Web issue 24 deeside gazette

Issue 24

Dec ‘13 - Jan ‘14 Deeside Edition Free Publication

Oh yes you can!

WIN two tickets for Aladdin

gazette at the Art Centre, Aberdeen!

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Successfully introducing local people to local businesses

A note from Sue… How pretty does Banchory look at the moment? The shops have excelled themselves for yet another year. Not forgetting the team behind the Christmas Lights fantastic.

West End - Deeside - Kingswells

Deeside gazette Exclusive to Banchory & Drumoak

Deadline : 20 Jan - (Feb-Mar Issue) 20 Mar - (Apr-May Issue)

Woodend Barn, I noticed, has been putting up photographs on facebook of the beautiful skies from their car park - I‘ve indulged in taking a few morning shots when out with the dogs.

Contact : Sue Simpson Tel : 01224 949085 Mob: 07813 964 875 email : gazette@fsmail.net W : thegranitecitygazette.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/gazettemagazines

Ad-hoc contributions from : Jane Robinson - Sarah Davey - Debbie SinghBhatti - Carol Brown - Lee Bestall Advertising Sales : Sue Simpson : Mobile :

01224 949085 07813 964 875

Distribution - thanks to : Stuart - Ross - Natalia - Sue - Dillon - Owen Keir - Jamie - Robert Distributor wanted for no vacancies at present

This is our last issue of 2013. It has been a very eventful year but I’m more than ready to embrace 2014. To end the year we have a Christmas special with a few recipes, helpful tips, some gift ideas from a few of the local shops, plus a chance to win two tickets for the pantomime at the Art Centre in Aberdeen!

Do pop down and buy some Christmas Cheer locally - supporting local business is a powerful thing.

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and an enterprising 2014.

Our next magazine will be the February-March issue and the deadline is 20 January.

Catch you all in February …

Sue

Disclaimer : Whilst we’d be flattered if you would like to borrow something from the gazette be polite and ask first!

Thank you. We try our hardest to ensure accuracy of editorial content but no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. The views expressed within the gazette are not necessarily those of the publisher or advertisers. When replying to offers, competitions and other correspondence, we would strongly recommend that you check published information with each organisation beforehand. We thank you for taking the time to read the small print. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication.

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Go mobile

for your health and beauty treatments Natalia Rubene-Mathers founded Go Health & Beauty in 2010. Inspiration for the business was born out when one of her client’s suggested her to a holiday company to be a mobile spa for their customers.

There was a big demand for her services and she was regularly being approached by new clients seeking out home treatments.

It seemed a very natural step to then create Go Health and Beauty.

One of her very first customer’s who inspired Natalia to do home visits was Mrs Bull who is 93 years young!

Mrs Bull is a very loyal customer, who shows beauty is timeless.

Living most of her life in and near London she made regular trips to Elizabeth Arden for some pampering.Dachsuhunds are her passion these days along with getting her nails done every few weeks. You have to admit they do look beautiful and youthful.

Natalia and her team believe that the therapies and beauty treatments should be part of your wellness regime and not just a luxury. They pride themselves on delivering a standard of service over and above that from a salon environment.

The therapists and/or hairdresser come to your home or work to spoil you with treatments. If you are not a bright colour lover why not try a nude colour for your nails thus creating a clean, classic, timeless and sophisticated look.

Customers feedback that a manicure followed by a paraffin mask improves their skin and takes arthritis pain away if done on a regular basis.

Go Health and Beauty specialise in private spa parties. Offering many different ideas to accommodate any occasion that guarantees a good time. Go Health and Beauty will come and visit at your home, holiday home, hotel or office.

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Contact us today to book your treatments. e: gohealthandbeauty@hotmail.co.uk e: gohealthandbeauty@hotmail.co.uk w: www.gohealthandbeauty.co.uk m: 07796 170 022 w: www.gohealthandbeauty.co.uk m: 07796 170 022 facebook: GoHealthBeauty facebook: GoHealthBeauty please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

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ACT ABERDEEN :

Brings Aladdin To All Arts Centre & Theatre Aberdeen (ACT Aberdeen) is catering for everyone this year with a special requirements night and a ‘works night out’ evening to add to their run of family oriented interactive shows.

This year’s production introduces a host of colourful characters to populate the stage at the King Street venue, putting an Aberdonian twist on the classic tale of Aladdin. Bubbly Beldie, our pantomime dame will be generating loads of laughs, not forgetting Mimi the Monkey, a cheeky fellow sure to delight and entertain everyone of all ages.

Our Special Requirements evening, to be held on Friday 13th December at 7pm is mainly for families with additional needs, but is open to everyone. This is a first for ACT and will cater for families who may otherwise feel panto is inaccessible to them.

Paula Gibson, executive manager tells us, ‘We produce a truly family panto, with lots of interaction and the focus on the kids. However, it’s nice to be able to provide families with special requirements a show of their own, especially in light of recent news stories where some theatres have behaved in an inexcusable and inappropriate way towards these families. We want to feel that we can provide for everyone, in tandem with our ethos that everyone is entitled to an enriching cultural life regardless of age or social circumstance.’

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Director, Wilma Gillanders is at the helm once more and is set to top last year’s amazing production and script. The ACT Aberdeen panto has become a firm family favourite, as many had to be turned away from sold out shows in December 2012.

The ‘works night out’ evening will be held on Thursday 19th December at 8pm, a later showing to allow groups partaking in pre-Christmas festivities to go out for a meal, or come to us and have a drink before the show. This showing is for over 16s only and is a one off, so will feature material exclusive to this performance.

Paula told us ‘This year, we also wanted to provide a ‘one night only’ opportunity for grown-ups to enjoy the show and leave the kids at home and come and have a good laugh. Our ‘works night out’ evening is set to be an entertaining and fun alternative to other

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

Win Tickets Christmas Nights Out. Groups of 10 or more who pre-book will receive a free glass of wine on arrival and the show time has been moved to 8pm to allow for meals out beforehand. This is the first year we have tried this and hope that it becomes a popular alternative to a typical Christmas night out.’

Paula added ‘We have had an action packed year, with our 50th birthday celebrations, but there is no rest for us, as we are already planning for next year.

Plans for next year’s panto are already underway and we have a very special offer for schools who book before April 2014. Our early bird offer runs from December to April 2014 and will allow schools to book at this year’s prices.’

In the meantime, keep your eyes peeled for a host of our panto characters, who will be appearing in various locations in and around Aberdeen.

For your chance to win a pair of tickets to Aladdin, answer the following question correctly…..

Q: What is the name of the baddie in Aladdin?

Send your answers to media@actaberdeen.org.uk with your answer, name and contact details and put ‘Aladdin Competition’ in the subject line. Good luck!

Entry required by midday on 15 December

Castlegate Arts presents

What the audience said about last year’s

Little Red Riding Hood:

‘Fabulous! Flabbergasting!’ ‘Wonderful! 10 out of 10!’

