Issue 75 - West End

May - mid-June 2013 Issue 75 - Free magazine

A Look Inside... Motoring: Porsche Panamera GTS Gardening: Fencing pretty Interiors: Budget Bathrooms Beauty: The perfect blow dry

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Local people - local business

A note from Sue...

Road at Cults and whilst there you could pop into the Jack Tierney gallery and celebrate their first anniversary with them. They also have flowers from Lilyloft available every weekend!

What a busy six weeks I’ve had! Meeting new advertisers, having an amazing set of treatments at Kumiko, dancing and an exciting new project is in the pipeline for June/July! Now there are a few events on just as the magazines are delivered so I need you to hop along to Easter Anguston farm on 11 and 12 May and celebrate their Spring Fayre – it looks set to be a fantastic weekend of fun. Those that enjoy a wee walk then there is still a few spaces for the Bling Fling. An easy walk along the railway line followed by a party back at the Duthie Park! Broomhill are having their School Fair too. There is the Cults Scouts Jumble, lots of nice music at Cults Parish Church and that’s just a brief roundup of what’s on! I popped along to meet Helena at Eighty7 Design & Living, the new shop at Countesswells. Ooh she does have some lovely things! And if you are in need of a quirky Father’s Day gift then definitely worth a look. If you like a pampering - then Boutique Beauty is now open on North Deeside

Are you taking part in a “challenge” this year? Why not send us in your story with a photo and we’ll print the best ones! Lee Donald is training a team of lads for an amazing challenge later this year. It is a gruelling assault course down in the Scottish Borders. Ride the North will take you on a beautiful cycle thru the highlands from Inverness to Aberdeen, you don’t have to do it for a specific charity; you can just do it for fun! Wishing all the students well with their forthcoming exams, you’ll do great. I think I’ve told you enough ,so why not go and re-fill your cuppa and enjoy the rest of the magazine. Until the next issue,

Sue

PS: Please can you like our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/gazettemagazines

www.emmadavidsonphotography.co.uk Ad-hoc contributions from : Helen Taylor; James Baggott; Pippa Greenwood; Jane Robinson and Amanda Wise Advertising Sales : Sue Simpson : 01224 - 318561 Distribution - thanks to : Mark; Sue; Carol; Caroline; Gregor; Jodi; Cameron; Kate; Sarah; Fraser; Laura; Freya; David; Maureen & Raymond; Vanessa; Lauren; Sophie; Mary; Benjamin; Glenn; Kate; Alix; Connor; Carter; Laura, Molly, Stephanie, Lois

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

deadline : 29 May - mid-June - July 2013 issue

independent publisher : Sue Simpson

May - mid-June 2013 Issue 75 - Free magazine

A Look Inside... Motoring: Travel: Interiors: Beauty: Technology:

All enquiries :

tel : 01224 - 318561 mob : 07813 964 875

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Bling Fling 5 - book your place for 19 May now

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West End gazette

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12000 West End Homes

thru the letterbox in Airyhall, Ashley, Bieldside, Braeside, Broomhill, Countesswells, Craigiebuckler, Cults, Holburn, Kepplestone Houses, Mannofield, Morningside, Queens Cross, Rubislaw, Seafield, Viewfield, Woodland at Pitfodels, Woodend

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Bring A Party To A Party - Book Your Place At Aberdeen’s Sparkliest Charity Event There are still a few places left at the pinkest and sparkliest event in Aberdeen’s fundraising calendar -the Bling Fling so book your place now!

supporting almost 200 children, young people and adults with learning disabilities and organizers hope that this years' event will help raise even more.

The Bling Fling Tiaras and Trainers Walk is on 19th May -and combines

The event is a celebration of life and friendship so there is a real party feel about the event. We hope that the girls will bring a party to our party so we can celebrate together as well as raise fund.

a 5 or a 10k walk along the Old Deeside Railway Line in trainers, tiaras and as much bling as entrants can muster with a celebratory pamper party after in the Winter Gardens. Since 2009 the event has raised over £250 000 for breast cancer services at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary Aberdeen, equipment and services at the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital and Archway, a local charity

1st Class Footcare

Details of how to register can be found on the event website www.blingfling.org, email enquiries@blingfling.org or telephone 01224 643327. For Further Information Contact : Janine Davies Tel 01224 317060 Email janinedaviespr@hotmail.com enquiries@blingfling.org

1st Class footcare provides specialist podiatry services and treatments . Whether you are just looking for a nail cut or full treatment, 1st Class Footcare is a friendly, professional, mobile foot clinic. This professional service is provided in the comfort of your own home. Our aim is to keep people active and relieve pain. Our treatments include: Nail cut, Corn removal, Callus and hard skin removal, Ingrowning toenails. Contact us for a full list of treatments. Podiatrist is HPC and State Registered. Do not hesitate to contact Janine today on 07586268049.

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spring fayre at

Easter Anguston Farm

Normally, spring means that Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire-based social care charity VSA will take over the city’s Duthie Park with a fun day to raise awareness of the work it does locally, looking after thousands of people, and to celebrate those who have supported the charity over the past year. But this year, the not-for-profit is moving out into the shire and holding the landmark event at its very own Easter Anguston Farm in Peterculter on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 May between 10am and 4pm. The event is free but funds raised on the day will be used directly to support the local community. The 2013 spring fayre at Easter Anguston Farm will be the biggest event held there to date, with more stalls and entertainment than ever. Attractions will include segway experiences, a bouncy castle, face painting, games, jewellery, craft and gift stalls and plenty of refreshments. VSA services will host stalls too, spreading the word about the good they do. There will be external entertainment but also a childrens’ talent show, urging budding singers, dancers and comedians to show their community their hidden abilities. For Easter Anguston, this will be the grand re-opening for summer and its usual attractions – the coffee shop, education centre, farm shop and garden centre – will be in full swing. But, although there will be lots of fun and games, the most important thing about the day is the cause behind it. VSA is the largest charity in the north-east, an umbrella to more than 30 life-changing social care services. VSA supports thousands of the most vulnerable people in the community, reaching out to newborn babies, children with additional support needs, young and adult carers, adults with mental health difficulties and older people. The services include a nursery, school, play schemes, respite, advice, care homes, day care, respite opportunities, a bookshop and, of course, the farm. Easter Anguston is a peaceful spot where adults with learning difficulties get valuable support and training. For the service users, the farm’s meaningful, vocational work can provide security of long-term employment or a stepping stone to the potentially intimidating mainstream job market. And, for visitors, the playful, vibrant atmosphere created by the dedicated staff and service users keeps them coming back time and time again. VSA Day at Easter Anguston Farm will be held on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 May 2012 between 10am and 4pm at Easter Anguston Farm, Peterculter, AB14 0PJ. For further details about the event or to register as a stallholder e-mail debbie.fotheringham@vsa.org.uk, call 01224 358617. For more information about VSA and other events visit www.vsa.org.uk or www.youtube.com/supportvsa Claire McBain VSA Communication and Fundraising Co-ordinator 01224 358611/07808768530 Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

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Mystery House Sponsored Page

Do you have a passion for the English language?*

Future Choices

is a small local charity who provides social inclusion and recreational activities to the disabled community and their carers. It is a charity for disabled and is run by disabled. David Forbes is the most enthusiastic, passionate and excitable Chairperson you could hope for. He has engaged the help of young, local volunteers to help him in his latest appeal called the £1 appeal. Last year, you may remember, the charity were collecting cans to buy a minibus. They achieved this! As they have already outgrown that bus they are now fundraising for a bigger, better bus. The charity is based at Inchgarth Community Centre where seven of the young volunteers and the new face of the charity Christina Daniel (recently crowned Miss Ebony Scotland 2013) will take to the skies in a tandem skydive. Colleen McMillan is the Chief Fundraiser along with Aaron McIntosh. Colleen commented “As a group we are all really excited to do the tandem skydive and are proud to be able to help raise funds for a bigger bus”. The tandem skydive will take place at Errol in Perth shire on Sunday 28 July. The charity needs to raise £25,000 in order to achieve their goal and have been out touring communities at public events in Aberdeen asking for your £1 coins and so far have raised around £1,000. If every household that reads the gazette was to donate £1 they would almost have half the bus bought! If you log onto this website you can boost their funds instantly. Can you spare a £1? https://fundrazr.com/campaigns/dOUOd?sr id=b3f984ef08994e9a99c7e82938cf2b12

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If yes, then maybe you can help! Helping students obtain a mastery and confidence in the English language is a great way to supplement your income by working on an ad hoc basis from home. We are currently seeking host teachers and families to accommodate students for between 1-4 weeks in and around Aberdeen. *Teachers should be EFL or English qualified or hold a degree or national teaching qualification.* The next few years will see an influx of international students of different ages to Aberdeen. Their goal is to immerse themselves in the Scottish way of life and improve their language skills. Aberdeen is proving a popular destination for students who enjoy its cosmopolitan outlook and links with Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms. The students’ welfare is overseen by *Home Language International*, a company that has been providing language courses throughout the world since 1979.

To learn more, please contact

Clare on 07787 858368 or

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Scandinavian Design on our doorstep... Hello, my name is Helena and I have just opened a shop called Eighty7 Design&Living based on Countesswells Road at Seafield. I am originally from Denmark, my husband from Scotland and we settled in Aberdeen in 2005. The Scandinavian design is what I miss most from home, so I decided to introduce Aberdeen to Danish design and that is how Eighty7 Design&Living was established. Finding good quality, beautiful and practical home ware to stock the shop was done by attending design fairs in Stockholm and Birmingham. With this first batch of stock I hope you’ll be able to find an unusual gift or just a little treat for yourself. I have everything from baby shoes to men’s wallets through to wine accessories. Interspersed with the Scandinavian design elements are touches of Scotland. Currently local artists Alice Stuart and Caroline Duncan and local scented candle company ‘Simply Scented’. I also have a quirky range of cards.

NEW DESIGN BOUTIQUE GIFTS • CARDS • KITCHEN • TOYS • HOME • KIDS

Having young children myself I have tried to create a shop which is as child friendly as possible. All breakables being up high, out of reach of little hands, a little toy corner for keeping wee ones occupied and even space for buggies! I do hope you will pop in and see the products for yourself.

68d Countesswells Rd

(OPPOSITE SEAFIELD SHOPS)

01224 311003 info@eighty-7.co.uk

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CHEESE, BACON AND ONION PIE Perfect for a simple lunch or for an early summer picnic this savoury pie has a really rich and buttery crisp pastry and a tasty smoked bacon and onion filling. It tastes just as delicious warm or cold. Look for packs of smoked bacon pieces near the bacon rashers in the supermarket or use flavoursome Italian diced pancetta instead. Makes 8 slices Ready in 1½ hours, plus chilling Ingredients For the pastry 225g plain flour 1 tsp mustard powder Pinch of salt 115g butter, chilled and diced 4-5 tbsp iced water

For the filling 175g smoked bacon pieces 4 onions, peeled and thinly sliced 1 tbsp sunflower oil 200g mature Cheddar cheese, grated Beaten egg, to glaze Tomato salad, to serve (see Tip)

Method

1 To make the pastry, sift the flour into a large bowl and stir in the mustard powder and salt. Add the diced butter and rub into the flour between your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. 2 Stir in enough of the iced water with a round bladed knife to mix to a crumbly dough. Knead very lightly until just smooth then flatten into a disc and wrap in cling film. Chill for 20-25 minutes. 3 Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Dry-fry the bacon pieces in a large non-stick frying pan for 4-5 minutes until just golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Add the oil and sliced onions to the pan and fry gently, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes until the onions are very tender and pale golden. Leave to cool. Preheat the oven to 190°C, 375°F, Gas Mark 5. Place a baking sheet in the oven to heat up. 4 Roll out just over half the pastry on a lightly floured surface and use to line a 20x30cm loose-based fluted flan tin. Layer the bacon, onions and grated cheese in the pastry case and season between the layers with freshly ground black pepper. 5 Roll out the rest of the pastry and use to cover the filling. Seal the edges of the pastry with water then pinch them tightly together with fingertips. Trim off any excess pastry. 6 Brush the pastry with the beaten egg and pierce 3-4 holes in the top of the pie to allow the steam to escape. Bake on the hot baking sheet for 25-30 minutes until the pastry is crisp and golden. Serve warm or cold with tomato salad, if liked.

