Lochaber Life #365 March 2024

At the heart of your community

Lochaber

Beatha Lochabair

D ANGUS MACDONAL s Here for the Highland

Advert promoted by and on behalf of Angus MacDonald, 123 High St, Fort William, PH33 6DG

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contents

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Iain

Future chef

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Mobile library

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Reader’s photograph

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Going Dutch

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Time marches on!

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Recipe

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Hedgehog diary

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Lochaber Photographic Society

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FRONT PAGE PHOTOGRAPH:

Sharon makes a Key move

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Simon’s International award

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Community Connections

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Thought for the month

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15 years ago

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Skipping for gold

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Where in Lochaber?

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Shinty season starts

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Iain Ferguson

Karen Hodgson

Published by Wyvex Media Limited

Kevin McCubbin

01397 703003

www.obantimes.co.uk

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Alex heading for next round of FutureChef Iain Ferguson Every year the Springboard charity stages ‘Future Chef’ competitions throughout Britain to encourage young people to pursue a career in professional cookery. The events are overseen and judged by top chefs in each area.

In the run-up, participants are set challenges, learn how to cook under pressure, develop practical and creative skills and build confidence. Most of this is achieved through video demonstrations, skill sheets, research tasks, challenges and quizzes, all aligned to the ‘food’ curriculum and helping students develop their technical skills and knowledge supplied free of charge by Springboard.

The young chefs, aged between 14 and 16 years, choose a dish which will impress the judges, who then watch every aspect of the young chef’s work from selection of ingredients, their early preparation, layout of the equipment being used, to cooking and, finally, how

it looks and tastes. How they handle the kitchen, keeping it organised and tidy during and after the dishes have been served and judged, is also considered.

Last year, more than 400 schools and 14,000 students engaged with the FutureChef competition, all hoping for a win in their local heat, allowing them to move on to further FutureChef events at regional and eventually national level, culminating in the final which is being held in London this month.

A regular host of the event is the UHI North, West and Hebrides in Fort William which

turns over its training kitchen for the competition.

Judges of this heat were David Hickman of The Silly Goose, Duncan Gibson of Glenfinnan train car and Brian Henry from Skye, each ‘patrolling’ the kitchen, watching and taking notes.

The youngsters had an hour to prepare and serve their delicious dishes which they all achieved, serving up two plates, one for presentation and the other for tasting. The judges then gave their opinions and announced the winner.

Out of the seven young chefs, Alex Johnstone was declared the winner and was presented with a cookery book and a certificate by Duncan Gibson on behalf of his colleagues.

Alex now moves forward to the next heat which is being held in Moray.

One of the recipes created by contestant Oliver Peill is our recipe this month. Please give it a go.

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SAVE ENERGY SAVE MONEY

AND DO A LITTLE BIT FOR THE PLANET By fitting A+ Double glazed windows to your property, it could save you £115 a year on your heating bills and stop 405kg of Carbon Dioxide entering the atmosphere.* *Source: www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/ windows-and-doors/

1 Longman Drive, Inverness IV1 1SU Tel: 01463 238000 Tyock Industrial Estate, Elgin IV30 1XY Tel: 01343 545315 6-8 High Street, Thurso KW14 8AG Tel: 01847 894956 info@cairngormgroup.co.uk LOCHABER LIFE

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or geography is vital to promote a reading culture Since the Inverness County Council proposal in the 1970s to everyone. to replace the outdated and Kitty Rose costly postal service, the rural Dyer, mother communities of Lochaber and of Ailish, said: Badenoch have been served by “I’m so grateful the mobile library. for the amazing The big yellow van allows resources we people to pre-order and collect have access or browse the shelves to pick to while living and choose books. rurally. Many areas are cutting We live in the age of funding for this increasing internet and digital kind of thing. technology so protection and enhancement of this important Here’s hoping the Highland service of making books easily Council keeps our library bus accessible regardless of wealth on the road for years to come.

Keith Thorburn

It really is invaluable to our community, as well as being a lot of fun for the wee ones and an iconic sight across the area.”

A hillside Brockan captured by veteran climber and former member of Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team George Bruce.

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Lochaber Hope offers our community a safe and positive environment that is open to all. Supporting the people of Lochaber with a wide range of sensitive and personal issues.

We offer 4 core services, counselling, mentoring, training, and employability. Our services are accessible, confidential and lifesaving. Reach out to us for support. Call 01397 704 836, email admin@lochaberhope. org.uk, or visit our website www.lochaberhope.org.uk/ We work alongside The Workshop Studios and New Connections.

The Workshop offers

opportunities to volunteer, learn new woodworking skills, chat and meet new people.

