Lifestyle Moray Magazine - December 2020 / January 2021

DEC2020 JAN2021

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FEATURES 2

Moray Business Women 2020 Virtual Awards

9

The Sewing Shop Fochabers Winner of the British Sewing Awards 2020

12 Scotland Loves Local

Support local businesses 14

Merry Christmas to all our advertisers and readers!

From the Lifestyle Team xx

Intricate Designs New business in Cullen

34 Danny Mortimer

Charity Christmas single

16 Touchdown

Memorial home for horses

36 Ron Jappy

Debut album

18 Travel

Maynes Coaches

38 Portsoy

Monumental achievement

in Banffshire heritage

20 Your images

showcasing the best of

North Scotland 24

Cover image: ‘Foxtrot’ supplied by The Gallery, Aberlour. Artwork by Dawn Maciocia dawnmaciocia.com

40 Moray Hub

Wellbing writing walks

Sustainable fashion ‘slow fashion’

42 Seasonal stress

with Laura Mcnally

28 Christmas gift ideas

A wonderful selection of gifts

to choose from at Strathisla Distillery

46 Fergus Ewing MSP

Agriculture industry

THIS MONTH’S COMPETITIONS 32 Recipes from the Bearded Chef

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Editor Rhona Patterson Creatives Eve Russell Advertising Rhona Patterson Distribution Gordon Duncan Ltd All material within this magazine is subject to formal copyright restrictions and therefore the reproduction of any listings, editorial, advertising artwork or any other content, without the publisher’s prior consent, will be considered a breach of copyright. Intellectual copyright: Lifestyle Magazine.

To advertise in Lifestyle Tel: 07900 954134 and speak to Rhona Patterson or email: rhona@lifestylemoray.scot

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CELEBRATION

MORAY BUSINESS WOMEN AWARDS

2020

N

o-one needs to be reminded of what a strange, almost surreal, year this has been. Every single business has, in one way or another, had to adapt and rethink. Moray Business Women, under the 2020 presidency of Clare Lock, is one such business.

From meeting monthly at various venues across Moray and with an exciting and varied programme planned, Clare has had to adapt her strategy of “keeping an eye on this Covid thing” to embrace a completely new way of working that neither she, nor anyone else, envisaged.

Clare and her team have held regular events, albeit on Zoom. One good thing that has come out of this is having additional meetings with their sister organisation Highland Business Women. But the highlight of every year is the Annual Awards Ball, a glittering occasion for all members to get together and celebrate. This was, sadly, never going to be a reality given the current circumstances and the only alternative was a virtual event – thanks to the sterling efforts of both Clare and her Vice President Amy Mortimer (the technical one!), a truly magnificent virtual Awards Ball was held on Friday 20th November.

The event was wonderfully hosted by journalist and reporter Nicola McAlley. Clare Lock started the event by delivering her welcome speech, which was recorded on a beautiful but windy location looking out to Bow Fiddle Rock.

Nicola then introduced the guest speaker Paralympian Dr Karen Darke MBE, whose fabulous inspirational journey kept the audience

riveted and in total awe of the achievements and resilience of this amazing woman. Karen joined them live from Mallorca where she is in training.

Nicola then introduced representatives from Moray Rape Crisis who were the MBW’s chosen charity for 2020. MBW give themselves a target of 5K to raise each year for their chosen charity and even with the challenges this year has thrown in their way they have still managed to achieve their target. Moray Rape Crisis are delighted to receive the support from MBW as this will allow them to deliver an improved service to help the sufferers of sexual violence in Moray. They will support anyone over the age of eleven and have been established in Moray since 2018.

The evening then moved to the actual awards.

Each finalist had provided a short video which played prior to the announcement of the winners in each category.

The categories and finalists were: Best New Product/Service: Sponsored by Lifestyle Magazine Katalin Urquhart – Torta by Katalin Torta by Katalin was set up in April 2020. It is a small, privately owned bakery fully certified by the Moray Council Food Hygiene Scheme.

The business itself is focused on premium patisserie products such as macarons, tarts of all sorts (lemon, chocolate, fruit, panacotta…)

and also celebration cakes. The primary aim of the business was to put smile on people’s faces and allow them to have some celebration while under lockdown. As Katalin explains: “My motto which a large number of customers in Moray now associate me with is “Torta Bakes You Happy”.

Kayleigh McDine – Mini First Aid Mini First Aid Highlands, Islands & Moray was set up by Moray mum of two, Kayleigh, in January 2020. This uses her experiences as a swimming teacher and her own parenting experiences to help teach others to save lives. Mini First Aid classes are for parents, grandparents and carers of babies and young children. Classes are short and are held across the region. Kayleigh also teaches children from as young as 3 in basic and emergency first aid with Mini First Aid’s range of children’s classes for nurseries and schools.

Anna Riddell – RideOut RideOut – launched in 2019 and owned by Anna Riddell - supports individuals and small groups of mountain biking enthusiasts to grow their confidence and skill set in a safe and fun environment. Working with complete beginners through to competent riders and competitive racers, we offer Skills Coaching, Guided MicroAdventures and Trail Days across the North of Scotland. We occasionally employ freelance instructors and we network with other outdoor pursuits providers.

Grow your network Promote your business Develop yourself and others with Moray Business Women Moray Business Women is a dynamic organisation for women across Moray.

We are friendly, supportive and committed to empowering our members to reach and exceed their business goals.

Join us at our monthly events for networking, business and fun.

To find out more, visit our website: www.mbwc.org.uk, find us on Facebook: @MorayBusinessWomen, or simply speak to any of our members.

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Caroline Dunbar – Duffus Estate Caroline and her husband Ed took over the running of his family Estate at Duffus when they moved up from East Lothian in 2013. Caroline had started the holiday cottage side of the business in 2009 and had been managing this from a distance. The Estate had been in the family since the late 1600s and had always been family run. It comprises Duffus Mansion House, four farms, a mix of residential and holiday lets, newly launched eco-cabin and policy woodland.

THE WINNER WAS KATALIN URQUHART – TORTA BY KATALIN Most Enterprising Business: Sponsored by Duffus Estate Hannah Taylor - Gut Feelings Hannah produces Kombucha, an effervescent fermented tea, using a low waste business model. She achieves the goal of low waste by building Refill Stations from second hand fridges which are supplied to local cafes and shops.

Kombucha has detoxification and probiotic qualities, making it a great addition to a healthy diet as it aids in gut health. The business was certified in April 2019 at which point she was working from her kitchen at home. She moved into a shared commercial kitchen in January 2020.

Alison Ruickbie - The Re:Store Moray A grocery store with a difference. Launched in Alison Ruickbie - The Re:Store Moray

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Summer 2019 with the intention of offering an alternative to buying food wrapped in plastic.

Customers bring their own containers and fill from the selection of dried foods and household liquids. Sold by weight they can buy as much or as little as they need, helping reduce food waste and single use plastic. Local, sustainable, ethical, affordable - a family run business with Moray at its heart.

Debi Weir - R-evolution For Good R-evolution for Good is a Charitable Community Benefit Society launched in February 2020. It is a community owned and led social enterprise, the only one of its kind in Moray. It offers Food Safety, Manual Handling, Management & Supervision, Coaching, Customer Service and Mental Health & Wellbeing training within manufacturing, retail and tourism.

This enables them to use 100% of profit to support the rising number of families experiencing poverty in Moray. They use a life coaching model to support families to step out of the cycle of poverty in a sustainable way and support Moray School Bank.

Ailsa Stinson - B is For Brand B is for Brand began trading in February 2018, with encouragement from fellow Moray Business Member Alison Read and husband Al, a Director and Co-Owner of Windswept Brewing Co. Ailsa used to give Windswept informal branding advice and they’d say ‘every business could benefit from hearing this!’

So it was with this encouragement that she discovered the confidence to return to her pre-baby career. As a Branding Consultant and sole trader, B is for Brand helps businesses with corporate level branding, ensuring that the strategy, image and experience all support the business to maximum effect.

THE WINNER WAS ALISON RUICKBIE - THE RE:STORE MORAY

Covid Recognition Award: Sponsored by The Town Planner Rhona Patterson – Lifestyle Magazine Rhona took over Lifestyle magazine in 2018 having worked on it since its inception.