‘Amazing – best panto ever’ ‘Brilliant’ ‘Perfect for children’

50th Anniversary

matinee and evening shows Thursday 5 to Tuesday 24 December Morning, Tickets available from Aberdeen Box Office 01224 641122 boxofficeaberdeen.com | aberdeenpanto.com

please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

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Spot the Difference

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Spot : Solution 1. The star on the Christmas tree 2. Antler missing 3. Cabinet drawer 4. Clouds on book cover 5. Tie colour 6. Rug pattern changes 7. Glasses 8. Chair leg disappears 9. Red bauble 10. Arm missing

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www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

Winter Tyres I drive a lot and dread icy winter roads, but somehow the thought of parting with hardearned cash for something as dull as tyres was a bit of a turn-off Then last November I had to hire a car in Switzerland, and I was amazed at the handling of the little vehicle and the confidence I felt behind the wheel, in what can only be described as less-than-ideal weather conditions - for that read snow, snow and more snow. I mentioned it to the Swiss friend I was visiting. She looked astonished, ‘It’s the winter tyres,’ she said matter-of-factly. ‘We always wonder why British people don’t use them.’

I was sold. On my return I called in at my local tyre salesman and asked for his advice.

He suggested buying a set of cheap steel rims for my car and putting the winter tyres on those, storing the originals in my garage.

The tyres improve handling on greasy roads,

but will really come into their own in snowy and icy conditions, or wet conditions where the temperature is below 7 degrees.

Braking and traction are improved immeasurably on winter tyres.

If your car is rear wheel drive I’d say winter tyres are essential. If your car is front-wheel drive I’d still say they’re essential. Although the improvement in performance isn’t as great, it is still very noticeable.

My friendly tyre-fitter suggests changing them over in November and running with them until February/March depending on the weather.

This year try some winter tyres. You will never regret it. They may even save your life!

By Sarah Davey

www.outthere-activewear.com t: 01330 823902 e: nicky@outthere-activewear.com

Winter stock just arrived Open 7 days a week.

Mon-Sat-9.30-5.30 Sun-11-4 Offering range of high quality outdoor goods + accessories for men,women and children!

15 High Street, Banchory, Aberdeenshire AB31 5SR please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

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LOCAL Christmas Gift Guide For Him...

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Stockists for His Christmas Guide 1. victorinox, Huntsman £34.99 buy at Outthere

Activewear, Banchory 2.

Hand Decorated Picture Frame using upcycled comic

books www.handmadeaberdeenshire.co.uk 3.

Primus Flasks from £16.99-£25.99 buy at Outthere

Activewear, Banchory 4 Meindl Toronto Gtx (£149.99) buy at

Outthere Activewear 5 Mountain Hardware, Monkey man grid jacket £129.99

buy at Outthere Activewear, Banchory 6 jetboil cooking stove £104.99 buy at Outthere

Activewear, Banchory 7 Ortlieb waterproof rucksack £104.99 at Outthere

Activewear, Banchory 8 Primus lunch jug £17.99 at Outthere Activewear, Banchory 9 Haglofs Rand 50L Rucksack £159.99 at Outthere

Activewear, Banchory

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LOCAL Christmas Gift Guide For HER...

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10 Stockists for Her Christmas Guide

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1 Ladies, Keen, Bryce waterproof walking shoe (£109.99) buy at Outthere Activewear, Banchory 2 Pearls & Flowers Phone Covers £9.50 www.facebook.com/joansgems1 3 OPI Nail Polish sets - Kumiko from £18 4 Green tea Amy Strachan = These are silk scarfs designed and hand finished in Scotland

by Amy Strachan, costs £60. (Junction Arts) 5 Haglofs, Swook hooded Fleece (Ladies) £99.99 buy at Outthere Activewear, Banchroy 6 Angel Necklace created using a crystal encrusted clay bead www.handmadeaberdeenshire.co.uk 7 Jewellery by Folly & Desire, this is the Bee Necklace and Bee earrings with black beads.

Both cost £14.00 so £28 for the set. (Junction Arts) 8 New Baby, Birthday (Kids, Male & Female), Anniversary, thank you, Christmas Cards -

£2 per card or 3 for £5 9 Dermalogica gift sets - Kumiko fm £20-£80 10 Candy Coated Purses 2 = Purses and phone covers by Candy Coated, Phone covers

£9.00, Small purses £11.00, large purses, £14.50. All made in Scotland. (Junction Arts) 11 Odlo ladies baselayer £44.99 Outthere Activewear, Banchory 12 Mountain Hardware Monkey Glove £24.99 Ouththere Activewear, Banchory 13 Wool Collars, Cari&Co at Bieldside

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LOCAL Christmas Gift Guide For KIDS...

Stockists for Kids Christmas Guide 1 Blinged Trainers Kids £25 Adult £28 www.facebook.com/joansgems1 2 Blinged Hair Bow Clips £5 www.

facebook.com/joansgems1 3 Kozi Kids Oxford jacket £44.99 buy

at Outthere Activewear 4 dolls, beds and handmade book is

£40 email mel.lamont@yahoo.co.uk 5 Mini Blinged Converse & Uggs £5 www.facebook.com/joansgems1 6 Childs Penny Purse - £8.00 available

from: Mountain Daisy / 100%

Handmade Aberdeenshire

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LOCAL Christmas Gift Guide For family...

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Stockists for Family Christmas Guide 1 Personalised Wine & champagne glasses £12 www.facebook.com/joansgems1 2 Tooth Fairy Doors £3 each, name plaques £5 each,

Mr & Mrs Home plaque £10 and Christmas plaque

£5 Call: 01569 731730 or facebook/craftydafty 3 Handmade cushions by The Bell and the Bee for

sale at Dee’s Tea’s, North Deeside Road, Kincardine

O’neil. Prices range from £25 to £28 4 Babs Pease 4 = Framed hand pulled Linocut print

by Babs Pease, title 'Bright Blue Snow'. Costs

£230.00 (Junction Arts) 5 Red & Cream tartan cushion at Cari&Co, Bieldside

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www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

A Taste of Victorian Splendour is coming to Bieldside Cari & Co. is an award winning company, founded

by Carolyn Murdoch and now in her 20th year in business.

Cari & Co. innovative Fashion Accessories include Scarves, Collars, Wraps ... have been developed with you in mind. All items are ‘Made in Scotland’ with care and attention to detail, using only the finest quality materials. The company aims to support the local economy and promote Scottish products throughout the world.

Already selling Scottish goods to Japan Cari & Co have reciprocated by purchasing luxurious Cotton/ Lawn/Jacquards and Linens. Not only to make their own designs of Home and Kitchen Accessories but to supply to dressmakers and crafters beautiful unusual fabrics, through their website and brand new Shop and Café opening in December.

The Café, situated at 55 North Deeside Road, Bieldside, Aberdeen, focuses on quality with a capital ‘Q’. Whether it be the Illy Coffee, the Jeniere tea leaves, the homemade cakes and biscuits or Scottish and Japanese fabrics, as well as Gifts sourced from London, Paris and Rome - a visit to this café will be an experience!