New Connections is a community hub located on Fort William High Street.

This is a warm, accessible, and inclusive space that is open to all, for people to connect, collaborate and create together. We invite you to come and check out everything we have going on www. newconnectionslochaber.org.uk

Some of the groups hosted at New Connections include the 4th trimester group, Women with Autism, Bereavement Support, Crafternoon, Addiction Recovery Peer Support, Scrabble and much more!

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FORT FC YOUTHS GO DUTCH and set off for an equally freezing cold Holland.

On frozen grass, they played Up-and-coming talented under four matches against teams 12 Fort William Football Club from the Netherlands and players have made it to Europe.

Romania in the Under 13 The journey began more category with the Fort William than six months ago as a bit - and Mallaig - boys winning of ‘craic’ amongst the coaches two, placing them third overall saying wouldn’t it be great in the tournament and earning for the youngsters to play in them a trophy for their efforts. a tournament they had heard FW 3 KFC U13 0; FW 0 about in Holland.

Spijkenisse U13 1; FW 3 After more discussion on Rignvogels U13 0; FW 0 how it could be achieved, a Kadoelen U13 2. fundraising campaign was Who better to ask about how started, the money was raised things went, than the young and off they went on a foray players themselves: to the Holland Winter Cup in Rotterdam.

Stephen Forbes: Setting off by bus in some of “We played against some the worst snow seen for many really good teams and I think years, the team and coaches we played really well.” managed to reach the airport Rocco Macmillan: “I think the trip was amazing and I liked every bit of what we did.”

Harry Stewart: “It was a great weekend. The facilities were amazing and the Iain Ferguson

games were challenging.”

Brodie Ross: “I really liked seeing the different things they do and have in Holland.”

Josh Luxton: “It was a brilliant experience playing football in Europe and winning a trophy. The rides and bubble football were also great.”

Cameron Thomson: “It was good representing Fort William with my team mates in a different country.”

Ollie Lamont: “The journey to Rotterdam was exciting because everything was new to us. I liked having fun with my team mates. We all got on well and had a great time together.

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“Our coaches were really nice to us and it was amazing of them to organise the trip.”

Jude Campbell: “I had a good, exciting trip the best time.”

Jai Mcdonald: “I really enjoyed the trip.

My favourite part was scoring my goal to make it 1-0 and celebrating with my teammates.”

Riley Lauder: “It was a great experience. I had an amazing time with my team mates.”

Chase Watson: “I had an amazing time in Holland and am very lucky to have played football against some talented teams.”

Deans Conn: “I loved everything about the weekend, I had the best time.”

Coaches Bobby MacMillan, Charles Buxton and Dave Forbes said: “The boys played great and gave a good account of themselves, both on and off the pitch.

“We picked up a third place trophy. Conditions were fresh and I think we might have stood a better chance on the artificial pitch, where the boys usually train on.

“Everyone enjoyed

themselves. We scored some cracking goals and Stephen had some fantastic saves in goal. As a club, we thank our sponsors and supporters that helped make this trip possible.

We will provide more updates in the coming days.

“We would like to take this opportunity to send a heart felt thank you to the community of Fort William for rallying together around our cause and

helping us smash our funding efforts.

“With the current season coming to a close, we are always looking for help with funding our vast running costs.

If you like what we stand for as a club and are interested in getting involved in sponsoring us or any of our four youth teams, please get in touch with our Facebook page - Fort William Youth Football Club.

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MARCH OF

TIME

Iain Ferguson

Looking through history, a certain Julius Caesar was given a warning to “Beware the Ides of March”.

Unfortunately he didn’t pay that much attention to this and actually was assassinated by his Senators. One of those wielding a knife was his close friend Brutus, which gives us the phrase (and supposedly Caesar’s last words) “Et tu, Brute” (and you Brutus). Oddly enough Brutus went on to have a coin minted to mark the occasion showing daggers and the (now free) Roman crown.

That was, of course, 2,068 years ago on what we would now date as 15th March.

While photographic/story files don’t go back quite that

2005 Now seen quite often on BBC Television presenting the weather, in March 2005 Calum MacColl was himself presented with the Boys Brigade ‘Queen’s Man’ medal.

far it may be interesting to look back on some Lochaber events in March since the beginning of this millennium - perhaps not as dramatic, but which may still trigger a few memories. All photographs

by The Write Image and alba. photos

2000 Present day Highland Councillor, Thomas MacLennan believed that the car he had recently bought with the registration plate A9 DLO may have given council road workers of the Direct Labour Organisation to mistake him for their ‘boss’.