Covid meant that things had to change and distribution adapted with the help of many other local businesses.

Rhona also helped in her local community helping provide IT equipment for home schooling and helping with the hundreds of care packages.

Juliette Buchan – Moray Shop Local Juliette set up the Moray Shop Local Facebook page early in lockdown as a means of sharing information on which shops were open, services being offered locally and other supports available at that time. This started as a private group but reached 1,000 followers in less than a week; shortly after which it changed to a public forum which now has over 5,500 followers.

Amanda Nasser – McClintock’s Dispensing Optician Fifteen years ago, Amanda started McClintocks Home Eyecare, providing eye care to the housebound.

Business Woman of the Year – Sponsored by The Royal Bank of Scotland Ailsa Stinson – B is for Brand was sole Nominee B is for Brand is a Corporate Branding Consultancy.

B is for Brand has at its core the ambition to help build stronger brands. The company was established with the intention of helping the local economy thrive, by bringing ‘big brand’ thinking to SMEs in the North of Scotland. In a practical sense and on a daily basis, Ailsa helps business owners and directors to improve their corporate level branding, ensuring that the strategy, image and experience all support the business or organisation to maximum effect.

In 2018, Amanda expanded the business, opening McClintocks Dispensing Opticians, a retail optician in Lossiemouth.

In August 2020, Amanda moved to larger premises, rebranding as an ‘Optical Styling Boutique’, offering exclusive designer eyewear and a unique personal styling experience.

THE WINNER WAS RHONA PATTERSON – LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE Lifestyle MAG

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Woman of Inspiration – Sponsored by Anderson & Co Chartered Accountants This award is only open to Moray Business Women members and is voted on by the members. The award recognises a member who has achieved success, inspires and motivates her peers and goes above and beyond to support fellow business women.

The nominations from the members were:

other shopkeepers called #myshoplife. This initiative inspires and boosts camaraderie amongst independent shop owners.

THE WINNER WAS SARAH HOLMES – PENCIL ME IN

Clare Lock Clockstudio ‘’Clare is always calm and fair. She works really hard, doesn't complain and gets along with everyone. Despite the setbacks, she’s led and motivated her committee, making everyone feel valued and involved’’

The awards took place virtually by Zoom.

Amy Mortimer – Dallas Designs Ltd ‘’Amy has been a wonderful Charity champion.

She is always so welcoming at all events to both members and guests and encourages others to do their best in fundraising and raising awareness of charities - really getting to know their aims and to work with them and MBW to come up with ways of gaining support in fun ways.’’

Sarah Holmes Pencil Me In ‘’Sarah gives tirelessly of herself to others as well, despite the challenges of running a retail business.’’

Sarah also runs a nationwide initiative to help 6

Visit our website: www.mbwc.org.uk

Find us on Facebook: @MorayBusinessWomen

AWARD WINNING BEAUTY & HOLISTIC SALON IN FOCHABERS

The

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rom small beginnings, in 1973, in their garden work room to a move to premises in Fochabers High Street, Jane and Alan have built up an enviable business, resulting in their being nominated for Best Independent Haberdashery in all four years between 2017 and 2020.

Now their commitment to providing a quality family service has been rewarded. They are the winners of Best Independent Retailer – Scotland British Sewing Awards 2020.

What started out as a dream job has now become their passion and they are delighted to share it with all their customers. “We are proud to have produced years of happy customers and

look forward to continuing our work for years to come! Our love for sewing drives who we are and what we do”.

Their delightful shop provides a great selection of products for all your sewing needs…whether you’re a novice, hobbyist or semi-professional! It provides a wonderful shopping experience in-store or online. Their personal assistance ensures you find exactly what you have in mind.

They welcome enquiries and are more than happy for customers to contact them with any questions they might have.

“We both wish to whole heartedly thank every single individual who took time out to nominate and vote for us… it means the world to have that appreciation from not just locals, but supported by folks across the country”.

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GET TO KNOW THE COVID PROTECTION LEVELS We have introduced new levels of protection from 0 to 4. Tighter measures where infection rates are higher and lesser ones where they’re lower. Knowing the levels and following your local guidance is how we control the virus.

Find out your local level with the postcode checker at gov.scot

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LOCAL MATTERS

YOUR COMMUNITY

NEEDS YOU! T

his is the year that will forever remain firmly ingrained in our memories. It has been a testing year for each and every business, be it small or large, and the way that our communities have come together in support has been heart-warming. Such commitments richly deserve to be recognised.

The High Street Heroes Awards have been presented as part of Scotland Loves Local, the campaign led by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP) with the support of the Scottish Government to encourage people to support shops and services close to home whenever they can.

People across the region have been urged to think local first - whether in person or online 12- to help local businesses battle through the

Ian and Rena Watson, of Cullen Bay Hotel

challenges faced because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Some of you will be aware of the efforts made by local businesses but, by the same token, there are many of you who will not have heard of some people’s contributions.

Here, then, are some uplifting stories: Popular hoteliers Ian and Rena Watson, from the Cullen Bay Hotel, say they are “absolutely delighted” after their commitment to the community was hailed as heroic. They were named as regional champions for Moray in the Scotland Loves Local High Street Heroes Awards.

Judges were told that “Ian and Rena prepared and served free meals to the local communities

of Cullen, Portknockie and Findochty during the lockdown.”

“Their dedication and commitment to the local communities was outstanding, working long days to provide free meals to the vulnerable and those who were shielding.”

“It’s thanks to local heroes like them and their initiative and support that many vulnerable people had access to hot free meals during a time of uncertainty.”

Reacting to the award news, the couple said modestly that “We are very fortunate to have been in a position where we were able to help those in the community during the lockdown.

We are very appreciative of all individuals, businesses and organisations who contributed to our endeavours.

“We never sought recognition. However, to be recognised in this way is very humbling.”

A pair of green-fingered volunteers, a group congratulated for never giving up and a woman who has been flying the flag for Moray’s shops have also been recognised.

Forres Area Community Trust (FACT) was highly commended for its widespread community work. Their nomination stated: “During Covid, FACT has helped with food parcels, shopping, collecting prescriptions, telephone befriending and computer help. Thank you for never giving up for our community.”

The same award went to Vince Lyon, 71, and 93-year-old Bert Logie, volunteers with Forres in Bloom whose hard work in the greenhouses next to Grant Park means the town boasts fabulous floral displays.

“They are both so reliable and wonderful examples of good citizens,” judges were told.

The final highly commended award in the region went to Juliette Buchan, founder of the Moray Shop Local Facebook page, which became a hub for sharing information about shops and services that were operating during lockdown.

Lifestyle MAG

It now has thousands of followers, with Juliette’s nomination stating: “She wanted to do something to support local business during a fast moving and unprecedented challenge, turning a collective feeling of helplessness into a positive collaboration of knowledge.”

High Street Heroes throughout Moray and across the country have been thanked for their hard work by Scotland’s Communities Cabinet Secretary, Aileen Campbell.

STP’s chief officer, Phil Prentice, praised their amazing dedication as he urged people across Moray to make local businesses their first port of call when shopping - whether in store or digitally.

The call not to overlook the online offerings of local businesses came after research by Scotland Loves Local confirmed the growing number of firms in Moray which have added to their services since the spring. Forty-three per cent of firms in the region that responded to a survey from the campaign said they had the capacity to take online orders - with 27 per cent of them having only made that possible since lockdown.

And, with more shoppers nationally than ever expected to do their Christmas shopping amid efforts to control the spread of coronavirus, everyone is urged not to forget their local businesses when turning to the internet.

Mr Prentice said: “Whether in person or online, it’s critical that we all think local first.”

“Since the outbreak of coronavirus, many shops across Moray who’ve never traded online before have set up websites.”

“It’s critical for their immediate survival and the future of our high streets that we support local businesses whenever we can, whether physically or virtually. They need us now more than ever.”

Find out more about the Scotland Loves Local campaign at www.lovelocal.scot.

13

Intricate Designs BUSINESS

I

f you were to visit Cullen Square nowadays, you probably would not recognise it. After many years of serving the community, the newsagents is – alas – no more. The premises have been taken over by George and Maggi Dawson, who have done an incredible job of transforming the old newsagents. Welcome to ‘Intricate Designs’, the business that has evolved from a hobby to a fullblown thriving enterprise.

