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Issue 38

Mar-Apr 2016

Drumoak and Banchory

Supporting Seniors - Companionship Meals - Domestic assistance

Tel: 01330 70 50 99

www.betterathomecare.co.uk Successfully introducing local people - local businesses since 2005

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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. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. We thank you for taking the time to read the small print.

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

independent publisher : Sue Simpson All enquiries :

landline: 01224 949085 mobile : 07813 964 875 email : deeside@gazettemagazines.com www.gazettemagazines.com

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A note from Sue… The picture is of my middle son and me at the top of Scolty Hill - isn’t it wonderful what we have on our doorstep and probably take for granted!

This issue we have what’s on at Woodend Barn for the next few months and a taste of what you can see at HMT, Music Hall and Lemon Tree in Aberdeen. Not forgetting the Banchory Singers and Albacappella who have something to offer every age range.

Jack is telling us a wee tale about being a couch potato and there is a tall tale from the Ceilidh band. Retail therapy for the eyes - step into the new look Scott Gilmour Optometrists in Cults as their extensive display of 600 frames is bound to impress. Inspired by the Bake-Off for Comic Relief then why not try the very easy banana and walnut loaf, one of my personal favourites.

Isn’t it funny that we gained an extra day this year but due to Easter falling early it feels like we are further on in the year than we are - why is that?

The Easter bunny will of course be very busy hiding all those eggs all over Crathes Castle for the children to find.

Two issues ago - we ran a competition to find out which local independent business you thought would benefit from some advertising, in return you would win a mini-hamper. I’m pleased to say that Pam Thomson from Banchory was the lucky winner of the hamper and Pam voted for Phoebe’s Room which is an online business that also does NEOS. They have a strong Facebook following too... https://www.facebook.com/Phoebes-Room-Scotland-213707105310214/ You’ll get to experience a whole lot more from Phoebes Room in a forthcoming issue.

So go grab that cuppa and enjoy this issue and we’ll see you again in May. NB: Clocks go forward at the end of March.

Until next time,

Sue

Deeside gazette Banchory & Drumoak Deadlines : 2015

Banchory & Drumoak

Distribution - thanks to : Stuart - Ross - Sue Owen - Sammy - Helena

27 Oct (Nov-Dec)

Other magazines we publish *West End gazette Area 1 West End gazette Area 2 Kingswells Community News AB41 magazine (quarterly)

20 Dec (Jan-Feb 2017)

* same month as Deeside

27 Apr (May-June mag) 27 Jun (July-Aug mag) 27 Aug (Sept-Oct)

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Get noticed first by grabbing our front page slot Now in my tenth year as a publisher the front page is now open to a banner advert to all five magazines! A golden opportunity to capture the reader’s eye before they have even opened the magazine. Follow it through with a continuation advert inside for double momentum!

Why not phone/email/text to find out more or to book the first one?

Our next deadline is 27 April for the May-June magazines to Deeside and West End 1 Want something quicker then 27 March will get you in the April-May issues of West End 2 (Hazlehead/Queens Cross/Mannofield and the Kingswells magazines. As a stand-alone advert it’s £150 per issue per magazine. Want a front page & full page inside then it’s £340.

Delay no further, call Sue on 01224 949085 or text 07813 964 875 or email deeside@gazettemagazines.com

Size : 124mm x 30mm Follow through with an ad inside too...

Front covers are on special at £150 per magazine per issue - grab one whilst you can!

Introductory Offer for Landlords …

…Management Fee!

Why not try our Personal and Reliable Service!

01224 611606 info@parkhillproperties.co.uk

Terms and Condition Apply

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Runner’s Corner

should resist training each and every day, as was my want.

A Couch Potato’s Dream

“Rest is important”, he said, “Because it’s when we’re resting that we get fit, not when we’re running.” Wow, “A couchpotato’s dream!” I thought- but that of course is not the whole story.

Some years ago, whilst I was chomping and straining at the bit as a somewhat

younger version of the enthusiastic athlete that resides in me, a senior and experienced runner at my club explained in simple format why I

On a molecular level our muscles incur many micro-splits or damages during ordinary training, which in itself doesn’t help our fitness and if anything, leaves us feeling tired and sore. However, as this damage repairs itself, the tissues grow back stronger than before which enables us to better perform whatever activity did the stressing in the first place.

The process of becoming fitter involves stressing certain muscle groups,

All five or just one?

West End 1 -

Bieldside/Cults/Holburn

Deeside -

get yourself noticed in 2016

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Banchory/Drumoak ----------------------------------

West End 2 -

Hazlehead/Queens Cross/ Mannofield

advertise monthly with gazette magazines, we’ve been doing it since 2005 so we know what we are about!

Kingswells -

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AB41 -

exactly that ---------------------------------quarterly mag to Ellon

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5 and then resting them. At the same time we are stressing other support systems such as the respiratory cycle, cardio-vascular components and not forgetting our willpower, getting results in these areas by pretty much the same mechanism. However, we do need to isolate the individual aspects of what it means to be fit and then to invest time developing each one on its own, especially our weakest link.

Taking this idea to the next level helps us to understand the idea of period training, which technique calls for a shifting in focus from one area of training to another according to a preplanned process throughout the year.

