Kingswells Community News Issue 17 February - March 2016 Free bi-monthly magazine
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Is Buy-to-Let Still a Good Investment? With no sign of improved interest rates for savers, and pension changes that offer more freedom, is buy-to-let still a good option for those wanting to invest? At first glance, the increase in stamp duty and reduction in some tax reliefs for landlords may cast doubt on whether investing in bricksand-mortar is a good idea, but success depends on many factors, not least of which is your commitment to maximising returns. We take a look at what you need to consider when thinking about property investment. One of the first items on the list should be to clarify your motivation for this type of investment, as it will directly impact on the areas and type of property that you choose. Do you want rental yield or long-term capital growth? Are you considering a long-term investment to take advantage of capital growth, or focusing on the potential rental yield of a property? Between 15 and 20 years is a common timescale for property ownership with capital growth in mind, which might fit in nicely with your plans for retirement. On the other hand, investing in a multipleoccupancy student let, for example, could bring in much-needed monthly income. You may be able to make a rental yield of between 5% and 10% if you find a suitable property in a good location, and buy it for the right price. Focusing on the figures Buy-to-let can still be a good investment if you’re prepared to put in the time and effort to make it work. This begins with meticulous research to make sure you get the best mortgage deal, find suitable locations and the right style of property
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for your target market. In other words, you need to make sure as far as possible that the numbers add up. Lending restrictions have made it difficult to find a good mortgage deal in recent years, when compared with the pre-credit crunch era, but even when you’ve got a mortgage offer that you’re happy with, you should be constantly looking for ways to improve returns by switching suppliers and cutting costs. Will you manage the property yourself? Many professional landlords concentrate purely on managing their business. They don’t get involved in the month-to-month management of the property, or dealing with tenant issues – in fact, many landlords never even meet their tenants. It’s purely a numbers game, and taking this approach means abandoning any personal preferences with regard to choosing your property. If you decide to hire a letting agent, they will take a percentage of the rent by way of payment. This may seem like a needless expense when you’re willing to do the work yourself, but when you consider how much time and energy is saved in not having to deal with tenant issues it may be money well spent, particularly if you have more than one property. Financial benefits of buy-to-let The beneficial tax reliefs enjoyed on buy-to-let mortgage interest payments are now being limited to the basic rate of income tax. This was previously an attractive part of buy-to-let investing, but they can still be enjoyed if you form a limited company for your property investments. As rates of corporation tax are being reduced to 18% by 2020, for owners of multiple properties at least, this could help to reduce costs. But as always, you need to seek the advice of a professional advisor to maximise the investment returns and minimise your tax bill. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/guides/buy-to-let/btlhave-you-considered-the-investment-risks/
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The Missing Link
Christmas Cheer
In the last edition we reported that the new pathway leading up to the Hotel and other community facilities had been completed
Once again the Community Council would like to thank, on your behalf, Graeme Thom, Jim Stewart, Dean Martin, Davie Reid and all other members of the Christmas tree squad for their sterling work in organising and erecting our Christmas tree once again this year
We had wrongly given the impression that the full length from the pelican crossing at the P&R Bus entrance up to the front door of the Hotel was all new path way. We have been asked to point out that in fact the new path only extends to where it meets the top access Road which is used exclusively by Home Farm vehicles We would also point out that care should be taken when walking along this short stretch of road, which runs for approx 50 metres, as Home Farm vehicles will be coming and going and priority should be given to traffic in both directions
Our thanks must also go to the Sponsors;
It has been reported that some pedestrians have been understandably assuming that no vehicles should be on this short stretch of Road and being little less neighbourly to the drivers they encounter.
Without the help of these volunteers and community spirited individuals the Village would not have this little bit of festive cheer
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John Park – The Volks Garage, Old Skene Road, Kingswells and Derek (Cubby) Rattray – Derek Rattray Building Services, Kingswells
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landline: 01224 949085 mobile : 07813 964 875 email : kingswells@gazettemagazines.com web : www.gazettemagazines.com
independent publisher All enquiries : Sue Simpson Disclaimer : Whilst we’d be flattered if you would like to borrow something from the gazette be polite and ask first! Thank you.
We try our hardest to ensure accuracy of editorial content but no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. The views expressed within the gazette are not necessarily those of the publisher or advertisers. When replying to offers, competitions and other correspondence, we would strongly recommend that you check published information with each organisation beforehand. 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.
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A note from Sue ... Spring is in the air and hopefully the stormy weather will be coming to a close. I do hope none of you suffered any loss of caravans and holiday houses up in Ballater? So what’s in this magazine? Meet the Kingswells Community Council, a little bio on the current members for your information. There are a couple of people needed to boost the numbers if you think it would be something you’d be interested in doing. The Fourmile has a discount code which is good until the end of February, so you’ll need to be quick. Also one to use at the Ferryhill House. Want to improve the health of your hair? Then pop along to West with Style at Westhill and have a free consultation book a colour in March and be one of the lucky customer’s to get a mini SP product. Gillian, one of my delivery team member’s, is doing a sponsored cycle later in the year in London. It is in memory of Val Hood a well known member of the Kingswells Community - there is a just-giving page if you’d like to continbute however large or small. Valentine’s and Mother’s Day are very close why not support a new local business Von Petal for beautiful fresh flowers. Bacon roll anyone? Then hop over to Fresh Cafe with a friend and buy one and get one free. Great reason to catch up in February and March. One of my Christmas gifts was a “fitbit”. It is keeping track of my movement, my sleep patterns and my food intake. It is very interesting to look at the weekly results and trying to beat my daily goal! Magazine delivery should get me beyond my 10000 step target a day. I would definitely recommend even the simplest one if you want to improve your fitness and health this year.
Until next time,
Sue x
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wee reminder from Adventure Aberdeen about its Community meeting room. This is Seafood, prime alian cooking! within the main body of the building and is hireable by community groups at a very competitive rate. The room is the old gym ... in Little Belmont Street hall of the school and We have been serving fine italian cuisine since 1977. can accommodate up to Extensive à la carte menu for lunch and dinner. 25 people comfortably. Thecuisine roomsince has 1977. a mixture We Hall have been serving fine italian 5 minutes walk from His Majesty’s Theatre and Music Extensive à la carte menu for of lunch and dinner. erving fine italian cuisine since - special lunch and 1977. pre-theatre menus. formal and informal rte menu for lunch and dinner. seating, a large screen minutes walk from His Majesty’s Theatre and Music Hall and Freshly baked home-made pizzas with lashings of 5 toppings. – special lunch menus.projector, public Tender pasta dishes full of tasty ingredients and luscious creamand pre-theatredigital rom His Majesty’s Theatre and Music Hall sauces. Seafood, prime steaks, chicken dishes, all with that extra wifi, a kitchenette with urn, nd pre-theatre menus. Freshly baked home mode home made pizzas with lashings of toppings. touch of genius which is true italian cooking! microwave, dish washer, Tender pasta dishes full of tasty ingredients and luscious cream sauces. Seafood, steaks, chicken dishes, all with crockery, that extra touch genius thereofare twowhich is true Italian coo Open made Monday to Saturday 12 noon 2.30pm and 5.30pm to 10.15pm ome mode home pizzas with lashings of to toppings. hes full of tasty ingredients and luscious cream sauces. Seafood, primeGift toilets, one with disability Open Monday to Saturday: 12 noon to 2.30pm & 5.30pm to 10.15pm Littleextra Belmont Street | Aberdeen | AB10 1JGcooking! ishes, all with7 that touch of genius which is true Italian and baby changing Vouchers Available The room has 1JG 7 Little Belmont Street facilities. | Aberdeen | AB10 to Saturday: 12 noon to 2.30pm & 5.30pm to 10.15pm disability access. It can be booked at any time but is mont Street | Aberdeen | AB10 1JG generally more available in the evenings.