2002 Filming of Harry Potter in Glenfinnan (stand in actor for Daniel Radcliffe).

2011 New site for Lundavra Primary School selected.

2007 Residents of Appin and surroundings decorated their lighthouse as TV character Mr Blobby as a protest at its proposed closure.

2014 Lochaber Showstoppers’ production of the hit stage musical ‘Annie’.

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� INGREDIENTS �

By Oliver Peill Professional cookery student’s entry for the FutureChef competition

� METHOD �

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P HYSIOTHERAPY M ASSAGE , R EFLEXOLOGY Y OGA FOR H EALTHY B ACKS O STEOPATHY C OUNSELLING ( INC L C O UP L ES ) CBT

F OOD I NTOLERANCE T ESTING H ERBAL M EDICINE CALL: 01397 702257

E : I N F O @ LPOODIATRY CH ABERCLINIC.CO.UK W: W W W . L O C H A B E R C L I N I C . C O . U K

What’s On at The Nevis Centre Saturday 2nd March

Nevis Market

Grab a bargain Free entry. Tables £15.

Saturday 16th March

Trail West

7pm-11pm Trail West are an explosive six-piece line-up with strong links to the Western Highlands and Islands that have shown that they are a band not to be missed.

Due to popular demand, EXTRA DATE ADDED:

Friday 10th May

Bounce Bingo

Join us for our Bounce Bingo Night, where the Nevis Centre will be transformed into a vibrant, lively space filled with music, laughter and friendly competition. Tickets selling fast

Saturday 8th June

Forever Elvis the ultimate tribute! www.neviscentre.co.uk/whats-on

Or call us on 01397 700707

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MACINTYRE – HELEN 1937 – 2024 (Ballachulish) Peacefully, in the care of Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, with family by her side on Saturday 6th January 2024, Helen Scott MacIntyre, aged 86 years, beloved wife of the late Ian MacIntyre, a devoted mum to Rosalyn and Janice and mother-in-law to Willie and Ronald, a precious granny to Lauren, Jamie, Craig and Grace, a much loved auntie to Elizabeth, a dearly loved relative, neighbour and a good friend. Forever loved and missed.

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

FRASER – ALASDAIR 1953 – 2023 (Fassfern) Suddenly but peacefully, in the care of ICU Royal Alexandra Hospital, Paisley, on Thursday 28th December 2023, Alasdair J. Fraser, aged 70 years, Fassfern Cottages, Fassfern, Fort William, well known Publican and Businessman throughout Lochaber.

Adored husband to Sandra, a treasured dad to Jacqueline, Alexander, Megan, Calum and Rachael, a wonderful ‘Granda Alasdair’ to Holly, Lauryn, Amy and Bethan, a caring son to the late Iain and Marie Fraser (Strathmore, Belford Road) and older brother to Graeme and Iain, a much loved uncle and brotherin-law, a dearly loved relative, the best boss and very good friend to so many. So greatly loved and missed.

GARWOOD – HEATHER 1949 – 2024 (Inverroy) Unexpectedly at home, on Monday 22nd January 2024, Heather May Garwood, aged 74 years, Upper Inverroy, Roy Bridge. Beloved wife of the late Ron, a loving mum to the late Dan and mother-in-law to Liz, a wonderful granny to Charlotte, Lauren and Jacob a dearly loved relative, neighbour and friend. Sadly missed.

COLLINGE – MARGARET 1951 – 2024 (Inverlochy) Peacefully, in the care of Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, on Tuesday 23rd January 2024, Margaret Collinge (née Rae), aged 72 years, Nevis Road, Inverlochy, Fort William. A loving mum to Daniel, Janine, John and Sandra, a wonderful gran to Emma, Travis, Laura, Logan, Tyler, Caleb, Autumn, Blake, Aamira and Eli, a much loved cousin to Margaret Horner, a dearly loved relative and friend. Forever loved and missed.

MANSON & MACBEATH FUNERAL DIRECTORS 10 Battlefield Crescent, Inverlochy, Fort William PH33 6NB

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MCMENEMY – MOIRA 1956 – 2024 (Caol) Peacefully, in the care of the Belford Hospital, Fort William, on Monday 22nd January 2024, Moira Jessie McMenemy, aged 68 years, Torlundy Road, Caol, Fort William. A loving mum to Paul, a much loved relative, neighbour and friend.

Rest In Peace.

MACDONALD – MURDO 1956 – 2024 (Fort William) Unexpectedly at home, on Saturday 6th January 2024, Murdo MacDonald, aged 67 years, Alma Road, Fort William. A loving dad to Gavin and a much loved brother, brother-in-law, uncle, relative and friend. Sadly missed.

