not endear him. Neither did the fact that he was his father’s favourite (37:3) or that he was prone to having dreams suggesting that he was superior to his parents and his brothers (37:5-11). His brothers would have killed him but for the intervention of Reuben, the first-born son. Instead they hid him in a cistern before selling him to some Midianite merchants (37:23-28). And we are told that the Lord was with him (39:2). He was sold to Potiphar the Captain of the Guard in Pharaoh’s palace, where he prospered and was trusted with charge of the household. But trouble found him again, when as a righteous man, he rejected the amorous advances of the Guard Commander’s wife and incurred her fury. With neither corroboration nor foundation she falsely accused him and he was unjustly imprisoned. And yet, we are told the

Lord was with Joseph (39:20-21). He did, however, find favour with the jailer who put him in charge of all the prisoners. Joseph was a dreamer and his dreaming would now save his and his family’s lives as well as those of countless others. In fact, this proved to be God’s purpose for him all along (45:5). Only Joseph, after prayer to God, could fathom the content and meaning of the Pharaoh’s dreams and only Joseph could warn him of impending famine and of the action he needed to take. Joseph became Governor of Egypt, but when his family came from Canaan, seeking for food, they did not recognise him. He recognised them, but there was no malice on his part. In fact, he forgave them and loved them, including Benjamin, the wee brother he had never met. Amazingly, Joseph told his brothers that in the end it was not them who sent him to Egypt but God. Hopefully, we shall never suffer as Joseph did, but no doubt we will experience some disappointment, slander, unfairness and injustice in life. Let us take heart then from the knowledge that the Lord is with us

Abernethy Parish Church Nethy Bridge. Sundays 9.30am: family morning service. Followed by refreshments. Traditional service at 12 noon. Tel: 01479 821280. Aberlour Parish Church The Square, Aberlour. Sunday 11.15am. Alvie & Insh Church of Scotland Our churches can be found beside Loch Insh for morning worship at 09.30am & Loch Alvie where we meet at 7.00pm. If bad weather is forecast, changes might be made to these venues. Please call 01540 661918 for confirmation of where we will meet. Badenoch Free Church Ruthven Road, Kingussie. Sundays 11am and evening service 6pm. Boat of Garten Parish Church, St Columba's Boat of Garten. Sunday morning service 10am. Evening worship at Kincardine Church, 6pm the second Sunday of most months: please check the weekly press. Contact tel.: 01479 831252. Craigellachie Church Victoria Street, Craigellachie. Sundays 9.45am. Dulnain Bridge, Church of Scotland Sunday services 12noon. Duthil Parish Church Carrbridge. Sunday morning service at 11.30am. Tel: 01479 831252. Grantown Baptist Church High Street, Grantown-on-Spey. Sundays 11am and evening service at 6pm. All welcome. Contact Rev. Rick Moeller: 01479 873125. Inverallan Parish Church Church of Scotland.

page 6 - December 2012

always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:20). This truth is so wonderfully illustrated when nearly two thousand years later an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to another righteous Joseph, who was betrothed to the virgin Mary. The angel said: “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:19-21). All this took place to fulfil what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son and they will call him Immanuel – which means, “God with us.” (Matthew 1:22-23). May you know the presence of the Lord Jesus with you this Christmas and always!

Rev. Bob Anderson, Knockando, Elchies & Archiestown linked with Rothes

Grantown-on-Spey. Sundays 10.30am with crèche. All welcome. Contact Rev. Morris Smith: 01479 872084. Kingussie Parish Church Sundays 11am. All welcome. Website: www.kingussieparishchurch.org.uk Knockando, Elchies & Archiestown Parish Church of Scotland Sundays 10am. Tel : 01340 831381. Rothes Parish Church Sundays 11.30am. Tel: 01340 831381. Rothiemurchus & Aviemore Church of Scotland St Andrews Church, Grampian Road, Aviemore. Sundays 11.15am. Website: www.standrews-aviemore.org.uk St Columba Episcopal Church High Street, Grantown, P26 3LD. Sundays 10.30am: Holy Communion. Ven. Richard Gillings: richard.gillings698@btinternet.com or phone 01479 831365. St John Episcopal Church Sunday 10.30am: Eucharist. Followed by refreshments in the church hall. Email: blessings@stjohns-rothiemurchus.co.uk St Michael Episcopal Church St Michael's Episcopal Church, Conval Street, Dufftown. Family Eucharist every Sunday at 11 am. All welcome. Tel: 01343 862808. St Margaret of Scotland, Episcopal Church High Street, Aberlour, AB38 9QD. Sundays 10am: Eucharist. Tel: 01340 881764. Website: www.stmargaretsaberlour.co.uk If you are a member of a church not listed here, please email us with details and we may print them in future issues.

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Strathspey

USEFUL INFORMATION Local Holidays St. Andrews Day Christmas Day Boxing Day New Year’s Day Scottish Bank Holiday Burns Night Shrove Tuesday Mother’s Day

Fri 30th Nov 2012 Tues 25th Dec 2012 Wed 26th Dec 2012 Tues 1st Jan 2013 Wed 2nd Jan 2013 Fri 25th Jan 2013 Tues 12th Feb 2013 Sun 10th Mar 2013

Good Friday British Summertime Begins Easter Monday Early May Bank Holiday Spring Bank Holiday Father’s Day British Summertime Ends

Fri 29th Mar 2013 Sun 31st Mar 2013 Mon 1st Apr 2013 Mon 6th May 2013 Mon 27th May 2013 Sun 16th Jun 2013 Sun 27th Oct 2013