Tip : Serve simply with a fresh tomato salad made by thickly slicing ripe vine tomatoes and layering with finely chopped spring onions and a few fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with freshly ground black pepper.

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Conferencing? @

fourmile HOUSE KINGSWELLS

Our purpose designed, self-contained multimedia conference suite is the ideal environment to help you realise your business objectives. Packages can be tailored to meet your requirements (delegate rate is ÂŁ25 + vat) and includes the use of all our audiovisual equipment, wi-fi, access to our large breakaway room and the usual excellent catering you would expect from the Fourmile House Kingswells.

Why not book your conference here today? Old Skene Road, Kingswells, Aberdeen, AB15 8QA Tel. 01224 740318 Email. info@fourmile.co.uk follow

www.fourmile.co.uk

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Let’s Talk Wine... L is for Lebanon

With a wine history thought to date back some 7000 years, Lebanon is one of the oldest producing countries in the world. Altitude plays a part and many vineyards sit at around 1000 metres. Lebanon is a small country, its thin Mediterranean coastal strip quickly giving way to the Mount Lebanon range and dipping to the fertile Bekaa Valley before the mountains rise again to form the Anti Lebanon range and signal the Syrian border. Many vineyards are planted on terraces. There are now around 40 wineries in the country, mainly in Bekaa with handful in the north west, coastal influenced region of Batroun. Grapes are mainly French in origin including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Cinsault and often blended. White grapes include Viognier, Chardonnay, Muscat and Sauvignon Blanc. There are some very good roses that are a perfect backdrop to the many flavours of Lebanese dishes. I’m just back from a week long food trek around this captivating country where hospitality is at the heart of the culture. From a simple bowl of nuts to a table heaving with mezze made from the freshest locally sourced produce to chicken shawarma oozing with garlic (no, make that extra garlic) sauce and just landed fish ready for the grill. Wines to try: Chateau Musar – With a history spanning more than 80 years, Chateau Musar is home to iconic red wines with great aging potential. Contact your local independent merchant for available vintages Domaine Des Tourelles Blanc 2011 – a lingering blend of Chardonnay, Muscat and Viognier from Lebanons oldest commercial winery. M& S Chateau Ka, Kadet de Ka 2009- A lovely blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah with spice and dried fruit. M and S Clos St Thomas Pinot Noir 2009 – Based in Bekaa Valley, this is currently Lebanons only single varietal Pinot Noir with intense fruit and a delicate balance. www.lebanesefinewines.eu Ixsir Altitudes Rose 2012 – The state of the art winery is hidden in the hillside beneath the recently renovated 400 year old house. Ixsir wines are distributed in the UK through Enotria Carol Brown To read more about Carols travels, head to www.wineuncorkededucation.co.uk www.tastelebanon.co.uk www.winesoflebanon.co.uk http://www.wineuncorkededucation.co.ukT: 01224 312076 M: 07751 520987 Carol Brown is an Aberdeen based Member of the Association of Wine Educators and the Circle of Wine Writers and hosts a range of courses, workshops, dinners and corporate events.

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Laura Freeland is delighted to announce the opening of her new beauty salon in Cults, where she offers a wide range of treatments. Offering an exciting portfolio of beauty solutions exclusively dedicated to the clients specific requirements. Boutique Beauty would like to introduce Gemma Craig formerly of Ouch Nails & Beauty. Gemma would like to welcome old and new clients to the salon. Treatments Available a a a a a a a a

AH Francis Eyelash Extensions LVL Eyelashes Threading HD Eyebrows Spray Tanning HOPI Ear Candles GELish Nails Shrinking Violet Body Wraps

a a a a a a a

Aromatherapy/Swedish Massage Spa Pedicure Chairs Lycon Waxing Hot Stones Air Base Make-up Microdermabrasion IPL Laser Hair Removal on request

LVL Lashes The LVL treatment is the fastest way to brighten and lift your face by creating a stunning wide eyed look to your natural lashes. Microdermabrasion Microdermabrasion is a system of intense exfoliation and resurfacing using ultra-fine crystals that rejuvenate the skin. Lycon Hot Wax Lycon is a wax treatment without using strips. It is less painful and removes hair effectively, causing less irritation to the skin. AH Francis Eyelash Extensions Are for giving classic beauty and sophistication with both length and volume. Spa Pedicure Chairs Relaxing and massaging your back while your feet soak in a whirlpool spa. Pamper your feet with style. Hot Stones Are black volcanic rocks, rich in iron, having innate ability to absorb and retain heat that can be used to relieve stress and tension in muscles and enhance circulation. The positive effects of a hot stone massage are countless. On the physical aspect of the body it does wonders in muscle and deep tissue relaxation.

Boutique Beauty T: 01224 869500

373 North Deeside Road, Cults, Aberdeen AB15 9SX Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

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The North East Open Studios (NEOS) NEOS is an award winning collective of artists, makers and galleries based in the North East of Scotland, formed in 2003 to help the public access the wealth of creative talent throughout the area, winning the Northern Lights Tourism Award 2007 for best Aberdeenshire Tourism Initiative. The open studios is run on voluntary grounds as a community organisation and serves to engage wider audiences in all aspects of art; to grow small-scale art and craft business in the north east of Scotland and to provide a cohesive network of professional artists and makers. If you are an artist, maker or gallery owner and would like further information about NEOS, please take a look at out website www.northeastopenstudis.co.uk or sign up to our mailing list to ensure you don’t miss a thing. The NEOS dates for this year is the 7th - 29th of September. It’ll be broken down into 3 weeks of; North - 7th - 15th Central - 14th - 22nd and South and City - 21st - 29th. The weekends all overlap so there’s even more time for visitors to see everything.

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Blown Away

- a Salon Blow-Dry at Home

You can’t beat the feeling when you leave the hairdressers with a perfectly blow-dried mane that’s glossy, bouncy and completely glamorous. There’s no doubt that when your hair looks great you feel fantastic, but as we’re all trying to cut down on our monthly spend these days, it can be hard to justify visits to your stylist in between your regular cut and colour.

hair’s needs and select products that will work with your hair to achieve the look you want. If your hair is dry, brittle and straw-like, you’ll need a shampoo and conditioner that will add much-needed moisture to your locks, leaving them

Photo credit: Racoon International

So, because we don’t want you to compromise on looking and feeling good, we’ve compiled a guide that will help you to achieve a professionallooking blow-dry at home - saving you a trip to the hairdressers and some extra cash.

By Helen Taylor

manageable and supple when you come to style your hair. Coloured hair - particularly red shades, as they fade so fast requires a specialist shampoo and conditioner that won’t strip away your hue, but will instead pamper it and prolong the time between colours. It is worth investing in quality products for your hair, because cheap shampoos tend to contain harsh ingredients that strip the natural oils and remove your

Wash and Go It’s really important to think carefully before buying shampoo and conditioner. You need to assess your

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artificial colour in no time. Although you pay a lot more at the time of purchase, you’ll find that good shampoos and conditioners last a lot longer, because you don’t need to use so much of them. Be prepared not to see much lather when you wash though; professional products don’t behave the same way as cheaper versions, because their ingredients are better. Always ask your stylist for advice - they know the products they sell well. Because they use them every day, on all different hair types, they’ll know what will work best for yours. Ready to Blow Once you’ve washed your hair, wrap it in a towel and leave it for a short time, so that it’s damp rather than dripping wet when you start to dry it. Don’t be tempted to rub your hair with the towel, as this encourages frizz and can cause damage; instead, gently squeeze out the moisture. Next, lightly brush through your hair using a good brush natural bristles are best. Keep an eye on plastic varieties, because over time plastic bristles tend to break and can snag and pull at your hair, resulting in split ends and damage. Remember that your tresses are at their weakest when wet, so take time to detangle the lengths and don’t be tempted to pull. If you find that your

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locks are prone to knotting, use a detangling spray to make the process easier. Section your hair using clips, even if it’s relatively short. This allows you to move systematically through your lengths. Start at the bottom of your hair first, moving to the top of your head last. Whilst your hair is damp apply a little oil or serum to the lengths and ends of each section to lock in moisture and add much-needed shine. Dry Like a Professional Using a round barrel brush this helps to create volume and lift - start drying the first section, roots first. Keep your dryer about six inches away from your scalp, so that the heat isn’t too intense. Use your brush to grip and pull hair taut in the direction you want it to go. If your hair is very fine or weak, use a cooler setting on your dryer so that you minimise the damage caused by the heat. A thermal protecting spray will help to safeguard your locks too. Whatever your hair type, always remember to use a good quality heat protecting product when straightening or curling your tresses.

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Direct the air from your dryer downwards - the nozzle will help with this - to create a smooth, sleek finish. Don’t move on to the next section of your hair until each is completely dry your stylist would never let you leave the salon with even a slightly damp mane. Be sure to keep moving your dryer, as leaving heat concentrated on one area for too long will frazzle your locks. Set and add shine to your blow-dry by finishing off with a cool blast of air from your dryer. And, if you want your tresses to look even shinier, add a little more serum or oil to your finished style. Hairspray will keep your blowdry in place all day long, but use it sparingly for a modern look.

Looking for a Relaxed atmosphere Personal attention Weddings our speciality

Tel : 322000 Devonair Hairstylists 2 Devonshire Road Aberdeen (off St Swithin St)

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Want to get fit and have fun? We all know we should exercise more, but there always seems to be a good reason to start next week… Whatever your excuse is, Friskis&Svettis is the answer!  The Friskis&Svettis mission is to provide fun and effective classes to everyone, regardless of age or ability.  Our exercise to music classes incorporate stamina, strength, balance, flexibility and relaxation to create an all-round work out.  We have classes all over Aberdeen and the surrounding areas at different levels of intensity to suit your abilities.  There is no booking, just come along and pay as you go.  Our classes are an hour long and range from just £3-4.

