MBC News 177 nov dec jan

mbC

News Milltimber

Bieldside Cults

Issue 177

Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

PETERCULTER DENTAL PRACTICE Registering NHS Patients

Call now 01224 730111 to join

General NHS and Private Dental Treatments Cosmetic Dentistry Digital Smile Design Implants Teeth Whitening Diamond Airflow Antiwrinkle Treatments and much more….

279/281 North Deeside Road AB14 0UL

Save the date Thursday 15 March 2018 The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa The Action Medical Research for Children Lunch with speaker - Penny Mallory Enquiries contact Ccooper@action.org.uk Telephone : 01236 782820

Charity reg nos 208701 and SCO39284

Page 2

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

MBC News Delivery Issue 177 We are looking for some new volunteers for the MBC News. We need someone to cover: »» A round of 60 copies, taking in Springdale Rd. No.23 upwards, Pinecrest Circle + Drive + Walk + Gardens. »» The new houses in Countesswells (around 60 cop ies) and »» The new houses in the small development on the site of the Old Waterwheel Inn (15 copies). »» Delivery to houses on the north side of the North Deeside Rd. from Netherby Rd to Cults Hotel (ex cluding flats at old Village Garage site)

»» Delivery to Binghill Cres #1-43 and #2-58 Milltimber (49 copies)

Gaps in other areas often come up so even if the current openings do not suit you and you’d like to help, please contact Peter Roberts email: roberts.peter53@ gmail.com or Tel. 01224 868524.

Thank you.

Copy Deadline: 07 Jan ‘18 Distribution: Feb ‘18 delivery

NB : the editorial content for this issue should be relevant for reading in mid-Feb thru to end of May 2018 and beyond.

We are trying to make the process of sending us information as simple as possible. We are all volunteers and cannot man the office 24 hours a day and respond to every email. Want to send us some editorial? Editorial - please put it in a word document. If you have picture attachments please do not put these in the body of the word document, they need to be SEPARATE attachments. Want to send us an advert? Please send it as a high resolution jpg or pdf file. If you CAN’T DO THIS... then contact mbc@gazettemagazines.com and Sue will help you build an advert suitable for publication for a small fee.

NEW : Upload and book direct from the website website address www.cbmcommunity.org.uk OR Send your copy as an email instructions above: mbcnews@cbmcommunity.org.uk Or POST to : MBC News, c/o Lyndhurst, Deeview Road South, Cults, AB15 9NA Contact Details for mbc News Team : 07415 659161 Editor (Carol) Assistant (Christine) 01224 863519 Advertising (Freia)

Assistant (Maren) 01224 864466 Accounts (David) 01224 862262 What’s On Locally (Eleanor)

Layout (Sue) mbc@gazettemagazines.com

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

Editorial

O

ur house has become very quiet. Our youngest little cherub has gone off to university. I haven’t said he’s moved out because I know, from past experience, that he will be back …. many times. But for now, there is no music booming, no procession of teenagers trooping past the kitchen door, no raucous laughter, no morning food debris from late night snacks and the washing machine thinks it’s on holiday. Ok, so there are a few benefits but the silence is uncanny. I know there will be many households in the MBC area who will also be pining for their messy, noisy, grumpy teenagers but enjoy the little benefits too because they WILL be back, to once again grace you with their adorable habits and of course, the music and laughter.

I hadn’t realized just how much was riding on my son’s exam results. Of course, his place at university but, it appears, the local house prices too. To live near Cults Academy increases the price of a house by an average £100 000 (The Press and Journal, 20/9/17). The Academy’s continued success in securing a place within the top performing schools is to be celebrated but another demand on youngsters to produce results- those A’s are needed to increase the value of their parents’ house!

With the drab weather we have had, the MBC festival in the summer may seem like a distant memory but the festival team have put together a recap of the highlights. They were delighted with the support for all events but were particularly pleased to see a great turn-out at the newly added ones. The Deeside Local Food Festival was also well attended. I’m so glad this entertaining and delicious event has become a permanent feature in the MBC calendar.

This issue of MBC News doesn’t have our usual ‘Local Walk’ feature. The seasonal walk has become very popular and it is largely put together by the community council footpath group. The walk has taken a back seat this issue as the group has been concentrating on securing funding from Scottish charity, Paths for All. The grant will be used to produce a local walks leaflet and help improve local paths: a bonus for the area and those of you who have already enjoyed MBC News’ seasonal rambles. The project must have the support of volunteers as a funding condition so if you would like to get involved, have a look at the Community Paths article for details.

And so, to looking ahead… Depending on how you view it, Christmas looms or beckons. Christmas Fairs will soon be in full swing and of course, we have our own independent, local shops to buy that special something. Whatever your plans, I wish all our readers, advertisers and contributors a very Merry Christmas.

Carol http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 3

News from the Cults Bieldside and Milltimber Community Council the community council know if you will be available for this task. Send in the application form in this edition of MBC News or give me or any of the other community councillors a call.

W

hen you read this, autumn weather will have shown itself and I hope it has been kind so far.

There have been a number of severe weather disasters in other parts of the world this year and although our area is not particularly prone to extreme weather conditions it pays to be alert.

We should not forget the trouble storm Frank caused two years ago and there are several other historical examples showing that ‘you never know’.

With this in mind the community council - after several years of delay - has initiated the creation of a Resilience Plan.

This plan will set out what volunteers, organised by the community, can and will do if an emergency situation develops in the area before the formal services, like the police or fire service, have a chance to get into action. We are speaking mainly about warning residents and helping them to safe refuge facilities. Volunteers is the key word here! The community council is looking for residents and people working in the area who are willing to give a hand in that situation. This will not be a timeconsuming volunteering task; hopefully no action will ever be required apart from an annual refreshment (probably in both senses!) get-together. Please let

Page 4

The community council lost two members and one youth member during the last quarter. Shan Parfitt and Theo Parfitt-Roche resigned due to their move to Vienna - some people have all the luck - and Lorna Sharp was unable to continue as a result of frequent travelling absences. We thank them for their contributions to, and time spent on, improving the quality of life in our community.

As a result of the above we now have vacancies on the community council and will be looking to co-opt potential new members.

Due to illness of the assigned author, the drafting of the local Health and Social Care Plan has hit some delays. By the time you read this the Plan will hopefully have been through the final consultation stage, but it is expected that a number of essential elements, such as funding and staffing, will not yet have been broken down to Locality level in detail. The newly established Partnership is taking a very long time to get fully organised.

Thanks to the efforts of community councillor Christine Anderson, we have been awarded a grant from Paths for All to be used for path clearance, signposting and preparation of an information

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

leaflet. The grant conditions require part volunteer work – a request for path volunteers appears in this issue of the MBC News.

Last year we announced our intention to produce a dynamic web-based Community Plan and we have been quietly working on this during the year. The majority of our thoughts are now available on the website for your comments and views. Please let us have your ideas.

Last but not least, let me congratulate the organisers of both summer festivals that enlivened our area this year. The MBC festival again had a number of new events in its programme attracting a great number of residents, and the Local Food Festival saw a record number of visitors. At this time, we are looking forward to the festive season and you will be treated to an extensive Christmas light display in our area. Several businesses and individuals have pleasantly surprised us by sponsoring a large number of lights making it possible to create our own winter wonderland.

With that, and on behalf of the Community Council, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year when it comes and hope to see many of you at the Community Carol Concert in early December.

Guus Glass

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Community Council Members Nurul Ali

Bieldside

07984 062689

Christine Anderson

Cults

David Anstee

Cults

Eleanor Brennan

Cults

Norman Burt

Milltimber

Colin Caldow

Cults

Lindsay Davidson

Bieldside

Matthew Dickie

Newton Dee

Guus Glass

Cults

Sarah Gordon

Cults

Kirstin Gove

Bieldside

Colin Morsley

Milltimber

Correspondence Secretary

Peter Smith

Cults

Meeting Secretary

Graham Payne

Cults

868827

Treasurer

Derek Robb

Bieldside

868797

Vice-Chairman

Peter Roberts

Bieldside

868524

Planning Liaison Officer

Nabilah Ali

Bieldside

862262

864925

Chairman

Youth Member

Vacancy Vacancy Vacancy

Youth Member

Future Meetings

Venue

23 November 2017

Deeside Christian Fellowship Church - Cafe

December 2017

No Meeting

25 January 2018

Cults Community Centre – swimming pool entrance

22 February 2018

Deeside Christian Fellowship Church - Cafe

22 March 2018

Cults Community Centre – swimming pool entrance

All meetings start at 7:00pm

Contact Details Email: cbmcc@cbmcommunity.org.uk Mail address: CBMCC, c/o Secretary, 188 North Deeside Road, Milltimber, AB13 0HL http://www.cbmcommunity.org.uk/ www.facebook.com/cbmcomcouncil Other useful contacts Cllr Marie Boulton 522178 / 734712 Cllr Philip Bell 346638 Cllr Tauqeer Malik 346615 / 07732 172225 Police (non emergencies) 0845 600 5700

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 5

CULTS BIELDSIDE AND MILLTIMBER COMMUNITY COUNCIL Resilience begins at home Emergencies can happen at any time but with a few small steps we can prepare our family, our home and our business for unexpected events that could cause disruption to our daily lives.

Are you prepared for the kind of things that can happen because of an emergency?

• Power cuts, or disruption to fuel supplies • Loss of telephone communications • Flooding, at home, or at your place of business • Becoming stranded or severely delayed while on a journey in the car • Evacuation from your home or business, either by yourself or by the authorities, or being unable to get in to your home or premises • Being confined to the indoors, at home, or somewhere else • Unplanned separation of family members Without going over the top, here are a few simple things you can do to cope with some of the above conditions. Just having a few everyday items easily to hand can save a lot of trouble when the unexpected happens. Things like : 99 A torch and radio with spare batteries for both or better still: wind up.

99 A stock of 3 days-worth of food and water that won’t go off (or gets used regularly).

99 Baby and pet supplies if needed.

99 Emergency phone numbers.

99 An old-fashioned corded telephone that plugs into the wall will keep working for some time even after a power cut - so is good to have one in your home.

99 Know where your essential medicines and first aid kit are.

99 Know where your important documents (like insurances and passports) are or keep copies.

99 Know where your spare car keys are.

These are just a few of the move obvious pointers. You can find out more on preparing for and managing emergency situations on the Ready Scotland website: www.readyscotland.org. This includes advice on how to create an emergency household plan and how to prepare an emergency kit.

There is also a free-to-download Ready Scotland mobile app that can help you prepare for a range of emergencies.

Colin Morsley, Correspondence Secretary 01224 733108  

Page 6

cbmcc@cbmcommunity.org.uk

Website: www.cbmcommunity.org.uk

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

CULTS BIELDSIDE AND MILLTIMBER COMMUNITY COUNCIL CBMCC@cbmcccommunity.co.uk

Resilience Plan - Volunteers Wanted The Community Council’s working on a Resilience Plan, an action plan to use local volunteers, facilities and equipment for an early response to major local emergencies: flooding, severe weather, fires etc - and to assist the Official emergency services If you live in the local area, are aged over 16 and fit, and are interested to volunteer then we would like to hear from you.

Please complete this form and send it to our secretary at 188 North Deeside Road, Milltimber, AB13 0HL or send an email to the above email address, and we will contact you with more details.

Name Telephone Contact No: Reside of: Circle suburb applicable) NOTES:

CULTS

BIELDSIDE

MILLTIMBER

A Family of Healthcare & Retail Services Since 1928

391 Union Street . Aberdeen . 01224 585312 . michies.co.uk

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 7

 Cults – Bieldside – Milltimber  Monthly, two monthly, single clean  Free sills clean included  Roof gutters cleared  Licence and insured Gordon or Paul

07762 149712

clean33@talktalk.net Page 8

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

(CBM Community Council Section)

Planning Matters!

A

s summer fades, it seems like developers start to get busy, which in turn keeps the Community Council busy. As well as the routine planning applications, we have two larger scale developments waiting in the wings – Bancon’s Milltimber South and Stewart Milne’s Friarsfield section (Phase 3 of the overall Friarsfield development).

First a few statistics - the number of planning applications for Cults, Bieldside and Milltimber in the second quarter was 34 and we have submitted comments on two of those relating to a transfer of affordable home obligation at Friarsfield.

A few words on the major developments in our area: Countesswells – Work on Phase 1 of the development, around 1260 homes, is progressing and around 130 homes are now occupied. The landscaping of some of the greenspace has also been done. Another developer, Kirkwood Homes, is picking up the construction of 57 of the homes in Block C2.

Friarsfield – Work has begun on CALA Phase 2, which will be 109 houses and 12 apartments. The link road between Kirk Brae and Craigton Road is due by the time 160 houses are sold (towards the end of Ph.2), with around 100 built so far. The Community Council has objected to CALA’s application to move an obligation to build affordable homes (20 in total) from the site to a site on King St. in Aberdeen.

The application from CALA for a small additional phase of housing of 26 residential units on the eastern end of the site, which also includes the plans for the remaining section of the link road, is still under review by the City Planners.

The planning application for the third phase, which we think will be 72 homes and will be built by Stewart Milne Group, is being prepared and a public exhibition is scheduled for 2 November.

This will be on the most westerly section of the site on Kirk Brae.

Oldfold Farm – Work on Phase 1 for 61 homes continues and a good number of homes are now occupied.

A planning application for Phase 2 for 166 homes has been submitted which will take the total to 227. The new primary school will be required between 250 and 300 homes being built and sold.

Milltimber South – This is the new Bancon development which the Scottish Reporter added to the Aberdeen City Local Development Plan. The proposal is for 60 homes and 1225sq.m. commercial premises.

A public exhibition of outline plans was held in September and a second exhibition with more details of the proposed development held in October. If you have any comments on the proposed development, the Community Council would like to receive them.

AWPR – The road and junction at Milltimber continues to take shape.

The Project team are still projecting completion of the road in the winter of 2017/18.

McCarthy & Stone Development at 3 South Avenue, Cults –The refusal decision on the first planning application 160552 submitted in May 2016 for 21 two-bedroom apartments was appealed and the Scottish Reporter has upheld the appeal and granted planning permission. The second planning application 170087 for 21 apartments on the site at 3 South Avenue, which was submitted in January 2017 and also refused, made some adjustments to address neighbour concerns. It will be interesting to see if McCarthy & Stone follow up on these now that they have planning permission.

Inchgarth Road Development – The developers are still shaping their proposals for development on the open land just to the west of Pitfodels Station Road between the North Deeside Road and Inchgarth Road. We have not had any further information since the last edition of the MBC News.

Earlspark Crescent – The owner of land behind the houses on Earlspark Crescent wishes to remove some trees and requires access to the land over Aberdeen City Council land. The general terms of an access agreement have been agreed by ACC but as far as we know there is still no agreement for the access to be taken or when the

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

access might commence.

Aberdeen Local Development Plan (LDP) – Developers are already starting to prepare proposals for inclusion in the next LDP. As the Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire Strategic Plan update is behind schedule, we do not expect work on the LDP to begin until 2018. Recent proposals on a reform of Scottish Planning Regulation may lead to the dropping of Strategic Development plans and extending the cycle for Local Development Plans to ten years – these are due to be debated at Holyrood later this year.

City Centre Master Plan - The Reference Group established to help provide input to proposals for City Centre Development met on 26 September. Progress is being made on key projects with around £36 million now committed: Union St rejuvenation is underway; plans for the redevelopment of Union Terrace Gardens were approved by the Aberdeen City Council in March however some objections to the detailed planning application now mean that work will begin in 2018 rather than this year; Broad St public works are in progress and due to problems with a peat bed and drainage, work will not be completed by year end – enough work will be done to allow the Christmas Festival to take place in the square and then the work will be completed in 2018; Marischal Sq. building should be ready by end 2017, later than planned; Art Gallery on target for Dec 17 opening; Music Hall on target for August 2018.

Expansion plans for the Bon Accord/ St. Nicholas centre and Union Square have been approved subject to certain conditions. Abelio will be commissioning work to improve the railway station concourse.

Recent major public events e.g. Nu-art, Cycle Tour Series, Great Aberdeen Run have been well received and work continues on attracting people to the city. A video made by and involving school children talking about the transformation of Aberdeen has been made and used at an event at Harlaw Academy. Plans are being made for use at other schools.

A City Voice survey on Aberdeen as a place attracted 795 responses.

Respondents saw scope for improvement in a number of areas, particularly in having a say in decision-

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 9

making and ensuring ongoing care and repair of buildings and spaces. Room for improvement was also noted for; Creating an attractive place that is easy to get around Giving the city centre a positive identity Providing a range of housing Promoting enjoyment of green spaces Achieving safe access to the city centre Kingsford Aberdeen Football Stadium The planning application which is under review has attracted a large volume of public comment. A decision on the proposal is expected at the October City Council meeting.

Community Council Boundaries – There is a proposal to alter the Cults, Bieldside and Milltimber Community Council (CBMCC) boundary to allocate the area to the west of the AWPR to Peterculter Community Council, as the new road may make a more logical physical separation of the areas, and a small area at the corner of Pitfodels Station Rd. and Inchgarth Rd. from Garthdee CC to CBMCC (see map).

Your views on the proposed changes are sought by email to cbmcc@ cbmcommnity.org.uk before they are considered by Aberdeen City Council later this year.

Deeside Food Festival – Our thanks to all those who participated in the Food Festival and those who came by the

Community Council stand. We ran a small survey and didn’t get too much input but here is what was said.

What do you want from your Community Council?

No responses What activities should the Community Council focus upon? And shouldn’t?