Immediately opposite this new business is another transformation, the Seafield Arms Hotel, which had lain empty for far too long and is now a sophisticated boutique hotel, with interiors that could rival anything that the big city hotels have to offer.

George started the woodwork side of Intricate Designs over 20 years ago as a hobby using a second hand fretsaw. Over the years George taught himself other styles of fretwork, such as the more detailed and intricate work of Intarsia, which has proven exceedingly popular.

14

Once their family were a bit older, Maggi’s design skills, put together with George’s woodwork skill, slowly developed into a business. With the purchase of a laser engraver the business was able to grow and become more competitive. Initially Maggi and George worked from home, selling to friends and family and attending many events including both Highland Games and agricultural shows up until two years ago, when they took on their first shop.

They realised that having a shop to stock as well as producing enough stock for all the events throughout the year was a challenge.

They advertised for local artists and crafters to join them in the shop and, having received many replies, opened on 7th July 2018 with a full range of hand-crafted goods. All their crafters are local to the area and every item is made by hand.

As a measure of their continuing success, they have moved into the fabulous new premises at 7 The Square, Cullen and have added 34 crafters to their family.

The shop is beautifully designed and styled and is a browser’s delight: the myriad of goods from all the talented crafters have to be seen to be fully appreciated, as photographs do not do them justice. Don’t worry about the kids as they have that sussed too with a wonderful kid’s corner, complete with chalkboard, duplo table and train table to make sure the little ones are entertained whilst mum and dad shop to their hearts’ content - in peace.

T: 01542 841325 | 7 The Square, Cullen Visit: www.intricatedesigns.co.uk

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“ latest arrival is Lauder, a beautiful gentle giant ex-police horse who has settled very well and leads the other horses in every night into their stables.”

Touchdown Memorial Home for Horses “I didn’t know you were here!”

If Touchdown Memorial Home for Horses, a charity caring for rescued horses in the Moray hills, had a pound for every time someone made this statement, they would not need to worry about funds ever again. Yet Touchdown Memorial Home for Horses, a registered charity set up in Shropshire 23 years ago and operating in Scotland for fourteen years, nestles in the beautiful hills and is home to twelve horses ranging from ponies to Clydesdales, age four to thirty six. They come from a range of backgrounds including racing, eventing, showjumping and showing. Their latest arrival is Lauder, a beautiful gentle giant ex police horse who has settled very well and leads the other horses in every night into their stables.

When the charity moved here from Shropshire they started building the equestrian centre and have now created a wonderful facility with four arenas, forty acres of post and rail fenced 16

paddocks, twelve large airy indoor stables fitted with rubber flooring, staff facilities and a nature trail. Two permanent staff are employed who provide excellent care for the horses ably assisted by a dedicated group of volunteers and trustees. The setting allows horses to go out for walks on lanes and roads and enjoy the peaceful woodland and moorland safely. The charity’s team are delighted to have gained British Horse Society accreditation, being the first charity in Scotland to achieve this.

The horses are accompanied on site by ex battery hens Rachel, Rebekah, Susannah, Deborah, Ruth and Naomi who are loving their new lives and by part wildcat Aoife.

There are some real characters amongst the horses including Roisin who has beautiful blue eyes and loves to break fences; Cyd who is a natural leader but is always lost; Dave who is a successful ex racehorse and the star of the yard; Reaping who is a long-legged supermodel and adores Dave; Sasha who is always the model for

The charity’s Lark Rise project helps women with barriers to employment by developing transferable employability and life skills through equine facilitated learning and therapy. Women are particularly affected by the economic downturn and greatly benefit from the confidence and skills imparted by the programme. Victims of abuse also find it beneficial especially in the safe all female environment. All the above programmes can either be self funded or covered by Direct Payments.

COVID has impacted the charity greatly as activities had to either cease or adapt.

Programmes have now resumed with strict hygiene and isolation measures in place suitable for the outdoor setting. Visitors are welcome by prior arrangement and there is a small admission charge. demonstrating the digestive system; Ciara who is a little tubby; Fox who is a gentle old boy; Lydia who is looking amazing for her 36 years; Tango who keeps them all in order; and Donnay who constantly plots escape.

On arrival they all go through a rehabilitation programme and where possible are then placed on the rehoming scheme ready for going to new approved homes on a loan basis. Horses that cannot be rehomed remain at the charity for the remainder of their lives at the end of which they are laid to rest in the hilltop cemetery to continue to enjoy the view. Horses remaining at the charity can be sponsored through the charity’s sponsorship scheme.

Countrymens Club runs here, providing rural activities for older gentlemen with various conditions such as dementia or Parkinsons so the men can “be what they used to be”. As well as working with the horses the countrymen grow vegetables in special raised beds, complete woodwork projects such as making wooden games and enjoy a fly cup, a fancy piece and a blether.

Demand for horses to come to Touchdown Memorial Home for Horses has suddenly increased again with the onset of winter and due to people being unable to keep their horses through furlough or redundancy so the charity is operating a growing waiting list and still has all the costs of keeping the horses through winter: feed, haylage, vet, hoof trimming, dentist, worming, field maintenance, fertiliser, weedkiller, fences, staff and so on. If readers are able to help in any small way then all donations are greatly appreciated and go straight to the horses. Full details can be found on the charity’s website www.touchdownmhh.org or their Facebook page Touchdown Memorial Home for Horses. Also on the Facebook page is the online shop where craft items can be purchased from the charity including crochet horses and unicorns, leather horse tags and keyrings.

At the other end of the age spectrum the Blue Unicorns programme provides equine facilitated learning for children through activities with horses, learning stable management and enjoying horse agility on the specially constructed horse agility course. Not only does this teach responsible horse ownership and love of animals but it also encourages transferable skills such as confidence, teamwork, communication, literacy and numeracy.

17

TRAVEL

MAYNES COACHES 2020

is the year that none of us will forget. It is the year wherein, sadly, our director Gordon Mayne passed away. It was a great shock to not only our family and employees, but to the extended community as well. Gordon was a much respected businessman both locally and throughout our industry and his legacy will remain with us always. The Maynes Coaches and, more recently, Maynes Holidays, were some of Gordon’s greatest prides, and we will now thrive to ensure that the same level of service, which has been provided for 73 years, continues as his legacy.

2020 is also the year in which stay-cations became the newest trend across Scotland and the rest of the UK as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of the public’s desperation to get away, many people locally decided to begin exploring what is on their own doorstep. We believe the beauty that the UK has to offer is exceptional and a lot of it was

18

shadowed previously by the lust many had to go abroad.

Due to the disastrous effects of the pandemic, we found a void in the local market and decided to start up on our own, and from then Maynes Holidays was established.

The aim of our bespoke tour programme is to showcase what is on offer within a coach journey’s distance away. Whether it’s exploring the Highlands & Islands, travelling through Ireland or even visiting some of the many cities across the UK we feel we have captured a great selection of tours, helping customers spend their money within the UK, and encouraging our customers to embrace and be proud to be part of the UK.

T: 01542 831219 - www.maynes.co.uk & www.maynesholidays.co.uk

OUT AND ABOUT

Share your images of our wonderful area!

By tagging us and using #LifestyleMorayMagazine or email your images to eve@lifestylemoray.scot

Images..

YOUR

@discover_scottish_highlands

We positioned camera facing due north & sat back & used Fuji wi-fi remote control whilst sat in, Margo, our heated Campervan.

@graham.w.hendrey Searching for the perfect sunrise

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Oor Willie at Fochabers

by Alan Herbertson

@LifestyleMorayMagazine @LifestyleMorayMagazine

Penny Bridge by Darren Watts

Nothing beats an early swim in the North sea with your dogs! jeff_davey7

“We get it almost every night, it’s a supernatural delight.