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Latest News You may not be aware of it, but over the years Kingswells Community Council has, on your behalf, beavered away to maintain and improve the area within which we are fortunate enough to live. Much of the work is challenging and time-consuming and, due to its very nature, does often go unnoticed within the wider community. To rectify this we would like to take this opportunity to give you a flavour of what we do and who we are. Over the years we have seen a good number of volunteers come and go but each and every one of them deserves a great deal of credit for a job well done. We have always been blessed with having a range of members with wide and varied experience. Each and every one of them has, in their own way, added value for the greater good. MAJOR ISSUES Although we are little more than a pressure group when it comes to major issues to do with planning and development we are still very much listened to within the corridors of power as the arguments that we put forward for or against development proposals are well balanced and put together professionally. These reports can take weeks to compile, such is their in-depth analysis. Although we have not always been successful in www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085
protecting Kingswells from inappropriate developments, we have over the years enjoyed a number of major successes in influencing Aberdeen City Council (ACC) and developers alike. As an example of our success, we have so far managed to save the countryside around Gillahill and most of the Den Burn valley from major housing developments. Had these occurred we would have seen Kingswells join with the main body of Aberdeen and become just another part of the city’s urban sprawl. We report much of our activity in the Kingswells Community News which we hope you find interesting. We also hope that you agree with the position we take on major issues and agree that we only ever act in the best interests of the village. LOCAL INITIATIVES We obviously rely on residents highlighting areas of concern that we might be able to help with or take up on their behalf, or simply suggesting initiatives that we might consider taking forward. Local objectives and initiatives are our prime motivation. Over the years we have taken great pride and indeed pleasure in driving forward a number of these initiatives to a successful conclusion.
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Examples of such initiatives would have to include the following: 1. Village Christmas tree. 2. Welcome to Kingswells signs 3. Village centre CCTV system. 4. Village centre hanging baskets. 5. Installing 5 granite benches throughout the village at no cost to the community. 6. Pressurising Stewart Milne Homes to maintain, on an annual basis, the land that they own throughout the village. 7. Pushing for the pedestrian pathway to the Urban Village Hotel. 8.
Persistently pursuing ACC, with support from our two city councillors, to maintain an appropriate level of road repair and resurfacing, including Broaddykes Drive and Kingswells Crescent.
Obviously our work will never be done as we will continue to act as your representatives in all important local issues. We have a number of planned objectives for our new three-year term as a community council but realise that these may have to change if other unforeseen priorities spring up. Below, however, is a small sample of initiatives that we intend to pursue:
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Act as intermediary between all businesses operating in the village centre, including ACC, in an attempt to set up a factoring agreement which could lead to a maintenance contract and minor upgrading being considered.
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Push for the completion of the park & ride alterations which would see the Stagecoach X17 (Queens Road) service calling at the P&R as part of their route.
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Along with Adventure Aberdeen, help to develop Fairley Road field into an adventure playground and to ensure that the area is available to Kingswells kids 24/7. A “Friends of Fairley Road” committee will be set up and will include at least two local residents who will look after your interests.
As an aside, we do have a couple of unfilled Community Council positions that we would like to fill. So if you are communityminded why not consider joining our group and make a difference. In the meantime let us introduce ourselves to you. Stan McEwan Chair
Alex (Sandy) Carnie
I have lived in Kingswells for 20 years and have been a member of The Community Council for most of this time including two terms as Chair. I worked primarily in the Drinks Industry, within both the domestic and International markets, firstly with Seagram’s Distillers then latterly with Tomatin Distillers. I have now Retired and wholly subscribe my time to the benefit of Kingswells. My main interest is to work with our environmental sub group and liaise with the appropriate City Council Officers and other outside contractors to ensure the proper upkeep of all Public areas.
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Ian Cox (Secretary/Treasurer)
I have lived in Kingswells for about 23 years. I am a Civil Engineer and have been working as a Structural Engineer designing steelwork for offshore structures. I am interested in planning and infrastructure issues within Kingswells and the general running of the Community Council. I will be active in the provision of better facilities at the field in Fairley Road, and ensuring that they remain assessable to the general public.
John Gerrie
I have lived in Kingswells since 2001 my background is that of a Surveyor within the Construction industry until my retirement. I have been a Community Councillor since 2002 when I helped repulse the AFC move to Bellfield and since have specialised in planning matters. I helped designed and erect the “Welcome to Kingswells” signs Sited at the main entrances into the Village. I am also the Chair of the Community Council Forum looking after 25 Councils within Aberdeen. My aspiration for Kingswells is to improve on the independence of the Village preserving the style and greenery of its “garden” status.
Dr Kenneth Mcalpine
My aim is to contribute to ensuring Kingswells remains a pleasant, healthy, desirable and leafy place to live. I seek out opportunities to build community, to reduce social isolation and to empower and enable individuals and groups within Kingswells to enhance the quality of life of all residents. As a retired consultant physician in medicine for the elderly I know the positive benefits that good neighbours and a caring community can have on the elderly, the less able, the disadvantaged and newcomers to our Village.
Stan McEwan (Chairman)
I have been a Resident of Kingswells for approx. 25 years and have been a member of the Community Council for 11 years. I spent most of my working life as a senior manager of a large National Brewer. In the latter part of my career I owned and operated a couple of licensed outlets and a franchised Restaurant in Aberdeen. My interest as a member of the Community Council lies in pursuing “Special projects” such as the Christmas tree and the path leading to the new Hotel. My aim for this term is to help facilitate a Village Centre factoring agreement to help with the maintenance and upgrade of the Centre as a whole. www.gazettemagazines.com t : 01224 949085
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Trevor Rosbrook (Minute Secretary)
I have worked in the Oil and Gas Industry as a corrosion/ Integrity Engineer for 48 years before recently retiring. My interest is maintaining Kingswells as a great place to live. In particular the maintenance of the amenity areas and pushing for an improved service from Aberdeen City Council.
David Simpson
I worked in the construction Industry for fifty years from tea boy to M.D. My work was evenly dispersed between heavy Civils and construction. I retired in 2010 due to a number of health issues and this has allowed me to concentrate on our local Community. I have lived in Kingswells since 1981 and have witnessed the development of our Village first hand. My wish is to maintain the lovely environment that is Kingswells and where possible make further improvement.
Kathy Strachan
I have worked in the Oil Industry as an Operations Geologist, both offshore and onshore, in the UK and elsewhere in Europe. I have lived in Kingswells for over 3 years and in various parts of the UK prior to this. I hope I can help keep Kingswells a great place to live.
Dr Tom Straiton
I’ve lived in Kingswells for 26 years and have been on the community Council since it started. I am a retired Civil Servant with a background in chemistry and education. Outwit my family life, I’m interested in all things scientific and I enjoy the outdoor life. My main work on the group is to do with monitoring and responding to planning applications, and protecting and improving the local environment. I also write articles For the Kingswells Community News .