Concerned about the building of unnecessary housing on green belt Control of new housing developments New developments; sustainable living; bike paths to and from schools; safe walking paths What are your main concerns about the Cults, Bieldside and Milltimber Community?

New housing leading to over-populated primary schools Lack of shop in Milltimber Over-crowded schools (Cults Primary) and services due to growing population Do you support the proposed change in the Community Council boundary – East and West?

No responses.

What do you like about the Cults, Bieldside and Milltimber community?

Community spirit MBC Festival Flowers Christmas

We’ll have another go at gathering input through an online survey in November.

Road Works - You can keep up to date on road works in our area through our Community Council facebook page at www.facebook.com/cbmcomcouncil/ and also on our website at www. cbmcommunity.org.uk. You can also find road work updates at www. tellmescotland.gov.uk/notices/aberdeencity/ and through www.aberdeencity.gov. uk/transport_streets/roads_pavements/ roads_and_pavements.asp You can see a current list of planning applications and monthly planning reports on our website. The Community Council would like residents to know and feel comfortable that they can approach us, either at one of our monthly meetings or outside of a meeting, to discuss their concerns or support for a planning application being made in our area. We listen to all views and the more we hear, the better we are able to fairly represent the community of Cults, Bieldside and Milltimber. Please don’t hesitate to contact the Community Council if you have any questions or concerns about a planning application and would like to place a topic on our meeting agenda.

Peter Roberts

21st Aberdeen (Cults) Scout Group Charity No. SC 018385 www.21staberdeenscouts.org.uk

Book Sale and Christmas Fair Saturday 18th November 2017 10am - 2pm at the Scout Centre

Christmas Gifts / Toys Refreshments Home Baking Books DVDs CDs Chocolate Tombola

We would be grateful for donations of BOOKS, DVDs, CDs and CHOCOLATE. Items can be delivered to the Scout Centre, South Avenue, Cults from Monday 13th to Friday 17th November (1-3pm or 7-9pm) Admission, £2 Adults, £1 Children (includes refreshment) Thank you for supporting your Scout Group. Your help is very much appreciated!

Page 10

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Christmas Lights Project 2017 Ref: Community Christmas Lights Project – Sponsorship Opportunity Everybody looks forward to the Christmas lights being switched on. We have been very fortunate to have a number of local people and businesses come forward to sponsor them; however we would like to see Christmas lights stretch along North Deeside Road.

Cults, Bieldside and Milltimber Community Council are initiating a Christmas Lights Project with the aim of introducing Christmas lights into the community for the 2017 festive season. Our plan is to erect new Christmas lights on lampposts as column-mounted features in prominent positions along the North Deeside Road.

The Community Council would be grateful if your business would become the project’s principal sponsor or alternatively a sponsor of one or more festive lights. Sponsor names will be displayed on a plaque located on each feature and acknowledged in MBC News. This is an excellent opportunity to support our drive to brighten up the heart of our community during the festive period, fostering good will and potentially attracting more people into our local businesses.

The Community Council are committed to working with local businesses to create the best possible festive display; let’s work together and provide a little bit of festive magic for all to see.

Bank Details: C.B.M.C.C.

Sort Code: 80-60-19; Account Number: 10168261 Lindsay Davidson Community Councillor Cults, Bieldside and Milltimber Community Council

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 11

News from Councillors It is hard to believe we are already in Autumn and the dark nights have arrived. Can we ask that everyone cut back branches and shrubs on their property which protrude on to public pavements or footpaths and which could cause obstruction or injury to pedestrians?

We are aware that the waste and recycling collections are still causing problems for a small number of people, with collections not being made. We recognise that the current service level in this area is not up to standard and are working to resolve this in the short term by providing more vehicles and crews and by splitting routes.

This is causing some errors but we are working on a complete re-routing exercise, based on the knowledge we have gained over the last few months, that will improve the structure and establish routine routes that are manageable.

There will be no changes to collection days for householders but there may be a different time in the day for your collection. Please accept our apologies and reassurances that we are working on your behalf, together with the waste collection service, to resolve these issues. If any resident has ongoing issues please let us know, but you can also report problems directly to the Waste Department by telephone or email. Phone: 03000 200 292 Email: wasteandrecycling@aberdeencity.gov.uk The webpage with contact details can also be found at http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/waste/ waste_contact.asp We are pleased to report that the following roads have been repaired and surfaced, Friarsfield Road, Craigton Road and Deeview Road South. Monies have now been secured and received following protracted negotiations between Aberdeen City Council Roads Officers and the AWPR. Much of the damage to Contlaw Road, Culter House Road and Malcolm Road was caused by heavy lorries using these roads which were not built to cope with prolonged use by 7.5 tonne vehicles. The work to repair these roads will be carried out once we have received confirmation from the AWPR that their work is complete. We are aware further roads will require to be repaired because of damage sustained during the construction phase of the AWPR and roads inspectors will be addressing these in due course. Double yellow lines have now been painted

on Station Road in Milltimber to prohibit parking.

This action has been taken as cars were being left there, sometimes all day, causing obstruction to emergency vehicles and residents’ access to their homes. A twenty-mile-an-hour speed restriction is now in place on Gowanbrae Road and Prospecthill Road in Bieldside, following complaints from pedestrians and residents about speeding vehicles on these very narrow streets. We would also remind drivers that both roads are one-way. It has been brought to our attention that drivers are travelling down these roads in the wrong direction; the police have been informed and will be carrying out ad-hoc checks. Inappropriately parked cars are still causing problems in locations around our local schools and shops, sometimes resulting in blocking footpaths, which has forced wheelchair users and people with prams onto the road. City Wardens are being deployed to educate drivers and issue tickets if necessary but we would appeal to all vehicle users to consider parking appropriately at all times.

We are delighted that Allan Park is finally finished and that children of all ages are enjoying the new play equipment, in particular the long slide.

However, we were disappointed to receive reports that a small number of teenagers were seen trying to vandalise some of the new play equipment and were climbing on the cricket nets. The Cricket Club and Aberdeen City Council, working with the Friends of Allan Park, have worked very hard in repairing and replacing equipment and upgrading the park and Cricket Club so that residents can enjoy the facilities. However there are no budgets to carry out any further works should they be damaged or destroyed.

Another area in Cults on which we are currently working is next to Cults Primary, again attempting to improve the active play offer for our young people. We have removed the old skate park equipment and ACC Play Officers are working with young people and Skate Park suppliers, to design a replacement scheme. In the same location, we are also working with a group of sixth year pupils from Cults Academy together with Transition Extreme, to design a “Pump Track” which would complete the new “Extreme Sport area”.

Milltimber, which has lacked play facilities, is now to see an upgrade to the play area next to the Community Centre and the small play park off

BSR can help with: 07880 – 69 55 69

Colthill Road. ACC Play Officers are currently bringing forward schemes which they will discuss with the children at the local school and nurseries to let them pick their favourite scheme. Weather permitting, we should see these two parks completed by the end of this financial year.

On the 8th September, at Cults Kirk Centre, an initial exhibition was held on the development proposed in the middle of Milltimber, on the North Deeside Road, this area having been allocated by the Scottish Reporter into Aberdeen City Council’s Local Development Plan. Many residents attended and gave their views on the proposals; this session was followed by a pre-application forum, held with the planning committee and a presentation to the local Community Council. Another date has been set for proposals to be viewed, which will be held on the 13th October from 1-7pm, again at the Cults Kirk Centre. We will give a further update in our next article.

We would like to congratulate everyone involved with this year’s MBC Festival, Deeside Food Festival and Culter Gala, all of which went extremely well. The blooms along the North Deeside Road from Cults to Culter provide a lot of pleasure to many and we recognise they take a lot of work by a small number of people. Thanks must go to all the volunteers who put on events, offer activities, run community buildings, Community Councils and provide a large range of groups from Scouts to Amateur Dramatics, from Musical Memories to the Resilience Group. These activities and the people involved help make Lower Deeside a great place to live, thank you everyone!

Councillor Philip Bell, Conservative Councillor Marie Boulton, Independent Councillor Tauqeer Malik, Labour Councillor Phillip Bell: Surgeries for the Lower Deeside Ward.

Cults Community Centre: 2nd Tuesday of the month 12th September 2017 to 12th June 2018, (School term time only) 7.00pm – 8.00pm Milltimber Community Centre: 3rd Friday of the month 15th September 2017 to 15th June 2018, (School term time only. 6.00pm – 7.00pm

Back pain, sciatica, herniated discs, Neck pain, arthritis, whiplash, hip pain, frozen shoulder, restricted movement, migraines, headaches, neuralgia, TMJ problems, constipation, indigestion, gyneacological disorders, and many others.

I.F. Borodatencu, Cults

A low impact method to relieve pain, stress and tension with an established technique:

BSR Practitioner, MBSRA(UK), BCMA Reg.

Body Stress Release (BSR).

ionela@bodystressrelease.org.uk

Gentle enough for babies, children and the elderly.

Page 12

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

www.bodystressrelease.org.uk

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Heritage Walk This is Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology and, as part of this year’s MBC Festival, the Community Council footpath group held a guided Heritage Walk on Sunday, 10 September. Fifteen people participated in the event, walking from Cults Hotel to the Allan Park and back, via Cults Station and Morison’s Bridge, aka the Shakkin Briggie.

En route we all learned a great deal about local history from the various speakers. Sarah Gordon told us about the 1885 Aberdeen Waterworks building and the Pump House down at the River Dee. Ross Kerby provided a wealth of information on Cults Station and the Deeside Railway and Guus Glass recounted the history of Morison’s Bridge. The concluding talk on the heritage of the Allan Park was given by Iain Clark. Returning to the Cults Hotel, some of the group had a look at the old photographs of Cults displayed in the public bar!

If you want to find out more information about these and other local historical sites, relevant books held by Cults Library and the Central Library include Roy Howard’s Cults Past and Present, D Jamieson’s Old Lower Deeside and Graham Marr’s The Old Deeside Road Revisited.

The City Council information boards on the Deeside Way at the sites of former stations and the notice at the Bieldside Cairn provide historical information on site. A list of local heritage sites and relevant information can also be found on various databases: Sites and Monuments Record (SMR) on the Aberdeen City Council website; Silver City Vaults, the local history section of Aberdeen City Libraries; Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS); and CANMORE, the National Monuments Database.

Volunteers required to assist in community paths project Cults Bieldside and Milltimber Community Council are calling for volunteers, after being successful in receiving funding from Scottish charity Paths for All, to encourage more people to get active outdoors and get involved with their community. The grant will be used to produce a local walks leaflet and help improve local paths, and the project has to involve support by volunteers as a condition of the funding.

This winter Cults, Bieldside and Milltimber Community Council and the Countryside Ranger Service are seeking volunteers to tidy up the Deeside Line around Cults Station. Tasks will include cutting back vegetation and maintaining access paths on to the old railway line. We will be running sessions on Wednesday 22 November and Sunday 3 December from 10.00 to 3.00. Come along for an hour or two in the morning or afternoon if you can’t manage the whole session. No previous experience necessary, and all skills levels are welcomed - you may even learn a new skill in the process!

If you would like to get involved meet at the Cults Station platform with suitable clothing, sturdy footwear, a packed lunch (if you are staying for the whole session) and all the enthusiasm you can muster! For more information please get in touch with community councillors Christine Anderson, christine@christinalogie.plus.com or Sarah Gordon, sargogs@aol.com, or contact the Countryside Rangers on 01224 326429, countrysideranger@aberdeencity.gov.uk Ian Findlay, Chief Officer of Paths for All (www.pathsforall.org) a charity supported by the Scottish Government to promote physical activity and walking for health in Scotland, said: “We were really pleased to be able to support this project through our Community Path grant fund. We would now encourage anyone who can to support the group by joining them on their volunteer day. Getting involved in a path development project like this is a great opportunity to feel part of the community and really gives a sense of pride and achievement to volunteers.”

Join us on 22 November or 3 December.

STOP PRESS: Additional Volunteer Opportunity on Saturday 11 November 10.00-12.00 and/or 12.30-2.30 at Foggieton Woods.

Meet at Foggieton Woods car park at 10.00am or 12.30pm.

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 13

News from Maureen Watt, MSP As the parent of two grown-up children it has been my main aim throughout my working life, both in my years as a teacher and now as your MSP, to make sure that each and every child has the best opportunities in life.

In tough economic times achieving this aim is never going to be easy but I do believe that a great deal of progress has been made and that there is more to come.

Over the summer months, we saw the launch of the much-anticipated baby-box in Aberdeen and across Scotland. This box, based around a similar scheme in Finland, provides all new parents with the opportunity to ensure that their baby has a safe place to sleep as well as basic essentials such as clothes, a bath towel, books, changing mat and bibs.

For many in Aberdeen, this box will make an enormous difference and I’ve already had a great deal of positive feedback. Hopefully, it can be the starting block from which every child, irrespective of their background, can prosper.

I’ve also been delighted to support efforts which will soon see a massive expansion in early-years childcare provision to 30 hours per week for all three and four year-olds, as well as our most vulnerable two year-olds. This is a massive commitment by the government to ensure that hard-pressed parents will have the flexibility to create the right work-life balance for both themselves and their child.

The knock-on economic impact of parents returning to work is well known, but alleviating the stress of finding affordable childcare will also relieve a burden on many.

There has undoubtedly been a great deal of public discussion regarding business rates and there can be no doubt that the revaluation could not have come at a more challenging time for Aberdeen and the surrounding area. The Barclay Review into business rates made clear that a number of changes were needed and the government has listened.

Crucially, the acceptance of the recommendation to alleviate nurseries from rates liabilities will help to ensure that childcare businesses have scope to expand their businesses and work in partnership with public bodies to make this much-needed expansion of childcare a reality.

Finally, in any discussion on our children, I do feel it is important to touch upon prevalent local matters too. That being the case, I do think it is important to make reference to the fact that a new Milltimber Primary school is most definitely needed and has been mooted by the council for some time. In 2012, we were told that funding to construct a new school would be in place from 2015. Clearly, no visible progress has been made and I have now had a number of parents contact my office to ask when they can expect to see some progress.

In the latest budget passed in February this year, it is stated that funding is due to come on stream in 2018 and I have therefore sought assurances from the council that this planned investment will actually take place next year. It is my hope that I’ll get some clarity in the coming weeks and I will be more than happy to share this with anyone interested in the issue.

In the meantime, my staff and I will remain hard at work at my office in Torry and if you ever feel I can assist with any matter, please feel free to contact me.

Maureen Watt, MSP Email: maureen.watt.msp@parliament.scot, tel: 01224 876743

In line with this, I was delighted when just a few weeks ago the Finance Secretary announced that, from April next year, nurseries will no longer have to pay business rates.

Yes you actually can see our furniture/carpets/rugs/occasional furniture in our George Street premises, feel free to touch it, see it up close and then if you decide to buy it from stock. if not in stock we can probably source it.

We are a local family run business with local businesses in mind. Delivering a quality service, second to none - with core values of customer commitment, value for money and first class service, including an excellent after sales service.

Landlord s ask for Joann Bryan ana or what we d see ca do for n you!

262 George Street, Aberdeen AB25 1HN • Tel: 01224 636126 • Fax: 01224 638831

Page 14 Email:mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18 http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/ enquiries@ewenandco.com • Website: www.ewenandco.com

Friends of the Allan Park Playground I am pleased to report that the new play equipment and slide have finally been installed. This has been a long time in coming but the new investment by the Council is very welcome and provides a more modern, safe and varied range of equipment after consultation with local school children and the community.

The long slide down the hill is a real hit and more families are evidently enjoying the new equipment, picnicking and the peacefulness of the park.

Seats and a new picnic table (to replace the previous vandalised one) adjoining the play park have also added to the attraction and comfort of this area.

Special thanks to the MBC News for their kind donation.

Playing Field The grass has almost completely recovered from the 2016 flooding allowing the Cults Cricket Club and recreational football and games players to resume the enjoyment of the pitch.

The washed down perimeter fence has mostly been replaced, as have the older buildings by a new more vandal proof pavilion which will be painted green.

Woods

because there is no stream inlet or outlet water flow – which is why the pond has continued to silt and vegetate to become a wetland habitat now.

Action Plans

Thanks to a small group of volunteers from Cults Academy pupils who planted Woodland Trust donated trees last October on the North bank where dead elms had been removed. The volunteers also planted shrubs in the East entrance border to enhance the appearance of the park on entry.

Extra and improved road signs from the North Deeside road right down to the Allan park entrance by the Council have increased the awareness and how to access the park as it is still a bit of an unknown gem.

Wetland

The Council has undertaken some maintenance work and the Friends of the Allan Park (and Cults Rotary Club members) recently completed some other tasks which have improved the appearance of the park. Vegetation was cut back, seats painted and the ground was prepared for planting a wild flower meadow.

Progress has been made but there is much more we would like to do. Your views/ideas and practical help are all appreciated and welcome.

Iain Clark Secretary, Friends of the Allan Park

The path surrounding the wetland has now been strimmed. Unfortunately, the reintroduction of tadpoles does not seem to have been successful - possibly

HNE

S

FR

ES

S

R

FR

EN FO OZ

•

•

DE I N MA

B

R I TA IN

Great food, no fuss

Enjoy a day off from cooking every once in a while with our range of quality home delivered meals & desserts.

Choose from over 300 delicious dishes, all cooked in the traditional way using wholesome ingredients and delivered to your door by our friendly local drivers.

Quote code MBC or enter online at the checkout

Call us for a FREE brochure

03300 240 402

(local rate)

or visit us online at oakhousefoods.co.uk

✓ Please send me a FREE colour brochure ■

OVER

MEALS FROM

300 £2.80 DISHES

FREE

DELIVERY ON ORDERS OVER £30

Mr / Mrs / Miss / Ms ..........................................................................

