Lochaber Life #336 October 2021

At the heart of your community Distillery picture search Glencoe Turf House

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Fort William Festive Fund

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An Dàmhair

Beatha Lochabair

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October 2021 – Issue 336

Kirsty’s Kids fully operational Lochaber Life October 2021.indd 1

ore s m e to

m ree ho es t 0 ess hou 0 e v 0 i l n ug , De 12 usi thro d n b h an tha nd ont ber a ry m cha ond e Lo ey ev b f red

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Ardrhu House A little bit of magic and a whole lot of luxury

Images: Paul Boyle

Looking for something special?

Why not treat yourself by booking into Ardrhu House to enjoy decadent fine dining whilst taking in the panoramic views of Loch Linnhe?

Imagine long afternoons sipping on your favourite cocktail, whilst soaking up the beautiful view from our garden or catch up on those cancelled celebrations and treat yourself, friends and

Alongside our signature spa packages, Ardrhu House serves an eclectic à la carte lunch and a threecourse dinner menu for £45 pp.

Our new menu includes some mouthwatering creative and delicious dishes.

This month we will be offering 10% off your total spend with us (mention Lochaber Life when booking your table).

Each day, limited places are available for dinner for nonresidents in an intimate setting inside or in one of the stunning outdoor domes, which feel cosy and offer protection from the ubiquitous midges.

treatment of your choice, ending with our delicious cream tea.

The perfect treat for a special occasion:

family to a visit to Ardrhu House.

Only 10 minutes from Fort William.

Luxury Spa Days Escape and sink into relaxation with one of our luxury spa days, where you will leave feeling revitalised, pampered and completely recharged.

We have a special SPA offer on this month! £75 for one, £140 for two, this includes the use of the full spa facilities and a 45-minute

Experience our wonderful Champagne Afternoon Tea, previously only offered on spa days, now available for all guests at £27 for one, £50 for two.

Group visits are welcome and must be booked in advance.

Gift Vouchers are available for dining or the spa, without an expiry date. The perfect gift for someone who has it all!

For the full story on Ardrhu House’s magic touch, to design your Spa la Carte experience or to have a look at everything we have to offer visit www. ardrhuhouse.com

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06 22 Beatha Lochabair

contents

30 Lochaber Food Bank

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Distillery picture appeal

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Reader’s picture

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Recipe

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Outside in October

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St. Bride’s Nursery

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Kirsty’s Kids restored

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Glencoe Turf House

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FRONT PAGE PHOTOGRAPH:

Young Man and his Dog

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Jan and John Bryden, founders of Kirsty’s Kids, who have worked hard for over a year to repair massive flood damage.

Photograph: Iain Ferguson, alba.photos

Community Connections

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Thought for the month

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15 years ago

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Fort William Festive Fund

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Where in Lochaber?

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Fraser’s Field

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GAINING AN HOUR 2021 is fairly galloping on, with colder weather and longer nights as we move into winter. At the very end of this month please remember that the clocks go back by one hour, and so, for a day at least, giving an extra hour to rest. What is in this issue of Lochaber Life? A few requests for your help – Lochaber food bank fulfil a great need all year round and really need your donations, Ben Nevis Distillery staff are putting together a storyboard of their history and are looking for any pictures which can assist in telling it.

Our Reader’s picture poses a question as to the history of a gravestone and in Community Connections your biking stories are being sought. Of course we have the usual question in the final pages with Where in Lochaber?.

Hope you can provide assistance with some of these. Thanks. Tapadh leat.

Iain

EDITORIAL Iain Ferguson Email: iainpics@ googlemail.com

ADVERTISING Nicky Murphy Email: nmurphy@ wyvexmedia.co.uk

PRODUCTION Kevin McCubbin Email: kmccubbin@ wyvexmedia.co.uk

Published by Wyvex Media Limited Tel: 01397 703003 Website: www.obantimes.co.uk We hope to publish a wide range of interests and opinions. However, our contributors’ views are not necessarily our own. Material in Lochaber Life must not be reproduced without our written consent or that of the copyright owner. A statement of our terms and conditions for accepting advertisements is available on request. Published by Wyvex Media Ltd.

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YEAR ROUND FOOD BANK Iain Ferguson Unfortunately, for some people food banks are needed all year round and not just at Christmas.

Perhaps to emphasise this, Lochaber Food Bank now marks 10 years of operation in the area.

Numbers do go up and down, but Lochaber Food Bank, based at Aird’s Crossing in Fort William, regularly supports at least 100 people and their families every week. There is often a misconception that using a food bank means that someone is out of work and therefore can’t support themselves, but that is certainly not the case.

These days more and more people who hold down full-time or part-time jobs find that they are just not earning enough to pay all their bills and feed themselves and their families.

Fortunately many businesses and individuals in the community help through donations of goods and money, in addition to the volunteers who give up their time to run the food bank and make sure it is there when people need it.

Manager Alex McConachie was an early volunteer who, due to experience of similar organisations in urban areas came along to help ‘for a few weeks’. Ten years on, he is still volunteering to help people, now in the role of manager.

