Lochaber Life #366 April 2024

THE SILLY GOOSE

A DINING EXPERIENCE

From a high-achieving student at Lochaber High School to the creator of culinary delights at Silly Goose restaurant in Achintore Road, Fort William, Chef David Hickman has transformed the local dining experience with his innovative and exceptional menu.

Based in the Lime Tree and working closely with new owner Ian Lewis, David and his wife Kylie ensure they prepare only the best and finest food using the freshest ingredients that are, as far as possible, sourced locally.

David and Kylie met several years ago while they were studying professional cookery at UHI in Fort William and as a marriage made in the kitchen they decided to call the restaurant ‘Silly Goose’ after her affectionate name for him at the time.

Since then, and despite major renovations going on around them in the Lime Tree, they have built up a strong local following of regular diners keen to enjoy new dishes as the menu changes to reflect the fresh ingredients of the changing seasons.

All types of dietary requirements are also met with vegetarian and vegan options, again with David and Kylie making them specially and also very different from the ‘usual’ restaurant offerings. A range of fine wines and other drinks are also available to compliment the food.

Dining at the Silly Goose is exceptional as every dish is prepared from scratch, blending the basic ingredients in the traditional way, with even ‘small’ items such as sauces or mayonnaise made by hand in the restaurant for the finest flavours. On taking a seat diners are presented with freshly made, still warm,

bread as not only a gesture of welcome but a taste of things to come as they make their choice from the menu of Scottish and International dishes, with a few added ‘Chef David’ specials. David and Kylie will also do their best to meet any special requests from customers for a specific dish.

Such is the attention to detail in producing each and every item, many European diners have asked if the chef is from their particular country as the food tasted just like their family recipes from home.

In tune with the quality menu, the surroundings at the Silly Goose are equally pleasant, with a series of small tables which can also be brought together in catering for larger parties. A new extension to the restaurant also increases the number of places available and also offers more room for special events, such as weddings and other celebrations. For anyone who appreciates fine dining, quality foods and chefs who put in maximum effort to ensure every dish is perfect, Silly Goose is definitely the place to be.

IT’S A SMALL WORLD

Now in its eighth year, the Lochaber Model and Craft Fair opens up a whole new world in miniature with a tremendous exhibition spread across the Nevis Centre main hall.

Organised by local skilled modeller Robert Wilson, exhibitors from around Lochaber, all over Scotland and even further afield set up their stalls to show off a tremendous range of models on a variety of subjects. Cars, trucks, ships, trains, planes and incredibly detailed dioramas, perfectly capturing specific scenes, freezing them in a tremendously detailed miniature.

Many of the models are ‘scratch built’, made from parts which are not mass produced but individually crafted by the modeller who carefully studies every detail to get the look and scale totally correct, as well as fitting together perfectly in constructing the finished replica.

There are also many kits which have been carefully glued and painted to look just like the real thing, with others exhibited by enthusiasts who

buy ready assembled models of a particular subject in which they are interested.

Robert himself, who is a very keen model makers, specialises in making detailed replicas of trucks, many of them based on the types used by local companies, complete with accurate logos, names and even tiny tartan seat covers favoured by individual drivers. He scratch builds many of the parts himself, adding them to parts from specific kits to personalise them. Each year is guaranteed to bring in some of the drivers of the actual vehicle who express amazement that even minuscule details inside their cab have been incorporated.

The show really has something for everyone of every age group and interest, with some truly astounding examples of everyday subjects reproduced in incredibly tiny detail.

All proceeds from entry fees are split between several local charities, which is even more reason to support the show on Saturday May 4 – as it happens very appropriate as a special Star Wars display will be with you!

Iain Ferguson

It is almost 75 years since the Rotary International movement decided that a case could be made for extending its membership coverage to the West Highlands of Scotland and, in 1949, the Rotary Clubs of Oban and Lochaber were founded.

Over three quarters of a century the clubs have kept close ties and have been very active in their local communities and supportive of national and international causes such as eradicating polio, funding Water Aid and financing emergency shelter boxes.

Recently members of the Oban Rotary visited the Lochaber club

in Fort William and, for the first time in 75 years, both clubs have appointed lady presidents in the same year – Flora Mckee is president of the Lochaber club and Ciorstan Baxter is president of the Oban club.

President Flora warmly welcomed the visitors and President Ciorstan responded that it was important that the long-term relationship be firmly maintained as we move forward in this troubled world.

After enjoying a tasty lunch together in the Alexandra Hotel, members moved over to the Nevis Centre for a challenging game of 10-pin bowling!

Flora added “The aim of Rotary International is to promote peace and harmony the world over. If you share these aims you would be welcome at either of our clubs”.

A reader’s picture with a difference this month as it is also an appeal from Kim Ferguson (whose animal rescues featured last month) about information regarding her own pet Parrot, Alfie. He went missing from her home in Spean Bridge a couple of months ago. He is very friendly and talkative, so if anyone found him and took him in, or even found a body which looks like him, please do get in touch.