The ideal plan would prepare a runner for a key race or races, while utilising slack periods in business and social life for the more intense weeks of training, because it must be said that we all should have a life outside of running. (Someone has to pay for the running shoes and kids won’t grow up to be runners unless we spend some time with them.) The exact order and choice of training varies according to individual circumstance, but should include periods of training in core strength, speed and the old favourite - endurance. And it’s the endurance aspect that all too often trips up the unsuspecting and diligent athletein-training. Certainly, from my own experience, I find that as my training program progresses into the latter stages of typically higher mileage weeks, I find it increasingly difficult to find time to fit all the training modules into my weekly schedule, so I tend to drop the boring core-strengthening

sessions in favour of maintaining actual miles on the road. This lapse has in the past, caused an imbalance in muscle development and resulted in quite serious injury – enough to stop me from training completely for nearly a whole year.

On that rather sobering thought, I’ll leave you to the not unpleasant task of planning the year ahead, booking holidays and of course getting places in your favourite races. A wonderful resource for finding races, which includes a handy personal planner, can be found at www.runabc.co.uk or pick up a free copy from your local Banchory Running Club, details online at www.banchoryrunningclub.com

By Jack Honey

B

NCHORY

Running Club

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Sweet dreams for Deeside singers A ladies’ singing group is holding a free learn to sing course in Peterculter on 20 March.

Albacappella, which is based in Peterculter is inviting local ladies to its one day ‘Love to Sing’ course, which will take place on Sunday 20 March. The group’s musical director, Mike Warner, will teach Sweet Dreams, by Aberdeen’s own songstress Annie Lennox.

The chorus rehearses at the St Peter’s Heritage Hall and regularly performs its barbershop style of singing across the North east. Albacappella, which welcomes women of all ages, beginners and seasoned singers alike, is offering the free course in a bid to encourage more people to enjoy its friendly style of singing.

Chairwoman Tina Newcombe said: “We are inviting women from teenagers to retirees to come along and learn how to sing Sweet Dreams in just a few hours. Our musical director is an award winning coach and competition judge, and his friendly style enables us to learn songs quickly and in perfect harmony.”

Albacappella, which sings a wide range of music from classic barbershop to pop songs including ‘500 miles’ and ‘Happy’, recently took part in a national ladies’ barbershop competition in England.

Ms Newcombe added: “We encourage women of all ages to come along on Sunday, 20th March and join us. We chose to learn Sweet Dreams as it is a favourite of the chorus, being written by Aberdeen’s

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own Annie Lennox. If you find yourself singing in the shower or in the car, but would love to refine your sound or sing with others, this course is for you. There is no charge for the course and no experience is necessary – all that is required is a sense of humour and a love of singing.”

A little bit of background details ...

The Albacappella Love to Sing Course will take place at the St Peter’s Heritage Hall from 10am – 4pm on Sunday 20th March.

Albacappella is a ladies’ barbershop harmony group, established in 2012. The group sings classical harmony songs as well as pop and modern tunes. The chorus is a member of the Ladies Association of Barbershop Singers.

Barbershop harmony is a style of unaccompanied vocal music characterised by consonant four-part chords for every melody note in a predominantly homophonic texture. The melody is consistently sung by the lead, with the tenor harmonising above the melody, the bass singing the lowest harmonising notes and the baritone completing the chord.

Albacappella sings under the direction of Mike Warner, a 30+ year barbershop singer, with experience at performing at the highest level in British Barbershop, winning chorus gold medals and Llangollen Eisteddfod Choir of the world with Cambridge Chord Company and national quartet golds with iQ and The Works. He is a trained vocal coach and qualified contest judge. His singing and judging skills have taken him to USA, Canada, Holland, Belgium, Spain as well as UK and Ireland.

Mike and his wife Faybianne founded Albacappella in 2012.

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Banana and Walnut Loaf Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 60-70 minutes Ingredients 225g plain flour 2 level tsp baking powder 80g softened or spreadable butter 1 large egg (beaten) 110g caster sugar 4 medium bananas (peeled) 50g walnuts (chopped) Zest 1 lemon Demerara sugar for sprinkling Method Preheat oven to 180C / gas 4. Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin.

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Mash three bananas to a pulp and chop the fourth.

Sift the flour and baking powder together into a separate bowl. Add the butter, egg and caster sugar. Using a mixer mix everything together for a minute or two.

Add the mashed and chopped bananas and briefly whisk them into the mixture. Fold in the chopped walnuts and lemon zest.

Spoon the cake mixture into the prepared tin. Sprinkle with Demerara sugar.

Place in the pre-heated oven so that the top of the tin is in the centre. Bake for 6070 minutes until a skewer inserted into the cake comes out clean.

Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes then turn out on to a cooling rack.

This cake is good served warm with crème fraiche, cold, or even toasted.

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Old Skene Road, Kingswells, Aberdeen, AB15 8QA Tel. 01224 740318 Email. info@fourmile.co.uk

www.fourmile.co.uk

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Step into Scott Gi

S

cott Gilmour optometrists is a family friendly opticians which was established in Cults in 2003.

Over the last 13 years the practice has always prided itself on keeping up-to-date with technology whilst maintaining their caring values. The above photos show the results of the recent extensive refurbishment.

The new found space has opened up an area for even more glasses and sunglasses to be out on display. In fact there are over 600 frames and l people - local busine loca ss

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o the new look ilmour Optometrists 100 sun specs to choose from! Something to suit every budget and includes frames covered under the NHS. The space created makes it as comfortable as possible for all ages to pick new eye wear.