This dedication also applies to the other volunteers whose commitment is total and who

Josh Taylor raised £120 for Lochaber Food Bank with a show in his back garden.

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make time to ensure that they not only serve their clients with a warm welcome, but also that the shelves are stocked with the items that people need and can actually make use of.

If you are fortunate enough not to need the services of the food bank you still have an important role to play in helping them provide for those that do. The list of items is often very basic and no different to what most people would buy on a regular shopping trip, such as tinned food – soup, meat, vegetables, bread, milk (UHT is best as people may not have a fridge), diluting juice, toilet rolls, kitchen roll, soap, shampoo, house cleaning materials, even batteries and perhaps some chocolates or sweets.

One tip is that when you are buying one of these products for yourself, get another, or take advantage of the buy one get one free offers and donate one to the food bank. Many local shops and supermarkets now have areas to place your donation as you leave the store, or even pre-packed food bank bags of different values which you can pick up, pay for and put into the donation point – all very easy and only takes a few seconds of your time to help others.

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‘Leaf’ your worries at the door...

Shut out the draught this autumn with new Cairngorm windows and doors Visit our website for more home improvements info@cairngormgroup.co.uk www.cairngormgroup.co.uk Inverness | Elgin | Thurso

Buy Now, Pay Later in 2022!

Credit is subject to application and status. Terms and conditions apply.

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OLD PHOTOGRAPHS OF BEN NEVIS DISTILLERY The history of Ben Nevis Distillery and its whisky is being traced in a storyboard to be located in the newly revamped visitor centre – and staff are appealing for your help.

While they already have a number of photographs showing the distillery over the years, they would love to add general shots of the buildings, events and products that may have been taken by employees or visitors as a memory for themselves.

Visitor Centre Manager Brian Hume said: “We would be really interested to see pictures people have from

over the years from its opening, right through to the present day, including 1950s, 60s, 70s, and 80s – anything connected to the distillery.”

If you think you may have something of interest, please contact Brian on 01397 700200 or by email on tours@bennevisdistillery.com

Martin Briscoe photographed this gravestone in Kilmallie Old Cemetery, but despite much research can find out very little about it. If you can help please send LL an email.

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Your Solicitors & Estate Agents

Established as one of the leading estate agency and legal firms in the west of Scotland

Are you looking to buy or sell a property?

Do you need quality legal advice?

For current property lis�ngs and more informa�on Visit our website at www.macarthurstewart.co.uk or pop into our branch at 87 High Street, Fort William, PH33 6DG Call. 01397 702455 Fax. 01397 705949 fortwilliam@macarthurstewart.co.uk Estate agency fee is at 1% with no added VAT

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• METHOD •

ROWAN JELLY

Gather the berries when they are almost ripe.

Wash them and put in a preserving pan with sufficient water to cover them.

A different sort of recipe this month, inspired by the bumper crops of Rowan berries weighing down the trees across Lochaber. Using them as a source of nutri�on was quite common in the past, although the tart jelly is very rarely found today, but is some�mes used by connoisseurs of game.

Boil until soft and strain the liquid through a muslin bag.

This recipe comes from a 1930s cook book, so may require a bit of individual ‘interpreta�on’.

Leave to cool and set.

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Allow 1lb (half kilogram) of sugar to every pint (1/2 litre) of juice, and boil the latter with the sugar for half an hour, skimming carefully.

Apple juice added to the rowans is a decided improvement. To every pound (1/2 litre) of rowan juice allow a pound (1/2 litre) of apple juice, adding sugar to the latter – a pound to a pint.

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OUTSIDE IN OCTOBER Iain Ferguson It may be cold and wet (well, it usually is at the time of year) but if you get the chance get outside nature is truly bursting with life this month.

Very recently, when the house was silent as I went to bed, I was very concerned by a howling animal somewhere nearby. Thinking it may be in distress I had a good look around in the direction of the sound, shone a torch, but could see nothing. It was very still and eventually it dawned on me that it was probably a stag bellowing out as rutting season is here.

As highlighted in previous editions, give rutting stags a wide berth as they are no longer the human avoiding moor dwellers you may be used to and could see you as a

threat to their territory.

Now that ground cover is dying back there will be many, often colourful toadstools and mushrooms which will spring into life to fill the space.

Many are pretty, some may be poisonous, so look but don’t touch and unless your are an accomplished expert, certainly don’t eat!

Another animal I recently encountered in the vicinity of my house was an owl, again I couldn’t see it in the half light, but its haunting sound echoed through the dank, hanging mist.

Many of the native trees commonly found around Lochaber will now be heavy with berries or seeds of some form encapsulated in unique dispersion packages, such as sycamore ‘wings’, the hard and

spiky cases of horse chestnuts or pods on gorse bushes.

There are many more, so why not make a list and go for a walk to see how many you can find?.

Looking forward to next year, now is the time to plant spring bulbs which are easy to find in the shops. Daffodils, crocus, hyacinth, snowdrops, all brighten up the gardens or pots in the early months on the new year. One of my own favourites for many years has been the paper white narcissi, of which indoor varieties can flower for Christmas (there’s that word again), but in recent years these have been all but impossible to find!