Decorated in a Victorian Style – inspired by a project Carolyn completed just this year when graduating with a BA(Hons) from Grays School of Art – the wallpapers are of her own design. Visiting auctions and charity shops have furnished the café with original paintings, furniture, crockery and cutlery.

Workshops will be available for those wishing to improve their craft and dressmaking skills from January onwards A warm Victorian welcome awaits you.

What would you do to give someone the gift of health and independence?

The small band with the big sound. Sounds from the 50’s to present including Country and traditional Scottish music using midi accordion as well as Tyros hi-tech keyboards.

Unique seated exercise DVD for mature adults Transforming your mobility, fitness, health and wellbeing this winter with Laura Walker

contact phone: 07731 461 222 email: arlenedougsound1@btinternet.com website: www.arlenedougsound.com (best accessed via google)

Free band ance rder! t is s re very o e h it w

Call 07773021851

www.laurawalkerlimited.co.uk

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BLINDS DIRECT

15% OFF all orders FREE Quotation and Fitting Specialists in

. Verticals . Rollers . Romans . Pleated New Intu Blinds . Velux 01224 745759 . 07941 704 506

Conservatory Blinds Wood Venetians

Blinds Direct will guarantee to beat any like for like quote!

Contact: Nicol Meldrum 30 Coull Green, Kingswells, Aberdeen AB15 8TR blindsdirectaberdeen@googlemail.com www.blindsdirectaberdeen.com

Our much loved community choir, BANCHORY SINGERS, are hard at work preparing to entertain you at their 2 Christmas concerts.

Not only will the whole choir be getting you in the festive mood with a variety of seasonal songs, but there will also be an interesting selection of items from smaller groups from within the choir!

The concerts will take place in Banchory Town Hall on Saturday, December 14th at 7.30pm and on Sunday 15th December at 2.30pm.

Everyone is invited to enjoy the singing and a mince pie and glass of wine afterwards!

Tickets, priced £8 for adults, £5 concessions and £17 for families may be bought from Banchory library or any choir member.

Spinning Indoor Cycling

n ive . s g tte e ss ze cla e ga f the e re ide th ne o ?

F 0 ns u o es 10way i re yo ky on c e a W lu

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The Ultimate Christmas Survival Guide Christmas can be a time of stress and worry. What could you do to make things more enjoyable?

Ask yourself - What is most important to me about Christmas? Then, keep focussed on that and let go of the rest. Don’t overburden yourself by believing everything has to be just like the ‘ideal version of a perfect family Christmas.’ Your Christmas is just that, the one that fits you and your circumstances. It can be however you want it to be.

for example. Perhaps you know that your friend works right next to that shop on the other side of town that you can just never find time to get to ask them to pop in and get what you need, you’d do the same for them wouldn’t you?

If things don’t go quite to plan- ask yourself will this matter in 5 years time? Chances are it won’t be significant at all. Many things that seem disastrous at the time are laughed at later.

However Christmas turns out, and however much you have or don’t have, choose to be grateful. No matter how difficult things are - notice what you have rather than what you don’t have, and you will find plenty of Christmas joy.

By Susan Brookes-Morris

For most people being with friends and family is important at Christmas, but it’s not necessary to force everyone to be together just because it’s Christmas. If people haven’t got on for years, it’s very unlikely that some turkey and a spot of tinsel will heal the rift. Why risk a big row and be anxious all day? Choose to see small groups of people separately instead.

Whatever type of Christmas you want, you probably wouldn’t choose to burn the dinner or to forget anything. Try to avoid this by planning, and accepting help.

Find out about the closing times of shops you know you will need to visit, and about delivery times if ordering online. If posting cards and presents, ask about the latest posting dates. It’s also useful to keep details handy for pharmacies that will be open, and have medical numbers such as NHS Direct close by, and the vet too if you have pets. If travelling by car, find out which petrol stations will be open and check tyres, oil and water before you go. Revised bus and train timetables are usually published well in advance, so hunt these out too.

You are not alone. Sharing with friends, family and neighbours is part of the Christmas spirit. Let go of needing to do everything yourself. Some families split the meal duties: One part of the family brings a starter, the host household do the main and other guests bring along a pudding please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

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www.templemedical.co.uk tel: 01224 869997 6 West Craibstone Street, Aberdeen, AB11 6DL 14

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

Stuff the Turkey!

For some folk Christmas without turkey is a bit like stew without dumplings, or gin without tonic, but if yours is always disappointingly dry and overcooked, why not look at an alternative this Christmas?

Goose is tender, full of flavour, relatively cheap, and a 4kg bird should easily feed six people. It has a reputation for being fatty but don’t be put off. Simply prick the skin well and pour off the surplus fat about an hour into cooking, and hey presto - problem solved!

Ducks are smaller, which means they cook faster than a huge turkey or goose. Moist and strongly flavoured, one large duck feeds four so they are perfect for smaller gatherings, but don’t plan on serving one up if you’re hosting a Christmas for twelve!

Beef is quick and easy to cook, and as you can buy whatever amount you need, it is suitable for gatherings both large and small. Allow 500g of rib of beef per person (including the bone) and glaze the top to keep it moist.

Why not give venison a try? It’s a lean meat, and consumption is currently on the increase as we become more health-conscious.

It can be purchased at good butchers. A more exotic option is ostrich, which tastes like good quality beef fillet and requires very little cooking.

Other possibilities are ham, lamb, partridge and pheasant. So go on, stuff the turkey this Christmas and try something different for your festive feast!

By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

Christmas Bonanza Every Thursday from 03 October 19 December

Buy something bespoke and unique for Christmas this year

www.facebook.com/deesteas.cafe

Dee’s Teas Gift Vouchers

Dee’s Tea’s - 38a North Deeside Road, Kincardine O’Neil

Tel : 01339 884 202

www.deesteas.co.uk

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Method Mix together all the dry ingredients.

Stir in the eggs and brandy and mix together thoroughly.

Scrape the mixture into 4 x 1 pint (450ml) or 2 x 2 pint (1 litre) lightlygreased pudding basins.

The Perfect Christmas Pud Makes 4 x 1 pint (450ml) or 2 x 2 pint (1 litre) Preparation time 30 minutes plus 5-6 hours steaming time, plus 2 hours re-steaming on the day of eating.

Make a string handle by tying both round and over the basin, to make it easier to pick out of the pan after cooking.

Put the basins in a large steamer of boiling water and cover with a lid.

Ingredients 225g/8oz golden caster sugar 225g/8oz vegetarian suet 340g/12oz sultanas 340g/12oz raisins 225g/8oz currants 120g/4oz chopped candied peel 120g/4oz plain flour 120g/4oz fresh white breadcrumbs 60g/2oz flaked almonds Zest of 1 lemon 5 eggs, beaten 1level tsp ground cinnamon 1level tsp mixed spice 1 level tsp freshly grated nutmeg Pinch of salt 150ml/5fl oz brandy or rum

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Put a circle of baking parchment and foil over the top of each basin and tie securely round the rim with string.