ORR – ERNEST 1944 – 2024 (Fort William) Peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on Wednesday 24th January 2024, Ernest David Orr (Ernie), aged 79 years, Argyll Road, Fort William, honourary member of Lochaber Athletics Club and a 33 times runner of the Ben Nevis Race, running his last race at aged 70 years.

Beloved husband of the late Joey, a loving dad to Alisdair and David and a cherished father-in-law to Emma, a proud papa to Andrew and Innes, a caring brother to Issy, Eileen and the late Pam and Alex, a much loved relative, neighbour and a very good friend to many. So greatly loved and missed.

MACDONALD – SARAH 1942 – 2024 (Caol) Peacefully, in the comfort of her own home, with her loving sister by her side, on Thursday 11th January 2024, Sarah MacDonald, aged 81 years, Glenloy Street, Caol, Fort William. A loving daughter of the late Angus and Janet MacDonald, a dearly loved sister to Elizabeth and the late Arnie, a caring auntie and cousin and a much loved relative and friend. RIP. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.

BROGAN – GAYLE 1965 – 2024 (Plantation) Suddenly, but peacefully at home, on Thursday 11th January 2024, Gayle Brogan, aged 58 years, Bruce Place, Plantation, Fort William. A treasured mum to Ciaran, Rhianne and Shanagh, a wonderful gaga to Rudi, a loving daughter of the late Hamish and Flora Brogan, a caring sister to Janice and Terri, a much loved relative and a good friend to many.

Forever loved and missed.

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

PROSSER – GLADYS 1960 – 2023 (Kinlochleven, formerly Caol) Suddenly at home, on Sunday 31st December 2023, Gladys Prosser, aged 63 years, Leys Road, Kinlochleven.

Beloved wife of the late Forbes (Forby) Prosser, a treasured mum to Nan, Forbes (Forby), Matthew and Xander King, a wonderful granny and great granny to all her grandchildren, a caring sister to Helen and Neil, a much loved sister-in-law, auntie and a very good neighbour and friend. So greatly loved and missed.

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COULL – RICHARD 1964 – 2024 (North Ballachulish) Peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on Monday 22nd January 2024, Richard Coull (Coullie), aged 59 years, Lengarryn, Old Town, North Ballachulish.

Beloved husband to Sheena, a loving dad to Gary and Lauren, father-in-law to Andrew, a caring brother to David and Chris, a much loved grumps to Lennox, Xander, Mia and Ruby, a dearly loved relative and a good friend to so many. So greatly loved and missed.

ALLAN – JOHN 1948 – 2024 (Spean Bridge) Sadly, but peacefully, in the care of the Belford Hospital, Fort William, on Wednesday 3rd January 2024, John Martin Allan, aged 75 years, Corriechoille Road, Spean Bridge, by Fort William. Beloved husband of the late Theresa, a loving dad to Louise, Annette and Stephanie and father-in-law to Olly and Darren, a wonderful granda to Marie, Roslyn and Frances, Siobhan and Arienne and Christina, Kayleigh and Leanne, a proud great granda to Liam and Harry, a caring brother to Heather, Gail and the late Neil and Ray, a dearly loved relative and friend. Sadly missed.

MCDERMID – MARGARET 1938 – 2023 (Upper Achintore) Peacefully, in the care of the Belford Hospital, Fort William, on Monday 25th December 2023, Margaret McDermid, aged 85 years, Lochaber Road, Upper Achintore, Fort William (former owner of Inverlochy Shop).

Adored wife of John, a loving mum to Elaine, Iain and Colin, a wonderful granny to Andrew, Craig, Kieran and Aimee and a proud great granny to Phoebe, a much loved relative, neighbour and friend. So greatly loved and missed.

CAMERON MARGARET (MARLENE) 1941 - 2023 (Lochaline) Peacefully, in the care of the Belford Hospital, Fort William, on Sunday 31st December 2023, Margaret Aline Cameron, known to all as Marlene, aged 82 years. Beloved wife of the late Dougie, a loving mum to Scott and Annette, mother-in-law to Malky and Iona, proud granny to Darren and Adele and a doting Ga-Ga to Kian, a dearly loved neighbour and friend to many. Forever loved and remembered with a smile.

MACINDEOR – NANCY 1942 – 2023 (Caol) Peacefully at home, in her sleep, on Monday 22nd December 2023, Nancy MacIndeor, aged 81 years, Kilmallie Road, Caol. Fort William. A loving mum to Brian, Danny, Gordon and George, a wonderful granny and great granny to all her grandchildren, a much loved relative and friend.

Sadly missed.