Regardless of weather, join and enjoy nature at this time if year if and when you can. I will.

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Develop your leadership skills right here in Lochaber!

When it comes to business success, we know it’s all about leadership. But when you live and work in That’s why Lochaber Chamber has developed the ‘One Lochaber Leadership Programme’ to provide a locally developed and locally delivered leadership course. This one-year course is designed to fit in with work and successful delegates receive a Chartered Management Institute (CMI) Level 5 Award in Leadership and Management.

There are many benefits of the One Lochaber Leadership Programme - it’s flexible and easy to fit in with work, the small group style creates a friendly, informal learning

environment with personal attention from tutors; plus there’s no expensive and time-consuming travel and accommodation costs.

Marina Marin (pictured), Supply Chain Controller at BSW Timber, is a recent graduate of the Programme. Marina has worked in BSW’s logistics team for five years and she jumped at the chance to develop her

understanding of managing and leading teams, saying: “The One Lochaber Leadership Programme has been a great opportunity. The content was wide, structured, and applicable to all sorts of working environments. I would certainly recommend this program to others and I would encourage businesses to enrol their employees.”

If you or a member of your team would like to join the next One Lochaber Leadership Programme, please visit www.lochaberchamber. co.uk or contact Wendy Reid, Skills for Work Manager, on 07539142763 or email wendy. reid@lochaberchamber.co.uk.

OPEN Y O GA FO R H E ALTHY B ACKS NLP, CBT, L IFE C O ACHIN G F O O D I N TO LE RAN CE T E S TIN G H E RBAL M E DICIN E C O UN S E LLIN G O S TE O PATHY P HYS IO THE RAPY M AS S AGE , R E FLE XO LO GY P O DIATRY C ALL: 0 1 3 9 7 7 0 2 2 5 7 E : INFO@ LOCHABERCLINIC. CO. UK W : WWW. LOCHABERCLINIC. CO. UK

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In Loving Memory of JOHN MACMILLAN 1950 – 2021 (Acharacle) Peacefully at home, surrounded by his loved ones, on Friday 27th August 2021, John Timothy MacMillan, aged 71 years, Rowanmere, Acharacle, a professional diver in the Seafish Industry Authority, Ardtoe and a long-serving Watch Manager at Acharacle Fire Station. A devoted husband to Karen, a much-loved dad to Jack and Lucy, a caring brother, uncle, colleague, neighbour and friend to many.

In Loving Memory of CHRISSIE MORRISON 1927 – 2021 (Caol) Peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family on Thursday 2nd September 2021, Chrissie Ann Morrison, aged 94 years, Glenkingie Street, Caol, Fort William (formerly from Grosebay, Isle of Harris). Well remembered for her time working in William Lows, Fort William. A loving mum to John, Jennifer and Linda, a wonderful granny to Jamie, Greig, Claire, Debbie, Kirsty and GG to Innes and Emily, a caring relative, neighbour and friend.

In Loving Memory of HELEN MACCOLL 1969 – 2021 (Spean Bridge) Sadly, but peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday 31st August 2021, Helen Ann MacColl, aged 52 years, Insh Farm, Spean Bridge, a long serving and much-loved employee with Russell’s Bistro, Spean Bridge. A beloved wife to Hugh, a much-loved mum to Ewen and Calum, a loving auntie and a caring relative, colleague, neighbour and a very good friend to many.

In Loving Memory of CATHERINE SCOTT 1958 – 2021 (Kinlochleven) Suddenly at the Belford Hospital on Tuesday 31st August 2021, Catherine Sarah Scott, aged 63 years, Heatherlea Court, Kinlochleven. A muchloved wife to James, a loving mum to Linda, Jamie and Neil, a wonderful sister and granny to all her grandchildren, a caring auntie, neighbour and friend to many.

MANSON & MACBEATH FUNERAL DIRECTORS

10 Ba�lefield Crescent, Inverlochy, Fort William PH33 6NB Tel (24 Hour): 01397 701110 www.mansonandmacbeath.co.uk

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In Loving Memory of CALUM MACINTYRE 1925 – 2021 (Caol) Peacefully, in the loving care of Highview Care Home, Inverness, on Thursday 2nd September 2021, aged 96 years, Malcolm MacIntyre (Calum), formerly of Kilmallie Road, Caol, Fort William. A devoted husband to the late Mary, a much-loved dad to Chrissie and the late Kenneth and Morag, a loving father-in-law to Angus, Vera and Iain, a wonderful grandpa to Donald and Calum Ruaridh and great-grandpa to Mac, so dearly loved by Kathryn and Tanya, a caring brother, relative and friend. RIP.