Associate Community Activists: Graeme Thom, Jim Stewart and Dean Martin [Christmas tree Squad] Mary Anderson and Margaret Strachan [Friends of Fairley Rd. Field] 10
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Kingswells
Health Walks Kingswells Health Walks take place every Thursday morning, departing at 10.30 am from the Community Centre. We had a short break over Christmas and New Year but the weather has not stopped us at all. Recently three of us did get rather wet when braving one of the wettest days! But there have been surprisingly few wet Thursdays. During the wet spell we have chosen our walks to keep to paths on firm ground. Our walks on Brimmond Hill have been diverted due to the work on the Western Peripheral Route,
but it is interesting to see the progress and wonder what it will be like when work is completed. We now have a regular group of 6-8 folk, with four trained leaders, who enjoy a sociable walk along the many different routes in and around Kingswells. We return after about an hour with the option of a stop for coffee and a chat. We are always hoping to welcome new walkers so do come and join us – young or old, male or female, friends and family. All you need is sensible, comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather. A hat is advisable. We are also ready to start new walks for beginners. These
would be short gentle walks at a slow pace to last for about half an hour. They will be suitable for people who have been inactive for a while or who have stiff joints or minor health problems. If this is you, please turn up at the same time, 10.30 am on Thursdays and you will have a dedicated and sympathetic leader. We look forward to seeing you! Health walks occur all over Scotland and are supported by Paths For All, Sport Aberdeen and are approved by the NHS. They are free! Any further info may be had by phoning: Liz on 01224 744729, Ann on 01224 749521 or Kenneth on 01224 746658
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News from Councillor Delaney... Welcome to 2016, another unknown quantity which will no doubt bring with it the usual mix of positive experiences along with some which are less so! Every year brings a different mix to every one of us, but most of all I wish you good health and happiness for the year ahead.
raised my concerns with First over the timing of this session as an afternoon on a working day is not ideal, nor is it helpful to hold it in advance of their article in Kingswells News.
2016 has got off to a very busy start, so much so that I need to restrict myself to just a few points which I hope will be of interest to you, the first being buses. I’ve been deeply disappointed by one delay after another in getting the X17 into the Park & Ride but I’m assured the works needed to make this happen are about to start. I appreciate this will only benefit those of you who can easily access the Park & Ride but it’s positive nonetheless.
As a result of the representations I made on this, First have kindly agreed to hold a follow up session on 17th February from 16.30 – 20.00 at Kingswells Community Centre. They say they are open minded about how to make the service work better so we have to take that at face value. However, I find it somewhat obtuse to ask for your views on the X40 without offering you any details of what their future plans might be, so hopefully they will be a bit more upfront as to what the options (if any) are, when they hold this second session, especially as the changes are set to be introduced in mid April.
Changes are also proposed to the X40 route, but these are currently unspecified. I have met twice with FirstAberdeen in recent weeks regarding this. As I write this, I’m aware of a planned drop in session to be held on the afternoon of 4th February to listen to the views of local residents. My understanding is that no specific proposals will be on the table at this meeting. I have
First have historically showed contempt towards their customers at previous “consultations”, a point I took care to remind them of recently. However, despite my misgivings with regard to the process being followed, I would still encourage people to come along. You never know, they may even take the most workable ideas and incorporate them into their plans.
Drop In Session to Discuss Bus Service Kingswells Community Centre 17th of Feb First Aberdeen is looking to make changes to bus services in the Kingswells area. We would like to hear your feedback on current services as well as some proposals to change services. First will hold a further drop-in session
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at Kingswells Community Centre on Wednesday 17th February from 16:30 to 20:00. Please come along and share your views. You can also send feedback to customer. services@firstgroup.com or call First on 01224 650 000. Kingswells Community Council would also like your feedback. Email kcc@kwells.org or visit http://www.kwells.org/first-busconsultation/
Although I do my best to convey the concerns raised by residents about the X40 I really need your help on this one as this needs to come from you, not me. Please do come along and make a positive contribution to the debate. I was pleased to see the resurfacing work on the Kingswells bypass happen so quickly after faults were discovered, but the timing was unfortunate being so close to Christmas and the disruption was severe. The lack of lighting and the cones left on the section of this road at the new junction were causing serious concern, but thankfully the lights were on in a matter of days after I raised the matter. Safety concerns had been raised in respect of damage to the pavement on the bridge on Kingswells Crescent, especially in respect of the possibility of someone falling into the burn after the high water levels we’ve seen recently. The area was immediately made safe until a permanent repair could be done. There were also real concerns over people losing their footing on the footbridge over the burn behind the Pharmacy. This repair will hopefully also be completed by the time you read this.
There were also some issues at the Den View development some weeks ago regarding construction works outwith permitted hours. We saw the same problem at the new entrance to Prime Four. These guys know full well that their hours of construction are specified, yet they choose to show complete contempt for the local community. Needless to say, both instances were nipped in the bud. Finally, returning to buses, the bus shelter at Kingswells Church is due to be replaced within the next few months. It’s well past its sell by date and in need of major repairs, but thankfully the Council has decided to replace it. I’ve also requested that sides be fitted to the bus shelter at Derbeth to shield against the weather. This has been agreed but there’s no timescale for the works. As always, please get in touch to raise any concerns you may have. Councillor Steve Delaney Home Tel: 01224 694469 Work Tel: 01224 346614 Email: sdelaney@aberdeencity.gov.uk Web: www.delaney.org.uk Facebook: CllrDelaney Twitter: CllrDelaney
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BucksburnAcademy news - jan ‘16
Christmas Fayre 2015 Our annual Christmas Fayre took place on 5th December. Organised by the Friends of the ASN Wing and the Parent Council the school was buzzing with a very big turn out from the whole community keen to stock up on Christmas items and support the school. As always our famous Christmas raffle was a big draw with its £1000 top prize. Shoppers were entertained by Highland dance and the school’s very own ukulele orchestra. This year the event raised over £7000 which is an incredible effort and thanks to everyone who was involved in organising and attending the Fayre. The money raised goes towards supporting activities in the ASN Wing and the extra-curricular clubs and activities that the school runs to give our pupils a wide and rich school experience.
Debating Club at BBC Radio Scotland’s “Big Debate” On Friday the 20th of November, five pupils from the Bucksburn Academy Debating Club attended and took part in a BBC Radio Scotland debate in Aberdeen’s Rubislaw Church Centre. Three pupils were selected to ask their questions to the panel, these ranged in topic from international debates, following the terrorist attacks in Paris to more local issues regarding the regeneration of Aberdeen city centre. The debate was lively and thoroughly enjoyed by the pupils and staff in attendance.
Bucksburn Academy first School in Grampian to sign Tobacco Charter Following our participation in a pilot with NHS Grampian providing guidance to young people in educational and youth work setting and the drawing up of a whole campus policy to create a smoke free campus we are delighted to announce that we are the first school to sign up the ASH Scotland Tobacco Charter. This means we have committed to a whole school approach to providing effective education on tobacco and health and recognise the role of all campus users to be positive role models for our pupils.
Sports Successes We have recently had a large number of individual and team sporting successes. Our ASN wing swimming team returned from a national gala with gold, silver and bronze medals, our girls football competed in their first tournament and we have pupils in netball, football, basketball and swimming selected for city, district and national representation. A special mention for Robyn Geddes who recently returned as part of a victorious Scotland archery team from the home nation championships.