So come along and try something new, get fit and have fun too! For more information, class lists and videos visit :

www.fsaberdeen.co.uk or www.facebook.com/fsaberdeen

Human Body

Bladder Brain Carpals Clavicle Coccyx Femur Fibula Heart Humerus Intestines Jaw Liver Lungs Metatarsals Pancreas Radius

Ribs Sacrum Scapula Skin Spleen Sternum Stomach Tibia Vertebra

Find the names of the human body in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase

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Perfect Posture by Julia Faulks Slumping at our desks and hunching our shoulders as we walk are hard habits to break, especially as we age and there’s no one there to tell us to ‘stand up straight!’ Here’s how to perfect your posture… As a nation we spend hours on our phones, laptops and in front of the TV, so it’s fair to say that posture is often the last thing on our mind. However, years of bending, twisting, slumping on the sofa or hauling heavy bags around, could take their toll and end up damaging your spine. Posture isn’t just about how you sit, but also affects the way you stand, lie down or move around. Bad posture can lead to back pain, repetitive strain injuries and may even worsen existing medical conditions. If you’re having a baby you need to be even more careful as pregnancy hormones will temporarily loosen your ligaments. Many of us will just sit back and accept the nagging aches and pains we feel throughout the day, whether we’re at our desks or on our feet for long periods. But making vital changes to the way you look after your posture could save you problems further down the line. Ergonomics (the posh name for posture) doesn’t have to be as

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complicated as it sounds it’s just about supporting your back and reducing the strain that comes from aligning your body incorrectly. When sitting at a desk you can avoid bending awkwardly and straining muscles simply by readjusting your chair or positioning your keyboard and mouse in the right position. Invest in some posture-friendly props, such as wrist or foot rests, as well as an ergonomic chair. Avoid holding your phone between your neck and shoulder, carrying a heavy bag on one shoulder, slumping forward in your chair, or slouching and hunching your shoulders over. It’s worth remembering that good posture doesn’t just bring physical benefits - you will look and feel more confident and attractive when you stand up straight and proud. Some people even claim that good posture can knock pounds off (sadly, this is just a visual illusion, but hey, it’s far easier than dieting). It’s also important to regularly exercise – walking and swimming are two easy activities that will help keep your spine healthy and your muscles in good shape.

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Forget walking around the house with a book balancing on your head - the next time you feel yourself drooping, remember these basic tips: 1. Keep both of your feet flat on the floor when sitting – if you can’t reach the floor, use a footrest. 2. Make sure your back is resting against the back of the chair and avoid leaning forward. 3. As you walk, keep the weight on the balls of your feet, not your heels. 4. Don’t lock your knees and wear supportive footwear. 5. Stand up, have a stretch or go for a walk.

If you’re experiencing back ache or any other aches and pains that won’t go away it’s always a good idea to have it checked out by your doctor. You may also decide to search for a local osteopath who can decide what treatment you may need and give you some exercises that you can carry out at home.

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5000 flyers?

full colour 135gsm double-sided A5 size

ÂŁ120 for 5000 (within 7 working days) ÂŁ135 for 5000 (within 3 working days) Call Sue : 318561

Confidence Weight Management Anxiety Post Traumatic Stress Eating Disorder Habits Insomnia IBS Depression Motivation Addictions Dental Phobia Obsessional Compulsive Disorder Panic Attacks Sports Achievement Anti-Smoking Anger Management Hypnotic Gastric Band

Brain Based Solution

Focused Hypnotherapy

(Moving from problem to solution - making positive changes)

Sam Luxford RGN RMN DHP HPD MNCH(Reg) CNHC Registered Therapist Solution Focused Clinical Hypnotherapist & Psychotherapist Fully qualified and Accredited

23 Rubislaw Den North, Aberdeen, AB154AL M: 07867 936 505 T: 01224-329089 sam@aberdeenhypnotherapy.com www.aberdeenhypnotherapy.com Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

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a year rising to over £38,000 for nursing home fees. Here are some tips that will enable you to start planning for the future.

The longest holiday Most of us shy away from considering our later years and what they might bring. There may be the joy of watching our family grow and develop with grandchildren, great nephews and nieces, but understandably we do not like the idea of becoming incapacitated. However, we should start thinking about what can be termed as the “longest holiday” of our lives sooner rather than later, as it is now clear that the government will not be funding the ongoing costs of any care that might be required.

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The reason for the government’s stance becomes clear when examining some of the facts. According to statistics from the Office for National Statistics, the average percentage of people over 65 in 1992 was 15.8%. By the year 2033, estimates show that this figure will have increased to 22.9%. As the state is not going to assist in any meaningful form regarding ongoing care needs, we need to consider the cost of buying care as this is also rising. For example, maintaining professional quality care in one’s own home is now running at around £13.68 per hour. Furthermore, full time basic fees in a care home now average at just over £27,000

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1. Check your pensions, ensuring that you have current information for all of them. 2. Complete a BR19 form and send it off for a State Pension assessment. The reason for this, particularly for women, is that it will be assumed that your NI contributions would have continued if you had not stopped work in order to care for your children. However, the benefits agencies will not know of this and your past situation unless you inform them. Taking this action will enhance your state pension benefits. 3. Realistically consider what your ISAs and other savings might be worth. Monitor your investments regularly with a professional adviser. e : gazette@fsmail.net

4. Think about when your mortgage will be repaid, along with any other commitments. Put income that you have released, when loans are repaid, towards ISAs and pensions for your future.

authority means testing when you qualify for care. 7. Review your Wills and the position regarding inheritance tax.

5. Start thinking of your house as a commodity that might have to be used to fund care needs in the future.

8. Review whether any property you own are as Tenants In Common or under Joint Tenancy as this is important in this arena of planning (Scottish law varies in this regard).

6. Consider a special form of trust to ring fence the equity of your house. This can protect your home from local

9. Seek independent financial advice from an appropriately qualified professional, and appoint an adviser on a

Margaret Waite Tel no: 07764 168 873 margaret@mwaitemortgages.com

fee basis to advise you.

The facts before us may not be favourable and planning for our longest holiday may take many years to achieve. Although our finances might be under pressure at this time, doing something now is going to be better than doing nothing. Arwyn Bailey is a former financial adviser of almost 18 years, and he is now a freelance journalist, photographer and author. His latest novel is entitled Candelaro. You can learn more about Arwyn at: http://gponlinephotos.com and: http:// themoneyartist.com

June Hodge Tel no 07715 454 165 junehodge@btinternet.com

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19

bathroom fittings in standard sizes. Simply use tiles, taps and accessories to create an elegant and upmarket effect. Remember that not all whites are quite the same shade however so make sure they match.

Budget Bathrooms Big ideas, small budget? It is possible to have a beautiful bathroom without spending a fortune. Katherine Sorrell outlines her top tips.

• www.gooddealdirectory. co.uk for factory shops, seconds shops and permanent discount outlets nationwide; for listings of shopping villages, outlet stores and factory shops, go to www.shoppingvillages.com.

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• Plan carefully so that you avoid moving existing plumbing. By putting the bath, basin, WC, shower and any radiators in the same position you can keep • Choose simple white installation costs down. The same en Carpe e WE WILL TAKE THE rd applies to STRESS OUT OF YOUR existing HOME IMPROVEMENTS doors, and supply all the services to see the job through start to finish windows and built-in features such Our promise: as cupboards To provide our customers with the highest standards of quality, or radiators. efficiency and professionalism

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GSI? If you do some of the work yourself, it will save money. Know your limitations, however. Tiling and painting are straightforward and even plastering or putting down flooring can be tackled by a competent DIYer. If in doubt, however, call someone in and, when it comes to electrics, remember that there are strict safety regulations controlling what work may be carried out by a non-professional. Search for a qualified electrician at www.eca. co.uk or www.niceic. com. • Fitting a new shower? Know your water supply system and make sure you choose a shower that will work with it. If your water pressure is low, for example, you’ll need to choose a type that can cope with this; otherwise you’ll have to install a pump as well. • A radiator that doubles as a towel rail will save you buying the two items separately, or simply attach a towel holder

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(such as a plain chrome pole from any DIY retailer) above your existing radiator. • To avoid the labour cost of removing old tiles and replastering the wall, it is often possible to tile over the existing tiles. • When putting in new tiles, save by only covering specific areas: perhaps up to half-height around the room, or else just the splash backs next to the bath and basin. Use paint everywhere else. • Instead of pricey stone or marble wall or floor tiles, find a look-alike made from ceramic or porcelain. They are widely available, attractive, stain-resistant, light (and therefore easy to lay) and should cost noticeably less than the real thing. • If you love expensive mosaic tiles, limit them to small areas, or else combine them with plainer tiles as a border or insets.

Design

free-standing storage such as trolleys, chests, cupboards or baskets. Captions Heywood double vanity unit with sink and tap, in natural, £699, Heywood tall boy, in natural, £300, both John Lewis (08456 049 049; johnlewis.com)

Rather than installing a blind or having your windows sandblasted, use glass etching spray or stick-on film to ensure your privacy. These days, the latter comes in a wide range of patterns, from plain frosted to your own bespoke designs. • Custombuilt, fitted storage can be expensive. Instead, choose standard-sized, off-the-peg units or else combine a simple set of shelves with

Jasper Morrison close coupled WC suite, £268; slow close seat, £105; 50cm basin with pedestal, £200; Synergy 800mm corner infold door, £502; Trevi Oposta, includes shower valve and multi-function shower kit, £580; all Bathrooms 365 (01454 417111; bathrooms365.com) Fish shower curtain, £15; white weave waste bin, £19.50; bath bridge, £25; Egyptian supersoft towels, from £6; stripe bath mat, £15; soap dispenser, £9.50; tumbler, £7.50; Fish bath towel, £9.50; mirror, £19.50; ceramic lines vase, £29.50; all Marks & Spencer (0845 302 1234; marksandspencer.com)

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The Swatchmaker is a small haberdashery shop in Laurencekirk, Kincardineshire, Scotland. It was opened in December 2012 by husband and wife team John and Emma Phethean after they moved to the town (pop. 3,500) in March 2012, purchasing the shop and neighbouring house together. The well-attended shop opening ceremony was part of a late night business event run by Laurencekirk Business Club.

The shop supplies a range of knitting and sewing yarns and threads as well as craft tools and other craft accessories. There is also a vintage / retro section featuring clothes and kitsch items. The shop also provides an outlet for local crafters and businesses to sell and advertise their handmade goods. Emma Phethean has a background in Fine Arts (BA in Photographic Electronic Media from Robert Gordon University Gray’s School of Art 2010) and retail (shop manager at Barnardo’s). Husband John has run his own graphic and website design business Pave Graphics for 8 years, supplying a wide range of creative design and print management services for companies all over Scotland and beyond. Together they did all the work decorating and preparing the unit, which used to be a watchmaker, clock repair and jeweller’s shop for almost 80 years. The name ‘Swatchmaker’ was chosen to retain the unit’s heritage, and the logo came from an old hand-painted glass panel found in the loft upstairs. The expanded shop area at Number 34a on Laurencekirk’s High Street will accommodate an extensive haberdashery display, as well as a space to host evening craft classes and workshops; and the upgraded website features include an online store shipping worldwide, a craft blog and events calendar. www.swatchmaker.com

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MBC Festival 2013 The Art Exhibition will again be the first event of the 2013 Festival and will be held in the Phoenix Centre, Newton Dee on 24th and 25th August. Also taking place over this first weekend will be a Family Fun Day at St. Devenick's Church on Sat. 24th. On Sun. 25th the Cults Bowling Club will hold their Open Day and in the evening the Atholl Smith Jazz Band return to play in Cults Parish Church.