In Loving Memory of ELIZABETH (LIZ) DAWES 1976 – 2021 (Acharacle) Liz was a muchloved member of the Ardnamurchan community for the past 10 years. Whilst her sudden loss has saddened many, a beautiful service celebrating Liz’s life was held in Acharacle on Saturday 24th July. Alasdair, Parker and Roscoe are deeply thankful for all the love and support received, which has helped them through this difficult time. Liz adored children, wildlife and her local community. Funds are being raised to create a memorial project aimed at nurturing and inspiring young children’s appreciation of our amazing natural environment. Donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ lizdawes2021

A Celebration of the Life of ALEXANDER SANDILANDS 1942 –2020 (South Laggan) A memorial service to celebrate the life of Mr Alexander Sandilands (South Laggan) is to be held in Glengarry Parish Church on Thursday 21 October at 2pm. Refreshments will be provided afterwards in Glengarry Community Hall to which all are warmly welcome.

In Loving Memory of JACQUELINE TAYLOR 1957 – 2021 (Onich) Peacefully at home, surrounded by her loved ones, on Saturday 21st August 2021, Jacqueline Ann Taylor, aged 64 years, Onich Tea Room, Onich,

by Fort William. A loving wife to Lawson, a muchloved mum to James and Christian, a wonderful grandma to Lily, a caring relative, neighbour and friend. So greatly missed.

In Loving Memory of BOBBY MACLEOD 1931 – 2021 (Fort William) Peacefully, in the care of The Bellfield Centre, Stirling on Friday 20th August 2021, Robert Samuel MacLeod (Bobby), aged 90 years, formerly of Seaview Terrace, Fort William, well-known self-employed slater and plasterer (R.S MacLeod Slater & Plasterer), a stalwart and chieftain of Fort William Shinty Club.

An adored dad to Fiona, a much-loved father-in-law to Andy, a wonderful papa to Jack, a caring relative and a well-liked friend to so many. Sadly missed.

In Loving Memory of DONALD MCPHERSON 1947 – 2021 (Caol) Peacefully at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Glasgow on Thursday 19th August 2021, Donald McPherson, aged 74 years, Banavie Road, Caol, Fort William, former employee at the Pulp & Paper Mill, Corpach.

A beloved husband to Alison, a much-loved dad to Donna and Ann, a wonderful grandad to Finlay, Harris, Kirsty, Lucas and Iris, a caring relative, neighbour and friend. RIP.

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In Loving Memory of CALUM MACALISTER 1929 – 2021 (Corpach) Peacefully, in the loving care of Abbeyfield Care Home, Ballachulish, on Friday 13th August 2021, Calum MacAlister, aged 92 years, Corpach, Fort William, former Geography Teacher at Lochaber High School. A loving husband and a much-loved dad to Donald, Archie, Hector, Bridget and the late Jane and Alister, a wonderful papa and great papa to all his grandchildren, a caring relative, neighbour and friend. RIP.

In Loving Memory of JAMIE BALL 1975 – 2021 (Lochyside) Suddenly, at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, on Sunday 8th August 2021, James Maxwell Ball (Jamie), aged 45 years, Lochyside, Fort William, long-term Skipper of the Souters Lass, Fort William and former partner at Allround Signs, Corpach. A loving husband to Katie, an adored dad to Josie and Kirsty, a treasured son to Brian and Anne and son-in-law to Bob and Alison, a wonderful uncle to Arwyn and Alden, a caring brother-in-law, relative, neighbour, colleague and a well-respected friend to so many. Greatly missed.

In Loving Memory of ALEXANDRA HOWIESON 1941 – 2021 (Upper Achintore) Suddenly and unexpectedly at home on Sunday 1st August 2021, Alexandra Jane Howieson (Sandra), aged 80 years, Ross Place, Upper Achintore, Fort William, long-serving employee at Belford Hospital, Fort William. A loving wife to the late William Howieson (Billy), a muchloved sister, sister-in-law, aunt, neighbour and friend to many.

In Loving Memory of KATIE MAITLAND 1936 – 2021 (Ardgour) Peacefully in the wonderful care of Dail Mhor House, Strontian, on Sunday 8th August 2021, Katie Maitland, aged 85 years, St. Monance, North Corran, Ardgour. A beloved wife to John, a much-loved mum to Peter, Johnny and George, a wonderful granny and great granny to all her grandchildren, a caring relative, neighbour and friend to many.

MANSON & MACBEATH FUNERAL DIRECTORS

10 Ba�lefield Crescent, Inverlochy, Fort William PH33 6NB Tel (24 Hour): 01397 701110 www.mansonandmacbeath.co.uk

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In Loving Memory of JOSEPH (JOE) SMITH 1994 – 2021 (Fort William) Taken suddenly at home on the morning of Sunday 8th August 2021, Joseph Ian Smith (Joe), aged 26 years. A beloved son to Ian and the late Ann, a much-loved brother to Thomas, Patrick, Luke, Dominic and Natalie, a loving uncle, nephew and a good friend to many.

In Loving Memory of VERA SPARKS 1927 - 2021 (Fort William) Peacefully in the excellent care of Invernevis House on Wednesday 11th August, Vera Clara Sparks, aged 94 years. A much-loved Mum to Alan, who will be sadly missed by him and the wider family.

In Loving Memory of PADDY MACPHERSON 1950 – 2021 (Australia/Fort William) Peacefully in Perth, Australia, on Tuesday 13th July 2021, Alexander Patrick Macpherson, known as Paddy, aged 71 years.