Everybody’s dancin’ in the northern lights” Aberdeenshire,

jeff_davey7

Dolphin Centre at Spey Bay by Alan Herbertson

1921

rtisan

giftware

Graphic Design & Print, Web Design, Development & Hosting, Sublimation Printing, Giclée Art Prints

Wide range of Handmade gifts

Fine Arts Gallery

Self-service coffee shop

Personalised Gifts

Dedicated Dog Supplies

Printing Services

( by t h e award w i n n i n g dog s h op M illie’s Paws )

VISIT U S IN B U CKI E

12 East Church Street, Buckie, AB56 1AE ar tis angif t ware.co.uk | info@ar t isangif t ware. co. uk | 01542 833389

Tel: Tel:01466 01466 751328 751328 -- info@interior-inspirations.co.uk info@interior-inspirations.co.uk Opening times: Friday 9am Openingtimes : TuesdayTuesday - Friday 9am- 5pm Saturda y 9am--5pm 3pm Sunday•&Sunday Monday CLOS Saturday 9am - 3pm &ED Monday CLOSED

Call us on: 07791 441 865

We specialise in made to measure curtains, blinds, soft furnishings, apex/bay windows and remote controls.

EST. 2007 MANY BEAUTIFUL HOME WEACCESSORIES ARE NOW OPEN Candles, mirrors, pictures, throws

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY and cushions.

FOLLOWING GOV GUIDELINES. IDEAL CHRISTMAS GIFTS REACH US ON FACEBOOK, Visit the showroom EMAIL OR PHONE 24 Mid Street - Cornhill FACEBOOK

‘Interior Inspirations Cornhill Banff’

SEASONS GREETINGS FROM WATERGAW CERAMICS We would like to thank all our customers for supporting us through 2020 and wish everyone all the best for 2021.

Open Tues to Sat 10am to 5pm we have lots of festive pieces and ideas for gifts at 4 Chapel Street, Whitehills, Banff, AB45 2NB Tel: 01261 861090

www.watergaw.com Facebook: @WatergawCeramics Instagram: watergawceramics

We would like to wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

We close on 23rd Dec and open for our Jan sale on 4th Jan

EDGE ORNAMENTS

Beds • Sofas • Chairs Reclaimers • Dining Furniture Pictures Occasional Furniture Bedroom Furniture

FREE DELIVERY Within a 60 mile radius

NOW OPEN

10am - 4pm Monday - Saturday WE ARE FOLLOWING ALL GOV GUIDELINES

13 High Street, Buckie, AB56 1AL • Tel: 01542 839800

SUSTAINABLE FASHION

M

any people are familiar with the term ‘fast fashion’ and all of its negative connotations. In recent years, a new phrase has been coined as a direct reaction to this: ‘slow fashion’. The term ‘slow fashion’ is generally seen as a recent invention, but the movement has been around for longer than we think.

Slow fashion is the caring, considered and calm alternative to the hurried and harmful world of fast fashion – and it’s gaining considerable traction, not least as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Research has found that 15% of consumers in the US and Europe expect to buy more ecologically and socially sustainable clothing as a direct result of the over-consumerism and irresponsible practices that have been thrown into light through the Coronavirus crisis.

24

In addition, a post-lockdown report has found that 83% of consumers surveyed thought that clothes should be designed to last longer and be repairable. 58% bought fewer clothes during lockdown with 28% reusing and recycling more than normal. Interestingly, the same report found that 27% of Generation Z – the 18-24 year-olds who are generally associated with fast fashion – want to support socially and environmentally responsible brands.

What is fast fashion?

As the term suggests, everything about fast fashion is done at speed. Trends are quickly identified, garments are hurriedly made and rushed out to market, items are bought and delivered in the blink of an eye, then worn a couple of times before moving on to the next new thing.

It’s a phenomenon that’s largely associated with young, online only brands that update their

The speed of manufacture has an inevitable impact on the quality of garments produced.

The materials used are frequently cheap – often synthetic, the stitching suspect and the finishing poor. There’s just no time to quality check before the next new trend hits the machines.

The substandard quality of manufacture and finished product and the transient nature of the trends mean that all too often items are discarded after only a few wears. In the UK, 30% of discarded clothing ends up in landfill.

Pressure on price increases the risk of exploitation along the length of the supply chain, with growers and factory workers particularly vulnerable to poor working conditions and low wages. Corners are cut at every turn with potentially serious environmental effects.

What is slow fashion and why is it on the rise?

websites with hundreds of new products every week. Intense competition leads to customers who increasingly expect faster service and lower prices, but, worryingly, it has a knock-on effect.

The frenetic pace of fast fashion has potentially damaging effects from cradle to grave – from choice of raw materials and how these are sourced, through the treatment of suppliers and workers, manufacturing processes and impacts, and eventual disposal.

Lifestyle MAG

Growing awareness of the damage caused by fast fashion has led to the emergence of the slow fashion movement. Slow fashion is the opposite of fast fashion in every way. It’s about responsible sourcing, care of manufacture, quality of materials, and longevity of garment life. Again, research shows that the term ‘slow fashion’ generated over 90 million social impressions in 2019, as changing shopping behaviours started to take root.

Suppliers take care to understand the provenance of their stock and ensure that items are carefully made, building sustainable clothes that are made to last, often using natural materials with low environmental impacts of the process.

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As far as the customer is concerned, buying decisions are considered and unhurried. Time is taken to research the best options. Thought is given to how an item will complement an existing wardrobe. This often leads to the purchase of investment pieces, which may cost more, but are of a quality that is built to last, wear after wear. These pieces are frequently of a timeless design that can bypass fleeting fashion trends to remain relevant for years to come, to the extent that items may become heritage pieces that are passed down through generations.

And the movement is spreading. There’s increasing evidence that lockdown has led consumers to reconsider their approach to fashion to embrace a more sustainable process, collect more enduring pieces and curate a more capsule-based wardrobe.

What does this come down to? Perhaps the COVID-19 pandemic has sown a seed of awareness about humankind’s impact on the planet and our combined responsibility to rein in over-consumption and reduce global inequalities for the benefit of future generations.

The challenge, when things return to whatever the new normal will be is to maintain the profile of sustainable fashion in the face of what many envisage will be a fury of discounting as struggling companies fight for survival.

Research shows that a large percentage of consumers are looking forward to buying clothes again post-pandemic but it is also predicted that, particularly in the high end market many consumers will be looking for so-called “investment” pieces — minimalist, last-forever items — that feel more responsible given the state of the world.

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The House of Bruar, situated in rural Perthshire, is a strong advocate of slow fashion. Since the doors were first opened in 1995 the business has become Scotland’s premier independent country fashion retailer, bringing together an impressive collection of traditional Tweeds and cashmere

garments with the very latest in rural style to create a unique shopping experience that can now also be enjoyed online.

The House of Bruar stocks expansive ladieswear and menswear collections, sporting accessories and equipment, as well as a wide range for the home and kitchen. Amongst their range of country clothing you will find exquisitely made garments from Harris Tweed, Julie Dillon Knitwear, Fair Isle Knitwear and Heathergems.

Each and every business is committed to supplying the highest quality products which will last a lifetime and will never date.

Pitagowan, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry, PH18 5TW T: 01796 483236 • www.houseofbruar.ccom

Merry M

Christmas

C

James Rizza & Sons Ltd 31 Steven Road, Huntly, AB54 8SX Phone: 01466 792847 rizzas@btconnect.com

www.rizza.co.uk

THERE:STORE RE:STORE THE

zero waste shopping

D

MORAY'S ZERO WASTE REFILL SHOP

Ever thought about a waste-free Christmas?

At the Re:store you’ll find lots of low waste Christmas gift ideas, PLUS all the ingredients for your cake and pudding!

D ke

The return of the popular Christmas Cake in a Bag - all the dry ingredients you need to make a delicious Christmas cake.

0800 151 3188

VISIT US AT THE RE:STORE MORAY ON FACEBOOK FOR UPDATES AND INFO Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm • Closed Sunday & Monday Tel: 01343 815000 - 4 Queen Street • Lossiemouth • IV31 6NU

www.dogrobes.co.uk

CHRISTMAS GIFTS

W

e haven’t seen our usual influx of international visitors this year but it has been wonderful to welcome so many locals who have been discovering what is on their doorstep. We hope you will continue to pop in past, and make this a prospect even more inviting we have out some fantastic deals together just in time for Christmas!

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

w w w. c hiva s. com

We are also giving you the opportunity to book a private shopping slot so you can browse without distraction of keeping your distance from other shoppers, and get into the spirit with a Cosie Bosie cocktail and mince pie. You may not be able to travel to family or friends this year but we can help you send your love by shipping any gift bought in store, free of charge, within the UK. It will soon be time for the town to be lit up with Christmas cheer and the Extravaganza will surely be missed: however, it is so important that support for the excellent work the committee do is continued. So, we will hold a raffle in aid of the Keith Christmas Lights Fund, tickets available from our shop.