School Term Dates MORAY COUNCIL SCHOOLS Winter Term Ends Fri 21st Dec 2012 Spring Term Starts Mon 7th Jan 2013 Elgin Academy & Feeders Thurs 14th Feb 2013 Elgin High & Feeders Thurs 14th Feb 2013 Forres Academy & Feeders Thurs 14th Feb 2013 Mid-term Holiday Fri 15th Feb 2013 Mid-term Holiday Mon 18th Feb 2013 Spring Term Ends Thurs 28th Mar 2013

HIGHLAND COUNCIL SCHOOLS Winter Term Ends Thurs 20th Dec 2012 Spring Term Starts Mon 7th Jan 2013 Mid-term Break Mon 11th - Fri 15th Feb 2013 Spring Term Ends Thurs 28th Mar 2013 Good Friday Holiday Fri 29th Mar 2013 Easter Monday Mon 1st Apr 2013 Summer Term Starts Mon 15th Apr 2013 May Day Holiday Mon 6th May 2013

Useful Telephone Numbers Aviemore Local Police. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 810222 Regional Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01463 715555 Aviemore Citizens Advice Bureau . . . . . . . 01479 810919 Aviemore Registrar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 810694 Aviemore Social Work Services . . . . . . . . 01479 810251 Aviemore Tourist Information. . . . . . . . . . . 01479 810363 National Rail Enquires. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08457 484950 Aberlour Post Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .01340 871201 Aviemore Post Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 811056 Dufftown Post Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 820244 Aviemore Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 811113 Badenoch Library & Learning Centre . . . . 01540 661596 Aberlour Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 871693 Dufftown Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .01340 820272 Grantown Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 873175 DOCTORS Aberlour Heath Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 871210 Aviemore Medical Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 810258 Blair Atholl Doctor's Surgery . . . . . . . . . . . 01796 472558 Dufftown Heath Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 820888 Fleming Hospital – Aberlour . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 871464 Gergask Surgery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01528 544225 Glenlivet Medical Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01807 590273 SpotLight on Strathspey

Grantown-on-Spey Medical Practice. . . . . 01479 872484 Kingussie Medical Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . 01540 661233 Out-of-hours emergency NHS 24. . . . . . . 08454 242424 Raigmore Hospital Inverness . . . . . . . . . . 01463 704000 St. Vincent’s Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01540 661219 Stephen Cottage Hospital – Dufftown . . . . 01340 820215 Strathdon Medical Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01975 651209 The Surgery (Crathie). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .01339 741202 Tomintoul Medical Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01807 580219 PHARMACIES Aberlour Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 871279 Aviemore Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 810259 Clark Munro Ltd (Grantown) . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 873711 Davidsons Chemists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01339 755409 Lloyds Pharmacy (Grantown) . . . . . . . . . . 01479 872006 Rothes Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 831233 Other useful numbers including vets, schools, dentists, and village halls are rotated on a regular basis and will appear in subsequent issues. If you have any suggestions for additional numbers, please contact us and we may include them in the magazine.

tel: 01309 690063

December 2012 - page 7

COMMUNITY COUNCIL NEWS ExTRACTS FROM THE MINuTES OF THE MEETING OF 13TH SEPTEMBER 2012 OF AvIEMORE AND vICINITy COMMuNITy COuNCIL Present: John Grierson, Alistair Dargie, Ray Sefton, Lorna McGibbon, Audrey MacKenzie, Ron Whyte, Mark Allan, Yvonne Birnie, Karen Lawrie, Kate Cameron, Cllr Bill Lobban, Kirsty Bruce (minuter), Tom Ramage (press) In Attendance: Ian Malcolm Apologies: Willie McKenna (CPNA)

6. AOCB a). PLANNING: John Grierson summarised the procedure AVCC had adopted in dealing with planning applications. It was agreed that John Grierson, Mark Allan and Ray Sefton would look at planning applications and decide which applications should be brought before AVCC for discussion. Proposed by Ron Whyte and seconded by Yvonne Birnie. b). PLANNING: COUNTRY PARK: John Grierson advised that the Country Park had been recommended for approval and following that, details of the park would be displayed within the Aviemore Library from Wednesday, 26th September and that he, along with Cllr Bill Lobban and Liz Henderson, would be available to answer any questions. John Grierson proposed that £2,000 be red-circled as “money in kind” funds to assist with funding applications for the project. Proposed by John Grierson and seconded by Alistair Dargie. c). COMMUNITY CAFE: Ron Whyte advised that the Community Café which runs from the St. Andrews Church Hall every Wednesday, have decided to host and provide Christmas lunch to those members of our community who would otherwise be alone on Christmas Day. A donation of £200 towards the cost of providing Christmas lunches was agreed. Proposed by Audrey MacKenzie and seconded by Karen Lawrie. d). CHARGES AT NEW COMMUNITY CENTRE: Ron Whyte advised AVCC that charges at the new community centre were extremely prohibitive and would stop many community groups being able to use the facility. He gave for an example “Messy Church”, which hosts a free fun afternoon followed by a meal for 90 to 120. Aviemore primary school aged children and that the

