Web kcn issue 22 dec '16 jan17

Kings wells

Community News a gazette magazine

Issue 22 Dec ‘16- Jan ‘17 Free bi-monthly magazine

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Kingwells ABC are back competing in amateur boxing competitions and have 10 amateur boxers registered to fight at junior and senior level. We will be competing at all major competitions throughout this season. We also have a number of other boxers who although not eligible to compete this year are in training for competing next year.

Last month they competed at their first show this term with all their boxers winning. Miles Robertson from Kingswells won his first junior contest and another local lad Syballa Gear also won beating the current north east district champion in his weight category. This outlines the high standard of the training being received at Kingswells ABC. All Kingswells ABC coaches have competed previously at amateur and/ or professional level.

Martin Harvey (Coach), John Leys (Head Coach), Syballa Gear (Kingswells Senior Boxer who also recently won) and Elias Gear (Lochend ABC, Edinburgh)

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A few of the club members and head coach John Leys to the far right.

Kingswells ABC

Kingswells ABC this month did a sponsored 5K run around the kingswells area for the junior boxers to raise funds for new equipment for them and their progression. The club are currently looking to hold future fund raisers in the local area and longer term we aim to be holding boxing shows to showcase the local talent.

To improve facilities at the club they have recently taken receipt of a new 16ft training boxing ring. Kingswells ABC cater for boxing training at all levels and any individual whether it is boxing or just general fitness they are interested in.

Kingswells ABC are open on Monday and Wednesday Evenings from 6:15 to 7:30pm at the village hall on old skene road in Kingswells, and are looking at extending these hours and introducing weekend training sessions in 2017.

If anyone would like to try out the club then feel free to attend on the above noted times. If you would like any further information about the club then please contact any of the following: Tel: Raymond (Child Protection Officer) on 07445181148 / Tel: Billy on 07706022385 E-mail: kingswellsboxingclub@gmail.com Always on the look out for sponsorship to aid with the equipment and kit for the team - if this would be of interest please get in touch on the above numbers.

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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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Merry Christmas ...

Goodness where has the year gone? This issue of the magazine is packed full of gift ideas, interesting articles about what is going on in the community. A few puzzles and all our regular advertisers.

So, have you got all the presents bought, wrapped and cards written? Postal dates to the right so you don’t miss anything. I’ve got the cards, bought one present and had a wee look around to see what’s on offer but that’s about it. I am very much a last minute person. Did black Friday help you with your presents this year or did you get caught up in buying things you really don’t need because you thought it was too good an offer to not buy?

I’ve been invited to spend Christmas Day at my brother’s house, which is lovely. No cooking - only one request I make a pavlova! Easy. When the children were younger I didn’t like to go out and about on Christmas Day and tended to have all the family round to mine. That meant present wrapping till all hours of the morning. Up with the children and being excited about what Santa had left! My friend Caroline always pops in on Christmas morning and we used to look for a quirky bottle of cider (easier done these days) but alas with the new drink driving laws we just exchange a bottle and the obligatory calendar! In the last thirty years of exchanging calendars we have only given the same one to each other once! It is the easiest but hardest present I have to buy. I would then be in the kitchen for most of the day and when I was ready to sit back and relax everyone would say thanks for a great day and would be off! Boxing day on the other hand is very much leftovers and chocolate and old movies.

Anyway, enough - go grab that cuppa (or glass of mulled wine since it is the season) and enjoy this Christmas magazine. Have a very Merry Christmas everyone.

See you in 2017,

Sue x

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Kingswells Primary News Sponsored Walk On the 31st of October Kingswells School went on a sponsored walk to raise money to put our climbing wall back up. It fell down in strong winds early this year and it is very expensive to put back in position.

P4-P7 went at 9:10am and P1-P3 went at 9:30am. On our walk, we walked up to Dobbies and then did a loop back to Kingswells Primary. We walked through squelchy mud and some people got their feet stuck. They needed help to get their shoes out.

We were allowed to walk in pairs which meant that we could chat and play games like I spy.

We all liked walking in pairs. We also saw some beautiful views as we walked. We hope to have raised lots of money and that our climbing wall will be back in position soon.

By Ellie and Melissa Kingswells Primary School P6 P6 Bulb Planting The primary 6 students in both classes went out at around 10 o’clock on the 26th of October.

We got to choose a partner to walk with and we walked down to Wellside Gardens.

When we arrived, council volunteers were making holes for us to plant bulbs. We got into groups of eleven and had a race to see which group could plant the most bulbs. When the daffodil bulbs ran out we moved up the path and planted crocus bulbs.

The bulbs looked like little onions with a small tooth sticking out of the top. It was great to have group work incorporated with the activity as it made it even more fun.

After an hour or so we had finally finished. We went back to school in our pairs. It was a great experience and we would do it again any time.

By Andrew and Rio P6AG Aberdeen Sports Awards 2016 Every year Aberdeen City Council hosts the Aberdeen Sports Awards in partnership with Active Aberdeen. This year they were on Thursday the 6th of October at the AECC, Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre. Kingswells Primary school was lucky enough to be nominated for the award Primary School of the Year which, in the end, we won. We went up onto the stage, all five of us, Jake, Connie, Olivia, Tom and myself, Matthew to collect our award, a wonderful glass trophy in the shape of a diamond more or less. After having a small chat with the man up on stage we all went into a separate room to get an official photograph taken for the newspaper and get an interview from a man in the same room.

After our photo and interview, Olympic silver medallist David Florence gave a speech to everyone who was there and all of the children from Kingswells, including a few adults, got David Florence’s signature and a chance to hold his medal. In the end it was a very fun and successful night out for Kingswells School.

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Rotary International Would you like to be part of an organisation which supports the needs of communities locally, nationally and internationally?

If so, becoming a member of Westhill & District Rotary Club could be the thing for you.

We are involved with organising Young Musician and Young Speaker competitions, Youth Leadership camps, Senior Citizens Christmas dinner as well as other activities. We are also involved in various local galas and assist at some Highland Games. Wherever there is a disaster (eg earthquakes overseas, flooding at home) the Rotary family supplies aid.

