SpotLight on Strathspey by david nelmes

NOVEMBER 2012

Strathspey THE

NORTH’S

FAV O U R I T E

FREE

WEE

MAG’!

# / - - 5 . ) 4 9 s 3 4 9 , % s % !4 ) . ' / 5 4 s &! 3 ( ) / . This Month Chef’s Confidential ............p16

Travel.................................p18

City of Elgin BID ...........p20-21 L

A Gift From Scotland .......p5 Xmas Specials at M&C .........p7 Study with the OU .............p11 Listen with Speysound .......p12 Moray Piano Competition ..p14 Clubs & Societies, Pastoral Letter, Church Details, Council News, Useful Numbers, Local Holidays, What’s On, Parliament Blog, Tide Times and much, much more!

E SE

E SID IN

Great Offers at The Allan Studio!

allanstudio the

ltd

Your No1 Studio For All Your Home Improvements

s +)4#(%.3 s "!4(2//-3 s "%$2//-3 s &,//2).' s s 4),%3 s &)2%3 34/6%3 s 7).$/73 s $//23 s For Your Kitchen...

was ÂŁ6495 From ÂŁ5995 inc vat

Price shown is for supply and installation with choice of 11 door types. 10 Kitchen Unit, example includes oven, hob, extractor, sink, tap. Also includes under cabinet, lighting, splashback, soft close hinges & Karndean Flooring. Based on 6.68m2

For Your Bathroom...

was ÂŁ5995 From ÂŁ4995 inc vat

Price shown is for supply and installation. Suite includes Showerbath with Bath Shower Mixer Taps, 6mm thick bath screen, all walls wetwalled, Karndean flooring, decorative ceiling panels with 3 spotlights, 1 extractor fan, illuminated mirror & chrome ladder radiator. Based on 3.34m2

BUY ANY KITCHEN OR BATHROOM and have them fitted at the same time

AND GET THE LEAST EXPENSIVE ONE HALF PRICE

BO O DE KE CE D B 20 MB EFO 12 ER R E

TIN

R FE

Y AR

FIT

For Your Wet Walls & Tiles, Wet Wall from ÂŁ75 inc vat We design, supply, install and project manage the whole process of your new kitchen, bathroom or flooring. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to worry about arranging a plumber, tiler, decorator, electrician, joiner or floorer - we have them all under one roof. So why go anywhere else for that new kitchen, bathroom or flooring? We cover everything from start to finish. www.theallanstudio.co.uk

6ISIT OUR 3HOWROOM 4ELFORD 2OAD s )NVERNESS s )6 *! s INFO THEALLANSTUDIO CO UK

4 # !PPLY

info@ forrestreeservices.com

Domestic and Commercial STUMP REMOVAL ALSO AVAILABLE!

November November

Dog FERRARI BIRD ANIMAL A NIMAL FOOD and OOD FOOD a n d HORSE HORSE F (from (from £9.49 per (25kg Peanuts £39.75 wild Bird seed £14.50)

FEEDS FEEDS

bag) 15Kg ba g)

TREE SURGERY AND FIREWOOD Fully insured and qualified

www. forrestreeservices.com

01309 675834

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

TEL: 0 01309 1309 676353 676353

FREE y er Deliv

our wide range of services include:

! !!

Planning & building warrant applications Bespoke housing designs Extensions, conversions & renovations With over 25 years experience in architectural design we provide a professional service from initial contact through to the completion of project.

/i i« i\Êä£Î{ÎÊn£äxÈÇÊUÊ L i\ÊäÇÇnnÊnnÇänÈ i > À>ÞV >ÃÌÚ>VJ Ûi°V °Õ ÜÜÜ° À>Þ V >ÃÌ >ÀV ÌiVÌÕÀ> V ÃÕ Ì> ÌÃ°V °Õ

Professional AUTUMN

L.A.W.N C.A.R.E SERVICES

WINTER

Now is the time to have your lawns expertly prepared for Winter and the new growing season. Hollow Tine Aeration and Scarifying are best done at this time of year - From Autumn onwards. Hollow Tine Aeration Removes cores to de-compact the soil (after possibly heavy traffic through Summer!!) Tining also helps allow water, nutrients and oxygen to reach the root zone of the grass plant more easily. Scarifying Will thin out and remove much of the thatch and moss which has built up over the season (which has been extremely wet this year) giving room for new shoots to grow and spread in the Spring. We clean up and remove all the waste after scarifying or hollow tining your lawn Autumn Treatment Programme Our renowned Autumn/Winter treatment formula slowly releases nutrients through the winter feeding and strengthening roots, maintaining the lawn's deep green presentation with our moss controller, if required. For your no-obligation survey, analysis & quotation, please contact the experts on: SEPA Registered NPTC Qualified

01343 811114 A local business built on trust reliability & quality of service website under construction at www.highlandgreenlawncare.co.uk

CLUBS & SOCIETIES ALVIE STABLES Small friendly stables offering all abilities the chance to ride. Novice - experienced riders. Mini treks for 20 mins or 1 hour trails. Children's riding lessons are also available. For more info call 07831 495397 or email info@alvie-estate.co.uk

Ally on 01479 81064, Norrie on 07974 033036 or email : norriemacleodabc@gmail.com.

PILATES Thursdays 10:30am - 11:30am, Boat of Garten Community Hall. Call 01479 831213 for details.

AVIEMORE & DISTRICT YOUNG CURLERS Call Mr I. Hay on 01479 870431

WALKMORAY - ROTHES Meets Thursdays, 10am at at the Library, Seafield Square. For details contact The Health Point on 01343 567842 ABERLOUR PARISH WOMENS GUILD Meetings are held monthly, on Thursday evenings at 7.15pm, Aberlour Parish Church. Call Nan Thomson on 01340 871325 AVIEMORE BOWLING CLUB Club nights on Mon & Wed at 6:45pm, play at 7pm. Outdoor May - Sept, Indoor short mat Oct - April. Dalfaber Drive, Aviemore. Bingo every Thurs at 7pm. Call

)1 #! )1 6* ! 5* ! .,#( ,, *+) #& .&& * !

4 4 4 4 4 4

AVIEMORE JUNIOR YOUTH CLUB Tuesdays, 6:30 - 8:30pm. Call Vicki Gosling on 01479 810 071 for more information.

