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Issue 69

September 2012 West End Edition Free Magazine

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NEOS Travel : Morrocco Motoring : Mercedes E63 AMG

West End gazette

A note from Sue...

delivered to : 11800 West End Homes 200 City Businesses

What a summer I had. It was very relaxing, very busy, not so productive as I would have liked but all in all - it was good.

deadlines :

It basically kicked off when I went down to Murrayfield to see Madonna. It was a birthday treat with my best friend. A weekend away - no kids - yippee! Well the weekend away was great, but you might have read the reports that the concert wasn’t quite so good! But we’ll chalk it up to an experience, and won’t go to Murrayfield to see anybody else!

21 September for the October magazine

publisher/owner : Sue Simpson

All enquiries : tel : 01224 - 318561 mob : 07813 964 875

email : gazette@fsmail.net

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thru the door at :

Airyhall, Ashley, Bieldside, Braeside, Broomhill, Countesswells, Craigiebuckler, Cults , Holburn, Kepplestone Houses, Mannofield, Morningside, Queens Cross, Rubislaw, Seafield, Viewfield, Woodland at Pitfodels, Woodend 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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Then of course we had Olympic fever. How exciting was it? You forget how drawn in you are to watching the events. And of course you couldn’t have anticipated how patriotic and proud you would feel to have an amazing Team GB and all the wonderful medals they won and definitely not disappointed with the ones that didn’t quite make it. And now of course as I go to print we are preparing for another 17 days of the Paralympics. If you have been inspired to take up a new sport, learn a new language, try a new hobby then there is plenty to pick from throughout the magazine. Glancing to the right what about giving Scottish Country Dancing a go! More to pick from on page 9 and of course our growing list of clubs and classes for you to enjoy.

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For those that enjoy craft and art then of course September is the kick-off of NEOS. What an amazing opportunity to go and visit the artist in situ. Experience sculpture with a twist at Easter Anguston Farm, or head to the brand new March Hare Craft and Vintage Market at Boys Brigade HQ in Crimon Place. There is a new slimming class starting at Cults on a Tuesday and a Wednesday if you are hoping to make a change to your lifestyle. Or want to have a full Body MOT then take a look at Biomedclinic at Banchory.

March Hare Craft & Vintage Market

Boys Brigade HQ, Crimon Place Aberdeen AB10 1RX

11am-4pm Free Entry

Portraiture has a nice little competition for you to win a photograph sitting. There are also TEN runner up prizes! All entries are to be sent direct to them and not to the gazette so why not try and win a sitting for the family in time for the perfect Christmas gift.

29 September (Launch) 27 Oct 24 Nov 15 Dec

Do you have any “money-saving” tips that you would like to share with other readers? I personally would love to hear from you as I think we all need to learn how to be a little bit more thrifty and clever with our money. So come on - don’t be shy - and share that tip! They’ll all get printed - promise!

marchharemarket@gmail.com

More info

Facebook.com/March Hare Market

The October issue copy deadline for adverts, event listing and articles is Friday, 21 September 2012. In the meantime go grab that cuppa and read on... Until the next time

RSCDS Aberdeen Want to get Fit in a Fun, Sociable Atmosphere? Come and try Scottish Country Dancing!

Ad-hoc contributions from : James Baggott; Pippa Greenwood; Jane Robinson and Amanda Wise Advertising Sales : Sue Simpson : 01224 - 318561

Distribution - thanks to : Anne; Mark; Sue; Ashley; Carol; Caroline; Gregor; Jodi; Cameron; Kate; Sarah; Fraser; Laura; Freya; David; Maureen & Raymond; Bessie; Vanessa; Lauren; Sophie; Sharon; Mary; Rebecca; Benjamin; Adam; Glenn; Kate; Alix and Andrew

We are holding Taster/Recruitment Sessions on the following dates – come along and experiment! Wednesday 5th Sept Curl Aberdeen Eday Road AB15 6LN 7:30 – 9:30 Tuesday 11th Sept Garthdee Church Hall Ramsay Gardens AB10 7AE 7:30 – 9:30 Thursday 13th Sept Holburn West Church Hall 9 Ashley Park Drive AB10 6RY 2:00 – 3:30 For further information please contact : 01224 636128 RSCDS Aberdeen Branch is a recognised charity: SC024738

www.aberdeenrscds.co.uk

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ou may have heard that 2012 is the Year of Creative Scotland but did you realise that Aberdeen’s artistic streak is showcased annually? One precious week each year, characteristic yellow North East Open Studios (NEOS) signs illuminate the landscape from the Moray Coast down to Montrose and inland to Braemar, marking open studio venues scattered across the north-east. NEOS was established in 2003 by Kemnay artist Susie Hunt to provide informal networking for the artistic community. Each September since, artists, makers and galleries have opened their doors and talents to the public. In 2009, one very special Aberdeenshire location began operating as a NEOS gallery, exhibiting work from inspiring individuals who have additional support needs, creative connoisseurs and nervy newbies. This unique link between creativity and community was developed by north-east social care charity VSA’s Easter Anguston Farm, a tourist hotspot that trains adults with additional support needs. The Peterculter-based attraction, a 70acre working farm and 20-acres of woodland, helps its trainees get up to speed on social skills and horticulture. Quirky gallery treasures past and present have included suspended light sculptures, a very special kangaroo, glow-in-the-dark paintings, life-size sheep and a lifesized cow made from milk cartons, a zig zag ‘raptor stand,’ a cat’s choir, a large mosaicked frog, a mad hatter’s tea party and some eye-catching multi-coloured knitted woollen sheep, tractors and snakes. The wooly inventions, which are always a hit, come courtesy of The Knit Wits, a group founded by local lady Rosy Wood. Rosy, who describes herself as an “enthusiastic amateur that likes crafting and creating,” has headed up eccentric efforts ranging from a wooly jumper for an old tractor to a twenty metre knitted snake that later adorned the Skye Bridge for the Year of the Homecoming. The extraordinary reptile took the train to Skye wrapped in a duvet cover, much to fellow passengers’ amusement. Last year, they yarned twelve life-sized sheep and lambs, evolving into characters such as Lady BaBa, Ewenice and Rameses and raising more than £300 for VSA. Local artist Alex Kay has been instrumental in Easter Anguston’s NEOS gallery: “From the start we looked for land art, sculpture and ceramics that had a strong www.thegranitecitygazette.co.uk t : 01224 - 318561

environmental ethos. Like NEOS, our gallery has gone from strength to strength each year. Artists without a studio can showcase their work but VSA service users and staff get a chance to test their creative waters too.

Aberdeen and the shire have a clear creative spark. There is no doubt that, as always, this yearâ€™s NEOS catalogue will be bursting at the seams with artistic gems, right on your doorstep.

Iâ€™ve opened my own studio for NEOS but Easter Anguston always has a special place in my heart. It really stretches my creativity outdoors. But making art with the farm trainees is what drives me to be there every September. For those heavily involved in the farming side, itâ€™s a whole new skill set. There are some real stars there. Two years ago one trainee, obsessed with all things Australian, made Danny, a kanga with a baby roo, out of wire and plaster. At the gallery opening, singer and long-time VSA supporter, Fiona Kennedy bought the sculpture. She and her family hosted a wonderful pre-Christmas â€˜unveilingâ€™ celebration for the staff and trainees, something still talked about at the farm.â€?

NEOS 2012 will take place between Saturday 15 September and Sunday 23 September. The NEOS gallery at Easter Anguston Farm, Peterculter, will be open for the duration, between 10am and 4pm daily. For more information about NEOS visit www. northeastopenstudios.co.uk For more information about VSA visit www. vsa.org.uk For more information about SSW visit www. ssw.org.uk For more information about the NEOS gallery at Easter Anguston Farm contact Fiona Davidson, Easter Anguston Farm, 01224 733627.

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Issue 11 of North-East North-East Scotland's Scotlandâ€™s magazine ofmagazine literature of literature andarts visual and the visual is arts its isdelighted on sale to at continue local vendors with NEOS, orpartnership via the gazette! both organisations with a Contact Sue to get your mutual passion to foster copy or pop intoof...our the artistic talents Junction Art &ofGifts unique corner Scotland - and to shareStores this secret Hammerton with the wider world! Books and Beans Art Gallery and in Issue 11 on sale at some September NEOS studiosvia andNEOS outlets outlets. Cost ÂŁ6.00 around the North East. 3/25/2012 12:02:48 PM

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www.pushingouttheboat.co.uk ~ follow us on facebook ~ Outside Covers POTB 11 - 2012.indd 1

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Clog Dancing – Alive and Clattering in Aberdeen ‘Raggie Morrisons’ was formed in1994 taking our name from a famous draper’s shop which used to stand on George Street in Aberdeen. We are a ladies’ Clog Morris team who dance traditional clog dances. Many of these dances have their origins in the late 18th century and were choreographed by workers on the barges, in the mills and factories of the new industrial towns. Dances were named after their town of origin and usually danced during local festivals and processions. ‘Raggies’ have continued this tradition by naming our latest dance ‘Bieldside’, which is where we hold our weekly practices. We also dance out during the summer at local events as well as further afield, including a Mayday tour along Deeside. We are lucky to have our own musicians and clog dancing is a really enjoyable way to keep fit, make friends and get out and about. Would you like to try it out for yourself? Come and learn something new. Experienced dancers and complete beginners all welcome. ‘Raggie Morrisons’ are running a clog dance workshop: When Sunday 16th September 2012 Time 2-4pm Place RGU Sport at Garthdee Age Over 16 Experience None required For further details and booking phone or text Jane on 07760 168 256 quoting ‘Raggies’ or visit our website www.raggiemorrisons.org. uk Numbers are limited so book early to avoid disappointment!

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Let’s talk wine...

H is for Hungary

This month, I am continuing my quest to get you off the beaten wine track. Hungary is probably best known for it’s glorious sweet wines produced in the north east of the country in the region of Tokay. Using local grapes Furmint and Harslevelu, the increasing levels of sweetness from 3-6 are measured in ‘puttonyos’ At the sweetest end of the scale, the rich dried fruit characters are great with proper puddings such as sticky toffee and marmalade. Look out for zesty, bone dry Furmint too. Close to the city of Budapest is the region of Etyek-Buda, white wines dominate with grapes such as the muscat and tropical like Irsai Oliver. To the south of the country are the rolling hills of the of Szekzsard, home to quality red wines including the familiar Cabernet and Merlot as well as the fresh, red berry inspired Kadarka and the spicy, fruits of the forest Kekfrankos. To the south west of Szekszard, Villany also produces very good reds. Elegance shines through. Wines to try. Oremus Dry Furmint Wine Raks Aberdeen £15.95 Royal Tokay 5 Puttonyos £26.95 Deeside drinks Emporium and Dunnottar Wines stock a range of wines from the Tokay region Look out for producers such as Bock, Takler, Malatinszky all of which are available from Hungarian specialist www. mephistowines.co.uk WINE COURSES I will be running the following wine courses in Aberdeen this autumn :

Carol is an Aberdeen based member of the Association of Wine Educators and the Circle of Wine Writers.