Address: ............................................................................................ .............................................................................................................

Postcode: ............................... Telephone: ......................................

Email: .................................................................................................

Post to: Freepost OAKHOUSE FOODS (no stamp needed)

“Excellent service and lovely food” - Jane

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

8.7/10**

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 15

*when you spend £30 or more ** Trustpilot ratings as of 20/07/2017

£5 off your first order*

This time of the year is always exciting for the children with Halloween, Bonfire Night, Diwali and Christmas and we have fun celebrating all the season has to offer - Autumn walks, Christmas trips to visit Santa and a Christmas Concert. We have spaces available so please contact us for more information. Contact details below. We will be having an Open Afternoon on 27th November from 1pm till 2.30pm. Please come along to see the playgroup and meet the staff.

We are delighted to share our new logo with you which was chosen by the children, staff and parents at St Devenick’s. Look out for it on the banner when you drive past!

Playgroup Autumn News We have had a busy term at St Devenick’s. It has been great to welcome all the new families to the playgroup and see the new children settling in well. When a child starts playgroup we want them to feel happy and secure so we spend a lot of time developing good relationships with the children and encouraging friendships.

We look forward to welcoming new children over the year as they turn 2½ and are able to come to the playgroup which gives them valuable experience in learning how to spend time away from home, make important steps in socialising and mixing with children they will probably go to school with. We are open 5 mornings a week.

Sometimes 3 to 5 days a week isn’t the best option for some families so . . . NEWS FLASH: WE ARE NOW ABLE TO OFFER PLACES FOR JUST 2 DAYS A WEEK! (places are still available for 3, 4 and 5 days a week)

McKay & Innes Funeral Directors "Let us help, guide and support you through a very sad and difficult time in your life"

Nichola Watson has taken on running our baby and toddler group, Tots and Toddlers. The group is very friendly and is thriving with the new additions of song time and bubbles. Please come along with your little one to meet a friendly face and have a cuppa while your child plays. Continuing thanks to the lovely team of ladies from the church who give their time to help.

The Rising Fives group has started back and is very busy. It has been great to welcome back playgroup children from last year and to welcome new children to our fun afternoon group.

With a new year comes a new committee. Thank you to Lisa Dalgarno and Sarah Esson for taking on the Chairperson role. It is good to share the role and, with all the offers of help and support from other parents and grandparents, we know it will be a good year. Thanks also to Kath Edge for taking on the Treasurer role and to Elizabeth Smith for being the Secretary. We would like to add a special thanks to the committee from last year. Sunniva Tweedie led a fantastic group of parents – thank you everyone for all your efforts!

Brian Taylor PainTEr & DECoraTor

25

ovEr yEars ExPEriEnCE

154 North Deeside Road Peterculter AB14 0UD T: 01224 730233 324 North Deeside Road Cults AB15 9SE T: 01224 868832 Email: mckayandinnes@outlook.com

 Available 24 Hours  Pre Paid Funeral Plans Available

all interior and exterior work undertaken H: 01224 735016 M: 07711581789 E: brian.taylor33@yahoo.co.uk

Cameron McKay & Callum Innes Page 16

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

As we are a charity we rely on fundraising and grants to keep us afloat.

Thanks to Scotmid for the grant which has allowed us to buy some large construction toys for the children. They love playing with them!

St. Devenick’s Playgroup is based at St. Devenick’s Church Hall. Playgroup runs Monday to Friday 9.10am–12.20pm, with an optional Wednesday lunch club. We provide preschool education in our bright hall , outdoor playground and lovely secret garden. Rising Fives is on a Tuesday and Thursday 12.30pm-3.00pm and Tots and Toddlers on a Wednesday morning 9.30am-11.30am. For further information about any of the above: visit our website www.stdevenicksplaygroup.btck.co.uk; find us on Facebook; contact us on 01224 867431 or email stdevenicksplaygroup@gmail.com. You could just pop in if you are passing to speak to a staff member and meet the team.

Registered charity: SCO166215

Monday -Friday 9.10 am – 12.20 pm For children aged 2 ½ to 5 years Friendly, dedicated, qualified staff Not required to be potty trained Spaces available for 2 to 5 days a week, including funded spaces Lunch Club Wednesdays (12:20-1:30pm) Healthy snack provided each day Bright hall and outdoor playground available everyday Plus our Secret Garden is set up for outdoor learning experiences

For more information contact: Phone: 867431 Email: stdevenicksplaygroup@gmail.com Website: stdevenicksplaygroup.btck.co.uk Find us on Facebook Or just pop in to speak to a playleader and meet the team!

Also . . .TOTS AND TODDLERS - Wednesday 9.30-11.30am Partnered with Aberdeen City Council, Registered with the Care Inspectorate and member of Early Years Scotland

Aberdeen Wanderers RFC Rugby Union for all ages and abilities

Full time gardener

required for private garden in Cults for landscaping projects and general maintenance.

Jason White Pavilion, Groats Road, Aberdeen

Weekly training sessions for people of all ages run by trained coaches and volunteers from the local community. With players learning skills in different areas such as fitness, agility and discipline, our club is a great place to meet new people and have fun.

All equipment and materials will be provided. Previous relevant experience preferred.

Flexible hours. Hourly rate £10/hr.

Trades need not apply. Call 07506 748644

There are different sessions for different age groups: •

Minis and Micros (P1— P7) - Saturday 10:00-11:30am (boys and girls)

•

U13, U14 & Girls Section (U15 & U18) - Wednesday 6:30—8:00pm

•

U15, U16 & U18 - Tuesday & Thursday 6:30-8:00pm

•

Seniors (adult male) - Tuesday & Thursday 6:30-8:30pm

Proudly working with

Everyone is welcome, no experience necessary!

To find out more contact us via @AberdeenWandRFC /AberdeenWanderers www.aberdeenwanderers.com info@aberdeenwanderers.com #aswands

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 17

C ults

M edical

G roup

A berdeen , tel: 0845 337 1140

:

S outh

ab 1 5

avenue ,

9 l Q

fax: 01224 860171

It is flu season again and we are currently running clinics at the surgery on a Saturday morning and throughout the week. If you are over 65 years of age or have received a letter or text message from the practice, please call the surgery or ask the reception staff next time you visit us.

The drop-in baby clinics at Cults Medical Group which are held on a Wednesday will be stopping in the near future. This change is happening across Grampian as the health visiting teams follow the Universal Health Visiting Pathway in Scotland.

This programme consists of eleven health visitor visits to all families from birth up to the age of five years old.

Nurse Emily goes on maternity leave next month. We welcome Pauline Melvin to the practice to cover Emily’s time off. Pauline is a very experienced nurse who has worked in the A&E Department at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. We wish them both well.

The staff at Cults Medical Group joined in “the world’s biggest coffee morning” in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support on 26th September. We raised over £150 by selling our home bakes. Thanks to all the patients who bought our baking and well done to all the staff for their hard work.

The surgery will be closed on the afternoon of Thursday, 9th November for Protected Learning Time. We will also be closed on 25th and 26th December and 1st and 2nd January. In case of an urgent medical emergency during those times, please contact NHS24 on 111.

Tracey Wilson Practice Manager

80% of

women are affected by unwanted facial and body hair - are you one of them?

Apilus Platinum Pure Electrolysis treatments can put YOU in the 20% Jenny, a former nurse, is an electrologist specialist with 16yrs experience. » 27Mhz radio frequency to permanently & rapidly eliminate ALL hair types of ANY colour » works twice as fast as any other epilator by optimising energy concentration in the hair follicle » more comfortable - the 27Mhz radio frequency so swift & concentrated that treatments are much more comfortable than conventional electrolysis » incomparable effectiveness & comfort

First Apilus Platinum Pure in Aberdeen

tel : 01224 594777 text: 07843 054 393 Page 18

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18 A1 Poster - Electrolysis 2017.indd 1

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

01-Feb-17 1:54:57 PM

Dedicated to Dance

A

former pupil of Cults Academy is on the way to realizing her ambition to dance professionally as she performed at a dance festival in India this summer. Twentyyear-old Clara Cowen took part in the ‘Dance Bridges’ Festival in Calcutta with the National Youth Dance Company of Scotland (NYDCS). The NYDCS was created to showcase young dancers, age 16-21, with exceptional talent. Places are highly competitive in this prestigious group and dancers must make a commitment to train and perform with them for a year. Only twelve of these talented young performers travelled to India.

Clara’s dancing journey began at the early age of three and a half when she started ballet classes at Aberdeen’s Danscentre. She credits the influence of both Karen Berry and Michelle Whyte of Danscentre as contributing to the success she has so far had. They saw her potential and pushed her to excel. Attending up to seven classes a week after school, Clara sat her RAD grade 8 at just sixteen years old, achieving a result of 98%. Although Clara also enjoyed Modern and Contemporary Dance, Danscentre’s focus on Ballet and traditional techniques gave her the solid grounding required to be accepted at one of the UK’s most prestigious dance schools. On leaving Cults Academy, Clara auditioned for London’s Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. Aged only seventeen, she was accepted a week later. Laban emphasizes the roles of creativity and movement in its teaching and students often practice for up to eight hours a day. Clara has just started her third and final year at Trinity Laban but, in order to honour her commitment and train with NYDCS, has also been travelling from London to Glasgow every month. In 2017, Clara has performed with NYDCS in Dundee, Glasgow, Birmingham and Dublin. To dance professionally requires tremendous dedication but Clara says she can’t imagine a life without dancing, adding: “It allows emotions which I only experience through dance as it involves all of your body and mind. With adrenalin pumping, its all encompassing physicality makes me feel so alive!”

Over the summer, Clara joined Youth Dance’s summer project, ProjectY. After working closely with four choreographers, the group created and rehearsed four new dances. One of the performances saw Clara perform in front of family and friends at the Lemon Tree, as part of Aberdeen’s Youth Festival. She then headed off to India as part of the only youth dance company performing at Calcutta’s festival.

Their dance for India was entitled, ‘Re/place (Or, the thing I miss most)’.

Performing and travelling are part of Clara’s future plans. She is looking forward to developing as a dancer and hopes to eventually apply her skills to choreographing her own pieces.

Photographs are courtesy of Paul Watt Photography/YDance To find out more about NYDCS and ProjectY, go to www.ydance.org

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 19

I

have to start this contribution with a huge thank you to all of you who came and joined us at our busiest ever Open Day during the last holiday weekend. The sun shone and children played everywhere while Mums and Dads enjoyed the home baking and BBQ! It was, as one person wrote, “…. a lovely afternoon, so many happy, excited faces …. Camphill changes lives and brings hope and fulfilment to so many, look forward to next year.” Special thanks to the Culter Pipe Band who every year come and give the event that festive spirit with their enthusiastic playing.

This year we have again welcomed co-workers from throughout the world - they bring so much to our life. We are concerned about the possible implications of Brexit as we have a huge number of Europeans both as volunteers and as long-term workers.

In October, we will host a visit of the Scottish Government’s Independent Child Care Review team who are reviewing all aspects of child care.

We hope to be able to offer them an insight into our unique way of living and working with children and young people with additional support needs while, at the same time, sharing with them how our two integrated classes work to make inclusion a reality. Linked to this, we will be participating in the first AGM of the Social Pedagogy Professional Association, as we link with others across the UK to promote a strength-based positive relational way of working that we and colleagues aspire to apply in our daily lives in our interactions with others.

This year will also see us celebrating the 70th anniversary of the founding of the educational impulse within Camphill. The founders believed that it was the right of every child to receive an education and the first school lesson took place on 13th October 1947. Few will recall that back in the 1940s many children were considered to be ineducable and Camphill became one of the first schools in the UK to offer such children education in an inclusive manner, as they were in classes together with the coworkers’ children and other local children. (It was only in the 1970s that national legislation was passed giving every child the right to education.)

While much has changed since then, there will no doubt be some among you who will be aware that there remain many children excluded from ‘mainstream’ education and whose parents still need to fight for this right for their children - there is much to do!

Finally, if you would like us to provide a speaker for whichever group you may be part of, please do not hesitate to contact me, Laurence Alfred, at l.alfred@crss.org.uk

Local Advice, National Awards Granite Financial Planning Ltd is delighted to offer award winning independent financial advice to Milltimber, Bieldside and Cults residents.

Formed by Managing Director and Chartered Financial Planner, Paul Gibson, the company offers advice in a range of areas: • • • •

Financial Planning Investment Advice Retirement Planning Estate Planning and Long Term Care*

Paul Gibson (centre) receiving his 2016 Financial Planner of the Year award from TV personality Chris Hollins

Paul is currently the FT Money Management Financial Planner of the Year, retaining the title he won last year when he became the first ever Scottish recipient of the award. He has also been a category winner or runner-up on six previous occasions reflecting his varied areas of expertise.

Contact us for a free initial consultation.

f inancial planning ltd 01224 781280 | enquiries@granitefp.co.uk | www.granitefp.co.uk

* Not all estate planning is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Granite Financial Planning Ltd, Banchory Business Centre Burn O’Bennie Road, Banchory, Aberdeenshire AB31 5ZU Granite Financial Planning is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Page 20

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Cults Cricket Club

S

eason 2017 has finally drawn to a rather soggy completion. A more than inclement summer has meant that not all the games at the Allan Park could be completed. Wet, green and soft is probably the best it was all season. The grass never really dried out as the rain became even more persistent during the season. Many strips were prepared and not used. Net practice was also a lottery.

The club captain, Aqeel Ajazi, did his usual fine job in a difficult season finishing mid-table. The poor weather and lack of practice did not help.

Most 1st XI games were played. The 2nd XI raised a side on many occasions but the weather intervened. When we had a side, it rained and vice versa. The Evening League side fared better and played most of their games at Cults and won their cup final at Mannofield.

The club now enters its usual status of hibernation, well your treasurer and groundsman certainly does. There is work to be done over the winter, namely: player recruitment; restart of the junior section; the financial situation to be addressed. The Management Committee will be busy.

If you wish to play, provide financial assistance, coach seniors and juniors or assist in any fashion please contact myself.

Ian Sutherland – Treasurer and Groundsman, Cults CC Tel: 07815637407, email: thesutherlandfamily@btinternet.com Allan Park, Cults After the dreadful flooding of winter 2015/16, there has been some major upgrades to the ground. The new play area is now in full use and is receiving fulsome praise from the park users. The new slide has proved extremely popular with all ages, especially the cricket club groundsman!

There are more park benches, a picnic table and the broken boundary fence has been repaired. The Friends of the Allan Park and Cults CC will continue to work with Aberdeen City Council to further improve amenities at that gem of a ground, the Allan Park. Please see the article on the Allan Park from Iain Clark for more information.

One point I must raise about the Allan Park is the constant and continual dog fouling. This is unnecessary, most unwelcome and quite frankly disgusting. It is not the dogs’ fault, just the owners’. I really object to having to go around the ground, before I can work on it, with a shovel cleaning up dog mess. The players have to do the same on match day.

Please clean up after Muttly. There are plenty of bins for the waste.

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 21

Cults Library News

Reflecting Light

Bookbug sessions continue to be popular at the library for preschool children and their carers. Our next session dates are 13 November, 11 December and 8 January. Sessions start at 2pm and there is no need to book a place, just come ready to share some songs, stories and rhymes. Newcomers are always welcome and please don’t hesitate to contact the library if you have any questions about sessions. The Scottish Book Trust website has recently been updated with more rhymes and songs for you to try at home: http://www.scottishbooktrust.com/ bookbug

Of days of sunshine, Sometimes with heavy rain, Of lengthening daylight, And early morning rays.

Bookbug sessions are part of the wider Bookbug programme, which encourages parents to spend time bonding with their children and also helps develop children’s language and communication skills. This year we will be participating in the Bookbug Picture Book prize. Read the three shortlisted titles and cast your vote at the library. The shortlisted titles this year are: ‘Little Owl’s Egg’

by Debi Glori; ‘The Fourth Bonniest Baby In Dundee’ by Michelle Sloan and Kasia Matyjaszek; and ‘Gorilla Loves Vanilla’ by Chae Strathie. If your child is in primary one they will be gifted a copy of the shortlisted titles in their primary one family bag which will be handed out in schools during Book Week Scotland (27 November – 3 December). Copies of the shortlisted books are also available to borrow from the library. All libraries will have a voting box or alternatively you can vote using our Facebook or Instagram accounts. For more information see the library website or ask library staff during your next visit.

Christmas is just around the corner and we are getting ready to celebrate it in the library. We will be holding a story and craft session on 14 December at 3:30pm for children aged 5 -10. Booking is essential. See below for contact details.

The staff at Cults Library would like to wish you a Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Cults Library can be contacted via email at Cultsibrary@aberdeencity.gov.uk.

Our phone number is 01224 868346 and our website is www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/ library

Of happy holidays, Away by car, train, plane, Photographs taken …....

In warm sunny places.

Night stealthily creeps, Earlier and earlier.

A chill wind blows across, As temperatures fall.

Stay sunshine, longer yet, In the lower sky.

Your glorious colours, Light up my inner being.

By Margaret Cook

The Dog Shed provides a professional, friendly service in a relaxed atmosphere, a�ending to all of your dog’s grooming needs.

Services Include: Full Groom from £35.00 Hand Stripping from £40.00 De-Shedding Treatment from £35.00 Bath and Dry from £25.00 Puppy Package £20.00 Teeth Cleaning £5.00 Nail Trimming £5.00 Prices vary depending on Breed, Size and coat condi�on.