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Connecting Kingswells to Union Square up to every 20 minutes* X18: Union Square, Westburn Road, Lang Stracht, Kingswells,Westhill, Elrick and Alford.
Enjoy a stress free shopping trip to Union Square with the X18 Kingswells Park & Ride Service * Mon - Sat between Aberdeen and Westhill
zone 1 dayrider £3.00**
zone 1 megarider
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Valid for 7 days unlimited travel
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P&R dayreturn £2.50. Promotional day return ticket from Kingswells P&R to Union Square. Zone 1 tickets are valid for travel within Aberdeen City centre and as far as Kingswells ** Promotional fare. Usual zone 1 dayrider fare: £3.60. Usual zone 1 megarider fare: £14.25
X18 timetable information is available at:
www.stagecoachbus.com
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Wiltshire Farm Foods
launches new campaign led by Fern Britton Wiltshire Farm Foods, the UK’s leading provider of home-delivered frozen ready meals, is launching a new national advertising campaign starring TV personality, Fern Britton. Richard Speak runs the Ellon office for Wiltshire Farm Foods, and said “It’s fantastic to have Fern Britton starring in our advertising. She joined us all at our conference last year, and I was delighted to meet her. Fern has a real passion for our business, and is genuinely interested in the meals themselves, and the outstanding service we provide.” “She has a busy lifestyle, and I was interested to hear
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she has placed an order herself and tried a number of meals from the range.” As Fern herself says “Wiltshire Farm Foods provides an outstanding service that means everyone can enjoy the convenience of a tasty meal, every day.” That range now includes “Nutritious and Delicious”, meals which are less than 400 calories and low in salt and saturated fat, as well as more than 150 gluten free meals. There are also hearty and mini meals, to provide options for a range of appetites, and a broad selection of desserts and cakes. In total, there are now more than 300 delicious meals available, all cooked fresh then quick frozen to lock the goodness in. What’s more, there is free delivery by friendly local drivers from Wiltshire Farm Foods. Richard and Morag have
been running Wiltshire Farm Foods now for three years out at their base at Balmacassie Commercial Centre (behind Tesco). They currently employ 13 staff who are from Ellon, Peterhead and Aberdeen. Customers can purchase direct from them as they are open 8am-4pm MonFri, but the bulk of the customers have their meals delivered direct to their door. There is a daily drop off to Aberdeen city and other parts of the shire are weekly. The new Delicious and Nutritious range is for the more health conscious, but there is a fab range of foods. Catering for small appetites, gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian, in fact something for everyone old and young. For information about Wiltshire Farm Foods, contact 01358 725 200 or visit: wiltshirefarmfoods.com and ask for a free brochure.
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Being in Aberdeen we’re always on hand to deliver.
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17
Feathered Friends Watching wild birds in your garden is a real delight, and the fact that many of them also help to keep pests at bay for much of the year means that it makes sense to do everything you can to encourage them in. Gardens which are very regimented and sparse are much less likely to prove a haven for wild birds, but if you have a fair number of potential hiding places such as a few good sized shrubs or trees, then so much the better. Obviously trees which provide berries or other fruits are always going to be welcome and, although it means that the display of autumnal berries you looked forward to is slightly foreshortened, you can be sure that the birds eating them will have put them to good use! But what else can you do to encourage your feathered friends into the garden? There is no doubt about it that a source of water really is one of the best features you can have. There are many ornamental birdbaths available, or you can create something cheap and just as effective using a shallow dish with sloping sides. The water should be no deeper than 2� (5 cm) if it is to be safely used by a wide range of birds, and if you do have a deeper container then you should fill the lower depths of it with good sized stones, so that the water is not too deep. Ideally the water should be changed every other day, but at this time of year when freezing temperatures
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prevail, it is essential to make sure that the water does not become frozen over for long periods of time. Don’t forget that other garden water features, including ponds with shallow sloping sides, are perfect for many birds to feed and bathe in. Providing birds with additional food materials is also well worthwhile, but do remember that you need to maintain a constant supply of food or else they may come to rely on something that is not there when they need it most. If you have a problem with squirrels, then feeding the birds can be a real nightmare – but on the whole, the heavily armoured looking wire structures which rather resemble bird cages and hold a central cylinder of peanuts seem to work well. Admittedly these will set you back anything up to £40, but they do seem to do the job. If squirrels are not a problem, you can use many of the cheaper nut feeders with great success, but of course wherever you position the feeder you should ensure that it is well out of range of the local cat population. Site the feeder in an area where a cat cannot leap up at it, or where there are no other plants nearby from which it can make its ambush. Save household scraps for
the birds too; there are lots of things they enjoy eating including apples which have lost their appeal to the household, cooked rice, cheese, old breakfast cereal, raisins and sultanas and, of course, bread. You can also buy fat balls which contain large quantities of mixed seeds, and these can be hung from trees or large shrubs where they will provide a fantastic meal for many birds and, provided you position them in a suitable spot, means that you can also enjoy watching them as they feed. Having once found a blue-tit caught by the foot in a fat ball’s net, I now only buy the net-free fat balls. Luckily I happened to pass the feeder soon after the bird had been trapped, so was able to cut it free, but the outcome could have been tragic! If you wish, and if you have a strong enough stomach, you can buy numerous grubs and larvae which you can feed to the birds. These high protein bird snacks are particularly useful for birds once they start feeding their young in the spring and are best distributed on a bird table or even on a garage roof. They are available by mail order
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from various companies as well as in garden centres and pet shops. If you feel like making or buying a bird table on which to set out the feasts you are supplying, then so much the better. Remember to choose one which is not easily accessible by cats, and position it in a place where you can sit indoors or on a garden seat and watch the birds as they feed and drink. I mainly feed the birds on top of an old, established hedge. It is just tall enough for me to reach its flat clipped top surface and I put out bird food on flat wooden trays – perfect for me to view and impossible for cats to get the wrong idea about who is meant to be eating! Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ - fantastic UK grown vegetable plants of your choice plus weekly advice and tips emails from Pippa , biological controls, fleece, copper tape and lots more besides.
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Let Your God Love You Be silent. Be still. Alone. Empty
Kingswells Church
Before your God.
Dear all,
Ask nothing.
I have been reading more poetry lately. I don’t know if it is something about the Springtime that draws me to poetry, the lighter, more rhythmical, enchanting words of poems.
Be still.
Say nothing. Be silent. Let your God look upon you. That is all.
One poet in particular has stood out to me recently. Edwina Gateley, born in Lancaster England, trained as a teacher and then she received her Masters in Theology from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, where she has spent the last several years working with abused and marginalised women.
God knows.
As we prepare for Holy Week, for that most special time of the year where we remember, celebrate, mourn, and rejoice for the saving act of redemption in and by Jesus Christ. I wanted to share one of Edwina’s poems with you. Now, at first it does not ring loudly of any Holy Week language. It does not speak of a King riding a donkey, or palm branches, there is no mention of last meals together with disciples, or of bread and wine. No mention of deep prayers on last nights of freedom, or the torture and pain that follow. This poem does not even mention the cross, to which we fix our eyes to in the coming weeks, days, hours. No, this poem does not even bring us to an the empty tomb. But, what Edwina’s beautiful words say is this- the meaning of Holy Week, the reason for it all. Why we come back to this week. It is a reminder to let God love us. In Holy Week God reaches down to humanity and cries out, “I love you.” See how much I love you. Look at my hands and feet to see how much I love you.