A loving husband to Annemarie, a much-loved dad to Laura and the late Andrew, a wonderful grandpa to his grandchildren, a caring brother, uncle, cousin, relative and a friend to many. RIP.

In Loving Memory of TERRY CONNELL 1960 – 2021 (Kinlochleven) Suddenly, but peacefully in his sleep, on Wednesday 4th August 2021, James Terrance Connell (Terry), aged 61 years, Mamore Road, Kinlochleven, a well-liked and respected employee with Lochaber, Care and Repair. A devoted husband to the late Tracey, a muchloved brother, a caring relative, neighbour, colleague and friend to many. Together again with Tracey.

In Loving Memory of ANNE MACKINNON 1944 – 2021 (Claggan) Peacefully, surrounded by her loving family at Moss Park Care Home, on Tuesday 10th August 2021, Anne MacKinnon (nèe Sinclair), aged 76 years, Grant Place, Claggan, former Bus Conductress with MacBrayne Buses, Manager at Claggan Shop and latterly Assistant at Marshall & Pearson until her retirement.

A devoted wife to Charlie, a much-loved mum to Fiona and Gavin, a loving granny to Aimee and Lucie, a caring sister, auntie and a friend to many.

RIP.

In Loving Memory of HECTOR MACASKILL 1934 – 2021 (Fort William) Peacefully at Belford Hospital, Fort William on Saturday 7th August 2021, Hector MacAskill, aged 86 years, Tweeddale Apartments, Fort William High Street. Former barman in Fort William, well-known for his time working at The Cromag, affectionally known as “Hector’s House”. A loving partner to the late Olga, a much-loved dad to Hector and Stephen, a wonderful grandad to all his grandchildren, a caring relative and friend to many.

RIP.

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ST BRIDE’S NURSERY PREPARE FOR RAINBOW CHARITY WALK Iain Ferguson Children of St. Bride’s Nursery in Onich will be marching out in style to take part in a walk supporting the Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS) charity in their Rainbow Walk event.

The pre-school age youngsters and staff will be dressed in colourful clothes to recognise the importance of children’s hospices around Scotland. One of the themes of the Rainbow Walk is wearing bright clothes so the children will be wearing their lovely new outdoor gear, kindly donated by the Nether Lochaber Community Council, which protect the children from the best and worst of the Lochaber weather.

Their stripy, red and white, highly visual all-weather clothing is also adaptable for

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walks on the beach, into the woods and into the nursery’s own specially designed garden.

St Bride’s Nursery sits in the heart of the Nether

Lochaber community and enrols children between the ages of 3-5 from the wider Ballachulish area and also has the capacity to accept children from Fort William, Ardgour and Argyll under the Scottish Government Early Education and Care,1140 hours entitlement.

The nursery has a fully resourced outdoor learning area and garden, with a bright, airy indoor space and has regular visits from their friends in the primary school with whom they share learning experiences across the Early Years classroom.

Staff and children also

love having visitors to the nursery and before Covid-19 restrictions came into force had regular visits from senior members of the community who would come in to read stories and share experiences with the children.

This has always been a very popular activity and a great opportunity to meet people, while learning interesting information about the community and listening to stories delivered in different ways.

When Covid restrictions finally come to an end the children hope that once again they will be able to welcome friends and neighbours back into the nursery.

Head Teacher of St. Bride’s Nursery and Primary and Glencoe Primary School, Malcolm McGregor said: “The children are really excited about taking part in the walk and helping CHAS, which does really important work.

‘All who attend St Bride’s Nursery thrive in our warm, nurturing environment and benefit from the high quality experiences. They can’t wait to welcome visitors back in to speak with them.”

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COTTAGES & CASTLES With the rollercoaster that the travel industry has faced since March 2020, it is hardly surprising that the way we holiday has changed immeasurably. The domestic holiday market has surged in the last 18 months as travellers have started to recognise the world of wonders that they have right on their doorstep, and holidaycottages.co.uk has seen huge rises in the demand for UK holiday properties.

Quality self-catering holiday homes across the UK

Interested in letting your property?

Call us on 0800 304 7199

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For over 30 years, holidaycottages.co.uk has been offering quality, UK accommodation, but the last 12 months have seen unprecedented demand. Furthermore, this staycation trend has also highlighted Scotland as an ideal destination with the diversity and drama of landscapes that so many guests are looking for.

A country of great contrasts, Scotland is a place of stark beauty, adventure and pure escapism, so it is no wonder that as more people are choosing to holiday in Britain, Scotland is welcoming tourists in their droves.

Bookings across our network of brands have soared, including on our dedicated Scottish brand, Cottages & Castles, home to more than 650 of the finest holiday cottages in Scotland.

Lifestyle brands such as Canine Cottages have also experienced increased demand as more holidaymakers are choosing to take their dog on holiday too.

New owners recently joining us are also getting off to a flying start. For example, The Wee Yin, a charming romantic retreat in Arrochar, and Balgonie Retreat, a great house close to West Linton, secured 22 and 21 bookings respectively within the first 28 days of being live on our site.