WES 8 week Introductory Evening course begins Wednesday 12th September WES 1 day Grape to Glass Workshop Saturday 6th October WES 1 Day Wines of France Workshop Saturday 3rd November I am also planning Wine and Spirit Education Trust Courses Levels 1 and 2

Ask for the wine at : Deeside Drinks Emporium, 22 Dee Street, Banchory 01330 822 650

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For information and links, please visit www.wineuncorkededucation.co.uk or call me on 01224 312076

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1 to 1 Pi To Fitness book p 1 to9:4 1Y Laura Walker 1 to 1 Fit To book please contact: laura@laurawa To book please Laura Walker: 0777contact: 302 1851 To book pl laura@laurawalkerlimited.co.uk Mannofield Churc Laura Walker: 0777 302 1851 www.laurawa www.laurawalkerlimited.co.uk 

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Fitness Yoga—T 9:45—10:45a

To book please conta Laura Walker: 0777 302

Walking for a healthier lifestyle ... There are guidelines on physical activity which, it is recommended, that all adults undertake to gain health benefits from being active. These guidelines are: 150 minutes of cardiovascular activity in a week; this equates to 30 minutes of activity on 5 days of the week AND To have two sessions of strength training during a week that targets the major muscle groups of the body: legs, hips, back, abdomen, shoulders, chest and arms. According to the Department of Health website, 1 in 3 people believe they are doing enough activity to benefit their health, but, only 1 in 5 people are actually achieving this. Walking each day for half an hour can achieve the cardiovascular target. This level of activity helps to reduce the risk of falling, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and stroke, some forms of cancer, depression and even arthritis. Walking is what is known as ‘bone loading’. It uses major muscles in the legs to add bone density in the leg and hip bones to prevent osteoarthritis, osteoporosis. The more stress we place on the bones, the greater bone density becomes. Walking also helps to strengthen the heart. There are three levels of walking for health benefits which can all be utilised on a single session. Level 1 This kind of walking can be completed in order to warm the body. Be in good posture at all times, stand tall, shoulders back, tummy pulled in and hips forward. Strike heel to toe when walking and look ahead to encourage the good posture. Arms swing at the sides and it is a natural length of stride at an easy pace. Walking comfortably enough to carry a conversation and not feel any exertion.

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Level 2 The stride is now lengthening, and the elbows bend, aiming the elbow behind as the stride takes place. There is more effort being put into the walking and the heart rate is starting to elevate. A conversation is possible throughout the walk. This pace is good along the flat, when the body is warm and extra pace is comfortable to achieve. Level 3 Keeping the elbow bent and aiming it behind, shorten the stride but quicken the pace. This will encourage the heart rate higher; however a conversation is still possible. This pace can be utilised on the flat to encourage greater exertion. Each level is a progression from the other. It is recommended that Level 1 is completed at the end of the session in order to cool down. Beginning an exercise programme is difficult to know what is enough and too much. Though all these level may be undertaken in the first session, it may also be possible to work up to level 3 over a period of 4-6 sessions. The best way to calculate this is through Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE). This means that you need to know how hard your body is working and exercise accordingly. Given a scale of 1-10: 10 – Passed Out 9 - Dizzy 8 – Heavy breathing – Can’t talk 7 –Heavy breathing – Can talk 6 – Starting to get breathless 5 – Moving with deeper breathing 4 – Moving with effort 3 – Standing and moving 2 - Standing 1 - Seated After the warm up – Level 1, RPE will be at or around 3 possibly 4 During the exercise when Level 2 is being performed, RPE will be around 4-6

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At Level 3 walking the maximum RPE 7, this is where fitness and health benefits are to be found and is a good place to be when training. RPE 8 is too much and will bring little fitness or health benefits. When it comes to upper body strength and using all the major muscles of the body in strength training little is known what to do or even how to achieve this correctly. A fitness class, such as yoga, Pilates or an aerobic style class, will all give strength training. A home exercise DVD may also help with resistance work. Some will utilise body weight to develop strength others will use resistance equipment such as hand weights, fitness resistance bands or a barbell and weights. All are good effective forms of resistance training. Exercising will help to slow the aging process down and give us the confidence to live life to the full for as long as we can. Resistance training brings muscle strength and a better look to the body. It develops bone density and utilises blood glucose which helps people with diabetes to manage their condition. As resistance training needs controlled breathing it helps with pulmonary conditions like asthma and COPD. As muscles are stronger there is less stress on joints relieving osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Also building strength in the back and stomach helps with balance and walking.

Laura Walker’s

Fitness for Health Programme

Pilates £5 a class Mon - 10-1055 Mannofield Church Fri - 10-1055 Inchgarth CC Please bring a mat Zumba £4 a class Mon - 11-1145 Mannofield Church Exercise £3 a class Fitness for Health Benefits Thurs - 10-1100 WRI Hall Cults New Classes fm 27.08.2012

Gym : Kincorth Sport Centre Wed - 11.30-12.30 Fitness Yoga : WRI Hall Cults Thurs - 11-1200

Whatever you choose to do, enjoy it; exercise should be fun and it will always bring a smile to your face. Start with an easy programme and progress at your own pace. Find an exercise programme that works for you and enjoy it. Laura Walker Promoting a healthy lifestyle to those with long term health conditions Laura brings enthusiasm and knowledge together to bring fitness as a tool for health. A fitness professional for 15 years Laura works in the community, with the NHS and various social settings and has her own home exercise DVD. www.laurawalkerlimited.co.uk Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

Photography

Camera Slide Close Up Telephoto Colour Tint Contrast Tone Darkroom Tripod Developer Enlarger Filter Flash Frame Negative Overexposure Panorama Positive Print Processing Shutter Find the words associated with photography in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase

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: Home & Domestic Management Services

Errand Services

Housekeeping Services, Cleaning including fridges and ovens, Laundry & Ironing; Fridge clear outs; Kitchen organisation; Grocery Shopping and Meal preparation; Closet and Attic Arrangement; Decluttering; Holiday suitcase packing and unpacking; Baby sitting, Pet and House sitting, Gardening services etc

Door to door transportation to your hospital, GP and other appointments; Escort service to GP/hospital appointments/ shopping trips for elderly relatives; Collection and dropping of children at school and extracurricular activities; Prescription collection; Receiving home deliveries; Key holding service to admit and supervise workmen; Dropping off/ picking up post and dry-cleaning; Gift buying

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Hair Removal

Jenny at Kumiko would like to introduce you to the Australian Bodycare HY-Wax system.. Kumiko are very aware of hygiene and have been using this innovative and hygienic waxing system ‘HY-Wax’ for some time. The beauty of it is it ensures the wax that touches your skin has not been contaminated by anyone else. Ladies, to ensure the best results, the hair to be waxed needs to be a minimum of 1/4 cm in length. The wax will stick to the hair and it will be removed cleanly from the follicle leaving the area silky and smooth. Jenny also specialises in Electrolysis hair removal. This will permanently remove the hair. A course of treatments will give you a great end result. Below Jenny has two offers to tempt you to use this service during September.

September Offer £10 Off your first electrolysis treatment (hair removal only) (please bring advert for discount)

valid till 30 Sept 2012

10% off Australian Bodycare Teatree waxing

For more information/to book an appointment please contact Jenny at

89 Gray Street, Aberdeen AB10 6JD t : 01224 594777 e: jenny@kumikobeauty.co.uk www.kumikobeauty.co.uk Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

Photo : Courtesy of Estee Lauder

Naturally Beautiful Home vs. High Street By Helen Taylor 14

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Lamb and Aubergine Curry This quick curry is so easy to make and much cheaper than a take away. Weâ€™ve used lean lamb steaks but you could replace the lamb with pork fillet, chicken or turkey. Serves 4 Ready in 50 minutes

3 tbsp sunflower oil 650g lean lamb steaks, cut into chunks 1 onion, peeled and chopped 1 large aubergine, cut into cubes 2tbsp Rogan Josh curry paste 400g sieved tomatoes Salt and freshly ground black pepper Fresh coriander leaves, to garnish Chapattis, sliced tomatoes, cucumber and onion, to serve

1 2 3 3

Heat 1tbsp of the oil in a large deep frying pan. Add the lamb chunks and fry over a high heat until browned all over. Remove the lamb from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside. Add the rest of the oil to the pan and fry the onion and aubergine for 7-8 minutes, stirring all the time until golden. Stir in the curry paste and cook for 1 minute then pour in the sieved tomatoes and bring to the boil. Return to the lamb to the pan and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook gently for 25-30 minutes until the lamb is tender. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water if needed. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve the curry in warmed bowls garnished with coriander and with chapattis, sliced tomatoes, cucumber and onions.

TIP

Youâ€™ll find jars of curry pastes in most supermarkets and they certainly take all the hassle out of making an authentic tasting curry at home. Rogan josh is a medium-hot paste but for a really mild flavour use a korma paste or go for a vindaloo paste if you prefer a curry with a little more heat.

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The March Hare Market is a craft & vintage event; it will be the first regular monthly Market that specialises in handmade crafts and vintage wares to come to Aberdeen City Center. Launching on Saturday 29th September, with approximately 24 stalls ranging from hand crafted products, baked goods, vintage home wares, and vintage clothes. The Market is a free entry event and aimed at the general public, with a quality selection of stalls everyone can find something that will tickle their taste buds, make them stand out from the crowd, and get everyone asking where you got that from. My aim is to make the March Hare Market, the largest regular craft and vintage market in Scotland, the venue has scope to build upon the current 22-24 stalls. I am also very keen to introduce local artists and musicians to the talent pool of the market. The allocation of stalls for the September launch is full, and we are still actively seeking to fill a handful for Oct, Nov, and Dec. The Market is all set for its September 29th Launch, with a popular Facebook & Twitter presence promoting the Market, we also have a local film maker and photographer attending to capture the dayâ€™s events, and really make the event a success. http://www.facebook.com/ MarchHareCraftMarket https://twitter.com/marchharemarket t : 01224 - 318561

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BBQ PACKS & ORDERS TAKEN DAILY Award Winning Butcher Shop World Cheese Counter, Fresh Fish & Seafood Butchery Demonstrations for Schools, Public & Companies Ask our staff anything about buying & cooking your meats Wedding Cheese Cakes, BBQ Events, Demo & Dine at Home

35-37 Chattan Place, Aberdeen, AB10 6RB, just off Union Grove. Tel â€“ 01224 587553 www.andrewgordonbutchery.com Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

The Better Life The Better Life is the tales and observations of a London townie, who downshifted to Cornwall. A bit like the Good Life, but with the internet. It all started one morning in the kitchen, when Anne asked, “How would you feel about keeping chickens?” I didn’t answer right away. In the time we’ve been together I’ve learned the language of subtext. I finished my breakfast and replied, “When are we picking them up?” I wasn’t entirely averse to the idea of a little selfsufficiency. Who doesn’t have fond memories of The Good Life - and especially Felicity Kendal? Plus it’d be a chance to shed my townie upbringing and dispel that grim story my dad used to tell - the one about dispatching a chicken for the first and only time, where the head came off in in his hands and the headless chicken ran up the path. Stage one in Operation Chickadee was researching coops and chicken feed and, well, chickens really. There’s a lot to learn about chicken behaviour, the different breeds and their foibles. Having taken advice, we decided on hybrids, as

they’re more reliable for eggs and point-of-lay birds for immediate production. We went upmarket with the coop, choosing an easy care metal and plastic affair from Omlet (yes, really!). Now all we needed to do was find the right chickens - and Anne was already on the case. The day after the chicken coop and run were installed in the front garden, we entered the mysterious world of farm supplies. Layers

pellets, grit (for strong shells), straw and worming treatment - check. However, my suggestion that we buy jodhpurs as well fell on stony ground. Having located a poultry supplier, we headed out with an empty cat

by Derek Thompson box and a pile of newspaper. The farmer led us to a densely populated barn and said, “Take your pick.” I don’t know exactly how Anne chose the chickens which the farmer insisted were hens - but we went home with Sweet Pea (a Plymouth Rock / Maran) and Pepperami (a Plymouth Rock / Rhode Island). The chickens were confined to barracks for a few days, to allow them to settle in and retrain the cat. Once they emerged, we noted the following:

1. At least an egg a day! 2. A huge reduction in the snail population. 3. Sweet Pea failed to live up to her name, went broody and took it out on the cat (luckily it’s a very fast cat). 4. The garden quickly came to resemble The Somme. Something had to be done because, unlike me, Anne is a passionate gardener. Plus, the round up in the evenings was time consuming. We fenced off one half of the garden and, after a few ‘great

escapes’, augmented the fencing with extra bamboo canes in leaf, whereupon the chickens looked as if they were starring in their own episode of Tenko.