With that love.
Grace and Peace, Rev. Alisa McDonald
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God understands. God loves you With an enormous love, And only wants To look upon you Quiet. Still. Be. Let your God— Love you.
[Edwina Gateley]
DATES for your DIARY 10 February Ash Wednesday Service 7pm 20 March Palm Sunday Celebration 11am 20 March MESSY CHURCH 3-5pm 24 March Maundy Thursday Service 7pm 25 March Joint Good Friday Service 7:30pm
at South Holburn Church
27 March Easter SundayBreakfast 10:15am
Worship 11:00am
22 April Choir Spring Concert
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Would you like to help us find out why wholegrain food is good for you? We require
Contact
• Healthy men • Aged 40-65 years 2 • Normal to overweight (BMI 19-30 kg/m ) • Not taking hypotensive or antidepressant drugs
Dr Frank Thies 01224 437954/8634 f.thies@abdn.ac.uk
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His Majesty’s Theatre, Music Hall and Lemon Tree, Aberdeen What’s On February Saturday, February 20: Glorious Conference, aiming to give women time and space to grow in their relationship with God and with other Christian women in the North East, with guest speaker Rachel Gardner, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, 11am to 9.30pm. Saturday, February 20: Brand new show from the UK’s favourite Canadian resident Tom Stade: You’re Welcome, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (seated), West North Street, Aberdeen, at 8pm. Saturday, February 20: Starring Welsh superstar Katherine Jenkins and featuring the Aberdeen choir Con Anima, the Lord Provost’s Charitable Trust Concert, supported by BP and in aid of Scottish social care charity Cornerstone, in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, 7.30pm. Tickets to £57 Sunday, February 21: Double BAFTA nominated Iain Stirling is back following four successive sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, with Touchy Feely, in The Lemon Tree Studio, at 7pm. Sunday, February 21: With conductor Garry Walker and violinist Gina McCormack, Aberdeen Sinfonietta perform a programme including works by Malcolm Arnold, Tchaikovsky and Borodin, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm. Tickets (U16s free) Tuesday, February 23: Tron Theatre Company presents Cock, by Mike Bartlett, when the main character is increasingly wracked with indecision about who he is and what he wants, in The Lemon Tree Studio, at 7pm. Wednesday, February 24: The ultimate tribute to one of rock and roll’s most remarkable groups, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac, world tour, in the Music Hall, at 7.30pm. Wed to Sat, February 24 to 27: On their 25th anniversary, Aberdeen’s own Phoenix Theatre presents the North-east Amateur
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Premier of the award-winning musical comedy Legally Blonde, in His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm, 2.30pm Saturday matinee. Thursday, February 25: Sister of the international superstar Dolly Parton, hit recording singer-songwriter and actress Stella Parton in Parton Sings Parton, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm. Thursday, February 25: Members of the BBC acclaimed Transatlantic Sessions, Michael McGoldrick, John McCusker and John Doyle, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (seated), West North Street, doors at 7.30pm. Friday, February 26: Well-known from his frequent television appearances, Irish standup comedian Ed Byrne, with his new show Outside, Looking In, in the Music Hall, at 8pm. Friday, February 26: The original rudeboy and former member of The Specials, Neville Staple now tours with his own band, appearing The Lemon Tree Lounge (standing), West North Street, at 7.30pm. Saturday, February 27: Founding member of pioneering post-rock band Fridge alongside Four Tet’s Kieran Hebden and one half of Silver Columns with Johnny Lynch aka The Pictish Trail, Adem celebrates his first solo album of original material for nine years, seconds are acorns, in The Lemon Tree Lounge, West North Street, at 8.30pm. Saturday, February 27: Scottish Ensemble present Quintets, a programme of works by Mozart, Brahams and Martin Suckling, in the Music Hall, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm. Tickets (U16s free) Saturday, February 27: Known for not following the rules of stand-up comedy, Ed Aczel with his news show The Random Flapping of a Butterfly’s Wings, in The Lemon Tree Studio, at 7pm. Sunday, February 28: Strictly Come Dancing’s Brendan Cole with his latest show A Night to Remember, in the Music Hall, at 7.30. Mon, February 29 to Sat, March 5: Based on the smash-hit movie, the feel-good intn’l hit sensation, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, starring Duncan James as Tick, in His Majesty’s
Theatre, Aberdeen, at 7.30pm, with 2pm Thursday and 2.30pm Saturday matinees. Monday, February 29: One of the foremost pianists of her age and now heralded as today’s leading exponent of the works of J S Bach, Canadian Angela Hewitt presents Bach Masterworks: The Art of Fugue, in the Music Hall, at 7.30pm.
What’s On March Tues to Sat March 1 to 5: As part of the spring A Play, a Pie and a Pint season, Aberdeen Performing Arts and Glasgow Lunchtime Theatre present Angel and the Manse, by George Docherty, in The Lemon Tree Lounge (seated), at 6pm Tuesday to Friday and 1pm on Thursday and Saturday. Wednesday, March 2: Swedish band Sabaton, and Scotland’s own Alestorm, with guests Bloodhound, in the Music Hall, at 6.30pm. Thursday, March 3: Triple G Music present hard rock band The Cult, who gained a dedicated following in the UK in the mid-1980s with singles such as She Sells Sanctuary, before breaking mainstream in the US in the late 1980s, in the Music Hall, doors at 7pm. Friday, March 4: Heat up a chilly wintry night with an evening of traditional Scottish dancing with Shindig, in the Music Hall, at 8pm. Fri and Sat March 4 and 5: Tortoise in a Nutshell presents The Lost Things, a dark fairytale set in a fantastical world where nothing is quite what it seems, for ages nine plus, in The Lemon Tree Studio, West North Street, Aberdeen, at 11am and 1.30pm on Friday and 11.30am and 2.30pm on Saturday.
Why you should book your seat at the table
A Message from Catherine Robertson Ross MBE
“I have known Catherine Robertson Ross MBE for many years. During this time I have seen her in action on a number of occasions raising funds for various Service charities and more generally, supporting current or retired Servicemen and women in many different ways.
Thank you for taking the time to read the information on this wonderful dinner onboard HMY Britannia on Saturday, 5th March 2016.
When it comes to supporting the Armed Forces, Catherine is the most committed individual I have met in my 30 years of service. Helping disadvantaged Servicemen and Servicewomen is her passion, it is her life. For Catherine it is not merely about raising funds, it is far more. She gives up her home so that Service people and their families might enjoy holidays; she travels the length and breadth of the United Kingdom just to be with Servicemen who need a helping hand; she takes Servicemen to and from medical appointments; she networks feverishly with influential people and organisations, never for herself but always for those who have served their country. One story perhaps best describes what Catherine stands for. She made a promise to a very badly injured Royal Marine that she would help him climb Ben Nevis if his injuries ever stabilised enough to allow him to have a go. Sure enough, three years later and in foul weather, Catherine and a group of Royal Marines made the climb up and down Ben Nevis, allowing this injured gentleman to fulfil his ambition in spite of significant physical difficulties. When Catherine makes a promise, she sees it through. Catherine is also very impartial in her attitude towards the Royal Navy, the British Army and the Royal Air Force. She will support anyone in difficulty no matter what his or her background. Catherine is relentless in her pursuit of offering kindness and material assistance to Servicemen, especially those who have fallen on hard times. She is fiercely proud of the United Kingdom’s Armed Forces and all that they have done for our nation. She is equally determined that they rightfully receive the support and respect that she feels they deserve and she has dedicated her whole life to this cause. We are very lucky to have benefited from her boundless and unceasing energy, compassion and commitment.”