Now, with more than 7,000 quality properties in our portfolio, we are going from strength to strength. We want guests and owners to delight in the beauty of the British Isles and make the most of this place we call home. With the natural raw beauty of Scotland, it’s no wonder that more and more guests are discovering its magic.

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Compensation available for miss-sold Provident loans.

If you had a loan with Provident between 6th April 2007 and 17th December 2020 you could make a claim for compensation if you think you were miss -sold.

At a court hearing on 30 July 2021Provident’s “Scheme of Arrangement” was approved because Provident could not afford to pay full refunds to customers who were winning complaints. The loans came from four different brands: Provident, Satsuma Payday Loans, Greenwood and Glo. To make a claim, set up an account on the scheme portal. This needs your Scheme ID number – this will be on emails and letters you may have been sent.

Your name has to be spelled the way Provident has it on their record. (If you weren’t sent a letter or email, phone Provident on 0800 056 8936, or email soa@provident. co.uk) If you had 2 accounts with Provident you’ll want both your accounts to be looked at as a single account, not 2 separate ones, as this may

Lochaber

mean you get a larger refund.

You can make a new claim now if you had complained before and been rejected.

Key Points to remember: 1. Provident didn’t make good affordability checks so a lot of people should get refunds.

2. The more loans, the larger they were or the worse your situation, the better your chance of getting a refund.

3. You will only get a percentage of the “proper” refund, but this may still be hundreds of pounds. And your credit record will be cleaned.

4. You can claim if you still have a loan, including if the loan was sold to a debt collector.

5. You only have 6 months to make a claim for Provident or Satsuma loans. Do it now so there is no chance of missing the deadline!

DURING OPENING HOURS 10am-4pm, TELEPHONE 01397 705311 Message can be left EMAIL – adviser@lochabercab.casonline.org.uk

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KIRSTY’S KIDS RISES FROM THE FLOODS Iain Ferguson Over a year ago, a powerful flash flood devastated the Lochailort home of Jan and John Bryden, also sweeping away most of the facilities built in its grounds for the charity, Kirsty’s Kids.

The charity was founded in memory of their 19-year-old daughter Kirsty who lost her life in a car accident just minutes from home. She loved children and had already spent time caring for sick young people in Scotland and Mozambique while also working with her Dad in their business of drying and repairing flood damaged properties.

Former policeman John then set off around the world on Kirsty’s little motorcycle, raising £100,000 to get the charity started, assisted by police forces in the various countries he visited.

From there, Kirsty’s Kids grew into an organisation offering respite care to children and

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their families with no effort spared in creating a safe, entertaining and active family environment designed to help those in need of some ‘time out’ from their everyday life.

Jan and John even moved into their converted garage so their house could be given over to visiting families.

Now, after a year of very hard work, Kirsty’s Kids is back in full operation with almost complete restoration of the

buildings and unique features which were wiped out by the flood.

Helped by a determined team of volunteers working with the couple, the mammoth effort is all but complete. This included cleaning out and drying the house which was flooded to a depth of two feet, reconstructing the greenhouse, repairing other outbuildings housing workshops and comfy retreats, as well as restoring all of the wheelchair-friendly pathways which were washed away by the force of water and rocks.

The model village and radio controlled railway which could be followed and operated by someone in a wheelchair has also been completely reinstated. Luckily, some fairly unique and expensive pieces of equipment such as the ‘Hexhog’ escaped major damage. This is a six-wheeled, electrically driven, all-terrain vehicle in which people confined to a wheelchair can

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strap themselves into and take off into rough countryside.

Specially built for Kirsty’s Kids there are only a few others in the whole world.

Until the flood the charity had welcomed more than 200 children and their families to Lochailort, organising days out and activities for them, alongside learning new skills and crafts to boost their confidence, mental and physical abilities.

Despite the massive destruction which also undermined and closed the West Highland railway line which runs behind their property, Jan and John had hoped to provide some form of care as soon as basic repairs could be completed. However, Covid restrictions prevented this happening.

John said: “The flooding washed away almost everything

and at the time we really didn’t know how long it would take to get everything restored, but we never gave up and here we are back in operation.

“We never stopped working on repairs and a team of

volunteers played a big role in getting things back to normal.

Even during Covid a couple from Manchester made us their ‘bubble’ and spent weeks here clearing up and building. There are some really nice people out there.”

As always with Kirtsy’s Kids, work is ongoing to improve

and extend their services, but to mark the reopening an open day was held to show what had been achieved and the many opportunities provided to families by the charity.

Unfortunately, this coincided with one of the wettest days of the whole summer, but this did not dampen the spirits of anyone who came along to help and to see what was being offered.

Jan said: “This is all about the children who need help. It is fantastic to see them enjoying their time here, learning new things and just having some time to relax, away from the pressures of everyday life and we will continue to make this happen.”

More details on Kirsty’s Kids and how to make a donation can be found on the Social Media pages.

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13/09/2021 09:52:56

Glencoe Turf house taking shape Iain Ferguson The past is quite literally coming to life at the National Trust for Scotland Glencoe Visitor Centre as a replica 17th-century turf house ‘grows’ out of its surroundings.