BADENOCH GARDENING CLUB Meet on the 3rd or 4th Wed each month in Newtonmore Village Hall (Lesser Hall) starting at 7.30 pm. Annual membership £10.00. Meetings free for members. £2.50 for visitors, who are most welcome. BIRD WATCHING AND WILDLIFE CLUB All special events, suggested itineraries & programmes are subject to availability and liable to change without notice. BWWC Ltd, 25 The Square, Grantownon-Spey, PH26 3HF. Call 0800 043 8585 or email: booking@ bwwc.co.uk BRITISH LEGION (NEWTONMORE) Open to all ex-service personnel & 1st generation families. Social meetings throughout the year and an Annual Remembrance Day Service in the village. Call Robin Cattanach on 01540 673640. BROWNIES (NEWTONMORE) Meet Thursdays from 6pm to 7.30pm in St Brides Church Hall. Contact Glenda Leslie on 01540 673819.

#(- + .+( # )'+ # " )) ,# +' #(&),, && ' - +# & 0#-"#( -" *)- #!"' ! 3#( , #, ,. $ - -) )+' & )*2+#!"- + ,-+# -#)(, ( -" + )+ -" + *+) . -#)( ) (2 &#,#(!, #-)+# & / +-#, + +-0)+% )+ (2 )-" + )(- (- 0#-").- -" *. &#," +7, *+#)+ )(, (- 0#&& )(,# + + " ) )*2+#!"-

page 4 - November 2012

CAIRNGORM BRIDGE CLUB Meets most Tuesday evenings, arrive by 6:45pm for a prompt start, at St John's Church Hall, Rothiemurchus (opposite tennis courts, on the ski road). All welcome. It would be helpful if visitors could contact Ian on 01479 821075 to let us know. CAIRNGORM RUNNERS Monday and Wednesday club nights we meet at, The Fun House rear car park (next to

Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel on the Ski Road) Email enquiries@ cairngormrunners.org or visit www.cairngormrunners.org CARRBRIDGE OUTDOOR CURLING CLUB Contact: Patrick Blease on 01479 841359 DUFFTOWN BOWLING CLUB Meets Monday & Thursday Evenings at the Memorial Hall. Call Mr D Henderson on 01340 820948 for more details. EDINVILLIE BADMINTON CLUB Meets Thursdays at the Hall. There is a junior section which starts at 6pm until 7.30pm. Junior coaching for attendees only from 7.30pm - 8pm. ALL juniors MUST be accompanied by an adult. Adult section starts at 8.00pm until late. Call Paula Roberts on 01340 810620 or for the Junior Club Andrea Fuller on 01340 871745. EDINVILLIE DARTS CLUB Meets Wednesdays from 7pm in the Edinvillie Hall. Anyone 13 years and over is welcome whatever your ability! For more information call Heather on 01340 871322 FITNESS CLASSES AT BADENOCH CENTRE Spey Street, Kingussie. Variety of aerobic classes including aerobics, body blast, piyo, turbo kick, boxercise, circuits. Call Donna Reilly on 01540 662485 GRANTOWN & DISTRICT DRAMA GROUP Thursdays, 7pm, YM/Community Centre. All new members and young people welcome. Call Jennifer Tiller on 01479 872262 GRANTOWN 1ST RAINBOWS We meet once a week for fun, crafts and friendship. Ages 5-7 Contact Jaci for information or to put a girl on the waiting list. Tel: 01479 873728

ett

and abilities through interactive music experiences. Will travel to private homes, facilities and schools. Call Kristen Macleod on 07770427396. LADIES KICKBOXING & JUNIOR SELF DEFENCE AVIEMORE Every Friday at Aviemore Village Hall, Grampian Road, Aviemore. Juniors 6:15pm - 7:15pm - £3.50 Ladies 7:30pm - 8:30pm - £4.40 Call Kevin Grigsby on 07757 327351or email kevinmgrigsby@ gmail.com STRATHSPEY ANGLING IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION Membership open to residents of the Grantown-on-Spey, Duthil, Cromdale, Carrbridge, Dulnain Bridge and Nethybridge areas. Season Visitor Permits are available. Call us at Mortimer's shop in Grantown on Spey, from where this Association is administered. 01479 872684. STRATHSPEY RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB Poll Creagan, Newtonmore. Contact the secretary Ian Chadburn on 01540 673686 WESTERN FRONT ASSOCIATION We hold 9 meetings per year on Saturday afternoons in Elgin Library. Open to anyone with an interest in WW1. Contact Derek Bird on 01343 870562 or email chairman.wfasnb@virgin.net www.wfascotlandnorth.org.uk 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.

HARMONY MUSIC THERAPY SCOTLAND Individual and Group Music Therapy sessions to encourage, enable and empower all ages

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Strathspey

The Editor The SpotLight “Marketing Team” recently conducted an “attitudes to SpotLight “ survey in Elgin shopping centre. We really enjoyed talking to so many people and getting such useful feedback. We were really heartened to hear how much you appreciate ‘the wee mag’ and were thrilled to learn that nearly 95% of you look through your SpotLight every month. Well done and thank you!

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

December Issue Deadlines Editorial: Friday 2nd November Advertising: Wednesday 7th November

KEVIN RIDDOCH GLAZING SERVICES LTD

! Don't move - Improve

FOR

DOORS GLAZING AND

CONSERVATORIES We can also supply and fit Blinds, Bathroom & Kitchen Splashbacks, Fully fitted Kitchens, Extensions and Roofline Solar panels. Please contact us for a FREE Quote on:

01540 661917

07873312981

www.riddochglazing.co.uk

PASTORAL LETTER & CHURCH MEETINGS I may not be alone in finding that, as you get older, you tend to look back. Forty plus years of ordained ministry provide me with a wealth of fascinating experiences. One that stands out was the opportunity of doing some ‘store ministry’. I was the Rector of a large town centre parish on Merseyside and developers opened a large shopping centre. Our church took its ministry to the town community very seriously and tentative overtures from us about whether ‘the church could offer any support’ was snatched up and three of us found ourselves exercising a regular ministry in some of the stores. Tuesday mornings found me in a couple of our major departmental stores, floor walking, chatting with staff and plonking myself in the staff canteen. You didn’t have to indulge in a ‘grab them by throat Christianity’ for conversations to rapidly flow. Often, significant issues arose. This was the time when Sunday trading was taking off. This was met with little enthusiasm from the staff. Even management admitted that they were trapped into doing it because everyone else would! For many, there were real concerns about the ‘threat’ to family life and, indeed, the development of a coherent leisure pattern. Many were anxious that they would

have little alternative but to turn up on a Sunday. Well, that was twenty odd years ago and I leave the reader to determine whether or not Sunday has just become yet another day. I’ve certainly no intention here of indulging in tirades against modern society. It is, though, no accident that in the Biblical account of Creation God ‘rested on the seventh day’. God blessed the seventh day and set it apart as a special day. The six – one cycle was firmly established. Two thousand or so years ago, with the coming of Jesus, things were to change. For Christians, such was the power of the Resurrection of Jesus that they transferred the ‘special day’ to the first day of the week. However, principle remained. The need to pause, to stand back, indeed to enjoy leisure, was built into our understanding of scripture. Read the Gospels and you will find accounts of Jesus’ amazing work rate, but He recognised and often struggled with the need to stand back and pause. Just before the feeding of the five thousand, He sought to take a break with His disciples: “Let us go off by ourselves to some place where we will be alone and you can rest for a while” (Mark 6:31). We all need to achieve the right balance