The test room has been enlarged too and now incorporates the latest sight testing equipment ensuring your eye examination is completed with maximum efficiency and comfort.

The two new dispensing areas allow the trained dispensers to offer personal and impartial advice on lenses and frames, plus complimentary adjustments for the lifetime of your eye wear as a nice wee extra.

The feedback from existing patients has been very favourable and for passers by the window displays always attract attention.

Why not pay a visit to the shop in Cults and experience it for yourself. We don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

Scott Gilmour Optometrists 5 The Courtyard Cults, Aberdeen AB15 9SD Tel: 01224 863344 email: info@sgoptom.co.uk www.scottgilmouroptometrists.co.uk

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Holiday Let : Charming, detached, two bedroom cottage in Drumoak on Deeside. Perfect for overseas visitors... Family visits ...

Check availability below http://www.cottages.com/cottages/thornton-cottage-sppr

Wiltshire Farm Foods

launches new campaign led

by Fern Britton Wiltshire Farm Foods, the UK’s leading provider of home-delivered frozen ready meals, is launching a new national advertising campaign starring TV personality, Fern Britton.

Richard Speak runs the Ellon office for Wiltshire Farm Foods, and said “It’s fantastic to have Fern Britton starring in our advertising. She joined us all at our conference last year, and I was delighted to meet her. Fern has a real passion for our business, and is genuinely interested in the meals themselves, and the outstanding service we provide.”

“She has a busy lifestyle, and I was interested to hear

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she has placed an order herself and tried a number of meals from the range.”

As Fern herself says “Wiltshire Farm Foods provides an outstanding service that means everyone can enjoy the convenience of a tasty meal, every day.”

That range now includes “Nutritious and Delicious”, meals which are less than 400 calories and low in salt and saturated fat, as well as more than 150 gluten free meals. There are also hearty and mini meals, to provide options for a range of appetites, and a broad selection of desserts and cakes.

In total, there are now more than 300 delicious meals available, all cooked fresh then quick frozen to lock the goodness in. What’s more, there is free delivery by friendly local drivers from Wiltshire Farm Foods.

Richard and Morag have been running Wiltshire Farm Foods now for three years out at their base at Balmacassie Commercial Centre (behind Tesco).

They currently employ 13 staff who are from Ellon, Peterhead and Aberdeen.

Customers can purchase direct from them as they are open 8am-4pm MonFri, but the bulk of the customers have their meals delivered direct to their door. There is a daily drop off to Aberdeen city and other parts of the shire are weekly.

The new Delicious and Nutritious range is for the more health conscious, but there is a fab range of foods.

Catering for small appetites, gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian, in fact something for everyone old and young.

For information about Wiltshire Farm Foods, contact 01358 725 200 or visit: wiltshirefarmfoods. com and ask for a free brochure.

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Being in Aberdeen we’re always on hand to deliver.

Chicken & Vegetable Casserole ÂŁ2.95 Choose from over 300 tasty recipes.

Order what you want. No-contract.

No-commitment. Delivered free.

For your FREE brochure

01358 725 200 wiltshirefarmfoods.com

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Training to be a therapist: in Australia I had never heard of Trager Therapy, but meeting an old friend at an Aberdeen University Reunion in 2009 who was a Practitioner, I was intrigued. The originator was Dr Milton Trager, who developed this curious mixture of meditation, massage and movement from working with people with movement problems; initially children with polio. What interested me though was the link to meditation, because I had used Transcendental Meditation since 1978 and Milton had been one of the first people taught by the Maharishi in the 1950s. It seemed as if Milton’s approach might be a simple way of sharing the tranquility that one got from meditation with others, in a therapeutic context. I had also dabbled a bit with Swedish massage some years earlier but never considered this or any

other type of therapy as an occupation.

But I had now taken early retirement and anything was possible.

I went to Brighton to try a Trager session with Geralyn, a cheery Irish Practitioner, I found on the Internet. Impressed, I had another session a month or so later, and she suggested that I might consider training. First stage was only six days.

Only problem, no courses at present in UK, and I was impatient. Courses in German and French were available just across the channel, but the only one for many months in English was by an Austrian instructor in Australia. My French was poor and German worse. Australia seemed out of the question but I sent off an enquiry anyway to see how much it would cost. Sorry,

Short of time? Too busy? Need an extra pair of hands? Overwhelmed?

Goshen Lifestyle - can take care of your day-to-day needs, errands and chores.

We offer: Assisted Living Services Home care and Support for mum and dad; the elderly and family; Personal care (Baths, showers, night settling); Companionship and Entertainment; Meal service- Preparation and serving; Prescribed and Dispensed Medication prompting; Grocery shopping; Arranging social and medical appointments; Concierge/ Transportation services; Overnight care/Sleep ins/Respite Care and Domestic Assistance around the home Errand Services Door to door transportation to your appointments; Prescription collection; Receiving home deliveries; Key holding service to admit and supervise workmen; Dropping off and picking up post and dry-cleaning etc and Gift buying Whatever your needs, we have a solution Contact us on: Tel: 01224 766634 Mobile: 07775 675 703 Email: bostol@goshenheath.co.uk www.goshenhealth.co.uk/lifestyle Registered with the Care Inspectorate CS 2015338815 l people - local busine loca ss

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15 they were full up but how did I come to be interested? I mentioned my university friend, who turned out to have given the Australian organiser her first Trager session twenty years earlier in India. Small world.