Boil for 5-6 hours, topping the boiling water up from time to time if necessary so that it doesn’t boil dry. If you don’t have a steamer, you can use a large pan and stand the basins on inverted saucers placed in the base. Pour in boiling water to come a third of the way up the sides of the pudding bowls. Cover and steam as before. Cool.

Change the baking parchment and foil covers for fresh ones and tie up as before.

Store in a cool cupboard until Christmas Day. To serve the pudding on Christmas Day, steam for 2 hours and serve with brandy butter, rum sauce, cream or home-made custard.

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Christmas by the Glass Christmas Day in our house starts with a leisurely family brunch, complete with a cheeky little cocktail.

Cocktails at breakfast might not suit everyone, and I certainly wouldn’t recommend them as part of your usual healthy diet, but at Christmas I feel I can indulge without guilt.

I would suggest a Bloody Mary as a good accompaniment to a late breakfast.

Bloody Mary Ingredients Ice cubes Vodka, double shot ½ lemon, juice only 6 dashes Worcestershire sauce 3 dashes Tabasco sauce 150ml/5fl oz tomato juice Pinch salt and freshly ground black pepper Method Place the ice into a tall glass and add the vodka.

Add the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce and tomato juice. Stir well.

Adjust the seasoning to taste with salt and pepper and serve straightaway. *** Before lunch, it’s nice to serve champagne with a festive twist.

Champagne with Cranberries Ingredients Champagne (or any good quality sparkling wine) Dried cranberries Method Simply pop 5 dried cranberries into each glass and pour the champagne over. The cranberries ‘dance’ in the bubbles and look very Christmassy. *** And finally, no Christmas Day is complete without a tumbler or two of mulled wine.

Mulled Wine Ingredients 400ml / 14fl oz red wine (Shiraz is fantastic) 400ml / 14 fl oz water 400ml / 14 fl oz good quality orange juice 80ml / 2½ fl oz brandy 4tbsp dark brown sugar ½ tsp ground ginger ½ tsp cinnamon ½ tsp nutmeg 3 cardamom pods Clementine 6 cloves (to pierce the Clementine) Method Make up a spice bag using muslin or a piece of thin cotton, with the ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom.

Place the red wine, water, brandy, orange juice and sugar in a large pan; add the spice bag, and clove-studded Clementine.

Heat slowly and simmer over a very low heat for at least 30 minutes. Serve with mince pies in front of the fire to round off a perfect Christmas day.

By Sarah Davey

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A Good Read

Revenge Wears Prada Lauren Weisberger This long-awaited sequel to ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ sees the central character Andy, out of the clutches of boss-fromhell Miranda Priestly, with her experience at Runway a long time behind her. As the book opens she is about to marry her dream husband and is a successful editor in her own right. What could possibly go wrong?

The answer of course is everything. While ten years may have passed, Andy still has nightmares about working for Miranda. And Max may seem to be perfect, but his mother is less than impressed with his choice of bride. Soon after the wedding Andy discovers that she is pregnant, and increasingly pulled in too many directions at once - wife, mother, career

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woman. Everything comes to a head when a big company expresses an interest in the magazine that Andy and her fellow survivor Emily have slaved to make a success bringing the terrifying figure of Miranda back into their lives...

As sequels go, this book is enjoyable enough – though it lacks the pace and some of the humour of the original.

Perhaps the biggest loss comes from the change in narrative perspective - instead of hearing Andy’s thoughts first hand, Weisberger uses the third person form, creating a sense of distance. The other issue is that there simply isn’t enough of Miranda - the titular devil of the first volume.

We can root for Andy, but it is her nemesis who fascinates and repulses us in equal measure.

The conclusion is not necessarily predictable, but perhaps a little too safe, giving a clear moral to the story.

It’s nice to find out what has happened to these characters - nice, but perhaps not really necessary.

Jack’s Mega Machines - The Rocket Racing Car - Alison Ritchie and Mike Byrne On the surface, this is a fairly typical picture book for 3 - 6 year olds. Jack is readying his rocket car for an amazing race, helped by Riley the dog. They line up against an array of alien craft and off they go - with all the thrills and spills you might expect.

The bonus, however, is that inside the book is a pull out model of the very rocket Jack is racing in, meaning that young readers can race along with him.

Simple and sturdy, it allows the story to be acted out, continued and extended as far as the child’s imagination can go - in other words, a very long way.

There are others in the series - a dinosaur digger and a supersonic submarine - which will appeal to the ‘collector instinct’ which all young boys seem to have. Simply told, engagingly drawn and with just the right balance of excitement, this is definitely one to look out for.

By Kath Bennett

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

Christmas Eve Countdown The big day is nearly here! So what can you do on Christmas Eve to make things easier on Christmas Day? Many top chefs support the idea of preparing much of the Christmas dinner well in advance.

Christmas puddings are often made months ahead, and many elements of a traditional Christmas dinner can be prepared the day before.

Commonly, vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, sprouts and potatoes are all peeled and left in saucepans of cold water.

It’s also a good idea to prepare the turkey, pigs in blankets, stuffing and any sauces. If you have bought a frozen turkey, you will almost certainly need to start the defrosting on Christmas Eve. If you have baked batches of mince pies or other goodies in advance and frozen them, do remember to check the freezer and take out anything that’s required.

I would like to wish all my friends and customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous 2014!

Ljubisa

PLS Taxis, Drumoak 01330 811999

Depending on your choice, some starters can also be made and stored in the fridge.

You might also want to lay your table. This job can easily end up rushed if left to Christmas Day, so why not take the time now to get it exactly how you want.

Finally, try to get to bed at a sensible time. That way you’ll be on top form for a fabulous Christmas!

Wishing all our friends and customers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy 2014 from all at Blinds Direct Kingswells

By Susan Brookes-Morris please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

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Remember no-pain, no-gain? It doesn't have to apply to laser hair removal. Soprano offers the right benefits that culminate in a treatment that minimizes the chances of negative side effects and maximises comfort. Over six years of clinically proven effectiveness. Cleared for all skin types and tanned skin. Safe to treat patients all year round. Gold standard 810 nm laser diode

It is an easy non-invasive, no downtime, comfortable deep therapeutic treatment which has been clinically proven in over a dozen studies and over 3.5 million independent treatments globally. In clinical studies, patients report an average reduction of 2.5 centimeters post treatment. A recent study of post-partum patients showed a 97% patient satisfaction.

Buy one area receive the second area half price

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ThermaVein ThermaVein offers the instant, safe and permanent removal of facial veins. Treatments offers consistent results, NO known-side effects and the highest safety.

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481 Great Western Road, Mannofield, Aberdeen 01224 325354 innocentaesthetics.co.uk

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www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

Professional Consultants Jan Leiper, is an Aesthetic Nurse Prescriber, who has been working privately in the Aesthetic field for 8 years, following qualifying in 1999. She specialises in all injectable rejuvenation and successfully manages her private clinic Innocent Aesthetics Ltd situated in Mannofied, Aberdeen. Her team provides aesthetic and beauty treatments using only the most commended aesthetic products and equipment.