Our neighbours relish the availability of fresh, local eggs and they enjoy the egg-laying serenade every morning. And the poultry poop makes great compost.

Sweet Pea and Pepperami were both restful to watch and very entertaining. They performed chicken yoga wing stretching exercises. They played tug-of-war with snails and ‘I’ll have what she’s having’ tussles over worms, morning porridge and, on one unfortunate occasion, a wood mouse.

No chickens were harmed in the making of this feature. My dad would be proud. Derek Thompson is a writer and humourist based in the West Country. His writing blog can be found at www. alongthewritelines.blogspot. com and he is also a regular at

www.strictlywriting.blogspot.com

Controversial low calorie diets can have long-term benefits An academic review has suggested that shortspell diets where individuals eat 800 calories or less per day can have long-term benefits. Researchers at Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, have reviewed over 30 studies which investigate the effects of controversial very-low-energy-diets (VLEDs) on obesity and associated disorders. The evidence suggests that VLEDs can help obese people achieve long-term weight loss and improvements in fertility, respiratory disorders and cardiovascular risk. The review, which was funded by LighterLife, was carried out by members of the Centre for Obesity Research and Epidemiology (CORE) which is part of RGU’s Institute for Health and Welfare Research. Their findings have been compiled in a report recently published in the British Journal of Nutrition. A VLED is a diet of less than 800 calories per day and is usually comprised of synthetic and food-based formula diets. Despite some concerns about the negative effects of such rapid weight loss, previous studies have confirmed the benefits of VLEDs in the short term for obese patients.

Significant weight loss (reported in 13 studies) Improved blood pressure (13 studies) Reduction in waist circumference (nine studies) Reduction in respiratory disorders such as sleep apnoea (two studies) and asthma (one study) Increase in fertility and sexual function (one study) The review also found little evidence to suggest any negative effects of VLEDs on bone health, liver or kidney function.

“In carrying out this review we have found that longterm benefits such as weight-loss and improvements in cardiovascular risk, respiratory disorders and fertility are achievable with the use of these short-burst, low calorie diets.

However, the RGU team found there is less evidence of the long-term effects of VLEDs. In carrying out their review, they sought to analyse studies which have looked into long-term effects, ultimately aiming to better inform best practice in the treatment of obese patients through the use of VLEDs.

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The long-term benefits identified in the studies included:

Dr Catherine Rolland, a member of the CORE research team, said: “This review represents a detailed investigation of an important area of controversy.

This has led institutions such as the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence to support the use of VLEDs for up to three months under supervised conditions.

The team began by identifying a body of 894 related studies. Of these, only 32 met the search criteria of investigating the long-term (at least 12 months) benefits of VLEDs.

“The success of VLEDs was particularly high amongst individuals who used conventional diets and exercised regularly as part of their everyday lives. As such, the long-term outcomes cannot clearly dissociate between the VLED and the means of weight maintenance used following the period of very low energy intake.” “However, the evidence does suggest they can have positive effects far beyond the short period of time they are used.”

Discussing the limitations of the study and lessons for the future, Dr Rolland continued: “As there was a high lack of uniformity between the studies, we have clearly identified a need for further standardised research into the use of VLEDs in treating both healthy and at-risk groups.”

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t’s the stuff of Daily Mail competitions. It’s the fantasy that drives the holiday cottage industry: when once a year we satisfy our desire for rural living by renting our own dream cottage. But what happens when – like newly retired couple Gary and Linda Speed from Basingstoke - you decide to live the dream? Gary and Linda wanted to buy a spacious, detached cottage in the West Country with off-street parking, original features and countryside views. Having around £300,000 in the bank, they were confident that they would find their perfect home. However, they were initially dismayed to find that while house prices may have slumped in recent years, the market for period properties in popular areas remains surprisingly buoyant. The couple eventually found a reasonablypriced cottage that ticked all the right boxes. Located in a quiet village outside a popular Dorset tourist town, the attractive stone-built, thatched property had no central heating and lacked a modern kitchen and bathroom, but it did have a large garden all the period features they wanted. “We knew that it needed updating,” says Linda. “But it was absolutely beautiful and we couldn’t understand why someone else hadn’t already snapped it up.” However, as the various surveys and building reports they had commissioned began to pile up, the true cost of the renovation was revealed.

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The stonework needed re-pointing, the electrical wiring had decayed and the damaged thatch would cost thousands to replace, so Gary and Linda reluctantly pulled out. They had incurred costs along the way – solicitors’ fees plus the cost of the surveys and reports – but they had avoided the nightmare of a ‘money pit’ purchase by taking professional advice early on. If Gary and Linda’s dreams didn’t match up to reality, they were not alone. In a recent survey t : 01224 - 318561

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Don’t let your dream cottage turn into a nightmare By Claudia Leaf by AA Home Emergency Response, 2,005 people were questioned about their ideal home. 28% of respondents fantasised about a owning a property in a rural location, with a large, open-plan kitchen/diner and living area featuring high on their ‘must-have’ list. 48% of the sample wanted sea views while slightly more than half prioritised views of mountains or open fields. As anyone familiar with the British countryside will know, rather than enjoying expansive views, many village dwellings face directly onto a busy road. A large kitchen/

diner is also a rare find – particularly if the cottage is Grade II listed and the local authority does not permit structural alterations. In fact the competition for properties that ‘have it all’ is so intense that in soughtafter areas you will need to spend £500,000 plus if you want a property with good internal space that enjoys excellent countryside or seaside views. Buyers on a more modest budget will inevitably have to compromise. After their experience in Dorset, Gary and Linda

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seriously considered giving up their dream of a West Country home, but during a weekend trip to Somerset a ‘For Sale’ sign caught their eye. Their final purchase was a small, terraced town house that faced directly onto the street - a far cry from the ‘roses round the door’ cottage with a large garden they had originally envisaged. As Linda explains: “We knew we had to compromise on our dream, but in the end it didn’t really feel like a compromise. It was different, but we loved the village and somehow the chemistry was right.”

Mercedes Benz E63 AMG James Baggott, editor of Car Dealer (CarDealerMagazine.co.uk) If you asked a bloke to build a car – the sort that drinks real ale, has a hairy chest, likes football (maybe rugby) and ‘birds’ – you could probably guess what you would end up with. It would have a big engine. Actually, scrap that. It would have a MASSIVE engine. It would need to be rear wheel drive. It would have lots of toys to impress his mates and confuse his wife/ bird/life partner. And it would need to look flash. Oh, and probably be German. Let us introduce you, then, to the car that Dave Down The Duck built - the Mercedes E63 AMG must have been built by someone with more testosterone than an end of school prom. Let’s talk numbers first. Under the bonnet you will find a 5.5 litre V8 with two turbos. It produces a frankly

ridiculous 557bhp and, with the AMG pack (£6,495) fitted to our test car, 800Nm of torque. This is about the same as a Harrier Jump Jet. Probably. It will hit 60mph in just four seconds and is limited (quite heavily) to 155 mph. Oh, and it has seven gears. Even the price tag is whopping – off the shelf it’s £74,695, but our test car with what appears to be every optional extra box ticked, weighed in at £91,245. And what does all that mean? It means this is one scary super saloon. Not only does it sound like a Spitfire at full chat, but it’s football hooligan lairy. At 70 mph on a wet road it has the grunt to spin up the rear wheels. In fact at any speed, on pretty much any road, it has the power to spin up the rear wheels. Which is scary and smile inducing in equal measures. On the road, traction control fully engaged, it flickers its warning lights on the exit of even supermarket car parks. On the track, with the safety nets disengaged it is weapons grade bonkers. But bloody brilliant.

Inside, the switchgear – and the fact there’s a Boeing-load of it – takes a while to get used to, but it’s incredibly comfortable. That’s probably something to do with the heated, cooling and massaging seats. The seats are so clever that they even inflate the side bolsters to hold you in place when you go around corners. And talking of clever, that’s one thing that gets up my nose a little about the Merc. It’s all a little bit too smart. No one wants their car to be cleverer than they are and at times the Merc certainly feels a bit too Skynet for my liking. However, as super saloons go, this Merc certainly has the right ingredients. It’s stupidly fast, sounds amazing and is long-haul comfortable. It’s just a little tougher to get to grips with than its biggest rival, the BMW M5, which is why we’d go for the Beemer instead.

Model: Mercedes E63 AMG Price: £91,245 (as tested) Engine: 5.5-litre, V8 Power: 557bhp, 800Nm Max speed: 155mph 0-60mph: 4.0s MPG (comb’d): 28.8 Emissions: 230g/km

Verdict: Bonkers fast, bonkers sound and bonkers price tag.

Aberdeen student recognised for Glasgow Commonwealth Games building design Aberdeen student recognised for Glasgow Commonwealth Games building design David Weir-McCall, who graduated from Robert Gordon University (RGU) has been recognised in a UK-wide design competition for his project exploring the legacy of buildings constructed for the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology graduate, originally from Fort William, entered ‘Designing for Adaptable Futures’ (DAF) during his final year of study at RGU’s Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment and received an honourable mention from the group’s international panel of judges. The competition, led by a research group based at Loughborough University which focuses on

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creating adaptable spaces and buildings from both a physical and social perspective, invited students from around the UK to illustrate how the life of a building unfolds through time and can accommodate change. David’s project ‘Designing for Sport’ looks at the legacy of the buildings constructed for the 2014 Commonwealth Games and proposes an energygenerating dome as a permanent public landmark that adapts to shifting climates and functions as a stadium, education centre or green space. The innovative proposal also put forth designs to create smaller spaces or stadiums for sports such as fencing and martial arts under a single roof, with the large domed structure allowing for the internal components to be rearranged and adapted.

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Minimal wind and other elements are allowed to enter the space around the base of the structure to create an open internal communal area protected from rain and direct sunlight. The designs also use prefabricated materials allowing for easy deconstruction to suit future projects. David continues: “I wanted to leave behind preconceived notions of large immobile structures constructed from glass and steel which often dominate the riverside and skylines of cities such as Glasgow. “I’m delighted that my proposal has been recognised by such a renowned group as the DAF panel. During my final year, I have been constantly encouraged and supported by my tutors to challenge traditional structures in order to make a building more adaptable to different events and activities.”

David graduated from the Scott Sutherland School on 13 July and now hopes to continue designing and developing innovative technology alongside architecture.

David comments: “As a designer it is important to consider how people can both use and view a building even after its original purpose has changed. In my proposal, I have reimagined a Commonwealth Games venue by giving it longevity and emphasising its relationship with those in the surrounding area.” “A local sense of identity is encouraged by facilitating community engagement and creating opportunities for local people to actively use the space. Future developments for the site after the Games could be as an educational centre, botanical garden or to host public events and local art.”