She felt they might manage to squeeze me in. The price was lower than it would have been in the UK but it was an awfully long way. My wife was fairly skeptical “why can’t you try something normal?” The only possibility was to make the trip as brief as possible. One day to travel out, one day to recover from jet lag, six days for the course and one day to get back. That should minimize domestic problems.

I suspect that few people travel from Aberdeen to Perth Australia in February as I got a good fare, and the journey was straightforward. The course was at a place called Denmark, south of Perth, and was quite remarkable.

I had never been to Australia, and the dusty landscapes and the Kangaroos and the Eucalyptus trees and the vast distances and the heat all All Phase IV Cardiac Rehab Exercise classes are taken by Instructors who hold BACR cardiac exercise qualifications which are recognised by NHS Grampian for referral purposes. For further info : GCRA Administrator, Tel: 01888 569160 E-mail info@gcra.org.uk Banchory Sports Centre, Raemoir Rd Mon 11.30–12.30pm / Fri 11–12pm

made a big impression. The Ozzies were really friendly and the food good.

The training room was a Yoga centre with spectacular views of the sea. Wonderfully warm too, after Aberdeen. The first day my wife reported that snow had been falling.

We began to learn some of the many types of moves on a massage table, first on the front of the body then on the back. I rang home, and my wife reported that the snow was getting worse. I bought a new t shirt and we started to try out some of the meditative types of self-treatment moves.

At lunch time we had casual picnics in the sun. My wife called to say that the water had frozen, our long drive was completely blocked, and she was trying to get a local farmer to snow plough it. The six days sped past. On day five my mother fell downstairs and had to be taken to hospital - with a broken hip.

Was it worth it, definitely, and nearly two years later I became a Practitioner myself, but the timing was certainly a bit unfortunate.

Neil Bayfield

EASIER Movement Easier MIND For the less mobile Trager® massage and gentle exercises to increase range and ease of movement See website for trial offer Neil Bayfield 013398 83631

www.trageraberdeeenshire.co.uk Home visits possible

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Spots!

Often appearing at the worst times; spots are unsightly and can be uncomfortable. They occur when oil called sebum comes into contact with blocked pores.

To reduce the risk of spots you should prevent excess oil build up by keeping your hair clean and off your face, not wearing tight clothes or bag straps which rub and not resting your face on telephones. You should also avoid the use of irritants like greasy makeup and certain sunscreens and hair products. Daily washing with a gentle cleanser is recommended and remember to wash your towels regularly because dirty ones spread bacteria. A healthy diet can also help and there are special vitamin products available to aid healthy skin.

If you do get a spot you can try products which contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and alpha hydroxy acids, as these help to unblock pores, prevent oiliness, kill bacteria and speed up the growth of new skin cells. You should avoid squeezing spots as this can cause infection and scarring. Exfoliation can improve the effectiveness of topical treatments and improve the appearance of skin.

Various technology products such as light and heat therapy are also available.

Acne is something very different.

This needs to be treated by a doctor possibly with antibiotics. More extreme cases will be referred to a dermatologist.

By Susan Brookes-Morris

Climate Change Involves YOU Enjoy learning all about it: TALKS – Climate Change: the Future?

Central Library, Wed 16 March, 18:30 Big Breakfast Aberdeen – Climate Change Hazlehead Park Café, Thurs 17 March FILMS – Belmont Filmhouse all week EXHIBITS – Central Library, Winter Gardens, Hazlehead Park, the Belmont AND MORE… Swap Fair, Night Walk, Family Discovery Day, Planetarium Shows See www.climateweekaberdeen.org for details

artwork by: Ade Adesina

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BANCHORY SINGERS, our fun loving community choir exudes variety in both their musical repertoire and their members.

They meet in the West Church every Wednesday at 7.15pm and are busy rehearsing songs as diverse as the rousing 'Don't Stop me Now' from Queen through Mozart and the gentle Eli Jenkins prayer to the tricky, rhythmical 'Come to the Music' by Joseph Martin.

Members are from all walks of life and vary in age from Rebecca, 25 years to Peter, 94 years!

They recently enjoyed a night out with dinner at the Banchory Lodge Hotel.

Next concerts will be in Alford on May 14th and Banchory on May 15th.

Further info from leipertara@gmail.com

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&

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What’s On at Woodend Barn Saturday 26 March @ 7pm

Monday 4 - Saturday 9 April

Easter Barn Dance: Forget-MeNot Club & Barn Fundraiser

Mini Fest

Join us for a fabulous fun-filled Barn Dance to raise funds for local charity Forget-Me-Not Club and for Woodend Barn.

The evening includes live music with dancing, games and a raffle.

Come dressed in your cowboy boots for what’s sure to be a toe-tapping night.

Fun for all the family. £12, £5 U16s ________________________ Saturday 2 April @ 8pm RANT 2016 sees the release of the second album from RANT, firmly established as a huge musical force and a strong, raw, yet vibrant sound on the British folk scene.

Bethany Reid, Jenna Reid, Sarah-Jane Summers and Lauren MacColl join forces to create a sound rich and vibrant, evocative of the exciting scene they create music in. Using just their fiddles, they weave a tapestry of melodies, textures, layers and sounds.