“I personally advocate an exceptional standard of practice in my clinical setting, ensuring a pre consultation before any injectable treatment and including a follow-up service to ensure we all deliver a standard of service second to none. Using products from Allergan, Juvederm, Sculptra, Genuine Derma Roller, Dracula Therapy PRP, Thermavein, Obagi and Priori, I focus Jan Leiper on replacing lost volume, stabilising facial muscles, re-surfacing and replenishing your skin.”

Jan also specialises in the application of semi permanent make up and medical tattooing and has completed her HD Brow training. Clients can benefit from Jan’s expertise and have make up lasting 24 hours.

Our Aesthetic equipment has scientific results that you can trust to deliver results.

Noleen, Naomi and Clare, are all fully trained NVQ 3 beauty consultants/laser technicians. They provide all of our face and body rejuvenation using lasers and radio-frequency machines as well as Noleen Ferguson offering facial and body peels using Obagi and Priori products, safe and outstanding treatments in HD brows, LVL lashes, Nouveau lashes, intimate waxing, body waxing, Shrinking Violet body wraps, gel nails, body massage and MAC make-up.

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL OFFERS Semi-Permanent All areas £250 inc 4-week follow up

LVL Lashes Only £48 inc colour boost

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Visit us on Facebook to see more Before & After photos of our latest treatments please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

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www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

For Peace of Mind At Work or Home

What’s On Aboyne Woodend Barnstormers At MacRobert Memorial Hall, Tarland Saturday 14th December 2013, 20:00 Adair and the Holly King - A Magical Fairytale for Christmas At Deeside Community Theatre Saturday 21st December 2013, 19:00 Wu String Quartet At Victory Hall Sunday 12th January 2014, 15:00

What’s On Banchory Bookbug Rhymetime for Babies at Banchory Library Thursday 12th December 2013, 10:30 Mary Ann Orr Wreck: Exhibition Preview At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Thursday 12th December 2013, 18:00 - 20:00 The Nutcracker: Live from the Royal Opera HouseAt Woodend Barn Arts Centre Thursday 12th December 2013, 19:30 F.O.C.U.S (Festival of Crafts Unique to Scotland)

At Banchory Town Hall Saturday 14th December 2013

ChristmasAt Crathes Hall Friday 20th December 2013, 19:00

Falstaff - Verdi- Live from the MetAt Woodend Barn Arts CentreSaturday 14th December 2013, 17:55

Festive Farmers Market In Scott Skinner Square Saturday 21st December 2013, 09:00 - 13:00

HollyFest at Drum Castle At Drum Castle Saturday 14th December 2013, 11:00 - 16:00

Saturday Storytimes at Banchory Library Saturday 21st December 2013, 11:00 - 11:30

Labyrinth: An introduction and walk at Woodend Barn At Woodend Barn Arts CentreSunday 15th December 2013, 14:30

Film: A Muppets Christmas Carol At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Sunday 22nd December 2013, 15:30

HollyFest at Drum Castle Sunday 15th December 2013, 11:00 - 16:00

Banchory Blethers in Banchory Library Monday 6th January 2014, 14:00 - 15:00

Dancing on Sundays At Woodend Barn Arts CentreSunday 15th December 2013, 10:30 Singing for Joy with Mark & Fiona Hope At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Tuesday 17th December 2013, 10:30 Film: Miracle on 34th Street At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Wednesday 18th December 2013, 19:30 Film: Home Alone At Woodend Barn Arts CentreThursday 19th December 2013, 15:30 Adair and the Holly King - A Magical Fairytale for

Big Garden Birdwatch in the Park At Bellfield Park,Banchory Saturday 25th January 2014, 10:30 - 12:00 Giselle - Live from the Royal Opera House At Woodend Barn Arts Centre Monday 27th January 2014, 19:15 F.O.C.U.S (Festival of Crafts Unique to Scotland) At Banchory Town Hall Saturday 14th December 2013 Festive Farmers Market In Scott Skinner Square Saturday 21st December 2013, 09:00 - 13:00

please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

23

Give it Some Welly!

Wintry wet weather has us reaching for our wellies, but how much thought do we give them really? Hard-working wellies deserve a bit of TLC now and then.

First things first. A lot of wellies split at the heel seam, and this is because we insist on removing them using a step or our other foot to prise them off. Invest in a proper boot-remover. It will preserve the life of your wellies and make them much easier to take-off.

All eye examinations covered by NHS Optical Coherence Tomography for early diagnosis of Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration and Retinal Conditions.

Digital Retinal Photography Visual Field Analysis Emergency Eye Appointments Large range of Designer frames and specialised spectacle lenses Accredited by RACH for Children’s Eye Examinations

Home Visits Free Car parking Open Late night Tuesday - 7pm & Saturday - 4pm

CLEAN THEM. Yes - really. How often do you put your boots away still clogged with mud?

Take the time to rinse them with clean water then spray them with a boot protector. If your wellies are the sort with a zip, make sure the zip is clean and free-running before storing the boots. Spray the zip with a silicone spray and they’ll last for years.

Store them properly in a cool dry place. Don’t dry kid’s wellies on a radiator as they will become brittle and perish. Don’t leave them in a freezing greenhouse or shed either. A boot rack is great, because it lets you store them upside down (less chance of spiders or mice taking up residence!) and allows the air to circulate – meaning they won’t smell.

Finally, there are some terrific, colourful and fashionable wellies on the market today, so there’s no excuse not to take the kids puddlejumping. Go on, give it some welly!

By Louise Addison

Scott Gilmour BSc (Hons) MCOptom

5 The Courtyard, Cults, Aberdeen AB15 9SD

Telephone : 01224 - 863344 info@scottgilmouroptometrists.co.uk www.scottgilmouroptometrists.co.uk

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www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

Banchory Group Practice PPG News

The Patient Participation Group was set up four years ago by Banchory Group Practice. The purpose was to elicit the views of patients using the services and to listen to and act upon comments received. Our group meets four times a year.

As PPG members one of our main aims is to assist and support the Practice in the uptake of health services.

At the first flu clinic of the season we presented a wide range of information on various health issues. Practice staff and local health professionals assisted us on the day. The new blood pressure monitor proved very popular with nurses and GPs on hand to give advice on readings. The monitor was purchased courtesy of a patient donation and it is now available for use by patients in the waiting room.

Feedback from patients was very positive.

We hope therefore to organise a larger event next year open to all patients on a wider choice of health topics. All suggestions on any issue pertaining to healthy living will be most welcome. Please use the PPG suggestion box in the Practice waiting room for this purpose.

traditional Scottish

music, song and dance classes Want to find out more?

Our traditional music, song & dance evening classes are held at Harlaw Academy, Aberdeen.

Visit our website for more information on classes and watch our new video to see what we do. Online booking for our Spring Term opens in December with classes running from 13 January to 24 March. For all class enquiries including alternative ways to book please contact us using the details below.

Like us on facebook and sign up to receive our Email newsletters.

Our class programme includes: fiddle guitar bodhran pipes banjo clarsach flute mixed instruments session playing tin whistle mandolin harmonica ukulele accordion scots song ceilidh dance mixed percussion gaelic song w www.scottishculture.org e office@scottishculture.org t 07754 758677 Scottish Culture and Traditions Association (SC&T). A company limited by guarantee No 231578.