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. Grantown-onpage 6 - November 2012

lay

in life. A crammed diary or a life of frenzied activity is no guarantee of fulfilment. Indeed, we can be busy because we’re fearful of stopping, of pausing and reflecting. Human relationships need working at and that means time. Above all else, our relationship with God needs constant nurturing and frenzied activity can be a convenient device for shutting Him out. Of course, at the heart of this work/life balance, is the need for space to worship God and for Christians, regular worship lies at the heart of our discipleship. God’s pattern in the creation of the world is surely no accident. He recognised the need for balance; for activity and reflection; for work and leisure; time for being busy and time for nurturing our relationships. Even the preacher needs to realise that you can’t give out if you don’t take in! It’s a long time ago, but my Tuesday mornings still stand out as being some of the most stimulating opportunities for ministry. What I heard was a powerful reminder about life balance. I suspect this is an even more pressing issue for today!

Richard Gillings St Columba Church, Grantown-on-Spey

Spey. Sundays 10.30am with crèche. All welcome. Contact Rev. Morris Smith: 01479 872084. Kingussie Parish Church Sundays 11am. All welcome. 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 Coval Street, Dufftown. Sunday 11am: Family Eucharist. Tel: 01343 547505. 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

“Cut your fuel bills”

01309 676911

...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

“Come and see us. We’re by the Mechanics Football Ground”

͚ZĞĂůŝƐƟĐ͕ ,ĂŶĚƐͲKŶ dƌĂŝŶŝŶŐ͛ tĞůĚŝŶŐ &ŽƵŶĚĂƟŽŶ ^ŬŝůůƐ !"#$%&'&()*+,-.$%&/0#+$+$1 &ŝƌƐƚ ŝĚ ŽƵƌƐĞƐ ;,^ ƉƉƌŽǀĞĚͿ (".-.$%#02&3445&621+.$. ;Z ,/^Ϳ

sŽĐĂƟŽŶĂů YƵĂůŝĮĐĂƟŽŶƐ ;EsY͛ƐͿ ŝŬĞ DĂŝŶƚĞŶĂŶĐĞ ; ǀĞŶŝŶŐƐͿ /0#+$&%7.&/0#+$.0 3+0.&8#05.$

άϮϬϬ /> &ƵŶĚŝŶŐ ŽŶ ŵŽƐƚ ĐŽƵƌƐĞƐ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ ƚŽ ĞůŝŐŝďůĞ ĐĂŶĚŝĚĂƚĞƐ ƉƉƌŽǀĞĚ WƌŽǀŝĚĞƌ ĨŽƌ > ^ ĂŶĚ ^ƚĂŶĚĂƌĚ >ĞĂƌŶŝŶŐ ƌĞĚŝƚƐ

&Žƌ ĨƵƌƚŚĞƌ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ĐŽŶƚĂĐƚ ƵƐ ŽŶ

9:;9<&=<=<;>

ǁǁǁ͘ǀĂƌŝƐͲƚƌĂŝŶŝŶŐ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ

COMMUNITY COUNCIL NEWS

ett

ExtractS From thE miNutES oF thE mEEtiNg oF 9th auguSt 2012 oF aviEmorE aNd viciNity commuNity couNciL

NEW BUSINESS I) SPEYSOUND RADIO John Grierson advised that himself, Audrey Mackenzie and Bill Lobban had recently attended a Meeting held by Speysound Radio with regards to their funding. Shirley Bateman gave a detailed up-date on the situation and work they have done to raise awareness of Speysound Radio and the support they received from various MP’s, MSP’s and other individuals and agencies. Bill Lobban said that the area was very lucky to have its own radio frequency and that it was very important not to lose the broadcasting frequency. John Grierson thanked both Shirley Bateman and Alison Mair for attending and asked them to keep AVCC up to date with progress of the station. II) GLENMORE PARKING John Grierson advised that he had received an email from residents of Glenmore with regards to parking problems which have become much more of an issue since Forestry Commission introduced parking charges. Discussion took place with regards to this issue and it was remitted to JG to arrange a meeting with all relevant agencies. III) PLANNING – 12/02747/FUL 3 Holiday Homes at Kila, Grampian Road, Aviemore – Discussion took place with regards to this planning application to which Councillor Jacqueline Douglas took no part in. Ron Whyte, Alastair Dargie and Lorna McGibbon all took a neutral position with regards to this application. Neil MacNair objected to the application and Audrey MacKenzie felt that it was very important that the quality of the design and build should be of a high standard, especially given its location within the village. After further discussion it was agreed to take a neutral position but with comments regarding parking, design of a high standard and

page 8 - November 2012

a recommendation of a slate roof finish. Remitted to JG to respond. Iv) COMMUNItY COUNCILS PLANNING REPS NEtWORK John Grierson advised that he had not been able to attend the first meeting and the next meeting was scheduled for Thursday, 13th September at the Lecht between 2pm and 4pm. He said that he would not be attending. It was remitted to Jacqueline Douglas to ask CNPA whether they would split this into regional groups and at a suggested time of 6pm to 8pm hours to allow more people to attend. v) OLD HEADMAStERS HOUSE John Grierson made the suggestion that the former Headmasters House/HC Service Point be returned to housing stock. Bill Lobban advised that Highland Council had already agreed that this property should be returned to housing. vI) DEvELOPMENt PLAN SEttLEMENt MAPS The CNPA Development/Settlement Plans were looked at and much discussion took place with regards to the settlement boundary. It was remitted to John Grierson to ask Planners to attend an AVCC meeting to explain the significance of settlement boundaries. vII) REvIEW OF PERMIttED OPENING HOURS OF LICENSED LAtE HOURS CAtERING John Grierson advised AVCC of the consultation/review of Permitted Opening Hours of Licensed Late Hours Catering. AVCC agreed on the responses and it was remitted to John Grierson to complete the consultation paper.

and Renewable Bill consultation. He asked all members to take the time to look at this and let him have their comments so that John Grierson can formulate a response.