There will be a pre show talk for Friends of the Barn only.

“Hypnotic” The Herald £11, £10 conc, £5.50 U16 in advance £12.50, £11 conc, £6.50 U16 on the door ________________________

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Join us as Mini Fest returns this Easter holidays.

A week of performances, workshops and free creative activities for 6 months to 12 years.

Visit our website for more details. www.woodendbarn.co.uk _________________________ Wednesday 13 April @ 2.30pm Film: The Secret of Kells (PG) (2009) The Secret of Kells is a magical animated classic that tells the story of Brendan, a young monk whose life is changed forever when he is initiated into the secrets of the Book of Kells and embarks on an extraordinary adventure, meeting fearsome monsters, Vikings, and a serpent god along the way.

Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, it is a unique and stunning adventure for the whole family that kicks off our Literature Season.

Running time 75 minutes £6, £5 conc _________________________ Thurs 14 April @ 7.30pm Peter Morrison In recent years Peter Morrison has come to regard the Woodend Barn as a home

from home in theatrical terms. No surprise then to find him returning with his son Richard and daughter Jackie with another edition of Broadway and Beyond, featuring Broadway and movie hits, popular operatic arias, a Scots song or two, some well loved favourites - and a bit of a singalong if you feel like joining in. They will be joined by other friends, and will of course be directed at the piano

by Peter’s accomplished MD, Alan Kitchen. Come along and join them for an unforgettable musical evening. In support of Forget-Me-Not Club. £11, £10 conc. £5.50 U16 in advance £13.50, £11 conc. £6.50 U16 on the door _________________________ Sun 17 April @ 8pm John McCusker Band: 25th Anniversary Tour “One of the UK’s most gifted and versatile musicians in any genre, John McCusker is equally in demand as a multiinstrumentalist, producer and composer” The Guardian 2016 sees folk musician John celebrate 25 years as a professional musician; publishing a book of his compositions, releasing a new solo record & embarking on an extensive UK & European tour. The John McCusker band features some of the

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19 finest traditional musicians and singers in the UK: Andy Cutting, Adam Holmes, Innes White & Toby Shaer. £15.50, £13.50 conc, £6.50 U16 in advance £16.50, £14.50 conc, £7.50 U16 on the door _________________________ Wed 20 April @ 7.30pm Film: Macbeth (15) (2015) (TBC) To mark 400 years of William Shakespeare’s legacy, we screen the latest film adaption of Macbeth. After murdering King Duncan and seizing the throne, Macbeth becomes consumed with guilt and paranoia as the tyrannical ruler of Scotland.

Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard provide spell-binding performances that only threaten to be upstaged by Adam Arkapaw’s cinematography which captures the rugged and dramatic landscapes beautifully.

Running time 113 minutes £6, £5 conc _________________________

Wed 18 May @ 7.15pm

early 1900s.

The Royal Ballet: Frankenstein (12A) (Live Screening)

Representatives from the Grassic Gibbon Centre and University of Aberdeen will take part in a Q&A following the film.

Royal Ballet Artist in Residence Liam Scarlett has chosen Mary Shelley’s gothic classic Frankenstein as the basis for his first full-length narrative ballet for the Covent Garden Main Stage. It inspires Scarlett to explore the very depths of human nature and our need to find acceptance.

For this exciting new ballet Scarlett returns to the music of Lowell Liebermann, from whom he has commissioned a brand new score.

Running time TBC £16.50, £14.50 conc, £5.50 U16 in advance £17.50, £15.50 conc, £6.50 U16 on the door _________________________ Wed 25 May @ 7.30pm Film: Sunset Song (15) (2015) Closing our Literature Season sees Lewis Grassic Gibbon’s novel Sunset Song finally adapted for the big screen, filmed on location in Aberdeenshire.

The daughter of a North East farmer comes of age in the

Running times 135 minutes £6, £5 conc _________________________ Fri 27 May @ 8pm The Claire Hastings Band Hastings’ talents not just as a musician but as a compelling storyteller were obvious (The Herald) Since winning the BBC Young Traditional Musician of the Year title in 2015, folk singer Claire Hastings has been working towards her much anticipated debut album: Between River and Railway. The album features exciting arrangements of traditional folk songs alongside Claire’s self-penned material, which will be brought to life with band members Jenn Butterworth (guitar & vocals), Laura Wilkie (fiddle) and Andrew Waite (accordion). £11, £10 conc, £5.50 U16 in advance £12.50, £11 conc, £6.50 U16 on the door _________________________

Call 01330 825431 for more info or visit www.woodendbarn.co.uk www.gazettemagazines.com 01224 949085 email : deeside@gazettemagazines.com

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What’s On at HMT, Music Hall + Lemon Tree Friday, March 18: Whirl and paddy bar the night away with an evening of traditional Scottish dancing with Clachan Yell, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen at 8pm.

Friday, March 18: Theatre Gu Leor presents Shrapnel, adapted by Catriona Lexy Chaimbeul from the novel

by Tormod Caimbeul, which follows a man on the run for a crime he did not commit, as he meets an array of extraordinary misfits, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 7pm.

Saturday, March 19: Jango Starr presents One Man Shoe, a new show for children and families, when bumbling theatre caretaker Jango is thrust into the limelight after the headline act fails to turn up, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 2pm.