For booking and enquiries please call 07646 556313 Email – thedogshedgrooming@hotmail.com The Dog Shed is located at 4 Binghill Park, Mill�mber, Aberdeen, AB13 0EE

@thedogshedgroomingservices

Page 22

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Mistletoe Therapy - Fizz and Fun Fundraiser …yes we had fizz, yes we had fun but the main point…. look at the funds raised…an amazing £4500 and counting! We held an open house event in August to raise funds for the first UK pilot study on the benefits of Mistletoe Therapy for cancer patients.

Many people have benefitted locally from this complementary cancer treatment at Camphill Medical Centre, Bieldside. Now we wanted to increase awareness of mistletoe therapy and support the UK study.

The afternoon was defined by: Generosity, Fun & Friendship.

Thank you to all those who were part of this event! From friends, family, local businesses and suppliers ... We could not have done this without you.

To find out more about Mistletoe research and ways of supporting, search online for: ‘virgin money mistletoe research’ Thank you!

From Jackie Connon, Jayne Leith, Julie Skene & Susan Gordon (shown in photo) Other photos show Dr Geider and band, ‘Swing the Cat’

Camphill Wellbeing Trust is a medical charity which aims to support an extended approach to health and wellbeing.

We offer therapeutic options to address illness, improve resilience and maintain wellbeing.

Our particular expertise includes: 

Learning disabilities,



Children’s health: 0-18 years



Chronic conditions,



Mistletoe therapy

including autism, ADHD

e.g. ME, stress, allergies

To find out more, contact us on: 01224 862008 or by email: admin@cwt.scot

www.camphillwellbeing.org.uk Camphill Wellbeing Trust is a business name of Camphill Medical Practice Ltd A limited company registered in Scotland No.SC120539 Charity No. SC016291 Registered office: St John’s, Murtle Estate, Bieldside, Aberdeen AB15 9EP

www.camphillwellbeing.org.uk

01224 862008

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

Camphill Wellbeing Trust is a business name of Camphill Medical Practice Ltd A limited company registered in Scotland No.SC120539 Charity No. SC016291 Registered office: St John’s, Murtle Estate, Bieldside, Aberdeen AB15 9EP

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 23

W

ithin Police Scotland’s North East Division, there are community policing teams who are supported by dedicated Crime Reduction Officers. These teams promote crime reduction and progress prevention opportunities which we see as key to reducing crime and antisocial behaviour in your area.

Whilst crime reduction advice is regularly provided to individuals who raise a specific query, an exciting new innovation called Neighbourhood Alert has been established. It affords Police Scotland the opportunity to send e-mail messages, relating to local crime trends and containing crime prevention advice, quickly and effectively to a wide audience, but which can be targeted to particular streets, or communities, if required.

Any individual can sign-up to receive these e-mail messages, either for themselves or their community group. The sign-up process allows the recipient to specify the type of information that they are interested in and from what source. Neighbourhood Watch Scotland, who coordinate this resource, work with a range of partners in the public sector to provide information not only on crime but also on matters of community safety and resilience.

These messages are intended to inform the public and to keep them abreast of information which will assist them in keeping themselves, their families and their properties safe. For this reason, we will only send out messages if we feel it is important that the public receive the information and are then able to use it effectively in their daily lives.

Please take the opportunity to sign-up for Neighbourhood Alert e-mail messages and encourage your family, friends and neighbours to do the same. The more people who sign-up to receive these alerts, the more effective these messages will become as they allow communities to become better informed and make better decisions.

There is no requirement to join or set up a Neighbourhood Watch, simply follow the link below to the registration instructions. By signing up, you control your personal information, contact details and also decide from whom you want to receive Alerts. https://member-registration.neighbourhoodalert.co.uk/91/Join

Page 24

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

T

he summer has been kind to our planting and the static planters are still showing a reasonable display. Autumn sees the end of the hanging baskets and again we have had a good show this year.

I am happy to report that following the appeal in the last edition of the MBC News donations have been coming in, but in a trickle rather than a flood. There is enough for the static planter display but only sufficient for about half the hanging baskets. We are therefore still asking for donations from residents and/or businesses, by the end of this year to ensure that we have enough funds to order hanging baskets and plants for next year.

There are three ways to donate.

Cheques, made payable to CBMCC Blooms may be sent to Treasurer Graham Payne at 501 North Deeside Road, Cults AB15 9ES. Payments may be made at a bank or on-line to the account CBMCC Blooms, sort code 80-06-19, A/c 10168368.

Donations may be made with a credit card by visiting the community website at http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbcbm-donate/.

The ideal solution for a sustainable display is to consider setting up a standing order for a few pounds each year. The web page will allow you to do this. So, if you have liked what you have seen these past few years and would like the programme to continue please consider a small donation. Larger donations are also very welcome!!

Open 10am - 5pm 01224 862690

Sonya Angus

The Courtyard, Cults, AB15 9SD www.sonyaangus.com

GIFTS. FURNITURE. INTERIORS.

facebook.com/sonyaangusshop

PRET A PORTER

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 25

Page 26

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

MBC Festival 2017

Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!

W

e want to thank everyone who participated in the MBC Festival this year. We had our biggest programme yet and are delighted to report that all events were well attended.

We are grateful to all the individuals, churches, groups, clubs and charities that provided events for the 2017 programme – there are so many, it’s hard to name individuals without risking offending others! Many of these groups provide events year after year, and are core to the programme. This year, the committee supplemented this with a range of new events - experimenting with new ideas, locations and formats. We would love to hear feedback from local residents regarding their experiences and find out what improvements could be made.

Please contact us via email mbcfestival@cbmcommunity.org.uk or via Facebook www.facebook.com/mbcfestival.

A quick summary of the 2017 MBC Festival: Maureen Watt performed the official opening of the Festival at the Phoenix Centre. The Art Exhibition was well attended and magnificently supported by the Milltimber Playgroup (who provided refreshments) and local pianists. Sandie Youngson’s “Isle of Harris” painting won the People’s Choice vote.

This year’s Beetle Drive had double the attendees compared to 2016, with a number of young families joining in. It was a very sociable (read: noisy!) evening with delicious pizza served in the interval. Great fun!

The Rock Choir concert attracted up to 150 attendees. We are grateful to Nicola Cain and the Choir for agreeing to put on the show, and also to Kent Walker and Ian Williamson from the ISA who assisted us with running the event.

The Family Fun Run had up to 140 participants (from 30 family groups); everyone indicated that they would love this to become an annual event! The Fun Run was the brainchild of Active Schools Coordinator John Dixon, and we are hugely grateful to the NHS Health Improvement Fund team for their financial support. The runners helped swell attendance, and funds raised, at the Hillview Church Afternoon Tea too! (£192 raised and sent to the MacMillan Cancer Relief charity) We knew that Andy Hall would attract a crowd and, indeed, it was a sell-out event. Thanks go to Andy for agreeing to take part and to the Bowling Club for allowing us to take over the club for the evening!

A number of events were run by members of the Cults Parish Church. The Atholl Smith Jazz Band concert, Calligraphy/Flower Exhibition, Cake Off Competition and Silent Auction were all well attended and provided opportunities for the local community to meet up while having a fun time together. The Family Fun Day at St Devenicks Church was blessed with glorious weather and there was loads to do for all who attended.

We want to thank the team at the Cults Library for hosting our Logo Competition (we’ll announce the winner in the next edition of MBC News). The library also ran a Storytelling event for us which was well received by local families.

We had a number of small ‘walking’ events in the programme. We would like to acknowledge the staff at Newton Dee and Cairnlee House who were so welcoming during their tour events. Community Councillors, Sarah and Christine, managed to dodge the showers and led a group of 13 around the Cults Heritage spots. Petra Vergunst’s reading of her poem “Embrace” as part of a walk in Foggieton Woods was also well received.

The Tennis Club and the local Friskis&Svettis group both reported new attendees at their ‘open’ events. Of course, new members are welcome at any time – so please, make contact with them if you missed the opportunity to have a go during the Festival.

The Leprosy Mission and Rotary Club charities have both supported the MBC Festival for many years and we are delighted that they continue to participate each year. This year’s closing event – the Cabaret Show – was another triumph and we are delighted that the majority of the funds raised will go directly to the Instant Neighbour Christmas Tree Appeal, to ensure that all children in the area have a lovely Christmas.

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 27

Page 28

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

The club walk in October to Beinn Breac was a great success with good weather after a very wet and windy couple of days beforehand. Thirty-three members went out in total: eighteen people climbed Beinn Breac; eight members did the slightly shorter walk up to the Corbett, Carn na Drochaide; and seven members completed an additional shorter walk of the Fairy Glen. Great views were seen from Beinn Breac of both Glen Lui, where we walked in, and Glen Quoich, where we walked out to finish.

Both the main walks were well over six hours, and confirmation of a great day out was had with a few drinks afterwards in the Invercauld.

New members are always welcome to come along and see the varied programme we offer. Evening meetings are normally held at Cults Community Centre starting at 7.30 pm. The club website http://www.cultshillwalkingclub.org.uk/ will has full details of all the 2017 – 2018 club walks and other activities, or contact: Chairman, Paul Dumont, tel. 01224 863938, email chair@cultshillwalkingclub.org.uk, or Membership Secretary, Judith Metcalf, tel. 01224 869572, email, membership@cultshillwalkingclub.org.uk NOV 12 DEC 7 DEC 17 JAN 4 JAN 14

Walk Meeting Walk Meeting Walk

GLEN BUCHAT Saving Scotland’s red squirrels BURN O’ VAT Iceland – Land of fire and ice (NB at Cults Kirk Centre) MORVEN

Cults Scouts “There’s a moose outside the tent” said one of the scouts. So there was - as big as a horse, probably looking for food.

Just one of the fascinating sights seen while camping in the Arctic Circle at Bodø in Northern Norway, during the summer at the Norwegian International Jamboree. Fifty scouts from the group camped with around 9,000 scouts from around the world. It seemed entirely appropriate that we should arrive at Bodø airport, in the land of the midnight sun, at midnight.

The Jamboree organisers took full advantage of the 24 hours of daylight by scheduling some activities until 2am. The highlight must have been the overnight hike on tracks overlooking the nearby fjords and meeting many scouts from other countries, especially those from Hong Kong and Australia.

The second week of the visit to Norway was spent in home hospitality with sea scouts in Stavanger. After visiting the Maritime Museum, we took to the water in scout sailing boats and canoes. More adventurous activities took place in September at the National Scout Activity Centre, Lochgoilhead. On water for sailing/canoeing and on land for climbing/abseiling and D of E Expeditions.

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

LEARN ITALIAN Why not join an Italian Class in Cults - Aberdeen?

You can choose day or evening classes: Beginner to Advanced level.

The following classes are scheduled at present: Tues 9.30 – 11.30 am Advanced Tues 2.00 – 4.00 pm Intermediate Tues 7.30 – 9.30 pm Post Beginners Wed 2.00 – 4.00 pm Beginners (New Class 17 Jan ‘18) Thurs 9.30 – 11.30 am Post Intermediate Fri 9.30 – 11.30 am Intermediate Fri 2.00 – 4.00 pm Pre Intermediate Individual lessons are also available.

For further information, please contact Enrica Conti: Tel: 07786 827714 Email: encoit@talktalk.net wwwitalianlanguageaberdeen.co.uk http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 29

Vincent HenegHan

WealtH ManageMent consultant

SERVICE

A wealth of expertise on your doorstep i provide an experienced wealth management service and offer specialist advice in a wide range of areas including: .investment

planning .Retirement Planning .inheritance tax planning

For further details contact Vincent Heneghan on:

mob: 07710 471 815 tel: 01224 202409

How it works: - Call to book a collection - Collections Mon / Weds / Fri : 7pm to 8:30pm - £2.00 combined collection/ delivery charge - 48 Hour turnaround - All items delivered on hangers with poly covers.

- Payment via Bank transfer / Cheque after delivery - Dry cleaning prices available on request -Successfully operating for over 12 months

Ironing Prices per item Gents Trousers / shirts / t shirts £1.25 Gents Jackets / Coats £2.00 Ladies Trousers / Skirts / Tops / T-shirts £1.20p Ladies Dresses £1.60 Kids - most items 0.55p Girls dresses £1.20 Bedding - Single duvet £2.00 each Double duvet £2.50 each King duvet £3.50 each Super King duvet £4.00 each Fitted sheets s £2.50/ d £3.00/ K £4.00/ SK £4.50 Pillow cover 0.50 each

Call Jill on 07888680951 'Milltimber Ironing Service' www.milltimberironingserviceaberdeen.co.uk

Email: vincent.heneghan@sjpp.co.uk Website: www.sjpp.co.uk/vincentheneghan

North Deeside Road Milltimber, Aberdeen www.kippielodge.co.uk Page 30 Untitled-2 1

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/ 13/10/2017

10:43:57

Milltimber Playgroup News It’s been another busy and exciting term for us here at Milltimber Playgroup. We’ve welcomed back a lot of returning families as well as some new faces, and all the children have all settled in well. We’re very lucky to be located right next to the park, where the children have easy access to the outdoors, with plenty of space to run, jump and play. We also have a fantastic, fully equipped hall, with toys and activity stations galore where the children can do arts and crafts, dress-up and make-believe, active play and interact with each other and staff.

Milltimber playgroup is a registered charity, funded entirely though contributions from parents and fundraising in the local community. The parents and children of the playgroup rolled up their sleeves to bake for the first fundraiser of the year; a tea room and cake sale held at the MBC Art Exhibition at Newton Dee in August.

Thanks to everyone who supported us in making this a huge success.

This term at playgroup, the children continue to learn about ‘people who help us’. We had a visit from a representative of the RNLI who taught the children all about lifeboats and what the crew do. The children also watched a short film of real rescues at sea. We were also lucky enough to have four fire fighters come to see us.

They showed us what they wear to protect themselves, told us what to do in a fire to stay safe and what number to call if we need them. They also let us explore the inside of their fire engine and take turns using their hose. And they drove off with their blue lights flashing and siren wailing! Later in the year, there are plans for an ambulance crew to visit the playgroup. The children are also learning about their senses, doing blindfolded taste tests on some foods and guessing what the foods are, by describing their tastes and textures.

About Milltimber Playgroup and Forest School We operate from the Milltimber Community Association Hall. In addition to our weekday morning sessions, we also offer an optional lunch club and a wraparound service which transports children to Milltimber School Nursery’s afternoon session if required, providing seamless child care from 0915 to 1535, Monday to Friday. We also offer the wrap around transportation service from Milltimber school morning nursery and lunch club for our Friday afternoon Forest School session, which means child care from 0830 to 1440.

There is currently space in some sessions. Please contact our playgroup manager Julie McWilliam on 07740 575273 or email milltimberplaygroup@hotmail.com to find out more or to arrange to visit and meet the staff. We look forward to welcoming you!

The children have been making the most of the recent wet weather at our Wednesday and Friday Forest Schools; having fun in the mud kitchen making muddy chocolate brownies, mud soups and mud cakes! They have also been enjoying outdoor storytelling, finding slug and snail friends and discovering the changes outside as summer turns to autumn.

Discussions continue with Aberdeen City Council with the aim of funding and building a refurbished play area near the Community Hall, for the benefit of the playgroup and the whole village. We are currently going through the well-established consultation process to ensure that the new area is optimally designed for the needs of everyone wanting to play.

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 31

Milltimber Scout Group News Autumn 2017 The Milltimber Scout Group have been taking part in a full programme of activities and community events this autumn.

Our Beavers have been working on their Navigator Badge and four have achieved their Chief Scout Bronze Award.

They also joined the District Spooky Walk at Templars’ Park in October and are planning to go on the District cinema trip in November.

Our Cubs had a hike in the ground of Crathes Castle and a successful camp at Templar’s Park in September with a Science theme. Six Cubs have achieved their Chief Scout Silver Award and some took part in a day of challenge activities at Templars’ Park, also known as “I’m a Cub – Get Me Out of Here!”

Our Scouts participated in the District Patrol Camp at Templars’ Park in September, winning the Inspection Trophy - a great achievement for all who took part! They

are looking forward to the ‘Mission Impossible’ night games and camp in November.

Members of our Group will be taking part in a community bulb planting project in the Milltimber Area and joining other youth groups in the area for the Remembrance Day parade and service at Peterculter Parish Church.

Finally, our Group Executive Committee with the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts are preparing for our annual St Nicholas Fayre in the Milltimber Community Hall on Sunday 3rd December and everyone will be welcome to visit the stalls and enjoy some festive refreshments.

Geoff Weighill, Group Scout Leader 65th Aberdeen (Milltimber) Scout Group

Starting To Shrink

Give your roof a new look...

After

The patients in his new job fascinate Douglas and he gets along well with quirky colleagues.

Douglas treats several intriguing patients, helping some and floundering with others.

Five patients feature in some detail and they have diverse conditions: depression, bipolar disorder, anorexia nervosa, anxiety and personality disorder.

He becomes close friends with his flatmate, Chris, who is also a trainee psychiatrist. They both drink rather too much. The other backdrop to Douglas’s working life is his dysfunctional family. The family has struggled since the death of Douglas’s mother, and her death resonates with him during the illness of a depressed elderly woman.

Before

Services Provided by Patricio: High pressure cleaning and roof repairs Pointing and Valley re-cementing repairs External Painting Eave Painting Unblocking of Gutters Removal of lichen and moss from roofs, patios and driveways!

Roof tile coatings with acryol nulife waterproofing solutions Clear sealer or up to five colours available terracotta, brown, green, grey or red

Contact: Patricio Cepeda today Landline: 01224 646866 Mobile: 07739 690 575 Page 32

Starting To Shrink is the title of the first (and quite possibly the last) novel written

by Milltimber resident, John Eagles. Set in Scotland in the 1980’s, the book chronicles the first year in the career of a young psychiatrist, Dr Douglas Barker.