Here’s to a happy and healthy 2021. We look forward to welcoming our community, being part of the community and supporting the community throughout the year.

Merry Christmas from the Home of Chivas Team.

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FOODIE HAM

PER £50 Local food writer Ghillie Basan’s be autiful book is packed wi th delicious inspir ation for any keen cook. Cl assic Chivas Rega l 12 and a stylish apron comp letes the gift. Wo rth £67

TO BOOK A PRIVATE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING SLOT CALL 01542 783044

Pack of 6 Christmas cards showcasing some of our best Xmas adverts over the

Christmas Crackers: Chivas 5cl, cocktail recipe, hat & joke in each cracker WAS £40,

decades £5

NOW £25

ULTIS GIFT HAMPER £155

Award winning Ultis Blended Malt. Gift packed with six glasses, a water carafe and mini ice bucket, it makes an ideal gift or a shared dram very special. Worth £240

THE CHIVAS BLENDING KIT £30

Spend £40 or more on any Chivas Regal blended Scotch whisky and receive 2 1 glasses & jug worth £3

FREE!

Gift Guide 2020 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AVWMu-4r2A9wekiOC6wta_ Lifestyle MAG 6JR1yJw6yn/view?usp=drivesdk

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CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS DRINK OUR BRANDS RESPONSIBLY CHIVAS ESPRESSO MARTINI 50ml Chivas Regal Extra 25ml Fresh espresso 15ml Kahlua 12.5ml vanilla syrup Add all ingredients to shaker with ice, shake hard, double strain into a martini glass.

Garnish with 3 coffee beans.

Chivas Extra 70cl - £37

CHIVAS VANITY 55ml Chivas 12 15ml Kingston Black Apple Aperitif 20ml lemon juice 20ml sugar syrup 15ml egg white 4 fresh raspberries 1 dash Peychaud Bitters Add all ingredients to shaker and dry shake.

Then add ice and shake. Strain into a coupette glass.

Chivas Regal 12yo 70cl - £27

WINTER SPICE Fill glass with ice and pour over: 25ml Monin Mulled Fruit syrup 50ml cloudy apple juice 15ml fresh lime Stir, top up with soda and garnish with dried orange.

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Don’t worry, we didn’t forget the whisky!

Skipping alcohol doesn’t mean you can’t have something great to drink. Cheers!

FINE WINES, MALT WHISKIES AND BEERS 96-98 High Street, Aberlour, AB38 9QA info@speylarder.com

www.speylarder.com

COOKERY BOOKS, QUALITY GIFTS & LINENS

CHRISTMAS TREATS & GIFT S FOR ALL THE FA MILY!

Tel: 01340 871243 Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri & Sat 9am to 5pm. Closed Wed & Sun

At Spey Larder the hamper is the pe rfect Christmas gift fo r family & friends ..

Visit our charming Victorian Shop in the heart of Whisky Country...

SCOTTISH & CONTINENTAL FINE FOODS PICNIC LUNCHES AND GOURMET SANDWICHES

GIFT HAMPERS AVAILABLE ALL YEAR

The Gallery in Aberlour & Spey Sport Bespoke Picture Framing Service with 25 years experience

Beautiful Pictures • Books • Jewellery • Hats • Handbags & Purses • Gifts & Cards Lovely Lampshades • Whisky Barrel Furniture • Candles & Soaps Fishing & Shooting Accessories

Warm wishes for a safe Christmas and we hope 2021 is a better year for us all 79 HIGH STREET, ABERLOUR, AB38 9QB • T: 01340 871457 M: 07766 704 910 or 07990 551 221 The Gallery in Aberlour & Spey Sport

RECIPES

Crispy Golden Roast Potatoes Potatoes Stock Butter Thyme Goose Fat 1.

Par boil your potatoes with some stock, knob of butter and a couple of sprigs of Thyme.

2.

While these are getting ready put a baking tray filled with goose fat in a preheated oven at 180’c, this needs to get nice and hot ready for your potatoes.

3.

Drain your potatoes and season liberally with sea salt and cracked black pepper.

(Now this is the bit you need to be careful with. The potatoes need to go straight into the oil hot from the oven, the potatoes will contain moisture so take care not to splash the oil back on yourself.)

4.

5.

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Put into the oven for 15 / 20 min’s, take them out and turn.

The Perfect Yorkshire Pudding For this recipe you will need your favourite coffee mug, a muffin tray, mixing bowl, whisk, wooden spoon, ladle, measuring jug and a sieve.

Pinch of Salt Pinch of White Pepper Beef Dripping, Lard or Cooking Oil Plain Flour Eggs Full Fat Milk

1.

You will need to take a level mug (your favourite coffee mug) of plain flour and sieve into the mixing bowl.

2.

Fill the mug to the same level as the flour was with whole eggs, take a fork and beat the eggs. Add to the flour.

Pop them back in the oven for another 15 minutes.

This should give you an all over golden crispy roast potato perfect for any Christmas Dinner.

3.

Fill the mug again to the same level as the flour and the eggs, preferable a high fat content milk however, semi skimmed will work. Add this to the mixture.

4.

Add salt and pepper.

5.

Whisk thoroughly until all the ingredients are blended and you have what looks to be a pancake batter.

6.

Transfer from the mixing bowl into a measuring jug passing it through a sieve this will ensure any lumps of flour are taken out.

7.

Allow this mixture to rest in fridge for 30 minutes.

8.

While the mixture is chilling, you need to get your muffin tray and place a sliver of dripping or lard enough to coat the bottom of the mould. Put this in the oven and place it as high as it can go. Get that bad boy smoking.

9.

Once the oil is smoking hot, now is the time to let the magic happen. Get your batter out of the fridge and give it a gentle stir. Carefully fill each muffin mould just over the half way. You will need to work quickly and carefully as the oil will start the cooking process immediately. Get them back in the oven. (Don’t place too high in the oven as once these beauties rise they’ll stick to the top of the oven.) Drop your oven down to about 200’c, leave them for 25 minutes. DO NOT TRY AND SNEAK A PEEK, OPEN THE DOOR. RESIST THE TEMPTATION. Trust me it will be worth it.

10. Get them out and enjoy!!

These can be made the day before as they will only take a minute or two to reheat on Christmas Day while your oven is full of everything else.

Lifestyle MAG

How to get everyone to eat Brussels Sprouts!

Here’s how The Bearded Chef Family turn their sprouts into a family favourite.

For this you will need a frying pan, chopping board, sharp knife and a wooden spoon.

Brussels Sprouts Bacon Chilli Flakes Crushed Garlic Olive Oil Dash of Butter Salt & Pepper 1.

Take the left over bacon or trimmings from your pigs in blankets and finely dice. Take your sprouts and cut them in half and to the best of your ability slice as thinly as possible.

2.

Take your frying pan and heat a little olive oil, once the oil is hot add the crushed garlic. You want to get the garlic to a lightly golden colour. You do not want to take the garlic too far and allow to darken as this will taste bitter.

3.

Once the garlic has started to change colour add your bacon. As your bacon starts to get some colour, add in your sprouts. Now you are going to stir fry this, adding in a pinch of chilli flakes, seasoning and butter. Allow 5 / 7 minutes of a stir fry.

This makes a great side dish and goes with a multitude of meals. A great way of using up left overs. You can also add in left over roast potatoes for a twist on a seasonal bubble and squeak.

The Bearded Chef HQ 104 South Street, Elgin, Moray, IV30 1JB Tel : 01343 200240 | www.the-beardedchef.com

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MUSIC

DANNY MORTIMER

I

have been writing my own music for quite a while now. My latest composition started as a suggestion – more of a joke really - from my dad. Why not write a Christmas song?

We both thought it was a hilarious idea, as the type of music that I usually write wouldn’t ‘fit’ into your stereotypical Christmas song. Having suggested it once, he tried again the following year and, like a dog with a bone, wouldn’t give up. Then it wasn’t until last year that I actually sat down and began to seriously think about it, but I couldn’t get my head around how a “Danny Mortimer Christmas Song” would go, let alone what it would sound like.