Modelled on ruins sited further down the Glen, precise measurements were taken and a detailed study made to ensure the authenticity of the ‘new’ build, right down to ensuring that it sits in the same alignment as homes of that period.

Work started in the spring, with archaeologists, crafts people in traditional building techniques and volunteers coming together to make up for time lost to Covid.

Stage one was to prepare the ground and raise the sturdy timber cruck (‘A’ shaped) frame, which was completed entirely by hand, and which required people power, a hand winch and a gin pole. An exceptional level of craftsmanship by the joiner saw hundreds of complicated joints held in place with 3,500 hand-whittled wooden pegs.

Once this structure was solid, a stone base wall was laid and the green woodworker started on the continuous weave of the wattle walls, using 3,000

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locally harvested, flexible hazel wands passed in and out of upright posts every 40cm. They provided the ‘creel’ basket-like

interior framework.

Turf builders began cutting and laying chunky blocks to construct the 80cm thick exterior walls laid in an intricate herringbone pattern to offer maximum strength and stability. All of of this material came from an area just yards from the doorstep Mud masons mixed up a fabulous concoction of Glencoe cow manure, straw and clay to create the ‘daub’ which they applied to an internal partition wall which divides the building between a living room for the humans and a byre for livestock.

A stone floor was also pieced together like a giant mosaic of irregularly formed shapes.

With the walls complete the carpenter began work on the 185 timber roof cabers which required the turf walls to be built up to and constructed around them – a complicated team effort. Thin layers of turf divot were then laid as a base for the long wiry heather thatch.

Hopefully open to the public next spring, the project has also been an opportunity to experiment with fast-vanishing traditional building craft skills that would once have been widespread in communities across the West Highlands and Islands.

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13/09/2021 09:53:00

YOUNG MAN AND HIS DOG Iain Ferguson Eighteen-year-old Freddy Fulford from Glenloy has become one the youngest sheepdog handlers ever to join the Scottish National Team.

Freddy and his dog Nelly were officially confirmed as team members after a recent trials event held in Thurso, competing against150 of Scotland’s very best handlers.

A relative newcomer, Freddy only started sheepdog handling three years ago, with guidance and advice from experienced farmers around his home in developing what is obviously a natural talent.

National Trials are organised by the International Sheep Dog Society (ISDS) each summer in Scotland England, Ireland and Wales where handlers compete to represent their country as one of only 15 members and one reserve.

The Scottish National event took place over three days with fierce competition for a coveted place. At the end of the third day’s competition, there was also a runoff between the overall

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winners from each day to find the overall Scottish Champion and the Scottish team captain.

Freddy took part in the Singles Competition which involves a time limit of 15 minutes to complete the course of a set pattern – Outrun, Lift, Fetch,

Drive, Shed and Pen with a maximum of 110 points awarded by each of the two judges.

For those to whom these

terms mean little, basically the dog is sent out, rounds up the sheep, keeps them in a tight group, take one out, put it back in, manage them around a twisting course and gathers them in a pen. This is a very complex operation requiring intense concentration and communication between handler and dog in such a short time.

Once the points were collated at the end of the three days, places on the National team were awarded to the top 15 top scorers.

Our young man and his dog competed on the second day, following the scoring as other competitors completed their runs.

It became really nailbiting on day three, when depending on the outcomes, Freddy would have a good idea as to whether or not he would be joining the team.

He said: “It was a really tense time watching each of the handlers taking part, hearing their scores and working out whether or not that would put me in the top 15. In the end I was absolutely delighted to get the 15th and last place on the National team.

“It’s amazing!”

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13/09/2021 09:53:01

Tell me your “Once Upon a Bicycle..” story!

Jo Cowan I was recently asked to participate in Kinlochleven Community Trust’s Think Health, Think Nature Cycle Day when they were launching their new e-bikes project. It was a great idea, attracting people of all ages – so, what could I do? I’m no great cyclist!

A couple of phone calls later I had sourced, and was picking up, a 1987 Raleigh Triumph bicycle and was thanking Neil Parrish for both his bike and his inspiration!

I fixed a sign to it saying: “Once Upon a Bicycle....”

People of all ages have bicycle memories and stories.

Highland Senior Citizens Network is keen to hear yours!

Your first bike; your favourite bike; your first/best memories of cycling..

Come and share your bicycle story.

On Saturday 7th August, I set up my stall and enjoyed visits from people of all ages – with two families turning

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up with three generations together.

Here’s Deborah’s story of overstepping parental boundaries on her bicycle: When I was nine or so, a friend and I went for a wee run out to Seagull Island. We decided to go a bit further, and then further again. When we arrived at Bishop’s Bay, we decided that we were going round the loch.

We were having a great time, stopping off for a shot on the swings at Glencoe, then a mad rush to get home before the hooter at quarter to five! We were never missed – those were the days! All was well until someone mentioned to one of our parents that they had seen us in the Glencoe playpark...

I recorded some lovely bicycle

memories, and one about making great “bogies” with bicycle wheels. Some of the visitors weren’t too sure about the word “bogies”, mind you!