Membership of our Club is open to any person regardless of age, sex or creed. The only requirement is a desire to be of service in the community. Whilst most of our members come from Westhill a number come from the wider District. Look at our Website and Facebook pages to find out more.

If what we do is of interest then get in touch, you would be made most welcome. Service, Fellowship and Fun are the bywords.

We meet every week, 6.15pm on a Thursday, at the Broadstraik Inn in Westhill.

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Mincemeat and Apple Mini Strudels These delicious sweet and buttery mini fruity strudels make great festive puds over Christmas. You can prepare them a few hours in advance, cover and chill in the fridge and bake just before serving.

Makes 8 Ready in 35 minutes 8 tbsp luxury mincemeat 1 small cooking apple, peeled and coarsely grated 8 sheets filo pastry, each measuring 18x31cm 50g unsalted butter, melted Filo pastry stars, to decorate (see Tip) Icing sugar, to dust Whipped cream or brandy butter, to serve 1 Preheat the oven to 200C, Fan 180C, Gas Mark 6. Mix together the mincemeat and grated apple. Take one sheet of filo pastry and brush with some of the melted butter.

2 Place a spoonful of the mincemeat mixture along one short end of the sheet of buttered pastry. Fold in a little of the pastry along each long side then roll up to enclose the filling.

Place seam side down on a large greased baking tray.

3 Repeat with the rest of the pastry sheets and mincemeat mixture to make 8 mini strudels in total. Brush with any remaining melted butter.

4 Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until the pastry is crisp and golden. Cool for 5 minutes then halve and serve with filo pastry stars and dust liberally with icing sugar. Serve with whipped cream or brandy butter.

TIP To make the stars, fold a spare sheet of filo pastry into three. Stamp out tiny stars using a small starshaped cookie cutter and brush with a little melted butter. Bake as above but for only 4-5 minutes until crisp and golden.

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BucksburnAcademy news Nov 2016

And Megan Hunter S2 writes :

ICT Intergenerational Project Hannah Shearer S2 writes : Recently I have taken part in an Intergenerational project teaching over 50s about technology. We worked in groups or pairs to prepare a lesson on a specialised subject within technology. Our group chose to do contacts and messages as our subject.

Over our three weeks of preparation we made leaflets and certificates for them to take home.

We also used the Apple TV in the library, so I could show what I was doing on my phone on the big screen. I thought this project was a great idea and we got great feedback from the people we worked with. They seemed to really enjoy themselves. I even managed to persuade my Grandma to come! The apple TV worked really well as they could see the icons clearer and the leaflets were handy because if they ever forgot they had them to remind themselves. I thought that contacts and messages was a good subject to pick as there was no downloading of any apps needed. Other groups in my class prepared lessons about Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, FaceTime and Twitter. I really enjoyed myself and I would love to do it again!

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Recently our class 2A1 have been working on an intergenerational project aiming to teach the over 50’s community in Bucksburn about technology. We were teaching about Instagram which is a social media platform where you can post pictures and see what friends and family have been up to. We spent three weeks preparing and researching the app so when the day finally arrived we were ready to answer any questions. We had one person who wanted to learn how to use Instagram and so we spent our time explaining in detail about how to download Instagram from the play store and how to create an account before finally teaching him how to use the app. We taught him how to make the account private, how to find friends and how to post pictures. All in all we think it was a very successful project that helped us to speak to older members of the community and develop our communication skills.

Keep up to date with Twitter And don’t forget you can get the very latest updates on school life and what is happening across the subjects on Twitter. You can follow the school at Bucksburn Academy@ BucksburnAcad

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Latest News

Readers are reminded that a full account of Community Council business and other local and Aberdeen news is available on our website at http://www.kwells.org

Football Stadium Aberdeen Football Club (AFC) held a public exhibition at Pittodrie on 24 November to reveal its proposals for Kingsford. Information from the exhibition can be found on AFC’s website at http://www.afc.co.uk/stadium A formal planning application will follow before the end of 2016. Kingswells Community Council (KCC) will then decide whether to support or object to the application based on how well the plans address the concerns that AFC asked KCC to send to them. Benefits to the local community will be a key consideration.

The results of a survey of Dons supporters can also be viewed on KCC’s website at http:// www.kwells.org Most supporters who responded to the survey are in favour of moving from Pittodrie to Kingsford.

The stadium would sit on the edge of Westhill just within the Aberdeen City boundary.

Westhill & Elrick Community Council (W&ECC) held a public meeting for Westhill residents on 1 November. The meeting was well attended and many issues were raised. A detailed record of the meeting can be viewed on KCC’s website.

Because the development would be in Aberdeen City and not Aberdeenshire, KCC has to be formally consulted about it but W&ECC does not. However, W&ECC are still able to comment on the planning application when it comes out, just as everybody can.

KCC would urge Kingswells residents to have a look at AFC’s planning application when it comes out, probably sometime in December. This will be your only opportunity to say what you think before the plans are put before the Council for a decision.

You can find all local planning applications on Aberdeen City Council’s planning website.

(Search for “planning applications - Aberdeen city council”). Their website tells you how to respond to a planning application. Alternatively, log on to KCC’s website for information and advice on what to do. www.gazettemagazines.com t : 07813 964 875

e : kingswells@gazettemagazines.com

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Buses At the time of writing we have no further information about the removal of the X40 and number 11 services. There has been a lot of local campaigning, including strong representation from our two Councillors Steve Delaney and David Cameron. KCC would like to thank those who put together the insert for the last magazine, those who worked on the petitions and attended meetings to give their views. People have really pulled together and shown a lot of community spirit.

This kind of response is just what Kingswells needs. KCC would like to link up with those good people who have been active in the campaign. You would be very welcome at any of our meetings which are held at 7pm on the second Monday of each month in Adventure Aberdeen, Fairley Road (door at the back of the building).

The bus company has been widely criticised for its proposals. It now has to make a final decision.