34

The idea got shelved and then BOOM, 2020 happened! We were actually beginning work on recording drums for my third solo album the week before lock down happened. With loads of free time on my hands over the next few

months, I began writing more and recording small demos in my little home studio. By the time August rolled around, one of my favourite bands (The Goo Goo Dolls) announced that they were going to be releasing a Christmas album.

It was kind of a lightning bolt moment, “if they can release a full Christmas album, surely I could figure out how to write my own song?!”. It also kind of felt like this year could mean “it’s OK to try something new or out of the ordinary” as this year has been anything, but ordinary.

I began working on the music for my own Festive song. However it was not plain sailing.

Everything that I was playing I just couldn’t connect with and, in all honesty, felt kind of boring. I then came up with a melody that had a much faster pace, much happier sounding.

There was something about this demo that had the feeling of what a “Christmas Song” by me could sound like. An old friend (Jack Nicolson) recorded the drums for me as he has recorded drums for me in the past and has all the gear at home. We spoke a little about certain parts of the song, discussed what the drums could do in each part and I left it in his hands. He didn’t let me down and came up with the ideal foundation for the song. One drum track back to me and it was perfect.

I then took the drum files and worked on the rest of the track, amending the lyrics a few times, in my little home studio. Christmas songs are usually quite cheesy, they’re supposed to be a bit of fun. My music can sometimes be enigmatic, leaving the listener to make up his own mind, so it was quite a challenge for me to change my writing style and point of view. As a songwriter (and I use that term loosely) this is the first song people will hear from me where it will be blatantly obvious what the lyrics are about.

Listening to “classic” Christmas songs, they all mention certain aspects of the time of year, so I knew I would have to do the same. Trying to work as many Christmas clichés and references into a song as possible, without it becoming too cheesy, was tough to work around.

It has taken a while, but at the end of the day, it’s a bit of fun in what has really been a strange

year. During lock down, I covered David Bowie’s “Heroes”, mainly to experiment with some of the recording gear I had newly acquired. I released the song and the music video together, inviting people to send in footage of how they had been spending their time during lock down.

The video took off from there and the response was incredible, so much so that it ended up on BBC Scotland’s TV Show “The Nine”.

With the Christmas song, I had a similar idea in mind, inviting people to send in any photos or videos from Christmas over the years. My thinking being, everybody is going to have a favourite Christmas memory or photo from over the years, so it could be something special for this year.

If people enjoyed the track and they felt that they wanted to purchase it, in my mind it made sense to give proceeds to a local charity.

The song is now finished and was released on December 1st, with all the proceeds being donated to Children 1st.

Please download it now and show your support. Merry Christmas! https:// dannymortimer.bandcamp.com/track/ its-christmas-time-again-can-you-feelthe-snow?fbclid=IwAR03oXzwPtN5S_ www.facebook.com/dannymortimermusic

www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvErIWFypkg 35

MUSIC

“One of the true joys of being an accompanist is sharing musical experiences with a vast array of talented and gifted musicians. It serves to influence, inspire and motivate me and allows creative expression regardless of situation.�

36

Ron Jappy www.ronjappy.com

Vincular : (verb) – to bind or to link (adjective) – signifying unity

A

n unusual word used in both mathematics and anatomy to show that items are to be considered together.

This is exactly what Ron Jappy has done with his debut album. Diverging from the norm, Vincular celebrates the role of the accompanist.

Hailing from Findochty in the North East coast of Scotland, we first heard of Ron - an extremely accomplished and respected musician - through an article in Lifestyle’s October 2019 issue. Starting off his musical journey as a fiddle player, Ron is now highly sought after as an arranger, fiddler, guitarist, and pianist.

In a career lasting almost a decade, Ron has performed extensively throughout the world with established artists such as; Claire Hastings, Iona Fyfe, Jamie Smith’s Mabon, Joy Dunlop, Mànran, Rachel Hair, Skerryvore and the Scott Wood Band. Vincular is the culmination of his musical journey so far. The premise of this project was to create a record coordinated, arranged and drawn together from the viewpoint of an accompanist. Enhancing a work and shaping its musical identity is something Ron is very passionate about and, through his role as an accompanist, he has brought together a collection of musicians to create an album of unique perspective.

"One of the true joys of being an accompanist is sharing musical experiences with a vast array of talented and gifted musicians. It serves to influence, inspire and motivate me and allows creative expression regardless of situation.” says Ron. “This record sets out to convey how different styles and genres have influenced me over my career, bringing together some of my favourite musicians with whom I've worked through my role as an accompanist”.

“Being an accompanist is amazing, it truly is.

I feel so lucky to be able to play with such a diverse range of incredibly talented musicians,

Lifestyle MAG

and seeing how this can influence and shape you as a player. This is where the idea for this project came from. I wondered what it would be like, and how it would sound to bring some of these skilled professionals together, all with their own ideas and creative outlooks, but to have myself at the core, as the continual musical thread that would link everybody together”.

The album was officially released on the 4th December and contains 10 unique and original songs, featuring the talents of a diverse collection of musicians : • Ron Jappy - Acoustic Guitar, Fiddle (tracks 5 & 7), Organ, Piano (track 10), Rhodes • Ainsley Hamill - Vocals • Alice Allen – Cello • Alistair Iain Paterson - Piano (tracks 5 & 7) • Euan Malloch - Electric Guitar • Grant McFarlane - Accordion • Innes Watson - Viola • James Lindsay - Double Bass • Joy Dunlop - Stepdancing • Lissa Robertson - Violin • Mark Scobbie - Drums & Percussion • Mhairi Mackinnon - Fiddle (tracks 1, 2, 3 & 9) • Scott Wood - Bagpipes, Whistle, Piano (track 8) 37 • Simon Phillips - Bass Guitar

LOCAL HERITAGE

A MONUMENTAL ACHIEVEMENT IN BANFFSHIRE HERITAGE

A

team of dedicated volunteers from Portsoy Salmon Bothy have had their efforts rewarded with the publication of a booklet which will be welcomed by family historians worldwide with Fordyce connections.

Back in the summer of 2015 work began on recording the inscriptions on gravestones in Fordyce kirkyard, in association with Aberdeen & North East Scotland Family History Society. The initial transcription phase was followed by further painstaking work to check the accuracy of each record, with volunteers turning out at regular intervals and in every weather.

Alison Smith, genealogy coordinator at the Salmon Bothy said: “This publication represents a tremendous achievement by dozens of local volunteers who contributed to the project.”

“The results will be of immense benefit to family historians everywhere who are unable to make a personal visit to Fordyce. The newly produced booklet means that anyone whose ancestors were recorded on gravestones in Fordyce kirkyard can now read the full inscription on each stone without having to leave home.”

Despite careful planning, the project was not completed without a few hiccups.

A chance beam of sunshine brought to light a surprisingly recent stone which had been gradually enveloped by the dense branches of a 38

yew tree. Then, with initial readings already taken, a long drought revealed the existence of previously unknown stones lying beneath the turf.

Later on a violent summer storm felled two massive trees, resulting in the destruction of several stones. Fortunately their inscriptions had already been preserved, but such events highlight the importance of recording these memorials.

This is the third booklet on burial grounds produced by Portsoy Salmon Bothy, the others recording inscriptions from Portsoy Old Burial Ground and Portsoy Cemetery.

The new booklet is available to purchase from the Salmon Bothy online shop at https:// salmonbothy.org/product/the-kirkyard-offordyce/ Portsoy Salmon Bothy is located within a former working salmon house which was restored and houses a museum, a base for family history research and a fully functional community space and venue.

The museum and family history base is currently closed but Upstairs at the Bothy is available for hire for meetings, workshops and classes.

The Salmon Bothy is run by volunteers as part of Portsoy Community Enterprise. The group receives no public funding towards operational costs, all costs are met through donations and venue hire charges which are kept as minimal as possible.

More information about the Salmon Bothy can found at www.salmonbothy.org

WELLBEING

Wellbeing Writing Walks connect Moray folk this October

M

oray Wellbeing Hub CIC has been instrumental in increasing the ‘mental wealth’ of people in and around Moray for over 3 years through their community events, peer networks and outreach programs. The latest exciting and innovative activity to come from the Hub is the ‘Wellbeing Writing Walks’, which have so far taken place in Culbin, Elgin, Aberlour and Cullen.