Registered in Scotland. Registered Office: 42 Carden Place, Aberdeen. Scottish Charity No.SCO 27559

please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

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clubs and classes...

2367 (Banchory) Squadron - Air Training Corps

The Air Training corps is a uniformed youth organisation supported by the Royal Air Force. For young people aged 13 and 17. www.2367sqn.org.uk Mon & Thur 7- 9.30pm McCombie Cadet Centre, Woodside Road, Banchory Aberdeen Patchwork & Quilting 01224 310379 The group meet monthly. Consisting of both beginners and more experienced quilters. We have speakers, demonstrations, workshops etc and would welcome new members. usually every third Wednesday in the month at Rubislaw Church Centre - 19.30-21.00 Facebook at aberdeenquilters or e: aberdeenquiltersgroup@gmail.com Awana A free childrens club (Nursery to P7) www.bcfchurch.org.uk Wed, 6.00 7.30pm Banchory Christian Fellowship Church, Burn of Bennie, Banchory Banchory & District Bridge Club For new people coming into the district, we can help with a bridge partner Tuesday, 6.50pm for 7pm start Burnett Arms Hotel, Banchory Banchory & District Round Table For men aged 18 - 45 years www.bad-rt.org Thursday, 7pm for 7.30pm Every 1st and 3rd Thursday, Banchory Lodge Hotel, Banchory Banchory Boys Football Club www.banchoryboysclub.co.uk Last Sunday of the month, 7pm Caters for children from last year in nursery to P7 for Saturday training sessions from 10 - 11.30am at KGV Park Banchory and then for development and competitive teams from U8 to U19 levels Banchory British Legion Banchory Community Badminton Club All abilities and ages welcome, Friday, 10-11.30am, Banchory Sports Centre Banchory Cricket Club Cricket available from 8 years of age through to seniors Burnett Park, Banchory Banchory East Badminton Club For age 14 years and upwards. Mon, 8-10pm, Banchory Academy Games Hall Banchory Gymnastics Club Girls from Primary 2 upwards. Waiting list in operation Tuesday , 3.30pm 5pm Banchory Sports Centre Banchory Morris Men Telephone 01330 822320 Lively dancing with stick, bells, etc. (and not just English, we also do Scottish dances at Crathes Village Hall - 815pm on a Tuesday.

Banchory Pipeband We are a non competing pipeband who welcome complete beginners to experienced musicians of all ages. Our practice is held on Wed between 7-9pm at the Banchory Royal British Legion.

Contact Banchorypipeband@hotmail.co.uk for more details.

Banchory Singers are a mixed voice Community Choir. Meet at the community centre at Banchory Academy Raemoir Road Banchory AB31 5TQ each Wednesday evening during school term time. 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm. Further info about the choir can be found on www.banchorysingers.co.uk Banchory Senior Citizens Club Our club meets at the Banchory Primary School Hall at 7.15pm on the first Tuesday of each month between Sept & June. We aim to provide an hour of musical entertainment, we also arrange a summer outing and a Christmas party. If you are 60 years plus why not contact us for more information on either of the follownig numbers - 01330-822977 or 01330 824318

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Banchory Sports Centre Banchory, AB315XP Phone: 01330 825269 E: banchory.sportscentre@aberdeenshire.gov.uk Banchory St Ternan Football Club www.eteamz.com/banchorystternan Tuesday, Thursday , 7 - 9pm Games on Saturday 1pm Milton Park, Crathes Banchory Stonehaven Athletic Club For ages: 9 years to adult www.banchorystonehavenac.co.uk Monday Mackie Academy, Slug Road, Stonehaven, AB39 3DF Banchory Trampoline Club.

We teach from Pre-School to youth, from beginner to excellence. Sessions most days at Banchory Sports Centre.

Contact; John Wills at johnj.gwills@btinternet.com Banchory Volleyball Club We are a mixed group & have an adult section (age S4 +) which meets on a Thursday evening starting at 7.30pm - 9.45pm and a junior section (ages S1 - S3) which meets on a Monday starting at 6.00pm - 7.30pm. Both groups meet in Banchory Academy games hall. The purpose is to understand & enjoy the game of volleyball and all abilities are welcome. Qualified coaches take both sessions. Find us on Facebook - Banchory Volleyball Club.

Birse Community Trust Exists to promote the common good of the inhabitants of Birse Parish and deliver wider public benefits. www.birsecommunitytrust.org.uk The Old Schoolhouse, Finzean Birse Community Trust Exists to promote the common good of the inhabitants of Birse Parish and deliver wider public benefits. www.birsecommunitytrust.org.uk The Old Schoolhouse, Finzean Campfield & Glassel WRI 1st Tuesday of each month. September - April, 7.30pm , Glassel Hall, Glassel City of Roses (Sweet Adelines International) Ladies singing group. Being able to read music an advantage but not necessary cityofroseschorus.co.uk Mon, 7.15-10.00pm Drumoak Church Hall, Drumoak Corse SWRI Tuesday, Evening , 3rd Tuesday of the month Corse Hall, Corse, Lumphanan Deeside Childrens Music Group From 9 - 15 years, Thursday, 4pm - 5.30pm In term time only, Aboyne Academy, Aboyne Deeside Community Transport Two community minibuses for hire by community groups and non-profit groups. Both 17 seats and wheelchair adaptable. Charges are ÂŁ1.00 per mile (as at July 2012), with a minimum invoice of ÂŁ20.00.

Deeside Gliding Club Instruction available to all ages groups (subject to a minimum weight / height) in flying gliders. New members welcome www.deesideglidingclub.co.uk Deeside Heritage Society Disabled access. Members and guests welcome. Tea and Coffee available.

Third Wednesday of month, September to March, Bowling Club Pavilion

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

 ...being able to see your health practitioner Mon - Sat 9am - 9pm in a relaxed, comfortable environment ...being able to discuss all your health concerns and issues in the same consultation ...all your diagnostic tests conducted in one place with state of the art equipment providing immediate results ...imagine side effect free, natural, gentle, effective medication ...imagine being able to have what the Swiss Government endorse for their national healthcare ...imagine safe, effective, chemical free skin and beauty treatments

biomedical clinics ISO 9001:2008 certified health and skin clinic

 01330 823937 www.biomedicalclinics.co.uk

Supermarket Opening Times Welcome to Morrisons Supermarkets, Banchory North Deeside Road Banchory, AB31 5YR 01330 820140

Opening times

Monday0800-2100 Tuesday0800-2100 Wednesday0800-2100 Thursday0800-2100

Friday0800-2100 Saturday0800-2100 Sunday0900-1900

Tesco Banchory Superstore Hill of Banchory East Banchory AB31 5QA. Telephone: 0845 0269618

Desk opening hours may not follow store opening hours.