Prime Four Expansion – Retail or Offices ?

The development site extending from west of the Five Mile Garage to Ardene House (vet hospital) was originally zoned for more office buildings. However, Drum Group is now asking Aberdeen City Council for a change of use from office to retail, food and drink.

Boots and Next have both shown interest in the site and we believe that a food store of limited size could also be included. We have no information at this stage about the other possible shops.

KCC realises that many residents might welcome the idea of more shops in the area. At present, KCC is keeping an open mind about the development until we see more definite plans. We have had useful initial discussions with Drum Group’s Managing Director, Graeme Bone. A key factor will be how additional traffic can be managed on the A944, especially if the new Dons stadium is built just along the road.

Christmas Tree By the time you read this, we should have another splendid Christmas tree in the village.

KCC would like to extend its gratitude to all the volunteers and sponsors involved Graeme Thom, Matthew Dunn, Chris Dunn, Darren Quarmby, Gary Aylmer, Davie Reid, Jim Stewart of Stewart Transport Services, Aberdeen Volks Centre and Derek Rattray Builders.

Cycling in the Dark It has been brought to our notice that some youngsters, and even adults, have been cycling around Kingswells in the dark without lights. Not only is this illegal, it’s also dangerous and just plain daft. Any collision with a vehicle or even a pedestrian could have serious consequences. Adults, of course, should know better. We would urge parents to ensure that their youngsters’ bikes are well lit at night and also on dark mornings if they have a paper round, for example.

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Path Problems The core paths around Kingswells are a real asset for those who want to keep fit and they are well used by walkers, joggers, runners and cyclists. Although many paths were well constructed at the time, several are now suffering from a range of problems. The popular path across Gillahill to Dobbies, for example, is very narrow and quite muddy along much of its length. The main problem here is the encroachment of tall vegetation which is also obscuring the lovely views. The path along the Bucks Burn Valley is frequently flooded at Derbeth Park and there are wet, muddy sections on the valley path beyond Concraig.

PHOTO 1 Core path at Gillahill

PHOTO 2 Core path at Derbeth Park KCC is actively seeking ways to solve these problems, including the possibility of direct, practical action.

As often happens in Kingswells, the main obstacles to action are trying to find out who owns the land and who is responsible for maintaining the paths.

Derbeth Pond The water in Derbeth Pond has been life-less for some time and it appears that water is no longer flowing into the pond.

There are also problems with poor drainage and flooding. KCC is trying to find out what has gone wrong.

Following pressure from KCC, Stewart Milne Homes have now agreed to consult specialists and develop a programme of work to try to fix the problems.

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News from Councillor Cameron...

Where does the time go? Almost Christmas again and in less than 6 months we will have the Local Authority Elections. It is unbelievable that it is more than 4 and a half years since I was elected in May 2012 to represent your interests on Aberdeen City Council. As many of you are aware, this was my first foray into Politics and it has been a steep learning curve. I firmly believe that the electorate who vote to give you the privilege of representing their interests are most important. That includes all the residents – those who voted for me, those who voted for others and those who did not vote at all.

With this philosophy in mind I set about getting to know the issues which are most important to the residents of Kingswells and have attempted to make a difference. I have regularly attended Kingswells Community Council meetings since my election and used this forum to feedback actions I had taken on behalf of Kingswells as a community and to gather information on issues that needed to be addressed. Since May 2012 there have been many issues to address both for the community and for individual constituents. It would be most inappropriate to make specific reference to individual casework I have performed as a Councillor but hopefully all those I have managed to help are content with the service received and have no inhibitions in approaching me with problems in future should the need arise.

Over the piece there have been some very successful outcomes, others are “work in progress�, others have been partially successful and unfortunately there are some failures. In 2014 one of my most satisfactory achievements was to secure a Victoria Cross Memorial Flagstone for the late Captain Brookes as the centrepiece of the memorial garden.

I was instrumental, with the help of Jonathon Kitching of Adventure Aberdeen in setting up the Friends of Fairley Road Field. This field adjacent to Adventure Aberdeen has for decades been an amenity space used by the

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residents of Kingswells for play, picnics and their general enjoyment. This had become virtually unusable and therefore the plans Adventure Aberdeen had were going to be beneficial to the whole community. Setting up the Friends Group ensures that the community have a say in the development of the field. In improving the amenity of Kingswells working hard with Environmental Services to ensure grass cutting, cutting back undergrowth and clearing footpaths has been, and is, an ongoing task which I continue to engage in with varying degrees of success. Finally in this section the bulb planting with a Primary 7 class from Kingswells Primary School, with their teacher a teaching assistant, was very pleasant satisfying way to spend a morning whilst improving the aesthetics of the verges on Kingswells Crescent.

Kingswells has been subjected to extensive and prolonged roadworks which have caused disruption since May 2012. Firstly, the works on the A944 associated with the Prime4 development needed my intervention to ensure that the signage indicating road and lane closures were only posted when the work was occurring and not left in place continuously for 9 months. Currently with the infrastructure work related to the proposed Countesswells Development has, and still does, result in considerable roads disruption for the residents of Kingswells. Almost on a daily basis I seem to be contacting Council Officers in attempts to minimise this disruption. Whilst dealing with roads one unsuccessful campaign I have driven (excuse the pun) is the imposition of an unnecessary and an inconsistent series of speed limits on the A944. These are specifically related to Aberdeen City. When moving into Aberdeenshire from the city a motorist can find that they have been driving on a rural dual carriageway with aped limit of 40 mph and are now on a single carriageway road with a limit of 60 mph, the National Standard. As well as considerable public support for my stance I also had support from Police Scotland on the basis of

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the difficulty to police these limits successfully.

Finally in relation to roads there is the ongoing issue of the deterioration of the lock block streets and cul-de-sacs in Kingswells. Firstly there was the unacceptable “repair” mechanism of replacing the broken blocks with tarmac which was unsightly, rather than replacing the blocks. This has been an ongoing saga for at least a couple of years and is still not satisfactorily resolved. This would be in the category of “work in progress”. Rest assured I will continue to pursue this until a satisfactory solution is reached.