AOCB A) NEW SCHOOL PLAYING FIELD John Grierson advised that AVCC had received a complaint from a member of the public that more trees were being felled at the new school site to put in the new football pitch. Concerns were also raised about the lack of fencing along the railway line and the flooding issues on the new pitch area. John Grierson gave a summary of a letter he had written to CNPA with regards to these issues. B) MRS CHAPMAN John Grierson advised AVCC of correspondence received from Mrs Chapman of Kinvechy Gardens concerning the new puffin crossing that is just 1 metre from her front door. John Grierson advised that he had written to Highland Council with regards to this and had received a long email response stating that, this was the “optimum pedestrian desired route from the housing catchments from the east side of the village”. John Grierson summarised this email and advised that he has been researching the mentioned guidelines with regards to crossings. It was remitted to John Grierson to reply to Highland Council. C) MAHR SIGNS At DALFABER DRIvE Lorna McGibbon asked whether any action had been taken to remove the signs from the bottom of Dalfaber Drive. John Grierson advised that this was now a park issue and it was remitted to John Grierson to contact the park with regards to this signage.

vIII) COMMUNItY EMPOWERMENt AND RENEWAL BILL John Grierson advised that he had emailed a copy of the Community Empowerment

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Strathspey

LOGIE STEADING 4

A warm welcome and exceptional service. All aspects of modern dentistry including Hygienist, Tooth Whitening, Implants and Aesthetic Dentistry. Simon Bowe LDS RCS MSc John McDavitt BDS MGDS RCPS MSc We look forward to welcoming you.

Speyside Dental Clinic *-0$'-2%

.%, %1%/3 $"3

"+ 5

138 High Street, Aberlour, Banffshire AB38 9NX 01340 871 738 info@speysidedental.com pey www.speysidedental.com

Evening & Saturday morning appointments available

A PASSION FOR PREVENTION 222 *-&(% #- 0)

BDA GOOD PRACTICE SCHEME MEMBER

Choices for Children We are recruiting foster carers for Choices for Children, morayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intensive fostering scheme Choices for Children provides family care for children and young people who have complex needs, and are already looked after in residential or foster care. Foster carers in our scheme receive a range of local supports from a highly committed team, as well as payment equivalent to full time work. This role is challenging, rewarding and can make a real difference. Interested? The Fostering Team also needs foster carers for teenagers and sibling groups. Please contact us on the number below.

Please contact Ian or Ailsa for information 01343 563568 Adoption & Fostering Team, 6 Moss St, Elgin, IV30 1LU

USEFUL INFORMATION

lay

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 Winter Term Starts Winter Term Ends Spring Term Starts Holiday Closure Holiday Closure Regional Closure Regional Closure Regional Closure Spring Term Ends Good Friday Holiday Easter Monday Holiday Summer Term Starts

Mon 29th Oct 2012 Fri 21st Dec 2012 Mon 7th Jan 2013 Mon 11th Feb 2013 Tues 12th Feb 2013 Wed 13th Feb 2013 Thurs 14th Feb 2013 Fri 15th Feb 2013 Thurs 28th Mar 2013 Fri 29th Mar 2013 Mon 1st Apr 2013 Mon 15th Apr 2013

HIGHLANDS Winter Term Ends Thurs 20th Dec 2012 Spring Term Starts Mon 7th Jan 2013 Mid-term Holiday Fri 15th Feb 2013 Mid-term Holiday Mon 18th Feb 2013 Spring Term Ends Thurs 28th Mar 2013 Good Friday Holiday Fri 29th Mar 2013 Summer Term Starts Mon 15th Apr 2013 May Day Holiday Mon 6th May 2013 In-service Closure Thurs 16th May 2013 In-service Closure Fri 17th May 2013 Speyside High & Feeders Mon 3rd Jun 2013 Summer Term Ends Fri 5th Jul 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 VILLAGE HALLS AND COMMUNITY CENTRES Archiestown village Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 810442 Aviemore Church Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01479 810280 Boat of Garten Community Hall. . . . . . . . . 01479 831213 page 10 - November 2012

Dufftown Community Centre . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 871641 Dufftown Mortlach Memorial Hall . . . . . . . 01340 820287 Edinvillie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 871745 Fleming Hall (Aberlour) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 871853 Glenlivet Public Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01807 590486 Glenrinnes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 821061 Grant Hall (Rothes) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 831578 Speyside Sports and Community . . . . . . . 01340 871641 tomintoul Richmond Memorial Hall. . . . . . 01807 580709 VETS Aberlour veterinary Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . 01340 871385 Andrew Rafferty veterinary Centre . . . . . . 01479 872272 Morven veterinary Practice Ltd . . . . . . . . . 01975 962837 Other useful numbers including doctors and schools 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

SpotLight on Strathspey

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).

PARLIAMENT BLOG & TIDE TIMES

“

Parliament Blog

”

ett

UHI is a real source of pride for all of us in the Highlands so, I was delighted to show off progress to my cabinet colleague, Vince Cable MP, the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills when he visited Inverness this month. I was able to show him the progress at the UHI Inverness Campus site before visiting a career and training exhibition in Eastgate shopping centre organised by the Scottish Provincial Press . We also visited the Cathedral Old Boys School, where Dr Cable was guest of honour at a 'vintage tea party' and coffee morning. The event - which was open to the public - included a short Q and A - delving into the Secretary of State's experience in government and his views on the economy. Local Liberal Democrats had funded the event and many had given up their time to both arrange and take part in the event. I count myself very lucky that so many of the Highland Liberal Democrat supporters are willing to give up their time to take part in events like this across the north even in the worst 'Highland weather'. It was great to see so many people there, both to contribute and to take part and I'd like to thank all those who came along to help and those who just popped in for a coffee. I particularly enjoyed the home-baking, which was to die for!