All eye examinations covered by NHS Optical Coherence Tomography for early diagnosis of Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration and Retinal Conditions. Digital Retinal Photography Visual Field Analysis Emergency Eye Appointments Large range of Designer frames and specialised spectacle lenses Accredited by RACH for Children’s Eye Examinations

Home Visits Free Car parking Open Late night Tuesday - 7pm & Saturday - 4pm Scott Gilmour BSc (Hons) MCOptom

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

On Monday 26th, Cults Tennis Club will hold an Open Evening for anyone who would like to join in a game of tennis. Last year the 'Weddings Gone By...' exhibition in Cults Parish Church was a great success. This year the theme will be 'Christenings' and the Exhibition will be open from 29th Aug. to 1st Sept. There will also be a Coffee Morning on Saturday, 31st in the Church Hall. Songs of Praise with the Northfield Community Band will be in St.Devenick's Church on Sun. 1st Sept. Dance and Fitness will feature in the second week with taster sessions in American Square Dancing, International Dance and Keep Fit 55+. This is just a taste of what will be on a programme of events still in the planning stage. The full, detailed programme on Posters and Flyers in the Library, Shops and Businesses in the Milltimber, Bieldside and Cults area in August. We hope you will come along and support your local Festival.

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DREAM IT, BELIEVE IT... ACHIEVE IT!

Despite always being active, getting my black belt in Karate age 13, reveling in sports day at school, becoming a watersports instructor and living for every Winter when I could get on my skis/ snowboard, I wasn’t always so ‘healthy’ or indeed trim. I started smoking at a young age. I was also that person who had the annoying ‘puppy fat’ growing up and as I got older my weight fluctuated. I drank alcohol more or less every w/e and at one point consumed it daily.

weight which I’m now in control of. I turned 31 in March and I’m the fittest, healthiest and happiest I’ve ever been chronologically I may be dying but I’ve never felt so alive! The results of hardwork, commitment and consistent small changes made on a daily basis. This is what I offer my Personal Training clients and Bodymaxers. The chance to make positive changes to their lives so they not only look and feel their best but also to improve their overall sense of wellbeing. Life is for living after all! I’m a firm believer if you want something bad enough you’ll find a way...if not you’ll find an excuse which has lead me to

In the pictures you can see that one shows the results of what excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and poor diet can do (regardless of having a nice tan!). The other unfortunately doesn’t show the full extent of how much ‘healthier’ I am not only physically but also mentally. I quit smoking in Feb 2010 and ‘if’ I indulge in a drink at the w/e, it’s definitely not the Friday/Saturday binge that it used to be! My clean eating has also allowed me to achieve and maintain a ‘healthy’

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where I am today. On the 26th May 2013 my business, Lee Donald Personal Training will officially be 2years old. I literally began with one client and through hard work and riding a big learning curve, my business has consistently grown. Daily challenges came in every

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direction and being selfemployed unfortunately voids you of the luxury of having someone to show you the way. Personal Trainer, Bodymax Instructor, Marketing Manager, Website Designer, Equipment Buyer, Nutrition and Fitness Researcher, Weekly Monday Email Writer, Article Producer and Accountant - they were and are all my job titles! Decisions were tough and perhaps not always right but failure is a natural process on the way to success and learning from those mistakes made my business (and me) even stronger. 2 years later, I’m now at my full client capacity and have a growing waiting list. After only a couple of months of training my very first client, I took a big chance and decided to start a fitness class too. I needed to create something that no other Personal Trainer, Fitness Instructor or class was offering so I designed a unique fitness class called Bodymax which began in July 2011 with simply friends and family. (This launched as an Exclusive Ladies Only Fitness Class in 2013) Bodymax initially only ran on a Wednesday and even though I had a maximum capacity of 20 - I was only hitting about 16 max. Thanks to Bodymax’s unique and fun approach to helping e : gazette@fsmail.net

Standing in front of a mirror and feeling comfortable with my reflection seemed impossible.... But it WASN’T impossible and that’s what I here to help people to realize.

people lose weight, tone up, improve their overall fitness and achieve their goals, the buzz about Bodymax began to spread...exercise should not be boring! Again through hard work, learning by mistakes and driven by passion, success and motivation to make a difference to people’s lives Bodymax now runs twice a week and is regularly at its maximum capacity. To add to this, my company also takes part in various events from Northsound 1 ‘Cash for Kids’ charity events to The Scottish Wedding Directory’s wedding events. My business is constantly developing and growing but more importantly so is my health, fitness and happiness. I know what it feels like to be overweight, a smoker, drinker, struggle to get up a flight of stairs without gasping for breath, feeling embarrassed because I had thinner friends, feeling out of control with my eating and deleting pictures on my phone/camera because of how I looked.

My success in my personal and business life has taken time and been hard work but if you believe it then you can achieve it - there’s no age limit for success! This year I’m leading an allmale team through an event that considered possibly the toughest on the planet - Tough Mudder. The event on the 24th August this year in Dalkeith and all proceeds go to Help for Heroes.

You can view all details of the event at www.toughmudder.com To help raise money and donate towards this worthy cause, please click on the link below and fill in a few details: www.raceit.com/fundraising/ donate.aspx?event=16565&fun draiser=r7552958 It’s all the small changes that make the bigger picture and everybody has to start somewhere. So my advice to anyone who feels like I did before I found fitness and Personal Training is that you only need to take one day at a time but MAKE IT COUNT! If I can do it – YOU can do it!

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BUST THAT BODYFAT LOVE YOUR BODY ROCK YOUR LBD! Summerhill Church (Outdoors Weather Permitting)

Wed: 6.30-7.30pm Fri: 6.00-7.00pm Contact Lee: 07510054788 Lee Donald-Elite www.leedonaldpersonaltraining.com

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25

Porsche Panamera GTS by James Baggott

It’s the Noel Edmonds of the car world: Some love his fuzzy patch of facial hair, while others detest his banker-bothering ways. Much like the Panamera. OK, not a lot like the Panamera, but you get my point, sort of. This baboon-bottomed, supersized porker isn’t for everyone. It’s big, brash and in your face – and this jazzed up GTS version is even more raucous. But is it too jazzy? We find out... What is it? It’s Porsche’s executivetransporting-super-giant machine with added fizz-bangwallop. The GTS sits below the Turbo, but is still ludicrously swift for a car and as long as your average P&O ferry. Slightly harder, sportier and more involving, the GTS is for punting pen-pushers to the office with a bit more vigour and involvement. What’s under the bonnet? Under its Bergerac-esque conk is an utterly brilliant 4.8-litre lump lifted from the Panamera S. In GTS guise, it gets a bit more stomp – up 30bhp to 424bhp with torque at 520Nm. This is mated to a brilliant, self-shifting seven-speed ‘box which makes for rapid getaways. Despite its bulk, it will rival a BMW M5 in

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the 0-60mph sprint, covering it in 4.5s whilst going on to hit 174mph top whack. What’s the kit like? Suitably impressive, but like all Porsches you’ll pay through the nose for it. This test model had a whopping £15,159 worth of options on it. The red paint cost £2,517 alone, then there’s £3,197 for the dynamic chassis control and torque vectoring plus ceramic brakes cost a scary £5,924. You even pay £295 for the heated seats. Any rivals? Oh, you betcha. All premium manufacturers have a rival or two. BMW could flog you an M5 or a 7 Series, Audi has an S8 (which is awesome), Jaguar an XJ probably in R trim. And Mercedes would no doubt sell you something slightly duller like an S Class. But what you really want from them is something with an AMG badge. Anyway, you get our point – there’s lots of choice. Is it any good? In a word, yes. I was thinking of ending things there, but that wouldn’t have been much of a review. The GTS is quite possibly the best Panamera available. It’s rapid, incredibly entertaining,

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engaging to drive and sounds fiery. There are three driving modes, but I can’t remember them all as the only one you really want is Sport Plus. It sounds better, it goes quicker and the steering feels crisp. On the road, the four wheel drive makes it feel planted and it’s one of the comfiest cars over distance I’ve tried for a long time. The verdict I want one... and I wouldn’t have said that about a Panamera before I drove the GTS version. For someone who likes involvement in their daily drive, but comfort to boot, the GTS ticks a lot of boxes. The looks won’t float everyone’s boat, but they certainly grew on me over my week with the barge. However, you’re going to need pretty deep pockets to enjoy this Porsche as the options alone cost more than three Dacia Sandero’s! But I know which I’d rather have on the driveway.

The Knowledge

Model: Porsche Panamera GTS Price: £91,239 Engine: 4.8-litre, V8 Power: 430bhp, 520Nm Max speed: 179mph 0-62mph: 4.5s MPG (comb’d): 25.9

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Jack Tierney

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gallery

Emissions: 256g/km

The Jack Tierney gallery celebrates its 1st Anniversary on Saturday 1st June 2013. This special occasion gives us the opportunity to thank our most valued customers and artists for their support and encouragement throughout the year. To mark our celebrations, Hilary Gauci, a renowned Still Life artist will exhibit alongside Val Thomson an emerging artist who shares her passion for the land and sea within this combined exhibition entitled Reflections. There will be a preview exhibition on Friday 31st May and celebrations will continue into Saturday 1st June with refreshments and fun for all the family. This is a great opportunity to come and see our unique range of art, ceramics, jewellery, glass, sculpture, and innovative up-cycled items. The gallery opened last year with a collection by Peter Howson, one of Scotland’s leading artists and over the past year we have displayed work by a staggering 80 artists from America, France, Holland, Ireland, New Zealand, UK and Russia. Everyone is welcome at Jack Tierney Gallery where we strive to deliver a diverse display of artwork in a relaxed and friendly environment. You can keep up with exhibition and gallery news at www.jacktierneygallery.com

JACK TIERNEY GALLERY

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Two day challenge ride for all abilities.

CYCLE INVERNESS TO ABERDEEN THROUGH THE GRAMPIAN HIGHLANDS. 30-31 AUGUST 2013 INVERNESS

Looking for a challenge?

ABERD

EEN

it’s no ta r Getainto ce – ithe t’s agarage and dust off your bike! In fact put it in forchaafull MOT! You are about to go on a challenge that will llenge f o r all! you in the shower beauty • natural Cycle 164 miles over 2that days is the NE of Scotland!

Did you know cycling is the• fastest growing sport in the • UK? Aberdeen Registration Fee £99 (plus boasts booking a very fee). This does not include any active cycling community donation to our partners at Maggie’s. • Putand your efforts and raise clubs one to ofgood theuse biggest

Loch Maltfrom Whisky Trail NE Ness, by cycling Inverness and Castles to Aberdeen through the Great scenery Grampian on quiet picturesque back-roads Highlands. In 2011 they had Refreshment & Coffee stops 37 participants, in 2012 it money for a great cause! along was the 106 route and in 2013 they are in the UK. There are big expecting over 300. cycling events in Perthshire, Central Belt & Borders, but The emphasis is on the now there is one to bring challenge … it’s NOT a cyclists to the NE. race, it’s a fun, sociable and challenging ride, covering Ride the North, now in its 164 miles over two days. third year is joining up the

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You do not have to do it for a charity or support the charity • Full support and bag transfer that Ride the North is linked • Support with - this yearMaggie’s, Maggie’s. your own charity or ride for fun But if you are going to set • Finish historic Drum yourself thisatchallenge then Castle why not do it for something that you are passionate about? Let’s get ride-thenorth on the cycle map. www.ride-the-north.co.uk e : gazette@fsmail.net

Two day challenge ride for all abilities.

CYCLE INVERNESS TO ABERDEEN THROUGH THE GRAMPIAN HIGHLANDS. 30-31 AUGUST 2013 INVERNESS

ABERD

EEN

it’s no t race – a i challe t’s a nge for all ! Registration Fee £99 (plus booking fee). This does not include any donation to our partners at Maggie’s. Put your efforts to good use and raise money for a great cause!