Air Commodore Andy Hine OBE MA RAF
It has been one of the greatest privileges of my life to have been made to feel part of the family that is the Royal Marines. Those who serve do so with great courage and commitment. Along the way I have gained many sons who have continued our relationship long after they have left the Corps. I also have a close relationship with 45 Commando RM, where a few years ago a garden of remembrance and reflection was built, I was delighted to help with this project. This garden is a place where the marines can spend time, as well as remember those who have fallen in the service of our Nation. Many of those who’s names are on the memorial I knew well. Recently I stood there with Colour Sgt Paul Barrett who was profoundly wounded in Afghanistan. As we looked at the names on the memorial whom we both knew Paul said, “Catherine, my name should be on there” Paul then said, “I owe it to those marines who did not come home to live the very best life that I can” and he does, Paul Barrett is a credit to the Corps, his family and those of us who care deeply about him. If you ask Paul Barrett who has helped him through his recovery plan, he will quickly say the Corps, family, friends and the RMCTF. Ladies and Gentleman by attending this special dinner, you will be helping Royal Marines like Paul Barrett to move forward onto the life they so richly deserve. I believe they were and in some cases have sacrificed much in our country’s name, I also believe they have earned the right to our help. Thank You.
Catherine
Ticket Price is £1000 Includes overnight accommodation in a 5* Edinburgh Hotel. Travel to and from your hotel to the Ship. The enviable experience of dining on the Royal Yacht Britannia
Catherine R. Ross MBE
To book your ticket/table Tel: 07879 854 927 Email: cylross@aol.com
A donation will be made to the Royal Marine Charitable Trust Fund. A silent auction will also be conducted to help raise valuable funds.
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Palmiers These delicious sweet pastries are easy to make using just a sheet of readyrolled puff pastry and caster sugar. Serve with coffee, or sandwich together in pairs with jam and whipped double cream for an indulgent dessert. Makes approx 28 Ready in 1 hour 1 x 375g pack ready-rolled puff pastry 4 tbsp caster sugar 1 tsp cinnamon (optional) Unroll the puff pastry sheet and trim the edges to a neat rectangle, if necessary. Sprinkle over 2 tbsp of the caster sugar and half the cinnamon (if using). Using a rolling pin, gently roll over the sugar to lightly press it into the pastry.
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Fold in the long sides of the pastry rectangle halfway towards the centre. Sprinkle over a little more caster sugar and press down with the rolling pin. Fold each long side in again to meet in the centre. Sprinkle with the rest of the sugar and cinnamon (if using), then fold the pastry in half lengthways to form one long strip. Transfer to a board and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 220C/425F/Gas 7. Dampen a large baking sheet by sprinkling with cold water. Cut across the chilled pastry length into about 28 thin slices. Place the slices, cut-side down, on the baking sheet. Flatten each one slightly with the palm of your hand. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until crisp and golden brown. Turn each slice over with a palette knife halfway through cooking. Transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool. TIP : For savoury palmiers, spread the pastry with a little pesto sauce, then scatter over finely grated Parmesan cheese instead of the sugar.
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25
News from Councillor Cameron... A944 and Surrounding Rural Roads Speed Limits Not long after I was elected to Aberdeen City Council in 2012 as one of the Councillors representing the Kingswells, Sheddocksley and Summerhill Ward the start of a series of changes to road speed limits as described in the title began to occur. Initially there was the reduction of the National Speed Limit on the dual carriageway (A944) from 70 mph to 50 mph. I know of no rural dual carriageway in the country where this has occurred. Admittedly the Kingsway in Dundee had a 50 mph limit at that time and now has a 40 mph limit, however it is not a rural road but rather an urban road. Shortly afterwards proposals for the speed limit on the C89C from Kingswells to Cults to be reduced to 40 mph from the
National Speed Limit of 60 mph. I, with the support of Grampian Police, opposed this move but this was defeated in committee. The Grampian Police objection had, as one consideration, the difficulty of enforcement. My objection to the move included the Police point, there was no evidence of the 60 mph speed limit being responsible for accidents but rather driver behaviours and lastly, but by no means least, that this in addition to the reduced speed limit on the A944 would develop into a creeping campaign by some Councillors to reduce the speed limit on all Aberdeen City rural roads to 40 mph maximum! My final concern would appear to be coming to pass, the A944 now is moving towards a 40 mph speed limit from Hazlehead through to Westhill/Cairnie Road
WORDWHEEL
Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel.
TARGET Excellent: 40 or more words Good: 32 words Fair: 27 words
C
N 26
S
E
T T
Answer: CHESTNUT
H
U
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Councillor David J Cameron email Dacameron@ aberdeencity.gov.uk mobile: 07876760760 office: 01224 346612
nt
THISTLE
this issue reflects the Community Council’s majority view but I would go further. I have previously stated, and continue to believe, that the rural roads within Aberdeen City Boundaries should have speed limits consistent with UK National Standards. Not only is this a common sense approach but it will reduce the confusion which has currently been introduced whereby travelling from Aberdeen City into Aberdeenshire speed limits change for no good reason.
Ab
junction (the Aberdeen City Boundary). Currently from Hazlehead (Crematorium turn-off the speed limit is 50 mph through until just short of the Kingswells roundabout and thereafter it is 40 mph. From this point you enter Aberdeenshire where the speed limits are different and generally align with UK National Standard Limits. All of this causes confusion to motorists and potentially could result in increased accidents. Driver behaviour has not been tackled, undertaking is still prevalent on the A944, rural roads which morph from Aberdeen City into Aberdeenshire have a sudden and inexplicable change of speed limit and confusion continues for road users. Kingswells Community Council debated the issue recently when the latest restrictions were proposed to the A944 and a large majority of the Community Councillors voted against the proposals. My position on
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27
Kingswells SWI Members enjoyed a buffet supper & a fun filled Christmas party for the December meeting January President Kathleen Hendry welcomed Dorathy Taylor and Trish Howard who entertained members with a Trip down Memory Lane in Doric
Alison McLeod
Afterschool Football
Kingswells Community Centre Monday 2.00-2.30 3.30-4.15
Tuesday 3.30-4.15
Pre School
Friday 9.30-10.00 10.00-10.30 2.00-2.45
P1/2
P1/2
Airyhall Community Centre Monday 9.30-10.00
Wednesday 9.30-10.00 Pre School 1.30-2.15 Pre School Plus 3.30-4.15 P1/2 4.15-5.00 P1/2
Pre School
Pre School
Tiny tots Pre School Plus
Thursday 9.30-10.00 Tiny Tots 1.45-2.15 Pre School 3.30-4.15 P1/2 4.15-5.00 P1/2
Westdyke Leisure Centre
Friday
1.00-1.30pm Pre School
availability - book now! for august 2015 session
For more info contact Alison McLeod on 07824 631 221
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Carrot & Coriander Soup 1st A Nicol 2nd M Farquhar 3rd A Mitchell Knitted Tea Cosy 1st M Sheran
PODIATRIST & CHIROPODIST
TRACEY WHITE, HILARY BLAIN, JOHN DARLINGTON & DONNA MACKAY BSc HONS, MCHS
2nd C Shand 3rd M Bruce
HOME VISITS AVAILABLE
CHIROPRACTOR
MATTHEW BARKS
MCHIRO, MRCC
MASSAGE THERAPIST
CLAIRE KELLY DSM, DOSM, MASC, SMTO
New member welcome Meetings are held in the Kingswells Church hall on the second Tuesday of the month - new members welcome.