There have been numerous issues around the Park and Ride and public transport in Kingswells not least of which is the current uncertainty around FirstBus services to the village. This is partly uncontrollable as the deregulation of buses has lead to private companies delivering the services they chose to deliver. I am committed to ensure that Kingswells have a sustainable bus service in the village. To that end, whilst many of my colleagues remonstrated with FirstBus after their letter indicating they were considering discontinuing the 11 and X40 services, I had a meeting with senior management at Stagecoach. At that stage another service provider was not in a position to make proposals as the current provider had not intimated that the services were being

discontinued. Suffice to say that they willingly met with me and were giving consideration to what they may do in the event of FirstBus withdrawing services. This is still certainly “work in progress” but the reconstruction at the Park and Ride to allow bus access from Prime4 is complete thanks to discussions with me, Council Officers and Community Councillors.

Life is not dull and there is always work to do.

When there are successes in achieving a good result for Kingswells I find that particularly satisfying. Where progress is being made slowly, an example being the lock block issue outlined above, I find that frustrating, but I am never tempted to give up and accept less for you than I feel you deserve.

As this is the Christmas Edition I would like to take the opportunity to wish you and yours an enjoyable Christmas and to everyone a successful, healthy and prosperous 2017.

David J Cameron Councillor for Kingswells, Sheddocksley and Summerhill Ward Aberdeen City Council Telephone Office: 01224 346612 Mobile: 07876760760

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News from Councillor Delaney...

As you read this, winter will have arrived once more. Hopefully it won’t be too severe, but we’ve had several really mild winters so I’m not too hopeful. Having said that, it’s a joyful time of year, a time for family and friends and a break from work. There’s lot’s going on with the Christmas lights, the Christmas Village and other festive activities. It’s also a time to reflect on the year gone by, to fondly remember those who have passed away and to look towards fresh beginnings.

Kingswells has a thriving community spirit with the school, community council, community centre, the village hall and all their volunteers at the heart of making things happen. In particular I’d like to thank Caren Fong for her contributions over many years as Community Centre Manager and welcome Jenny Evans who has recently taken over the role.

But of course it’s not just organisations that make a community. It’s often individuals who make a real difference either on their own or collectively. This became only too apparent when a group of local people came together to organise petitions in opposition to First Aberdeen’s plans to remove bus services from the village.

Each year Aberdeen City Council organises the Community Stars awards to recognise outstanding contributions by individuals

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who have made a real difference to their communities. This year I nominated the bus petitions organisers for these awards which took place at the end of November, in recognition of their hard work and their dedication towards securing a bus service not just for them, but for everyone in our community and in particular elderly and disabled people in Kingswells who would otherwise be left isolated.

Talking of buses, the notice of motion I put to the council in October calling for the council to meet with First Aberdeen to try to get them to reverse their decision and for everyone to work together to ensure Kingswells is not left without a bus service, was passed with all party support and I’m thankful to colleagues across the board for this. I later discussed residents’ concerns with Humza Yousaf MSP, the Transport Minister, who has asked to be kept updated. Drop in sessions in Kingswells were very well attended with a wealth of comments being made, which have all gone towards informing possible outcomes.

Unfortunately there’s no further update on the buses as we go to print but if news breaks in the interim I will put something out separately to ensure everyone is aware with respect to next steps. Should First Aberdeen decide to withdraw, a public meeting will be organised by the council in Kingswells to discuss next steps. In the meantime I’m issuing regular email newsletters which have been keeping residents informed on

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progress as it happens on the buses and with other matters. If you would like to be included just drop me an email.

On a different note, there have been countless complaints about roadworks in and around Kingswells. People understand that there’s going to be some disruption, but the duration of the works (on the Cults road) and the number of road and lane closures taking place at the same time has caused, in my view, unnecessary chaos.

Matters have been further compounded by lack of signage in respect of AWPR works, which has caused needless anxiety and confusion.

Needless to say, I have raised this in the strongest of terms with the council. People need to be able to get in and out of Kingswells easily and this has not been the case at certain times.

be cleared as soon as possible. It’s a huge task, but additional equipment has been hired to speed things up. It is hoped that all areas will be cleared by Christmas.

I would like to conclude by wishing all residents a good Christmas and New Year. Remember to wrap up warm and enjoy your family time together.

As always, please get in touch to raise any concerns you may have.

Regards Steve Delaney 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

On a final point, fallen leaves continue to be a potential slip hazard, especially when wet or frosty. Assurances have been given that in areas maintained by Aberdeen City Council, leaves will

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Christmas Shopping Locally...

Digitise your photographs, slides and videos to DVD or Flash Memory Stick. www.photostodvd.org.uk or call 07743441690

Anna Wright - 'A Tower of Giraffes' Giclee print by Anna Wright £50 (Junction Arts) Gift bagged bath bombs / foot soaks are priced at £3.50 each or 6 for £20 by Ruth - contact me on 07835309999 Mica Peet Necklaces - Brass & wooden Jewellery

by Mica Peet £12 £18 each (Junction Arts)

Morag Archer - Tiny sewn croft, in hand painted frame by Morag Archer £40 each (Junction Arts)

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Christmas Shopping Locally...

Kittiwake Brooches Geometric hand painted wooden brooches by Kittiwake Design £7 each (Junction Arts)

Please do mention Kingswells Community News when responding to advertisers - thank you

Alison Phillips 1 - Small Sterling silver stud earrings by Alison Phillips jewellery £12 £14 each (Junction Arts)

Kittiwake winter houses Small hand painted wooden houses by Kittiwake Design £6 - £7.50 each (Junction)

Candy Coated Arrow Scarfs - 100% lambswool scarfs by Candy Coated £45 each (Junction Arts)

Dermalogica Gift Sets and individual gift bags made up along with gift vouchers starting from £15. (Kumiko)

Gift bagged bath bombs / foot soaks are priced at £3.50 each or 6 for £20 by Ruth contact me on 07835309999

Christmas Shopping Locally...