LANDSBOROUGH – WILLIAM 2003 – 2023 (Caol) Sadly, on Thursday 28th December 2023, William Landsborough, aged 20 years, Torlundy Road, Caol, Fort William. A treasured son to Karen and the late George and step son to Stevie, a loving younger brother to Bob and Lisa, Tina and Chris, Tricia and Edd, a wonderful grandson to Peter, Pat, Etta and the late William, a much loved uncle, nephew, cousin and a very good friend to so many. Forever loved and missed.

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KIM’S HOODIE THE HEDGEHOG DIARY her doorstep in Spean Bridge with all kinds of animals which Many parents have been known they have found injured or to comment on a family dinner abandoned. They seek Kim’s “It’s like feeding time at the zoo”, help to make them well enough to return them to the wild. but for Kim Ferguson, this is actually often the case with her Over the years, she has put family of actual animals. in a tremendous effort saving many creatures at her own Well known for her kindness to all creatures and willingness cost. She has given them the time and love for a chance to to help them, Kim regularly has quite a collection of ‘house live a full, natural life. Some are beyond help, but she never guests’ in addition to her own stops trying for them. in need of care and attention if they are to survive.

Last year a tiny hedgehog With a widespread reputation, was brought to her in a very people often just turn up on poor condition and under Iain Ferguson

weight. Kim took him in and with professional advice started her own care package. His and her antics were followed by many on social media and here we have, in words and photographs, ‘The Diary of Hoodie the Hedgehog’.

“Hoodie, the smelly wee hedgehog, wasn’t impressed at getting his first bath but, believe me, he needed it. The water was black!

“These gorgeous wee creatures cannot survive hibernation unless they are at least 600g so we need to help

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them if they are found out and about in daylight hours “It has taken Hoodie 21 days to gain 100g and he is still half the weight he would need to hibernate but he is doing so well. A very happy chappy and still loving his wheel, haha.

“Look at my wee manny now!

That’s another 29 grams in six days. He is 15oz and thriving now he is well. Still only 425g and 600g is the minimum for hibernation but he is happy and content for now.

“December 16 2023: Officially a big boy now! 595.34g (1lb 6oz) big enough nearly to hibernate. Too late for him this year but good to know that when I release him in the spring, with the back up of me being able to feed him if he needs it, he can sleep the winter away next year.

“He is perfectly happy just now and still giving his wheel laldy, though he is quite big for it now. I had to screw it all back together this morning.”

Kim has many followers on Facebook who love to hear about ‘Hoodie’ and her own pet parrots, dog and cat, amongst the many other animals she rescues. From bat to pigeon, blackbird to bird of prey,

sparrow to starling, she gives all maximum attention and care.

To quote one of the comments on her page: “Coming onto your Facebook every couple of days is like watching a few episodes of David Attenborough. You are literally the female version of him. Your voice and videos are as relaxing as his too.

Absolutely marvellous.”

Kim also posted some information she found on Facebook highlighting the do’s and don’ts of finding a hedgehog in your garden.

“If you see me in your garden, give me food and water.

“Raw unsalted meat, ground meat. I also eat cat nuggets or canned meat but not fish. Don’t give me milk cause it gives me stomach issues and I will die of dehydration. I’m naive and as soon as I see milk I drink it.

“Don’t throw pesticides, don’t set traps. I’m definitely a danger to myself.

“In the garden I help you, because I feed on all the insects that attack your vegetables.

“If you see me on the street, don’t kill me.

“Help me cross the road safely

and find a field or den. My species is disappearing. Help me to survive.”

Help and support them as they are our wonderful forest elves.

Not wishing to end on a negative note, I appeal to everyone to please be kind to all animals.

The pigeon which Kim lovingly nursed back to health over several months was attacked and killed by young people, apparently ‘for fun’.

I for one cannot understand why anyone would want to commit such a shameful crime.

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Armando Barcenas

Iain Ferguson A few more images in our regular feature showcasing work by members of the awardwinning Fort William Photographic Society.

The group is open to everyone with an interest in photography and meets in the Salvation Army Hall every second Tuesday between 7pm and 9pm.

They also hold a Photo Walk every fourth Tuesday which gives people the chance to pair up and learn from experienced society members.

Nikki Fish

Claire Carter

John Weller

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for Highland ath-chuairtich airson na Gàidhealtachd

Brown bin permit holders are reminded that the service starts again from Friday 1st March 2024

4 23/2 still its Permable to l i ava rchase pu ine onl

Please check and remove any contamination that may be in your bin from the winter

Your current permit expires on 31st August 2024.

Collection calendars are available online. www.highland.gov.uk/gardenwaste recycle@highland.gov.uk Tel: 01349 886660 Lochaber Life Brown Bin Restart March 24.indd 1

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NEW CAREER FOR SHARON AFTER 23 YEARS WITH CANCER RESEARCH Iain Ferguson A job advert in the window of Fort William’s Cancer Research Shop caught the eye of Sharon Smith.