BURNT BASQUE CHEESECAKE

by David and Kylie Hickman

LOCHABER AND BEYOND

NEW WAY TO VIEW

A collection of historic photographs from across the Lochaber Life circulation area will shortly be going live so anyone from across the world can travel through time and scenes of yesteryear. Local historian Robert Cairns has spent considerable time amassing a huge collection of images from Fort Augustus to just south of Duror, scanning, cataloguing and uploading them to a newly-created social media site.

Building on his previous successes with the Lochaber Detecting Group and Lochaber Archaeological Society, where thousands of pictures are

LOCHABER BEYOND

VIEW OLD PICTURES

already online, Robert has further expanded his interest in history by collecting images from street scenes to workplaces and transport.

He is happy to share them widely and for free online, but is also offering to download the whole collection to anyone who can send him a stamped, self-addressed envelope with a memory stick. While he will do this for free, he also offers the opportunity for them to make a donation to charity, suggesting either Fort William & District Royal British Legion Scotland or Mindfit Lochaber. For more details Robert can be contacted on robertcairns363@btinternet.com

GET THE GARDEN READY FOR SPRING

Iain Ferguson

Weather permitting, February is a good month to start preparing your garden – and maybe yourself – for the coming spring.

Flowers and vegetables will both need attention if you are to get a good show from them as they grow.

So what is to be done? If the ground isn’t frozen you can begin to cultivate seed beds. If you have the facilities it is also a good time to start warming up the soil with polythene or cloches, in preparation for sowing in the coming months.

Once you have decided what you would like to plant, organise the seeds by sowing date and file your seed packets by the month they

need to be sown in. Have a good go at clearing out perennial weeds by digging them up, roots and all, to get a head start on them before they start to get established in the new growing season. Get your vegetable seed beds ready by removing all the weeds and digging in lots of compost. You may also want to cover it with sheets of black plastic to keep it drier and warmer in preparation for spring planting.

For existing plants such as snowdrops, lift and divide them when they are still green to either relocate them or create more plants.

This is also the time to move any deciduous trees or shrubs that need repositioning but only, of course, if the soil is not frozen or waterlogged.

If you want to make some raised beds, now is a great opportunity before the growing season begins. Raised beds can often allow the soil to warm up faster and if properly made can also drain more effectively, giving your plants a healthy start.

Check for plant diseases such as hellebore leaf spot which gives rounded brown spots on the leaves and remove any that are affected.

There is always something else to do in the garden, but perhaps these tasks are enough to keep you going at the moment and will give you some enjoyment rather than be considered just a necessary task.

FRASER – DEREK

1933 – 2024 (Inverlochy)

Peacefully, with his daughter by his side, in the care of the Belford Hospital, Fort William, on Thursday 25th January 2024, Roderick Hugh Fraser, known to all as Derek, aged 90 years, of Lundy Road, Inverlochy, Fort William, retired Fitter Foreman for British Alcan (Lochaber Smelter) and a former player and stalwart of Kilmallie Shinty Club. Beloved husband of the late Elma, a treasured dad to Rhona and the late Maureen, a proud Grampa to Fraser and great Grampa to Ruaridh, a dearly-loved relative, neighbour a great friend to many. So greatly loved and missed.

WILSON – ELIZABETH

1943-2024 (Caol)

Peacefully, in the care of the Belford Hospital, Fort William, on Wednesday 14th February 2024, Elizabeth Wilson (Liz), aged 80 years, Strone Place, Caol, Fort William. A devoted wife to Alan, a treasured mum to Gary and Bryan, mum-in-law to Leona and Gillian, gran/other gran to Ryan, Logan, Millie, Evan and Flynn, a much-loved sister to Ann and the late George and Alex, a dearly-loved relative and a very good friend to many. Sadly missed.

THURNHAM –CAROLINE

1959 – 2023 (Ballachulish)

Peacefully, in the exceptional care of Abbeyfield Care Home, Ballachulish, on Wednesday 27th December 2023, Caroline Jean Patricia Thurnham, aged 64 years, Argyll Cottages, Ballachulish. A loving mum to Luke, and a member of a community whom she loved and was lucky enough to be loved by in turn.

MACPHERSON –ARCHIE

1960 – 2024 (Caol)

Sadly but peacefully, in the care of ICU –Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, on Tuesday 6th February 2024, Archibald Duncan MacPherson (Archie), aged 63 years, Broom Drive, Caol, Fort William. A loving husband to Yvonne, a treasured dad to Martin, Mark, Karen and the late Donald, and father-in-law to Christine, Natalie and Kerr, a treasured papa to Lauryn, Miley, Nathan, Erin, Zander, Willow-Belle and Isla-Rose, a much loved brother to Donnie, Christine and the late Alister, a dearly loved relative and a very good friend to many. Forever in our hearts and memories.