I even found myself promising to come back and try out the fantastic new e-bikes.

So, what’s your “Once Upon a Bicycle” story? Please get in touch if you have a bicycle-related tale to share.

E-mail jo-hscn@outlook.com or call me on 07933 653585

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Moving on from September to October brings the prospect of the annual hour change. A TV reporter said in August. “Soon we’ll be putting our clocks back an hour, today in Kabul it feels as if the clocks have gone back 20 years”. World leaders will soon meet in Glasgow hoping to tackle Climate change. In times of change I like to reminisce on some happy past times, even as recent as last summer. Didn’t we have a glorious, sunny summer in Lochaber? And lots of visitors shared it with us, saying, “What a lovely place to

live”. Locals used to say “If you can’t see Ben Nevis it is raining, if you can, it will rain soon.” Somehow that didn’t seem appropriate this year.

The slight downside for gardeners was having to water religiously every day. However, at the time my son-in-law came to visit in August, heavy thundery rain was falling, so no need to water outside.

Being a gardener himself he noticed dry tomatoes in the greenhouse, and kindly watered them unasked.

Having visitors again after a long Covid lull had made me so excited I’d forgotten the greenhouse.

I wonder if St Paul was

a gardener? He used a gardening metaphor to try sorting out new Christians in Corinth, who were splitting their church into personality driven factions. He said, “I planted the seed, Apollos watered the plants, but GOD made you grow.” [The Message] He then goes on to explain how such spiritual “gardening” is like a minimum wage job.

What makes it worthwhile is “the God we are serving”.

I am grateful for all my gardening and home helpers, and pray that, from those on minimum wage to those in top leadership jobs in churches and politics alike, we can all play our part to save God’s wonderful world.

Snappers caught on camera in Mallaig station with the Jacobite Steam train on a ‘Photographers Special’ which is still a very popular activity amongst railway enthusiasts who travel from all over the country to join in. Photograph by Steve Roberts

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13/09/2021 09:53:07

FORT WILLIAM FESTIVE FUND TO LIGHT UP THE HIGH STREET Iain Ferguson It may seem a bit early to be talking about Christmas, but a group of volunteers in Fort William have set out to raise £8000 in an effort to light up the High Street with colourful lights to ignite the Festive Spirit and drive away the winter darkness.

This year, despite the excellent and unusually warm summer weather, it has not been that great for many people, shut in at home due to Covid restrictions. This was very necessary and undoubtedly saved many lives, but did mean a lack of contact and huge change from everyday normal life.

The group are hoping that

by Christmas getting out and

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about will be a real option and would like to make the High Street look that little bit special to encourage people to visit, shop and support the many local businesses who have found it equally hard going.

Sasha McKinlay, one of the festive fund organisers said: “Traditionally, the High Street area has been lit up by lights during the festive season to encourage a coming together of our community in the hub of Lochaber’s shopping district.

“Many people in the community enjoy the atmosphere that lights create during this dark season in the Highlands.

It also encourages footfall and a festive spirit, making it more likely that local people will ‘shop local’ and help to instil a sense of pride in the town.”

This venture is just the start of which they hope will be an ongoing fund to ensure future festive installations and events will take place.

Our current objective is to raise funds for the 2021 festive light display in the centre of town. Our ongoing goal is to create a fund that will ensure a festive installation and event each year for our community.

To make a contribution go to the Fort Willian Festive Fund page on social media which is linked to a donations page including a QR code which makes it even easier. For a more low-tech solution, collecting tins should soon be on display in shops, where every penny can add to the brightness and Christmas cheer of the town.

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the community is still caring. But where?

LASt MONtH: Shaun the Sheep toy on the corran Ferry.

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NEW SHINTY PITCH NAMED AFTER FORMER JUNIOR PLAYER

Iain Ferguson The first new shinty field in the area for many years was officially opened recently by Duncan and Rosemary MacPhee, dedicated to the memory of their late son and Fort William Junior shinty player, Fraser.

Laid out adjoining the main pitch at An Aird, an area of waste ground was turned into a purpose built training pitch which meets requirements for Junior League shinty matches and also boasts floodlight coverage making it one of only a few shinty parks in the Highlands to do so.

In recognising the long-term commitment to the club by the MacPhee family, both on the Board and on the pitch, it was proposed by club members to name the new field after Fraser, who was a highly talented and well respected player, with friends across the shinty world.

Unveiled by Rosemary, the sign carries a message for all using the field and for everyone participating in any sport: “For when the one great scorer comes to mark against your name. It matters not if you won or lost, but how you played the game”.

For several years a North/ South junior tournament,

organised by the family has been held in Fraser’s memory and it is hoped that the new field will provide a home for this in the future. The pitch has already found great use by youngsters participating in the Shinty Street League.

Following the opening, a Fort William v Kilmallie U-14 League Match took place and was won by the home side after a hard fought battle.

At half time an inscribed black Caman with silver fittings was presented to Sandy Slater by the club for his work in securing the £200,000 funding from various bodies, such as the European Leader Fund which allowed the project to go ahead.

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