• • • •

Cycle 164 miles over 2 days Loch Ness, Malt Whisky Trail and Castles Great scenery on quiet back-roads Refreshment & Coffee stops along the route

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The ‘sociable cycle event of the year’

• • •

Full support and bag transfer Support Maggie’s, your own charity or ride for fun Finish at historic Drum Castle

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www.ride-the-north.co.uk

Keep Your Kitchen Safe This article covers how to keep safe while cooking, plus what to do if a fire starts in your kitchen. Take the following steps to make the kitchen a safe place.

Cooker

Keep electrical leads well away from the cooker. Don’t hang tea towels or cloths on or over the cooker. Keep the oven, hob and grill clean. A build-up of fat and food residue can start a fire. Microwave Don’t put anything metallic inside the microwave. Don’t dry clothes in the microwave.

Electrical

Keep electrical leads away from water. Don’t put a plant pot or anything wet on top of an electrical appliance. Keep toasters well away from curtains and under kitchen cabinets. Don’t overload sockets; one plug per socket is the rule, especially if the appliance takes a lot of power (like a kettle). Don’t run extension cables across the floor as they can become worn.

Electrical appliances

Don’t leave appliances such as washing machines or dishwashers on at night. Is the kettle leaking? This can be dangerous.

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Ventilation Make sure your ventilation is adequate for the room especially if you have a gas cooker or boiler in the kitchen.

Protection

Buy a smoke alarm fitted with a “hush button” so if it goes off accidentally you can silence it instantly and won’t be tempted to remove the battery. If your alarm keeps going off unnecessarily, you may need to move it further away from the kitchen entrance.

Cooking Safely

The most important point about cooking is to avoid being distracted. Most kitchen fires occur when people leave things unattended. If you’re called away from the cooker, take pans off the heat. It’s the easiest thing in the world to forget about them. Don’t cook if you’re affected by alcohol or prescription drugs. Turn saucepan handles so they don’t stick out where they can be accidentally knocked. Keep the oven door shut. Don’t put oven gloves or tea towels down on the cooker. Always clean the grill pan after using it.

Deep Fat Frying

Deep fat fryers fires cause one fifth of all accidental dwelling fires attended by the Fire and Rescue Service in the UK each year, killing or injuring about 20 people every day. When you’re deep

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fat frying remember you are heating several pints of oil to extremely high temperatures. Oil can cause terrible burns and go up in flames. In fact, it’s an ideal fuel for a fire, and difficult to put out. Never fill a deep fat fryer more than a third full of oil. The safest way to deep fry is to use a thermostatcontrolled electric deep fat fryer which stops it from overheating; better still choose oven chips. Never leave your cooking unattended, even if the phone or doorbell rings. Remember, fires start when your attention stops. Dry your food in a clean tea towel before putting it in the fryer because water can make the oil erupt violently. Test the temperature with a small piece of bread or potato. If it crisps quickly, the oil is too hot so turn off the heat and leave it to cool. If there are flames, never throw water over the pan as it will erupt violently spreading the fire. If you’ve consumed alcohol, do not be tempted to cook with a chip pan. Dealing with a Fire in the Kitchen The Fire Service usually recommends that if you have a fire in the kitchen, don’t take any risks, get everyone out of your home and call the Fire and Rescue Service. If you’re not sure you can handle the fire or if it is spreading from its starting point then it is almost certainly already too big and you should leave the e : gazette@fsmail.net

building. If you cannot deal with the fire, close the door on the way out, and call 999. If it is a deep fat fryer If a pan of food or chip pan catches fire do not attempt to remove from the stove, as it could give you terrible burns. Turn off the heat if it is safe to do so; switch off the supply at the meter if necessary. Never throw water over it. Don’t use a general fire extinguisher on a pan filled with oil or fat. The ONLY fire extinguishers safe for deep fat fryers are wet chemical extinguishers, special ABF classed extinguishers and ‘dry’ water mist extinguishers! Never use traditional foam or powder extinguishers on burning fat or oil.

If you use wet chemical extinguishers, make sure you empty the entire content of the extinguisher on the oil, even if the flames have been doused already! This prevents re-ignition. Leave the pan to cool completely. Dial 999 and call the Fire and Rescue Service If electric appliances are involved Pull the plug out or switch off power at the fuse box. This may stop the fire immediately. Smother the fire with a fire blanket, or use a carbon dioxide extinguisher if available. ‘Dry’ water mist extinguishers and foams can be used as well if they have been tested to 35kV.

Dial 999 and call the Fire and Rescue Service Additional information can be found at the following websites. http://www. firesafe.org.uk/fires-in-the-kitchen/ and http://www.dontgivefireahome.com Mark Wood, Scott MacRory, Andy Roome Blue Watch, North Anderson Drive Seven thousand people are injured in kitchen fires each year and that does not include those who are killed. Don’t be one of them, know what to do and what not to do in the kitchen. Nearly two thirds of all domestic fires happen because of cooking. The kitchen is the single most dangerous place in your home, and time and time again it is the same problems that cause fires. If you know about these problems, the chances are you will be less likely to have a fire in your kitchen.

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Fire Alarm Systems, Fire Extinguishers, CCTV, Door Entry Systems, Fire Risk Assessments and Fire Extinguisher Training. We fit External Electric Sockets for Garden Tools and Garden & Christmas Lighting. Lights and Heating for Greenhouses, Sheds and Summer Houses. Our shop in Aquithie Road, Kemnay stocks a large variety of light bulbs, including 60w/100w bulbs

For Peace of Mind at Home or Work ..... CUMMING FIRE & SECURITY .....Call Us Now 01467 - 643917

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31

Get ready for the 2013 Library Summer Reading Challenge The theme for this summer is Creepy House and there’s a spine tingling adventure waiting in Aberdeen City libraries. By taking part in the Reading Challenge and trying to read 6 books over the summer you can join young adventurers Tilda, Saeed, Ollie, Rhys, Zoe, Liv and Baskerville the dog as they explore the secrets of Creepy House and meet the hair-raising residents

before the summer holidays and there will be themed activities in libraries during the holidays The Summer Reading Challenge is aimed at children aged 4 and over but younger brothers and sisters can join in by sharing books with family and carers.There will also be regular Bookbug Story and Rhyme sessions in libraries during the holiday period. Venue Any library in Aberdeen Time All day every day Cost Free Visit your local Library or our website : www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/libraries/ Airyhall Library will hold Summer Reading Challenge activities on July 3rd 3.30 -4pm July 22nd 2 – 3pm August 15th 2 – 2.45pm

Collect stickers and incentives as you work through the three stages of the Challenge and explore different parts of Creepy House. Do you dare to go to the Awful Upstairs? What might be lurking on the Gruesome Ground Floor and what secrets are hidden in the Spine-tingling Cellar ?

Booking is essential so please contact the library: AiryhallLibrary@aberdeencity.gov. uk or 01224 310536 There will also be Bookbug Story and Rhyme sessions for babies, toddlers parents and carers on July 23rd and August 20th 10-30 -11 am.

There will be more activities plus hidden “treats” for children to “unlock” on the Creepy House website which will go live

Cults and Culter libraries

are running the Summer Reading Challenge and have activities on July 16th 2.30- 4pm at Cults and August 8th 2.30 -4pm at Culter Booking is required There are also storytimes for all ages at Cults on July 9th + 23rd and August 6th 3.00 -3.45pm and at Culter on July 17th + 31st and August 14th 3.00 -3.45pm

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There are Bookbug story and rhyme sessions at Cults July 16th and August 13th 10.30 - 11am Culter 25th July and 22nd August 10.30 -11am Bookbug sessions are to encourage babies, toddlers parents and carers to share stories, songs and rhymes .

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As the weather gets better, and the layers get removed, you are suddenly very aware of the damage of winter! Whether it is overeating, central heating, lack of daylight there is definitely a lot to get sorted for the next season! Having two dogs and the odd delivery round to do my face is exposed to the elements all year, so when Jenny suggested I tried the new active resurface 35 treatments I immediately said yes! I was to have a forty five minute facial once a week for six weeks – hell who wouldn’t say yes! Plus there is a bonus at the end – a rehydrating, nourishing treatment, making seven treatments in total. Jenny customises the treatment to suit your skin. The first treatment was an intense one, but by no means unpleasant. There was a slight warming tingle of the skin around my chin area but it felt good. You could almost hear my face drinking in the moisture after the winter! At the end of the treatment my skin felt fabulous. Two days later there was a slight dryness but no flaking or redness or soreness. The intensity of the treatments went up and down during the course of the six sessions. By session three I was starting to notice a distinct improvement to my skin. I was getting comments from people saying how well I looked and my skin was just glowing. The thing I noticed most was my nose! I have open pores and they were gone, gone, gone! The deep furrows on my forehead were also less noticeable. My skin felt lighter and looked luminous. My biggest regret – not taking a before picture! (sorry) Now I need to work on the diet! (again!) The active resurface is great for premature Ageing, sun damage, fine Lines, pigmentation and uneven skin tone. The treatments are also great for dehydration, congestion, dryness and flakiness. It is sold as a course of 6 treatments (one per week), plus one FREE rehydrating, nourishing treatment… for £330!

Would you like your skin to glow? You certainly don’t need a reason to want to look your best - do you? All you need is one 45 minute treatment once a week for six weeks!

And people will be talking about how amazing you look

For more information/to book an appointment please contact

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News from the Cults Bieldside and Milltimbe New Housing Developments in the CBM area

•

Deferment provides the opportunity for the local authority to properly address the infrastructure issues. The need for greater prioritisation and transparency appears to be recognized by the City but at the moment this is not self-evident. We have no confidence that robust plans exist for the infrastructure at these development sites and or indeed others in the city.

•

Surely it makes sense to properly resolve the schools issues after the completion of the schools estates reviews and to allow more time for the detailed engineering design on the roads to establish that the benefits are viable.

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It also provides time for the city council to develop a protocol on planning gain with the community councils.

We will quote from the city’s response in the following, development specific sections.

There are three major developments at various stages of progress in the area and their status is changing by the day. By the time you read this, these projects may have progressed further from the quoted position at the end of March. During the past half year the Community Council has been in intensive conversation and correspondence with the city planners about the masterplanning and infrastructure aspects of these developments. Much effort was dedicated to this discussion by our late chairman Peter Reiss.

The main points made by CBMCC were: •

•

•

It is our strong view that no planning permissions in principle should be approved until a prioritised, rigorous and transparent infrastructure plan is put in place for the Countesswells and Oldfold Farm Developments. We do not understand the urgency to grant planning permissions in principle. There is no significant demand for the housing given that the developers have not built on the land for which they have already been granted planning permission The AWPR will not be built until 2018. Even if one believes the forecasts for reduced congestion in the city, where we are deeply sceptical, we don’t need additional traffic at the moment on the A93 North Deeside Road or at Countesswells.

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Friarsfield, Craigbank and Sunnyside – Cults The planning application for the first 81 houses was approved subject to 25 (!) conditions. The Aberdeen planners have stated that: “The recommendation was to approve subject to conditions but to withhold consent until a legal agreement is secured to deliver onsite affordable housing provision, planning gain contributions towards education facilities, sport and t : 01224 - 318561

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er Community Council recreation facilities, library provision, community facilities and core paths; and financial contributions towards the delivery of the Link Road. This means that CALA currently do not have planning permission for the proposal. Permission will be granted once the legal agreement which deals with the above has been signed. Although we have an idea up front about what the provisions of the Legal Agreement are, the level of contributions and requirements of the developer mean that a legal agreement is required to ‘tie things up...’ This process is between the Council and CALA’s legal representatives and is not an open & transparent process like the planning application”. The Community Council is most concerned about the procedure followed for this application. The City’s Development Subcommittee appears to have approved an application subject to a multitude of conditions of an essential nature, all issues at the heart of the planning application, without the requirement for the responses to be re-considered by the Committee. This practice could take the essential detail of the planning decisions away from scrutiny by the public and indeed by the elected members, as planning officers could ‘purify’ the application bit by bit without further consultation or publication – a non-transparent process. CBMCC will ask the city planners to be advised when and how each of the conditions has been met for this application and indeed for any other application that may be approved using the same practice.