WREATHS : 16/18” - £29 |19/21” - £35 Cemetery Wreaths with plastic flowers and ribbons approx 6/18” - £25 Posey’s start from £25.00; large posey 20” - £60 Various Table centrepieces in various shapes start from £15 (VonPetal Kingswells)

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Gift Vouchers Available at all the shops advertising here plus...

Poldinos The Oven Valet Brillbird Laura Walker Ltd Kumiko Kippie Lodge Scott Gilmour e : kingswells@gazettemagazines.com

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www.etsy.com/uk/shop/DriftwoodTide tealights etc fm £9

Christmas Shopping Locally...

Stag Sculputure £145 (limited edition) www.aberdeen-art.co.uk / jamie@ aberdeen-art.co.uk 07804 669082 Selection of luxury hair care products from Sebastian & System Professional.

Christmas sets (West with Style)

handmade raffia craft: Place Mats, Shopping Baskets, Tote stripy Bags, Purses/Handbags For Kids. www.facebook.com/SuncolorgiftsPrices £5-£25) 22, Corse Wynd, Kingswells.

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Juliette Armand Skincare is between £16 - £40 per item [Face Renew - Ellon]

Christmas Shopping Locally...

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KINGSWELLS PARISH CHURCH As we approach the Christmas Season many of us will be planning for our Christmas festivities; our parties, our Christmas gifts and cards, our Christmas Day meals and our family gatherings, a time when we celebrate our good fortune, our friendships and the many blessings that life brings. For some, however, such blessings will be overshadowed, possibly by grief, a breakdown in relationships, unemployment, financial worries, loss of confidence and uncertainty about the future. These everyday experiences, these different aspects of life, the good things, the joyous things, the sad things, the things that cause us concern about the future are the mixture of things that throughout life we all encounter.

Yet the origins of Christmas and our celebration of it, centres on the birth of Jesus, a birth that brings hope to all of us. So, amidst all the clamour of celebration and the disappointments and concerns of life, Christians believe that when God sent his Son into the world he gave us reason to believe in the future. In sending Jesus, God has set out an example of what is important in life, what has meaning in life, not material things but things of the spirit – love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

During Advent, a time in the Church leading up to Christmas, a time of ‘waiting’, we celebrate some of these gifts of the spirit by lighting a candle on each of the four preceding Sundays before Christmas; a candle of hope, a candle of love, a candle of joy, a candle of peace; and on Christmas Day we light a fifth, white candle – the ‘Christ Candle’ - that represents the life of Christ that has come into the world, a life of purity, free of wrongdoing. The life of Jesus provides an example of living that encompasses hope, love, joy and peace. When we celebrate Christmas these are the gifts that we should most cherish because they sustain us through all life’s challenges and opportunities. These are the

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COMMUNITY CAROL CONCERT FRIDAY 9 DECEMBER 7.15PM COMMUNITY CENTRE gifts that make family life precious, when fathers and mothers, and sons and daughters of each generation share in their heritage and celebrate these things that are of most value to life itself.

May Christmas bring to each of you hope, love, joy and peace in abundance.

At this Advent and Christmas time, come and join us at our various services and especially to the Community Carol Concert on Friday 9 December at 7.15pm at the Community Centre and our Christingle Service for families on Christmas Eve at 6.00pm at the Church.

As always we welcome all to our services of worship and praise. Our services continue each Sunday at 11.00am For further information visit our Web Site http://www.kingswellschurch. com The following services will take place in the month of December Community Carol Concert on Friday 9 December at 7.15pm Service of Nine Lessons and Carols Sunday 18 December at 11.00am Christingle Family Service Saturday 24 December at 6.00pm Christmas Eve Service Saturday 24 December at 11.15 for 11.30pm Christmas Day Worship Sunday 25 December at 11.00am For further information visit our Web Site http://www.kingswellschurch.com

Please do mention Kingswells Community News when responding to advertisers - thank you

Are you prepared for the unexpected?

Living a healthy lifestyle and being in good health is something that the majority of us aspire to.

Nowadays, with health scares often highlighted in the media, we’re encouraged to look after ourselves by maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle.

However, one thing that’s certain is that, even despite our best efforts, falling ill can happen to anyone, at anytime, with little or no warning.

Being diagnosed with a life threatening illness can turn people’s lives upside down. It can shake a family’s security, impact on the ability to work and quickly affect the stability of finances. This can all be avoided if you’re financially prepared.

We believe in taking care of our health, but we should also take care of our finances by protecting what we’ve got and insuring our lives or health. A financial back-up plan will help relieve any financial pressure when faced with the sad reality of a premature death of a loved one or a diagnosis of a

www.gazettemagazines.com t : 07813 964 875

life-threatening illness.

Life insurance and critical illness cover are two types of insurance policies that can offer financial protection to a family, should serious illness become an unwelcome part of life. They are similar in that they both generally run for a set number of years, for a set sum assured and for a monthly premium agreed at outset.

A life insurance policy will pay out in the event of the death of the person whose life is assured, however, a critical illness policy will pay out in the event of the person who is insured being diagnosed with one of a list of specified illnesses.

This may include, for example, a heart attack, major organ transplant, some cancers or multiple sclerosis.

If you would like to find out more about life insurance and critical illness cover, call 01224 900879, or visit www.philandersonfinancial.co.uk for more information.

e : kingswells@gazettemagazines.com

25

A new-found interest for golf has seen a surge in participation and membership among female players at a blossoming northeast country club.

Kippie Lodge, set within the bounds of Aberdeen yet surrounded by the picturesque scenery of the Dee valley, has been the perfect sport & leisure retreat since the early 1970s.

Once dominated by male businessman in the oil trade – the club is affiliated to Scottish Golf as Aberdeen Petroleum – it is now seeing an upsurge in ladies keen to take up the game and gain handicaps.

The picturesque 9-hole golf course in the grounds opened in the early 1990s and provides a challenge for all levels of player, with a family-friendly ethos.