page 8 - December 2012

group had been quoted a price of £300 and that was with a discount. He stated that Messy Church had been able to hire the use of the Cairngorm Shining Stars Nursery for £14 per hour. John Grierson also added that he had enquired about using the new facility to hold AVCC meetings, however, the cost of a meeting room was £36 as opposed to £25 for St. Andrews Church Hall. It was proposed by John Grierson that AVCC continue to meet at St. Andrews, seconded by Alistair Dargie. e). ATC HALL: Ron Whyte advised AVCC that land for the ATC Hall had been secured for the next 75-years at the cost of £1. He also advised that the funding to build the new hall was in place and that all that was now required was the planning permission. He extended his thanks on behalf of ATC to John Grierson, Bill Lobban and AVCC for all their support with this project. f). COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD: John Grierson advised that the Tourist Office were no longer able to be key holders for the community notice board. It was remitted to Ray Sefton to collect the key and make new arrangements for use of the community notice board. g). GATEWAY TO AVIEMORE: Audrey MacKenzie commented on the south entrance to Aviemore and felt it was important that this should be an attractive and tidy gateway to Aviemore. Remitted to John Grierson to speak to Alistair Grant and Simon Jackson of MAHR. h). OLD BRIDGE INN: Audrey Mackenzie commented on the unsightly gas canisters at the old bridge, which she felt should be screened away and that there was still no “no vehicle access” sign at the underpass into the village. Remitted to John Grierson to contact those responsible. i). OLD SEWER WORKS AT DALFABER: Audrey MacKenzie felt that old sewer works should be concreted over and suggested making the site into a winter curling pond. Remitted to John Grierson to ask landowner to consider gifting land to the community. j). TREES AT DALFABER ROAD: Audrey MacKenzie commented on the

tel: 01309 690063

state of the trees on Dalfaber Road. Remitted to John Grierson to contact TEC services. k). AVIEMORE FLORAL DISPLAYS: Audrey MacKenzie felt that AVCC should thank those responsible for the summer floral displays. Remitted to John Grierson to write thank you letters to those concerned. l). OLYMPIC STATUE: Audrey MacKenzie stated that the Olympic Statue plaque would need to be updated. Remitted to Audrey MacKenzie to supply John Grierson with a list of names and a quotation for updating the plaque. m). CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE: Audrey MacKenzie stated that she no longer wished to organise the Christmas Carol Service. Bill Lobban thanked Audrey for all the years that she had put together a great event. After discussion it was remitted to Ray Sefton, Kate Cameron and Alistair Dargie to liase with Audrey and plan this year’s Christmas Carol Service. n). REMEMBERANCE SUNDAY WREATH: It was remitted to Ray Sefton to organise remembrance Sunday wreath. o). BOUNDARIES COMMISSION: Cllr Bill Lobban advised that boundaries commission have now decided not to split Badenoch and Strathspey and that they would remain within the Inverness boundary. He also said that Skye would be added onto the Inverness boundary. p). ASSOCIATION OF CAIRNGORM COMMUNITY COUNCILS: Ian Malcolm stated that it was really pleasing to have a full community council. He also explained his role on the Association of Cairngorm Community Councils and asked that no change be made at the moment. John Grierson proposed that Ian Malcolm remain AVCC’s representative on ACCC and this was seconded by Ray Sefton. q). FUTURESCAPES PROJECT: John Grierson said that Catherine Vis-Christie of RSPB has asked to speak to the community council about the Futurescapes Project. She will attend the next meeting on Thursday, 11th October. John Grierson intimated that the meeting would start at 17:15 to accommodate the presentation.

SpotLight on Strathspey

PARLIAMENT BLOG & TIDE TIMES

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Parliament Blog

Just recently I had an opportunity to hear what some of our young people in Inverness think about the issues facing the highlands today. Europe, the economy and fuel prices were all high on the list of priorities for the senior pupils, at the newly refurbished Inverness Royal Academy, when I was invited along for a question and answer session. But, for many of them, the issue at the forefront of their minds seemed to be the one on which they may have their first chance to vote: independence. Now that we all know when the referendum is likely to be, they were keen to find out when they will know the facts behind both camps’ arguments, what the implications might be for the highlands and why I have taken the pro-UK stance they had read about in the papers. Facing their questions, I felt confident that, with young people so concerned about the area’s future and aware of the issues the country is facing, the future of the highlands is in safe hands.

Broadband. Ten years ago hardly anyone would have known what it was, now it has become an essential for business. The Highlands and Islands have been chosen as the first place in Scotland to have a massive investment to upgrade the services. The investment will exceed a hundred million - and will therefore do great things. But even at that, there will still be , in rural areas in particular, non spots where there is no access, or areas where the speed remains frustratingly slow. This matter was discussed at a meeting in Elgin of the Convention of the Highlands and Islands, where John Swinney and myself, as the Finance secretary and Enterprise Minister, met with representatives of the Moray, Highland and Islands councils and others. The importance of swift broadband connections is now critical to a great many businesses. In tourism, for example, so many of the bookings of accommodation are made online. This work is being rolled out and it will take a bit of time - but please do contact me if you have a particular problem with lack of access or slow speed. Recently, playing with my four year old daughter in the garden, a low autumnal sun shone across the garden, from over tops of the Cairngorm peaks. I therefore donned my sun glasses when playing with Natasha. This led her to observe: "Daddy - you look like a rock star!" This accusation has never been levelled at me before. But then, I thought that since she has only seen the likes of Mick Jagger, Rod Stewart and so on, on telly, she probably thinks that you have to be pretty ancient to be a rock star!

Danny Alexander MP

Fergus Ewing MSP

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Thursday 6-7pm Ceilidh in the Park (bilingual) 7-9pm Classics for Pleasure 9-10pm Speysound Scottish Friday 5-7pm Drive Time 7-8pm Alison’s Eighties 8-9pm Clubbin’ it

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Tel: 01479 821184 or 01479 861256 Mobile: 07855 909314

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Sunday 8-10am Grant Gallagher Breakfast Show

Kirsty Wright

December

bag) 15Kg ba g)

Saturday 8-10am Malky & Jason in the Morning 8-9pm Phil Steedman

Kinloss HIVE and Glenmore Lodge, Aviemore www.kirstywrightmassage.com Member of SMA (Level 4)

tel: 01309 690063

December 2012 - page 9

events

ELGIN CITY CENTRE at CHRISTMAS

One night only special offers and discounts...