Oldfold Farm – Milltimber The developer (CALA) submitted an application to be granted planning permission in principle on 19 March. At this stage only the outline plan of the development has been presented – the street lay-out but no details of houses. Also presented are a delivery plan, a transport assessment and a report on the education issues. The development is for 550 homes and includes a primary school and space for small commercial development close to the school. Any commercial development would fall under the responsibility of Seven Incorporated Trades who own the whole site and sold the rights for housing development to CALA. The area for commercial use is around 10,000 sq.ft. i.e. much smaller than the originally planned 5 ha, and it is designed for small units e.g. small offices, hairdressers etc. CALA plan to begin the development working from the North Deeside road boundary upwards. They envisage a minimum of five phases starting with the first phase of 90 homes in spring 2014. The new primary school is currently seen to be in Phase 4 in 2020 after around 264 houses have been built. This timing is something that needs to be discussed with the Aberdeen Council as part of the planning submission to ensure that capacity is available for Milltimber pupils. The new school is planned to be larger than the existing Milltimber Primary school. A team of community councillors and local residents will prepare a response to the application which will include

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principles of pedestrian and cycle movements and routes and traffic distribution will be carried out. The ultimate design of the junctions will be influenced by the traffic modelling carried out and dialogue with the Council.

comments on the following points: •

The strong wish of the community for CALA to be allowed to contribute to an extension of the current Milltimber community centre rather than build a second one in Oldfold.

•

The requirement that the traffic assessment includes the junction between the North Deeside Road and Abbotswell/Westerton Roads, which proved to be critical in the Friarsfield traffic assessment.

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The timing of the new primary school.

This process has been delayed to take on board and address local concerns. However, a feedback meeting with the community liaison group in February was cancelled for unknown reasons and we are not quite sure how far the developers are with their work. The City Planners responded as follows to the CBMCC concerns:

The City has advised that: “There is a commitment from ACC to provide a new Primary School within the Oldfold development. This would be a jointly funded project with the developer. The approved city budget already includes £11 million for that purpose. It is our understanding that, as no pupils from the Countesswells development (other than those admitted by placing request) will attend Cults Academy, there will be sufficient accommodation for secondary education within the existing Cults Academy. Some relatively minor internal works may be required to provide sufficient specialist subject accommodation but this is projected to be very manageable”.

Countesswells - Cults The developers of this major estate have been working with the City Council on the final submission of the Development Framework and Masterplan and have reported to be progressing towards the Planning Permission in Principle application. As part of this process a Transport Assessment that again considers the

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“We have regularly discussed the educational requirements resulting from the development with the developers. The proposals which will progress to statutory consultation are: Primary Provision: to change the current zones of Airyhall and Cults Primary Schools zones so that the proposed new schools within the development have their own zones. This means that the entire Countesswells development would lie outwith the existing Cults and Airyhall zones. The provision of a new Primary School would be required relatively early in the development and in the interim, temporary arrangements would be made to provide primary education at the former Braeside School (see below). Secondary Provision: to change the current zones of Cults Academy and Hazlehead Academy to provide for a new Secondary School zone, based within the Countesswells development. Further rezoning of part of the Bucksburn Academy zone (Kingswells Primary School zone) would result in a large enough pupil population to make a viable new secondary school in the development.

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This will also create sufficient pupil spaces at adjacent secondary schools. From these proposals, it should be clear to potential purchasers of homes within the development that ultimately, all primary and secondary pupils will be educated at schools within the development. In the interim, primary pupils will attend ‘Countesswells at Braeside’ School and secondary pupils will attend Hazlehead Academy”.

We would hope to see a somewhat more precise plan than that expressed in the response by the city planners that:

Regarding the provision of the road infrastructure the city’s response is less concrete, placing much emphasis on the Strategic Transport Fund into which developers’ contribution will collect to “provide a clear and transparent mechanism that provides some certainty to the development industry”. The Community Council is less confident that road matters are under control. None of the strategic road interventions needed have been subject to any rigorous engineering assessment, there is no prioritisation or transparency to make these projects anything else than a wish list.

“The schemes identified will be significant interventions and will therefore be subject to a lengthy period of feasibility and design........ This process will be required for all major infrastructure projects. It should be noted that the build out period for these major developments will be over a significant period of time and it is envisaged that the implementation of the major strategic interventions will still fit in with the predicted build out rates of the various sites”.

In other words: it will be all-right on the night! The CMBCC will keep you informed as we learn more about the planned developments.

Future Meetings

Venue

23 May 2013

Cults Academy

27 June 2013

Deeside Christian Fellowship Church, Milltimber

JULY - NO MEETING

NO MEETING IN JULY

22 August 2013

Cults Academy

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if you aren’t experiencing any pain you might still be suffering from gum disease.

Keeping gum disease away By Julia Faulks

How often have you seen blood in the basin when brushing your teeth and done nothing about it? Unfortunately, this is just one of the signs of gum disease, which has been linked to heart and lung disease, diabetes, strokes and premature births. Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, is where the gums become swollen, sore or infected. It can cause bad breath, bleeding gums, abscesses, loose teeth, receding gums and cavities. With around half of the population having some degree of gum disease, the risk of further health complications makes for scary reading. But the good news is that there is plenty you can do to improve things.

In severe cases, a condition called periodontitis can develop - this affects the tissues that support your teeth and hold them in place, meaning that you may even lose teeth.

•

are over the age of 35

There’s no shame in asking your hygienist to show you how to clean your teeth properly or the best way to floss – years of bad habits can be hard to change, but even changing your toothbrush every three months can help.

•

are a smoker

Top tips

•

have a condition that makes it harder for your body to fight infection

•

•

have a high level of stress

•

are taking certain forms of medication linked with gum disease, including tricyclic antidepressants, antihistamines, antimuscarinic drugs, some antiepileptic drugs, some antipsychotics, beta-blockers, diuretics (water tablets)

Brush your teeth for at least two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste after every meal (leave 30 minutes after eating so your mouth acids have time to reduce).

•

Floss regularly and use interdental brushes to reach the parts of your teeth that normal brushing can miss.

•

Visit your dentist regularly, as well as a hygienist, who will not only clean your teeth but check your mouth generally for the signs of problems.

•

Speak to your pharmacist or dentist about additional treatments, such as an anti bacterial mouthwash, which can help control gum disease and keep your mouth in mint condition.

•

Cut down on sugary food and drinks and quit smoking – these things alone are two of the worst culprits when it comes to causing gum disease.

There are cases where you may be more likely to get gum disease – and not just because you aren’t brushing your teeth well. For example, if you:

•

have a poor diet

•

are pregnant

Bad bacteria

Dental check-ups

The disease is caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth, which contain hundreds of bacteria that can be harmful to your gums.

With many of us neglecting our visits to the dentist and a recent survey revealing that men are the worst culprits when it comes to regular dental check ups, you may be completely unaware of the existence of a problem other than perhaps seeing blood in the sink when brushing your teeth.

If you don’t brush your teeth properly or have them regularly cleaned by a professional, this plaque can build up and irritate your gums. Surprisingly, even

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Don’t wait for your gums to become painful, inflamed or bleed before you visit your dentist – mild cases can be easily treated or even reversed. However, in cases of severe gum disease, you may need further treatment carried out by a specialist.

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Music Theatre Live Entertainment Tickets from boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel : 01224 641122 What’s On in May at His Majesty’s Theatre, Music Hall and Lemon Tree, Aberdeen Monday and Tuesday, May 13 and 14: Channeling his feelings of unease and apprehension about the modern world into Bill Bailey: Qualmpeddler, the comedian brings his trademark musical mashups, multi-lingual riffs, films, songs, philosophising and silliness to in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 8pm. Thursday, May 16: Following two previous sell-out tours of the UK, famed funnyman Reginald D Hunter: In the Midst of Crackers, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 8pm. Thursday, May 16: Fresh, sophisticated, Gaelic-infused folk/rock from Manran, in The Lemon Tree Lounge , at 7.30pm. Thursday to Saturday, May 16 to 18: Scottish Ballet presents Matthew

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Bourne’s Highland Fling, a wonderfully imaginative reworking of the classic romantic ballet La Sylphide, in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm, plus 2pm Saturday matinee. Friday, May 17: For Fat Hippy’s first Lemon Tree gig of 2013, they present their most successful act, Gerry Jablonski & The Electric Band, plus support Hellhouse and The Jackson Blues Band, in The Lemon Tree Lounge , at 8pm. Saturday, May 18: Former Marillion frontman with a solid reputation as a solo singer and songwriter, Fish, in The Lemon Tree Lounge , at 7.30pm. Saturday, May 18: International star Curtis Stigers: Up Close and Personal performs his songs in a stripped-down intimate acoustic setting in a show also featuring guitar virtuoso James Scholfield, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm.

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Sunday, May 19: As seen on Celebrity Juice, Never Mind the Buzzcocks, 8 Out of 10 Cats, Russell Howard’s Good News, Argumental and now playing the lead role in brand new BBC Two sitcom Hebburn, Chris Ramsey on his Feeling Lucky tour, in The Lemon Tree Lounge , at 7pm. Sunday, May 19: Aberdeen Strathspey & Reel Society presents Scottish Music Evening, for an evening of traditional Scottish music, in The Lemon Tree Studio , at 6.30pm. Monday, May 20: Delivering his biting, satirical, political and very funny verse is John Cooper Clarke, plus support from Mike Garry, in The Lemon Tree Lounge , at 8pm. Tuesday, May 21: Fresh faced Scottish folk favourite Rachel Sermanni, plus support from local singersongwriter Cara Mitchell, in The Lemon Tree Lounge , at 7.30pm.

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Thursday, May 23: One of folk music’s greatest innovators for more than 40 years, Martin Carthy, in The Lemon Tree Lounge , at 7.30pm. Wednesday, May 22: Scottish Opera presents The Pirates of Penzance Unwrapped, a free hour-long taster in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 6pm. Places must be booked through boxofficeaberdeen.com or tel 01224 641122 Thursday to Saturday, May 23 to 25: Scottish Opera presents Gilbert and Sullivan as it’s meant to be – pure uncomplicated fun with The Pirates of Penzance, featuring G&S stalwarts Steven Page and Richard Suart, in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm, with 2.30pm Saturday matinee.

Friday and Saturday, May 24 and 25: Right Lines Productions presents Be Silent or Be Killed, based on a true life story, a play recreating the fear and horror of being caught up in a deadline terrorist attack, in The Lemon Tree Studio , at 7pm. Saturday, May 25: True legends of Irish folk, The Dublin Legends, featuring Sean Cannon, Eamonn Campbell, Patsy Watchorn and Gerry O’Connor, formerly of The Dubliners, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm. Saturday, May 25: A British tribute band widely regarded as the closest and most enthralling representation of the legendary 1960s rock gods The Doors in the world today, The Doors Alive, in The Lemon Tree Lounge , at 8pm.