She decided to apply for the post and after almost 24 years from taking up the role of manager she is moving on to take up a new challenge.

However, challenge is nothing new to Sharon who has taken part in many fundraising activities, from dressing up in a tutu and dancing in Cameron Square to be being pushed along Fort William High Street in a bath full of beans and raising

money by pushing one of her other hobbies, swimming in Loch Linnhe, around four times a week.

These activities and her efforts in the shop have netted more than £3m for the charity during her time, helped by a strong, willing team of volunteers.

Her caring personality and willingness to listen to everyone have been major factors in the success of her job with Cancer Research and

will also be a great benefit in her new role with Key Housing in Fort William which she takes up at the beginning of February.

She said: “I have enjoyed every minute of my time with Cancer Research but I feel it is time to move on and try something different.

“I won’t be losing contact though and intend to carry on fundraising for them, which I don’t think I could ever give up”.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS IAIN PARK

JOHN DARE

1939 - 2023 Carol and Alyson would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for all the cards, flowers, and messages of sympathy after the recent loss of our dad. Thank you to all at McLellan Funeral Directors for their compassionate assistance with making arrangements and to McDonald Bros. Inverlochy for the beautiful flowers. We extend our thanks to all of the amazing staff at Invernevis House for the care they provided to our dad. A total of £600.00 was raised in Iain’s memory to be shared between the staff at Invernevis and Lochaber Men’s Shed.

1926 - 2023 Penelope would like to express her sincere thanks to everyone who sent kind messages of condolence following the loss of her dad John.

Special thanks to the staff at Abbeyfield who looked after John so well over the past years. Many thanks to Rev. Malcolm Kinnear for his guidance and comforting service and to all the staff at John McLellan Funeral Directors for their care and compassion.

PETER MCINNES 1929 - 2023 Alison would like to express her heartfelt gratitude for all the cards and messages of sympathy after the recent loss of her dad. Thank you to all at McLellan Funeral Directors for their compassionate assistance with making arrangements. Thanks is extended to all of the amazing staff at the Telford Centre, Fort Augustus for the care they provided to dad.

JOHN ANDERSON 1928 - 2023 Finlay would like to express his sincere gratitude for all the kind messages of support he has received since John’s passing. Thank you to McLellan Funeral Directors for their care and compassion and all their help in making the funeral arrangements. Thank you to Rev. Geoff Berry for the service and to everyone from The British Legion for their assistance on the day. £150.10 was raised in John’s memory and will be donated to Crossroads Carers, Fort William.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ISABELLA DEMPSTER

JOHN DOUGLAS THOMPSON

1940 - 2024 The Dempster family would like to thank everyone for all the love and support they have received following the death of Isabella. Thank you to all our family, friends, and neighbours for the many cards, mass cards, and flowers that we have received.

Thank you to the staff at The Mackintosh Centre and Abbeyfield who looked after Isabella so well.

We would also like to thank McDonalds Florists in Inverlochy for the beautiful floral tributes, Fr. Stan for his heartfelt mass, and to the staff at The Arisaig Hotel for the funeral tea. Special thanks are extended to John, Natalie, Peter, and Pete at McLellans Funeral Directors for their kindness and professionalism before, during, and after the funeral. Finally, thank you to everyone who paid their last respects to Isabella at the service. A total of £276.50 was raised in memory of Isabella and will be shared between St Mary’s R.C Church and Friends of the Mackintosh Centre.

1945 - 2023 Johns’ Family would like to thank everyone for their loving expressions of sympathy and for their memories of John. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Staff Teams at The Belford Hospital and Invernevis House Care Home where John died peacefully on Monday 4th December 2023. Maggie, Johns’ wife, wishes to acknowledge the thoughtful support given to her by the Young at Heart Walking Club throughout this last year of Johns’ life.

Our family values the rallying round that the mountain biking and road cycling communities have given to us over many years of adventures together. To Pete, Peter, John and Natalie - of McLellan Funeral Directors - we express our deep thanks for supporting us to carry out Johns’ final goodbyes. Thank you so much.