Wednesday 5th December

A special Yuletide Late Night Shopping Event takes place on Wednesday 5th December from 5pm – 8pm across South Street, Commerce Street, Batchen Street and Thunderton Place. This special event will see many independent, specialist businesses opening up their doors for one night only. Shoppers can find a range of unique gifts, crafts and foods with many offering one night only special offers and discounts. Shop in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and enjoy free refreshments and nibbles. Keep warm with hot refreshments and snacks from Miriam’s Tea Room and why not finish the night with a mouth -watering well deserved meal and take advantage of the money off discounts from the Akash Indian or Lido French Restaurant.

articipating Businesses include (more to be confirmed): South Street - Xanadu, Sound and Vision, Chuck McCall, Gordon and MacPhail, British Red Cross, Tommy’s Hair, Moravian Digital Press , Bee Crafty , Elgin Furniture and Carpet Centre, Miriams Tea Room,

Junners (Toymaster), Lido (French Cuisine), Akash (Indian), McCalls, Linda’s Wools, Carlton Leisure (Bingo). Start to Knit (Commerce Street), Elgin Gallery and Coffee Shop (Thunderton Place). Why not make your Christmas Shopping a guaranteed enjoyable experience and come along to the special late night evening in Elgin and also take advantage of the reduced City Centre parking charges.

aturday 15th December - Last Minute Christmas Market A visit to Elgin is a must for last minute Christmas gifts. Come along to the street market and visit the range of top quality shops for special gifts, crafts, food and drink. Santa will also be there in a very unusual ‘Grotto’ ‘not to be missed. To make the day extra Christmassy why not stop a while and listen to the carol singers. FOR A TRULY UNIQUE AND SPECIAL CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EXPERIENCE THIS YEAR A VISIT TO ELGIN IS A MUST. For ongoing developments please go to www.elginbid.co.uk or www.facebook.com/elginbid

Elgin City Centre Christmas Specials Yuletide Late Night Shopping Event Wednesday 5th December For that special Christmas treat, visit your local independent businesses in South Street, Batchen Street, Thunderton Place & Commerce Street, offering a wide range of unique & unusual gifts, crafts, food & drink. Opening late until 8.00pm with special offers, nibbles, mulled wine and great deals on food and drink come along and join in the festive fun.

Christmas Market ² Elgin City Centre Saturday 15th December 2012 For a wide range of crafts, gifts, food and drink why not make the Elgin Christmas Market and the great range of Local Shops, the place to visit. 'RQ·W PLVV 6DQWD·V F Flying Grotto on the Plainstones

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on 07840 804207

Please send Us details Of YOUr events Website: www.spotlighton.co.uk email: michelle@spotlighton.co.uk telephone: 01309 690063

pub quiz 9pm - 11pm. the woodshed, hilton coylumbridge, aviemore. ÂŁ1 pp. 01479 810661.

30 friday

new frontiers illustrated talk 7.30pm. boat of garten community hall. an odyssey in professional photography by peter cairns. 01479 831506.

kingussie auction 7pm. in aid of the christmas lights. contact gillies bar, duke of gordon hotel, kingussie. â&#x20AC;&#x153;representations of st andrewâ&#x20AC;? (moray society lecture series) 7.30pm.elgin museum hall. 01343 543675. curator@elginmuseum.org.uk moray rock garden club 7.30pm. new elgin hall annexe. new members required for exciting projects. contact hazel robson: 01340 871227. scottish music with ronnie douglas 8.30pm. contact duke of gordon hotel in kingussie: 01540 661302. st andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s night live music 9.30pm. cairngorm hotel, aviemore. 01479 810233.

26 monday - 30 friday

30 friday - 2 december

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Onâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; listings deadline for January issue is friday 30th november. Please note: information supplied to spotlight is received in good faith, therefore, we may not be responsible for errors in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Onâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; section.

NOVEMBER 26 monday

cairngorm christmas market 10.30am. ptarmigan bar, cairngorm mountain. 01479 821261. info@cairngormmountain.org

floral arts exhibition talla nan ros, kingussie. www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

27 tuesday

DECEMBER 1 saturday

scottish music with ronnie douglas 8.30pm. contact duke of gordon hotel in kingussie: 01540 661302.

28 wednesday creag meagaidh national nature reserve nature walk 10am - 12noon. refreshments after. 07961 632685. wayne.fitter@snh.gov.uk

29 thursday carrbridge & vicinity community council meeting 7.30pm. at the village hall. all welcome. laggan heritage talk with ewan cameron: â&#x20AC;&#x153;the history of dalwhinnie distilleryâ&#x20AC;? 7.30pm. laggan village hall. live music with nigel dyson 8.30pm. duke of gordon hotel, kingussie. 01540 661302 info@dukeofgordonhotel.co.uk SpotLight on Strathspey

christmas art fair the iona gallery. www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html cairngorms farmers market 10.30am - 3.30pm. inverallan church hall, grantown-on-spey. free event. organisercfma@aol.com grantown primary school christmas fayre 11am 2pm. free entry. santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grotto, stalls, crafts, refreshments, homebaking, raffle @ 1.30pm. christmas bingo 7pm - 10pm. craigellachie village hall, john street, craigellachie. in aid of the village hall funds. www.craigellachie.org.uk bisongrass & the cundees @ flanagans bar, elgin. 8pm. a night of punk & sludge metal. www.face-

tel: 01309 690063

December 2012 - page 11

book.com/thesyndicate2008

1 saturday - 2 sunday newtonmore & district floral art club: victorian christmas 10am - 5pm. talla nan ross, kingussie. soups, mince pies, tea and coffee. free entry. christmas craft market the iona gallery. www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

& !