Petrol Filling Station Forecourt facilities: Fuel 24 hours PayatPump Air and screen wash Fuels available: Unleaded Diesel Momentum99

Store Opening Times Monday 0600 midnight Tuesday 0600 midnight Wed 0600 midnight Thurs 0600 midnight Friday 0600 midnight Saturday 0600 midnight Sunday 0800 2200

Click & Collect Clothing and Direct collect a the service desk.

Monday 0800 2000 Tuesday 0800 2000 Wed 0800 2000 Thurs 0800 2000 Friday 0800 2000 Saturday 0800 2000 Sunday 0800 2200

please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

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Hypnotherapist Tel: 01224 321559

Jim Daniel Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapist/ Hypnohealer established 1994.

Dealing successfully with depression, lack of confidence, feelings of insecurity, panic attacks, blushing and addictive behaviour.

Children welcome. www.aberdeen-hypnotherapy.com

Compu-Care

Call Neil 07539-462-064 PC Repairs and Upgrades Aberdeen based. Collect and return service.

New systems available. £15 ph standard pc repairs. £25ph networking/ internet.

Allana Massie formally of Aristacut Cults and Riah Hair Design Banchory.

Now working within Kimz 543 Great Western Road, Aberdeen, AB10 6PE. To make an appointment call on 01224 319400.

A box this size will cost you you £92 for the whole year! £49 for half a year. Perfect for that small business that needs to use the advert as a shop front!

Start telling people about your local business today!

Tel : 01224 989085

Pre-school applications in Aberdeenshire Application packs will be available from Monday Janurary 13, 2014 for parents and carers of pre-school children for places in Aberdeenshire Council nursery classes and in approved independent playgroups and private day nurseries.

Parents should request an application pack from one of the providers listed at www.aberdeenshire. gov.uk/parentscarers/pre_school and submit an application directly to their preferred choice.

Every child in Aberdeenshire is currently entitled to five free education sessions per week in 2.5hr blocks during term time from the term after their third birthday.

In Aberdeenshire, pre-school children are admitted to local authority run nurseries at three points of the year running up to Spring 2015 as follows: •

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August 2014 for children who will be three by 31 August 2014

• January 2015 for children who will

be three by 31 December 2014 • April 2015 for children who will be

three by 28 February 2015 Parents are asked to submit application forms by no later than Friday, January 24 for those children wishing to access local authority nurseries.

Parents wishing to access places at approved independent playgroups and private day nurseries should submit an application form directly to their choice of approved pre-school provider. This can be submitted at any point during the year.

All of the groups listed are inspected by Education Scotland and the Care Inspectorate, as well as being quality assured by the council.

An application pack ‘Applying for Early Years PreSchool Education for your Child: 2014/15’ will be available from the pre-school education setting of choice and should be returned to the same location.

For application forms and more information on the application process, please visit: www. aberdeenshire.gov.uk/parentscarers/pre_school

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

clubs and classes...

Deeside Hillwalking Club An informal but active group, based around Banchory who focus on climbing munros and corbetts around Scotland. Minimum age 18 years We have a programme of events throughout the year, meeting approximately every 3rd weekend Deeside Musical Society We cater for ages 16 years onwards, but depending on productions we also cater for children e.g. if we are performing a pantomime. Fees £40 per session, concessions £30. Monday, 7.30pm Aboyne Academy Community Centre Deeside Orchestra Any age from 16 years and upwards. http://www.deeside-orchestra.co.uk Tuesday, 7.30-9.45pm Victory Hall. Ballater Road Aboyne Deeside Rugby Football Club Membership is open to all abilities and ages. Games and training at Woodend Playing Fields, Banchory. For Matches and Training Times www.deeside-rfc.co.uk Deeside School of Dance All types of class and singing and drama from 3yrs to adult Rdsd.co.uk Mon-Sat, Hill of Banchory South Banchory Deeside Youth Musical Theatre Age range 10 - 17 years. Theatre and musicals group performing one show per year usually in March Thurs, 6.30 - 8.00pm Deeside Community Centre Deeside Steam & Vintage Club Promotes the collection of steam and vintage machinery. Various events in the summer months from tractor runs to our annual rally The Deeside Village Hopper service is open to everyone! A scheduled service running Mon-Friday.

Please call for details 013398 85222, or see: www.mid-deeside.org.uk.

Deeside Writers First meeting free. £2 per meeting thereafter. Annual membership £10 www.deesidewriters.co.uk Tuesday, 7.30pm 3rd Tuesday of the month Woodend Barn, Banchory Drumoak & Durris Playgroup beehive.thisisnorthscotland.co.uk/default. asp?WCI=SiteHome&ID=5230 Tuesday-Friday mornings, 9.15am-11.15am Crossroads Nursery, Slug Road, Banchory Drumoak Durris Crathes Bowling Club Fees: Outdoor £50. Indoor £15, Juniors £12, Young Bowlers £25, Hats £1.50 Hat nights / Afternoons Tues & Frid 7pm or Wed & Sat 2pm. All ages welcome. Bowling Pavilion, Off North Deeside Road, Drumoak Durris Junior Agricultural Club Fees - depends on the age. Ages 14-26 to compete in competitions Varies, Usually 7.30pm Kirkton Hall, Durris Durris SWRI Disabled access. Fees £12 per year. Monday , 7.30pm 2nd Monday of the month Kirkton Hall, Durris Finzean : The Jolly Singers Finzean Hall Weds. 7.30 – 8.30 Bach to Berlin, via Berlioz and Burns.

Small group (mostly a capella) welcomes non readers. Louise 01330 850323

Finzean SWRI Thursday, 7.30pm 3rd Thur of every month from Sept until April Finzean Hall, Finzean Fitness for the Over 50s Monday, 11am - 12.30pm Weekly, Sept to June, Victory Hall, Aboyne Footstars A fun football and fitness activity for boys and girls aged 2-6 years.

Currently running sessions 7 days a week in Banchory, Stonehaven and Westhill www.footstars.co.uk Friends of Durris Forests We work closely with Forestry Commission Scotland to monitor the use, accessibility and state of Durris Forest and its outliers. www.friendsofdurrisforests.co.uk Girlguiding - Banchory 3 Rainbow Units aged 5-7, 4 Brownie Units aged 7-10 and 3 Guide Units aged 10-14 but due to Waiting Lists we would like to open further Units when we can get the Volunteer Leaders www. girlguiding.org.uk The Kerloch Flyers Club We are a small group of aeromodellers based in Banchory, but our flying field is near the Kerloch hill, hence our title. The club is affiliated to the Scottish Aeromodellers’ Association. Anyone who is interested should contact Sandy on 01330 825301.