Saturday, March 19: The nation’s favourite violinist Nicola Benedetti joins Royal Scottish National Orchestra to perform Szymanowski’s Violin Concerto No2, in a programme which also includes Borodin’s Overture to Prince Igor and Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

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Saturday, March 19: Voted Best Live Act 2013 and Best Folk Band 2012 at the Scots Trad Music Awards and twice no9minated Best Band at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, Scottish five-piece Breabach, in the Lemon Tree Lounge (seated), West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Sunday, March 20: Aberdeen Music Centre’s Spring Concerts, featuring local young talent, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 1pm and 7pm.

Monday, March 21: Back with another fantastic tour, the Grammy-nominated Lulu, performing hits from her 50-year career, including To Sir With Love, The Man Who Sold the World, Relight My Fire and Shout, in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Tuesday, March 22: Aberdeen Choral Society, with the Grampian Sinfonietta and the Aberdeen University Choral Society to celebrate its 70th season with a gala performance of Mendelssohn’s monumental oratorio Elijah, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Wednesday, March 23: With an entertaining night of music played by local talent, Aberdeenshire Music

Centre take their spring concert to the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

Thursday, March 24: English stand-up comedian, broadcaster, newspaper columnist and author Mark Steel: Who Do You Think I Am, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (seated), West North Street, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Thursday to Saturday, March 24 to 26: Scotland’s own Allan Stewart, Andy Gray and Grant Stott in a funny play about being funny, Canned Laughter, in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm, with 2.30pm Saturday matinee.

Friday, March 25: Comedian, author, and sports pundit Mark Watson brings his new show, I’m Not Here, the follow-up to his highly-celebrated and successful Flaws, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (seated), West North Street, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Saturday, March 26: Longestablished as Europe’s most successful exponents of retro-inspired rock & roll, Showaddywaddy, in the Lemon Tree Lounge (standing), West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7pm.

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21

Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel : 01224 641122 Sunday, March 27: Celebrating 20 years since their formation, Glasgow trio bis, promoting their double cd collection featuring music from the last two decades, plus support from Hjearts and Bratakus, in the Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 8.30pm.

Tuesday, March 29: Record-breaking cyclist Mark Beaumont, talks about setting a world record when he cycled 6718 miles the length of Africa solo, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (seated), West North Street, Aberdeen, at 8pm.

Tuesday, March 29 to Saturday, April 2: Winner of the Tony Awards ‘triple crown’ for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, Avenue Q is performed by a cast of hugely talented performers and puppets, in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm from Tuesday to Thursday, 5pm and 8.30pm on Friday and 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Saturday.

Thursday, March 31: As part of Aberdeen Performing Arts’ Freshly Squeezed series, up-and-coming Americana band from Aberdeen, Broken Rivers, plus Hypochristmutreefuzz, Nicky Aiken and Craig John Davidson, in the Lemon Tree Lounge (standing), West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm.

Thursday, March 31: As part of the Music Hall’s Lights Oot programme, Aberdeen Performing Arts associate artists Aidan O’Rourke and Jason Singh present CONNECT:ED, a concert featuring many of the local musicians from communities around the North-east they have been working with, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

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Tales from NE Ceilidhs : Getting Hungry!

Some people book a band, expect them to turn up early to set up, play for four hours or more and don’t seem to notice that we begin to wilt a bit after a couple of hours. Early on we learnt to insert a small but important sentence in our confirmation of booking; “We would be very grateful for a sandwich or other refreshment during the interval”. It has paid dividends.

At weddings, sandwiches and sausage rolls during the ceilidh are often the order of the day, because the main wedding guests have already had a big feed at the wedding breakfast. Why “breakfast” one wonders. It’s usually, in the afternoon, here in the North East! Very often the wedding breakfast goes on and on... particularly if the speeches get out of hand. Weddings are notorious for not keeping to time, but the band has to be there on schedule just in case this one is the exception. Not much can go wrong with sandwiches, although we did have one memorable wedding where the Hotel ran out after only a third of the guests had eaten and there was a long delay while someone rushed around trying to find ingredients for more. Not wanting to appear too pushy, the Band were amongst those that had to wait. They even ran out of coffee. It was superficially quite a posh Hotel in the centre of Aberdeen (name withheld!), although the carpets were a bit threadbare.

The standard ceilidh fare though, is of course stovies. Now there is great variation in stovies. It seems to be thought that anyone can make stovies and all you need is mashed potato

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and some left over meat.

Not so. Good stovies need slowly cooked sliced or diced potatoes, dripping, onions and the right proportion of stewed beef or lamb. Our band reckon to be experts, at least at tasting. The gold standard used to be stovies from the Burnett Arms at Banchory. Fantastic flavour and texture, and if you ordered for 50 there was usually enough for 75! We still rank the stovies at each ceilidh against the gold standard. Not many get more than 7 out of 10. Sadly the chef at the Burnett retired a few years ago and the stovies there, while still good, are not quite up to the previous standard, and the portion size seems to have decreased...

Possibly the worst stovies to date were at a wedding at a posh private school a few years ago. Lovely wedding, delightful school but the stovies seemed to have been made from leftover school dinners, with bits of sausage and corned beef. No-one said anything of course, least of all the Band, but we made a mental note of this low point.