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In addition to submitting a design proposal, David created a film focussing on the layered roof structure – a grid shell dome. His external design attaches fibre optic rods to the ‘skin’ of the roof which oscillate with the wind to harvest kinetic energy to generate sufficient power for the buildings. Woodend Barn, Banchory AB31 5QA Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

Positive parenting Positive parenting helps your child to feel secure and loved David Cameron’s recent launch of vouchers for parenting classes has highlighted how difficult it can be to parent well. There can often be situations - such as your young child screaming in a heap on the supermarket floor - when you feel that you have no control over their behaviour, but giving in to their demands doesn’t seem to improve things. However, dealing positively with bad behaviour in a calm, consistent way will help your child as they test you and push the boundaries. Praising good behaviour You’re probably aware of how often you tell your child off, but are you aware of how often you praise them? Parental praise is a big motivator for young children - it makes them

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feel happy, loved and secure and will raise their self-esteem. Little things like telling them they brushed their teeth really well, or put away their toys without being asked, are all positive affirmations which make them realise you are noticing them. Keeping positive When your child is misbehaving it can sometimes feel easier to give in to their demands for peace and quiet rather than stick to your guns. But every time you change your mind, you are telling your child that if they are persistent enough they will eventually win. Stay calm and before you say ‘no’, give yourself a few seconds to think your way round the situation that is positive for both of you. For instance, if your child starts playing up in a shop, say that if they behave now, you will do something fun later, or give them a treat.

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If they carry on misbehaving, warn them of the consequence and if it continues, take calm action, for instance taking away a privilege. For small children, any consequence must happen within a couple of hours to be effective (for instance, missing a TV programme) as otherwise they won’t remember what it was related to. Be consistent: if they play up in the supermarket every time, make sure there is always a consequence. Tackling trigger points There are often certain points in the day which can cause problems - and if you are aware of these in advance, it will be much easier to deal with them. Going out: If you know your child needs time to adjust after a nap or likes to choose their own clothes before going to nursery, make sure you factor in enough time. If they are indecisive, give a choice of two things and ask which one they would prefer. Meal times: Again, make sure your child has plenty of time to eat a meal and is not rushed. If they’re given foods they don’t like, offer an incentive to at least try it - and praise them when they do. Use this time to bond by sitting and chatting about their day. Bedtimes: Bath and bedtime is a lovely part of the day, but can sometimes be fraught. Chat about your child’s day and praise their good behaviour. Star charts for going to bed without a fight work well - with a small treat every few days for doing well. Don’t leave it a whole week as this is too long for young children. The more positive interaction you have with your child, not only praising, but giving them firm boundaries for behaviour, really will help you to form a close, positive relationship. Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

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Wet rooms Katherine Sorrell

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They’re hip, they’re hot and they’re wet, wet, wet – and no, we’re not talking about an Eighties pop band, but the aspirational trend for bathrooms. Katherine Sorrell looks at what you need to know before installing a wet room or walk-in shower.

Just what is a wet room anyway? In a conventional wet room, the whole bathroom is, potentially, the shower area. There’s no step up into the shower cubicle – in fact, there’s no shower cubicle; instead, the room is tanked (treated to make it completely waterproof ) and given a floor drain and a decent-sized shower head. Add a conventional loo and basin, and bingo, you have a wet room. Why would I want one? Wet rooms done well are stylish, contemporary and seen as the last word in luxury, and some say they add value to a property – though it must be added that this seems to apply mainly to high-end, urban homes rather than your average suburban semi or country cottage. If you enjoy an indulgent shower then a wet room gives you an unparalleled sense of freedom and space (you can even design it so you have a view); and if your bathroom is on the small side then removing the bath will give you loads more room. Wet rooms should be easier to keep clean, too – no fiddling around the screen or tray, just a mop over as necessary, which is especially easy if you fit a wall-mounted basin and WC. Finally, wet rooms can be better for older people or anyone with impaired mobility, as there’s no step up into the shower to negotiate. What can go wrong? It’s not advisable to convert your only bathroom into a wet room – potential buyers tend to want at least one bath and, what’s more, you do need access to a dry loo and basin, especially if there’s more than one of you in the household. In a family bathroom a wet floor may create problems for small children. As with all home improvements, adding an inappropriately over-the-top wet room to an otherwise ordinary house is not a good idea. Without good ventilation a wet room can all too quickly become musty and mouldy. And, last but by no means least, there’s every wet room owner’s nightmare – a failure in the tanking resulting in leaks and damp patches.

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Can I have a wet-room without the potential problems? Absolutely. You can create a walk-in shower, which is larger than usual, at floor level for ease of access, and just as streamlined and chic. The advantage is that it has its own below-floor drainage area and is enclosed by a good-looking glass panel: thus the water is contained in one area (so no soaked loo roll), and the room won’t need such extensive preparation with regard to drainage and tanking. The risk of leaks is reduced – though there are no guarantees. The disadvantage is that a walk-in will take up more space than a standard shower cubicle. What are the technicalities? Wet rooms are often recommended for ground floors and basements, where the sub-floor is more likely to be solid. In a first-floor installation it’s more tricky. You may need to strengthen joists in order to bear the load of heavy stone tiles; you’ll certainly need to ensure that the floor is stable, as wooden joists that flex could create cracks in tiles or waterproofing. In all cases you need to create a suitable drainage slope, either with a ‘former’ and suitable levelling compound, or a pre-formed tray set into the floor. To accommodate waste fittings, you may need to raise the entire floor level of the room, which could mean having to re-size the doorway.

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Really good tanking is vital. It may be in the form of impermeable sheeting or a trowelled-on sealant, and should be applied to the entire floor of the wet room or walk-in, the walls that are likely to become wet, and extend beyond by 50cm each side. Another option for walls is to use prefabricated water-resistant boarding. In both cases it is necessary to seal vulnerable areas (corner joints and pipework penetrations) using a special sealing strip. Then thereâ€™s your water supply. If you have low water pressure or a small tank, for example, you may need to fit a bigger tank or add a pump. Finally, ventilation. Fit a really good extractor fan, following building regulations religiously (ask advice from your local planning authority), and avoid condensation by also having some form of heating in the room, whether underfloor or radiators.

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First Impressions Melissa did not oversleep. Instead she woke, just before the alarm, from a dream in which she had arrived at her first day at work still wearing her pyjamas. The morning welcomed her with a steady patter of rain. Once dressed in the clothes she carefully ironed two days ago, she opened the fridge door and discovered that her bowl of cereal had turned to sludge. Mum had told her not to add milk the night before. She paced the kitchen, chewing nervously. Punctuality wasn’t her strength, yet she was determined to make a good first impression. Today, she told herself, she would arrive on time at her new job looking calm, professional and organised. As planned she reached the solitary bus stop in good time. A man with a grey moustache joined her, struggling to carry both his briefcase and umbrella. “Excuse me”, he said “I don’t usually catch the bus. Could you tell me if I’ve got the right change?” He held out a palmful of pound coins, two euros, and one button. At that moment a lorry rumbled passed, causing the man’s umbrella to flip inside out. His coins jumped into the air, bounced off the pavement and joined the torrent of rainwater heading

for the drain. Instinctively, Melissa chased after the coins, scooping her fingers through the greasy water. She even managed to rescue the button. Straightening up she smelt a gust of diesel fumes and watched in horror as her bus sailed past. Tears of fury pricked her eyes. “Was that the bus?” the man asked cheerfully as Melissa handed him back his change. “So sorry. Did you need to be somewhere urgently?” “It’s my first day at work.” Melissa suppressed a sob; things were bad enough without smudged mascara. “First day eh?” He smiled winsomely as though she’d just told him she was off to the zoo. “Where are you working?” Melissa did not feel in the mood for small talk but manners got the better of her. “Frinkley and Sons, just off the High Street.” “Good firm”, the man stroked his moustache thoughtfully. “I’m sure they’ll understand.” Melissa was not so sure. The next bus arrived late and packed with wet passengers. Melissa clung to the handrail in the steaming aisle, afraid to look at her watch. The bus crawled along through heavy traffic, grinding to a halt at every stop. The town

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hall clock struck nine, and Melissa’s heart sank. As the bus pulled into the High Street, Melissa broke into a run before the doors even opened. She dodged pedestrians and puddles until, breathless, she burst through the door of Frinkley and Sons. Mrs Pringle, who had interviewed Melissa, sat at her desk. She cast a meaningful glance at the clock. “Sorry I’m late.” Melissa panted, rain water pouring down her forehead. “Well it’s nice of you to join us.” Mrs Pringle said dryly. She slowly looked Melissa up and down. Melissa felt miserable. This wasn’t the entrance she had so carefully planned. As she was taking off her coat, the office door opened and the man from the bus stop strolled in. “Before you say anything”, he declared, holding up his umbrella, “I would like to stress that it’s entirely my fault this young lady is late.” Melissa’s cheeks flushed even redder; this man seemed determined to upset her day. Mrs Pringle looked at them both in surprise. “That’s alright Mr Frinkley. I’m sure”, she gave Melissa a smile, “there’s a perfectly reasonable explanation.”

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Well hello,

have I caught you peeking! I’m Flat 3, 17 Jackson Terrace, Aberdeen. I’m the whole of the top floor of a 3 flatted property. I have a lounge, eat-in kitchen, bathroom and one bedroom. I’m situated in a quiet street which has “free parking” (but we’ll whisper that so the council doesn’t hear). I am easy access to the beach and all the amenities it has to offer. Two large supermarkets. The University of Aberdeen. King Street which is great if you work at Bridge of Don or Aberdeen City and a fantastic bus service.

So what makes me so special... Like I said, I’m the top floor of a 3-flatted property and my neighbours are all friendly. I have nice double-glazed windows and gas central heating to keep you toastie and a security entry system to keep you safe. My present owner bought me six year’s ago as her first flat. At the time she had to pick social space over bedroom space and guess what - I won - as I had the social space she craved as a first time buyer and entertainer of friends! My bedroom maybe compromised but it still takes a double bed, a triple pine wardrobe and a chest of drawers and I can still get access to the bed! My kitchen will take a table and chairs and comfortably sits four. I have shared outside space within a walled garden. I have ample storage space for all your extra bits and bobs and access to the loft space too! I would be an ideal purchase for a first time buyer. A nice mummy and daddy looking for an investment whilst their children are at University. A buy-to-let opportunity for the would be entrepreneur. So why not pick up your phone and book a viewing right now ... telephone 07746 669234. If I can get you through the door i don’t think you will be disappointed. I’m a snip at offers over £98,000 My full particulars and home report can be viewed at ASPC Reference: 294195 URL For This Property: http://www.aspc.co.uk/cgi-bin/public/SINGLE?ID=294195 I look forward to welcoming you as my new owner. Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

Murielâ€™s Puzzle Pages Calcudoku Each row and column should contain the numbers 1-6. The numbers placed in a heavily outlined set of squares may be repeated, but must produce the calculation in the top left corner, using the mathematical symbol provided. So, for example, when multiplied, the numbers 3 and 4 total 12: Any block of one square will x12 contain the number in the top 4 3 left corner. +11

x24 /5

+11 /6

x18

x20

CODEWORD Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a different number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. Once you have filled these throughout the grid you can start guessing words and reveal other letters. As you find the letters enter them in the box below.