Director of Golf Keil Beveridge has been working at the venue with groups of ladies through Scottish Golf’s Get into Golf coaching programme, while Laura Murray, who recently won her first pro event, continues the female theme through her attachment to Kippie Lodge.

Such has been the interest from women club members at Kippie, they have now taken a leaf out of the men’s book by setting up their own ladies golf association, with 45 joining in order to have fun, learn the game and perhaps gain handicaps to start playing medals next season. Currently, only six of the ladies are members of other city clubs.

Never before has there been so much interest in ladies golf,” says Nicky Caldwell, marketing coordinator at Kippie. “We have Keil here and we do ladies coaching, but a group of ladies have now set up their own golf association within the country club. It’s just gone from strength to strength really.

26

“It’s never been so busy with the ladies.

Groups of men go out, but all of a sudden these ladies have come out wanting to play and wanting to get involved in golf. They’re not feeling pressurised, if they are a beginner or intermediate, they can join this group of ladies and play. It’s a group of ladies who have got together who are learning, enjoying and playing the game.

“They are trying to encourage other ladies to come along, saying ‘you don’t need to have a handicap, come along for a bit of fun. If you want to join us brilliant, we can then look at getting you a handicap’. It’s golf at Kippie for ladies. It’s a club within a club.”

The lady members meet for golf every Wednesday and Saturday, numbering around 20 regularly, with more expected next season.

One of the beginner ladies, Fiona Willox, has even already notched a hole in one, at the 4th hole in pouring rain!

Susan, Chappell –Smith, who runs the ladies’ golf association at Kippie, added: “The ladies are already playing a longer course, which allows for handicaps and competitions. The greens staff at Kippie have altered the tee positions to comply with this and new cards have been printed with the revised yardages.

“We have 45 paid up members and have been able to register and issue handicaps to 24 ladies since the course was changed to allow for the required yardage.

“Over the winter we will devise a competition schedule for 2017, incorporating various ideas we have to retain the interest of the ladies – allowing for a mix of competitions and fun games.

“We will be playing fun bounce games on Wednesday mornings as well as Saturday’s during the winter, weather permitting, and have also organised social functions and away days to other courses, just for fun golf.”

Please do mention Kingswells Community News when responding to advertisers - thank you

KIPPIE LODGE Dining Membership Now is your chance to join Kippie Lodge as a Dining Member.

Whether your looking to enjoy an intimate meal, family gathering or to enjoy a drink on the patio while the kids play Kippie provides the perfect location - right on your doorstep!

Family events include, Christmas Parties, Halloween Fireworks event, discos and much much more. nOW IS YOUR

Dining Membership at Kippie Lodge

ÂŁ76 for an annual membership (includes ÂŁ25 of dining vouchers to spend at the Club)

KIPPIE LODGE Full Membership *Pay your 2017 membership in full and get the rest of 2016 free of charge *terms and conditions apply t : 07813apc@kippielodge.co.uk 964 875 e : kingswells@gazettemagazines.com 27 Forwww.gazettemagazines.com further information: www.kippielodge.co.uk

A rustic Christmas Simple festive decorations can be the most appealing, says interiors expert Katherine Sorrell Who doesn’t love a natural look? Unpretentious and understated, natural Christmas decorations suit every home, large or small, modern or traditional, and make a fabulous, timeless alternative to commercialised glitz and glitter.

The ideal centrepiece is a real tree, best bought from a good local stockist. Choose one that’s as fresh as possible, make a new cut at the bottom, and display in a stand (a wicker basket is perfect) that holds a reservoir of water. (Tip: the Nordmann Fir holds its needles really well.) Decorate your tree generously without overloading, and keep to a limited colour scheme (white, red, green and brown are all great), using natural materials (see box). For a touch of sparkle, twine the tree with small, plain white fairy lights.

Feeling inspired? Then make decorations with the family. Garlands of popcorn, nuts, gingerbread stars and paper strings of angels or snowflakes are adorable. Instead of shiny baubles, cut simple shapes from felt and blanket-stitch them around the outside, or make a wreath using garden clippings.

Similarly, you can create wonderful decorations using sprigs of evergreen, ivy, pine cones (perhaps sprayed with artificial snow), rose hips, dried seed heads and twigs (lashed into a star shape). Or tie dried slices of apple and orange together with gardener’s string and add cinnamon sticks and star anise.

If you’re short of time, all these will be in the shops, along with others such as birch bark candle holders, driftwood Christmas trees and needlefelted and knitted owls, reindeer and robins.

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Wrap presents in brown paper and string, or lengths of fabric and cotton ribbon. Use cardboard luggage labels, and why not embellish the plain paper with potato printing in white – something children might enjoy? For receiving presents, there’s nothing nicer than knitted stockings hanging by the fire, perhaps with some widely available printed hessian sacks for larger gifts.

Fresh flowers are fabulous at Christmas – hyacinths, amaryllis and poinsettias are classic and all look particularly special in white. Wrap pots in hessian tied with string or pop groups of them into a wicker basket; you can decorate the tops of the pots with silver moss.

Less is more with this look, so laying the festive table is easy. A linen runner or place mats, plain white china, clear glass and simple decorations such as bowls of pine cones or oranges studded with cloves, and perhaps a vase full of evergreens, twigs and boughs. Cosy, welcoming and unpretentious.

Please do mention Kingswells Community News when responding to advertisers - thank you

Cinnamon sticks and star anise Gingerbread Felt Hyacinths, amaryllis and white poinsettias Candles Pine cones

Finally, add candles, small and tall, anywhere their flickering glow will make you feel happy.

Alternatively, tea lights look pretty inside old jam jars, which is safer if you have young children around. Pop a mince pie in the oven and heat some mulled wine on the hob, and here it is – a very merry Christmas.

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Hessian Twigs, branches and boughs Linen and cotton ribbon Brown paper and string Greenery and berries from the garden Moss Dried, sliced apples and oranges

Merry Xmas jumbo Santa sack, £8.99; Tar lantern, £4; tree lantern, £2; 6ft berry and cone tree, £40; wool badger lady and gentlemen, £3.50; all Dunelm, 0845 1656565; www. dunelm-mill.com.