Some of the best ceilidh food can be at birthday celebrations, where there is often a buffet, sometimes quite sumptuous. The worst can be where the arrangements have been ‘informal’, we didn’t send our usual booking confirmation, so no-one thinks to provide a wee bite for the band. If we’re lucky there might be a nearby chippie we can get out to in the interval...

We nearly always play at a village Ceilidh at Hogmanay. There, almost everyone brings a right royal supper with them and the Band gets invited to join in, which we are of course very happy to do. I can’t help thinking we are missing a trick though, because each Hogmanay the Band go out to supper ourselves before the gig. So we have generally eaten so well that the ceilidh offers of food are sadly wasted...

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“Obscured by Clouds” We are so lucky living in Aberdeenshire with an abundance of natural beauty, wildlife, and peace and tranquillity. Add to that our night skies clear of light pollution, quiet roads and lovely neighbours, what more could we ask for? As a hillwalker I focus on the myriad of hills and mountains right on our doorstep - for example, from the well known Queen’s View overlooking the Howe of Cromar is a panoramic vista of iconic hills and mountains from Clachnaben and Mount Keen around to Lochnagar, Morven, Pressendye and Craiglich.

Some hillwalkers are driven by the various lists of hills that exist, Munros being the most well known, but the hills mentioned above also include a Corbett, a Graham and a Marilyn - do you know which is which? Other hillwalkers are enthused by the natural beauty of the hills they climb, the exercise, the companionship and the challenge. Many also savour the view from the summit but this is often “obscured by clouds” but for me this does not negate the other attractions of each climb.

My true love and I went up The Buck of Cabrach on Valentine’s Day this year and the photo shows Tap o’ Noth from part way up. This is normally a muddy walk at the start but is highly recommended under winter conditions when you can just skate over the bogs! On the way up to the summit, after climbing over the first rocks, there is a large slab with its face aimed at the trig point. On this are three interlocking carved fish in Pictish style.

Go for Gold! Expeditions Ltd There is also often a small visitor book Fabulous DofE eperiences in Scotland hidden in one of the walls nearby. It was a beautiful day with fresh snow, light winds Bronze, Silver and Gold expeditions. and sunny periods and in just over an Gold residentials. hour we were on top, and guess what? Yes, obscured by clouds!

Simon Sawers is an avid hillwalker having completed all the Munros and is a qualified Mountain Leader. He runs Go for Gold!

Expeditions ,providing Duke of Edinburgh expeditions to young people.

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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 Banchory Bowling Club Dee Street Visitors Welcome Tennis and Putting also available Banchory Christian Fellowship Church Friday Club.

For all children Primary 1 to 7. Every Friday during the school term, 4.15pm to 6pm. Snack, Bible Stories, Games and Crafts. All welcome. No charge.

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 Cardiac Rehab Exercise Classes Banchory Sports Centre, Raemoir Road Mon 11.30 – 12.30pm Fri 11 – 12pm Telephone: 01888 569160 E-mail info@gcra.org.uk Banchory Community Badminton Club All abilities and ages welcome, Friday, 9.30-11.00am, 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 Hatha Yoga General level, Banchory Guide Hut, Tuesdays 11.30am - 1pm . Dalvenie Gardens Resource Centre , Wed 7-9pm Suitable for beginners and experienced. Contact Lisa Taylor yogalisa@hotmail.co.uk 077915 89503 Banchory Lions Club Meet on the first Monday of each Month at 7.30pm in the Guide Lodge Banchory. Guests welcome. The Banchory Lions Monthly Book Sale is held on the first Saturday of each Month in Banchory Town Hall from 10.0am till 12.0 noon. Info contact Mrs Pat Green on 01330 823795 or patgreen1@msn.com web site http://www.lions105ne.org 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.

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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 Running Club A road running club for all ages and abilities. www.banchoryrunningclub.com 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 Banchory Scottish Country Dancing Takes place at the Town Hall Banchory on Wednesdays 7.30-9.30 Everyone welcome. Have fun dancing, meet new people, enjoy the music.

Contact Clare 01330 822333 or Cathy 01330 824180 Banchory Singers are a mixed voice Community Choir. Meet at the West Church on Banchory High Street, 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 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.

Banchory - Woodside 2’s Group Tues & Thurs sessions 09.45 -11.30 am For children of 22 mths to 3 yrs Burnett Park Pavillion Banchory Email: woodside2sandplaygroup@gmail.com 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

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Garden View

Lovely Lilies (and a spot of hard-pruning) The first day of spring this year is officially March 20th . Trees are blossoming and daffodils are in bloom. The garden has woken up from its winter sleep and is full of promise.

But promise is not enough. A beautiful garden does not happen by chance. So what are the top jobs for March gardeners?

Pruning features large! Hard-prune those late flowering shrubs like Buddleia, Leycesteria and Lavateria, but only if the risk of heavy frost is past.

Spring-flowering plants such as Forsythia and Winter Honeysuckle should be pruned immediately the flowers fade.

If you haven’t already pruned your bush roses, now is the time. Leave about an inch of last year’s growth to encourage bushiness and lots of flowers. Shrub roses don’t need such radical treatment but would benefit from losing a third of their old, thick, woody stems.

Lift congested clumps of snowdrops while they still have leaves showing.

Finally, stay on top of the weeds. If you leave them, weeding quickly becomes an insurmountable chore.