10 18 20

13 5

18 24

19 9

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14 3

11 2

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20 11

13 21

12 16

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18 8

11 13

12 12

I M 25

18 13

3 6

3 5

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24 20

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8 18

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Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Saturday 9am-1pm CLOSED THURSDAY

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Across 1. 203 squared plus 260 (5) 5. 8 Across multiplied by four (3) 6. 5 Across plus 14 Down plus nine (3) 8. One thirteenth of 7 Down (2) 9. Pounds in eight stone (3) 11. One fifteenth of 15 Across (2) 13. 22 Across multiplied by five (3) 15. 27 Across minus one eleventh of 25 Across (3) 16. 226 squared plus 292 (5) 17. 21 Across plus 3 Down minus four (3) 19. Inches in 12 feet (3) 21. One thirteenth of 13 Across (2) 22. 25 Across plus 28 Down (3) 24. One seventh of 14 Down (2) 25. 11 squared (3) 27. 13 Across plus 4 Down (3) 29. 166 squared minus 108 (5) Down 1. Pints in five gallons (2) 2. 19 Across minus three (3) 3. 9 Across multiplied by six (3) 4. 28 Down multiplied by two (2) 5. 11 Across plus 2 Down plus one eleventh of 25 Across (3) 7. 4 Down plus 14 Down plus 14 (3) 8. 242 squared minus 88 (5) 10. 106 squared plus 12 squared plus 4 squared (5) 12. 22 Across multiplied by 25 Across (5) 14. 17 Across minus seconds in three minutes (3) 15. 13 Across plus 1 Down plus 4 Down (3) 18. 5 Down plus 22 Down plus half of 1 Down (3) 20. Minutes in two hours plus 18 Down (3) 22. 22 Across minus 52 (3) 23. 1 Down plus 15 Down minus 27 (3) 26. Square root of 484 (2) 28. Months in four years (2)

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Muriel’s Puzzle Pages

Cryptic Crossword Across 1. One in position for a flatfish (6) 4. Actor ridicules swinging beds (8) 9. Initial tense slip bringing fright (6) 10. Tear atom apart for this drink (8)

15. Lone arrangement for Christmas (4) 16. Soother converted in Paris (7) 20. Float around an English royal house (7) 21. Oars moved to rise rapidly (4) 25. Drama with a marine fleet (6) 26. A banker’s breakdown state (8) 28. Messy type; one by a country (8) 29. Cast out from the ash bin (6) 30. Place one team reserved (3,5) 31. Receive an embrace or viewed! (6)

10 11

13 14

12. Wasted nineties scientist! (8) 13. First master in love with an islander (6)

17 20 22

26 27

31 ©Puzzlepress.co.uk

Down 1. Revised transept designs (8)

14. Dish looked at, being drunk? (3-4)

2. Set up a grander form (8)

17. Battle fatigues for a jailer? (8)

3. Mutant locust hits hard (6)

18. Crisp one about to plot (8)

5. Organisation Mary rebuilt (4)

19. Creep had somehow lectured (8)

6. Drinks from a strain I’m developing (8)

22. Dad takes advantage of breaks (6)

7. Man in first cold and new fabric (6)

23. Rip Tom apart to bring in (6)

8. Pries around cutlery (6)

24. Box holding English produce (6)

11. SOS, I’m in some kind of operation! (7)

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Help ChildLine in Scotland make sure no child’s cry for help goes unheard At the NSPCC’s ChildLine service in Scotland we want to make sure that no child’s cry for help goes unheard - this is why we need more volunteers. Thousands of children speak to a ChildLine in Scotland volunteer counsellor every year because they feel they have no one else to turn to about their worries or concerns. And now, in addition to the helpline, young people can also contact ChildLine about their concerns via one-toone online counselling and email. Last year, ChildLine’s Scottish volunteers offered support and advice to over 32,000 children from across the UK on a wide

range of issues, including bullying, abuse and neglect. Volunteers are at the heart of what we do and by joining us you can help make a difference to the lives of other young people. Anyone can volunteer - no experience of counselling or working with children is needed and full training will be provided. If you would like to find out more about volunteer opportunities at the Aberdeen base please contact Kerri Stewart on 0844 890 0200 or visit www.nspcc.org.uk/volunteer ChildLine is located on the 3rd Floor of Ruby House, 8 Ruby Place, Aberdeen (off Golden Square)

THROUGHOUT THE WORLD

HAVE THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME

Take part in one of hundreds of adventure challenges and help to change the lives of sick children in hospitals and hospices across the UK Choose your charity challange at www.wallaceandgromitcharity.org.uk or call 0845 600 1924

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Music Theatre Live Entertainment

What’s On in September at His Majesty’s Th Wednesday, September 12: To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Aberdeen’s Get Oot and Aboot 50+ Festival, tenor and BBC radio presenter Jamie MacDougall hosts a gala evening of entertainment with mezzo-soprano Cheryl Forbes and Scottish folk legend Alastair McDonald, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122 Friday, September 14: One of the worlds most popular and travelled comedians Danny Bhoy and his new show Wanderlust, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen at 8pm. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122 Friday, September 14: Alternative Scottish hip hop act Stanley Odd return to Aberdeen in promotion of the eagerlyawaited second album Reject in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122

Friday to Saturday, September 14 to 22: The third in Aberdeen Performing Arts’ trilogy of Scottish classics is a visuallystunning fresh adaptation by playwright Peter Arnott of Robin Jenkins’ novel The Cone Gatherers, set on a Scottish Estate during World War ll, in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm, with 2pm Tuesday and Thursday matinees and 2.30pm Saturday, September 22, matinee. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122 Saturday, September 15: On his mission to find the best Indian takeway in Britain, in Indian Takeaway with Hardeep Singh Kohli, the broadcaster writer and Celebrity Masterchef finalist orders a takeaway live on stage for delivery to the stage then races against time to cook his own sumptuous feast before it arrives, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7pm.

Sunday, September 16: Twenty-five years after first coming together to work on a television series, Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham are still performing the music which has earned them both the title of Dr and an MBE, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen at 7.30pm. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122 Wednesday, September 19: Following an award-winning debut in 2010, ThickSkin returns with a magnetic new play by Davy Anderson, The Static, a kinetic coming-of-age story about desire, guilt and mindover-matter, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 7pm. Suitable for ages 14+. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122 Thursday, September 20: Born of a commission from Derby Jazz last year, the exciting new Immeasurable Code Quintet, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 7.30pm. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122 Saturday, September 22: Seventy-five minute behind the scenes tour at Aberdeen’s iconic Edwardian landmark, His Majesty’s Theatre, in HMT at 10.30am. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122

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Music Theatre Live Entertainment

heatre, Music Hall and Lemon Tree, Aberdeen Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel : 01224 641122 Saturday, September 22: The North East’s favourite Scottish traditional music show, Saturday Night at The Auld Meal Mill, is now in its 31st consecutive year, compered by Robert Lovie, with Scots comedian Eddie Rose from Pitlochry topping the bill, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122 Sunday, September 23: Back on the road performing both the classic hits of the last six decades and their superb new material are The Drifters, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen at 7.30pm. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122 Monday to Saturday, September 24 to 29: Celebrating Dickens’ 200th anniversary and starring David Robb and James Roache in the thrilling two-hander adaptation by Hugh Janes of Charles Dickens’ ghost stories The Haunting, at His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm, with Thursday 2pm and Saturday 2.30pm matinees. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen. com or tel 01224 641122 Tuesday and Wednesday, September 25 and 26: Gilded Balloon and Tron Theatre present Casablanca – The Gin Joint Cut, a lovingly

disrespectful homage of one of the classic films of all time, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 7pm. Recommended age 14+. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122 Friday, September 28: National Theatre of Scotland and TAG present a double bill, The Monster in the Hall and Yellow Moon, by David Greig, both tackling issues facing young people, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North

Street, Aberdeen, at 7pm. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen. com or tel 01224 641122

Saturday, September 29: Seventy-five minute behind the scenes tour at Aberdeen’s iconic Edwardian landmark, His Majesty’s Theatre, in HMT at 10.30am. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122

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Saturday, September 29: One of the world’s greatest orchestras, Philharmonia Orchestra, makes a rare visit to Aberdeen with its principal conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen, as part of an international Beethoven series, marking the 185th anniversary of the composer’s death, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen at 7.30pm. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or

tel 01224 641122 Saturday, September 29: Fat Hippy Records present an evening of some of the best local folk rock bands in the run up to the labels’ 10 year anniversary with The Lorelei, Amy Sawers, the Brothers Reid and Craig John Davidson, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, Aberdeen, doors at 8pm. Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122

Letters ... Dear Sue, I just wanted to write and thank you so much for featuring our Playgroup's news in the latest edition of the West End Gazette it is much appreciated! All the best for the Gazettes future success... Regards, Julie Baghurst, Playgroup Administrator (by email) Hi Sue, I've just had time for a quick look through the Gazette. It is looking really good with lots of articles and adverts making me want to make time to read them properly. Thankyou VERY MUCH for the full page advert.!!!! Sheila (by email)

Hi I just wanted to send you a huge THANK YOU from Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation for all the support you have shown us over the years! Your support has helped us raise thousands for sick children in hospitals and hospices across the UK and we really wouldn't have been able to do this without you! Our next promotion will be our adventure challenges! There are more details coming soon and I would be very grateful if you will be able to help us promote this when the time comes. Thank you once again for all your support Best Wishes Ellen (by email)

Braeside and Mannofield

Community Council Meet at Airyhall Community Centre

Meetings will be at 7pm on the second Tuesday of the month in St Josephâ€™s School

ALL WELCOME !

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Local Events Diary Aberdeen and District CND are organizing an evening of Poetry and Song for International Peace Day, Friday 21st Sept. at 7pm. It is being held at the Quaker Meeting House, 98 Crown Street, AB11 6HJ.

Friends of Aberdeen International Youth Festival. Concert in Queens Cross Church Entertainment by Moira Docherty and Richard Knight. Friday 5th October 7.30pm Tickets ÂŁ10 which will include light refreshments. Telephone contact - 01224 861765

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 Large range of Designer frames and specialised spectacle lenses Accredited by RACH for Childrenâ€™s Eye Examinations

Home Visits Free Car parking Open Late night Tuesday - 7pm & Saturday - 4pm Scott Gilmour BSc (Hons) MCOptom Book space with the gazette today Friday 21 September 2012 is the deadline for the October Issue

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5 The Courtyard, Cults, Aberdeen AB15 9SD

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

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Can you log on and sign our petition? For years the pavements & roads in the city of Aberdeen have been in a very bad state, it’s brought up regularly in people’s conversations, yet nothing seems to be getting done to resolve the issue!

presenting the Council Leader the results of the petition,which has already gained around 150 signatures so far from online and offline versions, in December in preparation for the Councils next budget statement

Future Choices Charity wants to change that perception. The Charity caters for the Disabled community of the city and provides social inclusion and recreational activities. The Charities Deputy Chief Fundraiser, Mr Aaron Mcintosh (16) is fronting a petition campaign which aims to highlight the very public issue and aims to try and get A.C.C. to pledge a long term solution to this on going problem.

This is a Public awareness campaign which we hope in the end, we can press A.C.C. to sort this issue out once and for all.

Support of Mr McIntosh’s Petition Campaign are Mr Paul O'Connor MBE from Inchgarth Community Centre as well as Dame Anne Begg MP, who has had first hand experience on the state of the pavements. Aaron will be

Above is a photo of Aaron McIntosh and Dame Anne Begg MP near the Town House highlighting the issue. For more information please contact Future Choices Deputy Chief Fundraiser Aaron McIntosh on 07591598480 http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/fixour-pavements-and-roads/

Drama/Film Groups for children aged 7-16 years Why choose Script to Screen & Stage? No Auditions - “we believe every child deserves the opportunity to grow in ability” Low Realistic Rate £15 - 21/2 hour session Learn how to edit and produce your own films & star in them Groups in your area – no long journey into Aberdeen Contact Details:

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Bring this advert along giving you a FREE TRIAL at any time.

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Grampian Symptoms Study

ave you had a sore throat, chest pain or a persistent cough in the last two weeks?