Copy Deadline : 29 May for mid-June - July issues

Alison McLeod Airyhall Community Centre

Sunday, May 26: Aberdeen Sinfonietta in Summer Concert with conductor David Jones and clarinetist Julian Bliss and a programme which includes Mozart, Bizet, Schubert, and Debussy, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm. Wednesday, May 29 to Saturday June 1: Scott School of Dancing presents The Beat Goes On, featuring the talented, dedicated and inspiring pupils of the school from two-year-olds up to 24 year olds, in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7pm. Saturday, May 30: Recreating the patter, razzamatazz and sounds of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Junior in their Vegas heyday, Rat Pack Live, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm. Friday, May 31: Recreating the Eagles music with reverence, excitement and a new stage show are The Ultimate Eagles, in The Lemon Tree Lounge , at 7.30pm.

After School Football Kingswells Community Centre

Monday Thursday Friday Monday Friday 4.15-5.00 Girls 2.00-2.30 Pre School 9.30-10.00 9.30-10.00 Pre School 9.30-10.00 Tiny Tots 1.45-2.15 Pre School 3.30-4.15 P1/2 10.00-10.30 Wednesday Session 2013-14 Tuesday 2.00-2.45 9.30-10.00 Pre School 3.30-4.15 P1/2 Places can now be booked 3.30-4.15 P1/2 1.30-2.15 Pre School Plus 4.15-5.00 P1/2 for the new session 5.00-5.45 P3/4 3.30-4.15 P1/2 starting in August 4.15-5.00 P1/2 For more info contact Alison McLeod on 07824631221 www.Aberdeenfootballfun.co.uk Please do mention the gazette when responding to advertisers - thank you

Pre School

Tiny tots Pre School Plus

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Backstage tours at HMT One of the must-sees for any visitors to Aberdeen, as well as any self-respecting local resident, has long been the Saturday morning tours of the city’s historic His Majesty’s Theatre, built by the legendary theatre architect Frank Matcham. Announced today is a new season of 75-minute tours through the iconic building’s modern £7.8 million extension as well as the 107-year-old original building, lifting the curtain on the inside story of the

history and day-to-day workings of the Edwardian theatre. These will be held June 1, 8,22 and 29 and July 6, with an additional tour from 11.30am on two Saturdays - June 1 and July 6. Numbers are limited to only 20 people per tour, on a firstcome-first-served basis, and tickets cost £5 (£3 concession) and can be booked through Aberdeen Box Office online at www.boxofficeaberdeen.com, in person at the Music Hall or His Majesty’s Theatre or by phone on 01224 641122. The tours explore the new and old sections of the city theatre, known affectionately as HMT,

providing an opportunity to get onstage and see the auditorium from the eyes of a performer in one of the most beautiful theatres in Scotland. Then it’s backstage to get a glimpse of the inner workings of a busy theatre and pick up some inside knowledge of its spooky past. Free tours for schools can be organised, according to availability and scheduling, and information on these and individual tours for groups is available from Aberdeen Performing Arts Creative Learning team on 01224 337684 or at creativelearning@ aberdeenperformingarts.com

Music in the Sanctuary The fourth series of recitals continues with performances by some of the North-East’s ‘upand-coming’ musicians: Chansons, one of Scotland’s leading amateur choirs will sing for us on Saturday 25th May at 7.00pm. They will take part in Worship on Sunday 26th May at 10.30am. Ticketed. Aberdeen International Youth Festival A classical guitar ensemble from Canada and a group of Russian singers will perform on Tuesday 30th July at 2.00pm. Ticketed. Admission is generally by donation. At the end of the last series, the generosity of our audiences enabled us to pass over £1500 to our chosen charities. Refreshments will be served after the recital. Meantime, we look forward to seeing you at our next recital.

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Mannofield Church News A great deal has been going on in and around Mannofield Church recently as efforts continue apace to raise money for the proposed redevelopment. We are all greatly encouraged at having broken the £500,000 mark, which means that over a third of the projected cost of the entire project has been met. Mannofield Church recently achieved listed building status, which will allow us to apply to the Heritage Lottery Fund for a grant. As well as internal refurbishment of the existing building, it is hoped to build a new annexe housing a coffee shop and new community facility facing on to Great Western Road. For more information about the project, go to www.mannofieldchurch.org.uk and follow the links to the development. There have been many fund-raising initiatives, the latest being a bag-packing exercise at a local supermarket, which brought in £800.00. This was a great effort carried out by some of the young people connected to Mannofield Church, and demonstrates how everyone is pulling together to reach our target.

21st Aberdeen (Cults) Scout Group

Saturday 25th May Scout Centre South Avenue Cults 10 am - 4 pm PLEASE BRING YOUR DONATIONS TO THE SCOUT CENTRE 2013

Scottish Charity No. 018385

Carol-Anne Sinclair’s School of Dance are having a “free” show at Mannofield Church on Saturday, 29 June. Donations to charity.

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2013/2014

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community clubs & groups

adult groups Keep Fit Class, the Swedish Way! With Friskis and Svettis Medium jympa class, Mondays 5.30pm at Queens Cross Church hall Fitness, flexibility and strength- an all round workout to great music! No need to book, just turn up and have fun while exercising For more info contact Kirsty on 07711825614 or visit fsaberdeen.co.uk 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 Badminton Group Meets weekly at Airyhall Community Centre on Mondays 8pm to 10pm. All welcome. Annual Fee £7.00 and nightly fee £1.00. Contact David 01224 321301 e mail david@david143.wanadoo.co.uk or pop along on the night. Hatha Yoga Tues 17.45-19.15, AYC, 8 Bon Accord Sq hurs 10.00-11.30/Fri 10.15-11.45, Fri 12.001250, Queens Cross Church, Tel 648475 or moira.chicometrics@gmail.com Registered Yoga Scotland teacher www.moirayogaaberdeen.co.uk 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 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 Italian Classes for Beginners to Advanced in Cults at Hillview Community Church and Cults Academy Tuesday, Thursday and Friday – day and evening email enrica.conti@tiscali.co.uk Tel 07786827714 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.

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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 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 (for both adults and juniors). Courts open from SUNDAY 28 APRIL 2013 at 2pm - come and join us (free for your first visit). Membership info: Barbara Miller, (01224)635556, email: barbara@jmiller.co.uk Russian evening & 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 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 March Hare Market marchharemarket@gmail.com 07725 591 866 Boys Brigade HQ Adult Spanish and French classes Airyhall Community Centre Experienced language teacher E-mail John at jymcl11@gmail.com or Tel: 01224 582491 Concordia String Orchestra Welcomes string players of grade VII or above. Rehearsals at Ferryhill Church every Tuesday, starting at 7.30. Please contact Dave Southwood for more details (01467 642408) Banchory Morris Men Telephone 01330 822320 Lively dancing with stick, bells, etc. (and not just English, we also do Scottish dances at Crathes Village Hall 815pm on a Tuesday. All round body workout to lively music! Tel: 07738 786926 Come along for a fun & effective workout - no need to book, just turn up. Wed 6pm-7pm Inchgarth Community Centre, Garthdee. No fancy keep fit gear required, just comfortable clothing & trainers - maybe just bring a bottle of water! contact Faye 07738 786926 Learn Italian at Pasta Plus Wednesday evenings : an informal italian language class at Pasta Plus 119 Rosemount Place, Aberdeen, Scotland Tel: 07950603477- 01224 624030 (Please call to book a space and learn of the start date) Aberdeen Gaelic Choir Enjoy harmony singing in Scotland’s traditional language. New members welcome. Knowledge of Gaelic not required. Meet every Tuesday at 7.30pm in Holburn West Church, corner of Great Western Road and Ashley Park Drive. Contact Mike on 632354/mclintockm@aol.com or e mail to aberdeengaelichoir@gmail.com

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The Officers and Members of the Council are :Chairman - Mr G Craig Vice Chairman - Mr D Miller Secretary - Ms Ruth Macpherson ruth.macpherson.298@gmail.com Treasurer and Planning Officer - Mr A Goldie Traffic News - Mr D Gourlay Forum Rep - Neil Stewart neil.stewart@hotmail.co.uk 07816779716 Web & Newsletter - Ken Hutcheon abdn.qxcc@hotmail.co.uk Tel 319891 Members - Brenda Craig, Sheila Gourlay, Edwin Grieve, Marjorie Inglis

MEETINGS

For further Information on Community Council Meetings

Queens Cross Community Council Visit the Queen's Cross and meets at 7pm on the second Harlaw website for :Tuesday of every month at St. Joseph's School 5 Queens Minutes Road, Aberdeen, AB15 4YL. Significant Planning Applications Except School Holidays in the area Thus dates for 2013 Meetings are Police Reports and advice January 8th, February 12th, Councillors Reports March 12th, April 9th (Rubislaw Events taking place Church Centre), May 14th, June 11th, September 10th, e.g. music in the churches. October 8th, November 12th, December 10th

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community clubs & groups

adult groups 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 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 Social evenings commence Wed 1st May & continue every Wed til 28th Aug. 7:30 - 9:45 at Curl Aberdeen, Eday Road, Aberdeen. Some experience of Scottish Country Dancing recommended. Contact: 01224 636128 for more information 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 which meets twice monthly (Wed. am, Sep – Jun) at Aberdeen Cricket Club. Offers a wide range of talks from interesting speakers. Other activities include occasional lunches and trips, regular walks and also bowling and golf competitions. New members welcome. Ian Struthers, Tel 314957 Airyhall Community Centre Bowling Section Meets Mon/Wed/Fri 10-12 – 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.

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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: 323925 and 821753 Dru Yoga A soft, gentle style of exercise, Dru Yoga is suitable for all. Tues 7.00 - 8.00 pm, Jubilee Hall, South Holburn Church. Wed 10.30 - 11.30 pm, Broomhill Activity Centre. Thurs 10.00 - 11.30 am, Girlguiding 45 Victoria Street. Telephone: Pauline 643447 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 Fiona Mackie on 07748 845 141 or e-mail Fionamackie118@btinternet.com 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 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.

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community clubs & groups

adult groups 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 Holburn Parish Church. All classes run by Fiona Bochel, Cost is £5 an hour, tel 861347 Monday Badminton Ruthrieston West Church Hall Monday’s @ 7.30pm Ceilidh Classes! Do you have a wedding or a “do” coming up in 2013? We are holding ceildih classes on the following dates - just turn up for an evening of fun tuition! Venue: South St Nicholas Church Hall Kincorth Circle, Kincorth AB12 5AX Dates: 14th May and 11th June Times: 7:30 - 9:00 Cost £5.00 per person per session. Tel: 01224 636128 for more info. Yoga Summer Classes 7 weeks, 2 venues, organised by GYA. Craigiebuckler Church starting 2nd July, Tuesday evenings. 8 Bon Accord Sq, top floor, starting 4th July, Thursday morning. Specific beginner/back to basics classes first two weeks. Different teacher each class. Tel 07429 349382 or email allansb933@btinternet.com Sorptimist International of Aberdeen is part of a worldwide organisation for women founded in 1921. We raise money for local, national and international charities. We are not a charity but a service organisation helping women especially, but also men and children through ‘awareness,action and advocacy’. We are a friendly club meeting on the 1st 1nd 3rd Wednesdays of the month. If you wish to know more - www.sigbi.org/Aberdeen or contact Marjory Smart on 646916.