1 saturday - 9 sunday

christmas exhibition and sale (speyside artisans) 10am - 4pm. glenfiddich distillery’s gallery, dufftown. 01542 886311. $

1 saturday - 22 saturday

santaland at castle stuart inverness. 07814 476901. grace@castlestuart.com www.castlestuart.com

! $ "$ ! $ "$ #

2 sunday kingussie’s “light up a life” (highland hospice) contact britta harder: 01463 227906 b.harder@highlandhospice.org.uk moray 5k winter challenge 11am. cooper park, elgin. www.morayroadrunners.com sunday lunch in the ballroom 12pm. blair castle, blair atholl. 2 course: £15, 3 course: £19.50. 01796 481207. bookings@blair-castle.co.uk christmas shopping day 12pm. throughtout kingussie. pony rides, mulled wine, santa’s grotto pipe band, xmas lights switch on etc.

3 monday “dr strangelove” 7.45pm. ruthven road picturehouse, the silverfjord hotel, kingussie. www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

4 tuesday newtonmore’s “light up a life” (highland hospice) contact britta harder: 01463 227906 b.harder@highlandhospice.org.uk moray council spending priorities community workshop (speyside area) 7pm - 9pm. fleming hall, aberlour. booking essential. 01343 563996.

5 wednesday creag meagaidh national nature reserve nature walk 10am - 12noon. refreshments after. 07961 632685. wayne.fitter@snh.gov.uk nadfas fine art lecture: “three wise men, gold, frankincense & myrrh: the traditions of the magi” 11am. eight acres hotel, elgin. visitors welcome. festive fun (inverallan church guild) 2pm. inverallan church hall, grantown-on-spey. a warm welcome with tea and biscuits. alasdair fraser and natalie haas 7.30pm, universal hall, findhorn. 01309 690311. www.findhorn.org

6 thursday health walk 11am. old bridge, carrbridge (weatherpermitting during winter). refreshments afterwards. contact margaret carnegie: 01479 841749.

page 12 - December 2012

8 saturday “handmade in scotland” christmas craft fair 10am - 2pm. at lossiemouth high school. free entry. find us on facebook. email: sales@islaandesme.com ian rankin - the a9 tour 12pm. waterstone’s, eastgate centre, inverness. signing copies of the new rebus installment. 01463 233500. chris ramsey - feeling lucky @ ironworks 7pm. 0871 7894173. www.ironworksvenue.com dreich house 4pm. universal hall, findhorn. 01309 690311. www.findhorn.org

8 saturday - 9 sunday keith & dufftown railway: santa special 01340 821181. www.keith-dufftown-railway.co.uk santa’s grotto 11am. blair castle, blair atholl. 01796 481207. bookings@blair-castle.co.uk

9 sunday sunday lunch in the ballroom 12pm. blair castle, blair atholl. 2 course: £15, 3 course: £19.50. 01796 481207. bookings@blair-castle.co.uk cuillin sound concert 4.30pm - 6.45pm. st kentigern’s church, braemar road, ballater. 013397 56260. janenagus31@hotmail.co.uk christmas choral and carol concert 6.30pm. blair castle, blair atholl. 01796 481207. bookings@blair-castle.co.uk strathspey railway santa specials special fares and timetables apply. 01479 810725. gill.kelly@strathspeyrailway.co.uk

9 sunday - 10 monday festive party nights 7pm. cairngorm hotel, aviemore. £28 pp. 01479 810233. reception@cairngorm.com

10 monday aberlour senior citizen’s christmas party 5.30pm for 6pm. fleming hall, aberlour.

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Strathspey

“in the footsteps of tilman: crossing the path of a great adventurer” 7.30pm. boat of garten comm.hall. 01479 831506. lorraine@maxmanagement.co.uk “frost/nixon” 7.45pm. ruthven road picturehouse, the silverfjord hotel, kingussie. www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

12 wednesday “bulbs of asia minor” (highland rock garden club) 7.30pm. nairn community centre. contact john owen: 01320 366246.

13 thursday health walk 11am. old bridge, carrbridge (weatherpermitting during winter). refreshments afterwards. contact margaret carnegie: 01479 841749.

15 saturday aviemore ceilidh dance with shelia peters and jim 8pm. aviemore primary school & community hall. ph22 1sy. tickets £5.

15 saturday - 16 sunday keith & dufftown railway: santa special come and meet santa in his grotto on the train. 01340 821181. www.keith-dufftown-railway.co.uk santa’s grotto 11am. blair castle, blair atholl. 01796 481207. bookings@blair-castle.co.uk

16 sunday sunday lunch in the ballroom 12pm. blair castle, blair atholl. 2 course: £15, 3 course: £19.50. 01796 481207. bookings@blair-castle.co.uk a folky little christmas 7pm. £10/£5 u18s. contact talla nan ros, kingussie. strathspey railway santa specials special fares and timetables apply. 01479 810725. gill.kelly@strathspeyrailway.co.uk

16 sunday - 17 monday festive party nights 7pm. cairngorm hotel, aviemore. £28 pp. 01479 810233. reception@cairngorm.com

17 monday “moonrise kingdom” 7.45pm. ruthven road picturehouse, the silverfjord hotel, kingussie. www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

20 thursday health walk 11am. old bridge, carrbridge (weather-permitting during winter). refreshments afterwards. contact margaret carnegie: 01479 841749.

21 friday winter solstice @ kincraig 2.30pm - 4.30pm. booking essential. adults £3, concs £2. duncan: duncan.macdonald@highland.gov.uk one night of queen @ ironworks 7.30pm. 0871 7894173. www.ironworksvenue.com

SpotLight on Strathspey

Where’s Santa?