SMITH – JAMES

1938 – 2024 (Corpach)

Sadly, but peacefully, in the care of the Belford Hospital, Fort William, on Wednesday 31st January 2024, James Smith (Jim), aged 85 years, Lady Margaret Drive, Corpach, Fort William. Beloved husband to Ellen, a treasured dad to Andrew, Lyn and Iain and father-in-law to Suzanne, Colin and Jo-an, a wonderful grandpa to James, Liam, Ewan, Craig and Calum, a caring brother to the late Andy, a cherished uncle to Andrew and Ann, a dear relative, neighbour a good friend to many. So greatly loved and missed.

WILEMAN – JULIE 1968 – 2024

(Caol)

Suddenly and unexpectedly at home, on Friday 26th January 2024, Julie Anne Francess Wileman, aged 55 years, Kilmallie Road, Caol, Fort William, a hard working and valued member of her local community. A treasured mum to Molly, a loving daughter to Charles and Sandra, a cherished sister to Yvonna, Thomas, Louise and Lynne, a much loved auntie, niece, cousin, colleague, neighbour a wonderful friend to many, and a loving guardian of her beloved pets. Forever loved and missed.

GAHAN – WILLIAM

1931 – 2024 (Compton, Newbury)

Peacefully in the care of Birchwood Care Home, Newbury, on Monday 15th January 2024, William Gahan, aged 92 years. Beloved husband of the late Marion Gahan (née MacLeod, formerly of Fort William), a loving dad to Vivienne and Michael and father-in-law to Neil and Sabine, a wonderful grandad to Sam and Daniel and Finn and Lilly, a dearly loved relative and friend. Sadly missed.

VICKERS – BRIAN

1961 – 2024 (Inverlochy)

Peacefully, after a short illness, in the care of Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, on Wednesday 31st January

2024, Brian Vickers, aged 62 years, Abrach Road, Inverlochy, Fort William, long serving employee with the Highland Council for over 44 years and an avid fan of Celtic Football Club. A loving son to Christine and the late Billy, a caring brother to the late Tricia and brother-in-law to Ewan Paterson, a much loved uncle and great uncle, nephew, cousin, a dearly loved relative, colleague and a good friend to many. You’ll Never Walk Alone.

CAMERON – MARY 1942 – 2024 (Treslaig)

Peacefully, with her family by her side, in the exceptional care of the Abbeyfield Care Home, Ballachulish, on Monday 29th January 2024, Mary Elizabeth Cameron, aged 81 years. Much loved wife of Dugald, wonderful mother to Ian, Marann, Fiona and the late Ewan Cameron, loving Granny to Mac, Callum, Lewis and Marann, cherished sister, aunty, mother-in-law and friend. Forever in our hearts and memories

WINKLER – GILLIAN

1939 – 2024 (Maidstone/Duror)

Peacefully, in the loving care of Capel Grange Care Home, Maidstone, on Thursday 15th February 2024, Gillian Winkler, aged 84 years. Adored wife of the late John, a treasured mum to Alison, Joanne and Louise, a proud grandmother to Hannah, Callum, Charlie, Luke, Jack and Louis, a caring sister to the late Clive, a much-loved relative, neighbour and a good friend to many. So greatly loved and missed.

MACKINTOSH –MARGARET

1931 – 2024

(Corpach)

Sadly, but peacefully, in the care of the Belford Hospital, Fort William, Margaret Ann Mackintosh, aged 93 years, Tigh Tosh, Corpach, Fort William. Beloved wife of Tosh (Corpach Hotel), a treasured mum to Alexander and George, a wonderful gran to her grandchildren, a much loved relative, neighbour and friend. Sadly missed.

BUCHANAN – ANGUS

1934 – 2024 (Lochyside)

Sadly but peacefully, in the care of Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, on Thursday 1st February 2024, Angus Hugh Buchanan, aged 90 years, Mossfield Drive, Lochyside, Fort William. Beloved husband to Nan, a loving dad to Donald, Ann, Rhona and the late Moira and father-in-law to Margaret, Brian and John, a wonderful papa to CarolAnn, Steven, Nicola, Niall, Jack, Ash, Shona, Rachel, Cameron and Emily, a proud GG to Callum, Innes, Flora, Ingrid, Hugo, Riley, Findlay and Hannah a much loved uncle and a good friend to many. RIP.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

MOIR – LEONA

2004 – 2024 (Fort William)

Suddenly, but peacefully in her sleep at home, on Sunday 18th February 2024, Leona Anne Moir, aged 19 years, Ben View, Blar Mhor, Fort William. A loving mum to Ayla Rose, a treasured daughter to Nicola and Alan, and step-daughter to Rhona, a much-loved sister to Morgan, Orlagh and Cammy, a cherished granddaughter to Michael and Eileen, Heather and Rosemary, a dearly-loved relative and a wonderful friend to many. Forever loved and always in our hearts.