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Working in partnership with the NHS Health Walk Coordinator, Moray Wellbeing Hub wanted to try out a new approach for community

members in Moray to enjoy the great outdoors and to connect with others, inspiring self-confidence, wellbeing, and creativity.

Participants would meet at the designated locations, walk through the beautiful autumnal surroundings, and enjoy ‘sit spot’ activities facilitated by the group leaders to observe the views around them. Then, where the mood took them, creative writing skills were explored either as a group or individually. Imaginations were ignited from cues such as Forest, Sea, River and Mountain.

The walks, supported by funding from YouChoose3 participatory budgeting, provided attendees the opportunity to connect with the beautiful Moray landscape and feel more hopeful and less isolated during these challenging times, through meaningful and empowering peer conversations.

Stories, personal journeys, and reflections of past and present were shared naturally and comfortably. By sharing in the sheer beauty of nature, it was clear that people felt more connected and comfortable through a common denominator. ‘The group company and conversation was the influencing factor to my fresh and bouncy behaviour’ said one attendee.

‘I didn’t feel confident going out before but the walks have given me confidence in driving my buggy’ said another.

Using senses to explore and experience nature is a proven way to increase a sense of fulfilment and wellbeing and these walks are no different. “Walking, chatting, reflecting not only encouraged us to really sense the beauty of nature it sparked childhood memories such as the colour and shapes of fallen leaves looking like a 1970’s carpet” mused one attendee.

Others drew comparison between music and nature, and pondered the wonder of our natural environment and how it coexists so closely with our built environment. Some participants

Lifestyle MAG

took part in all four walks and even camped overnight to be sure to be able to attend. It was certainly a great success and we can look forward to seeing more.

Follow Moray Wellbeing Hub on Facebook to hear about the next Wellbeing Walks.

41

HEALTH

LAURA MCNALLY Social media: @lauramcnallypt Email: lauramcnallypt@gmail.com Call: 07772187313

SEASONAL STRESS

T

his has been the strangest of years. Social media memes have capitalised on this, filling the media channels with quick-fire videos and pithy one-liners mocking the year and its events. Whilst these memes do make light of what’s happened to the world this year, they are relatable and we feel helpless to do anything but to limit our social contact which is so important for good health and wellbeing. It’s been a stressful time.

‘fight or flight’ response from caveman days.

That response isn’t appropriate in today’s world especially when the stress is over the long term, as with Coronavirus, and when we are chronically stressed it leads to side effects which may present in ways such as weight loss or gain, exhaustion, alcohol dependency and anger.

Add dark nights and Christmas on top of chronic stress and your proverbial cup is likely to be overflowing with dread.

Everyone experiences stress at some point in their lives. This year has drawn greater attention to stress and many of you will no doubt have heightened anxiety and even developed depression and other psychological illnesses.

Now the prospect of a lonely Christmas looms large and small choices become a big deal.

In Manchester, one study showed that psychological distress doubles the risk of developing back pain, and once you’ve had it, studies show that up to 75% of back pain sufferers relapse at another time.

In humans stress leads to the release of the chemical Cortisol which contributes to your 42

Stress can influence your sleep patterns, your normal routines and your relationships leaving us exhausted and so we turn to coping mechanisms like alcohol, food, smoking, and

social media. It can affect your appetite, often making obesity more likely. With obesity comes greater risk of depression, osteoarthritis and cardiovascular diseases. Stress also encourages smoking, which we know significantly increases the risk of not only cancers but breathing-related diseases like COPD and bone density loss.

But it’s not all bad news for these seemingly gloomy times. As psychologist Kelly McGonigal demonstrates in her Ted Talk, stress is bad for you, but only if you believe stress is bad for you. This is difficult to believe, but there is logic behind Kelly’s statement.

When you plough on despite stress, you become courageous, and when you find comfort in or with others, you create resilience.

Framed in this way, stress is a good thing. And the science backs it up.

My intention in this article was to share some Christmas de-stress tips with you and Kelly’s revelation forms my first:

TIP 1: INSTEAD OF LABELLING YOURSELF AS STRESSED, CONSIDER YOURSELF COURAGEOUS. YOU ARE. But I’m a personal trainer, not a psychologist, so why do I focus on stress?

As an exercise referral and back pain specialist, the vast majority of my clients have been chronically stressed. The label and feeling of ‘stress’ is a barrier to good health and it’s my job to help my clients overcome barriers so they can achieve their health and wellbeing goals.

With that in mind, I wanted to share some stress tips I’ve learned through my work, research and training.

TIP 2: GET MORE SLEEP TV doctor Rangan Chatterjee says in his book The Four Pillar Plan that ‘we’re in the middle of a sleep deprivation epidemic’. Chronic deprivation of sleep, which is closely related to blood pressure, can lead to hallucinations and

Lifestyle MAG

even fits. Inadequate sleep, even very slight reductions over a short time can disrupt blood sugar to pre-diabetic levels.

We now take 1 to 2 hours sleep less per night than we did sixty years ago and this is thought to cost the British economy up to £40bn per year. We all put off sleep, staying up to watch ‘I’m a celebrity’ or for a last scroll through social media.

No other animal deliberately puts-off sleep without legitimate gain.

Professor Matthew Walker, internationally renowned sleep expert, used brain scanning techniques to demonstrate a link between lack of sleep and psychiatric illness, and to demonstrate that healthy individuals who experience disrupted sleep can experience a neurological pattern of brain activity similar to that of some psychiatric conditions. Further to this, Dr Allison Harvey at the University of California has demonstrated that sleep can be used as a therapeutic tool for anxiety and depression among other disorders.

Moreover, those extra few Christmas pounds manifesting on the waist are a source of stress for some and sleep is the first step to helping curb cravings. Your brain craves carbs and if you are mentally or physically exhausted it will be almost impossible to resist the lure of sweet treats.

TIP 3: ENJOY FOOD Many of us worry about overeating at Christmas and the excess weight we will carry into the new year. Some of us have enjoyed an indulgent lockdown and ‘treated’ ourselves to more than we might normally. In this way, food can create stress. The more restrained you attempt to be, the more you will focus on food and the more you might overeat.

In general stress creates a feeling of vulnerability and this can manifest as overeating. If you’re busy, you may fall into the habit of using ready 43

meals or take aways eaten while distractedly working or helping the kids with their routine.

Try to set time aside to eat so that you have space in the day to enjoy your food. Make it a social affair (even if on Zoom) and above all focus on your enjoyment of eating tasty food, without guilt.

TIP 4: PLAY MORE Informal activity burns more calories and creates opportunities to engage socially with others. This is key to positive mental health.

George Bernard Shaw said ‘we don’t stop playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing!’ Playing could be with your kids, dogs, or even on your own.

We spend a great deal of time focussing on formal exercise for weight loss in the gym but there’s so much more opportunity to ‘play’ out there. From cycling to work, to a brisk walk, to parking at the very back of a car park, to working out in your living room there are countless ways in which to keep active.

TIP 5: VOLUNTEER If you’re going to be alone at Christmas, consider volunteering, such as befriending the elderly or vulnerable. This has the effect of creating social interaction for you, and the knowledge that you have contributed to others’ wellbeing. It’s incredibly rewarding. You might alternatively like to volunteer for environmental causes or estates who need practical support that is easily socially distanced whilst keeping you physically active with the added benefit of a natural connection and natural sunlight.

TIP 6: WORKOUT

44

The benefits of a good workout are reduced stress; social interaction; better sleep; more motivation to eat well; reduced risk of musculoskeletal problems; increased mental

resilience; improved brain function; improved blood flow; increased response time...the list is endless!

Workouts can be taken from a book, from a website, from youtube and of course in your gym. Taking an example from Captain Tom, the cheapest, easiest workout is a brisk walk from your front door.

NHS Exercise guidelines recommend physical activity every day, including: •

Strengthening activities (with a little extra weight) at least twice per week;

•

150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week;

•

Reducing time spent in sedentary activities (such as sitting at the desk or watching TV)

It’s certain that this holiday period is going to be like no other but there’s plenty you can do to look after yourself. You don’t need anything expensive, trendy or new to have an extra special holiday period this year. You already have everything you need and if you already feel stressed, remember, you are courageous.

If you want to take a bit more time to look up some of the things I’ve mentioned, here are a few handy links.

Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year.

LOCAL WALKS www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/get-walking/walkus/health-walks-wales-and-scotland

BEFRIENDING ORGANISATIONS www.befriending.co.uk/directory/?region=6

EXERCISE GUIDELINES www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/

TED TALK: HOW TO MAKE STRESS YOUR FRIEND /www.ted.com/talks/kelly_mcgonigal_how_to_ make_stress_your_friend

For all your health, beauty and pharmaceutical needs

TRAVEL VACCINES KEEP SAFE& IMMUNISATIONS

For all

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Booked your Holidays yet? Make sure you know what vaccines you MASKS, HAND GEL ANDl n e e d s come in and ask for details. y o u rneed h e a l t before h , b e a u you t y a ngo. d p hIfa travelling r m a c e u t i c a abroad

GOOD ADVICE ALL AVAILABLE. FLU JABS ARE STILL AVAILABLE

Health Care and Advice DUE TO THE VOLUME, WE WOULD APPRECIATE

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WE ARE MAKING DELIVERIES IF NECESSARY. Flu is still about!

It isSTILL not too late to get a Flu jab, call in or request a home visit if necessary.

ME AND FRA O OT IF YOU COULD ARRANGE COLLECTION OF YOUR TRAVEL VACCINES IMMUNISATIONS TRAVELPH

VISIT YOUR LOCAL PHARMACY CONTACT YOUR LOCAL PHARMACY S RIE ND PRESCRIPTIONS EITHER PERSON OR BY d SUyet? Make sure Booked youran Holidays youIN know what vaccines

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you need before you go. If travelling abroad come in and ask A FRIEND OR RELATIVE. for details.

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digitalalong photolab for all Come along to Bishopmill Come Bishopmill DIGITAL Iftoyou are planning to get away for Christmas or PICTURES AVAILABLE INSTANTLY!!

DIGITAL PICTURES your photographic Pharmacy’s digital photolab Pharmacy’s digital photolab even a business trip you need to be organised. for all your photographic requirements.

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requirements. you need to book. The ideal scenario would be

20 North Bishopmill, ElginIV30 IV304EF 4EF•• 01 01343 547374 // 547393 547393 • bishopmillpharmacy.co.uk 20 North St, St, Bishopmill, Elgin, 343 547374 bishopmillpharmacy.co.uk

a flight later in the week to allow you to have and receive the results within the 72 20test North Bishopmill, ElginIV30 IV304EF 4EF•• 01 01343 547374 // 547393 547393 20your North St, St, Bishopmill, Elgin, 343 547374 hour window most countries/airlines require.

Check with your airline or tour operator what their requirements are and remember although the labs are operating seven days, couriers don’t operate on Sundays.

CHRISTMAS GIFTS IN-STORE

Testing over the Christmas and New Year holidays is limited due to Royal Mail opening hours.

Please contact Bishomill Pharmacy if you would like to discuss the details.

CALL: 01343 547374 / 547393 20 NORTH STREET • BISHOPMILL • ELGIN • IV30 4EF

•b

FERGUS EWING MSP

Agriculture Industry

T

hroughout this difficult year our people across the agriculture industry have continued to work tirelessly to put food on the table for the people of our nation and they have our heartfelt thanks.

As Cabinet Secretary for the Rural Economy and Tourism in the Scottish Government we want to provide them with the financial support and certainty that they need to continue their work and support our wider rural economy. We have been the first part of the UK to start getting 2020 monies out to farmers and crofters. Our intention with this strategy is to make payments at the same time or, in some cases, earlier than last year.

It is important to note that we set this strategy with confidence that we will meet these timelines but there are some risks to delivery that remain.

The ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic remains a challenge as well as the disruptive effect of a disorderly Brexit. With so many unknowns and the potential for a no deal Brexit, the strategy may be at risk if we need to deliver emergency support at short notice. But we will do everything we can to ensure farmers and crofters get their support payments on time.

The food and drink industry is one of the true success stories of Scotland’s economy, with exports worth a record £6.7 billion in 2019.

Across the country, particularly in many of our rural areas, the sector creates highly paid, highly skilled jobs and contributes directly to the public purse in taxes. It has also been one of the hardest hit by COVID-19.

46

Food and drink businesses have shown remarkable resilience and innovation in responding to the pandemic, from finding new routes to market themselves or in the actions

they have taken to support their workforce and keep food on our tables.

However, in addition to the many challenges presented by COVID-19, we now need to prepare for the disruption and uncertainty the end of the Brexit transition period will bring in just six weeks’ time.

The Scottish Government is providing £5 million to support a food and drink recovery plan to be delivered to allow the industry to work together on fairer, greener and sustainable solutions to the challenges that lie ahead.

Scotland is home to much of the world’s greatest produce and we must do all we can to protect and promote it. And we can all play our part. We will all be stocking up on food for the festive period – if you can, please try to support Scottish produce and local suppliers, shops and businesses. We all need to “love local” and rally together as families and communities to get through these tough times.

The Scottish Government’s recently refreshed Ready Scotland website (ready.scot) provides a range of information for anyone looking for support during the coronavirus pandemic, as well as advice on preparing for winter weather.

It also provides guidance for those who wish to help out those around them, whether on an individual basis or through volunteering with local community groups or charities.

In any year, winter weather can be a challenge for many of us, and this year it will come while we are already managing the effects that COVID-19 is having on so many aspects of our lives.

As we have seen in previous winters, and as we saw so clearly during our lockdown in the spring and in the months since, the strength and kindness of our communities and our desire to look out for our neighbours is one of our greatest resources.

These support networks are no less important now than they were in the spring, especially to older, disabled and at risk people, and those

who are on their own or feeling lonely. While we can’t visit each other as we might have done in previous years, a phone call or a text can go a long way, and there are a wide range of services standing ready to provide support.

I wish all readers a very happy Christmas.

Fergus Ewing MSP CABINET SECRETARY FOR RURAL ECONOMY AND TOURISM

01542 888457

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Lifestyle MAG

A Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year to all our customers!

47

Closing dates: 25th JANUARY 2021 • Email: competitions@lifestylemoray.scot Sticking with the musicians, Ron Jappy has kindly offered a signed copy of his debut album. This is not to be missed.

I love receiving all your emails and postcards over the months. I receive many lovely messages and some very interesting postcards.

Once again we have some wonderful prizes available……….

A fabulous meal for 4 is up for grabs courtesy of The Bearded Chef at HQ in Elgin to be enjoyed by the end of March 2021. I’m sure this is going to be very popular.

Have you read Laura McNally’s Feature on page 42? How do you fancy your own 30 min PT session with Laura? That’s what’s on offer. This can either be delivered ‘at home’ or over zoom* terms and conditions apply.

Finally a £40 voucher from Torta by Katalin to treat someone special or enjoy yourself who can resist these mouth watering fabulous cakes.

Good luck everyone!

Win an exclusive to Lifestyle T-shirt. This will be printed with Danny Mortimer’s charity Christmas Song Title It’s Christmas time again (Can you feel the Snow?) Courtesy of Dallas Designs.

COMPETITION CODES CHEF MEAL Two course meal for 4 people to be redeemed by the end of March at The Bearded Chef HQ Elgin.

DANNYT An exclusive to Lifestyle T-Shirt from Danny Mortimer ‘It’s Christmas time again (Can you feel the Snow)’.

VINCULAR A signed copy of Ron Jappy’s debut album ‘Vincular’.

LAURA PT 30 min personal training session with Laura McNally at your home or by Zoom*.

TORTA £40 voucher for a beautiful cake or afternoon tea made by the lovely Katalin of Torta by Katalin based in Kinloss.

Congratulations to our Oct/Nov winners. We receive hundreds of responses and love your letters and emails... Keep ‘em coming. Who knows...

It could be you next time.

48

Email competitions@lifestylemoray.scot with your name, address and contact number or send a postcard to: Lifestyle Magazine, 5 Green Lane, Newmill, Keith AB55 6NX - Remember your competition codes and please send multiple entries on one card.

Terms & conditions: All Lifestyle competition prizes are kindly donated by Lifestyle advertisers.

There is no entry fee, one e-mail or postcard with the relevant codes is all that is necessary.

Winners are chosen at random by a computer generated programme. There is no cash alternative available. Names of winners will be published in the following issue.

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