It is during his psychotherapy post that Douglas’ career is put in jeopardy.

One of his patients alleges that they have had a sexual relationship. He is called to a GMC hearing with the strong possibility that he will be struck off the medical register.

Apart from keeping the author off the streets following his retirement after working as a psychiatrist in Aberdeen for 30 years, the book has other motives. First and foremost, one hopes that it is an interesting, and sometimes amusing, story that moves along at a good pace. It is also designed to shine a light upon what it is like to work in psychiatry, albeit a generation ago, since the profession is probably mysterious to many. There is a national shortage of psychiatrists, and our Royal College has been on a recruitment drive for the last ten years or so. It is to be hoped that reading this book might just influence a medical student, or a young person contemplating a medical career, towards thinking that a career in psychiatry is likely to be fun, fascinating and hugely rewarding.

From 31st October, Starting To Shrink should be available in book shops and online.

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Milltimber School PTA Update and Countdown to Christmas…

Hello from Milltimber PTA! As you read this, the evenings will have drawn in and you will be starting to turn your mind towards planning for Christmas. The Milltimber School Christmas Market on Friday 24th November will be just the event to get you into the Christmas Spirit! To help you start (and maybe even finish) your Christmas shopping, there will be stalls from a whole range of businesses, including unique gift stalls such candles, jewellery, handmade chocolates, Younique make-up, creative textiles and craft items. There will also be food, drinks, crafts and games, including Guess the Weight of the Christmas Cake, to keep everyone entertained. We will also see the much anticipated return of the House Tombola Competition, which proved such a success with both pupils and visitors at previous Christmas Markets that it is back by popular demand.

It is also expected that there will be a visit from a very welcome guest in a bright red suit with a bushy white beard. We have made a special request that the children be allowed to get their photograph taken with Mr and Mrs Claus.

The Christmas Market will be held in Milltimber School Hall from 6.30 to 9pm on Friday 24th November. Our doors will be open to the whole community with a special welcome to the Market being provided by Milltimber Scout Group and Rock Choir who will be getting us all into the festive spirit with their carol singing. Tickets for the market can be purchased on the door.

The first term of the school year has been a busy one for the PTA as we have been welcoming new parents to the school, as well as running our first fund-raising activities and events. These have included: Spree Book sales, Bingo Night, Bags 2 School, and the first School Disco of the year.

In September we hosted a Family Bingo night at Kippie Lodge, which was a huge success and generated over £1300 - thank you to everyone who came along! Individual thanks to Kippie for a tremendous night and for all the families who supported this event - we couldn’t have done it without you. A big shout out to the Companies who donated raffle prizes: The Marcliffe at Pitfodels, Costa Coffee, The Dolls House, The Ashvale Restaurant, Aberdeen Football Club, James Dun’s House, Jump in, Mains of Drum, Hoodles, Transition Extreme, Boutique Beauty, Anjools, The Bieldside Inn, Dominos, The Raemoir Garden Centre, Satrosphere, Paul Lawrie Golfing Centre, Den and the Glen, Maryculter House Hotel, the Co-op and McGinty’s bar - Thank you!

We hope the Christmas Market will be well-supported by parents and the wider community. We look forward to welcoming you - please come along to the school and help us to kick-start a happy festive season on Friday 24th November.

Milltimber PTA

Auchterdeen Ltd

Milltimber PTA

Personal Support for your Personal Computer in Lower Deeside

Christmas Market

D r o p o ff o r h o m e v i s i t

         

Business & home users Mac Computer set up Windows Virus removal iPads Advice on what to buy iPhones Help with your website iPad/iPhone/iTunes support One-to-one help Contact Val Muir: 01224 735001 Email account set up val@auchterdeen.scot System restore & recovery www.auchterdeen.scot Printer installation

The fooT lady yvonne m thomson

Friday 24 November 2017 Friday 27th November Milltimber School 6.30pm to 9.00pm

Craft Stalls, Tombola, Mince Pies and refreshments Visit SANTA in his Grotto

mcshp mashp

HOME VISITING PRACTICE EST 1998 NEW PATIENTS WELCOME

Tel: 07752 865 918 MEMBER OF THE BRITISH CHIROPODY AND PODIATRY ASSOCIATION

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

Tickets can be bought at the Door Adult entry - £4 each (includes Tea / Coffee & mince pie) – all children must be accompanied by an adult Primary child entry – free / Secondary School Child entry £1 each

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 33

My Ramsay Round Obsession by Dave Thompson

I

n July 2015, I completed the Bob Graham Round (BGR) in the Lake District with 27,000 feet of ascent and a 66-mile circuit of 42 peaks in 22 hours and 52 minutes. I was raising money for Barnardo’s at the time and MBC News kindly published my article that raised further sponsorship. The BGR was, in fact, a prelude to a bigger dream I had and that was to complete the Ramsay Round. For both the BGR and the Ramsay Round, the challenge is to complete each Round in less than 24 hours.

The Ramsay Round was devised by Charlie Ramsay consisting of 23 Munros in Lochaber including 28,500 feet of ascent. Charlie completed the 58-mile challenge in 23 hours and 58 minutes in July 1978 and the Ramsay Round was born! The Round is considered one of the most difficult in the UK. Although shorter in distance than the BGR, it is far more difficult because of the poor and often nonexistent paths and also the sheer remoteness.

I committed to training, starting in November 2015, peaking at around 20 hours per week with about 15,000 feet of ascent. I certainly did not have the time to be driving into the mountains every week with a busy job and a family, so focused on running in Cults and Bieldside during the week with early morning runs up and down the hilly roads like Quarry Road, Netherby Road and Baillieswells Road. At dawn on Saturday mornings it would be Scolty Hill (I think 17 reps up and down was my record!). For long mountain days, I would do many reps on the hills around Loch Muick and Glen Clova.

Sadly, at the start of 2016 my Dad received the dreadful news that he had cancer and was given approximately six months to live. I continued with my training and this was interspersed with trips to Norfolk to see my Dad. He eventually passed away peacefully at the start of June. I know my Dad would have wanted me to fulfill my ambition so I still went ahead at the end of July to attempt the Round. Unfortunately, after 11 hours my headtorch batteries died during the night section and I discovered to my horror that two of the three spare batteries had fallen from my waist pack earlier in the run. I managed to make it to a nearby Bothy and spent a cold night shivering under my emergency blanket and made it back to Glen Nevis in the morning light. I decided that I would try again the next year.

My Ramsay Round training started again in November 2016. Often out of the house by 5.30am for a two-hour-run in the dark with our loveable working cocker spaniel, Sky. I could therefore no longer train on the roads in Cults and Bieldside during the week and I would do 14 hill reps on the Newton Dee road/track and 14 reps on the slope near the Sunnyside Livery Stables in Milltimber. Needless to say, Sky looked at me in exasperation at times when he considered it time to go home!

On the 19th June, I was ready for my second Ramsay Round attempt.

It was very warm and hard going up Ben Nevis. By the third Munro, I started getting cramp which was highly unusual and worrying. The cramp continued and after a nasty tumble on boulders I decided to save my legs for another day and diverted to Spean Bridge.

My third attempt was on the 11th July. This time it all went relatively well until I started descending from the final Munro. I missed two vital short cuts and ended up fighting through thick undergrowth to reach the Glen Nevis road. I finished at the Youth Hostel in 24 hours and 7 minutes - I was quite literally decimated!! I had scratches all over my face and legs, to the extent that a German couple on holiday wanted to make sure that I was okay. Physically I was but emotionally I was incredibly depressed. I decided I was not going to attempt it again and concentrated on having a lovely family holiday instead.

After a week, the physical and emotional pain had subsided and I started thinking about giving it another go. On returning to Scotland from holiday I waited for a suitable weather window but it seemed to constantly rain in Lochaber. My opportunity came on Friday 1st September. I would need to contend with nearly nine hours of darkness and I was also recovering from a bad cold and sore right foot. My secret weapon was a totally positive commitment that this time I would do it!

All went well until the night section, I lost the path a couple of times but fortunately did not lose too much time. When first light arrived, it was great to start seeing my surroundings again. After my previous problems descending Mullach nan Coirean and taking incorrect routes to the Glen Nevis path, this time it went well.

I left nothing to chance and kept my pace up and realised that after 23 hours and 45 minutes I was going to make it, reaching the Youth Hostel in 23:49:28. My Ramsay Round obsession was over and I was elated at fulfilling my dream!!

Dave Thompson

Introducing the qtr pg banner ad It costs £60 for a single issue or £220 for four issues

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/ Page 34

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Deeside Local Food Festival 2017 We were delighted to see so many of you at the Deeside Local Food Festival in September.

Now in its third year the festival has grown from strength to strength. With over 60 local food producers, vendors and community groups exhibiting and 3,500 visitors attending, the event was a wonderful celebration of local food.

The festival’s local produce market was buzzing from the moment the doors opened.

Visitors enjoyed tasting and buying a wide range of local produce on offer as well as meeting the farmers, growers and producers living close by. Handmade cheese, locally reared meat, artisan breads, fruity jams, spicy relishes, homegrown veg, drinking shrubs, home-baked cakes and locally distilled spirits were just some of the products available on the day.

The playground at Cults Academy was transformed into a Street Café where visitors could choose from the wonderful selection of freshly-cooked lunch on offer while watching local singers and musicians perform. To complement our health theme there were fitness demos from local groups, a climbing wall, bike track, inflatable hockey pitch and activities including football, golf and tennis run by our main event sponsor Kippie Lodge. Youngsters also enjoyed a whole range of fun activities, from biscuit decorating and fruit-kebab making, through to ‘feel the foods’ quiz and milking a mechanical cow!

Many thanks to St Devenick’s Playgroup, 21st Aberdeen (Cults) Beaver Scouts, Messy Church, Slow Food Aberdeen City and Shire, CMB Community Council, RNCI and Gardening4Kids for creating so much foodie fun!

Craig Wilson, from Eat on the Green, involved both special guests as well as members of the public in his cooking demonstrations this year. In the morning, Craig hosted ‘Sunday Brunch with Friends’ with Lauren Mitchell from Northsound 1’s breakfast show and guests Jimmy Buchan, Tom Abel, Ellie Sinclair and Lindsay Craig. In the afternoon he was joined by Professor Alex Johnstone, from The Rowett Instuite, and local residents to cook healthy recipes using local ingredients.

New to the event this year was the addition of cookery workshops, run by The Mixing Bowl Aberdeen, where visitors could put on an apron, roll up their sleeves and get involved with the creation of food themselves. Both the Kids Pizza Making Workshops with Lesley Gillespie and the Truffle and Energy Bar Making Workshops with Caroline Allen were extremely popular and lots of fun.

Another highlight of the festival was a pop up cinema showing our specially created ‘Meet the Producer’ film by local young talent, Adam Walker. This compelling film was a big hit and it brought the local producers’ food stories right into the heart of the event.

Thank you to everyone involved in this year’s festival and for making it such a huge success. In particular many thanks to our team of wonderful volunteers who generously gave their time and enthusiasm on the day; without them the event would not be possible. We are extremely grateful to our sponsors who made the festival possible through their funding, in particular Kippie Lodge, The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa, Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership, The Deesidedly Tasty Company, Cala Homes, SWFPA, Robertsons, Scotmid, CMB Community Council and MBC News.

PODIATRY / CHIROPODY

TOR-NA-DEE

FOR ALL YOUR FOOT CARE NEEDS

COUNSELLING

ACUPUNCTURE

TALKING THERAPY FOR LIFE’S PROBLEMS

BACK AND JOINT PAIN RELIEF

USUI REIKI NATURAL RELAXATION & STRESS REDUCTION

WESTHILL HEALTH & DIETITIAN THERAPIES PRACTICE

CARING FOR YOU - FROM TOP TO TOE

IMPROVED WELL BEING BY DIET

PHYSIOTHERAPY

MASSAGE THERAPY MUSCLE PAIN AND STRESS RELIEF

DECEMBER 3th 2-4 pm

RESTORING MOVEMENT AND FUNCTION

REFLEXOLOGY PAIN AND STRESS RELIEF

Entrance £3,-

UNIT 5 WESTHILL INTEGRATED SPORTS APPOINTMENT AVAILABLE SHOPPING CENTRE WESTHILLPODIATRY@GMAIL.COM INJURY CLINIC MONDAY TO SATURDAY

TEA and CAKES

01224 740885

SUNDAY

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

Includes

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Info 01224-863637

Page 35

T

he new GDFAS season is packed full of varied and intriguingly entitled lectures and every lecture will be liberally illustrated with dazzling photographs. We warmly welcome all existing members and would be delighted to see visitors who, having come once, won’t be able to resist coming back for more. The lectures begin at 7.30pm. Visitors are requested to make a £6 donation.

2017

November 8 December 6

AGM, followed by Double Dutch. Symbols, Emblems and ‘Double entendre’ in Dutch genre painting Glad Tidings: The Story of the Annunciation

2018

January 10 February 14 March 14 April 11 May 9

June 13

Vivaldi in Venice Undressing Antiques Charles Dickens: The Man and His Life through his Characters Fakes and Forgeries: The Art of Deception GDFAS Fundraiser: Earlier start at 6.30pm, followed by Gustav Klimt: Imperial Muralist turned Radical Painter Children as Artists

PLEASE NOTE THE VENUE IS Room N242, Riverside East, Sir Ian Wood Building, Robert Gordon’s University, Garthdee Road. From the Bridge of Dee, take the first left out of the roundabout along Garthdee Road. At the second set of lights after Sainsbury’s, turn left on to the RGU Campus and bear right at the first junction. The Sir Ian Wood Building is to the left of the Faculty of Health and Social Care. There are a number of car parks on the campus, some of which may involve a few minutes’ walk, so allow time for parking. Please also note, with regret we are no longer able to offer pre-lecture drinks but coffee is available on the same floor as the lecture theatre. For more information please ring Alison on 01224 869639 or Thyra on 01224 481278 or check the GDFAS website.

WESTHILL & DISTRICT COMMUNITY MINIBUS

Two Community Minibuses are available for hire by clubs and non profit-making organisations.

One bus takes 14 passengers + driver, the other takes 16 passengers + driver Driver Supplied or Self-Drive

CONTACT: DAVID RITCHIE T: 01224 744058 or 07989 637461 E: westhill.minibus@gmail.com SOX-768-50664-Aberdeen-A4-L-LAWNS-from15-PRINT.pdf

1

14/12/2015

09:54

* Professional, reliable trustworthy service, caring for pets in the comfort of their own home. * Disclosure Scotland checked and fully insured.

Page 36

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

‘Meet the Producers’ The idea of creating a film came from a throw away comment from Rachel Gambro, founder of local community cooking group, The Mixing Bowl. Rachel is also the co-founder of the Deeside Local Food Festival, an annual event, held in Cults Academy that started in 2015.

Rachel is a passionate and enthusiastic supporter of high quality, local produce and works very hard to encourage people to “eat local”. The Festival was created to bring people together and celebrate the wonderful array of fine food and drink being made right here within Aberdeen City and Shire. It is now a highly anticipated annual event in the local community calendar and an absolute must for committed “foodies”.

During a conversation with Shirley Butler, who is on the Mixing Bowl Committee, Rachel mentioned that she would love to make a film about some of our producers at work in their own environment and about the pride and passion they have for their produce. Shirley offered to contact a friend who works for a TV production company and ask him how feasible it would be........the seed was sown.

“Both of us truly enjoyed every minute and were genuinely sad when the filming was complete. We’ve seen cows milked by robots, taken part in cheese making, farmers using drones to better manage their crops and a turkey flock guarded by two alpacas. We’ve also witnessed the creation of a new distillery and seen the passion of the producers first hand. It was like living in an episode of Countryfile! We travelled around the Shire enjoying beautiful scenery, meeting inspiring people and marvelling at the incredibly sunny weather on all our filming days.” said Shirley.

The Deeside Local Food Festival in September 2017 featured a pop up cinema, complete with a popcorn stall, to premier the Film. For those who did not get a chance to see it, the next showing will be combined with a specially devised taster menu that showcases the produce featured on the film and will take place at Buchanan’s Bistro combined with Woodend Barn, Banchory, on Friday 23rd February. Please follow The Mixing Bowl on Facebook or check our website for further details and booking.

Facebook/mixingbowlaberdeen www.mixingbowlaberdeen.co.uk

Through Shirley’s friend a talented young film-maker from Aberdeen College, Adam Walker, was found. Adam was willing, and excited, to take part in the project. Rachel then engaged ten local producers who were keen to take part in the film. Following an initial meeting with each producer the camera shots and audio pieces were planned. Soon the filming schedule was drawn up and the project began in earnest.

Filming began in early May 2017 and finished in August, leaving just the final editing to be done. By the end of August, it was as they say, “in the can”. For two ladies who at the start, didn’t know one end of a clapperboard from the other, the project was interesting, fun and exciting as well as an opportunity to learn a lot.

Upcoming Events at The Mixing Bowl Aberdeen The Mixing Bowl is a community-led food interest group that is open to everyone and meets monthly for talks, tastings, demonstrations and workshops. The group also organises the annual Deeside Local Food Festival.

Details of our forthcoming events and how to book your place are shown on our website www.mixingbowlaberdeen.co.uk. All events are held at St Devenick’s Church Hall unless otherwise stated.