BOA – ANN

1969 – 2024 (Claggan)

Peacefully, in the care of Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, on Monday

12th February 2024, Ann Catherine Boa, aged 54 years, Dun Deardail, Claggan, Fort William. A treasured daughter to Willie and the late Isobel, a loving sister to William and the late Marie, a much-loved aunt to Kimberley and a proud great aunt to Lewis, a dear relative and friend. Forever in our hearts.

MACDONALD – JOHN

1947 – 2024 (Caol)

Peacefully, in the care of the Belford Hospital, Fort William, on Tuesday 6th February 2024, John Philip MacDonald (John the Bun), aged 76 years, Moss Road, Caol, Fort William. Beloved husband of the late Margaret, a loving dad to Claire, David, Gavin and Steven and father-in-law to Matt, Anne, Aileen and Karen, a treasured grandad to Ross, Ryan, Emma-Jane, Alexis, Connor, Sean, Theresa, Naomi-Rose, Kirstie, Duncan-John and Jackson and a proud great grandad to Gracie, a cherished brother to Anne, Kathleen, Margaret-Rose and the late Tom and Mary, a much loved relative and a great friend to many. RIP.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

HENDERSON – JAMES

1958 – 2024 (Inverlochy)

Suddenly at home, on Thursday 8th February

2024, James Bruce Henderson, aged 65 years, Wades Road, Inverlochy, Fort William. A loving partner to Jackie, a treasured son to the late Margaret and Robin Henderson, a loving brother to Karen, a much loved Godfather to Sarah Jane, a dearly loved uncle, relative, neighbour and friend. So greatly missed.

MUNRO – JOY

1938 – 2024 (Inverroy)

Sadly, but peacefully at home, with Billy by her side, on Thursday 22nd February 2024, Jessie Margaret Munro, known to all as Joy, aged 85 years, Inverroy, Roy Bridge. Beloved wife to Billy, a treasured mum to David, Graham and Alison, a loving granny to Megan, Sean, Finn and Dara, a dearly loved relative, neighbour and friend. RIP. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.

CROOKES – WILLIAM

1934 – 2024 (Strontian)

Sadly, but peacefully in the comfort of his own home, on Saturday 3rd February 2024, William Crookes, known to all as Bill, aged 89 years, ‘Dunira’, Acharacle. A loving husband to Christine, a much-loved dad to Patricia, Iain and Sheila and father-in-law to Ian, Mandy and John, a wonderful papa to Allan and Euan, David and John and John and Kirsty, a proud greatpapa to Millie-Rose, Benjamin, Elliot, Murray, Corran and Artan, a caring brother to John, a dearly-loved relative and friend to many. Sadly missed.

MACDONALD – MARY

1934 – 2024 (Caol)

Peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on Thursday 22nd February 2024, Mary McCulloch Aitken MacDonald, known to all as May, aged 89 years, Torlundy Road, Caol, Fort William. Beloved wife of the late Donnie, a treasured mum to Anne, John and Marlene and mother-in-law to Henry, Joyce and Gary, a wonderful granny to Marc, Steve, Bryan, Derek, Daemon, Paul, Justine, Gillian and Kayleigh and a proud great granny to 17 (and one due in June), a caring sister to Margaret Haining and the late Hughie and Robert Haining, a dearly loved relative and friend. So greatly loved and missed.

MCLELLAND –MARGARET

1951 – 2024 (Plantation)

Peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on

Tuesday 6th February 2024, Margaret McLelland, aged 72 years, Morvern Place, Plantation, Fort William. Adored wife to Ian, a treasured mum to Caroline, John and Angela and mother-in-law to Michael, Robert and the late Caroline, a wonderful nanny to Abi and Connor and granny to Kirsten, Reece and Rhiann, a caring sister to Tommy, a dearlyloved relative and a much-loved friend to many. Forever loved and missed.

MANSON & MACBEATH FUNERAL DIRECTORS

10 Battlefield Crescent, Inverlochy, Fort William PH33 6NB

Origins of Lochaber Athletic Club and a few Ben Nevis race snippets. Part 1

John Dougan

Some years ago, whilst on the committee of the athletic club and after discussions as to the age of the club I decided to try and find out its exact age.

There were various clues. I knew that it had been formed from an amalgamation of members from local youth clubs and that most, if not all, of the founding members of Lochaber Athletic Club (LAC) were primarily interested in the Ben Nevis Race organised by the Ben Nevis Race Association.

Prior to LAC’s formation, local Ben Race entrants were entered from Ben Nevis Athletic Club, Lochaber Sports Club, St Mary’s Youth Club and possibly Inverlochy Youth Club.

Eddie Campbell and Brian Kearney, both Ben Race winners around the period of the formation of LAC, had been members of the St Mary’s Youth Club. On looking at the results of the Ben Race around the club’s possible time of origin and the names of the clubs against the respective local runners this again gave another clue.

I used the microfilm facility in Fort William library to search through the old Oban Times. These are in reels of one-year interval and so began the search. It turned out to be a very interesting venture, however it is quite difficult keeping focused on the one specific task, as it is very easy to go off at a tangent when other items of interest constantly appear in these old newspapers. In addition to The Oban Times articles, Ben Nevis Race programmes from that era (all typewritten) were an interesting source of information.