DIETITIAN
MARIA DOW MSC, RD, MBD
COUNSELLOR
LINDSAY GARDNER BA HONS, PGDIP CC
BANCHORY PODIATRY & CHIROPODY IS NOW PART OF WESTHILL HEALTH & THERAPIES PRACTICE TEL 01330 825333 (BANCHORY APPOINTMENTS)
WESTHILL SHOPPING CENTRE
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Local Woodlands Are you a regular user of Countesswells and Foggieton woods? I am trying to gage interest in starting a Community Woodland Group which would promote the woods for all users, and assist the Forestry
YOGA m-07527 801575 or e-mail brittastahlmann@googlemail.com
Mondays at Kingswells Church Hall, 19:30-21:00 Suitable for all abilities. Please contact Britta for further information, see contact details above. 28
01224 740885
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Commission in the many aspects of management. This would involve such activities as: path improvement, wildlife conservation measures such as bird boxes, litter picks, removing rhododendrons and other invasive species, and tree planting where
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appropriate. It would also be fun to run other informative and educational events such as history, tree and wildlife walks, etc. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact Claire Marsden on 07789 316493
Compu-Care
Call Neil 07539-462-064 Laptop & PC upgrades/ repairs/internet Collect & return service New computers available Laptop and PC training available £20 per hour
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29
Planning for the time when independence ends By Kate McLelland It’s one of those life-changing moments. You’ve just received a phone call telling you that an elderly relative has been admitted to hospital with a fall injury or an illness from which they are unlikely to fully recover. You may have been anticipating this day for a number of years as you watched your loved one become less and less able to cope. But it can still come as a shock to realise that the normal things you did to help, such as popping round to do some housework or shopping, will no longer be enough. There are two options available to families facing this crucial moment. Either arrange for your relative to be admitted to a residential care home, where they can receive round-the-clock attention, or make space in your own house so they can live with you. Where a parent is concerned, there’s often a strong feeling of guilt associated with these decisions. It’s highly likely that you’ve never discussed what will happen when your mum or dad become unable to look after themselves, and there may have been an unspoken assumption that when the time comes, they will move in with you. But is your home actually suitable to shelter and care for a vulnerable older person with medical problems and/or limited mobility? Few houses are designed with disability in mind, so adapting your home needs careful thought. It’s also sensible to plan ahead, as someone who is reasonably mobile at the moment may not be able to move so freely in a couple of years. Will the stairs be a problem? Unless you happen to live in a bungalow, the first thing you’ll need to consider is whether or not your loved one will be able to use the stairs. Last year, Age UK commissioned
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research into the cost of installing a stair lift and found that the price varied between £4,940 and £5,469 for a straight staircase, with approximately £500 added for a curved stair lift. The alternative to a stair lift is to reconfigure the ground floor of your house, although this can prove costly as you will not only need to find suitable space for a bedroom, but create toilet and bathing facilities as well. Sleeping arrangements If mobility is a problem it’s essential that you provide a bedroom with an en-suite toilet (and preferably a shower, too). Most elderly people need to go to the bathroom several times in the night and the further they have to walk, the greater the chance they will trip or fall. Alternatively, you could consider providing a commode for night-time use, with various models costing between £25 and £180. A reasonably-sized bedroom is essential: at the very least you’ll need space for a single bed, a stable armchair with good back support and a small table, as well as storage for any equipment that might be required. Make sure there are no rugs or other obstacles on the floor that could cause trip hazards. It’s particularly important that the area between
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the toilet and the bed is kept clear, and best to position any objects with sharp edges away from this route in case of falls. The use of bedrails is not recommended, as in recent cases they have caused injury and even death. If you have concerns about your relative’s welfare at night, install a baby alarm so you will hear if they need help. Adapting your furniture A seat at normal height may be too low for somebody who has mobility issues, so you might want to consider buying raisers (around £40 for a pack of four) for the items of furniture they will use. As the name suggests, raisers simply fit onto the feet of beds and chairs to add height. A wing chair with arms – such as a classic Queen Anne fireside chair - is ideal for the lounge. Alternatively you can buy a specialist model, made with anti-bacterial fabric. This chair, available from
www.nationalofficefurnituresupplies.co.uk, is waterproof and stain-resistant with adjustable handrails and costs around £250. If your relative is a wheelchair user you’ll also need to think about widening doorways and installing ramps. Don’t forget that some mobility devices may be available through the NHS, either free or at a reduced cost (although you may have to wait to obtain them). If all of this sounds daunting, you’ll find there are many agencies and voluntary organisations who can help. Go online to sites such as www. myagingparent.com, get in touch with Age UK (www.ageuk.org or call 0800 169 2081) or speak to your GP or local authority. Finally, if you sense that your relative is approaching the time when they will need constant support, don’t wait until things reach a crisis point. By putting sensible plans in place now you can ease the transition, saving you both a lot of worry and stress later on.
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Remember to lock your cars, garages and sheds... Firstly all officers within the Bucksburn Community Policing Team would like to wish all readers a very prosperous New Year. Whilst the festive period has now passed and we all begin to return to normal daily routines involving travelling to and from places of work, Police Scotland would like to remind motorists to remember that the spells of cold and wet weather currently being experienced can introduce areas of icy or wet road surfaces. Please take care when driving in such adverse weather conditions to reduce the potential for road accidents occurring. Your Local Policing Team would also like to take this opportunity to remind all home owners in the Kingswells and surrounding areas to be extra vigilant in respect of their home and vehicle security. There have been a number of recent incidents of thefts from vehicles, houses and garages and following police investigations being undertaken it has been established that in the vast majority of occasions overnight crimes occur due to properties and vehicles being inadvertently left insecure. Taking a couple of minutes to ensure your car and front and back doors are locked is the most effective way to reduce the risk of becoming the next victim of a sneak-in theft. These basic security measure will in most cases prevent such thefts. For more in-depth home and vehicle security advice, please contact the Crime Reduction officers operating within Police Scotland, Aberdeen, who will be delighted to assist with all aspects of crime prevention advice. Alternatively view the relevant information contained within the Police Scotland website
Indoor Carpet Bowling Come along and give carpet bowls a try... indoor carpet bowling held at the Community Centre. The group is needing to swell it’s numbers so they can have a decent game every week. No experience required just come and give it a go. They do have spare bowls and nothing in the way of special clothing or equipment is required. In the first instance to gain more info and words of encouragement contact : Ian Sim Tel: 01224 741178 Mob: 07535221718
Susan Taylor Sergeant , Bucksburn Community Policing Team
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Myself and a few cycling buddies are taking on the challenge of cycling 100 km during the night in aid of Women’s cancers. Lots of us have experience of losing friends and family to this life-threatening illness and Val was a particularly dear friend who fought so bravely. She gave so much of her time to the local community, was well-loved and will be remembered always for caring about others even though she was struggling with the disease for several years. If you remember Val and would like to support the fight against cancer in her memory please visit my link at www.justgiving.com/GillianDobeson1/. Any donations will be greatly appreciated.