MAUREEN (MOE) GILLIES 1947 - 2024 Alistair, Mary, Arthur, Angus, Joe, and Ali would like to thank all our family, friends, and neighbours for the love and support shown to them since the passing of their beloved sister. Thank you to all our family, friends, and neighbours for the many cards, mass cards, and flowers that we have received. Our sincere gratitude is extended to all at Moss Park for the wonderful care given to Maureen over the last years. Thanks to Fr. David Connor for the mass, to McDonalds Florists in Inverlochy for the beautiful flowers, and to the Lochy in Coal for the funeral tea. We are incredibly grateful to all the staff at John McLellan Funeral Directors for their excellent care and professionalism before, during, and after the funeral, nothing was too much trouble for them. Finally, thanks again to everyone who attended the funeral and supported us on the day. A total of £340.40 was raised in memory of Maureen and will be donated to Moss Park Patient Welfare Fund.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS JOHN MCNAB

ANNE SKEA

1935 - 2024 John’s family would like to thank everyone who attended his funeral service in Lochaline. Thanks to Rev. Donald McCorkindale for his lovely service and to all the staff at John McLellans for their care, compassion, and support. We are also very grateful to McDonald Bros. Florists for the beautiful spray and to the staff at Lochaline Social Club for the funeral tea. A total of £160.08 was raised in memory of John and will be donated to The British Heart Foundation.

1931 - 2023 Anna and family would like to thank all of our neighbours, friends, and relatives for their cards, kind messages, and outpouring of support following the death of our beloved mum.

Thanks is extended to Lesley Simpson for the beautiful services and to all at John McLellan Funeral Directors for their care and compassion before, during, and after the funeral. A special thank you to all who attended and showed so much support on the day. A total of £472.81 was raised in memory of Anne to be shared between The Mackintosh Centre and Stella Nova Choir.

MAY SMITH 1935 - 2023 Eilidh and family would like to express their sincere thanks to all relatives and friends who sent messages of condolence following their recent loss. Many thanks to Rev. Euan Dodds for his comforting service and to all the staff at John McLellans for their care and support. A special thank you goes to McDonalds Florists in Inverlochy for their stunning floral tribute for mum. The support we have received from everyone at this very difficult time is very much appreciated.

RODDY MACKENZIE 1947 - 2023 Roddy’s family would like to thank everyone for all the love and support that they have received following his death.

Special thanks to all the staff at the Belford Hospital for their exceptional care. Thank you to all family, friends, neighbours, and the wider community for the many cards and kind messages that we have received. We would also like to thank John, Natalie, Peter, and Pete at McLellans for the care and professionalism shown to us at this difficult time. Thanks are extended to McDonald Bros. Inverlochy for the beautiful floral tributes.

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SIMON IS A TRUE RADIO STAR Iain Ferguson Nevis Radio Development and Sustainability Manager Simon Abberley has won second place in the Radio Star 2023 competition.

Radio Star is an international talent search platform for all things media incorporating TV and radio.

It has been running for seven years and helps new talent emerge and be seen by those within the media industry to promote new names and faces throughout the world.

Simon, who runs Nevis Radio, and hosts the Nevis Breakfast show entered as ‘something to do’ one afternoon and submitted a demo. The theme behind his demo was ‘Something you have passion for’ so he picked ‘Disc Jockying’ (DJ’ing), which he has been doing for more than 20 years. He is in regular demand across the highlands.

He sent his audition off to be judged and narrowed down and then found himself in the final 10 with a range of tasks ahead of him.

This eventually got him into the final five with a final challenge to claim the top stop

of the Radio Star winner of 2023. He created two videos, one based on the idea of teaching someone to mix on DJ equipment, the other to remix an 80s song and create a music video to perform the track.

These were scored against the other contestants via judges from all over the world in TV and radio with presenters, producers, programme controllers and educationalists including university lecturers in media.

His feedback resulted in being awarded second. The winner, Grace Nicoll, is also from Inverness and is currently

the voice of Heart at the weekends.

Simon said: “I only did it for a bit of fun and never thought I’d actually end up in a final. I guess I do take what I do for granted sometimes, but the feedback from the judges and the whole process has made me a bit more confident in what I’m doing and given me the thought of ‘go for it’ when trying to create something new.

“I am delighted to have come second and very proud of what I have produced to reach that spot. It has also given me some interesting feedback and ideas to work on in the future”.

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CHEST HEART & STROKE SCOTLAND – SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY Jo Cowan

­ Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS) is one of the country’s leading health charities, supporting the one in five people across the country living with chest, heart and stroke conditions and Long Covid to live life to the full.

Since January 2023, I have been working as the Community Healthcare Support Services Co-ordinator for Badenoch and Strathspey, Lochaber, Kyle and Lochalsh.

We know from speaking to people living with our conditions that they often leave hospital feeling frightened, alone and unable to access the services they desperately need. That’s where CHSS comes in.

My role is to support people with new diagnoses of chest, heart and stroke conditions who are leaving hospital, as well as those in the community who have been living with these conditions for a number of years.

I work closely with Fort William-based community health teams, local GP practices and Belford Hospital-based health professionals and currently support a number of people across Lochaber who have been referred through the NHS or by friends and family.