Below I have noted a few of the articles I came across relevant to local athletics, with the dates they appeared.

From the Ben Race Programme of 1953 & 1954 – both races started at 4.30pm!

1954 programme states, “The 4.30pm start was to let staff and shopkeepers see the race finish, many of whom had donated towards the prize list... Despite the drop in the number of competitors in this year’s race (18), the Ben Nevis committee decided to go ahead and run

another race hoping for more runners next year.” (26 as it transpired and pre LAC).

Extract from ‘A Grand Sporting Event’ by W.L. Andrews.

“In Scotland they have an annual race up and down Ben Nevis, the toughest Marathon in Great Britain. Perhaps you have never heard of it but

its fame may over-run the Border* before long... A friend once told me that I should find it a bloody, lung bursting, neck breaking affair, with danger from mist and also precipice. I have seen no speck of blood on even the most desperate runner panting home. The contestants are well trained and though taking shortcuts over rocks from which the

unwary might break their legs, or even crash to death, they are far better mountaineers than to invite such a fate.”

Ben Nevis Race Programme

Sat. 3rd September 1955.

Race start 3.30pm!

“On a misty day runners are advised to follow the path and ignore any shortcuts, whilst a bell, sounded at intervals by the steward on the top of the Ben, will guide their footsteps on the final part of the ascent.”

On this same day a local girl, Kathleen Connochie unofficially ran the race, starting two minutes behind the male competitors and completing it in 3 hours and 2 minutes.

The Oban Times Saturday 28th January 1956

WOMEN BARRED FROM BEN NEVIS RACE

A meeting of Ben Nevis Race Association was held last Thursday when it was minuted that regulations precluded the association from organising a Ben Nevis race for women. The committee also felt that it was not a suitable event for the average woman athlete.

(It was not until another 26 years later, in 1978 that ladies were officially allowed to enter the Ben race and it was Ros Coates of LAC who crossed the line in 1hr 53min 23sec in 92nd position out of a field of 165, an extremely impressive run).

Next month: The ‘new’ Lochaber Athletic Club is formed.

DOGS GET HAY FEVER TOO

Hay fever sufferers know that pollen levels tend to be higher in the summer months, but dog owners may not be aware that dogs can suffer from hay fever too, just like humans.

The signs & symptoms

• All-Over-Scratching

• Red, sore or flaky skin

• Runny eyes and nose

• If your dog is really suffering, it might be time to consider allergy testing. This is when your veterinarian examines your dog to determine the root cause of skin irritation, infections and discomfort.

Suggestions to relieve hay fever symptoms:

Limit their exposure to pollen. This may be difficult if you live in the countryside, but here are a few things you can try to help manage the symptoms”:

Dog pollen allergies come about in the same way that we develop allergies – by coming into contact with pollen granules released by plants. It can start at any age but typically develops in early life.”

Schedule walks and outdoor activities for early mornings and late nights when the pollen count is lower due to cooler temperatures. Keep your dog on a leash in grassy areas to prevent them from rolling around and getting covered in pollen.

Plan your walks to avoid areas with abundant weeds, woodland, or grasslands where pollen concentration may be higher.

Mow your grass in your garden regularly to keep it short. Keeping the grass short can also prevent grass seed injuries where seeds attach themselves to your dog’s fur and, when undetected, can burrow into the skin.

During hay fever season, keep windows and doors in your home shut whenever possible. This will help minimise the indoor pollen count

and give your dog some relief.

After a walk, gently wipe your dog to remove any pollen from their paws, fur, or face. Regular brushing will also help remove pollen from their skin, even if you can’t see it.

If it’s a particularly hot day, and your dog is a fan of the garden hose, you can also hose them down to wash away pollen.

Washing your dog’s bedding regularly and keeping the house clean is something humans do when suffering from hay fever, but don’t forget about your dog’s bedding too. Keeping this clean and any areas in the house they spend a lot of time in will help reduce allergens in the house.

Do not give your dog human antihistamines but do consult your vet.

LOCHABER HIGH SENIOR PUPILS GO FOR LONDON ’24

In mid-February, 54 pupils from S6 embarked on their long-awaited adventures in London. What was until Covid a regular event to be looked forward to as pupils progressed until their final year, this was the first trip since lockdown. Welcomed by the best weather of the week, we navigated the Underground for the first time and explored London in the sunshine. We watched the hit show Hamilton at London Palace Theatre. Friday began with exploration of the streets full of iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, 10 Downing St. and Buckingham Palace. After free time in SoHo the group then took a river cruise down the Thames and rode the London Eye for panoramic views.