Santa’s Grotto At Baxters Highland Village 11am - 4pm. £5 includes a gift. tel: 01343 820666 Breakfast With Santa At

Village,

Baxters Highland

Fochabers. Delight kids with the chance to enjoy breakfast with Santa himself. £9.99, pre-booking required. tel: 01343 820666

Reindeer Day at Brodie Countryfare on Sunday 23rd December. Visit Santa in his grotto 11am-2pm. Meet Santa’s reindeer in their pen 1pm-3.30pm. Wave Santa off on his farewell parade 3.30pm. Enjoy our special winter bbq. Children’s teacups ride. Dr Gray’s Wave Radio and much, much more. Shop for last minute food, gift ideas, toys and stocking fillers. tel: 01309 641555. www.brodiecountryfare.com

Santaland at Castle Stuart. Available everyday from Saturday 1st Dec to Sat 22nd Dec. Choose and book your time for private parties (min. 10 people in the group / 1 hour exclusively in the entire castle). The castle will not be open to the public. Hot dogs, hot chocolate, ice cream and cookies, crafts with Mrs Claus, and a wee gift with Santa in the drawing room. Child £10 pp. adult £10 pp. babies under 6 months free. To book your date and time, contact: Twinkletoes, Head Elf: 07814 476901 or email twinkletoes@castlestuart.com visit www.castlestuart.com Santa’s Grotto at Christies - Every Sat & Sun, 12pm 3pm. All children primary school and under will receive a free gift. Donations gratefully received and all monies collected will be sent to Childrens’ Hospice Association Scotland. tel: 01343 820 362

Santa’s Grotto at Holm Mills Shopping Village in inverness. £4 per child includes toy. 1st Dec 11am-4pm, 2nd Dec 12noon-4pm, 8th Dec 11am-4pm, 9th Dec 12noon-4pm, 15th Dec 11am-4pm, 16th Dec 12noon-4pm, 22nd Dec 11am-4pm, 23rd Dec 12noon-4pm and 24th Dec 12noon-4pm. Breakfast with Santa is £7 and includes a three item breakfast with juice & a toy. 9am-12noon on the 22nd and 24th Dec. 10am on the 23rd. booking is essential.

Santa's Grotto at Howdens Garden Centre at Stoneyfield, Inverness. Opening hours: Sat and Sun 11am1.30pm and 2pm-4pm. £5 per child includes a gift from Santa. tel: 01463 711134.

Santa’s Grotto at Mackenzie & Cruickshank every Sat and Sun in Dec up to Christmas 1pm-3.30pm. £5 entry (including toy and photo and donation to Forres Christmas lights). 1 West Road, Forres, IV36 2GW. t: 01309 696940.

Simpsons Garden Centre in

Santa is at

Inverness on Dec 1-2, 8-9, 15-16 and 22-24. £7. Gift from Santa and ten minutes. tel: 01463 250200.

tel: 01309 690063

December 2012 - page 13

22 saturday

29 saturday

aviemore santa run 11.45am. in aid of disability snowsport uk. 01479 861 272. fundraising@disabilitysnowsport.org.uk

skimo scotland races 3pm. lecht 2090, tomintoul. entry closing date: 23/12. info@skimoscotland.co.uk www.skimoscotland.co.uk

22 saturday - 23 sunday keith & dufftown railway: santa special come and meet santa in his grotto on the train. 01340 821181. www.keith-dufftown-railway.co.uk santa’s grotto 11am. blair castle, blair atholl. 01796 481207. bookings@blair-castle.co.uk

22 saturday - 24 monday strathspey railway santa specials special fares and timetables apply. 01479 810725. gill.kelly@strathspeyrailway.co.uk

23 sunday sunday lunch in the ballroom 12pm. blair castle, blair atholl. 2 course: £15, 3 course: £19.50. 01796 481207. bookings@blair-castle.co.uk festive party nights 7pm. cairngorm hotel, aviemore. £28 pp. 01479 810233. reception@cairngorm.com “joyeux noel” 7.45pm. ruthven road picturehouse, the silverfjord hotel, kingussie. www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

24 monday torchlight procession @ aviemore 5pm - 9pm. procession through the streets of aviemore. 01479 810363. www.aviemore.co.uk fireworks @ aviemore 6.30pm. contact cairngorm hotel: 01479 810233. reception@cairngorm.com kingussie christmas parade 7pm. mince pies, mulled wine, carol singing and pipe band. contact: the courthouse, kingussie. christmas eve in kingussie high street santa and reindeer, mulled wine, mince pies, carols etc. www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

25 tuesday christmas day lunch @ aviemore 12.30pm. cairngorm hotel. 01479 810233. reception@cairngorm.com

26 wednesday creag meagaidh national nature reserve nature walk 10am - 12noon. refreshments afterwards. 07961632685. wayne.fitter@snh.gov.uk

27 thursday health walk 11am. old bridge, carrbridge (weatherpermitting during winter). refreshments afterwards. contact margaret carnegie: 01479 841749. cairngorm ceilidh trailers 8pm. contact: talla nan ros, kingussie.