Aberdeen Orpheus Choir under their Conductor Jane Murray with Accompanist Erika Fairhead are holding their Summer Concert in the Cowdray Hall, Aberdeen on Friday, 31st May, 2013 at 7.30 p.m., they will be joined by Guest Artists Bon-Accord Silver Band Quintet. A wide variety of music will be performed including anthems by Handel and Purcell, works by Vaughan Williams and folk songs some of which have been arranged by Bob Chilcott of the Kings Singers and pop and jazz classics. Tickets for this concert cost £8:00 and £6:00 concessions and may be purchased from Top Note Music Shop, 123 Crown Street, Aberdeen, from Choir Members or at the door of the Hall on the evening of the performance.

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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: babiesand toddlers@aberdeenmethodist.org.uk Midstocket Playgroup, Midstocket Parish Church, Harcourt Rd. 2.5 - 5 year olds. Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 09.15 - 11.45, Mon,Tues,Thurs 13.00- 15.30. Funded places available. Tel. 07542 256703 www.midstocketplaygroup.co.uk Rubislaw Playgroup Playgroup: Rubislaw Church Centre. Mon to Fri 9:15-11:45; from 30 mths to school age. Funded places available. Call 07747 830386 b/n 9:30 & 12:15 or email rubislawplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk Toddlers and 2s: Rubislaw Church Centre. Enjoy play, craft, singing and snack. Toddlers: Up to 2 yrs; Wed 9:30-11:30 2s Group: 2 to 3 yrs; Tues 9:30-11:30. Call 07747 830386 b/n 9:30 & 12:15 or email rubislawplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk/ Messy Play Rubislaw Church Centre. Enjoy messy play for ages 2 to 5. Wed & Fri 1:15-3pm. Call 07747 830386 b/n 9:30 & 12:15 or email rubislawplaygroup@hotmail. co.uk/ Kids Crew Playgroup.2yrs 8mnths. Mon, Wed, Fri mornings 9.30am-12pm. 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 www.nct.org.

Queen’s Cross Parent & Toddler Group Queens Cross Church Mon 9.30-11.30 Children 0-4 & their grown-ups are very welcome. £1.50 Gaelic Parent & Child Group Gilcomstoun Primary School Mon, Wed & Fri 9.15-11.30. You don’t have to speak Gaelic. Mairi Morley 07900 337122, e : gaelic@aberdeencity.gov.uk. Singing Tots 6mths - 3 yrs Mon 945-1015 & 1045 -1115 Rubislaw Church Centre phone or text : 07745 924449 info@singingtots.org /www.singingtots.org Toddler Time : Wed 09:15–11:15 term time. Friendly, welcoming group for parents & children aged 0-4. Cost 50 pence, inc snacks & refreshments New Life International Church, Leadside Road, AB25 1TW Michelle - 07808 932 907 Ruthrieston West Church Twos Group Fri 9.45 - 11.00 ( During term time) Age 1year 10 months + £2.50 per child per session. For more information phone Lynne on 01224 314692 Teeny Beats Fun singalong with musical instruments. Meets on a Wednesday 2pm - 3pm during term time at Rubislaw Church Centre. For children aged 0 to 5 years. £2 per session discounted rate for additional children. Further info contact Jenni Dalziel 07835852389, jennidalziel@live.co.uk 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. £8 per month, with lots of fun activities, crafts and healthy snacks provided for the children. 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 South Holburn Church Parent and Toddler Group E-mail: fmdfindon@aol.com Parents with babies and toddlers aged 0 - 3 are invited to join us to meet other parents ove a cup of tea or coffee and play with your child in a welcoming, child-friendly setting. Thursday mornings 9.15 - 11.15am. during school terms. Grampian Twins club A voluntary group for parents of multiples, get together on the last Friday of every month at St Francis of Assisi church, 213 Deeside Gardens AB15 7PR. There for you during pregnancy and beyond for advice, support and a great way to meet other multiple mums in the city and shire area. www.grampiantwinsclub.co.uk Jo Jingles Music and Movement leanne.jojingles@tiscali.co.uk 07595452621 Fun and educational music classes monday/tuesday/thursday @ city centre and Wynford farm www.jojingles.com/aberdeen Rhythm Time Tel: 07716593828 Discover the magic of music! Multi-sensory music classes for newborn - 3 years. Classes in Cults and Ruthrie Terrace, Aberdeen. Thurs pm (Cults) Fri am, Inchgarth Community Centre. www.rhythmtime.net

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Broomhill Primary School Spring Fair Saturday 25th May 12-2pm Games, stalls, refreshments, face painting and more... come along and join the fun!

Energy Saving Road Shows

Do you want to reduce amount of electricity you use and cut your bills? The Energy Saving Trust Foundation gives impartial, accurate and independent advice to communities and households on how to reduce carbon emissions, how to use water more sustainably and how to save money on energy bills. Alan Thomson, Energy Advisor, will be at the following libraries to give energy advice within the home and on transport: Airyhall Library, Springfield Road Monday 27 May 2013 - 11am-2.00pm Cults Library, North Deeside Road Tuesday 11 June 2013 - 10.00am-1.00pm Ferryhill Library, Fonthill Road Tuesday 25 June 2013 - from 11.00am-2.00pm Find out more about the Trust at: www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland

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Tel : 322000 Devonair Hairstylists 2 Devonshire Road Aberdeen (off St Swithin St)

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community clubs & groups

kids groups 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 :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 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 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 Thurs 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. Tel: Sarah 317827 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. http://tutorsalliance.co.uk/Music-Lessons.php

Dear Sue, I wondered if you could let your readers know that the Albury Sports Centre opened for the season on Saturday, 20 April. For tennis, putting and bowling and an excellent tennis coaching programme which is available for all ages. Albury Sports Centre is looking good as it has all been re painted incl the tennis courts. As always we are looking for more volunteers to help run the centre. See Alburysportscentre.org for more details. Here’s hoping for some good weather and a busy season! Thanks again, Elaine

Animal Blessing Service Craigiebuckler Church Hall

Aberdeen Sunday 9th June 2013 3pm All animals with their human companions welcome For more information please contact me at: forrester.m1@sky.com

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However much effort you make with your garden, you can be sure that there will still be a few things that look awful. You may have made (or hope to make) beautiful borders, sensational shrubbery and lots more besides, but how do you cope with those things you just cannot seem to hide? A washing line may be essential but rarely adds to the appeal of the garden. If yours consists of two large poles with a line in between, try growing a pretty climber up the poles. If you use a self-clinging plant such as variegated ivy it won’t need any additional support. Alternatively make a chicken wire, trellis ‘box’ or frame around the posts and then allow the climber to

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Fencing Pretty

scramble up, using plant ties if necessary. Summer flowering clematis or sweet pea will look great too. If you do use a more vigorous climber then be prepared to do some intermittent pruning. Decrepit sheds or moth-eaten garages can be a real eyesore. Sometimes a thorough scrub of the walls will do the trick, or why not make a feature out of the shed or garage and re-paint it. Consider erecting a trellis on one or more of the vertical surfaces and grow a selection of favourite climbers up it to make an even more attractive feature. If the garden can be a little gloomy then it helps if you paint any surfaces such as garage or shed walls with a paler colour. If your heating is fuelled by gas from an unattractive and enormous cylinder or oil from a large green tank, you will know that they have to be sited in

an accessible position. You can use hazel wattle hurdles to hide them which are perfect as they also match with the adjacent boundary fence. Try using standard fence panels in the same way and again planting them with climbers or scramblers will help. Whatever you do, make sure that you check on it from time to time and remove excessive climber growth so that the tank remains accessible. Is it the neighbouring garden that harbours the eye sore which makes you want to retreat back into your house? Something nasty next door is of course even harder to conceal but why not add a layer of trellis to the top of your existing fence and then use climbers once it is in position. Hold the trellis in position using batons of wood attached to the existing fence posts or special post-joining metal sleeves that you can buy from your fencing supplier or garden centre. Trellis is available in a range of shapes and need not be

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straight edged so you can create a range of different looks to suit your gardening style. Another option is to erect a pergola or arch to obscure or break up an unsightly view or the eyesore in the neighbour’s garden and adding plants will help to add a bit more height and soften the outline. If you combine some of your favourite flowering climbers with some evergreen planting too, you should even achieve good effects during the seasons when the leaves have fallen from many plants. Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com and sign up for Pippa’s free newsletter packed full of gardening hints, happenings, advice and offers and you will also receive a free ebook on organic gardening. Don’t forget that you can buy Nemaslug and other biological controls, anti-slug matting and tape, Enviromesh and signed books, autumn vegetable packs and a hand-picked selection of garden products from the website too.

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Crown Street Ceilidh I decided to come out of 'fiddle retirement' to make a fundraising CD for a charity in Aberdeen who offer a free counselling service to anyone wishing to reduce or stop drinking. The charity is Alcohol Support Ltd and they are based in Crown Street in Aberdeen. While on a short assignment with the charity I was asked if I would do some fundraising. I thought, what might I be good at... making an album? I have been asked on a number of occasions over the years to donate my music to other charity cds, so I thought I would give it a go and make one myself. The project involved enlisting the help of a few talented individuals to enable it to come to fruition... I managed to persuade the fantastic Manson Grant, Robert Cameron and Gordon Gunn to provide studio facilities for the making of the album, Manson himself put together all the artwork from files provided by myself and photographs supplied by local Caithness musician/composer/music teacher/ photographer - Donald McNeill. I was very fortunate that some of my favourite musicians agreed to donate tracks to the recording. Headlining the CD we have Alasdair Fraser on Fiddle and Natalie Haas on Cello. In addition, local Caithness folk band Clapshot have also donated a track - grateful to Donald McNeill, John Saunders, David Broughton, Roger Broughton and Katy Malone for that. Glenfiddich Fiddle Champion, Paul Anderson from Tarland provided a beautiful air. Sharon Hassan from Aberdeen who was nominated for fiddle teacher of the year at the recent Scottish Traditional Music Awards donated a set of Polkas, all composed

by herself, prominent Ceilidh Band from Aberdeen, Danse McCabre, featuring BBC Scotland's Claire White on Fiddle and multiinstrumentalist Anne Taylor have donated 2 tracks, including a beautiful rendition of Auld Lang Syne, Caithness' very own Manson Grant & The Dynamos very generously provided a song for the cd, which contrasts perfectly with all the instrumental music on the album, Gordon Gunn gave permission for the use of his self-penned tune 'Gillian's Waltz' - the quality of the sound and arrangement with his band Session A9 is definitely a highlight on the album with the remaining tracks coming from myself on fiddle and Pete MacCallum on Guitar from Aberdeen, as well as a track recorded at PAN records for Brandon MacPhee's DVD The Flying Scots. I am very proud of what has been achieved for Alcohol Support in Aberdeen in a very short space of time and hope that it proves to be a financial success for the charity. The charity is partly funded by the NHS and goes some way to alleviating to the pressure on the health service, as well as financial aid from Grampian Police. For information and/or to make an appointment, or donation, readers of the Gazette can contact Counselling@alcoholsupport.co.uk, 01224 573887 or ASL, 112 Crown Street, ABERDEEN. All proceeds from the sale of the cd will go directly to Alcohol Support. Anyone wishing to order a copy of the cd: Please make cheques for ÂŁ6 inc P&P payable to ALCOHOL SUPPORT LTD and mail to Karen Steven, 67 Whitehall Place, Aberdeen, AB25 2PD.

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