Saturday morning gave the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the offerings of the Natural History and Science Museums before returning to Westminster to begin their walk of the South Bank and the Tate Modern. We

then had ample free time in Westfield Stratford City to eat, relax and take part in some retail therapy. Our limited time on Sunday was used around Leicester and Trafalgar Squares, with many pupils choosing to explore nearby Chinatown or the Natural Portrait Museum. One pupil said: “It was so exciting to get away for a few days as a group and it was the first time for many like myself. Whether it was doing the classic touristy things like getting

pictures underneath Big Ben and taking a trip up the London Eye, or even just squeezing into the tube and getting a bit lost, we made some really great memories together.

We will remember the trip for years to come

Trip leader James Fairbairn said: ”Trips such as these give the unique opportunity to explore and build memories together, strengthening the bonds of friendship which we hope to continue into later life. The experienced team of teachers supporting the groups exploration agreed that they have a bright future ahead of them and are ready for the next steps in life. London ’24 would not be achievable without considerable support from the school and local communities. I would like to give particular thanks to local businesses and families who supported the S6’s fundraising events throughout 2023.”

KENNY’S BEN CHALLENGE

What started off as a bit of a health kick, for Kenny McLaughlin from Ardtornish to get him off the couch, quickly grew legs, and very soon morphed into a challenge of both physical and mental strength when he decided to climb Ben Nevis three times in 24 hours, whilst raising money for the Samaritans.

He plans to take up the challenge in May, along with one or two others who have agreed to go along to ‘chum’ him up and down for each one of the three legs.

For the last three months he has been sticking to the training schedule he devised, getting out to climb Corbetts or Munros every Wednesday and Saturday. with the closest Munro to being Ben More.

As he was planning the challenge anyway, he came up with the idea of also doing it for a good cause and set up a page on social media to raise money for the Samaritans (whose work also just happens to be featured on p33).

Initially he set what turned out to be modest target of just £500, but with more and more interest building, he had to increase the total several times, with donations sitting at an amazing £3,075 in early March. With a fair bit of time still left before he takes to the hill, donations can still be made and will be very welcome.

Kenny said: “If anyone would like to make a donation, I have a JustGiving page which makes it very easy. Head to JustGiving.com and type Kenny McLaughlin into the search bar. Every single

penny and pound helps.

I would like to thank everyone who has given so far and to those who are about to give, but also to CalMac Ferries for very kindly stepped forward and offering to pay my travel costs over to Mull each time I wanted to climb there, which was such an incredibly generous gesture.

“I am well on track, two stone lighter than when I started training, and raising a lot of much-needed money for such an important cause”.

For those who may want to go along and encourage his efforts in person more details of the exact date and times of Kenny’s challenge will be appearing the The Lochaber Times as the event draws closer.

Iain Ferguson

The Regulation of the Scottish Funeral Profession

Further to my article in the February edition of Lochaber Life, I am delighted to report that the Scottish Government has now confirmed that the Funeral Director Code of Practice has received parliamentary approval on 31st January 2024. The approved code is now available on the Scottish Governments website. The code aims to achieve the following outcomes:

1) Ensure minimum standards of care of the deceased.

2) Establish and promote a common understanding of good practice in relation to care of the deceased.

3) By doing so it will help increase transparency of choice of goods and services to help people in Scotland make informed decisions

Within the body of the code the funeral director must:

• Inform the client of the locations(s) where the deceased will be cared for/kept.

• Ensure that all care of the deceased must take place in a location(s) specifically chosen for that purpose and that

the funeral director must also ensure that their care facility or mortuary is fit for purpose.

• Ensure that no client is pressured or exploited, and advice should be given to the client by experienced and/or trained staff in a clear manner.

The code further states that:

Proper ‘First Offices’ are provided. First Offices is a process of caring for the deceased to assist with the preservation and to make them presentable for viewing. Where it is possible to do so first offices must take place in every case unless the client has specifically requested that first offices are not to take place. First offices must be carried out in a manner that maintains the dignity of the deceased, treats them with care (including moving the deceased in ways which should avoid damage) and, at a minimum, includes cleaning and washing the body, dressing them, closing the eyes and mouth and arranging the hands.

John McLellan Funeral Directors pride ourselves in every aspect of the above. We have state of

the art facilities and a large capacity cold room for caring for the deceased. More importantly is we have the best trained and experienced funeral staff in Lochaber, when it comes to the provision of First Offices. We also have male and female members of staff that can provide the specific family requests for the care of male and female deceased. Members of the public should ask their funeral directors what their refrigeration facilities include (if any), and what level of First Offices they provide. As I said back in the February edition of Lochaber Life, we at John McLellan & Co Ltd pride ourselves in setting a high standard for the bereaved families, and we are committed to making further investments in the current year. This includes our new ‘Gathering Room’ that will be able to provide funeral event services for up to 50 people. We will be providing the details for you soon in the forthcoming editions of Lochaber Life.