28 saturday - 31 monday bruadar whisky trail 10am. 01796 481207. bookings@blair-castle.co.uk

page 14 - December 2012

31 monday scottish country dancing @ blair castle 11.30am or 1.30pm. free with castle entry. 01796 481207. bookings@blair-castle.co.uk hogmanay ceilidh @ boat of garten 8pm - 1am. contact the community hall: 01479 831506. lormac18@gmail.com hogmanay @ knockando 8pm - 1am. margach hall, knockando. families welcome. raffle drawn on the night and music. contact charlie: 01340 810605. hogmanay @ archiestown 8pm - 1am. archiestown village hall. www.archiestown.com new year’s eve torchlight parade @ newtonmore 11.30pm. glen hotel. free event. hogmanay ceilidh @ dufftown commercial hotel hall, 4 church street. 01340 820313. hogmanay party @ dufftown at the royal british legion, balvenie street, dufftown. 01340 820425. hogmanay parade & fireworks @ kingussie 11.30pm. piped procession, fireworks, refreshments and a dram. contact silverfjord hotel, kingussie. torchlight procession @ kingussie 11.30pm. gather at the fountain by the station. www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html fireworks @ aviemore 12am. contact cairngorm hotel. 01479 810233. reception@cairngorm.com

JANUARY 2013 in brief

1 tuesday

veterans shinty match kingussie football field. www.kingussie.co.uk/whats-on.html

9 wednesday “uncle george” - a personal view of george forrest (highland rock garden club) 7.30pm. nairn community centre. john owen: 01320 366246.

19 saturday skimo scotland 4pm. glenshee ski centre, braemar. info@skimoscotland.co.uk www.skimoscotland.co.uk

26 saturday burns night supper at glenrinnes 7pm - 11.30pm. glenrinnes community centre.

26 saturday - 27 sunday aviemore sled dog rally 9am. 07990 848898 / 0871 277 6783. www.siberianhuskyclub.com

31 thursday carrbridge & vicinity community council meeting 7.30pm. at the village hall. all welcome.

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Strathspey

What’s On Events •Hogmanay celebrations •Winter festival celebrations •Burns supper events •Coffee mornings •Concerts •Talks •Exhibitions •Fairs •and so on... If you would like to see your event in the January issue, log on to: www.spotlighton.co.uk

Deadline: Friday 30th November

able Avail ay from d y r eve t 1st Sa mber Deceto 2nd Sat 2mber e Dec

BOOK NOW!

CHRISTMAS OFFER 10% DISCOUNT on Tooth Whitening OPEN TO ALL Gift Vouchers Available

CHOOSE & BOOK YOUR TIME FOR PRIVATE PARTIES (minimum 10 people in the group/ I hour exclusively in the entire Castle)

Smaller groups can now check availability and book times available for sharing the castle with other families. The Castle will not be open to the general public. You need to book a time and date for the electronic gates to open at your command! Hot Dogs, Hot Chocolate, Ice Cream & Cookies, Crafts with Mrs Claus, Wee Gift with Santa in the Drawing Room. Child £10.00 per person, Adult £10.00 per person Babies under 6 months FREE Please note there is no wheelchair access at the Castle, it is a 17th century tower house with a steep stone staircase.

To Book your Date and Time Contact: Twinkletoes, Head Elf

Tel 07814 476 901 i > ÊÌÜ iÌ iÃJV>ÃÌ iÃÌÕ>ÀÌ°V ÊUÊÜÜÜ°V>ÃÌ iÃÌÕ>ÀÌ°V

AWARDS 2012

FINALISTS Speyside Dental Clinic 138 High Street, Aberlour, Banffshire AB38 9NX 01340 871 738 info@speysidedental.com www.speysidedental.com

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travel

Dreaming of... ...Dubai

With its guaranteed sun, excellent hotels, golden beaches, fantastic shopping and only seven hours flying time direct from Glasgow, Dubai has become one of the most popular, all year round, holiday destinations. With dwindling oil reserves, the United Arab Emirate set out to replace its oil incomes with revenue from tourism, and it appears to have succeeded.

Burj Al Arab, Dubai

The oldest part of the City is centred around the Dubai Creek with its many souks and mosques, or you can take a visit to the Dubai Museum which is housed in Al Fahidi Fort. Built in 1787, it is the oldest existing building in Dubai. Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fascinating museum shows the history and development of Dubai to the present day. With approximately 68 shopping malls, Dubai is a shoppers paradise. The two biggest being the Dubai Mall and the Mall of the Emirates, which offers everything from high street and designer brands to ice rinks and cinemas, along with every type of cuisine imaginable and even the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest suspended aquarium can be found in the Dubai Mall. Dubai has something to offer everyone in the family, including skiing in the desert at the fabulous Ski Dubai indoor arena. Kids will love Wild Wadi and Aqua adventures water parks. For the more adventurous, why not try the 4x4 desert safari or take the elevator to the observation deck on the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tallest building, where you will have a spectacular 360 degree view of the city, desert and ocean from 830 metres above. To enjoy the best beachfront facilities, beach lovers opt to stay in one of the many luxurious hotels on Jumeirah Beach, the most iconic hotel being the Burj Al Arab, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only 7 star hotel. Dubai offers such a vast range of hotels choices and experiences, it would make an ideal destination for a two centre holiday, combining both beach and city life and direct flights from Scotland make it very easy to get to.

Information kindly supplied by Desert 4 x 4

2-6 South Street, Elgin 01343 548844 Â&#x2021; +LJK Street, FRUUHV

CHRISTMAS HO, HO, HOLIDAYS Winter Wonderland

Santa's On His Way

Experience all the magic of Lapland in a single day huskies, reindeer, snowmobiles and an enchanting family meeting with Father Christmas himself - and still be back home in time for bed. 22nd Dec departing Glasgow .......................£1696

Search for Santa in his magical homeland. A two night short break with full board accommodation, include husky rides, reindeers rides snow mobile safaris and all kinds of fun for your family in the snow. 7th Dec departing Edinburgh for 2 Nights...................£2947

Switzerland Christmas Markets Chateau d'Oex

Jersey Christmas Markets Hotel Mayfair

12th Dec departing Edinburgh for 3 nights B&B.........£379pp

8th Dec departing Glasgow for 3 Nights................£379pp

(2 Adults & 2 Children)

(2 adults, upgrade to HB £54)

FORRES 01309 672203

(2 Adults & 2 Children)

(based on 2 adults B&B)

beaver Travel

&ĂďƌŝĐƐ͕ tĂůů ŽǀĞƌŝŶŐƐ͕ >ŝŐŚƟŶŐ Θ >ĂŵƉƐ͕ ^ŽŌ &ƵƌŶŝƐŚŝŶŐƐ͕ hƉŚŽůƐƚĞƌĞĚ &ƵƌŶŝƚƵƌĞ ĂŶĚ ŵƵĐŚ͕ ŵƵĐŚ ŵŽƌĞ͘͘

ELGIN 01343 548844

Beaver Travel, 78 High Street, Forres

Also at: 2-6 South Street, Elgin www.beavtrav.com Beaver Travel is also a ticket agent for Eden Court Theatre, Inverness - No booking fee.