Log battery candles with star design, £12 each, The Contemporary Home, 02392 469400; www.tch.net.

Intricate star, £8, Jenny Walsh Design, 0868 773293; www. jennywalshdesign.com.

Artificial eucalyptus and cone Christmas wreath, £15, The Contemporary Home, as before.

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E

Kingswells SWI October President Kathleen Hendry introduced Jim Fiddes from the Skene Heritage Society who gave a very interesting talk & slide show on “A Walk Along the Old Skene Road” Jim has also written a book “ Brodiach to Bervie “ Competition winners Knitted Scarf

Bran Loaf

1st S Gauld

1st S Gauld

2nd A Nicol

2nd A Bruce

3rd M Farquhar

3rd M Bruce

November Members and guests celebrated the institutes 95th birthday with a dinner at the Craighaar Hotel. The birthday cake was cut by Shelia Gauld & Mary Sheran both very long standing members of the institute. Entertainment was provided by Fiona Gilmore.

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Aberdeen City Libraries @ Kingswells Community Centre Aberdeen City Libraries deliver a fortnightly service to the Kingswells community on Fridays from 2.50 pm to 3.50 pm in the hall at Kingswells Community Centre on Kingswells Avenue.

A selection of books and DVDs, suitable for all ages, are available for loan and library staff are on hand to answer enquiries and assist with reading choices. Reservations may be placed for stock that is not on display. Theme events will take place at libraries throughout the holidays; further details are available at www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/Library

Library Service dates 2016

|Nov: Fri 25 | Dec Fri 9 For further info : Home Service Library tel. 01224 498930

Whist at Kingswells

Do you enjoy a game of cards? Then come along to the Kingswells Community Centre on Thursday afternoons from 2 to 4 pm for a friendly game of Whist. Any queries to Helen: 01224 744429

Indoor Carpet Bowling Come along and give carpet bowls a try... indoor carpet bowling held at the Community Centre.

Neil Bayfield 013398 83631

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.

Tornaveen (B9119 to Tarland)

In the first instance to gain more info and words of encouragement contact :

Easier movement Relax the body Free the mind www.trageraberdeeenshire.co.uk Home visits possible

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Ian Sim Tel: 01224 741178 Mob: 07535221718

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A

wee reminder from Adventure Aberdeen about its Community meeting room. This is within the main body of the building and is hireable by community groups at a very competitive rate.

The room is the old gym hall of the school and can accommodate up to 25 people comfortably.

The room has a mixture of formal and informal seating, a large screen and digital projector, public wifi, a kitchenette with urn, microwave, dish washer, crockery, there are two toilets, one with disability and baby changing facilities. The room has disability access. It can be booked at any time but is ...in Little Belmont Street generally more available in We have been serving fine italian cuisine since 1977.

Extensive à la cartethe menu for lunch and dinner. evenings.

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in Little Belmont Street

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We have been serving fine Italian cuisine since 1977.

...in Little Belmont Street

Extensive à la carte menu for lunch and dinner.

5 minutes walk from His Majesty’s Theatre and Music Hall been serving fine italian cu We have

- special lunch and1977. pre-theatre menus.

Extensive à la carte menu for lunch We have been serving fine italian cuisine since baked home-made pizzas with lashings of toppings.

Extensive à la carte menu forFreshly lunch and dinner.

5 minutes walk from His Majesty’s T Tender pasta dishes full of tasty ingredients and luscious cream – special lunch and pre-theatre men

sauces.

Seafood, 5 minutes walk from His Majesty’s Theatre andprime Musicsteaks, Hall chicken dishes, all with that extra touch of genius which is true Italian cooking!

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01224 647777 Tender pasta dishes full of tasty ingredients and luscious cream sauces. Seafood, primeGift 7 Little Belmont Street | Aberdeen | AB10 1JG Open Monday to Saturday: 12 n steaks, chicken dishes, all with that extra touch of genius which is true Italian cooking!

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31 www.poldinos

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7 Little Belmont Street | Aberdeen | AB10 1JG

| A

Kingswells Health Walks

Please come and join us. Kingswells Health Walks are short, gentle walks of between one to three miles. They start every Thursday morning at 10.30 from the Community Centre and return after about an hour with the option of a stop for coffee and a chat. The walks are led by local trained volunteers and are free. We go out every week, whatever the weather, except when extreme conditions make it unsafe. You don’t need any special equipment, just sensible, comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather. It is an opportunity to make new friends and explore Kingswells and its surroundings. We are lucky to live in such an attractive area with a variety of pleasant walks.

Some folk may already be reasonably fit and active and for them we can walk at a normal pace, but there will always be a leader who is prepared to take beginners and slower walkers, or those with health problems, who prefer to go at a more gentle pace. We have recently been assessed as Dementia friendly and suitable for the Macmillan Move More programme of activity.

Health walks occur all over Scotland and are supported by Paths For All and Sport Aberdeen and are approved by the NHS. Bring along your family, friends, and neighbours too! We do hope to see you soon.

Any further information may be had by phoning: Liz on 01224 744729, Ann on 01224 749521 or Kenneth onWW01224 746658 ad 60x42 no2.pdf

Zumba

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Dance fitness for all Only £5 a class Kingswells Public Hall

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11 am Sat : Kerry Davidson 07960 454889 7.50pm Wed : Gillian Low 07808 160728 CY

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Drop us a text and come join the fun!

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15:48

Kingswells Community Centre BUGGY FITNESS CLASSES Claire is a new mum herself and has 10 years experience within the Fitness industry as well as a qualified Personal Trainer.

Buggy Fitness is a great way to improve your fitness, tone up and lose any of that extra baby weight whilst enjoying time with your little one and meeting other lovely parents.

Classes will enable you to: - Reach your personal goals - Tone and shape your body - Improve fitness - Improve overall health - Mental stimulation for you and your baby - Great social outlet No need to book just pop along and see what it's all about!