Pete O’Neill BSc, MBA, Cert Funeral Service. Company Director

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

EWEN CAMERON

1950 - 2024

Ewen’s Family would like to thank everyone for their cards and loving messages of sympathy and following his death. We are thankful for the staff at Raigmore and the care they gave to dad before he passed away. Thank you to everyone in the shinty community for their kindness and support at this difficult time and to all those who braved the weather on the day of Dad’s funeral to join us at the village hall and pay their respects. To John, Natalie, and Peter at McLellans we are incredibly grateful for all your help and support in making funeral arrangements and ensuring everything went smoothly on the day. Thanks is also extended to Alan Smurthwaite for his comforting service. £835.35 was raised in his memory and will be donated to The British Heart Foundation.

PHILLIPA JOYCE ROWLANDS

1936 - 2024

John, Tom, and Susan would like to thank everyone who has sent kind messages, cards, and condolences following the loss of their beloved Mum. To Rev. David Sim, thank you for all your support and for the lovely service at the Duncansburgh. To Natalie, John, and Peter at McLellan’s – thank you for taking such good care of Mum and for your kindness and compassion in helping us make arrangements, we are so incredibly grateful for all of your help. Thank you to McDonalds Florist in Inverlochy for the lovely flowers, they were so beautiful and thank you to all the staff at the Alexandra Hotel for the funeral tea. And finally, thank you to all who came to Mum’s funeral to support us and help us say goodbye. £176.00 was raised in memory of Joyce and will be donated to nurses in Lochaber who looked after her so well.

DOUGLAS ALEXANDER MINNIS

1941 - 2024

Teda and all the family wish to thank everyone for the love and sympathy that has been shown to them at this difficult time. Thank you to Rev. Donald Davidson for his kind words and comforting service. Thank you to McDonald Bros. Inverlochy for the beautiful flowers. Thank you to all the staff at John McLellan funeral directors for their professionalism and support from start to finish. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who came to Douglas’s funeral to pay their last respects. A total of £914.80 was taken in donations at the service and will be made to the Kinlochleven surgery.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

MIRIAM WYLIE

1952 - 2024

Louise, Sheila and Liam wish to extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who sent cards, flowers, and comforting messages of sympathy following the death of their mother, Miriam Wylie, on the 8th February 2024. They are extremely grateful to Major Janet McIntyre for the comforting service at the Salvation Army Hall, to Heather Sim for playing the organ at the funeral and to Sean Cameron for piping at the graveside. They are also hugely appreciative of all the staff at John McLellans for their care, attention and professionalism in taking care of all the funeral arrangements.

£353.60 was collected in memory of Miriam and will be donated to Fiona’s Ark.

MAY MACINTYRE

1937 - 2024

Sincere thanks to all those who sent cards and kind messages following the passing of May Macintyre. Thank you to all the staff at the Belford Hospital for their exceptional care throughout May’s short illness and to all at John McLellan Funeral Directors for their professionalism and care. Special thanks to Rev David Sim for the service of thanksgiving and celebration of May’s life, to Dr Chris Robinson for his fitting tribute, and to David Hamilton for playing the organ. Finally, thank you to all those from near and far who attended May’s funeral. Generous donations in memory of May totalled £1,233.92 which will be shared equally between the Duncansburgh Church Organ Fund and CAU, Belford Hospital.

Natalie

APRIL

TIME

Such was the reaction to last month’s collection of Lochaber photographs from the start of the new millennium, here are some memory stirring events from over the years in April.

Photographs by The Write Image and alba.photos

Iain Ferguson

Purchase of Ben Nevis by John Muir Trust.

Belford abseil with Consultant David Sedgwick and colleagues.

Lochaber High School fashion show.

Lochaber Phoenix Boxing Club team for the Home Show (their next one is on April 6th 2024!)

Lochaber Sea Cadets fundraising boat pull.

Limbering up for Cancer Research fun run.

Jo Cowan

Every 10 seconds, a Samaritans volunteer answers a call for help from someone who may be considering taking their own life.

Our volunteers are based at 19 branches spread across Scotland. They come from all walks of life and backgrounds and are ready and willing to listen, 24/7, 365 days a year.

Samaritans’ priority is simple – to reduce the number of people who lose their lives to suicide. To do this, we need to reach those who need help most and encourage them to make that potentially life-saving call.

The Highlands region recorded the second highest number of probable suicides in Scotland between 2017 and 2021. We know that issues of isolation, access to health services and stigma can often make seeking help and support challenging in a rural area. We also recognise that the geography of the Highlands and the nature of many key industries – such as tourism and aquaculture – can create issues of isolation and connection.

For anyone struggling to cope, a trained Samaritans volunteer can provide a listening ear and valuable support. Our 24-hour helpline and email service can help, whatever someone is going through, at any time.

We are currently recruiting for home-based volunteers living in the West Highlands

and Skye for our Email Hub – from Oban to Ullapool and Skye. Email Hub volunteers will be part of the Samaritans volunteer pool and respond to calls for help from throughout the UK via email. Excellent training and support will be provided and, although the role is remote, you will be part of a team.

Email Hub volunteer Gavin, from Portree, said: “The training is excellent, it’s very supportive.