By providing advice, one-to-one, or group

support through our peer support groups, CHSS can support those living with chest, heart and stroke conditions and Long Covid to get back to doing things they love – spending time with friends and family or enjoying an activity or hobby they took part in before their diagnosis.

Connecting with others with similar lived experience through online or in person support groups within their own community can provide much-needed friendship, support and reassurance.

If you would like to learn more about Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland services or volunteering opportunities with the charity, visit www.chss.org.uk, contact vince. mclaughlin@chss.org.uk or call our National Advice Line

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happiness, but it can also bring disappointment or even pain.

I wonder if you are ever able February 14 is also the first day to take time out to wonder what life is all about. Many of us of the Christian season of Lent.

It’s a 40-day period that finishes are rushing about frenetically, on Easter Sunday, March 31. trying to make ends meet, trying to keep everyone happy. It’s a time when Christians can consider how they live and can Sometimes we never have look for ways we can be better. enough time to ask ‘Why?’.

None of us are perfect, which is February 14 is St Valentine’s Day. It’s a day when we hope for why we need God’s forgiveness. love, from someone we love, or He loves each one of us, even when we choose to ignore Him. to someone we hope to love.

During Lent, some people It’s a day that can bring great

give something up to remind them of the sacrifice Jesus gave when He allowed the Romans to execute Him on the Cross.

Some people choose to do something positive for Lent and perhaps to carry that on afterwards too.

On February 14, we look for love, and that’s what Jesus offers each of us.

That’s what Easter was all about.

Check it out through a Church fellowship near you.

Colourful costumes, lots of laughter and different fundraising activities marked Red Nose Day at Ballachulish Primary School.

Photograph: Iain Ferguson, The Write Image.

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Michael J Kennedy

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YOUNG BOXERS SKIP TO SCOTTISH CHAMPIONSHIP SUCCESS Iain Ferguson The high cost of travel is an issue facing almost every sports club in Lochaber. Whether it be a few miles or a few hundred, the challenge of participating begins before even leaving the area by having to find the money to pay for transport.

Even as a registered charity, there is almost no funding available for things like transport and having to stay over to take part in events, no matter how big or important they are.

Given these facts and with two major championships coming up which are always held in the Ravenscraig Sports Centre in Hamilton, members of Lochaber Phoenix Boxing Club thought they would tackle

this problem as well as building fitness for the coming bouts against the best in Scotland.

A sponsored skip seemed the ideal solution, with carded boxers (those registered with national governing body Boxing Scotland) coaches and a few regular attenders literally jumping in the ring over a period of 12 hours.

Live video feeds and photographs on social media kept sponsors and donors informed of its progress as each of the skippers took their turn in the ring.

The cost of attending the championships can be more than £1,300 for each weekend, taking into account travel, accommodation for two nights per weekend, food and entry

fees, none of which are refunded - as in some other sports to the clubs who have to travel a distance to compete.

Lochaber Phoenix has always met the costs from funds so that no-one is disadvantaged by not being able to contribute.

However, the costs of keeping the club open with increased rent, electricity and other costs means this is becoming almost impossible.

Luckily, thanks to the generosity of individuals and local businesses, more than £3,000 was raised by the event, which left the young athletes and club officials tired but happy - happier still when in the first weekend of the championships, boxers brought home two gold and two silver medals.

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SHINTY SEASON RE-STARTS

Iain Ferguson Last year Ferguson Transport and Shipping sponsored shinty’s Balliemore Cup competition with group managing director Alasdair Ferguson, who also happens to be manager of Lochaber Camanachd, quipping that it had been a long time since his team had won it.

Well, not only did his team go on to win the trophy in a thrilling cup final against Kilmallie Shinty Club in a carnival atmosphere on a beautiful summer’s day, but they also won the league and gained promotion to the MOWI Premiership where they will play from the start of the new season this month.

Ferguson Transport and Shipping is once again sponsoring the Balliemore Cup, but having moved up a division are ineligible to take part in the contest, setting their eyes instead on the much vaunted Camanachd Cup. However, Fort William and Kilmallie shinty clubs remain in the MOWI First Division, so with some skilful play could well end up facing each other in the final.

The first league matches of 2024 are on March 2 and will see Lochaber return to the

MOWI Premiership with a home match against Caberfeidh.

In the MOWI National Division, Fort William face Col Glen in an away tie. Kilmallie are away to Beauly for their first outing.

Details on these, the second teams and the many other teams around the area, such as Ardnamurchan, Invergarry and Ballachulish, can be found on the Camanachd Association website.

If you can, please get along and give them your support.

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