If so, and you’re aged over 18, a University of Aberdeen health researcher would like to hear from you. Alison Thornton is leading the Grampian Symptoms Study, which aims to find out more about how people think about their symptoms and what they do about them. “We would like to talk to people who have had a sore throat, persistent cough or chest pain in the last two weeks. We are interested in speaking to people whether or not they have sought medical advice,” said Alison, who is based at the University’s Centre of Academic Primary Care. “The study involves talking to me about your symptom and filling in two short questionnaires. Everything is kept confidential. It should take less than an hour in total and can be done wherever suits the participant – either in their own home, or at the University (Foresterhill campus).” “It is important that people remember that this is a research study,” she added. “I

am not qualified to give medical advice, so if people are worried about their symptoms, they should seek medical advice in the usual way”. Mags has already taken part in the study. She said, “I enjoyed being able to help. Alison was very pleasant. She was kind enough to come to my home. It was very easy.” Alison added: “We need around 45 volunteers for the study and are looking to include a wide variety of people – men and women of different ages and from all walks of life.” “Anyone who is interested in getting involved can call me on Aberdeen 437216 or email ajthornton@abdn.ac.uk and I can send them an information pack telling them more about the study. I would also be interested in hearing from any community groups who would be willing for me to come and tell them more about the study.” “This is an opportunity to get involved in some community based research and we’d love to hear from anyone who thinks they might be able to help.”

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Deep in southern Morocco, the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs is a fabled land where ancient forts of mud and straw mingle their reflections in the sparkling waters of the river Dadès. Balancing on the rocks, sprinkled like sandcastles from village to village, they take on the colours of the earth, red, mauve, ochre and gold. Rainstorms and floods have long threatened their walls but they still stand, like proud sentinels from the past. In this tortured land shaped by earthquakes, the hills are bare, baked dry, but along the river are almond groves, luminous patches of young wheat and mud houses with zigzag patterns on their walls and ornate grills on their windows. Pink roses bloom in a secluded grove and in the little town of El Kelaa M’Gouna, every shop sells rose water and scented lotion. There, women cover their faces as you approach but their veils are fringed with silver trinkets. Where the roads from the valleys meet at over 3000 feet, Ouarzazate greets you with the most illustrious kasbah, once home of a wealthy lord. Inside, a forbidding maze of dark alcoves and latticed windows recalls centuries of history while storks rattle their beaks on the battlements. Follow the road and you could dine pasha-style in Tifoultout kasbah, gaze at turrets and wall tattoos in Taourirt or explore the World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou where the fragrance of mint tea lingers in the air and locals speak of Lawrence of Arabia, Jewel of the Nile and other epics filmed on the spot.

Suddenly, the desert wind rages through the streets, shaking the fig and pomegranate trees. Shops close their doors and the boys fishing in the river look at the sky and pack up their gear. It’s time to escape and climb to the spectacular Ait Saouen pass in the Anti-Atlas before tackling the steep descent to the Draa valley, stopping now and then to allow an iguana to crawl across the tarmac. To many visitors who come this far, Draa is the loveliest of the oases on the kasbah trail. Green palms, red earth, blue sky, it unfolds like a tapestry along a river draped in oleander. Adobe villages and kasbahs grow out of the land in a jumble of tapering towers and passageways, courtyards and crenellations. Men in white djellabas sit under the trees, putting the world to rights, and goats and chickens roam unconcerned while in the shrine of Tamegroute, pilgrims consult holy books written on gazelle skin. After the long drive south, Zagora rises like a mirage in the hazy heat, a bustling little place with a vast palmery, as lush as velvet, and camels offering rides along the river. Bunches of dates glow like gold in trees and in the late afternoon light, the lonely Zagora hill takes on a magical purple shade. Only the brave venture to M’Hamid at end of the road where toffee-coloured houses are almost buried in the sand. No more oases, no more kasbahs, only giant dunes encroaching on the land, wave upon wave, the domain of scorpions and snakes and lonely caravans on their way to Timbuktu, 52 days across the desert. Solange Hando

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Oases and Kasbahs Morocco Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

the one stop business shop ... Piano Tuition

T : 01224 - 316978

Piano Teacher West End Well established piano teacher has a few vacancies Magical Entertainment M: 07774 641230 E: dwgoulding@gmail.com Add some magic to all of your events. • Magic • Thought Reading • Escapology Contact: Dave Goulding www.thinkingofit.co.uk

Reflexology

Contact: Anne-Marie Fegen (RGN,MAR) 07803 505 827

Your feet are a map of the entire body. By applying pressure/ massage all organs can benefit,relax and rejuvenate GIVE IT A TRY!!!

Voice Coach M: 07532250033

E: l.staite@btinternet.com

Piano Teacher M: 078901 48059 E: fionapianotutor@live.co.uk

Fully qualified and experienced CDS DDA IPA, Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama. Improve your general speech skills. Work on effective presentation skills. Accent work. Work on poetry and/or drama pieces for your exams. REASONABLE RATES Aberdeen City

Fully Qualified and Experienced : • Grade 8 Distinction • DIP.MUS.ED. R.S.A.M.D.

Christie Wood Joinery

Possibilities Counselling and Psychotherapy Centre

H : 311342

M : 07850 086241 All types of joinery work undertaken, Bathroom and Kitchen installation, Windows, doors, flooring and property maintenance. All trades supplied.

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Attract local customers for your local business. Book this space for as little as £19 plus vat ... Whole year £150 plus vat Display adverts start fm : £35+vat

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• Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama

Beginners : all ages and stages welcome. Why not refresh your bygone skills. • Exams optional : Associated Board, Piano and Theory Grades 1-8

Reasonable rates Aberdeen City

T: 07593 768 129 E: info@aberdeentherapy.com W: www.aberdeentherapy.com

Contact: Tracey Johnston, Clinical Director

Gain relief from distressing emotions. Strengthen your relationships. Change your life for the better. *50% Discounts available for first appointments*

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.

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the one stop business shop ... Maths Tutor Contact: Anne Ashley on 07973 864953 E:amaberdeen@hotmail.co.uk Maths graduate & qualified teacher Standard Grade/Intermediate & Higher On-going tutoring S3/S4/S5 and prelim preparation Monthly and bi-monthly options available West End based Free Introductory session £20.00 per hour

George Cormack Painter & Decorator T: 01224 827081 M: 07840 650 853

40yrs experience, free estimates, no job to small and no vat.

gcormack@talktalk.net

Magician and Balloonist M: 07879331130 E: mrraemagic@aol.com For all your magic needs Available for: · Birthday parties · Weddings · Galas and Fayres · Ballooning · Restaurants · School Events · Charity and Fundraisers

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Private Piano Teacher

M: 07833771754 E: jennymmalcolm@hotmail.com Interested in taking up the piano or always dreamed of playing? • Exam Board experienced, • Fully qualified • All ages & styles of music taught • For fun and/or qualifications • Centrally located in Rosemount Viaduct

Learn Conversational Spanish or French

Rona’s Mobile Hairdressing

Experienced language teacher offers adult classes at Airyhall Community Centre for all ability levels in Spanish and Advanced French.

Have your hair done in the comfort of your own home. Reasonable rates.

Contact John at jymcl11@gmail.com or tel: 01224 582491

Lawn mowers

Whatever the weather, one thing is certain - grass grows! From town house mini-lawn to school playing fields to stately home green acres, every patch has been mown time after time through the summer. Now imagine that task undertaken with scythes and hand shears and we begin to appreciate an undervalued invention, the lawn mower! Formal lawns with short cropped grass first appeared in France in the early 1700s and the idea quickly spread to England, across Europe and the world. Lawns were first kept neat by animals and servant gardeners armed with scythes, sickles and shears. By the 1800s, progress in mechanical engineering produced machines with revolving blades. The first patent for a mechanical lawn mower was granted in August 1830 to engineer Edwin Budding of Stroud,

House : 01224 323774 Mobile : 07905 927 101

Gloucestershire. Budding’s design was based on a cutting tool used for trimming carpet, with a series of blades arranged around a cylinder. An unpatented 17” grass cutter designed to be pulled by a pony was built by Scotsman Alexander Shanks in 1841. The first chain driven mower was produced by Thomas Green in 1859 and mass production followed in the 1860s. In 1870, Ellwood McGuire of Richmond, Indiana designed a lightweight hand-pushed machine which was an instant commercial success. The basic design of the cylinder mower has changed little since the 1930’s although a light, efficient rotary mower was developed in the 1950s. Petrol driven mowers were improved with smaller more powerful engines, but the problem of maintenance and pollution remains. Electric mowers are now popular, but for limitations by cable length to the power source. Today, as we give our lawns that last autumn cut, let’s thank Mr. Budding for his foresight. ©Leon F. Jones. 2011.

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community clubs & groups

adult groups Granite City WRI Ruthrieston Community Centre, 536 Holburn Street, Meets 4th Wed of the month, Sept to Jun. 7pm – 9pm. All welcome: Tel 571131 or 316266 University of Third Age (U3A): tel 702836 Marion. Informal learning for the retired & semi-retired. Monday Club : tel : 01224-322946 Queen’s Cross Church Hall - Mon’s 2-4pm. Friendly games of bridge & scrabble - beginners welcome - All Ages Royal Horticultural Society Abdn tel : 781171 1st Tues in Mar @ 7.30pm Girl’s Brigade Hall, 19a Victoria St The Learig Orchestra Tel : 322617 Brian Priestley Welcomes string, brass & woodwind players of all standards to its rehearsals at Woodend Hospital on Tues at 7.30pm Old Time Dance Classes Dunbar St Hall, Old Aberdeen - 7.45pm 10pm 1st & 3rd Tues each month £4.00 per night Tel : James Watson : 314953 Scottish Country Dancing classes start during w/c 17th September - from Beginners to Advanced (and social classes). For more information contact 01224 636128. Come along to our Taster/Recruitment sessions to see what it is all about: Tues 11th Sept Garthdee Church from 7:30 - 9:45, or on Thurs 13th Sept at Holburn West Church 2:00 - 3:30. Aberdeen Chorus - Sweet Adelines Int’ Britannia Hotel, Bucksburn, Mon 7.30 10pm Tel: Debbie 07967629272 Silver City Blues - Masters Swimming Club

Hazlehead Pool Mon 8:30-10pm, Cults Academy Tues 8:15-9:45pm, Robert Gordon University Weds 7-9pm, Cults Academy Thurs 8:30-10:00pm. Contact: Head Coach Hilary Stewart on 07815824057 Senior Citizens Group Tues (2-4pm) Airyhall Community Centre. New members always welcome Interested, contact 318698 (sec) The City of Aberdeen Probus A Club for retired businessmen & professionals. Meet on Wed am’s twice monthly (Sept - Jun), (Aberdeenshire Cricket Club) A wide range of talks on many topics

fm interesting speakers. Other activities incl occasional lunches, trips, bowling & golf competitions. New members welcome. Chris Blunt, Tel. 317298 Airyhall Community Centre Bowling Section Meets Mon/Wed/Fri 1012 – Fri pm 2-4 £6 for session £4 to join community centre Limited spare bowls if you don’t have your own. Tel : 318103 (Bill Setter) Granite City Speakers Club Meet every two weeks on Friday nights at 8.0pm in Aberdeen Arts Centre, Secretary: Fred Stewart, tel 723937 Our club offers a warm friendly atmosphere, advice and support. New members & visitors welcome. Aberdeen Kilt Kickers American Square Dance Club, Meets at WRI Hall, Cults, Beginners from September 7.30 - 9.00pm £2.50 per night Fred Gibb, Tel 486665 Woodend Bowling Club 285 King’s Gate, A. McCulloch Secretary Tel. 317317 Friendly and relaxing outdoor activity: new members welcome. Aberdeen Gaelic Club Brings together Gaelic speakers and individuals interested in Gaelic language and culture. Gaelic language evening classes & weekend courses plus social activities. tel 0777 939 8289, e clubgaidhlig@googlemail.com or http://aberdeengaelic.wordpress.com.