Metafit Exercise Class 30 minute group exercise class. Monday evenings 7:30pm, Alexandra Park Banchory. £5pp Noahs Ark From Bumps to 3 years of age. Mums have opportunity for a coffee and a blether! Friday, 10am-12 West Church Hall, Banchory Raemoir WRI For any age, Tuesday, 7pm, Third Tuesday of the month, Dalvenie Gardens Resource Centre, Raemoir Lane, Banchory Rotary Club of Aboyne and Upper Deeside Meets on Monday evenings, alternating between the Boat Inn Aboyne and the Glen Lui Hotel Ballater. Guests welcome. For more information see us on Facebook and/or contact Mike Powell on 013398 86369 or mike.powell21@tiscali.co.uk Rotary Club of Banchory Ternan Open to all rotarians. www.banchory-ternan-rotary.com Wednesday, 6.15pm for 6.30pm The Burnett Arms Hotel, Banchory Royal Deeside 41 Club Friday - First Friday each month Burnett Arms Hotel, Banchory Royal Deeside Railway Preservation Society Railway restoration & working railway. All welcome www.deeside-railway.co.uk Mon,Tues, Fri, Sat, Sun, Daytime Light and heavy volunteer work available Milton of Crathes Visitor Centre, Crathes Saltire Tae Kwon-do Academies Age specific programmes. Ninja Kidz (4-6 yrs), Dragon Warriors (7-9 yrs), Juniors (10 - 12 yrs), Youth/Seniors (13+yrs) and Korean Kickboxing www.saltiretkd.com/ Scottish Accordion Music Group Sunday, 2nd Sunday of month Kirkton Hall, Durris

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Script to Screen & Stage Drama & Film classes for children of 7-12 years of age. Aboyne Class held in Victory Hall Thursday 4pm-6.30pm Banchory Classes held in Banchory Guide Hut 4pm -6pm & 6.15pm - 8.15pm Tel:01339 886265 email: s.2.s.and.stage@gmail.com www.script2screenandstage.co.uk Soft furnishing class in the Inchmarlo Hall Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning. I take 10 persons in each class and they can make anything from a cushion - chairs. Classes run in school term approximately 10 weeks. Contact Moira : 01330822984 Splat 0-5 s Music Group Children aged 0 - 5 years invited with carers. Fee: 50p per family.

Disabled access & facilities Wed 2pm - 3.15pm Term time only Drumoak Church Hall Strachan SWRI Ladies of all ages - £16 annual fee. Meet every third Thursday of the month. 7.30pm at Strachan Village Hall - Sept to May Tel : 01330 850442 Tai Chi Aberdeenshire For information about classes, tuition for groups or individuals, view the website. Instructor member of Tai Chi Union for GB www.taichiaberdeenshire.co.uk Take a Seat Adapted seated classes of Tai Chi (Tai Ji) and Chi Gung (Qi Gong) for people who are unable to stand to exercise www.takeaseat.org.uk Tarland Film Club Monthly films chosen by you. BYO snacks/refreshments. Open to those aged over 18 years in the Tarland area. Held in the upstairs room at the MacRobert Hall. Email: tarlandfilmgroup@hotmail.co.uk, or telephone 07880 935803. Facebook under ‘Tarland film-group’.

Tom-Toms Singing group for Mums and carers from birth to 4 years. Fees £2 per family per week. 2 sessions ; 10 - 10.30, then 10.30 - 11 am. After each session refreshments are available. This is a busy group please call first.

Banchory Ternan East Church Halls, www.banchoryeastchurch.org Tooters Music classes for young children in 3 age groups, Tooter Tots 0 - 2, Tooters 2 - 5 & Toots P1 & P2. Activities include singing, games, movement and instrument activities. tootersonline.co.uk White Crane Tai Chi Classes in Tai Chi (Tai Ji) and Chi Gung (Qi Gong). Established 2000 www.takeaseat.org.uk 7pm Banchory classes held on a Monday, Woodside Playgroup For children aged 2years 10 months to 4 years Daily, 9.30am-12 noon 12.45-3.15pm Burnett Park Pavilion, Banchory

Classes outwith the area...

Ceilidh Classes: First Tuesday each month at South St Nicholas Church in Kincorth 7:30 - 9:00 - £5 each session. Please call to check venue which may change from January. 2014: 7th Jan, 4th Feb, 4th Mar For more info www.aberdeenrscds.co.uk or call 01224 636 128.

Scottish Country Dancing classes for all levels (Introductory through Social to Advanced & Demo) Classes start again w/c January 6th 2014. Various venues around Aberdeen www.aberdeenrscds.co.uk or call 01224 636 128.

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Aboyne 50+ Ramblers Walking group for the over 50s. Walks normally between 5 - 10 miles Friday, 10am Car Park, Deeside Community Centre Aboyne Baby and Toddler Group Friday, 10am-11.30am Babies and Toddlers 0-3 years Deeside Comunity Education Centre, Aboyne Aboyne Badminton Club Ages catered for 25 yrs+.Play all year round.£3 per player per night. £40 half year membership Tuesday, 7.15 - 8.45pm Aboyne Community Centre Aboyne Bowling Club Disabled Access. During summer Aboyne Bowling Club Aboyne Craft Club Disabled access, for all ages and all abilities. Bi-annual exhibition, speakers, outings, demonstrations,outings and fun! Wed 10-12noon Aboyne Bowling Club Pavilion Aboyne Playgroup For ages from 2 to 3 and a quarter years. £7 per session, £5 concession for second child Tuesday - Thursday, 9.30am - 11.25am Gallery in the Deeside Community Education Centre, Aboyne Aboyne Primary School Chess Club Primary 4 - 7 aged children. Disabled Access. Monday, 3.15pm - 4pm Term time only Aboyne Primary School Aboyne & District Probus Club For retired professional & businessmen. Club meets fortnightly on the second and last Tuesday of the month at 10:00 for 10:30 in Victory Hall, Aboyne from September to April.

AboyneTennis Club Further information regarding coaching, competitive tennis, social tennis and social events can be found on our website www.aboynetennis.net Aboyne Youth Group For ages 12-18 years. Drop in, tuck shop, pool table etc. Free Friday, 7pm - 9.45 pm Term time only Deeside Community Education Centre, Aboyne Fitsteps - Fitness that’s ‘strictly’ Fun Classes : Kinord Hall Dinnet -Tues 8pm; Inchmarlo Hall-Wed 7pm Kinord Hall Dinnet -Thurs 10am Enquiries - Danielle 07741258390 Upper Deeside Art Society Annual fee of £18.00, individual workshop fee of £20.00. Talks cover a range of arts related subjects, while the workshops cater for a variety of mediums and subjects. www.udas.org.uk Friday, 2pm Monthly, also monthly Saturday workshops Aboyne Bowling Club Northern Arts Club 8 Bon Accord Square, Aberdeen, Tel : 01224 586928 Drop in Classes Wednesday and Friday 10-12noon Classes run throughout the year. Cost £50 per year. Tutor session once a month additional cost £6. Suitable for all abilities, contact Jacqueline 07597 126739 New Classes - Oil Painting and Life Drawing : www.northernartsclub.co.uk Saturday Life Drawing Class 10am-1pm Tutor Ian Smart contact 01224 484040 Bridge Tuition Beginner & Intermediate - Thurs evening - Margaret 01224 868230

www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk 01224 949085 email : gazette@fsmail.net

As the final word of 2013!

THANK YOU To all the writers, readers, advertisers & delivery team without you the magazine could not be.

Here’s hoping 2014 will make it even better.

West End - Deeside - Kingswells

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