“Volunteering for the Samaritans Email Hub is worth the effort you put into it. It’s a group of like-minded, incredibly supportive individuals. And it fulfils a role in my life that I didn’t have otherwise.”

For more information visit www.samaritans. org/highlands-training or email highlands@ samaritans.org

Chocolate eggs, fluffy bunnies, a wee holiday? No. It’s aboot the greatest event that happened in all time and all history. And it’s something we all need. Story: A bunch of countries got together to discuss what their nations needed. They said peace, love, joy, hope and forgiveness. Peace to stop war. Love for each other. Joy for happy folk. Hope now and for the future. Forgiveness for others who wronged them. Folks, there is only one moment where all these things met, the cross of Jesus. Jesus

What’s Easter all aboot?

died to give us peace for our souls and peace with God. Jesus loved us so much he suffered and died for this world’s wrong to make things right. Joy to give us a joy in our hearts that lasts. Hope, now and forever. Forgiveness so we can be forgiven for our sins. He cleans us up from the inside, that’s what we all need. Jesus died then rose again to prove that he is the Son of God. Someone you can believe in and put your trust in. He did it all for us. That is real, true everlasting love. That’s what Easter’s all aboot.

Scottish Government minister Stewart Stevenson officially opened the upgraded A830 with help from pupils of Arisaig Primary School and representatives of contractors, Morrisons and Grontmij.

Photograph: Iain Ferguson, The Write Image.

RESCUE DOGS AND NEW TUNE MARK 20th ANNIVERSARY MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

Adventurers from around the world, who are actively involved in every aspect of outdoor life, descended on Fort William to play an equally active role in the annual Mountain Festival, this year celebrating its 20th anniversary.

This year’s four-day festival celebration featured an extra busy programme of guided events, workshops, talks, films and displays from a large number of organisations and manufactures whose lives and business revolve around the great outdoors.

Launch night for the 2024 event took place in the festival hub at the Nevis Centre which featured a giant 50-foot screen on which to show in larger than life detail, exceptional images and videos both from local film makers, such as Dave MacLeod, whose work is admired around the world, alongside those from far away places.

No matter where the films were made or by whom, the pro-

ductions were all of breathtaking quality, showing both technical skill and ingenuity, as well as a deep love and understanding of the subject matter.

Recognition of exceptional achievement are also a highlight with Adult and Youth Scottish Awards for Excellence in Mountain Culture.

Cross country mountain bike racer, nomadic storyteller, author and award-winning film maker Lee Craigie was the 17th recipient of the Adult award, sponsored by Jahama Highland Estates. Inspirational climber Caitlin Connor from Cambuslang was the 10th recipient of the Youth Award, sponsored by UHI North, West and Hebrides. Unfortunately neither could be present on the night and their trophies were picked up by friends and relations.

However, recipients of perhaps the most unusual awards were presen, including SARDA Scotland rescue dogs Rogue and Bowie with their handlers Paul and Sam Noble, who also

received a special award.

A first for any festival in 20 years was the composition and debut performance of a new tune to mark the special occasion. Written by local musician ‘Wee Cal’ MacAskill, he was joined on stage by fellow musician Angus Gilpin to rapturous applause from the audience after playing the aptly titled FWMF24.

Other highlights from the 2024 line-up included Ardnamurchan-based wildlife cameraman and Strictly Come Dancing winner Hamza Yassin, who shared stories from his career alongside adventure filmmaker Emma Crome. The festival also heard from sports photographer Hamish Frost alongside appearances from personalities such as base jumper Tim Howell and long distance runner Jenny Tough.

Run entirely by volunteers, the festival looks to create opportunities for those seeking mountain experiences. For more information visit https://mountainfestival.co.uk

Iain Ferguson

LAST MONTH:

Members John Ferguson & Caroline Ferguson

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m 07899670260

e info@johnferguson-mortgages.co.uk

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M: 07884 185 279

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PARK RUN 200

Louise Pescod

Fort William parkrun celebrated its 200th event on in early February with the help of 57 parkrunners, bunting, lots of laughs and, of course, cake.

A small team comprising Helen Duncan, Jon Gay and Ian Adams established the Fort William parkrun and the course was off icially “opened” on 7 April 2018 by local running legend Finlay Wild. The first event had 79 participants and was a great success. Since then, Fort William parkrun has continued as a weekly event, with an enforced break due to the Covid pandemic.

To date, 4,252 people have crossed the Fort William finish line for the first time, with 9,461 finishes overall.

Each week there is a cheery band of volunteers helping out with run directing, marshalling, tail walking, time keeping and barcode scanning. The event regularly welcomes local parkrunners together with tourists from all over the world, including Australia. Several local parkrunners, including a former paralympian, have completed their 100th event at Fort William.

Fort William parkrun takes place every Saturday at 9.30am at Nevis Range, Torlundy, Fort William. It’s a free, fun, friendly event for joggers, runners, walkers and spectators of all ages and abilities. Volunteers always welcome.

www.parkrun.org.uk/fortwilliam

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