We look forward to seeing you there: Friday 10th November 7.00pm Friday 1st December 7.00pm Friday 19th January Friday 23rd February

Quiz and Stovies Night – raising funds for the Deeside Local Food Festival – Cults Bowling Club Christmas Cake Decorating - Fiona Mackie, demonstrator for British Sugar Craft Guild Talk and Tasting by Local Distilleries – further details TBC ‘Focus on Food’ – a special event to meet some of our local food producers, watch them at work on the film and enjoy a specially devised taster menu – further details TBC

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 37

MBC News Delivery Issue 177 We are looking for some new volunteers for the MBC News. We need someone to cover: Boiler Installation

»»

»» »»

»»

»»

Service and Repair General Plumbing Landlord Certificates CONTACT: hello@gavinoneill.co.uk 07507751217 or 01224 909142

545911

A round of 60 copies, taking in Springdale Rd. No.23 upwards, Pinecrest Circle + Drive + Walk + Gardens.

The new houses in Countesswells (around 60 copies) and The new houses in the small development on the site of the Old Waterwheel Inn (15 copies).

Delivery to houses on the north side of the North Deeside Rd. from Netherby Rd to Cults Hotel (excluding flats at old Village Garage site) Delivery to Binghill Cres #1-43 and #2-58 Milltimber (49 copies)

Gaps in other areas often come up so even if the current openings do not suit you and you’d like to help, please contact Peter Roberts email: roberts.peter53@gmail.com or Tel. 01224 868524.

Thank you.

PC Repair IT Professional

(Laptops, Desktops, Printers)

• Hardware and Software Repair

ACCOUNTING & STRATEGIC SUPPORT

• Speed up PC and Complete Virus Removal

t: 01224 869 988 www.sequoyahlimited.com info@sequoyahlimited.com

• System Restoring and Recovery

Early Stage Business Support Operational Financial Reporting

• Wireless, Cabling, Passwords Recovery,

System and Result Enhancement Investment & Disposal Strategies Senior Management & Board Level Support Accounting and Taxation Services

• Printer Problems and Repair • Free pickup only if necessary usually up to

24 hours (ON SITE same day repairs)

• No Extra fee for Driving (Aberdeenshire) • The Prices are £35 for the first hour then

seQuoyah Limited | Unit A | Station Road Business Park | Cults | Aberdeen | AB15 9PE We are always keen to hear from people who would be interested in joining the team. With flexible working arrangements available for the right candidates, we would be interested in hearing from you. If interested, please send your CV to info@sequoyahlimited.com

£30 per hour (NO-FIX-NO-FEE)

Dan Docea

Tel: 0743 6115 421

the oven valet oven cleaners

service with a sparkle*

01330 823079 07920 483 233

www.theovenvalet.com info@theovenvalet.com Page 38

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Cults Playgroup News

A

t the start of the new academic year in mid-August we welcomed new children who began the process of separating from their parents/carers, as well as faces from last year keen to settle into the playgroup routine and enjoy familiar activities.

Some warm weather enabled us to make the most of our outdoor garden. The mud pit is always popular, used by diggers and dumper trucks, turned into a mud kitchen or simply a space for digging and finding treasure or manoeuvring bricks, sticks and beach stones. The possibilities for using one’s imagination are endless. Alongside more traditional balls, hoops and skipping ropes, we have climbing frames, a wooden rocker and trikes so there is always plenty to keep the children busy.

Indoors, the art and craft table is always popular, having a variety of paints and items to glue in addition to scissors, crayons, felt pens and pencils. There has been a variety of printing done; painting our hands and making pictures with them being a favourite. The garage and cars are always popular and ramps have been made to find the fastest vehicle. The role play area has been the kitchen of a house, giving rise to discussion about what we like to eat and what is good for us. The children love to be read a story. This year our ‘Sainsbury’s’ vouchers were used for a story sack of ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ with caterpillar, cocoon, butterfly puppets and all the food items included.

All are fabulous for the children to read and play with. We were also pleased to receive new outdoor balls, bean bag scarves and coloured spots which we can jump on or off and put in order! So, thank you to everyone who donated their vouchers, it is appreciated.

Every day the children enjoy a healthy snack with milk or water. This has included potatoes harvested from the church garden which were washed, boiled and eaten with baked beans.

As part of the MBC festival, the children visited the ‘Flowers and Calligraphy Exhibition’ in the Parish Church.

The committee have already been busy with a very successful ‘Temple Spa’ evening on Thursday 14th September. Upcoming fundraising events include the ever popular ‘Burns Night Supper’ on 27th January 2018. Everyone is welcome at our events, so do come along.

Cults Playgroup runs each morning of the week at the North Hall, Quarry Road from 9.00 am until 12.10 pm. Please contact Pam on 07842 470828 during playgroup hours or email cultsplaygroup@gmail.com for further details.

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 39

Difficulty concentrating at work?

Irritable? Trouble sleeping?

Exhausted all the time? …

Then you could be suffering from ‘STRESS’!!

Scott Blair Painter & Decorator

Established 1986 Interior & Exterior Wallpapering & Ames Taping

Call. 07989211194

E. scottgeorgeblair@gmail.com

Pressure Cleaning Services,

Do you know that ‘STRESS’ is bad for the immune system?

For a no obligation quotation Tel: 01224 518508 Email: hello@smartenmydrive.com Website: www.smartenmydrive.com

Specialising in all types of pressure cleaning  Driveways, patios, walling, steps, cappings, edgings  Gutter Clearing & Debris removal  UVPC Windows, Gutters, Soffit’s, Facias & Conservatories

Help yours become stronger .. by releasing ‘stress’ with REFLEXOLOGY!!

Relax, Rebalance, Re-energise www.holistictherapyrebalance.com 07506 714 668

Exercise Classes to Music

See listing at back of MBC News for class times. or visit www.FSAberdeen.co.uk

CULTS

Improve Fitness, Flexibility and Strength Have fun !

FRISKIS&SVETTIS

FRISKIS&SVETTIS HILLVIEW

FRISKIS&SVETTIS EXERCISE HILLVIEW CULTS

Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Service If your pet is a V.I.P. to you.

They are a V.I.P. to me too!!

Call Lorraine on 01224 - 734 139 or 07875 542 284

FRISKIS&SVETTIS EXERCISE HILLVIEW CULTS

Eighth Page Size Landscape £30 for one £110 for four Page 40

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Hola from Simeon Care Since the last bulletin, Simeon has enjoyed a number of special events and occasions. Not least of which was earlier in September when the Cairnlee estate had an open day as part of the MBC Festival. Visitors were able to see the Cairnlee House workshops in action before enjoying refreshments at Simeon House. It was lovely to see so many local people coming to see how the new Simeon House has become home for our residents.

What would you like us to do?

Cults Parish Church wishes to find out where the gaps are in serving our community.

You may also have seen us on the television talking about a recent collaboration with apprentices from Standard Life Aberdeen. They chose to work with Simeon on a volunteer project to help raise funds for, and build, a new chicken coop for our feathered friends. When completed, the new accommodation will provide room for up to six retired battery hens, so they can live out their days in comfort.

Part of the Church’s mission is to meet the needs of people living in and around our parish. To this end, we built the Cults Kirk Centre on the site of the old Cults East Church.

It is now home to many organisations, for the very young to the very old, not all church related.

There are new houses going up all around, and lots of new people coming into our area. We wish to say welcome and would you, as well as you who already live here, let us know how we can make Cults Parish Church and its Centre more relevant to your needs.

One of our favourite activities recently has been Spanish lessons, provided by the social enterprise, Lingo Flamingo. The tutor, Carolina, took our residents through a ten week programme of fun exercises, using innovative and practical techniques with everyone receiving a ‘diploma’.

Please contact us at cultsparishchurch@btinternet.com, tel 01224 861140 or leave a message on our Facebook page.

We continue to welcome international volunteers who share their lives with us for up to a year. This month we have three new starts arriving from Holland, Columbia and China. Anyone wishing to volunteer or work in Simeon to join our friendly home should contact Keith Nunn, General Manager on tel 01224 862415

1 Quarry Road, Cults AB15 9EX www.cultsparishchurch.co.uk

SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP 10.30 am 1 Quarry Road, Cults AB15 9EXCrèche Crèche Under 5’s Under 5’s Jesus And Me 5 – 12 years SHED Teens

Music in the Sanctuary Sunday 19 November Sunday 21 January

‘When the Sun Goes Down’ Reflective Evening Worship in Cults Kirk 3rd Dec & 7th January at 6pm

for people with dementia, family, carers & friends. Every 2nd Tues at CKC from 10.15-11.45 am on 21st Nov, 5th Dec, 9th & 23rd.Jan Contact: Anne Meldrum 868053

MESSY CHURCH in Cults Kirk Centre - 1st Thursday Web: www.cultsparishchurch.co.uk T:869028 of each month. Contact Debbie Gordon 01224 863472 e-mail: sdebbieg@hotmail.com CHRISTMAS SERVICES

Christmas Eve 10.30am-Ninie lessons & carols 7pm- Family Service 11.30pm -Watchnight Service Christmas Day 10.30-Joint worship at Peterculter All welcome. Children bring a toy!

‘Cults Music to remember’

Office-Cults Kirk Centre 404 N Deeside Rd Web: www.cultsparishchurch.co.uk T:869028

2.30pm Erin smith(violin) Dennis Morrison(piano) Scottish Airs Traditional music 2.30pm Derek Buchan (piano)

HUB CAFÉ at CKC Tues Wed Thurs 10am3pm (Closed 25 Dec- 9th Jan ) New volunteers welcome tel 869028

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

Christmas tree festival in the Sanctuary 11-17th Dec

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 41

SOLVEIG DAHLE SMITH SOLVEIG DAHLE SMITH SOLVEIG DAHLE SMITH Cert. Pilates. Inst. MAPPI Retired physiotherapist

Cert. Pilates. Inst. MAPPI Retired physiotherapist

Cert. Pilates. Inst. MAPPI Retired physiotherapist

PILATES CLASSES PILATES CLASSES PILATES CLASSES PETERCULTER SPORTS CENTRE

PETERCULTER SPORTS CENTRE

PETERCULTER SPORTS CENTRE

CAMPHILL SCHOOL MILLTIMBER

CAMPHILL SCHOOL MILLTIMBER

CAMPHILL SCHOOL MILLTIMBER

CULTS KIRK CENTRE

CULTS KIRK CENTRE

CULTS KIRK CENTRE

Contact details solveig@pilatesaberdeen.com www.pilatesaberdeen.com 01224 861421

Contact details solveig@pilatesaberdeen.com www.pilatesaberdeen.com 01224 861421

Contact details solveig@pilatesaberdeen.com www.pilatesaberdeen.com 01224 861421

Mon & Tuesday afternoons Tues & Thursday evenings Wednesday evenings Friday mornings

Mon & Tuesday afternoons Tues & Thursday evenings Wednesday evenings Friday mornings

Mon & Tuesday afternoons Tues & Thursday evenings Wednesday evenings Friday mornings

MBCDAHLE NewsSMITH Delivery Issue 177SMITH SOLVEIG DAHLE SMITH SOLVEIG SOLVEIG DAHLE

Eighth PILATES PageCLASSES Size PILATES CLASSES PILATES CLASSES Cert. Pilates. Inst. MAPPI Retired physiotherapist

PETERCULTER SPORTS CENTRE

Portrait £30 for one £110 for four Mon & Tuesday afternoons Tues & Thursday evenings

CAMPHILL SCHOOL MILLTIMBER

Wednesday evenings

CULTS KIRK CENTRE

Friday mornings

Contact details solveig@pilatesaberdeen.com www.pilatesaberdeen.com 01224 861421

Cert. Pilates. Inst. MAPPI Cert. Pilates. Inst. MAPPI We are looking for some new volunteersRetired for thephysiotherapist MBC News. We need someone to Retired physiotherapist cover:

»» A round of 60 copies, taking in Springdale Rd. No.23 upwards, PETERCULTER SPORTS CENTRE Pinecrest Circle + Drive + Walk + Gardens.

Mon & Tuesday afternoons Mon & Tuesday afternoons »» The new houses in Countesswells (around 60 copies) and Tues & Thursday evenings Tues & Thursday evenings »» TheSCHOOL new houses in the small development on the site of the Old CAMPHILL MILLTIMBER CAMPHILL SCHOOL MILLTIMBER Wednesday Waterwheel Inn (15 copies). evenings Wednesday evenings »CULTS » Delivery toCENTRE houses on the north sideCULTS of the North Deeside Rd. KIRK KIRK CENTRE from Netherby Rd to Cults Hotel (excluding at old Village Friday mornings Fridayflats mornings Garage site) »» Delivery Binghill Cres #1-43 and #2-58 Milltimber Contact to details Contact details(49 copies) solveig@pilatesaberdeen.com solveig@pilatesaberdeen.com www.pilatesaberdeen.com Gaps in other areas often come up so www.pilatesaberdeen.com even if the current openings do not suit you 01224 861421 01224 861421 and you’ d like to help, please contact Peter Roberts email: roberts.peter53@gmail.com or Tel. 01224 868524.

Thank you.

PETERCULTER SPORTS CENTRE

SOLVEIG DAHLE SMITH SOLVEIG DAHLE SMITH SOLVEIG DAHLE SMITH Cert. Pilates. Inst. MAPPI Retired physiotherapist

Cert. Pilates. Inst. MAPPI Retired physiotherapist

Cert. Pilates. Inst. MAPPI Retired physiotherapist

PILATES CLASSES PILATES CLASSES PILATES CLASSES PETERCULTER SPORTS CENTRE

PETERCULTER SPORTS CENTRE

PETERCULTER SPORTS CENTRE

CAMPHILL SCHOOL MILLTIMBER

CAMPHILL SCHOOL MILLTIMBER

CAMPHILL SCHOOL MILLTIMBER

CULTS KIRK CENTRE

CULTS KIRK CENTRE

CULTS KIRK CENTRE

Contact details solveig@pilatesaberdeen.com www.pilatesaberdeen.com 01224 861421

Contact details solveig@pilatesaberdeen.com www.pilatesaberdeen.com 01224 861421

Contact details solveig@pilatesaberdeen.com www.pilatesaberdeen.com 01224 861421

Wednesday evenings Friday mornings

Page 42

Mon & Tuesday afternoons Tues & Thursday evenings Wednesday evenings Friday mornings

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

Mon & Tuesday afternoons Tues & Thursday evenings Wednesday evenings Friday mornings

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Photo : Dan Hodsden

Mon & Tuesday afternoons Tues & Thursday evenings

A Winter’s Tale Our outdoor season finished on Saturday 16 September. As seemed almost standard throughout the season the rain was falling. But we found a window and succeeded in playing eight ends of bowls followed by tea and then the presentation of prizes. There was an excellent turnout of members with everyone enjoying the day but we wish it would stop raining! Since then, members have turned their attention to indoor bowling at Aberdeen Indoor stadium and, of course, our winter social activities are in full swing. The regular meetings on Tuesday evenings are long started and we have had two Saturday events, a Quiz Night and a Whist evening with the events listed below still to come.

Christmas Party Burns Night John Dunn And All that Jazz

Open Doors You are welcome to come down to the Club at any time. In particular, every Tuesday morning we have a work group of members doing all those jobs that need to be done during the closed season. If you want to know more about the Club, that is a good time to come along and have a chat. Time it right and you will be treated to a rowie as well!

The Club’s web site is www.cultsbowlingclub.weebly.com There you will find details of our programme and general information about the Club. You may also contact Findlay Baxter (01224 868263 or findlaybaxter@yahoo.com)

Saturday 16 December Saturday 27 January Saturday 24 February Saturday 24 March

The Christmas Party is always a great success and, yes, we play games!

And, of course, our Burns Night has moved into legendary status with Margaret Ludgate once more writing and producing a play which reveals aspects of Rabbie’s life which even he might not have been completely aware of.

The Club is also open to other clubs or organisations in our area who are looking for a venue to hold an event or series of events. Last year MBC Hockey had a very successful evening for its presentation of trophies and as part of the MBC Festival Andy Hall, the well-known photographer, had a showing of his Aberdeenshire collection of photographs. If you are interested in holding such an event, please contact David Steele (01224 868485 or dusteele@talktalk.net)

WILSON FENCING FENCING • DECKING • PATIOS 07703 720 639

neilwilson1@live.co.uk

I am a One man company based in Dyce, providing all the services listed below.

Whether you need a fence repair or a new build garden planned & constructed.

Call or email me to discuss your next project.

Tree Work • Turfing • Exterior Painting

Operating in Aberdeen City, Suburbs and Shire

Check out my reviews at tradesadvisor wilsongardens

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 43

Cults LTC – part of the community for 130 years!

T

he regular tennis season has come to an end but that doesn’t stop our members from playing on our fantastic all-weather courts! The club is still busy with new events to keep everyone motivated and there is something for all sections of the membership between now and Christmas. The courts are still busy with matches, social events, coaching and informal play and the returning RGU students are making the most of our close link to play several times a week – there is something for everyone so if you want to come along and give it a go please check the website for our ‘open sessions’ where all potential members are welcome to join in.

Our comprehensive coaching programme continues throughout the year and there are lots of chances to get involved during term time. During the October holidays, camps ran both weeks. If you are interested in improving your game we have just the right class for you from matchplay sessions to cardio tennis and many of these sessions are open to non-members for a small fee so please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our coach, Gareth Rennie, email: g.rennie@cultstennisaberdeen.co.uk.

Coming up, we have our extremely popular Fireworks display on 5th November - this is open to all and seems to get bigger and better every year!

No tickets required but a donation made as you leave helps us to make sure the display is something special.

Friday, 10th November is our Junior Ski-night at the Snow Sports Centre in Garthdee. This is a great event and a chance for our junior members to get together before the busy festive season begins – sign up is required for this so look out for details which will be emailed to all members.