Tuesday at 10.30am @ Kingswells Community Centre Thursday at 10.00am @ Webster Park•

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A Happy and Healthy Christmas for your Pet Now that the Festive Season is almost upon us and we are all rushing around with a million things to do it is important not to forget that Christmas can be hazardous time for our pets.

Take care with floral arrangements and plants especially if you have cats; all Lilies are toxic to cats and the pollen can easily get on their coats if they brush past an arrangement, they can then ingest the toxins when they groom themselves.

Poinsettias are also a common addition to the home at Christmas they are toxic to your pet if ingested.

Many households hang chocolate treats on the tree or wrap presents containing chocolate and place them underneath the tree. Chocolate is poisonous to dogs and cats it contains a substance called theobromine. Dark chocolate is the worst as it contains a greater concentration of theobromine. Dogs especially are attracted to the smell of chocolate treats. It is important not to leave any chocolate treats in reach of pets, remember to shut them out of the room where the tree is when you go to bed or go out.

damage the liver. Both grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs. Raisins are also in lots of different foods that we eat such as mince pies and Christmas pudding, so avoid giving your dog anything that might contain raisins. Raisins can cause kidney failure in some dogs.

Ingestion of batteries is more common at this time of year. If the battery is chewed and pierced it can cause chemical burns and heavy metal poisoning. If they are swallowed whole it is possible they will cause an obstruction. All batteries are potentially toxic so if you suspect your dog has chewed or swallowed a battery speak to your local vet.

Hopefully these tips will ensure you and your pet have a safe and happy Christmas!

Town & Country Veterinary Group would like to wish all its clients a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Cats love to play with string and tinsel is even more attractive as it sparkles. So again take care not to leave them unattended with the Christmas tree decorations. Tinsel can get stuck in the digestive tract if ingested causing serious problems for your pet and often requiring an operation to remove it. If you have a “real” Christmas tree then be careful to pick up any dropping needles as they can get stuck in your pets paws. Pine trees can also be a cause of skin irritation in pets with skin allergies.

A lot of us like a “tipple” at Christmas, but remember not to leave your glass unattended, as often dogs will “finish off” your beverage, pets have a low tolerance for alcohol and it can

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Christmas Carol Concert which will take place, as always, at Craigiebuckler Parish Church, on Friday 9 December, at 7.30 pm.

The programme is varied and interesting, featuring 2 young instrumental soloists, as well as a range of classical, modern and traditional Christmas music under the talented direction of conductor Jane Murray.

Tickets cost £10 and £8, and are available from Choir members, Top Note Music in Crown Street, or at the door, and include interval refreshments.’

The Carol Concert programme will also feature the world premiere of “Joy”, by Rachel Groves, which recently won the Times Carol Competition. Rachel has been the Choir’s guest harpist/flautist for the last few concerts, and wrote the music for this carol for her dad, Jonathan, who is also a choir member, last Christmas. She then arranged it for Aberdeen Orpheus Choir earlier this year.

Rachel was encouraged to enter the carol in the Times competition, which she won, beating hundreds of other entries.

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WOODLANDGROVE@ MILLTIMBER - START 2017 IN YOUR NEW LUXURY HOME With the option of being settled into your new home by Christmas, WoodlandGrove@ Milltimber offers the ideal combination of prestigious location, quality lifestyle, and easy access to world-class leisure and travel facilities.

The luxury development of two-bedroom apartments for buyers aged 55 and over lies in the heart of the affluent suburb of Milltimber.

Westhill’s internationally-renowned subsea centre of excellence is only a 15 minute drive away; with Aberdeen’s city centre and the world-class Prime Four business park, within easy reach too.

There are excellent sporting and leisure facilities close by, including Peterculter and Deeside Golf Clubs, as well as Kippie Lodge sports and country club, and the David Lloyd Club. There are also spas at the nearby Marcliffe and Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House hotels.

Christine MacDonald, Woodland Grove’s sales advisor, said: “With the festive season approaching, the advantage of Woodland Grove’s central location giving easy access to amenities, cities, and towns across the region will become even more obvious.

“If you’re spending the festive season with family elsewhere, or jetting off to get some winter sun, there are excellent road, rail and air links for domestic and international travel.”

The generously-proportioned WoodlandGrove@Milltimber apartments are ideally suited for downsizing without

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compromising on social space for entertaining family and friends over Christmas – or any time of the year.

Energy efficiency and reducing emissions have been front of mind throughout the construction process, so these luxury apartments are cheaper to run, and better for the environment compared with the average Scottish home.

Christine said: “With an EPC B band rating and estimated yearly heating, light and hot water costs of around £400, homeowners can potentially save hundreds of pounds on energy bills.”

Each apartment has its own individual design: offering outstanding comfort and style including superior finishes, light and spacious lounges, and designer kitchens with highquality appliances.

Set in stunning, maintained grounds, the apartments - each with a substantial private balcony or terrace - have lift access to all levels.

There is allocated residents parking, and ample visitor spaces.

All homes have a door entry security video system, and the complex has two owners’ lounges, acting as a community hub, and playing host to a range of activities.

Price start from £295,000. For further information on WoodlandGrove@Milltimber contact Christine Macdonald on 01224 863591 or visit woodlandgrove.co.uk

OPENING HOURS Show apartment opening hours Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Monday 11am – 5pm Sunday noon – 4pm

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Enjoy the luxury and lifestyle at your leisure.

Set in the popular suburb of Milltimber, Woodland Grove is a luxury development of two bedroom apartments exclusively for buyers aged 55 and over.

Generously-proportioned apartments perfectly located for easy access to a wide range of leisure facilities, amenities and business hubs. This luxury development is the ideal choice for commuters, and those enjoying their new-found freedom.

Set in stunning, maintained grounds, each apartment enjoys a spacious private balcony or terrace, perfect for entertaining family and friends. With the added benefit of lift access to all levels, allocated residents parking, and a door entry security video system.

GO ONLINE AND BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TO VIEW OUR FABULOUS SHOWHOME >

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