I am not sure that it is in accordance with Scottish Government policy, but I did enjoy a dram at around 10:30am the other morning. It was, of course, in the line of duty! A visit to Glenkinchie Distillery, near Edinburgh, to highlight the fact that the number of people visiting the Diageo distilleries in Scotland had risen by 14% to around 271,000 in the year to this June. A young Danish teacher happened, at the same time as me, to be visiting the distillery with her student party. She was corralled into doing a couple of photos along with me, each of us sampling the amber nectar! As they say: it is a tough job, but someone has to do it! Later that morning, I opened the newly named Caledonian Waldorf Astoria Hotel at the West End of Princes Street, including unveiling of the Hamilton and Inshes Clock, which is set five minutes fast to help hotel guests avoid missing their train. The longest serving staff member, Billy Garioch, who has worked at the Caley Hotel for forty years, told us of the time that he nearly refused entry to Liz Taylor and Richard Burton, because they looked a wee bit scruffy. This was in 1967 when they were filming the Taming of the Shrew and to avoid being identified by the public, Liz Taylor wore a black veil upon entering the famous hotel. After these two events in the day, it was a bit of an anti-climax to listen to the debate in Holyrood later in the afternoon. Politicians are not accustomed to so much glamour. But it is great to see the investment in our hotels and distilleries throughout the land and the great hospitality food and service offered to visitors to Scotland from all over the world.

Danny Alexander MP

Fergus Ewing MSP

Wednesday 7-8pm Totally Eighties 8-9pm Folk ’n’ That

107.1fm Monday 7-9pm Pete’s Beat 9-10pm John’s World Tuesday 7-8pm Shirley’s Choice 8-9pm Aimee After Eight

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

Papercrafts ELGIN & Creative OLDMELDRUM www.sugarnellie.com

Saturday 8-10am Malky & Jason in the Morning 8-9pm Phil Steedman Sunday 8-10am Grant Gallagher Breakfast Show

www.speysound.com to listen live

Chr istmas Events Ev ents

AT A T THE WOOLMILL

Visit our website for full details

Regular classes and workshops

BE INSPIRED TO CREATE & LEARN All things paper crafting and beyond. &2%% $%-/.342!4)/.3 $!93

Open daily from 10-3 , Friday to Sunday The Woolmill, Knockando, AB38 7RP KNOCKANDO KNOCKANDOWOOLMILL.ORG.UK WOOLMILL.ORG.UK

%,'). 3AT RD .OV s /,$-%,$25- 3AT TH .OV

page 12 - November 2012

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Strathspey

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On &),-3 s 3(/73 s %6%.43 s #/.#%243 s %4#

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

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Onâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; listings deadline for december issue is friday 2nd 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.

OCTOBER 30 tuesday grantown-on-spey health walk 10.30am - 11.30am. short, easy, local walk lasting 20 mins to an hour led by qualified walk leader. tel: 01479 841233. nethy bridge health walk 1pm - 2pm. short, easy, local walk lasting 20 mins to an hour led by qualified walk leader. tel: 07519 569005. moray council spending priorities roadshow (speyside area) 2pm - 4pm and 7pm - 9pm. fleming hall, aberlour. informal public information event. meet the councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s councillors and managers and get a deeper understanding of services. tel: 01343 563996. website: www.moray.gov.uk nina nesbitt @ ironworks 7pm. 14+. tel: 0871 7894173. www.ironworksvenue.com

3 saturday edinvillie swri craft day 9am - 6pm. edinvillie community hall, banffshire. visitors & new members are assured of a warm welcome. visit www.edinvillie.co.uk glenrinnes fireworks display 6.30pm - 9pm. glenrinnes community centre. hammers (music) doors open 8pm. flanagans bar, elgin. a night of punk, crust & sludge metal. support from pine barrens, absolutist & bld. website: www.facebook.com/thesyndicate2008

3 saturday - 4 sunday

31 wednesday creag meagaidh national nature reserve nature walk 10am - 12noon. refreshments after. tel: 07961 632685. email wayne.fitter@snh.gov.uk 3 magic words : how to access your subconscious mind to become an active co-creator in your own life 7.30pm, highland spiritual cinema, inverness. website: www.highlandspiritualcinema.net

elgin model fair (organised by elgin model railway club) 10am - 5pm, elgin town hall, elgin. specialist hobby suppliers & refreshments. adults ÂŁ4.50, concs ÂŁ3.50, children ÂŁ3, family (2+2) ÂŁ12. under 5s free. email duncan macrae: enquiries@elginmodelrailwayclub.co.uk

4 sunday travelling by tuba II (music) 4.30pm. st kentigernâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s church, ballater. concert with a variety of brass instruments. tel: 01339 756260.

NOVEMBER 1 thursday pub quiz 9pm - 11pm. the woodshed, hilton coylumbridge, aviemore. test your general knowledge skills at this popular pub quiz. ÂŁ1 per person. tel: 01479 810661.

2 friday inverness abc boxing amateur tournament @ iron-

SpotLight on Strathspey

works, inverness 7pm. seated. over 16s. ÂŁ20. tel: 0871 7894173. website: www.ironworksvenue.com jimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s music night glenlivet public hall, bridgend of glenlivet, ballindalloch. local musicians come along and play together in an informal way. entry free. bar and raffle! email: info@glenlivethall.org.uk â&#x20AC;&#x153;moray stone cutters for 50 yearsâ&#x20AC;? by drew baillie (moray society lecture series) 7.30pm - 9.30pm. elgin museum hall. admittance ÂŁ3, or ÂŁ2 for society members. call 01343 543675 or email curator@elginmuseum.org.uk nina nesbitt (music) 8pm. the loft, east grange farm, kinloss. tel: 01343 850111. website: www.ninanesbittmusic.com

6 tuesday scottish ornithologistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; club: rory crawford will talk on â&#x20AC;&#x153;scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seabirds - a mystery wrapped in a contradictionâ&#x20AC;? 7.30pm. culloden library. tel: 01463 221661 or 01808 511740.

7 wednesday creag meagaidh national nature reserve nature walk

tel: 01309 690063

November 2012 - page 13

garten community hall. an illustrated talk by peter mackay. tel: 01479 831506.

10am - 12noon. refreshments after. tel: 07961 632685. email: wayne.fitter@snh.gov.uk molly ducket (inverallan church guild) 2pm. grantown museum.

7 wednesday - 16 december cairngorm christmas market ptarmigan bar, cairngorm mountain ltd, aviemore. inspiring ideas for xmas gifts. visitors to the market require valid funicular ticket, friends ticket, or season ticket. tel: 01479 861261. info@cairngormmountain.org

8 thursday pub quiz 9pm - 11pm. the woodshed, hilton coylumbridge, aviemore. test your general knowledge skills at this popular pub quiz. £1 per person. tel: 01479 810661.