With six floodlit all-weather courts, we play come rain or come shine and there is a real feel of tennis being a year-round sport, so don’t feel like it’s too late to come and join us as there are membership options throughout the year. Contact our membership secretary, Daniel Packham at dan.cultssecretary@hotmail.co.uk.

Dates for the diary: Fireworks Display – Sunday 5th of November* Ski Night – Friday 10th November *A chance for all members of the local community to come down and join in the fun – details will be on our website and facebook in due course.

• • • • • •

Friendly local club Excellent facilities including 6 floodlit artificial grass courts Professional coaching team headed by Gareth Rennie Extensive coaching programme available throughout the year for all members (Junior and Senior) Weekly sessions for both social and competitive players Social events and club tournaments

Contact the Secretary Dan Packham at d.packham@cultstennisaberdeen.co.uk for membership details Contact the Coach Gareth Rennie at g.rennie@cultstennisaberdeen.co.uk or on 07714753607 for coaching details

www.cultstennisaberdeen.co.uk

Page 44

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

News from Culter Pipe Band

W

e were delighted to finish in 4th place in group 4B at the World Pipe Band Championships this summer in Glasgow. This was a fantastic achievement for the band and is something we will be looking to build on over the next few months and into next season.

As always, we are keen to support local community events and had a very enjoyable day playing at the Camphill open day in September. We will also be playing at the Remembrance Day Parade in Culter on 12th November and again, at the Culter Gala Burns supper in January 2018.

After the success of our summer season, we are looking to expand the band and would be delighted to welcome along any experienced pipers and drummers, we also have a thriving learner section so are able to accommodate all levels of ability in both piping and drumming. We meet on Mondays and Wednesdays at Culter Village Church so please contact Susan if you are interested in coming along.

Susan Falconer, Band manager

Tel: 07540 530705

Peterculter Medical Practice

O

ur ‘flu vaccine campaign at the practice started in early October, and we have been running our usual regular immunisation clinics targeting those in the publicised at-risk groups. The annual ‘flu vaccine protects people over 65, those who have certain health conditions, pregnant women and those who work in healthcare against the strains of ‘flu virus that are likely to be circulating each winter ‘flu season.

The ‘flu vaccine is offered to all children in Scotland aged two to five years (and not yet in school) at their GP practice; it is also offered to all primary school children at school. Please remember that fit and healthy younger adults are not regarded as being at particular risk of ‘flu complications so are not recommended for routine NHS vaccination. Some companies will, however, offer this to their employees and the ‘flu vaccine is available on a private basis via some pharmacies and other private medical organisations. Please don’t delay getting your ‘flu vaccine organised so that you are protected from influenza during the winter months – it’s not too late!

In staff news, we are delighted to welcome Mrs Fiona Birnie to the reception/secretarial team (she has many years’ experience working in primary care), and Mrs Gillian Craig to the nursing team (she has previously worked as a midwife and has, relatively recently, undertaken training to return to nursing).

Mrs Valerie Sillito, our longstanding pharmacist colleague, has been working with us in an enhanced role on four days per week since last August. This is a relatively new initiative which the practice has supported, in recognition of the important role that a practice-based pharmacist can play in the efficient and safe running of the medical service. She is on hand to deal with day to day prescribing and medication-supply dilemmas, to instigate medication changes following hospital admission or an outpatient attendance and she can conduct telephone or face to face consultations for medication reviews in certain situations such as asthma, COPD, hypertension and oral contraception. Her expertise is invaluable and we are confident this development will probably become more common across primary care generally.

Please think ahead to the Christmas and New Year period, we will be closed during the two public holidays each week only.

As ever it is important to make sure you have sufficient repeat medication supplies so do remember to order early.

Best wishes Dr D C M Harris

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 45

Abbreviations for the venues CASC -

Cults Academy Sports Centre

CAP -

Cults Academy Pool

CKC -

Cults Kirk Centre

CPCWC -

Cults Parish Church Worship Centre

CPS - DCFC -

Cults Primary School Deeside Christian Fellowship Church, Milltimber

HCC -

Hillview Community Church

ISP – International School, Pitfodels MCAH - Milltimber Community Association Hall MEHC – Murtle Estate Hall, Camphill MPS -

Milltimber Primary School

PCH -

Peterculter Church Hall

PCND -

Phoenix Centre, Newton Dee

PSC-

Peterculter Sports Centre

PVH –

Peterculter Village Hall

SCC -

Scout Centre, South Ave, Cults

SDCH -

St. Devenick’s Church Hall, Bieldside

SPHH -

St. Peter’s Heritage Hall, Peterculter

WRIH -

WRI Hall, Kirk Crescent, Cults

What’s On Locally What a lot of activities we had in our area this summer!

I hope you managed to get to some of the 20 events in the MBC Festival – I did! And I hear 3,500 people went to the Deeside Local Food Festival – that’s a lot of people!!

Congratulations and thanks to the organisers of both events.

We know it is a lot of hard work and your efforts are much appreciated.

If you spot anything wrong or out-of-date in this listing, please let me know. As I have said before, this information is only as good as the information I am given.

Best wishes, Eleanor Brennan, Tel 862262,

email: brennaneleanor@yahoo.co.uk

CONTRIBUTE to COMMUNITY LIFE through your HOBBY The Community Council is urgently looking for Volunteers to revive: - the management of the use of community facilities available for your current and future leisure and learning activities. and/or - the management and running of a community minibus to support community life.

This is a ‘use it or lose it’ opportunity to put something back into your community by simply enjoying your hobby or leisure time activity. Please do not let this pass by. Interested?

Contact Guus Glass on 01224 864925 or Eleanor Brennan on 01224 862262.

Karate-Do

Gladstone-Noble Tree Surgery Est. 2013

          

NPTC Certified Felling Dismantling Crown thinning, lifting, reduction & reshaping Hedge cutting Fire wood available unseasoned or seasoned Fencing Landscaping Garden maintenance Snow clearing and gritting Fully insured  Free quotations

Contact Coran Email: yogabycoran@gmail.com 01224 917288 Page 46

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Fitness, Sport and Dance Badminton - Junior, CASC Saturdays, 1.30 - 5.30pm Sept to April Email CultsJuniorBC@gmail.com Badminton - Adult, CASC Mondays & Tuesdays, 7.30 - 10.00pm Contact Rob Wheadon, Tel. 323711 BADMINTON - SOCIAL, MCAH Mondays, 1.30 - 3.00pm Wednesdays, 10.00am - 1200noon Contact Marion Anderson, Tel : 732505 CULTS CANOE CLUB Regular trips for all levels of ability Contact info@deesidepaddlers.com or Cults Canoe Club on Facebook CULTS BOWLING CLUB All ages very welcome. Summer Bowling, Winter Activities Contact David Steele, Tel : 868485 www.cultsbowlingclub.weebly.com CULTS CRICKET CLUB Contact Ian Sutherland, Tel : 742833 CULTS FIT FOLK, HCC For men and women over 55.

Wednesdays 10.00-11.00 am Contact Ellie Whyte, Tel : 861204 CULTS HILLWALKING CLUB, CPS Indoor session 1st Thursday of the month 7:30 – 9:00 p.m. Walks on Sundays, 10 days after the meeting.

Contact Paul Dumont, Tel. 863938 or John Knowles, Tel. 868051 BONACCORD MBC HOCKEY CLUB, CASC P4 – P7, Tuesdays, 6.00 – 7.00 p.m.

S1 – Senior, 6.30 – 8.00 p.m.

Email: info@bonaccordmbc.net Mob. 07434-192089 YOUTH HOCKEY COACHING Tuesdays, 5.45 – 7.00 p.m., end Aug to Easter - Robert Gordon’s College pitches, Countesswells Road. Run by Gordonians Hockey Club but boys and girls from P4 to S4 from all schools are welcome. Sticks can be provided. More details at www.gordonianshockey.com CULTS LAWN TENNIS CLUB 32 Abbotshall Place, Cults See separate item in MBC News for full details. Contact Dan Packham (Sec.) d.packham@ cultstennisaberdeen.co.uk or Gareth Rennie, (Head Coach), g.rennie@ cultstennisaberdeen.co.uk www.cultstennisaberdeen.co.uk CULTS OTTERS SWIMMING CLUB, CAP Development swimming classes and Junior Coaching sessions. Contact Jo Gibson, Tel. 868124 Email: cults.otters. lts@gmail.com www.cultsotters.org.uk CULTS SPORTS COMPLEX , CASC Open Mon- Fri, 17.00 -22.00 & 08.3017.00 on weekends.

Fitness Suite, Exercise Classes, Indoor Swimming Pool, 2 Sports Halls, Dance Studio and AstroTurf pitch Contact 01224 507 685 See separate article in the magazine for full details.

CYCLISTS’ TOURING CLUB GRAMPIAN Weekly rides led by trained leaders.

Cyclists at all levels of ability and newcomers welcome Contact Gerard Vlaar, Tel. 734799 www.ctcgrampian.org.uk/runs FLEX ‘n STRETCH TO THE BEAT Wednesdays 8.00 – 9.00 p.m.

Varied fitness levels.

Contact Anne Low, Tel. 868553 CULTER YOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB Boys’ & Girls’ Teams, aged 6 to 19 years.

Training most days.

Contact Jason White, Tel. 07541027846 or 869474 www.culteryouthfc.com Email: culteryouthfc@gmail.com FOOTBALL IN THE COMMUNITY, Wed, 4.00-5.00pm 5-8 year olds Contact Dons in the Community Tel : 650472 or 650432 Pre-School Football (KCC) Mon, 1.00-1.30 p.m., 1.30-2.00 p.m., 2.00-2.30 p.m. Fri, 9.30-10.00 a.m. 10.0010.30 a.m. 1.30-2.00 p.m.(Classes also available at Airyhall Community Centre) Contact Alison McLeod Tel: GRAMPIAN CARDIAC REHABILITATION ASSOCIATION Exercise classes at Kippie Lodge, Milltimber, RGU Sports Garthdee and other venues in Aberdeen Contact Douglas Pacitti, Tel: 01569 763372 e: d.pacitti@gcra.org.uk or speak to the Cardiac Nurse at Cults Surgery w: www.gcra.org.uk KARATE Various sessions around this area – see website for full list. Mondays 6.30 – 8.00 p.m., ISP Fridays 4.30 – 5.30 p.m., CPS Contact Ronnie Watt, Tel. 734607 www.karate-scotland.info FRISKIS & SVETTIS- SWEDISH STYLE KEEP FIT Monday 7.30pm, HCC, Basic (Rosey) Thursday 9.30am, HCC, Basic (Gavin) Saturday 11.00am, CASC Basic (Rota) For more info contact Rosey 310380 Just turn up - no need to sign up for a block - all welcome Pilates, Peterculter Sports Centre : Mon. afternoon, Tues afternoon evening,Thurs. evening Camphill School, Murtle Wed. evenings Cults Kirk Centre Fri. mornings All classes must be booked in advance. Contact Solveig Dahle Smith, Tel. 861421 solveig@pilatesaberdeen.com www.pilatesaberdeen.com PILATES (WRIH) Wednesdays 6.00 – 7.00 p.m.

Classes run by a trained physiotherapist Contact Laura McKay, Mob. 07734 312798, email laura@physiotherapilates. co.uk www.physiotherapilates.co.uk SOCCER FOR 5-10 YR OLDS, CPS Wednesday afternoons, term time only 3.30 – 4.30 Boys and Girls aged 5 – 7 4.30 -5.30 Boys and Girls aged 8 -10 Contact Ian Wilson, 07770-996767

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

SOCCER FOR OVER 30’s, CPS Thursdays, 7.30 – 9.00 p.m.

Contact Alistair Brown, Tel. 861314 Peterculter sports centre Coronation Road, Peterculter Tel : 732069 Fitness studio, aerobics classes, creche. Monthly membership or ad hoc prices SWIMMING - LIFESAVING CLUB (Adults 14+/Rookies/Junrs 10+) Mondays 6.30-9.30pm ontact Anne Gwynne - Tel : 868846 SWIMMING, CAP Adult Lane sessions Mon 8.30-10.00 p.m Wed. 7.45-8.30 am; Friday 7.45-8.30 am Public session, Friday 8.00-9.30 p.m.

Sat and Sun - Adult Lane swimming 8.30-10.00 am followed by public swimming 10.00-12.00. All welcome Continues during school holidays.

Contact Sports Aberdeen, Tel. 866282 TAI CHI, (ATCC’88), CPCWC Wednesdays, 7.00 - 9.30pm Contact Don Wells - Tel : 645521 SEAFIELD WALKING GROUP Fortnightly walks for the Over 50s Bus departs from Countesswells Programme includes moderate and easy walks. Contact Jenny, 01569731017 or 07773-072968 Woodburn WalkING GROUP Rambling for the over 50s Meet alternate Tuesdays at Hazlehead Bus Terminus Travel by hire bus Average walk +/- 7 miles Contact Joyce, Tel. 01224 323925 or Maureen, Tel. 01224 318075 ASHTANGA YOGA, CKC Energetic Ashtanga Vinyasa Flow Yoga Class Mondays, 6.30 p.m - 7.30 p.m.

Vinyasa Flow Yoga Class for Beginners (slower, more relaxed pace) Mondays, 7.30 p.m. - 8.30 p.m.

One to one yoga development sessions also available.

Contact Simone Barnett, 07985 384402 Drop in £7, discounts for block bookings.

AURINKO YOGA Sundays, 4.30-6.00pm Contact Aidan Mulkerrin, 07710-495552 HATHA YOGA, CKC Mixed class, beginners welcome.

Wednesdays, 7.00 -8.00 p.m.

Contact Deborah Thompson, Mob. 07821704826 YOGA, CKC Wednesdays, 7.00 - 8.30 p,m, Contact Fiona Britee, Tel. 487712

Dancing

ABERDEEN KILT KICKERS AMERICAN SQUARE DANCE CLUB (WRIH) Mondays 7.30 – 9.00 p.m Beginners 9.00 – 10.00 p.m.Mainstream Dancers Thursdays 7.30-10.00 p.m.

Mainstream and Plus Dancers Contact Tom White, Tel. 318963 www.aberdeenkiltkickers.org.uk

BALLROOM DANCING, CASC Monday 7.00 – 8.00 p.m. & 8.00 -9.00 p.m.

Beginners and more experienced dancers welcome Contact Barney Phillips, 07818-4286593 DANS SENIOR Fridays 11.00-12.00 during term time Disco, Jazz, Rock, Swing - there’s no age limit for dancing! Nothing complicated, just simple, inspiring moves. No need to book, just come along! £3.50 for non members, £3 for Friskis & Svettis members. Tel. Jackie, Mob 07427014700, Fiona, Mob 07885288121 or www. fsaberdeen.co.uk KAREN BERRY SCHOOL OF DANCE Classes for children and adults available in Cults and Peterculter For details see website www. danscentre.com or contact Karen Berry, Tel. 647341 TAYLOR SCHOOL OF DANCE, MCAH Recreational & Vocational classes available Classical Ballet, Modern Theatre, Tap, Jazz, Street Jazz, Boys Only Street Moves, Contemporary & Parent and Toddler Dance Contact Helen Colleran, Mob. 07531-811506 E-Mail - admin@taylordance.com w: www.taylordance.com GENTLE EXERCISE, INCL DANCE, CPCWC Thursdays, 2.30 – 3.30 p.m. Sept. to Dec., Jan. to Mar. Contact Fiona Murray, Tel. 702305 FOLK DANCES FROM AROUND THE WORLD (PCND) Adults. Wed. 7.00 -8.30 p.m. (school term times only) Contact Andrene Thompson, Tel. 781232 MAINLY MUSIC, HCC Music and movement for prepreschoolers and their caregivers, followed by coffee and chat for the adults while the children play.

Thursdays 9.45 a.m. Contact Iris Johns 07764 940176 or e-mail info@hillview.cc OLD TIME & SEQUENCE DANCE CLASS 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month 7.45 – 10.00 p.m. £5.00 per class Dunbar Street Community Hall, Old Aberdeen Contact Eileen or James, 01224-314953 Scottish Country Dancing, WRIH Tuesdays, 7.30 – 9.30 p.m. (mid Sept. to end March) Contact Sheila Fyfe, Tel. 868164 Wednesdays, 7.30 – 9.00 p.m.

Not suitable for complete beginners Contact Lynn Wood, Tel. 636128 SINCLAIR SCHOOL OF HIGHLAND DANCING Children and adult highland dancing classes available in Cults. For more information contact Carolanne Sinclair on 07972104774 or email sinclairhighlanddancing@gmail. com

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 47

Hobbies and Social CULTS O50 CLUB, CKC Wednesdays, Lunch from 11.45 Announcements/speaker 12.45 Other activities include bridge and scrabble, walks, theatre, cinema, local history outings, garden visits, art appreciation,a book group – the list is endless! Open to anyone over 50, not only Cults residents Details of activities on the website www.cultsparishchurch.co.uk/o50 Contact Liz Kilvington, Tel. 867103 or Margaret Wood, Tel. 310685, MILLTIMBER O50 CLUB, MCAH Meet monthly in the winter on Wednesdays at 2.00 p.m. for talks.

Other social events include walks, cycle rides, theatre visits, outings, garden visits, lunch outings and city breaks. Annual favourites are BBQ, Games night and a Christmas Party.

Open to anyone over 50. New members are welcome.

Contact John Park, Tel. 733057 or Robin Dyer, Tel 732445 ADULT ART CLASSES, HCC Wednesdays, 1.30 - 3.30 p.m.