2016 will be a SensationALL Year! 2016 has already been a busy year for SensationALL SC043156 with our existing services being improved and new activities and partnerships being created. hank you to all those who took the time to fill out our Save Old School House (OSH) survey. We had a great response with 94% in favour of SensationALL managing the buiding and services and only 6% being unsure. 100% would like to see the buildings remain in the community for the community. Our proposal was submitted to Aberdeenshire Council in February and we hope to hear the decision by March or April 2016. Have a look on our website for the outcome. If SensationALL are successful with the Community Asset Transfer of OSH we would very much like to encourage the community to be a part of what we do and how the building is used. By improving the building we will make it more pleasant and useable for the groups who already use it and new groups will be encouraged to make use of the improved facilities for any number of activities or age groups. SensationALL will use and manage the building but there will be plenty of opportunity for community use including some of our equipment, such as the soft play room. One of our key services will be the addition of an inclusive out of school
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and breakfast club which we know is much needed in Westhill. Another opportunity to get involved in SensationALL and the OSH building is that by changing our constitution we now have a free membership system in place. Members of SensationALL, individuals, organisations or businesses, will be entitled to vote on what happens in the charity as well as plans for our future use of the OSH. If you are interested in becoming a member then please get in touch with us to find out more. Please come along and join our mixed, inclusive and friendly Community Choir on a Wednesday evening, 6:30pm at the Old School House, Westhill. The group is aimed at all ages and abilities. We sing, make music and have fun in a supportive group environment led by a music therapist where songs can be communicated by singing, using actions and signing as well as musical intruments. VOUNTEERS NEEDED! Do you have an hour or more to spare and would like to make a difference in a fun and friendly environment? Then we would love to hear from you! Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, gain or share new skills and get satisfaction from helping others. Please contact us by email info@ sensationall.org.uk or by phone (01224) 746699
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Kingswells Community Centre The Heart of the Village Food Bank
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Thanks to everyone for donating to the food bank so far. We hope to get it picked up at the end of every month so all your donations greatly appreciated. Defibrillator We now have our defibrillator up on the wall in the main centre which is registered for anyone to use if need be. Our Annual General Meeting
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Our AGM is on 19th April at 7.00pm. Please come along and support your local community centre. If you would be interested in joining the committee please pop into the centre for an application form. NEW CLASSES We have a new Metafit class started in the main centre on a Thursday at 7pm. For more information call us on 01224 741806 Toddler Group We have a toddlers group which runs in the main centre on a Tuesday and Thursday from 9.30-11.30 If you are interested just come along on either morning.
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Kingswells Primary News Community Christmas concert at Kingswells School Kingswells School enjoyed welcoming members of our community into school on 8th December to see our Primary 6 and 7 Christmas concert, “Stars come out at night.” Senior Citizens enjoyed a cup of tea and a mince pie before seeing the children’s performance. They were given a Christmas gift by our pupils after the show. The audience had high praise for our budding stars. Our pupils look forward to performing for our community and hope they will attract a big audience again in December 2016. Bulb planting in the community Primary 4/5G/H enjoyed having the opportunity to support an exciting community event in December. They participated with other local volunteers, Councillors and Aberdeen City council workers to plant over 2000 daffodil and crocus bulbs. We will look forward to seeing their efforts bloom in Spring! “I thought it was fun and interesting.” Connie Hunter “It was great fun and you could get your hands messy.” Andrew Marshall “It was good that we got to work in groups and get messy!” Callum Seguin “I thought it was very fun and I liked stamping in the mud.” Olivia Christie “Kingswells pupils were a very diligent group of children, who completed the work so quickly,
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us adults were left catching up.” Claire Burt (Kingswells Community Council) Nick Sharratt Kingswells School are lucky enough to have Nick Sharratt, the renowned author and illustrator working with our pupils. Nick visited us again on 23rd and 24th November where he led a whole school assembly, held a book sale/ signing and worked with our Primary 3, 4 and 5 pupils. Nick worked with pupils to decide upon themes for our very own book. At assembly, Nick gave the whole school a sneak preview of his forthcoming book, “The Cat and the King.” Last year, P4 had worked with him to develop ideas for the characters of Christopher and Cressida and Nick was keen to keep the children involved. Having run a competition for P2s, P3s and P4s to draw a portrait of the Cat and the King, Nick announced that Ava Morrice’s illustration would be included in the final book. He read two chapters of the story and showed us the page featuring Ava’s drawing. “The Cat and the King is likely to published in Autumn. Nick is also working with the school to create characters to accompany our new school aims. Here are some of our initial ideas. Prayer Space Prayer space is underway this term. Our pupils have time to reflect on all that they are thankful for, think about their wishes for the wider world and the hopes they have for others who are less fortunate. There are a variety of activities on
offer ranging from a quiet, reflective zone to writing wishes in the sand and, as usual, our pupils are really engaging in the different tasks with enthusiasm and enjoyment. Life and Ethos Assemblies Every Thursday we invite a speaker to come and share information about an experience, job or involvement with a charity with our pupils. This has been very successful over the years and is popular with the pupils. We are looking for new speakers, if you would be willing to help us out or know someone who could, please get in touch with Mrs McNair, Depute Head Teacher on 01224 740262. PTA Events Our PTA are working hard, organising events for our pupils and families and we thank them for all their efforts. On 12th December, an enjoyable outing to Pittodrie was had by some of our pupils and their families, where Aberdeen played against Hearts, winning 1-0. New reading books funded by Apache Kingswells School were delighted to receive a very generous donation of £2000 worth of new reading materials from Apache. The new set of books has been very much enjoyed by our pupils. “I think they are really exciting to read!” Peter Laing, P5 “I have found them very enjoyable.” Leo Goss, P5
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Springtime
Bees Birds Buds Cyclamens Daffodils Dandelions Easter Equinox Frogs Grass Green Growth Irises Lilies March Nesting Planting
Rain Renewal Season Sunshine
Tulips Warmth Wet
Find the names associated with spring in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase
Short of time? Too busy? Need an extra pair of hands? Overwhelmed? Goshen Lifestyle - can take care of your day-to-day needs, errands and chores. We offer: Assisted Living Services Home care and Support for mum and dad; the elderly and family; Personal care (Baths, showers, night settling); Companionship and Entertainment; Meal service- Preparation and serving; Prescribed and Dispensed Medication prompting; Grocery shopping; Arranging social and medical appointments; Concierge/ Transportation services; Overnight care/Sleep ins/Respite Care and Domestic Assistance around the home Errand Services Door to door transportation to your appointments; Prescription collection; Receiving home deliveries; Key holding service to admit and supervise workmen; Dropping off and picking up post and dry-cleaning etc and Gift buying Whatever your needs, we have a solution Contact us on: Tel: 01224 766634 Mobile: 07775 675 703 Email: bostol@goshenheath.co.uk www.goshenhealth.co.uk/lifestyle Registered with the Care Inspectorate CS 2015338815 38
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A New Year Brings
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Voucher can be used once only and only one voucher per table. Voucher cannot be exchanged for cash. Please Community News when responding to advertisers thank you Valid : from 07 Feb thrudotomention 29 FebKingswells 2016 Not including Valentine’s Day 20% discount will be-applied to “food” only.