Legal Will Writers of Moray We offer a friendly professional and inexpensive service for Wills, Powers of Attorney and Estate Management.

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

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recipe

Chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Confidential Smoked haddock & pea risotto, poached egg & lemon oil Currently on our lunch menu, great lunch or supper dish, simply get the best smoked haddock you can, free range eggs, good quality rapeseed oil - the rest is easy! Serves 4

Ingredients 50g butter 4 tbsp oil 2 x large smoked haddock fillets, boned and cut into chunks 4 x large free range eggs 1 onion, finely diced 2 tbsp garlic butter 2 x cloves garlic, finely diced 400g carnaroli risotto rice 1 litre chicken stock 1 tbsp creme fraiche or mascarpone 2 tbsp grated parmesan and parmesan shavings to garnish 75g frozen peas Lemon rapeseed oil to garnish

Method For the risotto: 1. Melt the butter with oil. Add onion and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes without browning. Add rice and stir well. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring all the time. Gradually, add hot chicken stock, 250ml at a time. This should take around 12-17 minutes to cook. Set aside until needed. 2. Using a large saucepan, melt the garlic butter and add haddock. Cook for 2-3 minutes and add peas. Stir well and add risotto to the pan. Mix well and season with salt and pepper, if required. Stir in parmesan and creme fraiche. Divide risotto between four bowls. Top with soft poached egg. Garnish with parmesan shavings, lemon oil and fresh barley. Enjoy!

Kris Mckie (Chef) The Royal Hotel, Elgin. Tel: 01343 542320

The Royal Hotel E L G I N Bookings for pre-Christmas lunch and dinner now being taken. Menus available upon request. Served from VW Â° WK 'HFHPEHU Monday - Saturday /XQFK SP Â&#x2021;ÂŞ'LQQHU SP SP Sunday Roasts 12 - 2pm & 5 - 7pm

For reservations telephone 01343 542320 Station Rd, Elgin IV30 1QW Allan & Gwen McGregor

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motoring

Better Motoring this Winter

Winter is the season requiring most care and preparation if you're to stay safe and avoid a breakdown. Here's general advice from the AA for safe, trouble-free driving through the Winter. Battery and electrics Lights, heaters and wipers put high demands on the car battery and the battery will give out eventually. Avoid running electrical systems longer than necessary – turn heater fan down and heated rear window off once windows clear. Turn off electrical loads like lights, screen heaters and wipers before starting engine. Use the starter in five-second bursts if the engine doesn't start quickly, leaving time for battery to recover. Antifreeze A squealing noise as soon as the engine starts is a sign the water pump is frozen - it's the fan belt slipping on the pulley. Stop the engine immediately and allow it to thaw out. If the car begins to overheat a few miles from home it's likely that the radiator has frozen. Stop to avoid serious damage and allow the radiator to thaw. You need a 50-50 mix of antifreeze and water in the cooling system for winter.

Tyres The AA recommends at least 3mm of tread for winter motoring, and no less than 2mm. It's rare to need snow chains unless you live in an isolated area hit with heavy snow, and where the roads are not cleared. Consider changing to winter or all season tyres – these give better grip in cold wet conditions. Before you go Get up at least 10 minutes early to prepare the car. Don't drive off like a tank-commander, with a tiny hole cleared in the windscreen. Clear all windows using a scraper and de-icer. Use a cigarette lighter to warm a key for a frozen lock. Plan routes to favour major roads that are more likely to have been cleared and gritted.Put safety before punctuality when the bad weather closes in. Allow extra time and be prepared for the inevitability of being late for work due to unexpected delay. Driving in snow and ice Gentle manoeuvres are the key to safe driving - stopping distances are 10 times longer in ice and snow. Pull away in second gear to avoid wheel-spin.

Vision Keep the windscreen and other windows clear. Clear snow from the roof as well as from windows as this can fall onto the windscreen obscuring your view. Dazzle from a low winter sun can be a real problem. Improve vision by making sure that the windscreen is clean both inside and out.

Up hill - avoid having to stop part way up by waiting until it is clear of other cars. Keep a constant speed, avoid changing down on the hill. Down hill - reduce your speed before the hill, use a low gear and try to avoid using the brakes. Apply brakes gently. Release brakes and de-clutch if car skids. Automatic transmission - in slippery conditions it's best to select '2', which limits gear changes and also makes you less reliant on brakes.

Check windscreen wipers and replace if necessary. Make sure that wipers are switched off when there's risk of freezing. Top up Windscreen washer fluid and treat with a suitable additive to reduce the chance of freezing.

If you get stuck, straighten steering and clear snow from wheels. Put a sack or old rug in front of driving wheels to give tyres some grip. Once on the move again, don’t stop until you reach firmer ground.

Visibility When roads are really mucky you might need to clean lights after every journey. If you have to clear snow from the car it's important to clear it from the lights too.You must use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced.

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