Holburn West Church Tennis 12a Ashley Park South Open Apr - Oct Annual Subs & Family Membership at Bargain Prices New members always welcome Small friendly Club Sally Davis (sec) Tel. 326111 Aberdeen Bowling Club Come and join us for a game of bowls at 50 Carlton Place. Tel.643233 Woodburn Walkers Enjoy the countryside, meet new friends, keep fit – join the Woodburn Walkers. Age: 55+. Transport: Hire Bus. Fortnightly: Tues Start Point: Hazlehead Park. Time: 9am for 9.15am. Average Distance: 7 miles Tel: 318313 & 821753 Yoga Teacher : Florence Wed 1030-1130,

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Broomhill Activity Centre 050 t : 316278 £2 per class It’s wonderful! Bon Accord branch – Sugarcraft Guild Meets at Rubislaw Park Care Home Last Mon of month, 7-9pm Learn lots through demos and workshops £5 per meeting (incl refreshments) – friendly & informal group, enjoyable at all skill levels. Call Madeleine Fraser 591672 for a programme Viking Hiking (Nordic Walking) One hour sessions each Thurs, Fri, Sat and Sun at 10am, Meet at Hazlehead main car park (behind the Park Restaurant). Info fm John Greig Tel. 321088 Aberdeen Humanist Group Skene House Hotel, 6 Union Grove Monthly meetings for those with a secular life-stance. Interesting speakers and topics for discussion. Tel : M Richardson - 01888-562237 Northern Arts Club 8 Bon Accord Square, Aberdeen Come along to draw and paint on Wednesdays 10-12.30pm. Tutor session 1st Wed. of every month. Contact Jacqueline 586928 Life Drawing Class 8 Bon Accord Square, Aberdeen Saturday morning 10-1pm Please contact Ian 484040 Bridge Tuition Beginner and intermediate Thursday evening, call Margaret 868230 Room/s for hire 8 Bon Accord Square, Aberdeen Do you need a new venue for your book club/ chess club/choir/art & craft club, then contact Jacqueline 586928 Aberdeen Tai Chi Chuan ‘88 Authentic tai chi, thorough tuition with Don Wells. Cults Church Hall, 6.30pm Wed £3.50. First class free. Rotary Club of Aberdeen Deeside Weekly on a Wed. at 6.15pm for 6.45pm in Cults Hotel. Rotary is a Service Organisation for community and international needs putting “Service before Self”. Take a look at www. aberdeewndeesiderotary.org.uk to see our range of activities and speakers, or come along and see what we get up to. Contact secretary Quentin Tweedie 868218 Iyengar Yoga Classes ; Tues 12 - 1pm & 1pm - 2pm at citymoves Tues 7.30 - 9.30 pm & Wed 7.15 - 9.15 at South e : gazette@fsmail.net

Holburn Parish Church. All classes run by Fiona Bochel, Cost is £5 an hour, tel 861347 Like walking? Then why not join the “Seafield Walking Group”. It’s a great way of keeping fit, socialising and getting out into the countryside! For further information contact Elinor Tel. 314609. Tango Aberdeen Argentine tango dance classes Wed & Sun evenings fm 7.30pm £6 (Conc £4) Discover the passion & elegance of Argentine Tango www.tangoaberdeen.com Keep Fit Class, the Swedish Way! Day: Monday Time: 5.30pm Fitness, flexibility and strength,“all round exercise to great music”. No need to book, just turn up and have fun while working out! For more info : contact Sue 07766218880 Mannofield Church Hill Walking Club Monthly trips to the Cairngorms. New members welcome. Contact Peter Stewart for a programme. 313721 or p.stewart1@btinternet.com . Rubislaw Church Centre Fountainhall Road/Beaconsfield Place Open Monday - Friday morning for teas, coffees etc Full access and facilities for those with disabilities Rooms available for hire - contact 645477 www.rubislawchurch.org.uk Jog Scotland Meets at RGU Sport Garthdee Road Wed 6pm Contact Mandy 322158 Jog Scotland - Airyhall Meets outside Airyhall Community Centre Tuesday 7pm. Contact Julie 325 830 or www.jogscotland-airyhall.co.uk Rotary club of Aberdeen St. Nicholas At present we are canvassing for new members,we are a very friendly club who meet for lunch,friendship and business every Monday 12.45 for1.00 pm at the Northern Hotel.If you are interested you are welcome to join us any Monday lunch time. If you would like to find out more click on to rotary 1010.co.uk select clubs and go to Aberdeen St. Nicholas or telephone Ernie on 641299/312493. Airyhall CommCentre badminton group meets weekly on Mondays 8pm to 10pm new session starts 5/9/11 New members welcome. Annual sub to join centre is £6 plus nightly fee of £1.00. Phone David Campbell 321301 or e mail david@david143.doo.co.uk Hatha Yoga Tues 17.45-19.15, AYC, 8 Bon Accord Sq Thurs 10.00-11.30/Fri 10.15-11.45, Fri 12.00-1250, Queens Cross Church, Tel 648475 or moira.chicometrics@gmail.com

Registered Yoga Scotland teacher Yoga Summer Classes 7 weeks, 2 venues, organised by GYA Craigiebuckler Church starting 3rd July Tuesday evenings 19.30 - 21.00. 8 Bon Accord Sq, top floor, from 5th July Thursday morning 10.00 - 11.30. Different teacher each class, details http://www.grampianyoga.org.uk Drop in only £5, £4 members Craigiebuckler Seniors Club Criagiebuckler Church Hall, 1st Wed of every month 2-4pm speakers/entertainment/teas/coffees £2 per person, all‘seniors’welcome Woodend Bridge Club Woodend Bowling Club Bridge on Mon evening, Tue evening and Friday afternoons. Ample free parking. Contact Chris Blunt 317298 Craigiebuckler & Seafield Community Council craigden10@live.com We will discuss issues affecting our community and decide on strategies for resolving them. 7.30pm in Craigiebuckler Parish Church hall Airyhall Choral Ensemble ACE Juniors and ACE Seniors. Both groups meet at the Airyhall Community Centre on Fridays, Juniors meet at 3.30pm & Seniors at 4.30pm. Cost: £28 per pupil for a term of eight classes. Telephone: 433163 Valerie Kemp or for more info & bookingform http://tutorsalliance.co.uk/Music-Lessons.php Friskiis & Svettis Exercise Class Senior Basic : Monday 9.50 Friday 10am £2.50 per class. Drop in - come as often as you like. Cairncry Community Centre Tel : Gunilla - 319377 Adult Italian Classes: Hillview Community Church - Cults Email enrica.conti@tiscali.co.uk Tel 07786 827714 Morven Singers We are a 4 part Choir singing a wide variety of music. We meet in Ruthrieston Church Hall, Broomhill Road on Wed 7.30p.m. to 9.30p.m. Interested, contact Tel 07519 749 258. Airyhall Ramblers: Over 50s Walking Group Walks fortnightly on Wednesdays, average distance 6/7 miles. Transport provided, meeting near Airyhall School at 9.15. Friendly folk, good exercise. Interested? Contact Anne Ross 314524 Exercise the fun way, the Swedish way! Fun & effective all over body workout to lively music! Hilton Community Centre, Hilton Road. No need to book, just turn up & enjoy. Tuesday 6.30pm-7.30pm

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faye53@btopenworld.com No fancy keep fit gear required, just comfortable clothing & trainers, maybe a bottle of water! For further info, contact Faye 07738 786926 Westburn Lawn Tennis Club Come and play tennis on REAL GRASS courts at Westburn Park. Westburn is a small, friendly club offering both social and competitive tennis at very reasonable rates. Courts open SUNDAY 22 APRIL 2012 at 2pm - come and join us (free for your first visit). Membership info: Barbara Miller, 635556 Italian Classes for Beginners & Intermediate Starting in August at Kaimhill Community Learning Italian Classes for Beginners and Intermediate PLUS Italian Cookery - All welcome - for more information 01224 209622 OR email: giuseppinaca@fsmail.net Russian evening and daytime classes beginning late September 2012 in North Deeside area for all interests and ages. Register interest at easyrussian4u@gmail. com or ring Vilena 07778 781030 March Hare Market marchharemarket@gmail.com 07725 591 866 The March Hare Market is a NEW regular Craft & Vintage Market to hit Aberdeen City, it will feature 22-24 stalls selling handmade crafts & Vinatge wares. The Event will launch on 29th Septemberand will be taking place at the Boys Brigade, Crimon Place, AB10 1RX. 29th Spetember 2012 11am - 4pm FREE EVENT Adult Spanish and French classes Airyhall Community Centre Experienced language teacher E-mail John at jymcl11@gmail.com or Tel: 01224 582491

Girls Brigade : Meet Tues in Queens Cross Church Hall Explorers P1-3 : 5pm-6.30pm Juniors P4-7 : 6pm-7.30pm Brigaders S1-6 : 6pm-8pm Morag Pirie - 01358-742621 Girls Brigade : Are you in P1-P3? Looking for some fun? Then come and join us we meet every Thurs @ South Holburn Church, Holburn St. Tel : Lesley Bills - 01224-596596 Rainbows, Brownies, Guides tel : 01224 638685 for your nearest group Beavers, Cubs, Scouts : tel : 01224 208426 for your nearest group Boys Brigade HQ : tel : 01224 644400 for your nearest group 17th Aberdeen Cub Scouts : Thurs @ 1800h Scout Hall, Ruthrie Terr Tel Jacqui Duncan : 07703 435 251 or email : jacqui4bs@hotmail.co.uk Choi Kwang Do : Inchgarth Community Centre Garthdee Mond 4.45-5.45 Thurs 6-7pm Tel Claire - 746778

After School Bridge classes : Wed at The Bridge Club 14 Rubislaw Terrace P6-7 - Anytime fm 3.00-4.30. S1-6 - Anytime fm 3.00-5.30 , Sally Reid : 01224 - 322719 ATC 107 Squadron Open to new members, male & female aged 13 – 16. Also looking for enthusiastic adult staff, male & female to join the team., Prince Charles Cadet Centre, Albury Road, Ferryhill, Aberdeen Mon & Weds 19.00 - 21.30. Tel. 01224 590679 www.107aircadets.org. Highland Dancing Classes Is your child interested in starting a new hobby, Highland Classes are available at Craigiebuckler Church and Danscentre through Carolanne Sinclair . Open to all levels of experience, with beginners classes starting at aged 5 & over. Contact Carolanne directly on 07972104774 or by email at sinclair_carolanne@yahoo.com New class after the summer at Mannofield Church on Wed afternoons.