Contact Jenny Hunter, Tel. 07751715343 Cults Art Club, CCC This is a self help group for Adults held in Cults Community Centre on Wednesday nights from 1930 to 2130 during school term. Contact Gordon Crooks tel. 07784838341

Page 48

FRIENDSHIP IN ART Fortnightly - Fridays 10-12noon Contact 01224 733979 ABERDEEN bridge CLUB 14 Rubislaw Terrace, Tel : 644773 Monday to Thursday - 7-10pm Adult Lessons Wed - 7pm Sept April PETERCULTER BRIDGE CLUB, PVH Fridays, 1.15 – 4.00 p.m., Sept.-April Contact Ellen Smith (Sec.), Tel. 867028 Email - ellen.aberdeen@btinternet.com CAFÉ ONE, DCFC Thurs 9:15am-12:00 (term time only) CALLIGRAPHY GROUP, Sessions arranged according to demand Contact Isobel Archibald, Tel. 867303 THE HUB CKC Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays, 10.00 a.m. – 3.00 pm To volunteer as a helper, contact the Hub Manager, Tracy Gordon, Mob. 07503867682 MILLTIMBER COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, MCAH Wide range of activities for all ages General enquiries Tasha, Tel. 739797 To hire the hall Margaret, Tel. 732477 www.milltimbercommunityhall.com Or facebook ‘Milltimber Community Hall’

Craft & Needlework Class, Wednesdays, 1.30 p.m. –4.00 p.m.

10 lessons, £70 Beginners and more experienced catered for Contact Yvonne Weir, Tel. 732098 Email:- weir323@btinternet.com ABERDEEN CHORUS - SWEET ADELINES INTL. Come and sing with us in harmony.

Open to girls/ladies over 14.

Mondays, 7:00 – 10.00 p.m.

Curl Aberdeen, Eday Walk, AB15 6LN www.aberdeenchorus.scot Albacappella, Kippie Ladies singing group Albacappella is moving to a new, temporary rehearsal venue from January – March 2017. Come along and sing every Wednesday from 7.30pm at Kippie Lodge. For more information, visit www.albacappella.co.uk.

DEESIDE CHORISTERS, MEHC Wednesdays, 6.15 – 8.00 p.m.

Prospective members most welcome Contact Nancy Paul, Tel. 741378 FOLK EVENING, CKC Monthly on the 2nd Friday, 7.30 p.m.

Both musicians and listeners most welcome. Bring your own beverage.

Contact Jan Johnson, Tel. 867951

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

Aberdeen Gaelic Club Brings together Gaelic speakers and individuals interested in Gaelic language and culture. The Club organises Gaelic language evening classes, day courses and other social activities including a monthly coffee afternoon and children’s club on the last Saturday of each month (except July and December) in the Boys Brigade Hall, Crimon Place, Aberdeen, 2.30 - 4pm, to which all are welcome.

Email clubgaidhlig@gmail.com for more information.

TALK GERMAN Courses for beginners and more advanced, depending on numbers and interest. Contact Erik Stien, 734149/077774-896421 ABERDEEN ITALIAN CIRCLE Talks (usually in English) on Italian subjects and social events Thursdays 7.15 p.m. (every 2/3 weeks Oct – May) Rubislaw Church Centre, Beaconsfield Place Contact: abital@btinternet.com or 635792 Italian Classes for Adults Email: encoit@talktalk.co.uk T el: 07786 827714

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

CULTS LIBRARY Open Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 10am-1pm, 2pm -5pm; Wed. 1.00 pm -7.00pm and Sat. 10am-1.00 pm. Books, CDs, DVDs, Blu-Ray, Audiobooks Free Wi-fi and PC access with print/scanning and photocopying facilities. Bookbug sessions every 4th Monday at 2.00 pm for preschool children.

CULTS LUNCH CLUB, CKC Mondays 12.00 – 2.00 p.m. (except July) New members most welcome.

Contact Jacky Hatchwell, Tel.861736 MISSIONARY CRAFT WORKSHOP, DCFC Fortnightly - Wednesday, 10.00 – 12.00 Contact 01224 733979 THE MIXING BOWL, SDCH Community-led food interest group designed to bring together anyone interested in good food.

Meets monthly. Contact Rachel Gambro, 07964 698789 or see www.mixingbowlaberdeen.co.uk PETROLEUM WOMEN’S CLUB International friendship club for women connected to the oil industry.

Meetings with speaker, 1st Thursday of the month. Coffee mornings, 3rd Thursday of the month. Other activities include ten pin bowling, walks, bridge, golf, dinner club, mah-jong and a book group.

Contact Jane Anderson, Tel. 732242 or Liz Gove, Tel. 876169 Email pwcmembership@yahoo.co.uk www.pwcos.com ABERDEEN PHILATELIC SOCIETY Meets fortnightly on Thursdays 7.30 - 9.30 p.m. Rubislaw Church Centre, Fountainhall Road Contact Chris Jefferies, Tel 705676 CULTER PIPE BAND Meet Mon & Wed 7.00 – 9.00 p.m.

Culter Parish Church, Peterculter All ages and experience levels welcome Contact: Susan Falconer, Mob. 07540-530705 Rotary Club of Aberdeen Deeside Wednesday ‘s 6.15 for 6.45 pm in the Cults Hotel. For further information contact the secretary Quentin Tweedie on 01224 868218 email qtweedie@btconnect.com Saltire Society Promotes all things Scottish. Meets monthly on Tuesdays, normally in Rubislaw Parish Church. Contact D J Robertson, Tel. 484061 SCRABBLE CLUB, MCAH Fridays, 2.00 – 4.00 p.m.

Players at any level are very welcome Contact Joan Thomas, Tel. 733218 Email – joanat218@yahoo.co.uk

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

LEARN SPANISH Private classes given to individuals and small groups by a native Spanish speaker.Contact Carmenza Inglis, Mob. 07557-194415 Email: hola_aberdeen@hotmail.com

SCOTTISH WOMEN’S RURAL INSTITUTE, WRIH 1st Thursday of every month, 7.309.30 p.m.

(Not July or August) Contact Lynn Pithie, Tel.867614

Cults Strathspey & Reel Society, CPCWC Meet every 2nd Wednesday, 7.00 -9.00 p.m. Accordionists and string players welcome.

Contact Myra Noble, Tel. 867433.

GRAMPIAN WOODTURNERS, SDCH Meet last Sunday in the month, 2.00 p.m. New members are most welcome. Meetings consist of member participation, demonstrations etc., Contact Bill Diack, Tel. 01467-622772

ABERDEEN TOASTMASTERS (PUBLIC SPEAKING CLUB) Meets at Northern Arts Club (NAC), 1st, 3rd, 5th Thursdays of every month - 7.00-9.00pm Visitors are welcome - no cover charge. www.aberdeentoastmasters.org.uk Matthew Mtumbuka - Tel : 861028 Email : matthews@mtumbuka.com UPHOLSTERY & CRAFT CLASSES, WRIH Tuesdays, 9.30-12.30 p.m. and 1.00 -4.00 p.m. New students welcome at any time. Refreshments provided Contact Susan Roe-Curran, Mob. 07773521389 ABERDEEN WINE & FOOD SOCIETY Meets monthly in restaurants in and around Aberdeen. www.aberdeenwine-food-society.co.uk/ For more information contact Natasha Gordon, 07970 746778 or Bob Chisholm, 319372

Has your local group done anything spectacular this season?

An unusual way of fundraising?

A good turn for the neighbourhood? Just had a really good couple of months?

Let us know at MBC News as we would love to publish it for you.

Even better if you have some photographs to highlight it.

Upload direct on our website www.cbmcommunity.org.uk/ mbc-news or Send to the Editor mbcnews@ cbmcommunity.org.uk for details Get thinking... Get writing...

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 49

Children & Youth Groups AIR TRAINING CORPS 107( Aberdeen ) Squadron, Prince Charles Cadet Centre, Albury Road , Ferryhill, AB11 6TL Parade Mon & Wed 19.00-21.30hrs. Open to Boys and Girls aged 13-17 w: www.107aircadets.org e:107@aircadets.org Tel. 590679 CASPER AFTER SCHOOL CLUB, CPS Contact Marion Skea Tel : 07762-250550 Milltimber BREAKFAST AND After School Club, MPS Mon.–Fri., 7.30 to 9.00 a.m. and 2.45 to 6.00 p.m.

Contact Diane Forbes, Mob. 07525 855348 Cults Toddler Group. (CPCWC) Thursdays 9.30 – 11.30 a.m. during term-time Contact Laura Bain, Mob. 07568-154998 or email Laurabain1979@gmail.com BILINGUAL PARENT AND CHILD GROUP Wed. and Frid.9.15am to 11.10am.

Gilcomstoun Primary School Babies and toddlers introduced to Gaelic through arts, crafts, play and song. You don’t have to speak Gaelic to attend. Tel 0777 939 8289, croileagan@gmail.com.

Facebook: Croileagan Obar Dheathain.

Milltimber Playgroup MCAH Playgroup - Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 09.15am – 1145am (Term time) Forest School sessions Wed 09.15am – 11.45am & Fri 12.20pm – 14.40pm Daily lunch club 11.45 pm – 12.15pm Wrap around transport to/from Milltimber Nursery also available.

Contact Julie McWilliam 07740 575273 or Email milltimberplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk CULTS PLAYGROUP, CWCWC Mon - Fri 9.00am - 12.10 pm during term time in the North Hall, Quarry Road Contact Pam Crowe, Mob. 07842 470828 or email cultsplaygroup@gmail.com St Devenick’s Playgroup and Rising 5s, SDCH Playgroup: Monday – Friday, 9.10am – 12.20 p.m.

Lunch club, Wednesdays 11.50am – 1.00 p.m.

Rising 5s, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12.30 – 3.00 p.m.

Tots and Toddlers, Wednesday, 9.30 – 11.30 a.m.

All of the above are during term times.

Contact Emma, St.Devenick’s Playgroup Administrator 07525 825043 or Tel. 867431 Email - stdevenicksplaygroup@gmail.com SOUTH DEESIDE UNDER FIVES Fun and friendly childcare for children from birth to five years Maryculter Community Hall (next to the Old Mill

Inn), South Deeside Road Baby & Toddler Group – Mondays 9.30am to 11.30am Twos Group – Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 9.30am to 11.30am , Rising Fives – Tuesday lunchtimes 12 noon to 2pm Mob.: 07966 163953 E: info@south-deeside-under-fives.co.uk W: www.south-deeside-under-fives.co.uk THE ARK - PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP, DCFC Tuesdays, 9.45-11.30 a.m.

Contact Tel. 739180

Rainbows are for girls aged 5 - 7yrs Brownies are for girls aged 7 - 10yrs Guides are for girls aged 10 yrs plus The web address is www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested or you can call 0800 1 69 59 01 These are also the means by which any Adult can register an interest in helping with any of the groups, as we are always keen to welcome new Volunteers.

(Text from Joyce Cowie, Division Commissioner.)

Beavers, Cubs and Scouts

MAINLY MUSIC, DCFC Thursdays, 10-11am, parent & pre-school Tel 739180

21ST ABERDEEN (CULTS) SCOUT GROUP, SCC www.21staberdeenscouts.org.uk

YOUTH FELLOWSHIP, DCFC Sundays, 7-9pm, S1-S6 Tel 739180 WHO LET THE DADS OUT, DCFC Last Saturday of every month(term-time), 9.30-11:00am, dads and kids Tel 739180 or enquires@dcfchurch.org FUSION FRIDAYS, DCFC Every Friday (term-time), 5:30-6:00pm P1-P7, 6:00-9:00pm S1-S6 Tel 739180 or enquiries@dcfchurch.org

Beavers Wednesdays, 4.30 - 5.30 p.m.

Open to boys and girls aged 6 to 8 Contact Debbie Bone, 07708-018332 Email: ganddbone@btinternet.com.

Cubs Thursdays, 7.00 - 8.30 p.m.

Open to boys and girls aged 8 to 10 Email: cultscubs@gmail.com Scouts Fridays, 7.30 - 9.30 p.m.

Email: scoutleader@21staberdeenscouts.org.uk

FRIDAY CAFE FOR S1-S3, CKC Meet Fridays, 3.30 - 6 pm during term time.

Contact Peter Cross 07734 207203 or email pmarlowecross@me.com

65th Aberdeen (Milltimber) Scout Group, MCAH Beavers - Mondays 4.15 - 5.15pm Contact Fiona Douglas, Tel: 735523

ASCEND, HCC Youth Group for S1-6 Grades 7-12, Sundays 6.00-8.00pm Tel. 868096 or Email- info@hillview.cc

Cubs - Tuesdays 6.30 - 8.00pm Contact Marion Anderson, Tel. 732505 Scouts - Fridays 7.30 - 9.30pm Contact Iain Anderson - Tel. 07514 547071

GUIDES, BROWNIES and RAINBOWS We are very lucky to have active Rainbow, Brownie and Guide Units in the Milltimber and Cults area. This is due to the hard work and dedication of all the Leaders. Previously as an Organisation we could give you a list of all the Units in the area, the name and contact details of the Leaders and as an interested parent you could contact the Leaders directly, but now due to our Nationwide “Safe from Harm” Policy we can no longer publish this information. We now have a Website that you can visit and register an interest for the age group you want a place in for your daughter.

It is a simple procedure and once you have registered, a Guider should be in touch within 3 weeks to say if there are places available or if your daughter will be placed on the waiting list. You will be asked to put in your Postcode, the type of Unit you are interested in and if there are more than 1 suitable Unit you will be asked to put your 1st, 2nd and 3rd choice.

Youth Hockey Coaching on Tuesday evenings for P4 to S4 by Gordonians Hockey Club at Robert Gordon’s College astroturf pitches on Countesswells Road from 5.15pm to 6.30pm. Children from all schools are welcome and sticks can be provided.

VENUES FOR HIRE

Cults Kirk Centre/ Cults Parish Church Worship Centre Rooms/Halls available for various activities Contact 869028 Milltimber Community Association Hall For Group Lets Mon-Friday, contact Tasha, Tel. 739797 For Private Hires, Sat-Sun, contact Margaret, Tel. 732477 St. Devenicks Church Hall Contact Tel 863574 or email: office@stdevenicks.org Office Hours, 8.30am – 2.30pm Mon and Wed. WRI Hall, Cults Bookings for weekly activities only, not one-off private lets Contact Sheila Fyfe, Tel. 868164

Creating a safer, happier and healthier home with the combined natural ENJO fibre technology and cold water.

Go chemical free by contacting Anna Bonner m: 07789 207 469 www.facebook.co.uk/enjoukannabonner Page 50

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Local Rock Choir sells out Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut August has been a very special month for members of West Aberdeen Rock Choir, as they wowed audiences in their sold-out debut show at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Seventy amateur singers from Central Aberdeen, Inverurie, Stonehaven and West Aberdeen, teamed up with hundreds of other Rock Choir singers to perform for three nights at the world-famous event. The Edinburgh festival celebrated its 70th anniversary this year and Rock Choir entertained Fringe audiences with a selection of fun, uplifting pop, rock and chart songs that had them up on their feet every night.

Four lucky members from the North East, along with 96 other Rock Choir members from Scotland, were invited to perform Live on the BBC Radio 2 Michael Ball Show in the BBC Festival venue and sang Danny Wilson classic, Mary’s Prayer. Rock Choir leader Nicola Cain said, “Performing as part of the Edinburgh Fringe was the highlight of the year for me and the members taking part! It was such a thrill to know we were performing as part of a sold out run at the Fringe – a rarity for brand new Fringe Shows. We are all living in hope we will be able to go back again next year!”

The choir’s popularity is growing and event requests have been flooding in. Recently, it performed in the parade and on the main stage in Union Terrace Gardens as part of the Celebrate Aberdeen Weekend. During September, the choir also sang to an audience as part of the MBC Festival and the Deeside Food Festival.

The new autumn term began on 18th September when members began rehearsing for various Christmas light switch-on events across Aberdeenshire and will end a fantastic 2017 at the Hazlehead Winter Wonderland on 17th December.

Rock Choir is the UK’s largest contemporary choir with over 25,000 members taking part in over 360 local communities. It offers adults and teenagers an alternative experience to the traditional classical or community choir, pioneering a new approach to vocal training and entertainment plus the chance to sing and perform popular contemporary songs, without auditions. Rock Choir is much more than a choir – it’s a multi layered singing experience. The power of music, meeting new friends and performing at life changing events, together contribute to an emotional and powerful journey for our members.

The choir’s popularity is phenomenal and its achievements are extraordinary. It has released two top twenty albums and performed en masse at the 02 Arena, London, The Liverpool Echo Arena, Wembley Arena, Hammersmith Apollo, Birmingham NEC and the Royal Albert Hall. In 2011, Rock Choir was the subject of the popular 3-part ITV1 documentary ‘The Choir That Rocks’, and has made numerous other TV appearances.

Rock Choir offers its members, once in a lifetime experiences, from recording sessions at the iconic Abbey Road Studios, to touring with well-known celebrities such as X Factor winner, Sam Bailey, English tenor, Russell Watson and one-off celebrity performances with the likes of singer-songwriters, Chesney Hawkes, Toyah Willcox, Kim Wilde and Kiki Dee. New members are always very welcome and anyone interested in joining Rock Choir can try a FREE 90-minute taster session. There are no auditions and no need to read music. Please visit www.rockchoir.com

ANDY LOVELL

DÉCOR LTD PAINTER & DECORATOR

City & Guilds Advanced Crafts

Services tailored to suit your home 7 Kirkton of Durris Banchory AB31 6BQ

mbc NEWS Issue 177 Nov-Dec ‘17 Jan ‘18

For a free consultation call 07939 150 858

http://cbmcommunity.org.uk/mbc-news/

Page 51