27 There are loads of varieties in the garden centres right now. Three bulbs fit nicely into an 8inch / 20cm pot and five fit into a ten inch / 25cm pot. I’ve found terracotta pots best because they provide enough weight to prevent these tall plants tipping over.

Lilies need an open planting mixture which drains well so I use a mixture of potting compost plus a soil-less multi-purpose compost. The bulb tips should be a couple of inches below the compost.

Keep in a sheltered spot and water when the surface of the compost looks dry. Once the buds have formed, feed weekly with dilute tomato food until late summer. When the blooms fade, cut the stems down and place in a sheltered spot.

Each spring, scrape away a couple of inches of compost and add fresh mixture, then repeat the instructions above. Treated like this your lilies will reward you for three or four years before they need re-potting.

There are a plethora of colours and scents available, so there is a lily for everyone. Try them. I guarantee you’ll be as in love with lilies as I am.

By Rachel Leverton

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clubs and classes...

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 Community Transport Two community minibuses for hire by community groups and non-profit groups. Both 17 seats and wheelchair adaptable. Charges are £1.00 per mile (as at July 2012), with a minimum invoice of £20.00.

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 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 - Upstage Productions Now rehearsing and performing in Aboyne: upstageproductions2013@gmail.com 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 Tuesday-Friday mornings, 9.15am-11.15am Crossroads Nursery, Slug Road, Banchory drumoakanddurrisplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk 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

l people - local busine loca ss

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 Toddlers’ Praise for 0-5s and their parents/carers every Wednesday during term-time @ 9.4511.00am in The Hub, Banchory West Church - songs, bible stories, play and snack! Contact 01330 822006 or office@banchorywestchurch.com Relaxation Group in Banchory - Tuesday 10 until 11 and Friday 1 until 2 Contact Alison 07629 741 688 for details or alison_gamblin @ yahoo.com 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

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Organise Your Life Some people seem to be born more organised than the rest of us, but we can all develop habits that will make for a more organised and productive life. Here are five to consider.

Write Things Down Don’t try to remember everything. From shopping lists or ideas for home decor, to important family or business dates, or goals you’d like to achieve - write them down!

Do It Now The longer you wait to do something, the more

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Get Rid of Clutter Schedule regular clear outs to go through the items in your inbox, cupboards or drawers. Only keep things you really need and use, which will clear the way for greater creativity and productivity.

Delegate Responsibilities Whether at home or work, delegate as much as you can. Organised people know how to share the load. No person can do everything, but everyone can do something. This is a great way to help others grow and develop too.

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clubs and classes...

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 Script to Screen & Stage Drama & Film classes for children of 7-12 years of age. Banchory Classes held in Banchory Guide Hut 4pm -6pm & 6.15pm - 8.15pm Tel: 07989 484 315 email: s.2.s.and.stage@gmail.com www.script2screenandstage.co.uk Soft furnishing class in the Inchmarlo Hall Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning. 10 people in each class and they can make anything from a cushion - chairs. Classes run in school term approximately 10 weeks. Contact Moira : 01330 822984 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.

Classes outwith the area...

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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: 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) Various venues around Aberdeen www.aberdeenrscds.co.uk or call 01224 636 128.

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, Abdn, Tel : 01224 586928 Drop in Classes - Wed & Fri 10-12noon Classes run throughout the year. Cost £50 per year. Tutor session once a month additional cost £6. Suitable for all abilities, tel Jacqueline 07597 126739 New Classes - Oil Painting & Life Drawing www. northernartsclub.co.uk Sat Life Drawing Class 10am-1pm Tutor Ian Smart contact 01224 484040 Bridge Tuition Beginner & Intermediate - Thurs evening - Margaret 01224 868230

please do mention the deeside gazette when responding to adverts

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aberdeen area tree services landscaping garden design, fencing: supply, install, repair decking + construction removed, cut, pruned or replace demolition & removal of sheds/garages | pest control - wasps, rabbits, pigeons + roe deer | all services available for commercial + domestic

call george williams for excellent service and rates in aberdeen area :

m-07803 697 580 | t-01224 312611 |184 broomhill road, aberdeen (est 1988)

Crerar Hotels Trust has donated £5,000 to Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB) Scotland. The support was celebrated during a special cheque presentation from team members at GoGlasgow Urban Hotel, on behalf of Crerar Hotels Trust to RNIB Scotland on February 25th, 2016.

RNIB Scotland support children and adults with sight loss to live full and independent lives where possible. Giving educational support, employment advice and support, emotional support and counselling, leisure and training opportunities and audio and giant print books and magazines.

“Lion Club Book Sale"

first Saturday of every month in Banchory Town Hall 10.00 - 12 noon

VANS 2 U @ DRUMOAK GARAGE VAN & TIPPER HIRE GARAGE NOW OPEN FOR CAR & VAN REPAIRS & SERVICING

Clare Young accepts the cheque from Alistair Naismith, of GoGlasgow Urban Hotel.

Mark Crawford: 07738 857412/01330 811012

www.gazettemagazines.com 01224 949085 email : deeside@gazettemagazines.com

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get yourself noticed in 2016 advertise monthly with gazette magazines, we’ve been doing it since 2005 so we know what we are about!

Tel: 01224 949085 Text : 07813 964 875 Email: mail@gazettemagazines.com

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