Fun Kids Yoga Airyhall Community Centre Tues 4-4.30pm (4-7 yrs) & 4.30-5pm (8-13 yrs) Call 07967 647 220 or go to www.louisayoga.co.uk Youth Hockey Coaching Tuesday evenings 5.45pm-7.00pm from September to March for or children from P4 to S4. Coaching provided by Gordonians Hockey Club at RGC astroturf pitches on Countesswells Road. Children from all schools are welcome. More details are available at www.gordonianshockey.com GCW Hockey Club Fun sessions for all At Rubislaw Astroturf Thursday evenings 6.30 – 7.30 pm Youth for age 10+ 7.15 – 9pm Adults Contact coach@gcwhc.co.uk 32nd Aberdeen Anchor Boys If you’re in P1, 2 or 3 and want to take part in lots of fun activities, come and join us in Craigiebuckler Church Hall on Thursday evenings 6-7.15pm. Please contact me for further information and start date. Tel: Sarah 317827

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community clubs & groups

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community clubs & groups

parent and toddler groups Mannofield Mother & Toddlers 10-1130am Mon for children aged 0-3. 10- 130am Wed for children aged 0-3. 10-11.30am Fris for children aged 0-3. Mannofield Church, Gt Western Rd All welcome - friendly, sociable groups Holburn West Mothers & Toddlers Meet on a Wed fm 0930 & Fri fm 9.45am Parent and Toddler Group Wed (not school hols) fm 9.45 - 11.15 Rubislaw church centre, beaconsfield pl NCT Bumps and Babies Queens Cross Church,Thurs fm 2 - 4pm ‘Toots’ Playgroup Airyhall Community centre 2’s Group 1 ½ to 2 ½ - Tues & Thurs 9.30 to 11.30 Playgroup 2 ½ onwards – Mon, Wed & Fri 9.30 – 11.30am Holburn West Playgroup Meet on a Wed fm 930am Babies andToddlers Mon 0945-1200 Crown Terr Methodist Church Friendly group for parents/carers of children aged 0-3 Cost £1 incl refreshments. 861209/733276 or 01330 823480 e-mail:

The 123 Group, Craigiebuckler Church Hall, Every Thurs 2-4pm, Adult and Child group; children fm babies up to the age of 3 are all welcome. Costs £8 per month, with lots of fun activities, crafts and healthy snacks provided for the children. For more information, please email the123group@yahoo.com, or call Pamela Morrison 07762481757 Aberdeen Dolphin Swimming Club Swim School for children fm 4 years old. Lessons at Hazlehead & Hazlewood Pools. Coaching for children who would like to train and swim competitively. Contact Louise Lindsay (membership secretary) on 596709 for more info. South Holburn Church Parent and Toddler Group E-mail: fmdfindon@aol.com www.nct.org.uk/in-your-area/aberdeen/W2T Parents with babies and toddlers aged Queen’s Cross Parent & Toddler Group Queens Cross Church Mon 9.30-11.30 Children 0 - 3 are invited to join us to meet other 0-4 & their grown-ups are very welcome. £1.50 parents ove a cup of tea or coffee and play with your child in a welcoming, childGaelic Parent & Child Group friendly setting. Thursday mornings 9.15 Gilcomstoun Primary School Mon, Wed & Fri - 11.15am. during school terms. 9.15-11.30. You don’t have to speak Gaelic to Grampian Twins club babiesand toddlers@aberdeenmethodist.org.uk attend. Mairi Morley 07900 337122, A voluntary group for parents of multiples, e : gaelic@aberdeencity.gov.uk. Midstocket Playgroup, get together on the last Friday of every Midstocket Parish Church, Harcourt Rd. Singing Tots month at St Francis of Assisi church, 213 2.5 - 5 year olds. Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 6mths - 3 yrs Mon 945-1015 & 1045 -1115 Deeside Gardens AB15 7PR. There for you 09.15 - 11.45, Mon,Tues,Thurs 13.00- 15.30. Rubislaw Church Centre during pregnancy and beyond for advice, Funded places available. Tel. 07542 256703 phone or text : 07745 924449 support and a great way to meet other www.midstocketplaygroup.co.uk info@singingtots.org /www.singingtots.org multiple mums in the city and shire area. Rubislaw Playgroup Playgroup: www.grampiantwinsclub.co.uk Toddler Time : Rubislaw Church Centre. Mon to Fri 9:15Wed 09:15–11:15 term time. Friendly, 11:45; from 30 mths to school age. Funded welcoming group for parents & children aged places available. Call 07747 830386 b/n 0-4. Cost 50 pence, inc snacks & refreshments 9:30 & 12:15 or email rubislawplaygroup@ New Life International Church, Leadside Road, hotmail.co.uk AB25 1TW Michelle - 07808 932 907 Toddlers and 2s: Ruthrieston West Church Twos Group Rubislaw Church Centre. Enjoy play, craft, Fri 9.45 - 11.00 ( During term time) Age 1year singing and snack. 10 months + £2.50 per child per session. For Toddlers: Up to 2 yrs; Wed 9:30-11:30 more information phone Lynne on 01224 2s Group: 2 to 3 yrs; Tues 9:30-11:30. Call 314692 07747 830386 b/n 9:30 & 12:15 or email Teeny Beats rubislawplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk/ Fun singalong with musical instruments. Messy Play Meets on a Wednesday 2pm - 3pm during Rubislaw Church Centre. Enjoy messy play term time at Rubislaw Church Centre. for ages 2 to 5. Wed & Fri 1:15-3pm. Call For children aged 0 to 5 years. £2 per session 07747 830386 b/n 9:30 & 12:15 or email discounted rate for additional children. For rubislawplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk/ further information contact Jenni Dalziel 07835852389, jennidalziel@live.co.uk Kids Crew Playgroup.2yrs 8mnths. Mon, Wed, Fri mornings 9.30am12pm. Funded Places available.

+ Two’s Group.Wed, Thurs 9.30-11am. Both groups at Ferryhill Community Centre, Albury Road, Ferryhill. Tel : 584118. Playgroup @ Ruthrieston Comm Centre ‘Playshed’, Holburn St Mon-Thurs 9.15-11.15. fm 2 yrs 6 mnths. £3.50 per session - includes healthy snack. Call 572211 Children’s Football Tel Alison - 314669 Football for children fm age 21/2 up to P3. Held at Kingswells and Airyhall. www.aberdeenfootballfun.co.uk NCT Waddling - Toddling Mon @ St Francis of Assisi Church, Deeside Dr, Mannofield 10-11.30, drop in group for mums to be, parents & carers of babies & toddlers birth - preschool

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Opening with a dramatic doughnuteating contest in which Skippy does indeed kick the bucket, this is a wildly funny and equally gross insight into the minds of teenage boys. Overweight genius Ruprecht Van Doren and his roommate Daniel ‘Skippy’ Juster attend Seabrook College for Boys in Dublin. Beginning at the end, it then goes back in time to follow Ruprecht in his pursuit of Lori from the neighbouring girls’ school. If you thought teenage boys were obsessed with flatulence and other bodily functions, you’re right. They’re also children struggling to find their identity and for that, the book is incredibly endearing.

This time it’s the teachers’ turn to have a voice. ‘Goodbye, Mr Chips’ is the sentimental tale of Mr Chipping, a much-loved staff member at a fictional boys’ public boarding school. Failing to connect with the pupils at first he eventually finds his confidence and a new love. Ok, it’s a bit mushy and sentimental but there’s something about these warm recollections of the retired schoolmaster that will melt your heart. Beautifully-written and wonderfully nostalgic it’ll have even the former bad boys remembering school through misty eyes.

On the face of it, Hailsham boarding school in the heart of the English countryside seems idyllic. The students are nurtured, encouraged to stay healthy and are protected from the outside world. The story centres round the love triangle of Kathy, Ruth and Tommy. As a now thirty-one year old, Kathy begins to reflect on their time at Hailsham and what it means to have been a student there. Without wanting to give the plot away, Hailsham has a dark secret and only a special type of person may attend. Ultimately, it’s a story about love, friendship and hope.

Saved by the Bell

narration, edgy cynicism and general teenage angst, we’re all reminded what it’s like to be adolescent. With its profanity and sexual content it remains on many banned book lists and thus has become an anthem for youth.

Featuring every aspect of boarding school life wizard-style, it’s an absolute must-read.

September signals the end of the summer holidays and the start of the new academic year. While you’re replenishing supplies of notepads and pens, why not pick up a novel that’s based in a school? Fail to find our book selection highly entertaining and… see me afterwards. The Catcher in the Rye : J.D. Salinger From the opening paragraph we’re in the mindset of the rebel with a cause, the ‘catcher in the rye’ himself, 16 year old Holden Caulfield. He’s been expelled from prep school and through his biting

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone : J.K. Rowling From the moment Harry, Ron and Hermione board the Hogwart’s Express at platform 9¾ we know that school will never be the same again. Who wouldn’t want to dine in the Great Hall, be tutored in muggle studies and represent your house at Quidditch?

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The Blackboard Jungle : Evan Hunter Set in New York, this is a gritty and realistic portrayal of a new teacher’s struggle to maintain discipline in an inner-city school. It may have been set in the 1950s but the subject matter is timeless, dealing with violence in a way that rings as clear as the school bell within today’s society. It has a brilliant climax that’s worth the wait and will make your old comprehensive feel like something from Enid Blyton.

September Itâ€™s September, and as we move into autumn, take a moment on Saturday 15th to gaze up at a sky that has become a battlefield. Thousands of feet above you an armada of German bombers drones sluggishly towards London, while swarms of Spitfires and Messerschmitt 109s play what looks from down here like a deadly game of tag.

For this is not 2012 but 1940; and the Luftwaffe, believing the RAF beaten, has turned its attention from airfields and aircraft factories to industrial cities. But the battle you see overhead is the last of its kind. More than 1,500 aircraft of both sides are engaged in thrusts and parries that will last all day. Fighter Command is strong enough to stop the

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bombers getting through and to inflict heavy losses. From now on the Luftwaffe will give up costly daylight raids and turn instead to night bombing. The Battle of Britain is over. The Blitz has begun. And Britain is safe from invasion. Imagine the relief people must have felt when the Battle of Britain was won and the threat was averted. e : gazette@fsmail.net

Not a bit of it! Operation Sealion had only been postponed, not cancelled. Britain had slaved all summer to strengthen its inadequate defences, and the work had to continue at the same breakneck pace. There was still, as General Brooke noted in his diary, the danger that Hitler had a surprise to spring: invasion fever had to be maintained! With hindsight it’s clear that there never was much actual danger. Hitler’s tiny navy, his landing-craft improvised from Rhine barges, his air force of tactical bombers and short-range fighters, his negligible logistical tail, could never have mounted a large-scale amphibious operation against an enemy that grew stronger by the day. But to Churchill, maintaining the fear of invasion was essential in order to head off the peace party led by his Foreign Secretary, Lord Halifax. Under Chamberlain, Halifax had already approached Mussolini to act as an intermediary with Hitler; in the Cabinet meetings of May 1940, even as the Dunkirk evacuations were beginning, he proposed to try again and was only very narrowly defeated. Churchill believed that peace would mean virtual slavery. Popular enthusiasm for the war had to be kept up at all costs. He was first buoyed by a surge of 1,500,000 volunteers for the Home Guard, formed on 14th May only four days after he took office; but Dunkirk, the Italian declaration of war on 10th June, and the French armistice on 22nd June weakened his hand. His answer was to mobilise Britain and keep it mobilised. The south and east coasts were mined and wired. “Nonessential” civilians were evacuated from Kent and Essex. Romney Marsh was flooded. 28,000 concrete pill-boxes and

50,000 “fougasses” (petrol-based IEDs), were installed along 50 “stop lines” formed of hundreds of miles of antitank ditches 18ft deep and 11ft wide. Sockets just big enough for an anti-tank mine were dug in road surfaces. Bridges were wired and road-signs removed. The pace kept up well into 1941 when local invasion committees were formed and flame barrages were developed to defend the beaches. People watched the work going on and if the defences were real, then the threat must be too. Only in June 1941 when Hitler attacked Russia were invasion preparations scaled down. But it’s odd to reflect, all these years later, that Corporal Jones’s trusty cold steel was aimed not so much at Hitler as Lord Halifax. Picture : Heinkel HE 111 during the Battle of Britain

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02:00 12:12 17:53 22:44 .. JOY LOVE .. HOPE 63