9 friday calum stewart and heikki bourgault 8pm. universal hall, findhorn. £10 / £8 concs / £6 u16s. tel: 01309 690311. website: www.findhorn.org

13 tuesday armistice day parade 10.30am. braemar war memorial, ab35 5yl. daniels’ beard: music and nonsense 6pm. lonach hall, strathdon, ab36 8un. £8/£5 (students, u18, & jobseekers). schoolchildren free. “freedom of expression” (the pink castle philosophy club) 7.30pm. riverside lounge, glen mhor hotel, ness bank, inverness. open to anybody and friendly towards anyone who is gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender. website: www.pinkcastle.eu

14 wednesday “the usa and trilliums” (highland garden rock club) 7:30pm. nairn community centre. illustrated talk by robert unwin. call john owen: 01320 366246.

15 thursday

! $ "$ ! $ "$

pub quiz 9pm - 11pm. the woodshed, hilton coylumbridge, aviemore. test your general knowledge skills at this popular pub quiz. £1 per person. tel: 01479 810661.

10 saturday cairngorm ski club snowsports equipment sale dalfaber golf and country club, aviemore. sell and buy secondhand & new snowsports equipment. email: sale@cairngormskiclub.co.uk

10 saturday - 11 sunday

“do you like jokes?” comedy club presents joel dommett & others doors open 7pm. starts 8pm. elgin town hall. licensed bar. contact 01343 591111 for tickets (£15). www.doyoulikejokes.co.uk

17 saturday

moray piano competition 2012 elgin town hall. www.moray-piano-competition.co.uk

11 sunday cairngorms farmers market 10.30am - 3.30pm. inverallan church hall, grantown-on-spey. a free enjoyable day out for the family. email: organisercfma@aol.com soup and sweet in aberlour 12noon - 2pm. aberlour fleming hall, queen's road.

12 monday scott & shackleton: heroes revisited 7.30pm. boat of

page 14 - November 2012

16 friday

learn about study with the open university 10am – 3pm. eastgate shopping centre, inverness. come and meet us for an informal conversation about courses, study methods, and other aspects of learning. visit www.open.ac.uk/events

18 sunday edinvillie craft day all day event. edinvillie community hall, banffshire. visit www.edinvillie.co.uk automata display & dolls house exhibition 1.30pm. grant arms hotel, grantown-on-spey. price: donation in aid of highland hospice. tel: 01479 872466 or

tel: 01309 690063

SpotLight on Strathspey

01479 831185. email: val.dykes@balvattan.co.uk

26 monday

20 tuesday tea & competition fundraiser for the greyfriars club doors open 6.30pm. eyes down at 7.30pm. the supper room, elgin town hall. tel: 01343 544487.

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

22 thursday

28 wednesday

tombola 7.30pm. in the royal british legion. in aid of st mary’s church, dufftown. pub quiz 9pm - 11pm. the woodshed, hilton coylumbridge, aviemore. test your general knowledge skills at this popular pub quiz. £1 per person. tel: 01479 810661.

creag meagaidh national nature reserve nature walk 10am - 12noon. refreshments after. tel: 07961 632685. email: wayne.fitter@snh.gov.uk old time dance socials 7.30pm. memorial hall, dufftown. tel: gary coull 01542 888471. email: garycoull@hotmail.com

24 saturday

29 thursday

festive fair 11am - 2pm, aviemore bowling club, dalfaber drive. xmas stall, bric-a-brac, raffle, bottle stall, teas & home baking. for information, email norriemacleodabc@gmail.com inverness choral society’s autumn concert 7.30pm. eden court, inverness. call 01463 234234 or visit www.invernesschoral.org.uk / www.eden-court.co.uk daimh (music) 8pm, universal hall, findhorn. £12 / £10 (concs) / £8 u16s. tel: 01309 690311. website: www.findhorn.org aviemore ceilidh dance with archie mcphee band 8pm. aviemore primary school and community hall, aviemore, ph22 1sy. tickets £5.

30 friday

carrbridge & vicinity community council meeting 7.30pm. at the village hall. all welcome. pub quiz 9pm - 11pm. the woodshed, hilton coylumbridge, aviemore. test your general knowledge skills at this popular pub quiz. £1 per person. tel: 01479 810661. “representations of st andrew” by charles burnett, ross herald of arms extraordinary (moray society lecture series) 7.30pm - 9.30pm. elgin museum hall. £3 or £2 for society members. call elgin museum: 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.

THRE THREE E BAGS BAGS WOOL WOOL Large Range of Designer Yarns, Handmade Crafts, Knitwear, Buttons, Felt, Bags, And Sheepskins.

Fabulous Fabulous New New Yarns Yarns & Patterns Patterns Arriving Daily Daily Large Large Stock Stock

Wo Workshops rkshops

Pop in for for a visit. vi sit. Take Take this this voucher voucher and get 10% 10% OFF O FF

Newsletter News letter Website Webs ite Facebook

!"#$%&$"'(%)"*+,% !"#$%&$"'(%)"*+,% -. /0(+,%12"$3+%4%% -./0(+,%12"$3+%4%% 5"6+%3$/7%89:;; 3$/7%89:;;%

10% Discount with voucher on yarn only until Dec 20th 2012

Visit our shop or find us online at: www.threebagswool.net Above the Old Pantry Aberlour AB38 9PX

Tues to Sat 10 to 5 Monday & Sunday-Closed Tel: 01340 881749

recipe recipe

Chef’s Confidential Cor Corn-fed n-fed chicken, carrot sticky rice, Thai-spiced carr & coriander sauce Impress ess family and friends with this simple modern modern take on Impr chicken curry, pr prepared epared and cooked in a restaurant restaurant style! The carr ot sauce and rice can be done in advance. carrot 4 cor n-fed chicken breasts breasts (skin on) corn-fed Carr ot crisps (carr ot peelings, deep fry in hot oil for 2-3 Carrot (carrot minutes) For the sauce: 4 carr ots carrots 4 cloves garlic 1 inch ginger 1 onion (peeled and diced) 450ml chicken stock 150ml double cr eam cream 1 ½ tbsp rred ed curry paste Fr esh coriander to taste Fresh Add 2 tbsp oil to saucepan with all vegetables. Cook 6-8 mins. Stir in curry paste. Add stock and bring to boil for 10 mins. Add cr eam. Bring back to boil. Cool and purée purée in cream. blender until smooth. Chill until needed – for up to 3 days. For the rice: 200g Thai jasmine rice 400g water 2 whole cloves Boil gently until water has been absorbed. Cover with lid or cling film. Set aside and cool. Chill until needed. pre-heat e-heat pan) TTo o cook the chicken (Do not pr

Using a cold, non-stick pan, add 2 tbsps of oil and the breast with skin side down. Bring to medium heat. chicken breast Cook 3-4 mins, tur turn n over and cook for a further 1-2 mins. TTurn urn back over on to skin. Place in a pre-heated pre-heated oven at 180°C. Cook 6-9 mins or until chicken is cooked thr through. ough. Serve on war med plates with sauce and rice. Gar nish with warmed Garnish carrot carr ot crisps and coriander coriander.. Chicken curry made easy. Enjoy!

Kris McKie, The Royal Hotel, Elgin

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

New s SPARES s REPAIRS s SERVICE

Range of High back chairs Riser/Recliner Chairs & Electric Beds...

Be Safe Be Seen A Full Range Of Lights & Reflective Items In Stock

...everything to keep you comfortable this winter.

RESERVE YOUR BIKE FOR CHRISTMAS FULL RANGE NOW IN STOCK!

STUARTS CYCLES

Hours of Business MON - FRI 9am - 5pm

01309 676677 sales@wheelchaircare.co.uk

OF FORRES

21 West Road, Greshop Industrial Estate, Forres IV36 2GW (Behind Lidl)

Tel: (01309) 672432 www.stuartscycles.co.uk MOUNT!). ")+%3 s 2/!$ s %,%#42)# s #(),$2%. ")+%3

Easy Parking & Disabled Toilet Facilities

Christmas List The entire Castle is exclusively yours for your Christmas Party

*Minimum 10 people per booking

able Avail ay from d every t 1st Sa mber Deceto 2nd Sat 2mber Dece

Soup, Stovies, Scrumdidleeumptious Afternoon Teas Sticky Toffee Pudding Sip in Regal Splendour & Ice Cream Sandwiches, Scones, ÂŁ40 Dinner ÂŁ40.00* Soft Ice Cream per person Lashings of Tea & ÂŁ20.00* Lunch ÂŁ20 Cream Cakes per person ÂŁ10.00* per person

Hot Dogs, Hot Chocolate, Ice Cream & Cookies, Crafts with Mrs Claus, Wee Gift with Santa in the Drawing Room Child ÂŁ10.00* per person Adult ÂŁ10.00* per person Babies under 6 months FREE

BOOK

To Book your Date and Time Contact: Twinkletoes, Head Elf 4EL s EMAIL TWINKLETOES CASTLESTUART COM s WWW CASTLESTUART COM

NOW !

travel

Dreaming of... ...South Island, New Zealand

Although it takes 24 hours to get there by plane, the South Island of New Zealand is a beautiful and rewarding place to visit and to do it any justice stays should not be shorter Cable Car Queenstown than about 2 weeks (and another 2 weeks for the North Island is required). We started by flying through Los Angeles and Auckland and we arrived into Christchurch for our first night. After the devastation of the earthquakes in February then June 2011, they are getting back on their feet and are eager for people to return to help with the economic plight of Christchurch. Although the devastation is still fully visible and the Central Business District (or CBD as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s known locally) is out of bounds, there is still plenty to do here. You can take a punt on the River Avon which flows through Hagley Park and around their botanical gardens or visit the museum which has a large and varied display of local culture and a very emotional display of messages, all in the shape of hearts from around the World after the earthquake. We then drove from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo and were stunned by the beauty of the azure blue waters glinting in the sunshine. We stopped at the Church of the Good Shepherd which is a must for photo opportunities. Lake Tekapo has been given World Heritage Status for its night sky. Mt John Observatory provides night sky tours if you enjoy star watching! We then drove down to Dunedin and along the Otago Peninsula where you can look for the Yellow-Eyed Penguins, Fur Seals or the Albatross colony. Larnach Castle is also well worth a visit. From there we moved on to Te Anua and took a cruise along the Lake to see the Glowworm Caves. This is a fascinating underground adventure through a 15,000 year old cave system to the Glowworm Grotto to see hundreds of tiny Glowworms do a fantastic light show! Suitable for all ages. Next stop, Milford Sound where we took a cruise. The Milford Road is a stunning alpine drive. Visitors need to allow plenty of time to make the drive, if travelling independently, as this is a steep and windy highway. At 119km (approx 75 miles) from Te Anau to Milford Sound, the sealed road takes a minimum of 2 hours driving without allowing for stops. Visitors to Milford Sound will not be disappointed. Its truly spectacular scenery has remained unchanged throughout the ages. Water is what makes Fiordland such a lush place with countless lakes, rivers, streams and waterfalls. You should be prepared to enjoy some rainfall during your stay. Queenstown is the â&#x20AC;&#x153;adventure capitalâ&#x20AC;?. For serious adrenalin junkies you can bungy jump, canyon swing (recommended!), take a jetboat tour (exhilarating, fun and wet!) or mountain biking. For the not so adventurous, you can take the Skyline Gondola, have a meal in the restaurant with fantastic views over Queenstown, ride the Luge, which is great fun, or take a cruise aboard the iconic TSS Earnslaw on Lake Wakatipu to see a working farm at Walter Peak. Other activities available include walking on Glaciers, travelling in 2nd World War DUKWs (amphibious trucks with seats) and any number of death-defying trips in white water, in and out of boats. Queenstown has it all. With a fantastic choice of hotels, restaurants and activities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; there is something here for everyone. A busy and tiring time but would do it all again in a flash!

Information kindly supplied by Lake Tekapo

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

CHRISTMAS MARKETS Treat yourself to a trip to a Christmas market this year

Edinburgh to Budapest 22 Nov 3nts B/B From ................ £322.00

Edinburgh to Prague 10 Dec 3nts B/B From ................ £243.00

Edinburgh to Munich 03 Dec 2nts B/B From ................ £262.00

Inverness to Belfast 10 Dec 4nts B/B From ................£374.00

Glasgow to Berlin 03 Dec 2nts B/B From ................ £256.00

All Subject to availability. All prices are per person. Extra nights can be added on subject to availability and cost.

FORRES 01309 672203

beaver Travel

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.

events

Elgin BID- Christmas Light Switch On Celebration Saturday 24th November 2012 Elgin BID are delighted to host another fabulous, festive fun filled Christmas Light Switch On Celebration on Saturday 24th November 2012 in Elgin City Centre from 11am – 5.30pm. Why not come along and join in the magic of Christmas, with a day that offers something for everyone with a wide range of fun, music and entertainment that will suit everyone in the family. Join the Cairngorm Mountain Reindeer as they parade through the town centre from Johnston Carmichael and through the West End. The parade starts at 2.00pm and the Reindeer will spend the rest of the afternoon at the East End of the Plainstones outside Walkers shop till approx. 4.00pm. Meet these amazing animals and find out all about them – you can even sponsor a Reindeer.

Amy Royan from Music Mania. There is also an afternoon of entertainment in St Giles Centre (unit 7 old New Look) with Elgin an District Pipe Band, Nae Reel, Moray Dance, Blair Mcleod. with more to be confirmed. Don’t forget the local City Centre business and farmer’s market stalls, offering a unique range of high quality, locally produced food, drink, crafts and gifts, ideal for getting that special Christmas present. Street Entertainment will be provided by Bubbles the Clown and if you are feeling extremely extravagant why not visit the Arnold Clark Car Display and see if you source a bargain. For the chance to win cash prizes to be spent with a City Centre retailer enter the Christmas treasure hunt which takes you around the whole City Centre area and you may even find a clue or 2 in a car!!

To make the event particularly special, Elgin BID

At 5.00pm the giant Christmas Tree Lights will

has secured a wide range of local musicians

be switched on with a spectacular light show

who will be happy to entertain you throughout

and Lantern Parade which starts at 4.45pm.

the afternoon. With Elgin and District Pipe Band,

Then to finish off Fortunate Sun close the fun of

to Elgin City Band and Ceilidh to Rock, there is

the day. So why not come along and enter

something to suit everyone. We are particularly

into the Christmas Spirit, and have a wonder-

proud to welcome back Stewart McLeod and

ful day out.

ELGIN BID To keep up to date with Elgin BID events for the coming year follow us on our website or facebook: www.elginbid.cok.uk or www.facebook.com/elginbid here you will find details of all our events for 2013. You will also be able to find out what is happening with Elgin BID and about new businesses moving into Elgin City Centre and developments with our existing businesses.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Elgin BID businesses and team.

Elgin BID – Christmas Light Switch On & Light Show Saturday 24 th November 2012 11.00am – 5 .3 0pm Elgin City Centre Come along and join the celebration with music, entertainment and fun for the whole family. Visit the Street Market, offering a wide range of high quality food, drink, crafts and gifts. See the Arnold Clark Car Display & much, much more. For full programme listings and more details visit our web site or follow us on facebook www.elginbid.co.uk or www.facebook.com/elginbid

Programme of Events 11.30am Elgin and City Pipe Band 12.15pm Nae Reel 12.45pm Moray Dance 1.15pm Amy Royan and Stewart Mcleod 1.30pm Blair McLeod 2.00pm Cairngorm Mountain Reindeer Parade 2.20pm Wot’s Next 3.00pm Fat King George 3.50pm Rock Academy 4.10pm Jack & Jill Nursery 4.30pm Elgin City Band 5.00pm Christmas Light Switch On 5.10pm Fortunate Sun *Listings are approximate timings and subject to change

At Last! A NEW FORM OF HEATING FROM GERMANY Simple to install, Powerful, Economical, and no more servicing - EVER! This incredible heating could be the answer to help beat the ever increasing energy costs. Amazingly it is not gas or oil, nor solid fuelbut clean electric! All you need is a standard electricity supply and NO special night tariff. In Germany, Austria, Poland Russia, Eastern Europe and increasingly in the UK, more and more people are choosing to heat their homes and offices with this very special form of electric heating in preference to gas, oil, LPG or any other form of conventional central heating or night storage. When you see this incredible heating for yourself, you could be next! As you can see from the picture, the heating looks just like a conventional radiator but STOP! It is very, very different! Put simply that clunky central heating boiler that needs constant servicing and replacement parts isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the only choice any more! Now you can choose to heat your homes, offices or extensions or conservatories with this incredible German heating which provides individual control over every single room without the need for a central control or space to site a boiler. Now the

boiler space can become a valuable storage area! Installation takes minutes and running is completely clean with no danger of leakage, no holes through walls, no floor boards up and no tradesmen trundling around the house wielding pipe cutters, spanners, hammers, wrenches and dirty work-boots! This incredible German heating simply plugs in and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s it! Job done! You can even do just one room or the whole house. Get your free info pack right now by calling 01343 819676 or online at www.elsco.co.uk This heating is NEW in Scotland yet in many parts of Europe it has been a mainstream form of heating for a long time. We are the only outlet for this heating in the whole of Scotland, now giving a truly Scotland wide coverage operating from Glasgow for the central belt and borders and Elgin for Grampian and Highlands and Islands. Discover for yourself this incredible German heating, get your FREE info pack right away by calling Elsco Heating on 01343 819676 and ask for John or online at www.elsco.co.uk

Index of Advertisers A Gift from Scotland ................................................5

Moray Coast Architectural ......................................3

AES Solar ................................................................7

Moray Piano Trust ................................................14

Allan Studio Kitchens & Bathrooms ......Inside Front

Open University of Scotland ................................11

Baztex ..........................................................17 & 19

Papercrafts Boutique ............................................12

Beaver Travel ................................................18 & 19

Royal Hotel - Elgin ........................................16 & 17

Castle Stuart ..........................................................17

Scotengineering ......................................................3

Choices For Children ..............................................9

Speyside Centre ....................................Front Cover

City of Elgin BID Limited ..................................20-21

Speyside Dental Clinic ............................................9

Elsco Heating ........................................................23

Speysound Radio Limited ....................................12

Ferrari Horsefeeds ..................................................3

Stuarts Cycles ......................................................17

Forres Tree Services................................................3

The Royal Hotel, Keith ..........................................19

Highland Green ......................................................3

Three Bags Wool ..................................................15

Kevin Riddoch Glazing Services ............................5

Universal Hall ........................................................14

Knockando Woolmill ............................................12

Varis Training ..........................................................7

Kylauren Homes....................................................22

Wheelchair Care....................................................17

Logie Steading ........................................................9

William Wilson ....................................Outside Back

Mackenzie & Cruickshank ......................................7

your first choice for bathrooms sensational offers available in-store bathroom suites • showers & enclosures tiles & accessories • wet rooms fitted furniture • experienced staff

INVERNESS Henderson Road, Longman Ind. Est. IV1 1SR. Tel: 01463 245502 Fax: 01463 241670 invernessshowroom@williamwilson.co.uk

ELGIN 7-9 Pinefield Parade IV30 6JQ Tel: 01343 543181 Fax: 01343 541702 elginshowroom@williamwilson.co.uk

also at: Dalfaber Industrial Estate, AVIEMORE. Tel: 01479 811567

www.williamwilson.co.uk

FREE BATHROOM DESIGN SERVICE